Bringhurst Blog

Alaska Favorites Part 3 you're gonna love this one

2010-08-04T00:17:00.000-07:00

So my parents convinced me to leave my kids behind and head on an adventure.....a bear adventure. I remembered a song from girls camp "Goin' on a bear hunt...I'm not afraid".....that song lied! We headed to a place called AnAn. I asked our guide if the island was inhabited. He said "Well, it's the Mainland so yeah, Dallas is inhabited"....jerk..... The only thing we passed by were some canoes and we were told that it was a place where troubled kids go. They have to fend for themselves and kill/cook anything they want to eat. Boy did I feel comforted.

Looks pretty isolated...even for the Mainland.

Here is our group. Unaware of what lies ahead.

Hi Mr. Black Bear. Now I know why Aunt Patty and Aunt Cindy made me go right after the guide with bear spray and a shotgun. The bear kept walking toward us and then on up the hill. I think we bored him....either that or he was stalking us.

Oh, there is another one walking on our path..doesn't he know that this is a people path. Thank goodness he already has his lunch.

No my zoom isn't that good. We were really close to bears, all day long. Sometimes we had to walk out of our 3 foot fence (not joking) to go to the bathroom. That hole in the door isn't for ventilation...it's to watch to make sure a bear wasn't near. My cousin's son was in there and had to stay in for a while because a bear decided to mosey on by. Hopefully Josh went #1 and not #2.

I wish I could put up more pics and videos but I think I am the only one who would be entertained. We did see one catch a fish and we quietly cheered after witnessing how long it can take them. I cannot overemphasize the beauty of our surroundings. Here we were in the middle of nowhere (but apparently on the Mainland) with a river chuck full of salmon, watching bears climb trees and catch fish, as bald eagles are swooping around screeching in the cool air. I was blessed that day to see God's beauty and be a small part of a big world.

Alaska Favorites Part 2

2010-08-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

I may have to come back to Skagway but for now I will move on. We caught our next ferry where we had state rooms. It was definately a plus because I was with all 5 kids and no husband. I had family there to help but it was difficult physically and emotionally. It was nice to have a place to crash and where Evan could be free. We headed to Sitka along some of the most gorgeous sights ever imaginable. Cruise ships can not go through the Narrows because it is, well....too narrow. Most people who see Alaska do not get to see the amazing scenes that we saw. Completely breathtaking! They call the ferries a Poor Man's Cruise...we were the fortunate ones.

Sitka is such a beautiful island, I wish we had more than a few hours, but we were at the mercy of the ferry schedule. There is a neat park called Totem park where several Totem's are along a beautiful nature trail. It was nice to get to stretch our legs on a beautiful hike.

Yes, we had several whale sightings, however I always had to drag Evan around with me watching over a toddler who loves his freedom...and I am speaking of the run away from Mom kind of freedom. It was hard to get my camera out and watch for the breaching while holding on to his hand ...or leg or hood or ear. Here is a mama swimming with her baby...see it's not just me. She probably wants to hang with the gals but has to stay and swim with her little guy.

Apparantly he loves his freedom too!!

Alaska Favorites Part 1

2010-08-03T23:44:00.000-07:00

My first day was filled with a lot of traveling and a beautiful ferry ride to Skagway. I'll begin in Skagway for this portion. I was really looking forward to this port because of the history involved...me loves a good history tour. Briefly, Skagway was kinda a nothing area with mostly natives when GOLD was discovered in the later part of 1890's. Gold was discovered in the Klondike some 500 miles away and ships began pouring into Skagway. It quickly jumped to a population of 30,000. The crossing of White Pass was treacherous to say the least. These men had to cross it at least 60 times bringing up all of the supplies needed because Canada would not allow them in unless they had 1 ton of supplies so they wouldn't starve through the winter. They quickly built a train to help bring supplies up to the Yukon called the White Pass and Yukon Route. I was excited to ride this train and see what these prospectors went through. The countryside was gorgeous. I was blown away at the lengths they went in search of fortune. It was sad to realize that by the time most of these men arrived, the gold was gone.

I had to sepia this photo to give it the period feel.

Halley playing a little peek-a-boo.

There is so much history in Skagway. I loved every minute of it and wished I had more time there.

Wheeler Family Reunion

2010-08-03T15:36:00.000-07:00

This picture is proof that we live in God's country. Shane's mother's family was in charge of their family reunion and since the majority of them live in Yreka they decided to hold it in Lake Siskiyou just outside of Mt. Shasta City.

Aunt Do was in charge of decorations..of coarse...and we had a western theme. Halley...you are a gomer!

That's right! Hal caught a fish. We went for a boat ride and while trolling Halley asked if she could fish. Five minutes later we realized she had caught a fish.... a 16 inch rainbow. She was so excited and grossed out at the same time. She proudly walked up the boat ramp holding her fish informing all the the fisherman that she just caught a fish. They were all jealous.

Here is Dona and Glen and the family that they are so proud of: Sean (Shane's older brother a local fireman, Maddie his youngest heading to high school, Storie his wife, and Jessie his next oldest. Kaylie had to head home for work. Spencer a soon to be freshman (gasp) Breanna an almost 7th grader (bigger gasp) Lindsay Jeanne will be in 4th, Halley is headed to 1st grade, and Evan 3.) I'm glad we could be there for Dona.

Shasta Lake for the day

2010-08-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

We borrowed Uncle Sean's boat for the day and ran off to the lake. We invited Kellin Pedersen because, let's face it, he is over so much we couldn't leave him behind. L.J. had to show the boys how it is done. She stayed on so long they started chucking grapes at her to get her to fall off...no such luck boys....she's got skills!

One of Shane's favorite things to do at the Lake was to ride behind the boat drinkin' a soda...thanks to braces L.J. had to settle for water.

Yes!!! The Wonder Woman lives on.

Cool looking dive Spence-man. Too bad it hurt like a mother when you landed.

Nice flip K.P.

author's note: so sorry you're sweet jumps didn't make the cut Halley. They had me in them and I was not about to post my white legs over the world wide web.

Watson Falls

2010-08-03T14:42:00.000-07:00

After having fun in Riverbank we headed home with my brother Justin shortly behind us. He works for the Pentagon and lives in Virginia and was in Southern Cali for some yearly meetings. I'd give you more details but I'd have to kill you....aka I really can't explain it because I am not that smart.

We knew that he'd be game for a good ol' Southern Oregon drive through real mountains. We decided to head to Watson Falls west of Diamond Lake. Splash!!! Brea meant to clean off her shoes and slipped back in the water.

Although a not-so-flattering pic of me it is reminiscent of one taken long ago when I was a kid. I had just thrown up after eating way too many blackberries and Dad pulled over to let Mom clean up and take a scenic shot...good ol' dad.

Here is the Falls!! after a short hike that made me realize I need to get in better shape....Princess half marathon in Walt Disney World here I come.........maybe.

Justin and Shane hiked down to feel the thunder. They said it felt somewhat suffocating because of the pounding. They washed their stank in Watson Falls. I stayed behind for documentation purposes only....and to guard my Dr. Pepper from my thieving children.

A girl after her mother's heart she was first to jump in the water. Yeah baby!!

Sat down by accident but it turned out to be more fun than we anticipated.

Bowling Adventure

2010-08-03T14:29:00.000-07:00

Dad and I decided to adventure off and take the kids bowling. Leaving Evanrude behind would have been the only thing that made it more fun for me....Actually, having Shane there to help would have plus-sized the fun. The "phase" he is going through is a trickier one for me...and everything we have done this summer has been without Shane....hard on both of us.

Didn't I tell you...show-pony!

These are the pics that will make me forget the tears of frustration. I could eat him up.

Aliya was the big winner! I think L.J was next...it was close between her and Halley. I think even Evan beat me. I had some great strikes followed by the worst throws. I am my only undoing.

Relaxing in Riverbank

2010-08-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Aliya's baptism it gave us an excuse to get together in July. Jennie has a friend that let the kids come and cool off. Halley has a famous split dive...can't remember if she close her legs before hitting the water.

Naoki is famous for showing his cool tricks. I had to add a cool camera trick to equal his moves. You always know when you score big because he borrows the SD card to download to his computer. Yes!!!

Halley and Melanie were concerned that Papa might forget to plug his nose. These two love their grandpa.

I never got tired watching him jump...grinning from ear to ear.

Not quite a Halley split but more than Mommy can do.

She is a show-pony like her uncle....a future scuba diver for daddy.

It isn't a legitimate trip unless we have photographed these two together. Best cousins!!!

12

2010-07-16T00:20:00.000-07:00

It is no surprise to my kids that I am not a fan of them growing up. If I had my wish I would rewind the clock to when they are small and squishy....even if it meant re-potty training. I just hate to think that some day they will decide it is time to leave my home and make one of their one. Since I do have to see them grow, it is fun to see them do things that I remember doing for the first time and being so excited about it. Breanna got to go to the temple for the first time last week and it was awesome for her. Shane was there with her and they had a special time.

She also got to go to Girls Camp and to say she was thrilled is an understatement. She went to the Whitney's to braid her hair as is the tradition for Medford 2nd girls. The theme is Survivor and I am excited to have her come home and tell me all about her adventure. It was fun to see some of the same leaders at camp who were there when I was a youth.

Here she is with her J.C.'s Karla Grow, Sherilyn Shumway, and Clara Dunn. What a lucky girl to have such terrific girls be her mentors. I am not worried one bit as to how she will fare. Breanna has done a lot of missionary work with her friend lately and almost had her coming to camp too. What a great kid she is shaping up to be...if I don't say so myself.

Brea's 12th Birthday surprise in San Francisco

2010-06-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

Luckily the weather cooperated at the sun finally poked through by 2pm.

We enjoyed time on the wharf watching the stinky sea lions and eating at Rain Forest cafe.

It makes me think of Rice-a-roni..the San Francisco treat ding, ding. Fun to catch a ride 'board the cable car.

Here is the Chinese square. Several people playing card/board games. I saw no sign of Chinese checkers...kinda disappointing. Our hotel was the one right behind Shane and Brea. We were up several floors to see this view...

Cool huh?! Was fun to stay in and be close to the theater so that we could walk home after we saw Peter Pan. Traffic can be so bad, but we just took an evening stroll. Couldn't see paying those prices very often though...Yikes! Hopefully a great memory was made. Definitely was for me.

LJ's Birthday in Adventureland

2010-06-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

Ray was her favorite character from Princess and the frog. Can't start summer without new goggles. Look at those teeth getting straighter.

Spencer tried to pretend it was summer and eat outside. Thunder clouds didn't get the memo...or they felt he was taunting them by building a fire.

Evan saying hello to our visitor from Adventureland, Harry the Hippo.

Doesn't look a day older than 9. We shared the day as it was mother's day as well. Can't think of a better way to spend it than with tiki torches and steel drum music.

Grandma had enough birthday and was ready to go home.

Cantare Chorus performance

2010-06-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

In April Spencer's community chorus that he sings in traveled to Corvallis to compete in a small ensemble competition. They got to perform in a very old Methodist church in Corvallis. They acoustics were amazing which the kids enjoyed. Here is a slice of their work. I apologize in advance for the camera work.

With three college professors as judges the kids did extremely well. They are judged according to how you should sound for your age level. In this case they are 7th-9th graders. They scored an average of 91 out of 100. They got all I or I+ with I+ being the highest. They were amazing.

I recently went to Spencer's school choir concert and nearly gasped at the lack of discipline and the immaturity of their tone quality. I have worked so long with Cantare (community chorus) as a rehearsal assistant, that I didn't realize how good they really are. I get a little teary eyed listening.

Halley-isms

2010-04-22T16:43:00.000-07:00

Conversations with Hal:

Mom: "What's that Hal, I couldn't here you"

Halley: "Nothin' I was just speaking whale"

Mom: "Here's some chocolate from daddy's office"

Halley: "Can I eat it?"

Mom: "Nope, just look at it"

Halley: "What?, Why?"

Mom: "I'm kidding, go for it"

Halley:" ....you totally got me"

Halley: "Mom, I love you"

Mom: "I love you too"

Halley: "I love you more than............hmmm.......my room"

Mom: " Thanks"

Halley: " Is that the happy thanks, or the, you know, mad thanks?"

"Seedlings turn overnight to Sunflowers...Blossoming even as we gaze"

2010-03-31T19:54:00.000-07:00

This is Jessica..my sister. We stopped at the Portland temple as we headed to Ricks College to drop me off for my first year. Yep, she was just a pip squeak.

Here is a pic of the Bringhurst family reunion 2003. She is on the far right.

Here is her very adventurous self when she went to Australia/New Zealand last Fall.

Here she is at the New Zealand temple. Ready to proceed with her next, new adventure...serving a full time mission. Tonight we all got to listen by phone as she read the call that for 18 months she will be serving in the Peru Arequipa Mission. She reports to the Missionary Training Center June 30th. What a blessing she will be to those living in Peru. We are so proud of you Jessica.

Trio Voronezh

2010-03-12T22:41:00.000-08:00

I received free tickets for this group from Doris Sjolund so I took the two oldest who were interested, Lindsay and Spencer. We had very low expectations and thought we might leave halfway through. How wrong we were. This group was so engaging the entire hour and a half. Lindsay is 8 now and she loved every bit. They even begged for me to buy the C.D afterwords. Umm, a 14 and 8 year old wanting a classical c.d. I can part with that $15 pretty easily. If you haven't checking into the Jackson County Community Concerts, you really should. You pay ahead for 5 concerts that are each so diverse. You can either pay $75 per adult or $175 for a family price which can get in two adults and up to 4 children. What a bargain! And to sweeten the deal if you sign up soon, you get their last concert from this season for free. It is the Hunt Family Fiddlers and I hear they are amazing. That's 6 concerts. Holy Cow!

6th graders in my back seat

2010-03-03T12:42:00.000-08:00

Jaci: Hannah, you know a lot of scientific names...what's the scientific name for... (looking around until restaurant is spyed) "Black Bear"?
Hannah: Oh I know it's...
Me interrupting: What's the scientific name for "You're a goober"?

Jaci: Crazy, I was crazy so they locked me in a circle room. That really bugs me. Bugs, I hate bugs they drive me crazy. Crazy, I was crazy so they locked me in a circle room. That really bugs me. Bugs....

....you see where I'm going with this????

Operation Living Room

2010-02-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

Okay, most likely you have heard of my current project. I have not been happy with the warmth and feel to my house. Very Plain Jane. Not that I have a problem with her. She is a loyal friend..always there when you need her. I am just ready for some new friendships. I enlisted the help of my dear friend Tina who has lots and lots of friendships...pretty sure Plain Jane isn't one of them.

She has come over at different stages to lend some advise and tweak the ideas. *Note this is just the beginning. A small, part of the new feel to the room. I have been in love ever since. Drum roll please .........

Sienna is the paint color and I am in love! We painted the whole wall and then Tina decided that a two toned look be better with a chair rail, and she was right. We couldn't stop there and Shane and his Dad put up crown and base molding. What a difference it has made. We already had the base moulding as we meant to put it in 4 years ago, but you know how that can go. We found the other wood mouldings at bargain builders and spent $60 for all of it.

Stay tuned as we introduce drapes, shelves, and some very special friends. I won't give it away.

The Creation

2010-02-22T09:40:00.000-08:00

Halley and McKenna Pedersen came into the kitchen with rumblies in their tumblies so they asked if they could make a creation.. A what? "A creation!" "It is where we go through the kitchen and make a secret recipe from lots of ingredients" Yikes. But because I'm the cool Mom that I am (which equals putting several restrictions on this project) they went forth and how pleasantly surprised I was to see a fruit salad come out of their creative little minds. Score one for the six year olds! Ta dah!

Operation Organization

2010-02-22T09:25:00.000-08:00

Remember this..uugh. I hate even posting it again. When Breanna begged for her own room I hesitated because it would put my two of my messiest together. Hence this...

And this... In January I decided to put my hard earned delivery $$ to good use and purchased a few things to help my girls out... No, not a maid...I don't make that much in deliveries.

A few shelves and cubbies for them to keep their treasures.

And hooks to hold their possessions. $$ well spent..at least until next week when it looks like a pig sty again.

**Punch it Margaret!!!!

2010-01-17T21:53:00.000-08:00

I have pondered this a lot. I read a while back about how someone used a word as their New Years Resolution. I really liked this idea and thought for a while what word could I make my slogan for the year? So I looked at my weaknesses...eee gads that was not fun. So I looked at my strengths...Aaahh much better...self esteem in check. Okay back to those weaknesses..gently. Their was a common thread to a lot of them..which I won't discuss. But they seemed to circle around my color code. Out of Red, Blue, White, or Yellow; I am most white and the rest yellow. I am defined as A peacemaker. A peacemaker brings a great gift of clarity and tolerance and are generally kind, adaptable and good listeners. Sounds nice huh, but there are a whole slew of negative traits that ring very true.
I decided that to develop positive traits that are associated with other colors would take work. But I don't think it is beyond my reach. I decided that the word for the year would be Initiative. I put it in those two colors because I am pretty sure it comes easy to both of those colors which I have very little running through my veins. Instead of shying away from things I want to jump in with both feet. Instead of waiting for my husband to do it I want to
"get ur done"!
Please don't confuse this with feminism. Shane will still be responsible for the garbage every Monday and I will still peel his oranges for him. I just want don't want to be wishing 4 months after my taillight goes out that he will notice and sweep in and fix it for me. I went to Schucks myself (shameless plug for those nice, helpful men), came home, read my manual, and installed the little bugger myself. I felt so proud for fixing something that had driven me nuts for so long. Goodbye annoying red light that glared at me every time I turned my car on.
Instead of sitting back and waiting for things to happen I am going to visualize that green light and put the pedal to the metal....not quite to the point of buying my own living room furniture but give me a few months.

Here are a few things I have put off that I may decide to tackle:

Construct mesh ladder for my tomatoes on my garden box
Tear down UGLY fence in my back yard that my FIL put up before we left for Florida.
Hmm I broke into a cold sweat thinking about doing 1 & 2...I better baby step my way into those first.

I don't know what kind of effect this will have on me if any. But worse case scenario is my tomatoes will be fabulous and I can guilt Shane into doing even more things like finishing trim work on bedrooms that have gone untouched in 4 years on January 25th.

**vague reference to an obscure 80's commercial.... scroll ahead to 7:55 if you are curious. Yes I remember this; I know I am random; I can't believe youtube had it either.

Provident Living

2010-01-14T11:30:00.000-08:00

"We encourage you wherever you may live in the world to prepare for adversity by looking to the condition of your finances. We urge you to be modest in your expenditures; discipline yourselves in your purchases to avoid debt. . . . If you have paid your debts and have a financial reserve, even though it be small, you and your family will feel more secure and enjoy greater peace in your hearts."—The First Presidency,

Is it just me or is this one of the hardest things. I am a simple girl but sometimes I have a hard time defining wants and needs. I need my carpets cleaned...or do I just want my carpets cleaned? I think I really need it, but do you see where it can be hard? I have been trying to save for new furniture but then sometimes the thought creeps in..."you do have somewhere to sit ya know, you don't really need it".

The tragedy in Haiti puts a lot in to perspective and I think I could use that money to sock away a lot in my food storage, but let's be honest, How Boring. I decided this month to buy nuts because they are 1/2 off from the holidays and fill the jugs that I bought two years ago with water. Not spectacular but more than I had yesterday.

Has the New Year brought any resolutions in this department for you? What are you doing to 'feel more secure'? How do you discern between wants and needs?

Random Schmidt

2010-01-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

What a room can look like after one week with cousin and a very inattentive mother!

What a most excellent team looks like while participating in the Amazing Race! Did I mention winning team?

What a daughter looks like on Nerd Day at school. I know...apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

What a toilet can look like after a two year old has watched too much Finding Nemo.

Christmas With Family

2010-01-04T21:16:00.000-08:00

The Christmas family gathering featured everything from formal Christmas dining to watching college bowl games. Here you see some musical chair competition with the kids showing off the latest dance movements.

Dress-ups and pair-ups were ongoing. The kids had a great time dragging out all the dress-up clothing -- for the adults to pick up for them later.

We found time for ice skating again this year. The big kids played tag, while the younger kids just tried to stay standing. Thank goodness for the helper supports.

Our favorite past time was eating. The formal Christmas dinner was divided into three settings to get everyone to the food at the same time.

Did I say something about eating? Ham and potatoes au gratin. What a feast.

An afternoon bowling revealed some talent that had heretofore lain dormant. It also revealed a need for some of us to practice a bit more.

Perhaps it is obvious who was the big winner for the day.

Jacque teamed up with some of her Chorale friends for a Christmas concert. The music was special and the food afterwards was an added treat.

Christmas comes but once each year. It's a shame, because there is nothing like Christmas to show families how much each one is loved and appreciated.

What a little time will do

2009-10-25T22:07:00.000-07:00

Today we carved pumpkins. A great Sunday activity if you asked me. As I helped the kids with the activity my mind wandered back a few months...

...to when Halley began school. Here is a picture on the school bus. I remember walking Lindsay to that same school bus, with the same Mrs. Rose as a bus driver. I was pregnant with Evan and Halley was a difficult toddler. I couldn't even imagine the day when it would be her turn to climb on that same big, yellow, bus.

As I gaze at this picture my heart can scarcely remember when this very bright child would drive me to tears with her head strong ways. She knew what she wanted and she could hold out as long as it would take to get it. My mom used to tell me that she will probably need that determination later in life to remain true to her beliefs. I would cling to that...because sometimes it was all I could understand. She is now such a joy to have around. I miss her when she is gone, and can't wait for her to come back. She comes home with such tales of adventure like trips to the Farm with Mr. Bill the bus driver, and to make the "TH" sound you think of Thadius Thickknees, and the life cycle of a pumpkin. I love to see how much she wants to read during scripture study because a world of jumbled letters has now opened a door for her to climb in. I love to hear her quote movies and try to stump me....happens a lot...and every few nights when she can't quite make it until dawn in a bed by herself she tiptoes in and snuggles by my feet...(because she knows if she climbs in by our heads daddy will have her sleep on the floor.)

I am amazed what a few years will do to change a life, or a perspective. I have learned in Motherhood to squeeze every ounce of joy from where you are because soon you won't be there any more. As we carved pumpkins tonight and the craziness that ensued I had a flash forward to a time when there would be no more little hands wanting to scoop pumpkin goop out with a spoon and no more giggling at the sight of brightly lit pumpkin faces in the moonlight. Treasures I now keep.

Hawaiian Addendum

2009-10-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

It is inexcusable for me to exclude one of the most exciting things I have ever done. On the first day of our Hawaiian adventure we went diving at night with Manta Rays. In the hour or so we were in the water we had at least 10 of these hugh creatures swim past us -- sometimes so close they skimmed across our stomachs. It was unbelievably exciting and a great introduction for Jeanne to prepare her for "swimming with fishes". Although a member of the shark family, Manta Rays have no stinger and no teeth. We had to remind ourselves of that frequently when one of those monsters came swimming towards us.

Aloha to Hawaii

2009-10-20T18:15:00.000-07:00

Whereas we didn't take much time for swimming, the world-class beaches and amazing waves were unbelievable.

We visited the memorial to the servicemen who lost their lives in the Pearl Harbor attack. It was moving to think of how close to our shores the attack came, and how many unsuspecting servicemen still lie at the bottom of the harbor.

This is the battleship Missouri. It has been deactivated since Desert Storm in which it fired the first volleys. It is more renowned as being the site where the Japanese surrender took place when WWII came to an end. It is docked in Pearl Harbor adjacent the the USS Arizona memorial.

Before leaving Ouahu we visited Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. This sunset scene was taken from there.

In Kauai we were driven to the highest lookout in Waimea Canyon, and then biked the 17 mile distance to the bottom. It was all down hill, and a nail biter at times. Mark burned out his brakes and had to get a replacement bike.

Perhaps the most impressive sight we saw on our trip was the cliffs at the Napali Coast. We paralleled this coast in a catamaran for 19 miles of the most beautiful scenery I can imagine. Many movie scenes have been filmed in or around these cliffs. They are the second highest in the world -- topped only by the cliffs of Molokai, the next island south of here.

This picture was taken during our catamaran cruise of the Napali Coast.

Jeanne had to make sure we all ate enough fruit -- here seen raiding a banana tree. The fresh fruit here was to die for. We had no problem satisfying our nutritional needs.

I have never seen a more beautiful golf course. How would you ever concentrate on your game. Unfortunately, I never had a chance to find out.

One more lighthouse before heading home. Leaving Paradise was not easy -- especially knowing we were going back to October in Petersburg.

This last glimpse of Oahu was shot from the plane on the way home. You can see Diamond Head very clearly at the bottom of the picture.

More from Hawaii

2009-10-12T14:11:00.000-07:00

This is our time-share condo in Oahu (the taller one). We were on the 11th floor, overlooking the ocean. There were interesting fish for snorkeling and great waves for just watching and listening to the ocean.

We decided that the Oahu Temple would be a good place to watch General Conference. We found a room full of missionaries in the visitor's center and joined them for the broadcast.

The Polynesian Culture Center was marvelous. Costumes, characteristics and customs from five Polynesian nations were explained and displayed.

There was beautiful dancing from various Polynesian nations as well.

The ocean was 78 degrees and waves like I have never seen before.
We went snorkeling with manta rays and scuba diving in world class coves.

We posed for a picture at a luau where we honored with lies. The food was all Hawaiian, and I found nothing I didn't enjoy -- except perhaps the poi.

Blue Hawaii -- First couple of days

2009-10-01T10:15:00.000-07:00

Here is Jeanne hard at work at the time-share condo Uncle Ron made available for us. This posh house has three huge bedrooms, with all the amenities, and we have found ourselves so busy seeing the sights that we haven't even tried the pool yet.

After off-loading all our luggage we hurried back to the airport to pick up Mark and Cindy. Then it was off to the dive-shop to experience what it is like to dive at night with manta rays. No pictures here in the blog, but we have an unbelievable video to share later.

Day two included volcano observation. Here we are strolling through a lava tube -- luckily there was no lava flowing at the time. We hiked on, and around, and down into calderas and other volcanic structures the better part of the day.

The following day we decided to observe the volcanoes from a more lofty point of view. We chartered a helicopter. This is one of many falls visable during the flight to the caldera of Mauna Kea.

While flying over the caldera our pilot spotted a new run-off into the ocean. We flew over to check it out and saw this. Lava flow into the Pacific starts and stops unpredictably. We were lucky enough to have one start-up while we were in the air. It was pretty spectacular.

This picture was taken enroute to a botanical garden that was labled a "Must See" on our tour book. There is not enough room on this blog for all the pictures taken of orchids and other tropical flowers and vegitation.

The quick walk through the botanical gardens took a couple of hours. It was kind of like the Garden of Eden -- only with clothing.

Just before sunset (which, by the way, occurs at about 6:30 when you are this far south) we visited Akaka Falls. This is the tallest falls in Hawaii, falling an impressive 450 feet. We felt like we were in Jurrasic Park. By the way, we were not far from where much of it was filmed.

More later . . . . . . .

I'm cool 'cause I'm related

2009-09-30T20:58:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post a pic of my cousin but the only one I have is when we were 10 and we were totally decked in my Grandma's clothes and jewelry posing as what else but Charlie's Angels. When we would play Charlie's Angels my cousin insisted that she get to be Kelly Garrett (aka Jaclyn Smith) because her name is Kelly. I agreed to it but secretly inside I was still Kelly because our first real names were the same. Anyhoo, I posted the next best thing and that is a pic of her flower boxes which I want to copy...someday.

If you haven't guessed this post is about my very cool, very hip cousin, Kelly Sansom. As kids we only got to see each other once or twice a year because we lived in California and then Oregon and she lived in Utah. But that didn't seem to matter because as soon as we got to Utah (okay I usually waited a day.... or a half hour because I didn't want to hurt my Grandma's feelings) I would call her and then spend the next two nights at her house. She had a cool room because it was all hers, she didn't have to share, and she had that cool poster of Rob Lowe hanging in her room. I know what you're thinking....she was an upstanding LDS girl, she faithfully put up a post-it to cover up his cigarette. I would live vicariously through her boyfriend stories, because she always had a boyfriend and an ex...I always had neither.

I write this post because technology has made it possible for me to get reacquainted with her in ways that distance normally negates. She has a blog which she shares with others not only her quirky thoughts and feelings but also her amazing gifts and talents. She has a lot of very fun ,very yummy, recipes. And through reading her blog I found that she makes pretty things and sells them...check it out!! If I had to choose a favorite...hmmm I would have to choose three. Triple threat because they say "I'm here and I'm ready to have fun" something I try to live by. Next would be Be a Blessing because it reminds me of what Sis. Kimball said "Never Suppress a Generous Thought" which after Saturday's R.S. Meeting is a new favorite motto. Last I would choose The Light Within because that is my whole point of this blog. I have gotten to know her in ways that I never would have normally because of our distance. She has tried a lot of things and has perfected many. I am sure she has had her fair share of crappy dinners, and lame looking crafts. She would probably be the first to admit it. But she has not given up on trying, and I have benefited by what gifts she has shared by finding the light within. I admired that from afar and thought "Hey, I'm related maybe I have some of that mojo in my corner. I do, but it is different. I have a light within because I am a Child of the same Heavenly Father. Not just because we each have a piece of Frank and Relda Bringhurst in us....although it doesn't hurt ;)

This post was long, sorry, I hope it has ignited a spark to look with in yourself and find that little something that could turn into a big something if you give it a chance. If not...so you won't think reading this was a big, fat waste of time, go to her blog, try her couscous and you'll thank me...and if you make it for other people, tell them I gave you the recipe!

Happy Birthday Beckett and Evan

2009-09-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

This picture still makes me laugh at my sister's neurosis. Juliet had just mopped the floor when someone spilled a can of bacon grease. She was fried (haha) and while she was cleaning up, G-rat walked right through it. She had W pick him up and carry to be washed in the sink....only to have him walk through it again. Mind you, there is a lot of kaos going on because of the upcoming baptism/birthday party. I come into the kitchen and walk through it as well. She didn't take to that kindly and picked me up and carried me to the sink while yelling for someone to take a picture and to come clean my feet. This picture is "G" rated the one I didn't post isn't. Pretty sure there were some obscenities being thrown around...won't tell you by whom...will I purple?

Is that the look of a happy birthday boy or what. Love you Bucket!

Evan was so thrilled to get a Cars coloring book, a Lightning McQueen and a Cars shoe box that it was wrapped in. A guy couldn't be happier.

And speaking of happy. Miyakawa cousins surprised us and showed up 30 minutes before the baptism. How we love our cousins!

L.J.'s Baptism

2009-09-25T13:45:00.000-07:00

If you ask her, this day took forever to come. If you ask me she still seems three. It comes as no surprise to my kids that I hate that they are growing up. Anytime anyone asks Halley about kindergarten and being such a big girl she says "Quiet!, We can't talk about it in front of my Mom, it makes her sad". What I am grateful for is the choices my kids are making as they do grow older.

Lindsay was baptized along with three of her classmates; Leilani, Emma, and Dallin who they are watching get baptized now.

Look how they are beaming. That is what it looks like when a child enters into the waters of baptism and takes upon them certain covenants or promises that they make to their Father in Heaven. That is the joy that the Gospel of Jesus Christ can bring into your life.

Here is the group of family members that made it to the baptism. How lucky we are to have such a wonderful family.

Too close for comfort

2009-09-21T16:45:00.000-07:00

Shane came home at lunchtime to take Spencer out for his birthday. Saturday was the day but he was still convalescing from strep throat and Shane didn't want to leave me as I had just had my tonsils removed. We noticed black smoke pouring from over the hilltop a little too close to where we live. Our first thought was to pray for the pear farm. This local pear farm provides our church with all the pears they need for their welfare system world wide. We live a short jog away and the fire was getting very close.

This house was doused in an effort to help save it.

It has sounded like WWII over my house. So many planes and helicopters trying to do all they can to stop the spread. Today was a day off of school due to budget cuts so my heart goes out to working parents whose children are at home alone. I hope they were all able to evacuate safely.

A Time to Be Still

2009-09-19T13:45:00.000-07:00

I have always considered myself pretty laid back. I do like to get things accomplished but I don't have to be going all the time. I have found though with 5 kids, a lot of what I like to do gets pushed off to the side. Nothing earth shattering, but I have had 600-ish pictures in my camera waiting to be uploaded to my computer...blogs in my head that I have not published...magazines left unread...you get my drift.
I don't know what I have been waiting for, it just seems that I can't get it all done. If I had my husbands personality all things would be on a list and systematically crossed off when accomplished. Good in theory but not my style. I guess I needed something to come into my life to urge me to finish tasks that have long since been pushed aside and gathered cob webs.
Last Thursday I had my tonsils removed which I have pushed off for years but finally had taken care of. I have found now that rather than lay in bed and fear my next swallow I am distracting myself with small mindless tasks that needed my care. These are things that no one else will notice but me, but I have found that it is putting a smile on an otherwise pale face. I guess I should be grateful for this chance of renewal and a chance to look deeper. I'd say thank you but in reality my throat still really hurts...maybe in a week or two.

Chilkoot Trail

2009-08-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

Well here we are, ready for the five-day ordeal. We will follow the same route the Klondike gold seekers followed in the late 1890's.

There was a great deal of smoke from fires in the interior the first day. Luckily the smoke occurred at a time when the views were obscured by trees. The air cleared up during the second day, and the weather was perfect all the way.

Starting out the first day the team still looks pretty fresh. Here we are passing through a burnout on a floating bridge.

The second day included a stop at Canyon City. Artifacts were plentiful in this old stopover from the Klondike gold rush. How they were able to transport things like this cast iron stove is open to conjecture.

The team stops for a photo shoot starting out day-two. Backpacks were still very heavy at this time. Our first day was a very short hike because of the ferry arriving late. Consequently, this second day will be longer than planned.

As promised, I brought no cooking implements along. However I snuck in a couple of MRE's just to see how the kids would react. Julie decided it was worth a photo as evidence that I enjoyed a warm meal on the trip.

This is a place called "The Scales". Here gold seekers weighed their loads before the ascent up the Golden Staircase. Anything extra they left behind. Artifacts like these were plentiful in this area.

Looking up at "False Top" from the bottom of the "Golden Staircase". Looks daunting, and there are two more False Tops after this.

Spencer just getting under way for the top. He'll shed this long-sleeved shirt before too many more steps.

Mid-way up you see our team going hand over hand up the boulder strewn staircase.

Stampeders headed for the Klondike actually preferred the winter ascent because the steps cut into the snow were easier to climb on than these boulders.

Spencer poses near the top on the Golden Staircase for a picture. He, in his BYU tee shirt, should be posted on the BYU website.

Jessica, having already rested at the top, comes back to rescue a distressed backpacker who wrenched her knee, and stops to pose for a photograph with the oldest member of our team.

This monument marks the summit and the dividing line between Alaska and Canada. Usually this area is blanketed in fog. For us it was beautiful sunny skies and a wonderful view.

Spencer's ill-conceived notion to overturn the out-house was was photographed by his Aunt Julie. I imagine Papa Glen was in the out-house at the time.

By this time in the hike, people would resort to anything to improve their body odor -- even the use of bug spray. Juliet demonstrates the technique here.

The bridge near Deep Lake. Everybody is still doing fine. By this time the two old men have developed blisters however and are hobbling just a little.

The Canadian side was treeless for much of the way -- being at about 3,000 feet, which is above the tree level at this latitude. The landscape was marked with glacial snow that provided fresh snow melt all along the way.

Jessica was quite conscious of her appearance along the way because some of the backpackers from other parties were pretty good looking. I'm glad someone was, because many of the rest of us smelled like horses "rode heavy and put away wet".

Long Lake behind this hardy backpacker was a beautiful site, as were the numerous other lakes on the Canadian side of the boarder.

Spencer's backpack was a big as he is but that didn't slow him down. He was the first one to arrive at Bennett Lake, and when he passed me he was running.

The last night was spent at Bare Loon Lake. Some of the brave ones decided they were tired of smelling bad -- time for washing up. The swim out to this little island required passage through leach-infested waters. None of them seemed daunted by the the danger.

True to its name, there were loons in this Lake. Their beautiful sounds made this a much more enjoyable stopover.

The group pauses to pose before this old cabin that reminded us of what the good old days were like. The end of the trail is barely a mile from here.

This was the final day of the hike, and most of us show it.

Nearing the end now. The lake in the background is Lindeman.

Many of the stampeders built boats here only to see them dashed to pieces on the rapids between here and Bennett Lake. The wiser ones pushed on to Bennett before building their boats.

With only two more miles to go, we pushed on as well -- somewhat reluctant to see this wonderful adventure drawing to a close.

The end of the trail. The trail marker now points the way back to Skagway. They don't look too worse for the wear do they?

33 miles of unbelievable terrain as far as scenic beauty. We finished with a much greater appreciation for what the stampeders went through in the search for gold that put Alaska on the map.

The Kids Are Home Again -- At Least Three of Them

2009-07-09T17:22:00.000-07:00

Well, the 3 youngest have come back to the Frozen North -- at least for the summer.

It looks like rest and recuperation are the first thing on the agenda.

We had a warm and sunny Independence Day and the parade was as big as ever. Two times around the block make it seem twice as long and make each entry unforgettable.

We drove out to Banana Point to help Jeff remember just how large the island is (that's a joke). We gathered rocks for a landscaping project I had, and found time for some rope swinging.

Not much time spent with Jordan. He's been out commercial fishing -- first with Kirt Marsh and then with Scott Newman.

Fishing has been pretty good, so if the prices hold up he should have a profitable summer.

The Ohmer Creek Trail was our first training hike for the big Chilkoot Trail scheduled for the end of this month.

The obvious exertion is overwhelming.

The next event was the tote race. Jessica teamed up with three of her friends and showed unsurpassed skill in winning this close race.

Next, Jeff shows that New Yorkers have outdoor skills too, teaming up with his sister for a humiliating loss.

No wonder they lost. They're doing it wrong.

Next the Kid from the Bronx shows off his skill at the log roll.

The agony of defeat.

Baby sister shows him how it's done, easily upsetting her first opponent.

But now it's her turn to taste the cold consequences of defeat.

No pictures are available for the 4.6 mile walk in which Jessica took third for 15-29 age group; and Jeff took 5th for the 50 years and over group. Wow, New York has really aged him.

The summer has been fun -- and it's not over yet. More to follow.

Must Do's Part One

2009-06-27T00:35:00.000-07:00

When you are a regular to the "world", there are a few things that you must check off your list, otherwise... you can't feel good about going home. Pirates of the Caribbean is a definite "Must-do". Even though it has changed from when we knew it as kids it is still swashbucklin' good fun. The Disneyland version is better but the queue for WDW is cooler as in temperature and themed a bit better. I dare you to leave the ride w/o humming "Yo Ho Yo Ho A pirates life for me"!

Yes my faint hearted friend this is a must-do...even for this lily livered mother. The queue is amazingly entertaining (those Imagineers had fun with this one!) The story is so clever and he ride is exhilarating...if you can make it through w/o having a panic attack. I am deathly...I repeat DEATHLY afraid of heights. When we were in Europe I repeatedly had panic attacks when we had to climb in the bell towers of old churches, and up onto Fortresses. I have no idea where this fear originated but it is very real to me....BUT, I could ride this ride over and over. Each time it is different because it is ran by a computer and you never know if you will go up or down, or how many times it will bring you up only to drop you again. I heart this ride!

Toy Story Mania. Never knew what the hype was all about but Shane and I gave it a try last Fall at California Adventure park in California. We ran onto this ride after our first time. We were addicted to it and the only thing that had us walk away on to a different ride was that our arms were so sore from pulling the rope trying to beat each others score. Yes I did beat Shane...once. That is all I needed to keep him humble and not claim that he is "Undefeatable!" Here we are in line as Mr. Potato head tells jokes. Yes I beat Spencer 2 outta 3. Probably won't happen again.

Must-do's most definitely include food. This magical elixir is known as a Dole Whip. You can find this sweet concoction in Adventureland at a hut called Aloha Isle. They sell it in three flavors but there might as well only be one...Pineapple. Ask anyone and they will agree it is a mighty refreshing way to cool down on a hot day,...or night as this case may be. MMMmmm good! Stay tuned for the next installment of WDW Must-do's. For me it is all a must do but I am trying to limit myself. Not. Easy.

Scopa Towers

2009-06-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

Researching where we were going to call home on our visit to the world was pretty easy. We knew we had to get two rooms with the size of our family so it had to be a value resort. Let me back up...when we go to Disney World we stay in one of their resorts for a number of reasons 1. Usage of Extra Magic Hours 2. Usage of bus transportation
3. Once you have done both it is hard to go off property again. With the value resorts you have a few choices: All Star Music, All Star Sports, All Star Movies, or Pop Century. We chose Pop (or if you listen to the podcast WDWToday it is affectionately known as Scopa Towers), because it is the newest and has the best concessions hands down of all the others. The idea of Pop Century is that there is the 50's the 60's the 70's the 80's and the 90's buildings. The older decades are still under construction. We requested the 80's for the obvious reasons that the 80's were awesome...but also because it was close to the buses and the pool was the less populated. We wanted a quieter area to nap the kids midday (a must when you tour the smart way).

The stairs are cleverly disguised by an icon of that era. This is one from the 50's. The pool for the 50's had a giant Jukebox and was the shape of a bowling pin.

Here is our way cool staircase. Halley and I had to go up and down it each day because it was so cool. A side note...I still can't solve those w/o pulling off the stickers. Anyway we were on the third floor again to get a quieter area for napping. What you can't see is the Pac-man on the sides of the 80's buildings with the power dots and ghosts as well. Way fun! Our pool was shaped like a computer and there were fun sayings everywhere like: "Gag me", "Fer sure", "Don't have a cow", and "Preppy". Shane and I also enjoyed the 80's music that would play around the pool like good ol' Huey Lewis and the Bengals.

Each day the "mousekeeping" would make cute little animals out of wash clothes and playfully lay out our stuffed animals that we had purchased. Of coarse we had to leave them a little extra something for their extra effort. But when you know these poor gals are from Haiti trying to provide for a family you can't help but share what you have been blessed with. The clean, cool room was soo inviting after a long hot day at the park. Thumbs up for Pop!

Coolest Dad Award

2009-06-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

How lucky was I to be able to spend Father's Day with my Dad. I can't tell you how many years it has been spent by a phone call and me trying to share through the Satellite how special I think he is. We came off of our WDW trip and got to spend the next day at Mill Creek Falls and Avenue of the Boulders. I loved that place as a kid so it was very fitting to go back with my parents. One thing my Dad gave me was a love for the outdoors. Fun to go back!
Unfortunately with L.J. coming off vacation with pneumonia we couldn't really do a whole lot more but even just being at home with my parents is soul food for me. I love waking up to see my Dad playing with one of my kids or tinkering on his laptop...and seeing my Mom start breakfast...a chore I admittedly never do. I loved waking up this morning to make creme brulee french toast for Shane and my Dad...although I was way too sleepy at church as a result. I also loved making a big dinner to honor the two Dad's in my life. A good day for all until I had to see them off at the airport...not fun :( Dad I love you and I am grateful for the role you play in my life.

Happiest Place on Earth

2009-06-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

It all started with a car ride to Portland and a 4 1/2 hour plane ride to Atlanta then a 1 1/2 hour plane ride to Orlando. Kids did great but we still got stares where'ere we went. Must be something to do with 7 people, 2 strollers, 1 car seat, and 7 rolling bags.

The Orlando airport is such a fun airport to fly into. You can feel the magic as soon as you leave the plane.

We always begin our trip at the Magic Kingdom. If you have never been to the "world" this is the park that is most like Disneyland with Main Street, Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland etc. My girls are feeling the magic walking through Frontierland as we hear a hoedown about to begin. All my kids got tagged to participate in the event. They got to square dance with Bear Country characters and cast.

This year WDW has the theme of "What Are You Celebrating?" Everywhere you went it felt like a party...even down to the flowers. We went simply celebrating being a family. What a party we had!!!

Travels to America

2009-06-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

Well, since the weather was absolutely gorgeous in Petersburg, and we had nothing better to do, we decided to take a trip south so we could be there when Lindsay Schmidt was baptized.

To our surprise, there were many others who had the same idea. They had to hold the baptism in the chapel to accomodate all those who wanted to participate.

Along with the baptism, we attended impromptu piano recitals. Darren, Chris and Ken all contributed.

We also had a chance to watch world class softball. Justine protects home plate as she gets the put-out in her Babe Ruth softballl game.

Evan turned out to be a real animal lover, as he adopted each of Chris and Mary's many cats.

Here, the girls domonstrate both poise and balance, as they perform an amazing feat of ball ballet.

An appropriate amount of time was spent spoiling grandkids with toys and gifts and lots of food.

A lavish amount of time was dedicated to swimming in the Schmidt's new pool. Glen and Shane worked hard before our visit to get the deck ready for heavy use.

We found time to enjoy some serious beach time at Half Moon Bay, south of San Francisco. We caught jelly fish, lassoed kelp, and watched enormous waves devestate our beautiful sand castles.
Jenny and Naoki arranged for some serious horseback riding at a rodeo in Turlock, California. The horse Ken is riding competed in the calf roping in the rodeo.
Melanie found her a cowboy at the rodeo. She slid down next to this old cowpoke and started playing with his mustache and combing the hair on his arm. Luckily, he was good natured and enjoyed the attention from such a little sweetheart.

Ken took us bowling with some coupons he received for being an honor student. Here his little sister shows us how the real bowlers do it.

"make 'em laugh"

2009-05-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

What this kid brought me in tears and frustration when she was younger she brings in laughs now. The other day I was helping her clean her crazy messy room. She is my kid that thinks everything is special and needs to be saved. I purge every once in a while but hadn't done it lately. We are working on her room when I noticed her goofin' off. I told her that if she didn't help I was going to leave. She had three warnings before I finally left. Usually this results in a lot of tears and no real progress. Effective parenting I know, but sometimes I have to remove myself from the situation. She comes waltzing down the stairs and says "Mom, my room is such a mess you have to come see it!!" I was a little scared but obliged her. Her room looked wonderful and I'm thinking "what in the what, what?" I said "Halley, I don't know what to say"...without skipping a beat she said offhandedly "...thank you very much; you don't know what you'd do without me... something like that". Such a gomer!

Oldies, but Goodies

2009-05-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased a scanner that makes 35 mm slides into digital images. Since Justin, and others, have been commenting on our Yellowstone adventure of many years ago, I thought you would enjoy these.

Here is Juliet at Mammoth Hot Springs

Although Jordan didn't find his way into this picture, he was on the trip. Jessica was still a gleam in her father's eye.

This one shows little Jennifer at Witches Caldron

Here are Jordan and Jeff at one of the many steam pots

This swimming hole we found at Fire Hole. It is fed by a warm springs and doesn't freeze in the winter.

Chubby Cheeks looks a little forlorn. Maybe it's the fragrance from the sulfer pot.

Chris, always our outdoorsman, seems right at home in this magnificant setting.

"Firehair" showing off those great soccer legs.

Does anybody miss our Beauville? Does anybody miss the "Chinese fire drills" each morning to get all the bedding packed up and ready for another long drive?

This was a remarkable vacation. I only wish Jessica had been with us to enjoy it as well.

I left my heart...

2009-05-15T00:09:00.000-07:00

Spring Break with the Miyakawa's brought a trip to San Fran. We decided to park under China Town near the Trans America Tower and walk up to the Coit Tower. What in the what what?

I have no idea why I thought I could navigate my 5 children through the streets of the city w/o Shane. He stayed home to get a large portion of our backyard done. Something in me still wants to give my kids cool experiences...even w/o my most helpful half.

Can you tell from this pic just how far we had to walk? See that same pointy building way down there. Coit tower is up on a hill...it was a watchtower. I must have lost my marbles.

Can you see my sweet brother in law helping me down the stairs with Evan. It was such a cool trip but I will never do that again...my thighs burned for days.

Head in the clouds..feet in the sand

2009-05-14T23:48:00.000-07:00

Shane and Sean making nature's playpen. Evan didn't care until he got grit in his teeth. I think I was cleaning sand out of his ears for days.

My guys. These two are crazy about each other. Each new addition to our family makes us wonder how we ever did w/o them.

I think Halley was buried half of our vacation.

Going..going...GONE!

Old McRoger has a farm

2009-05-14T23:25:00.000-07:00

Halley's preschool (okay there are only two of them) was invited to Roger Hall's farm last April. It was so much fun! It was a gorgeous day and Evan was in hog heaven. He loved the animals and didn't mind cow slobber.

Halley gave me a thumbs up when it was her turn. When all three kids were on Charlie(I think that was his name) Halley preferred to sit off the saddle on his rump.

Evan loved to follow the Gawk Gawks. Our backyard it kind of off limits to him because it is not fenced off yet. Here at the farm he had freedom to roam as far as his little legs would take him. He loved every minute that we spent there.

I grew up in the country on the outskirts of Medford and seeing the view and smelling the field daisies, and hearing the animals was food for my soul.

A birthday in Wonderland

2009-05-14T22:28:00.000-07:00

I knew I wanted to do a special party for Lindsay's 8th birthday. She has never has a party and I wanted it to be great. I came up with the idea of Alice in Wonderland but I knew I would have little commercial help since it is not a popular theme like Fairies or Hannah Montana. I have always loved thsi story so I had so much fun making my decorations. Shane dislikes the story, but he was a good sport.

Here are the crazy girls that helped make her day special. She has such darling friends and I am grateful for their influence in her life!

The Friday before the party I decided to attempt to make an Alice dress. After staying up until 3 just getting fabric washed ironed, patterns cut out etc. I realized I was an idiot. I called my seamstress friend early the next morning to double check my efforts before I cut it out and bless her very generous soul she made the entire dress in a few hours...when she had her own yard work to do. I was so grateful to be able to watch and learn during the process.

Here is my fun attempt at croquet mallets made into flamingos and the ball to be a hedgehog. Hee hee.

I have had singing

2009-04-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the privilege to sing Carmina Burana under the direction of Art Shaw who has been the conductor of the Rogue Valley Symphony for the past 22 years. Words cannot express the emotion that was felt...you had to be there! As we sang the final page I could scarcely sing the text as I thought of how I would feel to be him or his beloved orchestra. They played their hearts out Saturday and Sunday and we tried to equal their precision. I also thought of this man below that I love and admire. Lynn Sjolund.

I could go on and on as to the ways he has impacted my life ...but I choose to keep those close to me. As I see the RV Symphony being forced to move on I know that day, will one day come for me. Until it does, I will cherish each Monday night and each concert, that I have the privilege to sing under his direction. Best wishes to Maestro Shaw...his leaving will be a loss to this community.

Little Update

2009-03-05T10:23:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while since I've blogged here...no excuses. So here's a little bit of what's going on over here. Alice is celebrating Dr. Seuss at school this week by dressing up, and much to my dismay she actually wants to participate. I'm so bad at costumes, but this is what we came up with in five minutes this morning. She was happy, so I'm happy. School is going really well for her. She's riding the bus home now and they don't get home until 4:10, which seems so late to me. Twice this year the bus driver had to wake her up to get off the bus. She fell asleep on the way home. So cute. Laura is a happy little helper and she wanted to be put to work at the sink. I'm sure it had something to do with playing with the bubbles, but she thought she was hot stuff for lending Mom and hand. Thanks little Lola.

This week on Monday and Tuesday we had snow days. I just love them, even though I'm adult now, I still wake up at 5am to check the news. I get giddy about the big breakfast together in our jammies, the hot chocolate, the rotating door of little people playing in the snow. Laura loves the outdoors...no matter how cold. Alice loves to snuggle up and play games with popcorn. It was a lot of fun. Get this, on Saturday it's supposed to be 70 degrees. That's spring for you, I guess.

I love this picture, but I wish you could have seen the snuggles that went with it. We were getting ready for church and the girls were on our bed waiting to have their hair done. Laura smashes on top of Alice with mildly agressive hugs and kisses and then she loudly proclaims, "I LOVE HER!". Alice was a good sport and loved the attention. Seeing them interact and take care of each other really does a heart good. Alice is a great big sister, and Laura does her best to take care of Alice. She tucked Alice in her bed last night with a kiss on the nose and everything. I loved it.

2009-02-26T12:52:00.000-08:00

I thought I should report on the recent trip Jeanne and I had in San Diego.

As a Valentine's Day surprise I reserved a night at the Hotel Del Coronado. I have stayed here a few times during our earlier life in Los Angeles, but Jeanne had never had the opportunity. Needless to say it was a wonderful experience. The Hotel Del is 120 years old and still has a cage elevator with an elevator man asking you which floor and pushing the buttons. The grounds were extensive and enjoyable just to walk through.

We enjoyed some time on the beach, which is rated one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the country. They groom it daily to remove all the sea weed and drift wood. We absorbed as much Vitamin D as we could while we watched aircraft carriers and submarines pass by on their way out to maneuvers.

Our room was as antiquated as the hotel, with a view of the ocean. Nothing was included with the room charge. Even a bottle of water was a $7.50 add-on.

We found time for some fun in Sea World. (This time there were no crusts under the car, so we went right in.) It was way different without any kids to enjoy it with, but at least no one coaxed us to sit in the "soak zone". The best news was not having to find a place to stash strollers at each stop.

We have Beluga whales here in Alaska, but dancing with them was a new experience. We totally missed having at least some of the grand kids there, but we managed to enjoy ourselves anyway.

Shamoo was a great as ever I can remember. I don't have room for the hundreds of photos he posed for.

The hotel we stayed at for my meetings was the Inn at Half Moon Bay. While not quite of the same class as the Hotel Del Coronado, the location in San Diego's yacht harbor was plenty impressive. The picture attached shows the view from my meeting room.

Drum Roll Please

2009-02-06T09:01:00.000-08:00

Okay, after careful consideration I am doing it. I am jumping ship, abandoning..never to look back.

I am changing the name of my blog. Provided I can figure out how! I can hang on no longer to the idea that my family will participate in

this bonding experience. Now...I need your help. How about some suggestions as to my new name. You can win....the satisfaction of

naming my new blog. Don't fret, there is not a lot of competition. You really could win! Really!

Christmas in Salt Lake City

2009-01-20T09:04:00.000-08:00

After a 16 hour drive (thank you recent snow storm) we arrived in Springville and never had to use chains until 1:30 a.m. getting up Julie's hill to her house. Lame. After church on Sunday we enjoyed a walk through temple square.

Parents needed kids to blow off steam so we took them to a warehouse full of giant blowups. Way cool! Everyone one had so much fun. Gotta love Utah and their multitude of family activities. Shane took a day to take Spencer snowboarding and teach Lindsay Jeanne to ski. They went to Sundance because good ol' Robert Redford offers a serious discount to nurses and other service professionals. I knew I loved that guy for a reason. Most of which are for his performance in this, and this, and most definitely this.
I had to throw this one in...so beautiful. This was Shane and my kids' first experience with Temple Square. A treasure.

"We're Not Worthy" ...in a total Wayne and Garth voice

2009-01-12T17:15:00.000-08:00

Okay so when we were in Portland Shane boss said he would try to get us tickets to the Trail Blazer game. Whatever...if it happened great. He called us back and we met him at the Rose Garden where he got us tickets to a "suite" SWEET! We go up a private elevator with all the other mucky mucks and enter a room with a lounge area for what else...lounging.

Here is Jeeves in the blue taking our "orders". His name isn't really Jeeves but it made my story better. We were sitting in leather seats enjoying the view and had binoculars to spy on all the other hoity toities.

So fun to pretend for a night. This is the coolest pose I could come up with. I was channeling my inner Travolta. To end a fabulous night the Blazers reached 100 points, so we all got chalupas. You quiero Taco Bell!

It's 9:51; you'll have to wait until tomorrow

2009-01-11T22:00:00.000-08:00

Okay, I promised myself I'd be in bed by 10:00 so I gotta hurry...besides no one has been home for 3 days and it is ffreeeezing in here. And my right hand is numb but my left is fine...why is that? Okay so Shane and I went to Portland which I will 'splain later. Shane thinks I am taking a picture of his darling self when really it is of the size of cup *"Squizno's" gave him. He asked for a water and got a Sacrament size cup. Dentists give you a bigger cup to swish with. My Listerine cap is bigger. I was laughing so hard I almost spilled and wasted his precious beverage. At least his trips to the bathroom will be less frequent.

*name changed to protect the guilty

Tagged...I'm it!

2008-12-15T08:49:00.000-08:00

Thanks Trina for giving an excuse to post. I know you can't wait to read this so I will delay no further.

8 favorite t.v. shows
1. Gilmore Girls
2. So you think you can dance
3. House
4. Psyche
5. Amazing Race
That's about all that occupies my DVR

8 books I recommend...this will be short
1. Anything Mary Higgins Clark I'm a sucker for a good clean strangling at 1:00 a.m.
2. A heart like His...Virginia Pearce
3. To Kill a Mockingbird...I know sophomore reading but I still loved it.
4. I'm out

8 things that happened yesterday
1. Called to be the new Activity Day leader...in my last three callings I have had to follow Kay, Sunni and Kristi...man these shoes have been hard to fill
2. listened to two 13 year old boys on violin and piano play my favorite christmas song...The First Noel
3. Sang O holy night in church with a 13 year old solo girl...great job!
4. Sang in the Craterian Ginger Rogers Theater...always a joy
5. Listened to my daughter sing with children's chorus...fabulous...really!
6. Sang with my daughter in the Craterian
7. Listened and sang with a harp...cool!
8. Attended a Feast of Singing at United First Methodist and listened to my 13 year old son sing with the bell choir....A joyous day indead!

8 things to look forward to
1. Hello... Christmas
2. My White Christmas/It's a Wonderful Life traditional Christmas Eve viewing
3. Christmas Eve in general...ahhh the suspense...beats the let down after Christmas anyday
4. This week in a half that has few obligations
5. After Christmas trip to Utah...I love my family
Those are enough to fill me

8 things on my wish list
1. Steam mop hopefully on Santa's sleigh
2. gloves...the fun colorful kind
3. new phone...can you see the tears falling...my poor new phone went for a swim in the washing machine
4. gormet hot chocolate
5. White Christmas...oh wait I'm driving to Utah the next day...today counts!!!
6. carolers

8 things I love about winter
1. snow!!!
2. mittens
3. warm, fun socks
4. hot chocolate
5. movie nights
6. scarves
7. bright colors
8. fun jammies

8 people to tag
merry christmas to all my loved ones...feel free to tag yourself if you want

Daisy

2008-12-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

Well, we did it. We got a dog, something I never thought I would do. The girls love her and she's actually a pretty good puppy. She understands a few commands already. "Come" is her sure thing command. I called my sister-in-law for a crash coarse in training. She's got mad skills with dogs, and was a big help.

Stille Nacht Heilige Nacht

2008-12-03T08:32:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite Christmas albums as a child (okay who am I foolin' it still is a fav) was Muppet's Christmas. I loved when John Denver got quiet and told the story of Franz Gruber and Joseph Mohr and how Silent Night came to be. The rough translation of this plaque is "In this house lived from 1817-1819 auxiliary priests Joseph Mohr (1792-1848). Here created in the year 1818 the text of the Christmas Carol Quiet Night Holy Night. When Shane surprised me for Christmas with the Chorale trip to Europe he began to tell me all the places we would get to go. Oberndorn Austria was the one I was most excited about.

I remember a talk given by Pres. Faust several years ago in which he said "In the war in which my father served on the western front, in the stillness of Christmas Eve there wafted over the trenches to the ears of the American soldiers the soft sound of the voices of their enemy singing, “Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht” (“Silent night! Holy night”; Hymns, no. 204). Their enemy in turn could hear the American soldiers singing, “Peace on earth, goodwill to men” (“Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains,” Hymns, no. 212).

Twenty years later, in the war in which I served, the same area and the same enemies were involved. Although I did not serve on the western European front, on Christmas Eve the English and American soldiers could hear the Germans sing, “Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht,” and the Germans could hear the Americans sing, “Peace on earth, goodwill to men.” This song was able to bring peace if only for a day. Each Christmas since Europe when I hear this beloved carol a well of emotion washes over me as I think of this powerful song written in a tiny church by two humble men on a quiet Christmas Eve.

Randomness

2008-12-01T14:39:00.000-08:00

I know it has been forever. I apologize to the two people who follow my blog. Here is the fourth generation of Thanksgiving eve bread brakers for stuffing. I used to love this job as a child because I pretended it was the sacrament (a titch sacrilidge I know) My girls had so much fun they wanted to do more and more. Grandma would have been so proud.

I was near our Dark Hollow home the other day doing a delivery and I had to capture a picture of Dad's Liquid Ambers. They were the prettiest thing about the now unattended yard. A wave of nostalgia overcame me.

You asked for a "Halley", here you go. She was sitting on neighbor Tim's driveway and I though "Oh how sweet, let me take a picture." Click... "Come on in Halley"...."I can't....I pooped my pants".....Happy feeling gone.

More to love

2008-11-12T19:02:00.000-08:00

Out came the tonsils, on came the pounds!!! She's finally eating and thriving.

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2008-11-05T20:30:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe that you turned 65 ~~today~~ 4 days ago. To us you are timeless. Here are 65 reasons why we have loved you since we have known you:

Women are to be soft and pretty.
Classic unrelenting responses to questions like where's mom...."she's on the roof."
Search and destroy missions.
One on one time w/him for business trips.
Hearing him actually say "I love you too" (instead of "me too") for the first time when I was a teenager
Walking the rake back and forth between the garage where I left it and the shed where it needed to go.
Riding on top of the hay bales from Marco's field to our house.
Rotary club fines he was happy to pay when they involved his kids' successes.
That old Matador that Jeff and I had so much fun playing in because he was trying to 'help out' at an auction.
Great backpacking trips where I learned to appreciate nature.
Horrible backpacking trips where I heard Jeff's heartbeat through the ground as we awaited the bear's final attack on our tent until we heard "Little pig, little pig, let me in."
Hiking the bone chilling Chilkoot trail and alternating granola bars, trail mix, fruit rolls, Ritz and cheese, and jerky for each meal for 5 days while looking on longingly at others' warm cooked meals because dad doesn't like to carry extra weight w/him.
The Windago.
Great camping trips riding bikes, taking hikes, and sleeping in that pea green tent trailer.
Sweetheart of Sigma Ki and many other classic songs.
Nickel for the first one to jump in the ice cold water.
For always making me feel like his favorite daughter.
I love the jig he does to the catchy beat of the dishwasher
I love when he'll take a half-day from work just to take me kayaking
I miss him singing me "He watching over Israel" when I was younger
"Let me know when it's my turn"... ouch, that phrase could stop a charging gorilla
I love his ability to 'improve upon' stories
Hanging me from a bear post on the Chilkoot trail
"O lord it's hard to be humble..."; "Harry Pollet was a worker..."; "May you live a hundred years..."
Making me mickey mouse pancakes before I went to Disneyland
I love watching certain movies with Dad because of how hysterical he gets, like Spanglish and Groundhogs Day
I love that he tried to hide his tears when I went away to Jerusalem
I love how he'd signal me from the stands at all my games with our upside-down, hand glasses
Donald Duck voice... I laugh every time
Taking me to see PG-13 Jurassic Park, when I was only 11! (and then letting me sit on his lap because I got so scared)
I cherish the few times that Dad got to sit with us at church... especially the times that Mom would give us the evil stare because we're giggling again
Making ME feel like I was his favorite daughter :o)
Nothing says "you're special" like a night out with dad at wristband night at Dodger stadium!
Always glad when Dad was the one waiting up for us when we'd come home after curfew! Sorry, mom, but you were scary! Dad was always asleep and appeared too tired to get angry.
Ditto for driver's ed w/dad--though, in mom's defense--I can take a corner like nobodies business as a result of mom's unwitting tutorials! :)
Changed my life when Dad put me on a plane to Finland before I really knew what he was doing. I had previously felt no desire to travel but I found that to be a new love, it solidified my testimony in the gospel when I attended a sacrament meeting that was just like one I might've attended @ home 1000's of miles away and it gave me a new perspective on the world and how self-absorbed Americans can be, versus these people who were very aware of what was happening all around them in the world. A pivotal moment in my life.
Loved the few times I got to work with dad in our old garage in Thousand Oaks. I still remember him helping me prepare a talk on David and Goliath in that garage.
Getting my high school diploma from dear old dad was pretty cool.
One word: NOVA
James Bond, The Sting, and Hatari, Neil Diamond, Kenny Rogers, all make me think of dad
I may not have dad's crooked little finger, but I have him to thank when I can't remember something really important I was going to do 5 minutes ago...
A true appreciation for nature in all its splendor came from innumerable camping, hiking, and site-seeing vacations over the years. (All time favorite: Potty pants natural water slide)
All of us are beneficiaries of his quiet wit and sarcasm
Special words of advice, encouragement and the occasional new dress on my mission
And boy, dad, don't we have them fooled!? Still Daddy's #1 girl!
I'll never forget my first introduction to a compact disk player when Dad played "Round Up" I thought for sure the cows were out and most likely it was one of us that left the gate unlatched. It wasn't until William Tell's Overture began that we knew we had been duped. I sure wish I can look back and see your laughter.
Best Catch Phraseology: "Let's argue about snow", "Can't get off the train", " I Can't believe I ate the whole thing!", "Apple, peaches, pumpkin ,sugar, whoever"s not ready holler booger"
Who remembers his brilliant idea of when we would argue we had to sit across from each other and say "I love you, I love you, I love etc..."
I loved our annual outing to the Dorothy Chandler to watch Mom sing Handel's Messiah, even if I fell asleep every year
I loved it when dad would annually do the dishes...we found out years later it was because he didn't trust us to wash the china
Who can forget his crazy nicknames..Yoder Mcgroder, Cricket, Pilgrim, Sparky, Stumpy
I'll never forget being panic stricken as he took me to Camp Baker Road to teach me to drive a stick shift..he was calm as a cucumber
I really believed him when he felt my muscles and told me they got bigger from eating all my raspberries
I loved being at work and running into people from the hospital who would say what a wonderful man my father is...even if I already knew it
While I was dying when running the 400 meter dash I loved to see Dad cheering me on in the stands even if I was in last place...again
I can only imagine how awkward it was to pick me up when I had been taken to the "other" hospital after passing out at track practice. I can still hear the nurses rib you that they got one of "Rogue's" patients.
Your ever gentle way of teaching us to love the classics, Tchaikovsky, Handel, Bach, Mozart(never will forget seeing Amadeus for Family Night). There are times in the Chorale I will be singing a piece and it will be so familiar to me that I know how all of the parts go. I realize later that it is because it is from one of the many records or c.d's that you exposed us to over the years. I knew the full Hallelujah chorus in college before ever singing it.
I remember how grateful I was to see your face after getting in my one and only car accident. So calm, loving and non judgemental.
Your complete trust in my judgement when I brought my nonmember boyfriend to meet you. I guess his being an eagle scout was a plus
Sitting up front in the middle of the night on our way to Utah..sharing your Ritz crackers and fig newtons
MacGyver-like ability to fix anything with a bottle of wood glue
Patience of Job to allow your many children to walk all over roof while "helping" put on a new one
I'm not sure why, but I loved going to cut wood from the woods. It was work but didn't seem like it.
Sandwiches on the stairs of Zurich will be hard to beat
I am sorry you are all misled I must inform you that I am his favorite daughter. After all who did this blog anyway?

Happy Birthday Dad. The childhood you brought to us was so fun and memorable. The wisdom and legacy will never be forgotten. We love you and wish we lived closer to enjoy more of you!!

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T21:59:00.000-07:00

I went to my in laws today to check on Papa (post surgery) I captures this sweet moment between sisters. I love their fingers intertwined. So sweet!

Evan loved to watch his sisters throw leaves at each other. He has this look on his face quite often when he watches them. Pure amusement!

We had a Pooh bear, a Sleeping Beauty, a Princess Jasmine, an Eighties Valley Girl, a Zombie Butler ( or Dead Deacon), and that sassy Caribou Barbie Sarah Palin reminding all to vote!!

It's me....but not

2008-10-28T23:04:00.000-07:00

You know how there are certain things that are the core of who you are. Take me for instance; I will always enjoy playing over work, I will always enjoy listening over talking, solving a problem will always include a lot of meditation, and Disney World will always be my favorite vacation spot (had to throw that one in). There are several things that I don't do well; confrontation, sharing my opinion, organizing anything, getting up early. Today I was put in a situation where I had to do a few of those things that I don't do well. I had to reach my boiling point (not that I was really boiling...I just could not, NOT say anything). I found it so difficult to do and I was tripping over my tongue the whole time but,...I did it. I was silently so proud of myself and had to laugh because no one in the room knew how painful that process was for me. I am grateful to the Lord for blessing me to be ...ME... I like that I am a good listener, and that I have my dad's calm nature, and that I am a peacemaker. I am also glad that He sees fit to put me in situations that are a bit, uncomfortable for me to prove to myself that I can be more than just ME.

Way to go Pop!

2008-10-24T21:55:00.000-07:00

Well Papa went in for emergency open heart surgery today and came out like a champ. They thought it was a quadruple but turned out to be triple. They thought it could be a four hour surgery and turned out to be barely two. He was doing things by 4 p.m. that most patients don't do until the second day. Last night he came over unannounced to drop off some things and it just so happened that the Bishop came by at the same time. Bishop asked if he and Shane could give him a priesthood blessing and he agreed. I know that his recovery has gone so well because of this blessing.
When Pop came over last night he explained what was being done to my kids. It took a bit of explaining...but they started to understand. When they asked why it happened he explained that it could be from a variety of causes...heredity, diet, etc...Halley thought for a second and then said "It's probably from drinking all that coffee!!!" From the mouth of babes. This is the first story that is told to all nurses and relatives that come for a visit. She's a corker!

Sweet Yesteryear

2008-10-22T21:48:00.000-07:00

One advantage of going to Disneyland without kids was to go to the places that don't necessarily need a fast pass...if you know what I'm saying. As you enter Main Street on the right is the Opera House. It was the first thing built and then until 1960 was the saw mill where all the intricate woodwork throughout the park was produced. You might remember the Opera House because it is where you could see Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. Right now it is housing a historical display which I loved...and if I must confess, visited it twice. There is a funny movie playing where Steve Martin hosts with Donald Duck where great moments of Disneyland history are revealed. I guess my point of this post...if there must be one, is to reminisce with my sibs about my favorite ride gone by. I am speaking of none other than America Sings. It was located in Tomorrowland in the round theater that turns in a complete circle 1 mile an hour. If you never saw it or need to take a walk down memory lane go here. Sam the eagle was the narrator of this Bicentennial tribute and he took you through song across the years of our great country.

As I walked through the Opera House display room I was reminded of such characters as the Dapper Dan's who sang such favorites as "The Bowery", and "Where is my wandering boy tonight?"...if you heard them you'd remember (even you Jennie)

How about the 'gator's singin' Polly Wolly Doodle. Remember the random weasel that popped up saying "Pop goes the weasel tee hee"? Even though this favorite is gone it is fun to ride Splash Mountain and see these great old friends still thriving. We used to have the record where I would lay and turn the colorful pages listening to "Who shot that hole in my sombrero..who put that bullet through my hat..I can't figure, who pulled that trigger..You don't reckon my ol' wife could be back in town?"

One other favorite was Country Bear Jamboree which was removed to make room for Winnie the Pooh (cute ride for kids...and me!) I will never forget the nights my dad used to Lull me to sleep singing the song that made Big Al a favorite "There was blood on the saddle...blood all around...and a great, big, puddle of blood on the ground". If you have a trip planned take a minute or two...or thirty, and cool off while enjoying a tribute to the place that has earned the title of Happiest Place on Earth.

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2008-10-14T07:56:00.000-07:00

Wishing our Mother a Happy Birthday! The blog is a day late due to technical difficulties so here we are...better late than never...60 reasons why we love our Mom!

1.Sharing - After one bite of her sandwich, "Oh I'm full, could you
finish mine". Who didn't love to cop a taste of Pepsi whenever she
wasn't looking ... she gave and she gave and she gave!
2.for fresh whole wheat bread when you came home from school
3.for always making double when she had to make a treat for something
4.for understanding that balanced, nutritional meals that are a lot of work are more important than prepared, preserved, boxed food
5.for neck rubs and back scratches
6.for reading to us from The hatchet in front of the fireplace
7.for making Jenny do a load of wood for saying half a bad word (can't think of the word at the moment) oh yeah..LARD ...leaving out the BUTT.
8.for still loving us even though we sent her to her bathroom in tears
9.for almost peeing her pants when we'd tickle her
10.for teaching us how to work and enjoy a job well done
11.for caring that her house was clean before our friends came over (because I care, that's why) so we could learn to take pride in our homes
12.for a million rides to and from flute practice, piano, soccer, plays, band practices, etc..
13.for listening to us all start our various instruments and having patience enough to still allow the next kid to start one too
14.for being mature enough to not meddle where things are best left alone (i.e. our marriages)
15.for staying at home w/us so she could offer us the blessing of her time, quality meals, and involvement/support
16.for a great testimony that set such a good example for us
17.for encouraging us to get a good education
18.for her love of reading
19.Loving - In addition to raising 8 children she helped raise the children
of at least a dozen other working parents. It also is noteworthy that
all her girls put there priority on their own children.
20.Softy - Broom hokey, roof trampoline base jumping, indoor soccer,
volleyball and wrestling were all ok because "mom, we don't do full
nelsons"
21.Frugal - Talk about "Waste not". Her purse was so loaded with coupons
in certain instances she received merchandise and more money - no joke.
Oh and Martha Mitchell called, she is finally throwing away the frozen
peas.
22.a Trooper - I heard she once hiked the Chilkoot trail without a lick of
previous fitness training -Great Vocabulary - Shakespeare and Relda
would occasionally raise an eyebrow.
23. a great driver she had NASCAR like acceleration skills - "Kids get your
seat belts on" ... 'mom, ya think' and has Formula One like cornering
skills - I am pretty sure a few of my soccer buddies fudged their pants
on the way to practice.
24.Industrious - do you guys remember the fruit leather, corn canning, and
other preserve assembly lines? And she was never caught wanting of a
big can of "elbow grease".
25.Easily entertained - I entered every grade with the notion that I was
funny only to be sorely disappointed when the funny bar was raised.
26.a Tailor made lecturer (get it Taylor made) - DC84:85: "Neither take ye
thought beforehand what ye shall say; but treasure up in your minds
continually the words of life, and it shall be given you in the very
hour that portion that shall be meted unto every {child}."
27.Parsimonious - Have you ever in your life seen anyone since your
childhood cut the foulness off of a piece of produce to preserve 17% of
the remaining mass which is "OK" meaning only partially rotten.
28.a Listener - I still can't remember what I did at school but even 25
years later she would be willing to hear about if I do ever think of it.
29. drove a blue ribbon pillow to the state fair in Salem because you missed the 10 a.m. bus
30. made a small loaf of white bread for a Jr. high friend who loved Mrs. Bringhurst's bread...on several occasions
31. was able to ignore the tattling and whining of eight children
32. snuggling in her electric blanket bed listening to "The cay"
33. secret trips to Dell's Hamburger" for a root beer and fries out of a paper bag...always best that way!!
34. homemade cinnamon rolls in a wreath or candy cane shape at Christmas
35. patience enough to teach daughters how to sew
36. homemade jam always found in the fridge. I didn't even know the stores had jam.
37. a closet full of some of the funnest dress-up shoes...especially the silver ones with a rosette and glass heels. I was Cinderella in that full length mirror.
38. A dresser full of the prettiest jewelry..not to ever borrow...just fun to look at
39. When her daughter thought she was the next May-Lou Retton she drove clear to White City for gymnastic class twice a week back when the "new" Fred Meyer was built in the outskirts of town.
40. Still pushed her eight children to do piano despite many, many years of grumblings and countless dollars wasted when practicing was not done.
41. As I can fruit and feel satisfied I still think how my mom did 4 times as many peaches, pears, and applesauce and not to mention the many jars of cherries, beans, and grape juice; frozen corn, peaches, blackberries, huckleberries, raspberries, and the endless trays of dried fruit she would do. Yes, Jennie and Naoki you owe her big time for all the stolen fruit roll-ups.
42. I appreciated the fact that mom never put mustard on my sandwiches--who can remember the individual preferences of 8 different kids?
43. I thrilled at opening my lunch to see that she had chopped up pickles and put them on my tuna fish sandwich.
44. I felt loved by being able to choose my birthday dinner.
45. I looked forward to getting books at Christmas.
46. I enjoyed being read There's an Enemy Sub in Potter's Pond even when I was big enough that I could have read it myself.
47. I looked forward to the pretty Easter dresses she made us when we were little.
48. I chuckle now to think that she pretended not to notice when we were spying on her from under the table or in the large pine tree in the front yard.
49. I'm grateful that she forced me to take piano lessons until I could play the hymns.
50. I try to emulate her attention to detail in helping us with our projects at school.
51. I admire her service and dedication to the gospel and all those she has served over the years.
52. I marvel at how she got all of us to got to college and the hefty financial sacrifice that must have been.
53. I envy her lovely singing voice.
54. I honor her gift with words as I struggle to choose a different verb for each of my tributes to her!
55. I loved getting to go to the Dorothy Chandler Hall in L.A. to hear her sing the Messiah. I felt so hoity toity walking in where famous people have been, and going potty in those fancy bathrooms...even if I didn't have to go.
56. I felt special when she took me to see Annie when it was supposed to be just her Young Women.
57. I loved that her Young Women loved her. I knew my Mom was special but to have older, pretty girls love her too, made me feel good.
58. I loved our homemade gifts at Christmas time...towels with our names sewn on w/cute fabric, our pink, blue, and green block quilts, our jean quilts I know I could go on.
59. 4-H lambs in our van...need I say more!!!
60. Her love and sacrifice for her family was apparent, and her example of service to others is what we try to follow all our days.
We love you Mom and we honor you this day!

A life well spent...

2008-10-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

What a goofy bunch that I came from. I took this photo when I was 17 years old. We went to St. George where my Grandparents lived at the time and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. The oldest is Aunt Karen in the red, followed by my Dad on the far right (can't you tell,... he is the most handsome. Next is Uncle Todd (Brownsville bears), Uncle Ron in the striped shirt, followed by Aunt KayLynn, and last is Uncle Mark. I loved being around all of my uncles and aunts. They each have such unique and different personalities and so fun to pal around with.

Here is my very amateur photo of their celebration...*note the flash in the window...but they are the only pictures of the event. We all ate at the Hilton hotel banquet room...Thanksgiving style, as it was almost Thanksgiving. My favorite quote of that weekend was that the waiter came around and said "Soup or Salad"? My brother Justin who was 15 at the time said "Sure!"...thinking he was getting a SuperSalad!!! ...still makes me laugh...

And finally the reason for my post. John Frank Bringhurst, my grandpa, passed away yesterday at the age of 92. Every kid loves their Grandpa and I am no different. He was the only grandpa I knew since my maternal grandpa died when my mother was only 2 years old. This smile you see on his face was the expression he always had. I never heard a stern word ever leave his lips. I knew that he loved me. If I had a story to tell him he always acted as if it was the best thing he heard all day! I am grateful for his example of service. He served in the church up until he was no longer physically able and that includes being called as 2nd counselor in a bishopric when he was 86 years old. My grandpa loved his family and in his final sentence of his personal history he requested of them "May their lives be a good example for others to follow". I love you Grandpa!

I feel the Magic

2008-10-09T23:38:00.000-07:00

If you have not had the opportunity to visit Disneyland than you may not be able to relate. It is a feeling that hits you upon your arrival that says "Welcome Home". It can come from a sound (train pulling into depot), a smell (confections abound), hearing (Famous voice saying "Welcome to Disneyland"), touch (green painted fences around every well manicured horticulture masterpiece) or sight (Fireman band on Main Street). I was glad to come home!

Each well placed Imagineering creation beacons you further into the park.

Sight of the Matterhorn and hearing the screams of excitement with each encounter of the Abominable Snowman. Can't get enough!!

Famous Castle of the beloved Sleeping Beauty has shrunk over the years to me...but no less endearing. I was glad to be home to feel the magic once again!

Displays

2008-10-09T23:17:00.000-07:00

I loved walking around and looking at their displays. They were all amazing and they had 11,ooo of them. I could not help myself from capturing there charm.

This was at Woody's Halloween Roundup where they had Autumn displays everywhere. I was lovin' it.

Just havin' a good ol' game of Go fish!

I tried so hard to capture how adorable these cases were but my limited photography knowledge and lack of a fab camera were the culprits. Not to mention I left my sweet tripod at home so a lot of night shots were a little crummy. C'est la vie..I'll have to go back some day :)

Off the beatin' path

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

One of my very favorite pass times is to notice the unnoticeable. Disney is a master at that. It is so fun to look for what most perceive as atmosphere and gets lost in the blur. This picture is one you would find near the hub (place where all lands meet). Several pumpkins were around all with fun Disney cutouts.

This precious little guy is found also near the hub sitting on a little post. I loved the detail of the statue with the yellow in the background. I know, my photography skills (or lack of) are limited, but my goal is to keep improving. I refuse to be an adult that stops learning.

Anyone know where to find this??? I found this darling lamp on a table while in the queue for Tower of Terror. Most do not notice the existence. I loved the detail.

This one you probably recognize from the queue of Splash Mountain. I loved what it says. I think if Elder Worthlin saw it he would have included it in his conference talk.

Silly Pics

2008-10-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a few silly pics from the trip. I know....I am in every one. How can you stand in a net of mackerel and just smile?

Yep I waited in line to pose with the Goof! His costume was sweet!

Just cozying up to the Beasts' fireplace. Up above was the jar with a rose. Every few seconds a petal would fall...I won't give away what happens.

Growing up I used to relate to the white rabbit.."I'm late, I'm late!" But since marrying Mr. Annoyingly On Time Man, I have been cured.

Disneyland in the Fall

2008-10-05T21:28:00.000-07:00

Wow pictures of Shane and I without kids...rare in our home! We were able to fine a few people to take our pic

Cute to the 4th power. I loved looking at all of the display cases and the cute things they had in them

They had an area called Woody's Halloween Roundup. It was a quiet corner with a ton of Fall decor and a cute Woody show where the kids could color or decorate a halloween cookie. Since we were kidless we just kicked back and enjoyed the freedom!!!

As you enter the park they have huge pumpkin characters to greet you. At night they have twinkly lights on....such the sucker for twinkly lights. Even though I am exhausted I hate going back to my hotel at night...who am I kidding it is hard anytime to leave.

Zip a dee doo dah...

2008-10-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

For our 15th anniversary Shane and I escaped to Disneyland. We had so much fun playing around for four and a half days. This picture was taken in the Blue Bayou restaurant. It is the restaurant attached to Pirates of the Caribbean. We wanted to eat there for our honeymoon but discovered that it does not exist in Disney World. So 15 years later we got to go. It did not disappoint. The food was yummy and the atmosphere was fab!! What a great way to start off our trip.

I took a pic a this sign in the queue of Splash Mountain. I loved what it said..so true with my life! Shane and I grabbed fast passes for this ride and every time we did our wait was 12 minutes max. We watched other people wait 40-50 minutes in the regular line. WHY!!!! I don't get it. My next few posts will be of our trip so if you are not a fan, feel free to tune out.

My First Post

2008-10-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

So, I finnally found a picture with which I can post on the family blog site. Having no digital camera I had to scan this one in. I thought a post without a picture would be boring and might as well be an e-mail. This pic is a memento of the New York/D.C. trip Dad, Mom, Jenny, Amy and I took and the end of the summer. When touring the NBC studios we had the chance to digitally put our faces on a movie poster. Jeff and Jenny replaced Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale respectively in Van Helsing, and I replaced Henry Thomas in E.T. Prolly shoulda shaved...

The trip was fun, y'all missed out. Jenny's blue brained travel itinerary left nary an idle moment and Jeff and Justin's B and B services came off like a family sleepover, rather than cramped as we had feared. Dad's travelogue covered most of the highpoints. Just to fill in the gaps, he forgot Alice drawing pictures for me in church, smores in Justin backyard, Mcdonalds inside the Pentagon, The bus driver hitting a lamppost just before embarking, and practically running through the Museum of Natural History to see it all before they closed.

In New York there was the 8 ppl: 1 bathroom ratio, more wads of gum than I'll ever again see on the floor of just one subway station, searching the stands at the US Open to find Justin's bright yellow shirt, crazy ladies getting thrown out of the Red Sox/Yankees game, picking up other ppls empty alcohol receptacles for souvaneers, the coolest musical in the cozyest theatre I've ever seen, Mom forgetting her purse at Jeffs and having to take a later bus with Dad, a political discussion with New Yorkers on Barack Obama in the subway, a tennis discussion with Texas female sycophants also in the subway, running across the Brooklynn Bridge, and Ice cream on a pier along the river with a huge artificial waterfall in the background.

All in all, great trip. Just what I'd always wanted, without ever knowing it. Thank-you to everyone involved for letting me tag along last minute like.

Since it took me so long to post I also had my Birthday. It was cool, even though I had been dreading it. My friends bailed me out of an evening alone with my dark thoughts and the next day J.J. made me dinner, and the sweetest cake you've ever seen. Three snickers mini's each with a candle jammed in them, side by side in a cupcake foil. Truly an oiginal. I got a pic but it's on my phone and I can't upload it. Sorry this was so long, being my first post I had a lot to say.

lata - Jordan

Where in the world...?

2008-09-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

700 billion dollars to the first person to find Laura. (We were playing hind-n-go-seek again. Only 14 times this week.)

I knew this looked familiar!

2008-09-24T19:26:00.000-07:00

Blech!!

2008-09-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

Evan had gotten into the pantry and was eating something he definately did not want me to see. Yep! He ate not one but two birthday candles. I think he most enjoyed me digging out the wax from his mouth. He would bite me ...I would scream...he would laugh...I'd laugh...and we would repeat.

Spencer is the big 13!!

2008-09-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken in our old house while we were remodeling. There was a missionary who wore size 15 shoe. We had Spencer try them on...look at his cute chicken legs. Here are 13 reasons why I love this kid:

1. He has a heart the size of Alaska. He has always thought more of what someone else wants instead of himself.

2. When I was pregnant he used to take off my shoes and rub my feet with lotion without me asking him.

3. I used to ask him to put his nose in the corner when he had been naughty. He would end up being distracted by ants in the corner and would stay there for a long time.

4. He is our #1 go-to boy. Ask him to do anything and he will usually do it happily.

5. He used to skip recess to offer help to his 1st grade teacher that was recovering from breast cancer. (this was all done on his own) They have a bond to this day where she will come to events that he has invited her to.

6. When he was three I could get him up in the middle of the night to vacuum up humongous spiders when Shane was at work.

7. He still likes to hold my hand.

8. He still will ask for help in Math even though I hardly ever know the answer and he won't act surprised when I do know the answer.

9. He has good choices in friends and is a good friend to all.

10. He loves Disney almost as much as me...we used to lay in bed together at night and talk about Disneyland.

11. He will eat anything I put in front of him and quietly pick out the pieces he doesn't like.

12. He has a strong testimony of the gospel.

13. He is the best big brother in the world and treats his brother and sisters so good. They all love their Bubby!

Halleyisms...

2008-09-14T21:54:00.000-07:00

What she has been sayin' lately:

"Oh Man! It smells like a cod fish in here!!!"

"Whatever! I don't even know what you are talking about"

When Shane cleans out a baked potato he calls the skin a birds nest and fills it with butter and cheese. At dinner he asked Halley if she wanted her birds nest. "Nah, give it to the birds"

I have reconsidered posting the last one. You'll have to be a special someone and email me and I might tell ya!

What we've been up to...

2008-09-09T21:17:00.000-07:00

Wow, I am back to only two in Elementary school. Here is a pic of my pretty school girls. The last two weeks they have treated each other so good. I have been so proud of how they have acted.

Here is a pic of my preschool girl. We did not think she was going to preschool this year until sweet adopted Grandma Jan offered to teach preschool to her and Hope two days a week from 9-12. She used to be a preschool teacher and she has jumped in to this with both feet. Halley came home beaming with excitement today. Prayers of a mother and child answered!

Spencer decided to run Cross Country this year for Hedrick Middle School. He has done well even in this heat. Today was his first meet at Bear Creek Park with five other schools. There were 113 7th and 8th graders and he came in a respectable 61st place. He ran 1.8 miles in 14:54. In this picture he barely edges out an 8th grader in the finish. He has only practiced 3 days so I know he is excited to improve.

Here is a picture of Evan playing with a laundry basket. He has so much fun dumping all of the clean clothes out and either pushing it around, standing on it, sitting in it, or throwing it around. Sometimes he gets an extra burst of energy and throws two around at a time. What a nut. He reminds us of our first dog Gus. In the middle of the night we would hear this bonk..bonk..bonk. Over and over. We got up and found Gus picking up a bucket with his teeth and throwing it...hence the Bonk...bonk..bonk. It used to crack us up listening to it. I'm sure a sentiment our old neighbors didn't share.

Jordan's Graduation

2008-09-02T18:04:00.000-07:00

Jordan's graduation turned out to be a memorable event for all of us.

We were able to see him walk the platform and receive the diploma -- complete with a reception with President Samuelson.

Then we went to Education Week -- Julie, Wendell, Mark and Cindy Bringhurst, and Jordan all attended with us. As usual, it was like drinking from a fire hose, but most rewarding.

Then it was off to DC where we toured the Pentagon and did the usual touristy things. I will never tire of the touristy things around DC. We were luckily there for Laura's birthday, which was a blast.

Then we all traveled to the Big Apple to see Jeff and do all the New York touristy things.

We went to the Statue of Liberty

The Boston Red Socks treated us to a 11 - 3 victory over the Yankees in one of the last few games to be played in Yankee Stadium.

We had a great time at the US Open. Michael John joined us for that affair. We saw some great tennis and I was in heaven for one blissful day.

Our final day was spent seeing "Wicked", which all who attended felt was incredible. Justin and I spent the time at ESPN Zone watching the US Open and the University of Utah embarrass Michigan in the first football game weekend of the year.

Jeff was a perfect host, and somehow managed to bed us all down in his apartment. It couldn't have been a more fun-filled time.

Jedediah Smith

2008-08-27T13:26:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun on our camping trip to Jedediah. It is fun to camp, but it is really fun with other people. We tagged along with the Pedersen's, Whitney's and Shumway's. All the kids had someone to play with and the adult's did too. Highlights were hiking through the Redwoods, kids cliff jumping into the river, Evan's natural playpens (a rock one in the river, and a sand pit at the beach), setting up the Pedersen's ultra-lame canopy in the pouring rain, speedo boy or man or boy?, and who isn't saying bazooka, zooka bubblegum in their sleep? I wish I had more pics but my camera was never handy. Lots of laughing, playing, sand and smore's to be had! Thanks for the invite...we're ON for next year!!

We successfully pooped them out! Now if I could just get all my laundry done!

Hubba, Hubba Bubba

2008-08-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

I just loved this picture of Justin.

Laura turns two

2008-08-26T08:36:00.000-07:00

Happy second birthday to Laura. We were lucky enough to share her birthday with Papa John, Grandma Jeanne and Uncle Jordan.

Niner

2008-08-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

While Jecque and Shane were celebrating their 15 year of bliss Justin and I were totally oblivious to the day. It was 9:30 at night and Justin was watching the Olympics on the floor and I was crocheting on the couch when the light went one. I nudged him with my foot and said, "Hey you, happy anniversary." We laughed because we both totally forgot, which is much safer than one of us forgetting and the other one holding a grudge. We had a niner of a 9th anniversary. Can you say "Hello Hawaii!" for our tenth? I sure can.

Happy Anniversary to Us!

2008-08-19T13:09:00.000-07:00

Has it really been 15 years? It feels like we have known each other our whole lives and yet I don't feel any older, although from this picture it looks like we were 12 when we got married. Here are 15 great memories from the lives of Shane and Jacque...aside from the obvious children being born etc..(that would eat up 5 of my top 15).
1. Honeymoon in Disney World. For those of you who don't know I have loved Disney all my life. I went to Disneyland a lot as a kid because we lived down there and when friends came from out of town we took them to Disneyland. I always thought I would go camping on my honeymoon. Silver Falls was the location I imagined but that was only because Mormons didn't go on extravagant honeymoons. They go to the coast.
2. Seattle. I loved the month that we had together with no job and lots of free time. The drives we took to Enumclaw, Snowqualmie Falls, Fall City, and Canada.
3. Pedersen Ski and Sports. Though it wasn't my favorite job it was a cool job. Our shop looked cool and we sold cool stuff. I loved when the new skis and boards got shipped to us because it was like Christmas seeing all our new equipment.
4. Nursing school. Man that was some hard times but it was exciting to know that it was the poorest we would ever get...hopefully!
5. Shopping for our first home. Can you believe we got it for $93,000? We put so much of ourselves into that home, it is hard for any home to compare...600 square foot addition (I miss our fireplace), new kitchen, sprinkler system, new lawns, back patio, covered carport (boat port).
6. Trips to Alaska. I feel like those were the ultimate field trip. The Last Frontier. It is a vacation like no other. Our family got to experience things unimaginable...kayaking, salmon fishing in a river near a black bear, humpback whale spotting, boating near icebergs with sea lions, railroad trip from Skagway over scary bridge, small plane trip over Alaska wilderness.
7. Trip to Disney World with Doobie. We hated to share a getaway with him but it ended up being fun side conversation.
8. Trip to Disney World and the Florida Keys with Naoki and Jenny. At first I felt guilty going back without kids but I soon recovered. How fun to go with others that we like. Florida Keys were fun...loved Key West.
9. Greatest gift giver in the world. It is not just what you would give, it was the way you would give it to me. You are so thoughtful as to what I would really like and the presentation has always been part of the gift.
10. Fun trips with friends. I have loved all of our goofy adventures with the many wonderful friends we have made over the years. Horseback riding with the Deane's; Billy Joel with the Bryant's; Sun River, Huckleberry picking, Mill Creek Falls, and Gooseneck Cove with the Dunn's.
11. Cooking for you. You have been so easy to cook for. You have never complained and only occasionally teased. I have never stressed because you will eat anything and will act just as happy if I say it is sandwich night because I can't face dinner.
12. Mutual understanding for hobbies. You have been supportive of all the hobbies I have pursued over the years: card making, scrap booking, woodcutting crafts, and singing. I have tried to be equally supportive of hunting, scuba diving and travel...
13. Speaking of singing, traveling and amazing gifts...Singing through Switzerland was a definite highlight. Touring through Lucerne, riding the cable car up Mt. Pilatus and swishing down on a luge.
14. Singing in Germany. Touring castles, and cathedrals and Olympic stadiums from Hitlers day was unsurpassed. How about YMCA with the town Oompa pah band. Classic!!
15. Singing in Austria. What an honor to sing in Mozart's hometown for his 250th birthday celebration. To see the sights of Sound of Music, and castles of past royalty. I will never forget climbing the heights of the Alps to see Austria, Switzerland, Italy, and Germany all at once.
What a marvelous 15 it has been and I look forward to another 15. Happy Anniversary to those we share it with: Justin and Jennie; Savannah and Adam; The Cobains; and Happy Birthday Naoki

Recovery

2008-08-13T13:04:00.000-07:00

Alice has said adios to her tonsils and adenoids this last week. She has been a steller patient and recovery has been fairly easy. Good bye to sleep apnea, snoring and small appetite...hopefully.

These pictures were taken at a park next to the Potomac River in Old Town Alexandria. It was a beautiful day and we just enjoyed walking around looking at boats. I love those easy outings that everyone can enjoy...they're usually free and family friendly. Next time we're bringing a picknick lunch, for sure. I hope everyone enjoys that last few days and weeks of summer before school starts. We're living up the lazy life before the rigors of kindergarten start in. (Because we all know how rough kindergarten can be, right;) )

Olympic Trivia

2008-08-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

Disregard our very dated attire and try and name this crush of mine. I was at my cousins wedding and apparently she married his cousin. Unfortunately our love was not meant to be because we were somewhat related. But this event did elevate my status in seminary where I was constantly tormented by "two who shall remain nameless". Not that I cared to be liked by them, I just loved being envied by them. Who is this hunk of burnin' love?

A Few Thoughts

2008-08-11T00:27:00.000-07:00

What a weekend this has shaped up to be. All the hype and anticipation has paid off so far. The opening ceremonies was unforgettable. It was visually, artistically, and technically unsurpassed. Favorite moments had to be the human painters, the electric drummers, the entrance of the Chinese team with that stirring story of the young hero, and the lighting of the torch. I have enjoyed every minute of this weekend (except for boxing) that was filled with cycling, gymnastics, swimming, fencing (what was up with those screamin' girls?), and rowing. The highlight though has to be the race that kept me up until past midnight last night. Missed it? Click http://www.nbcolympics.com/video/player.html?assetid=0811_hd_swb_hl_l0194 to see the event that only happens in the Olympics.

It's Official...I am my Mother

2008-08-07T14:42:00.000-07:00

As a kid, I can remember this time of year very clearly. Harvest Time. The time of year when we would can and preserve everything under the sun. I remember standing at the sink with my Mom endlessly peeling pears, and slipping the skins of peaches and tomatoes for canning. I think she called it slipping the skins to make it sound easier. I remember the kitchen feeling very humid all throughout August because the juicer or canner was going nonstop. She would bottle pears, peaches, tomatoes, and cherries. Turn grapes into grape juice..(I can still see the cheesecloth hanging from our cabinets), apples into applesauce, and dry fruit for amazing fruit leather (which we could have easily traded for Hostess but never wanted too...usually). She would make strawberry and raspberry jam, and freeze fruit of all sorts for pies and cobblers and milkshakes.
These past few weeks that same drive has been pushing me to fill my freezer and stock my shelves. This morning I had to pick up two of my children in Ashland because they had been camping with Grandpa and Grandma at Howard Prairie. I decided that we could pick a few blackberries because we were already near some good picking spots. We drove around for a while trying to find a place that was easy to park off the road and was safe for my kids to pick. Not an easy task. We tried several spots and nothing was working. Finally I found a little spot off a road that is off a road in Talent (not willing to divulge secret picking spot). Spencer soon realized that the best picking was to jump down a ravine into an orchard...probably belonging to Harry and David...serious trespassing. We begin to pick when two of my kids had to go potty. Trespassing and indecent exposure. Awesome! What we had was a gold mine. A fat, juicy, black gold mine. Spencer and I couldn't quit. When we had filled our buckets we dumped out Halley's to refill it with black, not red berries. Each car that drove past made us panic because we were clearly in a place we shouldn't be, but we couldn't help it. The berries were calling our names. We felt like Peter Cottontail trying to pick before Mr. McGregor saw us. We finished picking 22 pints, climbed up the ravine and sped away. Upon leaving we notice a man working in the orchard. Yikes, How did he not hear us? A: He is deaf, B: He was listening to his Ipod or C: He thought everything we were saying was hilarious and made his work less tedious. I choose C.
As I was driving home I had to smile thinking of the ways my mom used to bribe us to pick berries, usually with a 32oz root beer. No root beer bribing here, just pure rush of adrenaline kept this picking crew on the go.

Happy Birthday Bub

2008-08-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Wanted to let you know you are loved by many on this special day. One of my favorite memories is when I was really mad at him. He used to really frustrate me with his stubborn ways. Well on this occasion I punched him I was so mad. Realizing what I just did I took off running. I knew he couldn't beat the crap out of me if he couldn't catch me. I ran outside, across the lawn, over the rock driveway(barefoot), hopped the fence to the back pasture, ran all over the pasture(still barefoot), hopped the fence again, back to the lawn and collapsed. I was laying on my back and Justin was on top of me. Neither one of us could do anything we were huffing and puffing so hard. Finally we burst into laughter and stood up. After we finished laughing he shoved me and walked off. I realized I just had the luckiest day of my life because he could have (and would have), given me so much more.
I have always:
1. Loved your laugh
2. Loved the stories you tell of our childhood (Jaime Hudson demonstrating Juliet backing up into our car..classic)
3. Hated how photogenic you always were (never went through the awkward years)
4. Admired the Dad you have become
5. Been proud of your post high school grades
6. Been grateful you married Jenny

Happy Birthday Bubba! Wish you weren't so far away.

With God Nothing is impossible

2008-07-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

A lot of you know that I have taken up the challenge with a few friends to read the Book of Mormon this summer. I have also been reading 1776 at the same time and I have been so inspired by the thought that if it is God's will it shall be done. As I read a few chapters each day I see such similarities, in that, the numbers and experience do not always have to be on your side to accomplish amazing feats. I found as I read Alma 56, I knew the history behind those young boys who became known as the 2000 strippling warriors, and I became so engrossed in their story as they headed off to battle. Helaman their leader, knowing that their enemy was waiting, asked these young boys if their were ready to go to battle. Helaman wrote an epistle to Moroni stating that never has he seen so great courage. These young warriors stated that "...behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall." Helaman continues that "...they did think more upon their liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them." He states in the end that "to my great joy, there had not one soul of them fallen to the earth; yea, and they had fought as if with the strength of God;"
In reading these two books I doubt my faith will be tested in a battle with swords and shields; but more likely the battle of the adversary trying to penetrate my home and all I hold dear. May my faith be strengthened to fight with such persistence and such courage that I can teach my children the skills that they need to be "in the world" but not "off the world"

What in the What What???

2008-07-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

I don't know what America was thinking when this guy got voted off. I know that the competition is starting to get stiff but Mark? getting to stay....even he was amazed. I don't know a lot about dance but Will was beautiful to watch. Fast forward the video to 1:12 to the beginning of the Pas de deux. Enjoy!

biking to bridal veil falls

2008-07-27T21:55:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Pioneer Day with a little trip biking up Provo Canyon. Beckett loves riding his bike he got for his birthday and Garrett has taken over the spot behind Dad. The boys had a blast playing in the water at the base of the falls. Beckett was trying to cool off by dipping his hair in the water and ended up doing a forward roll. Luckily Juliet had the camera ready. Beckett and Dad took a hike up to the base of the falls before our

ride back down.

Round One...Evan

2008-07-27T18:35:00.000-07:00

It is so funny to me how a one year old can always have the upper hand. They cry, you shove yummy food their way. They cry, and someone lovingly disposes their waste. They cry, and they receive a nice soothing cuddle with a blankie and a pacifyer. Shane today had his feet up in a recliner drinking a soda. Evan walked over and started licking the top of the can. Shane lifted the soda and put it in his other hand. Evan walked all the way around Shane's reclined feet to take a sip. Shane again put the soda in his other hand and Evan walked all the way around his reclined feet to try and take a sip. This process went on for a few rounds and Shane and Spencer were very entertained. Finally as Evan walked around his feet again to try for the soda he bent down and bit his dads toe... HARD. That'll teach ya!

Must Haves

2008-07-24T14:23:00.000-07:00

Summertime can have so much craziness with five kids and very little in my gas tank. I started thinking about my summer must haves that have made me happy.
1. Camera in my purse. I don't know how many years, and how many moments have passed. I love the security that "I can" if I want to.
2. Shane's scooter. A lot more fun than I thought and great bribery for the kids. Also I can send Shane on errands normally he would be annoyed by, but not with Lil' Red. Just have to make sure it will fit under his seat.
3. SYTYCD. Are you are a lover of Chelsey, Joshua, Will, Courtney, Comfort, Twitch, Mark, or what's her name that almost didn't make the show? Either way it is great entertainment that I look forward to each week.
4. My pool. Glory, Glory Halleluyia! I love that my kids play outside. After how many years of "It's too hot", "There's nothing to do", "I'm bored". Yippee!!
5. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. 30 minutes of heaven for me! Evan will sit captivated for the entire show and clap and be so pleased, and think that I am the best Mom in the world. How things will change.
6. Soon to be Olympics!! I am so excited for them to start. I am a complete couch potato and feel noooo guilt.
7. My Book of Mormon reading challenge. What a better person I have become and been able to be more disciplined. Thank you Jill.
There you have it! I am sur there are more but I have jam to finish. What are your summer must haves?

"When pioneer's move to the west..."

2008-07-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

My kids have always loved Pioneer Day even though we have never lived in Utah where it is a state holiday. Here is a picture of my kids recreating their own pioneer experience in our unlandscaped backyard 2 years ago. Spencer is driving the team; Lindsay and Halley are hidin' out in the wagon, Brea is...I don't have a clue.

I think it was about 98 degrees that day.

Evan eatin' a Dum Dum at this years celebration. He was unimpressed. He is sportin' a vest that was my brother's about 33ish years ago.

My cute little pioneers. Lindsay and Halley are wearing dresses that were my sister's about 18 years ago.

"Find a happy place, find a happy place."

2008-07-20T18:23:00.000-07:00

While Justin has been away on a business trip, we've been trying to stay busy and happy. While we're not in the ER we play hide-n-go seek. The girls couldn't not find me to save their lives in this silly spot. They walked by me EIGHT times before I strated yelping to give them a clue. They found me under my bed, in their closet, behind the shower curtain...all places that took a small amount of effort. But when I was in the middle of the floor and large parts of me giving me away, I was invisible to their little eyes.

I have to thank Alice for the picture. She thought my hiding spot was pretty funny, once exposed, and she wanted a picture. It was her first time on the business end of a camera.

Femininity

2008-07-18T22:28:00.000-07:00

As I have been enjoying my baby boy and all the boy things he does like throw balls and drive cars. It caused me to reflect on how I am different from Shane. When we go for a walk I love to stop and smell flowers..he comments on the weeds that are growing around them. When we get ready to go somewhere I am matching shoes to my outfit and searching for just the right shade of lipstick...he is hoping to dress as casual as he can get away with. I don't know if some of my quirkines is just me or if it is relatable to all girls. I hate the smell of my kids after they have been playing outside. I hate ants, earwigs, spiders, etc. especially in my kitchen. Some name brand foods are worth it ie: Best Foods Mayo, Oreo cookie, Honey Maid Graham crackers to name a few. Telling me that I look "fine" is not a compliment. It doesn't matter how many times I have seen Dumbo, Rocky II, and Apollo 13 I cry every time!!! Is it just me or did every girl want to marry Gilbert Blythe? I don't care who calls it a chick flick, "Message in a Bottle" is not a flick for this chick! Okay girls, what do ya think?

Just Pretending...

2008-07-17T23:25:00.000-07:00

I know I am an adult, but sometimes I like to pretend. As a child when I would have to do my chores I would create elaborate soap operas in my mind to help me get through the drudgery. I find myself still "pretending", to trick myself into trying or doing things "not me". This picture was me pretending that I am a photographer with a fabulous camera trying to capture on film what I saw. Sometimes when I clean my house I pretend I am ????(anonymous friend who is a fabulous house cleaner) and I take care of the little junk piles that normally I am immune to. I find that I use this technique more times than I will share (can't give away all my secrets)probably because I am surrounded by such fabulous women each with their own unique gifts. Do you have any secrets or tricks to becoming a better person???

Hot Potato

2008-07-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

I guess this means that I'm supposed to answer these questions now. I'm sorry in advance for that the lack of interesting things to report.

1. What were you doing 10 years ago? Ten years ago I was in college at Ricks and was just about to meet the person I would marry and spend forever with.

2. 5 things on your to do list today? Take Justin to the airport, nap:), church, email some reminders to Primary teachers, and make a countdown calendar for Alice. Justin will be gone for two weeks and Alice wants to cross off each day until he comes home.

3. 5 snacks I enjoy? Swiss cheese on Wheat-Thins, almonds, peanut butter on apples, anything salty, and my Dad's baklava.

4. What would I do if I was suddenly a billionaire? First, I would pick my self up off the floor. I would buy our perfect house for our little family. Then save the rest for gas money.

5. 3 bad habits? I watch way too much tv. I don't clean the dryer vent each time I dry a load...or even ever five loads. It's drives Justin crazy. I buy way too many hand bags, I love them.

6. 5 places I've lived? Littleton, Colorado; Thousand Oaks, California; Delafield, Wisconsin; Plano, Texas; Woodbridge, Virginia

7. 5 jobs I had? My first job was in fast food, Arby's. I was also an elf that took pictures of kids sitting on Santa's lap during Christmas time at the mall. I was a delivery girl for a dental lab. During college I was a Resident Manager for a company that supported mentally handicapped folks living on their own. And now I'm a mom.

8. 5 things people don't know about me? I'm not sure I can think of much here, but I scrape the barrel. I danced ballet when I was a child. In my gymnastics class when I was young, I held the push-up record for a very short time. 68! Now I can't even pump one out, it's sad, I know. I hate to pay full price for anything. My heaven is a great thrift store. I've never cooked a turkey. I've never traveled out of the country...unlike little miss Jessica over there. Humph!

I tag...Breanna, Mary, Jeff, Naoki, and Wendell.

Posting by Proxy

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

Quite a while ago I tagged a few people to answer 8 questions about themselves. Dad responded but he did it as a comment. I am sure my extended family would like to read it but are not blog savvy as to find it. So hear goes... I am supposed to tag 5 people at the end of this. Instructions:
1. Post the rules
2. Answer all the questions about yourself
3. After you are done posting tag 5 people

1.What were you doing 10 years ago? Ten years ago I had moved up here to Alaska and was waiting for my family to join me. I was living in the Marine View apartments, where we had a great view of all the marine traffic up and down the Narrows. Julie was the first to come up here and join me and we went Orca whale observing out in the Narrows and had a pod of Orcas pass right under our boat -- with Julie sitting out on the bow.

2. 5 things on your to do list today? Finish the hospital budget; have family home evening with someone other than just Jeanne and me (Jessica arrived yesterday); finish the King Salmon we were given yesterday, but it was way too big to eat in one sitting; plant some more spring flowers; enter something in this blog.

3. 5 snacks I enjoy? Jeanne's chocolate-chip cookies, pickled hearing on crackers, summer sausage on Ritz crackers, Fritos and Coke, V-8 juice (how did that get in there?).
4. What would I do if I was suddenly a billionaire? Set up an endowment that would help this poor, financially strapped hospital; buy Jeanne a new car; retire and learn how to fly fish.
5. 3 Bad habits? Writing in "blogs" when I should be working; falling asleep in sacrament meeting; being too critical of others.
6. 5 places I've lived? Layton, Utah; Logan, Utah; Heidelberg, Germany; Indianapolis Indiana; Des Moines, Iowa.
7. 5 jobs I've had? 1. meat cutter at Smith's Grocery; 2. laid railroad track at Free Port; 3. painted girls dormitories at Utah State University; 4. painted dairy barns in Logan; 5. worked in the computer lab at Northwestern University.
8. 5 things that people don't know about me? Secret #1, Secret #2, Secret #3, Secret #4, Secret #5.

I tag.... Jeanne, Justin, Jenny Bringhurst, Spencer, Justine