Happiness is a Choice

Who's a Stalker?

2011-06-01T11:48:00.000-07:00

I'm a Stalker.....no, I'm serious....I stalk people
with blogs. Dedicated people that actually do blog
every single day.
They give me so much entertainment, and
sometimes education.

And what do I do in return....? I Stalk them.

Every single day I go into my own blog to hook
up to their blogs and you know what?....When they
don't have anything new.. I pout!

Now, I am the LAST person to do such a thing as
I am such a slacker when it comes to posting.
And yet.... I still do it!

To some of my favorite targets I must, with head hung low,
apologize for my very boorish behavior. I take and take never
giving a thought to giving back...but their words are so insightful
and full of humor and just fun to read.. I can't stop myself.

I don't even want to stop myself. Its fun and entertaining and gives me
the sense that I am a social being (which everyone knows I am NOT).

To Jenifer and Dawn and Tara and Jenny and Ree and Missy and Heidi and Nie and
cjane, I only wish I could sincerely apologize for my behavior, but I wont
because apologizing means I won't do it again.... AND I will!

As a matter of fact I plan to do a little blog surfing right now!
Don't say you haven't been warned. bwaahaaahaaaa!

Ramblings of a traveling Spirit

2011-05-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

TIME...What an interesting concept time is.....

For instance, how long has it been since my last post?

just a question

It's been awhile..I know

It isn't because there hasn't been stuff

to write about...

you know....good stuff!

We have had a new grandbaby since I last posted

a beautiful little boy, what a blessing!

and a son and his family moved back up here after getting a super duper job
with SkyWest.

My niece and her little fam have moved back home
after a long stint of being too far away from us.

We also found that we will be grandparents again
for the 12th time..... Man this NEVER gets old!!!!!

There have been many miles added to our frequent flyer
cards and also to the family truckster as we continue our
saga of meeting new and great people and seeing new
and greater places.

What a joy life can be..even with the challenges in life.
Without the challenges, the joy would never be so embraced.
What a strange contradiction that is.

Time can be a blessing or a curse depending on which side
of the aisle you are sitting on. Mostly I think it is a blessing.
There is sooooo much to do and so little time to get it all
done in. That is really why I haven't posted in so long....

If the truth be told.

Flying the Friendly Skies

2011-03-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

My, how Time Flies! It has been 2 months since I last posted anything
and I am feeling a bit discombobulated (sorry, I am sure the spelling is bad,
not a word I write all that often)

Travel has been my middle name over the past 58 days,
I think I slept in my own bed a total of 4 days in January.

Some of my time was spent on Leisure, I will confess to that,
but a great amount was also spent on business.
(you know the thing that pays the rent and keeps the lights on)

Fortunately my business gives me opportunity to stretch my mind and
spend time around people.
(Not something, if left to my own devices, I would find myself doing.)
And so I feel quite content with the way I have spent my time,
and also exhausted.

March will give me time to regroup and recuperate as we will be home
at least half the month. I only wish that March weather made the 'staying at
home' part a bit more pleasant.

I shouldn't really complain too loudly as the bulk of my time away was
spent in sunny climates with shirtsleeve temperatures. But don't worry
we spent our share of time in the blustery weather of Colorado and Utah.

I also have been in Spokane Washington where my horizons were broadened
and my mind paradigm was shifted as I learned all about being alkaline and
healthy. May I say, Our bodies are truly miraculous things and what we do
to them can sometimes be nothing short of criminal.

It truly has been a remarkable 58 days and if only my lovely children and
grandchildren had been within arms reach it would have been a perfect
scenario, but that did make home draw me as a magnetic is drawn to
true north.

I am hopeful that it will not be another 2 months before posting something

but I am making no promises!

Momza oh Momza oh where have you gone!

2011-01-01T12:13:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T11:33:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, it is time to welcome In yet another new decade and I am pretty excited for what this new year holds in store.

For some reason I am very excited for this upcoming year. Maybe it is because a new grandchild is expected! And wonderful opportunities are just around every corner, and the anticipation is killing me.

I will also try to do a better job of keeping my blog up-to-date. Hey, that can be my new years resolution. Keeping my life better documented. What New Years resolutions are you making? care to share?

Auld Lang Syne

2010-12-28T12:25:00.000-08:00

Hi all,
Christmas is officially over and I am secretly glad....don't get me wrong,I love Christmas and everything that comes along with that. I love the family gatherings and the lights and the joy and happiness that people seem much more prone to display at Christmas time. But.....it is time to move forward. And that is exactly what we did. We took down the REAL tree the day after Christmas because it had become so dry and as long as we were in the take down mode we moved on to the tree in the kitchen. I love the tree that we put up in the kitchen, it is a full 9 feet and I decorate it to make me happy, but it has been up since the first of November (yes, you read that correctly) which meant it had done its job and did it well. Furniture was moved back in and tiny villages were packed away until next year. I usually have a little bit of sadness when I undecorate after the holidays but it hasn't materialized. Maybe that is because I have so much that I am looking forward to in this new year. For one thing we have a new grandson coming the first part of February. I also have a little trip to the tropics around the same time. If 2011 is anything like 2010 it will race by so quickly that soon I will be pulling the tree up out of the basement and enjoying the holidays again.

Change is Good?

2010-11-21T07:56:00.000-08:00

We are making a few changes around our house, not really a remodel but still holes are being made in walls and wire is being threaded.
It is a little disconcerting to me to make a hole (even a neat hole) in a perfectly good wall.

Sometimes you have to make things worse before you can make things better.
I guess the same thing can be said of a myriad of things.
Still, sometimes it feels that we live in a never ending construction zone.
Luckily Mr Darcy is a whiz at destroying things and then building them back up!
If only he had the time to finish his projects.

A perfect Thanksgiving Roll

2010-11-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

We love bread at our house and this recipe which is found in 'The Essential Mormon Cookbook' is a perfect recipe. It is made a day ahead and refrigerated and it is 'fool proof', I am living proof.

Feather Light Overnight Rolls

1 C water
1 C butter (2 sticks)
3/4 C sugar
2 t. salt
1 C cold water
2 (.25 ounce) packages yeast
1/2 C warm water
4 eggs, beaten
7 1/2 C flour
Butter for spreading on dough

In a 6 quart pan bring the 1 cup water to a boil. Add the 1 C butter, sugar and salt. Remove from heat. Add the 1 C cold water. Dissolve yeast in the 1/2 C warm water (not hot). When first mixture is lukewarm, add yeast mixture and beaten eggs. Stir briefly. Add flour and stir together. Cover pan with lid and refrigerate overnight. When ready to roll out, divide dough in thirds. Lightly flour surface of bread board. Roll each third out in a large circle about 1/2 inch think. Spread dough lightly with butter. Cut dough into wedges and roll each up, beginning at the wide end, to form a crescent shape. Place on 3 greased baking sheets ( 12 rolls per sheet). Let rise about 4 hours. Bake at 400 for about 12 minutes. Makes 3 dozen rolls.

I am telling you what, everyone in my family LOVES these and requests them for every get together. I am taking them to Thanksgiving dinner this year as Sissy, the gorgeous one, is hosting it at her house. (Thanks baby girl, I love you tons). Anyone can and should make these for their family gatherings, they make you look like a baker extraordinaire. (I wish I had a picture to attach of all of my children and grandkids enjoying them but no one would stop eating them long enough to take the picture.)

As a side note: if you do not already own the cookbook that I mentioned above, you MUST get it. Every recipe in it is fabulous (at least all that I have tried have been).

Note to self..Not another lame excuse

2010-11-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

What is the deal? why are you not getting with the program.
What is the deal with your procrastinating nature?

You know you will feel so much better when you get
your assignments accomplished don't you? It will
give you a well earned sigh of relief and you know how
good that will feel.

The Relief Society Christmas Party is coming closer,
and closer, and closer and you know you must get to
it! Like right now. Hey! don't think I don't see you trying
to hide behind this computer screen...put this thing down
and get to work making those phone calls.....
I tell you what....sometimes I am such a task master!

Note to Self

2010-11-02T12:21:00.000-07:00

The time has come to acknowledge all my blessings.
Sometimes I get caught up in the day to day grind and
find myself focusing on the things I lack instead of the
things I am blessed with.

So......I have decided that I will focus on the good, and
with that give thanks for all that I have been blessed with.

I am making myself a gratitude journal that I can keep with
me and will serve as a reminder when I am down in the
dumps and having a pity party.

I will keep you posted self about my progress.

What a bunch of Characters!

2010-11-01T12:10:00.000-07:00

It is said that you become like who you spend time with.

So what do the following pictures say about me and mine?

I know, and I am thrilled! I love that I might have some kind of a connection with the Wonderful World of Disneyland! Even if it is through association, I'm good with that!

This was a truly, superbly, spectacular visit at my home away from home because Mr Darcy and I chose to spend this amazing 12 hours with our oldest granddaughter. That's right , my favorite place with one of my favorite people. It was true perfection, the weather, the crowds, the amazing water show at the end of the evening, the incredible breakfast with the characters...Sigh...what more can one expect?

Nothing....it was perfection!

Sharing

2010-10-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

Today is a wonderful day! Today we are flying away!

We are going to take our beloved oldest granddaughter
to Disneyland today for her birthday!!!!!
We will fly out today and spend tomorrow, all day long at
Disneyland and California Adventure!

I love sharing something I love, with someone I love, and I
know that Si-Si is as excited as I am.
We have been calling each other all week with the
countdown and now it is HERE!

Seasarino, we are GOING today!!! How excited are we?

I just love Weddings!

2010-10-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

What a fabulous weekend we just experienced. My darling niece was married in the St George Temple on Saturday and she was simply beautiful. My family is so fortunate to have a dad and grandpa that is a sealer and he has sealed all of his 10 grandkids that have been married. It was a dear ceremony and I was grateful that I was there to witness. it.

My beautiful niece and new nephew

My sis and her hubby and the newlyweds

It also gave us an excuse to get together with all of my little babies and their little babies. To sit in that beautiful temple surrounded by everyone that means the most to me on this earth is a heavenly experience. I was thrilled. I spent the time lovin on my little ones and enjoying my life.
Here are a couple of photos so you can feel a part of the action.

My gorgeous nieces

The beautiful cake that my talented daughter made

My dearest parents with my youngest adorable grandson

My talented and beautiful daughter kissing her simply scrumptious Fazy

The happy little couple at their reception

A view of the amazing quilt my sister made for them

Friend

2010-10-13T16:22:00.000-07:00

I just met one of my Heroes.

I have been blogging for a couple of years now
and I have been privileged to meet some incredible
human beings.

May I say that I much prefer to gain a friendship with
someone through their thoughts and feelings about things
that are important to them.
It makes me feel bonded to them in a way that just
a meeting in person and surface conversation just can't deliver.

It also makes me feel very humbled to get to know
people that I otherwise would NEVER have the
opportunity to meet.

Thank you Momza for letting me Drop in on you and
still be greeted with such a warm and gracious greeting.

It has long been one of my desires to meet you in person,
and the bonus was that I was able to meet a lot of your
special yahoos.

I want you to know that your friendship is dear to me. And I
hope that this is the beginning of a long and lasting friendship.

My bucket is Full!

2010-09-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

Mr Darcy has a bucket list and recently he has been marking off a few things. Well this past weekend he checked off one more thing, he went to a professional football game in Denver Colorado with our good friends Roger and Judy. He had a fabulous time and we are so grateful to our friends Fred and Shirley for supplying the tickets.

My women at the Well!

2010-09-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

Being socially inept, I find reading people's blogs a very fulfilling and uplifting way of being social in spite of my inabilities.

That being said I want to share with you women that make my life fun and give me uplifting moments all at the same time.

Momza over at Momzas house is a dear friend I have never met. She constantly gives me food for thought and a chuckle a day. I love you Momza!

CJane is another woman I admire and wish to emulate. She writes beautifully and is not ashamed to put it all out there. She shares deeply personal realizations and that gives me so much tenderness for her sensitive spirit. Thank you so much Courtney Jane!

Stephanie Nielsen is another AMAZING person I have met through blogdom. She is the strongest and most inspirational person on the planet. She lives and loves and shares her gratitude through trials and tribulations and continues to insert laughter and entertainment to the masses. What a woman, and she has the most beautiful eyes! Thank you Nie Nie.

Karen is another wonderful, dear, kind, spirit that emulates love and tenderness for her amazing family. They are obviously the 'light in her life' (as well as Dan the man) and her example lifts and edifies me on a daily basis. Karen you give me such hope for the future and the present and I can't thank you enough.

Jenifer at Gordon Gossip is nothing short of miraculous. She carries me along on her travels in the real world as well as in the blog world giving me insights into a much bigger world then I am aware of. Jenifer you are one of my heros!

My darling niece Tara is a true light for me. She has spent the bulk of her married life far, far away from the extended family that she loves so madly and yet she has brought a light of truth to those fortunate enough to live close by to her and has strengthened and built the kingdom where ever she has been. Tenalyn you are amazing and you fill my heart with pride.

My own darling offspring is another amazing talented, crafty young thing that I adore beyond measure and words. She is a true example to me of what is good and kind in all the world. Her very presence gives me a sense that there is a supreme being and he loves me very much. I love you Sissy!

To those I haven't mentioned Yet, I will, so stay tuned.

LOVEly

2010-09-16T10:33:00.000-07:00

I want to share the jewels in my crown! Sigh....They are so GORGEOUS I can't even stand it! How can I even be so lucky to share my life with these ethereal, angelic creatures? I look at them and know that my Father in Heaven loves me so much!

Change is good?

2010-09-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, it has been a while since I posted anything and to be honest it has been just as long since I spent much time at all even looking at others blogs.

It has been CRAZY busy in my life this summer and I have spent the bulk of it on the road. So you can imagine my surprise when I looked at my blog and found that photo bucket (whoever they are) had taken the place of all the cuteness of the blog background I had selected. So, I have been attempting to change and redecorate my blog and I truly had a moment when I thought I had completely destroyed anything I had written over the past couple of years. Whew, I was relieved when I accidentally found the old blog and was able to recreate and then change it.

Hopefully all who stop by can now see and read what is here. Crossing my fingers on that one.

She is really a 10!

2010-08-28T14:29:00.001-07:00

We have been traveling around a lot lately,
ya know, with our business, and
we happened across Tuscon and we took
the opportunity to visit with our little niece
Tenalyn.

It was so wonderful to see her,
sometimes you just need to hug your family.
It was a quick visit but she welcomed us with
open arms and we were loved on and sent
on our way.

What a wonderful plan it was to give us
Families!
We are so grateful for the love of family
and friends.
This has been a wonderful trip, but it was
made outstanding by the love and
attention of our darling Niece.

Thanks Ten! We LOVE you!

Wishing well

2010-08-08T06:37:00.000-07:00

I was blog surfing and came across Momza's Wish List post.
It got me to thinkin.....
What would I put on my wish list?

My world is very full
I have everything I need
and a ton of stuff that I want.
You wouldn't think this would be that hard
but it is!

What do I wish for......
What do I wish for .....Hmmmmmm?

Ok, here goes

I wish for ........
* a sauce pan that sits still when it is on the stovetop heating up
(it got warped in one of my, if med heat is good, High must be better
cooking episodes).
* a chance to see my little grand babies everyday (all 10 of them).
* better organizational skills
* better communication skills
* the ability to be nicer to people naturally without having to work at it.
* that 'Sunday Feeling' to last all week.
* a Williams-Sonoma baby food maker for my Daughter-in-law.
* that dead spot in my lawn would go away.
and finally, I wish for world peace.

Man, I better get going, this list could keep me busy all afternoon.

Gossip anyone?

2010-08-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

I have a darling friend, Jen at Gordon Gossip. As a matter of fact I think of her as my personal assistant. She doesn't know that she is my personal assistant but the fact is she is constantly on the lookout in blog world for wonderful ideas that lighten and brighten my day, makes her just that. I have used many an idea that she has brought to my attention, and while the ideas may not be hers exactly, she is the carrier, and I love it!

It would be a very good idea for any of you out there to visit her blog as she has fabulous taste and apparently she knows how to use her time so wisely she has time to be my personal assistant.

Thanks my dear friend!

Spell check

2010-08-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

I just read my post from yesterday about favorite words and realized that I had misspelled the word misspelled, Crazy huh? How do you do that? I mean with spell check and everything, it seems inexcusable (another tough word to spell). But luckily I could just quickly run into edit posts and fix my snafu, oh if only we could do that with life as well. Not that you can't fix your life snafus, it just takes a little more effort. But the rewards are so much greater, so it is worth it, don't you agree?

PS Snafu is another fun word!

WORD

2010-08-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

I was just reading Momza's blog (hi Momza) and her post for August 2nd stuck in my head, I mean not the subject matter necessarily but one particular word caught my attention and I can't get it out of my head. Epiphany....epiphany...as in, I think I just had an Epiphany! What a great word! I keep saying it over and over in my head...ya know..like when you get a song stuck in your head. This is just a fun word to say and have. I also love the word Sizzix! It is a word that just rolls off your tongue.

I believe that some words were made up just because of the way pronouncing makes you feel. I also love the sound of chocolate ganache (and the taste) and to be perfectly honest, I may have misspelled this particular word, but no matter, I still like the way it sounds.

Words are fun and funny, they can smooth the roughest of waters or create a firestorm the likes you might see in a very dry summer lightning storm.

How about you, do you have a favorite word? Share!

Cambodia Job Foundation

2010-07-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

I just came across a most important foundation and I wanted to share it with you all.

My daughter-in-laws parents Wilf and Suzanne Stagg recently returned from Cambodia where they served an 18 month mission. They were deeply touched by the people there and the hardships that they live with every day, so much so that they came home and started their own non-profit foundation. With this foundation they help the people of Battambang Cambodia learn new skills which help them gain employment to care for their families. They also help the people of this small village set up home based businesses. Their foundation supplies the poorest families with food and basic necessities of life.

Suzanne has also written a book about her experiences there over the 18 months called 'Conquering my fears in Cambodia' and with every $25 dollar donation you will receive a free book. I read this book and it is very inspiring and well written and I would recommend it to everyone. Check out their blog here and read up on the work they do. They also have a website here.

I have known Wilf and Suzanne Stagg for several years, they are wonderful, caring people and I know that every dollar goes directly to the people of Cambodia and all donations are tax deductible.

Healing

2010-07-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

I am having one of those thinking moments, you know the kind where your mind just won't shut off. Mine started at 4:00 AM today. It started to roll pictures through my mind as if I were at a picture show. The pictures were there with vivid colors but it was the emotions that kept me awake and staring at the ceiling, so I finally got up.

The main feeling I was having was a heaviness on my heart that kept me from taking deep cleansing breaths, you know the kind that makes you wish that you could have a good cleansing cry but the tears won't come.

My thoughts centered around my dear little Sissy and some conflicts that have been assailing her for the past couple of days. Mr Darcy calls it 'Drama' but the true word to describe it is conflict. I have found myself in similar situations in the past and so I know the suffering that comes with it all to well and because of this I find myself mired in a funk of melancholy that sits like a weight upon my heart.

We are all human and therefore we are subjected to human feelings and reactions or should I say over-reactions that bring heartache and sorrow not only to us but to others as well. My daughter is having a human experience brought on by other humans that have allowed their overly sensitive situations to bubble and froth and ooze all over every aspect in their life right now and innocent bystanders find themselves in the line of fire. Is this what we would call 'friendly fire'?

Anyway, it has caused me to have a moment of thought, contemplation, empathy, whatever you want to call it and I find myself wrestling with my reactions. Logic tells me one thing and my heart tells me quite another. While I have always been a creature of logic, my first reaction is usually emotional....then after some walking, sometimes lots of walking...I come to the logical conclusion...one that will not have me repenting any more then I constantly have to.

But this time is different..... My logical mind has abandoned me, leaving me with no recourse but to allow those human emotions to trample all feeling of empathy that may try to find a foothold. I am finding a desperate need to share me, myself and I with someone, but not just anyone, someone that would understand my troubled heart and not judge me for the human way I am dealing with the hurt my daughter has been caused by an unthinking, unfeeling human being.

So here I sit, hoping against hope that seeing the words in print will shock my logical self back to the forefront so that I can better help my bruised and battered baby girl. And then my heart whispers to my truest friend, 'help me do the right thing for the right reason' ...the dam breaks and the cleansing tears come...the healing has started.

Still more reunion photos!

2010-07-18T13:00:00.001-07:00

Each family made their own family flag and they were flown proudly
The babies just loved their great auntie
The wonderful eating tent that gave us all a great place to gather and play games

The games this year were fantabulous Christoff....What a steady head you have my son

As per your requests: More reunion pictures

2010-07-18T12:46:00.001-07:00

The stance of a professional horseshoe thrower, My Mr Darcy
3 of my very talented family, 2 granddaughters and my dear Son-in-law (creator of Helga)
The newlyweds taking an actual plunge
My beautiful grandson enjoying the sun
Mr Darcy and my dear brother in law

Pictures of the reunion

2010-07-17T14:56:00.001-07:00

My dear sistuh at the beach
One of my beautiful grandbabies playing with the hoola hoop
pa-pa expressing an opinion about having his picture taken
Sister number 2 with her hubby
Ma-ma and Pa-pa enjoying the whole family together, all this because 2 people fell in love!

Happiness is......FAMILY

2010-07-14T07:13:00.000-07:00

So, the reunion of the century is over and while it was the BEST ever and I loved it MADLY, I have needed sleep, lots of sleep to get back to my normal sleep deprived self. I have also felt a little lost because all my projects for this AWESOME event are done and put to bed.

May I also say that my family is the most INCREDIBLE family around. They were WONDERFUL and made the whole experience one that I will never, ever, ever forget. I love you guys (if any of you are reading this) more then I love my Mickey Mouse Crocs (which I wore constantly during the reunion)!

I was going to post pictures for you to see just how awesome it was but my computer is in the shop getting something reattached and all my reunion pictures are on it and I am working on Mr Darcy's computer so you will have to wait for my next post to see printed proof in full color of our wonderful adventure. Just suffice it to say that I was completely and purrfectly and incandescently happy with the way things turned out.

Clothing optional? Not in this lifetime

2010-07-13T16:32:00.001-07:00

I was just reading an article in a magazine and it suggested that if you haven't looked at your fashion style since 1982 it was time for a fashion check-up. Really and truly I probably haven't looked at myself and my fashion sense since I was 10 years old somewhere in the mid 60's when all I really wanted to look like was Twiggy.

So where does that leave me?

My Twiggy days are loooooong gone...and my fashion sense has been lying as dormant as a hibernating bear in the far, far north.

I even bring Mr Darcy with me on shopping trips as I need him to tell me what I like and don't like in clothing. Sad isn't it?

I just don't care very much about how I look....I mean, I like to look good, and not like a slug, but I just don't want to put the effort into it. I go for comfort, with a capitol C! I guess I don't have the proper woman genes that seem to be so prevalent in every female but me. To put it bluntly.....I HATE TO SHOP....unless I am at Disneyland.

So my fashion report card should put me to shame, thank goodness Mr Darcy gets an A in all things shopping and my dearest Daughter Sissy is a pro at accessorizing. If it were not for the two of them I might very well have to run naked through the streets and no one wants that to happen (trust me on this one).

To prove my point, this is a picture of my feet as they have been all day long! I have been running and doing everything I have needed to looking like this.Did you notice the writing on my socks sticking out a little. I think that fashion icons everywhere are turning over in their graves, (that is if they are in graves) whenever I get up in the morning and dress myself for the day.

Oh well, I look at it this way, without people like me in this world Stacy London and Clinton Kelly (from 'what not to wear') would be out of work. It's good to have a purpose.

Mile Marker 54

2010-06-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

I just hit another milestone, a birthday! and boy was it ever a full day. Mr Darcy always asks what I want to do for my birthday and for the past several years I always say the same thing, I want to go for a bike ride up the canyon to a local ski resort and go up the mountain on the lift and then head home to spend time with my beloved family. He always asks and I always say the same thing, a creature of habit I guess. But the day went on as planned and I always love the experience. The canyons are particularly green this year and it was so refreshing up there on the mountain. There was also an excess of runoff and it had overflowed onto the road, we went through it getting our shoes all wet, man it was cold water.
The evening was full of moments of family and it was so lovely. Sissy used her special talent to make me a beautiful Disneyland cake which was not only fabulous looking, it tasted great. She made the top tier gluten free so that I could enjoy my own cake. Thank you my little muffin, you are so thoughtful and I am grateful to be your mom. My grandbabies all made cards for me and I love them so much. Every year keeps getting better, and I am grateful that I have been around as long as I have and hope to have another 50 years with my family here on earth.
Mr Darcy planned and carried out Dinner for the whole brood. It was delicious and I didn't have to do a thing. We do love tacos at our house.
Well, I guess that it is time to move into another year and try to improve over last year, it should be easy as I have left myself so much room for improvement.
Just want to say thank you to my loved ones both near and far for loving and supporting me through thick and thin.

Fly me Away

2010-06-23T05:18:00.000-07:00

I am heading out to Albuquerque right this very minute. I am sitting at the airport waiting to board and thinking that I wish I were already there. I miss my hubby but I will see him in about 3 1/2 hours. We will then head on over to Colorado Springs. I hope the weather is good there. More then that, I hope that Mr Darcy is just as anxious to see me as I am to see him. I'll be there soon Honey!

My favortie things

2010-06-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just like looking at some of my favorite pics and since I write things here specifically for me, I added these!

The Birthday Boy

2010-06-06T20:13:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we celebrated my Pa-pa's 80th birthday. We had a little surprise breakfast for him and it was so sweet to have all of his children and at least half of his grandkids there to let him know how special he is to us.

What a great blessing it is to have my dad in my life. He is my rock and he is also the smartest man I know. He has an amazing grasp of Gospel principles and it is such a wonderful thing to pick his brain and hear him explain things to me that are important for me to understand.

The older I get the more I appreciate having the dad I have. He is an amazing example to me of integrity and kindness, he takes amazing care of my mom, he cleans the house every Friday to make her life easier. He has always been someone I admired so much and I hope he knows how much I love him.

Thanks Dad for always being there for me! I love you very much and have a very happy 80th!

The HEAT is ON

2010-06-06T19:14:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend in St George at the celebration of my nephews wedding. He and his lovely Bride were married 2 weeks ago in Boston and this weekend was the open house for them. It was a lovely event in a beautiful yard in my sisters neighborhood. I L.O.V.E. outdoor receptions with the green of the lawns and the blue of the sky and the lovely smells of flora and fauna. Oh how I love a beautifully manicured yard and this one was incredible.

However.....

Along with the beauty comes the uncontrollable component called 'The Weather'. It was unbelievably hot, like 104 degrees hot.

I posted not too long ago about wanting Spring to come....what happened? I think I was cheated. We went from the Cold to the Hot is one fell swoop. Seriously people, what happened to blue sky, green grass, 80 degrees, I feel like I must have slept through a whole season, like Rip Van Winkle.

But back to the reception, it was simply beautiful, the bride was radiant the groom was handsome. My sister pulled off a stunning event in spite of the temperature and we had family coming from far and near to help celebrate. Isn't it amazing that family makes everything bearable, even the heat. My daughter made a beautiful wedding cake for the event. I was so happy to be there to interact with brother and sisters (by the way, every sibling of mine was there), and nieces nephews, sons and daughters as well as the grandbabies. What an event! Thank you my dear sis and bro-in-law you made a wonderful event and I am grateful I was part of it.

United We Stand

2010-06-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

It is time for reunions. We have a pretty big one coming up in a month and Mr Darcy and I have taken this one upon ourselves. My dear My Darcy loves to pull family gatherings together and I do believe he has missed his calling, he should work on a cruise ship as a social event coordinator. He is G.O.O.D. He plans and organizes and then plans some more. We actually put together an agenda book and sent it out to everyone so they will know their assignments and what to expect. Man it takes a lot of man hours to entertain 60 people, but it will all be worth it in the end. Nothins better then gettin together with family and loved ones that you see only once a year or so. I Can't wait!!!!

Thanks family for being so receptive and cooperative. YOU are the reason it is worth it.

Spring Cleaning

2010-06-03T19:39:00.000-07:00

I did it! I cleaned out the old and brought in the new. Sometimes you just need a change and that is where I am right now. I rearranged the furniture and changed my color scheme. Funny how doing simple things like that refreshes and invigorates.

oh....I just reread what I have written and realized that I didn't mention I was talking about my blog page. My house is still the same old same old but my blog page....now that is pizazz.

It has been a long time coming and I actually had to read up on some instructions on how to change my look, and then I closed my eyes pushed a button and hoped for the best! It was a little nerve wracking.. but it is done and I feel so .....accomplished. That hill has been climbed.

How about you, you ever felt the need to cleanse and purge?

Traveling in Style

2010-05-17T05:06:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone, thought you might be interested in some edible art. I think this is the most fantabulous thing, and my little Sissy created it. This is CAKE people. I know, I know, it is astounding and I am so proud to say that the creator came from my very own gene pool.

If you want some fun browsing check out her other blog here and be ready for some wonderful, scrumptious eye-catching CAKES.

What a talent she is!

Mother's Day

2010-05-10T13:52:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day is a bittersweet day to me.

I love being a MOM and raising my kids.
I love my own MOM and appreciate all the sacrifices she made raising us.
But Mothers Day also gives me the chance to look back on the things that I did wrong and wish I could have a do-over.

I wish I could be all things to all the people I love and cherish
But I can't
So I have to hope that they have forgiving hearts and accepting natures
and eyes that can see what I wish I were and not what I appear to be.

To all of you women out there that don't have your own children to mother
Thank you for mothering mine when I came up short.
Thank you for seeing what I may have missed
Thank you for buoying me up with your wisdom

Sometimes we aim high but miss the mark we were shooting for
Sometimes our views are blurred or obscured
But I believe, always our hearts want and yearn to be the best
Not for us, but for those that we care for and about.

I may be the one to care for those I have been blessed with
But they are my teachers
They make me be better
They lift me up and make me whole.

The Nose Knows

2010-05-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

I have been laying here awake thinking about random things, and out of the blue I start thinking about basements. Maybe it is because we are visiting my Niece in Tucson, where they don't seem to have any, but it just popped into my head.

I love the smell of a basement, I used to go down into my grandmas root cellar (that is what she called it) and just start inhaling. It is a comforting smell to me. It reminds me of home. Some people equate the smell of a basement with mildew or stale air, but to me it smells of the earth and life.

And then another thought came tumbling through the chaos, I love, love, love the smell of wet cement. Nothing is more serene to me then the smell of cement after a rain. I think it must be inherited because Sissy also loves the smell of wet cement.

I love that my memory is in my nose! My paternal grandparents died when I was quite young, but we had spent a lot of time with them up to that point, we even lived with them for a short time. Sometimes while walking around a lot of people I will catch a whiff of perfume from somewhere and I will feel my grandma close by. I don't know the name of this perfume or even if it is a perfume, I only know that my grandma becomes very near to me at times like this. For all I know it is my grandma, letting me know that she is still watching out for me and that she loves me.

I have been desperately wanting Spring to come....really, really, really badly have I wanted Spring to come, and the other night (or should I say morning) at 12:30 in the AM, we arrived home and I stepped out of the car and spring filled my nasal passages. I mean it came through the dark and the calm so completely that I had to stand and inhale for a full minute. I L.O.V.E. that my first full experience with Spring came through my nose.

This amazing sense of smell is a blessing to me in so many ways. It is one of the ways I can remember my little darlings so well. I love the smell of my little grandsons as they throw their little arms around my neck and tell me I am their 'best fwiend'. Every sense is awake and alert and completely, insanely happy at that particular moment. My nose is what keeps the memories connected for me. As I form each new memory, with each new hug, the smell says, 'Yes, you know this experience' and it is added upon, again and again.

What a blessing!
I am so grateful!

2010-05-07T16:21:00.000-07:00

Family!

What a concept.

We spend our days running to and fro
fixing, getting, making, ya know
trying to reach the pinnacle....
the top...capture the brass ring!

And then
for just a tiny fraction of a second,
a glimpse of eternal joy, happiness,
and composed chaos
finds it's way into our homes
disguised as sticky hands or muddy toes
and musical laughter

In that brief moment
we see the truth,
the reality of our purpose

and it is
FAMILY!

sometimes we are blessed to
have the opportunity to
unite
to be one
to share the love,
the joy,
the frustration

I am thankful for the love
that enters the room with
every 3 year old or
every 10 year old
or every 13 year old.
Their light is abundant
and I am shown the true meaning
of joy!

We are the luckiest ...
wouldn't you say?

And it all began with my Mr Darcy and me!
I love you Mr Darcy!
I love you Sissy, Ry-boy, Josephus, Nicodeem
I love you Sease, Tae, Anya, Faisy, Kader-monkey, Ky, Kaysia, Ty, Addie and Rodan.

My cup runneth oer'

Miles to go before I Sleep!

2010-04-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

there are moments in my life when I have to ask
....is this all worth it?

We have been doing a lot of traveling lately, business travel,
and I feel a little bit like the only home I have is in the front
seat of my car.
I miss my home, my family, my quiet space....

But then again, I have had so many opportunities to meet and share
with AMAZING people that I would never know if not for the constant
travel we have been doing.

I also have had my little hubby all to myself
(except for the phone calls) a large portion of our time away from our stationary home, in our moving home away from home (the front seat of my car).
This is a blessing for me.

I know him better now then I have in our entire married life,
the down side is,
he knows me better then he has our entire married life.
this could be a problem, but I am still around so he must
like what he sees!

But the one thing that has kept me tied and in touch with my peeps
was my lap top computer.
and now it is on the fritz.....I mean completely refusing to even start up.

I am hoping that tomorrow when I take it into the local Geek Squad,
I will have some good news.
That it will only take a quick turn of a screwdriver to send me on
my merry online way.

Yes, I know that I am being very naive...but a girl can dream can't she!

WISH ME LUCK!

2010-04-25T20:00:00.001-07:00

What a way to shoot for the stars. This is how you have your cake and eat it too!!!!

What a great Memory

2010-04-09T21:02:00.003-07:00

Have you ever had something that is just a warm and fuzzy memory? Well this little clip evokes just such a memory for me. My sisters and I sing when we get together and all it takes is a word or a phrase to get a chorus going.

Just giving a little shout out to my beloved sisters! Hey sis, watch and enjoy!

As Seen On TV

2010-02-24T09:14:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had an addiction? Well I think that we might have something along those lines under our roof, and No, it is not me.

My dear Mr Darcy has discovered infomercials and periodically I find a new box on the porch put there courtesy of UPS. I always know who to ask about it, My darling Mr Darcy.

It is amazing to me that a man so completely structured with our budget is so free to order from every Tom, Dick or Harry that has a new product to sell. We have a new Ninja Master Prep blender (which is actually quite cool), as well as a new AB Circle Pro (haven't used this yet), and a couple of books came yesterday.

In all fairness, every item really does have a useful purpose for our household, it is just mind boggling to me to see him be so financially human. (It must be said that he would never spend irresponsibly) Who woulda thunk!

How about you! Anyone out there have the same addiction? Have you bought anything from an infomercial that you regretted? Any great purchases that you have never regretted. Share!

Where is the Spring in my step?

2010-02-23T19:54:00.001-08:00

Spring, where art thou my true and noble friend! I am waiting very impatiently for the warmth of your gentle breezes and the lengthening of your days.

Anyone out there have any suggestions for filling my days as I await the coming of a brand new Spring! I think I may need some chocolate or at the very least a cup of hot chocolate with a white fluffy dollup of whipped cream, or maybe a scoop of premium vanilla ice cream. Come to think of it maybe winter has a few perks!

Zippadee Doo Dah , Wonderful day

2010-02-03T21:21:00.000-08:00

Hey there everybody! Have you ever been on a zipline before? I did it today and I kept the camera running while I zipped across the tops of the rain forest here in Costa Rica, it was AWESOME! Sorry I got so much of the sky in the picture but I was hanging on and the camera was on it's own.

Here comes Mr Sunshine

2010-02-01T04:06:00.000-08:00

Sun, Surf and Sand, what a combination. We have been fortunate enough to take a wonderful all expense paid trip to beautiful Costa Rica and may I just say....if you ever have the chance to go, you should snap it up in a heartbeat. This is truly a tropical paradise.
Mr Darcy and I feel very fortunate to be here with not only beautiful scenery but with some very quality people. Life just keeps getting better doesn't it. Who woulda thought that I would someday find my way to Central America in the dead of winter back home but the height of summer here.
We also passed the temple in San Jose on our way to the resort and all of a sudden it felt like home. Funny how that happens.

Confessions of a Closet chef-a-holic

2010-01-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

I have a confession, a guilty pleasure.

I love the Food Network,

I love Ina Garten (the barefoot contessa). She is my Julia Child.

Now mind you, I don't like to cook or rather I am really bad at it, but I love to watch someone that knows what they are doing in the kitchen. Now that is truly a beautiful thing.

Today I learned how to make date bread with orange cream cheese spread and homemade orange marmalade.

I also am a fan of Alton Brown (good eats). Now this man knows everything there is to know about food, cooking, science, entertainment. Then there is Bobbie Flay and Tyler Florence also very fabulous cooks with great recipes. Man...there is just something about a man that can cook, it almost sends me over the top. That is why I love it when Mr Darcy mans the BBQ grill.

Watching these skilled chefs makes me almost giddy with the thought of bringing wonderful, tasty, beautiful creations of love for my family.

But alas, my thought process is as far as that goes. Wouldn't life be wonderful if the pictures in your head became your reality without any work or effort. Okay, okay.. before I start getting comments about the effort being the thing that brings joy to the experience...let me say this. I know...I know, I really do, but a girl can dream can't she.

Organize me, Please!

2010-01-11T09:50:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had a crazy, crazy span of time? Well, I am in the throws of crazy business travel right now. Mr Darcy and I have been traveling A LOT. We usually leave on Monday and return home on Thursday so that we can be home on the weekends, however last week we were gone Monday coming home Wednesday and then left Friday returning home Saturday. It was a crazy week, and next week will not be much better, the difference is that next week is strictly a pleasure trip. I will be traveling with my lovely parents to a wedding in California and they have agreed to let me tag along. We will be gone about 10 days (depending on the weather) and get back just in time for me to entertain company for a couple of days and then immediately hop a plane for Costa Rica (by immediately, I mean the day they leave, we leave). After arriving home we will then have 1 day at home and then run down to Vegas for the blessing of '10' my latest and greatest grandbaby.

Whew! just writing it has left me exhausted. Why did I just spill my guts to all you innocent bystanders? well, I will tell you. I am extremely disorganized, it is a natural state that I live in daily, but as part of my new goals, I want to change this part of my brain makeup. So I have written this out to try to get a handle on my next three weeks. I figured if I saw it in black and white it would give me a starting place, you know, kind of ground me a little. Unfortunately after rereading what I have written, all it leaves me with is a feeling of bewilderment and yes, exhaustion.

To all you wonderful people reading this, any suggestions on reworking my brain so that organization is not only natural but ...oh I don't know.... Fun, would be oh so appreciated! I would love your input and your suggestions. After reading your posts, and may I say you are amazing, I know that you all can help me with my issues, even if it is just to help me laugh at myself.

Now, while I wait for your pearls of wisdom, I think a nap is in order.

2009, you were fine

2010-01-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

We made it, it is 2010 and 2009 is officially behind us now. It has been a very busy and productive year for my family. We have been blessed with great opportunities as well as great challenges and both I find to be blessings from a loving Father in Heaven.

As I take stock, I wanted to give a special Thank You to the people in my life that color it with love and flavor it with laughter and kindness. It has been a year that has increased our little family by 2 beautiful babies, bringing it to a total of 10 choice little spirits that grace this family and for that I must give an extra measure of love to my 3 beautiful daughters-in-law and 1 beautiful daughter. Where would I be without the love of my very special support system. MY GIRLS (and yes, they all are my girls) are the best of the best.

But we must not forget the testosterone that is also part of the pack. My darling Mr Darcy and my boys (all 4 of them) are incredible men, fathers, husbands and sons. They are truly honorable men.

The year has been one that I will treasure for the moments spent with friends both near and far and with siblings that give much more then they ever get back from me. How I love you all. Thinking about you makes me want to be a better person, love more, share more, serve more, so if a New Years Resolution were something that I was prone to make, that would be it.

And probably my greatest wish of all would be for all of you to have the righteous desires of your hearts both great and small and that you will always be blessed for the good that you are in my life.

2009-12-27T09:34:00.000-08:00

I wanted to wish any and all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS AND WONDERFUL AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR!

Journal Entry

2009-12-17T05:37:00.001-08:00

It is early and I am not sleeping. Too many things running rampant through my thought process. Isn't it amazing that no matter how old you get, you can so quickly be thrown back into the past and relive experiences that you would just as soon forget. It is interesting to feel like an outsider to your own life....... or wish that you were.

As I sit here trying to sort out my emotions and try to make sense out of an emotional situation, I long for the days when all that I had to concern myself with was where to find a matching sock.

When taking stock of my relationships, it is with some confusion that I realize only those that you love deeply enough can truly get under your skin and hurt you, hurt you with a deep wound that never seems to heal completely and remains as an ugly scar tissue on the most sensitive area of the soul. It seems to await 'the trigger' and then proceeds to look for any and all areas of weakness to bring you emotionally to your knees. I am there.

The strange thing is, I wasn't part of this situation other then being a bystander witnessing it. It was slightly surreal. Watching two people that I love hurt one another with words and actions that stemmed from exhaustion and hunger and probably deep down wounds that have never been addressed, was nothing short of painful.

I have found it hard to be forgiving and even harder to be objective.

I know in time the sting of this event will soften as it becomes buried by day to day goings on, but unless I find compassion and charity in my soul, this will become another defining image in the movie in my mind that is my life, and that is unacceptable.

A dream is a wish your heart makes

2009-11-19T13:11:00.001-08:00

Man oh man, the adventures that you can experience when you leave the comfort of hearth and home. We spent the day at Disneyland Tokyo on Wednesday and had such a time. Disneyland does everything up first class, it is an incredible place, but it made me homesick for MY Disneyland, luckily I will be going there in another 4 weeks.

We did have an adventure coming back to the room, we took the wrong train back and we couldn't believe the way that the Japanese commuters cram, and I mean cram themselves into a small space. I wanted to take a picture but I couldn't get my hands free to get to the camera. The picture that I have here was after half of them got off. And to top it all off we were on the wrong train going the wrong direction. The people here are so helpful, even if they don't understand anything we say they go out of their way to get us to the correct destination. It took 3 trains to get back on the correct track and being the navigator I felt very badly about it but all my friends made sure that I understood how much they enjoyed the adventure.
We also had a great time shopping in Asakusa. It was such a wonderful area and the shops were so cute. The picture below was taken looking down all the shops. It did rain the whole time we were out but that didn't dampen our spirits, it was great. I would love to go back and might just do that today. Luckily they had a McDonald's on this little street so Steve took up residency there and waited while I explored all the little shops.
The little shops along one of the streets in Asakusa. Above is the fan shop that I love so much.

One other thing that I have gotten from this trip is a new appreciation for MY country. Believe it or not I am a little homesick for family, friends, home, car and country. I have enjoyed the trip but look forward to coming back home. I guess you just can't take the country out of the girl, can you?

I lost a day

2009-11-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

Yippeeee, We have arrived in Tokyo Japan. We left Sunday Morning at 11:34 AM and arrived in Japan on Monday Afternoon at 4:00 PM. We lost most of Monday when we crossed the international dateline but we will gain it back when we return next Monday.

It is rainy today but we don't plan to let that stop us. We are headed out to explore this biggest city in the world. I also plan to make a couple of purchases. I worried about what I could eat here but I had Curry and Rice last night and it didn't bother me too much. I am hoping that is a good sign.

I am excited to be here with my husband and friends and look forward to the Synergy conference later this weekend.

I wanted to take a picture of one of the commodes at the airport but I didn't have my camera with me. The week is not over yet and I plan to get a photo before I come home. These toilets are revolutionary. They wash you and dry you and they even have a button you push that sounds like a toilet flushing to cover any unseemly noises that might come from the stall. Man, they think of everything.

I have included a picture of our little group waiting at the airport at LAX and will post again after we visit with Mickey tomorrow.

I am Ruled by Rules

2009-11-08T05:32:00.001-08:00

Let me just say at the beginning of this post, I am a rule follower. It is what I do. I am committed to the concept with my whole heart. Mr Darcy on the other hand believes that rules may apply to others but they are simply an inconvenience for him. It is a constant source of gut wrenching to me, to see him so casually ignore a rule as if it didn't exist.

And so it is understandable that just when I think I have at least one thing figured out in my life, the rules seem to change and I am thrown into a dither.

Rule #1 -- I H.A.T.E Shopping. I know this contradicts everything people think about woman, but I hate it. It makes me so tired and bored and it gives me a backache.

Now, here is where the rule changes. Yesterday, I spent the day with my dear sis and my darling niece Lin-rock. Lindsay had decided to make a spur of the moment decision to jump in a car and come up to visit her two favorite aunts for the weekend (that is something you can do when you are 19, footloose and fancy free, with nothing tying you down). So we wanted to show her a good time, and Lindsay LOVES to shop, so we took her to the mall (aaarrrrggggghhhhh, I hate shopping, did I mention that?). Well, we spent several hours there, and guess what people, I had a fabulous time, me...... shopping......who knew that was even possible for me. I not only had a good time, I bought something spur of the moment like, without prior thought or planning. A pair of shoes no less. And guess what, I LOVE them. I mean, seriously people, do you know how long it has been since I bought a pair of shoes on a whim, without prior planning, and LOVED them. I do not believe it has evah happened.

Here is a picture of my purchase, aren't they PRETTY. They are a lovely bronze color and I believe that is my new favorite color.

So let that be a lesson to you all, maybe Mr Darcy is right about this.......nah, this was just a fluke of nature.

How about you, are you a ME or a MR DARCY when it comes to rules? Just curious.

Tis the Season

2009-11-06T06:05:00.000-08:00

OK, it is time to move past my guilt riddled post and put up something that I hope will be fun to look at.

My dearest daughter 'Sissy' has put together a group of women who meet up once a month and do a little scrapbook project. I enjoy this immensely as I get to spend time with some amazing woman and create something cute . The way we do this is each month one of us is the hostess and we create a 2 page spread (sometimes this is the hardest part of hostessing, coming up with a project) and then have everything ready for the others to come, sit down and get busy.

Well, this month it is my turn to host our evening out and I racked my brain for a clever fun idea. I have said before in previous posts, that I am a copier, I do great work when I can just copy someone else's creative juices and so that is just what I did (thank you Karen ).

For my evening I decided to make Christmas Cards instead of the 2-page spread and I wanted to share them with you, mainly because I am proud of them. I love them, I hope you will too.

In all fairness if you don't like the cards you have seen, I did take some creative license, I copied the main idea and then added my own embellishments, you know, change a little here and a little there, so if you don't like them, don't blame my scrapbook mentor Karen.

I am ready to go, and I am excited about the evening. I will have to let you know how it goes and if it is a success, but either way I am ready and organized for the big day as you can see by my box below (believe it or not this is my way of organizing).

Guilt, Thy name is Mother

2009-11-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt just a 'day late and a dollar short?' Well that is how I feel... generally speaking. For example, If there are several lanes in the grocery store check-out and I pick one of said lanes...it is a given that I always pick the slow lane. (Sometimes I want to apologize to those that are in line around me and explain they are NOW standing in the slow lane.) But to get to the meat of this post...

I came into blogdom rather late in the life of blogmania, I created my blog because my daughter had one (I know what you are thinking...I am too old to succumb to peer pressure) and I thought it was an easy, free way to communicate with her, but apparently blogging has a short life span as she no longer posts.... at all...about anything. And thus I am left in my lone corner of the world...alone...sigh.. sniff. (After writing this I must make an addendum to the above statement, I love all my blog friends that consistently write and keep me entertained on a daily basis... this post is NOT directed at you!)

So as you can see my daughter's blogging flame is short-lived. She had a glorious run while it lasted and I must comfort myself with memories of what once was. Of entertaining moments of whimsy and reality mixed in an easy reading, easy flowing pattern of gentle entertainment that lifted my spirits and brought a smile to this old mom's lips.

Thanks for the Memories!

Perfection

2009-11-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

May I introduce you to the most perfect little being on the planet.
This is my latest little muffin grandbaby, isn't she just edible.
She is perfection in a beautiful wrapping.

I love you my darling granddaughter!

Don't lose your head over this

2009-10-31T11:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes things just quit working. I don't know if you have ever experienced this, but I have and I think it is a law of nature. So, when my fan in my bathroom just quit, I figured it was one of those things.

It really wasn't old enough to die a natural death, and it goes on when my light goes on and the light was still working so I knew there was power going to it. During the summer months during the day I very seldom even use the light and fan, so I just figured it was 'one of those things'.

Mr Darcy took it down the other day to replace it and found a very disturbing turn of events. The fan, had not just stopped for no reason, inside the casing was a birds carcass, a HEADLESS birds carcass. EWWWWWWWWWWW!

Ya just never know what interesting experiences you will have handed to you, do ya?

And a Little Child shall Lead Them

2009-10-25T20:06:00.000-07:00

While visiting with my daughter and grandbabies tonight we were blessed with such a sweet sight that I had to share with you. My daughters youngest Faize was playing a game on the computer and all of a sudden it got really quiet and when we investigated, this is what we found.....

How precious is he..

I just can't get enough of this angel baby

I must admit sometimes when I am sitting at the computer trying to get things accomplished I feel like doing the exact same thing.

I love you my littlest.

The best Seat in the House

2009-10-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

okay everyone out there, it is time to talk some serious talk.
I have a favorite item in my household. It may seem unimportant or even trite but it serves a *HUGE* purpose in the cleanliness of my household, especially in one particular room. This is a product that I always keep in storage so that I don't run out.

I have used this product for years and it has never disappointed. I have even used it for purposes that it was not intended, to take off the hard water deposits on my outside windows.

What can this miraculous product be?...........My Lysol toilet bowl cleaner.

I just love this product to pieces. It takes the nastiest place in the house and makes it sparkle. (for those that have delicate sensibilities, STOP reading now)

Now my commode could feel badly about itself, just because of the very nature for which it was created, not to mention the arguments Mr Darcy and I have gotten into over the whole seat up, seat down universal debate, and yet with one quick squirt and swish it is new and fresh and ready to take on whatever life throws at it.

How about you.... do you have a favorite obscure household product that keeps your world humming along?

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2009-10-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

Today is Sunday....I love Sundays and today was especially wonderful because it was our primary program.

There is nothing more celestial then seeing all those little 3 year olds standing up along the podium smiling as if they were on a float and had just been crowned the King and Queen of the world. Then they spot their mom and dad or siblings or neighbor and wave so excitedly it looks like their hand might fall off.

And then there are the oldest Primary kids...you know the ones that are only there biding their time until they move on to Young Men and Young Womens. They act as if it is a torture to stand up there and as soon as the word is given they will be off that stand and out of those choir seats.

It is a moment like that when I realize... I am smiling and I didn't even mean to, it just happens.

Then without warning or allowing me time to prepare myself and my overactive tear ducts, they begin singing the most heavenly songs...songs that make me think of celestial things and celestial voices coming down from the heavens. Their messages are simple and pure doctrine that any and all are capable of understanding. And before I know it the tears are flowing.

My heart starts to swell in my chest as if it would burst and a warm wonderful feeling washes over me from head to toe. Testimony is born to me of the truthfulness of these simple words and songs presented to me by tiny, innocent beings. How wonderful it is to be a member of this church.

And That Has Made All the Difference

2009-10-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how different your life might be if you had made even one small decision differently? That is what I am sitting here pondering about right now.
This morning I attended a funeral for a 33 year old young man with a young family. Funerals always make me think about life in a deeper way then my every day 'run here and there' type of thought process.

I rode up to the funeral with my parents and my dad made the comment, 'oh, everyone always wants to be younger,' well, in all honesty, I am not one of those people. I did that whole young thing, and I wouldn't go back. Granted, there are things that I wish I had done differently, but knowing myself and my 'leap before you look' mentality, I probably wouldn't take advantage of the opportunity to do things differently, so my only option is to move forward armed with the knowledge of experience and the wisdom that comes with heartbreak.

My life is full, my heart has been full to overflowing as well as broken and contrite, but both experiences are necessary for me. If I had not had the pain of foolish choices, I would never know the joy of choosing the right. My path is far from straight, there are many places my footprints have veered off to the right or left, but I hope that in the final analyses my path, though not as constant or straight as an arrow, will get me to the place where my joy will be complete. In the meantime, I make my choices, I accept the consequences, and I love the journey.

Seasons of Change

2009-10-14T20:23:00.000-07:00

It's interesting the twist and turns that life throws your way.
We were attending the BYU-UNLV game last weekend and one of my sons friends joined us. He had just participated in a very long relay race that took place over a couple of days, and he mentioned that one of the racers had been hit by a drunk driver and killed. We felt awful about this and talked about it for a minute, then while we were driving back to the hotel that night my daughter called and told me that the High School band she used to work with had been at a competition in Idaho and while traveling back, one of the buses had rolled and the teacher on the bus had been thrown out and killed. On the way back the next day my mom called and told me that the racer that was killed was my cousins son. This on top of the death of another cousins husband just two weeks ago, and the death of my friends son only a week before.

I realize that death is a part of life but this seems like an awful lot of people that I know passing away in a very short time period. I know that they are happy where they are now, but those that are left behind are having to cope with their grief and lonliness. I think that I have had my fill of funerals for awhile.
I am however grateful for the knowledge I have about death and the life hereafter, it makes it much easier for me knowing that death is not the end and we will see our loved ones again.

2009-10-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

It has been a while since I have posted, I have been out of town a great deal of the past month and so haven't had the opportunity to post. However, I had the wonderful experience this past weekend of listening to the leaders of my church, and it was uplifting and so very inspiring. I felt so greatly of my Father in Heavens love for me while I was listening. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it. To anyone that is reading I must say,

I know that my Savior lives, I know that he atoned for my sins, and died that I might live again. I know that he Knows me individually and loves me, I know the holy Book of Mormon is true and that the Prophet Joseph Smith was and is a true and living prophet of God. I know this with every fiber of my being and I cannot deny it.

We are so blessed to have the Gospel! I love my Father in Heaven and his son Jesus Christ!

The Hills are Alive

2009-09-22T18:50:00.001-07:00

I have some favorite pictures that I have decided to share with you all. They are pictures that make me peaceful, and serene. I love pictures of green hills.

I also love pictures of children playing

Doesn't this picture just make you want to run with abandon up the grassy slope and let your hair blow back in the breeze?

It is so lovely to watch little people run and jump and laugh as though they have no cares in the world other then "what time do I get to eat" and "are there popsicles in the freezer". I don't know about you but I could watch them for hours and never grow weary.

It is amazing that some of our Father in Heavens greatest blessings are under 3 feet tall.

Come One, Come All

2009-09-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Now that I vented about the discourteous fans during Saturdays game, please let me tell you about my favorite part of the Football game weekend..and that is the Fireside that the team puts on every eve of the game they are playing. They even do them when it is an away game. I have come to have such a great appreciation and admiration for not only the players but a wonderful head coach and his wife.

The Firesides always consists of 2 players speaking, 2 musical numbers (1 is always the entire team singing Armies of Helaman, talk about goosebumps) and then we hear from Coach Mendenhall and his wife Holly. These firesides are inspiring and uplifting and like the coach says, the important things taking place don't happen on the field the next day, they happen the night before in venues across this country. Testimonies are born and strengthened, bonds are formed between the fan and team (I would no sooner scream rude things at them then I would at my own children) and we are edified. This is the purpose after all of a football team at a church school, to introduce our beliefs to the world and to be disciples of Christ.

If you ever have this team come to an area near you, please call the football office at BYU and ask where the Fireside will be taking place. Then gather up everyone that you love, even if they don't love football, and come for a spiritually uplifting evening. You will not be sorry!

Rise and Shout

2009-09-20T19:59:00.001-07:00

Does that sound familiar? Well, if it does you are more then likely an alumni of BYU, or you have lived in the state of Utah. Well last night Mr Darcy and I attended the opening game of the Cougars in Lavell Edwards Stadium.
Well, the game and all of it's ups and downs is now history and we were all saddened by the outcome, however that is not what this post is about. I wanted to address something that causes me a great deal of confusion, that being, the sportmanship of the fans (and I use the word loosely).

There was a man sitting just behind me and over, that had the loudest most penetrating voice I have heard in a long time. His voice was not the problem however, it was what he was saying. He was being very rude, yelling comments that were totally unnecessary and completely unkind. Now he wasn't swearing or anything, but that didn't make what he was saying any more palatable. And he wasn't alone, there were several people sitting around me making the same snide comments about the players, referees and the coaching staff. I was embarrassed for them.

Here's what I don't get, do these fans think that the players were enjoying the game, believe me, no one felt worse then they (the players) were feeling, and yelling at them certainly wouldn't make them run harder or play better, and I didn't see any of the loud mouths offering to run down and take their places.

Is this what being a fan means, if so, you can have it.

But that is not to say that everyone was behaving this way. The majority of the 'fans' were being supportive and trying to encourage the players and not tear them down. Maybe I had better change my focus and cheer a little louder.

Say 'Cheese' please

2009-09-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

I have an addiction, as Momza would call it, my 'go to thang'. It is taking pictures. I just love to....no make that, need to take pictures. I usually carry the camera every where I go.

As a matter of fact, my grandson Ky-Ky calls the camera, 'Cheese'. That tells me he has heard this phrase a few too many times.

Now that is not truly my problem, you see, the problem is, it takes me, oh,...about a thousand pictures before I get the shot just the way I want it (you know, not fuzzy or off center).

I want so badly to have the eye of a great photographer, but I don't..so I continue to shoot at anything that stands still, hoping against hope that I will capture the very essence and soul of my subject.

And then just when I am feeling dejected and downtrodden, I come up (quite accidentally) with a picture that makes me feel, oh, I don't know, swooney and I catch my breath and think, this is it, this is what I saw through the lens. And I am once again renewed and prepared for the next thousand pictures.

Filling your Buckets!

2009-09-16T07:56:00.000-07:00

Tenalyn, Ems, Sister Deb, Mom (4 generations of bucket fillers)

Today I was browsing around the blogging world and I visited my darling niece Ten's site. She is the Young Women President in her ward in AZ and she did a wonderful activity with her Young Women, check it out here.

Anyway I decided I wanted to do a little twist on her idea and tell everyone I can today something about them that I appreciate and love.

I want to be able to fill others buckets as they have filled mine. I hope I can do it justice, I will report back tomorrow on how I did.

Beautiful

2009-09-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

34 years ago today a miracle happened. It took a typical, beautiful September day and turned it into a day that changed forever my life. You see, 34 years ago I was reborn....I became a mother. Isn't it amazing that 2 births took place that day for me shortly after 6 AM. I feel that it was on this day that I found out what it means to love someone more then yourself. This day taught me the joy of sacrifice.

My darling Sissy was born to me and Mr Darcy and from the moment she entered the world, the world became a magical place for me. Everything became new to me, every sound she made, every yawn or stretch seemed like the most amazing thing I had ever seen. She has been a true JOY to me and it was on this day that I felt my Father in Heavens true love for me.

Happy Birthday my tiny little newborn daughter. You have been and continue to be a source of love and joy to your old parents. I do not know what we did to deserve having a delightful daughter like you but I am grateful every day of my life that you are mine. Who knew that I would give birth to my best Friend.
Love your very grateful
MOM
Sorry about the graininess of the photos, I took pictures of pictures

2009-09-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

What a beauty you are! I love you so much my little baby girl! I can't wait to get home and love on you for a while, and kiss your very tiny sweet baby head. I can't wait for your baby smell to fill all my senses with it's very sweet intoxicating perfume. You are truly an angel baby sent to remind us how close heaven really is!

Oh Baby!

2009-09-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

Wow! There is just nothing like having your very own offspring (in this case a son) have his very own offspring to make you feel like a brand new person. Maybe it is because new life that springs forth from your bloodline is allowing a little bit of you to live on and on and on. Anywho, that is how I am feeling today. My newest tiny newborn grandbaby is doing BETTER and BETTER and I am so happy and grateful for that.

It is an interesting thing to be part of, this idea of generation after generation continuing on in an unbroken string. I truly do think that I will live forever, which in effect part of me will. And as I contemplate the beautiful grandchildren I have been blessed with, it is truly the best part of me that will live on.

With each new little one, comes that opportunity to try harder, to love with no conditions, to see through innocent eyes. A fresh start is ours to be had. What an adventure life is, what a gift to be enjoyed.

Who says you can't turn back the clock. Each new addition to my family makes me feel younger and invigorated and very alive. And if my kids keep up the pace, who knows, I just may live forever!

May I please have your Attention

2009-09-09T15:51:00.001-07:00

SHE IS HERE!!!!

Each time a baby is born, So is a Grandma

2009-09-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here on the bed. For all intents and purposes I appear to be very calm and composed. But deep inside I am all a flutter and discombobulated. You see today I have the great privilege and thrill of becoming a grandma, again, for the ninth time. And you know what? it never stops giving me butterflies and giddiness with anticipation. In short I. CAN'T. WAIT.

I am out of town, which makes it worse, and my son, although dear as the day is long, has a rather warped sense of humor and loves to keep me on pins and needles.
With each new grandbaby I have a renewed sense that I am becoming a grandma for the very first time.

It is amazing to be part of each new miracle that is my grandchildren. I will keep you posted about the events of this amazing day. Pretty cool birthday huh, 09-09-09!

The Man of the Hour

2009-09-07T07:33:00.001-07:00

My dearest Pa-pa had surgery last Thursday. He has had a VERY active life and he has done his share of damage to his knees. He used to be a runner until his body complained so loudly that he had to finally give in and resort to speed walking and hiking up mountains. He also used to play basketball with men 20 years his junior and my father is competitive (that is not a good thing in this particular situation). He would play with injuries and broken bones just to prove he could. Well, that kind of physical abuse will finally take it's toll and it did. He had to have a knee replacement. He put it off for about 2 years and finally gave in, he had to, his golf game was being jeapordized. I also told him that when we go to Disneyland this December, I would refuse to push him in a wheelchair (truth be told, he would refuse to be pushed in a wheelchair). So off he went last Thursday morning....

Now something you should know about my dad, He is an in charge kind of guy. He doesn't like being tied down or at the mercy of others (in other words he is not an ideal patient). Now that is not to say he was not kind and gracious with those that were helping him, he was, he just did things like, get in the shower without telling anyone, or insisting they continue to walk laps around the hallways when the therapist said he was done (the physical therapist won by the way).
He was a little bit loopy when they brought him out of the anesthesia and may I say I have never seen my dad like that. He kept asking the same things over and over again. He kept trying to get out of bed. Oh, he was a rascal, that one.

Right after surgery

a day after surgery

He came home from the hospital yesterday and he tried to get out without all the usual rigamarole that accompanies discharge. The doctor said he could go, so he was going. They had to chase him down the hallway to get him to stop long enough for them to give him pain prescriptions (as if he will take those) and last minute instructions. But now he is home and happy to be there. And we are happy to see him there. What a character!

There is BEAUTY all around

2009-09-07T06:46:00.001-07:00

Fall is coming, and with it the promise of cool nights and warm days. I happily receive it's occasional rain showers and cooling winds as the heat of summer finds it's way further south with the birds.

I love the colors of the changing leaves. We traveled up the mountain on Saturday to spend the day with Mr Darcy's Aunt and Uncle at their cabin retreat. The leaves are taking on orange, red and yellow highlights as the cool night air magically makes them the color of a burning sunset.

As the day wore on into evening, I sat on the porch of the cabin watching the humming birds jockey for the best position at the feeder for their last sip of nectar before retiring for the evening. I used to think that my children could really get into a knock-down drag-out fight, until I watched these tiny little birds hovering and then striking with lightening speed, becoming a Kamakaze pilot not caring for their safety or anyone else's.

Once the sun dipped below the horizon, the temperature dropped and I gratefully accepted the handmade quilt my hostess offered me. As the sun finally melted away, the full and graceful moon took it's place giving an ethereal light to the trees and roadway, making everything look like a black and white photo.

How is it possible for such beauty to abound? The creators hand not only built this world for survival of the body but also for renewing ones soul. He knew that I personally have a very short attention span, so he gave me a change of seasons to keep me filled and wondering. This is just another testament of his love for me and I am so grateful.

Prelude-Postlude

2009-08-28T20:47:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had something in your life that not only brings you grief and regret but also tremendous joy (children do not count on this one)?

Well this is my something......
Gorgeous isn't it?
I love this instrument, this was a Valentines gift to me from Mr Darcy a couple of years ago, and I was thrilled...... but that is where the joy ends and the agony begins.

I was like any one of the multitude of youth out there that was signed up for piano lessons and then defiantly dared anyone to make me do something I had decided I did not want to do (my apologies Mrs. Shumway, for wasting your precious time).

I can spend hours at these milky white keys with the slash of black across the top, and never truly satisfy the craving I have to play, truly flow through a piece of music. Granted, I have improved, if ever slightly, but the regret I feel for not doing the work when the work was given, can never be extinguished.

And yet,
even with the 'agony of defeat', it still calls to me in silent moments, in tumultuous times, in times of sorrow....it begs me come, to stroke it's silky ivories, to pour out any and all emotions until I am spent and quiet and humbled! And at moments like these, my joy is truly complete!

Thanks for the Memories

2009-08-26T20:17:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I waste time..... mine, other peoples, you name it sometimes I waste it, but not today.....Today I spent making cards.

I told you a couple of posts back about traveling abundantly recently and with that travel comes a responsibility to Thank all the wonderful Hosts and Hostesses that make our trip successful. What better way to say thank you then with a handmade card. So I have decided to do a little bit of bragging and show off my handy work.

Now before you get too excited, I must explain. I consider myself a creative copycat. Original ideas may be foreign to me but I can copy your artwork like there is no tomorrow, so don't be disappointed when you realize they are nothing more then a paint-by-number type of card. Not like that paint-by-number on black velvet sort of thing, I like to think I am a classier copycat then that. I am hopeful that the pictures will speak for themselves.

Oh, by the way, thanks Karen for introducing this particular Mojo Monday pattern to me, I just love it!

Get Me the Crash Cart...STAT! (this has nothing to do with my post, I just always wanted to say it)

2009-08-26T07:45:00.000-07:00

I have a stat counter attached to my blog, and I find it fascinating to look at all the different places that people come from to view a blog. I had people from all over the United States as well as in foreign countries (Canada is too a foreign country). It is so amazing to think that people from around the globe can access what little old me has to say.

But what I truly wanted to blog about was not only where people come from but when people come. According to my Stat counter, most people do their blogging (at least look at my blog) on Tuesday.

I would think that is because the frantic melancholy of Monday is over and Tuesday is when people start to settle into their weekly routine. Or maybe it is because Tuesday is kind of a forgotten day of the week, you know Monday is--well 'Monday', Wednesday is hump day, Thursday is 'oh please get me to Friday', and Friday is of course 'FRIDAY'. So that leaves little old Tuesday as a gap filler between 'Monday' and 'hump day'. Why not use it to balance the check book, read a book or check a blog. Yes, I have decided Tuesday will be a 'FREE' day, you will then be released of all obligations (except child care of course) to do, or be. I have decreed it.

You know I have had great interactions with Tuesday, if I am not mistaken that is the day of the week my eldest got married, I also think one of my children was born on a Tuesday, I believe it was my second born (it was after all a very long time ago). It is also the day I prefer to go to Disneyland, less crowded. And today I realized that is the day I have had the most visits to my blog. And this last would not have been possible without my stat counter. I have a fascination with it!
Ain't modern technology somethin?

Honesty is the Best Policy

2009-08-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

Ok I was awarded the honest blogger award and I am honored and just a bit confused. If there is an award for being an honest blogger, does that mean there are dishonest bloggers out there. I mean seriously folks, isn't this the medium for pouring out your heart and soul and doing it anonymously, (well as anonymous as we get in bloggerland). So let's see, who to nominate next

Debbie-my devoted sis, who is so honest about blogging she never has. She has her own blog created by her daughter and posted by guest bloggers. Will she take up the challenge for this, no, but I respect her commitment to not blogging.

Jenny-my lovely daughter who makes me giggle when I see my beloved grandkids on her blog doing things that I would have been beside myself with anyone else seeing. (like climbing in the fridge)

Taralyn-my sweet niece who shares her joys and heartbreak of raising adorable children away from the comfort of family.

Momza-who is truly a role model for me, and yet we have never met.

Jenifer-who is the soul of honesty and integrity and I am proud of the education she constantly gives me through her blog.

Heidi-whose honesty is almost painful to me.

Joe and Missy-for honestly not posting very frequently, yet when they do it is a gem!

10 truly honest things I am admitting
1-People bother me
2-so does Gluten
3-I'm always right
4-If you think I'm ever wrong refer to #3
5-Sometimes I like to be mean
6-If you hurt my kids, I will rip your head off (just a figure of speech, sort of)
7-I want to live on Main Street in Disneyland
8-eating makes me happy
9-I am overweight because eating makes me happy
10-I once gave up chocolate for 7 years, the key word here is once.

Sorry, I posted this and then realized I had not included the rules for the above award, they are;
1-Nominate 7 worthy bloggers of this prestigious award
2-list 10 honest things about yourself

Enjoy the Ride!

2009-08-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

I am so happy today, the rain is falling intermittently and the cool air is lovely and refreshing. My what a wonderful world this is and what a wonderful creator we have to plan for all contingencies great and small. What an experience we have coming to us in this life.

ENJOY!

The man is a Chick Magnet

2009-08-24T19:27:00.001-07:00

Life is really busy!

We have been gone for the past week and a half and I just haven't taken the time to blog. Our business is one that grows and thrives when it has our personal attention, (you know, kind of like raising kids) and so that is what we have been doing.

I am lucky, the business that puts food on my table is one that has me traveling with my Mr Darcy and touring the western United States. We not only get to be together 24-7 but we see some remarkable scenery and meet extraordinary people.

Now I am not a people person myself, but Mr Darcy is the Pied Piper himself, and people love him to pieces. I am content to share in the adoration of the masses of this most remarkable man. He is quite an amazing person. He has had his share of struggles, cannot type worth a darn, spelling and he have never seen eye to eye, but still he can get more accomplished in 10 minutes then I can get done in a day. I would like to think that we compliment each other, so I do.

Well, what started out as an explanation for non-existent posts has become a tribute to Mr Darcy. See what I mean, the Pied Piper! I cannot help myself, nor do I want to. I am smitten.

Love Will Keep Us Together

2009-08-08T18:56:00.001-07:00

Today I went to a funeral for a dear sweet man that lives in my ward. There is something about a funeral that makes me reflective and serious (yes, I understand that this is normal). I tend to do a lot of soul searching after such an event and tend to make new goals and decisions after a funeral.

Here is my goal then, I vow to tell the people that I love just that, that I love them, while they are still around to hear me say it and I am still around to say it. It is all good and well to pay tribute to the deceased and expound upon their many virtues, but wouldn't it be better for those recipients to hear these words from our own mouths with their mortal ears.

Yes, that is the plan and I will start this very day. Wish me luck

CELEBRATE!

2009-08-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

What in the world is going on here, every time I turn around another one of my darling grandchildren has another birthday. My darling little Tae just celebrated her 9th birthday!

Now don't get me wrong, I am all for parties and celebrating, I just don't want them to grow up so darn fast. I hate to pull rank, but I may just have to put my foot down here. Celebrating is fine, getting older is not!
Tae had a Flip-Flop party (in my day they were called thongs) and her gorgeous and very talented mom made her the most adorable flip-flop cake I have ever seen.

At the party her guests decorated Flip-Flops that they took home with them, played many a fun game, including 'how many candies are in this jar'. At that point they ate the above pictured adorable cake with of course a respectable amount of ice cream, opened gifts and went home.
Working hard on their Flip-Flops
Showing off their handy work.

I have added pictures for your viewing pleasure. Oh and...HAPPY BIRTHDAY TAE!!!!!

Journal Entry

2009-08-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

I live in a beautiful place. The mountains surround me in their protective embrace, the blue of the lake water is visible from my porch. There are trees and green and flowers that encompass my life. My life is good, so very, very good. But for every lovely and celestial thing that abounds, there are also shadows and corners that light never seems to penetrate. Some of my family relationships are caught in those deep recesses of lightlessness.

I have a brother, only one mind you, younger then me, and he and I have never really had more then a casual relationship. He is married, with children, living not more then 7 miles from where I am typing, and we see each other only rarely. He is a good man, and I am a good person, and yet we have never met on common ground to share those things that we share due to the blood that runs through both of our veins. It makes me stop sometimes and think, what would my life be like if he were a more prevalent part of it, what would his be like. He called me on my birthday, to wish me a Happy Birthday and I was shocked and very pleasantly surprised. It not only brought a sting of tears to my eyes but a feeling of wonder that he thinks of me at important moments in my life.

I also have a sister, a dear, talented sister. She lives many miles from me and has had her share of difficulties, challenges and sadness in her life. We have recently had a gulf develop between us, a gulf of anger and miscommunication and selfishness. It appears to be taking on a life of its own and making it so difficult to bridge the growing darkening abyss that separates us. I am challenged by my 'Natural Man' and my need for my version of justice, but as with my brother she too shares the blood of our fathers that courses through our veins. We are not only siblings, we are tied together for the eternities, and I am so grateful for that. I long for the resolution and contentment and the light that comes with forgiveness and forgiving. We need to disolve the idea of 'sides' and become one together.

My job is to resolve my own issues and love without guile. I am thankful for the strength that comes not from within myself but from a Saviour that suffered all that I feel and did it willingly. He made it possible for there to be a 'second chance' to do things right. I am so eternally grateful and indebted for his sacrifice. And oh so grateful for another day to make amends, fix something broken, learn to appreciate, feel love and light.

Powerful Woman...UNITE!

2009-08-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

I know...I know I just posted but there is still more in me trying to get out...so....here is another set of Reunion pictures that I choose to call 'Girl Power'.

Sissy's hubby was late getting up to the cabin so Sis decided she and a couple of very capable woman would put up their tent!

And they DID!

YOU GO GIRLS!

Baldwin Barn Burner

2009-08-03T15:17:00.000-07:00

Well we finally had our families reunion lovingly called a Barn Burner. Chris was awesome with the planning, the games, the flags, there was something for everyone and there were times when all you had to do was sit on the swing and hang out. The cabin was a true blessing and fabuloso, Joe and Missy were wonderful to make the arrangements for us.

There is nothing like family, even with all of our warts we are who we have for eternity so if we can't get along with everyone here, it will be a very long miserable time in our futures. So we figure that we had better practice getting along, learning to love and appreciate differences and basically gaining a greater understanding of the importance of families. What a wonderful time we had and to those that didn't join us...YOU were missed and you really missed out.

At the end of it all we had a healthy competition for 'Helga' the trophy that is loved, and dare I say, coveted by all who gaze upon her. Jon and Dave Wadley's team won the privilege of keeping 'Helga' over the past two years and the Wad Squad pulled it off again. It was a great time, all of it, from gma and gpa who talked all night long to the duct taped spoon heads, we just laughed and enjoyed it all. Thanks to you all for helping and contributing in anyway, even if it was just showing up, you all made it wonderful.

Reunion pictures

2009-08-03T11:18:00.001-07:00

what a swingin mom!
Nothin to do but run and play
The 4-wheeler was awesome