EMPTY NESTERS

47 Quilts and Counting

2010-06-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

I've been working hard on several different block of the month quilts. That means you join a class that provides the fabric for the block for a fee. The one with the white background is being made with a 30's fabric. It will have some appliqueing around the edge but won't be too bad.

The red, orange, green is a class that I am taking with Terrie and Laurel Lee once a month.

This red and grey is an online quilt that has a medallion in the middle. These blocks are all differnent kinds of stars. Its gorgeous.
Terrie and I are making the civil war tribute quilt. It too is beautiful. We go to class and learn about the civil war battles. How heart breaking it is to hear about how many thousands of soldiers were slaughtered during this time. Mothers must have wept many tears knowing that not even the body of their young soldiers wouldn't be coming home--many were buried in graves with only the number of how many were buried with them. Tragic time for this young country.
This is my latest quest. It is called the Farmers Wife. It is a published book about a contest in the publication of the same name. They asked women (farm wives) to write in and tell them if they would let their daughters marry a farmer.
The book contains only part of these essays which, by the way, were all positive about their daughters marrying a farmer. Along with the essays are two 6 inch quilt blocks that coincide with the writing. This one is churn dash and maple leaf.
This is practical orchard and railroad
Aren't they cute? And so easy to produce thank goodness, because there are 111 of them to make
This is how I organize my templates because I may have to use them in another block. I like using my scraps because I have a free hand to put together fabrics I like plus I need to use up and recycle. When I have enough blocks, I will put them together with sashing. This is quite a project.
This is my work space--on the kitchen counter. I have to clean up every 2 weeks so Lindsey can come in and clean. And Mister is soo patient with me.
I try to keep my stash organized but sometimes it gets the better of me. At least now I am going to Curves and walking. I love quilting but sometimes it needs to be put aside so I can socialize with kids and grandkids and others. It hasn't taken over my life completely. Only another quilter, scrapbooker, writer, or hobbyist of some sort can understand the souls need to create something lasting.

ATV's

2010-06-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Dave and Jill invited us up to Kamas on Saturday for lunch and the chance to drive their atv's up behind the Soapstone area. What a wonderful time we had. Neither Lee nor I had ever driven them before but with a little instruction from Jill we were off and running. Dave led us up into some absolutely gorgeous places. As we drove higher the snow became deeper but slushy. Instead of going up and over, we turned back. Dave and Jill wanted to pull an atv out of a bog that another person had left there. We could tell that he had done everything he could to get himself out but the mud was too deep. When the guys came back with a truck, Dave had Jill move into position to attach the winch onto the other atv and pulled it out with ease. In the meantime 4 other atv's tried to pass our parked vehicles and got stuck in the snow. We had quite a convention up there on top of the mountain.

Dave also got a new quilt from his quilting sister. It is perfect for the cabin.

The drive down was smooth and easy going except when trying to move through the slushy snow--then they had a mind of their own as to which way they wanted to go. I tried to remember what I learned about driving through snow in drivers ed. But it didn't have quite the same effect with these machines.

We took a different path on the way down that was strewn with rocks and water. This really jiggled my britches trying to keep to the road and out of the way of rocks and trying to keep my shoes clean.

We had an awesome ride. Thanks Dave and Jill
We returned to the cabin and dinner. What could be better than great company, good food and a fun ride?

MARICOPA INDIANS

2009-11-23T07:22:00.001-08:00

Elaine wrote...

While working on the Primary Stake Board of the Phoenix Stake (there was only one then) in May 1949, word was received that they were to start a Primary among the Maricopa Indians. Th me this seemed like a wonderful oportunity which I would like to participate in. I volunteered for this position. I say position, however, we didn't know what to call me so I was never given a title.

Our first meeting or two were held under the arbor of the Sundust family and both men ,women and children came until the Relief Society was organized and then the sisters attended that and loved it. Our average attendance was 9 adults and 20 children. This was the first time they had ever learned to do something for one another--when they learned to quilt. This was done until each sister had a quilt. They learned unselfishness, they learned to do for others, and they learned to love one another around those quilts. Lola Shumway was the first Relief Society President to go out to the Reservation. They loved her. She taught them how to do for themselves.

We would leave Phoenix every Saturday morning about 9:30 AM and stay until afternoon. I didn't have a car to use so had to depend on someone to take me out. I went the entire year without missing one week. But I had many different assistants, Maude Pace being the first one to go with me. Even I couldn't have done this without my baby sitter, June Marble, a teen-ager then, who came every week and didn't charge me. I'll never forget this wonderful service she did.

We didn't have an outine to follow--my but we were green. No one knew what to tell us to do so I took the lessons from the back of the Children's Friend which appeared then for the the missions. We tried to teach them good health habits and cleanliness, along with the gospel and handicrafts. The activity they loved the most was a game of baseball after every Primary -- I enjoyed it as much as they did. It ws wonderful to drive into the school yard and see those happy, smiling faces standing there waiting forus and waving goodbye as we drove away.

Before we could hold our meetings in the school house we had to clean is up, not having been used for so many years. One of the government workers told us that we had done more in 3 months than the other hurches and the government had been able to do in 20 years.

I moved away from Phoenix 10 years ago, and I know that there has been great improvement over our humble beginning but it was a beginning with love and a sincere effort to bring to these wonderful people the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Elaine Kimball Jones
1963

A New Birth

My life was in darkness, I searched and found
The truth and the joy of my life
I shall not be afraid of the dark
Steadfast and sure will I stand
To witness for my great Spirit in Heaven
For I found joy in life
Through the teachings of the Book of Mormon
It guided my life to a new birth.

Writings by Sally Sundust, 1949

CATCH UP ???

2009-11-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

These are pics of Mom and friends.
This got in here unexpectedly. But is was truely a mystery quilt. This was for Mary for her birthday and I am working on one for Peggy now. Maybe it will be done for her birthday.

I don't think I can catch up for 3 months worth of info.

I've been busy with finishing up and presenting a beautiful Primary Program at the end of September. We had maybe 40 children and to hear them sing we had to bunch them up together close to the piano because there were so few older voices. But it was amazing and they did an incredible job.

Then the stake decided that "yes" we would designate new boundaries for each ward in the stake. Essentially, they took our ward and split it up to two other areas and gave us names instead of numbers. We are in the Falcon View ward now with many new people to get to know. Now I understand what our kids are going through when their wards are divided and they lose friendships that were just beginning. But looking through this with older eyes, Mister and I just
know that we have more friends to meet and make.

I decided not to return to the primary. (This was an option for me) It was time for new folks to take over. I was put in as the Compassionate Service Leader. This will allow me to serve a little more and get to know more people.

I have been working on our Christmas party for the Jones family. Invites are out and I will be doing a collage about Mom.

She was a beautiful woman who had a huge responsibility of seeing that her younger sisters were taken care of after the divorce of their parents.

I also made a snow white costume for Gabby. It was darling but my photos are not loading so I can't show it off. I have finished several quilts to be given away to famiy. Its been fun but now my time needs to take off in another direction. I feel like I need to be of more service than I am and will start finding ways to use my time more productively.

LUKE'S BAPTISMAL DAY

2009-07-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

Luke was baptized and confirmed by his father Levi on July 18, 2009. How proud we were to be a part of this special day to honor our oldest grandson. His father confirmed him and gave him a very special blessing. He will be a great example to his cousins.

The Miller Family was there to watch and...
so were the Smith's. A few of his friends were there also.
Momma Sandie was also very proud of her oldest son.

The Boardman's came up from Delta, Axel and Springville. Cousin Cheyenne gave a talk on the Holy Ghost and Granny B gave a talk on baptism. What a wonderful day.

New Post Finally

2009-07-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

WELL!! It has been a while since the last post. All I can say is that this hasn't been top of the priority list.

Many things have happened since April--Grandkids have had birthdays, trips have been made, swine flu has made its debut and lives have moved on.

Family Fun day was held in early June and Andrew and Lori brought their bounce houses and stayed to have fun with the kids. Next year I will insist that all the families come because it is a fun activity to be together at. Here are pics with Lori, Andrew and the kids.

One special thing that happened was the rain. It had been raining for weeks and this day was also expecting a good downpour. We heard that the high counsel member in charge of the fun was praying for weeks with his family that the rain would hold off. He said that his prayers were very specific that the rain would hold off until at least 2:00 pm. We started cleaning up about 2:00 because everything was winding down. Andrew had lots of help with the houses before the sky burst open at about 2:10. Prayers were heard and answered that day.

FAIRY TALES

2009-04-17T09:44:00.000-07:00

How do you feel about fairy tales? I grew up with Red Rose, Snow White, Grimm Brothers, and Hans Christian Anderson. My favorite book to pull from Dad's shelves and shelves of books was the Blue Book of Fairy Tales. I found out when I was older that there was a Red Book and possibly others. I think if I ran across one of those books now, I'd pay whatever price was being asked. Many parents won't let their children read them because they may be too violent but I read them for the fun of it and where my imagination took me. I have kept my school collection of fairy tales but there are so many wonderful authors now that expand the tales into novels. Shannon Hale, Robin McKinley and Jessica Day-George are just some.

I consider Brian Mull's Fablehaven series as a fairy tale. He also wrote The Candy Wars. I have just finished his newest adventure. Luke was excited that I had read them as his teacher has read them to her 2nd grade class. (Maybe a little overload there) Pick up a book at the library and sit down with a new fairy tale that you haven't read before.

EASTER SUNDAY

2009-04-15T09:15:00.001-07:00

HAPPY EASTER

Isn't that a cute image? You can get these wonderful vintage images from Vintage Moth. There is a link to the right.

We attended Stake Conference that morning and a wonderful message about just being happy was presented by Pres. Rudd. This message basically told us that it was our attitude and thoughts that would bring happiness our way. He gave several steps as to how to make that happen. Pres. Morgan reminded us about helping one another whether it be family, friends, co-workers etc. These messages were very timely, especially during the time now where everyone is struggling to stay afloat.

Afterwards, we got in our little blue taxi and headed to Sandie's for a lovely Easter dinner. Everyone was there so we tried to get a decent picture with the Grandkids for a Christmas card. This is the best one. 2 criers, 2--the sun is in my eyes and 3 wiggles. Lilly sat on Granny's lap just taking it all in.

DESERET STAR PLAYHOUSE

2009-04-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

Saturday part of the family attended a silly rendition of American Idol. It was cute and the little ones enjoyed it. I, however, found the singing afterwards was very good. They performed songs from the mid-60's that the grandma's and grandpa's enjoyed.

In front are Caedan, Luke and Bubba (Ethan). He is just a bubble of fun!!

Front--Anna, Olivia and Bubba Back--Sophia, Macy and Mark
Jen, Alex, Kristie and Sandie along with 2 silly boys Luke and Caeden
Last but not least--Lee, Laurie, Mary and Uncle Animal (Joe)

PAJAMA DAY

2009-04-13T10:02:00.001-07:00

I was privileged to be able to have 2 of my boys for a Friday. They came in pj's and didn't want to get out of them all day. I stayed in mine until noon when I suddenly got fearful of someone coming to the door. NO ONE wants to see "the momma" in her jammies.

We watched cartoons, played and jumped around on Gramma's new furniture.
Even Lil' Butt felt like he needed to take it easy.

After lunch we got out games and made cookies. (We put the frozen cookies on the pan, then cooked them.)

LIFE CAN BE A LITTLE MUNDANE

2009-03-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

This little stool belonged to my mother. She used it at her sewing machine during the early 60's. I have no idea where she got it from but she was visiting with her Aunt Vi up in the avenues quite a bit. Aunt Vi passed some things on to her and this might have been one of those items.

I recall Mom saying that she would like to recover this stool. Well as we all know, these things are low on the priority list and never got done. This little stool just kept on giving and giving. It must be 50 years old at least and is as sturdy as can be. I purchased a print to finally get it covered.

I took it apart and spent several hours hunting for new material to put in as filling. I couldn't find anyone to sell me anything but foam rubber. YUCK!!! I looked at the padding again and decided that it could be saved. I put a piece of thin batting over it and then the fabric. I stapled it together and this is what a now have. A beautifully covered sewing stool that can be passed on with my sewing machine.

NEW QUILT

2009-03-18T07:06:00.000-07:00

This quilt is finally done. It turned out quite beautiful and one of my lovely children will be the beneficiary of it. It just delights to make them and give them. Enjoy!!

HAPPY,HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2009-03-12T07:35:00.000-07:00

There is such peace when your family gathers around to let you know that they love you and that you really are important in their lives. I've often said that it isn't only young people that need the positive strokes in their lives. Those of us who are getting just a "tad" older need that also. I spent my birthday day in the best way possible--with much of my family and very little of that was planned as we had celebrated everyone last week.

As I was leaving the house to go out to Jane's, Cathy Smith arrived with a Dove chocolate bar from the Relief Society to remember my birthday. M & M's are really good but a Dove bar to start your day-mmmmmm!! I drove to Jane's to tend Lilly and Urban while Jane went out to her Dad's school to help with his reading tests. Then she brought lunch home and we had a nice visit. While I was there Dall called to see what I was doing tonight and if we went to a restaurant in between, he'd meet us there. We chose the Dodo out near Sugarhouse Park. It's one of our favorites. We had a nice visit with Dall about school, housing, and life.

Mister brought home these beautiful roses. I told him that this was a rare occurance. I don't remeber the last time I had roses and then he reminded me that I once said that I would rather have daises than roses. I must have been quite young when I said that.

Levi and the boys also called along with Andrew and Zach. We had a small conversation about our birthdays. Earlier Jane and Urban sang Happy Birthday.

So why are birthdays so special. I personally don't think its the presents but the focus that is put on that person to let them know how much they are loved and appreciated. Thank you everybody. My family is my treasure. And my extended family only adds that much more. I love you all. --I am soooo sappy.---

MARCH BIRTHDAYS

2009-03-03T07:16:00.001-08:00

IT'S FINISHED!! This was a fairly easy quilt to do but the colors are incredible--black, white and that vibrant yellow. This photo doesn't do it justice. This is the kit I found in Las Vegas last fall while we toured the Henderson area. I'm glad we stopped. I haven't seen this quilt kit any place else.

I washed after I brought it back from the quilters so it would be softer. Look closely at the amazing job she did with the quilting. I was very pleased with it.
WE'VE HAD A BIRTHDAY, SHOUT HURRAY!!! Zach turned 4 and here he is with his Mom, sister, and IRON MAN. He isn't feeling very well.
Dallin turned 28. Oh, how time flies. I remember meeting this young man when he was a mere 10 lbs and ready to play football. ( and beautiful) He loved the quilt, thank goodness.
Levi turned 34 and the Momma turned 63. Oh, whoa is me.... The kids decided that I needed something special. Isn't is gorgeous?? I said that it would make a nice sewing bag but they put the nix on that. j/k I know better than that. I was impressed with their good taste and I love it. Only Mister knows how much I like an expensive bag--not out of pride, but out of I don't like to buy a new purse every season. So I buy a good one that will last me for a few years.
Well, it was a good party and everyone loved the dipped beef and potato salad. The big hit though was the cake. Even those who don't usually eat cake enjoyed this one. It was a bundt cake from that new cake store over by the mall.

Have a good day everybody.

MC HAMMER

2009-02-27T20:24:00.000-08:00

For goodness sakes, what does MC Hammer have to do with my blog? Do I even know who he is? Well actually I do know that he is a rapper, but that's now what he is doing on my blog. I am still trying to learn the ins and outs of photos and how to get them over here. My children just tell me to right click but MAC's don't have a mouse with that ability. I did learn though, that I can buy one and it will do the same thing. I also learned how to put emailed pics into my iphoto. Janice if you want a lesson I can help.

So, why MC Hammer? Today Mister and I went to the mall to return an item and there was a huge lovesac lounge bus and a very beautiful limo parked in front of Macy's--like it was a natural thing to park there. I nosed around and found out MC and his "entourage" were shopping. I went in to do my return and Mister went to men's dept. When I went down to find him, there were several, (obviously) fancy people in the area. One stood out from all the rest. He had on jeans trimmed in red thread and fancy designs, a belt and buckle that men around here wouldn't be caught dead in, jewelry, hair done up like a peacock and a smart cap on his head and talking on his phone. The other folks had an "air" about them that set them apart from the rest of us. We decided that must be MC.

When I got home I googled and found these pics of a man who was walking out ahead of us and could have been your next door neighbor. Oh, how easy it is to judge.

LIL' RAMBLES

2009-02-20T20:35:00.000-08:00

Nothing of note has had a major part in my life at this point so this is one of those "rambling" kind of blogs.

1. I finished 3 books that I felt were excellent reads

Veil of Lies

The Magicians and Mrs. Quent

Missing Joseph

2. Uncle Leonard has decided that I have too much time on my hands. I pass on the interesting emails that I get. At least I'm not looking for them.

3. I went to see Slumdog Millionare tonight even though it is R rated. It was excellent. Sometimes you have to listen to the advice of others and make a judgement call. On their recommendation we decided that it was a must see. It was. I'm not quite sure about the rating but there was some violence. Even the language wasn't bad, but everyone knows that I can't hear well.

4. We also saw Pink Panther. So-so.

5. I spent Tuesday at the Draper Temple. Morning I hauled water to and from the table until the men finished unloading the semi and then they helped. It was just so sweet to see those young parents bringing their sweet and well-mannered children up to the refreshment table. They were mostly dressed in their Sunday best. In the evening Lee and I hosted in the temple near the sealing rooms. The Celestial room was incredible with that gorgeous chandelier that extended so far from the ceiling. Beautiful. I also recognized a few of my former students as they came through with their YM-YW groups. We were worn out after serving in the temple but it was a good kind of tired.

6. I bought a few of those new style of blouses that are made from a soft fabric that clings to the body. My kind of body in those clingy kind of blouses is waaay sad. I took them back.

7. I won at bonco last night. I sub sometimes. The prize was a steamer buddy that you take when traveling. Not what I can use so I returned it to Macy's and bought a white pitcher and 6 little dessert bowls. This is my 4th pitcher so now I guess I am in a collection mode. ( The girls can divide them up when I'm gone.)

8. I finished my appliqued quilt. It turned out beautiful and the first one that I will keep for myself--finally. I'll post pictures when it comes back from the quilters.

9. I am reading up on NO-nitric oxide. I am going to see if it lives up to all its expectations concerning blood pressure.

10. I have spent 2 days with grandchildren. I'm glad that I was fairly young when I was raising mine.

HAVE A GREAT DAY!

VALENTINE'S DAY

2009-02-05T13:31:00.001-08:00

Little Butt and I were munching on our pink M & M's (thanks Alissa) and appliqueing when my eyes finally gave out. It is such fine work that I think I'll have to invest in one of those lights with a magnifying glass before long. So we were thinking about what to blog about next. Since it is February (I actually saw this word spelled Febuary on GMA yesterday. Which reminds me of a funny email I got from Sue today. I'll pass it along.) Valentines come to mind. I think that Valentine's Day has become one of my favorite holidays. It is such a sweet, personal time that speaks to almost everyone.

For the last 3 years my dear principal would dress up in his tux and walk around with a handful of fake roses and present one to each of his teachers. It was just one of the many ways that he said "thank you." I have kept these roses in this vase that was given to be by a student many years ago. I think her name was Becky Richards, but my mind is slowing down and I'm not sure. But it was the thought that counts.

I haven't kept many things given to me by students just because of the storage issues that I deal with But this vase of flowers has come to mean a lot to me not only for its beauty. (my opinion) but for the many lovely things I remember about the children I have come in contact with over the many years.

Valentine's Day in the 60's and 70's was looked upon as a time when you gave a card to that special person with no strings attached. Then it became like Halloween, how much candy did you get. Still it was a time when kindness was at it's peak during the year and a time to show your teacher how much you cared. The Valentine for the teacher was always picked out of the bunch as a special one and the child always wanted to make sure you saw his/hers first.

There was always a sick child who worried that their cards wouldn't get passed out or they wouldn't get any.

My favorite part was when the children would "quietly" sit and open their cards to see if so and so had given them one and to see if it was a special one.

I have found it interesting that among my fathers things we found a classroom set of Valentine Day cards. Probably 4th or 5th grade. He had saved them for whatever reason. They are beautiful. I have provided pics of some of them and I am think of having them framed as a collage. What do you think?

Aren't they sweet? There are Victorian-like with lace and flowers, children with those beautiful round faces, silly ones like the clown and even a horse that stands up. Girls, what do you think? Should I just do one for me as a collage or four so each of you can have one.

Yes, I enjoy Valentine's Day. And I have the sweetest, most understanding and loving Valentine of all. My Mister!!!!

SACRIFICES

2009-01-29T08:22:00.001-08:00

For all of you lovely people that commented on what a nice thing I did for Olivia, I thank you. But doing a quilt for her at this point was not a sacrifice because I loved doing it. And the colors just called out to Olivia. We are so blessed to have her in all of our lives. Having special needs children in our family only blesses us. Each one of our grandchildren is so rich in personality (I like to refer to it as their spirit) that it amazes me that they originate from Mom and Dad (along with their other G-grandparents). I love it. Can you imagine how my parents feel and then go back each generation and realize the love that those folks must have for their descendants. Its over-powering.

Now, this is sacrifice. Having my cute little room over run with ironing that has stacked up for 3 weeks. Mister is getting a little perturbed especially Sunday mornings when there isn't a white shirt in the closet. Butt and I try to get it done but he hasn't learned how to hold the iron in his paw. It is hard to pull away from what I enjoy doing just to look at this pile. I've tried to find items that are wrinkle free but they are more expensive and Mister just loves to find a sale on $20 pants and $10 shirts so he stocks up but never gives away.

I did this to myself, you know. When we married, Mister would pull out a shirt to wear to work that hadn't been ironed. I know a lot of young men did this but "sweet me" couldn't stand to have my man wear a wrinkled shirt. So, low and behold, I made sure his were ironed. Now he can't stand not to have an ironed shirt. Oh, wo is me!!

Below, is my next applique project. It is always important to have something in your hands to keep you busy so I am going to try applique. I have taken a class and now I have to practice. Those points and V's are going to be my undoing. But isn't it pretty? I had to go to Material Girls to take pictures so I could recall what fabric was needed where. Now I have to return because I'm missing a piece. Wouldn't be so bad if the store was around the corner. Its out in South Jordan.

Have a good day, I'm back to my sacrifice and hope to have it done today.

LATEST QUILT

2009-01-23T15:07:00.000-08:00

I just had to pull myself away from Clive Cussler's book, The Navigator. Hard to do when the book is so involved. I have read most of his books and overall they are an intense read.

Mister had a funeral that we had to attend. You know, one of those obligatory kind of things. Four grandchildren spoke and more or less said the same thing. 2 would have been enough. Then a soloist sang "In Her Rocking Chair". The voice was absolutely gorgeous but the song was sooo sappy and waaaayyy over the top. Then a former bishop rambled on and on and on. I hope none of them ever read this blog. And my funeral hadn't better be boring.

Mister also developed some kind of eye infection that his doctor had no idea what it was so sent him to an eye specialist. Turns out the oil glands that keep the eye moist were clogged up and a pouch of gunk gathered at the bottom under the skin. He had to have it lanced which pushed all of his "don't hurt me" buttons. Now when he tells you about, just listen patiently because it will take a lot longer than this to tell about it.

I finished a quilt. It turned out beautiful. I have decided that when I finish a quilt, that it has to be given away. I don't want to collect them and just have them laying in closets.

It is the size of a baby quilt but big enough to cuddle with. I cut squares. Lots of squares. I thought I had cut enough for 2 quilts. Not so! I made a grid on the white muslin and placed the squares where I wanted them.
Then I glued the squares with a small dot of glue and then sewed the grid in place.
This was the result. It is beautiful. After I washed it, it needed a good hair cut. While making this colorful quilt, I knew who it would go to. Our little Livvie. She took to it in her own way.

We all love Olivia. And Sophie, I'm looking for something just right for you. And all you other cousins, you just have to wait.

GRANNY B'S PARKING SPOT

2009-01-20T22:03:00.000-08:00

I did it again. Last Oct I paid twice what I should have online for our Donnie and Marie tickets. Keep that in mind while I tell you a tale that will probably be told at my funeral as one of the idiotic things that Granny B did.

I found a good price for the Walking with Dinosaur exhibit up at the Evolution Ctr. (Delta). They were only $5.oo so I bought 12 without talking to any of the kids. I figured for that price if they couldn't go it wasn't a big loss. I proceed to call everyone and set up the date and time. Organize our group so we can do this all together. The little boys are excited to see these big moving dinosaurs.

The afternoon on the day of the program I receive a call reminding me that I have purchased reservations for parking. I ask Lee to listen because I didn't think my ears were hearing the message clearly. Lee asked to see my tickets and I showed them to him. They had seat #'s and row #'s. They certainly had to be tickets to the program. I got such a good deal on them. Lee called and found that I had bought 12 tickets for reserved parking for the program. The numbers indicated the space.

I was so humiliated I cried. To set up something so special and then to have the bottom drop because of a silly mistake was terrible. To redeem myself Lee and I took those that would go to the dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point. It wasn't the same, bones just don't have the same appeal to a 5 year old as does a robot that has skin, moves and roars. What will be my next faux pax?

4 YEAR OLD POINT OF VIEW

2009-01-16T10:42:00.001-08:00

These are the kinds of pics you get when 4 year old Cort grabs the camera. He wanted to take some pictures of his new puppy, Titan.

It reminds me of when we took the kids to Disneyland. Dallin was 3 or 4 and didn't want to ride in a stroller. I couldn't understand though why he always wanted to be held while we waited in lines for rides until I figured out that from his point of view, all he saw were legs and behinds.

BUTTON, BUTTON

2009-01-11T15:06:00.001-08:00

Somebody put a nickel in and it got stuck. Button was up until 2:00 a.m. last night being his charming self after a chocolate high. He got into "the mama's" stash while we were out to dinner and ate his fill. I didn't tell Lee this or he would have made me clean up all the messes and stains around the house. Lee thought it was a piece of sausage that he left out. I didn't correct him.

Sooo besides the throw up, he gets on a super high and he can't sleep so he doesn't let any once else sleep either. He is up and down, up and down. On the bed, off the bed. On the bed, off the bed continuously until he can eliminate enough of the effects of the chocolate. Think of him with EVEREADY batteries in him. He would take his toy bunny and race up and down the hall if he wasn't outside taking care of business. This went on until 2:00 am. I let Mister sleep while I sat up and read Meet Amazing Grace and played Sudoku. When 6:00 am came I could barely react to the alarm. It was Ward Conference and I had to be on my best behavior in Primary.

2009-01-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

Mister and I have had a busy Saturday. It was cold outside (on the bitter end of cold) so I stayed in and nursed my second cold of this short season. Coughing, runny nose, sore throat and not wanting to see anybody. But I have been on the phone all morning answering questions about changes being made in primary. From "do I really have the right manual?" to "I don't think I'm supposed to be in this class."

I have been getting ready for Ward Conference for next week. The stake has asked us to do a shared sharing time so I am working with the stake Primary President to do a special sharing time. I'll be happy when it is over. We also have our Primary breakfast next Saturday for the teachers to get acquainted with their new classes. That's always a fun day.

Mister and I spent our Christmas money. He put together our new TV table without one unkind word to me or the dog. Look how good it looks.

I on the other hand took my gift card to The Material Girl and bought more than it was worth. Sandie asked the owner if all this money should be spent on one gift card. SURPRISE!!
The above is a pattern to do a small quilt of appliqued doll dresses.
These are kits and fat quarters that will keep me happy for quite awhile.

Come on you guys, give me some attention. Look at all the things I do to make you happy. You never come home without a happy bark and a jump. You laugh when I play with my toys. And you love to see my face in the window when you come home. I love you. Pay me some attention.

While I am preparing for ward conference, Lee is pondering the material he is preparing for the lesson in high priests this Sunday.

He works so hard on these lessons.

Dad took time out to go to the UofU basketball game with Wyoming. He took Andrew and they had a great time together. Butt tries one more time to be noticed. He's a cutie. Sandie and Levi got a new dog--well, Levi got a new dog for the kids. Sandie was not happy. He is a cute Australian Shepherd but getting him out of that puppy stage will take some time and patience.

CELEBRATION 2009

2008-12-31T07:43:00.001-08:00

CELEBRATE! CELEBRATE! DANCE TO THE MUSIC! It's our final payment for the remodel..

Sweet is the PEACE like Dave Ramsey says. Financial bondage is really just that!! This time next year we might be able to say good-bye to our house mortgage and then who knows what life is going to hand to us. We are celebrating tonight with a big party. Enjoy your NEW YEAR!!!

(Granite counter tops sure sound nice right now)

THE DAY AFTER CHRISTMAS

2008-12-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas came so quickly. I wasn't as prepared as I might have been, but it didn't seem to matter. Dallin asked me why we didn't have a big dinner on Christmas. My answer was that I hadn't ever had a big dinner on this day as a child and we pass on what we have done. Just as the little Santa made by my mother comes out every year, I hope that one of my children will want it to bring out every year in their home.

The tricycle will go to Dall. I bought each of the children specific ornaments over the years that meant something to me. Dallin always wanted mail to come in the mailbox for himself.

We all enjoyed Christmas day together even though the weather was quite snowy. The cousins had fun playing together. They still think they are brothers and sisters who live in different houses.

Cort entertaining himself with the Bat Cave.

Dad finally got his Navy veterans hat. I did good!!

Caeden and Zach appearing like

little "dorks".

Dallin helps Cort with his toy while Ryan patiently waits. Andrew and Lori watch as the kids open presents.

Gabby played with her new baby dill while Lilly tries out her new bike.

Button and Urban tease each other over who gets to play with the toy.

This is a picture from our front porch. It looks like wonderland.

After everyone leaves, Lee has to shovel a path for Button so he can go potty.

And what did I do the day after? I went to the Material Girls fabric shop and spent my gift card. And definitely had fun doing it. Love to all and may your New Year be a good one.

TALKING TO MYSELF

2008-12-20T18:22:00.000-08:00

Nothing of any great magnitude has happened recently so rather than let my blog go unheeded I am just going to talk to myself about things going through my head at this time of the year. I couldn't take any pictures of that.

Sister Bangerter came over the other night to talk to me about ward conference. This sister is one of the sweetest individuals that I have ever worked with. And she makes me feel so confident about what I am doing as Primary President. Even adults need to know that what they are doing is important. I appreciate her positive attitude. It wants me to do even more than I am. Ward conference is in January and she has asked that I work with her on a sharing time rather than having the stake do it themselves.

Another thing she asked me to do is talk about my counselors and secretary. So I am going to do it here as a rehearsal. Ruth is an anchor. She is positive and outgoing. Her knowledge of the gospel is incredible and her sharing times keep the children in the palm of her hands. I know that she has so much going on at home but she doesn't let it phase her outlook or attitude about Primary. She meets with each of the families of our soon to be baptized 8 year olds and talks to them about what to expect. I love working with her. And most of all she is dependable!!

Lyssa has her ear to the ground. She listens to the needs of many of our mothers who have children with special needs and she is able to advise not only them but us as to how to work with our little ones. She is a doer. Her sharing times always try to involve the children in an active way. If we need something special like loaves of pumpkin bread, she says, "oh, it will only take me 20 minutes. Dinner at her home was sumptuous affair that everyone enjoyed. It isn't very often that we can catch her out of sorts. She is upbeat and positive most of the time. And she is responsible!!!

Carole is our newest member of the presidency. She feels she doesn't do much but that will end shortly. Actually, she has been a much needed help in our primary. As she sees a need she doesn't hesitate to put herself in a place that will help the teacher. And I love her humor. Our meetings provide an outlet for all of us to visit with an adult. She makes us laugh. I'm so grateful to have her nearby. Plus she is responsible and dependable!!! I couldn't ask for a greater group of women to work with.

Being Primary President doesn't mean a "lick" if you don't have the right people in place to support you. And that goes for our teachers too. They are wonderful.

Today Lee and I decided to go shopping at Fashion Place Mall. We headed out to Lori and Andrew's to take some non-Christmas items. Their children are so sweet and Twinkle loves to see her Granny B. since I have been doing some babysitting there for the last few Mondays. (I forgot my Monday hair appt. again and had to call Sharleen and humbly apologize for the 5th time. My hair is getting way out of control.)

We hit the freeway and came to a major halt about 6800 So on State. After 15 minutes waiting to turn, we "flipped a U-ey and headed down State to go to Costco. Uh-oh as we parked in the back acre, I forgot my purse at Lori's. Now what? I didn't have the checkbook. Lee had $80 in cash so we went and spent it all.

Back to Lori's to get my purse and then to Deseret Book where we met up with Connie and Scott Olson from the old neighborhood. We visited for a good half hour while Dad danced around because he was actually on his way to the rest room. It was good to see them. Their oldest grandson is actually 18. Strange because his mother Lisa used to tend my children when she was a teenager.

Time passes on. Others may be getting older but I'm not. I still have the attitude and energy that I had when I was 30!! (Don't I?)

BRAGGING RIGHTS

2008-12-11T20:23:00.000-08:00

Sooooo, you ask, "what have you been doing since retirment. Well, come and take a look.

This one is in the works. Cute, huh?

I couldn't pass this kit up. I love it. I'm not sure who is going to get it. The black and white with the yellow is beautiful. Have I told you how much I like fabric. Todays pieces are stunning!!
This kit was on sale and the finished product will go with the colors in our "new" sitting/TV room. It is probably big enough to make 2 lap quilts.
I like to document what I have made. This twin size quilt is made of strips of different flannel pieces. It is gorgeous along with the quilting. The one thing I was disappointed in is that I bought an inexpensive (cheap) piece of flannel to put on the back. I can see it wearing out faster than the top. Too bad, but I'm learning.
This quilt was given to Urban for his 3rd birthday. These are dinosaur panels with colorful backgrounds and sashing.
This is a cutie! A Mary Engelbreit panel with her fabrics outlining the picture. The green are pieced scallops that are sewn down only on one side.

Yes, I have had fun! Knock on wood. I hope I can continue doing what I enjoy for a while.

JONES' FAMILY DEC. 2008

2008-12-08T07:15:00.001-08:00

Uncle Leonard, this is for you. We remember the times you and Aunt Joyce played Santa Claus for our children. It was such a treat. Our family party has become a family reunion of sorts. Almost everyone attends and the little ones look forward to the fun. David organized us last year when Jill and he put together a wonderful bunch of fun. This year Richard and Jodie had to perform and it went just as well.

The main "mama's and the papa's. Not my favorite picture but the picture takers feel that they need to take a pic like this at every opportunity.

This little girl is our newest at 6 mos. old. Lillian Elaine is named after her great-grandmothers. I call her Miss Lilly. She belongs to Jane and Greg.
Sidney (Ally's daughter) and Jodie making their craft.
Eva (Susie's), Nate and Wiil (or is it Will and Nate) finishing their candy canes.

"Little" Joe and cousin Andrew. Joe's wife Brittney in the back

A special tradition that David's good friend Jill and Tara put together last year were posters and pictures of our family. What fun it is to see those old pics blown up. Pictures that really shouldn't see the light of day. Jen is at left. Gabby found someones shoes and floated around for some time in them. She is a character. She is only 18 months old but into everything. I call her Twinkle for being our first granddaughter. On right is Ben, Jill with Baby Lucas who belongs to Brady and Vanette.

Left, Harrison and Eva (Susie's). Next is Jane's Urban working hard on his craft. I am sitting with Zach (Andrew's) and Urban.

Here are some of the family jewels, Richard and David.

Left, Tara, Sandie and Brittney. Middle, Mary, Jill (Wes' wife) and Darren, who is the lucky man to be married to the "Queen" Tara. Susie and Jane are serving up the cookies.

Isn't this a cute pic? These are my g-sons, Zach, Luke and Caeden.

We can't forget Dallin and Andrea who faithfully bless us with their company. Here is Santa with Cort. You gotta love that blond head of hair. He has so many callicks (sp) that Sandie finds it easier to keep long.

Zach on Santa's knee and look what Queen Tara got. A pink satiin Christmas stocking declaring her queen (of what?).

Jane is getting Lilly's gift who is asleep in Daddy's arms.

This is Macy and Sophie (Kris and Jen's girls)

Below left, Olivia, and Anna.

Middle, Richard, Uncle Animal, David and Lee wearing their dorky reindeer glasses.

Wes playing with the girls.

I know I haven't got all the cousins and their kids here but when Tara and Sandie get their blogs up to date, you'll be able to see more. This has been a fun tradition. We miss all that older generation that would loved to have been here if they hadn't checked out so early. We were reminded of the nose warmers that Aunt Norie made for each of the men. We wish they had not been discarded. I'm sure our children will have wonderful memories of these great times together. I love you all and Uncle Leonard we wish you could be here.

Traditional Keepsakes or Crafting

2008-12-06T20:11:00.001-08:00

I have been sick for the last couple of days with the 24 hour bug, which meant staying close to the potty. While laying in bed and sewing on a quilt I began thinking about where my interest came from for the kinds of crafts I like to do.

We are our parents in so very much of what we do whether we like it or not. (Sorry Kids) When I was 8 or 9 I remember Mom sewing our clothes on Grandma Jones' treadle sewing machine. It wasn't long before I became interested in what she was doing. I was right at that age where I wanted to try my hand so she taught me how to cut out a skirt that could be sewn with straight lines. It had an elastic waist. I can't imagine that I wore it very often but it was a beginning.

Then Aunt Norie patiently showed me how to crochet a chain. When I was older I made several crocheted blankets, my favorite being the one I use for the grandchildren's blessings.

When I reached the age of 10 Mom saw to it that I was given sewing lessons through the Singer sewing center found near Kress on Main Street. I would pack my little sewing case and ride the bus uptown each Saturday. I made a little cotton dress with a mandarin collar and little pleats or tucks down the front. At least I knew something about sewing when I reached high school and that teacher that made us take out those seams so much.

When I came home from college, Mom was into doing ceramics. I spent hours at those tables painting, scraping, fixing the broken greenware. I made several pieces that have since been sent to DI as their use became out of style. Sandie has the one piece that I saved, a porcelain piece of a little girl in prayer. Mom made the nativity set. She was very proud of it.

The above pics are pieces that I have cherished. The Santa was a candy dish made from pieces of felt. Aunt Joyce was a great crafter, she always had something for us to hang on the tree. Mom, I believe made the tree for Aunt Norie and the grapes I love. We must have discarded Mom's grapes she made so my friend Terri gave these to me until I'm gone and then they need to be returned to her.

So sewing has come easy to me. I'm not patient and want things done yesterday but I love a good stash of fabric. And since I know that I don't have to hand quilt any more I'm more excited than ever to get my pieces done.

POINT LOMA

2008-12-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

Our final day was spent on a harbor cruise of San Diego. Lee especially enjoyed this because of the naval presents there. The cruise guy related a lot of naval history that happened in this area. Then Lee started to converse with the man behind and found that he too, was a radio operator on a sub. They had a lot to talk about. Lee learned that the Marriott was built on the old Liberty Station site that once held barracks that he lived in during 1966 when he was training.

After the cruise we headed over to Anthony's for a bowl of clam chowder and lobster tail. That was the best soup. Its almost worth a trip just to get a bowl and go to Miguel's Mexican Restaurant.

We had packed that morning and set out to find a motel that was on the CHEAP end because the Marriott broke the bank. After hunting for a few blocks we decided to stop at the Dolphin Inn because it looked clean. It sat among these giant hotels just begging for a look. It was right out of the '50's. The rooms were small but clean. The owner was on site and made us welcome. He employed people who wore shirts and ties and the 2 women who cleaned the rooms were very friendly. The beds bounced with old springs and surprisingly gave us our best nights sleep. Miguel's was just around the corner so we had to go there again.

The motel owner encouraged us to go out to Point Cabrillo before we left. These pictures are from the beach. I sincerely think that I could live by the ocean. The sounds of the waves hitting the beach and the rocks have such a peaceful sound. This walk was wonderful. We then headed over to the visitors center to learn more about the history of Juan Cabrillo. Then we went outside to look at the vistas. We had to look fast because the fog was literally rolling in fast and quiet. We were never able to climb up to the statues because of the fog.

We left after this and got on the freeway to head home. With an overnighter in Mesquite we were in Sandy by 2:00 picking up a happy puppy. We were glad to get home but the trip was wonderful and will definitely plan another road trip to somewhere else soon.

SEA WORLD

2008-11-30T17:21:00.003-08:00

Just enjoy the pictures. We enjoyed the day and these are just a few of the sites we saw. These birds were my favorite. Lee bought tickets into the back areas. We were able to see the baby sharks and learn about the shark eggs they were breeding. Fascinating.

These seals were brought in to be protected because of their injuries in the wild. Since my heart goes out to animals of all kinds, I loved this part of the tour. I should have been a vet. No, that means treating the injured and I couldn't handle that. Maybe I should run an adoption farm for greyhounds. That would be just the right thing for me. (But then I would never want to adopt them out.)

I tried to find just a visor. Instead I had to buy the hat that all the little old women wear, the hat with the huge front brim. Oh, wait, Lee says I am an old woman. Dang!!!
Below is an old walrus but I enjoyed watching the bird that moved along his back feeding off whatever he could find.
This was about 2:00 in the afternoon and we were pooped. I asked Lee if we really had to go to the dolphin show. He said yes. It was at the end of the day and we just went in and sat on the 4th row. The announcer kept saying "don't sit in the first 6-8 rows or you'll end up getting soaked." I didn't care, I was too tired to move. Lee kept at me though and finally I said, "Fine, lets move!!!" Those people who sat in our old seats were soaked. Sometimes I'm grateful for Lee. We headed back to the Marriott and dinner at Miguels'

I want you all to know that we don't have a Mexican restaurant that compares to Miguels'. Their food was incredible. I always have a chile relleno because it is easy for me to eat. It was wonderful and the flan!!! To say the least we did dinner there 2/3 nights. It is worth going back to Point Loma for a repeat.

A NEW ADVENTURE

2008-11-30T16:39:00.000-08:00

This early man site is just outside of Yermo. My father insisted we visit this site after he read an article about it in the National Geographic. Early man would trek from up in Alaska and travel down through this area. How this was discovered was through a dig and what took place here was a stopping off point where tools were made. It wasn't the tools that were found but the shavings that were left. When I saw this for the first time, the dig was marked off into squares with string and each square was numbered. It was interesting to us as a family. (abt. 1956)

As time went on the dig was made deeper and buildings were put up to house what was found. The grids were now several feet deep and there was at least one more site being dug. (1970) I drove there this time with Richard, Shirley and friend Darold.
This time I sweetly encouraged Lee to stop by the dig to see what was going on. The place looked like a ruin itself. It doesn't look like anyone is digging although it was a Sunday. There was a path of sorts that we followed up to the digs but the museum wasn't open even though the sign indicated that it should be. After this disappointment, we didn't even go up to Calico. At one time Knotsberry Farm took it over as a park, but by all indications they must have sold it because it also was in a state of disrepair.

We headed on to San Diego and found a Marriott that charged an arm and a leg. We had gotten lost again so as it got dark and we were discouraged and growling at each other. We took the palatial Marriott room that even had a balcony to sit on. We were tired.

Las Vegas Temple

2008-11-27T06:26:00.000-08:00

We had decided to go to at least one of the temples while we were out of state and this one seemed appropriate at the time. It is a beautiful temple in a quiet neighborhood. It was a small quiet session that left us with a peaceful, sweet feeling.The celestial room is one of the most beautiful that I have seen, almost silver and cut glass in appearance.
The couple above have just been married. What a difference it was to the one we saw on the strip. A harmonious beginning for this sweet couple.

After returning to our hotel to change, we headed to Boulder City to see the Hoover Dam. It was a dam ride to get there. Boulder was a small city but one that was well groomed and taken care of. You could tell that people enjoyed living there. The dam was about 10 minutes outside the city. If you have never been there or heard the history, you are in for a treat. The dam was a project developed under the guidance of Pres. Hoover. The Colorado River was always flooding in the spring and places like Yuma, AZ were constantly being inundated with water. Many deaths were attributed to this flooding.

To me this dam could be one of the wonders of the world. I went with may parents in the early 50's and took the tour with my family. I was so frightened by the immensity of this work that I vowed never to return. Lee was a lucky man because I gave in to his big desire to see this dam. I was blown away at the greatness of this place. It was amazing to hear how they diverted this great river so they could dig down to the bedrock. This statistics were incredible. The cement itself was poured into great blocks and had to dry before others were added to the top. A system of cooling tubes were invented so the drying took only a few days. INCREDIBLE!
A new road is being built that will replace the old one and a new bridge (itself a modern wonder as can be seen in this photo) is being built across the gorge so that traffic doesn't have to cross the dam. The angular piece under the bridge is the beginning of the arch that will support the road. The arch is being built on both sides and will meet in the middle. Truly, a marvelous feat of engineering. Someone told me that bridges with cables like the Golden Gate aren't made any more.

We headed back to our hotel for one more night. It is really getting easier to get around Henderson now. Cute city.

DAY 2 LAS VEGAS

2008-11-25T06:58:00.000-08:00

You knew this had to happen!! These little buddies just made my mouth water but I didn't indulge. Instead I bought them as a Christmas ornament. Following are some of the pictures we took as we walked along the strip. These pics allow you to see what the strip is all about.

All along the street there were clusters of young men and women flicking there ads to make a noise to get you to notice them. This is a job that to me indicates how low some individuals have to go to make ends meet. They sure didn't seem unhappy about what they were doing.
Another thing often seen in Vegas are the numerous weddings taking place. This one seemed quite sophisticated.
I felt like we were back in Thailand at the outdoor markets. No bartering here!!
At last, what we came for. Donnie and Marie put on an incredible show. They still had a lot of energy and humor. In the end Marie challenged Donnie to a dance competition. For an old man he kept up with her quite easily.

2008-11-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

The room is painted. Notice the little water color brush Lee had to use to fix some spots. Its done and we are using it as a sitting/TV/reading/quiet room for ourselves.

Button was taken
to be boarded and we are off to Las Vegas. The music is in and off we go singing with the Platters. We reached Las Vegas about 3:00 and

then had to wind our way around to Henderson where our hotel was. You'd think that would be easy but no it took us many, many, many, many minutes to just find the right freeway but by dinner time we were settled.

This is a picture of a new quilt I bought. It should be pretty easy to put together and have ready for a Spring birthday.

I am going to talk about our trip in shifts because I have such a hard time dealing with the pictures still. So one day at a time. Love to all.

HONESTY

2008-11-21T07:25:00.000-08:00

I consider myself to be an honest and upstanding person. Therefore, I expect the same from others. I learned my lesson!! When I bought tickets online for a Vegas show, I went to TICKETSNOW.com and bought tickets for Donnie and Marie at almost $200.00 each. That's what I get for not doing my homework first. I was so excited when I thought of this idea for Lee's birthday, I took the first ones available. When I arrived at the Flamingo that night I checked with ticket info to see why they sold such expensive tickets. They were surprised as well to see the high price. I evidently didn't get them through the Flamingo but through a ticket broker who allows people to sell tickets at any price they want. Lesson learned? Do your homework first!! I really was taken for a ride but it was my own fault.

Apartment Living?

2008-11-10T07:44:00.000-08:00

Finally, Dallin has moved into a place he can call home. He moved into an apartment building uptown. It was once called "Mahdeen". The name is written in the tile work in the entry. The apartment is 3 flights up on the 2nd floor. Caeden and Zach came to help their Uncle, along with Dad, and Papa. The box holds IKEA furniture. We left before they started putting them together. It was better for all concerned. We heard later that we were right.

Above is the entrance. Ryan, Dall and Andrew are trying to hoist this huge TV up 3 flights. They finally figured out that the dolly would help.
The apartment has these beautiful refinished hardwood floors. In the pic below we see a small area where you might fit a table (but don't go out and buy one). Notice also the pull down ironing board. In the kitchen are 2 cupboards with glass windows. I don't know if they are supposed to be for dishes, pantry items, or nic-nacs.

Andrew giving it a rest after all the hauling. Notice large pic against the wall. This used to hang over my stairs. We both have part ownership in it like 80/20. Mines the 80.

THE KITCHEN (need I say more?)

The bedroom holds his bed. They need to measure to see if there is enough room for a dresser. The bathroom has fairly new fixtures but the floor is in that small, white, hexagon tile. I hope Dall is happy here. It's a cute batchelor (sp) apartment. It has lots of windows. The whole place reminds me of my grandmother's home in South Salt Lake. Congrats Dall

Miss Mary

2008-11-10T07:22:00.000-08:00

Mary, it's finished. I made a different pattern from the one you saw. This is bigger and more

book friendly. The far pic shows the fabric on the inside. These prints and colors are beautiful.

I hope you like it. I have finished another one and hope to have a few more done for Christmas.

HALLOWEEN NIGHT

2008-11-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

Ohhhh! who do we have here? Snow White's evil step mother (Ruth) and the witch that she turned into. (Terri) We had an amazing Halloween Party for our Primary put on by the young women in our ward. Thank you

Halloween night has traditionally been at Andrew and Lori's home because they live in a small circle where they all know each other. It is easy for the kids to get around the circle to the homes in the area. I have just put some favorite pictures up to look through. This is "Twinkle" wearing the dress I made for her. She is a sweetheart and just full of "it".

Here is granddaughter #2, Lilly, in the same dress. I loved working on them.
Dallin made his appearance as the kid on HSM. The one with the hair that has to be shaken into place. He says he has won the best costume award at his school for the 2nd year in a row. Give him a big hand. We love you.
Evil Luke
Shy Cort as Iron Man.
I had to snap 10 pictures to get this one of Urban as a pirate. The costume was off in a flash
This is my little pumpkin, Zach.
Our other pirate, Caeden.

DEAR FRIENDS

2008-11-01T14:35:00.000-07:00

This was a fun week for me. I had lunch with Jan (on left) and Kay (right). After college I came home to Salt Lake to teach. I left many friends in Provo and coming home to Salt Lake was rather a let down because every one and any one that I was close to were either married or had moved out of state to new jobs. I was again on my own to try and establish a new life for myself. I moved home with my parents, and a brother, Richard. My sisters had married by the time I had come home.

Richard decided that I was OK enough to tag along with him to a singles group called Sacra Dulce Chorus. (I'd bet anything that Mom strongly encouraged him to do that.) Here I met Jan L. and Kay S. and many other young men and women who came together to sing and have fun. Before long Jan, Kay and I were doing a lot of hanging out together. We made many memories camping, singing, dancing and talking. That was from 1968-1972 when I was married. I wish I had a picture scanned in from that time. We were very pretty young women who enjoyed what life had to offer. Now as you can see we have aged 35 years and have become grandmothers and we still enjoy what life has to offer. These women were good friends. (We even learned to ski together--that was an experience it itself).

This is the pile of books by my bed that I have yet to read. I have to read the library books first.
These are the 3 quilts I finished and took to the quilter this week. YEAH!!

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS

2008-11-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

This is one of the last days of our beautiful Fall weather. The days are limited and we have enjoyed the weather immensely. A true gift from our Heavenly Father. This is also a family celebration of birthdays. I love having the family get together especially when I can still ignore the noise, arguments and the mess. The grandkids know each other really well and will always be good friends.
Way to go you little "punks". Keep up the good work.

Sandie had # 30 + birthday on Halloween. She has either had a great big party or never got to celebrate on the 31st. That must be harder than a Christmas birthday. Lee celebrated # 62--what can I say with all those white wrinkles that show?

COSTUMES

2008-10-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

These are the costumes I made for Lilly and Gabby. It's been 25 years since I have been able to make a dress for a little girl. They turned out darling. The patterns now are so much more creative. These dresses were made from different Halloween fabrics that I found. The little purple apron is my favorite. The flower I created is stitched on so that when it is washed it will fray a bit. This project was very satisfying to me.

QUILT SHOP HOP

2008-10-19T17:38:00.001-07:00

The 3 of us, Roxy, Laurelee and Laura. We headed out of town on Thursday to go to Payson. We hit the slow down (crawl) in Springville. One of them said let's take the Benjamin exit. We should get there sooner than this crawl will. We were in between huge semis and trailers going out for the hunt. After leaving the exit we headed into the little town of Salem. It was beautiful there. None of us had ever been there. We wound our way around the park and pond and eventually found ourselves in Payson and the first of 12 quilt shops we hit during the day. In the beginning we spent a lot of time browsing and later figured out that all we needed to do was get our card stamped. We had a wonderful time--1 driver and 2 back seat drivers but we got a lot done.

This is the tree in my back corner of the yard. This indicates how gorgeous our day was to hit those shops.

These are some of the quilts that we got kits for. It was a pleasure to spend money like it was flowing from the fountain. haha!

The Dick and Jane quilts really struck a cord in my sentimental side. I love this one.

This one will take forever. Roxanne got this one also. The center is all embroidery work which I don't mind at all. It looks like my winters work is all cut out for me. Well, not cut out yet but it will be.

On Friday we finished up with the stores up North to Roy. Kind of fun when you haven't explored these cities before.

Fall

2008-10-11T17:32:00.001-07:00

I love Fall. It is such a beautiful time of year. The air become so crisp and cold. The leaves have such a wonderful color to them that we can enjoy by just looking out into our yards or taking a drive up in to the mountains close by. It doesn't matter. We are so blessed just to experience this pleasure. At one time we would have been out in the fields finding pumpkins for the kids. Now they go with their own children to experience the joy and happiness that comes from such innocence. As you can see I have put out my fall decorations. This time of year I love to put them out because they will last for 2 months. I think I am an orange person because I never tire of that color.

This is my new read. It is called DEWEY. It is about a cat left in a library bin and adopted by the library. The fabric on the table are pieces I found on sale to work into costumes for Lilly and Gabby. I love the purple and the stripes.

Lee and I got up early to bring in the garden whimseys and pack away the patio furniture. This we only do when the time is absolutely necessary. I love the back yard. I love to sit and read or contemplate the world and how I can help fix things. I haven't come up with a solution yet but I'll keep thinking about it.

I am working on Sharing Time for tomorrow using the scripture that talks about "serving with all your might, mind and strength." I am taken back to the time when as a young girl I would go with Mom almost every week to help her clean Aunt Norie's home. She was so faithful to her sister and seeing that she had her house cleaned. I was happy when I had to do it only once every month when my kids were teens. Anyway, on one of these weekly cleanings, Mom stopped at a house on 5th East and we went inside to visit this woman that was bedridden due to a deteriorating back. I couldn't believe that my mother would do this. She didn't know this person and yet here she was at her door. After visiting with her, Mom had her history and knew what her needs were and proceeded from that moment on to make sure she was taken care of properly. Mom found things she could with her hands. She made many bed jackets for her because those were the only pieces of fun clothing she could wear. Mom continued to see this woman for the next several years. That is a lesson in service that she left her children. There were many other acts of service that she rendered. Many weren't known until after her death and friends started to share with us what she did for others.

I've messed my pics up again. Girls, will you help me?

Dad is in the process of finishing up the painting in the 2 rooms downstairs. Then the great cleaning will take place and much will be gotten rid of. (hopefully)When that is done I will move my sewing room downstairs and we will start on the bedroom up here. We will be turning it into a sitting, reading, tv room with a new light green sofa and a orange chair (see colors at bottom. We'll probably paint a light brown with white trim. I think it will look great.

So we have a winter full of things to do to keep us busy besides all my projects that I am working on. I love looking at blogs that have all these wonderful new fabrics. I have ordered these little girl patterns with frilly pants and cute tops. Can't wait.

SATURDAY

2008-10-04T19:07:00.001-07:00

After shopping for shoes we headed over to Deseret Book to spend my gift certificate. Chris Stewart had his 6th in his series out. I haven't been able to resist them. The series is called The Great and Terrible. Then I went upstairs and found this beautiful line of fabrics. It will make a great bag for someone special. She'll know it will belong to her when she reads this. We had a wonderful day--maybe because I spent so much money and got things that I wanted. Lee also picked up the new sofa for our soon to be sitting room. Who needs another bedroom?

Lee went golfing this morning and I was able to sleep until 9:00 am without him "bugging me". It felt so nice. I haven't been able to sleep in for a long time because my internal clock is set for 6:00 am. When he returned home he said, "Let's go to lunch at Five Guys and then over to DSW. Well, DSW did it. I love shoes. Shoes are made for big, little, narrow, wide and they fit me so I am able to buy as many as I want. These are my new Sunday shoes. Aren't they cute and so grown up but not your grandmother's shoe. Dallin can't make fun of them.

I also bought a pair of Clark slip-ons (like clogs) and a pair of slippers for my cold feet.

Gardner Village Witches

2008-10-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

Today the girls took the children to Gardner Village to look at the witches. We had a lot of fun. Great photo shoot for them. Then we ended up at Sandies for the evening for food and the bounce houses. Refer to Raising4boards link to view them.

BAGS AND BUSINESS

2008-10-02T14:14:00.001-07:00

These are my newest projects. They are quilted bags that can be used as a purse, scripture tote or for sewing. You name it, you can bag it. They are delightfully fun to make and I hope my girls like them because you never know what Christmas will bring.

This is Andrew's new business. So for anybody who needs an activity for a birthday party, Christmas, school PTA's etc. He's the MAN!! He has 5 inflatables and a dunking machine. He sets up and takes down. We are excited for him and hope it goes well. We had fun with this one in the front yard.

My "Twinkle" She's just one of the boys. Right in the mix of things.

SURPRISE!!!

2008-09-29T18:53:00.000-07:00

Another major birthday for Aunt Mary. My little sister has turned 60. Dang! She looks really good for her age. I wish I were up to having some of her young pictures here to compare. But just so you know, she has only gotten better.

Kristie, Andrea, Joe, Ben and Uncle Animal surprised her with a party with her grandchildren and a few friends and siblings. Jimmy Dean and Elvis were also in attendance. The little girls provided the entertainment with one of their favorite dances that they have been practicing for a long time.

This is Bubba (Ethan) dressed in his jeans and t-shirt with a pack of gum rolled up in the sleeve. Love the hair.
Mary and Joe
Ben, Andrea, Joe, Mary and Kris
Andrea, Mary , Joe

Olivia, Anna, and Sophia
Andrea and Mary

Mary and her granddaughters

Can't forget Alex in his leather.

Mary opened her silly gifts. Family joke about sharks. Someone found shark slippers.

Life magazine from the week she was born.
Laurie, Dave and Mary

Joe, Mary, Kris and Lil' Joe

We enjoyed the best hamburgers in town along with fries and root beer. Shakes to follow. We had a wonderful time going down memory lane. I gave Mary Aunt Norie's green cookie jar. The 3 of us remembered that there were never any good cookies in it because Aunt Norie didn't bake but we looked into that noisy jar every time we went over, just in case. Thanks kids for having us over to enjoy our memories. I had some cuter pictures that Andrea sent to me but was unable to figure out how to get them into iphoto.

SUE AND O.D.

2008-09-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

This couple deserve an award for being lifelong friends of ours. Sue and O.D. have weathered the last 35? years with us. I wish I could say that I had introduced them but I can't. Sue became a member of SDC (Sacre Dulce Choir) around 1969? She was our new pianist and at first was just a little shy but that wore off quickly. She was a home economics teacher at Olympus High School. She had her Masters and had traveled. I was quite impressed.

O.D. (Olan Dale) I met a few years earlier in 1967? at BYU. He lived in the King Henry Apartments where I was also. I found out that their apartment was in desperate need of a cook and when I say desperate, they hired me on the spot. Now there was an experience. I don't remember how many weeks I lasted but this group of characters were quite unique. I won't go into more. I brought all my favorite recipes out and cooked and shopped and cooked and shopped. After a few weeks, I knew this was not "my cup of tea". But the "boys" continued to be my friends. After graduation and a couple of years teaching I ran across O.D. again when he was introduced as a friend of Sue's. They were actually married before Lee and I.

The four of us became close friends. Sue and OD made sure that we attended the temple once a month for many years. We loved board and card games. OD thinks he can beat me at dominoes, Mormon Rummy, Ticket to Ride, and/or Settlers of Catan. I always give him a run for his money. Lee and Sue surprise us with a win once in a while. OD was always in the circle when our children were blessed. Sue could tell when she was needed. When I was having a rough week she asked to take Sandie, Jane and Andrew to the zoo. I was delighted and the children were prepared. Not having children of her own Sue thought she could handle the 3 of them at the zoo. We got the girls in the car but Andrew wouldn't have any of it. He screamed and threw a fit but at 3 years old and leaving his mother was not a good thing. I waved at them as they drove down the street. Andrew's face was smashed against the window in a scream. I took myself back inside to have a rest. Thank you Sue for those 3 hours of peace.

Through the years it was Sue who I went to for advise, a shoulder and lunch. My heart is full of gratitude for this wonderful couple who has been with us throughout our lives. We spent last Saturday Night with them at the OC Tanner concert. We love you both dearly.

Aren't they cute? You will often see them serving in the Salt Lake Temple.

Dinner and Dominoes

2008-09-14T16:56:00.000-07:00

Wayne and Sue Brent and Diane
Lee and Laura Dave and Terrie

The above couple have moved from our neighborhood but we have kept in contact with them. We do dinner and dominoes and talk. Mostly talk!!! We have a good time keeping up on children and grandchildren. We won't go into who cheats to win or who whines the most when they don't win or who is sooooo slow with his moves that sometimes he gets skipped and doesn't notice until it goes around again.

State Fair

2008-09-14T16:07:00.003-07:00

Lee and I headed off for the state fair grounds. It was a beautiful day, the kind of day that reaches out to your senses. We grabbed some money from our little "at home stash" to pay for anything we might want. We just wandered around to find the buildings that held our interests. Of course, the people and their attire were the most interesting.

We found the goats and sheep. These are beautiful animals but they sure are stupid.
My pics are out of order again. We found these delicious navajo tacos. But at nine bucks a piece we only got one which was more than enough. This is Mr. Mill enjoying all that gooshiness. (is that a word?)
He leaves a bigger mess than his kids ever did!!
This is one of the goats

These cows? were huge.
This is why you go to the fair. The horse was made out of horseshoes. The rider was supposed to be a robot playing the guitar. Pretty good too! He didn't smile, move or anything while we watched but he did have sunglasses on so he could blink. There was a camera in the barrel with a person looking out so he could talk to you.
This was a lion and tiger show that we were unable to see but before it started this tiger was just stretched out in the sun taking a snooze.

GOATS
GOATS
GOATS

We hit the 4-H building and the canned goods and the crafts and handiworks. And the scrapbook pages. There were a couple hundred pages on walls, easels, chalkboards.

What we didn't see were pigs, chickens or rabbits.

My favorite of course was the double dip ice cream cone. Its a good thing that Lee isn't into taking pictures because it would have been hideous watching me suck up those drips. I had to bend my head every which way trying to keep it from dropping. By the time I was done my shirt, pants, hands and face were covered. Anyone watching would just have seen this old woman trying her best at making faces.

Mother's Advice

2008-09-13T08:21:00.000-07:00

It's been too long since my last post but nothing important has taken place. Yesterday I wrote up my thoughts and feelings about 9-11 and then accidentally deleted the whole thing. I'll do it another time.

Today I am going to just put down some rambling ideas for my children and nieces if you are browsing.

1. Smiths had some spices they are getting rid of this week. They put them in baskets around the store.

2. My last batch of towels got left in the washer for 2 days and without thinking I dried them and put them away. PPPUUUU!!! the smell was awful. After using the first 2 I put the rest back in the washer with clorox. You would think that I had learned this lesson already.

3. We are going to the fair today. Lee and I are going through all the buildings and look at ALL the stuff without the little bodies telling us how boring it is.

4. I remember going to the fair with my parents and siblings. Our favorite thing in the whole world was picking up all the brochures we could find. We filled our arms with this paper and carried it throughout the fair. When we returned home Peggy, Mary and I would begin to play secretary (not school). I don't know how Mom and Dad put up with us doing that but I don't ever remember them getting after us for it.

5. Weather is spelled with only 1 h.

6. Laurelee came over yesterday to help me put some software on my computer. She spent 2 1/2 hours trying to get it to work. Finally, we took it back to the store only to learn that I had picked up the wrong program. Thanks Laurelee

7. She and I are planning to go to the art museum at the U. Our husbands aren't interested so we'll go by ourselves on trax.

8. Girls, let's go to lunch. I'll buy! Cousins, you are welcome to come and bring your little ones but it has to be on a Friday.

9. On her blog, Janice mentioned an clothing store called hannaanderson.com. Girls, they had really cute children's clothing. Just passing on the info.

10. Kids, don't forget that your Primary program is coming up. I want to be able to sit back and see each of my grandchildren doing their parts.

Swiss Days Conversation

2008-09-03T07:10:00.000-07:00

I had to save this conversation for our family history. This is an email conversation with instructions for the day.

Kris: Hi guys, I'm not sure I included everyone who is going to Swiss Days in my email. So if there is a member of your family that is coming, will you please contact them and let them know the plan.

We are going to meet at my house at 6:45. This way, people can leave their cars in my driveway(they'll be safer here than in the parking lot and nobody will get a ticket). So we'll adjust for carpooling when we get here and then hit Einstein's for a snack. My mom can take her Explorer, Sandie is bringing her Expedition and Jill has her Sequoia. If there are so few of us, we may be able to get four in each car and take only two cars. I know, I know, the stuff. I am counting only 7-8 people going. I think we might be able to get away with two cars.

We plan to shop and then hit Loco Lizard in Park City on the way home.

We will divide into two groups this year. There will be the "fast" group that will be directed by Lori. Then there will be the "slow" group that will be directed by Brittney (she's a very thorough browser).

Please come prepared to state which group you'd like to be in. We'll divide up accordingly. I will have nametags that say, "Fast Ones" and "Slow Ones". Either way, it sounds bad.

See you in the AM.

Tara, we'll miss you this year. Best wishes this weekend. Tell your mom that we're thinking of her, you, and the entire family.

Jen: Ohh, my gosh! I am r olling with laughter! I for sure want to be in the "fast group". However, if there is a spot I feel requires more attention I may break off and temporarily join the "slow group". Of course, I will be rejoining the "fast group" ASAP. I will see you at 5:45.

Mary: Jen you crack me up! I'm debating my group...fast? slow? Hmmmm...let you all know tomorrow. I just know for sure I don't want Lori mad at me!

Brittney: WHAT?!! Nobody consulted ME about being the designated leader of the SLOOOWW group! I am highly offended! Am I really that slow? I think once again Kris is assuming things! Fine! I guess since everyone else thinks it's below them to be in the slow group I'll just be in my OWN group! I'm not slow, I just have better taste than the rest of you and know when to stop for a good deal!! Magnet boards?! Please!! Give me a break! How much have THOSE changed in the last 5 years?! But guess who's gonna stop and stare this year, AGAIN!?

By the way, was Mary telling me to meet at Kris's at 6:30 not 6:45 because she thought I would be so slow I would be late and really arrive at 6:45? "Oh, just tell her 6:30, that way she'll be there at 6:45." Nice.

See you all tomorrow at 7:00 when you all decide to show up!!

Lori: You guys are safe this year. Unfortunately I can't take the time off of work and Andrew wanted to attend. So we are going up in the late afternoon. I am going with my three "small" children, slow husband, and crippled mother. I will be the only one of this group in the "fast group."

Have fun ladies and let me know of any good finds. I will probably cross paths with the "slow group" around 4ish!!

Mary: Lady Brittney, you are not only just killing me, I'm dead! I must have slipped when I said 6:30...NOT!

And I too am so over the magnet boards...those are so last year. First, you will be in the FAST group behind Jen who will be fastlly moving towards the Ghosts(the broomsticks of last year), then you might want to ove to the SLOW group, which may consist of you.

Group: No staring at magnet boards! Let's not embarrass ourserves! See you at 6:30! (others at 6:45)

Jane: Ladies..just wanted to say that I had a great time today and yes, I was in the slow group with Jen...It was so great to see all of you, it's been awhile for me. Anyway, I will see you at the cabin for scrapbooking, thanks Kris for setting it up for us, and Mary, thanks again for lunch!

Laurie: (aside) Mary must feel slower now that she is getting OLDER!!!!! YEAH!!! FINALLY!!

Kris: I think we need to set up a phone tree for Aunt Laurie next year to remind her about SWISS DAYS.

New Post

2008-09-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Girls (the cousins) and anybody else following along like Mary (the aunt) I have added a new box of blogs I follow. I found this one - the Executive Homemaker- that has a lot of good information. You need to register at no cost but I thought it would a good one for young mothers and some of us in-betweeners. Just explore!! She has some incredible tips that I thing are worthwhile. Enjoy your Labor Day. Dad and I are going to a movie after he goes golfing in the rain.

CHOICES

2008-08-29T16:39:00.000-07:00

Today the cousins and Aunt Mary took off up to Swiss Days. I know they had a good time what with Brittany leading the "slow" group and ? leading the "fast" group. They don't even take time for the magnet boards anymore and if you have a baby in a stroller, LOOK OUT!! They will give you that infamous "Jones Look" that even the in-laws seem to have perfected. No one belongs at Swiss Days with a stroller. Now dogs? That's another thing altogether.

I had planned on going with the kids but I had signed up for a service project that, unfortunately, fell on the same day as Swiss Days. Both were good choices but I knew where I belonged and it wasn't with my kids today.

Lee and I signed up to go the the Bishop's Storehouse in Sandy to spend half the day stocking shelves and help people check out their groceries. We learned the system and worked through the morning till after lunch. What an incredible experience it turned out to be. These people were for the most part like you and me. Most had fallen on hard times and needed the help to pull themselves out. We saw very little abuse. One mother had several teen age boys, probably a single parent. Another man and wife came through and mentioned to Lee as he helped him out that he is just getting back on his feet after a broken back. He was a fire fighter and the accident had put him to bed for the last 2 years. He was going to have to train for a different job when he was able. They were all shopping for a months worth of supplies so that was a little daunting. Only the basics were on the shelves. No pop, candy, etc.

One family, parents and four children came in to stock shelves. Members are asked to give back or work in the storehouse. These folks encouraged their children to be a part of this giving back which, hopefully, is teaching them.

This was a good choice that we made. It helped us to appreciate not only what we have been given but what we are able to give back. Part of our stewardships here on Earth is helping to take care of others. We also need to learn how not to judge others--we don't know their stories and they don't have to tell us or make excuses to us as to why they are in this position at this time in their lives. We just love them.

DEATH BY CHOCOLATE

2008-08-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

When I pass on I expect to be laid out in my whites with new socks and new shoes and all the fancy other stuff. I will try to have them on hand before I go. In my hands will be a small package of plain M & M's instead of a sweet white handkerchief. Goodness what would I do with one of those when a package of chocolate would do just as well. And all around the room where I will be viewed will be beautiful flowers and bowls of M & M's to munch on. Blue and yellow with a little green sprinkled in would be nice.

You now know how I feel about these chocolate sweets and how fixated I may be when I say I want my chocolate.

So when I left Walmart the other day with my groceries, I expected to be able to go home and put away these items and sit down with a handful of M & M's while I read a few pages. As I shuffled through the bags for the items to be refrigerated, I noticed that there were no M & M's in the cute little retro bag that I knew I had paid for. There was also no bread. I couldn't find the receipt, Sandie has called and reminded me that I am supposed to be up at the Hale Theatre at 12:30 to see BIG with the cousins, and I am late but decide to get in at the intermission. On my way I stopped at Walmart to make my complaint about missing a bag of groceries . How could this happen???? My chocolate was gone!!! I talked to the clerk, the service desk, the little guy monitoring the check stand who says I have to have a receipt. I said it was probably in the bag I didn't get. Oh, well! Chalk it up to a lost cause.

When I returned home after the play and looked for the pepper jack cheese to make Lee a sandwich, I couldn't find it, nor the feta, bananas or avocados. What had happened? Lee said that was too much money to be lost so he decided to go over to Walmart and talk to the manager. I made a list and said goodbye, because I wasn't going with him.

Thirty minutes later he returns home with a bag of groceries. He went to the assistant manager who was a tall, handsome, black man. (Somalia or Sudanese) He offered his hand and introduced himself and the manager responded in kind. (Lee is such a PR person) He explained how his irresponsible wife didn't see that all the bags from that ridiculous carousel got into her cart. The young man said "no, it is the responsibility of his cashier to make sure they are in the cart and out the door." He instructed a young man to go around with Lee to pick up the items on his list and see that he got out the door with them. Now that is the way a customer should be taken care of. Lee was just a-struttin' like a peacock when he got home. And I sat and enjoyed my M & M's that evening.

Oh, don't forget the bowls at the viewing.

EDUCATION WEEK OBSERVATIONS

2008-08-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

1. Little old white-haired women with hunched backs and walk with a cane can move faster than me and squeeze into their seats before I can get there.

2. Sandals are a must in this hot weather but are hard to keep on your feet when you have to move quickly.

3. Old friends you see won't stop to visit because they are in a hurry.

4. Lee got lost going from the Martin Building to the Wilkinson Center.

5. The shuttle from the Marriott Center was a life saver. When I did this 25 years ago, I wouldn't have dreamed of using it.

6. I love meeting new people who sit next to me. Some are friendly and some want to be left alone.

7. The campus has made incredible changes. My favorite place to relax was in the huge student lounge that was decorated in turquoise and orange. It had a listening area near the rear where you could listen to your favorite album. Mine was Glenn Yarbrough. It is gone now, replaced with offices. I was sorry not to see those colors again.

8. My next favorite place was sitting with my friends in a booth sipping our "root beers" and watching people go by.

9. I love it when a stranger walks by me and smiles and says good morning.

10. Have you visited the Hinckley Center yet?

11. You need to time your potty and lunch breaks just right to miss the crowds. Or find a potty that is out of the way and not found yet.

12. I tried to visit my old dorm--Lucy Mack Smith Hall, but it was locked up. Still looked the same.

13. The last thing I did at the end of classes was to get double scoop cone from the BYU Creamery. You haven't had a good ice cream cone until you have had one of those.

14. I love that campus. It is so like home to me.

KIMBALL REUNION

2008-08-16T20:42:00.000-07:00

Poppa taking care of Urban until we can get some ice cream.

Let's go Mom! I'm tired.

Kris and Mary wave goodbye to us as we take the train back to the strollers
Miss Lilly has the right idea. Notice her hand on her bottle. Just keeping it handy.

Jane feeding the goat in the petting zoo area.

Zach looking into the pen for the sheep.
My personal favorite was the rooster.
Everyone is soooo tired. Sandie with Cort then Caeden, Ethan and Izzy.
Luke showing Caeden his huge leaf.

Most of the children got to ride the horses. Zach was excited. He got to hold onto the stick thing. Next is a picture of Suzy and Eva, Jane and Urban, Kenna and Darren and then Luke.

Caeden checking out the animals.

The llama checking out Caeden.
Urban and Cort teasing each other.
My favorite were the peacocks. Look at their beautiful markings.
Look carefully and you will see a duckling.

My post is at the bottom. I still can't get the pictures to go in the right place.

Tara, Kris, Sandie, Jane, and Jodie taking pictures of the grand parents.

Richard, Mary and David
Somebody got her feelings hurt.
Izzy wasn't happy and neither was Mom.
Mary and Ethan looking at the animals.

When I was a little girl, I remember Mom and Aunt Joyce commenting on how important it was going to be to keep their families close to each other when Joyce lived in California and we lived in Salt Lake. Out of 4 girls in their own family only 2 had children and they wanted to make sure we knew each other. And we do. We have fond memories of going to California for vacations, Christmas and birthday gifts, etc. I wrote often to my cousin, Karen and have visited with all of them since our marriages. We do know each other even though we live in different states.

This has been what I have wanted for my own children. To know their cousins and they do. I made sure that everyone knew about the reunion today and several of them took the time to come and have fun.

The first thing to do was take pictures of the oldest members of the family. That was Richard, David, Mary and Laurie. We missed Peggy. What was funny was to see 5 cameras pointing at us, so Dave took a picture of all the cousins with these cameras in front their faces.

I remember a picture being taken of the reunion when it was held in the Kimball Ward. I remember having pictures of the children taken when they were very young shaking President Kimball's hand. Now it is the 5 of us who are having our picture taken together. Very thought provoking I must say. I told Jane that someday she'll have to wheel me around in a wheelchair like some of these folks here.

I have included several pictures of the children and grandchildren having fun at Heritage Park at This is the Place Monument.

QUALITY TIME AWARD

2008-08-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

The cousins were invited to spend the afternoon at the community pool with all their children. Lori wasn't going to go because it gets to be really hard t control 3 little ones at the pool. I offered my assistance. She finally said yes. I met her there and got them all out of the car and up to the pool where Kristie was waiting with pizza and her fabulous chocolate cake. Lori got them fed and dressed. The rest of the grandkids were in the pool just having a ball. Caeden and Zach were ready to go in after the arm balloons were adjusted. I did my grandmotherly duties and took Twinkle over to let her put her legs and feet in and splash around. But NO! this was not enough for this little spitfire. She wanted to go in all the way. So sweet Lori changed into her suit and took Twinkle out into the water for the next hour. She was in heaven. There was no way that she was going to just watch from the side. All I can say to Lori is "get her into swim lessons, fast".

Lori spent all her time with her children in the pool while her sister cousins watch. Finally they noticed and decide that she should get the Mommy QualityTime Award. You go GIRL! I enjoyed my visit with all these cousins. They have such a love and respect for each other. It's great to see them able to have a wonderful time together. Keep it going, girls, to you're to old to remember each other.

Conversation with Dallin

2008-08-07T08:04:00.001-07:00

Dallin: Mom would you make an appointment for me at the dentist. I need to use the money on my flex card.

Mom: No problem. I can do that right now.

Dallin: I just need a cleaning and new trays for whitening. And Mom, I'm 27 years old. Please don't make me sound like a 14 year old boy.

Mom: Of course I wouldn't do that. Every 27 year old son has their Mom make their appointments for them.

Dentist Office: Dr. Mike's, may I help you?

Mom: Yes, I would like to make an appointment for my 14 year old son who thinks he's 27.

MORNING

2008-08-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

I love mornings. The first thing I do after rolling out of bed is to open all the blinds, the drapes and the door, if possible. It is so incredibly wonderful to let the light in. I can't imagine being one of those people who keep their blinds closed all day to keep the sun out. To me, the sun is that burst of energy that gets and keeps me going. I love it.

Before my flowers all go to seed or start looking a little mangy I took some pictures of what to me is my own quiet retreat. I spend cool mornings and delightful afternoons out here just to read, ponder, meditate or just hold "Little" Butt if he'll let me.

Lee and I go out to eat but I would rather get take out and eat it here at home. Normally, it is quiet and we are able to relax and talk.

(Someone needs to inform me as to how to get my pictures where I want them to go.)

Bear Lake Observations

2008-07-28T08:04:00.000-07:00

We spent the long July 24th weekend at Bear Lake camping again. I know it was wonderful because the weather was perfect for camping. If it had been stormy like so many times in the past, I could not have enjoyed it so much.

You've all seen this picture. Uncle Aminal is in back row, middle

*Uncle Aminal (Animal, Joe)--Every family has to have an Uncle Aminal! He is the uncle who loves to mix with the little ones. With his large, thick, gentle? hands and loud, gruff, voice he will tickle, tease and torment to no end. The children love it and if someone hasn't been tormented enough they will come and stand next to Uncle Animal until he has his attention. Joe loves the lake and will spend countless weekends there with 2-3 of his grandchildren so they can learn to be at peace with nature. Uncle Animal is also breakfast. No body can do it better so we just don't try. You can also find Uncle playing Gin with any sucker he can find to play. There is so much more to Uncle Animal.

*Remember the two trees that boarder the view? You can witness up to 7 Joneses reading their favorite book, or newspaper or magazine. This is what you do if you are over 50.

*We loved watching Andrew and Wes spending quality time with their children. Andrew building sand castles and Wes on the Wave runner with Sophie and friends.

*Ethan (aka: Bubba) screaming and raising his hands in excitement while Caedan drove him around the area like he was on a roller coaster.

*Aunt Mary killing the battery in their Expedition while reading at night.

*Jodi getting the applause from the breakfast crowd after being observed going from her tent to the potty. Lovely!

*Raspberry shake runs whenever the Merlin's was open. This was always a guess.

*Scott and Kristens incredible fireworks. Like Joe doing breakfast, we could count on them for the fireworks.

*Taking an open-air shower run by solar. Pretty neat when it has been 3 days or more.

*Little Lauren and Whitney who had to be the cutest and friendliest little girls I've met.

*Mama's new Colelman lantern (with 8 D batteries) and her MAX chair that let you relax and read comfortably.

*Cold, crisp water from the artesian well that was drilled compared to the nasty well water we drank when we were kids.

*Watching Uncle Richard and a neighbor mow the grassy land between the lots and the beach. It was like watching a race from the movie Cars.

*Andrea taking care of many of the little ones. She loves them and I know their parents love her for it. She almost got Andrew's van stuck in the muck!

*Will, Nate and Sydney giving up their dinosaur collection to cousins Caeden and Zach. They were very generous.

*Alli preparing for her next marathon. She ran 16 miles.

*Eric preparing just because. He would ride his bike for miles every day taking his new dog with him.

*Suzy and Chris, Dave and Jill making a quick visit on Friday. Maybe next time it can be an all nighter.

*Laurie losing every time when playing Settlers of Catan.

*Lee watching Laurie lose every time.

* Tare and Darren herding those 3 little girls around. We have decided that they are just like Tara--all full of chatter and sassiness.

*Kris finally came up and decided she could like it now that the kids are getting older.

*Nothing funner than listening to KMER on the way home with Lee and Laurie singing their hearts out to the oldies like "Jeremiah was a Bullfrog", Twist and Shout", the Beatles and the Righteous Brothers.

*Picking up "Lil" Butt from his boarding pen.

*Happy 24th of July everyone. Did you all recall that Mom has been gone for 37 years now? Wouldn't she and Dad, Aunt Norie and Uncle Siegfried have loved to see us all together at play? I'll bet they did anyway.

2008-07-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

This idea came from Alyssa. Everyone needs to play...This is Fun!

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot anything you remember. It can be funny, weird, awkward, random, etc.

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory abut me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your bog and leave one about you.

CLEAN,CLEAN,CLEAN

2008-07-16T17:54:00.000-07:00

I finally fulfilled one of my greatest wishes. I got maid service. I finally have a clean house. I have had a great burden lifted off my shoulders and I don't feel guilty any more. Sorry, kids! I know the money should go for something more important like diapers, baby clothes, or a toy for the grandkids. I do enough of that so I am spending some more money to make Lee and me happy, happy, happy! It makes such a difference to be able to sit down to read, sew or crochet and not have housecleaning hanging over your head. Now if I could just get someone to iron for me.

Bear Lake Summer

2008-07-07T08:40:00.001-07:00

We finally made it back up to Bear Lake this year. Lee and I drove up to be with the children while their children played and swam. The weather was absolutely gorgeous. We set up the tent and proceeded to wait for the rest to come. We read, walked and napped. I have added pictures for you all to enjoy.

Lee passing the time.
Levi and Sandie putting up their tent.
Cort and Levi practicing with the baseball.
This is our favorite view of the lake.
The grandkids getting their fill of s'mores.
Gabby isn't the first child to eat off the ground.
Gabby found a toy she could enjoy.
Luke and his dad playing catch.
Cort decided it would be cool to play without his shirt.
Our Jill getting lunch ready for Sophia.
Caeden, Luke and Izzy with a friend in the back.
"Grandma do you want a cooked marshmallow with your s'more?"
Everyone is getting ready to sing "Kum by ya".
Aunt Mary with Gabby.
This is what we do when not swimming. Lori, Caeden, and Izzy.
This is one of our favorite people, the Other Jill, friend to Our David. We love you, Jill.

Mary, Laurie and Dave. 3 of 5 siblings
Uncle David's birthday. (67) He sure doesn't look it.
Uncle David and Wes.
Wes trying to light those dang sparkles for candles.

PARTY TIME!!!

2008-06-29T07:48:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of our retirement party. We had a good time and I was so proud of my grandchildren. They behaved very well. I had several compliments about how well they did and it was a long time.

This is Aunt Jane with Gabby.
Cort acting out. He was very tired.
My retirement gift was a generous gift card for something of my choice.
Uncle Dallin actually holding Miss Lilly.
My retiring principal and cousin, John Shoell and his lovely wife.
Lori with her little "Twinkle".
Andrew, Sandie, Levi and Miss Lilly
Caeden and Luke entertaining themselves with snake books.
Cort looking at Tarantulas.
Urban bugging Cort.
Bill and Jaque Garber ( I know I spelled her name wrong.)
Lee and Miss Lilly (She sure gets around)
Sherry C., Cathy N., Lynea H., John and Laura We are receiving the infamous school bell.
Jamma holding Urban and Miss Lilly

Heather, Kathy C., Lynea H. and Laura
Lovely picture of Cathy and Lynea.
My teammates Stacy and Cathy. We have been together a lot of years.
Jane and Jill
Dave and Jill, Mary and Joe were also here. I really appreciated my family and friends for their support and love. Thanks to you all.

What's in a Name?

2008-06-25T13:10:00.000-07:00

I took care of Miss Lilly on Saturday. She is so sweet and mellow, like Jane and Andrew when they were newborns. I was "contemplating" the names that have been given to family members and thought it would be fun to determine where they came from on the Jones side of the family.

David was probably named after Dad's father who was married to Josephine. I'm rather grateful that I wasn't next on the list for that one. Richard, I have no idea where that came from. Sorry, Richard. Laurie,me, was named after a close friend of Mom and Dad's from Phoenix. Mary Lynn was most fortunate. If she had been a boy she would have been lucky enough to have the name of Melvin. This has been a family joke for years. Peggy, aka. Margaret probably came from an ancestor by the name of Margaret Fisher. Only her husband calls her Margaret, lovingly. The rest of us call her Peggy. I'm sure that at some time in some of our lives, like me, have disliked the name that we were blessed with but with age we quite like them.

Many of our children have the middle name of Elaine, but no one has been given Dad's name, Raymond. I love my Dad very much but his name isn't easy for a child.

My daughter Sandie was named for my dearest friend from college. We called this friend Mama Sandie to distinguish between the two during those early years.

Jane was a favorite name of mine that I have loved for years. Janie Hillier was a little girl I tended when I was a teen.

Andrew was an ancestral name that both Lee and I liked.

Dallin was given this name because although it was not used much, it was a strong and a determined name. Dallin H. Oaks is where we heard the name.

So each of these names was given because of a person we admired and respected but the names that my children chose for their children (except for Lilly) are names that they liked. There is nothing wrong with the names that were given. I just find it interesting as to how we came up with our names. Certainly a "deep subject" to be discussed. j/k

5 Tag

2008-06-16T20:47:00.000-07:00

Sandie tagged me again. It was a fun one so thought that I would add it to my blog. I can't tag anyone because my friends and sisters aren't attempting to do this yet. Jill H. I think you should get started on one.

5 favorite Snacks

Baskin Robbins ice cream

M & M's

Poppycock

apples

McDonald's hot fudge sundae

5 things on my to do list

computer classes

take new pics of grandkids

walk with Button early each morning

tell Lee I love him every day

get my eyebrows done

5 places I've lived

Phoenix, AZ

South Salt Lake

Holladay

Sugarhouse

Sandy

5 jobs I've had

cleaning for neighborhood ladies

counter waitress at Cottonwood Mall

make drapes for LaBai Drapery

secretary

teacher

5 bad habits

biting my nails

not returning phone calls

not writing to our soldier

not cleaning like I should

giving the look

5 books to read

To Kill a Mockingbird

Narnia series

Book of Mormon by December for Primary

The Infinite Atonement

Jane Eyre--again

Sandie I changed this a little to make it work for me. Once again, Jill H., I know you can do this.

Real Retirement

2008-06-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

This is 30 years of stuff. Now I need to go through it again to see if I really need to keep any of it.

Everyone asks, "What are you going to do when you retire?" I came to hate that question! I would answer, "Oh, I'm going to sew on my new sewing machine or I am going to finish my quilts that I have started, or clean my house, or stockpile books from the library and just saturate myself in reading.

All my life I have had automatic goals. When I was a child my mother sent me off to school. When I was a teen I had to finish high school. When that was done this 18 year old had no choice but to go off to college and even then my only choices at that time were education or nursing. Nursing didn't work because I didn't have the stamina to understand chemistry. So with a science minor I headed into the field of education. I did well at BYU and had a good student teaching experience. I was a teacher now and ever after. So with a contract in hand I had to get up every morning and again go back to school. When I married my goal was to raise a righteous family and when the children were on their way it was back to school for the rest of the 30 years.

What I am trying to say is that there has always been a reason or a goal for me to essentially perform my duties. I couldn't be a slacker. But now I have been cut off from all of that and now I am on my own. It is up to me and the Lord to figure out what I am going to do with my time. I have to decide how to spend my days. Its not like I don't want to make these choices its just that in a way they have always been made for me. And that makes it difficult because I don't want to just read. I don't watch TV, fortunately.

My goal now is to sit down and decide what it is that I really want to accomplish in my marriage, in my home and for me. Maybe my list should begin with me. For the last year I have gone every 3 weeks to have my eyebrows done but I missed my last appointment and now that I don't have a reason to get them done, I haven't made a new appointment. This is a silly thing but I can see now that these kinds of things are important and I need to do them for myself.

Today I made time to take a computer class up at Gateway to learn more about my new computer. There are some good things down the line having to do with family history and I want to be a part of that.

I have sounded off and have made myself feel a little better about moving on. I'll be OK but I've got to put a lot of thought into this new process.