Life in the Shoehouse

TOFW

2011-10-23T22:01:00.000-07:00

A few years ago in Las Vegas I discovered a program called Time Out For Women. It's based on the principle that when our kids need a break and a chance to regroup we put them on "time out", but do we ever give ourselves a "time out" to regroup. It is a weekend away from your usual routine and an opportunity to laugh, cry, be uplifted and encouraged. Since then I have tried to attend whenever the program comes to the city I am living in or near. This year the closest event was in Reno. When I received the flyer I dismissed it at first because I would have to travel and pay hotel fees as well as registration fees but after a few months of the ups and downs of life (and I admit over those months it seemed like the downs outnumbered the ups) I started thinking seriously about going. Thankfully I have a wonderful considerate husband who recognized my need for a "time out". I think he was more than ready to put me on time out if I didn't go on my own! So on October 14th & 15th Katie, Andrea and I headed for Reno to take our "time out". The theme of this years event was Choose to Become. We had a wonderful weekend with inspired talks on learning to believe in ourselves, getting out of our own way, trusting Heavenly Father. There was great music, lots of laughter and a few tears. We learned a lot about ourselves and what we want and need to do to Become the women Heavenly Father would have us be. They challenged us to choose one thing we can do to Become closer to who it is we want to be and not to leave what we had learned in the convention center parking lot. On our way home Katie, Andrea, and I talked about what we personally took away from the program and what we want to accomplish in our lives. We set some daily goals that will help us reach our larger goals and agreed to return and report to each other on how we are doing. I am so grateful to have attended this event right after General Conference. Having the two weekends so close together helped to increase the power of the messages to me that Heavenly Father knows and loves me. I am thankful for Katie and Andrea's company that weekend, for the support they gave me to follow through on what I want to accomplish. While my kids are now old enough that they no longer need to be put on time out I hope I never miss an opportunity to put myself at Time Out.

Fun with the Great Pumpkin

2011-10-23T21:34:00.000-07:00

Greg and Carinna came up for a visit in mid-October so we decided to go have some fun. Dixon CA has one of the worldest largest corn mazes. Since it's only an hour from us we decided to give it a try. Upon entering the maze Ty informed us that he would be our GPS for the trip through the maze.

Greg, Carinna, our GPS system (other wise known as Tyler) and I somewhere in the first half of the maze.

GPS guiding Greg

We caught up with Brian and hit the half way point where a nice employee offered to take our picture on the center bridge

Having navigated the maze successfully in 45 minutes our GPS needed a break. What better place to relax than in a giant corn bath?

Jaxon was a little less enthusiastic about the corn bath than GPS

The corn maze is in the same location as Cool Patch Pumpkins so of course we had to explore the pumpkin patch. GPS took mommy for a tour on the pedal car in search of the Great Pumpkin.

Not finding the Great Pumpkin with mommy GPS heads out again with daddy, Jaxon and uncle Greg

Unable to find the great pumpkin GPS trys again with Riley and Kevin. Will the third time be the charm?

Success at last! Riley finds her "great pumpkin"

While GPS was busy taking eveyone out looking for the great pumpkin Joe and Katie were busy collecting pumpkins to carve. Two full wagons later our bank account said that's enough!

After a long day of navigating corn mazes and searching for pumpkins Joe and I took a break with what appears to be the Sunkist Orange mascot (although I think it was supposed to be a pumpkin) before heading home. Lots of fun memories!

Craigslist strikes again!

2011-10-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

While I was in Arroyo Grande with Greg, Joe found an ad on Craigslist for free sod. All you had to do was rent a sod cutter and go remove it from the yard it was in and put it in your yard. Sounds easy right? NOT! I missed all the fun as Joe, Riley, Kevin, Kaitlin, our friend Virol, our neighbors son Tyler, and Brian worked all day Monday cutting it, rolling it, transporting it, and laying it. It actually took Tuesday and part of Wednesday to get it all in place but we LOVE our new yard. Thanks, Craigslist!

Before and After

2011-10-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

Riley decided to cut her hair. Here are the before and after shots.

Playing catch up yet again

2011-09-14T17:07:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy few months. In April our 6th grandson was born - Jaxon Walker Butler son of Brian and Katie and little brother to Tyler. We love having two little guys in the house. On the 20th Joe and I celebrated our 32nd anniversary by attending the temple and going out to dinner.

At the beginning of May we headed down to Disneyland to spend a few days with Andrea, Todd and their boys. We had a blast with them. We took Ty with us so he could spend some time with Avery and Kaeden. They had such fun playing and riding rides together. Of course Papa spoiled all of them and we came home with a stash of pirate gear. At the end of May Kaitlin graduated from seminary. Nine down one to go. By the time Kevin graduates from seminary in 2013 we will have had a child in seminary for 19 year straight.

In June Joe had surgery on his left knee to fix a torn minicus. Then we headed to Las Vegas to help Andrea and Todd move into a new home. That was lots of fun! We got to babysit the boys and I got to decide where everything went in the kitchen as Andrea had to work.

July brought one of our greatest blessings as Amanda was sealed to Brian Carson in the San Diego Temple. We had the entire family together so of course we took new family pictures (when I say "we" I really mean Katie took new pictures for us) which is no easy feat since there are now 24 of us total. Todd pointed out that in 10 years our family has literally doubled in size. Kevin turned 16 and Kaitlin turned 18 while we were in San Diego. They are growing up too ffast! Shortly after coming home from San Diego Joe had a second surgery on his right knee as it had not healed well from the first one in October of last year. I was asked to do an interview for an online website called The Mormon Women Project. It was way outside of my comfort zone but with Joe's encouragement I did the interview and it is now posted at www.mormonwomen.com.

At the beginning of August I went to Arroyo Grande to be with Greg and Carinna as Greg was having a cervical fusion to repair a ruptured disc in his neck. A year ago I was in Denver with Amanda while she had her lower back fused. I hope there are no more August fusions in my future! I returned home in time for Joe to return to work in mid- August. After two days back he bent over to pick up his shoes and pinched a nerve in his back which led toanother 3 weeks off work. Talk about a long vacation! He was off work the entire summer (maybe he should have been a teacher!) Kaitlin started college at the end of August and Riley came home from college for a few months.

September brought the beginning of Kevin's junior year of high school and my birthday. Joe took me to lunch and then we went to the temple. When we arrived home I had a houseful of unexpected guests as Katie, Brian, Joe, Riley, Kaitlin, Kevin and Tyler had planned a surprise party for me. It was so much fun!

Brian, Katie, Tyler, and Jaxon left for Alaska. They will be gone for 10 days spending time with Katie's family and touring Denali National Park. We can't wait to see all of Katie's fabulous pictures when they return! Joe was finally cleared to go back to work today leaving the house very quiet and giving me the chance to catch up on my blog!

More uses for duct tape

2011-03-31T14:36:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday I had surgery to fix two pinched nerves and a problem with the tendon in my right arm. Everything went well and I am recovering nicely. I cannot straighten my arm yet so everyday Joe or Brian help me to stretch it out and try to straighten it a little more. Since I cannot hold it straight for any length of time Brian has offered to duct tape it down to my leg for me. Thanks Bri!

All in a days work

2011-03-21T11:52:00.001-07:00

Joe built a lookout tower in the tree for the kids to play in awhile ago but Tyler wanted a fort, so Brian decided to build one in the backyard which would attach to the lookout tower. The result? A castle of course!

Brian, Ty & Kevin hard at work. Although she doesn't appear in the pictures Kaitlin was hard at work on the other side of the building.

Ty trying to hide inside

The ladder to the second story

Ty wanted trees outside the door and flower boxes on the windows. Katie and I will make him a flag to fly on top but we have not been able to convince them that it needs flower curtains on the windows. Papa and daddy are trying to figure out how to make the drawbridge go up and down without electricity. So far they have not found a way to make it feasible for a 3 year old to manage by himself.

More Craigslist Finds

2011-03-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of the free items that Joe has found for us on Craigslist.

8 person hot tub. We had to completely reside it but it was worth it.

Redwood gazebo. Brian & Joe had to completely disassemble this at the previous owners home and then reassemble it in our backyard. Lots of fun but since it was free they were okay with it.

Joe brought home this concrete culvert from work and turned it into a firepit. Slowly but surely we are getting the yard done. Now if only someone would give away some sod!

About time

2011-03-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

After four years and three months of dating Brian Carson finally proposed to Amanda. We are thrilled! They will be sealed in the San Diego Temple this summer. The year is off to such a great start! New furniture, new paint, new carpet, a new son-in-law, a new grandbaby, I mean really - what more could anyone ask?

More paint

2011-03-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

One of the changes in the living room was new carpet. The carpet that came with the house was poor quality and was pretty worn even though we've only been here for 4 years. Along with the living room we decided to replace the carpet on the stairs, in the loft and upstairs hallways. Brian & Katie also replaced the carpet in their bedroom & Tylers room. We've been wanting to repaint the upstairs for several years now but had been putting it off. There's nothing like replacing the carpet to motivate the painting. So we once again began the discussions of what color to use. Fortunately for us Brian & Katie had bought more paint than they needed for their room & Tylers room so we used the left over paint and redid the entire loft and upstairs halls. The carpet arrived at the end of February and was installed right away. It was quite an adventure having the guys here all day installing carpet and Tyler thinking that he was one of them and should be allowed to help. One of the installers had his nose pierced and Tyler asked him why he had a staple through his nose. The guy replyed that "It seemed like a good idea at the time" to which Tyler responded that he should be more careful with the staple gun and that he (Tyler) could use a staple gun without getting a staple in his nose. We all had a good laugh. Thankfully the guy was a good sport and did not get upset. The walls are much lighter than they were before and I love the contrast between the light walls and the dark carpet. It is so nice to walk on soft floors! It is amazing to me how much difference there is now between the old and new carpet. With all the changes and rearranging of things we have teased Katie about spreading her "nesting" to the rest of us. She is only 4 weeks from delivery and while I really love the changes in the house I do hope we are done for awhile.

My how time flies!!

2011-03-20T19:37:00.000-07:00

Ok so I knew I had not posted for awhile but over 3 months - that was a shock to see! As always life is never dull in the Shoehouse. Christmas came and went with lots of joy and love, was that really 3 months ago? January brought many changes in our home. First off I have to say that Joe has an addiction to Craigslist that I just cannot understand. I guess it's the thrill of finding a bargain - or better yet a freebie. Despite my forbidding this behavior (like I can forbid him anything!) he continues to search the list daily. I did ask if he was going to search the list would he at least look for things we really need instead of just finding things for fun. We ended up getting a new set of sofa's for our living room which was really nice. We moved the old living room set to the family room - much to Tyler's dismay - and I finally got rid of my mismatched couches in the family room. The first morning Tyler came down and saw the living room furniture in the family room he cried "I want the old ones back! I can't play on these." The fun began when we realized the new sofa's did not match the wall color or the drapes in the living room which set off a chain reaction of events resulting in an entirely new room. Katie knew that one of the ladies at church was getting a degree in interior design & suggested we call her. We bartered her design services for Katie's photograhs of the finished product for her portfolio. So after Amie's first visit we spent several days - or maybe it was weeks - trying to agree on a new wall color. After having sample cards taped to the wall for several days we narrowed it down to four and bought sample sizes of each one. After painting them on the wall we scrapped them all and started over. I lost count of how many colors we actually looked at but we finally found one that we could agree on and the work began. Removing all the furniture, cleaning walls, taping baseboards & crown moulding, windows, etc. While we were busy painting Amie was busy trying to find accessories and drapes to match the new furniture. It was a great agreement. I destest shopping and Amie loves it. So she did all the shopping and brought everything over. All I had to do was choose what I liked and she returned the rest. With her help and gudiance we have a room that we absolutely love and thanks to Katie, Amie will have another set of photo's for her portfolio. Here's the finished product photographed by Joe on our little camera since Katie's are not done yet.

FHE Fun

2010-12-14T12:24:00.001-08:00

The City of Folsom opens a temporary ice rink during the holidays so we decided to go have some fun for family home evening.

Tyler all ready to get started

Gran & daddy helping out

On my own! They had these tubs that little kids could use to balance themselves while they learned to move on their skates. Tyler had a lot of fun with them.

Daddy helping Ty do some smooth moves

Kelly & Kaitlin helping me stay upright

Kevin, Kelly, me & Kaitlin

We had a lot of fun despite a few falls. My elbow is nice and black where I landed on it. Brian & Chad say Kevin fell first and pulled me down with him which sounds good to me. Kevin fell several times as he is fearless in his efforts to show off his skills. Joe's back was out so he was sidelined with Amanda who is still recovering from her surgery and Katie who is 5 months pregnant. They made a great cheering section for the rest of us.

Long drive but so worth it!

2010-12-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

A week after arriving home from Denver we packed up the car and headed out on the road. We went to Salt Lake first to spend some time with my family. My parents anniversary was on November 1st. It was their 55th wedding anniversary and the 35th anniversary of our family sealing in the Salt Lake Temple. My dad asked if we could all meet in Salt Lake and go to the temple together as an anniversary gift to my mom. What a wonderful day!!! Four of my six siblings were able to make it. We had a really wonderful time being in the temple together and then got to catch up a bit with each other over lunch before we headed south to Las Vegas. Once in Vegas we got to meet our newest grandson Deklan. Carinna and Kelly could not make it but Brian, Katie, Tyler, Amanda, Andrea, Todd, Avery, Kaeden, Deklan, Greg, Brittney, Derek, Alex, Nick, Logan, Riley, Kaitlin and Kevin were all there. It was great! We were able to participate in Deklan's blessing and then go to the Las Vegas temple to do sealings. It really was an amazing week as I was in the temple on Wednesday with my parents and siblings and then in the temple Saturday with my kids. Truly a blessing and a chance to really feel the sealing power in a personal way.

Almost all my boys

2010-12-01T14:31:00.001-08:00

At the beginning of November we went to Las Vegas for Deklan's blessing and a mini family reunion. Here are some of my favorite family members. The title says "almost" because Brian & Katie's new little boy won't be here til April, & I consider Brian,Greg,Todd,Derek & Nick my boys as well but they are not pictured.

Avery, Deklan, Kaeden, Logan, Tyler

Avery, Deklan, Kaeden, Logan, Tyler

Avery & Tyler

Avery, Tyler, & Kaeden

Ty is used to having his picture taken but Avery isn't and wasn't being too cooperative so Ty was "helping" him to get back in place.

The final outcome. Tyler, Avery & Kaeden

Make it 6!

2010-12-01T14:25:00.001-08:00

Brian and Katie have announced that they are expecting a BOY! In April we will have grandson number 6! I am very excited.

Deklan James Garyson

2010-10-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Grandson #5!

2010-10-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

Deklan James Garyson grandson number 5 arrived at 7:59 am on Wednesday October 27, 2010, weighing 7lbs 5oz 20 inches long. Mom and baby are doing geat. Big brothers Avery and Kaeden are very excited that baby "duckling" is finally out of mommies belly.

Sunday Joy

2010-10-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

We have been attending church in Amanda's ward which is a young single adult ward. Yesterday was my last chance to be there. Two young men gave talks. One of them is an avid snowboarder and related his talk to snowboarding. He talked about the need to master the fundamentals of snowboarding prior to trying anything advanced. The four basic fundamentals for snowboarding are:

1. Maintaining balance and control
2. Pivoting and changing direction
3. Maintaining pressure
4. Following through

He then related each of these fundamentals to life and to the gospel. He talked about the importance of finding balance in our lives. He talked about knowing when we need to change direction to get to where we want to be, about peer pressure and being careful that we don't allow others to pressure us to lower our standards or give up our goals, and about following through on our plans and goals. As we master the fundamentals everything else will come. It was a really great talk. The next young man talked about being raised in the church but never really taking it seriously and eventually quitting all together. He spoke about his journey back and the difficulty of the return path. He said that he realized one day that attending church was a privilege not a burden, and how that realization changed everything in his life. What a powerful message! I loved this meeting and these talks. I am grateful to have been here long enough to hear them.

Lessons from Colorado

2010-10-10T15:07:00.000-07:00

You know how you have some experiences over and over until you learn what you are supposed to learn from them? As we prepare to travel at the end of the month I wonder if I have learned all I needed to learn here in Colorado. I am starting into week seven and I find myself looking over the last six weeks and on to the next two wondering if I have taken advantage of all that was available during this time. The solitude of the first week while she was in the hospital and sleeping most of the day. The escape from the alarm clock that rules my daily life. The lack of a schedule or any structure to the day. Losing track of what day it was. These are not the normal descriptions of my life. The first month was a quiet one as Amanda worked on regaining strength and balance. We read scriptures together, watched way too much TV together, ate together, walked together, went to appointments together, worked on crafts together, and did lots of talking and sharing together. I am grateful for the closeness of our relationship. We have been together almost 24 hours a day since August 29th and have gotten along amazingly well. What will it feel like to let other people into our space? Life here has been very insulated with few visitors and few intrusions from the outside world. A sanctuary from the stresses of my usual routine. What will it feel like to leave this sanctuary and be back around lots of people? What will it feel like to send her back here without me a few weeks later? Perhaps Kevin being here is a prepatory step back into the real world that awaits me in California. Can I hang onto the internal peace that has been with me in the quiet of Colorado?

Garden of the Gods

2010-09-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

We had a visit from Teresa and Mike this week which was wonderful. Teresa & I don't get to see each other near enough so to have them here for three days was great. On Thursday Amanda was doing well so we decided to take a trip down to Garden of the Gods which is a State Historic Site in Colorado Springs. It consists of natural rock formations that are absolutely stunning as well as plants and animals. It was donated to the City of Colorado Springs with the stipulation that it remain free and open to the public forever. We called ahead to make sure they had a wheelchair for Amanda and off we went. Even though they only have one handicap accessible trail it was enough. What a beautiful place!

Lfie in Denver

2010-09-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

I have been in Denver with Amanda for just over a week now. She is one week post surgery and doing well. She is making good progress and keeping a positive attitude. Greg asked me what we do here all day since she is unable to move around much or travel even a short distance. I have become a handywoman hanging pictures and changing shower heads. A physical therapist helping her get up, down and walk the hall several times a day. An arts and crafts helper as she finds projects to work on that will keep her busy but don't wear her out. A personal assistant running errands, fixing meals, doing laundry and all the other things that it takes to run her home while she is down. Yesterday she was able to dress herself including putting on her own socks and shoes. This may seem like a small thing to the rest of us but one week post back surgery it was huge! I am enjoying spending this time with her. She has a great outlook about all of this and finds something to laugh about everyday. I am thankful for all of those back at home who are taking care of home, family, and seminary while I am gone. My life is truly blessed!

Logan Nicholas Balmforth

2010-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

Born August 15, 2010 6lbs 13oz 19-3/4 in. Logan was about a week and a half old when these pictures were taken.

Snuggling with Papa

Proud daddy

I love the contrast between Nick's hand and Logan's.

It shows just how tiny he is. How much safer could he feel

than all wrapped up in daddy's arms?

Mom, Dad & Logan on blessing day

We had to find an extra small blessing outfit and it

was still huge. Kaitlin, Riley and Kevin made this blanket for him.

We are grateful to have another grandson arrive safely and ever so grateful that we could be there for his blessing.

Soccer Ty

2010-09-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

Tyler starts soccer this month so mom & dad got him all outfitted and we headed off to the park for some pre-season practice.

2010-08-18T16:47:00.000-07:00

I have not been very consistent with this blog and I didn't think anyone really read it anyway but talking to my mom the other day she said she checks it all the time to see what's up so I promised her that I would do better at updating it. So here you go mom:

Logan Nicholas Balmforth made his debut on Sunday at 1:44am weighing 6lbs 13oz & 20" long. Alex is doing well. Logan has had a few struggles as he arrived 3 weeks early but he was able to go home on Friday and so far all is well. We are heading up to meet him next week.

Week two of seminary just ended and I almost have all of the kids names down. I still mix up a couple of the guys who look alike to me and there are a few kids who I just cannot remember yet but considering we have 120 students I think I'm doing pretty well. However I will be gone for the next few weeks visiting Alex, Nick & Logan in Idaho for a few days and then it's off to Denver to stay with Amanda while she recovers from back surgery so I will probably have to start over when I get back.

Joe tore his left miniscus a few months ago and thought it had healed. He went on a 50 mile backpacking trip with Kevin's scout troop and while trying to be careful of his left knee he managed to tear both the medial and the lateral miniscus in his right knee. He is probably going to need have surgery to repair both knees. He meets with the orthopedic dr on the 30th and we will see if he can wait until I return from Colorado to have it fixed or if Brian & Katie are going to get to play nursemaid for him.

I am still having problems with my right arm. It turns out that constant stress is not good for you! I carry stress in my neck so my muscles are tight which is now affecting the tendons and nerves in my right shoulder, elbow and fingers. Wednesday at physical therapy they were working on my shoulder. He told me to relax my arm and I replied "It is relaxed." He assured me that it was not relaxed and that I needed to do "spaghetti arms" like they do on the Wiggles show. I have never seen the Wiggles but it appears that I have forgotten what it feels like to be relaxed.

Tyler asked me the other day if he could have a cow. A few years ago that would have meant he was asking if he could have a temper tantrum but he was really asking if he could have a live cow to keep in the backyard. He also said that he would build a small pen for it to potty in so that it wouldn't get all over the yard. Isn't he thoughtful?

So long to summer and sleeping in

2010-08-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

What ever happened to summer including June, July AND August? School starts on Monday for the kids in our school district, which means seminary starts as well. While I'm excited to see the kids and be back in the swing of things I am not looking forward to the alarm going off at 4:30 - yes 4:30am. We have five seminary classess at our building. Two of them meet at 6am and three meet at 7am. Being the seminary principle means that I can choose when I am there and what time I arrive. In the past I have gotten to the building about 6:40, in time to say good-bye to the early kids and hello to the later ones, but for the last several days I have felt impressed that I need to start being there in time for the 6am classes. This was not good news as I am NOT a morning person, however I have found that if I am faithful and follow the promptings I receive, good things happen. So every monring I'll be heading to the building about 5:40am which seems so insane to me. I don't think anyone should be up and out that early in the morning - it's not normal!

Summer fun

2010-07-04T19:19:00.001-07:00

It's July 4th already! Where is the year going?

At the beginning of June we went to Utah for a wedding and stopped by Wyoming on our way home to visit my family. Yes I know that Wyoming isn't on the way to California when you are in Utah but Las Vegas wasn't on the way to Idaho when we went that direction a couple of years ago either. Sometimes you just have to throw away the map and follow your heart to where your family is so you can see them. We were only able to stay for one day but it was so worth it! I got to spend time with my parents, be with all three of my sisters and one of my brothers as well as some of their families all at the same time! Can't remember the last time that happened. Short but sweet! I hope it's not another 3-4 years before it happens again.

Kaitlin went to girls camp a couple of weeks ago. It was her last year and now after 17 straight years I am done sending girls to camp. Hard to believe that 17 years ago Amanda went to camp for the first time and now 7 girls later we are done. Another chapter of life finished.

Happy Birthday! Kevin, Kaitlin and mom. They all have birthdays coming up this week. Kevin will be 15 on Tuesday, I won't tell on my mom but her birthday is Wednesday, and Kaitlin will be 17 on Thursday. This is the second time my youngest has been 15. The last time around we were blessed with six more kids shortly after Greg's 15th birthday. This time around I know Heavenly Father will continue to increase our family's size through grandchildren.

Kevin has decided to compete in a triathalon in two weeks. He will run 5.82 miles, bike 12 miles and kayak another 6 miles. He met with a trainer to get a workout program that will help him be more prepared but time is short so he will have to work hard. I have been working out with him to keep him focused. I think he is somewhat surprised that I can keep up with him and while he is often sore the next day I have not been sore at all. Hmmm wonder what that means? Could it be that I am in better shape than my 15 year old son?

Kevin and Joe will be leaving on a 50 mile backpacking trip the last week of July. They are going with Kevin's scout group. Hopefully they will both make it back safe. I love backpacking but 50 miles of it is nuts!

Kaitlin and Kevin will be attending EFY the first week of August. They are both excited about attending. At first they were not thrilled to go to the one in Sacramento because it wasn't far enough away for them but now they are getting more excited about it as some of their friends have been to other sessions and have shared how great it is. What on earth will I do with no kids to run here there and everywhere that week?

Camping in the rain

2010-06-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

The week before Memorial Day Joe ended up with 6 days off in a row. Looking for something to do close to home we decided to go camping. I love camping and was really looking forward to this trip but as we watched the weather forecast it wasn't looking good. Lots of rain. :( Being adventurous and REALLY wanting to go I convinced Joe & Brian to go anyway and give it our best effort - after all we were only going 2 hours away how bad could it be? It started raining on the way to the campground but it was just a few sprinkles. We had a great dinner and sat by the campfire just relaxing. Over night the storm let loose and we were treated to lots of wind, rain and thunder. In the morning the rain had stopped but Kevin and Kaitlin were soaked as the tent had leaked. Apparently we have never camped in such rough weather before as we have used the tent countless times with no problems. The morning looked good so we had a hearty breakfast and headed out on a hike. It was absolutely beautiful! I LOVE being in the mountains. During the hike it started to sprinkle again so we headed back to camp. By the time we got back the rain was in full swing. I sat in the car with Tyler as he took a 3 hour nap while Joe, Brian, Kaitlin and Kevin played games and tried to keep a smile on their faces. Meantime our poor dogs were freezing. I looked out the car window to see Tank - Brian's boxer walk by in a garbage bag! We had gone up to the nearest town to see if we could find some doggies coats but alas little towns have no pet stores so they bought a beanie and cut a head hole and leg holes for Harley - Brian's Boston Terrier & put old Tshirts on Tank & Cleo to keep them warm, then put the trash bags over the Tshirts in an attempt to keep them dry! When Tyler woke up from his nap he was not a happy camper. He loves camping but had had enough and begged us to take him home. Brian my die hard camper looked at me and said he was ready to call it quits and Joe who was only there to humor me made his opinion clear as well. We checked the local forcast & discovered that the previous nights storm was nothing compared to one the headed our direction so we headed back and in a record 45 minutes had camp broken down and packed in the car ready to head out. Guess we'll have to try another time. I so appreciate my guys who were willing to go out in the rain just to give me a chance to be in the mountains. I am so lucky!!!

The whole reason for going! Need I say more?

Me, Brian, Ty, Kevin, Kait, Cleo, Tank & Harley at the trailhead

Cleo & Harley trying to stay warm together

Heaven on earth!

For Carinna

2010-05-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

I gave Andrea a hard time the other day for not updating her blog and then Carinna called and gave me a hard time for not updating mine! Lots has happened since that last entry at the beginning of March.

March -
We celebrated Joe's birthday by driving to Vegas and spending the weekend with all our girls. Amanda flew in from Denver and Alex & Nick drove down from Rexburg. We had a four person birthday celebration as we helped Papa Joe turn 53, Andrea turn 28, Avery turn 3, and Kaeden turn 2. Riley was supposed to catch a ride back up to school with Alex & Nick but decided to stay and spend a few weeks with Britt & Derek before heading back to Idaho. We had loads of fun but had to come home way too soon! I would post pictures but we left the camera in Vegas by mistake and someone - I won't say who - has not mailed it back to me yet.

April -
Joe and I spent our 31st anniversary in Hawaii. We have the benefit of having great friends serving a mission at the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu so we had a place to stay and easy access to the best places to visit. We climbed to the top of Diamond Head, went snorkeling at Huanama Bay, took a glass bottom boat out to see the coral reef and the sea turtles, toured the Dole Pineapple Plantation (ate enough fresh pineapple during the week to make me sick of fresh pineapple!), toured several botanical gardens and a few museums. We toured the Arizona, the Bowfin and the Aviation Museum, bought souviniers at the famous "Aloha Swap Meet", and visited the PCC. Neither one of us are beach people so we spent very little time at the beach but we did take the time to sit and watch the sunset at Sunset Beach. We got to eat lots of fun food as we tried several very small local restaurants and while the temple was closed for renovations we got to tour the grounds and the visitors center. Charlene & Terry (our hosts) have a grandson named Parker who is reading Flat Stanley in school. He had sent a Flat Parker to them and asked them to take picture of Flat Parker wherever they went in Hawaii and then send them back to him for a class project. Flat Parker went with us everywhere we went and is in more pictures than either Joe or I but it was lots of fun to get shots for them. We had a really wonderful time. Not much relaxing but lots of different activities from our usual daily routine so it was a nice break. Again no pictures but this time I'm blaming Joe. We still don't have the camera back from Vegas but we had had so many problems with that one we went ahead a bought a new one for Hawaii. When we got home he downloaded all of our pictures onto his computer and cleared them off of the camera card. He copied them to an external drive for me but I haven't been able to get them to copy onto my computer so I can resize them and upload them on the blog. Hopefully I will figure it out soon!

May -
We found out that Kaitlin has enough credits to graduate at the end of first semester next year. She will be done with high school in December! That is a bit scary to me!
The end of seminary! Today was the last day of seminary for the year. What ever will I do next week when my alarm does not go off at 5:30am? The sad thing is I will probably end up waking up at 5:30 anyway for the next few weeks until I adjust to not having to be up. I have loved being there with the kids and the last few days have been very nice as things have wound down. One of the students baked me cookies as a thank you for being there every morning, another one stopped and gave me a hug and said thanks for being the principal - this particular student is one who I had had problems with last year when I had subbed for his class so it was especially nice to have him stop and say thanks for everything. This morning one of the classes gave me flowers and a thank you card which was very sweet. Four of our five teachers are not returning next year, I will miss them dearly! They have strengthened my testimony and it has been so nice to serve with them. All of them thanked me for always being there to help and said that I spoil them. One of them said he thinks that attendance has doubled since I took over as principal because the kids know that I care. That meant a lot to me as I always wonder if it matters whether or not I'm there everyday or if I stay the entire time, but I realized this week that the teachers and students do notice and it does matter to them.

We are going camping next week and I can't wait. I love being out in nature and really having a chance to enjoy all the beautiful things Heavenly Father has blessed us with on this earth. I'll try to take possession of the camera when we get back so I can post pictures. I make no promises but I will try to post more regularly over the summer!

Coming Home

2010-03-15T12:15:00.000-07:00

When Joe & I came home from choir practice yesterday Tyler came running and yelled with joy "Papa Joe you're here! I love you Papa Joe! I've been waiting to see you!" Then he proceeded to blow us kisses from the top of the stairs. Needless to say it filled our hearts with joy and laughter. As I thought about that later in the day I wondered if that is what it will be like when we return to our Father in Heaven. Will we shout with joy and love that we have been waiting to see Him? Or shrink in embarrassment over how we have lived? I hope I shout with joy!

Rising numbers

2010-03-10T16:04:00.000-08:00

Andrea and Todd have announced the pending arrival of their third child in late fall. That will make 5 grandkids! Andrea read some Chinese calendar and it predicts an 89% chance it's a girl. I guess we'll find out how accurate the Chinese calendar is! Needless to say we are thrilled.

Shared experience

2010-03-10T15:55:00.000-08:00

Kaitlin got her braces off two weeks ago and last week Kevin & I both got our top ones on. So after 10 kids 6 of whom needed braces (two of those as adults who paid for them themselves) I get my turn. I don't mind the pressure so much and I haven't had any pain but I am not enjoying the cuts on the inside of my mouth from the wires & brackets. I am becoming good friends with my wax! We have had at least one of us in braces for the last 5 years running but hopefully in two more we will all be done!

Expanding the next generation

2010-02-25T11:33:00.001-08:00

Alex and Nick are expecting their first baby in September. This will be our fourth grandchild. The race is on to see if they have the first girl!

Catching up

2010-02-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

It feels like I haven't posted anything forever. We have had a string of things lately that have kept me occupied doing other things. A couple of weeks ago Joe's hard drive crashed and he lost everything on his computer. Thankfully he had almost everything backed up so once the new drive was in he was able to restore most of what he had. That same week the microwave quit working, the stove top got water in the electronic ignition and we had to keep it unplugged until it dried out other wise it clicked incessantly, the suburban broke down and if that wasn't enough I ended up with a 3 day long migraine and the week ended with my computer drive crashing, only I did not have things backed up so I lost everything. Needless to say blogging was put on hold. Joe & Brian replaced the fuel pump in the suburban, but we ended up having to take it to a mechanic because the service engine soon light would not turn off. It turned out that in the middle of checking to see what was wroing with the suburban a spark plug was cracked causing the light to stay on. It ran fine for almost a week but the light is back on and the brakes are starting to grind! We got a new drive for my computer but two weeks later I'm still reconfiguring things. The stove top dried out after a few days and works fine now. We had an old microwave in the garage that we brought in to use until we can get the good one fixed but it sounded like a plane trying to take off everytime we used it. The other day Joe noticed that the side panel on the good microwave wasn't sealed all the way closed. He pushed on it, it popped in place and lo & behold it works! If only everything was that simple!

Special Moments

2010-01-22T13:09:00.001-08:00

The other day we were watching Tyler while Brian & Katie were out. He was on a roll and would not eat breakfast without Papa Joe, so Joe sat down with him and they ate together. You will have to excuse the blurry photo as the pro was unavailable!

Reflections

2010-01-06T15:01:00.000-08:00

Joe and I went to see Blind Side recently. It has been a long time since I have been so deeply affected by a movie. It made me reflect on our experiences with foster care and adopting. It brought back lots of memories and lots of feelings from that time. It reminded me how much strenght and help Heavenly Father grants me daily.

This past weekend we became aware of the passing of a young man whom we knew in Las Vegas. In the midst of feeling sorrow and heartache for the family I also felt the blessing of the gospel. How much it means to me to know that Heavenly Father watches over each of us. He will bring comfort and help to this family and all those who knew this young man.

This past Sunday Joe & I attended the CHP Academy orientation with Greg. He reported to the academy on Monday morning to begin his training and will live there for the next 6 months. As we sat through the orientation my heart was heavy at the description of all that Greg would be going through and having to endure during that time. He has already been through one law enforcement academy so he knew full well what it would mean to sign up and I knew as well, but it is a whole different experience to sit and listen to those who run the program, the current cadets, recent graduates, and wives of former cadets who are now officers. When we left I asked Greg how he was feeling and he said a little nervous but mostly excited. I looked at Joe and said "Greg may not need a blessing before you drop him off tomorrow morning, but I think I will." It was so hard to know the things he will be experiencing and as a mom all you want is to protect your kids and not have them have to go through such tough times. We went straight to church from the orientation which was great. Being fast Sunday several members shared experiences where Heavenly Father had helped them to endure and feel peace. I felt so much better about things knowing that while we will have limited contact with Greg over the next 6 months Heavenly Father will be with him everyday. I am so grateful to be at a place in my life where I don't have to say "I hope" Heavenly Father will be there, I know He will be with there.

Quilting Mania

2010-01-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

Eons ago when I only had 3 children - yes there was a time when I only had 3! - I made quilts for each of them. Andrea came across her quilt while she was here for Christmas and asked if I would make Avery and Kaeden each a quilt. That was all well and good except that they were only here for another couple of days. So we went shopping, bought supplies and got started. Two days, two quilts, and two happy boys later Andrea has an idea how to make a quilt for the rest of her children as they come.

Kaeden with blue ties on his CARS quilt

Avery with green ties on his CARS quilt

Christmas

2010-01-05T17:55:00.001-08:00

Yes I know it's late for this but after having kids coming and going over a two week period I am just now getting caught up on things. Christmas was WONDERFUL! Having all of the family here made for the perfect day for me. As Amanda says I am happiest when "all of my ducks are swimming on the same pond." It was noisy and a little crazy but I loved having everyone here and I really appreciate the sacrifice on all of their parts to be here. A few years ago Joe was looking for a specific sweatshirt for Greg from Butler University and came across a Tshirt that said "Butler Girls Rock". Since then we have joked about making our own shirts for the girls. This year we decided to go for it but use aprons instead of Tshirts so with Brian & Joe's help I designed and made 10 aprons. Note to the rest of you - Avery Dark Tshirt Transfers are a PAIN in the neck to use! Joe became an expert at getting them off of the transfer paper so I could iron them on but we will never use them again. Three of the girls were gone when we got the pictures taken and they came out blurry but here they are anyway.

Cleo in Kaitlin's apron showing she is a Butler girl too
The only clear picture of the apron but missing Cleo's head!

Alex, Riley, Kelly
Amanda, Kaitlin, Andrea

Following through

2009-12-20T17:19:00.001-08:00

After hours and hours of practice I finally played the song I have been working on at the music party last night. It is such a relief to have it over! I don't remember a time when I have been so nervous but despite the list of excuses I had ready to go I actually followed through on my goal and played the piano in public. I didn't want to go first but I wanted to play early so that I could relax and enjoy the rest of the performances, so I went second. All in all it went well. My hands were shaking so bad I'm surprised that I could play at all but I only messed up once. About 3/4 of the way through the song I hear "Papa Joe answer your phone. Papa answer your phone." which is the ring tone on Joe's cell phone. My mind went blank for a minute but I recovered by just playing part of the interlude and going on to the end of the song. Other than finishing, the best part was that no one noticed the mistake. Since they weren't familiar with the arrangement they had no idea that I left out an entire line! Now that it is over my family will celebrate never having to hear that arrangement of Away in a Manger again!

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Growing up in Wyoming I loved the change in seasons and nothing was more beautiful than the first snowfall of winter. Waking up to a world blanketed in pure white was one of my favorite things. (I admit that by the time the last snowfall came I didn't love it so much.) Since leaving Wyoming 23 years ago I have not lived anywhere that it snows in winter. Seven years in Santa Barbara - no snow, nine years on the central coast - no snow, four years in Vegas - no snow, 3 years in El Dorado Hills - one snowfall that melted by ten am and then this Monday SNOW!!! I woke up a little cranky at 5:30 for seminary but when I looked out the window and saw all the snow, joy filled my heart. So many memories! Best of all a snow day! I kid you not, 2-3" of new fallen snow and school was cancelled. No school or seminary for two days. The kids have had a great time sleddidng and snowboarding down the hill leading into our community, building snowforts in the park and snowmen all over the neighborhood. Here it is Thursday and the snow is still here. My own Christmas miracle! These pictures were taken at 6:30am before the sun came up.

The backyard

Backyard

Looking from our front yard across to the neighbors

View up the street

Peaceful changes

2009-11-11T13:29:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we had Stake Conference. Our stake president was released and a new one was called. It was such a spiritual meeting and a sweet experience to feel the changing of the mantle with no fuss or contention. I think about other religions who have councils that meet and nominate people and those that actually have to campaign for leadership and I am grateful that we have revelation as to who Heavenly Father would have serve at this time. I am grateful to have been in the presence of two general authorities who shared their genuine love and concern for each of us, who shared messages of hope and direction. I am grateful to have the gospel in my life.

What was I thinking?

2009-10-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Last Monday night Kevin gave a great FHE lesson on setting S.M.A.R.T. goals. S - specific, M - measurable, A - attainable, R - realistic, T - timed. As he was sharing his lesson the piano was in plain sight and I knew my goal needed to be regaining the skills I have lost by not playing consistently over the last 18 months. I have always wanted to play the piano but had never felt like I had the time and being an adult I thought it was too late to learn. Then my dad inspired me by starting to take lessons in his 60's. If he could do it then I could do it. I found a teacher and have taken lessons off and on over the last 10 years. I had gotten to a point where I was actually playing songs that I once thought were impossible. I'd look at the music and think "really?" there are way too many notes stacked up there for me to figure out, but I was getting there. Then home school arrived and piano went by the wayside. Over the last couple of months I have felt like it was time to get back at it but had not done anything about it. After Kevin's lesson I made a commitment to myself that I would get started. The next morning I opened an email from a friend who has a holiday music party every December at her home. She invites family and friends to share their talents and have a fun evening of socializing and sharing in their love of music. Under the influence of Kevin's lesson I sent her a reply committing to play a song at the party. I know that I have a fear of playing in public and felt I needed to challenge myself to overcome that fear so I replied while I was still thinking about the lesson and before I could talk myself out of it. Playing at the party would fulfill most of the criteria - it makes the goal specific, measurable, and timed. The question is, is it realistic and attainable? I have not played in public because I don't have the confidence that I can do it without panicking and hitting the wrong keys. It is now Saturday and I have practiced everyday but I find myself wondering more each day - "What on earth was I thinking?"

Best way to start the day

2009-10-09T08:25:00.000-07:00

I just got home from the most amazing seminary morningside. The topic was scripture study and the speakers were the students. 7 students had been asked to share an experience when reading the scriptures had helped them or made a difference in their lives, then the meeting was opened to the rest of the students to bear their testimonies. It was one of the most spiritual meetings I have ever been to. I am so grateful to be a part of seminary and to spend my mornings with these youth.

Super Ty!

2009-10-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

Aren't his glasses supposed to come off in the phone booth?

Favorite Pictures from Alaska

2009-10-03T15:50:00.001-07:00

Home Sweet Home!

2009-09-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

After traveling 7978 miles in the last month I am finally home!

At the beginning of the month the kids pitched in and flew Joe & I out to Vegas for my birthday. It was a wonderful trip as I got to spend time with our kids and grandkids as well as some of my extended family. It was so fun to see Avery & Kaeden. They are growing fast and have such fun personalities! I got to spend my birthday with my daughters & their families, my mom & dad, two of my sisters, my brother & his family, Joe's sister Carol, as well as some of my nieces & nephews. Ryan (my nephew) got married the weekend we were there as well so we got to attend the celebration. It was so nice to be at a wedding that was NOT one of my kids!

I was home from Vegas for 3 days before heading up to Alaska to help Amanda move from Juneau to Denver. On the way to the airport Joe & I were in an accident which was a very "exciting" way to start the journey. Thankfully neither one of us were seriously injured which was the first of several miracles on this journey. The truck however did not fair as well and has been deemed totaled by the insurance company. Despite the accident and thanks to Brian's quick arrival I actually made my fliglht to Juneau on time.
The morning I left for Juneau I had expressed some concerns about the trip to Joe, upon arriving in Juneau Amanda mentioned that she was feeling some unease regarding our planned route. We decided to pray and both felt we needed to change our route and go a different direction. We called Joe and discussed it with him and then we called and changed our ferry tickets not knowing that this would be the first of three changes. We both felt at peace that we could now make the journey safely.
Amanda's car had broken down a couple of days before I arrived and since it is a Volkswagon they had to have the part shipped in to repair it. After two days of waiting and several promises by the auto parts store in Anchorage to deliver the part via express plane it still had not arrived. We were running out of time to make it to Denver on schedule. Miracle #2. After some very sincere prayers we got a call from the repair shop that despite being assured that the part had not arrived on the morning plane, the airport was now calling to let them know that a package had been found in the terminal addressed to them. It was her part and we were told we could pick up the car at 10:30am. At 3:30 we boarded the ferry and said good-bye to Juneau. Alaska is a rugged and beautiful area. It was in many ways awe inspiring and I wish I had had more time to explore.

After 2.5 days on the ferry we arrived in Canada and began the 1789 mile drive to El Dorado Hills. I learned what it meant to pray unceasingly as we encountered bad weather, and treacherous mountian passes on unfamiliar roads in a foreign country. The scenery was breath taking at times and so was the drive! I admit to being grateful when we crossed the border back into the United States and felt a sense of peace at being "home". It took us 2.5 days to make the drive and we were in El Dorado Hills less than 24 hours before we headed back out on the road to get to Denver. This time around we had Joe & Kaitlin with us. After another 2 days of driving we arrived in Denver at midnight, unloaded Amanda's belongings and were back on the road by 1:30am to head home as Joe had to be at work Saturday night at 7pm. After 10 days, 6778 miles, 4189 of which were by car I am grateful to be sleeping in my own bed again!

I am grateful for the safety of our journey but most of all for the presence of our Heavenly Father with us. I know Joe & I were protected during the accident. I know that Heavenly Father produced the part for Amanda's car. I know that He watched over Amanda and I as we drove alone through Canada and the northern states, and I know how much I value the priesthood in my life. I have come to take it for granted as I have Joe, Brian & Greg in the house but I realized on this trip how much it means to me to have the priesthood constantly available. Part of the reason Amanda & I both felt uneasy was that we are used to having constant access to priesthood protection. We knew we would be without that for several days and it concerned us. We learned that while we did not have immediate access to the priesthood we did have immediate access to Heavenly Father. He accompanied us throughout the journey and reassured us that even though we thought we were alone we in fact were not.

Gotta love nature . . NOT!

2009-09-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Today I was leaving to take Kelly to work and noticed a guy on a bike at the end of my driveway. As I pulled out he was waving and pointing behind me. I thought maybe there was a small dog or a toy in the street so I rolled down my window to see what he was worried about - no dog, no toy, just a 3-4 foot rattlesnake!!!! It was heading right for the driveway. I called Katie in the house and told her not to let Tyler, Kevin or the dogs outside. I stopped at our neighbors house and asked him if he could take care of it since Joe, Brian and Greg were all gone. Being the wonderful guy that he is, he and his wife headed straight for the house to solve the problem. After a little snake wrangling Renee pinned it down while Vearl beheaded it. Thank heavens for great neighbors!! The guy on the bike did suggest that I just run over it and kill it but I couldn't do it. I don't know if that would have killed it or not but it would have bothered me too much. I feel bad enough having asked Vearl to do it but there are so many little kids in the neighborhood as well as dogs it had to go. :(

One week down . . . thirty-six more to go

2009-08-14T16:19:00.000-07:00

We made it through the first week of seminary. Yea!!! I do admit that this morning when the alarm went off I was looking for someone to remind me that I was excited about this on Monday. It is surprising how quickly the kids get into the flow of things. Monday and Tuesday were crazy but by Wednesday we were calming down and on Thursday I actually got to sit down and get some scripture study done. Thursday by 7:10 all but 4 kids were in the building and in the classrooms they belonged in but today was obviously Friday! We had a handful of kids absent and several who came in late. Oh well four days in a row of no absences and very low tardy count is great!

Kevin redeemed himself nicely by being up and ready to go the rest of the week as well as becoming the first of ten kids to pass of a scripture mastery scripture the first week. He passed one off on Wednesday and another one on Thursday. Kaitlin passed off her first one today. Life is good.

And we're off!!

2009-08-10T13:00:00.001-07:00

Seminary started today and the principal's son was not in attendance. Yes, that would be Kevin. Since Kevin moves very slowly in the mornings I asked him to set his alarm for 4:30am so we could be out the door by 5:30. He argued that he did not need that much time to get ready etc, etc. I reminded him that he had to get himself up as he is now in high school and no one else was going to take responsibility for him. I came downstairs at 5:20 to get my things together and found Kaitlin ready but Kevin was no where to be found. He had not gotten up despite his alarm going off repeatedly. As Kaitlin and I were heading out the door he came stumbling out of his room but it was too late to wait for him. So out of 10 kids he is the first one to miss his first day of seminary. He also holds the dubious distinction of being the only one not to get himself up and ready to go on his own. I am so grateful for kids who for the last 16 years have gotten up on time and not fussed about attending seminary, most especially Riley, Kelly & Kaitlin who had to set their alarms a full hour earlier than they were used to once I was called as principal. Not one of them complained, they simply got up earlier and got ready so that I could be there in time to fulfill my responsibilities. I should state here that I owe my mom a huge apology for having to force me to attend my first day of seminary! Sorry mom, and thanks for making me go. It made a huge difference in my life.

Other than having to leave Kevin home things went smoothly. We have five classes meeting at our building, two at 6am and three at 7am, but today they all met at 7. Last year Kelly & Riley took roll for me while I met with the teachers for prayer meeting. This year I left the roll with Kaitlin, when I came back Kaitlin handed me the roll and said "I can't handle this, it's too overwhelming!" In her defense approximately 110 kids arrived between 6:55 and 7:05. After some minor chaos we got them all in the correct classrooms.

As crazy as it sounds I am glad to be back at seminary. There is something about being around so many amazing kids filled with excitement so early in the morning! I also have no doubt that I will need someone to remind me of this statement in the weeks and months to come.

Catching up

2009-07-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

The week before Kevin & Kaitlin's birthdays Kaitlin was complaining that she had never had a birthday party and had decided that since she was 16 and had never had one there was no point in starting to have them now. While it is not true that she has never had a party she got one this year anyway. The week after their birthdays we had a surprise party at a neighbors house for both of them. They had a great time swimming and playing games, we redeemed ourselves as parents and were moved from the deadbeat parent column into the okay parent column for at least one night. Katie and Brian took care of the cake for us by making cupcakes that looked like hamburgers. They turned out great as always and everyone loved the idea.

In an effort to keep on top of things with the kids I have set up a facebook page but I use it about as often as I blog so it will be a challenge to keep up with everyone and what is going on. Hopefully I will get better at both.

After spending two months in Alaska with Amanda, Kelly has arrived back home. She loved the scenery, went hunting - saw a bear, went fishing - caught a 13lb salmon, and ate it! Fell in love - and out of love, and generally had a busy two months. We are happy to have her home safe.

One of Ty's favorite things

2009-07-11T17:20:00.001-07:00

Motorcycle rides with Papa

Ridin' bikes is serious business!

Growing up

2009-07-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

Kevin & Kaitlin both celebrated their birthdays last week. Kevin turned 14 and Kaitlin 16. My mom also celebrated her birthday last week but I don't think she would appreciate my sharing her age here!

Pulling candles out of his Banana Cream Pie

We were adventurous and made Baked Alaska for Kaitlin

The light dawns! Kaitlin finally realized her gift was a facebook account.

4th of July

2009-07-11T17:01:00.000-07:00

We had a relatively quiet 4th this year. Our neighborhood has a party at the park every year with a bike parade for all of the kids. Tyler rode his bike about 100 feet and decided that was enough, he went straight to the park and waited for the fun to begin! It was a nice calm day with our neighbors and then back home to crash for awhile. Greg & Carinna decided to run a quick errand and found a rattle snake under their car. That was our excitement for the day. Joe & Brian were able to get it in a cooler and relocate it to a vacant field away from the neighborhood. The snake was about 18" long and had 4 buttons on the rattle. Needless to say we are all much more cautious outside and keep a closer eye on Ty when he's out of the house.

Ty dressed in red, white & blue riding his bike at the park on the 4th.

Directionally challenged

2009-06-27T16:28:00.000-07:00

We decided to get out of the house today and settled on a drive up Hwy 50 to see some local waterfalls and have a picnic. Looking online we found several waterfalls in the area but I had to laugh as I read the information. One of them actually said that if you could see the falls they would be rated a 9 or 10 but since you can't see them due to too much tree cover they couldn't recommend them and the trail up is so steep that a fall would mean certain death! If you can't see them how do you rank them a 9 or 10 and if you slip on the trail it means certain death why on earth are they listed on the website? Another description of different falls said that they were spectacular but again you can't see them! He found them by looking on Google earth and then used his GPS to find his way there. There is no trail to follow and you have to cut down brush cover on top of which the hike is so steep that it is rated dangerous. He does not recommend you try to find them but if you decide to go anyway download his directions and take your GPS so you don't get lost in the woods! Again why are these falls listed on the site? We decided on a much easier journey and chose two waterfalls that are easily accesible. We found Bridal Veil Falls with no trouble as it was right on the road. However, Jay Bird Canyon Falls proved a bit more elusive. The instructions seemed very simple, turn left on Peavine Ridge Rd and go 11.9 miles to the falls. What they left out is that 3 miles up Peavine Ridge Rd there is a fork in the road with no signs to indicate which way the falls are. Having a 50/50 chance we went right but it turned out we should have gone left. If you remember correctly from the hike to Hidden Pond we turned left when we should have turned right! Thankfully this time we were driving and not hiking. We ended up at a very beautiful campground but there were no falls anywhere to be seen. Since Greg & Carinna had to be back by 4 we gave up on searching for the falls and had lunch down by the river before driving back home. It was a really beautiful drive and reminded me why I love living in this area.

Wild flowers by the river

Kevin & Kaitlin rock hopping along the river

Carinna & Greg enjoying lunch

Dad & I by Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls

Missin' my goofy girls

2009-06-23T13:50:00.001-07:00

Looking through pictures the other day I came across a file of pictures from a couple of trips we took a year or two ago. The girls were having a lot of fun just goofing off with Alex's camera. Since they are all gone now (except Kaitlin) it brought back lots of fun memories and laughs. Miss you guys!

All by myself!

2009-06-23T13:38:00.000-07:00

Almost all of my posts that contain pictures have been fixed or worked on by Andrea, Riley or Katie but today I changed my background and all of the details by myself! Yea! I am finally getting this (or so I think.)

Wake up call

2009-06-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

This past week was girls camp for our stake. Friday was the last night of camp and the girls had the usual end of camp testimony meeting. Our stake president and his wife were there and spoke to the girls as well as bore their testimonies of Christ and the gospel. On the way home at about 2am President Wood and his wife were in an accident. Kathy died instantly and President Wood is in a coma in critical condition. Needless to say our entire stake is in shock. What a reminder that we never know how much time we have here. Today at church one of my friends who is related to them and knew them well made the comment that if anyone was ready to go it was Kathy. She had her life in order and truly loved Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. What an astounding comment and compliment. It made me take a step back and ask myself am I ready? Would those who know me best say the same thing? I am so grateful for a lovnig Heavenly Father who watches over us and gives us opportunities to learn and grow. Our hearts go out to the Wood family.

A few of my favorite things

2009-06-20T20:45:00.000-07:00

We love to camp but have not had time to get away so we decided to take a day hike instead just to get out in nature for awhile. Last week we decided to hike out to Hidden Pond on the Dead Truck Trail (don't you just love the name?) which was supposed to be a 5.3 mile moderate hike, however we took a wrong turn at a fork in the trail and ended up hiking an extra mile and a half by the time we were done. To be away from the noise of life and enjoy some of God's creations was such a blessing. Here are some of my favorite pictures from that day.

Kaitlin, Katie, Kevin, Brian, Tyler & I on the trail

The view across the ravine

Brian helping Katie down from the trail to Hidden Pond - yes it was as steep as it looks

You can onlly see this waterfall by climbing down from the trail and crossing the rocks surrounding the pond. Definitely worth the trip!

Looking down the river away from the pond

Kevin & Kaitlin debating whether or not to put their feet in the icy water

Tyler & Gran enjoying the view & the sun

Tyler with Papa Joe & Tank

Our cover girl Katie ready for her closeup

The water was very cold & Tyler wouldn't put his feet in but his head was okay!

Brian & Tyler putting shoes on to begin the climb out

The only way out is up!

Even though we were all sore for the next few days it was a wonderful day. I'm so glad we went.

Quiet house

2009-06-04T19:56:00.000-07:00

We are down to six in the house which is funny if you think about the fact that 25 years ago we added Greg and became a family of six. It has been 13 years since there were only six of us in the family. 1996 began our journey with foster care and adoption, our house has been filled to capacity and often overflowing ever since. Greg & Carinna have both started online classes so they are out of sight most nights, Brian, Katie & Ty are still in Idaho hanging out at the ranch, Riley has moved into her dorm and is beginning college life in Rexburg and Kelly has moved up to Alaska to become an Eskimo with Amanda, so the house feels pretty quiet. If we could get Tank & Harley to quit barking everytime they hear a noise the silence would probably be deafening!

Britt and Derek's Wedding

2009-05-26T17:54:00.000-07:00

(click on the pictures to enlarge them)

Joe and Brittney before the wedding

Walking down the "aisle"

Bonnie, Brittney, Derek, and Joe

Avery, Brittney, Kaeden, and Tyler

Kaeden and Great Grandma Johnston

Kaeden and Great Grandpa Johnston

Bye-bye Ri-Ri

2009-05-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

So Riley is all grown up (or at least pretending to be) and has headed off to college. After attending Britt's wedding she headed off to Idaho with Katie & Brian for a two week stay at spa Smith, aka Katie's parents house in Preston, after which Brian & Katie will take her over to Rexburg & get her moved in to her dorm. Classes begin on June 4th and I know she will be a wonderful addition to BYUI. Here are some of the things we will miss most about Ri Ri:

1. Her mischievious smile
2. The wicked glint in her eye when she's up to something
3. Her willingness to help with anything
4. Her company
5. Her sense of humor
6. Her "professional" driving skills
7. Her help in understanding what's funny and what's not
8. Phil
9. Her loving nature
10.Her example

Good luck at school. We love you Ri!

Weddings, weddings & more weddings

2009-05-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

So we have now survived our third wedding in 7 months. I would love to say that I hope we are done for the rest of the year but everytime I voice a comment along those lines I am proven wrong! Brittney and Derek's wedding was beautiful. They chose a really beautiful location in St. George UT where we were joined by family and friends. It is always a sweet experience to be with those closest to us on special occasions whether in person or in spirit. Hopefully I will become more competent at adding pictures to my posts and you will all get to see how nice things turned out for both Brittney and Alex.

Something's wrong here

2009-05-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

Living in a family with 10 kids 7 of whom are girls you get used to seeing lots of girls and ony a couple of boys sitting around the table. The other night at dinner I looked around and realized that Carinna & I were the only girls at the table with Joe, Brian, Tyler, Greg & Kevin. It felt really strange to be in the minority!

To walk or not to walk continued. . .

2009-05-05T11:41:00.001-07:00

So I walked! Yes I actually made the entire 13.2 miles!!! It took me 3 hrs 46 min which is not too bad all things considered. Kevin & Riley ran it in 2.5 hrs, Kaitlin walked it in 3 hrs 30 min, Brian & Katie finished in 3 hrs 40 min, and Joe finished in 4 hrs 5 min. Somewhere between mile 5 & 6 Joe & I split up which left me on my own on the trail. It was a really beautiful area and I enjoyed the scenery but somewhere between mile 8 & 9 I had to start convincing myself I really could do it and if I just kept putting one foot in front of the other the finish line would eventually appear. By mile 10 I was making up silly rhymes to keep my mind off the pain in my hips and legs. By mile 11 I was starting to feel the joy of knowing I was going to make it and nothing was as sweet as seeing the finish line and knowing I could stop and rest! We were all sore Saturday night but we all survived. It is amazing what we can accomplish when we put our minds to it. We had a good time as a family and it was fun (yes I said fun) to do it together. Reflecting back on it and being asked why on earth I would do it I think I just needed something to push me forward right now. It's been a difficult year and I needed to find out if I really could do something hard. Did I still have the ability to get outside of my comfort zone and succeed. It is nice to know the answer is yes.

Life's Greatest Joy

2009-04-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we had the opportunity to take Alex through the temple to receive her endowments and be sealed to Nick. Nothing in life can compare with being in the temple with your kids. Brian, Katie, Andrea, Todd, Greg & Carinna were all there with us. Amanda was there in spirit but was not able to come in from Alaska to be there in person and we missed her as well as aunts, uncles and grandparents who we love. The weather was absolutly beautiful which was nice as it had been bitter cold and raining earlier in the week. Heavenly Father truly blessed us with a wonderful day. Nicks family all came down from Idaho which was really nice. It was a fun experience to meet Alex's mother in law in the dressing room in the temple! We had lots of fun, lots of love and most of all lots of joy. Katie & Brian once again stepped up to bat and pulled off all the decorations, food, and photography. Everyone pitched in to help set up & clean up. It always amazes me as I watch the kids pull together to help each other out how much they have grown and the love they have for one another. Saturday as I reflected on the day I realized that exactly nine years ago on April 18th we were sitting in a court room signing the final adoption papers and Alex legally became our responsibility. How fitting that nine years later to the day, she legally became Nick's responsibility!

Entering the 21st Century

2009-04-05T18:14:00.000-07:00

I have had the same glasses for the last 4 or 5 years and have noticed over the last few months that when I put them down on a counter, bookshelf, table, etc. I can't find them. They are frameless and blend right into whatever surface they are on. I find myself running my hands across the surfaces hoping to bump them so I can find them. I'm sure it is an amusing sight and makes it appear that my sight is worse than it really is. I should probably explain that I need them for distance and take them off in order to read which means they are off on a regular basis. Since I needed a new perscription I decided that it might be time for new frames that I won't lose when I put them down. Joe helped me pick the new ones and assured me they look great. When I came home with them Greg said "wow, welcome to the 21st century mom". They are so different that I do a double take every time I see them in a mirror. I end up laughing and wonder if they are really "me". Since my insurance only allows new frames every other year I have plenty of time to get used to them. Riley and I tried to get pictures of both sets but it didn't work too well so you'll just have to use your imagination! The new frames have wide black arms and have black along the top edge. They are not quite the shape of cat eye lenses but they're close.

So now that I posted four in one day can I be lazy for four months??

Conference

2009-04-05T17:49:00.000-07:00

I loved conference. I am so grateful to be a member of the church and have the opportunity to hear from the Prophet and apostles on a regular basis. No matter what is going on in life there is something in the conference talks that brings comfort, peace & hope. My new quote comes from Elder Neil L Anderson's talk as he quoted President Monson. There seems to be a running theme in my quotes regarding challenges and having the strength to get through them. Our family seems to be going through a time of growth and learning which means challenge and struggle. It will be interesting to see what quotes I am drawn to as different challenges pass and new ones arrive.

To walk or not to walk

2009-04-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

Katie found out about a half marathon in May which we are planning on doing together as a family. Some of us will run (obiviously not me) and some of us will walk. I am hoping to get clearance from the Dr this week to participate. Right now I have permission to do training walks but she won't clear me to enter until the lab tests come back. Last week I walked 2.8 miles on Monday and 2.25 on Tuesday then spent Wednesday and Thursday down and pretty much non functioning. By Friday I was regaining some strength & energy. This week I think I will try walking every other day and see if I can handle that better. Whether or not I get to participate I am excited for everyone else. I think it is going to be a great opportunity for Riley to see what she can accomplish before heading off to college the first week of June. I also think Kevin will excel and it will bring him a measure of self assurance. He continues to struggle in school and was recently "excused" from science and math. His caseload teacher is also his constitution & history teacher. She really likes him and loves his quirky personality. She is the only teacher who has not "excused" him from attending class on campus. When I was meeting with her to get the teachers editions for the math I will now be in charge of she asked about my health and I mentioned it may be chronic fatigue, she asked if I was sure is wasn't chronic Kevin!

My how time passes

2009-04-05T17:14:00.000-07:00

As is blatantly obvious I am not getting better at this blog thing. It has been a tremendously busy and crazy time around here and I recognize that the more stressed I feel the more private I become. It is hard to write to an unknown audience and express daily ups and downs. I am still fighting almost constant fatigue. The Dr is now checking for vitamin deficiency which I am hoping for as the alternative at this point is chronic fatigue syndrome. I cannot imagine feeling like this everyday for the rest of my life.

New quote

2009-03-09T16:44:00.001-07:00

I just changed my quote yesterday but had to change it again today. I signed up for an online seminar through Time Out For Women. Today I "attended" the first session with Sherri Dew. I really need this right now. The topic for this session is the Divine Influence of Women. In the midst of current challenges I often question my ability as a mother to guide the kids in the right direction. I love the quote from Abigail Adams about needing difficulties to form good character. It was a good reminder that instead of praying for things to be easier and trials to be lightened I need to pray that they find their true strength through their trials.

Newly employed

2009-03-08T21:36:00.000-07:00

Since Kelly & Riley have graduated from high school and have nothing to occupy their time til college begins we have "forced" them to join the ranks of the employed. They have been fortunate enough to find jobs this week. Kelly will be working at Solare, a tanning salon. The question now is will she save for school or will she tan instead? Since it will be obvious to all of us what her choice is we hope she will opt for college funds. Riley is now working at Subway. She started training on Wednesday of last week and then had her first day on Thursday. Here's how it went: she was scheduled to work from 1:30-5 at the Raley's location. The manager calls at 9:30am & says he needs her at the Safeway location asap, she says "ok". She comes and tells me she needs to go to work but I am in the middle of a lesson with Kevin and cannot just drop it at that moment. Brian is up to his elbows in glue getting sets and props ready for that nights roadshow. Greg, Carinna & Katie are not at home to take her. She says it's okay since her one and only uniform is in the washer! I ask if she let the manager know it would be close to 2 hours before she could get there as they had just started the washer, she said she let him know she'd be there in "awhile". The washer finishes and we hear her starting the dryer with only her uniform. We ask her to put the whole load in so the laundry can be kept going. About 15 minutes later we realize she has disappeared. We finally find her in her bathroom blow drying her pants with the hair dryer. On the way to drop her off Brian asks what time she will be done, her response: "I don't know." She did not ask how long she was supposed to be there nor did she find out if she was still supposed to work at the other location in the afternoon. She calls me at 1 and tells me the manager just walked in and said he needs her at the Raley's location right now. Once again Brian nor I can just drop everything and run. About half an hour later I finally get free and head out for her (keep in mind the store is 20 minutes from home). She calls to let me know she is in front of Safeway and not at Subway. I ask if her boss is aware that she does not have her own car and that she would have to wait for a ride between locations. She says she's not sure. I let her know this is the one and only time I will be transferring her from one store to another in the middle of the day. By the time I get her to the Raley's location it has been almost 90 minutes from the time she called. Her boss thinks she went straight there as she left Subway right after he came in! That night on the way home from roadshow I ask if she works the next day, she tells me that she doesn't know. She has only been hired as a relief worker and will not have a set schedule. They will only call when they need her. As the conversation continues it comes to light that not only will she not have a regular schedule but he had asked her if she could do transfers and she said yes not knowing that he meant going from store to store during the day. Then she tells me that he told her he didn't need anymore employees but since she was honest with him about leaving for school in June he decided to "squeeze" her in as a relief person! Remind me again why I made her get a job????

Saying goodbye

2009-03-08T21:33:00.000-07:00

It has taken me two months to be able to write this post. Over the years I have come to understand that there are pet people and non pet people. We are pet people, more specifically dog people and even more specifically English Bulldog people. The first night Katie met our family her impression was that we were a nice enough family but we loved our dogs WAY too much. That sums us up pretty well so when we lose one of them it hurts. Just before Christmas we had to put Brutus down. Anyone who knows Brutus knows that he was a bit psycho. He was definitely a case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide. He was one of the funniest and most loving dogs we have ever had but at the same time he could turn in a heartbeat and snap for no reason. At one time or another we have all been bit by him but we all accepted that that was life with Bru. We dealt with it because it was such a small part of him and the rest made up for it. However, as the numbers in the house increased he got more touchy and unpredictable. Having a baby in the house we just could not risk anymore problems and since he has a bite history we had to put him down. So here we are two months later finally able to say goodbye without completly breaking into sobs (just a few tears now). We miss his happy dance when we walk in the door, his soulful eyes as he silently plead for attention, his pushing himself between Joe & I or Brian & Katie on the couch, his mischieveousness as he dumped the toy box all over the floor to find his favorite ball, his invitation to play bow, his thinking he was a lap dog and plopping himself on us to watch tv, but most of all we miss his company. He brought lots of love and laughter into our lives and we miss that.

Off to school

2009-03-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

Talking with my mom this weekend she asked about Riley's college applications. I thought I had sent an email or put this info up already but apparently in the midst of shoehouse chaos I did not. Riley has been accepted to both BYU Idaho and Southern Virginia University. She has decided to attend BYU-I. She put down that there were no restrictions on her schedule so they assigned her the spring/fall semesters and gave her a start date of April 16th. Since Alex is getting married here on the 18th Riley will be deferring her start date until June. We are all very excited for her.

Raising the bar

2009-02-24T18:36:00.001-08:00

On Friday the seminary co-ordinator met with me to go over my responsibilities as the seminary principal. Turns out that our building has the worst tardy rate of all the seminaries in the area and he is hoping I can do something about it. Right! I spent the weekend contemplating different ideas to inspire the kids to come on time. Over half of the kids come in after 7:15. I discovered that the kids think seminary starts at 7:10 not 7:00 so they think 7:15 is okay. I wanted to find a way to help them that would be fun and motivating, hoping that would give us a better chance of success. So today I presented the plan to raise the bar. Starting next week I will be taking roll at the door. Each of the kids will have to check in with me as they come in the building so I will get to know them by name and know which class they are in. Tardy's will be counted starting at 7:05. The classes are divided by grade with the freshman in one class, sophomores & juniors together and seniors in their own class. For the month of March they will compete as classes to see which class will have the lowest number of tardies. That class will get a reward breakfast at the end of the month. Since some of the kids will come on time and end up not getting the breakfast due to others in their class, in April we will be rewarding individual students. Those who come on time for March and April with no tardies for 2 months will be treated to breakfast at the end of April. Believe it or not they did not stone me for this. Quite a few of them liked the idea, then there was the lukewarm crowd who may or may not participate, and of course the "no way am I doing that" group. I don't know how this will go but we are giving it our best shot for now. Talking with the teacher that I had subbed for in November I commented that I wasn't sure I was the right person to get this done. She replied that I was the only person who could get it done as I already have a reputation for being strict. I wasn't sure how I felt about that but Kelly assured me that it was a good thing. In the meantime any of you who have suggestions on how to motivate and inspire teenagers to be on time please let me know!

Learning to embrace . . .

2009-02-24T14:30:00.001-08:00

The last few months have been one challenge after another. There are times when I have wondered what's up with this? Can we not get one finished before the next one drops on us? How many things can we handle all at once? Enough already!! But as usual Heavenly Father has a different plan. For whatever reason He seems to think we are capable of handling all of this at once, so we are trying to trust and accept that answer. Last week I could feel the discouragement setting in, not just with me but it seemed to permeate the entire household. As I reflected on where we are and how long we've been there I realized that we are going to have to find a way to embrace these challenges and not just endure them. Instead of just trying to survive hoping that time alone will push us through we need to take an active role in the process. What is it that Heavenly Father would have us learn? What areas do we need to grow? How can we find joy in this particular journey? As I have prayed more deeply and sincerely, tried to be more diligent in my scripture study, been more on top of my callings and looked for ways to be of service to others I have felt better. While no answers or relief have come, I have felt peace and reassurance that all will be well. I just have to be patient and let Heavenly Father work on His time frame instead of trying to convince Him to use mine.

Definitely celebrate!

2009-02-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

Eight down - two to go!!! Riley & Kelly have both graduated from high school. YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Kelly officially graduated on January 30, 2009 & Riley graduated February 12, 2009. Congratulations to you both!!!

Riley Kelly

To celebrate or not to celebrate . . .

2009-02-12T16:16:00.001-08:00

As previously mentioned Riley & Kelly are turning 18 - tomorrow in fact. I am uncertain whether or not this is something to celebrate. We have been listening to the "when I am 18" speeches for weeks if not months now so I'm sure that the rollercoaster ride is about to commence. Since they are number 7 & 8 in line to turn 18 you would think I'd have this down, but I am not looking forward to watching two more navigate the minefield of young adult life. We are taking odds on how long it will take before they realize that turning 18 does not mean total freedom from responsibility but in fact the exact opposite as we move from the manager role to the consultant role and they begin to take responsibility for their lives. Anyone want to step in and oversee this process for the next few years? We'll take them back when it's over!

Amazing people

2009-02-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

I am truly blessed and surrounded by amazing people. Kelly really wanted an 18th birthday party which Joe nor I were up to planning and carrying out so our trusty live in helpers (Brian & Katie) took the reins and put together a Survivor themed party for the girls. I am always blown away by Katie's talent and dedication to anything she works on. She made an amazing Tiki mask cake, shopped at every party store in the region for tiki torches and other Survivor theme items, went online and found a variety of games for the kids to play as well as created an invitation with the Survivor logo on it. Brian took the reins in the kitchen and made kabobs, and virgin pina colada's, and strawberry daquiries. We were all amused when in the middle of the party Kaitlin asked "are these virgin drinks?" No Kait we are getting you all drunk! They planned the party for the weekend before their actual birthday so they could have the traditional family dinner on their day. Everything was geared around being outdoors - but mother nature took control and provided some much needed moisture for two days. I was in favor of leaving it outdoors - it was Survivor after all - but I was voted out as no one else wanted a bunch of wet muddy unhappy girls & guys on their hands so the party was moved indoors. Despite some party crashers, some jumping on the couch (yes the guests were 17 & 18) and throwing the candy from the pinata hard enough that I was washing it off the walls the next day, the party was a success. Thank you Brian & Katie for once again stepping up and making life wonderful!

How do you do it?

2009-02-10T04:52:00.000-08:00

As is obvious by the time between posts I am not very good at blogging! I think about it often but for whatever reason just don't follow through. I guess a part of me still struggles to put things out in cyberspace. It is much easier to talk face to face or to specific individuals by email than it is to just "journal" to an unknown audience. As I read other blogs so many of you seem so at ease with this, how do you get there?

Totally Ironic!

2009-01-29T12:04:00.000-08:00

Monday I got a call asking me to meet with a member of the stake high council on Tuesday evening. So I spent the rest of the day and most of Tuesday wondering what I was going to be asked to do. I have served in a variety of stake callings over the years so I have some idea what they entail. I was trying my best to be positive and feel that whatever it was I could handle it among all the many stresses and challenges that currently exist in my life, but I was losing that battle. On the way down to the stake center I kept praying that I would just be humble and accept whatever calling they extended, at the same time praying it wasn't going to be the cannery again. Much to my surprise I have been called to be the seminary principal at our building! Considering the post from a few months back when I subbed in seminary and had a less than stellar experience I had to laugh at the thought that I would now be responsible to oversee the teachers and students that attend seminary at 6 & at 7am. The previous principal was a really great guy and he has developed a great report with the kids. He has a new stake calling and cannot do both so they had to replace him. I left the meeting feeling a mixture of relief (that I don't have to do the cannery!)and concern over trying to step into such big shoes. Since I am at the building every morning anyway with the kids it will only mean arriving 20-30 minutes earlier than usual and staying late to lock up. There are a few administrative things as well but nothing overwhelming. I was concerned about what the kids were going to say about having to be there early but I am blessed with children who are supportive when it comes to these things (if only they were as supportive of everything I ask!!!)so life won't change much. Hopefully I will be able to get to know the kids and develop as good a report with them as Br. Ackerman had. Life is so ironic at times!

Here Come the Brides

2009-01-21T13:05:00.000-08:00

We're off to a running start this year with two weddings in the spring. Brittney will be marrying Derek Bratton on Saturday May 16th at the Snow Canyon Resort in St. George Utah and Alex will be getting married on April 18th to Nick Balmforth here in the Sacramento temple. We are excited to welcome both Derek & Nick to the family or should I say to the shoe!

Brittney & Derek -Alexandra & Nick

Super Dog!!

2009-01-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

Apparently we have a super dog and we were completely unaware of her super powers! Since it is sunny out today for the first time in several days Greg & Carinna took Tank & Harley to the park to run off some of their excess energy. We sent Kaitlin along with Cleo. Since Cleo would wear out long before Tank or Harley Kaitlin could just bring her home when she got tired. Upon arriving at the park Tank was running everywhere with Cleo on his heels. He bounded up the play structure and Cleo decided that she needed to be in the lead. Apparently she did not realize that directly in front of her was a twisty slide and instead of going down the slide she jumped over the edge and "flew" miraculously to the ground! Now I probably should not laugh at this as she could have gotten hurt but I can't help smiling at the image of my little bulldog running unaware off the top of the slide all the while thinking she was beating Tank to wherever he was heading. I do wonder what was going through her mind when she realized that she was flying through the air with no solid ground beneath her! Thankfully the playground is covered in bark and she had a soft landing. She returned home unharmed except possibly her pride. Hopefully she will reign in her super power and not going flying again anytime soon.

Early resolution

2008-12-21T16:28:00.000-08:00

At the end of November the question was asked in Relief Society - "What are you most thankful for?" My immediate answer - family & friends. As I have reflected on that question over the last few weeks and also prepared for my lesson next week on Elder Worthlins talk "Come What May and Love It" I have been reminded of all the experiences that have come our way this year. It has been a year packed with family trips, moves and additions. Each of these experiences has added greatly to our lives and to our joy. While not all of them have been easy they have all been beneficial. As I study Elder Worthlins talk I realize that I am okay with the come what may part of it, over the years that has become natural to me, it's the "and love it" part that is often missing! In hindsight I can see and love the lessons learned from the challenge but in the middle of it I often lose that ability. So I think for next year that will be one of my resolutions - to develop the ability to love what ever challenge Heavenly Father sends my way while I am in the midst of it. Knowing the magnitude of that perhaps it should be my only resolution!

Shopping or the Zoo, Hmmm. . .

2008-12-07T14:13:00.000-08:00

I realize that I am the odd man (or should I say woman?)out when it comes to shopping, I really, really, HATE shopping! So of course when everyone else is going nuts over Black Friday I have absolutley no desire to participate. I have very strong opinions about the greed and materialism involved and how it is destroying our ability to take a day off and just enjoy our families and express gratitude for all that we have. How many people have to give up their family time on Thanksgiving now just to prepare for Friday's insanity? Then on the news we saw reports of stores that chose to stay open on Thanksgiving just to "get a jump" on the competition. Argh!!!!!!!!!!! Needless to say we were looking for some other form of entertainment to occupy us on Friday and discovered that the Sacramento Zoo would have free admission all day Friday. They requested you donate a canned food item for the food bank as the price of admission but it was not required. So we packed up a grocery bag with cans (there were 9 of us going), and headed off. We had a great time and my faith in humanity was restored as the zoo was packed with families who had chosen to spend time together having fun rather than fighting for bargains.

Kelly & Kaitlin having fun

Riley & Kevin getting in on the act

I think if we look hard enough we might find these guys in our genealogy!

The whole crew

So much for dinner

2008-12-01T19:19:00.001-08:00

Since we now have 11 people eating dinner every night things were getting a little crowded around our table for 6. So we headed off to Home Depot to get oak planks in order to make a new table top that will seat all of us, or so I thought. Little did I know that it wasn't really a table top that was being fashioned but a track base for the race cars. Needless to say the boys are happy and the girls are eating in the kitchen!

Birthdays, birthdays, & more birthdays!

2008-11-30T15:30:00.000-08:00

October & November bring lots of birthday celebrations around here.

Katie turned 29 on October 6thAmanda turned 28 on November 13thBrian turned 29 on November 22nd (yes he & Amanda were both 28 for 9 days) Tyler thought dad was opening his gifts too slowly so he decided to help.Carinna turned 20 on November 23rd Brian & Carinna decided to share a cake since their birthdays are back to back so here is the Princess cake Brian baked for them topped by Carinna's Disney princesses she's had since she was a little girl.

Finding Peace

2008-11-17T15:19:00.001-08:00

Lately I have been feeling down that I am not getting well as quickly as I think I should. Some days have been difficult and discouraging. I have been singing with the ward choir and a few weeks ago we started working on a piece called My Kindness Shall Not Depart From Thee. I don't remember the composer but the lyrics are based on the scripture in Doctrine & Covenants 122 when Joseph Smith cries to the Lord for relief from the many struggles and challenges he is facing in Liberty Jail. While rehearsing I thought the music was beautiful and loved the lyrics but it wasn't until we sang it in Sacrament meeting yesterday that the words really hit me. "I know thine every thought and every care, though the very jaws of hell gape after thee, my kindness shall not depart from thee." How small my problems seem in comparison to Joseph's.
That afternoon I was reading the conference Ensign and came across Elder Hollands talk about ministering angels. He talked about how concerned Heavenly Father is with all of His children and how He keeps a careful watch over us. He sends angels, both seen & unseen to minister and comfort. In another talk President Monson advised us all to find joy in the journey despite our challenges. To make memories each day and have fun along the way. It was a much needed reminder for me that in spite of the health challenges I have a life full of things to celebrate and be joyful about. I should be focusing on those things instead of allowing myself to be weighed down by temporary challenges that will pass away.

Is it always like this???

2008-11-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

I was asked to sub in seminary this week & silly me, I said yes. On Monday the kids were pretty noisy & I finally had to yell to get their attention as none of them would stop talking. We got the lesson started and most of them paid attention and participated but there were still those who insisted on talking during the entire class, playing games on their phones, walking in and out of the class, etc. On Tuesday they were better and I thought things were going to be okay. Greg & Carinna asked if they could go teach on Wednesday. I told them the ups and downs and that the kids had been really good Tuesday so they should be fine. So they prepared and off they went. Several of the kids just would not stop talking, one of them stood up and decided to write on the board. When Greg asked him to put the chalk down & sit down he refused. Greg ended up taking the chalk from him and asking him again to sit down. Greg asked the kids if they wanted to be there and told them if they did not want to be there to please leave so the rest of them could move on. At first they just looked at him like he was crazy and he told them he was serious, if they did not want to be in class to leave. Several of them got up and walked out. The room settled down and those who stayed ended up having a great lesson. Today when I went back the core group who left came into class and then left to stand in the hall. I went out and asked them if they were coming to class today the two girls said they needed to use the bathroom and the two boys left as well. None of them ended up attending class. As we discussed what had happened the day before they excused it as just being teenagers. They hadn't done anything "that wrong". They blamed Greg & Carinna for not accepting that as teenagers they can't just sit there quietly and listen. The regular teacher has a seating chart as some of the kids are problems if they sit together. Not knowing the kids they of course did not sit where they were supposed to be and then got upset when we called them by the wrong name. One of things I asked today was how many of them had sat in the wrong chair using someone elses box. Almost all of them raised their hands. So all my friends out there who teach or have taught seminary, at what age can kids sit and listen to a 30-40 minute lesson? This class is made up of sophmores & juniors who are 15 & 16 years old, can they really not behave for half an hour?? When did being disrespectful to adults become acceptable and at what point do we as adults step in and say enough? Are we expecting too much by asking them not to talk during class? I'm not talking about answering questions and participating, I'm talking about those who are not paying the slightest bit of attention to the lesson and who are making it difficult for anyone else in the room to pay attention. At what point do you call their parents and ask for help? I have been in primary or relief society for the last few years so I haven't worked with the youth in awhile am I just totally out of touch and it's now "just the way it is" to try and teach over the crowd. Are there no expectations that they can be respectful and at what point do the ones who just refuse to be quiet need to be asked to leave so others can learn? Let me know your thoughts so I know whether or not to ever accept the opportunity to sub again!

The whole point

2008-11-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a few weeks since I posted but life has been busy here in the shoe. On Wednesday October 15th we were able to accompany Carinna and her family as she received her endowments in the Sacramento Temple in preparation for her sealing to Greg on Thursday. What a wonderful experience, to be in the temple with four of our kids and Carinna's family. On Thursday the sealing was beautiful. As I walked into the sealing room and sat down Alana came over and asked if I had seen "that row". She was facing the window so I was looking at the window trying to figure out which row of glass she meant. I asked her which row I was supposed to be looking at and she said "that one" pointing to the first row of chairs. Sitting there were Brian, Katie, Amanda, Andrea and Todd. I had made a promise to myself that there would be no tears, only smiles that day. Looking at "that row" I came close to breaking my promise. Each time we take one of our children to the temple to receive ordinances there is a sense of relief and accomplishment. Relief that they have made the choice to be there and accomplishment that they have over come many challenges and struggles to be there. As I looked at each one of them and reflected on their journey to the temple I was filled with joy and gratitude for this gospel. For the atonement that allows each of us to repent and return to Heavenly Father. For the strength that comes daily by living the gospel. For the opportunity to have eternal families. Even though we have 6 more to get there and my parents and siblings were not able to be with us in the room that day I know that we can be together for eternity and that is the whole point, being together as families for eternity.

Expanding the shoe

2008-10-12T13:38:00.000-07:00

It has been a very busy week. We are not only preparing for the wedding on Thursday but also preparing for more toes in our shoe! Greg and Carinna will be joining us while they go to school in the Sacramento area so we are having to do some remodeling and adjusting around here. After spending the first 23 years of our married life living in fixer uppers and doing all the work ourselves I begged Joe to buy a house that did not need any work when we moved to Las Vegas. I was tired of living in construction zones and just wanted to have a home we could live in as it was. Two years ago when we moved back to CA we bought a brand new home that only needed to have the walls painted. Now after a 6 year reprive the construction signs are back. Joe, Brian and Tyler (yes Tyler!)are in heaven.

We have a tandem garage that has now been converted into an office/den/schoolroom. This required the building of a wall in the garage to divide the space from the cars and the removing of a wall in the house to access the new room. When it is finished we will move all the computers and the "schoolroom" into it. We are then building a new wall to turn the "old" loft/schoolroom into a bedroom. Kevin will move into the new bedroom, while Riley, Kelly, and Kaitlin will move back upstairs into the room Kelly & Kaitlin used to share. That will give Greg & Carinna a private bedroom & bath, but it will also mean that the other four kids will be sharing one bath again. So wall number three will be built to subdivide the bathroom. That way someone can shower (or potty) while others use the sink and mirror - hopefully preventing the rioting and banging in the hallway when someone else needs the room.

Part of the fun has been watching them teach the next generation. Tyler loves nothing more than being with his daddy. He already knows the difference between real tools and plastic ones and he'll take the real ones thank you very much! He has been a constant fixture in the garage and the den as they have been working. At any given moment he can be found hammering (this takes some supervision so he doesn't hammer holes in the walls where we don't want them), or "drilling" (he hasn't caught on yet that the drill & saw are not plugged in when he has them). It takes great effort but he tries to pick up the saw, and even climbs the ladder to give Papa Joe the tools he needs. Needless to say Mommy & Gran watch with laughter and some trepidation as he learns new skills. Despite once again having everything in my house coated with drywall dust, I am so grateful to have men in my life that can do all the work themselves. I am even more grateful that they enjoy doing it.

Life in the shoe is good!

The Happy Couple

2008-10-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Greg & Carinna since they did not include one in their announcement. It is hard to believe the wedding is next week! We feel very lucky as each new member comes into the family. I told Joe that with 10 kids eventually one of them is going to bring someone home that we don't click with but so far all is well!

Thank You Andrea & Brian!!

2008-10-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

I can finally send out my blog info to friends & family now that my kids have helped me make it more atractive! Brian helped me learn how to post pictures, hopefully I won't forget! Andrea helped get the background up and the title posted as well as font changes & color. THANKS. Aren't adult kids great!

Long Journey

2008-10-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

So this is one of those times when you feel like you should do something that you aren't really crazy about but know you have to do. I have been putting off this particular post as it strikes right at the heart of why I struggle to journal or blog. I have a hard time writing down personal things and don't always want anyone else to have access to my thoughts but I keep having the impression that I need to share this so here goes.
Back in July shortly after Brian & Katie arrived we found out that I was severly anemic and would have to be resting as much as possible. No lifting (try that when you have a 14 month old grandson lift his arms up to you!), no cleaning (okay so that one isn't as hard as the last one), no doing anything that was not absolutely necessary and laying down as much as possible(which ended up being MUCH more than I thought possible). It started out as a 30 day thing but quickly expanded into a 60-90 day thing and is now looking like a 4-5 month thing. I really struggled for the first couple of weeks. Katie and I had a conversation one day about obessive compulsive disorder and addictive personalities and how each of us at different times and in specific circumstances may qualify as obsessive. Thinking about that conversatin I realized that I have a very deep seeded sense of responsibility, if I think something is my responsibility I cannot let someone else handle it. My own version of being obsessive. I tried my best to hang on but found myself rapidly getting worse so I finally gave in and let Brian & Katie take over. This may seem minor but considering all that they ended up having to deal with it is a major undertaking. Riley, Kelly & Kaitlin do online school from home, and Kevin does traditional home school which meant daily supervision of lessons and internet use not to mention overseeing and correcting homework for all of them. It also meant that Katie became the new "PE teacher" as I could no longer go on walks with them in the mornings. Brian became the designated chef - since he is a gourmet cook there were few complaints and we are thinking of holding him hostage even after they are on their feet and can leave the shoe. They have both been chauffer and subsitute parent as Joe has had to work very long hours overseeing major construction at the plant the last few months. Along with all of this they have been trying to set up a photography business, find employment for Brian, oh yeah and did I mention they have a 17 month old son to care for? None of that even includes the class Brian is trying to finish, Katie going back to Utah one week a month to do her photography assignments for the magazine, 4 dogs, 1 cat, and a tank full of fish that need looked after, as well as overseeing all the housework, yardwork and the never ending "to do" list around the house. Last but not least helping plan a wedding dinner for Greg & Carinna. Thank heavens Katie is so talented!
So now it is October and I am slowly getting back into life. I have learned several lessons during this time. 1.Don't take your health for granted. I have been anemic in the past but nothing like this. There have been days when I literally could not sit up. It made me recognize how fortunate I have been to be healthy all my life. 2. The world will not fall apart if I let someone else handle something that I consider my responsibility. Brian & Katie have been amazing as they stepped right in and ran the house for me. 3.No matter what they say teenagers need their parents. I have to make sure to spend time with each child and stay connected to their life no matter how I am feeling. Kelly was starting to feel like she had lost both of her parents with me down & Joe so busy with work. Thankfully she was able to tell us how she felt and we made adjustments so she could spend time with each of us. 4. Grandchildren are a choice experience. Many days Tyler made me smile and laugh when it seemed there was nothing to smile about. 5. Daughter-in-laws and mother-in-laws really can get along! 6.Most important of all my Heavenly Father is aware of me daily and knows exactly what I need and when I need it. I have felt His hand often during this time. While I had hoped and prayed for a quick resolution to this He has had other plans. I have had to learn patience with myself and allow myself the "time off" to heal. I have had to be humble enough to accept help and allow others to offer service when I am used to being the one serving. I have more compassion for those with chronic health problems. While the journey isn't over and I'm sure there are many more lessons to learn, it is getting easier. I am thankful for each day that I feel good and grateful that I am aware that I have a loving Father in Heaven to look after me.

Perfect Picture

2008-10-02T22:59:00.001-07:00

Several weeks back (yes I know this shocks all of you that something happened that long ago and I still have not added it to this up to date blog!) we headed down to Dinky Creek to camp with Brian, Katie, Tyler, Kelly, Riley, Kaitlin, Kevin and all four dogs. On the way there we drove past a real estate office that had a giant shoehouse for it's sign. Katie thought it would make the perfect title picture for my blog but we had already passed it and being so excited to actually be out of the house and headed for nature we didn't stop. So two weeks ago (yes again we did something and it is just now being added) when we headed down to the central coast for Carinna's bridal shower we stopped and took some pictures of it and it is now the proud banner of our blog. Since Brian, Katie, Tyler, Tank (the boxer), Harley (the Boston Terrier who thinks he's a bulldog), and Chopper (the cat) have moved in with us and Greg and Carinna are soon to be here as well, not to mention the possibility on the horizon that Andrea, Todd, Avery & Kaedon may soon head this way, I think the sign on top of the shoe totally sums up our life! Does anyone have a shoehorn we could borrow??

Look Pictures!!!

2008-10-02T22:55:00.000-07:00

I did it!! Not without much frustration on both my part and Brian's as he tried ot help me get it all figured out but I actually got some pictures up! Now I just have to figure out how to edit the layout and picture size better. I tried to go back and put the pictures in a different location but that is still eluding me!

Weekend Away

2008-08-19T21:20:00.000-07:00

Okay so now that I actually got a post to submit lets see if I can do two in a row! At the end of July Kevin was gone to scout camp and Riley, Kelly & Kaitlin were on a pioneer trek, so Joe and I took a much needed mini vacation to a guest ranch.
We went up to Quincy Ca to the Greenhorn Guest Ranch and relaxed for a couple of days. We went horseback riding on Thursday and then just kicked back and enjoyed the area on Friday. It is truly a beautiful place. The ranch usually does full week stays but due to financial need they had decided to try letting guests come for a partial week. We arrived late Wednesday evening and checked in. On Thursday we went on a group ride in the morning. Since we were new to the ranch we were required to go on the walk ride with the beginners which was fine with me since it has been a few years since I rode. That afternoon the other guests who had been there longer all chose to stay at the ranch for the guest rodeo so Joe and I got a private tour of the area as we went out on another ride. Thursday evening there was a cookout dinner and then an awards ceremony for the rodeo. There were two other families there - one with 16 members and the other with 23 members. Joe and I were the only other guests. I can't remember the last time we were the smallest group anywhere! Anyway at the awards ceremony they had ribbons and certificates for all the activities that had been held during the week. Frog racing competitions, kids horse riding lessons, you name it. As we watched the other families for those two days we noticed that there were several cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. Everytime someone in the family left the area everyone gave them a hug. The older kids were taking care of the younger ones. It was so nice to see the love and devotion they had for each other. One of our favorite things about the ranch was the family atmosphere. They had activities for all age groups and obviously the families had had a great time. If it weren't for the $22,000 price tag we'd love to take the whole family up for a week of riding and ranch fun! Thanks heavens there were only two of us staying for 2 days or we'd have gone broke!

Does this really work???

2008-08-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

As you can tell it is going to take some time for me to get in the habit of posting. In my defense I have logged in three different times now and not gotten anywhere! My computer is having "personality" issues so I am now using the kids laptop to see if I can actually get a post submitted. I think I finally understand how to add pictures but since I am on the kids computer and the pictures are in my computer once again there will be no pictures. Hopefully one of these days I will be able to go back and add pictures. In the meantime please just be patient!

The Beginning

2008-07-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

So here goes. I love reading other blogs (especially those about my grandkids!) but have not given much thought to creating one of my own until today in gospel doctrine class. The teacher asked how many of us had taken Elder Ballard's challenge to join the online conversation and I realized that it is something I could do that would make it easier for our family to keep in touch and for those who don't live close by to know what's happening here in the shoe. I am very illiterate when it comes to these things so it may take awhile to figure it all out such as adding pictures but in the meantime I'll try to keep up to date with life in the shoe.