Sentiments by Sophia

weekend stuff

Our weekends seem so long with Doug being home on Fridays.  I'm totally loving it!  The third weekend and I've still not gotten used to it but I've sure loved every minute of it.  Whoever thought of this idea must have had a wife at home that loved having him home too!  Now, Doug on the other hand, is still struggling with the sleep adjustments, but he sure got a lot done this weekend around the house!

A few odds and ends from the weekend...

• Gracieism: We were at the B's hanging out on Friday night.  Their son, J, 12, was messing around in the kitchen, when Gracie, 13,  came into the room.  No awkward silences when Grace is around.  She randomly asked, "So, J, how are you enjoying your teenagerality?"  We all busted out laughing.  She's so funny and very eloquent. 
• Food:  This afternoon, we had Carol and her family over for dinner.  Steaks on the grill.  Liza and Buddy were here.  (Who'll cook the steaks once they move to AZ?)  A while back, Connie had share her secret to a moist steak.  Soak the steak in soy sauce for a few hours.  It flavors and tenderizes it.  OH. MY. GOODNESS!  Today, I remembered to try it.  We all agreed that we will nevergrill a steak without doing this first!  Still a month of summer left!  Try it!  Tomorrow night, we're doing pork chops on the grill the same way, just to see.  MMMMMMMMM!  ETA:  Connie just commented and informed me that the marinade was SUPPOSED to be half vinegar and half soy sauce.  We liked it the way it was, but if Connie suggests cooking something one way, DO IT!  She's the best cook I know!)
• Church:  We attended our new building for the first time today.  New-to-us building, that is.  I couldn't believe how happy I was!  We felt like visitors in another ward, or at least, I did. but it's something that I can get used to very quickly!  I loved it!  Doug and I had gone for an early morning walk and took a peek inside our old building (the one that's in so many of the horse pics that I've shared through the years.)  There's new carpeting, a new cultural hall floor, all sorts of new furniture.  It's lovely, and even though we have to go past this church to get to our new one, I'm thrilled!  I love the newer building!
• Health:  I'm feeling so good and seem to be getting on top of things.   I'm definitely dropping pounds and inches.  The skirt that I wore to church today was two inches looser than last time I wore it.  I have figured out the good things and bad things that I can eat and continue to do so.  Being that most of the "bad" things are the "Good things" that I'd normally choose, what choice do I have but to  lose!  Bonus!
• I can't believe it's August!  School begins in a few weeks.  I'll have a quiet and clean house for half of every day, time to do whatever I please in peace and quiet and without interruption.  But, on the other hand, I'll have to worry every day about outside influences, be busy with homework and routines and miss my kiddos every day.  I love having them go back to school at the end of summer.  BUT.  I wish summer lasted longer!  I love love love having them home!
• If you don't read my blog on the weekends, please take a moment and read yesterday's entry.  It's something that could be beneficial to so many!  Please pass the word along!
• There's something that I'm forgetting but I'm too tired to strain my brain to remember. Zaylee spent the night last night and she's a restless little sleeper.  It will come to me when my head this the pillow!
• Last but not least, I just can't let the day end without saying how blessed we are.  I love our life... family, children, home, community, ward, time, health, testimonies.  Life just is really wonderful!


There is no joy in possession without sharing.

Hero Miles

How I can't wait for the photo above to happen to every U.S. soldier overseas!  I've learned something this week.  Something wonderful!  Because of Doug's cousin's accident in Afghanistan, I've learned about a program that will beneift soldiers and their families in a way that makes me cry!  I'm not a frequent flyer, but if I had extra miles,  I would be donating all that I could to this purpose.  If you have unused frequent flyer miles, you can donate them to the families of the soldiers who've been wounded in the war so that they can travel to visit their dads, sons, brothers while they are recouperating in stateside hospitals.  Family visits help these wounded soldiers immensely in their recouperation.  I saw a news story a few weeks ago about a man who'd traveled his millionth mile on an airline.  I imagine he's accumulated a few frequent flyer miles.  What a great way to see that they get put to use!  Here's a link for details.  I've not done it myself, because like I said, I'm not a big traveler and have never accumulated ski miles.  So, the next best thing that I can do is spread the word.  Check this out and do a good deed today!

Do good and care not to whom.

 

Got a couple of hours to spare?

 Previously posted in August 2006....

We are, no doubt, a movie-buff family! While packing for our little get-way, I thought of a few of my movie lists:

 

Homeward Bound
Milo and Otis
The Gods Must Be Crazy 1, & 2 (Doug's all-time favorite movies and most people have never heard of them.)
Everafter
Holes
Back to the Future
Turner and Hooch
Shrek
Big  (NOT a kids movie, surprisingly enough)

 For romance:
French Kiss
You’ve Got Mail
Somewhere in Time
The Notebook
While you were Sleeping
The Mirror has Two Faces
Gone with the Wind
The Bridges of Madison County
First Knight
The Wedding Planner
Bird on a Wire

 

For a good escape:

Jaws
Sixth Sense
Chocolate
Chicago
Grease
Forrest Gump
Phantom of the Opera
Titanic
Shall we Dance?
Shawshenk Redemption

For a great laugh:
Seems Like Old TimeS (seriously, buy this movie)
Overboard
How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days
Ghostbusters
Tootsie
Housesitter (Doug hates it because it has so many lies!)
Christmas Vacation
Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (Okay, I know that it shows my weaker intelligence, but it’s hysterical! Excellent, dude!)
Multiplicity
Mrs. Doubtfire
What’s up, Doc?
 

The Worst Ever:
War of the Worlds
Criss Cross - Goldie Hawn
Artificial Intelligence
Ishtar
Sophie’s Choice ( I was traumatized by the ending. HATED it.)
The Golden Child

Most Intense Jump Scene kind of Movies I’ve ever seen: (I don’t do blood and gore and can only count the few R rated movies I’ve ever seen, so it’s not the average list.)

Jaws
Sixth Sense
Sleeping with the Enemy
Psycho
The Ring (You couldn’t pay me to watch it again.)
Cape Fear (the Robert DeNiro version... I’m still scared!)
What Lies Beneath
the Omen (from the 70s, I don’t watch that kind of stuff anymore.)

If you haven’t seen a good movie lately, go out and rent:

Field of Dreams
Bird on a Wire
Romancing the Stone
Groundhog Day
Regarding Henry
Oh, Brother, Where art Thou? (Sorry, Carol, we still love it!)
It Happened One Night (Clark Gable’s other best movie)
Terms of Endearment (buy a box of Kleenex)
Philadelphia (Tom Hanks at his very, very best)

I hope that this list either brings a good memory or gives you something to do tonight! And my quote for the day is to give you a smile! Have a great day!

Avoid fruits and nuts. You are what you eat.  - Jim Davis

 

important stuff

I had a great day and was feeling so good!   Then, my mail lady delivered my Strut game! I was really ready to play! So, I decided to have a game night, made a few calls and the gals that I got in touch with at the last minute,came to play.  It's been far too long!  I've been asked several times over the past few months when my next party/gathering was.  For several reasons, I just haven't felt like the party gal that I've always been.  But, recently. after much thought and prayer, and my health improving, I've decided that it's time to be myself again!  As simple as tonight was... cards and treats... we had a great time and I am thrilled to be "back in business".  Tonight, game night.   Two weeks from now, a bridal shower.  A few weeks from now, a back to school breakfast for my stay at home mom friends...and then, oh my gosh... the holidays will be upon us!  Life is good!

Tonight, while playing, one of the gals, Nikki, said, "I heard a cool story this week..." and she began to tell this story about some boys who are serving in Afghanistan, who drove upon a bomb that detonated.... and the more she shared, I realized that she was telling the story of JC, Doug's cousin.  It's a small world!  JC is currently in San Antonio and is doing well.  He will not be returning to the war.  YAY!  I'd love to say that for every soldier over there today, and I hatethat this is the way that some of our boys, "get to" stay home.  But, from what we understand,JC is past the "life threatening" stage,a miracle.  Continued prayers for JC Corbridge are appreciated!

 
I laughed so hard at myself this morning.  I'd decided last night to reset my tablescape for August. When I went in the living room to do it this morning, I couldn't make myself take the July table apart.  I have enjoyed this patriotic table all month, and remember, it was the one I'd dreaded to do because the Red,White & Blue with my pumpkin walls scared me to death.   I went into the living room and decided to wait a few days.  Then, I went back five minutes later to start and decided to wait again.  I did this for over an hour.  Then, I started to laugh. I said, out loud,  to myself, "If this (deciding whether or not to reset a table) is the biggest issue in life today, then my life is pretty good!"  And it is!!  Connie called a bit later and when I told her, she laughed as hard as I did...then did her share of teasing.  I thought about this little laugh all day long.  Honestly, we have been blessed with so much in this life.  If I took the worst of my issues, they'd still be a gazillion times so much better than so many others.  No brag, just fact.  Even in the worst of moments, we have nothing to whine about!   Life really is good.

You won't be happy with more until you're happy with what you've got.

Ten in ten on Thursday...

 

1. I'm sleepy!  Tonight, the goal is 11:00 bedtime.
2. This means a very short blog entry today!
3. Bought my tickets and rented the car for North Carolina!
4. 48 days till I see my dad again!
5. I'm hosting a shower!  It's been forever since I've entertained.
6. August tablescape is getting done early!  Tomorrow!  Can't wait!
7. I can't believe it's almost August!
8. Our tomatoes are finally growing.   Still very green, but growing!
9. I'm feeling so much better with this restricted diet.  Whodathunkit?
10. At 4:00, it's the weekend for us! LOVE IT!

Life is good!

Don't smother each other.
No one can grow in the shade.

a few thoughts

 

I love this shot of Gracie at girl's camp.  I haven't mentioned many of the details but she had the time of her life.  She came away from camp being called "Mouse" because she was the tiniest, which she loved.  Since camp, she's done her hair a little more teenagerish, she ties her t-shirt at her waist like they did at camp and she picked up some new little catchphrases, which I know were camp slang.  It's always interesting to see how quickly kids change into teens when they spend a week away from home and with their peers.  So far, no changes that I haven't enjoyed watching.

Strut.... I've got to say that this game has been on my brain for the past few days.  This morning, I was able to buy it from the from the originator and was actually able to speak to the man who created the game.  We chatted for about 20 minutes.  What a nice guy!  He said that the game took over 15 years to originate.  I'm totally serious about this... it's a fun game and it's a great game to help your kids with math and quick thinking.  It's a must have in the family game closet!  Here's the link to get one for yourself.  It was $19.50 with shipping.  I'm excited because we'll be playing Strut with the B's this weekend, for sure!

Polygamy...  Many of my blogging friends have asked me questions about the LDS faith over the years.  I've always been open book about our faith and beliefs.  I just want to make it known that if an LDS person practices polygamy, he/she will be excommunicated from the church. We do NOT practice polygamy.   I think that this whole Warren Jeffs thing is vial and disgusting.  I hate when  refers to the "mormon-sect polygamist Warren Jeffs".  He started his own sect, the FLDS.  F is for Fundamentalist.  NOT LDS.  Mitt Romney is LDS.  Donny Osmond is LDS.  Gladys Knight is LDS.  I am LDS.  Warren Jeffs is not.  Enough said about that.

School begins in less than a month!  YIKES!  I'm not ready... in any way yet!

 You'll always miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

abbracadabra

Tonight, Doug and I attended the viewing of an old friend, Dorothy Riley.  Old friend, as in a friend for the past 25 years.   As I read her obituary, when we got home from the ranch, I realized that she was an "old" friend in years as well.  Dorothy was 84.  I was shocked to read this because I met her when she was almost sixty and she's always been sixty to me, for all these years.  Standing there at her casket, I can honestly say that she didn't look much older than she did when we met while Liza was still in diapers. I adored this woman.  She was exemplary in so many ways.  A great mother, wife, neighbor, friend. 

As Doug and I stood in line at the mortuary, we visited with many "old" friends, from the ward that we had lived in and loved so much all those years ago.  We saw people that we've seen only once or twice in the past two decades.  Many had aged greatly.  Some well.  Some, not so well.  But, it was like coming home to them all.  As we visited with Paul, Dorothy's husband, I told him how much we've always loved them both.  Paul, who was our previous bishop when I was thirty years old, said to me, "Why did she have to leave me here alone?"  I assured him that it was just like Dorothy to go ahead and get things ready for him on the other side.   He will sorely miss her.  It was interesting, as Doug and I walked out, I commented that Paul will be lost without Dorothy by his side.  Doug said, "No more than I would be lost without you." 

And it hit me.  Holy cow!  We're over fifty.  The twenty five years that have gone by since we were neighbors with the Rileys again would make Doug and I in our mid to late 70s.  We need to make the most of the time that we have left!  It was a calm reminder that our mortality on earth is limited and how important it is to make the moments count.   Enough said about that.  But, I had to say it again.

• As I'm sitting here typing away, I'm listening to the fireworks go off outside. Today was Utah's official state holiday to celebrate the arrival of the pioneers back in1847.  As the fireworks were going off, in every direction of the house, there was a little shake.   We had a 3.8 earthquake, that centered in Preston Idaho, just 20 miles north of us. 
• Thanks for the concern about Kelly.  This has been a nightmare issue for her.  First, all of the issues were on the left side, but yesterday and the last two emergencies were on the left.  She had a rough day today but felt better by evening.  Again, my suggestion is to get rid of the other one and let this thing be an expensive lesson learned. 
• Liza is packing.   Enough said.
• The highlight of my day was tending Zaylee.  ZJ pretty much keeps her entertained every minute of every day.  Today, they were hysterical.  At first, Zaylee came upstairs with Zeej dressed like wizards.  Zaylee was trying to say "Abbracadabra" only it came out as the most tongue twisted words I've ever heard.  We laughed out loud.  I thought that they were playing Harry Potter, until a minute later, Zaylee came upstairs dressed like SpongeBob, then an indian squaw,   They were in the costume bin, having their time of their lives.  Too funny!  Here's a video after she learned to pronounce the "big word" sorta and a few pix....

 

 

 

 

 

Joy is untouched by circumstance.

our favorite weekend of the year!

 
We're home!   The Corbridge Reunion was just perfect!  Everyone had a blast, as always.  This was the first year that we have had the tent trailer to take along.  It was ideal!  Buddy had to work all weekend, so we were able to have Liza all to ourselves.   Not that I don't adore Buddy,but this was the highlight of my summer... Liza all to myself!  SO NICE!  She spent a lot of the time in the trailer with me (my body was not cooperating at all most of the weekend), playing a new game and just hanging out together!  I was so grateful to have Liza to myself because of the fact that I just stayed put.  Doug and the kids rode horses and kayaked in the river and enjoyed the hayride (which I heard was one of the best ever, and I had to miss it!) I gave Doug my camera for the weekend.  He didn't take many photos and the few that he took weren't that great, but hey, beggars can't be choosers, right?

 
A few random thoughts about the whole weekend:

• We hadn't been home for an hour when Kelly sent me a text.  I had a few friends ask if I was going to post it on the blog.  NOT.  Along with the text, that said she was in major pain, was a photo, which is the reason I'm not sharing.  Let's just say that one of Kelly's enhancements is no more.  It had to be removed in the ER this afternoon because of the staff infection from the doctor's last little attempt to make things right.  Quite frankly, I'm feeling like this doctor needs a lobatomy and Kelly needs a refund.  She's got scars everywhere from all of his attempts to make things right.  AND the plastics surgeon from our valley, who did the work tonight, could only remove one, because it was emergent.   Please pass Kelly getting rid of the other, as well, and chalking this up to experience.  It won't happen, but a mother can wish, can't she?  Enough said. SIX surgerical procedures later.
• The highlight of my ranch time with Liza was playing a new game called "Strut".  It's a dice/card type game with 20 dice that you have to roll and try to come up with random combinations, assigned on the cards that have chickens on them.  Very very fun game.  I came home and went straight to Amazon to order my own.  They don't carry them!  I neeeeeeeed this game!
• The best part of the actual reunion was the famly meeting, which we have on Friday evenings.  Rather than the formal program, that I thought was going to happen, there was an impromptu evening of memories of the ranch, with the entire family (over 120 of us) there.  There was laughter and tears.   Lots of laughter.  The thing that was most impressive to me was that in every situation, there were instances where prayer had played an important part of the story. Doug's family always amazes me and I feel it an honor to be called a Corbridge.  This is something that I can't put into words, but these people are truly amazing and a gift in my life.   Enough said about that.

• Gracie had the time of her life at her girls' camp  The whole experience sounded awesome.  She was thrilled about her "leap of faith" (zipline experience), which sounded scary but fun!  I was most excited to hear every detail, but my favorite thing was that she'd talked 20 minutes before she mentioned the fun stuff about the spiritual experience that it had been for her.  I was so grateful for her safety and the fact that she "got it".  She definitely matured a bit during the week with older girls.  It's still hard for me to imagine the babes growing up so so quickly! 
• I've GOT to find that game!  Enough said!

A crazy busy week... catching up on laundry after a few days at the ranch... planning a bridal shower for my new niece-in-law...school shopping...and hopefully, some casual summer fun!  Life is good!

If you treat an individual... as if he were what he ought to be and could be,
he will become what he ought to be and could be.

ranch

 

 

Appreciative words are the most powerful force for good on earth!

girls camp...the end

 

squeak or squawk?

After yet anotherfrustrating experience at our local Walmart,  I made a comment on Facebook about it and got some equally frustrated opinions and thought that someone needed to know that I'm not alone in my feelings.  Yesterday morning, I called to let the manager know just how aggravating this store is.  The local store manager never came to the phone.  After seven minutes, I hung up and called the corporate customer service line.  Last night, the store manager called me.  He asked me to share some of my experiences, which I did, including that one friend had commented on my Facebook post that they call it "Nasty-Mart".  I think he really listened. He took note and promised some change. We'll see what happens.

I believe in letting a business know, kindly, when they are having issues.  How else can they fix the problem?  On the other hand, I believe in saying, "Good job!" , as well. 

Yesterday, the regional manager of Chili's was in town while Denise and I were having lunch.  I knew that he was coming and made a point of getting up and saying hello, then telling him how much we appreciated the Logan Chili's team's great service.  He surprised me by giving me two $20 Chili's gift certificate for my positive feedback.   Cool beans! 

I didn't tell the manager this to get something free,  just like I didn't call Walmart, looking for anything.  I just believe that a business needs to know how they are doing, when they are doing great or poorly.  How else can you fix a problem if you don't know a problem exist?  Years ago,  I asked to see the manager of a restaurant because we'd had such outstanding service from our server that night.  He came to our table and when I said, "This service has been AMAZING!  Thank you!"  He looked at me and said, in a most cranky voice, "You called me to your table for that?"  If he treated a guest that way, I could only imagine how he treated his servers.  Hmmmm, they were out of business about four months later.  I wonder why?

Communicating when there is a problem makes a difference.  I don't mean just in a store or business.  Recognizing the good, in relationships, brings much better resultsevery time.  It's also important to acknowledge "issues", and  if done in a kind and solution-seeking fashion, can make all the difference in the world.  We can be a squeaky wheel without screaching!  With the babes, if I make a comment on how great one of them does something,  I've noticed that I'll see an improvement in the others, as well, because they love that same kind of recognition. If they are lacking in an area, recognizing it, then asking "How can we do this better?" or teaching a better way without criticism is a much better way of motivating them to make that change on their own without the nagging.

I've been blessed to be married to a man who's gifted at praising loudly and blaming softly.  He makes everyone feel important and special, and when there's a problem, he is never condescending or condemning.  A few months ago, I observed Doug's cousin standing at the side of his mother's casket. As people walked through the line to offer condolences, I was touched by how he made each person feel so special. They'd come to comfort him but walked away feeling better themselves. This gift that I've observed often in Doug's aunts, uncles and many of his cousins, as well.  I've learned much from Doug's extended family's wonderful attitudes!  It makes me want to be better at it myself.  I'm continually working on it!  Enough said.

No matter how busy you are, you must take time to make the other person feel important.

briefly...

Doctor:  A friend since 1986.  He's awesome.   Doug and I visited with him for an hour and fifteen minutes.  He'd reviewed every test that I'd had and he has some solutions that we will try for the next five weeks.  Then, we'll look at things again and do more testing.  I liked this approach.  Quite frankly, I'd rather eat than pay medical bills.  The worst part of the visit is that I'm now under doctors orders to drink no pop.  I've not drank Diet Coke since December.  But, I've had my fair share of Pepsi.  No more.  This isn't a problem, it's just not fun.   But, then neither is being in so much pain. I'll do what I've been asked to do.

Camp:  Gracie can't come home soon enough!  I miss my girl!  She'll be home Friday after lunch.  I can't wait!  I'm worst than a little kid waiting for Christmas!

Pool:  I've yet to get in the pool this summer.  The kids have been in less than normal.  Weather and so much other stuff going on.

That's all tonight.   I'd fallen asleep on the floor.  Zaylee just called and woke me up.  It's 11:05.  She should be asleep by now! So should I.  Enough said.

Cheerfulness is what greases the axles of the world.  Don't go through life creaking. 

 

 

 

rambling, recipes, rest!

• Audra asked "How is Max?"  Thanks for asking, Audra!  Max is doing great!  He dropped by last weekend and visited for an hour.  Max is Max again!  I love his visits and he assured me that when Liza and Buddy move to Arizona, he'll still drop by and see me.  We heart Max.  His injuries are not visible at all.  He ended up having to have a few new teeth because of the impact, but other than that, to look at him, you'd never know that he'd been in an accident that left him so near death just seven months ago.  His doctors have cleared him for work, for driving, for school, for everything.  He's truly our Miracle Max! 
• Quayd commented this afternoon, "This sure is a busy week, Mom."  It's been crazy, trying to get so much done, on top of catching up on what I've gotten behind on the past few weeks of being under the weather.  (Today, I see the GI doc.)  The rest of the week will be just as crazy as the beginning!
• Today, I did make time to post Carol's three new summery recipes.  MUST tries!  All of them!  You can find them here!
• I got another new haircut today.  Pictures to come.  Shorter, more layers.
• Casey Anthony... Who cares where she is now?  It's over.  Time to move on and focus on something more positive.  At this point, it's all getting beyond absurd!
• I miss Grace.  A lot!  This week may be busy but time is moving slowly!  But, I'm sure that she's having the time of her life!
• The best thing about having been sick for the past few weeks is that my capris are all falling off my body!  In four weeks, we'll be back to sweaters. Whodathunkit!
• Kelly is really struggling right now.  She called the doctor this afternoon and was informed that she has a staff infection.  Um, were they planning on calling to let her know this?  This whole surgery has gone haywire.  I'm not amused.  I suggested that she just have them removed completely and forget about it!  Enough said about that.
• Actually, not enough said.  On Sunday afternoon, after dinner, Zaylee, 2, was finishing up her food.  The babes had gone downstairs so it was just grown-ups and her at the table.   Kelly called.  We chatted for at least five minutes when I said, "How's your b-0-0-b?"  At which point, Zaylee, who was eating and totally oblivious, or so we thought, to what was going on in the room, said, "That's my mama."  A.  She doesn't miss much.  B.  She's heard nothing but Kelly's surgery for three months.  We all busted out laughing!
• I don't like getting up at 4AM but I am loving Doug's for day work weeks!

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

a few ramblings...

Gracie got off before it was even bright and early this morning. She was wide awake and came upstairs on her own at 4AM.  By the time I took her to the church, she was pretty tired and I'm guessing that she slept on the bus on their two plus hour trip to the camp.  But, she was so thrilled!  I didn't let her see my tears when we said goodbye.  But, I did have a good little cry!  It's just not right that they grow so quickly!

Great news!  I called my dad as he was driving home from the hospital that he'd had all of his cancer treatments over the past few months.  They have one more test next week, but so far, every word is that he is cancer-free!!!!  He told me that when they told him to come back for the last test next week, he said, "I don't know why I have to be tested again, I don't have cancer."  YAAAY!  I was so thrilled to hear his positive attitude... considering that when he wanted me to come visit him last spring, it was to "say goodbye".   No goodbyes now!  I can't wait to go and visit him in the fall!  Isn't that awesome!

Doug and I took the Quayd and ZJ out to dinner for Family Home Evening.  I can't believe how many times today I thought about Grace and missed her.  The second photo is of Gracie's Beehive Advisor, Sister McCoy.  Grace just adores her!

Doug's cousin's son, JC, was injured in Afghanistan while detecting roadside bombs.  He has some serious injuries incident to the explosion and has been shipped to Germany and now will be returning to the states for more medical attention.  Thoughts and prayers are much appreciated.  I so look forward to the day that all of our soldiers are back home in the states safely!

Carol and I met at Chili's for an afternoon chat that lasted two hours.  I love our time together!  We always find things to laugh at, to cry at (or want to) and to get excited about.  Today, we discussed a few very tasty sounding recipes that she's just enjoyed.  I need to get the recipes to share because they sound divine!  A fruit recipe, a salad and a treat!  Coming as soon as I get them!

Speaking of divine... Liza attended the baptism of a niece over the weekend and said that her sister-in-law served fresh sliced fruit with sweetened condensed milk drizzled over it and a dab of cinnamon sprinkled on top.  She said that it was heavenly!  I'll be trying that one in the next few days for sure!

I never did get Liza's birthday interview.  We talked for a few brief moments in the afternoon.  I called and sang Happy Birthday, she said, "Thank you!" and then, "Who's this?"  Of course she was teasing but it was a good laugh.  I love this girl!  It's 11:07 and I had to think of her birthday cake in the kitchen, didn't I?

Tomorrow, a bit of school shopping, a photo shoot, lunch with Denise and keeping busy enough to try not to miss Gracie too much!  I did try to teach ZJ a card game today.  She got it, but Speed isn't something to play when both partners aren't equally fast!  Enough said about that.

Last night, Doug and I both slept less than three hours.  I'm going to be a good girl and go to bed instead of having that piece of cake that's screaming my name!  Life is good!

The best of times is now.  ~ Oprah

girls night out, girls camp, cute girls

 

I've mentioned how excited Gracie is for girls' camp but I had no idea just how excited she really was.  The girls were supposed to have their camp stuff packed and at the church on Saturday afternoon between 5 and 5:30, so that everything would be ready to go in the morning at 4:45 and there was no worry about it on Sunday.  Great plan!  So, on Saturday afternoon, the girls were over at the B's playing for a while.  Grace was intructed to be home at 5, so that we could get her stuff over to the church.  (Like she was about to forget!  NOT!) 

At about 4, since we had an hour and all of the kids were at the Bs, we thought we'd catch a nice breezy afternoon siesta in the trailer.  I set the alarm and was out like a light!  (Late night with the girls!) Just as the alarm went off, my cellphone rang.  It was Grace. "Hi, Mom."  "Gracie?  Where are you?  Who's phone are you using?"  "I'm at the church."  Um. She was supposed to be at home getting her stuff loaded to go to the church.  However.  She'd come home from the B's, didn't see us in the house, so she walked her stuff to the church.  Almost two blocks.  With two pieces of luggage and a camp chair.  Alone!  She didn't want to be late!  We quickly grabbed her cooler of treats and her sleeping stuff and headed over to the church!  She hadn't minded at all, walking with all that gear.  She just wanted to be on time!  Too funny.  (I snapped this picture at the church parking lot.)

Today, she's watched the clock, counting the hours, how many meals left to eat at home, how long until bedtime so that she can wake up and go.  Yes, she's excited!  We'll see how she is at 4:30, when I wake her up!  It's killing me, but I'm very happy for her first real big girl adventure away from home.  I'm just praying that it's a positive experience.  She has amazing leaders and there are some great girls in the ward!  But, I know that she'll come home much more grown up.

 

Girls Night Out. A sleepover in the tenttrailer in our own back yard. Kelly had a "procedure" on Friday, so she didn't make it. But, Liza, Grace, ZJ, Zaylee and I had a great time.  Papa Murphy's pizza.  One of the highlights was making treats together.  We made the nummy Rolos on Pretzels treat!  It was fun watching Zaylee help unwrap and count the candies.  She first had the job to lay out the pretzels but she either ate them or tossed a whole handful onto the pan.  Too funny!  We played cards, talked tons, painted toenails, ate M&Ms and made colored teeth, then very late, as we wound down, we had some table talk questions, which led to some very fun and eye-opening answers and memories and conversations.

 

I ran inside to get my jammies on and get ready for bed.  When I came out, ZJ said, "Mom, we need some music."  My iPhone had been playing music when I left, so I thought that was odd but when I went to turn on the music, this photo showed up on my phone... They'd all colored their teeth with M&Ms while I was inside and then taken a bunch of pictures.  Eewwww!  (By the way, what did we do before iPhones?) Good for a great laugh and Liza started talking like Mr. Napkinhead from the movie, "The Holiday", which had the girls cackling.

 
Needless to say, it was a great time.  I wish Kelly could have been there to laugh with her sisters, but it wasn't to be.  Maybe next time!

Today, after church, we had a birthday dinner for Liza.  Her favorites... Hawaiian Haystacks, Wacky Cake, Pretzel Salad and Homemade rolls.  Nummm!  Doug and ZJ ran some pretzel salad over to Kelly after dinner, which she appreciated.  Tomorrow is Liza's 28th birthday.  I'm hoping to catch her at some time during the day to get a birthday interview. 

 

Another highlight for me was just before dinner when Zaylee climbed up onto her barstool before everyone came to the table for dinner.  She had her little doll with her and Liza and I noticed that she had folded the doll's arms and was telling it to "close your eyes", then she said her own little prayer.  She is learning in the time that she spends with us and with Liza and Buddy.  Kelly told me last week that she was "jamming" on Kevin's drums and singing "I am a Child of God".   (A bit inappropriate, but it does show that she's learning.)

 

Zaylee wasn't too interested in cake until I showed her the candles that we were about to light.  Then, she was all about singing Happy birthday to Liza!  Buddy had to give Liza and me a hard time when I got out the camera.  Never a dull moment!

 

It really was a great weekend.  One other noteworthy item... we attended church for the last time in our building.  Due to the changes and growth in our area, we will no longer be attending the Smithfield First Ward building.  Many of these sweet seniors in our ward, attended this building when they were children.  So, this is a huge change.  We will now have to cross the highway and go to church a few blocks away, which is so so big for, especially, the older members in the ward and unusual when there's an LDS church on every other corner in Utah.  I remember driving 35 miles to church when we lived back east.  So, this is not an issue for me.  I'm excited for it.  I always love change.  A newer building.  It will be a fun change.  Maybe I'll feel different when the babes can't just walk over alone anymore.   Gee, Gracie can't even wheel her luggage there on her own again.  ;)  Change is always good. 

Life is good. Family is great!  It's going to be a very busy and wild week.  Happy Birthday to my loverly Liza! 

Remember this - very little is needed to make a happy life.

Girls Night Out...the morning after....

 
The love of a family is life's greatest blessing.

How about a silent Saturday?

Girls night out with my gals.  Details to come.  ;)

stuff

Second week on Doug's new schedule and I'm loving it!  Well, at least on Thursday afternoon, I am!  When Doug goes to sleep at 7:30PM, I'm not totally thrilled but I'm loving it when he gets off work early in the afternoon and when he has Friday off!  

A few quick thoughts on this late Thursday night since we've having a

• Gracie's packed and ready for camp!  I'm going to miss my girl!
• Three weeks till Liza and Buddy move.  I'm going to miss them too!
• Tonight, a sleepover with the girls...lots of fun planned!  Kelly may not make it.
• Kelly's having another surgery on her "enhancements".  Apparently, an infection and a "relocation" that need attention.   The doc may have to remove one and start over.  I told her that while he's removing one, maybe he should remove them and forget the whole thing!  GRRR!
• We have been abundantly blessed this week!  I am so happy!
• We're smack dab in the middle of summer already!  Whodathunkit!?
• Have I mentioned that I love Doug's three day weekends?

Have a wonderful weekend!

How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then to rest afterward. 

camp-bound Grace

Grace and I spent the day together shopping for her camp stuff.  Oh my gosh, I can't even begin to describe her enthusiasm.   We took the list and went right down it, checking things off, so that she has everything of her own.   Quayd has his own, so she deserved hers... sort of a right of passage.  She was all grins every minute of the day.  New luggage of her very own, a bright pink baseball cap, new exercise pants (jammies), all sorts of mini-toiletries... and lunch at Chili's.  She's definitely growing up too quickly for this mama!  (Photo:  Gracie lying on my bed this afternoon waiting anxiously for her dad to come home so she could show him her new stuff!)

When we looked at camp chairs, there were solid green, solid blue, solid red, army khaki... and then there was the bright purple, yellow, lime green striped one.  She took one look and said, "That's me, Mom!"  It cost a bit more but she needed it.  ;) 

My favorite purchase of the day was her sunglasses.  She's never had sunglasses before, other than little kid type glasses.  Today, we went to the dollar store for a few of the final things on the list... rain poncho, sewing kit....  She saw the sun glasses and, without realizing it, was hinting that they were "beautiful!"  She didn't even know that they were on the list and for a buck, the price was right.  I let her try on every pair and she chose the ones she wanted.   I had to laugh because she wore themand the hat inside and out the rest of the day.  Too cute!

We also will finish assembling and packaging her secret sister gifts with a little pizazz for "presentation" in the morning.  She's so excited!

All in all, we're ready (except for some sprite and gatorade and a sack lunch for M0nday).  Gracie is totally ready!  She's counting down the hours at this point!  The girls have to deliver their gear to the church on Saturday afternoon because they'll be leaving on a chartered bus at 5:45 in the morning on Monday.  Speaking of the bus, she's as excited about that as she is the whole camp experience.  I love her enthusiasm!

On a tragic note, two boy scouts were killed in Utah scout camps today. Two scouts were stuck by lightning in central Utah, killing one.  Thankfully, his friend was released from the hospital tonight.  Then, only hours apart, a 12 year old scout drowned at Bear Lake (where Quayd went to camp a few weeks ago, but on the other side of the lake) while taking a scuba-diving course.  Our prayers are with the families and friends, especially the other scouts in their troops, through these tragedies.

Other ramblings:

• Friday night, all of my girls and I are having a girls night out before Liza moves.  Big plans in the works!
• Dang birds love our cherries.
• So glad that I'm not a Harry Potter fan this weekend.  Sorry, Carol.
• Quayd got his orthotics for his feet.  So far, not one complaint.
• Life is great!

But what minutes!  Count them by sensation,
and not by calendars, and each moment is a day.

up!

 
Holy Cow!  What a day!  Carol and I had tried to schedule another lunch date but our plans changed again to something even better!  We took all of the kids over the mountain to Brigham City to watch the raising of the Angel Moroni statue to the top of the new Brigham City LDS Temple.  There were thousands of people lining the streets all over the area to watch.  

When we arrived, we met Carol's in-laws at the cemetery where Carol's husband is buried.  We had a perfect view and waited for over an hour.  The ironic thing was that we'd left Cache Valley with sunshine and warmth.  (I'd even had Quayd redress into something cooler because it was so hot.)  When we arrived in Brigham, it was blowing and raining and very chilly.  We watched for over an hour as the basket with the men in it was raised and lowered a few times.  We guessed it was the rain.  Then, as time passed, people started to leave and the word went through the streets that it was being delayed until after 2 because of the high winds.  Here's a storm picture.  Check out the difference in the sky!  I didn't do a thing to enhance any of the photos.



We debated and decided to kill some time in ShopKo and wait it out to see if the storm would calm a bit.  When we walked outside, we witnessed what I'm calling a true miracle.  The skies were blue.  The wind was calm.  The breeze was totally gone to the point that Quayd was wishing he'd had his cooler clothes back on.  

 
 
 
We drove back to the temple square and watched for an hour as the cage was raised by one crane and the statue was raised by another.  The men in the cage placed the fifteen foot braided copper cable/tube (according to Carol Mikita, the newscaster) into tube inside the temple fennial/spire, then seated the statue on top in it's place and secured it all.  The support cable was removed, the men in the basket were pulled away and the music started playing, "High on the Mountaintop" while the crowds cheered.  It was just awesome!  The poor weather forgotten completely, a miracle had taken place!  Love love love it! 

The thing that I loved the most about it all... years ago, when we lived in Indiana, we came home for a few weeks in the summer and went to see the new Legacy film in the  new Joseph Smith Memorial Building in Salt Lake City.  At the beginning of the film, Eliza, the old woman in her rocking chair tells the story of her life and it began with the raising of the angel Moroni statue on to the top of the Salt Lake Temple when she was a little girl.  I remember the thrill I felt seeing that and imagining what that would have been like to witness as a child.  Today, my own children got to experience it!  AWESOME!  Did I mention that I loved this experience?

A few other quick ramblings:

• Hobby Lobby has Christmas everywhere.  I will not peek until Halloween!
• We're picking Cherries galore on our trees.  The birds are very rude.  If they insist that we share, the least they could do is finish the ones they start instead of taking a bite out of as many as they can.  Thank heavens for netting.
• The GI doc called today.  I'll be putting off the HIDA scan next week to have an endoscopy instead first.  Lovely.  I'm not at all afraid.  Put me to sleep first and you can do anything to me.  Just don't tell me about it until it's over.
• Gracie is only a few days away from her first girls camp.  I'm not ready.  Not meaning packed.  Meaning, "WHY does she have to grow up so quickly?"
• Doug reached a super goal in his Melaleuca business.   I am quite impressed and proud of him.  I love having a hard working husband!

It was a great day!  Life is good.

Joy needs no object. It is our own nature.

aaaahhhhh!

What a fabulous day!  I felt great!  And then Kelly made the day even better.  Perfect!  We had plans to go to lunch but changed the plans completely.  She brought subway sandwichs over and spent the afternoon playing cards with me and in the pool with the girls.  It was delightful!  Mom had made a big pot of something for dinner for us (she thinks that's her calling in life lately and I'm not minding it at all!)  Kelly said, "Save that for tomorrow!  I'm making dinner!"  Mind you, Kelly's never cooked a thing in her life in our home.  She raced off to the store and came back with the makings for garlic and butter sauteed shrimp, grilled porkchops, watermelon, garlic bread (which was the only thing I cooked and I cremated it.  Oops.)  It was lovely!  Quayd was in heaven with the shrimp and the melon was the best we've had in years!  AWESOME! 

Zaylee was a riot all day.  I love that she's talking so well.  She insisted that I get on the tramp with her.  I laid on the edge while she jumped and "touched the sky".  She said, "Grammie!  You're turn!  You jump!"  I stood up and bounced lightly.  She said, "Nooooo, Grammie!  Jump!!!  To the sky!!!"  And so I jumped a few jumps holding my stomach tightly, which she decided must be how you are supposed to do it and started to imitate me.  She is a hoot!  This moment sent me back to 1984 when my own Grannie, Grace, came to visit from North Carolina.   She, in her early 70s, climbed up on my trampoline (a first for her) and jumped and jumped.  She just loved it!  She was so proud of herself saying, "I flew on that plane all by myself all the way to Utah and now I've jumped on a trampoline.  Clayton (granddaddy) wouldn't believe it!  I loved that I shared the memory and experience with Zaylee today, although I'm a much younger Grannie!

Later, I called my dad while she was playing.  The kids were still in the pool, so it was a calm moment.  Zaylee took the phone and said, "Hi, Grandaddy!  I'm jumping on the trampoline!  Love you, BYE!!!" and she was off to play.  Too cute.

Another favorite moment of the day was as Kelly was leaving, Zaylee was holding a bag of ice on her forehead.  Just before they were ready to go, she bonked her head on the edge of the trampoline and had a big goose egg.  To distract her, while Doug was checking Kelly's oil, I was playing the "What does the cow say?" game.  It's always good for a laugh.  Her newest is the llama, which she makes a funny spitting sound.  But, I slipped in "What does Grammie say?"  She answered, "I'm a luvva-luvva-luvva-you!"  Love those grammie moments!  She is just a little joy!  (Even though she screamed for the entire two minutes of a time out that I gave her today too!)   Who could not love this cutie!?

I love this day!

Tomorrow, Carol and I are taking the kids to Brigham City, after Quayd's doctor appointment, to see the construction company place the golden Angel Moroni on top of the new Brigham City LDS Temple.  I'm very excited for the event and think that it will be a memorable occasion for the kids! I wish that Doug could join us. 

Life is good.  It was so nice to have a day that I felt more like myself again!  It was awesome to have Kelly spend the day.  I texted Liza that she needed to call OUT sick and come to join us.  She works for two more weeks and then begins her packing for Arizona, so we are making plans for a few other girls experiences.   Really.  Life is good.  Enough said.

 

Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed.
Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude.

weekend update and good news!

An amazing weekend report...

Friday:  Doug's first day home was spent going back and forth to the doctor with me twice.  We did finally get some news.  It's complicated.  I joked with the doctor that it could never be anything simple.  I'll spare the details but will say that the problem is not my gallbladder and I do not have cancer.  The "C" word had gone unspoken, except between Doug and I until the doctor said the words, as he came into the room smiling.  He said, "Well, I have news and the first is that it's notcancer."   He, admittedly, had some concerns.  Thankfully, they were not to be!  He went on to explain my issues.   This week, I'll be seeing the gastrointerologist and hopefully, we'll get some medication and start seeing some changes.  In the meantime, it was a good weekend and I felt a bit better than I have in weeks.  I even cooked and cleaned!

Saturday was spent in the yard, the garden and the pool for the family.   Liza and Zaylee were here in the afternoon.  We enjoyed cards and watching the kids all playing in the water together.  ZJ and Zaylee are so cute together!  I've yet to get into the pool this summer.  I'm thinking it's about time!

Sunday:  Liza had asked Doug and I if we'd help with her Sharing Time presentation.  The theme for the children this month is about eternal families.  Doug and I and the babes all spoke in their Primary, sharing our thoughts on the temple and being sealed together as a family.  I'll post on the Sisters Dear blog tomorrow, for the first time in quite some time about the experience. It really was amazing.

Our Sunday afternoon was relaxing. We napped and had a yummy lasagna dinner thanks to my mother.  Liza and Buddy dropped by.  I even tried a new recipe of Lemon Pull-aparts.  Recipe tomorrow and on the cooking blog as soon as I have a minute.

It was a great weekend. I'm feeling some improvements and the best part is that I have a more hopeful attitude now that we know which direction we'll go.  Technology is expensive but wonderful! 

It's going to be a busy week... Kelly's treating me to lunch, getting Gracie ready for her first Girls' Camp, doctors and more doctors, adjusting more to Doug's new schedule (which I'm loving and think is growing on Doug), a few other odds and ends. Life is good.  Enough said.

Beauty and motherhood are one in the same.

saturdays in the summertime

 

 

 

We teach our children about life.  They teach us what life is about.

Bask or Wallow

Previously posted in August 2006

I just listened to an amazing talk by Danny Ainge. It was entitled "No Whining". He told the best story, one that I’ve heard many times over the years, but one well worth repeating. Two brothers were completely opposite. One was always as happy as could be. The other was just ornery and whiney no matter what. They had no clue what made either of the boys tick, so they decided to try an experiment. The cranky boy was placed in a room for three days with every toy under the sun, nothing but the best. The happy boy was placed in a room that was filled with manure. Three days later, they checked on the boys and there sat the cranky one. He was pouting and angry. When asked what was wrong, how could he be happy in a room that had every child’s dream, he responded, "I wanted a blue truck, not a red one." They then went into the room filled with manure. There in the midst of the mess was this little boy, just as happy as could be, tossing manure everywhere and having a merry good time. They asked him how he could be so happy in nothing but a room full of manure. "Are you kidding!?", he replied. "With all this manure, there has to be a pony in here somewhere!"

This story always makes me grin! I want to be the little boy in the room full of manure! I thought that I’d make a short list today of my own manure piles and the ponies that I’ve found.

• My parents divorces and marriages were reason for me to want to have a long and enduring happy marriage. So far, so good.
• Having a drug and alcohol addicted father has kept me far away from the those habits and the problems and challenges that go along with.
• Not having a father in the home most of the time and having mom who worked long hours to support us makes me want to be closer to home in body and spirit for my own children. (And it makes me appreciate having my father in my life so much today!!!)
• Being short (5'3") means that I don’t have to put away the dishes on the top shelf and most of the time, I get to stand in front so that I can see.
• I can’t sing in the choir (or anywhere else for that matter) but I get to sit in the choir and enjoy the music!
• My body is never going to be that hot little thing it was when I was in high school, but there’s more of me to love!
• Moving thirty-some times in my life has blessed with many friends all over the country.
• Having only one brother has allowed me to create friendships that are as important as family.
• Being soooooo old that I now to have to wear glasses but I get to wear all sorts of cute little glasses and look smart. (I’ve always thought that people wearing glasses looked smart!)
• Having very little knowledge of my own grandparents has inspired me to be a great record keeper for my future posterity.
• I’m ditzy as can be but it’s given me a cause to become organized so that I don’t lose my head.
• I have sleep apnea and may look like Darth Vadar in my C-Pap mask, but I sleep better than I've ever slept in my life and feel like a million bucks when I wake up!  It also allows me to laugh at the teasing comments made by Doug and friends.  The other night, I was reading in bed with my mask on.  Doug rolled over and said to me, in his Darth Vadar voice, "Luke, I am your mother."  (Thankfully, that is no longer an issue in my life!)
• My daughter’s poor choices and life style has pained me to the nth degree but has blessed me with three more beautiful children to love and keep me young.

I’m sure that there’s plenty more that I could find to add to my whine list.  We all could sit around whining, moping and wallowing in the ugly things in life, but it’s so much more fun to bask in how those awful things have blessed us! The only way that we can lose in this life is to quit! Live it to the fullest, no matter what the circumstances!  Enough said.

Instead of complaining that the rosebush is full of thorns, be happy that the thorn bush has roses.

movies and other madness

It was surprisingly cool and we actually got a little rain this morning.  The babes and I spent the day together in the gallery making a few craftie projects.  Gracie has to finish her "secret sister" gifts for girl's camp.  It's not for two weeks but we are feeling sort of in limbo with all that's going on here with my body.  So.  Better prepared than not.  Photos to come.

When Doug called at lunch, I mentioned that Carol had a change of plans for the afternoon, so he asked me if I wanted to go to a matineewith him instead.  We went to see Larry Crowne, the new Tom Hanks/Julia Roberts flick.  It was cute.  I wouldn't say that I loved it, but I did like it.  A little slow in the middle.  The ending was a bit oddly contrived.  But, it was sweet.  Tom Hanks is always so remarkable.  I didn't like the "dark" Julia Roberts.  I'd much rather hear her fun laugh throughout the show!  But, they were great together.  One "f" bomb.  No sex.  A total chick flick.  Not too many husbands would enjoy it.  However, Doug liked it more than me simply because he is a huge Tom Hanks fan.  I probably won't buy it but I'd see it again.  That's that.

Casey, Casey, Casey.  Everywhere.  In all actuality, I thought that the judge may have done her a favor by keeping her incarcerated for another week for protection, if nothing else.   People are out of control angry and I, honestly have to say that I think she may be in danger of her life.  Scary.  I hope that people will let this die.  ESPECIALLY the media.  It is what it is and we can't change the verdict.  I do have to admit that the lightning strike of the tree at Caylee's memorial sight was quite surprising.  Do-do-doo-doooo... Twilight Zone music.

Tomorrow morning, the doctor.  Quayd and Doug have a lunch date to see Transformers.  Quayd was so cute today. He's been waiting months for the opening of this sequel, but Doug hates going to openings.  So, they've had this on the calendar since March.  Today, he kept watching the clock, wanting this day to end so that tomorrow would come.  At bedtime, he said, "This was the longest day ever!!" 

The rest of our weekend is not going as planned.  We'd talked about having a garage sale to do some dejunking.  I'm not prepared for that.  We had calendared camping with Denise and her family.  I'm not up to that.  We'll see what the doctor tells us.  Who knows what the weekend will bring.  Thanks for the continued prayers. 

Wow.  I just realized that our weekend is has officially begun because this is Doug's first Friday not working. I think I'll like these four day work weeks!  I hope his body adjusts quickly.

That's all for today.  Life is good...even with big question marks hanging over our heads. 

Do not wait for life.  Do not long for it.
  Be aware, always and at every moment, that the miracle is in the here and now.

thinking and a growing boy

  
Just a few ramblings tonight:

1. "Upper GI" isn't nearly as bad as it sounds. 
2. Friday, hopefully, the doc will have some answers.
3. A friend dropped by a surprise meal.  I am blessed.
4. Will Casey walk? I hope she has a body gaurd.
5. Nancy Grace is rude.  Period.
6. I now have two daughters at home who play Trim!
7. Hard to believe our furnace was running three weeks ago.
8. Matinee with Carol.  No popcorn for me.
9. Holy cow!  That dust storm!  Liza's moving there?
10. At 3:00 tomorrow, our first regular three day weekend.  Happiness!

Being in a good frame of mind helps keep one in the picture of health.

 

Not guilty???

Medical update:  The ultrasound says no gallstones.  Today, an Upper GI - lovely.  Next week, a HIDA test, which is some sort of IV injected die directly into my gallbladder... I'm told it's not pleasant and lasts two hours.  Lovely.  Doug says "whatever it takes".  So, that's what we'll do.  I see dollar signs and pain.  I did spend two hours with my wonderful foot zone friend tonight.  Hopefully, we'll have answers soon.

Casey Anthony:  I'm stunned.  ABSOLUTELY stunned by the verdict.  I'm grateful to live in a country where we are innocent until proven guilty.  However, in this case, I think that the jury got it wrong. That's just my opinion, but I know that I'm not in the minority, like the jury was.  However, the jury's opinion was all that mattered.  I do believe that the jury had a much more limited awareness of the facts than the rest of the world, due to technology.  Just amazing, the whole thing.  I do commit to never spend a dime on anything, not even a People magazine, that would create profit or gain as a result of little Caylee's death... nada. My heart hurts. 

 

I do have to share what happened here at home when the verdict was read.  I've been very guarded about the details of this story with the kids.  They knew that a little girl was killed and that her mother was being tried.  We've talked about juries and trials and penalties.  But, no details whatsoever.  They did know that today was the verdict.  They asked how she could be "Not guilty" when everything thought she was guilty.  (They've heard us discussing it.)  Here was my example:  If I caught Quayd sneaking a piece of candy and it was in his mouth, I would knowthat he was guilty.  If I found the wrapper on his bed in his room, I'd have evidence but could not be absolutely certain that it was him who'd snuck the candy.  I could assume and presume and suppose but not definitely.  I'd have to decide.   Once that candy was swallowed and the toilet flushed the next day, there'd be absolutely no tangible way for me to every know if he was the one, even though I found the wrapper on his bed.  That's what happened here. 

After we had this little analogy, ZJ said, "It's okay, Mom.  Heavenly Father knows and now she'll have to face Him.  He can even make thunder.   She's in big trouble."  And that's all that needed to be said. 

On the other hand, I was most impressed with Jose Baez' remarks at the press conference after the verdict.  He acted with dignity and humility.  My heart was softened toward him.  Cheney Mason, however... a very sore winner.  Ugh.  Enough said about that!

No, wait.  One more thing.  How awesome is it to live in a world where we can witness things live and experience things as they happen.  I love technology! 

A few wonderful things about this day:

• I'm listening to fireworks as I type.  I love July!
• I got to visit and catch up with two friends, one who's been traveling for weeks, after I'd been in for the ultrasound.  I was so happy to get out of the house and to feel well enough to enjoy it!
• I called Dad this afternoon.  When he answered, I said, "Hi, Dad!"  He said, "Hi, darlin!  I love you!"  I can not express how awesome it is to have my dad in my life!  He's doing great and should have some tests done in a few weeks to see how the cancer treatments went. 
• Life is good!
  
  Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it. 


 

 

a week long catch-up and another story or two...

Years ago, when I first started blogging, much shorter entries (Liza informed me), I wrote at night.  Then, when the babes were all in school, it was just much easier in the morning, once they were off for the day.  With Doug beginning his new shift tomorrow, he went to bed at nine.  Me, being a night person, am going back to nighttime blogging.  It will be interesting to see the changes in our lives, this being the first one.  He has to be up at 4, which he calls "half swing shift" because it begins so early.  He no likee swing shift. I no likee that the last two hours of our day is usually spent alone, together, with footrubs and head massages.  But, I'm hoping that we can all adjust and learn to love having four day work weeks and three day weekends! So, I'm writing this as I hear fireworks "booming" in every direction and am wondering if his earplugs are helping at all. 

I am laughing out loud right now because I hear the "booms" and the "whistles" and everytime I get up to go look outside, they are done.  As soon as my behind hits the chair in the gallery again, they go off again.  Too funny.  (Reminds me of Meg Ryan in French Kiss, always just barely missing the Eiffel Tower.)   I did just peek outside and saw the first fireworks I've seen so far this season.  Happiness!

 

I couldn't make myself get into the red-white and blue mood until mid June, so I left my May tablescape up until June 21 and on the first day of summer, I thought I'd get patriotic for the month of July.  July, in Utah, not only means Independence Day but also Pioneer Day (the day that the Mormon Pioneers arrived in Salt Lake Valley), so this table will work until the end of the month.  This was the table that I've dreaded because I couldn't imagine my pumpkin orange walls with Red-White and Blue, but tea-staining the towels and flags helped immensely.  I've got to take more photos to post them all on the cooking blog but this will have to suffice for now.  I do love this simple little Americana table, even in my old world rusty living room.

I am going to see the surgeon in the morning for more test.  Today was actually the best day I've had in over a week.  Sweet! Most of my weekend was spent in the gallery, on the lazy-boy rocker, with Jeff Ashton and Jose Baez on HLN.  Not exactly my kind of Fourth of July holiday, but it is what it is.  Doug and the kids, however, enjoyed going to our nephew's wedding and reception, the family gathering for fireworks at Doug's brother's home, working in the garden, swimming in the pool and watching Transformers.  I read, watched the Casey Anthony trial, dejunked my computer and listened to lots of fireworks from inside.  Very casual.  And. I was waited on hand and foot by a loving family.

Here's a few details and catch-up...

Here's what happened to our backyard the first day that the kids went out to swim.  I didn't see that the pool cover was on the lawn until it was time to put it back on the pool.  They wanted to jump on the tramp into the pool, so they thought they'd just put it on the lawn.  Lovely.  But, isn't that a perfectly pretty circle, Mom?  Oops.

 
Here's my favorite barbeque chef cooking steaks and dogs for dinner.  This was the night before I got so sick.  Maybe it was the steak!  Just kidding, Stott!!  Everyone needs Stott as a brother!

 

And isn't Babycakes Miki growing up!  The photo isn't that great because Grampy was bouncing her on the tramp but I'd say that they like each other, wouldn't you agree?

 

Here's Liza teaching me how to Skype.  She won't love this picture, but it's an important moment in history.  They move in a month.

 

I've mentioned, before, the profanity screaming mom next door, who has a teen son and a vicious dog that rented the home next door three years ago. The home is now for sale.  The owners are fixing it to sell it.  Happiness! For three years, I've held my breath in fear that this german shephard would attack someone. It barks non-stop when they are not at home, which is most of the time.  All of the neighbors kids are terrified of it.  The owners of the home on the other side only mow their lawn as close as five feet from the fence because this dog lunges at him the entire time he is mowing.  Doug has fed this dog every piece of leftover meat we've had for three years and it still acts like he's going to eat Doug alive when he tosses the food over the fence.  (I've never heard of that and Doug is a dog whisperer.) 

The morning after I came home from the hospital, I was lying there half asleep when I heard the dog's mean "attack" bark, not the normal "I heard something" bark.  (I kid you not, I can drop something in my house and he barks for three minutes.)  GRRRRRR.  Along with the mean bark, almost immediately, I heard a screaming child.  SCREAMING!!! I knew that the dog was attacking him. I flew out of the chair, grabbed the phone and called 911.  (When I was a child, a shephard attacked a little girl in it's own home, requiring 500 stitches for the child and the dog had to be put down.  It was horrific.)  The child was scream blood-curdling screams.  I called 911, telling the dispatch lady that we may need help.  Because of the cherry trees outside my window, I could only see the legs enough to know it was the homeowner's grandson, who's about ten. 

Finally, the screams and barking stopped.  I called out the window while on the phone to dispatch, asking if he was okay.  The mom said that he was.  The son was still crying.  An officer came anyway.  The mom and I talked afterward and she did say that I'd done the right thing, but thankfully he was okay.  She left and I literally had a meltdown.  Maybe, it was being sick or lack of sleep, or the childhood memory, or just relief.  I don't know, but I fell apart.  I was so thankful that he hadn't been injured seriously.  The renters are moving out this weekend.  I'm praying for wonderful new neighbors when the home is purchased.  Enough said about that.

And last, but not least, a happy thought... this photo represents love from a ten year old to this mama.  ZJ has brought me applesauce and sliced apples every day since I got sick.  Unfortunately, strawberries and peanut butter, I discovered, are not good for the gallbladder (or wahtever it is I have.)  But don't tell her.  Don't you love the presentation!?  I wonder where she learned that?  ;)

 

The good news is that I lost ten pounds last week and I didn't even exercise!  The next good news is that hopefully, we'll have some answers soon as to why! Life is good...even with some funky think  happening inside your tummy.  Enough said!

 When you realize how perfect everything is, you will tilt your head back and laugh at the sky.

HaPpY iNdePeNdeNcE DaY!

Sweet Land of Liberty!

Fireworks, Family, Fun and Freedom

Previously posted on July 04, 2006

Nature's fireworks, last night before what the babes have called  "Boomfires!" since they could talk.

The third of July is our valley’s huge celebration day. A huge fireworks display and performances inside the stadium at USU is held each year. When Kelly was young and on a dance team, we went inside the stadium once. Only once. 25,000 people on those bleachers, the heat, the stifling air. We left after Kelly’s performance and went outside on the hill to watch in a more relaxed and comfortable spot! However, every year before and after that for twenty-six years, Doug and I have could be found on the hill outside the stadium loving it! LOVING IT! The hillside looks like a giant patchwork quilt by noon, with barely an empty space. Not only the hillside by the university, anyplace with a view of the University Hill is peppered with signs of what the evening will bring.

And through the years, friends and family, have grown to know where we stake our temporary claim on the hill. I prepare a feast and have literally fed up to 50 people while waiting in the July heat for the sun to set so that the show can begin! All who pass us by are welcome to stop in for a bite. We bring cards and games, a boombox to listen to the performances inside the stadium, laugh and catch-up with anyone who passes by and stops for a shredded BBQ beef sandwich, potato salad, brownies and watermelon. This night and the annual Corbridge Reunion have always been literally the highlight of our summer.

A few years ago, we had some complications early in the day and didn’t get to claim "our spot". We tried a new spot on the other side of the stadium. Change did not set well for any of us. Doug didn’t care for being downwind and under the fall-out of the fireworks. The babes were mortified because we were so close that it looked like "light speed" in Star Wars when the "boomfires" would explode. I missed being on the entrance side of the stadium where we could see 25,000 people as they walked into the stadium. It was just not the same.

Doug’s brother built a new home just below the stadium and for a few years, had been inviting us to join the family. Not wanting to give up our most social night of the summer, we passed on a family night with a perfect view of the fireworks. After our little "wrong side of the stadium" experience, we decided to take him up on his offer the next year. We now had the babes and it was a chance for them to be with their cousins and enjoy family. And so, for the past four years, we’ve gone to Danny and Alene’s and have a great family night of fun.

Last night, while Doug and I visited with his siblings and spouses, the babes jumped on the tramp, played on the gym set and ran around barefoot with cousins. My 18 year old niece brought two carloads of friends as the show began. Liza and Buddy came after work. Grandma was there enjoying her posterity. Close to forty of us were there on the lawn until after midnight. Not once did I worry about the babes. Not once did we see or hear anything inappropriate or offensive. It was the perfect night. As I was lying in bed this morning thinking about the night, I was reminded that traditions are wonderful things but sometimes we make adjustments and have to make change. I can’t imagine going back to the crowded hillside again. It wouldn’t be the same. Our new tradition should do us well for the next 25 years. I imagine that one day Liza and Buddy’s children will be running around Uncle Danny’s for the fireworks and I can’t wait!

Side note: My favorite moment of Independence Day was as we drove into the canyon for a picnic with friends this afternoon. Neal Diamond’s "America", from the movie "The Jazz Singer" came on the radio. For some reason, both Doug and I looked at each other and choked up in the memory of the very first time we heard that song in the movie. Having  never heard the song until that moment in the movie, the orchestra, the beat of the drums and the lights went up for Neal to sing the most patriotic song of our day. I never hear that song that my heart does not swell! And the memory of the first time I heard it always brings tears to my eyes!  Today!!

 

 

 

Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed - else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die.

 ~ Dwight D. Eisenhower

got dip?

Today, since I've not eaten much all week, food is on my mind.  Right now, I'm concerned about everything I eat because everything makes me sicker.  Good problem, I guess, if you want to drop weight quickly.  Not good if you want to live.  ;)

Anyway, instead of whining about how I feel, I thought I'd share one of my favorite things in the world to eat.  Fruit dip.  I've shared other fruit dip recipes before but today, thought I would compile a few into one post.  Since we've got strawberries galore, it sounds divine right about now. By the way, if you think you're having gall bladder problems, strawberries are on the do not eat list.  Wait, I'm not whining anymore.  Here's a few must try recipes for your favorite summer fruits!

 The first one is the most simple and basic.   Just mix 8 ounces of cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar and a little vanilla.   Soooooo nummy.

Here are some variations:

Use brown sugar instead of powdered sugar. 
Add sour cream instead of cream cheese, but you'll need more sugar.  
Mix 8 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup of sour cream, add the powdered sugar and vanilla. 
Add strawberry jam, sour cream and cream cheese. 

You can't go wrong with these recipes. 

This next one is to die for!  This one is for apples, more of a fall treat, but worth going to the store and paying the high price of apples right now if you love caramel apples.

CARAMEL APPLE DIP

2 – 8oz packages softened cream cheese
2 cups powdered sugar

1 tbsp. vanilla

12 oz. Caramel Apple Dip (usually found by the apples in the produce dept.)

Mini chocolate chips or chocolate ice cream syrup

Blend together cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Layer in a rectangular dish. Top with caramel and then sprinkle with mini chips or drizzle with the syrup.  You can keep your apples from turning brown by soaking them in pineapple juice.  Drain them well and serve with the dip.   SOOOOOO good!

I've also had the above recipe with Toffee Bits (found nead the chocolate chips in your grocer)mixed into the cheese.  OH MY!

 Here's an oldie... I remember enjoying this one 35 years ago.  It used marshmallow creme.   How can a recipe with cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk  be anything but divine?

8oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 7 or 8 oz. jar of marshmallow cream
1 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk

Combine the ingredients in the blender or whip well.  Refrigerate for an hour or so before serving.  How could this not be divine with cream cheese

Another super simple one...it's great if you're in a pinch...

1 jar marshmallow cream
1 - 8 oz. cream cheese

Blend well.  Enjoy!

Any of the above are heavenly.  OR as Doug, my granola man husband suggests, "You could just eat the fruit alone."  My response..."But, why?"

Have a great holiday weekend!  Ours will be simple and quiet at home, more than likely.  I can't wait to share my July 4th tablescape!  Loving it!  Life is good. 

The most delightful pleasures cloy without variety.