Moments in Midstream

Grand Theft Auto

2011-11-08T00:17:00.006-05:00

Have you heard the one ....
How many Mormons does it take....?

We had a great Stake Conference over the weekend. Sunday morning's session was in Charlottesville (about an hour away). Kelly had dropped me at the door to find a seat while he parked the car. We discovered afterwards that he had locked the keys in the car. After wandering around a little, asking for a coat hanger or something, a "posse" seemed to form.
I came up to the car and saw this....a Sunday School President, a High Priest Group Leader, a Branch President and a Bishop...all trying to break into our car. (we will use any excuse to hold a meeting)
A parade of priesthood holders....but no one was holding the keys. ( a little Mormon joke ...humor me here.)
I broke out my phone and took a quick picture. I didn't realize I had it set on black and white, but I kind of like it.

And then...Victory!

The parade even had their own cheerleader!
.....and we all lived happily ever after.

(and Jessie...I have officially blogged again. Alert the media.)

A Little Time On My Hands

2011-03-20T18:11:00.003-04:00

I recently had some fairly extensive surgery. Eleven days ago, to be exact. After spending three days at Univ of VA Med Center, I returned home. I had planned to do SOOO much with my time off work and off teaching seminary. Wow, was I mistaken. I was rather unprepared for how terrible I felt that first week at home. Seriously, taking a shower was like swimming a mile as far as how worn out I got. I hate pain pills...hate the feeling they give me in my head and stomach, so I decided the second day home not to take any more. At all. Which resulted in pain whenever I moved. Sometimes I'd forget and would start to turn over or bend over, and then wonder why I wasn't taking the pills. But overall, it's been a peaceful time. I've slept more in the last week and a half than I have in the past two months, I think. I get worn out very quickly. I'm so happy the surgery was a success and I am being very careful to obey all the doctor's orders for a successful recovery as well.

And now, eleven days later, I'm feeling a little better. But not good enough. Not good enough to organize closets like I planned. Not good enough to organize the storage room. Not good enough to completely clean my cupboards out. Not good enough to take all my grandchildren's pictures and children's family pictures and reorganize them in matching frames that I will spray paint. Not good enough to work in the yard....not even on the porch. Not good enough to pack up Meg's room so Laurie can move in there. Not good enough to take the dog for a walk. Not good enough to even go to church today. I did feel good enough to finally get out of the house yesterday, and my husband took me for a ride. Heavenly Father gave me a gift as we were driving....the "largest" full moon in about twenty years...we saw it rise up along the horizon and then into the sky. Beautiful. But...I didn't feel good enough to walk around anywhere....or to eat anything.

But...I can type. I can write. I can catch up on some correspondence. I can talk with my Mom every day and call my in-laws and catch up on things. I can talk with my children. I can enjoy the Church magazines and scriptures that I love to read. I can write letters to my missionary daughter, Megan. I can write some thank you cards for sweet service given to me and my family by good friends. I can try and finish a crochet project I've had going for almost two years. I can laugh with my grandson, Landon. I can sit with my husband and hold hands and watch some March Madness. I can listen and laugh with Josh. And with his buddies. Oh.....and I can put on some James Taylor and cook banana bread. It's in the oven right now. It wore me out...but there it is...homemade and smelling yummy. Proof that I'm on my way back. And it feels good.

I am so grateful.

Eleven Years of Lubb.

2011-02-12T23:47:00.011-05:00

What????? Did Diane really BLOG again???

I am officially blogging. Yes, after months of ignoring my blog, I have been kicked in the pants and now am feeling bad about the moments and thoughts that might have been recorded. I am making ANOTHER commitment. Thanks, Michelle, for the kickstart. You began blogging again today. And Jessie, well, you've put us both to shame.
Soooo....what to write about tonight?
No question.

It is Drew and Steph's 11th Anniversary today. ELEVEN YEARS!!! Wow. These pictures are from last year on their 10th anniversary. I was able to stay with the kiddos overnight, while they escaped and had some much needed COUPLE time.....minus the kids. I sure wish I could have beamed myself down to Mississippi tonight to do it again.

I'm not even sure if they got out....because Kelly wanted to be with me when we called them...and then it got a little late in the day, into the evening. Kelly told me to just wait until tomorrow, because MAYBE, just MAYBE, they got out for a little while just the two of them, and they don't need a call from Mom and Dad during their celebration.

But I am thinking of that day eleven years ago. A beautiful but COLD day in Billings, Montana. We entered the temple - two families brought together by love - and left bound together by covenant. I will NEVER forget my son's face as he held Steph's hand and agreed to forever.
I gained a new daughter that day. Our family of eight was in an instant a family of nine.

Our teeth were chattering, but our smiles were big and our hearts were warm.

love to you both.

forebber and ebber.

Happy 11th Anniversary
Drew and Steph!!

If the Shoe Fits....

2010-06-09T23:34:00.001-04:00

Taken tonight at 11pm. At my request to take a picture. Zach Williams and Josh.
Buddies. For a VERY long time. And speaking of long....Zach has had long hair ever since I can remember. LONG hair. And this is how he showed up tonight.
I'm still a little traumatized. You just don't shock an old lady like that.

After Josh spent part of the day at the hospital with his dad today, had a piano lesson, hung out with some friends at Molly's house, had Youth meetings at church, had Sonya over for awhile, where they chalked pictures on the driveway, the day just wasn't full enough for him. So, he asks if his buddy, Zach, can spend the night. I said sure. Josh went to pick him up. Now, Kelly is just now beginning to eat after his shhh.....colonoscopy....today. (don't tell anyone). So he gets a hankerin' for a little ice cream. I called Josh, and he said Zach and he would go to WalMart and pick some up.
No problem. Except Josh ran out without shoes to go pick up Zach. He went into WalMart that way, and was stopped and told he couldn't go in. (go figure, right?) So, Josh "made" shoes, and walked confidently in, where he was stopped again. I'm surprised they even noticed, actually...they are quite fashionable, don't you think?

(and yes, Josh and I had the talk tonight about not driving barefoot)

My All-Star Grandson

2010-05-29T11:05:00.006-04:00

My youngest grandson (at least at this moment), David Andrew Hebdon is in love with baseball. Any ball, really, but the absolute winner in his eyes is baseball. Ever since he's been tiny, that's been his toy of choice. He likes the trains, cars, animals, etc...... IF there isn't a baseball around.

May 15, 2010 - I shot these pictures as we watched his big sister, Alli, play her softball game. David came prepared. I love the above picture. Here he is, with a face of determination, seeming to come out of the dugout.

Kimmi and I took turns throwing to him. (well, rolling to him) Here is David in his "I'm ready" stance.

"Put me in, Coach!" (notice how he's holding the glove. Love it)

Intent on the game. David with his papa, my all-star son, Drew.

David - almost 20 months
Drew - 33 years

Steph sent me this picture the other day to my phone. I was in the middle of work at the office, and it made me smile the rest of the day.

Her caption was: "my boy and his baseball....with him wherever he goes"

Just cause....Feel Good pics #4 & #5

2010-05-28T01:26:00.006-04:00

June 2009
I was in Georgia visiting Michelle and her family last June. Time for Toby's 3rd birthday.
We all had party hats on, and went outside to see Toby get on and ride his new "Gator". (pics of that later)
Tate Steven Pieracini - just a hair before turning one, is ready to party! He just plopped right down on the cement driveway and couldn't be happier.
Now, he's pushing two years old and learning a new word every day, and getting ready to be a BIG brother in just a few weeks.
Nana loves her Tater Tot.

February 2007
Shamrock was her real name, but she was always Shammie to us. An absolute snow dog. If there was any white stuff on the ground, she wanted to LIVE outside. I thought she was beautiful when she "squinted" whenever the sun hit the white blanket of snow.
Shammie - in this pic she's almost 12 (and a senior citizen in dog years, but always a puppy when it snowed)
We miss you, Sham.

Feel Good Picture #3

2010-05-28T00:39:00.000-04:00

Just a pic shot at the side of our garage on Thanksgiving weekend 2009.
Everyone was here. Everyone. A taste of heaven for me.
In this shot, my "single" kids at the time.
In this pic: Megan - age 20, Josh - age 16, me-age (cough-cough),
Kelly (older than dirt) and Laurie - age 25.

Feel Good Picture #2

2010-05-27T00:45:00.004-04:00

Had about ten pictures that caught my eye tonight...so I shut my eyes and randomly put a pencil with an eraser against the screen. This is the picture that was under the eraser.
It's a good one.

July 2008 - Hillendale Park, Harrisonburg - Alli, age 5, almost 6

We were at Steph's baby shower for little David. After the festivities, I played with Kimmi and Alli on the playground. I captured this picture of Alli. (I usually call her Alli-Bee)
Love her smile.
(notice the little foot kick. Alli is my girly-girl)

Weekend is Getting Closer!

2010-05-26T23:57:00.001-04:00

I am so ready for a three day weekend! Two more work days, and then the glorious Memorial Day weekend. It will be busy, I need to get a lot done, but I know I will get some fun in there, too!
Kelly left early this morning for training in Richmond, where he is staying at the Hilton near the Richmond Airport. He thought he may have to share a room, but he has a room to himself. He always calls me and says that I should come and join him, and while he is in meetings during the day, I could explore, sleep, swim, read, write, whatever. In the evenings we could be together. Tonight I really wanted to take him up on it. Sounded great.

Josh and I had a quick bite at El Charro before he went to church for youth meetings. I love our dinners there together. It's fun to catch up with my almost 17 year old. I always learn something We share the chimichanga dinner, and munch on the tortillas and salsa. We get water to drink and the bill comes to $8 and some change. That with a tip isn't a bad price for an hour out with my son. Tonight was different, though. We drove separately, so he could drive to his meetings and drive home. DRIVE! Do you hear me??? This is my BABY!! The youngest of six. How did this happen? How is he allowed to drive all alone? Who pushed the fast forward button?

Watched American Idol final tonight. Great show. Would say more, but don't want to spoil it for any who haven't heard the winner yet. I will post more about that tomorrow, perhaps.

Feel Good Picture #1

2010-05-26T00:31:00.006-04:00

Do you LOVE looking at pictures that you have taken, or others have sent you? I love it. In fact, my own pictures are my screen saver and my desktop background on both my home and work computers.

Seeing them just makes me feel good. I wonder how many hours I've spent sitting on my bed with different members of my family while picture after picture comes across the screen as my changing screen saver. We can waste some serious time looking at old pictures and talking about good times.

So...I thought I would share one of my good time pictures whenever I blog.

Today is the first one. Picked out a great one. Random feel-good pictures. Absolute treasures.

Enjoy.

October 2008 - On our way back from Griffin GA, after we visited with Michelle and her family. Griffin was only 2 months old, so we stopped a few times for Jessie to feed him. Noah would take these pit stops as times to play and explore. Laurie and I were happy to oblige. This stop, somewhere in South Carolina, was one of his favorites. (Noah - age 2, Laurie age 24)

Kelly Goes to Camp

2010-05-25T23:01:00.007-04:00

I have been a mom for 33 years now. In fact, come to think of it, after doing some quick figuring in my head, I seriously think I have been a mother for just about 33.3 years plus 3 weeks.

In all that time, I have had many opportunities to take my children to camp. Six grade camp, boy scout camp, girls camp and all kinds of camp.

Last night, I got to take my "big" boy to camp. Kelly went to the RMH Sleep Clinic for the night. He brought his favorite pillow, his jammies, a book and a toothbrush. I got to spend some time with him in his room, and this camp is NICE, complete with a fun, sweet nurse and some ginger ale before going to bed. Except after I left, she wired him all up with electrodes and things on his head, temples, legs, with sensors on his chin, in his nose and on his finger. Then she reminded him that he would be video taped all night. Sleep tight! (He actually slept fairly well, he said.)

I picked him up this morning at 6:30 am, and he did just fine. He was sitting on the step with a big smile and a strawberry PopTart that he was given for breakfast. What a camper.

All ready for camp. Bye!

Kelly got to try out different C-Pap masks in case he needs to wear one. (ok...he's STILL cute)

Stepping Back into the Blog-Mobile

2009-11-16T23:12:00.009-05:00

Hi my family and friends,
All is well. Wish I would have been blogging more. Thought about it just about every day. So much in my mind right now, so much I'd like to write about. But for now, I'm just going to share a couple of things I found while going through some papers.

the first.....from Megan, at about age 9 ~

It's a little hard to read, but I love her little girl handwriting.

It's titled:

HOW TO MAKE MY PARENTS HAPPY WITH ME

(and I'll write them just as Meggie did)

1. Ask if they've lost weight.
2. Keep your room clean.
3. Do chores they didn't ask you to.
4. Feed, water, a take the dog out.
5. Do my chores very well.
6. If they're tired & your hungry make your own food.
7. Don't talk to them when they're getting dressed or going to the bathroom.
8. Watch Josh.
9. If they're not in the mood to cook you cook.
10. Love them.

*******
I just love this. I've always loved cooking for my family, but obviously when Meggie wrote this, I might have just had enough of the kitchen for awhile. #1 cracks me up. And #7 is still true. And she has #10 down pat. She's a winner at #10. As far as #2? Well, we all need something to work on.
~~~~~~~

Ok, this next tidbit is from some daily ramblings I was keeping in my Franklin Planner. This is from Monday, October 25, 1999. Meg would have been 10 years old. This is the beginning of what I wrote that night:
".....sitting with Meg on the couch tonight. Meg says, "Mom, do I have issues?" I asked, "What are issues?" (wondering what her concept of them were) She says, "No clue. But Dad says I do."
**********
And, at the end of that journal entry, I was writing how Kelly was in New Jersey for some training and how much we were missing him. He had called that night, and Josh just couldn't wait to talk with him on the phone. (he was six) I thought it was so sweet. Josh got on the phone, and asked, "Dad? What color hair does your roommate have?" Kelly told him that his hair was black. Josh was completely satisfied. I wrote that "it's funny to see how Josh's mind works".

(And you know what? ...ten years later, it still is.)

~~~~~~~~~

And another treasure found.....again from a six-year-old Josh.

He used to love to draw. He drew his family a lot. And many times, Jesus would be amongst us.

I absolutely love this. Yes, Josh, Jesus is real. And what a good reminder this picture is of keeping him as the center of our family.
(and by the way, I think Dad and I are looking pretty snazzy here)

What are YOU doing this second???

2009-09-09T09:09:00.000-04:00

It is now 9 seconds after 9:09 am. on 09/09/09.

9:09:09 on 9/09/09.

ok...so I don't know have anything profound to say about this, except I think it is cool.

My 200th Post!

2009-07-13T00:51:00.003-04:00

Awwww, Meggie, I miss you.

Love to Megan

2009-07-13T00:31:00.009-04:00

I have been wanting to blog a little about my Meggie.
She has been an absolute gift in my life.
She turned 20 years old on June 24th, while out at BYU-Idaho, and I missed her so much. I sent out a package and called and sang to her, but it's not the same as spending the day with your birthday child.
I am so blessed to be her mom. We have the longest and best talks. We used to do that on my bed when she was home, now it's on the phone. Usually about 12 or 12:30 at night. (hate the time change between Virginia and Idaho, but when she calls, I want to talk with her) We still laugh, fix the big problems, complain about the little ones, (or maybe the other way around), we share the spiritual things we have discovered lately and catch up on everything. She makes me laugh, she makes me think, she sometimes makes me crazy, and she helps my faith grow. She has learned so much, and loves sharing it with me. For that I am grateful.
Her siblings are blessed to have her as their sister. Her daddy adores her. Her friends are lucky to have her as their friend, as she is fiercely loyal. Dogs love her and she loves dogs. Any dog. Meg has touched many lives, and I am excited to see where her life takes her.

She will need.....her family, a great guy, her scriptures, music, a lovable big dog, some wheels, the outdoors, hugs, some hot popcorn with shredded cheese, hummus, feta cheese and turnip greens. (not all at once). She will need sleep, a MEGA alarm clock, her down comforter, some good movies and a comfy couch. She will need her phone, her IPod and her computer. She will need lots of laughter, cool school supplies, some good running shoes, and some big adventures. She will need the Magic Bullet. She will need the Lord and His teachings.
Yes, I am excited to see her days to come.
I love you, my sunshine girl, and here are some pictures of days that were.
Happy 20th!

Megan in the witch costume I made her. She loved it. She stayed in character all night. No matter what. Her face HAD to hurt!

Josh, Megan and Shammie. Playing in paradise. They couldn't have been happier that day. All three of them.

So cute. SO cute. 'nuff said.

More Meg

2009-07-13T00:26:00.003-04:00

Megan and Josh, with their Fourth of July T-shirts. Beavercreek, Ohio. Aren't they adorable?

Megan, Mom and Megan's BEST friend, Shammie. Giving a report about Shammie at school.

Snuggling with Mom. Her Aunt Beth's wedding day.

Watching a RIVETING cartoon with Daddy. With her toys, blanket and Daddy. Good times.

Even more Meg

2009-07-13T00:17:00.005-04:00

Love my Meggie. Always have, always will.

Love this picture. I caught her smack-dab in the act. Grabbed the camera and laughed all day. Even during the clean-up.

Meg was positive that Jesus came to talk to her on a hill in New York called Hill Cumorah. She told everyone. No one could convince her that it wasn't really Him. He came to talk to HER, and she felt special. (and she is)

Strangers? Dogs we don't know? No such thing.
Meg with two friends she just met.

love, mom.

"Can" she do it?

2009-07-11T01:04:00.007-04:00

I have so much to blog about. But it's after 1:00 am now, and I need some sleep. Worked late, called home and Kelly was already home. I asked him what he was doing and he said, "Figuring out what movie I am taking you to tonight." How fun. We ended up seeing the late showing of The Proposal. Before that we hit Penney's and Kohl's. I got a clock for my kitchen!!! I've only needed one for hmmmm.....almost NINE years! (Andrew, I know you are so happy!) and a ring on MEGA sale at Kohl's that perfectly matches the earrings I got there last year on MEGA sale when Laurie and I were shopping. It's awesome when that works out!

I think the movie was kind of "The Devil Wears Prada" meets "While You Were Sleeping". Except for one scene that just wasn't necessary, I enjoyed the movie. The BEST thing about this movie is Betty White. I've loved watching her my whole life. Tonight was no exception. I also think Sandra Bullock was awesome in this movie. But I think she has had WAY too much work done on her face, because she looks so different now. She used to be gorgeous, I thought. What's wrong with aging? I know I look as old as dirt but I'm still kickin' and having fun.

OK....now THAT reminds me of AFTER the movie. Kelly and I were walking back to our car (after midnight by then, and quite dark), and another family group was kind of near us walking to their car. I was talking to Meg on the phone, and I saw a can sitting upright in the parking lot a little ways in front of me. Now, I'm not sure why, but I suddenly became about ten years old and ran (yes, folks, I ran a little) and kicked that can as hard as I could. I anticipated it flying through the air. Well, it turned out to be a beer can, and was just about full. BEER was flying through the air. I can never win. But, Kelly was cracking up. Me too, as I TRIED to avoid the beer shower.
But then, Megan read me a letter she wrote me, which made me cry. I mean I bawled like a baby it was so precious. Love that girl. She will be home in two weeks!

Peace out, girl scout.

2009-07-04T18:30:00.002-04:00

Mr. Magoo ~~~
~~ the love of my life.

Happy Fourth of July!!!!

2009-07-04T08:58:00.003-04:00

Happy Fourth of July!!!! I LOVE this weekend, full of fun and friends and family and flags.
I came across this yesterday, read it to Kelly and Josh, and thought I'd post it on here.

Take a moment to reflect..... (it's from Glenn Beck, and I know at least ONE friend who calls him Glenn Blech (you know who you are!) but please read it anyway, I think you'll like it!

Have fun today everyone.......and be safe!!!

Diane

********************************************************************************
From Glenn Beck....

July 3, 2009

Hello America,

Here it is, another Fourth of July. Traditionally, this is a day to gather with friends, maybe fire up the barbeque and play with kids until the sun sets and the fireworks start. But in thinking back on the meaning behind this day, we must never forget that our nation was baptized in the blaze of a very different kind of "fireworks." Yes, this is a day of rest and relaxation, as well it should be, but this year…I'd like to ask you a favor. At some point during the day, I hope you'll take time to think and reflect on what it is we're truly celebrating on the 4th of July -- our Independence Day. Of course the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4th, 1776 but it's so much more than that. On this day, 233 short years ago, a small group of men dedicated themselves to a higher purpose, an ideal they believed in so greatly, they signed their name to its expression and in doing so put their very lives at risk.

Never has a simple act of signing one's name carried such weight, such a profound commitment. By signing the Declaration of Independence, 56 men stood in direct defiance of the British government. They became marked men, and willingly so. As I was doing some research on the significance of July 4th, I came across some interesting facts about these men. Today as we all enjoy the freedom our forefathers guaranteed us, join me in honoring the extraordinary sacrifice of 56 extraordinary Americans.

Of the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence:

Five were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes burned to the ground. Two lost sons serving in the Revolutionary Army, and two more had sons captured. Nine fought and died in the Revolutionary War.

If you ever feel like your lone voice can never be heard, that the political system isn't set up for "regular" Americans to change the course of history, remember: The signers were flesh and blood, mortal men with a divinely-inspired aim.

Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists, eleven were merchants, and nine were farmers and large plantation owners. They were well educated, smart enough to know that by signing the Declaration of Independence, they were signing their own death warrants. They did it anyway, and God bless them for it.

As we enjoy our liberty on this 4th of July, or any day of any month, we must never take that liberty for granted. Too many have given too much. In the words of the Signers themselves, "For the support of this declaration, with firm reliance on the protection of the divine providence, we mutually pledge to each other, our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor."

Their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor -- I think that's a price paid worth a few minutes of reflection, don't you? But let's not be solemn in that reflection. I say rejoice and share this information with your friends and family, especially your kids. The Signers asked for nothing in return for their pledge, but I say that we show our thanks with a pledge of our own: To remember, to be grateful, and to carry on in their spirit. America is the greatest country this world has ever and will ever know, and it will stay that way so long as "we the people" remember that just like in 1776.

It's US that surrounds them, and we'll never back down.

Happy Independence Day, and God bless America.

Glenn

Our little jessie....at 24!

2009-06-21T12:13:00.007-04:00

Our Jessie turned 24 on Friday. I have had two dozen terrific years of being her mother. Jessie is sunshine in my life. She has so many wonderful attributes. Just a few are: integrity, empathy, wonderful mother, smart, kind, creative, strong, faithful, fun....lots of fun, loves her family, incredibly beautiful, did I say smart? and sweet.
Our sweet Jess. Yes, we are blessed.
Elephant shoes. (you'll have to ask one of my kids about that)

Enjoy a few of the faces of Jessica Erin. Our JessBess. We love you, honey!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Ticklin' the Ivories

2009-06-16T22:49:00.006-04:00

I was reading online and came across a story about this couple, the Cowans. They have been married 62 years. He is 90 years old, and she is 84. While at the Mayo Clinic having tests for a few days, they took time to play the piano together that is there in the atrium for anyone to play. Here they are putting on a little impromptu recital.
Take a listen HERE.

(Watch the hand movements when they switch places.)

I just want to say that I think marriage and music are two of God's greatest gifts.

There is more to this story, but I'm beat.

Enjoy the video.

Try not to smile.

I dare you.

Blast from the Past - 1994

2009-06-05T23:15:00.001-04:00

Sacred Grove ~ Palmyra, New York ~ July 1994

(I've always wondered what Josh was looking at)

Drew - 17
Michelle - 16
Laurie - 10
Jessie - 9
Megan - 5
Josh - 1

I drove the kids to Palmyra from Toledo, as Kelly couldn't get off work. We had a wonderful time together, going to the Hill Cumorah Pageant, seeing the other sights, like the Joseph Smith farm, staying in the hotel, etc.
I am crazy about these people.

Time for Some Sleep

2009-06-05T22:55:00.002-04:00

End of another work week. A busy week with lots of fun things, too. Last night was the Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Music Awards at the high school. I met Josh over there at 6pm. We were there until 8:30. It was so much fun sitting with him and his friends at a lunch table. So many kids wanted to be together that they had chairs just bunched up all around this one table. Josh has great friends in band, and they were so funny. I sat with Bryan's mom, Linda, and Maggie's mom, Robin, right next to our kids. FUN NIGHT! Josh lettered last year, so this year earned a bar for his letter, certificate and medal for District Band and a certificate for City/County Honors Band. I was really proud of him and it was so fun watching his joy with his buddies.

Tonight we went over to our friends, the McIntyre's, for dinner. It was supposed to be a cookout, but it was raining, so it was a COOK out, but an EAT in. There was a great group there. We had lots of fun. One of the highlights of the evening was getting to hold little Katelyn Rebecca McIntyre, almost 3 weeks old, daughter of David and Mandy. She is adorable with a thick head of hair. I held her while she slept for quite awhile. A sleeping little baby is like the best muscle and tension reliever there is.

Then Kelly and I went to Barnes and Noble for a little R&R. Reading and relaxation. We each got a hot chocolate and a pile of books and snuggled into two of their comfy chairs for a little while. Heaven.

But now, it's time for sleep. Not getting up until 7:30! Woo-hoo!
(Kelly is throwing marshmallows to our dog, Sloopy, as I write this. Yep, we do know how to par-tay!)

(3 days in a row....I am on a roll!)

Josh in the Driver's Seat!

2009-06-04T23:36:00.002-04:00

My last one. My baby boy. My Joshie. How in the world did THIS happen?
I blinked, and now here he is, proud owner of a 15 year old's prized possession ~ THE Learner's Permit. I've been through this six times now. It still chokes me up a little. One more step away from mom. But I'm so happy for him, too. I was sitting at the DMV waiting for him to take the test, and when he started walking towards me, he tried to fake it. He shook his head, and I wondered for a moment, because Josh seems to smirk a little when he's disappointed, but he was trying to suppress a big old grin. He said, "just kidding...I passed". And even though the DMV was CROWDED (we picked the LAST business day of the month to go. Yes, I know, real smart) I wanted to cheer for him. He was so happy. It reminded me of each time one of our children would get their permit. It was like the world was opening up for them. And I was there to just help them along.
It was a busy Friday afternoon when he passed, and we wanted to stop by the music store, so he could get an amp cord and some guitar picks for his friend Zach's birthday party that night. He hesitated, but he drove. And he did really well. He must have felt grown up too, because he asked the owner of the music store if he was hiring. Just out of the blue. The manager might be interested when Josh turns 16 in August. He likes to hire his customers, who know the store, and he has seen over the years.
Josh has driven everywhere we've gone since then. He's doing great. Me? I'm not so sure.

These "lasts" are really hard.

Painted by the Master

2009-06-03T21:26:00.007-04:00

I have missed so much by not keeping this up. I will try and catch up a little, but tonight I just feel like posting these. (kind of an easy way to begin blogging again)
We went to Ohio twice in the last month. The first was for a funeral for a dear friend (more about that later) and over Memorial Day weekend for my nephew's graduation (more about that later, too)
While we were there, we went to a Memorial Day breakfast at a park with Laurie and Jeremy. Jeremy's mom MaryAnn was there and it was nice catching up with her. (I've known her for 35 years or so....also a long story) After we ate breakfast, we all walked around a nice little herb garden/pathway built there at the park. It was Kelly, Josh, Laurie, Jeremy, MaryAnn and me. We enjoyed looking at all the signs telling us what we were looking at. I was touched again my the magnificent detail and beauty of His creations for us. I quickly snapped a few pictures. These are the only four I took, and I think they represent what I mean.

Wild daisies - how I love them. I guess I AM a child of the 60's and 70's, but I just think they are about the friendliest flower around. My wedding bouquet was daisies. I am getting older, but daisies still make me feel young. (He loves me....he loves me not....he loves me....he loves me not)
He DOES love me, by the way.

In the picture below, I just love the lingering raindrops. He provides what we need.

These bush roses below were the most amazing color. Vivid and spectacular. Fireworks among the leaves.

And just as we were leaving the herb garden......a little patch of pansies. Deep purple in the center. Like the night sky on a hot night. And such delicate petals. Love the contrast. Such different hues on one petal. That's how we are, too.

Yep, I do love to walk a garden. It's like a walking worship service for me.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

(Ok...so I have officially begun blogging again. I promise to blog again tomorrow night, even if it's just a few sentences. I see you snickering. Yes, you! You know who you are. Well, we will just see tomorrow, won't we, missy?)

Absolutely Bushed.

2009-05-11T23:30:00.003-04:00

It's 11:30 and I have a 7:30 meeting at work tomorrow. Should be in bed, but this is the first I've sat down today with a minute to myself. After work, Josh and I went and worked out. And I REALLY worked out. Well, as much as this old, overweight, injured body will let me. Already my legs and shoulders are yelling at me. By morning, they will be having an all-out hissy fit! But, it feels good, too. And I plan on going and working out again tomorrow after work. Alert the media. Two days in a row, perhaps!

It was a whirlwind weekend, full of ups and downs, both in circumstances and in our emotions. We received the sad news last Monday that one of our very best friends had passed away from a heart attack. I want to write more about that, but it will take me awhile to get my thoughts together for that one, as it was such a tender experience.

The funeral was on Saturday in Dublin, Ohio (right outside of Columbus). We planned on leaving right after work on Friday and getting to Ohio about 1am on Saturday. Well, life had other plans. Our refrigerator decided to take a break from working on Friday morning. Kelly worked with it awhile, with no luck. He met a repairman there Friday afternoon, who also worked with it awhile. Diagnosis: our coil in the back of the fridge is shot. $250 for the part, and $150-200 labor. Oh....and the part is on back order. It will take 7-10 days to get the part in the shop. He will call when it comes in. Oh, terrific.

So, we cleaned out the freezer and fridge, rearranged some things in our little chest freezer, got out the cooler, bought two bags of ice, and filled our makeshift refrigerator. Josh spent the weekend with his buddy, Zach. Yay for Zach's terrific mom, Michelle. Josh had a great time over there.

We left Harrisonburg around 8:30, stopped at 11:30 on the east side of Beckley, WV. The storms had been horrific ever since we left the 'burg. Nighttime darkness, severe storms, fogs and semi trucks on the West Virginia mountain roads. Yep, makes for a peaceful drive. We decided to get some shuteye. It was a great idea. Got up early and got ready and dressed for the funeral, had the motel's "lovely" continental breakfast. (Toasted english muffins with YOUR choice of jam or cream cheese AND two choices of juice...orange or apple. I'm telling you....a virtual buffet! Seriously, the absolute saddest continental breakfast I've ever seen) Drove right to the chapel for the funeral. I will perhaps write tomorrow about that experience. I will just say that Saturday we KNEW we had made the right decision about going.

After leaving our friends, we decided to get the BEST PIZZA IN THE WORLD (Donato's) and take it out to my mom and dad's house and share it with them. They were happy to see us, and we spent three great hours with them, just enjoying each other and enjoying the pizza. Mom always wants to cook for whoever shows up, but I could tell she was grateful that she could just sit. We talked and laughed and I was so glad we went.

We left their house about 9 pm and drove the 40 minutes to Laurie and Jeremy's house. We hadn't seen their new place in Grove City yet. It was so terrific to be with them awhile. Their townhouse is so cute, and Laurie has really done some cute things with the place, and it was fun to see all her little touches there. We played Wii and talked and laughed. Kelly and I slept on their couches.

Mother's Day morning....Jeremy made us all breakfast! A sausage, egg, peppers, hash brown concoction that was TERRIFIC. And orange juice. DELICIOUS. Then we all got ready for church. I loved being with Laurie on Mother's Day morning. We saw so many people at church that we knew from years ago. I had a great time catching up with old friends. Of course, I felt OLD when I saw Jenny Kiehl....who used to babysit the kids a little, and she told me she is turning 40 this year. 40!!!

After church, we went back to Laurie's to change and get on the road. Well, "get on the road" turned into "just one more game of baseball" on the Wii, or Laurie and I looking through the LTD catalog together, or us making crazy faces while Jeremy shot some pictures. It was hard to leave, but we finally did around 2:45. We pulled into our driveway about 9:30 last night. Unpacked the car, got MORE ice, and repacked our "cooler fridge", got a little sleep and was up at 5:45 this morning. Wow...no wonder I'm tired. I'm tired just TYPING this. And if you are still reading this, then YOU must be tired. Sorry for the rambling.

It was wonderful talking to all of my children on Mother's Day. I wish all moms everywhere a Happy Mother's Day.....but I think I am the luckiest mom in the world, because I get to be mom to the 6 most terrific people. And those six have exploded into 17. Seventeen to mother and grandmother. I am indeed a rich, rich woman.

A tired, old, very sore rich woman..... but a rich woman for sure.

Weekend Thoughts

2009-05-06T00:37:00.002-04:00

ok...so it's the wee hours of Wednesday morning, but I thought I'd write just a few ramblings about last weekend.
Friday night, Josh played in the tennis match between Turner-Ashby and Harrisonburg. He and Shane played the second doubles team from Harrisonburg High School. They lost 7-10, but Josh felt like it was a win because they were playing the second best team at Harrisonburg. He was so excited about the match.
Took him to his friend Tyler's house to spend the night. There were four guys spending the night, and they had a great time...playing pool, "jamming", etc. I got an urgent call around 11:30 p.m. from Josh asking me to bring over his bongos. I did, and it was fun seeing him so happy. I had some time to myself, because Kelly was down at Drew's house. He had a meeting down there that day, and really enjoyed spending some time with Drew and his family. So I stopped by Walmart for some pink petunias and went to the hospital to visit my friend.

Saturday morning I got out a little late for the "Belmont Garage Sales", a semi-annual event our subdivision puts on. It's quite a party.
This pic was taken a little late in the festivities, and things had died down quite a bit. I picked up a few little things, and the whole time I beat myself up because I need to HAVE a garage sale, not go to one. Just didn't have time to put it together. I was extremely sad that day too, because I talked to my daughters and all but Meggie were out going to garage sales too! Jessie, Laurie, Michelle and I....but no one was together. That just stinks. We went together on a Saturday last October and it was terrific. We need to do that again. I fought that "alone" feeling all weekend. It was bad. I did get a couple of cheap frames with some ugly pictures inside. I am going to try some ideas Michelle has on her blog. We'll see how that goes.

Then I ran down to my office on North 42 near the Harmony Square Shopping Center. The chiropractor who owns our building was putting on a big Kid's Fair. My boss wanted someone to dress up as the State Farm Good NeighBear (yep..you heard that right).
Well, at first Josh was going to do it, but he wanted to get to the garage sales, and he wasn't too excited to do it anyway. I called Brooke L., who is home from college this summer, and she was glad to do it. I just wanted to stop by and see how she was with it all. Well, no worries there! She was dancing up a storm, and usually had a little parade around her. I mean, this bear had some moves! Good job, Brooke!
Josh had a great Saturday going around the sales with a big group of friends. I met up with him to give him a few bucks. He was so excited. Found a couple of CD's....and a terrific find..."Look...it's a midget tennis racket!" (I had to tell him it was a racquetball racquet. I shouldn't have. He was kind of excited about this racquet for munchkins) He also found one catcher's leg shield...or whatever it's called. One. Not two. One. And he had it on. I asked him why. He said "Cause I like it." good answer. They ended up back at Tyler's house for pizza, more pool and he learned how to play poker. "don't worry mom...not with money". Michelle said she was learning how to play poker too. Interesting. Anyway, he had a great day. And even greater, when he realized it was raining when he got home, so he "couldn't" mow the yard.

The valley is looking gorgeous. Springtime in the Shenandoah Valley is only surpassed by fall in the valley. The dogwood trees are alive with color, so I snapped this picture along one of the streets around here. Soon the blossoms will fall, and the trees will all be various shades of green. A different kind of beautiful, but oh, I love the "crayola springs" around here.
I went to the store, cleaned out the fridge, cleaned the house from a week of me being at work, and made some chocolate chip cookies and chicken enchiladas. Kelly and I took some over to Barb's house, and then Kelly and I both went up to the hospital to visit her. It was nice. Her husband was there, and then the Shavers came, too. A little party in the hospital.
Sunday was nice. A peaceful day. It felt good to be at church. The sister missionaries asked when they could stop by, and I said "How about today for dinner?" I made tortellini soup and garlic bread for dinner. I had been feeling kind of down, and it was so nice to have them over. We got to have them for quite awhile, and we laughed, and ate, and talked. And they gave us a nice little lesson, too. It brightened me. Our home is meant to be full. I like it that way.
Late Sunday night, Kelly and I stayed up reading in bed, and just talking. It was nice to stop and spend a few minutes together. I think reading in bed is heaven. Double heaven when your husband is reading with you.
ok...so boring post, just felt like getting it down. sorry.

Take a minute and Feel Good....

2009-05-03T22:45:00.004-04:00

I found this story last night, and wanted to share it. I've watched it a number of times and notice something new each time.

Watch how BOTH teams are excited and run out at the end. Kind of makes me feel that in the end, we are ALL on the same team.
Also, we need to find our passion, do all we can to prepare, and when we get the chance.....let it rip. Go all out. Make it happen. No excuses.

Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fw1CcxCUgg

Late Night Thoughts

2009-05-02T01:50:00.005-04:00

One year. 365 days. It was one year ago today that we had to make the tough decision to put our dog Shammie down. (well, technically yesterday, since it's after midnight now)
It was so hard. Kelly and I held her at the end, and she looked up at us with eyes full of love and let us know it was OK.
The vet assured us we were doing the right thing. But, this dog....well, I'm too tired to write it all, but she was amazing. An absolute gift to our family.
It would also be her 14th birthday today. I miss you, girl. Sometimes when I wake up, I still expect you to be asleep on the floor right beside my bed. Thanks for all the love.

Last year, Drew, Steph and Kimmi and Alli were staying with us for a few months. They were here when we had to say good-bye to Shammie. The girls really loved this dog. Well, I got up and was ready for work the next morning. Came out to the kitchen and put a smile on my face. As I was leaving, the girls were eating breakfast. Kimmi (who was seven at the time) came over and hugged me and gave me a paper she had been working on. She said, "Grandma, I wrote this for you."

She wrote:

A STORY OF SHAMMY
Shammy was a good dog. When Magen was 5, Shammy could run faster than Sloopy. Magen is a person and she is a teenager. Sloopy is a dog. He is very big, and he is 2 and a half years old. Shammy is in heaven now. It was her birthday. She turned 91 years old. Going to heaven is her birthday present. Shammy got to see her Mommy!! Shammy must be happy. So should her Mom. I love Shammy.
The End

(I do too, Kimmi. I do too. And thanks for the treasure)

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Other thoughts:

I went and spent time tonight with a friend that just had open heart surgery on Wednesday. It was incredible to think about and talk about what modern medicine can do. I felt a great spirit of gratefulness and sisterhood in her hospital room with her. I took some beautiful pink petunias I found at WalMart and put in a basket. I told her when she got home I'd come over and plant them. (I didn't want to bring something that she would have to watch die over the next week) Anyway, my heart is filled with gratitude that there is knowledge on the earth to repair something as intricate as a heart, while being kept alive by machines during the surgery. I'm so happy, Barb. You are on your way.
While I was there, a good friend, Br. Larsen, came to visit, too. It was nice spending time together. He gave her a blessing of comfort before we left. One phrase he said is especially sticking with me....he was talking about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and how she is "nestled in their arms".
And I have been thinking - those arms are for us all.
All of us...whose hearts are "broken" too.

Almost Midnight....Again.

2009-04-28T23:45:00.003-04:00

The phone rings.
I think it's a lovely sound.
I wish someone would get it.
It keeps ringing.
Where is it? What is it?
Oh yeah, it's the phone.
Is it still ringing?
Ok, ok! I'll get it.
Wait...where am I?
Was I just sound asleep at the kitchen table with my work clothes and shoes still on?
Yes, I guess so.
Michelle apologizes for waking me up. I am just glad she did. After some VERY important discussion of American Idol...and the merits of Danny, Kris and Adam....(love those three, altho Danny is my favorite) I realize maybe I should get some real shut-eye. It's been scarce lately. Some soft pj's and my bed will make it all better.
G'night y'all.

On a side note, between the hours of 5:30 and 11:00 tonight, I got to talk to and enjoy each of my six children. They are each terrific people...who teach me, and stretch me, and love me.
So glad to be their mom. Thanks, Heavenly Father, for my greatest gifts.

And the Winner Is....

2009-04-27T23:13:00.005-04:00

Saturday was our Ward Dessert-Off. Or whatever it is called. Kind of like the chili-cookoff....but with desserts.
Saturday was also jammed packed with "have-to's". I know you know the deal. But I wanted to bring SOMETHING!!
So...I decided on something our family LOVES, but isn't real hard to make.
Michelle's Butterfinger Cake.
YUM!!!
Michelle has made this for family gatherings....and it is gobbled up in a flash. I've made it before and it was well loved. So I thought I'd bring that.
The desserts were divided into four categories. And this little gem WON the cake division!!
YAY!!! (you can stop applauding now....you look kind of silly sitting there in front of your computer clapping. But thanks.)
I cut the pieces real small since it is so rich. So lots of people got a chance to taste it. We even brought some home.
Anyway...if YOU want a winner, try out Michelle's cake. It is amazing. (and jam-packed with calories...but who's counting??)
The recipe is on our new family recipe blog...which I need to add to. Thanks for Jessie for getting this started and adding some recipes and for Michelle for posting some, too. I promise I am adding to it. Fun!
But...in the mean time.....get over to
our recipe site
and get your fixin's for the one and only yummy Butterfinger Cake!!
A party in your mouth.
I promise.

Thanks, Michelle!! :)

Tuesday Morning

2009-03-24T09:04:00.004-04:00

Thanks, James!
I have stayed over at work quite a bit, so my boss let me have a day off with pay, without taking a vacation day! Woo-hoo! Jessie and the boys are visiting for a few days, so I have been saving this day up for a few weeks.
I woke up this morning to the biggest toothless grin. It made my heart jump. :) I played toys on my bed with both Noah and Griffin, while Poppy was getting ready for work. And I have spent the last hour sitting in my rocking chair in my jammies, with a big warm black dog laying on my chilly bare feet, rocking Griffin. He fell asleep under a toasty soft blanket, and we rocked and rocked. Every once in awhile he would turn his head, or look up at me and grin, then close his eyes and rub his face back into my shoulder and fall asleep again. For the last half hour, he has slept peacefully snuggled on me under his blanket, and Noah was coloring a few feet nearby on the piano bench. Well, not ON the piano bench, but on some paper that Poppy got out before he left for work. Jess was able to shower, get dressed, do hair and makeup without a baby on the counter with her. It was great. What a super way to start the morning! Griffin is finishing up his nap in his bed, while I get ready. Then we are off to the Children's Museum and other adventures today.
Josh is playing in a tennis match at Turner-Ashby today, and I hope we get to take the little ones and go. He played in his first varsity match last night. He played doubles with Zach on his team. He loved it. I can't wait to see him play. Just a few weeks ago he was checking weather.com at night, hoping for a snow day, or at least a delay. This last week or so, he checks it every night, hoping for great weather, so he can play more tennis. His band director is adjusting the indoor drumline schedule to accomodate his tennis, so he gets to do both. He is really happy about that.
Well, I am getting in the shower and getting ready for this incredible, wonderful, terrific day.
I just wish that tomorrow I could do the same with my other grandkids and their moms...Michelle and Toby and Tate...and then the next day with Steph, Kimmi, Alli & David.
I miss my little ones so much. They change so fast!
Another thought: THANKS, Jessie for helping me with my blog. I have talked with Jess and Michelle and they both have told me ways I could fix it up a little, but I have gotten frustrated trying to do it, and it seemed to take too long. With Jessie on the laptop and laying on my bed, she helped me while I was on my computer at the desk. It worked out great....how do you like it?
(I personally love the kiwi clock I found!)

Awwww....what a lovely time of year!!!

2009-03-19T23:50:00.003-04:00

It's that wonderful time of year again. Yes....spring. In fact, tomorrow is officially the first day of spring. Yay! I love springtime in the Valley.
But I am talking about that fantastic time of year called .....MARCH MADNESS!!! Games began today, and so far 12 games are final, with four more in the second half. Sixteen games today. And sixteen more tomorrow to finish up the first round.
Our family has one big pool, which is so fun. Drew sets up a website and game on cbssports.com and we all sign in and make our picks. Then we can message each other, etc. It's terrific, and we have had GREAT fun through the years. Thanks, Drew!
This year there are 19 in our pool. The oldest, well, is Kelly at age 55. The youngest? Just shy of six months. Yep.
Anyway....12 games are final. What are the odds of picking EVERY single winner of those 12? No, I didn't pick them. (I do have 10 correct so far, though!) But, Josh has picked a winner for each game! And, looking at the final four games, I think he will get at least three correct. Western Kentucky might just beat Illinois, which would be Josh' only miss today. But who knows. Anyway, as of right now, his picks are perfect. PERFECT!
GO JOSH~! (and Go Memphis!)

and I am plain tuckered out. g'nite.

You are Tagged!

2009-03-01T21:19:00.002-05:00

OK, the post below explains a challenge that I accepted. I am supposed to challenge six others to do it. I choose: Jessie, Michelle, Steph (or Drew!), Ammon, Ken, and Deb F.
And...anyone else up for the challenge!!! (as in YOU Laurie, if you get your internet working! and Miss Meggie...but she hasn't touched her blog since November)
Oh, and I'd love to see what David F. has to offer, because he has some great pictures!

The Sixth Challenge

2009-02-28T22:33:00.010-05:00

My friend, Deb, had this challenge on her blog.

She "dared" me to participate in the "sixth" challenge which is where you:

1. Go the the photo folder in your computer
2. Go to the 6th folder.
3. Go to the sixth picture.
4. Put the picture on your blog and the description.
5. Invite 6 friends to join the challenge.

So, here's my picture:

Ok, so I know it's not that exciting. Just a pretty bad picture of an old guitar. But, I guess it takes some explaining.

Josh has been playing around with my guitar lately and decided it needed new strings. (it did!) So...off to one of his favorite places in the 'burg....HomeTown Music. We bought some Martin acoustic strings and I was in the middle of taking the old ones off, when I had a "hankerin" for a cold pop. (and it IS pop...not soda....but that's another subject)
I set the guitar down "mid-strung" and when I came back, those strings pulled on my "heartstrings" a little and I took a few pictures....just for me, I thought. But now, my blogging buddies share in it, too, I guess.

Now...about this old guitar. Flash back to the beginning of the cold and snowy season of late 1977. Kelly and I were living in an upstairs apartment off of Norton Rd in Columbus. Drew had been born in January of that year and I was pregnant with Michelle. Fun times, busy times, and I never stopped. That is, until the pregnancy hit a big speed bump. Everyone was concerned. The doctor put me on "bed rest" for a couple of months in hopes that I could carry Michelle to term. (which I'm thrilled to say I did...even PAST term, oh goodie!)
But during that bed rest, it was tough. Imagine being young, usually VERY active, with a 9 month old little guy, and you have to stay put. No computer of course, and we got fuzzy NBC if I stood in a certain place in the living room and held up one leg and pointed tin foil at the TV. (Ok..so THAT is a little exaggeration, but it was really hit and miss reception on that old little black and white tv, and we DID only get NBC and sometimes a very snowy and fuzzy ABC) No computer, no cell phone, no video games. We did have a few albums and an old stereo, but I wasn't supposed to keep getting up to change it. Kelly was working at Prudential Insurance, and I would get all set up on the couch with things around me, and an open playpen right next to me with Drew and his toys, etc. I did get up quite a few times during the day for necessary things, but the majority of time I spent on the couch trying to be as still as possible for my unborn baby while doing my best to take care of my other baby. (These days I know that medically that was probably ridiculous, but back then they seemed to think bed rest was the answer to everything)
After several weeks, I was going batty. My mom came over when she could and a couple friends from church would pop in, but the walls were closing in. I tried to be upbeat, but I know Kelly could tell the days seemed like forever to me.
One day, he came in all smiles. I mean big goofy little-boy smiles. I could tell something was up. He asked me about my day, because I usually didn't talk to him during the day at all (remember no cell phones....it seems weird now) Then he kissed me. He said he forgot something...went to the door, and picked up something from our little landing. He tried to hide it behind him (didn't work) then brought me over a beautiful, brand spankin' new guitar and handed it to me. He said something like "uh, this is for you" or something wonderfully romantic like that. Seriously, I was in love. Head over heels in love. I mean over the moon in love. (and I felt pretty good about Kelly about then, too!)
He had been saving the little bit of money he had to spend on lunches, and other things, and he worked out a great deal with the guy who sold it to him. It was unbelievable to me. No special occasion. Just because he knew I needed something to keep me busy.
Well, Drew loved it. He would sit and watch me fumble with it and work out a few songs. We sang the ABC song and Twinkle Twinkle over and over. (it's the same song so that made it easy) Then, it was on to bigger and better things...like Puff the Magic Dragon and Blowin' in the Wind. Soon we were on to Venus and House of the Risin' Sun. Oh yeah.....we were rockin' out on the couch.
The guitar has been brought out and loved over and over through the years...sometimes forgotten for months, and sometimes right smack in the middle of things. I was always so careful with it. Not a mark on it for 19 years. Until....I left it out after a "jam session" with Laurie, Jessie and Megan up in Toledo. Josh was almost three. And had a toy hammer. Not a good combination. It must have been a little sharp, because I came back and saw him right in the middle of "me fix tigar, mommy!" Click to make this picture below appear bigger.....you can see his handiwork. (I actually love those marks now)

I've been married 33 1/2 years.
Lots of special moments.
But few equal the day my sweetheart brought home a guitar to his girl on the couch.

All-District Band 2009

2009-02-22T11:50:00.008-05:00

Not a great shot, but perhaps you can pick out the handsome percussionist standing in the back?

Josh made All-District Band this year and the performance was February 13th at Robert E. Lee High School in Staunton. They practiced all day Friday and most the day on Saturday and then the performance was at 4pm. The auditorium was full, and the music was amazing. There was a Middle School Band, the Concert Band and the Symphonic Band. Josh played in the Concert Band. I thought it was incredible that they only had two days with each other and with the music yet it sounded so finished and so sharp. I had a super time. Eighteen high schools were represented. Hundreds of kids tried out, so this was quite an honor for him. Megan, Kelly and I went together to the performance. We enjoyed being together so much.

Me and my "baby". (When did THIS happen???)

The obligatory shot with the parents. Josh looks so thrilled.

Big sister and little brother. I'm so glad Meg came with us.
(I think Josh had about had it with the camera AND the monkey suit.)

More Shots.....

2009-02-22T11:49:00.003-05:00

When we got back to the car I noticed a little something that just didn't look right. I had to capture it. My handsome young man, in his sharp-looking tux, and his hairy ankles. Yep....pure class, Josh.

We were driving down Route 11 towards Harrisonburg and decided to stop at Jalisco's in Verona for a little celebration. We laughed and laughed and had a great time. Good food, but weird, weird service. Let's just say I have no doubt this waitress is just not going to make it in the service industry.

There were four of us, so the waitress brought four mints with our check. She had to count them out, it wasn't like she just grabbed a handful. Wouldn't you have noticed the open and broken one?? Not sure who that one was for. Fun times, though. Fun, fun times.

Blast from the Past

2009-02-19T22:24:00.001-05:00

I received a wonderful surprise from a great friend of mine, Danielle, the other day. She sent me a Valentine card with a note of love and some plans to get together soon, and at the end of the note she wrote: "Look what I found!"

Danielle and her hubby, Rod, are living in Beuna Vista, VA, where he is the President of Southern Virginia University. But, once upon a time, they were raising their eight children while we were raising our six, and we were both living in Dublin, Ohio, right outside of Columbus. It was a grand time. And our Drew and Michelle and their Hyrum and Mary were the best of friends. It was super, and I truly love their family, which, by the way, consists now of 32 with their kids' spouses and the grandchildren. (which makes our 19 look like a quaint, tiny little family)
Danielle and I laughed and cried together, and always had time to shop for a bargain. We solved all kinds of world and family problems sitting in her big "van-bus" or roaming an auction, and I miss her like crazy.
I am looking forward to a fun time with her soon.

ANYWAY....back to these pics. She slipped these into the Valentine card, and what smiles they brought to my face. These were taken the day Drew gave his farewell talk before leaving on a two-year mission. This would be in 1996.

Above, Michelle and Drew~~~ what a team. It was tough for both of them to say goodbye for two years. Drew is 19 and Michelle is 18 in this picture.

We loved our little boy so much~~~ and even though it was tough to send him off, we were so happy for him. (Check out Kelly's glasses - maybe we should get those out again!)

Father - Mother - Son - and lots of love

The love continues......Drew is "tolerating" this love fest very well, don't you think???
Michelle and her friend, Mary, kissing their buddy Drew. (I love his face in this)

More Surprise Pictures

2009-02-19T22:22:00.001-05:00

The "ties" that bind.
(ok...so that is really corny.But it's been a long day and now it's late, I'm in a goofy mood, and I'm stupid. Take whichever excuse makes more sense.)

I love that she sent this one, too!! This was taken at Danielle's house ~ Michelle and Drew just hanging out. 16 and 15. LOVE IT!!!

And, I think this one is timeless. Could be in any era.
Elder Drew Hebdon
..... my little boy.

Is it just ME??

2009-02-14T00:16:00.002-05:00

Is it just me, or are other people's grandkids just not quite as cute (or smart, or talented or amazing) as mine?

I am missing my treasures tonight... (by age order)...

Kimberlee Diane,
Allison Rose,
Tobin Kelly,
Noah Emerson,
Tate Steven,
Griffin James
and
David Andrew

(you all are my FAVORITE!!)

Time's A-Wastin'!!

2009-02-12T18:52:00.002-05:00

Thanks to Jess and Ammon for this great idea! Don't know what I will make, but I am already coming up with some crazy ideas!!!!

The first five people to comment on this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:
1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It'll be done this year (hopefully sooner than later.)
4. You will have no clue what it is going to be.
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch? Oh the catch is that you must re-post this on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me you did will win a marvelous homemade gift by me!Let the games begin!!

morning gifts

2009-02-06T00:39:00.004-05:00

Tuesday morning we woke to a beautiful fresh blanket of snow....clinging to each and every tree limb and fencepost around. There was a sparkle to every day things, thanks to the snow and sunlight. I drove slowly to work, marveling in the wonder of it all. Peaceful, quiet and lovely beyond words.
Above is a picture of our dogwood tree off the back deck. Delightful in any season.

His masterpiece of white.

Above, my buddy Sloopy stands ready to say goodbye to me as I leave for work that morning. Such a fun, sweet dog. Oh..and my car is getting warmed up....nice and toasty.
(I miss our dog, Shammie, so much when it snows. She acted like it was a big gift...just for her...and even as an old dog, became a puppy in the snow.)

Meg doesn't even know anyone is watching as she leaves for work. She is even more beautiful than the snow.

Oh...the Cars

2009-02-05T23:30:00.000-05:00

This a close-up of the Pinewood Derby cars in the story below.
OSU Buckeyes and Spiderman.
That's my boy.

Pinewood Derby Revisited

2009-02-04T22:48:00.005-05:00

Last Friday night was the Annual Chili-Cookoff at Church. This brings a lot of people together, just enjoying each other, eating chili, and voting for the very yummiest. This is also the time of year for the Cub Scout's Pinewood Derby. Our ward's Cub Scout troop consists of two boys...which doesn't amount to much of a race, especially for a number of various prizes. So....it was decided to combine the two events. An added plus....anyone who was coming to the Chili Cookoff was invited to dust off a Pinewood Derby car and bring it along for the fun.

I made a pot of chili the night before, and let it cook in the crock pot most the day on Friday. I got home from work Friday a little late, hurried and changed, Kelly grabbed my "winning" pot of chili, and we hopped in the car. Zach (Josh' best friend, and my "adopted" son) was over and was spending the night, so he came with us. I mentioned to them as we were pulling out of the driveway about being able to bring cars, and that we should have thought of that. Well, within two minutes they had run inside, grabbed a couple of Josh' old Pinewood Derby cars and were back in the car.

We got to church and found that most had already eaten their first round of chili. :(
I put mine on the table anyway. #17. Megan and her friend Andrew showed up, too. I was really glad they came. People sampled the various chili dishes and then voted for their favorite. Josh and Zach voted for #22 numerous times. (by the way, there was no #22...they are just weird) And yes, they each voted for #17, too. And...guess what?????? My "winning" chili did not win. It didn't come in second or third either. Oh well.

The Derby was about ready to begin. Josh and Zach were working at the prep table, adding some graphite..and making sure the old wheels would turn around. (see picture above)
I enjoyed watching my 15-year old, doing the things he did as an 8 year old. And...with his old Scoutmaster, Seth Stratford, by his side. Zach was having fun, too. Josh had his silver and scarlet OSU Buckeye car, and Zach was using Josh' very unique Spiderman car.

I am so glad Zach and Josh are buddies. They are simply fun together. They make me laugh. Both totally crazy, by the way. They seem to love the same things. Especially music. I love Zach's mom, Michelle, too, which is a big bonus. Some friendships seem to just click. And these guys definitely do. So..I usually claim another son...my "son" Zach.

They raced against other cars, eliminated some, and kept racing. Finally it was down to Josh' OSU car and one other. The fastest car of the evening???? It was Will Halling's....who was so excited. But Josh was pleased. He came in second place overall for speed and also won "Best Paint Job".

After we moved here from Ohio, Josh got to know Josh Stratford. "Little" Josh really loved being around Josh, started calling him "Big Josh". So..."Big Josh" and "Little Josh" were buds. Especially swimming buddies in "Little Josh's" backyard swimming pool.
Now "Big Josh" is even bigger, and "Little Josh" isn't so little anymore. I thought how cool that they had a Pinewood Derby together. This is the only way it could have happened. Here they are with their cars and their "trophies".
Winners......"Little Josh" and "Big Josh"

Oh...and by the way, I still have some chili. Come on by and share some "Loser Chili #17".

And....

2008-11-23T01:59:00.002-05:00

ok.....just one more picture. (makes me even prouder to work for State Farm!)

OSU vs. Michigan - NOON TODAY!!!!

2008-11-22T11:59:00.001-05:00

what can I say?

O...H...I...O!!

(tiny picture I know...I am blogger stupid)

It's kickoff time!

Go Bucks!

Buckeye Fever

2008-11-22T10:15:00.009-05:00

THE Ohio State University Buckeyes!!!

now....how did THAT get on my blog????? Seriously.....someone should be ashamed.

You Know It!

A couple of GREAT commercials.....enjoy~!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zv0_EpF5SyY

ESPN has called the Ohio State/Michigan game the greatest rivalry in sports history--and for good reason. The competition is so fierce that some historians think it's a carryover of the Toledo War, a 19th century boundary dispute between the states of Ohio and Michigan. The teams have played since 1897.

Last week in October

2008-11-03T07:56:00.001-05:00

Before the game....even handsome from the back. (right in the center of the photo)

Last game of the season. Turner Ashby beat Broadway 41-7. Yay!!!

Addie was the drum major this year. She is a senior and so sweet. I snapped a picture of her and Josh after halftime. We are going to miss her!

Our buddy, Dale Richards, and Josh. Not sure about this pic. I guess Josh had five minutes to get ready....he said he came as "Megan, Grandma, Jedi." Had on Meg's Galley2 shirt, skirt, pearls, a few belts, some ties, a scarf that reminded him of Grandma...and of course the Jedi sword.
Strange guys.

Maggie, Sonya, Nancy and Josh. What a crew.

Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-28T20:27:00.002-04:00

Well, I haven't carved a pumpkin yet this year, how about you?

(Josh carved one tonight at Maggie's house...of the Canadian flag...yep...I guess he saw a maple leaf cookie cutter. Make sense, I guess)

Anyway....if you feel a little left out...and are dying to carve your own pumpkin..........this is for you:

http://www.cubpack81.com/images/carve_pumpkin.swf

(but....you don't get any pumpkin seeds to roast. Now that is a down side)

Enjoy!

(and don't forget to clean up your mess...carving pumpkins is a dirty job!)

Little Drummer Boy

2008-10-26T08:28:00.005-04:00

Josh is CRAZY for the drums! He has a lot of talent, but I especially love his passion. I love how excited he gets about anything musical.

ROCK ON JOSH!

Pullin' in to Wal-Mart...

2008-10-25T20:44:00.002-04:00

...just one reason I love living in the valley.

Where do I start?

2008-10-25T00:23:00.002-04:00

I just got on my blog and looked at my unposted blogs. Pictures I wanted to share but hadn't written about. Add to that an incredibly full last few months, and I think I should blog ten times a day for the next little while.

I can't get overwhelmed. This is supposed to be fun.

So...I am just going to share what I can.

I love reading all your blogs, though. I am glad you are better at this than I am. Keep them coming.

See you soon!

Ceiling Art

2008-10-25T00:14:00.001-04:00

The skies have been just beautiful lately....most the time I don't have my camera with me.
I did capture the sky a couple of times recently, though. The above picture was taken last week in the mall parking lot right before sundown.

I picked up Josh and friends from marching band practice the other day, and stopped while driving out of the high school because the sky took my breath away.

I need to remember to look up.

Yep...that's a good thing to remember.

ByeBye to Summer!

2008-10-25T00:10:00.001-04:00

OK...so I know Halloween is around the corner...and we are smack dab in the middle of my favorite season of the year, but I came across these pics of the beauty I enjoyed in my own front yard this summer, and just felt grateful.
His creations are all around us.

(Click on the collage for a bigger picture)

Saturday with LoLo!

2008-09-21T22:14:00.001-04:00

We had lots of fun yesterday. Laurie came to visit us for the day. Josh was gone when she got here, and so Kelly and I got some time to catch up with her. Then she and I ran around the 'burg together. We went to Michael's, Wal-Mart and the Dollar Store. Oh...and Mercy House thrift store. Do we know how to party...or what????
Michelle was telling us she had started making some frig magnets with those clear craft stones. So...we decided to make some, too. We found big stones at the Dollar Store because they only had small ones at Michael's. We had fun working together on them. We each made 13 magnets! We tried making a bracelet with some silver elastic string and a string of shells Laurie found at Michael's. A lot of the shells' holes weren't made big enough for the string to go through....so my dear husband went out and got his drill. And there he was, sitting at the table, with his big fingers, holding a tiny, tiny shell, and trying to enlarge the holes for the strings. It worked on one. ONE. But he tried and tried. It was almost laughable how hard he was trying and how nothing was getting accomplished because his drill bit was just a bit too big to get into the hole. We kept telling him it was alright, but he was determined. Nope....the shells didn't work....but how lucky we are to have someone care about us so much.
Thanks for trying, honey.
All she needs to do is get a little thinner elastic string. No biggie.
Before Laurie left, we made homemade chocolate milk shakes. Mmmmm.
Then Laurie and I did something we love to do. We both share the piano bench, and she plays the tenor and bass, and I play the soprano and alto, and we play hymns. And laugh. And every once in awhile .....it even sounds like a hymn!
Good times with LoLo. Come again real soon, ok?

Oh...and another year of marriage is behind us...and another one, full of wonderful possibilities has begun.
Our 33rd anniversary was yesterday.
33 years??? How did that happen so fast?

Taste of Italy!

2008-09-21T20:30:00.004-04:00

We were visiting Michelle and Andrew in Georgia about six weeks ago to meet Tate and play with Toby. (and see Michelle and Andrew, of course)
Anyway, she is a great cook, and while we were there.......she made her Stromboli for us. Oh wow....it was incredible!!
I was excited when I saw it on her blog....she made one for her next door neighbor after some surgery....so....I decided to try my hand at it.
You can get the recipe on Michelle's blog.
The picture above is with all the goodies, including the pesto sauce, but before I put on some provolone.
We made one side with mushrooms and peppers, too.

Rolled it up loosely....and cut the slits. Ready for the oven!

The finished product. Yep...now THAT looks like a heart attack in a log, doesn't it?
Yummy! It didn't look quite as pretty as Michelle's, but our tummies thought it looked just fine.
Served it with marinara sauce for dipping, along with a salad, made up of romaine lettuce and spinach leaves, black olives, red pepper, tomatoes and mushrooms.
Josh and Kelly both say this is a keeper.
Thanks, 'chelle!

Later this week, I will have to post a terrific recipe I made from Jessie's kitchen...who is an amazing cook, too. It's made in the crock pot and put over noodles. Yum.

5:40 a.m. @ National Reagan Airport

2008-09-13T16:24:00.003-04:00

I was so proud of Megan and was so excited for her as we hugged her goodbye at the airport last Thursday morning. I hadn't shut my eyes all night, because I did most the driving, but was so glad to have spent some time with her helping her get ready. I love being with Meg. She is interesting, funny, sweet, and very unique. She teaches me a lot. She knows me well. And that is a great thing.....I love how my children really seem to know me.

I am missing you, Meggie. I know you are doing great out at BYU-Idaho. ....the birthplace of this crazy family of ours...as this is where Dad and I began. (And look where that little meeting has brought all of us.)

Remember, you have a momma and a poppa that are NUTS about you!

WE LOVE MEGGIE!

Josh is FIFTEEN!

2008-08-06T07:49:00.001-04:00

No time to write...but just wanted to post these pics from Monday night......Happy Birthday, JOSH! We had a great time...and I can't believe my "baby" is fifteen!
More later.....and more pics of Tate Steven Pieracini coming up! Go check out Michelle's blog for beautiful pictures of him!

Mega News!

2008-07-23T21:40:00.005-04:00

I haven't blogged in a long time....it's for a number of reasons.
But, my life has been busy and full...good and bad. It's been like my normal life...multiplied by ten.

BUT....tonight I have SUPER, MEGA, INCREDIBLE, WONDERFUL, MAGNIFICENT NEWS!!!!

"Baby boy" Pieracini was born at 7:42 p.m. tonight to my daughter, Michelle, and her husband Andrew and to his "big" brother, Toby (Tobin Kelly) Pieracini, down in Griffin, Georgia.

Michelle was over three weeks early...but this little guy was growing fast, and causing things to happen quickly.

The doctor decided to have Michelle go on over to the hospital today, because her body was more than ready to have this little one. I spoke with her at 5:40 p.m. And...after some intense, hard, but quick labor and one push, he was born. No epidural, no stitches. Just one tuckered out mom.

Michelle and I talked about 45 minutes later, and she told me he is adorable. She is so so so happy.

6 lbs. 8 oz, 20 inches long, black curly hair (we think). He was still being cleaned up when we talked. No name yet...so another surprise to look forward to!

I'm a Grandma again. Woo Hoo! And as far as the three little grandboys I had coming......well....one down....two to go. We are wishing you the best, Jessie and Steph!!!
By October I will have two adorable granddaughters, and five......yes...FIVE.....little grandsons.
Fun times.

Way to go, Michelle!!!!!! They've been really tough to get here...but you sure have this labor and delivery thing down! When it's time for them to come....you don't mess around!

Truth on a T-Shirt

2008-07-03T13:50:00.001-04:00

You betcha, Alli.

(stay tuned for pictures of all the terrific Hebdon grandkids. I have quite a few to post later today. Be warned.....they are the cutest little people on the face of the earth.)

Wow...soon there will be seven cousins. How much fun will it be when we all get together!
I need a swimming pool......and lots of popsicles. Heaven to me would be hanging out in the water with all of them.

I love being a grandma. Just love it.

And Alli.....I'll never tell. :)

I Got Clipped Tonight

2008-07-03T01:28:00.004-04:00

I went quite a bit shorter when I got my hair cut tonight. I think I will like it.
(this is being posted for my daughters, because they will want to see it. For the rest of you....sorry for the boring post and ugly pictures of me....you should just go back to snapping beans, or painting your toenails, or cleaning the shower grout or watching Montel Williams......just about anything is more fun than looking at my hair.)

My Sabbath Portrait

2008-07-03T01:21:00.003-04:00

There is a delightful young man at Church....named Michael Walton. About ten or eleven years old. He is one incredibly intelligent guy. I wonder what he will do with his life as he has many gifts. We've had fun as we have shared math riddles and jokes, etc.
Sunday I happened to be sitting next to him during sacrament meeting. I noticed he kept looking at me. Whenever I'd look over at him, though, he would look away. He was almost done with this when I figured out what he was doing.
He gave it to me after the meeting. Portrait...by Michael.

Hey...look how clear my skin looks....and no freckles. And a lovely smile.
Not too shabby :)
(and I appreciate the fact that he only gave me one chin)

Mona Lisa....eat your heart out.

Some Dirt Therapy

2008-06-30T01:58:00.002-04:00

Going outside for some fun. Digging in the dirt. Ripping out the weeds. Giving my dog a drink from the hose. Giving myself a drink from the hose. Getting my jeans dirty. Walking barefoot in the grass. Picking a cucumber or yellow squash or two.

Feeling His love through His incredible gifts.

To Tell the Truth

2008-06-29T00:41:00.006-04:00

Remember that game show? Kitty Carlisle and the rest of the gang?
Wow...if you do....you must be as old as me!!

Anyway.....I can just hear it now.

"Now...will the REAL bad blogger please stand up?"

And...it would have to be me.

Bad, bad blogger.

(but, I'm back. I actually did it this time, Jessie. Woo-hoo!)

They are growing like weeds!

2008-06-29T00:21:00.002-04:00

Josh and Megan came to the office with Kelly and I to get the last of our things there, and clean up a little. It was the weekend, so they just came in their pajama pants. We borrowed a truck (thanks, friends!) and moved the desk, credenza and office chairs. The rest fit in the Explorer.
Meg and Josh were both a great help....we couldn't have done it ourselves.
Then they came in with huge leaves growing out of their pants. I'm not sure why.
Crazy kids.
I love to hear them laugh together.
Sweet, sweet music.

Date Night Smiles

2008-05-28T21:47:00.003-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, Kelly and I went on a date. Yep...a couple of hours...just for us.
We had a great time together. He made me laugh all evening.
When we got home, we were just having fun talking and laughing with Megan and Josh. Megan took this picture of us.
I thought I'd post it, just to remember that fun night.....and the fact that I am very proud of this guy.
He just earned a promotion at work.....and he has only worked there 11 months. He loves his job, and the people he works with, and I am so glad he is happy.

Buds. Forever.

Try this!

2008-05-28T20:02:00.002-04:00

I found this little quiz on another blog I love....and I took it....and I'm Pocahantas! How cool!

Find out which princess you are and let me know!

( and no....I haven't died. I will blog more, I promise)

You Are Pocahantas!

Free-spirited and wise. You have a strong passionate spirit that touches and changes all who know you. The wisdom and common sense that you have is really what guides you through life. Even so, you also have a very playful side that loves adventure and excitement.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Where did the last week go?

2008-04-21T18:28:00.003-04:00

Days are tumbling over each other right now. I am at the office (again!) going through eight years of accumulation...figuring out what stays and what goes. I need a break.
I've been working a lot of hours, and then doing clean-up at our old office or family stuff every other minute. Fun things too, though. I had the great pleasure of going with Kelly to Mountain
View Elementary and eating lunch last Monday with Alli...and her kindergarten class. Way fun. Then Tuesday, it was our turn to eat with Kimmi and the first grade. Lots and lots of laughter. Then Tuesday night, Kimmi was in a Recycle Program...with lots of singing, speaking parts, etc. (She did the best job, by the way) It's fun to watch Drew and Steph....and remember like it was yesterday when our two oldest were in all kinds of elementary programs...and realize that this is a whole new generation...and we are the grandparents. But we are still kids, aren't we?

Josh left Wednesday evening to go to Florida with the Turner-Ashby Marching Band. So lots of quick preparation, and then sending him off. He had a SUPER time. Disney World, Epcot, performances, time at the hotel...bus rides, etc. Good stuff for him. He is jamming tonight with his buddies. It was fun to see him yesterday and hear all about it.

Thursday evening, I went and watched Kimmi play softball. This is the very first year since 1983 that I haven't had one of my own children playing sports this time of year. How sad. But....how fun to go watch grandkids now! Alli will be starting her season soon. Love it!

Kelly and I spent most of Saturday here at the office. And just went home and crashed Saturday night. Sunday, I taught Young Women, then Kelly had a meeting, then we hurried to Waynesboro for the funeral of Mary Harman. Her husband was our stake president when we moved here. They are wonderful people. I am so glad we went. It was such a powerful and spiritual meeting. She was only in her 50's. What a miraculous woman. President Harman's talk about her and their life together is something I will never forget. I think I'll have to write more about this later. It really did affect me greatly.

More news....Toby was very very sick on Friday evening. Michelle called me about 11:30 p.m. He had the croup cough something awful. She was doing everything she could to make him more comfortable. We talked awhile about what to do....which she was already doing...and I reminded her that if he has trouble breathing....to get him in. Which she already knew...and was planning to do if that happened. Well....it happened. About 5:00 a.m. she called and said that she and Andrew were taking him to the Emergency Room. I finally talked with her about 7:30 again...and he had been given a breathing treatment and a shot of steroids. He had rested awhile...but now was getting worse again. He also had a high fever. I talked with her again a few hours later...and they had x-rayed his chest, given him another breathing treatment, and observed him for awhile. Then she took him to their pediatrician, who has always been so good with Toby. Michelle was bushed, but grateful that he had received the treatment he needed. After some more rough time at home, he is finally getting better. It's so awful when your little one is sick. Andrew has been helping with the house and Toby, and has made sure Michelle got a little rest when she could. But Michelle is in the Relief Society Presidency down there..and they had a huge ward Relief Society sewing day on Saturday. She had lots to do to help with that. They made 54 baby quilts that day alone for charity....and had a big wonderful lunch together. Sounded so put together and so fun. Wish I could have been there.

Jessie has been doing what she can with Noah clinging to her all the time. She says she thinks he must know she is expecting a baby. If she gets up and walks a few steps....Noah is hanging on to her legs and crying for her to pick him up. When she plays with him he wants to be ON her lap. If she tries to cook, or fold clothes, he is fussing for her to hold him. So....Saturday, Ammon let her sleep in and she was able to get some things done she had been wanting to do. Cleaning, organizing, just being by herself for a few hours. When the boys got home, they had something to eat, and Noah went down for a long nap. So...Jessie got some time on Saturday. Yay for her. I wish I could go help her organize the mountain of scrapbook supplies she bought at a great deal. That would be fun. It's going to be interesting to watch Noah "welcome" his new baby brother. After a little adjustment....I bet he will be a GREAT big brother.

Laurie got home from Florida on Thursday night. She had been there for nine days with the patient she does private duty for. She was anxious to get home to Jeremy. He was waiting for her at the airport with flowers. Awww. How sweet. I just talked with Jeremy and he said Laurie peeled quite badly after her Florida sunburn. But she is a "beach girl"....all the way. They are moving into a cute townhouse in Hilliard on June 1st. Exciting.

Meggie just called. Big time stress these last few days of finals...and papers being due....and closing up things there at BYU. I'm sending good thoughts and being her cheerleader as she puts in a couple almost all-nighters. She has a ride from Provo to Salt Lake City for her flight Thursday night. She flies all night....with a layover at JFK in New York...then lands in Richmond at 9:40 a.m. Can't wait to see her. We are all excited. Even the dogs. :)

Kelly and I are putting one foot in front of the other...and doing the best we can. It seems like uphill sometimes...but we hold on to each other and keep climbing. I'm glad I'm making the journey with him.

Taking a Break...

2008-04-12T20:13:00.005-04:00

Sitting here at our office...the one we've had for almost eight years....the one that seems kind of like an extension of our home....and one filled with memories.....and trying to purge things, pack things, and decipher "trash from treasure". What exactly might we need to keep? It's not a fun job. So...what am I doing? Yep...taking a break, that's what.

Just read some book reviews on barnesandnoble.com, also read about ten blogs, cruised through the news websites...and now I should be getting back to business. An hour break is plenty long enough, don't you think? Nope? ok....I'll stretch it out a bit longer.

Monday and Tuesday are going to be fun...Kelly and I get to go eat lunch with our granddaughters at their elementary school. We eat with Alli (kindergarten) on Monday, and Kimmi (first grade) on Tuesday. I'm looking forward to that. Yum...school food. ;)

Last night, Josh had Zach, Bryan and Chad over for the evening. They jammed downstairs awhile, and played outside. Sloopy was in heaven with four boys around. We cooked hamburgers and hotdogs, chips and dip, and strawberry shortcake. Yum! It ended up that two of them spent the night, then Zach and Josh did a little weeding today. Then they all met up again, and jammed some more. They are sounding good! Tonight Josh is at Zach's...and spending the night. They are almost inseparable. If they are allowed to be together...they are.

But Zach is a great kid...when they are together, they just make me laugh. They talk in crazy accents, they do these weird walks, and they can play hacky-sack forever.

It was downright beautiful here yesterday and today. Our daffodils are so pretty. Blossoms on many of the trees, and the grass is getting so green. I love seeing everything coming to life. This will be a fun summer. I'm going to visit Michelle and Andrew and Toby in Georgia, visit Jessie and Ammon and Noah in North Carolina, I'm going to Ohio to visit Laurie and Jeremy and my folks and family, Drew and his family will be here with us, and Josh and his buddies will be around, and Meggie will be home! Fun, fun! Busy.....but I wouldn't have it any other way.

There have been lots of changes in my life lately. I'm thinking there will be a few more here soon. Just closing up this office seems to be a big change. Sometimes.....changing is hard. Growing pains, perhaps? Because we can't grow and stay the same. So I keep asking ..."What am I to learn and become by going through this? By "growing" through this?" I'll get back to you on that.

Until next time....green lights and blue skies.

Up in Smoke

2008-04-10T00:25:00.005-04:00

Wednesday I was anxious to get home for a few minutes after work, to see Josh and do a few things before I went to church for a meeting. It had been a rough day and I was worn out. As I got close to our old office on Rt 42, Kelly called me on my cell phone and told me that Dave's Recycling was on fire. He had just passed it, and no trucks or anything were there yet. Then I saw the smoke....then I heard the sirens.....one after another. Fire trucks, fire chief vehicles, police cars, etc. were passing us with their sirens wailing. When I got up near the fire, I realized that they were probably not going to let me pass and turn onto Erickson to go home. Traffic stopped on the road as they began to block off traffic. I pulled into the Food Lion/CVS parking lot to wait until I could turn around and go the other direction.

Soon, everyone in Harrisonburg seemed to have the same idea. Cars were pulling in, and people were getting out of their cars to look. Then they began pouring out of the stores and Arby's to join the crowd. At that point, the buildings were still intact. But the flames were raging. Seemed totally out of control. Then the fire turned green. (aluminum burning?) Then the smoke turned black. We began seeing trucks from Broadway, McGaheysville, Grottoes, etc. They seemed to keep coming.

I saw Billy Holloway and Mark Leavitt standing and watching the fire. They saw me and came over and we stood there and couldn't believe how fast and furious it was. The flames seemed to be nearing the buildings on our side of the fence. A truck came barrelling through the parking lot and pulled over. Soon the crane was up, and one very brave fireman, with an oxygen tank on, began spraying down the building that wasn't on fire, then directly on the fire. Water was shooting from everywhere...from different sides of the fire, wherever the trucks could get close enough. The fire spread quickly and soon the recycling center was diminished to a few standing steel beams.

Everyone who was watching talked with one another about what they had seen. People acted like we were all family. Interesting phenomenom. Many stood on their cars to take videos/pictures. I stood there mesmerized for over an hour, praying everyone was OK, and grateful for those men and women dedicated to helping us in times of trouble. This pic was taken with my phone about 45 minutes after I had first seen the fire.

It was a common sight to see someone get out of their car with fire gear on, and see that they were volunteer firemen and women....coming from many areas to help. Employees came from Food Lion with drinking water to aid those who were helping in any way.

Wow.

I heard tonight that no injuries were reported. Yay! After I left the church at 8:45 tonight, there was still smoke in the air at church, and when I went near the scene, there were still several cranes up with firemen trying to contain the fire, and there were probably 15-20 fire trucks still at the scene. Of course, with my background, I am hoping they had adequate insurance.
This is a family-owned business, and their home is right in the front of the property. Tonight it seems like the home is fine, but several buildings burnt to the ground.

A few days ago, we took some files from our office to the recycling center to have them shredded, for privacy purposes, since they contained some personal information about past customers. I guess I can be confident they are destroyed, huh?

Yep...it was a hot time in the ole' town tonight.

A voice from the dust....

2008-04-08T16:15:00.009-04:00

No...I'm not dead. And even though my last blog was February 7th, two months ago, the day Mitt Romney dropped out of the presidential race, it wasn't like "well, he's out....and so am I."

I cracked up when I looked at my blog and it seemed like that.

I just have been overwhelmed. But I've missed putting a few thoughts down now and then. I think of all I've let go, instead of recording it, over the last while. Oh well, today is another day. I have been diligent in reading all of your blogs, though, and thanks for not being a schmuck like me and drying up. I've enjoyed the news and the smiles.

Lots of things have been going on in my life. Big news......Kelly is now altogether out of the Property and Casualty insurance business and is concentrating on Life & Annuities with American General. He loves it. I think it has been like taking a weight off of him to not be in charge of his own business. I have been taking care of our agency, but about six weeks ago, we sold our accounts to an established agency here in town, and now I am working as an agent for them. It's been an adjustment for me, and lots of details to work out, but over all, I think we made a good move. We still need to close up our office, and hope to have that done by the end of this month. After that, I think I will begin to feel the lighter load of being able to forget about work when I am home. It has been quite a journey.

But.....there IS even bigger news...which I know almost every one of you already know, but I am so happy about it, I'm going to spread the good news once again. I am going to be a Grandma again....and again.....and AGAIN!

Yep...triple the blessings.

Michelle and Jessie are both due on August 16th. AND they are both having boys. So they both will have two little boys to snuggle, play with, laugh with, and love. I am so happy for them both. They are doing great. Ultrasounds look perfect, and "the boys" are already handsome, I'm told. (duh...of course!)

And.....Steph (Drew's wife) is due on October 14th!!! By then, Alli will be six years old, and Kimmi almost eight, and they are so excited to be big sisters. Drew and Steph are so thrilled with the news and are more excited each and every time they hear everything is going as it should. We are so happy for them, too. We can't wait to hear what they are having. I hope it is a boy or a girl. :)

Laurie left today to go to Florida. She is flying there with Mary, her patient. Mary has MS, and Laurie is her private duty nurse. Laurie is very caring, and just becomes part of the family when she cares for someone. They are flying down to be with Mary's daughter and granddaughters. Laurie is looking forward to going to the beach (she's definitely a beach girl). They are also going shopping, exploring, and visiting St. Augustine. She'll be gone nine days. I know she and Jeremy will miss each other, but I'm glad she gets this fun little break.

Megan is coming home from BYU in 17 days! It will be great having her home. I miss her a bunch and I'm looking forward to all kinds of fun times with her. She is seriously considering transferring to BYU-Idaho for next year. I am excited for her future. She has finals coming up...so send good thoughts her way!

Josh is growing like a weed. He keeps getting taller, his voice keeps getting lower, and his momma just loves him more each day. He leaves next Wednesday to go to Florida with his marching band. They get to go to DisneyWorld while they are there. They will also perform. He is still a nut for music.....jazz, marching band, playing in his band with his buddies, listening to music, going to concerts, etc.

I am so blessed. My mind is rushing right now with other things I want to write. But...I am simply going to say that I'm glad I've begun again to write a few thoughts down, and that I am blessed greatly, and that I am so grateful for each of you....family and friends...who have seen me through some tough times lately. Hugs for each one of you. You are my treasures.

Peace out.

Sad Day for US...

2008-02-07T16:51:00.000-05:00

US presidential candidate and former Governor Mitt Romney (R-MA) (L) and his wife Ann walk away after he dropped out of the presidential race at the American Conservative Union's 2008 Conservative Political Action Conference at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington February 7, 2008. Romney dropped out of the U.S. presidential race on Thursday, a decision that makes Senator John McCain the all-but-certain nominee of his party. REUTERS/Larry Downing (UNITED STATES) US PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION CAMPAIGN 2008 (USA)1:31 p.m. ET, 2/7/08

We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet

2008-01-28T12:17:00.000-05:00

President Gordon B. Hinckley

June 23, 1910 ~ January 27, 2008

Our dear prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley, passed away last night about 7:00 p.m., Mountain Time, in his apartment in Salt Lake City. He was surrounded by family members. He was 97 years old. People all over the world, both members and non-members of our Church, are mourning him today and remembering what a special man he was.

I thought I'd post a few pictures of the different faces of President Hinckley.

Above, he seems to be "knighting" Elder Henry B. Eyring, after Elder Eyring was called to serve in the First Presidency. This just seemed like President Hinckley....always having a good time.

I like this picture of President Hinkley's face....looking forward with confidence and determination.

Moses, Nephi, Joseph Smith....President Hinckley. Prophets of God.

Waving to the congregation. How he loved the children and youth of the Church. They all seemed to "know" their prophet...and love him. My children perked up whenever they saw him, or heard him speak....even when they were small. My daughter-in-law, Steph, called me today to tell me about telling Kimmi and Alli about it this morning. (they are 7 and 5). I guess Kimmi started crying....needed snuggles and comfort, and Alli was concerned. Drew and Steph were great in telling her that it is more happy than sad....but she loved him so. I remember us seeing him at the dedication of the Columbus Temple. It was thrilling for us all. Megan recently got to be with him in the Marriott Center at BYU, and listen to him leave a message for the students. She was so excited. He was so loved. What an ambassador for our Savior, Jesus Christ.

After General Conference, with his wonderful smile, waving his cane (which seemed to be its main purpose) and being followed by President Monson....a shadow of what would be.

This picture just moves me. A dad...surrounded by his loving children, at the funeral of his wife....their dear mother. He often talked of his devotion and love for Marjorie and seeing them together was precious.

Even knowing he would be with her, the separation was so painful. How difficult the last almost 4 years must have been for him without her. They were married in 1937. And now....can you imagine their sweet reunion?

I am simply overjoyed for him at this thought.

I take a moment to read in a little book called "Stand a Little Taller" almost every day. Each day there is a scripture and some words from President Hinckley.

Today's entry reads:

"Great is your power for good. Marvelous are your talents and devotion. Tremendous is your faith and your love for the Lord, for His work, and for His sons and daughters. Continue to live the gospel. Magnify it before all of your associates. Your good works will carry more weight than any words you might speak."

(That last line....THAT was President Hinckley)

Megan was the first to call me...from BYU. Cell phone lines were jammed in Provo and SLC with everyone calling after it came across the local news. She used her roommate's phone. Shane texted me and called me from Salt Lake City. Kelly, Josh and I stopped and offered a prayer. It was deeply felt that all was well....peacefulness settled in.

Throughout the next couple of hours, I spoke to each of my children, with them calling me or me calling them. I also spoke with my mom. We all felt the same thing....gratefulness, peace and the knowledge that we were blessed by having him so long.

Such love....we shall miss you, President Hinckley.

Thank you ...for your dedication, for your work, for your life.

And now.....the work continues.....because the Lord is in charge.

Did YOU Grow up in the 80's????

2008-01-25T20:55:00.000-05:00

I was reading my friend Stephanie's blog recently. She is the daughter of one of my closest friends....yes, a DEB......and Stephanie and her sister Emily are the same age as my two oldest, Drew and Michelle. They kind of grew up together.
This list made me crack up.....I remember them doing these things!!!
I am really curious, though...what happened to #20????? What do YOU think it was? Comment and try to fill me in, if you can! Thanks, Steph...these are great!

You Know You Grew Up In the 80's if:
1. You've ever ended a sentence with the word SIKE.
2. You can sing the rap to the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and can do the Carlton.
3. You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey on Blossom.
4. If you ever watched "Fraggle Rock".
5. It was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.
6. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head.
7. You got super-excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school.
8. You made your mom buy one of those clips that would hold your shirt in a knot on the side.
9. You played the game "MASH"(Mansion, Apartment, Shelter, House).
10. You wore stonewashed Jordache jean jackets and were proud of it.
11. You know the profound meaning of "WAX ON - WAX OFF"
12. You wanted to be a Goonie.
13. You ever wore fluorescent clothing. (some of us...head-to-toe).
14. You can remember what Michael Jackson looked like before his nose fell off and his cheeks shifted.
15. You have ever pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.
16. You took lunch boxes to school...and traded Garbage Pailkids in the schoolyard.
17. You remember the CRAZE, then the BANNING of slap bracelets.
18. You still get the urge to say "NOT" after every sentence.
19. You thought your childhood friends would never leave because you exchanged handmade friendship bracelets.
21. You ever owned a pair of Jelly-Shoes.
22. After you saw Pee-Wee's Big Adventure you kept saying "I know you are, but what am I?".
23. You remember "I've fallen and I can't get up".
24. You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates.
25. You have ever played with a Skip-It.
26. You remember boom boxes and walking around with one on your shoulder like you were all that.
27. You remember watching both Gremlins movies.
28. You thought Doogie Howser/Samantha Micelli was hot.
29. You remember Alf, the lil furry brown alien from Melmac.
30. You remember New Kids on the Block when they were cool...and don't even flinch when people refer to them as "NKOTB".
31. You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell," The ORIGINAL class.
32. You know all the words to Bon Jovi - SHOT THROUGH THE HEART.
33. You just sang those words to yourself.
34. You still sing "We are the World"
35. You tight rolled your jeans.
36. You owned a bannana clip.
37. You remember "Where's the Beef?".
38. You used to (and probably still do)say "What you talkin' 'bout Willis?".
39. You're still singing "Shot Through the Heart" in your head, aren't you!

Missin' My Boys...

2008-01-24T18:50:00.000-05:00

This is Toby at our house at Thanksgiving... playing with the dogs. Don't you love that smile?

Can someone please "beam me up, Scotty" to Griffin, Georgia? I am missing Toby.....it's been two months since I've seen him. I need some Toby kisses. (He is 19 months in a few days)

And....then beam me over to Mt. Airy, North Carolina. Noah is changing every day. How I miss him! It's been almost a month since I've seen him! (He is 16 1/2 months old now!)

My arms and heart are aching for my grandsons. I am going to make sure I see them soon.
We'll watch Curious George or Diego (Toby likes the "mote" also known as the remote)
We will read books (Noah hugs his and gets out all his books every day) .... play in the tub....make a mess in the high chair....sing songs....dance.....take a walk....whatever. Nana and her little guys.
Can't wait.

Noah playing and laughing on Nana & Poppy's bed at Thanksgiving. Look at him holding his feet. He thought we were so funny.

Whew....what a week!

2008-01-24T17:44:00.001-05:00

Updates:

Well, Sunday night's discussion at Church was incredible. Brother Doug Larson from Lexington/Buena Vista spoke. It was great. Josh really enjoyed it, too. He had a power point presentation...and in it he put up a picture of his mom and dad, who have passed away. He spoke quite a bit about his father. I raised my hand and asked him what his father's first name was. He said William. I told him that his father married Kelly and I in September of 1975 in the Washington DC Temple. After the discussion, we had a great time talking about that weekend. It was incredible. What fun it was to think about it all again.

Sunday night Kelly and I watched Mr. Deeds with Josh. What a great movie!! It is my FAVORITE Adam Sandler's movie. Really enjoyed watching that again.

Monday was just not fun. Received some bad news from an attorney in Ohio......an attorney that I now think perhaps we should have fired awhile back. It knocked me off my feet, along with some other things. Drew called during the lowest point, and I unloaded on him. Frustrations, fears, etc. What a terrific son I have. He told me "Why don't you come over tonight for Family Home Evening? Kimmi has the lesson." (for anybody not of the LDS faith reading this....we get together with our families one night a week...usually on Mondays, to just be together, talk about the gospel, have a fun activity and just enjoy each other. This happens lots of nights...but one is set aside...so nothing interferes. It's nice.) I told him I wasn't sure, but thanks. About 5:45...he called and I was still at the office. He asked me what I was doing for dinner....I said "making whatever I find at home." He asked Josh, Kelly and I to come to dinner with him and the fam. It was SO fun. And dinner tasted soooo good. It was just what I needed...to be with Drew, Steph, Kimmi and Alli. Fun times. Although Alli got sick.......several times. But she still wanted to be with all of us, and even "conducted" family home evening, with her dad helping her. Kimmi DID do the lesson...about Daniel in the Lion's Den. She was great. What a reader! Then we played a really fun "Go Fish" game about people and places and things from the Book of Mormon. What a smart girl. Josh and Kimmi tied.....with Drew, Kelly and I bringing up the rear. Steph was comforting Alli. Steph made yummy Rice Krispie Treats for everyone. I went home happy. Thanks, family.

Tuesday I worked hard at the office. I also had great long talks with Michelle, Jessie, Laurie and Meggie. My girls. Love them so much. Michelle actually felt a little better....and kept some soup down. Perhaps she will feel better when she gets through this first trimester. I hope so. Jessie was busy today....hope she gets a little nap. That pregnancy fatigue is killer. Meg is doing great. Making plans....setting some goals....having fun...and learning a lot. Laurie is incredible at what she does. She is doing private duty nursing now. She called me to find out how to make corn on the cob. She cooked her patient and her daughter pork chops, corn and baked potatoes. Yum.
Tuesday night, I was in charge of the Young Women's activity at Church. I did Let's Get "Purse-onal".....all about purses. Michelle gave me ideas for this and it went over GREAT! Thanks, 'chelle! I think the girls and the leaders had fun. I'm glad it's over......but it was fun for me, too!

Yesterday, I was working at the office, and my friend, Deb F. came over. (Sidenote: I guess if your name is Deb....it's a given that we are going to be great friends......Quite a few of my greatest friends are Debs. Deb C, Deb K, Deb F, Deb S.....etc. You know who you are. It's weird, because everywhere I've gone...especially at school and at different jobs, I've been called Deb or Debbie a lot. I have to correct them and tell them my name is Diane. I had one lady I worked for in Dayton, Ohio, named Bea. She ALWAYS called me Debbie....I finally decided to leave it alone. I was Debbie to her for several years...even tho' she heard everyone else call me Diane. Strange. Sorry for the ramble)
Anyway....my friend, Deb F., came into the office. She treated me to lunch at Asia Inn. Good times! Fun conversation and time to just relax. Love my buddies.
Josh and I went over to Hometown Music to see if they can fix his bongos. We went over to Petco. It was great hanging out with my son. I really like him.
Last night....Kelly, Josh and I watched American Idol. What a fun escape. Did anyone else think the female military pilot should have been sent on to Hollywood? What a rip-off.
Late last night, I was still downstairs.....and Josh had gone on to bed, and Kelly had gone up to get ready for bed. Drew stopped by late, after playing basketball at the church. Kelly came back downstairs and it was fun talking to our boy awhile.
Couldn't sleep at all last night. How do people turn their minds off? I've had a really hard time lately. This morning, I couldn't MOVE until about 8:15. Exhausted. Went to work awhile...then went over to my friend's house to drop something off and talk awhile. Yep....it was a DEB. Deb C. What a great friend.

Then back to work awhile. A long-time client came in. I love this guy. He's in his late 70's, I'd say. He works hard every single day. Today, he had been moving refrigerators. Yep...moving refrigerators. I said, "Richard....have you ever stopped for ONE day???" He said "Nope. And don't plan to. I'd just rust." Good point. He smiles ALL the time. Of course...he also owns 9 properties, has at least a million dollars in the bank, and has friends all over the valley. And has been married forever to his sweetheart. I love it when he comes in. Maybe I want to be Richard when I grow up.

Picked up Josh from musical practice at the high school. They are going to put on "South Pacific". Josh plays Quayle.....a sailor. That will be fun! Harrisonburg High School is putting on Beauty and the Beast. Our Young Women at church are going to attend both, since we have several girls in the musicals. Josh and I went over and looked at the stuff at the Thursday night auction. Had a few interesting things. Mostly it's the people that are interesting. But I am not going to go tonight. Don't want to spend anything....AND I have too much to get done here.

So why am I typing? I don't know. AND....I typed another boring "book". But I am doing this mostly for me to remember things....you are invited along for the ride...but I apologize for the mundane and everyday ramblings.

I need to go play with Sloopy. He keeps bringing me his toy. Crazy dog.

Just some Weekend Rambles

2008-01-20T15:05:00.000-05:00

Friday night, Kelly, Josh, his friend Zach and I all went to the First Ward's Chili Cook-off. Drew invited us to come and be with them. It was nice. Hearing Bishop Herrick, Brother Aamodt and Brother Adams play Neil Young's "Heart of Gold" was a highlight. I enjoyed talking with some people I don't get to see that often, and of course being with Drew, Steph and the cutest little girls in the world was lots of fun. I got to hold little Henry Swinson for quite awhile. He is a fun little baby.

Afterwards Drew's family came over for awhile. Drew, Zach and Josh played "Rock Band" downstairs. It's an interactive video game....kind of like Guitar Hero, but there is a drum set, a guitar and vocals with a microphone. Just like you are actually playing in a band. Zach brought it over, along with his XBox 360, and it has been quite the hit. I had fun being with Steph and the girls while the guys played.

After they left, Kelly wanted to read awhile and I went downstairs and played with Josh and Zach. Made them popcorn and drinks. It was SO fun! We played until after midnight! I did vocals for 90% of the time. I had so much fun "rocking out" with the boys. I got a 100% on The Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again." (of course, I set it on Easy) I even think Josh was a bit surprised that his momma could "get down" a little. He is incredible on the guitar and the drums. He plays on "expert" all the time. Amazing.

Yesterday I got to the post office just as it closed, but finally got gifts off for Ammon and Laurie. While hurrying there, I got behind a convoy of horse and buggies, must have been eight buggies. I passed the farm where they were all gathering. By the way everyone was dressed, and there seemed to be just order, not much talking or laughter, I think it was a gathering for a funeral. I love living in this valley. Sharing the land with the Mennonites....and others. Respect and appreciation. There is beauty in simplicity. I was happy to go slower and wait as the "clip-clops" turned into the farm driveway and I could "hurry along" in my machine (which doesn't make near the pleasant noise that horse's hoofs make on the street).

Met the nicest trash man. Seriously. Not just a guy getting his job done...but a really nice, helpful, happy man. Gifts come from all places.

Had an interesting "discussion" with our elderly next door neighbor. I think his wife remembers what it's like to be a teenager, but he has totally forgotten.....if he ever was one. We did make amends, though. I want to be on good terms with all around me.

Megan called from the car to tell me they probably won't get service where they are going this weekend. Her friend, Randi, who goes to school at BYU-Idaho, came down to Provo with her roommates. I guess one of her roommates' uncle has a mountain cabin in Scofield, Utah. It's about two hours from Salt Lake City. So.....the four girls are driving up for a fun weekend since they don't have school on Monday. Megan is going to try snowboarding for the first time. So....hopefully, I won't get any news of any injuries. It's hard letting them grow up......but I'm trying. I miss Megan every day. She is doing great, though....and I am so happy for her to be doing what she wants to do.

Went to church this morning. Some days it just feels wonderful to sit at church with my husband. It felt like that today. He has been busy a lot during Sunday School lately....but today we got to sit together for class, and I loved it. I like that guy. Stayed after church for choir...then came home and mixed up a tuna casserole. I haven't made one for awhile and it just sounded yummy. I made it up as I went, doing some real different things with it....so I am anxious to see how it tastes. Tonight we are going to a Youth Discussion at Church with Josh.

Then....we are going to watch a movie together since there is no seminary tomorrow. I think we are watching Mr. Deeds. Because of the snow days Thursday and Friday, they have to go to school tomorrow (it had been scheduled off for MLK Day) They will have exams Monday and Tuesday with early release at 1pm and then off on Wednesday for a Teacher Work Day.

Kelly is napping with the dogs...and Josh is out in the snow for awhile....and I think I'm going to actually sit down and read awhile. Just relax. Yep....you heard me.

BIG EXCITING MEGA NEWS!!!!

2008-01-18T17:49:00.000-05:00

Just thought I'd tell the WORLD....that I am going to be a grandma....again!!! and again!!!
Yep...you heard that right. TWICE! No...not twins. Two daughters pregnant. Michelle....and Jessie!!!! And....hold on to your seats....they are due THE SAME DAY!! Yep! August 16th!
Wow. They were both on the phone when they told us. I am so happy for them both. Both babies look healthy...they've both had ultrasounds due to some problems in the past. But all looks good!
Jessie is very tired. But feels great. Loves it when Noah takes his naps so she can lay down. Michelle? Well...she is taking great care of Toby....in between runs to the bathroom. I guess she is SO sick. Morning sickness to the max. She has lost 13 pounds in 10 days. Can't keep anything down. Feels yucky all the time. I feel for her. Wish I were closer so I could help both of them.

I told them they are going to have to work something out....like Michelle go a week early .....I will stay a week in Georgia ...then I can call Jessie...tell her she can go into labor...and stop in North Carolina for a week on the way home. Something tells me it won't quite work out that way. But whatever. It will be wonderful.

"Poppy" is so excited, too. Good stuff, this grandparenting thing. Good stuff.

Two Steps Forward...Seven Steps Back??

2008-01-18T16:40:00.000-05:00

Feeling a bit beat up lately. Heavy heart....not sleeping....some panic attacks at night. Like the other shoe has dropped...but I'm just too busy and tired to pick it up. I know...doesn't make sense. But I will be better soon. I know it. Thanks to my buddies...both in my family and out. I am loved by the best of the best. THAT knowledge is a treasure to me.

Yesterday, Kelly and I both woke up exhausted. He had been up quite a bit getting ready for a medical procedure (you can probably understand what I mean). And me....? I was making sure he took his medicine when scheduled, then worrying we were sleeping in, and the above mentioned anxiety. But....get up we did. School had already been cancelled due to the weather forecast. The weather was perfect when we left for the hospital....so dumb me...I wore little red strappy flats. We noticed Kelly's car was on Empty (I was driving). Kelly...the smart one...said we should stop. Diane....the one who thinks she is smart....said "Oh no.....we are already five minutes late. You've never run out of gas in this car...We'll be fine. We can get gas on the way home."

On to the procedure. We were at the hospital about four hours. Afterwards, Kelly was a bit groggy and a little shaky but could walk down to the door of the hospital. I sat him down and told him I would go get the car. By now.....it was a snowy mess outside....about five inches....and some very deep places where they had plowed the snow. We had to park way far away....so I finally got to the car, feet soaking wet through and through. Realized I had nothing to scrape it off with. Grabbed a legal pad from inside, and turned the car on, and began to push a pile of snow off the car. Chug-chug-cough-dead. Oh no. Got in....no luck. Gas tank was empty. So.....trudged BACK to the hospital where I told my husband we were out of gas. Now....this is LOVE. No "I told you so". But...he did grin a little. I didn't know who to call.....figured most people hadn't left their homes because things were cancelled. I thought Drew would be out though, so I called him. He had driven to Elkton and was on his way back. I told him what happened and he said he would be right there. It took quite awhile....I guess traffic was CRAZY on Route 33, people going 5 miles an hour. Kelly passed the time by telling me the same stories twice....exactly the same. (they warned me about that in post-op,.......good old amnesiac medicine) At least it was entertaining. We got him home.....and Josh helped him get settled in bed. Drew and I took the gas can back to the hospital and put gas in the car. A parking attendant came by with a broom and got all the snow off the car while Drew was adding the gas. How nice. Day was turning out just fine.

I went to the gas station, grateful for Drew helping us out. A couple quick errands and then back home. I was talking to Drew on the phone....he was driving down Route 33, a couple hundred yards from his house....we were having a nice conversation....when he interrupted by yelling....for a few long seconds....then the phone went dead. Called him back a few seconds later....he answered..."I'm OK" (gotta love that kid). So I finally breathed again. He told me he lost control going down a hill....no control at all...went into a pretty big ditch and hit a telephone pole head on. Wow. No one else involved. But the car was messed up pretty badly. Someone stopped and took him home. Long story short....the car was towed to a lot, and Drew got a rental car this morning. A TINY Chevy.....he has some funny names for it. But at least he has something to drive.

I had a bit of a meltdown yesterday. My friend, Deb C., helped me, along with Kelly....when he "woke up". We ended up watching Behind Enemy Lines together last night.....it was a great movie. Based on a true story. When Josh got home from Zach's...the movie was starting again...so Josh watched it. I explained a little of it to Josh, since he missed the first part, and enjoyed it just as much the second time. Owen Wilson was great in this. It is not a new movie.....but worth renting. I'm glad we found it on TV.

It was Ammon's birthday today. I called and wished him a happy day. He had been "iced-in" so he got to stay home from work and spend the day with his family. Nice birthday surprise!

Today is Laurie's birthday. 24 years old. 24!!!! Wow!! I miss her. This is the first birthday she has had when I didn't get to see her!!

And last Saturday was Drew's birthday. 31 years old. Wow. We watched the girls (fun for us!) while he and Steph went to the JMU basketball game. Kimmi and Alli fell asleep on the guest bed. They are adorable. On Sunday, I made a nice dinner and had them over to celebrate. We had balloons and presents. Oh...and I made Michelle's Oreo dessert and put candles in it. He loved it.

My big brother, Scott, would have been 55 last Sunday. His wife Colleen and my brother Ken's wife, Michele, also had birthdays in the last week. Wow....busy birthday week!

I know this was WAY long. To anyone who read this whole thing......all I can say is.....sorry. You must be really really nice....or bored.

Fireworks!

2008-01-14T15:47:00.000-05:00

Another bit of fireworks at the midnight hour.
Oh.... and listen for Aunt Chris' chant for the new year at the end!

Hoping 2008 turns out to be a year of peacefulness, prosperity and love for all!

2008....Let it begin!!!

2008-01-14T15:18:00.000-05:00

Ok... this is my 100th post. So...it should be something special...how about a kazoo band? Yes...two weeks ago tonight, on New Year's Eve, my Aunt Chris, Kelly and I went to "First Night" in downtown Harrisonburg. (although...technically...shouldn't it be called "Last Night"?)
It was fantastic! Megan and Josh both were with friends.....and we ALWAYS have a party with our kids. It felt weird to be home with none of my children.....so we decided to do something different.

It was great. Harrisonburg has been hosting the family-friendly event for 16 years. No alcohol allowed....only good times and good friends and good music and laughter. This started in Boston in 1976 and now there are 133 cities all over hosting their own "First Night" celebrations.

We got down there about 6:30. Walked all around in the crisp evening air filled with noisemakers and laughter and people enjoying being together. There were twenty different musical acts all over the downtown area in different venues. We saw a little rock, we watched the ever-popular Glick and Phillips...a hysterical duo of doctors who play the guitar/mandolin and sing songs of satire and do a little stand-up. Then...we ended up seeing a group called "blue stone sky"...a nice acoustical trio. Then.....we went to TWO shows of "Nothin' Fancy"...a fairly well-known bluegrass band from this area with loads of personality. They were so talented and funny.

Then....right before midnight we all gathered around the courthouse. Kazoos were being passed out to the crowd....2008 kazoos I heard, although I think that was stretching it a bit. As the countdown started, we played "Auld Lang Syne" in unison. Thus this first video. (click on the picture above for the video) I turned my camera sideways to get more of the courthouse in.....but then didn't realize I can't flip it to show it. So....skip it or get a little crick in your neck...your choice. (altho you WOULD miss all the kazoo talent)

This was our view for one of the "shows" for New Year's Eve. It was funny... to see all the people look and then smile and look at who they came with...and try not to laugh. This was a very crowded show...and notice NO ONE is sitting directly behind this guy. There was a group of people there...but they decided to find another seat. (Distractions?) As the show began, another couple couldn't believe their luck at finding such good seats and slipped in....we all waited until they noticed ...then they looked around at all of us...and everyone had a hard time keeping from bursting out in laughter. So....we all "cracked up" in relative silence. (and this guy never knew he was the "butt" of the joke)

Christine took this picture of Kelly and I just a few minutes after midnight. A little chilly...but very happy to be together for another year of adventure. And rather glad to see 2007 end.

Here we are showcasing our talent. Is that a basket on Christine's head? Yep...I think it is. Don't ask. And this was WITHOUT alcohol!

It's Been A While...

2007-12-23T00:07:00.000-05:00

Wow....I can't believe it's been almost two weeks since I posted. I need to get better at keeping up. It seems like I don't even blog about some of the big things because I get so busy....and then want to write all about it...but can't find a minute. So...I'm just going to hit a few highlights and get back to some rhythm with this thing.

On December 13, Steph had a birthday. I invited Drew, Steph, Kimmi and Alli over for dinner that night. When they got here, I think she was a little surprised that Kelly and Josh weren't here. We opened a few presents...Drew and the girls had brought theirs over. We gave her a yummy smelling candle and the movie "The Holiday" which I knew she loved.

Then the girls and I went into the kitchen....and Drew and Steph were still in the living room....we called them in and began singing Happy Birthday to her. I put some candles in a cheesecake....I didn't have 31 candles, so put in a row of 3 and then 1 candle. Alli said in her adorable voice..."Mommy's not four!" (only it sounded more like "Mommy's not foh!")

Steph blew out the candles and then I told her, as I started lighting two tapered candles and putting out the crystal and plates, etc. for only two....that there was a little twist to the night.
I had cooked dinner for the two of them and it was all ready. I was going to take the girls to McDonalds, go pick up Josh at the concert, and then we would take them home and put them to bed. She was to enjoy her quiet candlelight dinner with her husband, and then watch the movie together. In a quiet house. She didn't have to be Mommy....just Steph and enjoy the evening with Drew.

It was really fun for me, too. The girls and I did a little Christmas surprise for some friends, we went to McDonalds, picked up Josh, and went to their house. Josh helped Kimmi with her spelling words and listened as she read a book. They tore off a paper ring off their countdown to Christmas chains. We listened to their sweet prayers.

Then....Josh and I got to sit and watch a little TV together. Then Kelly came and got Josh so he could get to bed....and I got to sit in the dark, quiet family room and watch some funny shows they had recorded. So....it was a great night for me, too. And Steph seemed very grateful. I love that girl. (Even tho' she's getting old)

More updates tomorrow.

Halls are Decked.....Yay!

2007-12-11T23:51:00.000-05:00

If you haven't read the post before this.....called "Deck the Halls"...you might want to read that first....then this will make more sense. (but since when did making sense matter?)

Awwwww......Christmas cozy. Did I tell you I absolutely love decorating for Christmas?? Every minute of it. (tee-hee) I do.....really I do!

Tonight the Young Women came over to my house. There were five young women along with Tresa, Rachel and me. They made ornaments for our primary children. (at church - the 3 to 12 year olds) Glitter paint on beautiful red satin-looking balls .....each one is so unique. They all have the year and CTR written on them. So creative...some squiggles, some dots, some stars...all kinds of things. We didn't know how to let them dry, so I strung some yarn across my dining room posts and I actually think they look terrific up there. Everyone had a great time. We also made candy cane reindeer. Hung up to dry.
(I've seen deer hanging to dry before.....outside.....after hunting week....yuck.....but these are much cuter.)

Shammie, the electric cord and Josh' tennis shoes add to the look, don't you thinnk?

"Joy to the World". You betcha. Such joy....such love.

Every single item has a story. I love that.

I can't seem to take a nice picture of the tree. It looks SO much prettier than this in person. (or would that be "in tree"?) The lights don't even show up in this. But it is beautiful. Just take my word for it.

Come on in. Hot chocolate for all.

****************

Deck the Halls......?

2007-12-11T23:12:00.001-05:00

Don't you just love it when all the Christmas decorations have been unpacked...and then....you see the job in front of you...and you decide that maybe this year....one candy cane might just be enough. That never happens to anyone else???
But then....Josh says he loves it all and wants it all out...and my heart melts and memories pour into my mind and it doesn't seem like such a big job.
This is the BEFORE.
Santa's workshop in a hurricane.

Who invented these stupid lights anyway???? I know it's some big money conspiracy. We keep buying the same things over and over again...because one little guy on the whole strand decides to stop working and all his buddies decide "Hey...if he's not going to shine....then I'm not either!" Like they are part of some big light union or something.
And....sometimes it is a bit of a gang war.....on the same string.....with half deciding to glow as bright as ever and the other half pretending to play dead.
Yep....there have been some secret meetings, I'm sure of it.

Did we put out all this last year???? Are you sure??? And where, oh where are the cords for the village?

This is me on Saturday afternoon.....Can you hear my thoughts? Listen closely.
"I can do this. Merry, Merry. And BEFORE the party tonight. Yep....I. can. do. this. Josh???? Where'd you go?"

Feeling the Warm Fuzzies....

2007-12-11T22:59:00.000-05:00

I am so grateful for an optimistic husband.....and for supportive friends.....and loving children. Some days it takes all three to pull me along when I've received what I feel is bad news. And how grateful I am that I have these people in my life. You guys love me through and in spite of the gunk. Thanks for today.
I feel peaceful tonight. (and because of dubby.....I am going to take a bubble bath with some new smell-goods...and drink some IBC root beer. Not shabby. Not shabby at all. Thanks.)

The Weekend Flew By....

2007-12-10T20:27:00.000-05:00

Wow....it's Monday night already. Wasn't it just Friday? It seemed like this weekend was only a few hours long. Can we have another one tomorrow, please?

Friday night was Kelly's work party at his boss' house in Fishersville. I really wasn't excited to go because I have been to a ton of these before, and I would have loved to just have an evening with my husband...doing something just the two of us. And I didn't know ANYONE except for his boss, Scott, whom I've met a couple of times. But I went with a good attitude. I made it a point to talk with everyone there. I think there were about 20-25 people there. I really enjoyed myself. Made some new friends. We got there about 6:45 and didn't leave until 11:30 or so. Kelly was the "pool-king". He just couldn't be beat. Well, except for the last game. I know he had a great time, too. There was a hot and heavy poker game going on and lots of liquor being consumed, but no one got stupid, and everyone was really a pleasure to be with. Kelly works with some great people and they all seem to think very well of him. (One of the agents...a woman in her late 30's....referred to him as "the old veteran" when she talked about him. Cracked me up.) But I was proud to be with him and we enjoyed ourselves.

Josh had Zach spend the night and they were up until about 6am playing with Zach's new X-Box. They got up about 11:30 and helped us decorate. They got up on the roof and strung some lights. BIG production. I was a little worried one of them would fall off. They get very goofy around each other. Sloopy watched them every second....I think he thought he was the head honcho.
But...we finally finished...inside and out ...and cleaned up everything. All that had to be done was vacuuming and then putting the ornaments on the tree. We went to our Christmas party at church. Quite a few people came. When we pulled up to the house...Kelly said he wanted to go on a date. He wasn't ready to go home yet. He said, "How about Barnes and Noble?" (ears perk up) Me: "Barnes and Noble? Let me think about that.....YES!" Josh thought he wanted to go too, but then decided he was just too tired. So....Kelly and I went and spent two hours browsing and sitting together in those "magic chairs" they have there and consumed some good books.....nibbled on some others. Left without spending a dime...but it was a fun date together.

Sunday morning we went to church. I went a little early to practice the song the women's choir (seven of us) sang in sacrament meeting. We sang "O Little Town of Bethlehem". I really enjoyed our Sunday School lesson on the Book of Revelation. Bonnie does a super job...and I always go home with something I've learned and something to think about. Kelly cooked up some bratwurst when we got home. They were great. We all had kind of a lazy afternoon. I think Josh slept for 3 hours, at least. I got calls from Jessie, Michelle and Megan....and then Sunday evening, I just heated up some of my homemade chicken soup that I had in the freezer. A little later....the Christmas lights were glowing, James Taylor was singing "Baby It's Cold Outside" to me, and the kitchen was cleaned up and the dishwasher was running. I went and just sat in the living room and looked at the tree. My favorite spot for a few weeks every year. Josh came up with Sloopy and they just sat, too. The three of us...just looking at the tree. And then we talked. Peaceful.

About midnight last night, the house was so peaceful and quiet....and I didn't want to go to bed yet. I decided to go downstairs and watch TV. A rarity for me. But I took my crochet, the blankie my mom and dad gave me last year for Christmas, and some chocolate milk and went to just relax for awhile. I think I got through most of a Deal or No Deal (the hour long show that could be done in twenty minutes) and then fell dead asleep. Climbed into bed around 3am.

Today has been crazy busy. Ran around...got a few things done...and a little work at the office. I just finished writing out my list for this week. My "to-do" list. Not my "wouldn't it be nice to do" list. But the "I absolutely NEED to do each and every single thing on here" list.
Yikes. I need a wife.

But tonight...I think it's an herbal tea night....Sleepytime to be exact. And then my jammies, the dogs, my blankie, some crochet....and a little earlier relaxation time.

That list will just have to wait until 6am tomorrow. Tonight is taken.

Happy Feet

2007-12-07T00:47:00.000-05:00

Well, it is after midnight. I have had a good day. There was a two hour delay for school today. No seminary either....so a little more sleep this morning! I worked all day at the office after taking Josh to school and got a lot accomplished. I talked to each of my children today. Wow. I am absolutely crazy about my kids. They are terrific people. How cool that I get to be mom to my six best friends (besides their dad).

I chatted with Megan a little on the computer, but she was preoccupied with a big paper she wrote for one of her classes. She worked on it all day and thought she had lost it. Ahhh....computers...don't you love them? Anyway, she was freaked out and I thought she just didn't want to talk to me too badly. But, after she found her paper (whew!) and emailed it to her professor (yay!), she called me on the phone. We just hung up. We had a super conversation and I am sooo excited that I get to pick her up at the Dulles Airport in DC in 14 days and 8 hours. I have really missed her. We've all really missed her.

The Christmas decorations are almost finished around the house. Kelly and Josh will do the outside lights Saturday morning. The weather has not cooperated with us, and also we have been super busy. The inside of the house kind of looks like Santa threw up or something...but it's getting there. I LOVE getting out the Christmas treasures. Such fun....such memories. It feels like I'm arranging magic dust or something. I love it. I am going to squeeze a couple of hours tomorrow afternoon between going to the office and Kelly's work party to finish up. Maybe Saturday I can work on my cards and do a little sewing and baking. Then that night is our party at church. I seem to be able to put problems in their own little holding cell while I am doing Christmas things....I just enjoy. And so does Josh. It was fun watching him arrange the nativity. He wanted to get it just right. Kelly has been in a great holiday mood. We both love Christmas...it's fun to share all the preparations.

I listened to Trace Bundy's Christmas album about three times today. I need to get it on the blog somehow. Have no idea how to do that...but one of my children could tell me. Why do I need to know this technical stuff when I have built-in consultants who know WAY more than me?

Anyway......another purpose for my "happy dance" came this morning when I checked my gmail. There was a notice that I had a comment on my last post.....from Jason Wright! I couldn't believe it! I had gone to his website after I posted about his books...just to see what his upcoming events were. I saw he had a blog, and I went there. His post was about a negative letter he received. I thought it was awesome he shared it, and I commented on it and also mentioned I had just written about him and how he influenced me last week. I thanked him for coming. Well, I guess he clicked on my name...found my blog...and left his comment. Cool! This was really exciting for me.

Hope everyone is doing their own "happy dance"!!

Taking Time to Wipe My Glasses.....

2007-12-05T18:19:00.001-05:00

Click here to read about The Wednesday Letters

Click here to read about The Christmas Jars

It was just a week ago. One week ago tonight.
And my heart has expanded, my insides have been warmed, my resolve has been strengthened. And to think I almost didn't go.

There are those little stops in the road of life that we need to drink in. So many times, I think I have failed to stop...just whizzed on by. Or if I did stop...I didn't look around very well, didn't listen, smell, touch, feel.
But then....a moment comes and you realize that this just could be it. A step up. A beginning. A call to do better. Sometimes, we do take the time to notice. To stop and wipe our every day glasses through which we see the world.....and our vision improves.

Such a stop came to me last Wednesday. I came in rather late from the office, and just wanted to stay home. But something inside me propelled me on to go to our church and see Jason Wright, an author whose books are on the New York Times Bestsellers List.

Allison L., a good friend of mine, had seen him on the Glenn Beck Show...and after she contacted him, he said he'd love to come talk to whomever might like to hear him speak. It was a "fireside", something like a spiritual "chat", not a promotion of his books.

I wish my family would have been there with me. His story of the Christmas Jars reminded me of something we've done for years. It began long ago...when my oldest kids were young. I'm going to keep that private, though, because it's so fun to be secret....and we plan on doing it again this year. Much joy, laughter, and warm feelings have come to our family as we have shared this little tradition of ours.

Jason spoke mainly of The Christmas Jars story....how it came to be, and some ways it has affected other people as he receives letters from all over. I loved how he talked about his father, and the great man he was. His dad died while Jason was in high school. He was a "giver" and greatly influenced others, especially Jason.

Listening to him inspired me to look outward more and to realize how very blessed my family is. How very blessed I am. Just today, I met a woman named Wendy who is having a tough time. I took the time to listen. I jotted a few things down. I have a few ideas of how I can help her......a few things I am going to pass on to her. Just because I was listening. Fun!

The Christmas Jar story is a story of love, of giving, of receiving with grace. I want to read the book out loud with our family when Megan gets home. And begin our own Christmas Jar.

The Wednesday Letters is also a terrific book. A story of forgiveness and redemption....and just plain fun to read.

Afterward, I was able to talk with Jason for a few minutes. He encouraged me in my writing....but more than that, encouraged me as a human being, as a daughter of God.

I'm glad I stopped last Wednesday. I can see a bit better now.

p.s. A question for my "techie friends" out there....why can't I get a hyperlink to work on my blog? I see them on others. Thanks.

"You've Got Serious Thrill Issues, Dude...."

2007-12-04T00:15:00.000-05:00

Remember in Finding Nemo, when Crush (whom I'd love to party with) says to Nemo's dad, Marlin.......
"Oh, I saw the whole thing, dude! First, you were like, whoa! And then we were like, WHOA! And then you were like, whoa. You've got serious thrill issues dude... awesome!...."

Well, I think THIS defines serious thrill issues. Either that.....or dementia.

Click here to see the Mountain Wingsuit Madness

Wow. Cuh-Razy!

(by the way, I apologize to anyone who saw the original video I posted...it had been forwarded to us and I guess had links to sites that were not something I'd view or have on my blog. I'm glad I found that out!)

And I think driving the beltway out of Washington DC around Friday night rush hour is the about the most dangerous thing I ever do.
(wait a minute .....that really IS dangerous. Have you done that? Gives me the heebie-jeebies every time)

Ummm....Why do I do this???

2007-12-03T16:19:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel like this? Like you forgot (or chose to forgot) something you had to do that just wasn't that much fun....and then you have to stop and take care of it?
I came across this photo and it reminded me of my life this past month. All I want to do is have holiday fun and be with friends and family.......but I have to take care of things that should already be in order. So....some paperwork, some phone calls, some junk at the office.
I haven't kept up with this blog and I have tons to post. Hopefully I can catch up a little. I have so much to remember.

To.....morrow, Tomorrow!!!!

2007-11-20T22:41:00.000-05:00

Well, today is almost over. And tomorrow is almost here. And that is a good thing. Tomorrow is going to be the beginning of a terrific Thanksgiving weekend.
Kelly, Josh and I are so excited for what is in store. My brother, Ken, his wife Michele, and their two boys, Ian and Nathan are coming from Ohio to spend some holiday time with us. They will probably be the first ones here.
Then....Jessie and Ammon and little Noah will be driving up from North Carolina. I can't wait! It seems like forever since I've seen Noah! He's doing so many new things! He is beginning to "talk" quite a bit and I plan on having a long talk with him. Fun.
Then....next comes Michelle and Andrew and little Toby driving the longest...from south of Atlanta. It looks like they should get here around 9 or 10. I can't wait to snuggle with Toby again! He's walking everywhere...so it will be fun to see what he will get into. I wonder how the dogs will be with him. He loves his two dogs at home.
Then....Laurie and Jeremy are driving in from Ohio. They won't get here until about 1 am. I am so excited they get to come! They are bringing some great games for us to play....like the Movie Scene-Its. One has the action/drama "guy" movies pitted against the "chick-flicks". Cool!
And Drew, Steph, Kimmi and Alli just live up the street, so they will be here whenever we gather. I am excited to see Kimmi and Alli with Noah and Toby. They will be able to play so much more together now that the boys are older.
And...I hear that maybe my sister Beth, her husband Mike and their son Michael are coming in from Cleveland, too! That will be fun to have so many here.
I will miss Mom and Dad, Steve and his family, and Aunt Chris so much, though. Mom is making Thanksgiving dinner for them at her house in Ohio. I love being with her on Thanksgiving and it is a real sacrifice for me not to be with my mom. I will miss a number of loved ones who have passed on. I think of them during this time even more than usual.
I will especially be missing my Megan. We just couldn't get her home from BYU with paying to get her home at Christmas. I talked with her tonight. She said it just dropped about 40 degrees there and could I please send her the scarf and gloves Jessie and Ammon got her for Christmas last year. She was at the library when I called her, checking out some good reads to enjoy over this break...some Pat Conroy, the Work and the Glory book she was reading when she went out, and the first book of Joseph and Emma. Fun! And she will be hanging out with one of her best friends, Steven. They will go over to his sister's house for the big dinner. But I know it will be a little lonely for her. She loves her brothers and sisters and their spouses so much. I know she will do OK, but I'll be thinking of her every minute.
Kelly talked with his dad tonight....they live in Vancouver, Washington. I know he misses his folks and his brothers so much. I do too. They are great people. It just doesn't seem right. Everyone is just too far apart. And we are a big part of that problem.
But...I am not going to complain. I am going to enjoy this time we will have together. I will laugh, talk, play, cook, clean up, play with the little ones, cook, clean up, play games, cook, laugh some more, and clean up. No...I'm actually kidding. I will have so much help in the kitchen I won't have to do much at all. Just enjoy everyone. And I can do that.
I still need to change sheets on two beds, clean the bathrooms up here, dust and vacuum a little. Then one more trip to the store, a last "clean-up" and get ready. Then.....the cooking begins! Although we will have 22 here, I think we will have enough food for 50. I'm making a ton, and everyone is bringing things. But...lots of people for the entire weekend...so I'm sure there won't be much that goes to waste. I think 4 or 5 other people are planning on dropping by at different times, as well.
I went over to Deb F.'s tonight. She is so sweet and is lending me some goodies to make this weekend go even smoother. I planned on borrowing a table, crockpot and tablecloths. I came home with all that and a high chair, 3 oblong serving dishes, 4 corelle platters, 4 nice pillows, and a set of sheets. And a hug and something to drink for the road. Good friends are good things.
I love Thanksgiving. Although I could use a good night's sleep first. I don't do so well at that. My body's telling me I'm getting older, and maybe I should start listening to it and give it a little more rest. Don't want it getting too cranky on me.
Happy Thanksgiving!!!

The Many Faces of Meg

2007-11-16T17:54:00.000-05:00

I MISS MEGAN!!!!

And all her craziness, goofiness, sweetness and goodness.

yep...... I miss my Meggie. I talked with her two hours last night....from 2:30 a.m. my time until 4:30 a.m.
I am so glad she knows she can call her momma whenever she needs me. And...I'm so glad to be her momma. It's a nice gig. Think I'll keep it for....eternity.

Seventh Heaven

2007-11-14T00:37:00.001-05:00

Grandma with her two princesses.

On November 4th, we celebrated Kimmi's 7th birthday. Her birthday is November 10th, but their little family would be in Ohio on her birthday attending Drew's oldest buddy's wedding. So....we were invited to Kimmi's Princess Party a week early. We got her handmade invitation in the mail earlier that week. She worked so hard on it. Lots of stencils, pictures, writing. She even addressed the envelope. It took her a LONG time, I'm sure.
Steph and Drew invited our friends, the Goodman's to celebrate with us. We call them "our" friends.....Drew and Steph call them "their" friends. Hey....we can share. Joey Goodman was out of the country that weekend, but Tresa and their kids, Elizabeth and Ryan came. It was lots of fun having them there!

Kimmi and Alli LOVED the little tatoo kits Steph got them for a little pre-dinner activity. They went crazy on their own arms....especially Kimmi....and then decided Uncle Josh needed some too. So...some girlie tatoos for him (and I think he enjoyed all the attention)

For dinner, Steph had made up some great dough and had lots of different toppings for pizzas. We designed our own "personal"pizzas and they were delicious! I brought my oriental salad and Steph had a variety of things to drink. Of course...pink cups and plates. FUN...and YUMMY!

When Kimmi started opening presents, the first one she opened was a cute Princess blanket from the Goodman's. She loved it. It was wrapped in fun striped paper. Josh picked up the end and put it on his head and wore it the rest of the night. I think he looked like some kind of crazy chef.

Kimmi loved her fuzzy jammies....one of the presents Grandpa and I gave her. With new footie jammies...it will be easier to slide down their carpeted steps on her belly. They go SO fast!

Kimmi opened lots of fun presents and was so happy with each one of them. I love this picture of pure joy, though, when she opened her very own digital camera that her mom and dad got her. She was SO excited to be able to take her OWN pictures and see them in the screen right away.

Future "Very Famous Photographer" Kimberlee Diane Hebdon taking her very first picture.

Every year the girls get a "designer" cake made by their parents having to do with the theme of their party. Kimmi thought it was so terrific that there was actually a real Barbie in her "Cinderella" cake! Good job, Steph and Drew!

The Princesses and their Parents.

I LOVE this picture. I zoomed in and captured a moment that was very private. Just a dad, helping the "un-birthday" girl know how very special she is.

We got Kimmi a stationary set that turned out to be a real hit. They were writing letters left and right. Alli worked on this one all by herself at the table, and then sealed it up tight and gave to Kimmi. So sweet.

Princesses in PJ's......happily ever after. (well...at least for this little moment)

Out and About

2007-11-09T13:02:00.000-05:00

"C'mon, Poppy.....keep up!!"

"Ok...a quick smile for the camera. Now....Let's Go, Nana & Poppy!!"

"It's so fun to play outside with my dogs."

"Hey....Daddy and Poppy.....I thought we were going to watch the game! Is that how you do it?"

Fun at Toby's House

2007-11-08T16:52:00.000-05:00

The last weekend in October we decided to make a quick trip to Georgia to visit Michelle, Andrew and Toby. We missed Toby SOOO much and it had been the longest we'd gone without seeing him. I talk to Michelle at least once a day, and usually "talk" to Toby too....but even though I saw pictures and she told me all the new stuff he was doing I ached to just be with him. So I was excited Kelly got Friday off that weekend. We got to Atlanta just in time for Friday night rush hour (good planning) but we finally arrived at their house (they live just southwest of Atlanta). When we pulled into the drive, there was Michelle and Toby and the dogs...outside on the driveway. I couldn't believe my eyes. I said goodbye to Baby Toby in June, and here in October, was Little Boy Toby. We stopped at the top of the drive with our mouths open. Toby started almost "running" up the driveway hill to our car. Michelle scooped him up and we pulled in and got out of the car and he just wasn't real sure about this crazy lady and man and boy who were all googly-eyed to see him.
By the time we got inside and talked a minute, Toby was happy we were there and showed it.

He loved showing Josh his toys. "Uncle Josh" loved it.

Michelle and Andrew took us to a restaurant about 30 minutes away. It was a great place called Bugaboo Creek Steak House. It was kind of a fancy steak house with lots of personality. Terrific food. It had animals everywhere ...both real ones that were stuffed, and fake ones that looked real. And some of them would surprise you. Like....sometimes the moose would talk, or the squirrel would swing from the light, or the duck would follow you with his head. The chandeliers were all antlers or horns of different animals.
As interesting as it all was, the most interesting thing in there was Toby. He seemed to love sharing his dinnertime with Nana, Poppy and Josh. On the trip to the restaurant, I got to sit beside him in the car, and he and I had quite the "discussion". He'd pat my arm and say "Da...duh....da...da!!!"" In different tones and volumes. I would "answer" back. He would smile and we'd start again. Sometimes we were quite loud, but we had a lot of catching up to do.

In the restaurant he was so fun to watch. He sucked on a lemon, and offered some to Michelle. (above picture)
He got spaghetti for dinner...... and he can slurp those babies up like a pro. Made his Nana proud.

Oh....and I can't forget Michelle and Andrew's other "kids". Bailey and Hayes. They were pretty glad to see us, too, and came up to us often for snuggles and loves. I do love my "grand-dogs".

Three Missing Posts

2007-10-25T00:30:00.000-04:00

I was talking to Mom today and she told me that she and Dad spent a couple hours last night reading my blog all the way back to August sometime. She was talking about all the posts, and loved seeing pictures of everyone. As I asked her about different ones, she'd say, "oh yes..." and then we'd talk about them. It was fun. But she didn't remember any of Noah's party when I asked her about them...or about the professional pictures of Toby. So...today, I was kind of looking back, and imagined her reading the posts and looking at the pictures, and I noticed they weren't on there. So, I looked at my "edit post" page, and there were 4 drafts for the same week. I remember I was having lots of trouble getting the pictures to show up bigger if you clicked on them. I had a super long post about "Saturday in the Valley" that I tried and tried to fix. That one still isn't working. But I finally figured out how to fix three of the posts.
So....if you would like ...there are three more posts that just showed up.
They are on 9/5, 9/7 and 9/11/2007. (one about our Utah trip, one of Toby's pics, and one of Noah's birthday) I'll get the other one figured out soon.
Things I want to remember, but also thought those who read this might like to know, in case they'd like to take a peek.
I'm learning this Blogger-thingy. Slow but sure.

Birthdays for Brothers

2007-10-23T16:07:00.000-04:00

Kelly and I both have "little brothers" who celebrate birthdays on October 21st. Kelly is the oldest of four boys. In birth order...Kelly, Mark, Corey and Bob. (But in this picture....it's Kelly, Bob, Corey and Mark. Go figure.) Well, it was Corey's birthday Sunday. He is officially old now. (I can say that because I'm two years older) He lives in Vancouver, Washington. He has a great wife, Terri, and two beautiful daughters. Corey loves to fish. And according to my father-in-law, Corey is one of the greatest fishermen in the Northwest. I don't doubt it. I've enjoyed his bounty before.
Corey's voice sounds EXACTLY like Kelly's. It's hilarious. He has quite a "colorful" vocabulary sometimes, and the kids' heads turn pretty quickly when they think it's their dad.
Kelly's brothers are a fun, crazy bunch. It is quite the party when they get together. Miss all you guys!

And my 'little brother', Ken also celebrated a birthday. I miss him tons and love to talk with him. He lives in a beautiful area northwest of Columbus. I love to visit there. His wife, Michele,was his high school sweetheart and I am absolutely crazy about his two boys, Ian and Nathan. I could hang out with them for hours and never stop laughing or learning.
Ken is the smartest person I know. I have said that for years and years. I've met lots of people and I still think it's true. I think it started when he was about six and would read our World Book encyclopedias and reference picture books for fun. He knows something about just about everything. Bring up anything...like... the history of Zimbabwe, or ham radios, or what made the Big Red Machine so great in the 70's, or New Zealand sheep. Just anything. You'll learn something. I promise. But he is a humble guy and you have to get him talking and then just listen. Just enjoy.
However, he is anything but a nerd. He's a sports nut, and likes a good fart joke better than just about anybody. I know this and love to listen to him tell jokes. I try and get him going and then just enjoy his laughter. I got him a gift a couple of years ago that I KNEW he would love. No question about it. And he did. It was a book of gross smells....it was a scratch and sniff book.
Yep...my smart brother is and will always be about 11 years old as far as his humor goes.
One more reason to love him. Happy Birthday Ken!!!

Two Years for Lo & J....(otherwise known as J-Lo)

2007-10-23T12:30:00.001-04:00

Yesterday marked two years since Laurie and Jeremy were married in the Columbus Ohio Temple. What a FUN day that was! They are back in C-bus now. Jeremy is working at Verizon and Laurie is a Certified Nursing Assistant at a nursing home, overseeing the work of other CNA's.
I miss you both so much. It's so fun to have you around. You have grown together and it is great to see what wonderful friends you are to each other.
I'm so excited we might have you here for Thanksgiving!!!
Enjoy each other!

A complete 180.....

2007-10-21T22:17:00.000-04:00

First of all, I posted SIX times tonight. Blogger will only let me put four pictures on each post. I couldn't decide, so I used them all. So....to get this in order, go down to "They Left the Light on For Me"...with a picture of a bed with a quilt. And read up. It may make more sense. Or....be a rebel and read from here down. We all need a little excitement in our life.

The reason I put this picture up (click on it to view it larger), is while I was driving the back roads Thursday afternoon, I saw all kinds of signs. Some showed just a slight curve coming up, some showed a winding road, and I saw a number of these. Showing I must follow the road and turn completely in the opposite direction.
I thought about my life. Sometimes a slight curve is all I need. Just change something a little bit. Do a little better. Try a little harder.
Sometimes, I am on a winding road. Up and down, twists and turns. I must hold on to the wheel, and pay attention so I don't swerve off the road. Soon things will straighten out again.
And sometimes, I know I must completely turn the other way. That I need to change direction.
I want to stay on the road. I want to enjoy my journey. I am grateful for the road signs in my life.