tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8999513027026252542024-02-08T08:01:43.102-08:00Gramma's "Wit"Gramma's "Wit"Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-21373494981094942192012-05-10T23:43:00.000-07:002012-05-10T23:43:01.365-07:00And The Year Goes Marching On!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, April started out like March- with the passing of another family member. My Uncle Roger Pugmire (married to my dad's sister Janene) passed away after battling with ALS (or Lou Gherig;s Syndrome). My Aunt said he was very peaceful at the end and ready to go. He was such a kind, fun and generous man. He was involved in keeping history alive down in the Bear Lake valley. He and Aunt Janene worked for and built up much of the Oregon Trail Museum. They were in a square dancers group for several years and they also served a five year mission at the Paris Tabernacle for the church. I love my uncle very much.... he and Aunt Janene were one of the "safe" places of my childhood. He will be missed greatly by our family. </div>
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Top left photo is Uncle Roger... then Aunt Janene at the dinner following the services. I also got some really nice pictures of my two sisters and me and Mom and Daddy. Although it was a sad occasion, it was fun to see a lot of relatives I don't get to see much of. Even "met" one cousin I hadn't seen since we were just tiny children. </div>
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Following the funeral for my Uncle, I spent a few days with Donnie and Katie and the boys. We had such a fun time together! Man those boys are growing way too fast! I just love being with them and watching each of them with their individuality... It's such a wonder to me that I can be so close to each of them in unique ways that just fits. </div>
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Arm wrestling, kite flying, playing at the park... all kinds of fun! We laughed at the picture of Katie in her hoodie! There's been a lot of conversation in the news about hoodies lately so we had to take that picture. At one point (see bottom middle pic) Blake got so dizzy he about passed out! Haedon was crazy fun, Carter busy being Carter (he he) and Nash just running from the swings to the slide to the jungle jim- all of us swinging and climbing and thoroughly relishing our time together. </div>
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Took a trip over to Idaho Falls to see the O'Connors for a little while. Again we had so much fun. I can't believe what a joy and privilege it is to be Gramma to so many awesome children. Eliza was her usual sweet self..even made me a paper cheetah which is her favorite big cat right now (I will have to take a picture and edit it in later). Evie ran around giggling and taking hundreds of pictures with Phoebe trying to help and Tommy kept loving on Gramma. </div>
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Of course we all had to take a picture on Gramma's lap.. first a nice one and then a funny face one. Amanda at 9 months pregnant looked as beautiful as always. Busy momma with a house full of busy kids. And this Gramma loves to see them all. </div>
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Once again I got to have some quality River time. I got her for a whole day and took her to see Mikey and Mailei and Maddy's music festival on the 18th. She was adorable as always and just loved and loved on her Gramama. </div>
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River has such a fun personality! She tries so hard to "talk" and just laughs and smiles so much. She has this thing she does when she accomplishes something, where if someone says "VICTORY!"- she will raise her arms and hands up with a huge smile. She is still a momma's girl, but she loves her daddy so much. I think one of the most tender things I've seen is her sweet smile of adoration when her daddy gets out his ukulele and sings to her. Between her mom and dad's personalities, this little girl will be something pretty awesome!</div>
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The music festival for the Pocatello Charter school on the 18th was amazing! I am so thrilled I got to see it this year! Each grade or crew performed a theme song or two around Native American history and the choirs that Heather accompanies performed. They started out by coming in and surrounding a section of the auditorium and singing a beautiful hallelujah acapella song... it was so cute- River was singing right along with them (and quite loudly too!). </div>
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The choirs were really really good. It was very emotional for me to see the love of music carrying on down through some of my grandchildren. And I have to say I was more than a little proud of my daughter Heather too. She was acknowledged with appreciation and flowers at the end of the program- I'm so glad she stuck with her piano all these years. She plays so beautifully and another fun thing was seeing how well loved she is by the other kids at school... I remember loving to be around my children's friends and peers as they were growing up. I think it is really good for parents' relationship with their children to be involved at school, church and to know who their friends and peers are. </div>
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After the festival we met Brady and Jade for pizza. River was pretty happy to see her mom and dad. The other kids were happy to see them too! Uncle Brady and Aunt Jade and River are pretty popular in our family with all the kids. </div>
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Last but not least- he he he- I just had to post a picture of Haedon and Gramma sharing a moment of craziness! I saw this cartoon that said, "When I'm old I don't want people saying "what a sweet, little old lady" - I want them to say - "Oh crap! What is she up to now?" Yup, that's how I roll... this way no one will ever know if I'm crazy by choice or by happenstance....<br />
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Gonna close for now... Mother's Day is coming up this weekend so I'm hoping to have some fun things to post next week. Posted with love and gratitude as always... counting my blessings and loving my family. <br />
<br />Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-33755317932584318752012-04-12T11:06:00.000-07:002012-04-12T11:06:05.919-07:00Another Month in the Life of....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It has been another eventful time... some trials and many blessings.... some fun and some sober times. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My niece, Wendy, lost her husband Garth to cancer. It was a quick breath taking time from the time he was diagnosed in November to his loss in March. He was just 48 years old and his loss devastated her and the family for her. He was such a blessing to her at a time in her life that she needed to find stability and joy and know that she was thoroughly and unconditionally loved. Her children, especially the youngest who has known no other dad, will miss him greatly and his children were nearly inconsolable. They were all raised in the gospel though, so they know that he lives on and will be there for them in spirit and to greet them at the end of their time here on earth. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The week of March 19th through the 24th was very, very busy! The Boise Philharmonic Orchestra and Master Chorale performed Brahms Requiem. Monday, Tuesday & Thursday we had rehearsals; Friday evening, Saturday morning and Saturday evening we had concerts. Friday evening was out here in Nampa at NNU; then we did a Saturday "casual" matinee partial performance in the morning at The Morrison Center followed by a full performance Sat. evening there. This music is absolutely glorious! Most requiems are about funerals and death... kinda dark. This requiem looks at death and the ones left to grieve. It was so very beautiful and moving. One solo is about a mother's feelings and assurances to her son that is grieving. This music spoke to my heart as I imagined my grandmother reaching out to assure us from heaven. It was probably the most challenging music I've ever participated in by far... and some of the most rewarding. I feel so blessed to be a part of this great choir. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bX0dfGqTEpg/T4cOanLOj1I/AAAAAAAAAqI/hhzbmGjf9uw/s1600/Brahms+Requiem++March+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bX0dfGqTEpg/T4cOanLOj1I/AAAAAAAAAqI/hhzbmGjf9uw/s400/Brahms+Requiem++March+2012.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For spring break this year Mike, Heather and the kids came to visit. Heather and Mike went on to Seattle for a little getaway and the kids stayed with Gramma and Grampa! We had so much fun! The kids were very good and they were especially good for Grampa and aware of his need to rest throughout the day. Each time he would go to the bedroom to rest, they would all calm down and Molly would go in to "check" on him off and on. Grampa was very touched by her concern. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the activities we did was making pictures on our V-Teck art game that you hook up to the TV. Mikey didn't try it-- it looked a little babyish to him, but the girls loved it. We also have a whiteboard easel that they love to draw on and a huge stock of paper, crayons, markers, colored construction paper, glue, glitter... but we didn't get to the paint! Oh well, I think the kids still had a blast!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x4WI2rUguSc/T4cOVoL6JuI/AAAAAAAAAqA/unMQJvdfdsA/s1600/Art+work+at+gramma's+house++3-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x4WI2rUguSc/T4cOVoL6JuI/AAAAAAAAAqA/unMQJvdfdsA/s400/Art+work+at+gramma's+house++3-2012.jpg" width="308" /></a></div> Fun at the park! There was this spinning thingy that the kids just loved... as you can tell by their faces! We had kinda gloomy weather, but the day we went to the park the rain cleared up and it warmed up just enough for us to have a fun, fun time! <br />
We had a bubble day too! It was super fun... Molly and Maddy really cracked me up wearing a couple of my jackets... they drowned them, but oh how they loved wearing them! <br />
While the kids were here, it was interesting that Maddy just kept loving and loving on Scooter. Molly was afraid of him for a bit, but she finally warmed up enough to pet him too. Of course Scooter LOVES it when kids come to visit! The funny thing is he's getting old too! He plays for a bit, then he has to take a break just like Grampa! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pn9Kk5PC-jo/T4cOghg7t1I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/wC6ovdulN2o/s1600/Spring+Break+March+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pn9Kk5PC-jo/T4cOghg7t1I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/wC6ovdulN2o/s400/Spring+Break+March+2012.jpg" width="308" /></a></div> Of course it's not complete without some input from the other kids too! So while the Barlows were here Gramma got picture messages from the Lindsay boys (being crazy as always---can't wait to get crazy with them) and from River with her "flat" smile we all love so much and doing the army crawl! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4LY64EYAA8/T4cOiacjqRI/AAAAAAAAAqY/Dgv77Y-Hs3k/s1600/The+other+kids++3-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4LY64EYAA8/T4cOiacjqRI/AAAAAAAAAqY/Dgv77Y-Hs3k/s400/The+other+kids++3-2012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> I just had to include these pictures of the girls and gramma with our masking tape whiskers... we actually did this when I was down there for Garth's funeral... it was a moment of fun that lightened the purpose of this trip. It actually started with Molly... but we soon all joined in. Except Mikey... he just watched us and laughed at us - but check out his "rock star" pose with the pink guitar! he he he! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MRHA__ZGy9w/T4cOlbenU1I/AAAAAAAAAqg/rJLsM_t5nK0/s1600/nutty+girls+++3-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MRHA__ZGy9w/T4cOlbenU1I/AAAAAAAAAqg/rJLsM_t5nK0/s320/nutty+girls+++3-2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In closing- I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter! Hope everyone enjoyed conference (it was truly wonderful this year and very family oriented)- </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's a picture of River on her first Easter- looks like she's saying "Hi Gramma!" </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DECmSY7sA-4/T4cO1fq3mYI/AAAAAAAAAqo/Qr-FmzKDG6A/s1600/Easter+4-08-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DECmSY7sA-4/T4cO1fq3mYI/AAAAAAAAAqo/Qr-FmzKDG6A/s400/Easter+4-08-2012.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> And here's a very happy, tired out Brooke Anne on Easter... with chocolate and yummy showing on her face... he he he. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q85xJb-2bcQ/T4cW8OUaUeI/AAAAAAAAAq4/W5XkDsE5MZ8/s1600/Easter+outing+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q85xJb-2bcQ/T4cW8OUaUeI/AAAAAAAAAq4/W5XkDsE5MZ8/s400/Easter+outing+2012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Will be posting again soon.... heading back to Blackfoot, Poky, IF this weekend... posted with love and gratitude as always by a Gramma who loves her family and feels so blessed!Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-14265005862381131932012-03-08T15:34:00.000-08:002012-03-08T15:34:22.634-08:00Help! It's March!! The Year Is Getting Away From Me!!I had these great intentions of blogging for sure every other week... back in January! WHOA!! What happened? Ummm- I guess life happens! My sweet niece's husband passed away this week and I found myself pondering on the importance of living and loving every day, every moment with all my heart and giving more time to the things I love (family, church, home, friends, etc.) and less time lounging with books and puzzles... and even cut back on my computer (facebook) time. I need to be the daughter, friend, wife, mom, gramma, sister, - well you get it - Heavenly Father knows I can and should be. <br />
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So- great intentions aside, I am finally back to my blog. It has been a busy, interesting couple of months. Instead of trying to post a lengthy articulation... I'll post some picture collages with a bit of explanation and description of each. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PZZYy1YS8oc/T1k8K60NeuI/AAAAAAAAAnA/06DWlEW8syY/s1600/Gramma%2527s+night+with+River++2-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PZZYy1YS8oc/T1k8K60NeuI/AAAAAAAAAnA/06DWlEW8syY/s400/Gramma%2527s+night+with+River++2-2012.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">River got to spend the night with us! We had such fun and she was so so good. I was amazed that she slept nearly 10 1/2 hours through the night! She has decided she loves her Grammama very much! She was so cute with Grampa-she'd smile at him, jabber at him, then duck and hide in my shoulder. I am looking forward to many more visits and overnight stays with my River girl!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uANqRgR1D8k/T1k8OyiunEI/AAAAAAAAAnI/7XSbjkD83Xc/s1600/Happy+Cousins...+2-2012++++together+at+the+Barlow+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uANqRgR1D8k/T1k8OyiunEI/AAAAAAAAAnI/7XSbjkD83Xc/s400/Happy+Cousins...+2-2012++++together+at+the+Barlow+House.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We had a family get together at Heather's house and all the cousins had a blast! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tf0jpfQpYKQ/T1k8u__eMEI/AAAAAAAAAnY/H625KFQSMAc/s1600/Feb+2012++fun+at+Grandma+Witt's+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tf0jpfQpYKQ/T1k8u__eMEI/AAAAAAAAAnY/H625KFQSMAc/s400/Feb+2012++fun+at+Grandma+Witt's+house.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When Jim came to Pocatello to get me, we had a really good visit with his mom (Grandma Esther) and a couple of his kids and their families. We get pretty crazy sometimes... this Gramma is as kookoo as her grandkids!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBGZ8Y-4LOQ/T1k8y_ct-YI/AAAAAAAAAng/Z2NMsulT71I/s1600/Maddy+and+Gramma+-+funny+lips+++2-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBGZ8Y-4LOQ/T1k8y_ct-YI/AAAAAAAAAng/Z2NMsulT71I/s400/Maddy+and+Gramma+-+funny+lips+++2-2012.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So-Mailei had this valentine that had this lip shaped chocolate. After she ate the candy, well we had the plastic lip shape thingy and it was just too tempting not to play! Maddy and I win! No-one else could keep it on their lips... Maddy struggled, but she got it! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWiCuuR4BT0/T1k82ncTWII/AAAAAAAAAno/5UEd5pR0MhI/s1600/Mikey's+birthday+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWiCuuR4BT0/T1k82ncTWII/AAAAAAAAAno/5UEd5pR0MhI/s400/Mikey's+birthday+2012.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the last couple of years Mikey and I celebrate his birthday when I can get there.. this year it was in Feb. (His birthday is Jan. 29th)- by going to Buddy's and then shopping for his present. We have so much fun as you can see... I really like the head on the table and the headless body...bwaahaahaa.... and he really likes his game! We decided to try to make it a yearly tradition.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So this is how I spend my time... he he he! Oh- and I spend my time at home taking care of Jim and</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Scooter and Brooke and going to church and facebooking and reading... and life is pretty okay right now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love my family and my friends and my spouse and my dog and my church and through everything.. the </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">good, the bad, the norm and the challenging... I know my Heavenly Father watches, loves, and cares. </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-49676702101266575702012-01-10T23:30:00.000-08:002012-01-10T23:45:59.253-08:00Wrapping Up 2011 With Family, Fun, And Tons Of Love!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So another year is over and the new one has just started. As I look back over 2011 I am once again amazed and humbled by the many blessings in my life. Jim and I definitely have our trials- mostly health issues- but we are abundantly blessed with the joy and love of our family. We watch as our children are raising their children - living lives of integrity and decency and love. Each of them with a partner in life that they adore and that gives them the love and support they deserve. We watch as Brooke Anne continues to grow- how she is starting to "outgrow" some things and learning to appreciate new things. Her world is ever expanding- and again, I am so grateful for the people that live and work with her. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As the year drew to a close, as we celebrated the birth of our Savior, we were blessed again and again to be with and celebrate with much of the family. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our "first" celebration was of course, just Jim and I and Brooke Anne- as has been our Christmas every year-especially mine since her birth. She was happy to be home once again, just hanging out with us. For the first time she tried to say Scooter instead of Muffin (she has called him "Muff" because he looks so much like our little Muffin we had years ago). She was not overly interested in opening gifts... she'd open one, then after a while open another. It has been this way with her since she was little. I think Jim was more excited to have her open the necklace and earrings he gave her than she was... although she proudly modeled them later on. We just love her so much and I can't imagine my life without her. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eH7TQNLwi0/Tw0sGU7m3FI/AAAAAAAAAmw/MA9V9WQOt9c/s1600/Brooke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eH7TQNLwi0/Tw0sGU7m3FI/AAAAAAAAAmw/MA9V9WQOt9c/s400/Brooke.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next on our "holiday" agenda- Malaya's baptism. Jim took a really bad turn with his pain and his back the day before we were to travel to Pocatello and Shelley. The doctor firmly restricted him from traveling, so I went alone as Jim desperately wanted at least one of us to be there for her. It was very sweet. We bought her a white dress and when she came out of the dressing room after being baptized I found myself in tears. She looked so sweet and beautiful. Got to see a lot of that side of the family too- just didn't get enough pictures there... I think I was too busy visiting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2NRagURCcZY/Tw0r8Ib5QwI/AAAAAAAAAmo/zXVC9-TCT4g/s1600/Malaya%2527s+Baptism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2NRagURCcZY/Tw0r8Ib5QwI/AAAAAAAAAmo/zXVC9-TCT4g/s400/Malaya%2527s+Baptism.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the baptism and luncheon at Josh and Tringle's, we had my side of the family holiday get together at Donnie and Katie's house. Oh my goodness we had so much fun! The girls loved their tutu skirts and fairy halos.. Mailei got a sequined hat... and the boys each loved their toys... Nash and Haedon especially loved their little flashlights. I think the big kids liked theirs too.... Jim had picked out all the grown-up kids' gifts this year and it was fun watching them open them. Donnie, Mike and Brady of course each got a knife and Heather, Katie and Jade got - what else?- jewelry! We had this activity where we each told what we loved and appreciated about our parents... the kids were all so sweet and the grownups were very thoughtful and funny at the same time. It was a wonderful moment of sharing that I will treasure always... and I think a new tradition for us each year. I sometimes am overwhelmed at the depth of love and joy I share with my children. I am truly, truly so very blessed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VDh_5ThuedI/Tw0rtyqMqXI/AAAAAAAAAmg/Bf-FQgRE3aI/s1600/Gramma%2527s+kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VDh_5ThuedI/Tw0rtyqMqXI/AAAAAAAAAmg/Bf-FQgRE3aI/s400/Gramma%2527s+kids.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I took so many pictures it was hard to pick which ones to post. These family shots were really fun... I love the one of the grownups where Donnie is pulling a funny face (he thought we were doing a funny face pose I guess)- The one with Gramma and the kids pulling faces looks to me like River is saying - What am I supposed to do here? I think River managed to get in more pictures than anyone... everyone wanted to hold her and her mommy and daddy are never far away from her. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EMHDcFxMV1E/Tw0riJqeX6I/AAAAAAAAAmY/4RztrjdqaEI/s1600/Family+shots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EMHDcFxMV1E/Tw0riJqeX6I/AAAAAAAAAmY/4RztrjdqaEI/s320/Family+shots.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The day after the party with the kids, Heather and her kids and I headed out to visit with Great Grandparents. First we went to Grandma Esther's- the kids just love going there. It was so sweet-Mikey just kept giving her hug after hug- and when we left he said, "I just felt like Grandma needed a lot of hugs today." He is a sweet boy and very thoughtful of others. (I hear Grandma Esther has been raving about Mikey's hugs to everyone she talks to!) Then off to Granny & Grandpa Toomer's (or as Molly says- Granny and Grampa Tuner). It was so good to see them. I miss them all the time. My mom is getting more and more forgetful and it's hard to see, but Daddy takes good care of her. It is going to be really hard for him when he can't and some of us are afraid that time is coming sooner than he realizes. I don't know if she has ever truly realized just how much he cherishes her. They were both very happy to see us all! Grandpa kidded and teased the kids just as he did Heather and her siblings when they were growing up and Granny just kind of loved on everyone. It was a good visit and I am really thankful that Heather and kids came with me. It is hard to travel alone so much. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8PfE-0Sao0/Tw0rNmAOJII/AAAAAAAAAmQ/pkTzr_vhyZI/s1600/Great+Grandparents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8PfE-0Sao0/Tw0rNmAOJII/AAAAAAAAAmQ/pkTzr_vhyZI/s400/Great+Grandparents.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">While we were at Grandpa and Granny "Tuner's"- Molly had us each sit with her little ballerina bear so she could take a picture of us. That's one of the things I really love about my family- we are not afraid to be silly and goofy and still know how to play. We love each other deeply and no matter how many years or miles may separate us from each other, we are there in a heartbeat when there is a need. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPoYihbkBvQ/Tw0q6v7lqSI/AAAAAAAAAmI/nX6LTr6tZHs/s1600/posing+with+Molly%2527s+bear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPoYihbkBvQ/Tw0q6v7lqSI/AAAAAAAAAmI/nX6LTr6tZHs/s320/posing+with+Molly%2527s+bear.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally - our last Christmas celebration was this past weekend. Jon and Katrina came here with the kids so we could open gifts with each other. Again, we had a blast! These kids are so thoughtful... it has been such an honor to see them grow- especially Sam. He is now 13 and has become quite an awesome young man. Oh he still gets crazy and silly with Gramma, but he is a good, good boy. I love all these kiddos so so much. Trying to get pictures with everyone smiling or looking in the same direction was quite a conundrum! Jacob cracked me up so much with his Paper Jamz guitar... he was born to rock that kid! Tabitha was all princess in her tutu and had fun playing with some of Gramma's baby dolls...she was very gentle with them. Aaron and Ben had tons of fun with their new toys too! It was a great time for all of us and it really made Jim's holidays complete. He was just beaming with love and happiness to have his kids come here to see him. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KOV86LmpwfE/Tw0qZux30wI/AAAAAAAAAl4/i1Qj4ulBI9k/s1600/Jon%2527s+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KOV86LmpwfE/Tw0qZux30wI/AAAAAAAAAl4/i1Qj4ulBI9k/s400/Jon%2527s+family.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All in all this was a fabulous holiday season for us! Jon and Katrina gave me a beautiful Children's Songbook that I have been longing for... made me cry of course. Besides all these family times and blessings, I got to sing the Messiah with Boise Master Chorale and Orchestra, participate in our ward Christmas program for Sacrament meeting on Christmas Day.... and it all means that much more since we know the purpose of this glorious time of year - to celebrate the birth of our Savior- to be reminded again of the gift of His life and all that it made possible for each of us. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p_02WUoTE-Q/Tw0qqYJamLI/AAAAAAAAAmA/u-m0JMfg3FQ/s1600/Christmas+memories.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p_02WUoTE-Q/Tw0qqYJamLI/AAAAAAAAAmA/u-m0JMfg3FQ/s400/Christmas+memories.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So- goodbye 2011 and welcome 2012! Can't wait to see and experience all that the new year has in store for me and mine. Whatever comes our way, we will all be in it together in love and joy and the knowledge that we have a loving Heavenly Father watching over each and every one of us. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WMWGaTyAIX8/Tw099y39GtI/AAAAAAAAAm4/34hHn_Fq8kc/s1600/Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WMWGaTyAIX8/Tw099y39GtI/AAAAAAAAAm4/34hHn_Fq8kc/s400/Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Posted by a humble, grateful Gramma. </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-54292084399167442512011-12-02T15:31:00.000-08:002011-12-02T15:31:17.073-08:00November 2011 - Here and Gone So Fast! Sheesh!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6VsaqX-HCA/TtlVwHVnnjI/AAAAAAAAAkw/MijwwR-CFJw/s1600/Carter%2527s+Baptism+11-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6VsaqX-HCA/TtlVwHVnnjI/AAAAAAAAAkw/MijwwR-CFJw/s400/Carter%2527s+Baptism+11-2011.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">So November was an exciting, busy month this year. We started it out with Carter's baptism on the 5th. There is no joy like watching your grandchildren grow and blossom... watching them learn and display the integrity and character that will carry them into adulthood. </div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span id="goog_792272928"></span><span id="goog_792272929"></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">After Carter was baptized we all went and watched him play basketball, then back to share lunch and celebrate this awesome little man. He is so full of zest for life! He has such a funny personality and yet has depth beyond his years. He is also a little artist- always drawing. It was a wonderful weekend for this gramma! </div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">During that trip to SE Idaho, I got to see other grandkids... Heather's family; Jonathon's; Justin's, and Brady's. I'm trying to make my trips so that I take turns seeing the kids - I haven't done very good at that in the past and I hate to think I may have hurt any feelings.... so look out kids when Gramma comes "whirling" through!</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">On the 18th & 20th the Boise Philharmonic Choir and Boise Baroque Orchestra put on a Mozart/Back concert. It was some of the hardest music I've ever sung, yet some of the most beautiful too! It was exhausting, yet totally filled my soul. I love classical music so much... the beauty of it is so inspired and just fills the heart and soul. </div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Then for Thanksgiving, Donnie & Katie came here for the weekend and Brooke was here for a few days. We had lots of fun and got to celebrate Blake's birthday a little early. We went to Red Robin (his choice) to eat. While we were sitting he noticed some of the RR staff singing to another birthday patron and he looked at us all and said "oh no- don't you do it!" Which of course we ignored! It was so funny- they tried to get him to stand up on his chair but he is so tall now that he was bumping into an overhanging blimp thingy- so he had to just kneel on his chair. They put balloons around his neck and oh did his little cheeks turn rosy as they announced his birthday to the whole restaurant and then sing to him! (I can't believe he is 11!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pTMgGT0lTts/TtlYguEbEcI/AAAAAAAAAlI/sOubC0rfGAo/s1600/IMG_0763478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pTMgGT0lTts/TtlYguEbEcI/AAAAAAAAAlI/sOubC0rfGAo/s400/IMG_0763478.jpg" width="278" /></a></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Blake is so much fun! He is so tall! He will soon be taller than his parents and Gramma! He is a hard working kid who loves, loves to read! In fact his mom has to get after him to put down his books once in a while. But how wonderful is that?! He has such a special place in my heart... I remember when they lived her in Nampa, he and I would go on these special "dates".. to the movie or McDonald's or dollar store (or all three!). I once told him that when he got to be a teenager and started dating girls his age, he should tell them his first "date" was with his Gramma! His reaction was pretty funny! </div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Granny Toomer was in Boise at my niece Jesse's house so we got to go in and see her. Brooke was so happy to see her! She loved and kissed on her and made Granny sit right down by her and rub her back. Granny Toomer was happy to see Donnie and his family too! She is getting frail and it is a bit frightening... but she did look better than she has for a while (even though she needed help getting down the stairs). I love my mom so very much- it is heartbreaking to see her getting frail with age. </div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWqP2y_sO3A/TtlZXLgRWEI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/ru7WLI03VaA/s1600/IMG_0741471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWqP2y_sO3A/TtlZXLgRWEI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/ru7WLI03VaA/s400/IMG_0741471.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Brooke with her Granny</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWRo74_QTCg/TtlZcP-0o6I/AAAAAAAAAlY/Oo_sqhrc76w/s1600/IMG_0739473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWRo74_QTCg/TtlZcP-0o6I/AAAAAAAAAlY/Oo_sqhrc76w/s400/IMG_0739473.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Carter, Blake & Granny</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div>Brooke was so happy to be home! She loves being here with Jim and I. He is so good to her- we are both so blessed to have him in our lives. He walks with her whenever she is home. It was so cute, she heard him asking Scooter if he wanted to go for a walk and she came out of her room with her shoes on, a giant smile and signed "walk".... she wanted to stay close to him most of the time. When things got a little hectic for her she came out of her room with a pair of Jim's jammy pants on, her shoes, and signed "go"... she was ready to go back to some peace and quiet. But she loved seeing Donnie... she so loves her siblings. And of course she made Katie sit and rub her back too! :) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J_xa3G690Pk/TtlaWnLxXII/AAAAAAAAAlg/c5dcFkR7JGk/s1600/100_1687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J_xa3G690Pk/TtlaWnLxXII/AAAAAAAAAlg/c5dcFkR7JGk/s320/100_1687.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was so cold! But she wasn't about to let him go without her!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CwdH9V3uoLg/Ttlatgc544I/AAAAAAAAAlo/CuLTmC0I_gc/s1600/100_1689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CwdH9V3uoLg/Ttlatgc544I/AAAAAAAAAlo/CuLTmC0I_gc/s400/100_1689.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Playing with her beloved "koosh" </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh! I almost forgot- the boys and I had a "slumber party" in the living room on Friday night! It has become one of my traditions when grandkids come here or when I stay with them to try to have a night where we watch movies, stay up late and sleep out together! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--DY1aEDA1X0/TtlbdSoMkbI/AAAAAAAAAlw/4DIt-zdhtQk/s1600/100_1697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--DY1aEDA1X0/TtlbdSoMkbI/AAAAAAAAAlw/4DIt-zdhtQk/s320/100_1697.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">No- I did not stay on the floor all night- moved to my recliner after they all fell asleep.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">All in all it was a wonderful month! I am so blessed to have the family I have--- and to have the joy in my life that comes through sharing and learning and growing always in the gospel and in all areas of this amazing journey we call mortality. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKEzNoDz7oY/TtlV0U-VNLI/AAAAAAAAAk4/steT1B60xO0/s1600/fun+at+Lindsays+11-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKEzNoDz7oY/TtlV0U-VNLI/AAAAAAAAAk4/steT1B60xO0/s400/fun+at+Lindsays+11-2011.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d1DoyyRvteo/TtlV4jFbRAI/AAAAAAAAAlA/UcvedBVzaAg/s1600/fun+with+the+Witts+11-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d1DoyyRvteo/TtlV4jFbRAI/AAAAAAAAAlA/UcvedBVzaAg/s400/fun+with+the+Witts+11-2011.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Pj5DboZsY/TtlVnFsD0qI/AAAAAAAAAkg/rjkenByXRVE/s1600/More+Fall+2011+precious+moments.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Pj5DboZsY/TtlVnFsD0qI/AAAAAAAAAkg/rjkenByXRVE/s400/More+Fall+2011+precious+moments.jpg" width="313" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Posted with love and humble gratitude to Heavenly Father for all these blessings. </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-74593190247008044902011-10-29T09:45:00.000-07:002011-10-29T09:45:47.039-07:00This Doesn't Happen Every Day!Okay- so I just had to post these pictures of my pantry. Usually it is a jumble of "stuff".... Jim sometimes uses it as his bullet/knife/gun cleaning stuff storage... when I find that kind of thing in there I take it out and put it in his "gun room"- then, I am notorious for just shoving food in wherever I can fit it... then I let the kids and Brooke just rifle through at their whim... anyway ((sigh))- last week we discovered one of Jim's water jugs (he has tucked/stored them all over the house and garage) had been smooshed and cracked and had leaked... probably slowly over a period of time. So there was waterlogged boxes and well, just a mess. I ended up spending several days pulling out everything, cleaning up and salvaging what I could. I washed the shelves and walls and floor with a water/bleach solution and then reorganized. These pictures are the result and a strict vow to keep it this way- rotate food, treat it like a good little pantry and strict orders to Jim reminding him this is NOT where bullets/knives/gun stuff go! Ha Ha! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGDHtuSSFvg/Tqws3rC6TII/AAAAAAAAAkI/ZICHFdT7szw/s1600/Pantry+-1++2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGDHtuSSFvg/Tqws3rC6TII/AAAAAAAAAkI/ZICHFdT7szw/s400/Pantry+-1++2011.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxzoDjcYgDg/Tqws36thihI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/9nq9M1eYuz4/s1600/Pantry-2+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxzoDjcYgDg/Tqws36thihI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/9nq9M1eYuz4/s400/Pantry-2+2011.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MfQuhXy9WKY/Tqws4TQDMUI/AAAAAAAAAkY/kM3feDca668/s1600/Pantry-3+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MfQuhXy9WKY/Tqws4TQDMUI/AAAAAAAAAkY/kM3feDca668/s400/Pantry-3+2011.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
posted by a tired, but kinda "pleased with my work" gramma!Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-69344010425970451802011-10-20T23:49:00.000-07:002011-10-20T23:49:18.880-07:00Some Precious Moments - Oct. 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Just thought I'd post a bunch of pictures from my last trip to Pocatello and Idaho Falls. The hardest part is picking which ones to post. And I want to post so many, I made collages- yup-again! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETknW-jxVzg/TqEFfhLVkSI/AAAAAAAAAi4/iX9oas1x37w/s1600/fun+with+River+Oct+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETknW-jxVzg/TqEFfhLVkSI/AAAAAAAAAi4/iX9oas1x37w/s400/fun+with+River+Oct+2011.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Baby sitting River while Brady and Jade move to a new apartment.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sth07uwOUF0/TqEP2h4RdwI/AAAAAAAAAjw/k1W_ud0qvq4/s1600/Gramma+%2526+The+Barlows+Oct+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sth07uwOUF0/TqEP2h4RdwI/AAAAAAAAAjw/k1W_ud0qvq4/s400/Gramma+%2526+The+Barlows+Oct+2011.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Hangin' out playing with the Barlows. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> Heather canned a bunch of fruit (I helped peel the pairs!) </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCZiyj-f5UU/TqEFoQbF9SI/AAAAAAAAAjI/KjcnVgc6n_E/s1600/kodak+moments++Oct+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCZiyj-f5UU/TqEFoQbF9SI/AAAAAAAAAjI/KjcnVgc6n_E/s400/kodak+moments++Oct+2011.jpg" width="308" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">More playin' around with the kiddos.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XkgcYv65WKc/TqEPyUCgq1I/AAAAAAAAAjo/clOafOmE11s/s1600/O%2527Connors++Oct+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XkgcYv65WKc/TqEPyUCgq1I/AAAAAAAAAjo/clOafOmE11s/s400/O%2527Connors++Oct+2011.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Had a blast with the girls and Tommy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They're showing Gramma their tumbling tricks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi7x1Fd0GTc/TqEFsWrUtVI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/vvV9jWKByew/s1600/Mailei+%2526+Gramma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi7x1Fd0GTc/TqEFsWrUtVI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/vvV9jWKByew/s400/Mailei+%2526+Gramma.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mailei and Gramma- oh how I love this girl!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm pretty sure she loves me too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqh3Ge9cjAY/TqEF0dGNphI/AAAAAAAAAjg/87yqq2pY6NA/s1600/Oct+8th++Blake+Football-Carter+Birthday+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqh3Ge9cjAY/TqEF0dGNphI/AAAAAAAAAjg/87yqq2pY6NA/s400/Oct+8th++Blake+Football-Carter+Birthday+2011.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was so fun to see Blake's football game. So shocking</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">to see how tall he is! Sheesh!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Celebrating Carter's 8th birthday. He was so funny.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blake told me he already had a lot of the same art stuff</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I bought.... but one color book <i><b>was</b></i> different! he he he</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQ_8zgq82TU/TqEP6BQxUhI/AAAAAAAAAj4/bT0MbxK6AjM/s1600/Gramma%2527s+girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQ_8zgq82TU/TqEP6BQxUhI/AAAAAAAAAj4/bT0MbxK6AjM/s400/Gramma%2527s+girls.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mailei's 2010 Halloween costume and just a pretty pose.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">River in 3 different costumes... so far... who knows what she will actually dress up as on Halloween.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Molly and Maddy in their princess dresses from Gramma. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-170AZW85NNs/TqEFZ7nfS3I/AAAAAAAAAiw/NOnx6SzIOSM/s1600/Evie%2527s+crazy+close-ups+Oct+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-170AZW85NNs/TqEFZ7nfS3I/AAAAAAAAAiw/NOnx6SzIOSM/s400/Evie%2527s+crazy+close-ups+Oct+2011.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Evie is a crazy crazy girl! We were laughing so hard while taking all these. Every time I aimed the camera, she jumped in front. Then had me do close-ups of the others too- even a silly dolly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Excited for my next post- in a couple of weeks - Carter's getting baptized! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Posted by a Gramma who never gets tired of having fun with the kiddos! </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-68229185815335556032011-10-02T22:03:00.000-07:002011-10-02T22:03:59.034-07:00Rock-N-Rollin' at Gramma's House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We just love it when one of our kids and their families come to visit. This weekend we had Jim's 4th child - Josh and his wife Tringle with their kids- Kyriahna-12, Jolanna-11 (this month), Kaldon-9, Malaya-7, and Taron-6 (this month). They were here to participate in a Karate tournament in Meridian on Friday and Saturday. So after they were competing Friday, they came out here to sleep and to visit. The first thing the youngest said to me was, "we haven't seen you in a long, long, time, Gramma"--- "I know," I said- "the last time was for Eliza's baptism in July. And boy has Grampa & Gramma been missing you all," Then Malaya said it takes "FOREVER" to get here... about an hour. I laughed cause it is actually about 4 hours from their house. We had a lot of fun! Friday night the kids and I hung out playing and laughing. Malaya and Taron found a toy guitar and toy rhythm player upstairs along with a big plastic microphone. So we spent about an hour playing like we were a rock-n-roll band. Jolanna found my flickering reindeer headband and put it on and joined the band. Grampa took pictures of us. I tried to get a video of the kids playing, but Jolanna got a little shy and very quietly was singing... "bop" "bop" "bop" We thought we were hilarious!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We also celebrated (just a bit early) Jolanna and Taron's October birthdays. Jolanna cracked me up- she got frustrated trying to gently pull the tape off the box and when she couldn't get it, she resorted to biting it off... I'm all..."just rip it open!".. he he. Taron ripped his open immediately! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CK3SkbUNnOw/Tok88gTbBHI/AAAAAAAAAio/xjuvlsMY2qs/s1600/9-30-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CK3SkbUNnOw/Tok88gTbBHI/AAAAAAAAAio/xjuvlsMY2qs/s400/9-30-2011.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have once again put together collages cause it's too hard to just pick a couple of pictures...even with the collages I only use a fraction of what I take.... so I try to put a variety together to capture the moment and the atmosphere of each visit or event. I have to say this time, my favorite collage has to be the rock-n-roll collage of pictures. We were having a blast. Kaldon and Kyriahna were NOT enjoying the noise..er...I mean the music we were making. I had to chase them to try to get them to participate and all they did was cover their ears and duck away from us. They wouldn't join us for all our pleading. ha ha ha!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNKMqQ6Wvlw/Tok9BTubbhI/AAAAAAAAAis/suHKvVrVwCU/s1600/Rock-n-Roll+with+Gramma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNKMqQ6Wvlw/Tok9BTubbhI/AAAAAAAAAis/suHKvVrVwCU/s400/Rock-n-Roll+with+Gramma.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the little video I was talking about!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwXSV0PjhhpwA3q9-FwVRyTTFLbLkJsMFrH8QhjrowXkFpZ2X8LMHPiU48NyAqZg41YJMEZ3K8O2Tp4pybBJw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am so grateful that Josh and his family came to visit. It means so much to Jim- to both of us-since Jim can't travel much at all. He worries all the time about his family. I know that his prayers were answered this weekend indeed! I haven't seen Jim so happy and excited for a long time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Posted once again with gratitude and joy.... by a rock-n-rollin' Gramma! </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-88286630259977932442011-09-29T23:22:00.000-07:002011-10-02T18:13:43.317-07:00My Life In Pictures- July - September 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've had quite an eventful summer. My next trip after River was born was the weekend of the 4th of July. First I went camping at Indian Springs with Donnie & Katie & the boys. We had a blast! We swam (of course) we watched bugs, and fish, and fireworks. We had yummy food prepared by Donnie & Katie. The first night there, Heather and the kids were there to swim and picnic with us too. I FORGOT to take pictures while she was there! But I did get a few fun ones the next couple of days. Following is a collage of just a few of the pictures. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9zTdDsLvmq0/ToVU1WreLOI/AAAAAAAAAik/pUKIAA7gDao/s1600/camping+with+the+Lindsays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9zTdDsLvmq0/ToVU1WreLOI/AAAAAAAAAik/pUKIAA7gDao/s400/camping+with+the+Lindsays.jpg" width="315px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After leaving Indian Springs, I spent a couple of days at Heather's. It was a lot of fun... Brady and Jade and River came over for a barbecue, then we all loaded up and went to see fireworks. It was marvelous! I like to think I am seriously patriotic and on the 4th, every year the fireworks just fill my soul with joy and celebration. The grand finale each year- with inspiring music in the background- always brings me to tears. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-soFvJV3UjCE/ToVRX6OtZ4I/AAAAAAAAAiI/_S1nkoquZ18/s1600/4th+of+July+with+the+Barlows+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-soFvJV3UjCE/ToVRX6OtZ4I/AAAAAAAAAiI/_S1nkoquZ18/s400/4th+of+July+with+the+Barlows+2011.jpg" width="316px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Brady and Jade are so cute with their little River girl. And they are so happy to bring her around so family can love on her too! It was great to be able to get pictures of River with Jim (his first time seeing her) and with Jim's mom- Gramma Esther as the kids call her. She just loves having all the kids come and visit her. We are blessed to have her in our lives. Once I married Jim, she just took us into her heart and her home like we'd been family from the first. She is a wonderful woman. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BGd3JLk7jjc/ToVRhxnkf9I/AAAAAAAAAiQ/EBXrz9DNKVs/s1600/Brady+Jade+%2526+River++July+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BGd3JLk7jjc/ToVRhxnkf9I/AAAAAAAAAiQ/EBXrz9DNKVs/s400/Brady+Jade+%2526+River++July+2011.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When Jim came down, we had the privilege of going to our granddaughter Eliza's baptism. My camera batteries were almost dead so I didn't get many pictures from there, but I did get this beautiful one of Eliza. She is so precious and dear to my heart. I had the honor to be present at her birth and when she and her family lived here in Boise we were so close. I love the time I have with Eliza and her family. It is amazing how much love swells in our hearts for children that are ours through marriage. I have truly been blessed. As you can see, there are pictures of Tanner and Tyler in this collage also. Tanner and I have some truly outrageously fun together! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hcHZW6uu3ZE/ToVRp5hF7TI/AAAAAAAAAiY/LcWVO487m2k/s1600/Eliza%252C+Tanner%252C+Tyler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hcHZW6uu3ZE/ToVRp5hF7TI/AAAAAAAAAiY/LcWVO487m2k/s400/Eliza%252C+Tanner%252C+Tyler.jpg" width="312px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This next collage is a collection of pictures of River with her cousins (and Uncle Donnie and Gramma). As you can see, she is very very loved! I think as a family we are all absolutely thrilled that Brady has found this happiness in his life. We just love Jade to pieces- how could we not? She is a delightful person and she has given happiness to Brady that had eluded him for quite a while. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GkfUPwIEm1I/ToVRzCraOhI/AAAAAAAAAig/3B4e_oTb2Ac/s1600/River+%2526+her+cousins+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GkfUPwIEm1I/ToVRzCraOhI/AAAAAAAAAig/3B4e_oTb2Ac/s400/River+%2526+her+cousins+2011.jpg" width="311px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the highlights of every summer for me is the Toomer Reunions. The big one is every other year, so on the off year we have just our immediate family. This year was the big family- and although there were many missing, we still had aunts, uncles, cousins, and family from several states there. It seems like our family (my mom & dad and all o'us) always have the biggest showing. Every one of my siblings were there! All seven of us! Sadly, many of our children didn't make it, but each of us had at least part of our family there. Following the reunion in the park, a bunch of our family always goes out to the lake (Bear Lake) and we do have a TON OF FUN!!! Sand, water, water fights, games, kids, grownups, we all just LOVE it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bsvIn7LlHB0/ToVRu1rpKQI/AAAAAAAAAic/0S9LtaQcIx8/s1600/Toomer+Reunion+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bsvIn7LlHB0/ToVRu1rpKQI/AAAAAAAAAic/0S9LtaQcIx8/s400/Toomer+Reunion+2011.jpg" width="312px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On Sept. 11th the Boise Philharmonic Master Chorale, the choir I sing with, performed in a concert to commemorate the tragedy of the 9/11/2001 terrorist attacks on our country. The concert didn't focus on the grief- rather on hope and growing and moving forward. The music we performed was written and composed by a local man, Paul Aiken in 2005 in memory of that date. It has been performed twice here and before I joined the choir, they even performed it at Carnegie Hall in New York. It is amazing music, The concert was free, but they collected donations for the Interfaith Sanctuary which provides food, clothing and shelter to the homeless and the donations came up to $4000.00! Now they will be able to build some showers at the shelter. I think that is just wonderful! I love this choir and I love the challenge of singing classical music. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f98Zi2YDAB4/ToVRlCiVMfI/AAAAAAAAAiU/-5jquuxkXdw/s1600/Copy+of+CCF00982011_00000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f98Zi2YDAB4/ToVRlCiVMfI/AAAAAAAAAiU/-5jquuxkXdw/s400/Copy+of+CCF00982011_00000.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Jim cannot do very much- he can hardly travel... but this year he has been slowly, steadily working on projects to improve our yard. I am so proud of him, (I have helped when I could, but my allergies are so bad I'm pretty useless on outdoor working). So I've included a couple of collages of our yard. It is not perfect, but it is a work in progress.... my favorite of course are the angels we have collected -feels like a bit of heaven. This first collage is different shots of parts of the front yard. Jim has almost finished the setting in the very front with the white rock, trees, and angels. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J8g_ZCTS7SE/ToVRTzg7rjI/AAAAAAAAAiE/INwods9eUU0/s1600/front+yard+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J8g_ZCTS7SE/ToVRTzg7rjI/AAAAAAAAAiE/INwods9eUU0/s400/front+yard+2011.jpg" width="311px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This next one is different areas in the back. There is actually a lot still to be done in the back, but again, Jim is working slowly but surely. I think it helps him mentally and spiritually to get outside and work a little. He can only do about an hour at a time, then has to rest in bed for a while, but he is steadfast and things are looking better and better. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqnDolbC4tY/ToVRdKN6aKI/AAAAAAAAAiM/ihPajQl5xDI/s1600/back+yard+-+fall+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqnDolbC4tY/ToVRdKN6aKI/AAAAAAAAAiM/ihPajQl5xDI/s400/back+yard+-+fall+2011.jpg" width="311px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Okay- when I first posted this blog, somehow the description of this collage was lost. Very simply- amongst my pictures I downloaded I found these silly faces.... I thought it was funny that Donnie, Carter and I all had these goofy pictures along with the straight pictures. Can't tell we're related can ya? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aC0IEYYOWEI/ToVRJ5w3avI/AAAAAAAAAiA/-eXm7pr7pHw/s1600/silly+face+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aC0IEYYOWEI/ToVRJ5w3avI/AAAAAAAAAiA/-eXm7pr7pHw/s400/silly+face+collage.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well- gonna call it a night for now... posted by a gramma who feels so loved and so very very blessed! </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-88828471668904740392011-09-08T20:36:00.000-07:002011-09-09T07:45:18.819-07:00Time- Gets Away From Us- And Is So Precious...I have been such a lazy blogger this summer. I got caught up in so much and yet so little and every week I tell myself "I'm gonna post in my blog"- then I get sidetracked and don't get it done. I do think I will start posting even when I don't necessarily have pictures or outstanding events or moments to post about. But to keep a running journal of my life at this time, have it printed each year, and perhaps someday my posterity will read it and gain some insight into where and who they came from and perhaps avoid some of the mistakes and hardships and at the same time share in the joy and triumphs. I also want my children and posterity to know how very much I have loved and leaned on the Lord and my testimony. <br />
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Right now is a particularly challenging time for us. Jim and his daughters are going through some difficulties and he is very hurt and depressed. I write about this because I think it is important for families to know how easy it is to get into conflict and how very little good comes from contention and spite.<br />
It all started because we heard a rumor that our son in law, Jeff (Genevieve's husband) was telling people that we don't treat Genevieve very well because she reminds us of her mother. Well, we thought that was just so ridiculous- but knowing the source, predictable. Jeff is in many ways a very good person, but in many ways he sits in judgement on the people around him- whether family or not. If someone does not meet his expectations of what he thinks they should be, then he judges them harshly and has a real gift for verbal harranguement. He claims to be close to the spirit and to be looking out for his family's best, but in our opinion, much as we love him, we fear he is off track much of the time-at least in this instance. <br />
Anyway- in response to this rumor (Jim and I each heard it from different sources)- rather than confront him negatively- I made a really poor choice and posted what I thought to be this innocuous comment on facebook (knowing that a lot of our children read my facebook): "Heard a funny story the other day about a man and a woman who mistreat the man's daughter because she reminds them of his ex.... obviously whoever thinks this doesn't understand the all encompassing and unconditional love a parent has for their child... silly, silly minds...." I did not mention names or even infer it was my own family I was talking about. <br />
After that post, several people posted simple comments such as "my son is the spitting image of his dad, yet my husband treats him like his own and loves him like his own...." "my son even has developed a lot of the same mannerisms as his father, yet his stepfather and I love him"... to which I commented: Jim and I have a blended family and we love all our kids and grandkids"<br />
Well then Jeff decided to jump into the commentary and blasted me for airing family business in public (which my facebook is private- only friends and family can see it)- to make a long story short, I removed the post, Jeff then started sending private messages, but each time we tried to answer and make things better he got more and more heated. I'm not very articulate nor eloquent, and I asked him why he was being so vehement and vicious (which made him even more angry) He was quite abusive in his verbage and really ripped into Jim and I on all levels...claimed all Jim's kids feel the same way as he... when we quit answering on private FB messages, he started sending private e-mails. Ultimately it ended when Jim sent a message to Jeff (copied to all his children) calling Jeff on his lies and his manipulation of the truth. <br />
At this point, Jim has had words with his younger daughter also. I do not want to go into all that his daughters are saying or feeling, that is too private- but suffice it to say that Jim is hurt to the core and I believe they are hurting also. The older daughter and her kids have been completely cut off from us per Jeff and I'm not sure where we stand with the younger daughter. I pray they both know how very much we love them and their children. <br />
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(I need to insert here that a lot of how Jim is reacting and feeling has also to do with the fact that one of his meds (a very important one for his mental/emotional well-being) has gotten too expensive and he has been without it now for a little over a month. Hopefully we can get this addressed within the next few weeks and even if the family situation hasn't changed, perhaps Jim can get some rest and feel some peace. I also think there are a lot of issues held over from his divorce that he never has addressed or faced. He basically let his children's mother say and do whatever she felt she had to as far as what the kids knew and didn't know. Ultimately, there is a lot of mis-information, some very ugly stories/half-truths/exaggerations that have been let go. I think his exwife is not a terrible person- I think she too tries her best- but divorce sometimes brings out the worst in people- and in her effort to appear in the right, she needed to paint him as a really bad guy. He is not perfect as none of us are- but he is an honorable and wonderful man. He loves his children, he loves me and my children, and he is faithful and strong in the gospel with a tremendous testimony.)<br />
I am sick at heart. I have prayed and prayed. I have had several counsels with my Bishop and I am following his advice. He advised me to just let things be for now... he said we could choose to believe what Jeff says or not... (I choose not to- I choose not to believe any of our children would think or feel the things he claims about us)... Bishop went on to say all we can do is live the best we know how and trust in the Lord to bring things right. We read some scriptures together which outlined the promises and the hope Heavenly Father has given us in situations like this. I feel hope- I will continue praying and loving those daughters and their families and trust in the Lord to bring things right at some time.<br />
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To end this blog, I want to post a quote that was on our church program a couple of Sundays ago that is so appropriate here<em>: Elder Marvin J. Ashton taught: "When others disagree with our stand, we should not argue, retaliate in kind, or contend with them....Ours is to explain our position through reason, friendly persuasion, and accurate facts. Ours is to stand firm and unyielding on the moral issues of the day and the eternal principles of the gospel, but to contend with no man or organization. Contention builds walls and puts up barriers. Love opens doors....Contention never was and never will be an ally of progress" (conference report Apr. 1978 or May Ensign May, 1978</em>)<br />
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I close now with a prayer for peaceful resolution in my family and for the safety, health and happiness of all our children and grandchildren as well as our extended family. Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-64052162004801173772011-06-12T17:23:00.000-07:002011-06-12T17:30:34.812-07:00Summertime & The Livin' Is Crazy!It certainly has been crazy weather this year! Spring has sprung back and forth, snow/rain/sunshine- plants growing then freezing! (((Whew!!!))) But it seems we have finally got our warm weather- at least here in Nampa. For the last couple of weeks I have had my annual "spring" cold- a little late this year, just like the sunshine and it has hung on and hung on. I even lost my voice for over a week! Can you imagine a world where <strong><em><u>I</u></em></strong> can't talk? Me either...ha ha. <br />
Anyway- since my last post we have had some fun times and some interesting times. Jim's youngest daughter and her family came and stayed from May 26th - May 30th and we had a grand time. <br />
On the 27th- Brooke had to go to St. Luke's hospital to have an EEG done. I was so nervous for her- last time we had to sedate her and hold her down and it was just traumatic for her. This time however was a whole different experience. She was so calm and cooperative! The nurse from the group home brought a big bag of treat/reinforcers, so we were able to get all the electrodes on her head and run the test with very little anxiety! She <em>almost</em> fell asleep during the testing. She actually <strong>did</strong> fall asleep when the nurse was removing the electrodes and rubbing/scrubbing at her head! Go figure! It was a great relief and I gave great thanks to my Heavenly Father. It was so wonderful to see her this way. And it made it much easier for me to come home to our company and just enjoy the time with them.<br />
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She was SO tired when she was done. What a good girl though- love her so so much! <br />
Back to our visitors! Tim & Amanda have 4 kids- Eliza (turning 8 in July); Evie (just turned 5); Phoebe (turning 3 in July); Tommy (just turned 1). Friday night the girls and gramma had a slumber party! I LOVE having slumber parties with my grandkids....I'm sure some day they will outgrow them, but in the meantime I will enjoy every moment I can! Saturday- Tim and Amanda took the kids to the Discovery Center and visiting old friends in Boise. Gramma & Grampa stayed home and rested! Then Sunday we went to church of course- and afterwards, celebrated Evie & Tommy's birthdays. The girls wanted to have another slumber party Sunday night but mom and dad said no..... (prob'ly good thing cuz this gramma was really tired out from all the fun and playing!)<br />
One very lovely thing about this visit was sharing their evening routine. They read the scriptures every night-taking turns. Eliza reads and the other kids "read" with Daddy's help. Then they have personal prayers one by one and finally a family prayer. What a delight- what a moving, tender privilege to share this with them. <br />
It was really hard to pick pictures to post! Between the girls, and I and Grampa we took TONS of pictures...so I once again made a few collages to share. This is NOT all the pics, but a real good sampling of how the visit went. Enjoy! <br />
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Posted with love and gratitude!Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-33731686991402887902011-05-23T23:23:00.000-07:002011-06-15T14:08:24.913-07:00And Life Goes On<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">So, it's been 51 days since my last post! ((Whew!!)) And so much has happened it is hard to put it all in words- but I will try. </span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Things got really busy in April... after I got home from my visit with Donnie, Katie and the boys it was rehearsal rehearsal rehearsal time with the Boise Master Chorale. We had two absolutely fabulous concert performances the 15th & 16th. We did the music of Carmina Burana with the Boise Philharmonic Orchestra, the College of Idaho choir, and a children's choir from Opera Idaho, along with 3 professional soloists. I can't think of any other time that I was involved in such an exciting, soul moving concert. It was breathtaking! </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">A few nights before the concerts, however, I received news that my dear Grandma Clark was probably getting close to the end of her days. My first thought was to forego participating in the concerts and rush to be by her side, but after assurances from my sister (Susan) who had been living with Grandma the last year and half, I decided to go early the morning of the 17th. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">I had a very interesting, spiritual experience with this concert- as my heart, prayers and thoughts were with my grandma, I felt her near me and decided to dedicate my own performance to her in gratitude for all she has done and been for me. I was able to stand for each performance (in the last year I have had to sit for part of my concerts due to hip/back pain) and when I started to feel like I couldn't stand, I felt my Grandma's spirit there holding and supporting me. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">As I was traveling to be with Grandma, there was a bit of complication... My aunt and uncle (George & Ann Lane) who have been looking after her affairs for several years, were making things a little confusing... who should stay, who we should or should not talk to about her condition... it was rather upsetting, but I'm sure everyone was trying to do what they thought best. After Grandma got sick with an infection, Aunt Ann decided she was too sick to have solids and because she was so unsteady, Ann also decided she should be kept in her bed. The first few days were really hard- Grandma kept asking for food and asking to get up- so Susan and I would give her a little bit of milk or juice (she could only handle a swallow or two). We explained to Grandma that she was very weak and we were afraid she would fall again if she tried to get up. Gradually, she weakened more and seemed content to be in bed with us taking turns sitting with her. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">We shared some very tender, spiritual moments with her. She was seeing and talking with people from the other side of the veil, so we knew her time was very close. She shared her love and appreciation for each of us- and we with her. When I told her she was my lifelong angel and she saved me all my life, she smiled and remarked, "I think Grandpa had a lot to do with that. He always knew you were special- from the time you were a baby and was determined to teach you that." (And he did)- At one point, she turned to me, holding my hand, and said, "I think I'm going on a journey aren't I?"- I replied, "Yes you are Grandma, a wonderful, beautiful journey where you will be loved, you will be happy and you will be well."</span></div><span style="font-family: Georgia;">I wept as I said this to her- because I selfishly wanted so bad for her to stay longer. But I also know that she so deserved the rest and peace and joy she would find. She passed on April 27th around 9:30 AM. As I watched her take her last couple of breaths, through the sadness and tears, I felt a strong, peaceful spirit surrounding all of us in the room.</span><br />
It was definitely what one would describe as a "bittersweet" moment. Oh, Grandma, how I love and how I am missing you!!! <br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">For the funeral Grandma and I had planned for years that I would sing- and I thought I would sing "The Wind Beneath My Wings"- but Uncle George asked me to sing the song I had sung years before at my Aunt Delsa's funeral "I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked"- at first I was disappointed, but when I got my music out, the first thing I noticed was the inscription across the top "To Roxanne from Grandma Clark"- Remembering that she loved to hear me sing this song- the first time I sang it in her ward was in th 70's when I was in high school- I felt an overwhelming sense of "this is the right song"..... I felt her spirit brush my heart again. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">A few days after Grandma passed my Uncle Jack passed away. He had been ill and in a nursing home for some time, so although it was not a surprise, it was another heart wrenching experience for our family. My dad will miss his brother, I know. I was unable to go back for Uncle Jack's funeral as Jim needed me home for a while. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I was home for 4 days, then on Monday (the day after Mother's Day), my son Brady called saying his Jade was in the hospital. She was about 32-33 weeks pregnant and her water had broke. So, into my car I hopped and drove back to Pocatello! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Poor Jade- for the first couple of days, they kept her from going into labor- pumped her full of steroids to help the baby develop, and antibiotics to stave off infection....she had one bad reaction and had to start another med.... then finally, on Thursday evening, they decided to re-induce her labor. Hoping the baby's lungs had developed with the aid of the steroids and to reduce the infection risks. She labored all night and all day Friday. I've never seen anyone so strong! Most of Friday as she was having contractions, she was also violently ill and heaving.... Brady was by her side nonstop (as were her parents and I)- and finally, finally, Friday night they realized she was not progressing or dilating, the baby was not dropping and they needed to deliver her by C-Section! So, River Inara Lindsay, was born Friday the 13th at 10:30- She was healthier and bigger than they hoped (4lb 10 oz; 18") and quite quickly was able to breath on her own. To date, however, she is still in the NICU, waiting for her swallowing/eating to improve and to be able to maintain a healthy body temperature outside the warming beds. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">What a miracle though! And what a testiment to the circle of life! I'm sure that River and Grandma Clark had time to visit and I'm sure Grandma was able to give River her love and assurances. </span><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">And me, well I saw my baby boy become a man right in front of my eyes! It didn't surprise me that he was so loving and tender with Jade all through this, it didn't surprise me that he fell in love with his little daughter instantly- it just surprised me that sometime without me really noticing, he walked into these really big "man" shoes! Oh, he's still the same old Brady with the wry sense of humor and all- but he is indeed a man- and a daddy! </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FFuss6tRVyU/TdtKc2F56HI/AAAAAAAAAgs/J5-Xv-9H_co/s1600/225464_1727178616062_1136337048_2098924_2595652_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FFuss6tRVyU/TdtKc2F56HI/AAAAAAAAAgs/J5-Xv-9H_co/s320/225464_1727178616062_1136337048_2098924_2595652_n.jpg" t8="true" width="320px" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">In between & during all this, we had Mother's day with Brooke Anne; and I was able to spend time with Heather & her kids; and see Donnie & Katie at one of Carter's base ball games; AND we had a couple of days with Jon and Katrina and their kids (the 14th & 15th after me "rushing" home after River's birth)- Jon (Jim's oldest son)- was called to be a High Priest and wanted his father to ordain him and knowing how hard it is for Jim to travel, they came here to have it done. It was a very nice visit.... we are so proud of Jon. And I (of course) had a blast with the kids....</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Posted by a Gramma who is completely, utterly exhausted but also completely, utterly happy and at peace! </span></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-19885816202395607072011-04-02T20:49:00.000-07:002011-04-02T21:24:38.058-07:00Boys Will Be Boys! And Oh How Fun!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">So- went to spend the weekend with Donnie & Katie and the boys March 24-27. We had so much fun. I was thoroughly entertained non-stop! First of all, I got there after bedtime (I went to my niece's dance program in Pocatello first) and Katie had told the boys that they would have a surprise in the morning. They had NO idea it was Gramma!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Blake was the first to get up- as he walked by the room where I was sleeping he did a double take- grinned from ear to ear and came right in with a good morning hug and we started jabbering away. He said he thought the surprise was going to be something like "shoe laces"...?!?!? How funny, then Carter heard us and came bouncing in! Next was Nash- he jumped right in the middle of Gramma and we all started wrestling around. Last was Haedon- and he was hilarious! He glanced in as he sleepily started walking by the door- stopped dead in his tracks- chin dropped, mouth wide open- loudly said "WHAT!?!?" and then he jumped in the middle of Gramma too! It was a superific way to start our weekend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Since it was Friday, Blake and Carter had to go to school so I walked them out to the bus. Then Katie's daycare kids came. She had a houseful of preschool aged kiddos and one baby! Whew!! She works hard. So of course Gramma had to play with all the kids. I told them my name was Gramma Gertie! They were all calling me Gramma or Gramma Gertie instantly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">When Blake and Carter came home, we had movie night in their basement. After the movie the three youngest (Carter, Haedon & Nash) were entertaining us with some pretty crazy dancing moves....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">As you can see........</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m6BD2EwPnCo/TZfoDyNjzCI/AAAAAAAAAgI/we0kIt9G5GU/s1600/Dancing+for+Gramma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m6BD2EwPnCo/TZfoDyNjzCI/AAAAAAAAAgI/we0kIt9G5GU/s400/Dancing+for+Gramma.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Then, after mom and dad went to bed, the party was on... the slumber party that is. I slept on the couch and the boys all slept all around me! We giggled and played until we dropped off to sleep. The next morning Blake and Haedon were the first awake. I went upstairs for a minute and came down to find them watching cartoons or trying to anyway- looked at the clock and told them it wasn't even 5:00 yet! We were kinda being silly about it and then Mom (Katie) came down and made us all go back to bed...he he he!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The funny thing is we all fell instantly back to sleep! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4HH7nADO57Y/TZfoOnb_8PI/AAAAAAAAAgM/nNQKr9dtdeg/s1600/Slumber+Party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" r6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4HH7nADO57Y/TZfoOnb_8PI/AAAAAAAAAgM/nNQKr9dtdeg/s400/Slumber+Party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Saturday morning we went to Blake's distrist Pinewood Derby! I've never been to one where there were so many people (probably because it was district)- The track was computerized and each boy got to race his car 8 times (2x in each lane)- I got to see Blake's car twice and he won both times.... (I had to leave to go to Pocatello to get movie tickets from Uncle Brady)- Blake ended up winning first place in the Webelos- which is really nice since it's his last year in Cub Scouts! The thing I think I enjoyed most was watching what a good sport he was. He was encouraging to all the other boys and he was one of the best mannered and behaved boys there! He looks so dang handsome in his uniform too! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snzQzQ-Sc1A/TZfoXyY561I/AAAAAAAAAgQ/rTdOtJJei2I/s1600/Pinewood+Derby+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snzQzQ-Sc1A/TZfoXyY561I/AAAAAAAAAgQ/rTdOtJJei2I/s400/Pinewood+Derby+2011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Overall, we had a terrific weekend and I am feeling well loved and well blessed! I have made a promise to myself (and to my grandkids) to spend a lot more time with them. I'll be taking turns with all the kids. I also can't wait for them to come visit here so Grandpa can get in on some of the fun and action! <br />
One of the hilights of the weekend was sitting in Church- I drew a funny picture of Blake- cartoonish with big grin full of big teeth! I wrote - "Hi, my name is Blake and my Gramma Wuvs me!"- Blake grinned at it then wrote something on it (I thought it would be silly or sarcastic)- he wrote, "And I love her too"- it was one of those moments so precious- made a deep mark in my heart! He said he was going to save the picture... it will be fun to see if he does!<br />
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I took so many pictures - it was hard to pick just a few to blog so I made collages! This last one is just a bunch of fun pictures..... notice how Blake is being mugged/ganged up on by his brothers! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-03Zc6p7xA04/TZfohX9jaYI/AAAAAAAAAgU/spv6lJ2UXsc/s1600/Life+with+the+Lindsays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-03Zc6p7xA04/TZfohX9jaYI/AAAAAAAAAgU/spv6lJ2UXsc/s400/Life+with+the+Lindsays.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>(If you look close at Nash's hand (finger) , you'll see what I meant by "very funny Donnie!) I tell ya! It's hard enough getting a good/serious picture of Donnie, now he's gonna get the kids in on it?!?!? ho ho ho!<br />
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Anyway- Thanks kids for everything! I love my family so much and am so grateful for all the joy and love we share. My cup runneth over with blessings!<br />
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(if you click on the pictures, you can see them larger! I'm sure most of you know that- but I just figured it out!)<br />
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Posted by Gramma Gertie- with love and happiness!Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-37984390349000049652011-03-23T23:14:00.000-07:002011-03-23T23:17:05.926-07:00Spring Has Sprung-Cleaning's Begun-Birthday & Grandkid Fun Fun Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Okay- so Spring has NOT really sprung- but I do have a few green leaves and buds in my flower beds and on my rose bushes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Last weekend (18th & 19th) Jim's son Justin, his wife Nikki and our two grandsons Tanner and Tyler came to visit. For an "early birthday" gift to Jim, they helped us with a couple of long overdue projects in the house! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Justin started the decluttering/re-organizing of Jim's gun storage room and make him a built in reloading station. He re-inforced the shelves so Jim can store whatever he needs or wants in there. It is amazing how much "junk" you can cram into a space. We threw away several bags of stuff, took down several plastic shelving units and there is still a lot to do! But there is room to move around and I think Jim is really going to enjoy it! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Then Nikki decluttered and organized the "toy room"... we have this big bonus room over the garage that has been used as a catch-all room, guest bedroom and as the play room for the kids. Over the years we had collected quite a bit of toys in a bunch of rubbermaid type containers and boxes. She went through the toys and got rid of the broken/destroyed/useless items and all the other stuff that had made it's way up there. Y'know- that room is quite large and roomy. We bought some drawer/storage units and separated the toys into the drawers so the kids can play with a drawer ful and hopefully put those toys away before getting out another drawer ful! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I think my next project up there will be to get some of that "chalkboard paint" and paint a couple of huge squares on the walls for the kids to draw on with chalk. Also- I've GOT to get some kind of decorations on the walls now... it looks so bare!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I also made a cake to surprise Jim and the boys had a lot of fun helping him with the candles. I was a little disappointed- I bouth "sparkler" candles and they didn't work very well- just a couple of splutters here and there! But the kids loved it! Especially Tanner- we wrote Happy Birthday Grampa in green - which is Tanner's favorite color. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We had a blast playing with the kids... or rather Tanner and I had a blast playing. Ty is pretty mellow and he was pretty happy just hanging out with Grampa. Tanner and I played ball, wrestled, built a castle, bowled, and played "Zombies"-- they have a computer game called Plants Vs. Zombies which Tanner loves, but I do think he loved role playing it with Gramma way more! One of us would be a Zombie- coming after the other one saying "BRAINS--BRAINS!"- we used balls as the peashooters to kill each other-- but Tanner was a good Zombie, he made it to Gramma several times and ate my brains...hee hee!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It really was a fabulous weekend and hopefully we can share more with them and with our other kids and grandkids. It's really great when they come here as Jim can't travel much yet he SO loves to see them! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I took so many pictures I couldn't decide what to post- so I made a few collages and here they are! Wonderful, wonderful memories! </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The boys hangin' out with Grampa & Gramma</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-n0IKH2po2hs/TYrancs6nZI/AAAAAAAAAf0/jHFa0nK3geE/s400/the+boys+hangin+with+grampa+%2526+gramma+3-2011.jpg" width="312" /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are just a very few of the fun pictures of the boys playing. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7p9jdH2Uva0/TYraukAMouI/AAAAAAAAAf4/jrv9Akv_l1c/s1600/Tanner+%2526+Ty+3-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" r6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7p9jdH2Uva0/TYraukAMouI/AAAAAAAAAf4/jrv9Akv_l1c/s400/Tanner+%2526+Ty+3-2011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">I didn't realize how much bigger this room is now that it is organized! Nikki did a super </div><div align="center">job - she is superwoman when it comes to cleaning and organizing! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jsLho4i3dqk/TYra5eXp_FI/AAAAAAAAAf8/NTreSVdUOMg/s1600/the+toy+room+3-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jsLho4i3dqk/TYra5eXp_FI/AAAAAAAAAf8/NTreSVdUOMg/s400/the+toy+room+3-2011.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">I can't show you all of Jim's gun room (for security reasons at his request)-</div><div align="center"> but here is the reloading station Justing set up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ek7gTTSsQg8/TYrbBeQZYkI/AAAAAAAAAgA/I6ltSLQ6pjM/s1600/101_0280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" r6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ek7gTTSsQg8/TYrbBeQZYkI/AAAAAAAAAgA/I6ltSLQ6pjM/s400/101_0280.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We feel so blessed by all our children and grandchildren. We have a wonderful family- we share a wonderful life- if we could change anything it would be Jim's health and we can't wait for this crazy economy to pick back up so we can sell our house and move to Pocatello to be closer to everyone!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Posted by a tired out Gramma (who's setting out tomorrow to see more grandkids!) with love. </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-26436726135930758192011-03-13T23:31:00.000-07:002011-03-13T23:37:41.935-07:00Pondering Agency- My Choices- My Life- "And All is Well"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2wtV1zlPHjo/TX22qKIftTI/AAAAAAAAAfc/e47Tyq4AMbY/s1600/Lord%2527s+prayer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" q6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2wtV1zlPHjo/TX22qKIftTI/AAAAAAAAAfc/e47Tyq4AMbY/s320/Lord%2527s+prayer.jpg" width="257" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I can remember a time, when my children were young, and it was the week for High Council speakers at church some of the people I knew would refer to it at "dry council" Sunday. We would all laugh and go to church, spending most of the Sacrament meeting time trying to keep our kids occupied and/or quiet. I always felt so blessed as mine for the most part were very reverent. Good thing, as I had my hands full keeping Brooke Anne from totally disrupting the meeting. We had wonderful wards though and she was accepted just as she is. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyway- today was High Council day. I am now in the stage of life where I thoroughly enjoy these men and the wisdom and love and inspiration with which they speak. Both speakers talked about agency; choice; and how these gifts shape our lives. I took notes (I actually do that now quite often at church as was suggested by our Stake President a few months ago) and as I listened and jotted my thoughts down, I had an epiphany- which I will share in a minute.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First of all I want to share some of what was said. Regarding choice-choice, or agency, is a gift that we were given not only in this life, but even before we came here. Lucifer was not cast out because of his plan, but rather he "chose" to rebel when his plan was rejected by the Father. On the other hand, Jesus "chose" to be the Savior. He was not forced- He chose. I don't think I ever quite looked at it in that light before. Then all of us "chose" which path we would take. In the scriptures we are taught that God will force no soul to Heaven... God is deeply serious about human joy and He has given us all we need to make righteous choices; the Holy Ghost, our families, prayer, the scriptures... many tools are at our hands. Yet agency is not an easy thing.. we refer to those first choices as the "war in Heaven"- and as such, we are fighting our own war here each day as make choices... some minor every day choices and some choices with eternal consequences. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The second speaker talked about the three "R's" of choice: 1- Right of choice- we were all given the right to make our own choices... it is an unconditional gift. 2- Responsibility- with this gift comes great responsibility to make clear, righteous choices if we want to return to Heavenly Father. 3- Results- each choice comes with it's results or consequences. Analogy- a stick is like choice and consequence...you cannot pick up just one end of it, once you pick it up you are stuck with both the choice and the consequence. Some consequences may require hard work to overcome, repentance. Some consequences will bring eternal joy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So anyway, as I said- in the midst of these talks and writing down my thoughts, I had this epiphany. I have long lamented that choices made by others took away my choices. I felt cheated- specifically when Donovan and Kris made their choices and it completely changed the path of my life and the lives of my children. As I have worked through this over the years, I have tried to live the best I can and yet no matter what I felt like I had failed at the most important duty we are given... family and marriage. Oh I knew that I could still live the gospel and even have found joy beyond what I ever imagined...I have long forgiven them and accept that I will always love them both... I just couldn't shake this niggling feeling of failure. Then today, like a beautiful flower slowly opening, or a cloud lighting up with beautiful colors, my mind and heart were filled with this message. Yes- others made choices that affected my life- but I CAN still choose the right myself and by doing so, <strong><em>I have not failed</em></strong>. I can't really begin to put into words how this message came to me ... it was like a gentle, yet soul shaking carress or whispered shout.... direct spirit to spirit communication from Heavenly Father to me. Even now as I type this I have tears welling up as my heart and spirit swell again with confirmation and I hear the sounds of the song "All is Well" from a CD Mike gave me when we got engaged. I wish I could put that song on my playlist here, but alas it is not offered in the program (at least I can't find it). I have not felt this, this magnitude of spirit communication since I was in the temple and was given answers regarding Brooke Anne. Here I am, this very common, everyday person... and yet God has blessed me with these magnanimous moments of comfort, joy and answered some of my deepest questions and fears. "And All is Well".... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So now I carry this into my everyday life and I have some choices to make. First of all I am choosing to work even harder on forgiving, to pray more ferventy and more often and for my own spirit as well as for those who I have worked to forgive. I am going to express my gratitude more deeply and more often for the people in my life that bring such joy and love and blessings.... And. I am choosing to get over my feelings of failure and accept myself as I am... "And All is Well" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In closing tonight- I just have to mention the love and joy I have with Jim. I love him- with all he has to suffer and go through, he is amazing. His love for me and my children fills me with gratitude.... especially his love and acceptance for Brooke Anne. She loves him so...... "And All is Well"....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-McUNj0gKcsY/TX2qOG7r_5I/AAAAAAAAAfY/QqiMlKxHUsw/s1600/Copy+of+Jim+and+Brooke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" q6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-McUNj0gKcsY/TX2qOG7r_5I/AAAAAAAAAfY/QqiMlKxHUsw/s320/Copy+of+Jim+and+Brooke.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Posted by a soul humbled and grateful for the love of Heavenly Father and Jesus and all I have been blessed with.</div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-23115461968053804412011-03-06T21:38:00.000-08:002011-03-06T22:27:19.472-08:00Oh How I Lo-ove To Sing!This fall I joined the Boise Master Chorale (now known as Boise Philharmonic Master Chorale). We have around 100 singers! It has been such an amazing experience. I have missed singing with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Camerata</span></span> so much since moving from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pocatello</span></span>... and although I don't quite have the same bond of love and friendship as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Camerata</span></span> (more like a family to me than anything)- it is delightful sharing classical music with such an awesome choir. Our director is the director of choirs at Boise State University and he is really, really good. He is fun and I am learning so much from him. I just adored Scott Anderson, the director of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Camerata</span></span>, I didn't know how it would be singing for another director. But it is just as musically fulfilling and he is just as fun. I haven't gotten into the tradition of going out to a restaurant/club each week following practice as a big group of members do- it's kinda hard since I live about 20 miles away. Not like going to Buddy's each week after <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Camerata</span></span>.<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 342px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581214536155084626" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DLOhCca-u84/TXR1DNLFN1I/AAAAAAAAAeA/N1QLCblDLhs/s400/100_0209.JPG" /> This is the back wall of the Balcony at the Methodist Church in Boise, The Cathedral of The Rockies where we performed with the Boise Baroque Orchestra today. All the windows in the building were beautiful and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">acoustics</span></span> were fabulous. After each number the hall just rang - practically breathed with the sound.<br /><br /><div><div><div>I have been thinking today about my love of music. I'm not an avid, educated musician- I know tons of music but couldn't really tell you the names or composers like some people can. I just know I have been blessed with this love that is so deep and so resonant in my heart and soul. A friend once asked me how I could "stand" opera music or classical music and I tried to explain but he just didn't get it. How do you verbally explain the visceral warmth and swelling of your heart to this music to someone who doesn't feel it and probably never will? I told him listening or participating in classical music or opera filled my whole being with joy....<br /></div><div>I believe some people were created and destined to compose amazing, eternally enduring music- such as Handel's Messiah, and some of us were created and blessed with the pure love and ability to soak in that music - to let that music define the color of our hearts and spirits. </div><div><br /></div><div>I also believe that though we lovers of music may not ever gain notoriety or fame- we are so much more blessed (and thankful) for this gift than the world may ever know. I believe that some of us were there, singing with the angels to herald the birth of Christ. I believe we will be singing again in heaven among the angels and the great composers of all times.<br /></div><div>I see this love of music in my children- they may have different musical taste in some ways, but they too have been blessed with spirits open to the message and peace of music. I like to imagine us singing side by side at Christ's birth and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">through</span></span> eternity. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are a few more of the pictures Jim took today- I was hoping for a picture of the entire choir and orchestra, but here's what we got... (my sweet husband does not take the best pictures, but at least he is there, always loving and supporting me.... in fact tonight when I thanked him again for being there he got quite emotional (teary) and told me how much he loves seeing me living my dream).... </div><div><br /></div><div>This is me and a friend from choir. Her name is Carol and she just came up and asked us to take a picture with her. She's really nice and interesting. She has shared some really cool stuff about her heritage... some personal writings and items. I just love her! I am glad to be her friend (a couple of the ladies are not very nice to her... they are obviously wealthy and a little uppity, but I'm sure they'll come around....)<br /></div><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581214087077669314" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BsHPkZeBs1U/TXR0pEOrqcI/AAAAAAAAAd4/x3Ajv8VfPrI/s400/100_0211.JPG" /> </div><div></div><div>This next picture is one Jim took during a part where I and about 5 other ladies were singing. It was a part for "a few, angelic voices".... I was pretty excited to be one of the angels.... we all know how I LOVE angels!<br /><br /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 274px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581213517137341282" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O14VMFiuWV8/TXR0H5CUa2I/AAAAAAAAAdw/OWh-elWY1bg/s400/Copy%2Bof%2B100_0205.JPG" /></div><div><br />These last couple of pictures show a little more of the group and a little of the orchestra.... and </div><div></div><div>a little more of the beauty of the building.<br /></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 305px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581213068867040594" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgPMHi_9zZE/TXRztzGWdVI/AAAAAAAAAdo/AzAOOLIRTWk/s400/100_0207.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581212567513209090" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HUxgFAFgimM/TXRzQnaSGQI/AAAAAAAAAdg/CGGa4t5i_Yw/s400/100_0208.JPG" /></div></div><br /><br /><p>I want all my children and grandchildren to know that a big part of me is the love of music... and it is my fervent hope that they all develop that love and they are able to experience the pure joy of music in their lives. </p><p>posted by a "singing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Gramma</span></span>" </p>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-84388186242851689492011-02-27T20:59:00.001-08:002011-02-27T21:41:35.776-08:00Growing "Older" Pains...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uLDSiwhR7Co/TWssauiihcI/AAAAAAAAAdI/W1Ekn-67SO8/s1600/Copy%2Bof%2Bjim%2Bw.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 392px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578601401109611970" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uLDSiwhR7Co/TWssauiihcI/AAAAAAAAAdI/W1Ekn-67SO8/s400/Copy%2Bof%2Bjim%2Bw.jpg" /></a><br /><div>So this past week has been a bit challenging. Jim had a physical for the first time in years (the first since we've been married)- Yeah, he sees pain doctors all the time and has been in for colds and "stuff"- but this was an actual physical. </div><br /><div>He also had a sleep study done, recommended by his pain care doctor because he has basically exhausted all sleep aids/medicines to no avail. </div><br /><div>The major things we have found so far is that his cholesterol is sky high (no surprise for all of us who know and love him)... he LOVES his junk food! He's seeing our primary doctor about that tomorrow. </div><br /><div>Then, the sleep study showed two things going on with him. First of all his oxygen is dangerously low. He will be getting some oxygen to use within the next couple of days. Second- he averages 50 apnea episodes an hour when he is "sleeping".... (you call THAT sleeping!?).... so he will be fitted with a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">CPap</span> machine. Guess we'll look like <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">twinners</span> when we sleep...he he. His and Hers sleep hoses! </div><br /><div>Anyway- all this has made me look at our lives and how we eat and what we do and we have both decided it is past time to work on our health. I have already started back on the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">NutriSystem</span> diet that was so successful for me before with my doctor's complete support and blessing! Jim is working on cutting back a little at a time. I'm sure after he sees our doctor tomorrow he will be told he'll have to make some major dietary changes. He eats a lot of candy and ice cream and not much meat or protein. He likes tacos, pizza, potatoes... you know all that stuff that we should be avoiding. (Me?- I love hamburgers, pasta, and fried chicken... gonna <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">hafta</span> give 'em up though)-- we'll only allow ourselves to indulge once in a great while. At least that is the plan. Jim is already struggling.... but we'll keep working on it. We have so many grandchildren and such wonderful family---we want to make our lives as quality and LONG as possible!</div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EI-Thg70Ik/TWszHccxViI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/98bfi9Qy54k/s1600/beautiful%2BJesus%2Bpic.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578608766417458722" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EI-Thg70Ik/TWszHccxViI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/98bfi9Qy54k/s200/beautiful%2BJesus%2Bpic.jpg" /></a>On a different note... we had ward conference today and I swear the Stake Presidency talks were aimed right at me! They were wonderfully moving and inspiring. I am making it a goal to "dive back into my spirituality" --- read the scriptures more--- pray more consistently--- and work to become the me I am meant to be! I think I have gotten a little lazy about spirituality- kinda riding along on my testimony without really working at it. I have truly been blessed in my life and I want to dedicate more time and effort and thought to showing my gratitude to my Heavenly Father. </div><br /><br /><div>The RS president asked about my dad today and about Brooke and about Jim and she said she is amazed that I stay so cheerful with all that is going on... and I realized that I really have been blessed with an ability to be cheerful and see the positive. This is a gift given to me following a long road of trials and challenges and not saying I still don't get down or have negative thoughts or feelings from time to time, but overall I AM happy. And THAT is truly what life is about. I love life! This has been a kind of epiphany- this realization of the joy that is in my heart and soul. I remember a time thinking I would never feel joy or happiness again... and praying so hard for Heavenly Father's guidance and patience.... and He has blessed me... I think it has been happening a little at a time for several years now and it just took me a while to understand and recognize the work of His hands. </div><div> </div><div> And what better stage of life to recognize such joy than this stage of being a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">gramma</span>.... I grew up thinking I was born to be a mom and oh how I have loved being a mom, but being a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">gramma</span> is a whole new world and I absolutely LOVE IT!</div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 274px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578609417685064818" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7w94i439X9E/TWsztWnEXHI/AAAAAAAAAdY/4YFHkcZvRcE/s400/mikey%2Band%2Bblakey.jpg" /></div><div></div><div></div><div>My two oldest grandchildren- Blake and Mikey (a few years ago) We have older ones on Jim's side- but these were the first two in my life- they're only a couple months apart in age and their coming into my life changed my outlook and my heart in ways I could never imagine! Love you to pieces boys!!! Love ALL the grandkids to pieces!! </div><div></div><br /><br /><div>Well- 'til next week.... posted by a grateful gramma and daughter of Heavenly Father. </div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-12463134635000857842011-02-20T21:53:00.000-08:002011-02-21T06:54:00.798-08:00On The Lighter Side.....So- my last post was a little heavy so for today I'm just going to post a bunch of random pictures from the events of the past few months... or at least going back to Christmas. It's been fun going through my pictures and relishing the life moments I've had and shared with so many.<br /><br /><br /><br />This first one is just from last night... I had been putting off doing anything with my hair for a while because I was first- not wanting to spend the money to go to a salon and second- afraid of what I might end up with. I mean over the last couple few years I've had everything from silver <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">blonde</span> to bright red to neon yellow to brown... and the only one that was on purpose was the brown! It seemed to be more of what my natural/roots wanted to be, but I just don't feel like me with brown hair. And it really doesn't make me look any more like my daughters like I hoped it would... So, when I got out the color last night (actually Jim had bought for me a couple of months ago)- I just figured what the heck! About the only thing it could do to surprise me would be to turn green or something. But lo and behold! It actually turned out the color I was hoping for (and had tried for many times). So, hopefully if I use this color each time it will work out.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 396px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576024723025958194" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KXMdAvO0Td0/TWIE8UrCFTI/AAAAAAAAAc4/uQ4Gslzk91Q/s400/100_0149.JPG" /><br /><br />Last week we had a girls' get together. My sister-in-law, Barb invited me to join this circle of friends for crafts and lunches when I first moved to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nampa</span>. Our numbers have slightly dwindled as a couple of ladies moved out of state- but we still manage to get together pretty much every month. We draw names for Christmas, celebrate all our birthdays and do crafts at each other's houses off and on. This month we celebrated the baby of the group's birthday. Cheryl (she's the brunette on the left side). Her sister was here from Texas (the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">blonde</span> behind her) and then there's Barb, me, Leslie and Marcia. We were missing one lady that still lives here but we had a blast. Went to a place called <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tucano's</span> Brazilian Grill. This group of ladies has been so fun and just welcomed me into their circle with arms and hearts wide open.<br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 278px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576024521377327122" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hPKKUDv-enw/TWIEwleQKBI/AAAAAAAAAcw/c4WUAqvlggg/s400/Copy%2Bof%2B100_0130.JPG" /> This next picture is of me and some of the young women from my ward. Last winter they did an "adopted grandma" project and I was one of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">adoptees</span>. Oh how my kids got a kick out of that.. and yes, I was actually the youngest adopted Grandma but it has been a blast. They come around every once in a while to check in with us Grandma's and we have been invited to a couple of dinners with them at church. They even asked me to sing at their last Standards night. I love these girls so much. The girl on the far right has become like another daughter to me. She and her sister and dad let me sit with them at church when Jim is at home so I don't have to be alone. I am a pretty happy grandma- these girls are like a bonus on top of my 29 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span>!<br /><br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 245px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576023151117791682" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Hh2skPmp8k/TWIDg0268cI/AAAAAAAAAco/XRWofnVh-QU/s400/Copy%2Bof%2B100_0123.JPG" /></div><div>I don't very often get to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span> birthdays.... so I either mail them something or take something on my closest trip to their birthdays. I asked Mikey if he wanted me to mail him something or wait until I came to visit and he decided to wait for next visit. I went to Poky with Barb to do some things for our mother-in-law and took Mikey out shopping and to eat. When I asked him where he'd like to eat he said "BUDDY'S"! I was thrilled as that happens to be one of my favorite places in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pocatello</span>. So we get there and he orders a WHOLE salad... <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">hee</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">hee</span>! 'Course we took a lot of leftover salad home with us! He loved his toy and we had fun... the best part for me was when he said, "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Gramma</span>, I really love the toy you bought me, but I love YOU more!"--- </div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576034341951365890" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U-GoM1WoE18/TWINsN9j4wI/AAAAAAAAAdA/12Ioo0Ufmbo/s400/Mikey-birthday%2Bdinner%2B2011-2.jpg" /></div><div></div><div>A few weeks ago I went to Bear Lake to see my parents and my grandma. Every time I see my grandma I am in awe. She is over 101 years old!!! And just look at how beautiful she is. I have been asked if I know her secret and I always answer it is the pure love in her heart and her pure spirit. She radiates gentle love and peace and has all my life. I know she won't be here much longer, but oh- I just don't think I'll ever be ready for her to go. I have <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">strived</span> all my life to live up to the person she and my grandpa thought I could be... maybe someday I'll get there. I only know that I would not be who I am without the love and guidance they gave me.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mDtyOqd_iUY/TWICqje-vxI/AAAAAAAAAcg/l_306RDXJ2E/s1600/Grandma%2BClark%2B%2B2-4-2011.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 384px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576022218741038866" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mDtyOqd_iUY/TWICqje-vxI/AAAAAAAAAcg/l_306RDXJ2E/s400/Grandma%2BClark%2B%2B2-4-2011.jpg" /></a> Christmas this year was a blast---- was a journey of work, worry, fun, and love. We have so many kids (10 with 8 of them married and 1 with a serious girlfriend) and so many <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span>- 29 (will be 30 this June)--- that we have to plan/buy/save for Christmas pretty much year round. We have a deal that I get to buy for the grown up girls and Jim gets to buy for the boys- but this year (and last year) Jim had to get his part in with the girls. But that's okay, cause I pretty much pick out for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span> although he's right there giving his approval. I am pretty proud of myself- these last two Christmases I have stayed right in the budget Jim set and we haven't charged for over two years now. (I surely do struggle cause if I could I would probably spend hundreds on each <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkid</span>...(((<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">sigh</span>))) oh well, at least I don't have to budget how much love I give them!<br /><br />I tried to get pictures of all the gifts under the tree before we went to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pocatello</span>, but it was hard! I think I got most of them in these two pictures though.<br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e6aXHiwQU_8/TWIB5wsXE1I/AAAAAAAAAcI/LyIck4zC54I/s1600/100_0027.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 237px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 175px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576021380473230162" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e6aXHiwQU_8/TWIB5wsXE1I/AAAAAAAAAcI/LyIck4zC54I/s200/100_0027.JPG" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jUPXQCCFoas/TWICIlV0nFI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/-rJZ9k7mjpQ/s1600/100_0028.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 226px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 164px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576021635123944530" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jUPXQCCFoas/TWICIlV0nFI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/-rJZ9k7mjpQ/s200/100_0028.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>We got some huge stuffed animals for a bunch of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span>...some of the older ones, especially the boys got games or transformers. Then I put some treats and trinkets in some small stockings for each of them. It was great fun! The grownup boys got ammo from Jim and the grownup girls got ornaments, fuzzy socks, mini all-in-one tools and odds and ends from me.</div><br /><div><br />This is Molly with one of the stuffed animals... a pink pig with a baby pig! She loved it!<br /></div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZD4too-D7c/TWIBX9MSAgI/AAAAAAAAAcA/N_-XrK9bJGQ/s1600/100_0071.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576020799712788994" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZD4too-D7c/TWIBX9MSAgI/AAAAAAAAAcA/N_-XrK9bJGQ/s400/100_0071.JPG" /></a><br />Some of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span> on Jim's side made up a little Christmas skit to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Led by Eliza- she make the sign and made noses, antlers and tails for all the participants. It was so dang cute.<br /><br />Ya gotta love this sign she made!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rv-v0D2boJk/TWIBBrFHYvI/AAAAAAAAAb4/SzA7rcEXLVA/s1600/100_0049.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576020416893772530" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rv-v0D2boJk/TWIBBrFHYvI/AAAAAAAAAb4/SzA7rcEXLVA/s400/100_0049.JPG" /></a><br /><br />This is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error">Eliza</span> - modeling the antlers and nose she made. So clever for a second grader!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xgMxluH6s-A/TWIAzdVfLCI/AAAAAAAAAbw/WjzuQ_Rt_BM/s1600/100_0040.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576020172686175266" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xgMxluH6s-A/TWIAzdVfLCI/AAAAAAAAAbw/WjzuQ_Rt_BM/s400/100_0040.JPG" /></a><br /><br />This is one of my favorite pictures of Christmas. Jim looking so happy and relaxed with Carter and Scooter! The traveling is so hard on him- but he ignores the pain as much as possible so he can enjoy the kids and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span>!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--K_e2_tmeTA/TWIAgln3EBI/AAAAAAAAAbo/oKea90ZdcXI/s1600/100_0061.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576019848493207570" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--K_e2_tmeTA/TWIAgln3EBI/AAAAAAAAAbo/oKea90ZdcXI/s400/100_0061.JPG" /></a><br />I took Brooke Anne to see my folks. It had been so long since she got to see her Granny and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-error">Grampa</span>! She was so good, but before the visit was over she started getting sick. (You can tell in this picture)... but she loved on them and kissed them and munched on their goodies of course! I'm so glad she got to see them- I'm especially glad my grandma got to see her if only for a few minutes. (by the time we got to Grandma Clark's she was really feeling bad and just wanting to stay in the car and sleep).<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_RY3cbcYppw/TWIAFFLo0lI/AAAAAAAAAbg/Ji1019oBJL0/s1600/100_0008.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576019375928431186" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_RY3cbcYppw/TWIAFFLo0lI/AAAAAAAAAbg/Ji1019oBJL0/s400/100_0008.JPG" /></a><br />This picture is another one of my favorites. Molly just came over to me and leaned on my knee. She said I love you <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-error">Gramma</span> and then I snapped this picture. It is so very precious to me. I love all my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_23" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span> so much and these moments are truly the best!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9DpuOtm-4C4/TWH_1PNH-OI/AAAAAAAAAbY/3XyNOKiHKLw/s1600/100_0107.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 328px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576019103741114594" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9DpuOtm-4C4/TWH_1PNH-OI/AAAAAAAAAbY/3XyNOKiHKLw/s400/100_0107.JPG" /></a><br /><br />I got to have breakfast with Brady and his girlfriend Jade and his "best buddy" April. Jade is having his baby and they are so very happy together. I told them I found some pink fleece with skulls on it and could make them a baby blanket.... they laughed. Jade said their baby was going to be really confused between them... cause Jade loves rainbows and Brady loves black..... so it will be a fun, fun journey- yes? </div><div><br />Jade on the left with "rainbow" hair, Brady in middle, and April on the right.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zamqKymEJko/TWH_VfIvBpI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/zHXupLF5LAg/s1600/100_0112.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576018558261855890" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zamqKymEJko/TWH_VfIvBpI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/zHXupLF5LAg/s400/100_0112.JPG" /></a><br />Okay- this last picture was a must-post! Seriously, I think it will be important for my posterity to see exactly what kind of grandmother I really am! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_24" class="blsp-spelling-error">sooooooooooo</span>- drum <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_25" class="blsp-spelling-error">rollllllll</span>...............<br /><br /><br />get ready............................................. keep scrolling down....................</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>it's............................................ <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_26" class="blsp-spelling-error">ROBO</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_27" class="blsp-spelling-error">GRAMMA</span>!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kAykRV-9JPg/TWH_BUy6MWI/AAAAAAAAAbI/wYL09D1AD9M/s1600/100_0101.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576018211888574818" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kAykRV-9JPg/TWH_BUy6MWI/AAAAAAAAAbI/wYL09D1AD9M/s400/100_0101.JPG" /></a><br />posted by a crazy-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_28" class="blsp-spelling-error">lovin</span>'-grateful- mom and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_29" class="blsp-spelling-error">gramma</span>!!! </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-85959515315075957032011-02-13T20:10:00.000-08:002011-02-13T20:57:30.436-08:00Forgiving and Forgetting - a work in progressSo, I promised myself to blog every Sunday and here I am not prepared with any fun pictures or anything.... but I have been thinking a lot about the hard work involved in forgiving and forgetting. Through scripture research, soul search, prayer and much pondering and referring to the wise words of Bill McKee (my wonderful friend and counselor) I came to realize the following.<br />First of all- forgiving does <em>not</em> mean <em>condoning or accepting</em> the behavior of another. I was stuck for a long time thinking if I forgave the ones who had so deeply betrayed and hurt me and my children that I was somehow letting myself and my sense of truth and righteousness down. Looking at it now, I am amazed what a grip the adversary had on my heart - through trickery and using my own sense of right and wrong. Also- it is not necessary to wait for an apology (that may never come) to forgive someone. And it is true- after diligently seeking and praying to forgive I did finally reach a point where there is peace in my heart. I have learned to pray in love and compassion for those who I needed to forgive. I found it is impossible to harbor anger and hurt towards someone I was praying for. I have been blessed with the ability to accept that I love these people regardless of all that happened and I am a much happier person because I have accepted that.<br />This may seem simple to a lot of people, but when you are in the midst of despair and pain, you can loose sight of the simple principles. It is at these times we need to lean heavily on the love of our Savior and Heavenly Father in order to work through it all.<br />Next- forgetting doesn't mean "<em>forgetting" .</em> I was really stuck on this one... I mean, how do you <em>forget?</em> The way we <em>forget</em> is by learning to live well in spite of the pain or betrayal. We forget by not holding onto the anger and hurt. Yes, these experiences, this pain will always be a part of who we are, but we can live beyond the bad stuff by taking stock of the joy and all the blessings we are granted. This came to me in a sweet moment of personal revelation and it was as though a great weight lifted off my shoulders. My heart sang with joy when I found that I <em>could </em>forgive and that I <em>could</em> forget in the sense of living my life as well as I possibly can.<br />Now- once I achieved my goal to forgive I thought I was home free... oh so wrong! Forgiving is a continual work in progress. It is easy to let a moment of doubt or a perceived slight send you spiraling right back down into pain and despair...and resentment. The first time it hit me (after thinking I had finally been able to forgive and move on)- my heart sank and I despaired that I was somehow doomed to be this sad-angry-hurt person forever. Then again, through prayer and beseeching the Lord, I found the sweet sense of forgiveness and realized that just because you overcome or accomplish something once doesn't mean you can fall back and let that carry you. Being Christ-like, being a person of joy and love and forgiveness is something that takes constant work, dedication and a lot of "self-talk"... as Bill used to say, "change the tape in your head"... and believe me, that old Satan will constantly hammer at those tender spots in your heart and spirit-I can go along for a year or so thinking I'm in this great place and <em>WHAM</em>!- something happens that brings it all boiling up again- these are the times I turn to Heavenly Father on my knees asking for His forgiveness and guidance so I can find my peace again.... and I am reminded of one of my favorite songs that says--- we should be more gentle with ourselves- accept that we are on a mortal journey and when we slip a little, the hand of the Savior is just a prayer away.<br />Finally, I know that I want to live with joy and I want to deserve the forgiveness and compassion of others towards me, and to achieve that how can I myself not be forgiving and compassionate towards others? And so my goal in life is to be a "bringer of joy" and to extend love (and forgiveness when necessary) to all. After all- we are all God's children- yes? It's up to Him to judge- up to us to love.<br />Bye til next week! :)Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-69861008927935634692010-08-13T13:48:00.000-07:002010-08-13T16:50:47.685-07:00July Fun In Pictures!! Great Memories!Heather and kids came to stay for a few days. It was so fun and I just didn't want them to ever leave! <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXYFFc6I6I/AAAAAAAAAaw/x0xHG2RwwR8/s1600/Heather+n+kids+visit++July+2010.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505043701404672930" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXYFFc6I6I/AAAAAAAAAaw/x0xHG2RwwR8/s400/Heather+n+kids+visit++July+2010.png" /></a> Me 'n Mailei had a wonderful visit... we did some fun things... and this Gramma can't wait for the next grandchild to come and stay! "We had joy, we had fun....." <br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXU668FjDI/AAAAAAAAAao/TLQmdTB4Cg4/s1600/Maileis+stay+July+2010.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 322px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505040228249078834" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXU668FjDI/AAAAAAAAAao/TLQmdTB4Cg4/s400/Maileis+stay+July+2010.png" /></a> Donnie & Katie's kids are crazy fun! They really think it's fun to</div><div> wear Gramma's glasses and look like nerds! What a hoot! <br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXN0a7v31I/AAAAAAAAAag/4TXdZIM-xpI/s1600/Donnie+n+Katie%27s+house+July+2010.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 309px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505032419997114194" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXN0a7v31I/AAAAAAAAAag/4TXdZIM-xpI/s400/Donnie+n+Katie%27s+house+July+2010.png" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXJ83M8_1I/AAAAAAAAAaY/S5n_8pgH4xE/s1600/Temple+7-17-2010.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 309px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505028166977912658" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXJ83M8_1I/AAAAAAAAAaY/S5n_8pgH4xE/s400/Temple+7-17-2010.png" /></a><br /> Amanda's new baby- Tommy- and the girls and Heather's kids.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXImeVLBpI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/8LoUZT-mNgk/s1600/visit+to+Amanda%27s+house+July+2010.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 309px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505026682832750226" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXImeVLBpI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/8LoUZT-mNgk/s400/visit+to+Amanda%27s+house+July+2010.png" /></a><br /> All my siblings and my parents!</div><div> Donnie Toomer; Liana Gutierrez; Brenda Spensley; Me; Susan Halterman</div><div> Douglas Freeman; Michael Rose; Mom (Mary Toomer); Daddy (Blake toomer)<br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXG6snuhGI/AAAAAAAAAaI/8iRn8vOwJHw/s1600/P7171167.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505024831242798178" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXG6snuhGI/AAAAAAAAAaI/8iRn8vOwJHw/s400/P7171167.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> I think my big orange shades were a hit! But check out all the others too!<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXFbdzsslI/AAAAAAAAAaA/XcooYLKuUs8/s1600/funny+pics+from+the+lake.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 309px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505023195178906194" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXFbdzsslI/AAAAAAAAAaA/XcooYLKuUs8/s400/funny+pics+from+the+lake.png" /></a><br /><br /><div> Boy the kids all had a blast! <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXCiygV0uI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/1OwfHAc0pJU/s1600/kids+at+the+lake.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 309px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505020022459060962" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGXCiygV0uI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/1OwfHAc0pJU/s400/kids+at+the+lake.png" /></a><br /><br /><div><div> There were never such devoted sisters--- hee hee</div><div> Me - Tara - Liana - Clara Lee - struttin' our stuff!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGWwtdI9s2I/AAAAAAAAAZo/ZeTMh0qOBlU/s1600/Copy+of+P7181189.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 211px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505000414493127522" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TGWwtdI9s2I/AAAAAAAAAZo/ZeTMh0qOBlU/s320/Copy+of+P7181189.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-81304186472595718822010-08-13T08:56:00.000-07:002010-08-13T14:53:11.251-07:00AAARGHH!!!!I have been trying and trying to post pictures for July but this darn thing just won't download them for some reason.... July was a fantabulous busy fun fun month.... hopefully will get pictures posted soon! Here is a brief outline of all the activities!<br /><br />Heather & kids came for a few days the weekend of the 10th! It is so wonderful for Jim and I when our kids can make it here to visit!<br /><br />Mailei stayed with us after Heather went home for another 4 days- we painted and had so much fun... and Mailei bonded with Scooter.<br /><br />On the 17th, my younger sister Susan was sealed to my parents in Idaho Falls Temple... I went, Heather went, Donnie & Katie went.<br /><br />I stayed with Donnie & Katie over the weekend of the 17th (had a blast!)<br /><br />Heather and I visited Amanda and kids too! (In between all this other "stuff"!)<br /><br />On the 24th we had the first Blake & Mary Toomer (my mom and dad) reunion at Bear Lake... all 6 of my siblings were there... tons of kids and grandkids... we had so much fun and plan to do this every year (I hope)......<br /><br />And well now- we're well into August and I'm still fighting with posting pictures.... hope everyone else is having a great summer!Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-18222543526632416892010-07-06T22:03:00.000-07:002010-07-06T22:48:52.250-07:00So- here it is another month gone by. And again we have been blessed many times over. On June 13th our 28th grandchild was born. A little boy- Thomas Dennis O'Connor. His parents are Tim and Amanda (she is Jim's youngest daughter). They have 3 girls already so they are extremely happy to have this little guy join their family- we all are!<br /><div><div><br /><div><div><div><div><div>For the 4th of July weekend we traveled to Pocatello to celebrate Mom Witt's birthday and Tommy's blessing. What a weekend we had! </div><br /><div>First of all on Saturday Heather took our Subaru to Walmart for a new tire- while there the battery died and they tried to charge it up, but to no avail. The good news was it was a Walmart battery still under warranty so it was replaced. Heather got there a little after 9:00AM and was still there when we got to town around 12:30- so Jim dropped me off to wait for the car with her. It took about another half hour, then when we paid they over charged us-- and it took another 30 minutes or so for them to get it fixed. FINALLY- we got to Great Grandma's birthday party a little after 2:00 (it started at 2:00). </div><br /><div>The party was great fun! We saw 24 of our 28 grandkids! We rarely get that many in one place these days so it was a wonderful treat...especially since it is so hard for Jim to travel. Two of Jim's brothers and their wives were there with more kids and grandkids- so all in all it was a fabulous party!</div><div></div><div>We got up Sunday and got ready to go to Idaho Falls for Tommy's blessing and on our way out of town we got another flat tire! This time on our Honda! (And don't ya just hate those donut spares- can't go more than a few miles on them) We got it over to Walmart and we ended up putting on 2 tires. We had recently put 2 on the front and were told besides the one that was flat (& totally ruined)- the other one on the back probably wouldn't make it 10 miles it was so threadbare.... BUMMER!!! We had not budgeted for the extra car expenses this month but what do ya do? </div><br /><div>By the time everything was fixed we had completely missed the blessing- we were so disappointed! We went back to Jim's mom's so he could lay down for a while then headed home with both cars. Jim was nervous about the Subaru making it (it has other problems)- so we never went over 65 mph...UGH!!! Long, long, long drive! But we made it home and Monday we just kinda vegged! hee hee</div><br /><div>Looking back at our weekend I have to chuckle... it is just like life. No matter how meticulously you may plan things- sometimes you get things thrown at you unexpectedly and you gotta roll with the throw! But beyond all the trials or all the surprises- you can always count on the Lord to send blessings and silver linings. And if you stack them up side by side- the blessings will always tower over the struggles...</div><br /><div></div><div>I know- I know- sometimes it is very hard to see that- but through perseverence, faith, prayer, and patience- the truth will come shining through.</div><br /><div>Sheesh!!- I kinda got off track, but that's what I do best! Anyway- here are a few random pictures from this weekend (I couldn't possibly post them all!) Enjoy!</div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491034460153690930" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TDQSv67juzI/AAAAAAAAAY4/7_vlfRJsrnI/s320/Tommy-4+6-2010.jpg" /> This is the newest addition to the family- Tommy<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491033659053547666" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TDQSBSmZoJI/AAAAAAAAAYw/35rOT7H7DSY/s320/P6261031.JPG" /> Heather - Maddy- and Molly- fun in the water and the sun!<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491033253332143282" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TDQRprK4TLI/AAAAAAAAAYo/NzDhv1HPf2w/s320/P6261029.JPG" /> Katrina and Tabitha- 2nd youngest- born in Dec. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491032260312869170" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TDQQv34oqTI/AAAAAAAAAYg/gxe6ip3FNJU/s320/P6261032.JPG" /> Kyriahna and Jolanna - loving sisters<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491031526293372546" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TDQQFJcv_oI/AAAAAAAAAYY/b_8PmYrc81Y/s320/P6261027.JPG" /></div><div>Tanner- throwing ball at Gramma- saying you can't take my picture! <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491031007574994786" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TDQPm9Epr2I/AAAAAAAAAYQ/xbye7R91cSA/s320/P6261025.JPG" /></div>Sam and Mikey- getting along for once! Notice however they are pinching each other's shoulders! Typical boys they are!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-43364030188866110262010-06-03T21:44:00.000-07:002010-06-03T22:48:55.446-07:00Memorial DayAnother Memorial Day has come and gone.... my mind struggles to comprehend that it has been 11 years since Mike passed away. Sometimes it seems like just yesterday- and sometimes it seems like forever ago. Life has been full of blessings and love for me, with my sweet husband, Jim and all our kids and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">grandkids</span>, but I do still miss Mike. I guess I always will.<br /><br /><div>Anyway- here are some pics and some memories from this Memorial Day- 2010--- </div><div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiL7HJbHyI/AAAAAAAAAX4/OpFLZqz2KxA/s1600/P5310974.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478782794343325474" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiL7HJbHyI/AAAAAAAAAX4/OpFLZqz2KxA/s320/P5310974.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiHwAUhmuI/AAAAAAAAAXg/CA7IgO9S7uU/s1600/P5310975.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478778205485767394" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiHwAUhmuI/AAAAAAAAAXg/CA7IgO9S7uU/s320/P5310975.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br />Remembering Mike- decorating with his favorite colors- red and white- coca cola colors!<br />Rest well my sweet and I'll "See You In The Morning" ....<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiM_QBjR6I/AAAAAAAAAYA/UOSFYCgERJM/s1600/P5310976.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478783964957329314" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiM_QBjR6I/AAAAAAAAAYA/UOSFYCgERJM/s200/P5310976.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiGSdB9kgI/AAAAAAAAAXY/Y1UolreZEbc/s1600/P5300965.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478776598284833282" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiGSdB9kgI/AAAAAAAAAXY/Y1UolreZEbc/s400/P5300965.JPG" /></a> My sister Liana and I went to Bear Lake to do some work for our mom. We took <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jaimen</span> and Mikey to help out. Our plan was to clean out her room (she's border-line hoarder I swear), but we only managed to get about a box and a half of her "stuff" cleaned out. She has so many little <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">knick</span> knacks and memorabilia (Elvis, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tweety</span>, bowling, etc.) She had fallen a couple weeks earlier into her closet and it scared us all, so hopefully now she can move around and even rest a little easier. We cleaned and dusted and vacuumed and set up a new bed Dad got her for her birthday. It was fun, but exhausting and time well spent!<br /></div><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiGA7VypgI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/raLSaxgLgJI/s1600/P5300962.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478776297183421954" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiGA7VypgI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/raLSaxgLgJI/s400/P5300962.JPG" /></a> This is Daddy (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Grampa</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Toomer</span>) posing with the boys. Mikey had a great time visiting with his older cousin.... he has always looked up to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jaimen</span>. Both the boys were really good- I'm glad we had them with us. Liana and I of course loved spending time together!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiFwo_vpYI/AAAAAAAAAXI/djHAm8u-ErE/s1600/P5300966.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478776017381205378" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiFwo_vpYI/AAAAAAAAAXI/djHAm8u-ErE/s400/P5300966.JPG" /></a> And this is Mikey with Mom (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Gramma</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Toomer</span>). I think seeing us and the boys really cheered her up. She was a little feisty about her room- but since Liana and I are "bigger" than her we got enough accomplished- <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">hee</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">hee</span>. Seriously- she was kinda having a hard time, but we convinced her to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">declutter</span> so she could get around easier. I only wish we could have boxed up lots more!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiFYn3VWtI/AAAAAAAAAXA/S4ebJMiBycg/s1600/P5310972.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478775604760632018" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/TAiFYn3VWtI/AAAAAAAAAXA/S4ebJMiBycg/s400/P5310972.JPG" /></a>Monday morning <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Mailei</span> and I met Brady for breakfast at Butter Burrs.... we had a blast. I am so happy with Brady these days. I mean I always have been, but he is looking so much happier and more at peace since moving back to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pocatello</span>. He is a good young man and my prayer is that someday he will remember how special he is and return to activity in the Church. It does make me really happy though that he has what he calls a really "good relationship" with Heavenly Father. </div><div></div><div>The only down side of the weekend was not having time with Donnie, Katie and the boys. They went to Island Park and although I was hoping to have time with them it just didn't work out. Hopefully I can get down there soon and spend a couple days just with them!!! I miss my boys-need to have a "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">gramma</span> date" with them! </div><div>I also need to find time with our kids on Jim's side - there just is never enough time when I travel these days. We're hoping to get Jim's car back home so he's not just "stuck" here when I go, then I can take a little more time with my trips.... (((sigh)))</div><div>Well-gonna go for now- posted with love by a very grateful gramma! </div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-16940575535049936922010-05-23T12:29:00.000-07:002010-05-23T13:02:27.668-07:00Procrastination!Yup-it's been a few months since I blogged. I am the world's worst (or maybe "best") procrastinator! So-to get back in the swing of things I thought I'd start with something fun and simple.<br />One of my favorite things to do with grandkids when they visit is go to Chucky Cheese. I LOVE it-and I think they kinda like it too- hee hee.<br />Anyway-here are some pictures of a couple of visits...enjoy.... the most recent are with Donnie & Katie's boys-Blake, Carter, Haedon and Nash just this last April. Following those are pictures with Heather & Mike's kids... Mikey, Mailei and Maddy in 2008. (Hey Heather- we need to get Molly to Chucky Cheese for a picture with Gramma!) <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mIkEyZsaI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/5gnUdSvP3xs/s1600/Blake+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 285px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474556975387357602" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mIkEyZsaI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/5gnUdSvP3xs/s400/Blake+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg" /></a> <br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mIUXfsWMI/AAAAAAAAAWI/zfns3nFsybY/s1600/Carter+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 295px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474556705531254978" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mIUXfsWMI/AAAAAAAAAWI/zfns3nFsybY/s400/Carter+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mIDTGt06I/AAAAAAAAAWA/GWVSnTzBzk0/s1600/Haedon+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 279px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474556412294976418" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mIDTGt06I/AAAAAAAAAWA/GWVSnTzBzk0/s400/Haedon+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mHrez42EI/AAAAAAAAAV4/lbzOKyq2TQQ/s1600/Nash+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 282px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474556003120371778" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mHrez42EI/AAAAAAAAAV4/lbzOKyq2TQQ/s400/Nash+%26+Gramma+4-01-2010.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mHFM-fh3I/AAAAAAAAAVw/kssqPqHXK44/s1600/Gramma+%26+Maddy+2008.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 307px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474555345497982834" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mHFM-fh3I/AAAAAAAAAVw/kssqPqHXK44/s400/Gramma+%26+Maddy+2008.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mGIgIqoQI/AAAAAAAAAVo/LBaSfWMQL6A/s1600/Gramma+Mikey+Mailei+2--9.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 298px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474554302668906754" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S_mGIgIqoQI/AAAAAAAAAVo/LBaSfWMQL6A/s400/Gramma+Mikey+Mailei+2--9.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>It's just so fun! I just love building moments and memories with my grandkids- what more could anyone ask for? My cup does indeed runneth over with abundance and the wealth of family love! </div></div></div></div></div></div>Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-899951302702625254.post-57043443701538241852010-01-17T14:49:00.000-08:002010-01-17T15:19:10.429-08:00A New Year - A New Decade!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OW2r4jrMI/AAAAAAAAAUw/JRPqsDUpEak/s1600-h/th_Aug09201%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 120px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 160px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427847842148625602" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OW2r4jrMI/AAAAAAAAAUw/JRPqsDUpEak/s320/th_Aug09201%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a> So- 2009 has come and gone and what a year it was! Probably the most significant event of the year was my Gramma Clark turning 100 on the 4th of September. Still going strong - although her mind wanders a bit, she is basically healthy and very happy. As I've said so often before- she is and always has been my hero- the "wind beneath my wings". I've been so blessed to have her as my Gramma- her strength, her love, her guidance- her kind, patient assurance has been an anchor throughout my life. I love her so much.<br /><br /><br />Here she is on her birthday with my other hero, my beautiful daughter, Heather.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OXLQW3ghI/AAAAAAAAAU4/RrI1AHeqNZY/s1600-h/4845_1074671752708_1403611827_165753_49832_s%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 130px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 128px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427848195536814610" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OXLQW3ghI/AAAAAAAAAU4/RrI1AHeqNZY/s320/4845_1074671752708_1403611827_165753_49832_s%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a>We also had a couple more baptisms-(that makes 8 out of 27 grandkids)- Alex (our oldest granddaughter) was chosen to participate in the National Special Olympics this coming July- some of our kids faced the upheaval of job changes- and we topped the year off by adding a new grandbaby on the 9th of December! Tabitha Grace Witt joined her family of Dad (Jon), Mom (Katrina) and 4 brothers (Sam, Jacob, Ben and Aaron)- it will be interesting to watch her grow! It' so fun watching them all grow!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OXgHGcLYI/AAAAAAAAAVA/WKi7LjRCcgA/s1600-h/Christmas+2009-17.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427848553829248386" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OXgHGcLYI/AAAAAAAAAVA/WKi7LjRCcgA/s320/Christmas+2009-17.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is Tabitha- isn't she a beauty?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OZn6i8v3I/AAAAAAAAAVI/ewP8AU3bD5M/s1600-h/Wacky+Donni+%26+his+Granny+2008-12.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 172px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427850886921371506" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F5OQYVkaxFw/S1OZn6i8v3I/AAAAAAAAAVI/ewP8AU3bD5M/s200/Wacky+Donni+%26+his+Granny+2008-12.jpg" /></a><br />My mom struggled a lot this past year with her health. It has been scary for her and for all of us who love her so much. Here's hoping 2010 will bring her strength, health and all the joy she so deserves at this stage and age of her life. (Love you Mom!)<br /><br /><br /><br />I would say this year has also been one of spiritual growth for me. I have learned to appreciate so much the many, many blessings in my life. I have pondered, studied and gained a new perspective on my own purpose and mission here in this life. (I have a lot of work to do there)<br /><br />Although I struggle accepting or coming to terms with my age- (that number REALLY doesn't compute)- I am thoroughly enjoying this stage of life called gramma. I can't even imagine what life would be without my grandchildren. Getting to know them each- their own personalities and quirks- is a joyous journey which I hope to last many, many more years!<br /><br />So- come on 2010! Come on new decade! Let's play and laugh and work and live this wonderful, wonderful life!Roxannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05947662585547757525noreply@blogger.com4