Happy Acres

Reflections...

2012-02-06T12:36:00.000-08:00

By "Mormon-culture" standards, I was practically an "Old-Maid" when I got engaged at the ripe-old-age of 24. It seems laughable now, but my poor Mom despaired that I would ever get married. I had actually graduated from college and was starting a career at that point in my life. Oh, the HORROR!!! *that's heavy sarcasm in case you're wondering* ...Poor Mom.

Needless to say, she'd managed to put quite a lot of pressure on me over the years, which didn't make life very pleasant. Coming home from a date to be interrogated on why he wasn't "the one" was not fun, to say the least.

I finally got to the point where I asked myself the question: "Could I live a happy, fulfilled, interesting, righteous life, whether or not I EVER got married?" Of course the answer to that was a resounding "YES!!!!" It was an incredibly liberating feeling to have that epiphany. Poor Mom could never understand why I thought that way.

Fortunately for her peace of mind, and the joy of my life; Kevin (whom I'd known since High School) and I fell in love and got married. The road that led me, or I should say us, to that point was not always easy. But it was SO worth the wait. We both got there because we kept Heavenly Father as our partner in every aspect of our lives, and followed where He led us.

We got engaged 24 years ago, today. Looking back, I can see how everything in my life before that day was leading me to that point. I can also see how everything since that day has led to greater and greater happiness. Not to say there haven't been bumps (or even MOUNTAINS) in our path along the way. But doing things the way Heavenly Father directed us; made everything worth it.

(Engagement photo)

Kevin often tells the story of when he told his dad that he was going to ask me to marry him. His dad said, "Son, if you marry Annette, you'll never be bored!". Kevin says truer words have never been spoken because in 23+ years of marriage, he's never been bored...and neither have I.

Thanks for asking me, Kevin! I'm SO glad I was smart enough to say "Yes!"

Baby, it's cold outside...

2012-01-23T09:50:00.000-08:00

It's the end of January. Welcome to winter in its fullest...brrrrrrrr

Does your world look like this?

Is something like THIS
a major part of your winter-wardrobe????

Do you FEEL like this?

...or this?

Have no fear...give in to no winter-doldrums...
Spring is ONLY a month and a half away.

In case a month and a half feels like it's WAAAYYYY too long for you to wait, I have a few suggestions to get you through the winter-time blues...

These may seem silly, but if they help even a little, they'd be worth it!

1: Force some spring-flower bulbs in the house. Nothing is more cheerful than daffodils or tulips brightening up your home on a cold-winter day.
2: Find some tropical pictures or spring/summer-time pictures and use them as wallpaper on you computer.
3: Cut pictures of warm, sunny places out of magazines and put them up around the house. Who cares if they aren't framed...they'll make you smile and dream tropical dreams.
4: Listen to summer-time music...eg: Beach Boys, Kenny Chesney, or island-music
5: Think "sunny-thoughts"...look for the good in your life and count your blessings.
6: Look for someone for whom you can be of service. It doesn't have to be anything major. It could be a quick cheerful email or note. It could be saying hello to the person who bags your groceries, or a "Have a nice day" to the teller at the bank. Find someone to serve and your spirits will lift, I promise!

At Church we sing a song titled, "There is Sunshine in My Soul, Today". If you're feeling some winter-time blues, try to find the good in the world around you, think positive thoughts, and find the "sunshine in your soul". ...and don't lose hope...

Spring really IS just around the corner!

Worth the wait...

2012-01-04T22:24:00.000-08:00

I love the message of this little video. Watching these kids wait was priceless.

...and the reward for their wait was brilliant. Best of all, the object lesson as it relates to eternity was perfect. Watch and enjoy!

Adieu...2011

2011-12-30T11:01:00.000-08:00

With one day left of 2011, it would be natural to look back in reflection over the events of the past year. For some reason however, I don't feel the need to do much of that.

The health issues I had seemed to over-shadow everything else, but the highlight of my year was our visit to Ohio. When I reflect on my surgery and its complications, what I feel most is gratitude. These events changed me and helped me become a better, more charitable person. Our trip to Ohio for my niece's wedding brought me great joy and the warmth of reuniting with beloved family.

As we put 2011 to rest, I am grateful. Grateful to still be here with my family and friends. Grateful for lessons learned. Grateful for change and improvement. Grateful for a loving Father-in-Heaven who has a plan for my happiness. Simply grateful...

So, farewell 2011!
Bring on 2012!!!

...and HAPPY NEW YEAR, everyone!!!!!!!!!

For Unto Us...

2011-12-24T10:23:00.000-08:00

...a child is born....

He is THE reason we celebrate!

"O come let us adore Him...."

Merry Christmas!

It's been 12 years...

2011-12-12T09:38:00.001-08:00

...since my mom passed away. I think about her everyday. Mostly because everyday there is something I do or say, or teach my kids that she taught me.

Mom had such a great appreciation for fine things. She taught all of us to know and recognize beauty and quality in the things around us. My sister, Caline, has translated that into a thriving business as an antique's dealer.

Mom was a gifted pianist. She loved beautiful music. One of my favorite memories was when she would practice the piano. She'd send us kids out to play, then sit down to practice her piano. I don't know if she realized how often we would sneak back into the house. We'd just sit and listen to her play for hours. She was amazing. I'm sure that love of music is a big reason my brother, Marc is such a gifted choir director and has such a passion for music.

Mom was also a HUGE history buff. She grew up during World War II in Belgium, when it was occupied by the Germans. She was always telling us stories about world history and about her country. I suppose that's why I was fascinated by history and world affairs. That fascination led to my college degree in International Relations.

We all laughingly called Mom the "Queen of Manners". She never failed to ensure that we had good table manners. Because of Mom, all of us know how to properly set the table, handle formal dining, and behave properly in public. We've tried to pass those lessons on to our children. My daughter, Jackie, is very proud of her knowledge of manners and social graces. She owes that knowledge to her Nana...

Mom loved our Dad... He was her heart...first, last, and always. I'm sure none of us ever doubted that Dad came first with Mom....that also, was a great legacy to leave her children.

Mom passed away 12 years ago today....still as I look at those she left behind, I can see that she never really left us at all!

I love you, Mom....I still miss you.

Homecoming...

2011-12-10T21:19:00.000-08:00

Since Amanda's High School doesn't have a football team, their Homecoming is based on the first home-game for the basketball team. This year, that fell in December.

Here are some pictures of Mandy's final Homecoming for High School. *sigh*
Moments like this are SO bittersweet in a Mom's life...

She just grows more lovely everyday...*sigh*

New things I'm sharing...

2011-12-01T05:52:00.001-08:00

You all know I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I love my Faith and all the ways in which it blesses me and my family. I am also more than willing to share what I believe with anyone who might be curious. That being said, I also understand if some who read this don't need or want to know about my religion. In my opinion, we are all entitled to make our own choices about what we believe or don't. I respect that right to choose, more than anything.

Having said all that, I am SO excited to share a link to my profile on "Mormon.org". This is a website designed for people who want to know more about the Church of Jesus Christ and what it entails. Members of the Church are encouraged to participate in order to help share our beliefs. I took the opportunity to share some things about me and why I am a member of the Church. For those who are interested or want to see, the link is: http://mormon.org/me/3DXN/

This is a HUGE part of who I am and who we are as a family. Since this blog is about our family, I/we wanted to share this new endeavor with all of you.

We love you all!!!

Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving...

2011-11-24T08:36:00.001-08:00

Counting blessings is something I try to do everyday, not just on Thanksgiving. Today is also Kevin's 50th Birthday! This year, I have so much to be thankful for. Our family has been through quite a bit....mostly because of me.

I am grateful that I still get to be here on this earth. I am grateful for my wonderful family. Kevin is not a perfect man, but he is perfect for me. He has helped me and been there for me through thick and thin. He's a great dad and an incredible husband. He is quite simply, the love of my life.

I am grateful for my two incredible daughters. They are the joy of my life. They make me laugh, they keep me awake at night (for SO many reasons), they help me stay young, they inspire me, and they bring me joy. Getting to see life through their eyes is a gift and a blessing. I love my girls.

I am grateful for my extended family...those who live with me, and those who are far away. They have all enriched my life more than I can say.

I am grateful for a physical body. It's a miracle and a gift from Heavenly Father. I am grateful for medical science and all the doctors and nurses who have kept me alive and helped me get healthy again. I am grateful for every breath I take.

I am grateful for a warm, cozy home and the haven and shelter that it is! I am grateful for the food we have to eat. Today especially I am grateful for food! In these economic times, I am grateful for work and the living that Kevin provides for our family.

I am grateful for family traditions...today especially; as we sit as a family and watch the "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade". I remember doing this when I was a kid...now my kids wouldn't miss it! It wouldn't feel like Thanksgiving without it!

Most of all, I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know He lived and died to teach and bless all mankind. He atoned for my sins and because of Him I know I can live again with my family and my Heavenly Father again.

I am grateful for my life and all the joy, trials, gifts and blessings that make up this crazy, wonderful, existence I have here at Happy Acres.

God bless you all, and Happy Thanksgiving!

Earning the right...

2011-11-10T20:32:00.000-08:00

Back in September 2005, on the first day of school, Martha Cothren, a social studies school teacher at Robinson High School in Arkansas , did something not to be forgotten. On the first day of school, with the permission of the school superintendent, the principal and the building supervisor, she removed all of the desks out of her classroom.

When the first period kids entered the room they discovered that there were no desks.

'Ms.. Cothren, where're our desks?'

She replied, 'You can't have a desk until you tell me how you earn the right to sit at a desk.'

They thought, 'Well, maybe it's our grades.'

No,' she said.

'Maybe it's our behavior.'
She told them, 'No, it's not even your behavior.'

And so, they came and went, the first period, second period, third period. Still no desks in the classroom.

By early afternoon television news crews had started gathering in Ms.Cothren's classroom to report about this crazy teacher who had taken all the desks out of her room.

The final period of the day came and as the puzzled students found seats on the floor of the deskless classroom, Martha Cothren said, 'Throughout the day no one has been able to tell me just what he/she has done to earn the right to sit at the desks that are ordinarily found in this classroom. Now I am going to tell you.'

At this point, Martha Cothren went over to the door of her classroom and opened it.

Twenty-seven (27) War Veterans, all in uniforms, walked into that classroom, each one carrying a school desk. The Vets began placing the school desks in rows, and then they would walk over and stand alongside the wall. By the time the last soldier had set the final desk in place those kids started to understand, perhaps for the first time in their lives, just how the right to sit at those desks had been earned.

Martha said, 'You didn't earn the right to sit at these desks. These heroes did it for you. They placed the desks here for you. Now, it's up to you to sit in them. It is your responsibility to learn, to be good students, to be good citizens. They paid the price so that you could have the freedom to get an education. Don't ever forget it.'

Thank you to all who have served and still serve.
God bless you all, and thank you!

Speaking in Church....

2011-11-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, Kevin and I were given the opportunity to speak in our Ward. I am posting my talk here, because in it, I spoke about my experiences this Summer and Fall; and what I learned from them. It was vastly life-changing to me, and I wanted to share it with you. Please understand that these are my thoughts and feelings. If they touch your heart and help you feel good; that's great. I am just sharing, not preaching.

Becoming Better Acquainted with my Savior:

In December of 2009, I had a consultation with the orthodontist about some of my teeth that had shifted position. That consultation led to a referral to an oral surgeon, which in turn led to a sleep study to re-evaluate my sleep apnea. In the end, it was determined that I had severe sleep apnea which was not being aided enough by the c-pap machine I used to breathe at night. The neurologist who read the results of the sleep study told me that it wasn’t a matter of if I had a stroke or a heart attack; but a matter of when I had a stroke or heart attack. This gave Kevin and me much to think about. We had watched my father linger for a year and a half after having a debilitating stroke that left him paralyzed down half his body. It was heart breaking to watch him suffer like that. I didn’t want to go that way, and I definitely didn’t want to put my family through it, either.

With the results of my sleep-study in hand, we returned to the oral surgeon. The solution that was presented was extreme and frightening. Extensive jaw surgery to open my airway and allow room for my tongue was the option presented. Frightening as this appeared to us at the time; it also felt like the right choice. The spirit was whispering that this was the course to take. As we contemplated our choices, I could see two possible futures stretching out before me. In one, I did nothing and took my chances that I could avoid a heart attack or stroke… that seemed to me like being an ostrich and burying my head in the sand to avoid seeing the danger approaching. In the other; I saw a time of trial and challenge as I underwent surgery, followed by the future I hoped to have. One where I grew old with Kevin, watched my children and grandchildren grow up, served missions with my sweetheart, and lived-out my life in the service of the Lord. I knew without a doubt, that the second future was the one I wanted – it was the right one for me!

Just a month prior to my surgery this May, I watched April General Conference. During the Saturday morning session, Elder Kent F. Richards of the Seventy gave an address that seemed directed specifically to me. His talk was entitled: “The Atonement Covers all Pain”. In this talk, Elder Richards says: “I have pondered about the purpose of pain. None of us is immune from experiencing pain. I have seen people cope with it very differently. Some turn away from God in anger, and others allow their suffering to bring them closer to God”. He also quotes 2 Nephi 9:21: “And he cometh into the world that he may save all men if they will hearken unto his voice; for behold, he suffereth the pains of all men, yea, the pains of every living creature, both men, women, and children, who belong to the family of Adam.”

He used this scripture to illustrate how we can become better acquainted with our Savior by enduring well, the pain and suffering we experience in our lives. I felt as if the Spirit was testifying to me that my upcoming surgery was an opportunity for me to become better acquainted with my Savior – for me to become more like Him. Elder Richards also quoted Elder Orson F. Whitney, who wrote: “No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude, and humility. … It is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation that we gain the education that we come here to acquire”. This brought to my mind a song by Hillary Weeks, entitled “Prove Me”

“A fearless heart, unwavering faith, the kind of courage and conviction that it takes to leave your home behind or part the Red Sea. I wonder, did God plant that kind of strength in me. Just a seed now, but maybe it will grow… ‘Til prison walls crumble-down around me, and I’ve escaped unscathed from the lion’s den. When I have walked so far the handcart starts pushing me… until then…prove me

Centered on the wheel, like clay in Your hands, ready to be shaped and molded by Your plan. And if You’ll take this heart, willful as it seem, and through Your mercy refine me until I’m complete. Though I’m weak now, You can make me strong… ‘Til on a wall, arrows cannot harm me, until my faith leads me into a grove of trees. When every nail’s in place before the rains and floods come-down…until then…prove me.

I will step into the fire so Your love can purify me and I’ll stay until You say I am through. Wash away all the flaws and every earthly imperfection, until my will turns to you… Until I trust without hesitation, when humility has chased away the pride, until the day through Your grace I’m welcomed home…until then…Prove me!”

I thought this was my chance to learn and grow and take another big step toward becoming the daughter of God Heavenly Father wanted me to be. So I went to the hospital on May 16^th with this prayer in my heart – “Heavenly Father, I know this is going to be a long, painful process. But I know that with Thy help, I can endure this and become who You want me to be. So, take me and teach me, I’m ready to learn.” I have to insert here, that when you pray, you need to be careful what you ask for. Because He listens, and He WILL give you what you ask for.

My surgery was scheduled to last approximately 7 hours. It took almost 12. They did ten separate procedures on me during that time. Because so much was being done in and around my throat, the first thing they did was put in a tracheostomy so I could breathe during and after surgery. We were told beforehand that this would be the simplest thing they did. Little did any of us know what complications would ensue from that “simple” procedure. Due to having the trache, I was kept in the Intensive Care Unit for most of my two week- recovery. Also due to the trache, I was not able to speak, so I had to rely on writing on a white board to communicate.My time in ICU seems like a bit of a blur, but some things really stand out in my memory. The nights were the worst. I would sleep for an hour or two, only to be awakened by the pain. Of course, I had to wait the appropriate length of time before I could receive any pain meds, so there was quite a bit of time spent in pain…without relief. During those times, I would ponder Elder Richard’s talk, and I would pray for comfort. I testify to you, that our Savior felt what I was feeling, and knew how to comfort me because I felt Him with me during those long, pain-filled nights. I testify that there IS a “balm in Gilead” and He is the “physician there”. One of the things that truly gave me comfort was being able to listen to General Conference on my MP3 player. During those long, dark nights, I would listen to the words of Heavenly Father’s chosen servants and find comfort and peace.

D&C 84: 88 reads:

I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.

When most of us think of Heavenly Father’s angels, we think in terms of Heavenly Beings from the other side of the veil. I know from my time in the hospital, that His angels come in many different forms and from BOTH sides of the veil. I had comfort and help from loved ones who have passed on. I also saw angels in the form of you, my Ward family; being there to bear me and my family up with your prayers and service. Trust me when I say that your prayers in behalf of another person are never wasted…and they really do help. Thank you for your love and service. They matter and they helped more than you will ever know. Other angels came in the form of nurses, doctors, and various staff at the hospital. They provided answers to my prayers in so many ways.

Twice, during my stay in ICU, the trache-tube got clogged. The first time, it was a bit scary, but they got it cleared fairly quickly. The next night was worse. The airway got clogged and closed off completely. There was no air coming in OR going out. I had been asleep and woke up choking for air. Thankfully, the respiratory therapist “had a feeling” something was wrong and stopped by my room unexpectedly. (I believe, with all my heart that he was listening to the Spirit) It took them an hour of intense effort to open it enough for me to get any measurable relief. During part of that time, as I struggled for air I wanted two things…I wanted Kevin, and I needed to pray. As soon as I had enough air to gasp my request, I asked them to call home and have Kevin come. Then I turned my efforts to praying for help. I didn’t get elaborate; I just kept it simple and asked for help to breathe. It would have been amazing if the clog had miraculously vanished and I could breathe freely. That didn’t happen, but what DID happen was a miracle to me. As the doctors manipulated the trache-tube, little bits of the clog would shift and I would get what I can only describe as little “sips” of air. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to keep me alive. Elder Dallin H. Oaks has taught: “Healing blessings come in many ways, each suited to our individual needs, as known to Him who loves us best. Sometimes a ‘healing’ cures our illness or lifts our burden. But sometimes we are ‘healed’ by being given strength or understanding or patience to bear the burdens placed upon us.”

My airway wasn’t miraculously cleared, but I was given enough relief to breathe even just a little and the ability to recognize the answer to my prayers when it came. When the crisis was over, Kevin gave me a beautiful Priesthood blessing. It was a very comforting experience, and brought me great peace.

If that had been the end of my experience, I would have thought…”Wow! Ok, that last part was REALLY scary, but it’s done and I learned to rely on the Lord and trust Him to help me.” Wouldn’t that be an appropriate finale? However, one thing I’ve learned during my life, and this time was no exception; is that we don’t get to say when the challenge or trial is over. It’s not our time-table, but Heavenly Father’s that matters. Apparently, although I thought I’d learned quite a bit and done some growing; Heavenly Father knew that I had more to learn and experience.

I had been home from the hospital for a few weeks when I started having a hard time breathing. Every test they ran showed nothing wrong, but I still couldn’t breathe. It felt like when my trachea had clogged in the hospital. One night during my personal prayers, after struggling for enough air just to get from the family room to my bedroom; I felt myself surrender to the Lord’s will. I said: “Heavenly Father, I don’t feel like it’s my time to die. I don’t feel as if You’ve been telling me it’s my time to go. I feel like I have so much more to accomplish on this earth. However, if it is my time, and You want me home; I’ll go. Not my will, but Thine be done.” The next morning, Kevin had to call the paramedics and I was taken to the Emergency Room via ambulance. The doctors were FINALLY able to discover what was wrong. When they were working so hard to clear the trache-tube during my first stay in the hospital, they damaged my airway. This allowed scar tissue to form and build up a blockage to my airway. That day, they performed surgery to stretch the scar-tissue out of the way and open my airway. This was a temporary fix, and the first of four more surgeries that I’ve had since the first one in May. Each time I had surgery; the scar-tissue would re-form and block my airway again. Needless to say, it’s been a challenging summer and fall for our family. We’re hoping that the surgery I had earlier this month will be the last. If it’s not, we’ll trust in the Lord and deal with whatever comes, when it comes. I’ve learned to rely on Heavenly Father and developed a willingness to accept whatever lessons He trusts me to learn from the challenges I encounter in my life. At one point, as I was being prepped for yet another surgery, I did what I always do at those times; I said a prayer. This time however, I said some words that I borrowed from the Hillary Week’s song I quoted earlier…

” I will step into the fire so Your love can purify me and I’ll stay until You say I am through. Wash away all my flaws and every earthly imperfection, until my will turns to you… Until I trust without hesitation, when humility has chased away the pride, until the day through Your grace I’m welcomed home…until then…Prove me!”

In that moment, I felt my will TRULY surrender to His and I realized that was what He wanted from me all along.

So over the course of the past few months, I’ve learned some things:

I’ve learned that having your jaws wired shut is an effective, if EXTREME weight-loss tool, and not one that I would recommend.

I’ve learned that I can survive on a lot less air than I ever imagined….

I’ve learned that we are never alone and that Heavenly Father sends His angels from both sides of the veil to buoy us up in our times of need.

I’ve learned that His angels can simply be neighbors and friends as well as beings from the other side of the veil.

I’ve had my testimony strengthened that Heavenly Father hears and answers EVERY prayer.

I’ve learned that Heavenly Father wants us to love and strengthen our families.

I’ve learned that Heavenly Father wants us to love and serve one another.

I’ve learned that doing what Heavenly Father wants is the MOST important thing in our lives.

Finally, I’ve had my testimony reaffirmed that Jesus lives and is our Savior. He is uniquely and perfectly qualified to succor us in our times of need. To quote another Hilary Weeks song…He Is:

“He is the first ray of sun to reach above the mountain. He’s a gentle ocean breeze on my face. He is raindrops moving slowly down my window. He’s a long deep breath at the end of the day.

He is a warm afternoon at the end of September. He’s a brilliant sunset sky. He is a silent snowfall and the deafening crash of thunder. He is endless stars on a cloudless night.

He is the laughter of children and the wonder in their eyes. On a distant rocky shore, He’s a clear and steady light.

He is wrinkled hands and tiny newborn fingers. He’s the beckon that calls you home. He is the sturdy staff that leads you to drink beside still waters. He’s the reason why the lilies grow.

He is a sermon on a mount. He is a widow and her mite. He is the blind man’s first glimpse of light. He is a garden and a prayer. He is two strangers on a hill. He is an empty tomb and the price that Heaven paid. He is our chance to try again.

He is open arms. He is a quiet invitation. He is hope when hope is gone. He is lasting peace and the answer we are seeking. He is the pathway home.

He is… Yes, He is….”

I testify to you that He is our Savior and Redeemer. He died to atone for our sins. He knows each of us by name and knows exactly how to bless and help us in our times of need. He is the Christ, the only begotten Son of God. He lives and because of Him we can return and live with our Father in Heaven again. Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!!!

Creepy kids

2011-10-28T22:18:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures I took as my kids left for the Halloween Dance at Amanda's High School. I have to say that I wouldn't want to meet Amanda's character on a "dark and stormy night", but Jackie REALLY creeps me out!

Poor Linlee...her "Pokemon" guy keeps being victimized...

...but THIS is the stuff NIGHTMARES are made of...

More from Ohio...

2011-10-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, I promised more stuff from our trip to Ohio.

Sorry it's taken me a couple of weeks. I DO have a fairly decent excuse.... I had what I hope will be my final surgery to clear my airway, last week. Keeping our fingers crossed, and we'll be sure to keep everyone posted!

So, we went to Ohio for my niece, Stephanie's, wedding. What we ended up having was a mini-family reunion. Some pieces of our family were missing, and sorely missed, but we had a great time with those who were there!

This was Thursday before the wedding.
Stephi's brother, Trevor came with his fiance, Annaliese (Liese)
So we have from left to right starting in the background:
Kevin, Liese, Jason (the groom), Charlie, Trevor (with his back to the camera) Me, with Jackie leaning on me, and in the very front... GUS-THE-WONDER-DOG!!!

Caline on the front porch with my girls

Charlie and Mandy on our way home from Kirtland
(More pictures of that excursion coming later)

10 years ago, Caline & I took a picture together in front of this barn!
It better NOT be 10 year 'til the next one!!! lol

Another set of sisters in front of the tobacco-barn
...silly sisters...

REALLY silly cousins

It was so much fun...I just have to say...
I LOVE my family!!!!

Eighteen Years ago...

2011-10-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

...a miracle occured...

A truly courageous woman gave birth to a beautiful, tiny, dark-haired angel-girl. She called her "Sarah". This amazing woman had 24 precious hours with this little bundle of joy. During that time, she sang to 'Sarah' and told her the story of her (Sarah's) life, so far. 24 short hours later, this valiant, courageous woman generously gave 'Sarah' to the LDS Family Services adoption counselors. Who in turn handed her to me and Kevin.

Everyday, for the past eighteen years, I have thanked my Heavenly Father for the miracle we call Amanda. Everyday I have thanked my Heavenly Father for the selfless woman who gave her life and answered our prayers.

October 18, 2011 is Amanda's 18th Birthday. As we celebrate the wonderful young woman our daughter is becoming, I pray that her birth-mother will feel peace in knowing she did the right thing...and I pray that she has been blessed for the choice she made.

She certainly blessed our lives and I can never thank her enough.

Happy Birthday to my "Angel-Girl"! I'm so grateful I get to be your Mommy and so proud to call you my friend. I love you more than words can tell!!!

Ohio

2011-10-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

We just got back from Ohio. I have SO many pictures to post, I've decided to start with the ones that directly apply to our reason for being in Ohio... The wedding of Stephanie Lauren Wozniak to Jason Hamilton.

If I had to describe the event in one word, it would be "HAPPY". When you see Jason and Stephi looking at each other, that's the first word that comes to mind. They look completely happy. It is lovely to see.

So, here are the pictures I have of the wedding and reception. Enjoy!

See what I mean?????

Me and two of my favorite women

My beautiful niece, Mrs. Hamilton

First dance as a married couple

Daddy/Daughter dance with her Daddy, Steve Wozniak

Daddy/Daughter dance with her step-Daddy, Charles Ruggles
(who also performed the marriage ceremony and did a fabulous job)

From the "Wish you were here..." table

Mother of the Bride (my sweet sis) Caline
and her sweetheart, Charlie.

Me and MY sweetheart, Kevin

The end for now. I have tons more pictures from other activities, but thought these were the most important. It was a wonderful, HAPPY time for all of us!

Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton!!!!!!!!!

...again, not for the squeamish...

2011-09-19T09:28:00.000-07:00

Somehow "here we go again"...seems a little redundant, but really, here we go again. Maybe I should laugh since crying seems a little melodramatic.

On August 30, I had a follow-up appointment with the doctor who did my last bronchoscopy. Once again, they ran a scope down my airway and determined that the scar-tissue had come back and was obstructing my airway. This time however, my jaws had limbered up enough that they thought it would be possible to get the laser down to "laser-out" some of the scar tissue.

Surgery was scheduled for Tuesday, the 13th of September. Then they sent us home to wait for my surgery-date. Unfortunately, the scar tissue in my airway had different plans. Each day my breathing became more and more labored. Each day I could do less and less for myself and my family. Until finally when I woke up on Friday, September 9, 2011; I could hardly breathe at all. Kevin called Dr. Smith's office (he's the airway specialist), and told them what was going on. Kev was told to take me IMMEDIATELY up to Salt Lake City to the University of Utah Medical Center's emergency room, where Dr. Smith would see me.

Off we went, and ended up spending most of the day in the ER; while the staff did all they could to maintain my airway. Most of their efforts involved steroids with various forms of administration (ie: nebulizer treatments and through my IV). By the way, being treated with a large dosage of steroids is NOT something I recommend. My hands had more tremors than the "San Andreas fault"...it took hours for them to stop shaking.

Finally, in the evening, Dr. Smith got me into the Operating Room where they performed a laser bronchoscopy to eliminate some of the scar-tissue and open up my airway. Thankfully the treatment worked and I came out of it breathing much more freely; so they allowed me to go home that night.

Once again, they gave us some REALLY colorful pictures to show the results of my emergency surgery.... Here's where you want to stop reading if you have a low tolerance for graphic images...

The images on the far left are before surgery, so I was breathing through that little hole. The top center is after the laser-cuts were made. The bottom center is when the balloon was inserted and inflated to push the laser-cut scar-tissue out of the way. The bottom right is the swab with medication on it. The medication was to encourage the scar tissue NOT to come back. Top right picture is the finished product.

This was the first treatment. I have another surgery scheduled for October 18, 2011. If all goes well, that will be my last for this issue. However, they may need to do a final treatment a month after that, in order to get the last of the scar tissue out of the way. Hopefully after these last three procedures the scar tissue will not grow back; although that is always a possibility. UGH!!!

So, there you are...one more chapter in the saga of "Netty's Jaw Surgery with Complications"... This is sounding like a bad melodrama....I suppose we could finish this post with some ominous music...

DUN-DUN-DUUUUNNNNNN!!!!

Beginning of the end...

2011-08-18T12:28:00.000-07:00

It seems like yesterday but was really 13 short years ago, I took my heart in my hands and saw my first "baby" off to school. Part of me felt like my heart would break. Part of me couldn't wait to hear about her adventures and new friends; or to see that first school year through her eyes.
Today I felt the same way.... Today was the first day of Amanda's last year of High School. Again, part of me feels as if my heart will break. Part of me can't wait to hear about her adventures and new friends; or to see the final year of High School through her eyes.

This year seems to be about beginnings and endings.

This year is also a beginning and ending for our Jackie. This week marked the start of Jackie's final year of Middle School. After this year, she will be a High School student. Again, I find myself torn between the bittersweet and being eager to see this experience from Jackie's unique perspective.

There go my babies...
taking wing and flying from the nest.

This day has come much quicker than I like. Still, I look back without regret and forward with eagerness to see what other adventures lie in store. Being "the Mom" has been the biggest adventure of my life. I wouldn't trade it for anything. Given all that is past, I can only look forward with anticipation for what lies ahead.

Let the adventures continue...

Hang onto your hats,

it's gonna be one heck of a ride!!!

We're jammin'

2011-08-08T20:20:00.000-07:00

Saturday we drove up to Brigham City. We bought 10.67 pounds of cherries. Saturday night we sat around the kitchen table and pitted and stemmed all of them. Kev, Deb, Marc and I had the purple fingers to prove it...still do!

Today we made cherry jam and canned 20 pints!!! Two year ago we did this and messed up the recipe so badly that it didn't jell. It tasted GREAT on pancakes and waffles...but didn't do well on toast or PB&J's...

This time I think we did it right. The jars are still cooling off, but the jam looks like it's jellin' just fine! Yay! Guess it's true that practice makes perfect.

Next we're canning the bushel of apricots that we bought on our trip to Brigham City. Apricot jam, anyone?

We runned away!

2011-08-05T20:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday after we sent our children off to Youth Conference for our Church, Kevin and I decided it was time for the parents to run away from home. Being responsible (ok, SEMI-responsible) adults, we didn't run far. We did, however run to a place we've never been before.

We decided to explore another of Utah's beautiful canyons. This time, we went up into the foothills above Salt Lake City, into Immigration Canyon. It was just lovely.

On our way into the canyon, we came upon a little cafe called:

We decided to stop for dinner and were glad we did. The food was wonderful. Now, I am a fan of jazz music - generally speaking. However, I am NOT a fan of improvisational jazz. Unfortunately, we were seated at a table right under a speaker and the background music was jazz-improv. After about 15 minutes, we decided to brave the patio dining area (in spite of the rain) in the hopes that the music would be more background and less intrusive. It worked for awhile. Then they switched the music to a more blue-grass sound. I like blue grass music as well, and initially, this was very enjoyable. Until a woman started singing in what sounded like an oriental style...along with the original blue-grass singer! It became comical as Kevin and I struggled not to laugh too loudly. The kicker was when a third singer joined the first two. The new singer was singing what sounded like a Native American Indian chant. Kev and I decided that this was multi-cultural blue grass music. Asian/Apache/Blue grass, to be exact. It definitely added entertainment to our meal, just not the way the restaurant intended, I'm sure.

We finished our drive through the canyon, and enjoyed the gorgeous scenery accented by the thunderstorm that chased us home!

Could that last song have been a chant for rain???
(if so, it worked)

AIR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-07-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

Well, as if I haven't already had enough crises lately...yesterday we had one more. To make a long story shorter, Kevin ended up rushing me BACK to the hospital Emergency Room because I couldn't breathe again. Their temporary treatment involved putting me on "Heliox", which is a mixture of helium and oxygen. I guess the helium goes down the restricted airway easier. The interim result is that I sounded alternatively like Mickey Mouse...

Or "Squeaky", the Eight Dwarf!!!

After some consultation between doctors, it was decided to transport me up to the University of Utah Medical Center in Salt Lake. There I was rushed into surgery by Dr. Marshall Smith - a professor and expert in airway medicine and treatment. That he would make time to treat me so promptly, and fit me into his very busy schedule is a miracle in and of itself. He even bumped another emergency surgery out of the Operating Room because he felt I was more of an urgent case. I guess I just hadn't realized just how much of an emergency my situation was. Dr. Smith was able to insert a breathing tube down my esophagus and use that to thread a balloon down the scar tissue obstruction...which had now shrunk to a 5 millimeter opening!

YIKES!!!

With the balloon, he was able to get the opening to 15 mm after which he injected the scar tissue with steroids to encourage it to stay shrunk!

That was last night. I got out of surgery around 9pm. I was released from the hospital at about 10:00 this morning. Kevin took me to Temple Square to see the beautiful gardens and enjoy being outside. Something I haven't been able to enoy for the last two months.

Bottom line is: I CAN BREATHE FREELY!!!!

...and I no longer sound like HIM:

Ode to a Sister...

2011-07-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, not REALLY an "ode"... but it sounded good!

She's smart...
She's funny...
She's short (haha Caline, had to put that in here!)
She's always been first to jump in to defend me!
She's my big Sister....
...and she's turning 39 (again!) today!

Happy Birthday to my BIG Sister!

I love you, Sis!!!

Happy Independence Day

2011-07-03T15:36:00.000-07:00

"...We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed... We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world... declare that these united colonies, are and of right ought to be free and independent states...And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor."

Here, in part, is what started it all... An idea - a dream - a vision that refused to die. Two hundred and thirty-five years later, we've been through a lot. Still the dream refuses to die. To use the words of our Founding Fathers, thank "Divine Providence" for that!!!

We've weathered wars and internal strife. We've seen acts of incredible bravery and moral corruption. We've seen "heroes proved in liberating strife"; who also gave their lives and sacred honor to preserve this great nation. As a nation, we are not perfect, but we are still the greatest nation on the earth.

With all my heart, I say thank you to those who have done so much to establish and preserve this great nation. With all my soul I echo the cry...

Not for the squeamish...

2011-06-29T13:04:00.001-07:00

Talk about "Tender Mercies" and thank Heavens for Paramedics, ER doctors, and modern medicine!

Monday morning, I got up and went to the bathroom. Suddenly, my already difficult breathing almost stopped altogether!!! After trying to get it under control for several minutes, I managed enough air to call for Kevin's help. He was able to get me started on a nebulizer treatment to open my airway. I was prescribed this treatment to be done once every 4 to 6 hours. We did THREE in the space of a half hour and it barely made a difference.

At that point, Kev and I both realized that we were NOT going to be able to get me to the car and then to the hospital, so he called 911. The paramedics got here in minutes and took me to American Fork Hospital (the one closest to us). The ER doctor consulted with the Ear-nose & throat doctor who performed my tracheostomy last month, and they agreed to have me transported back to Utah Valley Regional Med. Ctr. where I had my surgery in May.

I was admitted and the ENT showed up later that afternoon to try and use a scope to see what was obstructing my breathing. The light on his scope burned out just as he got the silly thing past my vocal cords, so he scheduled a broncheoscomy for the next day.

This is what it showed... *warning, it's icky*

The top two pictures are of my vocal cords. The bottom left picture is the opening in my upper trachea (the size it SHOULD be). The bottom right picture is the lower part of my trachea and the area causing all the problems. THAT was what I was trying to breath through...YIKES!!!!!!!! It is shrunk by scar tissue caused by the tracheostomy they installed for my surgery in May. This condition occurs in only 5% of tracheostomy patients. (It figures I would be one of the 5%)

As soon as they realized the seriousness of this condition, they rushed me down to surgery to try and open the airway. Everything was complicated by the fact that since my jaws have been imobilized for the last 6 weeks, I can't open my mouth very far, even WITH the closing bands removed. The ENT almost cancelled the whole thing because he didn't think he'd have room to maneuver! As they were putting me under, I was saying all kinds of prayers that this would work. First question I asked as I came out of the anasthetic was "Did it work????" I was SO relieved when they said it had!!! Then I was saying all kinds of "Thank you, Heavenly Father!!!" prayers that it worked!

They kept me overnight to monitor my breathing and make sure I was ok. This morning they sent me home. My three-day adventure was over! The ENT wants me to follow up with the "Airway-clinic" at the University of Utah Medical Center in Salt Lake. He wants to see if their specialists can ensure that my airway stays open...I would like that, too!!!

For now, I'm home and breathing fairly easily! I have to keep a humidifier in whatever room I happen to be in. Dry air is BAD for this scar-tissue situation.

There's just NEVER a dull moment at our house, is there?

Still more "Tender Mercies"

2011-06-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

I thought that recovering from all the surgery I had was going to be difficult enough. However, just when you think things are tough....they can get worse.

A week ago, I developed some serious congestion in my lungs. I wheeze when I breath and have moments where getting enough air seems impossible.

I have been to the pulmonologist, had multiple tests, and finally went to urgent care, yesterday. The doctors say I have "Stridor", which is an adult form of croupe. Whatever name they give this condition; it makes breathing quite a chore. Going across the house can leave me completely without air. It's more than a little scary.

Fortunately, I got some treatment yesterday in the form of a steriod shot to ease the inflamation in my upper lungs, and antibiotics in case there's infection in there, too. It's working, but working slowly. The alternative is to go into the hospital for observation and to have them suction out my lungs.... No, THANK YOU!!!!

All that being said, I received another witness today, that my Heavenly Father is aware of me and knows just what I need. I have not been well enough to attend Church since the Sunday before my surgery (that was May 15th). I miss it, very much!

Today I was supposed to attend Church with Kevin at his Young Adult Ward. They were having a special musical number that Kevin wanted to share with me. Obviously, I wasn't able to go. When the young adults heard that I wanted to come and couldn't, they jumped into action. They got a portion of their Ward choir to come to our house. They treated us to a mini-concert of several beautiful hymns; including Julia Sanchez singing "I Stand All Amazed" - which happens to be my very favorite Sacrament hymn.

They didn't cure my breathing problems, but they helped heal my worried heart. I don't think they realize how much this meant to me or how much they helped me feel the Spirit. They were certainly instruments in the Lord's hands in showing me more of His "tender mercies".

I am very humbly grateful!!!

Home at last...

2011-06-02T07:21:00.000-07:00

...Actually, I got home Monday, but haven't had the energy to post anything before today. I'm doing this now, because today is "Doctor-day" and by the time we get home, I know I'm going to be a whupped-puppy!

Monday was probably the most difficult day of this whole experience. I felt better, I'd been moved up to the recovery floor after 14 days in ICU, and my surgeon had said I was going home that day. Unfortunately, it was also Memorial Day. Bit of advice...NEVER try to get discharged from the hospital on a Holiday. It doesn't work very well. In addition to that, the hospital doctor who was following my condition wanted to make sure I was getting enough nutrition without the feeding tube, so he wanted to keep me another 24 hours. When I heard that, I couldn't stop crying. I think one more day would have made me insane!

Not that I was being mistreated, by any stretch of the imagination, I just needed to be home! I couldn't believe how absolutely desperate I was to get back to my family! The staff at the hospital had been exceptionally kind, patient, and understanding. Even when I spent a good deal of Monday bursting into tears seemingly without provocation. I think they were trying to calm me down so I didn't precipitate the flooding we've been so worried about. haha

FINALLY, my surgeon came in to see me. He reviewed my caloric intake, checked my vitals, saw that I was packed and ready to leave, and promptly discharged me from the hospital.

I don't have the words to describe how it felt to walk through the door to our home. I'm a ninny, I know, but the tears would not quit flowing. Especially when I saw the surprise Kevin had made for me. Knowing that I'd be spending quite a bit of time recovering in our bedroom, Kevin LITERALLY spent hours redecorating and cleaning it. Instead of the place where things landed when nobody could figure out where to put them; our bedroom has become a quiet, peaceful, lovely place to come relax and feel at home. Kevin truly is the best man I know!

I am grateful, with all my heart to all the doctors, nurses, technicians, orderlies, and others who cared for me during my two weeks in the hospital. I can tell that God sends His angels where they can be of the greatest service...because He has so many of them there.

But I think Dorothy said it best and I agree with her 100%:

There's NO PLACE like home!!!

Ding-dong...

2011-05-28T15:32:00.000-07:00

...the trache is dead! Which old trache??? Netty's trache!!! Ding-dong Netty's trache is dead!!! It's gone where all old taches go, below? Below below Yo Ho Ho Ho Ho!!!"

The trache came out today. Breathing normally and feeling much better! Baby steps forward!

I was tempted to ask Marc if I could borrow his bus and run it over a few times, but he wasn't here! lol

Yay! Netty's tracheostomy-free!!!!

More tender mercies!!!!!!!!

Updates

2011-05-27T15:57:00.000-07:00

To be perfectly honest, anything that happened in my life between Monday, May 16, 2011 and Wednesday afternoon, May 18, 2011; is a big pain-filled; drug-induced blur.

I don't remember much except swirling grey darkness and kind voices and gentle hands reaching out to comfort me from the darkness. My life became very focused on when the next time the little green monitor light would flash on my medication pump. Those last few minutes between relief could get excruciating. At those times I began to feel something else. Somewhere, out there in the world outside of this ICU, someone was saying a prayer for me. In those moments, I would find peace and rest; and be able to carry on to the next time.

I've been here in ICU for 12 days, now. Fully five days longer than originally planned. I've had some of the most terrifying and painful moments of my life while I've been here. Times when the pain in the broken parts of my face merged into one big throb; and others when they'd all perform their individual solos in exquisite detail. Other times - terrifying times - when my trache tube would plug completely closed. At those times there didn't seem to be a mollecule of air on this planet with my name on it. Trying to find air for lungs that are completely blocked from it is painful and frightening.

I went into this procedure fully expecting to become better acquainted with my Savior through the pain and suffering I expected to endure. ....and I have. In the quiet of the night, alone in my room, struggling for breath or against pain, prayer was the only relief to be found. I know prayer is what found me those scraps of air that kept me alive the other night.

But most interestingly enough, where I've become better acquainted with my savior has been through the hands, arms, and voices of those He sent to care for me from both sides of the veil. So often we hear how He uses us to be angels in other people's lives. I've seen this with the angels here in ICU and those taking care of my family at my house.

Yes, I've become better acquainted with my Savior throughout this process...but as usual; not in the ways I expected. I asked Him to teach me what He wanted me to learn from all this. As usual, it was in His way, not Netty's way. All I can say is that I'm humbled by this opportunity He gave to me.

I have a dream...

2011-05-15T20:41:00.001-07:00

It's not a HUGE - DRAMATIC dream...pretty simple,but pretty important to me.

I live a happy existance with the love of my life and our two beautiful daughters. My dream is to grow old with my sweetheart and watch these two amazing daughters find their sweethearts. Then I want to be the fun and whacky grandma that their kids can't wait to spend time with. I want to go out with my Kevy and serve missions for our Church, so we can share the joy we've found in the gospel.

The problem with my dream is that I have severe sleep-apnea. So severe that the breathing machine I use at night is not really keeping it at bay. Without surgical intervention to correct the small size of my jaws and open up my airway; I am almost certainly going to have a stroke or a heart attack.

So, tomorrow morning...BRIGHT AND EARLY...I will head down to the hospital in Provo and undergo a 10-procedure surgery. I go with the love and prayers of all my friends and family...here on earth; and those who have gone on before me. I feel the love and prayers of all of you. I need you to know that without them, I don't think I could face this.

To be honest, I'm a little scared. I also have great faith that God knows my heart and sees the value of my dream. With that faith, I can hope with all my heart to see my dream come true.

I love you all! See you when I'm all better!!

Hugs and kisses,

Netty

Rites of Passage...

2011-04-28T09:12:00.000-07:00

What seems like a minute ago,
I was buying this dress for my first 'baby'...

Recently, I found myself buying
THIS dress for my first 'baby'...

Here are some highlights from
Amanda and Joseph's first Prom...

Earlier in the day, they went on a "Day-date" to a fun-center!
It was definitely fun!
haha

Amanda's date (Joseph Price), corsage and tickets in hand!
(Isn't he handsome???)

Corsage-time!

Boutonniere-time
(I get points for being able to spell it!)

...and off they go for the BIG event!

Another "Rite of Passage" goes down as a success
in Amanda's book of life!

...as her Mama and Daddy proudly watch their 'baby' take wing,
they heave a bittersweet sigh...

More Tender Mercies...

2011-03-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

Today I have been blessed with the opportunity to take stock of the good things in my life. It was a nasty, cold, snowy, windy day. But periodically throughout the day, the sun seemed determined to remind me that it hadn't given up on Spring!

Each time it struggled to break through the storm, the sun cast the mountains around me in beautiful contrasts of light and shadow. I couldn't help but be grateful for getting to live in such a beautiful place.

I had to pay bills today. As I did, I realized how blessed I was to be able to pay my bills. In these economic times, so many people can't.

I thought with more than a little trepidation about the surgery I am facing in May. Rather than dwell on my fears, I thought of the gift of modern medicine that allows this surgery to help prolong my life. Also, the fact that we have medical insurance to help defray what will surely be a major expense.

As I rushed around to pick up my kids and run the errands needed to care for my family, I realized how lucky I am that Kevin has the kind of job he does. Because of him and how hard he works to provide for our family, I can stay at home and be the mom. So many other women don't get the chance to do that. I am SO grateful!

Finally, we went to our dear friends' house for Family Home Evening. The Price family is awesome. Warren and Marnee have really done a great job teaching and raising their kids. Joseph gave a lesson for Family Home Evening; about the Prophet, Joseph Smith, and the "First Vision"

The lesson was simple, but the spirit was sweet. My faith and testimony were strengthened. The kids were profound in their genuine expressions of faith and testimony. Their faith bolstered mine.

This day ended with another example of Heavenly Father's "tender mercies" in my life and that of my family. We had a wonderful family night with great friends who made us feel welcome and included in their sweet family. We left with our stomachs and spirits filled and our hearts overflowing with fellowship, testimony and love. Thank you, SO much; Warren, Marnee, Joseph, Matthew, Hyrum, and Abby!

It's been an awesome Monday!

What a great way to start our week!

DUCK!!!!!

2011-03-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

...-LINGS!!!!!!!!!!!
Well, here they are! The newest denizens of Happy Acres!

In the box on the way home...

Safely nestled in their new home...

Close up...

She must be wondering what the camera is...
and why I won't let her sleep!

Napping on Netty...

Hello little-ones...
Welcome to Happy Acres
and life at the ZOO!!!!!!!!!!

Precious Moments...

2011-03-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's the little things that happen each day that make that day exemplary. Tuesday night it was the discussion we had over dinner. It probably didn't seem like much to the kids, but the conversation presented many opportunities for Kev and I to teach our children correct principles...without making a big "teaching moment" out of it.

Tonight, after Kev and I put away the last of our clean laundry, Jackie popped into our room to "chat". Again, the conversation turned to topics that allowed us to reinforce correct principles without coming across too "preachy" or "heavy". I consider these moments some of Heavenly Father's "tender mercies"; where we are given the opportunity to guide our children without seeming too pushy about it. Jackie & Manda probably didn't notice too much, but Kevin and I both recognized Heavenly Father's hand in these "parenting-moments" in otherwise ordinary days.

Here's another "tender mercy" moment from the Webster-archives... A Sunday outing to Temple Square. The bag contains lunches that the girls made so they could give food to the homeless people in the area.
In this picture, the girls are heading for a homeless man sitting next to the wall ahead of them. It's one of my favorite memories...

I LOVE my kids...and I LOVE being "The Mom".

Mandy has had an eventful week...

2011-03-06T20:51:00.000-08:00

To begin with, her school's drama department has been performing the play...

Starring, among others...

AND

The kids did a marvelous job!!!

After the final performance on "Closing-Night", the cast let off a little steam so the parents could take pictures...

While the rest of us waited patiently for them to finish...

(That's Amanda with Joe's little sister, Abby)

But thanks to Joseph, the evening ended with a bang!

She said "Yes"!!!

Now, THERE'S a happy girl!!!!

Nicely done, Joseph!!!

Fashion Show!!

2011-02-24T06:54:00.000-08:00

This week, we received this from the
Young Women in our Ward...

The girls were showing off their clothing style to demonstrate that it is possible to be stylish AND modest. Each young woman was requested to put together a modest outfit and show it in a "runway-fashion-show".

Here is what Jackie and Amanda came up with...

Yup, these are my girls...
Fashion-forward and modest too!

Sadie's Queen of Hearts

2011-02-15T06:04:00.001-08:00

AKA "The Sadie Hawkins Dance"...Starring: Amanda and Joe

The request:

Joe discovers the balloons...

Even "Mutant Balloons"

...and pops them creatively...

The Question has been asked

...and how did he answer?

750+ Tootsie Rolls

Then came the date...

Bowling...

...and a fun time was had by all!!!!

***The End***

Valentine's Day...

2011-02-14T09:55:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make...I am an incurable romantic. I LOVE hearts and flowers, and stories that end in: "...and they lived happily-ever-after!" Can't help it, that's just me. HOWEVER, I have never really liked Valentine's Day. Maybe it's left-over angst from Elementary School when you sat all day by the Valentine's Box or envelope you had decorated, waiting to see how many people wanted you for their Valentine.

OR maybe it's from all the years after when you waited for that "special someone" to ask you to be HIS Valentine. Maybe it's all of those things mixed in with my neurotic insecurities. Whatever the reason, Valentine's Day hasn't ever really been my favorite holiday.

Then it happened...23 years ago, on February 6th, 1988; Kevin William Webster asked me to be his, forever. Suddenly, I had a Sweetheart of my very own! That night, almost a week before Valentine's Day, became one of my happiest memories - EVER! It was sweet and magical; and led to my "Happily-Ever-After".

I used to dream of my "Knight in Shining Armor" sweeping me off my feet and carrying me off into the sunset. Now my Knight is my Kevin and all he has to do is smile the way he does - that lets me know he gets what I'm thinking, or kiss me good-bye (or hello, or good-night, or for anything at all), or dance with me in the kitchen while Jackie gags and Mandy goes "Whoo whoo!! Go Dad and MOM!!!" ...that's all it takes, and I'm swept away.

All these years later, and I STILL can't really say I'm the biggest fan of Valentine's Day. It may sound sappy, but with Kevin every day feels like Valentine's Day to me! He's the very best man I know, and I'm SO in love with my Valentine!

The Science of Food...

2011-02-08T19:56:00.000-08:00

At Jackie's school, they hold a science fair every year. This year, they gave us about three month's notice to come up with an idea and create an experiment. Jackie had some interesting ideas, but each of them were studies that would take YEARS to monitor and follow through. Most of her ideas involved things that effect your health and growth rate...definitely NOT things you can monitor over a couple of months.

FINALLY, about a week before the entire project was due, Jackie decided upon the idea of testing people's taste-abilities. She set up an experiment with various foods in full-fat and low-fat varieties. Then she got some victims...'er TEST SUBJECTS and the tasting began. Ultimately, Jackie's goal, at this late stage, was to have something (ANYTHING) to turn in so she could get a passing grade.

The project (hypothesis, question, research, experiment, results, charts, graphs, conclusions, etc.) was due Monday, February 7, 2011. Jackie BEGAN this project Sunday, February 6, 2011...IN THE EVENING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Needless to say, we were up until 1:30AM, completing everything.

Monday came and Jackie turned in her project. The Science Fair was TODAY (Tuesday, February 8, 2011). Imagine our surprise when Jackie brought THIS home from the Fair.

SHE WON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Of course, the fact that she changed her idea and experiment AT THE LAST MINUTE meant that we did NOT have the necessary paperwork for her to go on to the next level of competition. So Jackie and I spent this afternoon completing the paperwork so she could move on. That involved several trips to and from the school, getting consent forms from all the victims, and re-signing forms I had already signed for her previous project ideas. FINALLY, we're done and Jackie can move on to the next level of competition to be held at Utah Valley University on February 24, 2011.

We are very proud of our girl...last minute effort or not, she did a GREAT job!

A special thanks to her taste-testing-victims: Marnee, Joseph, and Matthew Price; and Dad,Mandy, and Grandma Webster (and ME!!). As well as Warren Price, who served as Jackie's lab-assistant.
Never have so many given so much for such a cause! We appreciate all of you, very much!

...and finally, to the star of our show!!!

WAY TO GO, JACKIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SWISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-02-01T20:25:00.000-08:00

So you all know Amanda is playing basketball for her High School, right?

In case you didn't...now you do!! haha

Here are some pictures of her on the court in a game earlier in the season...

At tonight's game, there were 20 seconds on the clock and the ball was loose on the court. Mandy raced for the ball, scooped it up, and dribbled the ball for a couple of steps. Then she turned, set, and took a jump-shot that had the ball circle the rim and SWISH!!!! Into the basket it went!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Classic play, good thinking, and a great shot!!! What a girl!!!!!!

WAY TO GO, MANDY!!!

YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!

In awesome wonder....

2011-01-14T07:25:00.001-08:00

I don't really know where to begin with this post. I am still awestruck and amazed.

I guess it all comes down to the shoes. When Amanda started basketball this year, I asked her if her shoes from last year were ok, or if she needed new ones. She said she was fine with what she had. Little did I know that THIS (see below) was what she planned on playing in.

A stylish fashion statement - maybe.
Good basketball shoes - not so much.

This past Tuesday, at her game, I heard someone ask what size shoe Mandy wore. I thought the coach was telling her to get better shoes. I made a mental note to shop for shoes the next day, and didn't give it another thought.

A little later, I noticed two girls (students at Amanda's school) walk in with a shopping bag and a shoe box. They handed them to Amanda and told her it was for her.
Then they walked out before I could get down the bleachers to thank them or pay them back. All the parents in the stands sat in amazement at this generosity. I mean... Who does that nowadays??? After the game I asked Amanda who the girls were, and she said just classmates from one of her classes. I asked her to get their names so I could pay them back or at least thank them.

Imagine my surprise when she came home from school yesterday with ANOTHER pair of shoes. This time, real basketball shoes.

The "Shoe-Angels" had struck again!!!

I still don't know who they are. I will definitely be making a more thorough inquiry into it. In the meantime, I am grateful and amazed. How nice can people be???

In the last two games, Amanda's playing has improved by leaps and bounds!

Maybe it's the shoes...

ps: I wrote the school Principal to let him know what amazing kids he has at the school. I was hoping that these girls would get some kind of recognition. Here is his response:

"I had no idea that this happened! Isn't it great that there are great people in the world, and here at Rockwell?!

I have found out who these students are, and have passed on your thoughts to them. They don't really want any recognition, but say they just did it because they wanted to do something nice for someone else."

Well, they DID do something nice, and I KNOW their kind actions were recorded in Heaven. Whoever they are, they have my deepest gratitude and thanks.

All Things Bright and Beautiful...

2011-01-11T07:06:00.001-08:00

"...all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator." Alma 30:44

Today God painted me a sunrise that took my breath away...and I was grateful.

R.I.P.

2011-01-10T06:59:00.000-08:00

...Stevie-the-duck...

Getting sick couldn't kill her...Stupid chickens couldn't kill her (twice)...CRAZED mink couldn't kill her....but the Utah winter finally did her in.

The girls are sad. Stevie was a funny little duck. I hope she finds a warm, safe, sunny-pond to live by in Heaven!

Ringing in the New Year!

2011-01-01T13:42:00.000-08:00

We spent New Year's Eve with the Price family. Joe and Mandy went to Homecoming together...

(remember this?)

...and we have become good friends with the entire family!
We were joined by other friend's of Marnee and Warren - the Huntington family! What great people!

All the kids hit it off and went to the Youth New Year's Eve dance together!

Brothers...

...Sisters...

...future 'GQ' models???

... FRIENDS!!!

...and a GREAT time was had by all!

Happy 2011 to all of us!

It is time...

2010-12-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

...to usher out the old and ring in the new!

Let's celebrate all the wonderful things
that happened in 2010...

...and make wishes for each other
for the incoming year!

... so all of us can have a...

Christmas and stuff...

2010-12-29T17:33:00.001-08:00

Ok, I've been VERY remiss in blogging over the Holidays. Sorry! Of course, y'all have probably been so busy you haven't noticed. In which case, ignore my apology. haha

Here are some of the things we did over Christmas break.

Belgian waffle/cookies. My Mom's recipe with Marc as the chef. Family tradition, we make them every year! YUMMY!!!

As you can see, we make quite a few (this was about half of what we ended up with. Usually we give them away. I'm not sure we parted with any this year, though...greedy-us! lol

Snowed the week before Christmas..

The snow was wetter than we are used to, so it clumped more. It made a lovely-heavy snow-roof on the chicken coop. The chickens did NOT leave the hen house while THIS was hanging over them. Must have been worried that the sky was falling.

Jackie went shopping with her Christmas money and this was the result!

Then, it snowed again, today! No white Christmas for us...maybe a white New Year!

...and this is AFTER I had the driveway cleared and Marc put down "Snow-melt"...It's been snowing all day!

We had a very Merry Christmas, hope you did, too.
We'll be with friends for New Year's Eve.
We wish all of you a safe and very Happy New Year!!!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T21:15:00.000-08:00

"For unto you is born this day,
in the city of David,
a Savior, who is Christ,
the Lord"

From all of us here at Happy Acres, we wish you a very Merry Christmas. As Tiny-Tim said... "...And God bless us, every one!!!"

O Holy Night!

2010-12-20T22:54:00.001-08:00

I just watched this video on Youtube. What a wonderful tribute for our reason for celebrating Christmas. I hope this helps you feel a bit more of the Holiday Spirit!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sma7YVkq4w&feature=player_embedded

Merry Christmas!

Happy Anniversary!

2010-12-01T12:32:00.001-08:00

To Caline: Who found her soul-mate in her Charlie.

To Charlie: Who loves my big sister and makes her SO happy...

On a lovely, quiet, snowy December 1st, evening - 10 years ago, they joined their lives and families.

Happy Anniversary to both of you!
With best wishes for many, many more to come!!!!

So glad you found your
"Happily Ever After"
in each other!

A Tale of Two Turkeys...and the Blizzard that never was!

2010-11-27T11:08:00.000-08:00

The day before Thanksgiving, we had a blizzard warning. Everyone battened-down the hatches and prepared for the "Blizzard of 2010".

From the front door...

View from our backyard

What it left on my front door...

In the end, it was more hype than substance, but the snow was beautiful as it came down.

Also the day before Thanksgiving, we got word that some of the Young Adults from Kevin's Ward were without a place to go for the Holiday. We weren't sure how many would be coming. We heard it could be three or more... Given that we already had eight people in the family, eating with us, we figured we didn't have a big enough turkey. Thus the "Tale of Two Turkeys" was born.

Defrosted and waiting for a bath and stuffing.

Bath-time complete

Gotta make the turkeys dance...

This is the bird that actually made it to the Thanksgiving table...

By dinner-time, we had WAY more food than we needed, even for the eleven people at the table...but what a feast it was!

In the end, I am grateful the "Blizzard" wasn't as bad as anticipated. I'm grateful we got to share the bounty of the season with kids who were far from home and family.. One from S. Carolina, one from Ecuador, and one from Rwanda by way of Belgium. I'm grateful that we had plenty to share and enough left over for all of us to get sick of turkey in a few days!

After all...gratitude IS what Thanksgiving is all about!

PS: I'm grateful I get to blog about it
and share our experiences
with all of you!!

Happy Birthday!

2010-11-23T20:54:00.001-08:00

...to the BEST man I know!!! Lucky me, I happen to be married to him!

He's many things to many people.

He's my Prince Charming!

My VERY best friend!

...A FUN Daddy!

...A Devoted Son and Nephew

...Sometimes Silly...

...a GREAT Friend!

...A Loving Brother...

Happy Birthday, Kevy!

I love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Interesting things...

2010-11-17T19:29:00.000-08:00

Here are some interesting things I've seen around my house, this week...

Looking South towards Provo, across Utah Lake.

The mask Jackie made in Art Class at school...

Across Utah Lake, looking towards the Wasatch Mtns.

Land of the Free...

2010-11-10T10:36:00.001-08:00

...Home of the Brave!!!

With many thanks to all those

past, present, and future
who bravely keep us free!

Ugh!

2010-11-08T12:36:00.000-08:00

*COUGH!

*CHOKE!!

*WHEEZE!!!

*SNARK!!!!

*SNORT!!!!!

*GASP!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bronchitis...my world...welcome to it! No, really...Please...take it away!

Spooky Acres...

2010-10-24T21:13:00.000-07:00

It used to be that I wouldn't allow my kids to be anything creepy or scary for Halloween. They dressed up as cute spiders, fairies, gypsies, princesses, and other non-frightening things. Now that they are teenagers that time is over. Saturday they all went to the Church Youth Halloween-Dance. This is what they came up with for costumes...

Jackie as a "Night of the Living Dead-Cheerleader"

Jackie's friend, Jairen as a "Night of the Living Dead-Prom Date"

...and then together

Amanda ended up looking like one of the "Volturi" from "Twilght"

She ended up matching her friend, Joe, who went to the dance as a vampire.

*Sigh*
I'm sad to say THESE days are over.
I'm wimpy enough to prefer cute and silly to weird and scary.

Guess I'll just have to leave the weird and scary to my kids. haha

Birthday's are special, but...

2010-10-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

This is the day Kevin and I remember most! We were living in Salem, Oregon. Six years of trying on our own, a year and a half of waiting for a phone call that seemed as if it would never come, and many, many miscarriages later... Our miracle occurred!!!

We had gotten the phone call the day before, "We have a baby-girl for you!". Kevin rushed home from work, thinking of all the possibilities those words foretold. More even, than I imagined. Toddler, school-girl, high school, college, mission?, and a mommy, herself. I couldn't think beyond the idea that we were FINALLY going to have a baby of our own! We snatched up Kevin's mom and drove to Portland. When we got there, we were told there had been complications and the baby would have to stay overnight in the hospital. With fear in our hearts, we took the longest drive of our lives, back to Salem. You see, by Oregon law at that time, until the adoptive family took custody of the child, the birth-mother could change her mind. We clung to the shreds of our faith, and prayed for peace.

Mandy's hospital portrait.

While we prayed and hoped, Amanda's precious Birth-mother had extra hours to snuggle and love this sweet baby-girl. She wrote to us later, describing how she held "Sarah" (as she called Amanda), sang to her, and told her how much she was loved. This extra time allowed her to find peace in her decision to give this child the home and family she felt Heavenly Father wanted for her. What an amazingly unselfish person. She will have our love and gratitude forever.

The next morning, we got "the" phone call again. This time, LDS Family Services had our baby at their Salem office. Again, we set out to meet our miracle-child. Grandma and Grandpa Webster came with us to record the event. Kevin and I were ushered into a HUGE conference room. An enormous table, surrounded by chairs and lit by a wall of windows, dominated the space. In a back corner, almost hidden by everything else, was a tiny cradle and a bundle in pink blankets. Our Adoption Counselor said, "I'll leave you alone to meet your daughter." "Our daughter".... those words almost seemed unreal to me. I was so afraid to touch her for fear that she would disappear and I'd wake up. I made Kevin pull the blanket back from her little face.

As soon as we saw her, we both knew her. It was instant recognition. "Oh, THERE you are!", I thought, "Of course you're ours!" Then Kevin said, "It's Amanda Noelle!". We had several names picked out, but as soon as we saw her, we knew who she was. Soon, she was enchanting every member of our family. She was our miracle, and brought-out the sweetest feelings of love from all our family and friends.

Right from the start, we called her our "Angel-Girl".

Seventeen years later...she still is!

We love you, Angel-Girl!!!! Thanks for being our daughter!

"She had a Birthday, Shout Hurray!!!"

2010-10-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

Here are a few highlights from Amanda's 17th Birthday...

Birthday cards are fun, ESPECIALLY when they contain surprises like cash and gift cards!
Thanks, everybody!!!

Kenyon College is near her "Auntie"
...AND the logo is PURPLE!!
Thanks, Auntie & Uncle Charlie
(the necklace is beautiful, too)

Mom got creative with the wrapping...

YAY!!! New bedding to match the newly-painted bedroom walls!

...and the GRAND-FINALE...
tickets to see the "Scarlet Pimpernel"
at the Hale Community Theater in Orem!
It was a great show!

She had a very Happy Birthday!
Thanks to everyone who made it that way!

PS: Joe (her date for Homecoming) got her a bag of her favorite candy for her birthday!

Let's say it all together, now: "Awwwwwwwwww". (He really is a nice guy)

There's something in the air...

2010-10-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

I think it's Fall! This is my favorite Season of the year! I love the hint of a crispness in the air, the long, deep, afternoon shadows, and the warm, vibrant colors. There's a sense of anticipation that perhaps comes from the last burst of energy all of nature gets before the long sleep of winter. Maybe it's the snap and spice of color and scent before the cold, white that's coming. Whatever it is, I love Fall!!!

Yesterday, I saw it all around me. In pumpkins on display...

and trees showing off their autumn splendor...

Maybe it was the nip in the air that I felt as I poked my nose out my door in the morning that inspired me. Whatever it was, it got me started. Inside my house it was warm, quiet, and cozy. Perfect for baking bread...

So I did!

As I finished up and the warm loaves were cooling,
I listened to my first (and one of my favorite) Christmas albums of the year...

I could feel my heart lift and my soul settle -
I felt peace, joy, and contentment...
Ah, the arrival of Fall!
Life is good!

It's a DATE!!!

2010-10-04T20:24:00.000-07:00

A week or so ago, Kevin and I ran away from home. We didn't go far, but we needed a date. Since money WAS an issue, we decided to be creative and cheap. We chose to let Mother Nature entertain us, and drove up American Fork Canyon. It is one of our family-favorites, so we knew we'd enjoy the drive.

Autumn was just beginning to make itself known and it showed in the beautiful reds and golds we saw along the way.

We talked and talked and talked...and enjoyed just being together. Eventually, we stopped and hiked up a trail to see if we could find a better view. We even tried a self-portrait...not our best effort. But the view was GREAT!

Fortunately, we met some new friends and exchanged picture-taking services. They did a better job on us than we did on ourselves. ha ha

Along the path, Kevin picked me a flower (see the picture above...)
The drive home came a bit sooner than we would have liked; but holding hands on the way helped.
Besides - the date was wonderful!

Home at last!
New pictures, sweet memories and my wildflowers in a vase.

*sigh*
I'm an awfully lucky-lady!
Thanks, Kev! I needed that!

Homecoming 2010

2010-10-01T22:57:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures of Amanda's first Homecoming Dance. Her date's name is Joe Price. We got to meet his parents tonight. They were SUCH nice people. We really enjoyed visiting.

Last night they took Amanda with them (the whole family) to find a tie for Joe to wear that matched Amanda's dress. She really enjoyed her time with them. I think they did a great job on the tie. All in all Amanda and Joe looked lovely together!

Enjoy...I know we (the parents) did!

This one is my favorite!

PS: Mandy and Joe had a wonderful time!

This one goes down in the books as a success!
YAY!

A couple of things...

2010-09-27T21:59:00.001-07:00

...happened today.

Mandy got asked to go to the Homecoming Dance at her High School. Of course we had to go dress shopping.

This was the winning dress!!!

I took this with my phone, so you can't see how the dress sparkles, but it's lovely!

...the second thing that happened was that Mandy's school pictures came in. Sophomore year, Fall 2010.

This is my Mandy!

She just keeps getting more and more beautiful!

I think her "Bonpa" (my dad) would be proud...

Happy Birthday!

2010-09-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the first man I ever loved and the one I still call "Daddy". My beloved father would have been 78 years-young, today. He's with Heavenly Father now, but always in our hearts.

Happy Birthday, Daddy. I love you and miss you everyday!

"A" is for.....

2010-09-22T21:51:00.000-07:00

JACKIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1st Parent-Teacher Conference of the year. Jackie is getting straight "A's"!!!! Glowing citizenship reports and good comments from all her teachers. Even the Principal and Assistant Principal had wonderful things to say about our girl.

WAY TO GO, MISS JACKIE!

We know you have really been trying hard and we are SO proud of you!

We've lost our marbles!!!

2010-09-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

...in more ways than one! ha ha ha

Last October in General Conference for the LDS Church, President Thomas S. Monson gave a talk about serving others. He told about expressing his birthday-wish for the members of the Church to find someone to serve. The response to that was overwhelming. President Monson then told about a Primary (children's organization) group that filled a jar with "warm fuzzies" each time they did an act of service.

This talk inspired a Family Home Evening lesson, last year. Although we are a very loving and demonstrative family, we felt that we weren't a "warm-fuzzy" kind of clan. So we devised a different way to monitor the progress of any service we did. I got a jar and labeled it "Service Marbles".

Then each member of the family got a different colored marble. Every time one of us performed an act of service, we lost a marble to the jar. The acts of service ranged from simple, little, often unnoticed acts; to big long-term helpfulness that had a huge impact on someone. It was a wonderful, on-going lesson for our family.

We ended our marble-project with last night's Family Home Evening lesson. We talked about feeling the Spirit and listening to its promptings to know when and how we could continue serving others. Our last act of service was to deliver treats and thank-you notes to neighbors and Ward members who have been of service to us and our Ward-family. With that final act of service, we filled our jar.

So, while we truly HAVE lost our marbles, it was well worth it.

09/11/01

2010-09-11T00:11:00.001-07:00

Flight 93

Heroes who died, just doing what they do... Firefighters, Paramedics, and Police Officers...

United States Pentagon...

Ordinary people, going about their business, and passengers on planes...

Lest we forget...

Please Lord, let us NEVER, EVER forget...

God Bless America
...and keep her free.

Summer's Last Hurrah!!

2010-09-07T14:29:00.001-07:00

We spent the last official weekend of Summer doing some fun things in our local area.

Saturday, we decided to check out "Swiss Days" in Midway, Utah.

We got a late start, so we were hip-deep in people, long lines, and heat.

We've decided that next year, we will NOT be going on Saturday. We'll go a day earlier and earlier in the day to beat the heat and the crowds. Still, it was interesting, and we could definitely see why so many people wanted to attend. Lots of local arts, crafts, and color. I could certainly feel my Swiss-blood stirring. Dad would be SO proud!

Yesterday, we went with Kevin's Young Adult Ward, up Provo Canyon for their monthly "Bishopric Family Home Evening". The other counselor in the Bishopric prepared deep-fried turkeys for dinner! YUM!!

Being big on family traditions, Kevin and I taught them the importance of having the turkey "dance" before cooking it. Definitely makes the bird more tender. (It's a LONG story...haha, but thanks to our dear friend, Karen for THAT tradition!)

Jackie even made a new friend...we decided it looked part giraffe, part leopard, and part sunset. So, we named it a "Gileopard-Sunset Moth". Whatever the name, it was really pretty.

So, with all these fun times, we bid a fond farewell to Summer, and say,

"HELLOOOOO FALL!!!"

Different...

2010-09-01T18:32:00.001-07:00

as night and day but...they're still mine!

What's purple and striped???

2010-08-29T21:42:00.000-07:00

No, not Barney-the-Dinosaur in a zebra suit! But that was a good guess.

Amanda's room!!!

With Marc and Jackie's help with the striping part, it is FINISHED!!!!!!!!!! YAY!

Not bad, if I do say so, myself!

Back to School

2010-08-23T05:49:00.000-07:00

Every year, like so many other people, I make a HUGE fuss over my children on their first day back to school. You know the fuss I mean - new clothes, new shoes, new backpacks, and new school supplies.

This year has been a little different. For one thing, my two girls are going to DIFFERENT schools for the first time. That means they didn't even share the same first day of school because Jackie started last Wednesday. For another thing, I couldn't even BE THERE for Jackie's first day of school this year. I was summoned for Jury duty that day, so Kevin got the honors of taking those back to school pictures, in my place.

Also, today is AMANDA'S first day of High School (another BIG change)and Kevin isn't here (in person) for Amanda's first day of school.

So as you can see, this hasn't been a typical "Back-to-School" for the Whacky Websters, at all!

Fortunately, although Kevin is in Singapore (7000+ Miles away and 14 hours ahead of us); we were able to get together for Family Scriptures and Family Prayer via video and the "Skype internet phone". Wow, the marvels of technology - ain't it grand?!?!?! Just another of Heavenly Father's "tender mercies", for which I am eternally grateful!

Let the new school year begin!!!

*sigh*
It feels like yesterday I was taking these kind of pictures when they started Kindergarten...

The Color...

2010-08-21T21:31:00.000-07:00

Purple!!! Guess what color we're painting Amanda's room????

I'll have pictures of the finished project as soon as possible!

PS: Kev arrived safely in Singapore. This 14 hour time-difference is just WEIRD!!!

He's Leavin' on a Jet-plane...

2010-08-20T07:49:00.000-07:00

...But I DO know when he'll be back again!

For the next two weeks, Kev and his colleagues will be giving training classes in Singapore.

In the meantime, my heart goes with him...

Time to start my pity-party...

Give me a couple of days, and I'll get over my cheap-self...in the meantime...ignore me. haha

Bugged!!!

2010-08-17T10:34:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that our home computer has been hit with a nasty virus...

I'm posting this from the computer at our local library - Thank you, Library People!!!

The home computer is in the "Computer Hospital" getting de-bugged. If you email us and we don't respond, it is NOT because we don't love you; it's because we've been BUGGED!!!

Love you all!

The Whacky Websters
*hopefully the soon-to-be UN-bugged Whacky Websters*

Sometimes the "little-guy" wins...

2010-08-10T21:18:00.000-07:00

Utah's Department of Transportation has been working on a major road project through our area. The construction delays have been a pain, but something we all agreed to live with. The benefits of a parkway allowing easier freeway access seemed well worth the temporary inconvenience.

That is, until reality hit.

In this case, reality was the realization that the intersection from our neighborhood, across this five-lane, 40+mph parkway was NOT going to be regulated with a traffic signal. The powers that make these decisions thought that traffic on our neighborhood access-road didn't warrant a signal. Their idea of adequate was a stop-sign for the traffic crossing the parkway.

To make a long story short, the people who use that street and who would be risking their lives to cross the parkway; spoke up. We banded together and made our opinion heard. We didn't take "NO" for an answer, and made sure that we were listened to. We even took our concerns to the Governor of the State!

In the end, policy for our little part of the world was changed. A traffic signal will be going up as soon as possible.

Commuters, pedestrians, children going to and from school, and people going to and from our Church building, will be able to cross Pioneer Crossing safely.

Thanks to all who spoke up, wrote letters, and made a difference for our community.

Thanks as well to those at UDOT and the Governor's office who
saw the light
and made a better decision!!!

Three cheers for the "little-guy"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Evolution of "THE" haircut...

2010-08-02T23:42:00.000-07:00

The BIG ticket item on Jackie's birthday-wish-list was a new hair cut and style. So, without further explanation or any ado..about the new do...here is the evolution of Jackie's new hair...

Before:

Soaking...'er I mean SOAPING her head:

Hair we go!

Reesha does great work!

Spraying in place:

Et viola!!! The NEW and IMPROVED Whacky-Jackie!

Happy Birthday, Baby!

I wanted children...

2010-07-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

...and after 6 years of trying, we got the first one! We were so happy when we adopted Amanda!!! What a gift and a treasure she's been! Three years later, we started trying again... Infertility treatments didn't work, so we went with adoption again. For two years, Mandy prayed for a baby-sister. NOT a brother, but a sister. I was voting for a boy, but guess who Heavenly Father listened to? NOT me! ...SO along came Jackie...our two-year-old pixie with bright green fairy-eyes.

Now it's almost time for Jackie's 14th Birthday. She won't be here for her birthday, because she's at Girls' Camp with her sister and a few hundred other young women (and their very brave and faithful leaders). So, I'm at home...in my too-quiet house...thinking about wanting my children.

Don't get me wrong, I'm enjoying the break (mostly). But I've been thinking about how I wanted children. Now that I have them, I enjoy them. They drive me nuts, hurt my feelings, worry me 'til my hair turns gray, but I enjoy them.

I love how Amanda tries to see the good in everyone.

I love how Jackie leaps at life with all her heart and soul.

I love seeing life through the unique and wonderful perspective of their eyes.

My children are away at camp...I hope with all my heart that they're having a wonderful time. I'm getting lots done and enjoying my "me-time"; BUT I miss my kids.

I'm glad I wanted children enough to go through everything it took to get them to our family.

I miss my girls!

Gratitude...

2010-07-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

Every July since we moved here to Utah, we've had a "Thanksgiving-in-July" celebration. It's our way of remembering that we can be thankful throughout the year, not just in November. This past Sunday was our "Thanksgiving in July" feast!

Interestingly enough, the lesson I taught my Primary class was on "Gratitude"...go figure. haha

So, all this celebrating got me thinking...what AM I thankful for, anyway? My list could go on and on, and then you'd get bored and quit reading. So, here's the short list...The Gospel, Kevin, my beautiful, funny, sweet, daughters, and family...Those are the top ranking blessings. ...but as my family would tell you, I LOVE flowers - fancy flowers, exotic flowers, plain flowers, simple flowers...you name it, I LOVE them. So, as I sat on my patio, this "Thanksgiving in July" evening, among the beautiful flowers I have tenderly planted, loved and nurtured; I gave thanks for flowers.

Thanks to Heavenly Father for all the wonderful things in my life!

...including flowers.

Independence Day and Patriotism...

2010-07-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

I was going write a post in my own words about my feelings for our Great Nation. However, Kevin sent me this letter in an email and it changed my mind. So, in honor of our Independence Day celebrations and to honor a noble veteran who had the courage to speak his mind, here is my 4th of July tribute. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you, Mr. Estes...you said a mouthful!

This venerable and much honored WW II vet is well known in Hawaii for his seventy-plus years of service to patriotic organizations and causes all over the country. A humble man without a political bone in his body, he has never spoken out before about a government official, until now. He dictated this letter to a friend, signed it and mailed it to the president.

Dear President Obama,

My name is Harold Estes, approaching 95 on December 13 of this year. People meeting me for the first time don't believe my age because I remain wrinkle free and pretty much mentally alert.

I enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1934 and served proudly before, during and after WW II retiring as a Master Chief Bos'n Mate. Now I live in a "rest home" located on the western end of Pearl Harbor , allowing me to keep alive the memories of 23 years of service to my country.

One of the benefits of my age, perhaps the only one, is to speak my mind, blunt and direct even to the head man.

So here goes.

I am amazed, angry and determined not to see my country die before I do, but you seem hell bent not to grant me that wish.

I can't figure out what country you are the president of.

You fly around the world telling our friends and enemies despicable lies like:

" We're no longer a Christian nation"

" America is arrogant" - (Your wife even

announced to the world," America is mean-

spirited. " Please tell her to try preaching

that nonsense to 23 generations of our

war dead buried all over the globe who

died for no other reason than to free a

whole lot of strangers from tyranny and

hopelessness.)

I'd say shame on the both of you, but I don't think you like America, nor do I see an ounce of gratefulness in anything you do, for the obvious gifts this country has given you. To be without shame or gratefulness is a dangerous thing for a man sitting in the White House.

After 9/11 you said," America hasn't lived up to her ideals."

Which ones did you mean? Was it the notion of personal liberty that 11,000 farmers and shopkeepers died for to win independence from the British? Or maybe the ideal that no man should be a slave to another man, that 500,000 men died for in the Civil War? I hope you didn't mean the ideal 470,000 fathers, brothers, husbands, and a lot of fellas I knew personally died for in WWII, because we felt real strongly about not letting any nation push us around, because we stand for freedom.

I don't think you mean the ideal that says equality is better than discrimination. You know the one that a whole lot of white people understood when they helped to get you elected.

Take a little advice from a very old geezer, young man.

Shape up and start acting like an American. If you don't, I'll do what I can to see you get shipped out of that fancy rental on Pennsylvania Avenue . You were elected to lead not to bow, apologize and kiss the hands of murderers and corrupt leaders who still treat their people like slaves.

And just who do you think you are telling the American people not to jump to conclusions and condemn that Muslim major who killed 13 of his fellow soldiers and wounded dozens more. You mean you don't want us to do what you did when that white cop used force to subdue that black college professor in Massachusetts , who was putting up a fight? You don't mind offending the police calling them stupid but you don't want us to offend Muslim fanatics by calling them what they are, terrorists.

One more thing. I realize you never served in the military and never had to defend your country with your life, but you're the Commander-in-Chief now, son. Do your job. When your battle-hardened field General asks you for 40,000 more troops to complete the mission, give them to him. But if you're not in this fight to win, then get out. The life of one American soldier is not worth the best political strategy you're thinking of.

You could be our greatest president because you face the greatest challenge ever presented to any president.

You're not going to restore American greatness by bringing back our bloated economy. That's not our greatest threat. Losing the heart and soul of who we are as Americans is our big fight now.

And I sure as hell don't want to think my president is the enemy in this final battle...

Sincerely,

Harold B. Estes

Snopes confirms as true:

http://www.snopes.com/politics/soapbox/haroldestes.asp

Too funny

2010-07-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

I got this link from a friend on Facebook. What a riot! Let's hear it for "All the Wrinkled Ladies"!!!
www.boredville.com/32146/All-The-Wrinkled-Ladies

Tired...

2010-06-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

Up at 3:30 (Oregon time)... FOURTEEN HOURS of steady driving in a tightly packed car...two kids who tried REALLY hard to be patient (and made it 'til hour 12 & 1/2)...one tired-nerve-frazzled hubby...one fully unloaded car...two unpacked suitcases...and one prepared-lesson for Primary, tomorrow.... MIX it all together and you have...

one tired me...
G'night!

It's early, but...

2010-06-18T00:22:00.000-07:00

I won't be near a computer for Father's Day, so here it is.

I had a wonderful Daddy. He's been gone for 7 years, now. I miss him everyday. However, the lessons he taught me, and the love I felt from him stay with me everyday, too. It helps.

Now, I teach my children the things he taught me, and somehow it helps keep him close to all of us.

Dad taught us the value of hard work - if you're going to do a job, do it right the first time. (or he'd make you do it again and again and again! haha)

He taught the importance of integrity. Say what you mean and mean what you say. If you say you'll do something, do it. Honesty is ALWAYS the best policy, and "A man's (or woman's) word is his bond".

Dad taught me to love the Lord and live a good life. He taught me to love my country. He taught me to stand my ground by standing up for what was right and good. (Caline and Marc, feel free to jump in and add some stuff; I'm sure I missed a few)

Most of all, he gave me a strong foundation on which to build my life.

In time, I was blessed to marry a man who exemplified so many of the wonderful qualities my dad had. Now my daughters have a Daddy who teaches them all the great lessons I received from my beloved Daddy.

So, in honor of this Sunday's upcoming Father's Day... I have a wish for all the Daddies out there, including mine in Heaven and my children's ... All of you who keep working hard to take care of your family, to teach them valuable lessons, who play and have fun, and work and love and support those who love you so much...

I wish for you to know how loved you are, and for you to be celebrated on this special day that was set aside just for you. Kick back, relax, and let yourselves be spoiled rotten by your families. And have a VERY Happy Father's Day!!!!!!