Merry Christmas to Everyone!!!!

We have spent time visitng with Aunt Connie and making lots of quilts. I have pictured only one of about eight! We have had so many friends and family come by to enjoy the holiday with.

We were able to make 63 bags for the homeless this year and we had a lot of help and a lot of fun making them. We could have made 1000 and it still would not have been enought but we get such joy out of helping the people who need it so badly. Next year we are going to try for 100 bags!

Our family all comes home Christmas Eve and we open gifts between each other. Then Christmas morning we have Santa. Christmas Day we spent at Heidi and Larry's and had a wonderful turkey and ham dinner with all the sides. It was wonderful. That's what it is all about: family, friends, sharing, giving, loving....

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. We love you all.

Sorry I haven't written in quite some time but we have been so busy enjoying Aunt Connie that there has hardly been time to write. We have restored two quilts and have made five new ones! We still have plenty to go but Aunt Connie will be here until Easter so have no doubt we will get them finished. We went through one sewing machine but Auntie bought Judy and I a new one for our Christmas present this year. Wow, we are so excited and grateful.

Speaking of grandchildren~my sister, Debra, is going to be a grandmother again. Her son Joey and his wife are expecting another baby. We are all hoping for a girl but, as you know, we think boys are great!!!! If a girl, they want to incorporate my mother's name as the baby's middle name. I suggested Bella Faye but they are leaning toward Anna Faye which is very nice.

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving, we did! I also hope you all have a ver Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This, in case I am slow in writing again.

Saturday, we got together with Heidi and Larry and went down to Old Town for lunch. We had Mexican food at Guadalajara's and it was delicious again!! Next we went down to the wharf and walked around the "Star of India" and just enjoyed the sea air and people watching. After all the good sea air, we were ready for dessert and went to Extraordinary Desserts for a wonderful ending to our day.

Coda, Heidi and Larry's chocolate lab had to go to the hospital for emergency surgery on Sunday. Her stomach had flipped and she had an intestinal blockage. She came home from the hospital Tuesday night and I nursed her all day Wednesday. I am happy to report she is doing fantastic. She's fantastic and it is amazing how fast our wonderful dogs can recover from major surgery as compared to ourselves.

Tuesday night Katie' brought Judy and I some amazing chocolate truffles that she made. And when I say that they were delicious, that is an understatement!! She is very considerate and we appreciate her thinking of us. Judy is going to try to find out how to make them. Yummy.... Thanks, Katie'!

Where's the RAIN and Flu Shots

Well, as usual, the weather people are wrong--no rain--at least for Spring Valley. But the day was not a loss, Judy, Michael, and I went and got our flu shots. They were not giving out the H1N1 shots so don't know if and when they'll be given out. Heard on the news today that a five year old girl died of the swine flu today. I think I'll get the shot for my family, if it is made available.

Rain????

Weather forecasters are saying we are going to get some rain tonight and tomorrow. I hope they are right, we certainly need the water.

Fun Weekend

It feels strange to be writing again. It's been awhile. With everyone not feeling up to par, I just didn't have much to write about. But, everyone is well again and I'm so thankful for that.

Judy had another three day weekend and it was so nice having so much time together. We went out Friday and just fooled around. Went to Sonic and had our usual dollar menu lunch, which is perfect. Saturday, Heidi called and wanted to go on a girl's shopping trip. What fun we had. Heidi got some beautiful clothes and also treated Judy and I. Next, she planned lunch at a French Bistro and the food was wonderful. We also went to Big Lots to start buying the supplies for our Christmas bags we make up at Christmas to give to the Homeless. It's so gratifying but does take a lot of time, money and effort. We have friends that donate and help assemble and distribute. We look forward to doing this every year that we are able to. Any-
way, after all the shopping and lunch, we returned to Heidi and Larry's and to my surprise!!!my son, Larry, wants to take me for my postponed birthday celebration for dinner and banana splits!!! What a day!!! What a family!!! I am blessed...

Sunday, since I am still prone to anxiety and panic attacks around a lot of people, we did not attend Church. It was Stake Conference and I knew there would be a lot of people. Maybe someday it won't bother me to be in those circumstances. Judy made banana bread, oatmeal cookies and we had a late dinner of bar-be-cued chicken and fried potatoes (which were so good because we never have them anymore)! Watched a little television and went to bed.

Thursday

Judy, Taylor, Ashley and I are suppose to go to the temple tonight. Yet, Taylor and I are still fighting head colds. I'm up to it and I think Taylor will be, too.

Termites, bathroom sink plugged up, kitchen faucet replaced and now kitchen sink plugged up--what next????? Just waiting for the plumber to call. We are going to be on first name basis. If anyone needs a good plumber, strictly for unplugging drains, I know the BEST! Just let me know and I'll tell you.

Talked to Auntie last night and they are leaving on the 2nd of November for sure. They should be here by the 5th or 6th. We're so excited, we just can't hide it!!!

Judy's cough is finally going away. She has had a heck of a time with it. Michael went back to school today. So I'm really thankful that they are feeling better.

Wednesday

Sorry, haven't been posting lately. We've all had coughs, sore throats, ear infections, and sinusitis. It goes from one of us to the other and back again but, I believe we are all starting to feel better.

Happy Birthday "shout outs" to Hayley and Ben. Their birthdays were yesterday and although I didn't speak to them, I thought of them. I simply can't believe how fast time is going by. Another year almost gone.

Sunday, Heidi and I went up and visited Michael. He was doing pretty good. We stayed almost the usual amount of time- 40 minutes-after a two hour drive up and a two hour return trip home. Heidi and I enjoyed ourselves and talked about our road trip several years ago, played games and just enjoyed being with each other. Judy was still coughing so she stayed home and went to church. Melissa, the boys mother, has been going to church with us. I know the boys like this. I hope she continues to go with us.

Yesterday, Debra and Joe stopped in for a visit. They were only here for a couple of hours but it was so nice visiting with them. I did worry about them being around all our germs but they didn't seem to be worried.

Every year I do Dr. Mebust's Christmas cards. I'm starting them early this year because I want to be done when Aunt Connie gets here. She called and said Adam is trying to clear it with his commanding officer for departure around the 2nd of November. We are all so excited and can hardly wait to get our arms around our dear aunt.

Roxanne is still planning on moving to Idaho. She's going up around Boise where her sister, my other precious cousins, Rhonda and Darwin, live. I am going to miss her like crazy but I think she will be happy in Idaho...at least I hope that she will be. She will be closer to more of her immediate family.

Judy and I have been working on jewelry for gift giving. Judy is really good at it. I get shaky sometimes but then Judy takes over for me. We hope to do some "Stampin" too. I really love making cards.

I still haven't heard anything about my knee surgeries. I do know the surgeon had a heart attack and is back at work but he had to catch up (which he is close to doing) so it shouldn't be much longer. Hopefully, we'll get our flu shots soon. They suggest waiting until all our other symptoms are gone. Hopefully, that will be soon.

Happy Birthday to ME!

Today I am 59 years old...WOW, as "Bob" would say. I'm amazed at how fast time has gone by. I started the day off with calls from all my loved ones: Taylor, Little Michael, Jamie, Heidi, Judy, Aunt Connie and Michelle, Debra, Big Michael and Roxanne. Then two "angels" came to the door (Sister Desingano and Sister Joy Prescott) and they sang Happy Birthday to me too! Voices of angels from them and all my family that sang to me. They also brought me delicious cookies and banana bread. Yum! So far, a great start to my day. I am a lucky woman. It's not so bad- looking forward to 60! I thought I was going to have a hard time with that but I'm good!

Cousin Ben

Our cousin, Benjamin (Ben) Jones, was in town over the weekend. He was here with his peers and Professor from BYU presenting an exhibit on subjects concerning primates (because I can't remember the correct terminology). We were fortunate enough to be able to attend the presentation which was held at the Bahia Resort and really learned a lot and enjoyed ourselves tremendously. We don't get to be with Ben a lot so it is a real blessing when the opportunity comes. He is studying to be an E.R. doctor. We met his friends, William and Brad and also had the pleasure of meeting his esteemed Professor. The presentation was one of many and was judged. Winners will be announced later and presentation published.

After we left the Bahia, Heidi, Judy, Ben, Michael and I went to the Mona Lisa for pizza. It's the best pizza in San Diego!! We returned home and, of course, stayed up late -- too late-- visiting. We didn't wake up in time for church! When we did all get up, Ben and Michael had a jam session. Ben played guitar and sang and Michael did "fake" drums. Luke chimed in to the tones of the harmonica. It was good. Ben has a beautiful voice. I could listen to him all day. Later we went to Heidi's and Larry's house to visit and swim. Larry and the boys had gone to Barona to race and didn't get home until late afternoon. They had gone for a long weekend before we even knew that Ben was going to be here. We spent the entire day. We held our own Olympics. Judy, Heidi and I were the judges. The three: Ben, Taylor and Michael kind of balanced out on the amount of gold, silver and bronze medals. We did have to eliminate Michael for two rounds for poor sportsmanship but he bounced right back and was the better for it. Heidi and I went to Taco Bell and she bought "everything on the menu"! It was great...Little Larry talked cars with Ben and showed him his dragster even strapping him in to show him what it feels like to be in the car. I think Ben enjoyed it as much as I know Larry did. Of course, Chris and Michael tried to annoy them but it didn't work. We left Heidi's and stopped at Sonic where Ben treated us to ice cream. After returning home, more visiting but not as late because we knew Ben had to leave early and the boys had to go to school and Judy to work. Brother and Sister Prescott, Sr. came by and Bro. Prescott and Ben gave Judy a Healing Blessing. She still has a horrible cough. The Prescott's are just like family and Ben enjoyed getting to meet and visit with them, too.

Ben has left and already I miss him. He is a special human being and a great cousin. He is so much the product of his father and mother, Blaine and Claudia. Blaine is my uncle but we are very close in age and grew up together so we are more like a brother and sister and I love him and admire him so much. Claudia is a fantastic mother and a great wife and I admire her as well. They have a heck of great son!!!

Wednesday

YIKES!!!!We have termites!!!!! Thank goodness, we don't need to have the house tented, at this point, but the exterminator will he here tomorrow to do the spot extermination. If nothing else, it will buy us some time to save for the tenting. I don't have anything personal against termites, but they have to DIE!!!!! They chose the wrong house for dinner.

Michael has been waiting all week for his computer to come. It was delivered today while he was at school. I put it up and waited for Jamie, Michael and Judy to get home to give it to him. Yesterday, he sat out on the car and waited for the Fed Ex man to come for at least an hour. Anyway, after he got home, he went to his room to do is homework, as he always does, the rest of us set the box outside the door and then knocked on the door and hollered at Michael to answere the door. He came running to the door and, of course, nobody was there, so we told him sometimes Fed Ex and UPS will just set boxes outside the door. He opened the door and to his surprise there was a box!!! Well, he knew it was his and he was delighted. Didn't see him or hear from him for most of the night.

September 15, 2009

This day, yesterday, was the fourth anniversary of our dear Mother's going to heaven. I didn't write yesterday as I was filled with all the memories I could come up with in my little head. However, my heart is large and there I found many memories that makes me wonder how it's possible that one large heart can hold so much love for my dear mother and not burst from from that love.

Our mother was beautiful inside and outside. She was kind, giving, compassionate, understanding, the best wife to her husband and a mother that always gave unconditional love. She nurtured us when we were babes and she nurtured us when we had babes, and again when our babes had their babes. She was always there. I wondered how life could possibly go on without her, I know it does, because it has. I think the teachings, the example, the love that she taught us by example is what still keeps us going. My mother was one of my rocks. She kept me from losing everything--and I mean everything. Her love, her calmness, her warmth--I still ache to feel her hands rub my hair back from my face or her hand holding my hand or just to hear her reassure me, "It's going to be okay, honey." Mom didn't live long enough to know that what she predicted would come true, but it did. Everything is okay, Mom, and thanks to you I am here to write this for you. I love you with all of my heart and soul and I know that one day we will all be together again and that will be wonderful day. Thank you for being our Mother. You were the best! You are a hard act to follow!

Happy Birthday, Katie' Day!!!!!

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Katie',
Happy Birthday to you.....and many more!

Thursday

Nice day...kids are liking school.
Had a cold sandwich supper tonight, tasted good for a change. Larry dropped by after work for a few minutes and it was nice visiting with him, as usual.

Wednesday

Judy got home from work early and she was feeling a little better. We went and bought a few groceries. After dinner we got ready to go to the Scouts Court of Honor. To my surprise, Michael conducted the ceremony and he did a wonderful job!! We were all very proud of him. The boys had asked their mother to attend and she did so that was good, too. Afterwards, we came home and watched America's Got Talent and then went to bed. Taylor is going to Seminary so he has to get up even earlier. I like to get up with him but he actually had to wake me up today.

I'd just like to say that I think Sister Rigging's new Bangs look fantastic on her. She looks so young....maybe we should all cut us some bangs!

My plants have just about had it, as evidenced in the photo above. Haven't decided whether to try again or not.

Back to School

What a great morning!!!! The boys seemed eager to get back to school and the morning went off without a hitch. Now, lets hope the rest of the day goes as well.

Sister Desingano and Sister Joy Prescott came by for a visit this morning. It was wonderful spending time with them. They are both such sweet sisters and I could have spent the entire day with them!!!

The boys all got home from school and it was a SUCCESS! They were all happy. Taylor is talking about starting Seminary tomorrow. I hope he is serious. We had a pleasant evening together. Had hot dogs and the rest of Judy's delicious potato salad and baked beans for dinner. An easy dinner for an easy day. Judy is still coughing, I wish she'd go to the doctor. Jamie's back is still really bad, too. He's going to have to take his car in to have the brakes done from now on; his back just can't handle it. Talked to Michael and he is happy that he is back on his job. Heidi, Larry, and the boys had a good day. Cody was really eager to start school until he got to the door then he goat a little nervous. As soon as he saw one of his friends, everything was okay.

The bugs have pretty much had a feast on my veggies--poor things (plants not the darn bugs). I'm not sure if I'm cut out to garden.

Aunt Connie is well. She is still quilting up a storm!

Happy Labor Day!!!

We bar-be-qued hambergers. Judy made potato salad and we had baked beans. Judy also made cookies and the much requested banana bread. I worked on some crafts and Judy worked on her jewelry making. She is so good at that, too.

Jamie's back is still really painful. He did come out and have dinner with us though. Taylor is getting ready to go back to school and Michael, I think, would just rather not think about it.

Our friends, The Propsners, are having some sad times right now and I just want them to know that we love them and our hearts and prayers are with them, always. I talked to Jimmie today and invited them for dinner. Had hoped they'd be able to make it but turned out otherwise. It was a last minute invitation and she did not commit but we sure missed having them.

Sunday

Just another easy day...Heidi, Larry and Little Larry came over and we visited for awhile. Judy still not feeling up to par. She did make it to church for sacrament.

Chris and I had fun fooling around and decided to wear each other's earrings. His look better on him and mine look better on me but it was fun. Chris is a great kid and a wonderful grandson, we have a lot of fun together!

Saturday

Today we started the day off with a little shopping...mainly, cough syrup for Judy. Jamie went to Heidi's to do his brakes, Taylor went to a birthday party and Michael went bowling with Aunt Heidi and Uncle Larry and the family.

I caught up on my phone calls. Some good and some not so good. But I am caught up anyway and will pray for the best for everyone. Other than that just watched television and had some dinner. Judy did work on some of her jewelry projects (including fixing one of my broken bracelets). I am so blessed to have such a devoted sister. I love her very much.

Friday (Yesterday)

Today, Heidi and Chris came over and we had a lot of fun. Heidi helped me arrange my desk and that was a big help. Later we went to Walmart to return the boys new bikes and get them new ones. Too many mechanical defects just to have Walmart fix them and return them to us. They were only one and two weeks old. Both boys had accidents on them because of mechanical failure. The bike assember at Walmart came out and adjusted everything on both the new bikes, which they didn't do the first time. I bought the warranties, so nobody could touch the bikes except Walmart without invalidating the warranties. Anyway, the man was terrific and did a great job adjusting the bikes.

After we got home, Heidi and I went and got pizzas and we ate and watched the old version of "The Time Machine" with Rod Taylor. He was so handsome in his day. He was great in "The Birds" too. Afterwards I had a sweet tooth and Jamie and Cody went and bought donuts. Boy did they ever buy donuts! They came home with two big boxes!!! They were so good.

I forgot that during the morning, I did get the boys merit badges on their sash. I glued them first thinking it will make it easier to sew them on. Be nice if the glue holds and don't need to sew them but better not take a chance.

Haven't seen Mr. Charlie, II. Judy named the alligator in our patio area. Just as well because he didn't eat the bugs that killed my cherry tomato plant...the other plants are hanging in there but still fighting...

Judy is still not feeling well. I do believe she should see a doctor as she might need an antibiotic but she doesn't think so.

Thursday

Well, I had a real surprise today. I went out to spray my veggies and as I came into the patio, I spotted a huge lizard- alligator something that I don't want on my patio anyway. He is in the picture. Cody and Michael tried to catch him but he is a leaping lizard and that even surprised them. Cody just came in and said, "It's okay, Gramma, he's in the wall." Oh, that's good--that means he is still on the patio and so now I have to keep the door shut so he doesn't "leap"right into the house.

I also lost my cherry tomato plant. I feel so bad but will go and get another and try again. I think I babied it to death--literally.

Wednesday

Judy is feeling better ( a little). I made ham, scalloped potatoes and veggies for dinner. Of course the kids would rather have a pizza pocket! Not much news today.

Something is eating my veggie plants. My Aunt Connie told me to mix up some Dawn liquid in some water and spray them. The bugs don't like the soap and the soap won't hurt the plants. Supposedly, Auntie says it works really well on roses, too. So I keep my bottle out there and am going to spray them everyday. Whatever is eating them especially likes the pepper plants! I don't like those darn bugs!

Tuesday

Jamie and I went to UPS store and mailed Judy's computer off. I should say Little Mike's computer, now. Then we went to Albertson's and did some shopping. Didn't really do a whole lot today... talked to Aunt Connie and Katie'.

Jamie bought pizza for dinner so that was easy, too.

Monday

This morning was Sister Afton Todd's funeral. She was a beautiful, wonderful, and kind woman. She was my first visiting teacher when I came back to CA from Boston. She had the sweetest smile and the kindest manner but you could tell she believed and wanted to teach you everything she knew. I will never forget her. I didn't have the privilege of meeting her husband, Brother Todd, until after we returned to church a few years ago. Time goes by so fast, I can't remember but it is, indeed, a privilege to know Brother Todd and his dear wife. They have a wonderful family and the funeral was very nice. I rode with Sister Desingano since Judy had to work and since Judy had to work, there is nobody I'd rather go with. She is such a sweet Sister.

When I got home I called Aunt Connie. Everything is fine in Alabama. Talked to Uncle Ted and Aunt Sandra the other day also Blaine and Claudia and everything is good in Idaho. I need to call Jery and Teddy and my friend, Karen. I think I will call Kay, too. We didn't get to talk too long on Saturday with everything going on with Heidi and Larry's dogs and horse.

I read my emails and was disturbed to get an upsetting email from my dear Jimmie Carolyn. She is having a hard time right now and we all need to pray for her. I called her and we talked for quite awhile. I hope she comes over tonight. I always love being with her and I think she needs to get out of the house since her husband, Larry, is working tonight.

The day is not as hot as it has been but strange in a way. Fires...I hope the Lord keeps the fire away from San Bernadino and my son, Michael and San Jacinto area where my sister, Debra and Joe live. Last I heard it was off the 215 but where I didn't hear.

Judy has had a raspy voice and sounds like she is coming down with something. She says it is from the air conditioning and fans blowing, etc. but I wish she'd go to the doctor and get it checked before it gets worse. She works so hard and it would be easy for her to get run-down. I love her very much and worry about her.

Cody went back to his mother's today, the little rascal. Taylor has left for his service call at church (he's always busy--and he loves it and so do I) and Michael is in his room playing a video game. Jamie is watching television in his room and all is well. Time to start dinner.

Sunday

We went to church. Made an easy lunch consisting of hot dogs, cold salads and chips. Then we watched the movie, "The Soloist." It was pretty good. Movies about Schzophrenia are not my favorite, however. Since we live with it, I don't particularly care to watch it but I didn't know that was what the movie was about when we bought it. I guess it does help the public know an itsy bitsy bit about the disorder and the torment the person affected goes through and the family of the the person affected. I always say our family suffers from schizophrenia rather than just my son suffers from it. My son is doing very well on his meds. He is homesick and we miss him terribly and look forward to the day that he can come home. We all love him with all of our hearts.

Saturday

Hot summer Saturday...started the day off watching Senator Kennedy's funeral on television. In the afternoon Judy and I prepared a meal for Brother Todd and took it over to his house. He wasn't there but his son was. We'll see him at church tomorrow. Taylor was gone all day. Jamie, Dawn and the rest of the kids went to Outback for dinner. Judy and I went out to pick up some bubble wrap from Kay so she can mail her first notebook in for repair. We decided to give it to Little Michael and I forgot to mention that she bought another one last night.
Taylor and Seth needed a ride to the church dance and we took them over. Sister Riggins is going to pick them up.

Heidi and Larry have had a lot of worries with their pets. The dogs are all losing weight except for Abbey, the English bulldog, and Billy the horse is not well. They had the dogs at the vet today and the vet to the house tonight to check Billy. They sure have had their share of problems lately. I hope everything works out for them--I know it will. We were suppose to have dinner together today and spend the day together but because of all the problems we have had to postpone to another day.

Talked to Aunt Connie and she had a good day. Adam and Michelle took her for a ride to the coast and they ate all kinds of bar-b-que pork. Sounds like she is having a wonderful time with Michelle and her family. She didn't say if it was still raining. As I said earlier, it is hot again today --thank goodness for air conditioners!

I still have my glasses and they seem to help me a lot so I guess the optometrist knew what she was doing. They are all great over at Kaiser Bonita. I still have no date for my knees surgeries. Soon, I hope. Don't remember if I wrote the results of my MRI or not. I'll risk it. Dr. said that I have two torn tendons in my left knee which he can fix arthrascopically at the same time he as he replaces my right knee. Actually, he will do the left first to lesson the risk of infection to the knee transplant. I'm anxious to get to be more active--ride bikes, play badminton--I use to be really good at tennis but that was about 40 years ago!!!!!! How about bowling, anyone?

Friday

First thing I did today was lock in the cool morning air and so far I have not had to put the air conditioning on. The new double paned windows and all the insulation we have had installed is really helping. We knew it helped during the winter but this is the first summer we have tried it out,--no, no, it is the second...I was in the hospital during the hot, hot spell last year and it was quite nice after I was finally able to come home. I did, however, wash the floor fans and what a difference they make when they are clean!!!! I should clean them more often. I'm off to do ceiling fans, now. Little Mike planted the idea when he cleaned his last night.

Speaking of planting...my plants are all doing well. They are growing but nothing on them yet. I suppost I am wanting instant gratification and it just isn't going to happen!!!

Jamie took the boys swimming yesterday and I am sure he'll probably take them again today. I don't know if he'll be going to his sister's house or to the YMCA. Hopefully, not the beach, they always come home sunburned! Jamie and the boys just left and they are going to the YMCA.

Roxanne just came by for a visit. It is really wonderful seeing her. I hope she knows how much we all love her. We had a nice visit.

When Judy gets off work we are going to Kaiser to pick up my new glassses. Gee, I can hardly wait, duh....I wonder how long it will be before I lose or break these?

Thursday

Well, it certainly was a hot day yesterday. We even had to put on the airconditioning. Didn't do much even went to Sombrero's for mexican food for dinner. Jamie brought home lots and lots of ice cream--we all like different flavors.

Judy's notebook is on the blink and she feels really bad about it. She has to send it to Texas. I want her to just go get a new one and we can always figure out what to do with that one (Little Mike?) Anyway, I know she misses it as I know how much I would miss mine. She had even started journaling on hers. Maybe she'll think about getting another one.

I talked to my sister, Debra, yesterday and she and Joe are doing well. I also talked to Aunt Connie and they all seem to be alright back in Alabama. It's still raining. Apparently, it rains off and on everyday. Sun could be shining one minute and raining the next. It's that way in Idaho sometimes, too. Usually, not during July and August-really the only two summer months they have. It has snowed in September in Idaho. The year I was born, 1950, my Mom said it snowed.

Wednesday

Judy and I got our new telephones today and now we just have to figure out how to use them! On top of that Judy has had a problem with her computer but I think we are getting it down.

No real news today...nothing really worth noting.

Tuesday

Hot today! At least it seems hot to me. Talked to Wally and Aunt Connie. They are both well. Wally just had a birthday (the old lady!) She's a month and a day older than me. I really miss her since she moved to Texas but am happy she got out of here when she did and is so happy in Texas. She has her Mom and daughter and two grandchildren there.

The garden or "pot garden" as opposed to ground garden is still going strong. It's gratifying to watch them grow. Plan on starting some new pots of tomatoes soon.

Still waiting for the surgery date on my knees. I do know that it will be a total knee replacement on the right knee and arthrascopic on the left. I have two torn tendons in that knee and the surgeon can fix that without a replacement. Things are looking better already. I'll just be glad to get it over with and get on with everything. I'm looking forward to going on a bike ride with the boys! Maybe bowl, or golf or who knows??? I've never done either. I'd like to be on the mend before Aunt Connie gets here. Or rather --mended!

Monday

The usual household chores kept me occupied during the day until Judy got home. Then we went to Cox Cable to get the HD box for our new television. Judy and I then proceded to do the self installation. We completed that mission successfully and with only one argument!!! We really like out new televison.

Taylor went out looking for a part-time job. He had to Mt. Miguel to get a work permit. Michael rode his new bike and went with him. Cody is here for a few days and it is always fun to have him here with us.

I talked to Uncle Ted and Sandra. Uncle Ted is feeling much better. Talked to Blaine and he sounded good as well. Later, Aunt Connie called me back and she was doing really great--getting ready to make a batch of fudge. We talked about the Christmas plans the family is making and we are so hoping that she will be here with us by then. I know it depends on when Adam can get off to bring her here.

Big Michael has not been feeling well but sounded better last night. Heidi, Larry and the boys are well and Jamie got a call to go have more lab work done as he has a high white count. Poor guy --always something. He still can't use his arm for another five weeks. I wonder how it keeps from freezing up. Gotto go and work on grocery list for the menus for the week and call my sister, Debra.

Sunday

We all got up and went to church. The boys were so excited because their mother, Melissa, went with us. She was so proud of them and still stunned at how big they are--I know because she teared up through most of sacrament. I believe she felt comfortable though. She use to go to our church and her grandmother is an inactive member.

After church, we continued to clean up from yesterday. We had to find places for a lot of different things that was in the entertainment center that doesn't fit in the new one. We got that done and both Judy and I was shocked when it was finally done.

Judy made a wonderful dinner and chocolate cake with boiled white fluffy icing (my favorite). I'm thinking about having another piece. We are all still tired tonight.

Saturday

Well, our television finally did bite the dust so we went out to get a new one. We then had to get a stand to put it on because it wouldn't fit in the entertainment center. My dear son, Larry, dropped everything and came to the store and with my grandson, Chris, and helped Judy and I pick out everything. Then drove it home in their truck and spent the rest of the day putting everything together! Heidi followed and we had a great day. Larry and the boys worked, as I said, Judy made a wonderful dinner and we all enjoyed the day and the excitement of the new television. We are very lucky to be able to count on Larry to help us with a lot of the things we can't do. Thank you, Larry and Chris, Taylor and Michael! We put the old entertainment center out on the sidewalk with the television and it was gone in 10 minutes!!!! We were going to take it to the D.I. box but it never made it. I'm glad somebody got it who wanted it and can use it.

The boys were tired after staying up late the night before with their friend, Seth, and having to get up early to go wakeboarding so they were asleep early. Good day!

Cody ~ 2009

As you can all see, my youngest grandson, Cody, is really growing. He is so sweet and so smart. He has a great sense of humor and loves being with us especially his dad and brothers, Taylor and Michael. Not to mention how handsome he is, he gets that from his grandmother. Ha-ha.

Made a good pot roast for dinner tonight. Thanks to my sister, Debra, who advised me. We all enjoyed dinner, tonight.

Seth is spending the night with the boys. They'll probably stay up all night and Taylor and Seth have to be up at 5:00 a.m. to be at church by 5:30 to go water skiing with Scouts. Michael says they'll be fine because they'll be running on adrenaline.

Jamie went back to the doctor today over his shoulder and found out he has now lost 50 pounds!!!! Wow, if only I could do that, I'd be happy. He still can't use his shoulder for another six weeks. Heidi called and they were all fine except the dogs who were waiting for Dad to get home with the dog food. Michael is good--happy to be starting up his job again in two weeks. Judy is suffering a bit of inner ear problems being a little off balance. She had a sore throat yesterday. Tried to get her to go to urgent care but she said it wasn't that bad. Hopefully, she will feel better tomorrow since it is the weekend and she is home.

Thursday

Today I was saddened to hear about dear Sister Todd's passing. My heart goes out to Brother
Todd and all of their family. Afton was my first visiting teacher when I came back to San Diego from Boston. She was always so kind and had such a beautiful smile and manner about her. I will miss her, too.

Melissa came for her scheduled visit with Taylor and Michael and it went very well. The boys even asked her to go to church with us Sunday and she heartily said, "yes!" They boys want her to see what they do and how they look all dressed up in their suits.

Cox cable came and worked on the television. The problem is the television but he was able to put some kind of nut or bolt on the back of the tv and so far it has helped. The repairman wasn't sure how long it would work but it is working now.

I threw in some crunchy fish sticks and potato tots for dinner. Easy and even I can't ruin that! It's been kind of a lazy day. I did talk to Aunt Connie and Michelle first thing this morning and that was fun. I was just getting ready to call Debra when she called me...the sister thing, I think. We had a nice conversation, too.

Tuesday Special

On the menu today was cabbage rolls. They turned out a lot better than my cake yesterday! At least they looked more appetizing. My day started early. I woke up at 2:00 a.m. and couldn't go back to sleep. It was not a waste of time, however, as I was able to finish my book Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth. It was almost 1000 pages and kept me interested. I did finish it and that says a lot. I'd give it *** out of ****. I guess my snooze during my MRI and going to bed early gave my body enough sleep for I haven't lagged today.

Judy worked late today and came home really tired. We started to watch home movies but our television in the family room is going out and it was just too frustrating to watch it. We could go into the living room but we are so accustomed to sitting in the family room.

I was happy to read a reply email from my "Sweetie Pie," and you know who you are, and that you read my blog. My Jimmie Carolyn. Hi. Hi, Larry, J.J., and Adam. Hope you are all doing well.

OOPS!!!!!!

As you can see, my Pineapple Unside-down Cake was a flop! BUT, I know what I did wrong.... I didn't cook it long enough, or possibly use a high enough temp and I didn't let it cool enough. Anyway, it looks like a mess, but it taste yummy! I'm not giving up.

Monday

I started the day off with Judy going back to work...I miss her already. I didn't dwell on that too long because I had an eye appointment at 8:55. My eyes are 20-20 except for close up vision. I could just keep using dept store glasses but I have an astigmatism in one of my eyes and hopefully this prescription lens will make my close-up vision clearer. I should have my glasses in two weeks. Now, I have to be careful. I am well known for breaking and losing glasses. I can't be so careless with prescription glasses. When I got home I tried calling Aunt Connie again. We have had a lot of trouble getting calls through to Michelle's. They are having a lot of rain now -- maybe that is the reason. Tried calling again and got through this time.

I made Jenn Hurdsman's recipe for Dutch oven Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. It's in the oven now (not on a campfire) so I hope it still turns out. It sure smells good. Well, as you can see up above, it did not turn out as hoped but as I said, it does taste good.

I went over to the hospital and got my MRI done. Now, it's just waiting for the surgery date. Hope it is soon. Now that I have made up my mind, I want to get going and be 100% again.

Happy Birthday, Michael!!!!

Today, is my son, Michael's, birthday. He is 38 years old but he is and always will be my baby. We had brunch together and had a wonderful visit. He looks great. He is very handsome. After our visit, Judy, Heidi and I went to Debra and Joe's house in San Jacinto and they took us out to lunch at a wonderful Mexican restaurant. I had the carne asada plate and it was delicious. Judy had a taco salad, Heidi also had the taco salad, Debra had fish taco's and Joe had the carne asada, too. It was all so good. We went back to their home and had carrot cake that came in a close 2nd to our Mother's cake. We also drove by Joey, our nephew's, new home. We just got to see the outside of it because he was not at home. It is so nice. I'm anxious to see the inside. He lives in Hemet with his wife, Angie, and their daughter, Michelle, and son, Ryan.

I slept all the way home. For some reason I've been really sleepy for about four or five days now. Can't explain it. We arrived home and, as usual, we were happily and lovingly greeted by our wonderful Luke! Taylor and Michael were out on a bike ride and Jamie was in his room watching television.

Checked on the veggies and herbs and all looking good.

Sure wish Judy didn't have to go back to work tomorrow. I can't believe where the week has gone. We have had a terrific time and wish it could go on and on. I'll be glad when she can retire.

Saturday Gardening

Today we did some more gardening. More herbs, squash, cucumbers,red and yellow peppers, zucchini, and some marigolds to help keep the bugs away.

Luke has been acting strangely. He spends a lot of time in the dark hallway of our laundry room. His behavior is usually when one or more of us is gone but it its definitely upsetting to us. I know he has always suffered from separation disorder but sitting in the dark?

Tomorrow is Michael's birthday and we are going to celebrate with him. Hopefully, we can help cheer him up a bit. They had a nice memorial service for Judy at the hospital and everyone attended from patients to staff to administration. It made Michael feel really good.

Today is Michelle Mattie's birthday. She is my niece from my nephew, Joey and his wife, Angie. They celebrated her party today.

Seth spent the day with Taylor. They all seemed to have a good time.

Friday and Judy goes back to work Monday!!!!Ugh!!!

We have had such a good time that I just hate to see the week come to an end. We not only had a good time, we got so much done.

Taylor's "Crappy" Job!

Taylor needed money to pay for his new bike and to buy a new electrical cord for his laptop and Katie' called and offered Taylor a job of cleaning up doggy doo-doo for a substantial amount of money. We are hopeful that the Day's are pleased with Taylor's work and will call him again. As for Judy and I, we were so happy that Taylor accepted the job and followed through with it. By the way, I cannot take credit for the title "crappy job" that all goes to Rob. Judy brought home a cake she and Katie' made using Fondit and it was just the cutest thing.

Later Judy went with me downtown to take care of a disabled placard citation I received the day Jamie had surgery. We had to go downtown to 5th and A, some traffic dept. or other. I had already taken care of the citation by mail and the gentleman at the counter acknowledged this so basically I took care of it twice. What a pain! From now on I will throw the old one away as soon as I get the new one.

From downtown we went to our favorite stores: Fresh and Easy and Walmart. Upon leaving Walmart we stopped at Burger King hoping to get the Original Chicken Sandwich meal deal but that is only on Mondays. You really can't beat it for $2.99. We ended up having a Whopper which was just okay. For dessert we went down to Bonita McDonald's and got a McFlurry and went to our parent's graves to visit and enjoy our shakes.

The boys had a YM/YW beach party so we watched television while we waited for them to get home. Jamie and Cody went and got donuts. Yummy. No wonder we are so pleasantly plump!!

Today, Thursday, we finished cleaning Judy's room. It looks so nice. She just has drawers and shredding to do now. We had a nice dinner and relaxed afterwards. Well, I took a bath- the first in a long time (I have been showering) and it felt so good. Judy is still working on her bathroom. I can't believe how much we have accomplished this week. The next vacation will be a restful one. Even though we have worked and accomplished a lot that we are proud of, we still need to get a way for a while. We are really looking forward to Aunt Connie's visit whenever she is able to come for howeverlong she can stay. That will be relaxing...
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We had a Memorial Service for Judy, Michael's fiance. It was so short notice we could not make it but we will be with him Sunday. He went and fe felt good about the service so I am pleased about that. Michael's bithday on Sunday, August 16, 19971, will make him 38 years old. I am very proud of him and love him very much. I know how difficult this time is for him but he has his support team at the hospital and he has his devoted family to help him through the dark times.

Today we started out early. I had an appointment with my surgeon and now everything is in the works for at least one knee replacement and one arthrascopic knee or possibly two knee replacements. The doctor will decide next week after he sees the MRI. Later we went to our new best store to hang out in--Fresh and Easy.

Judy cooked a wonderful dinner which consisted of roast beef, mashed potatos, and corn. She used her new dutch oven I bought her for "sister's day." That's special for sisters who like to cook.

Tonight we are working on new kitchen curtains and will let you know how they come out.

Peach Freezer Jam

Yesterday, we went to church and spent the day enjoying each other's company and just resting. Wally called and we talked for along time. It was a really good visit. Judy was having let cramps really bad yesterday and Wally said that the "old folks" in Texas say to drink one half cup of pickle juice to stop the cramps. Well, Judy did and by golly it helped.

Today I started the day off talking to Michelle and Aunt Connie. Afterwards, however, Judy and I were all over the place again. From lab work to Walmart where Taylor bought himself a new bike. Thank goodness for Aunie Heidi and her big truck--when the bike didn't fit in the car Heidi came to our rescue. After we got home, Judy and I decided to make up the peach jam. It is good. We weren't too sure at first.

Talked to Michael two times today. He was just a little homesick. I miss him all the time, too. He's doing okay for having just lost his lovely fiance', Judy. He knows they will be together again and he is thankful that she is not suffering anymore-as we all are. We all love and miss her.