Attention, Soldiers!!!!

It's so boring when Judy isn't at home, I try to keep busy (like when she is home.) I didn't get enough laundry yesterday, I decided to do more here. I also got Michael's curtains hemmed-something I've wanted to do for awhile now. I was a little leary about using Judy's sewing machine but everything came out okay.

Taylor and Michael came home today from their aunt and uncle's. The house definitely isn't quiet anymore. Sometimes, though, it is just too darn quiet. Cody was asking about his great-grandfather's Marine uniform and I told him that Aunt Judy still had it. Well, he and Taylor were so excited and they wanted to know if they could see it and even try it on. Their grandfather was a Marine, too. However, I gave Heidi the photo of her dad in his dress blues.

Thursday at Heidi and Larry's House

I decided to go over to the kids house and help them out with some of their chores. They work all the time and have little time for themselves so...mom to the rescue. Actually the boys helped out a lot, Chris, Michael, and Taylor, and they went swimming in between. I was actually in Heidi's laundary room and I don't know what made me look up in one of the cupboards--I wasn't snooping, Chris was doing something, and I saw three great books: biographies on Pres. Lincoln's mother and Pres. Washington's wife. The other is "Mysteries of the Bible." Heidi said they weren't hers and she called Kay who said "Take them!" so I did. I'm looking forward to starting them.

Back to chores. We must have done twelve to fifteen loads of laundary! That alone kept us busy but we had a plan and it worked well. I even had time to make dinner and have it ready when the kids got home. AND Heidi made it home on time. She usually works 10-12 hours a day!

Taylor and Mike ended up staying the night again. Judy and I headed out home and decided to stop at Sonic for a burger and drink. We were going to have ice cream but just didn't have room for it. We got home and begged Luke's forgiveness for being gone all day and when we realized his forgiveness, we went to bed!

Back to Normal

Judy went back to work yesterday so I have been busy just getting some cleaning done and trying to get the boys ready to go back to school here pretty soon. Got Michael finished just have to work on Taylor's room now.

Judy goes back on vacation in a litttle over a week and I am really anxious for her to be home. We really had a good time when she had the four days off last week.

Is It Thanksgiving?

Today, my sister, Judy, made a wonderful dinner. It was just like Thanksgiving! We had turkey, dressing, yams, corn, homemade rolls and a fantastic dessert!!! Judy made Mom's recipe for mayonnaise chocolate cake--the best. Wow, did we feel special. Our cousin, Roxanne joined us and we caught up on all the old news and the new, too. Sister Lynda Designano stopped by to visit as we sat down to eat but we could not convince her to stay for dinner and we certainly had plenty. I really look forward to our next visit and being able to hear all about her mission. She is so dear to us.

We discussed doing some quilting since we have a dozen or more quilt tops that our mother and grandmother have sewn but not put together. Judy also has a bunch of little squares that are left from fleece blankets that she has made in the past. We always try to do something for the homeless people downtown during Christmas time so maybe we can make use (scraps of material and left over squares) (not our family heirlooms) to make them something to keep them warm during the winter. It's so much fun to give to people who really need help and they are always so surprised that someone wants to help them. We've been called angels many times by these people--just for giving them a warm blanket, some food, water, hygiene products and always a little fruit and candy. It makes us feel better than it does them. Judy, Heidi, my friend, Jimmie Carolyn and I usually do this project together but always look for volunteers.

I miss talking to my Auntie...so I wrote to her today. Then, low and behold, I got a phone call from my auntie! All is well!

If anyone out there like spider plants, we have them abundantly and would gladly give you some starts. Just let me know.

Green Thumb Wanna Beeeez!

It's a start. Our next project is to clean out the garden box we have on the "bad" side of the yard. We want to plant cucumbers and squash. We're going to plant a few more herbs, too. Sure do hope we have a little green in our thumbs.

Joe and Debra

This is really Joe, but that is an owl statue, not Debra!! ha-ha-a little humor. Debra was working her bottom off all day preparing food for us and taking care of her grandsons that she wasn't prepared for a photo. They have a beautiful home. I knew it would be beautiful but it was just b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l! Debra has always had that knack--that and cooking! Oh my gosh, what a meal she prepared for us. Ryan and A.J., their grandsons were there but I didn't even get photos of the boys. Duh! It was almost 110 degrees in San Jacinto which I am sure is not uncommon but Debbie and Joe have central air and we didn't even notice it-until we went outside.

Our visit with Michael was wonderful. Just too short. Nevertheless, we had nice conversation and he got all the good things he likes to eat. His face is getting so thin and he is just so handsome. I miss him very much.

We arrived home around 6:00 and Judy and I were both worn out. Judy put a pizza in the oven and we ate and were in bed by 8:00. That itself is not unusual but the fact that we were so tired was. It was a great day.

Busy Day

We've had a very busy day today. Started out with a Fireside at church this morning. It consisted of a wonderful breakfast, fun coversation with our sisters, canning, gardening, and making tortilla classes. Judy and I came home with a cherry tomato plant, a beef steak tomato plant, basil and chives, too. Now, we are going to garden...let you know.

Michael had work to do for Brother Prescott and then at the Bishop's. Taylor had a dance tonight in El Cajon and Michael went to Aunt Heidi and Uncle Larry's. In between, we went to Wal-mart to get planting soil and mulch (for the new plants) and tried to pick up Michael's camp photos. I couldn't believe it when the photo technician told me they wouldn't be ready for a week. Things have changed. I guess because of digital photography.

Judy and I did some bead work and also made another duvet cover. We have been busy!!! I told Judy tonight, after dropping Michael and Taylor off, that I was so tired I felt like I have been on vacation! Going to go getTaylor at 10:00 and then come home and get to bed. Early morning tomorrow--going to see Michael and then visit Debra and Joe.

Friday Feels Like Saturday

Today does feel like Saturday because Judy didn't have to go to work and we had fun and got a lot of things done: grocery shopping, beadwork, and Judy made me anew duvet cover for my comforter. We are going to make another one tomorrow.

Cody is here tonight and he has a lot of fun with "Bob" as you can tell by the previous video. What Michael won't think of next...

Carla Hancock came by for a visit last night and we had a great visit. Hope she comes again, soon. We had a lot of fun talking about different things and I'm sure she must think we are a nutty household...(that's because we are)!!!

Here's Bob...Part II

Where Have the Real Taylor and Michael Gone????

I can't get over it--Taylor and Michael have been together for four days and not one argument. They have been playing Wii and playstation together in Mike's room or in Taylor's. They even help each other with their chores. Where have the real Taylor and Michael gone?????

Welcome Surprises!

Today, I'm working on my Aunt Connie's life story. It makes me feel closer to her while she is away at Michelle's in Alabama. My aunt lives in Idaho but while she's gone we don't talk several times a day on the phone like we usually do. I miss her.

I'm also going to get another few chapter in on the book I am reading Ken Follett's: The Pillars of the Earth. I know I started reading it months ago-and it is a good book- it's just hard to sit down and read this book, with all the other books we read, sometimes. Tonight Judy and I plan to do some bead work...maybe start making Christmas presents since it will soon be here.

My brother-in-law, Charlie, aka Mick, called me on Skype today. After I finally figured out what was wrong with my camera, we had such a great call. Charlie is so fun and loving and it's really a good time getting to talk and see him at the same time. He enabled me to talk to my nephew, Charlie, who I have not seen or talked to in years and then today he called my other brother, Tommy, and we talked with him, too. Tommy lives in Boston, Charlie in Washington and Charlie, Jr--I can't remember where but I did love talking to him and getting to know him. Thanks, Charlie.

When Jamie was in the hospital on the 10th he came home with more than he paid for. They left a piece of plastic tubing (something to do with the i.v.) in his right wrist. He has to go back to the hospital in the morning and have it removed. The boys tease him that he won't be able to do anything (if you know what I mean) because he had surgery on his left shoulder and now his right hand is going to be cut on, too.

Talk about welcome surprises, Katie' called and asked if we had had dinner and said that she was coming over. Well, what a delicious surprise dessert she brought to us. Chocolate cake (without sugar)strawberry sauce and cool whip. I have to say that it was scrumptous and we had the most stimulating and interesting conversation while enjoying our dessert. Afterwards, we still got to enjoy "blog playtime" as tired as Katie' was. Thank you Katie'.

Judy Can Sew!!!!

I made chicken and new potatoes and green peas for dinner. Afterwards, Judy got on the sewing machine and she had my temple dress hemmed in nothing flat. I am so happy--I've wanted it shorter since I got it. I feel like it looks better, too.

Taylor and Michael got along with each other all day!! It's a miracle! They actually worked out chores to each others liking and played on their Wii and at other times during the day. We've almost got the old clothes cleaning done and the new in. Whew! The boys really dislike doing that--that's when I wish they were girls. Girls like to shop and accessorize and so on... Right, Kaylee and Courtney?

Everybody is getting new kitchens so I'm thinking of a project for myself. Whether or not it gets done is another story. But my plan is to take out the top shelf of the cupboards and use the next shelf for easily accessible counter top appliances. This will also afford me the opportunity to re-paper or fabric (I'm leaning to fabric) and I can get rid of a bunch of dishes and casserole dishes and all kinds of stuff that we don't need any longer. I love to pass on and use just what we need. Anyway, I'll keep you posted.

Thank you again, dearest sister, for making my dress to my likeing. I love you.

Today, I worked on getting visiting teaching message cards out. I really like doing this as it always teaches me, at the same time.

We did get through Michael's old clothes today in order to get ready for new school year...I have some small levi shorts, pants, shirts, church shoes (size 7 or 8), small boys suit jackets, and some other clothing. If anyone might be able to use them, please come by and take a look. We still have Taylor's to go through. Call me.

Family Photos

It all started with Mom and Daddy in September 1949 when they eloped. They were the best parents any child could ever hope to have.

I think everyone is right, I do take a lot of photos of Luke. These photos will just show you how much the kids have grown and the rest of us has changed in the last two years.

#1 Debra, my wonderful sister, our dear Mother, and brother Joe.

#2 Aunt Chris and Melanie at Disneyland for Melanie's 18th birthday celebration.

#3 Judy at Tauphus Park in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

#4 Cody, doing the "lift the upper lip" a talent only a few in the family has and he does it the
best!

#5 Birthday Party for Jamie and Heidi (always easy to tell, two cakes!)

#6 Larry, Billy (the horse) and Heidi.

#7 Relatives freezing in Idaho so I sent them a photo of me bundled up and the thermostat

reading almost 60 degrees! That was probably mean of me.

#8 These are photos of when we started going back to church after the boys were baptized.

#9 I can't believe how much they have grown and am so thankful we are BACK!!

#10 Taylor and Michael in front of a geyser on a trip to Yellowstone National Park.

#11 Aunt Connie, Michael, Blaine, Claudia, Taylor and Judy at Uncle Blaine's along the Snake

River in Shelley, Idaho.

#12 Heidi and Larry at Disneyland.

#13 Cousin Roxanne

#14 Family support when Mom was so sick.

#15 Chris in his dragster.

#16 Larry in his dragster.

#17 One of many wonderful Thanksgiving Days.

#18 Dearest, Judy.

#19 Jamie, Dawn, Cody and Luke

#20 Okay, Luke, again.

#21 My mom, the Queen, and her Princess, Heidi.

The kiss that started it all!!!

Cody Finally GetsTo Celebrate His 7th Birthday!

Judy woke up first this morning and found that Luke had been sick again last night. Of course that starts our day off with worrying about him. He seemed better by the time we were all up and out of bed.

We got up and went to church and that was wonderful. We finally got to meet Elder and Sister Prescott who have just returned home from their mission. What a lovely woman.

Cody's birthday (real birthday July 10) got off right on time--for once! 4:00 and everyone was here including the pizza. Judy made the cake and it was a great time. Cody was so patient. He only asked me about five times, "Grandma, how many more hours is it?" Larry played on Judy's new notebook, Chris and Taylor play pool and Michael played the winner. Jamie was feeling good enough to come out for most of the dinner and presents. Heidi and Dawn talked work the entire time. Larry and I had a nice visit, as usual and Judy talked to Larry(III) about the notebook. Hayley came in later and it was nice that she was able to make it. And, yes, Luke is feeling much better. I am so thankful.

We were all ready for bed by 9:00 p.m. Good night...

Welcome Home from Camp, Michael!

Saturday morning we got up to go to Earl Hardy's funeral. He was a lovely man and I thought the world of him. I met him when I started working at Kmart in Spring Valley over 25 years ago. He would come in every week with his film to have it developed and then he and I, and Pauline if she was with him, would look at his photos, talk about Idaho, and all the travels he and Pauline were doing at the time. He was a kind and gentle man with a great sense of humor. He conducted our dad's funeral and dedication of his grave. I will always remember him and Pauline with love and respect.

When we got home, Michael was home from boy scout camp. He was worn out (in a good way) and was excited to tell us everything. He brought Judy and I each an arrowhead. How neat! While at ccamp , Michael earned his Rifle, Survival Wilderness, and Communications Merit Badges. We are all so very proud of him.

We hurriedly changed our clothes and rushed over to the park to the church picnic. It was HOT! We ate and got to visit a little bit and then went home to cool off. Later Heidi and Larry came over with their truck to go to Katie' and Rob's to pick up my exercise bike.



Went to bed early and morning came even earlier!!!

Thanks, Katie'!

Katie' came over and worked and worked on mine and Judy's computers. Bless her heart. We fed her and sent her home with dinner for Rob but that is not nearly enough to express the thanks in our hearts for all that she is teaching us about the computer. I know she's exhausted because I am too!

New Toys

Judy, Taylor and I went shopping and Judy bought a new laptop. It's one of those cute little ones. She is going to have a lot of fun on it. We stayed up last night doing emails, addresses, websites and just having fun...I, too, bought something. I bought a Sony Portable Book Reader! I'm so excited because my Quad is so heavy I can't hold it and if I set it down in my lap, it is just far enough away that I can't see it-with or without glasses! So, I'm excited too. Taylor bought a CD and a movie and wanted to go to Sonic for dinner. We came upon a nice deal on movies that Michael likes. We were able to get him the entire series of Avatar for $3 each. He loves those cartoons and I know he will be pleasantly surprised when he gets home from camp. What fun, at Sonic, just like the old days. The ice cream is out of this world and the food was good too. The carhops are on rollerblades and their service was great! Hope Michael is having fun at camp. I miss him. Jamie is recovering nicely. Luke is fantastic! Katie', when do we get to blog again????
Can you tell I am ANXIOUS?

Boy Scout Camp!

Michael and I woke up at 4:30 a.m. to get to church by 5:15 a.m. Michael made quite a ritual out of getting dressed in his uniform. He said it was very important because he wanted to look nice for his leaders. That made me happy. His Dad was in the hospital and couldn't see him off and they were both sad about that. Michael was still excited about going. He was really happy when he heard R.J. was going, too.

I spent the day at the hospital with Jamie. He came home this evening and I'm hoping that the infection from his shoulder surgery doesn't reinstate itself somewhere else in his body. So far, it has gone from his ears to a UTI and what next?

Taylor had the house to himself all day and I know he loved that. Everytime I called him to check on him, the music was loud and he was playing video games and eating pizza!

Judy came by the hospital after work. After getting Jamie home, she and I went out and had some dinner to try and relax after a few hectic days. I don't know if it worked or not but a good nights sleep will probably help more. Luke is happy that we are all home now (except Michael, of course).

WELCOME HOME, KATIE' AND ROB!!!!

HAPPY 7TH BIRTHDAY, CODY!!!

Today Jamie finally had his surgery on his shoulder. We arrived at the hospital at 6:30 a.m. His surgery didn't happen until 9:30 a.m. due to complications that worked out okay. We finally got home about 5:00 and was pretty tired. Judy got off work early and joined me at the hospital at noon.

I was lucky enough to run into Pastor Paul who came and visited me almost daily when I was in the hospital last summer. He remembered me (the Mormon) and was as happy to see me as I was him. He couldn't believe how well I looked but I reminded him that it was a year ago. It was great seeing him. I also met a temple worker and her family while I was sitting in the waiting room and promised to find her next time we go to the temple. She knew we wouldn't be there tonight. She had the most beautiful white hair and she said to me when leaving, just look for the white angel.

All the family has called constantly regarding Jamie. We all love him very much and will be glad when the next few days are over and the pain will start to subside.

Oh, I almost forgot, Judy bought me a beautiful new necklace in the gift shop. I just love it and got many comments on it at the hospital. Hospital gift stores have the best items. The only fun thing about being there, usually.

MARK IT ON THE CALENDAR!!!!

Taylor and Michael are cleaning their rooms! I am so happy... I'm also happy Rob and dear Katie' will be home in a week. I'm so happy they have had this vacation but we miss them!!

Today Taylor and Michael helped me do some housecleaning. Jamie gave Luke a bath and he looks so handsome. After Luke's spa treatment, he was just "wiped out'.

Michael is busy getting all his gear checked and ready to go on his big scout trip.

Got up and went to church. After Judy and Taylor got home we were surprised by a knock on the door. It was our cousins Michelle, Adam, Lorea and Alana! We had a wonderful visit. Adam worked on both computers and got them working much better. Thank you, Adam. Later Judy bar-be-qued (spelling?) hot dogs and hamburgers. It was such a great day. Our visit was such fun. I wish we lived closer but am thankful for the time we do get.

Now, I've got the cute little saying where it shouldn't be---Katie', when are you coming home????

Jamie, Taylor, Michael and I went to the Boy Scout Store and got the rest of the things they need for Scouts. It's a neat store. When we finished we went by Judy's work to take her to lunch but she didn't have enough time so maybe we'll go to dinner. Jamie and Michael are at the doctor now getting Mikes physical for his scout trip. Taylor had summer school so isn't going this summer. I feel bad but his education has to come first.

Happy 4th of July to Everyone!!!

Judy made us fantastic chicken ka-bobs and macaroni salad. We had ice cream and watched a couple of movies.

At 9:00 we go out into our front yard where we have excellent seats to watch the firework display at the swapmeet. We've done this for years. It was a great 4th of July!

I'm doing better today after being on my backside for a few days with bursitis in my heal, again. Judy got off work early and we spent the afternoon together. Jamie took the boys over to Heidi's and they went swimming. Actually, they went to Heidi's yesterday, too. The day before that Jamie took his boys to the beach. So, its been quiet around here. Too quiet for Luke-- he just pouts and frets until the boys get home.