CUSTOM TIES BY MARY

JORDYN'S BAPTISM

2012-01-31T11:22:00.000-07:00

I like my birthdays, ev’ry one;
Each brings a greater joy to me.
But I can’t wait until I’m eight.
For then I’ll be baptized, you see.

To be baptized as Jesus was
By one who holds the priesthood true
And thus obey God’s holy laws
Is just the thing I want to do.

When we are baptized we make covenants (promises) with Heavenly Father. We promise to obey his commandments, forgive others, and follow Jesus Christ. In return, he accepts us into the Church and promises to guide and help us.

Now that Jordyn is 8 years old, she made the choice to be Baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Saturday Jan 28we were privileged to attend Jordyn's Baptism.

Jordyn was excited dressed in her baptismal Jump suit.

She had lots of family in attendance. She had a simple program before she went into the font.

After she was baptised by her Uncle Chris, she was confirmed and received the Gift of the Holy Ghost by her grandfather,

Jordyn was a happy girl.

Jordyn and her Daddy (Tom)

CONGRATULATIONS JORDYN! AUNT MARY IS PROUD OF YOU!!

A LATE DECEMBER BIRTHDAY PARTY

2012-01-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

Jordyn and I both have birthdays in December. Jordyn turned 8 this year. We still hadn't had time to celebrate our birthdays , so last night we finally had a birthday party. Tom's friend Carla joined us and Tom made homemade pizza.Homemade pizza has been a tradition since we were kids. Mom made pizza 4 times a year.

Jordyn and Hunter each got to make their own small pizzas.

After pizza Jordyn could hardly wait to open her presents.

She was very happy with her presents. (and better at posing)

After a couple of hands of Uno attack we had some birthday cake and death by chocolate ice cream.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JORDYN!!

NEW YEARS EVE 12/31/2011

2012-01-05T08:00:00.001-07:00

After birthdays we moved into our New Years Eve celebration. Most of the family went to Randy's annual rocket shoot and were tired, so tonight's party was very quiet and low key.
We played a few hands of Uno Reflex before the adults left to relax and work on craft projects.

Buddy joined us, but didn't like being outside alone with fireworks going off all around.

Almost everyone had early church so we decided to do fireworks early.

There were tons of sparklers. Kids of all ages had fun with them.

There were a few of the big fire works left for midnight.

HAPPY NEW YEARS EVERYONE!

DECEMBER BIRTHDAY PARTY

2012-01-04T21:45:00.000-07:00

On New Years Evewe gathered again at Party Central (Aunt Karen's House), this time to celebrate December Birthdays. We celebrated 3 of the 7 birthdays for this month.

Kendall is 29 this year.

Pam is 41.

I am older than both of them.

THANKS TO ALL THAT CAME TO THE PARTY & AND THANKS FOR THE GIFTS!!

FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY 12/23/11 GIFTS AND HANGING OUT

2012-01-02T17:00:00.000-07:00

The final part of the evening was exchanging gifts among the adults.

Aunt Karen put boxes around the room where gifts for each family group could be placed. In the past we would put everything under the tree and then we would have 15 or 20 family members all trying to hand out gifts at the same time. The box idea is genious, it makes this final portion of the evening much calmer.

These are some of the gifts we recieved this year. I didn't takes pictures of all of them.

We hung out and visited and had a good time throughout the evening

Eventually all the fun of the evening took its toll.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO MY FAMILY AND THANK YOU FOR ALL OF THE GIFTS!!

CHRISTMAS 2011 SANTA'S VISIT

2011-12-31T01:46:00.000-07:00

Santapaid a visit to the party Friday night. He started out reading the Christmas Story from Luke and bearing his testimony.

Then he visited with each child, teen and unmarried young adult and gave them a gift, and Santa bag.

Ephraim liked the bright paper.

Jonah

Hunter

Jordyn

Jasmine

Jake & Kari

As soon as everyone saw Santa the children were allowed to open their presents.

To see more pictures visit https://plus.google.com/photos/112478456432143593582/albums/5692196559271888193?authkey=CIjgqNq5mLqMUA

FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY 12/23/11 PART 2 A SPECIAL PRESENTATION

2011-12-29T22:57:00.000-07:00

Before the talent portion of the evening started Aunt Karen had a special presentation to make.

In September Aunt Karen and Cindy went to Utah to clean out Aunt Ella Mae's house and get it ready to sell, because she is now living in a Care Center.
Among her things they found a trunk with 3 handmade blessing dresses. Aunt Karen took them to Museum Quality Gown Care in Scottsdale and they were able to clean the dresses up and restore them.

This was my Mom's dress. It was hand stitched with French seams, embroidered flowers and a crocheted edging.

The dress is about 82 years old.

This was Aunt Ella Mae's dress, it is about 84 years old.

Aunt Karen's was done in Pink. Hers is about 68 years old.

During the presentation of the dresses there were very few dry eyes in the room. Having something hand made by our grandmother for our Mothers is such a special gift.

They also found this dress Grandma crocheted for Aunt Karen. The stitch is one I don't think I have ever done before.

THANK YOU AUNT KAREN FOR HAVING THESE PRECIOUS PIECES OF OUR HISTORY RESTORED.

FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY 12/23/11 PART 1

2011-12-26T08:00:00.001-07:00

On Friday Evening we gathered at Aunt Karen's Home for our annual family Christmas Eve party.

We started out with a feast that included Ham, Scalloped potatoes, meatballs, pink salad and many other delicious foods.

After we ate some of the family showed their talents.

Lyndi sang We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Amanda sang Angels We Have Heard on High, accompanied by Elijah

Brianna played a Violin solo.

The Bottomley String Quartet, Lori, Kendall, Brianna & Elijah played a song.

CHRISTMAS JARS

2011-12-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

Every yearmembers of our extended family give a gift to each family group in the family. This year I had chosen a crochet project and found with the expanding size of our family I didn't allow enough time to complete that project.Earlier in the fall I listened to a book called Christmas Jars Reunion by Jason Wright. This gift idea came from that book.

I put Candy Canes in each jar and ribbons around them.

The instructions:

-take the contents out of the jar.

-put jar in a prominent place

-at the end of the day put any loose change you accumulated during the day in the jar

-during the week before Christmas choose a family to give the jar to.

-leave it for them anonymously

All wrapped up pretty.

This is what 17 wrapped quart jars look like.

SANTA'S CHRISTMAS PRAYER

2011-12-22T08:00:00.002-07:00

Debra McCullar's Photos

Santa's Christmas Prayer

The sleigh was packed,

the reindeer were fed,

But Santa still knelt
by the side of the bed.

"Dear Father," he prayed
"Be with me tonight.
There's much work to do
and my schedule is tight.

I must jump in my sleigh
and streak through the sky,
Knowing full well
that a reindeer can't fly.

I will visit each household
before the first light,
I'll cover the world
and all in one night.

With sleigh bells a-ringing,
I'll land on each roof,
Amid the soft clatter
of each little hoof.

To get in the house
is the difficult part,
So I'll slide down the chimney
of each little heart.

My sack will hold toys
to grant all their wishes.
The supply will be endless
like the loaves and the fishes.

I will fill all the stockings
and not leave a track.
I'll eat every cookie
that's left for my snack.

I can do all these things Lord,
only through You,
I just need your blessing,
then it's easy to do.

All this is to honor
the birth of the One,
That was sent to redeem us,
Your most Holy Son.

So to all of my friends,
lest Your glory I rob,
Please Lord, remind them,
who gave me this job."
Author Unknown

TOLLESON WARD CHRISTMAS PARTY Dec 17, 2011

2011-12-18T22:13:00.001-07:00

Saturday evening the we gathered at the Tolleson Ward Building for our annual Christmas Party. There were a few technical difficulties with the grill,where the chicken for dinner was being cooked, but overall it was a fun evening, and the chicken was delicious and worth waiting for.

The Youth did several skits.

There was a piano duet by Brother and Sister Wallgren.

Kathy Jo sang a beautiful Christmas song.

The Primary children sang Joy to the World, with great enthusiasm.

The Bishop ended the program by reading a poem he wrote on his Mission.

No Christmas Party would be complete without a special visitor.

THANK-YOU TO EVERYONE WHO MADE THIS

A FUN EVENING!

TITHINGPALOOZA & BOOK SIGNING WITH BETSY LOVE AND THERESA SNEED

2011-12-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday our ward celebratedTithingpalooza,ward tithing settlement day. Its the day when the majority of our Ward members meet with the Bishop,so that tithing settlement takes just 1 long day instead of a lot of late evenings away from home.After my appointment I decided to go into Mesa to the Latterday Cottage Bookstore, to visit with Theresa Sneed and Betsy Love. I already had their books signed, so I was just there to say hi.

Betsy Love, Me & Theresa Sneed

It was a fun afternoon!

TUESDAY 11/29

2011-12-06T08:00:00.001-07:00

Tuesday Morning I had to get ready to fly home. There were a lot of people I wasn't able to see this trip, I wish I could have stayed another few days, but I didn't have enough vacation time.
The flight out of Boston was bumpy, the pilot couldn't find an altitude that was good.
My stop over was in Minneapolis/St Paul. I chose it because I thought it would be a smaller airport than New York or Atlanta. I was wrong, and had a 5 mile hike to get to my next gate.
The trip from Minneapolis to Phoenix was smooth and we arrived 40 minutes early.
I flew on Delta for my return trip. Their planes are more comfortable than the American Airlines planes were.

MONDAY NOV 28

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Monday I drove around a little more and took some more pictures.

The new town offices, This used to be Frasier JR High when I was in 7th grade.

The Northborough Historical Society

Trinity Church, I don't think I ever went into the building when I lived there, but it is a beautiful old New England Church.

The Library, maybe the most important building in town.

I drove back to my old neighborhood to take pictures.

This is the house I grew up in. When we lived there it was about this size.

The new owners added on to the side.

Our big beautiful maple tree is still in the side yard. (some things never change)

While I was in the old neighborhood, I stopped by and visited with Mrs Santucci.

and Mr MacNamara, Mrs MacNamara was out shopping. It was nice to see old neighbors, who had been a part of my life during my growing up years.

On my way to Shrewsbury I stopped at Ward Hill. I remember before I lived in the west, I used to think it was a scary high ski hill.

I was able to spend the evening with David and Lorinda Anderson. It was nice to see them again, and to talk to Trisha when she called.

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 27

2011-12-04T08:00:00.001-07:00

Sunday Morning I headed through the fog, with directions in hand for church. I attended church in the building on Chester St for most of my life, until 1985. With the new freeway, I managed to get lost (thank goodness for a good navigation app on my phone) and was late arriving.

Lisa and Al Andre and their son Scott joined me at the Worcester II Ward meetings, this Morning. I saw some old friends from when I was in the Worcester Ward. One big surprise was seeing my old childhood friend Linda. I didn't get a picture.
I visited Worcester 1 for a few minutes, to be able to participate in the sacrament, and as I was leaving saw my old neighbor Rick.
I went with Lisa and Al out to visit Brother Gamache, who is in a rehab center. He seemed happy to see us, but it was hard to hear him.
From the rehab, we went to visit Brother and Sister Randall, who have just moved back to MA. We had a nice visit.

Mary Randall

Earl Randall

Scott, Lisa and Al Andre

THANKS ANDREs FOR GIVING UP SLEEP TO SPEND THE DAY WITH ME!

35th CLASS REUNION

2011-12-03T09:00:00.001-07:00

.On Saturday, Nov 26 members of the class of 76 from Algonquin Regional High School gathered at Indian Meadows Country Club, in Westborough, MA for our 35 year reunion.

There were about 70 classmates there. Thank goodness for name tags, Everyone had changed a lot, as one would expect.

It was good to see old class mates again, especially Betty Anne, we were practically joined at the hip in High School.

We had a 50/50 raffle for the benefit of our class funds and the Northborough Food Pantry. After our dinner of Salad, ham. prime rib and cake we had a drawing for the money. There were also center pieces that were raffled off. This is the one I won. I had to take it apart to ship the old record albums home.

Cathy, me, Betty Anne & Wanda

some of the pictures taken with my camera came out blurry, but I decided to use the best of them.

All of the class members in attendance.

Every class member had a card with our senior pictures on them to take home.

It was a fun night, and I am grateful to Pam Dietz for planning such a fun evening.

I borrowed a couple of the pictures from the 1976arhs facebook page.

SATURDAY MORNING

2011-11-30T08:00:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Morning I did a dry run to make sure I knew where the reunion was being held, then off to Walmart to buy a couple of light weight T-shirts. It was unseasonably warm there for the last couple of weeks. On the way back to the motel I drove past some of the places I remember from growing up.

The rooster stands in the same place it always stood, but now there is an Italian restaurant there.

Algonquin has changed and grown

and been added onto

Peaslee School hasn't changed.

White Cliffs hasn't changed at all from when I was living in Northborough

The old town was rebuilt in the 70s, it is no longer used as the town hall.

I drove through the old neighborhood again. I will take pictures Monday.

TRAVELING TO NORTHBOROUGH FRIDAY NOV 25

2011-11-28T23:47:00.000-07:00

I left Massachusetts in August 1986 and haven't been back since Christmas of that year. I haven't been on a plane in 10 years, so this day was an adventure.
I left early for the airport, a habit I got from my Dad. It was a good thing since I-10 was closed at 59th Ave. I got there in plenty of time.
Security wasn't as bad as I imagined, and being early in the Morning, it wasn't too busy.

Sky Harbor International Airport
The flight to Chicago was bumpy, I'm pretty sure the pilot hit every pothole in the sky.

We got into O'hare 1/2 hour early, which was good. I had to go from the far end of one concourse to the far end of another.

O'Hare International airport.

There were still a lot of potholes to hit out of Chicago, but it was a short flight. I found out later that one of my former classmates was on the same flight.

Logan International Airport

Friday driving down the Mass Pike I remembered just how much I truly dislike that toll road.

After I checked into my motel I went out to check things out. It was dark, and everything looked different, but after some trial and error I found where I was going.

I visited Wegmans, because I had heard it was wonderful. It was just like any other grocery store, except bigger.

Next stop Dean Park Pizza, I used to love their pizza, I don't remember why now.

I drove back to the motel via South St. It was really too dark to see much, but there was a feeling of home.

I got back to the Red Roof Inn hoping that day light would make things look more familiar.

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAY 2011

2011-11-25T16:00:00.001-07:00

After dinner we celebrated birthdays. Jasmine had to leave right after dinner, so we didn't get to sing to her.Jared had to leave before the fake cake arrived so we used a pumpkin pie.

Jared is 22

Trevor is 6

Hunter was 10 in September, but hadn't been able to attend a party until now.

Kelsey is 18.

Jake is 22.

We didn't have cake for this party, but we had ice cream to go on the pies.

And of course there was more talking and visiting.

Shari and Kirt

Cindy

Randy

Frank

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVERYONE!

FAMILY THANKSGIVING 2011

2011-11-25T06:00:00.001-07:00

We gathered at Aunt Karen's home on Thursday for our traditional Thanksgiving Feast.

We had lots of yummy food.

And lots of pies (there were many more in the refrigerator).

Center pieces assembled by Shari.

Lots of family was in attendance.

This year we had plenty of left overs.

The cousins had a good time together.

And no Thanksgiving would be complete without a Black Friday War Council Amazingly I don't think anyone was planning to go out early in the morning this year.

BAR HARBOR CRANBERRY PIE

2011-11-24T16:00:00.000-07:00

What do you do when you buy too many cranberries?
This is what I chose to use my extras on.
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups cranberries
1 1/2 c sugar (divided)
1/2 c chopped pecans
2 eggs beaten
1 c flour
1/2 c melted margarine
1/2 c melted shortening

Preheat oven to 325.

Butter 9" glass pie plate.

Spread cranberries over the bottom of the pie plate.

Sprinkle 1/2 c sugar and 1/2 c pecans over the berries.

In a medium bowl mix eggs and sugar until well blended.

Stir in flour, margarine and shortening, beating well after each addition.

Spread over the cranberries.

Bake for 1 hour in a preheated oven until the filling is set and the top is lightly browned.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !

2011-11-24T06:00:00.001-07:00

WHOLE BERRY CRANBERRY SAUCE

2011-11-23T08:00:00.003-07:00

Homemade Cranberry Sauce is one of the traditions we have for Thanksgiving Dinner. For years Dad made a batch to take to Aunt Karen's for our family dinner. This year I decided to try my hand at making it.
Start with a bag of fresh cranberries (Shopping hint-- They cost a lot less at Walmart than at Fry's)

Boil 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. You can use less sugar if you want a more tart sauce.

When it is boiling add 1 bag of cranberries.

Bring them to a boil and boil for 10 minutes. You will be able to hear the cranberry skins popping.

Let it cool completely and put it in the refrigerator until time to serve it.

REMEMBER, FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS EAT CANNED JELLIED CRANBERRIES!

BOOK SIGNING WITH JASON WRIGHT

2011-11-21T08:00:00.003-07:00

Saturday, I went to Glendale Deseret Book for a book signing with Jason Wright. I met Jason at a previous book signing in Feb 2008. I was impressed that he remembered. We had a nice visit.

Jason is the author of Christmas Jars and Christmas Jars Reunion, along with several other books. His newest book is The Wedding Letters.
To learn more about Jason Wright and his books CLICK HERE.

GIRLS NIGHT OUT 11/12/2011 COOKIES AND DISTRACTION

2011-11-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

GOOD FRIENDS, GOOD CONVERSATION, AND ALL THE COOKIES YOU CAN EAT!

WHO COULD ASK FOR MORE?

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY

2011-11-11T08:00:00.004-07:00

Veteran's Day is Today November 11th. It was first celebrated on Nov 11, 1919 as Armistice Day to honor the Veteran's of World War I. In 1938, Armistice Day was made an official American Holiday. After World War II, citizens felt veteran's of all wars should be recognized. In 1954, congress changed the name to Veteran's Day. In the U.S., the holiday is celebrated by approximately 2.9 million U.S. veteran's with parades and ceremonies among other events.

Our family has had someone serve in every U.S. war since the American Revolution, including the Mormon Battalion.

Dad served in the Navy at the end of World War II, at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

George Cottam (Dad's Uncle) served in Germany in World War I. He was Killed in Action.

John Donohoo (Mom's Uncle) also served in Germany in World War I. He came home alive and shortly after returning died of a ruptured appendix on the way to the hospital.

Robert Burns Donohoo (Mom's Grandfather) left Tennessee to serve with a company from Illinois during the Civil War.

Oliver Gaultry Workman (Jacob Lindsay's younger brother) was with the Mormon Battalion.

Dewey Donohoo (Grandpa) served in Panama in WWI

Uncle Ross (Mom's Brother) was career Military.
He served in a lot of different places.

Max Skabelund served in
the military in the late 50's
and early 60s.

Rich Coppel was in the
Air Force in Viet Nam.

Steve Skabelund, served in Operation Desert Storm.

Adam Robinson, served in the current War in Iraq.

Today is a day to remember the Veterans who gave of their time and endangered their lives to keep us safe and free.

I am grateful to the members of my family both the ones pictured and the ones not mentioned who served in the military, and gave of their time, and for the families that stayed home to wait for them, worry about them, and pray for them.

This was originally posted Nov 11, 2009, but I can't say it any better now than I did then.

OCTOBER 2011 BIRTHDAYS PART 2

2011-11-01T08:00:00.001-07:00

After the Halloween party ended we celebrated the rest of our September/ October birthdays. With singing, cupcakes, ice cream and of course presents.

Kim was 30 something this year.

Randy was 38 and needed the help of Lyndi to blow out all of the candles.

Kirt turned 45 in September.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

FAMILY HALLOWEEN PARTY 2011

2011-10-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday Night Oct 29, 2011 we gathered at Aunt Karen's house for our annual Halloween Party. It was a perfect night to sit out in the yard.

We started out with traditional Halloween food, Hot Dogs, expertly grilled by Jake, Chili and Pulled Pork.

After dinner there were games for the kids set up in the yard. The kids young and old were dressed in their Halloween finery.

Lyndi

Uncle Max

Breanna

Elijah

Kyle

Jayden

Ephraim and Aunt Shari

Deirdra and Kal'el

Caralie

Cara

Jonah

We ended the Halloween Party with a pinata that was made (and broken) by Kaela.

All of the children under 10 got a few whacks at the pinata. Logan cracked it and Kaela finished it off.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN !!

TOLLESON WARD TRUNK OR TREAT

2011-10-29T02:43:00.000-07:00

Friday night Oct 28 The Tolleson Ward held its annual Trunk or Treat. Some Ward members went all out with decorating their cars.

There were games for the children, cupcakes, cotton candy and hot dogs cooked on the grill. As well as the traditional Halloween candy given out at the cars.

Children of all ages were in attendance and having fun.

I borrowed the last 2 pictures from Sister Cain. Thanks Sister Cain.

SUPER SATURDAY

2011-10-19T15:04:00.001-07:00

Saturday, October 15 was our annual Tolleson Relief Society Super Saturday. There were a variety of craft projects available to do and a bread making demonstration by Chef Tom (Walker).

Tina adding the ingredients for a batch of bread.

Chef Tom checking Tina's work.

Tina learning to kneed the bread. Later for lunch there was fresh baked bread to sample.

After the Demonstration we went back to our craft projects.

I made memory boards.

This is the sample board.

We started out by painting the boards. The next step was to modge podge a piece of scrap booking paper to the board.

We added the Memories vinyl and David O. attached the tin plate to the front.
The last step was to cut the flower petals out.

The finished product minus the flowers, which are still waiting to be completed.

The flowers will look like these when they are made.

It was a fun day, and nice to have the opportunity to visit with the Sisters in the Ward.

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2011 FAMILY BIRTHDAY PARTY

2011-10-09T01:16:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, October 8, we gathered at Aunt Karen's home for out monthly birthday party. We celebrated part of September and part of October, and we will celebrate the rest later in the month.We had 5 birthdays to celebrate, only 2 were able to attend. We missed Hunter, Victoria and Doug.

Darrin is 18 now.

Deirdra is 29

As always, we enjoyed cake and ice cream.

There were presents.

Alicia made special cupcakes for each person.

And we sat around and visited.

And speculated places Darrin might go on his mission next year.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

LADY'S NIGHT

2011-10-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday night, I went to Lady's Night at the Glendale Deseret Book. Betsy Love was there signing her new book Identity.

There were Brownies & Carrot Cake.

Lots of prize drawings, I won Wedding Letters by Jason Wright. There were nice photo albums for the 1st 100 women.

It was a fun evening.

HUNTER'S BIRTHDAY

2011-10-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we celebrated Hunter's 10th birthday (Sept 26).

He got presents

Jordyn is modeling one of Hunter's presents

He also got a Star Wars book.

We had pizza

and Milky Way cheesecake.

And sang Happy Birthday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HUNTER!!

BOOK LAUNCH- BETSY LOVE AND THERESA SNEED

2011-09-25T14:00:00.001-07:00

Saturday after my stop at Celebrating Sisterhood, I went and picked Hunter up at his grandparents house, so we could go to Barnes and Noble for the book launch party of Theresa Sneed and Betsy Love.

Theresa Sneed and Betsy Love

Theresa was signing her 1st Novel No Angel and Betsy was signing her 1st Novel Identity. There was a big crowd all afternoon.

Theresa Sneed, Betsy Love and Michelle Thompson (Also an LDS Author)

Hunter will turn 10 on Monday, so I gave him his present early. He was excited to have his former 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Sneed sign it.

Betsy, Sarah- looking a lot like her mother's book cover, and Lori.

There were door prizes, and Hunter won a signed No Angel poster. He was doubly excited, because he had 2 signed things by Mrs Sneed.

CELEBRATING SISTERHOOD AT SEAGULL BOOKS IN MESA, AZ

2011-09-25T08:00:00.001-07:00

I stopped into Seagull Book this afternoon, to get a copy of 17 Miracles and found that Celebration of Sisterhood was still going on.David Bowman a local Author and Artist was there to sign his newest book Dude, Don't Be a Lemuel.

To learn more about the book

CLICK HERE.

PHOENIX AREA QUILT SHOP HOP

2011-09-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

Friday 9/23 I accompanied Cindy to some of the shops on the Phoenix Quilt Shop Hop.
Our 1st stop was Bearly Stitchin in Goodyear.

It is a small store in the far west valley

They demonstrated a need new measuring square that has a groove in it that grips onto a seam when you are squaring up your blocks.

And as in all good activities there were treats.

Next we went to In Stitches, which was just around the corner, but in true Donohoo fashion, we saw much territory, before actually finding the store.

Their demo was on the tool that makes this quilt

This was another quilt they had on display that I thought was pretty.

Our last stop of the day was Quilter's Bee in Glendale.

This was one of the quilts in the window.

This was another one from the window.

This is a picture made from the only pattern I bought in our travels.

Our last stop has no pictures, we stopped at Hobby Lobby to try and get inspiration for family Christmas gifts. Nothing jumped out and inspired.

It was a fun afternoon, maybe I will do it again in the future.

BABY SHOWER FOR ALICIA AND BABY GIRL BOTTOMLEY

2011-09-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

On Friday Sept 16, I went to a Baby Shower for Alicia and her 1st baby girl, after 2 little boys.
There were lots of presents.

And some games

and then Alicia got down to the business of opening presents

for a short while with Jonah's help

The baby got a lot of cute clothes

and bouquets of onsies, and other baby necessities (made by Kari)

Baby girl Bottomley will be well set to start her life.

The baby's room will be done in lady bugs, so Cara made a lady bug cake for the party.

It was very pink and green inside, but it was also really good.

CONGRATULATIONS KENDALL AND ALICIA, I LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING OUR NEWEST FAMILY MEMBER!!

NICOLE'S BABY SHOWER

2011-09-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, Sept 1, we got together at Tammy's house for a baby shower for Nicole.
We started the party with treats while the guests arrived. We then went around the room and told how we met Nicole (the more outrageous the story, the better), and gave advise about the baby.

Diaper cake centerpiece, made by Ginger.

There were a lot of fun gifts.

including a hand made raggedy quilt

a zadyball CHECK OUT OTHER ZADY BALL DESIGNS

and hand made booties and a hat.

CONGRATULATIONS NICOLE, WE'LL BE LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING BABY DAGNEY SOON!!

AUNT KAREN'S RETIREMENT PARTY

2011-09-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

Aunt Karen retired after working 27 years in the office at Shepard Jr High in Mesa, AZ.

The party was held after school on August 30.

Aunt Karen spoke to the guests.

There was a good crowd in attendance, both people from the school

Teresa and Karen

and family members

Karen and Ephraim (newest great grandson)

Lori and Randy

Jared, Cindy, Caralie, Brigham and Ephraim

Kari and Brianna

There was cake

and other finger foods

and there were cards and gifts

CONGRATULATIONS AUNT KAREN, RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR RETIREMENT!!

MEETING BABY MAX

2011-09-06T21:14:00.000-07:00

Sunday, Aug 28, after church at my old Salt Lake Home Ward, I went to Uncle David & Aunt Dolores' home for Pizza and Phase 10.
Later in the evening, we were able to go to my cousin Mike's where I was able to meet his wife Sheri and his adorable new baby Max.

WORCESTER WARD REUNION 2011 Part 2 the "Older Generation"

2011-09-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

Toward the end of the reunion we wandered down to Dick & Nelia Hopkin's home, to visit with some of the "older generation" of the Worcester Ward. We went around the room and told what we had been doing since we moved west.

Lynda & Gil Fuller

Roy & Beverly Zitting

Judy Ault

Brother & Sister Jensen

John Ault

Jay & Delene Holbrook

Nelia Hopkins

It was an enjoyable way to end the evening.

THANK YOU SISTER HOPKINS FOR OPENING OUR HOME TO US.

WORCESTER WARD REUNION 2011 Part 1

2011-09-05T11:06:00.001-07:00

Saturday afternoon (Aug27), we gathered at Joe and Audri Ence's home for our 3rd annual Worcester Ward Reunion. It was a wonderful afternoon full of old friends, food, visiting and getting caught up.

Ingrid Flanders, John Ault, Judy Ault, Bill Ence

Maria Bisanti

Cambrey Fuller

Lois Ence

Paul & Heidi Ence Ferrin & Maria Bisanti

CLICK HERE to see more pictures.

THANKS TO JOE & AUDRI ENCE FOR HOSTING ANOTHER FUN REUNION!!

BOOK SIGNING IN LAYTON, UTAH

2011-08-31T09:00:00.003-07:00

Saturday afternoon I headed up to Layton, to the Barnes & Noble, where they were having an Author Extravaganza. I didn't get pictures of all of the authors, Nancy Campbell Allen was not at the table when I was there.

Jewel Adams is the author of The Legacy , The Wishing Hour and several other awesome books.

Julie Coulter Bellon, writes International intrigue, her latest book is Ribbon of Darkness.

Marie Higgins, her latest book Hearts Through Time is a paranormal romance (Not as scary as it sounds). I am looking forward to reading more of Marie's books.

Abel Keogh, I haven't read any of his books yet, but The Third is on my too be read list on Kindle. And Joy Spraycar I haven't read any of her books yet.

K.R. Bailey

It was fun to see Julie & Jewel again and to meet Marie & Abel.
Have I mentioned lately how much I love book signings and meeting authors?

BOOK SIGNING WITH TRISTI PINKSTON

2011-08-30T21:24:00.001-07:00

Saturday after breakfast, I headed to Murray Costco, where I met Tristi Pinkston. I have been a big fan of Tristi's for several years since I read her book Nothing to Regret.

I had a pile of books to have signed. It was fun to finally meet Tristi and visit for a few minutes.
I am looking forward to reading her new book Hang 'Em High.

SATURDAY BREAKFAST

2011-08-29T10:00:00.001-07:00

Saturday morning I had breakfast with Sara Donohoo Torres. Sara is a cousin I had never met. She is my Uncle Ross' granddaughter..
We ate and talked for almost 3 hours.
It was nice getting to know Sara. I hope it won't be long until the rest of the family will have the opportunity to get to know Sara.
WELCOME TO THE FAMILY SARA

FEED THE BIRDS

2011-08-28T23:10:00.000-07:00

Friday I went and spent the day with Uncle David & Aunt Dolores. We went to lunch at Chuck a Rama, and then went to a local cemetery that is well known for its deer population.

There were a lot out on Friday.

There were tons of ducks and geese at Sugarhouse Park, so we stopped and fed them some duck bread we got at the Hostess Bakery.

They were a happy herd of birds.

3 DOWN 1 TO GO

2011-08-28T12:54:00.000-07:00

GAS

2011-08-24T20:00:00.000-07:00

I bought gas for this price today!

CHOCOMALLOW BROWNIES

2011-08-24T14:56:00.000-07:00

When Mom needed to make brownies for a special occasion, when plain brownies just weren't quite enough, this was her Brownie of choice.

I am making a batch to take to this weekends Worcester Ward Reunion in Bountiful, Ut. I admit I cheated and used boxed mixes. Its somewhere close to 116 degrees today, I'm not sure why I decided to bake, except that I must really like the friends I will be getting together with.

Cream together:

1/2 LB Margarine 2 C Sugar

1/3 C Cocoa

Add 4 eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each.

Mix in:

1 1/2 C flour 1/4 tsp salt

2 tsp Vanilla 1-1 1/2 C Nuts (optional)

Spread on a greased jelly roll pan and bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes. Spread entire package of Mini marshmallows on top of the hot brownies and return to the oven for 3-5 minutes. Cool.

ICING:

1/4 lb margarine 1/3C evaporated milk

1/3 C cocoa 2 C powdered sugar

Heat evaporated milk with melted margarine. Add remaining ingredients & spread over the marshmallows. Let stand overnight before cutting & serving.

PENCILS

2011-08-13T17:59:00.001-07:00

Pencils are very useful for writing, and other school work but with a little imagination they can become:

A SKYSCRAPER

Hunter has way too many pencils and lots of imagination.

BLESS YOUR HEART- NEW COOKBOOK AND A CONTEST

2011-08-04T20:11:00.000-07:00

From Tristi Pinkston:

"I wrote my new cookbook, “Bless Your Heart,” to help those who are interested in heart health to learn how they can prevent future heart problems by lowering the sodium in their daily diets. It’s not just for those who already have heart conditions—isn’t it better to prevent a heart attack than to recover from one? Heart disease is the #1 killer in our country right now, even beating out cancer for the top spot, and sodium contributes to heart disease. I wanted to give others some delicious, quick, easy meals they can serve their families and to help them put their heart health front and center on their priority list."

Karey White is hosting a contest to win a copy of Tristi's new cookbook.

To learn more about how to enter and to read more of Tristi's comments CLICK HERE

BOOK LAUNCH PARTY FOR MICHELLE THOMPSON AND FLAMES OF REDEMPTION

2011-07-30T00:17:00.000-07:00

Tonight I attended a Book Launch Party for Michelle Thompson’s new book Flames of Redemption. The party was held at her friend’s house in Tempe.

Michelle signed books, while the crowd was arriving.

There was a good sized group on hand

To listen to Michelle as she read some passages from Flames of Redemption.

Michelle, along with her family and friends went all out for this party.

There was lots of Yummy food.

Bookmarks

Book Bags

And tons of fun door prizes.

I won the perfect door prize—a gift card to Changing Hands Book Store.

Michelle Thompson and Me

To learn more about Michelle Thompson and her books

CLICK HERE

BOOK SIGNING WITH LISA MANGUM

2011-07-22T21:30:00.001-07:00

This afternoon I made a trek to Mesa after work. My ultimate goal was Deseret Book for a book signing by Lisa Mangum.

I had a couple of hours to kill, so I visited some other LDS book stores. I spent a few minutes wandering around Pioneer Books and Gifts.

My next stop was Seagull Book, again mostly to wander and get my book store fix for this month.

Finally the time came to go across the street to Deseret Book.

I got there a few minutes early, and there was already a crowd gathering.

Lisa Mangum, signing my books.

Lisa Mangum

I haven’t read Lisa’s books yet, but they are on my Too Be Read list.

It was nice to meet Lisa and visit for a minute.

SUMMER BIRTHDAY PARTY

2011-07-19T08:00:00.006-07:00

After Logan’s baptism we gathered at Randy and Kim’s for lunch. I didn’t take any pictures of the food, but we had Yummy Barbecue Pork sandwiches, chips, potato salad & Cole slaw.

After lunch we had our summer birthday party. We haven’t had a party since Easter so we had 11 birthdays to celebrate. Rebecca & Staci weren’t able to make it this month.

Aiden turns 4 in July

Carson was 4 in May

Logan was 8 in June

Brigham was 23 in May

Andrea was 25 in May

Steve was 43 in May

Leanne was 48 in June

Rich will be 64 in July

Max was 73 in July

There were a lot of cards and presents.

Alicia made a small decorated cake for each of the birthday people.

The little ones were happy and had fun. There was a bouncy house in the back yard, that they filled with water.

Kaela and Randy

Jonah

As usual there was much chatting and visiting among family members.

Chris & Kendall

Leanne & Rich

Lori

Lori, Brigham & Jennifer (Who really would have rather been home with a new baby, than available for a family party).

And of course napping is always in order.

LOGAN'S BAPTISM

2011-07-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday Morning we gathered in Mesa to attend the Logan’s Baptism.

Logan

He was baptized by his dad Randy.

And he was confirmed by Randy with Family and friends that hold the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Max, Jared, Brigham, A Friend, Randy, Logan, Kirt, Jake, Tom, Kendall, a Bishopric Member

Logan with his proud Mom Kim and Dad Randy

Back: Darrin, Kim, Randy, Kyle

Middle: Ryan, Kaela, Logan

Front: Trevor, Lyndi

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR BAPTISM LOGAN!

JUDAS ASPARAGUS- The Children's Bible in a Nutshell

2011-07-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

(This is amazing and should bring tears of laughter to your eyes. I wonder how often we take for granted that children understand what we are teaching?)

A child was asked to write a book report on the entire Bible. Here is what was written:

The Children's Bible in a Nutshell

In the beginning, which occurred near the start, there was nothing but God, darkness, and some gas. The Bible says, 'The Lord thy God is one,' but I think He must be a lot older than that.
Anyway, God said, 'Give me a light!' and someone did.
Then God made the world. He split the Adam and made Eve. Adam and Eve were naked, but they weren't embarrassed because mirrors hadn't been invented yet.
Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating one bad apple, so they were driven from the Garden of Eden.....Not sure what they were driven in though, because they didn't have cars. Adam and Eve had a son, Cain, who hated his brother as long as he was Abel. Pretty soon all of the early people died off, except for Methuselah, who lived to be like a million or something. One of the next important people was Noah, who was a good guy, but one of his kids was kind of a Ham. Noah built a large boat and put his family and some animals on it. He asked some other people to join him, but they said they would have to take a rain check. After Noah came Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jacob was more famous than his brother, Esau, because Esau sold Jacob his birthmark in exchange for some pot roast. Jacob had a son named Joseph who wore a really loud sports coat. Another important Bible guy is Moses, whose real name was Charlton Heston. Moses led the Israel Lights out of Egypt and away from the evil
Pharaoh after God sent ten plagues on Pharaoh's people. These plagues included frogs, mice, lice, bowels, and no cable. God fed the Israel Lights every day with manicotti. Then he gave them His Top Ten Commandments. These include: don't lie, cheat, smoke, dance, or covet your neighbor's stuff. Oh, yeah, I just thought of one more: Humor thy father and thy mother. One of Moses' best helpers was Joshua who was the first Bible guy to use spies. Joshua fought the battle of Geritol and the fence fell over on the town. After Joshua came David.. He got to be king by killing a giant with a slingshot. He had a son named Solomon who had about 300 wives and 500 porcupines. My teacher says he was wise, but that doesn't sound very wise to me. After Solomon there were a bunch of major league prophets. One of these was Jonah, who was swallowed by a big whale and then barfed up on the shore.
There were also some minor league prophets, but I guess we don't have to worry about them. After the Old Testament came the New Testament. Jesus is the star of The New Testament. He was born in Bethlehem in a barn.(I wish I had been born in a barn too, because my mom is always saying to me, 'Close the door! Were you born in a barn?' It would be nice to say, 'As a matter of fact, I was.') During His life, Jesus had many arguments with sinners like the Pharisees and the Republicans. Jesus also had twelve opossums. The worst one was Judas Asparagus. Judas was so evil that they named a terrible vegetable after him. Jesus was a great man. He healed many leopards and even preached to some Germans on the Mount. But the Republicans and all those guys put Jesus on trial before Pontius the Pilot. Pilot didn't stick up for Jesus. He just washed his hands instead. Anyways, Jesus died for our sins, then came back to life again. He went up to Heaven but will be back at the end of the Aluminium. His return is foretold in the book of Revolution.

JESUS ON THE 4TH OF JULY

2011-07-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

We gather 'round to celebrate
On Independence Day
Pay Homage to our Country
As the children run and play.

With barbecue and picnics
And fireworks in the air
The flag we own is proudly flown
To show how much we care.

The stars and strips spell freedom
She waves upon the breeze
While bursts of colors can be seen
Above the towering trees.

This is all quite wonderful
We revel in delight
But God above in divine love
Has brought this day to light

With just a stroke of liberty
A touch of His great hand
He gave democracy to us
And helped this country stand.

The stripes upon our stately flag
Were touched by His sweet grace
Each star of white that shines so bright
Reflects His loving face.

So as you turn to face the flag
For battles that were fought
Be filled with pride for those who died
And freedoms that were bought.

But don't forget to thank the One
That gives the bright display
The reason why we paint the sky
On Independence Day.

Copyright (C)--Marylin Ferguson--2003

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!

KARI & JAKE'S OPEN HOUSE

2011-07-02T23:30:00.000-07:00

Kari & Jake got married on June 25, and had an open house for friends and family in the Valley that couldn't make it up to Snowflake on Thursday. In true Kari fashion this was a memorable night. Earlier in the day there was a transformer fire and the electricity was out at the church. With lanterns, battery operated tea lights, and flashlights the party went on.

The front entry had the guest book

and lots of pictures

Kari & Jake

There were refreshments, fruit and pork rolls and

Candy

The centerpieces had live fish in them and they were a good place to put tea lights.

Aunt Karen, Sandra & Erik

There were family and friends to visit with.

And cake to eat. (and it was really good)

Shari (mother of the bride) and friends Betsy & Wendy, minutes before the lights came back on.

CONGRATULATIONS JAKE & KARI !!

Free Workshop: Creating an Illustrated Children's Book

2011-06-30T23:06:00.000-07:00

Tuesday I attended a free workshop at A1 Book Fairs Warehouse that was put on by Writers Unite to Fight Cancer.
To invite a bookaholic like me to attend an event in a book warehouse, could have been dangerous, but I was strong.

Our Host from A1 Book Fairs Warehouse.

Margaret Turley was the organizer of the event.

Deirdra did a presentation on illustrating, different types of illustrations that you might choose for your book, and choosing an artist.

Deirdra , Cecily Markland, Margaret Turley, Patti Hulet, Cindy R Williams. Deirdra, Patti & Cindy did presentations about how to create a children's book.

After the presentation there were books and pictures to purchase.

Cindy Williams personalized her book Chase McKay Didn't Get up Today.

Deirdra had some of her prints available. To see some of her other prints go to www.Knightess.com

There was a good sized crowd in attendance.

Teresa Sneed (who's 1st book will be published soon)

And best of all, besides learning a lot about the process that goes into writing and illustrating a children's book, I got to spend time with my cousin's Chris & Deirdra.

I AM A CHILD OF GOD

2011-06-26T08:00:00.001-07:00

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

2011-06-19T08:00:00.001-07:00

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!

HOME GROWN VEGETABLES

2011-06-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Leanne planted a few vegetable plants in the front yard. Vegetables grow better in the front yard and they taste better, than backyard vegetables.

We have 1 cucumber plant, you can't tell by the picture but it has a lot of blooms on it.

A couple of weeks ago, we enjoyed this cucumber as part of our Sunday Dinner. It was sweet and crisp.

Yesterday when we got home from church, this little guy had grown. It was about inches long yesterday, and growing fast. Maybe another Sunday treat?

There is also a cherry tomato plant that is producing nicely.

The Rosemary bushes are along standing part of the landscaping. They are thriving too.
Soon it will be too hot for the cucumbers and tomatoes so we will enjoy while we can.

LEANNE'S BIRTHDAY

2011-06-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

Leanne's birthday was yesterday June 5, it ended the part of the year that she and Tom are the same age. He is happy to point out that she is older again.
We decided to celebrate today, because Hunter and Jordyn are visiting for the week.

We had Pizza for dinner.

Tom and the kids made an Andes Candy Cheesecake as our celebratory sweet.

It was yummy as always.

After dinner Hunter challenged us to a game of Uno Attack

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEANNE!!

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY-- FREEDOM'S NOT FREE

2011-05-30T12:17:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!! THANK-YOU TO ALL WHO SACRIFICED FOR OUR FREEDOM!!

VISITING WITH OLD FRIENDS

2011-05-25T22:58:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday I ventured out to Maricopa, AZ to visit with Anna Anderson, who is visiting Frank for a few days.
I've known Anna for what seams like forever. It was wonderful to see her and visit about life, family and old friends.
I used to babysit Frank and his younger siblings when he was a bratty little kid, and later he was my sidekick for many trips into the projects to pick up and drop off a sister in our Ward on the way to Scouts. I would have never admitted it at the time, but I felt a little safer having him with me after dark in Great Brook Valley, I'm not sure even my Mother could have convinced me to go in there alone.
THANKS FOR THE VISIT, IT WAS GREAT TO SEE YOU AGAIN!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD

2011-05-25T09:00:00.001-07:00

Today would have been Dad's 84th Birthday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! WE MISS YOU!

BABY SHOWER FOR JENN & BABY BUNKER

2011-05-24T23:32:00.000-07:00

Last week we gathered at Aunt Karen's for a baby shower for Jenn and her soon to arrive new little boy.
We had plenty of good snacks

to munch on

There's always time for visiting.

We played a couple of games

Jenn got a lot of presents to welcome the new baby.

He will be a very well dressed little boy, with a lot of other fun stuff.

CONGRATULATIONS JENN & BRIGHAM

2 DOWN

2011-05-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

2 More to go

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2011-05-08T16:49:00.001-07:00

A TRIBUTE TO MY MOM

My Mom was born 15 Oct 1929 in Lapointe, Utah. She was the 3rd child & 2nd Daughter. Mom was a tomboy and even though her Mother made her learn girly things like quilting, embroidery, crochet and sewing, she would rather be climbing trees.
Each year Mom would receive a new doll for Christmas, but to be able to receive the doll she had to show that she had taken good care of the previous doll. Every year, right after Christmas she would bury the new doll and dig it up in time for the next Christmas.

Ella Mae, Grandma & Mom
Mom lost her mother when she was 15 years old, leaving her and her older sister to help raise their baby sister age 19 months.
Mom served a mission to Minneapolis, MN and Winnipeg, Manitoba.

When she came home she was met Dad on blind date, and didn't really like him.

That changed and on 28 March 1957 they got married.

Mom loved her family. She expected us to work hard. During summer vacations we would go to local orchards and pick fruit, whatever was ripe and bring it home. We spent much time in the summer canning fruit and vegetables. In the winter we would have peaches, apple sauce, rhubarb, strawberry jam, pickles of all kinds, catsup, and even better there were always pies made and put in the freezer for a special treat during the winter.

We were expected to help clean the house on Saturday Mornings before we could go play. My first chore was washing the dishes after school.

Mom knew what she wanted and had a way of getting it. One incident I remember was during the time she was the Primary President. Our Branch President was a convert who had never been to Primary and had no idea of how important it was. After a particularly frustrating time of not getting anyone she asked for as teachers, she called the Branch President out of Sacrament meeting and read him the riot act.

Over the years Mom taught us the importance of service, by helping make and deliver meals, babysitting, etc.
In 1988, Mom and Dad retired to Gilbert, AZ, where she was very happy. They were able to make 2 trips to Japan to visit Richard's family. She was always a bit sad that her grandchildren lived so far away.

Back: Nick, Dad, Mom

Front: Michael, Rachel

In 1998 Mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, she did really well for a few years, but then the disease started to take its toll. So in 2002 she moved to Tolleson, to be closer to her kids. She was blessed with 2 grandchildren, who lived locally during that time.

Jordyn wasn't born when we had our last family picture taken, so I added a separate picture, because Mom adored her, even though they didn't have much time to become acquainted.

During my life, Mom taught me to work hard, she always cheered on my efforts to learn to sew, crochet, etc., she taught me to be a good Visiting Teacher, and to always give 100% to any calling I accepted. She was known to say, "If you don't think you can do a good job at a calling and you aren't going to give it everything you've got, its better to say no."

Mom passed away on 4 Nov 2004, after 2 months in various hospitals, and care centers. Even though her family misses her, we know she is happier now.

I found this poem on line and felt it was appropriate and accurate.

In tears we saw you sinking, And watched you pass away.
Our hearts were almost broken, We wanted you to stay.
But when we saw you sleeping, So peaceful, free from pain,
How could we wish you back with us, To suffer that again.
It broke our hearts to lose you, But you did not go alone,
For part of us went with you, The day God took you home.

If Roses grow in Heaven, Lord please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms and tell her they're from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her, and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy, I do it every day,
but there's an ache within my heart that will never go away.

Don't think of her as gone away Her journey's just begun
Life holds so many facets This earth is only one
Just think of her as resting From the sorrows and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort Where there are no days and years
Think how she must be wishing That we could know, today
Now nothing but our sadness Can really pass away
And think of her as living In the hearts of those she touched
For nothing loved is ever lost And she is loved so very much.
Anonymous

I originally posted this for Mother's Day 2009, but I felt it was appropriate to post it again. Some of the pictures have been changed from the original post.

MARCH/APRIL BIRTHDAY PARTY 2011

2011-04-27T18:17:00.001-07:00

Saturday after the Easter Egg Hunt we celebrated birthdays for late March and April. We had 7 birthdays, but Tom wasn't able to attend, so we celebrated 6.

Lyndi is 3

Kyle is 14

Jenn is 24

Alicia is 25

Chanelle is 32

Lena is 35

We had dark blue cupcakes (left from Erik & Andrea's reception) and spice cake with ice cream

What would a family party be without a little visiting?
Here are a few more pictures for your enjoyment.

Jenn

Alicia

Lena

Chanelle

Kyle

Lyndi

FAMILY EASTER EGG HUNT

2011-04-24T23:26:00.000-07:00

Saturday, we gathered at Aunt Karen's house for our annual Easter Dinner and Easter Egg Hunt.
Dinner was really good, I didn't take any pictures of it. After dinner some of the adults went out and hid Easter Eggs. There were hundreds of eggs. Some were hidden in plain sight for the little kids.

Some were a little harder to find.

The kids had fun opening each egg to see what was inside.

Trevor & Rich

Andrea helping Makayla

Caralie

Cara

Andrea, Makayla, Aiden, Carson & Jonah

Back: Ryan, Kaela,

Middle Kyle, Lyndi, Darren,

Front Trevor, Logan

All of our egg hunter's for Easter 2011

HAPPY EASTER

2011-04-24T00:50:00.000-07:00

MY COMPANION VOICE

2011-04-21T23:04:00.001-07:00

COMMUNICATION for the COGNIZANT NONVERBAL PATIENT by Jean Alleman,Trudy Brown & Susan Robison

About the Book:

If you're a patient whose mind knows what to say but whose mouth is unable to convey those thoughts, you've probably become very frustrated with finding a way to get your needs met. If you're the caregiver watching or trying to help the patient, you've likely become frustrated as well. Communication is about to become easier. With the help of this book, patients will finally be able to express their needs without speaking.

Simple sentences such as 'I am thirsty. May I have some water?' and so forth allow patients to point out the thought they need to share so caregivers know just how to help. With colorful illustrations and an easy format, Communication for the Cognizant, Nonverbal Patient is the book that will give a voice to patients.
This is a wonderful book that provides a way for patients who have lost their ability to speak to still communicate their needs. It was created by 3 sisters who dealt with the frustration their Mother had in trying to communicate with her caregivers, at the end of her life.
It includes simple sentences that express the needs of a patient. It has big print so patients who are visually challenged can use it too. I took a couple of pictures of the pages so everyone could see how it works.

There is a section on basic hygiene.

Food

Comfort

And there is a page with letters, so the patient can either point to the letters to spell out a need . The alphabet page is numbered so that if a patient can't point the caregiver can still find out what they want.

I spent several months sitting with my Dad in a care center last fall and while he was able to make his wishes known, I saw a lot of people that would have benefited from this book.

I would recommend this book to anyone who has family members who aren't able to communicate, or who works in a Care Center.

For information about ordering go to: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61739-917-6.

You can check out My Companion Voice on www.facebook.com

A copy of this book was provided to me by Cheri Crane.

GIRLS NIGHT OUT

2011-04-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

We got together last night at Tammy's house for Girl's Night Out and to pre-celebrate Ginger's Birthday.
We had lots of Munchies and then Those who wanted to did Karaoke.

Ginger

Tammy

Leanne

Adrienne

After singing there was a Wii dance competition.

Joanne,Leanne, Tammy & Adrienne

Debbie,Abby,Nicole & Ginger

Here are some more pictures from last nights GNO for your viewing pleasure.

THE TOUCH OF THE MASTER'S HAND

2011-04-13T21:35:00.000-07:00

195 DRESSES

2011-04-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

Have you ever noticed how hard it is to find a modest prom dress? One young woman in Arizona came up with a solution for her community.

ONE DOWN

2011-04-03T15:45:00.003-07:00

THREE MORE TO GO

A LOVE STORY

2011-03-28T07:00:00.001-07:00

Mom and Dad were married on March 28, 1957 in Logan Utah. That is 54 years ago today.

On their wedding day, Dad hid the car so that it wouldn't be decorated. Unfortunately he left the marriage license in the car and ended up leading his brother & future Brothers in law to it. He always blamed the decorations for the car breaking down in Wyoming.

They started their marriage in East Lansing, MI

and later moved to Northborough, MA, where they raised their family.

Mom and Dad did a lot of things together.

They were the founding members of their local T.O.P.S. (take off pounds sensibly) club, and attended many conventions.

They attended family reunions for Mom's family.

They enjoyed time with friends.

Mom, Dad, Cynthia & Wes Bates

Mom & Dad with the Anderson Kids (their adopted grand kids).

They loved their children

and grandchildren

and especially each other.

They're together this year for their anniversary for the 1st time in 6 years.

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!!