I am so Grateful...

I have to say how grateful I am for a loving Heavenly Father and the fact that he loves us so much he gave us families to be a part of. I am so grateful for my family...they are so amazing and I love them so very much.

I am so grateful for a husband that loves the Lord, that loves me so much, and that loves his family. I am so grateful that he honors his priesthood and is willing to do as the Lord would have him do. I am so grateful that he gave two years of his life to teach the people of Germany the Gospel of Jesus Christ and that he has been such a great example to our children. I am so grateful for him sharing his missionary stories with our children and for the support that he is for Daniel on his mission and was for Michael on his. I am so grateful for the wonderful father that my husband is. The other day I found a journal that my sweet husband had started and in it he wrote about how he met me and the journey to our engagement. He wrote this 30 years ago...it was December 1979! I read it and it just made me feel so good to see what his thoughts were at that time in our life. It's so crazy to look back on 30 years of our life and all that has happened. I am so grateful to be where we are now and for all of the many experiences we have had and look forward to looking back on where we are in 30 years. :)

More to come...

I LOVE Monday's!!!

So...I have to say how much I LOVE Monday's now...I will for the next two years! :) I am so grateful for Monday's and being able to hear from my son so quickly. It is so wonderful to hear how he is growing and loving the Lord. I am so grateful for his choice to serve and his willingness to go and love the people of Chile even though it has been emotionally hard on him. Daniel is so wonderful and tells us how much he can feel the Lord's love and that's what makes it all worth it. I love the Gospel of Jesus Christ and I am so happy being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and wouldn't want to live my life any other way. I have been so blessed in my life and continue to be blessed.

I must say how grateful I am for all of my beautiful friends...they are such a blessing to me in my life. Near or far I love my friends and will be forever grateful for them all.

A Phone Call...

So I'm on the phone with Catherine and think it's Chuck calling home so switched over and there was a lady on the phone asking if this was the mom of Elder Oversby. I said yes and she said that she had just been in Chile and seen my son. I couldn't believe it! This sweet sister got the phone numbers from the elders so she could call the moms and tell them she saw their sons. I started to cry I was so happy that here was a mom that had just seen my sweet son. We talked for a while and I apologized for crying but she said it's okay, she was too and she didn't know why. :) I am so grateful for this sweet sister calling me today...it meant so very much to me. I never thought I would hear from someone from Daniel's mission and here this sweet sister called. She lives in Orange so it's not too far away and she had gone down to pick up her own sweet son from the mission. She told me how sweet the people are there and how warm hearted they are. She told me what a wonderful mission it is and it just confirmed what Chuck and I knew...that Daniel was sent where he needs to be where the people will open their hearts to him and he can open his heart to them. I know this is going to be an incredible experience for Daniel and am so happy for him.

Thank you Anne Olson for being so kind as to call a mom who is missing her missionary son. What a blessing!!!

I love hearing from Daniel

So...I got my first email from Daniel in Chile...it's so crazy that he is finally there. We waited for so long for him to actually get on his mission that it's so crazy he is finally in Chile and getting things done. I have been anxious to hear from him to see how he is doing and what he thinks of it there. I was also anxious to see where he was assigned to serve. He is doing very well and adjusting to his new environment.

I know that in such a short time this will be normal for him...living in Chile and teaching the Gospel. For now though, it's the strangeness of it all. He told me to count down by fast Sunday's so we officially have one down and 21 to go. I was so happy because I knew that I would hear from him today...it's just the best time of the week to get a message from my Daniel. He is just such a gentle giant of a man...he is my baby and he is so amazing! I am so proud of him and his willingness to do what is right. I am blessed in that my children all strive to do what is right...I am so grateful for all of them and the blessing they are to me.

On Friday night Chuck and I were at the Halloween Party at the church with the grandchildren. It was fun to see them all dressed up and having fun. When it was almost time to leave I stood up and had a strange pain in my left side...ovary area. Well...I thought maybe I pulled a muscle or something so figured it would go away. The stupid pain woke me up during the night Friday night and I still have the pain. I figured out it's probably my left ovary and I figure I might have a cyst that is acting up. I have been putting off calling the doctor even though Christina told me to. She is very worried about me. I finally figured out today that I have gained about 10 pounds the last few months without reason so maybe it's all related. I told the lady I work with about this and she told me to call the doctor too. So...I finally got a hold of the doctor and will be going in next Monday to get it checked, unless it gets worse then I'll get in sooner. When I first called they didn't have an opening until the 30th of November and I told them, "Uhhhh..that's not going to work." I had to explain more fully why I wanted to see the doctor so they are getting me in in a week. Whatever, I figure it's all okay and I will be fine. I always think that and don't like to go to the doctor because I don't want to be told it's because I'm so overweight or it's all in my head. lol...the pain really is in my abdomen, not in my head...lol

So...I had a nice time with Catherine today running a few errands. It's nice to spend some time with her. I love spending time with my girls...they are such a riot to be with!

Daniel is flying out tomorrow!

So my Daniel is flying out to Chile tomorrow morning. He will be flying down to LAX...just 1 1/2 hours from home...then on to Santiago and on to Concepcion. I can't believe the time is finally here where he will be leaving the United States to go to Chile to serve the Lord for the next 22 months. He is so amazing and has grown so much. He is a beautiful young man and I am so pleased and happy for him. I am so grateful that Daniel is willing to sacrifice these two years of his life to serve the Lord. I am so grateful that he knows this is the right thing to do and is willing to do it. This has been a hard journey for Daniel but he has done the right thing and is being blessed to know that he is. I can't wait to talk to him while he is at the airport tomorrow...just to hear his voice will be so wonderful! Then it's only 2 months more and I get to hear from him again.

I love you Daniel...forever and ever.

It's been a while...

So...it's been a while since I posted a message...I have been too busy sending letters to my son, Daniel, instead. I write to Daniel every day on dearelder.com. I read about another missionary mom sending her child a letter every day and I thought, what a good idea...so there it is...I've been doing it every day since he went in to the MTC. I can't believe it's almost time for him to leave the MTC. It's so exciting though as he will finally be able to be out in the field teaching the people of Chile about the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Daniel has grown so much and is making such wonderful strides. He went in scared and not sure if he could do this...and will be leaving the MTC a confident missionary, ready to bring the Gospel to the people of Chile. He is so amazing and I am so proud of him. I look forward to all of the wonderful stories that I will get to hear after he is in Chile. It's kind of nerve racking as he will be so far away but I know that my Heavenly Father is watching over him and will keep him safe as he does the work he was called to do. I wouldn't want Daniel anywhere else in this world than out serving my Heavenly Father. We promise to give our all and this is one of those things where I can say I have given my Heavenly Father my all in giving Him my son to preach for Him for two years.

We have Catherine living with us but it's working out great anyway. We consider ourselves empty nesters because Catherine lived on her own for 7 years and is living with us once again. I enjoy having Catherine around and am glad we can be here for her. She moved back to California and I haven't worried about her at all. When she was in Utah I constantly worried about her...it's good to have her back here.

Michael is doing great in Utah at BYU but I don't worry about him at all. He is such a great young man and working so hard to keep his grades up. I'm so proud of him and the great job he is doing also.

I love my family so much!

Happy Birthday my Sister!

So today is my big sister, Janet's, birthday. Happy Birthday Janet...I love you!!! Janet is eight years older than me and basically helped raise me. Janet is the oldest in the family of five and my other sister is only 15 months older...so Janet's help was so needed with a 15 month old and then twins. I love my sister Janet and used to call her mom as a small child. She is so awesome and I hope she has the happiest birthday ever!

I love Thursdays because I get to hear from my Daniel. He is doing such a great job in the missionary training center and I am so proud of him and the growth I have already seen. He is learning so much that I could never teach him. I have been busy writing to my Daniel every day so he knows we love him and think of him every day so I haven't gotten a chance to blog lately. I can't believe it's almost time for Daniel to be out in the mission field. I am so happy for him though because he said it's like groundhog day in the MTC for 2 months. He is going to have so many wonderful experiences on his mission along with lots of challenges. Without the challenges you can't enjoy the happy times so it's all good. I know that my Heavenly Father is watching over him and Daniel is learning things that will stay with him the rest of his life. I am so happy he is serving the Lord for the next two years and will be even happier when it's all done! :) It's such a blessing to have him serve.

My family is everything to me and I love them all so much!

It's Friday...

So here it is Friday and I am so looking forward to the weekend. I am looking forward to doing what I want and a few that I don't...but I am looking forward to spending time with my sweetheart.

I have been writing to my son, Daniel, every day and I figure it's a good thing as it is a good way to journal. Daniel tells us in his letters to keep the daily letters coming as it helps him too so I am happy to oblige. I love reading at how much Daniel is growing...I miss him quite a bit too. I'm glad that my heart is doing better but I know I will always have moments in the next two years when it's hard...but I am grateful for this time I have to feel this way because it means that my dear son is doing what he is supposed to do. I an so grateful to him for his willingness to serve the Lord and do what his father, brother, grandfathers, uncle, and cousins have done before him.

My family is such a blessing to me. I am so grateful for them.

Sunday

So here it is Sunday...it's been a good day so far. Church was good and I am happy to be home. We are relaxing and then we will be going to Christina and Ray's to visit and see the grandchildren. They are so much fun to be with. Ariana is so excited to have us come over...I just love spending time with her. I will have to make sure I take the UNO game so that I can play that with her. She loves to play UNO...she's so cute!

On Friday I went to Disneyland with Christina, Ray, Alex, Ariana, and Camden. It was so much fun but oh so crowded!!! I couldn't believe how crowded the place was and it was cooling off but it was still so muggy. Wow...what a time that was. I LOVED being there with my family but I hate the crowds that were there. We had a very good time but the lines were horrible and the crowds were so large but it was still good to be together. Alex had been wanting to go on the Toy Story ride so that's the first thing we did. Then dinner and then over to the other park to go on another ride. Alex wanted to go on Buzz Lightyear so we got a fast pass and went over to go on Small World. We waited in line and finally got to enjoy that one and then back to Buzz. That was also fun but the lines were so bad we decided it was better to go ahead and leave and not worry about the fireworks show so we got in the very crowded line to leave. Boy, that was an experience...getting through with a double and single stroller...fun times! :) We were just so glad when we could get out of the madness and head for home. The kids were so tired and so were we but it was all good.

So on Saturday I was absolutely DEAD from Disneyland so all I could do was sleep and sit around...no energy whatsoever...lol I'm glad to finally have gotten enough sleep and it was great to go to church and home again. I look forward to going to see the grandkids and Christina and Ray...that's the best end to a Sunday afternoon.

The Wedding...and other things

So...on Saturday we went to the wedding of our friends daughter, Kay...and it was something else. We got there early so Chuck could take some pictures of the decorations and all. I got a seat and Chuck went around taking pictures. I found the seats to be at an incline so we were all a bit nervous about sitting down...if we toppled over we would take out the people on the other side of the aisle! :) That was interesting...but it was great seeing some people that I know that I hadn't seen for a while.

The wedding was about an hour but they started when they could. The groom comes out after his groomsmen and there are all of Kay's brothers behind him carrying shotguns. It was pretty funny and they were enjoying themselves with it. Greg, the groom, likes camoflouage so that was incorporated in the wedding decorations so having the brothers with the shotguns was a funny touch. Kay came out with her dad and said how happy she was that Greg showed up. :) The wedding got done and then on to pictures. Unfortunately, during the pictures a guy friend of Kay's gave her some Grey Goose Vodka (I don't know anything about alcohol) and she came out for the reception totally smashed!!! She hadn't eaten all day and this vodka wasn't a good idea. She later said she didn't want any hard alcohol at the wedding but the wedding place had it for people to purchase. So...the reception was so different...I have never been to a reception where the bride was drunk and I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. I felt so bad for my friends, Chuck and Elaine. They were pretty embarrassed and all I could do was sit and reassure them it was okay and we still love them and Kay. Oh well...this is what happened so we got through it and helped stay to clean up and got things taken care of before it was even supposed to be finished. The guests were leaving in droves as so many were unsure of what to say or do and were uncomfortable...it was pretty hard to see.

So...on Sunday we went to our friends house after stake conference to give them some moral support and they invited us to some lunch (food from the reception) and Kay came in. She looked so sheepish and so embarrassed and was ready to cry. She apologized and we told her we love her and she was so apologetic. She said she doesn't remember anything and that is the saddest thing of all...she doesn't remember her beautifully decorated reception with all of the family and friends there and all of the memories she should have as a new bride. She knows it is her fault and takes responsibility for it. I feel so bad for her but yet know that it's good she realizes what she did...we all learn from our mistakes, right?

So...Elaine and I went to Disneyland on Monday with Catherine. I figured Elaine needed to get out and relax and quit thinking about what happened on Saturday. We had a great time and I got my season pass since I'm not going for a full-time job anymore. Today I am so EXHAUSTED! It was so much fun but I am wiped out! :)

I must say how grateful I am for my daughters and their good choices they are making. There are good times to concentrate on from Saturday and I told Kay to remember them...that's what matters. I think it will be so wonderful when Kay and Gregg go to the temple some day...I pray that will happen sooner than later. There is so much that happened on Saturday but it's not for me to go into all of the happenings...just know that the wedding ceremony was the sweetest and I am grateful for that memory to overshadow all of the others.

I am adjusting to my Daniel being gone on his mission and I know that he is adjusting too. I think that's why my heart is calmer...at least I hope that's why. I am grateful to Daniel for his willingness to serve even though this is the hardest thing he has ever done. He is so AMAZING to me!

It's a Saturday...and a Wedding Day

So...here it is Saturday and my friend's daughter, Kay Cripps, is getting married. I am so happy for her and her new husband. We will be enjoying the wedding and reception in Wrightwood at the Wrightwood Guest Ranch. I guess the guest ranch isn't a very good company and I would warn anyone wanting to use their services, but hopefully everything will work out for the bride and groom today. I do look forward to going and being a guest at the wedding and reception though.

I interviewed for another full-time job yesterday and went through so much emotion knowing I probably didn't get the job. So...last night I got a blessing and was told that I am not supposed to be working full time...my focus is to be on my family. It's such a good reminder to know where my focus is to be, and it's not on making money. That's my husbands job...to make the money...so I help in my part-time job and know that I am doing what I am supposed to. I have decided no more interviewing for me...I'm not trying for another full-time job unless the spirit yells at me that I'm supposed to, and I don't see that happening. lol So...I told Catherine that we would go to Disneyland on Monday and I will purchase a season pass if I didn't get the job so guess what, we are going to Disneyland! I get off at 11:30 am now so I have plenty of time to go and play at Disneyland so that's what I am going to do. I got birthday money from my in-laws and dad and his wife so I decided that was a great way to use the money...lol...it will be so much fun! :) I am really looking forward to going and doing this.

My Daniel is doing so great and working so hard on being a good and dutiful missionary. I am so proud of him and the work and sacrifice he is willing to do. I know he will be a fantastic missionary and is being sent to Chile to touch people's lives that may otherwise not have been touched. So...I continue to write to my Daniel every day and pray for him every day. It is such a blessing having him in the mission field and yes, I am counting down, but I wouldn't want him anywhere else than where he is. As much as I have missed him I would HATE it if he was home...he is where he is supposed to be and I am so grateful for him and this gospel.

So Chuck is enjoying the BYU football game today and then we are off to the wedding and reception. It is a good day!

I got a letter from my son!!!

So...here it is Thursday and Daniel's p-day and we got our email. I am so thrilled!!! I LOVE t hear from him...he makes my heart soar...he is so AMAZING! He is doing so great and adjusting...I am so proud of him.

Check out his letter at missionsite.net/danieloversby

Daniel is doing so great and working hard and it's all I could ask of him. I make sure he gets his letters and encourage him as much as I can. He's doing so wonderful and he loves to hear from people...it's all great.

I Miss my Daniel!!!

So...I haven't written in a little while...I've been busy sending letters to my missionary son, Daniel, through dearelder.com. lol

I write to Daniel every day...I don't want to miss a day...and sometimes I write to him twice. :) I am dealing with my emotions and my missing my dear son. I know that Daniel is where he is supposed to be. I am so grateful to him for being willing to sacrifice his life as he knows it to go and serve the Lord for the next two years. We discussed this before he left and how he felt like it was forever and I explained to him that it is only two years and not that much time that is required of him, especially compared to the amount of time we are given on this earth. We never know how long we will be here but we owe everything to our Heavenly Father so it's a wonderful thing when a young man or young woman choose to serve. So...I write to Daniel every day and encourage him and make sure he knows how much he is loved.

So...my birthday was September 3rd and my dear friend, Elaine, went to Disneyland with me for it. This year you get to go to Disneyland for free on your birthday and I thought this would be a lot of fun. I wanted to be adults only so Christina couldn't come with me with the grandkids...Catherine had to work...so Elaine and I went together. You can only choose one park so I chose California Adventures. The attendant questioned if this was the park I wanted to go to but yes, this is where I wanted to go so Elaine and I went in. We took our time...went on a few rides...called Christina and got the first email from Daniel read to me on the phone while I sat there crying...and wandered around some more. It was such a fun day and I am so glad that I went and that my good friend Elaine was with me. We ended up getting home at 9:30 but it was such a wonderful birthday, especially hearing from Daniel...that was the icing on the cake, or so I thought! So...the next day we got the mail and there were letters from Daniel along with a birthday card for me from him. Oh my gosh...I sat and read his card and letters and just cried some more. It was so amazing to be able to hear from my son.

On the 4th we had a family celebration where we met Christina, Ray, the kids, and Catherine at Olive Garden for dinner. It was a delicious dinner and then we went over to Christina and Ray's for cake. Ariana, Alex, and Camden made a wall banner for me that said "Happy Birthday" and it was so neat! I loved the drawing that they did on it. They did a great job for grandma. We just sat around and visited and had such a nice time. I had a wonderful birthday and got lots of cards and all day at Disneyland I was wished a Happy Birthday...it was such a great day.

Well...I miss my Daniel, and that's okay. It's okay to miss my Daniel even knowing that he is where he is supposed to be. I look forward to these two years being over but I also look forward to the journey and the growth that we will all go through. I love the Gospel and I love being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I love it that my son is continuing in following the examples of his father and brother in serving a mission. I love the Lord and I love my family and am so glad that we can be together forever!

Today...Sunday...

I finally figured out why it is so hard for Chuck and I with Daniel being gone on his mission. It's because he is the baby and there are no other children to worry about so our thoughts turn to him more than they did when Michael was gone and Daniel was the only one home. So...it's good to understand that I am normal and it's all okay and it's okay for me to feel the way I do. It's just so much harder than it was with Michael and I'm glad to finally understand why. I just can hardly wait to hear from Daniel and hear how things are going for him and how he is growing and adjusting to being on a mission. He was so sad to leave too and I am told that is normal...he isn't any different than the other young men that reported. The elder that was his host when he got there said that he cried his eyes out when his parents dropped him off too...that was good to hear.

So today was church and it was so strange to not have our Daniel with us. We are both so proud of him and so glad he is where he is but we have to adjust to all of this too and we are...just takes some time.

The smoke outside is horrible. There is a fire on the other side of the mountain range and the smoke is killing us here. I had to leave the swamp cooler on last night and the house is very cold but it helped to keep some of the smoke out so we can breathe. I feel for the people that are living closer to it...it's pretty bad...just have to wait for the brave firefighters to get this under control and pray for them that they will be safe while they do it.

Daniel is at the MTC

So...we dropped Daniel off on the 26th at the MTC. I must say it wasn't the easiest thing to do but it is exactly where we want him to be. We got there to the MTC and parked in the upper parking lot where the attendant told us to park wherever we wanted and take our time. We walked to the entrance of the MTC and took some pictures. It was something I really wanted...some pictures with Daniel at the MTC.

All Missionaries...Michael, Daniel, and Dad!

Michael/Oregon Portland, Daniel/Chile Concepcion South, Dad/Germany Munich

When we were done we walked back to the car so we could drive Daniel down to the drop off area.



We said our final goodbyes for 2 years and had to go back and pick up our things and head to home. It was a 10 hour drive and we got home at 12:30 am but it was so worth it. Chuck's and my hearts are hurting and we are missing Daniel like crazy but it's where he has to be and where we have raised him to be...we are so proud of Daniel and love him so much. He will be a wonderful missionary.

Family Time

So we got together with my side of the family tonight and had a great time. It was so wonderful to bring food together, eat and sit and relax and visit. I love my family and really appreciate my twin brother, David, for hosting this for me at his house. He and Janna are so sweet and always willing to help out...thanks David and Janna, you two are AWESOME!

Aunt Janna, Uncle David, and Daniel

It was great to have my family celebrate Daniel going out on his mission. My sister, Viki, has her son on his mission to Taiwan so Daniel is the 4th grandson to go serve a mission. Considering my brothers never served it's pretty awesome to see the grandsons stepping up to the plate to serve the Lord. They are all so wonderful.

It was just a great time and I sure love my family and was so happy to spend some time with them.

Stephanie, Daniel, Arolyn, Michael

Aunt Viki and Daniel
Daniel with Uncle Jerry and Aunt Janet

Daniel with his Grandpa Shell and Grandma Colleen

We are in Utah with Daniel

So...here we are...in Utah with Daniel getting ready to drop him off at the MTC in a few days. He was set apart on Friday after which we had a birthday party for Camden who is turning 2 on Monday. When it was time to leave the tears flowed for Daniel had to say goodbye to his sister, brother-in-law, Alex, Ariana, and Camden. That was so hard for him as it is so hard to say goodbye to the kids. Earlier in the day Camden told Daniel "Don't go away"...Daniel had been telling the kids that he was leaving for a while and wouldn't be seeing them. The kids were pretty confused because he was staying...but when it was actually time to leave Alexander actually started to cry, he knows so much more than we realize! We feel that he realizes it will be a while since he sees Daniel as he was crying and saying he would miss Daniel. So Daniel ended up having to drive a car home and cry and deal with his emotions, hard night to say the least.

Then Saturday morning dawns and I go in and tell him to get up and he doesn't want to...lol...he wants to stay! Well, that's not an option so he finally got up and got packed and quite a bit later we finally were on our way to Utah. Hearts are tender right now but Daniel has gotten a blessing and we know without a doubt that this is what he is to be doing and he will get through this. The trials come before the blessings so we get to endure our little trial right now. :) It's just hard because he is the baby and has never left home. This is so good for him though as it will help him to become the man that he needs to be and I know that my Heavenly Father is watching over him and will take care of him on his mission. He has special men that are assigned from the other side to help him and watch over him and he will do GREAT!

So...here we are planning on seeing family and some friends and get Daniel fully ready for the MTC. It's wet up here so it's humid and hot but we intend to enjoy the next few days to the fullest. Family is the best and the Gospel is worth sacrificing for and living and we will go on and get through the tender moments and enjoy all of the moments together. I love the Lord and am so grateful that my sweet Daniel is willing to serve Him and do as he has been asked to do. I know that the people of Chile are in for a treat when Daniel gets to go and serve with them. What fun experiences await. I just will be glad when we are done with this trial...lol

Daniels Farewell

So today was Daniels farewell. He spoke in church on Obedience. Sister Rasmussen and Brother Turner were the two that spoke with him. They had a confirmation for two young girls who were baptized last night so the meeting took a bit longer than planned on. So by the time Daniel was to speak it was time for the meeting to be finished. We sang one verse of the practice hymn and then the bishopric told Daniel to go ahead and give his talk. Daniel gave a wonderful talk and the meeting ran over by 10 to 15 minutes. It was worth it though as all of the talks were very good.

Then this afternoon we had an open house for Daniel from 2 to 4 pm. Daniel wasn't sure anyone would even come but we had a houseful of people. Catherine took pictures of those that were here and it was just so nice to have so many people come to wish Daniel well as he gets ready to leave for the next two years. I think he was very please and surprised to see all of the support that he really has from the members of the ward. I am so glad that I went ahead and had this open house for Daniel...he is such a great young man and I am so proud of him.

So...that was our day...very busy with lots of good friends. I am so blessed and I appreciate what my Heavenly Father has given me so much. I am so grateful for children that honor their testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ, that know and love Him and will do whatever He asks of them. I have a testimony of the Lord, Jesus Christ, and my Heavenly Father. I love Them so much. I am so grateful for my wonderful family and friends. I am blessed with the challenges that come with the blessings but I know that with my Heavenly Fathers help I can get through anything.

Daniel going on a mission is one of those challenges and blessings. It is something that I have always wanted my sons to do, serve honorable missions for this church, but it is still hard to let them go for two years to places we have never been. I wouldn't want Daniel anywhere else though and am so glad that he has chosen to serve for the next two years. I have set up a missionary site blog so that our friends and family can keep in touch with what he is doing on his mission.

A Wedding and Reception

So tonight was Janae Demke's wedding and reception. She married her long time boyfriend, Barndon Wolfe, and the ceremony was at the house and backyard. Ginger had it decorated very pretty and did a good job on a limited budget. Janae wore an off-white halter style gown with a butterfly in her hair which she had long and curled. She was a beautiful bride and it is so crazy that she is old enough to be married. The absence of Jared was very much felt this evening. Joseph and Jedi walked Janae down the aisle and gave her away along with Ginger. I thought that was a nice touch to have the two boys give her away too. Janae was married by a pastor as her new husband is Catholic and she is a less-active LDS so they went with a non denominational pastor. They read their own vows and the pastor never did call them husband and wife but that's what they are now.

Janae married into a very nice family that is very good to her (Ginger was telling me this) and she and her new husband will be living in Victorville in the house that his family helped them to buy. It's cheaper than rent and they have a place of their own. She was very happy and it was so great to see them and visit with the other friends of ours that were there. The party was in full swing when we left so they were all having a fun time. It is so different to go to a wedding and have the alcohol that people feel is essential at it. But...not my concern...just hard when I saw Joseph smashed from the alcohol he consumed...it's hard to see the choices that are made. His choice though, right?

I love that family so much...sometimes it's hard to see choices that are made but I love them no matter what. So...that's what happened tonight and then we came home to make sure the house is picked up so we can have an open house for Daniel here tomorrow afternoon so he can say goodbye to ward members as he leaves on his mission the 26th and we are leaving next Saturday to take him up to Utah.

Well...off to bed...

School has started...again...and time is flying by!

It is so hard to believe that school has started once again. I swear the years are flying by! This year is special because my grandson, Alex, has started Kindergarten! I can't believe he is old enough to be in kindergarten but he is. Ariana has also started pre-school and that's just too crazy too. When did they get so old as to be ready for school? I am so excited for the both of them though and I know that they will LOVE going to school, they already do. Alex loved pre-school last year and will love being in kindergarten this year.

I know that every year I am amazed that school is starting and equally amazed when it's the end of the year and school is over. It goes so quickly, especially the older I get the faster time seems to fly.

Speaking of time flying, Camden is going to be 2 years old on the 24th and he is so tall it seems like he should be turning 3 or 4! He's such an amazing little guy, like his brother and sister are so amazing....but he's growing so quickly also. So much fun these grandchildren!

Daniel is leaving on his mission in like 13 days now. I can't believe that one either, like I said, time is flying! I am so excited for him and the new experiences that await him. I will miss him like crazy but wouldn't want him anywhere else than where he will be...serving the Lord for the next two years of his life. I know that he is nervous as he is such a homebody but I know he will do an amazing job and will serve the Lord well. I love you Daniel!

Michael is up in Alpine living at his grandparents until he can get in his dorm room and has been able to get financial aid for BYU so he's all good with that. What a blessing for him to get some grants to pay for his education. I am so proud of him and his good hard work.

My birthday is coming oh so quickly also...I am planning on going to Disneyland for that day...it will be fun and free since it will be my birthday, yippee!!!

Fun times ahead.

It's Friday!

So, it's Friday and I have really enjoyed the last 2 days of work. I LOVE working the morning shift...it is so AWESOME! I LOVE having my afternoons free...I'll take this as long as I can. I get off and get to spend time with my husband and son, so cool! Today we went and saw Harry Potter and we really enjoyed the movie. We watched the previous movies at home and then went to this one and thought it was very good. We are looking forward to the final movies now.

The bad news is that my grandchildren have been sick for the last few weeks. Camden now has croup and bronchitis, so scary. I guess yesterday he was coughing and got to be a tinge of blue so Christina being the good mommy she is took him to the urgent care. So scarey! Ariana and Camden have been running a fever since Sunday so Ari is still running her fever, not as high, but not coughing like Camden. Alex had the fever and vomited twice first week then Ari got the fever and vomiting a bit more and Camden got the fever and croup and bronchitis. So...poor Christina has been dealing with sick babies for a couple of weeks now. She's hanging in there and is such a good mommy...but this sure is hard to get through. This too shall pass and I will be glad when all of my precious grandbabies are all well. School starts next week for Alex (kindergarten) and Ariana (pre-k) so they need to be all well by next Thursday. So exciting for them to go to school. They are so excited too.

So, I get to enjoy the weekend with my husband as Daniel has a YSA conference to go to so it will be a fun weekend!

A few Days Off

So...I am enjoying a few days off from summer school until I start regular work on Thursday. The time is going so quickly and I can't believe it's almost time to begin regular work once again. I am grateful for the work though as it is a paycheck...that helps to pay the bills. Chuck is going to be off a bit more this month than we thought so any money we can get is good right now. It is all okay, just stressful.

It's been a fun few days. My niece, Nikki, flew in on Friday and has stayed with us until today. It was so much fun to play games in the evening with Nikki at Christina and Ray's home. Catherine was there too and we laughed so much...playing "Apples to Apples" was just a fun time. We got together and played on Friday and Saturday night and the everyone came to our house. Nikki was gone though and got back right when Christina and Ray and the kids were leaving but I still enjoyed visiting with Nikki. I'm sure her family is so happy to get her back this evening but I wish she could have stayed a day or so longer. It was a fun weekend though and now I get to spend the next few days enjoying Chuck and Daniel.

Daniel reports to the MTC in 23 days...it is going way too quickly but I knew that it would. He's starting to think of it as an adventure he's going to be going on and that's a good thing. He is going to be a fantastic missionary and will have some wonderful experiences in Chile. He is such an incredible young man and I am so proud of him. I will miss Daniel so much, I missed Michael too, but I wouldn't want him anywhere else but serving the Lord for the next two years. Some fun times are ahead, that's for sure. I thought we would have an empty nest to get used to but our daughter, Catherine, is living with us for the time being so we will have the joy of having her here while Daniel is gone.

Well...gotta get some things done around the house and enjoy my husbands company.

So Much is happening

So...since I last blogged I have been so busy! I started out summer school thinking how hard it was going to be to work 8 hours a day and try to get things done at home. I was right. It was hard at first and then I have gotten used to it, just in time for it to end! Yeah, it happens every year, I've been working summer school for about 11 years now, maybe a year or two less. Anyway, I have two days of summer school left and I am very happy about that. I work summer school to help pay the bills and it does help. We are hoping to be able to not have to work summer school before retirement, but we'll see what happens.

Anyway...my days have been busy with working all day and by the time I get home I don't want to do too much. I have some errands I have had to run and then home to spend time with the family before I have to go to bed at 9:00 pm. I couldn't stay up too late as I have been getting up at 5:45 am but I'm getting used to it but am looking forward to sleeping in for the week that I have off before I go back to my regular job at school police. It's all good and I am so blessed to have this job.

Today was a fun day. Chuck and Daniel got ready to go to Palm Desert for a teachers conference that Chuck is going to so I decided that I was going to go out and do something for me. I finally figured out that I wanted to get a pedicure and called Christina to go with me. She wanted a manicure and we went to the spa that Catherine works at. My feet are so dry and needed to be treated so badly...and I'm so glad that I went and got this done. I love my pedi and it was so relaxing. The spa is so nice and it was just a pleasant experience.

Catherine is turning 27 on Monday, the 27th. I can't believe it...so I went ahead and paid for a pedi for her but she'll have to get hers before she starts work on Tuesday. Something to look forward to though.

So I got the pedi and Christina got the mani and then I got to go and watch my beautiful grandchildren while she and Ray went on a date. It was so much fun being with my grandchildren. I got the kids Uno game and Alex LOVED playing it. Ariana loves playing the adult game but Alex LOVED the kids game. Aunt Catherine played with us and it was just so much fun. I so LOVE spending time with my grandchildren, they are so beautiful, all three of them!

Well, Chuck and Daniel are going to have a good time in their 4 star hotel this weekend and Catherine and I are going to have a good time together here at home. Gotta get to bed as I have church in the morning but I am so grateful for my many blessings. Life can have it's challenges but it is full of blessings too.

One week down...2 1/2 more to go...

So I got through my first week of summer school...full time days...and boy, am I glad it's a Friday evening and I get a whole weekend to relax. I have to be up at 5:45 am and at work by 7 and get off at 3:30 pm...it makes for a long day. I am more used to my 3 1/2 hour work days so full time is a different experience...but I am so grateful for this experience. It's only for about 4 weeks so it's all good. I will get one week off before I am back again to work but this year I get to work the morning shift and be off by 11:30 am instead of going to work at 11:30. I just hope it doesn't change, which it shouldn't. Anyway...it's been a good week and I am glad to have a weekend to relax once again...at least I have the next 2 days and tonight of course. :) Off to spend time with my husband, yippee!

Life has been so Crazy!

Life has been so good, hectic, and crazy.

So...we went on our cruise, I blogged a little about that. We had such a nice time on the cruise and our day in Ensenada was quite enjoyable. We got into Ensenada on Saturday and got off the ship. We were trying to decide what to do and took a bus into town, it was $2 each to get the ride instead of walking the 10 to 15 minutes. So on the bus they told us that we could get tickets to go to El Bufadora (the blow hole) for $15 each instead of the $30 each it would have cost us on the ship. We decided that was a good idea and went for the tour. We were excited to go and see a little of the countryside of Ensendada so got on the next boat for the tour. A man with a guitar was on there entertaining us until the bus was full enough for us to leave. He was great in his singing and having those of us on the bus sing along with him...it was funny. We got to to to the blow hole and see some of Ensenada, that was fun. After you get to the blow hole you have to go through all of the makeshift shops to see it and run the "gauntlet" of people trying to give you their fliers and get you to come back to their shops. It was crazy, especially the closer you get to the blow hole. We had about 1 1/2 hours there to see the water spray up out of the blow hole and then go back through the street and worse "gauntlet" of people back to the bus. I was very proud of myself because I didn't take one flier that was being passed out and anyone that invited me into their store I politely refused. We eventually went into two stores and Chuck almost bought a plate but the guy didn't want to go down until we left and then he was saying lower and lower prices...we didn't go back. I ended up buying a little dolly that was dressed in Mexican garb and is a rag doll and figured that was a good souvenier for me. We waited for the alotted time to board the bus and went back to town and then back to the ship. I have to say that I felt like we were a part of a dream where tons of people are tempting you here and there and we were trying to keep a hold of the iron rod and stay on the straight and narrow. It was pretty surreal to feel that but that's what it seemed like. I HATE it when there are crowds of people like that trying to tempt you into their space and I didn't want to go there. Just an observation.

Anyway...we got on the boat and went to get some food before dinner time...little snack. We enjoyed the shows on the ship and enjoyed a lazy day on board the ship for Father's Day. It was just so pleasant to go and relax and spend all of my time and attention on my sweet husband. He loved it because there were no phones for me to be on...lol. Then on Monday we docked and Michael was almost there when he got on the wrong freeway and was desparately trying to figure out how to turn around and get back where we were waiting for him. It was pretty scary for him being in unknown territory but he did a great job and with prayer was able to find his way to the dock where we were waiting.

We got home and as I blogged about before changed clothes and left again. When we stopped in Mesquite we got to see Christina, Ray, and the kids and got dinner, slept, then got up and went again. It was nice to get to Utah and know that we had a place to stay for a week before we left again and enjoyed our time there.

As I blogged up through Thursday I figured I would finish the trip and what's been going on. Friday we got to go to the Timpanogas Temple with Mom and Dad, Cindy and Rolly and Daniel. That was a great thing to do...being in the temple with family is just so awesome. We got to take names through for my brother-in-law...he has thousands of family names that he is trying to get done. He's been a busy boy with his geneology. Then we went home and changed and I got to go out with my two sisters. We met for lunch and then went to a movie...I LOVED that too. We are trying to spend some time together, just us girls, and it has been so much fun. My sister, Viki, was having a hard day and by the end of our visit she seemed to be very happy...I'm so glad she came and we could all have fun together. I love being around my sisters when we can have fun and laughter together.

Saturday we decided to go to BYU as Chuck and Ray wanted to go to the bookstore and we wanted to see where Michael would be living up there in just a few months. We had fun and took it easy and met the family at Olive Garden in American Fork for lunch. That evening I got to play some UNO with my Ray, Rolly, and Cindy...it was so much fun. I'm so glad we got to have some fun together like this.

Sunday was church time and after it was over I went off to finish seeing my friend Penny, my brother David and his wife Janna and their kids, and then my dad and Colleen. Catherine and her friend Kristi came with me while everyone else stayed home and visited. Once again I had so much fun.

Monday we got up and packed and were off to home again. We had a lot of fun in Mesquite once again and got home about 3:30 on Tuesday afternoon. It was just a fun trip.

Once home I was exhausted. I got to try to get caught up after being gone for over a week and get ready for work the next day. We had to go and pick up the dishwasher we had bought right before we left for our cruise (our dishwasher pooped out on us). We got it home and Chuck waited for it to cool off before trying to install it. I have to say what a GREAT guy he is...he worked so hard for like 4 hours to get that dishwasher installed...it had so many challenges and he got through them all (I was praying for help for him the entire time) and he did so great. I love the new dishwasher and it is amazing how the dishes come out clean without the food or film on them, quite amazing.

Thursday was work at summer school where I stayed busy the entire time...the day flew. Friday Chuck had to get the cooler fixed...the house was so HOT...once again he proved how Genious he is and was able to take care of the cooler and now our house is actually COOL! How novel is that? :)

Our 4th of July we went swimming at Aunt Judi's in Glendora and visited with Grandma Vera and had such a nice time. Some of us got a bit burned but not too horrible. Then we came home for pizza and were too tired to go to the fireworks show. Daniel was more bummed than he admitted and now I feel guilty we didn't go and see them but I can't change it now. All in all...a good time though.

I am so grateful for my husband and his fixing all of these things and so grateful to my Heavenly Father for blessing him to know what to do. Life is full and challenging and I am loving it that it's a Sunday and we get to relax and enjoy a Sunday afternoon. Now to Christina and Rays for dinner tonight...even better.

I am grateful for the independance we have to enjoy our days like we do and the freedoms we have.

Our Cruise and now Utah

So we went on our cruise on our 29th wedding anniversary. It was so AMAZING and everything I had hoped for! We had some really nice couples that we sat with at dinner and our waiter had the table sing "Happy Anniversary" to us and made us kiss the whole time, if we stopped they would have to start over. lol We were a bit embarrassed about the whole kissing thing, it seemed to go on forever and these strangers didn't really care that we were kissing like that. Anyway...we had such a great time and it was so relaxing. The food was good and we ate way too much. Way too plentiful...but we enjoyed ourselves and spending time together. It was so awesome!

Then we got home on that Monday and were home for about 1 1/2 hours while we switched clothing in our suitcase and left again for Utah. We stopped in Mesquite, Nevada to stay the night and got to our in-laws on Tuesday.

On Wednesday we went and got Daniel's missionary clothing at Mr. Mac. I have to say that I have been doing pretty good except for that experience really got me going. We got the suits and shoes taken care of and then went off to get Daniel his missionary scriptures and his missionary journal. While we were at the Deseret Book I just got to feeling so emotional about everything, it was suddenly so real...I was tearing up and trying not to. Chuck told me later he went and sat in a corner and had an emotional moment by himself also, so I know it wasn't just me. It was so great to get Daniel his clothing and know that we are getting prepared along with him for him to go and serve. I wouldn't want Daniel anywhere else for these next 2 years and Chuck and I have both told him that he isn't to come home until the 2 years are over with...no matter how homesick he gets, he is to go and do the Lord's work and lose himself in it. He will do an amazing job, I know that! He is such a great young man and will be an amazing missionary.

So here it is Thursday and we've been taking it easy today. Chuck took the grandkids fishing along with their parents and Christina, Ray, and the kids came home early with sunburns (Christina is the worst with Ariana having a small one) and Chuck and Rolly stayed up there. So...quiet day today and tomorrow I get to go and spend time with my sisters and see my twin brother...good times.

I am so thankful to be here though. My father-in-law has Alzheimers and we are spending as much time with him as we can while he still remembers us. It is so hard to watch him as he heads down hill...he is such a great man. We just keep on keeping on and praying for mom to have the strength she needs while she takes such loving care of dad. He has his bad days and his good days and this disease will progress at it's rate but for now we just let him know we love him as much as we can.

Such a weird day though with two more stars dying so close in time to each other. Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. We were wondering who the third one would be when we saw that Farrah had finally succumbed to her cancer and it was a shock to see Michael Jackson was it. Life happens and I wish their families the comfort that they will need at this sad time. I am so grateful for the gospel and the knowledge that we have of being a forever family. It sure helps to know these things especially at times like this.

On to having fun with my grandchildren...I have been enjoying them this evening so much while Christina and Ray went out for a while. I love my family so much!

Cruise and my 29th Wedding Anniversary

Chuck and I get to go on our cruise tomorrow...we are both so excited. It's even nicer because it's our 29th wedding anniversary tomorrow also so we get to celebrate that on the cruise ship. We are so looking forward to our 3 day cruise and know that we will have wished it was longer but are so grateful that we can go for these 3 days. It's Chuck's birthday gift from May, our anniversary gift, and my birthday gift in September. It seemed like a great idea for gifts and we get to spend the time together and just enjoy each others company. I just love to spend time with my husband when it is the two of us and we are so happy together. This is my second cruise and Chuck's third but we look forward to many more over the years.

Then after we get home on Monday we change suitcases and go up to Utah to get Daniel his missionary clothing and items he will need. I look forward to visiting with our families up there and Christina and Ray will be coming up with the kids too. Michael will be home to take care of things so it's all good. Michael is planning on moving up to Utah the middle of July so he'll be up there soon enough also. He will be living with his grandparents until he can get in his dorm room at BYU and start school there in the fall. I'm so proud of Michael for earning his AA at VVC and heading on to do something with medicine. He says he wants to go to med school and become a doctor...it's all his choice and I encourage him in whatever will make him the happiest as he works for a family someday. The most important thing is that he likes what he chooses to do...that's all I ask of him, to make sure it's something he will enjoy doing.

Well...off to get some packing done and get ready for our fun times ahead.

All of the Priesthood Holders...they are so COOL!

The guys started to goof around...it was so funny...

All Priesthood Holders...such great examples!

Pics from Daniel's Temple Day

Here are some pics I thought I would share from Daniels Temple Day...it was wonderful!

June 6, 2009

Friends that came to the temple for Daniel...so awesome! The Shaws, Elaine Cripps, Kathryn Tait, Dyerly's, and Bishop Ewing.

Not shown are the Haskins and Stouts that were also in the session.

We are so grateful for these wonderful friends coming to the temple for Daniel.

He wanted them all here.

Redlands Temple

All of us and Grandpa and Grandma Colleen Shell (down from Utah)



We are family...forever!

The weather was cool and it was a wonderful day.

My 29th Wedding Anniversary and a Cruise!

It is so awesome to think that we leave on our cruise in about 5 days. I am so excited! I will have been married for 29 years on Friday and Chuck and I get to go and celebrate on a cruise ship...so much FUN!!! I am so looking forward to the relaxation that we will experience on the cruise, away from everything except for each other, wow, so great!

Chuck and I have been married for 29 years and boy, it seems like yesterday when we got married. I remember when I was that 18 year old girl and marrying the man of my dreams. We were newlyweds and I saw a couple come into church with their 3 or 4 children and I thought how someday that would be us. It seemed like it would be forever, and here we are...4 grown children and 3 wonderful grandchildren. I am so blessed in my husband, my children, my son-in-law, and my grandchildren. I know that more blessings will come as my other children marry and begin families of their own.

I know that Chuck and I have had our ups and downs, every marriage does, but I am grateful that we have both decided to work through our issues and find the happiness that we now have. It's a lot of hard work, marriage is, but it's worth it. I want to spend forever with my husband and my children and I am so blessed that we are a "Forever Family". I love the Lord and I am so grateful to Him for the many blessings he has given me.

Now I am waiting to send my sweet Daniel, my youngest, off on his mission to serve the Lord for 2 years. I am so proud of him for wanting to serve the Lord. This is what I have wished and hoped for since he was born. I am proud of Michael for serving the Lord first and setting the example and now I am proud of Daniel for wanting to serve the Lord also. This is the fondest wish of my heart, that my sons would serve the Lord and love the Lord...my two stripling warriors. Daniel will do great in Chile and the people there are so very blessed to have him coming to serve and love them also.

So...this Friday Chuck and I are leaving on our cruise to Mexico and I am so excited. We are leaving on our anniversary and we are going to have a GREAT time! I love it because it will be just the two of us with time to spend together, just the two of us together. I LOVE spending time with Chuck and have such a GREAT time with him. I love you Chuck, forever and ever. I am so glad we have forever together.

Life is.....Good

So...I realized I haven't actually blogged about much of anything lately so I thought it was time to. Life moves forward as normal...home...work...home...family...friends...church...etc. I spend my time at home in the morning surfing the web and checking out facebook and the blogs I like to follow then I get ready to go to work...work 3 1/2 hours at school police in the office and then back home again...or out with family/friends. I can't believe that school is almost out, this Friday, it has gone so quickly. I remember when the school year started saying how quickly it would go and it does, absolutely, go so swiftly. I will be working summer school once again, this time at Desert View Independent Study at Chaparral and am so grateful that I have the work that month to help earn the money to pay the bills.

This summer is so full of happenings...Chuck and I are going on our cruise to Mexico for 3 days and then home and off to Utah to get Daniel his missionary clothing and Michael moved up to Utah for BYU Provo this fall. It is so crazy that I am losing both of my sons in a 2 month period of time. It's all good though as they are supposed to grow up and leave the nest. Kinda hard on the moms heart but it's all a great thing that is happening.

This is Michael's permanent leave the nest in my opinion...he has a long road to med school so I don't know where his path will take him. It is so exciting to see Michael moving forward and progressing towards something that makes him happy. I am happy for him to go to BYU Provo as he will be around tons of other college students and will have all sorts of new experiences that he can't have living here in Pinon Hills...it is so rural and does not have the opportunities he will have up in Provo. It will be a fun time for him with tons of other young adults to hang out with.

Then I have Daniel going on his mission to Chile and I wouldn't want him anywhere else in the world than on a mission for the Lord. He is my youngest so it will be hard to let him go, but it was hard to let Michael go too...but it's a wonderful, beautiful thing!

I do have Catherine living at home again after 7 years of living on her own so we won't be empty nesters quite yet. Catherine is at home so she can go back to school for a nursing degree or whatever she chooses...just trying to help her out too.

So, I work, I am home most of the time, and I LOVE my family! Life has it's challenges but it is good too.

Update on job I applied for...

Well...I didn't get that job I applied for but that's okay. I know that it wasn't the right time and at least I have a job and it's a good place to be. I like my boss and it is an easy job with hardly any stress....that is a blessing! So...I put it in the Lords hands and this is what happens, all of the time, but it's all good. I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father that he loves me enough to make sure that I am where I am supposed to be and in a good environment. On to fun plans for the summer...yippee!

Cruise to Mexico here we come!

I am so totally EXCITED!!! Chuck and I are taking a 3 day cruise to Mexico on our wedding anniversary. This is Chuck's birthday gift, our anniversary gift, and then my birthday gift in September. I am so excited to go with Chuck and spend 3 days alone on the cruise ship. We are leaving from Long Beach and are both so thrilled to be doing this. Then we get to take Daniel up to Utah to purchase his suits for his mission...so much to do...but this is a wonderful time and I am so excited! This will be my second cruise and I am so looking forward to it!

Happy Birthday Chuck!

Today is my wonderful husbands 51st birthday. Happy Birthday Chuck! I love you forever!

I Love Sundays

I have to say how much I love Sundays. I love it because we get to go to church and feel of the spirit then come home and relax and not worry about doing much of anything...not like regular days where I think about what needs to be done like going to the store, work, etc. I love the feeling I get on a Sunday of relaxation and just feeling such a sweet spirit.

Today I got to teach the lesson in Relief Society. I was asked to sub this last Wednesday and taught the lesson from a general conference address. I was having such a hard time getting it finished and have been praying about it for several days now. Last night Ray gave me some good advice about what to do for my lesson so I got on the internet, went to the LDS church website and got the rest of the information that I felt I should use. Catherine came to relief society to support me in my lesson and the lesson went really well. I give all thanks to my Heavenly Father and Him answering my prayers in giving my lesson. I was told it was a good lesson and I'm just so grateful that it was. I know it is because Heavenly Father blessed me to do well. Anyway...I'm glad it's all finished and I get to do my duties as the secretary once again.

I love sitting here relaxing with my family and enjoying being together. So...off to spend more time with them.

Job Opportunities

So...I have applied for a job at the school district, it's full time...and now I applied for a second one. I have applied for so many jobs and been turned down, it's not been right I guess. So we'll see if one of these work for me or not. I know that the Lord has my best interest in mind. I toook a test yesterday and didn't do so great on a portion of it but showed that at least I can do it...but I felt very calm and happy after the test so I know that no matter what everything will be as it should be. I know that working part time is okay as I do enjoy the free time it affords me even though I go to work right in the middle of the day. Full time would be a good thing to help with retirement someday too...but I know that it's all in the Lord's hands and He will help me to be in a good place that is good for me and my family. I love the Lord so much...He is so good to me!

Car Repair

So...Daniel was in a little car accident, all by himself, he hit a pinon pine going around a corner on a dirt road too fast...so we bought the corner lens cover to replace the damaged light and got it within a few days. Last night I didn't want to wait any longer to get it replaced and went out and started working on it. I could get everything off except for a bracket and Daniel came out to help me. I prayed and prayed for help and still couldn't get it. This morning Daniel got up and said that he got an idea on how to get the bracket off. He went out, found the right pliers, and voile, there it was in his hands. He came in and showed me he had gotten it off and immediately we knew that my prayers had been answered and Daniel received the inspiration. We went out and were able to get the replacement part on quickly and easily...the Lord is so AMAZING!!! Daniel said a prayer of thanks before we went out and put the new piece on and we are both so grateful to our Heavenly Father for his blessing us in getting this light replaced so easily. Daniel got to finish putting the light back on which was good since he is the one that broke it in the first place. We are both so grateful to our Heavenly Father and can only keep saying how He ROCKS and He is the BEST!!! He is so COOL!!! I feel like He is saying, "Yes, I am"... :) I am just so grateful for the blessings that the Lord gives to me and my family...even the smallest blessings that He gives to me. I love the Lord so much!!! Thanks Daniel for acting on the inspiration you were given and getting the part taken care of. You are AWESOME and will be a GREAT missionary!!!

Rennaissance Faire

So we just completed the 7 weekends of doing Rennaissance Faire in mostly good weather, a few days of HOT weather. I must say it has been a lot of fun spending time with our friends at faire on Saturdays. We have been a part of Renn Faire for about 21 years now with a few years off in between. Chuck has always been a herald at faire and I, of course, play his wife there.

I had a new outfit this year, I made it, and it was so nice to have an outfit that wasn't so HOT and HEAVY...it was made of brocade and light weight material so I didn't die of the heat out there. I have many thanks to give to my friend, Mary Wine, for her helping me to get my outfit made in time. She is a goddess in sewing and creating patterns out of nothing. She is so amazing in her talents in sewing...I have sewn since I was 14 years old and still have so much to learn...Mary taught me so much! I am now looking forward to making a square neck chemise and new sleeves.

Anyway...faire was so much fun and it was great seeing friends that I have known for so many years. We keep in touch on facebook, some of us, but mostly see each other at faire rehearsals during the off season and then play together at faire for the 7 weekends we do it.

We quit doing faire for a few years and then finally went back with the understanding that we would only attend on Saturdays...Sundays are for family and attending church. I am always happy to be sitting at church on Sunday and feeling the spirit...I know it's where I am supposed to be and spending time with my family. Such a great feeling to have.

It is fun to have an activity that my husband and I both can enjoy together and that brings new friendships and fun into our lives. For this year it is over...I'm glad...it is time consuming...but it is fun for us and quite an experience.

Dentist Appointment

So today I finally get to go to the dentist and get my permanent crown on my tooth...it's just been a month since they put on the temporary. They told me 3 weeks and after 4 I wondered if it was going to come in. I called the dentist and they finally got it...4 weeks later! I'm just glad that I finally get to get the permanent tooth in...it's a good thing.

Update on the accident today

I am happy to say that the insurance company of the girl that hit Michael has really stepped up to the plate and is going to pay for the repairs on Michael's car and a rental car for him while it's in the shop. Wow, they called him and are being so nice to him. I guess she was a good one to hit him if it had to happen, huh? See...blessings in all of the mess...I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father. I am just so impressed that this insurance company is being so good...I hope it is all for real, we'll know this next week. It sounds like they are so it should all be good.

Daniel is dealing with the fact that he has been in two accidents this week and learning to really appreciate big cars...they are all big and heavy cars. I guess he's supposed to really appreciate this concept...it will make him a better driver, right? We get the challenges while he gets ready to serve the Lord for two years...let's hope there aren't too many more in our immediate future, right? :)

I sure love and appreciate all of my friends that are showing such love and concern for these challenges...thank you all and know that you are so loved!!!

Another Accident

Okay...so Daniel and Michael are on their way to college this morning and Michael calls me to say he was rear ended. I am shaking right now...it was a low impact rear end but still... Daniel says that he is trying to get over his dirt road accident and now this happens. Michael said that a car stopped suddenly in front of him and then this girl hit him while someone else hit her. His trunk won't open and her hood is crunched. I had to tell Michael to call the police and he has to wait for a report even though he is anxious to get to his college class. He said that he is okay and so is Daniel but he is very upset. His trunk won't open and his and Daniel's backpacks are in there. I told him to make sure he gets pictures and trades information and hopefully this girl has insurance. So...the challenges have truly began and I don't want anymore! :) lol

The Lord loves me and my family...I am grateful for the challenges but don't really want them! :) No more for now...okay?

Update on Daniel's little accident

So...poor Daniel was so upset about what he had done with the car that he stayed home the next day from college...he was so depressed that he had messed up like that. He had his "pity party" on Tuesday and that night I told him to "get over it" and he was going to college the next day. lol He is such a great guy and I would rather he felt bad at his mistake than thinking it was all okay... :) I am so grateful for my wonderful son, he makes me so proud of him. He is so incredible and I know that these little incidents are just a small test and pass quickly and I am so thankful that things weren't worse than they were. I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father for the blessings that He gives our family. So...things keep going forward and Daniel will get through is guilt and learn from the experiences he has. He is AWESOME!!!

Challenges have begun...

So...things can always be worse but right now I'm frustrated with Daniel for going too fast on a dirt road. He had the car to drive to the college yesterday as his brother was working and I didn't want to come and pick him up. He decided to go to a friends house (didn't call to let me know) and finally came home around 10:30 last night. After he got home he let us know that he was going a little fast on a dirt road and ended up losing control and ran into a pinon pine tree. He said there wasn't much damage to the car and it wasn't that bad. He was pretty shaken up and said that the light covering was damaged just a little and shouldn't be too bad to replace. I was so upset with him as he is such a new driver and what was he thinking not going slow on a dirt road, especially with him being a new driver and all. He said he knows and is so apologetic about this. He feels so bad and I told him that I was angry and would get over it but for now I was angry. I worked so hard last night on getting over it and was lying down and realized that he is more important than any car and it could be worse, he could've rolled it or hit someone else or some such thing. So crazy!!! I was so upset and still am...especially after I saw the damage on the car...it was a bit more than he said it was...the light cover is almost all gone and the scratches on the side and the window are a lot. It could have been worse but darn...it shouldn't have happened at all. I told Daniel that I understand it was an accident and those happen with even veteran drivers, but darn it...it upset me that he did it anyway. He feels so bad and realizes that it's a good lesson learned and he will be more careful. I had to stop being upset and give him some comfort as he was having such a hard time.

I know that he will be tested as he gets ready to go to the temple and leave on his mission so I'll have to pray extra hard that we all can get through this. I'm so grateful that he is going on his mission and we get to have these experiences! :)

By the way...Daniel will be going to the temple June 6th and I am so excited that I get to be there with all of my children! What a blessing!!!

I LOVE the Temple!!!

So last night I went to the temple with Elaine, it was Ward Temple Night. Chuck couldn't go with me as his temple recommend is expired. Anyway...I have to say how much I LOVE the temple. I love the feeling I get there, it is so amazing! I am so grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!!!

DANIEL GOT HIS MISSION CALL!!!

Daniel will be serving in the Chile Concepcion South Mission and reports to the Provo MTC August 26th. We are so thrilled for him. This is going to be such a great experience!!! We will miss him so much but he is going to serve the Lord for the next two years and that's the BEST!!! We LOVE you DANIEL!!!

Waiting...waiting...

So, here we are waiting...waiting to get Daniels mission call! The Bishop told Daniel on Sunday that his call had been mailed out on Friday so we were hoping that by today it would be in the mail. Nope, it wasn't there. I stopped on the way home from work and no such luck. It is so hard to wait for things like this. Christina was on the phone with me and we discussed how this is probably the most important piece of mail that we will wait on. It is such a life changing piece of mail to get. It is so EXCITING!!! Well, I will post when we get the call and let everyone know where my sweet Daniel will be serving the Lord for two years.

I'm feeling better

So...yesterday I ended up waking up with a sour stomach...I thought I was going to vomit, thankfully I didn't. I have been dealing with this head cold thing and my stomach decided to join in. I had to call in to work and stay home and relax and get over the illness. Thankfully my prayers were answered and I am feeling so much better today.

We have the memorial for Roy Rushing on Saturday and that will be a sad time. My sister-in-law, Jennifer, flew down on Monday and Chris is bringing the girls down tomorrow night. Chuck will be picking them up at the airport, LAX to be precise. He will go to school days at faire tomorrow then wait around and pick up Chris and the girls and take them to meet Jenn. I won't be able to make it to school days as I was planning on it will be just Chuck and Michael. It's all good though. I will miss seeing my friends at faire this weekend but I know we need to be at the memorial service. Roy wasn't very old, late 50's early 60's, and this was all so sudden. He's in a better place though.

I have Catherine living with us once again after 7 1/2 years of her being gone and it is going great. I am enjoying her being here and the boys seem to be getting along with her and vice versa. It's all going well and I am so grateful for that. This summer my boys will both be leaving, one for school and one for his mission, so things will quiet down around here once again. Life changes so quickly sometimes but I am so grateful for the blessings of my family and what beautiful people they are.

Some Sad News

So yesterday I was checking out facebook and found out that my sister-in-laws father passed away unexpectedly on Friday night. My sister-in-law was on a cruise that docked on Sunday morning and she came home to this. We have known Roy Rushing for many, many years and are so saddened at his passing. He wasn't very old, in his 50's I believe, and it is such a sadness we feel at his passing. His wife should be having his memorial this Saturday. He will be missed by so many. Till we meet again Roy.

Daniel's papers are in, finally!!!

So Daniel had his interview with the stake president today and his mission papers are in...YIPPEE!!! I can't believe that they are truly in...we have been waiting such a long time for this to happen. We should know within 10 to 14 days where he will be sent for his two year mission. I am so proud of Daniel for all of his hard work at preparing to serve and losing the weight that he needed to lose for it. Daniel, you are AWESOME!!! I love you my son. I'll post when we find out where in the world the church will be sending him...whoohoo.

This week...

Catherine is now living here with us. It has been a hard week getting her room cleaned out so that she can put her stuff in it, getting the things that were taken out organized and put away once again, getting her belongings situated once again. It was my spring break this last week and I am so tired from all of the work. It's a necessary thing and I know that it had to be done. I am happy to have Catherine living here for the time that she needs it. Chuck made sure I knew that it could only be for a year or two...I figured that is more than enough time for her to get situated here again. It's where she needs to be for now and we'll worry about the future when it gets here.

The thing is poor Catherine moved in with what she thought was just a cold and she ended up so sick. She was having a hard time on Thursday with her breathing and when we got home from Christina and Ray's we got the rest of Catherines belongings in the house, got her bed set up, and she ended up making it and had to go straight to bed as she was feeling so weak and was having a hard time breathing. So...she gets in bed and I go and check on her and she is having a rough time. I was thinking I was going to have to take her to the hospital. Instead I told her to go to the bathroom and turn on the hot water and see if the steam helps. She did that and it did help her, alot. So she goes back to bed and I feel her forehead and she has a pretty good fever. She slept with the humidifier and had her meds and off to sleep she went. She was much better on Friday but still weak. She thankfully didn't have any massages that day so she was able to relax and get over this illness. I am happy to say that she is doing much, much better and will be ready for work this next week. She sure scared me though. I guess it doesn't matter how old they get, we still worry about them, I am her mother after all! :)

So, yesterday was Rennaissance Faire and boy, it got hot. Not as hot as we had last year but that will probably come too. By the time we get home Chuck, Michael, and I are so exhausted we go straight to bed. I am enjoying the faire so much and spending time with people we know and love down there. It takes a lot of our time and some money but it sure has been fun. It is a fun place to visit but I like being a part of it even more. It is fun to portray a character and create what they are like through your own interpretation. The best part is the people that we have known for years and getting to see them. Some of these people we have known for over 20 years now. Such fun, even though it can get so HOT!

Happy Birthday Christina

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BEAUTIFUL CHRISTINA!!! She is 28 years old today. I can't believe how quickly time flies by and that my first baby is 28 years old now. I took her and her sister, Catherine, to lunch today and we had such a nice time. We had dinner at her house and opened gifts. I love her so much and am so thankful for such a beautiful daughter. She is a wonderful mommy to my sweet grandchildren and a good wife to her husband, Ray. I am so proud of her and her accomplishments...you are amazing Christina! I LOVE YOU!!!

We had to bury our beloved Rottweiler

Well...yesterday we finally took our Izzy into the vet to check the huge growth on her right leg at the joint. Her poor leg was so swollen and was looking worse so I had to get her in to the vet to get her checked. She has been having some problems with her leg and not using it for the last few months but it was getting so much worse. I knew that taking her in might mean putting her down...so I was very nervous about taking her in. Well, I called the vet and they said we could get her in in a little over an hour so we got her ready and in we went. Michael and Catherine went with me, Catherine drove. Our poor Izzy couldn't walk so Michael had to carry her in and when he put her down she face planted...not good. We get her in to the room and the vet comes in to check her and yes, she has a tumor that has grown huge and is running a fever. Izzy has been our sweet precious girl for 8 years now and has been such a beautiful girl. Michael had to make the choice of putting her down and we knew that this was the best choice. She was running a fever and wasn't going to get better. With many tears we had to let our beloved Izzy go. She wanted to stay alive for all of us and was licking us to comfort us before she was let go to run free without the tumor in her body.

I want to say what a beautiful blessing our Izzy girl was for us. She was always so loving and loyal. She would run up to say hi and get so excited her whole body would wiggle and her butt would get wiggling and she would grin at us and prance around in her excitement. She brought so much joy to our lives. We were so blessed to have her be a part of our family and look forward to seeing her again one day. She is buried in our back yard alongside other beloved pets and we are mourning the loss of our beautiful girl.

I have to say that last night I had a bit of time that I felt so guilty for letting her be put to sleep...I felt like I had murdered her...but I know that it was for the best and we couldn't let her live in pain any longer. She will forever be our Beloved Izzy Girl. Till we meet her again...

Today is the day...Changes once more

So...today Catherine is moving in. I was so lax I didn't start cleaning out the room yesterday until around 3 pm...I just had to take it in small doses. I got the closet cleaned out pretty good and then worked on getting the bookshelf unloaded and out. I had to work and then take a break so that it was more manageable. I have to reorganize and don't have alot of time to do that so I have to do what I can and take care of the rest later. As long as Catherine can be comfortable in that room...that's what matters. She will be moving rooms in a few months after her brother moves out so I don't have to totally empty that room, just make it pleasant for her for now. It will all work out and it will be nice to have Catherine around some more too. She will have some adjusting to do living with her brothers once again, but it really won't be for that long and it will be good for them to get a better relationship as adults also.

I am so grateful for my blessings...now I have to go and bless others lives with belongings that I don't need any longer. One step at a time, right?

My daughter is moving in...

So...tomorrow my daughter Catherine is moving back in with us. It is so crazy to have her move back in as she moved out about 7 1/2 years ago. Such a long time for her to be gone and now come home, but I am glad that she is. I am so grateful for her sister, Christina, and my son-in-law, Ray, for letting Catherine live with them and their family since August when she moved back from Utah. I know it was a challenge to have someone else live there with 3 small children but it was good for Catherine to get a relationship with the grandchildren. Not it's time for her to move on once again and our home is the place for her to come. Whe has choices to make and we will hopefully help her to acheive her goals as she continues to be successful in her life.

Daniel has his interview with the stake president this next Sunday so his mission papers should be going in after that. He has acheived the weight that the bishop said he needed and is continuing to work on losing more. He is doing so great and I am so proud of him. I will miss him so much when he goes on his mission but wouldn't want him anywhere else right now than serving the Lord.

Michael is going to be going to BYU-Provo and moving up in June so that is another change for me. Wow, things just keep happening, but it's all wonderful and I am so thankful for that.

Gotta go and try to clean out a room for Catherine...she moves in tomorrow...so much to do!