Happy ? th B-Day Rusty!

He doesn't look ? that is for sure!

Rusty is married to Kami Larry's oldest. Rusty is a great guy with a funny sense of humor. What makes it funny is that he is a Lawyer and sometimes Lawyers and senses of humor don't like to be in the same room...but not in this case...so enjoy the day and so something fun! We love you!!!

Larry and Anne

PS this is a great day for a b-day...this is my Grandmother Ganahl's birthday...but you are not even close to her age...so that narrows down what age the ? is...

I CAN'T BELEIVE IT IS ALMOST 2009

10 Years ago I was with my brother and sister and Mom in Europe. What a wonderful trip we had over the Christmas Season. We were celebrating my brother Bob's life, he had passed earlier in the year. It is amazing what 10 years brings to your life. Mine has certainly been up and down but for the most part it has been good. I have had a saying that every day is a great day, some days just a little greater than others! If we raise the bar high on our worst days than it can only go higher from there...In the early 90's I couldn't imagine what the new century would be like...it was so unreal to me....now we are almost starting our 9th year into the new century and I am saying where did the time go....I still feel 20 but I know that I am looking on the short side of coming up on 60....I could possible see 2040 or 2050...(the way the women live in our family anything is possible). So here is too another wonderful year...here is to hope for the best for all those that I know. Find joy in the journey...if you believe in the eternities then we all know we will never have a finish line...so we may want to consider enjoying the journey more in 2009 than we did in 2008...here's to counting the days to the New Year!

The Day After-The Attitude of Gratitude Day

So the presents have all been opened, the eggnog drunk (or gaged down depending on your eggnog desires) the carols all sung, back from Gramies house we went, Merry Christmas greetings all said, shopping a distant memory, and maybe last night one actually got a good nights sleep...so now what? Well this is a great day for an Attitude of Gratitude...often times in this modern world we forget to really say "thank you" for what has been given us...yes we said thank you to Aunt Marge for the beautiful set of slippers she so lovingly crochet for us...(who knew that barf yellow was back in fashion oh wait it was white but the yarn may be a little old) and we gave the obligatory thanks to Uncle Sebastian for the 2 quarters he put in our hand and said "don't spend it all in one place Sony" (Humm...don't think he has heard of inflation...at what age can you really say someone is old?) Anyway the point is because they went to some efforts on our behalf that is what we should show our gratitude for...maybe a special phone call after the day to again thank someone for what we were given...maybe a note dropped in the mail (yeah old fashion, does anyone have stationery any more?) but something that shows that we are truly thankful for what was done for us. This might be a great opportunity for parents to have their children sit down and write a little thank you to Aunties and Uncles, Gramies and Grampies, even brothers and sisters for what was given them. There is nothing better than on the receivers end to have a little hand written note that shows their efforts were noticed. Not to mention how we can teach our young ones to really appreciate what is done for us...so let's make this the day of Attitude of Gratitude and make Aunt Bertha's day by thanking her for that fruit cake that she sent you..(looked familiar...maybe the same one you sent her last year?) No matter, gratitude is for the thought and efforts that are displayed. Gratitude helps us realize that things are nice but the love that we have for one another is priceless!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Merry Christmas everyone! We love you and hope you had a very happy day with loved ones and family today. Here is a link to a great article by my friend Elia Gourgouras and with a super idea on celebrating Christmas. What will I give Jesus for Christmas.

THE CHRISTMAS LETTER

So I guess now that I have invited everyone to read our Christmas Letter on line I should actually write one since many of you will receive our card soon.

We have had a very blessed year. It started out a little slow with Larry having a couple of surgeries...but after that we were in great shape.

We had a couple of trips to Colorado and one to Southern California, Northern California and St. George twice...so we did have opportunity to leave this wonderful town of ours.

Here is a run down of all the kids

LARRY'S:

Kami and Rusty Mahan enjoying life in Farmington, UT...

Their oldest Jake and wife Angie enjoying their 3 children (all under 5 yrs). Hollie, Jialin and Alyssa. Jake is recovering from a bad infection and several surgeries in his foot/ankle...he is doing lots better now...and Angie is recovering from doing it all!!

Kami and Rusty's second child Mary and husband Jordon moved back to Yuma(sniff sniff we miss them). They have 2 under 4yrs ...Xander and Scout ...these busy parents!

Katie married her sweetheart Skyler (and he is a sweetheart) in June.

Deidre their youngest just graduated from HS. And is dating the nicest young man ever...good choice Deeds!

Next child is Keri and Rod Tate in Murry, UT.

Their oldest Ali and Zach just had their first child this year and named him Franky. (he will not be bullied on the playground!)

Next oldest Mattie is attending college in Logan and loving the college life! (who doesn't when they are away from home)

Mitch made the basketball team for Murry High and plays all the time. Dating probably the cutest girl ever...

Marshall is bringing up the rear playing football and video games and video games..oh did I mention he plays video games!

Last but not least is Adam and Julie in Orem, UT.

Oldest Garrett, junior in HS and has his own band...very musically talented.

Casey...cute and growing an inch a day..playing baseball and basketball.

Terrell quiet but I have gotten him to at least say hi to me! He is Mr. Baseball and I am sure the big league scouts are taking a close look for the future.

Ethan...smiling all the time...and being the youngest in the family doing what he does best to his older brothers!

OK now for ANNE'S family:

Aimee still lives in Broomfield, CO.

Katelynn driving, has a job,boyfriend and junior in HS.

Brittany wanting to drive, wants to have a job and likes being a sophomore in HS.

My twinies, Haley and Becca, turning from tom boys to tom girls, and loving being freshman in HS.

oh my gosh what was this child thinking...4 girls in High School? Yikes!!!!

Matthew smart, middle schooler that plays video games, and plays video games and oh did I mention he plays video games.

Megan and Ron Smith live in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Meg and Ron got married this year...so, well I am just going to name their brood-

Megs boys: Preston 13, Shane 11, Carson 8

Ron's boys and girl: Ronnie 17, Taylor 15, Shelby 12, Hunter 10, Tanner 8, Zack 6.

It is a house full! We have enjoyed getting to know everyone a little better every time we go out there....Our best to Shelby who has to put up with all those boys and to Megan who is forever saying "Put the seat down!"

My baby(she hates when I call her that) Pattianne ( I think she hates that name more) and significant other LeJon living in Fountain Valley, CA (her house is just 4 miles from Huntington Beach Pier) tough life!

LeJon has a little girl named Skylar who is 10....

Also want to recognize my step son and his wife

Tracy and Penny Jensen, Monument, CO and their adorable children...Ali, Lindsey, Karissa and Matt. It was great to see them again this year!

Our family comes in all shapes, sizes, ways of life and we love them all...we are so blessed to be a part of their lives and so enjoy the times that we are able to be together....

So this next year enjoy each other in the marvelous journey that we call life! We love you all and miss you...

Anne and Larry

PS we get asked a lot "So what do you guys do all day," well one thing is that we have contests on who can remember who belongs to who...let alone coreect spellings and heaven forbid all the correct ages!!! it's enough to keep us busy the rest of our lives.

Garfield Family Christmas Party

Tonight was the Garfield's annual Christmas Party. And it was amazing. I love the traditions that they have. Dinner always includes Pizza that big L buys...then we have the reading of the Christmas story from Luke with songs interwoven with the reading...then some games, opening of gifts and then the all telling Kazoo fest. Everyone has a kazoo and each person gets to choose a song and lead with the kazoo...well with 27 people that can take awhile...so much fun and laughter with all of this...I can see they really enjoy this tradition and I am glad to be a small part of it.

But my favorite memory of the night will Jake holding Alyssa at the end of the evening...I am not sure who is more tired? Jake or Alyssa...Jake has recently had foot surgery and just in the last couple of days able to walk a little bit...so he and Angie all evening have been chasing Alyssa (about 15 months), Jailin (about 22months) and Hollie(big 5 years) around...just sums up what a wonderful party it was...Dad tenderly holding a very tired little girl that had fun being part of the party. And a very tired little girl snuggling up to her fathers warm safe embrace...

OUR VISIT WITH SANTA

My brother Tim who is 2 years older.

Today is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in the Catholic Church..now before you go all crazy thinking that I have turned back to my roots...not to worry..Our Sacrament time is going to be 9am this year (I thought it was going to be 1pm) so I have decided to stay with the Mormons for 2009 at least...OK back to the feast stuff...Every year on this day we went to visit Santa...we as Catholics attending Catholic schools always had this day off because it was a very important feast day...we had to start off with Mass (mandatory) and then we went to visit Santa later in the day..my mom loved it because it wasn't busy and she did not have to fight the crowds...sometimes after visiting Santa we got to pick out a new ornament for our Christmas Tree....here are a couple of pics that I found...I think I was about 5 one year and maybe 6 the next...when I was 6 the magic was kinda gone...with 3 older brothers and all of them evil they could not wait to be the first to tell me about Santa...I can remember being on the side of the building at school for the older kids and my brother Tim making fun of me for believing...then the others confirmed the true but sad news...my brother Jim tried to then tell me they were just kidding, but by then the damage had been done...the trauma and scaring had sadly taken place...my mother when I got home just said that they were being mean older brothers and playing a trick on me...not to believe a word they were saying...So in the black and white photo I was in awe of Santa...but in the color one I had that smirk on my face because I knew what was going on...what a difference a year makes..for my mothers sake I had my picture taken for many years...then when my sister came along when I was 10 she got to visit Santa and I was off the hook...

My brother Jim who is 5 years

older and my brother Tim.

So here is to all who visit Santa...enjoy the magic! And smile pretty to make your Mama happy!

I ENJOY A GOOD CORN DOG AS WELL AS THE REST OF THEM..

So you may need to zoom in on this to see everything. Last night my sweet husband treated me to a cultural event that was wonderful...the man is thoughtful! Glen Beck was brilliant and his story so heart touching and tearful...I think it even made me think outside myself...it was wonderful!
But...I do have a few comments on the ECenter and those that were in attendance....if I offend anyone I truly am sorry...but remember I am old and come from another time...maybe another world...who knows!

Ok...I love a good corn dog, bucket-o-popcorn, churro and lets not forget those nachos dripping with cheese with all those hot belly poppin jalapenos...yes yum yum yum to all that...but well I think they have their place and when you attend a cultural event such as we did last night well not sure of the mix...kinda like attending something very spiritual at the conference center or the Dorthy Chandler Pavilion in LA and having someone yelling...POPCORN - PEANUTS anyone...you see the big picture here...carnival just doesn't go with spiritual...well maybe if you are a traveling gypsy evangelist..maybe then...but that is another story for another time...

I was so surprised of how many people were still coming in well after the performance started (what about it starts at 7:30 did they not understand?) we probably missed about the first 10 mins of the show because of the heavy flow of traffic up and down the isle...then when the woman with the baby..yes baby came in and sat in front of us several seats in I thought that I was not going to be very nice...(I love babies, absolutely love them but this just isn't the place for them)...well a few mins later a second mom with small baby climbed over the people in the row in front of us and sat herself down. Now... I realize that being a young mother and getting out can be difficult... but this isn't church and just isn't the place for small crying fussy babies at 8 o'clock at night...sorry call me old fashion! So throughout the night these young mothers were up and down as those in their row were doing the wave to accommodate them. While others were just out and out loudly visiting in the isle ways...while others were trying to juggle the popcorn, peanuts and crackerjacks with mungo size drinks down the isle...when it cleared for a moment and we could actually see the stage I wasn't sure if I was going to see Hulk Hogan or what...then I remembered oh yeah this was kinda a cultural event, not the WW Smackdown...er...ah...is that the wrestling?

What ever happened to manners? Didn't their mom's tell them it wasn't polite to talk when someone else is talking...mainly the guy on stage that we all paid pretty decent money to come listen to? What about staying in your seat until the break in the performance when you can go take care of all your needs...we paid (what we think, now remember we are old) good money for these seats...plus taxes, plus ticket masters charge (need a little Vaseline for that one), plus $10 for parking(another Vaseline moment) to watch people with ill manners walk up and down the isle with sports fare food, talking loudly and not really paying attention to the spirit of the moment and young babies crying...hum...

Well all in all we enjoyed the show...we do suggest that you read the book because it is a very touching story and one that does make a person think outside of themselves...one that will touch your heart completely.

Larry and I will remember this evening with not only a smile in our hearts for the message of the show but a smile on our faces for the wonderment of human nature!

Friday Fill in's

Another idea I stole from Ali! Called Friday Fill In's...so here it is...feel free to follow this is idea here.

1.Snow where is it?
2. I'm looking forward to so many things...Christmas, seeing family, snow, playing cards with Paul and Elaine, shopping Monday with my friend, teaching my Primary Class and just staying home enjoying my man!
3. Coke(the real thing) is the best soda pop ever!
4. One of my favorite old TV shows is Night Court, still funny after all these years.
5. I'm done with Christmas shopping....NOT!!!!
6. The most enjoyable thing around the holidays is lights, food, family, Christmas trees, decorations, Temple Square and the celebration of Jesus' birth. (OK I said that because I need some points from above...I do mean it but I am transparent at times and this is one of those times!)
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to cards with Paul and Elaine, tomorrow my plans include Glen Beck's performance at the E Center (really though we have to go to West Valley? I feel about West Valley like I do Aurora in Colorado...when you have to have a token to use the rest room at Mickey D's it's got to be telling you something) and Sunday, I want to make it through Sacrament without sleeping! Amen!

HAPPY B-DAY LEJON

LeJon or LJ is Pattianne's(my daughter) boyfriend, significant other, house husband, mate...well I am not sure of the PC way of how it is suppose to be said...but we love him...so Happy Birthday to LeJon! How many is this for you...Son?

THANKSGIVING 2008

THANKSGIVING 2008

Great food!!! Yum Yum...

Wonderful family and friends to share

it with...

Our newest turkey munching member...Franky
Sisters enjoying some alone time..

The guys doing what they do best...
Thanks for a wonderful day everyone!!!
I miss my children and grandchildren today so thanks for filling in the void...Love you all!

Hope all the CO and CA loved one's had a great day...hugs and kisses to all!!

Attitude Gratitude

We are in the season for being thankful...today in church we heard some great talks on gratitude. To list all that I am grateful for would take days...however I haven't always felt this way. It took some heart wrenching changes to find gratitude in my life. So count your many blessing one by one and enjoy this season of the year with an attitude of gratitude. Each day you can make a difference!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

OK so it's someones birthday in the world.

Today is the anniversary of JFK's assassination...for those of us that are old enough to remember...it was one of the saddest days of my life to think that we experienced a President getting assassinated...and for what reason? We lived in a land that was suppose to be safe from this craziness...it was so difficult to understand. Our teachers must have cried for weeks...JFK was a Catholic and it probably didn't matter what his view points were the Nuns were elated that there was a Catholic in the white house and now the whole world could be saved...

So I have chosen to think that because that day JFK died a new spirit was born into this world. So every year I think of all the special ones that came into this life on Nov. 22...they have a memorable day because they were born and because they were born on a day that changed this nation of ours. A sacrifice was made that day. Sacrifice can pave the way for opportunities.

So Happy Birthday to all who have this day as theirs. You were given many opportunities by your mom. Here is wishing the best for you... whoever and wherever you are.

CHURCH CALLINGS

Well it finally happened...the Bishop called and asked if they could stop by for a "quick moment" (may be quick but it always stings)...so he and Brother Perry came over and extended a calling to me...and after a 10+ year layoff from Primary I have been called as a Primary worker...he said that it was either the Valiant's or the Sunbeam's and I sure as heck hope they call me as the Valiant Teacher...in this Ward things are different ...they have 2 teachers to a classroom and you switch off each week teaching. It use to be that you were the only one teaching a class so when you needed a substitute and made that call...well everyone avoided your call because they knew you were calling them to be a substitute (I know this because that is what I use to do!) Also they keep the class sizes manageable here...I have had the 15 kid class where I was wishing that the parents weren't so diligent about coming to church EVERY Sunday!

Over the years I have had some of the most inspiring Primary moments and also some pretty darn funny ones...One class that I had was one that no one would accept being the teacher for...it seemed like there were some pretty high strung spirits the Lord sent down that year and all in the Standley Lake Ward. Some days I would think that it made the ward on One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest look sane and even reverent! I ended up loving those kids so much...it was the most diverse class that you would ever see...several had some learning disabilities, one was ADHD (and the parents were in denial and thought that little Johnie would just grow out of it, wasn't he so cute! NOT!) and one had some major emotional hangups. In Colorado our Wards take in a large geographical area so it was not uncommon for kids to come from 4 or 5 different schools...that always helped in the mix of things. At least with all in the same school the pecking order has already been established. Each Sunday we had a contest for who was going to be lead dog...because we had a class full of lead dogs! One young boy who challenged my patience (A LOT), must of heard one of our lessons on kindness and each week started carrying my church bag to primary for me...we had another lesson on manners and another young boy started to hold the door open for me, one young girl started to help me clean up after class each week, we must of had a lesson on helping, and one young girl would save a seat in Primary for me...this class turned out to be a very special class that touched my heart and made me realize that the scriptures have so many great life lesson stories...I think that year it was based on the New Testament...anyway the point is you just never know what is going to happen when you accept the Lords calling. This was a win win for all of us...I learned to believe in the Spirit, Prayer and the possibility and potential that each young spirit holds. In turn these sweet young spirits learned that they were loved and were children of our Heavenly Father.

When the Bishop and Brother Perry extended the calling my heart sank...I really wanted to be in Relief Society...but I accepted on the faith that my experiences will be the same as they have been in the past. I have already heard about the Valiant class and I do believe that I am ready for the challenge. The most difficult thing about being called to Primary in a Ward that I haven't been in very long is that I really don't know the children. In my other Ward and Stake I had been in them for over 20 years...so most of the children I taught I knew them before they were a twinkle in their parents eye!!

OK one of my funniest Primary moments was when I asked

" Does anyone have any questions?" We had just had a story from the Book of Mormon and a hand shot up from one of my 10 year old boys. I was pretty excited because he was not one known for participation let alone to be so forward as to ask a question. My joy sprang forward, I beamed to feel that perhaps I had inspired this young man through the spirit to be so bold to have a question. So here was the question..."Hey has any one ever seen the hair in a girls armpit?" "You know they shave it don't you?" What can you say to that...but Amen!

And yet another day in Perry, UT

It's maybe a bla day. I probably am not feeling very well..Larry is watching football, I am doing wash...Larry is watching football...I am scrubing toilets...Larry is watching football...I am changing the bed...ok so you get what is going on in my exciting life...they say that it won't be easy but it will be worth it! Ok... so open me a can of this "Worth It" that everyone is talkin about!

Look what I learned in school today...CRAP BOOKING

Wow taking a class at school can really help...I am taking a graphics arts class and today we learned how to do a crap book page...I thought that I would learn other things but since we live in the land of Molly Mormon I guess all the other class members want to do crap booking...OK the principles are the same but you all know how I feel about crap booking...just not going to happen...so all of my posterity please do not look for those cute little paper torn, embellished, cute little sayings and picture books all dolled up under the tree this year..it just ain't happening!!! I still love you but ...hum...but..not that much!

Keeping promises and Trusting each other

Larry and I spend a lot of time talking about trust...my mentality is that I would rather hear the truth (even if it might hurt a little... OK even a lot) than hear something that he thinks that I want to hear...for example: that age old question that women seem to test the men on..."does my back side look fat in this moomoo?" (Just like a cow...moo moo) I would rather hear from my husband that the south side of my body going north is not so good looking in that outfit ...than from someone else...cause we all know there is someone out there just waiting to tell us the truth..."not to hurt your feelings honey but I would rethink that out fit because you look like you have all of Santa's presents in THAT trunk of yours.!" ... come on ...you know that person...we all have one in our lives...So I would rather hear this news from someone that I trust and love other than that ...well...mean girl (or you can substitute any word that fits for you...after all I have to keep this family friendly) ...On the other hand my husband feels that telling a little white lie once in awhile is a survival tool that he won't part with...it simply is not a lie to him...this is why men are from mars and women are from the superior Venus. We all know that trust is one of the core foundations for a lasting and healthy relationship. It is what Faith is to your religious beliefs and water is to survival...we must continue to trust each other and build on that trust even when it hurts!

A friend of mine has started writing for the Mormon Times. His first article was on Keeping Promises (all part of the Trust issue) and well written. Elia is a kind and wonderful person so I would like for all of you to read his article and watch for him. He has some talks published on CD's and has a book coming out...anyway read his article and go to his sites...he is one of the best people that you will ever associate with...here is the link keeping promises.

The day after the elections

I am not sure that I am seeing this all correctly....BUT Robert Kirby my favorite writter has said it best....click here for the wonderful article

Franky's Blessing Day

Mom, Franky, Great-grandpa Larry, and Auntie Mattie

These were some of the 50 some people that were at the church and more showed up at the house...it was a crowd on a very rainy day.

Today was a great day! I love baby blessings and today's was wonderful. Franky Tate Sumsion was blessed by his father and 50 plus family members to share in this event. What a sweet sweet blessing that his father gave him. Thanks Zack for being in tune with the spirit!

Halloween years past

Years past Halloween has been fun for so many reasons...when I was a teenager going trick or treating was so much fun...we would bring our sheets and knell down, ring the door bell and say "boooo tick or treat" we would get the "oh how cute" then the doling of candy and promptly stand up and say in our deep grown up voices 'Trick or Treat" ha ha and fun off...we did this for many years.. well as long as we could get away with it...then we graduated to taking our martini glasses around to our friends and well you get the picture on that one...then kids came along and it was fun to dress them up and take them out...and even more fun to glean our favorites from their bounty after they went to bed...that was in the days when you got chocolate you really thought you had scored! One of my most vivid times was when it was pouring rain...the 2 older girls were 6th and 7th grades and after two houses in the rain decided their hair was getting too messed up and headed home leaving Pattianne and I to enjoy the night...we were freezing as the rain turned to wet snow but the pay out was tremendous...since most of the tricker treaters were taking cover most houses were so glad to get rid of their candy...we almost filled a whole pillow case full...it was glorious. Persistence pays off!

As the grand kids came along it become a time where they would go to gramie's house to take advantage of my neighborhood. We would always have the customary pictures, some food and go out to have fun in the neighborhood. For years I had some bats eye's that lit up and pumpkins that lit up in our front windows...they always knew that it was Halloween when those decorations got put up...I miss those special times!
So happy halloween to all the grand kids that share these memories!

Halloween is a time to have fun even if it is only for a few hours. It is part of the fall which transitions to Thanksgiving and then Christmas...one of those package deals...

Jake update

Since I have been so bad about getting to everyone via email maybe this will help on the communication...Jake was scheduled to have surgery today but the Dr. called early this morning and told Jake that they will have to wait until next week to continue on with the next surgery...bummer for Jake and Angie...the lab results show that the infection is still in his system and the levels are to high to do surgery...so sometime next week they will schedule it...as always please continue to pray to Jake and Family...thanks for the support! Our best to them...we love them and want the best...

77 YEARS YOUNG TODAY

WOW!! Another year older...Happy Birthday to a wonderful man, great father and grandfather and great-grandfather, super friend, perfect companion...thanks for all you do...lots of love from your family.

Seeing old friends

At Carson's baptism I had the pleasure of seeing some old friends from school. Celia and I went to an all girls private school Cornelia Connolly in Anaheim, CA. I met Celia through my cousin Louise. There was a group of brainiacs which Louise and Celia belonged. I can remember sitting with them in awards assembly...they would empty the row for every subject (I was the designated bench warmer for them, that was my talent). They were all so smart and Celia has done very well for herself working in the aero technology field, space station just small stuff like that ...she is now working on a huge project for the Antarctica...she has always been way up there on the smart scale! Larry was my friend from somewhere around 8th grade or maybe earlier...I was talking a summer school class at Sunny Hills High School when I met him. I was walking to school and his Grandmother was taking him and she stopped and asked if I wanted a ride...she lived across and down 2 houses from my Grandmother...so trusting an old lady I accepted the ride. Larry and I became great friends instantly. For some reason we clicked and from there on spent a lot of time together and attended summer school every year together until we graduated. After 2 years of the all girls school I was uninvited to attend and signed up at the local high school where Larry and I spent our last two years being nerds. Larry looked 12 when he got his driver lisc in November (I was a Feb b-day) so he got to drive all the time...I can not begin to tell you how many times he got stopped because they thought he was 12...it was pretty funny. At first Larry dated my cousin Louise and then after high school she introduced him to Celia...well the rest is history..they have been married for over 33 years now.

So when I was able to see them again this last week it was wonderful to be able to talk and play catch up. Right now they are living in Colorado Springs waiting on Celia's job to be awarded a contract for the Antarctica project. They happen to live right down the street from Megan...such a small world!

So here is to old friends and good laughs and remembering old times...always makes you feel young again...love ya guys!!!

Carson's Baptism Day

What a beautiful day in Colorado Springs for a Baptism and a family gathering afterwards. Carson and his winning smile...I know that I have talked about family before and how we are all connected by the spirit one way or another...our family is made of many different spirits and not all of them are blood related...but they are all wonderful people. I was so glad to see all that attended today. Here is how the line up was: Megan and her 3 boys (Preston, Shane, Carson), her husband Ron and his 6 children (Ronnie, Taylor, Shelby, Tanner, Hunter, Zack), Megan's nephew and my grandson (Matthew), of course Larry (my husband) and myself...Megan's step brother and my step son from a previous marriage, Tracy aka Mike and his wife Penny (Meg also works with Penny) and their children (Ali, Lindsey(with friends), Karissa and Matt), Ron's mother Jennifer, Megan's ex husband Jason and his new wife Liz and Liz's daughter (Gabbie) (got to take a breath here to finish) and my highschool friends (whom I have not seen for over 17 yrs for Larry and 27 years for Celia) with their son's (Jimmy and Robert)...ok that is what I am talking about..family comes in all shapes and sizes and emotions...it definitely is one of those enjoy the journey moments!!!

Getting ready to travel

Well once again we are getting ready for another trip to visit with family and attend Carson's Baptism in CO. The drive is about a 9 hour drive which in the old days that was nothing...but now since I don't get to drive much it is way to long to sit and just look out the window...I can tell you exactly how this will work...we will plan to leave at 8am but Larry will be ready to leave at 7am so we will leave...we will listen to Rush Limblablabla and all the other right wing talk shows across Wyoming, (can we say hostage situations?) we will eat Triscuts along the way and heaven forbid that we stop extra for the bathroom..."gee can't you wait till I get gas next?" The car can travel for about 450 miles before it needs refueling...eh that's kinda a long wait for even a camel! Anyway it is always fun (OK kinda) when we travel...we will have some great adventures and it will be wonderful to see all the kids and grand kids!

Marble Family Reunion

Gotta love family reunions...on the outside everyone looks happy, content and all is right with the world...well as Paul Harvey would say...now for the rest of the story. All families are alike, dysfunction comes in all races, colors, creeds, white collar, blue collar, white trash, redneck and what ever else you want to call it...but at the end of the day we are all still family and we have deep roots to each other. In my case my roots for the Marble family are to Larry who was married to Leanne who is a Marble....so technically I am truly the outsider. Leanne has a wonderful family. I love her sisters, Jenae, Linda and Emilee...Leanne was lucky to have such nice sisters to grow up with. From them are super spouses, awesome kids and wonderful grand kids. I loved being with all of them and watching everyone catch up with each other...family is family and whether we are getting along or not, whether we like someone or not, well the list goes on... at the end of the day we are family and we are all bound by the spirit.. whether we are same flesh or by marriage we are bound by the spirit and will have the opportunity to enjoy each other as our time progresses whether here on earth or in the eternities. So it is always best at these functions to make the best, to think the best and to be the best so we can enjoy the best in the life to come.

So thanks to all those that made me feel welcomed and part of the family...I feel touched and honored to be a part of this group!

Jake and Family

Larry's grandson Jake had surgery last Friday and again emergency surgery last night. So please say your prayers for him that he gets better. He has a serious staff infection that apparently he has had for awhile which has affected his bone in his leg and foot. So he will need another surgery within a week or so and he will be on a PICC line for a couple of months. We love Jake and his family and know that this is a serious situation so please pass on a prayer for all of them. Angie now has 4 to take care of so she needs all the prayers that you can spare...Hollie is 5, Jalin is 20 months and Alyssa is 13 months...Angie is one busy woman...

HAPPY 8TH B-DAY CARSON

WOW...can not believe that our grandson Carson or CJ whichever he is going by now is 8 today. He is Megan's (Anne's middle child and yes she has MCS) youngest and what a sweet kid. He has the prettiest eyes, shy smile and freckles...I am a pushover for freckles...I love this kid! We are going to be there on the 25th when he gets baptized. I am happy for him that he has chosen to do so...it's great to be 8!!! We love you Carson!!!

Fall 2007 vs Fall 2008

This was taken a year ago today. Snow and my neighbors beautiful fall tree.

This was taken today.a year later..we are suppose to get snow today or tonight. Also the tree has not turned red like last year. We thought that it was going to be an early fall but so far the leaves are not changing very much. So if anyone knows why this is... I would like to know the scientific reason behind all this stuff.

VOTE

Well I bet you think that this is going to be political but seriously folks vote on the Pizza survey that I have going...I know that more than 4 people have visited our blog in the last few days and there are only 4 votes...So vote often and vote early...thanks!!!

To Blog or not to Blog

I have been giving this a lot of thought. At first I thought that blogging was kinda dumb. I really didn't see the purpose in it but now I have a new appreciation of the concept. I like being able to talk about practically anything and have it out there for all to see. It definitely is a very modern way to journal. And a peculiar way to communicate. ..very new century at least! I like reading other blogs and getting to know the authors even better. We are all so busy and we don't get to see each other or even communicate very often so this is a great way to have a few moments of the other person's time when it is convenient for all...you get to read the journal while they are alive. Hum what a concept.

People like Larry and I... well ...lets face it we are old and not too many people see what we do as exciting or much value sometimes...so telling you we worked on our food storage probably isn't that interesting but for us it was fun and we found some super bargains yesterday...we had some great laughs and enjoyed our time together. See already I am putting you to sleep...the other highlight of our day was we went to lunch with Larry's good friend (well maybe his only) Kirk. It was wonderful driving through the canyon to Logan seeing the beautiful fall foliage and having a wonderful lunch at Hamilton's. Kirk is very kind to insist that I go with the guys to lunch but next time I am going to leave the boys to their own devices...(friends are where husbands complain about their wives, kinda defeats the purpose if I intrude on this very precious male bonding time!) Anyway this might seem humdrum to some but for us it was a wonderful day...time spent with a good friend and time spent with my best friend just knocking around together. As the Prophet said in his talk Sunday during General Conference..Enjoy the journey!

First fishing trip together

We decided that we should finally take our first fishing trip together Wednesday. I have not fished for over 10 years and was a little intimidated by going with big "L" for the first time. Since my fishing experiences have not always been the fondest memories I was a little nervous to say the least. We went to a little reservoir out of Malad, ID about an hour or so drive from here. It was a perfect day. Blue sky's, gentle breezes, mirror water and bugs! Hey it was a perfect day for the bugs too.

Doesn't he look cute packing all the stuff down the hill. We found a nice little spot where Larry has fished before. And my fishing lesson started. I had forgotten that I need the reel on the other side so that was very confusing for me...I had forgotten that I have a weird way to cast and so when Larry tried to show me I really kept screwing it up. I lost the worm and marshmallow many times before I just said hum...let me try it a little different way and what do you know...not a bad cast at all. We could go on but the long and short of it...yeah I caught the first 3 fish. For some reason that doesn't always sit real well with the seasoned male fisherman.

This is one of the ones that Larry caught. I had to go to use the facilities (OK the hole in the ground, with bricks surrounding it and something all crappers should come with... handicap parking) anyway while I was fighting killer bees and flies he caught not only 1 fish on his pole but 1 on mine also. He even saved them for me so that he could prove that he caught them. Well all in all it was a great time and a very relaxing day. We came home still friends even after the marriage limits had been tested. All kidding aside I enjoy his company and will cherish this day.

Marrriage Moments

I don't usually have to be right to be happy but sometimes it is absolutely handed to you on a platter...and those are the times that I secretly cherish. My husband is a wonderful man of many fine qualities...one of them being an impeccable dresser and another quality is precise communication. Today he was not on his mark for either attribute...lets face it we can't always have perfect days. I knew that something was wrong when he matched a purple tie( and we are talking PUR..ple folks) with a blue shirt and suspenders that were blue, tan and maroon striped. (Fashion Police would have been out in force!) After gently suggesting perhaps another tie that would pizazz the outfit a little more ( not like a purple tie combination didn't) he just wasn't seeing my vision. He kept suggesting other tie combinations until he gave in to my oh so gentle persuasions. (ok a matter of opinion) He looked great as always..still apprehensive that MY choice was his best look. Off to church we went and then before sacrament started he communicated with me ( in about the same manor as his purple tie and blue shirt marriage) regarding his HT plans for the night...kinda uninvited me with him after we had planned on my going. Not his best communication skills (more old Larry not the new and improved Larry) ...Well as the day progressed he was complimented on his total "put together" look..."snazzy dresser" look etc.. and when he went HTing without me the family started off by asking where I was. Sometimes you get to be right and happy!!! It truly is a marriage moment to remember!

Weekly Highlights

OK that is just to get you to take a second look. When your old and blogging probably no one is going to look or read much of what you have to say...but with a picture like this... it might just peak your interest...OK now on to the boring stuff...eww yikes more fall pictures!!!

This was a little grove on the way home from Bear Lake last week...the pictures really don't capture the colors and the serenity that it had. Bear Lake was a blast and I am really proud of my husband who acted like it was OK that we got his car stuck in the sand. I know that it probably took everything in him to be all cheery. He just said oh well we can call AAA and just get a tow. Since the tow truck driver was coming out of Logan we had time to hike down to the beach and enjoy our little picnic lunch. The water was blue and warm...the flying rats were everywhere. Blazen little buggers..they were trying to come on to our blanket and steal our food...this time of year it is so peaceful at the lake. It was nice to just sit and listen to the sounds of the water lapping against the shore. It was a spectacular day.

The week has been great. As a RS Presidency we were all released on Sunday. It is always bitter sweet to serve others, become involved and then bam you are out of there. I think what is always the most difficult is the attachment you form with the ones you serve. These woman are incredible. I have never experience so much strength in one group of women before. Each one has been through so much in their lives and they have the most amazing attitudes and most of all testimonies. So we have made a pack to still have presidency meetings (A.K.A. Therapy and lots cheaper than paying someone!) often.

Megan my daughter was out this last weekend and it was wonderful to have her here. She is fun, beautiful and hardheaded...that is why I love and admire her. She is strong and I always learn so much from how she handles life. We had a great time shopping, watching movies and hanging out at the local beauty shop. Well I guess they call them salons now but no not here in little ole Brigham City this one is defiantly a Beauty Shop..gossip and all! As your children get older and you are separated by distance it is always a treat to be able to spend one on one time with your child, something that you treasure.

Yesterday we had dinner with our favorite people the Rogers. Luana was called to be the Relief Society President for their ward...3rd time for her. She is perfect for that position...her compassion is unmeasurable. I have never meet anyone more sweet and perfect than her. I hope when I grow up (I guess I should say, IF I grow up) I want to be just like her. Dan her husband is OK too! (Just kidding Dan you are a peach also!) We have known them for many years and there is just none better. We haven't seen them in months so yesterday was a real treat...but as always we never get to spend enough time with them.

Hum...Vern... we four wheeling yet?

- Picnic lunch $14.59

-Drive to Bear Lake $28.47

-4 stops at public restrooms

-Short cut to the lake





-AAA towing...priceless !

More signs of Fall

In about the middle of the picture you can see some red...I was waiting on the light to get just right before I took a picture this morning...but I might have missed it...so look close...also to the right above you can see a patch of red...

Fall is in the air!

Fall has been creeping upon us for the last couple of weeks...everyday we would see small signs that fall will be here soon...today it was full on... Fall is really here...trees are turning, the hills are starting to turn red and the nights are really getting cooler...YIPPEE ZIPPY...it's our favorite time of year! Wednesday we are going to Bear Lake for our 2nd Annual Picnic. The weather is suppose to be nice and warm...last year the water was so warm...I am for sure bringing my swimsuit to splash around in the water...that is probably the closest that I will get to water and waves! Last year we had a blast along the beach. We found a nice secluded spot and thought that it would be so romantic. We got it all set up, blankets spread out, fake wine chilling, romantic music and we thought we had it made...(being newly weds and all) OK so these two old people come along and camp out 20 yards away from us...hello did they not see that there was 20 miles of vacant beach...well needless to say they were there to stay... so much for newly wed romance! We had a good laugh. They spoke only German and they must have been married a really long time because they were nagging alot at each other...pick pick pick, not a pretty sight in German! So pictures will be forth coming of how fall is looking through Sardine Canyon..enjoy this time of year it is beautiful!

Denny Crane

We have turned into Boston Legal junkies...a couple of weeks ago we were shopping (Costco where else) and they had a sale going on for the season DVD's for Boston Legal...great price so we scooped up the first 3 seasons. I had become a fan a few years ago and loved the show now Larry is hooked...so we watch a few episodes every other night. We have had to replay parts because we couldn't stop laughing...then the show turns around and makes you cry. Larry even gave up football the other night so we could watch a few episodes...if that tells you anything. We heard that this year it will be the last season so that makes us sad...so if any of you hear Larry say.. Denny Crane and give a smirk you will know why.

PEACH DAYS in the FINE city of Brigham

Yesterday was the Peach Day's parade! Wow I have been here long enough to say that I have been to 2 parades...Lucky me! Well all kidding aside it is always a humbling experience in these small towns. I was very moved when the opening of the parade is the flag being carried by our best comes down the street. Everyone seems to be doing the wave as they stand to show honor. I was particularly impressed when a young father behind me was explaining to his young 3 year old son that we stand, take off our hats and put our hand over our hearts to show respect. That was very special for me. First that they would honor what our Flag stood for and second to teach the reverence to his son. As crappy as some things seem in our nation we still live in a democracy and enjoy the freedoms that come from that...ok off the soap box and back to Peach Days.
Bands, Firetrucks, Peach Day Queen, and Square Dancing well you will see just about anything you would want to see. My favorite was the Head Honcho guy...he was advertising for his Plumbing business...I think his name is John but he was looking a little flushed that day...oh they can go on and on unfortunately. Anyway it is a big deal with booths and carnival rides, junk food and freak shows (provided by some of Brigham's finest)...It's great to live in a small town.

Another Day in Paradise

Well it's Friday and we have had a interesting week...ok ho hum week...the highlight was Ali finally kicking young Franky out of the womb..about time...he is cute and Larry is a Great-Grandpa for the 6th time...Since I am too young to be a Great-grandma I am settling for just a grandma or whatever comes along...I need more stiff bones and grey hair for the Great-grandma stuff...when he is 4 or 5 I will still be able to roller skate with him...so until I am officially in my rocking chair or off my rocker I will stay away from the great part.
A couple of my other grandchildren went on a Disney Cruise this last week and had fun..I have only heard a few details but so far so good....I really miss all the Colorado Kids.
Larry has been working hard on his Sunday School lesson so I haven't seen him much this week. He also has been engrossed in the RNC ( for all you liberals... Republican National Convention and only on Fox News (fair and balanced) (Yea right) )and football games...guess I have been somewhat of a widow this week.
Tomorrow is Peach Days in Brigham...the biggest event of the year I think...booths, parades, carnival rides (dad's lock up your daughters the carnies are in town) and junk food all awaits us tomorrow...People on Weds were laying out their tarps, chairs and blankets for the parade event...people come from all over...this has been going on since Larry can remember and we all know how long he has been around. There are still lots of orchards with peaches around here. It is fun to watch the roadside stands...I love the home town feeling.
We also want to remember those in our lives that have blessed us! Here is to another week.

Cake Wrecks

Cake Wrecks

Thought you all would enjoy this...cakes gone wrong...

Snow on the Mountain this morning

Hard to believe that it is Sept 1st already and we woke up to snow on the mountain outside our window. Way on the top, difficult to see on this pic. I hope that is an indication for an early fall. Larry and I both love the fall and are looking forward to our morning walks kicking the leaves. We are blessed and live in a beautiful area. Happy September 1st!
It has been a little over a year since I moved here from Denver. I miss Denver but do love this area and the small town environment. The change of pace has been great for me although it did take time for the adjustment. It was a lot now that I think about it. Moving, quiting a super job, leaving my grandchildren and children...leaving my friends and adjusting to a new home and marriage all at once...well I guess that I can say that I have officially made it through. Utah is beautiful and Larry is wonderful...so that is all that counts.

Here we are in the New Century! Bloggers!

OK so I guess that it is time we really get into the new century and set up a blog for us. So here is the beginning of a new chapter in an old ladies and particularly old man's life. And thank goodness this has spell check! So here we go!