Our Amazing Life

Morocco

2012-01-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

I love Morocco!

Granted, I haven't been there but I love everything thing I have read, seen in books or on the internet, the food I have eaten and the music I have heard. And OH! the smell of the spices. That, in itself is worth wanting to go there.

Morocco! Just saying the name invites intrigue.

Marrakesh! Another word of intrigue. Just the word lights me up.

Nestled at the foot of the snow capped Atlas mountains. Marrakesh beckons me.

The first place I want to hit when I get there is the souks. Djemaa el Fna. The square bustles with acrobats, story-tellers, water sellers, dancers and musicians. By night food stalls open in the square turning it into a huge busy open-air restaurant.

Sometimes I can smell what I think they will smell like. Spicy and musty, but not musty like mold musty more like intrigue musty. I can also smell animals nearby, food cooking and perfumes. At those times I close my eyes and can hear the venders hocking their wares, haggling with passerby's. I can see others sitting, drinking their tea (I hope that I am invited to sit and have mint tea with someone) and people watching like I would be doing. I would be in heaven weaving in and out of the alleys looking at the food and other items that are new to me but the place I am really looking for is the spices.

I am a spice hound. I love to spice things up when I cook especially with things that are not readily used or not found anywhere near where I live. When we moved 3 and a half years ago I was cleaning out my spice cupboard. I had 78 bottles of spices and herbs. There are not many I have come across that I haven't loved.

I think next I would hunt for a tagine. Or maybe 3 or 4. A tagine is a terra cotta cooking vessel. They have a pot/dish like bottom with a domed or peaked lid that one cooks in. I do not have one at this time but I so want one. Many of the dishes I cook I know would be so much better if only I had a tagine. This is the one I want first.....

Then, this one....

The first one is for cooking. The second one is for serving! How wonderful the food would taste if it arrived on the table served in this amazing vessel. Just looking at this vessel makes my mouth water.

And of course using the cookbook - The Food of Morocco by Paula Wolfert (once I purchase it) will be a gem in my collection. I do have the previous version but I cannot wait to get this one. Here is a link to her website

http://www.paula-wolfert.com/ There are recipes, articles and much more.

Ya know, Morocco is the first place on my Bucket List to visit. I have been many places and yet I haven't been here. I hope in the near future my number one choice on my list is lovely Morocco.

Nicole and Ryan

2012-01-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Nicole is engaged!

We are thrilled. Her beau's name is Ryan. He is a great match for her. We have known his family for 20 years and have loved them from the beginning. We met them when we were living in TX while John was going to Chiropractic school. They really embraced us and we felt so much love from them.

There is no wedding date yet. It will be no sooner then the end of 2012. It certainly will not be a quick engagement like in a lot of weddings. First of all he lives in another state. It will be a while before he will be able to move to UT and then after that the ate will be set. Nicole and Ryan will live in UT. I am sure it will be somewhere near us.

They are both looking forward to the day they will be sealed in the Temple. More details to come as they happen.

10 can soup

2012-01-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

One of our most favorite soups to make is Chicken Tortilla Soup. We have made it for 15 or so years and each time I do it is comfort to the soul.

Years ago when I started making it the kids would call it 10 can soup because it takes 10 cans to make it.

2 large cans of chicken
2 cans of chicken broth
1 lg can of petite diced tomatoes
2 cans of Ranch Beans
1 7oz can of diced chilies
1 can of corn, drained
In a large pot add all the ingredients and warm through.
Can serve with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream and olives.

When we serve this, first we crush the tortillas in a serving bowl then ladle the soup on top. Adding a dollop of sour cream, some cheese and a few olives to finish it off.

This is a great soup to warm up with in the winter but it is not so heavy that it cannot be made int eh summer also.

I hope your family loves this as much as we do.

Standard Works

2012-01-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

OK...here goes.

I, Angi, will read the Standard Works each day to meet my goal of reading the entire Standard Works by December 31, 2012.

John and I are driving back from UT to KS when I decided to take up this challenge.

http://dailyclosertochrist.com/the-daily-journey/

This blog is Emily Freeman's. She, in my opinion, is a spiritual GIANT! I love her. I have read her books, heard her speak numerous times and been enamored by her words. I hope you will pop over to her blog and check it out. Join me in the reading of the Standard Works this year. I know it will lead me on a spiritual journey, none like I have been on before.

So...back to the drive. As we are driving through Colorado I am scanning my Facebook on my phone when a fellow Facebooker is taking on the challenge and challenging others. My heart was warmed at the thought. I immediately got my iPad out and opened my scriptures. I have begun...

Happy New Year, 2012!!!

2012-01-01T09:55:00.001-07:00

Here it is...the beginning of a new year.

This past year has been an everything year. An everything year is one that everything happens. 'Happens' means so much going on, good, bad and indifferent.

I hardly got around to blogging last year which is too bad for you and me both. I don't have the record I want and I forget much of the details that it is hard to go back and fill in the blanks.

This year my resolve is to be a better blogger as well as get more organized (meaning, dejunking stuff) plan a wedding, work on my degree, try to finish my book and still be a wife, mother, caregiver, housekeeper, chef, assistant, student, neighbor, good citizen, taxi driver, gardener, disciple of God and all around good person. Now besides all of the above

I also have taken up the challenge to read the Standard Works by Dec 31, 2012. I have never read them ALL. Yes, I have studied them but to actually read them cover to cover has been a little bit (oh who and I kidding) a lot overwhelming.

This year, too, will be a busy year. But, since I am Wonder Woman I will be able to accomplish it all.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T18:54:00.002-07:00

Christmas is one of my most favorite holidays. Who am I kidding...it is my favorite holiday. Not because of the presents but because of all that Christmas means.

It actually starts right around Thanksgiving. We set up our Christmas tree and decorate our home. All done while listening to Christmas music. Not the Jolly ones about Santa but the meaningful ones about Christ and family. After we are done decorating, we turn off the lights, light a fire and light the tree. MAGIC! There is something mesmerizing about watching the lights on our Christmas tree. Each night that follows it is the same ritual. I will never get tired of it.

I like to have the Christmas shopping done BEFORE Thanksgiving so I can relax and enjoy the holidays and not be stressed out trying to get gifts, go to parties, make food, get my neighbor gifts ready and all the other things we do during December. But this year that didn't happen. I did have a lot taken care of, but not all.

I love to have a wrapping day where I wrap all the presents I have purchased so far. I get my list out that I keep all year as to what I have purchased and for whom. After reviewing it, I get out all the presents, wrapping paper, tapes, scissors, ribbon and accoutrements. Let the wrapping begin!

There are so many things to do during this wonderful month. The lights at Thanksgiving Point, the lights at Temple Square, driving around just looking at the magical wonderment's of strangers yards. But, amongst all the excitement one thing we do has been a tradition since 1997. We go to our friends home in Wichita and we read The Forgotten Carols, complete with the music of course. Now, I know many of you know what that amazing story is about and how it touches so many lives but for those of you who don't you need to investigate it.

It is the story of carols written about different aspects of Christ's birth and life from essentially outsiders perspectives. For example...the Inn Keeper. And how one man has been there to witness it all. An amazing story for the season.

I wish our home was bigger or at least the living areas were set up differently. When we have large gatherings of people for dinner I want to have them all sitting at tables that touch but yet have plenty of room to walk around. I also would like to not have to displace all my living room furniture in the mean time. We love to have family over to celebrate and what better way to do it them dine on deliciousness. When I say deliciousness I mean it. Turkey, Ham, Braised Pork, Prime Rib or Cornish Hens. Other accompaniments like garlic mashed potatoes, regular whipped potatoes with all the yumminess of cream, butter and chives, green beans with bacon and onions, cheeses, fondue, and desserts of all kinds. Can you say salivation?

Christmas morning is the pinnacle of the entire celebration. We don't get up early anymore as the kids now are adults. They like to sleep in as much as we do. We have rituals about opening gifts and if I ever try to deviate everyone always says NO!!!
We start the morning with the Christmas stocking. Each person goes in turn and opens theirs while everyone else watches. After, we make and eat breakfast. Quiche, home fries with a spin, juice and hot cocoa. After clean up we all head back to the glow of the Christmas tree and warmth of the fire.

The presents are passed out by name and when they are all distributed we open them one by one from youngest to oldest so each of us can see the their joy and the care that someone took to choose the gift. I love to see this process as it brings me great joy to see the joy and happiness of each person. What more can you ask for then to be with your family celebrating Christ's birth.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Lundgreen Reunion 2011

2011-09-06T11:17:00.007-06:00

What a weekend!

Every other year, John's mom's side of the family head to Antimony, UT to renew family ties. Love is had for all. 1985, 3 weeks after Christian was born was our first one for this generation. John and I brainstormed the idea, got a couple of other cousins to help out and viola we had ourselves a great time. This was our 14th one.

It is a 3 day event. (It started out as a 4 day event years ago) Saturday family members start coming around noon just in time for lunch and hugs all around. As everyone gets settled, the visiting begins. First generation cousins, second generation cousins and third generation cousins. It won't be long before there are 4th generation cousins. Oh My!

Each time we meet, a different family is in charge of all the activities for the weekend. We have old fashion games like pennies in the hay, balloon stomp, water balloon tossing and sack races. This year we also had minute to win it, which was a lot of fun. There is cotton candy, snow cones and an old fashion ice cream bar.
In past years we have had skits, karaoke, sock hop, pictures taken in old western clothes and western dance lessons.

It wouldn't be a reunion at the ranch without trail rides, a rodeo, hay rides and trying to dress sheep in clothes. I love to go out the the corrals and watch the kids with the animals. One highlight is chasing calves with money taped to them. Who doesn't want to chase a cow with money on them? The kids get so excited if they can grab a buck or two.

Sundays are reserved for a family devotional. We used to all go to the Antimony ward but as we got bigger and bigger they asked us not to come and have our own thing. I guess when your visitors out number your members it is too much. No worries, our own is as good or better. This year, Robyn and Gary Beynon had returned form being Mission Presidents in Brazil and they spoke and gave report on the happenings while they were gone. WOW! that was great and powerful.

Sundays are also reserved for using the shocking machine, listening to songs from the old Edison Cylinder Phonograph, crafts, writing to missionaries and service men and of course more visiting. But the grand finale is Sunday night (at least I think so). This is the time when we talk about past generations of Johns family. Grandma and Grandpa Lundgreen and their stories as well as past generation stories. Then the best thing happens........

Burns and Mona sing!!!!

Burns is John's uncle, he's married to John's auntie. He plays guitar and crones for all to enjoy. It is a sing along also. Songs like There's a hole in the bottom of the sea, I met a bear and the best one is, (at least I think so) The long tall Texan. Of course other songs are sung but These are my favs.

We do so many fun things during the weekend but Sunday night when we all get together and listen to stories and sing the songs. Nothing is better then that to me. It just solidifies all that family means to me.

Another thing I love is seeing all the cousins. Even though I am the married into the family cousin I feel loved equally. Each person brings their own personality and love to the scene. Our children look forward to this gathering each time. They too renew their souls by this gathering. I love to see them hanging out with cousins they haven't seen in 2 years and also strengthening their bonds with cousins they see regularly. Another thing I love is how they forge friendships with everyone. Family is family but it is better when family is your best friends, too.

As the weekend winds down and good byes are said I get a little melancholy. I am already looking forward to 2013. Its a good thing all these people are just a phone call away.

Sub Zero Contest

2011-05-03T22:28:00.002-06:00

Months ago Christian entered the Sub Zero Ice Cream Contest. First you submitted online ice cream concoctions that you love to make when you go to Sub Zero Ice Cream. Christian is a connoisseur of sorts of ice cream and he loves to make up many different kinds of flavor togetherness.

One of the items he submitted was Pistachio ice cream with almonds, maraschino cherries and dark chocolate flakes. 184 people submitted recipes and 12 were chosen. The company heads actually made every recipe submitted, tried them all and decided which ones they thought were the best.

Today the 12 semi finalist competed at Provo Towne Center for a chance to win a years supply of Sub Zero Ice Cream. Not just maybe one cup a week but the winner could go every day and get a medium bowl everyday for a whole year. Now that is a lot of ice cream. Just up Christians alley.

Each ice cream was made and then people at the mall were able to taste test each one and vote. People could text in their vote or vote online. The lines were insane with everyone jockeying to try all the different kinds. Christian was like a circus barker. He stood right up on his chair and called out to people and told them about his ice cream. The CEO and the Marketing Director both commented to John and I about his salesmanship skills.

Unfortunately, Christian did not win. Although we did hear many people mingling around saying they loved the pistachio the best and even one of the Sub Zero head guys was telling another person he thought the Pistachio was the best the vote didn't come out that way. The person that did win actually had over 50 votes right when the voting started. I think she just told everyone and their dog to vote at this website and or text at a certain time. There was even people on the Sub Zero page that talked about the contest and how they wished the pistachio had won.

Christian had fun and it was a a great time for all.

Who knows, maybe one day he will have a place of his own so everyone can come and enjoy all the other concoctions he makes. Ribs that are to die for, desserts that rival even the most accomplished pastry chefs, Mexican food, Italian food. You name it he can probably whip it up.

Lets fix this

2011-04-22T18:41:00.003-06:00

Today we are headed to the hospital for Nicole to have surgery on both feet.

In December she broke both feet and now surgery is warranted. Her right ankle that had an open fracture will be opened up for tendon repair while the left foot was thought to have hair line fractures but after the cast was taken off it was discovered she had 3 complete fractures and with walking on it they shifted and healed in many different directions. The Doctor will need to break those bones, realign them and pin them. (By the way, her shoulder healed beautifully.)

Nicole will not be able to put any weight on either foot for 1 week and then minimal weight on only one foot for another week. Stitches will be removed after 2 weeks. After that she will be able to bear weight on both feet for 2 weeks before her second check up.

Her Doctor said things went well and is hoping for the best.

Special Needs Church

2011-03-20T22:36:00.004-06:00

What a great weekend we had in Moab but now it is back to reality.

On the way back to Lehi I wrote my talk that I am giving in church today. Nicole and I are speaking in another ward. We are speaking with the Special Needs Mutual Group.

Nicole attends Special Needs Mutual each week which is such a highlight in her week. 2 weeks they work on YW things. It is either a lesson or maybe one of the values. 1 week another ward comes and gives mutual to them. Activities, games, crafts are all included and other things too. One week is usually a dance. When the other ward comes and shares mutual with Special Needs then the following Sunday Special Needs goes to their ward and does the sacrament program.

2 special needs "kids" speak plus their buddy as well as a leader from the YW and YM organization and 1 parent. I am the parent this week. My topic is:

"How is having a Special Needs child blessed our lives."

How can I even do justice to this topic? We have had many blessings come into our lives from the moment Nicole took her first breath. How can I look into her beautiful face and not see the miracle of God working in our lives.

Nicole was born with the umbilical cord wrapped 3 times around her neck. She was being strangled but before the cord could get tightened she aspirated in the birth canal. We didn't know it at the time but that was the beginning of our journey with Nicole and the brain injury that occurred which has caused her to have the many difficulties she has suffered with during her life time.

Nicole has Christ-like love. She loves everyone. From a young age she would say this or that person was her friend and she loved them. 99% of the time she didn't even know them. It didn't matter who they were, the color of their skin or economic circumstance, she loved them.

Nicole has taught us patience, kindness, trust, love, understanding, determination, humility, hope, faith and peace. No, life has not been a rosy path. We have had many trials and tribulations stemming from her underlying condition. She has been stubborn, trying, unreasonable and sometimes a down right pill to parent but she can also be the sunniest sunshiny spot of my day.

Schedules are a must for us. We have to plan way in advance and talk about changes in advance to help Nicole become familiar with the change. Not that we can't do something at the spur of the moment but our days go more smoothly when it is planned out. For many years we couldn't live day to day or even hour to hour, it was more like minute by minute or moment by moment.

YES, having a Special Needs Child can be frustrating at times, many times I even want to pull my hair out or even just go in my closet and scream and cry, but, there are also many days when I laugh at the funny things she does or says. I also love teaching her new things even if I have taught those things to her in the past many times.

She is a gentle reminder everyday of serving and loving the least of these....

Moab

2011-03-20T07:14:00.003-06:00

For Christmas this past year, Christian gave John and I a weekend at the Sorrel Ranch in Moab. This is the weekend we are going to take advantage of it. We are so excited.

This ranch is located on a beautiful river. Our room overlooks the river and has a beautiful fireplace which I sat beside many hours while there. The grounds were equally beautiful. Horseback riding, volleyball, hiking trails and much more.

We had dinner at the Ranch which was one of the best meals I have ever eaten. I had duck and John had lamb. Half way through our meal we traded plates because they were both so great we each wanted to have some of each others food. It wasn't good enough to just have a taste or two.

Unfortunately it was raining when we were done with dinner so we head right back to our room. We wanted to take a stroll in the moon light but that was a no go.

We slept in but still was able to eat and get on our hike before the sun crested the red rocks surrounding this ranch. We were so excited to get these great pics.

Our hike was amazing as hiking in the Moab area is always amazing. The red rocks, the fresh air, the huge tumble weeds........

We had such a fun weekend together. Catching up on the weeks that we have been apart. Just quiet time. Back to reality now.

Auto-Rama

2011-03-05T18:00:00.005-07:00

Today is Auto-Rama at SouthTown.

Christian has been working on his car for a few months in order to get it ready for the car showing season. This show is the first in a long line of shows he will be participating in.

As you may know his baby is named Maggie. It is a Dodge Magnum SRT/8 with a 428 Hemi engine with a Super-Charger. All that power under the hood equals about 700 horse power. Yes it is fast.

Last year, his beloved Maggie was featured in Mopar Enthusiast Magazine. The paint was black on the bottom, Lime Time green on top and Monster Purple stripe. The cluster was Lime Time green as well as other controls. Under the hood the engine was powder coated Green as well as many other items green and black.

This year, Pearl White with a touch of Gold added into the paint. It has ghost images on the sides. Cluster, Pearl white. Other controls are brushed nickel. Under the hood is also different. The engine was powder coated to look like brushed nickel and other components are now black.

WOW! This car looks amazing.

The show was great. His car was was asked to be in the Thunderstruck booth. Sometimes venders ask show car owners to show their car in the vendors booth. It helps to attract more people to their booth.

Christians car won 2nd in class! Great accomplishment son.

REALLY???

2010-12-24T21:56:00.001-07:00

Nicole fell 2 weeks ago and broke her right ankle, open fracture. She has been in a cast and on crutches. No weight bearing.

Then the following week she got caught up in her cast and crutches and slipped and broke the other foot. This foot in a walking cast.

2 nights ago she and Christian had been at a family gathering. On the way home they stopped for a RedBox at Maverick. She slipped in the parking lot and fell on her arm. it was hurting quite a bit but we just iced it and did some cold laser on it to help with the pain and inflammation. Well, the swelling was not going down and the pain was going up so I took her to Urgent care for an X-ray.

Dunt dunt dunt duh.....

Nicole broke her shoulder in 3 places. Are you kidding? Really? SO, here we have it. 1 broken ankle, 1 broken foot, and 1 broken shoulder. What a Christmas this will be.

This is a roller coaster that I want off of NOW.

Emergancy trip back to the hospital

2010-10-30T22:13:00.002-06:00

Nicole and I are in California so I can go to a conference with John. She and I drove here yesterday. What a trooper she has been. Surgery a few days ago and now here. This conference was schedule months ago and this surgery was the only time this Dr. could do it while she was still on rotation. So we rolled with it.

Last night the winds in So. Cal. were very strong. A lot of junk in the air. Sitting outside on the patio enjoying the weather something got into Nicole's eye. We cleaned it out as best we could and she went to bed but when we woke up this morning her eye was swollen practically shut and had junk coming out of it. John and I got a flashlight and looked in as best as we could. It didn't look good. As a matter of fact it look as though it was cut and open about 3 mm.

Down to the ER in San Clemente we drove. I have to say, the people working there were so nice, so on top of things and so fast. We have been in many hospitals over the years and I would say they are top rated. The Dr. came in very quickly, was thorough and quick., Her bedside was by far one of the best we have come across.

Yes, Nicole did have quite a large cut in her eye and still had debris in it. It was also infected. I felt so bad. They got right to work and got her hooked up fast. Washed it out, medicated it, bandaged us up and we were out of there. WOW! Refreshing. in and out in practically no time at all and service...top notch.

Nicole is already on the mend.

Integra

2010-10-25T15:10:00.005-06:00

Today we are seeing the light at the end of a VERY long tunnel. At 12:45pm Nicole was wheeled into surgery. The light is if all goes well this may very well be the second to last surgery. It is a 2 part surgery. Today they are taking out scar tissue and other tissue and putting in this special material (Integra)that will act in place of dermas. After the body has grown blood vessels into the Integra to surgery she will go again. This time to graphed over it.

Dr. Cochran was just here. Nicole is out of surgery now. She came out of surgery combative and ripped one surgery sight causing bleeding but that was quickly remedied. Surgery was performed on 4 sights today. Neck, both axillary and behind right knee. Each area did well. The knee was a redo. The back of her knee was an open area most of the time. This time they opened it up and found that the graph was adhered to the tendon and there fore was tight and kept the area back there from healing. Quite a large piece of Integra was put there and in turn should keep that area from re adhering again so her knee should heal fine.

I am relieved this one is over. 4 areas in a lot and a long time in surgery. Nicole has been blessed with great doctors and steady hands. We too are blessed with continued prayers on her behalf. We have many causes for us to stop and thank God for all He has done for Nicole and our family.

Dallas

2010-10-24T19:09:00.001-06:00

Nicole and I went to Dallas for 3 days to see our dear friend, Dr. Kimberly Jones. She is amazing.

I took Nicole there to have a few visits with her. She works with people who have food and environment sensitivities. Nicole, since getting out of the hospital last year has had trouble when
she eats gluten and dairy as well as she is having severe bone loss and cannot absorb vitamin D.

During the initial testing it was confirmed that Nicole indeed has a sensitivity to gluten and casein. She is also is sensitive to Calcium which may be why she is not absorbing vitamin D. A few other things showed up also which we will treat for over the next few days. Now for the the treatments to begin. They will take several hours between each treatment of each item. AND no eating of the item or anything related to it for 25 hrs after each treatment. That really doesn't leave much to eat for the next 3 days.

3 days later.....Nicole already feels a difference. She feels not as sick to her stomach when she eats. This is a winner. Now we are off to (sshh) Sam Moon. (It's a secret)

Yes, Sam Moon is my favorite place to shop in Dallas. Yes, many dollars are dropped in this store. This is why it is a secret. We don't want John to know I am shopping here again. I do have an agenda this time and I do have a budget I supposed that will make John happy. Do you want to know what is on my agenda? Only 5 bracelets to go with necklaces I already have, a pair of earrings to make up for the ones I broke the other day and a Pashmina.

My shopping trip was a hit. I did get a new Pashmina as well as 3 pairs of earrings, none of which was like the ones I broke and 4 bracelets. Total cost....35 dollars. Yeah for me. Yeah for John.

Leg surgery

2010-10-18T23:47:00.000-06:00

A while back Nicole's doctors had been talking about what they were going to do to fix her leg. One of the problems she has is the back of one leg was so severely destroyed with the burn that they had to take quite a bit of muscle and tissue out. Since then she has had many open areas that don't close because of the tightness.

Dr. Agarwal had suggested putting in these small bladders and then filling them up with fluid a little at a time to stretch the skin. After about 6 weeks the skin then would be large enough to stretch around the area in question and then hopefully given the more skin there, the area would then heal. In the mean time one of the burn docs wondered if maybe it was a tendon that was too tight causing the problem. We decided to go with the least invasive surgery and see what happens. We can do the other surgery if this one doesn't work.

So, today is the day. Dr. Cochran will open the area in question, take out some tissue and do a new graph which will come off her hip. While she is doing that she will also have her neck, in the front, where there is a very tight band and do a skin graph there also and hopefully release that area so Nicole can move her head forward and backward better. There are also a few tight bands in the axilla area that will also get skin graphs.

Good news! This was the surgery choice we should have taken. When Dr. Cochran opened up the back of Nicole's leg she found that the old graph had adhered to the other tissue making it so each time she moved her leg to walk or bend it to sit down it would rip the outside skin. Thus causing the area to keep opening and causing ulcerations and open lesions.

We are so glad this option was available before we did the other surgery to put in the bladders. That surgery would have taken 3-6 months before it was finished.

Nicole has wound vacuums on each area. Each area is hooked up to a machine that sucks the air out and puts continual pressure on the area. It promotes better wound healing. I hope these work as well as they say they do. Nicole will be staying in the hospital for about a week. She will then go home with the wound vacs that she will need to keep on for several weeks.

Denver

2010-10-17T21:09:00.001-06:00

Oh my! I flew to Denver this weekend to meet my Lover who was attending a conference. I was like a little kid as a started preparing earlier in the week for this amazing weekend. Even though I knew he was going to be at the conference most of the time this was also a retreat for me. Sleeping in, Breakfast in bed, Hot Tubbing. AAANNNDDD Spending the evenings with my Lover.

Earlier in the week our friend of many years, Paul Roberts, passed away. Not suddenly, he has been battling cancer for months. John was asked to speak at his funeral which was Friday night. He felt honored to be asked so speak to honor his friend.

I am flying into Denver Friday morning in order to go to the Temple and relax for the afternoon preparing for my Lover to arrive. because the funeral is a night funeral, John doesn't leave Wichita until 10pm arriving at 4am. I am there waiting for him dosing on and off while reading and watching TV. Oh, it is so great to be in the arms of the one I love.

No breakfast in bed this morning. Up too late :( . John has to rush off to his conference and I am going to go with him for a while this morning in order to get a few goodies on the breakfast bar they provide.

I am off the shop at Park Meadows Mall, one of my favorite places to shop. I just love the variety of shops there. I also went back to the Temple. Even though I live near several I never pass up the chance to attend the Temple wherever we travel. I also had a chance to jsut sit outside hte Temple and contemplate the many blessings in my life. One of which is just a few miles away waiting for me. That brings a smile to my face.

I brought back takeout to the hotel so we could just have a quiet night in together. I can't tell you how many times I have eaten P.F. Changes in a hotel room. I love it AND it is still great when it is not hot off the grill and still good as leftovers.

Waiting....Waiting....Waiting.... Good thing I am a great waiter.

Do I hear a knocking on the door? Yes!! My Lover has arrived! Butterflies still invade my belly when I know I am going to see him. I open the door and my heart leaps. It is him. My day is complete.

How I am grateful for this man of mine. The one God choose for me. The one who makes my everyday. The one who without him I would only be half of me. Together WE2ARE1.

It doesn't get better then this.

Idaho, Again

2010-10-13T23:08:00.002-06:00

Here we are in Idaho one more time to not only make sure my uncle is getting the right care but also to bring many of his belongings back to him. Last year we came here to get his most treasured belongings. He had been in a nursing care facility for many months and his home had been unoccupied. We didn't want vandals to come in and take things (that already happened with the in home care company that was coming). Now we are bringing back the things he needs most.

First we unload everything and do some cleaning to make sure all is well at the home. Lunch arrives (Meals on Wheels) while we are there so we can keep working. Just one more thing we don't have to do. Then it is off the state agencies to check on their progress. I hope we will find good things in the works.

As with anything in government it is a slow process. Yes, somethings are in place but others were kind of forgotten. I am glad we are here today to remind them what he needs and what they are supposed to provide. I guess we will be back again for another inspection.

This has been a good learning experience for my mom and Nicole. The many, many things that needs to be done and said to get through all the hoops the government makes everyone jump through. Maybe I should write a book on the ins and outs of RED TAPE.

I am grateful for the chance to help my uncle. He may not be grateful to us but I know in the long run it will not only help him but give my mom peace of mind that she is 4 hrs away and can not just run there if something happens. There are now measures put in place to help him and make sure he has food, a clean environment and health care.

Corn Bellys

2010-10-11T22:07:00.003-06:00

CORN BELLY'S!!!!

If you have not been to Corn Belly's and you live in the SLCo or UTCo Area you really need to venture there.

This festivity is at Thanksgiving Point. There are 3 corn mazes. Nicole and I did 2 of them. They have maps and are timed. You will find clues along the way and if you have a SmartPhone you will get clues sent to your phone by your GPS. It is really fun. There really isn't any way to get lost because you can always cut through the corn hedges, but what fun would that be?

After the corn mazes we headed over to the shooting gallery. Actually, we were able to shoot gourds of all shapes and sizes. The targets? A beat-up old truck, flower pots, tires, old milk cans and moving targets. The gourds fit right into real bazookas. It was so much fun.

We took a hay ride and walked inside of a dragon, from its mouth to its tail. It even made growling noises when we got to the stomach area.

We took a break because it was kind of getting cold and headed over to one of the huge bonfires that were roaring in the area. As we approached the smell of burning wood and hearing the crackling of the hot embers was so inviting . I just wanted to stay there the rest of the night. We drank Hot Cocoa and made S'mores with the marshmallows, crackers and chocolate we were able to purchase from the country store near by. 5 dollars for a bag that made 6 S'mores and you got 2 sticks to roast the marshmallows, too. I am in HEAVEN. I love roasting marshmallows and I love hot cocoa. 2 of my most favorite things in the whole world.

To round the evening out Nicole and I had our pictures taken in a huge rocking chair that made us look tiny. Oh yeah, we had to make a stop at the pumpkin patch, too. Nothing like choosing a pumpkin right where it is grown. What a fun day out.

Dale and Teri

2010-10-11T20:06:00.001-06:00

Our dear friends, the Orr's paid us a visit this weekend. Oh how great it was to see them. We have been friends since 1999.

Our friendship began on a temple trip from Wichita, KS to Dallas, Texas. I really didn't want to drive with people I didn't know but I am so glad I did. Teri and I forged an amazing friendship.

It is the kind of friendship that even if you don't talk to the other person for weeks you just pick up right where you left off. Our children are friends also.

We have been through many thing over the years with them. Thick and thin, Good and bad, Fun times and not so fun but always love and support from all parties on all sides.

Each one of them means something special to us. Their smiles, laughter, hugs and love makes our days even when we live many miles apart. Our sweet friends live in AZ now. All the more reason to visit them in the Valley of the Sun.

We love you guys.

Post Sugery

2010-09-28T23:41:00.002-06:00

Nicole had her bandages taken off today. WOW! Is all I can say. The new areas look so wonderful. As the swelling comes down I know it will just get better and better. Isn't amazing the medical technology these days. I know we have great technology and have had for years but it just seems like things are getting better and better.

Her doctor is very pleased with they way her torso looks and will look as she heals more and the swelling goes away. In the next 3 months we will have the end result to look at. Thank you Dr. Agarwal for helping to make this happen.

Block Party

2010-09-24T22:04:00.002-06:00

Our neighborhood had it annual block party tonight. I know many people who have block parties in their area but I do have to say this one was rocking, literally.

We had a live band. Yup! They were terrific. We barbecued and everyone brought things to share. What great chefs we have in this neighborhood.

We loved getting to know our neighbors better and meeting several we had not have the pleasure of meeting before. We learned so much and look forward to getting to know others better.

Thanks to all who planned, set up, cleaned up, donated time and effort so everyone could have such a great time.

We are looking forward to next years festivities.

Nicole's Torso Reconstruction

2010-09-22T23:11:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it has been so long since I have updated our blog. I have a lot of catching up to do. Even though this is being typed up Feb 28, 2011 I am back dating this as well a few more so they look like they have been done on the date in chronological order.

Today, Nicole is having her torso reconstructed. This particular surgery has been a long time coming. The burn doctors did a great job when they were doing her graphs on her torso but it left her very misshapen-ed. So now is the time to fix this area and give her more shape.

We choose Dr. Cori Agarwal. She is a wonderful plastic surgeon. We had many talks about what was going to be done, how things would look different and what the end results were going to be. (She is also the doctor that will do the reconstructing of her leg.)

The surgery went extremely well. Nicole will stay in the hospital a few days and then she will be home. So far, what I know of how this went, it looks as though this was a huge success. I guess we will see in a few days when the bandages come off.

Idaho

2010-09-20T23:03:00.002-06:00

I went to Idaho today with my mom to guide her through the maze of state agencies. Her brother is living alone in his home. It may not seem like a bad thing, he is only 73, but, he is an amputee as well and is full time in a wheel chair and has Parkinson's disease. He needs full time care but is too stubborn to accept it. Thank goodness he does allow someone to come in a couple of times a day to help him.

He doesn't always make the most logical decisions. So we have gone to Idaho to find some agencies that can render aid to him in various areas. Since working with many state agencies over the years I know my way around getting services from which place. It is a lot of leg work but so worth it in the end.

We looked at getting a circuit breaker for his taxes on his home. We also went to the state to see what medical services the could offer that they currently are not doing.

I even called the local bishop for the area which he lives. My uncle is not a member of our church and many people don't know that a bishop is responsible for ALL the people living within the boundaries of the ward, member and non member alike. He was wonderful, offering to come by each week and check on his welfare as well as getting the scouts to help with some yard and home things. I don't know if he feels the love but I sure do. I love knowing I belong to a church that is the same in KS as UT as ID. And around the world. There are people out there that care not only if you are of the same faith but care because you are their neighbor.

We didn't get as much accomplished as I wanted to, but we did get the ball rolling. I am so glad I can help him when he can't help himself. It is frustrating but I feel I have at least some knowledge to help the situation.

I know we will be revisiting this again in the not so distant future.

TOFW Boise

2010-09-17T22:02:00.002-06:00

How I love Time Out For Women.

Nicole and I drove to Boise this weekend to attend Time Out For Women. What a weekend. TOFW is uplifting, mentally and spiritually recharging and give my whole being a tune up.

The line up:
Mercy River: This is why we went to Boise. Nicole loves her some Mercy River. 3 women who's voices are a breath of fresh air. They meld together beautifully. To top it off...Drum Roll Please.... On our way up to our hotel room we were about to step on the elevator and who was there? Yup, you guessed it 2 of the three Mercy River Gals. Brooke and Whitney. Oh my. I could hardly contain Nicole. They were very gracious. We were able to gab to them for about 15 minutes. Soni, their other band mate was resting as she was about to deliver a baby and had been having contractions all day. TOTALLY MADE NICOLE'S WHOLE WEEKEND.

DeAnne Flynn, Amanda Dickson, Emily Freeman, Linda Eyer and Shawni Eyer Pothier, Mariama Kallon and Jerico Road. ( A Boy Band ) Each of these people spoke on subjects that are dear to them. Maybe they wrote a book about it or maybe they have lectured about it before. But, whatever it may be they are passionate about it.

Each year I go a few times. I have been 16 times. I have been with Nicole 4 times. Each time I take my notebook, that I take every time, and add to it my thoughts and inspirations I receive when I hear the offerings of Time Out For Women.

One day I will get out my notebook and post some of the incredible insights and words of wisdom I wrote down.

What a weekend I had with my daughter. She so enjoyed it and in turn I enjoyed it more. Not only being able to share it with her, as I wondered a year ago if I would ever be attending another Time Out For Women with her, but to know I am a better person because of it.

UTAH STATE FAIR!!!

2010-09-09T23:00:00.001-06:00

We love the state fair. Ever since John and I took the kids to the Texas State Fair we have been hooked.

Christian, Nicole and I headed out tonight amidst the rain as it was the only night we could all go together.

The first thing we went in search of was a fried Snickers bar. Christian said they ere amazing. We found them alright. The line was very long but we waited. Not only did they have fried Snickers but also fried Twinkies and fried Oreo's.

What would a state fair be like with out going to see the animals. We saw everything...goats, cows, chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep and horses. The Utah state fair is different then the Kansas state fair. We like to to see the buildings where everyone is hocking their wares. There was minimal at this state fair. Not that I need to buy anything but it is fun to see all the stuff.

We went to a comedy show at the grandstand. It was pretty funny. When it was over as we were walking back to find another fried snickers we passed by the giant slide. you know the one. You climb the very tall stairs, you sit in a gunny sack, push off
And swoosh...over the first hump, over the second hump and gliding into the carpet area at the bottom. That was so fun especially because we all did it together.

Canning

2010-09-08T21:00:00.001-06:00

OH MY GOODNESS!!!

Can you say bountiful harvest?

I have been canning my guts out. I haven't canned in years and I rekindled the bug in me. I went out the the polygamist place in Draper and purchased 3 bushels of tomatoes as well as half bushel of onions and peppers. I came home and got right to work.

24 pint bottles of chili sauce. ( a recipe that has been passed down though generations) for over 150 years. I also canned 18 quarts of diced tomatoes, 6 pints of ketchup, 12 quarts of V-12, 36 pints of salsa. The salsa Nicole made this year all on her own. She did such a wonderful job.

Then I moved on to meats. 12 bottles of pepper steak, 6 bottles of Sicilian chicken soup, 12 bottles of chili verde and 8 bottles of pulled barbecued pork.

Can't can without making some freezer jam. 24 pints of UT peach freezer jam, 24 quarts of sliced peaches, 6 pints of strawberry freezer jam and peach puree.

I have to tell you also...this years fruit leather was the best I think I have ever made. Maybe because the peaches were so sweet adn fresh. I don't know btu we got about 150 rolls of peach leather, 50 of apple leather, 20 of pear leather and 50of cherry leather.

Dr. Fletcher

2010-09-07T14:59:00.001-06:00

What can I say about this man. WOW! What a God send in my life.

I was Diagnoses with Central Serous Retinopathy about 5 years ago. I discovered my vision diminishing so I went in to have my eyes examined. That doctor sent me to a specialist who diagnosed me. I couldn't believe it. Me, losing vision in my left eye. The doctor said it probably had been happening for a couple of years but because the vision in my right eye was so good it just took over.

The vision lose was so gradual I didn't even notice that my world had turned from 3-D to 2-D. My worst fear was not being able to see well enough to drive and then to lose my vision all together. The specialist said there really wasn't anything he could do but come back if I totally lost the vision and he would see what he could do then.

Well, that was unacceptable. I found another doctor who only sees CSR patients. He is in UT. We made the trek to Utah to consult with him. He said pretty much the same thing. I couldn't believe it. I started planning things I wanted to see and do in case I lost my vision.

Now, 5 years later I have started loosing the vision in my right eye as well.

Then in steps Dr. Fletcher. He practices a few days a month in Wichita as well as a few days in San Fransisco and Orlando. I thought we traveled a lot. John met him at church and told him about my eyes. He told John that he had pioneered stuff that was just for CSR. John made an appointment for the next time he and I were in town together. Well, that day was today.

I was scared and hopeful. Even though we brought the scans and test results from the other docs, he also did his own. When he was done he gave us the results. Some of the tests are test he invented that other docs use now.

Yes, I did have CSR. Yes, I was loosing vision but, I had adapted to my difficulties better then any other person he had worked with. I am a cheat reader. I have had the ability to read very fast in the past. That skill, unbeknowst to me, has helped me continue to be able to read. My eyes go over the words so fast that even though some letters are missing as I read my brain puts together the missing pieces.

He also told me that I would be able to drive for many years to come. Yes, I can't pass the eye test at the DMV but he will give me a letter stating the diagnosis and clear me to drive. I was happy about that. And he said that even though i have difficulties reading and a few other things that I not go totally blind. He gave me exercises to do to keep my eyes strong AND....

He gave me HOPE!

(By the way, he also told me that reading in dim light doesn't effect your eyes like so many people think) Good because I don't like bright light.

Dad's Birthday

2010-09-06T20:58:00.001-06:00

Dad, HaPpY bIrThDaY to you. 81, I can't believe it.

What a morning we had with you. We ate at the Dodo in Sugarhouse. We all talked about when we ate at the Dodo downtown years ago. I know you loved having the kids there to help you celebrate.

Sometimes it is hard to tell you my feelings but I want you to know I love you even tough you make me crazy sometimes.

I wish I had some childhood memories to put here but I really don't have any one my own. I only have ones that every else has told me. I don't really remember you building the tree house but I do know I played in it many many days and had many sleepovers in it.

I played every sport under the sun and you and mom were always there supporting me.

I love you.

Reconstruction for Nicole

2010-08-25T20:54:00.002-06:00

Nicole had reconstructive surgery today on her torso. The doctor took out a lot of tissue and repositioned things so her torso is more symmetrical. She also did a graph too.

Nicole will be in the hospital for a few days and then she should have a short recovery.

We are grateful for the knowledge these great surgeons have. They have really brought it when they have worked on Nicole.

We will be looking forward to being recovered form this and on to the next upcoming surgeries. As it sits today there will be 6 more but that can always change. The next one will be inserting bladders into Nicole's leg and filling it with fluid to expand the skin. When it has expanded for 6-8 weeks they will take them out and pull the skin around to cover the back of her leg. If there is not enough skin, when she is healed form that they will have to do the whole process over. Hopefully that will help the back of her leg heal better.

Aunt Kelli

2010-08-24T20:49:00.002-06:00

I love Aunt Kelli. She is my husband's aunt but I am glad I can call her MY AUNT too.

She is here for a visit for a couple of weeks and love to spend time with her. We were lucky enough to have a sleep over with her. We all had fun spending time with her.

John's sisters, mom and nieces all went to Thaifoon for lunch one day. The company was better then the food but that is the way it should be.

We also had a barbecue at our home with all the family. I just love to get together with John's family. They are so much fun. They are all very good cooks so when there is food involved no one goes hungry.

The camera's are always snapping to catch a smile or a child doing something cute. We also have to have pictures with everyone together. All the nieces, all the sisters, all the sibs and so on.

Some things I love about Aunt Kelli.....

1. She is a great cook.
2. She always makes each person feel like they are the only ones in the room.
3. She doesn't judge.
4. She loves the gospel. I mean really loves it.
5. When I visit her she doesn't put time constraints on us.
6. She loves eating at my favorite place on the pier. Actually she was the one who introduced it to me.
7. She is the mother of my favorite cousin.
8. She is a great example to me.

Thank you for all the memories, all the love, all advice.

Happy Birthday Lover

2010-08-22T23:53:00.004-06:00

It's your birthday, Shout hooray!
I'm gonna sing to you today,
One year older and wiser, too
Happy Birthday, To You!!!

You, my lover, it's the celebration of you coming into the world. I am so glad you did. What would my life be like without you. You brighten each and every one of my days. You keep a smile on my face. When the chips are down, you are the first to help me see the chips are not as far down as I see them.

We have made many memories over the years. Some I would like to forget. A few that come directly to my mind are:

1. The day of our meeting, cold and snowy. I was so impressed you pulled the car up to the door for your mother so she didn't have to get snowy. What a gentleman. I felt the minute I saw you I knew you we would meet and be together forever. We must have been in love in Heaven.

2. The birth of our children. Each one so different. You the constant. You were never flustered. Loving them right out of the womb. Christian you took straight to your chest, muck and all. Bonding right away. Running to ICU with Nicole as they were rushing her away not knowing what was going on but making sure she wasn't alone.

3. The summer we spent in Jackson Hole with you as a river guide. Now that was a great summer. We became expert campers that year. We always loved to camp and hike but that year we fell in love with it. So then the next year we went on a 3 week camping trip to WY, ID, WA and Canada. What a trip we had.

4. Starting out our move to Texas with prayer as we each piled into our vehicles with our traveling buddy with us. You with miss Nicole and me with master Christian. Snacks to match our tastes, of course you and Nicole had to have sardines. Christian and I were so happy to NOT be in your vehicle.

That being just the first 6 years of marriage. So many, many more things to love about you.

I appreciate the kind and caring way you love me. You show me in so many ways. I love how you catch my eye from across the room and how I know you love me by our secret facial expression.

How many times you sat up with the kids when they were ill. As much as I cared for them in the day you were the one to get up with them in the night. Not only did that act of kindness show me how much you cared for our children it showed them how much you care for all of us.

I am grateful, Johnny, that you love God and Jesus Christ. I am grateful you hold the priesthood of God and you exercise it regularly. I am grateful I can come to you for a blessing of comfort, healing and health or any other reason I may need. I am grateful to know we have been sealed together for time and all eternity. One day, our family, forward and backwards, will be together forever.

You are a hero to me.

I love you.

Las Vegas

2010-08-22T22:52:00.002-06:00

After lunch with my mom a few days ago I threw my suitcase in the car and drove to Las Vegas to meet up with John. We went to a conference but found some time to play too. We met up with people we had not seen for a while (they were also attending the conference). What a great weekend we had. I always learn something when attending things like this. I wish I had my notes with me at this very moment. I wrote down many thought provoking words. I will have to go back and read them.

Some of my favorite parts of my weekend.....sunning myself by the pool at Cesaer's Palace. Getting an all you can eat pass for a 24 hr period.you think that would be breakfast lunch and dinner. Nope. We got it at like 9am so we were able to eat breakfast lunch dinner and breakfast again. It was good at 9 hotels. If I was a big eater we could have just hotel hopped all day long and eat at all of them.

These little getaways have been so good for me and John. It is fantastic even to be with him for a few days. My most favorite part of being with John is waking up in the morning and he is right there. It makes for a wonderful day. Nothing says more to me about how much he loves me then when I wake up and he has his arms wrapped around me.

After I took John to the airport I started back to Salt Lake City. Time to just unwind, reflect on the weekend and my time with John and plan my next getaway.

Mom's birthday

2010-08-19T20:47:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday MOM

Today is my mom's birthday. What a day to celebrate. She is 79 years old. Now years ago I would have thought that was old but today it is not how I think. She is vibrant, capable, caring for herself and my dad. Many people her age are either in a home or dead or wish they were dead.

I took her today to lunch. She has never had Thai food so today was the day. We went to Saw-wa-dee. Have you ever been there? If there is better Thai food in this valley I would like to know about it. My sister Kim went also as she was in town. What a fun time we had especially since SLC was having a "THAI-foon". (get it) It was raining heavily.

After our delish lunch we ventured over to Hatch family chocolates for dessert. Of course I had a pot o creme and a pretzel dipped in caramel and chocolate. I was in heaven.

I love you mom.

The kiddos

2010-08-12T21:35:00.002-06:00

John, Nicole and I went to Kansas City today for a conference. Well we didn't go to the conference, it was for John. But, Nicole and I were able to stay with Ladd and Sarah. Oh how we love to stay with them and hang out. It is one of my most favorite things to do.

Nicole and I offered to hang out with the kiddos while Ladd and Sarah went out to dinner. We had ulterior motives. We brought firewood, skewers, stuff to make s'mores and a movie. We love these kiddos so much.

Well, bad news....It started to rain. We tried to start the fire in the rain but no bueno. Angi had a brilliant idea. We will roast our marshmallows at the stove. Jack-pot!

The kiddos had not ever made s'mores before. Not only was this a treat but an experience. 3 little ones sitting on the porch eating their own creations....it doesn't get better then that.

Christian - My Son

2010-08-08T22:30:00.001-06:00

25 years ago today you burst onto the scene. Actually burst may be a strong word. You never cried when you were born. You just looked around at the world and took it all in. Beautiful was the word that was used most often. You made us parents!

I can't believe how wonderful it is to be your mom. You, my son, are the light of my life. There are many memories that are swirling around in head today and all of them make up our life.

Remember when we moved to Texas and you and I drove our vehicle all the way together while your dad and Nicole drove in the moving van. "You just wanted that time with me", you said. What fun we had singing, playing card games and eating things 'we liked'.

Remember when we stayed up until 3am watching old movies. I think that was when you started liking musicals.

Remember when decided we were going on a 2 week camping trip to Canada. We started out by teaching you to fish in Washington. You were so sad when we cleaned it and cooked it and gave it to you for lunch. I think it traumatized you forever. (is that why you won't eat fish)?

Remember when you rode your bike to Wiles gas station with you sister to buy camels. You were only 3. Crossing busy Highland Drive by yourselves no less.

Remember when you got out of the car at school and didn't kiss me goodbye. I called you back and you told me, 'I will kiss you all the days of my life.' I loved that day.

Remember when I ran you over with the car....Oh yeah, I am sure you won't forget that day. You were so brave and I was the one falling apart and you told me it was OK. And then for Christmas you wrote me a letter telling me how much you loved me and you didn't blame me for running you over.

My favorite Mothers Day card was the one you made me in 4th grade. It had pressed flowers and leaves on the front yo had put there and then wrote a poem on the inside. LOVE IT.

You have been a constant in my life. You have been there for me when I have needed you. You have been an example to me and others in your life. You have shown others what it means to be a good person at heart not just at the moment. What an example you are.

Your life has not been an easy one many times. Mostly because of challenges you have borne with our family but borne them you have and are a better person for it.

So many times I have sat back at just watched you. I watch you quietly doing for others. I watch you studying for school learning many new things and applying them in your life. I watch you mastering your chef skills and wowing others you cook for.
I watch in amazement all you accomplish. I watch....I wonder....

I wonder how I got to be so lucky to be your mom and you my son.

I love you Christian. You are wonderful.

Nashville Tribute Concert

2010-08-05T23:06:00.001-06:00

I just love these guys! Did you know I love them? I have seen them perform a few times before, but I have always had to travel to see them like OKC for example but this time they were playing right in my back yard. Not MY back yard really but still only like 5 minutes away. Let me tell you about them.

While on a Mormon mission, Jason Deere, wrote the song: Lamb to the Slaughter. That was the beginning. After graduating from BYU her moved to Nashville, TN where he has made a name for himself writing amazing country songs. In 2003 he started writing more and more songs around the restoration and with the help of Dan Truman had enough material for an album. Joseph: A Nashville Tribute.

What an amazing piece of work. If you have never listened to it get it. Since that one they have also written another called Trek. Trek is good but Joseph is GREAT!

Anyway...getting back to the concert. Due West was there with them as well as a few others including the lovely Katherine Nelson.

The music is always beautiful, carries a message, makes you feel good type of music.

John, Nicole and I attended. What a great way to spend time together for an evening.

http://www.nashvilletributeband.com/

Married to the love of my life

2010-08-02T18:57:00.001-06:00

I married my lover today 26 years ago. What a glorious day it was. There is nothing like being in love with your one and only. My gift from God.

John, you are my dream. You make my life worth living. You make everyday a holiday just by waking up next to you.

I am grateful we were lead to each other. I am grateful for that fateful day we met. From that day forward my life has gotten better and better. No one makes me feel like you do, no one could. No other person makes me feel so alive.

You treat me like a queen. You feel my heart with joy. You fill my bucket. When I feel like I am hanging at the bottom of my rope, you tie another length onto it with a giant knot so I can hang on again.

You amaze me everyday.

Thank you for the great example you are to our children. Thank you for respecting me. Thank you for knowing what I need before I even know it myself. Thanks you for being you and for loving me.

Thank you Heavenly Father for knowing ALL my needs and leading John and I to the same space in time.

Nicole's Birthday

2010-07-31T22:55:00.001-06:00

Nicole's Birthday was yesterday. We didn't get to celebrate her birthday properly so TODAY IS THE DAY!!!

It's your birthday, Shout hooray! I'm gonna sing to you today. One year older and wiser, too. Happy Birthday, to you!!!

I can't believe that we are celebrating her birthday today. Last year I wondered if we would have any more birthday with sweet Nicole. Well, here we are sweet girl. You are 24.

We celebrated today by going to Snowbird and getting a pass to ride the zip line, alpine slide and all the other things there is to do there. We 'panned' for gem stones while there. I think that Nicole like doing this activity the best. Christian helped her 'pan'. It was kind of crazy at this time because a storm was crawling up the canyon. High winds, thunder and lightning. We had to skedaddle before the storm came, unfortunately, so we continued our party at Texas Roadhouse.

Nicole loved being on the saddle and having her picture taken for her birthday. It is kind of embarrassing but she loved it. Afterward we came home and had cake. Actually it wasn't cake, it was Nothing Bundt Cake minis. Each person got their own cake with a candle on it that Nicole blew out.

What fun we had, especially spending the day together.

Happy Birthday, Sweet Nicole!

Natalie and Spencer

2010-07-30T22:43:00.001-06:00

Natalie and Spencer we sealed for time and all eternity in the Timpanogus Temple.

We are so proud of them. Natalie is John's cousins daughter. She is one of Christian's best friends. They have been very close over the last few years. She has spent many, many days in our home and being a part of our family. We have grown close to her especially the past 3 years.

Enter Spencer....He is the light of her life. We have been able to know Spencer this past year or so. He has brought much joy into her life.

Today we share their joy as they are sealed. We were privileged to attend the sealing and wedding luncheon. Christian also came to the luncheon but Nicole needed to rest.

Later that night we went to the reception at Aspen Grove. What a beautiful setting.

We love you guys. Many happy years to come.

Time with Dawn

2010-07-29T13:03:00.001-06:00

Dawn and I have had many adventures this week.

Monday we went to Hogle Zoo. We love going to the zoo. As far as zoos go Hogle zoo is a pretty good one although together we have been to some great zoos. Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Greater Vancouver Zoo in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, KS. I am sure there are more I just can't think of them right now.

With the myriad of things that need to happen in our home in the morning with Nicole it is hard to get out the door much before 10. Unfortunately it is already hot at that time. This has been one hot week. We melted every place we went.

Tuesday we ventured to Thanksgiving Point Gardens. They are beautiful. They have many varieties of flowers and plants I have never seen. We spoke to one of the gardeners who helped us with the names of several varieties which I wrote down and hope to have in my garden one day.

Wednesday in the evening all my sisters: Kim, Dawn, Dana, my parents and my self went to dinner at Olive Garden. I don't think we have all been to dinner together in years. It was nice to be together. After we went to my parents home for more visiting. My mom gave me my baby necklace that I wore as a baby and small child. I put it on right them. I love it.

I had so much fun this week with my sissy. We love spending time together. I am grateful for the love she shows me. I am grateful for the example she is to me of loving kindness. She is a person I can turn too. I can tell her anything without feeling judged or being belittled. I love her for who she is and her example to me.

Happy Pioneer Day

2010-07-24T23:37:00.001-06:00

This is one day I really look forward to. I love the celebration of the Mormon pioneers coming to the the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. The whole state is involved. Even if you are not of the LDS faith, this celebration represents what made this state what it is.

I have been cleaning like mad this week to be ready for this day. I didn't want anything to interrupt the festivities. We start the day with the parade. This parade is one of the largest in the country. We watched it on TV today but it is so fun to go to the parade.

My sister Dawn flew into town today to spend sometime with me before she leaves to go to Europe on a cruise (fun for her) So I invited my parents, my sister Dana and her husband Gary as well as their kids over for BBQ and home fireworks.

We had a great time. Food was fantastic. Everyone stayed late and just hung out talking. We haven't done that is so long.

When darkness descended we lit fireworks in the street. Many of the neighborhood kids came over and watched too. Nothing better then food, fun and family. (Well, it could have been better if John was here.)

Reconstruction

2010-07-19T14:08:00.002-06:00

Nicole had a consultation with a doctor to have reconstruction preformed. The doctor seems to think that she can accomplish what needs to be done. Nicole's scar tissue on her torso are tightening and pulling her forward. Her shoulders are hunched and the skin on the upper torso needs to be released so she will be able to stand up straight.

While the doctor was examining Nicole she saw some areas that needed to be addresses. They are areas that we also wanted to be looked at, for example one of Nicole's legs had extensive damage. She had to have part of her gastroc and quads removed as well as tissue. With that being done the back of her leg is concave and the graphs have not healed very well. It keeps breaking open causing open areas.

It looks as though Nicole will be able to have some reconstruction to help her live a more normal life.

We do have one challenge though. We have to convince the insurance company that these surgeries will be beneficial for her continued recovery. Our prayers today are for that. God knows what this is like for her and I knows if this is what is best, it will happen.

Lamb's Day

2010-07-17T22:42:00.002-06:00

I love Lamb's Day in Fountain Green, UT. I haven't been since the kids were young but what fun we had.

This year Nicole and I went to the celebration. We packed up yesterday and headed out. We didn't get there until after dark so searching for a camping site was a trick. But, when we woke up we did good. Our camp site was great.

We started the day off by going to the parade. You know the kind. Where everyone know everyone. The floats are from all around the area. They have the parade princesses and all the other princesses from the area ie: the rodeo princesses for 10 towns. Everyone who wants to be in the parade can be. The fire dept, the police dept, the cub scouts, the car dealership. AND everyone throws candy!!. What a treat for all the kiddos. Even Nicole got into the act, the act of getting candy that is.

While at the parade Nicole had a seizure. As it would happen the EMS was going by in the parade. The parade stopped right then and there. Everyone piled out of the EMS truck to help. Well, there wasn't much they could do as we know so they just hung out until she came around just to make sure. Well, that was exciting.

After Nicole rested for quite a while we headed out to the park where all the festivities are located. There are booths with people selling things, there are jumping things and activites for kids. One of the things we thought would be fun is the hay find. It is where they put hay on a giant tarp. Then they put candy and MONEY in the hay for others to find. We always do this activity at our family reunion. They started off with the youngest of kiddos and went all the way up to adults. We cut it off at age 12 for our reunion. Everyone dives in searching frantically for anything they can find.

What a mad house. Nicole wanted to do it when it was time for the adults. I wasn't sure this was the greatest idea but who am I to deny her a little fun.

One, Two, Three, GO!

Women diving, hay flying, arms flailing. The women are worse then kids. What is up with how competitive they are. Nicole finally bows out cuz she is scared she will get hurt. Now that is sad.

We looked through all the booths and bought a princess crown with multi-colored streamers going down the back. Very cute. We also stopped at a booth that was doing face painting. I got a Lamb in commemoration of Lamb's Day. Nicole got Paw prints running up her arm.

To top the day off we got in the humongous line to purchase lamb sandwiches. These are not your ordinary lamb sandwiches. The lambs are cooked in the ground. They are not greasy and gross like some lamb is. They are tender, grease free and DELICIOUS! Nicole absolutely did not even what to try one but they were giving little sample out. She was in heaven. She ate 2 of them.

Can you say HOT and SWEATY? Today has been so hot. We decided to go back to the camp site. Eat dinner and then have a shower before heading back to the park for fireworks.

During our wonderful shower a nasty storm creeped up. The wind was whipping, debris was flying around and our tent was practically laying on the ground. Good thing it was secured by the tent pegs.

We made a snap decision to pack up and go home. We just threw stuff into the truck. The people in the next site over saw we were leaving and trying to get things packed so some of them came over to help while the rest of there tribe secured there camper. Have you ever tried to drop a tent in very windy conditions. I am sure from looking from the outside it would have been hilarious.

Well, no fireworks for us but we had a great time. Fun was had for both of us.

Empty Nesters FHE

2010-07-12T22:10:00.001-06:00

I never thought I would be in the category of Empty Nesters FHE. What does that mean you say? This is where adult that have no children living at home get together one time a month and share FHE. (Family Home Evening) We may have a lesson or a speaker. It is a great way to meet and get to know others in our congregation that we may not other wise know.

Tonight was my first experience with this. A couple came to speak about their mission in S. Dakota. What a great experience they had. Hearing them got my juices flowing. I so want to serve a mission with John on day.

I pray each day for that opportunity. I pray for the guidance for what I need to learn, read and experience. I pray for health and continued strength to meet the challenges that lay before us. I pray...

Do yo know I travel? A LOT!!!

2010-07-10T21:38:00.001-06:00

I am part of a travel club. It is kind of like Costco or Sam's club. You buy a membership and by doing so are entitled to go on these amazing trips at wholesale prices. Our travel club beats any trip you can find on the internet as well as our travel site for flights, hotels, cars, villas and package deals beats other travel sites % of the time.

I love to travel with my friends and family too, so I want them to join our travel club. We have over 400 trips planned this year alone. Everything from cruises to tours, Nascar to the Super Bowl. In the USA and abroad.

Today i went to Regional training in Salt Lake City today. What a day. I learned how to further my business of travel bookings and how to help others join me in the travel club.

Just wanted you to know I love to travel.

Kansas

2010-07-09T22:24:00.001-06:00

This past week Nicole and I have been in Kansas. We a fun week we had.

We went to Exploration Place. If you have never been it is rated in the top 5 children museums in the nation. (Parade Magazine) There are so many things to do there. We loved the flight displays. The displays sow all different kinds of flight. Birds, planes, paper airplanes and how air movement affects flight.

We also saw the grossology exhibit. All different things about the body that is 'gross'. Slimy, oozy, crusty, stinky things. Quite interesting. Check it out. We can't wait to go back when the Egypt exhibit is there.

Nicole and I hung out at the North-East YMCA many times. The pool there is great. Nicole can't stay out in the sun for too long but to get out and get some sun as well as be in the cool water is wonderful. This year we purchased Nicole a board shirt (the swim shirts that are long sleeved) and longer boarding shorts that come to her knees. They help to protect her from the sun but I really want to get her a swim suit like the racing swimmer wear. Have you ever seen them? They are one piece, long sleeved and long pant to the ankle. Something like that will help to protect her more. Although they start about $350. Quite an investment.

The time we spend in Wichita always go by so fast. Seeing people we haven't seen in a while, helping with the clinic, visiting things we haven't before or haven't for a while.

We miss Wichita but we love Utah too. We are grateful for people in both areas for the love they show us and kind deeds they do for us and prayers they send our way on a daily bases.

My sissy and me

2010-07-04T20:45:00.001-06:00

I think my sister Dawn and I are really twins born 7 years apart. When we get together it is non-stop fun. Too many times to count we have gone shopping together and pulled out the same thing at the same time for the other person to see.

A couple of years ago I was at her home in Spokane. She had been telling me she had re-decorated her bathroom and kitchen. I told her I had done the same not to long before. I was surprised when I walked in and she had the same things I did in my bathroom I started laughing so hard, tears streaming down my face. It shouldn't have surprised me at all as we have done that same thing before.

We have the same Capri's. They are so cute. When we got together this weekend we wore them together.

One year later

2010-07-04T02:58:00.001-06:00

One year ago today Nicole was in a fire. She was burned 60% 3rd degree. She was in ICU 140 days as University of Utah Burn Center.

SHE SURVIVED!

What a year we have been through. Nicole has made amazing strides. She has healed by leaps and bounds. Even the doctors have been amazed at her progress. We can thank the cold laser therapy and the healing powers from God.

Our family has grown through many difficulties presented to us during this past year. We have grown stronger and closer as a family. We have been so close to the veil we could practically touch it. We have been able to see the light at the end of the tunnel when we didn't think there would be light there.

God has granted us another season with Nicole. God has given us new eyes in which to see life through. Through God's infinite love we have survived.

You never know how strong you are until strong is your only choice.

Strengthened
Tested
Ready willing and able
Own it
Never give up
GOD

If I ever have to go through anything like this again I know I can make it. I know the lessons I learned during this last year will get me through. I know with God beside me I can do anything.

Thanks you for your prayers and your continued prayers on our families behalf. Thank you for the cards, letters, balloons, meals, cry sessions, counseling, ice cream, love, support, blankets, friendship and service.

David and Lisa

2010-07-03T22:39:00.002-06:00

Last night we were supposed to fly to Spokane to my nephews reception but our flight was canceled with no other flights going out tonight and with the holiday weekend all other flights are booked. I was so upset about not being able to got here and spend this special day with them. I called and told them and in their perfect faith they both prayed that God would some how get us on a flight to Spokane.

This morning John and I went out to the airport with not very high hopes that we could get on a flight. As they were calling all the stand by passengers our hopes of getting on was more and more dismal. The guy finally said no more passenger seats left. My heart sunk. Tears leaked from my eyes, trying to be strong I went to the podium and ask the man if by chance there might be room on another flight. He asked my name....he looked at the screen and said we had made this flight after all. OH MY GOSH! The faith of two kids and my faith not as strong as theirs.

John and I flew on to the plane. We both were so grateful to whom ever didn't get there in time to catch their flight out so we could get this one.

What a fun time we had. We got to see a new niece that we had never seen before. Hayleigh Dior is her name and is she a cutie patutie.

So many family and friends were there to help them celebrate this day.

After we hung out at my sisters home. We built a fire in the backyard and roasted marshmallows with the biggest marshmallows I had ever seen. We talked forever. I love my sissy. Thanks for having us and letting us share this day with you .

Nicole's seizures

2010-07-03T20:40:00.002-06:00

Nicole is having seizures again. Today she had 6 at the church while she was there helping with the July 4th breakfast. The Doctor cleared her and she went home. Through out the day she seemed fine.

Christian and Nicole had tickets to go to The Stadium of Fire and felt like she was well enough to go.

The Stadium of Fire was awesome. They enjoyed themselves and thing were going so well. Until the fireworks. Nicole started having seizures again. She had 9 this time. Of course paramedics were called and they took her to the hospital. She had stopped seizing before she arrived and they checked her out and was released.

I hope the meds she is on will continue to work and get these under control soon.

West Jordan Rodeo

2010-07-01T11:10:00.000-06:00

It's rodeo day!

We love going to the rodeo. We have been going to the Pretty Prairie rodeo yearly for about 15 years. Sometimes we go to multiple rodeos. This year we have already been to the Pretty Prairie rodeo, the Lehi rodeo and tonight, the West Jordan Rodeo.

This one is special for us because my nephew facilitates the whole rodeo and the whole family participates. His daughter, age 8, rides patterns and his wife, my niece runs barrels. Of course their son mutton busts too.

We has some much fun watching tonight but it was even more fun that we knew people there.

Our favorites are bull riding and barrels. The excitement and the electricity in the air is palpable. Its riveting to watch all the riders.

The announcer tonight is awesome. Great announcers make a rodeo. They are knowledgeable about the stock and riders. They are funny.

I want to tell my nieces and nephews what a great job they did. Thanks for all the work they have done this season.

One Scary Sabbath

2010-06-28T20:05:00.001-06:00

Yesterday started out to be like any normal Sabbath. John is in town and we are going to church as a family. I love our ward. I look forward to see each person there each week and enjoying their friendships.

John and I are sitting in Sunday school getting ready for it to begin when the 1st councilor in the bishopric came in beckoning us. He took off at a dead run and so did I.

There was Nicole laying in the hall way passed out. Now normally I would just assess her and watch her til she came around but you really can't do that when she is laid out at church. I was calm in trying to arouse her as others around are watching. She finally comes to the party. Well, that was exciting. John helps me get her to her feet and we take her home to sleep it off. Or so I thought.

I am helping her get into her pajamas after we get home when it happens again although this time she starts seizing. She is having cluster seizures. Those are where several happen in a row.

Over the course of the next 7 hours she has about 50 seizures. By 10 PM it seems like they are finally over. We put her to bed in our room so we can hear her better. I am not sleeping very well as I think that any minute she will start seizing. Midnight, 2AM, 3AM, 4AM nothing. I fall asleep around 4AM. 6AM and they start again. This time there are not as many clustering together. By 4PM Nicole has had a total of 71 seizures.

I finally speak to the doctor who has me come in. CT, MRI of course doesn't show anything. But she is admitted for observation as well as an EEG.

Please Heavenly Father, Help the doctors help Nicole.

Parting

2010-06-21T19:35:00.002-06:00

I put John on a plane this morning for him to go back to Wichita. I am driving back to UT. I miss the times we have together. I loved this time because even though we are working on ourselves, we have the time to be with each other, to bond again.

Thanks to the Orr's for the wonderful time we had, for opening up your home to us, for sharing your children with us.

It is a sad parting not only for John and I but for us saying goodbye to our dear friends. We love you guys. God really knew that we needed friends like you guys and I believe that is why he put us in each others paths. I thank God for you regularly.

Happy Fathers Day

2010-06-20T19:21:00.003-06:00

With Journey over now I can concentrate on John and celebrating Fathers Day. I am so glad we are able to be together today. We attended church with our friends and after barbecued with them too.

Our relationship with Dale and Teri is so easy. I know I have said it before but I am grateful to them for being so loving and giving to us over the years. We have shared good times and bad times together.

We reminisced over how we became friends. Years ago our stake was going to the temple in Dallas. Dale knew John and John invited then to go with us in our van to Dallas. Teri was unhappy that Dale had done that because she didn't know us and was afraid that she would be stuck in a vehicle for all that way with someone she didn't know and she might not like. Well, so much for that. We hit it off right from the start. What a great friend ship we have.

Today being fathers day I want John to know what a great father I know he is. Sometimes he doesn't think he is but I know he is. Right from the start he has been a hands on dad. Changing diapers, feeding, burping, bathing. Every night he would read to the kids. That was his area and time with the kids because he worked long hours and left before the kids ever woke in the morning.

He taught the kids about nature every where we went. Look at this tree, look at the way the river flows, here is this plant or that shrub. Fishing, camping, biking, skiing, hiking are all things John taught the kids to love.

We are obsessed with the full moon. Our children will call us each full moon to make sure we know it is full.

You are my one and only, the love of my life, the most amazing father and husband. You are my rock, you and my life line, you are an example to me. Thanks you for being teh father to our children and an example for them in all you do.

Journey Day 5

2010-06-19T21:12:00.001-06:00

Today was the last day of Journey. What a week. I am glad I went and more importantly I am grateful to have learned all the things I did about myself. John wants to attend next year and I know I will be ready to participate fully in a group setting. Nicole has been wanting to go to Journey for years and John and I both feel like next year will be her year to go.

I have a tool belt full of new tools to help me in my daily life. I have a new outlook on life. I have a new appreciation for others and the blessing I have been given.

I am grateful for the love my husband has for me, the support he gives me, the constant nourishment he gives my soul, the shoulders he bares me up with and the light he brings into my life. Thank you, Johnny, for believing in me. For allowing me to be my true self. No one else has every believed in me like you do. No one else has ever thought I could conquer the world like you do.

Journey Day 4

2010-06-18T19:01:00.002-06:00

The best thing about today is I reconnected with an old friend. Sherida! I saw her just as John saw her. She had been attending Journey this week too but with so many people here we didn't see her. It has been a quite a while since we have been in touch. What a great reunion we had.

We went to lunch together and just caught up with each other. Good friends, good times. Thanks Sherida for making my day.

Journey Day 3

2010-06-17T22:15:00.001-06:00

Each day is more self discovery. Right now I am working in a group by myself. Last year I went to Journey and didn't finish the whole course. Not that I didn't think that it was good or it would not benefit me but it was more of not feeling like I could share my feelings openly and without being judged. When sharing feeling about yourself we all want to be in a safe place. That didn't happen, mostly because of one person who was goading me and kind of taunting me. Needless to say I left and each time I tried to return I kind of had a panic attack.

I know, you are saying to yourself about now: "That doesn't sound like her." Well, it may not sound like me now but it was me at that time. Today I have to say I feel safe and secure. But I also feel safer working in my own group for right now. It is not exactly the same as being in a group and hearing all they have to say and learning from that but I have had a lot of introspective of my life and where it is going at this time.

I am grateful that i am allowed to work as I need to to gain from this experience what I can. Not everyone would let me work on my own and I may not be getting everything out of it I could but I am learning about myself and am grateful for the knew knowledge I have.

Tonight we went to John's cousins home in Mesa. David and Sheryl opened their home to us. John and Cheri came over also with their children. It was so great to see everyone. David and Sheryl's daughter made a fabulous Lemon Pie from their own lemon tree. So great.

While we were visiting with them, we were speaking of how our children are. When discussing what was going on with Christian we learned that one of the kids there also had the same diagnosis as Christian; Neuro-Cardiogenics Syncope as well as Mitro-valve prolapse. It got me thinking that maybe it is hereditary or is it just coincidence. I will have to investigate this more. Maybe there is something to it. It would be great is there is a study going on at Mayo or Cleveland Clinic that he could get into. Anyone have an idea?

Thanks to our sweet family for thinking about us so far from home to invite us over for an evening of love and enjoyment. We love you guys and wish we didn't live so far from ya'll or you from us. We always love getting together with family.

Journey Day 2

2010-06-16T21:47:00.002-06:00

What a fun time we had with the Orr's last night. We swan in the pool although I thought it was kind of cold and we just sat around a talked forever. Our friends are the kind of friends that we just pick up right where we left off. No getting to know you stage no awkward stuff in the beginning. So nice.

So, yesterday was a really hard day at Journey. Well most of it was OK but towards the end we did this exercise where you write down all the junk anyone has ever told you over the years, for example, you are stupid, your ugly, I don't want to play with you, your not my friend, your fired, etc, etc, etc. Then you pair up with someone and the music is up really loud so you can't really hear the other person and they can't really hear you. You tell them how it all makes you feel and stuff. Then you take your paper you wrote the stuff on and put it in this huge bonfire outside and watch it burn up. Well, actually it was quite freeing. Everyone has junk in their life and everyone wishes they could get rid of it. Well this is certainly a great way to do it. John and I just stood there and watched all our junk burn up.

When we went back in to the conference center it was like starting over with a clean slate. Rebuilding who you are and rebuilding good thoughts you put in your brain and good thoughts that others put there too. We are constantly in flux about how we feel about our selves and how we want others to feel about us.

Now the work begins. It is not about me or I, it is about us and we. How we as a group, family, couple work together for the greater good of all is what it is about. We can't do anything on our own. It is not all about us and what we can do for us. 'We are a family, a community, a congregation, a state, a nation.'

What I do today can affect the rest of my life.

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad

2010-06-16T21:04:00.001-06:00

Today is my parents 60th wedding anniversary. I am so happy for them. Staying married for that amount of time shows commitment, love, sincerity, joy, selfless action, team work, dedication and forgiveness.

Anyone married that long has these qualities and more. Anyone married this long knows how to work together for the greater good.

I am grateful for them in my life. Of course life has not always been easy. They raised 5 children. Some with health issues, some not wanting to be raised their way but all of them learning and growing in a loving family.

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad.

Journey

2010-06-15T16:20:00.002-06:00

Last night I drove to Phoenix. Today I am shopping at my favorite places; Last Chance, My Fairy Godmother and Scotties. I don't get to Phoenix that often but when I do the first place I like to head is Last Chance. They have amazing deals on over-runs, returns and seconds for clothes and shoes. I looked at the clothes and usually i find great deals but this time I don't think I was in the mood for new clothes as much as I was for new shoes because I couldn't find a thing I liked.

But shoes, now there is another story. I choose a pair of Uggs for Nicole for Christmas and a pair of Ugg slippers for her to wear right now. I also got a pair of Uggs. Plus 3 pair of Puma's 1 pair of Born's for me, 1 pair of Steve Madden for Christian as well as a pair of Cole Haun's. And a Dooney and Bourke purse. I was in heaven. What a haul and what a savings. I love to shop and get a deal.

I shopped all morning so when I picked John up at the airport for our 5 day conference I wouldn't feel compelled all week to shop.

Our conference is called Journey. It is a "Journey" to self improvement. Each day different areas of life are discussed for example, debt. There are lessons on how to get out of debt, lessons that as members of our church we have been taught our whole lives. For example: Take your debt and make a chart with the most expensive interest rate first. As you pay that one off you take the payment from that bill and apply it to the next bill and so on until you are out of debt. By paying off a bill that doesn't give you the right to use that money as free money you are to use it to free another debt. Not only do we work to get out of debt but we work to stay out of debt.

There are times we work as teams to solve problems and times we work things out our selves. Other areas we will be working on are Relationships with God, Health and Fitness, Family Relationships, Work Environment and so on. I think there are about 10 areas. I was somewhat worried when I knew we were going to work on Relationship with God. I don't like it very much when others tell me how I should believe or what I should believe or I am not right in my beliefs. I guess we will see what that entails. John has taken this course before and says I have nothing to worry about.

The best thing about this week I think will be staying with our friends, Dale and Teri Orr. We have missed them so much and can't wait to spend time with them.

Liz goes home

2010-06-12T23:17:00.001-06:00

Today Liz went home. What a sad day for me. I love her just like my own. She came into our family 8 years ago. She fit in right from the start. What a great addition to our family. The Lord could not have brought anyone better suited to our family then her.

The time she spent with us this trip was very memorable. Each one of us had different memories; John and I took her to Kennecott Copper Mine, Promontory Point, The Olympic Park, Temple Square and Saratoga Springs. Why there you might be asking your selves? We love to go out there and sit watching the lake and Mt Timpanogus. Nicole and I went to Montana, Idaho, Utah, Nevada and Christian Utah and Nevada. So much fun. I can't wait to spend time with her again.

Zions Nat'l Park

2010-06-11T23:23:00.001-06:00

Leaving St.George today is bitter sweet. We have had a great time down here and an even better time visiting with Lisa. Thanks so much for letting us crash at your home. It is beautiful.

Headed out to Zions today. One of our most favorite Nat'l Parks. When the kids were little we camped and hiked all through this park. Their first full fledged hike on the own accord was Emerald Pools. They hiked to the very top pool, Christian was 4 and Nicole was 3. What troopers they were.

When you go to the park these days you cannot drive all the way through it like you could before. Now they have these little buses you ride that drop you off at strategically placed spots.

We parked at Zions lodge and caught the bus. First stop was the main visitors center. There you can get an overview of the park, its background and what there is to do at the park. Quite interesting.

Next we rode the bus just around to all the sites without getting off so we could just get a feel for what was happening. Nicole picked up a brochure at the ranger station on horseback riding. From that moment on she was set on riding a horse that day.

When arriving back at the Zion Lodge she made a bee line across the street to the horse corrals so sign up for a ride. No one wanted to go on a trail ride so she was on her own. Come to find out, the people running the trail rides are good friends of our Uncle Burns Black, he owns the Rockin' R Ranch in Antimony, UT. The ride was so great for Nicole. On her adventure they came across a mother dear having a baby in the brush. Very exciting for all who where there.

This is what I found upon returning from getting Nicole on the trail ride. They looked like they were having a great time together.

Nicole's bright smiley face after the trail ride. She was so happy. Especially since she wasn't able to ride horses last year at the ranch. Amazing what a horse wil do to this girl.

We picnicked on the big lawn at the lodge eating wonderful sandwiches on Hotel Utah Rolls, Salad, cut melon and chips. After this adventuresome day a nap was needed.

Before we headed out of the park we walked down the the Virgin River and Liz put her toes in.

On our way back to Lehi we stopped in Springdale to see our friends daughter Megan who is working at a hotel and going to school. It was great to see her.

City of Lights (not Paris)

2010-06-10T23:59:00.004-06:00

Las Vegas is one of our favorite places to go. There is so much to do with the strip, Broadway shows, concerts, food, water recreation and seeing friends. What's Vegas without seeing the 'King'

Our family has been to Las Vegas many times although Liz has not been here and she was just like a kid in a candy store. Everything was new and exciting for her.

We saw the lions at MGM, took our pictures in front of the New York, New York hotel and started up the strip on foot. As many of you know there are things you just don't do in Vegas like take cards or pamphlets from those on the street. Unless you want to get an eye full. I can't believe how much more bold they are getting.

The temp in the city today was 118. Talk about HOT. Even I was a little uncomfortable. We hunted for a long sleeved shirt for Nicole so she wouldn't be so overcome with all the sun on her skin. We finally found one in the ABC store, way in the back on clearance! What a find.

The water show at the Bellagio fountain show was just as amazing int he day as it is at night.

Of course we went in also to see the hand blown glass flowers. What a site. The gelato here is also worth devouring.

Shopping at Caesars, Fashions Place, The shops at Venetian and Fremont Street.

Oh, Fremont Street. How we love you. A visit to Vegas is not complete without going to Fremont Street. The vendors, The street musicians, The weirdos, The light show. We love to people watch and this is definitely a great place to do that. In New York City a few years ago we saw a man use spray paint on cardboard to make pictures. At first it just looks like a bunch of nothingness, then amazing pictures appear. We saw a guy here like that. He made a picture for Nicole that looked similar to the Wasatch range. Mountains, trees and a waterfall.

Each week Fremont street has a surprise concert. FREE! No one knows who it will be. You are never going to believe who was playing when we were there.

KISS!!! Now I am not a big KISS fan but WOW. They were awesome. What a concert. It was just for 40 minutes but that will be 40 minutes I won't soon forget.

Of course we had to have the buffet dining experience. We choose World Buffet at the RIO. It has never disappointed us. Although the wait was 70 minutes it was great. Food from all over the world, Americanized of course, but good just the same.

Hoover Dam

2010-06-10T23:46:00.005-06:00

The Hoover Dam is one of the most amazing structures not only of its time but this era too. To build the dam the Colorado River had to be moved. Moved you say, How can that be?

Two cofferdam needed to be constructed. Construction of the upper cofferdam began in September, 1932, even though the river had not yet been diverted. A temporary horseshoe-shaped dike protected the cofferdam on the Nevada side of the river. After the Arizona tunnels were completed, and the river diverted, the work was completed much faster.

The cofferdams, rock barrier, and diversion tunnels were all completed before the spring floods of 1933. The engineers watched nervously to see if the dams would hold. They did, and the diversion tunnels easily handled the flood waters. The work of actually building Hoover Dam could begin.

It took over 21,000 people to build this dam.

Nicole was too tired to come with us to see the dam. So we left her resting in the vehicle. Sometimes a nap a better then the site. I know it is for her.

If you haven't been to Hoover Dam before or haven't been in a while you may not recognize this picture.

It is the Hoover Dam bypass. This bridge has been in construction for several years to divert traffic off the bridge. For the many people who have never driven across the Hoover Dam, that activity will be a thing of the past in the near future.

When you go across the bridge each side is in a different time zone. Christian is standing by each clock showing the time zones. It's awesome. Have you seen the movie 'A walk to remember'? She stands in two places at once. Well not only did we stand in two places at once but also was in two time references at once time. What a thought.

St. George

2010-06-09T22:33:00.003-06:00

Continuing South our next stop was St. George. Temp 113. Now, I love the heat but those with me, especially Nicole, was having a hard time of it. We decided to find an indoor activity to provided some coolness for Nicole. We came across this great find: Johnson Farm.

The Johnson Farm houses exceptionally well-preserved dinosaur tracks, fossil fish, fossil plants, rare dinosaur remains, invertebrates traces and important sedimentary structures.

This site is described by many paleontologists as "one of the ten best dinosaur track sites in the world" and is one of the most important discoveries in Early Jurassic paleontological history. It gives a 'snapshot' of an ancient ecosystem, and a wonderful opportunity to reconstruct, study and understand it.

Who would have thought right here is St. George, UT there would be this amazing find.

We topped the day off by having dinner at TX Roadhouse with our friend Lisa. We also will be staying at her home for 2 nights.

Cove Fort

2010-06-09T22:01:00.000-06:00

This road trip is lots of first for each person. Some of us have done some things but not others.

We arrived home kind of late last night but had enough time to do laundry and pack some things for our cooler because we were headed out again early, this time with Christian.

Our first stop was Cove Fort.

The fort was built to offer protection and refreshment to the traveler. Beginning in 1847, pioneers began settling the high mountain valleys stretching from Idaho to California. They came here to worship in peace and to build homes and communities. The fort is made of lava rock, which workers hauled from west of the property. The fort is 100 square feet, 18.5 feet tall, 4 feet thick at the footings and 2.5 feet thick at the top.

In 1867, the prophet Brigham Young called Ira Hinckley and his family to come and direct the building and operations of the fort.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has restored this Fort and it is open to the public for tours. What a great place of history. I would recommend this to anyone traveling along I-15 in UT for a stop to rest your body, walk the wiggles out and see this splendid fort.

This is one of gun openings. As you can see the wall is very thick, about 2 feet.

The pioneers didn't waste space or resources. This cradle was used for their babies but when they didn't have a baby or needed more sitting space they could turn it over and it was a bench. Ingenious.

Of course we have to have the obligatory covered wagon picture.

Tetons and Jackson Hole

2010-06-08T22:45:00.001-06:00

Our dreary day continued as we traveled on the Tetons Nat'l Park on through to Jackson Hole. I so wanted Liz to see the majesty of Tetons. But, the closer we got the more I knew she was not even going to catch a glimpse of their beauty. We did see beauty of another sort though....

This mama moose was hiding her baby but with patience on our part we were able to catch a small glimpse of it.

Jackson was a treat for all of us. Liz had not been to a western town before so each thing we saw was new and exciting. We shopped, browsed, and eat. My favorite place to eat is Merry Piglets. YUMMO! It is Mexican and quite good and filling.

I wanted to go next door to this yummy bakery for a cookie but when we got there were no cookies to be found. All sold out. I guess we will have to save that for another day.

Headed out of Jackson we saw this beauty.

We took the long way home and detoured over to Bear Lake and Logan. I had forgotten what a beautiful drive that is. I wish it wasn't too early for raspberries.

Yellowstone, Day 2

2010-06-08T17:54:00.001-06:00

After our super fast drive back to the Yellowstone Valley (because it took so long to see the East side)(and we had to get into the construction zone before they closed the road for the night). We were able to see 4 Elk this time going through Mammoth Hot Springs. I guess they are held up somewhere.

It was so much fun to hang out with my brother and sister-in-law barbecuing and visiting. My nephew and his wife came by also to see us. I have not seen them since they were married. Good food, Good family, Good times.

Saying good-bye this morning was sad. I don't get to see my brother very often. Thanks for the love.

This time going into the park we went down the west side. We hardly stopped anywhere because it was raining so much and very foggy. It was hard to see anything anywhere so why bother trekking out in the wetness. Dang!

We did stop at Old Faithful. By then the rain had subsided mostly but right before we arrived Old Faithful blew. Oh well, good thing there are many other things to see around there while you wait for the next time.

Hello, Yellowstone!

2010-06-07T23:35:00.009-06:00

Our hopes were dashed when we woke to dark clouds and wind, but, we headed out anyway.

My brother got his map out and suggested places to see. (One of which was not to stop at the petrified tree.) We had never been on the east side of the park before. My goal was to see a bear. Is that too much to ask for.

Traveling through the Yellowstone Valley toward the park was breath taking. The Yellowstone river meandering along the side of the road leading us to the park.

Along the way, Nicole and I were telling Liz of the many things we were going to see. First we would see elk, then probably bison. We entered Yellowstone near Mammoth Hot Springs. As we drove closer I expected to see a plethora of elk. There were no elk by the hotel, no elk on the great lawn and no elk on the way. No wait! ONE ELK! Can you believe it, ONE. So disappointing.

Continuing on our way toward Tower Falls. I have seen pictures of Tower Falls and it is beautiful. Zipping down the road we pass a sign that says :to petrified tree". Well the girls saw this and they wanted to go so off we went. It is a narrow road and dead end. Have you seen a petrified tree. Well, once you have seen one you have seen them all.

Of course we took the obligatory pictures and piled back into the truck. Around a bend we drove and all the traffic is stopped. Well maybe this is where the elk are. I jump out with my camera and look what I saw!!!

What a cutie bear cub! He had just slid down from being way up in the tree. When he slip down he started scratching his back on the tree. We couldn't have been more lucky. When the bears where on the road they were a mere 30 ft away. I was getting nervous that they were coming closer. No sooner had a thought that then they went down into the little meadow next to the road.

What an experience. So glad we went to the petrified tree after all. As we came out of the Petrified tree area we saw another brown bear loping up the hill. Can you believe it? 3 brown bears. What are the odds. My day has been made.

Our next stop was this pretty little falls off the side of the road.

As we passed Tower Falls we came to a meadow. Many cars were stopped on the side of the road. Of course we had to stop and get out to see what everyone else is. I can't believe it....luck has shined on us today. Across the road in the meadow was this lovely site......GIZZLIES!!!

Holy Smokes!! 2 brown bears and cub plus a grizzly mama and cub. All in a matter of an hour. SO this is where all the great wild life is hiding, on the east side of Yellowstone Nat'l Park.

We sat watching the grizzly's for about an hour. So amazing. Words cannot describe watching this mother with her cub. She didn't let it get too far but yet let it think it had some freedom. Much like we mothers do.

Montana Bound

2010-06-06T23:19:00.003-06:00

Since Nicole is feeling better this morning I am not letting the last few days mess with our already laid out plans so....this morning Nicole, Liz and I left for Livingston, Montana to spend a few days with my brother and his wife. It was actually our base for our adventures in Yellowstone.

Liz has never been to Yellowstone Nat'l Park. When she lived with us we traveled many places but not really much of the West.

I wanted to drive through Jackson, WY on our way but we kind of got a late start so we went the fast route through Idaho. Pouring rain almost the entire way. I hope this is not a prelude to our whole trip.

Liz and I had a wonderful chat as Nicole slept almost the entire way. We made a quick stop in Idaho Falls and introduced Liz to Taco Time and our favorite thing....crisp meat burritos. So good.

Since Liz has been here we have pointed out Temples along the way on different journeys. On our way today we saw: Draper, Jordan River, Oquirrh Mnt, Salt Lake City, Bountiful, Ogden, Idaho Falls and Rexberg. She is adding to her list. She has seen Frankfurt, Timpanogus and San Diego.

We arrived late and headed straight to bed. Hoping and praying for a bright sunny day.

Girls Camp Continued

2010-06-04T20:51:00.000-06:00

Nicole had many amazing experiences. The leaders and youth counselors couldn't be anymore great. They love the girls. They care about them. I love to watch how each one interacts.

After I left Mutual Dale, Nicole hand tooled a leather bracelet. Next she made a shoe bag to put her muddy shoes in. After she made a headband with a rosette sewed on it. Somewhere in there they had lunch and dinner.

I was so happy to see how the girls interacted one with another. the thing that made me the most happy........How happy Nicole looked. I love to see her smile. I love to see her twinkly eyes. I love to see her love others and be loved back. That is the most wonderful feeling in the world.

To know you are not being judged, to know that when someone is helping you they generally want you to succeed. To know that each person at camp loves yo as much as you love them. That is amazing.

As usual, testimony meeting was after dinner around the camp fire. During testimony meeting Nicole was going in to the lodge to get a jacket as she was cold. While walking down the rock stairway she misstepped and hit her head and elbow. Things seemed to be ok but on their way to the lodge Nicole began to seize. She had nine seizures and was taken by ambulance to Utah Valley Reg Hospital. Her YW teacher rode in the ambulance with her and stayed with her until I was able to get there.

After arriving at the hospital and assessing the situation, her youth counselor, the nurse and the YW president all showed up. WOW! I was overwhelmed. They didn't need to come but they did. They love Nicole and cared enough to come all the way to Provo to see how things were going. Thank you Heavenly Father for meeting the needs of Sweet Nicole. Meeting the needs by calling these wonderful women to serve in Special Needs Mutual.

Nicole was X-rayed and scanned. The damage...A broken left elbow. A cast and instructions and we were on our way home.

The next day we went to the church at the time the girls were to be delivered back. We pulled into the parking lot. Girls were unloading their things and standing around saying their good-byes. As we were spotted our Durango was surrounded by girls and leaders. The special needs girls were grateful that we came. Seeing Nicole help put their minds at ease. The YW leaders were grateful we came also. They were worried all night about how things were going to turn out. Putting their minds at ease was a priority for us.

For all they do for us each week, the love they show our kids, the experiences they give them. Thank you for serving selflessly. Thank you for showing my daughter unconditional love. Thank you for all you do. We love you.

Special Needs Girls Camp

2010-06-03T12:33:00.000-06:00

I am grateful for the programs Nicole is able to participate in since moving to UT. One of those programs is Special Needs Mutual. Today the girls from Special Needs Mutual are going to Girls Camp. They are camping at Mutual Dale in American Fork Canyon.

Girls Camp is an amazing opportunity for girls to get together. It is a time for bonding, testimony building, crafting, hiking, campfires, testimony meeting, building friendships.

The leaders put forth such effort on the girls behalf.

Nicole was nervous and excited to go. Of course she had been to camp before but she has not spent the night away since the fire. We both were apprehensive. As soon as Nicole arrived at the church most of her anxiety went away. She saw many friends there and her YW pres. said Nicole could sleep right next to her. Both of us felt so much better. So away I went to go climb Timpanogus with Liz. (that will be another post)

When I arrived home to pick up Liz, Nicole had called because she forgot her pillow. Of course I will bring it to her. (only because it is on my way to Timp)

So much fun to see her enjoying herself at camp. When I arrived she was making a pillow and eating Red Vines. They girls had been on a hike already, too. Next up was to make a shoe bag, a leather bracelet and a headband. It looks like things are under control here. Nicole has a huge smile on her face. I am glad she is having so much fun.

Our daughter from across the sea.

2010-05-24T08:08:00.000-06:00

Elisabeth, Liz for short. John gave her that name when she first came to America, August 2002. She had been called Betty or Ellie but never Liz. She took to it quickly.

Today May 23rd, Liz came to visit for 3 weeks! We haven't seen her for 5 years although we email regularly and IM too. of course we talk on the phone as often as possible.

I can't wait to start of little adventure with her. We have many things planned but mostly just visiting, hanging out and spending quality time with her is the #1 priority.

Nicole made a sign of welcome and off to the airport we went. John was coming from his mom's house and Nicole and I from ours. He beat us there. Good thing. She came in 15 minutes early. It was so good to see her. I didn't realize how much I missed her until I saw her again.

When we arrived at home it was midnight but that didn't stop us from visiting right away. Liz also brought us gifts from Germany. To Nicole she brought Bebe products. They are wonderful smelling lotions and sprays. T Christian and CD of a band she likes and to John and I....First I opened a spring form pan with a measuring cup that measures in metric. I was so excited because I knew I could make this wonderful cake Liz' mom makes. Oh my gosh it is so good. John opened a book Liz made with pictures in it covering what she has done the last 5 years. We loved seeing all the wonderful things she has been doing with her friends and her family. How was miss her family.

She was and is a big part of our family. We loved her as our own. She is a great blessing in our lives. We can't imagine our lives without her now. We love you Liz.

Jay's Wedding

2010-05-22T07:30:00.000-06:00

Many times in our lives we take kids under our wings. We mentor them, we give them advice, we worry about them, we laugh with them and share their joy.

This is a joy we have looked forward to share.

Jay was Christian's best friend in Wichita. Christian and Jay did everything together. Their love of cars blossomed in our garage where they tore down engines, put on brakes, redid carburetors.

Jay was like one of my own. He was often at our dinner table or spending the night. When praying for our own children we often prayed for their friends, Jay being prayed for many times.

One Spring break John took Christian and Jay to Utah - Canyonlands - to four wheel. What fun they had. It was Jays first experience to go to some of the most beautiful land in the country and dig into so serious Jeeping. They all had a blast.

Here it is, Jay is all grown up and marrying his college sweetheart, Jen.

Of course we went to Kansas City to witness this wonderful event especially since Christian was in the wedding party.

Sitting in the church watching the event unfold my eyes filled with tear. I felt as though one of my own was getting married. I also was proud of him. Proud of his choice, proud of the way he grew up and how he has turned out and so glad I played a small part in it.

Congrats Jay and Jen. Have a wonderful life.

Dinner and Dancing followed and great time was had for all as you can see. Christian and Cortnee really had a great time. I don't think they left the dance floor once.

You know the movie Top Gun? You know the part where Maverick and Goose sing 'You've got that lovin' feelin'? Here is Christian and another guy singing that song to Jen. It was Awesome. (I wish I had sound)

Rolling Hills Wildlife Park

2010-05-21T20:15:00.000-06:00

This wildlife park is amazing.

First there is a 64,000 square foot museum takes you around the world to experience the delicate symmetry between humans, animals and nature in seven unique regions from the arctic to the rain forest. When you first walk into the museum it’s just after sunrise, and even before you see the gathering pride of lions, you hear the birds and other sounds of the African plains.

They have a state-of-the-art animatronic human robots narrate stories of how they weave the thread of their existence into the delicate balance of life. As you move through the varieties of foliage and landscaping, you’ll see and hear the natural environments of each section of our world.

There are many areas that show different areas of the planet. You will see the wilderness with animals and their habitat as well as Indian tribes and how they live.

Next you enter the zoo area. 105 different species of animals. They have done a fantastic job of building habitats conducive to the animal. We practically had the park to ourselves. School was still in session and this park is not in a city so it is not the end of the year field trip like a lot of zoos are.

When we entered into the ape area we came across an orangutan. She sure took a liking to John. As soon as john came into the house she came directly to the glass and smiled at him. I think she stayed there for 20 minutes. We left before she ever left.

There were 3 HUGE tortoises. I know People have seem tortoises before but these were so wonderful. Especially when we found out they were over 100 years old.

Council Grove

2010-05-20T19:33:00.006-06:00

John and I have always wanted to go to Council Grove, KS. The historic significance has always intrigued us.

One of the most documented crossings on the Santa Fe Trail, this natural rock bed crossing over the Neosho River. We saw the wagon wheel ruts worn into the rock beds.

We stood on the banks of the river and closed our eyes trying to picture the many wagons that had crossed here so very long ago. There was a slight wind and meadowlarks calling one to another. I could almost hear the wagon wheels, the men calling to the oxen and the children walking along side.

I wonder what it was like to walk those many miles, to endure the many hardships and tragedies. I wondered if I would have the courage to leave my home and my belongings behind in search of a new land. I hope I am that strong.

This statue honors the Native American Kaw or Kansa Tribe. Together with the Madonna of the Trail, these two statues symbolize the true story of the West. They both stand near the waters of the crossing of the river.

A shelter east of the Neosho River bridge protects the stump of the Council Oak. Gathered in the shade of the big oak on a hot August day in 1825, agents of the Osage tribe and the U.S. government signed a treaty giving Americans and Mexicans safe passage along the Santa Fe Trail through Osage territory in return for $800. The tree no longer stands here but the memory is still here.

Not too far away it the Kaw Mission. Methodist missionary's built a mission to school the Kaw children. They felt that if they could teach them White ways they could fit into society better. The Kaw nation were hunters. The missionaries taught them to farm. The Indians were never accepted into the white ways liked the missionaries had hoped. The Kaw nation became more and more poor.

During the Mormon battalion march, they camped at the Kaw mission for a time. Out church has erected a small historical marker on the property.

Tallgrass Prairie Reserve

2010-05-20T19:07:00.001-06:00

Next on or travels we continued north and stopped at the Tallgrass Prairie Reserve. What a fantastic place. It is a home site as well as a preserve for the Tallgrasses of Kansas.

This home was one of the grandest West of the Mississippi at the time. If you were to visit this family and drove up in your wagon you would drive up to the front of the home which was approx. 45 feet actually from the front door. You then would proceed up several grand stairs on different levels to the front door. This home is 3 levels. Some of the most fascinating things to take note of is this home has 2 living areas, one for the men and one for the women. It also has a HUGE Kitchen area. Any woman this day and age would be envious of it. It actually is almost the whole bottom floor.

This sight has many out buildings. An outdoor kitchen that also served as a laundry area and a place to tan hides. Their outhouse was quite the structure. It had windows with drapery's and 3 places to sit. One for him, one for her and one for the daughter. I was surprised to see they each needed their own spot.

Our fascination was the barn though. It was 4 levels. From the side nearest the home the barn looked like 3 levels but from the other side it was 4. The first level which seemed like a basement housed the animals. The main level housed the farming equipment as well as buggies, 3rd level was intriguing. They could drive the wagons up a ramp to this level, unload it and then drive down another ramp. From there they would take the supplies and hay to the top level.

Underground Salt Mine

2010-05-20T07:39:00.004-06:00

Our first day we headed out early to the Underground Salt Mine in Hutchinson, Kansas. A few years ago this mine opened to the public for tours.

When first arriving everyone watches a movie to get you prepared for what is to come. Then off to be outfitted with a hard hat and a breathing apparatus in case of fire. (No, we didn't get to use these.)

Into the elevator we go.....down...down...down, 650 feet down. Right through the center of the aquifer.

Side note: When building the elevator to get down to the mine, they had to go right through the aquifer. Quite a feat. How they did that was by freezing the water in the aquifer with nitrogen, drilling the enormous hole in which the elevator would go through, adding cement walls to move the water around the elevator area, putting the elevator in and then unfreezing the water. Amazing.

The mine is quite cool but not cold. 65 degrees. There are many exhibits telling about mining here and how this mine was found.

These grooves on the walls are made from the machine that drills out parts of the wall. The machine moves in a circular motion.

One of the most interesting exhibits is about living organisms found in salt crystals.

The world’s oldest living organism, estimated to be about 250 million years old, is now living at the Kansas Underground Salt Museum as part of its newest exhibit featuring the unprecedented discovery of living bacteria found trapped inside a salt crystal.

The scientists credited with reawakening bacteria from spores inside an ancient salt crystal -- Dr. Russell Vreeland, Dr. William Rosenzweig, and Dr. Dennis Powers -- were at the Museum for the exhibit opening. Their research has indicated the cells from which those spores presumably formed were alive and active before the time of dinosaurs.

The three scientists are continuing their research on the subject of living organisms in non-living components like salt crystals. In fact, the men collected salt samples from the Hutchinson mine for further research. If more bacteria are found in these samples, it’s likely older than the bacteria previously found, as the salt deposits in Hutchinson are estimated to have formed 275 million years ago.

This salt mine is also used for storage of important documents and other items that may be ruined by exposure to humidity and other elements. Items come from all over the world. There are many items here from the movie industry. Footage as well as costumes used in movies.

These underground caverns are huge. You can imagine how much stuff this place can hold.

Alone Time

2010-05-20T07:28:00.003-06:00

John and I were able to spend a few days together 2 weeks ago. Just him and I. Nicole was in Utah in the hospital so I took the opportunity to fly to Kansas and spend time with John.

John took 2 days off from the clinic, which is a rarity, and we had that time to reconnect. Amazing what a few days of togetherness will do for a person.

For many years we have wanted to see a few places around Kansas. Places that are out of the way, off the beaten path. Places that you have to make it a point to go to. This was our opportunity.

Not only did we get to see these places and experience them together but the memories we created and the love we shared while creating them is priceless.

Beautiful Drive

2010-05-03T15:21:00.002-06:00

On our way from Utah to Kansas yesterday we encountered a ginormous storm in Colorado. Vail Pass was closed and the sheriff was turning cars around. We usually don't leave much leeway time on our drive to Kansas so this was going to pose a huge problem for us to get to Wichita in time for patients Monday morning.

We pulled out the map to look over our options. Not too far west on the I-70 we spy Hwy 24 to Leadville which connects to Hwy 91 to Copper Mnt. Looks good to us. We have found a new route. We pull over to say a prayer asking for guidance and protection and then off we go.

The first town we come to looks very similar to Park City BEFORE the craze. Quaint and secluded. We passed over a frozen lake and drove some of the most beautiful mountain passes we have ever seen.

We came around a bend and right ahead of us was an expansion bridge. Amazing.

We also passed the headwaters of the Arkansas River. Not much to look at considering not too far away (about 100 miles) this river is wide and rushing toward Kansas. As those of us know in Wichita it is not much to look at but those who live in Colorado know different.

It is snowing quite hard and the road is packed with snow. It is the beautiful snow that is bluish colored. Not much further and we reach Copper Mnt. We know the I-70 is right here.

John and I were very happy we made the detour around the pass to see this amazing road leading to more amazing landscape. I wish I had my camera with me to capture the huge evergreens capped with fresh powder, the rivers we went over and their newly painted rocks and banks and the amazing expansion bridge.

One day, soon I hope, we will take the detour again just to snap a few photos to remember our little adventure.

Warmth

2010-04-29T11:46:00.003-06:00

I am looking out my bay window to snow falling lightly on the ground. Although the sun is shining. I see shadows from the trees, the car parked in the driveway and Carlston rock perched right outside our front door. Shadows and snow, what a day.

It is beautiful to watch but I am tired of snow, cold, wind, drab landscaping. I need warmth not only to warm the earth but to warm my bones. Warmth will help my garden grow and warmth will help me grow. I grow more when the earth is warm. I have more energy, happiness, strength, joy and motivation.

I love to watch the earth come to life. That is what I feel like. I come to life.

The flowers blossoms, the trees bud, the grass grows furiously and I am in heaven. This is what I imagine heaven to be like. Everything in bloom all the time. Fragrances floating on the air. Colors everywhere. Slight breeze.

Brilliant!

He knows me....

2010-04-28T18:45:00.003-06:00

I look at her face, silently she looks back at me. Looking deep into my eyes as I look into hers. No words are exchanged nor do they need to be.

I feel the love eminating from her very being. I hope she feels my love for her. I kiss her nose and it wrinkles. A giggle slips from her throat while a smile spreads across her face.

Brushing back stray hair that has fallen onto her forehead I press a kiss to her brow. Warmth spreads into my lips.

As I rub her back to ease the pain I search my mind for anything that may come to it to help her. Quietly, prayers slip from my own lips pleading for God to ease her pain and in turn ease mine.

I am so blessed. Blessed because I know Heavenly Father hears my pleas. He may not answer me at this moment but I know He is listening and He will.

Things are complicated right now. He knows this is hard for me. "It is a refiners fire" I hear Him whisper so quiet it is barely audible. My heart quickens as I recall other times when I have heard these exact words.

"I know this is what you have layed out for me but Father, when will it end?" I listen. Nothing. I knew there would be no answer yet. He knows I am a fighter. He knows I can do it. He knows and in turn I know because He wouldn't just let me deal with this if He knew I couldn't handle it. He knows me better than I know me.

I am grateful He knows me.

Thinking...Thinking...Thinking

2010-04-28T07:07:00.002-06:00

Over the course of a week I have been thinking about life, love and the pursuit of happiness. Cliche - ish I know.

With so many things going on with our family sometimes I don't feel like I get enough me time. You know that time. The time when you wonder about life, ponder your dreams, read a book that had nothing to do with anything but take you away on a fantasy trip to a land some days you wish you could get to. I am not sure how I fit it all this in when I was working full time.

This weeks pondering....am I doing enough. Not just enough for my family but enough for me, enough for God, enough for my neighbor. How do we gage that?

My first ponder was keeping the commandments. Am I keeping them to my best ability? Wait a minute...what are the commandments? Besides the big 10, what have we been commanded to do? Pay our tithing, journal, follow the Word of Wisdom and serve others.

In talking with my sister-in-law, Anne, she recommended this scripture:

2 Ne 9: 25-29
"Wherefore he has given a law (or His gospel); and where there is no law given there is no punishment; and where there is no punishment there is no condemnation and the mercies of the Holy One of Israel have claim upon them because of the atonement; for they are delivered by the power of him. For the atonement satisfieth the demands of his justice upon all those who have not the law given to them....But wo unto him that has the law given (or knows the gospel and the commandments) yea, that has all the commandments of God, like unto us, and that transgresseth them, and that wasteth the days of his probation for awful is his state!

So, if we are concentrating on keeping the 2 Great commandments (Love the Lord, Love your fellowman) and wanting to put the Lord first in our lives that pretty much every commandment falls under those.

My thoughts now.....If I keep my eye on God and my neighbor (which not only includes those living in my neighborhood but my family, and those I come in contact with) I will be able to accomplish all I want to. And all I want is living my life to be able to attain Celestial life.

Problems with graphs

2010-04-27T17:29:00.001-06:00

Over the past several weeks Nicole has had more and more open spots and they are taking extra long to heal.

Today she went to wound care and had Dr. Saffel examine her. His conclusion is her body is rejecting some of the graphs. So what does that mean? It mean she will be in for more grafting. He gave her some medicine to try and help. They are going to watch it for the next month to see if it helps. If not they will have to take off the skin that keeps opening up and put new donors there.

I have wondered if that was the case because the same areas over and over open. I guess this is a new phase for us.

I am grateful for the technology we have in this day and age. I am grateful the doctors have come so much further even in just the last 10 years regarding burns and grafts.

Flight Park

2010-04-17T06:54:00.000-06:00

Very close to our home in Lehi, UT is the flight park at South Mountain. Each side of South Mountain has a flight park. The para-sailors and the hang gliders fly off the Utah county side in the morning and the Salt Lake county side in the evening. We watch them from out front porch in the morning. I love to see them floating above the minescuel cars driving by on their commute into the city.

They look so free up in the air, dancing one with another on the cool winds. How I wish I could do that. Maybe one day.

Night Visitors

2010-04-17T06:52:00.000-06:00

We are so lucky to have nightly visitors. Each night the deer come out from the sleeping burrow to eat and meander in our neighborhood. We have encroached on their habitat and so I feel it their right to encroach in my yard. It is not like I have a huge garden or many great flowers that they come to eat. Which is good or I might not like my nightly visitors.

I think deer are so majestic. Their movements are fluid. The turn on a dime. Unlike horses or another animals similar, deer when they run actually bound. I wish I had leg muscles as strong as theirs.

Sandy Aquarium

2010-04-16T06:52:00.000-06:00

Nicole and I joined the Sandy Aquarium. Salt Lake county is lucky to have this aquarium. It is not very big although it is nice and has great exhibits.

We loved the first exhibit. All things relating to Utah. Fish, wetlands, water and environment.

One thing I learned that really got me thinking was; if everyone turned off the water when they are brushing their teeth each day it would save enough water to fill Jordanelle! Now that is a lot of water.

In the next area we saw eels, moon jellies, octopus and sea horses. This sea horses picture is deceiving. These little guys are only about 1.5 inches long.

The aquarium has a penguin exhibit. Check it out.

Clean Garage

2010-04-15T17:51:00.005-06:00

Well....I have had it in my mind to clean the garage for months. Biding my time for the weather to be clear and warm. Today is the day!! 75 degrees.

Christian and I with the help of Christian's friend Junior took everything out of the garage. As each item was taken out it was put in one of 3 piles. Deseret Industries, Dump or back to the garage.

After sweeping, cleaning the floors and putting together gorilla shelves Christian and Junior organized each shelf. Shelves for garden stuff, shelves for tools, even shelves for all the Powerade Christian drinks.

I was surprised how fast everything went. Christian was on a mission. He was happy John wasn't around to keep every little thing.

As soon as we had the shelves done the boys switched out my washer and dryer. Boy, was I happy to have my washer and dryer hooked up. We have had a washer and dryer but it was a smaller capacity set. It sure makes a difference.

Now I can get 2 cars in the 2 car side. The third car garage still has a few things from my Uncle's home that is awaiting distribution to relatives, consignment and my parents home. When that is done all 3 cars will fit perfectly. I don't think in all my years we have had 3 cars fit in a 3 car garage.

Goes to show when you put your mind to de-junking your life, miracles can happen.

Church Training Video

2010-04-13T06:54:00.000-06:00

I wish I had some pictures for this post.

Today, I went to welfare square and was in a film for training others who are going to go to the cannery whether here in Utah or other parts of the world.

It was really a lot of fun. Each scene depicted some aspect of cannery safety for example: wearing ear plugs. Even washing our hands. My favorite was when we changed our shoes. We were asked to bring shoes that were not appropriate to wear to the cannery. I brought flip flops. It was so funny because those of us with the wrong kind of shoes were given rubber boots to wear. I know that is not funny. the funny part is they were about 10 sizes to big and that would be even more hazardous then the flip flops.

I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to serve at the cannery today to make this film. There was a sign on the wall that stated the time you spent at the cannery was likened to the time spent in the temple.

I hope everyone gets a chance to serve at the cannery. It is an awesome place to help the temporal needs of others.

Welfare Square

2010-04-09T07:46:00.007-06:00

Nicole and I are seeing and doing things around Salt Lake City. Today we went to Welfare Square to have a tour. For years I have driven past this place, thinking I knew all that went on here. I am of course a member of this church and I have been thought what goes on here but in reality I had no clue ALL of the ins and outs.

First, when you arrive a film is shown. It is about 10 minutes and reflects the spirit of Welfare Square. When it is over, a pair of sister missionaries starts the tour. To our surprise, Sister Taufa from Tonga, was our guide. We met her on one of our flights back to UT. She was being transferred from Denver to Temple Square. She was lost and the Elders were not there to pick her up. We helped her get to the right place and waited with her until they came.

First, we went into the Bishops storehouse. This is like a small grocery store. The necessities people may need are here. Basic food needs, hygiene needs as well as laundry and cleaning supplies. There is even a small clothing area that has jeans, shirts, socks, fabric to make clothes and other items from. These are all items received at no charge. It is our churches welfare system. People in need go to their bishops to be assessed for their needs. He in turn gives them an order to take to a nearby Bishops storehouse where the order is filled. Most often, those needing church assistance do other service in return for items. They may volunteer at the store house or soap factory. If they do not have a bishop and need assistance they can come to welfare square and sign up to work in the cannery, dairy, Deseret Industries in return at the end of the day they are paid in food. The churches mission is not just to its members, it is for everyone. It is not a hand out rather a hand up.

Next, we went to the warehouse that houses all the items. We learned that our church produces most of what is given at the Bishops storehouse. It is either grown or raised by members of our church on what is church owned orchards, fields or ranches.

When we lived in Texas, our family would go to the apple orchard about an hour away to help with pruning and harvesting the apples (which in turn went to a nearby Bishops storehouse). The kids looked forward each year to be able to go there and participate. Great service but also great learning experience and memories.

The men and women that over see quality control have an office here. They test each production run to make sure it meets or exceeds the standards put forth. The standards the church has for food it produces is some of the highest in all food industries.

The bakery was very busy today. It is most days. The smell was heavenly. When we strolled by the workers were cutting and bagging bread.

Next on our tour was the employment building. Here, people come to get more training as well as work on their resume, get help in interviewing skills and maybe even help others with skills they already have that will be beneficial.

Off to the cannery we go. John and I have dry packed many things over the years for our own consumption. Wheat, dry milk, apple slices, beans and many more things. At this facility they wet pack food. That means anything that is wet. For example, beef chunks, jam, many varieties of soup, vegetables, honey and on and on.

There is a Deseret Industries on the square also. This is like Good Will. People donate clothing, furniture, books and other items to be resold.

Next, the dairy. The most fascinating fact of the dairy I learned was about the milk the church farms produces. Only about 40% of the milk is used by the Bishops storehouse for bottling, making cheese, ice cream etc. (this includes the ice cream for BYU creamery) The other 60% is sold on the open market. WOW! That is a lot of milk that is produced because there is a lot of milk making items being made.

Another amazing thing our church produces...ATMIT. This is a product that is sent to 3rd world countries where they are starving. This product, Atmit, an Ethiopian porridge mixture based on a centuries-old recipe, is a nutritious blend of oat flour, powdered milk, sugar, salt and supplemental vitamins and minerals. Atmit has helped millions of people from starving.

At the end of touring we were able to taste the cheese being made as well as chocolate milk. Both were delicious.

What a great day Nicole and I had. Not only did we get to learn many new and exciting things but we also were able to see our new friend, Sister Taufa.

Rolls

2010-04-08T07:27:00.004-06:00

I have been learning the art of making rolls. I am sure my sister-in-laws, Anne and Sarah are laughing right now because they both make the best rolls. They are known for them. Well, I have never ventured down this path before.

I make all kinds of sweet breads, muffins, cakes, cookies, etc but, real bread and rolls I want to master.

So, Easter morning, I decided I was going to make rolls for dinner. I have to say they were pretty tasty. They might not have looked the best, they were not all the same size, but, they did have taste.

Nauvoo

2010-04-07T10:46:00.006-06:00

(This edifice is 'a beacon set high upon a hill for all the world to see as a testiment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.'

Dreaming of spring and all that it offers I thought I would share some pictures from a not so distant trip we took to Nauvoo, IL.

The temple is amazing and the grounds are beautiful. Our family has been there several times and love the atmosophere there. I hope you enjoy the pics.

Jazz Fever

2010-04-07T10:03:00.001-06:00

Christian loves the Jazz. I am not sure how many games he has been to this season but it is a bunch.

This season he has become friends with Thurl Bailey.

Thurl currently is announcing Jazz game but in his glory years he was a Jazz player himself. A great one, too. Pace Mannion.

Jeff Hornecek is also a hero of Christian's and he has been able to hang out with him this season too.

Of course the topping on the cake is Deron Williams. He was invited to a private meet and greet with him and was able to have his picture taken with him. Hanging on his wall is a signed D. Will jersey both Jazz blue AND Old school green. On his nightstand a signed D. Will Basketball.

Gotta love it.

Mopars at the Strip

2010-04-06T12:37:00.003-06:00

Christian and Maggie (Christian's Magnum SRT8) were invited to Mopars in Vegas. What an amazing weekend he had.

First the crew met in Sandy and did a crawl to Nephi and did a short show. But on the way down Christian had a rider with him.......Lou Santiago from Muscle Car. Lou rode with Christian for the majority of the way to Las Vegas. How sweet is that?

Then on Historic Cove Fort ( http://www.covefort.com/ ) for another short show. In the afternoon on to St. George for yet again.....a short show. They all rolled into Vegas in the evening just in time to get their cars cleaned and shined for MOPARS at the STRIP.

The first day was Friday. Getting the cars lined up and in their spots by opening was a feat. You know how guys are with their toys. They can't display them until they are perfect. Well, perfect they looked that day.

So perfect that Christian's Maggie was invited to a special show that night. One where they invite 20 cars from all the cars at the show to show off their stuff. Mopars puts on a party with a live band, barbecue, dancing and fun for all. Yes Christian's car was there.

Saturday, they had the pony wars as well as other cars racing. Christian was able to stay in the pit and take pictures of all the cars racing. What an exciting thing for him to be able to do. "Nothing like it", he says.

Saturday night walking around the strip also brought its own adventures.......

On to Sunday....The highlight of the weekend. Mopar Enthusiast magazine shot Christian's Magnum for an upcoming issue. A dream come true for a car loving guy like him. He has put his heart and soul into Maggie and to get such a payoff.

Well done, son.

Johnny - My Bestest Friend

2010-04-06T12:21:00.001-06:00

It has been 287 days that John and I have been separated by the miles that lay between Lehi, UT and Wichita, KS. 1052 to be exact. Well, not completely separated but mostly. We talk nightly and sometimes in the day. It is not the same as seeing each other each day or working side by side each day but for now that is what we have.

Do you know what an amazing guy he is? I hope I am not the only one who knows it. Just to mention a few.....

1. He is generous.
2. He is kind.
3. He loves Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ.
4. His brain is like a a room full of filing cabinets. AND he knows just what filing cabinet to look in to find just the right file to fix just the right problem.
5. He loves me.
6. He loves our children.
7. His love for his patients is like no other.
8. Sometimes he is tongue tied and his brain doesn't think as fast as he would like it to but when his brain catches up to his tongue it is amazing.
9. His love for his family, immediate and extended is like none other.
10. He loves the outdoors.

So many times I walk in the bedroom to talk to him or call out to him thinking he is going to answer me. I have so many things I want to share at that moment. And then I have to realize it will have to wait. A few more hours until the phone rings signaling he is finished for the day with patients he is lovingly and carefully taking care of. And then, it is my turn, to feel of his love for me, to hear his voice, to know I am loved and missed as much as he is.

We miss him from here and are so grateful he is able to come to Utah each month to see us. And, grateful that Nicole and I are able to go each month for a few days and spend that time with him in Kansas.

Each day we pray for him, for safety, health, guidance, and God's continued care. We have been truly blessed with the loving hand of God to watch over each of us while we are apart.

We have seen the guiding force. We have been the recipient of many blessings. We are healthy. We, as we travel back and forth each month, are safe as well as being safe in our day to day lives. We, together, not only as husband and wife but as a family, though we are separated by over a thousand miles, are strong. God bless you Johnny.

WE 2 ARE 1

Day 275

2010-04-06T12:05:00.002-06:00

I am finally getting around to updating. So many things going on I just have not had the time or energy to doing anything more than what is required.

First of all, Nicole is progressing quite nicely. Although we have had a few set backs, operations that were not planned and a 4 night stay for observation things are moving along.

One thing we didn't really expect to happen so quickly is Nicole having organ failures. We knew through research and speaking with the doctor that organ failure is highly possible. First her gallbladder needed to be removed. Now they are doing extensive heart tests as well as more liver test. The initial test coming back from her heart look like the beginnings of right sided heart failure. Along with that her liver functions are diminished.

Monday, Nicole had a DEXA scan. That scan checks the bone density. Nicole has Osteoporosis. At 23, can you imagine. We are now revamping her diet as well as her fitness program to help her naturally build more bone mass. I have also added Microcrystalline hydroxyapatite.

I will do everything within my power to help Nicole. With God's help and our faith all things are possible.

Day 267

2010-03-29T14:57:00.002-06:00

WOW!!

I can't believe I have not posted in 3 weeks. So much has been going on and so little time to catch my breath and have a minute to post.

For the most part Nicole and Christian are doing well. Christian has not had any episodes of passing out in 2 weeks. That is good although we still don't know what caused it to happen. The plan still is to go to Mayo we just don't know when.

Nicole, too, is doing well. She has had a few ups and downs but I can honestly say she is the best she has been for quite a while. Her PT is going well and each day she is improving. Her range of motion is increasing which in turn gives her more and more mobility. Which in turn give me more freedom.

Nicole has taken crocheting up again. Her hands are busily working on scarves and headbands. She is blessed to be able to use her hands as well as she is. I was worried for months that she may never be able to crochet again which would have made her sad as she loves to crochet and keep her hands busy.

Over the next few days I will catch up what we have been doing and how things are going. I have many pictures to post to go along with things.

Tune in.....

Day 247

2010-03-09T07:40:00.004-07:00

Hello beautiful day, I have missed you.

Today as I have been looking back on different blog post and reflecting I can't help but know how blessed we are. Not just that Nicole is home and doing well and Christian is stable for now, but truly blessed for many other reasons.

1. Nicole and Christian doing well
2. A roof over our heads
3. Clean water and healthy food
4. A close relationship with each other
5. The gospel of Jesus Christ
6. Love and support from family and friends
7. Doctors who give their all
8. People who intertwine their lives with ours for the better
9. Our right to choose
10. Living in a country that is free.

Since Nicole has been home from the hospital I find it harder to post what is going on especially in detail like it was when she was in the hospital. When I was spending each day there I found it so easy to write about many things especially her progress. Maybe it was all the long hours there or the quiet where I could find the feeling. Maybe it was all the searching I was doing.

Whatever it was is taken now by the day to day living. Whether it is Nicole's needs Christian's needs or home needs or clinic needs. All of these needs need to be met BEFORE my need to write.

UPDATE:

Nicole does not have kidney stones. What a gold star moment that felt like. I was so happy with those results. The symptoms from that has subsided somewhat so Maybe it was just from having her gallbladder out.

Nicole has been quite the funny one. She has really come into her personality. Some of the things she comes up with. I know this sounds like I am talking about maybe a toddler just learning to talk but it kind of feels that way too. Some parts of her personality has changed (for the better) and it is fun to see those changes emerge.

Nicole has expressed learning how to cook more delicate things and more complicated things. She and I have now had 2 cooking lessons. (her from the other side of the bar as not to get to close to the flame) Chicken Marsala was the first one. It turned out delicious. She was proud of herself.

The next was sugar cookies. She makes basic cookies well but sugar cookies she had never tried. Maybe they are not so hard for some but they have never been my strong suit. They too, turned out well. We rolled them out and cut them into Easter egg shapes. Nicole frosted them like decorated eggs with colors and sprinkles. So cute and yummy, too.

Christian has not had any blackouts for about 10 days. I hope it holds. The 2 tests he had done came back negative so we are kind of at the beginning again. I am going to check into Mayo and Cleveland Clinics to see which one He should go to. We pray for answers everyday, to be lead to the doctor(s)that will be able to figure it out, to put a stop to all of this.

Christian's Magnum is almost finished. He will be showing it at Spring Fest in Irvine California next week. He is pretty excited about that. The show is just for Magnums, Chargers and 300m's. Hopefully he will get a magazine shoot or maybe even a buyer. (I would like that) If not he will show next at Mopar on the Strip week after next. He received an invitation to show there. Huge show that one is. I think something like 30 magazines will be there looking for show pieces. Maybe he will be able to get a sponsor even. He loves his car.

Right now the bumpers are in getting reshaped and repainted. They are going to look awesome. After the Spring Fest show I am going to post just for that with pics of the finished product.

Christian, Nicole and I are going to Wichita the end of this week. Christian is just staying a few days but Nicole and I will stay for a week and come back with John when he comes to Utah. Christian is looking forward to this trip to see some of his friends but will have to get back in order to get to Spring Fest. I wish I was going with him. I, not only would love to see the show but I would love to see our family while there. (and the ocean and the OC swap meet) Oh well, Another time.