Walking with Laura

Awesome Activity - River Trip with YMYW

2011-10-29T00:28:00.000-07:00

"That was a fun Day!"

Quote from quite a few of the participants.

Four boats ferried about 49 people over to the River house

Bishop and Bonnie Carter set-up and organized an extremely awesome day for the youth in our ward. Their daughter (Janelle) and son-in-law have access to a River home on the Delta and allowed us to come and play at their place.

The object of this game was to wiggle the Oreo down your face into your mouth without the aid of your hands. It is possible!

Some canoes went straight, some back and forth. Everyone made it though a few trips were much longer than others.

There were 6 feat of skill to accomplish before lunch - you actually got to earn how many points (pennies) you got for lunch. Zip-line, Canoe skill, rifle target practice, build a fire, sponge-bob relay, and an Oreo eating contest.

The zip-line was so fantastic!

Sponge-bob contest - get as much water from one bucket down the hill to the next with the sponge.

Dominic eyes his cookie!

Merit, Caleb, Shannon and Collette

Fire-building - build a fire tall and high enough to burn the string.

Addison on the zipline

After lunch everyone got to pick which activity they wanted to do. Tubing behind the boats, zip-line, canoe down the river and the rifles were the top picks. Some went swimming, riding on the merry-go-round and explored the island.

Air-rifle - Dominic got all the targets

Alyssa and Amanda take aim.

Elizabeth, Sam and Whitney fan the flames

Devun power paddle in front, Gavin, Sammy and Mike steers in the back - great crew

Bishop Carter tested out the zip-line on the tallest guy - Michael

The Bishop got quite a work-out catching the youth so they wouldn't smack into the tree at the end of the line. I'll bet his back and legs needed a massage.

Sam on the Zipline

Tubing was a hit

Even side-wise and over - it's all fun!

After staying an extra hour and a half, we all said Good-bye and got ferried back home.

Good-bye to a totally great day.......

Jeffrey's famous Chicken Pesto Sandwiches

2011-10-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

We were in luck today!

Jeffrey has perfected the art of truly delicious sandwhiches. Today he cooked up some chicken breasts with olive oil and spices, sauted up some mushrooms in the same pan, cut up the ciabatta bread and spread pesto on one side and toasted cheese on the other side, sliced up garden fresh tomatoes (from Lindsay Bradburn) and used tiny red leaf lettuce when assembling them all together. I added the fresh fruit Regg Penovich brought on Saturday and we had quite a feast!

Nothing better than vine rippened tomatoes!

The Push Needed

2011-09-21T12:20:00.000-07:00

Life is a Balancing Act

Something is always breaking, getting old, or falling apart at our house. In the beginning we had little children who would snap off hoses, dig up my back lawn, or have water fights jumping through the window and running through the house. Though there are things that just wear out too. The battle to keep up with everything is interesting. Many things wait till it becomes no. 1 on the list.

This fall it's the bathroom/garage. 14 plus years ago we had a fire and had lots of construction done in that part of the house. Nothing since. I was bothered by the fact that the Sheetrock was peeling and shredding and it looked like occasionally there was something leaking. There were ominous signs in the bathroom itself. With kids going to universities and missions and generally just being expensive, putting off repairs just seemed like it was OK.

We've talked about the downstairs bathroom (we're still in the discussion stage) and Anthony Durst did a quick fix-someday-to-be-done-right-job for us because we had company coming. This summer was full of Wedding, vacations, camps, and relatives from out of town.

Then a week or so ago, I looked out the window and saw my friend (who is pregnant with her seventh child) pushing a baby in a stroller and walking with her sister-in-law passing out brochures. When I walked out to say howdy she mentioned that her husband just finished a big job and was now looking for another and would do painting work, though that isn't his favorite.

That was it. I decided we needed the bathroom done now and my excuse to Jeffrey was that I had a deep concern that someday we would step into the shower and the whole thing would drop into the garage. I know Jeffrey would really like to have some extra savings for the hundred emergencies that seem to keep coming up. We'll just have to be prudent.

The scary thing is when my concerns happen to be based a little too close to reality. They did find a continuing leak and had to rip out some crumbly boards that the floor is suppose to rest on. The fact that this is an old house and bringing it up to code may be just a little more expensive than was expected is just par for the course!

Just Thinking

2011-09-10T11:24:00.000-07:00

Laura is off to Rexburg to drop off her daughter for school. So Lisa and I have been walking in the morning and she had a great topic I haven't been able to let go. On one of her daughters applications for a job as a sign language interpreter it asked if a person was deaf all of their life, would they be "restored" with hearing or without in the resurrection ? (At least I think that was the gist of it.) I think they wanted to know how the applicant felt about "disabilities" etc.
I've come to the conclusion that we are all "deaf" and blind and don't have all the senses that we could possibly want in this life. Adam and company lived many more years than we do - why? Because the ozone layer was thicker, mutant genes, environmental damage etc. etc. So if we get "restored"will we have the abilities that we were suppose to have from heaven, but because of factors beyond our control (and some in our control) our lives are limited to what is now available? Let's even go back to Adam and Eve's bodies before they were kicked out of the Garden of Eden. Marvelous bodies that were cut short to one of the Lord's days. If there is a restoration we shouldn't expect a limited earthly body but a glorified one. I wonder what that is - impervious to illness would be a good start. Could we hear what an elephant hears or a whale? Without a veil could we see further, brighter with more colors? Could we feel more from our heart and minds? Would communication of all senses be better? Maybe mind to mind.
My answer to this question would be yes, hearing would be restored in a much broader fashion to ALL of us who are deaf to some extent or another in this world.

Last of Summer

2011-08-29T23:03:00.000-07:00

Rachel and I went Camping Carter Style!
That means a tri-tip dinner, with Cesar salad, baked potatoes, watermelon (cooled in artesia water) and homemade cookies all courtesy of Bonnie. We had a delicious Spaghetti dinner the next night!
She is a great cook and wonderful hostess.

Disneyland style ride, bumpy, fast, slightly dangerous. They are strapped in so they won't hit the roof with their heads going over bumps. We are on our way to beautiful blue Sterling Lake. It is clear, has fish and very inviting.

Wild flowers abounded everywhere. Spring is still around in the high mountains as the snow didn't leave until very late. Lots of colors and variety. Very nice.

This is really a gorgeous place. It was hard to decide if I wanted to go swimming more or boating. So I just waded a minute to feel the water temperature. It wasn't bad. Very clear and interesting.

The Bishop pointed out the interesting fact that these trees find a way to grow right out of rocks. Where do they get the nutrition they need? Is there really enough dirt in a crack to feed a tree?

I went exploring around the Carter's camp and found this bird nest on an old stump. I really can't picture a bird building a nest there, so I speculated that the Websters or one of the other Carter grandchildren had put it there.

This is Carter Camping - hot running water for showers, flushing toilets, AC and heat, comfortable beds, ovens, stove, refrigerator, a gas grill outside, 3 ATV's - one a buggy for six, campfire, zip-line and play structure. Awesome!!

Bishop Ken Carter showed Rachel how to fish and she caught four! Luckily for her he was nice enough to bait the hook, net the fish, pull the hook out and touch all the fish. None were big enough to bring home, but just right to have fun!

We got to be on top of the World, so Rachel is doing some Mountain Silhouettes .

We read all the historical facts as we toured around and this is the famous Rainbow Bridge which has appeared in different movies. In 2007 a bear got stuck at the top of this arch and had to be tranquilized to get him down.

This is Bonnie and Bishop Ken Carter - a very generous, patient, and nice couple. The showed us a really wonderful time and showed us wonderful adventures around Cisco Grove, California.

Donner Lake from the top

It was so beautiful everywhere we looked and the Bishop was so nice to stop when I wanted to take more pictures.

This was a comfortable nice place to live and then when it was time to go home, the Bishop rode the ATVs up on an especially put down carpet for storage until next week!

When the freeway came in many businesses that were on Highway 40 closed. This fireplace was in one of the ruins found in Cisco Grove near where the Carters live.

We walked down a path until we got to this melted snow pool of water - yes it was freezing cold, but clear and inviting. In fact two dog came up the trail on their own, jumped into the pool, then trotted back down the path to their car.

Laura at Work Again

2011-08-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

Laura is really a Pro

at creating a beautiful show with food. She works so hard to give people what they want at parties, weddings, graduations, and backyard swim parties. Last Saturday she started out around 8 am loading up her van and taking things to the church. The culture hall was already decorated by Stephanie, friends and their families from the night before for Stephanie's daughter Christina and Daniel's reception.

Chocolate and maroon - imaginative colors

Laura made sure the food for the luncheon was set up and ready to go and then worked on the reception when the line for lunch started.

Laura really doesn't like a camera anywhere near her - good thing we're friends

Laura making the salad

Setting up for reception started while lunch was on

Lots of good food

The only downfall came with the chocolate fountain. Despite reading carefully the directions and following them, it didn't work until someone gave the tip that Crisco would make it run smoothly. The package said to just use the chocolate pieces warmed up. Nope, 10 minutes after adding Crisco it finally worked. Very messy, but lots of people said they liked it.

Abby and Pam trying to make the chocolate flow

I think the whole day turned out really well and it was so nice to see the last of Stephanie's girls married. There was a picture of David her son on the stage because he is in Australia on his mission right now. I've never seen Christina so happy. It was really an awesome day.

What would I do without angels?!!!

2011-08-11T11:35:00.000-07:00

Angels come in all sizes, shapes, and sex. I find them in my life both seen and unseen. I can tell you much more about the seen ones, than the unseen - times I just feel something or someone there. Now the seen angels many times don't realize they are coming as an answer to my fervent prayers.

So I was asked to be the quilt leader for girls camp - now really quilt LEADER - not just the one coming to do what she has been asked. Called 2 months late mind you - after the overstock sales are over. If you are a close friend you'll know this has been an interesting year over here at the Adams zoo. Stuff has been piled high for cub day camp, wedding, shower, and of course the quilt material, yarn and batting. The interesting point is that every month something major seem to crop up and when I asked God how it was going to get done someone would call, recommend someone else or drop presents on my doorstep. God would keep the chaos one step away from drowning me.

While Wedding preparations were going on in April and May, JoAnn Carney showed Janey Bates and I how to sew up nine patches and change them around to make interesting quilts. I told several people about my new calling and they literally handed me boxes of extra material (Lanette Hopkins and others). It came in all sizes, colors with mostly flowers (lots of purple showed up). I wanted to find a way to make it fun.
Then Jeanne Rumsey (a former quilter at camp) gave me 17 perfectly sized and matched ready to go quilt sets. Wow, half of my quilts ready to go! In May and June while the cub day camp started heating up, Janey Bates came up with the idea of sewing around the edges so we would only have to tie them when we got to camp. She proceeded to sew more than half of the remaining quilts in July while I checked cubs in, assisted in a pie eating contest, directed parents to children and found lost articles. Did I tell you in July another son decided to get married?
JoAnn gave us 5 beautiful sewn up quilts and told me two more for the men were on the way. Jeanne Rumsey made sure I had a 50% coupon when I bought the batting on a roll (Jeffrey donated that) and I think Janey was the one leaving yarn and material on my doorstep. We didn't have to buy anything for camp. Everything was donated this year.
The wedding went off beautifully thanks mostly to Laura (and all those who so generously volunteered their time), a shower was generously donated by Janae Parkin with women who came when they heard about it just to support our family. I've felt so lifted and sustained - warm and fuzzy. The Adams family had a wonderful week-long family reunion in San Diego that ended on Saturday and Monday morning Rachel and I were on our way to camp.

Some of the quilts at camp

Feeling like I'm on a water tube with the river of life rushing under and around me, Angels successfully helped me navigate to a beautiful finish at Rucker Lake where we were finished with all of the quilts tied up by Wednesday afternoon and got to just enjoy the girls and the ambiance of camp. I love Angels, I really hope I can be one too.

Girls camp service quilt for
a Missionary in the Oakland Mission

I'm winning....I'm sure I'm winning......

2011-07-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

So we had this nice adorable kitten that grew into a cat. Nice mouser - also catches rats, squirrels, and birds - but at least he knows his job. Well, there was a time we didn't have a screen in our bedroom window. It was a nuisance because insects could come in at night if the window was open but it usually wasn't opened until late when we went to bed. Welllllllll...... the cat discovered he could jump through the open window, but that was fine because I put a fan into it and he stopped jumping through. But then!!!!! he jumped up onto the fan and into the bedroom - at 3 in the morning. Sometimes the fan would unbalance and fall over then crash onto the floor and bed. Not so fun.
So I put up a screen. Got a kit from Home Depot followed the directions and then re-screened a few more windows that just needed it. Wellllllllll...... that darn cat would butt his head (or whatever) against that screen -secretly I'd laugh --- until he got in after 3 months - the screen gave way from the spline. Just a little gap. A large cat can fit through a little gap! Soooooo...... I rescreened it with an 1/2 inch more screen to spare on all sides taped down. And then I wrapped the bottom of the screen in another layer around front and back and sewed it together (luckily the window's on the second storey of the house so no one can really see it).
Let's see who wins this round................!

Above and Beyond the Call of Duty

2011-05-30T19:34:00.000-07:00

Open House for Nate and Kelsi

Irony at it's finest, there were only 2 hours in the whole weekend that it rained on Ardenwood Court in Concord..........yes the half hour before the celebrations started till half hour before it ended. So the pretty bows on the branches were soaked

and the pretty flowers were dripping

everything was rushed into the house

and set up inside

with delicious food set up

vases put on the mantle

because I hadn't done as Laura suggested and found a place in case it rained.

The open house was lovely, cosy, intimate and beautiful.

Nate greeted friends

and introduced Kelsi

while music played in the background

courtesy of Teemaree
and friends chatted and ate.

Perfect!!

Thanks Laura.

Getting ready for the Open House

2011-05-27T00:33:00.000-07:00

So my oldest son Nathaniel just got married!!!! Well he got married on May 21st but it still feels like yesterday. On Saturday we are having an Open House at Laura's backyard and preparations are really underway. She has been hard at work on the yard and friends have popped over to loan her trees and plants and the kitchen looks busy.

I should have taken pictures of the table filled with rising rolls. Tomorrow there will be salads and more desserts. Yummy!
At my house there is a hallway that I've been filling with the treasures I've been stockpiling for the last 2 months (that's the time Nate gave me to put this on - March 5 to May 28th). I've always found it much easier on everyone (as in Jeffrey) if I get items a few at a time instead of all at once. The pocketbook shock is just too much.

I hate to admit, but I have piles of girls camp quilts, and boxes with day camp boys scouts too. It's a wonder my family still likes me! I do try to have really good meals lately. It helps the stress levels of all.

Laura's Camel

2011-04-23T22:39:00.000-07:00

Laura told me about a camel she sees every once in awhile, then one day (riding with her)

we see this camel!!! Now she tells me there is also a camel with 2 humps ---

maybe I'll see him too.

Construction to begin - well maybe in April or May

2011-03-03T19:30:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago Laura and I went visiting different Tile, pre-fab, and do-it-yourself stores to look up ideas on a new bathroom. Water isn't staying where it should and right now we are trying to decide what we need.
Jeffrey doesn't want to spend a premium amount of money because he says we would never get back what is put in because it needs to fit the other homes in the neighborhood, and I don't want so basic it isn't fun.
I sure like tile and stone. I'm not really excited about the pre-fab at Lowell's, it just has tiny specs in it no marbling or veins. I'd love a granite or marble look that is easy to care for.
It was very interesting to note that in the showroom at Ordaz the models were mostly in light colors. The lady on the floor said most women seem to choose the lighter colors and men chose dark. Sure enough Jeffrey chose the darkest sample I brought home. Do more women choose what's in the bathrooms?
It sure would be fun to have a "stone or pebble" shower floor with sandy tiles and make it a beach theme. Add some puffy clouds on the ceiling.
Probably it will turn out to be a normal looking bathroom - on the other hand, maybe I'll just invite Bonnie over like I've been threatening to do and listen to her advise.
I really love friends.

Something I love to hear

2011-01-21T07:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks Mom that was soooo Good!

I was a hero last night with one of Laura's recipes. Everyone liked it. I served it with lots of fruit - blueberries, tangerines and grapes with yogurt on the side.

Chicken Casadeas

Cook up some chicken - Laura will use a whole, some breast, or a package - just depending on how many you want to serve. I put the chicken on with a can of chicken broth and simmer it till the meat flakes off.

Drain - I reserve this for soup for another meal - and add a bottle of Salsa and simmer the chicken down till most of the liquid is gone. I like to make preparations for a few meals at once, so at night its a quick fix in between lessons etc. This can be done whenever you're making preparation for dinners. Set aside.

When it comes time to make dinner:

Cream some lemon juice (I got them from Laura's tree), chopped jjalapeno (I use half or a quarter of a chili) and cream cheese - at room temperature (just set it out before Rachel's piano lesson).

Thinly spread this on one tortilla, scatter around a heaping tablespoon or more (depending on size of tortilla) of the chicken mixture, and top with some cheese (I used all the leftover cheese - cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, and gruyere). Cheddar works.

Place another tortilla on top and grill on one side till the tortilla gets brown, then carefully flip till the other side is brown. I cut it in quarters and serve. I had to actually use the oven grill as they wouldn't fit in my frying pan and I couldn't find the cord for the electric fryer. Worked great - you can do more at a time.

Notice it is 1.11.11 This should be one cool day!

2011-01-11T10:06:00.000-08:00

Are the stars lining up or anything? At 11:00 we'll have to have a mooment - for what? well something interesting! I'm sure I can think of something. You know some baby will be born or something of some significance somewhere.
Me I'm just waiting for the fog to lift and the sun to shine. My world is changing again and while exciting and different, I need to deal and re-focus. On what? - so I feel I'm scrambling around without the comforts of routine. Isn't it interesting that routine can feel monontous and boring - but safe. Then in an effort to change my life for the better, I find my church callings are changing, my kids are almost all grown up and I'm not sure what the next duty - joy - fire to put out - event - is or will be. But I really have seen the hand of the Lord watching out over my friends and while they are struggling and crying, from this dstance I can see how they are being watched over and blessed. I wonder if they can feel it? What is my purpose right now? I have full faith that God is watching, so maybe I'll just clean up my house and see what comes out of the sky - at 11?

Magic Moments

2010-12-25T15:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve this year was awesome - and also a recognizable milestone. My kids are grown up.
You may think I'd realize it because most of them are taller than I, but it creeps up on you so gradually it takes a moment in time to recognize it.

We had a very nice dinner and then a scripture discussion before the pie was served. The night took on a really spectacular view when Michael and Jeffrey began playing a piece that Michael made up. The chords are really cool sounding. Michael on the piano and Jeffrey on his old guitar. Actually they kept making it up. Nate walked in to the room, liked what he heard and joined in with his bass guitar and they convinced Rebekah to pull out her flute from six years ago and play along. After Andrew and Rachel came home from shopping they urged Rachel to grab her clarinet and Andrew to jump on the keyboard - and oh by the way could he come up with some words to go with it?

The video I have of each additonal player is really cool, but of course not for public display until more practice and effort has gone in to it. But as a mom - my heart is full to watch and listen to the talents of my family emerging and growing. It was really an awesome experience.

The kids were laughing on the computer and doing some last minute Christmas wrapping when Jeffrey and I decided to go to bed. After the family prayer there came a moment when I paused to say something and couldn't figure out what to say, when Nathan said with a grin on his face, "You want us to turn back into little children and have an exciting Christmas night."

Ahh, that was it! They were clearly getting ready to play some games and go on with their night as we went to bed and the roles had changed and they were in charge of their own happiness and I was going to bed to wait for the excitment of the new day. My youngest is twelve and having fun with her siblings but quite over the "magic" of anticipation and the oldest are adults.

When did it all happen?

It's in who you know!

2010-12-23T17:03:00.000-08:00

Choose your friends wisely. If you walk with the right friend she will tell you where to get the stuff you want, where it is on sale and sometimes even go with you!

The REAL story of the runaway Gingerbread men

2010-12-22T00:19:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure I've narrowed down the clues to this classic - young men were at their grandmother's home and came up with a really cool story for their mom when she came to pick them up. I'll bet she said, "And then what happened?" several times.

The plan this year was to make gingerbread men, with loaves of bread and homemade freezer jam for our friends. When the bread came out of the oven, I was upstairs wrapping presents and when I came down the braided bread was half finished though I was able to save some for their dad's supper. Now gingerbread has to set for about 2 hours before you can cut them out and bake them. Luckily they only bake for 7 minutes so you basically have to wait around. Well no one was around for the rolling and cutting but just as soon as those gingerbread men came out of the oven - they tried to run away. I had to guard them with a spatula, a look, and a firm no. I ignored criticism of flat heads, misshapen arms, juggled hands that tried to knock the gingerbread off (so it would break) till I told the kids to scram. If you happen to get a gingerbread man this year just know it came out of Fort Knox.

Marissa and Andy married!

2010-11-28T12:24:00.000-08:00

The tender feelings of a mother who is thankful for the Lord's blessings in allowing her to see this daughter married. We're all thankful for the care, time, effort and service that Carol Nielson has given to so many, many of us. Joy in hard times.

Walking with Laura can really be fun!

2010-11-13T16:59:00.000-08:00

It all depends on WHERE you walk!!!!

Dana and Laura

Jumping the bowling balls on Bowling Ball Beach

Bowling Ball beach is really a great place to walk, explore and have fun. We stayed at a friend of Laura's home at Sea Ranch on the Mendicino coast and had a fabulous time at beaches all day! There was a nice hot tub, good food, great friends, the song of the surf, and grand vistas at every corner. What a wonderful way to feel gratitude for those who made it all possible to live in a land we can run around freely in. Nothing like sleeping in a warm comfortable bed and waking up with friends, eating, conversing and building sand castles!

Sand Castles on Walk-on Beach

Laura and Dana walking

Fabulous view from the Hogan's home

It's that time of year!

2010-10-30T19:08:00.000-07:00

Since I'm strictly prohibited from posting pictures on facebook, I certainly didn't mention there were other places I could put them.

Friends

This is what happens when you aren't a child and you aren't a teenager - just that middle schooler wanting to trick-or-treat but not old enough to go out to the all night parties. I actually had to talk Rachel into a party because she didn't know what she wanted to do since we're not keen on Sunday trick-or-treating and I'm totally not keen about the older kids parties. She got to have five of her nicest friends to come to a party and sleep-over.

They actually slept

It is cold and flu season and I found myself fighting a cold for the past two days and maybe I regretted a little bit having screaming, running around the house -kids, for the night instead of a quiet book or watching TV...........

After breakfast

But it was totally worth it and so much fun!

Worm and dirt - Yummy! Courtsey of Alyssa

You are only a kid once and I love having my last kid being a kid!

Pomegranates

2010-10-23T19:49:00.000-07:00

Pomegranates... just the name renders up images of soccer, fall, Thanksgiving around the corner! Regg brought us over a few with his fresh fruit run today, yummy raspberries, strawberries and some pomegranates.
In past years when we came home from soccer games on Saturdays, a man would always be on the corner selling his pomegranates until his three trees fruit was gone. We would try to get there early because they were big and delicious. He wasn't there last year and the store bought are not as ripe, big, or sweet.
Rebekah and Rachel were at the table tonight dicussing the merits of the best way to harvest the seeds. Rebekah preferrs the more rapid approach while Rachel likes to pull out each seed without squirts or pop outs. Rebekah scooped up a spoonful with a "Uh huh, but look who's eating them now?!" Rachel said she would enjoy each one. Being the last child, Rachel has learned how to protect her own and when her dad came in the room she put her hand up and said a firm, "No." before he could get a word out. While we are all laughing she picks up her cup in one hand and the plate with peelings in the other to throw them out. Not leaving even a chance of pickings for anyone! She enjoyed ever one.

Donna elopes and I get praise!

2010-10-15T14:07:00.000-07:00

New chapter in my sister's life

On October 9 my sister Donna and Parley Estes got married. They have known each other for quite a while and thought about marriage for many months, then his brother planned to get married on the 8th and when they saw all the family traveling from Texas to Utah they thought why not join them?
So after the reception they announced they were getting married tomorrow and everyone who wanted to stay could see them get married. Luckily for our side of the family we had three days more notice.
On Wednesday when I heard there would be punch and cake I talked it over with Laura and asked why people would think of sweet things first and wasn't there something else that could be served that would be more exciting and delicious. Yes, and
Boy did she come through for me!
Chicken and Cashew Croissant Sandwiches and a Spinach Artichoke Dip (I'll post both recipes in just a bit - you'll probably want to use them sometime!)

So on Thursday I ran over to Costco and Winco and got ingredients and Rachel, Rebekah and I set out early Friday morning, got there in the late afternoon and then helped set the reception and fell in bed that night. Got up early Saturday to see Donna and Parley married, had lunch with Nate who had come down on Friday from Rexburg and Andrew who came by bus from Provo that morning, and Rachel and Rebekah who were already with me. Then that night we helped finish setting up the reception and enjoyed meeting with family and friends - the kids had fun decorating the couples car with whipped cream, oreos, balloons etc.
When I got to the kitchen, it was obvious that others thought the same as I as there were fruit baskets, nuts, rolls and other food to go with the punch and cake.
In the clean up and reflection process I got numerous complements on the sandwiches and especially the dip - Thanks Laura! - quite a few family members wanted the recipe.

Victorian theme

Sisters helping Donna get ready

Just about there!

Life is good and here's to the new couple!

Susy the Sister my mom prayed for

2010-09-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

My mother had lots of brothers and finally a sister at the end of their family - when she had a girl first she prayed very hard to have a sister for her little girl to grow up with. What a wonderful gift for us to have each other. A year and 2 weeks apart. Nothing like after dark sharing secrets and going to school and camp together, sharing clothes, make-up, shoes and coats - having good times. Nothing like anticipating and sharing the dreams for the future together. She's been my oldest best friend.
While she came on business to California, I ran down to spend a day or so when she wasn't in meetings. She told me all about washers, dryers and what to look for in a good dishwasher. We also laughed, talked, and shared a few frustrations. Kept each other awake during church and caught up on her life.
Sometimes we laugh at the simple expectations of our childhood and how much more we discovered we really wanted out of marriage and family than we could have imagined as children. I miss her when we're apart. The curious thing is when I pray for a sister or that kind of connection myself, I run into great 'sisters' where I am!
I never thought I'd have so many other 'sisters' that could make my life so complete. When the children were young someone would call up and say she had to get out of the house did I want to go to the park with her and some other mothers? A group of us sisters were talking at Relief Society function and ended up camping for mothers day - for the next 15 years. Due to kid commitments I didn't go this year and I miss them. My life is so richly blessed in so many ways because of prayers that are constantly answer in ways I could never imagine.
Ah, and then there are the "sisters" that we bear and raise. My two girls are sisters as they change and enhance my life with their unique characteristics and talents.
In health, in style, in childcare, on the Internet, at school, teaching, volunteering, work, everything that makes my life fun fulfilling and special all comes with sisters. I can't ask for what I really need because I don't know I need it beforehand I just pray and enjoy the blessings.
Thank you Lord for all my wonderful sisters!

Heart Full

2010-09-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

We're going to miss Jim on our daily walks

The past two months have been up and down on the emotional richter scale. One day while walking by last month, Jim told us his wife had fallen in the night and he found her the next morning and when they examined her at the hospital they found she had had a stroke. For the next two weeks we watched a dramatic change come over Jim. He had been slowly ambling over his yard wishing he could do more and by the end of the 2 weeks he'd gone to sitting, sitting with a blanket, sitting with his feet up wrapped in blankets, to sitting with oxygen. He would report how Madge was doing each day because his son would come everyday and bring him where he needed to go.
I went to Utah and when Laura and I went walking he told us she died. Ahhh, he was so sad and so were we. Two days later he threw away the oxygen and hardly used the walker. I was hopeful that his heart was doing better and his legs were less swollen. We visited for a little longer when we went by. He seemed to be shaky on his feet and reported falling a few times. We'd watch for his cane to hand to him when he showed us pictures on his walls and told us about his life.
I went to Texas to drive back with my daughter and found out Jim died the night I got back home. Every time I leave something bad happens.
89 years old, married for 60 plus and left a heartbroken son and some very sad neighbors.

I wonder what he said when he met Madge again.

I wonder if he'll remember us and all his neighbors who loved him.

Laura is doing it again!

2010-09-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

Mountains of fruit, bowls and bowls of salad, cookies (hundreds) all individually packaged, and a huge list of things to remember to put in the car tomorrow. She is catering the Concord High Senior Picnic. She isn't doing the hamburgers though she is bringing the grill. It is awesome to watch a genius at work. How she can make the mounds of groceries disappear and reappear as recognizable delicious food is fantastic. Laura starts out with a list (after her daughter told her what she wanted) then organizes it into stores. So we hop into her van and pick up ingredients from different places - this lady really knows her stores and which will give her the better deal. Some of the owners know her personally and she knows just who to ask for the best produce (or please reserve 7 3lb packages of chopped romaine for Monday). Then there is a place in her dinning room and front entry that the boxes and sacks usually end up. Baking and preparing are meticulous with gloves and precise cuts. (Not my scoop melon and chop up - no Laura's are all square approximately the same size!) Her mother-in-law (Grandma Nausin) supplies an extra oven, refrigerator and makes up huge batch of Snickerdoodles. There are special sized muffin cups, cookie sleeves, matching napkins and exactly what plates and cups go together. I watch Laura slice and dice, copy exactly what she does and then try to speed up the operation. But it's her presentation that takes the prize! Laura brings her own utensils, serving bowls, platters etc. and a picnic is really poetry when it's done!

Don't Put That On Your Blog

2010-09-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

Twice in one week
I'm taking someone's picture and they immediately say, "Don't put that on your blog!" So a few people -very few- know that I have a blog and that I occasionally post on it. So what is this big deal about the hordes from the public (yeah right) finding out a few things about their life?
My children - who don't get on - all have informed me they don't want to be featured here or there. My husband doesn't want stories about him put on, my sister says maybe but not much, my greater family I don't ask, - so I'm left with...... my friends! Except some of them don't want to be the main scoop either.
Maybe I'll go to the dog park and look around.......

I think I'm a Lizard

2010-08-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

I've noticed this summer that I change personalities when I'm with other ladies. Sometimes I talk a lot, sometimes I'm quiet, it seems to depend on who I'm with. At girls camp, with my mom, with my best friend, even with my sister - I adapt to a person that I may not be with another person. Rebekah, my daughter says I try to please everybody - including salesperson (she thinks that's going too far). I never really noticed until she pointed it out and now I've been looking all this summer what I do when I'm with different people.
Chameleons change for protection - but I don't feel threatened, nor do I have an extra tail. I do acquire different skills.
Years ago I was friends with Ann Brown and we would go to look at wood working tools and I got all kinds of things for the cub scouts I worked with. Every Christmas I would watch over her shoulder and help out with all kinds of nifty gadgets like wind chimes and wooden benches. I gave away really cool stuff. She could always come up with any tie slide I could dream up.
Now I'm walking with Laura and seeing all kinds of flowers and my front yard actually looks nice more often. I've had fun going to huge gardens and touring old houses. Mealtimes have improved immensely. I was looking at Bonnie Mattson's table and wondering if I should get some matching napkins to go with my plates. I'll be seeing my sister Susy this weekend and I'll probably end up doing somethings she likes and coming home with something special.
I think my photography is the only talent that doesn't come from somebody else ----- but you know my mom paints pictures.....

Did you know there is a BEACH at Lake Tahoe?!!

2010-08-08T23:06:00.000-07:00

This summer has been great doing the California tourist thing!

I walked across the Golden Gate Bridge -( it is really orange/red).....

played with the kids at Boardwalk in Santa Cruz (burn at the beach)....

and then Rachel, Diane Chambers and I went to Lake Tahoe. Now having been in California for more than 20 years I've had many friends 'go to Tahoe' for the weekend, a day trip, or a week and heard what fun it is.

ITS TONS OF FUN!!! AND IT HAS A BEACH!

A beach surrounded by mountains and trees and alpine forests. Wind, sun, puffy clouds and jet skis, canoes, kayak, speed boats, pleasure boats, fishermen, and water skiers! There is even a huge paddle boat. Those in the know said the sand was driven up and dumped there.

I couldn't resist asking these boys to jump for me - no I have no idea who they are - just boys having fun!

Late in the afternoon the clouds came and thunder and a bit of lightening, so we went home after a bit of sight-seeing. For those in the know I about had heart failure hugging the car door between Emerald bay and another lake up there - two cliffs with a tiny road in between.

I love California!

Didn't walk with Laura last week,

2010-07-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

but I did walk a lot......a whole lot. Up hill down hill and across camp back and forth. Girls camp is really a wonderful place to be. The elements are the same each year. Something bad always happens, a miracle two, three or four takes place, blessings are given, and prayers are answered. Walnut Creek Stake Girls camp is mostly a hiking camp and as such as adverse conditions are built into the structure of the program. You can't take ten to twenty girls, sleep in the mountains, jump off boulders into ice melted lakes, cook your own food and not have stress and aches and pains somewhere along the line. So answers to prayers are very important and real.

What do You do in the Summertime?

2010-07-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Having a dog is really fun, having a dog who loves water is superb! Add a few boys in the mix -

Hilarious!

Nice job somebody did - watch this

2010-06-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Bonnie really has some great things on her blog, so check out this commercial on youtube. I have no idea where it was shown initially. I love it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-8PBx7isoM

Creating a City

2010-06-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

Girls Camp preparation are under way and have been for many months. It is now getting down to crunch time. Jeffrey asked how many man hours it took to prepare. I just started laughing. We are creating a city (in President Hunt's words) and going over details and asking volunteers and girls to create a safe, fun, spiritual, adventurous week in the woods is fun and a little mind boggling. Ahhh, I'm off to the level 1 pre-camp meeting.....

and to think I only do the paperwork....

maybe a little art work....

how many preparation hours are spent for one week in the year?

Picking up Andrew

2010-05-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

We arrived in the City of Brotherly Love, and toured Independence Hall and the surrounding areas of our country's history, it was great. The really wonderful part of the trip was joining up with Andrew and meeting his Mission President and his wife to say goodbye to two years of work and dedication to the Lord.

We met a few of the people Andrew had association and interactions with. This is Rosa in Reading. She is a strong beautiful person.

Andrew has a love for this family also in Reading and I personally was amazed to find they hadn't been members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints for years.

The lady on the left had a miraculous experience with her daughter and knew the Elders message was important. I loved talking and getting to know the people who Andrew had taught.

What a great family in Scraton, Pennsylvania! They were fun, warm and happy.

The members in Scraton were unique and hospitable. The stories they told of their conversions were fantastic. I loved being there and would love to meet any of them again. The lady on the left invited us to dinner and had to leave before we got there to take her father to the hospital. Well the others showed up and had a get together and carried on until she came home! They were all friendly, warm and just the people you would want to back you up. I could really live there.

Then we traveled from the top of his mission down to almost the bottom in Delaware. We met with the missionaries who were in Andrew's last area (with his former companion Elder Chan) and their investigators and new converts. Wow what a day. They went around the circle and told me how they had met Andrew and each gave a warm testimony. What a wonderful day as a mother and a member of the church. Life is really sweet!

Then we went out in the country and met this family that has a baby that was born in January, only 2 pounds and is the cutest healthy little girl. I fell in love with all the kids.

We also met with another lady that Andrew had been teaching but she didn't want her picture anywhere, but the love she had for Andrew was genuine and heartfelt. A great visit and soul filling.

Michael is playing this morning.....

2010-05-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful way to get up in the morning!

There is just something magical about live music. Concerts, plays, even theater sounds better live than a recording. Recordings are wonderful and remind us what it was like when we were there, or give someone else a taste of what it was like. Kinda of like having a picture. Experiencing in person is the best. So having Michael practice is really a treat for all of us. Live music of all types.

It is amazing to me how much my children have blessed and influenced my life. The each bring talents and blessings and have made me into a different person because of their peculiarities. Michael has insured that I am on time for my meetings. As a very young boy he did not want to walk into church late - so we are on time. Each child has molded and shifted my life for the better.

Watching the service of angels

2010-04-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Sisters in Zion - isn't that an awesome phrase? "We'll all work together......" There is a lady who has intersected my life first as a school teacher for my son, then in the church, and recently in a choir.

Virgina Walker is a totally awesome woman who has perfected her craft to a spectacular degree. If you can hear, sing and listen she will raise your ability to another level. If you have musical talent she can elevate you to greatness. She is one of the brilliant teachers. A very organized woman who looks at every detail. Have you ever read the scripture about *heart, mind, and soul? - I watched it in action over the course of 5 weeks. When Sister Walker teaches and leads a song she uses her mind, face, voice, feet, arms, fingers, and her whole soul pours out. I'll probably never be the same. I certainly will never sing those songs the old way again. Their message keeps running through my mind.

*Doctrine and Covenants 4:2

Sisters at work

2010-03-06T21:22:00.000-08:00

I started this particular blog because I awakened to the realization that who I run (or walk) around with affects my life in a big way. Since then I've come to an awareness of the bigger picture of all those whom I have associated with that have a profound effect on aspects of my life. Women in many circles of my life.

I went to Portland with some friends to support our friend at the wedding and met her daughter's mother-in-law Robin Garner. A very nice, talented woman and mother of seven children. Her home is beautiful and she is charming, generous and experienced.

She was very gracious to her guests and made everyone welcome.

When they came down to the open house a week later, she and her husband helped with all the set up and stayed until the very end of clean-up. I was impressed with the family and took special notice of her. Well she said something I've been thinking about ever since, as they were saying goodbye.

Robin said she would probably never meet us again, but would always remember the ladies who supported and went to help at the wedding and open house of their friend.

A friend invited me to come over when I first moved into the Clayton Valley 1st ward where I met more women and we formed a playgroup. I remember when our kids were three years old and in the nursery, and we went to the park, and on field trips, camped out together, and took pictures of our children dancing at the prom. We've grown with each other and helped each other out and we couldn't be any closer than my own sisters. That's what they are my sisters.

We care for each other, watch each others back, and help out whenever there is a need. We've seen each other in happy times and stressful times. Cheered each other on, sympathized, and encouraged when needed. Maybe I know more about them than my own sisters. It's nice being reminded sometimes.

The circle keeps expanding and I meet more women who are influencing my life and shaping and molding it. More ladies who I want to have as a sister. I guess that's the joy of living long. Lots of sisters.

I can't help but wish they were helping me with one of my child's wedding.

Jeffrey is gone tonight

2010-01-30T23:04:00.000-08:00

I have extra time because Jeffrey is in Utah and there is nobody to keep the bed warm. He always sleeps by the window and blocks the cold air, so tonight I'll have to close the window up tight. Little things make me grateful for companions, spouses, friends, sisters, and those who do the simple things that keep me comfortable and happy. I sure hope I can be a good friend. Good friends mean a lot to me and I hope they like me in their life just as much I like them! It is so nice to watch and learn from the enthusiasm of the talents of those I spend time with. Well, goodnight

A Wedding for a Friend

2010-01-03T10:41:00.001-08:00

Jennifer Lambertson married Trent Wright on Saturday and I just knew where I'd find Laura - and I was right. If you are looking for good food, Laura knows how to do it!

She's still shy about having an actual photo but if I follow her on the run, I can usually get a shot or two and sometimes it doesn't turn out bad.

So it is sad when I cut off her face when she has a great expression and everything else is good!

I've Officailly Made It to Good Mom Status

2009-11-30T20:53:00.000-08:00

Nathan paid me the ultimate compliment just before he left when he said he didn't know which meal was better - Thanksgiving or the ones before and after. Ahh music to my ears after the effort and planning!!!

"The Cat Came back the very next day......"

2009-11-10T20:04:00.000-08:00

Our neighbors called and said our cat had insisted on coming into their house - odd, very odd as Sarabi is skittish and very shy. So Jeffrey went over and brought back the cat. One look in the light and I told him it wasn't ours. The neighbors said, no way could they keep it because of their dogs. Sooooo, after pictures and signs posted and waiting it seems we own another cat - well 3 month old kitten that apparently has been dropped off.

He really is a beguiling creature - maybe a little too much attention needed. The first few days he would sit on our laps, books, computers, and anywhere we were. We finally just put him out when it was warm.

but he always came back.

So now we're going to keep him. Michael named him Odysseus (Man of wiles).

Friends and Fear

2009-10-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Rachel helped me get ready for a Pack Meeting at Diane Chambers house. While sweeping the walk their dogs came barreling out to greet her and 'help' her sweep and of course bring her a ball. As I was watching their antics I realized how much Rachel has changed in her confidence with large dogs.
I think Montana is some kind of mastiff - though a little dumb and loveable, and Chase is a friendly pit bull. To Rachel they were just dogs having fun. Just a year and a half ago that scenario wouldn't have happened. Diane was the one who encouraged us to get a dog and found a puppy for us to take care of when she found the black Lab Michael was looking for.
What a difference for my girl!
Aren't friends the best thing ever!

Hey I've noticed........

2009-10-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

Last night at supper Jeffrey and the kids enjoyed the homemade pizza and Jeffrey said, "Hey I've noticed our meals have been really good lately." The reason for that is because I've been walking with Laura. I tend to do, or talk, or act a lot like the people I hang around with. It's been going on since Junior High. I pick up words, actions and thoughts of those around me and make it part of my life. Sometimes the effects fade over time and sometimes they stay with me. A few years ago I picked up 'hecka' from my teenagers but since they aren't here saying it anymore I haven't noticed myself saying it. But 'eh' from my mission seems to be a permanent fixture.
I like good food and the compliments that come with it. Hope it stays with me.

Michael assures me these taste good -

2009-10-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

It has always been interesting to me how the interconnections and women you meet, get to know, learn to love, and play with have such a profound impact in our lives.
Little threads interwoven into a complex beautiful pattern in our character development.

So guess what?! I've learned to make some cookies without any gluten. I have a friend who can't have gluten (did you know oatmeal and wheat have gluten?) so when ever I make treats for all my visiting teaching ladies she couldn't have them. When I found she wasn't diabetic, I looked into recipes and went to the Harvest House for the ingredients - Presto! Now I can send her treats too!

I can't help but wonder how she takes the sacrament and how does she travel the mine field of church suppers and Relief Society luncheons. Tough always having to ask what is in something.

Ralph and Mary's House

2009-10-04T17:11:00.000-07:00

Beverly and I visited Ralph and Mary (from the Navy Reunion) and Ralph let me in on a fun activity he does once in awhile - feed the wild birds.

So the trick is to throw peanuts out the window for a few minutes and all the birds around come flying in, then set them just on the window sill while I'm sitting a foot away with a camera.

And those bold blue Jays will come right up and get the peanuts! But they never picked the little one, just the big one

I finally figure out it was different Jays not the same one

Ralph says they bury them and come back for more

He said if I was patient and waited a bit they would even take them out of my hand!

Summer Place

2009-09-27T22:33:00.000-07:00

Beverly, my mother-in-law called a few weeks ago and asked if I'd like to go to the beach with her - awww me and beaches were made for each other!

So instead of sticking around Concord in the 100 plus weather of the last few days, I traveled to Monterey and enjoyed the Beach with Beverly and got to meet some World War vets who were friends of my late father-in-law. They had been singled out in Boot Camp and asked to volunteer for the intelligence operations and the friendships and loyalty they developed as very young men is strong and vital today.

These are the women who stand by them - Phyllis (sp?) , Nancy, Beverly, and Mary -wives to Sam, Rodger, Duke, and Ralph.

We ate very well at great resturants, and took a bus tour of movie sites done in Monterey. He would show a clip on the Monitor overhead and we would see the place it was actually filmed. Very fun. We stopped in Pebble Beach - where some films have been done, and took in the beautiful course and Lodge.

Then we headed up to Paradise and attended a luau where Kim, Beverly's daughter and her granddaughter Jessica surprized her with a dance especially for her wedding anniversary that day and a lei.

Then back to Concord to play with her other grandchildren and then go to church with us on Sunday.

My children really love their Grandmama and I couldn't ask for a better mother. She is really terrific and I hope to be just like her when I grow up.

WHAT IS GOING ON?!!!!!

2009-09-22T15:31:00.000-07:00

I'm admiring the changing colors in the morning looking out over the rooftops from our bathroom window and today I'm slugging around in triple digit heat. How is it possible to be fall and deep summer on the same day?

Can you feel it?

2009-09-17T21:44:00.000-07:00

Despite the 80 plus degree weather, there is just a hint in the air, a smell, a wisp of change.

A few days of cloud cover, thunder and lighting, a sprinkling of water

It's peeking around the corner
A season change!

Hero Material

2009-09-08T18:57:00.000-07:00

Laura was telling me about her accident pron Labor Day pool party. One kid got jumped on and sprained his shoulder, one guy got a cement rash from slipping on the side of the pool. A neighbor had the paramedics come. One little girl floated off the step and her mom pulled her out immediately - but the most dramatic incident of the day was when a little boy stepped out into deep water and began flailing about. Kelly Kruse jumped in clothes, shoes, brand new cell phone, remote key pad and all and pulled the tyke out.

Kelly Kruse scoutmaster-2 of his Eagle Scouts

Laura said one woman asked, "Is he in trouble?" and another man was rising from his chair to fix the problem, but Kelly Kruse had an instinctive reaction and was in the pool before anybody else.

So what makes a hero?
A willingness to act
An instinctive reaction to danger
Circumstance

I'll bet he thinks he's an ordinary man who just happened to be there. Yup Hero Quality!

BYU Oklahoma Nail Bitter

2009-09-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

So I come home during the second quarter to angst and realized I was in the midst of blue-blood BYU fans. I like BYU I hope they win

but my blood pressure stays the same

and my heartbeat doesn't run faster

like some I know!

Ok, now life is A-OK, everybody here is HAPPY!!! That one little extra point is really good.

Friends getting married

2009-08-23T09:36:00.000-07:00

Sherry and Colton Lacy - August 22, 2009

Some of the friends and bridesmaids

Weddings are a great place to gather friends together!

Sherry's reception had elaborate lights, flowers, lattice work and ribbons - it looked great!

More friends gathered at the reception

The food was superb under Laura Nausin's direction, the tri-tip was out of this world!

OK back to the wedding and friends of Andrew's:

Laura's influence while on vacation -

2009-08-11T10:09:00.001-07:00

Going on a unexpected but really great trip to Pajaro Dunes last Friday, we stopped for gas when I saw this organic stand and had to stop for the flowers and strawberries, and ended up with

something I'd never seen before

blue potatoes

actually they were very good and really did taste like regular potatoes

they just had tougher skins and were blue - or purple!

How is this Laura's influence? I'm trying lots of new things and of course the flowers alone made me think of her. I did buy the Dahlia's and they made me smile every time I saw them. She's really great sister material and I can't wait for our next girls night (day, morning, weekend) out!

Southwest is MY Airline!!!!!!!

2009-08-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

OK, I have these blond moments at times, who knows why. When I went up to Portland, Oregon with my sisters we had a really great time at the coast and along the seashore. So on Saturday we all traveled to the airport really early and I watched them get on their plane and fly off to Utah, then I made my way over to my gate. So far so good. Found the gate I'd be leaving at in a few hours. I wandered around for a little bit check the monitor and made a few calls to family and friends. Checked the monitor walked around a bit more, bought a book and supper and went back to my gate. People getting off but nobody getting on, odd I thought. So I check and find the plane left 20 minutes ago. How did this happen? Then I notice the monitor is the arrivals - duh- great - so blond - etc. etc. Now what? I wish I was always cool instead of emotional, so I explain the situation to an attendant leaving and she said good thing I caught her as the airline closes early on Saturdays and no one would have been in the building in a half an hour. She said Mario would be my best bet as he solves problems. When she calls him back he asks me to wait while he get some minors off the plane and finds their escorts. He come back with a girl and tells her to wait by him while he finishes some paperwork, her mom comes signs her out and shows her license and then he turns to help me. He's really great about showing me all the options I have and I find out the Sundays in Portland are super busy, so he gets me an upgrade and tactfully tells me to be at the gate 10 minutes before boarding so I don't lose my seat tomorrow. His contacts with the hotel who takes distressed passengers is full, so he walks me to a desk which has all the hotels in the area connected to the airport and after calling a few I find a last minute cancellation. I tearfully call Jeffrey - he's fantastic - and get on a shuttle and drop into a nice bed for the night at Soldier Pony Best Western. (Very nice hotel in case you want to know!) But my hero Mario isn't done. A few days later a package comes in the mail because I'd left my picture of my sisters and I in Old Fashion Western on the desk and he knew who it was! I LOVE Southwest Airlines because they are affordable, don't make you pay extra for luggage, I can go just about anywhere I need to and I especially love Mario in the Portland Airport for service above and beyond at Southwest Airlines!

Pacific Grove with Laura and company!

2009-08-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to run down the coast with Laura, Dominic and Rachel to visit the bay and ocean, the Aquarium, antique shops, and stay at a house of her neighbors that is being fixed up. Of course we had to stop at fine dining on our way down.

Fascinating to see animals we would never be able to glimpse if it wasn't for these exhibits.

Laura's neighbors have this place that was made in 1896 and they are fixing it up to live in. It has corner cupboards and interesting niches.

The beach was only a little way down the street.

Dominic waiting outside of a antique shop.

All in all a fun trip to visit one of my favorite places to see old and new sights.

What a grand week!

2009-07-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to July of this year!

More braids every day

Love those dirty duties

Noel disinfecting the tables

Home sweet home

Only 1/2 hour to Go!!!

2009-07-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

Rachel is taking Piano lesson from Lindsay Bradburn and for the last 3 days she's been planning. She has taken out every clarinet book and tried to play all the songs from the notes she knows. Then in spectacular fashion, she was asked to babysit the Bradburn children! Oh my, we've gone online to find games, she's been to the dollar store to get just the right thing, and now with 1/2 an hour to go she can hardly be in one place. It's awesome to watch a kid who has no younger siblings get so excited about watching someone else's.

I'm "really Looking forward to Girls Camp

2009-06-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

As I paint, sand, and glue "beads" for the lanyards, the thought of girls camp is delicious! I can't wait to go and see how everybody is again and connect out in a great setting. Rucker Lake here we come!

Pool Ladies

2009-06-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

We have a rule that what's in the Pool stays in the Pool, so no pictures. It is loads of fun to go to Laura's house in the morning and do a pool workout. Sometimes there is lots of people and sometimes there is just a few but it's sure a nice way to start the day. You can do so much more in the pool than on dry land. The range of muscles are so much easier to do and I feel so much lighter. There is absolutely no way I could kick my foot up to shoulder level except in the pool. Then of course is talking with fascinating women and the new ideas that are generated. Good times!

You can make.....

2009-06-24T23:17:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday- Father's Day- I made a special meal for the family - because I went shopping with Laura, and she always makes a great meal sound doable, and lets me know what's really on sale. It was great and not all that hard. For dessert I decided to use Regg's strawberries in a pre-made chocolate pie shell and top it with whip cream. When I pulled out the carton of cream to whip it up, my kid said, "You can make whip cream?" I just started laughing as I realized how far down the ready-made path I've gone until I started walking with Laura - who always uses real vanilla, garlic cloves, and makes her chicken nuggets from scratch. When I served the pie, the laughter started again when Jeffrey said there wasn't enough sugar in the whipped cream. I've got to renew a few cooking skills. I had to assure my family over and over that I wasn't laughing at them but at my limited culinary skills.

Jim was out today

2009-06-12T21:04:00.001-07:00

Back in August, or was it September? Anyway when Laura and I first started walking we established a route- after a few weeks a bad storm came up one night. When we were walking our route we found an older Gentleman pacing outside his house that had a huge oak tree laying in giant pieces across his lawn. He told us how it had come down cracking his roof, narrowly missing the room they were in because of some wires that had been strung a few years back. The oak was huge, the hole in the center was large enough to fall through, a man could not put his arms around the whole trunk - maybe two men.
So every few days we'd meet Jim again and he'd tell us the story. After a few weeks he calmed and seemed to know who we were and we'd watch as they cut and cut and finally took away that whole tree and then he waited and watched for the men to fix his roof, gutters and the parts that were broken. We'd talk to him and got to know him over the months watching his house get fixed, his lamp put up and his lawn and a few flowers start to grow again. Fascinating man who grew up and lived his life around here. We didn't connect for a few months this winter and finally in May we saw him once and now he's out again.

This is an new oak seedling that came up and Jim planted it right where the old oak stood. He watches and waters it.

Jim and Laura chatting - June 12, 2009

Pack Meeting on Mt. Diablo

2009-05-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

Marched up Mt. Diablo

Received Awards

Andres "bridged" over to the Boy Scouts"

Teemaree and Andres Capener

And then we strode back down again!

It's easier to post when somebody asks for someone specific

2009-05-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

Here they are together!

Cousins

She's in the middle by her cousin

Back from the hike

You have to watch out for those broken legs

Traditions - What Keeps Us Friends

2009-05-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

The annual breakfast of the Clayton Valley 1st ward has gone on ever since we moved here and when Michele March (nee Nausin) was asked she remembers it from her childhood. It's a nice day to meet with friends and friends of friends and reconnect in an easy way. We can also meet different members of the family we might not run into during every day life.

Nothing better than a little physical activity to notice your friends.

Discovery - the essence of life.

Saying hello and how are you doing.

It's really good to say hello. Janelle was young when I first saw her at these breakfasts, now she brings her own children.

Just thinkg ahead.....from before

2009-05-23T22:05:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again when I'm thinking about Girls Camp. The first year I went to this Stake Camp was quite an eye opener! Pam thinks anything to do with camping is not hard.

This is an awesome picture because you go up to the top of the world and get to look around at all the different lakes up there. This happens to be Rucker Lake and that 'rock' you see the left of Lindsay's face is actually the 'rock' we swim to from the dock on the right of her face to earn our swimming bead.

Ah two intrepid campers! This was just after a hike and I'll probably never catch them tired again.

Congratulations to Kayla!

2009-05-18T10:25:00.000-07:00

Aren't these kids cute! It's amazing watching them grow up and go to college. There was a time I imagined being a mom of little kids forever. I couldn't see it end. Now they are all leaving and starting their own lives! Grandma - just call me Nona I'd love it.

What do you do with your friends - for 15 years?

2009-05-11T15:20:00.001-07:00

Go Camping every Mother's day!!!!
You find out new things about your buddys. Did you know Teemaree and Lisa love those math puzzles? I think I'll try one out.

You watch their kids grow up and new ones join in.

Way fun to see the babies as adults!

2009-05-08T09:14:00.000-07:00

Talking today with Laura as we walked around the streets, I realized again how much the lives of those who come into my life change, enhance, and alter it around. Especially my own family.
I was talking about Michael and how as a little boy we never came to church late because he was always saying, "Are we late, are we late mom?" He motivated us to be on time. Nathan came home from Kindergarten and said that Sam played soccer and he wanted to too. So Jeffrey became an assistant coach to a sport he had never played or practiced. I'm not sure if he had even watched an entire game or not. But we definitely came to embrace the game as an entire family. Nate was the magnet that included the kids together. Rebekah cared how something looked and can make any place more organized and prettier. She knows people and how they are doing. She is loyal to her friends and they love her back. She has always made me strive to do better.
Andrew has the art of subtly moving people. He has an agenda and quietly but firmly makes it happen. He wanted a prize basketball team and got deacons from other wards to come and I had mothers calling to thank me (right like it was even my idea) for Andrew getting their boys to come to activities. He is usually surrounded by good friends who are doing good things. We all fall in line and love doing it. Matthew is the force of nature. Life happens at a more exciting pace when he is in the house. Matt makes you think about life and where you stand in it. He has no fear and boldly goes where no one else has thought of. My lovely Rachel is one of the sweetest nicest friends to me, her siblings, and associates at school. People feel good when they are with her. Of course middle school is around the corner, then we'll see what her real talents are.

Then the ultimate in personality, physical, spiritual, and mind stimulus changes is Jeffrey. My life is so intertwined and woven with him it is hard to remember what I originally thought when I was single. It's when I'm with different siblings who have vastly different outlooks on life that I see how spouses have such a huge roll in who you really are. There isn't one part of my life that hasn't been enhanced because Jeffrey is part of it. Proud to be Mrs. Jeffrey Adams

Rebekah wondered if she'd be bored....

2009-05-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

2 Happy Girls

Jennie and Rebekah walking at April 2009 BYU Graduation- A really good day.

April 21,1984

2009-04-21T10:09:00.001-07:00

Today was my wedding day 25 years ago. Amazing, stunning even. Not that I've lived with Jeffrey for 25 years as he is really a wonderful man to live with. Just that this is my life and I couldn't imagine it any other way. This anniversary is so typically us. 4 months ago or so we planned out some great itineraries. Hawaii, Grand Canyon, Monterey beach, Cruise in Alaska.... actually we went to Europe, Australia and Israel on the computer. So instead of Tahiti we are spending this week in our usual divide and conquer fashion. I'll be heading to Utah to watch our oldest walk in graduation from BYU and help our fourth get ready to go to Israel for Study abroad. Our second doesn't need us since he just started a new semester of school and the third is on a mission. Our fifth will be on a band trip to Seattle most of the week, so that just left the youngest all alone at different friends homes. I was getting frustrated because she was getting the bad end of the deal and Jeff said he'd stay home and take her to Disneyland for a day. Now isn't this the best anniversary?!!! Actually in a bit we will be headed off alone because we really love being together and find life fulfilling, warm and exciting as a couple. I'm voting for the beach and something tells me it won't be hard to coax Jeffrey into the same mind wave.

She is Changing my Life!

2009-04-12T20:38:00.000-07:00

Laura is a pretty awesome lady and the more I know her the more my life is changing for the better. Soooo Friday we set out and went to Winco - a great grocery store in Pittsburgh or Antioch that has some really great sales every day that I've been there. We bought groceries and came back and put some pork roast on to cook for 5 hours while we shopped for Wedding rings and sized up Laura's to fit and then on for Pots and roasting pans at Macy's and looked for 1/2 priced books for Laura's vacation, and on to Aaron's for picture frames for some photos I took of Norma Nausin's tulips. We had lunch at Quiznos and I highly recommend the Chicken Carbona with flat bread. After we picked up our children from school and gave Norma the pictures, I came back and shredded up the pork with her and was the queen of the kitchen for an hour or so when the kids ate the shredded pork and mole (that's with an accent over the e I can't figure out how to do) that I had made at Laura's house in burritos I served. What a great day!
It's nice to learn how to cook and have the gumption to go shopping. I have a nice roasting pan and a pot that strains, steams and saute's (another accent on the e) that she highly recommended. My goal is to learn one new great dish each week and make my home and yard look good just like Laura's.

Next Week It'll be 25 Years

2009-04-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

On April 21, 2009 I will have been an Adams for as long as I was a Lore. It will be my 25 wedding anniversary and 3 months shy of my 50th birthday. 50 can you believe it!!! The 25 years of marriage is fantastic. Life just keeps getting better. I feel more contentment, joy and love each year. We really are getting to know each other better as the years go by. I very much love Jeffrey Lon Adams. Turning 50 on the other hand is terrible. When I was newly married I watched a lady who had 7 children and seem to know all about life. She taught Seminary, was a great support to her husband, and knew what was up with her children's lives and had answers to us younger girls questions. I just knew I'd be in her place once I was older and mature. What happened!? I almost feel I know less about raising children than when I started. (I was pretty arrogant, but got the stuffing knocked out more with each child). I was going to be talented, smart, and know how life worked. Now my answers would be to have a great husband and get lucky with your children. It sure wouldn't hurt to have a degree and something really fun as a hobby. Good luck guys, you'll have to find your own answers!

----Jeffrey's original ring got too small, and my ring is somewhere in the church shrubbrey after an unfortunate accident with a stray ball - so we are getting new rings for our 25th! We decided the one at the end with gold and smooth silver on the top.-----

Only on A Cloudy Morning

2009-04-11T22:44:00.000-07:00

It is interesting to note that only on cloudy, troubled sky mornings can you see the colors and textures to be amazed at. If everything is smooth without turbulence then it changes from night to day without showcasing the many colors that exist. So it is with the Lord's mercy and grace. It is just not as noticeable unless there is some kind of trouble in our lives or those around us.

Thank You Lord that I'm Not Blind

2009-04-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

Color everywhere! I'm sorry I can't bring the smell of this red and white rose to you as it is terrific! There are spring, some summer and lots of wildflowers bursting out in every corner. Lots of different colors, textures, smells and other delights to the senses. Of course the dark side comes with pollen, waves of green and yellow dust.....But the color is magnificent!

Just Thinking after a Moody Blues' Concert

2009-04-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

Last night Jeffrey and I went to a Moody Blues' Concert in Oakland Fox Theatre. The Theater was very impressive and the crowd was lots of fun. I guess the Moody Blues were really popular 30 years ago and they have a fan base that has never forgotten them. I'm a convert after being married to a fan. So I had just as much fun watching 65 or 70 year old white haired and wrinkled couples dancing, swaying, hands in the hair, rocking to the music. There were a few young people, many gray haired and lots of white haired or no hair men and women all gathered to applaud a band whose stars are dwindling.
They are from England and have a "higher and higher" song that celebrates the men in space and shows an American Flag - everybody cheers. Does England celebrate American accomplishments, do we celebrate English ones? I must admitt I loved France, Spain, and Italy when we visited on a trip a few years ago. Are there songs written by Americans applauded by European's? The idea of lasting structures and communities was brought home when I visited places that had been around for hundreds of years. Fields handed down from father to son. Walls built in Roman times which are still standing. Vineyards and roads, things made to last.

Migration of Monarchs!

2009-04-01T19:24:00.000-07:00

For the past week there are millions of Monarchs all flying north. Every gust of wind blows them around but where ever they flitter they end up going north. They travel about 4 to 8 feet off the ground and I have no idea where they rest and if they are in groups or just end up going the same way. I'll have to google it. No matter how many birds eat them, or cars smash them, kids chase them, or they get blown away thousands find a way to where they are suppose to be. It is really an amazing act of nature.

Nature doing it's thing while we watch!

2009-03-31T17:38:00.000-07:00

Awesome time we had! I really enjoy the older children's field trips versus the first graders with no attention span.
On a fifth grade field trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium the guide was talking to us and we were half listening while watching over her shoulder this otter and seagull eating.
Did the seagull steal his meal?Because she definitely has something -
And later he looks like he doesn't have much - though he was still on his back maybe clutching something.
Too bad I didn't have an extra long zoom lens!!

Walking in the Sun with a Friend

2009-03-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

Walking today with a dog and my friend was very nice. I get to hear so many great stories of people and happenings and enjoy the beautiful day, new flowers and the exercise. But when I got back I was reminded how fortunate I am because another friend is fighting a daily battle with cancer. She is so small and fragile and shuffles around her house. I wonder when the last time was that she walked around the block and felt the warm sun on her face. She has two young beautiful children and I wonder if she'll get to see them graduate from High School. Back in the day she could make anyone smile and had a bubbly generous personality. I see smiles once in awhile but the pain is etched into her face now. Her dog is walked by others, and sometimes getting out of bed is a huge struggle. So now I'm just watching my cat hiss at the dog out the window and knowing that I can walk around the block tomorrow watching the birds fly north and the new blossoms bud.

Knowing and actual doing

2009-03-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

When Rebekah was young she found too much sun would give her a bad reaction - almost an allergic reaction. So she deals with it. Nathan found he couldn't always keep warm. After having some tests done filming his circulatory system he found he is 'wired' differently than most. So he deals with it. Interesting that Rebekah spent 18 months in the Philippines and Nathan lived 2 years in Romania. They knew how to deal with their bodies. Having chocolate candy in the house for me just isn't possible.
"Half the battle to health is knowing our weaknesses," Lanette Hopkins
I really want to be healthy again with energy and the ability to walk, run and have fun. I guess that means dealing by buying no chocolate, etc. I am so very thankful Laura wanted to go walking.

Band Area Festival at Concord High School

2009-03-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

The Band at Concord High School sponsors a Festival every year and invites all the schools that feed into it to come and play with all the other schools. The last number is traditionally "America the Beautiful". This is the 2009 version.

2009-03-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

I missed walking with Laura today as she had a meeting and had to get some things accomplished. The sweetheart came over to the school to tell me because my phone had died and she didn't want me just waiting there. So I strode around the block with Sheila before I went to the fluency center at the elementary school where we teach kids to read better. It is absolutely beautiful this spring and there is color everywhere! For some reason the kids on the playground were having a good time without the anger that is there sometimes. I had such a good day I gave all the fifth graders a Mustang buck. This idea our principal Mrs. DeMott has of giving out bucks to good kids instead of just telling the trouble makers to knock it off is a great one. I'm being less and less of a witch and looking at the cute, funny, sometimes more quiet children that come to play at recess.

Dinner Rolls

2009-03-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

1 cube margarine or butter
1 cup milk
1/2 cup orange juice
2 eggs
1 pkg or TBSP yeast
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup sugar
6-8 cups flour

Heat milk and margarine in microwave until butter is melted and milk is very warm. In a large bowl mix 2 cups of the flour, sugar, salt and yeast. Add hot milk and margarine to dry ingredients. Mix well. Add orange juice and eggs. Beat until it forms gluten (2-3 minutes). Add flour a cup at a time until thick enough to knead. Add only enough flour to be able to knead wit out sticking. place in a greased bowl, greasing all areas of bread dough. Let double in size. Cut in half. Roll each half into a circle and brush with butter. Cut in half, then into quarters. Cut each quarter into thirds. Starting with largest end, roll to form a crescent. Place on baking sheet. Let rise again till double in size. Bake 10-12 minutes at 400 degrees. Brush with butter.
Note: Same dough can be use for scones or cinnamon rolls!

It's Laura's Birthday!

2009-03-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

It's Laura's birthday and she is making about 126 rolls for a dinner at church, then she'll be finishing the last touches of helping the High School for the Senior Banquet. She has made dozens of bar cookies, chocolate mousse and lemon water. Her husband is off work today and volunteered to take her out for dinner but she won't be back until late after setting up. I came over to help her out and left wondering if I was more company than help. Her rolls are wonderful but as I buttered, cut, and rolled my didn't look like hers.

This is how hers look, nice orderly and about the same size you'll note.

On the other hand this is what mine looked like:
Short or long fat or thin, we call it the LALC, or Linda Ann's learning curve.

She used left over dough to make some cinnamon rolls for Lindsay her daughter.

Dog and Cat

2009-03-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

This is the infamous Chica, a stray that the Nausin's adopted who can find trouble anywhere. Here we were all surprised because she just stayed under the table for the whole shower. (What's wrong?)- found out she had a fungus in her ear which was inhibiting her balance.
They have kept Vets in business for years. One bad episode was a bar of chocolate. It is hilarious when we go swimming in their pool because she loves to bite any water that moves. Whether it's from hoses, feet and hands splashing, or just a good jump, Chica is there to bite the water.
We see cats in various places, windowsills, gates, benches, trees, running across the street - But this is the first on a house vent. Maybe it was a warm spot destined to get the sun first.

2009-03-18T19:58:00.000-07:00

Sarabi loves looking outside. We have one window without a screen and she'll jump out onto the roof, explore and jump back in. This is actually rare to see her on the floor. She also loves ice-cream, if you dish up a bowl she wants to know what flavor it is - and maybe just a wee sample.
This dove must be deaf because she made her nest just above the kindergarten door. There are a few periods when the kids go inside or to lunch, but mostly she just ignores everybody. No sign of the little ones yet.

Today was only a short Day

2009-03-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

Laura is my walking partner and friend. Last August she asked if I wanted to walk with her and it really has been fun. You never really get to know someone until you walk (or live) with them. I have known her for a few years and worked with her in church but I've discovered what a really nice person she is. I mean this lady is always busy helping someone out. Making rolls for the teachers, catering a wedding, bringing lunch to nieces and nephews, her children, running errands for friends and neighbors, feeding the cat-dog-watering-pick up mail, this lady does it all.
Unless you are outside you just cannot feel what a great day it is. Laura's mother-in-law wanted some pictures of her tulips because she was going to be gone. There are really beautiful.

We started out watching Summer die, but this Spring as been spectacular.