P.S. dye Dreaming...

Where did SUMMER go???

2011-08-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

Yikes...its Aug.19...fastest summer on record!! (I think Ron and I need to start planning a trip:) We had a great Lake Powell trip over the 4th. with all our family. Wow the fireworks were Crazy. We were in a great canyon and were surrounded by echoes of fireworks, the sky was amazing. So glad the fireworks now come with glow in the dark arrows to let you know which way to light them..) I even waked surfed, I think thats what they call it. Darren didn't believe I could...I could read his mind...my OLD, OUT of SHAPE (polite for FAT!! because Darren is polite) mom will never get up!! Just had to show him. Just don't know if i'm brave enough to post the pictures of me in my swimming suit...haha.. more post to follow of our sweet new grandson Wyatt Tanner Wells...I tried to get them to use Tanners middle name Wesson...Wyatt Wesson Wells...www...they were not going for that! Hope your summer has been full of JOY!!
P.S... Britt post your pictures of you Wakesurfing...she got up first try along with Rachel...also your cute picture of your family all on the tube)

The Field Trip

2011-03-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

Brittney's out of town so Darren and I helped out today and went with Kate on her field trip to the Pony Farm. We had a great time...twice I got asked if I was Kate's mom...I am still laughing! Ms. Jaime and Ms. Holly are sooo great. I know Uncle Da wouldn't come right out and say he had fun....but check out the pics and decide for yourself:)

Grannybird's Sisters Visit

2011-03-31T18:31:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful heritage we have. I love to watch Granny bird and her sisters. They came to enjoy the warmth and help get GB organized (she kicked and screamed the whole time:). Her stuff is her stuff, period!! She got it from her mom and I got it from my mom. She turned 87 on Wednesday...as GB would say you ain't gonna teach an old dog new tricks...

MeRRy ChRisTMas....

2010-12-21T23:41:00.000-08:00

Just snapped this yesterday...maybe we'll be a little more organized next year! Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas...xoxo

Sweet Example

2010-11-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

What a sweet day...something about a funeral service to get your perspective readjusted!! Ron's mom is the sweetest lady. She grew old gracefully. She never seemed 'rushed', always time to sit and talk. I think my life has been a bit of a rush and I need to slow down and be a better 'mimi' and make the time to just sit and listen and be there. Thank you Helen for your wonderful example of missionary work, of serving in the temple and being so kind and sweet. She was so thankful for everyone and everything done for her. The last time we had her for the weekend when I put her to bed I can still hear her soft voice saying thank you for everything. You will be missed but I am so excited for you because I know you are with your eternal companion who loved you and served you so well and was SO excited to welcome you home.

2010-10-23T09:48:00.000-07:00

This is on Sister Susan Bunkers new blog....I loved it...thanks Susan just what I needed:)

attitude

Charles Swindoll wrote:

"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. The remarkable thing is...we have a choice every day of our lives regarding the attitude we embrace for that day. We cannot change our past. We cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude...I'm convinced that life is 10% what happens to me, and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you. We are in charge of our attitude."

Lake Powell....ahhhhh

2010-07-23T23:01:00.000-07:00

Cookie Jar....

This must be genetic...ask Uncle Mark!!
Cami is going to shoot me...she was sick for 2 days...still a great pic

What a great vacation spot. It is really a peaceful place, you have to put your blinker on and change lanes... into the slow lane. Ahhhh....so nice to SLOW down. Not alot of decisions to make, ummm what to wear? where shall we go to eat? It was so fun to spend time with our family. The game for 2010 was Cranium...let's see did the girls beat the boys? ( I can't remember) Really fun being there with Kate, she is a true blue Lake Powell girl, she did it all. The only thing that kinda threw her was having a rather large lizard cross our path one morning on our little hike. She just froze, her eyes got so BIG and she just started to GRRRRR at it. She slept up top every night and looked for a shooting star, the stars were amazing this year. Grandkids bring so much joy...Lucy Pearl was a little jewel, she is already so relaxed. She takes after her Aunt Rachel, who takes after her Aunt Kris....(I'm still working on learning the art of relaxing...)
P.S.....So blessed to live in this Beautiful, Free Country. I really felt it in Lake Powell, seemed like the American Flag was on alot of boats this year, maybe I just noticed it alittle more.

ENOUGH ALREADY....

2010-05-12T08:19:00.000-07:00

Do we really need to experience this??????

To fully appreciate and enjoy the tranquility....so it is in LIFE...the STorm before the CALM...

Love each moment...

2010-05-05T22:36:00.000-07:00

Miami....

Utah....

Orlando...

Grannybird's 86th...

It's been awhile dear blog...my intentions were so good in Jan.! I was going to do as good as Grama Linda so I could print my book at the end of the year and have a 'journal'. So many great things have happened these past month's....my sweet mom turned 86 young and we had a little celebration in her honor. We had a breakfast that morning with just the girls, we all wore purple and it was one of those moments...I said let's just go around the table and share a favorite memory, what you love about Grannybird, anything you want. Terra started, she shared very sweet feelings with us and we were all crying! I wish I would have videoed it all. Grannybird is a very special lady and has a way to make everyone feel they are her favorite. I feel blessed to be her daughter.
Then came Orlando and a very special day at the temple with Suzie and Brett(Ron's brothers daughter)...so glad I could be there....A breathtaking temple, when I walked into the Celestial Room...I stopped and ahhhhed. It was fun to go with Dave, Jane and Grandma Dye. Ron couldn't go so I was Grandma's roomate and she talked more than she has in a year...I loved being with her....
Then came Utah...Cami's half marathon and packing up a few years of treasures(she is her mother's daughter!) Tanner graduating...Cami and Tanner went to dinner with his family so I went to Macaroni Grill with my sister Carol, her husband Walt and their daughter Lindsay we sat in the back corner when I looked over there was NieNie and her family...a wave of emotion came over me...I said to Lindsay look who is next to us and she said I have to talk to her. Carol and Walt hadn't read her blog(I'm sure they have now!) I kept thinking thru dinner I don't want to bother her,( can you imagine how often she gets interrupted) let her just have privacy and a dinner with her family but I wanted to just give her a hug! They finished first and so fast Lindsay jumped up and went and said hi and gave her a hug.
It was SO amazing to meet her, she is so gracious and you feel like she is a long lost friend..I cried and could hardly get my words out...her mom was so nice...she has touched all of us who follow her daily struggles and make our struggles seem light. Her faith is daunting...she is my hero. She is a wonderful missionary, how many lives has she touched for good?...I think of the day when she will meet the Savior face to face and he will say "Well done, thou good and faithful servant"...I'm thankful for her example of passing thru earthly trials gracefully...I want to hear those words too from the Savior...I have so far to go...
Then back to Miami with Ronnie boy for an insurance trip...oh so fun...too short!!

Sit Still.

2010-02-03T22:11:00.000-08:00

Hummingbirds have always intrigued me. I don't think I've ever seen one just sit still. They have so much energy and are always buzzing around. It was good to witness this little guy just chillin'....sometimes its good to just sit still and take it all in. I'm SO grateful for All my blessings. The Lord loves us, everyone, He has a plan.....

Grannybird meets Martha!

2009-12-08T23:08:00.000-08:00

Martha Stewart was at the Rampart Williams-Sonoma signing her books today so Kris and I took Grannybird. She LOVES Martha as you can tell by the pictures she was chatting it up and had Martha spellbound and speechless. Grannybird told her she has taken her magazine since the first one and has never thrown one away!! Martha told her the first edition ones are worth 400.00 $ and she should sell them on Ebay! It was a treat....

Another Year....

2009-12-08T22:51:00.000-08:00

I really can't believe another year has flown by! I blogged about Darren's last birthday and here is another one.(so I've been blogging for over a year....to bad I haven't been consistent or I could have a book made of the last year...good new year's resolution...)
Darren you are a joy. I love you SO much, you will not understand until you are a father one day the kind of love that comes with being a parent. Thank you for so many things you do right. You are loyal and loving and sensitive. We have watched your testimony grow this past year and look forward to watching it increase even greater this following year. Thanks for being a great son, brother, uncle, and friend. Keep up the good work, you are loved...Happy Birthday!!!! xoxoxox

Miracles...

2009-10-23T17:51:00.000-07:00

While I was doing that last post...this is what Kate was doing! Daniel, Britt came upstairs and we were talking and in came Kate, ohhhhh where did you paint your toes?? In Mimi's room...Brittney and I walked downstairs slowly, I'm thinking new carpet....but it is a miracle, not one drop on my bathroom carpet....she is amazing. I think its time to child proof the house:)

Empty Nester??/Overflowing Nester...

2009-10-23T16:50:00.000-07:00

Now that Ron and I are officially 'empty nesters' something has come over me and I am making up for time I didn't have before. Ron has told me no more classes!! These are some of the fun things I've been stretching my brain around...http://thejuliejanepapercompany.blogspot.com/

*A Photoshop class, once a week for ten weeks...it has been great! Julie is an awesome teacher and I don't have to call Brittney as much..."Britt, how do you...???"

*Bernina sewing machine class...at http://www.quiltique.com/...dangerous store...I have a few projects going...

* Just one baking class, two cute sisters Brittney knows that give them. Daniel said to me, Mom its a really fast class, I don't know if you'll be able to keep up...well I may be an 'empty nester' but I held my own!! This is where you can sign up! http://twobakingsisters.blogspot.com/ This is a scary picture...(I can't believe I'm putting this on my blog, ) but focus on the pizza...barbecue chicken, it turned out really good....but I'm thinking papa john's no mess, no time...seems like what a real 'empty nester' would do!

*Genealogy...I wish I could have a private tutor...I've had a few late nighters with this one. I am not a patient learner, in my world seriously just plug into a USB cord,( I think your belly button would work perfect) and push Download!! Can you imagine...but no pain no gain I guess. The reward wouldn't be as sweet if it was that easy. I really have found some names on Ron's moms lines and it is truly rewarding. She is the only member and there is SO much to do. It is

an amazing feeling, I am so excited to be in the temple doing these family names.

*So now that I'm an 'empty nester' I guess the next thing I must attempt is to twitter or tweet?

Mimi's babysitting....

2009-09-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

Help, how did we do this?? We were much younger and could move faster number one!!! Kate is so much fun to watch, she really does not stop. It takes me back to the early days when my kids LoVEd to go to Grannybird's. She always had time for them, they have great memories of the time spent with Gramps and Grannybird. I'm really grateful for their examples....big shoes to fill...help I need some lessons...Grama Linda...

Summertime....

2009-08-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

This little bum has turned into NEMO!! She loves her orange goggles. She loves to get on a noodle, preferably pink, and swim all around the pool...it is scarey, thank goodness for

Uncle 'DA'!! P.S...I think we're going to miss him!

Ok, I give in...

2009-08-09T02:05:00.000-07:00

I have layed here for a few hours trying to sleep but it will not come. I read Linda's last post this afternoon and have not stopped thinking about Amber. This is the third time that I have strongly felt like we need to have a fast for Amber. I even talked to some people about the idea month's ago and asked what they thought, Kathie that is personal for the Schlauder's, so ok but tonight I'm thinking about the books I've just finished per Keri's recommendation, Sarah's Quilt and These are My Words and the strongest message I got from these books was how these people could have Never made it by themselves. They made it because their family and friends, neighbors provided for each other in every way, emotionally, spiritually, physically. They ralled together in times of trials. We need to learn from those pioneers. I want to help Amber and I know so many people do. Can we set a date to have a fast for her? I know I can't do alot but I can add my prayer and go to the Lord fasting and specifically ask what Pres. Schlauder and Linda would have us pray for, for Amber maybe that just simply she will feel the Saviors Love for her. Can we also have a fast for Adam Bergquist? I don't know if this is the right place to put this out there...I'll remove it immediately Linda if its not but what does everyone feel about it? Maybe we could even have a break the fast and have Amber come. We stopped at Cove Fort on our way home Sunday and there were some missionary couples doing dutch oven and I asked do you eat together every Sunday and she said no just Fast Sunday. Some of the men went fishing and we have a turkey cooking in the ground, so we're having our Break the Fast...I thought just college kids did that.

Oh Canada!!

2009-08-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

My mom was born in a very small town in Canada. She was the only child out of eight that made their way to the good old'e USA. My dad served his mission in Canada and the story is that she chased him home (my dad's version). As kids we vacationed almost every summer in Waterton Lakes, the International Peace Park, still to this very day as we make the turn and round a few corners and spy the famous Prince of Wales Hotel a flood of feelings, all good, overwhelm me. Those of my family, my pioneer heritage, the beauties the Lord created for us, the safety I feel in this small little spot. As kids we roamed freely, mingled with our Canadian cousins, spent our time in a modest cabin, one bathroom for 30 to 40 people and loved every minute of it. Even the longgg drive to get there is part of the journey and cherished memories. The year I was 16 and helped drive I was into antiques, we stopped in Butte and my dad patiently drove to store after store and after an all day treasure hunt, we found a dresser and strapped it to the top of the car. He joked saying it would help me to drive slower but we only drove one hour that day Butte to Dillion and to this day that means so much to me because it reminds me how much my Dad loved me! Oh Canada...P.S. You should all go sometime! You should go with Kris she always meets the nicest people!

Thanks:)

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

So many great things have happened the past couple of months. I feel so blessed to have such a great loving, supportive family and so many loving supportive friends. A picture is worth a thousand words....so I'll let the pictures be my words and express my love and thanks:)

Puerto Rico....

2009-03-05T09:12:00.000-08:00

A revolving door trip...you make one loop around and you are spit out back home. We were only in Puerto Rico for TWO days...we must go back(we didn't even see Jorge or Tateanna!) It took us Two days of travel, crazy, not thinking...Ron was invited to go with one of his company's Travelers Insurance...we should have extended!

Sitting in the plane waiting to take off I glanced over and saw this American jet...it just hit me I am proud to be an American. We are going through a lot right now but what if our country was united and had just a little of the patriotism it took to build this great country, if we pulled and worked together. Do you wonder what if Mitt had won?
We stayed in a great place, met some crazy people, went kayaking, snorkeling, read a book, had a great spa afternoon. I was so excited snorkeling. Ron found this huge seashell so I'm carrying it all around with me thinking this is amazing...how can I smuggle this home?? (I love seahells!) I get out of the water and within minutes this creature comes crawling out while I'm holding it. I'm screaming, Ron returns it to its home. Walking back down the beach we found all kinds of shells and I asked the guide(Puerto Rican teenager) can I take this shell home. Sure, no problem. So I have a treasure! We got to fly first class for one of the legs and that was bad cause now when you're back with the crowd, you know what is going on behind that curtain and you want to be there as you sit there and they are charging $4.00 for a bag of nuts!

2009-03-05T09:08:00.000-08:00

This was by our room... was I suppose to be inspired by it??? I could not quite grasp the artist concept I do love art, maybe it was me!!

2009-03-05T08:50:00.000-08:00

The hotel was very spread out. It had its own private island, lower section you took a little tram to...I know I didn't see half of it because we were only there two days!! We traveled two days to get there...bad, bad planning. I should have consulted Janae!

The Family is Growing...

2009-02-17T11:43:00.001-08:00

The family is growing Camilla and Tanner Wells are officially engaged...yeah we are so excited!! Tanner is an amazing young man and fits into our family so perfect. We all love you Tanner and are so excited. His dad is Julie Bartletts dads cousin...small world.

Daniel & Brittney are expecting number 2. We are really excited for that, nothing better than being 'mimi' and 'papa'...We are Blessed!

A Plan...

2009-02-17T11:00:00.000-08:00

Isn't this amazing?? I think Heavenly Father is a true romantic...how fun would it be to create your own world?? It is so fun to visit every ones blogs and see their personalities come through; can you imagine visiting their worlds? As you can see my mind is everywhere today...we got back from Brian Head last night(had a GREAT Valentines)...Cami is officially engaged! We are so excited for her and Tanner...June 20th. They want to have the reception in our backyard....HELP I NEED A PLAN!!!

I will admit planning is one of my weaknesses. My mind will not quiet today...should I just rent a POD and empty my house and start over? Maybe I should really call CLEAN SWEEP or Natalie Garrett?

Right now I am just so thankful that Heavenly Father has a Plan. He loves us all so much and takes such good care of every one of us...sometimes we get weak and can't see the Plan and we become sad and fearful thinking this can't be the Plan... but then if we do just one small tiny thing like read your scriptures the spirit just pours over you and whispers to your heart...this is the Plan and it gives you strength to continue....

P.S...I loved King Keiths last post, I'm IN...since this is LOVE month one of my favorite sayings is... "The Love in Your Heart wasn't put their to stay...LOVE isn't LOVE til you give it away"....

My Baby Bear is 18!!!

2008-12-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

I really can't believe Darren can seriously be 18...(I don't feel that old!) What a great last child Darren has been. The cutest little boy...I still can see him in the Primary Program when he was a sunbeam, we were at the back of the chapel and when he finally spotted us, he started waving and yelled at the top of his lungs "Hi Mom" Don Ahern cracked up at him and kept telling me, "he should be in the movies". He has a very tender heart that surfaced at a young age...Chris Figgins was teasing him about bringing him some treats so one Saturday morning when we had donuts, Darren went over to the Figgins without us knowing and rang the doorbell (early Sat. morning) no answer so he left Chris a donut hanging it on their doorbell. When he went to middleschool and started band with Mr. Matta, his friends thought he should play the tuba because he could fit in the case! It was tough riding the bus with that tuba...so one day he comes downstairs with his tuba case with wheels on the bottom. He had taken the wheels off his desk and got the drill gun and put them on the school tuba case! I have always loved his bright, ingenious mind...its always at work. My older kids think I have spoiled Bear which I have what can I say. He is an amazing young man, loyal, extremely non judgemental, he always fights for the underdog. He has always had friends from all ages and all walks of life. He will be a great missionary because of his unconditional love for people. He has had alot of great leaders in his life that have seen the best in him, thanks Bro. Hodson and Casey, Bishop, Bro. Wilcox, Sis. Schlauder, Janae, Lucy, Wendi and others. I know I shouldn't name names but as I'm sitting here and the tears are flowing and I am feeling very grateful for all the help in raising this young man...it does take a village and I am grateful for the village we live in...Darren I hope you know how much you are loved! You have so many gifts, we love to be with you, you add so much to our family...HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Sail away....

2008-11-17T14:42:00.000-08:00

I started this post and got sidetracked...but we did sail away and went on a Book of Mormon cruise. It is so amazing to see these ruins...I feel like a dry sponge, right now I want to be dropped into a bucket of water and completely soak in every drop. I'm so excited to read the Book of Mormon with new eyes...I know it will take me longer but I think that will be a good thing! Here are a few pictures, we also went to a butterfly conservatory in Key West. In Canada I don't know how many hours I have chased butterflies around trying to get a close up good shot...it was really easy here...they landed on you. When I walked into the atrium, I'm sure my heart rate rose rapidly. They were flying all around you. You had too watch where you stepped, all kinds of little creatures! You couldn't scream because it was a quiet, serene environment...I'm sure they would have kicked me out!

Tagged.

2008-10-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile...a little crazy around here...I really want to do a post about my father-in-law, maybe Sunday, for tonight I'll answer my 8 for 8 tag from that original, talented lady...Janazee...

8 TV Shows I Like to Watch:

Criminal Minds

Bones

CSI NY

Extreme House Makeover

The Unit

Tennis Opens

Oprah

The Mentalist(new)

8 Restaurants I like to eat at:

Cafe Rio

Cheesecake

Carrabas

Sammy's

Gurus(in provo)

Quizno's

PF Changs

Luv it's

8 Things that happened today:

BONANZA BEAT PALO VERDE IN TENNIS REGIONALS!!!

Lucy Whiting jumped higher than Craig!

Lost my voice...

talked on the phone,finding addresses

Mailed all of Rachel's & Dustin's invitations!!

Did a Sudoku fast

Learned how to mail merge excel list into word and print

odd size envelopes..almost...thanks daniel!!

Hugged Ron, Rachel, my Mom, Bear

8 Things I am Looking Forward too:

Rachel's shower(thanks Laurie)

The Wedding Nov. 1st

Book of Mormon Trip after

Making Rachel's room into my office

Getting in better shape

Going to the Temple tomorrow

The Primary Program

Getting my Washer part here...

8 Things on My Wish List:

Lose 10 pounds by wedding..

Go to yoga 8 days a week

I would remember things better

Take our Family on a great trip for Christmas

Darren would play at state

Friends & Family would really know how grateful I am for them and all they do for me and my family

More time in a day

8 hours of sleep at night!!

8 People to tag:

Kris

Carol

Tammy

Brittney D.

Brittany B.

Cami

Rachel/Dustin

Jenni W.

Braintype??

2008-09-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Yeah...I got to play tennis today what a beautiful day it was!!! We talked about Brain types...this was a fun test to take and see why we do what we do(wish it was that easy...) Which Brain Type are you? Check it out...http://www.braintypes.com/ I was FCAL/ENFJ "Educator"

Testosterone.

2008-09-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

This top picture was from last Christmas and these guys were checking out Google Earth. We couldn't break them free. Guys are different than us girls, thank goodness, but we've been spending a lot more time together this Dye bunch and I have grown to appreciate all these men. I am so thankful for the Priesthood Power available to us here on earth. I am thankful for Grandpa Dye's example of how to be a great husband and father. He is just beaming here with his four sons. We tried so hard to get him to take a trip with just his sons and we would take care of Grandma but he would not leave her. I kinda always thought he probably thinks we can't handle it but now I know he just didn't want to spend one minute away from her. Last night was Ron's night with his parents and I am so thankful he is such a wonderful son and is there for his parents but these days I hate spending one minute away from him.

Talent.

2008-09-08T18:28:00.001-07:00

Can you believe this darling little girl?? And this darling little sweater and hat?? Jan made this for me awhile ago with a matching blanket and booties. Really still to this day I can't believe she did that!! I would never have the patience that it would take to finish a project like this or the talent. I was overwhelmed that someone would give a gift that took so much time to make to me. It touched my heart and made me feel very loved; its also made me think alittle more about the gifts I give, how they make others feel, what they say....its been really hard cause I can't think of just giving it to one of my grandaughters...Jan just laughs and thinks that is so silly but it is truly a treasure and was a gift from the heart...thank you Jan for sharing your many gifts. I just can't believe Kate is growing up so fast!

Playtime...

2008-08-29T23:00:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of my week!! This little cutie is growing up way too fast. She is so independent and wants to climb on the rocks all by herself. It is so fun being a grandma...you definetly have a different perspective. I could just watch Kate all day; try to figure out all the little details...whats this on my finger? whats this hole here, maybe the hose goes inside it. I would love to read her mind. She played with the hose so long and just laughed and laughed. It felt great to just slow down and Play...no wonder kids just wanna have fun...we need to learn from them and have play time!!!!

Whew....

2008-08-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness for the people in our 'inner circle' who know just what we need and just when we need it!!! Brittney came down the night before Cami left to go back to Provo and said they were going to see Mama Mia, just the girls Rach, Cami and her and they wanted me to go. "No its ok, I really don't want to go...I just need to go to yoga...you girls go and you'll have way more fun! I'll just be a party poop.... you can talk about wedding night things (for Rach!)" No" Britt said," come on you need to go...so after 15 min. of talking she got me in the car we're driving in to Red Rock and Brittney turns the wrong way...I'm like I think you park on the other side...Britt, no theres a short cut through the spa...I'm like are we going to the spa???? YES we are going to the spa!!! It was great, Cami has a picture but I feel SO blessed to have all these sweet women in my family, my inner circle...I love them all so much and what I really love is that they love each other so much. P.S...Thanks sweetie for making that possible...now its the boys turn(not the spa maybe hunting trip??)

grateful.

2008-08-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful for this sweet example in my life. On July 28th they have been married 63 years. Maynard has been amazing to watch as he has faithfully cared for Grandma the past several years. Right now they don't even want to be in different rooms. It is so tender, I feel so blessed to be around them and be taught by their example....I am so grateful...I love you both so much! xoxo

Rachy....

2008-07-28T12:41:00.000-07:00

It was Rach's birthday June 19...I am really late in this post to her! Rachel you are amazing. You really should be the mom. I learn so much from you. I still am working on patience...Rachel has the most patience of anyone I know. I have told this story so much about her but to this day when I think about it I still can't believe it. She was in elementary school and I was suppose to pick her up but I felt sick so I called Ron at work, he said he'd run and get her. It was awhile and they still weren't home I thought he must have taken her to get an icee or something(this was before cell phones!) So it s really getting late, I called work and Ron's still there. So I race out the door and drive up to the school and here is Rach sitting on the curb, everyone gone home and I said Rach why didn 't you go in the office and call? she said I knew someone would be here to get me. It had been over an hour. If that would have been Cami or me 5 min. max then into the office.. call 911. She is still the one in our family that remains calm and wise. She has the biggest heart, gives very thoughtful gifts, never talks bad about anyone or to anyone. She has always honored her parents. She is a great sister who is easy to talk to and is always caring. She has so many talents and gifts that Heavenly Father has blessed her with. I love being around her. She is artistic, has great taste (she is going shopping for me soon) and is currently the manager at Bare Essential in Nordstrom(stop by and wish her a belated Happy Birthday!) Rachel you are a great spirit, what a lucky mom I am...keep teaching me I know it takes alot of patience! We ALL love you xoxoxox P.S. Darren wanted me to say he knows he's the favorite brother and he loves you!

Grace for the trials....

2008-07-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

I've been reading from adailyscoop.blogspot.com for the past several weeks. It has been inspiring and uplifting for me....years ago I went through a trial not very gracefully and since that experience my prayer to the Lord has been 'please let me pass through my trials gracefully'. This sweet mother is doing that and has touched many lives by her example. She comes from pioneer heritage so a little tribute to Stephanie, a picture from Cove Fort and this perfect quote I found...."God has not promised skies always blue, flower-strewn pathways all our lives through; God has not promised sun without rain, joy without sorrow, peace without pain. But God has promised strength for the day, rest for the labor, light for the way. Grace for the trials, light for the way, unfailing sympathy, undying love." -Kristone... Thank you for helping us all to remain focused on 'partaking of the fruit' and having our hand firmly planted on the iron rod....

Summer.....

2008-07-08T15:45:00.000-07:00

Summer goes by so fast! Here is a quick catch up...Rach's Birthday, June 19 and then we headed up to Provo to stay with my sister Carol for Stadium of Fire for the fourth. I love to be in Provo for this holiday. We went to the parade in the morning and then to the fireworks, Hanna Montana, Blue Man...it was great. I think my favorite part is at the beginning when the planes fly low over the stadium, it is so loud! You just can't help but feel proud to be an American. We had a wonderful time with my sister and her family they always have their door open and treat us so well. Then on the way home we stopped by Cove Fort. I've tried more than once to get my family to stop but we are always in too big of a rush. Brittney had never been there and Kate needed to stop and stretch. The minute we stepped from the car we were greeted by a very sweet brother such a great missionary. You could feel the sweet spirit immediately, the huge trees, green grass and this home of Ira Hinckley family. They moved it from Coalville when they rededicated Cove Fort. Thirteen people slept in this little room! We are so spoiled...I loved the hardware on the front door, no doubt this home was filled with love!

Then we toured the fort and this was a picture from behind by the pond, if you look in the background you can see where the brown starts this is where the fire last year stopped. I had heard about it but until I was standing there really seeing how close that fire was I had no idea. I was just struck with how much Heavenly Father loves us and watches over us. I was so, so thankful we stopped. If you are driving up north....take a minute its only 1 mile off the freeway and you will be so glad you did!

Playing Tag.....

2008-07-01T23:32:00.000-07:00

My cute little niece(Britty) started her own 'name the top five things no one knows about you' blog tag game and I was the first one she tagged. Brit, I'm honored... I've been sitting here for awhile trying to think of five things and I think everyone knows everything about me!!! Ok, I'm giving this a go, don't laugh...

1. I do not like men with facial hair..we went to this seminar years ago and they said men with facial hair especially around the mouth area means they are hiding something, so to this day when I see a moustache or those little go tees I immediately think...hmmm.. What's he hiding? (I know so dumb!)

2. I don't like the word try, you either do it or you don't.

3. The first time I went to IKEA I felt like I was on a Disneyland ride..I get so excited, my heart actually beats faster. I love, love, love paint chips, fabrics, accessories, it is still crazy to me how my mind goes into overdrive when I see great design...you should go check out my sisters neighbors house WOW

4. I really want to take an art class. I did in college and I think deep down inside me is a famous artist just waiting to escape....ps.dye dreaming...

5. When I'm on the tennis court in my mind I'm twenty...no wonder my right knee is the only limb that hasn't been scoped!

6. I'm not very good with my english grammar (ask Daniel) I'm working on not saying 'alls' right now

Ok thats six..I like to make my own rules!

I'm going to tag my sisters Kris(time to start your blog!) and Grammie(get posting girl!), Cami(time for a new post!!) Karly, Amy, Tammy and everyone else...

K Britt thank you for now helping me to take my mind off my shoulder for awhile, love you!

Aging....

2008-06-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

What can I say??? I am alive, that is a good thing and I will read my little positive saying write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year...and I will be positive and grateful for the day. This shoulder surgery has not been fun and I am sorry I have been grumpy but it is getting better. I am motivated to rethink my habits...the physical therapist said now that you are 50!!!! !!!!...you can't just go out play tennis, go play the next day...you have to start to train and maintain, I'm looking at him like thank you very much for that information trying to smile, biting my lip, drawing blood...it has been a great reality check. I joined bikrams yoga yeh so here we go...

weekend Inspiration....

2008-06-10T11:52:00.001-07:00

Life As Baby of the Family...

2008-05-28T07:22:00.001-07:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

Weekend Inspiration....

2008-05-23T16:40:00.001-07:00

So here is where it's coming out...this is one of my many nature photos, my family laughs when we vacation...Kris says people Kathie, people pictures as I am over in the bushes somewhere...I love the saying!

All ya need is LOVE....

2008-05-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

This is what I got for Mothers Day. Ron and I went tonight and it is incredible. I can't even comprehend who imagines and creates and makes it happen...how is it done? Wow, I am inspired, my creative juices are flowing and where they'll spill over, who knows!!! Thank you to all my family, that was a great gift...I enjoyed, it took me back to when I was crazy about Ringo, made me giggle, made me sing out loud,(is that why we only had 2 tickets?? extra thanks Ronnie for always stickin by my side, no matter what!)made me think could I get that in shape...just dye dreaming....

Camilla is 21!!!!

2008-05-21T23:51:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? I can't... Cami turned 21 (so did Sonya...same B-day!) on May 16th. I wanted to do a great tribute to Miss Millie because she is deserving of a great tribute. What an amazing young lady, she has so many talents, where do I start. So many things I love about her; she doesn't have a hard time choosing right, she doesn't question it, no debate, no gray....just white...just right. Tremendous moral compass, tender heart, generous heart, loves kids, compassionate, serves other, gets the job done, fiercely loyal. She loves the Savior and shows it daily by her actions. My favorite thing to do these days is sneak into Costco when we go to Provo and watch Cami in action in the optical department. She helps alot of elderly people and she is so kind and patience with them. She has some regulars that come and visit with her. Once Rach, Cami and I got out of the car in the Costco parking lot and Rach and I got out the same side and started walking but no Cami...we turned around and she was chatting with an older lady that had locked her keys in the car... Cami was helping her decide what she should do, comforting her because she was upset...she is following in her Grannybirds shoes!! I love you so much Camilla Lynn

Most of my pictures are on my old computer so these are what I found on my Iphoto....I think I will title them Self Portrait

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Love you Cam!

We made it!!!

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Brinley was absolutely taken by Jenica all day long...she was so darling to watch!!

2008-05-13T23:57:00.000-07:00

Zach-man is next and he was practicing his wedding smile for me!

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A bright smile in the midst of choas...

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Smile...

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one of darrens favorite cousins...

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GB's sister was there.

Just refer to Britt's blog!!!

2008-05-13T22:40:00.000-07:00

I am just amazed at all Brittney gets done...that girl is fast. When I do a new post it takes me forever...first I go into Iphoto to see if I have anything interesting to share,( mmm I always get a little sidetracked with the endless editing you can do....WOW) Checkout Britt's wedding photos from this past weekend. You should see the pictures I took of the wedding weekend. You would say were you at the same wedding?? You would all pee your pants laughing and that is why I am just going to start saying just check out Brittneys blog!!

Especially her tribute to Mother's..the tears were rolling...I am the LUCKIEST mother-in-law..you are amazing, I love you so much Sister Dye...

P.S...I knew Jason Castro wasn't going to win...for weeks Ron would say for SURE he is getting kicked off this week and I would say all the girls love him and he will be back sure enough another week and he was still there, so that was a little tribute to ronny boy!

It's a Small World in the Blogging World!!

2008-05-01T22:50:00.000-07:00

I think it must have been the black background (at least this week, might be back next week) that kept me from posting! Can you tell I like change...mmmm...I've been eyeing the paint swatches watch out Ron, sorry hon...I am trying to stay focused on the garage, organizing...but spring has sprung and its time for some new colors!

I feel like I am in pre-school with learning all there is to learn about technology (basically anything that plugs into the wall)...I haven't been reading the comments under my posts duh..but today I did and was so excited to hear from Melody Bastian that used to be in our ward. She found my blog through my cute niece Kerry Hogle who Melody grew up with her husband! This is the positive about the blogging thing, staying connected. ( and we have seen a bit of the negative of the blogging world this week, would you agree Dustin?) What a darling, darling family Melody! Any of you Canyon Gate bloggers I posted her blog link (is that worded correctly?) so check it out. How fun to share your world. Here are a few of my favorite photos for the week or maybe month...we had two 84 year young birthday parties, my mom and ron's dad...the most amazing examples, that is a whole separate post. Cute Kate....of all the Easter pictures this one is my favorite...I can just hear her saying "What the heck, get this thing off my new dress!" And thank you to my sweetie who is trying to keep me up to speed and spoils me rotten on a daily bases...I admit...I am spoiled! P.S. ...thank you Bear for my chic cover...you have great taste and a big heart...I am soooooo lucky!

2008-05-01T22:24:00.001-07:00

blogging takes alot of time!

2008-04-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

I am learning alot about myself as I am starting to be a blogger and a blog stalker! It takes alot of time...I am easily distracted...I feel like I have been on a journey through every corner of cyber space and I think I am leaving no stone unturned! I do not comprehend time management...my brain hurts! So today I had some self discipline and cleaned my laundry room. I would post a picture but oooo..I am not quite there yet because my after picture would look like Susans before picture. I was really impressed when she posted her closet pictures, you really did motivate me susan thanks! So here is a peek at my closet...(dye dreaming!)

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Photo of the Week...

2008-04-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

...my life has been richly blessed and shaped by the people I am surrounded by. I love their smiles, their encouraging words, their tender, watchful care, the great teachers they are...I am a lucky girl to be right where I am, Las Vegas, Nevada, daughter of Jan and Ernie, daughter in law to Helene and Maynard, sister to Marcos, Krissy, Richy boy, Carol lotta loo, wife to Ronnie, mother of Daniel and Britt, Rach, Milly, Bear, Grandma to Katesy girl, sister in law to Linda, Lloyd, Angie, Walt, Doug & Kathy, Rick and Teri, Dave and Jane, aunt to so many cuties, member of Canyon Gate Ward, friend to some wonderful, amazing people, sister of Jesus Christ, daughter of Heavenly Father...how can I say thank you??

blogging.

2008-04-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

OK...here we go...after reading tutorials...buying digital designs...bugging Brittany...trying to figure it ALL out here is my first post. During the process I thought in my world we will each come with a built in usb port maybe behind the ear maybe in the ear, the nose, belly-button(are you visualizing yet) and you would be able to just download everything and have instant knowledge. Sometimes this joy in the journey can be a long journey, just get me there. So you can see this is why I have hesitated having a blog because I am sure I will say way too much and give you a little insight into how my brain works...the right side is overly active and the left side has atrophied to almost nothing. I have purchased a brain games book and am working in it daily!

Daniel has also assured me that this is like my journal that there is a company I can send all my 2008 entries to and have a book made. So I guess I will give it a try and see what happens. I t is so fun to see pictures and see the changes with my family and friends. I think it will be great because it will get me taking pictures, reading more tutorials(more knowledge), becoming more informed on so many things...(new shopping spots, recipes for dinner(in case Ron is reading this!!) and I could go on and on but Kate is here ready for Gradma to watch!