Another Christmas Eve at Grandmas House

As usual Christmas Eve brought us together, but this year it was even more special because Jason, Taya and Corbon were here. Now if we could nonly have put Jared, Liz, and families on Santas sleigh and brought them here it would have been complete. Just a few pictures to tell the story.

Merry Christmas everyone...It seems like it was only yesterday we were sending greetings to our loved ones and friends. I love reflecting on the fond memories I have of everyone and the influence for good you have been in my life. The year 2008 has been a replay of many past years; filled with many blessings, a few challenges, some disappointments, joy and love - I am grateful for all of them.

As I contemplate the real menaing of this season, my thought turn to the Savior and His sacrifice for each of us. I am so grateful for His atonement and what that means in our lives. When we see the turmoil around the world and the numerous disasters in this country and abroad, it is so comforting to know that we will never be left without the Comforter. I am so grateful for each of you, my family and freinds, and wish you peace and joy this Christmas and the New Year.

I've decided to rename KC, just for the winter. His new name will be Snowball. Bert took him walking today and this is how he returned. Katie had posted this picture of Garrett after he opened a box of Christmas gifts...They sorta match...

Trying to keep up!

Old dog trying to keep up with a pup is a tongue hanging!

Oh my goodness! What a fun time we had when Ben and Becky came over to learn how to make Peanut Butter Fudge rolls. They finished cooking it, poured it on the slab, waited for it to cool and began to mix it. I told them to keep checking the spatula to make sure it did not set up to quickly, cautioning them that it might need some cream added as they were mixing it. I went downstairs to get something and heard such a commotion coming from the kitchen. It took a considerable amount of time to get it mixed back to a smooth consistency. Needless to say the pictures will explain what happened: You might notice the neat looking roll was made by Becky, the other one was created by Ben who just received HIGHEST HONORS at Weber High. Way to go BEN!But in the end it all tasted the same....Good

WISHING YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

Did you enjoy putting up all the lights and decorations? I did, but it would have been alot more fun if this little master decorater had been here to help. Just couldn't resist sending these pictures from Jared and Katies blog along with Merry Christmas wishes to all of you. This is a labor of love this morning because I think I sprained my wrist last night. The YW activity was here and we had just finished making chocolates, now that is a deal breaker in my small kitchen. Of course someone had the great idea that we take a picture downstairs by the Christmas Tree and this funny old lady took a not so graceful, very hard fall....luckily the hips are still in place, if a tad black and blue, but oh the hand ..... Obviously it takes much longer to type with just one hand. It was worth it...we had a great time.

"Giving, not getting, brings to full bloom the Christmas spirit. Enemies are forgiven, friends remembered and God obeyed. The spirit of Christmas illuminates the picture window of the soul, and we look out upon the world's busy life and become more interested in people than things. To catch the real meaning of the "spirit of Christmas," we need only drop the last syllable, and it becomes the "Spirit of Christ." (President David O. Mc.Kay) Have a joy filled Christmas.

Thanksgiving 2008. I wish I could put my thoughts into words like Katie does, but since I cannot I hope you will read their site, "Get Your Fill of Gill" and know that I echo everything she has put down so beautifully. We had such an enjoyable day at Mike and Bonnie's home. It is such a blessing to be together on this special holiday. Cliff had to work, Richard, Bonnie and Ben were in St. George celebrating with Bonnie Taylors family.

It is now time to put up the lights and decorate the tree as we all welcome in the Christmas Season.

DID YOU FIGURE IT OUT???

Yep, you are right, you have to read my posts with an open mind... I still cannot figure out how the top becomes the bottom and the bottom becomes the top - but at least I am continuing to try. Rome wasn't built in a day........

Ok, It worked, I am so impressed. The first picture was taken at the Luxor Temple and the second one needs no explanation. Now for the Jerusalem pictures. Dome of the Rock, and where the soldiers gambled for Christ's cloak. We are looking forward to hearing all about their exciting vacation when we gather at their home for Thanksgiving. It would be great if the whole family could be together for that day. We have so much to be thankful for and I wish all of you everywhere a very happy day. Eat lots, repent later if necessary.

If I am lucky there will be one more picture of Bert included here. He has been recovering from an operation to remove rocks and a toy from his stomach. What a delightful dog, he is a bundle of $$$$ going out the window each and every day.

Uncle Jay has been in the hospital due to another stroke. Thankfully this one was a small one and he is home now. He is still seeing double, taking his medications and trying to behave. A week before, Susie had arranged a big party for his 80th birthday. He was so happy to have his family all come at different times so he could get a chance to visit with them.

Life is very busy, or I am getting a lot slower, the days seem to have fewer hours in than they used to. I am trying to get used to being in Young Women again. It has been over 20 years since I last taught the Laurels. I tried to counsel the bishop, but he remained set in his decision. I had forgotten how many extra activities went along with the calling, but I am catching on fast.

So much for now I must watch "Dancing With The Stars" Be Happy

You might think it has been a long time since I wrote on my blog...but you would be wrong. I have written a couple of times and when I go to put in a picture somehow it cancels everything out so I just give up, but I am going to try again. Thought I would include a couple of pictures of Mike and Bonnie on their amazing trip to Israel and Egypt. Bonnie said she would like to go back and for someone who does not like to fly that is saying alot. So here you go.

I FORGOT THE CAKE PICTURE

LOOK WHO TURNED ONE YEAR OLD

Check out the cutest ONE year old around. We had such a great time at his birthday party. I don't think he had the slightest idea that the day was planned around him. His favorite present was a cute book, a few of the boxes and of course the cake. Wow, Taya that was so cute. Thanks for a great time. Sorry we missed the trip to the Zoo, but Canine Country Club was calling Vickie to come home.

I'VE BEEN ADOPTED!

It is great to have Marian, Jakob and Zack back for a little while. Germany is so far away. John returned from Iraq this week and if all goes well he will be able to spend a few months with his family. Jakob wanted to have a grandma to go visit and I am the lucky one he decided to adopt. Zack just sorta came along for the ride, but Jakob climbed right up on my lap and called me his grandma. What darling little boys. Jakob and I need a few hours all to ourselves to get this grandma, grandson off to a good start. You will definitely be hearing more about him.

WELL DONE THOU GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT

Mike was released from the Bishopric today. He has served for six and a half years. I know the Lord is pleased with the way Mike fulfilled his calling. Bonnie has been at his side, supporting and encouraging him every step of the way. My heart is full of gratitude for a son who loves his family and honors his priesthood. Even tho this blog is my journal the rest of my feelings are too tender to put down here, they belong in my Journal of the Heart.

BERT HAS A NEW FRIEND

Yes, that is right...Bert made a new friend while walking at Ft. Buenventura with Vickie. Thought you might like to meet him also.

EVENTFUL DAYS

More fun with Callie and Scott. After a long walk, a visit with Becky, Bonnie, Richard and the goats, lunch at Chili's, a tired but always loving Elizabeth, we returned home for a little R & R.

GOOD NEWS

Vina del Mar Chile, nunca sera igual. Felicidades Elder King. "Llamado al Servicio" Me siento muy feliz por usted. Report to Mission Home January 28, 2009.

WHERE WILL HE BE SENT????

Skyeler has submitted his mission papers, and now we are all anxiously awaiting to hear where the Lord will have him serve

LITTLE BOY AT PLAY

We had such fun with Jason, Taya and Corbon....

Hurry Back!

Forgotten Pictures