We Are Never Lost!

Juliet

2011-12-05T11:43:00.000-08:00

How awesome is it to be a Grandmother? It's the best. I have been able to spend some quality time with my little granddaughter lately, and can I just say...AWESOME! I thought, well since I'm only tending the baby and she sleeps a lot right now, I can keep my eye on her while cleaning, cooking, crocheting, etc etc. I'm here to say, not so! I can't stop staring at her. She is such a miracle. Even feeding her the bottle is such a joy for me. I love how she trys to grab the bottle with her fists. I love how she anticipates every feeding like she's never been fed before. I love how she focuses on my face and gives me that precious heavenly smile. I love how she gives every effort she has to try and communicate with me, through her coos and ahhhs. And I love how she recognizes her mommy's and daddy's voices.

And yesterday, well that was definitely a payday for our family. Our little Juliet was blessed by her Daddy and how great it was to witness all those in attendance, worthy to hold the priesthood. Her Daddy, both Grandpas, uncles, great-uncles, and a friend or two. What great joy to have the priesthood in our family! I am overcome with emotion at the blessings we have received.

And even though there are trials to face and much work to be done, it is comforting to know that in these precious moments in time, we can come together as families and friends, to share in special moments that bring us closer together and closer to our Father in Heaven.

A very long day!

2011-10-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

Starting with early morning, my alarm went off...I think. Well it must have - and I must have turned it off. Maybe that was a dream. Maybe not! Because when I finally pried open my eyes to look at the clock expecting to see 5:45 a.m., I saw 6:39 a.m. Ouch! That's gonna hurt I thought. So I jump out of bed and rush to get ready....literally. As I'm brushing my teeth, my phone rings. It's Charlene and she doesn't sound very good. She's in a lot of pain and needs to go to the hospital. Worrying about her and her baby, I rush to her house. It is now 7:10 a.m. and we head to the hospital. They immediately take her to labor and delivery, where they begin to monitor the baby. The little guy's heartbeat is strong and he's moving a lot, but Charlene is having contractions. Since she is only 7 months, there is a concern as to what exactly is going on. After a few tests, diagnosis is a kidney stone. That's gotta suck to be 7 months pregnant and have to pass a kidney stone. So with a lot of worrying for her and the baby, the morning finally passes into the afternoon. Armed with pain meds and nausea meds, home we go. We stop at the drug store to drop off her prescriptions and head home. After she has settled in, I head to work - finally! I arrive at 2:00 p.m. and yes there is plenty to do.

Digging in I try to catch up on what should have been done this morning, not daring to even glance at the piles from yesterday and the day before. Work - there is so much of it! I think to myself...job security, right? My daughter-in-law calls to tell me that our sweet Juliet had her tongue clipped today and she squealed. Can't say I blame her. But she is doing well...and so is Elisha (her mom). I call my 2nd counselor and reschedule our young women presidency meeting. I decide to stay until about 6:30 p.m. to make up some lost time. As I am leaving the parking lot, my phone rings. Spencer - "Where are you?" I'm just leaving work I reply. I'll be home in about 1/2 hour. As I pull onto West Temple, my phone rings. Andrew - "Mom, where are you?" I'm just leaving work I reply. I'll be home in about 1/2 hour. As I head to I-215, my phone rings. Tricia (sounding upset) - "Mom, I looked everywhere for you and you're not here. I think you're lost. Daddy and Andrew are very worried about you." I'll be home in about 1/2 hour. Well, I guess it's good to be late once in awhile, so that you can find out how much you are needed and appreciated.

Almost home and I remember that I need to pick up Andrew's prescription. I run into the drug store and take care of that, at the cost of $80. Finally home! Then Andrew shows me his phone, which is damaged beyond recognition (don't ask). So off to Verizon we go for his early birthday present. After spending an hour at the store, and satisfied with his new purchase, we head home. But what do you do with a hungry 17 year old? So being as tired as I am, we take off in the direction of Wendy's, where we actually sit inside to eat. I find myself grateful for this because I am able to spend time with Andrew without interruption.

I am finally home and it's 10:00 p.m. Spencer and Tricia are playing their guitars and singing "Rainy Day People"...I love that song. Called to check on Charlene...she's all tucked in and her hubby is home to look after her. Now as I'm updating my blog and trying to type, Andrew and Tricia are taking turns talking, talking, talking. Something about marching band, bugs, favorite teachers, dorky boys, etc. etc. Time to end now and go to bed. Must remember to set my alarm.

Nova Scotia - 2011

2011-07-21T11:56:00.001-07:00

Leaving Salt Lake City!

Tricia is not so sure about this! It's her first time to fly.

See you later Salt Lake - up, up and away!

Arriving in Halifax - yep, I know for sure I'm home now! Fog and rain.
Cathy picked us up at the airport - and then a 4 hour drive to Cape Breton. It's so good to be home. I love my sister, and I'm so glad I had this time with her all to myself. I know it's going to be busy once we get there.

So far - a year of blessings - a lifetime of bliss!

2011-07-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

I remember last Christmas. It was the evening of the 25th, after all the presents were opened, after all the food was eaten, after all phone calls were made to loved ones far away, and after all the visits were made to loved ones nearby, I sat pondering about the day. It was a good Christmas. I have been blessed with countless blessings in my life, so much so that I can hardly contain them all. But I was also feeling a little selfish. Tricia, being our youngest, was 14 years old and so there is no more "childish" feelings about Christmas at my house. So I went into my room, knelt next to my bed, and bowed my head in reverance for the day and what it truly means. As I thanked my Heavenly Father for everything he has given to me and done for me, I humbly sought to ask Him for more. I prayed that I didn't seem ungrateful for everything I had already received. But I quietly asked Him if he could bless our family with a grandbaby, a new family member for us to love and spoil. After all we had twelve months to put this plan in order. And so time goes on!

A great day in February! - We made dinner for grandma and brought it to her house to eat with her because she wasn't feeling too good. Bryant and Elisha showed up with dessert - cupcakes! But they weren't just any cupcakes. These were very special cupcakes. They were pink and blue, and the message read "Happy Valentine's Day from Bryant, Elisha, and the cupcake in the oven"! YES! My prayer has been answered, already! I love my life, and I can't wait to hold my grandbaby, who by the way is a girl! I can't wait to spoil her, and is she ever going to be spoiled!

Everyone, I would like to introduce Ms. Brown, our granddaughter. Isn't she beautiful.

April 20th!
First of all, Tricia was chosen to participate in the Junior High talent show. Only twelve "acts" were picked, so for her it was a big deal. I admit I was very nervous for her...only in the way Moms can understand. She sang a Taylor Swift song, something about happily ever after. And can I just say as a proud Mom - WOW! SHE WAS TOTALLY AWESOME! That's my girl. I couldn't get her actual talent show picture to scan properly, so here she is doing what she loves anyway, in a different talent show. You get the picture!

As I was leaving the school, feeling all proud and such as only Mama Brown can, my cell phone rang. It was Charlene. She was sort of silly/giddy. My heart began to race as I thought what I thought, but then thought I shouldn't think what I'm thinking for disappointment could set in. But she confirmed my thoughts, and announced that the tests worked and she was expecting her first baby.
Everyone, I would also like to introduce Baby Sperry (we don't know yet if we have a Ms. or Mr.) But this one is just as beautiful don't you think.

And finally for a day of overload blessings....there's even more!
I received a very special message on my facebook from a girl named Lauren Jayne Loock. At first I was just going to immediately delete it, since I did not know who she was, and Spencer didn't recognize the name either. But when I went to hit the delete button, something prompted me to stop and open her message to read it. I barely got to the end of the first sentence and my entire body was covered with goosebumps. That's right, I said goosebumps. Could it be! Oh yes, and more. I will save this message forever, and I have put it in my collection of "my most important things". My biological niece Lauren had sent me that message. Now getting word from a niece may not seem like such a special thing, but this particular niece WAS and IS special. She was placed for adoption the day she was born, and although I knew in my heart that this was the best thing for her, it broke my heart to give her away. I was confident in the fact that she was exactly where Heavenly Father wanted her to be, and that was a blessing of peace for me. I felt assured by my Heavenly Father that this baby would be happy, that she would have a good life, that she would have the gospel in her life, and that the family that would raise her would be blessed by our sacrifice. So when she contacted me, it was the day after her 18th birthday, a gift from her parents allowing her to find out who she is and where she came from. Knowing this only re-confirms to me that she is where she's supposed to be. I can't express my joy and my gratitude to Heavenly Father for this special event. And so, we have a more "grown-up" addition to our family to love and spoil. Not to mention, all of the new "relatives" we have inherited along with her. They are truly special people and I am overwhelmed with emotion at getting to know them and having them be a part of our lives. I actually feel like I've met them before and that I've known them my whole life.
Now some may say the power of the internet can bring so much to us today, but I have to disagree on one issue. The power of prayer and the right connection is the ONLY way to bring peace and joy into our lives.

Everyone, I would like to introduce my beautiful niece, Lauren Jayne Loock. Isn't she gorgeous!

I will confess at this time, that pictures "borrowed" from other facebook pages is not exactly stealing! Especially when I need them to brag.

I HAVE BEEN TAGGED!

2011-03-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

Tagged by my daughter in law - I'm not sure I can remember, but I'll give it a try.

Past and future Tag

20 years ago......(Or in the year of 1991)
1: Seems so long ago...we were living in Ledgewood, New Jersey. (I love Jersey).
2: Charlene was 7 and Bryant was 6, and were they EVER CUTE!
3: Spencer did a lot of traveling for the Trisha Brown Dance Company and spent a lot of time in Europe.

10 years ago......(Or in the year of 2001)
1: Back in Utah, living in West Valley.
2: Two additional children have since joined our family, Andrew and Tricia.
3: Charlene graduated from high school.

5 years ago.......(Or in the year of 2006)
1: Working for Ray Quinney & Nebeker.
2: Charlene & Aaron are married.
3: We have decided to sell our house.

3 years ago...... (Or in the year of 2008)
1: Now living in West Jordan.
2: Andrew is in Jr. High and Tricia is in 6th grade.
3: Put a fence around our yard for Sammy.

1 year ago.......(Or in the year of 2010)
1: Bryant & Elisha are married.
2: Spencer is now working for Westminster College and I'm working for Dorsey & Whitney.
3: Went on a 3-day Pioneer Trek with our ward.

This year so far......
1: Called as the Young Women President in our ward.
2: My Mom turned 75 on March 24.
3: Registered Tricia for high school!

Yesterday......
1: Went to the gym at 6:00 a.m.
2: Busy day at work - lots of filing!
3: Went to Relief Society Birthday social.

Today.........
1: Slept in....oh no! Must be working out too much.
2: Went to the gym after work, with the fam and Bryant's inlaws.
3: Went to painting class with the fam.

Tomorrow........
1: Allergy shot.
2: Working at Dorsey.
3: Hopefully an evening of rest.

In the Next Year.......
1: A visit to Nova Scotia is in order, to see my family.
2: Pay off Spencer's Dakota! YES!
3: Lose 30 pounds (I'm already down 7).

New Year's Eve -2010

2010-12-31T21:31:00.000-08:00

Another year has come and gone. It is now 10:30 p.m. and if you know me at all, you'll know that it is way past my bedtime. However, I was going to try and manage to stay up for the big moment. But I'm also quite sure that isn't going to happen. I've been up since 6:00 a.m. and am getting very tired. I'll admit that I'm not a spring chick anymore. More like a winter bear, wanting to hibernate. But before I begin my ritual of snoozing, it is time to wish each and everyone a very Happy New Year. I hope and pray that 2011 will bring you great joy and happiness.

Now for my top 10 Resolutions!
10. Smile at someone every day.
9. Be kinder than I was last year.
8. Keep my house clean.
7. Plant a new tree in the spring.
6. Put a new front door on the house.
5. Practice not having road rage (especially on I-215)
4. Spend more quality time with my hubby.
3. Lose 15 pounds (isn't that what all of us say for a Resolution).
2. Spend more time with my family (although we already do spend a great deal of time together.
1. Get out of debt!

I'll Be Home for Christmas!

2010-12-05T09:13:00.001-08:00

As we go through life, we don't think much about being "home" until of course that time of year, when it's all about being "home". And then there's the music, and the movies, and the memories, and the magic. Well, Christmas is my favorite time of year, and as it is every year, I have a deep longing for home! And what is it exactly. Well it's the memories of course. And it's the dear loved ones that are there continually making those memories year after year. But then you realize they are not all there any more. Some have moved on, like me, and some have passed away. The trick is to keep those memories dear to your heart and pass them down from generation to generation. And hopefully, just hopefully, all those feelings of goodness and joy will come seeping through from generation to generation, passed down from ancestor to ancestor, reaching through time and binding us together forever.

Sentimental? Who me? Why of course! Isn't that my nature. And I wouldn't change that part of me for anything in this world. I am so grateful to my Father in Heaven for giving me that gift in my heart.

And as I'm sitting watching the many Christmas movies, feeling my sentimental self, one line in one of the movies goes something like this "that tree needs some Cape Breton starlight". And second movie I was watching has a line that mentions Nova Scotia. Looks like I'm not the only one out there with back east attachment.

Merry Christmas to all and may God Bless!

Guilt Trips

2010-10-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

What is it about guilt trips? I think we are all "guilty" of them, pardon the pun. But I believe that most of us are not even aware that we use such a tactic to manipulate others to do what we want. For example, recently during an exchange with some loved ones of mine, (12 of them to be exact) a simple question was asked by one. I won't go into detail because I don't want to hash up any hard feelings, and I definitely don't want to start a war or be accused of having favorites. That is not me. But, a simple question was asked, a simple request was made. Then the answers started coming in. All that was needed was a simple answer....yes or no. What is it about us human beings that we just can't accept a simple yes or no? Why do we need to have a "yes I can because (and now you have to hear how wonderful I am because I am saying yes to your question)", or "no I can't because...(and now you have to hear all about how my life is so tragic/busy that I can't help out or do whatever it is that was asked in the first place)". I recently read an article which talked about ownership of our words. If I ask someone to do a favor for me and they say no, I need to accept the fact that they said no and leave it at that. I don't need to probe and over-analyze every thought that comes into my mind about why that person said no. I just need to accept the fact that they said no and move on with my life. It may have nothing to do with me and probably doesn't. The fact that they may be too busy, the fact that they may not want to participate, the fact that they may not want to use their allotment of time to do something that I want, is entirely THEIR choice and it should not upset or anger me in any way whatsoever. But most importantly, it should not reflect their feelings towards me. In other words, just because they say no, doesn't mean they have an ulterior motive and that they don't want to because they don't like me or they don't want to be around me. That is ridiculous. If they say yes, then all is well - right? I get what I want. It's when I don't get what I want, that the world turns upside down and we go into a tailspin.

It is true as we get older, that life takes on different and more difficult challenges. But just because every request can't be fit into everyone's schedules, especially the bigger the circle of friendships and families become, doesn't mean that everyone has a motive to participate or not participate in that request. It is what it is, and shouldn't be taken as a threat against the one making the request, and I hope that the person making the request understands that she is loved no matter what.

Oh how much energy and time we waste in trying to manipulate people into doing what WE want them to do. Instead of just asking, inviting and accepting. I have found that when I invite and ask, pleasantly, there is a much warmer spirit in my home and in my life. I admit it took me a long time to learn and understand this very important principle in human kindness. I ask, I invite, and I receive those who want to partake and we enjoy. For those who do not or cannot, there will be other opportunities and other moments to strengthen and bond family ties and friendships.

The Strangest People are at Walmart

2010-10-20T11:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the McDonald's story reminded me of another time that I had a strange encounter. It was Christmas a few years back (don't you like how I sound all elderly and knowledgeable)and I had to pick up something at Walmart that I just could not find anywhere else. Yes, we've all been there. So I walk into the store and head directly for my destination. I know what I need, I know I only have one hour for lunch, and I know I need to hurry. So I find the coveted object to be purchased and tenderly wrapped to be opened on Christmas morning (I can't even remember for whom or what it was). A man walks directly up to me (I believe he was hispanic or something like that) and looks me right in the eye and says, "You would be one good looking woman if you lost 40 pounds." Well I just stood there with my mouth open and didn't quite know how to respond to that. Oh I could think of lots of things now as I look back on it, but I probably shouldn't post any of them. But my mother's words quickly come to mind..."If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all." I wish I'd said that! Why is it that I seem to attract these kind strangers? Or maybe it's that I bring out the worst/best in people. Sometimes leaving the house for me is like going on an adventure. I just never know...what next!

McDonald's Rage

2010-10-20T11:43:00.000-07:00

This is a weird story. On my way to the bank, I stopped at McDonald's to get a drink. Now this particular McDonald's has two separate drive up lanes, side by side. I'm sure you've all seen them. Anyway, as I pulled up there was a van, followed by a car in the first lane, and the second one was empty. So naturally I pulled into the second one...I mean, who wouldn't right? So I pull up to the speaker just as the van was pulling out of the first lane. The "lady" in the car behind him then pulled up to give her order. However, I was already in the process of saying "one medium coke please". All of a sudden, I heard her screaming at the unsuspecting McDonald's employee, very loudly - "Hey you! I was here before "that" woman over there." I quickly look around and realize of course that she must have been talking about me, because I was the only other person there. So I continue on my merry way, feeling sorry for the employee who would have to deal with her rage. All I could think of was "Give that woman her food!" So I pull up to pay for my drink, and she comes flying up behind me, literally, doing at least 60 miles per hour to go only 10 feet. I thought I was a goner! Now I'm thinking this woman is not only hungry and desperately needs her McDonald's nourishment, but she is nuts! The best thing to do in a situation like this is TAKE OFF EH! So I purchase my drink and head out. I pull out onto Redwood Road and head south, because after all, I still need to hit the bank. About 2 yards before the bank's driveway, this crazy lady comes screaming down Redwood Road and cuts me off and pulls in front of me. She was laughing at me as if to say..."see, now I'm in front of you." And at that exact moment, I quickly turn right and pull into the bank. I turned to look at her and she was gesturing some kind of signal with her finger, I'm not sure what! But I walked into the bank with a smile on my face, and a gratitude in my heart, that I never leave the house hungry, only thirsty.

10 Things That Make Me Happy

2010-10-19T20:13:00.000-07:00

#10 - Clean Sheets
There is nothing I like better than crawling into bed and snuggling into clean crisp sheets. I just lay there and get so excited, that I even get butterflies in my tummy. And I sleep so well on nights like that. Ahhhhh!

#9 - Sunday Drives
We don't do this as much as we used to, but I love love love Sunday drives, especially in the Fall. No TV, no house to clean, no meals to fix, just driving with the family. I find it very relaxing and I love having the opportunity to bond with the fam!

#8 - Rain
I love the rain. I love the feel of the rain on my face (oh I think that's a song), and love the smell of rain, and love the fresh feeling of rain. I love rainstorms, especially back east. They have the best rainstorms...Nova Scotia, Massachusetts and New Jersey!

#7 - Quilting
I love to quilt. I love to make quilts and give them away. It's an artful creation that I enjoy seeing in my mind, then putting together.

#6 - Painting
I have discovered a new love - oil painting. Who would have thought! But I can't get enough. I go to classes once a week and I wish it was 5 times a week.

#5 - Pajamas
One of my favorite things to do when I come home from work, whenever possible, is to climb into my pj's. Total comfort is what life is all about at those moments.

#4 - The Smell of Coconut
I spend a lot of time seeking out lotions and shampoos that smell like coconut. I love that smell, and I breath it in deeply when I use those products.

#3 - Scrapbooking and Pictures
I think these two go hand in hand, because I can't scrapbook without pictures. I take pictures whenever and wherever I go, and I am constantly writing stories in my mind as I am taking pictures.

#2 - MY CAT, TOPAZ!
I love my cat and he loves me. No, really he does! He is so spoiled and practically runs the house.

#1 - Cape Breton Island
My heart is there and always will be. I love my heritage and where I came from. My roots are deep in that island and my heart will forever long for its beauty and serenity.

So to sum things up, I would be at my happiest, cozied up in my pj's, somewhere on Cape Breton Island, painting a picture, while Topaz sits on my lap, and I had a coconut candle burning in the room, while NCIS is on the tv (snuck that one in there...I couldn't resist). Charlene is right, I had a hard time thinking about my favorite 10, but once I got started, I could have kept going and going and going.

2010-09-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

Cape Breton Tear Jerker

2010-04-24T20:42:00.000-07:00

My friend Myrna said to me on facebook, "go to my blog and see some pictures of Cape Breton and that will really make you cry for home." So I did. I watched this video and, yes I did cry, and want to get into the car and drive straight to where my heart lives. So what could I do but to snag it from her blog and put it on my blog also. Now I can watch it and cry everyday. What is it about Cape Breton Island? Once it gets into your heart and under your skin, it's there forever! And every time I drive home, it doesn't matter what part of Cape Breton Island I am on, it is HOME! As soon as I see the Causeway, I am HOME! There is a deep, strong heritage there and definitely a Welcome Mat for all. I absolutely love who I am and where I came from. I thank my Heavenly Father for giving me such a special and permanent ground for my heritage and who I am. I've often heard that "pictures don't do a place justice" but...what can I say. Cape Breton is not just a place, it's a state of mind, an inner peace. Maybe you have to be a Cape Bretoner to get it. This video is true to the core. I LOVE CAPE BRETON!

Bryant Turns 25 - February 24, 2010

2010-02-27T07:37:00.001-08:00

A cake for Bryant and what else would it be....the Boston Red Sox. Made by his sweet wife Elisha, but Bryant says he made the "B".

Elisha's niece...her ONLY interest was the cat!

Bryant with Grandma Joyce and mother-in-law Geri. (Isn't that the coolest thing, he has 2 Grandmothers named Joyce. And here's another thing, this Grandma Joyce has a son named Gordon...so does the other!

Parker, Elisha's nephew couldn't wait to get into the "B" cake. He is very proud of his blue tongue.

Bryant and his good friend, Nolan.

Attempting to get a good picture of Bryant & Elisha. Nolan steps in...

Jake steps in...

And finally...thank you for your patience!

Bryant and Andrew (best buds and brothers).

Andrew and Nolan cutting the cake. Is there something wrong with this picture?

Hmmmm, we must always be joking around...

Bryant and Charlene ("Big Sister")

Bryant and neighbor Nick. Howdy neighbor! (Nick just had to have his picture taken too).

Bryant and Tricia - sweet little sister.

And then there's Jake. What is it with the Jake's in our family??? No problem here for Bryant, but...

Jake looks constipated! Hold on JAKE!!!

Bryant & Elisha's Wedding, Oct. 8, 2009

2010-02-26T21:15:00.000-08:00

I need to step back in time for a moment, but not too far back. Since I am behind in posting, I thought I'd better get some wedding pictures on here. The day turned out beautiful for October and we couldn't have asked for anything better. Everyone was happy and this wedding was a blessing to both families. Welcome Elisha, our new daughter-in-law, into our family. We love you and hope that you feel as much a part of this family as we want you to be.

Just coming out of the temple, Elisha hugging her Mom.

Jake congratulating the groom.

Is that not the best look of relief on Bryant's face?

Families and friends.

The Brown Family - growing in numbers.

Bryant & Elisha with Bryant's Grandma & Grandpa Brown.

Ooo, la, la!

I LOVE this picture!

The wedding cake was gorgeous!

This is the quilt I made for Bryant & Elisha. I think it turned out pretty good!

The table centerpieces were beautiful.

Bryant, ever hungry, needed to eat before the reception got underway.

Handsome groom and groomsmen!

Spencer, all gussied up.

Thinking about Memories

2010-02-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

Isn't thinking a wonderful thing? I find myself doing just that quite a bit lately. If I let myself, my thoughts wander to things of the past, memories almost forgotten. I also find myself in the present, thinking about ways to make memories for my loved ones. And then, just to keep myself from getting bored, I will allow my thinking to jump to the future, of dreams and hopes, always looking forward.

When my thoughts wander to the past, the first things that come to mind are family and friends. I don't remember, nor do I care to think about material things. Always people. That's me, I guess I'm just a people kind of person. Although, my thoughts do bring me to blueberries, and the Atlantic ocean, and roller skating, and shopping (there is always shopping in every thought). But even each of these brings a memory of someone dear.

Shopping - with my grandmother, affectionately known to everyone as Ma Gillard. How she loved to go to "the K-mart" on Friday nights! Before I left to pursue my own life, I spent a lot of time "shopping" with Ma. I can't ever remember her buying anything, but it was the highlight of her week to climb into my little Mustang Cobra and head to Sydney on Friday night. How many teenagers spend that kind of Friday night time with their grandma? Well...I wouldn't trade those moments for the entire world and so, I think about her often.

Blueberries - what can I say? It's almost a way of life in the summertime. But then there was the time that I had picked an entire roaster full (I used a roaster because I thought it would be easy to carry). It wasn't. I set it down and went to investigate a beautiful bush of berries that had just caught my eye. When I turned back, there was Pops, our loyal dog, eating the berries from the roaster. How he loved blueberries. But he liked them best when someone picked them for him.

The Atlantic ocean - I remember spending many, many moments standing on the cliff, just staring out over the Atlantic. My most vivid memory however, is the day I took my grandfather, Da Gillard to the hospital. As we pulled away from his house, he asked me to please stop the car for a minute. He got out of the car, and stood as close to the cliff as possible. He very carefully scanned the horizon of the Atlantic from his home, a scene I'm sure he wanted to impress into his memory forever. After a few minutes, he got back into the car and said, "I'm ready to go now." Da never came home again after that. When I have the opportunity to gaze out over the Atlantic, whenever I am home, I am brought back to that moment in time, and I can feel my grandfather standing beside me.

So many other memories also. I feel the need to start writing them down, to keep a journal of them. So this is my promise to myself, and to my children so that they will know who I was, who I am, and hopefully who I have yet to become.

25 Things About My Family...

2010-01-24T20:28:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I saw this on Charlene's blog "25 Things About Me" and I thought this might be fun to do! But then as I started to think about it, I probably won't be able to think about "25 Things About Me". But I can definitely think about "25 Things About My Family". So I decided to change it up a bit. So here goes.

1. Our family consists of my husband and myself, four wonderful children, and two married in-law children.
2. We have a cat named Topaz, who thinks we all exist to please him.
3. We have a dog named Sammy, a black lab who we were told would be out of the puppy stage within 3 years. Going on six years, NOT HAPPENING!
4. My husband, Spencer is the best lighting designer in Utah!!! In fact, not just Utah but everywhere.
5. My daughter Charlene, married 5 1/2 years, is quite a crafter.
6. My son Bryant, married 3 months, wants to be a school teacher and will be great!
7. My son Andrew, 16 and learning to drive, AHHHHHH - can NEVER find anything to eat in the house ???? Go figure.
8. My daughter Tricia, 13 1/2 - loves loves loves to write and wants to be an author.
9. We love to spend time together as a family.
10. When a new movie comes on scene, we all MUST go together (as long as it's acceptable for all ages.)
11. Christmas is our favorite time of year and we MUST keep to our traditions - NO MATTER WHAT!
12. We all love the Gospel and work very hard to keep it foremost in our lives.
13. We love our friends and try to make them feel like they are an important part of our family.
14. We have an extended family member named Jake, who either adopted us or we adopted him. No matter, he's as important as the rest (along with his sweet wife Chante and baby Xan).
15. We love music and as a result, have a few musicians in the family.
16. The owners of one violin, one piano, two saxophones, a few guitars, a set of drums.
17. We lived in Massachusetts for 3 years (when Charlene & Bryant were young).
18. We lived in New Jersey for 9 years (where Andrew & Tricia were born).
19. We bought an old farmhouse in West Jordan, Utah and are enjoying its "personality".
20. I was born and raised on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia and am very proud of it.
21. Spencer was born in Pendleton, Oregon but raised in Utah.
22. Although we spend a lot of time with the daily routines of life, we always remember to say "I love you" and "You are important to us" to our children
23. We have tried to teach our children that the true mark of a disciple of Christ is how kind you treat others.
24. Sunday dinners and summer bbq's are the best.
25. WE LOVE OUR FAMILY MORE THAN ANYTHING IN THIS WORLD!

Procrastination!

2010-01-24T07:28:00.000-08:00

So here it is, the end of January 2010 and I decided to take a look at my blog. According to my blog, I'm still in the Fall of 2009. I think I'd better get my act together and get posting....

2009-10-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

A GREAT DAY TO CELEBRATE!

Charlene and Aaron were sealed it the Oquirrh Mountain Temple on September 19, 2009.
There were many there to celebrate with them. The sealing room was almost full. What joy to experience such a wonderful event in the presence of family and friends. Dave & Diana came from Texas and Jake & Chante came from DC, including many other dear friends from Utah.
The counsel and advice received was definitely something all of us can implement in our own marriages.

2009-10-03T22:59:00.000-07:00

2009-10-03T22:53:00.000-07:00

2009-10-03T22:37:00.001-07:00

2009-09-27T19:40:00.000-07:00

Since Elisha has had a number of wedding showers, we decided to have a "Jack 'n Jill" shower and invite couples. It was really a lot of fun. Hosted by Dawnetta and Maria, Bryant's Aunts, it was a fun and hilarious evening. I was glad for the opportunity for both families to meet each other before the wedding, even it was at Bryant's "expense". (Sept. 11, 2009)

Kissing the bows out of her hair. So cute!

Bryant & Elisha's Wedding Shower

2009-09-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

This is hilarious. The best part is listening to Bryant's grandfather's comments in the background.

2009-09-27T19:14:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite places on earth... Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia

HAPPY 13th BIRTHDAY TRICIA!

2009-06-14T19:19:00.000-07:00

Tricia's birthday fell during Girl's Camp this year. So being a good Mom, I snuck up to camp on her birthday to surprise her...and surprise her I did! She was so happy to see someone from the family on her birthday. Just finishing up her breakfast, I came around the corner with her birthday balloon, and all the young women started singing Happy Birthday. It was awesome and brought tears of happiness to her eyes.

Tricia and Angela Shuman eating up the cupcakes that I brought up to camp. They were enjoyed by all and didn't last long.

Waiting for the fireside to begin. Jenny Phillips was going to sing and Tricia just couldn't wait. It was going to be a great evening, except for the cold weather.

Jenny Phillips and Tricia - Jenny sang Happy Birthday to Tricia and gave Tricia the latest copy of her cd. Tricia was ecstatic. In Tricia's words - "This is my best birthday EVER!"

Draper Temple Open House

2009-02-25T21:30:00.000-08:00

Tonight Tricia and I, along with the Young Women and Young Women Leaders in our Ward, went to the Draper Temple Open House. What an awesome experience! What a beautiful Temple! Yes, the wait was long and there were a lot of people waiting to get through...but the wait was well worth it. It is so beautiful. I LOVE to be inside the Temple and to leave all the cares and concerns of the world outside. I LOVE to feel the spirit of the Lord surround me and make me forget all of my worries. I LOVE to learn what I can there and grow from it and want to be a better person. I LOVE to come home and feel like I am so blessed to have all that I have. I wish we could all strive to go to the Temple. What a great place this world would be!!!

Mother Daughter Day!

2009-01-25T15:08:00.000-08:00

So it was sometime last August, 2008 and we spent the day together while the menfolk were off doing men stuff (fishing, camping, something like that). We got our hair done, went shopping for matching outfits, and then met our photographer at the International Gardens in South Salt Lake to have a Mommy/ Daughter photo shoot. We were having so much fun until Tricia announced that she needed to throw up....which she did! Then she said, "I feel much better now." I think it was a combination of the heat and waiting too long to eat. So we continued and got this great shot, just before sunset. I love it and it's one of my greatest treasures, besides my girls that is. Of course the huge print on my wall looks so much better.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-24T22:34:00.000-08:00

Christmas on Temple Square. Patsy's folks came to visit for Christmas all the way from Nova Scotia. We took them to Temple Square to see the lights on New Year's Eve. There was a band playing Blue Grass music in the JS Memorial Building and they were really good. We went inside to keep warm for a little bit. Then we wandered around taking in all the beautiful sites, and we almost walked right into Mitt Romney. That was pretty cool. Actually none of us really noticed him except for Bryant. We tried to get a picture but by that time, our cameras were too cold and stopped working. Oh well. We didn't stay very long to ring in the New Year there...some of us too cold, some of us too old ;) Spencer couldn't be with us as he was getting a play ready to open at the Hale Theatre, but we missed him terribly. Then we went home and played card games until midnight. All in all, a memorable New Year.

Maple Leaf

2008-10-18T17:39:00.001-07:00

Look what Charlene found! I love it! For those of you who don't know, this Maple Leaf represents a tartan for each province in Canada. Nova Scotia is on the right, mostly blue. The center maple leaf is the tartan for Canada.

Thanksgiving

2008-10-18T07:28:00.000-07:00

Andrew and his two best pals, Landon Everett and Jake Pugmire. With those three together, LOOK OUT!

2008-10-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

Tricia just can't wait to eat...she's starving. Doesn't that sound like a "tween".

2008-10-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm, should we show them how it's done?

2008-10-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

We still got it.

2008-10-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

I have got to keep my eyes on these guys at all times! I wonder who she reminds me of. I've got it...my mother!

2008-10-13T20:34:00.000-07:00

Charlene & Aaron helped carve the turkey.

2008-10-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

Bryant helped by making a yummy punch!

2008-10-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

My pretty table all set and ready for guests. I know it won't stay this way for long... hungry appetites are on the way!

2008-10-13T20:19:00.000-07:00

This is what we woke up to on Sunday morning, October 12, 2008. It was hard to believe that we had snow. All Utah skiers are going to be very happy since the ski resorts announced they will be opening early this year. I am not a skier. Most of you who know me well, know that I can't even walk with a garbage can without falling into it, let alone ski down the side of a mountain. But that is another story for another time.

Second Attempt at the Blog....BUT I'm Getting the Hang of It Now!

2008-10-11T22:35:00.000-07:00

So, I decided to look at my blog after Charlene got after me last night and decided to "re-train" me on the thing, and I was so excited to see that I actually had three comments. HOW COOL IS THAT! So since I've actually had some interest shown in my life, I've decided that I will give this a serious go around after all. Tomorrow is the yearly celebration of Canadian Thanksgiving dinner (Thanksgiving in Canada is actually on Monday, October 13). But since it is not a holiday in Utah, we will do our part and have our turkey day on Sunday. I will take plenty of pictures of our turkey and post them on my blog as a formal first go of "doing it by myself without Charlene's help". See you tomorrow.

First Experience at the BLOG!!!

2008-08-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

So I thought for my first blogging experience, I would copy from Charlene's blog. MY BAD!

200 Have and Have nots! BOLD the haves! :0

1. Touched an iceberg
2. Slept under the stars
3. Been a part of a hockey fight
4. Changed a baby's diaper
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Swam with wild dolphins
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a tarantula
10. Said "I love you" and meant it
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise
15. Seen the Northern Lights
16. Gone to a huge sports game
17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Bet on a winning horse
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Taken an ice cold bath
28. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Ridden a roller coaster
31. Hit a home run
32. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
33. Adopted an accent for fun
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment
36. Loved your job 90% of the time
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Watched wild whales
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Gone on a midnight walk on the beach
41. Gone sky diving
42. Visited Ireland
43. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited India
45. Bench-pressed your own weight
46. Milked a cow
47. Alphabetized your personal files
48. Ever worn a superhero costume
49. Sung karaoke
50. Lounged around in bed all day
51. Gone scuba diving
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Done something you should regret, but don't
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Been in a movie
60. Gone without food for 3 days
61. Made cookies from scratch
62. Won first prize in a costume contest
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Been in a combat zone
66. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone

67. Bounced a check
68. Read - and understood - your credit report

65. Spoken more than one language fluently
69. Recently bought and played with a favorite childhood toy
70. Found out something significant that your ancestors did
71. Called or written your Congress person
72. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
73. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
74. Helped an animal give birth
75. Been fired or laid off from a job
76. Won money
77. Broken a bone
78. Ridden a motorcycle
79. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph
80. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
81. Slept through an entire flight
82. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
83. Eaten sushi
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read The Bible cover to cover
86. Changed someones mind about something you care deeply about
87. Gotten someone fired for their actions
88. Gone back to school
89. Changed your name (last name only)
90. Caught a fly in the air with your bare hands
91. Eaten fried green tomatoes
92. Read The Iliad
93. Taught yourself an art from scratch
94. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
95. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt
96. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
97. Been elected to public office
98. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
99. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
100. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
101. Had a booth at a street fair
102. Dyed your hair
103. Been a DJ
104. Rocked a baby to sleep
105. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all fours
106. Raked your carpet
107. Brought out the best in people
108. Brought out the worst in people
109. Worn a mood ring
110. Rode a horse
111. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap
112. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe
113. Buried a child
114. Gone to a Broadway play
115. Been inside the pyramids
116. Shot a basketball into a basket
117. Danced at a disco
118. Played in a band
119. Shot a bird
120. Gone to an arboretum
121. Tutored someone
122. Ridden a train
123. Brought an old fad back into style
124. Eaten caviar
125. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn’t need
126. Ridden a giraffe or elephant
127. Published a book
128. Pieced a quilt
129. Lived in an historic place
130. Acted in a play or performed on a stage
131. Asked for a raise
132. Made a hole-in-one - if mini golf count?
133. Gone deep sea fishing
134. Gone roller skating
135. Run a marathon
136. Learned to surf
137. Invented something
138. Flown first class
139. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury suite
140. Flown in a helicopter
141. Visited Africa
142. Sang a solo
143. Gone spelunking
144. Learned how to take a compliment
145. Written a love-story
146. Seen Michelangelo’s David
147. Had your portrait painted
148. Written a fan letter
149. Spent the night in something haunted
150. Owned a St. Bernard or Great Dane
151. Ran away
152. Learned to juggle
153. Been a boss
154. Sat on a jury
155. Lied about your weight
156. Gone on a diet
157. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget
158. Written a poem
159. Carried your lunch in a lunchbox
160. Gotten food poisoning
161. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission
162. Hiked the Grand Canyon
163. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks
164. Gone to the opera
165. Gotten a letter from someone famous
166. Worn knickers
167. Ridden in a limousine
168. Attended the Olympics
169. Can hula or waltz
170. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books
171. Been stuck in an elevator
172. Had a revelatory dream
173. Thought you might crash in an airplane
174. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert
175. Saved someone’s life
176. Eaten raw whale
177. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint
178. Laughed till your side hurt
179. Straddled the equator
180. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing
181. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival
182. Sent a message in a bottle
183. Spent the night in a hotel
184. Been a cashier
185. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
186. Joined a union
187. Donated blood or plasma
188. Built a campfire
189. Kept a blog
190. Had hives
191. Worn custom made shoes or boots
192. Made a PowerPoint presentation
193. Taken a Hunter’s Safety Course
194. Served at a soup kitchen
195. Conquered the Rubik’s cube
196. Know CPR
197. Ridden in or owned a convertible
198. Found a long lost friend
199. Helped solve a crime
200. Responded to a NJP newsletter