June Jazz

Absolutely nothing happened in June. Well, that's not quite true. Cassie came and visited me on the 21st & 22nd. Or was it the week before?? Whatever. It's always wonderful to have her home even for a short time. She turned 26 on the 23rd. How did my baby girl get to be 26?? I'm only 24. I gave my first lesson in Relief Society on the 22nd since being recalled as a teacher. It felt good to be doing that again. And my branch met its goals for the quarter!!! In fact, I get to go to the recognition event in Provo on August 1 along with four of my staff. They are giving away lots of prizes (flat-screen TV, cameras, IPods, laptop, etc). Some prizes are lame so I hope I win something cool.

Reading
Finished three challenges and joined one. I might be catching up. I love the way challenges stretch me by making me read books I might never even look at. Sometimes that is good and sometimes not so good.
Books Read
Murder on a Girl's Night Out, rated 3.75 mystery
Too Soon to Say Goodbye, rated 3 memoir
The Fireman's Fair, rated 4.25 fiction
Law of Attraction, rated 2.5 non-fiction
Consequences, rated 3 fiction on CD
The Prizewinner of Defiance, Ohio, rated 4.5 non-fiction
The Fatal Shore, rated 3.5 non-fiction
Far World - I haven't written my review or rated this one but it was really good. I'm writing a review for a blog tour for the author. fantasy
It was a pretty lackluster month for reading, especially since The Fatal Shore took me two weeks to read. It's huge and has small print and is about the penal colonies that first settled Australia. I mooched ten books but gave away thirteen so I should be getting ahead except I bought four used books from Amazon. YIKES!! But The Fatal Shore was one I mooched away and that should count as three books. :)
Movies
Prince Caspian - This is the movie Cassie and I went to at the theater. I liked it better than the first Narnia movie. The prince is very nice looking.
27 Dresses - DVD
The Importance of Being Earnest - DVD
I joined the Disney Club and got some great DVDs. Most are classics (Summer Magic, etc) I love to watch but there were a couple of new ones.
TV
What can I say? I am a reality TV junky. This month I have really gotten into watching The Bachelorette. I like her, she's pretty straight forward and honest. I also like Nashville Nights (I think that's the name) except it's on about the same time as The Bachelorette. On Tuesdays I watch America's Got Talent. And then I catch the reruns of Home Improvement on Sunday.
Overall Impression
I seem to be watching a lot of TV this month, but managed to keep the lawn mowed. That's about all I do outside. The weeds are growing rampant and my cottonwood tree is getting scary. The branches are so long I'm afraid they will break. It looks really bad. It's been hot in the day; but, with one or two exceptions, sleepingly cool at night. I'm enjoying working at the temple one night a week and have had a few choice experiences there.

May Memo

What on earth happened to May?? And where was I all month? These are the kind of questions that are slowly driving me insane, but crazy is cute, right? Here's what my feeble brain can recall:

May 3rd: I posted my first review that an author has asked me to do. That was kind of fun and kind of scary. I really like Tristi Pinkston (she's a blogging buddy) and I was worried about not liking her book. But it was very good, so no problem. The book, Season of Sacrifice, was based on her great-grandmother's journal and details a grueling trek across southern Utah and her family's foray into polygamy. Here's a link to my review.

May 4th: I was released as Relief Society President. Wow, what a rush. People ask me if I feel sad. Ummm, NO. I love the sisters in Relief Society and I can still feel that without being in charge. In fact, it's easier to feel that. Jean Beynon is the new president, she'll be wonderful. It's funny, she seems just as insecure as I was. . . even after two plus years. Maralee Richens is the first counselor. She was my compassionate service leader and, boy, did I appreciate her. Julie Justice is the second counselor. (It's a month later and she still hasn't been released as the Stake Young Women's President. Poor girl) Barbara Smuin is the secretary. She was my secretary also, the second counselor in the previous presidency and the secretary in the one before that and before that, she was the stake Relief Society secretary. I'd feel bad for her but she loves it and I know how indispensable she was for me.

May 11th: Mothers Day. This is usually a crappy day for me, but now I'm a grandma so life is wonderful. Besides, I've learned not to beat myself up for not being a perfect mother. My kids are wonderful in spite of me.

May 13th: Went to see National Treasure 2 with some friends from work, Lisa, Grace, Jenn and Julie. We got a party for hitting our goals in March and everyone voted to go to the movie. Unfortunately, only five of us went so the bank bought our tickets and treats and then I bought pizza for the whole branch the next day. But the movie was a lot of fun.

May 22 & 23: I went to Salt Lake to watch Lincoln while Stacey got things packed for the big move. He was so much fun on Thursday, but that night he developed a 104^ fever. It was pretty scary but with Tylenol and a warm bath, he cooled off. And he was so good even being sick. The next day, Stacey took him to the doctor and that made her feel a lot better. It was lucky that I was there so she had a car to drive. Funny how things like that work out. Of course, Lincoln still didn't feel very well and he wanted his mom. So I went shopping and spent a bunch of money.

May 24, 25 & 26: Memorial Day weekend. I drove back to Vernal on Friday and Cassie flew past me just after Strawberry Reservoir. She drives like a maniac. I don't think that car was made to go that fast. I hit a huge rainstorm just west of Roosevelt which was scary. Lots of water on the road and I don't see well with dark, wet roads. Saturday, Cassie drove to Grand Junction and back to visit a friend. I hope she drove slower. We played games at Mom's with the family and on Sunday. Susan and Julie were up from Cedar City and Mark from SLC. Monday morning was the annual breakfast. When the kids were small, we had this breakfast at the lake at 6 in the morning. Now, we're doing good to get to Mom's and eat at nine. Still, it was really good. Julie made a fantastic breakfast casserole, and there were pancakes with syrup, strawberries and whip cream. Yummmmy. Bacon, sausage, eggs, fresh fruit. (Should I mention that I am not doing well on my resolution to lose weight. What is the problem here?) Steve came over and helped me start the lawn mower so for now the lawn looks really nice. The rest of the yard and the house look frightful, but the actual lawn is green and trim.

May 28 & 29: Drove to Provo for a manager's meeting. Of course, I spent Wednesday evening shopping. The meeting was really good for a change, especailly if I can implement one or two of the many ideas thrown out. I found out yesterday that one of the managers that was at the meeting died suddenly this weekend. Red was such a great guy and I will really miss his humor at our meetings. He was a year or so younger than me. I should learn to not take life for granted.

May 30: We made our goals at the bank again. That's five months in a row. Guess I won't get fired this year.

Reading: I read or listened to thirteen books this month. One of these was another sent to me by an author, Don't You Marry the Mormon Boys. It was well-written and funny and also has polygamy in its story line. I think my favorites were Persuasion by Jane Austen and Making Money by Terry Pratchett. I finished three challenges and only joined one more. I'm catching up!!

Movies watched: National Treasure No 1 & 2, Dan in Real Life (again), and Becoming Jane. I really liked Becoming Jane. Anne Hathaway was great. I don't usually care for her but this movie was very good. I think I need to read Pride and Prejudice again, but I will try to stifle that urge.

TV: Well Kristy and Mark won Dancing with the Stars and rightfully so. And Derek and Meredith are back together. Cassie recorded Gray's Anatomy on VHS and warned me that her tapes don't work well in my player. I couldn't watch it but I did listen to it so I have a pretty good idea. But TV for the summer looks like a dry desert. Maybe I will do yard work and go for nice long healthy walks. Or I'll read and blog and crochet. Cheya gave me a cute pattern for hats.

Overall impression: Jordan and Stacey are planning to take my grandson all the way to Logan, like Salt Lake is not far enough away. Dang, this grandma stuff is hard. It rained a lot this month which would account for my lawn looking green. And we seem to actually have a spring this year. My lilacs are blooming and smell so good. I went on two shopping sprees so my credit card just earned me a bunch of reward points. And if I do much walking, those new clothes won't fit. Plus I bought a new drill to make my shed sturdier. Wonder when I'm getting around to that. It sounds dangerously like work. I also bought a grain grinder. When the drought hits, I'll be prepared. No wait, I need to buy some wheat and oats and other things to grind. I mooched quite a few books this month, both to and from, but I managed to only buy one. That must be a record. I may go hungry in hard times, but at least I'll be entertained. Lord, please bless my eyesight.

April Agenda

April, the month of sunshine, showers and silly jokes. Well, that didn't pan out, so what did happen last month?
5th & 6th General Conference. This was President Monsen's first conference as prophet. It amazed me to see how he seem to assume the mantle more each session. The solemn assembly on Saturday mornig was absolutely inspiring to watch and take part in. And the smile on President Uchtdorf's face as he conducted was so warming. Great talks and a wonderful spirit.
9th Our ward held his annual auction to raise money for Scouts and Young Women's Camp. It had a phenomenal turnout. I spent most of the night in the kitchen cooking and serving hot dogs so that probably saved me some money. I did get to watch a 22-year-old bid $200 for a quilt. I wonder if having his girlfriend watching adoringly had anything to do with that. The auctioneer even gave me credit for making one of the quilts. Quit laughing.
11th thru 13th Mom and I went to Salt Lake and Brigham City. Read the next post down for more on this trip.
23rd I started working in the temple as an ordinance worker. This calling stressed me out, but once I got there and went on a session, I knew I was truly being blessed. At least once a week, I will be feeling some peace and a calm spirit.
28th thru 1st Wayne and Susan came from Virginia for a visit. Bret is graduating at the U on Friday.
30th It snowed for crying out loud.

Reading I read thirteen books last month. Peter Pan was my favorite. Finished one challenge and joined two more. I may need therapy. The review for one book, Season of Sacrifice, won't be posted until May 3rd as part of Tristi Pinkston's virtual book tour. I also agreed to review a YA fantasy book for another author, J Scott Savage, next summer. As part of that review, I get to do an interview. So take a look at the Farworld Blog Tour and tell me what you would like to know about this author and his books. Thinking of good questions is the hard part. I just started reading Persuasion by Jane Austen.

Movies watched Dan in Real Life

What's on the tube? I'm still immersed in Dancing with the Stars. Shannon Elizabeth got voted off last night. Too bad, I like watching her and Derek dance but not watching them moon over each other. I can't decide how much of these romances are real or not. I just want to focus on the dance, please. It's been months since Gray's Anatomy was on and I've been fine. But one show last week and I'm hooked again. Dang.

Overall impression It was too windy on Saturday to burn so I've missed my chance until the fall. It was so windy that a panel of my new rickety shed that replaced the shed the wind blew over last summer blew out. I need a new drill so I can screw those panels down instead of the staples that are now holding things together. If this shed blows down, I'm forking over some dough to get something sturdy. We met our goals at work for the month, but it's never enough. Oh dear, I'm whining. I hate that in others but it seems called for in my own circumstances. Actually, I'm glad we met the goals and hopefully I can master the rest. Does that make up for the whine? (fourteen years, two months and three days to retirement) Sorry, it's been a hard week.

Cousin's Party

Friday morning, Mom and I drove out to Salt Lake because we were going to Cousin's Parties in Brigham City the next day. We were hoping to take Cheya with us, but it seems she has caught the bug that has afflicted the rest of her family this last month. (Bug seems like such a petty word for this nasty illness.) It was too bad, because both Mom and I got really sleepy on the way out even though we were listening to a book on CD, The Fallen Man by Tony Hillerman. (See review on Framed and Booked blog) I know Cheya would have kept the conversation going enough to keep us both awake. We stopped at the outlet mall in Park City and Mom was able to find herself a really cute dress and jacket. I bought a jacket as well. Then we headed into the city and stopped at Fashion Place Mall since we were planning on eating at The Cheese Cake Factory that evening. More shopping, more fun. Susan soon joined us, then Jordan, Stacey, and Lincoln. I bought him a cute outfit that looked just something his dad would wear. Except for the hat, I don't believe I've ever seen Jordan in a hat like that. Greg stopped at the restaurant and learned it would be a two hour wait for our party, so we bagged that idea, found Mark, Scott and Cassie outside the mall and headed over to Macaroni Grill. I must put a plug in for that place. Their service is impeccable. Our waiter was so good, except for maybe drink refills, but it was very busy. One of Stacey's ravioli's was empty, they replaced it and the manager came out to apologize and took care of the drink refills. I had the Chicken Tuscano soup and it was to die for. (Cream based with parmesan gnocci, tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, mmmm) Lincoln was incredibly entertaining. I mean look at this face. He is such a good, happy baby besides being

hilarious. I think I only heard him cry once this weekend and that was at bedtime. I love him. If you want to read more about Lincoln and his family, click here. After dinner, we visited Greg and Jenny Lou's place. They have a fun dog named Apache, and Jenny Lou always has great stories to tell. The next morning, we drove up to see how construction was coming on the Draper Temple. It is going to be an impressive building and what a view. But what is up with those houses being built just above the temple? Some kind of gothic castle thing is going on. And big enough to be hotels. Then we picked up Greg and headed to Brigham. Mom met her cousins at the Maddox Lodge in Perry and had a great time with the 32 people who came. The younger generation (yes, that's me) met at the Idle Isle in downtown Brigham. There were fifteen of us: Cindy, Jane, Gordon, Greg, Mark, Craig, Gwen, Tracie, Susan, Eldon, Matt, Kaylynn, Pam, Roger and me. We had a great visit, but it sure is a long way to go for lunch. Then back to Salt Lake, drop Greg off to help get Katie ready for prom (she's a queen candidate), send Susan off to Cedar City and meet up with Cassie, Jordan, Stacey and Lincoln for more food. If you think these trips are all about eating, you're probably right. I got to visit with Stacey and Cassie for an hour or so later that night and help put Lincoln to bed. Next day, we headed back to Vernal. The weather was beautiful, so perhaps spring will make it after all.

March Monitor

March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. Whatever. Still I can actually believe spring may be coming. I hope I don't miss it in the mad dash to summer that we usually experience here in Vernal. Here's what happened:

March 5: Went to dinner with three high school friends, Nikki, Judy and Julie. Julie had just had another surgery on her foot and had the photos to show all her new hardware. I guess I am very fortunate.

March 15: Mom and I traveled to Salt Lake, picked up Greg and went on to Kaysville for my Aunt Mary's funeral. Mary was my dad's older sister and I hadn't seen her for a number of years. The funeral was very nice and it was great to renew acquaintances with any number of cousins: Brent, Arlene, Scott, Clair, and Inez are Mary's children. I also saw Roxanne, Becky, Alwyn, Mike and Joe who are Aunt Edna's kids. Mother was amazing as always with her memory of who married who and what their kids names are, etc. Scott pointed out a cowboy etching on the joint headstone for Mary and Vene. This etching was used to head Uncle Vene's article that he wrote each week for the Vernal Express back in the late 40's. I never knew he did that. It was a good family gathering and I'm so glad Mom pressured me into going.

March 18: Relief Society Birthday Party. I did nothing for this event except take salad. The committee did a wonderful job. The food: soup, salad, rolls and cake & ice cream, was great. The cake was yellow cake with a raspberry jam center and white icing. I found out later that the jam was used to hold the cake together when it cracked. It tasted so good. We made fleece blankets for the Children's Justice Center and put in an act of service we would do for whichever sister drew it out. I put in a car wash and Jill Espinoza drew it. I really need to go get her car and get it washed. I really need to wash my own car!! Then we watched a video of photos which Amber Meager had put together. There were a lot of tears shed as we saw photos of Shelly Slaugh who passed away last December (her mom in my counselor) and Uela Hansen before she lost sixty pounds or so in her cancer battle. She sure didn't look like she felt good that night and it was sad to see her picture of better days.

March 20: Eight of us went to the Care Center to visit with the patients there and help them open their Easter egg for the day. The Stake had put together Easter baskets on their Humanitarian day last month and this was the culmination of the event.

March 21-23: Easter weekend. Jordan, Stacey and Lincoln came out Thursday night; and Cassie showed up on Friday to spend the weekend with me. It was so fun having them all there even if my house is small. Lincoln got to sleep in my room which was so fun. He is such a cutie.

Anyway, we had a good time at Grandma Rae's, dyeing eggs and eating and playing games.

The Reading Front I joined three new challenges; sick, isn't it? and read eight books. I'm currently reading A Student of Weather by Elizabeth Hay for the Canadian Challenge and still working on the Book of Mormon.

Movies Watched August Rush.

What's on TV About all I watch is Dancing with the Stars. So far, Penn Gillette, Monica Seles, and Steve Guttenberg have been voted off. Adam Corolla, who dances with Julianne Hoff, made a great joke about the Mormons.

Overall Impression March is too windy, but it's great seeing buds on some of the trees and early greenery poking up through the dirt. And the snow is gone!!! I am so ready for spring.

February Features

Doing a monthly recap is one resolution I intend to keep. So far, I haven't missed a month. Yay!!

Highlights

Feb 1 - Decided to start my resolutions for the year: Eat healthy, read the Book of Mormon, and exercise regularly.

Feb 4 - My 52nd birthday. We had german chocolate cake at work and I went to a movie with a friend. Thomas Monsen was announced as the next President of the church with Henry B. Eyring and Dieter F. Uchtdorf as counselors.

Feb 6 - The local McDonalds reopened after being torn down and rebuilt over a space of five months. I have mixed feelings because it's easier for me to avoid the other fast food places. But the owner is a friend so I went to the open house and it's really a nice bulding: wall of water, fireplace, Playstation, a huge play tree. Now if I can just stay away.

Feb 7 to 10 - Took a trip to Salt Lake to see my kids and grandson. Lincoln is so much bigger but even cuter. He is so fun to play with. He doesn't just drool, he screws his little eyes shut and blows. What fun?? Anyway I had to buy him new toys, didn't I? We ate out at California Pizza Kitchen for my birthday and I got to babysit while Stacey and Jordan went to a movie. The next day, Cassie and I went shopping: JoAnns, Famous Footwear, Tai Pan, and Target. Then we ate out again and Cassie, Stacey and I went to a play at the Hale Theater, "Lend Me a Tenor." We just barely made it but the seats were great and the play was fun. Cassie bought my ticket for my birthday. Isn't she sweet? The next day was time to head home. I got to visit with Alyson and Katie for a minute as we loaded Katie's stuf into my car for the trip home. Katie has been living in Layton but decided to move home. It was a fun trip. I never even got sleepy since the conversation just flowed.

Feb 17 - I had to talk in Sacrament Meeting with one of the Stake Presidency. The topic was on service. Yikes.

Feb 19 - Relief Society Book Review. There were just two of us there so we only discussed the book, "Drawing on the Powers of Heaven" for a minute. Besides, my copy fell apart. Next month, we are going to review "Twilight," and no, it was not my suggestion. We're hoping to get some of the Young Women to attend.

Feb 23 - Stake Humanitarian Day. About 100 sisters got together to make Easter baskets for the folks at the care center. Each ward also tied a quilt for its Relief Society closet. I was there until three doing ours. We were the last ones there and my back was killing me. Thanks to my mom who stayed and helped even though her ward finished hours earlier. We had really good soup for lunch. All in all, a good day.

Feb 29 - The month is over; and my branch met our goals one more time. I'm not sure what the bonus is; but there were only two branches in my area that met their goals. High Five!

Feb 29 - A look back on my resolutions: I took the Book of Mormon to work and refused to take anything else to read, so that resolution is being kept. The one I'm reading has comments and notes right alongside the script so I'm gaining lots of great insights. So far, I have exercised exactly zero times (Hang my head in shame) and really blew the eating right this past week. Well, I had to buy doughnuts for work when we hit our goals on Tuesday, didn't I; and I had promised pizza since January and McDonalds was just too enticing. I'm disgusted.

Books Read

**I Married the Klondike by Laura Beatrice Berton, Rated 4.5

**Look Me in the Eye by John Elder Robinson, Rated 4.25. The author left me a comment so that's always fun.

**The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, Rated 4.75. Recommended by Katie, thanks very much.

**New Moon by Stephanie Meyer, Rated 4.25. I am now a Twilight junkie.

**Eclipse by Stephanie Meyer, Rated 4.5. And I'm in love with Edward and I like Jacob lots.

**Shadows on the Rock by Willa Cather, Rated 4. Recommended by Cheya, another good one.

**Playing for Pizza by John Grisham, Rated 3.75.

**The Chase by Clive Cussler, Rated 4

**The Alchemist by Paul Coelho, Rated 4.25

Currently reading

**The Book of Mormon

**Mark Twain by Ron Powers. It's 600+ pages and I'm on page 67. Partly interesting, partly contradictory and mostly a little boring. I sure hope it picks up.

Movies watched

**Twenty-Seven Dresses. This is the movie I attended with a friend from work. I really enjoyed it. Katharine Heigl has a flair for comedy. I liked her much better in this than on Gray's Anatomy. The ending was hilarious.

**Pride and Prejudice with Keira Knightley. Not nearly as good as the Colin Firth version but much shorter. I love Donald Sutherland but I prefer the Mr. Bennett in the other version. And Darcy grew on me. He was really cute. And what was up with Mr. Bingley's hair? It was a good thing he has 5000 a year.

What's on TV

Dance Wars is over. Bruno's team won. They will get a recording contract; but, based on the single they performed, I doubt if I will buy it. There were some great performers on both teams and the show was fun to watch. But it's two more weeks until Dancing with the Stars. And when does Gray's Anatomy start again?? I did watch the Oscars. Isn't it funny that they kept cutting the speeches short and then the show ended ten minutes early? And the red carpet show at the first was weird. I didn't see very many of the dresses and those were mostly presenters that you saw anyway. Guess I'll have to wait for People magazine.

New Acquisitions

Three new pairs of shoes. The cutest pair have one size 7 and one size 8.

Lots of great stuff from Tai Pan, Easter decor, a ceramic hen, wire basket and ceramic balls.

New clothes from the Dress Barn. I love that place.

Six new CD's from BMG: Bon Jovi, KT Tunstall, Hayley Westenra, Josh Rouse, Nora Jones and James Blunt.

I bought six books at Barnes and Noble, won a giveaway book, and mooched nine more. I mooched nine away so I really only gained seven books.

Overall impression

The month started out freezingly but we had a great thaw mid month. Of course, the farmers are worried because too quick of a thaw will hurt the water situation. It's still pretty warm but foggy the last week. I leave my house each morning in dense fog, drive into the sunshine after about three miles, then the fog has reached town by the time I get off, just not nearly as thick as it is at my house when I get home. I do love the fog except to drive in it. Today, I watched out my front window as it ebbed and flowed. First I can't see the house in the field across the street and ten minutes later, there it is. Great stuff. Things are going pretty well at work, except for teller gave notice. We're getting a transfer but haven't replaced the other yet. Hate that. Even so, it's been a pretty good environment for a while, and everyone gets along quite well. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

January Journal

Following Alyson and Cheya's examples, I am going to try to recap each month this year. Hopefully, it will help me be better at my journaling efforts. Unfortunately, January was a pretty boring month for me. But I'll try:

Highlights:

Jan 3: The bank set goals for each branch to meet on this day and earn a lunch for the employees. We made our goal!!! January is off ot a great start.

Jan 6: Visiting Teaching Workshop. How amazing to get visiting teaching all set for the year on the very first Sunday. The lesson went well, lots of comments were shared; and a spiritual testimony meeting ended the workshop.

Jan 22: Received eight packages in the mail containing 15 books, 2 DVD's and 2 CD's. What fun.

Jan 27: A dear sister in the ward, Donna Stewart, passed away just six hours before President Hinckley. This was a great day to celebrate the lives of two wonderful people.

Jan 30: Annual birthday lunch with Mom, Cheya, Myke and Verona at JB's.

Jan 31: For the first time ever, my branch met the special January goals set by upper management. Good thing we reached the goals early because the last four days of the year were deadly slow and boring. Next year's goals will be murder, but I'm basking in the glory now. Plus we receive an extra bonus. Yippee.

Books read:

Airborn by Kenneth Oppel

Marley and Me by John Grogan

Seven Lies by James Lasdun

The Hundredth Man by Jack Kerley

Mercy Among the Children by David Adam Richards

Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcott

Rose in Bloom by Louisa May Alcott

Below the Salt by Thomas Costain

Nothing to Regret by Tristi Pinkston

On the Night You Were Born by Nancy Tillman

Five Children and It by E. Nesbitt

Salamander by Thomas Wharton

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

Movies Watched

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (DVD, saw it first in the theater)

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (DVD, first time I've seen it)

What's on TV

Dance Wars - a new series that's okay but not as fun as Dancing with the Stars.

A bunch of reruns on Gray's Anatomy. I missed the only one that wasn't a rerun.

With the writer's strike, there's not much to watch; so I just read and blog.

Overall impression of the month:

It was so cold. Below zero temperatures for days and days. When it finally warmed up the last part of the month, we got slammed with snow and more snow. Then it was back to below zero. My gas bill is unbelievable because I hate to be cold. I start my car every morning to warm up and it makes a horrible high-pitched squealing noise. I know it's time to leave when the pitch lowers. I'm tired of shoveling snow and walking on ice. We've only had a few days of fog. I do love the fog, especially the frost left on the trees and bushes that glimmer when the sun finally does shine through. I just keep repeating, "It's almost spring, it's almost spring."

Laugh with Me

A friend e-mailed this site to me today. I don't usually download these things because my computer is so slow, but this one didnt' take too long. I thought it was hilarious. Check it out.

http://www.chumfm.com/MorningShow/bits/march24.swf

Reflections on 2007

I have so enjoyed reading other blogs reliving this past year that I decided, in a mood of introspection, to do the same. (Wow, that sounded deep!!)


1. The more things change, the more they stay the same.
It does seem like things are changing all around me. The town is growing by leaps and bounds, the family is growing, my ward got a new bishop, big staff changes at work, but I am still the manager at the bank and Relief Society President at the ward. I live in the same house (30 years), still read lots and spend way too much time on the computer. I can't even think of any major purchases. So is my life boring or merely comfortable? I'll have to think more on that.

2. Books, books and more books.

Let's just say reading is my favorite past time. Last year I read 109 books. My favorite book was definitely "The Book Thief," but there were many other great books finished last year. I truly got into the spirit of the Challenge which let me focus my reading more on books I already owned. I was pretty disciplined about finishing those challenges.

3. Bookmooch

I joined the Bookmoooch website in August and have since given away 76 books and received 68. That would mean I had made a small dent in the piles of books I own except that I bought a few books as well. I try to be good, but it's hard.

4. Trips

I did very little traveling this year; that could be why I'm in a funk. Yes, there were a few trips to Salt Lake, including a trip with my 50's friends to see "Little Women, The Musical" at the Hale Theater. I also drove to Moab for an annual bank meeting and, once again, saw very little of the surrounding countryside. This time I did make it down Moab's main street. The funnest trip was with my mom, sister and brother to visit relatives in Fielding, Utah. We spent one evening with my Uncle Donald, his wife, Eleanor, and my Aunt Betty Jean, going over old journals and listening to Mom and Donald reminisce. The next day, we drove over the hill to Clarkston and then into Logan. What a blast of memories when we ate pizza at Frederico's. That was a favorite haunt of mine when I was in college.

5. Most imporant of all!!!

All of this is just fodder building up to the real highlight of my year. Everything else pales before this momentous occasion. That's right, I'm speaking of the birth of Lincoln on Sept 11. He was born by C-section at 5:00 that evening and I'm the very proud grandma. I even spent five days babysitting while Stacey had to work. I was exhausted but elated. Do you think he will remember me? I haven't seen him for over a month.

Baby Blessing

Last Sunday morning, I got up and drove to Salt Lake for the day. What a beautiful drive, wending my way through the snow covered mountains and that crisp, clean, cold, air. Even though the storm on Saturday was horrendous, I felt blessed seeing the beauty it left behind. The reason for my day-trip was to see my first grandson, Lincoln Clark, be blessed. I got to Jordan and Stacey's in time to see Lincoln being bathed. He produced his own geyser and got to be bathed again. What a joker. It was touch and go for a while after he somehow got lotion in his eye. He has a very healthy set of lungs. And what a tug at the heartstrings to see his big blue eyes brimming with unshed tears. But finally, he was ready. Of course, Lincoln was very handsome in his formal attire of white shirt, black pants, and black and white polka dotted vest. And we made it to the church on time. The star was fast asleep. So we were able to hear the blessing. Two of Jordan's friends from high school were able to attend and stand in the circle along with Stacey's two brothers and Jordan and Stacey's fathers. What an amazing experience to observe your son take his newborn and, exercising his priesthood, give the baby a name and a blessing. Jordan obviously put a lot of thought and prayer into that blessing because it was beautiful. He blessed Lincoln to always know that his Heavenly Father and brother, Jesus Christ, loved him and to feel that love. He talked of the gift of the Atonement and how it applied to him personally. He blessed him with the gift of discernment in his choices throughout his life and the gift of faith. Then he told Lincoln how thankful his parents were to have him here and how much they loved him. There was more about serving a mission, being married in the temple, being an example, and things I have forgotten. I should have written this post that day. Needless to say, I cried. I was so touched. Jordan and Stacey are amazing parents, so much wiser than I was at that age. And Lincoln is an amazing baby.

5 Things Meme

Alyson tagged me to do this meme. It's a good thing, otherwise this blog may have died from neglect. 5 things I was doing ten years ago: 1. Working at the bank 2. 2nd Counselor in the Young Women's presidency 3. Teaching Cassie how to drive (not very well, I might add) Good thing she learned on her own. 4. Staying up late waiting for Jordan to come home. 5. Making angels for my Christmas tree. 5 things on my To-Do list today: 1. Make a shopping list for tomorrow 2. Clean the bathroom 3. Clean the kitchen 4. Write a book review 5. Get ready for home teachers 5 things I would do if I were a millionaire 1. Invest wisely 2. Plan for early retirement 3. Sell my house and move to Salt Lake 4. Travel 5. Make a will 5 Things I'll never wear again (or have never worn) 1. Halter tops 2. Bikinis 3. High heels 4. Bell bottoms 5. Wonder Bra 5 favorite toys 1. Lincoln 2. My computer 3. My camera 4. My books 5. My recliner 5 people to tag Sorry, I draw the line. Alyson already tagged almost everyone I know in Blog World and I think the rest of you should just do this because it's fun.

A Trip Down Memory Lane

After visiting the Salt Lake Book Festival, Susan, Mom and I traveled up to Fielding to visit with relatives. First we stopped in Brigham City and spent some time with Uncle Gordon, Aunt Carol and Cousin Pam. Gordon has been in the rehab center there, but we found him in good spirits and looking forward to returning home soon. Carol looks so much like my mother and it's joy to watch the two talking together. And Brigham City looked gorgeous in its fall colors. I'm glad there were still leaves left on trees, since Vernal is pretty bare. Next we traveled to Fielding for dinner with Uncle Donald, his wife, Eleanor, and Aunt Betty Jean. Mark and Davis met us there and we had a true feast. After dinner, we had the rare privilege of listening Mom, the aunts and uncle reminice about the past. Donald had some written histories of many of our ancestors. I need to get a copy of all of those. Great company and great stories. The next day, we traveled with Donald and Eleanor to Clarkstown, UT, just north of Fielding. After driving around for a while, we finally decided where aunts and uncles had lived in the past. Then we visited the cemetery which has a great view overlooking the Cache Valley. It's too bad there was such a haze from the California fires. We found Martin Harris' grave and others. It's a beautiful site with lots of elaborate head stones and markers. Finally, we drove into Logan and had lunch at Fredrico's. This was a favorite of mine from long-ago college days when we would walk up for salad and garlic bread. It was just as good as I remember. After a drive by the gorgeous Logan temple, we headed home. I love hearing stories about my ancestors, just wish we had recorded the tellings.

Fun Facts About Me

A good friend sent me an e-mail listing with these questions and her answers. It was fun to learn a little more about her. I was supposed to answer the questions myself and send the e-mail back to her and also to other e-mail friend. I decided it might be better to share these facts with those who read my blog. I'm not a great e-mail correspondent. I changed a few questions because some related to sending out e-mails.

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? No, my parents made it up.

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Thirty minutes ago. I was watching a special about the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. A very sick ten-year-old girl had requested to meet with a few members of the choir. When she arrived at the hotel, she found the lobby packed with the choir and visitors. Then they sang to her and it was beautiful. And yes, it made me cry.

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING ? Not particularly

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Tuna fish

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? A son and a daughter-in-law, a daughter, and a gorgeous grandson. (Please see the previous post)

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Sometimes

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Unfortunately I do.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS ? Yes

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Never! The thought gives me chills.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Oatmeal

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Of course

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? I used to be, but now, I'm not sure. I'm speaking mentally and emotionally. Physically, not a chance. I can barely open a jar.

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Chocolate chip with those little tiny chips. Since that is almost impossible to find now, I'll say cherry nut.

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Their smiles

15. RED OR PINK? red

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF? My weight

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My kids

18. FAVORITE HOLIDAY? Thanksgiving

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Black sweats and black fuzzy slippers

20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? Halloween sugar cookies

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The between general conference sessions documentary

22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Periwinkle, pretty color and neat word.

23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Rain, baking apples, fresh cut grass

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? A customer

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Of course, she's amazing.

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Swimming, gymnastics & figure skating

27. HAIR COLOR? A lovely blend of dark blonde with golden highlights. I suspect it's naturally very gray, but I try to avoid that like the plague.

28. EYE COLOR? Green with flecks of brown

29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? No

30. FAVORITE FOOD? This post isn't long enough. I love cheeseburgers and fries, everything at Thanksgiving dinner, pumpkin cookies, and let's not forget chocolate.

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy Endings!

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Transformers

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Gray

34. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer, but fall is my favorite

35. HUGS OR KISSES? I'll be safe and say hugs.

36. FAVORITE DESSERT? Chocolate cake

37. FAVORITE TV SHOW? Dancing with the Stars (How could they send Albert home?) and Gray's Anatomy

38. FAVORITE BOOK THIS YEAR? The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Woman in White by Wilkie Collins

40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? My mouse

41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT? I didn't watch TV last night

42. FAVORITE SOUND? Fog, it mutes everything

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles

44. WHAT IS THE FURTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? St. John Newfoundland

45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I can roll my tongue over both ways and curl it into a tube. It's really very impressive.

46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? St. John, Newfoundland

47. LAST THING YOU BOUGHT ONLINE? Clothes

48. FAVORITE TIME OF DAY? Sunset

49. FAVORITE FLOWER? Peony

50. LAST CD YOU LISTENED TO? Five for Fighting "two lights"

Isnt' He Sweet?

What can I say? Being a grandma is the best thing in the world. It was so fun to hold little LIncoln while he slept. I love those little huffy-puffy noises he makes when he breathes really fast. I love the wrinkles in his forehead when he raises his eyebrows. I love the way he gazes up at his mommy when she talks to him. I even love the way his face crunches up right before he cries. I love watching his mom and dad change diapers. (It's a team effort) I especially love that they got me up at 6 a.m. to watch him him after his early morning breakfast so they could sleep some more. Wow, three hours with just LIncoln and me. Leaving Sunday afternoon and not knowing when I could visit again was the hardest thing to do, knowing he will change so much before I see him again. I guess it's for the best because I would hold him forever if his parents would let me. Isn't he adorable?

Meme

Booklogged has tagged me to do this meme. I like memes because they get me thinking about things that are tucked away in the recesses of my mind. Okay, most of these things haven't been tucked back too far and won't surprise a lot of you, but . . . live with it. I thought "tucked away in the recesses of my mind" sounded quite poetic.

Here are the rules:

1. Link to your tagger and post these rules.
2. List eight (8) random facts about yourself
3. Tag eight people at the end of your post and list their names (linking to them)
4. Let them know they’ve been tagged by leaving them a comment on their blogs.

So on we go to the Great Eight!!

1. I decorate my Christmas tree by themes. So far, I have an angel tree, a Santa tree, a snowman tree, a colors tree (big mutl-colored lights and lots of different colored and shaped bulbs, and a chartreuse tree (mostly chartreuse ornaments and wide ribbon with a little white and pink mixed in. As you can imagine, my Christmas decorations take up a lot of room in my house. I was going to post a picture from one of my family's progressive dinners (we go from house to house admiring the tree and eating a different course at each place), but . . . . . . . .
2. Blogger hates me. I did pretty good to get Blogger to let me do the title for this post. Adding a couple of pictures--out of the question. There was a good three months that I couldn't get into "Edit html" which created havoc on my admittedly basic posting skills. And everytime I edit an existing post, Blogger adds a few inches of extra space which I then have to edit out. What can I say? It's a love-hate relationship.
3. I am a reluctant Relief Society President. Love those sisters, but this is a trial of my faith. I guess it's just one more question to add to the list of things I need answers for when I get to the other side. Things like: Why are children starving in Africa? How come so many wicked people have it all and good people so little? Why wars? Aids? poverty? child abuse? Why me?
Important things like that. I don't want to see comments from any of you trying to make me feel better about this. Just let me wallow in my self-pity. But if you can answer any of the other questions, I loved to hear it and I'm sure Heavenly Father would appreciate it as well.
4. I am going to be a grandmother by the end of the week, or surely, the end of next week. Come on out and play, little Lincoln. Plus I get to stay and baby-sit for a whole week in November.
5. I raised two amazing kids as a single mother. Notice that I didn't say I raised them alone, because that was not the case. When I worked two jobs and went back to school for my degree, my mom watched my kids faithfully. She was always helping me get them to places and helping with costumes and school work, etc. etc etc. I also had the most amazing babysitter. This woman had fifteen kids of her own and took my two in and made them part of her family. The rest of my family were so good to include us in their family activities. Then there was the church and its members. How do you teach your kids all they need to know about being good, caring people by yourself? Thankfully, I didn't have to.
6. I am fifty-one. I read a book where the author said that fifty was the best time of her life. Hmmmm.
7. I love the commercial where a gorgeous man is standing in a large light-colored room, lots of big windows with gently billowing curtains. He leans on his hand against an elegant table set with china and crystal as he watches a beautiful woman gracefully enter the room in her flowing evening gown. The table tilts under his weight; he falls to the floor amid the crash of breaking dishes; and he jumps to his feet with the cutest sheepish grin. I haven't seen it for years, but I remember laughing out loud every time I saw it. I think it was an ad for a cleaning product but I'm not sure.
8. I love the fog. Not to drive in it, that's awful; but to sit in a nice, cozy room, wrapped in a fluffy blanket, reading a good book, scented candle wafting fragrance through the air, hot chocolate at the ready, and the silence of that thick, misty shroud surrounding my house and holding the world at bay . . . lovely.

Amazing! I had a hard time coming up with eight things because they really were tucked away. But this was fun. Hopefully, this will satisfy Tristi, who pointed out, "It's been very quiet over here, Framed."

I'm also breaking the last two rules. Thinking eight random things about me has taxed my brain so much that I can't possibly think of eight people to tag. Let's face it, Booklogged, you've already tagged most of the people who might do this meme anyway. But those of you who haven't been tagged, consider it done.

TV Give-Away

Will wonders never cease? You can win a free flat-screen TV just by leaving a comment before August 17th at 5 Minutes for Mom. I was the 1777th comment and I'm pretty sure that should win me the big prize, but it never hurts to try anyway.

Disaster and Good Fortune

My sister and her husband have gone on an extended vacation leaving their home in the care of their eighteen-year-old daughter. Naturally, there is a crisis at home as a huge leak from an unknown source floods their basement. This type of disaster would absolutely floor me and I'm not an eighteen-year-old. But Katie calls her parents and they get her started on the right course with cleaning services, the city, and the insurance. Another daughter, Jenny, lives close by and she rushes in to help. Somehow, the leak is stopped although the source is still unknown. That evening, fifteen people, family and friends, come over to help clean up as much water as possible. But the carpet must be replaced and that means everything in the basement has to be moved. After a family picnic the following evening, we plan to help move out all the furniture. I get there at 9 pm and have to park halfway down the street as cars line both sides of the road. After a few calls and not finding anyone home, Jenny reaches her bishop (leader of her congregation) to see is he can give advice. His teenage daughter is having a party at the time and every one of the kids volunteers to come over and help. With the help of my brother, nieces, nephews, a couple of neighbors, the bishop and all those kids, Jenny and Katie were able to empty the basement in less than a hour. With some leftover treats from the picnic, the kids merrily returned to their party hopefully knowing how much their service was appreciated. I was so touched watching everyone pitching in on a Friday night and having such a good time doing it. Myke and Cheya, you are so blessed to have such great daughters and friends. I was blessed to be there to witness it.

The Blogging Tips Meme

Chris at http://chris-book-a-rama.blogspot.com/2007/07/blogging-tips-meme.html tagged me for this meme. This is an unusual one and, for a change, not book related (gasp!). So here goes:- Start Copy-It’s very simple. When this is passed on to you, copy the whole thing, skim the list and put a * star beside those that you like. (Check out especially the * starred ones.)Add the next number (1. 2. 3. 4. 5., etc.) and write your own blogging tip for other bloggers. Try to make your tip general.After that, tag 10 other people. Link love some friends!Just think- if 10 people start this, the 10 people pass it onto another 10 people, you have 100 links already! 1. Look, read, and learn. ***-http://www.neonscent.com/ 2. Be, EXCELLENT to each other. ***-http://www.bushmackel.com/ 3. Don’t let money change ya! *-http://www.therandomforest.info/ 4. Always reply to your comments. ***-http://chattiekat.com/ 5. Link liberally — it keeps you and your friends afloat in the Sea of Technorati. ***http://chipsquips.com/ 6. Don’t give up - persistence is fertile. *-http://www.velcro-city.co.uk/ 7. Give link credit where credit is due. ****-http://www.sfsignal.com/ 8. Pictures say a thousand words and can usually add to any post.****-http://scifichick.com/ 9. Visit all the bloggers that leave comments for you - it's nice to know who is reading! -http://stephaniesbooks.blogspot.com/ **** 10. Make a blogger template unique: change the background colour, or add a background picture to your header. *http://chris-book-a-rama.blogspot.com/- 11. If you have a problem, ask. Bloggers are very generous with info. http://lifesapicture.blogspot.com Here are the ones I am tagging: Booklogged @ http://bookschatterblog.blogspot.com/ Alyson @ http://www.innuce2.blogspot.com/ Julie @ http://www.unetassedebijoux.blogspot.com/ Cardine @ http://www.cardinesblog.blogspot.com/ Katie @ http://rushinginto.blogspot.com/ Sorry, I could only think of five and I'm trying really hard not to tag Cassie. She is so mean when I do that. :>)

One-Word Meme

This was stolen from Bookfool at http://bookfoolery.blogspot.com/, who stole it from soneone else. Anyway, it's making the rounds. 1. Where is your mobile phone? Purse 2. Relationship? None 3. Your hair? Fried 4. Work? Neverending 5. Your sister(s)? Journeyer %. Your sister(s)? Teacher 6. Your favorite thing? Autumn 7. Your dream last night? None 8. Your favorite drink? Water 9. Your dream car? Lexus 10. The room you're in? Dining 11. Your shoes? Barefoot. 12. Your fears? Decrepitude 13. What do you want to be in 10 years? Retired 14. Who did you hang out with this weekend? Kids 15. What are you not good at? Lots 16. Muffin? Poppy-seed 17. Wish list item? Security 18. Where you grew up? Utah 19. The last thing you did? Work 20. What are you wearing? Jeans 21. What are you not wearing? Bikini 22. Your pet? Ants 23. Your computer? Slow 24. Your life? Lonely 25. Your mood? Resigned 26. Missing? Travel 27. What are you thinking about? Lawn 28. Your car? LaCrosse 29. Your kitchen? Messy 30. Your summer? Smoky 31. Your favorite color? Yellow 32. Last time you laughed? Today 33. Last time you cried? 2nd 34. School? Finished 35. Love? Someday?

Tag, I'm It

I truly believe tag memes are evil. And as you will notice in my previous post, I am just evil enough to be dangerous. Hehe hehe heeeee. (evil laugh) Besides I like Tristi who tagged me. I think she may be the General Relief Society President someday and I want to stay on her good side.

Rule #1: Remove the blog site at the top of the list below, move all the blog site names up one, and add yourself to the bottom. Sundial in the Shade A Writer's Ramblings Musings from an LDS Writing Mom LDS Writers Blogck (Connie S. Hall) Tristi Pinkston, LDS Author Framed @ Life's a Picture (Sorry, Blogspot is not letting me get into html so there's no sense trying to post a link.) What were you doing ten years ago? I was a new accounts person for First Security Bank raising two teenagers. What were you doing one year ago? I was the manager for Wells Fargo Bank, living the empty nest syndrome and serving as Relief Society President in my ward. This was also the year I turned fifty (horrors!!) but I reconnected with some high school friends resulting in a fantastic year. Five snacks you enjoy: 1. Chocolate peanut clusters 2. Potato Chips 3. Kettle corn 4. Chips and salsa 5. Large glasses of ice water Five songs you know all the lyrics to: 1. Puff the Magic Dragon 2. Little Red Hood . . . "you sure are lookin' good, you're everything that a big bad wolf could want. Aahooo." Well, maybe I don't know them all, but the kids and I know the most important ones. 3.. I Wanna Hold Your Hand 4. I am a Child of God 5. Jingle Bells Things you would do if you were a millionaire: Invest it until I was sure I had enough to quit my job and move to Salt Lake, buy a condo, and babysit my grandson, and travel whenever I could. Five bad habits: 1. Eating too much 2. Procrastinating 3. Spending too much time at the computer 4. Not putting things away so that I can find them again 5. Chewing gum Five things you like to do: 1. Read 2. Travel 3. Blog 4. Go to the temple 5. Spend time with my family Things you will never wear again: 1. A bikini (I shudder at the mere thought) 2. High heels 3. My drill team uniform 4. The size 4 jeans with the cute gold foot-prints on the butt. 5. My wedding ring (Notice I didn't say any wedding ring, just the one that was mine. The marquise is now hanging from a lovely gold chain. Five favorite toys: 1. My computer 2. My TBR list 3. My camera 4. My car 5. My books Where will you be in ten years: Hopefully, I will be retired and on my way to far away lands. Five people to tag: Julie Cardine Alyson Katie Cassie, I'm sorry, but Booklogged is on vacation and I can't think of anyone else.