Keep In Touch Everyone

Out of Touch

2009-07-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Rachel turns 8 this Wednesday!

I saw on Facebook that Amanda has 3 children!

Am I the only one who has been so out of touch with the family that this amazes me?

What else is happening with everyone?

If you want to know about me, most of my life is on my blog Motherof8. There's a link on the side here.

Do you know that my Andrew is currently serving a mission in Canada? I post his letters on his blog. Not the link on the side at the moment - that's his pre-mission blog which I think he closed. I am unable to edit the links from this computer? right now? Anyway, His letters are here

I would like to hear how/where everyone is. The old quarterly newsletter took too much time and expense. but I miss hearing from everyone. Please write in!

The Bike Bag

2009-07-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

If you read my blog, Mother of 8, don't bother with this. Nothing new here.

With my health numbers not doing well and my financial health feeling somewhat threatened, I adopted the slogan "Burn Calories, Not Gas". First, I tried riding my bike the 2 miles to light rail for my work commute instead of driving to light rail. That went so well that after a week or two, I decided to try bicycling all the way (a whopping 6 1/2 miles). I have been at it for 2 or 3 weeks. Last week I had an experience:

Knowing that we were on our last gallon of milk, I decided to swing by Bel Air on my way home and buy a couple more. What shock when I got off my bicycle to find that my bicycle saddle bag (a $50 saddle bag with my bike pump, spare tubes, patch kit, umbrella, bungie cords and a few other things in it) already had (gotten off that, is) at an undisclosed location!

My first thought was to retrace my pedals to look for it. Then I realized, goodness! I am nearly home and backtracking will take another couple hours, go home and get the car. So I did. (with a prayer in my heart!) Good thing, too, because I had forgotten it was Wednesday and Benjamin had Youth Meeting.

Benjamin, sharp eyes, came along. I drove back the way I go to work, parts of the route of necessity different than the way home, and stopped at my office building. No bag by the bike rack, where I admit, today's evening mount up was a good bit shaky and it could have fallen off there. The building was locked so I couldn't check with the guards. I drove back home the way I rode earlier, including the detour through Wishing Well's parking lot to check their closing time (6pm Yes, I can go to Wishing Well on the way home if I so desire). No bag anywhere along the way.

After dropping Benjamin at Young Men Activity (sports night, they played whiffle ball), I was at home, when someone came unexpectedly to the door. A lady asked if Barbara Robarts lived here. She had my bag!

Audrey, who has often passed me in the morning along our route on T street and, in fact, passed me twice today, found my bag where T crosses the railroad tracks. The only identification in my bag (this must change) was the return address on a thinking of you note I wrote to my neighbor (who I think is in a nursing home) today. Audrey who is obviously observant, honest and kind, as well as much more fit than I, lives in my neighborhood, on Alcott, just a few blocks west of here.

Thanks to the Lord and Audrey, I have my bike bag back (and successfully stopped by Bel Air on the way home Thursday for 2 gallons of milk, a couple of cucumbers, and some green onions).

Camping in Fort Bragg

2008-09-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

Several months ago, my siblings and I decided to plan a camping trip together. Growing up, our family always went camping in Fort Bragg, so that's where we headed. We had a great time! Here is a video montage of our pics:

Crazy Summer!!

2008-08-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

Well Chelsie and Sarah have both had their babies! Chelsie had little Kileea Corey 7/27/08 at 5:30am! Kileea was 8 pounds 1 ounce, 19 inches long and she was one week overdue! Chelsie had a quick 5 hour delivery and Kileea is just growing so quickly and she is a little over 3 weeks old!

13 days after Chelsie had her baby girl, Sarah had baby Trey 8/9/08 at 7:30am! Trey was 6 pounds 14 ounces, 19 inches long and he was one week early! Sarah had a LONG 23 hour labor! And she had to push for nearly 5 hours until they pulled out the forceps to get Trey out. But she is doing great now and Trey is 2 weeks old today!

I'm so glad that both of my sisters let me watch them have the babies! It was definitely the coolest experience I have ever had!

Nothing else very exciting has been happening! Taylor is doing great, Chad is also doing great and I've just been enjoying summer and dance!

I start school in about 2 weeks! EEK! And im not ready, but oh well! I'm going to be taking almost all advanced classes so it will be a handful but im excited for the school year to begin!

baby tr ey the day he was born!Sleeping!

Its so cute, he always sleeps like that!
week and a half old!
Proud auntie Sami with Kileea right after she was born
Kileea a few days old She is such a little chunk! She looks just like Chelsie!
Quin and her new little sister!

Adam and Hana Carolin!!

2008-08-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

Adam had his first day of school on june 14th!! He loves going to kindergarten!! Adams teachers name is Mrs. Macleod.... In a couple of weeks we are headed up to montana to see jacobs dad and grandma!!! She will be seeing the kids for the first time!!!

When we get back we will celebrate adam and hanas birthday together!! yeah!!!

Great News Jacob Is a Staff Sargant KNow!!! WEEEEE!!! AWESOME!!!

ALSO IN JUNE WE BOUGHT A HOUSE!!! IT IS ONLY 20 MINUTES AWAY FROM DOWN TOWN RENO!!!! SWEET!!!

LUVS
AMANDA JACOB ADAM AND HANA

I guess I should do as I say

2008-08-02T19:47:00.000-07:00

I asked everyone to contribute frequently to our family blog, but then I don’t! I do write in my own blog (howbeit erratically) which is linked to the family blog. I would like to think that counts.

But feeling a little guilty and just in case.....

Home front - We started the new year by painting our bathroom. When my income tax return came, we bought a backyard shed from Costco to keep our bikes and lawnmower in. Now we are slowly in the process of fixing up the master bedroom for the boys to share. We painted it to create an under the sea feel and are now working on the floor. We have sanded and sanded. We probably should sand some more, but we don’t want to. I think we will work on the stain soon. Then the polyurethane. After that we need to figure out some kind of window covering. Hopefully suggestive of sails. Once we move the boys, we are going to try to dejunk the “family room.” Junk collected by over a dozen people living and dead needs to be sorted. sigh IF we ever get the family room cleared, we will fill it up again when we empty out the kitchen which needs to be gutted so the floor and cabinets can be replaced - both of which are almost to the point of the house being condemned. Of course, I haven’t figured out the funding for that yet.......

Church service - At the start of the year I was Cubmaster, but I found myself unable to carry the load properly and by the end of the first quarter I asked to be released. Now I am merely an Activity Committee Member. My children, on the other hand (in their respective wards) include Relief Society President, Mission Leader, Primary President, Teacher’s Quorum President and I don’t know what all.

Andrew has been going through a good bit of paper work and medical checks preparatory to serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We are waiting for word from the insurance company to the oral surgeon so he can have his wisdom teeth pulled. We are considering this a sacrifice for the Lord.

At work - I started as a lowly Account Clerk II for CA State Parks. I got promoted to Accounting Technician - not QUITE as lowly, but fairly so. I am truly blessed to have a nice boss, pleasant coworkers, and the convenience and moneysaving of light rail. When working gets dreary or just gets me down because I miss being at home, I am comforted to think of the beautiful parks I serve even if it is from the bowls of a downtown office building. Can the 10th of 16th floor be called the bowels?

Joseph is also a State worker as of April 1st. He is with Consumer Affairs - Bureau of Automotive repair. Unfortunately, he light rails in the opposite direction - and bikes about 2 miles from home to light rail and another 2 miles from light rail to work. He seems to get a flat about once a week, but he perseveres.

We both should also be taking classes with City College this fall. groan.

I don’t really like Accounting that much. I like receptions duties better. I am trying to figure out if I prefer it enough and if the state offers opportunities to take secretarial and office management type classes. The state may well sponsor me in another accounting class this fall. Other classes would be on my own time and my own dime as it is already work related. I fear I may be too old to carry the load with any degree of grace. I feel too tired and have too little time already during the comparatively easy days of summer!

Adventure - We - Andrew, Benjamin and I (Joseph would rather not live too adventurously) - tried an almost spur of the moment trip to Yosemite over Memorial Day weekend. Perhaps we should have consulted the weatherman. It was so incredibly rainy and cloudy that we actually saw very little of Yosemite and came home the 2nd day. Still, we had fun seeing part of the valley floor briefly Saturday afternoon, sleeping in Wal-Mart’s parking lot in Sonora, visiting Sonora 1st Ward Sunday, and just being together. We came home and enjoyed our own beds, attending our traditional Memorial Day Ceremony at Mt Vernon Memorial Lawn and some family time.

More adventure - Andrew and Benjamin enjoyed a Young Men (Teacher and Priests) high adventure weekend that included white water rafting, water sports and hiking - just here in our local foothills. Despite all the leaders’ and young men’s best attempts, everyone survived. Next week, the go on an LDS Scout Encampment and get home just in time to go on a sibling camping trip to Fort Bragg. Joseph will, of course, also go on the sibling camp trip. It will be just me and the animals at home. The animals are going to be so lonely during the day! I am going to come home to some crazy critters each evening.

Well, wasn’t that exciting?

May all your excitements be the good kinds. (Be sure to tell us, whatever kind they are.)

Love, Barbara, Joseph, Andrew and Benjamin

Mike and Debi Update

2008-08-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

It's been quite a while since you've heard from the McGinness family, and I wanted to just give you all a quick update.

We went to Mary Jane and Matthew's for the Fourth. We had the best time. The Roser's were there along with Ryan's brother's family who was visiting, nieces, nephews, friends….. We had a potluck, with MJ and Matthew providing the burgers and dogs. Michael and Chad took over the grilling, and seemed to have a great time. For once, we remembered the camera and I took a bunch of pictures, so thought we'd share them with you.

Sarah Sam filling water balloons

Mike & (I believe) Ryan's brother & Chad filling more water balloons

At the park

Sam

Aurora (can't believe how big she is)

Our hosts!

Matthews toy! - Took him 2 years to restore.

Good food, good friends and family - Kris and Jeff showed up in time for the fireworks at the end of the day.

The Hill's have a great view too.

I stood out on the balcony watching little flashes of light going off all over Camas & Vancouver. I think this will become our traditional fourth of July from now on.

Lastly, I can't resist letting everyone see how much our girls Sasha and Rose have grown. Sasha is already 9 lbs and Rosie is about 6 1/2 lbs. It's been such a joy to watch them play together, explore, and just relax. Rosie is laying in front of my monitor on top of the papers and whatever's there as I type this.

Michael's been working a lot of long days at the Kafe. It's going pretty well. Of course, there's still a lot to do. Maybe one day I can get him to do his own update to the newsletter and tell you all about it. At least we are taking our week to go to the kite festival in about 3 weeks. It'll be nice to get away. We just have to figure out what to do about the girls while we're gone.

All in all, we are doing well. We have a lot to be thankful for. We hope to hear more from the each of you. Know that we think of you all often and love you all very much.

Love, Mike & Debi

about the Mike and Debi Update

2008-08-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry! I am behind on everything. When I saw this email from Debi, I thought (after how nice!)
1) I was getting a copy of a post she had sent in
2) that I would wait until I had time to savor it (like that is ever going to happen)

Finally, I realized that she had sent it to me to post.

I have used a number of breaks and lunch time at work trying to get it right -it came text followed by pictures, the pictures not in order to follow the text. When I downloaded the pictures on to the computer so I could upload on to Blogger they rearranged themselves again - this time numerically. Alas! as long as I have been blogging with Blogger, I have not yet learned to move my pictures around as I might like. Also, when I copied and pasted the text, somehow the line breaks didn't translate. But I THINK I got it now.

If it came out wrong, I'm sorry. I tried. My computer time is extremely limited these days.

Hopefully, if you are not already an author, you just got an invitation from Blogger to become one. Then you won't have to depend on my unreliable self to post your contribution to the family blog. If I missed you or someone else that you know of, please let me know.

Back to work for me! ( I'm late.)

Update

2008-06-26T15:14:00.000-07:00

Well, Chelsie is almost ready to have her baby! She's due in less then a month. The Sarah is already 1cm dialated! She's not due for 2 more months but the baby seems to want to come early so we'll see what happens! Not much else is new, i got my braces off a week ago! i love my new teeth! And then im just getting ready to take some summer dance classes! Tap, Jazz and Hip Hop!

Heres some recent pics!

This was at Chelsie and Sarah's baby shower back in May

My new teeth!

me dancing at NYCDA! sry haha you cant see my face lol

<3 Sami

Retirement on the Oregon Coast

2008-05-14T13:09:00.000-07:00

The weather is getting nice now and Jeff has been able to go out on the dunes with his buggy........and next weekend is Rhody Days here in Florence which is the first car show of the season for us.

I went to Spain & Portugal in March/April and saw ALOT......we moved from city to city every couple of days......too much for this old gal.....spent a day in Morocco......very interesting. At the end of April, until May 13th, I was in Boone, Iowa helping my girlfriend, Rosann, prepare her house to sell......she retires June 30th and is moving to her property in Palo, Iowa. She is my "sister"......we enjoy our time together......she is my travel buddy also. Italy in Nov/Dec..........

Jeff and I are taking the 5th wheel up to Ferndale, Washington, in June to visit friends that moved there from Sacramento last year. We travel with three dogs and a parrot...........the other seven birds have to stay home !!!

I have tomatoes growing in the sunroom this year.......they don't do well outside here......we have been harvesting LOTS of asparagus this year......they love the sandy beach soil.

We have a good life and don't take anything for granted.........

ROBIN & JEFF in Florence, Oregon

Hey Everyone!

2008-04-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

Hey! It's Sami! Just checking in! Well, I have been up to a lot!! As Chad said, I was in the hospital for a while there and I have fully recovered! Very glad for that! I have gotten back in school, still doing singing, and I finally got back into dance! Back in January I did NYCDA Portland which was defiantly the highlight of my year so far! NYCDA (New York City Dance Alliance) is a dance tour company that tours and you have to make it in and then you spend the weekend at a huge hotel (It was the Red Lion Jantzen Beach Hotel) and take dance classes back to back from some of the best teachers around! And next year I am going to compete and hopefully make it to Nationals so that I can tour with them! I am also planning to try out for American Idol when I turn 16! Everyone who I sing for tells me to try out so I might as well! I am taking a video camera to my next voice lesson and I will record my voice and try to remember to post the video here! Anyways, im just glad to be alive right now!

And I am soon becoming and aunt! Chelsie is officially having a little girl! She's due in the beginning of July and she is naming the baby Beahtrix (Beah or B-B for short!) Sarah is having a little boy! She is due in mid August and she is going to name her baby Trey! So we are all very excited for the summer! Not much else is happening so far! Chad is getting married, Taylor is going well! Reading up a storm and becoming very tan and in shape! It has really been a hectic year! Well, I should get back to homework because spring break doesn't last forever! I'll try to blog soon! Here's just some recent pics! The first one is Quin talking to her little sister! Then its Sarah's recent ultra sound! And then me! I get those darn braces off in about a month so im trying to get lots of pictures with them!

Mike & Debi are Proud to Announce

2008-04-03T19:04:00.000-07:00

The adoption of Sasha and Rose.

Yes, we have 2 new member of the McGinness family. Sasha and Rose were adopted by us from the Oregon Humane Society (OHS) this past weekend.

Since the passing of our beloved Misha, I have been occasionally perusing various kitty sites - Humane societies, rescue places, etc. I looked at a lot of kitties, but never any that really made me go - Wow, that's the one. Well, last Saturday evening, I happened to go to OHS's website and there they were - Rose and Sophie. They were in foster care and they were looking for someone who would adopt both. So, I sent an e-mail to their foster mom, telling her a little about Mike and me and our situation with loosing Misha.

I didn't hear anything that night and Sunday morning when I went on the website, they were gone. I was like OH NO! So, I immediately e-mailed the foster mom asking her if they had been adopted. - oh, while I think Michael looked at one of their pictures, he didn't know I had done this. Two hours later, I got a call from Laura, the foster mom. She said that she had pulled the pictures because she got 10 inquiries on the first day. BUT out of all of them, she thought we would be the perfect fit, and would we like to meet them. I told Michael and of course his response was 'TODAY?' (he was actually not working for a change). I told him we either went and looked at the today or we not get another chance. So, at 4 pm, we walked into OHS. I went to the reception desk to ask for the Foster Care department and Michael made a beeline for the kitty cages and stared petting one of them.

A few minutes later, we were in an exam room and in comes Laura with a kitty carrier which she sets on the table, opens the door and this little gray and white fluff ball walks out. Michael picked her up immediately, sits down and start petting her. This was Rose. Sophie followed and immediately we could tell she was going to be a little spitfire. She wanted to walk all over us, inspect everything, and pick on her sister.

Needless to say, when we left OHS that night, we weren't alone. Rose and Sophie were ours.

So, a little about them. They are approximately 2 months old (and right now Rose is climbing up my arm and sitting on my shoulder). They are a both torte point Siamese mix, though Rose has longer hair that make her look more like a Burmese., Rose is the fluffy one, who's very gentle and cautious and has a very fragile look about her and Sasha (Michael renamed her because he just didn't think Sophie quite fit. This one is definitely a sassy Sasha) is the inquisitive looking one - rambunctious and impish Apparently they were brought in to OHS as strays, though I can't imagine anyone dumping such little babies. They couldn't have been more than a couple 3 weeks old. They were underweight and had respitory infections, though during the 5 weeks they were in foster care, they flourished and are now healthy babies.

They are adapting very well to their new home - love the kitty condo we have and are getting used to our routine. They already know they get fed when we get up and when we get home.

Mike and I are doing well. Business is keeping him busy, but I know he's enjoying it.

I hope this finds all of you in good health and enjoying life. Would love to hear from more of you.

BTW, Rose is still sitting on my shoulder - weird typing this way.

All our love,

Mike & Debi, the proud parents

Remembering Misha

2008-02-23T16:06:00.001-08:00

Michael was writing to someone on the home roaster list last nite (Friday 2/22) and I wanted to share part of it with all of you.

A dear friend and family member of 16 years died while we were eating dinner tonight. He's been my master since the first day he joined our home as a wee furball of a kitten. I still remember staying up with him that first night because he cried and missed his mother so much, our bond was permanently forged. It was often funny, he'd often follow me around like a puppy dog. We knew his time was nigh and decided to take him into the vet and put to sleep after we ate. He's been slowly declining for a couple years from his former 13# robust self down to under 7. Last couple of days I knew his time was short. This evening when I got home he didn't even lift his head when I petted him and he was barely breathing. But Misha always hated going the vet and especially getting shots so departed on his own terms. I was glad for that. I will miss him sorely and never forget him. It'll be a bit empty him not sleeping on the right side of my head even though he'd often be annoying many a early morning batting me lightly in the face as his purr rumbled 'cuz HE deciding it was time to be petted. Which of course I'd dutifully do as commanded then pull the sheet over my head to ward off further battings as I went back to sleep. Life goes on but I am sad and mourn his passing.

This is Debi again - I too will miss our little guy sorely. I'll miss the way he always wanted to get on my lap whenever I was on my computer and wanting me to pet him when Michael and I were sitting watching TV at night - but only for a few minutes, before settling down on Michael's lap (never mine). The house feels so empty today with him gone. It's like you can feel that his spirit has left us. I keep expecting to see him - curled up on the bed or back of the couch, or on my desk (this was new in the last month). Oh, Michael buried him in the backyard, so he will always be with us in some way.

So, now we are a catless home for the first time in over 25 years. Hopefully not for long, but it will be strange for us to have to find that special someone to share our home with on our own Mom gave us both Mariko and Misha, and even our very first kitty we got from Kris.

I'll write more 'family news' stuff later when we're a little less sad.

We miss all of you and so enjoy hearing how you're all doing. Keep posting on the site. We'll try to do better too.

Love and prayers

Mike & Debi

Big News - well, at least for me! lol

2008-02-17T13:42:00.001-08:00

Today I was called, sustained, and set apart as the new Relief Society President. The last week and a half have been crazy, overwhelming, terrifying, and yet through it all I have felt the spirit of the Lord, helping me and guiding me each step of the way. I am counting on that to continue! lol

I typed up my feelings as I went throughout the last several days and have just posted them in my blog, feel free to visit there to hear more about this experience so far.

I still feel scared and overwhelmed, but I feel love and support from many of the people around me. I especially feel the love and support of my Heavenly Father and I am putting all of my faith and trust in Him right now. I know that is the only way I can ever hope to fulfill this calling. I know that though my best could never be enough, He can do all things and He can make my best enough. :)

Hello Everyone

2008-02-14T13:49:00.000-08:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Chad Reed <pheonix8472@hotmail.com>
Date: Thu, Feb 14, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Subject: family ties

HELLO EVERYONE,

    IT HAS BEEN AWHILE SINCE I HAVE WRITTEN FAMILY TIES. THIS IS CHAD BY THE WAY! SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED SINCE LAST I WROTE. I ALMOST DONT KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN. WELL I AM STILL LIVING IN THE HEART OF DOWNT TOWN BUT THAT WILL BE CHANGING AS OF NEXT MONTH. JASON AND I HAVE FOUND AN AMAZING PLACE JUST OUT OF THE CITY. IT IS THIS GREAT TOWN HOUSE THAT IS THREE STORIES. IT HAS TWO BEDROOMS AND TWO BATHS AND A FULL TWO CAR GARAGE. IT WILL BE SO NICE TO HAVE ALOT MORE ROOM. JASON IS FILMING A MOVIE AND WE NEED MORE SPACE FOR THE GREEN SCREEN.
    OH YA FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO DONT HAVE MYSPACE OR I HAVE NOT SPOKEN WITH YET, JASON AND I ARE GETTING HITCHED. WELL NOT LEGALLY BUT THE CONCEPT IS THE SAME. IT WAS OUR SIX MONTH ANNIVERSARY THIS LAST WEEKEND AND WELL, I POPPED THE QUESTION. HE SAID YES OF COURSE. THE DETAIL ARE TO BE ANNOUNCED. WE ARE STILL DECIDING WHEN AND WHERE BUT WE ARE THINKING A MID SUMMER BEACH CEREMONY. I KNOW MANY OF YOU WONT ATTEND DUE TO RELIGIOUS DIFFERENCES BUT THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE TO, PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
    SO LET ME TELL YOU A BIT ABOUT JASON. HE AND I MET SIX MONTHS AGO ON MY VACATION BACK FORM HAWAII. AS YOU MIGHT HAVE GUESSED I DIDNT END UP GOING BACK. WE HAVE SPENT EVERYDAY SINCE WE MET TOGETHER AND IT HAS BEEN GREAT. HE RECENTLY THREW ME A SURPRISE B-DAY PARTY AND A LOCALL KERIOKE BAR. WE HAD A BLAST. I ENDED UP SINGING UNTIL I COULDNT ANY MORE. SADLY THE NIGHT DIDNT NOT END WELL. AFTER RECIEVING A CALL FROM MY FAMILY SAYING THEY WERE NOT COMING, I DECIDED TO POUND DOWN THE DRINKS. NEEDLESS TO SAY IT ENDED IN A HOSPITAL VISIT WITH ME NON-RESPONSIVE AND MY BEST FRIEND SLAPPING ME IN THE FACE SO HARD I BRUISED, WHILE TRYING TO WAKE ME UP. ALL IN ALL NOT A BAD BIRTHDAY LOL.
    SO I AM HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE THAT BOTH CHELSIE AND SARAH ARE EXPECTING. THEY ARE ABOUT A MONTH APART AND WILL BE DUE THIS SUMMER. THIS WILL BE CHELSIES SECOND CHILD AND SARAHS FIRST. WE ARE ALL SO EXCITED. OUR FAMILY IS GROWING SO FAST. SAMANTHA IS DOING WELL. SHE HAS BEEN A LITTLE SICK THIS WINTER BUT IS STARTING TO DO BETTER. SHE CONTINUES TO DO VERY WELL IN SCHOOL. SHE RECENTLY GOT OUT OF THE HOSPITAL. SHE CAUGHT THE NASTY BUG THAT WENT AROUND AND WAS ALLEGIC TO THE MEDICATION. SHE BROKE OUT IN RED SPOTS AND HAD A FEVER THAT WOULD NOT GO AWAY. I ENDED UP GOING AND PLAYING CARDS WITH HER FOR HOURS. LITTLE QUIN IS NOT SO LITTLE ANY MORE. SHE IS THREE AND VERY TALL FOR HER AGE. SHE HAS RECENTLY DISCOVERED THE GAME APPLES TO APPLES AND WANTS TO PLAY IT ALL THE TIME. SHE IS VERY EXCITED TO HAVE A NEW SIBLING. SHE THINKS IT WILL BE A GIRL. SHE EVEN NAMED HER KIA LYNN. IN FACT SHE TOLD CHELSIE SHE WAS PREGNANT. FUNNY HUH. TAYLOR IS DOING WELL. HE IS READING ALOT AND HE IS STARTING TO LOSE WEIGHT. HE IS DETERMINED TO BE AS SMALL AS ME WHEN HE COMES BACK TO PORTLAND. MOM AND MATTHEW ARE DOING WELL. THEY ARE LOOKING TO INVEST IN STOCKS AND BONDS, BUT FRANKLY THAT IS ALL OVER MY HEAD.
    BASICALLY THAT IS WHAT I AM UP TO. I HOPE ALL YOU GUYS ARE DOING WELL AND I REALLY THINK WE SHOULD PLAN TO ALL GET TOGETHER. LIFE IS TO SHORT TO SPEND IT AWAY FROM LOVED ONES. IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE A WEDDING OR DEATH IN THE FAMILY TO GET US ALL TOGETHER! ALL MY LOVE.

CHADWICK

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You are invited...

2008-01-28T17:54:00.000-08:00

To Acadia's very first piano recital!

Date: Saturay, January 26, 2008
Time: 11:00 am

What? That's past? Oh, well then let me take you back in time to the moment when Acadia made her musical debut. Keep arms and legs inside until we've come to a full and complete stop (and make sure the sound on your computer is on!)...

We are very proud of her! She was bummed that she made a couple of mistakes but I told her that every single person made some mistakes and what is important is that she kept going! I thought she did a great job!

(Incidentally, at the very beginning she is introducing the pieces she is about to play. The camcorder didn't do a very good job picking that up.)

After all of the performers played their pieces, their teacher presented the prize to the student(s) who had the most stickers. (Each week that a student does all of their practicing and completes the theory work and any other assignments she has given them, they get a sticker. She keeps track and the student with the most, wins.) There was a tie and Acadia was one of the winners! The winners get little mini busts of music composers and there are several different ones, so as they continue to win, they will add more to their collection. Acadia got Haydn today and it is already proudly displayed on her desk in her bedroom.

After the recital, which fortunately Ryan was able to take a long lunch for to attend, we took her out to lunch and let her choose the location. She chose "Boffin' Bo's", otherwise known as Boppin' Bo's. ;) It was yummy and I was really good, just ordering a cup of soup and a dinner salad... oh, and a milkshake - but I didn't get a huge sundae and a greasy sandwich and fries like I normally would! lol Ryan had to rush back off to work so he left while the girls and I paid. When we got to the car to come home, there was a beautiful bouquet of flowers on Cadi's seat with a note from her Daddy. :) I hope to get a picture of Ryan and Acadia with the flowers, but for now, this will have to do.

I am really so proud of Acadia! She is doing so well with the piano, she really seems to have a natural talent for it and I'm so glad that she enjoys it so much and WANTS to play. I was also very proud of how she handled performing today! She wasn't really very nervous, a little, but not super. I think I would have been far more nervous than she seemed to be! I'm glad that she is getting this experience and I hope that as she continues down this path that she will also continue to perform and share her talents with others.

An Update on Our Girls

2008-01-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

Acadia has been very excited about a class party that she and her classmates earned today. She has posted in her blog about it, so go check that out. :) Today should be a really fun day at school, and not just because of the party! They start with Sharing Time (every Friday, but will be first thing this time because of the other things going on too), then have Art Appreciation (I think this is usually once a month, one of the student's aunt is a professional artist and comes in to do fun projects with them.), they also have P.E., and then there is the class party! She wanted her hair wavy and this is how it turned out...

She needed me to take a picture of her doing something for an art project today so we took a pic of her playing the piano...

Last night, Rori was playing on an exercise mat and literally, every 15-20 seconds or so, came up to me to give me a kiss. She was kissing whatever she could get, I did try to give her a kiss but sometimes she'ld just settle for my hand or arm. Then she would wave and say, "bye-bye" as she went back to the mat. lol When she was on the exercise mat, she looked like she was trying to do the splits! She would stand up and then let her feet slide apart until she fell down on her bum. lol

Last week, I found her with some chocolate candy she wasn't supposed to have.

She loves music and has lately been spending a lot of time just looking through this hymnal, sometimes "singing" along.

Winter in Oregon

2008-01-16T07:41:00.000-08:00

It is clear and sunny with blue skies here lately.......with that comes colder weather.......down to freezing this morning. Delaying our morning walk until the sun is out a few hours.

Jeff is off on his volunteer job.......he drives the Friends of Florence van to Eugene and Springfield, once or twice a month, taking patients to their radiation sessions. He used the van when he needed it and is happy to help them by being one of their drivers now. Most days he is working out in his shop on furniture........
I resumed my cashiering one shift a week at the humane society thrift store here in Florence......it gets me out of the house a little and helps support the animal shelter. We haven't been doing any ceramics since September......our business client in Eugene was not paying us on time or communicating very well, so we said the little money we were making was not worth the stress !!!! I may do a craft show this year sometime.

They opened the permanent hotel and casino, Three Rivers, here and we will now have some top entertainers......we are going to see Michael Bolton on Monday evening.

Jeff is flying to Phoenix for two weeks next Wednesday to visit his Mother and brother......I leave for Spain and Portugal at the end of March.....all else is going very well here.....

ROBIN & JEFF

Vancouver is Twisted!

2008-01-11T21:42:00.000-08:00

Here is a copy of a post in my personal blog called "Twist and Shout":

Okay, not so much shouting... but a heck of a lot of twisting!!!

Today started out pretty good. Ryan was staying home from work, sick. That part wasn't good but it was nice that he'd be around. Rori woke up doing great! She had been sick yesterday but she slept soundly for over 12 hours last night and I think that really helped her. I had a little headache, but other than that I felt great!

To give Ryan some quiet time to rest, Rori and I headed out to run errands. It was so nice and warm! We just wore sweatshirts and enjoyed our shopping. On the way back home, coming up from Portland, I saw some big, dark clouds over Vancouver. "Joy", I thought. Then I saw lightening - and a lot of it! Multiple strikes shooting straight down at the same time. Wow! If Ryan hadn't been sleeping, I would have called home to tell him because he loves a good lightening storm. I remember wishing I had my camera with me (as if I could have 1) taken a picture while driving, and 2) would have actually gotten a shot of the actual lightening strikes, lol).

Shortly after I got home, I saw that I had missed a call from my friend on my cell phone (Thanks for turning my ringer down without telling me, Honey!) so I called her back. "Oh, I was just calling to tell you about the tornados," she told me.

"WHAT?!?!? What tornados? Here???"

"Oh yeah!" She told me that we were under a tornado warning and that at least one had touched down, here in Vancouver! She saw that my car wasn't home and tried to call to let me know. Thankfully, I had been south instead of north, since that is where it had ended up going.

I should have turned the news on right then, I'm sure we had continual coverage seeing as how we NEVER get real tornados. We've had funnel clouds before, heck I've seen funnel clouds here... but we never get real, honest to goodness, categorized tornados. But by this time, my headache had turned into a migraine and I was in bad shape, and that was more important,so I just went to bed while Ryan watched Rori for me.

I finally got up about half an hour ago (my head still hurts but it's not as bad as before, thanks for asking ;) lol) and turned on the news. Sure enough, an F1 tornado touched down in Vancouver in at least 3 different locations. It's winds were 86-110 mph, the path was 2 miles long and 1/4 mile wide. Fortunately for us, it was all west and north of us. Unfortunately for those in those areas, thousands are out of power still because of it. :( There are a lot of home movies and pictures coming in, some are pretty impressive!

Acadia shared with us (maybe I'll have her post it in her blog too) that they were out at their lunch recess when the teachers started to yell at them to run inside. She said they were "herding" them and yelling, "Run, run, run!" She said she and her friends were thinking, "This must be serious, they NEVER tell us to run!" They were first guessing that their school was under "lock-down" but once inside, they were instructed to get on the ground with their heads on the floor and their hands over their heads, an exercise they've practiced before in "tornado drills", and they were told that there was a tornado in the area. She told me that a friend of hers was crying and I asked if she (Cadi) had been scared, she said yes. She said it kind of hurt to stay in that position, too. (I bet!) But she said that afterwards, the teachers talked to them about what had happened and assured them that the tornado had ended up being on the other side of town, but that they had needed to stay in that position just in case and kind of as another practice. I told her that since tornados are so unpredictable, it was really important for everyone to be careful because they can change directions and move so fast, you never know where they'll go next.

Fortunately, there have been no real injuries from the tornado but there has been a bit of damage. There was a boat house completely destroyed on Vancouver Lake, 90% the boats were destroyed too, it looks like. And there are lots of trees totally ripped out of the ground in the areas that were hit (several falling on cars or homes), as well as a lot of roofs stripped of their shingles, some with even the plywood torn off. (Mom, the pictures made me think of your house this weekend, the pictures from the air showed homes with large sections of just wood exposed and people were rushing to get tarps put over them before it got dark since we're expecting rain for the next few days still.) I don't envy them - especially since we JUST got our new roof put on!

Since no one got hurt, some of the stories that are coming out because of this are pretty entertaining. One man was working in some sort of construction, went to use the port-a-pot and as he was in it, the outhouse was lifted up and toppled over! Luckily, the guy had just been "finishing up" and was just "tossed" out the door before anything "unpleasant" got on him! (This guy headed home from work only to find a tree had fallen on his house! Double whammy, poor guy!) Other construction workers were digging a ditch when the tornado went right for them, they had to dive into the ditch they were digging to stay safe. One business put this on their billboard today, "Auntie Em It's a twister!" lol

So that was our excitment today! A tornado right here in Vancouver, WA!

Come on, Baby! Let's do the twist...

Acadia also posted a short blog about it, visit her blog to read it. I've posted other random posts in my blog (I try to post regularly.) in the last week too, some include pictures of the girls. :)

Acadia's Blog

2008-01-08T10:48:00.000-08:00

Acadia has started her own blog. If you're interested in knowing what an 8 year old writes about in her blog, check it out! She named it after her favorite song right now, Nobody's Perfect (by Hannah Montana, her favorite singer). Her posting name is "lilangrygirl" which is the name she uses when she plays Star Wars on the xbox. lol

Here is a link to Cadi's Blog.

A Christmas Story

2007-12-27T08:16:00.000-08:00

I posted this on my blog and thought I'd copy and paste it here. It includes pics from our time at with Kris, Jeff, Adam, Alisha, Scott, BABY AYVA!!!, Mike, and Debi. You should be able to scroll over most of the pics to get a caption...

Chapter One: Christmas Eve

First of all, Acadia ended up feeling much better on Sunday and fortunately, her friend felt better on Monday. Whew! :)

On Christmas Eve, our good friends came over for dinner. We wanted to share our annual Christmas Eve dinner with them and it was so nice! The kids were really well behaved and we enjoyed having a quiet night. We ate our usual: cheese, crackers, shepherd's loaf of bread, summer sausage, grapes, apples, olives, cider, et. We sat on the floor on blankets and watched the short 5 minute Nativity video that the church came out with a few years ago. Then we finished up our last day of our advent calendar where Cadi puts another part of the nativity scene on the magnet board and we read some scritures, a poem, and sing a Christmas Hymn. Of course, the last piece was the Baby Jesus so that was perfect! Afterwards, we let the kids play a little and the adults visited for a bit. It was a really nice night. :)

After our friends left, we put Rori down for bed and Acadia got to play Santa's Helper for her first time! She helped stuff Rori's stocking and set up a toy set for her. She stayed up watching Christmas with the Kranks with us and finally we kicked her off to bed so Santa could come for her. ;)

Ryan had told my aunt he'd bring a cheesecake to dinner on Christmas and he waited to start it until then, so he was up pretty late! (But the cheesecake turned out really good! lol)

Chapter Two: Christmas Morning

Christmas morning was so fun! The girls both woke up just before 7am. Ryan, who had only gotten to bed at 3:30, was so sweet and patient! He woke up and didn't even make the girls wait. He was ready by the time I had Rori changed and we all headed out to see what Santa had brought. It was so fun to see Rori experience Christmas - she loved everything! She especially loved the Backyardigans playset that I won a few weeks ago! :) Even though she would stop and check out other gifts that she got, she kept coming back to this one. I'm so glad we won it! lol

Here are some fun pics:

First, Ryan and Rori in matching Christmas Gifts (apparently, mine is coming - they couldn't find my size in the stores so we're ordering it. I'm super excited, I was hoping to get one!!!)

And here is Rori playing with a few of her favorite toys:

I have to admit that the kitties were almost a gift for me! lol I got them because I wanted them! And once they were opened, they spent a lot of time on MY lap! lol These cats are so cool, they respond to your touch, they meow, purr, move, and the mom even kneads her paws when she's super content! Finally, we have cats at our house that won't kill Ryan or Cadi (allergies)! :)

Cadi had a great Christmas too! Santa brought her a bathrobe (what she wanted most!) so she wore it the rest of the morning. She also loved a little stuffed hamster that Santa brought. Two years ago, we gave Cadi a hamster for Christmas and she named her Angel. Angel died earlier this year, but this new little Angel won't ever die. :)

Cadi also got some Littlest Pet Shop toys, which she had really wanted.

Ryan spent at least 2 nights out searching for this sweatshirt - he went to at least 3 malls! We knew she wanted it but it took awhile to find it. It's a little big but that means she'll get to grow into it. ;)

And how can I leave out this? Cadi LOVES Hannah Montana! She got the 2 disc CD and a t-shirt... and her Aunt Debi gave her this...

Ryan got many things football: a jersey, a Patriots gift set, a Patriots football, an official NFL football, etc. He did get a few things not football related, but that did seem to be the major theme this year. He wasn't complaining!

I got a super cute bracelet that Cadi made for me, a couple really good books, some great cds, and a leather jacket! I am also promised a Brady jersey. :D (Now Cadi will be the only one without one, but she doesn't like football and doesn't want a jersey. So we're not wasting the money! lol)

Here are some more random pics from our morning...

Chapter Three: A White Christmas

Living in the Northwest, you don't really expect to have a white Christmas. You can hope for it, but you just don't expect it. The chance of getting one is about 1%. Of course, as the holiday approached, we watched the forecast hoping it would show snow but all we saw was rain. Then, on Christmas Eve, I heard a weather report say 80% chance of snow in the afternoon! I hardly believed it! But sure enough...

Chapter Four: Fun with the Family

After we opened presents and chatted on the webcam with Ryan's parents back East, we got dressed and went to my aunt's house. They gets a lot more snow than we do! Here are some pics...

It was nice and warm in their house though! We had a delicious dinner! And it was fun to visit. My cousin was there with her brand-new baby girl! Ayva Belle was only one week old - exactly! She was so sweet!

We had fun playing there, too. Cadi loved playing ping pong.

There was a huge snowball fight after dinner! Unfortunately, I don't have pics. :( But I do have pics of Rori tackling Ryan...

Cadi was cold after playing in the snow and she wanted Ryan to wrap her up in a blanket, so he did...

It was a really nice Christmas and we really enjoyed every moment of it! I hope you all had a great Christmas, too! :)

The End

Picture a Christmas

2007-12-17T11:15:00.000-08:00

I have been posting on my blog but I think I've decided to post at least some of those posts here too, that way those who don't regularly frequent blogs other than this will still get our updates. :) So, here are a BUNCH of photos I just posted on my blog from the last couple of weeks...

I LOVE this time of year! We have so many fun traditions and activities! One of our favorite, newer traditions is attending the annual Festival of the Nativities that our stake hosts each year. I think this is their 6th year and every year it seems to get bigger and bigger, better and better. Here are some pictures from our experience this year (pictures taken two weeks ago):

First of all, we went on Sunday so we were still in our church clothes, we don't usually "dress up" to go to the nativities, it just worked out that way this time.

This room is the "Home Sweet Home" room, they make it look like you're in someone's home. It's cozy and warm and they have the cutest nativities in it!

The cultural hall has hundreds of different nativities set up. There are so many different kinds! Elegant, unique, international... It takes awhile to look at them all!

After we look at all of the displayed nativities (over 600 in all!), we go to the Children's rooms. It's the girls' reward for being patient and well-behaved in the other rooms. In the children's room, there are hand-on, kid-friendly nativities. Finally nativities we can touch and play with! Rori just loved running around (surprise, surprise!), Cadi liked dressing up and getting pictures at the stable.

And finally, before we left, we visited Joseph's Workshop where Cadi made a little decoration (Jesus in a manger) and colored a picture.

Last weekend, we visited our good friends in Idaho. This is another tradition. When we lived in Idaho, we became such close friends and since most of us didn't have family close by, we started celebrating holidays together. Now that we've all spread out a little bit and don't get to see each other as much, we make an effort to visit at least every Christmas season and have our annual Christmas Party. It's ALWAYS a blast! We keep adding more and more kids, so it's getting bigger and bigger every year - but that just means more fun, right? Here are some pics:

We started this gift exchange when there was only one kid in the group. Now we have a kids' gift exchange and an adult exchange. The stories are usually pretty fun - about Riley Right. Left, right, right, left, and... LOTS OF LAUGHTER!

The next day, on our way to church, we stopped by the Twin Falls, ID temple. It is almost finished and should be operating sometime in the next year!

Later that night, we read the scriptures about Christ's birth and let the children act it out. This is always pretty entertaining. No one dressed up to play their part this year... except for Sleeping Beauty. ;)

And that brings us to THIS past weekend! Friday night we went to our ward Christmas party. The children did a great job on the Nativity...

And finally, here are some random pics from the last few weeks...

Rori LOVES playing with the Fisher Price Nativity set...

And now that we have our front room finished, I actually get to put up a tree in our front window! We have a tree in our family room that is fun and has all our ornaments that contain lots of special memories but the front room tree is my "pretty tree". I like how it turned out...

Was that enough photos? We hope you are enjoying your holiday season as much as we are! :)

I am not good at Christmas letters.- Barbara

2007-12-14T20:53:00.000-08:00

If you already read my blog , there is nothing new here. But, here goes - our year "in brief" - but not nearly brief enough:

One of the first things I did this year was wreck my car. Early one dark morning in an empty parking lot, I slammed into a cement standard which probably, maybe will someday hold a light, but right then just totaled my car. My credit union gave me a loan and I bought another Cavalier because I had liked Jade so much. Sadly, Goldie isn’t quite the car Jade was, but it gets us around and that’s the main thing.

In February, Glen moved out and signed the house over to me. Again, my credit union gave me a loan. So, having filed for divorce to protect myself from debt, I immediately put myself into debt and felt pretty happy about it.

We have enormous amounts of work to do on the house. It is as old as I am and even more decrepit, having been almost totally neglected for 30+ years. I have no idea where to begin and am reluctant to incur even more debt, so thus far, there has been little to no progress. There are always plenty of other things to occupy us and enable procrastination, that’s for sure.

Andrew led Troop 40 in collecting and sorting over 1500 books which he delivered to Books for the Barrios to be distributed to poor Filipino schools. Later he added carload of books that he collected after the official project. That was his Eagle project and completed his requirements for Eagle - except for preparing his application and Eagle book to the satisfaction of our District Eagle Advancement Chairman. It took several courageous visits to the lair of the bear to accomplish the task - just a couple of days before the deadline of his 18th birthday! Oh, then he had to pass a Board of Review, but that was easy compared to passing the chairman! We are proud that Andrew persevered and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. On the way to his Eagle Court of Honor and "After Party" in September, Andrew helped an old man who stumbled crossing a busy street and had us drive him safely home.

The boys and I drove up to Vancouver to be at my granddaughter Acadia's baptism in June. We enjoyed a wonderful weekend - visiting, celebrating Cadi's birthday, and participating in her baptism. She was radiant and the spirit was strong. It is a joy to see her growing into such a lovely young lady.

We are so blessed to live "almost next door" to Tom, Ruth and the kids. The uncles sometimes babysit for them. Tom helps us around the house - like replacing our front door and other helpful things. I get to do Stampin'Up with Ruth now and then. And it is just nice knowing they are there. It is so good to have them close by!

We enjoy Sunday dinners usually at Ruth’s house with Debi and Miriam a couple of times a month and get together for most birthdays and holidays. Lucky me!

Ben had great fun on a trip to Disneyland this summer with his cousin Adam and aunts Kris and Lainee, mostly courtesy of Aunt Lainee. (Thank you! ) We both survived him flying alone. He got to know his cousin and aunts a little better. They all had a terrific time.

My divorce was final August 22. There are some things I don't know when I will really get used to. Being solely responsible for my home. Being divorced in such a family, marriage oriented faith. Knowing that my children have to explain things to their children that don't fit what we teach about "families can be together forever". Not being at home. Still, it is more good than not. I have had the witness of the spirit that this is the course I must take. The boys and I are happier. Home feels more like home. I feel peaceful.

Apparently it is working out well for Glen, too. He started attending the church singles activities when the divorce became final and by Thanksgiving he was engaged. I am told it will be a short engagement. Ingrid seems like a nice lady.

Over the Thanksgiving holidays we had all my children together. Not for Thanksgiving itself, as Ruth and Tom were hosting his family. Debi had the rest of us over to her new home Thanksgiving Day where, despite the turkey being HOURS late, we had a lovely time and a delicious dinner. The siblings (my children and their spice - plural of spouse?) had a couple of sibling get togethers over Thanksgiving weekend. We all enjoyed an afternoon at Fairytale Town. I relished having all my children in one place, a feat not readily accomplished any more.

I have been working at the California Department of Parks and Recreation Business and Fiscal Services for a year now. Although I deeply miss being at home, I am constantly aware that the Lord really blessed me with this job. From the convenience of having my office right by the light rail line, to the wonderful boss, the pleasant co-workers, the opportunities to learn (I have taken 2 Accounting classes courtesy of the state and am signed up for another one next semester), and my nice work station, I am truly blessed.

For a brief time, work was even nicer. I had had the boys come downtown with me - to map my office (they did a wonderful job! the map and index they made for me has been very helpful) and to enjoy the annual opening of the downtown ice rink. They also helped out with little office odd jobs. After that, Joseph came in nearly every day for about a month and a half as an unofficial, unpaid worker. He had his own cubicle and never lacked for work. My unit loved having him. He liked getting the work experience. Unfortunately, "management" got worried about liability and put an end to his unofficial job. Even though we hardly saw each other during the work day, knowing he was there made the office feel even better to me. I miss him now.

At the end of September, my world was rocked when our Stake (comparable to a diocese) was reorganized. My ward (congregation) was dissolved. The remaining 6 wards were realigned and re-organized. So really all 7 wards were dissolved and 6 new wards created. It has been an emotional time, but our new ward, Perkins Ward, is beginning to feel like home, too. We no longer meet in our beloved building at 51st and Dover, and I miss it! but, Perkins Ward is growing into a real ward family. With the reorganization I was without a church calling for a month or so. I was beginning to feel like a non-person and wondered if being divorced had anything to do with it. Then they asked me to serve on the Ward Activities Committee and to be the Cub Scout Cub Committee Chairman. As a parent, I am also on the Scout Committee. I am making lots of Scouting noise and hoping to help make a positive difference in boy's lives. I am a little concerned about Scouting in my new ward, but I am going to try to help make it work. Also, I still nag "my" Life Scouts from old Troop 40, my fledglings. I like Eagle Courts of Honor.

I am thankful for the many blessings in my life - not least of which the many wonderful people who have blessed my life. I think of you, thank God for you and pray for your welfare. I am sorry that I do not manage to spend actual time with you!

Merry Christmas! Celebrate the birth of our Saviour with joy and thankfulness. I really love the baby Jesus, but it is the adult Jesus, an innocent man allowing Himself to be tormented for my sins; the most powerful being in the universe submitting to the torture and mockery of weak, ignorant and sinful men, an immortal God willingly dying a cruel death, and then rising triumphant so I can live again that I worship. May you feel of His Spirit and His love at Christmas and throughout the coming year.

Early Christmas Gift

2007-12-13T18:28:00.000-08:00

We feel as though we've just received an early Christmas gift! The gift of "family" and the gift of "time". Just put those two together! :) Ryan has been offered a promotion in his company that will allow him to be on a more family-friendly schedule. It will make so many things easier for us! We will have weekends together for piano recitals and trips to the beach, Friday nights available for dates and ward activities, and most weeknights we'll have dinner together and Ryan will get to tuck his girls in bed.

His current shift, which he has had for years, has been really nice in some ways and it has been the best option he's had for the position he's in. It gave him 3 and 4 day weekends every week, he commuted less, and received OT every workday. But for the 3 or 4 days that he worked, he didn't see his girls at all. He would leave before they woke up and come home after they went to bed. And the only day he and Cadi BOTH had off from work or school was Sunday since Ryan worked every Saturday. That has made it difficult for us to have much family time.

We are very grateful for this opportunity for Ryan to grow in his company and also for us to spend more time together as a family! Congratulations, Ryan... so, when are you taking me out? ;)

I want addresses!!!

2007-12-01T13:04:00.000-08:00

Hello family that I love!

I am preparing to mail out Christmas cards, as I'm sure many of you are, and I'd like to get some current addresses from you! If you have 1) moved, 2) married, or 3) somehow managed to keep your address from moves prior to this year from me, PLEASE e-mail me your address (and if applicable, your new last name). This counts for even those of you who THINK I have your info (Like you locals and even some of my siblings! lol) - better safe than sorry! And if anyone needs mine, please let me know and I'll be happy to get it to you.

My e-mail address is stamperscandles@yahoo.com. I'd LOVE to know where to send you a card! :)

Thank you!!!

Sariah

Do you have Lainee's contact information?

2007-11-20T09:59:00.001-08:00

Nothing special. Today is the anniversary of the dedication of the Billings Montana Temple. Montana makes me think of Lainee. I was going to just say Howdy, but I realize I don't have her email address or snail mail address, and I am not too sure about whether I have a good phone number. Too busy to check right now, isn't that bad!

Lainee, wherever you are, I love you.

(the rest of you, too)

Thanks,

love,

Barbara

from Kathie and Esque

2007-11-16T08:36:00.001-08:00

We almost missed the deadline because I'm just too tired after a full day on-line. SO glad to know that our family newsletter is still moving forward. How is everyone? We hope and pray that you are all well, happy, and safe.

We cannot believe our luck with cars this past 18 months. Remember the accident in January 2006? Well, there was a bigger accident in July 2007. Our car was raked from stem to stern on the passenger side of the 1991 Cressida, when a woman backed down her driveway into oncoming traffic. Fortunately, Esque's injuries were minor, as he was driving the car. I wasn't in the car, as he had dropped me off at the office a few minutes earlier. We had the car repaired and were planning to drive it a few more years. That is, until Halloween. We were headed to Sacramento City College, stopped near the intersection of 19th and Q Streets, waiting for the light rail to pass.

WHAM! We were hit by another vehicle on the passenger side, back door/tire area. MAJOR damage. And, the driver, after inspecting the damage she caused, fled the scene. Poor little car cannot be repaired. It's now worth $167, according to AAA. Funny/sad thing, the tires (which have fewer than a year's worth of driving on them) and rims are worth a cool $1,500 - $2,000. Such is life. We were driving the 1985 Toyota pick-up but not feeling too safe. Purchased a 2007 Honda Accord and, with airbags everywhere, are now back on the road again.

Work is going well for me. Being a Manager is such an adventure. Thank goodness Esque understands when I get grumpy, frustrated, too tired to do housework... He's a gem. His 76th birthday will be 12/28/07 and we'll be celebrating with our English buddies, who are coming to town in early December. Hooray!

Esque is keeping in shape by riding our stationery (or is it stationary) bike and walking most mornings. Touch wood, we'll make it safely through the next few weeks and begin a new year without incident. Touch wood.

We send you love and best wishes for a peaceful and joyous holiday season.

MUCH LOVE,

Aunt Kathie & Uncle Esque

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WOW IT'S BEEN AWHILE

2007-11-14T19:59:00.001-08:00

IT HAS BEEN SO LONG SINCE I HAVE WRITTEN FAMILY TIES. I WAS NOT SURE IT STILL EXISTED UNTIL I GOT THIS RANDOM E-MAIL FROM BARB. SO WHERE TO BEGIN......THERE IS A LOT TO CATCH UP ON.

WELL MY LIFE HAS BEEN THROUGH A LOT OF CHANGES OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS. I HAVE MOVED TO HAWAII, ANNOUNCED I WAS GAY, LOST OVER 100 LBS AND GAVE UP ON ORGANIZED RELIGION. ARE YOU SHOCKED YET? OH BUT WAIT THERE IS MORE. SO IN JANUARY ON 05 IT WAS MY BIRTHDAY WHEN I DECIDED TO WEIGH MYSELF. TO MY OWN HORROR I DISCOVERED I HAD HIT 250 LBS. SOME HOW IT SPAWNED INTO A COMPETITION BETWEEN TAYLOR, MY MOM AND I. WE HAD SIX MONTHS TO LOSE AS MUCH WEIGHT AS WE COULD AND AT THE END, THE WINNER WOULD RECEIVE TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR NEW CLOTHES. AFTER HEARING TAYLOR TELL MY SISTER THAT I WOULD NEVER WIN, I GOT ANGRY AND CHANNELED THAT INTO MY WORK OUTS. FOR ONE HOUR A DAY, SIX DAYS A WEEK FOR SIX MONTHS I RAN, AND RAN AND RAN. AT THE FINAL WEIGH IN I HAD DROPPED 70 LBS, MOM HAD LOST 30 LBS AND TAYLOR HAD GAINED 5 LBS. SO YA I WON WITH FLYING COLORS.

SO SKIP AHEAD TO THIS JANUARY, I HAD GOTTEN VERY SICK. SO MUCH SO THAT I ALMOST LOST MY LIFE. IT WAS NOT UNTIL I WENT TO MY PARENTS HOUSE LOOKING LIKE DEATH WARMED UP THAT MY MOM RUSHED ME TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE I STAYED FOR TWO WEEKS. IT TOOK ALMOST A MONTH TO RECOVER. NOT FUN!!!!!

AFTER RECOVERING FROM MY NEAR DEATH DRAMA, I CAME TO A VERY HUGE DECISION IN MY LIFE. I DECIDED TO STOP LYING TO MYSELF AND MY FAMILY. SO I FINALLY TOLD THEM I WAS GAY. ITS FUNNY HOW ALMOST DYING REALLY PUTS THINGS INTO PERSPECTIVE, MY SIBLINGS TOOK IT VERY WELL BUT AS EXPECTED, MY PARENTS DID NOT (BIG SHOCKER). SO AFTER DROPPING A HUGE BOMB ON EVERY ONE I KNOW, I DECIDED TO MOVE TO HAWAII FOR A LITTLE BIT.

AS WE ALL KNOW JAY (A.K.A SPERM DONOR) IS LIVING IN HAWAII AND ASKED IF I WANTED TO MOVE OVER THERE. HE CLAIMED HE WANTED TO GET TO KNOW ME AGAIN BLAH BLAH BLAH. SO SINCE THINGS WE A LITTLE CRAZY IN PORTLAND I PACKED UP MY LIFE AND HEADED OVER TO THE BIG ISLAND. WHEN I ARRIVED I SAT AT THE AIRPORT WAITING FOR JAY FOR ABOUT AN HOUR. SO I MUST BE HONEST, ONE REASON I WENT TO HAWAII WAS TO SEE IF JAY HAD REALLY CHANGED HIS WAYS AND WANTED TO REBUILD HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH HIS KIDS. SADLY I WOULD FIND THAT IT IS A WASTE OF TIME. YOU CANT TEACH AN OLD DOG NEW TRICKS. I LIVED IN HAWAII FOR FOUR MONTHS AND WORKED AT THE FOUR SEASONS RESORT. I LOVED IT. I GOT TO MEET MANY CELEBS RANGING FROM KELSEY GRAMMER TO BRITTNEY SPEARS. ABOUT A MONTH INTO MY STAY ON THE BIG ROCK, JAY DECIDED TO TAKE VACATION TO THE MAINLAND. IT WAS ONLY SUPPOSED TO BE FOR TWO WEEKS. ABOUT A WEEK INTO HIS VACATION I GOT A CALL AT 4:30 AM TELLING ME HE WOULD NOT BE BACK FOR AT LEAST FIVE MONTHS. SO HERE I AM ON AN ISLAND NOT KNOWING ANYONE, AND THE MAIN REASON I WENT WAS NOW NOT COMING BACK. THAT WAS WHEN I MADE THE DECISION THAT I COULD NOT HAVE JAY IN MY LIFE. THERE IS ONLY SO MANY TIME YOU WANT TO THROW YOURSELF UNDER THE BUS. I DECIDED TO MOVE HOME BEFORE JAY GOT BACK TO THE ISLAND. SO IN AUGUST I MOVED BACK TO PORTLAND.

I LANDED AT MIDNIGHT ON AUGUST FIRST. WHEN I WALKED UP TO THE GATE MY FAMILY WAS WAITING. THE FUNNY THING IS THAT THEY DID NOT RECOGNIZE ME. I ALMOST WALKED RITE PAST THEM. I HAD DROPPED THIRTY MORE POUNDS AND NOW HAD A DEEP TAN.

I NOW LIVE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN AND WORK AT THE HOTTEST HOTEL IN PORTLAND. SINCE BEING BACK I HAVE MET SOME AMAZING PEOPLE. I LOVE THE STAFF I WORK WITH AT THE HOTEL LUCIA.

ONE WEEK AGO MY GRANDFATHER PASSED AWAY OF CANCER AND I HAVE BEEN GOING TO SERVICE AFTER SERVICE FOR HIM. MY FAMILY IS DOING WELL WITH HIS PASSING. I ALSO FOUND OUT ONE OF MY FAMILY MEMBERS WILL BE GONE FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS WITH ALMOST NO WAY TO CONTACT THEM. AND TO TOP IT OFF MY BOYFRIEND JASON HAS BEEN REALLY SICK AND I HAVE BEEN TAKING CARE OF HIM. SO THE LAST TWO WEEKS HAVE BEEN VERY CRAZY.

SO ABOUT MY FAMILY, SAMANTHA IS GROWING LIKE A WEED. SHE IS NOW IN HIGH SCHOOL AND IS GETTING STRAIGHT A'S. SHE IS GROWING INTO MUSIC VERY WELL. SHE LOVES TO SING AND SHE IS VERY GOOD AT IT. SARAH IS NOW ENGAGED AND WILL BE GETTING MARRIED. THATS JUST CRAZY. CHELSIE IS DOING GREAT. SHE WORKS AT A VERY HIP SALON. HER DAUGHTER QUINMREE IS GETTING SO BIG. SHE IS NOW THREE AND IS HAVING FULL CONVERSATIONS WITH EVERY ONE SHE MEETS. MOM AND DAD ARE DOING WELL. THEY FINISHED BUILDING THERE SHELBY COBRA. IT TOOK THEM TWO YEARS. TAYLOR, WELL HE IS DOING AS WELL AS TO BE EXPECTED.

I HOPE EVERY ONE IS DOING WELL. WE REALLY NEED TO ALL GET TOGETHER SOON. I AM THINKING REUNION THIS SUMMER? I CANT WAIT TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE ALL UP TO. SO UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN, HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND BEST WISHES.

LOVE,
CHAD

McKona Koffee is a Reality

2007-11-10T16:22:00.001-08:00

Since I know that Michael just isn't going to find the time to write about his new endeavor, I thought I'd let you all know that as of November 1, 2007, mcKona Koffee Roastery & Paradise Kafe (formerly Paradise Café) are now owned by Mike McGinness & Bruce Harrington.

Everything chaotic and crazy right now, especially since their big floor roaster hasn't been delivered yet and probably won't for another month, so Mike is having to do all the coffee roasting at home. Apparently the whole bean sales are going pretty good as people are discovering that they are carrying a variety of them, fresh roasted and packaged in 1 and 1/2 lb bags. They have their own label and a website the is working, but still under construction. Check it out a www.mckonakoffee.com. Still needs a lot of work, but they need to find someone that can work on it that has some knowledge of coffee.

Couple of my friends went down for lunch last week and said the sandwiches were really good. Big and satisfying and so was the red curry soup, which they only got a taste of because it was almost gone. They have a guy that makes scones and blueberry muffins, and get the rest of their baked goods, including the breads for their sandwiches from a local bakery up the street.

The only really bad thing we both get home late - after 6 for me and after 7 for Michael. I've had to take over fixing dinner again, which I got out of the habit of doing this past year. Got to learn to start planning ahead. Hate eating that late though. We'd gotten used to heating about 6:30 and now, sometimes it's almost 8 before we sit down. Some days, it's just too much, then it's Schwan's.

My big news is the I had my 30 year anniversary with Bonneville Power on Wednesday. I'm now eligible for full retirement. Can't even believe it. Of course, just starting a new business, it may be a while before I'll be able to actually do it, but just knowing that I could just up and retire at any time is sort of a nice feeling. With everything that's been happening with my job over the past couple years - and it's still going on - I could just get fed up one day, turn in my papers and leave. Lady in HR did that about 4 weeks ago. Just like that. Of course, I wouldn't do that to my co-workers. Besides, I want a BIG retirement party when I leave. Michael says a couple more years, which will go really fast the way things are going. Can't believe another year is almost gone.

So, that's the news. Need to go make some potato salad for dinner. I love hearing from everyone and like Robin wish everyone would write more often.

Love to all
Debi (and Mike in absencia)

The not-so-SLO life

2007-11-09T17:11:00.000-08:00

Teresa and I continue to be very busy. Teresa is now especially busy as she continues with her full-time job and has begun taking classes full-time at Cal Poly. She was admitted as a philosophy major during the summer term and completed one five-week course in the first half of the summer, but this fall has been her first full-time quarter. She is taking a humanities class comparing modern and classic culture, an ethics class, and a course on philosophical classics. Monday through Thursday all of her time is required by either work or school.

I changed my major from architecture to architectural engineering this quarter. While I continue to be interested in and appreciate the art of architecture, it is such a relief to not be constantly in search of creativity. As an ArcE major, I need more math and science courses, so this quarter I'm taking a math course for the first time in over a decade. Fortunately the math class, Differential Equations and Linear Algebra, has not been nearly as difficult as I thought it might be. I'm also taking a geology course, C programing for engineers, and several architectural engineering courses. At 17 units, this is the heaviest load I have taken at Cal Poly, but I'm doing pretty well with it (I might take 19 in the winter). Because this major is a 4 year program rather than the 5 year architecture, my anticipated graduation date is two quarters earlier than it was (now December 2009).

After living in Grover Beach a few miles south of here for our first year, we moved to San Luis Obispo to shorten our commute. We had a lovely studio attached to a home belonging to members of our church there and Teresa and our former land-lady have been friends since we first called to ask about the place. We are equally blessed in San Luis Obispo, renting a one-bedroom secondary unit in the back yard of the former bishop of the singles ward here. We are walking distance from school but in a neighborhood that is not overrun by college students. At nights on weekend you can hear that there are parties around outside, but none are too loud.

Mom came down to visit us with Joseph, Andrew, and Benjamin about a month ago. After they arrived on Saturday, we explored Port San Luis Obispo then roasted hot dogs and marshmallows on the beach. We also attended church, played games, and watched movies over the weekend. On Monday Teresa returned to work, I returned to school, and Mom and the brothers went to Monterey to visit the aquarium there. It was fun having visitors. If any of our other relatives want to visit us on the central coast of California, let us know.

The San Luis Obispo Stake is in the Los Angeles Temple district. In commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Los Angeles Temple, the First Presidency authorized each stake in the district to have a meeting in the assembly room of the temple. Our stake had our commemoration day a couple of weeks ago. Teresa's sister Amy also went through the temple for the first time that day, so it was extra special for us. The meeting in the assembly room was really neat. The temple president and his wife were especially glad to have our stake there because the are from our ward. A few members of our stake were in the temple district when the temple was dedicated. The temple matron, Sister Andrus, told us about her experience singing in a choir for one of the dedicatory sessions. We also heard some of the history of the temple from Pres. Andrus. While the Salt Lake temple has more floor space than the Los Angeles temple, no temple can accommodate more patrons in a single session. It was a wonderful day.

We're looking forward to the holidays. We will be in Sacramento for Thanksgiving again this year. We haven't nailed down Christmas plans, but are hoping to get together with Teresa's siblings; one of her brothers is working especially hard to get everyone together this Christmas. We love all of you and hope you have happy holidays and wish for a great start to 2008 for each of you.

I wish more of you would write ..........

2007-11-09T11:19:00.000-08:00

This is our Cody.......one of our three kids.....he is our busy rascal.

I have loved hearing from Barbara and Lainee but don't hear from the rest of the family much.

Retirement life is good for us........I continue my travels.......just got back from Beijing/Shanghai area of China......very interesting area.......high air pollution......don't know how the 2008 Olympics will do there. The Great Wall of China was shrouded in smog.

Robin

News From Kris and Co.

2007-10-17T19:39:00.000-07:00

Kris and Adam spent a great week in Disneyland with Lainee and Ben this summer!
(See pix of Adam)

Alisha and Scotty are expecting their first child "Ayva Belle" on December 13th! (See pix of prego Alisha & Scott)

Kris and Jeff are getting married on Saturday, November 24th!
(See pix of Us, Crazy in Love & So Happy)

Also joining our family is Jeff's son, Elder Justin Davich! (See pix of him, recently serving a mission in McAllen, Texas)

So, that's the news............... other than that not much happening around here.

Love to You All,

Jeff, Kris, Alisha, Scott, Justin and Adam

Roser Update

2007-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Family! We are doing well and we hope you are too!

Acadia has started 3rd grade and loves it! She has also started piano lessons and I am very impressed with how quickly she is learning it. She played the Can Can for her music class at school. She had forgotten her music at home so she played it by memory! She is now learning a two handed song. I'm proud of her and how well she is doing. :) She continues to take gymnastics as well. It makes for very busy Fridays since both piano lessons and gymnastics are after school on Fridays. But it's all good! :)

Acadia and I have been reading a lot together. In August we started reading the Harry Potter series and just finished the final book this weekend. It was fun to read together! It was fun for me to reread them. :) Now we need to decide what to read next!

Aurora is getting so big! She is now 14 months old! She has 4 teeth, almost 5. She is still getting into everything! And the stinker is getting smarter about it, too. hehe She is trying (unsuccessfully, thankfully) to climb over the baby gate! She loves music! She loves to "help" Big Sister play the piano. She dances whenever music comes on. It's fun. :)

We're working on reroofing our house right now. Unfortunately, the rain has finally returned at the same time. It will all work out though. Whatever Ryan doesn't get finished on his days off this week, he'll get done next week when his step-father comes up to help. :)

We're planning on driving down to SLC next weekend to attend General Conference. We're very excited! Now that Acadia is 8 years old, she can sit in the Conference Center and she is excited to see the prophet in person! It will be Ryan's first time being there for Conference, too.

In November, we have two trips planned. One short visit to Reno to see Ryan's East Coast parents when they go to visit Ryan's brother and family. And then our Thanksgiving trip to Sacramento. Last year, work trumped our Thanksgiving trip and we are hoping that doesn't happen again! *keep fingers crossed*

So there is a lot to look forward to! We love hearing about you guys, so keep posting! :)

Exciting Times

2007-09-29T19:09:00.001-07:00

Sorry we haven't kept in touch much. We've really have a LOT going on this summer. Well, not so much me right now, but Michael certainly does.

He is about to become a business owner. He is opening his own coffee roasting business along with a partner, Bruce. We finally managed to come up with at least enough of our part of the financing to get us started. We found this cute little espresso cafe in downtown Vancouver called Paradise Espresso and Deli by chance not long after Mike & Bruce decided to become partners. Mike and I went there to grab lunch. He was familiar with the place, having talked to the owner several times in the past about working there and helped him with some roasting. They serve sandwiches and of course coffee drinks. While we were there, the owners daughter, who was working behind the counter mentioned that her dad was selling the place. So Michael called him the next day and let him know he was interested. Of course, Bruce and his girlfriend were in Europe at the time, so Mike didn't know if he would be interested, but when he got back, they looked at a few other places, but decided on this one.

Michael and Bruce will continue the espresso cafe with a few changes, but the main focus of the business will be a coffee roastery that will focus on Kona coffee, though that won't be the only one they offer. This part of the business will be strictly a wholesale business if I understood correctly. Right now Michael just completed all the legal forms (rather than having a lawyer do them up). Michael is very good at that sort of thing you know. Now the seller, Phil, just needs to have his lawyer go over them. Tentatively they are looking to take over the business on November 1. Scary and exciting at the same time. Oh, the new name of the cafe will be McKona Koffee Paradise Kafe. Michael's moniker on the home roast list he's on is Mike McKona. So, stay tuned. More will be unveiled as things move forward.

As for me, I'm still working in Portland, and still wondering what I'm going to wind up doing when they disband our Admin group. Not sure where I'll wind up. We keep hearing rumors that the powers that be have placed us somewhere, but no ones telling us. Plus we're not sure when it will happen. Could be next week, or next month. Needless to say, it's just a little stressful. I'll be eligible for full retirement in November, but Michael says I'll probably have to stick it out a couple more years. BUT, I'm still going to have my retirement run to see how much my annuity would be. Who knows, maybe I could go sooner if it's enough.

We did take a little time out in August and made our annual trek to the Long Beach Kite Festival. It was great fun, visiting with our friends from Seattle, enjoying the beach, sand and of course the kites. If I can ever get Mike to download the pictures we took (I'm sort of inept at that), I'll post a couple of really interesting ones. We had pretty good weather overall, it rained some on the last Saturday, but not bad enough to bring the kites down. Unfortunately, when it got done raining, the wind died and everything came down anyway. Overall, it was very enjoyable. Taylor stayed at the house while we were gone to just look out for things. We boarded the kitty because he was taking medication and had a drain tube in his leg from an abscess we discovered the week before. He's doing fine now, though we still have to give him subcutaneous fluids everyday because of his kidney problem. Oh, I also took the next week off and just dinked around the house. I hated to go back to work.

We want to let you all know how much we love you all and hope that someday very soon, we can all get together again.

Love, hugs, and kisses

Debi & Mike

HOLY COW!!!!

2007-09-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Adam and Hana !!! Happy Birthday 2 you!!!!

Adam turned 4 on Monday the 10th and Hana turned 1 on the 11th!!! WEEEE!!!! WOW !!!! It is crazy how time flies!!!
LOVE YOU ALL!!!
AMANDA JACOB ADAM AND HANA

A good day!!!!

2007-08-28T21:53:00.001-07:00

We spent are last day of school brake all together having fun. we decided to get are photos taken the spar of the moment decision. Brian hadn't shave and I had worked all night. The girls got to go to Claire's to get clip on earrings and butterfly clips for there hair. They love to shop for these things. They had a blast posing for the camera, We acutely got a few great pitchers.

Brian has a new job that will have him home all most every night and weekend. I don't thing I could have handled him being away for days an end, and then home for a day or two. We are so blessed that this job came are way.
Time for tut tut so We will catch all you later
Marci

Pictures from Robin and Jeff

2007-08-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

I am going to try to post a couple of pictures.......the dogs are our pride and joys.......the 1938 Chev is what is keeping us busy in car shows this summer.

Hi! Its Sami!

2007-08-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I read my email from Barbara and thought that this was a really cool idea. So, I start school in about 2 and a half weeks (September 4th) and I am going into High school! Very nervous, but I'm sure it will be very fun! Anyways, not much is happening right now. Sarah is getting married sometime next year so thats exciting. Umm...I am starting singing lessons the first week of school and dance lessons sometime through this year! My dream is to go on Broadway, so I am setting my priorities for grade, colleges and what I do, very high! I have not seen a lot of you in a while, and I thought I would put a current picture of me. And congratulations Lanie and Marcy (sorry if I didn't spell your names correctly) on your new husbands and start on a new life! And I got a new puppy! Her name is Molly and she is about 1 year now (full grown and 4 pounds!) I love her to death!

It's about time!

2007-08-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

I don't know why it's taken quite this long to post a little about us, just busy I guess! Plus, I already post somewhat regularly (sometimes more regularly than others) in my blog.

Let's see... Acadia was baptized the beginning of summer! She was so excited! It was a great experience and I can't believe that I have a daughter old enough to make such important covenants! All of the Robarts (and Hinds) came up for the weekend and it was great to have everyone together... that doesn't happen very often anymore!

We haven't done a lot this summer. Ryan's work schedule was changed temporarily to night shift. It is only for the summer. Unfortunately, it has made it near impossible to do anything this summer. Even on the days he doesn't work, he is exhausted and sleeps half the day. So that leaves out any day trips. We did go to Seattle a week ago, just for two days. And sure enough, Ryan was so tired, he slept the first day while we were there. Never again - no more night shifts over summer vacation!

Aurora turned one at the end of July! She is doing really well! She had started walking the day before Mother's Day so now she's a pro! She also finally got her first teeth, just before her birthday. :) Her first word was "tickle" as she reached down and "tickled" her own feet. It was very cute!

Cadi will be starting 3rd grade this year! Wow. Time flies!!! We just recently redecorated her room. It was previously very PINK and all Disney Princess! Now, it is all horses! The top half is light blue, the bottom half is a light brown, and the chair rail, molding, doors, etc are white. We bought her a new desk to do her homework at. She asked if she would get a computer too... uh, no. lol

I'm afraid that is all that is going on here for now! I'll try to do better at updating here. But if you want more regular updates, check out my other blog. The link is in the sidebar to the right. :)

2007-08-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

What a grouch for being a sweet watermelon.

Family Brian and I are having a debate. I need your inset.
You see it is like this. Brian can't stand more than one person in the bathroom at a time. The girls spend countless time in there together playing, talking and at times using the potty. I say that it is bonding and all children especially girls do this. Me and my sisters did this and at times still do, with the exception of the potty thing. He just doesn't get it. What is your say on this matter .
I have been asked about are address. We might be moving down the road but for know it is,
505 S Delaware st Conrad MT 59425

We are doing great and the girls are getting use to a dad every day in the home. I hope that this will continue to improve as time go's by.

Rachels 6th Birthday and the cake she made. What a good job
she did. Ok I helped a Little.

Busy Summer in Florence, Oregon

2007-08-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying the summer months here in Oregon........summer is when all the car shows are held. We have been to many of them with our 1938 Chevy......we have won three different awards which is always fun.....at each show there are always many other fun activities going on at the same time.

We do alot of ceramic bisque for a ceramic paint-your-own shop in Eugene.......and Jeff continues to work on furniture refurbishing for people.

I fly to Des Moines (Boone) Iowa next month for a 10 day visit with my traveling partner, Rosann. We are going to visit the Amana Colonies. I sure enjoy traveling.......

Jeff is having the dune buggy engine rebuilt in Coos Bay by the Bug Germanator.......a VW man.

Lucas, Gizmo and Cody, our boys, are doing fine.....we enjoy our dogs !!!!

Would love to read about more of what others are doing in their lives.......

Eagle Court of Honor Invitation To You

2007-07-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

On behalf of the Scouts, Leaders, and Committee of Troop 40, Golden
Empire Council, California, and as a proud parent, it is my pleasure
to announce that having completed the requirements, including
planning and carrying out a service project which presented over 1500
books to Books For The Barrios for needy schools in the Philippines,
and having been examined by an Eagle Scout Board of Review

Andrew James Robarts
Was found worthy of the rank of Eagle Scout.

You are invited to come help us celebrate his achievement at an
Eagle Scout Court of Honor
beginning at 7pm September 14, 2007,
at the LDS church 1101 51st St, Sacramento, CA,

2007-07-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

As you all must have wonderd, Yes we have gotten married. Sorry for this late notice. I passed out invites in Whitefish at Lainnes reseption. This was fast sence Brian moved up in early June insted of late July. We will be sending out Notes of are marriage soon. We went to Glacier National park for 3 days for a hunny moon. There was still snow at logan pass, the top of going to the sun road. Marvelis weather for all day hikes. The girls will be going with us in a few weeks, to go get cherrys over on the flat head, out of Kallisbel. They just love Brian. But at Lainnes reseption Morgan coudent let Jay go. Never out off his arms for long. That made Brian gellis just a littel. Thats normaly his holding her. We are very happy and seteling in to life well, besides the heat. Love you all and talk soon.

Soaring on Eagle's Wings

2007-06-27T09:11:00.001-07:00

As of about 8pm Tuesday, June 26, 2007, Andrew James Robarts is an Eagle Scout!

Good times in Oregon Country

2007-06-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I are really enjoying the summer car shows and all the festivities that come with them..........we were up in Waldport (on the cool coast) last weekend......Beachcomber Days with a wonderful small town parade.......Jeff won his first award for the 1938 Chevy. We avoid the HOT areas.......

We had a garage sale with others in the area to sell some of Jeff's furniture......he has picked up many broken down pieces and refurbishs them.......he also sold his old chipper......too much work !!!

We are supplying ceramic bisque to a shop in Eugene that has clients come and paint the pieces then the shop fires them. It was alot harder finding places to take ceramics here in Oregon than it was in California........so we are very happy to still be able to continue with our hobby.

Our three boys (dogs) are doing great........we enjoy them so very much.........

Robin and Jeff (Lucas, Gizmo and Cody)

in Florence, Oregon.........

The date is set!!

2007-06-20T14:10:00.000-07:00

Not official yet

2007-06-01T22:02:00.000-07:00

No blood, but plenty of sweat and tears - Andrew got his papers accepted by the District Advancement Chair Saturday, May 19. Hooray! Now he waits to be called before a Board of Review (thank goodness THAT didn't have to take place before his 18th birthday. I was afraid it would). I have very little doubt that he will pass. Soon (hopefully), we will be inviting you to an Eagle Court of Honor.

Utah Vacation

2007-06-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

A good day hiking on memorial day.

A very nice vacation in Utah. We spent 8 days there. We hiked and road the 4 wheelers. I have learned how to drive a stick and a semi we did very well at least I think so.

A wild horse race

FINALLY time you heard from MDM

2007-05-27T17:29:00.001-07:00

Don't faint from shock! To say that you haven't heard from us would be a gross understatement. Mike and I have been keeping a pretty low profile, working our way through some financial problems due to his not being able to find a permanent job. We finally had to file bankruptcy this past January. It was a hard thing for us to do, but it was either that, or run the risk of losing everything. Now, we are back to square one, but it's a relief to have that burden off our shoulders. We are learning how to budget money and how to save it. Of course, at the moment, there isn't much to save, but we know this too shall pass.

For the past several months, Mike has been working for a some home developers placing signs along the road to direct people to the open houses. He has several routes and spends Friday nights putting the signs up, and, because of county/city/state regulations, has to take them all back down Sunday nights. Currently placing for 5 developments totaling 263 signs. It takes him about 7 hours Friday night and 6 hours Sunday night including post pick-up report. Not glamorous and definitely hard work ran or shine (does it shine at night?) but after fuel expense netting better than $16 an hour. (Paid per sign @$1 per, was almost $17 an hour but with the price of gas escalating…)

Over the Christmas holidays, Michael got a job driving for UPS. He really liked it, but, they do not hire drivers from outside the company (Unions rules I guess), so he would have to start as a part time package handler. It's kind of on the back burner. Every time we think he's going to go in that direction, something happens and it seems like he's getting steered in the food business. Last week, he got a job running a espresso/deli café in an office building. It will only be for a couple months, since the owners are trying to sell it and are in negotiations. Here's the funny part- the building the deli is in is one of the office buildings my company leases space in over by Vancouver Mall. I used to spend 1 day a week in that building when I still worked in Vancouver, so I know a lot of the people there. He is really having fun I think, but I'll have to let him tell you about that.

As for me, I'm still driving to Portland every day for work, which wouldn't be so bad except for the gas prices. But I don't like not having my car and even though the commute takes me longer, it would be twice as long if used public transportation. I would still have to drive to a park & ride in Portland, which is about half way to my office anyway. As it is, I don't get home in the evenings until about 6. Fortunately, I have a husband who is a wonderful cook and has dinner started when I get home. I usually just have to make the salad.

I'm hoping I can find something back in Vancouver, especially since, in the next 1-2 years, my position is technically going away. Problem is, I just don't know what else I would want to do. On the up side, I'm eligible for full retirement in November, so if I get really unhappy where I'm at, I can always leave. A couple months ago, I started getting sick and went to the doctor thinking I had a cold and was told it was allergies - the building I work in has caused my dust allergy to start acting up and I'm back on my allergy medication after almost 5 years off them.

BUT, we are healthy (for the most part) and have each other and all of you. We love hearing how all of
your are doing and all the wonderful things that are happening in your lives.

Love, Mike & Debi

What's happening with Uncle Esque and Aunt Kathie...

2007-05-19T01:49:00.001-07:00

Hello and early good morning, family!

Our garden has been gorgeous this year with lots of roses, camellias, lavendar, lilacs, and now gardenias in full bloom. We are now waiting for our tomato plants to begin producing.

Uncle Esque and I have been keeping a low profile...that's what we call it anyway. We pretty much keep to ourselves and try to stay healthy.

Our Circuit Weight Training class at Sacramento City College ended a bit early for us both. A couple of weeks ago, Esque was running a low-grade fever. He was a bit grumpy--not his usual sunny self. And, he kept complaining of aches and pains in his joints. Turns out it was due to some strange type of infection. Fortunately, antibiotics knocked it out of his system. We are meeting with his doctor in early June to get more information. And, we were assured, it's nothing serious.

Esque used to walk 3+ miles each day with Vince Matranga and Richard Silva--they grew up together--with Tom Frost (Esque's older brother)--all living on or near Second Avenue. Their favorite path would circle William Land Park. Well, Vince passed away a couple of years ago. Richard has been quite ill due to diabetes and can barely make it from the car to McDonald's for coffee. We keep planning to resume our walks together in the evening...maybe this weekend will find us out walking our neighborhood. :-)

Me...I've just taken another step up the career ladder. Yesterday (5/18/07) was my first day as a Staff Services Manager I in the Counselor Complaints/Compliance Unit within the Licensing and Certification Division. Same department (Alcohol and Drug Programs) and same floor--just moved over to the window seats. :-) Esque and I are quite pleased that my 30 years in State Government have finally paid off. The next year on probation will be interesting and challenging.

We sincerely hope and pray that everyone is healthy and happy. We wish you all the best. Much love, too.

Aunt Kathie & Uncle Esque

News about the Reed kids

2007-05-17T20:23:00.001-07:00

News about the Reed kids:

Chelsie (24) is a wonderful Mom. Chelsie's little Quinny is almost 3 years old. Quinny is so excited for her birthday party. That is all she talks about. She is so darling. Chelsie is a licensed Hair Dresser. She only works on the weekends and on Monday. Ryan, her husband, watches Quinny while she works on the weekends and then on Mondays Sarah comes out and watches her little Niece while Chelsie works.

Chad (23) recently moved to Hawaii to live with his Dad and to work. He was working Construction the first three weeks he was there and then got a job working for the Four Seasons Hotel. Apparently it is a absolutely

beautiful hotel. He is a manager of the Pool area. He loves his job and absolutely loves Hawaii.

Taylor (22) is working part-time and going to school full time. He just recently had his second shoulder surgery to correct damage to his shoulder from an accident 7 years ago. He did really great and the doctors think he will have a great recovery. Taylor is living at his Grandpa's right now, as Grandpa has cancer and is going down-hill really fast. Taylor is such a great help to him.

Sarah (18) is working full time and will returned to school in June. She wants to get her degree in Business. She is a very hard worker, very trustworthy and loving. The people at her work just love her. She loves watching Quinny and spending time with her big sister each week.

Sami (14 on May 28th) is a straight A student. Reports cards just came out and she is straight A's for the second time this year. She plays the piano, sings. Her school just recently did a 50's play and Samantha sang in a trio. What a great voice she has. She is a wonderful artist. Extremely dependable. She wants to go to Julliard in New York City, and if not Julliard than a performing school in New York when she is done with High School. She wants to see as much of the world as she can. She is very ambitions. She love the play "Wicked" and someday wants to meet Idina Menzel who played Elphaba in the play.

Do As I Say, Not.........oh, ok, I will do it, too

2007-05-15T21:23:00.001-07:00

The trouble with sending out a reminder asking everyone to write to
the family blog, is that now, of course, I need to also.

Today is E minus 7. In seven short, short days Andrew turns 18.
Will he fly or crash and burn? He and I are working away at his
Eagle. His project is completed - he collected and delivered probably
around 1500 books, plus stuffed animals, games and toys to Books for the Barrios
for schools in the Philippines. Now, the write up! groan. The
application to fill out. Letters of recommendation to collect. His
Eagle book to put together. Get all this approved by the vigilant
District Advancement Chair AND have a Board of Review before midnight
of his 18th birthday. We are so close, and yet ...... I sure know
why they give the mothers those little pins.

In other news, we adopted a couple of cocktiels from a dog park friend
who rescued them from a cruelly negligent neighbor. "I was hoping
they would die." Recently Mr Cotton had us quite concerned as he
huddled in the bottom of the cage and seemed out of sorts. Until we
saw an egg in the bottom of the cage! So far Mr Cotton, or should we
say, Mrs Rosie Cotton, has laid 5 eggs now. We do not THINK they are
viable (and WHAT would we do if they are???). Some experts say to let
th hen keep her eggs for a while to satisfy her little mother heart.
Also, if you take them all away, she might just keep laying.

Joseph and I are facing finals in our respective classes Thursday.
ahh, the joy. So far, we each have strong A's, so no terror. I am
amazed at being able to carry an A and STILL not understand, much less
like, Accounting (basic beginning class). The teacher is helpful and
a bit lenient, but still..

Don't you think you can write something AT LEAST as interesting as this?! I bet you can!

Hoping to hear from you!

love, Barbara

Robin returns

2007-05-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a fantastic vacation to Europe !!!.......I spent three weeks touring northern Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Germany. Jet lag still has it's hold on me......the body wants to wake up at 3-4 AM !!!! I met my girlfriend, Rosann, from Iowa, and we shared all meals and all our tours then retired each evening to our own rooms........the flowers were all in bloom and the Alps were awesome........I could go on and on.

Jeff was busy at home taking care of the kids.......and doing his furniture and playing with his toys......he doesn't want to travel !!!!

We are doing our first car show with the 1938 Chevy hotrod next weekend.....it is Rhody Days in Florence.......a Show & Shine, BBQ, Car cruise through Florence on Saturday and the big parade on Sunday. This summer will be busy going to many shows within 100 miles or so from us.

We are both feeling well and are enjoying life.
Robin Malavasic, Florence, Oregon

We Had Cheesecake…

2007-05-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

…and ate it too!

Teresa and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary this weekend. One whole year—has it been that long already?

Those of you who were able to make it to our reception know that we had cheesecake (made by Cindy, one of Teresa's bridesmaids) for our wedding cake. The cheesecake survived the year in excellent condition…and we’re not doing too bad ourselves.

After we got married, Teresa and I lived in a little appartment in Rancho Cordova. The living room there never recovered from its status as a storage area, but we enjoyed a large bedroom and a decent kitchen while we were there. We spent a weekend at home, then took a honeymoon trip to Lake Tahoe.

Just a few months after we got married, we moved to the San Luis Obispo area to attend Cal Poly. We found out what the housing market is like leading up to fall quarter (as soon as one bedroom apartments are advertised, they’re gone) and were very blessed to aquire our current home in Grover Beach. We live in a cozy studio apartment with the world’s best landlords! Mike & Christine are a wonderful LDS couple that took a chance on us newlyweds when all we knew was that Financial Aid would come and Teresa was looking for a job. We found an ad online on Wednesday, a week and a half before we were planning on moving, saw the place that Sunday and moved the following Friday. It felt like home right away, and became such really fast!

We were blessed right away with a good job opportunity for Teresa. She is working in the accounting department of Morris & Garritano Insurance Agency, the largest insurance agency on the central coast. She is one of three assistants working under the CFO, doing a variety of assignments that are both fulfilling and challenging. It is a great opportunity to learn and grow.

With all the stress of moving and looking for work, we were surpised to find we had a week to settle in before classes started at Cal Poly because they changed the calendar after we made our plans in the spring. David’s study of Architecture at Cal Poly continues—his second year coming to a close in just a few short weeks. He is working hard and designing beautiful pieces of work. Teresa’s favorite model so far was his “Mammal Mansion” in the fall quarter, where he designed and built a home for a Fresno Kangaroo Rat in the style of Fay Jones. It seemed an interesting assignment, even strange to some, but the end result was a beautiful wooden structure that only exists in memory…sadly it was too large to keep, so it got demolished when David moved out of his “second home” studio for the quarter break. While school is stressful, we’re hoping and praying for the best that this path leads to.

Oddly enough, David’s favorite class this quarter seems to be his Humanities class! “Values and Technology” currently involves the book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance and discussions about how social values are affected by new technology. We enjoy discussing the various class topics after class two nights a week on the way home, and reading the book together as well.

We have been taking the “Building an Eternal Marriage” institute class together on Tuesday nights with this year’s missionary couple, Elder and Sister Greenall. It is a learning and enriching experience that will be a strength to us for a long time to come.

Since last fall, school and work have occupied most of our time. As members of the Pismo Beach ward we have also been blessed with a few callings that we’re still trying to get under our belt, so to speak. We were called as the ward Music Chair early on, and are organizing ward choir which has been missed in this ward for a long time. We’re excited that so many ward members are looking forward to the opportunity! We’ve also been called to the Primary board and are teaching the Valient 9 class, with 6 active students. David is also an instructor in the Elders Quorum, assigned to the Teachings for Our Times lessons.

It’s hard to believe that we have been living here for almost eight months. We have been able to make a few trips away to visit our loved ones in California, in the Sacramento area and Los Angeles. Since moving down here we’ve attended the Sacramento, Los Angeles, Fresno, and San Diego temples and are so blessed to live so close to so many.

A typical week includes so much busyness that even our neighbors/landlords don’t see us. We used to look forward to going to church with them, but since Mike was called to be the Sunday School president and we then went to Primary, we’re lucky to wave in the hallways. They have become very good friends, and we will always cherish the time we’ve spent in their home.

We‘re sorry that we have been a little neglectful in thanking all the wonderful people that showed their love and support of our wonderful wedding experience last May. Knowing we would move from Rancho Cordova soon after we were married, we decided we’d send thank yous out with an address that would last a while. We appoligize for the delay in expressing our deep gratitude to you for your love and generosity in supporting us and loving us so much. We are still writing notes to thank each of you individually, so please don’t feel forgotten. We are so blessed by each of you and the love we feel from you.

We’ve had a wonderful anniversary weekend. On Saturday we attended the Los Angeles Temple to help fulfill our ward’s sealing assignment. We had a wonderful session in the beautiful sealing room doing proxy work for relatives of our wonderful ward organist and her husband. After the session, we had lunch then continued the temple work for some of Teresa’s mother’s line that her sister started with baptisms last March. The whole time at the temple was reminiscent and beautifully uplifting. We took the scenic route home…much as we did when we left the Oakland Temple a year ago, just enjoying being together on our way home. Our aniversary weekend is ending so we’ll say goodbye for now and eat some more of that cheesecake. We love you!

Love and hugs,
David and Teresa

Sidebar Changes

2007-05-04T17:01:00.000-07:00

Mom has given me access to the layout of the blog to upgrade the feeds from family blogs. I've added the Recent Entries on Family Blogs feed to the sidebar. This feed shows the five (limited by Blogger, not me) family blogs that were most recently updated. I've been a little creative in the naming of each link. I wanted to include the blog authors name and the title of their recent post, but I didn't want to ignore the title of thier blog. Please let me know if you have any feedback on this format.

[Update: 6 May 2006] It looks like the Recent Entries Feed is not being updated accurately. The problem seems to lie in getting the list of family blogs from my bloglines account. I'll have to look into a better way to make it work.

[Update: 8 May 2006] I changed from using my bloglines account directly to using a file I copied from it to another website. The part that parses the list seems to work more reliably, but Yahoo Pipes still cant seem to get it all the way through the pipeline reliably (uses 4 pipes to get the feed the way I want it. It looks like the only way to do it reliably einough is to get a server where I can run custom code but I'm not ready to commit to paid hosting.

[Update: 10 May 2007] It looks like the best way to make this work is to manually enter the blogs to monitor in Yahoo! Pipes. It makes the pipeline much more simple, but it will be slightly more work to update when a new blog needs to be added or a blog moves to a new blog site.

[Update: 13 May 2007] While the feed I created for this feature was limited to one entry per external blog, Blogger was remembering old items that had been in the feed and continuing to display them. I think I have fixed this by setting the ID of the feed item to the full domain name of the blog, So instead of a new entry on an external blog being a new entry in the feed, it is now an update to an existing entry of the feed. Let's see if this works.

[Update: 16 May 2007] It finally seems to be working. I had to associate and ID with the position in the feed because Blogger doesn't seem to want to reorder items that it has previously include. The sidebar listing also has a conciderable delay from the live posting because of caching of the data by both Yahoo Pipes and blogger. Unfortunately Yahoo Pipes cache for infrequently updated feeds seems to be quite long.

Counting Down the Days

2007-05-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Married life has been a challenge for Erik and I. We have been married a little over one month and we have actually only spent seven days together. The picture was taken at my favorite Anasazi ruin. We are hoping to come back to this spot to celebrate our first anniversary.

Erik did come down a couple of weeks ago and he took me to my first high school prom. I had to be there because I am the Junior class advisor but it was so sweet that Erik took the time and made my night special. The DJ even dedicated a song to us and we danced even though neither of us are very good at it. We are hoping to take dance classes sometime soon.

Today we have exactly 20 days left before Erik arrives in his little yellow school bus to whisk me away to our palace connected to the car wash.I still have a lot of packing to do and the steps I need to take to check out of school are exhausting, but I will be ready when Erik arrives.

Once I arrive in Havre, I will have a couple of weeks to get settled before we start our honeymoon trip. Our first stop will be Whitefish, Montana where we will have a festive and relaxed celebration with family and friends. We will leave Whitefish and head for Seattle, visiting some of Erik's friends on our way and eventually we will end up in Alaska to spend a week fishing. We will spend a couple more days visiting my Childhood friend,Lynnda and her family in Alaska before we come home with one hundred pounds of salmon. If you have a chance, come visit us in Montana and we will have a salmon feed!

Next year we go to Africa!!!

I said YES

2007-05-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

Brian and I will be getting married this summer. No date set yet. Just a few things to work out like selling a house and moving to Conrad, just small set backs.
The girls are so happy and Morgan wont stop calling him daddy. He loves being called this. It makes him smile so big.
We only have a few weeks left in school and it is getting hot here in Conrad. We can't wait to take the 4 wheelers and the boat out soon.

I wont be able to do much this summer. With having to have surgery on the 4th of June. Just have to have an ulcer removed to prevent this from happening again. Then a wedding to plan for.

Today is beautiful!!!

2007-04-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of Adam and Hana wrestling!!!

Hana is 7 months and in two weeks she will be 8
months!!! Time in going by really quickly!!!!

HOORAY !!! Adam is potty trained!!! Just a few accidents here and there but basically he is set for school!!!! So I will be signing Adam up for preschool next year!!! I am scared poopless to let him go but it will be a good experience for him!!!

Adam just recently got a hair cut dad had the honors of cutting his hair!!!

Hana is trying to crawl and sits up perfectly!!! Except when she gets excited she falls over then lifts herself up again!!! She is also drooling cause her 4 top teeth are coming in so she is chewing anything and everything!!!

Jacob is working at the air national guard still!!! He is doing very well and will hopefully be finishing his degree this fall!!! Depending on his work schedule.

Well we love you all and hope all is well!!!

love ,
Amanda Jacob Adam and Hana

crazzy peaple

2007-04-25T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hi!!!! just a little up date, as most of you know I have been dating this vary kind and hansom man for about 5 months. He fits right in are family, just a little crazy. The girls love to have him around . Even when it is just for 3 or 4 days at a time. He treats them with love and kindness even when Rachel is acting like she is all that. She has a small attitude problem at times. Morgan just love him to hug and read to her. That is so cute to see. We couldn't get a good photo with all these characters. We will keep trying

A FACE THAT WE ALL NEED TO GET USED TO SEEING!!!!

I will keep you all updated on how we are doing. We have decided something. But just a few thing need to work out first. You all will be the fist ones to know then we get them figged out.

Rachel & Morgan in Brians jeep

2007-04-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hi family, Brian came up for the weekend and we went out in his jeep. The girls loved it until we went out of town. They yelled all the way to the lake. I guess the wind was bad in the back. They covered there heads with a blanket. A wonderful day for a drive.

Only a matter of time

2007-04-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

I should have known that my mom would have nagged me about this some time. Not that there's much for me to write that have not been addressed in her own posts. Maybe I'm here for comic relief. *shrugs* I don't know. I'd better get going soon, but since my mom will likely not let me rest until I write something, I'll try to make it quick. Let's see, something interesting... Not coming to me. I wonder if she'd hate it if I cut it off at this. She just told me to join and take a look at it, so I guess I might be safe this round as long as I lay low. I should get ready for church, so I have an excuse to stop. I think I'll risk it. Bye everybody! And to those who have yet to join, I'm sure this will be a great way to get to know everyone and I recommend you do.

PS: I'm Ben Robarts, son of Barbara and Glen Robarts. Jake Renolds is merely a preferred pen name I tend to use for a multitude of purposes and is not my real name.

Testing Testing Testing

2007-04-21T17:21:00.001-07:00

I think that it is possible to email a post in. Cool!

But when is it better to email a post than to log on and post on the
blog itself? I am not sure.

However you do it, I think the internet provides a great way to keep
in touch. I hope that my family will take advantage of this modern
wonder - write in, read, comment.

I and others am? are? hoping to hear from you.

Barbara on Break

2007-04-20T13:21:00.000-07:00

I asked you all to write, so I guess I had better!

Glen finished remodeling and renovating the house he inherited from his father and moved into it last month. Mostly. Some of his stuff remains in some kind of informal storage at my house.

Along with the various leavings of 10 pack rats over some 30 years. It is going to take AGES to clean, sort, and implement some of our plans for the house. (If you want to know about some of our ideas, read my old post What Shall We Name Our House" on my personal blog.)

He also signed over his interest/ownership and I have gotten my own mortgage. Being the sole responsible person is a little scarey. But I feel good about it. It is OUR house!!

Although not final, I don't even know how close it is - weeks ago (before yet another trip to Mexico!) my lawyer said that his lawyer was going to draw up the papers for us to sign and then it has to go through the court or something - anyway, the divorce is beginning to have healing effects. Although the house is a cluttered wreck, it feels like home. It is a peaceful, happy place. Not that there was yelling or fighting before, but there was tension and unhappiness. Some of us who have struggled with strongly negative personal feelings find ourselves feeling less resentful and bitter, much more Christian. The boys are self-reliant and helpful which makes it so much easier for me. I don't know how working moms do it!

I have been at my job with California State Parks for 5 months now. Almost done with probation and no warning notices. I don't like being away from my guys and home. I don't have time or energy to see the grandbabies much or get anything done around here. But if I have to work, and I do, I am very fortunate to work here. I like all the supervisors, especially mine. My co-workers are almost all good workers and pleasant people. The Chief of services is a delightful, friendly woman. I feel like I am working for something worthwhile. The work is enough to keep me busy and make the days go quickly, but not enough to cause great stress. Much about my job is very convienent and tailor fitted to me. I thank the Lord for blessing me to be here.

Fun stuff - Joseph and I took our old beat-up lawn mower to SMUD's Mow Down and replaced it with an electric mower. I don't know how to use it yet, but Joseph does. I used to have to ask him and remind him to mow. Now, I come home to a neatly mown, pot-holed weed patch, instead of the scraggly mess we used to have. It looks much better.

We adopted a pair of cockatiels from a friend who rescued them from a criminally negligent neighbor. We don't know their age or gender. I tend to think of the yellow one as she and the grey one as he because of birds we had before. We call them Yellow Rose or Rosey Cotton and Mr Cotton.

Andrew is 1 month away from turning 18. I am trying to NOT to get an ulcer as "we" try to finish his Eagle requirements. Finish Communications Merit Badge, do his Eagle project - collect books for a disadvantaged school in the Philippines whose books were lost in a typhoon, do all his paperwork and get a Board of Review. I know he CAN do it and I think he will, but it is going to be a near thing. Believe me, you will hear about it if, that is, when he does!!! I tell you, mothers DESERVE those Mother Pins!

After Andrew, I as Troop Committe Chair, have 4 more Life Scouts to help along to Eagle. The next one has a year and his mom is really nudging him. His project has been approved. My youngest Life is Benjamin. I also need to work on getting our younger Scouts to advance. I love the Scouting program and what it can do for our young men.

Part of celebrating Easter for me was to finally get to the temple for the first time since starting work. I had thought to go on an evening during the week, but that just didn't work for me. Saturday morning seems to work out. I am going to try to manage once a month. It felt so good to go. I truly felt like I was going home and I felt a loving welcome.

Not much news and my lunch break is over.

What is happening with you?

Happy Birthday,Mike!

2007-04-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

To most of the world April 15 is Income Tax Day, but we know it is more importantly Michael's birthday.

How many of you remember that when he was little, the family called him Pinky Butch? Much of his childhood, he was called Pinky. Why not Butch? oh, well, I am kind of glad, because had they called him Butch as a child, he might still be Butch. Who would dare call him Pinky now?

When we were very little, Mike was probably my best buddy. Even as teens, I remember long bike rides through the Oregon countryside, just the two of us.

A few favorite memories about Mike -young Mike at the sewing maching putting his Scout patches on his uniform. The sound of Mike's laughter. Mike and Debi showing up at reunions with delicious treats. Mike quietly helping a sibling who is having difficulties, but not telling anyone else.

Mike is a good guy, strong and kind. I am glad he is my brother.

Happy Birthday, Mike!

Erik and Lainee

2007-04-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

If you can read the writing on the picture, you have good eyes! Say a prayer of thanksgiving. I can barely read it. This is what it says:

Erik and Lainee Meis

after a ten year friendship

are destined to remain together

forever.

Married in Montcello, Utah

March 30, 2007

PO Box 1241

Havre, Montana 59501

406 265-8235

Lainee can be reached at

435-727-3454 until May 26th

Celebration for family and friends

June 23, 2007

48 Painted Hill Lane

PO Box 5276

Whitefish, Montana 59937

Meis is a German name, pronounced like Mice or maybe M(eyes)

Marci

2007-02-26T20:16:00.000-08:00

Sorry it took so long to post this! I don't get much compter time anymore. Marci sent me this email Mon, 26 Feb 2007. Lack of time, plus that it came to the email address I use less often. But! I think you will find it interesting! - Barbara

I just got home from my trip to Sacramento with a pit stop in Salt Lake. Sacramento was great and I was able to see Barbara and her family. It was like being home. We had dinner at Ruth's home and it was a blast to laugh like that with them. Her boys have grown up to be handsome young men now. Ruth's little girl was so cute and has a spirit that you can just feel by being near her. I didn't see much of her son; he was crabby and needed to sleep. The next day I had that deposition about the car accident about 4 years ago. I hope that it is about over it has been long enough. That evening I spent with Esque and Kathy.

Kathy made me laugh and stay calm about the day to come. We must have talked and shopped for 3 or 4 hrs that was a good time. I just
wish I didn't have to get some sleep. I had to catch the shuttle at 4:30 am to leave Sacramento for Salt Lake.

Now I bet most of you are more interested on what happened there, not Sacramento.

Well if you don't know, I have been corresponding with a young man from Vernal, UT from Dec 22, 2006. His name is Brian Skinner. Now this
last Saturday we met for the first time, 2-24-07. We met and had a perfect time in UT for two days. I think I had lost all my verbal skills on the plane. I didn't even say hi. I just hugged him. Things went down hill after that. At least on the ski slopes, we went to go ride the tram. This was cold and very high. I think he had that planned because I can't stand heights and it was colder than I was dressed for. If you can imagine what happened. Well a first kiss. I think he likes me, no I know he likes me. The Jazz game and the Spoken Word were on are agenda for the next two days. Then sight seeing all over Salt Lake. I had the most prefect two days. Another trip is on the works, not sure if he is coming here or we are going there. This time with the girls. Lets see how that goes.

Rosers

2007-02-20T20:30:00.000-08:00

We had some fun snow days in January here. Acadia really had fun playing with her friends, sledding down the hill. :) But I am thinking it won't be quite as fun when she has to stay in school for an extra 4 days this summer. :S

Ryan's birthday was the end of January. For his gift, I gave him tickets to see Blue Man Group last weekend. I turned up sick so I couldn't go, which was really a bummer because the last time we saw them was a blast! I sent him with a friend though and they had a terrific time!

Acadia has received a Flat Stanley from a friend in Idaho. We are supposed to keep him with us for a week or so and then send him back, telling about all the adventures Flat Stanley had. Flat Stanley went to the Blue Man Group concert with Ryan and has been to school with Acadia. He will also get to go to church, gymnastics, and a dance recital before getting sent back home on Valentine's day. :) It's a cute, fun idea for the kids to learn about things in different parts of the country. I really wish we could take Flat Stanley to the gorge or Mt. St. Helens though.

We were planning on it but then Ryan's car broke down yesterday and so he has my car for work until he either fixes or replaces his. Since he works on Saturdays, that means no time to go out for any adventures with Flat Stanley. :(

Fortunately, we were already planning on buying a car soon, so this will only speed that up, if anything. :)

We recently have done more work on our house. In December, we had central heat and air put in and also converted to gas. We bought all new appliances, except for the refrigerator we had purchased new when we bought the house. We still have a lot of work we want to do, but just having the new heat and new appliances is wonderful! :)

There is a lot to look forward to this year! Acadia will be turning 8 in June and will be baptized then! She is excited for the baptism and also to get to go into Activity Days at church. She is currently taking gymnastics and really likes it. She is also taking a little dance class after school. It is just line dancing and square dancing and lasts for only one month, her recital is on Tuesday. Then she will be taking sign language after school for a month, and after that a magic class. It's fun that the school teachers volunteer to teach the kids these things for free if they want. Acadia really enjoys classes like these. :)

Aurora is growing and changing constantly! She has been rolling over both ways and is starting to rock back and forth on her hands and knees. She has been teething but nothing has cut yet. It's funny because the teeth that are bugging her are her eye teeth! Not the normal bottom front teeth that are usually first. Silly girl. But she continues to be a happy, easy baby. She sleeps great! She loves to eat her feet and also loves to stand.

Ryan is busy working and taking an on-line class again. He just had his 10 year anniversary with his employer. That means from now on he gets 4 weeks of vacation per year. Which is really nice since we usually use all our vacation time trying to visit family. :) He is serving in the Elders Quorum presidency which has been a good experience for him.

I am still serving in the YW presidency which is really fun. This year the youth will be doing another Hand Cart Trek in our stake. They will pull handcarts for 3 days straight - about 20 miles or so. They will wear period clothes and have "visitors" come to share pioneer stories with them. They will sing and dance around the campfire at nights and spend their entire time (except for sleeping) working together in family groups. It was an awesome experience for them when they did it 3 years ago... I'm hoping that I can be involved with it somehow this year - maybe go as a photographer or video recorder. We'll see! :)

So, that's the latest on us... I keep a blog that you can read whenever you want. It often talks about the stuff going on around here... www.sariahsays.blog-city.com And Acadia has one too, though she rarely writes in it! lol ... www.http://junebug.blog-city.com/. We also have a on-line photo album that you are free to check up on... http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v128/ryenrye/ (Just click on the sub-albums, it should be fairly easy to navigate... but ask if you have questions!).

We hope everyone is well!

Love, Sariah, Ryan, Acadia, and Aurora

PS. When are our letters "due"? How often are we sending them? :)