Round-up @ Riley's Ranch

our Alaskan Cruise

2010-07-29T06:32:00.036-05:00

So here are all my pictures from the cruise, well actually still not all. We had so much fun. I can't wait to go again and it was a lot of fun to go with friends.
and our journey begins!
on the bus to the ship through Seattle.
This is probably one of the few times we saw Farah's boys, they were so busy at Camp Carnival.

on deck 9! Liddo Deck
42 at sea! It's a domino game
m Lindsey
Lindsey and Les
Jane Ann and Les
Wayne Cindy and Whitney
Margie and Stan

John and Sylvia
Steve and Kayla
Melvin and Lillie
me and Billy
My birthday dance
part of the glacier floating in the ocean
Deck 9 our favorite meeting place, cause that's where the food is!!
Lot's and lots of waterfalls along the shores as you go up to the glacier

and this is the big glacier, there's a ship heading toward it just to give you an idea

my silly kids!
One of the glaciers we saw from the ship
Kareokee! It was so much fun

We couldn't get our husbands to dance so we danced with each other!

A couple young men joined us!
The guys were really fun!
I loved this skull painted on the side of the mountain, just weird, this was in Skagway
Part of our group on the way up through the Yukon
It was cold!

The train was great!

Becky and Wayne Grigry
That's Melvin back there.
Lindsey silhouetted on a beautiful lake we passed
I couldn't get over all the mountains, they were all around us and so big

Cindy and Wayne Light

Les on the train platform. He liked it out there even though it was freezing
in Bennett.
Our dining experience

This was the oldest building, a church

We found an old graveyard, that was being restored, while we were hiking
Our guide told us not to disturb anything because they were considered relics, there was lots of strange things just laying around that they hadn't cataloged yet. LOL

This was a young moose swimming across the lake, she jumped out in front of us.

these guys had been Kayaking, not something I would be able to do there as cold as it is.

The original train bridge, the tallest bridge built at the time, no longer used

Our whale sighting in Juneo was spectacular, we so many I couldn't believe it!

our Salmon bake, up in the forest, they cooked the salmon out on a pit and there was a fantastic waterfall we hiked up to.

Aaaahhh, our zipping experience in Katchekan. It was awesome, zipping through the rain forest. So beautiful and so fun!

don't you just love my stylish gear!

then we repelled down out of the trees

Our ship at port

we had a lot of fun at dinner with all these crazy friends.

our waiters singing to us!

we're still missing a few, but this is almost the whole group

these are the gardens in Victoria Canada, I loved this statue because my grandson's name is Caleb

Billy went with us so nothing happened to us, he worries.

Lilie, me and Becky

the whole place was beautiful beyond believe!

Very Special Weekend

2010-05-17T10:49:00.004-05:00

we didn't get Maebeth and Richard because they were still in the temple doing some of his families work.

We had a very special weekend. Billy's sister went to the temple for the first time and we all got to be there. Her mom and I were her escorts, which was a special blessing. Billy and I took her and Ma down the night before and rented rooms so we wouldn't have to get up so early. Richard, Maebeth, Kyle and Kisha all came down Saturday morning. The Bryers and the Swapps were there. We sure used a lot of kleenix. I can't tell you what it means to have more family going to church and making those sacred covenants. It's just a blessing bigger than I can even describe.
Then we all went to Joe's for dinner, great end to a perfect day!

The Day before

2010-05-09T09:22:00.002-05:00

It was such a busy day yesterday with all the edible bouquest and chocolate dipped strawberries. Kisha and I started about 7:30, then Maebeth came at 10:30. The y worked until Kisha had to go to a birthday party for Holly and Maebeth went to the store to relief Paula. Kyle was our delivery man and he told Kisha I was a slave driver. When we were all done Billy and I went and delivered smoked chickens to various mothers we know and love. That was a lot of fun. When we got home Kisha had gotten everything cleaned up.
The delight of the evening was Charlotte and Holly. Charlotte was playing peek-a-boo with her Grumpa. She is just so cute. And Holly didn't want to leave her Grumpa. Kisha said she cried all the way home. Lindsey got to spend the night. Next weekend I will be able to have them both I think, it will be the end of six weeks since surgery and he said I could do the things I feel comfortable doing by then. I don't have to go back for a year WooHoo!!!
I hope everyone is having a wonderful Mothers Day.

Blog picture.

2010-05-02T07:48:00.003-05:00

The girls felt like I needed to change the picture so this picture is when we had Dad's surprise birthday last year.

The Ranch

2010-05-01T08:52:00.005-05:00

This is the ranch where we have our little herd of cattle. Billy was looking for a place to put some cattle on and he was thinking about leasing some land when Viki Yates heard him and offered him a deal. Her dad is getting old, he's 98, and she can't keep up with everything on theranch, her sons in college, she needed a little help so they worked out a deal. Billy loves working out there. He loves not just his cattle but hers too. Everytime he's been out and there's a new baby he comes home and tells me all about it and which cow it belongs to. Here are a few.

This is Old Mexico. They use him as a first breeder for the little heifers so their calves won't be too big. He's very samll for a longhorn.

Hazie Moon

2010-04-30T15:47:00.002-05:00

Well, we finally had a baby. We had given up and then Blue Moon surprised us. We knew she was kind of fat but had decided she wasn't fat enough to be having a baby and it was past time. Then Billy goes out to feed and here's a little filly standing on spindly legs beside her momma.

It took a while to name her but after looking at her everyday, several times a day I noticed she had this quarter moon shape on her face. She came from the Moon Ranch, her momma's name is Blue Moon because she has aone blue eye and so I named her Hazie Moon because of the moon, it's there but it's just kind of hazie looking.

flowers

2010-04-05T18:46:00.004-05:00

Can't remember what this is called right now, it's a hanging basket on my front porch, the flowers are just so pretty.

My Tulips, I love these colors

Just pictures

2010-04-05T18:35:00.002-05:00

I love to take pictures of strange things. This is actually an old bike Maebeth had that she let me put in my flower bed. I haven't quit got the flower bed cleaned out yet and I just loved the way it looked.
This is part of the same flower bed, just a small old piece of tree.

The bike feels so nostalgic.

Evan's 7th Birthday

2010-04-05T18:25:00.002-05:00

His birthday was actually on Thursday but that was the day I went into surgery so we decided to have it on Sunday.
Maebeth had forgotten to get candles so she borrowed some from me.
Little did we know that they were the kind that can't be blown out.
he blew and
he blew and he blew and we all just started laughing. I wish I could have caught his face when they started lighting back up. He was so puzzled. We were too for a moment but then it all seemed so erefect because his birthday is April fools day!

Holly

2010-03-27T15:34:00.003-05:00

Holly let me braid the top of her hair on Wednesday. She's not real great with hair bows and barretts, so I thought it might last a little better. The whole time she was saying' That huts...but she let me finish and she was so cute I had to take pictures.

Charlotte's birthday

2010-03-27T15:06:00.005-05:00

Charlotte turned 1 in March. She was so cute, so different from William. At first she was very dainty with her cake, offering everyone a bite but then she really got into it. Her favorite thing to do now is go around going AAAAHHHHHH with her tongue all out! She is such fun.

Grandkids

2010-03-27T14:57:00.005-05:00

Katie and Jack got to come see us for a little while during spring break, it was a nice surprise, we really didn't expect it because John and Sylvia had made all the arrangements with Leanne and we didn't want to intrude on their time but they are so sweet they shared. I barely saw Jack, which is always the way it is. He likes coming here because of Nolan and Caleb. But now Katie is another story. She and Evan wanted to plant flowers so we did. We also looked at bugs a lot. They are both such fun. Lindsey just wanted to play with the front door. She likes practicing opening and shutting and walking up and down the sidewalk.

My Year So Far

2010-02-17T08:54:00.002-06:00

It is so hard to keep up with this blog, my store blog, my fb and my store fb!!! I'm thinking I will get better but not sure when. It's been a great year so far. We were super busy at the store for Valentine's day. Vikki Barnes was doing a private event for Valentine's Day so I asked Billy if that could be my Valentine's present. I love going out to eat but not on Valentine's Day. Every place is so packed with people, there is always a wait and it's stressful to me, so going to a private dinner was like heaven. He decided he waned the girls and their husbands and another couple that we have become friends with to come also. It was wonderful after three days of none stop strawberries and fruit bouquets. We served immediately with four different appetizers, then the main course was stuffed porkchop, a wnderful veggie dish which was wrapped in bacon, special seasoned potatoes. We had this fantastic chocolate overload for desert, with sparkling white grape juice and rasberries. I loved it. It was fun to do with the kids and it was so relaxing. Then we went home and had a 42 tournament. 42 is a dominos game that not many people know how to play anymore but much to our delight Carla and Zeth know so it was a fun evening.
I have read some really good books for our book clubs.
Now I am preparing myself for a possible surgery. I find out Friday. It's not serious just frustrating. I know I am getting older but it's hard to take sometimes when the things I worked so hard to try and avoid having happen, happen anyway. It's hard to slow down, when I know I really need too. It's hard for me to tell people I just can't, when I really want to. I really appreciate so much more those who have gone before me. I remember being impatient with them a lot of times and now I am repentant and hope I can be much kinder because I am walking in their shoes. Life has a funny way of teaching us but we all eventually learn. I look forward to this year. I have three girls going to school right now. Kisha is working hard on her LVN. She will be done in August and then Kyle will start. I am so proud of them both. Kisha is doing execellent in her classes and I admire Kyle so much for his willingness to do all he can by watching the girls and substituting at school. He will tell you right off he has no ability to multi-task so this is very challenging for him but he's been a trooper! Leanne is working on her masters and I am overwhelmed at everything she still continues to accomplish as a mother and wife with the heavy work load she has. And Lindsey has started working on her doctorate. I can't tell you how proud I am of all my girls. Not just these three but Maebeth also. In everything they do, they put all their talents and effort to accomplish it. I watch them and I am amazed at the great jobs they are doing with their children, with their husbands and with all aspects of life that they take on. God could not have blessed Billy and I more than He has with these wonderful girls and our wonderful sons-in-law!!!
Well, now I'm off to a ribbon cutting at the bank. Oh yea, we are now investors in a bank. It's so awesome. Who would have thought.

Christmas

2009-12-26T07:37:00.003-06:00

It was all quit interesting. My store was way busy the last two weeks. I couldn't hardly keep up with the candy sales. And everyone waited until the last minut to bring in gifts to wrap. But we got it done.
Then our trip to Justin for Lindseys turn for Christmas ended with us turning back around and coming home because of road conditions. They really were having a blizzard and the ice on the road before we got to Abilene was bad. Ranger Hill ended up shutting down. We could not have gotten there in time and would have been stuck in the middle of nowhere with no kids so we are so glad we turned around. We spent it right here in our own home. Next year will be Lindseys turn again.
On the way home we got a call that my Dad might need to have a pace maker put in and I thought I was going to make a trip to Austin to be with him but that turned out much better than we thought. After running tests the doctor said his heart didn't require a pacemaker. When I talked to him Christmas morning he said he just felt like he got run down after being sick with a cold and stomach virus. He has enphyzema so his health is a problem but I was so glad that he was better. That was a little scary.
So all in al it was a great Christmas even with all the little gliches! I hope yours was too!

Just for Karen, Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T07:03:00.002-06:00

Pumpkin Roll
3 eggs
1 cup of sugar
3/4 cup flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
Beat eggs with sugar for 5 minutes. Add pumpkin, flour, cinnamon, and baking powder. Mix well. Grease and flour 10x15x1 inch cookie sheet. Pour in mixture and bake at 375 degrees for 15 - 20 minutes. Then immediately turn over onto a dish towel and roll up lengthwise in towel. Cool for 1 hour.
Filling
1 cup powdered sugar
4 tablespoons butter
6 oz. cream cheese softened
1/2 tsp vanilla
Cream together. Unroll pumpkin roll and spread with filling. Re-roll in wax paper and refrigerate. Slice to serve. This freezes very well. And it takes a little practice to get the rolling and unrolling to work for you but it's worth the time and effort. Enjoy!

Divinity

2009-12-23T06:12:00.002-06:00

For all my friends who asked, here is the recipe I use to make divinity for the store. I hope yours is successful. And fyi it has 70 calories per candy.
2 2/3 cups white sugar
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
2 egg whites 1 tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup chopped nuts
Cook sugar, corn syrup and water in a 2 quart pot over low heat stirring constantly until sugar is dissolved. Cook without stirring to 260 degrees on candy thermometer.
Beat egg whites in 1 -1/2 quart bowl until stiff peaks form. Continue to bet while pouring hot syrup in a thin stream into egg whites. Add vanilla, beat until mixture holds its shape and becomes slightly dull. Fold in nuts. Drop from buttered spoon onto waxed paper. Let stand at room temperature until firm, then can be stored in air tight container if it lasts that long!

Lindsey's program at school

2009-12-20T12:11:00.002-06:00

Lindsey was the present under the tree. She had a big green bow on her head. She didn't do much but it sure meant a lot to us that she was part of the program. Mrs. Boone said she learned all the songs the first time they practiced and was singing them in class but for some reason she won't sing when the other kids are singing. She was the leader going in too. And after it was over one of her little friends came running up and bear hugged her. It made my heart sing!!

More Christmas

2009-12-20T11:56:00.004-06:00

This was the church Christmas party.

Charlotte has figured out, he's not such a bad guy after all.

Dutcher-Phipps Christmas party

2009-12-19T07:56:00.004-06:00

Our company Christmas party is always so great because of the kids. Santa brings each child a gift. They are always so excited and can't hardly wait.

Our little Charlotte was not too sure about this man in the beard but William on the other was all about the package in his hand. He knew what that meant.

Nativity displays

2009-12-19T07:46:00.002-06:00

These pictures do not do it justice and there would have been more but I forgot to charge my camera so...but here is a little taste of what it looked like. If you look close, you'll see there are several displays on every table. I wish I had gotten pictures of the unusual ones like the teddy bear one and the mice, there was also a veggie tales.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-19T07:31:00.004-06:00

We had both Billy's family and mine here this year. It was great. We were only missing Leanne and her group. my dad and Martha, Missy and hers, and my mom. It was a full house!! And lots of good food to go along with the awesome family!

The Tea Party

2009-12-06T06:48:00.005-06:00

During Thanksgiving we came up with the idea of having things that helped Lindsey R. distinguish between pretend and real. This was our tea party with the cute hats and all. It was so much fun. Aunt Lindsey was such a great pretended and Holly loves pretending with her sister. Lindsey R. is playing a lot of pretend right with the doors. Ity's lots of fun!

Lindsey and the Swing

2009-10-27T18:20:00.001-05:00

Lindsey has discovered the joy of swinging.

2009-09-07T07:33:00.007-05:00

It was a busy weekend. We went to Lubbock on Saturday. The District had a youth temple trip so we thought it would be fun for all of us to go and take turns going watching kids while some were at the temple. We hit one little snag when we didn't make the 9 am. Billy, Maebeth, Ma and I ended up in the 10:30 (they've changed the schedule a little). Kyle and Kisha had the kids at one of the many cool parks, then picked up lunch and met us on the church grounds for a picnic. Then it was Maebeth, Ma and my turn to watch the kids while they went and Billy helped with the baptisms. We had talked about going to the Science Spectrum but we weren't sure we would have time so we went to another cool park. Turns out we probably had plenty of time so we'll know next time. Then we headed home, stopped in Andrews for Billy's favorite steaks fingers and got home about 9 pm. It was a long day. We started out at 5 am so we were all pretty tired. Then yesterday we had William's first birthday. It was so much fun. Here are a few pictures.

everytime he would open a fun toy, they would take it away and give him another. He wasn't too sure he liked this

this is Will finding his friend in the mirror, he really loves him

Holly is two!

2009-08-19T19:13:00.010-05:00

Our Holly is now two.

Her Grandma and Grandpa Rasband sent her horses
Ma and Aunt Rhonda got her a funny new baby that giggles

She got makeup from her mom and dad
and a special color book that only colors on the book
And Daddy brings in the best gift, her new fish from her mom and dad
she likes her fish
her momma made a special cake
and she loved it

She spent the evening with Grumpa before he went to his church meetings

Charlotte is really working on crawling

Holly on Jazzy

2009-08-13T04:44:00.002-05:00

And Here's Miss Holly ridin' Jazzy

Lindsey riding

2009-08-12T12:29:00.005-05:00

Just thought I'd share some videos

Ridin'

2009-08-12T12:06:00.005-05:00

So today Kisha took Jazzy to the arena for the girls to ride. She has been workin gon him to load and unload from the trailer, which is his only fault so far, and felt like she could get him in and out. I went to watch. We've been excited about Lindsey being able to ride. Her therapy last year with the horse back riding did so much to help her balance that we wanted to be sure there was someway for her to continue that here. Jazzy is prefect for her and all the grandkids. He is just the sweetest old man.
Charloote could care less about ridin' a horse, she just loves to sit and kick her feet.

Billy had to put a new whole in the leather, Jazz is a little fat
First Holly got to ride

Then Miss Linsey had to pull herself up into the saddle, lots of work but she did it

And she did a great job!

2009-08-10T10:11:00.002-05:00

We have all been out of town so much this summer, we haven't been out to the ranch together in awhile so Sat. Billy wanted to check the fence for problems. He and Kisha rode it out and found a few places that needed some attention. The rest of us met them at the big barn around lunch and had a picnic, then went and played, some on four wheelers, some on horse back and as always some of us on the mule watching Billy work because that's what he enjoys (I'm the one watching along with several grandkids that just like being with us). It was fun. The boys also took their guns out and practiced shooting cans and bottles down in the big pit. Got a little hot around 3 but a great great day. I love having Maebeth and Kisha so close. I have always loved it when the girls live close by and I have been lucky enough that I have had all of them at one time or another after they grew up and left home!!
Richard and Mr. William, he is getting so big!
Noland and Caleb taking off on the little yellow 4wheeler
Evan just always loves going with Grandy and Grumpa, he eventually went with the boys on the 4-wheelers. But that was after we finished the fence. He was busy catching locusts and telling us all about them.
Here's the crew we had helping us. Holly and Charlotte fell asleep on our way back to the barn
one of the cows just watching what we are doing
Billy hard at work

Believe it or not Kisha got Kyle up on a horse. He'll never be the same after he lives here.
Holly needed to get up and ride too when she saw them but it didn't last long. Kisha is riding Jazzie. She wanted to check him out before we took him to the house for the kids to ride. He's prefect except one thing, He doesn't like to unload from the trailer, other than that he will be great for any of the kids so come to see us Katie!!
Will and Maebeth, she had just got done riding the 4-wheeler and was taking a little break! Will had fallen asleep while riding with her.
What a great day, looking forward to many more.

Our Cruise

2009-07-29T09:55:00.005-05:00

So when Lindsey graduated with her masters we told her we would take her on a cruise. We had never been on a cruise and were real excited about going. We took the Carnival Glory cruise which goes to the Bahams, St. Thomas and ST. Marteen. It was great. I have never been so spoiled in my life and truly truly relaxed. We had no phone, no computer (we could have but the price was outrageous) so we were totally cut off from Billy's work, the fire dept. and the Sherriff's office and the bookstore. We didn't really like not talking to the girls but Billy did take his statelite phone so we could check in every once in a while. It was the best vacation ever!! I can't wait to go again. Leanne says this is what she wants when she gets her masters so I can't wait. Billy liked it so much that we might just go before then, who knows.
our room was really roomy, we didn't expect that.

our view.
at the Bahamas just off the ship for our first excursion
this is our ship
we went clear bottom kayaking, which was fun but then we snorkled and that was way better!
Lindsey and Les

on the ship, you can see some storms in the background. We didn't know there was a tropical depression going on

This was at St.Thomas
We went to the beach to play and you can see the wave that beat me up, knocked me down and dislocated my elbow
here I am saying o nooooo I think my arm is broken, it looked broken, it was completely seperated and the bones sitting beside each other. This is the last picture we took at St. Thomas, can you imagine
St. Marteens: This is where I went while Billy, Lindsey and Les went scuba diving, I was supposed to go snorkling because I don't have a diving license but needless to say that wasn't going to happen with my injury so I went to a butterfly farm. They didn't want to leave me but I insisted. I didn't want their fun to be ruined and I was fine. The butterfly farm was interesting
here we are dancing the night away. They had a great country and western band along with every imaginable activity all day long
there were two fromal nights, here Lindsey and Les were dressed up for the second.
So that was a little bit of our trip. I have so many more pictures but I don't want to post them all. Hope you enjoyed!!

2009-07-12T03:06:00.004-05:00

What a week. Drama camp with six of my grandkids. Youth Conference with one ( can't hardly believe it) and during all of this my floors being ripped out and replaced. What a mess but we finished drama camp with two performances of Alice in Wonderland on Saturday, finished YC with testimonies on Saturday and almost finished with the floors. It was getting a little crazy!

Riley worked backstage for Alice in Wonderland
first morning of youth conference
their theme
Katie as a card
Nolan was the executioner
Caleb as Tweedle Dee
Jack as Tweedle Dum
Sydney as Alice
The whole cast, we had 49 kids participate!
The crazy boys

2009-07-03T08:29:00.002-05:00

When Riley and Bobby were very little we finally had a tree that was big enough to build a little treehouse in so we began. I'm not sure how many hands were involved in building this treehouse but it was an on going project that only required a hammer, some nails and any scrap piece of lumber we could find. The kids always loved doing it. The would spend hours hauling boards and hammering in the treehouse. I went up on occasion to help them and loved it too. Now we weren't experts at this building and I could see that lately the little treehouse was not looking too sturdy. It troubled me a bit so this summer I decided we needed to tear it down and start again. Me and the boys did just that at the beginning of summer. My lindsey was not very happy about us doing this. She told me there were a lot of memories in that treehouse and she didn't like it that we tore it down. So I decided that when she came to visit we would build it back and that was good because Jack was here and he got to help. Jack and Caleb and Lindsey and I all built the treehouse back to a much better state, one that I can live with and not worry about. And the tree has grown a lot so we were able to expand. We now have a three story treehouse with really nice floors. Needless to say I am sore today from building but it was fun and there are still lots of things that can be done with the treehouse for the other kids. Katie and Evan helped haul off the bad wood and Sydney slept through the whole thing but played in it later.

Lindsey inspecting the work.

you can't see them through the foliage but they are there working

Katie and Evan needed a break so they were eating homemade icecream under the tree.

two stories!!

much bigger now!

2009-06-28T19:10:00.007-05:00

For my birthday Billy decided to take me to Alpine for the weekend and finish a trip we made last year for our anniversary when the really bad fire happened in Monahans and we had to discontinue our trip and head home. So we went back to the museum, which is not real big but very interesting, lots of info about the area, the inhabitants over the centuries and the archaeological digs going on in the area. We relaxed at the hotel pool and hot tub, we ate dinner at a place called Alpine City Limits which was outstanding, and discovered that the Theater of the Big Bend was having their opening weekend this weekend so we went to the play "Will Rogers Follies" which was great and the added bonus was that President Brooks, brother Clark and his daughter Maddie were in the play. They did and outstanding job. The first time I met Maddie she reminded me of Sydney and now I kind of understand why. She doesn't look anything like her, she just has this demeanor about her, and I guess it is that essence of the stage. The next morning we went to church in Alpine which is always a treat. They have so many young families there with young kids and babies. It is great.

We are at the museum and yes he is on the phone but there were only a few calls so not too bad.

I've always loved his sense of style!

just hangin' out in the hot tub

here's a really good picture of Billy!

So guess what I got for my birthday!

2009-06-26T14:32:00.003-05:00

My daughters are always talking me into doing things and I never want to but I do because they insist I will love it. They talked me into blogging and I do love it. Now they have talked me into being on Facebook. At first I thought "I do not have time to do one more thing on a computer" but then I started receiving friend requests. And to my great astonishment I found some old girlfriends from school whom I had not talked to in years. They all live in Odessa so I told them the next time I was there we would meet for lunch and just have a good chat. And we did. We spent 3 hours talking at Rosa's. I couldn't believe it. I had no idea that we had been talking that long. I felt like I had gone through a time machine and we were all the same young girls we were when we were in High School. It was so much fun. So I will probably keep doing the things my daughters talk me into because so far they haven't led me astray. They are so good to me.

me and my girlfriends, Debbie, Deanna, Me, and Sharon!! aren't we cute.

Father's Day

2009-06-21T17:42:00.002-05:00

So I don't know if you can tell much about it but here's Billy's Father's Day gift. It's metal artwork that a guy did for me with a family around a dinner table giving thanks. The original he had was with a boy and girl and I asked if he could make it with four girls. He thought he could and when he brought it to me I was impressed. It's really cute and Billy loved it. He couldn't wait to get it up. I think you have to see it in person to really appreciate it. He put it on the front fence as you go into the driveway.

Family Reunion

2009-06-19T06:22:00.002-05:00

The boat driver

the awesome knee boarder

Our family reunion was at LBJ Lake. We had two houses, one for my clan, 21 in all and one for the rest of the family , 14 in all. I always bringing the biggest portion. It was great. Our house had a beach where the kids just played and played. We had a couple of boats and some waverunners. I knee boarded. Not bad for an old lady. Billy took me on one of the wave runners and scared the peewaddley out of me. It was fun too even though I kept thinking how bad it was going to hurt if we crazed and hit the water going 55 miles an hour. Some of the kids burned, one bad, the rest not so bad and some not at all. It was hard to keep on top of all of them and make sure they were sunscreening. But they had a blast. Nolan was a little bummed that he didn't get to ski but he did do a lot of knee boarding and finally got the 360 turn down. Riley too. Sydney tried and tried but just couldn't quit get there. Oh and I road the tube with my sister Missy. We laughed so hard several times I just slid off from laughing. Great weekend!

My sister is a Grandma!

2009-05-30T06:06:00.004-05:00

My sister Melissa doesn't do blogging yet so I'm blogging for her because she is now a grandma and so excited to be one. This pretty little girl is named Julia, she weighed 8 lbs. 6 oz. and was 20 1/2 inches long. She belongs to Melissa's son Dustin and his girlfriend Sarah. They are thrilled and I can't wait to see this precious little one in person. We're just growing in leeps and bounds now and finally, someone besides me, among my syblings, is a grandparent. Yeah!!!! That now makes 12 great grandkids for my parents.

busy busy busy

2009-05-21T08:44:00.003-05:00

So we made another tirp to Fort Worth last weekend. This time Lindsey graduated with her masters and we drove so we could take a trailer and haul some of Kisha and Kyle's stuff back with us. Robin and Bobby made the trip with us. It was fun and we were so proud of our little girl. Didn't get to see much of the Bell family, they were on the run but Jess and Jack came and helped load the trailer on Saturday. We met Mark's step brother. No one knew that Mark's step brother was a member of Kisha and Kyle's ward but we found out Saturday. Mark is Jesse's brother-in-law and it just happened that Mark and Laura were visiting for the weekend and somehow two and two came together when he came to help load the trailer. It's so funny how small the world is, and how interrelated we all are.
We got everything done early Saturday and had planned on staying to check out Fun Days in Justin but it was raining so it was canceled. So we went to eat lunch, took and nap and headed back to Monahans where everyone else around us got rain and not a drop here. That's ok, we'll get it eventually. It was nice to have all of Sunday to recover. Went to church in Pecos to take care of district business. Life is all good. Now I am waiting to here from my youngest sister. She is waiting to officially become a grnadmother, waiting impatiently for a little girl to come and fill her arms.

a little more

2009-05-12T15:23:00.002-05:00

Almost forgot, I got to spend Mother's Day watching my latest little granddaughter receive her name and blessing. What a great thing to do on Mother's Day. My quiver is full to say the least.

It's My life and I like it

2009-05-12T15:02:00.003-05:00

Maybe I can catch up. I haven't blogged in a while not because I haven't wanted to but because I have just been going 90 to nothing trying to get everything done. First I spent quit a bit of time doing the Sandhills Civic Theater Production Honkey Tonk Angels as the props mistress again. I think I'm getting the hang of it now and I like helping out. It's so important to me because I want some really neat things to be a part of Monahans and these productions could make us stand out in the crowd as being a little artsy. Evelyn is sooo talented. She may be hard to work with sometimes but it's because she actually knows what she is doing where as some people who get offended may not take her direction so well but it's ok, we can get past these things. The ones who really love doing do hang around and do know what her talents are.
Next I said I would have the spring luncheon at my house for the Garden Club. That may not seem like a big deal to some but it is for me. I was not able to take proper care of my yard last fall because of the injury I received to my poor head so my flowers beds were horrible which required a lot of work just to get them back in shape. I wanted to have it on my back porch and the flower beds needed to be just so! I worked my tail off....well not quit but I was exhausted and a nervous wreck by the time it all happened. It turned out to be so great. I loved having everyone there and I'm so glad I did it, thank you Maebeth. Nothing like having company over to make you get busy and get things back in order. But I don't want to do it again anytime soon. Just too stressful for me and I'm getting old and slow. I don't get things done as fast as I used to.
And then there's the whole "both my girls are graduating" thing. We went to Leanne's last weekend to watch her walk the stage and receive her Batchelors which was awesome. I was so proud of her and her family who has supported her all the way through this. This weekend it's Lindsey and her masters, wow way to go girls!
Between all these things are the things that just go on all the time, you know, the store, making candy for Mother's Day, seminary, book clubs, you know just the things I do normally. I also decided to start a veggie garden again. So busy, busy, busy...I will try to post some pictures of all these great and wonderful events in my life but I am having a problem with my computer at home. It is so slow I can't stand it. I don't have time to wait for the silly thing.
Love Ya!!!!!

TEA

2009-04-17T05:01:00.002-05:00

Viki Yates and I decided we would attend one of the many TEA Parties in our area on Wednesday. I had no idea what to expect but was very glad I went. At the party we went to in Odessa, they had several speakers but the one that impressed me the most was a young man, 18 years old. He expressed himself with true insight on what the problems are in our government and why sooo many are really frustrated by it. He talked about it not being either a Democratic or Republican problem but both. We have been let down by the people who have told us they would represent us. It was a great talk and really hit the mark. I couldn't believe how young he was and how insightful he came across. Anyway there were close to 300 hundred people at the party we went to. I was surprised but pleased. I went because I decided that if I am unhappy with what is going on then I need to do more than just complain, I need to make my voice heard. Viki was so funny. She said she got through the 60's without ever once protesting but told her son she won't make it through her 60's without it, so there we were protesting against the run away spending, the bailouts, the big government, the over taxation, and the bill that will affect our grandchildren. Yeah, it reality the real problems won't hit us that hard but our grandchildren are going to be saddled with the problems created now by the borrowing from the future policies of our government, republican and democrat alike.
So I have become a protestor. I am protesting against borrowng from the future. In our personal lives we should pay as we go. If we do this we never get into trouble and it may mean we make do with what we have but it's the policy that works best. Our government should live by the same policy. I am protesting against over taxation and the unfairness of the tax system we have. It kills small businesses. Yeah everybody likes to believe that it takes from the ultra wealthy but all it does it make it impossible to actually make money in a small business without having to pay out your nose which decreases the ability to hire more employees and also to provide inusrance for those employees. If we keep going the direction we are going, before long all the cute little businesses that we love to go check out when we are traveling because they aren't the cookie cutter stores, will be a thing of the past. They won't survive the taxation policies of only taxing the wealthy. I am protesting the way we are taxed. Let's really make it fair. Has anybody ever sat down and counted up just how much we pay in taxes. I mean we have income tax, social security tax, sales tax, property tax, inheritance tax, for businesses there is inventory tax, franchise tax, capital gains tax, my gosh.....how much tax are we willing to pay. I wouldn't mind if it went where it was supposed to go and I am not purposing that we quit paying taxes because I like the programs they support basically. I do think there can be to much government interferance into what should be private industry. But why am I paying for all these perks in the government and why when we are facing such huge financial problems are our politicians not being more careful about the way they spend the money raised by taxes. Fiscal responsibility is important in all aspects of life including the government.
There you go. That's only a part of what I am upset about, there is lots more. So as the TEA parties grow, I will be there and make a statement. We need a real change not just talk. I am ready to listen to someone who actually makes the changes, I am calling for our government to quit being so iresponsible and really stand up for what is right. That's why I have become a protestor this late in life. Yep!! just an old protestor, hoping that my grandchildren won't loose what I got to experience in this life living in America.

Great anniversary

2009-04-12T20:39:00.003-05:00

Friday was mine and Billy's 27th wedding anniversary. We made it without a fire, it was awesome. We spent the day working around the house, he tilled my garden for me and I planted part of it but left some for Maebeth and the boys because they like to garden, especially Nolan. I had to go to work in the afternoon but he worked on my swim tank, putting up a fence and gate so we have no accidents. I closed the store early and we went out to eat at Red Lobster, which was where we went for our first Valentines date and where I knew I was in deep trouble. Then we went to Sam's and bought him a Gramin because he loves my navigation system in the Tahoe and if he has one in his truck, he won't mind driving in the horrible traffic where our daughters live. And he decided I needed an electric griddle so we bought that too, even though he had already given me a great gift. He had my swimming tank coated so it wouldn't rust up anymore and I can't wait for the kids to be able to go swimming now. Then we came home and just spent a great night together. Saturday the wind was so bad we didn't do too much outside. He put some ribs on his new pit. And we did go to the ranch in the afternoon but guess what. He had to go to a fire. They had one north of Pyote about the time we got to the ranch. We got everything fed and he dropped me by the house so he could go. When we were at the ranch we just knew it was going to ran. Well, it did, finally and thank goodness because if it hadn't been for that they were going to be in trouble with this fire, the way the wind was switching back and forth. Billy said God just decided they had worked hard enough, opened up the clouds and let it pour. I fell asleep before he got home. So after a great Easter today I can say that our anniversary turned out great, we had a fire but not on Friday!!

Greatest Family Ever!!!

2009-04-12T16:47:00.004-05:00

Some more pictures from Dad's birthday!!
Zach, Bobby and Jesse

Dad, Martha and her kids, Terza and Johnny with Terza's husband Scooter and her kids, Clara and Thomas.

Lot's of candles but not as many as it should have been.

The notorious egg is now in his possesion, so watch out!!

Sara and Jesse

Les and Miss Lindsey R. He is partial to Lindseys.

Jennifer and Holly

Dad and Robin

Dad checking out his newest great granddaughter.

Zach watching from Grandpa

Holly needed her Grupa

Sydney, and Riley's nose

Sara and Dustin

All my girls including Jennifer!!

Lindsey and Les
Sara, Billy and Dustin

The kids always play so good together.

Kenny Amy and Telly

Missy and Steve

Daddy' 77th Surprise Birthday

2009-04-06T09:56:00.007-05:00

We decided to have a party for Dad on his 77th. I know, it's kind of strange but who would ever suspect your kids are giving you a surprise for your 77th. It was great. All his kids were their, he was only missing his grandson Tyrel and grandson-in-law Richard B.

This was Friday night. Can you imagine what the waitress thought when she had to serve this group. We ate in Marbel Falls just so we wouldn't accidentally run into Dad and Martha.
Melissa and Jennifer, she's still her momma's baby girl.

Dad's grandson Bobby Erwin and his most recent great grandson William Paul Barmore

Dustin and Sara are going to have their very own little girl in May so we thought it would be good practice for him to hold Kisha newest daughter Charlotte.

I think we really surprised him. He walked in,

Then sut the door.

Came back in,

Gave hugs and kisses

And cried!! Yes he was surprised and very touched.

And here is his family!!

There are a lot more pictures, I'll post more later.

Bitysy's Shower

2009-03-31T09:47:00.002-05:00

We had a shower for Bitsy Saturday. Her little boy is due in just a couple of weeks and look how cute she is. We had a lot of fun despite several things that were going on the same day which is always the way. She received a lot of nice gifts from friends and family. Sylvia even made it which surprised us all considering she had had knee surgery just a little over a week before the shower. Can't wait to see Bitsy with her baby boy. I know she is going to make a wonderful mom.

Reaching goals

2009-03-26T08:08:00.001-05:00

"To reach a goal you have never before attained, you must do things you have never before done."--Richard G. Scott, "Finding the Way Back," Ensign, May 1990, 74

Kindness

2009-03-25T09:42:00.000-05:00

"Kindness is the essence of greatness and the fundamental characteristic of the noblest men and women I have known. Kindness is a passport that opens doors and fashions friends. It softens hearts and molds relationships that can last lifetimes."--Joseph B. Wirthlin, "The Virtue of Kindness", Liahona, May 2005, 26–28

Some more of our Charlotte

2009-03-22T20:00:00.001-05:00

Still in love with Grumpa.

That's my baby sister.

Boy is he in trouble now, four girls in the house.

Lindsey did a lot better with Charlotte than with Holly.

More of our Charlotte

2009-03-22T17:47:00.002-05:00

Holly was fascinated!!

Little Charly was not to happy about being out! She does have a nice set of lungs.

Charlotte

2009-03-20T15:08:00.004-05:00

Okay so I got scolded about not having any pictures of Charlotte up so here they are. These aren't ones I took but I'll have those when I get back home.

New baby

2009-03-19T09:02:00.002-05:00

So we finally had a little girl. Kisha was in labor for an hour and forty five minutes I think. It all happened so fast that I don't really remember. Kyle called her his NASCAR baby. We barely made it to the hospital. All very exciting and different. No pain killers, no epidural, nothing, just a little pushing and there she was!! We thought Kisha would be home today because it was so easy and she felt great but she tested for strep and since she had her so fast they weren't able to do what needed to be done to protect Charlotte so that means another night in the hospital. She is not happy. Baby's name is Charlotte Hannah and she weighed 7 ounds and 4 ounces. She was 20 inches long, has dark hair and we don't know who she looks like, mostly she just looks like her. I can't post pictures until I get back home but I have a ton. I remembered my camera yeah!!!! Leanne did post on her blog so you an go there to see them.

Protecting our children

2009-03-19T08:55:00.000-05:00

"With the influences of evil that surround our children, can we even imagine sending them out in the morning without kneeling and humbly asking together for the Lord's protection? Or closing the day without kneeling together and acknowledging our accountability before Him and our thankfulness for His blessings? Brothers and sisters, we need to have family prayer."--Neil L. Andersen, "Prophets and Spiritual Mole Crickets," Ensign, Nov. 1999, 17
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Thought for

2009-03-16T08:29:00.000-05:00

"Service to others deepens and sweetens this life while we are preparing to live in a better world. It is by serving that we learn to serve. When we are engaged in the service of our fellowmen, not only do our deeds assist them, but we put our own problems in a fresher perspective. When we concern ourselves more with others, there is less time to be concerned with ourselves! In the midst of the miracle of serving, there is the promise of Jesus that by losing ourselves, we find ourselves!" --Spencer W. Kimball, "Speaks Out on Service to Others", New Era, Mar. 1981, 47
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The Power to heal

2009-03-14T02:29:00.000-05:00

"Just as the lame man at the pool of Bethesda needed someone stronger than himself to be healed (see John 5:1-9), so we are dependent on the miracles of Christ's atonement if our souls are to be made whole from grief, sorrow, and sin."--Merrill J. Bateman, "The Power to Heal from Within", Ensign, May 1995, 13
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So Right

2009-03-13T06:36:00.001-05:00

At the heart of the message of the Savior of the world is a single, glorious, wonderful, still largely untried concept. In its simplest terms the message is that we should seek to overcome the selfishness we all seem to be born with, that we should overcome human nature and think of others before self."--James E. Faust, "A Pattern of Love," Ensign, Dec. 1999, 2

A Thought For Today

2009-03-12T06:34:00.000-05:00

We should not be discouraged or depressed by our shortcomings. No one is without weakness. As part of the divine plan, we are tested to see whether we master weakness or let weakness master us. Proper diagnosis is essential to proper treatment. The Lord gave us this remarkable assurance: "Because thou hast seen thy weakness thou shalt be made strong" (Ether 12:37). But wishing for strength won't make us strong. It takes faith and work to shore up a weakened cord of integrity." --Russell M. Nelson, "Integrity of Heart", Ensign, Aug. 1995, 19
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A good thought for today

2009-03-11T10:34:00.001-05:00

I too believe that God will always make a way where there is no way. I believe that if we will walk in obedience to the commandments of God, if we will follow the counsel of the priesthood, he will open a way even where there appears to be no way."--Gordon B. Hinckley, "If Ye Be Willing and Obedient", Ensign, Jul 1995, 2
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Thought for my daughters

2009-03-10T06:56:00.001-05:00

"No matter what circumstances you sisters experience, your influence can be marvelously far-reaching. I believe some of you have a tendency to underestimate your profound capacity for blessing the lives of others. More often than not, it is not on the stage with some public pronouncement but in your example of righteousness and the countless gentle acts of love and kindness done so willingly, so often on a one-to-one basis."--James E. Faust, "You Are All Heaven Sent," Ensign, Nov. 2002, 110
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Home

2009-03-07T06:20:00.000-06:00

"There is no substitute for kindness in the home."--Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Ensign, May 2005,

Goats, dogs, and treehouses

2009-03-04T18:51:00.003-06:00

We slid down the slide. I had to do it too. And we climbed in the treehouse. We decided that we are going to have to redo this treehouse. So we drug up a whole bunch of scrape lumber left from the cement forms the brickers used. We should be able to do great work with these.

We rode in the mule and bumped our nogins because we went too fast over the bumps. But we both laughed a lot.

We played with the cutest baby goats.

We had to keep Punky from going in the pen and licking the babys to death.

Those babys were just too cute to keep our hands off.

It was a busy day with Katie. We thought she was going home today but no, she got to stay one more night and then I know she better go back home as much as we would all like for her to stayand go back with Aunt Maebeth. Her daddy says he's already in trouble. She has an open house tomorrow. We don't get her often so now we are worn out!!! Might be good that she has to go home....naaaahhhhhh!!!we could find some energy somewhere I'm sure.

2009-03-04T08:08:00.002-06:00

So we had a really nice treat this week. Jesse had to do some work here in Monahans and he brought Katie with him. They got here late Monday night. He had to stop in Midland on the way but yesterday Katie and I spent the morning together. I had a garden club workday so I just took her with me. We bought her some work gloves and she had her own little shovel, everyone thought she was delightful. She also helped with Mr. William by pushing him around in the stroller which he loved. Then she spent the afternoon playing with Evan. It was a big surprise for Evan because they weren't supposed to get to stay but things came up that Jesse had to stay and take care of, so she and Maebeth picked Evan up from school. When Grumpa got done with the fire he was called out on, they headed for the ranch. No four wheelers though, drat. They did get to see a new baby calf and that makes Katie happy. Now she is at her Grandma Silvers and Papa's house. They will be going home today, we are soooo sad. We don't get to see any of them nearly enough.

Thought for Today

2009-03-04T08:07:00.000-06:00

As children of God we are somebody. He will build us, mold us, and magnify us if we will but hold our heads up, our arms out, and walk with him."--Marvin J. Ashton, "In His Strength," Ensign, July 1973, 24
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Yep, had to happen

2009-03-01T12:27:00.002-06:00

Well, Matt is now a district councilman and he is the 1st counselor to Brother Sparkman in the District young men's presidency. He runs but he can't hide.

Happiness

2009-03-01T07:56:00.001-06:00

"Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God"--Joseph Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 255-56

Love these Thoughts

2009-03-01T07:54:00.000-06:00

Certainly one of our God-given privileges is the right to choose what our attitude will be in any given set of circumstances. We can let the events that surround us determine our actions—or we can personally take charge and rule our lives, using as guidelines the principles of pure religion. Pure religion is learning the gospel of Jesus Christ and then putting it into action. Nothing will ever be of real benefit to us until it is incorporated into our own lives."--Marvin J. Ashton, "Pure Religion", Ensign, Nov. 1982, 63

An Angel says, 'Never borrow from the future.. If you worry about what may happen tomorrow and it doesn't happen, you have worried in vain. Even if it does happen, you have to worry twice.'
1. Pray 2. Go to bed on time. 3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed. 4. Say No to projects that won't fit into your time schedule, or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others. 6. Simplify and unclutter your life. 7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many.) 8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things all together. 10. Take one day at a time. 11. Separate worries from concerns . If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety . If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it. 12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.
13. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc. 14. K.M.S. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble. 15. Do something for the Kid in You everyday.
16. Carry an inspirational book and/or the Bible with you to read while waiting in line. 17. Get enough rest. 18. Eat right. 19 Get organized so everything has its place.
20. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life. 21. Write down thoughts and inspirations. 22. Every day, find time to be alone. 23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray. 24. Make friends with godly people.
25. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand. 26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you Jesus .' 27. Laugh. 28. Laugh some more! 29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all. 30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).
31. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most). 32. Sit on your ego. 33 Talk less; listen more. 34. Slow down. 35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe. 36 Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you've never been grateful for before.
GOD HAS A WAY OF TURNING THINGS AROUND FOR YOU. 'If God is for us, who can be against us?' (Romans 8:31)

Spring is Coming, Yeah!!!

2009-02-27T17:04:00.003-06:00

He's spotted something.

I'm not sure what it is but it's important.

I have to say that working in my flower beds is very rewarding to me. That's what I did today with one of my best helpers, Mr. Evan. He loves to help me plant flowers. He talks alot and I'm used to the quit when I work outside in my flower gardens so it's a little different when he's helping, lots of questions to answer, things to see. The front flower bed is now nicely cleaned up and has some petunias planted. They will do well even if it freezes.

So we get the news about Richard

2009-02-23T08:56:00.002-06:00

Well, we all knew that there was going to be some changes in the Branch because The Blairs are moving which has saddened the whole branch. We loved the Blairs but as he said God has made it very clear that it's time for them to go elsewhere. He no longer has a job at the Pyote facility but he was able to get one in Gainesville, thank goodness. We had all been vbery worried about them. Yesterday was Branch conference. Richard had an interveiw with President Witcher last week before he headed back to Artesia and Friday night Richard and Maebeth went and met with President Bell. That's always a really bad sign. I know what happens when you're leaders call the wife in. Something that is going to require sacrifice on her part also. I don't think any of you will be surprised to find out that he is now the 1st counselor in the Branch Presidency but it might surprise all of you to know that Matt was released and Greg is now the second counselor and the Young Men's president. Matt doesn't have a calling at the moment but that won't last long. Even Brother Bryer was realeased from being the Branch Clerk. That won't last either, he's too valuable to let sit idle for long. So now our Branch Clerk is Malcham Williams, his assistant is Stanley, a new member, and the executive secretarty is Brother McKenzie. It was all very interesting. We knew Brother Blair would be replaced but we had no idea that so much would change. The really funny thing though was the advice that President Witcher was giving to the wives in his talk yesterday. He said they needed to prepare themselves for less time with their husbands and I thought, goodness, if Maebeth has any less time with Richard she won't get to see him. This is actually good for them because now he won't have to go on speaking assignments for the District and will be able to be home on Sundays for a change. So I think in the long run, she gets more time. It's a blessing. We had a great conference, lot's of people including some that have not been coming like the Eatons, Sister Swan, and we had an investigator from Kermit. It was really a great conference. Lot's of wonderful talks and the spirit filled all our hearts.

Thought for Today

2009-02-23T08:56:00.001-06:00

"Challenges, difficulties, questions, doubts—these are part of our mortality. But we are not alone. As disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have enormous spiritual reservoirs of light and truth available to us. Fear and faith cannot coexist in our hearts at the same time. In our days of difficulty, we choose the road of faith."--Elder Neil L. Andersen, "You Know Enough", Ensign, Nov 2008, 13–14
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Good Thought

2009-02-21T06:37:00.000-06:00

"If we choose the wrong road, we choose the wrong destination."--Elder Dallin H. Oaks, "Be Not Deceived," Ensign, November 2004, 44

2009-02-20T16:19:00.000-06:00

The fun thing about Maebeth living here now, is that I get to go watch the boys do their thing. Yesterday I was able to go see Nolan at his first swim meet. It reminded me of watching his mom and his Aunt Missy way back when they were on the swim team.

So here he is finishing the free style.

Mattie Williams is also on the swim team, that was an extra bonus. The Williams live down the street from us and we spend a lot of time with them and their girls.

And the other fun thing is spending time with Evan. He loves to give me flowers, today I got the prettiest little weeds ever.

First he picks them.

Then we must put them in a vase and display them nicely on the table.

Pennies

2009-02-20T11:23:00.001-06:00

You always hear the usual stories of pennies on the sidewalk being good luck, gifts from angels, etc. This is the first time I've ever heard this twist on the story. Gives you something to think about.Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spend the weekend at the husband's employer's home. My friend, Arlene, was nervous about the weekend. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway, and cars costing more than her houseThe first day and evening went well, and Arlene was delighted to have this rare glimpse into how the very wealthy live. The husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants. Arlene knew she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this kind of extravagance again, so was enjoying herself immensely.As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of Arlene and her husband.He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment.Arlene wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny.He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure. How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny? Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up?Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her. Finally, she could stand it no longer. She casually mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some value.A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the point of this?'Look at it.' He said. 'Read what it says.' She read the words ' United States of America ''No, not that; read further.''One cent?' 'No, keep reading.''In God we Trust?' 'Yes!' 'And?''And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin Whenever I find a coin I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin, but we never seem to notice it! God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him? Who am I to pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him. For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me. Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful!When I was out shopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I cannot change. I read the words, 'In God We Trust,' and had to laugh. Yes, God, I get the message.It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last few months, but then, pennies are plentiful! And, God is patient..

The Five Love Languages

2009-02-18T08:50:00.000-06:00

We had such a good time last night at book club. The book was great, the discussion was great and I think we all learned a little about ourselves and those we love. It was at Robin's home and she had spaghetti, bread sticks and salad along with fresh fruit and chocolate fondue. MMM...MMM...good. Before I knew it was 9:30pm. I usually try to leave before 9 but ther was just lots of discussion and we all wanted to take the test. I hadn't taken the test so I was surprised to find out that my second love language is physical. But after I thought about it it made sense. I love being hugged, I tend to hug a lot. I thought it was just because I grew up in a huggy family but since I have two daughters that don't particularly like that I know it's really just a basic part of who I am. I wasn't surprised at all about my first love language, quality time. I didn't realize that was what I needed most until I thought about it while reading the book and everything just said quality time is really me. Spending time with the people I love is very filling to me and I hate when they are so far away that I can't see them more than I do. Getting quality time from Billy has been a real struggle in our relationship but we have worked out some interesting ways to do that even before the realization that I needed it. I do resent his phone a lot, but because he is so good to pay attention to me on a larger scale I do my best to try to work past that problem. When I get to go to the ranch with him it is the greatest because he can't get a signal out there in several areas so I have him all to myself, no phone, yeah!!! Anyhow if you haven't read the book, you might try it. I think you'll find it very interesting.

This is good!!

2009-02-17T09:28:00.000-06:00

"We should learn to be patient with ourselves. Recognizing our strengths and our weaknesses, we should strive to use good judgment in all of our choices and decisions, make good use of every opportunity, and do our best in every task we undertake. We should not be unduly discouraged nor in despair at any time when we are doing the best we can. Rather, we should be satisfied with our progress even though it may come slowly at times." --Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Patience, a Key to Happiness", Ensign, May 1987, 30
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My Thoughts for Today

2009-02-15T07:54:00.000-06:00

"We may have much that worries us, and we may find many reasons to be concerned. Yet, as President Spencer W. Kimball observed, peace and the Savior's doctrine of forgiveness are inseparably connected: The essence of forgiveness is that it brings peace to the previously anxious, restless, frustrated, perhaps tormented soul." --Cecil O. Samuelson Jr., "Words of Jesus: Forgiveness", Ensign, Feb. 2003, 48

"Each of us will taste the bitter ashes of life, from sin and neglect to sorrow and disappointment. But the atonement of Christ can lift us up in beauty from our ashes on the wings of a sure promise of immortality and eternal life. He will thus lift us up, not only at the end of life, but in each day of our lives." --Bruce C. Hafen, "Beauty for Ashes: The Atonement of Jesus Christ, Liahona", Apr. 1997, 39

Thought for Today

2009-02-10T11:06:00.001-06:00

"The path to eternal life is not on a plateau. Rather, it is an incline, ever onward and upward. Hence, ever-increasing spiritual understanding and energy are required to reach our destination. Because the pernicious opposition by Satan continues, the continuous enlightened guidance of the Holy Ghost is absolutely essential." --Elder Keith K. Hilbig, "Quench Not the Spirit Which Quickens the Inner Man", October 2007 General Conference
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Thought for Today

2009-02-09T09:11:00.000-06:00

"What is our response when we are offended, misunderstood, unfairly or unkindly treated, or sinned against, made an offender for a word, falsely accused, passed over, hurt by those we love, our offerings rejected? Do we resent, become bitter, hold a grudge? Or do we resolve the problem if we can, forgive, and rid ourselves of the burden? The nature of our response to such situations may well determine the nature and quality of our lives, here and eternally. A courageous friend, her faith refined by many afflictions, said to me only hours ago, "Humiliation must come before exaltation." It is required of us to forgive. Our salvation depends upon it." --Marion D. Hanks, "Forgiveness The Ultimate Form of Love", Ensign Jan. 1974, 20
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Thought For Today

2009-02-07T09:39:00.001-06:00

"Let us remember, too, that greatness is not always a matter of the scale of one’s life, but of the quality of one’s life. True greatness is not always tied to the scope of our tasks, but to the quality of how we carry out our tasks whatever they are. In that attitude, let us give our time, ourselves, and our talents to the things that really matter now, things which will still matter a thousand years from now."--Spencer W. Kimball, "A Gift of Gratitude", Tambuli, Dec 1977
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2009-02-06T09:56:00.000-06:00

Whoops I forgot to put in Evan's picture. He did the peewee show and Riley helped him.

Thought for Today

2009-02-06T07:34:00.001-06:00

"However much faith to obey God we now have, we will need to strengthen it continually and keep it refreshed constantly. We can do that by deciding now to be more quick to obey and more determined to endure. Learning to start early and to be steady are the keys to spiritual preparation. Procrastination and inconsistency are its mortal enemies."--Henry B. Eyring, "Spiritual Preparedness: Start Early and Be Steady," Ensign, Nov. 2005, 38
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Stock Show

2009-02-06T07:26:00.000-06:00

Stock Show

2009-02-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

So Last night was the lamb show and steer show. We did very well. I can't remember it all but I know that Babby got a 2nd with his fine wool in the cross class which was surprising. We thought he didn't have a chance being put in the cross class with a fine wool but he got a second. Yeah!! Caleb did really good for his for year, he got a 4th. He was so cute, really tried hard, watched the judge but he's still a little short in one end, so setting up and everything was a little beyond him. Nolan and Riley had a great night. I'll let Maebeth give all the details but they ended up with the champion and reserve in the dorpers and did really good in the cross class. Clara showed a steer this year. She is my step neice. She got a second. So not a bad night over all. They all did really well in showmanship. I was sure that Bobby had a great chance to get that this year and I am fairly certain the judge was looking at him but Riley Price beat him out. But this is Riley's senior year so we're not too sad about that. There's always Next Year!!

Stock Show

2009-02-04T20:34:00.000-06:00

Tonight was Telly's turn. She had two goats, did really well with the first. It placed 2nd, so she got to come back and make the championship drive with him. And she got called back for showmanship. It was also Billy's turn. He is the ring steward for the goat show. So here are Telly and Billy. Look how cute they are!!!

Thought For Today

2009-02-04T08:30:00.001-06:00

"It requires courage to make good choices, even when others around us choose differently. As we make righteous choices day by day in little things, the Lord will strengthen us and help us choose the right during more difficult times."--W. Craig Zwick, "We Will Not Yield, We Cannot Yield", Ensign, May 2008, 97–99

2009-02-03T20:23:00.000-06:00

Well it has started. And we have some really good looking boys out in the ring. Nolan did great. Got a second and reserve of his breed. I left right after Caleb but I know that Riley Bobby, and Nolan got called back for showmanship. I needed to get Mr. William home. He's sick, poor baby.

Thought for Today

2009-02-03T05:31:00.001-06:00

Faith in Jesus Christ takes us beyond mere acceptance of the Savior's identity and existence. It includes having complete confidence in His infinite and eternal redemptive power."--James O. Mason, "Faith in Jesus Christ", Ensign, April 2001, 22

Fill My Home With Hard

2009-02-02T10:49:00.000-06:00

Easier doesn’t mean anything.
It’s easier now that they’ve gone
The four little girls that I’ve loved.
The laundry is gone,
No meals need be cooked,
In rooms there’s no clutter,
The doors always shut.
Yes, easier, but that’s all.
Easier’s just easier, there’s no laughter, no squeels of delight,
No late night snuggles.
There’s no joy in easy.
So come home to me my little girls,
Bringing in tow you own little ones.
Fill my rooms with squeels of laughter,
Handprints on doors,
Spills on my floors,
Sticky kisses on my cheeks.
Fill my home with hard!
For there is no joy in easy.

Debbie Riley

Thought For Today

2009-02-01T08:31:00.000-06:00

"Our task is to become our best selves. One of God's greatest gifts to us is the joy of trying again, for no failure ever need be final."--Thomas S. Monson, "The Will Within," Ensign, May 1987, 67

"Noah had the unwavering faith to follow God's commandments. May we ever do likewise. May we remember that the wisdom of God ofttimes appears as foolishness to men; but the greatest lesson we can learn in mortality is that when God speaks and we obey, we will always be right."--Thomas S. Monson, "They Marked the Path to Follow", Ensign, Oct 2007, 4–9

Thought For Today

2009-01-31T08:45:00.001-06:00

"Through service to others, we develop a Christlike love and we experience joy. Service teaches patience and long-suffering as well as gentleness, goodness, and faith." --Merrill J. Bateman, "Living a Christ-Centered Life", Liahona, Dec 1999, 13

Leanne and Jesse

2009-01-31T07:51:00.000-06:00

Leanne's my first daughter. She is always go go go, but when she stops, she really stops. I just thought this was such a sweet picture of her and her awesome husband Jesse. They were so cute asleep together in the recliner. Like Kisha says, it makes my hurt and it feels so good.

Thought For Today

2009-01-28T08:25:00.000-06:00

"At the heart of the message of the Savior of the world is a single, glorious, wonderful, still largely untried concept. In its simplest terms the message is that we should seek to overcome the selfishness we all seem to be born with, that we should overcome human nature and think of others before self."--James E. Faust, "A Pattern of Love," Ensign, Dec. 1999, 2

Though For Today

2009-01-27T12:25:00.001-06:00

"Those who walk in faith will feel their lives encompassed with the light and blessings of heaven. They will understand and know things that others cannot."--Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Ensign, Nov. 2002, 84

Edmund Dantes

2009-01-25T19:32:00.001-06:00

Alas, I have finished my book and am forever changed by the story of Edmund Dantes. The Count of Monte Cristo is now officially my favorite book ever. If you've seen the movie, forget it, it doesn't even compare. Don't, no don't be tempted to read the abridged version, just plunge in, be brave and read the unabridged version and let your heart be swept away by the tragic story of Edmund Dantes. It does have a happy ending but not the one I had hoped for and even better than I could imagine. Well, to some extent. There are still questions in my mind and loose ends that I wish he would have tied up for me, oh well... I will just have to spend a sleepless night worrying about those...no I don't want to give the end away. You must read the book!! I am so sad it is over...so sad...so sad.

2009-01-25T15:28:00.000-06:00

I have just gotten back from a wonderful but short visit with my mom. I don't get to see her nearly often enough. Her significant other is a wonderful little terrier named Scruffy, who we are all grateful has come into her live. She keeps mom company and has a delightful personality that you quickly fall in love with as you watch the interaction between these two friends. I not only spent time with my wonderful mother but my dear sister Melissa and her awesome husband Steve. We didn't do a whole lot, just sat and talked and went through pictures, recalling a lot of fun things about growing up together. We did have to go to the store so that I could be the first great Aunt to give my new great niece a gift. I have not had the privilege of being a great aunt on my side of the family so I was thrilled to think that Dustin and Sara had blessed me with the delightful prospect and couldn't wait to purchase a cute little outfit for their daughter, who will be born in May. We met them at Mamacieta's for lunch and it was fun watching my dear nephew be so thoughtful and attentive to his sweet Sara.

Okay, so Leanne has tagged us all to be honest about 10 things others might not know about us. So here I go:

1. I am terrified of doing anything by myself that I have not done before. I have to talk myself into it, retalk myself through it and the anxiety I go through sometimes causes me to procrastinate until I just have no choice. It's awful and I hate it and I work on it all the time. I don't know what I would do without Billy because he so many times without even knowing it paves the way for me so that I am not as afraid as I would be by myself.

2. There are times that I just need to stay in bed all day and watch stupid movies and television shows for the whole day, not doing anything, not accomplishing anything and I feel terribly guilty about it but I can't function without that time to vegetate. I am grateful for an understanding husband who doesn't ask any questions, he just lets me have the time I need to recover from the stresses of life. I don't do it often only about twice a year but for some reason it just helps me through the rest of the year.

3. I love the stupidest television shows ever. I love Project Runway, Top Chef, Shear Genius, and all sorts of silly shows like this. I hate for anybody to catch me watching them because they are a silly waste of time. But I am so grateful that I have a DVR so I can record them and watch them when I can't sleep at night or whenever possible.

4. I binge of Junior Mints or Milk Duds occasionally. I buy a big box and say I'm only going to eat a few, then I eat the whole box. I know I'm going to, but I always say I'm not, to justify buying the big box.

5. The older I get the harder it is to control certain bodily functions. I remember my grandmother telling me one time that it was better to bear the shame than bear the pain but whenever this happens to me in public areas ( I don't mind it happening in my own home) I discreetly walk away hoping that if anyone catches a whiff they will think it was someone else. Oh the shame, the shame!!!

6. I to have been impatient with those who are injured or ill. The older I get the more empathy I have because things keep happening to me that cause me to realize what others have gone through. Now everytime I find myself being impatient I think uh-oh, I better change my tune.

7. It has always made me angry when people couldn't hear me. Now I'm very worried that I am loosing my hearing and I will have to know that there are people putting up with my inability to hear them, oh the joys of getting old.

8. When I really love a book, I can't hardly stand to put it down and worry every moment I am not reading that something is going on that I need to know about. When I finish it I go through a form of mourning for these friends I have lost.

9. I have a secret delight in watching my daughters struggle with the same problems with their children that I struggled with raising them. When they call me complaining, I just smile and say, Yes, I know dear but aren't they delightful. Because my other confession is that's it's way easier to see the joy of the whole thing from this side than from the other.

10. My last true confession, I actually like revealing secrets about myself because it makes me feel safer, I don't have to hide anything, it's all out there and whatever the secret is, it can't be nearly as hard as trying to keep it from everyone. And in reality, there are really no secrets, because there is someone who knows them all and He loves us in spite of the secrets we think we keep.

So now I'm done and I send the challenge on to everyone who reads my blog also.

2009-01-22T12:23:00.000-06:00

We had some friends that we sold the land across from us to and they built this really nice brick home. We have been watching anxiously as each step has been completed. Lee did all the contracting and he, Liz and their extended families have done a lot of the work also. It has turned out beautifully. They still aren't quit finished but we expect they will be in it by this summer. Anyhow Billy had mentioned to Lee that we had wanted to brick our home for years but we also had another friend who had done this and it turned out really awful so besides just not having the money, we were kind of worried about doing it. So Lee says, you know have some fellows that I contracted that I think you would be really happy with. So we hired them. I didn't take any pictures before they started bricking the house because I wasn't thinking but when they were finished we were amazed and very happy to say the least. Arturio ( the bricker) told Billy we had enough brick that if we would like him to, he could do pillars on the front porch for us. We were thrilled. We hadn't even thought about doing that. When he started the pillars, he told us that we really had enough brick that he could do arches if we liked. Okay, that sounds good too. So he did the pillars and arches. It turned out so beautiful I just had to share. If anybody is looking for a man to do bricking on their home, he is the one to call. He is really nice, efficient and his work is outstanding. I am just thrilled. My daughter said to me the other day, so Dad is so determined to stay in ya'll's original home that he just builds a new around you. And I said yeah, we're both like that. We have had some of the happiest moments in our life right here in this old house that we could afford when we married and we don't want to leave those memories, so it's nice to be able to redo things!

Thought For Today

2009-01-22T09:18:00.001-06:00

"Forgiveness is freeing up and putting to better use the energy once consumed by holding grudges, harboring resentments, and nursing unhealed wounds. It is rediscovering the strengths we always had and relocating our limitless capacity to understand and accept other people and ourselves." --James E Faust, "The Healing Power of Forgiveness", May 2007 Ensign

Thought for Today

2009-01-20T09:44:00.000-06:00

"Because we are being constantly exposed to the world's definition of greatness, it is understandable that we might make comparisons between what we are and what others are—or seem to be—and also between what we have and what others have. Although it is true that making comparisons can be beneficial and may motivate us to accomplish much good and to improve our lives, we often allow unfair and improper comparisons to destroy our happiness when they cause us to feel unfulfilled or inadequate or unsuccessful. Sometimes, because of these feelings, we are led into error and dwell on our failures while ignoring aspects of our lives that may contain elements of true greatness."In 1905, President Joseph F. Smith made this most profound statement about true greatness:" 'Those things which we call extraordinary, remarkable, or unusual may make history, but they do not make real life." 'After all, to do well those things which God ordained to be the common lot of all mankind, is the truest greatness. To be a successful father or a successful mother is greater than to be a successful general or a successful statesman.' (Juvenile Instructor, 15 Dec. 1905, p. 752.)"--Howard W. Hunter, "What Is True Greatness?" Ensign, Sept. 1987, 70

Thought For Today

2009-01-12T09:58:00.001-06:00

"The greatest single lesson we can learn in mortality is that when God speaks and a man obeys, that man will always be right."--President Thomas S. Monson, Ensign, May 2005, 22

Thought for Today

2009-01-11T15:31:00.000-06:00

"Each of us will taste the bitter ashes of life, from sin and neglect to sorrow and disappointment. But the atonement of Christ can lift us up in beauty from our ashes on the wings of a sure promise of immortality and eternal life. He will thus lift us up, not only at the end of life, but in each day of our lives." --Bruce C. Hafen, "Beauty for Ashes: The Atonement of Jesus Christ, Liahona", Apr. 1997, 39

Miss Holly and her Grumpa

2009-01-10T16:55:00.000-06:00

So when we became grandparents, I had the unique position of being #1 Grandy. Riley and Sydney always came to me first. Then with Nolan it could be either way but Caleb was his Grumpas. Until Katie came along the rest belonged to me, I was it in their eyes. But with Katie it is Grumpa all the way. Now we have Miss Holly, who gives me the evil eye most the time and runs lickety split to her Grumpa, holding his finger and wanting him to pick her up. She doesn't even like her Dad that much. I guess I can deal with it, after all out of ten, six think I hung the moon and three think Grumpa is the cat's pajamas and one loves us both about equal most the time. Not bad odds for me. Who knows what the future will bring though.

The Magic Feather

2009-01-10T16:51:00.000-06:00

So, she goes from being terribly unhappy about walking and giggling hysterically as she walks but she is walking unassisted. It's a milestone, one we have all been anxiously anticipating. Yeah Lindsey, the possiblities are endless!!!