GUNNSLINGERS

Welcome Welcome Sabbath Morning

2011-08-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

This will be the last entry of my week blogging about life. Yesterday was busy. . . .and so I didn't blog. I will do it now. Yesterday morning my alarm went off at 6:00 a.m. I couldn't move. . . that bed felt so good. I knew John's alarm was going to go off at 6:30 so I went back to sleep. At 6:30 we both pulled ourselves out of bed to get ready for the day. I had baked beans and a potato salad to fix for the high priest group social and John had to make a trip to the grocery store for the burgers, buns, chips, ice, drinks. . . etc. . . . etc. I had boiled the potatoes for the salad the night before but then realized I had forgotten to boil the eggs. SO. . . I boiled the eggs and made the baked beans and threw them in the crockpot. Jumped in the shower and left our house at 8:30 a.m. . . today is Jeff and Kori's moving day and we want to help! Jeff had a huge moving truck and alot of family was there to help. John helped load the truck; I, on the other hand, got to tend Betsy:) There are advantages to being a grandma! We played and we strolled and Betsy took a nap in her stroller. By noon everything had been moved to the new house and so we moved there as well. I have to say they have a beautiful home! Of course I have no pictures because when I pulled my camera out, the battery was dead. .typical. We hated to say goodbye but had to leave at 1:00; still have things to do before the social at 5:00. We stopped in Centerville on our way home to see Cash. . . who was having a nap. So we visited with Ging and then headed for home. Needed table covers so we made a quick stop at the Dollar Store. Made it home! I started the potato salad and John was working on setting up the tables, etc. when Legacy House called and said they didn't know what to do with mom; she kept trying to leave and said her boyfriend was coming. They had walked her, sat outside with her, redirected her. . . . .nothing seemed to be working. . . . could I come? NO! HELP!! I told them to give her some medication to calm her. I texted Mark and told him I didn't know what to do. He, of course, got in the car and drove to mom's. Texted me later and said mom acted like she could have cared less that he was there. Honestly. . . . it's so frustrating. We're still waiting for a bed in the Alzheimes Unit. The social was fun and we had a great time. . . . . fell into bed around 10:00. And now it's Sunday morning. . . .my body is rested. John has already showered and is over at the church to meetings. I read Chapter 19 in the Book of Mormon and journaled (one of my favorite chapters). Planning to shower and head over to mom's to visit this morning before our block of meetings start at 1:00. . . . have to be at the hospital for work at 5:00. I have a busy life, a full life, a happy life. . . . ." Life is beautiful". . . as they say. . . .

Friday. . .The Day Between Thursday and Saturday (Wikipedia)

2011-08-20T06:41:00.000-07:00

Walked out of the hospital at 6:15 a.m.; five complicated patients with extensive medical histories and social problems as well. It always feels so good to walk out the door of that hospital and turn everything over to another nurse. . . . . .ahhh. . . . the feeling of relief. When you're done, you're done! There's something to be said about that! The sky is dark and cloudy - we're expecting rain today. The clouds hovering over the mountain are pink. . . . so beautiful. . . . catching the rays of the rising sun. Feel so lucky to live in such a beautiful place. Home to bed. . . . with my newspaper and soon in dreamland. Phone rang at 11:00 a.m.; meant to silence them but forgot. . . . .I get up anyway; it's only 1/2 hour earlier than I had planned. John has the day off but has gone somewhere; I hit the shower - we're heading to Jeff and Kori's to do a few things before they move tomorrow. Stopped to have lunch at Roosters and John and I actually get to catch up on life. Lunch is my favorite meal of the day. . . . . especially with someone I care about. So nice to relax, sip a Diet Coke and talk about. . . . . everything! Arrived at Jeff and Kori's and painted Betsy's bedroom. John and I have done our fair share of painting over the years and I think we're not too bad. John is definitely a better painter than me; I think it has something to do with his patience! I tell him maybe he could become a painter after he retires. . . . .I don't think he thinks it's very funny! Finished in 1 1/2 hours and the room looks beautiful, but I want to clean those beautiful wood floors. We head to Lowes for a few supplies; it only takes us 1/2 hour and about 50 traffic lights that all seem to turn red right as we're approaching . . . .and that is why I don't like large cities! It takes too long to get anywhere! Back to the house to start on the floors and clean. By 7:00 p.m. we're tired. . . .and we inhale pizza Jeff has delivered. Finally make it home by 8:00 where I have to boil the potatoes for our cookout tomorrow night. John offers to do it for me since I'm barely surviving on four hours of sleep; I assure him that as long as I stay in an upright position I can do it! Read Chapter 18 in the Book of Mormon and journal. Ammon teaches Lamoni about God. Seems strange to me not to know about God. . . try to imagine what that would be like. I am blessed. Take 800 mg Ibuprofen, put the boiled potates in the fridge and put my body on my marshmallow mattress. . . . .ahhh. . . . . heaven.

"Born on Thursday. . . merry and glad". . .

2011-08-18T15:35:00.000-07:00

. Jumped out of bed at 0730; Beatriz is coming to clean my house from top to bottom. . . baseboards, fans, cobwebs on the ceiling. . . you know. . . the things you never get around to doing. Problem is, I have to clean my house before Beatriz comes to clean. . . pick up all the clutter and get things put away. Beatriz arrives promptly at 0830; start getting a few things done around here but stay close by in case Beatriz has any questions. Started laundry. . . seems like laundry never goes away. I have two loads today. Read Chapter 17 in the Book of Mormon and journaled. Love the story of Ammon and King Lamoni! This chapter is just the beginning:) Worked on the baby blanket. Divided up the tickets our stake received for the General RS Mtg. on September 24th - now I just need to get them delivered to the nine wards and branches. . . . that will have to wait for another day. Beatriz is still working (my house needs serious help); decide I'll run to the gym - exercised for 30 minutes. I know. . . . a lame effort but I figured 30 minutes is better than nothing. Stopped at Hallmark. . I notice my sack says "Life is A Special Occasion". . .I need to remember that! Beatriz is still working so I check my e-mail and surf the internet. She's doing too good of a job!!! FINALLY, Beatriz is done and my house smells wonderful! Gotta shower and get over to check on mom; really bothers me that all she can do is sit and stare at the walls all day. However, when I arrive she is sitting inside the lobby reading a newspaper with her coat on. We go upstairs and I vacuum, gather up her laundry, open her cupboard to check her snack supply and find a plate of food in the cupboard (probably from last night). . . . sit out in front with her for a little while (she won't take her coat off) then have to get to the grocery store. As I'm leaving she says "I'd better go home. . . I don't have a car". I reassure her that this is where she lives and Mark will be stopping by in a little while. Made it to the grocery store. . . we're hosting a high priest cookout Saturday night in our backyard and I'm making potato salad and baked beans . . . . Where did the time go anyway? I need to get my scrubs on. . . . . clocking back in at the hospital at 5:00 p.m. I have to go to work to get some rest. . . . .get my mind and body in a different place for a while. . . . being busy is a blessing. . . just ask someone who doesn't have anything to do all day. . . .like my mom!

What Matters Most. . .

2011-08-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

In my world of "busyness", I need to remember this. . . .

http://youtu.be/KYhDhiojBPA

As The World Turns. . . .

2011-08-17T19:08:00.000-07:00

This week of my life continues. I walked out of the hospital this morning at 6:00 a.m. . . . again. Not a good sign; difficult patients mean complicated and long reports - should be out by 5:30 a.m. Back into bed by 6:30 with my morning newspaper. Fell asleep but forgot to shut off the phones - heard them ring once but too tired to get up and fix the problem. Also had pain shooting down my right leg for most of the morning - a result of pounding the hospital floors the past two nights for 12 hours at a time. . . nothing serious but certainly annoying. Finally out of bed by 11:30. . . hate to sleep when everyone else in this part of the world is awake and living life! I want to be awake too! Made a 12:30 much needed lunch appointment with a friend from work. . . cheap therapy! You can't talk about work at work because you're working your head off. . . but it sure is great to sip a diet Coke and vent with a good friend about work. We stopped for a couple of quick errands on the way home. Had to be at my mom's by 2:30 to take her to her 3:00 hair appointment. It takes time. . . . she moves slow. Made it there by 3:00, took her for a short ride and for a milkshake, then back to her place where we sat outside in front. Funny the simple pleasures we take for granted. I finally headed for home at 5:00 because I wanted to see John (have to see him when I can!) Started feeling the results of working two 12 hour shifts back to back. . . . my body is aching and I feel like I've been hit by a freight train. Read Chapter 16 from the Book of Mormon; need to keep the inner vessel strong even though the outer vessel is falling apart:) Oh. . . . . and don't doubt God when he says he will do something. Up to my marshmallow bed where I can rest my tired body and work on the baby blanket I'm crocheting for grandbaby #8. . . .we're multiplying!! And I think we raided the gene pool because our grandbabies are the cutest of any I've ever seen!!! Shoot!! I notice I have been off several stitches so have to unravel four rows and do them over; that is painful because the pattern I'm working on isn't especially a speedy one! Returned a call from a friend who wants to get together with John and I; lectured me about politics. . . .I think I'm getting tired. . . tired . . . . .tired. . . . . and this bed is feeling like a cloud.

Life Continued. . .

2011-08-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

Walked out of the hospital this morning at 6:00 a.m. . . tired. Summer mornings are beautiful; you can hear the birds singing and it's warm, quiet and peaceful. The sun is just about to come over the top of the beautiful mountains right in front of me. Dad was already up and showered and getting ready for work. It's nice to be able to talk before we go our separate ways. I was in bed with my newspaper by 6:30 and awake by 1:00. For some reason or other my body won't sleep past 1:00. I've tried about everything but finally realized that I can get by just fine on that amount of sleep for a day or so. Came upstairs and saw grandma's other two loads of laundry sitting there so I started them going. Dad finished up her whites last night and ran them over to her. She changes her underwear several times a day. . . not really sure why. Oh I love washing machines, dishwashers, fridges and self-cleaning ovens. I would have made a lousy pioneer! I still have a faint memory of going over to visit my great grandpa and grandma Reeves in Brigham City and grandpa Reeves had a big block of ice in his arms to put in the ice box. Turned on my computer to catch up on my e-mail. Immediately found two miniature Baby Ruth candy bars to eat. I should have been a dietician instead of a nurse then I could have changed that darn food pyramid that has now changed into a plate. . . A PLATE!!! Now what size of plate are they talking about anyway? I'd like to know. . . . I'll keep swallowing my daily vitamins:) Read Chapter 15 in the Book of Mormon and journaled. ZEEZROM. . . now that's a name! Honestly, there is something about that book. . . . . .Picked up another book I'm reading on Ginger's recommendation - "Half Broke Horses". Only able to read a chapter because I need to hurry and get over to check on mom before I have to be back to work at 5:00. Have you ever imagined what life would be like if you were so confused you didn't even have a clue what was going on? She can't watch TV anymore because she can't follow it. She still looks at a newspaper but mostly wanders around. The doctor asked me yesterday what she does all day and that's what makes me feel so bad. She has nothing to do. . . . 24 hours a day. . . . . nothing. . . . nothing. Even my few hours a day only make a very small dent. That would be torment. I went to grab her clothes from out of the dryer and they were covered in blue ink. . . . and so was the drum of my dryer. She left a blue pen in one of her pockets. I think I said a bad word. The clothes are ruined:( I took about 15 minutes and my spray OxyClean and cleaned out the dryer drum. Made it over to mom's and sat outside with her for an hour. She loves that more than anything. I wish she could sit out there alone but the last time we tried that she ended up over at the library trying to write out checks to people. It makes me feel so bad. And yes. . . that burn mark on my left cheek looks lovely today. Now I'm back at home changing into my scrubs; have to clock in by 5:00. . . . .and I'm back on the road again. . . . .

Living with Alzheimers. . .

2011-08-15T15:12:00.000-07:00

(Lunch with mom at the Idle Isle 2008)

I made it to mom's by 11:45 a.m. I had to do her dishes (she doesn't know how to do simple tasks anymore), pick up her laundry (garbage and laundry mixed together in the hamper), and vacuum. She obviously eats in motion. We finally made it to Wendys for a hamburger and a shake (her favorite); I stopped by the house on our way to the doctor to rotate my laundry. . . thank heaven I live in the 21st Century where a machine can do my laundry while I take care of other things. We made it to the doctor where I explained that mom is severely agitated at night, has called "911" twice in the last week, becomes combative and even says bad words (according to her). She sat with a blank stare on her face. The doctor talked to her but it's hard for her to make any sense. We left with more medication for the evening hours. We headed to the mall where I can walk her for exercise. . . heaven forbid that she loses her mobility and ends up in a wheelchair. I have to practically pull her along. . . . . it is getting more difficult for her to walk. Her alzheimers doctor said to walk her, and the faster the better. We stopped by Sees because I have a serious addiction, and finally made it back to her Assisted Living by 3:00. I made it home by 3:15 and now have three more loads of laundry to do (hers). I hurried and folded my two loads of laundry, started her three loads (which John will have to finish tonight), mopped the kitchen floor, e-mailed Summer some pictures of the beach (I tried anyway; haven't a clue whether or not I did it right). In 15 minutes I'll be getting ready for my shift at the hospital that starts at 5:00 p.m .and ends at 5:30 a.m.; will plan on arriving home at 5:45 a.m. Has anyone ever heard of Crystal Light "energy". . . . . . because that is what I'll be drinking all night:)

Life as I Know It. . . .

2011-08-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

This week I'm going to blog about life. . . .my ordinary life. You will probably find out things about me that you never knew. You will probably be bored beyond your wildest imagination. I think I'll take it a day at a time just like I live it. . . .

Sunday. . . .got home from work at 6:00 a.m. and was in bed by 6:30. Got out of bed at noon - had alot to do. Looking forward to the kids coming for dinner. Browned the roast and put it in the oven. Set out the rolls (thank you Rhodes!!) to raise. Read Chapter 13 in Alma from the Book of Mormon and journaled. . . one of my goals this year as I read the Book of Mormon - I'm keeping a journal of my thoughts, feelings, and favorite scriptures. It's taking longer than I thought but it's been a great experience. I have to tell you that I love the Book of Mormon. When I read it I am filled with a wonderful spirit of happiness. I know. . .it probably sounds corny, but I can't deny what I feel. Had to prepare for a 4:00 meeting to prepare a simple emergency preparedness plan for our stake. . . not prepared. I read the handbook and made a few notes. Made it to Sacrament Mtg. and found John. Attending Sacrament Meeting is important to me. . . . love renewing my baptismal covenants and recommitting myself to living the things I believe are right. Also I believe that as I renew my baptismal covenants, my sins are forgiven again just like in baptism . . . .I'm a sinner. . .yup!! Need all the help I can get. Ran home to put the rolls in the oven; I was so happy to see Greg and Sue already there. Put them to work finishing up the dinner and went to my 4:00 meeting. Made it home by 4:45 and was able to eat, relax and spend time with the family. Jeff (Kori and kids still in Lake Powell, Greg and Sue, Ginger and Tyler and little Cash) You know, the ones who know you and love you no matter what . . . the ones who know all of your weaknesses and love you anyway. The ones you can really just relax and laugh with. We looked at all of the pictures we took at the beach and reminisced about our Family Home Evenings and John and I found out how lame our kids thought they were. Oh well. . . . .I have great memories of them and will love the song "This Is the Night We've Waited For" forever and ever. Everyone eventually left so I slipped over to the stake center to catch the last half of a meeting for the youth on "Healthy Relationships". I attended a conference a couple of months ago on Domestic Violence by assigment and this meeting was a result of that conference. Our Stake President is meeting with the adults in the couple if weeks. Abuse is apparently a big problem in the world today. Young adults need to know the warning signs and adults need to knock it off if they're involved in it. Made it home shortly after 8:00 and caught up with John. Had a relaxing evening. . .turned out the lights at 9:45 p.m. . . . . . .oh so tired!

Monday. . . today. Opened my eyes at 7:45. Read Chapter 14 in the Book of Mormon and journaled. I have to say that I love the stories of Alma and Amulek. Can't say that I particularly enjoy Chapter 14 but it helps me understand a little clearer why God allows bad things to happen to good people (one of the hardest for me). Read my e-mail. Went to the gym (did I tell you we joined a gym?) I don't like to exercise. . .I don't like having to take time for it. But I did it. . spent 10 minutes on the bike, 10 minutes on the stairmaster, 20 minutes on the eliptical and 10 minutes on some weights for my arms. Am I ever going to like it???? . . couldn't wait to get home. . . I have too much to do today. Called the doctor and made an appointment to take mom at 1:30; received two calls last week late at night that she had totally flipped out and called 911. I guess we need more medications. Ate a bowl of Fiber One. . . .would rather have a candy bar, then got into the shower. . . . ahhhhhhh. . . . . ! I love my morning shower. . . .did my makeup and hair and dropped the flat iron on my cheek and burned it. . . that should look nice in a couple of days. Texted Mark, Ging and Summer. . .started cleaning. . . made our bed (I wonder how many beds I have made in my lifetime?) Vacuumed. . . . did I ever tell you I detest hair anywhere but on the body???? I detest hair on my bathroom floor. . . . have to get it off every day. . . . every single day. Started a load of laundry. . . .unloaded the dishwasher. (By the way Sue, you win! The dirty plate we put it the dishwasher was spotless but I have OCD so I will continue to rinse before I load)! Working fast and watching the clock - headed over to check on mom, take her out for a ride and pick up her laundry. . . . and get her to the doctor at 1:30. To be continued. . . . .

If I Could Save Time in a Bottle. . . .

2011-08-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

An extended family member said to me recently. . . "I wish you were still blogging. . .I miss hearing all the news!"

If I could save time in a bottle. . . . . .

It has been nearly a year since I've blogged. This is my attempt to begin again. I do this alot . . . .begin again. . . and again. . .

This is the past year in a nutshell-

We visited Paul and Summer in Rochester, said goodbye to life with my mom as we have always known it in Brigham City and moved her to an Assisted Living facility closer to us. That has meant getting my mom to doctor appts., dentist appts., hair appts, doing her laundry, her errands, taking her out to lunch and on milkshake runs and nice long drives; basically giving back to her what she spent so many years giving me. Worked on the Surgical Intermediate Care unit at the hospital; enjoyed numerous family get-togethers, celebrated weddings and babies; read a few good books (my favorite of the year "The Help"); saw a few good movies, enjoyed good friends, worked on our family geneology, saw a few good concerts, a couple of plays and exhibits; did housework, church work, yard work, and recently had a great week at the beach with the family.

And so you see. . . . my life is the same as everyone else's. . . . I have good days. . . . .bad days. . . . celebrations and disappointments. But all in all. . . . life has been good to me and to our family. Now. . .

If I could just save time in a bottle. . .

BETSY. . . .

2010-10-21T13:23:00.001-07:00

BETSY

6 lbs. 5 oz.

18 1/2 inches

and the pictures tell the story:)

Most Recent Memories - Some Captured on Camera!

2010-06-08T12:46:00.000-07:00

Decided it was time to transfer my photos to the computer for safe keeping. . . and a little blogging. I'm always sorry that I didn't take more pictures - I'm always lazy when it comes to "leaving the party" to take photos. . I need to do better. I'll begin a few weeks ago when I drove to SLC to see Jack's spring program. . . .He was a "star" - and he's quite the performer! Ginger came to stay for a couple of days and drove up to Brigham with me to visit Grandma. Grandma loves seeing her grandkids - and now she gets to see the great-grandbabies as well. .

I had so much fun that day with Grandma, Ging and Cash !

He will steal your heart and I steal lots of kisses from those fat cheeks!

We met at Sugarhouse Park on a Saturday afternoon in May to play with the kids. . .

Fly kites. . . .

And celebrate birthdays! Sue spoiled us all by making her fabulous homemade coconut cake!

The really big news that I did not capture in pictures is that Paul and Summer came for a week and I could not pull myself away from all of the fun. . . .just could not. . . . .and now I regret all of the pictures I missed. They arrived on Saturday afternoon and we all came to the house for an evening of food and fun! Sunday was Summer's birthday and her parents just happened to be in town so they took off for SLC and the Grand America for brunch with her parents and her sister - in the meantime we were entertained by the kids and got everyone ready for church. Paul and Summer met up with us for church - needless to say, it was quite the feat and, somehow, Summer, Avery, myself, Tyler, Ginger and Cash all ended up together in the Mothers Lounge. Afterwards we all met up at the house for a family barbecue and to celebrate Summer's birthday!

Monday we travelled to Brigham City for an extended family reunion and our annual "cemetery walk". We had over 45 members of our family together and it was a great day!

Afterwards, Jeff took Paul, Noah, Alex and John and I out on his boat-

The kids had fun with the flags and watching Uncle Jeff ski behind. . .

Thanks to our great co-captain!

The water was freezing, but Jeff couldn't resist getting into the water. . .

And showing us a few of his tricks. He took out his knee a couple of years ago and ended up having to have surgery as a result of his love for water skiing - AND, he had accidentally left his knee brace at home so we all kept our fingers crossed -

Of course Paul had to try out the water as well. Jack and Isabelle both felt the water and said they didn't want to get in. Noah put his feet in and that's as far as he got. Alex jumped in and right back out like a jack-in-the-box! We were all impressed that she at least got in. John and I were the biggest wimps of all. . . . . big surprise. . . . .

We spent the week together eating, laughing, playing, reminiscing, hiking, biking, going to parks, having family pics taken and everything else in between! It was a week to remember!

Thank you. . . .

for a house full of people. . .

I love:) XOXO

DON'T. . . .

2010-05-19T02:39:00.000-07:00

Don't get me started

on a GOOD BOOK!

I can't get anything accomplished. . .

Yesterday. . .

I woke up and read. . .

Started the dishwasher

read. . . .

Started the laundry

then I read

rotated the laundry

read

Realized I didn't start the dishwasher. . .tried again. . .

read. . .

Checked on mom. .

read!

Finally had to get into the shower

and get ready for work-

It was a fight all day long.

And I should have purchased two wedding gifts,

gone to the grocery store,

unloaded the dishwasher-

but instead I read. . .

"The Help"

If you want to read a really good book. . .

that you can't put down. .

read it!

Family. . .

2010-05-02T16:48:00.001-07:00

My dad had an older brother named Howard who died of whooping cough when he was 18 months old (before my dad was born). He is buried in the Lehi cemetery because that's where my grandparents were living at the time. A week ago we drove to Provo to see Cash (and Ging and Tyler) and we stopped at the Lehi cemetery to see Howard's grave. It's nestled at the base of a very large, beautiful tree.Greg came along for a few hours and helped us out. Actually, he wasn't feeling very well - he said he'd had the flu for three days. I confiscated his Diet Coke and replaced it with Gatorade:)
We also found the gravesite of my great-grandparents, Christena and Theodore Batemen (Grandma Sylvia Walker's parents).

Greg left us at the cemetery to get back to his studies, and dad and I headed on to Provo to see Ging and Ty. . . . . and Cash!!

This kid has the fattest, most kissable cheeks you have ever seen. . .

We bundled him up. . . .put him in the stroller. . . .

And headed to one of our favorite spots. . . .THE CEMETERY!! We had a great day and even had some time alone with Cash while Ging and Ty had some time alone out for dinner.

Of course, we love spending time with Jack and Isabelle as well. . . John reads very dramatic stories that catch your attention . . . .

This little darling has us all wrapped around her little finger. . .

And this little guy will keep you in stitches. I was reading a book to him last evening and turned the page and there was a picture of a lizard with the subheading

"CAN LIZARDS WALK ON WATER?"

To which Jack replied. . . .

"Jesus Christ lizards can walk on water"

AMEN!

Noah, Alex and Avery. . . .please hurry and get here! We miss you!! XOXO
(And we are in need of some serious help)!

Arches. . . .

2010-05-02T14:08:00.000-07:00

So. . . wouldn't it be nice, we thought, to get away for a few days and break this monotonous cycle we seem to be on day after day. . . . And we decided Arches Nat'l Park in Moab would be perfect. . . not too far away but someplace I have never been. How do you live in Utah most of your life and never visit the National Parks right in your own home state? Don't ask me. . . .I don't know, but we made plans for the time of year we thought the weather would be perfect. . . . however, if you look at these picture you will see something in common in all of them. . . . . a black, stormy sky.

The night before we left, John even suggested that maybe we should postpone the trip because of the weather. Hmmm. . . postpone it to WHEN??? So we packed up and decided we would go and make the best of it. We loaded our bikes on the back of the car determined to be optomistic!

We arrived there and it was freezing cold. . . I was wishing I had packed a heavier coat and even my thermals that I thought were packed away until next winter . . . .

But the scenery was spectacular! This is John's favorite spot. . "balanced rock" - we figured out how to position the camera on the top of the car with the timer on. . . hence the slightly tilted angle.

The weather was so poor we were confined to our car most of the time, but we made this short hike in Canyonlands to see this beautiful arch that is precariously positioned on the edge of a huge canyon cliff. . . .

And this was my favorite spot. . . . Dead Horse Point. I'm terrified of heights and this place gives you that funny feeling in your stomach like you're going to fall. . . . .but the view is like nothing you've ever seen.

We finally ended up renting a narrative for both parks at the Visitors Center since we had to spend most of our sightseeing in the car. It began with cautions. . . ."if you are in an open area hiking and see a thunderstorm approaching, get to your car immediately and roll up the windows". We started one short hike and John looked up and said "look at that black cloud". We made it back to our car just in time before a hailstorm started.

Oh, and we were going to hike to Delicate Arch. . . . until I happened to read the hiking guide they had given us which categorizes the hikes into "easy", "moderate" and "strenuous". Yes. . . .the hike to Delicate Arch is under the "strenuous" list so since we are old and delicate, we avoid anything considered "strenuous".

But. . .overall we had a really great time. We even rode our bikes the morning we left. . . and the sun was shining. . . .beautiful day. . . . . .wouldn't you know it?

It's a Beautiful Noise. . . .

2010-04-19T12:57:00.000-07:00

I called grandma last night to visit - it use to be for fun - it has now become a necessity. She is hearing impaired

and, it is becoming more and more difficult for her to understand me.

I tried speaking more slowly,

I tried speaking in a lower tone,

I tried speaking more loudly-

The conversation was work.

I finally woke up this morning and wrote her a letter so she would know what time I would be there on Thursday to pick her up.

Last night I was trying to go to sleep. . . . . .

I started thinking about mom and the sounds she is now missing out on. .

I listened to see what I could hear. .

Lifeflight flew overhead,

Traffic on Harrison Blvd.,

A motorcycle. . .

The ceiling fan,

John's rhythmic breathing,

My breathing. . . .

And I realized I'm grateful I can hear. . . .

"It's a Beautiful Noise". . . . .

Whatever Happened to Good Manners and Common Courtesy??

2010-04-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

Okay. . . here it is. I'm going to vent my frustration with people who are addicted to their phones. . . and here they are. . .

1) People who take their phones to meetings and then answer the phone and carry on a conversation while everyone else waits. You might as well say to all of us "this phone call is more important to me than you and your time means nothing to me".

2) People who set their phones on vibrate and think no one else can hear it. . . . .

3) People who interrupt a conversation by reaching in their purse or pocket to look at their phone to see who is calling.

4) People who talk on the phone waiting in line at the grocery store or post office or wherever!

5) People who text in meetings or in the company of other people.

Yes, technology has definitely improved and good manners and common courtesy have gone out the window.

Easter. . .

2010-04-12T08:54:00.001-07:00

The day before Easter Jeff and Kori and Ging and Tyler came so we could decorate Easter eggs and sugar cookies with the kids. Things have really advanced since the early days. . . instead of 6 colors you can dye with, there are now 12. I used the tray to transport the cups of dye from the kitchen to the table, but when I saw Isabelle pick up the first egg and "launch" it into the cup from three feet away, I did not remove the cups from the tray. Immediately the tray was submerged like a sinking ship into dye. . . . .we tried to help her and show her and coach her. . . to no avail. . . .
When it came time to frost the sugar cookies, Isabelle was completely worn out. . .and Jack. . . .well Jack used about half of our frosting for his one cookie and about half of the sprinkles on top of that and then he ate the entire thing with a look of pure ecstacy. . I'm afraid we almost put him into a diabetic coma. Now, I ask you, why do all sugar cookie recipes make about 5 dozen cookies? I don't think I'll be doing that activity again. Jack only ate one. . . .which left Ginger, Kori and I to frost 5 dozen sugar cookies. Is that fun????? NO!!!!!

Little Cash just watched in amazement. . . .

And this is Isabelle when it was all over. As you can see, the activity was a huge success:(

Hoppy Easter!!

March Birthdays. . . .

2010-04-12T08:32:00.001-07:00

March brings birthdays. . . four of them to be exact! John, Jeff, Greg and Isabelle. When it was time to sing Happy Birthday, Jack couldn't resist being involved in blowing out the candles. This always makes me nervous as it reminds of the time many years ago that I had slaved over a beautifully decorated homemade birthday cake for Ginger. . . . which she abruptly spit all over when she blew out her candles. Saliva grosses me out. . . .So this year it was a lemon bundt cake. . . . .since John's favorite is carrot cake and Jeff says it's a vegetable. What's a mother to do? Four different birthdays, four different cake preferences. . . .so, they get what they get. . .And nobody spit:)

Jeff acted really excited about his socks. Socks. . . . .can you think of anything more boring? I can say that because I picked them out. Shopping for men is not very exciting. . . .

But John was happy with the lemon bundt cake because it's his second favorite. . . .and I made his favorite carrot cake for a get-together we had later in the week with friends.

Isabelle was born on Greg's birthday so March 25th is a double happy birthday for us:)

And, as usual, Isabelle was more excited about the box than what was inside. Why don't we just give kids boxes for their birthdays?

The Blessing Weekend. . .

2010-03-10T12:41:00.000-08:00

Little boys come in all shapes and sizes,

Shy and adventurous, full of surprises. .
With misshapen halos and mischievous grins,

Small dirty faces, and sweet, sticky chins.
They'll keep you so busy and yet all the while

Nothing can brighten the world like their smile.

And no greater treasure has brought homes more joy

Than a curious, active and lovable boy!

The Train Show with Jack and Isabelle. . .

2010-03-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

This year we made our annual trip to the Union Station with Jack and Isabelle for the train show. . . We had no sooner entered the door when Jack spotted this Lionel train display. .

He put on his train engineer hat and scarf and had a great time working the controls. .we spent well over an hour looking at all of the different trains. . .

Isabelle was happy with the little train that you work by yourself. .

Outside there was a miniature train that the kids could ride on. . . it didn't take much convincing from John for Jack to get on the train. . .

Isabelle, on the other hand, would have nothing to do with it. John put her in it and she burst into tears. . .

Jack enjoyed going around in circles blowing his train whistle. .

John was mostly interested in the restaurant portion of the outing and kept coaxing us to eat. .

And this is what he does to entertain the kids while we're waiting for the food. . . . appetizing. . . .

hmmm. . he reminds me of someone. . . I can't quite put my finger on it!

Roots. . . .

2010-03-04T13:10:00.001-08:00

Recently dad and I had the opportunity to see dad's Uncle Fred and Aunt Maureen and wish them a happy birthday. . . . they are both well into their 80's! Don't they look great? Fred is Grandpa Gunn's only surviving brother. His career was in the Air Force (a World War II Air Force Pilot) so his family lived in many places all over the world. Dad says they didn't get to see them much but occasionally they would come home to Beaver for a family reunion.

Their son and his wife hosted a wonderful open house with family and friends. For dessert they had this fabulous crepe table set up with a variety of divine and delectable fillings. . . .mmmm, I could have eaten them all night long!

Ah hah!! Looks like dad is trying to give Uncle Fred some advice, however, you can see by the look on Uncle Fred's face that he's probably not buying it. . .

Happy Birthday to Uncle Fred and Aunt Maureen!

"There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children. . . one is roots, the other wings-" (Hodding S. Carter)

What's on My Mind. . . .

2010-02-19T14:31:00.000-08:00

We are so excited with the news that our Ogden temple is going to be completely redone and it won't look like a wedding cake anymore. I have a secret to tell you. . . . .I want to work in the temple someday. . . I think it might be good for your health:) Then there's Valentine's Day. . . .I woke up to the worst disaster of my life. . . . .a very strange container looking thing with DARK CHOCOLATE inside. Okay, never mind that we've been married 35 years and John knows I do not like dark chocolate. I have my suspicions. . . . either he doesn't like me anymore or he is into re-gifting. BUT, a sister never lets you down, so, I tucked the fabulously delicious Cummings MILK CHOCOLATE valentine assortment Allyson had given me into my church bag right next to my scriptures and went off to church with a big smile on my face. Two ward conferences that day plus a presidency meeting. . . yes, that's right, I sat through seven hours of meetings on Valentines Day but I was happy as a clam because I had a box of fabulous milk chocolates in my bag and I was shoving them into my mouth every chance I could get. Ginger, I still feel sad every day that you don't have a sister. . . there are really days when you need one!

On a more important note, we were able to celebrate mom's 80th birthday with a surprise party at Maddox with the family. She loved every minute of it. She said to me yesterday. . . ."that is the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me." (Remember. . . . . her memory isn't very good.)

However, I feel so blessed to have her for my mother. The gift of being born into a home to good parents who taught me so many important lessons is appreciated more each day. I have truly been fortunate!

Her posterity is now growing and look what a remarkable legacy she is making. . . . .Oh! Oh! Oh! I'm so lucky. . . . . .

Gunn Sibling Reunion. . . .

2010-01-23T14:08:00.000-08:00

The reunion was a success thanks to our great hosts, Tom and Judy. We had a lot of fun, ate a lot of food, played a lot of games, and no one went home bruised or battered!

Saturday Evening it got a little chilly as we all sat around a warm fire. Looks like we wore Barbie out!
Friday we lazied around the house and made several trips to the airport. The dice game was a hit, Liar's Dice to be exact. We all had fun reminiscing as we passed all the pictures around. The prize for best storyteller would have gone to Barb or Roger, if such a prize was given.

An afternoon at the beach, including riding bikes down the boardwalk, throwing the football around, and feeding french fries to the seagulls was our Saturday afternoon activity.

Saturday night we all sat around a warm fire and played 'Name that Tune', with Roger serving as the host. I think it was Bob that did the best at this game, if my poor memory serves me correctly. In fact, Dave brought the 'Top Banana' award for the person most successful at beating the rest of us at the games, and I think it has to go to Bob! Dave, where is that Banana?

A Memorable Christmas and A Joyous New Year!

2010-01-11T06:21:00.000-08:00

We had a memorable (very) Christmas Eve. . . .Ging- sorry about this picture - I know it's a bad memory you would like to forget! We started our evening with our chosen and voted upon menu of appetizers. . . . .only thing is, we all chose the fattiest, heaviest, most calorie laden appetizer we could think of. . . I mean, they were all really, really, delicious, but the American Heart Association would have been totally disgusted, and I ate so many little smokies I woke up sick during the night. I think you get the picture. From now on, if it's at our house, be warned. . . .it will be a sit down dinner. We spent the evening playing games and Jack and I made cookies for Santa. . . .which Jack coughed on at least 50 times. I warned everyone to eat them at their own risk. . . .Christmas morning Jack was mesmerized with all of the presents!
Isabelle was delighted!

They had great fun opening
all of the gifts and helping everyone else with theirs!

We all settled into a lazy morning. . .

Ging and Tyler were still hoping to get "Cash" for Christmas. . . .but it didn't happen!

Greg and Sue took everything in stride. . .but none of us could even think about food. We still had the "kardiac killer" hangover!

Eventually, everyone dispersed to their other families and we headed to Brigham City to see grandma, Ally and Mark and Cathi. Christmas 2009 was over. . . but we still had an exciting event to look forward to. . . .

New Year's Day 2010. . . . .we received a call at 4:00 a.m. that Ging and Tyler were headed to the hospital with our new grandbaby on the way! John and I had both been the lucky recipients of Jack and Isabelle's colds and when I went to open my mouth, I couldn't speak! I had a bad case of laryngitis. . . .so. . . . I was the proud first patient of 2010 at Insta-Care and then we headed off to Provo. We sat nervously in the waiting room and then received the word via text by Tyler that they were headed for a C-section. Not the best news of the day and everything had been going so smooth. . . .but Ginger was a real champ!! I was so proud of her. Her strength amazed me. . . .

Finally, the good news that all had gone well, and baby Cash was finally here! This is the proud dad in the nursery spreading the great news!

And our beautiful 8 lb. 5 oz. , chubby, healthy, gorgeous grandbaby #6 with a full head of black hair and adorable fat cheeks!

Ging missed out on alot of the fun because of the C-section, but when she finally was able to hold him, it was love at first sight!

John and I were careful not to share our colds. . . .

We were there most of the day Friday and Saturday, then took a rest on Sunday.

What a great beginning for the year 2010!

I couldn't wait to get there on Monday for the trip home and be able to spend Mon-Fri. with the family!

This little guy is the spitting image of his dad!

We had such fun bathing, rocking, and snuggling with this little guy.

These daily sponge baths were so much fun (don't pay any attention to Cash)- he loved the bath and the massage and felt so good afterwards. Not to mention he smelled so good we about ate him up!

He looks so tiny in
this great big crib!

And this was his big day out for the circumcision - doesn't he look so cute? I passed! I've been through this three times already and plan to never go through it again. But, oh the joy of a wonderful week and another adorable grandbaby!

HEY ALL!! WHEN CAN WE DO IT AGAIN???

Joy To The World!

2009-12-21T07:46:00.001-08:00

Our life has overflowed with joy during this holiday season and it began with. . . .

our trip to Minnesota to see our beautiful Avery Jane (and the family). . . . .

This little girl is definitely the life of the party. . . . .

And will make you laugh until your face hurts. . . . (RED ALERT. . .RED ALERT. . if you bathe her, "ONLY MY MOMMY OR DADDY CAN WASH MY BAGINA!!!) Oh Alex. . . . Alex. . .where in the world did you come from??

We were able to celebrate Noah's sixth birthday. . . . . .Oh Noah. . . . .where has the time gone? It seems like yesterday you were our first little grandbaby sitting in your boppy in our family room. . . .

And now you are six years old. . . . . and obviously headed to Utah for college!!!-- I can hardly wait!!!

This is the family on Avery's blessing day. . . .

Paul gave her a beautiful blessing and it will forever be a sweet memory for all of us. . .

Dad and I with the happy family. . . .

We snuck this picture while Paul and Summer were out for some very much needed "time alone". . . .

We came home just in time to organize the traditional Walker family Christmas party. . .

As you can see, our numbers have multiplied and our circle is growing. . .

Then it was on to see Jack in his pre-school Christmas program. This is Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. . . .

And Jack singing his little heart out. . . .

Afterwards we brought Jack home and the first place he wanted to go was. . . . .guess. . . .

THE TRAIN STATION! Do you think this is a little boy who loves trains?

And then to the childrens museum the next day. . . .

In between we were able to spend time with grandma . . . .

And tend for Jeff and Kori while they went out on the town for Jeff's law firm Christmas Party, and, where he was officially made a partner in the firm! AWESOME!

Now, we're anxiously awaiting Christmas, and more time with the family. But more important than that. . . .we're joyfully anticipating the arrival of our sixth grandbaby. We may all be getting "Cash" for Christmas, thanks to Ginger and Tyler. We'll keep you posted. . .

In the meantime. . . . have a joyous, wonderful, memorable holiday season!-- Merry Christmas!

2009-11-24T10:48:00.000-08:00

GRATITUDE. . . ..

. . .a sincere appreciation for blessings or help we have received.

At this time of Thanksgiving I reflect on my many blessings. . .

My ancestors who sacrificed homes, comfort and even those they loved to come to America seeking the truthfulness of the restored church.

Goodly parents who provided me with the comforts of life and taught me important life lessons.

A gentle, kind, patient and loving spouse who has always loved and supported me in good times and bad.

Amazing children who work hard and embrace life with enthusiasm.

Beautiful grandchildren that define the word "joy" and "bliss".

Brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews who have enriched my life abundantly.

Wonderful friends that sprinkle our lives with love and laughter.

A beautiful world, a free country, a wonderful neighborhood. . .

a beloved home.

And good health, that enables me to enjoy it all.

For all of this I thank a kind and generous Father in Heaven who is ever loving, forgiving, watchful and mindful. . . .

Thank you. . . . .

October Highlights. . .

2009-10-30T08:29:00.001-07:00

So. . . . I'm not the best blogger that ever was, in fact, I'm thinking about giving it up, but for now, here a few highlights of our beautiful blessed October. General Conference. . . . and Elder Holland's talk and testimony on the Book of Mormon. I read from it every day and I know it's true. . .

Visiting the temple several times with a great husband. . . .and reflecting on the tender mercies of the Lord. . . .

Our beautiful Avery Jane. . . . we can't wait to hold her and see all of the family. . . . .who live too far far away:(

Seeing Jack at his preschool Halloween party. . . . .this is him waving to the crowds!

And watching him enjoy every moment. . . .

Chasing Isabelle around outside. . .

. . . .and hearing her actually say "grandma" about ten times. . . even though no one will believe me because she's refusing to repeat it again. . . . to anyone!

And there's more. . .

A family get-together with the Gunns'. .

Spending a day each week with grandma. . .

Hosting 17 people at our house for FHE. . .

Re-certifying my ACLS without going into cardiac arrest myself!. .

Having lunch with my friend who is fighting cancer. .

Hosting our empty-nesters Sunday dinner group. . .

A colonoscopy. .

A trip to the D.I. to find an outfit to wear for stake welfare meeting. .

Taping a family history for Ed and Barb. . .

Stake R.S. Leadership Mtg. . .

Stake Conference (and speaking). . don't ask! . . .

Visiting Teaching. .

Relief Society at the Nursing Home. . .

Learning how to crochet. . .

And 36 hours of graveyard shifts a week!

A fabulous month. . . . don't you think?

I Am Grateful. . . .

2009-10-01T13:31:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I received a phone call from an old high school friend I haven't seen in 25 years.

Turns out she has moved back to Utah. . .

One year ago her husband was the first counselor in the bishopric and she was relief society president.

Her husband had an affair

They went through a divorce after 30 years of marriage

And she found out she had a brain tumor

She went through treatment over the past year.

On September 23rd she found out she has breast cancer

Yesterday she had a double mastectomy-

"Will you come and see me?". . . she said. . .

Today I am grateful. . .

For a good husband

For good health

And for many, many blessings-

Circus Circus!

2009-09-28T14:57:00.000-07:00

Last Friday John and I took Jack to the circus at the Delta Center. When we went to pick him up he said with a look of disappointment on his face, "Noah isn't going with me to the circus". I'm sorry Jack that Noah and Alex live so far away and Isabelle isn't quite old enough to go yet. . . you will just have to put up with grandpa and I for now:(

The minute we walked in the door Jack spotted this toy that spun in circles and lit up. .
Nevermind the elephants, tigers, acrobats, magic tricks (how do you make an elephant disappear?) and that they shot two females out of a cannon across the arena. . .
Jack was only interested in this toy. . . .

I'm sure the batteries on this thing were worn out long ago. .
or that Isabelle has a concussion by now or her eyeball has been knocked out of its socket. Jack really loved this toy. . . at least for a couple of hours. John and I loved the circus and we loved having Jack all to ourselves!

On Saturday we drove to Provo to spend some time with Ginger and Tyler. Ging said she would go to the General Relief Society Womens Conference with me. It just happened that there was a BYU game at the same time. Yes, five lanes of bumper to bumper traffic the entire way down. We went out to Red Robin for food (we avoided anything anywhere near the stadium) and then
went home so John and Tyler could finish watching the game and Ging and I could go to the conference. THEN, we found out the conference was being broadcast live on TV, so we sprawled out on the bed and watched it in comfort. Ahhhhh.. . . it was great.
No pictures. . . . .I'll spare you.
I loved spending the afternoon with Ging and Ty, and I love Julie B. Beck and Relief Society. In this crazy, hectic, mixed up world, I need Relief Society to calm me, guide me, reassure me and teach me the things in life that are really important.

A Visit From Paul and Noah. . . . .

2009-09-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

Paul and Noah arrived on Saturday around noon for a short visit. . . .They had been up since 4:00 a.m. to catch their flight. The guys headed to Provo to see the BYU game and Kori, Sue and I headed for the zoo with the kids. . .

This is what happens when you're almost six and you've been up since 4:00 a.m. - you end up in the stroller with the two year old because you're too tired to walk:)

Jack was delighted to ride the buffalo on the merry-go-round. .

And you can't go to the zoo without going on the train. . .

On Monday Paul wanted to take Noah on a hike at Snow Basin. . .it was a beautiful day and the leaves are just beginning to change colors. .

Noah was our trusty guide. . .

And loved picking up friends along the way. This is a worm. . . .(Paul wouldn't let him pick up the dead mouse. . .)

Of course he wanted to climb. . .

The day couldn't have been better. . .

And Noah enjoyed every minute of it!

He even picked out a few of his favorite rocks from the river bed. . .

And posed on the stump of a tree so we could get a picture (this is totally out of his character. . .the elevation must have altered his thought process)

I think this smile pretty much sums up his hiking experience. .

These are a few of the momentos from Noah's hike. . . right hand, mushroom; left hand, a variety of plants; lap, rocks from the river bed; and on the hood of the car, a sappy pine cone and some berries. I think he would say he had a lot of fun! I sure did. Anyone for a hike in the beautiful Utah mountains??

No Camera. . . .

2009-09-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

SO, this is what happens when you go someplace without your camera. . . . .a BLAHG. . . .yes, no pictures. So I will give you a short rundown of our life in general. . . . . . which is mostly consumed by family/friends, work and church. That's it for now. . . . My favorite quote this week is "Laugh as Much as You Breathe and Love as Long as you Live". But, our fun weekend started with Greg and Sue, Ging and Ty, coming up on Friday night where we had an intense game of Cranium and ate way too much pizza. Good memories. On Saturday we got up early to make it to the good old Brigham City Peach Days parade. John and Mark literally camped out at the tabernacle Thursday afternoon with tarps on the sidewalk (no saving spaces until 3:00) from about 2:00 on, fighting against a bunch of women for a premier spot for us! I can't thank both of them enough for taking time off of work to make it extra nice for all of us. THANK YOU. . . .THANK YOU. . . THANK YOU. . . Needless to say, we had a great time. Jack finally had to take off his baseball cap so he had something to store all of his candy in, and Isabelle kept busy opening up wrappers. Good thing she had an easy shirt to grab onto which kept her from running out into the street into the path of clowns, horses, bands, floats and flying carpets. However, the highlight of the day for me was when we were walking into Maddox and Jack said "Grandma, do you want to go pee pee with me?" Jeff immediately told him no, that he was taking him to the boys bathroom, but is that the sweetest invitation you have ever heard? Grandchildren melt your heart.

A Busy, Fun-Filled Week!

2009-08-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

Last week is what you would call busy. . . . I worked 40 hours, spent a day with my mom, drove to Provo to see Ginger and Tyler's beautiful new condo they moved into while Tyler is back to school, but the highlight of the week was tending this little cutie pie for three days. . . . .Isabelle

Who loves playing in the water. . .

Feeding ducks. . . .

And looking out for the ducks that sneak up from behind. . . .

She's so sweet and always happy. . .

And she'll show you her beautiful eyes if you ask. . .

She'll give you kisses if you ask. . .

And she loves ice-cream. . .

So we played, read stories, splashed in the water, danced, sang, fed ducks, ate ice-cream and had a fabulous week!

How could it have been any better?

Friends You Never Forget. . .

2009-08-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday a group of our old high school friends got together for dinner at Maddox. . .

It was a spontaneous kind of thing. . .you know. . . .someone sends out a message on Facebook. . .

And then voila!!! You can get together and laugh your heads off. . .

See Marlene. . . .second from the left. . .we were dancing to "The Stripper" during half time at a basketball game and the zipper on her costume broke. . .HONEST!! We'll laugh about that until we die. . .
"Good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget."

Ordinary Life. . . .

2009-08-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

Guess what? Life around here is very ordinary. . . . nothing exciting or jaw dropping to blog about. Got the home teaching and visiting teaching done, exercised, worked, slept, had the safety and emissions test done on the car so we could get it registered, worked and slept, volunteered at the new Deseret Industries in Ogden, worked and slept, took some friends out to dinner who have just been called on a mission to SLC to be over the welfare services in the whole church, worked and slept, Bob and Lyn came for a visit on Saturday and we went for hamburgers and shakes to Jakes Over the Top, went to see the movie "The Proposal" (liked it:)!), had a dinner invitation on Sunday to the Heslops for chow mein. . . . .and it's all starting all over again. . .work. . . sleep. . . . life. BUT. . . we found out we're getting a new little grandson in January and we're still anxiously awaiting the mystery arrival of a new grandbaby in October. I got to tend Jack and Isabelle for a couple of hours and life is good. . . . . life is good. . . .

Remembering our Pioneer Ancestors. . .

2009-07-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

The Gunns sailed from England on April 17, 1855. They were in a company of 431 saints. After a five week voyage they arrived in Philadelphia on May 27th. They remained there for five years in order to obtain more means so they could make the journey westward. They left Philadelphia for the journey west in may of 1860, traveling on the railroad to St. Louis and then by boat up the Missouri River to Florence Nebraska. They left Florence on June 15, 1860, in the John Smith Company. Their group consisted of 359 Saints and 39 wagons. The Gunn-Brazier party was so large that they had three wagons and three cows to provide milk. Ben Gunn had one of the smallest wagons and teams of oxen. On one occasion they were the very last wagon, as it often was the case, and the other wagons had made deep ruts in the road. Realizing his oxen were so small, Ben was afraid they could not pull the wagon through that place. It was getting late in the afternoon. Seeing what he thought was a better place to cross, he proceeded, but did not get very far when he became stuck. It just so happened that another wagon, which had been delayed because of some repairs, happened to come along. Ben asked, "Brother, will you give me a lift out of the mud?" The other replied, "No, you were fool enough to go out of the road, so it is up to you to get out." And he went on his way. Ben Gunn unhitched his oxen and let them feed on the grass while he dug in front of the wagon wheels. After they had fed and rested for a while he rehitched them and away they went. They had not travelled very far when they came to the other wagon which had passed them. It was in far worse condition than Ben had been in. The man was too ashamed to ask for help. Ben said, "Brother, I will pull across and bring my team and give you a lift." Tears came to the other's eyes and he could not say a word. Ben hitched his team in front of the brother's and they were soon out of the mud. From that time on, that man would not pass a bad place in the road until Ben Gunn was safe on the other side.

(Related by Benjamin Gunn to his children)

It Pays to Read the Newspaper. . . .

2009-07-21T12:51:00.001-07:00

. . . So! I'm reading the Sunday newspaper in the business section and happen to stumble across this little blurb. . . . .

. . . . .Also, six TraskBritt attorneys have been selected to the 2009 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists: William S. Britt, Joseph A. Walkowski, H. Dickson Burton, Edgar R. Cataxinos, J. Jeffrey Gunn and Daniel J. Morath. . . . .

CONGRATULATIONS JEFF!!

Bob and Lynn's Wedding. . .

2009-07-16T14:35:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday we drove to SLC for a pre-wedding powwow at Liberty Park. . . .

Jeff and Greg were kind enough to come and Tommy came as well and brought his guitar. . .

The reception was in a stake center out in Taylorsville. . .

Tom and Sam were solving the world's problems. .

It was fun to visit with Jana and Danielle. . .

The family gathered for a group shot at the end of the evening. . .

Congratulations to Bob and Lynn!

Fun at the Beach 2009

2009-06-29T06:56:00.001-07:00

Fun things to do at the beach:

Hang out

Go Boogie Boarding

Eat at the Crab Cooker

Hunt for sea creatures

Be with Noah, Alex, Jack and Isabelle for an entire week

The morning donut run

Walking to the pier at night and stopping for ice-cream on the way home.

Ruby's and the Ferris Wheel at Balboa

Sleeping with the sound of ocean waves and a cool ocean breeze

Pinkberry's at Fashion Island

. . . . And the not so fun. . . . .

Sand. . . . .everywhere

Towels that won't dry at night

Meltdowns

Grocery shopping

Hot sand without any flip flops

Sunburns

Coming back to the daily grind of life!

Memorial Day. . . .

2009-06-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

"The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example." (Benjamin Disraeli, British Prime Minister 1804-1881)

This year for Memorial Day we met in Mark and Cathi's backyard for pie and ice-cream before visiting the Brigham City cemetery.

Grandma Walker enjoyed holding Walker, Jon and Karen's baby.

And we all enjoyed the pie. . . . everyone brought their favorite pie. I brought chocolate cream. . . .

We visited grandpa's grave first. . . .

then made our way to grandma's parents and great-grandparents, and grandpa's parents, also many aunts, uncles and cousins It's always fun to share memories and remember the great legacy they all left.

But most of all, it's fun to be with our extended family and make happy memories. Brooke said "next year I want to go around to all the graves and tell a little about their history like we did before". . . . . we'll do it for sure!

Our "never a dull moment" weekend. . . .

2009-05-19T08:28:00.000-07:00

Jack and Isabelle arrived on Friday for the weekend. Kori and Jeff spent the weekend in Seattle because Jeff had to be there for business on Monday. Jack arrived looking like a slime ball. He had rubbed a jar of Vicks Vaporub in his hair before arriving. Kori had washed his hair three times with no success. I googled "How to get Vaseline out of your hair". Looks like it's a common problem! I guess alot of people do it? (FYI - DON'T TRY IT!) I chose the one where you rub cornstarch all over in the hair. . . . . .as you can see, I put Jack into the tub for the application!

Then I filled up the tub and started the shampoo process. Only thing is, then Isabell wanted to get into the tub too. So they both got a corstarch/shampoo bath. . . . . YUK!

Grandpa played Dumbo Elephant with Jack. . . .Do you know why granchildren have so much energy? Because they suck it out of their grandparents!

Saturday morning we planted some tomatoes. . . Jack saw a centipede and told me to "hurry and put it back" - he didn't like it. . . .then I found a worm and showed it to him. . .he about started to cry. . .

Isabelle just played in the dirt. . . until she saw a cat and then she burst into tears! (it's very traumatic in our backyard). As you can see they're still in their pajamas. I knew they would need a bath after we planted. . . cornstarch excluded!

Jack was thrilled to be in charge of watering all the plants. . . .and he soaked himself as well. We didn't make them work the whole time. That afternoon we went to Dinosaur Park but I forgot my camera.

On Sunday after church Greg and Sue and Ging and Tyler came over for dinner. This is them trying to figure out a puzzle . . . .

"Grandchildren are God's way of compensating us for getting old. . ."

Visiting Wendi. . . .

2009-05-14T14:11:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday Ging and I picked up grandma and went to Tremonton to meet Wendi for lunch and to see her new home. . . . this is the view off of her back deck! I'm afraid I would want to sit out here all day. . .

This is Harley - Wendi's dog. Ginger loves dogs. . . . can you tell?

We ate lunch at JC's. . . . one of grandma's favorite spots. I think it's pretty good but the dessert selection leaves much to be desired. . . . .! Next time I'll take some pictures of the house. . . . I was so preoccupied with the view off the back deck that I completely forgot!

Celebrating My Mom . . .

2009-05-14T14:01:00.000-07:00

This is me and my mom at Maddox the day before Mothers Day! I am lucky to have such a great mom who taught me valuable lessons in life. Five things she taught me that I'm grateful for:

1) To think of others
2) To cook, clean, sew and manage a home
3) Not to be afraid to try something new
4) To be kind to everyone whether I like them or not
5) To stand up for the things I believe in.

These are just a few. . . . . . thank you mom!! I love you!

Oh Happy Day!

2009-05-04T15:25:00.000-07:00

These are the feet that carried Ginger through all of her years of school. . . .

Friday, May 1st, 2009. . . .

And this is the handsome guy who cracked the whip and made sure she fulfilled her potential!

He was taught well. . . .

Diploma in hand. . .

We were all excited to share in the happy event. . .

Mom and dad were especially proud. . . . AND. . . .we were able to celebrate Kori's birthday as well! Happy Birthday Kori!

On Saturday we went to SLC to participate in the Law Day 5K Walk/Run, BUT, there was a typhoon outside and only one stroller cover, so dad and I gratefully bowed out and tended Isabelle. .

That's Jack in the stroller. . . .I would have thought the light weight would be in the stroller. .

This is Kori almost at the finish line. . .

And this is Jeff pushing Jack. . . . .I wish I could be Jack!

Afterwards Jeff's firm took everyone out to breakfast at The Oasis. . . .

this is the only reason I participate every year! That and the nice shirts they give us as well!

HOWEVER. . . . .this is Isabelle giving me one of her crusties and, notice the spoon in her hand. When I got home and opened my purse. . . . . . the spoon was in my purse. Now she's made a thief out of me!

Wishing for Time Off. . .

2009-04-29T13:58:00.000-07:00

So. . . the big joke at work, since I work on the Surgical Intermediate Care floor is. . . .

"What kind of surgery can I have that will give me a few
weeks off of work with pay. . . . and use the 300 hours
I have sitting around in my sick leave bank because I'm
never sick?"

Hmmmm. . . . . .let's see. . . . tonsils. . they're gone! Appendix. . . it's gone! Uterus??? I think I'm kind of attached to it. Gallbladder? It's works like a charm! Bowel obstruction?? No thanks. . . . no NG tube down my nose thank you! Broken bones. . . . have never broken a bone in my life! Plastic surgery? I don't want to be plastic. Everything is working great. . . . . . and I'm leaving for work in two hours! I will continue to count good health as one of my greatest blessings and pray there isn't a swine flu epidemic where I have to wear a mask because. . . I HAVE CLAUSTROPHOBIA! Is there a surgery for that????

Catch Up! . . Conference, Ginger's Birthday, Easter

2009-04-13T12:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday of General Conference John and Jeff headed off to a nice, quiet dinner and Priesthood Mtg. . .

Kori, Ging, me and Jack and Isabelle headed off to the Spaghetti Factory for a non-quiet dinner - this picture was taken by Jack from the back seat. . . not bad for an amateur!

Isabelle and Jack started out happy and cooperative, but they didn't last long. After dinner Isabelle was not happy and we realized she was running a fever so we headed back home.

We gave Isabelle some Tylenol. . . . . and then she picked up this rag. . .

And started washing the walls. Good news is that in a few years she will be able to come and clean my house!!

Jack entertained us by breakdancing and, as you can see in the background, Kori tried to keep Isabelle from breaking her head!

Sunday everyone came for dinner . . it was Ginger's birthday and conference. This is Jeff trying to keep the kids under control. . .

Isabelle was feeling better by then. . .

I drove up that morning and picked up grandma so she could have dinner with us. .

Happy Birthday Ginger!!

Jack helped Ginger blow out the candles and spit on the cake while doing it! It reminded me of the bakery lady at Albertsons that was decorating a cake for me a couple of weeks ago and her nose dripped on my cake. . . .honest!! (We cut out the piece with spit on it and threw it away)!

We took our traditional trip over to the stadium so Jack could ride his bike. . .

Jeff kept an eye on Isabelle. . .

While Kori helped Jack jump the hurdles!

The Saturday before Easter. . . .

Jack took a face plant on the kitchen floor and his nose bled. . . . we cleaned it up the best we could and he posed so we could take a picture! (I think he just ate a piece of green candy!)

Dad held Isabelle. . .

While Jack ran around finding Easter eggs. . .

Kori (with video camera in hand) and Jeff watching the kids. . .

Jack with his easter eggs (notice the hat. . . . it was cold!!)

Jack gave some of his easter eggs to Isabelle. . . she didn't have a clue what they were!

I helped hide the eggs. . .

Then we got a great idea! We put the kids in the back of the truck and threw in some candy. . . genious idea!

Isabelle knew she had something great. . . . she just didn't know what it was!

The finale was dad and Jeff putting mounting the new street address sign for their house. . .

Isabelle's Birthday. . . .

2009-03-29T15:27:00.001-07:00

Greg and Isabelle share a birthday. . .we had to wish Greg a Happy Birthday by telephone, but we got to wish Isabelle a Happy Birthday in person. . .

and bring her a new pink car. . . . .probably the only pink car she will ever own unless she becomes a MaryKay consultant and sells $1,000,000 in products. . .

Oh no. . . this could spell disaster. . . .

Isabelle's cake. . . .she has to touch it first to check it out. .

Then Jack demonstrates to her how to put your finger into the cake and eat it. . . .

Ohhhhh. . . this is good. . .

Very interesting taste. . .

I LOVE my cake and birthdays!

BUT, when you eat cake with your fingers and smear it all over your face and clothes, this is where you end up. . .

in the bathtub with your brother. . .

and finally on the changing table for a clean pair of jammies!

And your mystery brother close behind!

"The best birthdays of all are those that haven't arrived yet.. ."

"Memories Make the History". . .

2009-03-24T13:17:00.001-07:00

Today I found a jar in my cupboard labeled "Memories Make the History" full of questions about memories. It is probably something I picked up in Relief Society many years ago . . . . I put my hand in the jar and this is the first question I pulled out. . . "What was my first paying job?"

Let's see, when I was very young and before I was employable, my dad paid me 25 cents an hour to tickle his feet while he laid on the couch and watched TV. When I got a little older, he paid me 25 cents an hour (I guess he did not believe in raises) to sit in his bulk plant in Tremonton, Utah and answer the phones. I would also have to clean off the oil barrels in the warehouse - he was very meticulous and if you received an oil barrel from Max Walker, you received a CLEAN one.

Abraham Lincoln said, "My father taught me to work; he did not teach me to love it."

I say, "My father taught me to work; and he taught me to love it"!

Birthdays. . . . .

2009-03-24T12:50:00.001-07:00

This month always brings back good memories of birthdays. . .

And making birthday cakes. . .

The one day of the year when you get to be the "king". . . .

And everyone wants to take your picture. . . .

Birthdays come and go. . . .

But the memories never leave. . . .

A Beautiful Day at Liberty Park. . . .Happy Birthday Jeff!

2009-03-23T12:30:00.003-07:00

"If I had my life to live over, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall. I would go to more dances. I would ride more merry-go-rounds, I would pick more daisies. . . . ."Nadine Stair

"It's spring fever. . . . You don't quite know what it is you DO want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!" Mark Twain

"Spring is Nature's way of saying. "Let's have a party!" Robin Williams

"If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose it's lovliness." Therese of Lisieux

"Spring is when life's alive in everything." Christina Rosetti

"O, how this spring of love resembleth

The uncertain glory of an April day! William Shakespeare

Let's Go Fly A Kite. . . .

2009-03-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

Let's Go Fly a Kite. . . .

Up To The Highest Height. . . .

Let's Go Fly A Kite. . .

And Send It Soaring. . . .

Up Through the Atmosphere. . .

Up Where the Air is Clear (wherever that is. . . .)

Oh Let's Go. . . . . .fly a kite. . . . .

I Feel My Savior's Love. . . .

2009-03-22T17:30:00.000-07:00

I feel my Savior's love in all the world around me.

His spirit warms my soul through everything I see.

He knows I will follow Him, give all my life to Him.

I feel my Savior's love, the love he freely gives me.

I feel my Savior's love; it's gentleness enfolds me,

And when I kneel to pray, my heart is filled with peace.

He knows I will follow Him, give all my life to Him.

I feel My Savior's love, the love he freely gives me.

I feel my Savior's love and know that he will bless me,

I offer Him my heart; my shepherd He will be.

He knows I will follow Him, give all my life to Him.

I feel my Savior's love, the love he freely gives me.

Happy Birthday John (Jeff, Greg and Isabelle). . .

2009-03-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we celebrated John's birthday. . . .he turned 57!- Greg called and thought he was 60. . . .don't do that Greg - when you get old you don't think it's very funny!

I, of course, fixed a delicious dinner. . . .

And John modeled the tie Tyler and Ging gave him. . . .

John and Ginger guarded the stairs from Isabelle and gave her play money to eat instead

While Tyler patiently played grocery store with Jack. . .

Jeff did dish duty. . . . . Jeff always does the dishes! Thank you Jeff!

And Kori works along with him clearing the table. . .

Isabelle keeps us all entertained because she is so absolutlely adorable!

And grandpa has fun playing with her!

We headed up the stadium so we could all enjoy the beautiful weather. .

And so Jack could ride his bike. . .

Try and keep up with this little hot rodder. . . .

Grandpa wheeled Isabelle around the track in the stroller. .

Jack liked ringing the big bell. . . .

And showing us what he's learning in gymnastics!!

Ginger. . . . . maybe you can take a class with Jack! After chasing Jack around the track too many times and his dad wrecking his bike (Jeff, maybe Jack can teach you how to ride a bike too). . we went home to have birthday cake. No picture. . . .I was serving cake!

One last picture of Isabelle in the carseat before they started for home!

Remembering to say "Thank You"

2009-03-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

President Hinckley shared a story once that on one occasion he "received a great shock from my mission president. I was his assistant at the time. Some of the saints in the district had with tremendous effort put on a great program. I suggested to my mission president that we write a letter of thanks to these people for what they had done. His response was, 'We do not thank people in the church for doing their duty'. "That was the only thing I ever disagreed with him about. I believe we should thank people. I that that thanks should be genuine and sincere, as it well can be when there is honest effort and dedicated service."

President Thomas S. Monson has said the two most important words in the English language are "Thank You." "Gracias, danke, merci--whatever language is spoken, 'thank you' frequently expressed will cheer your spirit, broaden your friendships, and lift your lives to a higher pathway."

The Railroad Festival. . . .

2009-03-09T13:04:00.001-07:00

Saturday John and I met Jeff and Kori at the Ogden Train Station for the annual railroad festival. . .I mean, since we have a train addict in the family we couldn't miss it!

. . . I wasn't referring to Isabelle. . . we just drag her along whether she likes trains or not. . .she's so happy she doesn't seem to mind.

Grandpa kept a close eye on Jack and Jack kept a close eye on all of the trains. .

Jeff wandered into the Browning gun museum and John took off trying to keep up with Jack. Kori and I finally found them upstairs. . .

Jack was mesmerized by all of the trains. . . .

And Kori and I took turns carrying around Isabelle. . .

Isabelle, of course, is the happiest when she's with mom!

Jack took a ride around the parking lot in the Rio Grande. . . .

This is what it's like to be a kid. . . . . you ride around in a circle three times in a miniature train and you think the world is wonderful!

Grandpa entertained Isabelle and helped her walk a little. . .(it won't be long). . .

While Jeff took Jack into the actual trains. . .

He was the only one strong enough to climb the ladder and handle Jack at the same time. . .

Great day at the train station. . . . ."Goodbye" says Jack!

Saturday With Jack and Isabelle. . . .

2009-03-01T14:25:00.001-08:00

Saturday we decided to go to SLC to see Jack and Isabelle. We started out with a ride around the block in the little red wagon. . .as you can see, Jack is apprehensive about the whole thing. . .

But he soon has a smile on his face and we're off and going!

This is a rare picture of both Jack and Isabelle IN the wagon.

As soon as we got started Jack would say "WAIT!! I see something - and out of the wagon he would bound. . . . .this is a "scary forest"

WAIT!! I see something. . . . . a stick. . . . . .

WAIT!! I see something. . . . .a rock. . . . . .and an old tennis ball, and a candy wrapper, and a rock with dinosaurs painted on it. . . .I was afraid we were going to end up at the hospital with head trauma so I told Jack that he had to say "STOP THE WAGON" before he got out. He was very obedient and the walk around the block only took about two hours!

When we got back to the house we decided to have an easter egg hunt. . . .

When you have an easter egg hunt with Jack he hides all the eggs and he finds all the eggs. . . .

You don't have to do anything. . . . . except keep an eye on Isabelle.

He just piles them all up in a nice neat pile. . . .

We went inside to get some rest after all of our work watching Jack, and Isabelle immediately headed for the stairs . . . . . . OF COURSE!!

But most of the time she is happy messing up Jack's train set!

You feed her two containers of baby food and she immediately zones out for about 30 minutes!

Meanwhile, Jack keeps you entertained with all kinds of antics. . . .

And he will happily play and play and play. . . . .however. . . . this is what eventually happens when you climb in and out of a wagon 350 times!

The Toothfairy Visited Noah!

2009-02-25T14:12:00.001-08:00

Boy. . . does that ever bring back memories! So I asked Noah yesterday. . .Noah, what does the tooth fairy look like?

Noah: She's small

Is she young or old?

Noah: She's young

Is she pretty or ugly?

Noah: She's pretty!

He obviously knows it's his mother!!!!

Grandma Passed Her Driving Test!!

2009-02-17T18:50:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday At A Glance. . . .

2009-02-17T13:22:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we met at Maddox to celebrate grandma's birthday. . . and this is the best picture I was able to get of her. . . .honest! When I mentioned to her last week that she was turning 79, she argued with me and said she was only 78. She was born in 1930 but I guess after a certain age you start counting backwards!. . . . I'm not sure how we'll explain the big 80 year birthday celebration we'll be having for her next year!

Wendi and Doug were able to carve out enough time to come as well. Doug's dad passed away on Thursday so they were right in the middle of making all of the funeral arrangements. This is what happens when your parents get old. . . . you celebrate birthdays and you have funerals.

Mark and Cathi came as well. By the way, have you seen Brooke on KSL lateley? She does the morning news, then her show Studio 5 then the noon news. Brooke is literally keeping KSL up and running and doing an awesome job!!

We left Maddox and went to Salt Lake so we could spend some time with Jack and Isabelle while Jeff and Kori went out for Valentines Day. This is Jack watching "Horton Hears a Who" which we brought for him for Valentines Day. He started out like this but pretty soon every time he saw Horton he buried his head in dad's shoulder. Finally he said "I don't like this movie". . . . GREAT!!!

This is our beautiful Isabelle basking in her grandpa's love. . . . is this sweet or what?

This is Isabelle throughout the evening. . . . happy. . . happy. . . . happy. . . . .BUT

DON'T BE FOOLED!!!
When it got time for bed, I gave her a warm bottle, sang to her, rocked her, put her in her crib and she turned into the baby from hell. She stood up in her crib and screamed her head off and threw her pacifier out on the floor. . . . . . .screamed some more and threw her pacifier out on the floor. . . .screamed some more and threw her pacifier out on the floor. . . . . .this went on for approximately one hour. I tried every thing I knew. . . . I kept going in and laying her down and giving her back her pacifier, then I sang to her again from the kitchen. . . then I told her she was the naughtiest child I had ever know and she'd better shape up or I was hauling her down to the corner and taking the highest bid (not really, but I felt like it). . . . .and she would not give in. Finally I mixed up 2 more ozs of formula and gave her a bottle in her bed. . . . .she finally gave in and went to sleep. Ahhhh. . . . . now I remember why having grandchilren is so nice. . . . . . .dad and I went home and slept the entire night!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T00:30:00.000-08:00

Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies. . . . .-Aristotle

Visiting Jack and Isabelle. . .

2009-02-08T13:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning (after working all night) I woke up around 11:00 am to find out that I had missed the big news. . . . . ."Mr Imagination" had gone you know what in the you know where. . . . . . . quite an accomplishment is this crazy mixed up world! If you want to find out what things in life are really important, spend some time with a child. . . .

I immediately headed to SLC to see Jack and Isabelle. John had been bitten by the flu bug since Wednesday (that's what happens when you forget to get your flu vaccine) and was still too sick to feel like going anywhere! Being the good nurse that I am, I left him on his own and visited Jeff and Kori. Great day for me. . . .not so great for John.

Saturday With Grandma. . . .

2009-02-01T12:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday after I slept all morning, dad and I went up to Brigham City to spend the day with grandma. . . I immediately started searching for her lost hearing aid. . . we practically tore the house apart but I still couldn't find it. Does anyone have an extra $2,000 that they don't need right now?
Dad started out by vacuuming through her house. Her vacuum weighs about 100 lbs and is really hard to push. She says her cleaning lady did it on Tues??? (I think her cleaning lady is blind)

After that he went outside and fixed her rain gutter which was barely hanging on and filled to the brim with all kinds of interesting things. . . .

I worked on the inside. . . . .grandma missed her hair appointment this week because Mark had to take her to her driving test and she couldn't handle doing both of them in the same day. . .so I did her hair and was crazy scared that I was going to burn her with the curling iron. . . .(but I didn't:)

And then, of course, there's the pills. . . .After that we headed to the Idle Isle so she could demonstrate her driving skills. . . . I hung on for my life. She wasn't too bad. . . . .but she wasn't great either. She is happy that she has two more chances. . .she says with glee in her voice "I'm still in it!" I really hope she can pass - she enjoys driving to the cemetery so much. . . I just don't want her to end up in it any time soon. . . .

She loves the strawberry milkshakes at the Idle Isle. . . . I just had to get a picture of her enjoying it!

We enjoyed a good lunch - it's always fun to go there. . . . it brings back such good memories! Dad talked about Ginger working there and how she always hated people who ordered milkshakes! Grandma started talking about when she and grandpa were first married and they were living in Pocatello and grandpa was managing a service station there. She was pregnant with Wendi and she said one night when grandpa was working at the station all night she decided to walk to the service station to see him and stay the night with him. It was a long walk and she started having some labor pains, but she made it and she said "that was a long miserable night". But, the next morning they walked across the street to a little cafe and had breakfast. A few weeks later they came down on the train to Brigham City for Christmas and Parla (grandpa Jones) met them at the train station. She wasn't feeling good at all and ended up going into labor and delivering Wendi two months early (December 22). Wendi had to stay in the hospital for several weeks so grandpa had to go back to Pocatello to work and grandma stayed in Brigham. When Wendi finally came home Grandma said she had to get up three times every night to feed Wendi because she was so little. . . . . .she enjoyed telling the story and reminiscing.

After lunch we went to the cemetery so we could see the other half of the family. We stopped to see the grave of our good friend and home teacher Bob Bennett - the scripture on the base is Helaman 5:12. . . ." remember that is is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, that we must build our foundation. . ." so typical of how Bob lived his life.

A nice ending to an enjoyable and beautiful Saturday. . . . . . how did you spend yours?

Tidbits of Life This Past Week. . .

2009-01-30T12:08:00.001-08:00

Paul, Summer, Noah and Alex went back to Minnesota. I cried on and off for half of the morning. . .they have lived too far away for too long and it's wearing on me. Seeing them twice a year is pathetic. . . . and right now it's the best we can do. It's going on five years now that they have been away and I can count on both hands the number of times we have seen them. . . . .I try not to think about it or I feel overwhelming sadness.

Which brings me to Greg and Sue. Greg was accepted to the U of U Quinney Law School - the best news ever. BUT, it's not his first choice. . . .they want to live somewhere else as well. So they're still waiting and hoping for a "better" opportunity. Our goal in life was to raise strong, independent children. We didn't think it would backfire. . . . .

I made it through the week though. . . . .had an eye exam, worked, bought a new car seat, picked up Jack on The Frontrunner and spent the day with him,(the most fun), met Jeff and Kori for dinner, did our home teaching, visiting teaching, wrote a talk for ward conference, went to lunch with Alev and Bridgette from work, cleaned the house and ran errands, kept in touch with grandma, Wendi, Al and Mark . . . and slept. . . . . .blissfully slept.

Life is generally good. . . I have good health (but can I say arthritis sucks??), employment, a great husband and children that I can't brag about because their success is too overbearing (unless you're their mother.) And I realize I have many weaknesses, which I have had time to think alot about lately. . . . ."I give men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." (Ether 12:27)

So, for now, I'm accepting my weaknesses, (apparently they were given to me for a purpose), trying to be more humble and hoping my weaknesses will be made strong. That's my goal for now. . . . . I'm working on it. . . . .

Paul and Summer Come to Utah!!

2009-01-23T14:59:00.000-08:00

Paul and Summer finally made it back to Utah. . .

And Jack and Isabelle finally had some cousins to play with!

Ging and I with our beautiful Isabelle at The California Pizza Kitchen

The train ride on the The Frontrunner . . .

I think you can tell by the look on Jack's face what a great time he was having. . .

Grandpa snuggling with our little hippy Alex. . .

Sleeping over at grandma's in new pajamas. . . .

Our adorable hippy eating her Mac and Cheese. . .

Our sweet Jack who blessed the Macaroni and Cheese. . . . did you know you can bless the food while eating it at the same time???

Our sweet Noah who is growing up too fast! (By the way. . . .who drinks water with Mac and Cheese???? ) What is this world coming to if you can't have a glass of milk because you might get constipation?

Our beautiful Isabelle didn't sleep over, but she modeled her new pajamas anyway. . .

And she's always happy!

The Treehouse Museum was fun! Jack was content to stay at the train table the entire time. . .

Alex was fascinated with the dolls. . .

And Noah was fascinated with everything. (You have to be in shape to run after these kids - good thing Paul came along with us)

Jack found a magnetic toy that kept his interest for a short time, but then it was back to the train table.

Alex had fun playing with the puppets. . .

We were lucky to get one last picture on the big red fire engine. . . . .

A great week that we'll remember for a long time. . . . .

"Being a grandparent is God's reward for not killing your children". . . . .

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-02T09:36:00.000-08:00

This is as close to a New Year's party as I could get. . . . . .you make do with wherever you are!!
Happy New Year!!

Goodbye Greg and Sue. . . .

2009-01-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was our last day with Greg and Sue. . . .

We decided to take them to the top of Snow Basin on the gondola. . . .

A breathtaking view. . .

But one. . . .

That can take your breath away! We love you. . . .see you in six months!

What to Do About Christmas. . . . .

2009-01-02T08:52:00.000-08:00

This year belonged to the in-laws. . . .so what to do about Christmas for our family?

This is when it becomes complicated. . . .everyone on different schedules and Greg and Sue flying in from Phoenix. . .

We ended up in a coffee shop in Salt Lake City. . . .

Between Greg and Sue's arrival and their trip to Heber to be with her family. .

Celebrating Christmas in a coffee shop is not what I ever imagined would be in our future. . .

But gifts were exchanged. . .

and. . .

we were together. . . .

for a couple of hours. . . . and this is where the pictures end. . . . .because on Christmas Day it was our year to be alone. . . .we woke up, read the newspaper, watched the video "Reflections of Christ", soaked in the hot tub and I went off to work. . . . . .where one of my patients died within 30 minutes of my arrival. And then you see that Christmas is not the same for everyone. . . but the true meaning of Christmas is.

Walker Family Christmas Party. . . .

2009-01-02T07:54:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember, we have gathered together as an extended family during the holiday season. . . .

It use to be that we would get together on Christmas Eve in grandma and grandpa's basement. . . . .

But things change over time. . . . the family started getting bigger, grandpa died and grandma kept getting older. . . .

For a few years we met in our basement in Brigham City, but, the family kept growing. . .

And this is where we are now. . . . . meeting in a church with plenty of room to eat, play games, visit and run around. Our extended family gathering has grown to 50+, but it isn't the same for me anymore. . . Paul and Summer are in Rochester, Greg and Sue are in Phoenix and, this year, Ginger and Tyler are in Aruba.

Traditions keep going on, but life changes. . . . . . and you realize that things can never stay the same. . .

Joy to the World. . . .

2008-12-25T09:25:00.000-08:00

Oh Those Family Christmas Letters. . . .

2008-12-24T17:25:00.000-08:00

Gunn Family At A Glance 1986. . . .

JEFF: Cub Scout- most improved piano player - BYU football fan- dependable babysitter (but not cheap!) Enjoys football, pizza, going to the ocean, bossing Paul around. Hates practicing piano, little sisters that get into his things, the sun to go down.

PAUL: Good student, infectious giggle, dependable, unlimited energy, loves pulling teeth, saving money, spending everyone else's money, family night, sharing his bed with 500 stuffed animals, hates haircuts, wearing coats, sitting still for more than one minute.

GREG: Apprehensive kindergarten student, TALL but still a baby at heart. Affectionate. Loves riding his bike, building snowmen, jumping out and scaring people into cardiac arrest, helping his dad light fires. Hates growing up so he can't suck his thumb - getting ready for school, doing chores.

GINGER: Enjoying every minute of the terrible two's. Determined to wear make-up and paint her own toenails. Loves gummi bears, helping herself to baby aspirin, mom's high heels, swimming in the "lotion" (ocean). Hates having her picture taken, wearing her own shoes, sitting in the grocery cart, a visit to the store without getting a treat!

Merry Christmas. . . . . Memories. . . . .

2008-12-24T17:08:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure the year these pictures were taken. . . . .

GUNNS AT A GLANCE 1984

Jeff is our oldest and is attending the second grade. He enjoys soccer, drawing and cutting out, riding bikes with his buddies and is rather intrigued with breakdancing. Because of his serious, reserved nature though, he is a little hesitant about performing for anyone other than family. He has a special place in his heart for animals and so recently we inherited a stray cat he rescued and named Patches. We are all anticipating Jeff's baptism in three more months!

Paul is our rambunctious five year old who is enthusiastic about life and bursting with energy. He started kindergarten this year and really enjoys it. His teacher says he talks too much - which doesn't surprise me. He loves his Masters of the Universe toys, riding his bike and playing Hide 'n Seek across the street at the church.

Gregory is three and tried hard to be grown up but is still our baby in alot of ways. He's mischievous, to say the least, and giggles uncontrollably at every opportunity (especially at the dinner table). He enjoys helping mom bake cookies (and eating the dough), playing house with his friend Doris (I keep a close watch) and watching Mr. Rogers on television.

Ginger is our new addition this year and were we ever thrilled to get a girl. She has an angel of a disposition and just recently began crawling. Her brothers shower her with alot of love and affection.