Mark and Vicky Van Sickle

River walk with Uncle Charlie

2012-01-11T13:07:00.001-07:00

I was 35 degrees and sunny, so we took a walk down by the river with Uncle Charlie on January 9th

2 weeks at the cabin

2012-01-11T12:37:00.001-07:00

I've never stayed that long at the cabin. We did have a 2 day break when we came home for Evan's birthday party.Amber and I decided to buy a year family membership at the Island Park Village Clubhouse. We went swimming after our sledding on Wednesday the 4th.Samuel loved the Nemo swimming suit we borrowed for him. Just before we left, he stared at all the creatures on it and then took them off. Very funny.

This is the kiddie pool. Just perfect for the boys, they can touch the bottom.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-11T12:12:00.001-07:00

Evan, Amber, Shaun, and the twins all arrived at 10:30am. We unwrapped gifts, the boy were happy to help everyone.Then Mark and I left at 4:30pm to spend two weeks at the cabin.

Christmas Eve 2011

2012-01-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

Katie and Brennon came over today. Katie and I made some fudge and Christmas candies. We had a nice ham dinner. I had a wonderful and happy day!I bought a beautiful pointsettia from Town and Country Gardens (it was a choir fundraiser). They had so many beautiful pointsettias. However, I forgot to take a pictured of the one I bought.

On ordinary Day

2011-12-10T17:47:00.003-07:00

On ordinary Saturday Winter Day.
Mark spent most of the day at his USPSA pistol shoot. There were six stages and it lasted until 2pm.
At 1pm Evan, Amber, Shaun, and the twins and I went to the Olive Garden for lunch. We all enjoyed the soup and salad lunch and talked for an hour and a half. Just as we were getting ready to leave, Mark called and he came and joined us. We waited while he finished his soup and salad too.
Then Mark and I took Samson to the new dog park with Evan and his dog Wally. The winter weather was great-it was an ordinary sunny winter day. We stayed for a little over an hour.

My last week in Twin Falls

2011-12-05T19:32:00.002-07:00

I drove back to Twin Falls early, early Tuesday morning on November 29th to babysit Nancy's little children for the last time. Nancy worked on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Victor flew in on Wednesday evening and began to load the U-haul Truck.

8am on Saturday, Nancy and Victor departed for Lafayette, Indiana.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-05T19:24:00.002-07:00

There were 8 adults for dinner: Newlyweds Katie and Brennon, Nancy, Evan, Amber and Shaun, Mark and I. I had the kids picnic table in the kitchen for the twins, Sam and Will, and Tommy. Whitney of course did not need a place to sit. I bought her Turkey baby food, but she hated it and acted like she was gagging. Nancy and Katie put up our christmas tree for us while I cooked dinner. Our christmas tree is beautiful and it was so nice to get it up and dinner was really good.

Visit to Smithfield

2011-12-04T01:12:00.000-07:00

I went to Smithfield, Utah to visit my mom and sister.

Back in Twin Falls again

2011-11-16T23:25:00.004-07:00

Nancy finally came to stay at my house. We arrived at my house at 11:30pm on November 11, 2011

We traveled back to Twin Falls late Monday night so Nancy could work Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and I could take care of Tommy and Whitney.

Whenever Whitney got attention, Tommy wanted to be included too.

Tommy at his "wild" time of day - using up all his energy

Grandma and Tommy watching his favorite movie "Cars"

November 17, 2011

Visiting Betty and Dawn in Victoria

2011-11-16T23:22:00.002-07:00

Mark and I arrived at Dawn's house (Uncle Charlie's sold his home to Dawn) at noon on November 5th. We flew home on November 11th.

We spent most of our time helping Betty with her finances. When Dawn and David moved in all her papers got thrown away by accident.

We drove to Goliad to Betty's sister's old home. She died 2 years ago and it sits just like it was when she died.

A Day with Robyn

2011-11-16T23:10:00.001-07:00

On November 4th my son Ben drove me to the Seattle airport. I picked up my rental car and d rove to Robyn's home. I didn't arrive there until 3pm. We talked and visited, and she showed me her awesome garden. She works hard on her garden and it shows. Then David, Robyn, her friend and I went to dinner at a mexican restaurant. Then we went to the Houston Symphony. I really enjoyed it. Then we walked around downtown because David wanted to show us where his new office would be. Then we drove to Danny's eagle Project, strain. When we got back to the house Robyn and I stayed up until 310am am talking. The next morning I was late getting up and therefore late getting to the airport to pick up Mark.

Trip to Ben & Becky's House

2011-11-16T23:05:00.001-07:00

I left Idaho Falls at 3:30am on October 27th. I left my car at Nancy's house and drove with VICTOR AND Nancy's to the Ben and Becky's home in Auburn, Washington.

The Twins Birthday Party

2011-11-16T23:03:00.001-07:00

Pictures to come

No Fall this year!

2011-10-06T14:14:00.002-06:00

It snowed all day long on Octoberbo 6th.

Visiting Nancy

2011-10-06T14:12:00.002-06:00

Nancy's 28th Birthday at the Cabin

2011-10-06T13:58:00.001-06:00

Whitney and Tommy were so cute watching a movie together!

I enjoyed the weekend at the cabin!

Nancy's 28th Birthday at the Cabin

2011-10-06T13:55:00.001-06:00

I had a fun weekend at the cabin!

Labor Day in Utah

2011-09-11T17:52:00.001-06:00

I went back to Utah for Labor Day Weekend. I wanted to be close to mom, so I could spend time with her each day, so I camped up Smithfield Canyon.

My mom broke her hip

2011-09-11T17:51:00.001-06:00

Mom fell on her 81st Birthday and broke her hip. She had surgery later that morning.

Katheryn's Wedding

2011-09-11T17:50:00.000-06:00

Katheryn was at beautiful bride!

Fun at the Cabin in August

2011-09-11T17:49:00.000-06:00

We had a lot of fun at the fun in August.

Knee surgery

2011-07-24T21:38:00.002-06:00

I had knee surgery on Tuesday, July 19th. It sure has been painful. The first 3 days I couldn't put any weight on my right leg (the right knee was operated on). And that it difficult to get around at all. I injured my knee back on June 13th. We moved alot of equipment in the rain and mud, and I must of damaged my knee at that time. Because on June 14th, I couldn't even stand on that leg.

Katie's Bridal Shower

2011-07-21T04:39:00.006-06:00

We had a Bridal Shower at my house on July 16th. Cassie, Katie's Maid of Honor gave the shower for her. During the day there was a Miller Family Reunion. Katie and Brennon went swimming with them at the new Rexburg swimming pool. The shower began at 7:30pm.

We had a Bridal Shower at my house on July 16th. Cassie, Katie's Maid of Honor gave the shower for her. During the day there was a Miller Family Reunion. Katie and Brennon went swimming with them at the new Rexburg swimming pool. The shower began at 7:30pm.

July Fourth Celebration

2011-07-21T04:36:00.001-06:00

My plans kept changing and that was stressful. My work schedule changed to, adding to the confusion. I ended up having to work Sunday the 3rd and Tuesday the 5th.
Pictures to follow.

Cedar Badge Adventure

2011-07-21T04:34:00.001-06:00

On June 10th I went to the Island Park Scout camp for Cedar Badge staff week.
More Details and pictures to follow.

Granddaughter Whitney's Blessing

2011-07-21T04:32:00.001-06:00

My granddaughter Whitney Sutherland was blessed on June 5th.
Pictures and details to be added later.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-07-12T15:13:00.003-06:00

The weather has been cold, and rivers are running really high so they postponed our regular Alpine Club Rafting trip to the Salmon River.
So we all went to the cabin in Island Park where we could stay warm.

Blacktail

2011-07-12T15:03:00.003-06:00

Well, I took a part time job at Blacktail Ririe Reservoir. It always depends on the weather. My shift was cancelled today. yeah

mmm....well I took some pictures up there, I just can't locate them right now.

Sinus surgery

2011-05-18T22:28:00.002-06:00

Last December my nose doctor, Terry Baker, determined that I need sinus surgery. I post poned the surgery in January, and then again in March, and I finally had it done on May 17th.

Sky goes to dog heaven

2011-05-18T22:25:00.003-06:00

Katie took Sky to the vet on Monday at 3:30pm to have him put to sleep.

Katie and I buried Sky Tuesday morning just before she drove me to the hospital for my sinus surgery.

Mark's Birthday, Mother's Day, and my May visit to Nancy's family

2011-05-18T22:21:00.010-06:00

Mark turned 55 on May 6th. I made him a nice big omelet for his birthday breakfast.

I drove to Smithfield, Utah on Mother's Day in the afternoon. I ended up going late so I stayed overnight in Mom's downstairs family room. Dear Abby made a bed up for me. I made the hug shawl for mom and found a sun hat to match it.

Danny made this really nice cat and dog house. The bottom is for their new dog Ann, and the top is for their 2 rag doll cats.

On Monday afternoon I drove to Nancy's home in Twin Falls. I lost my way trying to take the short cut down to I-15.

Tommy drinking the milk out of his new cereal bowl.

I stayed there until Thursday. I got home at 4:30pm that day and then taught a class at Roundtable for Cubmasters at 7pm.

Easter Egg Hunt in Twin Falls

2011-05-04T15:59:00.004-06:00

I arrived at Nancy's home in Twin Falls just in time for lunch and their Easter Egg Hunt.

The home I lived in from 1969 on

2011-05-04T15:39:00.004-06:00

I left my dorm on the BYU campus in Provo, Utah at 7am. We awoke to 2 to 3 inches of new snow this morning!

I stopped in Salt Lake City to see my old home. My dad helped to build it and my mom and dad lived there for 41 years. I loved this home, we have many happy memories here.

Women's Conference 2011

2011-05-04T15:26:00.006-06:00

I really enjoyed attending Women's Conference at BYU Provo. The first day the weather was beautiful.

I think the BYU campus is beautiful - right next to the Wasastch mountain range.

A group called "Vocal Point" that performed at the Thursday night concert.

We awoke Saturday morning to several inches of snow!

My last day of work at the Post Office

2011-05-04T15:21:00.003-06:00

Wednesday, April 27, 2011 was my last day of work at the Post Office. I first began to work at the Post Office in December 1976.

The Postmaster bought some cupcakes to share with the clerks to celebrate.

Whitney's 2nd Day

2011-04-20T23:11:00.004-06:00

California Trip 2011 Part 2

2011-04-20T15:46:00.008-06:00

WITH MY SON BEN'S FAMILY
For Christmas 2010 Ben gave me many gifts; and that was taking me with them on a really fun trip with his family.

Thursday, March 3, 2011 Our first stop was at McDonalds to eat.

It was a longer drive to Sea World than Ben thought.

My granddaughter Evie walks really well for being just 8 months old.

Kiersten, age 3 and Kara, age 5 out on our balcony.

We arrived at our nice hotel on Mission Bay.

The view from our balcony was great.

That evening we went to the Historical San Diego area.

I bought a hat to shade me from the sun at Sea World.

They gave us a map of Disneyland and Kiersten was very interested in reading it.

November 2010 Washington Trip

2011-04-19T22:09:00.004-06:00

I was looking through my pictures and realized I didn't post any pictures of my fun trip back in November 2010.

My cat Gizmo always knows when I'm packing to go somewhere. He hopped in my suitcase and looked at me like he was saying "Take me"

Becky and the girls love to cook together.

We went to visit Jason and his new wife Lisa.
We also met Jason's cat from outer space.

My new granddaughter

2011-04-19T14:05:00.011-06:00

I arrived about a half hour after Nancy's baby girl was born.

Cupcakes for the proud new dad to share, instead of bubble gum cigars.

Then I left and went to get Tommy to meet his new sister. He didn't show any interest in her.

TUESDAY MORNING
Little Whitney has tons of dark hair - it's looks much better after being washed and a bow added.

Tommy finally wanted to see what mom was holding. He climbed up on the bed with Nancy and his new baby sister Whitney.

And then Tommy wanted a really close up view of his new sister. He laid like this for a while just staring at her. It was so precious!!! I'm glad I was there to get to see him meet his new sister.

He kissed her too before he was done.

I brought Tommy back home for a nap.

Mark's surgery

2011-03-26T03:20:00.003-06:00

Mark had back surgery on March 23rd. He is still in Mountain View Hospital. His doctor said he would be off work for 6 weeks to 3 months. I hope he starts feeling better soon.

Mark had to use a walker to get around at first.

These are the two bars along side Marks spine now.

The incision is only 4 and a half inches long.

Mark actually liked wearing comfortable pajamas.

His pain medicine made Mark feel "foggy" and he did and said some funny things.

California trip 2011 Part 1

2011-03-13T21:31:00.012-06:00

I traveled with the Idaho State Bengal Dancers
February 25, 2011, Friday
We all flew out of Idaho Falls on Allegiant airlines to Long Beach, California. It is so nice to be able to drive 10 minutes to the Idaho Falls airport, and Mark drove me. When we arrived in California it was raining, and yes, I and my luggage were wet by the time I got in my nice Nisson Altima Hybrid Car. (I really like my rental car, and it is so silent you can't even tell when the engine is on.)
I loved my rental car. It was nice to drive. It was a Nisson Maxima Hybrid.

Our hotel was right next to an outdoor shopping center.
We left soon after to walk to Mimi's Cafe, where we had a yummy dinner. This picture is of Katie waiting with the team at Mimi's Cafe.
Then we walked to the movie theatre in Downtown Disney and the coach paid for us to all go to a movie, Gnome and Juliet. I fell asleep at some point. Then we waited at the theatre while a few cars drove people back because it was after midnight, cold, and windy.

It was 1am by the time I went to bed. Katie's room is just 3 doors down from mine. It is fun being with a group of beautiful young girls.

I ate with the parents at Bubba Gump's one night. It was good seafood. And the restaurant is based on the movie "Forest Gump".

As Katie's team left to fly back to Idaho, I drove off to go to my Uncle Keith's home in Sanger, a suburb of Fresno.
This is his yard. He has a flock of peacocks that just wander around the yard.

When my kids were young and we visited Uncle Keith they had a ton of fun playing in the pool (which was actually filled with water back then)
Uncle Skip drove down from Sunnyville on Wednesday to spend the day with us. It was great to spend some time with my funny uncles.

The last night Debbie and I went shopping at Wal Mart to get everything on his shopping list. They are arriving tommorrow at noon.

Many moons

2011-02-12T08:27:00.010-07:00

It has been many moons since I posted anything on my blog. Since my daughters like to use this blog site, I guess I'll try to update mine.

February 11, 2011 Friday
I felt old today because I took off work 2 hours early for doctor appointments. Mark and I spent 2 hours getting our hearing tested. I have some volume and clarity loss, but Mark's is worse, especially his left ear. If we could afford it, we would order a fancy, expensive hearing aid for him. He has another appointment in 6 months. Then I had to go the Sleep doctor. I turned in my home study sleep machine and got another one to do this weekend. Then I did errands and had an eye doctor appointment. I got new contacts last Saturday and he needed to check my eyes. He is going to order a different pair of contacts for me to see if he can improve my vision even more.

As I arrived home, Mark did too with the twins. I had a terrific evening spending time with the twins, Sam and Will, while Amber and Shaun went to a dance.

This is my new suitcase I bought for my California trip.

And here I am in my green and yellow shirts ready to cheer on the Green Bay Packers for the Super Bowl.

Main Salmon River rafting trip

2010-08-24T21:09:00.006-06:00

Thursday
I've been so excited for this trip. The opportunity just came up a week ago. I've always wanted to do the rafting trip on the Main Salmon River through the Frank Church Wilderness.
6pm We arrived at Greg Hulets home in Idaho Falls. (The Alpine Club's rafting director).
8:00pm We had the trailer packed with the rafts and all our gear, we had stopped for taco fast food, and finally drove onto the freeway to drive to Corn Creek-which is at the end of the road up from North Fork. (43 miles up from North Fork)
We camped at the campground next to the Corn Creek Boat ramp.
Our party of 7 consisted of Greg Hulet, Mark, and I from Idaho Falls, Lanie Benson from Driggs, Mark and Cheryl Hoza from Bozeman, MT, and Stormy Hulet and Marcie from Utah State in Logan. We took 3 rafts; 2 blue Maravia, and the big yellow club raft.
Mark,and I were in the yellow raft with Lanie Benson as our oarsman.
Friday
The ranger at Corn Creek inspects your gear and gives a lecture on sticking with the Leave No Trace requirements.
12:30pm We finally left Corn Creek Boat ramp and on to our wilderness adventure!
Today we saw a black bear walking beside the river as we floated by, a bald eagle sitting in a tree next to the river,
7pm We finally arrived at our reserved camp site along the river. Which by campsite they mean a flat area on the beautiful white sand beaches to pitch your tents on. I'm not sure you'd be able to figure out which sandy beach was yours without GPS.
Saturday
It seemed like a long, calm day on the river. We had to cover more miles than usual because this is supposed to be a 6 day trip and we opted to do it in 5 days.
Mark and I cooked dinner this evening.
Sunday
We had the most rapids today. It was a fun day on the water.
Monday
This evening a herd of 7 Mountain sheep walked on the mountain just above our camp. We just sat in our camp chairs on the beautiful white sand beach and watched them slowly work their way across the mountain.
This afternoon a bee got tangled in my hair that was loose under a bandana and my wet suit and it stung me on my neck.
10:30pm The night was so beautiful we sat on the beach talking for longer than we had planned. Each night we would sit in our camp chairs in a circle to talk. We never had a campfire since you have to carry out the ashes with you from this wilderness area.
Tuesday
7am Mark and I got up. We provided breakfast this morning. It was cold and breezy this morning.
9:10am the rafts were packed and ready to go. 11 minutes later we pushed off and out on to the river in the sunshine. It was a beautiful morning and the scenery was beautiful. We stopped on a sandy beach for lunch. We passed another group of chuckers. We did several fun rapids and the most exciting was Vinegar Rapids. Then I was practicing rowing. (I kept calling it oaring) and Lanie (our oarsman-he is 62) decided I had improved enough to do the last class 2 rapid. Well we went sideways into the second hole (we only had 3 people on our raft). Well; Lanie got washed out, my backpack, and I lost an oar. It made such an exciting end to our trip.
2:25pm We pulled out of the "River of No Return" on to the boat ramp.
4:00pm We had everything loaded and ready to leave. We started the long drive back to Idaho Falls. The nearest city when you get off the river is Riggins, Idaho. As we drove on the dirt road we came upon a small black bear. We stopped and he was really scared. He very quickly climbed a tree. We took pictures of him, he came down and walked off. Then we stopped to picked black raspberries along the road above the river. We stopped in Weiser and ate at Idaho Pizza Company (we called ahead and ordered).
2:20am We arrived back at our home in Idaho Falls.
It was truely an awesome trip and I'm hoping I'll be able to go again someday.
As for pictures, it's the same old story. I need to find the cord to get the pictures off of my phone. My camera is another story altogether. On day 3 I stepped on a large rock that turned out to be slick and fell into the river. I'm not sure my knee will ever be the same again. We had just gone on a short hike and my camera was in my pocket. It has been drying out for days now. I'm afraid to put the battery back in and see if I destroyed my camera.

Celebrating the Fourth of July at the cabin

2010-07-04T07:46:00.000-06:00

We had a great time celebrating the Fourth of July at the cabin in Island Park.

Shaun's Surprise Birthday Party

2010-04-21T09:28:00.001-06:00

On April 17th our daughter Amber gave Shaun a huge surprise birthday party at our house. It was a great party. I will post pictures later.

Tommy, Nancy, and Victor came to visit

2010-04-21T09:22:00.003-06:00

April 9th and 10th, 2010

I was trilled to have my grandson Tommy, and his parents Nancy and Victor come from Twin Falls to visit me. We had Shaun, Amber, the twins, and Evan over for dinner too. It was a fun evening.

Easter 2010

2010-04-07T09:24:00.002-06:00

This Easter was a little different than usual. A heavy, wet blanket of snow fell during the wee hours of the morning on Easter in Salt Lake City. The weather continued to improve, so we waited for the snow to melt until 2pm to have a fun Easter Egg hunt. We were much smaller in numbers this year. The kids hunt had just 3: Trevor, Colter, and Chloe. Trevor found the most money. The young adult hunt had 4: Abby, Brennon, Katie, and Evan. Abby found the most money. Then we had a small old adult hunt with 3: Danny, Pam, and I. It was fun. Pam found the most money. We had a nice dinner cooked by Danny at 5:30pm. We played a few games, and then it was time to go home. I sure did miss all my family members who weren't there. And of course my mom worried me by saying that this was her last Easter. But, we had a fun weekend.

My Birthday and I am not a senior citizen!

2010-03-31T09:33:00.002-06:00

My birthday celebration has been spread out, and it sure has helped to face the big dreaded DOUBLE FIVE Birthday. And no, I don't feel any different, and not I'm not a senior citizen!
On March 13th I was visiting Nancy and Victor for the weekend in Twin Falls. Nancy made me a delicious birthday dinner: spinach lasagna. It was nice that I was able to celebrate with them. They gave me a battery operated Dolphin fountain.
On March 30th my visiting teachers delivered 3 beautiful pink roses to my work. Since then I've been getting birthday wishes from all my co-workers too.
Then that evening Amber cooked me another delicious birthday dinner: swedish meatballs, my favorite vegies, and a fantastic cheesecake. Brian and Nele were there too. Mark and Shaun went to bed (they catch the site bus early) and the rest of us played speed scrabble after dinner.
Tonight Mark and I are going to dinner with our friends David and Joni to the Sandpiper Restaurant. They are going to have a tough job to trying to cook a meal as good as my daughters Nancy and Amber did. Joni and I share the same birthday and we are a lot alike.
But my actual birthday day started at midnight when I went to the storage room to look for some easter stuff and found water on the floor. So I spent the next couple hours taking care of that. I beleve the rain gutter outside is clogged with leaves and we had a lot of rain yesterday. So when they tried to call me in early to work, the phone ring did not wake me.
I've received several happy birthday phone calls already, so thanks everyone for helping me through the tough DOUBLE FIVE.

My Florida Trip with the Bengal Dancers

2010-01-25T18:17:00.003-07:00

The Bengal Dancers Team flew to Florida on Thursday. My text from Katie was: hey, I’m on the plane to Orlando. It’s nonstop booo haha. (January 14, 9:44am.)
She knew that our plane tickets had 2 stops. That evening I drove from Twin Falls to Pocatello. I was meeting 3 other mom's to drive to Salt Lake City tonight. But, they weren't ready, and it was 11pm by the time we left Pocatello.

JANUARY 15, 2010, Friday
On January 15th I flew to Florida with 3 other mom's and a 16 month old girl. (the daughter of the youngest Bengal dancer). We left our hotel room at 6:30am to leave for the airport. (And we just went to bed at 2:30am). We spent a long exhausting day traveling.
text from Katie: I hope your traveling goes ok today! Let me know how it’s going! We’re gonna go practice and play! (that was thoughtful of Katie)
I was hurrying to the gate for our connecting flight in the Atlanta airport when I received a phone call. “Katie is OK, but she is in an ambulance headed to the hospital.” Her coach explained that she choked on some chicken and couldn’t swallow. As soon as we disconnected I read the text that arrived while my phone was off on my first flight: text from Katie: I can’t swallow I’m choking 2:50pm At first I thought, oh it’s just like Ben, he’s been through it, and then I got al upset. Katie was so far away, in the emergency room, and I was stuck in Atlanta waiting for a late plane. My son Ben talked to me and calmed me down.
text from Katie: Might as well call me Ben Jr., haha
3:24pm By the time my plane landed in Orlando, Katie’s coach Hilliary said the procedure was done, and she was just waiting for Katie to wake up. They put Katie out and removed the piece of chicken and stretched her throat from a 12 to a 15. (the normal size is 20) I tried to decide if I should take a taxi to the hospital. But I ended up traveling with our group to the hotel, and taking forever to get checked in to our room, and walking all over the place. I kept in contact with Coach Hilliary and Katie at the hospital. Afterwards the hospital did another x-ray of Katie, and then they wanted to see if she could swallow soft food. They finally arrived back at the hotel around 8pm and the team was practicing out in the parking lot. Katie attempted to join them, but she was still unsteady and her coach made her sit down. By the time I saw Katie we were finally in the cafeteria getting something to eat. What a relief to see my beautiful daughter Katie coming towards me. She ate 2 bowls of ice cream for dinner. This was a stressful day.
(I left my camera cord in Twin Falls,so I will post pictures later.)

My January vacation-Babysitting

2010-01-25T18:15:00.001-07:00

I traveled to Twin Falls late Sunday evening on January 10th.
pictures will be added later

New Year

2010-01-25T18:14:00.001-07:00

I traveled to Salt Lake City to spend New Years Eve at my mom's house.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-25T18:08:00.002-07:00

I'm really behind on my blog, so I'm trying to catch up.
Christmas Eve, I cooked for hours to make a nice Christmas Dinner. Amber and Shaun and the babies, Evan and Katie were supposed to be at our house for Christmas Eve for dinner and to play games. But, Amber and Shaun didn't come at 4:00pm when they said they would, and then they didn't have the twins. Just as we were finishing opening gifts, the twins got dropped off by Amber's mom. They spent about 15 minutes gobbling down dinner and took off for a church service. And that was our Christmas celebration with our kids. Pretty short. We were supposed to play games after their church service, but they called and said they wanted to tile their bathroom instead.

My first visit with my new grandson Tommy

2010-01-25T18:03:00.002-07:00

December 18, 2009
When I got back from Oklahoma a little after 1pm, I repacked my bags and left for Twin Falls about 2 hours later. Amber made dinner for Nancy and Victor, so I stopped to pick that up.

Yipee! My training is done.

2009-12-17T15:52:00.005-07:00

I am happy that my training at the NCED in Norman, OK is complete and my final exam is done!
Tomorrow I get to fly back to Idaho Falls.
Yippee!

A new Grandson!

2009-12-13T15:20:00.004-07:00

My 6th Grandbaby will be born today. Nancy and Victor went to the hospital at 1am this morning. I wish I wasn't so far away in Oklahoma. It seems like it is taking forever for Tommy to arrive.

Tommy was finally born at 3:38pm!!!!! He weighed 8 pounds 3 ounces.

Training in Oklahoma

2009-12-07T20:34:00.004-07:00

Well my training in Oklahoma started this morning in Oklahoma. I'm not sure where to post my pictures, on here or on facebook. But, it is starting to get late and I still need to study.

I posted the pictures on facebook.
December 6, 2009 Sunday
I’ve decided that I HATE flying anywhere. I had a nightmare trip back in January of this year, and today isn’t much better.
3:00am I awoke on the couch and began to get things done. I have felt so terrible the last 3 days with really bad stomach cramps. I organized Christmas gifts for wrapping. I worked on our budget. I washed clothes and took the Thanksgiving decorations downstairs.
I went to church and finished packing for my trip.
12:20pm I arrived at the airport, only to find that my airplane had not even left Denver. AAHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!! My flight ended up leaving over 2 hours late. And to make matters a ton worse, my cell phone died while we were parked on the runway waiting. And then when I arrived in Denver discovered my phone charger was in my checked luggage. Anyway I missed my connecting flight to Oklahoma City. Now I’m stuck in the Denver airport for over 2 hours.
11:15pm I walked into my hotel room.

December 7, 2009 Monday NCED BMEU Training
7:00am I have training every day for Bulk Mail Acceptance. Then we have homework to do at night. They have a nice fitness facility and I’ve been going there each evening. I got a fitness evaluation, I went to a nutrition class, a marriage relationship class. They are trying to help us improve ourselves in all areas of our lives. At the end of all the optional stuff they ask us to make goals.

December 11, 2009 Friday NCED Training
7:00 Training all day as usual.
4:00-6:00pm I went with Greg and his wife Tammy to see the local Casino run by the Chickasaw Indians. I went in one door and out the other, it was way too smoky. I walked around outside for a few minutes. Then we just drove around town, and then went to Wal Mart and I bought a few snacks and a book to read.

My Dad

2009-12-06T05:04:00.005-07:00

I worried all week about my dad. He went to the hospital again for 2 days. So on Friday as soon as I got off work I drove to Salt Lake to see dad. On Saturday I spent 3 hours cleaning and reorganizing his bedroom. Dad isn't allowed to go downstairs anymore. Which is where he has spent all of his time, reading and watching TV for many years. Dad is not happy about not being able to go downstairs anymore.
Here is Colter and Chloe decorating Grandma's Christmas trees.

On Saturday I left at 1:30pm to drive home and spent the evening taking care of the twins. They are such a joy to be with.

Thanksgiving in Washington

2009-11-28T10:55:00.003-07:00

November 25, 2009 Wednesday
I worked 10 hours today. They called me in early. And I had planned on finishing my packing before work. So when I got done working I had to rush home and finish packing.
4:50pm When I finally got on the freeway. I picked up Katie at her apartment and I drove to Nancy’s home in Twin Falls.
7:30pm Katie and I arrived at Nancy’s home. Nancy took Katie on a tour since it was the first time Katie had been there. They feed us dinner, and we played Catch phrase for a few minutes.
8:30pm Back on the road again. Katie drove.
3:45am We arrived at Jason’ house. We hadn’t expected to arrive so early, the garmin doesn’t account for time changes.
4:15am Back on the road again. Jason drove.
6:30am We arrived at Ben’s house. He was already up with Kiersten. Before long we were upstairs playing Ben’s new video game while Katie slept. And soon Ben and Jason kicked me out of the Wii game because I kept dying.
I helped Kara set the table for Thanksgiving. She did such a good job. Little children are so sweet and pure.
We had a good Thankgiving dinner early in the afternoon. We were all so hungry, we didn’t even wait for the potatoes to get done. We had some good ham, no turkey. I think that is the first time in my life I didn’t have turkey on Thanksgiving. Becky made homemade rolls and pies. We had corn on the cob (my favorite vegetable) and other good stuff. We had a nice day talking and playing games. I end up watching TV whenever they go back to playing their video game. I did miss seeing my mom, dad, and my sister Pam today. (and of course little Nicole)

November 27, 2009 Friday
Katie and I tried to get to Wal Mart at 5am. We arrived a few minutes late, and the store was jammed with people. We got a few things.
6:15am we arrived at Fred Meyer. Katie and I love to shop there the day after Thanksgiving. We’ve shopped there for years and they always have the same sales. It was 9am by the time we left. I spent way too much money, but I bought a lot of gifts. Meanwhile Jason was at the house alone. Ben had gone to work, Becky had taken the girls shopping. Then I slept for a long time. Becky brought the girls back and Jason and Katie watched them. Ben got off work early. We played a game and then Ben wrestled with his printer to get it to print our Zoo tickets for the Zoo lights. We finally arrived at 7:35pm. It was so neat, they had beautiful lights everyone, and animals made of lights. I loved it. They have a really nice acquarium and we spent a lot of time there. We stayed until it closed at 9am.

November 28, 2009 Saturday
After breakfast I watched a dull movie called Reach with Jason and Ben. It was a true story about
(I just copies this from my journal, I'll fix it later and add pictures)

A wild weekend

2009-11-16T09:32:00.010-07:00

I knew this weekend would be crazy, but it was tons of fun.
Friday
I went to dinner at Texas Roadhouse with Mark since it was the only time I would see him this weekend. Driving back home I got so sleepy I went to bed and slept for 8 hours (instead of driving to Twin Falls).
Saturday
I got up at 4:45am. Got ready to go and left just as the snow was starting in Idaho Falls. By the time I got to Blackfoot, the roads were sheets of ice and then most of my trip was at just 45 mph. I finally arrived at Nancy's home at 10am.
At 11:00am Nancy's baby shower began.

Tons of people arrived, there were 30 women and 4 kids!!! And 12 other ladies stopped by before and after the shower. Everyone thing was really nice, and Nancy has a beautiful home.
At 1:30pm I had to rush off, there were still a few guest at Nancy's when I left. I got to Pocatello to the Holt arena to see Katie perform at her last ISU football game.

It was a great game, but so long........I kept thinking I should leave, get on the road to my mom and dad's house, but the game was really good, and the ISU Bengals won in the last 35 seconds. I got lots of good pictures which I'll post later.
7:20pm back on the road again driving to my mom and dad's house. Mom and I played one game of May I and we went to bed.
Sunday
9:30am I went to breakfast with Mom and Dad.

Then Dad and I loaded all his pop can into the back of his truck. I helped Mom put away Halloween decoration and then brought up Thanksgiving decorations. I washed sheets and made all 5 beds downstairs for my family coming at Christmas time. And that was a lot of work, cause I was still trying to clean and organzie the area too.

Ta da! I worked hard to prepare these room for Christmas company.

Mom and I made time for just 3 hands of Kings in the Corner. I won for the first time ever!

Then Pam and her kids called me and wanted me to come by their house on my way home. They called me a bunch and really made me feel wanted. So at 8:00pm I arrived at Pam's house.

I gave them some pirate shirts I bought on sale and we played 2 games: Bones and the animal game.

It was 12:30am when I got home and then I had to take care of Sky. It was very cold outside. I hear with the wind chill last night it got down to minus 11.

Nancy's Baby Shower

2009-11-07T20:40:00.004-07:00

We had Nancy's Baby Shower today at my house. It turned out really nice.

High School friends: Destiny, Nancy, and Ericka.

I'm excited

2009-11-06T09:20:00.004-07:00

I'm excited for everyone to arrive this weekend. I'm hoping I get to see most of my relatives. I've been preparing all week for Nancy's baby shower tomorrow.

I let Nancy open the gifts from me on Friday night since we needed to set them out for the Price is Right game.

Our daughter Amber spent hours making the best diaper cake ever.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-01T10:33:00.003-07:00

Well, I started out the day with a sore throat) (still. So I didn't go to a Cedar Badge meeting in Pocatello that I was planning on going to. Not feeling good sure did put a damper on my week.
Trick or Treaters started coming at 5:45 while it was still light. It was beautiful weather for Trick or Treating, 53 degrees and no wind.
Katie called me at 6:45pm and said that she and Jake were driving up to Idaho Falls. Katie requested the traditonal Halloween food. So I ran to the store and made hot apple cider and sloppy joes. We played Uno Spin all evening.
We had a lot of Trick or Treaters this year, 153. I think it was because of the nice weather. I had a nice Halloween because Katie came home to visit. Kids, and their excitment is what makes Halloween fun. I miss the days when my kids were at home. (I will find an old picture later)

A mouse in the house

2009-11-01T10:30:00.003-07:00

We have a mouse in our bedroom!
I was looking for the stepic stick to treat the 4 cold sores on my lips when I discovered that the top drawer beside my bed had mouse turds in it…eeeww……!!!!!!
So today (Saturday) Mark was looking in his dresser drawer that sits across the room from our bed for some papers and discovered mouse turds…….eweeeee………He pulled the drawer out to clean it out and all of a sudden he yells “the mouse is in the drawer” I rushed into the bedroom, Mark is kneeling on the floor in front of his drawer and he says “hand me a shoe quick” I just looked at him because we keep all our shoes downstairs in the locker room. The in-wall vacuum hose was laying on the floor (because I had vacuumed out my drawer by my bed that I had found mouse turds in) and Mark says “Hand me the vacuum, I’ll vacuum him up.” I protested as I handed him the hose because I’m picturing this mouse traveling through the tubing in the walls to the canister in the garage and the mouse getting stuck.
Needless to say, as Mark lifted the book and mouse ran by him to the other side of the room super, super quick. I thought it was so funny that Mark thought he could actually vacuum up a mouse. Ha, Ha

A few minutes later Evan called and Mark said “I have a mouse in the house”

Sick Puppy

2009-11-01T10:19:00.006-07:00

Not really, my puppy is fine in his old age. But I was sick. On Monday I went to the eye doctor. I have a severe case of dry eye with an open sore on my right eye. I have 3 different eye drops to use. My eye is raally painful, waters alot and is super sensitive to light. Then on Wednesday I had a fever of 102. Thursday the sore throat hit me and didn't totally disappear until Sunday. I had to leave church this morning because my eye and nose were running so bad. I wish my eye would hurry and heal up. I see the eye doctor again on Tuesday.

A weekend tirp

2009-10-26T16:53:00.005-06:00

I went to Twin Falls last weekend. Nancy and I worked on stuff for the Baby Shower on the 7th. I had a nice weekend. I took some pictures of the baby's room which I'll post later. (I've misplaced my camera charger)

Jason's Fall hike

2009-10-20T22:43:00.009-06:00

Jason went on a hike today and took some nice pictures with just his camera phone. His hike started about 2 and a half miles from his new place to above the zoo on the Wildwood Trail. The longest trail within city limits in the nation.

My new work schedule

2009-10-20T22:41:00.004-06:00

I am so thrilled to have a new job at the Post Office. I know I can keep working longer by being able to sleep at night. I am the BMEU clerk and my hours are Monday thru Friday 7am to 3:30pm. I am so happy about it.

This picture was taken by camera phone on October 17, 2009

12 years ago

2009-10-11T16:39:00.007-06:00

12 years ago Mark and I got married. Early this morning he gave me a nice anniversary card. Then I dropped him off at the airpost at 6am so he could fly to Florida for training for his work.

Yesterday was a really busy and fun day at my house. I worked at the Post Office from 12:30am to 8:30am. Then I ran by Sam's Club on my way home. We went to a fun baby shower at Vickie's home. I LOVED seeing old family friends. Then I went shopping at Kohl's with my girls, Nancy and Katie. It is so fun to be with them both. We took Nancy home and then Katie and I went to see the new Fame movie. I remembered liking the old Fame movie better. When we got home we started to work on our glitter pumpkins. But I was so exhausted I took a nap on the couch. Then Amber and the twins came over. Katie's Jake was there too, we had a full house. I had a great day, I love having my kids around me.

The night before, Friday, Nancy and Victor had arrived and awoke me from my short nap of 2 and a half hours. Nancy and I went shopping for hours. I loved it, it is so much more fun to go shopping with your adult daughter than by yourself.

My day off

2009-10-08T12:02:00.003-06:00

I feel alive today, I love getting to sleep through the night. My friend Nele from The Netherlands sent me these pictures.

Nele gave me this cute frog for my garden!

This is at Big Jud's.

Jungle Pack Meeting

2009-10-07T21:26:00.002-06:00

Our monthly Pack meeting was tonight. We had a fun Jungle Book theme. The decorations were fun, and the treats were fun. I'll post some fun pictures later.

Dance or Cheer?

2009-10-04T12:22:00.007-06:00

I had a fun afternoon yesterday. Amber and I drove to Pocatello to watch the ISU homecoming football game. Katie's dance group stood behind the goal and cheered the entire game. It was like a 3 hour aroebics class!

The Bengal dancers performed with the cheerleaders during halftime.

After the game we went to dinner at Ruby Tuesday with Jake and Katie.

I've misplaced my camera, these were taken with my cell phone. I got home at 9pm and since I had only slept 2 hours in the last 24 hours, I fell into bed and slept for 12 hours.

21 More Days

2009-10-01T12:33:00.004-06:00

Only 21 more times that I have to drag myself to work at midnight. Only 21 more times do I have to stay up through the night working on my feet.
YAHOO, I can hardly wait to have a good, normal, night's sleep every night.

Today is my day off, and I spent time helping to take care of the twins.

Sam on Thursday in his warm monkey costume.

Will on Friday at my house.

My baby turned 20 today

2009-09-29T21:51:00.007-06:00

I had a fun day with Katie today. It was her 20th Birthday. It is hard to see the baby of your family turn 20 years old. Time goes by so quickly, and I don't feel as old as I am.

I took Katie to breakfast at Elmer's in Pocatello. It is almost as good as Smitty's.

Miranda made the cutest cupcakes for Katie.

Katie has decorated her bedroom cute.

Baby time

2009-09-26T06:34:00.006-06:00

The last two Thursdays I've had the great joy of helping to take care of Sam and Will. The babies are so sweet and it is such a challenge to care for two babies at the same time. This Thursday I was at Amber's house for 10 hours, and the Thursday before it was 5 hours. I will post pictures later.

Is this living?

2009-09-21T16:34:00.002-06:00

It seems like I never get to do anything fun anymore. My days off are split, Thursday and Sunday, so I rarely get to go anywhere. Last weekend was as usual, Mark had 3 days off and runs off to play. I worked Saturday morning. Then I attempted to have a Mary Kay party, but no one came. I went over to my friend's house for dinner (the other Mary Kay dealer is Patty, my scuba friend), our Mary Kay manager is her sister. Anyway, Patty's husband was going to build a shed, but now it is huge and he calls it his "Man Cave"

Quick trip

2009-09-13T07:15:00.004-06:00

I was able to make a quick trip to see my mom and dad in Salt Lake City on my one day off. I worked from 10pm Friday to 6am Saturday morning. I was glad I came to see them. I've been worried about my dad since his hospital stay last month. I rode with a co-worker and his son, they dropped me off at Denny's on 45th South and my sister Pam came to pick me up. We ate breakfast and then went to garage sales on the way to Mom and Dad's house. We had the best dinner, mom has found a chinese restaurant that delivers.

My mom the Happy Winner.

We played lots of games on Saturday. My mom had the best hand ever!!!

My grandson Samuel is in the hospital

2009-09-10T18:29:00.000-06:00

Samuel Ivan Birch is in the hospital. On Tuesday at 4:45pm I got a text from Amber saying they were checking Sam into the hospital because he is not gaining weight. She asked me to go to their house and help Great Grandma Van Sickle to care for William. By 8:33pm that evening they had diagnosed Sam with hyperthyroid. Amber has hyperthyroid and was taking a medicine during pregnancy. Sam will have to take the drug now and slowly go off it in the next 12 weeks. He has a fast heartbeat and high blood pressure, so he has to take a medicine for that. He heart is also enlarged and he has a heart murmer. They think this is all a result of the hyperthroid problem, so it should clear up.

So Tuesday night I slept an hour and a half and went to work from Amber's house. She lives closer to the Post Office, so that was nice. I worked 10 hours, and then I had my first chiropractor appointment. I didn't get back to Amber's house until almost 12:30pm. I slept for 3 and a half hours and then went to my union meeting, and then right back to Amber's house. Sweet little William, who weighs a pound more since birth, fell asleep on my chest while I was lying on the couch about 9pm. Amber came home at 10:45pm, but I just let Will sleep, he was sleeping so good. He didn't wake up until 3am. I changed him, or tried to, he wet on 2 diapers, his blanket, his clothes, and woke up Amber so I let her take over. So I left, picked up hamburgers for my co-workers, and went shopping at Wal Mart. I got home at 5am this morning.

But, back to the babies; They tested William on Wednesday for hyperthyroid, but he doesn't have it and is doing fine. Sam has already inproved and has gained an ounce. They say he will be in the hospital about 2 more days. Shaun had vacation scheduled this week, and it's a good thing, a parent has to stay with Sam in the hospital.

A Fun Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-08T09:40:00.017-06:00

We went camping at Tony's Grove Campground in Utah above Logan. We had a great time.
Friday: I got off work at 8:30am. Mark and I had planned on leaving at 9am, but at noon, Mark, Betty (Mark's mother) and I finally left the house with the trailer in tow. We stopped briefly at Pam's house in Smithfield to get water for the trailer and quickly left since it was in the 90's. Poor old Sky on on the shelf by the back window of the truck and sitting at a stop light in Logan the temperature was 99 degrees. We were happy to get out of the heat. We were just settling into our campsite at Tony's Grove when Jake and Katie arrived.
Pam and Danny arrived late, and here they are eating their campfire foil dinners.

We played lots and lots of games on Saturday.

Trevor and Jake playing different games

noon on Saturday. The group site had a nice long table that we enjoyed.
Time for more games. Mark's mother Betty loves to play games too.

Danny and his best friend.

Sweet 5 year old Chloe

We had delicious Dutch Oven Meatloaf for dinner on Saturday.

My sweet old dog Sky is 9 years old now and has a hard time moving around.

Exhausted Colter. We had lots of campfires since both Mark and Danny brought firewood.

Sunday Breakfast: We tried out egg cooked in an orange and Trevor cooked bacon for us over the campfire. He is a good boy scout!
.....And then My camera died.....

Shaun's brother's wedding

2009-08-22T15:18:00.007-06:00

Shaun's brother, Boyd got married this morning at 11am.

I watched the twins for 2 and half hours in the nursery so Shaun and Amber could enjoy themselves at the wedding.

Victor did his 2nd Triathalon

2009-08-21T03:38:00.010-06:00

Nancy and Victor came to stay with us last weekend. On Saturday he did his 2nd Triathalon in Rexburg. By the time I got off work, picked up Betty at my home, and got to Rexburg, he was finished.

Rexburg city had beautiful big petunia pots.

Then we headed for the cabin in Island Park. We had lunch at Lakeside.

The twins had a photo shoot

2009-08-20T03:15:00.005-06:00

On Tuesday, August 18, 2009 We had Amber and Shaun over for dinner.

Mark took lots of pictures. The boys are 5 days old.

The new Birch Family

This is Great Grand Betty Van Sickle holding one of the boys on August 17th.

The twins were born today!

2009-08-13T22:43:00.005-06:00

William weighed 6 lb. 2 oz. and was 19 3/4 inches long
Samuel weighed 6 lb. 3 oz. and was 19 1/2 inches long

We got to hold the babies tonight at 9pm. They are very cute!

Empty Nest

2009-08-13T15:25:00.005-06:00

It is so sad when your children leave home. The house becomes so quiet and boring. Katie moved to her apartment in Pocatello yesterday morning.

I miss her already.
It's not that I'm not busy, it's just that all of your kids always are a special part of you.
After sleeping yesterday, Mark and I went to the Summber Potluck Picnic at Sealander Park for the Alpine Club. Then Amber came over and we waited for Grandma Betty Van Sickle to arrive.

(P.S. These pictures aren't the greatest because they were taken with phones)

July 4th Week Vacation

2009-08-13T05:39:00.006-06:00

I wanted to add some of my July 4th pictures, and discovered I'd never written anything about my week. I try to write something quickly and then I add pictures later when I have time.

I watched the Fireworks in Idaho Falls with Ben's family (Ben, Becky, Kara, and Kiersten) and with Victor and Nancy down by the river.

I watched Kiersten nap while the others walked around the river.

Ben's family came to visit me.

Bear World

2009-08-07T18:17:00.005-06:00

I had a fun day off yesterday. Early in the morning I went to Bear World with Katie, Jill Gaumet from France, and two of her kids.

It was the first time Katie had been there. We had fun. Then I heard all about Katie's dance camp trip. She had a good trip. Then Katie and I went to lunch at Chili's with my post office co-worker Sandy. Then we had Amber and Shaun over for pizza and salad. Amber, Shaun, Katie and I played the game El Grande. I like that game. Amber won.
Amber tried a new way of cutting Mark's hair.

Then I had a short nap and headed back to working all night at the Post Office.

Still waiting for the twins

2009-07-30T10:22:00.007-06:00

Our daughter Amber should deliver her twin boys at any minute. We are so excited to be able to hold them.

Amber is more than ready to deliver two baby boys, they are a good size.

I took these photos last Sunday, I was trying to get a good picture of how huge Amber's tummy really is, she says she is doing fine.

This view is taken from upstairs at the railing above the family room. I was still trying to get a good picture of Amber being very pregnant.

Today is day off, I love being able to sleep when normal people do and I feel so much better!

The brace on Mark's foot is from an injury he got on our spring vacation while hiking. He just finally went to the foot doctor a couple of weeks ago.

Nancy's Summer Party

2009-07-12T18:36:00.006-06:00

NOT REALLY.....a secret was about to be revealed!

Nancy and Victor bought beautiful new patio furniture.

It is nicer patio furniture than we've ever had.

Mark and I drove to Twin Falls on June 6th after I had finished working at the Post Office (I start work at 12:30am)

We arrived early so I could help Nancy prepare for the big party.

I helped Nancy make these strawberry ladybugs. I was suppposed to ask "Why do they have pacifers in their mouths?" But, I didn't...

Brief visit with Nicole in June

2009-07-12T17:04:00.008-06:00

We got to see Nicole for an hour on June 7th!

My daughter Nancy playing with the girls Nicole and Chloe in my mom's racoon fountain.

We all played lawn games in the yard with Nicole.

And then Nicole played the piano and sang to us.

We loved being with Nicole, so is so sweet!

Pictures of my granddaughter Nicole

2009-07-12T16:50:00.005-06:00

Well, not exactly new, but I just downloaded them from my camera.

These pictures were taken March 28th at my mother's home in Salt Lake City.

I loved being able to see Jason and Nicole when I went to Salt Lake City.

I miss getting to spend time with them in Salt Lake City.

Weekend at home

2009-07-11T22:39:00.003-06:00

After working 10 hours and getting off work at 10:30am on Saturday, I did a few errands. The siding repair on our home began yesterday, and they were finishing up the new siding installation on the south side of our home today. Mark and I started out to ride out bikes to the Edwards Theatre on the other side of town. However, we ran out of time, and my friend Patty came and picked me up to go to the movie "The Proposal". We chained up my bike. Mark rode his bike back the 5 miles to our house, and then went to pick up my bike. We tried to get him to go to the movie with us, but he didn't want to. Patty and I enjoyed the movie. Then we went to dinner at the Sizzler with Keith and Patty Christensen (our scuba friends). And the last thing we did is go and buy our movie tickets for the opening day of the new Harry Potter movie. It was amazing today that I didn't nod off, I've been up for almost 24 hours now.

Ben's family visit, vacation at cabin, July 4th

2009-07-06T22:23:00.002-06:00

Life has been very busy! Lot's going on in my life. I had a great week getting to spend time with my son Ben, Becky, their darling girls Kara and Kiersten, my daughter Nancy and her husband Victor, and my sister Pam and her family.

My daughter's coming to visit this weekend

2009-06-26T18:27:00.003-06:00

I am excited to have my daughter,Nancy (expectant mother), and her husband come and visit this weekend. They should be here soon. It's a good thing there is a bright spot in my life cause I got a bid to repair our house siding, and it $2,700!!! And my sweet dog Sky had a bad ear infection and it cost me a ton at the vet today!

Oh, I forgot, to post the exciting news: On June 6th I got the exciting news that my daughter Nancy is pregnant! I am so, so happy for them. They have wanted a baby for years. She is due on December 7, 2009.

Rafting on the Salmon River

2009-05-27T12:40:00.005-06:00

We had beautiful weather for the Memorial Day weekend (except for Sunday). The weekend was a little shorter than usual for me because I had to work Saturday morning. I worked 10 hours and then Katie and I took off for Salmon. We arrived at the campground just as the afternoon trip was ready to lauch. They were kind enough to wait while we changed into our wet suits.

Katie and I are really still in the raft in this huge wave.

We came very close to flipping the raft, but due to the superior captain (Vicky) and the fantastic rudder man (Katie) we made it through O.K. without losing anyone out of the raft! Yeah! It was tons of fun!

Saying Goodbye

2009-05-17T13:37:00.002-06:00

Nicole loved her princess bedroom at her Dad's house. She was always happy there.

It is so sad that Jason cannot have Nicole come to his cute little house anymore. He is going to start packing up her darling little bedroom. Pam and I enjoyed putting the finishing touches on the walls to make it the best Princess room fit for our little Princess Nicole. It is so sad she will never be there again. I hope the pictures we have will help her remember it someday. Jason's heartbreak is so unneeded, how cruel to push away a devoted, loving father.

A Sad Week

2009-05-14T17:26:00.009-06:00

My son, Jason, has been having a custody battle for over a year. The custody evaluator has believed his ex-wife's lies, and thinks Jason is lying. Jason is getting restricted visitation instead of more time with his precious daughter. He feels he has no choice but to leave. These two pictures were taken last Saturday when we were all at my mom's house in Salt Lake City.

And then on Tuesday we had high wind warnings, and gusts up to 62 mph. The siding was blown off the south side of our home.

I keep thinking about sweet, beautiful Nicole. I didn't realize on Easter that it would be the last Easter we would all be together.

A Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T18:27:00.014-06:00

On Saturday Nancy and Victor worked hard at weeding the front flower beds and planting flowers for my mother in SLC for Mother's Day. (With a little help from Chloe and I)

I've had a nice day. I woke up at 1:15am as most of the people at my mom's house went to bed. My sister Pam and my daughter Katie stayed up and talked with me until 4am. I got back up about 9am. At 10:50am I went to church with Nancy and Victor and enjoyed the special Mother's Day Program. Nancy and Katie gave me a nice yellow purse, and Ben and Becky sent me a gift card for Wal Mart. This afternoon I played the game May I with my mom and my 3 children: Nancy, Katie, and Jason. I made Tacos for dinner because my mom said it is her favorite meal. I tried to get my kids together to go on a short hike, but that didn't work. The weather was really beautiful today in Salt Lake City. I only had one day off, today, so it was a quick trip. I was lucky to have Katie with me and she drove. I got home at 11:30pm and had to leave for work 45 minutes later.

My daughters Katie and Nancy gave me a nice purse for Mother's Day. (I forgot to get a picture of the purse)

Goblin Valley

2009-04-09T16:40:00.005-06:00

During our spring vacation we camped at the Goblin Valley State Park. They have a nice campground. And we really enjoyed exploring the Valley of the Goblins.

A Happy Birthday Day!

2009-04-01T09:34:00.007-06:00

I had a wonderful day.
I worked 10 hours at the Post Office. Then I went to Fred Meyer to buy the Phalaenopsis Orchid plant that I've been wanting for years. And I was really happy to find it on sale, it is beautiful.

Then my friend Patty (scuba girl) took me to lunch at Red Robin. They gave me a yellow balloon and huge hot fudge sunday. Then we went to a movie, "Duplicity". We both thought it was dumb.

When I got home there was a teddy bear with balloons waiting for me from Ben's family. Then Mark and I went to dinner with me friend Joni, her husband David, Brian Boer (our Holland roommate), Amber & Shaun, and Evan at Jakers. Mark gave me a new camelback bladder, Amber and Shaun gave me pink earrings with a matching necklance, Brian Boer gave me flowers with a birthday balloon, and Joni gave me a new water bottle for work.

I finally got a chance to sleep for 2 hours before going back to work. (at 12:30am Wednesday morning) I had a very nice and happy day. Thank you everyone for all your well wishes and phone calls, and gifts.

Little Wild Horse Canyon and Bell Canyon, Utah

2009-03-30T13:34:00.005-06:00

I can't get my pictures to upload. I am SO FRUSTRATED!
The instructions say 8 mega pixels is the maximum size, and my camera is 10 mega pixels. How do I do it?

Hey, I did it. It took me over an hour, and this isn't exactly what I had planned, but I hope you can see the pictures from one of our vacation days.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-18T16:54:00.004-06:00

For the first time I cooked a traditional St. Patrick's Day dinner. We got the receipes in Relief Society (I didn't get up when my alarm went off and missed the Irish Soda Bread demonstration). So here's what I made:
Corned Beef Brisket with carrots, red potatoes, and green cabbage.
Green Irish Soda Bread.
It turned out good. And Mark said it was better than what he had at the cafeteria at work. (I guess that is a compliment.)

Tonight I'm cooking my mom's traditional tacos that she always made for us, and a articoke for Launjing Guo. She is from China and has never eaten an articoke before. Launjing is moving out on Friday.

Yesterday, I was looking on the internet trying to help my son Jason find a job. As I read the National Guard site, I thought, hey I would like to do that. So I filled out the form. Have you started laughing yet? I talked to a truck driver this morning at work and he said they don't take anyone over 35 years old. The recruiter just called me, I laughed with him. Oh well. I desperately want to retire from the Post Office in a year, and I'm thinking I'll need to do some part time work.

We have Relief Society tonight and the theme is "Saving on your Budget", mmmm. Meanwhile my lucky sister in Logan is going to a concert I wish I was going to: The Nashville Tribute Band. We heard them play at BYU Provo. I enjoy listening to them.

I went to Physical Therapy today again. I'm so tired of going, and I'm so tired of having pain in my shoulder. The doctor said it would be a one year recovery, I just didn't believe him.

On March 10, 2009 I was diagnosed with high blood pressure. I started taking some herbs on March 3rd when I suspected it, and a regular prescription on March 10th. I'm glad my daughter Amber is in the nursing program at ISU and brought it to my attention. Finally today, my blood pressure is dropping, it was 130/68. yeah! I wonder if my high blodd pressure is an effect of my surgery and pain, or my night work schedule.

Have a great day!