Monday, August 16, 2010
WOOLF FAMILY REUNION
Joseph and Kathleen's Progenitors
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Rexburg, Idaho
In July 2009 we all gathered at Dixie's home and made Mother's homemade doughnuts. We had such a grand time together, laughing, reminiscing, teasing and recalling our own personal memories with Mother and Daddy. Not even two weeks later we were told that Valerie was very ill and we realized how precious that past week-end had been for us.
So last December as we gathered for Valerie's funeral, we decided that now it was even more important for us to make the effort of getting together and sharing the bonds that Mother and Daddy worked so hard to ingrain in each of us. We decided that we would have a family reunion in the summer of 2010. The planning began immediately and for the next 8 months we assigned, reassigned, changed plans, set dates, all the while trying to determine how we could make this a memorable event for our families.
Dixie reserved her ward building and the adjoining park for Saturday, August 7, 2010. Dixie made a flyer with the necessary information and sent it to each sister and we were then responsible to inform our own children with the details.
Those in attendance:
Joeleen and Gene with Daniel and Karen, Stephen, Allyson and Maya.
Diane and Howard with Jason and Tabitha and family.
Linda with Rachel, Tom and Stacy and family, Matt and Amy and family, Katie and family, Christy, James and Debbie and family.
Dixie and Craig with Mindy, Arnold and Reese.
Sylvia and Bill
None of Valerie's family was able to attend.
(Our goal is to have even more attend in 2 years when we do this again.)
We began putting things together at about 11 A.M. with lunch planned for 1 P.M.
Dixie had ordered chicken, Craig made homemade root beer, everyone joined in making the doughnuts (at the park), salads, rolls, chips, fruit, vegetable trays, and desserts were brought from each family.
A quilt was tied (in honor of Mother) for Humanitarian needs but at the reunion Dixie announced that Brady and Erica are expecting a new baby and we decided that the baby quilt should go to them. We agreed that that would make Mother happy.
Bill and Sylvia had a video machine going with the DVD of our old home videos going.
Linda and Tabitha had prepared games and activities for everyone to participate in.
--Fishing Pond (grandpa would be proud)
--”Name That Flower” Contest
--”Name the Ancestor”
--Water balloon games
--Relays
These games and contests were all accompanied with lots of fun prizes, donated from the sisters.
We closed our days activities with a giant balloon release honoring Valerie. Everyone wrote notes, we released the balloons and everyone yelled “We love you Valerie!!!” It was a perfect ending to our day together. We truly had much to celebrate.
On our way back to Idaho Falls we stopped at the Ucon cemetery. Sylvia brought a couple of plants that she put on the graves. Sylvia has had the headstone engraved with Valerie's birth and death date plus 3 little stars and this was the first time some of us had seen that.
Thanks to everyone who joined us and made this a day to remember. This kind of event was so important to Mother and we could feel her influence as we try to pass on her passion for heritage.
We are proud of everyone and for those who took the time to join us, we thank you. We love you all.
Joseph and Kathleen's Progenitors
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Rexburg, Idaho
In July 2009 we all gathered at Dixie's home and made Mother's homemade doughnuts. We had such a grand time together, laughing, reminiscing, teasing and recalling our own personal memories with Mother and Daddy. Not even two weeks later we were told that Valerie was very ill and we realized how precious that past week-end had been for us.
So last December as we gathered for Valerie's funeral, we decided that now it was even more important for us to make the effort of getting together and sharing the bonds that Mother and Daddy worked so hard to ingrain in each of us. We decided that we would have a family reunion in the summer of 2010. The planning began immediately and for the next 8 months we assigned, reassigned, changed plans, set dates, all the while trying to determine how we could make this a memorable event for our families.
Dixie reserved her ward building and the adjoining park for Saturday, August 7, 2010. Dixie made a flyer with the necessary information and sent it to each sister and we were then responsible to inform our own children with the details.
Those in attendance:
Joeleen and Gene with Daniel and Karen, Stephen, Allyson and Maya.
Diane and Howard with Jason and Tabitha and family.
Linda with Rachel, Tom and Stacy and family, Matt and Amy and family, Katie and family, Christy, James and Debbie and family.
Dixie and Craig with Mindy, Arnold and Reese.
Sylvia and Bill
None of Valerie's family was able to attend.
(Our goal is to have even more attend in 2 years when we do this again.)
We began putting things together at about 11 A.M. with lunch planned for 1 P.M.
Dixie had ordered chicken, Craig made homemade root beer, everyone joined in making the doughnuts (at the park), salads, rolls, chips, fruit, vegetable trays, and desserts were brought from each family.
A quilt was tied (in honor of Mother) for Humanitarian needs but at the reunion Dixie announced that Brady and Erica are expecting a new baby and we decided that the baby quilt should go to them. We agreed that that would make Mother happy.
Bill and Sylvia had a video machine going with the DVD of our old home videos going.
Linda and Tabitha had prepared games and activities for everyone to participate in.
--Fishing Pond (grandpa would be proud)
--”Name That Flower” Contest
--”Name the Ancestor”
--Water balloon games
--Relays
These games and contests were all accompanied with lots of fun prizes, donated from the sisters.
We closed our days activities with a giant balloon release honoring Valerie. Everyone wrote notes, we released the balloons and everyone yelled “We love you Valerie!!!” It was a perfect ending to our day together. We truly had much to celebrate.
On our way back to Idaho Falls we stopped at the Ucon cemetery. Sylvia brought a couple of plants that she put on the graves. Sylvia has had the headstone engraved with Valerie's birth and death date plus 3 little stars and this was the first time some of us had seen that.
Thanks to everyone who joined us and made this a day to remember. This kind of event was so important to Mother and we could feel her influence as we try to pass on her passion for heritage.
We are proud of everyone and for those who took the time to join us, we thank you. We love you all.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Still More
Just thought I would mention that I don't think anyone reads this blog. I guess it is just for me. I'm not sure why I post (every now and then) on it. I keep the same thing in my jounal. Some of my thoughts are private and yet I put them on here. Maybe it's because I know no one reads it. Well, at least you can see how darling my grandchildren are. Love them to death.
A Big Move Update
July 2, 2010
I don’t know what happens to me. I am pretty good at writing for awhile and then I taper off. Such has been my last stint, I really tapered off. Well, here it goes again, a catch up.
First, Brady is now working as a department manager at JAX. They had to move to Loveland Colorado. They are in a cute little house that fits them. I can’t wait to see it.
Brady and family seem content and happy. He can ride his bike to work in 3 minutes and earns a dollar each day he rides. Let’s hope they can make ends meet on such a small budget. I also want to go on the record that Kenndi looks like Brady. What a sweetie she is. She loves the sand box and the grass and playing.
Craig has been offered a buy out/early retirement from the Church. He can retire in December with 9 months pay and full insurance premium payments. I believe he will take it. I have believed from the very beginning that he would take it. I can tell by the way he answers his customers (members) calls and the way he complains that he is ready to leave it all behind. Me, on the other hand, I think I will work till 62 unless the school offers a buy out. (Just for the record, I don’t think that will ever happen.) Like always, I worry about our finances and the money that is spent on hunting and fishing. We are at a point in our life where we pretty much buy and do what we want. I think that will change for me but I’m not sure about Craig. We have already met once with Chuck and will have another meeting with him next week to determine how our finances are. Let me just state, that I felt from the beginning that he will jump on the retirement. He feels he is to be the sacrificial lamb trying out the new program. FM’s will have twice the area with no custodians. The decision has to be to SLC by July 31.
Linda and her family invited us last Sunday to Idaho Falls to attend Scott and Jodi’s baby Max’s blessing. Afterwards, they did a picnic at the pavillion. It was a fun day and good to visit with everyone. Matt’s kids are sure growing up. They are very nice looking children. Scott and Jodi are very proud parents, as so they should be. Max looks just like Scott to me and has his grandpa’s (Jodi’s dad) cheeks. It was good to visit with them a little more as we will be staying with them in Hawaii for a couple of nights.
I continue to work on my devotional. I give it on August 17. I am very nervous because I don’t speak like I use to. My words don’t flow and get all jumbled. I worry so much about making sure things flow together and people understand what point I am trying to make. I am scared to have someone read it because the lack of comment tells me they don’t know what to say. I let Lexie read it but she hasn’t said much which actually says a lot. It doesn’t matter much what I think because I am locked into it.
Bonnie and Larry continue to struggle. Bonnie had her second surgery for tumors on her stomach. Larry had another CT scan and his lungs are full of cancer again. His family was told it is a matter of time. Gay had surgery this week for her condition. They had to go to San Diego for the surgery. We haven’t heard how she is doing. Craig’s family reunion is next week in Moab. We have been told not many are coming. All of the Springers’, only Jed from Dennis’ family, no Day’s, maybe MoNene and a few Denision’s. Kirtly goes to so much work and he loves the reunions but this time, I think they should have punted. I told Craig originally, that I thought they should have just a sibling reunion due to Larry and Bonnie’s health. They are not up to being at the cabin for more than a day. Bonnie isn’t even home from Grand Junction and surgery so who knows what will happen. We have rented a cabin on the river because we don’t have a camper to stay in. I don’t want to sleep in tents because of the heat and my back. I really don’t think at age 60 that I should have to sleep on the ground.
I don’t know what happens to me. I am pretty good at writing for awhile and then I taper off. Such has been my last stint, I really tapered off. Well, here it goes again, a catch up.
First, Brady is now working as a department manager at JAX. They had to move to Loveland Colorado. They are in a cute little house that fits them. I can’t wait to see it.
Brady and family seem content and happy. He can ride his bike to work in 3 minutes and earns a dollar each day he rides. Let’s hope they can make ends meet on such a small budget. I also want to go on the record that Kenndi looks like Brady. What a sweetie she is. She loves the sand box and the grass and playing.
Craig has been offered a buy out/early retirement from the Church. He can retire in December with 9 months pay and full insurance premium payments. I believe he will take it. I have believed from the very beginning that he would take it. I can tell by the way he answers his customers (members) calls and the way he complains that he is ready to leave it all behind. Me, on the other hand, I think I will work till 62 unless the school offers a buy out. (Just for the record, I don’t think that will ever happen.) Like always, I worry about our finances and the money that is spent on hunting and fishing. We are at a point in our life where we pretty much buy and do what we want. I think that will change for me but I’m not sure about Craig. We have already met once with Chuck and will have another meeting with him next week to determine how our finances are. Let me just state, that I felt from the beginning that he will jump on the retirement. He feels he is to be the sacrificial lamb trying out the new program. FM’s will have twice the area with no custodians. The decision has to be to SLC by July 31.
Linda and her family invited us last Sunday to Idaho Falls to attend Scott and Jodi’s baby Max’s blessing. Afterwards, they did a picnic at the pavillion. It was a fun day and good to visit with everyone. Matt’s kids are sure growing up. They are very nice looking children. Scott and Jodi are very proud parents, as so they should be. Max looks just like Scott to me and has his grandpa’s (Jodi’s dad) cheeks. It was good to visit with them a little more as we will be staying with them in Hawaii for a couple of nights.
I continue to work on my devotional. I give it on August 17. I am very nervous because I don’t speak like I use to. My words don’t flow and get all jumbled. I worry so much about making sure things flow together and people understand what point I am trying to make. I am scared to have someone read it because the lack of comment tells me they don’t know what to say. I let Lexie read it but she hasn’t said much which actually says a lot. It doesn’t matter much what I think because I am locked into it.
Bonnie and Larry continue to struggle. Bonnie had her second surgery for tumors on her stomach. Larry had another CT scan and his lungs are full of cancer again. His family was told it is a matter of time. Gay had surgery this week for her condition. They had to go to San Diego for the surgery. We haven’t heard how she is doing. Craig’s family reunion is next week in Moab. We have been told not many are coming. All of the Springers’, only Jed from Dennis’ family, no Day’s, maybe MoNene and a few Denision’s. Kirtly goes to so much work and he loves the reunions but this time, I think they should have punted. I told Craig originally, that I thought they should have just a sibling reunion due to Larry and Bonnie’s health. They are not up to being at the cabin for more than a day. Bonnie isn’t even home from Grand Junction and surgery so who knows what will happen. We have rented a cabin on the river because we don’t have a camper to stay in. I don’t want to sleep in tents because of the heat and my back. I really don’t think at age 60 that I should have to sleep on the ground.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Humbling Experience to be Shared
I would like to share the following story by President and Sister Puzey. I served with them at BYU-Idaho campus stake. Truly humbling!
A page from my journal… 25 May 2010
What does it mean to be faithful or to endure to the end? That question has been on my mind recently as I have been serving here in the Philippines. Back home I felt content knowing that I had a current temple recommend and had served where called. I was mostly certain that having served three times as scout master and had been on what seemed a hundred campouts and taught that group of 14 year old wild youth in Sunday school that I had given my all. I had always tried to get my home teaching done before the middle of the month and I stopped fishing on Sunday, now that is sacrifice. I had thought that would rank me among the faithful saints of God. After being with the Saints here in the Philippines I have been thinking lately that it might require more of me.
On Sunday I attended the little branch in Maria Aurora. The meeting house is on the second story of the corner feed store just across from the town market. It is a busy, noisy place but the saints were so happy to move from the crowded front porch of one of the member’s homes months before. After making our way around the buildings crowded side alley we make the climb to the upper level. I make a dash to the CR (comfort room) after a long road trip. The bathroom is about four foot square with a small wall sink without faucets, wall tap, a small toilet bowl without a seat or a tank and a bucket of water to wash with and flush the toilet with. The floor is covered with water because members come early to wash before the meeting.
The meeting room holds about 75 people. It is a hot summer day in the mid 90’s as sweat is already beginning to run down my back. With all the windows open, the noise from the street and the heat makes me gasp for air. As we enter, members jump from the brown plastic chairs and greet us with eager smiles and hand shakes. The children take our hands and hold them to their foreheads as a sign of respect for their elders. We make our way to the front and the young branch president offers us a seat behind the simply built podium. As I look up from my seat about 40 beautiful brown eyed members are watching our every move. The crowd is mostly women and children with a few scattered priesthood brethren. Two young men sat ready to pass the sacrament while two older men were prepared to bless. The members were dressed in their very best which might be tee shirts and pants, a few dresses and white shirts. Shoes are mostly flip-flops.
Part of me wanted to whine about the difficulty of our assignment but as I looked out at those beautiful saints the thought made me ashamed. I thought of the beautiful chapel in Sugar City, the carpets and soft seats and comforting temperature. In my mind I could picture the seats full of well dressed members perfectly seated in rows. It was a quiet and reverent. Beautiful music was accompanied by a piano or organ. I can hardly remember what that was like. For a moment, I felt a bit torn between home and the mission field but I real peace comforted me.
Seated at the sacrament table next to me was Graciano Valdez, a 72 year old member who had joined the Church when I first arrived in the mission two years ago. He had lost his wife just a few months earlier. I knew he lived in a little run down house of about 12 foot square, made of used plywood with a tin roof. He walked about 2 miles to come to church each week with his worn Book of Mormon protected by a green plastic sack. He had an old pair of faded green military dress pants on that were rolled up at his ankles with the waist line puckered in piles under an old belt. His white shirt was bright white but was very large and I noticed that the shoulder seam was held together with blue thread, hand stitching. I felt a lump in my throat and a special closeness to my Savior as he knelt on the floor next to me and with his poor eye sight read the sacrament prayer.
After the meeting we greeted each other and reported on our resent health and happiness. He told me how thankful he was to be a member and how he loved the Gospel and the hope and peace that it brought to his life. He spoke tenderly of how happy he was that he and his wife had been sealed together forever in the temple just before her death. Brother Valdez then turned to me and said very solemnly that he had promised God that he would be faithful until he died. He then took my hand and told me again not to worry about him that he would be faithful until death and he would be with his wife again. I believed him and I know God was aware of his promise.
On my long travel home and until now I continue to ponder how faithful am I and what have I promised the Lord. I thought of my many blessings and if I could be faithful until death. I have renewed my to the Lord that I would be faithful so that I can be together again with those I love.
President Puzey
Pictures attached of the Chapel and Graciano Valdez
What does it mean to be faithful or to endure to the end? That question has been on my mind recently as I have been serving here in the Philippines. Back home I felt content knowing that I had a current temple recommend and had served where called. I was mostly certain that having served three times as scout master and had been on what seemed a hundred campouts and taught that group of 14 year old wild youth in Sunday school that I had given my all. I had always tried to get my home teaching done before the middle of the month and I stopped fishing on Sunday, now that is sacrifice. I had thought that would rank me among the faithful saints of God. After being with the Saints here in the Philippines I have been thinking lately that it might require more of me.
On Sunday I attended the little branch in Maria Aurora. The meeting house is on the second story of the corner feed store just across from the town market. It is a busy, noisy place but the saints were so happy to move from the crowded front porch of one of the member’s homes months before. After making our way around the buildings crowded side alley we make the climb to the upper level. I make a dash to the CR (comfort room) after a long road trip. The bathroom is about four foot square with a small wall sink without faucets, wall tap, a small toilet bowl without a seat or a tank and a bucket of water to wash with and flush the toilet with. The floor is covered with water because members come early to wash before the meeting.
The meeting room holds about 75 people. It is a hot summer day in the mid 90’s as sweat is already beginning to run down my back. With all the windows open, the noise from the street and the heat makes me gasp for air. As we enter, members jump from the brown plastic chairs and greet us with eager smiles and hand shakes. The children take our hands and hold them to their foreheads as a sign of respect for their elders. We make our way to the front and the young branch president offers us a seat behind the simply built podium. As I look up from my seat about 40 beautiful brown eyed members are watching our every move. The crowd is mostly women and children with a few scattered priesthood brethren. Two young men sat ready to pass the sacrament while two older men were prepared to bless. The members were dressed in their very best which might be tee shirts and pants, a few dresses and white shirts. Shoes are mostly flip-flops.
Part of me wanted to whine about the difficulty of our assignment but as I looked out at those beautiful saints the thought made me ashamed. I thought of the beautiful chapel in Sugar City, the carpets and soft seats and comforting temperature. In my mind I could picture the seats full of well dressed members perfectly seated in rows. It was a quiet and reverent. Beautiful music was accompanied by a piano or organ. I can hardly remember what that was like. For a moment, I felt a bit torn between home and the mission field but I real peace comforted me.
Seated at the sacrament table next to me was Graciano Valdez, a 72 year old member who had joined the Church when I first arrived in the mission two years ago. He had lost his wife just a few months earlier. I knew he lived in a little run down house of about 12 foot square, made of used plywood with a tin roof. He walked about 2 miles to come to church each week with his worn Book of Mormon protected by a green plastic sack. He had an old pair of faded green military dress pants on that were rolled up at his ankles with the waist line puckered in piles under an old belt. His white shirt was bright white but was very large and I noticed that the shoulder seam was held together with blue thread, hand stitching. I felt a lump in my throat and a special closeness to my Savior as he knelt on the floor next to me and with his poor eye sight read the sacrament prayer.
After the meeting we greeted each other and reported on our resent health and happiness. He told me how thankful he was to be a member and how he loved the Gospel and the hope and peace that it brought to his life. He spoke tenderly of how happy he was that he and his wife had been sealed together forever in the temple just before her death. Brother Valdez then turned to me and said very solemnly that he had promised God that he would be faithful until he died. He then took my hand and told me again not to worry about him that he would be faithful until death and he would be with his wife again. I believed him and I know God was aware of his promise.
On my long travel home and until now I continue to ponder how faithful am I and what have I promised the Lord. I thought of my many blessings and if I could be faithful until death. I have renewed my to the Lord that I would be faithful so that I can be together again with those I love.
President Puzey
Pictures attached of the Chapel and Graciano Valdez
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Don't forget my Reese
Just thought I would put a couple of pictures here because I don't want to forget my Reese. She is growing up fast and is such a doll. Mindi and Arnold are good parents and are great parents.
Colorado Memories
Now, where shall I begin? Graduation was just wonderful, long but wonderful. It was a thrilling moment to watch Brady walk and receive his masters. After graduation, Erika had planned a barbeque for family and a few friends. She did a great job planning and cooking. Erika’s parents, his sisters Taylor and Kari were also there for the festivities. What a great day. On Saturday, we went to the bicycle library checkout. We all got bikes and went for a bike ride along the Poudre River walkway. It was a nice day and we truly enjoyed each other’s company. Erika’s parents are really great people and we do enjoy being with them. Taylor went with us to China and so we know her and enjoy her also. Later that afternoon, we left for dinner at Cinzetti’s and a Rockies baseball game. It truly was a fun day. The kids were really good at the game and we all had a good time. On Sunday, Erika went to Taylor’s singles ward to see her sustained at Relief Society president. We went to their ward and then Erika joined us later. Erika was supposed to speak but when we got there the counselor in the bishopric told her she would not speak till the following week. After church we ate dinner and then went to a park for a walk. Going for walks with Crew is very interesting. He meanders all along the way and it takes forever to get anywhere. Erika and Brady are so good with him. Kenndi rides in her carrier and is happy and smiling all the way. On Monday, we went to see Jax in Loveland where Brady will work. We also looked at some housing around the area. At this time they weren’t sure if they would move or not. We had lunch and Panda Express and then did a Sam’s Club trip. The afternoon was needed for rest and naps. After that we went to a park and had dinner then, before you knew it, it was bedtime. The four of us played Office Clue. I have never been very good at Clue and I reaffirmed my feeling that I still was not very good at Clue. It truly was a fun time. Tuesday morning came all too soon. Brady started his job at Jax and was off by 7:15 am. Craig and I got up, began to pack, watched Kenndi while Erika took Crew to preschool. As soon as she got home, we were packed and ready to go. We always dread the drive home because it is so long, 9 hours long. It was a great trip and so wonderful to be with them. My fear, however, is that Brady will become so content with this job that he will stay there and not move forward. He won’t be making very much and yet enough to scrape by. They are such good kids and I know the Lord will bless them. On Sunday night, about 1:00 in the morning, Craig and I heard a tap on the door. It was a police woman who asked if we were the Nordfelt’s. She said our car had been broken into. Craig went out to check and it was Brady’s cars that had been broken into. His Subaru car had papers strewn everywhere and they took his car registration and proof of insurance. We were told that they had started to look in his other car when a neighbor scared them off. The strange thing is that they didn’t take anything else. They had their bike racks in the car, baby backpack and blankets but none of that was taken. It seemed strange to me but the police said they probably just grabbed the small booklet that the papers were in hoping to get some money. I hope that’s all it was. We told Brady and Erika they need to be sure and watch their mail in case the thieves tried to commit identity theft. We arrived home in Rexburg about 6:30 pm on Tuesday, May 18. All was well here and it was nice to be in my own bed. Thanks to the Coloradoan Nordfelt’s for a wonderful vacation and for their love and concern for us. It’s always fun to be grandma and grandpa.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Upcoming Trip
Just one more week and we will be on our way to Colorado to see the Nordfelt’s. Craig and I can’t wait. These pictures are meant to entice us and get us ready to spoil our grandchildren. Brady is done with his student teaching and is officially unemployed. We are praying for a job interview or something to begin their life as non-students. Oh, by the way, it needs to be a job that will support his family.
The church has officially offered buy-outs for FM Groups. Craig is seriously considering taking the 9 month buy out and retiring. He is officially bugging me about me retiring. I have thought about it and I am praying about it but I seriously want to keep working. I don’t think Craig will be happy at home with nothing to do. He is so use to being busy and being in charge that I don’t know what he will fill his time with. I am sure, when it is all said and done, that he will adjust but it will take some time. I also worry about our money. He loves to do whatever he wants with his hunting and I know he will hunt every day and it will bug me because I am at work. However, I need to be calm because he hasn’t even made the decision yet. I am getting excited for my new boss. Kevin will be so kind to work for. Maybe I will change my mind once I get started with him and things are done so differently. We will just have to see.I have been asked to speak in devotional again this summer. I was asked last summer but had to say no. Valerie was so sick and we knew that she would not last long. I just couldn’t face the additional stress of preparing and presenting a devotional. When I was asked this year, I couldn’t say no again so here I am. I am going to talk about recognizing the Lord’s hand in our life and becoming his hands here upon the earth. It has been a struggle so far because, as I have gotten older, I don’t think as clearly as before. My thoughts don’t come together as easily and I don’t have the clarity of words. But, I know this is something that will help me and will make me stronger. I also know that I can do this with the Lord’s help. So, here we go again. And the question still lingers, “Why you?”
The church has officially offered buy-outs for FM Groups. Craig is seriously considering taking the 9 month buy out and retiring. He is officially bugging me about me retiring. I have thought about it and I am praying about it but I seriously want to keep working. I don’t think Craig will be happy at home with nothing to do. He is so use to being busy and being in charge that I don’t know what he will fill his time with. I am sure, when it is all said and done, that he will adjust but it will take some time. I also worry about our money. He loves to do whatever he wants with his hunting and I know he will hunt every day and it will bug me because I am at work. However, I need to be calm because he hasn’t even made the decision yet. I am getting excited for my new boss. Kevin will be so kind to work for. Maybe I will change my mind once I get started with him and things are done so differently. We will just have to see.I have been asked to speak in devotional again this summer. I was asked last summer but had to say no. Valerie was so sick and we knew that she would not last long. I just couldn’t face the additional stress of preparing and presenting a devotional. When I was asked this year, I couldn’t say no again so here I am. I am going to talk about recognizing the Lord’s hand in our life and becoming his hands here upon the earth. It has been a struggle so far because, as I have gotten older, I don’t think as clearly as before. My thoughts don’t come together as easily and I don’t have the clarity of words. But, I know this is something that will help me and will make me stronger. I also know that I can do this with the Lord’s help. So, here we go again. And the question still lingers, “Why you?”
Let me also mention my cute little Reese. She has such a vibrant personality and continues to grow. I just canp't believe that she will be two. Where does the time go.
Spring is Kind of Here
We had a great weekend, if you can call working and getting things done great. We got up and walked out four miles, came home for breakfast and began working in the yard. It was an absolutely beautiful day. I cleaned out flower beds, raked up leftover leaves and mowed. Craig cleaned out gutters, trimmed the plum tree and started the edging. About 2:00, we were both tired and quit for the day. Craig left to go get us a Sonic Route 44 Diet Cranberry Limeade. About 3:30, I decided to shower because I was so dusty from mowing and moving things around the yard. It really revitalized me and I felt good. That’s when I knew I had to clean the house a little, especially the toilets. It was one of those days that you feel like you accomplished a lot and feel good about what you accomplished.
The Nordfelt reunion has been moved to Moab—at Bonnie and Larry’s cabin. Mindi got reservations for her family and for us at the Red Cliff Inn. We will stay two nights there. It will be a good getaway. The only problem is the long drive there. By the time I drive that far, my hip is wasted and I am in total pain. Oh well!!!
Brady has started applying for jobs. He has decided that he does not want to teach. I just wish he had decided not to teach before he did his masters. He is reaching out everywhere. There seems to be a lot of places to apply but his master’s degree does not fit the jobs. He and Erika feel confident that something will come along. I have to believe in them. I always have and I won’t stop now. I can’t wait to go see them for his graduation. We got Denver Rockies baseball tickets for Saturday after his graduation. We will all go (Ostergaard’s included) so it will be a great time.
The Nordfelt reunion has been moved to Moab—at Bonnie and Larry’s cabin. Mindi got reservations for her family and for us at the Red Cliff Inn. We will stay two nights there. It will be a good getaway. The only problem is the long drive there. By the time I drive that far, my hip is wasted and I am in total pain. Oh well!!!
Brady has started applying for jobs. He has decided that he does not want to teach. I just wish he had decided not to teach before he did his masters. He is reaching out everywhere. There seems to be a lot of places to apply but his master’s degree does not fit the jobs. He and Erika feel confident that something will come along. I have to believe in them. I always have and I won’t stop now. I can’t wait to go see them for his graduation. We got Denver Rockies baseball tickets for Saturday after his graduation. We will all go (Ostergaard’s included) so it will be a great time.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Hip-Hip-Hooray
On Firday, February 5th, we paid off our Rexburg home. What a wonderful feeling. We began payments in 1992 when we moved to Rexburg. It has only been 19 years and we are so thrilled. I love my home in Rexburg and now, everything we do to it will be home improvement. Now, our next big decision is what to do with the townhouse in Utah. I really can't see us living in it. It would be fine for me but it is small for Craig and all his stuff. Only time will tell.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Losing My Boss
My boss, Vice President Garth Hall, has been called as a mission president. I have know since November, but now it is official. On Firday, January 15, their announcement was in the online Church News. He had to scramble because he had not told anyone in the office. In fact, Sharon had not told her family. Anyhow, the cat was out of the bag and everyone in the world knew now. On January 25, they received notice that they would need a passport and they begin the process. Well, Sharon call SLC and asked about it and the person on the phone with her told her that their name was on the list needing a passport. Today, January 27, they were told that their mission call had been FedEx'd overnight to them. So they are expecite to know where they are going tomorrow sometime. Our council is having dinner at their home on Saturday evening and I am sure we will find out then, if not earlier.
This is a bit of a scary time. I have no idea who will be taking his place. There is speculation that it will be Henry Eying. I really hope that will not be the case but we'll see. I don't think he will leave until end of May, early June. I think it will depend on where he is going as to when he will retire. Until then, we'll pause and hope the call will be good for him and Sharon.
This is a bit of a scary time. I have no idea who will be taking his place. There is speculation that it will be Henry Eying. I really hope that will not be the case but we'll see. I don't think he will leave until end of May, early June. I think it will depend on where he is going as to when he will retire. Until then, we'll pause and hope the call will be good for him and Sharon.
Sad Day
On January 21, Mindi had a miscarriage. What a sad day for them, and for all of us. We all know these things happen for a reason but the heart still aches. Mindi's friend took some new pictures of Reese and they are so precious. Hard things happen in this life. We can only hope we can cope and learn from these life's experiences.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Reflection
I loved this story listed below. It reminded me of my growing up and my family. It reminded me of how my mother always kept in contact with friends and family. I only hope I can be more like my mother and father. And that, one day, my children will want to be more like me.
"I grew up in the 40's/50's with practical parents. A mother, God love her, who washed aluminum foil after she cooked in it, then reused it. She was the original recycle queen, before they had a name for it... A father who was happier getting old shoes fixed than buying new ones. Their marriage was good, their dreams focused. Their best friends lived barely a wave away. I can see them now, Dad in trousers, tee shirt and a hat and Mom in a house dress, lawn mower in one hand, and dish-towel in the other. It was the time for fixing things. A curtain rod, the kitchen radio, screen door, the oven door, the hem in a dress Things we keep. It was a way of life, and sometimes it made me crazy. All that re-fixing, eating, renewing, I wanted just once to be wasteful. Waste meant affluence. Throwing things away meant you knew there'd always be more. But then my mother died, and on that clear summer's night, in the warmth of the hospital room, I was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more. > Sometimes, what we care about most gets all used up and goes away...never to return. So... While we have it... it's best we love it.... And care for it... And fix it when it's broken........ And heal it when it's sick. This is true for marriage..... And old cars.... And children with bad report cards..... And dogs with bad hips.... And aging parents..... And grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it. Some things we keep. Like a best friend that moved away or a classmate we grew up with. There are just some things that make life important, like people we know who are special....... And so, we keep them close!"
"I grew up in the 40's/50's with practical parents. A mother, God love her, who washed aluminum foil after she cooked in it, then reused it. She was the original recycle queen, before they had a name for it... A father who was happier getting old shoes fixed than buying new ones. Their marriage was good, their dreams focused. Their best friends lived barely a wave away. I can see them now, Dad in trousers, tee shirt and a hat and Mom in a house dress, lawn mower in one hand, and dish-towel in the other. It was the time for fixing things. A curtain rod, the kitchen radio, screen door, the oven door, the hem in a dress Things we keep. It was a way of life, and sometimes it made me crazy. All that re-fixing, eating, renewing, I wanted just once to be wasteful. Waste meant affluence. Throwing things away meant you knew there'd always be more. But then my mother died, and on that clear summer's night, in the warmth of the hospital room, I was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more. > Sometimes, what we care about most gets all used up and goes away...never to return. So... While we have it... it's best we love it.... And care for it... And fix it when it's broken........ And heal it when it's sick. This is true for marriage..... And old cars.... And children with bad report cards..... And dogs with bad hips.... And aging parents..... And grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it. Some things we keep. Like a best friend that moved away or a classmate we grew up with. There are just some things that make life important, like people we know who are special....... And so, we keep them close!"
Monday, January 11, 2010
January 6, 2010
On December 24, Craig and I left for Christmas in Utah. Brady and Erika arrived in Utah on Tuesday evening, December 22. Mindi was a gracious host and they did some fun things together but we just couldn’t go that early. It was fun getting there on Christmas Eve afternoon. We went to Jen’s house first to drop off the presents for their family. However, Christmas Eve was at Mindi’s. We enjoyed Mindi’s homemade cinnamon rolls, opening one present, sprinkling Christmas dust and trying to read some scriptures. It can be a bit challenging with three little children but it was fun.
It was so great to be with the kids. Reese continues to grow up and change and become more and more a little girl and not a baby. Kenndi and Crew are as cute as can be. I am going to include a section from Brady’s blog to tell the story of Kenndi’s doctor appointment.
“Kennedi is getting bigger and bigger, and cuter and cuter. Even at 4 months, she only weighs 13 pounds. That is only 3 pounds bigger than Crew was born at. She is such an angel and has the cutest smile. On a side note, there is a story I need to tell you. While Erika and I were in Utah, last week, Kennedi had a very rough night and could not sleep. When morning finally came, Erika and I were both exhausted. We knew that something must be wrong with Kenndi and decided that we needed to take her to the hospital. The only problem was that being in Utah, Kennedi's medicade would not cover her. If you think about it, the whole reason Kennedi is even on Medicare, is because Erika and I are dirt poor students. So a 150 dollar trip to the doctor is no small thing. But after much deliberation and many phone calls to various hospitals and urgent cares, we decided we had to take her in regardless of the cost ($100 - $150 as quoted by several places we called). Well we ultimately decided to go to my sisters doctor since he was a pediatrician and it wouldn't cost any more than the urgent care. Well it turned out that Kennedi had an ear infection. At the end of her appointment, the doctor looked at us and said "I have decided that I will not charge you for this visit. Sitting here talking to you it just doesn't feel right to charge you." It was a very touching gesture, and very unexpected. Erika even broke out into tears in the waiting room after. Right before the doctor said this we had been discussing books and which ones were our favorites. I had mentioned that Les Miserable was one of my favorite books. The doctor replied that is was one of his as well, and one that he reads every year. His gesture of kindness reminded me of the unexpected act of mercy and kindness the bishop in Les Miserable did for Jean Valjean. This kind act has reminded me that there are still Christlike people out there in the world, and Doctor Winn is one of them. Thank you doctor Winn.On a different note, today as I was putting Crew down for his nap, I started scratching his head. He seemed to really like it. He would close his eyes occasionally only to reopen them and stare at me. When I stopped, Crew reached over and started to scratch my head. We both looked at each other, and Crew smiled. A moment later he was asleep and snoring. What a precious moment.”
I don’t think I could have told the story any better. Brady and Erika were truly blessed and watched over. To people like Dr. Winn, I give thanks for his generosity and his great example.
On Monday, December 28, we all went to the Dinosaur Museum. Craig did not feel very good with his back but he was a trooper. It is a really great museum and is built with kids in mind. I wasn’t sure if Reese would get into this whole thing but she really did. She and Crew seemed to enjoy every minute. Jen, Mycol and Riley went with us and it was fun to spend the day with them. We had such a good time at the museum. Afterwards, we went for a hamburger and it tasted really great. I’m not sure if I was just really hungry or if it was that good. I know it was past lunchtime for the kids, especially Reese. She devoured the french fries. Reese, Kenndi and Crew were so much fun to be around. Kenndi is a sweet, calm and beautiful baby. She looks just like Brady to me. I have looked up some past pictures of the kids when they were young. I found a picture of Mindi as a baby and Kenndi looks a lot like her. I am truly blessed with wonderful and beautiful grand children.
On Monday evening, Craig’s brothers and sisters got together for dinner at Dana’s. It was a good evening until the conversation turned to health care and Obama. Dana, MoNene and especially Su got kind of worked up over politics. I kept trying to change the subject back to reporting how everyone’s family was doing but it didn’t work. It was good to see them and catch up a litte. We left early so we could be with the kids before they went to bed.
Brady left at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday December 29th. Craig and I left about 9:00 so we could have time to stop and see Gene and Joeleen. It had begun to snow and there were accidents everywhere. We ended up with great roads once we got to about Far West. We were very glad to get home.
On December 24, Craig and I left for Christmas in Utah. Brady and Erika arrived in Utah on Tuesday evening, December 22. Mindi was a gracious host and they did some fun things together but we just couldn’t go that early. It was fun getting there on Christmas Eve afternoon. We went to Jen’s house first to drop off the presents for their family. However, Christmas Eve was at Mindi’s. We enjoyed Mindi’s homemade cinnamon rolls, opening one present, sprinkling Christmas dust and trying to read some scriptures. It can be a bit challenging with three little children but it was fun.
It was so great to be with the kids. Reese continues to grow up and change and become more and more a little girl and not a baby. Kenndi and Crew are as cute as can be. I am going to include a section from Brady’s blog to tell the story of Kenndi’s doctor appointment.
“Kennedi is getting bigger and bigger, and cuter and cuter. Even at 4 months, she only weighs 13 pounds. That is only 3 pounds bigger than Crew was born at. She is such an angel and has the cutest smile. On a side note, there is a story I need to tell you. While Erika and I were in Utah, last week, Kennedi had a very rough night and could not sleep. When morning finally came, Erika and I were both exhausted. We knew that something must be wrong with Kenndi and decided that we needed to take her to the hospital. The only problem was that being in Utah, Kennedi's medicade would not cover her. If you think about it, the whole reason Kennedi is even on Medicare, is because Erika and I are dirt poor students. So a 150 dollar trip to the doctor is no small thing. But after much deliberation and many phone calls to various hospitals and urgent cares, we decided we had to take her in regardless of the cost ($100 - $150 as quoted by several places we called). Well we ultimately decided to go to my sisters doctor since he was a pediatrician and it wouldn't cost any more than the urgent care. Well it turned out that Kennedi had an ear infection. At the end of her appointment, the doctor looked at us and said "I have decided that I will not charge you for this visit. Sitting here talking to you it just doesn't feel right to charge you." It was a very touching gesture, and very unexpected. Erika even broke out into tears in the waiting room after. Right before the doctor said this we had been discussing books and which ones were our favorites. I had mentioned that Les Miserable was one of my favorite books. The doctor replied that is was one of his as well, and one that he reads every year. His gesture of kindness reminded me of the unexpected act of mercy and kindness the bishop in Les Miserable did for Jean Valjean. This kind act has reminded me that there are still Christlike people out there in the world, and Doctor Winn is one of them. Thank you doctor Winn.On a different note, today as I was putting Crew down for his nap, I started scratching his head. He seemed to really like it. He would close his eyes occasionally only to reopen them and stare at me. When I stopped, Crew reached over and started to scratch my head. We both looked at each other, and Crew smiled. A moment later he was asleep and snoring. What a precious moment.”
I don’t think I could have told the story any better. Brady and Erika were truly blessed and watched over. To people like Dr. Winn, I give thanks for his generosity and his great example.
On Monday, December 28, we all went to the Dinosaur Museum. Craig did not feel very good with his back but he was a trooper. It is a really great museum and is built with kids in mind. I wasn’t sure if Reese would get into this whole thing but she really did. She and Crew seemed to enjoy every minute. Jen, Mycol and Riley went with us and it was fun to spend the day with them. We had such a good time at the museum. Afterwards, we went for a hamburger and it tasted really great. I’m not sure if I was just really hungry or if it was that good. I know it was past lunchtime for the kids, especially Reese. She devoured the french fries. Reese, Kenndi and Crew were so much fun to be around. Kenndi is a sweet, calm and beautiful baby. She looks just like Brady to me. I have looked up some past pictures of the kids when they were young. I found a picture of Mindi as a baby and Kenndi looks a lot like her. I am truly blessed with wonderful and beautiful grand children.
On Monday evening, Craig’s brothers and sisters got together for dinner at Dana’s. It was a good evening until the conversation turned to health care and Obama. Dana, MoNene and especially Su got kind of worked up over politics. I kept trying to change the subject back to reporting how everyone’s family was doing but it didn’t work. It was good to see them and catch up a litte. We left early so we could be with the kids before they went to bed.
Brady left at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday December 29th. Craig and I left about 9:00 so we could have time to stop and see Gene and Joeleen. It had begun to snow and there were accidents everywhere. We ended up with great roads once we got to about Far West. We were very glad to get home.
New Year’s was normal. I took that whole week off and it was great. I got the Christmas decorations down and put away, the shrunk all cleaned and polished, some closets cleaned and drawers cleaned out. It was very refreshing and rejuvinating for me.
I fogot to mention earlier that in the middle of December, Craig passed his national facility manager test. He is now nationally certified and got a pay raise effective immediately. We are grateful for the heavenly help he received. He had to take the test in Pocatello at 8:00 a.m. However, we also feel bad because some of the other FM’s have not passed the test. He has 2 ½ years left to work and this will help towards our retirement and social security. I am very proud of him. He studied hard and has always been a good provider for the family.
I changed Primary teaching positions on Sunday, January 3. I will now teach the 8 year olds. It was a challenge for me. There were only 4 there but still it was hard. When I walked back into Primary, my Sunbeams were all sitting together and I felt my heart strings being pulled. When I started with them it was such an adjustment. However, in the end I loved them all.
Monday, January 4, it was back to work and here I am. Actually, it was good to be back to work. I know I work better on a schedule and routine. I am also grateful for my job and all that goes with it. I will miss Garth when he leaves this summer to be a mission president. There is always a certain fear in what the future may be.
Mindi is on KSL, Studio 5, today (January 6). This is her second time on their show demonstrating recipes. She loves doing this and hopefully more people will log onto her website. The more people that log on, the more funds she gets. It’s her way of earning a bit of money from her website.
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