Zotz

Blessings

2010-01-18T19:16:00.001-08:00

This is an ode to my five girls.

In my patriachal blessing it says that my children will bless my name and be a comfort to me.

I have been thinking about my girls alot lately, as I usually do. I think about the struggles and joys from when they were young children. They endured and conquered their struggles and had many joys as well. (2 Nephi 2:25) Now that they are adults, except Kellie who is well on her way to becoming an adult, I pray for them more, much more then I ever have. I know my Heavenly Father hears my prayers. I am reminded that their struggles will strenghten them and prepare them for what is to come. I marvel at their strength and endurance. I am proud of the kind of wives and friends they are. I am pleased beyond words that they know their value and aren't afraid to speak their minds when they feel the need. I am amazed at how smart they are and that they will all get a college degree. I am grateful that they all have testimonies of the savior and that they attend church and all have temple recommends. I greatly appreciate how they call me, ask me questions about life, talk with me about their day and bouye (sp) me up when I feel broken. There are no words to describe how lucky I am that I get to be their mother. I am shocked that because I am their mother that they turned out so well.

My children are a great comfort to me.
I am blessed beyond words.
Thank you to my 5 great ones!

Bees

2009-12-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

I was looking out ate my kitchen window while I was washing dishes. It is something I do it often because I like to watch the woodpeckers fly in and out of their homes. I noticed something different on the tree. I couldn't figure out what it was so I went into my neighbors yard and saw a bunch of bees flying near the tree. When I got closer I could see that it was a huge beehive. My neighbors didn't know it was there. I have learned so much since that day. I wanted to share the information with you.

It took about 4 months to build the hive. There are about 20,000 bees living in the hive. There is one queen bee per hive. In this hive there are only about 100 male bees and the the rest are female. The males don't sting, they have a different job. So when you get stung by a bee it is a female. A hive will create a new queen bee about every 6 months. A worker bee lives for about a month. An active queen will live about 6 months. A lazy queen lives for about a year. When bees are moved their new home has to be 5 miles away. Bees fly about a 2 mile radius around their homes. Hives hold babies (magets) and honey. It is best to extract bees on a cool night. The keeper vacuumes them up into a box. Once the queen is in the box all the worker bees will happily follow their queen into the box. Once bees are removed any that were left will try and build a new hive in the same place for up to 6 months.

If you need to get bees extracted from your home it will cost you about $150.00.

Another thing I have learned is that girls and boys are different. How you ask? '

Girls will see the hive and and give a little shriek and not want to look at it for very long.

Boys will ask for a rock so they can throw it at the hive to see what they will do.

This has been the coolest 'backyard science' thing ever.
We all need bees in our lives. The end.

Perspective

2009-11-13T10:08:00.000-08:00

Mom's - It's early morning and an unexpected rain comes during my 3 mile walk. It is great fun getting wet in the rain knowing I have the luxury of going right home and taking a shower. I get back to the car in the church parking lot as seminary is just ending. So Kellie doesn't have to get wet because she has to go to school, I move the car closer. I park in a place where she may not see me so I move the car again so I can be within her view. As I move the car I see a YM I know who is sitting in his car and wave a friendly hello. Then I wait happily listening to country music and reflect on the exilerating walk in the rain. Kellie comes to the car a bit earlier then I expected. So I asked, "why so early?"

Kellie's - Kellie gets out of seminary and is enjoying standing in the rain chatting with friends. Sees that I have moved the car and continues to chat with friends. Sees me move the car again and wave, she hurries to the car. Her answer to my question, "Why so early?" You moved the car close to me and waved me over so I hurried.

The moral of the story; try to remember there is ALWAYS more then your side of the story. Before we rush to conclusions, try to look at things in a different way. It may elemenate so much 'stuff'.

Have a great day everyone!!

Grateful for Service

2009-10-28T23:11:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was one of those cleansing days...not that my house got super clean but my soul. I cried at every little thing and cried at nothing. By the end of the day my eyes were super swollen and I was exhausted. I was productive during parts of the day however, I caulked and painted door frames in my house that was started over 2 years ago. So basically I caulked, cried and was productive. Today with all the tears gone something great happened...opprotunities to do service. The Elders called and needed dinner. After dinner a great friend called and needed a ride home from work because her car was in the shop. These were simple things that allowed me to serve. What a great blessing after feeling so yucky yesterday to feeling so grateful today. A good cleansing helps put things in perspective and opens the way for a grateful heart.

That kind of day.

2009-10-21T10:10:00.001-07:00

Today should be a Pride and Prejudice day. All my girls should be home and we should hang out in our sweats, make cookie dough, close all the blinds, giggle about silly things and then watch Mr. Darcy...well do his thing. I'm not talking about the 90 minute version. I am talking about the only good version, the 6 hour one. We could remind Paul there are sports in this version too. You know the hunting and fishing part, those are sports and then watch him roll his eyes and get out of the room as quickly as possible. After the movie we could have some Orange Chicken and go to Kellie's concert and watch her blow her horn. Sounds like a perfect way to spend the day. Girls, are you ready???

The Girls

2009-10-19T23:02:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those days that reminds me I'm a mom of 5 girls. I was blessed to talk with each of them today. Each daughter is full of life, lots a good stuff and a bit of yucky stuff. That is to make sure they don't get bored with their lives. All live outside of the home now except one, the youngest. Each daughter is great. Each has unique talents and gifts that make them wonderful and so different from the other. People would ask me if it was easy raising 5 girls because they must be all the same. I think my girls have a few things that are similiar but have LOTS of things that are so different. And that can make things kind of spicey around here for all of us. But today I was reminded, that even though we are different there is one very important thing that we all have in common. We are a family, an eternal family. And even though we may not always agree with eachother or like some of the stuff eachother does....we all love eachother. What an amazing gift. And in the end we all support eachother. That too is a gift. So thank you to my girls for reminding me that this life is filled with challenges and things that make us stretch and grow but that we will ALWAYS have eachother to help us through the stuff.

This mornings walk

2009-09-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

Almost every seminary morning I drive with Kellie to seminary and meet Aunt Janie and we walk for 3 miles AND talk for 3 miles. After we walk I go another mile to my house with my shuffle(music). It is great fun and I love that my excercise is over before 7AM. The "subject of the day" was medical stuff because my nephew Brent just had some teeth implants put in because he is missing 2 permanent teeth. It has been a long process for him, a few surgeries, and they only have one more thing to do and it will ALL be done. Janie asked me some questions about when Julie was having her 5surgeries, what the tons of Doctor appointments were like, what the family went through, etc. I started to tell her one story about Julie's experience and began to cry...I couldn't even talk for a bit....silly me. I shared with her the time we all went to pick Julie up from the hospital to take her home after she had been there for a week when she was 8 years old. The doctor wanted to take one more x-ray before we left. We wheeled Julie down the hall to the day-room. The whole way there Kellie, who was 3 at the time, had her hand on top of Julie's being very gentle and rubbing her hand which was on the wheel chair arm rest. To me it really shows the big heart these 2 girls had and still have. Julie was willing to let her sister hold her hand and Kellie wanted to show her sister the whole ride down the hall that she loved her. If that moment could get any better, it was Easter time. The local firemen and policemen (dressed in uniform) came to the hospital that day to give the children stuffed animals and high fives. All of them were lining the hall when we were wheeling Julie to get her final x-ray. They all had smiles on their faces and were sending Julie good wishes. She couldn't smile because her face was swollen... she did wave to them and show her appreciation....Julie in her pretty pink nightgown. These 2 mental pictures will stay with me always. And now..typing it....tears. Tears that our family is so blessed with a Julie, Kellie, Holly, Shelley and Carlie.

Disneyland

2009-08-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

You all know I love going to Disneyland. Especially when I take my girls and their friends and I know they are having a great time. Last Friday I had a very new and enjoyable experience at Disneyland. It really warms my heart. My nephew Brent wanted to surprise me and go to Disneyland the same day I was going. It was a GREAT surprise and we met for dinner and chatted for almost 3 hours. He told me a bunch of stuff and he asked me tons of questions. It was truly magical.

So here is the break down of the day. I picked Emily L., Jessica Adcox and Kellie up from school. We got into the park around 4:30. The girls ran off to play and I sat and watched the ceremony that they do when they take down the American Flag. (If you haven't seen this I highly recommend it.) I love the marching band playing and the quartet singing patriotic songs. They encourage the audiance to sing along too. They honor the men and woman who have served our country and invite them to circle the flag pole. Old and young come and stand military style and salute our beautiful flag. I love this and am a bit silly and get teary every time. Then I met up with Brent at the Hungary Bear and we chatted. A wonderful and inspiring talk. By the time we finished it was dark. So I walked over to get a mint julip (with extra cherries) and then waited for the fireworks. Again, I get a little teary even though I have a huge smile on my face because I love the fireworks...and then I try not to have too silly of a look on my face when I see Dumbo fly!!! After the fireworks I went to buy some Mickey Mints (very delicious) to share with the ladies at work for being so sweet to me around my birthday. Then waited for the girls looking down main street near the train station. It was a very special trip and I am so grateful for family and friends who enrich my life.

The youngest has her license.

2009-08-04T22:25:00.001-07:00

2 big things happened today. Caleb and Holly celebrated their wedding anniversary. What a BIG day for them!! Congratulations...your gift is in the mail. (sorry it's late)

The second BIG thing that happened today is Kellie got her driver's license. Some moms might be thrilled at this happening because they don't have to drive their children every where, etc. I however was always a little melancholy when each of my girls got their license. That means we won't get to have chats in the car as often. I loved picking my girls up from school, church, or any activity and instantly knowing their moods when they got in the car. I loved hearing thier stories and simply enjoyed being with them. It seems that once they can drive themselves, from the time they leave shool and get home the activities of their day seem less intersting to them so they feel I won't want to hear....and if they do tell stories it is way less animated. However, when I got my license and could get myself places and didn't have to rely on others I was super excited. So although it changes things for me....I love that they want their independence and that they are growing up to be competent young adults.

The thing that really is strange about today is that this will be the second to last thing that kellie does before she has total independence and of course the last thing will be when she graduates from High School. This is definitley a mile stone...and one that changes my life forever.

So what did I do this evening while Kellie went driving over to people's houses (and yes, one of the visits was to Marshall's)? I scrubbed my kitchen floor grout. Paul was at meetings and Kellie was gone...so I cranked up 5 for Fighting and scrubbed away. It looks amazing by the way. I have a feeling with all my free time while Kellie and Paul are gone I will clean and organize. Fun times. =/ I am happy to report that Angela and Emily came over to visit me and we made some fun plans for the group...so all is not lost.

So here is to changes...and to exciting things in the future.

Kellie's Birthday

2009-07-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Kellie's 16th birthday. I gave her the date idea book I have been working on for months. Thanks to all of you for your help. It is never too late to add more ideas..so if you hear of some great double/group date ideas let me know. She also got some fun gifts from her friends. One of the most thoughtful was a loaf of bread, peanut butter and honey from Emily Lawrence. I guess when Kel goes over to her house that is what she always eats there. I love thoughtful gifts like that. Kellie invited a group of kids to share her special day. The 3 boys offically asked out the 3 girls and it was all of their official first dates. So journal entery for each of them!! The boys picked up their dates and met at our house. Then I drove them all to Disneyland since non of them can drive eachother yet. haha Kellie got a birthday pin and Marshall got an "I'm Celebrating" pin since he was on his first date and has waited so long to do so. And the cool part is he actually wore it. The boys paid for the girls lunches and were quit gentlemanly towards there dates. It was sweet. I met them for dinner, a jungle cruise ride and then off to see the fireworks. I was sad that Dumbo did not fly last night during the show. Kellie got her b-day gift card to spend and had to use it that day. Marshall and Kel went off to spend that and the other kids went on one last ride. We all met to find Kel has spent most of her money buying each of her friends a "thanks for coming to my party" gift. We took a few last pictures (which I will post on FB) and then we were off. These kids are so great and were so gracious I feel blessed that I know them. I also feel very happy that Kel has such great friends. I feel very blessed that I have such a great family and wonderful friends too. Thanks to all!!!

Service day

2009-07-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

Today started out with taking the young women to clean a friend's house. We had so much fun. While we were there this friend asked me if I would mind watching a pot of homema'made spaghetti sauce while she is on holiday for 2 days. So tonight she brought over a large pot and now my house smells great. All the ingredients are straight out of her garden. Doing service is so much fun and smells delicious.

Julie will stay for one more full day and then back to Utah she goes. I am so grateful she came down and I hope she had a great time. But I know there is so much more partin' to be done in Provo. So I'm glad she has a fun place to go back to with such nice people.

This is Kellie's last week of summer school. She is getting an A in the class!! Next week she will turn 16 and get her driver's lisence. Big things instore for my little girl who is growing up.

Sunday night Julie, Kellie, 'Someone' and I took a stroll around the University of Redlands campus. We saw things we didn't even know were there. It was a beautiful evening in Redlands and I'm grateful we have such a beautiful campus to enjoy so close to our home.

Here's to wishing great things for my loved ones in the month of July!!

Wide Awake

2009-07-10T04:41:00.000-07:00

We took Julie to the beach today. Shelley and Jett met us. Jett looked so cute in his swim trunks and muscle shirt. He loved watching the pigeons and liked watching the water but wanted nothing to do with getting in the water. Julie did not get at tan but she did not get a burn either. That is always good. The weather was perfect. Carlie got some good news today! She passed her AP test. With all that goodness, I am unable to sleep. Luckily my son-in-law lent me a book about Wallace Whipple that is so funny. Lots on my mind. The good news is the fever blister is done and my throat is feeling much better. The big question is: What is around the corner?

Party time

2009-07-05T07:43:00.000-07:00

I feel like throwing a party....a pity party. I don't have these parties very often....and don't expect any balloons.

I have been sick for 2 weeks. I got sick right before my husband and I left for our 25 wedding celebration. I kept a lot of meds with me and tried to be perky, even though I felt like my face was extra large because of my sinus'. When I got home from that I could feel a fever blister coming on and boy did it turn out to be a doosy. It hurts to smile or laugh. I can't have any kissing parties with my 2 grandbabies. That makes me sad...'cause I won't see Jack until Thanksgiving. It is getting better, but it is in that gross getting better stage where it looks really yucky. So up to Utah I go with my awesome fever blister and still feeling a bit like a hot air balloon with huge lips. And I think I am starting to sound like a man....my throat is so sore. But I put a happy face on and get to work getting Carlie settled. I even tried to put happy toes on too. I am currently wearing bright yellow nail polish...some may think it is a bit loud, I think it is fun and wacky. I will be going home on Monday...the house will be VERY quiet after a month with ALL the girls home and the 2 babies. I am glad there are things to do when I get home like rearrange my entire house. And there are still 3 birthdays to celebrate.

Some may not be happy with me having parties for Kellie and friends. But they may also not understand that I get my energy from that. I love the anticipation and planning of the party. I love hearing laughing and people having a great time. I will only get this for 2 more years. That is such a crushing idea....2 years....and quiet. It will be great with Paul and I home alone....but the reality is I will be home alone....a lot.

Party over. Medication taken. Looking forward to going to the Provo Canyon. I bought a book about President Lincoln that I will enjoy reading today. And I get to spend one more day with Caleb, Holly, Jack and Carlie. No matter how yucky the day is....if you look you will always find rainbows!!!!!

A little recap of June.....it was the busiest June of my life...

2009-07-02T22:22:00.001-07:00

I would have to say it was even busier then the June I got married 25 years ago. We took lots of fun pictures...but they are spread out on everyone's camera's, so I hope you enjoy these few. This life is such a gift...even when it is busy...or should I say...full of adventures.

It was soooo great having the babies together...I am so excited for when they can run around and have lots of fun together.

Julie having a BYU buddy come and visit her...isn't he a cutie??!!!

A super cute Sunny-D spokesperson...makes me want to buy some.

The boys playing football at the duck park. (Ford Park)

Jett meeting Mickey is like the "Best thing EVER!!!"

Of course a trip to California means a trip to California Adventure and Disneyland. This is my favorite picture. Sad to report that dino Jack just got torn down...still a great pic.

The girls have all learned how great it is to have brother-in-laws. Especially Kellie.

This is Johnny Thomas. He is golden. All the Chatfield's love him!

It was great having my girls all together for the month of June. They are beautiful individuals but carry such amazing strength together.

Change

2009-06-29T00:45:00.000-07:00

Change is such a big word. When one thing changes so many other things follow and change too. I will be taking my 4th daughter to college in 2 days. She will go through lots of changes. Some of the changes will hurt...kind of like growing pains. Holly and Julie will go through changes just by having Carlie in Utah with them. By Carlie going to UVU, Kellie will be the only one left at home and she will go through changes. Paul and I will only have one child at home. Which means only one child schedule to keep track of. Kellie will be driving so I will not get to take her or any other child around. That is a big change and I will really miss it. I have loved taking my girls to their different activities and have loved the chats we have had. This change will not be a good one for me. Shelley will still live in Pasadena which is so close to here, but she will get more involved in her ward and her baby will be able to have little friends who will park play dates with the other kids and their mommies....she will visit, but as Jett gets older she will go through changes. How will I deal with the new changes? Will I use my time wisely? Will I do all the things I said I would when my children got older? The one change that I really want but don't think will ever come is to have a certain person respect me. Change...ready or not...here it comes.

June

2009-06-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

June has been a fun filled action packed month. Holly and Jack coming for a month long visit. Shelley and Jett hanging out with us some of the time. Carlie gratuating from Redlands High School and preparing to go to UVU. Lots of awards nights that Carlie sang for and Kellie played her trumpet for. Julie coming to stay from June 10 to July 1st. Grandma Chatfield coming for graduation. Kellie preparing for girls camp as a first year YC, I was preparing for camp as the certification specialist and Paul was preparing to go to girls camp as THE Priesthood. Then we actually went to camp. During camp Kellie also started summer school and new member training as the brass captain of the RHS marching band. I drove her up and down from camp every day. Talk about a girl who did a great job balancing. Paul and I celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary. A couple of trips to Disneyland. Caleb coming for a couple of surprise visit which led to trips to El Burrito. Throw in a sister sleepover that Shelley hosted in Pasadena. (Thanks Shelley, you are great) Holly and Shelley each gave spiritual thoughts in YW and Julie and I each taught a lesson in YW. To add to the fun a couple of root canals and visits to the Doctor. The last Sunday that our family is all together we will singing in Sacrament meeting. A final farewell dinner to celebrate Carlie's graduation and the Holly, Jack, Julie and Carlie will be taken back to Utah by Paul who will hopefully stay up there and relax for awhile. I love when all my family is together. I am also thrilled that they have lives away from mom and dad that they enjoy and are active in the gospel. As a mom what could be better, happy children and a great husband!!

"Extreme Makeover" Youth Conference Style

2009-05-31T23:02:00.000-07:00

I was super lucky this weekend and got to be a leader at youth conference. It is always a privilage and so much fun to spend time with the youth of the stake. We gathered at the Live Oak Christmas Tree Farm. Set up our tents...and yes, Paul had to come and set up ours because I was not having great success. Brother Brice and his helpers provided a great meal as always. We had 3 speakers. One was on faith. How you have to have faith to overcome trials and to have faith that things can be "madeover." The next speaker was very powerful, she spoke on sharing. Sharing your wonderful self with others, opening your mouth and sharing the gospel, sharing the peace and the power that comes because of the gospel. And the 3rd was a man that is a plastic surgeon. He spoke of how he gets patients that have actually gone through the make-over process BEFORE they come to him. Many of his patients loose over a 100 pounds and they come to him to get the stretched out skin taken off. But he let us know that they have already made the important changes in the way the live their lives. And that is what we need to do...make ourselves over...make improvements that will be life long changes and not quick fixes. I am grateful for the powerful messages these wonderful people shared with us.

Next was a dance under the stars. It was lots of fun for most. One boy finally danced with a girl that he has admired for 2 years...they are both seniors and this was pretty much his last chance before they go to college. The photographer got a great picture and so that moment has been caputred forever. There are always those at the stake dances that have a good time no matter what..they make it great for themselves and those around them. Then there are those that expect people to make it great for them. And there are others who will not have a good time no matter what. I feel sad for those kids....where ever you go, have a good time, be happy, be the kind of person people want to be around. I had a fun time watching these kids interact, be kind to eachother and just have a good time.

We all slept in tents, had breakfast, we all had on our lime green extreme makeover shirts on and off we went into Redlands to do service. We layed sprinklers, pulled out trees, cleaned up some orange groves, layed 5500 sq ft of sod, played bingo with the elderly, painted playground equipement, and on and on. These kids worked hard. We ate lunch at a park, and then back to finish all the service. When all was done we headed back to the farm to eat dinner, have a testimony meeting and finish things up with a slide show. It was wonderful to see these youth being so supportive of eachother, to cheer eachother on, to be strengthened by eachother and to see testimonies grow. The gospel is so beautiful. I feel so blessed to have been a part of it. I also feel blessed that Kellie didn't complain...because they put her in my family. She could have easily demanded a switch, but she went with it and had a good time. I am super grateful my girls don't mind me being around.

Another highlight of the weekend is having Holly, Caleb and Jack come from Utah. Having Shelley, Rick and Jett come from Pasadena. And to see every one enjoy eachother. It will feel complete when Julie comes June 10th. To cap off this great weekend Carlie graduated from seminary Sunday night. She was part of the choir and also sang in a quartet and did a great job.

New fence & Blessings

2009-05-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been full of blessings. Friday we had boys show up from the ages of 15 to 83 help tear down our fence. Watching them work was wonderful! I was trying hard to not be 'a girl' and start crying. These guys showed up happy and ready to work. They got down to business and the job was done in 2 hours, including cementing the new posts and the clean up. A wonderful man lent his work truck to haul the old fence to the dump. Johnny and Micheal stayed for a few hours and hung out with Paul and I. We took them to El Burrito! We sat outside and talked about all kinds of stuff. It was great fun.

Saturday morning Kellie and I woke up to get things ready for more guys to come. We had watermelon, donuts and lots of icy water bottles. The weather was perfect. Paul and Carlie spent the morning at the Bishop's storehouse fullfilling our wards youth assignment. Men came from the ages of 8 to 83 and the fence was up in a few hours....and it looks great. The posts for the new patio cover were put into place and that project will be done in a week or so.

The fence looks great and the men did such a great job. The best part for me was watching these men having a great time working with eachother.

Paul and I spent today putting the raspberries back into place, cleaning up the old bricks, mowing the lawn, and then sat in the back yard enjoying the cool breeze, watching Henry (a hawk that lives in the big tree across the street) in his tree and enjoying the smell of Jasmine. This weekend has been full of blessings. And how great on this weekend when we honor the people who have made it possible for us to live in this beautiful free land.

Julie is the BEST...

2009-05-19T17:06:00.000-07:00

And I was about to go on about how incredible I am, but I think I'll dedicate this blog post to the lady who started it all, my MOMMY! Joelle Walker Chatfield is one of the greatest women I know, and I count myself one of the five luckiest girls in the whole world to get to have her as a mommy. She's always been a great example to me, and I love her with all my heart! So to all you readers out there, please make a comment about a special memory you have with my mom. Here's mine:
One day several years ago, my mom and I spent the day chilling at Downtown Disney. We walked around looking in stores, and had dinner at the Jungle Cafe. Nothing too extravagant or eventful, but I remember it as one of my best days. Thanks Mom!

25 years ago we didn't look this old.

2009-05-06T18:17:00.000-07:00

My sister Wendy and I helped my mom celebrate her 70th birthday, and what better place then Disneyland. We spent 2 days there and had a great time. We stayed the night at the Candy Cane Inn which is right next to D-land. We had a fun and relaxed time. Looking at the pictures however...these are not the faces I see in my minds eye when I think of me, Wendy and my mom. My minds-eye sees the faces of these girls when we lived together 25 years ago. I am very gratrful that we are still here together regardless of age (and wrinkles). What a great life we have.

Speaking of the minds-eye image. I had a friend find me on Facebook. He was in my ward (and no I never dated him) when I was a youth. He had the coolest hair and looked like a surfer guy. He and his parents were always super great to me. Since he has found me we have chatted a bit. Weird that this teenage boy (in my mind) has 8 kids, been a Bishop twice, owns a home and has very little hair. I'm not really feeling old, it's just weird to see every one else looking old. Because of this new fb connection I have conneted with a few of my other youth friends....even Micheal Jackson. Fun times!!

So here is to OLD friends and relatives!!

And always remember the motto: It is better to be any age then in the box.

Tred Mill

2009-05-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

A blog post is usually more interesting with a photo. This is Kellie and I at CA Adventure during our mid-week get away.

I just wanted to let you know that I have gone back to the tred mill. I ran 2 miles yesterday and 2 today. Thank heavens for my Ipod and Advil. It is the only way I am able to run. My modivation....my 25th wedding anniversary is in 2 months, I am a grandma and want to be one for along time, and the snowman look is way out of fashion. My goal is to continue to walk 4 miles in the morning with Aunt Janie while seminary is in session and come home and get right on the tred mill. I will have to change my routine in June when seminary is over. Wish me luck!!

It's a Small World

2009-04-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

Today I was driving home from Seminary where I meet Aunt Janie and she and I walk for 3 miles. For some reason a memory popped into my head about when we were at Disneyland and Shelley and Jett were with us. We went on the It's a Small World ride. Jett was doing fine when we got into the boat and we started down the little river, as soon as he went into the building his eyes got SOOOOOOO BIG and the expression on his face was WOW!!!! there is so much to see. His eyes stayed that big for the entire ride. It totally cracked me up. So when I was driving home today that thought popped into my head and I started laughing out loud. Thanks for the memories Jett. Maybe we can go on that ride tomorrow and see if it happens again. haha

Too Longs

2009-04-12T19:18:00.001-07:00

Wow, it has been too long since I have added to my blog. I think the whole picture thing has discouraged me, so I need to keep the faith and just do it. Life has been great for the most part. Lots of trips to Disneyland thanks to Uncle Jim, Aunt Ruth, my mom and Holly's birthday. It was great to have Jack and Jett meet. They are both super cute boys and their mommies are super cute with them. Carlie had a great time in New York. Kellie is chillin' with the group. Which I heard a great story about the group. A mom of one of the kids that comes over came up to me at church. She thanked me for having the parties. She said it's been a great thing for her child and all the others. She really appreciates what it has done in helping her child be more social and have great kids to hang out with. That made me feel great. Well, that's all for now. For sure next time I will add photos.

Simply Beautiful

2009-02-07T22:17:00.000-08:00

As I promised, more Senior Carlie.
Josh Bloom was the photographer and I think he did a super great job.

Here's to Carlie the graduate class of '09!!!

Milissa and Edward

2009-01-21T19:55:00.000-08:00

I work with a super cute girl who made reading the Twilight series so much fun.

She thought Edward was such a dream boat she had him tattooed on her ankle.

Milissa is so pretty, so fun and incrediably talentd.

Scandia and America

2009-01-20T14:46:00.000-08:00

For New Year's Eve Eve the youth in our stake and surrounding stakes get to spend the night at Scandia (an amusement park) for their end of the year dance. Julie and I have started a tradition of driving these fine kids and then she and I go on a hot date. So great times are had by all.

I think all these kids are super great. Here's to a new year!!

New Subject:
One month has passed since I have put anything new on my blog. One reason is I am discouraged. For some reason when I upload a picture, the only thing that shows up on my computer screen is a very lengthy code. Which means it's really hard to talk about the cute pictures because I can't see them. It is very sad for me. I may have to break down and get a new blog. That makes me sad too, because I don't know how to preserve what is on this one.

A Great Subject:
I wanted to add a post on this historic day. President Obama was sworn in as the new President of the United States today. I wanted to let you all know I feel so blessed to be an American. I feel so blessed to live in such a great land and beautiful land with wonderful people who strive to make the world a better place. I love the beautiful flag that represent our amazing country. I feel so blessed to be an American.

Senior Carlie

2008-12-08T23:03:00.000-08:00

Isn't she beautiful.
Josh, a friend of Carlie's who graduated last year offered to take her senior pictures and he did an awesome job. We met him at the University of Redlands and he worked his magic. I'll show you more of "senior" Carlie later. This is the one that will be in the year book.

Tah Tah for now.

Blog Master

2008-11-21T05:38:00.000-08:00

Julie is my blog master and helps me with blog things. Apparently she also makes comments on my other daughters blogs in my name....and I wish it didn't make me laugh so much. So here's to ONE of my favorite daughters.

M & M Party

2008-11-16T17:01:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the M&M Party.
What does M&M stand for? Marshall Miner...and he's turning 16.
There was lots to do for the big event, starting with the M&M invitations.

First thing - we're off for a fancy shopping trip at the .99 store.

After lots of silliness the girls found the perfect presents and had a great time doing it. Notice Shelley is holding a Mr. Incredible pez dispenser...I think it was totally fun that Shelley joined us for our M&M weekend. She even made M&M cookies to help celebrate the big day.

After the fun shopping trip the girls got down to business and started writing a different girls name on each of the 150 hearts, then the hearts were taped onto skewer. Shelley brought her baby name book so we could use some of the crazy girl names from it.

After our 2AM heart attacking and sidewalk chalking we went to kidnap Marshall for breakfast at 7AM. I think the front yard looks awesome. We found out later that Brother Miner watched us do the whole thing and was so impressed with how quickly and quietly we worked our magic. The whole process took all of 8 minutes!

About a month ago I called Sister Miner and told her I had a weird question to ask her..."what time do your automatic sprinklers go off?" Then like school girls we giggled as I described the plans. So when we got to the door at 7AM on the dot, Sister Miner seemed to be as excited as the girls were.

The next set of plans was to go in Marshall's room (which his mom spent the day before cleaning) and shake his bed and say, "happy 16 birthday!!!!" They worked the plan exactly but he didn't move. So they said it again and this time he recognized the voices. The reason he didn't move the first time was because he thought it was his sister's friends being silly. So when he finally rolled over he was surprised, shocked and happy. We found out later that his alarm was set to go off any minute. What perfect timing.

The girls didn't want him to see the heart attacking stuff yet so they blind folded him and we were off to IHop for birthday breakfast.

The girls had all their presents wrapped so cute and he seemed surprised that there was more to the morning. He was such a great sport and posed with each gift.

Kellie got him some special presents and she was all giggly when he opened them. He got 2 ties, a John Deere ornament (a story about that later) and some "Curve" need I say more!!!!

The waitress was silly and gave him ice cream 'cause he was the birthday boy.

After our yummy breakfast we were off to the park. I can't believe they went on the spinny thing right after they had eaten. I could barely take the picture.

Kellie was showing us her old circus moves. Totally awesome!!

Of course when you get girls together you always need to take the classic chearleader pose. The funniest part of this picture was the set up. A little bit of pain but lots of laughter. These girls are all so much fun and super cute!

Marshall was so good at being willing to take lots of pictures. This was the poster the girls made and it says, "We're all so glad you are finally 16!"

This GQ pose was Shelley's idea. And let me say again, he was such a good sport.

After we dropped Marshall off Kellie went to a marching band compitition. She did well going on about 2 hours of sleep. After the band performed she got ready for more Birthday celebration. His mom had planned a surprise party for him before the stake dance. So this is him coming home to more surprises...and he thought the day was going to be a bit dull.

Happy 16 Birthday!

I love this picture of Emily and Kellie. They are so beautiful.

To conclude this totally fun day (I had so much fun helping plan and execute the day) the kids were off to the stake dance...which I hear was the best dance ever!!

Tagged 8 things...

2008-11-02T16:08:00.000-08:00

Caleb, my son-in-law tagged me about an "8 Things" Survery. I don't have time to finish all the aswers, I'll get back to it soon.

8 Favorite TV Shows--
Grey's Anatomy
Life
Sesame Street (when the girls were younger)
The Wonderful World of Disney (when it is on regular tv)
American Idol

8 Resturants--
IHop
BK Subs
Old Spaghetti Factory

Things that happened yesterday--
I saw lots of marching bands.
I saw an electrical pole that had fallen on a street due to a heavy rain down pour.
I took Kellie to a party.
I read from The Last Lecture book.
Ate a delicious funnel cake at the band compitition.
Laughing and being silly with the other band parents.
Having the band kids get together and buy all us parents pins that say,
"Band Boosters are better then Athletic supporters."
Did some laundry, dishes, and general house pick up .

Things I'm Looking Forward to--
Grandbabies
Seeing Holly, Caleb and Julie in December.
Kellie turning 16.
The weekend of the 15th...a little heart attacking going on and b-day fun.

Things I love about Fall--
The leaves changing colors.
The crispness in the air.
Carmel hot chocolate.
Taking my girls to Oak Glen.
Raking leaves and having the girls jump in the pile.
Making apple pie.
Perfect weather for cuddling.
The anticipation of Christmas.

Things on my wish list--

Takin' a walk down Kellie lane...

2008-11-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Meet Kellie...she is in band. She marches with a Baritone.

She gets to play pep music during the football games.
I like the saying...Why is the football team on the marching band field.

It is super great seeing Kellie do her thing during compititions. We were at one all day today and there will be one every Saturday in November. I love helping and I love getting to know the great kids in the band.

Kellie was deamed Freshman of the year for being the over all most wonderful freshman.

Kellie plays in the marching band, wind ensemble and also the advanced jazz band. In most of the groups she's in she plays the trumpet.

The wind ensemble did a concert outside last week. The setting was wonderful and I think Kellie looked beautiful.

So thank you for walking down the Kellie music lane.
I thought I would wrap things up with a beautiful picture of our great town of Redlands and grateful that is has great programs for my girls to be involved in.

Happy Sunday

2008-10-14T21:43:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday Carlie and Kellie totally rocked. Carlie gave a talk in Sacrament meeting that she had been asked the night before to give. She did a great job. She also gave a talk that same night at Stake Standards night and hit a home run. She spoke on modesty and included the "almost" and "sometimes" of modesty. She was happy that after the meeting people came up to her and asked for a copy of her talk. Kellie was asked at the last minute to conduct the music. She looked super cute and did a great job. Her face was pretty serious for awhile, but a certain someone in the audience did something to get her to smile. I love her smiling face...it is so sunshiny.

So what made it a happy Sunday you ask? That my little girls could share their talents, that those talents were appreciated and that they enjoyed doing it. So girls, thanks for not hiding your totally awesome lights under that bushel.

Kellie's Incredible Adventure

2008-10-14T21:43:00.000-07:00

Kellie and her friend Kaya went on an incrediable adventure to Disneyland in September.

Check out these babes they picked up at the park.

The new Toy Story Mania is super great and so much fun.

Sweet faces and sweet treats!

Thanks Kellie for letting me share in your incredible day.

Welcome to a Magical Fall

2008-10-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

Shelley and I went to a place that was magical...and boo-tiful!

This trip was an early Christmas present for Shelley.

She'll be too busy for a trip like this at Christmas,

'cause she'll have a cute baby boy.

I love this little baby dumbo, he is so soft and his ears are so floppy.

We had a hopper pass so we got to go to California Adventure.

Creativity is a gift...candy corns in a palm tree, HOW MUCH FUN IS THAT!

Candy corn cactus - I LOVE IT!!!

There was also candy corn corn stalks, candy corn grape vines,

candy corn signs, workshop area and so much more.

Totally SWEET!

Shelley is a super cute model for one of the many cute halloween hats.

Of course the costmes are super cute too.

This is a shout-out for baby Jett.

We made a wish at Snow White wishing well.

I know I'm not supposed to tell you my wish so I'll just give you a hint,

it has something to do with 5 cute girls.

We had a magical day

and how lucky I am that I got to spend it with Shelley.

What's new...Nascar!

2008-09-18T20:47:00.000-07:00

Say "hi" to team Nascar.

We all went on a RHS band fundraising adventure.

We even got fancy new outfits.

It was the Pepsi 500 held at the Auto Club Speedway

and the place is HUGE!

Our fancy outfits included ear plugs and for good reason,
it was so stickin' loud.
Before the race a jet engine vacuum drives around the 2 1/2 mile track.
Then the cars start doing their qualifing laps one at a time.
Both of these things are really loud.
Nothing compared to all the cars going at the same time.
It was soooo SUPER, STINKIN' LOUD!!!

We all had different jobs.
Rick's was to keep the security people in line.
Mine and Paul's job was to watch the people in the stands, answer questions, etc.
Shelley and Kellie were a van shuttle team.
They got to take people from the RV parking to the raceway.
(people actually stay the whole week to watch the cars drive around the track...)
Many of the people wondered why the younger girl (Shelley) was driving and lots of people thought Kellie was super cute. And boy did they get a Nascar education.
They even got a tip...for dealing with a man's drunk wife.

I learned that this is the position post.
The numbers on the left are the starting positions and the numbers on the right are the car numbers. I knew nothing about Nascar.
After working this race for 2 days I got quit the education.
For example, driving 160 mph is slow.
I really like the name Jimmie Johnson and guess who won the Pepsi 500,
oh it would be #48...JIMMIE JOHNSON!!!
The fastest he drove was 180 MPH.

The Auto Club Speedway is so huge.

The asphalt they used to build the speedway would pave a 2 lane highway

between here and Las Vegas. Wow.

This is definitly an adventure I wouldn't have gone on with out Kellie and the band,

but one I am super glad I went on.

Shelley and Rick are Here, But...

2008-08-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

Julie is still my favorite daughter in the whole wide world!!!

She is my blog master, and you should see the fees! But you know what, every single M&M is worth it. She and I are going to take a secret trip to a far away land, and no one will ever know when or where accept Julie and myself. It could be to Lego land, it could be to Djibouti, or it could be to YOUR HOUSE!!! Guess you'll just have to wait and see.

Anyways, the main point is, Julie Rocks!!!

Did someone order a Papa Meal?

2008-07-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

Carlie got a job at Baker's. What does her apron say you ask?

'Our breakfast choices will wake you up.'

She got a job so she can earn money for New York next spring and college next fall.

This was her first day on the job.

Since that day she is now

an expert shake maker, register pro, drink wiz and snappy table buser.

Congratulations Carlie!

This is so silly

2008-07-06T22:33:00.000-07:00

I feel a little silly putting pictures of myself on my blog.

But then I got to thinkin'...

my girls at BYU don't get to see the every day mom.

So here is a few days in the life of Joelle.

Holly, Shelley, Julie, Carlie and Kellie's mom.

Daddy and I on our 24th wedding anniversary.

We cleaned the temple that morning

and then went on date to Claim Jumpers.

Dad is soooo HOT!

I love yellow and I love hats.

It also appears that I love glasses too.

One pair is for the sun and one pair are my old lady reading glasses.

This is me hanging a fender. I put the bumper and apron on later.

(Do you like my car talk?!)

This is me going to Liz's wedding.

Do you feel the magic?

2008-07-06T21:47:00.000-07:00

I feel the magic every time I go to Disneyland.

Enjoy the ride with Holly and I.

Mint Julip and jazz is always magical.

I love the parades!

Are these flowers sprinkles with Pixie Dust?

Because the flowers are always so beautiful.

This is Holly's shout-out to Caleb.

Pizza Port is magicly yummy.

Holly is pregnant so we saved the big rides for another time and went on the fun rides instead. Holly...watch out for Monstro.

Disneyland has really cool hats.

Holly loves Zach and friends from High School Musical.

Did you know the show was filmed at Grandma Chatfield's high school?

Go Wild Cats!

This one's for you Shelley.

Do you think we'll get to feel the magic again someday....

OH YEA BABY!!!!!!

I feel the earth move under my feet...

2008-06-01T22:13:00.000-07:00

Do you know that song? Well I know the song and I literally just felt the earth move under my feet. Earthquakes are so amazing. I know that really bad things can happen because of earthquakes, but when they are just little ground shakers, it is always a thrill for me.

I haven't blogged for a long while, but things are still happening. We went to Carlie's Friends concert with the RHS Chamber Singers and she did a really great job. The next night was Kellie's band concert. She is in Wind Ensemble and they did great. But I really loved her in the advanced Jazz band group. They really can swing. Music lifts my soul.

I have some super great news...Paul and I are going to be grandparents in December. Holly told us she was pregnant after Shelley's graduation events. Then a week or so later Shelley told us she was pregnant. Can you believe our first 2 grandbabies will be here a week apart. We, of course, are so excited. We are thrilled to become grandparents, but more excited because we know our daughters will be great mothers. So here's to the very lucky babies.

Congratulations to Julie for being her ward chorister and FHE Mom. She too, will be a great mom!

There are only 9 more days of school. Friday was the last day of seminary. This school year has buzzed by. The really weird thing is that Carlie will be a senior next year.

I am fixing the Ford Contour. I am replacing the front end. I am just waiting for some of the pieces to be painted, then I will be able to put it back together. When that is done, I will be able to start working on my motorcycle. I am so jazzed.

I love my life, even the hard stuff. I love my family. They are the most amazing people I know.

Have I Told You Lately...

2008-05-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

...that Julie is the best? Because she is. In fact, she is better than all my other daughters combined! And that's really saying something. I mean, between her new haircut, her amazing reading skills, and her delightful personality, she definitely takes the cake. Which reminds me. I think that Holly and Shelley should give Julie lots of treats and candies. She really deserves it.

How could you deny a face like that? Overall, Julie is wonderful, and if I had a wish, then it would be a happy happy Julie to you from me!

Spring on Dale Lane

2008-04-27T19:38:00.001-07:00

Spring is in the air.

The official beginning of Spring on Dale Lane is when the Easter baskets come out and the Mickey Easter egg goes up.

Another fun sign of Spring is when the garden goes in.

Paul does a great job of taking care of the roses. This bush was given to me when one of my daughters was born.

This is my first spring planting Sweet Peas.
They smell like a gift straight from heaven.

I call these little joy bringers. The real name is Johnny Jump Ups.

They jump up every spring and are little treasures.

This is a pink hibiscus called Lipstick.

I thought it would be perfect at a house full of girls.

The little joy bringers jump all over.

The Snap Dragons this year have been magical.

I love Spring.

What a beautiful new beginning to a wonderful time filled with such love and hope.

A SUPER DAY at BYU

2008-04-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are super happy folks.
We couldn't be more delighted for Rick and Shelley.
Graduation day is here and we are just super giddy.
And, just in case you don't know this...Paul is super cute!

I don't think I can say this enough.

Steve and Cindy are some of the greatest people we know.

And they have a great son too!

Go Cougars!

Rick is looking very collegiate here.
I wonder what he's hiding up his sleeves. Could there be a sword?

Grandma Chatfield is a real super trooper to come and support these super great kids.

Something about the BYU graduation air made lots of people frisky.

What did I tell you about the frisky business!!
Aren't they just so cute.

Anytime the sisters can get together is a great time.

It was sad to not have Carlie and Kellie with us,

but they were at home performing in their school play Wild Oats.

(A different post of course.)

On the first day of the graduation gatherings, Elder Bednar was the guest speaker. It was wonderful to hear his inspiring words. He spoke about our ever changing world. And even though these kids are graduating after learning so much great stuff, their learning should not stop. We should all have a lifetime of learning, something we should be willing to do and be exciting about.
Wendy and Russ were able to be with us because they were picking up Brittany from BYU.
So perfect timing to share in this great event. Plus they are both BYU Alums.
And of course, BYU is where they met and fell in love.....aaahhhhhh!!

These are some great people that helped with Shelley's and Rick's college success.
Rick and Shelley wanted their celebritory meal to be at IHOP.
The food was yummy. I had the chocolate chip pancakes. It's tradition.

This is my mom Judi. She joined us for the festivities.
Shelley is her first grandchild to graduate college.
I think Julie is so cute.

What a super exciting day!!! Congratulations to Rick and Shelley.
They worked hard and did a great job of supporting each other.
They have been married 2 1/2 years.
They are super smart, super cute and will be super great adults.

Books and Talent

2008-04-10T20:57:00.000-07:00

Yea!!! I finally got these pictures on my blog. Enjoy these special treats!

This is what happens when you share your enthusiasm with folks. All of these were gifts to me and I am so thankful for special people.

This card was made by Milissa from work. I introduced her to "THE" books. Milissa is so very talented. She hand cut this Edward . I love his eyes, they are brads. Also his button is a pearl button. How cute is he?! She gave me this card as a thank you for introducing "the books". The day she gave me the card, she also showed me her new tattoo. It looks just like this Edward.

Milissa also gave me this bookmark. This is the front of the bookmark. I don't know how to turn the picture around, sorry. This is my initial and all the swirls are hand drawn. Such beautiful art.

This is the back side of the bookmark. This is the quote from the front of New Moon.

This was a surprise from a gal I work with named Bekka. I introduced her to the books and she LOVES them!!! Now she and I have matching braclets.

You know sometimes when you get that feeling...

2008-03-12T20:51:00.000-07:00

Kellie had a concert tonight at REV. I took her down Citrus and dropped her off on the side of the school. I normally go back the same way...but I got a feeling. I thought it would be nice to drive past the temple. So I went home on Highland. I turned down Center and saw a car accident that had just happened. Sadly it was Amy Elkins with all of her children. I stopped and was able to take care of the children while Amy dealt with all the activity. The accident happened right in front of the Rozzi's home. Come to find someone had just dropped off Hannah and was pulling out....into Amy.

So what is good about today? So many things!

Mile War 97.5

Is it good for the sun to shine?

2008-03-11T16:42:00.000-07:00

I asked a Mission President what he thought about girls writing missionaries. His reply was, "Is it good for the sun to shine?" I took that answer as a great big YES. I know I love getting mail, the kind we refer to now as snail mail. Looking in the mail box and seeing that someone took the time to write me a little note to say hello is just amazing for me.

So for those of you that know Elder Daniel Doria, here is his MTC address. It should be good for another 2 months.

Elder Daniel Doria
MTC Mailbox #196
Mex-Mexs 0421
2005 N. 900 E.
Provo, UT 84604-1793

Remember, you have the power to make the sun shine.

Mile War

2008-03-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

So, I thought I would let the 'mile war' party planner know that this should be the 100 mile week.

Party On!!!!!!!!

Mile War 87.5+5=92.5

Cellos and Rock & Roll

2008-03-05T16:58:00.001-08:00

Last night Kellie had a Wind Ensemble concert at Clock Auditorium. It is still a little weird to think that my youngest is rockin' out with her trumpet during a high school event. She looks so beautiful in her dress. ( I know, I know, a picture would be perfect right now.) While they were playing the last song a huge smile just jumped onto my face. It was soooo great! The song was so fun and so well played. I am so happy for Kellie that she gets to be part of something wonderful and that she takes me along for the ride.

The second half of the concert the U of R Wind Ensemble played. They did some artsy music which is good. But my favorite was a saxaphone quartet. It was so awesome. I love the saxs, and to have 4 going at the same time, playing such great music was...so SWEEEEET! After that song there were some more fun music. I just love that these kids work hard and can do this great thing with their instruments. (Actually I get a little emotional about it.) For the last song a celliest joined the Ensemble. Oh...my...goodness. Have you ever seen anyone play rock & roll on a cello. This guy was smokin'. His fingers were moving so fast and his bow was going crazy. The song was great, but the best part was watching this guy do his thing.

Mile war +5

Always be grateful for elbows!

2008-03-02T20:38:00.000-08:00

Our neighbor boy was baptized tonight. He was excited about everything. He was so excited to have some of his church buddies come. Every time one would come in he would announce, "Hey, another one of my friends came." He went around hugging everyone. After we sang the opening song he clapped. Everything was just so exciting. Daddy conducted and I was asked to give the talk on baptism.

Yesterday was the Relief Society Conference for the stake. The workshops were so great. I went to 3 of the workshops. One was done by the fabulous Kathy Haimson. She spoke about the book that President Hinckley's daughter wrote (I don't remember the name, but it's new) which talks about 'a change of heart'. She also spoke about a book called Ida B. It is a story about how a girl's heart was changed. It is a children's book, but we could all benifit from it.

The next was on Gratitude. It was nice to reflect on the things I am grateful for. The speaker told us the first thing she can remember being truly grateful for was her elbows. She was kneeling down during family prayer and realized how hard it would be to pray if she couldn't bend her arms. She went on to tell us many the things we wouldn't be able to do if we didn't have elbows. Great story.

The last workshop was given by Sister Carlson, the stake president's wife. She spoke about communication in marriage. She talked about a book called, 'The 5 Love Languages.' I have heard about this book for about 6 months, so I decided it was time to get it. It is a great book and I highly recommend it.

It has been super windy today and has added a bunch of excitement to the day. We have had so much weather this year, lots of rain and wind. It has been really fun.

Welcome to March!

Mile War 79+2.5=82.5

What's new?

2008-02-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

So what's new you ask? We have had glorious ran the last few weeks. Our rain total is double what we got last year. Sweet!

I finally finished 'The Fellowship of the Ring' last week. I am going to take a break before I jump into the 2nd book in the trilogy. I have also finished the Book of Mormon. I have started again, this time using the BofM student manual religion 121 and 122. I am having so much fun with it. I also started 'The Screwtape Letters' by C.S. Lewis. I bought the book awhile ago and am excited to get into it. I have a feeling it is one of those books you have to read twice in a row. Who has read it? What did you think about it?

Our YM/YW had a Couth night this week. We invited the 4th ward. It quadrupled our regular numbers. I believe the night was a success. So I won't be responsible for another one until October. I want to do something kinda wacky. But always remember, "plan with a purpose". Is 'wacky' a purpose?

I have resigned my post as the Pinecone Book club instructor at work. March will be my last month. It has been fun and I have learned a bunch, but after 1 1/2 years it is time to pass the torch to someone who doesn't have YW's that night and who doesn't have a husband for a Bishop.

The vegetable garden gets started this weekend. It's a small one, but remember, we weren't told to have a big one, we were just told to have one. So here is to radishes, corn, strawberries, tomatoes, pumpkin, zucchini, raspberries and sugar snap peas, at least for now.

Mile War 66.5+10+12.5=79

120/80

2008-02-17T12:32:00.000-08:00

So, not very often can I say that there is something perfect about me. I went to give blood yesterday at the stake blood drive and my blood pressure is perfect.

The blood drive was very informative. I found out that our cute friend Susan Dyer is getting married in April. What a very lucky guy he is. I hope he knows it. I also saw Chelsea Lovett. She is home from Hawaii for a time. On the way home I saw the coolest thing of all. One of the little Glauser boys was driving their big van. I know a few of my daughters wanted to marry him. So the good news is, if he is driving, he is dating age. So good luck girls.

The youth fireside is at our house tonight. I am so excited. Happy Sunday!

Mile war 55+7.5+4=66.5

Things are going to start happenin' now

2008-02-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

Carlie had some really great news yesterday. Mr. Vanhooven (sp) announced to his US History class that Carlie got the highest grade in the class on the hardest test of the year!! She was a little jazzed about that. Then, Carlie and Kellie found out they got a part in the spring show. They find out today what parts. The show is Wild Oats. I am happy for them, but this means with Chamber Singers stuff and jazz band, oh, and let's not forget church stuff, things will really start to happen around here.

I have a bit of sad news. I have discovered that walking during seminary, running on the tredmill after seminary and working on the floor at CJ's is not a great combination for my left ankle. So, I am pretty sure the tredmill will only happen a few times a week. This will postpone surgery on the ankle for awhile, which I think is a good thing.

Just a little weather 'shout-out' for today. How does 85 degrees sound?

Mile war 52.5+2.5=55

Okay, what's up with touching the mic

2008-02-10T19:06:00.000-08:00

Today was a great Sunday. Daniel Doria's mission farewell was today. Andrew Doria sang and did a beautiful job. He has such a great tenor voice. Then little brother got up and gave a great talk. It was hard for me to focus 100% 'cause I kept remembering him running around his house when he was a youngin' in diapers. He is all grown up now. He cried a little and I was sad Holly wasn't here. I know how she loves her Daniel. My only beef with his talk is he kept touching the mic. No joke. It was probably every 5th word. I know I am not the perfect speaker. That would, umm, keeps popping up just about as often as Daniel touched the mic. We all have things, don't we? Mexico City will be a better place in soon.

After sacrament I went upstairs to set up for YW and found 3 YM hiding from their new Sunday School teacher. So they helped me set up and then we had our own Sunday School lesson. We actually had a good talk. The YW lesson was next and cute Tatum's mommy taught it. The girls just love her and she is so good to them.

I could tell you more about the spirit of the day, but then I'll just get all mushy and cry or something. So just know, today has been great.

After church we pulled out some of the old albums. We have listened to Manhatten Transfer, Jim Croce, My Fair Lady, etc. Just a musical feast :-)

Mile war 48.5+4=52.5

Tagged...

2008-02-06T16:32:00.000-08:00

Julie 'tagged' me with some questions. I guess once you answer them you are suppossed to tag 3 other people. I am a pretty private person, and I know these are suppossed to be lite hearted and fun. I will try not to get too serious with my answers. So Julie, here are the answers...

Where was I 10 years ago:
I was 33 years old, living in Redlands, CA. I was YW Pres. All my girls were home and life was nearly perfect.

5 things on my to-do list:
- Organize my office
- plant flowers in the back yard
- finish reading Lord of the Rings ( I am 3/4 done with the 1st book)
-start doing tummy crunches
-clean the oven

5 snacks I enjoy:
- Ruffles with onion dip
- chocolate chip cookie dough
- brownie mix
- popcorn
- red seedless grapes

3 bad habits:
-saying 'like' too often
- fingerspelling when people are talking
- not getting the dinner menu done for the month

5 places I have lived:
- Houston, TX (2 years) I got baptized in Houston
- Bellflower, CA (2 years) We owned a red bunny, a new zealand red
- Provo, UT (I played, worked and took a sign-language class)
- Riverside, CA (I spent my teenage years there)
- Redlands, CA (We have moved 3 times in Redlands)

5 jobs I've had:
- California Ceramics in Riverside(we deisigned decals and put them on mugs, plates, t-shirts etc. That is where we got the Ziggy pillowcases)
- I can't remember the name of the place in Riverside where I assembles breathing curcuits for emergency vehicles like helicopters, ambulences, etc. I was the fastest assembler and the highest paid. When I moved to BYU and left that job, the owner called me and asked me to come back. He would pay to get me and my stuff home and give me a raise. What an offer, but I stayed and played and BYU. When I came back from Provo and I went back to work there until I was 6 mon. pregnant with Holly. I remember several times on my way to work having to pull over on the freeway and loose my cheerios. I started wearing ponytails so my hair wouldn't get too yucky.
- Lulu's in Orem, Utah. It was a home decor place
- Fiesta Village in Colton. I managed a waterpark and was a lifegaurd
- Collective Journey Scrapbooking specialist (the last word is a joke)

5 things people don't know about me:
- I played the violin
- I taught myself how to play some hymns on the piano
- I sang with Bart's band
- I am shy
- I love nature, mountians, ocean, etc

What would I do if I suddenly became a billionaire:

-of course get rid of all family debt. Of course help the world, all that good stuff. But one thing I would love to do (my girls are going to laugh)I would love to open a place where high school students could come and work, when ever their busy schedules would permit. Since they all have to earn money for school trips, pay for things their families can't afford, etc. This would be a place where they could come and get tutoring if they need a help. Part of their work would be to take piano lessons. I don't know what the actual work would be, but probably something like assembly work, etc. Something that wouldn't take a bunch of training. The place would be near the high school so they could walk if need be.

Okay, probably way too much info. But there you have it. No tagging for me.

Mile war 41.5+7=48.5

I love "LOVE" month

2008-02-02T15:10:00.000-08:00

I think February is so great. Some people think Valentine's day is for card companies to make money. I am sure it is a big month for them. Others say they don't want somebody telling them when to tell their Sweetie's they love them. For me it is a chance to stop and remember how lucky I am to have wonderful people in my life and to let them know how much I love them.

Great news about Trig. Carlie currently has an A in Trig. I am so happy for her.

Yesterday was Julie's 1/2 birthday. Yippee for Julie.

I am not getting through the Lord of the Rings books as fast as the other book I have recently read. But I am determined to get through them. Aunt Janie is loving the Vampire books. She came over and got book 3 from me yesterday. And to think all the times she made fun of me. :-)

Happy love month.

mile war 35+2.5+4=41.5

The sweet sound of jazz

2008-01-31T18:37:00.000-08:00

My youngest daughter is a freshman in High School. She auditioned for the jazz band. Not only did she get in, she made it into Advanced Jazz band. How sweet is that. She loves to play jazz. She has also decided to become a music major so she can be a music teacher. She plays the trumpet now and is working on clarinet, percussion and piano. This summer she plans to borrow a bunch of instruments so she can become familiar with as many as she can get her hands on. What a fun goal. So let the music play...

Mile War 30+5=35

The best thing to do...

2008-01-28T09:07:00.000-08:00

This is a sad and wonderful day. Sad for all of us because we will miss our Beloved Prophet. Wonderful because I can just picture President Hinkley hugging and kissing his sweet wife whom he has missed. The best way to honor this amazing servant is to live like he counseled us to live. That's the best thing I can think of to do today.

Elder Brady got transfered today...do you remember when he was playing Pit with us? We will miss him, but wish him well in Corona.

Daddy is feeling better, but not great yet. So girls, please send some prayers out for him.

Life is great and I love all the rain we are getting.

Mile war 25+5=30

Mile War

2008-01-23T09:02:00.000-08:00

My son in law and I were talking about tredmills and excercise. From that conversation came the "mile war". I walk in the morning during seminary for 2.5 miles. On a good day I will come home and run 2.5 miles on the tredmill. It is great for my body, but most helpful to my brain. So my little post today will be...I am grateful for a body that works.

Mile War 15+4+5=24

Onto the Lord of the Rings

2008-01-20T21:51:00.000-08:00

I finsihed the Tristen and Isolde series. The movie is good but the ending is so different from the books. In the books, after many trials and pain, they live happily ever after. I am going to start The Lord of the Rings series next. I thought it would be a good thing to read since my husband and at least one of my sons-in-law likes them. Caleb, do you like them?

Tonight was a youth fireside. The super cute Amy and Paul Fransen spoke on the word of wisdom. Amy spoke about the health of the soul and Dr. Paul spoke about the blood and guts aspect. He had some very effective stories to tell about the importance of seat belts, etc. We used the chocolate fountain to top off the evening. Maybe not a good follow up from the theme of the evening, but very tasty and a big hit. We were suppossed to have the fireside at our house but daddy is very sick.

Good thing for dad it is a 4 day weekend. He has spent the time in bed with a 103' temp. He was so sick he couldn't even read. Now you know that is really sick. I hope tomorrow his fever will break and he will be on the mend.

Last night was the stake dance. Our stake was in charge. They had a raffle for an Ipod. Can you believe it? Josh Ryan won it. Let's just say Cray Carlson was involved. That explains it.

Not much else to report on. So loves and kisses to all.

Mile war 15 miles

Whispy Clouds

2008-01-14T17:14:00.000-08:00

Today was one of those days where you say to yourself, could this day be any better? I'll paint you a mental picture. A light breeze, white whispy clouds painted across blue sky, the green hills falling along the horizon and a comfortable 75 degrees. Did you enjoy that picture? I love living in Redlands.

The other day we had similar weather, but the wind was crazy. I thought for sure some trees would have blown down it was so hard. We live where there are a bunch of palm trees. The trees all look like they are wearing skirts. I think it looks so cool when one of the palm trees drops their skirts. We just had some rain, and then this crazy wind. It is perfect skirt dropping conditions. So a bunch of big skirts dropped. Silly me, I should have taken a picture, sorry.

Our master dream bathroom was great except for one thing. The water was cold. So for those of you who have complained about the cold shower, no need to fret. The warm water is here!!!!! Daddy took the heat protector thing out of the handle and now there is glorious warm water...even HOT water if you want. If you are ever in town, stop on in and take a nice warm shower in the dream bathroom.

Q&A time. Does anyone have a great mac and cheese recipe?

Happy finals week to Kellie and Carlie.

Mile war - 2.5 for today. Total 10 miles.

Pounding heart

2008-01-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

My heart is still pounding from reading the Vampire books. I started them last Sunday and I finished the 3rd one last night about 1AM. I have asked Carlie to read the last few chapters of book 3 so I can talk to someone about it. She knows a little of the story because I have been filling the girls in as I have read. (I am pretty sure they were just being kind in listening)

Aunt Wendy gave me the first book, so I called her and talked with her about it. She was really sad when she finished reading the books, so she looked up the website and read the "deleated scenes". (Rick and Caleb...it includes pictures of really cool cars.) She found out that there is another book coming out this summer. I am thrilled. She also learned the same author is writing a book from the male love interest view point. How cool is that! Looking up the website wasn't good enough for Aunt Wendy, so she read them again. I would do the same, but I think I will take a break from them, my heart is still racing from the last time I read them. I don't think my heart can handle it....I know, I am such a dork.

I heard that, and am embarressed to say, that there is a 3 book series of Tristen & Isole. I will take a shot at those, then go back to the vampires.

Last night Kellie had a friend over and I was about 50 pages from the end of the book. She and her friend were hanging out in the living room doing a project and listening to music. I could tell my face was all red from what I was reading. So I went into Kellie's room, when I came out Carlie asked if I was okay because I felt really hot. I told her I had just expereinced a werewolf and vampire fight. She laughed, but I really felt like my breath was gone and very drained.

So my recommendation for these books are....READ THEM!

My mile war miles stand at 7.5 for the week. There was no tredmill action this week, I was too busy reading. Just so you know I also did laundry, went to the temple, cooked meals, and even mopped the floors. So I did participate in life, but took every free minute and read. Plus I didn't get much sleep during the week.

It is funny that some people's comments on these books are negative. They say we shouldn't be teaching our children these things. Well, I think I covered the part with my girls that, it is wrong to date vampires and werewolves. So just in case you girls have forgotten that, here is your reminder.

Yea for good books! (this comment dedicated to Julie)

Potter - you say it like water

2008-01-05T21:26:00.000-08:00

I have done what most of you did oh so long ago...finished all the Harry Potter books. My family didn't want me to read book 6 until book 7 came out. I finally read them. It is fun to be able to discuss them with people. Like, I know Julie thought the end of 7 was a little hokey. I enjoyed it. I am sad that Harry and Snape didn't get to have a moment like Harry did with Albus after they all died. Now that Harry understands what Snape did for him, it would have been great for them to have a little chat. I think I need to go back and read the last 100 pages again though. I am sure I missed some of the detail 'cause I was in a hurry to see what happened. I am very sad about Doby too. That is actually the time I cried the most. I loved how she explained the moment when Harry realized he needed to die. When I was reading I asked Carlie (who is REALLY into it) what happens to the dragon that helped them out of the bank. She said that is so not important. But me being an animal lover, I would love to know more about the nearly blind dragon. I hope she found her family and all is well with her. Yes, I know, I am such a dork.

My sister gave me the new Vampire books. So I think that will be my next casual reading. Have any of you read it yet? Jackie Hill loves them and read all 3 in a week. Stephanie thinks they are way too racey. Neither of these opinions surprise me.

Julie left today. I was glad I got to take her to the airport. It is hard to let her go. All the girls do this, but since the other girls weren't home, Julie brought such a balance to Carlie and Kellie. I am very grateful that she came home. I told the girls she may not be back for an extended visit until Thanksgiving. That is weird to think about. I am glad she was sad to leave and happy that she wanted to go back to Provo. I love that she loves her college life.

Carlie, Kellie and I went to Ontario Mills after we took Julie to the airport. It was the funniest thing. We are not big shoppers, not a bunch of entertainment there. So we walked all the way around it. Went into a few stores, ate lunch and then went home.

Many say how 'this' Christmas was the best ever. I plan on doing things different next year so I will be able to say that. This Christmas break was very good, but I can do better. So add that to my New Year's Resolutions.

We saw a car liscene plate cover that was so great today;
Just a little bit of pixie dust and here we goooo!

Farewell to Harry and hello vampires.

Mile war -
2.5 miles for Thurs
2.5 miles Friday
Total for 2008 - 7.5

Wow, I had no idea...

2008-01-02T17:14:00.000-08:00

I had no idea I was so good with words. Oh wait, I'm not. Julie is such a wit. The post before this one did make me laugh. Happy New Year...more to come later. For those participating in the "mile war" I have 2.5, thank you very much!

Julie is GREAT!!!

2007-12-30T23:25:00.001-08:00

It is so nice to have Julie home. She is the best daughter a parent could ask for! When I look at her I can't even remember my other daughters names. If I look at her too long, I don't even remember I have other daughters! Who needs them when there is the culmination of joy and wonder in one perfect incarnation of beauty? You know, I can't think of the last time I was so elated. Wait, yes I can! It was when Julie came home for Thanksgiving break! When she grows up and gets married and has a family of her own, I hope she lives right here In Redlands so that I can spoil her children, and none of my other grandchildren. Have I mentioned that Julie is the BEST!!!

Cheers!

CTF

2007-11-29T22:18:00.000-08:00

The clown is gone. The CTF clown is gone and they have replaced it with a story book. Kellie is having fun with rehearsals. Carlie is working hard and realizing that being a leader is sometimes harder then it looks.

Dad has had his first tithing settlement appointments and all seem to be going well. I have a new calling. I am the 2nd counselor in the YW. I am happy to be put in and support the President. She hasn't been getting much of that. I will miss teaching my Sunday School class. Sister Whiting is taking over. She is so great and so smart. The youth will be blessed to have her as their teacher.

This weekend is the Redlands Christmas parade. This activity will be the last marching band gig for the year for Kellie. Always a bitter sweet time. You are happy to have some extra time and sad to not see your good friends all the time. I think she is trying out for jazz band. Of course she will rock the house!!!

Carlie gets to be in the parade for CTF. She will have her clowns in tip top shape and I am sure they will be fun. CTF is the following weekend. Same weekend as the creche. So the next couple of weeks will be slow and boring as usual. :-)

News Update. Stacy Rendler had another baby last month. Michele and I are doing lunch tomorrow. She is a great kid.

Today was 'put up the Christmas decorations' day. It is always fun to take down the old and put up the new. Yea for Christmas!!!! I, of course, decorated with Donny singing to me in the background. Did any of you want a copy??

The tredmill action continues. It is "30" week. I am doing okay, but I may have next week be 30 week too. Just to make "35" week a little easier. Have I said, thank heaven for my Ipod. It makes the time just fly by.

Yippeeeeee for December!!!!

Bunches of Blessings

2007-11-22T22:32:00.000-08:00

Today is Thanksgiving. All of our girls are home. Holly, Shelley and Julie came home from BYU. Rick and Caleb, my 2 favorite sons-in-law, are home too. Happy Thanksgiving to Paul and I. (I will post the thanksgiving pictures tomorrow.)

Julie taught me how to add pictures to my blog. So I thought I would add some pictures that we took at BYU in 2005. I love these pictures. It was such a beautiful day in Provo.

When the girls are together it is just like heaven. They love eachother and love being silly with eachother. Kellie is working on her booty pose.

Our son-in-law Rick was standing near while we were taking these pictures and he was bustin' up. This was before Rick and Shelley were married. I am glad after this picture taking time he was still willing to marry Shelley.

Each of these girls are such an inspiration to be. They are such an individual force, but when they are together they are amazing. I feel so blessed to know them and I feel humbled that Heavenly Father has trusted them to Paul and I. Happy Thanksgiving and yea for bunches of blessings.

Daniel Doria

2007-11-18T14:36:00.000-08:00

Let's just say Mexico City South, Mexico and Daniel go together. He called us about 5 minutes after he opened his call. He is so excited. He doesn't leave until Feb. I bet they are giving his shoulder a little more time to heal after his surgery before he reports. He will be a charmer in Mexico City.

A side note. Adriana Doria had her baby a few weeks ago. So that makes 2 for her. She and her husband look so cute as a little family.

Serene is engaged to Rhonda Jolley's brother. There is no date yet.

Melissa Humphries was due last Sunday. She had a baby boy Tuesday and was at church for the entire block today. I totally want that woman on my Pioneer Trek team. You go girl!!!!

Hooray!!! for lots of happy news.

Islands and Tredmills

2007-11-18T14:19:00.000-08:00

Daddy got an Island gift card about 3 years ago. We finally used it. We went to see Kellie in a band compition in MoVal and then went to Riverside to Islands. It was fun, but most of the fun is because daddy is so cute and it was delightful to spend time with him.

So last week I started running on the tredmill. I walk for 45 minutes with Aunt Janie during seminary. Then I run for 20 minutes on the tredmill. I am going to add 5 minutes each week until I hit 45 minutes. After that I will probably take to the streets and see how I do. I am having so much fun. The first couple of days I walked a little funny afterwards and wouldn't you know I had to work the floor those days too. Just remember, no pain, no gain. My final comment on this is....Yippee for ipods. It makes the running time fly.

I got released today from Sunday School. I don't have a new calling yet, but I will really miss the youth. It is a good thing I take most of them to school every seminary morning. The are all awesome.

So here's to Islands and Tredmills!

Scott Lee Walker

2007-11-11T17:33:00.000-08:00

Today was Stake Conference. It is always great. Of course we heard some lawyer stories from President Haws. President Bascom just makes it sound so exciting to live the gospel. I did not know that he got his degree in world religions; He is teaching that now at Colton High School. Some of the ladies children at my work have taken his class and they have loved it.
Anyway, the man who teaches world religion at BYU is a convert. He was a Presbertarian preacher and wrote a book about the differences between his religion and the Mormon faith. While writing the book he was converted. He never finished that book, but gained a testimony from reading 'THE' book. The Book of Mormon is so great!!!! President Carlson is wonderful. He is such a great example of a what a Priesthood leader should be.

Speaking of priesthood in action...My cute brother was made a high priest today. He asked daddy to do the advancement. It was thrilling. Uncle Scott is such a good man. Daddy said he got shivers during the blessing. Very cool.

While we were there Daniel Doria was made an Elder. His call is coming this week, some time. Yes, I will let you all know. He is such a cutie. Another happy surprise is Scott Larson was made an Elder. He looks great.

There is no school tomorrow. Thank you to all the Veterans who have served our country so willingly. Kellie has a band compition. It was moved because of the fire days. I am excited to see Kellie do her thing. I will take pictures and maybe they'll show up on this blog.

RHS had it last game this weekend. It was fun seeing Kellie do the half time show. It was also great to see Micheal Lambert be a football star. Sadly, I missed seeing Carlie sing with Chambers.

Yea, for my cute brother!! Yea, for the truth, and what makes us really happy.

Sunday Treats

2007-10-28T22:47:00.000-07:00

Papa & Sister Ochs spoke today in sacrament meeting. It is always great to see and hear them. The special music was Andrew Doria. I love his tenor voice. On top of all that excitement Russell, Sara and new baby Tyler came to hear the Ochs speak. They were also at the ward party last night. Do you want to know what baby Tyler looks like? Picture Papa Ochs...now you know. Same hair line and everything :-) Nancy Stubbs came to the trunk-or-treating. She said she didn't realized people got so fancy. So she will go really big next year. The car next to us had brains....but we had a skull with dancing flowers. (Thanks for sharing Julie) So yea!!!! for the Sunday treats...Papa Ochs, Baby Tyler, Andrew's song, family, my Sunday School class and on and on.

PS. Here's to feeling a little better too!

Service Rocks!!!

2007-10-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today I got to serve 85 missionaries lunch. Afterwards they all sang as a thank you, Armies of Heleman. Then they quoted something by Joseph Smith. Picture me with a big goofy smile and tears running down my face. What a very awesome moment.

After being home an hour I got to go to a baptism and lead the music. Daddy got to do the baptizing.

The day has already been great. But oh yes, ther is more. Off to the ward party we go. To see all the cute little childrens. Who will have tears running down his face during the costume parade???

Throw in some house cleaning, Knotts scary farm for Kellie and friends and call it good.

Hip hip hooray for service day.

Bingo Wings

2007-10-26T22:32:00.000-07:00

Some very fun costumers came into the store. We were having a great time visiting. They are from England. The gave me a new name for 'Relief Society Arms'. In England, at least in their neighborhood, they call them 'Bingo Wings', because the ladies that play bingo have the wiggly arms. From now on, I will refer to wiggly arms as Bingo Wings. It sounds way better if you say it with an English accent. Give it a try, it's fun.

We got invited to 2 parties tonight and went to neither. Very sad. I did take pumpkin cookies and gave hugs along with my 'sorry we can't come'. Jackie Hill showed me some really cool salad tongs that looked like skeleton hands. Her good buddy Sarah Hull gave them to her. So I am certain the Hill party is great and spooky!!

You can still taste smoke in the air. You couldn't really see any blue sky today. The sun rises and sun sets are kind of spooky and cool. With all the smoke it makes the sun super red with lines through it. I should try and take a picture with our new digital camera.

Yes, you heard right. We got a new camera. I will learn how to use it and hopefully start putting pictures on my blog. Any pictures of mine will pale in comparison to Sarah's. Aren't hers just too wonderful. I tear up with almost each picture. They are just too yummy.

In about 2 weeks you will be able to start talking about Harry Potter 6 and 7. Yes, I know I am a freak. Yes, I know the rest of the world finished 7 the day after it came out. With that said, I have started and it won't be long...give me about 2 weeks.

School's out for summer.......

2007-10-24T21:01:00.001-07:00

Oh wait, that is the wrong song. School is actually out for 2 days. We are on official fire days. The church parking lot is all new and black. It reminds me of when you drive on fresh snow and yours are the only tracks. Well instead of snow is was ash. So kind of a cool sight during this very bad situation. Oh by the way, Carlie and Kellie are NOT sad school is out. Although Kellie did not get to have her concert tonight. So sad.

On my way home from work tonight I counted 10 planes in the sky. I got a bit of a sense of what war time would be like. It is very interesting to see these big planes and helicopters do a water drop and turn around to get more water. one of the models of planes can do a fill in 30 seconds. Amazing! They get the water from the nearest, safest water spot available. Some helicopters are getting their water from golf course ponds.

With the new found freedom Kellie is staying with some friends tonight. Carlie and dad are having fun at dad's school doing stuff. Who knows what fun tomorrow will bring. As long as none of us breath in too deeply.

Girls, could one of you send this site to Sarah? She was my inspiration (plus you girls of course) for doing a blog. Thanks, you guys rock!

Be safe, count your blessings and say lots of prayers for the almost million people who have been evacuated from their homes.

Fires are HOT!!

2007-10-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

Just in case you haven't heard... Southern California is on fire. Redlands is not on fire but all around us is. It is not snowing snowflakes here, it is snowing burnt flakes. (I'm not sure what else to call them.) It isn't so bad that they have closed our schools like they did a few years ago when San Bernardino was on fire. I have a feeling we could get to that point. Our tempatures for the next 2 days is going to be between 90' to 100'. Add some Santa Ana winds and you have an amazing blaze that will cover a bunch of ground quickly. Luckily only 1 person has died, but many homes have been lost. I pray for all of the people who have been evacuated or have lost their homes.

Thank you girls for sending me those great photos. I think it will make my Pinecone Press homework spectacular. Even dad let me take a picture of him.

Kellie's marching band got 1st place in their competition last Saturday. She is loving the band thing and all the people. Carlie is having a great time in Chambers and can't wait to go to Chicago.

Love to all!

The Flapper survived Bus Surfin'

2007-10-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

First off, welcome Jen to my blog. I just hope it doesn't lead to concerns like...How could Rick be related to this wacky lady?

I went as a Flapper on Saturday for the scrapbooking bus tour. I had the long beads, the feathers, some really hot, red, shiney lips, some shimy and shack to go along with the fringe, fancy stockings and cool (comfortable) shoes. I am super relieved that it came together well. The costume must have worked out okay, because when I was standing near the lunch place some guys whistled. How funny is that!!!

We had 48 ladies and 2 gentlemen. Every one was so fun and kind. They wanted to take pictures with me and the other hostess Shelly. (It is funny because Shelly only has daughters and one of the names is Carly) So it is funny thinking that I am in other people's scrapbook. The tour was from 8:30 AM to 6PM. It was fun shuffling up and down the bus isle to hand out prizes, play games, smooze and other fun stuff like that. I came home just a little tired. I guess I looked a bit tired the next day to teach my Sunday School class. The youth must not be used to being calm. It was so great being around such wonderful, happy people all day.

I am extra glad, today inparticular, that my family is still alive. Holly was hit from behind while driving near BYU today. She is well and the car faired well too. Shelley is alive too. When a gravel truck hits you, it's a pretty big deal. Paul was in an accident with Kellie and Julie in the van over the summer. So yea!!!! for having my family alive. I think we have had our fun with accidents lately. Funny thing is, these are the only accidents pretty much our whole marriage. So a reminder to all; buckle up and say your prayers every day. What a healthy combination.

Brent Walker's homecoming was yesterday. I think he got taller. He definitly is more outgoing. He is coming over to make Navajo tacos with us. Very exciting. He can't wait to go to BYU Idaho in April. He also wants to see all of his Chatfield cousins ASAP. So with your Thanksgiving comes a tall dose of Brent. Super fun. His talk was great.

Happy Monday

Out of the mouth of babes...

2007-10-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Kellie just called me a dork. Aw, the loving words of my youngest. She thinks when I tell her friends on the AIM, "you're cool like that, check ya later," that I am a dork. So all of you loving darlings, bring it on. What else am I called? By the way, Kellie is such a babe!

So it is homework time at our house. I am trying to help Carlie with her Anatomy. It is much like when I would quiz Holly on her French. I would totally slaughter the words, but Holly would still be able to spell it and tell me what it means. The bones in your head have such crazy names. And did you know that Biology and multicellular organization is actually very cool. So this science stuff rocks. If I don't end up being a doctor I think I could totally handle being on Grey's Anatomy!!! (Kellie doesn't get it...so if I can't be a doctor, I could totally play one since I know all these cool words and stuff.)

It has been so beautiful here today. It is so clear, the sky is so blue and you feel like you could reach out and touch the mountains. I love days like today. Because it was so beautiful I spent some time out in our garden. I picked some zucchini for dinner (sorry Julie, it was yummy) The pumpkin is starting to turn orange. The raspberries are enjoying the cooler weather and the tomatoes are starting to blossom again. So yea! for the little garden. I am going to plant some winter squash and radishes this week. Might as well keep something yummy growing in there all year.

FHE tonight will include brownies, reading the Book of Mormon, discussing General Conf. and if all the homework gets done, watching Heros.

Check ya later, cuz your cool like that...lovingly from the big dork.

A new lawn experience

2007-10-07T21:51:00.000-07:00

Are you stuffed?

What a feast this weekend brought with General Conference. It is hard to say which of the talks was my favorite. Each of the talks were filled with the spirit of truth and beautiful testimony of our Savior. Through the weekend I was filled with such happiness knowing that all of my girls were hearing and being fed with the same spiritual feast.

Carlie and Kellie came into the living room and just hung out while conference was on. They made comments and asked questions. It has been a great weekend.

Something super great happened Saturday. I asked the girls who wanted to mow and who wanted to edge the lawn in between the conf. sessions. Carlie said she would do the edging and Kellie offered to mow. We got out there and before you know it the job was done. It was a beautiful day and it felt good to be outside. Kellie mowed the lawn like a pro. Carlie was doing a great job with the edging and then the blade fell off. I got the tools out, put the blade back on, and Carlie finished it up. I know this isn't as fun as the 'grass in the hair' story, but in so many ways it is a much better story.

So what should I be for Halloween? At work I am doing the bus tour again this Saturday. Any ideas are welcome. Just remember...I will be going up and down the isle of a bus.

Dad's new calling is hitting me in a different place recently. All the Bishop's wives interview with the Stake President once a year. I go for my interview this Wednesday. I am looking forward to meeting with President Carlson to talk about this feeling. On a lighter note, I got some advice from President Haws..."Sister Chatfield, remember you are not the one doing the interviewing." President Haws is a great man with a great testimony, and one who cracks me up...often.

Kellie and I went on a little walk tonight and we were looking at the stars. What an amazing world we are part of. I feel like my blessings are like the stars, too many to count.

2007-09-21T23:20:00.001-07:00

Strong emotional muscles-------

2007-09-21T22:49:00.001-07:00

It is so true that I just wrote a great message. But it got swllowed into cybre space. I will try again tomorrow. My eyes just won't stay open anymore.

Hugs and Kisses

Strong emotional muscles-------

2007-09-21T22:49:00.000-07:00

With all the great things that happen to us a few yucky things happen. We are reminded that these things are good for us and they make us stronger. So here is to stronger emotional muscles!

Let's focus on the great things in life;

*Band World - I went to my first band boosters meeting. It was pretty fun. I also participated in my first band recycle drive. I took a couple of routes. One house was up on the hill. The house has a really long driveway. I got out of the car and started looking for a stack of newspapers. Didn't find one and then an older gentleman came out of the house. What a delightful treat. He greeted me like a gentleman. He told me he served in the war for 40 years. He told me he was 83. I admired his view from his backyard. He got a big smile and said he loved it too. Then he asked if I could call him and remind him I was coming because he can't remember things. He showed me his phone and said the number should be on "that" thing. We talked about a bunch of other stuff. Then his wife came out. She told me he had damensia (sp). She followed with, "he's a good man." It was such a sweet moment. I didn't know picking up papers could bring such joy to me.

Choir World - I went to the choir booster meeting. It wasn't as fun, but I got to see Holly in a picture on the wall. That was fun. I also saw pictures of "he who cannot be named" :-) I am excited that Carlie gets to go to Chicago in the spring. It is fun to hear Carlie be excited about this new part of her world. She is making new friends and learning new songs to sing.

Work World - I have been chosen to host the Halloween bus tour next month. What should I be for Halloween. I suggested to the other gal who is hosting with me that we be can-can girls. That didn't work. Do you all have any suggestions. She and I should be themed. Just remember, going as a scrapbooker is out, that is what all the other people will be wearing. By the way, if I am going to work this job is perfect. Great hours, great people, great discounts, great desk....there are lots of greats about it.

Weather update - It was absolutley stunning today. The high was in the low 70's. The clouds were big and puffy. You could see the pine trees on the mountains. One could not have dialed up a more perfect day. Today was so much different then a couple of weeks ago...triple digit weather is not all that stunning.

New Calling - My bishop gave the okay for me to get a new calling. I am the music specialist for the creche' this year. What does that mean. I'll fill you in...9 hours of special music. I t will be fun to work with some of the stake people again. So I have a week...ready, set, go!

Daddy has been bishop now for 4 weeks. He is doing a great job, please keep him in your prayers.

Blessings - This one is easy. Paul, Holly, Shelley, Julie, Carlie, Kellie, Rick and Caleb. These blessings are the real riches.

So a warm hello to all and a Happy "hello to all the beautifully colored leaves time!!"

Company Meeting

2007-09-05T22:44:00.000-07:00

It seems that as long as Kellie can remember she as wanted to go to the RHS Drama Co. meeting. Tonight she finally got to go. Yes it was thrilling, but waking up at 5AM for seminary makes the lingering part of the gathering not so inticing.

Carlie is exciting for auditions to start for CTF. She is also looking forward to her Chamber Singers retreat this weekend. I believe by Christmas she will longingly look back at the beautiful times when she used to be bored. What is better...being bored or exhausted? I personally think they both serve a great purpose.

Have you seen the cute new Disney stuff from EK? I checked in a bunch of embellishments and papers today. Talk about work being fun...I had a blast today.

Bravo to all of my student children. You work so hard, not always enjoying the work, yet doing it. You are all such great examples to me. I admire you and pray for your success everyday.

What does tomorrow hold? RHS Open House. Dad isn't able to go, so I will do my best to hit the really important classes. I get so goofy and shy during this night.

Final thought; Daddy is getting a Boy Scout shirt and going on the campouts with the YM.
That is so very cool.

Adios

White Puffy Clouds

2007-09-04T22:48:00.000-07:00

So how was my drive back to Redlands? It was full of white puffy clouds, great music and wonderful thoughts of my children. (The boys and the girls.) 9 hours is a bunch of time when your by yourself to think.

Here is some of the stuff I was thinkin' ;
How excited I was to see my very cute husband.
Why is it sometimes when you are trying to be helpful, it comes across as being pushy? And...how do you find that tiny line that divides the two?
I love white puffy clouds. I believe they are a gift from Heavenly Father.
Why are daddy and I so blessed to have such amazing, talented, smart, beautiful........daughters?
I love the temple. I'm glad I got to go with Shelley and Rick. And that Julie got to do baptisms.
How great the music is that my children provided. Thanks Julie for introducing me to Amos.
How great my sons-in-law are and how perfect they are for their wives.
I need to play more racquetball so I can give Phil a better game in April, in cooler weather.
That it is great and strange at the same time that I have 3 adult daughters and how proud I am that they are living responsible adult lives.
Oops...watch the speedometer, 90 is not a good speed.
How much I love my husband.
I love great big rain drops and I love driving in the rain.
I loved that I got to spend time in Utah, but I love coming home.

So it may be a little goofy, but I spent the whole trip feeling very grateful and full of love, and trying not to drive too fast.

PS: I have enjoyed the addition to my blog. Keep it up, humor helps us all stay young and I love to laugh.

Julie Out, Caleb In!

2007-09-01T16:11:00.001-07:00

Due to some rather unfortunate events surrounding a very terrible self-tanning accident, Julie has fallen out of my favor and my son-in-law Caleb has taken her place as the most miraculous child ever.

I don't know if Julie will ever be able to recover from this horrific lapse of judgment in her life, but perhaps, I have always been known as a forgiving person. ;)

Julie is the Coolest

2007-08-30T20:44:00.000-07:00

Julie is the best child I have, way better than Holly and Shelley combined!!! I should just get her the ponies she deserves. Once, I heard a story about Julie saving a baby from a burning building. And you know what... I believe her. Pretty much, she is way more awesome than you. Done. Cheers!

Laughing

2007-08-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

Hello...sometimes laughing just happens. Even if you don't want to. Unfortunately, I laughed at the wrong time and it almost caused Shelley to lose her life. One of the girls was asked to do something and got really upset. It shouldn't have been funny, but...

Kellie gave a great talk today about honoring your father and mother. She looked so beautiful. She also had the cute shirt that Judith gave her for her b-day. Today was the first day people saw Kellie with her new braces. So in the words of Jennifer, "she is such a babe!"

Julie and Kirk sang in church today. It sounded so beautiful. Which is great, especially becuase Julie's throat was so yucky last week. Kirk looked so fancy and his parents were supportive and came to hear the pretty music. That is really great especially since Kirk's mom thinks Julie has cooties.

Having all the girls home is just like heaven, so today was very heavenly.

Here's to long lashes and smiles....ZOTZ

Boom Shadow

2007-08-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited Boom Shadow entered me into the exciting world of blogging! Tomorrow's the first day of school. We're going to go the the glass house in Redlands. Happy Tuesday. That's all. hahahahahahahaha.

I'm posting

2007-08-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

This is the first post I am writing.