JR Squared

I know how you felt....

2011-03-30T21:43:00.003-07:00

Dear Mom (who does not read my blog) Just wanted to let you know that I know how you felt when:

you had the first birthday without allyour children with you but were so happy that you weren't alone

a child didn't call

you couldn't help

you had no more tears

you wondered around your home not knowing what to do (ok, I don't know if this happened)

you had no incentive to make dinner: I find this even more difficult when I don't go to the grocery store

you couldn't sleep

Promise me it gets better.

It's a Good Thing

2011-03-20T10:18:00.008-07:00

I picked up a Pottery Barn catalog the other day. This is what I want:

This is what I have:(It's my bedspread from the 70's-my mothers intuition to keep it was right)

I also found this bird jewelry tree

And I have this-wouldn't the two be lovely together?

2nd of 6: His name is Jim

2011-03-14T22:15:00.005-07:00

If I wrote complete sentences about my brother, you would end up reading a book. So, I will do the bullet list:

Jim had the coolest yet WEIRDEST stuff in his bedroom: skulls, marbles, CJ (tortoise)
In the old house he had the insect/critter set where you pour the plastic in the molds
His bunkbeds in the old house -his room had the orange & white floor
Giving me rides on his snowmachine(s) in the swamp-even tying on the sled. There are pictures of his Polaris & Ski Doo on the Christmas CD from Carolyn & Jim
Catching me & Barb smoking his menthol Marlboro's and making us inhale
Riding with Dad to drop Jim off at a predetermined spot on the Glenn Highway, to be picked up at same predetermined spot a couple days later (scary...never would I do that)
No lima beans for Jim
First glider that flew: wood, visquine and bottle caps-I have a picture
Snoopy
Being the only boy...special but must have sucked too
When he worked at the donut shop and would bring us home the biggest bag of donuts
His HOT friends

To me, my brother Jim is extra special. I have always had a most tender spot in my heart for him-I think he was misunderstood by our parents at times, he had experiences that mom & dad had not dealt with yet-so thanks Jim for breaking them in for me! I love you.

First One of 6

2011-03-01T20:24:00.002-07:00

There was a time in my teenage life when I just knew I was the smartest cookie. Some of you may not think this is too terribly worthy of remembering but I do because it's a way of life for me now. GET THE MOST FOR YOUR MONEY!!!
After a long absence from home, Carolyn was back. I remember being in the kitchen with her and arguing over the brand of tomato sauce to use. This was when store brand/generic brand was just getting onto the shelves. Like I was going to buy no name vanilla wrappered food. This was an argument over tomato sauce for gosh sakes-that was going to be made into spaghetti sauce! Who cares what brand it is.
Anyway, I think I told her that I was right, she didn't live there and I was not going to use what she bought. Sorry...
Well, I do now buy plenty of generic and store brand food items. I also use a lot of coupons. So thanks Carolyn for teaching me to be cost conscious-not frugal.

A more recent memory was when Carolyn & Amei were visiting Arizona and they drove over to our house in Pima. The Graham County Fair was going on and so we spent an afternoon there. I had a great time. I think Amei did too. What about you? The cotton candy was great!

(I will add a photo once I find the right disk)

Six {Posts}

2011-03-01T20:16:00.004-07:00

Some time ago...ok back in January, I was talking to one of my sisters about whether I should keep writing on this blog or give up. I know I hadn't written anything for months and was telling HER that I didn't even know if anyone read it. No one ever comments on anything. On and on I went. She suggested that I write about special memories I have of each sister and brother.

Whew, I said I would have to think about that. Memories can be pretty funny, tender or downright brutal. Hmmm.

So, now that I've had a couple months to think about this, I am ready. In no particular order mind you as I have no favorites! Except my brother.

9-11 A Day of Remembrance

2010-09-11T21:59:00.002-07:00

Last night John & I were watching a news show about 9-11-01. When I watched the first Tower collapse, I started choking up. You know, when you are being brave and oh so strong. The next few minutes showed some interviews with firefighters and police. The reporter asked a policeman if he thought everything was alright. He looked at the reporter and said, in the saddest voice, "No it is not alright". He had just witnessed the tower collapse. There was an eery calm, people were still milling around the streets and then...the second Tower collapsed. That was it, both John and I were letting the tiny tears trickle down our cheeks.

Up until now, I haven't really thought a whole lot about 9-11. Not that I am heartless, but so much of what you hear seems to be about money. Everyone is suing everyone. To me, money, no matter how much, will ever mend a broken heart or exact revenge. It makes no sense. Anyhow, now that I have a son-in-law who is a police officer (Clint) and my daughter Frances and her husband Danny and son Merrick live in New York City - three short blocks from 'Ground Zero', 9-11 takes on a new meaning for me.

This morning we went to a 9-11 ceremony organized by the American Legion Post 129 here in Queen Creek. Now, I believe and understand that the "Day of Remembrance" is for the firefighters, the policemen, the innocent people who just went to work that day. Who just went to rescue the people in the burning and collapsing buildings. Who just got on an airplane to take them somewhere they never got to. For those people who thought 9-11-01 was just another beautiful day. We will never forget.

A New Blog

2010-08-23T19:23:00.001-07:00

There's a new blog for you to read (beginning September 1):
http://robinsonfamilyexperience.blogspot.com/

It's about time...

2010-07-27T21:18:00.004-07:00

Disclaimer on the previous post: I never said what Monday I would update. There Sis - back at you.

Well, it's summer time here in Sunny QC AZ. And that means I just slow down a bit. Truthfully, I've been adjusting to the absence of Merrick and his parents. Not that we saw him (them) ALL the time, but they were close(R) to everyone. I'm happy that they are happy.

So, what I've been doing:

S-l-o-w-l-y putting the toys in bins

Decided the dishwasher doesn't work good enough so now we do dishes by hand. It's not bad.

Went to Kaysville, UT for our annual vacation with Dave & Jolyn>always a great time!

(Here's a picture of John in his festive spirit of the event shirt)

Work, Work, Work

Ate zucchini in 50 different ways. One plant is all you need.

Found out that my "cracky cancer" was really my hip out of joint. It's being fixed now and I feel OH SO MUCH BETTER!

Visited with my brother Jim & Julia (sister-in-law)-pictured here with Mary

Formatting here has gotten a little weird~~~~~~~

STAY TUNED: A NEW FAMILY BLOG BEING CREATED that will feed all spiritually *everyone will be asked to participate.

What have I been up to?

2010-07-17T21:15:00.002-07:00

A lot! And I'll tell you all about it - Monday night!

Footprints in the Mud

2010-05-30T22:09:00.005-07:00

Frances had a moving sale at our house this past weekend. And it really was a moving sale. She's been packing up her home the past few weeks because she & Danny & Merrick are moving to New York City any day. Everything she isn't taking or storing, got packed in boxes and moved to our house for the sale. You can read more about Frances & her life on her blog: http://dannyandfrances.blogspot.com/ . And, to fully understand the pictures below, you will need to read her latest post about "Water Bug".

These are Merrick's footprints left from playing in the mud

In this corner, Merrick was digging with a pen, scooting on his rear and stepping in the mud. He did put the pen full of mud in his mouth too.
I absolutely love watching this little boy do his funny little dances, play games and just be a fun, loving child of God. I love being a grandma!
I will post other pictures on Facebook (Jennifer Fleshman Robinson).

Dear Daughter

2010-05-17T21:11:00.004-07:00

Oh, my heart is so happy but aches at times. You are no longer my baby, toddler, or even teenager. You my dear, are a young woman. My time with you has gone in a flash. You know I often say I wish you were still a baby. That's when you needed me most.

I question whether I gave you all you needed. I tried to be the very best mother to you. Of course there are many things I would have done differently, not that I wouldn't do the same things, just differently. Like working. I loved being home with you. I did my best to and think I was very successful in always putting you #1. That was one condition of going to work. My children always came first. There were times when I had to make a choice, and it was never easy, but I did what was needed. It was all for you.

You are all grown up now and it's time for me to let you go. It's also time for you to let go of me. One of the biggest accomplishments a mother can have, is to raise her children to be confident in her self and able to make those difficult decisions. It is such a joy to see you make thoughtful choices, even if some aren't the best. You always pull yourself up and move forward.

As you move forward in your life, I can move forward in mine. You will have so many precious moments in your life, ones that I hope we can share - as mother and daughter.

I will always need you and your love, and I hope you will always need mine.

Love,

Mom

PS. Remember that you finally gave me all I wanted for Christmas: Peace, Love and Happiness!

Whose Hands?

2010-03-20T10:19:00.008-07:00

Brother & SisterS: Who's hands do you have?

Whose feet?

Mom and Dad, you can play too.

This and That

2010-03-19T20:12:00.010-07:00

So much to post about my mind is all muddled...In life, there are some sure things.

Another spring has arrived:

I have amazing daughters.

I am fat but no one will tell me (my feelings won't get hurt). But as long as I don't feel fat..at least I'm not going up in sizes.

My grandson Merrick is my sweetest little boy. I can say that because I don't have sons.

Merrick's grandpa does silly things: (can you see the carseat?)

I made Page 2 of a weekly "rag" newspaper: (YES, a new photo will be taken in June)

I can't decide what kind of birthday cake to have. Coconut? Chocolate? Chocolate Chip Pie? Homemade? Bakery? Should I make it myself or let someone else? Should I forgo my birthday all together and super celebrate when Rachel & Clint get married?

John finally has a little helper:

And I think that I will get some help making this blogget a little bit cuter!

Next Christmas

2010-01-16T20:50:00.003-07:00

I am already working on my Christmas gift to my family for 2010. This gift is inspired by someone very special in our lives....

Youth Dew and other blessings

2009-12-26T21:39:00.002-07:00

December has to be the busiest month for my family and this year it was extra special:
1. December 1 -Hannah turned 18
2. December 6 - I've been married 23 years
3. December 20 - Rachel turned 21
4. December - baking sweets, getting together with old friends
5. December 24 - opening presents with Merrick - we have to have more grandkids soon-they are just too sweet and fun
6. December 25 - Christmas Day with our family including Daddy & Vicki - great food, good fun, many memories
7. December 26 - dropped Rachel off the airport, played with Merrick and visited Frances
I've taken the next week off from work, a much needed break and I plan to stay home and de-clutter (how many DI runs can I make?)
This past year my family has been given many challenges, but, with help and blessings from our Heavenly Father, we have made it. I believe next year will bring even more challenges, but they can't be any harder.
Oh, yes, every year I ask for "peace, love and happiness" and every year my girls roll their eyes and tell me I have to come up with something real. I realize now, that I get what I want every year, my family gives me my Peace, my Love and my Happiness. Thank You!

(Youth Dew: Perfume that reminds me of my mom and I wore it on my wedding day. I got some for Christmas)

To the Ken Fleshman's in our lives

2009-11-11T14:44:00.010-07:00

It's a beautiful day.

I am working on a secret project and googled my dad's name by "J. Kenneth Fleshman". Not surprising there are a lot of links with his name. Not all of them contain the correct spelling, for some reason, everyone wants our last name to be Fleischman. Which reminds me of when little sis Barb explained to our friends the correct spelling of our last name: "We like our man with flesh". Clever wasn't she.
There is so much to learn on the internet. For instance, just on one link alone there were 10 articles about Alaska Native childrens health issues dad wrote that were published. That's not all it's just that there are too many to count. But look at the little gems of pictures I found. Biggest surprise is one that we all should recognize as being representative of our Grandpa.At his 50th Reunion at USC Keck Medical School - receiving the 50 year Fellow Medal (2009)

Group Picture of the event- can you find him?

Award winning Aeschynanthus javanicus (Gesneriad)

Grown by Ken Fleshman (grandpa)

I'm Blind I'm Blind....

2009-10-26T21:23:00.004-07:00

I wear contacts. I go and see my eye doctor every June. I buy contacts every June. This year with insurance I was able to almost have an entire year's worth of contacts covered. I was feeling GOOD!

Remember my trip to Alaska in August? Well, while I was packing my make-up, I thought I should put my 8 boxes of contacts away - you know - to make my bathroom counter neater for John.

I put them away so good. So good. Oh my gosh-I couldn't remember where I put them. Who loses 8 boxes of contacts?I tore my room apart, I looked in every single drawer no less than three times. I even went through the garbage (yea!). I just knew I wasn't stupid enough to actually throw them away.

Now, it's the end of October. What do I find?

I swear I looked in this drawer, I took out every single handkerchief ( see my violet gum?). I called to John and you know what he said: "Where did you find them?". Was this some kind of October Fools Joke?

Yes Freedom Does Have A Price!!

2009-10-26T21:18:00.004-07:00

Yea! What can I say but Hannah is free! Free from myspace. So what if I had to pay her, it's worth it. Not that it is all bad, but the anxiety, sadness and mean stuff that goes on doesn't compare with her happy shining smile! And she danced...

PS: She showed me the confirmation.

Friday Funnies

2009-10-06T19:42:00.002-07:00

On Frances' blog she says all she really blogs about is Merrick. I could do the same.

Some days, he's the brightest, happiest, loviest munchkin to be around! And guaranteed to make you smile. That's what Fridays are for- Mr. Merrick (really Master Merrick)

On a more serious note, I have a lot of issues, events, thoughts that I want to write about and will, but I've got to get my thoughts together first. Sometimes I think about a topic for a few days, lay it out in my mind and then get it down in print.

Pillows, pillows everywhere

2009-09-22T13:58:00.003-07:00

A few months ago, with the help from Mary, I picked out some fabric to make new pillow covers. Since she is the more creative and talented she got the assignment to do the sewing & embellishment. Well, we ran out of time on this one visit and she had to go home to Tucson so I sent the pillows & fabric with her. I will add that I gave her no time frame to have them done. Appparently her good man Bob felt that she really needed to get these pillows finished so they planned a trip back up here. It worked out perfect, Bob was able to spend time with one of his very good friends hiking in Payson and Mary got to spend quality time with me and sew! Ok, now here is the "Fleshman" punchline: she forgot the fabric in Tucson!! Bob thought that was just an excuse to go shopping. I thought it was just too hilarious. Kind of like a few weeks ago when Dad & Vicki wanted to take me on a picnic to Elephant Head and they forgot to put the food in the picnic basket!

Words & Definitions

2009-09-13T19:17:00.005-07:00

Indifferent: having no marked feeling or preference; impartial
Indignity: humiliating treatment
Tolerate: to put up with; endure; to suffer
Tolerant: considerate; patient
Gossip: malicious talk; idle talk
SNOB: one who considers themselves better than others
Acceptance: approval
Behavior: manners; deed; conduct

Love: intense affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties.

The Art of.....

2009-09-06T20:19:00.004-07:00

I know it's been more than a week, and more than two weeks since posting. But hey, I'm a busy gal. Since I grew up in Anchorage, my reasons for going up there to visit are for family and friends so I don't do a lot of scenic touristy things and don't take a lot of pictures. But I did go somewhere for the very first time in my life! But I figure it's ok because I went with my oldest sister Katie and her daughter Aislinn. I was only an OBSERVER - I repeat an observer!!

P.S. This place was very clean and the employees were dressed so modestly.

Beautiful Day Beautiful Breakfast

2009-08-24T00:10:00.004-07:00

Wow, we like breakfast! Saturday morning my sisters Katie, Barb & I went to a new bakery downtown. Cute place and right in the neighborhood and people reallly like dogs up here, they bring them everywhere. After breakfast we went to visit Mom for a little bit and make plans for the next few days.

After visiting with Mom, we did a few errands and then picked up Katie's grandson Koda and his parents Josh (my nephew) and his wife Liz and went to the Alaska Zoo. It was a beautiful day and all of the animals were out! Here is a special sign for all those familiar with Old Columbine:

Today (Sunday) I went to church and later in the evening we all had a family dinner at Katies house. It's been raining most of the day but for a brief 10 minutes or so, the rain was coming down so hard, I was waiting for the thunder. It reminded me of how it rains in Arizona in the summer -or should I say when it rains?. But Friday and Saturday were beautiful sunny days and according to the weather forecast, it should be nice part of tomorrow and Tuesday & Wednesday.

So, plans for tomorrow include baking cookies with Mom and special dinner at my favorite restaurant with a view of Cook Inlet. Wednesday I'll spend with Katie and Thursday with Carolyn. I'll report on Tuesday (no internet at Mom's).

A surprised mother

2009-08-24T00:00:00.003-07:00

We pulled it off! When I decided I was going to go up to Anchorage this summer, my sisters & I went into conspiracy mode so that mom would be completely surprised. We even had to get Dad in on it as he visted just a few weeks before. He told me when he was visiting Mom she was going on about how long it had been since she had seen my family and that she really needed to go down to Arizona. His reply was something along the line of "Well don't go in August it's too hot".

Thursday morning bright and early my little sister Barb & I picked up some breakfast and took it over to Mom's. It took a few minutes for her to get convinced that no one was trying to break in before she answered the door. This is what she looked like (if you can, zoom in on the picture to get the full effect - Barb & I had to pull over on the side of the road we were laughing so hard and didn't want to pee our pants)

I am a happy failure but "it's not fair"

2009-08-09T20:37:00.009-07:00

I used to believe that things weren't fair in life. When I was a little girl I had to do jobs around the house and I believed no one else had to do, except my younger sister. Fold the socks, do the dishes, make the lunches, empty the garbage, set the table, blah blah blah. I would think of every excuse to get out of dishes. Oh, my stomach hurts: I have to go to the bathroom: fake asleep. Guess what? Dishes were still waiting!

When I finally grew up, got married and had children, I began to believe that it was fair to have jobs around the house. I could ask, "tell", and even demand that my girls clean their room, scrub the bathroom, do the dishes, but I wasn't a good enforcer. I don't like arguments or confrontations. I believe it's easier to do things myself. This is where I am a failure. A silent but happy failure. I've had doubts about how my girls will take care of themselves on their own or when they get married. Even though I may have done a lot of the housework, I know they were watching and learning. I know they can manage on their own. And when Frances got married, I knew it was her problem and not mine anymore. And it will be the same for Rachel & Hannah.

One area I don't believe I failed in however, is how I discipline my children. Or as 2 out 3 would say "lack of discipline". To understand this, I had to first become a mother. A mother to three very different girls. They all have the same blood but oh, my, do they ever have their own brain (or would it be brain activity? JK). Learning how to discpline can't come exclusively through books or parental advice although I think the parental advice goes a lot further than the book.

You have to know and understand how your child thinks. And you have to go into this knowing they will never think you are fair. I explain to the complainer that until they are a mother and have to deal with their children, there is no understanding. As a mother I have to learn and understand three distinct personalities and figure out how to, in the most effective and sometimes creative way, have them understand the reason(s) a bad choice was made and what the consequences are going to be. And the claim "it's not fair, you didn't treat me the same way" will ring through the house.

All I can say is "just you wait, you'll have children someday". And then you can come ask me advice.

Side note: This does not apply to discplining or understanding your husband. Completely different set of rules apply.

Blue Eyes and dinasaurs and a flower

2009-08-01T22:40:00.002-07:00

Half Day at Grandma's - Part 2

2009-08-01T22:28:00.006-07:00

I don't have any pictures of our next fun but Hannah & I played with Merrick outside in the shade with his water table. What fun he has getting himself completely wet. His Mom asked me to give him a bath sometime so he got one after we were finished outside. Then naptime and then lunch.

Merrick got an owwie and had to go to the doctor. Then Merrick got a fruit bar and was happy until his Mom needed to leave (with him). He poured his water all over himself, the table and the floor. What can I do but laugh. And clean it up. I love him!

Half a day at Grandma's

2009-08-01T22:02:00.009-07:00

Yesterday was a day of adventure for Merrick. He's had an ear infection this past week, so I don't think he's been too interested in the nutritious food category. He didn't want eggs, no sugar donut or apple juice. But he did eat his 9-grain toast. Hmm. Then I had to pay some bills, so we went into the computer room. Lots of stuff for Mr. M to play with.

After playing with the push-pins and flowers, he spotted his favorite corner with the phone, headset and racing computer of Grandpa's. I don't have a picture but as soon as Grandpa got home, Merrick climbed in the seat and started making the car sounds. What a boy!

The I had to do the dishes. I must have put something away in the pantry because as soon as I shut the doors, Merrick toddles over and whips those doors open and traded a toy for some good food!

Mr. Robinson's Watermelon

2009-08-01T21:59:00.003-07:00

This had to be a 10 pounder!

And now it's all cut up and ready

to eat.

Yum!

He's so CUTE!!

2009-07-17T20:50:00.006-07:00

He likes the dinasaur and can you see the big blue ball - he always has a ball in his hands!

This is going to be one tough boy.

This is old, but this is how I found these two - sound asleep.

The blue ball got traded for the red ball. Merrick has been "playing" the piano since he could pull himself up (don't look at the backround mess, it all has a purpose and I'll clean it up some day).

A Backyard Garden Story

2009-07-13T20:57:00.009-07:00

Every year John & I talk about planting a vegetable garden. About every other year one actually gets planted. This year John planted the garden twice. There was corn, radishes, carrots, squash and peppers. He put up rabbit wire but as soon as the corn was 4 inches tall, the carrots about 1 inch and the little red radish heads were popping out of the ground.....in came the four-legged squirrel type rodent and mowed everything down overnight. More likely it was within 20 minutes.

About a month later he planted again. Wait, wouldn't this be the third time? But only the watermelons and squash got planted. Squash didn't make it again - as soon as they flowered....you know the rest of the story. BUT here's an idea! Mix the watermelon with the grass by a brick wall and look what you get! Yeah, watermelon!!!
Here are some other pictures of the backyard:

This is a $5 tree from Walmart that we planted in 1994.

The neighbor seems to have a new horse. The grass doesn't look too good this year, but there's an acre of it and we have a lot of gophers and those pesky squirrel rodents. But the front yard is beautiful.
This is my favorite mesquite tree. If one decides to grow in a "good" spot, John will leave it. Usually the ones that decide on the berm (that controls the irrigation) get to stay. When the sun is setting this part of the yard has the most beautiful shade.

My gardener.

I made the front page!

2009-07-01T23:44:00.003-07:00

It's true! Here I am on the front page of "The Independent". Ok Ok so it's the back of me that shows. By the way, this was a two hour meeting after I drove two hours round-trip to Phoenix and sat 8 hours in class. My butt was tired of sitting.

Spiritual Thoughts

2009-06-30T21:29:00.004-07:00

From my notes of Queen Creek Chandler Heights Stake Conference February 2009:

1. The consequences of our choices today are eternal. (Elder Martino-70's)

2. Trials help to refine us and be able to become more Christlike (our rough edges get knocked off). (Elder Martino-70's)

3. One of our biggest trials will be as parents. You feel the pain and feel the joy. (Elder Martino-70's)

4. ...Pass through experiences with dignity and faith. (Bro. Farr)

5. With the winds & storms come the miracles. The Lord is always with you. (Bro. Farr)

Clearly the message was to be strong and faithful in all we do and believe during this time of depression (economic and spiritual).

********************************************************
John & I are going to visit his brother Dave & wife Jolyn in Utah for the 4th of July. Their town has a great parade and fireworks. And maybe it will be cooler. I love taking car trips. I am a firm beleiver that my husband needs to drive and my job is to keep him awake and on route. I'll be sure and take my camera. Be safe.

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

2009-06-21T21:18:00.002-07:00

Since this will never make in Reader's Digest I will post it here. True story...

One morning I woke up and went in to the bathroom. I looked in the mirror and said "Oh my gosh I look like my Mom!". I took my shower, dried off and looked in the mirror again (you know, close enough to see since the contacts aren't in yet). I said "Oh my gosh I look like Katie!". So now I've got my make-up on, dressed and off to work. Well I was pondering this scenario and decided to call Barb to tell her the story. I think we had a good laugh. Her final response: "Well by tonight you'll look like me!". I had found the fountain of youth in my own mirror. (For those who don't know my family between Katie & Barb there are 3 other sisters and 1 brother = 6 children my parents have).

Releasing Rocks

2009-06-21T20:58:00.003-07:00

Last week I attended my annual Arizona Municipal Clerk's Academy in Phoenix. One of our sessions was on leaving a legacy. One definition of "legacy" is "something given or recieved by an ancestor or predessor". Sometimes I get so focused on my personal being rather than my professional being that I get in a fluster. I mean, somedays I really want to be at work, doing what I do but then I have this tug & pull war that I really want to be home (no one even has to be at home - but it's where I want to be). So, for this post, I will focus on a personal legacy. And it starts with:

1. Releasing Rocks = excess baggage

Who doesn't have excess? Perhaps I let go of too much and seem a little aloof and not really emotionally tied up in something. It's just that to me, so much information/dialogue/crap is well, just crap and I don't need to carry it around with me. Released.

2. Apologize.

Many years ago, perhaps overcoming pregnancy hormones, I had this overwhelming sense of guilt for something that I had done ten years earlier. I had to get rid of the guilt, so I bravely got on the phone, called a sister and apologized for dumping all of her makeup out of the drawer and smashing it. Whew, I felt better. She laughed. Released and apologized.

3. Acknowledge faults.

I have many and acknowledge them. Enough said.

4. Find joy in people.

In just the last few years I have been really finding joy in people that before, I would have never paid attention to. Just looking at a sweet childs face or arms wrapped around a parents neck; the older couple having dinner together ( I really love old people - 70+ years old); meeting a friend for lunch; singing favorite hymns.

5. Accept what you have been given.

Ok, this is sometimes a challenge. But I don't believe that I have been "given" anything terrible. My family is and always has been healthy. I have a job that pays very well. Love at home and I am alive! And if our family legacy continues I will be alive for another 50 years!

I haven't decided what I want my legacy to be but I know it has to start with a seed, be nurtured and in these next 50 years, I will have the time to complete what I want to leave behind.

What.....

2009-06-07T21:43:00.001-07:00

...is in your freezer?

Mr. M

2009-06-05T17:57:00.004-07:00

This is why I love love love having Merrick on Fridays! Babies are so FUN the second time around because you know everything and they bring so much JOY into your everyday life. Even though I don't work on Fridays, I now find myself scheduling most appointments etc., around Fridays But we bought a car seat, so we can now take Merrick along for errands and activities. Oh, yes, he WALKS now too! And does he ever love balls. We have baseballs, foam balls, earth balls, bowling balls (plastic), footballs, kitty toy balls. You name it we got it and he has it in his hand.

Happy Birthday JR

2009-06-01T21:31:00.007-07:00

This is John's 24th birthday. We'd been dating two months (!). My family tradition is to let the birthday person, in this case birthday boy, have his choice of dinner and then invite family over for the birthday cake. All we could muster up was his brother Dave, his wife Joyln and their kids: Nicole, Eric and Chad (Todd-you weren't born yet) and sister Lisa & her husband. I think this was the first time we all met each other.

Many birthdays later here we are at his 47th birthday. This time just our girls and boys(that would be Danny & Mr. Merrick). We had pizza and of course CAKE!

What I would like to say is I hope you had a happy birthday even if you were so tired you went to bed at 8:30pm!

Love,
Your wife

Summer break anyone?

2009-05-26T21:34:00.003-07:00

Oh, the good old fashioned summer break. Does it exist anymore? It does in my foggy memories. The days were long - time wise & light wise. I suppose these two "wises" had the effect of summer dragging on. I remember though that I was a little sad when it ended. No more weekday parties; camping; swimming in the gravel pit; staying up late and getting up early because we weren't allowed to sleep in. When my sister & I talk about the gravel pit we are both amazed that no one ever got hurt or drown. I think of the grossness of it now and it, well, it grosses me out.
Summer break is upon my family now. Hannah's last day of school is Thursday. Not only is it her last day of her junior year, but we have relented and she is going to attend another high school for her senior year. Just because she's been asking for the past two years...She might go to summer school too so she can take two semesters of seminary next year.
Rachel graduates as a dental assistant on Friday. She's already started her summer classes: Anatomy & communications (pre-requisites for dental hygiene school).
Frances has said she wants to go back to school. She's been working part-time and staying at home with Merrick while Danny has been working and going to school.
I've had one small break - a trip to California to meet up with my sister Katie and her two daughters and grandchildren. Not enough fun and not enough time.
John & I will go somewhere together this summer for our summer break. Maybe a break from summer?

Me & Mine

2009-05-14T22:30:00.002-07:00

This picture was on my computer at work. See we can be cute. And we do adore each other. Sometimes. Ok, most of the time. But we do love each other all of the time.

The Prom Dress - Part Two

2009-05-10T21:04:00.008-07:00

Well, here we are again - 3 weeks later and I have the dress complete. It is stunning and absolutely one-of-a-kind. I realize there is a reason why patterns go on sale for .99. Oh, the dress was easy enough to make it's just that the sizes weren't really accurate. And I believe that I should become a designer (not really) because I have hidden talents in altering and improvising that I never knew I had. Here's some pictures:

(totally custom bustling)

Hannah & Mr. M

I wonder what my next project is? I know of some upcoming events that are taking precedence though : May 15: Danny (son-in-law) graduates from UofA; May 29: Rachel graduates as Dental Assistant; May 21: trip to California to see sister Katie & nieces & friends; and June is a new month!

By Special Request - The Drive-thru

2009-05-08T22:38:00.002-07:00

As requested in the previous post - here is a picture of "The Drive-thru".

Good Bye...

2009-05-02T19:53:00.011-07:00

This is a farewell post to our "Love Nest" or "The House that Love Built". It began summer 2006. John & I decided that it was time to look for a lot in Pima. We found a few but the owners weren't wanting to sell yet. So the word got out that we were looking for a house and one was practically delivered right in our laps. John looked at it first. He was sold. Later when it was my turn to look at it, as were were driving down the road, he was preparing me, because I'll tell you, it's a butt-ugly house on the outside. If you watch HGTV, there was and really still has no curb appeal at all. We took a look inside together and you know what, we saw the potential. I fell in love. I dreamed of living in a tiny little house with a gorgeous view of Mt. Graham. So, we bought it.
John spent the next 9 months remodeling. He had some help and we did pay to have it painted. But John scraped old texture from the walls & ceilings; ripped the grossest carpet out; we removed 40 year old flooring and probably got asbestos poisoning; pulled out cabinets and the toilet. It was bare. Except for the kitchen cabinets. I wanted those to stay because they added charm to the house. John worked and worked. He spent many days out of each week down in Pima, sleeping at his parents house. He tiled and we had carpet installed. We moved furniture in. It was lovely.

Finally, time to spend our first night. It was heaven. So quiet and cozy. We dreamed of the future ( far future). Hannah loved it. She even wanted to move down there and finish high school.

So, for the next year or so, we spent almost every weekend down there. And holidays. But time ran out. Late 2008 hit. Jobs disappeared. Our home in QC didn't sell. Family relations down there had become very uncomfortable, I mean really, how can you live a mile away from a sister/sister-in-law who has disowned you and your family and no one can or will explain why? It was time for "Plan B" ( I always have Plan B and once in awhile Plan C). We decided we would sell the "Love Nest". And we did. In only one week! Maybe our luck was turning.

It was sweet while it lasted but it wasn't our time. Sometime though, and we still own property in Pima. A five-person lot in Pima Cemetary with a fine view of the mountain!

Before:

After:

So, here we are, right where we belong after all.

Texting with Barbie

2009-04-22T22:13:00.002-07:00

Me: Blog Update
Barbie: Not logged on. What did you write?
Me: Yea like I'm gonna divulge and what do you mean logged on don't tell me you have dial up.
Me: I send a picture of my box of spritz cookies from Bashas'
Barbie: Funny they don't smell homemade
Me: Oh they aren't they are from the grocery bakery and all mine
Barbie: I am pretty sure one of those would make my cold IN away
Me: You mean GO away
Barbie: No but I would have to move
Me: That's too funny
Barbie: See I need a cookie
Me: At least two and I will eat them for you
Barbie: Woo Hoo! I get a virtual cookie! Not the same but close
Me: can I post this conversation
Barbie: Sure but you have to make sure all know it is kissy lips

Our conversation last night was how to use Vicks. I hope Barbie gets better.

A few of my favorite things

2009-04-22T19:30:00.002-07:00

This picture shows just a few of my favorite things that I have on my shelves.I know I'm weird but who cares: Starting from back - left to right:

1. Light. This is very useful. John helped Frances make it oh, maybe 8 years ago for a science project (go figure...). Anyway, during our many power outages it has come in very handy.

2.Star: This is an ornanment that Hannah made in elementary school.

3.Paper Frances: She used to go by Renee and made this in pre-school! Too cute! Rachel made one too but it's not on a stand.

4.Stick: You can't see the writing but John carved our initials and date on this stick from Old Columbine on Mt. Graham. The stick is now 23 years old. I used to keep it in the headboard cubby to use as a weapon in case anyone broke in. I felt much safer.

5.Wire Rachel: This was made in Art Class in high school.Brock may have influenced the design a little because there is a resemblance to a basketball.

6.Horse: my brother, who can make anything cool, made this horse.

7.Wire Hannah: This too was made in Art Class. Hannah is holding a guitar.

8. Magnet: This has been on our refrigerator for oh, maybe 13 years. It's paper and holds very important photos.

So, this is just a sampling because I have so many favorites. But my very most favorite (is that correct grammar?) things aren't things at all, they are my family - everyone included!!

The Prom Dress - Part One

2009-04-14T19:36:00.004-07:00

It's that time of the school year. Girls are going ga-ga over pretty dresses with really ugly price tags. I've learned that if I stall long enough then I can usually convince my girls that I can make the exact same dress for really cheap. I've done it before - really! I have no idea why they think I won't get a dress done in time for whatever event. I made Frances' 8th grade promotion dress. I made Rachel's homecoming dress (that she didn't end up wearing but Hannah wears it a lot). Now I am making Hannah's dress. We were able to get the pattern and fabric, including zipper and thread for $37!!! Woo hoo - of course, my labor of love isn't included. But that's what really matters, I labor for the love of my daughter and the beauty that I can create. With this said, once I get the dress done I will post Part Two. And now, for the rest of the story:

My mom made my dress for my Senior Prom (1981). I really don't know why I wanted to go so much. Ok, I do know. I had a hot (hott) boyfriend who I thought I was madly in love with and wanted to spend the rest of my life with. But after all these years, I think I was just obsessed with him. I digress. So, as I remember I asked my Mom to make my dress. She never said no. She's a really good sewer also. We picked out the Gunnie Sax pattern and beautiful fabric. I know Mom worked tirelessly on the dress after work. She had to have other things to do. But sew she did. Right up until Prom night when she sewed the last trim on! Will I do the same?

You ask if I still fit in this dress? Ya, right - not for the last 21 years. But I'm still keeping it.

The Poison

2009-04-05T18:52:00.004-07:00

I tried. I gently chopped up the little leaves. Not the 1/4 cup called for in the recipe but just a little bit. I put them in a little black bowl next to the delicious red tomato, dark green lettuce and bright green & white onion. They smelled a little good. But I didn't touch them. John asked why I put them on the table. "Because the recipe called for it" I answered. I think he was perplexed because he knew I wouldn't partake.
What is this that cannot be eaten you ask? I'll tell you: CILANTRO!!!! And what is the reason this cannot be eaten? I'll tell you: I was poisoned with it before. 'Tis true....I was given an overdose of garbanzo beans and cilantro. To this day, I will pick out any visible shred of cilantro in anything. I will also admit that I threw the whole stinkin' poison bunch of cilantro in the garbage after dinner. I couldn't help myself and no I'm not ashamed.

My Birthday Month

2009-03-30T20:33:00.006-07:00

I celebrate my birthday all month. March is a beautiful month. It is the start of spring and spring makes me happy. I love the colors of spring. I love the flowers that bloom. I love the bunnies that start playing in the yard. I believe I am the only person in the world who can grow beautiful iris and snow drops (some kind of bulb) without ever watering them, even during the 115degree summer. I look forward to every spring when my "Lady" blooms. I see her outside my kitchen window and a thousand birds call her home. Once the flowers fade, she gets a "haircut" and I wait patiently for the next spring.

I celebrate my birth month by wearing my birthstone for 31 continuous days. Beautiful aquamarine earrings and ring.

And on March 29, I celebrate by having a slice (or two) of cake on a very special birthday plate. This year it was "Queen Mothers Cake". Growing up we got to choose what plate we had our birthday cake on and I always chose this one.

Yes, March is over and I am a year older and I am so blessed. I have a wonderful husband, loving daughters, 1 son-in-law, 1 missionary, and an adorable grandson. I have parents who love me. I have sisters and a brother who I love and they love me. What more could a girl ask for?

Happy Birthday to Aislinn and Oliver too and everyone else who has a birthday in March!

2009-03-26T21:56:00.001-07:00

The Butter Dish

2009-03-26T21:32:00.003-07:00

I am not a covetous person. But I covet this butter dish. Ok, not this one, but the one my mother has. The one we grew up with. I have begged for this butter dish more than once. The answer was always "NO". This butter dish is the exact copy.

I get nostalgic every so often. Several years ago I was in one of my woe is me, I miss my mom little funks. What is funny is my mom was visiting and so was my little sister Barb. Katie may have been here too.

We set out looking for one at the antique stores. Here's a secret, my sister Barb & I are a little competitive when it gets to finding and grabbing something that makes us remember our childhood. I won on this, only because Barb bought the butter dish and gifted it to ME!!

Fast forward. I've been enjoying my butter dish. My husband breaks said butter dish. He was very sorry. He was most sad because he knew how much it meant to me. What shall I do? E-Bay to the rescue. I found "just the butter dish". I didn't need the lid. I still had the lid. I was so happy and so excited because two days after "winning" on E-bay (ok, it was a buy-it-now) - I had my replacement butter dish in my hands. What a happy day and I have once again become covetous of my butter dish. And I don't put Imperial margarine in it, only butter.

I need help!

2009-03-23T21:34:00.002-07:00

If I can't get comments on my blog I don't know how I'll get help! I went through the tutorials and gazillions help topics. No help. The instructions don't match up to the templates. Anyone reading this and if you know me, send an e-mail.

Isn't She Beautiful?

2009-03-22T15:55:00.005-07:00

I know all three are! I spent an afternoon shopping with these beautiful girls. Frances looked at baby clothes for Merrick. Rachel scored a hairbow for $2 and red shoes fromDillards for $20. Hannah - zilch, nada, nothing! And me? Well we went to Barnes and Noble and I got three books with a gift card. I've read two and am on the third one. (I didn't spend any real hard cash/debit card on anything)

I wonder when the last time my mother was lucky to spend an afternoon with her five daughters (ok, I'll include my brother too)? All I know is it's been too long!