Tis the Season

Thanksgiving, Polar Express, the Forgotten Carols, and Katelyn's Baptism.
It's been a busy few days.
Thanksgiving always kicks off the busiest time of the year. It was great to have most of the family home, and we really missed Trish and Tyson and families. Thank goodness we have willing men that like to cook outside. Deep fried turkey and dutch oven potatoes, yummm. Makes it pretty easy on me, too. We had a great day, 25 of us and I realize more every year how grateful I am for my family. I love the craziness that goes on and the added noise of the laughter as we tell stories on each other and play games around the table. I just hope that soon we will ALL be together for a day or two.
The Saturday after Thanksgiving we all met in Heber City for a ride on the Polar Express. 29 of us that day! What great fun as I watched the excitement of the kids. They all got a special Christmas bell from Santa and told the elves what they wanted. I don't know what Ty had going on with Mrs. Claus, but she sure spent alot of time with him and I always knew Shane could dance, but on a train in front of so many strangers, WOW! It was great!!
Wednesday Vickie, Annette and I had a girls night out and went to the Forgotten Carols. This is one of my Christmas favorites. Each year something different stands out and you always leave feeling so good. Good times with good friends!
Yesterday Ralph and I went to Salt Lake for Katelyn's baptism. A very special day for her. It was good to spend some time with his family. We came home in a bit of a snow storm but it was worth it.
The next few weeks are going to be just as busy, but that's what keeps me going. Something different everyday.
Love to all.

September

WOW, it's been a crazy month. I don't have any pictures to post, but want to say "THANK YOU" to everyone that has helped me lately.
Shanna's wedding was perfect. We couldn't have had a more beautiful fall day on the lake. And so many family and friends just made it that much better.
The week after, Ralph and I took what we thought was a well deserved camping trip to Yellowstone. Again, a beautiful week, not a lot of wildlife, but warm sunny days for hiking. We had a great time.
We came home to help with the Harry and Merlin family reunion. Once again, a beautiful day! Hard to believe that 2 people could have so many offspring. There were around 85 there, and that wasn't everyone. The rocket launcher and trap shoot were a big hit. It's great to spend time together as a family. We have a great haritage.
Again, thanks to everyone. I love you.

Heavenly Father's Garden

What a ride! We met Shane at Franklin Basin Saturday and spent most
of the afternoon 4-wheeling.
He had returned from scout camp the day before and told us how neat
the wild flowers were. It was amazing!
Why spend the day on the lake with a crowd of people, frying in the sun
when you can get away from it all and see something like this.

Wow! Look who just turned 60.
We had a little party and the kids had a great time
helping with the gifts. ( I've heard you revert back to your childhood when you get old). Thanks, Tyrel, for the new toys!






I wanted to put 2 candles in each of the 30 cupcakes, but you just can't find that many in a small town








SOOO we had to settle for one big one. Easier for an "old man" to blow out.








I think he really liked his new hammock. Nice way to spend some quiet time after a hard day at work!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RALPH

I know,it's been a while!
I guess it's about time I put something on about our cruise.
We had a great time!
We left from Tampa and went to Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, and Grand Cayman





We didn't get to see much of Cozumel because we decided to test our youth and go on a zip line








It was amazing. I loved it and wanted to see how fast I could get going. We found out later that we should have gone on the one in Belize, but we had other plans for there.




We took the whole day and went to the Mayan ruins.
What an experience!
I haven't felt the Spirit
like that for a long time. We climbed to the
top of this structure and overlooked the
valley. It's really something when you
have a little knowledge of the Book of
Mormon and the people. I want to go
back!
The other two stops were beautiful, but Belize was the highlight for me.

Where's spring?

Look what we woke up to yesterday morning. I thought spring came in March, but it looks like we are getting a good case of winter.
12 1/2 inches in 18 hours.
Poor Elliot got stuck in the snow when I was shoveling the walk. He just sat there and whined. He usually likes to play in fresh snow, but I guess this was just a little too much.
It is kind'a pretty, but I hope it doesn't continue.

Christmas, birthdays and New Years

I know I'm the worst at updating, but you know
I am a very busy woman! :)
It is past time for me to say "thank you" to everyone for making
the holidays so special.
It was great having so many family members home
for Christmas, birthdays and New Years.
It was fun trying to start a few new traditions with a simple dinner,
the family program and just having a good time together.
I had so much fun recording the amazing talent in our
family that I kind'a forgot to take pictures to post,
but I did get a fewThe anticipation of what was to come was on everyone's mind.
The kids were great with their skits, dancing and magic show.
Then it was up to the adults!
There was a little poetry, 12 days of Christmas and a "Tana and Erin" selection.
It was quite entertaining having "Elivis" back in the house.
I don't think he moves quite as well as he use to, however.
I will have to admit I am a little concerned about "Santa's Baby".
I hope this isn't the way he dresses for work.
Thanks again to everyone.
Can't wait 'til next time!