Karen's Corner

Thanksgiving and More!

2011-11-29T10:27:00.001-07:00

Another Thanksgiving day has come and gone. We only had 7 of us this year, but we still had fun! More family came and visited later in the day, and that was wonderful! We also got the announcement that we have a new addition due in May... Jim and Shauntae are expecting their third! We are so excited and happy for them! Maybe we will get another boy and get the totals closer... we are three short on the boys side! I told Kari and Jordan that they could have triplets, but they didn't think that was too good of an idea! Anyway, we are always excited for a new baby in our family!
Curt and the boys have been working hard to gat our "Party House" done. It is going to be wonderful to have room to have everyone eat together! I am getting quite excited to go out and cook up a big meal for all of them! If it is done before Christmas, we will have our family party there on the 26th! It will be good to sit down together and enjoy each others company without having to crawl under the table or over other people...and be in the same room! What better Christmas gift could we give each other?

I am hoping that the New Year will be as good as the last year has been for us. The holidays are always so packed with things to do, that this may be the last post for the year... If so.. Happy Holidays to all of you!

Falling under the spell...

2011-10-29T17:21:00.002-06:00

It's almost Halloween. I went to Molly's party last night to "help" and eat dinner with them. I laughed so hard at what those girls said and did. It was so fun to watch and see how they got along so well and laughed so hard at what they were playing at the time. It is refreshing to see the "younger" generation having fun and being good friends. I enjoyed every minute that I spent with them. I didn't take pictures, but Cresta did, so when she posts them, I am going to borrow them and put some on here. (It is always more interesting to see photos, don't you think?)
Monday is the "trunk or treat" at the park. I always dress in my t-shirt that has a pumpkin face on it and hand out treats to the kids. They are so cute in their costumes and so excited to be there. It sure is a lot easier than opening the door a million times and handing it out at the door. (Call me lazy, that's ok!)
My lawn has a new carpet and it is getting plusher every minute. The colors range from gold, brown, orange and green and look absolutely beautiful. It even crunches as you walk on it. I am putting off raking the carpet...I love the colors and feel it gives our yard. I want to leave it until the last possible second before we get the big snows. I don't know when that will be, but I hope I get them done before that. The kids walking home from school seems to gravitate to them, maybe I will pile them up on the edge of our yard, just so they can walk through them! Fall has to be the favorite of all times to me. I like Spring, summer and winter, too. Fall just seems special some how.
Our family is all growing and getting older. My oldest grandkids came to visit today in their costumes that they are wearing to help at the town festivities. They are such beautiful kids and so willing to help. All my grandkids make me happy and glad that I am their grandma. They are truly blessings!
The spell may not last too long, and winter will be upon us, but, for now....I'm completely happy and content to be where I am right now. Life is beautiful and so are our surroundings. Happy Fall Everyone!

Ramble on...

2011-10-05T22:21:00.004-06:00

So much has happened in the past little while. Kari and Jordan have been married for two months already and I haven't added pictures...mainly because I don't have any yet, but also because I seem to forget that I have a blog! I love to keep a record of what is going on, I just don't take the time to do it.

It has been canning time around our house. That should tell anyone who has preserved food at home what it's been like. Very busy, very fulfilling, and so fun! I love to see the jars all lined up on the shelves with the bright colors and prospects of what they will be like when we open them during the winter. I have tried a few new recipes and I am excited to try them out. Vegetable soup... a little on the spicy side, and spaghetti sauce... a little mild, but just what is needed for certain Italian dishes. Add those to green beans, whole tomatoes, pickled beets, peaches and I will be doing apple pie filling and carrots...I guess we will eat better when it's cold outside!

My grandkids are growing up. My oldest..Jessie is now 16. I swear it wasn't that long ago when her dad was that age! Now he is 38 and I swear it wasn't that long ago that I was that age! My youngest granddaughters are no longer babies...They are the cutest little things you ever saw. I am so blessed to have the grandchildren that I do. I am also grateful to their mothers for going through the process of having them and raising them...just for me!!! ( I know...I have learned to share them...but it is hard!) I really don't think there is anything better on earth than being a grandma! Not that I didn't think it was great being a mom...Just that grandchildren are different. I do believe they accept you for whoever you are , whereas our kids weren't so sure on the acceptance part! So...if any of my kids are reading this...you know what to do to keep those little ones coming!!!

The ranch is beautiful this time of year. I had planned on having a painting retreat for artists to come up and have a chance of painting outdoors and seeing the beautiful fall colors. I don't think it is going to happen this weekend. It is supposed to snow!!! I am really not ready for that. I am disappointed too. I think I will drive up there anyway and see how it is. I can paint in the cabin and be perfectly content! Maybe some of the artists like to paint in the snow...

We got to go help Gina paint the outside of her house and put some of the rock on the front side of it. It was so much fun being there and working and hugging my two handsome grandsons that I don't get to see very often. It was a fast weekend, but a good one. It was her birthday present from us. It made a difference to the house. I love the color and look of it. When it is finished it will be awesome!

We started the "Party House" in our back yard. I am finally going to get a shop and a place where the family can go to have dinners and parties. We got the cement poured for the foundation and floors last week. Now, if the weather will cooperate, we will start the walls next week.

Life marches on... And I am trying hard to keep in step!

2011-04-13T09:47:00.003-06:00

My baby is getting married....I don't know whether to be happy or cry!

I am happy for her, she has found a wonderful young man to spend her life with. It is what we have been preparing her for... being ready to live a new life with someone new and moving on. I just don't know if I'm ready to let this part of my life go.

It wasn't easy with any of the kids, but I have been excited to have them venture out and experience marriage. It's just that she is my last one. The baby. A time to change my life too. I will have to give up on some things that I enjoy.. Calling her anytime I want to talk, meeting for lunch when I am over there, shopping and looking for things we like, going to movies, plays etc. Now she will be having to turn her extra time into being with Jordan and making their lives run smoother.(Which is what I want for her) It's just going to be different and I need to prepare myself for it.

Letting go... sometimes it's hard to do, even if it is the right thing to do.

I wish her and Jordan all the happiness in the world, I hope they can stay as happy as they are right now. They are headed in the right direction and in the right way. I know they are going to be able to work together to make it wonderful.

My mothering days are coming to an end... It's time to direct my attention to focus on the grandchildren and see what with be from now on. ON TO NEW AND DIFFERENT THINGS!!!

What blog? And other things I have let slip by.

2011-01-26T14:31:00.006-07:00

It has been awhile since I even thought of this spot on my ever growing computer world! It was once my favorite place to rant, think, play, post and all in all tell about life as we know it. It seems like we get spread in so many directions that some things have to go, and I guess this was one of them.

We have had some great times in the last little while. Curt, Kari, Molly and I traveled to Texas and got to meet with so many of the people Kari made friends with while she was there on her mission. I was greatly impressed by the poeple there. They all accepted us and invited us into their homes with hugs and kisses and gifts of the heart and hand. I learned alot about acceptance and family unity there. It was great! I loved the looks and reactions Kari got when she would surprise the people there. You could truly see the love on their faces for her, which made it much more meaningful to me about how her life was while there.

We had so much fun and we all were relaxed and enjoying it ( except when Curt was driving... and the Navigator would lose it when he would) It's just a good thing that their personalities are somewhat alike and they can take that sort of thing and be ok with it! Molly and I were the quiet back-seat drivers, ok, mostly I was asleep, but that was ok too. I needed the rest of that vacation more than I knew at the time.

We went to the American Airlines Museum.. Kari was in heaven! She saw one of her instuctors there who has gotten a job with them and is at school right now to be a pilot for the company.

We traveled to Dallas and toured the area where President Kennedy was shot, and even though I was young at the time, it brought it all back to me. It was interesting to see it all and realize that we were on the very spot that it happened.

We sampled so many ethnic foods, no Tex-Mex for us! (Ha!Ha! inside joke from one of our new friends there!) I have a new favorite Salvadorian food called papousa.. I am going to learn how to make them. I even bought some of what I needed and then used it in another recipe, so it is back to the store before I try them!

We learned from one friend what a coconut is... she calls her husband that! ( Brown on the outside, White on the inside)

We visited with the mission President and his wife, they gave up some of their time to have breakfast with us. They are wonderful people.

We went to a Flea Market that was 100 acres of booths and goods, we only stayed a while though, it was soooo cold that day. Curt bought me a $2.00 scarf to wrap my face from the biting wind, and that was the only thing I got from there. Of course we couldn't have packed much, so it was ok. Molly got a coat and her monkey hat, which is darling. She had so many comments on it from adults and kids alike! She is a great traveler, we had fun with her with us!

We went to the temple one day and did a session. It was a nice break for us. Molly did homework in the visitor area while we were there. What a trooper she is...

Curt's favorite place was the stockyard in Ft. Worth. So much history and lifestyle that he loves. We went with some of the Solis family and learned alot that day. There is a fun maze there that the kids tried out. I had Molly try putting her left hand on the wall and following it and it worked! I read that in a book at one time and wondered if it was true! Now I wonder if it would work to use your right hand???

It was great getting back home to the snow and cold and blizzard... If you believe that I will sell you some good ocean front property in Bear River! I did enjoy coming home and seeing everyone again. I missed my family and was glad to hold those cute little babies again.

This month (January) has been mostly getting over pnuemonia and feeling better. It is almost gone now, which I am so grateful for. I am so tired of the cough. I will appreciate my health so much more when I get over it. I guess I never realized how tired in body and soul that you can get when you are weak and sick. Hopefully I will stay clear of any more of it. (And I hope no one else gets it!)

Well, this has been a long and probably boring for some of you, blog. I had fun, and I guess that is what matters! Now, on to remembering to keep this up so that I have somewhat of a record of our life. I am trying to be better at recording things, it is so much easier to remember when you read back on them....

Cinnamon Rolls and Ronda...

2010-12-20T10:56:00.003-07:00

Today I am making cinnamon rolls and thinking of a good friend that taught me so much about bread dough when I subbed for a person missing on her team of school lunch cooks...years ago! I am amazed at what brings up memories in this weird mind of mine. I actually am missing her so much and thinking about how good of a friend she was to me while she was alive. I guess she still is a good friend, or I wouldn't have these moments... She left a hole in many lives when she passed on to be with Jesus! I am thankful that they moved into our town and I had the privilege to tend their youngest daughter and get to know them so well. Her family is as awesome as she is, thank you Ronda and family! I dedicate my day of baking to you and what you taught me about letting dough rest, it has stayed with me all these years!

I'm hooked on making quilts...

2010-10-27T17:05:00.003-06:00

I know that if there is anyone out there that reads these anymore, you are all probably saying " Oh, not another quilt blog"...

But, I am going to do it anyway! I finished a bedspread for Kari and I have a top pieced and ready to quilt for our back bedroom, and one being quilted at the church on the first Tuesdays of the month, plus.. I have some in the planning, cutting out stage. I just have to say... I wish I could get them done faster, so I could go on to the next one.

My family is probably tired of them too, but I just like the creativity I can use in changing the patterns and making them my own. There is something about the smell and feel of the fabric and the anticipation of how it will look when it is done. It is a wonderful hobby, although I am finding out; not an inexpensive one.

I wanted to do something to make Kari's new room in her apartment her own, so she picked out the fabric and I made the quilt. When I laid it out, it was somewhat blah... too many of the same tones in the quilt. I had some friends that know a lot about quilting, so I took it to them and showed it to them. We discussed some things I could do with it, and I decided to do the Minky flowers on the four corners. I think it made it just right! It isn't at her apartment yet, because I just finished it today, but I hope it makes it more like home to her when she gets it.

The other quilt on here is the one that is not quilted yet. It took a long time to finish it because I did so many other ones in between. I think I got a little tired of it, for some reason..:0) It just was laying around TOO long! So, I finished it up, but I won't have it quilted until after the first of the year. I have others that I need to get finished first!

I know I must be obsessed with this hobby. I really was looking to find something that I could leave to my kids and grandchildren, that would remind them of me when I'm gone... (If they want to be reminded, that is!) I want them to be able to wrap up in their quilts and know that I made it with love for them. I want them to realize that a piece of me is in every quilt I have made. I want them to feel a part of me with them every time they look at them. That goes for anyone that I have made a quilt for. A sense that they are loved and cared for... I hope they will feel that from me, now and after I am no longer here!

2010-09-29T08:49:00.003-06:00

Ahhhhh... There is nothing better than a new grandchild in the family! Little Bentlee D Christensen was born on September 21st. 22 inches long and 8 lbs. 8 oz. I guess not too little! She is so beautiful and it is instant love all over again! I always like to watch the proud parents of these little ones. You can tell which children are loved and are going to have a good life, by the reaction of their parents. So far, all of mine have been loved and anxiously waited for. It was so fun seeing her in the hospital and how Doug and Em responded to her. She is a wonderful new addition to our family. We love her and hope we can be good grandparents to her! That makes 13 for us... 5 boys and 8 girls. We are so very LUCKY!

Betty's Poppies

2010-09-27T14:15:00.003-06:00

I finally finished the painting that I was commissioned to do. I hope you can all tell that it is poppies. I did it for a friend of mine, that wants it for her sisters' birthday. I think it turned out pretty good. Although, flowers are not my favorite thing to paint, I did have fun with this one. It's on a pretty big canvas, so it was fun to work on a larger scale. (30 X 40)

Homecoming...

2010-08-24T18:15:00.003-06:00

Well, she has been home a week tomorrow, the time is flying almost as fast as it did while she was gone! We had a wonderful reunion at the airport and at dinner afterward. We took shoes from her room and had each grandchild tie a pair around their necks, so that they all "wore" her shoes! She had a necklace of shoes when she was done! (Curt's idea) She had told them all that they could wear her clothes, but not touch her shoes!!! She looked so great coming down that escalator!
On Saturday we had a dinner at the ranch for her. We had family and friends there to visit and eat and just have fun. It was wonderful!
We went to Logan on Monday and got her tuition paid to go to school. She actually got a job when she went to the airport, so that was good. A little spending money for her new truck! (gas is an expense!!!) She is adjusted and ready for life!
It is sooo good to have her here. I missed having her sing in church by me, I realized a lot of things I have missed, just by having her home again!
A sad note... the day we went to pick her up, someone robbed us at the ranch. They took a four wheeler, some generators, the welder, a torch some tools and probably things we don't know about yet. I have to say, the Malad City Sherriffs office is working hard to get it stopped and get our things back. They are doing good and have some leads. I just hate it that people seem to think they are entitled to take whatever they want. I hope they get caught and they learn to knock it off!

granddaughters and fun go hand in hand...

2010-08-07T20:09:00.003-06:00

Can you see why I feel like such a lucky grandma? And this is just a few of my wonderful grandkids! We have a blast!

Changes are coming

2010-08-03T21:01:00.004-06:00

In 15 days, Kari will be home from her mission. This year and a half has gone by so fast! I bet we are going to overwhelm her when she steps off the plane! She has grown and changed, and it is going to be so different for her to have to deal with life again. My hopes for her are that she will be able to adjust to living with our family again, that she will be able to keep the spirit of her mission with her. I hope that when the time comes for her to make decisions, she will have the help she needs to work the answers out and go on with her life. She has so much going for her now. She is a mature young lady with her life ahead of her. I hope that she enjoys going back to school, hopefully she will be able to decide just what she wants out of it, and then works hard for it. I hope she can find a good job, which I know right now is really hard to do. Her Spanish should help her find something that she can do. I hope she can keep the sparkle in her eyes and the love in her heart. I hope we can be what she needs right now. I hope she gets to spend time on her horse, at the ranch, to rejuvenate and get used to the world again. I hope she has the opportunity to attend the temple often. I know of no better place than there to come to peace with whatever is bothering the mind. My hopes are that she will be happy. In whatever she does. We love her and are so glad to have her coming home!

Everyday life.

2010-06-26T18:47:00.002-06:00

No. I'm not famous. I'm not beautiful. I'm not a fashion Diva with money to spend. I'm a wife, mother, grandmother. I am loving this life and I am so glad that I don't have to live in a big city and deal wth all the commotion. I am extremely happy that I can walk outside and sit under my tree, in my sweats or pjs if I want to. I can listen to the birds or walk around the town and see people I know and love to be with.
I just got back from my granddaughters state track meet and I have been reflecting on life and what different people want out of it. I decided that I am just fine where I am. I don't need fancy anythings to make me happy. It is the times spent with family and friends that make it worth it. If I was busy trying to climb the social or professional ladder, I wouldn't have time to do the simple things in life. I guess that is why I am how I am. I like Simple. I like slow moving. I like getting involved with whatever the kids are interested in at the time. I don't need exotic vacations, expensive jewels, top line clothing. Give me jeans and a tee, I'm fine with that.
I'm glad there are all types of people out there. That is what makes the world go round. I say, if you want the fast life, go for it. Just let me be me and I will enjoy life the way I know it and want it to be.
Our home, Our town, Our State.... It's all I ever wanted in this life. Security and a loving family. I have that. I'm happy.

2010-06-07T11:13:00.002-06:00

I am always amazed at the feelings I get when my babies and my grandbabies are born. It is an instant love. I felt this love when I carried my own, but it seems as I age, it gets stronger. I look at these tiny miracles and wonder how one so tiny can evoke such strong feelings. It is complete acceptance and overwhelming gratitude for these special additions to our family. With our newest addition, it hit me even stronger. I held her for the first time when she was a day old, and it took me some time to control the tears that I could feel forming in my heart. We are so blessed to have our grandchilden. I cannot even begin to express the love I have for them all. Mothers love is strong, but I think grandma's love is immense. I am so glad that I was able to have my six children, and that they are able to experience the same feelings. To each of them, I say thank-you, for letting me be a part of their lives, for consenting to bring children on earth, so that I can experience this happiness. I love you all!

Hannah Lyn Christensen.. Welcome to this crazy, wonderful family! We love you!!! Congratulations Jim, Shauntae and Wyatt! You have a beautiful family!

Daren

2010-05-17T09:01:00.002-06:00

I have been putting off this post, trying to come to terms with emotions and everything else that pops up when you have a death in the family.... I didn't have to go through the pain and Chemo and loss of my dignity, so I have no reason to be angry or anything else, but that doesn't seem to help.
Watching my brother remain positive and trying his hardest to beat that awful time in his life, has made me realize, once again, that life is short. I have spent too much time finding the things that aren't right, and passing by the things that are beautiful. I'm sure we all get caught up in our lives, one way or another. I just want to be better at seeing the truly wonderful things that happen in our every day happenings.
He was a great example to me. He was a kind, loving, humble person. He worked hard to make a wonderful life for his wife and himself. He was a great friend and everyone loved him. He is going to be missed by sooooo many people. Not only that, but his animals are going to miss the love and attention he gave them. He just always had a knack for animals. He just knew what to do to help them. He and Terry have adopted animals that have been abandoned and shot and even the wild animals would come to their house when they called. It was amazing.
There is going to me a memorial for him in a week. I think it is going to be more like a celebration of his life. He is gone from this earth, but he will remain in the hearts of many, many people.
I know, "Life must move on".. I will try to make my life more meaningful from this minute on. Then maybe all the people who have gone on before will not have been here in vain. He is now with my dad, brother and sister. I'm sure they are glad to see him, but, we will miss him and we miss them.
The cure for cancer is out there somewhere, I hope they find it soon.

Watercolor Painting

2010-04-21T10:47:00.002-06:00

This is my newest watercolor. It is of the ranch, with a storm in the background. It was fun to do; in fact, I may try it again and see if I can get the lighting better on it. I am now working on some blossoms that we are all doing in class, so maybe I will be able to get it done too. It seems like my painting time has dwindled to almost nothing. I need to get myself in gear and get some more done, or I won't have any for this years fair. I didn't put any in last year because I didn't have any that I thought would work. I hope I can get something ready!

Weight up-date

2010-04-19T21:23:00.002-06:00

Well, lets just say that, for now, I am not in the running for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but, I am seeing a little progress. We have been going for three weeks now, and I've lost 5 pounds, which to some is nothing, but to me, it's a big deal. Mainly because I have lost something! Doing this is making me realize just how long I have been abusing myself. It is time to take control and get back to where I need to be. I am watching and stopping myself from the bad habits more and more each day. I want this to happen, even if it is slow, because I feel if I see just a little improvement, it is improvement! The other people in this challenge are an inspiration to me, when I see the totals and what others have lost, it makes me want to do better! So, thank you to all of you who are signed up, even if I don't know you. You are helping me and I appreciate it! Now I am going to go on, and hope that there is more to report on next week!

On to a new me!

2010-04-02T09:40:00.003-06:00

Well, it's been a week on our weight loss challenge. I have had ups and downs and some yelling at myself for not having enough will power, but I have seen a little weight go off, and that is spurring me on to try harder! Weekends seem the hardest... I guess because we get together more and on Sunday we eat and sleep after church! I am so glad that we are doing this, it will make be feel better and be able to do more and be stronger, which is what I need to get through each day! I am reading some books on how to cook the foods that will help the weight go off, and they are pretty much how I cook anyway, it's the EATING part that I have to control now!!! Anyway, I may not lose the most, but if I lose some, that is a plus in my book!

I don't have too many photo's of me, but this is the "BEFORE" shots. I really hope that the "AFTER" are better!!! Here's to a Healthier, Happier, Thinner me!

2010-03-22T18:47:00.002-06:00

I finished a few more paintings. The first one was for Relief Society. My friend asked several of us to create something that had to do with the creation. The painting of Wyatt was one and this one was Curtis's idea. I call it Matter Unorganized. After Curt gave me the idea, I found a picture of a drop of water and then created this from it. It is an oil painting.

The original is actually deeper in color. I just have a hard time getting my camera to pick up the right colors without using the flash.
The second painting is a watercolor. We did these in a class setting. We all did the same painting looking at one by Ian Ramsey. It was fun and a lot easier than trying to figure out the composition by myself.

I won't be able to do anything with either of them, since they have originated from others work. They are both mainly practice pieces, but I think they turned out ok!

My newest Painting

2010-02-25T15:47:00.002-07:00

Three different shots of the same painting. I was asked to paint something that depicted the creation for a church lesson. This is one of the ideas that I had. Birth is the miracle that I think of the most. This is of Wyatt when he was a baby. It was such a peaceful shot that I thought it would work for the lesson.

I have another idea for it also, from Curtis, that I am going to try. If it works out, I will post it, too.

Daren's Quilt

2010-02-06T14:51:00.005-07:00

(Sorry- the photo was from my phone.. it wouldn't post larger)

I went to see my brother, Daren, yesterday. He is a strong, brave man. He is facing the cancer and living with the prospects. It is so hard to see him being brought down by the chemo, yet he is looking forward to when he will feel good enough to do things again. He has been a great influence on so many people, and he has the support of many friends and family members. I made him a quilt to wrap up in when he is having bad days from the meds. He was freezing that day, so the timing was good! I tried to pick some colors that would cheer him up and the pattern on the big blocks are animals... things that he has always loved! He is an inspiration to me. He knows what is coming, after watching our sister struggle with the same type of cancer, yet he is hopeful that the trials he is on will find a way to help him and the other people who are living with it also. We miss him coming and hunting with us and spending time visiting. He and his wife are in for a time when things are going to be harder. I hope I can help in some way to make it a little easier on them. With his strength and determination- Anything is possible! I will pray for him everyday and hope that he can handle what ever happens.

Snow Day at the Ranch!

2010-01-30T21:36:00.005-07:00

We had a fun snow day today at the ranch. We had friends and family and friends of friends of family! It was a great day with sunshine and pretty mild temperatures. The snow was pretty deep in places. Curt had plowed out the road so that we could get in, so it worked out great! We had the snowmobiles and the sleighs and even had some experimental sleds... I heard that some of the "boys" decided to go down the hill in a canoe! Jenny made lunch for all of us, and we had a warm fire in the fireplace for those who wanted to warm up a bit! It is such a blessing to have the family be together and have fun. I hope we get to do it more often!

Christmas at the Christensen's

2010-01-06T15:46:00.004-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas and New Years celebration this year. We had great food, good people to be with us, a call from Texas that made our day, back rubs, of course we had the gifts and wrapping, tree, a fire in the fireplace, "The Christmas Vacation" traditional movie, laughter, tears, everything that makes a great holiday! I am so thankful for my family and being able to have them with me during this time and anytime that we want to be together!

I was so worried about the quilts I made for each of the kids, I wondered if they would like the ones that I chose for them. It made be a little nervous, but I think they all liked them when they got them. It was fun making them the last two years. When you are doing something for someone else, it makes it so much fun to plan and work on to finish!

Chester got to spend some time with us and we are so grateful to him for all that he has done for us. It was a very sad Christmas for him. He was missing his Bessie so much. Then he didn't feel very good, so he went to Kino's to stay until he is better. We are just glad that he got to be with us for the time he was here. We also got to see Ally and Kevin while they were here. They had a lot of places to visit in the time they were back, and I'm glad they chose to come see us!
My mother was in the hospital over Christmas. She broke her hip and had a replacement one put in. They thought she was going to be in re-hab for 3 months, but she fooled them! She was home before three weeks! She is a feisty, strong lady. I hope I can remember her every time I think I am tired or sick. She is an inspiration to me. She has a walker and wheel chair to get around until she is all the way healed. The doctors and nurses were so good to her, I think she would have stayed there just for them... except she wanted to go home! She really missed her friends and her own bed. She is getting around by herself and has an aid come help every other day. I know if it weren't for Myndi, she would have to have a lot more help! She is awesome and I am thankful that she is close enough to help her.

Kari is doing well on her mission and is feeling so much better... I am thankful that the doctors know what they are doing. One of the medicines is helping her not have so many pains so she can function and still go out preaching the gospel. She has an awesome companion and is in the big city now. A BIG change from our little town! I am glad she gets this opportunity to lose and find herself at the same time.

It has been a wonderful time for us. My hope is that the new year will continue on in this manner and all will be well with all of us. HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!

New Quilts

2009-12-02T12:41:00.005-07:00

I finished another quilt last night. My friend; Cindy, machine quilted it for me. I love what she can do to make my quilts look so good!

We had the blocks as block of the month for our local group. Cindy and I talked about having something like this group for quite awhile, then she and her daughter and I picked out the fabric and the ball started rolling! We have 25 people that are making the same patterns, and learning how to put a quilt together. I never realized how many people are interested in learning the art. I am happy that it is turning out so well. It has been so fun getting to know these ladies better and to see then all progress with their quilts.

We have some who have never sewn and some who are pros... They need to teach me what to do now, they are all doing so well!

My quilt is a different color than the rest, but I think it turned out great!

I am also re-posting a quilt that I put on here, only this time it shows it quilted, front and parts of the back. Cindy quilted this one ,too. It has made all the difference in the outcome of the quilts. I especially like the back of this one, it shows the patterns so well!

I am excited to start a new one and see what I can come up with. I am going to wait until January though. I think this month may go by a bit faster than I plan, for some reason or another!!!

Who would have thought that I would ever get involved with quilting? I don't think my mom was ever interested in it, she liked to crochet and bake. I guess it must have been Bessie's influence that got me interested. It has taken years to get here, but now I am really enjoying putting them together and seeing what I can come up with.

I am so blessed to be able to do the things I like to do, in freedom and with safety. I hope I can create some keepsakes for my family, so that they will think of me when they cover up with them and maybe have some fond thoughts now and again!

A few creations

2009-11-23T17:25:00.004-07:00

I have finished a few projects in the last month. It has been great to see the final results. The quilts are now all bound and and some have been given as gifts. The Christmas one is on my couch, I didn't want to wait until after Thanksgiving to display it. The others are waiting for the right person to give them to, or they will be at the ranch when we get our cabins done. The art is watercolor and the latest ones I have finished. Now, I can relax and enjoy the holidays, and start something new for the New Year.

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! We love you and appreciate all that is done for us!

Halloween day and night

2009-11-04T13:47:00.004-07:00

We had a fun Halloween, even though we missed Trunk or Treat... We decided to go to Antelope Island and watch the Bison be herded. It was a great day. We packed a lunch and spent the day touring and seeing the ranch. The kids got to climb trees, practice roping the stationary cows, see bison, hike, tour the old buildings and be with family, which was the best part of the day. We didn't know it at the time, but Curt's nephew, Chris, was there herding the bison and had a close call with one of them. It is a beautiful place, even though it looks like the desert in parts.( Not that desert's aren't pretty, they really are!) I would like to go and have a painting day there.

We got back in time for the kids to get on their costumes and Trick or Treat. It was a great holiday! We have too much candy left over, but it won't take long to go through it. I believe it is ok to have those little candy bars, you can't count them as a whole one, so you really aren't cheating when you eat one!!! I just had such a great day, I hope we can do more things like this with the family!

Wedding Day!

2009-10-24T17:58:00.005-06:00

The wedding was wonderful, so relaxed and so many nice friends and family that came to support them! When these two get through with living in Wendover, they will be able to take on the world! Life is good.

Emilee's shower!

2009-09-28T19:28:00.004-06:00

I haven't been on here for sooo long. I guess I am one who has got to learn to find the time that is needed to blog. We have been so busy with everything in general, like everyone else. My time on here just kept getting pushed back until more than a month has gone by.

On Saturday we had a shower to welcome Emilee and Paityn into our family! We are so grateful for the family and friends that took the time to be here with us. It was great! I think I haven't laughed that much for years.... They have such a happy family and it is fun to listen to the stories everyone told.

My hope for the new couple is that they can keep that happiness their whole lives. If they can be open and honest with each other and plan together- (everything)- things will work out for them. Life may throw in bumps and bruises, but if they will stay together and work together they will minor. They are starting on their new journies now, ready to face whatever may come their way. I love them all and wish them the very best. I want to always be here if they need me, to lend support and love to add to their marriage.

Welcome to the family!

Pokie...

2009-08-12T09:17:00.003-06:00

To some he was just a dumb dog, but to me, he was a great companion and friend. He was always happy to see me, no matter what I looked liked, acted like or what kind of mood I was in. I know he knew my car, he would see me drive by and watch until I was gone. He would greet me when I got home, standing patiently by the car door until I opened it and gave him pats and talked to him. He would jump and wiggle his body in the funniest way. He was a good dog and I will miss him. He was walking my grandkids home last night and as they got across the street, he followed them right under the wheels of a truck. I feel bad for Scott and Nikki to have to go through that. I know I should have been better at tying him up... he just loved to go with the grandkids and make sure they were safe, then sleep on their couch outside their door. He loved, loved, loved to play catch. I asked Curt to bury him with a ball. He will be buried at the ranch, he loved to go there.. He was Alpha Dog and ruled the other dogs that would visit! I think I have cried myself out now and can face the day without him. By habit I got up and looked out the window to see if he got home safe, I wonder how long it will take me to get used to him not being here? I have never been this sad at a pets death before, It's just that he was mine and I loved him and he loved me back.

Odds and Ends

2009-08-11T10:51:00.007-06:00

We have had a wonderful summer, doing so many fun things, the sad part is, is that it is coming to an end too fast! I wanted to get so much more done while I could, I just kept finding more fun things to do and took up my extra time! It has been a good one though, so I am going to share some of the most recent photos with you. Most will be of my trip to Southern Utah with my mom, Molly, Brooklyn and Bailey. It was hot; but wonderful. We stopped in Nephi to meet Gina and her family for lunch on the way down and then stopped at her house for lunch on the way back! My granddaughters were wonderful to take with me, they kept me laughing and on my toes. (They won the hearts of my aunts, which is neat to see!)

Curt and I also went to his 40th class reunion and I have a photo of that. It was a wonderful evening, great to see friends we haven't seen for a long time. They are going to have an annual picnic now along with the every five years thing. I have to say, I have been to so many more of his reunions than mine. It will be in two years and I want to go to it. I have only went to one, my five year and I thought it was so lame. I am older and somewhat changed now, so I think I will enjoy it this time

Oh, and the latest quilt that I finished, a "Turning Twenty" that I did for Josh and Brooke Dallins wedding....

I have also got some preserving done for the winter, I love this time of year, when I can look in my pantry and see all that I have accomplished. I like knowing that it is done and ready for the winter. Nothing like home canned fruit and vegys to make ameal!

All in all, life is good and we are enjoying it!

Adjustments....

2009-08-05T11:56:00.005-06:00

I'm sure you all know by now that Doug is getting married to Emilee Jones on October 9th. It is now official, she has her ring and it is the most beautiful one I have ever seen!

We are so happy for both of them. What an adjustment it will be for all three of them! First of all, to be married is a big one, to live in Wendover is a bigger one!

I hope Paityn will be able to get used to a dad and mom helping to raise her. She is such a sweet little girl and so beautiful. She has met some of her new cousins to be, and she seems to fit right in with them. I know our family can get to be a little on the overwhelming side... that will probably be the biggest adjustment yet! We are in the process of making plans and getting the list ready for invitations. I don't have pics of them yet, so if I can I am going to borrow some of hers until we get some made. I am just so excited to have two new members is the family to love and welcome in!!!

Helllloooooo... Anyone Out There????

2009-07-09T17:22:00.003-06:00

Just wondering if anyone blogs anymore, or am I the only one out there? I haven't heard from anyone for so long that I am beginning to wonder what is going on with every one! I love to keep in touch and see how others are doing through the blog, and I like to record what we have been doing, since I am terrible at keeping a journal. So.... If you are out there, let me know!!!

Changes have been made....

2009-06-25T13:50:00.003-06:00

The Brigham City North Stake Priest group held camp at our ranch this year. They made improvements to an area, and I think they are wonderful! They had rain the whole week, so I don't think they had any fun there, but now it is beautiful and I want to show everyone the neat ampitheatre we have now, in case anyone needs something like this!

I feel bad that they had to be there in the mud and rain, they didn't really get to see and experience it like it should be. I understand that it wasn't all that bad, but I know what it is like when it is rainy and wet. Not fun!

Thanks to all the people who took the time to prepare the area for the boys. I bet it will be used many more times!

Newest Paintings

2009-06-17T11:37:00.003-06:00

I just got back from taking my entries to the Summerfest contest. We had two days to get done what we could. I cannot believe the awesome work that was there. It will be judged today, awards tonight. Mine is certainly not the best, but not the worst, either. The paintings will then be displayed at the Tabernacle Park until Saturday. This is the first time I dared to put a price on mine, I didn't want to be the only one without it. If you want to see some wonderful paintings, it will be worth the drive to Logan to see them. ( Not mine, the other ones, that sounded bad, didn't it?) Anyway, I learn more each time I do one of these, and just seeing the other artists work is worth it to me. There are so many styles and ideas out there. It is refreshing to see how others put it to canvas.

The other painting, of the Fort and Trees was my entry for the Ogden Art Festival. It didn't get anything, but I tried new things on it that I hadn't tried before. I would do it differently if I had the chance. It was fun, but rainy there, too. I am just glad that I had the opportunity to try and that I have the ability to go out and paint. I wouldn't get to without help from the family and Curtis. The photo's aren't too good, but it's the best I could get.

Clean Shaven

2009-06-08T09:10:00.003-06:00

This is my husband without his beard! There are some of my children that haven't ever seen him without one! He just decided to have it shaved off one day. You would not believe the comments that he has gotten over it. I still have to look twice to make sure it is him. I saw him coming down the road on the tractor, I recognized the tractor, but had to look twice to make sure it was him driving it! He looks younger now, I think it is going to take me a while to get used to his face without the hair!

Memorial Weekend at the ranch

2009-05-26T10:51:00.006-06:00

We spent the long weekend at the ranch. We got rained on, but it was wonderful, we needed the moisture. We had quite a group up there and it was a blast! Kent, Kim and dogs,-Jenn, Alan, kids and dog -Cresta, kids, Molly's friend Savannah and dog - Alan's friends from Search and Rescue and dogs- Jim, Shauntae, Wyatt and dog - Shannon, Cohen, and Ruby, (Shauntae's sister) - Shauntae's mom and dad, Shauntae's other sister Adriana and friend, Craig - Jessicas friends and their family, Kino, Chester and Macie, us and Pokie. Can you tell that we had a group and we had a bunch of dogs??? They finally got along together, mostly. (Meaning the dogs; of course!)

We got in two three mile hikes, I am so glad that Jim doesn't mind walking slowly with me. He cut me a walking stick and that helped a lot! The others were all expert walkers and they didn't even get tired!

The food was excellent, of course! When everyone takes a turn it works out well.

Curt and I got to stay in the cabin, the first time for me! The bedroom is finished enough that we could stay. We are waiting on the flooring for the kitchen and front room, then we can use those rooms too. I made curtains for the living room and bedroom and they look pretty good. I found some valances for the kitchen that look old fashioned and fit it great.

We planted some tomatoes in an old sink, hoping that the animals can't get to them being up higher. They ate all the blossoms off of my pansies, I hope they come out of it and get more. I need to cover them with some mesh wire, I guess. They must have been in heaven eating something that different up there.

Alan brought in a huge water trough with sand in it and it made the best sand pile for the kids. Curt had him pick it up. He had brought up some tractors and plows like his to play in the sand with. The kids loved it!

We hung the hammock that Curt got for Christmas, It's huge and can fit a bunch of kids on it. It is sturdier than the ones we had, so I hope it lasts longer.

We got some trash cleaned up, some sagebrush burned and had a great, relaxing weekend.

Day 8

2009-05-18T09:27:00.002-06:00

Oh, it is so beautiful outside today! I have so many more things that make me happy, I can't decide what one to blog. I am happy that today I get to go meet my nieces, mom, Cresta and Shauntae and we are going to celebrate my mom's 81st birthday. It is going to be fun! We are meeting in Ogden to go to lunch and I think it will be great to be able to visit and just have some fun. I wish everyone could meet us, but work and life just doesn't co-operate does it? I am happy that my mom is healthy enough to do this with us and that she likes to still go and do fun things. I love that Myndi and Mysti take care of her and plan neat things for her to do. Family is great and I love that we can get together!

Day 7

2009-05-18T09:23:00.002-06:00

I don't turn on my computer on Sunday, so you get two blogs today!
I am grateful and happy that I get to have a day to rest on Sunday. There is nothing more restful than going to church, learning the things that I need to do to be better, seeing friends, having family come to visit, and doing whatever we feel like. It just seems to get me back to where I need to be for the start of the week. I love the feeling and I am glad that my husband and family are with me!

Day 6

2009-05-16T09:47:00.003-06:00

Today I am happy because I got to go pick up my order of produce and bread in Brigham. I can make all sorts of good food for my family and that makes me happy! I still can't believe what I get each time, such a variety and such good quality. I am LOVING it! I am a lover of fruits and vegetables, so that helps, alot!!! The group is growing and I hope we get enough from my area to start our own drop off! I think that anything that helps us have healthy food for less is well worth it! I know you probably aren't all that interested, but for my records I am going to list what was in it today...10 apples,10 pears, (pear pie, yum!), 6 red potatoes,5 tomatoes, 5 mangos, 2 cucumbers, 1 honeydew, 8 bananas, 1 spaghetti squash, 8 oranges, a bunch of broccoli, 2 red peppers, and a bunch of lettuce. I have so many ideas for it all, I'm going to get started!

It looks good enough to eat, doesn't it?

Day 5

2009-05-15T19:54:00.002-06:00

I am happy that I got to go have my nails and hair done. I cannot explain what it does for me when I get to go to the shop and be pampered. I come out feeling like a new person! Kim and Holly do a great job and it is a comfortable place to go. I am so happy that we have the freedom to choose what we do and the freedom to do it! I got to meet Cresta, Brooklyn and Molly , then Molly came home with me, another reason to be happy!!!

Day 4

2009-05-14T08:38:00.005-06:00

I am feeling very happy today as I sit and think on how to put in words what I feel about my husband and family. I am not supposed to mention anything about Curtis on the computer, but I am going to do it today. Curtis is the hardest worker I have ever known. He finds ways to take care of us and makes sure things are going in the right direction. He helps the family when things just aren't going in the right way for them. It has been so fun watching him get the ranch cleaned up and the cabin fixed so that we can stay in it. He is doing such a wonderful job. I am surprised every time I go there by what he has accomplished. He even thinks of the little touches, that most wouldn't think of. He gave me some pansys to plant in the front of the cabin, to give it that homey feeling. He is the reason for the family that I have. They are what keeps me going each day! My kids (spouses included) are great! They each have a place in my heart. And what to say about the grandkids??? I could never express the love I have for them! They are my heart, they are each a part of my life that I would never want to have changed. I love them all! Can you see why I am the happiest wife/mother/grandma? I thank Heavenly Father every night for the chance of being these three things. The rest is all frosting on the cake!

Day 3

2009-05-13T10:19:00.003-06:00

I am happy that I got to finish the quilt for my quilt guild. It is a mystery quilt. We were given a set of instructions each month on what to do next, so we had no clue what we were making. I; of course, put off making it until the last minute. We are going to show them on Thursday, our last meeting until fall. Luckily it was pretty simple to put together! I think it turned out pretty good for not knowing what it would be when I picked out the colors. It was fun, I think I will make this one again with different colors. I am having fun learning this art!

Day 2

2009-05-12T10:34:00.002-06:00

I am happy that I got to go with Shauntae and Wyatt to see my mom for Mother's Day! I love to have them with me, Wyatt is such a goer and he makes me laugh! He has some expressions on his face that make me wonder just what is going on in his little head! We had a great lunch, a nice visit that lasted just long enough for my mom, and a wonderful drive to and from. I am happiest when I get to share my life with those I love. I am happy for the freedom of being able to go where and when I want to. It was a great day!

Tagged by Diane

2009-05-11T09:19:00.003-06:00

Pursuit of happiness.. day 1I was tagged by Diane in the pursuit of happiness. For 8 days straight {without fail} I am going to post the thing{s} that makes me happy for that particular day. I also am supposed to tag 8 people. I tag Kino, Gina, Ann Marie, Donna, Brenda, Kim, Jenny and Leslie!

I am so happy today... I got to talk to Kari before she left for Texas! What a way to start my day. She sounded so grown up and ready for the next step! She is going to be great, it seems like she was born for this day. I hope it stays that way for the rest of her 16 months! She has some awesome sister missionaries waiting for her and a great Mission president and wife that will be there to help her. It has been a wonderful morning!

Tagged by Ann Marie

2009-05-08T14:07:00.005-06:00

1. Go to sixth picture folder

2. Choose sixth picture

3. Blog about picture

4. Tag six friends

This is a pile of junk from when we first started cleaning up the ranch. We had a huge fire. Curt is standing in the back watching it. He is a real Pyro when it comes to burning junk! It was good to get rid of the piles that were laying around. Everyone worked hard at getting it picked up and in the piles. That was a year ago, I can't believe the tranformation so far. I love the ranch and I love how hard everyone is working to get it so that we can be up there more. I will have to tell them all that it is time for another fire!!! Marshmallows; anyone???

I tag: Kino, Duffy, Cupcake, Tami, Cindy,Melia!

Mom's vacation

2009-04-27T15:40:00.004-06:00

I took my mom last week down to LaVerkin to see her twin sister and then to St. George to see her youngest sister. It was such a nice time, but it was cold! I expected to not have to wear a coat, it snowed the day we got there. The residents could not believe it! I think we took it with us from here, but don't tell anyone!!!

We just HAD to try "In and Out Burger" ( Thanks Kari, they loved it!) Kari has talked about going there forever, it is her favorite place. Aunt Myrt, Mom and I met Aunt Betty and her friend, Shirley there and enjoyed lunch together.

We then went to Shirley's and got to see all the neat Quilts and Afghans that she makes. She donated one to mom to have as a bingo prize at the complex where she lives. It's pretty and very colorful, whoever wins it will be very lucky.

Mom had a good visit and they got to go to Mesquite to do their partial day of gambling... Mom even talked me in to sitting down and putting a few quarters in... I really don't enjoy it, but I did it to make her happy and have time with her and her sisters. It took about 5 minutes to lose $15.00, so that was enough for me! I went in my car and read and I went through the book about my car, to learn what it could do, so it was a productive day. We ate there and had a great lunch.

We stayed until Saturday and stopped at Gina's on the way home. Mom wants to go see her every month so that she can get nacho's at Los Amigos! She loved it there. It would be worth going every month just to see Gina and her family, and make my mom happy all in the same day! We went home the same day, so that I could be home for church- our neighbors farewell, I didn't want to miss it!

We want to make it a regular occurrence, I don't get to spend time with them enough. Mom and Aunt Myrt are 80, Aunt Betty is a few years younger. I think it's cool that they can get together and have fun, especially since they are the only ones left of twelve kids. Besides, what better things do I have to do than spend time with my mom and aunts? They are wonderful!

Molly and her Musical!

2009-04-09T23:22:00.005-06:00

Molly's 6th grade put on a musical last week, it was so cute! I just can't get the music out of my mind, whenever I start to wander in the brain, I get "Notice me Horton" or "When you think about Suess" or any number of the many songs they sang running in and out of my thoughts! I even wake up in the night and that is the first thing that hits my brain! I think it all stems from hearing the cd over and over again for 4 days, then watching the play three times! I am amazed at the talent that the youth have now! I think we were still having cookies and milk and a nap on a rug everyday when I was in sixth grade!!! I enjoyed watching the casts have fun and share with us. I know she has the bug to be an actress, and she did have stage presence, so maybe that is what she will be. She was an awesome bird girl! Thanks Molly for letting me share that special time with you!

Newest Watercolor- Sunset Romp

2009-03-26T10:08:00.004-06:00

This is my latest watercolor. It is supposed to be of my neighbors dog. I borrowed the photo, with permission, from Austin. I liked how the sun was shining on the canal bank and dog. I will probably tweek it here or there, but I think it's pretty close. Let me know what you think can be changed to make it better!

Ariana's painting!

2009-03-20T17:25:00.005-06:00

I just got finished with this painting that I did for a good friend and almost relative! It took me longer than I thought it would, but I finally got it to the place where it looks good to me. I am hoping that it is what she wanted. I chose from three photo's that she sent me. It was fun and I learned alot from doing it, which is a plus! I can never get the photo of the painting to look the same, so you will have to use your imagination! Hope you like it!!!

Kari's Temple and MTC days

2009-03-18T09:52:00.009-06:00

More photos! Temple day and MTC!

Grandpa Chester and Kari... We are so glad he got to spend the day with us!

MTC

We had such a beautiful day- I'm so happy that she has decided to do this! What a blessing for us all. Thank you, everyone! If we hadn't had all the help in teaching and raising her, this would never have happened. I know that she loves all of you that have had anything to do with preparing her for this step in her life. She will have an experience that will be both wonderful and hard. We love you Kari! Good luck!

Farewell... Kari!

2009-03-09T14:10:00.005-06:00

Well, the time is drawing near, just two more days and Kari will leave for her mission. It has gone so fast, I know the next 18 months will too! I am glad that her talk at church went well. Everyone commented on how her personality came out during it! She did do a good job. There were so many people who came and supported her for the day. So many people to thank, and I only got a few written down that brought food to feed the crowd! I don't know how many came to dinner, alot of them had to leave and go to other things. It was awesome to see how many people have meant so much in her life. I don't know how many of her friends will read this, but THANK YOU for coming all that way to see her! I will never be able to tell my family thank you enough for all their help, either. Everyone just pitches in and helps where needed and I would never have made it without their help! I was sooo tired after we were done, everyone just cleaned up and got things home, then cleaned up there too. I was so happy that they would all help me that way! Now, we just need to finish up on the final preparations for her MTC time. We were going to go today, but it is snowing like crazy and she woke up sick. (I hope she feels better when she gets to the MTC, that will be rough if she doesn't) I just have to say, the photos are in Gina's camera for the temple day, and only two or three from yesterday were taken, so we didn't record very well. Hopefully I will get some good ones from the MTC.

I know that Wednesday will be rough, but it is a good thing for her to do. It will be one more goal accomplished in her life. She will grow and learn and change, but when she gets home, she will still be my baby and I hope she will be able to adjust to us again!

She is an example to follow for the next generation. The first girl on the Meadows and Christensen side to go. Maybe she can start the tradition and someone else in the family can carry it on! I hope that the people in the Dallas area will see how special she is and treat her and the other missionaries in a good way. I also hope that she will learn to love the people and the area well. That is what a good missionary feels toward their service.... LOVE. Dallas ,Texas-here she comes!

Molly and Kari on the play place in Orlando!

2009-03-03T22:08:00.002-07:00

This is what is known as FUN!!!!!

Florida Vacation

2009-02-25T18:19:00.009-07:00

We just got back and we had sooo much fun! Even with 22 of us, things went pretty smoothly, (If the kids dared to tell me what went on, that is!) We got to go do things that we probably won't have the chance to do again, so I enjoyed every minute of it! We went to the beach, Disneyworld, Nascar,(Jason, Jim, Doug, Kari, Alan and Quinton), Kennedy Space Center (Kari, Shauntae, Wyatt, Molly, Gina, Kaden and McKay), Go-cart racing, Swimming, Deep Sea Fishing (Doug took me and Curt, and Jason came with us), shopping, eating, etc. etc. etc. The time went so fast but we fit in what we could. The flights were great and we all made it home safely. Alan's family and Jim were there a week, Cresta's (except Molly) a week and a day, the rest of us stayed until the 23rd. We left on Kari's birthday and got home on mine. What a way to celebrate! The smiles on the faces of our family made it all worth it!

Food and Quilts, yes they tie together!

2009-02-04T15:00:00.003-07:00

I was doing some quilt blocks the other day and was looking for some scissors to

cut some threads. I pulled out the drawer and there were the pair that Bessie had given me one day when she was cleaning her drawers.

They are HUGE and they have her name engraved on the side. I know she must have used them when she was making her stuffed animals, with all the thick fake fur. It made me remember the things that she helped me on after Curt and I were married. She helped me when I was learning to sew. She was good at it and she was precise. She would look at my zippers and make me un-pick them if they weren't straight at the top. It made me learn to do it right if I was going to do it! She made the cutest stuffed bears and animals and the stuffed stick horse, sheep, bulls etc. that she made were awesome. I had to mend the bull the other day because it is falling apart from so much use. She was able to show Gina how to make them and she is carrying on with the talent! She took the time to sew my kids clothes when they were young, just for fun. I thought it was great that she would make matching outfits for my girls. She must have loved them to do that for them! I wouldn't have ever tried quilting if it wasn't for her. I love to go to the church and visit with the ladies and quilt, and I love belonging to the quilt guild, too! She was a great quilter and she liked being with the ladies at the church. They like to remember her when we are there, and I believe she is still considered "the boss" of the group! She also taught me alot about cooking. I know, she never really liked to cook, but, she did make some things that I still make today. I was making fried purple cabbage and some parsnips to go with dinner the other night and that also made me start to remember all those things again. I had never even heard of those two things until I married Curtis. (I have to make the parsnips just for me, Curt can't handle them!) I had Bailey and Quinton for dinner last night and had them try them and both of them liked them, so I guess I can make them for them too! So many times I am cooking something and remember that she liked that particular item. They will always stay in my memory because of that. She helped me learn another side of things that I wouldn't have had a chance to if I wouldn't have known her. I'm glad I had the opportunity.

Bread Day

2009-01-12T15:17:00.003-07:00

Just one whiff of my house today is all it took to put me back in my mothers kitchen. I always marveled at what she could accomplish. Her bread was the best I had ever eaten and I wanted to be able to take the skill with me when I got married. She would very patiently show me how to put the ingredients together at just the right times to make the best bread. It didn't matter that she could have the bread mixed, raised twice and in the pan before I could get mine mixed. She must have known that she was making a difference in my life by teaching me. In those days (yes, I'm in THAT generation now!) we mixed everything by hand. My arm would be so sore for days afterward!

The yeast had to be put in the "just-right" temperature of water and left alone to dissolve and rise. The mixing had to be done so that all the flour would be mixed in, not too sticky, not too firm. It took a lot of effort to get it mixed in and ready to knead. Then the work began. The kneading would take about 15 minutes to get the correct texture. I would flour the counter and pour the dough out on it. Mine would always stick to my fingers, making the biggest mess. Mom's would always be just right. I thought I would never get it right. I would knead the dough until I thought it was good enough and she would pinch it and tell me "Just a little more and you've got it!" We would spread shortening in her largest tupperware bowl and put the bread in, pick it up and turn it over and then put a cloth on it to raise. We would always clean up our other pans and dishes during this time, and get the pans out and greased so that they would be ready. Punching the dough down was my favorite part. It would push the air out and you could smell how good it was going to taste. I would roll it over again in the pan and cover it again. When it was over the top of the bowl, we would take it out and form the dough into loaves. I had the most lopsided loaves you would ever see, but to her they were perfect! If we decided to make rolls with the dough, she would let me form them in any shape that I wanted. We had the most artistic rolls you ever saw! Hers would be shaped, raised and baked and I would still be making mine in all different shapes and sizes. She never told me to hurry or anything, she just let me do my thing! When we would serve them mine were always the first and got the most compliments, even though I know hers were tons better! She would make such a fuss that I couldn't wait until it was time to do them again. It took many sessions with her to get my dough right and the loaves formed well. I forgot to add salt once, and I still check to make sure it is added to this day! My mom formed me by being patient, kind and loving and passing on her talent to me. She let me learn at my pace, never growing angry when it didn't work out. I smell the bread in my kitchen today and I am filled with love and respect for her. She was a great teacher and a wonderful cook. She taught me so much about what I would need when I got married. I have been baking bread for over 36 years. I take it to her and she has me cut it in slices and put it in the freezer to serve to only her "best" friends. She is still making me feel like I am the best at what I do. She will probably always treat me the same. I hope she knows that she made a huge difference in my life by helping and teaching me. She has shown me that there is so much in life that is like baking bread. We need to have experiences added in to form our personalities. We need to be stirred up a little so that we can know what we want in life. We need to rise to heights that we set for ourselves and we need to go through the fire of adversity to be strong. All this from a "Bread Day". It is a tradition that I have handed down to my daughter-in-law Shauntae. She wanted to learn because Jimmy likes homeade bread. Now, that is love! I hope that someday my children and grandchildren will be doing something and fondly think to themselves... "I'm glad mom (or grandma) taught me this!

Newest painting

2008-12-30T11:07:00.003-07:00

I finished this right before Christmas, I painted it for Cresta to give to Chris. He works for the railroad, I think he liked it! I thought it turned out pretty good. The mountains are from our ranch and the train is one Cresta found, the rest is pretty much made up from different photos and my mind. Tomorrow I will start a new one, a friend wants me to paint her one, but hasn't told me what she wants, so I guess I'll just think of something. Any ideas out there?

My new missionary

2008-12-26T08:12:00.004-07:00

Christmas Eve day will always be extra special at our house! Kari got her mission call in the mail, so we had an exciting day! She waited until later that night at grandpas house to open it. She wanted as many of our family to be with her as possible. It is an exciting and scary time for us all. She will be serving in the Texas -Dallas, Spanish speaking mission! She loves Texas, so this is going to be great. She will be in a huge city, so that will be different for her. She is so excited and happy. A new step in our lives and a wonderful experience for her! What a wonderful gift for us all!

Family Christmas Party

2008-12-17T09:16:00.003-07:00

We went to Jackson Hole last weekend for our Christensen Family Christmas Party. It was Kents turn and it is so fun when we get to go there and party! We held it at a condo at the Snow King Resort. Kim works there, so it is great! It snowed on Friday night, so there was a little bit on the ground. Not enough to ski or board, even though they opened then. The family who came on Saturday had a horrible time with the snow, they couldn't even see the car in front of them! I'm glad we went Friday and missed that part.

On the way we stopped to see our friends in Montpelier. We don't see them much, so it was good to visit with them. They are so hospitable and friendly, it was great to take some time just to visit and see how they were.

We only had Jim, Shauntae, Wyatt, Kari, her friend Jake and us. Not too many. I'm glad that the others didn't try to drive it by themselves because it was dangerous. Jim hit a moose... It didn't hurt it or their car, which was soooo lucky. They went a different way than us and a day earlier. We didn't even have wet roads most of the way.

We were in the condo next to Kinos family so it was cool being close to some of the others. Grandpa rode with us but stayed with them. I think he enjoyed himself, but he was so sad during it. I know he misses Bessie so much. We need to try to get to his house more often so he doesn't have time to be too sad. ( Which I guess will never happen, because he DOES miss her so much!)

We had excellant food, good visits, games and excited kids! I think that is what makes it so fun. They are all growing up so fast and we won't have that excitement for too long. I thought it was beautiful up there. I have always liked going there since my sisters family lived there at one time and we would visit whenever we could.

I hope we keep up with the party, even if the family gets larger and we lose some members. It is about the only time we get to just be together. Isn't that what family is about????

Have a great Christmas. I hope you are all ready. I still have a little more to do and some baking to get done, but I am almost there! I love this time of year. It just goes by too fast for me!

2008-12-10T20:05:00.003-07:00

Gina Tagged me on this one! It's an easy and fun one, hope you have fun with it, too!

Tag 4:4:4:4 Here is how it works.

1. Open your photos folder

2. Go to your 4th folder and pick the 4th photo

3. Up load it

4. Tag 4 others

I tag Jenny, Diane, Sondra, and Kate! Have fun!!!

Photos of the Thanksgiving Holiday!

2008-12-06T20:21:00.003-07:00

Dalan and Kaden at the Canyons Gina and Molly- The Canyons

Wyatt fell asleep like this! He is eating a popscicle!

Thanksgiving Feast!!! We are so thankful for all we have, especially our family and friends!
(The post below tells all about it, The photos wouldn't load on that one, so they have to be done this way!)

Thanksgiving

2008-12-06T20:05:00.003-07:00

I am finally going to put something in here about Thanksgiving, since it is almost Christmas! I have not had time to do any blogging, just reading them when I have time! We had 28 for dinner and I had a lot of help getting the dinner ready and with the clean-up, which is great for me, not so good on those who did all the dishes!!! We had our family, Chester and the Knights here for dinner. It was so cool having them all here! Everyone did part of the food, so there wasn't as much stress! It sure is a lot of work for 3o minutes of eating! We did two turkeys and had a little left over, which was great. We got to visit and watch the kids get to know each other. We had a few little arguments, but all in all they were wonderful.

The day after Thanksgiving, we did a little shopping on the way to the Canyons. When we got to the Canyons, there was no snow and they had us in the wrong room. We finally got that settled and Brian was able to get tickets to ski at Park City. Kari got to board for a day and was glad to be able to! It was relaxing and fun to visit. I swear Kino and Brian had 5o friends there! Jason won at Poker, so he had fun, too!
Next year all the family goes to the in-laws. It will be small and quiet. I always look forward to "my" year with the whole family! Kari will be on her mission so it will probably be Curt, me, Cresta and her kids and maybe Doug! We'll have to just be louder and pretend everyone is here! I hope you all had a great one... now on to Christmas, are you ready????
(I can't get the photos to download, sorry... I'll keep trying!)

McKay

2008-11-19T16:05:00.003-07:00

This is my latest painting. I THINK it is done. It is supposed to be my grandson, McKay. It is watercolor. I am trying to learn how to do people, which is scary for me. I know that you really can't tell it's him, but at least you can tell it's a boy! That is a start. I kind of like how it is turning out.

Giving Thanks

2008-11-17T18:31:00.002-07:00

I guess it is that time of year when we really start thinking about what we are thankful for. I have been reading a book called "The Book of Lost Things". It is a slightly dark and somewhat weird book. But, it does have values in it and it makes you think how lucky you are to have the family and friends that you have. ( Not that I don't think I'm lucky... I KNOW I am). It just reminded me to be thankful for who I am and where I am and for the family that means so much to me. I want them to know how much I appreciate all they do and how much I love them all. I know this is short and no pictures.. very un-like me. I just feel the need to express my love to all of the family and all my friends... old, new, young, old and in between. Thanks for being you and being in my life. I appreciate it!

I finished!

2008-11-06T09:54:00.003-07:00

I finished two new quilt tops, they are from some that I started in Quilt Guild. The flower blocks were done by my guild,(the circle shapes) we all did 20 blocks, exchanged them, cut them in fourths, sewed them back together with different colors and then decided how to put them together to make a quilt. I have had mine stored for a few years, not knowing what to do with them. This is what I came up with. The blue and black one is one we did last year as a block of the month. We chose our own colors on this one.I think they turned out pretty good. Now on to the next one!!!

Tagged.. again, how fun!

2008-10-29T19:32:00.002-06:00

1. I have polka dot eyes.

2. I like to try new recipes on anyone who dares eat them.

3. I think dark chocolate is the best... ever!

4. I want to paint at least one really good picture.

5. I am very soft hearted, too much most of the time. I can't stand to see someone sad, or even act like they are going to cry. It makes me cry. It's embarrassing sometimes.

6. I feel like I'm a very lucky person to have married Curtis and to live where I do. I couldn't pick a better place to call home. I love it here and I love the people that I have gotten to know. I want to stay here as long as possible.

7. I dream in color, and most of the time I remember what I dreamt. Sometimes they are so real I wake up mad, sad, scared or whatever and it takes me a long time to realize it wasn't real. Sometimes I think I should have been Stephen Kings sister, because my dreams are so weird and sometimes scary!

I tag... Jenny, Kari, Kandyce, Tami, Leslie, Mysti and Stacie. (You need to save the tag as a jpeg and then copy it in as a picture.) Good luck and have fun! (Sorry Diane, I know you just really wanted this, maybe next time! :) )

Creative minds....

2008-10-27T21:16:00.005-06:00

Can you find Dalan? He's in there!!!

We had some of the grandkids for the weekend. Molly and Tara went to the ranch with grandpa. Brooklyn and Dalan got to come stay with me. Saturday was so fun... they raked the leaves in the front yard and got a huge pile to play in. They had some kids that were passing by come and jump in with them It was fun to watch them be so creative with the way they would pile the leaves on and how they would shovel them out. They made a huge nest and were the best birds I've ever seen!

But... I think the most creative use was on Sunday after dinner.. The picture will tell the story!

I wish I had gotten a picture of Tara and Bailey with the leaves in their hair! They looked like they could be trees themselves! Of course, Quinton didn't get as many stuck in his, but he sure had fun playing hide and seek in the leaves with the boys.

Sunday, after church, we got home and Dalan and Brooklyn had their clothes all over the living room floor. ( I guess they thought it was their dressing room, or something). I was fixing the last of dinner and setting the table, so, I asked them to get the clothes off the floor before I finished with dinner. I was about done when I asked if they were almost done. Dalan told me that he was. We ate dinner and he kept telling us that he cleaned everything up by himself. We, of course, made a big deal out of him doing such a great job. He was sooooo proud of getting done before I did and doing it himself! I started to clean up the dinner mess and Curtis called me into the living room. Dalan had really made sure that there were no clothes on the floor! Once again, the pictures will tell the rest of the story! I think I have the most creative men in the family. At least they keep me laughing, and isn't that what life is about.. having fun and enjoying each other? It was a great weekend!

I don't know how he balanced his shoes on the door of my cabinet, but he did it and he did it "All by himself". Now, that is creative!

PARTING SHOT... Molly in her Sunday clothes. Just thought it was a cute picture of her!

Ramble.. ramble... ramble...

2008-10-21T11:12:00.003-06:00

We have had quite a week, it's been full and fun. I got to have Cresta's kids for a few days and then Gina came up and I got to be with her and her boys for a few days. It is always hectic but always wonderful! She ended up going to the ranch overnight, then Kari, Cresta, Chris, Molly, Gina and I went to see "Thriller" in Logan.

I have been to it with Cresta for about 4 years. We love it! I can't believe the dances that they do. It is very creative and somewhat on the scary side. I think my favorite part is when Frankenstein dances with his wife. She can get into shapes that I would never believe someone could! (I wasn't that limber even when I was young) It is a great night of Halloween type entertainment. Especially if you like dance! We saw John and Jacki there, and that was cool to see them.

Bob and Linda came to visit on Sunday and I was excited to see them, we don't see them near enough. We had a great visit.
I cleaned carpets on Monday. It seems like they get so dirty this time of year. Maybe it's just the way the sun shines on them or something. Anyway, they are cleaner than they were on Sunday, and that is a plus.
Curt got some sod for some of our neighbors and he shamed them into baking us cookies. They were wonderful! Thanks Sue... I know my husband isn't known for his manners..but the cookies WERE good! It seems like he can get away with that sort of thing. We ate well on Sunday, with his help!
I had the weekend off from art class because of UEA. I now have three paintings to get done by Friday. I guess I better get off the computer and use my time wisely!

Something New

2008-10-15T22:56:00.002-06:00

We finally got Kari's quilt started. It is at Relief Society. We have worked on it for two months and haven't even got the first border done. The ladies aren't too enthused to work on it, I guess. Both months I only got two or three to help. At this rate it will take us forever to get done. I really wanted it finished so that Kari could enjoy it for awhile before her mission. I might bring it home and work on it for awhile, at least a little more will get done before next month. I think it turned out cute. My quilt guild ladies all helped on the boot blocks, I did the stars and the rest of it. I had fun putting it together, too. Now on to the other quilts I have started! I have another one pieced and ready to quilt. I'll post it when it gets quilted.

I need to finsih the ones I've started before going on to the next ones I have planned. There are so many quilt patterns and sooooo little time!!!

2008-10-02T09:46:00.002-06:00

Jenny Tagged Me!
There needs to be 5 answers for each question. So, here goes:
What was I doing 10 years ago?1. getting by 2. Tending kids 3. Cooking 4. Art 5. cleaning
What Are 5 things on my To-Do List Today?1. Quilt 2. Go to Idaho to pick up meat 3. Art Class.4. Go to Crestas so I can tend tomorrow 5. Make Grandpa lunch
What are my 5 favorite snacks?1. Dark Chocolate 2. Almond M & Ms 3. Almonds. 4. Bananas 5. cheese and crackers.
What 5 things would I do if I was a millionaire?1. Go to the Ranch 2. Find a way to give some to my family 3.Live like I always have 4. Travel to Italy to see my brother and sister in law 5. Help someone in need
5 places I have lived:1. Salt Lake City 2. Perry 3. Honeyville 4 Bear River 5. Malad at the ranch
Jobs I have had:1Car Hop 2 Waitress 3 Deli worker 4 mom and grandma 5 Secretary and co-owner for our business
5 people I tag are:1. Kari 2. Gina 3. Diane ( Oh, no- one more.. dangit, I know you hate them!)4. Kino 5. Stacie Good Luck all and enjoy my answers.

Another Week

2008-10-01T10:35:00.004-06:00

Another week has flown by. We have been busy, like the rest of mankind this time of year. I have been trying to get some fall cleaning done, it's going pretty slow, but at least I'm getting some done before the winter sets in. I actually love this time of year. I seem to be able to get a lot more done for some reason. The cool weather and pretty fall colors are wonderful. Very relaxing. I have been sewing a quilt top. I just finished it last week and it turned out pretty good. It's nice to have done. Now I can move on to some of the other ones I have started.

I am working on a new oil painting for Gina. She took a picture of a foggy day in the canyon by her house. I am attempting to get the look down with my painting. I tried to take some pictures of it but they just don't show the right look. I am going to post one of them, but it isn't a good photo. I am still working on it, so it will change some before it is done
We had a great time at the ranch this past weekend. We had aome friends come up and see it and I think they enjoyed it. There were some fall leaves left, but they are going fast. I won't get to go up there for three weeks and I am already having a hard time knowing that I won't get to be there. I can see how you can get tied to a place. This one has a hold of me and I know I will never want to let go of it!

Missed Birthday Celebration

2008-09-22T17:28:00.003-06:00

We were up at the ranch this weekend, (surprised?) Curt thought that Kino and Bette and their families were coming so he ordered a pie from the Dude Ranch Cafe. Kino likes to take grandpa there and have the pie, so he thought that we could celebrate her birthday late! They weren't able to make it up, so we just couldn't let it waste... It wasn't the fave- gooseberry, but it was delicious strawberry rhubarb! So, Kino, happy birthday, your pie was wonderful! Maybe next time our timing will be right!

I also caught a few fall shots, it doesn't look like they will last long.
I'm glad I have a camera to record some of it.

Caught up

2008-09-13T23:25:00.004-06:00

It's 11:26 pm on Saturday night. I got home around 7:00 from tending at Cresta's. I started cleaning and washing clothes to get caught up. I'm waiting for the last batch of laundry to get done so I can put it in the dryer and waiting for the floors to dry, so I thought I'd blog and post my two new paintings. I'm sure you are all probably tired of seeing what I'm doing, but it helps me to see them and helps me be more sure of myself when I put them here. I can't explain it, I just know that it is hard to let people see my work, and it's easier for me to put them on here and not hear the comments, than to do it face to face. I guess I'm a coward when it comes to rejection or something. It's also easier if someone likes what I've done, because I never know if someone is saying they like them just to be nice or if they really like them! This way I don't have to decide if they do or not. Cowardly again. Anyway, here they are. The bottle one is in oil, the cow, watercolor. In the bottle one, I was trying to depict candle light on the bottles. I did finish the cow while I was at Cresta's and I was watching Molly and her friend, Niki. They were having a sleep-over. Not much to tending two 11 year olds, so I painted between watching two teen movies and eating pizza and ice cream. (I gained back what little I had lost this week all for the love of my granddaughter and no will-power!) Anyway, the last batch of clothes are now in the dryer and my floors are dry. Sunday can come and the house will be semi-ready. I'm not all caught up, but at least I'm a little closer! I hope you all have a great week!

I changed the paintings... these are the new ones, I think they look a little better. Thought you might like to see the difference!

Treasure

2008-09-03T18:52:00.004-06:00

Our treasure at the end of the rainbow!

We spent the holiday at the ranch. We had a lot of people come up and stay with us and it was wonderful!

Jeff and Lainey Gardner made us homemade ice cream two nights. They now have a following of ice cream groupies!

Alan and Jennys friends came up. The Witts are being adopted into the fam! They bring excellant food and good conversation and so much for the kids to do. They painted t-shirts this time. (It had to be between the rain storms, though!) Lou and Kathy Haslem from Ceder City came up and enjoyed the cold weather with us. We had been telling them all about the beautiful sky at night and how clear the stars were... they never got to see them because it was so cold and rainy. I guess that gives them all the more reason to come see us again. Lous brother Mark, his wife and three beautiful daughters came with them.

Later on, Kathys' brother and wife and daughter came too. They stayed in Malad at a hotel, but spent the day with us. Cresta, Chris and her kids came up and did some re-modeling on her trailer. Jim, Shauntae and Wyatt came up and helped alot! (Wyatt and Uncle Al drove the tractor!) Jenn, Alan and the kids worked the whole time there. Jenn helped with the great meals and we had a wonderful dutch oven dinner one night. I think Al and Lou are going to have to start a Dude ranch so we can have him come cook some more great dinners for us!

Kari had some of her friends spend the night on Friday. (Before the rain) You should have seen how dusty they got when they rode the wheelers! It was great to get to know them better.

We had a great long weekend. We got some more turf laid by the old house, some more shingles burned, fence posts put in, neighbors fences put up, four wheeling, hiking, eating, etc. etc. I won't be able to go for a few weeks because of other things going on. I'm glad I got an extra two days out of this weekend. I feel like I'm home there, and visiting here, which is strange. Maybe it is meant to be. It is so fun to have the family and friends share this with us... Even though we put them all to work!!!

When they talk about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, they were describing this in our lives. It is truly a treasure that we are loving and having fun sharing!

Art, art, and more art

2008-08-29T12:33:00.002-06:00

This is my latest oil painting. It's from Brigham City, west of town. It is hanging in Jim and Shauntaes dining room. They were nice enough to take down the one I had given them before. (It just wasn't quite right.) Oh, well. I'm glad they liked this one!!! I'm working on a real different one now. It's a still life of antique bottles, with a candle lit behind them. It's pretty dark, since there are no lights on, except the candle. I hope it turns out the way I think it can! I'll post it if it does. I'm loving the class and the people in it. I have learned alot since we started!

Tag

2008-08-25T16:18:00.003-06:00

Diane Tagged me...

Four Places I go Over and Over:1. The ranch 2.Smith's 3. Church 4. Art Class
Four people who email me regularly:1. Gina 2. Jenny 3. Kari 4. Joanns
Four places I would rather be right now:1. The ranch 2. sleeping 3. the ranch 4. the ranch (yea, I know I'm boring, but I LOVE it up there!)
Four people I talk to on a regular basis:1. Curt 2. Kari 3. Doug 4. Molly
Four of my favorite places to eat:1.Idle Isle 2. Bluebird 3. Maddox 4. Maple Garden
Four people I tag:1. Kino 2. Kari 3. Kandyce 4. Gina

Quiz from Kim

2008-08-18T10:09:00.005-06:00

http://codebox.no-ip.net/controller?page=misc.QuizCommonWords
... Try this, it's fun. See how many you can get before the time runs out! Let me know how you do, I bet it will be sooo much better than me. I only got 40. I need to study the language a little better! (my score after the second try!!)
Thanks Kim!

New Paintings

2008-08-08T10:00:00.002-06:00

These are my two newest paintings. They are done in oil. I need some help naming them, if you come up with something, let me know!

Exchange Students

2008-08-07T09:25:00.006-06:00

We invited the exchange students from Japan and Korea to come and spend some time at the ranch last Saturday. I will never forget the look on their faces when we brought out the horses and four wheelers!

Lynn and Patty Green and their kids brought their horses up and Kari had her horse, so we had a lot of rides going at the same time! Those kids were sooo excited to get to ride them! We had students from Bear River, Honeyville and Perry show up.

We had a pot-luck lunch for them and the extra activities that we had planned. Cindy Reed brought up a game and some giant bubbles that were really fun for them..(Her youngest daughter fell in the bubble water TWICE!) It was very fun and quite a learning experience. It's great to meet with other cultures and share some of ours. I would bet that they might really wonder what life in Utah and Idaho is REALLY like now!

Life Changes

2008-07-28T07:50:00.003-06:00

Sometimes life seems to be going in the right direction and you feel like you can do it all and nothing can stop you. In a blink of an eye, you turn around and it all crashes down on you. I think we have these moments to humble us and teach us that there is more to life than what meets the eye. I, for one, am thankful for the moments that catch me by surprise and make me really think about who I am and what I am doing on earth.
I have recently had to take a good look at myself and what it is that I need to change to make life easier for those around me. It was not an easy time and I hope that I never have to go through one again. I was seriously thinking about leaving everything I love so that it would be easier on my family. It was one of those times that needed to be clarified in my life. It took two days of being away, with much prayer and soul searching. I just didn't know what it was that I was doing that was causing so much anger and distance from my family. I decided to go to church with my daughter and then spend the night and attend the temple the next day. In the middle of a Relief Society lesson I got the message to "GO HOME!" As soon as church was out I packed my things and drove home. I was able to get the answer I needed because the Lord cares enough about me to lead me down the right path.
Sometimes things get said that shouldn't be said and it is hard to know how to take them. It was the right thing for me to come home and find out just what I needed to do. In all my years of married life, nothing quite this serious has happened. It needed to be out in the open and changed for the betterment of all of us. A misunderstanding and harsh words can cause so many feelings that just need to be understood and then worked out and forgotten. I never have believed that you can tell what another person is thinking, but their actions can lead you to think and feel that they don't care and really don't like you. I have learned (finally) that the most important thing is to ask straight out what the problem is and then work on it. A lot of misunderstandings will be stopped short that way. No more taking it in internally and trying to forget the mean things. I was surprised at the outcome of the problems. I think that life is going to be so much better because of the trials we have just gone through. I am home. I love my husband and my family, even though some of them see me in a negative way, and probably always will, because they can't know what is going on in my life personally. We as humans tend to see what we want to see. Someday, I hope they change their minds and see that I am not that bad after all. Until then, I will love them unconditionally and continue to be happy that I have them, as I always have been. Life is good! I know if my husband and family love me, I can do anything! I will not let Satan and his lies stand in my way. We will have a Christ centered home and we will strive to live the Gospel and all it's teachings. We will be together in the eternities and we wil be HAPPY!

Memories

2008-07-22T22:34:00.004-06:00

This is from Mysti, my niece. It sounds like fun, if you would like to share a memory of me, post it. I will share one of you and we will see what people remember about us! Have fun. Here are the rules:1. As a comment on my blog, leave a memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember! If you don't have a google ID you can post a comment and click anonymous as your identity -- just make sure to sign your name so I know who you are!2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you.It should be funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you (or if you don't have a blog I will e-mail you my memory!).I've done this on a couple of my friends blogs and it is fun to see everyone's memories! Please, take the time to comment and write a memory of us!

Tag

2008-07-22T16:22:00.006-06:00

One Word Tag:.
1. Where is your cell phone? table
2. Your significant other? Curt
3. Your hair? grey.
4.Your mother? strong
5. Your father? remembered
6. Your favorite thing? family
7. Your dream last night? wonderful
8. Your favorite drink? water.
9.Your dream/goal? Italy
10. The room you're in? kitchen
11. Your hobby? art
12. Your fear? fat
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Malad
14. Where were you last night? Asleep
15. What you're not? working
16. Muffins? Yes!
17. One of your wish list items? house
18. Where you grew up? Utah
19. The last thing you did? bills.
20. What are you wearing? clothes
21. Your TV? old
22. Your pets? Pokey
23. Your computer? Compaq
24. Your life? Fun
25. Your mood? contented
26. Missing someone? YES
27. Your car? Buick
28. Something you're not wearing? makeup
29. Favorite store? Michaels
30. Your summer? Exciting
31. Like someone? Yes
32. Your favorite color? blue
33. When is the last time you laughed? today.
34.Last time you cried? ?
Tag to my friends list... thanks Kari for showing me how!

Family Fun

2008-07-14T10:07:00.004-06:00

Cresta and her kids came up to the ranch for the weekend with us. She took some wonderful photos that I would like to share. We had some fun, and some not so fun, as you can see by the pics of Brooklyn and Dalan. I have a hard time leaving up there, it is peaceful and slower paced and at night it gets cold, which I am loving right now. Kino, Grandpa, Britty and her friend Linda, Cresta and her family, Curt and I were there. Curt spent the weekend cutting down trees for the neighbors, the Coopers. They are from Salt Lake and they are so nice. We are glad that we got to meet them. I think it is going to be great to have them so close while we are there. New friends are always great! We are making improvements each week and it is getting to look better all the time. We still have a long ways to go, and summer is almost over, but it is a start!

Latest Paintings

2008-07-07T22:20:00.004-06:00

These are my latest art projects. The pig is watercolor and the mountains are oil. They were so fun to try. My instructor in oils showed me a whole new way to make the colors pop and it was quite a stretch for me to try. I really loved how it turned out. So, I am going to try it again on a different painting. I couldn't get very good photos for some reason this time. I hope they are good enough to see on the blog. The pig was from a photograph, but I thought it was cute, so I tried it. I like farm things and they always seem to get my attention. The mountains are from the ranch, looking west toward Malad. Hope you like them!

Summery Sunnery

2008-06-19T17:36:00.003-06:00

A page I did using Adornit Digital pages. I almost couldn't remember how to use the photoshop, it has been toooo long! Thanks to Jenny, I was able to get some done. It's simple, but it was fun!

He's Here!

2008-06-17T15:07:00.007-06:00

We got the horse last Friday! His name is Silverado, and he seems to be just what we need. Kari and I went to Ogden to meet Travis at their sale. Brooklyn got to ride a different horse there and she thought she "was all that"! She rode it by herself... with Kari leading it, but she was by herself in the saddle. We were supposed to meet Kari's friend in Trenton to put him in the pasture. It was about 11:00 p.m. by then and we couldn't find the pasture or her friend. No calls back, you know the drill. I ended up just saying that we were going to the ranch, so we did. It was after midnight when we got there. Kino, Brian, Grandpa, Bette, Rog, Jim, Shauntae and Wyatt were staying overnight. We woke up some of them when we rattled through camp. Silverado was excited to be out of the trailer. (Which we had to borrow from Hootie Roche and the truck from Alan). The next day we stopped on the way to the ranch to get a bridle and the rest of the straps for the saddle and headed up there. What a horse! Kari rode it to the top of the ranch and back, not even saddle sore! Then the kids had turns, even Shauntae and Allyson took turns. I'm sure they will have longer rides when there are less youngsters there to have their turns! The horse was sooo gentle and quiet. I think this was a good move. I will want to keep it there, but Kari wants it in the Logan area so she can ride it more often. Until we get our own trailer it will stay there. It was fun seeing how excited and happy it made Kari! It was all worth it. Silverado is now a part of the family.

Watercolor Lessons

2008-06-13T12:50:00.006-06:00

This is my latest attempt at watercolor. It's of a farmyard west of Brigham City with the mountains to the east. I wanted to capture the feel of the clouds coming over the tops of the mountain... I haven't quite got that down yet, but I decided to leave it before I ruined it. I hope you all like it, if not, I don't want to know!!!!

This has been changed dramatically... my watercolor teacher showed me what needed to be changed and she really changed it, so it isn't the same now. You can see the difference in it, not only because of what was painted, but because it is no longer mine. So, I guess this blog was really about nothing, which I seem to do more and more these days! ( I do like how she changed it though, I wish I would have done it!)

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

2008-06-12T09:51:00.003-06:00

What a bunch of cuties at Cresta's ballgame! I went to Ogden to help with Cresta's kids while she played softball. Macie was there for her mom and Scott's game, so she came over to where we were to play with Molly, Dalan and Brooklyn. They had so much fun just doing somersaults and running around. It is amazing how much fun kids can have doing the little things! I had a blast just watching them. I got a few photos before the battery died. Of course I didn't bring the camera bag with the extra battery, I never do have it when I need it! The sunset was soooo beautiful, I had to get some of it while I was at it. It was a great night and it helped me have the rest that I needed for the day. Thanks girls for letting me "Play" with the kids.

Road Trip to Lander

2008-06-03T10:09:00.004-06:00

Kari and I traveled to Lander, Wyoming to meet with her friend Travis and his dad to look at some horses. It really wasn't too bad of a drive. We had so much fun just talking and singing and laughing, the time went fast. We stayed at a bed and breakfast that was beautiful. An older home that had been remodeled into the Inn.

We met Travis and went to his dads ranch to look at a group of horses that he thought would be good for Kari. She picked several to ride. We got to go to Travis's favorite cafe for dinner. The town was pretty cool. Kari fell in love with it the minute we drove in! There are so many older stores and businesses to see. I wanted to go to the art center but we didn't have time.

The next day we met his dad at the fairgrounds and she got to ride the ones she had picked. It was funny because the horse she eventually chose was one that neither of us thought we would like! It was skinny and a grey and didn't look like much, but when she rode it, it had the smoothest gait and responded to her more than the others. Some of them could tell right off that they could get away with more than they usually could, and you could see them trying to buffalo her. The one we really liked really started to act up, so Mr. McNiven got her off of it pretty fast so she wouldn't get hurt. It was a pretty Dun and we liked it alot, it just didn't fit her personality and ability!

Mr. McNiven and Travis put so much time into getting the horses ready and letting her ride. It was nice of them to do that for her. They are bringing the horse down for her next week. They are having a sale in Ogden that weekend. Their horses are trained for mountain tours, movies, hunting etc. Some, like the grey, could be used for barrells and poles, if she decides to do that some time.

It was a fun couple of days, I hope that she will have the time to take care of the horse now... If not I know two granddaughters that will be glad to take care of him for her!!!!

Oh, yea, I actually got on a horse and WALKED around the arena!

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-27T07:58:00.007-06:00

We spent the weekend at the ranch for Memorial Day. We were cleaning and fixing fence for the cows that were being delivered. We had a lot of company during the weekend. It was great! We had some extra help that we really appreciated. We got some sage brush chopped down, quite a bit of trash gathered and burned, the metal separated and put in a pile for scrap, a new barrell fixed up for a burning pit, a new invention for the dutch ovens and for foil dinners! (The dinner cooked real well on the old bed springs that they found on the ranch) The weather was pretty chilly and rainy, but we had fun despite of it.

We got to know some new friends and got to visit with some old friends and relatives. It was a wonderful weekend.

Curt and I came down and went to church and put flowers on his mom's grave. It was hard to leave the ranch, but I'm glad we did.

We have new neighbors there... Brian and Kino put the trailer there that they and Stacie bought so that they can come visit when they want. Curt helped them get it set up so it is ready when they are. It's starting to look like a real commune! I guess we were raised in the hippie era... we fit right in!

I wanted to get pictures of everyone who came up, but I missed quite a few when we came home. Our friends from Montpelier came while we were gone and I'm sad we missed them. When we got home Monday there was a message from them. I hope we see them up there again. Jenny and Alan had 40 people for lunch that day! That was some pic-nic. They all said that it was wonderful. It worked out real well with us all chipping in on meals. Al and Jenns friends the Witts had some great food for us too. It is great when everyone helps out.

We have a lot of work left to do, but I have to say that it is fun work. When everyone helps it goes so much better.

Shane Hinck came up and gave us some pheasants for the ranch. We are excited for the wildlife. Curt and his dad saw deer and moose. We of course have the beaver in the ponds, ducks and cranes. I have only seen a few deer on the top of the ridge east of the camp. I hope the weather is better the next time, so that we can explore some more.

Curt said that they ranch was for raising grandchildren. I think he hit on a great idea. They were so tired and dirty when we got through, but not one of them was cross or complaining. It was so cool to see them all get along and have so much fun. They are going to be in the best shape from up there, they hike all over and have already made a secret grove! Cute Kids!

We have great plans and dreams. It will be good to see them come true.

Celebrating 80 years!

2008-05-17T19:06:00.005-06:00

Mom, Kari, Aunt Myrt Kari, Mom, Mysti

Today we celebrated my moms 80th birthday with her twin, my Aunt Myrt. It was at the clubhouse where she lives. Myndi and Mysti (My neices) Cyndi (Their mom) Doris (Aunt Myrts daughter-in-law) and I made the food and decorated for it. ( Not all of it, my family all brought desserts for it too!)

It was so cool to see and talk to my cousins again. I actually knew some of them this time!!! I had to be told a few of them, because I hadn't seen them for so many years. We were looking at photos from the past and the cousins sure look like the generation before them, with a few minor changes!

I think that they were very happy with the way it turned out. So many family and friends showed up to greet them and share the day. It was so good to see everyone having a fun time and see my mom and my aunt so animated! They wore matching shirts and both of them had their hair done so they looked so cute. We had a good time with them.

We had tons of food left over, I sent a lot of it home with people and still brought some of the desserts home. I now have dessert for Memorial Day and Shauntaes Birthday camp-out.

My cousin Wally and I decided to have a reunion next year before we lose any more of our generation. We would really like to get to know them again.

Looking at the photos that I put together really made me see the changes that we have gone through. I don't want to miss anymore of my time here, it goes WAY TOO FAST. Next thing you know I will be the one having the 80th and I will wonder where the time went.(I just want to get there knowing that I spent the time with family and knew them.) Anyway, it was a fun day and I'm glad that we did it. It was good.

Alan's family-Kari- M&M Hannah (cousin) Kim,Braden,Ashley with mom

Looking Back

2008-05-13T15:11:00.002-06:00

On Bessie's funeral day I received word that my Aunt Jessie had died. She is my mothers sister. Kari and I went to her viewing last night in Midvale. I have to tell you that there were cousins there that I would not recognize if I saw them on the street, or anywhere else! There are a few that I knew, the ones we played with as kids and have seen at other funerals and weddings. But, there were some that I had no clue who they were. I feel bad that the family has been apart for so long. My kids didn't know any of the extended family that were from that side.
My mom had 12 brothers and sisters, so the families are all over the place. It's just that as kids we got to go visit and see them and it was great to know them. Now, I don't know them anymore. I felt bad as I walked through the line, I knew my cousins that were there and was glad to see them, but sad at the same time because they really don't know me either! Aunt Jessie didn't have kids, so she spoiled all of us when she would visit. She was little in stature but big in heart. I know that she appreciated the family that took care of her and watched over her home and belongings.
We are celebrating my mother and her twin- Aunt Myrts birthday on Saturday- They will be 80 on May 20th. There are only three of their family left. Their younger sister, Aunt Betty lives in St. George. I can see changes coming in our family, too. It's hard to see these things and not be able to do anything about them. I just hope that when the time comes I will know what to do to help my family through whatever happens.
I really hope that my kids and their cousins keep in touch and I hope that my grandchildren stay friends even after they are grown and moved away! They all mean more to me than I could ever say. I pray that they KNOW it!

Grandma Bessie

2008-05-03T12:52:00.004-06:00

What can you say about a person who has been a big part of your life for over 36 years? That's about the amount of time that I have known this lady. I was dating Curtis and my first meeting was very intimidating. I was pretty shy around adults and I was totally unprepared to meet someone so straightforward and opinionated. It took me a while to get to know her for who she was and what she stood for. She helped me to can food every summer for my family. She sewed for my kids and taught me how to do my sewing better. She took care of my kids when I had emergencies and at other times when she could. She was invloved in Farm Bureau and got us started in it when we were young. She loved her children fiercely and wanted the best for them, no matter what! She eventually accepted me in to her family and was patient with the things that I did differently than her. She raised my husband to be the man that he is today, which I am so very grateful for. She will be missed in ways that may be totally different from anyone else in the family, only known to me, but she will be missed. I cherished the times I got to take dinner to her and visit while she ate. There were times when I didn't know if she would make it through another day, then she would rally and be great again. I felt for her when she would comment that she would like to either get better or die. Well, she got better! She is now preparing the places for her family to meet her again. She has left a legacy and I am a small part of it. Hopefully I can take what she taught me and pass it on to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Wednesday will be our last good-bye and then it will be back to making life the best we can so that we will be able to meet her again and remember our times on earth! She took her next step and we need to follow the best we can!

More Malad

2008-04-28T12:36:00.005-06:00

We spent Saturday afternoon at the ranch. We took Molly, Kaden and McKay with us and we had a great time! We rode the four-wheelers around and got to see places that we haven't been able to before. We hiked, took pictures, played, and the boys and Pokey (Our Dog) ran around until I thought they wouldn't be able to walk! There is still snow there, but we could get up to see the beaver ponds. The cranes were there and they were beautiful! Kaden named a pond "Quacker Pond" because there were some Malards in it and he named the valley "Rock Valley" because there were pretty rocks on the ground. I came up with a name for the ranch, but so far it hasn't gone over too well.. Crane Creek Ranch. We could call it C.C. Ranch then it would be Curt's initials also. He thinks we should keep thinking! Jim thinks it should just be Christensen Ranch, but I think we need a cool name too! We hope to be able to spend a lot of time there, because there is a super amount of work to do to get it up and running. I think it's beautiful, even though there is nothing there! Pretty meadows and streams, mountain views, trees and birds that are awesome! We picked out the sight where we will eventually build our cabin, it overlooks the one meadow and the road leading onto the ranch. Big Dreams.... maybe someday a reality! Then we will have room for everyone to come camp and play!!!

Second Try on Portraits

2008-04-17T15:30:00.006-06:00

I decided to try to paint Dalan, since he thought I didn't love him as much as Brooklyn. (He thought I should do his first, I guess!) I have a long way to go, but at least you can tell who they are supposed to be. I am learning alot about painting with water colors through these exercises. I think it will get easier with each one I do. Watch out Molly...you are next! :)Final painting of Dalan!

Baileys update!

2008-04-16T19:37:00.002-06:00

Bailey had her surgery today. It was more complicated than what the doctors thought. The growth (tumor, cyst, whatever it was) grew in to her jaw and around the permanent tooth that hadn't come up yet. They had to remove the tooth and a portion of the jaw to get it out. They sent it to the lab to see if they could tell what it was. She is still sleepy from the surgery, so I didn't get to see her when I went down there. Jenny said that she could be numb in her jaw area for up to 6 weeks. I just feel for her, having to go through surgery this young. I hope they got it all out and it won't come back. She is a tough girl, so I'm sure she will get better fast! That is one thing about being young, your body can get going much faster! I'll post more when I know more.

New Ranch

2008-04-12T21:53:00.003-06:00

Well, it's official... we signed on the ranch in Malad, Idaho on Friday! We are sooooo excited for the new adventure that this will lead us on. It will be a change from the farming that we have been doing for so many years. We attempted to go look at it after we signed, it still was snowed in and so muddy that we didn't walk too far. ( I will know not to wear my Crocs next time, I absolutely ruined my socks and all I did was walk around the car to get in the other side!) We have been dreaming of this since we found out we would have to roll the land over after the farm sold. We can now settle down for awhile and maybe get the sleep that we both need. I didn't realize how stressful it really has been until we got home on Friday night. I think I had a small meltdown! Luckily I had some grandkids here and they got me back on track quick! We have big plans for the clean up and changes that need to be made. We have our friend, Travis, looking for Kari and the grandkids some horses. It is remote and there are no amenities at all. We will be pioneers for awhile until we figure things out. My family will have this for generations, I hope. It is for them and for our future family members that we may never know here, but we will in the eternities. Life is good. We never know what is around the corner, this time it was a good surprise. Now on to the next path; we'll see where that leads!

Update on Bailey

2008-04-12T21:49:00.002-06:00

Next Wednesday is the day to remove the lump in Bailey's mouth. They think it might be what is supposed to push the baby tooth out... gone wrong. They'll know more then. She knows it has to come out, but you can't use the word surgery or she gets scared. Thank you all for praying for her and supporting us in this. It's been scary, I think more for us than her, she is doing well with it!

Taking a Closer Look

2008-04-09T09:31:00.002-06:00

We have just been hit with something in our family that has made us realize just how fast life can change and put a whole new outlook on life in general. We were going along with our everday business, with the usual ups and downs that come with living. Of course nothing is ever the way you think it should be, but you make the best and keep going. Things usually turn out the way they are supposed to, and then you move to the next thing that is on the agenda. This week has been the one that changed all of that.
Our granddaughter, Bailey, told her dad that she had a weird lump in her mouth that didn't feel quite right. Alan could feel it on the outside of her jaw. They have been having dental work done, so he thought it had something to do with her baby tooth or the new tooth coming in. He had Jen make an appointment with the dentist and they went this week. He took an x-ray and sent her to a specialist. He did a cat-scan and she went to the hospital. They took a bi-opsy and told her to come back Thursday. We will know more then. She is swollen and sore. She has been going to school and doing the best she can with a drain and open cut in her mouth.
I just can't believe that our little Baby Bee has to deal with this kind of a trauma now. She knows that whatever it is will have to come out, but mention surgery and she gets so scared. We have to be careful not to call it that.
We called our friend in Salt Lake who is an oral surgeon and he knows the doctor they are going to and said that he was an excellant choice to take her to. He said it sounded like a cyst and I think the other doctors called it that too. They don't know until the tests and scan results come back how deep or even where it is situated. It looks like it encompasses her permanent tooth, but they don't know for sure.
I am so glad that her parents are wise enough to get her checked. If it would have been me, I would have told her to deal with it until I could get her in to the dentist. Thinking that it was just her tooth coming in. It goes to show me that I need to pay more attention to what they are telling me so that I can be on top of things. I didn't even know that she had anything going on. Now, what kind of grandma is that?
My kids and grandkids are so important to me. I HATE to see any of them sad or hurt. I can't do anything to make them better. I feel like I need to be able to make it all better, which I know I can't. I am so glad that there are trained Doctors out there who know what to do and will help her get through this.
If you will, please pray for her today and tomorrow so that she can get through this without too
much stress. I know that will help her more than anything I can do.

Latest atttempt at watercolor

2008-03-31T11:46:00.002-06:00

This is my first attempt at a value painting. I decided to try a portrait, since I just finished a drawing class on portraits. I know it needs help, but I can almost tell who it is supposed to be, which is good for me:) I can make people look like people, but not like they look like... make sense? I had fun trying, which is the best part. I just wanted to share it with all of you and see what you think!

Easter Craziness!

2008-03-24T16:38:00.005-06:00

Happy Easter to all of you! I got up Sunday and put some eggs on to boil because I had this cute phone call from Quinton asking if I was making deviled eggs for dinner. I sure was glad I had them cooking! I wouldn't want to let him down. Anyway they were all cooked and getting cooled when Kari got up. She asked me where her boiled eggs were. She looked in the fridge and they weren't there! I told her that I had boiled 2 dozen so there were plenty. It turns out that I took her boiled eggs and re-boiled them with mine! She had even marked on the package that they were boiled. I never even glanced at the package... I was in a hurry to get them done before church! Needless to say, the eggs were well done! ( She is ready to have me committed)

We had a great day at church and a great family dinner, well, partial family dinner. Doug, Jim, Shauntae, Wyatt,Gina, Jason, Kaden and Mckay didn't come. Jim and family visited before but had other family stuff going on! The deviled eggs were even pretty good, some were a little rubbery and the prettiest green color you ever saw, but they got eaten!

It's true, all of you young people out there, age DOES make a difference, your mind does seem to go first!