Buttercup Bugs

Merry Christmas 2011

2012-01-03T17:07:00.000-05:00

Another Christmas has come and gone...this one went way too fast. It was crazy..no snow, no money, and the flu. Despite a few drawbacks it was wonderful. I usually get several new Christmas CDs, this year I only got one...David Archuleta. I thought it was weird when I got it and didn't expect much, but it was so great...I loved it. I've almost worn it out. I love Christmas music and listen to it almost year round.

I watched alot of Christmas movies and decided ELF wasn't so bad, and I can even stand Will Farrell after watching it too many times to admit. My favorite Christmas movie is "A Christmas Carol" made in 1938. It has Regional Owen as Scrooge and no one comes close to him playing Scrooge. I also love "The Santa Clause" with Tim Allen. The North Pole in this movie is magical and I just want to go live there!

We had a wonderful family party out in Herriman and reminded how blessed I am to have my siblings. I love them all so much. I love driving around SLC and seeing the Christmas lights. My favorite is Christmas Street. I've been going there since I was probably 6 months old. It always puts a lump in my throat to drive down that street. I remember back to my childhood and also taking my own kids there when they were small. The same sign has hung over the street for at least 56 years! I just love it.

I baked alot and ate alot of my baking. I made several batches of divinity and ate most of it myself...that is until I got sick...The Tuesday after Christmas I got a bad case of the flu...it didn't go away for almost a week, and every one else got sick too. It was awful...It took days to feel ok. If fact today if the first day I've really felt good since Christmas.

2012 is here and with it many hopes and many fears. The older I get the less I take for granted and the more I'm grateful for. I hope I put my time and efforts toward things that really matter this year. I hope I love more and judge less. And spend more time with people I love. Oh and I hope I get to travel!!

Happy New Years!

xoxo

Erickson Grandkids at Temple Square

Madison Christmas Morning

Ornaments

Little Ada

Christmas Eve by the tree in Christmas pj's

Max and jane...so cold I couldn't feel my toes.

Madison...love the green lights!

Red Tree at Temple Square

Reflection pond at Temple Square..The true meaning of Christmas

Fireplace

The Temple...so Beautiful

Ho Ho Ho

2011-12-14T18:40:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas San Francisco

2011-12-12T18:10:00.000-05:00

This is where I spent my weekend! Eating dim-sum, Italian Pasta, Mexican, graham crackers with frosting, fancy cake and steamed vanilla milks. Walking up and down the streets of the city and Mill Valley. Buying fun things for Christmas, getting pampered and catching up on favorite TV shows. Relaxing while watching a Christmas parade of boats with lights and music. But the best thing of all was spending time with my sister Susan. The time sped by and I had to leave...I hate that, it always goes by way too fast. Sister time is always the BEST. So grateful especially this time of year for all my sisters. I'm blessed.

Molly Mouse

2011-12-02T15:37:00.003-05:00

Jane was in a Christmas performance of "Molly Mouse" at the Rose Wagner Theatre. She was the smallest one in the play, and played the baby sister of Molly Mouse. It is a mice version of the Nutcracker, so I loved the music. All the girls dances with mice heads on, the scenery, costumes music and dancing were superb. Jane was beautiful, and a really good little ballerina. We were all so proud of her. It was a fun way to start off the Christmas holiday.

Jane Opening Night

Jane with Sophie, Serena and Mady

Jane

After the preformance

Giving Thanks for Family

2011-12-02T15:24:00.002-05:00

This year Thanksgiving was a big event. Most of the Winegar's gathered to enjoy Thanksgiving and also Mom's 83rd birthday. It was a wonderful day in so many ways. The Winegars are never short on food and this year was no exception...we had so much. We met at Jane's ward and almost every one was able to drop by to say "Happy Birthday" to Mom. I loved being with everyone, I love my brothers and sisters nieces and nephews so much. It was so great to be with them all. The day after many of us met again to golf! November 25 golf in Salt Lake??? it was wonderful. Hope it becomes a family tradition.

Mom with Megan and Heather

Mom with Dillan and Lexi

Heather and Gavin with Jane Max and Ada

Lexi made this cute poster

April and Kim

Madison, Abby, Kate and Lexi cousins hanging out

Jane a cookin and servin

Wendy

Erin, Jane and George with Mom

Jane Golfing

Mitch playing Happy birthday to Mom

Jeff Golfing

Part 2 NYC

2011-11-04T18:02:00.002-04:00

Here we go...the blog site I have used for a long time has changed and I don't know what I'm doing anymore. Oh well.....on to my NYC get-a-way. Here are some photos of New York city in no particular order. I tried to put them in order but this new blog format wouldn't allow me to! I love New York and love to see and do new things there but also see things I've see before. This trip was no different. Heather had only been there once right before 9-11 and Kristin had never been. So we did alot of tourist stuff. We went on a night tour on a big red bus and that was great. We saw Mary Poppins on Broadway (I'd seen it before) but loved it We. walked and walked and walked....kinda like the pioneers! Beautiful weather, so much noise, but great company. Loved spending time with Heather. The Featherstone's were great and so nice to be able to spend time with them. So blessed that they've been our friends for so long. We only had 1 room 2 beds and 5 grown ups, but we had a blast. Thanks Jennifer for making this happen, it was wonderful!

At Battery Park, Lady Liberty is right behind us!

On a segment of the Today Show with Kathy Lee and Hoda (I've never seen it)

At Rockefeller Center

Battery Park...filled with beautiful Monarch butterflies

Cemetery at Trinity Church in Manhattan...had lunch there with the birds.

George...This is where he took the oath as the first president of the USA! Right on Wall Street...who knew? Not me.

The Hudson River..New Jersey on the other side

Featherstones at Grand Central Station

Strawberry Fields...John Lennon Memorial...actually very cool, too bad I can't have a link to hit here and play Imagine!

Central Park...It was suppose to have fall leaves!

Heather at the Today Show

Boston 2011

2011-10-26T17:07:00.002-04:00

Boston

Near Cambridge...Leaves starting to change

Outside Fenway Park

Inside Fenway

Heather, Kristin, and Jen in original seats at Fenway

Heather and Jen outside Paul Revere's home

Inside the "old North church" One if by land two if by sea...

The cemetery where Paul Revere is buried

Sunrise outside our hotel

The Boston Temple

Temple grounds

As close as I'll get to ever finishing the "Boston Marathon"

This was my first visit to Boston, and so happy Jennifer was there as our personal tour guide. she loves Boston and wanted to show us as much as possible in our 2 days there. It should have had beautiful fall leaves but autumn is late this year and only a few trees had changed. Even without the fall foliage it was still beautiful there, and full of history. I love history and US history is my favorite. Some things I knew or remembered quickly. Others well I must have been absent because I learned facts I'd never known before. We took a tour of Fenway park and it was fun. Jen is the biggest Red Socks fan and it was her birthday! Boston has so many Churches too, and an LDS Temple. I was surprised that when were were driving into Boston from Rockport, there it was! Much like the San Diego Temple. We visited several old cemeteries there, one was where Paul Revere, Ben Franklin's parents, the victims of the Boston massacre, and John Hancock (also an ancestor) were buried. Our time there was too short and I hope to get back there again ...

Rockport, Salem and Plymouth Massachutches

2011-10-26T15:50:00.001-04:00

The founding Fathers Monument "Stephen Hopkins" name is there

The Rock that started it all! Glued back together but very cool to see.

Rockport down by the harbor

Rockport

Mayflower 11...not as cool as the original would have been.

Heather and me in Rockport....Wearing the clothes and makeup we left SLC in 20 hours earlier!! Scarry.

Heather in Rockport ...everyone has cute windows.

Back to Plymouth

Street sign in Salem

Rockport...my postcard...check out the churches...the even have their own cemetaries.

The Witch House in Salem...I bought some witch earings there!

The above photos are in random order...I've tried to manipulate them but it's taking too much time! That being said on a recent trip to Boston and NYC we started our adventure in these historic places. Heather and I went there with our long time friends the Featherstone's. Jennifer and Heather have been close since they were 3 years old. Jennifer has lived in the Boston area many times and was our guide. First we drove up the coast and went to Rockport. I loved this little town, I felt like I was in a post card! Some buildings there were from the 1600's. There were more churches that people...The whole town decorates for fall. After walking through the shops and going down by the harbor we drove down to Salem. There is so much history there. I was surprised when I came home to find in my grandmothers genealogy that many ancestors were from there. I'll have to find the time to learn more about them, maybe they were witches! Then we headed down to Plymouth Rock, Jen added this to our tour because I wanted to go there. I knew that I had a great (many greats) grandfather who came over on the Mayflower. His name was Steven Hopkins, I found the founding fathers monument (the people I was traveling with doubted it's existence) but I was stubborn I knew it was there I'd read about it. I had expected it to be right next to Plymouth Rock...It was a little bit of a ride and in the middle homes, but it was there and I loved it. I have to say it was one of the highlights of the whole trip. I think it was for the others as well. Who knows I may apply to be the in Ancestors of the Mayflower club! We drove almost 400 miles in one day! We saw so much and learned more that any history class could ever teach. I already am planning on going back to see and do more there. WONDERFUL AMAZING DAY!

Third Times A Charm.....

2011-09-26T14:49:00.001-04:00

Jane was baptized on Friday and it was beautiful. It was also very memorable. After she was baptized we waited for her to get dressed and be confirmed. Finally she arrived only to be told she had to do it again! She had to re-dress (so did Gavin, in wet clothes) and also refill the fount! The second time he tried her arm came up...what do you expect in barely 2 fee of water. The third time Gavin layed her on the bottom. DONE!She was beautiful it was a lovely event. We went to Heathers after for a get-to-gather...I made the above sandwiches and I loved them. I hope others did too. I made the rolls at 4:30am..... they were cucumber and cream cheese, BLT (tomatoes from my garden), and ham and cheese. The decorations and the photos Heather's friend had taken were amazing. The mirror about the food table is one that Heather found on the side of the road, brought it home, painted it and wow how cute did it turn out. I'm taking the mirror off my old dresser and doing the same thing.....as soon as I have some time!

End of Summer fun!

2011-09-13T16:05:00.010-04:00

These photos are a mix from the past few weeks...I love the state fair and all the displays.

Summer Days

2011-08-23T14:49:00.000-04:00

Summer is almost over..last weekend I spent alot of time with my grand kids. Max and Jane both had birthday parties. I took Jane and Madison up to Park City for fun and school shopping on Saturday. I was so tired that I spent most of Sunday watching videos. It was a really hot weekend, and I thought Park city would be cooler, but I was wrong. The Alpine slide was alot of fun.....if only it hadn't been so darn hot!

People who Made Peru Rock

2011-08-01T14:27:00.044-04:00

Here are some last photos of my trip, their not in order but.... they are some of the people who I traveled with or met during my time in Peru. A trip of a lifetime and these are the people who I shared it with. Wendy WHO?

I'll never forget this little girl Maria. She was such a sweet smart little girl. She spoke great English and when I went to leave her school she ran over and hugged me. Seriously I'll never forget her.

I'm not sure who this is since everyone got sick of me taking their photos....

Susan and Misha out for a ride in Nauta

What a face. All the children who lived along the river were beautiful.

The Medicine man. They call him a Shaman. He blew smoke
in his hands and gave us all of blessing!

At the school. No electricity, no lights, hot as he***, I was about to pass out.
You can see through both the walls and the floor. Happy loving kids who sang and danced with us. It's something I'll never forget, and made me so grateful for all I have.

I had lunch in this lady's home. We sat on the floor since she had no furniture. We ate the food with our fingers and enjoyed a big rainstorm while we ate. She worked so hard to make things enjoyable for us. I loved the meal and felt lucky I got a chance to meet her. She hugged me when I left, we couldn't talk because my Spanish is non-existent but I think we understood each other. I loved this day of the trip.

Last night on the ship, surprise birthday party for me arranged by my fabulous sisters!
We took Jane with us so she could join in the fun.

Our tour leaders and the ship crew. They were all great and

added to the good times we had there.

This is a group photo along the road in Nauta...the boy who took the photo for me didn't
open the lens to my camera! Oh well It was a fun group.

Misha, Susan, Bob, and Denise resting in Nauta.

Bob and Denise getting to head out of Lima and over to Iquitos.

My beautiful sister Susan....because of her birthday I got to have this grand adventure!

Wendy and Susan in Lima

More Children along the river

I took this plastic beach ball with me and gave it to some kids in a little village. While I was eating lunch one day I saw this little by out running around in a downpour playing with it.

There was no actual "favorite" part to my trip. It was all just a wonderful extraordinary life changing experience. I had my 56th birthday while there. This combined with the experience there gave me a chance to reflect and hopefully make some serious changes in my life. The people who lived along the river were some of the happiest, humble and loving I have ever met. I know I'll never see them again, but they made an impression on my heart. I found I could actually love someone with out getting to know them. It was an amazing feeling that's hard to describe. I know I'll never forget them.....

Being with 2 of my 3 sisters was very special too. I have not spent that much time with them since we all lived at home. I'm so so lucky their my sisters I love them so much. There not only sisters but best friends.

We also had others on out tour who started out as strangers but became friends. We may not stay in touch but I learned things from many of them. And even the crew on the ship added so much to my time there. They were great and worked so hard to make sure we had a great time. The last night on the ship was my birthday and the crew got a birthday cake for me and with the help of my sisters made it a very special birthday. One I'll never forget. The birthday song goes "one year older and wiser too" My birthday wish is that this is true for me.

Animals, Birds, and Fish along the Amazon

2011-07-29T16:14:00.015-04:00

I took probably 700 photos of wildlife along the Amazon. Sadly not many turned out very well. I was amazed at the animals I saw. We finished up our trip with a visit to a zoo in Iquitos where I did get good photos, but feel like that is cheating to include those. One of my favorites is the baby sloth below. I got photos of several large sloths way up in trees, but they weren't cute. So many colorful birds and of course the dolphins were also a favorite. Baby Sloth
This bird could talk!

Wendy with a Parana catch

Parana teeth

Toucan...we saw many

Bats taking a nap during the day

Monkey in a tree, he actually jumped down on the head of a man in our tour!!

Another bird, reminded me of an eagle

Capybaras...largest rodent in the world

Two owls.....I was told this was a very rare sighting

The Colors of Peru

2011-07-26T11:21:00.010-04:00

I was looking through some of my photos tonight and realized that not only are the buildings colorful in Peru, everything is! I love color and so I loved it. There are just random shots I took of the color that made Peru so special!

The Amazing Amazon

2011-07-25T15:31:00.020-04:00

Amazing Pink Dolphin!
Going up a tributary

Giant Lily Pads...

The Amazon is a highway for the people who live there

Golden sunset

Another beautiful sunset

A peaceful cove

A flower growing in shallow water

I love this view of the jungle from our boat

My favorite sunset

Another view of the jungle

I just have to repeat that not in 55 years did I once think I'd ever see the Amazon River. When my BIL Misha called to tell me where we were going I admit I had to google it! I was not even sure where it was!! What a loss if I hadn't gone! It's hard to describe the beauty there. The sunsets and the sunrises (harder for me to photograph) The Amazon is officially the biggest river in the world! One thing I didn't count on was the beauty of it. In this post I'm going to just put a few of my favorite photos.....The River only with one exception...pink dolphins! I'll save the people along the river, some of our activities and the animals there for next time. I'm beginning to realize that I could do a whole blog just on this adventure. Erin my sweet Niece tried giving me advice how to make my photos work better, but I'll have to hire her one day and have her teach me how! I couldn't figure it out!

The Adventure begins...in Lima

2011-07-20T10:37:00.018-04:00

A cool museum with alot of old artifacts

A red restaurant...had lunch here!

Many old rundown periwinkle colored buildings

This was in the Cathedral made from tile and very old

The Pacific Ocean...very beautiful

Wendy and Susan in the town square

Me at some ancient ruins

Town square was alot of yellow buildings

I don't even know where to begin, I'm just back from the adventure of my life. So many lessons learned that I never want to forget. I know with time what I saw will fade and I'm a little afraid of that. I want to remember everything. The fun, the excitement, the beauty, how really really hard some things were, the food, the wildlife, but mostly the people, their poverty, and their ability to be happy! Who knew I would love it as much as I did. In a million years I would not have thought of going there, but through an unexpected surprise (Thank you Misha) I was able to go.

In this post I am going to post some photos of Lima. We were there for the first 3 days. I wish I was more savvy at this blogging stuff so I could have multiple photos to see at once, but I'm not all that. In Lima we toured a museum, a cathedral, some ancient ruins and saw the pacific ocean. I took over 2,000 photos (yes that's correct) so it's hard to figure out what to use, plus most are not even down loaded yet! Here is just a sampling of sights in Lima.....(see how backwards I am the photos came out before my introduction! So much for blogging.....later I'll have photos of the trip along the Amazon River, truly a highlight of my entire life (56 years and counting!!)

Birthday Bash!

2011-06-28T15:37:00.011-04:00

Last weekend I went to visit Susan in Mill Valley. That is where she lives. I usually say I'm going to San Francisco, when I'm actually going to Mill Valley, but I may spend time in San Francisco. I love both places. San Francisco is crowded and bustling. Mill Valley is calm and peaceful. Both are beautiful for different reasons. It's like 2 vacations in one. I had so much fun there doing a variety of different things. Eating, shopping, walking, eating, playing games, styling my eyebrows, eating, shopping, riding in cool cars, taking lots of photos, eating.....and...celebrating Susan's birthday! The biggest celebration is yet to come, but I can't talk about it because it's a surprise!!!!! Susan's Flowers
Whole Foods...check out the basil, it was $3.99 a plant!

On our walk by Susan's

Fog rolling in over the hills

The photos below are all taken from Susan's office! I look out on a parking lot all day while I work, and she has these incredible views. She can also see down onto California street and watch the trolleys go up and down the hill. She also looks right down on Grant street where China town is. She can walk out of her office and within 3 walking minutes there are hundreds of restaurants with food from around the world. The only places I could walk to for lunch are Arbys or Subway and both are somewhat gross. Dim Sum does not exist in Salt Lake City. Union square is 2 blocks away. Wonderful shopping. I love San Francisco! Golden Gate Bridge

Alcatraz from Susan's office

Trans-America Building from Susan's office

Coit Tower office with a view

50 Years of Wonderful

2011-06-20T17:47:00.005-04:00

My Sister turns 50 this week. I can say this because not many folks know about my little blog! She would not like me advertising her age, let alone posting a photo of her. I don't have many photos of her because she does not like her picture taken. I do not know why, she is BEAUTIFUL. I have 3 other sisters and we are all now in our 50's.....she is the last to join us! She lives near San Francisco and several times a year I go there to visit her (leave my life in SLC for some fun and relaxation). I'm going there this week...I love spending time with her. Some days when I stop and take the time to count my blessings, I count the blessing I have because of Susan. My life would be very different with out her. I have been to New York with her, Broadway plays, dim sum and sushi not to mention Russian food, knitting and crocheting, appreciating dogs, arrested development, wonderful hand me downs, massages, SAN FRANCISCO over and over, walks, hearing about her world wide travels and a desire to go myself! The list is endless.

My life has been forever changed for the better because of my sister Susan. 50 is just a number, the start of the rest of her life and adventures. I hope to be part of them from time to time. I can't wait for Friday so I can go and celebrate with her......I love her and I'm grateful every day that she my little sister. Big hugs to my sister Susan, how blessed am I to have had her for my sister for 50 years!!!

A Hard Day's Move

2011-06-10T11:56:00.009-04:00

My MOM We moved my Mom yesterday out of her home, to live with my brother in Herriman. It was harder than I thought it would be. We spent the days prior to her move going through her possessions', basically her life. Each time she has moved she has down sized but this was more drastic. She is no longer in her own home. She no longer has her own kitchen filled with gadgets and pans and bowls that remind me of my childhood. She is not longer a block away. She will now lives across the valley....it's a long ways away. She has a lovely room there with a nice bathroom and a giant walk in closet.

Maybe next time I go out there it will feel different then it did last night. I felt like I was leaving a child in a foreign country and wouldn't see them again for a long time. Heather and I cried most of the way home. She's so small and frail and bent over and a little disoriented and maybe even scarred. She started trying to feel at home by trying to decide what wall she would put her cherished photos of her kids...(10 large photos) alarming my sister in law, but I think it was her way of coping with the move. She always looks for the good in situations. (and moves)!

She leaves a lot of wonderful friends who promised to drive out and see her (do they know how far Herriman is?? My guess is no) They all love her and really will miss her there in the neighborhood. It didn't seem as far as I'd remembered on the drive home.....I think part of all this is that I'm used to her calls for a little help. I didn't mind, I love her. I have to say I'm glad she won't be alone at night. But I'm selfish and wish she were still in her own place. With her own kitchen. With all her photos and journals and books and watching "Golden Girls" I know life is a constant change, but this is a hard one for me.

Madison's Big Night

2011-06-03T16:16:00.002-04:00

Mady was in her school play last night, it was "Fanny's Dream". She has been going to rehearsal's and practices for the past 2 months. She was wonderful! She knew the words to every song whether she was in that scene or not. I'm really proud of her, she did such a great job, and we all had a fun night together.

I'm Moving! (At least in my Dreams)

2011-05-25T15:48:00.006-04:00

My new cottage..complete with a gourmet kitchen!

Do you ever wish for a different life? In another place, when things slow down? Well I do. I don't know where these photos were taken I pirated them off the Internet because I want to live there. ALONE!! Fat chance of that happening but I can dream about it??? Oh well back to my real life and all the husle bustle and drama! (After a few day I'd probably miss most everyone I love)! xo My Quilts that I whipped up this month...

My birdhouses..all hand carved and painted by me

2011-05-16T13:46:00.012-04:00

Just for fun I took my Grandkids up to Temple Square yesterday. I was actually being selfish...I had driven past a couple of times and really wanted to go back and enjoy the beauty there. I almost waited too long, another week and the tulips would have been gone. The daffodils were gone already. It was stunning. The colors were breathtaking. We spent 4 hours there and we all enjoyed every minute. It was seriously the best day of the year so far so we lucked out.

My Mom

2011-05-09T16:37:00.006-04:00

Just a shout out for my favorite Mom! She's a beauty. I love her younger photos, she is so full of hope and happiness. As she has aged I still see these same two qualities in her. She believes her kids are perfect (selective memory) loves her grand kids. Likes phone calls. Loves visitors, even when they just drop by (something I hate). Always wants to know what she can do to help. Keeps a daily journal (even if no one can read her writing) and never goes to bed without praying. I wish I were more like her, but so so grateful that she's my Mom.

District of Columbia In Spring

2011-04-12T14:18:00.013-04:00

I was lucky and got to go to Washington DC last week, a short trip, but I loved every minute of it. (Ok I didn't love the minute or two where I almost choked on my steak, but all the other minutes I loved) I stayed in National Harbor in Maryland at a beautiful resort.....I was there for a Hospice Conference. There was not much time to do any sight seeing, but Shar and I managed to see alot. We went to the British Embassy (Shar's a Brit) and the New Zealand Embassy (Shar has family there). We Also went to the Pentagon and saw the 9-11 Memorial. It was a heart breaking tribute to those killed there, both on the plane and in the Pentagon. Of course we went to the White House (outside the fence) We went to the American History Smithsonian. It was a lovely place with all the first ladies Inaugural gowns. I have to say the place I enjoyed the most was Arlington National Cemetery. It was raining when we were there, we got soaked and also left by out tour bus, but I loved it anyway. I am putting that on the top of my list of places to go when I get back there. It was beautiful, serene, and humbling to be there. There wasn't enough time to do everything we wanted but we ran and ran trying to see as much as possible. Spring flowers and trees in an amazing colors. I just loved it all. I took over 500 photos there, here are just a few. SPRING!!

Nation's Capital...A lot of dishonest people work here!

A Park accross from the British Embassey

Arlington National Cementery

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Garden at the White House...

White House

Washington Monument

4-1-11

2011-04-01T16:04:00.003-04:00

Another April Fool's Day is here.....I have been thinking of this for the last year! Seriously a whole year. Now that its here I've got nothing! Madison asked me first thing this morning what I was going to do to fool her.....it will have to wait until tonight I told her......NOTHING! One year sure does alot of damage to one's brain. I've learned from this and will start now writing down my ideas for next April Fools Day. On a brighter note Spring is here....for the first time this year I feel hopeful again!

Eventful Lovely Weekend

2011-03-28T17:12:00.012-04:00

The weekend is over...now I can think about it with fondness and enjoy it all over again. When events are happening it's sometimes hard to enjoy them, it is only afterwards one can think back and re-visit the event, then enjoy it! Bentley was blessed Sunday by Matt (he was a nervous wreck) in our family we don't throw ourselves out there in church giving talks, prayers or testimonies! We try to go unnoticed....Bentley screamed during the whole blessing causing Matt to forget everything he had planned to say. It was a first (maybe last) time he's blessed a baby. In case Matt ever reads my blog the reason for my last comment was because he's such a great uncle and son and brother....and doesn't seem in too big of a hurray to have his own. But he gave a wonderful sweet blessing. We had a dinner afterwards (at 10:30 am) I stayed up all night cooking.....I needn't Have worried it was just our family plus my dear sister Jane who held Bentley while we ate! Scott and Kim dropped by a little latter but it was a nice morning. Then I fell asleep.....

Madison Made the sign for the food table

Later in the day we ran over to Heather's for Ada's 1st birthday party! (she actually turned 1 on 2/19) but has been sick the last month and this has been postponed several times. Heather knocked herself out on the decorations. The photo above was uncooperative and would not post upright. Check out her fireplace, I swear she worked for days on these darling decorations. A fun filled day and night.

On Saturday I also went up to my sister Wendy's with my Mom. My cousins Matt and Tim came for breakfast. What a fun time it was. so good to see them after a lot of years. Neither had aged, and hearing about their lives was a lot of fun. Wendy had a book of poetry that their dad Warren brought back from his mission years ago for my dear Grandma. He had written in it, and she graciously gave it to them. I wish I had some photos to share but it was the one time I forgot my camera!

Heather's fire place

Ada in her Birthday Dress

NOLA...

2011-03-02T16:23:00.007-05:00

Fog on the Mississippi
View from my room early in the morning...it is raining!

A little haunting...but its just fog

This is an artist market place...I was there too early to see the art

St Lewis Cathedral...the oldest Catholic Cathedral in the US

I just got back from a quick trip to New Orleans. I have to say I really enjoy it there. I had a room over looking the Mississippi River. Beautiful weather, and great food. Not a lot of free time but I did get in a few walks around the city. It was nice to get away from the pressures of my real life. Love real life, but so nice to have a little break.

2011 Already....I Blinked

2011-01-20T12:27:00.010-05:00

Newest Baby Bentley

All the Grandkids

Decorations by Heather

Is it just me or does everyone think that time is passing faster? I'm afraid when I go to bed I'll wake up with more wrinkles, grandkids and pounds! I want to yell SLOW DOWN WORLD! I thought I'd post a few of my Christmas photos...Christmas is over officially but not at my house. Decorations are everywhere. The multiplied and I don't have room for all of them! I bought 3 new bins last night...I'll tackle the job again. I always ponder at the start of a new year...what will it bring? Happiness and joy? Sorrow and sadness? Sickness, wealth (in my dreams) travel and adventure? It has endless possibilities. I hope this year brings health and joy for family and dear friends. God bless us everyone..

One last thought......NO surprises this year! I had enough last year!! xo

Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T18:19:00.007-05:00

A busy and Fun Month

High Tea in San Francisco

Sweet Harper

Madison, Bently and Santa.

I've had major computer problems at home and my blog hasn't been updated in a long time.I managed to find a few Christmas photos and wanted to put them up. As soon as I get the atatchment to my Ipad I'll post a lot more photos of the Christmas season and my adorable grandkids! xo Merry Christmas to all.

Ada in the Leaves!

2010-11-12T18:01:00.003-05:00

I was checking out facebook and found photos of my darling granddaughter there! I snagged them for my blog since I hadn't taken any myself this fall. Maybe tomorrow I'll get out and take a few before all the leaves are gone for the winter.

Reflections with Jane

2010-11-05T13:12:00.008-04:00

My little granddaughter Jane is in second grade and loves art like her mom. She entered the reflections contest at school and won first place. I love her art, she did it out of fabric and glue. The theme was "Together we can...." and she added have fun with family! She put herself in a tree. She loves to climb trees. I find her up in my tree all the time notebook in hand, drawing! Madison is flying a kite. Ada is swinging and Gavin and Max are playing. In the right hand corner she has her Mom and her Great grandma "Norma". I love this art and wish I could hang it in my house! Now she goes to regionals. It doesn't matter if she wins or not, I'm proud of her for trying so hard, and coming up with such a fun family.

Jane's Art

Heather's table display with suckers!

Jane's family plus Madison and Grandma Norma! (right corner)

Jane with her art and "Blue Ribbon"

Fast Fun in the Fall

2010-11-02T08:04:00.018-04:00

Fall came and went so fast I can hardly remember it. There were some highlights like a fun fill getaway to my sister's in San Francisco. In fact that was the highlight! Halloween was fun, we had a party at my office, and one here on Halloween night. I have spent some extra time with my Mom and I hate that she is aging. Her sense of humor is sharp as ever. She's 80 and this last year has been a tough one but she never complains. All my darling grand kids were over on Sunday night for a small Halloween celebration...we had a great dinner and Heather lit about 50 candles so we had great alot of fun. All the kids help make caramel corn...Fun times. We also had a week with snow, so I'm going to appreiciate every day left of fall weather.

Fall Sunset...More Beautiful in person
Little Cottonwood Canyon

Union Square in San Francisco...
A Fun Fall Trip to San Francisco...I was told my toes were "rotten"
Jane working during the Halloween Party at Work
The Land of OZ...Halloween Party at Work
The Yellow Brick Road...Office Fun

Max play soccer...Fall Fun!

Fall Fell?

2010-10-15T15:49:00.006-04:00

I haven't got my fall photos up yet....in fact I haven't taken them yet. A few weeks ago my wonderful mother had surgery for a large tumor. I'm not into knocking hospitals but "the mother ship" as I like to call IMC was AWFUL After surgery her doctor told me that she had bled alot, because he nicked a vein, he had to remove more that expected, and she had heart problems during the surgery. He said she could go home in a few hours...are ya kidding me??? Well after she came out of recovery she couldn't breath, her throat was swollen and she struggled for each breath. The RN had to almost force her to breath, and then told me I wouldn't be getting much sleep since I would need to keep her breathing throughout the night..(I don't think so). I finally told the nurse as nicely as I could that she needed to find a room there for her or I would be making 2 phone calls. One to my other sibs and the other to my attorney (bluff) it didn't take long to find her a room. Many other problems were also encountered there that I won't mention. Ok maybe one ... her room was filthy there, hair all along the floorboards and get this.....a band aid with blood on in the her bathroom!

We did finally get her home the next day, with a schedule worked out for the next week. She needed to have someone with her at all times. I spent the first night and left early to get to work. Wendy would be there any minute.......on my way to work I got a call telling me that Wendy had fallen down her stairs and broken her back and her neck. I drove right back to " the mother ship" where she was in shock trauma ICU, It was traumatizing. Our schedule had to be quickly revised, many friends in her ward filled in. Susan flew in from San Francisco, I'm serious this was a serious situation. It made me really think about what was important in my life...and how much I love my wonderful family. I feel blessed to have so many brothers and sisters. As I write on my little blog Wendy is improving, she does have a long road ahead of her, but she was blessed. I'm going to San Francisco next week to see Susan, and I'm going up to the mountains to enjoy fall. Life is still good...just life's bumps.

Getting Ready for FaLL Fun

2010-09-20T15:59:00.003-04:00

Summer is not quite over, and as much as I've LOVED it, I am so darn excited for Fall. My one wish is that it lasts a LONG time because I'm don't want winter here too soon.I'm pulling up my garden and having a garage sale to end the summer...Fall flowers, fall leaves, pumpkins and homemade soup! Doesn't that sound comforting? Family time, fun with dear friends, baking, canning, carving pumpkins. Sometimes a sister get-a-way to San Francisco. It's here you can smell it in the air. I love the seasons every one but the one I love the most is right around the corner.

Go UTES!

2010-09-02T18:32:00.000-04:00

Henry's Fork and Yellowstone

2010-08-17T15:46:00.009-04:00

Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming fun this past weekend. BEAUTIFUL beyond words....I would love to live there, but realize the winter would come and I would be COLD. Yellowstone was the best ever, we saw a herd of serveal hundred buffalo. Coyotes, elf, moose, dear,eagles....(no bears) but alot of wild life to see. I have more photos and hope to add others later. The rivers up there are beautiful as well. Relaxing and peaceful. Nice to spend time with so many at a fun reunion. It was so good to see Mac again. I don't think he knew who I was because he now has Alzheimers disease....it's so sad. But still good to get a hug from him. It may have been my last, and he has been a special person to me for a long time.

My YarD aT NiGhT

2010-08-11T20:11:00.004-04:00

My Red White & Blue Flowers

My Wheel barrel

I LoVe My GarDen in the SuMMer...but I HATE RaTs!

2010-07-29T12:25:00.011-04:00

My SunFloWerS

Jeter Ready for the rats!

My Tomatoes are alMost ripe...can't wait

My Grapes

My fruit and vegetables are really ripening up and I love it. I work all week and spend hours working in my yard on my weekend...a different kind of work and I think much more rewarding. Right now I am having a RAT problem and spending a lot of time cutting low hanging vines down. Also picking up fallen fruit. This is NOT fun...weeding is fun but trying to get rid of rats it not. The ' 0her night we discovered why we keep finding dead robins on the lawn... you're right ...RATS. I worried about my puppy being out there alone the rats are bigger and faster than him.

Happy Birthday to ME!

2010-07-16T13:42:00.014-04:00

Birthday Thoughts

Life is a journey, not a home: a road, not a city of habitation: the enjoyments and blessing we have are but little inns on the roadside of life, where we may be refreshed for a moment, that we may with new strenght press on to the end...

I loved my birthday! Not the getting older part but the rest of it! Family, wishes and it also makes me think what I want to do with my life in the coming year...I made a list of 55 things on that list!! We'll see if I can accomplish that!

Meet Jeter & Yogi

2010-07-15T21:12:00.006-04:00

Landon with both pups

Mady with her new puppy

Jane taking a turn

Random Summer Days...

2010-07-11T00:33:00.019-04:00

Summer is racing by. I've had serious computer and internet problems lately but hopefully they are fixed so I can blog all I want again. Here is a snapshot of my family activities so far. More to come in the next few days.The garden is growing and makes me feel like Life is good.

My bloomin Garden.

My raspberries. YUM Black and red.

Yankee watching us do yard work!

Slip and slide fun in my back yard.

Ada was blessed by her Dad...Beautiful day .

JuA new Family. Megan was married in June in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Open House photos will be in another post. My sim card is in Kim's camera, so I don't have those photos.
Memorial Day at the cemetery with Mom and Madison. We took flowers out for Dad, Ricky, jean and Kimberly. I feel this is an important thing to do. Dang mady is almost as tall as my shrinking Mother!

FaMily TiMe in The BiG AppLe

2010-06-07T15:26:00.010-04:00

The Empire State Building is up the street....all and all we took over 800 photos.....I just wanted to post a few. We all had a wonderful time running around New York.....Already planning to go back?????!!

Madison got this Pink Dress at American Girl....and then wanted to wear it everywhere.

Yankee Store in Time Square.

On the Bus Tour

We did alot of other things as well, we went to Mary Poppins on Broadway and loved every minute of it. American Girl was a must...I think we were there 4 times. Rockafeller Center, Central Park, Battery Park, Bus tour, Time Square, Empire State Building, FAO, Grand Central Station, Street Vendors, Food, Subways, Manhattan LDS Temple, Walking and Shopping.....It was a Wonderful Family Outing.

Well the months went by and the trip became bigger and bigger. They had never been to the Big Apple...I love the Big Apple and WALLA A family trip was planned. Not everyone in the family could go but the ones who could began to plan.....Some of our plans worked well, others did not. We planned over the next few months...and it turned out to be an amazing trip. We did get to the Yankee Game and I remembered how much I enjoyed Baseball. They have an amazing field...We all wore our Yankee clothes, and even rode over on the subway.
Last Christmas we gave Matt, Zack and Landon tickets to a New York Yankee game. They all Love the Yankees...their dog is even named Yankee.....They were surprised and thrilled.

Enjoying Ada

2010-03-31T17:01:00.006-04:00

Ada sweet Angel from above

Fingers and toes...

Ada Kimberly Erickson

2010-02-23T12:18:00.002-05:00

She's finally here...6lbs,12 ozs, 18 inches long. She's a doll, a piece of heaven sent down to earth. Babies are just the best!! After waiting 9 long months what a gift. It's much easier being a Grandma, I feel great,(so sorry Heather) and can enjoy this time so much more......I just wish they didn't grow up so fast. More photos to come in the next few days.

Happy Valentines Day!!

2010-02-12T18:26:00.003-05:00

Valentines comes but once a year.....I love red, white and pink together. So much is going on this week that Valentines is sure to be over looked. Matt my oldest son has a big birthday tomorrow! My birthday wish for him is to find a wonderful sweet and of course lovely girlfriend in the coming year.It would be great if by his next birthday he had a gal to celebrate with. Also Heather is having a baby this week...the doctor won't let her go past Friday. Life will never be the same after little Ada Kimberly Erickson is born. JOY!!!

2010???

2010-01-12T00:58:00.016-05:00

Before moving into 2010 (yes I know it's almost the middle of the January) but December was here and gone before I had time to pull out my computer and blog. I've had problems with my computer until last night (thanks Landon). As always December was the most wonderful time of the year! I have always loved Christmas lights and this years did not disappoint.

Winegar Christmas Party was a hit!! After dinner we headed over to the gym for a fun night of hanging upside down!! Kim and Scott planned a great night for everyone.

Grandkids bring JOY to everything!

Remembering the reason we celebrate and rejoice.

Madison and Jane both got another American Girl Doll....a Grandma tradition since 2005!!!

Landon is figuring out that there are tickets to the Yankee-Redsocks Game in Yankee stadium in May 2010!!!

Christmas Morning...Loved my tree!

November Blessings

2009-12-03T15:05:00.017-05:00

November was here and gone so fast this year....I hardly came up for air. I didn't have time to blog at all. Despite being busy it was a wonderful month. Susan and Misha came for a visit! That is always at the top of my wonderful happy list. It was also my dear Mother's 80th birthday! We had a party for family and friends. It was a grand night. She has had a remarkable life. Born in San Diego California in 1929 to loving parents Leo and Elizabeth Cottrell. 3 wonderful brothers, married for 40 years to Wen Winegar. 10 above average kids (don't believe me???Just ask her)not to mention her kids-in-law who love her most the time. 30 adorable Grandkids, 4 great grandkids, (birthday surprise another one on the way) over 80 nieces and nephews and a huge boatload of lifelong friends....what a wonderful life.It was alot of fun.When she reaches her next milestone we're all going to take her out to dinner!! Happy birthday Mom, love you more than you can guess.

Hogle Zoo in the Fall

2009-10-21T01:07:00.010-04:00

We went to the zoo this weekend. I've been going there for years and LOVE it! But this time was one of the best visits. To begin with the weather was a perfect fall day BEAUTIFUL!! The baby animals were adorable. I couldn't fine the baby monkey Heather has been telling me about so I'll have to go back soon. I am definitely putting a season pass for next year on my Christmas list. I also zoomed in on some of the patterns on the animals....they are really amazing.

NoLa

2009-10-16T22:14:00.008-04:00

Can't be in New Orleans with a stop on Bourbon Street

I love the plants on all the balconies

Still rebuilding from Katrina

Shar & Me at a cemetery

St Louis Catheral

I was in New Orleans last week for work. I've been there several times, but this was the best trip by far. The weather was hot and humid but the food was great! So much history to hear about there. Whenever I get to travel with my friend Shar we have a wonderful time. We took a city tour this time that was very enjoyable. The one hick up in our trip was flying with United Airlines. I learned they are NOT the friendly skies any more. Next time I travel it will be Delta, Frontere, Southwest, Jet Blue any one will do, but not United!!

Family Pumpkins

2009-10-06T16:18:00.000-04:00

Conference Pumpkins!!

Sister Time

2009-09-28T03:05:00.011-04:00

Susan's Back Yard
Jane, my only sister who lets me take her photo!

Fog

Wicked

Another wonder time in San Francisco...it's never long enough, but always WONDERFUL. This time I was lucky enough to be with all my sisters. We saw Wicked (so-so good), ate dim sum, Indian food and sushi. Found a store unlocked after hours and called the police (911 opps) Susan will probably get nominated for a good samaritan award! Walked and shopped in Mill Vall. Bought some new and fun makeup. Watched movies and ate tuna fish sandwiches. Walked Hena, started a business on the internet (more to share later this week), and ate more food. Mostly we just enjoyed being together.....I miss Susan not being here in Salt Lake, but it's also great that she lives in such a wonderful and fun place to go visit.....How lucky am I to have such great sisters.

Summer Daze

2009-09-09T00:16:00.004-04:00

HaTS.....

2009-08-29T01:25:00.004-04:00

My sister Susan has taught me many lessons in life! None is more valuable than KNITTING! She taught me to make the funnest hats last year, and recently she promoted me to using round needles and using points! (Do I sound like I know what I'm talking about??? I don't but I do love knitting. I have made several hats, in various yarns and sizes.......Don't want anyone to be guessing what their Christmas gift will be!

My Garden Veggies

2009-07-27T23:42:00.004-04:00

Take a look at of few of my veggies...The corn is also almost ready along with my potatoes, peppers, others squash and my soy beans.....beets are almost there as well WA HOOOO!

Squash...soup's on.....

Tomatoes BLT??

Artichoke Very cute and soft!

July 24 Pioneer Day...One Year Later!!

2009-07-23T13:04:00.001-04:00

MOre thoughts to come on one of favorite Days of the year.....

DoeS My LiFe ReaLLy SuCK??

2009-07-23T10:09:00.008-04:00

This is just a random rant about blogging.....my blog is a little like a travel log and photo journal. Only a few people even know I have this. On the other hand there are alot of people out there who share every detail of their lives on their blog! They are the ones who also share it with about a zillion friends. I have a habit of snooping~Blog jumpping...Dropping into others lives through their blogs. Most times I don't even know these people, or knew them long ago....They have NO idea I am dropping into their lives!(also referred to as snooping) I have to say that some are fun and some are interesting and real. But some are just plain gross! I dropped in on one yesterday of a gal I knew years ago.....her husband was a jerk of the worse kind. Every time she posted, it was all about how wonderful the "king"is. bla bla bla bla bla.......EVERY post! Who is she kidding??? She needs a reality check. Even worse is that on each post she has about 50 comments from friends???(or are they really friends?? they also know the "real" king) posting little tidbits of how lucky she is and what a great life she has. I don't know if she is trying to convince them or herself! It was a clever and cute blog, alot more creative than mine. I guess we each see our lives the way we want and choose...some have rose colored glasses.....that's life.

A WiCkeD WeeKeND In SaN FraNCiScO

2009-07-22T00:29:00.004-04:00

ME.....

Wicked

Excitment in Susan's neighborhood

The fog rolled in!!

I just returned from another wonderful time in San Francisco. Even tho I'm lucky and go there often, each time we have different adventures. Always the BEST thing about the time spent there is seeing my sister Susan. This time she surprised me with tickets to WICKED! I can't say enough about how good it was. It was extra special to me because Patti Duke was in it!!! AMAZING! WE also had lots of fog and many great meals. It's always hard to return home after being there. Thanks Susan again for making me feel like the luckiest person alive.

Happy Day July 16th

2009-07-17T01:14:00.005-04:00

We celebrated tonight in Millcreek canyon and had a blast. We got away from the city heat and relaxed. Great food and it was beautiful there.....This has been a stressful week at work so this was really nice. Tomorrow morning I off to San Francisco!! Just checked and it's much cooler there Hello Susan here I come!

Roasting Hot dogs over a fire is one of my favorite things to do. Thanks kids for a wonderful day, and thanks to Norma my incredible mother who made it all possible.

HAppy BIrthdaY AmERiCa!!

2009-07-05T01:57:00.005-04:00

We had a wonderful time saying Happy Birthday to our country. Fabulous FOOD, FAMILY and FIREWORKS. I hope everyone had a day to remember, and took time to think about how truly lucky we are to live in this great country.

Exciting Times

2009-06-30T22:46:00.006-04:00

June has been such a weird month. Lots of rain and the FLU! Between the rain and being in bed sick I didn't do much in my garden the past few weeks. However I guess it doesn't need me in order to thrive. The vegetables are now blossoming and it's one of the most exciting times of the year. We even picked 5 red cherry tomatoes. We ate them before I had time to snap a shot YUM.

Tomatoes

Red Potatoes

Scarlett Runner Beans

Squash

Growing Every Day

2009-06-23T11:45:00.003-04:00

Mile Stones

2009-06-12T12:39:00.011-04:00

Madison on her way...

Table Display with some of Kim's photos

Yankee was there

Friend & Family

Cousins

Jane with Mady

I don't feel old enough to have an 8 year old Granddaughter, but indeed I do. On June 6, 2009 Madison choose to be baptised. It was also her 8th birthday making it a very special day. Thanks to many family members and friends who supported her. Here are just a few of the photos I took. Kim who is a far superior photographer took some as well.Heather did an amazing job pulling everything together. It was lovely.....Thanks to one and all for all your help and support.

My Back Yard Garden

2009-06-04T15:41:00.003-04:00

I reserve my garden in the back for Indian Corn and Pumpkins. All kinds of pumpkins. I finally got some of my pumpkins planted yesterday. I am planting 17 different kind this year!!! I planted Indian corn a few weeks ago and already it's thriving. I also have a small strawberry patch that's got lots of ripe strawberries. I was asked today if I was going to make jam.....I don't think I'll have enought left after my grandkids and their friends eat them. I't so much fun for them to find the ripe ones and pick them. Jane has never liked strawberries, but tried quite a few yesterday. Can't wait for the rasberries to ripen up.

Quick Trip to Southern California

2009-06-04T15:15:00.009-04:00

Memorial Day comes but once a year....perfect time for a road trip to Southern California.....A few days off work, load up the car and DRIVE away. We had no idea where we were going except south...we kept on driving through to LA. We found the American Girl Store in a fun Mall named 'The Grove'. There found Fecility for Mady, and Elizabeth for Jane. ( You have to be up on your American girl 101) Then we made a decision, probably the wrong decision, to go on to Disneyland! It was fun but CROWDED (what were we thinking it was a holiday weekend)???!!!

Mothers Day...

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

Mothers Day was lovely as always this year. I got a brand new set of golf clubs, among many other gifts. My kids know how much I love to gold, and have been going every chance I get. We ended the day at Heather and her BIL came over in a HUGE eye popping truck. All the kids got to go on rides (that was the highlight of their day)

San Francisco...

2009-04-25T18:12:00.010-04:00

Heather in China Town

Beautiful Spot at the Beach

Susan and Hena at the beach.

Sadly again another visit to San Francisco is over. This one didn't disappoint! We had a marvelous time. We hit the city, China town, Union Square, Yank Sing (FAVORITE Dim Sum) Ferry Building, Ocean, Mill Valley, Britex (HUGE fabric store).We also rode in a Trolley car,a bus,the BART,a taxi and in Susan's fancy Porsche!! The best thing about the trip.....spending time with Susan. I'll have more photos of the whole adventure posted later today.

Inspiration Hospice New DVD Featuring my MOM!

2009-04-16T10:59:00.004-04:00

To watch this DVD hit the HQ and it will go to full screen. Also the link is on the right side! This was a DVD my office made. My own Mother was in it and did an excellant job. Also a plug here for volenteering...it's the best. We have another training starting May 5th.....

2009-04-14T15:18:00.003-04:00

This is how I'm feeling right now..... Work has been so demanding and I feel like I'm running in circles! I did get some flowers planted last night, but work is draining me right now. I am going to San Francisco next week so maybe I can rejuvenate! This little chart is pretty correct except the eating portion should be MUCH larger!! (YIKES)

My Spring Garden.....

2009-04-02T16:58:00.001-04:00

Sturdy little tulips!

2009-03-27T14:39:00.001-04:00

We got a little taste of spring last weekend....now it's harder than ever to deal with the snow and cold. I want to be back in St George and golfing in the sun.

Loving Life In St George

2009-03-08T00:00:00.006-05:00

A gate to where we are staying, I just love it!Beautiful scenery...

2009-03-06T13:49:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it...my home for 3 days. Heather was staying here while I tended for her in Salt Lake. She was going to head back to SLC on Wednesday because she missed her kids & felt GUILTY (don't know where that came from) for leaving them any longer.....the solution she came up with was for me to drive down with them. So thanks to a kind boss (hehe)I loaded up her van and drove on down to Dixie. It is Beautiful here, I don't want to go back. Here are a few photos of Entrada where we are staying. I need to figure out how to make more $$ so I can buy myself one of these!

Spring is on its Way! Yipeee

2009-02-25T19:07:00.002-05:00

I borrowed this photo because I loved it. I wish I could say I had taken it myself. If that were the case I would have been there, and possibly would never come back. This place is SO SO beautiful!!!

Hello Blake...

2009-02-06T10:56:00.004-05:00

Little Blake is the newest member of the Winegar Family. He's beautiful! Wendy my dear sister figured out he was a lucky baby based on his time date and weight at birth.
11:33 p.m.; 8 lb. 8 oz.! Wow. Very lucky with all those double digits. Also: 1 + 1 + 3 + 3 + 8 + 8 = 24 or 2/4, his birthday. I have to agree with her that he is lucky, but mostly because he has wonderful and loving parents. I'm on my way to the hospital to hold my new nephew!

Holidays at a Glance

2009-01-22T15:14:00.019-05:00

The Holidays have come and gone....And I took probably about 800 photos! However I didn't keep up with my blog at all. So heres a quick rundown of the most "Wonderful Time of the Year"...First the beautiful snow.....An Old Fashioned Christmas at Heritage Place. Fabulous Family Christmas Party!

Sewing and Baking and more Baking...

Our Christmas Tree (I loved this tree, it was hard to take it down)
Madison, Max and Jane, made Christmas so Special & Fun

Christmas Morning, just the way Santa left it! Makes you feel like a kid again.....thats one of the reason's I LOVE Christmas so so much. It was a wonderful wonderful Christmas. On to 2009!

Seasons of Life

2009-01-13T12:20:00.005-05:00

My Mother left today to say good bye to her only living brother. I spoke with her last night and I could feel the sadness in her voice. In life some days are harder than others. Some are filled with indescribable joy, but some filled with heartache and sorrow. I wish I could take

HaPPy NeW YeaR

2009-01-08T10:23:00.002-05:00

I hope 2009 is the best year ever. I have so many photos to share, but I've had terrible Internet problems for the past month. Hopefully they will be solved soon. By that time no one will be interested in my Christmas photos! I leave for San Francisco next Wednesday so I can get some wonderful pictures there

Getting Ready.....

2008-12-01T01:47:00.003-05:00

I can't believe how FAST November came and went. I had hopes of posting many photos of things I am grateful for.......not very many made it. Work has been crazy, I've also had a flu bug really, that really slowed me down. This is not the time of the year to be slowed down. Thanksgiving was nice, and it was good to have 4 days off work. Long enough to get the Christmas tree up and put up the lights outside. I can only hope that December doesn't past as quickly as November, but I'm afraid it will. Christmas parties start this week, and so much to do. I just want to slow it down and enjoy the whole month.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T16:30:00.002-05:00

Norma Jean

2008-11-13T02:05:00.004-05:00

I am grateful for a wonderful, caring, loving, giving Mother. My Mom is about to turn 79!She still works part time, exercises each morning, rakes leaves, supports BYU football, heads up a study group (her friend told me that she's the leader of the pack) checks in on all her kids and grandkids. Drives all over town in a car that's way too big for her. She actually is the incredible shrinking woman. She is only about 4'9" now, and in her car she can barely see over the steering wheel. She has strong belief's and is not afraid to voice her opinion even if it's not popular. She has handled some very hard challenges with faith and courage. Above all she loves her family, and is a great example to us all. I'm very thankful for her in my life.

My GraTitude AttiTude... A Season for Giving Thanks

2008-11-12T02:13:00.010-05:00

With Thanksgiving right around the corner I can't help but feel THANKFUL for so many things. Tonight my little granddaughter Jane made me these beautiful flowers. She made them herself out of paper and pipe cleaners. No help from her Mom , she just figured out how to make them (with a little help from the TV!) How lucky am I? After a horrible and stressful day at work, and then an unexpected surprise from Jane. What a way to end my day.....I am so Thankful for Jane and Max and Madison. Grand kids really do make my world go round.

I'm going to try my hardest during this season of Thanksgiving to give thanks. I'll post what I can here and share with the few people who know I have this blog! And Ruth I'm thankful for you, and I'm keeping your sweet Mom in my prayers.

AuTumN The BeSt TiMe of The YeAr

2008-11-04T15:18:00.007-05:00

I enjoyed fall so much this year. I can't remember the colors ever being so spectacular. That being said, I checked in on my friend Ruth's blog to see her photos of fall in New England.....mine don't seem nearly as stunning! I just have to tell myself be happy with what I have,also start planning a trip to New England! Start saving for a new camera lens, and remember to ask Ruth for tips on taking photos. I swear her photos need to be in National Geographic!(love ya Ruth) Back to my fall, it was wonderful. I did so many fun things with my grandkids and kids. Millcreek canyon became a favorite for us. Pulled up all the pumpkins and squash and have been trying new recipes. Roasting hot dogs and making smores in the cool crisp fall weather was just the best!Thanksgiving is just around the corner....what a wonderful time of the year!

FaLL in the MounTainS

2008-11-04T14:59:00.011-05:00

FALL In SaLt LaKe

2008-10-23T04:19:00.005-04:00

While most folks were supporting the U of U football team Saturday afternoon, we were enjoying the parks in Salt Lake. We were listening to the game too, and they won so all was good. BEAUTIFUL fall weather , wish it could last till spring!

2008-10-23T04:16:00.003-04:00

2008-10-23T03:48:00.004-04:00

Wheeler Farm

2008-10-23T03:38:00.002-04:00

Week End Get A Way

Mill Valley....

2008-10-23T03:04:00.008-04:00

My Sisters...my attempt to get their picture!! Hena is our doggy neice! She is always an important part of our visit to San Francisco. If I were a dog I'd want my sister to be my owner. She's so kind to her dogs,I have learned so much from her
watching how she is treats her dogs. It's says so much about a person if they are good to animals.She is the BEST in that department, and I'm trying to be more like her (just ask my kids)

2008-10-23T02:51:00.002-04:00

Bay Bridge by the Ferry Building...

SAN FRANCISCO...October treat

2008-10-14T14:36:00.002-04:00

This is a San Francisco pumpkin! I've never seen one like it in Salt Lake. I'm going to see if I can grow them next year. This one is sitting on Susan's front porch.....I'll have to just enjoy the photo. I plan on adding more photos later on in the day.

Pulling up Pumpkins

2008-09-30T22:21:00.006-04:00

Kimberly

2008-09-27T23:31:00.001-04:00

Sometimes in my dreams I remember every detail about Kimberly.....I wake up confused for a few minutes. But truthfully I miss her everyday of my life. Life goes on and on but love stays the same. I need to record her life because it's important to me that she's never forgotten.

More Fun

2008-09-17T12:58:00.001-04:00

My Pumpkin Patch

2008-09-17T11:55:00.002-04:00

I've got lots of pumpkins popping right now! Big Max, tiny white, cinderella, Jack o lantern, creamcicle, and more. They still have a few weeks to fully ripen and be ready for Halloween. I picked a green Cinderella yesterday with a broken stem. It is sitting alone on my front porch. As for my vegetables.....pulled most of them up and put into a compost pile. I still have a few squash and tomatoes and peppers. The big surprise was that I finally got an eggplant...One little bloom! I hope it has time to mature. It's beautiful.

KATE

2008-09-05T15:39:00.009-04:00

This is my niece Katelyn. She is going to have a new brother in January. I'm so excited that I will once again be an aunt. Jeff my youngest brother recovering from surgery is on the couch! One too many tricks at Lake Powell, and now he has many pins in his ankle.(ouch) When I have more time I am going to post photos of all my neices and nephews! I love the all so much.

BUGS and Buttercup...

2008-08-29T14:53:00.015-04:00

Anyone wondering why I have the bugs in my screen name? I didn't think so but I'll explain anyway. (I'll tell you about the Buttercup part another day.....) Since I was young I have be intrigued by BUGS! I even collected them for the county fair in 4-H years ago (many years). I caught, killed (gassed) and spread their wings. Stuck them with special pins (on the right side of their thorax) and put them in a display box. I don't like killing them any longer except spiders, but still love studying them. The're amazing, they are the most beautiful colors and patterns. They are ALWAYS busy, so many lessons to learn from them. I also call my Grandkids my little bugs; they are always busy, beautiful and fascinating. I also have learned many lessons from them.

Pumpkins on a Vine

2008-08-25T19:03:00.000-04:00

Garden Update...

2008-08-22T15:47:00.012-04:00

Here's a few of my garden photos with my grand kids. They love my garden almost as much as I do! We've had hours of fun and learning this summer. Now we're harvesting some of the vegetables and will soon be pulling up plants. The pumpkin patch is really taking off, thick vines running all over. We planted different varies of pumpkins, every day more are popping out. Max planted a "Big Max" and last count there were 10. Also poppin out are the "Jack O Lantern" and "Mini Whites" Every night there are more and more. I foolishly thought I would be able to keep a count on every thing I grew! That thought is long gone, it's impossible. Last night alone I picked aroune 40 tomatoes! I diced them in a salad and sliced them on hamburgers. There up for grabs, because I can't use them fast enough.

SAN FRANCISCO.......in August

2008-08-13T18:23:00.018-04:00

I spent the past 4 days in San Francisco at my sister Susan's house. Jane (another sis) went as well. Wendy (another sis) wasn't able to make it this time and she was greatly missed. We had a lovely time...wonderful food...great entertainment....and a fantastic time being together. The days were packed going places and doing fun things, eating incredible food and just relaxing together. Misha my BIL was there the first day, (he later flew to Hong Kong) I love the way that sounds! He's a FABULOUS chef.. He made a pasta that was better that the best Italian restaurant. We also had lots of Asian and Japanese food, so so good. I going to try and duplicate the corn fritters we had in Larkspur. When it comes to San Francisco I can never be there enough!! Thanks Susan for the wonderful time.

My Incredible Edible Garden

2008-08-05T14:00:00.013-04:00

I LOVE my garden!! Everyday it grows and amazes me in doing so. I'm up to ten big beautiful sunflowers. The first one that bloomed about a week ago is losing it's pedals (sad).....new ones are opening every day. I have some gourds or squash, they are getting enormous. I thought they would ripen closer to the fall so I could use them in my fall decorating. I probably have 50 pumpkins in various sizes and colors. Funny that I am already thinking about my garden next year! This has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done in my life. It's totally amazing what can grow from one little seed. Tomorrow I'll post some photos of my cucumbers that are now "pickled"!