I can't believe it's been 2 months since my last entry. I've written several times, in my mind, as I've gone on my walks, only to come home and forget that I needed to post. That's my techniphobe mind for you. I keep thinking I will finally remember how to post pictures. I even took a computer class. To no avail. I can't learn on someone else's computer in a classroom, then go home to my computer and not be able to do anything that I thought I understood. Kids, please help your deficient mom!
So I'll try to catch up a bit. (I'm sure I won't remember LOTS!!!)
One of the blogs I created in my mind was about all the boys in my life. I have been blessed with some terrific males over the course of 52 3/4 years. A good dad, the best husband, a son that makes me so proud, 2 awesome son-in-laws, and 3 fabulous grandson. In thinking on this topic, I was equating my relationship with these, to my relationship to Heavenly Father, and Older Brother, Jesus. I am truly blessed!!!
Then I have to acknowledge the girls. My daughters make me proud EVERY DAY!!! And Julia is so precious to me.
I was able to attend the awards assembly where Jonathan received an award for best effort. He is so much of an inspiration to me. And Julia got an award for academics. Not only is she adorable, but sooooo smart!! Wow, I thought my seams would burst with pride!!!!
A few weeks later, I met Mique and Julia for some girl time at the American Girl Cafe in Hollywood, where we dined and talked and even shopped a little. I LOVED it!!! I think they did, too. The only draw back was that I had to get back to a temple session, and couldn't stay as long as I'd have liked to. But so fun!!!! (check out Mique's blog.)
I've been able to spend a little time with Jessica and Owen recently. (Clint, too.) He's a cute little guy. We sure know how to get cute grandkids!!! (pics on their blogs.) Jess is busy training for the 1/2 marathon that she, Mique and several others will run on Memorial day. Jessica and Clint are good parents!
Tony finished his 2nd quarter at graduate school. So much time involved. I think he did well. I know he will be glad when this is all behind him, but he's getting invaluable education. It will all be worth it. Today he's my hero. He may seem laid back, but he fights hard for what he wants. I saw that in him 25 years ago when he was fighting for his life. He continues to show that spirit.
I learned much from conference this weekend. I look forward to reading the talks in the Ensign. I especially loved hearing the support of the brothern for our new prophet, Thomas S. Monson. It was interesting to see the mantle of the calling falling on him. Pres. Hinckley was so beloved. But it is apparent that Pres. Monson is also loved. We are so lucky to have a living prophet.
I'll catch up more soon. I promise.....
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Saturday, February 2, 2008
A beautiful sunset
Tonight, as I was driving west there was a gorgeous sunset! I so love a beautiful sunset! Today, as I watched the programs and funeral services of our beloved prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley, I have been overcome with emotion. Actually, since I got the call from Jessica on Sunday evening, soon after the announcement was made that he had passed on to the next life, I have been so emotional. I have been filled with gratitude, even in my sadness.
Pres. Hinckley taught me so many lessons. He shared with us all the "Be" talk. Simple words, but perfect beatitudes of our time. Be smart, be clean, be true, be humble, be prayerful, and be grateful. I am so grateful for him! Thank you, Mique for a perfect, beautiful reminder of these "BE's" as a Christmas present. I will try to "be" more!
He taught us to love one another. He showed by tremendous example that we are all, every one of us, a child of God, our Heavenly Father who loves us each individually. He taught that we in turn have to love each other, even when we disagree. He embraced the differences in us, and realized that we are all family. I know he loved me. I felt that love every time I heard him say it, or even read his words.
He taught the importance of family. The Proclamation on the Family is a beautiful document that I know is scripture, written by he and the first presidency, for the world to know the Lord's expectations of families. He loved his family, and often spoke on the importance of husbands and wives to love each other and treat each other with respect. His children were loved and nurtured by he and his wife, Marjorie. I just know they were amazing parents!
He taught me that hard work is the a necessary blessing in life. He worked until 2 days before his death, at the age of 97. And he loved his work. I hope I can do more because of his example.
Education was so important to him. The church schools grew under his guidance. He was a lifelong learner.
He understood the importance of temples, building so many all over the world so everyone could have the opportunity to share the blessings that the temple offer to all who attend it. I'm so glad to have the opportunity to attend our temple often.
During his presidency the church grew in huge numbers. Through the efforts of thousands of missionaries and members, the gospel has been shared all over the world. What an honor it was for me to have 2 children serve people in other countries during his presidency, sharing the message that the gospel of Jesus Christ is for every person. Pres. Hinckley loved every person on this earth, and wanted all that the Lord has to offer for each of us. He also understood that we, church members, need to be examples of Christ. He raised the bar for all who wanted to be missionaries, and in turn, for all who are members of Christ's church.
His generosity has touched many lives around the world. Under his guidance, the church has been involved with humanitarian opportunities all over the world. Whether the Perpetual Education Fund, the Welfare program for members, the disaster relief efforts, the aid to 3rd world countries in the way of food and water. The list goes on and on......
His sense of humor was so endearing, so real! I would have loved to know him as a friend. I bet he was fun to be around! As he spoke at conferences, or in interviews his keen sense of humor always crept in, when appropriate. I hope I can look at life with hope, humor, optimism, and enthusiasm as he did.
He bore unwavering witness that Jesus is our Christ, the Redeemer, the Savior of all mankind. I'm sure that He was there to greet our beloved prophet as he passed from this life.
I truly love this man. He has touched my heart in profound ways. Being so imperfect, I know I have much to work on. But because of his great example, I will try harder, love more, give more, complain less, and look forward to the time when I can meet him in Heaven and say "thank you"!
I hope he could see our beautiful sunset tonight. I can't help but think that Heavenly Father was giving me a tender mercy as I say tonight "'Til we meet again! I love you, Pres. Hinckley!"
Pres. Hinckley taught me so many lessons. He shared with us all the "Be" talk. Simple words, but perfect beatitudes of our time. Be smart, be clean, be true, be humble, be prayerful, and be grateful. I am so grateful for him! Thank you, Mique for a perfect, beautiful reminder of these "BE's" as a Christmas present. I will try to "be" more!
He taught us to love one another. He showed by tremendous example that we are all, every one of us, a child of God, our Heavenly Father who loves us each individually. He taught that we in turn have to love each other, even when we disagree. He embraced the differences in us, and realized that we are all family. I know he loved me. I felt that love every time I heard him say it, or even read his words.
He taught the importance of family. The Proclamation on the Family is a beautiful document that I know is scripture, written by he and the first presidency, for the world to know the Lord's expectations of families. He loved his family, and often spoke on the importance of husbands and wives to love each other and treat each other with respect. His children were loved and nurtured by he and his wife, Marjorie. I just know they were amazing parents!
He taught me that hard work is the a necessary blessing in life. He worked until 2 days before his death, at the age of 97. And he loved his work. I hope I can do more because of his example.
Education was so important to him. The church schools grew under his guidance. He was a lifelong learner.
He understood the importance of temples, building so many all over the world so everyone could have the opportunity to share the blessings that the temple offer to all who attend it. I'm so glad to have the opportunity to attend our temple often.
During his presidency the church grew in huge numbers. Through the efforts of thousands of missionaries and members, the gospel has been shared all over the world. What an honor it was for me to have 2 children serve people in other countries during his presidency, sharing the message that the gospel of Jesus Christ is for every person. Pres. Hinckley loved every person on this earth, and wanted all that the Lord has to offer for each of us. He also understood that we, church members, need to be examples of Christ. He raised the bar for all who wanted to be missionaries, and in turn, for all who are members of Christ's church.
His generosity has touched many lives around the world. Under his guidance, the church has been involved with humanitarian opportunities all over the world. Whether the Perpetual Education Fund, the Welfare program for members, the disaster relief efforts, the aid to 3rd world countries in the way of food and water. The list goes on and on......
His sense of humor was so endearing, so real! I would have loved to know him as a friend. I bet he was fun to be around! As he spoke at conferences, or in interviews his keen sense of humor always crept in, when appropriate. I hope I can look at life with hope, humor, optimism, and enthusiasm as he did.
He bore unwavering witness that Jesus is our Christ, the Redeemer, the Savior of all mankind. I'm sure that He was there to greet our beloved prophet as he passed from this life.
I truly love this man. He has touched my heart in profound ways. Being so imperfect, I know I have much to work on. But because of his great example, I will try harder, love more, give more, complain less, and look forward to the time when I can meet him in Heaven and say "thank you"!
I hope he could see our beautiful sunset tonight. I can't help but think that Heavenly Father was giving me a tender mercy as I say tonight "'Til we meet again! I love you, Pres. Hinckley!"
Saturday, January 26, 2008
What a way to start a new year......
I'm exhausted!!! The month of January is supposed to be quiet. Well, not here. With the advent of our 31st anniversary, a girl trip, an anniversary trip, and kids' b'days, January has proven to be..... BUSY!!!
Actually, I can't complain. It has all been fun. We went to the restaurant at the Four Seasons, "Vivace" for our anniversary dinner (thanks to Scott and Sharie Ferrell's Christmas present.) Beautiful, yummy, great company. Nothing to complain about. A very nice evening.
2 days later, it was off to San Antonio with the bp's to celebrate 2 special b'days. What a fun riverwalk! We had a great time. Karin brought a fun girl game, where there are written questions that you answer. I hadn't laughed so hard in a very long time! Karin should be a comedienne! We walked a lot and ate a lot and just generally had a good time. I'm lucky to have great friends!
We got home Sunday night; I did laundry, went to "cards", got ready for the next trip. I had hoped to go to Santa Clarita to celebrated Jonathan's 8th b'day, but I was soooo tired. I'm really glad that the Provosts were there to celebrate with him. I will make a very special effort to be there next year! Luckily I had sent his box of present before leaving for San Antonio. (I had also sent Krista Wischmann's gifts, as she turned 10 on Jan. 12.)
Thurs. morning, before the sun came up, we left for the airport for our trip to Maui. The flight was nice, even arriving a few minutes early, so we got to our hotel in Kihei a little after noon. We had a really nice trip. GREAT weather, fun excursions, snorkling and whale watching. I love sea life!!! We saw sooooo many turtles and fish varieties, and several whales. Lahaina is a fun town to window shop. Kihei has changed so much. I was disappointed in the fact that it's so busy. Not the sleepy, on stop sign town anymore. We actually went with a realtor to look for possible condos to buy. No luck. Everything in our price range needs lots of work, and isn't what we would want to spend any time staying in. So a vacation home is on the back burner for awhile. That's OK. The only real disappointment in our trip was the hotel. We stayed at the Marriott Wailea. It is newly acquired and in the middle of renovations. I won't go in to details. Just know that it could have been nicer for the cost!!! But our trip was a nice get away. Randy got some much-needed sleep. I just love being in a tropical setting. So we're looking forward to another trip there sometime soon. With the Fam.
Today I wrote letters to some dear local friends inviting them to join me in a fun charity group. I'll write more about that as the group develops. I hope others think it's as good an idea as I do.
And I have Julia's 6th b'day to look forward to on Wed. Jessica, O, and I are planning on going up there for the afternoon to help her celebrate. I hope it works out. I miss those kiddos!!!!
Then only one day will be left in January, and I can catch my breath. I hope to get organized with my goals- eating better, loosing the tummy, walking the miles that the girls are running to train for the 1/2 marathon (minus the long distances.) I have to get in control!!!!!!
Actually, I can't complain. It has all been fun. We went to the restaurant at the Four Seasons, "Vivace" for our anniversary dinner (thanks to Scott and Sharie Ferrell's Christmas present.) Beautiful, yummy, great company. Nothing to complain about. A very nice evening.
2 days later, it was off to San Antonio with the bp's to celebrate 2 special b'days. What a fun riverwalk! We had a great time. Karin brought a fun girl game, where there are written questions that you answer. I hadn't laughed so hard in a very long time! Karin should be a comedienne! We walked a lot and ate a lot and just generally had a good time. I'm lucky to have great friends!
We got home Sunday night; I did laundry, went to "cards", got ready for the next trip. I had hoped to go to Santa Clarita to celebrated Jonathan's 8th b'day, but I was soooo tired. I'm really glad that the Provosts were there to celebrate with him. I will make a very special effort to be there next year! Luckily I had sent his box of present before leaving for San Antonio. (I had also sent Krista Wischmann's gifts, as she turned 10 on Jan. 12.)
Thurs. morning, before the sun came up, we left for the airport for our trip to Maui. The flight was nice, even arriving a few minutes early, so we got to our hotel in Kihei a little after noon. We had a really nice trip. GREAT weather, fun excursions, snorkling and whale watching. I love sea life!!! We saw sooooo many turtles and fish varieties, and several whales. Lahaina is a fun town to window shop. Kihei has changed so much. I was disappointed in the fact that it's so busy. Not the sleepy, on stop sign town anymore. We actually went with a realtor to look for possible condos to buy. No luck. Everything in our price range needs lots of work, and isn't what we would want to spend any time staying in. So a vacation home is on the back burner for awhile. That's OK. The only real disappointment in our trip was the hotel. We stayed at the Marriott Wailea. It is newly acquired and in the middle of renovations. I won't go in to details. Just know that it could have been nicer for the cost!!! But our trip was a nice get away. Randy got some much-needed sleep. I just love being in a tropical setting. So we're looking forward to another trip there sometime soon. With the Fam.
Today I wrote letters to some dear local friends inviting them to join me in a fun charity group. I'll write more about that as the group develops. I hope others think it's as good an idea as I do.
And I have Julia's 6th b'day to look forward to on Wed. Jessica, O, and I are planning on going up there for the afternoon to help her celebrate. I hope it works out. I miss those kiddos!!!!
Then only one day will be left in January, and I can catch my breath. I hope to get organized with my goals- eating better, loosing the tummy, walking the miles that the girls are running to train for the 1/2 marathon (minus the long distances.) I have to get in control!!!!!!
Monday, December 31, 2007
A Year Well Spent
So..... as this year comes to a close, I need to express my gratitude for a good one.
It began with Randy and I celebrating our 3oth anniversary January 8. We celebrated by going on a Medditerrainean cruise in May/June. It was a wonderful trip with my best friend.
Big milestones for each of my kids.....
Tony graduated from BYU in April. He and Erika moved back to paradise, where he began working for Randy before starting graduate school at the New School of Architecture in S.D. in the fall. It's GREAT to have them close by!!!!
Jessica and Clint were blessed with a beautiful baby boy, Owen, on Sept. 25. He is a special addition to our family!!!! They also live close by, in Carmel Valley. We love seeing them often!!!
Mique turned 30 Nov. 3. (I can't believe I'm old enough to have a child that age!) She celebrated many ways, one being the surprise party that Josh and I planned with the help of other family. I think she liked her b'day.
We had a wonderful Christmas. It began in late Nov. as my bf's and I went to dinner for our annual gift exchange. Good food, great friends. I'm one lucky lady!!! The fun continued as I put on our ward Christmas breakfast. (My last activity as chairman of the committee. Yippee!!!) It was very stressful (just ask anyone around me including Randy Lang!!!) But with some help, a good time was had by all. My Randy was my right hand man, my biggest support, and even dressed as "Elf" to ensure a good party. That night was his annual office party at Donovan's. We left stuffed! I also spent time with my card playing/ temple going great friends, exchanging gifts and wonderful friendship! We went to brunch at the Nuckols the Saturday before Christmas and sang in their annual carrol sing along. That night we went to the Platts for a potluck and visited with more dear friends.
It was our turn to host the annual Alder family Christmas eve dinner. I made more trips to Costco in the 2 weeks leading up to the dinner than I had all year! Lisa and Greg and kids arrived Sunday night, and others started coming the next morning. With a T time of noon, we got the boys (and Cindy)off, and began preparations in earnest for dinner. We had a very nice Christmas eve, except that Scott and Teresa and boys were unable to join us as Teresa's dad was ill and needed their attention. We missed them and all the others who couldn't join us.
Here is a cute picture of 3 handsome cousins!!!
The next day Mique, Josh , and kids drove down. It took Julia bout 5 minutes to find the 2 new cars we had gotten to keep here to play with when they visit. They were a big hit!! A mini golf cart and a push peddle Benz. (When I saw the Benz in a catalogue I had to have it!!!) We opened presents and had a good time. The presents were all awesome this year. Very thoughtful. Many homemade. Mique found a set of Hall mixing bowls that match the other things I have collected. She made Randy a beautiful family tree that's on canvas. Tony and Erika gave me a beautiful shell votive holder, and Randy a movie he'd asked for. Jessica and fam had come over Friday night before they left to spend christmas with the Ericksons and we exchanged gifts then. They gave me some adorable blocks with the pictures of the grandkids, and Randy a different family tree. It was a special Christmas.
Kids having fun driving.......................................
It began with Randy and I celebrating our 3oth anniversary January 8. We celebrated by going on a Medditerrainean cruise in May/June. It was a wonderful trip with my best friend.
Big milestones for each of my kids.....
Tony graduated from BYU in April. He and Erika moved back to paradise, where he began working for Randy before starting graduate school at the New School of Architecture in S.D. in the fall. It's GREAT to have them close by!!!!
Jessica and Clint were blessed with a beautiful baby boy, Owen, on Sept. 25. He is a special addition to our family!!!! They also live close by, in Carmel Valley. We love seeing them often!!!
Mique turned 30 Nov. 3. (I can't believe I'm old enough to have a child that age!) She celebrated many ways, one being the surprise party that Josh and I planned with the help of other family. I think she liked her b'day.
We had a wonderful Christmas. It began in late Nov. as my bf's and I went to dinner for our annual gift exchange. Good food, great friends. I'm one lucky lady!!! The fun continued as I put on our ward Christmas breakfast. (My last activity as chairman of the committee. Yippee!!!) It was very stressful (just ask anyone around me including Randy Lang!!!) But with some help, a good time was had by all. My Randy was my right hand man, my biggest support, and even dressed as "Elf" to ensure a good party. That night was his annual office party at Donovan's. We left stuffed! I also spent time with my card playing/ temple going great friends, exchanging gifts and wonderful friendship! We went to brunch at the Nuckols the Saturday before Christmas and sang in their annual carrol sing along. That night we went to the Platts for a potluck and visited with more dear friends.
It was our turn to host the annual Alder family Christmas eve dinner. I made more trips to Costco in the 2 weeks leading up to the dinner than I had all year! Lisa and Greg and kids arrived Sunday night, and others started coming the next morning. With a T time of noon, we got the boys (and Cindy)off, and began preparations in earnest for dinner. We had a very nice Christmas eve, except that Scott and Teresa and boys were unable to join us as Teresa's dad was ill and needed their attention. We missed them and all the others who couldn't join us.
Here is a cute picture of 3 handsome cousins!!!
The next day Mique, Josh , and kids drove down. It took Julia bout 5 minutes to find the 2 new cars we had gotten to keep here to play with when they visit. They were a big hit!! A mini golf cart and a push peddle Benz. (When I saw the Benz in a catalogue I had to have it!!!) We opened presents and had a good time. The presents were all awesome this year. Very thoughtful. Many homemade. Mique found a set of Hall mixing bowls that match the other things I have collected. She made Randy a beautiful family tree that's on canvas. Tony and Erika gave me a beautiful shell votive holder, and Randy a movie he'd asked for. Jessica and fam had come over Friday night before they left to spend christmas with the Ericksons and we exchanged gifts then. They gave me some adorable blocks with the pictures of the grandkids, and Randy a different family tree. It was a special Christmas.
Kids having fun driving.......................................Randy and I have been able to spend some time together. He works so hard that it's a treat to be home relaxing. We had planned to join Janet as she retired, but got to the airport and our flight was delayed because the flight crew didn't show up. (I have never heard of such a thing!!!) So we just went home to another quiet day.
Tonight we plan on spending time with former neighbors that we don't see often enough. We are so blessed to have a great family and have the best friends. We appreciate each person so much! I am so grateful to a Heavenly Father who has showered gifts on my and those I love. I'm grateful to an Older Brother who's birth we just celebrated. His gift of the gospel and especially the atonement can never be repaid. I hope this year I can be more like Him.
May the coming year be as good as the last!!!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
If she's 30, that makes me.......
The past 2 weeks were milestone weeks for me. They started with Mique's surprise b'day party. My # 1 likes to do whatever she does in a big way, with lots of gusto. So we knew- Randy, Josh, my other kids, and I- that we had to plan a big event for her big day- turning 30. We started planning a couple of months ago. Somewhere along the way Mique decided to start planning her own "big 30" party. Not wanting to be outdone, and having started planning a surprise party we enlisted the help of her college friend, Taryn, to make plans to visit Mique before her upcoming move to China. There were a couple of close calls (fires and evacuations), and the logistics were a little complicated. But we managed to pull it off on Oct. 27, just 6 days after the fires broke out. (Talk about an exciting, busy week!!!) I kinda blew the surprise by forgetting the album of letters that I'd asked all invited to write. I had to call Taryn and ask her to bring the album, and Mique answered the phone. A story I won't get in to. But when Mique and Taryn finally arrived at the party that night, I think Mique was genuinely touched by all who'd made the effort to attend.... Uncle Aaron flying in from Utah, Aunt Lisa and family driving from Arizona, Joel who's 25th b'day it was, Taryn, BF Chrissy from SD, Aunt Cindy, Uncle Scott, Aunt Teresa, cousins Matt, & Cheryl from Glendora, Gabe and Rosie, + many friends from Santa Clarita and the Provost family. I don't know how many people came, but about 50 I think. Good food, good fun, great people! I think she felt the love. I hope she did!!!!
The next day was the primary program for Mique's ward. Julia and Jonathan were participating. Chrissy and I spent the night in Santa Clarita then went to church in the morning. J was a little hyper, probably from the crazy party the night before. But Julia, was in the front row, singing all the songs and looking adorable. But then the time came for them to say their parts. Of course it took me only a nanosecond to burst in to tears as soon as J went to the microphone. He did a great job!!!! And Julia did her part without a hitch. There was never a more proud Grammy!!!!! (I just wish I could keep a tighter reigns on the tear flow!!!) Great job, kids!!!
Monday was recovery day for me. After a crazy week of fires, house guests, & the party I was really tired!!! By Thursday, I felt better and spent the day with Jessica- her 28th b'day. We went shopping with the baby, and just had a nice day getting out. I love my Lupdy and am proud to be her mom!!!
Friday was our ward talent show- "Fall Follies." Being in charge, I was back in party mode. With help from Daryl, Kris Whitehead, and Afton Sleight, we had a fun night. We spent the morning decorating, and the evening mostly laughing at cute acts between making popcorn, and keeping all the participants organized. It all came together, although I wondered earlier in the week if it would. I think this will ba an annual event from now on, since this was our 2nd in 2 years. As usual, after it was all over I cheered that it was over. Now on to the ward Christmas party in Dec. 8. I think that when that's over I will be partied out for awhile!!!!!
The next day was the primary program for Mique's ward. Julia and Jonathan were participating. Chrissy and I spent the night in Santa Clarita then went to church in the morning. J was a little hyper, probably from the crazy party the night before. But Julia, was in the front row, singing all the songs and looking adorable. But then the time came for them to say their parts. Of course it took me only a nanosecond to burst in to tears as soon as J went to the microphone. He did a great job!!!! And Julia did her part without a hitch. There was never a more proud Grammy!!!!! (I just wish I could keep a tighter reigns on the tear flow!!!) Great job, kids!!!
Monday was recovery day for me. After a crazy week of fires, house guests, & the party I was really tired!!! By Thursday, I felt better and spent the day with Jessica- her 28th b'day. We went shopping with the baby, and just had a nice day getting out. I love my Lupdy and am proud to be her mom!!!
Friday was our ward talent show- "Fall Follies." Being in charge, I was back in party mode. With help from Daryl, Kris Whitehead, and Afton Sleight, we had a fun night. We spent the morning decorating, and the evening mostly laughing at cute acts between making popcorn, and keeping all the participants organized. It all came together, although I wondered earlier in the week if it would. I think this will ba an annual event from now on, since this was our 2nd in 2 years. As usual, after it was all over I cheered that it was over. Now on to the ward Christmas party in Dec. 8. I think that when that's over I will be partied out for awhile!!!!!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Gratitude.....
It's ..... Wed. night, after a long couple of days. (Yes, I did just stop to think about what day it really is.)
Sunday was a beautiful, clear day. It started with an early morning correlation meeting, ended at dinner with good friends followed by Extreme Home Makeover. A really nice Sunday.
On the way to dinner we noticed a big cloud of smoke to the east. Santa Anas had been predicted, so a fire was not a huge surprise. But it was far away. So we went to bed not really giving it a 2nd thought. Monday morning I was doing my usual routine... hot chocolate in the microwave, out front to get the paper when I notice that the huge cloud of smoke was all across the southern sky. And not just a cloud! It was a BIG, BLACK cloud!!!! A little while later the phone rang and it was Tony. They had to evacuate. Of course I said "come over here." A few minutes later the phone rang again and Jessica said they were to evacuate also. So the invitation was given to them, too. About an hour later Mique call to say that they were being evacuated. San Diego is too far for them, but they were on their way to Punks house. Mique had told me the day before that fires in Santa Clarita were pretty bad.) 3 kids 3 evacuations. A little while later we got a call from our ward compassionate service leader asking if we could house some evacuated elders. "Welcome to the Hotel Mendioroz!!!" So we had 1 Grammy, 1
new mom, 1 son, 1 daughter in law, 1 son-in-law, 2 dogs, 4 elders, 1 friend of the elders (and
daughter-in-laws evacuated parents and dogs for a little while.) Pretty crazy! Randy worked until 5 or so.
Tony and Erika were the first to be able to go home on Tuesday. Jessica and gang were here 'til this morning, and the elders are still here (sans friend). They will leave in the morning. Lots of cooking and tv news watching.
Through it all I feel so blessed. The kids keep telling me that I've been very patient. especially with the elders and friend. I am actually so glad that we have a home big enough to provide shelter when needed, and even just for fun. Monday night Jessica was kind of urging us to evacuate. an option but not manditory. I kept saying " and go where? The Beach?" I would have packed up if I thought we were in the slightest danger. I just felt so at peace. I feel so fortunate to have been spared the disaster that so many endured. Soooooo many lost their homes. More than any other fire in San Diego history. It's always wonderful, too, to see the goodness in people come out at a time like this. The donations of time, goods, and shelter has been enormous. The state and national disaster people have been very impressed by the outpouring from San Diegans.
I love living here, even if there is an occassional disaster. I love the weather, the beach, the people, my home.
But today I am most grateful that those I care about most are all well and safe. Reality check....you bet! and I think we all passed a kind of test. In the toughest circumstances, we can find the blessings, the tender mercies.
I love you all, both near and far. I am grateful!
Sunday was a beautiful, clear day. It started with an early morning correlation meeting, ended at dinner with good friends followed by Extreme Home Makeover. A really nice Sunday.
On the way to dinner we noticed a big cloud of smoke to the east. Santa Anas had been predicted, so a fire was not a huge surprise. But it was far away. So we went to bed not really giving it a 2nd thought. Monday morning I was doing my usual routine... hot chocolate in the microwave, out front to get the paper when I notice that the huge cloud of smoke was all across the southern sky. And not just a cloud! It was a BIG, BLACK cloud!!!! A little while later the phone rang and it was Tony. They had to evacuate. Of course I said "come over here." A few minutes later the phone rang again and Jessica said they were to evacuate also. So the invitation was given to them, too. About an hour later Mique call to say that they were being evacuated. San Diego is too far for them, but they were on their way to Punks house. Mique had told me the day before that fires in Santa Clarita were pretty bad.) 3 kids 3 evacuations. A little while later we got a call from our ward compassionate service leader asking if we could house some evacuated elders. "Welcome to the Hotel Mendioroz!!!" So we had 1 Grammy, 1
new mom, 1 son, 1 daughter in law, 1 son-in-law, 2 dogs, 4 elders, 1 friend of the elders (and
daughter-in-laws evacuated parents and dogs for a little while.) Pretty crazy! Randy worked until 5 or so.
Tony and Erika were the first to be able to go home on Tuesday. Jessica and gang were here 'til this morning, and the elders are still here (sans friend). They will leave in the morning. Lots of cooking and tv news watching.
Through it all I feel so blessed. The kids keep telling me that I've been very patient. especially with the elders and friend. I am actually so glad that we have a home big enough to provide shelter when needed, and even just for fun. Monday night Jessica was kind of urging us to evacuate. an option but not manditory. I kept saying " and go where? The Beach?" I would have packed up if I thought we were in the slightest danger. I just felt so at peace. I feel so fortunate to have been spared the disaster that so many endured. Soooooo many lost their homes. More than any other fire in San Diego history. It's always wonderful, too, to see the goodness in people come out at a time like this. The donations of time, goods, and shelter has been enormous. The state and national disaster people have been very impressed by the outpouring from San Diegans.
I love living here, even if there is an occassional disaster. I love the weather, the beach, the people, my home.
But today I am most grateful that those I care about most are all well and safe. Reality check....you bet! and I think we all passed a kind of test. In the toughest circumstances, we can find the blessings, the tender mercies.
I love you all, both near and far. I am grateful!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Grammy's ode to O.D.
So the big day fiinally arrived!!! Owen David was born on Sept. 25, 2007 weighing 7 lbs 14 ozs. (almost the same as his mommy!)
Miq and Julia were there for the long haul. They drove down as soon as they heard that Jessica was being induced. We went to the hospital Monday night, left when contractions were pretty uncomfortable for Jess, around 10:00 pm. Got to the hospital the next morning about 9:00. It wwas decided around 5:00 pm that after pushing for an hour, the baby was making no progress and mom-to-be was exhausted, that a c section was needed, (much to my dismay.) And after waiting in a room for 1 1/2 hours, I finally went to the nurses station and asked if my daughter and her baby were OK, since I knew it should only take about 1/2 hr. The nurse was embarrassed that she hadn't let us know any details, and took us right back. Yes, all was well!!
Julia and Mique said hello to Owen, then got in the car to drive back home that night. Tony and Erika arrived just as Miq and Jules were leaving. One big happy family!
Jessica is recovering well, and Owen is growing like a champ. At his dr.'s visit yesterday he weighed 8 lbs 6 ozs. That's about a 1 lb gain since losing after the birth. We spent the day toegether, Grammy and her daughters and grandkids. We ate Rico's, played in the yard, spent a perfect 2 hours at the beach. I asked Julia what her favorite part of the beach is. She thought about it for a few minutes, then replied, "I don't have a favorite part. I love it all." That's my granddaughter!!!!!
Yes, we're so happy O.D. is here. We look forward to many fun times together!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)