Gwen's Blog

Fantacy vs Reality

2011-10-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

She looked beautiful that night. Her auburn hair fell gently around her oval face. Her tan complexion accented her dark eyes and the simple black dress completed the nearly-perfect picture. A drop pearl necklace and earings added the final touch. She knew she looked "tempting and delicious"--she had planned it that way, and picked the dress to accent her slim but firm body. She felt content with herself as she surveyed the room she had designed to reflect her feminine, mysterious personality. She especially loved the plush deep blue carpet, the soft blue furniture and the accents of beige. For mystery, she had added Chinese vases and modern art pictures and a transparent glass table with tiny Chinese music boxes.

She responded to the doorbell, dimming the lights and turning on soft music as she went past the switches. She opened the door and there he was--tall, handsome, sexual. She loved his smell and his masculine appeal--everything about him was perfect. He gathered her into his arms and they made love with their eyes, only briefly, before he kissed her passionately and deeply. This evening would be perfect--two peple in love, alone in the world for a brief passing of time. . .

Love is portrayed in so many ways, and through our fantacies, we become beautiful and sensual, if only for a few moments.

But, love is more that "perfect people and perfect romance", as movies, TV and literature suggest.

Love is . . .getting up very early in the morning almost every day to keep a family going financially, working hard and being awfully tired. And what keeps you going? A simple concern, "How was your day?" or a child ready for a hug, or even a kiss on the cheek   Someone to share the little things with---

Love is . . . brief encounters at odd hours in odd places to avoid clinging children and prowling teenagers and enduring all of the times in between---

Love is . . . walking through a house so cluttered you want to cry, day after day, and then coming home one day and finding the kitchen clean when yhou know you didn't do it ---

Love is. . . sacrificing, always sacrificing, so others can have what they want or need and hardly ever thinking of yourself---

Love is . . .overlooking imperfections and forgiving mistakes because you know a person can only do so much---

Love is . . . getting up at 6 on Saturday to do your sick son's paper route, and realizing your partner is going to help you---

Love is . . .patience, understanding, encouragement, respect, hope, when raising your kids---

Love is . . .getting away once in awhile, alone, to keep fires burning and making it special---

Love is.. . .T-ball, Little League, Babe Ruth, Junior Varisity, Varsity, Piano recitals, Dance recitals,        Judo, Soccar, Primary programs, Christmas programs--You know what I mean!---

Love is . . looking past body and face into character and spirit---

Love is . . .working together for eternal goals
                  sharing ideas and problems
                   doing the dishes
                    hot chocolate and popcorn
                    understanding and encouraging
                     sickness and health
                      poverty and riches
                       for better or for worse
                       warming toes on a cold night---

Love is ......BETTER THAN FANTASY! ENJOY THE JOURNEY!!

Wildlife camera

2011-05-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

Brian and Krissy came up for the weekend. On Saturday they took Ron up to Starkey on the 4 wheelers and retrieved the wildlife cameras that are set up there. When they got back, there were 1953 good pictures of elk! We were excited to have such good images of the elk but I must admit after about 750 elk pictures, we were hoping for a wolf, bear, cougar, moose, mountain goat, or anything other than an elk! But, at least we got some good evidence of the elk that live up there!

pUrPleRonASaurus

2010-12-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

Four year old Kresimir has always wanted a purple dinosaur. Last year for his birthday we asked him what he wanted and he said, "A purple dinosaur." For Christmas, we asked, "What do you want for Christmas," and he answered, "A purple dinosaur." This year for his birthday and Christmas, we asked the same question and got the same answer. I'm thinking, "It's time to find this boy a purple dinosaur!" So, in my attempt to be Grandmother of the Year, I went in search of a purple dinosaur! Well, as you might guess, purple dinosaurs don't exist. So, I decided to "discover" a lost breed of dinosaur--the Purpleronasaurs. I went to the craft store and bought a dinosaur. Then I consulted with the hobby guy, "How do you paint a dinosaur purple?" (I know, it's a dumb question, but I'm not a crafty person!!!) So, he directed me to the paint, gave a few instructions like, "He shouldn't put the dinosaur in the bathtub with him or in a kiddy pool," (remember that, KY).

Well, here he is--Purpleronasaurus. Isn't he cute? Do you think Kres will like his purple dinosaur? What grandma's won't do for their grandkids!

I love visitors

2010-09-12T10:46:00.001-07:00

Since I have been down and out, I have enjoyed a variety of visitors. Trey stopped by to show off his new, dressy outfit. He's really a handsome young man! Great outfit, Trey.

Ky has stopped by with the kids on several occasions, Dad read stories to Kres, and Kres and Ella loved playing in the big tree out in front of the condo

I Cried!

2010-09-10T14:39:00.000-07:00

I felt like crying.

I looked at the clock--3 a.m.--I couldn't sleep and was sitting in the big chair in the living room.

My legs hurt soooo bad, both of them. If asked to describe the pain, I would say, "It feels like giant snakes are going up and down my leg spewing their venom as they go."

But, no one was there to tell that to. Just me. In pain.

Yesterday my back was swollen like a soft ball. I iced it. It didn't help.

It worried me. I called the Dr's office. "Come in tomorrow," she said. "9:45"

Now, only 6 3/4 hours until 9:45!

I prayed the pain would go away--that I could sleep. And

I cried.

Cribbage "15-2, . . . .15-1?"

2010-09-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

The other day I was bored, so Isent Ron to the store to buy a Cribbage game. We often sit around on Sunday evening and play, and I win a little les than half the time. But I love to play.

Anyone who knows the game, knows that you count cards that add up to 15 or 31, as the case might be.
You deal 6 cards to each player, and each player puts 2 in the "kitty". It's a pretty simple game.

But, wait, add a pain pill to a muscle relaxer and then try to count to 15!!

Here's an example of how our game went. Ron layed down a 10 and said, "ten", I then laid down a five and said , "Fifteen for 2" I then proeeded to move Ron's peg two points instead of my own. "Wait," he said, "what are you doing?" I'm moving my peg two points "but that's my peg--Im blue, you are red. You moved my peg."

"oh," I said and then moved my red peg 2 in front of his blue peg." "now what are you doing."

"I don't know??"{ I said. "I moved my red peg like you said." "just don't touch the pegs," he said, as he moved them correctly. "Now I play the next card." He layed down a 2 and said, "17" I laid down a 7 and said, "7". He huffed a little and said, "now let's start all over. We had 15, and i laid down a 2 for 17. Then you laid down a 7. What's 17 + 7?". I looked confused, an used myh fingers to count 17 + 7.
"24" I proudly announced.

Ron laid down a 7 and said "31 for a go and a pair worth 2 for a total of 4."
By then I was totally befuddled and ready to cry. ":What happened to 35?"
He was in shock--but patienely told me 35 has nothing to do with the game. So,I started to gather the cards and shurrle them "WHat are you doing," he asked befuddled. I'm suffling the cards. "

"WAit, put those cards down, we \ need to do our count."
"I thougt our ount was 35!" I said,
"isn't it your nap time?" Roln asked
"Well, maybe," I said, "but you promised me a game of Cribbage". . . .

Whoever claims drugs don't affect cognitive skills has never played Cribbage after taking a powerful pain pill and a muscle relaxer! Poor 'Ron--He' s a trooper.

On a lighter note . .

2010-08-31T15:47:00.000-07:00

Kim did such a great job of blogging our summr activities, but she wasn't around for everythng. So today I'm doing another "Random Blog" from summer, and trying to keep my mind on something besides pain.

One day the kids found a nest of baby quail in an old tire on our place. There were about 18 of them and no mom in sight!

Rob, Jodi and Trey stopped by one Sunday afternoon and offered a ride to Wallowa Lake. It was a rainy day, but always a beautiful drive. Here are Rob andJodi by the lake.

Everyday the kids checked the birds. They started with about 18 and they all died but 4. Ron realized they couldn't get out of the tire to hunt for food, so he fixed it so they could get out. After that, they wereen't seen again!

Randy was the coach of the East Shrine team. They lost, but played a good game. It's always fun to watch him coach. That's him in the red had. My blog is confused, I don't know why. But, I try. It keeps me entertained!

On my way back from Hell!

2010-08-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

On October 9,2009, I underwent back surgery to free a pinched siatic nerve. So, to my surprise, when I went to the Dr for my 9 month check up, he informed me I had a broken back! After considering the option of a lifetime in a wheelchair on pain pills, or surgery to fuse a couple of vertebrea, I opted for a trip to Hell--surgery! It involved removing a disc, scraping bone from my right pelvis, putting the scrappings into a corkskrew, inserting it where the disc had been, and holding it in place with a metal plate and 2 screws.

The surgery took from 9-12, and when I woke up, I was, literally, in HELL! I know that isn't a polite word, but it seems to fit nicely for my situation. Every time I moved, I was in extreme pain and dizzy. Every time I ate, I threw up. I often fell asleep while eating. THey informed me I had to walk to the end of the hall, which was at least 50 miles long, I swear!. I told them I was dizzy, and they said, "WALK!" So, I took off, being supported by a walker and a Geek belt (fastened around the chest to hold me up if I fell. "I'm dizzy," I said. And they said "Keep going, your're doing fine."

"But I'm, dizzy. OK, now I'm fainting,"

and down I went. I found myself sitting in a wheelchair, and as soon as I woke up a little, they said, "We really need you to walk." They settled for a few steps. I talked them into letting me sit in a chair for awhile before having to walk, and putting me on less powerful pain medication. That all helped. So, on Thursday afternoon, after making sure the vital parts of the body were moving, they sent me home. I am now at the condo, and Ron is a great care giver. Krissy relieves him in the evening, and sometimes he leaves while I am sleeping to run to the store. Again, my blog is as confused as I am, but I'll keep trying. My journey from hell is getting a little easier! I'll try to keep you posted!

Darn!

2010-08-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

Darn--I tried to do a really neat post on my favorite pictures from summer; but blogger is being stubborn today. So, here are random shots of some of our doings. These are just random--ones I could get to load. But, Oh Well--I tried!

Random pictures from summer. Don't they look like they could be sisters? Krissy and Kim at a baby shower.

Can you see the big hail balls on Ella's neck and Taz's ear? Of course, they had to play outside in a hail storm!

Kresimir turned 4 with a Scooby Doo Cake and lots of friends

Grandpa painted the picnic table in the mountains while Taz and Cynjyn caught crawdads!

Kresimir and Beckham enjoyed eating at the Rain Forest Restaurant in Las Vegas!

Ella, Mary, Cynjyn and Kres loved posing at the family reunion!Kim was pretty in purple for our trip to the Rain Forest Cafe

Here's those crawdads Taz and Cynj caught. Taz was crawdad king at the family reunion and cooked and served about 2 dozen to attendees!Beckham enjoyed the little cars at Kres' birthday party. Cutie!

This is a wild blog! Blogger never cooperates with me; but, hopefully, you can figure this one out!

Fun is Work and Work is fun (Sometimes!)

2010-06-18T15:08:00.000-07:00

I went to Boise last week for Kres' 3-year old awards ceremony. It was fun! And Kres won the award for "Best Worker"! Keep up the good work, Kres! They all wore butterfly wings because the theme was "evolving"

The next day, Krissy and I took Kres and Beckham to the zoo, even though it was raining. We had a great time!

Kres wanted to take some pictures, so I totally gave him the camera, didn't even supervise him, and here are a few of the pictures he took: He took the one of Krissy above, and these: Can you see the zebra peeking out of the shed?

And this one of Beckham and Krissy, and many more. I think he did a good job--may be a good photogrtapher in the making!

We had a great day at the zoo! Then we took the kids to Burger King and let them play there for awhile after lunch. We got them home around 3:30, so Ky had the whole day to herself!!

Then came time for me to work!

I gave my second "Cooking with Gwen" class on Tuesday, focusing on saving money in the selection and preparation of meat.

I made Pot Roast, Beef Stroganoff, Swiss Steak with Cheesy Noodles, BBQ Pork and Braised Cubed Steak. For a special treat, I made an "ultimate cheesecake".

Here are a few of the ladies enjoying their meal! I thought we would have leftovers for days, but there was very little left! Eighteen people came and everyone had a good time, learned a lot and went home full!

Life can be fun hard work or work that is fun--either way, life is good!

25 Things You Might Not Know About Me

2010-06-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

I challenge you to try this--it isn't easy to come up with 25 things about you, period, let alone 25 things others might not know--here goes:

1. When my mother took me to school on the first day and left, I hid in the closet and wouldn't come out. They had to send for my dad to come and get me and take me home.
2. I have absolutely no artistic ability when it comes to crafts, drawing, painting, etc!!
3. I hate to sew
4. I started piano and clarinet lessons in the 3rd grade, and continued through my 2nd year of college!
5. I am a slow reader.
6. When I was a young child, we moved to La Grande. Everyone thought my sister and I were twins because mom cut our hair the same and dressed us the same. She made all of our clothes alike but in different colors. I was usually green, and Jackie was blue. We did look alike and were about the same size, although she was 20 months older than I and 2 grades ahead of me in school
7. I am a fainter. I used to faint when I got a shot, cut myself badly or got too tired. I'm better now, but can't guarantee I won't faint!
8. For years, I had a collection of personally autographed movie star's pictures. I entered my collection in hobby fairs and won blue ribbons. I had everyone: Rock Hudson, Marilyn Monroe, Jimmy Dean, Doris Day, --all of the old greats. I left my collection in my mom's basement when I went to college; the basement flooded (we lived at the foot of the mountain, far from a river of anykind), and my collection was destroyed.
9. I used to save $2 bills. I had about 200 bills saved when I got married. Ron and I used them to get a little used car. I still love $2 bills!
10. When I was 6, my sister got the measles. So, my mom took my baby sister and I to get a measles shot. The problem was, I already had them, but they hadn't "come out", so I was twice as sick. I had to spend 2 weeks in a dark room, with the door shut because I was contagious. Only my dad and mom came in to see me and care for me during those 2 weeks.
11. When I was in high school, President Dwight D Eisenhower shook my hand and handed me a signed ticket worth one free milkshake. I was in the high school band, and we were at the Spokane Lilic Festival. I loved milkshakes, so I spent it! What a foolish thing to do--have regreted it my whole life.
12. When I was in HS, I was cooking for 200 firefighters in our restaurant when I spilled hot grease on my whole left hand. It created a big blister, and was very painful. But, I was the only cook there, so I had to finish my job! What an ordeal that was.
13. I was co-editor of the HS yearbook, class of 1958, with my now husband, Ron.
14. I once helped my dad unbury glass jars containing money from the basement of our house. We dug up $25,000, which he used to buy a downtown building. He didn't trust banks because he had been affected by poverty during the Great Depression!
15. I was one of only 3 girls in the University of Oregon Concert Band in 1960.
16. I won a music scholarship to U of O, but turned it down to major in accounting.
17. I shook John F Kennedy and Jackie Kennedys' hands when they gave a campaign stop and speech at Eastern Oregon State College.
18. I was invited to tour Europe with a symphony orchestra, but declined because The Berlin Wall was scheduled to come down. I didn't want to be in Europe if there was going to be another war!
19. I almost didn't graduated from college because Biology was a required course, and I wasn't going to cut up any dead animals!! Ron rescued me and became my lab partner. He did the cutting,
20. I am a family history buff, and started my original research as a newly-wed working on my Golden Gleaner Award.
21. I spent 20 hours this week reading microfilms in search of my 17th Century ancestors in England
22. I have had 14 surgeries, which includes 5 C-secions.
23. I won a State Recognition Presidential Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Mathematics. My reward was a T-shirt and $700, which I used to buy my first computer.
24. I used to play in the orchestra for the musicals presented at BMCC. I loved doing it--played for such plays as South Pacific, Fiddler on the Roof, Brigadoon, Grease, and the presentations of The Messiah, and many more.
25. I sat and ate dinner within 20 feet of President Spencer W Kimball when I attended a Genealogy Conference at BYU.

Now you post 25 things I don't know about you!!

Cooking Class

2010-05-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Someone at church talked me into giving some cooking lessons. So, I sent out a "feeler" to see if there was any interest and listed some categories. I had 14 people express an interest in Quick and Easy Meals and Easy Ways to Save Time and Money in preparing those meals. So, Tuesday night I had the first class, and 17 people came! I was excited to see so many there. I made a 16 page booklet for everyone, and it contained ideas, easy one-dish meals, and easy desserts. I also included a page on What Can I Do With White Sauce?

I began by talking about having the right tools to make cooking easier. I focused on knives and a good sharpener. As you can see, I talked about good kettles, storage containers, cooking salt and pepper shakers, Johnny Salt and a good cutting board.

I asked for someone to help me, and we each made a white sauce. She turned hers into egg sauce, and I turned mine into Chicken Mushroom Soup. That was fun and "amazing".

I had made some of the desserts to sample, and after talking about them, we all ate them. Everyone liked that! Above, you can see Banana Split Cake, Tuti Fruiti Pudding or Pie, Chinese Noodle Treats and 60 year old cake! They were all a hit, and the recipes were in their booklet.

Here we see Creamy Tacos, Frito Pie, Add Anything Dish and Spam Loaf. We made the egg sauce for the Spam Loaf. Everyone liked all of the dishes, and everyone was surprised at the Spam loaf being so good!

Of course, I fixed a pot of My Favorite Vegetable Soup in the Crock Pot! It was a big hit.

Sorry, I didn't get a picture of everyone eating, but I was kind of busy answering questions, etc. There was very little food left. All in all, it was a fun evening and I had fun preparing! They asked me to do more classes, and I agreed to do one in June, but probably wait until fall to do others. And, they LOVED the recipe book!

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

2010-05-21T20:44:00.000-07:00

Saturday--Beautiful Weather, Not too hot or too cold--Wonderful, Modern Ball Park

This great day found us in Baker City watching Trampis blay baseball. Ontario JV against Baker City JV. He had several really good hits.

And off he goes. . .

He played catcher the entire first game.

All in all, it was a great way to spend the afternoon! Good job, Trampis!

By the way, they won the first game and lost the second. Trampis played 3rd base for 5 innings and catcher for 2 innings the second game.

Simple Pleasures

2010-05-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to blog some miscellaneous tidbits, since I don't lead a real exciting life. Well, some days are exciting, but everyone already blogged about branding, so that's out. So, I'll just entertain you with some fun things from the last few days. The picture above is Ella. She came to visit and claimed I had no pictures of her on my camera. So, she took a picture of herself! Well, she's wrong, too, because I have several hundred pictures of sweet Ella. But it's always fun to have another one!
The picture above Ella is supposed to be next (can't figure out what's going on this time with the blog. . ) Anyway, we were all in the kitchen eating after branding, when someone looked out the window and saw a coyote! He played around quite a long time, so we all got a good look at him--that was a fun addition to the day! The picture above the coyote is my empty living room and dining room. In August, 2009, I bought a carpet shampooer. Before it arrived, I had an inflamed syatic nerve, followed by back surgery--you all know the story--Well, Monday I decided I felt good enough to put it to use. My carpets were driving me crazy and needed shampooed. So, I decided to just do the two rooms, so I wouldn't overdo it. The machine was easy to use, and the floors look great! I am very encouraged and excited about doing the rest of the carpets. However, I have to wait a day or so in order for the two I did to COMPLETELY dry!!

What happened? The picture loaded right! Anyway, Kres gave me this funky candle holder for Mother's Day. So, I turned it into a vase, and I think it looks really nice. I needed something for the new TV stand. So, here's the look. I love the stand and the look. Fun, but simple!

Here's the whole view.

That's enough excitement for one day!

I love everyone's blogs, so keep up the good work, and I'll try harder to do better next time!

Sweet Marianne

2010-04-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

Our ward had a talent show, and since the talented people didn't sign up (except for a few), 90% of the acts were done by "non performers". Ron was one of the "non performers" in a group called "Those 50's guys!" (Doyle Slayter, Tom Trotter, Ron Waite and Mark Pilling)

They lip sang to "Marianne" by the Hilltoppers. Each one proposed to Marianne (sitting in the chair). Here Doyle Slayter sings to her while Tom Trotter and Ron Waite look on!

This is Tom singing to her, and he actually ended by giving her a kiss on the cheek!

I thought Ron did the best job of looking like a guy from the 50's!

His part was:

"When we marry, we will have a time you never saw

I will be so happy, I'll kiss my Mother-in Law--HOOEY

Children by the dozens in and out the bamboo hut,

One for every palm tree and cok-y-nut!"

ANYWAY, it was kind of fun, and I was proud of him for agreeing to do it!

Lots of Work--Lots of fun!

2010-03-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

March has been a busy month. I went to Boise March 6 to stay with Ky while Clay was in Florida on a military assignment. It was a lot of work, as I helped Ky with the kids and some of her organizational goals! But, most of all, it was a lot of fun. I love being with my grandkids--all of them, and I was fortunate to be able to spend lots of time with Kres and Beckham, and some time with Trey, too.

I wrote a story for Kres about us, my animal friends, and hats. Ollie Elf was a main character, too. Here is one of the pictures from the book.

Here we are after Ollie switched our hats!

I went to preschool with Kres and Ella (his cousin), and read the story to the class. They all loved it!

Kres loves to build things. So, I took my blocks and spent a lot of time playing blocks with him. Beckham joined in the fun, too.

Like I said, he loves to build things, and here he is with another creation.

Trey came over, and helped build with blocks, too. After they built the towers, they played "block bowling"--can you guess what that was?

Trey also helped Ron put together some shelving for Ky's garage. They both worked hard to get the job done! Thanks, Trey!

Beckham's Aunt Amber decided he would be an adorable little girl--so she gave him a St. Patty green ribbon for his hair! Beckham is very tolorent of everything, so he just went along with it! (and he is adorable--boy or girl!)

Everytime I put my walking shoes on, Kres, wanted to "tie" them. It was fascinating watching him weave those laces until not an inch was loose. I think he has the idea, but it took Trey and I about 10 minutes to "untie" my shoes!

Let me tell you, those "ties" were a work of art!

All good things must come to an end, and Kres hates it when anyone leaves. He loves his cousins!
Well, it was nice to be have something really worthwhile to do, so I enjoyed my time in Boise. Thanks Ky, Kres and Beckham for a fun 3 weeks! And, thanks, Trey for coming to visit and help us out.

THIS IS FOR THE BIRDS!

2010-02-12T17:23:00.000-08:00

Every winter Ron enjoys feeding and watching the birds. I have to admit, I love them, too. This is one of the perks of country living! Last weekend, Kres and Beckham came to visit and helped Grandpa feed the birds:

Kres spreads the seed in the driveway--a whole bag full while Grandpa and Beckham supervise. . .

That done, he spreads it out nice and even, and inspects it for quality : )

Next step--stand back and watch what the birds do:

They start by watching from the trees--

As soon as everyone is out of sight, the birds gather. The red-winged blackbirds are the larger ones. They are really pretty when they fly! The smaller gray ones are wrens. They eat, then fly into the trees, then back to eat some more. It is fun to watch their ritual.

After the blackbirds eat awhile, the doves arrive. They are a much larger bird., but fun to watch. They are usually followed by the quail, It was getting too dark to get a picture of the quail.

Anyway, I love to watch the birds and it's another fun thing for the kids when they come to grandma's house!

BUT THAT'S NOT ALL WE DO . . .

We enjoyed watching Beckham crawling and trying to walk. . .

...and his new pattycake skill...

Kresimir and I had fun decorating a Valentine tree!

I'm happy to say--the birds and grandkids brought a lot of joy into our llives this weekend!

WHO AM I?

2010-01-16T07:53:00.000-08:00

I have been entertaining myself lately by cataloging and rereading my genealogical resources. This may sound boring to you, but I have often, and for a long time, been interested in the question, "Who am I".   I find it fascinating to get to know some of my ancestors and to find out if I can see some of myself in them! I have been rereading about George Calvert, my 2nd great grandfather, who immigrated from Yorkshire, England to Port Hope, Canada in 1852. He was my dad's grandfather. Fortunately for me, he wrote a weekly column in the Lindsay Post (he lived in Lindsay), and here is some insight into his character:
March 1880: George Calvert celebrates his birthday. I want to tell you a little news. On Sunday the 29th of Feb 1880 was my birthday so I made up my mind to have a birthday dinner. You will see that it is a rare thing to have a birthday on the 5th Sunday in February--so I fed up a turkey to 20 lb. dressed and called my children together and we had a good time. I will tell you the bill of fare: turkey, roast beef, plum pudding, potatoes, and lettuce of my own growing also green onions and celery. I also had the old cook that cooked my wedding dinner fifty-four yhears ago this month. I think it will be some time before you are favored with news that can equal this.

In another post, he was talking about the farmer's market in a town a short distance away:    It is not a fit place for women to be after coming eight or ten miles. They want to be in a warmer place. Improve the market house and have a stove to warm the place for these fine women.

I like this story: I sold some wood to a fellow in Port Hope for $1.25 a cord. On the way with the first load, my sleigh pitched over 3 times and I had to reload.   I had contracted for 6 cord, so I fixed the sleigh.   When I got there, he said to return in 2 weeks and he would pay me. So I called the next Saturday, and he told me to return on Tuesday. I did so. Still no cash--I was to return on Saturday--then Thursday, again.. Well, I had a wife and 4 kids, and my wife told me to not come home until I had the money. So On Thursday, I took off my overcoat and said I was staying with him until Saturday. However, he tried very hard to get me to go away, but I felt comfortable.   He made me terrible promises, so also did his wife, but I told him I would stop until I got the money, so he said he would try to borrow the amount. He came back with $3.00. I would not have it. I would stop until I got it all and so I got it all in a short time. I was glad to get out of the house, but that man never spoke to me after. I knew he was rich. We worked hard for what he had to pay. If you think it is worthwhile, you can print these few lines. I have nothing to do at present but to write a little.

This man raised 9 of his own children and 2 grandchildren, whose parents were killed in a house fire.
I think too often we think of ancestors as dead people. Maybe we should look at them as real people, and we can get to know them and apprediate them more. I see a lot of myself in George. I love to write and am somewhat opinionated. I admire him for defending and respecting the women in his stories. He was known as a devout Baptist (help build and pay for the church in Lindsay, and his son, John, acted as minister for a short time because they could find no one else to do it). He was instrumental in having alchohalic beverages banned in the city of Lindsay. (my dad was also anti alchohol and never drank even a drop. People used to give him Calvert whiskey at Christmas time, and it line a shelf in our basement, unopened!) He was a master gardner and won many prizes for his produce. He lived to be 85. It's been kind of fun to get to know George!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL. . .

2009-12-12T14:39:00.000-08:00

I LOVE CHRISTMAS AND CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS. WE ALWAYS GO OUT FULL FORCE IN OUR DECORATING. ALAS, WE HAD NO ONE TO HELP US THIS YEAR, SO RON AND I STARTED ON MONDAY, AND FINISHED FRIDAY MORNING. HERE'S A LITTLE TOUR OF OUR HOUSE AT CHRISTMAS TIME.

WE'LL START IN THE LIVING ROOM. . .

THIS IS PART OF OUR CHRISTMAS VILLAGE, IT'S IN THE MIDDLE OF THE 3-TABLE DISPLAY

THIS IS THE RIGHT HAND

SIDE OF THE VILLAGE. ..

THE RIGHT END OF THE TABLE--HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS. THE HOUSE TELLS "THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, AS EACH ROOM LIGHTS UP. THE TREE NEXT TO IT HAS A VILLAGE, SKATERS, SNOWMEN, ETC WINDING UP TO THE TOP.

THE NATIVITIES OCCUPY THE LEFT END OF THE TABLE. ABOVE THE DISPLAY, THE WINDOWS ARE DECORATED WITH ICICYCLE WHITE LIGHTS.

NOTHING SAYS CHRISTMAS LIKE A CHRISTMAS TREE--THIS ONE IS DONE IN BLUE AND SILVER AND IS IN THE CORNER OF THE LR

THE NUTCRACKERS AND SNOWMEN MAKE THE TRANSITION INTO THE DINING ROOM. .

THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITES ON DISPLAY IN THE DINING ROOM--OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS TO GRANDMOTHER'S HOUSE WE GO. . . .

THIS IS IN THE KITCHEN--SANTAS ON TOP AND BOTTOM OF THE STOVE.

THIS IS THE DISPLAY IN THE FAMILY ROOM--AND THE LITTLE KIDS ARE WELCOME TO PLAY ANYTHING IN THE FR

OF COURSE, MOTHER NATURE DID SOME DECORATING OF HER OWN. THE DOVES ARE HIDING UNDER THE TREE TO FIND SAFETY FROM THE WIND AND SNOW

I HAVE LEFT A FEW THINGS OUT--LIKE THE CANDLE DISPLAY AND THE POINSETTA ON THE DINING ROOM TABLE AND THE DECORATIONS ON THE TOP OF THE PIANO, BUT THIS IS GETTING PRETTY LONG AND YOU ARE PROBABLY BORED. SO, I WILL JUST SAY--MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND I HOPE YOU ENJOY THE SEASON AS MUCH AS I DO!

A little Lift

2009-11-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

Well, after being down for so long, and Ron being down, too, it was getting a little gloomy around here. But, last weekend Randy and Trampis came to stay after a football game, and Ky, Kres and Beckham dropped in for a surprise visit!! I was so happy to have everyone here for a short time. Trampis and Randy did quite a bit of work around the place in the way of winterizing; and of course, Kres had to help.

Trampis isn't real comfortable holding babies, but Beckham didn't realize it!

Randy and Kres experimented with how high you can build a block tower before it falls over!

Beckham, in the meantime, was exploring new foods!

Then the work began. Trampis and Kres helped Randy put some summer things in the barn loft for winter storage.

Putting the 4-wheelers away for the winter was a fun job for Kres and Randy.

Kres found an elk shed that was a little too hard for a little boy to handle!

..So Randy helped him out!

Riding the saddles was an OK job, too.

Bekham had plenty of time to explore in the familly room!

Beckham is so cute and sweet!

Putting the last touches on the clean up--Kres explores one more time. All in all, it was a great weekend. Thanks for dropping in, Ky and helping me in the house, and Thanks to Trampis and Randy for helping so much outside! we love you all!

Fun Healthy Eating

2009-11-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

Recentlyl, Ron and I decided to embark on a healthy eating life--quite different for us. So, I count carbs and calories and try to go for a healthy balance (I feel like a hospital cook, because I weigh and measure everything :))In the following recipes I will be showing you, when I refer to milk, sour cream cheese, cottage cheese, etc, it is always low fat. Here are a few things we have tried and enjoyed.

I began by stealing Krissy's Light Meals cookbook from Taste of Home, and using my Fix it and Forget it Lightly crock pot cookbook. Both are excellent sorces for healthy recipes.

for Chhili Mac Casserole, measure one cup of elbow macaronni or small shells, cook it and set it aside.

Brown 2 lb lean ground beef, onion and garlic. Add 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 can kidney beans, drained; 1 small tomato sauce, 1 small can green chilis, 1 teas salt, 1 teas chili powder, 1/2 teas pepper. Now add the cooked macaroni. Transfer to a large pan or casserole dish, bake for 30 min, top with 2 cups low fat cheese and bake 5 min longer. One 1 cup serving has 343 calories and it is delicious. I served it with green salad with low fat dressing mixed in and a sugar-free orange jello with mandarin oranges and cool whil mixed in.

Take the left overs from the dish above, add chicken broth--1 or 2 cans, depending on how many leftovers, and it makes a great soup!! I served it with a slice of fresh homemade whole wheat bread and 1/2 an apple.

This was very good if you like Chinese food. I sautaed 1 cup celery, 1 cup sliced onion, 1 lb package of bean sprouts, 1 small can mushrooms, 2 handfulls of frozen mixed vegies untilk limp but still crisp in canola oil. I then added 1 can chicken broth, mixed with 2 TBS corn starch while cold and 1 TBS soy sauce and 1TB honey. I then added some left over roast pork--but y ou can use any leftover meat you want to, or canned meat or shrimp. I served on 3/4 cup canned Chinese hard noodles. I served it with sugar-free jello made with 1 small can no-sugar added fruit. It was yummy!

Brown 1 lb hamburger, add 1 TBS flower and 1 cup milk, 1 cup of frozen vegies (I used mixed) Serve as a gravy over 3/4 cup instant mashed potatoes. Serve with no-sugar-added applesauce and coleslaw with tomatoes and a light mayonais dessing.

This is the leftovers from above, served on 3/4 cup spiral noodles, coleslaw and applesauce with cinnamon, 1 TBS chopped walnuts and 1/8 cup raisens

Start with 1 cup fat free sour cream, add 2 teas lemon pepper and 1 teas dill. smear a little of the sour cream in the bottom of the crockpot, add 2 boneless-skinless chicken breasts and put the rest of the sour cream on top the chicken. cook on high for 2 1/2 hours, serve with 1 cup winter squash and sf jello. Even Ron liked this one, and he doesn't like sour cream!

This is 3 oz salmon fillet cooked in 1 teas canola or olive oil, 1 cup winter squash, 1 cup spinich and 1 purchased dessert cake topped with 1/2 cup splenda sweetened rasberries and a dolup of cool whip!

We have enjoyed other yummy things, like ginger beef served on rice noodles, vegetable beef soup, and a 4 oz steak served with a ww english muffin and green salad with 1 TBS thousand Island Dressing.,

Hope you have enjoyed these menus and had a glimpse into our new healthy-eating plan. It's actually kind of fun!!

YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE!

2009-11-05T08:37:00.000-08:00

I decided, in honor of NBM (National Blogger's Month), :) I would do a flashback post. This takes us back to September of 1983.

This picture takes us back to 1983. My friend, Eileen Furguson (on the left) and I (right) were stay-at-home moms trying to think of ways to make a little extra money.   I had 5 kids and she had 3. So, we decided to dress up like clowns and sell balloons during the Pendleton Roundup.   Here were are, all ready for the big parade.   We each carried 50 balloons, and we made Randy into a clown, too, tied 50 balloons to his suspenders (much to his chagrin), and we all went along with the parade sellling the balloons. The idea was, when we had sold ours, we would take Randy's and then send him on ahead to where we stashed our helium tank to blow up more balloons.   About a block into the parade, Eileen sold her first balloon; and, not remembering that she was holding 49 other balloons, reached into her pocket to get change, and away they went. The crowd loved it--but we weren't too happy.   We quickly untied Randy's balloons and sent him on ahead. Twice during the parade, I was approached by carnival people who informed me the parade was exclusively their territory and we should get lost!   Well, we had bought a liscense from city hall, so we knew we were ok! After the parade, we sold balloons near the entrance to the Round Up. We did pretty good--2 parades and 2 days of selling before the show, losing 50 balloons and paying for them and a helium tank, we each netted a little over $800--and the balloons were sold for $50 a piece.   We were pretty successful, but we had bought 3000 balloons and had some left over, so we went to Ellensburg, Washington and did the same for their big Round-up! Can you even imagine--ME as a CLOWN!! It was fun!

Other happenings around the same time: (From my journal)

Kim went off to BYU. She didn't really want to go, but she wanted to be there (if only she could take her family!) A lot of tears were shed by Kim, me, Ky and Krissy!!

We have a Lamenite foster child this year--Craig Tapaha, from Wolf Point Montana. This opens a new chapter in our lives!

No school today--it was declared a National Day of Morning in honor of the Korean jet that was shot down over Russia.

Ron had surgery to have a rather large tumor removed from his nasal cavity. It was so big they had to break his nose to get it out!   Thank goodness it wasn't cancerous!

Robert is doing well in school and is the manager of the 9th grade basketball team--something he really enjoys! He enjoys lots of friends and has a good social life.

Randy is determined to be a good athlete. He was a starter on the 7th grade football team, and is on the traveling basketball team. He is also 4th chair trumpet in the band.

Kylene loves school--she finished the 3rd grade math book in 1/2 a year and is now in the 4th grade book!

Krissy loves school and is doing well.   She has a special kind of personality and is full of self-esteem!!

Mom's estate is finally settled, and we will receive $132 a month for 10 years!

I am substituting a little and enjoying being a mom!

Hope you enjoyed my flashback!

How to Survive Back Surgery 101

2009-10-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

I just had my 14th surgery, and that's 14 too many! Someone said, "You could write a book" . . .so, here goes. You can make surviving back surgery (or any surgery for that matter), by planning ahead.

believe it or not, a small incision can cause a lot of painYou'll need a few good books

. . .a few mmindless-reading magazines

a phone, a remote for the light switch, a paging system, and, sadly, a barph pan : (

You'll need a cane and a devise to pick things up off the floor--because when you can't bend, lift or twist, you drop everything. . .

Don't forget someone or something to keep you company. . .

. . .a computer and Sudku book are necessities. .

You definitely need pain pills, pills for muscle spasms, and anti-inflammatory pills. . .

Ice packs--more than one, because you will definitely forget to put them back in the freezer. . .

A TV, with lots of good programs DVR'd to waatch during the wee hours of the night when you are iceing your back--

And, of course, tape and gauze to protect the incision, and plastic bags to tape over it when you shower...

Don't forget the high-fiber snacks to get the bodily functions moving. . .

A couple of good caregivers are essential. . .

After all of this, you should be pretty well set. Then be patient. It's been three weeks, and I am still using all of the above, waiting and hoping for the day the pain goes away and all is well. But, in spite of all the planning, I forgot one thing....CANDLES---the power went out yesterday from 2 pm until 9:30 pm. It's really weird to be in the house with no power but candles, and you don't feel like getting dressed and going someplace and the house gets darker and colder and darker and colder--until, finallly a truck shows up at the power pole across from the house, you see sparks flying from the top of the pole and . . .at least it gives you something to do when all else fails. Well, hope you learned a little about surviving surgery--I'm still in that mode and hope to be feeling a lot better soon!

Mm hw R U

2009-10-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, Oct 14

Mm hw R u?

doing pretty good--not as much pain. Went for a walk

Thursday, Oct 15

M hw R U?

bttr wnt 4 3 wlks & only tk 3 pn plls

Friday, Oct 16
Mm whre r U?

stl at Krissys--cnt travl untl seing dr on 20th

Fri, Oct 16
M hw r U?

Things I dd tday:
sm lndry, 2 wlks, md bred, but K got out mxr, flr,etc, tk lng np, 3 pn pls,
evryon lving to move cws at strky--ht being alone--MKS LNG EVNING

Satruday, Oct 17

Mm hw r u?
ALN E! TK WLK, TK SHWR BY MSELF, AM DOING SDOKU PZLS NOW, MRE PAIN--TK PL AND TK NP. HOPE u R AL HVING GD WKEND AND EVRYON S OVR BEING SCK. LV 2 ALL
MOM

Random Thoughts . . .

2009-09-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

I am addicted to frosted animal cookies ! : (

Cats are sooooo worth knowing. . .

1/3 off is not the same as 30% off on the sales rack. . .

Music I can play makes me happy....I am so grateful to my dad for insisting his girls play the piano, encourageing me when I was learning the clarinet, and supporting me through my determination to take organ lessons.   He's the reason music has been such an important part of my life.   Playing your own music soothes the soul!

How dull life would be without the ability to be creative!

I have been fortunate in my life to be able to develop and use some of my talents!

I love the fall season, and winter squash!

I hate being unable to do something--whatever it is and for whatever reason. . .

Cell phones are both a curse and a blessing!

Gooy, rich desserts are EVIL!

I love the temple and what I learn there--it gives me direction in life.

I have been blessed with great kids and grandkids!

I always wanted to be able to sing and ride a horse.

I am tired of "standing around" all day, and being unable to sit for more than 10 minutes without hurting!

I have a list of good books to read--thanks to Kim and goodreads.com!

I'm reading a book about a guy who sees and communiates with ghosts, zombies, and spirits of every kind. Are you surprised?   I am, too! But, it's pretty good. (it's fiction) I'm going to read Carol's recommended 6 books next. . .

I ordered a Hoover Steam Vac Duel 5 from Costo for $149 and free shipping.   I checked it out on Sears (they were having a big sale) and the sale price was $229.   Did I get a bargain or what?
I hope it's user friendly! (and gets the carpets clean)!

Old age brings a sense of peace,a sense of worthlessness, a sense of accomplishment, a sense of sadness, a sense of joy in watching your kids as adults and their kids accomplishing because they are good parents, a sense of fear. . .

WOE IS ME/RON'S A SAINT!!

2009-09-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

Since the Family Reunion, I have been SUFFERING from a pinched/inflamed siatic nerve. In case you are wondering what suffering means, invision, and try to imagine, someone stabbing your left hip with a big knife, then twisting it and pulling it down your leg! Then imagine not being able to sit or lay without intense pain. After standing most of the day, or leaning against a wall standing only on your right leg, imagine how good it would feel to finally go to bed. Relief at last----but, then you have to get u p in the morning, which creates more pain than you can ever imagine in your left leg, to the point that it causes you to weep uncontrollably! Well, that's how you suffer with siatic nerve pain. So, I have been receiving chiropractic help. Then one day, we thought maybe we could use the stretching devise Ron has for his back. So, he strapped me in one Sunday night--object, to stretch the back and maybe unpinch the nerve. So, here I am:

The devise stretches the back for 10 minutes, you rest for 10 and repeat 3 times. It didn't hurt at all UNTIL--I had to get up. My back went into spasms, I couldn't move, and the pain was so intense I actually went into shock. I was so cold, shivering uncontrollably, and sobbing! Now, here's part of why Ron's a SAINT. He helped me lay down, got me a warm quilt, propped my feet up and stayed with me until things calmed down. Then I fell asleep for 5 hours. then he helped me to a lower bed, got me comfortable. and watched over me while I slept 8 more hours!! SINCE THEN (going on 2 weeks now), He has to help me get out of bed and get moving, while I cry from the pain, he has to help me shower, dress, and do whatever else has to be done. He even lets me hang onto his arm in public!!!! (he hates public affection--is that a Waite thing?)

Last Friday and today I went to see Dr Alan Waite, and already I feel better. But, I have a long way to go. So, woe is me, and thanks to Ron for being the best husband ever, and a saint!!

THE LAST WORD OF SUMMER. . .

2009-08-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

In our adventures this summer, we discovered a scrapbook store in a little cottage in the country. It was adorable inside and out. But, this place had a couple of extra perks--like a swing and lots of animals. The kids loved going there. Cynjyn and Kres enjoyed the swing.

Then they discovered the miniature donkeys. Here's a new-born, as cute as can be!

Not only is the baby adorable, but his spotted mama is kind of unusual, too!

Here's a potrait of the little guy (or girl)? Adorable

Well--back to the family reunion. Kres has a look of terror on his face because Taz liked to put him on the little cart and speed down the entire, empty gathering hall. The face tells the story!

This all took place before other people arrived. Needless to say, we put it away before the other kids could discover the fun! The hall was then filled with tables and chairs.

Here we have some adults relaxing in the kitchen, while . . . .

Kresimir and Cynjyn did the dishes!!

and Trampis tried to beat Randy at a game of ping pong in the game room!

During the summer, Kim and Beckham really bonded! They had a true love for one-another!

Well, you know how mixed up I always am--these kittens were playing under the porch at the scrapbook store.

Taz, Beckham and Kres liked to snuggle in the big chair under the quilt Taz made for himself.

It amazes me how well these two can do puzzles. All of Kim's kids are good at puzzles, and it seems Kres has inherited the talent, too. Here they tackle a floor-sized dinasaur puzzle. I don't think the other grandkids enjoy them quite as much!

Kres looked quite satisfied with the whole summer!

I accidently loaded this picture--don't ask me how! But, what's cuter than a little boy contemplating a mud puddle?

No more summer fun

2009-08-22T12:28:00.000-07:00

Well, the summer fun is over for the year and everyone has gone back home to get ready for school. Here's where my grandkids stand in school:
Talon is 19 and currently working at a good job at Wells Fargo Bank. He is a salaried employee and I don't think he is planning to take any schooling this year.
Tanner is almost 15 and will be in 9th grade.
Trampis is 14 and will also be in 9th grade.
Trey is 14 and is planning to repeat 8th grade so he can grow a little more before he starts high school! He's a smart kid and a good student, but basketball is his passion, so he is hoping to get a little taller.
Ella is 11 1/2 and is starting middle school--6th grade.
Taz just turned 11 and is also starting middle school--6th grade.
Cynjyn is 8 and I think she will be in 3rd grade.
Kresimir just turned 3 and will be in pre-school!
TIME MARCHES ON

As for me--here's some of my thoughts today

I'm bummed because:

Everyone is doing facebook and I don't understand how to use it, so I am really missing the updated blogs!! Please, bloggers, don't stop blogging!

I am recovering from having a 4 1/2 sq inch piece of my right breast removed. Thank goodness the m ass wasn't a tumor, but I can't seen to get my energy back

Part of that might be because I have an inflamed siatic nerve that is distressing my left leg with terrible, almost unmanageable pain! I do the alternating ice/hot packs 3 times a day but I still can hardly move.

But I did decide to go to the farmer's market this morning. But, they are having a Crossing the Blues celebration today, so the streets are blocked off for blocks around and I couldn't walk far enough. sooo--Maybe a little TV?

No. My old-buddy TV gave up the ghost right after Ron left town for a couple of days. Then I tried to use his TV and couldn't change the channel for some reason. So--maybe I'll read.

Well, that worked for awhile until I finished my good book (Hunger Garmes) and didn't have another one to read.

Really bummed now--I tried housework, but my leg hurts too much and I have no energy.

Maybe I'll work on New Family Search--no, too frustrating b ecause everyone I've looked up so far has been wrong! (Well, 80% have been wrong) I'll wait until they get the bugs worked out!

So, no tv, no book, no family, no NFS, no updated blogs, no energy, and virtually no use of my left leg--just sitting causes a constant burning sensation and moving causes extreme pain. Don't ask me what I did, I don't know!

As soon as Ron gets home, I'm going to make him go with me to get a new TV--that's positive!

Well, I really don't think anyone reads my blog, but I got those thoughts off my mind, anyway. Sure hope things start looking up!

Fun Times Continue

2009-07-25T13:30:00.000-07:00

Grandpa has spent a lot of time babysitting Beckham so everyone else could enjoy the fun times! This is a good way to babysit!

We spent 3 days at Wallowa Lake. We rented the trout pond house. Here some of us are on the patio: Cynjyn, Kim, Taz, Trey, Me and Ella.

Kres turned the cooler into a horse (he invented this himself), after he rode "Joe" at the horse corral.

The kids enjoyed "movie night" in one of the bedrooms. It was about 10 pm, but none of them would admit to being tired!!

Beckham and Krissy bonded.

Here the horseback riders are leaving for a ride. I took the picture from the window, where I was babysitting

Kres and Trey play a little chess. I think Trey is winning!

Time to feed the fish--Trey, Taz and Kres made sure they were never hungry.

Beckham entertained Kim and the kids. He was so good and fun .

the kids found this big chair, and loved sharing it!

Kres wasn't sure he wanted to sit by this old timer, but Taz, Cynjyn and Ella really liked him.

Watch out, Kres, Cynjyn might get bucked off!

One fun thing about Wallowa Lake is all the deer in the park--here's the first big one we saw.

Having the deer right outside the house is always fun.

Kres and Taz are real buddies--here they relax with a little TV

Ella and Cynjyn always like to put on "shows". Here's Ella modeling Ky's homecoming dress. My camera ran out of batteries, so I didn't get Cynjyn's modeling, but she was adorable in her new school clothes.

Kres wanted to model, too, so here he is in one of Cynjyn's new school outfits.

Summer Fun

2009-07-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

What is summer without s'mores? Taz can't even imagine!

Summer fun would be better without all that technology! Trey waites patiently for Tanner to finish a game. We banned phones for awhile!

Time for dinner at the 4th of July Terry BBQ

Gather Round to enjoy a little U Tube

How about a game of Wii with Trampis?

Trampis and Taz compete in Skete Shooting

Cnyjyn goes after the fallen, but unbroken, clay pigeons!

Ella almost got a Bull's Eye on her second try!

Cynjyn lines up to try to hit the target with a little help from Kim.

Taz shows off where he hit the bull's eye

Matching outfits for the special day!

Funky twin hairdos for Cynjyn and Ella-

Bonding with pop ice for Kresimir and Taz

Slushies at the waterpark

Taz and Kres enjoy spounting fountains--a great way to cool off!

I WON!

2009-06-24T22:00:00.000-07:00

I Won a prize in Carol's contest and I have to post this!

That story's kind of fun--How can it possibly be??

You never get tired of seeing those elk!

2009-06-23T19:31:00.000-07:00

This is actually part of the next post, but I don't know how to download more than 5 puictures at a time, so read the next one, too. This shows only a few of the elk we saw, and frequently see, on the way to the 480. We can usually depend on 100-200 head at any time of the year in this area. These were only about 1/2 mile from our place (The 480, as it's commonly called)

Ahhh Spring

2009-06-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

Spring is such a great time of year! It always prompts a few little changes around the house--like in the kitchen--Can you tell what's different? Nothing like new bedding to spruce up a bedroom and make y ou wish you could paint a room by yourself!

Oh yes, don't forget a 4-wheel ride in the great outdoors! The Terry family joined us for a fun day in the mountains!

Well, this is a different mountain--the 480. Krissy was feeling a little spry because of the beautiful weather and the great picnic we had!

Back to the 4-wheeling and another great picnic, which Krissy and Brian are really enjoying!

Spring is my favorite time of year! The weather is wonderful, the trees and fields are so green and gorgeous, family comes to visit, and the flowers are so beautiful. And now summer is here, and that's not too bad, either!

Getting to Know My Dad

2009-06-22T18:34:00.001-07:00

Well, I wanted to put in a p icture of my dad, but I didn't have one I could put in (limited knowledge on transferring pictures!) But, father's day prompted me to think of my dad. My children knew and revered their Grandpa Waite, but they never knew their Grandpa Calvert in "real life". So, in this tribute, I hope they learn a little more about him and what he was like

My dad, "Bill Calvert" was raised on a poor dirt farm in Montana. His mother, a hard German Woman, threw his dad out when he was very young. He became the breadwinner for his mother, 3 brothers and one sister. He quit school in 9th grade to go to work for the railroad so he could support the family. He was 14.

He worked hard all of his life, but became a very wealthy, well-respected and well-known community member in La Grande, Oregon. Without a formal education, he became "self-educated" He faithfully read the local paper, the Portland papers and the Wall Street Journal everyday. He owned, managed and did the books for his own well-known restaurant. People came for miles to eat in the Royal Cafe, and many travelers to and from Portland,Oregon, planned their trips so they would arrive in La Grande at meal time. Prior to this adventure, he owned a shoe shop across the street from the restaurant, and made shoes for people during WW II when shoes were rationed. When the war ended, he bought the restaurant and the pool hall on the corner. He converted the pool hall into a banquet room and sucessfully ran the restaurant until he died in 1965.

Some of the traits my dad passed on to me:

*Hard work is important--it involves self-dicipline and always pays off
*You can do anything you want to do if you set your mind to it. He always told us, "You have two sides to your brain, use them both" In this day when people say, "She is right-brained or left-brained" as an excuse for not doing some things well, I can proudly say, "I am whole brained, and my linguistic, musical and mathematical abilities proves it!" Thanks dad.
*Practice makes perfect. He wisely flowered us with praise when we played our musical instruments or got A's on assignments. This made us want to practice more. I still play the piano and organ fairly well, and I love writing short stories These are skills I learned through practice. Thanks dad.
*Don't give up I can't tell you how many times I fell off those water skies before I finally got out of the water, or how many times we stayed up late into the night when he was helping me with a math assignment. Here was a man who didn't finish 9th grade helping me with my calculus and getting it right! Thanks dad.
*He was forever a teacher. He would stop at power damns when we were traveling and explained to us very young children how they worked; he would show us moss on the rocks and trees and teach us a lesson about that; he would teach us history, math, science, geometry--anything we wanted to know about. He could do anything and knew something about everything it seemed. And, in his teaching, he was patient beyond belief! I became a teacher, largely because of his example. Although he was never a "professional" teacher, he was the best teacher I ever had. Thanks dad
*He was always loving and kind to our mother and to us kids. I only remember one time in my whole childhood when he raised his voice at me (I wanted to go to a party instead of go to work at the restaurant, and he had worked already 16 hours that day and needed a break) He raised his voice a little when he told me I needed to be responsible and do what I said I would do (work). Needless to say, I chose work and cried for 2 hours because I felt so bad about even asking. Other than that, all he had to say was, "I'm disappointed in your choice", and that was discipline enough for us. He always led by example. thanks dad

This is getting too long, and no one will want to read it, but it was important to me to do something to remember my dad and think about what he meant to me. I am so lucky to have had such a great dad! Thanks dad

A TRIBUTE

2009-05-23T16:47:00.000-07:00

I often go walking in the Grandview Cemetary, overlooking the beautiful Grande Ronde Valley. Today was a very special day; it was beautiful beyond belief, and the "Avenue of Flags" was a beautiful reminder that it is Memorial Day Weekend. The veterans are honored on this weekend, and each veteran has a little flag by his/her grave. George "Bud" Hendrickson, whose grave is shown above would be proud to be buried in a cemetary that honors Veterans and be surrounded by American Flags. In addition, over 200 flags line the avenues of the cemetary. Each flag represents a soldier who lost his/her life in the line of duty to our Country. The flags are donated for the weekend by family members who were awarded those flags when only a body returned home after combat. This is such a beautiful display and it can't help but bring tears to the eyes when remembering all of those, alive and dead, who sacrificed a part of their life so that we might be free!

Above is the view from the top of the hill. Bud's grave is by the little tree.

This is the same spot, but the view is looking up instead of down the hill.

This avenue goes down from the mosoleum and connects to the ones I just showed.

This view looks down on the Veteran's Memorial, which is in the center of the cemetary. I know we are remembering loved ones who have passed on this Memorial Day. Let us also take a few minutes to honor, thank, and remember those who have served our country, and in many cases, lost their lives. I would like to thank a few members of my and Ron's family for their service and sacrifice:

My Dad, Bill Calvert could not serve as a foot soldier, because he was too short (5' tall) and had flat feet. So he served in the Army Corp of Engineers building military houseing and power dams during WWII

John Hendrickson, recipient of a Purple Heart

Bud Hendrickson, recipient of a Purple Heart

Leon Hendrickson, recipient of a Purple Heart

Edward Waite

Richard Waite--Army and Air Force

Dennis Waite--Marine Corp

Alan Waite--Army

Dmitri Waite

Kresimir Waite

Patxi Waite

Clay Thurston--Afganistan

Jay Lawson---West Point Graduate

Jack Jensen

Russell Farmer
Thank you all, and many others who I may have overlooked. I admire you and love you for your service. I am proud to be an American!

TUESDAY

2009-05-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

Well, Kim did a Tuesday last week, so I decided to do a Tuesday this week, so here goes:

6 am--Got up, showered, got ready for the day, ate breakfast
6:30--made the twin beds up with the clean sheets I washed yesterday, vacuumed the room and put the beds back where they belonged. Vacuumed the pink room.
7:15 Picked up in the kitchen, checked out the mail from yesterday
8:30 went to TOPS for an hour
10:00 Visited with my visiting teacher
11:15 Cleaned the bathroom by the kitchen, and the utility room. vacuumed and mopped both rooms
12:00 Had lunch
12:30 vacuumed the filters in the furnace
1:30 Cleaned the mud room
2:30 Went around the house and vacuumed ceiling cobwebs
3:30 Rested for a bit
4:00 Cleaned out and straightened my medicine cabinet--threw out old and never-used stuff!
(The proper way to dispose of pills you didn't use is to put them in a baggie with some water and disolve them, then add coffee grounds, sand or cat litter and dispose in your garbage can. I opted for the cat litter)
4:30 Vacuumed the big bedroom and bathroom
5:00 Went for a walk
6:00 Made dinner (Soupa Tuscana and French Bread)
6:30 did dishes
7:10 went to a band concert at the high school (it was good, but I almost fell asleep!)
9:15 Had a snack of watermelon and watched some of the programs I had DVR'd
11:00 Went to bed

La Gande Open House

2009-05-17T08:27:00.001-07:00

No one has ever posted pictures of the La Grande reception, so here are a few. The Island City Hall does the decorating every month, and since it was April, they did an Easter theme.

We made the centerpieces pretty simple.

This was the gift table

This was the fun refreshment table. The punch fountain was on a ledge behind the table on the left. People love those punch fountains, and they liked the fun refreshments--a variety of cheesecake, donuts cream puffs, cookies and candies! Since the Boise reception was very elaborate, we wanted this one to be pretty simple--for a smaller crowd! Sure wish all of the relatives and friends from here could have seen the Boise reception!

Lovin those puzzles. . .

2009-05-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Ky's little guy, Kresiumir, (age 2 2/3) loves to do puzzles all by himself! I love to watch him. He props the picture to look at and organizes his pieces. . .

He carefully thinks about where he wants to start . . .

Wow, almost done!

Got to get those hard-to-reach places!

Happy boy--finished product! This amazes me because I have a hard time putting together a 24 piece puzzle--He didn't get the puzzle gene from me!!

Grandchild number nine arrived!

2009-04-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

Our newest family member arrived safely yesterday! Beckham La Grande Thurston, born to Ky and Clay. What a sweet boy he is! Here is Beckham with his big brother, Kresimir, and Dad! More to come later!

Sunny Mexico

2009-04-12T19:32:00.001-07:00

This blog and the one that follows are very confusing because I think in terms of the first picture being first and the last one last. But, that's not the way it works. These pictures were all taken when Ron and I went to Puerta Villarta, Mexico for a week to stay with our friends, Loren and Rae Nebeker. The blog will make more sense as you go along ( I hope). In the above picture, see if you can see the giant iguana that spied on us everyday when we parked to go to the beach. It is on the left laying in the shadow.

Loren and I enjoyed the ocean, but Ron and Rae refused to go in the water. The water was really warm and it was fun to play in the waves. I made Loren promise to help me up if a wave washed me over, and in his attempt to do so, he fell, too! It was fun and relaxing.

This little old lady sat with her loom and weaved beautiful tapistries when she wasn't making beaded jewelry. We asked permission to take her picture. Most of the shops are in the open air and in very tiny spaces. We didn't buy anything, but it was fun to look.

The streets in PV are all very narrow and usually have cars parked on both sides of the street with 2-way traffic. If you are driving and someone is coming the other way, you have to figure a way to get out of the way--which may involving backing up and parking on the street! In the background of this picture was a beautiful Catholic Cathedral, which we walked through.

This is a picture of a typical residential area. The tiny shops are on the street and some of the luckier and richer people live above. Many of the people in the area around PV live in tiny, delapadated shacks!

We had fun trying a different restaurant every night. This one was right on the ocean and the food was very good. A Mexican band entertained while we ate. Ron, of course, had fish. I had Filet Migon--which was the size of a small roast and very delicious. It came sitting on a pile of mashed potatoes and was served with green beans.

This was interesting--at the Mega store, the men in the background have a hugh slab of bread dough. They cut off a hunk of bread, shape it and pop it in the oven. When it is done, it goes into a hugh barrel on the shopping floor (about 4 feet in diameter) If you want to buy bread, you get a tray (lower left in picture) and a large tong. You go to the barrel, pick out your bread, take it to the counter to have it weighed and bagged. The breads may look different, but they all taste the same because they are all made from the same dough. They have racks and racks of pasteries and breads in the open--nothing is covered. The same process is used to buy cakes, cookies, donuts, etc.

Here we are at the waterfront shopping area in beautiful Puerta Villarta, where we spent a week with our friends, Loren and Rae Nebeker.

Sunny Mexico

2009-04-12T19:17:00.001-07:00

Our friends, Loren and Rae Nebeker, invited us to spend a week with them at their condo in Puerta Villarta, Mexico (actually 20 miles from PV). So, we left Mar 30 and came back April 6. When we left, it was snowing, so it was so nice to go where it was sunny and 85 degrees! It was a week after Kris' s wedding and reception in Boise and a week before the reception in La Grande. It was nice to relax for a week! In the above picture, we are in a little area on the beach at PV.

Right outside their condo door was a gorgeous pool. Not many people were using their condos when we arrived, so Loren and I took advantage and enjoyed the pool Ron and Rae wouldn't join us--their loss!

This is the view from the roof of the condo--a nice place to enjoy the sun and play a game or have dinner outdoors. They were about 6 blocks from the public beach.

This is the view of the other condos from the table right outside their door. They had a floor condo and always had this view of the pool.

Here we are at the beach enjoying the sun and the perfect weather.

Beautiful Memories

2009-03-28T14:14:00.000-07:00

I am posting only a few pictures of Krissy's Boise reception, because she probably wants to do her own, but I couldn't resist these. Here is one of my 5 beautiful (or handsome as the case may be) children: l to r: Kim, Randy, Krissy, Rob and Ky (8 months pregnant!)

This is the only picture I had with Brian in it--I left those up to the professional photographer--Rob's family is with Kris and Brian--Rob, Jodi and Trey

Daddy and daughter!

Kris and her mom

My beautiful (or handsome) grandkids: back l to r: Talon, Trey, Tanner, Kresimir, Trampis

(front) Ella, Cynjyn and Taz. They are in front of the cake table

Kim's Tag Response

2009-03-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

I was challenged to find the 6th picture in the 6th folder and here it is! This was the picture I took after I canned 21 quarts of pears and then someone gave me another box of fruit to can. Therefore, you get that "Oh no! Do I really want to do this" look!

So--What Do Retirees Do?

2009-03-03T17:37:00.000-08:00

We enjoy the grandkid's art work--That's Ella hiding behind Trampis' art work!

We enjoy watching grandkids play ball. Trampis is number 32. He almost broke his hand the day before this picture was taken.

Trampis is the guy on the right.

OOPS! I got the same picture twice! I'm still learning and don't know how to edit!

Trampis is about the 3rd tallest one on the team! He enjoys being tall!

Many people ask, "What do you do now that you are retired?" Here's a bit of a glimpse. . . .

Boy, this was supposed to be at the top of this post! This post is also continued in the next post!

So. . .What Do Retirees Do?

2009-03-03T17:11:00.000-08:00

We help grandkids celebrate birthdays---Ella turns 11! Isn't she pretty?
We watch grandkids play ball--Trey is the guy in the white shirt hustling down the court!

Trey's the one shooting--and he made it!

He made this one, too! Good job Trey!

We experiment with the new camera--This picture of Krissy (sewing) was taken from across 2 rooms! 10X--love it!

Just Musing. . .

2009-02-13T14:14:00.000-08:00

I have had a lot of time lately to think about my life, and I have decided I am one of the lucky people in the world! I have everything I really need, materially, to keep me comfortable. Most important, I have people in my life who make it a good life. Take Ron for instance: He isn't a real exciting person, as far as wanting to do new and unusual things. But, he is a good man--one who puts the needs of others in front of his own, one who loves his family, his church and his country, and one who is a peace with himself, his life, and his past. I love that he does all the laundry, never ignores me when I ask him to help me, and goes the extra mile to make sure HE doesn't add a single thing to MY work load. He loads and unloads things, puts everything away after a trip or after he uses it--well, I could go on and on. Now he's not the only blessing in my life! My children bless my life in so many ways--Kim is always upbeat and fun, and shares her talents with others She is raising a good family, is a good mother and wife, sister and daughter! We could all learn from her in many ways. Robert takes an interest in his parents and tries to include us in many of his plans. We appreciate that. He stops by on his way to and from Boise and never just drives on past, unless he's trying to beat a snowstorm! He is interested in his son's life and provides him many opportunities to develop his athletic abilities--coaches his teams, etc. Randy is the quiet one, but he's a steady man in all that he does. He is loving and kind, a good father, a good husband, and one who loves his family and the Lord. We always enjoy watching his sports teams whenever we can. It was fun to watch him play, and it is fun to watch him coach! Kylene is a great mom, and I love to watch her play with Kres and interact with him and other children. She is always concerned with my health and keeps me posted on how she's doing. She has faced many challenges, but has a solid testimony of the gospel and doesn't wavier! I love that about her. She and Krissy are close enough to where I live to be my "girlfriends", and we share social activities like eating out and movies. It has been fun to live with Krissy and to see her develop into a professional woman and to see her drive to become educated. She has recently found her soulmate and will soon be married in the Boise Temple. She has kept the faith and kept her spiritual goals high. We have shared many things over the years! My grandchildren are the best kids ever! I love every one of them in a special way, and individually! Talon has come to me many times over the years for advice, and I think he has followed most of it. That gives us a special bond. Tanner has a neat sense of humor and has many talents. I love hearing him play the piano! Trampis is like his dad in a lot of ways--quiet and steady. He is a good boy who is turning into a very nice young man. We love to watch him play sports, especially basketball. Trey is loving in that he always gives me a big hug, even in front of his friends, and I appreciate that! I love Trey's hugs! He is also a basketball player and fun to watch and to be with. Ella is a special young lady who is kind to everyone she meets. She has a deep love for people, animals and the earth! And, she lets everyone know it, too! She is a junior activist advocating for peace on earth in every way! Taz is a very active boy with the cutest dimples! He is talented--athletic, a piano player, a singer, a drawer and a story teller. He is always on the go. He makes me happy to see his energy. Cynjyn, my other "girl" is a
sweetheart. She loves her family, and leads her 3 brothers around by the nose!! She has a great imagination and often gets rewarded for that in school! All of the kids mentioned are honor students and several have earned citizenship awards! I['m very proud of them all. Kresimir is only 2 1/2! He is very social and loves to interact with people. He has the sweetest disposition and seldom fusses. He loves to climb and jump, play with his grandma, and do floor puzzles! Of course, he loves all of his cousins, and they love him. He is a special little guy! This is getting long, but I can't forget my son and daughter-in-laws. They are all great parents, that's why I have great grandkids! Jodi helps me fix things and oten cleans for me. She is a whirlwind in getting things done. I appreciate her love for children and her even-going nature. She is a perfect mate for Rob! Darla, over the years, has played hostess to us many times. She is always loving and considerate, no matter how tired or busy she is. She puts her family first in spite of her demanding career. She is a perfect "coach's wife"! Gary has been a great provider and support for his children as a father and as a coach. He and Kim make sure their kids have lots of opportunities to just have fun! He is the best handy man I know--he can do any project you want to name! What a help that is! Clay comes to LG for a few days vacation and is always willilng to help Ron with the cows--feeding, loading the truck, rounding up the cows, moving them, and branding them. What would we do without Clay's help? Brian is already my "computer consultant", and Ron's, too. We always have a list of technology questions for him. And, he is considerate of Krissy in every way! Well, this musing is long, but I feel better. I have been a little down with health problems, so I said to myself, "Count your Blessings!" And, I just did. Now I feel better. We should all do just that occasionally! I am, indeed, a blessed woman!

Snowed in With Memories . . .

2009-01-07T08:04:00.000-08:00

Being snowed in does bizaar things to the mind--so I decided to review some old photos. sorry, but most of them were from Kim's old CD's and I couldn't find any of Trampis or Trey. Maybe I'll leave them for another post because I know I have their pictures somewhere. Anyway, I thought this old picture of Talon was interesting because he has changed sooooo much in 5 years! Handsome guy, then and now!

Kim and Talon enjoyed the snow--but they can be thankful there was no wind! That's the thing I don't like!

This little guy was always cute, but in this picture he has a real loving look in his eye--he must have been looking at his GRANDMA!

I always love Tanner's hair in the morning! He must really toss and turn, because it is always wild in the morning (but he's still adorable)!

Taz has always been my little baker. He was only 6 in this picture and helping with the baking for Christmas!

They got so excited when seeing it snow, so Ky had to take Cynj out in her pj's and coat for a picture. There was a lot more to come . . .

This is just the cutest picture ever! Ella and Cynjyn are modeling the dolls and dresses I made for them. 4 dolls in this picture, that's for sure! Hope you have enjoyed some of my happy memories, and hope I get a camera soon!

Cows don't know it is vacation time

2008-12-31T21:27:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, the cows don't seem to know that some of us are on vacation. Therefore, the work continues.
There is hay loading that needs to be done.

Luckily, there are some extra people to help. Brian and Clay were a big help to Grandpa when it came to loading the truck.

Krissy and even Lola came along to help a couple of the days. Lola has finally learned that she is not really a cow dog (either that or it is just too cold to be a cow dog). She mostly hides under the trucks or follows close behind the people rather than chase the calves like she used to.

We are finished feading for the day. Don't the cows look happy?

Clay was glad he found his calf that was missing. It was just born two days ago.

You know it is true love when you see each other in such hot outfits and the wedding is still on.

Vacation weather

2008-12-31T16:36:00.000-08:00

Nothing like the mild, tropical climate in La Grande Oregon! This is AFTER most of the snow has melted. Here is where a drift was on foothill road...

A house on foothill road with a few drifts taller than their roof....

And the trucks lined up on the night when the road was closed.

Let it snow...and snow...and snow...

2008-12-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Well, today is the big Waite family party. Unfortunately, there is a blizzard outside! The road is closed between Baker and La Grande, so none of the family members from that direction will be able to come. I'm not even sure we will make it as there are huge drifts in the driveway! Oh well, we hope people will be able to come safely! These pictures just don't do it justice. Wish you could feel how cold, windy, and snowy it is out there (mostly for the Las Vegas family:).

Anyone for trying a new recipe???

2008-12-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

Since it was blizzarding outside, my trip to Boise to see "Lord of the Dance" was cancelled. So, I certainly didn'
t want to go anywhere when it was blizzarding outside, the temperature was 3 degrees, and the wind about 30 mph. So that gave me that "lazy day" feeling. Most of you know I don't really do recipes, but I decided to try something different for dinner. Glancing through my "Good Housekeeping" magazine, the title , "Easy 1-Dish Dinners" caught my eye. I decided right then and there I was going to try a new "easy Dinner", even if it meant following a recipe. So, here goes:

Observation #1: My choices are Beef Carbonnade, Veal Shoulder Chops, Osso Buco Style;Chinese Red-Cooked Pork Shoulder;Italian Califlower Curry Stew; and Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo

I don't know about you, but some of those titles make my meal sound not easy, and what the heck is Osso Buco?? Who eats veal now days, except the rich and famous, since, if you can even find it, it costs about $12.99 a pound! Carbonnade sounds scarey, and shrimp is not on my list of things to eat. Narrowing it down further:

Obserfation #2: Beef Carbonnade calls for dark beer--The Osso Buco, besides calling for veal, also calls for dry white wine, so it's definitely out! --As for the Red-Cooked Pork Shoulder, it calls for dry sherry, rice vinegar, fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced into rounds, 2 strips of fresh orange peel 1 stick of cinnamon and 1 whole star anise, among other things. Let's try the Italian Califlower Curry Stew: hmmmm--do I have these things on hand: finely chopped peeled fresh ginger, curry powder, chickpeas, loosely packed fresh cilantro ? Certainly not!

Observation #3: Is a recipe with 16 ingrediants easy? Exhausting all o f the above recipes and eliminating them, maybe I should try Lamb and Root Vegetable Tagine or Thi Chicken-Basil Soup or Peruvian Fish Soup. Let's see: I'd need for the Tagine (if I substitute beef for lamb) sweet potatoes, parsnips, dried apricots, ground coriander, Cumin and Cinnamon, 2 cups of couscous, pitted green olives and fresh cilantro--that's out! For the Thi chicken soup I'd need poblano chile, peeled fresh ginger, fish sauce, fresh basil leaves, rice noodles and fresh lime. I'll rush right to my pantry and see which of those I can find. Nope, better try the Peruvian Fish soup. I'll need 1 seranno chili, cumin, clam juice, 2 limes, scallops, squid with bodies sliced crosswise into 1/4 in rings and tenacles cut into pieces if large, and fresh cilantro. Don't even have to go to the pantry on this one!

Obvervation: # 4: Who cooks these "easy recipes"? The cook at the whitehouse? Oprah's personal chef? Certainly not me! How about the young mom with young kids? Or the working mom? Or the mom with 4 kids and 2 part-time jobs? How about the retired old ladies?

Observation #5: How many ways are there to put a teaspoon of garlic in a recipe: chopped, ground, diced, crushed with a press, thinly sliced, or this one--crushed with the side of a chef's knife? I wonder if that last one tastes different than the one crushed with a press?

Observation #6: I could try the Ropa Viueja or the chicken Bouillabaisse-Style that calls for a bulb of fennel, white wine and saffron threads--but why would I want to? This old lady who hates recipes is going to stick to her own version of "Quick and Easy" and go read a good book!

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING, you should be ashamed of yourself!

Oh, yes, I tried some "never fail mint cookies" and guess what ? They failed!

5 Things About Him Tag

2008-11-14T17:22:00.000-08:00

5 Things he loves

The Gospel and all associated with it
His family (wife, 5 children, 5 daughter or son-in laws, 8 grandkids)
His newspaper
His TV
His cows

5 Things on His To Do List

Go on a Mission
Make it through another winter feeding the cows in blizzards
Endure to the end with his church calling as YM secretary
Never miss going home teaching on the 1st Tuesday of every month
Always be prepared

5 foods he enjoys

Seafood
Potatoes of any kind, fixed any way
Green Salad or Coleslaw
Homemade Soup of any kind
Winter Squash

5 things you might not know about him

He has written a math textbook
He was in the Navy as a NavCad but got medically discharged because of hayfever
He was almost killed twice, but was saved by "a miracle"
He won an award for outstanding achievement in mathematics
He played the alto sax in several dance bands in h igh school and college

5 places he's lived

La Grande, OR
Pendleton, OR
Kalamazoo, Mighigan
Logan, Utah
Missoula, Montana

5 quirkky things about him

He was "Mr Computers" when they first came out--taught computer classes, helped other teachers learn to use them, was a master programmer, etc. But now, he can't even get on a website without panicking!

He can hardly walk to the bathroom from his bed in bare feet--he has to have socks and shoes on AT ALL TIMES

He is Mr Laundry--and is very particular about how it must be done. He does it all at our house, and DON'T TOUCH HIS LAUNDRY.

This I love about him--He NEVER leaves a mess behind! He cleans up after himself, never leaves his clothes anyplace but where they belong--not even a sock on the floor EVER!

He hates to talk on the phone and would rather drive 50 miles to talk to someone to avoid a call!

5 people to tag

Debbie
Heather
Xiechelle
Audra
Brooke

Redneck Grandma

2008-11-08T19:24:00.000-08:00

YOU'RE A REDNECK IF . . .

You sit in a cold gymnasium for 7 hours just to watch you grandson, Trey, play 2 40-minute basketball games

You have to sit there because you were told they would play at 9 and they didn't play until 12:30

You don't leave because they might change their minds and play early!!

Then, after the 12:30 game you don't leave because they play again at 3:oo!

You finally get done at 4:00, so proud of yourself that you have 16 really good pictures for Trey's scrapbook!

You get home and discover, after seaching every crevice in the car, every pocket, throughout your purse, under everything that you have LOST YOUR CAMERA!! Don't expect another picture blog anytime soon :(

More Round-up Pictures

2008-10-20T20:44:00.001-07:00

Kris, Kres, and Lola couldn't resist taking a little rest in the sunshine!
Love Conquers All! Brian talked Kris into taking her first ride ever on the ATV (and we've had them for 4 years now!)
Cute picture of Rob and Jodi taken by Brian, who was in a tree stand.
Another interesting picture from the tree stand!
Grandpa and his little helper count the cows!

Another year--another round-up

2008-10-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday, the family gathered to move the cows from the summer range to the winter range. We had lots of help--Rob's family, Ky, Clay and Kres, Krissy and Brian, Reed and Debbie, and Joe Dial. The weather was beautiful, and Kres enjoyed a slow ride in the basket of the 4-wheeler!
Trey and Kres enjoyed playing and exploring. They really bonded!
Bugs under rocks wasn't Kres' idea of fun. After finding the first bug under a big rock, Kres wouldn't touch another rock all day!
There they are--all gathered safely in the corral--except for 3 calves which we never did find!
Kres wouldn't rest until grandpa took him into the pen with the cows! Here comes another good helper in a couple of years!

I've been tagged

2008-10-17T18:34:00.000-07:00

La Grande High School
Class of '58

Did you date someone from high school? Actually, I dated several guys in HS, and ended up marrying one of them. Ron and I started dateing our Jr. Year--he asked me out on a dare! that'll teach him!

What Kind of Car did you drive? Well, I mostly drove my dad's tail-finned Dodge. But I also drove my friends Ford convertable occasionally In those days, kids didn't have their own cars! And, usually, a family only had one car.

What was your most embarrassing moment in High School? Can't remember one!

Were you a party animal? Uh, NOOOO

Were you considered a flirt? Definitely a big NO

Were you in band, orchestra or choir? I was in band, pep band and orchestra
I began playing the clarinet in 3rd grade and was first chair, solo clarinetist grades 10-12 and in college.

Were you a nerd? No

Were you on varsity teams? Girls didn't play sports then, and if they would have, I would not have been an athlete!

did you ever get suspended or expelled? No, but I came close. Ron and I skipped school and got caught. My punishment was I had to wash the walls in the hallway. Ron's punishment was--he had to watch me! In those days, girls were always the reason boys got into trouble, no matter what the trouble was!

Can you sing the fight song? Never could because I was always playing it!

Who were your favorite teachers? Mr Scott, the band teacher.

Where did you sit during lunch? At our kitchen table--we always went home for lunch!

School Mascot? La Grande Tigers!

Did y ou go to homecoming? With who? Yes--George Council

If You could go back and do it all oer again, would y ou ? Yes, I enjoyed high school

Where did you go Sr Skip day? No such thing!

Were you in any clubs? Oh my, yes--Band, pep band, orchestra, National Honor Society, Quill and Scroll, Spanish Club, Ski Club, Yearbook

gained weight since high school? Yes, but not much

Who was your prom date? Ron Waite

What cliques were you in ? the Mormon clique, although I wasn't one!

I can't tag anyone because everyone who reads my blog has already been tagged!

Exciting News

2008-10-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

I was excited for the weekend to come, because Krissy hasn't been home since school started--not even for her birthday (which she shares with Ron!) One of the reasons she hasn't been home has a name--Brian Terry, and he came with her. What a super nice guy he is! And, we were glad he came with her.
Of course, we went up to Marley Creek just to relax and look for animals. Kris and Brian took a walk, and Lola was a little jealous!
When they returned from the walk, they had a happy announcement--At the top of the hill, at the end of the road, Brian asked Krissy to marry him--and she said yes!
We are very happy for him, and think he is a good match for her, and she is a good match for him.
The ring is beautiful, and very sparkly! We are glad we got a chance to meet Brian, and welcome him into our family. Now, when? you may ask--they haven't set a date, but "in the spring" was as close as we could get! CONGRATULATIONS BRIAN TERRY AND KRISTEL WAITE!!

TOO GOOD TO PASS UP

2008-10-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

Ky's little guy, Kresimir, loves the horses and intended to feed them all by himself!
Would you believe it? He really can play the organ!
Chilren learn by example--good thing to always remember!!
This is a feat very few people have accomplished! And, one of my favorite things to do!
I had to toss in a picture of Krissy and her beautiful flowers!
Now, remember, the last thing I am saying should have been the first!

I was getting ready to throw my old camera away, when it occurred to me to take the chip out. I took it to WM and had the pictures put on a CD, and this is some of what I found. . .

Cat Food and Critters

2008-09-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

First off, my camera or computer won't download my pictures again, so sorry-=I had pictures for this blog that were really cute!

Well--last month I spent over $100 on cat food and we have two fairly small cats! So, you might ask, "why do they eat so much?" I can tell you that if I only fed 2 cats, I could get by on about $24 a month. But, living somewhat in the country, I feed cats and an assorment of critters. We have fed in the garage, but we have about 6 stray cats on our property and so I started feeding them in the mud room--leaving the door open during the day so they can eat. Our traditional critters have been magpies, racoons, mice and stray cats.

Anyway, we came home from the 480 2 nights ago right after it turned dark, and went in through the mud room. Unknown to us, we both walked right by a new critter. Lola was acting strangely, but being tired, I dragged her into the house. Lola and I went in the house and Ron came in last. I heard him yell for me to come see, and a critter was just exiting the mud room. I missed it. So, I went into the house and a few minutes later the phone rang--it was Ron. He said, "Get your camera and look out the window and try to get a picture of the new critter eating the cat food." So, I grabbed my camera, looked out and saw a SKUNK in the mudroom. I opened the door a crack and stuck my arm out only far enough to click the camera. It captured the tail in the picture. Ron started to come out of the office, thinking it would run, but it didn't. Hunter was sitting 4 feet away--by the chair, watching it eat. Again, I opened the door a crack to try to get another picture. Lola was in a tizzy and litterally pushed me out of the way and dashed out the door into the mudroom! So, scene: Running out of the mudroom was a skunk, followed closely by 2 cats, followed closely by LOLA! I thought I would never see Lola again as she raced into the dark night in hot persuit of a skunk! And, I feared, if I did see her she would likely smell very bad!
but, she did come back about 10 minutes later, feeling very proud of herself indeed! And, lucky for her and the rest of us, she didn't get sprayed!
The next morning, Ron said he laid awake about 2 hours thinking of what could have happened if the skunk would have sprayed in the mudroom--us, the cats, or Lola. Or, Lola the mighty chaser, or the cats in the garage! All kinds of interesting possibilities there! So, now we close the mudroom door as soon as it starts to get dark and hope we don't see that skunk again! But--everytime we have to be gone, we feed the cats (and the critters ) in the garage! We'll hope for the best! Ahhh, country living!

All is Safely Gathered in, er the winter storms begin

2008-09-25T19:40:00.001-07:00

Well--These pictures are really out of order--still haven't figured that out! Anyway, A couple of weeks ago (when I was younger), in a weak moment I bought 2 boxes of pears for canning! So, the day finally came when I was exhausted from walking 5km the previous Saturday! Lola (who I am babysitting for Krissy) even thought I was crazy!
I started early in the day, but by dinner time (actually way after dinner time) Lola is beginning to wonder if anyone is getting any dinner!

Actually, Ron was wondering the same thing!

. . .It just so happened that in the beginning Ron pealed several bowls of pears, but after the first 7 quarts he gave up and headed for a less messy task. If he wanted dinner on time, he just should have pealed a few more pears!

The result of the hard work was 24 quarts of pears! Here's part of them. . .+

Just when I was finishing, Shannon appeared on the doorstep with a box of apples for me--good for cooking, canning, freezing, but not real tasty for eating! Now, I have to ask myself. . .do I want to cook, can or freeze this hugh box of apples, Well, maybe. . .on the other hand those horses at the cemetary are looking mighty hungry lately!

Notice in the background, Lola's still wondering if I'm crazy!

I guess it was all worth it--ask me tomorrow after I wake up fresh!

Crater Lake

2008-09-13T08:14:00.000-07:00

Of course, the mountain in the lake is always the focus of attention, and a picture can't capture its beauty!
It was cold--40 degrees! and in August! The lake is such a pretty blue color. (actually, the lake isn't blue, it's clear, but the reflection is blue because the atmosphere filters out all the other colors! : )
Beautiful girl in a beautiful picture!
This scene speaks for itself!

When we were in Roseburg, we took Trampis and Ella to see Crater Lake. Now matter how many times you go, it is always awesome! We all enjoyed the trip. (I'll have to remember the first picture I download becomes the last on the blog!)

Exhusting but Fun!

2008-09-07T12:20:00.000-07:00

This is the very festive dessert table, it was very nice, suggested by Gwen and created by Krissy and Diane Winkle.

Ron is unveiling the famous Huckleberry ice cream to top off the dessert table. It's always a hit!

Here I am in the kitchen proping myself up after the big dinner! I was exhausted, and if dad and Krissy hadn't helped me, I never could have finished the job! Thanks Dad and Krissy. It was a big success and had LOTS of compliments.

You Have to Have a Sense of Humor

2008-09-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

Well, a short time ago (when I was younger) I agreed to cook the dinner for the class reunion., I was thinking around 100 people--that's like the familyl Christmas Dinner--ok. Well, it turns out, we are looking at 150! They want BBQ beef and a buffet.

Well, as time goes on (the event is tomorrow night), I have decided to do this you need: A vision and the ability to be flexible, the ability not to panic, and a sense of humor!

So, I started a month ago on the BBQ beef, cooking 6 reasonable sized roasts a day for 6 days! I cut them up, put BBQ sauce on them and inserted them in the freezer! Then my vision: could I visualize them cooking in my two table top cookers with rusty lids? Absolutely not. So I went to every store in town looking for table top cookers--none to be found. I looked in every store in Roseburg (where I was watching Trampis and Ella for a few days)--none to be found. So, coming home, we stopped in The Dalles for dinner and stopped at BiMart-Yes! We bought two. Now, as I began to think about it, how am I going to cook potatoes and ham? How many cookers do I need? Well, for 150 I need one more plus 2 ovens (which they have at the 4-H center). Great! Wait a minute, how many plugs do they have out there? Will that many plug ins cause a fuse to break? Well, I'll find out tomorrow! Like I said, you have to be able not to panic.

So, on to the salads--A green salad bar with things to put on the green salad. So, what does a salad bar have? Lettuce, with grated carrots and purple cabbage to start, On the side: eggs, cheese, onion, cucumbers, coleslaw, potato salad, some sort of pasta salad, broccoli. etc. So, here's the deal on salad: I ended up with all of the above--but for 150: A large coleslaw, potato salad, broccoli salad, pasta salad. Whew, almost done, then here comes dad: "Aren't you having fruit salad? Why did we buy canned pineapple if you aren't going to have a fruit salad. I think you need fruit salad with ham! So, add a fruit salad, and oh, yeah, I forgot the cottage cheese salad! Like I said, you need to be flexible.

On to breads: I hired Shannon and Cristine to each make 9 dozen rolls. Then Cristine is diagnosed with cancer and can't do the rolls! So, I decide to do a variety of breads. In my freezer, I had friendship bread and chocolate bread , so I made banana bread and pork and bean bread. Well, I snuck that one in because you have to have a sense of humor! (new recipe, delicious!). Then, I got out the cookbook and looked for recipes of French bread. So I made 8 loaves of braided french bread (new recipe and new braid technique I'd never tried before! I might as well have a little fun with this dinner while I'm trying not to panic.) The last batch, though was a little stiff--must not have got the right amount of water in it. I'll just attach a sign, "Eat this last, it's a little stiff". 68-year-olds would understand that, don't you think? And, oh, yeah, I'll pick up Shannon's bread Friday or Saturday, she didn't know!

That puts us at desserts. Two weeks ago I made, Rolo cookies (new recipe), shortbread rasberry cookies, chocolate chip-carmel cookies, and maple-vanilla drop cookies (new recipe). I forgot to mention that part of my vision is the opportunity to be adventuresome. So, yesterday, I made 3 peach/pineapple crisps. (new recipe that I made up) Then, I was going to make 3 German Chocolate and 3 Carrot cakes, but got to thinking--those are 3 layer cakes, so why don't I make two of each, but make them two layer cakes and then I'd have 3 two layer cakes instead of 2 2-layer cakes. In other words, I'd have 3 two-thirds cakes instead of 2 three-thirds cakes, which would look like I worked hard enough to have 3 cakes when I only worked hard enough for 2 cakes! Now, hows that for answering those students questions "When am I every going to use math?" so, I made a carrot cake with nuts and raisens and one without. Bu t, wait, that means I'll have on 2/3 carrot cake with raisens and nuts, and one 2/3 cake without, but what about the other 2/3 cake. Ok, half and half one layer with raisens and nuts and one without. but, when it came time to put them together and frost them, I couldn't remember which layer had what so . . . So, I'll just put up a sign. "If you don't like what's in your cake, pick it out and get on with your life" A room full of 68-year year olds would understand that, don't you think? Like I said, you have to have a sense of humor! Well, the GC cakes were another story, The first batch went fine, except one layer tore apart pretty badly when it came out of the no-stick pan (where it was stuck) The second batch got safely into the oven, looking a little runny, when I looked over and saw the 2 cubes of butter sitting on the counter. So, I snatched them out of the oven, poured them back in the mixer and added the butter, then returned them to the pans and the oven For some reason, when they cooked, they cooked really lop-sided and when they came out of the pan, two of them stuck and tore. (in my new no-stick pans) Well, with my ab ility not to panic and my vision of 3 2/3 cakes, I thought, "Ill just patch them together the best I can, and if I can't, I'll ship the pieces to Randy--he'll eat them! Thank goodness the frosting makes a good glue, and I could piece them together with the glue. The low side of one of the two layers matched with the high side of the other so that worked! That one's a little crooked, but I'll attach a sign, "If you don't like crooked cake, just eat something else," I think a room full of 68 year olds would understand that, don't you? Like I said, you need a sense of humor to do this job!

Now getting it all there.... Wish me luck. One things for sure, I'm really glad I have 2 extra refrigerators and 2 freezers! I'm exhaused and may go home after I get that food on the table! I think a room full of 68-year olds would understand that, don't you!

Oh, no, I just thought...how am I going to keep everything hot so no one will get food poisioning, or cold for that matter???? Like I said, I have the ability not to panic. . . . maybe!

You're a Redneck If. . .

2008-09-01T20:16:00.001-07:00

You're a Redneck If. . .

You Drive 35 miles into the mountains to lock two gates that are miles from anyone. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You pick up KFC for a picnic when you get there. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You set up two lawn chairs side by side across from the last gate in Billy's pasture for your picnic. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You are quickly surrounded by 15 of Billy's cows, one of which is standing 5 feet away staring at you and you just sit happily eating your KFC. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You look up and see a pickup approaching--and Lo and Behold, you know the people who are in it! (Jennie's Husband, Joe and his dad (I'll call him Ken). . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You keep right on eating while visitors stand talking surrounded by 15 cows, one of which is standing 5 feet away staring at you. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You drop a bite of coleslaw down the front of you while you are eating and visiting surrounded by 15 cows, one of which is standing 5 feet away staring at you. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

Your husband is happily chatting with Ken about who lived where and when. And you find out he is looking for the graves of his ancestors buried somewhere around here, and, yes the male Redneck knows where they are buried!. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You finish your picnic and your visit and you load up to leave still surrounded by 15 cows, one of which is standing 5 feet away staring at you. . .

You're a Redneck If. . ,.

You spend the last 45 minutes of daylight looking for the graves of ancestors of Ken who you don't know. . .

You're a Redneck If. . .

You can't figure out how to download your pictures to illustrate your story of a visit during a picnic while in the woods locking gates miles from nowhere surrounded by 15 cows, one of which is standing 5 feet away staring at you!!

More Summer Fun

2008-08-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

Grandkids love horses--life is good! Ribbon fries--4 hugh baskets and hungry kids. Taz accepts the challenge
Cynjyn, Ella and Kres stage their own dance!-
Taz bonds with Cloud. Kres and Grandpa enjoy a shaved ice while Kim looks on.

Our summer whirlwind is almost over, sad to say. Ky and Kres left after the family reunion, Kris left yesterday and Kim and her family leave today. I will take Ella half way home tomorrow when Darla meets us in The Dalles! It has been a fun summer, and it's always sad to see everyone leave. We are all exhausted! But, it was a fun whirlwind.

All the Grandkids--Minus One

2008-07-30T16:48:00.000-07:00

Kresimir enjoys the traditional ice cream social before bedtime when all the grandkids come.
Kim and Cynjyn love the ice cream, too!
Lick the bowl clean!
Trey practices basketball even between camps!
Look carefully and spot Cynjyn's friend--the alpacka at the Union County Fair

Summer Fun

2008-07-30T16:16:00.000-07:00

What's summer without baseball...Trampis warming up for a big tournament.
Of course, you can't have baseball without a snowcone! (Kresimir)
Trampis turns 13
Trampis and Taz "hit the road". Then of course, how do you cool off on a hot summer night...ice cream!! (After a soak in the hot tub of course).

Sharks....continued...

2008-07-17T11:43:00.001-07:00

Ok, I know this isn't the best picture of the shark from the shark reef but I decided I better include it. Does anyone else notice the crack in the glass? That's pretty freaky for me considering the huge shark was swimming directly over my head when I took the picture!!!

Sharks!

2008-07-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

None of the shark pictures turned out, so maybe I should say stingrays in the title? Who is courageous enough to touch the stingrays?

I did and they were very wet and slimy!

We had a good trip to Las Vegas in June (for Talon's graduation). While we were there, we got to go to the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay!

Vacation?

2008-07-07T16:59:00.000-07:00

Did we mention that it snowed EVERY DAY during Spring break? Yep, I know these are old pictures, but I'm trying to help mom figure this out so I'm just experimenting! Kris

I'm Back??

2008-07-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas!!!

2007-12-16T21:48:00.000-08:00

I always enjoy my Christmas decorations. This year has been extra special because I finally got a Christmas Village that I've always wanted!

Merry Christmas to all!!!

Simply Awesome!

2007-10-07T11:07:00.000-07:00

My Fairy Fantasy Bathroom is finished thanks to Kris, Ky and Ella!
Start with butterflies and polka dots...
add a few little adorable fairies...

and of course the queen fairy, Isabella...

and a cute new cabinet for display.

You get a Wonderful World of Fantasy and Fun!

2007-09-07T12:43:00.000-07:00

We went up for Krissy to put salt out at the 480. She had to carry 50# of salt because dad couldn't lift it. Afterward we had a picnic and then sat and watched a hugh herd of elk right on the corner of McIntyre road--fascinating!

Train Ride

2007-09-02T10:48:00.000-07:00

We left the Minam Station at 5:pm Sept 1 and returned at 8:45. We ran a litte late because of cows on the tracks, a funny noise the engineer didn't like, and a change in direction. It was a fun trip with a dinner consisting of hourdvours and fondue--but it was a fun dinner. We only saw 4 deer! The engineer and the conductor saw a black bear! There was no moon, so it was pitch dark far about 1/2 hour coming home. (It was booked as a "moonlight" trip--beautiful with the full moon on the water! But no moon! We did enjoy it, though, and thank Krissy for the neat Christmas present!

Summer at Grandma-=

2007-08-11T08:14:00.001-07:00

update at last

2007-08-07T09:28:00.001-07:00

It's always fun to have my little cooks help!

Taz loved the Snickerdoodles I made earlier

and wanted to make some. So, they loved

the "roll them in sugar part!"

Happy Birthday Kres! Big one year old!

Oh No! Grandma's a blogger!

2007-07-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't know what to say and I don't know how to do pictures, so this could be the most boring blog ever! i am in Las Vegas at Kim and Garry's house with 8 grandkids and 6 adults. It's like feeding An army at dinner time! But, the swimming pool is nice! More later