I have been reminded a lot lately, mostly through feelings, how wonderfully blessed I am. One great blessing is living in Phoenix and experiencing this great Spring with warm weather and cool evenings. It is always great to be able to jump in the pool in April.
A few weeks ago I took a day off of work to spend the kids' Spring Break on a trip to New Mexico. Tevia's parents came with us and we went first to the Petrified Wood national forest. I had never been and was actually quite amazed and enjoyed our time there. We then headed off to New Mexico. One of my favorite parts was spending time at El Rancho Hotel where we had a fabulous dinner and decided we definitely have to stay there some time. The other part that I loved was going to El Morro and seeing inscription rock. I am not one to usually reflect on history, but reading some of the engravings of people who had passed by hundreds of years ago made me think what it would have been like all those years ago. It was very cool to read about the people and see this natural water source that people used to survive as they traveled the region. Though it was very cold and windy, this was a very cool stop.
Last night we spent time with some friends who are going to New Zealand next month to live. They have wanted to do this for some time and sold their house and everything and are going down to experience this adventure and give their kids a new perspective. I was impressed, as I always have been, by their down-to-earth attitude and their ability to minimize the allure of acquiring "things" and look to build memories and experiences. I know that our adventure to Hong Kong was amazing and I know they will love it for however long they stay. I would love to have such an opportunity again.
As the days get longer and warmer I look forward to summer and spending time with Tevia and the boys and enjoying the Arizona heat.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Monday, April 08, 2013
Fav GC talks anyone?
I loved how the Apostles and GA's came at some very current problems clearly and directly. They deliver their talks powerfully and spiritually, instead of lecturing and judging.
I was more inspired on Sunday than Saturday. I was listening for some personal stuff. I have a few issues I am dealing with. I got one clear answer. Hurray for inspiration and revelation!
I used to do more of listening and thinking, "that talk is a good one for ____" (insert any name I may think needed that particular talk) I am learning that they are all applicable to me.
I have started rating the talks so I can go back and read the ones I want to. I am using a 5 * system.
The talks that made my 5 ***** list:
Elder Bednar- "as we pursue virtue, the Holy Ghost will be our guide" and, "every appetite may be overcome"
President Uchdorf- the Hope of Christ's light when I am feeling alone, unloved, and lost, and that we will make mistakes and falter, and that is okay.
Elder Hales- the marriage talk! I loved it!
Elder Holland- " Help thou mine unbelief" I have always loved that line, and he helped me to feel okay about having less faith than I want, and what to do. This was my favorite! "Don't lead with our doubt" and "we are finite vessels".
I noted to reread Enriqu Falabella's talk and Erich Kopische's talk. I missed some words on both and I like how the latter GA said that the feeling of being accepted is a basic human need. I can't believe I am still working on that at my ancient age.
Todd Christofferson had one line that I really needed to help me find peace with some very personal worries about my dad. I am thankful for that.
I am grateful President Packer got to give his talk, and I plan on sending his poem on aging to my mother.
I thought of Jacob during the fire story, and I loved that President Monson seemed more clear and alert and he did a great job! He said obedience is essential to our salvation, and that we will be tried and tested.
I also loved that Elder Oaks did an excellent job of covering the topic of people questioning what Mormons believe about Christ, and using only the 4 Gospels. I will use that talk often.
Dad had emailed Carol and invited her to listen to some of the talks, now that we know she has BYU TV. I am hoping she did. I found out some things about her that I never knew. Remind me to tell any of you who want to know when I am there. She is a very religious person.
I was more inspired on Sunday than Saturday. I was listening for some personal stuff. I have a few issues I am dealing with. I got one clear answer. Hurray for inspiration and revelation!
I used to do more of listening and thinking, "that talk is a good one for ____" (insert any name I may think needed that particular talk) I am learning that they are all applicable to me.
I have started rating the talks so I can go back and read the ones I want to. I am using a 5 * system.
The talks that made my 5 ***** list:
Elder Bednar- "as we pursue virtue, the Holy Ghost will be our guide" and, "every appetite may be overcome"
President Uchdorf- the Hope of Christ's light when I am feeling alone, unloved, and lost, and that we will make mistakes and falter, and that is okay.
Elder Hales- the marriage talk! I loved it!
Elder Holland- " Help thou mine unbelief" I have always loved that line, and he helped me to feel okay about having less faith than I want, and what to do. This was my favorite! "Don't lead with our doubt" and "we are finite vessels".
I noted to reread Enriqu Falabella's talk and Erich Kopische's talk. I missed some words on both and I like how the latter GA said that the feeling of being accepted is a basic human need. I can't believe I am still working on that at my ancient age.
Todd Christofferson had one line that I really needed to help me find peace with some very personal worries about my dad. I am thankful for that.
I am grateful President Packer got to give his talk, and I plan on sending his poem on aging to my mother.
I thought of Jacob during the fire story, and I loved that President Monson seemed more clear and alert and he did a great job! He said obedience is essential to our salvation, and that we will be tried and tested.
I also loved that Elder Oaks did an excellent job of covering the topic of people questioning what Mormons believe about Christ, and using only the 4 Gospels. I will use that talk often.
Dad had emailed Carol and invited her to listen to some of the talks, now that we know she has BYU TV. I am hoping she did. I found out some things about her that I never knew. Remind me to tell any of you who want to know when I am there. She is a very religious person.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Monday, February 11, 2013
Grown up kids
The morning after the blizzard, I went downstairs to see which car dad had decided to drive to West Point for his Sunday meetings. He left at 6:30 am. I was still cozy in bed.
As I peeked out of the door into the cold garage, I noticed my hand was on all the little lines and dashes we had drawn on the side of the door, Tom, 41", Jacob, 48', etc.
I actually got teary. All four of those little ones are grown ups, full-blown adults.
What happened and when?
As I watch the grandchildren now change and grow so fast, I realize how quickly life passes.
It seems just a short time ago when Jacob was begging me to go outside, like Lexi does to Kathy, and when Bret was his kids ages, and busy with scouts and school and friends, and Kathy was dancing all over the house and I was hoping she'd get hair someday. And Tommy was running down the field playing soccer and scoring so much they had to take him out.
I love all the wonderful memories we have had with all of you kids.
So enjoy all these stages your kids are going through, whether the not sleeping through the night, to the Big 'O" preteen stage, to pre-K, etc.
It seemed hard to me then, but as I reflect back, it seemed so sweet, and not so hard at all.
As I peeked out of the door into the cold garage, I noticed my hand was on all the little lines and dashes we had drawn on the side of the door, Tom, 41", Jacob, 48', etc.
I actually got teary. All four of those little ones are grown ups, full-blown adults.
What happened and when?
As I watch the grandchildren now change and grow so fast, I realize how quickly life passes.
It seems just a short time ago when Jacob was begging me to go outside, like Lexi does to Kathy, and when Bret was his kids ages, and busy with scouts and school and friends, and Kathy was dancing all over the house and I was hoping she'd get hair someday. And Tommy was running down the field playing soccer and scoring so much they had to take him out.
I love all the wonderful memories we have had with all of you kids.
So enjoy all these stages your kids are going through, whether the not sleeping through the night, to the Big 'O" preteen stage, to pre-K, etc.
It seemed hard to me then, but as I reflect back, it seemed so sweet, and not so hard at all.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Another Thursday night success and blessing!
The Story of Mary Dippold
Thursday night is my usual genealogy night. Don is away at Stake meetings until late, so
I always wait up for him, even if it is until midnight. Doing genealogy work keeps me awake enough to
make it up that long.
I am continually praying for help with my research. I have received divine help before.
I often pray on Wednesday nights, knowing I will get a
chance to work on our family on
Thursdays. Many times I ask what line to
work on. Last week I was blessed with
a dream about Velma, and that Thursday
night, I found that someone else has been working on her line, and it is the
first line I have been able to get back to the 1700’s!
Last night, I had a
dream, and all I remembered when I awoke was something about there are a lot of
Mary’s, but Mary Dippold is the important one, (and I add here , that I think
it was kind of like, the main one to focus on, more like a feeling than a
logical thought).
I was excited, but scared.
I think I had heard the name Dippold before someone in my research, but
not sure where exactly. I couldn’t
believe my brain would just come up with a name like that, so I was hoping it
was divine inspiration, and I couldn’t wait to do my genealogy tonight.
As soon as Don left, I got out all my notes and folders.( I
had sneaked a few minutes during the day
to put her name in Family Search, so curious as to if it would come up, and
it did!
It came up with her mother’s name Krisch, and her father’s name
Helmrich. I know where Krisch is in our line, and I have heard the Helmrich
names.)
In my notes I found that I had 4 different Mary’s, some
Helmrichs, and there were drawings and charts of me trying to make sense out of
who was who, and how they were related.
(Mary Rumm, Mary Kirsch, another Mary Krisch, a Mary Helmrich, and a Mary
Dippold!)
I went online and found all the sources I could find:
censuses, death and birth records, etc.
I then spent about an hour, piecing it all together by dates
and sorting, and using visual charts to put each Mary in the right generation.
Success! Mary Dippold is the niece of Florian Pylick and his
wife, Josephine Krish. (Florian is my
great-grandfather’s brother).
I entered all the information, and was a bit worried it
wouldn’t let me do her work because sometimes it asks pretty specific questions. I t allowed me to! If I get lucky, we will do it this Saturday
when we go to the Manhattan temple.
Truly amazing! I
could have never come up with that name myself. I had tried to fit the
Helmrichs into my line before. I am guessing she really wants her work
done! I am excited to do it!
I forgot to add, last night it was the coldest night of the
year so far, going to be about 5 degrees when I go out to teach Institute at
the church.
I was so tempted to just wear pants. I don’t think it is all that terrible to, but
I had asked the Regional Coordinator over Institute and Seminary when I was
first called, and he asked me to please wear a dress or skirt.
I rationalized over and over right up until it was time to
go, and I finally decided to just be obedient, suck it up, and wear a skirt
with boots.
I wonder if sometimes we get extra blessings when we show exact
obedience like that?
Another PS- I had asked my sister last week if she thought
we should consider doing the work for Doris in March. She said we would have to ask Sam and Vince,
even though she was close to us and is
my mom’s sister. Early this morning,
like at 5:30 am, I was unable to sleep from the excitement of the Mary Dippold
dream, and was pondering things. Doris
came to mind, and I was kind of wondering if I should write Sam and Vince, and
the room all of a sudden got light, seriously!
I then realized my phone just came on and went bright, with no phone call or message or text at all. J A sign? A
coincidence? In general I am not one who
goes for physical ‘signs’, so I think it is a stretch… but…. Who knows? What do you think?
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Good news in genealogy!
Now that the holidays are over, I finally have more time to get back into researching my family.
I also like to think that dad and his sister Sharon are now up there helping.
So after an all day Thursday blitz, I caught up with some organizational issues, and was ready to decide which line to delve into again. I prayed about it.
I had 2 dreams in a row about my grandpa's wife, Velma.
Now, I am not sure that these were a direct answer to my prayer. I thought about it this morning, and decided- even if it is not, it won't hurt to start there.
Side note: Velma was a very religious lady. I think Methodist. But she was the reason my grandfather stopped drinking. He never drank again after he married her. She told me she had Mormon's in her ancestry. She also gave me a typed, detailed history of her father's family before she died.
Back to my story- This morning I searched for her mother's family on the new Family Tree that comes up in NewFamilySearch. If you haven't seen it, check it out. It is easier to manipulate between people. I like it much better!
And, there it is! Thanks to technology, family search, and some individuals, her mother's line of Hanning is now all the way back to 1730! And the work is being done in temple in Dallas and LA.
Success!
I had noted on my notes that I couldn't go back farther because than I had because the dates were past the ones on Family Search, but, somehow there are records from 1820 census on there.
Another one of her lines is being done by someone in Hawaii!
So cool!
I am happy for her this morning. For her righteousness, her good example, and her willingness to keep families together.
I also like to think that dad and his sister Sharon are now up there helping.
So after an all day Thursday blitz, I caught up with some organizational issues, and was ready to decide which line to delve into again. I prayed about it.
I had 2 dreams in a row about my grandpa's wife, Velma.
Now, I am not sure that these were a direct answer to my prayer. I thought about it this morning, and decided- even if it is not, it won't hurt to start there.
Side note: Velma was a very religious lady. I think Methodist. But she was the reason my grandfather stopped drinking. He never drank again after he married her. She told me she had Mormon's in her ancestry. She also gave me a typed, detailed history of her father's family before she died.
Back to my story- This morning I searched for her mother's family on the new Family Tree that comes up in NewFamilySearch. If you haven't seen it, check it out. It is easier to manipulate between people. I like it much better!
And, there it is! Thanks to technology, family search, and some individuals, her mother's line of Hanning is now all the way back to 1730! And the work is being done in temple in Dallas and LA.
Success!
I had noted on my notes that I couldn't go back farther because than I had because the dates were past the ones on Family Search, but, somehow there are records from 1820 census on there.
Another one of her lines is being done by someone in Hawaii!
So cool!
I am happy for her this morning. For her righteousness, her good example, and her willingness to keep families together.
Thursday, January 03, 2013
Goodbye 2012
As mentioned in my favorites post, 2012 wasn't awesome. In fact, there were times I downright did not like it. As I look back I find that a lot of that was just my attitude; for the first time I can remember I let negativity affect my life. It seemed more like I just "made it through" the year. Looking back, it is ridiculous to have felt this way. In reality, except for one part of my life, 2012 was great. Health: fantastic. Family: great. Trips/Vacations: Awesome. But I let a frustrating job year get in the way of real life. I have never done this before. I pride myself on my optimism and view of life. I often tell people - and did in 2012 - that your job doesn't matter and that other things are more important. And I still believed that last year, but I still let stress and frustration get the best of me. It was the first year in a long time that I didn't feel everyone thought I was the best (from a career perspective). I've always been that high-flyer that overachieved and everyone loved. With my new job, and working alone from home, I didn't get that constant feedback. Add that to a very stressful year where the company struggled a little and it was my job to clean up the mess (that I didn't create) and it became the perfect storm to get me down. I began to focus on myself. My prayers, my fasts, my thoughts were all turned inward. I wanted change. I wanted to be who I was in 2011. I was losing myself.
There were several times that I almost got out of the funk. I got great advice from books and friends. But it seemed to only last temporarily. In the end I think I was just looking to get away. And when that didn't happen immediately, I was crushed. And though I still loved all the things that really bring me happiness (wife, kids, family, basketball, Phoenix weather, hiking, reading...) those things became a secondary part of my life. My self-focus took me away from my happiness. All of us go through stress. All of us have sucky months or years. But I realized that even a very positive person like myself can lose perspective. Slowly at the end of the year I began to see this. I slowly focused on those around me and not myself. I focused on gratitude for what I have and not what I didn't have. Hopefully I am through this phase for the most part. It is sad to me that I look back on 2012 and for the most part don't visualize the many blessings I have. I see what I wanted and didn't get. I see selfishness and frustration for being in a situation that was uncomfortable. I see ingratitude. I was humbled. And that did lead me to God. This brought some great moments in the year, too, and helped establish broken habits. But once again, my turn towards God was out of selfishness.
For 2013 I want to be who I really am. That guy that lives for his kids and wife. Who loves getting up at 5 AM to play basketball. Who looks forward to long hikes in 100 degree weather. Who loves the fact that he has family just minutes away. Who is thrilled that he still has hair and his laser eyes still work. Who loves living so close to a park, a church and a school. Who loves playing games. Who tries to think of others and serve those around him. I want him back. And I'm determined to get him back. So for those around me in 2012, I apologize for being a downer. I'm sorry if I couldn't bring that smile like I used to. I entered 2012 with a negative attitude. It had a rough start (from a job perspective) and I never let that go.
Here's to a wonderful year full of laughter and joy. Every day is a blessing and I know this. Let's live more in the present.
There were several times that I almost got out of the funk. I got great advice from books and friends. But it seemed to only last temporarily. In the end I think I was just looking to get away. And when that didn't happen immediately, I was crushed. And though I still loved all the things that really bring me happiness (wife, kids, family, basketball, Phoenix weather, hiking, reading...) those things became a secondary part of my life. My self-focus took me away from my happiness. All of us go through stress. All of us have sucky months or years. But I realized that even a very positive person like myself can lose perspective. Slowly at the end of the year I began to see this. I slowly focused on those around me and not myself. I focused on gratitude for what I have and not what I didn't have. Hopefully I am through this phase for the most part. It is sad to me that I look back on 2012 and for the most part don't visualize the many blessings I have. I see what I wanted and didn't get. I see selfishness and frustration for being in a situation that was uncomfortable. I see ingratitude. I was humbled. And that did lead me to God. This brought some great moments in the year, too, and helped establish broken habits. But once again, my turn towards God was out of selfishness.
For 2013 I want to be who I really am. That guy that lives for his kids and wife. Who loves getting up at 5 AM to play basketball. Who looks forward to long hikes in 100 degree weather. Who loves the fact that he has family just minutes away. Who is thrilled that he still has hair and his laser eyes still work. Who loves living so close to a park, a church and a school. Who loves playing games. Who tries to think of others and serve those around him. I want him back. And I'm determined to get him back. So for those around me in 2012, I apologize for being a downer. I'm sorry if I couldn't bring that smile like I used to. I entered 2012 with a negative attitude. It had a rough start (from a job perspective) and I never let that go.
Here's to a wonderful year full of laughter and joy. Every day is a blessing and I know this. Let's live more in the present.
Monday, December 31, 2012
2012 Favorites
2012 will not go down as one of my favorite years. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't awesome (for me), either. One of my goals for 2013 is to be more positive to make the year better. But I did have some things I liked in 2012 and thought I would list them. Feel free to list your favorites in the comments or on your own post.
Favorite Songs:
#1 Some Nights - Fun.
We Are Young - Fun.
Radioactive - Imagine Dragons
It's Time - Imagine Dragons
Call Me Maybe - Carly Rae Jepsen
Little Talks - Of Monsters and Men
Ai Te Pego - Michel Telo
Everybody Talks - Neon Trees
Lights - Ellie Golding
Favorite Movies:
#1 The Avengers
Moonrise Kingdom
Favorite Meals:
Date with Tevia at Citizen Public House
Eathai Busaba in London
Any meal with Tevia's new brussel sprouts recipe
Favorite Sports Moments:
The Olympics
USA Women's Gymnastics team winning Gold
Any Michael Phelps race
BYU winning bowl game
Favorite Book:
Beyonders 2: Seeds of Rebellion - Brandon Mull
Favorite Songs:
#1 Some Nights - Fun.
We Are Young - Fun.
Radioactive - Imagine Dragons
It's Time - Imagine Dragons
Call Me Maybe - Carly Rae Jepsen
Little Talks - Of Monsters and Men
Ai Te Pego - Michel Telo
Everybody Talks - Neon Trees
Lights - Ellie Golding
Favorite Movies:
#1 The Avengers
Moonrise Kingdom
Favorite Meals:
Date with Tevia at Citizen Public House
Eathai Busaba in London
Any meal with Tevia's new brussel sprouts recipe
Favorite Sports Moments:
The Olympics
USA Women's Gymnastics team winning Gold
Any Michael Phelps race
BYU winning bowl game
Favorite Book:
Beyonders 2: Seeds of Rebellion - Brandon Mull
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Sunday, December 02, 2012
Help me I beg of you
Two wall babies will be born
Tho a little Cox will be in my belly
Jimmy will go to the academy in Arizona so we can stay!
Mom and Dad won't move
Someone will have a near death experience at lake powell
Jimmy and I will finally give church talks in our new ward
Jake will get a new kind of job
Tevia will start taking professional pics
Hazel will start a dance or gymnastics class
We will finally go to Mexico!
And the giants will win the super bowl!!!!
Hey, so I was pretty dang close in all of mine with the exception of a few.
Why am I up at 2? Because my child is crying and has been for an literally an hour. Suggestions for taming this wild beast would be well received. (More so for not sitting still in any location ever)... the night thing, I actually think she is starting to have some bad dreams and will just take a mean mom to be strong for a couple nights.
She has been waking up now in the middle of the night for a week now. The first night I went an hour but Jimmy caved. I did not care as much because I have felt like death for the past week. Which is why I have then allowed her to have a bottle in bed with us for 20 minutes the last couple nights. Now I have obviously started a terrible habit which disables me to sleep as well as her.
Anyway, she goes down fine and wakes up frantic. I refuse to give in anymore at this point. But It has now been over an hour.
Maybe she is having night mares that I will kill her. Sometimes I think I just might. =)
As far as the sitting still and crying shamelessly when she has to and/or is overtired, like I said. Wouldn't mind the advice.
An hour and 20 minutes. Still going... quite strong. Not sure what I produced
..... not sure why my writing looks like this.
Tho a little Cox will be in my belly
Jimmy will go to the academy in Arizona so we can stay!
Mom and Dad won't move
Someone will have a near death experience at lake powell
Jimmy and I will finally give church talks in our new ward
Jake will get a new kind of job
Tevia will start taking professional pics
Hazel will start a dance or gymnastics class
We will finally go to Mexico!
And the giants will win the super bowl!!!!
Hey, so I was pretty dang close in all of mine with the exception of a few.
Why am I up at 2? Because my child is crying and has been for an literally an hour. Suggestions for taming this wild beast would be well received. (More so for not sitting still in any location ever)... the night thing, I actually think she is starting to have some bad dreams and will just take a mean mom to be strong for a couple nights.
She has been waking up now in the middle of the night for a week now. The first night I went an hour but Jimmy caved. I did not care as much because I have felt like death for the past week. Which is why I have then allowed her to have a bottle in bed with us for 20 minutes the last couple nights. Now I have obviously started a terrible habit which disables me to sleep as well as her.
Anyway, she goes down fine and wakes up frantic. I refuse to give in anymore at this point. But It has now been over an hour.
Maybe she is having night mares that I will kill her. Sometimes I think I just might. =)
As far as the sitting still and crying shamelessly when she has to and/or is overtired, like I said. Wouldn't mind the advice.
An hour and 20 minutes. Still going... quite strong. Not sure what I produced
..... not sure why my writing looks like this.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Posterity of Gaymore and Esther Wall
As of the day before the funeral, dad and I had the older and youngest great-grandchildren: Jarek and Beckham. Seth Woodland and his wife then had a new baby that week.
Well, I scanned it, but it won't let me post it here. I think all 4 kids got a copy, but if you want one, let me know and I can email it to you.
Leslie is now trying to update it with birthdates and wedding dates. I can send you her list as well.
Well, I scanned it, but it won't let me post it here. I think all 4 kids got a copy, but if you want one, let me know and I can email it to you.
Leslie is now trying to update it with birthdates and wedding dates. I can send you her list as well.
Dad Wall's death & funeral, mom's version
The night of hurricane Sandy, we received a phone call that Gaymore had had a massive heart attack. A week later, the night of our Noreaster, we rec'd word that he had suffered a major stroke. There are two very good stories by Ralph and Leslie explaining his death in good detail if anyone wants to read them.
Dad cried most of the night, and I felt his sadness, as I still can easily recall the death of my father in March of this year. I still come to tears when I think of him, and see things that remind me of him. Dad did not think he would miss him, as he only sees him once a year, but, it is a hard thing to know that you cannot call or see him again here on earth.
We extended our already planned trip to Utah and Idaho to include the funeral and viewing plans. Patty had decided that holding the funeral quite a bit later would make it easier for more people to attend. Dad had 43 grandchildren, and over 70 great- grandchildren. I will post this list on here for reference.
It was hard on dad to know that 7/9 kids were all together at the death and planning things, and he had to wait, go to work, and live life like normal. I think he wished he could get on a plane and go there and not have to wait.
We flew out on Thursday, and stayed at Bonnie's, the first of many nights of moving around from family bedrooms to hotels in Idaho, Centerville, Provo, and Idaho, back and forth.
Both dad & I were very pleased and glad all 4 of our kids came to be with dad and show their respect to the family. Thank you all for coming, and all you spouses for letting them come.
The Fairfield Inn in Burley was suggested, and we had no idea so many others in the family were going to stay there. That was fun, but yet, overwhelming.
The hotel itself was very nice, and we had 2 adjoining rooms. This worked well for Kathy and Lexi.
We didn't get a chance to use the pool or spa, but I did get to go walking one morning on the treadmill.
The viewing was an opposite of my father's. It was more like people happy to see each other, much less reverent, and I kind of felt like Gaymore was not even the focus.
Patty ordered pizza to be served at the hotel, which dad & I skipped, and went by ourselves for a quiet peaceful unhealthy meal and yummy eggnog milkshake at the nearby McDonalds.
This is a good time to mention that Don's brother, Dean, who the family had not seen for over 10 years, came up to attend the events, and stayed at the hotel. There was great rejoicing in seeing him and stories and memories were shared between the siblings.
The next day, the funeral was at 10 am. The talks were both longer than they should have been with that many children in the audience. Ralph gave the eulogy, and Mike gave the talk, which was more like a presentation about Job. I enjoyed it, but felt it was not really funeral material or appropriate. The grandchildren and great-grandchildren each sang a song. There is a CD version of the funeral if anyone desires to have it.
We went to the graveside service, where dad gave the blessing on the grave prayer. Later, I overheard people saying they wished there had been more time spent at the cemetery. I disagreed with that. With all the kids romping through the cemetery, I was glad it was quick. It was a nice sunny day, and the view was beautiful, and I loved watching Lexi follow other kids around. I did my best to keep her from climbing on the gravestones. I felt it was disrespectful, even of little children. Some mothers agreed, some did not.
Back to the church for the typical but delicious meal of funeral potatoes, ham, rolls, and jello. Really.
Lots more chit-chat, and some photos were taken.
I have all the photos that Craig Christensen took if anyone wants them.
Then the 9 children were asked to go to Gaymore's house to go through things. This was hard, as we were all tired, and I just wanted to be with my own 4 kids by then. Dad felt it was awkward and he almost felt like we were intruding on dad's privacy. It was strange, for sure, and slow-going, as most of the siblings just didn't really want to go through things. In the end, dad did take 4 or 5 pictures he had painted, which he send home with Tommy. He thinks 3 of them are not worth keeping - since some of you have requested owning one of dad's paintings, he is asking Tom to bring them to AZ for Christmas, and you can choose one if so desired.
There were 7 guns to be dispersed of. This didn't happen that day because of many disagreements. Later, Ralph took them all to his house. On Thanksgiving, dad did get to take one of the ones he wanted.
We got back to the hotel, and I went with the kids to Arby's. Dad was really upset and tired at this point, and wanted to be alone.
Tom and Jacob went to a movie, and there is some secret story out there about Jacob losing his phone, and Tom being pulled over by the police.
Kathy had a hard time getting Lexi to sleep, so in the end, Lexi slept on the bed with her. I slept on the other queen bed in that room that night, as we were so glad Tom decided to stay overnight with us. I felt it was so cute how he was worried about leaving Holly and the new baby, and she was worried about Tom driving home alone late at night. They are so good to each other.
Sunday the kids went home, and dad and I attended the Boise temple rededication. Very nice.
Patty had tons of her kids and us over for a dinner after that neighbors and ward members provided. More talking and stories and memories. We stayed there that night after most of the people left. At one point, I marveled at the mess that many kids could make in a basement, but, with the good, responsible kids Patty raised, all was cleaned up and put away without Patty even lifting a finger or saying a word. I was amazed at her focus on her siblings and kids amidst basically chaos running around and throughout the house. Think over 30 kids of all ages from 1- 10 all in one house for hours.
Michael John, Danny, and Martin Woodland all took the time to come talk to me individually, which I loved.
I love being on the farm and the view is amazing!
We woke to no power, so, instead of staying over one more day, I was anxious to go down and see Beckham!
He is adorable, Holly looks great, and we attempted to make them dinner with fresh Idaho potatoes. That did not turn out so good.
Tuesday we visited Dean and his wife's place in Bluffdale. Cool place with another beautiful view!
Back to Tom's, Bonnie's, then Ralph's for Thanksgiving. That was fun. Leslie, Dean, Debbie, and others came. I played pool with Martin Wall and Jason Wall, and cards with Andrew and his wife Kim. Really fun and great food.
Back to Tom's on Friday, then went to a BYU basketball game on Saturday, which was my first one, and I loved it!
Loved Tom's ward on Sunday. He did a great job blessing Beckham, and Holly's brother also blessed their baby in that ward too. We had lunch at Clayton's place, and dinner at Tom's, well, actually, we werent' hungry, so we skipped dinner. I have the words to the blessing if anyone wants them.
Sunday night we stayed at the Ketcheson's. Love them and miss them.
Monday, dad had his own day to enjoy Utah. We went to the Tracy Aviary, his old house, past his old schools, lunch at Iceberg, past our old house on Millbrook, saw the Lincoln movie, and went to temple square to see the lights. Dad was in a happy mood all day!
Got to the airport 3 hours early because dad was worried about bringing the gun on the plane.
Took the redeye home, and that was not so fun. Snow, traffic, and an off the road accident made it so we didn't get home till 10 am and we had landed at 5:30 am.
The trip was long, and a strange mix of emotions, but fun to see so many family and be with my kids and Lexi. Glad to be there for the baby blessing! and glad to be home.
Dad cried most of the night, and I felt his sadness, as I still can easily recall the death of my father in March of this year. I still come to tears when I think of him, and see things that remind me of him. Dad did not think he would miss him, as he only sees him once a year, but, it is a hard thing to know that you cannot call or see him again here on earth.
We extended our already planned trip to Utah and Idaho to include the funeral and viewing plans. Patty had decided that holding the funeral quite a bit later would make it easier for more people to attend. Dad had 43 grandchildren, and over 70 great- grandchildren. I will post this list on here for reference.
It was hard on dad to know that 7/9 kids were all together at the death and planning things, and he had to wait, go to work, and live life like normal. I think he wished he could get on a plane and go there and not have to wait.
We flew out on Thursday, and stayed at Bonnie's, the first of many nights of moving around from family bedrooms to hotels in Idaho, Centerville, Provo, and Idaho, back and forth.
Both dad & I were very pleased and glad all 4 of our kids came to be with dad and show their respect to the family. Thank you all for coming, and all you spouses for letting them come.
The Fairfield Inn in Burley was suggested, and we had no idea so many others in the family were going to stay there. That was fun, but yet, overwhelming.
The hotel itself was very nice, and we had 2 adjoining rooms. This worked well for Kathy and Lexi.
We didn't get a chance to use the pool or spa, but I did get to go walking one morning on the treadmill.
The viewing was an opposite of my father's. It was more like people happy to see each other, much less reverent, and I kind of felt like Gaymore was not even the focus.
Patty ordered pizza to be served at the hotel, which dad & I skipped, and went by ourselves for a quiet peaceful unhealthy meal and yummy eggnog milkshake at the nearby McDonalds.
This is a good time to mention that Don's brother, Dean, who the family had not seen for over 10 years, came up to attend the events, and stayed at the hotel. There was great rejoicing in seeing him and stories and memories were shared between the siblings.
The next day, the funeral was at 10 am. The talks were both longer than they should have been with that many children in the audience. Ralph gave the eulogy, and Mike gave the talk, which was more like a presentation about Job. I enjoyed it, but felt it was not really funeral material or appropriate. The grandchildren and great-grandchildren each sang a song. There is a CD version of the funeral if anyone desires to have it.
We went to the graveside service, where dad gave the blessing on the grave prayer. Later, I overheard people saying they wished there had been more time spent at the cemetery. I disagreed with that. With all the kids romping through the cemetery, I was glad it was quick. It was a nice sunny day, and the view was beautiful, and I loved watching Lexi follow other kids around. I did my best to keep her from climbing on the gravestones. I felt it was disrespectful, even of little children. Some mothers agreed, some did not.
Back to the church for the typical but delicious meal of funeral potatoes, ham, rolls, and jello. Really.
Lots more chit-chat, and some photos were taken.
I have all the photos that Craig Christensen took if anyone wants them.
Then the 9 children were asked to go to Gaymore's house to go through things. This was hard, as we were all tired, and I just wanted to be with my own 4 kids by then. Dad felt it was awkward and he almost felt like we were intruding on dad's privacy. It was strange, for sure, and slow-going, as most of the siblings just didn't really want to go through things. In the end, dad did take 4 or 5 pictures he had painted, which he send home with Tommy. He thinks 3 of them are not worth keeping - since some of you have requested owning one of dad's paintings, he is asking Tom to bring them to AZ for Christmas, and you can choose one if so desired.
There were 7 guns to be dispersed of. This didn't happen that day because of many disagreements. Later, Ralph took them all to his house. On Thanksgiving, dad did get to take one of the ones he wanted.
We got back to the hotel, and I went with the kids to Arby's. Dad was really upset and tired at this point, and wanted to be alone.
Tom and Jacob went to a movie, and there is some secret story out there about Jacob losing his phone, and Tom being pulled over by the police.
Kathy had a hard time getting Lexi to sleep, so in the end, Lexi slept on the bed with her. I slept on the other queen bed in that room that night, as we were so glad Tom decided to stay overnight with us. I felt it was so cute how he was worried about leaving Holly and the new baby, and she was worried about Tom driving home alone late at night. They are so good to each other.
Sunday the kids went home, and dad and I attended the Boise temple rededication. Very nice.
Patty had tons of her kids and us over for a dinner after that neighbors and ward members provided. More talking and stories and memories. We stayed there that night after most of the people left. At one point, I marveled at the mess that many kids could make in a basement, but, with the good, responsible kids Patty raised, all was cleaned up and put away without Patty even lifting a finger or saying a word. I was amazed at her focus on her siblings and kids amidst basically chaos running around and throughout the house. Think over 30 kids of all ages from 1- 10 all in one house for hours.
Michael John, Danny, and Martin Woodland all took the time to come talk to me individually, which I loved.
I love being on the farm and the view is amazing!
We woke to no power, so, instead of staying over one more day, I was anxious to go down and see Beckham!
He is adorable, Holly looks great, and we attempted to make them dinner with fresh Idaho potatoes. That did not turn out so good.
Tuesday we visited Dean and his wife's place in Bluffdale. Cool place with another beautiful view!
Back to Tom's, Bonnie's, then Ralph's for Thanksgiving. That was fun. Leslie, Dean, Debbie, and others came. I played pool with Martin Wall and Jason Wall, and cards with Andrew and his wife Kim. Really fun and great food.
Back to Tom's on Friday, then went to a BYU basketball game on Saturday, which was my first one, and I loved it!
Loved Tom's ward on Sunday. He did a great job blessing Beckham, and Holly's brother also blessed their baby in that ward too. We had lunch at Clayton's place, and dinner at Tom's, well, actually, we werent' hungry, so we skipped dinner. I have the words to the blessing if anyone wants them.
Sunday night we stayed at the Ketcheson's. Love them and miss them.
Monday, dad had his own day to enjoy Utah. We went to the Tracy Aviary, his old house, past his old schools, lunch at Iceberg, past our old house on Millbrook, saw the Lincoln movie, and went to temple square to see the lights. Dad was in a happy mood all day!
Got to the airport 3 hours early because dad was worried about bringing the gun on the plane.
Took the redeye home, and that was not so fun. Snow, traffic, and an off the road accident made it so we didn't get home till 10 am and we had landed at 5:30 am.
The trip was long, and a strange mix of emotions, but fun to see so many family and be with my kids and Lexi. Glad to be there for the baby blessing! and glad to be home.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Idaho Adventure
This last weekend I attended the funeral of my paternal grandfather in Burley, Idaho. It was great to see my family (many cousins and aunts and uncles). The trip was quick, but good. It was also fun to travel with my brother and sister. The best memory of the trip will be the following sequence, which I wanted to record.
----
I never miss flights. I am proud of my good karma with traveling via plane. So I really was tempted to leave later that morning. Our flight was at 2 PM and it was only a two hour drive to Salt Lake City. But I thought we should be conservative as we had a baby with us and then we would have time to eat some lunch. We headed out of the hotel and said our goodbyes. I lead out in the rented Ford Explorer and was followed by my brother Tommy (or Tom as he likes to be called now; as if having a child makes him a man) who lives in Provo.
The hotel is literally right next to the highway that goes to SLC. I get on the highway and we chat it up like siblings do while doing 80 on the freeway. About 40 minutes later I get a small thought about why I haven't seen any signs for Utah. We should be close to the border by now. My mind starts computing. Could we be going the wrong way? No, that is impossible. How could I have turned the wrong way? Wouldn't Tommy have said something? The scenery looks familiar, right? Wait, did we see windmills on the way up? Then I look at the compass on the dashboard. It has to be lying. How can we possibly be going North?!?!
All of this happens in my mind in about 3 seconds. We are going the wrong way; the opposite way of the airport. We have been traveling for over 40 minutes. I tell my brother to confirm this on his phone but immediately begin turning off on the next exit. He confirms it and I tell him to call Tommy. Tommy mentions he thought we were going the wrong way but didn't say anything because he thought maybe we had a short cut or something (what faith younger brothers have!).
We turn around and try to determine if it is even possible to make the flight. I am determined we will make it. I am worried about speeding, though, as I had seen many cops on the way up. So we stay about 10 miles over the speed limit to minimize our chances of getting a ticket. We need every minute to make up the time. We are just about back to where we started when Jacob says he has to pee. Really? Now? He can't wait, so we have to pull over. This seems funny, especially when about 90 minutes later he says we have to stop again. It is like going to San Diego with Jimmy all over again. He hasn't even had anything to drink since our last stop. How small is this kid's bladder? We are cutting it close, but when you gotta go... I even take advantage of the stop to empty mine. Why not? The best part is when we stop at the Taco Bell to go in, the men's bathroom is closed for repairs. How typical. We easily remedy this by entering the women's bathroom together. I'm sure somebody will get a kick out of that security video.
The baby (Ms. Lexi) hasn't enjoyed the detour through Idaho. It literally sounds like she is trying to kill herself by a mixed cry/choking routine. Kathy does a good job of not getting stressed. It's not big deal to me; I'm completely focused on looking out for cops and willing time and space to bend to accommodate our flight back to Phoenix. Kathy eventually stuffs something down Lexi's throat (I am sure it was legal) and she eventually calms down. Jacob continually updates us on the time and miles to the airport. 35. 32. 15. We are almost there. I have to return the rental car, but in SLC the rental car place is at the airport, which is nice. We get to the rental car place and I send the other three on their way. I think we have time, but let's not risk all of us missing the flight. If I have to stay behind, that is fine. I'm nice that way. Sacrifice for the good of the group sort of thing. All big brothers are supposed to do that. Of course, there is a huge line at the rental place. I wait patiently trying not to get frustrated. Others in line are doing that for me. Eventually I get there and they charge me nearly double of what they said they would. I question this but realize I don't have time to argue with them. I'd rather lose $50 and make my flight, so I ask for a manager's number to call and rush to the airport. I get a call. All is good. We have time. There is no line for security and we even have time to buy something to eat (well, Jacob takes this time to use the bathroom AGAIN). I get some green machine drink and Kathy and I arrive just as they ask families with babies to board. We made it.
----
I never miss flights. I am proud of my good karma with traveling via plane. So I really was tempted to leave later that morning. Our flight was at 2 PM and it was only a two hour drive to Salt Lake City. But I thought we should be conservative as we had a baby with us and then we would have time to eat some lunch. We headed out of the hotel and said our goodbyes. I lead out in the rented Ford Explorer and was followed by my brother Tommy (or Tom as he likes to be called now; as if having a child makes him a man) who lives in Provo.
The hotel is literally right next to the highway that goes to SLC. I get on the highway and we chat it up like siblings do while doing 80 on the freeway. About 40 minutes later I get a small thought about why I haven't seen any signs for Utah. We should be close to the border by now. My mind starts computing. Could we be going the wrong way? No, that is impossible. How could I have turned the wrong way? Wouldn't Tommy have said something? The scenery looks familiar, right? Wait, did we see windmills on the way up? Then I look at the compass on the dashboard. It has to be lying. How can we possibly be going North?!?!
All of this happens in my mind in about 3 seconds. We are going the wrong way; the opposite way of the airport. We have been traveling for over 40 minutes. I tell my brother to confirm this on his phone but immediately begin turning off on the next exit. He confirms it and I tell him to call Tommy. Tommy mentions he thought we were going the wrong way but didn't say anything because he thought maybe we had a short cut or something (what faith younger brothers have!).
We turn around and try to determine if it is even possible to make the flight. I am determined we will make it. I am worried about speeding, though, as I had seen many cops on the way up. So we stay about 10 miles over the speed limit to minimize our chances of getting a ticket. We need every minute to make up the time. We are just about back to where we started when Jacob says he has to pee. Really? Now? He can't wait, so we have to pull over. This seems funny, especially when about 90 minutes later he says we have to stop again. It is like going to San Diego with Jimmy all over again. He hasn't even had anything to drink since our last stop. How small is this kid's bladder? We are cutting it close, but when you gotta go... I even take advantage of the stop to empty mine. Why not? The best part is when we stop at the Taco Bell to go in, the men's bathroom is closed for repairs. How typical. We easily remedy this by entering the women's bathroom together. I'm sure somebody will get a kick out of that security video.
The baby (Ms. Lexi) hasn't enjoyed the detour through Idaho. It literally sounds like she is trying to kill herself by a mixed cry/choking routine. Kathy does a good job of not getting stressed. It's not big deal to me; I'm completely focused on looking out for cops and willing time and space to bend to accommodate our flight back to Phoenix. Kathy eventually stuffs something down Lexi's throat (I am sure it was legal) and she eventually calms down. Jacob continually updates us on the time and miles to the airport. 35. 32. 15. We are almost there. I have to return the rental car, but in SLC the rental car place is at the airport, which is nice. We get to the rental car place and I send the other three on their way. I think we have time, but let's not risk all of us missing the flight. If I have to stay behind, that is fine. I'm nice that way. Sacrifice for the good of the group sort of thing. All big brothers are supposed to do that. Of course, there is a huge line at the rental place. I wait patiently trying not to get frustrated. Others in line are doing that for me. Eventually I get there and they charge me nearly double of what they said they would. I question this but realize I don't have time to argue with them. I'd rather lose $50 and make my flight, so I ask for a manager's number to call and rush to the airport. I get a call. All is good. We have time. There is no line for security and we even have time to buy something to eat (well, Jacob takes this time to use the bathroom AGAIN). I get some green machine drink and Kathy and I arrive just as they ask families with babies to board. We made it.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Hazel Meets a Doorknob...
P.S. The really sad thing is everyone else was on the other side of the house. So we know it was self-inflicted. Poor accident-prone girl.
Tuesday, November 06, 2012
Tom as a baby
I found some more pics of Tommy. He was sitting up at 6 mon., in a walker at 4 mon, and could hold a rattle at 3 1/2 months. His closeup is still in 1989, so probably about 3-4 months old. Not many newborn. I was healing from my 4th C-section, you know. That will be my excuse.
Thursday, November 01, 2012
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Historical Tales of Jarek
I thought I would jot down two neat stories about Jarek on here just to make sure they are documented somewhere. All of our kids are awesome, but this week I heard two stories about Jarek that I wanted to write down.
The first came while up at the church. One of the counselors in the bishopric stopped Tevia and I and wanted to tell us a story. He said that at the church he had seen a group of kids following Jarek around. Jarek was leading them to the family history room and was asking if he could get in in order to get on the computers. He told us in the end Jarek was told he could not go in without an adult and Jarek asked several adults to go in but couldn't find one. So they weren't able to go in. The counselor was curious why Jarek wanted to get in on the computers, so he pulled him aside and asked him what he was going to have all the boys do while in there. "I was going to have them all sign up to do indexing" was Jarek's reply. The counselor was taken aback and was so impressed.
The second was relayed about a situation during mutual. Apparently two kids (much older than Jarek) were getting angry and were about to fight. Jarek - the shortest young man in the ward - stood between the boys and tried to stop them from fighting. He was able to stop the fight. When Tevia asked him about the courage it took to do that, he mentioned that any bodily harm was worth not having people fight.
I have been inspired to me more brave, more caring, and more devoted.
The first came while up at the church. One of the counselors in the bishopric stopped Tevia and I and wanted to tell us a story. He said that at the church he had seen a group of kids following Jarek around. Jarek was leading them to the family history room and was asking if he could get in in order to get on the computers. He told us in the end Jarek was told he could not go in without an adult and Jarek asked several adults to go in but couldn't find one. So they weren't able to go in. The counselor was curious why Jarek wanted to get in on the computers, so he pulled him aside and asked him what he was going to have all the boys do while in there. "I was going to have them all sign up to do indexing" was Jarek's reply. The counselor was taken aback and was so impressed.
The second was relayed about a situation during mutual. Apparently two kids (much older than Jarek) were getting angry and were about to fight. Jarek - the shortest young man in the ward - stood between the boys and tried to stop them from fighting. He was able to stop the fight. When Tevia asked him about the courage it took to do that, he mentioned that any bodily harm was worth not having people fight.
I have been inspired to me more brave, more caring, and more devoted.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Pictures, Pictures, Who wants to see some pictures?
Some of Zizah's Latest:
And so the other two can't accuse me of playing favorites, here's one of each of them. :)
And so the other two can't accuse me of playing favorites, here's one of each of them. :)
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