Pete and Chris

Random Recent Happenings...

2011-09-25T20:06:00.001-07:00

We have just returned from a family reunion in Show Low. Some group photos we took of those that could attend. This wasn't quite all of ours? Richard and Jaron had gone up to a car show, so they didn't get in the pic. Our beautiful daughter Marcy and her family came.

The reunion was Pete's family of brothers and sisters and their families. This is Pete and I with 1 brother and wife, 2 sisters and 1 sister in law..some of passed on.

Everyone really had a good time!

Now this cute picture was of LoraLeigh's kids when they came to visit this past Summer..Here they are packed my back seat.. we had such a good time with them. The kids were thrilled as a helicopter was landing at the hospital across the street from where we were..Carder was very EXCITED!

This picture was of Marcy and I at the Donny Osmond show. We were so excited and enjoyed the show very much!

Great Time with our Family!

2011-06-25T07:46:00.001-07:00

Something is wrong with this blogging system as I have tried all day to finish posting pics...but failed somehow to make it post the rest of my pictures..will try again later or another day! But here are a few that I have posted beginning with Surfer Tim! He loves to surf and loves the ocean, I can see why as we have just returned from a 7 day vacation in Oceanside, Ca. We had such a wonderful time together with all who could come including our kids and 7 of our grandchildren! We so enjoyed being with them even the "knock, knock" at the door and run game! ( Some of my grands I am sure!) They are precious everyone to me, so it was all great.

Christopher was excited to try his skills at surfing, he enjoyed I think maybe not as much as snowboarding but so glad he tried it! He and his brother Tim enjoyed their time together as they don't always get to see each other very often anymore.

Off we went to Disneyland one day as well. WE had such a good time! Here we are about to board the Mark Twain river boat. It was quite enjoyable I must say. They have a beautiful scenic ride. We enjoy the slower approach these days to Disneyland. Everyone must try the new and improved "Star Tours" so fun!

The beautiful parade was fun to watch and listen to. A new upbeat rock kind of sound to it. Such beautiful costuming and floats! Got to sit and relax a bit which was a relief to our feet!

Marcy and Richard were sitting in front of us during the parade. We got to be with our kids alot too. As LoraLeigh and Vinnie had their 3 little ones to take and enjoy the "small world" part of Disneyland. We got to go be with them riding "Pirates", the train, and the jungle cruise. So fun to watch their little ones enjoy for the first time!Our 2 bdrm apartment was very beautiful and comfortable! Here Tim is enjoying the relaxing part of a vacation.

Tim and C.R. having a little bonding tiWe all had full kitchens so we cooked and ate in some which was nice. Christopher loves to cook and we loved his cooking!

The girls had a "3 bdrm penthouse as they called it. It was spacious and lovely. With 7 kids and 4 adults it was so nice. Here they are cooking in their kitchen.

Oh yes, we all got some sunburns! Here is Tim with aloevera gel smathered all over but we spent alot of the time at the beach and down at the pool. We used sun screen but still?

My handsome sons.

Tim was able to fly down from N. Calif to be with us! We sure are glad he did.

Fun seeing all the ocean type things...such as a lighthouse, little beach shops, the best fish and chips place! We all went out to dinner for Marcy and Richards' wedding anniversary while there and ate at a nice place off the harbor.

This is it for now, I will post more when I can get this to work for me! I absolutely love, love the ocean and the beautiful waves lapping up on the shore...Thanks to my family who came and made wonderful memories for us.

This FIRE is very sad...

2011-06-06T21:40:00.000-07:00

This is the view from yesterday in Show Low near our new Summer home. We are sad to say we have another forest fire out of control near Round Valley, Greer, Alpine....

We drove over with friends yesterday to check on our other friends in Eagar. So very sad as they were getting ready and taking precious belongings that cannot be replaced, in case of evacuation for thier town. Smoke completely covering that area, that we could hardly breathe.

Another view of the plume of smoke mounting and burning our beautiful forest. As things have progressed today, Pete and Jim are actually driving back over to the Round Valley area to pick more of these friend's special things that cannot be replaced...as that area IS NOW been upgraded to "potential evacuation!" This is too much like 2002 when we all had to evacuate Show Low, Pinedale and surrounding areas for the Rodeo Chediski fire! Sometimes life is not fair.

I mentioned I would post my sewing project in our new Summer place. Seems a bit worldly now as my sweet friend in Eagar is maybe having to part with all that she has put into her cabin the last 14 years!

Some rugs I purchased to warm up our little home away from home. Pete's puzzle on the card table.

Another rug I found. Everyone please PRAY for those people with their homes and everything they have in harms way tonight.

Fun WEEK!

2011-05-23T06:42:00.001-07:00

This was an amazing week for me! Ialways have this week off before Summer semester begins at the institute, and my regular routine most every year and I usually do something fun like out of my usual routine!
This year I traveled up to our new "Summer place" in Show Low. I took my sewing machine and fabric to sew window treatments. The weather really decided to be cold, windy, rainy and even snow! But that was ok because I was content to be inside and sew! My heater went out became somewhat of a problem, so I just bundled up and stuck it out...I had a mission and if not too snowy was going to stick the week out. I found a small space heater that was left and kept it going when it got so cold I couldn't hack it. I had many covers on me at night I couldn't hardly move in my bed but I made it and the final result turned out quite nice. (I will post pictures later of our place and the new window treatments) But I did sew for 3 straight days, mission accomplished!
My husband's family gathered for some family time at his sister Sibyl's home for lunch and fun time visiting. I am posting pics of this time as well. She is sweet and dear and nearing 84. (Seen above with me) We ordered in Mexican food and had a wonderful day! Missed all those not able to be there.

Patsy and Sibyl.

Marva and Babe.

Sam and Belle.

At the end of thiswonderful week, we were able to attend Savannah's dance recital. She is getting so very talented...We were sitting pretty far back and of course in the dark. So here are a few of the pics I couldn't resist taking of her in motion! Not the best in photography but you get the 'picture'!

She was in 3 different dances, I loved everyone of them and so very proud of her ability to perform. YAY for Savannah!!!!!!!!!!!

Darling!

Afterwards we were able to get a few family shots! She is getting so dang cute, this one was her idea and I loved it!

Our dance champion!!! Now onto my regular routine which isn't bad at all! Hope everyone has a fabulous Summer, I intend to.!

Finally a post-Long Past Due!

2011-04-16T09:07:00.001-07:00

Most recently, we purchased our little "mountain retreat" as my husband referred to it this morning! We are very excited and can't wait once the temps soar up into the 100's here in the valley, we are out of here and up to our "cabin" in the White mountains.

Only a woman would be excited to show this picture and of course, I love to wash and dry clothes...I have one built in in our cabin! Yay! Life is good!

A picture of one of the rooms before I get hold of it and decorate in our things. This was just a picture I shot when looking to buy.

A shot of the kitchen. The previous owner left EVERYTHING! The only thing we put on a list to bring up is "pepper"!

Of course Savannah made a visit to our home, one of the things we love most about being a grandparent are these special visits with her.

Lukie had his 9th birthday! Here he is with his sister Paige.

Carder had a birthday and turned 3! Lovingly with his sister Kamrielle.

Tim had a birthday too! He is 30 and on his way back up to California in a couple of weeks.

We made a visit to the cemetary on my Dad's birthday.

Trevon tried out and was chosen to be in the Mesa Jr high HONOR band! We were very pleased to attend his concert at the Mesa arts center. They were all fantastic!

Here he is playing his tuba. We loved seeing him excel and developing into such a nice young man.

A picture of him out front of the school when he was in "Hello Dolly this last Spring.

My dear friend, Betty from Missouri came for a visit. We have so many wonderful memories together. She was my "cross the street" neighbor in Show Low. I love her so much!

LL's VISIT and HELLO DOLLY starring Trevon!!!

2011-02-11T15:23:00.000-08:00

WE sure have lots of fun with our family, last weekend was one of those times. Our daughter was in town (SL) so up we went to the "mountain"! We had a chance to see our daughter and our little grandchildren. Caden and Vinnie were on a coyote hunt so we didn't get to see them. CR is 1 now and trying to stand alone and soon will be walking. This last year has flown by, we are so glad our little miracle baby is doing so well. We feel very blessed.

Seemed only yesterday this daughter was a little girl like her little girl...now with babies of her own...She does have her hands full! We love to help out when we can or when she is nearby. Thanks to Jim and Tamra for lending their home to us for picture taking..and being together in SL.

WE also stopped by LoraLeigh's mother in laws for time together. Our Marcy and 2 of our other grandsons also came up to spend time with family...

We sure look happy! Cause we are finding so much joy in our loved ones.

I love seeing my girls and their kids and spending time even in the cold! It's worth it.

I think we have a future Beethoven! He just loved this piano, he came alive..hope he takes lessons one day...hint hint!

With a few of our grandsons.

It was off to a night of musical theatre last night with our grandson, Trevon!

He was so fantastic in the show. He was our favorite one to watch in the whole show.

He made such a nice waiter and dancer...Loved it Trevon!

The costumes Dolly wore were very colorful and pretty. She was a very talented young lady!

Trevon and Stacie were a hit in dancing in this scene. (She is our Bishop's daughter)

Looks like they are sure having a good time!

The finale!

Paying Tribute to DAD...

2011-01-19T20:50:00.000-08:00

This is the family that was able to stay for the Graveside Services on Wed. As I think of the times my dad has been there for me.. I want to write a few of those times down so I can always remember his kindness and helpfulness he was...Like the time he would build shelves for me in my home. HE was the best shelf builder ever! I didn't have alot of room in our little Show Low house as my family was growing..dad would come to my rescue and build me shelves to put things up and away. He once helped me put up an entire artificial Christmas tree! One branch at a time! Ever had one of those?? Very difficult. (My daughter now has that tree) I have an easier one. But Dad helped me the first time to put it together...now that' s love. All the daddy daughter parties he went to. He built me my first new home! Loved it! When times were hard and money was tight and we were laying to rest one our beloved daughters..it was my Dad that went with us to the mortuary and paid the balance of our debt there. Dad always kept a journal...he would write down the most everyday thing..but he appreciated whenever I cooked a meal for him and mention it in his journal. He always showed his gratitude. He took such good care of us, laid the lunch money down every Monday morning...took me on the job to the places he was building.. I loved to watch him hammer.. he could hammer in a nail in 2 swings and louder than anyone I have heard hammer!! He built us a cabin to enjoy on weekends.. such fond memories of us at the cabin. One of my favorite memories was going with my dad as he and I received our patriarchal blessings at the same time. I was about 15 or 16. That was a treasured time with Dad. My dad was a righteous man. I look up to him as only a daughter could and know that he would always hold fast to his principles. HE was a great example to me of how to follow the Saviour. I hope I can only try to be as good as he was. This picture was taken in about mid Dec. last month...hard to believe he declined so rapidly and left us on Jan. 14th. HE is a great man, husband, father and grandfather...for that I will always feel love and gratitude for our father.

The events that transpired after his death last Friday the 14th of Jan.. are actually posted here a bit backwards..beginning today with his burial and graveside services at the Veteran's cemetary. This is when the Military presented and honored Dad with this beautiful flag to mom, which draped his casket . They gave a wonderful presentation. Dad would have been very emotional and patriotic about this.

Here are our pall bearers(sons, sons in law, and grandsons) bringing Dad over to the shelter.

The 21 gun salute was sobering and lovely.

On Sunday we had the viewing. Here Pete with his brother Fred (Irva slightly showing). They have always been there for us.. We appreciate and love them.

A picture of who was left at the viewing that hadn't gone home already...mom with her kids.

It was such a nice brunch with us all getting together Sunday morning. Lovely to eat together and not have fix and clean up at home for one meal. We have the best memories of times past and these last few days with our large family!

I was concerned I didn't get a picture of LoraLeigh!!! But yes, we got one!!! whew! So glad all my kids could come.

Grandpa sure loved his grandkids! Always teaching and inspiring good works..........

Very happy Todd could fly out as well, he was a grandpa's boy for a long time...Tim always willing to help his grandparents out.

Roger's family.. it was a so good Missy, Gary and boys could come too

These brothers, Stan and Roger, are awesome...always working. (Like my dad) they made themselves useful. Here they built mom a raised floor and ramp for easier times coming out of her bedroom. She just has to get used to it.

While us girls were busy laughing and visiting inside, the guys found them a home in the "garage" with the garb. dumpsters... I found it funny and had to get their picture! My brother, Kenny.

Step brother, Roger.

Pete and Stan.

Roger's wife, Carol; Kenny's wife, Judy and mom

Me with our family minus LoraLeigh as she hadn't flown in yet.

Paul with his kids who were there by then..more came later.

The guys had some fun time laughing over all the times we have had together... my sons with Paul and some of his sons.

Mom and son Todd.

Grandma with granddaughter, Sarah.

My sister and I.

My daughter Marcy and Paul's Lucy.

Stan's wife, Kitty who busied herself and made all the girls, beautiful crochet scarfs! Love her for

her time, effort and service. My sons laughing and having a good time with more family times, we will cherish these and more of these times forever and our memories of Dad will live on through his 36 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren!.............We missed those that could not be here, so sorry I didn't get a picture of our step sister Linda, but she was there and helped out so much, she flew out before I could get her picture. Thanks to all of those that could come and be with Dad before and after he passed...Love you DAD!!!

Happy New Year Everyone!

2011-01-01T06:45:00.000-08:00

Dad is 88 years old and ailing from alzheimers and becoming more frail. I think this will be the last time he is ever able to come to my home...it was very hard on him (and hard on me to watch) as he could hardly walk, and then to get him in and out of the car was very difficult. He ate well, then slept in this chair this eve of Christmas. What a wonderful Father!

This has been a wonderful Christmas and happy holidays! ( Went by way too fast) We have been blessed this year and continue to count our many blessings! We didn't get to see LoraLeigh and Todd's families but look forward to our upcoming fun Summer that is planned. We did get to skype visit with LL's family so we did kind of get to see them!

Our daughter, Marcy lives nearby so we had some fun celebrations with her family!

Trevon received a remote control helicopter...of which you cannot really see here...but he is flying it..it's in the front lower right of the tv at this moment. Uncle Tim loved it too, he has gone out and bought himself the same toy since. It is pretty cool I must say!

I love that Christmas time is about getting together as families and friends. We had these times and more...We had friends over at our home this past Monday evening (no pics) but we did..very fun. Also a New years eve party last night at some other friends! Great times for laughing, games, food and HUGS!

Such a good picture of Marcy's family. They are growing up way too fast. Our grandsons from this sweet family are good boys and we sure think the world of them.. and of course their parents!

Yep! This is a 3 generation picture. Mom, me and my daughter. We were so happy to have mom and dad come share with us our traditional Christmas Eve dinner. By the way, Marcy did the design on Grandmas shirt years back, but Grandma loves to get it out and wear it at Christmas time.

I can't remember what we were laughing over...but it had to be funny!

Time for visiting is always the greatest to just sit and be with one another and not be in any hurry to get anywhere...love that.

Happy Grandpa...enjoying his time off! We sure hope 2011 is the best for everyone of our family members and wonderful friends.

Savannah's Dance Recital...

2010-12-21T07:53:00.001-08:00

Here's my favorite of the whole night!!!! Eat your heart out NYC Rockettes!

We had such a nice time recently at Savannah's dance recital. She is enjoying dance so much and it really showed at her recital! We are very proud of her accomplishments and enthusiasm in this wonderful world of dance. We brought her home for a few days after the show.

"Santa Baby, hurry down the chimney tonight"...or something like that..was her music! We couldn't believe her talent and growth since the last time we saw her!

Here she is in motion...

in the black headband...

See what I mean? Look at that cute smile...She is loving this thing called dance!!!

Very pleased grandparents.

And Mom!!!

Christmas concerts, visitors...

2010-12-13T17:59:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about my brother is his wife! Judy has been in the family so long that she is truly more like a real sister than an (in-law).. They recently came to visit mom and dad (shown here with dad and mom) on our way to the airport. Hope someday they can come back "home" to stay.

The concerts we attend really help to bring on the spirit of Christmas! When Trevon's band played "Carol of the Bells", I couldn't help but think of all the beautiful joy and peace we can experience at this time of year! Our one and only Tuba player of the whole band! I was very proud of him. He's kind of hidden by the hugeness of that thing! I love that I got the band director's hand in flight directing so well this wonderful advanced band.

They all looked so sharp including the band director who came out in a tux when his adv. band took the stage. Keep up the excellent work Trevon! Can't wait to see the talent when you get to high school next year.

B-U-N-N-I-E-S! Bunnies, Bunnies..MHS!

2010-12-07T18:15:00.000-08:00

Long ago and far away... these girls ruled at high school! Just kiddin'..but we sure had fun. We were the pom and cheer at good old Mesa High... I will not say how long ago..but most likely you can tell it was a while ago. We get together every Dec. and sometimes they are well attended and some years not. This year was great! We had 9 out of the 12 poms there!!! That is pretty good after @#*^? years!

We invite as many as we can find, this was the first in along time that any of the guys came.

Now don't laugh (dear grandchildren) Your grandma was having so much fun with her H.S.friends posing :)

My best Mae West impersonation..oh boy..very goofey

Keep posing? oh come on...enoughs enough???!

OUCH!!! Sure hurts alot more than it did in our younger days!

Gratitude

2010-11-26T07:03:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving was mostly very quiet..and that's ok. Here mom and I before the feast. I look a bit tired as I was up since 3 that morning, worrying over a dinner for 7! It doesn''t matter how many, you still have to prepare turkey and ALL the trimmings!!! I slipped up on taking more pictures of the day...but we had 2 of our sons, one of our son's friends, mom, dad and us.

Tim and I noticed this most beautiful sunset recently, he loves them as I do!

He ran out and captured the moment.

It certainly makes me aware of all my many blessings when I see God's hand in the creations of the world..I always think of a song I sang once: "God painted a picture and called it the world"

Our wonderful men of the family! We are thankful for all that they are and are becoming... They all gathered near and around Fathers day this last Summer..I guess we are missing Tim also a few other nephews came as well.

I cannot do a post on gratitude without mentioning our sweet grandchildren!

I am so thankful for my girls.

Another incredible blessing, this past year was the birth and healing power that was present of our newest, little grandson Carl Ray. He's almost a year now!

We are blessed with so many wonderful friends and family! As this year comes to a close, I pause to give thanks and ponder the many thoughts and feelings I felt as I experienced trials, joys, grandkids concerts, calls/text from my kids, smiles from my husband...Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

October Events...

2010-11-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

First of all our son and his family came for a visit..mainly for his 20yr class reunion, but we got to see them some. HE is having a birthday this next week and so I am paying tribute to him. I want him to know I think that he is an awesome, kind, loving, thoughtful and just an all around good son! Hope your day is memorable and fun!

Our beautiful daughter in law and her daughter, our precious granddaughter... Tim smiling so cute in the background.

Oh yes and there was a game night...what fun they all had playing...we even got to enjoy one of Todd's school friends who joined us and was waiting for her flight to take off. You are a fun, sweet girl Kashia! Thanks to Marcy and Richard for letting us come "eat, play and enjoy"! (On their beautiful new table that Richard made)...I know, incredible!

Another view of those having fun...

Oh yes, and it happened to be Halloween weekend...these kids were so excited! A scary Paige and Luke!

Savannah and Paige couldn't wait for their fun evening with Aunt LoraLeigh and her kids!

Savannah arrived a day early..I thought her hair looked so cute all braided up! We sure love this girl!

All in all it was so magical and fun! By that term magical...I mean that it is so awesome to think they get here in about 2 hours via/flying. Then when they leave and in about another 2 hours... my son will text or call and say they've landed and are driving home then he heads into work in the same afternoon.. "magical" I loved having them come. We miss them so much when they are back home in Texas. We all had an incredible time with our sweet kids and grandkids!

Family Fun!

2010-09-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

We had LoraLeigh's family this past weekend come for a visit! How we enjoyed this time with them! We laugh, play...the house is a disaster with kids toys and such all over but who cares?! We just enjoy them coming and lighting up our days! Thanks so much for coming!

Grandpa and Carder enjoyed decorating each other with stickers! Cute eh?

Oh to be able to sit on the floor like that again!!! Watching my daughter read to her children...one of the simple pleasures of this Grandma!

Nothing like a baby in the house! I know I've said that one before! Love those cute little baby ways...He is such a joy and delightfully happy, yummy....I could go on...........!

My most fun is holding these little ones! This is number 12...I sure had a lot of time...thanks girls for your times out so I could have my time with my sweet grandchildren!

Celebration and Football!

2010-09-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

Birthdays and football both equate= fUn! We were able to enjoy both on Wednesday! Caden's game in Payson and Grandpa's birthday! I enjoyed watching Caden "enjoy" playing the game!!! He seems to really get in there and play the sport...Way to go Caden and the win was sweet too.

I also enjoyed the family...Tim watching the game and feeding the baby...too cute.

Trevon in his serious look...cute little baby feet...we all tried to get in as much shade as possible in that hot old sun~!

Afterward...the birthday celebration..here's the ones that could be there...So good to have Vinnie home with his family.

Another shot of our group! Christopher's next!!!!!

Our Fun Family Labor Day Reunion!!!

2010-09-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

First of all everyone wanted to hold this cute baby most of the weekend...so he's in lots of pictures! What joy this little guy has added to our family. He is always smiling and hardly ever cries. We sure did enjoy our time with him and all the others as well.

See what I mean? We are so glad to have had this special time with the family that could come.

There was time to chalk draw...

A few football scrimages were held... the boys with Uncle Richard.. so glad he is the kind of father who plays with his kids.

We made a trip up in the woods.. so the girls headed out for a long walk..at least long in my book anymore! Probably not theirs!!! LoraLeigh pushes both of her kids...Marcy most likely shared in that fun!

My oldest with her oldest...

I haven't seen my husband up on a horse in years! That was a fun time for me to watch...with little Carder Pete...

My pretty girls.....who get prettier everyday!

LoraLeigh with her kids, thanks to the Reidheads we had horses and a 4 wheeler to ride.

All the girls that were up over the weekend.

And the young men....minus Pete and Richard....

I know another of C.R....but we all couldn't put him down.

One of the sweetest, best friends I know! Thanks Tamra for sharing your camp with us and all you did to make it fun!

These guys go way back...They are all still very nice looking I might add!

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY WISHES TO OUR GRANDSON, CAMDON! He is one of the dearest we have...always so sweet, quiet in his way of communicating. We so enjoyed our invite out to Texas RH for his birthday dinner!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CADEN!!! Caden you are such a nice young man growing into manhood so fast! We love that you take time to share your gratitude to Grandpa and I...it means alot! (Did you enjoy the oreos? : )

Well that's enough pics of our weekend...but we sure are proud of our heritage that goes way back to Show Low... We love the new sign at SL primary school recently named after Pete's family who sold the land to the school. LOVED OUR TIME with our daughter's and their families and good friends!

FOREVER In Our Hearts...

2010-08-28T10:28:00.000-07:00

As I think about my 4th daughter's birth I am in awe of where she was in her life as I look back... I find little notes in her scriptures, on pages of scrapbooks, on old greeting cards and other keepsakes she made thru the years past. I know she lived such a full life in her 17 years ! She gave so much to all of us and left such memories that are instilled in us all, that we will never, ever forget! I know her friends meant so much to her..so if any of you check this post out the first 2 pics are ones taken by you and made into a precious scrapbook left for us...for that we will always give thanks.

This was taken at Karlee's house? Right? They all had so much fun together!

As we celebrate her birth...I posted a couple of pics with her celebrating with others...here with her brother in law, Richard and Kiff by her side.

Helping Grandma blow out her candles!

Another celebration: Shower for Marcy and baby Jaron on his way into the world....I keep this little shirt Melissa is wearing in my cedar chest as I remember she loved to wear it. WE miss her everyday and thru the years if not more each year...You are thought of many days..thru rainbows, shining stars, butterflies , some of God's wonderful creations..I felt blessed to be your mother and treasure the moments we had you here on earth~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

40 years young!!!!

2010-08-12T19:32:00.000-07:00

My oldest turning this milepost birthday also indicates I am getting older also! So hang on Marcy and enjoy the ride! A mother couldn't ask for a more darling daughter! Here she was in her kitchen preparing a birthday meal for her mother...loved those chicken enchiladas!

One of her most favorite past times... keeping up with her sons! (which she does so well)

I had to put this picture up...I love it and seems like it was just yesterday in a way...on her blessing day.

Marcy is always willing to take care of her nieces and nephews...here she is with our precious Carder.

At one of the many ball games she attends for the her boys..and with another niece and son, Camdon. We love you sweetheart and wish you one of the HAPPIEST BIRTHDAYS EVER!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Dear Daughter!

2010-08-03T06:28:00.001-07:00

Even though she is very far away this year on her special day, our thoughts are forever with her! Who would have thought my little bald headed baby daughter would grow up and have this much hair!

With her busy past time lately!!! A darling, growing family! She looks very happy don't you think?

We sure do love and miss this little girl and her sweet family. But are very happy they are together forever in Texas right now.

Thanks for all that she does for us and for the wonderful grandchildren from her! Happy, Happy Birthday LoraLeigh!!!!

Wyatt Kids Summer Visit!

2010-07-21T17:44:00.001-07:00

I love this picture...When Carder walks with grandpa, he walks behind and watches his feet and copies..it is too cute! Hope we are always the example for him to follow.....!

I didn't grab a pic of Kam while she stayed with us this past while...borrowed from Marcy's pics! Our very darling 6yr old!

I am sorry to show this picture of me and my dependence on this for help..but Carder loved to get in with me and walk..such a little clown!

We would play catch with Carder..he finally got the hang of it! Pretty darn good for a 2 year old to catch!! We were excited and he loved to play!

As hot as it is down here...he still loved to go outside and swing with Grandpa...I finally have to go out tell them that both their faces were red and they needed to come in........

Alot of what I've been doing lately the last 5 weeks while I recuperate from a total knee surgery... I don't know who even took this picture...It's taken some time...but I finally have adjusted that this just may take awhile.. I've read books, watched movies, enjoyed just being home with my husband in the cool of our home...not too bad. ( Actually went for the first time to the office today for 3 hours)

I needed to post this picture as well.. our daughter came over and cooked a most delicious breakfast for us on Father's day.. She is a keeper for sure!!!

41 YEARS! But whose counting?

2010-07-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

JUST KIDDING! I am...We are celebrating differently this year as I am laid up with recovering from knee replacement surgery. Usually we are off to the white mtns for some fun but a little different this year. Thanks to my wonderful husband who gave up his time to be with me...wait a minute I guess he signed up for that 41 years ago...ok! I get it! But it has been hard on me to watch him give up that time...Sorry but it has... I will look back on this Summer and forget I am sure of the rough spots.. but for now ... a tear or 2 a day is not unusual for me...

As I said we would love to be where the wind blows..CAN'T believe I said that! The Pines whirling sound as the Summer breezes come thru.. the thunder and lighting storms..our good friends we love to hang out with...(you know who you are) (J&T) grandkids running in and out of our trailer...taking a drive to who knows where?...cool night air... I know there is always next Summer!

But all in all I love spending my time eating, sleeping and just being where he is! Love you my sweetheart of 41 years!

Happy Birthday to some very special Grandchildren!

2010-07-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

Special because their mine! Happy birthday to our oldest turning 16 this month! We love you Jaron and have enjoyed attending your games when we can. You are an awesome grandson. We appreciate all you do to be who you are!

Kamrielle is turning 6! Happy birthday to our precious little darling girl! We love you and your cute ways...You are a joy beyond comprehension to us.. thanks for your love during this difficult time for Grandma! Call me!

Our "Paigie Poo" is turning 10! Yikes! You got there so soon! Paige is the sweetest, most loving girl! We love her to visit anytime she wants! Come again soon! Grandma needs you!

Fathers, Sons, grandsons and others!

2010-06-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

What a bunch of fine looking men and boys we have in our family! Here are the pictures from this weekend, I sent my camera up and this is what they took! At least they are all together and had such a good time! I don't think Pete couldn't ask for a better Father's day than this! Our sons came (all but one) grandsons that could and a nephew and his son!

Todd was able to come all the way from Austin! Thanks, son for making such a long trip with Luke..aaww such nice memories! The girls and some of their family drove up so they see and visit with Todd and check their "man camp" just kiddin! Here are our 4 kids that made it!

Kiffy Jay with his sweet little neice...

My sweet, precious daughters and one granddaughter...love those girls!

All that I am...I owe to Kindergarten! (or something like that)

2010-05-26T17:47:00.000-07:00

There is a poem that says it better than I said in the title of this post...about how kindergarten set us all up for life...something about learning to love unconditionally; taking a nap every afternoon; graham crackers and milk for a snack everyday...ANYWAY!
I recently returned from a week with my darling daughter and grandchildren. Among the festivities of end of the school year was a promotion for Kamrielle from kindergarten to 1st grade! It was so lovely and I was very proud of the way she did her little part on the program. Thanks Kam for a wonderful week playing with you, Carder and C.R. I had a blast with you in my trailer with me... it is another sweet memory for Grandma!

Here she is receiving her certificate of achievment!

A little sweet shy look after she is coming to sit down after receiving in front of everyone...

I love this little girl so much!

You gave your part the very best of everyone!!!! I know I'm the grandma but I still think so!

I can't believe how well you sang the very best of everyone too! I think you are just the cutest and sweetest of all 5 year olds!

Rejoicing in my children...

2010-05-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

I love being mom. I love my kids and sometimes it's hard to find the words...and so tonight I can't find the words to describe my feelings about being mom, except that I have a deep love for every minute I spent with my kids when they were small and now as they are all grown..my love has deepened. It was my great privilege to have 7 children. (5 living) I heard from them all as 2 of them don't live nearby. I wait for those treasured phone calls. I feel so blessed to have lived this long and continue to rejoice in my children!

I love that my mom is still here with us! I love picking up the phone and calling her whenever I want..going over and serving her..it is joy and fills my heart with more love again than I could ever describe! How did I ever get to be this old and still have my mother with me??!! What a blessing!

Saturday we went over and spent time with mom and dad for Mother's day. It was sweet, simple and good to see mom up and around and smiling again! Isn't she beautiful?

Our eldest had us over for Mother's day. It was so wonderful to be treated like a Queen! The table was beautiful, the food was spectacular, the company was the best!!! Here she is with her eldest! Tim was present as well thanks Tim!..My camera died, Marcy has those pics and will email me soon with his picture!

With her darling middle child...

and the youngest! (I didn't say baby)

Camdon read us one of his latest poems. What a treasure my grandchildren are!!! Thanks again to all my children for your kind words and deeds!

Savannah is 11 years!!!

2010-05-06T21:48:00.001-07:00

She is growing up and so beautiful! WE are so proud of her accomplishments. One of them is gymnastics.. we went to watch her perform and I must say I was so proud of her and the way she tries hard to excell in all she does.

I left my camera home and so these pics are not very good..(cheap camera) But you can get the idea! I couldn't believe all the girls and a few guys who are enrolled in this gymnastics program..They do a fabulous job with these kids.

Here is our Savannah in action! What form?!!!!

A very proud mother of her sweet 11 yr old daughter.

I think it shows how we feel... We love and appreciate all this darling granddaughter is to us! She is a treasure and a delight! HAPPY BIRTHDAY Savannah May!

Carl Ray Has His Special Day...

2010-05-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Here he is already for his blessing day! He really is a good baby and never cries much..I guess he doesn't like his picture taken...(sorta like his dad and brother, Caden) Our daughter takes such good care of her family.

Finally an updated family picture of our sweet Wyatt family. My, their family is growing!

Another shot...I'm not the best at getting everyone and I am always told to hurry! but this is not bad!

LoraLeigh and Vinnie worked hard in the kitchen and made such a nice dinner on Sat. and Sun. WE sure loved being with them all, wished I would have got a picture of the snow we received on Sunday! Melted by the time we had our dinner and headed home.

The cute grandkids that were able to attend the blessing. Eight out of 12 not too bad!

C.R. having some play time on his tummy... We didn't have all these pillows and such for our babies...all nice helps for baby though!

One of the best pictures of the weekend! Thanks Uncle Richard, I think you were taking some pictures for me..if you took this one..thanks again! Todd's Cute Savannah and LoraLeigh's,Kamrielle!

Carder was out and about..he loves outdoors...I followed him around one morning...he loves the swing!

I just love the blue sky and clouds in the mountains. They are sooooooo beautiful! The view is from LoraLeigh and Vinnie's front porch.. Such good therapy for me. This was another great joy along the journey of life.. being with our kids, grandkids, Vinnies side of the family as well, on a very sacred and special occasion. Those that could not come, you were missed.

Older Caregiving/Younger Caregiving...

2010-04-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

Life has it's seasons' and I'm certainly in a busy one...(I know I'm always in a busy one) but this one is different as I have witnessed the aging process of my dear parents. They are needing us kids at this particular time. Dad is in pretty much severe dementia and Mom is recovering from a pacemaker insertion surgery and a right broken wrist (cast) from a fall. It's been very hard on them. Time consuming for me. Those of you that have helped out...Thank you very much! They did so much for us, it is only our turn to give back.

We had the joy of watching our grandkids yesterday..for that is another great privilege we so love to do! I love to be around small ones..they make me laugh, I never grow tired of watching their cute little ways. Pictured above is C.R. just before he was falling asleep.. isn't he getting chubby?

Here is Carder...he wanted to be a cowboy so he found this sun hat of Grandpa's and wore it around a big part of the day. He thought it was cowboy enough for him! Grandpa in the background watching his garden grow!!

Loving to play with the dump truck...

One of Caden's favorite past times. Curled up with a good book. Serving our family.. it's all part of the plan and of course, Family comes first!!! I sure love mine.

They've always been there for me!

2010-04-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

Through out my life there as been some rough days...(the loss of 2 of my daughters), but when the going got really rough, I could always count on my sisters in the "Relief Society" to come through. It's not a big thing they have to do, it's not like they want the glory or anything, they just want the hurt to go away for anyone that might be hurting...My mom is currently going through some rough spots in the last while, in and out of hospital, heart issues etc. My dad is suffering from dimentia, the list goes on as my brothers and sisters are taking up the slack so to speak..anyway. I came home the other day and found this little gift on my porch. It brought a tear to my eye as I reflected on times past when "my sisters" have always been there. I am so thankful to them and those who care so much when we feel lonely and tired from caring for those we love.

Spectacular Conference Weekend!!!

2010-04-05T22:01:00.001-07:00

This picture sort of sums up our great trip! We were so happy to finally get to our session we had tickets to... we loved every minute that led up to this day and the good times that followed. The conference center in itself is magnificent and to be with people from all over the world in our glorious worldwide church continues to strengthen me in all that I do.

On our way up to conference, we took the boys through Zions National Park. We saw so many beautiful mountains and rock, it was impossible to snap a picture and do it justice... I did try in a few...

We were very blessed to take our two 13 and 14 year old grandsons with us. They sure keep me young! Here I am with Caden who didn't always open his eyes in pictures and wasn't willing to take more pictures, it's ok!

Then there was Trevon! I hope they had as much fun as we did!

These two are among the finest! They stand tall with Grandpa and I.. I know they will be great men.

We stopped along the way in Zion's, the boys would run up to the top of some of the hills, and I would snap... worried me some, but they were fine.

See what I mean? Scary! But I know they are big boys........

Coming down the rocky hills. Nice stretches on our long drive to Salt Lake.

More nice views of us at Zions. As we were coming out of Zions, right on the road is this guy's yard was elk he had fenced!!! I have never (I don't think) been so close to elk,,had to take a picture! The picture just above is the boys at "This is the Place Monument" We enjoyed a train ride around viewing the sights here.It was very cold in Utah this time! We made use of our Winter coats this trip!

More wildlife running in and around the park at "This is the Place".

We also took them to the "First Encampment" We wanted them to know and be proud of who they are and where they come from...as their great, great Grandfather was among those first to arrive in Salt Lake and the "First Encampment. Found his name engraved in some of the stone there.

The beautiful Conference center and two very handsome young men.

Can never get a bad picture of this beautiful temple!

Love this view of the temple.

It stands tall and proud just like my grandsons...

Here are Trevon and Caden inside this arch outside of Moab! I was amazed at their ability to run up those hills and get to their destination. They are building character and strong bodies just as this solid rock, solid temples, solid gospel background I know they will continue to follow the path of our Savior as they hold fast to the faith they are building through out their lives.

What makes me Smile.....

2010-03-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

Lately when I'm driving down the road, I find myself smiling at different things I see or think about...such as someone walking a new little puppy... a mommy walking, holding her children's hands with her small kids to or from school or anywhere for that matter, when I see someone assisting an elderly person(usually a grown son or daughter)..makes me smile..and when I see a newborn baby, ALWAYS puts a smile on my face! So many other things...I love to see children at birthdays! Here below is Carder on his 2nd birthday...

Is this the cutest? Carder opening a gift, Kamrielle observing with their new puppy, cradling as if it's her baby! Precious.........

My daughter helping her nephew with his gifts, reading cards and sharing her love and her home with us all....

OH my! Big trucks to play with in the dirt. I know he's thinking "can't wait"!

Grandpa who cares so much for and about his kids and grandkids!

Love to watch the whole thing! The blowing out of candles, mommy preparing a cake so he can go thru this sweet, happy, smile provoking time! We all had our mouths blowing to help him do this for the first time...

A loving daughter with her children and her delicious cake she made...makes me smile..thru some happy tears...

I had to throw this one in!!! My mountain man husband preparing for his "arrow of light" ceremony he does for cub scouts... Makes me smile and very proud of him working so hard to make it all so nice for his cubs! Smiling is what makes us happy, I am so glad that I have so much more to smile about in this life than not! So I will keep on smiling...and finding more new things in life that will put a smile on my face and stop for a second and realize the joy!

CARDER turned TWO!

2010-03-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

This little grandson turned 2 this week! Happy Birthday to our darling Carder Pete! We have had the opportunity to take care of this little guy now and then in the last 2 years..I must say he is so much fun! He is a busy, cute, funny did I say busy? Oh yes, but we wouldn't have him any other way! He loves to watch airplanes and birds and he especially loves to shovel and play in the dirt.

This was last Summer at the pool, very cool Carder!

He had an owee on his finger this past year... He could crawl like nobodys business with that cast on! It was hilarious to watch, he would either clunk it along or slide it smooth and fast as he would glide across the floor!

He dearly loves it outdoors, I think he would spend his entire life out there if he could..comes by that naturally as his father spends alot of time out there as well..Looking forward to more fun times this coming Summer with this "angel" grandson! I know..they are all my little angels!!!

A Little Rest and Relaxation...

2010-03-21T17:13:00.001-07:00

Sometimes you need to get away and we did! We had a wonderful time at Roper Lake near Safford. Some of our friends from the ward came also. It was beautiful desert setting with the snow capped Graham mountains as a back drop! I never grew tired of looking at those mountains, they were so pretty. The weather was magnificent with visiting, good sleeping and all that goes with camping...except we had water and electricity...hey! that's my idea of good camping!

Hard to imagine we were in the desert with those beautiful mountains!

Such a pretty lake and to think these parks are closing due to finances! Oh so sad...what's happening with our government?

The wildlife around was so cool. We had quail, roadrunners and bunnies running around our campsites... and this wise old owl was in the top of a very tall Palm tree...I was excited to get this picture!

Across from our camp, someone had made this homemade birdfeeder...we watched all the pretty birds come in... this Cardinal came rarely..isn't he beautiful?

GRANDKIDS!!!

2010-03-15T21:34:00.001-07:00

Oh what fun we've been having at our house! Presently we have Todd's kids staying with us while their parents are on a 10 year wedding anniversary trip... of course Savannah came to visit as well. These sisters have the best time with each other... I just got thru doing a vinegar rinse on their hair.. Makes it shiny and healthy! I used to do it on my girls hair, my mom on mine...and so it goes!

Very funny grandkids! They have had such a good time playing with cousins...I have had the best time watching.

I had to make a face at them to get a nice smile. It sure worked cause this is a keeper! Trevon is 14...what can I say?

Cuddle time!

Computer and u-tube time!

We celebrated 3 birthdays with a breakfast Sat morning, cinnamon rolls were on the menu.

Previously we went up to Show Low to check on LoraLeigh's new little guy...we took her 2 of her kids to the DQ.. here is Carder with his cone.

Kamrielle is 5 and losing teeth, they are so adorable with those smiles! I have had a great week with visits from most of my grandchildren whom I adore!!!

CR comes home!

2010-02-20T09:10:00.001-08:00

It was a happy day at our house yesterday! Little CR got to come home! It's with mixed emotions to send him on home, cause I loved having them here with us during the baby's stay in the hospital..but I was thrilled he was going home with his family and I know my daughter and son in law were so happy about this day!

This is my Dad with his little namesake! I can't think of a better man for this job. If little CR can live up to all my dad is, he'll be a wonderful man!

She's a natural at mothering...I am very proud of my daughter and the way she handled the past 3 weeks! This was happy ending to have them drive off with their littlest baby boy...

For posterity, this picture is a "gem"!

Great Grandma with her newest link to our family tree!

These parents look a little tired from all this activity they've gone through, but I have never seen them look happier!

Grandpa and I will miss these other 2 little ones we cared for while mommy and daddy were caring for little CR... we had a great day with them at the mall eating pizza and riding the 2 story carousel! Carder loves horses and had hard time deciding which 2 he would ride!

Kamrielle loves this thing! She rode 3 times..2 on the upper level and 1 down...We already miss you all!

OUR Baby is Getting Stronger!

2010-02-17T13:24:00.000-08:00

Everyday little C.R. is getting stronger! We sure do love him and have prayed for his continued good health. It has been 2 weeks, a little over since this whole episode began. Life is precious, of that we know for sure and have NEVER taken it for granted...but still the tests and trials come. This little guy has been passing all his tests that he needs to come home..he has a few more but it is rumored that the possiblility of coming home is very soon! His mom and dad are ecstatic!

We hold him, feed him and change diapers, only it has been at the hospital! There's nothing like a baby to bring you closer to God and know where all blessings come from.

It has also been said he is a "little Whipple" at least he takes after his mother's side of the family..I can see it in this picture especially in the mouth. His mother loves his cute dimple in his chin!

Mommy and Daddy taking good care of little Carl Ray...

His nurses have been caring so tenderly for him as well.

I love this full view of our newest edition to our family! So precious and tiny!

His very favorite spot...in his Mother's arms cuddled and getting ready for his trek home very soon.

Wyatt family update

2010-02-06T09:36:00.000-08:00

It's with many tender feelings in my heart that I write this post. Our precious little Carl Ray Wyatt, (our littlest "Ray" of sunshine) was born to our daughter LoraLeigh last Sunday Jan. 31st in Show Low. He had some complications and was critical and so Phoenix Childrens was notified and they sent a lear jet to fly the baby and his daddy back to Phoenix. Alot of worry and concern I felt for this new mother giving birth by c-section and then having her baby have to leave without her... she did wonderful! After a couple of days of recuperation in the hospital, where her sister Marcy stayed day and night with her, she got to come home. I stayed in her home in Show Low and kept the home fires burning, LITERALLY! I tended Caden 13, (well he takes care of himself pretty much) Kamrielle 5 and Carder 1.5 years, and I must say it was the most fun for me! Like I said after a couple of days, LoraLeigh wanted to be with her baby, so we packed, and drove down to Mesa..she immediately had her dad (Pete) take her over to Phx to be with Vinnie and the baby.

This is our precious Carl Ray...he's been such a good patient..that word patient takes on new meaning for me... patient: understanding, waiting, love, healing, goodness, unspoken kindness, trials, the list goes on of what I feel regarding this situation.

Grandpa, found Kamrielle asleep like this and wanted me to take a picture of her in this sweet pose..........

I was playing outside this morning with Carder and caught a few pictures of him watching birds, airplanes and such.

We sure Love this special family and are praying for a speedy recovery of their darling new babe. But meanwhile we sure are enjoying having them home.

NOT so bad turning 60!

2010-01-30T05:07:00.001-08:00

This story of the butterfly cake goes way back (40 years ago!) My first celebration of my birthday with Pete, he surprised me with a beautiful cake he made! Remember he was young and wasn't sure about baking, he baked it in one of our "jello molds", didn't realize the cake would rise as it baked so he filled to the brim! Needless to say, when I got home it was lovely and very much appreciated! So guess what? I received another one yesterday and was another nice surprise! Ironic that the "butterfly" has become so important in the last 14 years!

Here are a few reasons, it wasn't so bad hitting the big "60"! Sure didn't realize after Todd was born, it would be another 10 years before another son was born to us! And 2 leftys!

Luke and Paige made us these darling gifts this past Christmas...just a few joys of this past year with my sweet, dear family...

Another highlight was driving to Show Low and visiting this precious daughter and family!

The caboose...

Those near and dear to me know the significance of this picture.

I have wonderful parents who make a big difference in my life, who taught me right from wrong. I received knowledge of who I am and where I'm going..the importance of this life and the life to come...

In humility, I received this gift from Marcy! A picture of us with our grandkids and thoughts on why I am loved! THANK YOU, THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!

Laura has a birthday!

2010-01-27T05:55:00.001-08:00

I know she told me she doesn't have birthdays anymore, but I do...so I guess we all will "grin and bear it" I love this daughter in law and love how she mother's my grandchildren, takes good care of my son, cooks, keeps up with the house, finds time to be a chiropractor, runs marathons....the list goes on! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my multi talented Laura!

Friends and Family come for a visit...

2010-01-11T05:36:00.000-08:00

The holidays are over, but it doesn't feel as though they are! We have had some dear friends and family visiting lately. My brother Kenny and his wife Judy pictured above and below, with my parents too. We all had Sunday dinner together yesterday.. I think it was the longest time with my brother in years! It was a wonderful day!

These friends go so way back.... Corky and Eileen, we had a little home years ago when we were first married that had an apt attached which we rented out.. Corky and Eileen rented from us. They moved back to Wisconsin in 1971, we have not seen since, but have always stayed in touch at Christmas. They have retired and have come to the valley of the sun for a month's visit, staying out east of town. We have so enjoyed renewing our friendship with these wonderful friends. They are the kind of friends you just pick up from where we left 37 1/2 years ago!

They loved our Marcy and could not wait to see her! Of course she has no memory of them, but oh how they loved her! MMMMMMMmm is that our grandson Trevon in the background?? (Marcy's son.)

Our Christmas 2009...

2009-12-31T08:37:00.001-08:00

Off we went to Austin TX, to be with our son and his family... In one of our silly moods, with our grandkids taking the picture!

This was one of Paiges' first sentences! We love visiting new states, new places to see, new foods to the area! (Texas BBQ! YUM!) We had fun along the journey to Austin!

Todd and Laura's home is beautiful! We hadn't visited since their new move.. here Paige and Luke in front of the tree.

Christmas morning! Luke in his new helmut to go with his new cycle...fun!

Like father, like son...Star wars..............!

Paige modeling some her new digs!

Todd loves the movie " Rudy" we all do.. watched it one evening.

Our kids are good to us.. evening at a resort.

Laura trying out her "thing-e-ma-jobit!" for keeping track of her running, all kinds of good stuff it could do!

Outside of their new home....

Pete in the fam. room...

Todd making us breakfast...

Todd re-modeled his staircase, very creative!

The kids in the formal dining room.

I enjoyed this day with Luke, he dropped his little cycle for awhile while he and I went for a ride in the neighborhood, he showed me his school and other country roads outside of Austin where they live.. we also laid on the trampoline in the backyard, watching different shapes of the clouds ,looking at the birds with Todd's binoculars... it was a beautiful, memorable day for me to have some one on one with my grandson, Luke!

That same day, Pete and Todd built a gate for their fence.........they also looked like they were having some fun. ("Work" can become fun in our family our kids know what we mean?)

This was a fun time at the "Salt Lick" Austin is known for this BBQ place... it was sooooooooooo good.

Meanwhile we had about a 20 min wait,, good time to take pictures! Our darling Texas kids!

Our group!

We sure loved this precious time with these cute kids! They are growing up and away too fast!

Our good looking Texas cuties!

We decided on our way home, to stop by Show Low to visit our daughter and her 2 little ones. (Vinnie and Caden were on a hunt in Tx!) It was really cold there, but we sure enjoyed our time with them! The kids were given balloons at the restaurant we all went to..they sure enjoyed the silly things!

New towels for Christmas! Are they not just darling in them? Warming up by the fire.

Carder loved to put Kam's hat on and play with his gun...

Kamrielle entertained me dancing and singing to her rock out cd! Aunt Marcy made the cd for her ... she is quite the dancer and singer!!!!

We sooooooooo enjoyed the time with the kids and grandkids this Christmas! Now home and back to the usual... it's all good!

Some Turkey and some Mistletoe, help to make the Season Bright...

2009-12-21T06:45:00.001-08:00

I recently went to Show Low to see my grandkids Christmas concerts and these are a few pics I took! Linden School puts on a fabulous, (I call it) Christmas pageant! The kindergartens were first. Here is so cute Kamrielle as the "mistletoe"! Loved it!

She was a little shy but not when came to saying her part! She was loud and distinct! Her "sparkly dress" look exceptional!

I also saw the next night Caden's band concert! Fantastic!!!! I was a very pleased grandma!

Our adorable Kamrielle! You made the cutest mistletoe ever!!!!!!!!

I took this in her new little snow hat! She really liked it, the other granddaughters got one as well, Paige I'm bringing yours to you this week...Yippee! Texas, here we come..................!

NO Turkey this weekend...

2009-11-29T08:21:00.001-08:00

Even though it was Thanksgiving weekend! We had celebrated with turkey and the trimmings 2 weeks ago when Todd was visiting. LoraLeigh and her 2 small ones came to visit as Vinnie and Caden were hunting.. We were thrilled to have them. We found not too many restaurants open on Thanksgiving which surprised me..but found a delicious meal at Mimi's cafe..yum! I love this cute picture of Carder!

LoraLeigh and I took them to the park that afternoon... here they are and as they could see the park in their sight..they began running and still holding hands..cute. I had fun fixing Kam's hair like I used to do her mother's hair... she called it "princess hair".

Carder loved this horse and always went back to it..He found the slide at the end and I counted, he went 13 times in a row going down the slide!

Kamrielle wanted me to take a picture of her buried feet!

Together they came down! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Our pretty little Kamrielle...

Tis the reason for the season...off we went to see the lights at the temple.

Not a great picture of the kids..but such pretty lights!

Kam in front of the camels...

I know it's supposed to be Winter..but it doesn't feel as though it is..flowers and all???! Cute small Carder.

So glad our daughter and her kids came... it made a wonderful 2nd Thanksgiving!

THANKSGIVING 2009

2009-11-23T12:57:00.000-08:00

http://www.lds.org/topic/gratitude/

LOTS OF REASONS TO BE THANKFUL THIS WEEK AND ALWAYS! Most of my blessings are seen in the family picture above! Love to all my sweet family immediate and extended!!!

Todd and Luke come for a visit!

2009-11-18T06:11:00.000-08:00

Its been along time since we have had Todd in town for his birthday! So I decided to have a surprise for him when he arrived! I think he was pleasantly surprised! Too many candles to put on so I put 3 for his 3 kids! WE were so thrilled he and Luke could come... Paige and Laura were missed.

Todd is one of kind ...he has such a great, loving, giving personality! I love his smile!

This was the thrill of my life to give him back his star wars sheet I had saved all these years! I made it into a quilt for him! He seemed thrilled to get it! He still loves star wars and even named his son "Luke"!

Where did the years go? Seemed the other day you were 8 and making your bed with those sheets.

Very proud parents of our grown son.

I told a few about the evening and look who stopped by? Todd's very favorite cousin, Reed. These two have a few stories together!!!!

Todd with Reed, Jen, Aunt Irva and Uncle Fred....

The next day we all went to the park to let the kids play. We sure had a nice time...Todd with his kids, Savannah and Luke, oh and his favorite mom.

Of course we were lucky to get adjustments from our favorite chiropractor!

While he was here in November, we decided to have our families Thanksgiving together! Here are some of the kids at their table...

and some of the adults...we had Grandma and Grandpa Ries as well!

Four of our beautiful children! ok, "handsome" guys!

Show Low is in the play-offs, so off to Gilbert we went to see them WIN their game! Todd with one of his best buddies, Will.

I was trying to get my grandchildren in the foreground..not too clear. But the gold and green is pretty clear!

A little tired from a very busy time, but excited to be with our kids and grandkids!

Silly grandkids!

Our last evening together before Todd went home...good times and wonderful memories to hang onto.

Happy Birthday Todd!

2009-11-10T17:09:00.000-08:00

I know,,,, time to bring out the old pics! That's me.. even tho they are old and sometimes even torn...it was the only one I could find of my newborn son. How happy we were to get this son after our first child was a girl! We didn't find out in those days... it was a pleasant surprise! Todd was the only one to come "near" the due date, and he was the smallest of my seven! 8lb.1oz.

This one of Todd shows, how he loved food! (and still does) He always savors, relishes, and enjoys eating! He had a quarter of a watermelon he had taken off the table and thought no one was looking! I tell ya he was a hungry boy! I always loved this picture of my little chunky guy!

It was 10 years later that we finally had some brothers for Todd... He was a good example to those 2 little guys...Here at Todd's eagle court of honor with Tim and Kiff.

The love of his life... Laura

Here with his family. We love and appreciate this good son, his wife and of course... our darling grandchildren!!! Can't wait to see you all very soon!

REUNION TIME AGAIN...

2009-11-08T19:49:00.000-08:00

We had a good time this past Saturday, meeting up with cousins! We met up at a park in Chandler with about 60 or more in attendance, which was pretty good for the most part, we all live in the valley area. Even tho most of this family began in Show Low. Trevon was the only one that could go with us, he learned alot about family reunions..(most people he didn't know) But he was a good sport and came with Grandma and Grandpa anyway! I told him that the one thing he will like is that they have the best food ever at these reunions! And I don't think he was disappointed in that area at all!

Grandpa gave a little talk on William T. Oliver. He did such a good job...one thing I think he said which is important to remember is: "It's important to know who you came from as you learn about who you are."

Cyndi and "little miracle" Lucy, she only weighed a lb. or 2 when she was born...

Thanks Trevon for making our day fulfilled and spending time getting to know your cousins and ancestors!

A Day with the our Grandkids...

2009-10-26T06:22:00.000-07:00

We always enjoy our grandkids and Saturday was no exception! LoraLeigh and Vinnie were down trying to upsize their transportation for their growing family...we kept the 2 little ones! What fun we had!!! They started their day still in their jammies..playing with the dump truck and dirt....

They sure had fun and played so well together.. So glad Kamrielle has her little brother to play with!

Carder likes to climb...he would climb up and swing with Grandpa in our swing. Love the foot in the air!

All cleaned up and now ready for the day...Carder climbed right up on the couch with his sister..so cute.

We even made cupcakes then went to the park.

Of course Carder favorite was this horse....

Kamrielle excited me when I saw her up on top of this!!! She did just fine.

Swinging at the park.

At the end of our day with them...guess where they wanted to be? Yep, back out in the dirt shoveling. We had a wonderful day with them!

Fall (last campout 2009)...

2009-10-16T17:29:00.000-07:00

I do love Fall! I love the color yellow, aspen leaves that have turned, the crisp mountain air! WE made the trek up to retrieve our camper in SL and then brought it to Canyon Pt on the mogollon rim...So relaxing and beautiful. We have traveled by that campground for many, many years, never thought to camp there.. It was so nice.

The top of the rim overlooking where we have driven all these years on our way to Show Low. It was a beautiful site!

We took the drive to Woods canyon. Here we are overlooking the vast country below!

Wood's canyon lake.

More pretty aspen...

We even took the drive to Show Low to see our sweet grandbabies...and our darling daughter! Kamrielle can't keep those eyes open for her picture! She tries so hard to!

Is that just so pretty?

The oaks were also very colorful. Our friends from the ward also camped with us...
Donna and me.

This is the view they had from their dining table.. I was so jealous! The Aspen surrounded all of us. Here are Pete and Z (is that a cool name or what) are ready for dinner!!!

Time with Savannah and "Time Out!"

2009-10-12T17:05:00.001-07:00

We had a visit from Savannah while she was on her Fall break. These next 2 photos are "self portraits"! She loves to play with the camera! Don't be mad cause I put them on the blog, Savannah... I think they are cute. Savannah is 10 now and finds her own fun at Grandma and Grandpa's house... We shopped, went to the movies, Camdon went with us to the movies! Such fun I am having with these grandchildren.

I don't think there is any doubt whose daughter she is..she looks so much like her Dad, Todd! She has so many of his mannerisms as well. Hummmmmm, maybe she'll be a Dr. like him someday,,, she kinda has "the look" in these pictures.

She likes to wear my glasses sometimes and goof around in her pictures, here with Uncle Kiff.

Sometimes she just likes to snuggle...

Savannah went home Friday, then Saturday was a "time out for women" in Phx! Here are my good friends Jane and Jeanne... 2 years in a row we have gone together! We had a fabulous, uplifting day! So fun to see friends from Show Low there! There were 1,800 women present and I still ran into many I knew! It was a great day.

Birthday and Going home....

2009-09-28T06:14:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel as though you have 2 homes? Yes, I went "home" again this weekend for 2 reasons.. My son Christopher's 27th birthday! Happy day son, love you so much. He is a quiet man with a good heart. He does so much for me and for others and I appreciate that trait in him.

The other reason is shown above... LoraLeigh was in charge of a display about "heathy eating" at exceptionally well done presentation of her stake! She did a wondeful job on her display as you can see... I enjoyed my time with her on this great day! We enjoyed the broadcast together as well.

I was privileged to be with my sweet grandchildren too! I spent time outside watching, playing and laughing with them! This gave time for LoraLeigh to get what she needed get done for her display. It was an awesome weekend!!!!!!!!!!

A Wonderful Couple Celebrating 50 Years!

2009-09-18T07:33:00.001-07:00

Hard to put in words the gratitude in my heart for these 2! They have been there thru thick and thin... When we were married, Pete's parents had already left this life...I actually never met them. Anyway we asked Fred and Irva to represent his parents..hard to believe they were only married 10 years when we were married! Seemed longer than that at the time. Also during the illnesses of our 2 daughters and what followed, they were there for us. I stayed in their home while those experiences happened. I can never re-pay my heartfelt thanks to you both for that special time in our lives. So this past weekend was spent paying tribute to this wonderful couple and 50 years together.

We just had our 40th wedding anniversary!

We all gathered at our home before and drove over to the anniversary for Fred and Irva together. I grabbed a few pics before: Aunt Marva above

Pete's sister, Patsy, Sorry Patsy, I didn't have my glasses on to see your eyes were closed..oh well.

Babe, Belle, Sam and Patsy...

Sisters' in laws, not all but a few of us.

Two of Fred and Irva's kids, Cyndi and Julie in the middle and 2 of Julie's kids.

Julie's daughter wanted to get in the action of photography,, Here taking her mom's picture! Very cute Julie! Sorry I didn't get everyone's picture.. But I wanted to say that Fred and Irva have 5 great children who are married and have equally nice spouses, we love them all! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO THIS GREAT COUPLE!

Someone's Havin' a Birthday!

2009-09-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

Dear little Carder Pete, you have big shoes to fill, named after your grandpa... I love this picture cause I know how much the kids and grandkids mean to Pete. Paying tribute to you is hard in a few pics...but I am trying! I love you, love our family that we have together and so happy that soon we will have 12 grandkids together! A'int life grand?!

Not getting older...just better!

Beside you I will be...

My hero, trying to get water for me in the camper(along with Jim)

Celebrating birthdays with a couple of grandkids who share the same month. What fun times we are having with all of them! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

FAMILY CAMP-OUT....

2009-09-12T06:35:00.000-07:00

Every other year our family(Pete and Chris) go camping...we enjoy this time in the woods. Most often it rains! And the weather did not disappoint us this Labor day as well! WE had a relaxing time with most of our family (Todd's did not come and were greatly missed) We even added a few other families...Check out what pics I did take and was able to gather most families that were there...starting with ours on the top minus Kiff, he had gone home already.

The Turley fam...

The Wyatt clan...

Marcy's in laws... Ray and Jerry, they were wonderful to set up camp for us with a huge canopy for the rain..cooking facility etc...thanks so much for coming Ray and Jerry!

We were lucky enough to have great friends come too! They are always so much fun, cooked a fabulous breakfast and laughed at my silliness!

They really do love each other! I just happen to catch them playing around as we were packing to go home.It was pretty cold at times with the rain, the fire felt really good even tho it takes a few hair washings to get the smoke smell out!

I don't know why my camper was chose to be the kids' game playing area! But here I am with some cute grandkids!

Some of the guys in their most favorite place... the great outdoors!

Future great men!

Tim in front of a beautiful grove of Aspen.....

Cadens' a Teenager!!!!!!!

2009-09-09T18:18:00.001-07:00

On your special day, we want to share our love and thoughts of our unique grandson, Caden. He was born first in their family and was alone for awhile til his sister came along...what a grand big brother he is to his little siblings! I know his mom and dad feel blessed to have such a helper!

Caden was a chubby, good and loved baby! Here he is with his mom who took such good care of him.

Caden is full of talent! He plays the trumpet and is in many "excelling" classes at school. He will go far in life with his love for books, the arts, and his love for God and following the commandments...he takes his responsiblities very seriously. I know he wants to become an eagle scout.

Seemed the other day when you were this small! We sure feel blessed to have you in our family and want to wish you a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!

Happy Birthday To My Sweet Niece!!!!

2009-09-07T19:28:00.001-07:00

I wanted to express my thoughts and love to my sweet niece Vanessa and wish her a very happy birthday! I love blogging and it has brought me closer to my niece who lives a distance away...but thru the computer we are able to be close! Here she is with her darling babes..she is a wonderful mother.

Here she is with my darling babe, Marcy and another cousin, Liza! These 3 did many things together as small children and have still maintained their good relationship through out the years! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU VANESSA!

Pre-Labor Day Camp-out...

2009-09-03T06:08:00.001-07:00

These pictures are a little backwards in sequence, but anyway we went camping this weekend with our good friends Jim and Tamra. Afterwards we stopped off at their house, they loaded us with fresh garden veggies from their beautiful garden! We have sure enjoyed our friendship with these 2 special people!

Farmer Jim with our prized box of veggies!

Jim and Pete picking in the garden.

Now back to the camp-out...Here they are actually cleaning up and getting ready for the trip home.

For those of you that know about the "butterfly" story in our family...here's another!

We were sitting around enjoying the beautiful morning when what came to join us but this beautiful butterfly! She/He landed on the 4 of us! It kept coming back...and landed and just stayed awhile! How wonderous, enlightening, and plain ole' cheered me up! The miracle of the whole story is that it just happened to be Melissa's birthday...I can't deny our Savior's love and comfort He gives to us in days of sadness..............

Happy Birthday CAMDON!!!!!!!!

2009-09-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

Today our youngest of the Turley's is 10 years old! We are so proud of this young man and know he is gifted in many ways.(I the grandma am prejudiced) He called us this past Monday night and spent the night with us! We loved it and our special time with him as we do all of our grandchildren!

He loves people and they love him back! He and Luke (Todd'son) love to hang out together when Luke is in town.

He loves sports and soccor is a favorite! We love to go to his games.

Hope you have a fabulous 10th birthday Camdon! We sure do love you!!!

My Daughter's Birthday...

2009-08-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

The 29th of this month we celebrate the birth of our darling Melissa. I have so many precious memories of our sweet girl...where do I begin? She was such a joy. Since we had gone through the death of our daughter Courtney 15 months prior to Melissa's birth! Oh, how excited I was to have another baby girl and 9lb 5oz! Whew! She was so cute and chubby when she was born. Of all my kids, she was so attached to me. She had to sleep with us...cried when I left her for a minute... I had to sneak out of the house when going out for a bit... she wouldn't cry as much. She was attached to me at the hip,,every mother needs that kind of baby, as it is pure joy to be loved as much as that! Now as I look back, these are the sweetest of memories for me...even when she would sneak in about 3 years of age in a really dark house, make a little bed on the floor on my side... well I could go on. The above picture shows her love for make-up, fingernail polish, manicures etc Here she climbed up on the bathroom counter and smeared my cleansing cream, and has my favorite tube of lipstick, so glad I snapped this picture!............ she was a girl and loved to primp!~ Loved to dress cowgirl too...what a doll!

She was Teri and Paul's favorite babysitter...she loved Sarah, Eddie and Dylan. I love this picture as it shows how happy it made her to be with them!

This is one of my very favorite photos I took of Melissa...Melissa lost her life to leukemia in 1996..but as this reflection reveals her life will go on, her love of children will continue as I know she loves babies as the picture of Christ reveals in this photo as well...We miss her terribly, sometimes it's unbearable, but I know she is at peace until we see her again.

Anniversary Get away...

2009-08-23T06:45:00.001-07:00

But not ours...it's our daughter's and we got to take care of our grandkids! We really enjoyed our time, they were so fun and especially good! I know their parents were worried about them and if Carder would cry...sorry... he didn't, he looked at your picture quite often and we wondered what he was thinking...but I think it's good all around for everyone to get away once in while,,,good for parents and good for the kids! Of course we had all the props to keep happy little grandkids entertained! (sweets) as seen above, toys, movies and reading to them. We also enjoyed laughing and listening to them.. all their cute sayings, Carder's animal sounds he makes! Kamrielle's cute kindergarten ways, reciting the alphabet to us etc... We loved it!

Oh and Happy Anniversary to our darling LoraLeigh and Vinnie! We hope you had a fabulous get a way!

Beautiful at every age!!!

2009-08-13T15:45:00.001-07:00

Today is my beautiful daughter Marcy's birthday! I adore all my children but you sure remember the birth of your first it seems! So, as I reminsce on my first born, pardon me? She is a wonderful daughter, mother, sister....I was the happiest girl on earth when she was born...it's kind of wonderful that she enjoys babies... she was certainly the apple of everyone's eye in my family as she came first and all my brothers, and sister , grandma and grandpa doted on her!

As I said cute at every age...I see a little Camdon here...

I think she could have been in the movies! Her graduation picture.

Did you wear that dress to your 8th grade grad. just cause your mom made it? I see a little Trevon here.. Isn't she darling?

Well I look happy here! Everyday I awoke to this precious little girl that was my dream come true! Thanks for making me a mom for the first time!!!

Your blessing day at Grandmas...Happy Birthday! Love you very much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sunrise in the White Mountains!

2009-08-11T13:13:00.001-07:00

I know sometimes I post pictures that may not mean anything to anyone (but me) But feeling somewhat down about my recovery from knee surgery I needed to post this beautiful picture I captured this morning . This is the view from our travel trailer we have parked at our daughter's home near Show Low. I woke early as I do most mornings and this is what I saw the first thing out our window at the head of our bed. I arose and dressed went outside for a better view... well it was spectacular! As you can see... but not only did it excite me that it was a new day...but that I could with patience learn and take the time to view what we have before us each and everyday! The afflictions that come upon our bodies at times, the adversity that creeps in our lives... sometimes wanting to overtake us with grief and pain... WE realize it is only temporary and will not last... we have so much to look forward to.
I am a blessed woman with a family who loves me and friends who are always there for me.
For that I am thankful for as I was this morning with this beautiful sunrise to welcome me to a new day!

Family Reunion!

2009-08-09T10:42:00.001-07:00

We had our family reunion yesterday which was my side of the family (Ries) A good time was had by those that came.... we missed those that couldn't come. Above is a picture the whole gang that was there! Kamrielle came a week early and stayed with Aunt Marcy and us... She got this funny folded up in half position while watching her tv shows...I thought it looked so funny!

We had our reunion at Val Vista lakes in Gilbert..so pretty with an actual beach...sand and all!

I took this cute picture of a few of the men in my immediate "fam" a bunch of handsome guys!

So glad Tim came... I don't always get very many pics of Tim... he jumped in and played with his nephews.. love you Tim!

Marcy, Richard and few others sunning on the beach!

Trevon enjoying the day...

Tim with his nephews trying to get the upper hand... I think Jaron is about there!

The cute Wyatts' enjoying a very hot day... in the water where we all should have been!

Here are Great Grandma and Grandpa Ries with the grands and great grands who attended.

My sister and I... a little bedragled from the heat...but proud of who we are anyway! Reunions do that for you... make you realize the good memories from the past and a little more proud of our good name.

The beautiful granddaughters who were there, my girls are the first 2, then Alice's daughter, Kenny's daughter and Stan's 2 daughters.

I took this picture of Kenny's family cause I think it's the first of all of theirs together in along time...at least reunion time. I thought that was so great that everyone of them were there!

My brothers, sister, mom, dad and I...of just the four of us that came... check out the large picture at the very top of this post!!!! Hard to believe how much our families have grown!

Wishing you a Happy Birthday!!!

2009-08-03T07:14:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to our daughter LoraLeigh today!! She is 35! Hard to imagine that our children get to that age?! But they do... LoraLeigh is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the out!

She was always a joy when she was this age... actually any age! She was excited to receive anything as it shows this particular Christmas!

The kids love to have sleep overs on our trampoline...here she is with sister Melissa and friend Terry from Taylor.

She and Vinnie have been together so long...it seems.. they will be celebrating their "15th" this month! "They are a darling couple!

She adores her babes...here she is showing Grandpa Great.. Carder.

She should be very proud of her family...she works very hard as a wife and mother! I am very proud of her.. we love you honey! Happy Birthday!

40 Years...really??!!!

2009-07-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

Yum! this frosting is good! It's really hard for me to believe that these 2 kids married 40years ago! But this Sunday we are definately celebrating 40years signed, sealed and still enjoying our married life together! When I walked out of the temple that day knowing I would be with Pete forever....it was bliss...thru the years, we have been thru alot... but we love each other and know that it is all worth the hard times as well as the good. He's my partner in life, and has helped me to build a good family with children and grandchildren whom we both love and adore!

Here are a few shots of us at some of our vacation spots...above is Ruidosa, New Mexico.

The beautiful Grand Canyon...

This was not a vacation spot... just liked the picture and reminds me that I can be thin again if I work at it!

One of our 40 Christmas' together!

My handsome groom (who by the way was very nervous that morning!) But we sure were in love and glad that July 19th, 1969 had arrived!

KAMRIELLE is 5 today!!!

2009-07-10T06:57:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Kam! This little granddaughter is such a joy and so full of personality! Thanks Aunt Marcy for snapping this latest picture of our sweet girl!

She loves to play, imagine, write, swing, talk, and dream...wonder what she's thinking here?

I love her so much and enjoy having her with us, recently we took her camping with us and had the most wonderful time. She loves to ride her bike and we walked along side of her in the beauty of the mountains...happy times.

She loves her mommy (our daughter) and we do too!

Kamrielle loves for us to leave surprises under her pillow whenever we leave her home... she has figured out what she usually wants us to leave too! She is full of fun and surprises and we enjoy this little game with her.

She loves to draw and make pictures for everyone! This is one of her pretty creations!!! Thanks Kamrielle for your fun, energy and always loving Grandma and Grandpa! Hope you have a very special day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAIGE!

2009-07-08T12:36:00.000-07:00

My darling Paige, how I miss you today!!! I hope all good things for you sweet granddaugher of mine... I don't like it that we live so far apart...but anyway I want you to enjoy your birthday knowing our thoughts are with you and that we pay tribute to you on your day with this little post...Paige is a gymnast and very good at that!

This is a photo taken I believe at S. Padre Island where they vacation the last couple of years.

She loved Carder and helped take such good care of him last Christmas!

More Christmas...

She and her sister Savannah are like 2 peas in a pod... they get along so very well... love to watch them play.

Darling Paige...

Three of my 5 granddaughters... HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAIGE! Grandpa and I love you so very much.

Celebrating a "Week" of the 4th of July!

2009-07-08T06:11:00.000-07:00

This year was full of fun, family and friends! This is a picture of my table (my daughter and grandsons made the centerpiece) Isn't pretty?

I really like this picture of our special friends: Jim and Tamra! Their family joined us camping on the 4th!

Pete and Jim enjoying the great out of doors dutch oven cooking.. They both made the best desserts! One was a chocolate cherry marshmellow cake, the other a peach cobbler...we sure enjoyed eating both!!!

Celebrating Mom and Jaron's birthdays on the 1st of July...

Mom, her daughter and granddaughter...

Marcy and I preparing birthday goodies...Jaron loves cinnamon rolls and everyone loves fruit pizza!

Two Special People in Our Lives Celebrate Birthdays!!!

2009-07-01T16:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Mom and Jaron this day! My mom is 82 today Jaron is 15...WE SURE LOVE YOU!

Such a precious memory of last Summer... I absolutely loved our time in Utah!

I know Jaron doesn't enjoy taking pictures..but he sure is cute!

What a good brother he is to his two younger brothers! I love the way they are with each other... I laugh and enjoy watching their interaction... I especially enjoy watching them watch something funny whether it's a movie or TV... they crack me up!

He is so great with his cousins who adore and admire all he is and all he's becoming!!!

If it weren't for my daughter who gave birth to these fine young men, I wouldn't have all these great things to say about my grandchildren!!! I know I am blessed beyond measure has a Grandma...

Jaron, Thanks for all you are and the repect you give to me and Grandpa... You are such a great young man, we are pleased as can be and love you to pieces!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

A Week in the Mountains...

2009-06-28T22:00:00.001-07:00

June sure has been a busy one so far! We returned from our little vacation to Co. and Ut... came home for 2 days then off to the mountains for a week camping.

This actually was taken today on our way back to Mesa. We stopped off to pick up Caden to spend a week in Mesa. Kamrielle was just dying to take a picture and she actually did ok. She was trying to get her little brother to cooperate...this is the best he would do....I think she did pretty good!

LoraLeigh and Vinnie's family minus LL..as she was at a meeting.

We came in to pick up Kamrielle as she was going camping with us the last few days... she had her last swim lesson so we came into watch her swim! Here is Grandpa with Carder at the pool, I thought he was so cute as he is now walking!

Carder loved trying on my sunglasses!

At the Dairy Queen after the swim lesson...

Kamrielle was smiling I think the whole time she was in the pool! She sure enjoys the water!

Our sweet daughter with Carder at the pool.This is a funny story! I had mentioned to Pete that there was "no water" coming out of the faucet in the trailer...Jim and Pete proceeded to get under our bed and take the thing apart... finally after around 1/2 hour... Pete said! We are out of water!!!!! I think next time it might be the first thing they check out....oh well..

LoraLeigh, Vinnie and family came up our last afternoon and evening to spend some time with us at our camp...Carder so enjoyed the great out of doors! He toddled around discovering all kinds of things in Nature...

I knew they would enjoy this game! It was so fun... Lasso golf... We all enjoyed playing this game.

OUR CAMP! Pete, Chris, Jim, Tamra, Zee and Donna...

Just a pretty picture on our walk down an old country road at camp.

We played alot of games.. Donna loves cards... they even got me to play and I quite enjoyed it!!!

I Think I Can..I Think I Can...!

2009-06-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

We are officially back from our vacation this Summer! You all know the story of the little engine that could? Our engine in Durango Co. reminded me alot of that story as he pulled our train over hill and dale...literally! We went everywhere in 3 1/2 hours! Up hills by rivers, in the woods in steep canyons... I was pretty proud of how this shot turned out! You had to snap fast as we were back in one of the cars, but it made this turn and "snap", I got it! We highly recommend this trip!

Now back to the beginning of our vacation...we began in the White mtns at our daughter's house. Here is Grandpa with the kids feeding the horse carrots.. Carder and Kamrielle loved this. Carder makes the sound of a horse whinnying, it truly sounds like a horse! ...when he sees one out the window,,, he will make the sounds, it's darling!

We made a trip up to Big Lake to check out the campgrounds...so beautiful up there... here is LoraLeigh and her small babes.

Grandma and the cutest 4 year old ever!

We got this shot cause Carder was on my lap while riding on the dirt roads... he hung over and out the window til he fell asleep..so cute.

We even got to take in one of Caden's ball games...the last one.. here is our 3rd basemen in action!

After the game... loved being with you at your game Caden.

Then off we went to Durango... here we are in front of the train depot with a few cute horse colts.

What a handsome man! Pete visiting with the other passengers from Iowa.

One of the pretty scenes along our ride.

Me in my relaxing mode... loved that part of a vacation.

You can't believe where this train went!!! By the river, thru steep canyons, up mountains...

by kids riding zip lines!

by waterfalls...so beautiful.

Then we arrived in Silverton, that looked like something out of the Swiss Alps! It was so pretty, took you back in time..when life was a bit simpler. We looked around in the shops, ate lunch at a place called the "Bent Elbow" was really good!.. Sat on park benches and took in the views that were incredible of huge mountains all around still snow covered.

See what I mean?

On our way to Utah for our next venture... Look at the "view" behind us!

We were able to attend the temple in Manti before the pageant that evening.

We arrived at the gate when it opened at 6pm.....but get ready for this ...the pageant didn't start until 9:30pm!!! Due to daylight savings in Utah..it gets dark then. But we had a great time visiting with other pageant goers... we got to know the nicest young man who was covering the pageant events for the Church news... he was so kind and we enjoyed him taking the time to tell us great experiences he has had photographing the Prophet and other church events. Very interesting.. he even taught me a few pointers on my camera...need lots of help!

The cast went around visiting with all of us before the pageant began. What a bunch of great kids!

Starting to get cold... but was bearable..we had great seats for viewing the pageant.

Just before the pageant began...Was a wonderful evening.

Our quaint little motel... very small town, but comfortable.

On our way home we saw a balloon festival.. they were so pretty and up early like us!

A Little R&R!

2009-06-11T21:21:00.000-07:00

Me and my hubby are heading out tomorrow for a little needed vacation.. we are off to the White Mtns first then off to Colorado for a train ride...next: to So. Utah for a pageant! We are excited for the rest and relaxation!

We most likely will come by this on our way home... we love Jacob's lake, just to look around at all the curio creations in their store! Not to mention their fabulous cookies! Yum, they make the best lemon zucchini cookies... Have to wait til the end of the trip, something to look forward to! Will post trip pictures later (after we return) Bye!

Stan and Kitty visit...

2009-06-07T06:36:00.001-07:00

It was so nice to have a visit from Stan and Kitty this past weekend! Stan is my step brother...you couldn't ask for better! He is one of my favorite older brothers! I don't think he knew when he came to visit mom and dad, he would be put to work! THANKS Stan for all you did yesterday to help out! You are a perfect brother in my sight. Kitty is a fabulous sister in law... her soft quiet way is endearing and sweet.

We had so much fun as kids! The cabin at Strawberry was a blast when the kids from California would come and stay!

Of course we had to head out to Texas Roadhouse for our meal out! It was delicious as always!

A little wait time at the restaurant...Dad always so photogenic!

Pictures at mom and dad's...

more...

and more...

Stan's other child! Isn't it beautiful! 39 chevy... He has a talent for building, painting everything about this car is Stan. They belong to a car club and travel together...what fun!

Summer Blooms Around Our House

2009-05-28T21:12:00.001-07:00

As Pete and I began walking early this morning...beginning our quest for exercise once again!! I couldn't believe my sleepy eyes! I thought someone had stuck 2 long white flowers in our yard! I walked over and realized one of the cactus bloomed! They were so pretty they didn't look real. Had to get a picture! First time we've had it bloom, sure was nice to see it bright and early this morning!

Another view of our desert flowers...

These hibiscus are blooming so pretty right now also..the hotter the better, alot of you never see our kitty as she is a "scaredy cat" when we have company...well, here she is with Kiff!

Memorial Weekend 2009

2009-05-27T16:39:00.001-07:00

Our family has always enjoyed camping together, some can come the whole time and some can only come a day ... Marcy and Richard could only be with us a day..but we loved seeing them come! What would our camp be like without Marcy and her love of games! The kids just love to playtoo... Grandpa even played a round of monopoly!

We have always gone up and camped a little thru-out our lives.. we have enjoyed getting out and being with our loved ones or friends... Pete sharing his dutch oven cooking with us!

It was still cold up in the mountains.. so this fire felt great! We had some drizzley rain also... but it was nice. Here Vinnie gets in the mood with his cowboy hat!

The guys played horseshoes and created their own baseball and bat (stick and pine cones!)

Inside our camp trailer all cozy, LoraLeigh with her cute kids! She didn't want me to take her picture without make up and all! Who cares when your camping!

Mother and son riding wheelers!

Father and son... Carder not walking quite yet, enjoyed this leaner tree for great viewing at his first camp-out!

Caden kept himself busy with whittleing away at this stick whenever he was still.

Caden with his little brother and sister...so fun to be that young!

I love to ride 4 wheelers,,, Caden got a little carried away and rode really fast! But I loved it!

Sometimes we even cook inside, a little of our modern conveniences way out in the forest! Thank goodness for propane!

A Sweet Weekend...

2009-05-18T16:41:00.001-07:00

We look for any reason to go up to the White Mtns this time of year... as it is getting down right hot in the Valley of the Sun. We have been anticipating little Tyler's baptism for some time now.. It finally happened this weekend. So off we went! We of course stayed with our daughter and her family. Little Carder still has his cast on.. but it doesn't slow him down a bit and look at that smile... he is such a happy baby!

Here is Tyler in the blue shirt (our grand nephew) and a few of us at the baptism. We had a wonderful get to gether at Aunt Patsy's home afterward...Lots' of family fun and food!

Tyer was sooooo excited about this special day in his life.. We were so glad to be there with him and our dear sister, Patsy and her son Mike (Tyler's daddy) Together Patsy and Mike are raising a fine boy.

Meanwhile back at the "Wyatt farm" Ha! Here we are out at the new chicken coop! Carder loves his chickens and he loves being outside after a long Winter.

This was another story!! LoraLeigh has little bird that nest every year on the outside front door inside of her wreath... I found it fascinating and got up and took a picture of the pretty blue eggs... it was so sad as her outside cat must have noticed too and she attacked the very next day after we left!!! So sorry little birds...

We had Savannah this weekend and took her with us for all of the fun! She was shadowed everywhere she went by Miss Kamrielle! They had such a great time together!

My pretty little grandaughters...

My little Savannah left this morning, we have more sweet memories together...Love our time!

Once Upon A Time...

2009-05-17T16:03:00.001-07:00

May 17th, 1977 is a long time ago... but still a part of life that can never be forgotten. Our little Courtney Susanne was born. Although she only lived 10 days, she was loved no less than any of our other children. She weighed 8lbs 4oz. and seemed to be a beautiful bouncing baby...until one of the night nurses in the hospital detected her coloring as " a little dusky" bluish in color. She was flown to Phoenix the next morning, her dad and I made the trip by pick up truck..calling in a phone booth at Globe to see if she arrived at Good Samaritan in Phx. alright...she had. The next 9 days were long... and yet glorious as I look back. When you have a sick child, each day is as if you have been thru an entire year! She nursed heartily and seemed to be thriving as well as she could... but she needed micro heart surgery we were informed on her 9th day... we were blessed to be able to embrace her, tell her of our love for her, kiss her goodbye as she was wheeled off in that little bassinet to surgery... after an eternity of about 5 hours...we were told she didn't make it through. A piece of my heart died that day along with the "sweetness in our lives" We learned alot about joy, sadness, miracles and letting go. I will never forget the closeness I felt of that sweet warm cuddly baby clinging onto life for only a few days. She passed her test! It broke our hearts to let her go...but oh the joy of knowing what we know... and the blessing of seeing her again one day. The picture above is not Courtney as I have none...but she was remembered has being such a beautiful baby.

Mother's Day at Our House!

2009-05-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

Ok I really was awake! What fun it was to have my mom, Marcy and I to celebrate Mother's day with our loved ones around! I have always lllllllOVED being a mom... but each year it just gets better! I had such a wonderful weekend with Camdon's game and all yesterday...lunch out with Tim and Jaron... and now today cooking with my husband, make a nice meal for my mom and daughter and her family! Can it get any better? I think not! Hearing from Todd and LoraLeigh also made my day. I love my dear children. You are my everything!

Darling shoes from the cutest girls in the whole wide world! (sketchers) Yay, I now own some!

Pretty flowers from my husband, Tim and Kiff. A sweet embrace from our lovey Trevon.

Grandma Ries enjoying "cool" Camdon!

The best part: THE GUYS CLEAN UP FOR US!!!!

Cozy up together in the AZ room

What handsome young men!!!

I have the greatest family! With sweet parents...Sunday dinners and good visiting...Sure am proud to be the mother of 7 wonderful children! THANKS TO ALL MY KIDS!

MY MOM...

2009-05-10T08:09:00.001-07:00

Might be hard to see these... that's how old they are... not me, just the pictures...HA! Anyway..I love my mom and wanted to pay tribute to her.. Here we are just the 5 of us when we came to Mesa many years ago... My mom loves to laugh and you will see in all the pictures..she has a radiant smile! Mom, that is what kept us all going! This was an Easter morning... l to r-Mom, Kenny holding Scott, me with the flower on my head...and Alice.

The whole gang! Mom still smiling with that many kids! In the 50's it was hard to manage!..but we did it! It's a bit hard to see but there are 8 of us kids (and a dog) the little mother holding Paul is me.

Now we are uptown and have colored pictures! This is actually an old polaroid! Mom loved those cause she could have instant pictures made! Just a few of us here..as Kenny was on his mission at the time. Mom you did a beautiful job raising our bunch! You always laughed and I think that is probably the key... I know I need to work on that area... thanks for your hard work, your example, and for your strong faith, for that I am most thankful.

Fun Saturday time with Camdon!

2009-05-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

I sure had a nice early afternoon time with Camdon and company! Due to circumstances beyond my control...I havent been to any of his games til today! What good, quality family time! Here he is running his little legs off #53. Isn't he cute?

He looks so focused...I see quite an improvement since last year.

Uncle Tim went with me...we picked up Jaron as well. Here are some of Camdon's fans enjoying the game and the Arizona sun!

This is from the other end of Camdon's fan club! He had 1 mom, 1 dad, 2 grandmas, 1 grandpa, 2 uncles, 1 aunt, 2 brothers and 1 cousin! That is quite the support for our "cool" grandson!

This is our soccer player after the game... along with his mother and little cousin. Love you Camdon, enjoyed our time watching your team!