Sweet Little Addition

Just moments before midnight we welcomed a sweet little addition to our family.

I am sure Maria was relieved when the nurse turned on the light and prepared the newborn area for a new arrival. I sure was. It had been a long day. Maria and her mom and sister had been at the hospital since early in the day. Jacob and I arrived in the afternoon. We had even stopped and ate at Wendy's. (First time in years I'd been in there.)

She is precious! Just perfect.

Welcome, little Lucy Ellen.

Easter Sunday

It was so fun to spend Easter Sunday with family. John and Kelly, their girls, TJei and Mia, Quentin and I all attended church together. The girls were so cute! We missed having Jayden join us but just wasn't to be. She stayed at their house with her mommy.

It was a beautiful day and it was so very good to spend the time together.

Another Departure

Just two short weeks ago Aunt Katie passed away (February 21) and today it is her husband, Uncle Ray that has crossed over. What joy there must be as he is welcomed home by Aunt Kate and also his daughter, Wanda together with other family and friends. The greatest comfort in this news is knowing Uncle Ray will no longer be lost and confused, no longer be alone in his mind with random thoughts and memories. He will know his loved ones, he will know their love. He knows, he is home. RIP Norman Raymond Grigson

Celebration in Heaven

It was so hard to drive to Show Low this morning. Mike had a couple doctor appointments so we left out early this morning. In the quiet as he layed back on the seat, my thoughts kept drifting to the late night call from Aunt Eleanor. Her oldest sister, my Aunt Katie, had passed away. What a heavy heart I've had since hearing the news even though I knew in the days leading up to her passing that she was weaker and weaker and her death would be eminent.

My thoughts have gone to my dear Mother and it is easy to envision her joy as she was reunited with her older sister. I can feel their embraces as they hold one another ...they've been apart so long. Aunt Kate has always been a mother-figure for my own mom; always there to help with whatever need arose. They were so very close and I know Aunt Kate has missed her each day since she left this earth.

I can envision Aunt Kate being reunited with her first love; Uncle Paul. He left so early and she had so many to care for after he left. It was so very hard for her to go on alone with her six young children. Hospice didn't exist back then. She cared for her young children and her dying husband, the love of her life, on her own in their home. It was so good when she found someone to share her life. She took on the responsibility of mothering Uncle Ray's four children just as her own. Their relationship became so tumultuous over the years as Alzheimer's, then undiagnosed, invaded his mind and thought processes. It was so very hard for her to endure all that she endured over so very long. She did endure, for as long as she physically and emotionally could endure. Eventually, Uncle Ray had to go into a care center to have round the clock care and Aunt Kate was alone to face the world.

As her own health worsened, Aunt Kate went to Alabama and lived with Aunt Eleanor for a time. She was there about two years, returning to Toledo last summer when they traveled north for the family reunion. Aunt Eleanor wasn't able to continue caring for Aunt Kate with her increasing medical needs and inability to care for herself. Aunt Kate went into a care center.

My mind's eye is filled with memories of Aunt Kate holding my face in both of her hands, the sparkle in her eyes dancing with joy, as she would pull my head close, face to face with her, and confirm her love for me. There were never half-hearted hugs, never words of endearment without a smile and happiness in her eyes. When Aunt Kate held you close and expressed her love, you *knew* you were loved.

My thoughts go again to the celebration, the brothers she loved so much, her sweet infant granddaughter, Ellie. The thought of her cuddling that sweet baby girl brings a smile to my teary face. Her other grandchildren, one just over a week ago. And, her own mom and dad. I can envision her legs strong and healthy as they carry her into the arms of Grandma and Grandpa.

I love you so much Aunt Kate and there will always be an empty spot, a hurt in my heart, knowing you are not here on this earth any longer. You had a special light and you shared it with so many.

August 17, 1931

February 21, 2011

I am grateful for the love of Heavenly Father and knowledge of the plan of salvation. I am comforted in the knowledge of life everafter. Families can be together forever, in Heavenly Father's plan.

Birthday Wishes

Happy birthday! It is so hard to believe you're in your 30's...you're still my little guy, and always will be. No one has held my heart in the way you hold mine. The hurts are so deep, the joys so precious, there is pride beyond measure. I love you John and hope that this day is special beyond measure for you.

Happy Birthday Davis!

Happy birthday to the sweetest little boy ever! I love you so much Davis and it has been so fun watching you grow, learn, and explore. I can't wait to see what two holds in store! Happy birthday sweetheart.

Visiting Friends

Isn't he the cutest? This is Joseph, he is seven years old. Somewhere I have pics of him as a little guy, in a spiffy tuxedo dancing at a wedding reception - with TJei. They were so cute out there together. :)

Now he is so grown-up. And he likes playing Wii. That strap on his wrist went on after the controller went flying. His mom thought it would be a good idea to use the wrist strap. He agreed.

And, he was such a good sport about letting me take a couple pictures of him. Thanks Joseph. :)

Mike and I had such nice visits with Dave and Joanie over last weekend! We visit far too seldom these days. We really need to change that.

Dave and Joanie were kind enough to open their home for me and the girls while Mike and Quentin were trying to get Jodie's car running. The car was about a mi`le from their home. The girls and I had been sitting in the truck, it was hot and it was uncomfortable being so confined so long. Mike called Dave and they invited us to come on over. Thank you Dave and Joanie! That was a lifesaver and the girls had so much fun playing with Joseph's castles. I had a fantastic time reminiscing and visiting with Joanie. Love you all. It'll be great to stay in touch with your girls on FB, too! That is so cool. :)

A Great Day For A Blessing

Today was a special day. Jodie had made plans for Mia to be blessed today and it is so good to know she now has a record in the church. I am so glad Jodie did the planning and follow-thru to make sure Mia was in fact blessed on this day.

TJei was a mouse or something when she greeted us on arrival. :)

Look at all that hair! Mia's hair is so thick.

Mia was having fun with Uncle Quentin. So glad he could come up. :)

Uncle Quentin was having fun with Mia, too~!

Bishop Jackson blessed Mia and after she shook hands all

 around, she hopped down from that chair and ran for hugs. :)

Sweet little Daphne, the first picture I've gotten of her in a long time. :)
Still haven't gotten a picture of Davis lately. He stayed off to himself
with so many people around. Turkey.

Elder Sypher (today's his birthday) and Elder Gunter were there' too. :)

Jodie with both girls. Thanks, Jod. It was a nice get-together and the taco soup was good. :)

I don't remember why TJei was crying but I told her I wanted a picture and couldn't take
one with her crying. She immediately stopped crying and flashed a smile. What a character! :)

Three of the six girls. Sure wish the others could have been here, too.

Missing the others bunches. :(

Mother's Day

Yummy, for Mike's tummy. He loved the chocolates and I loved the pajamas and homemade card with tiny little pictures of two little treasures. Thank you so much Jacob and Maria. :)

Mother's Day has been special, it always is but this year was made extra special with an early morning phone call that Kelly had gone into labor and was on her way to the hospital. I drove to the valley that morning and contacted Lori C to ask her to conduct at Relief Society for me. She is always so willing to do all she can, I appreciate her so very much.

Quentin and Felicia gave me a birthstone charm for my necklace...for my beautiful little granddaughter's birth month. I love you and I love her. Thank you so much.

Easter Egg Hunt

---pics to come---
The little ones were delighted with the balloon "eggs" Quentin and Philip hung from the tree branches and patio roof. They were awed by the sight of the colorful decorations as they came out the back door of the house. They had so much fun scurrying around looking for eggs and Grandpa kept them going for a long time as he rehid the found eggs without them knowing. :)

After hunting Easter eggs we returned to John and Kelly's house and enjoyed a pancake breakfast (thanks John) with strawberries. Then, Conference...

It was a lovely morning.

Birthday Celebration

We traveled to the valley Friday but we didn't leave until after TJei's Primary Activity so it made for a late night drive. I think Mike appreciated the timing though since everyone went to sleep and he was able to enjoy Willie on the radio without interruption. :)

All the family got together at John & Kelly's on Saturday evening for a cook-out and birthday celebration. John puttered around in the backyard, cutting grass and trimming things for an evening swim. Kelly grilled burgers and she had prepared trimmings and seasonal fruit. Her nephew Tyler participated in the fun and her brother Sean dropped by later in the evening.


Kelly baked a birthday cake for Baylee and it was just adorable. Pink, too!


After blowing out her candle, TJei tried to introduce Baylee to the nose in the icing trick Demitrius introduced to her. TJei tried the back-of-the-head-tap while Baylee was "smelling" the cake but there was a set-back. Aunt Kelly had kept the cake in the fridge until just before show time ... the icing was cold and hard, it didn't smear on her nose! LOL TJei tried a couple times! Baylee was such a good sport trying time and again to smell that cake and scowling at TJei for pushing on her head! It was so cute!


Uncle John to the rescue! He managed to come up with a dollop of icing to dab on TJei's nose and just make her day. :) She was so worn out from the swim. Speaking of swim, the kid was doing back-flips into the pool! Just awesome.


Baylee had a great time with her birthday presents. Quentin gave her a little viewer with another set of image cards, Jodie and the girls gave her a little sock monkey.




And, Jacob, Maria and Davis gave her a little flower power sprinkler that I know she is going to have loads of fun with.

It was fun to spend the evening with family - especially for such a special occasion. Thank you John and Kelly. We love you bunches, Baylee. :)

Changing Lives

As he so aptly reminded us in a text message last evening, 25 years ago today our lives changed for the better. Happy birthday, Jacob! Dad and I both had smiles - and agreed you're nuts - when those text messages came through last night. We love you bunches and you have indeed changed our lives in so many ways.

You've become an amazing young man but don't let that swell your head any larger. You're adventurous but cautious, spontaneous but tempered, gentle but tough, confident but reserved, and fun loving but well grounded.

We love you son and wish you the happiest of happy birthdays!

Happy Birthday Bro!

Oh my gosh, the time seems to be flying by. Wishing you the happiest of happy birthdays, Jeff. It was such a surprise when you called last week and it was great to catch up with you. You've given so much to so many over the years and you're such a fun-loving grandpa. Had to get in that little reminder that you're getting older. :) I love you so much and I'm so glad you are my brother. Enjoy.

Whose Corner?

pa-tri-arch/pe-tri-rk/
–noun
1. the male head of a family or tribal line.

Mike has been such an amazing husband and father and I am so grateful to have him in my life. Shortly after we married, Mike adopted my two older kids and together we have raised our children as one family. He has given so much of himself through scouting and camping, judging debate, coaching soccer and baseball, and doing all he could to love and support our family.

He has endured much during this past year or two, especially since the death of his own dad in December 2007. There is no doubt, when it comes to choosing corners, I'll be in his corner each and every time.

Another Uncle

The dreaded call came just a few minnutes ago, another of my uncles have passed away. Z had called just a bit earlier and told me Uncle Alfred had collapsed and was unresponsive at the campground. I knew when my phone rang again and I saw her name on the display that it was time, that she would say the words that are so hard to hear. He was pronounced dead.

I'll write more sometime but not now. Now is the time for quiet reflection.

Fun On The Fourth

Many years we've just watched the fireworks from here on the balcony but decided to go out to Lyman Lake and watch them closer to the source this year.


TJei had fun playing in the water and she spent some time playing with other little kids camped nearby.


Mia looked so cute in her little flower suit and she was having a lot of fun playing in the water and at the edge of the water.


Quentin had traveled to SJ for the holiday and it was good to spend that time with him and the girls enjoyed the time, too.


The young daughter of Jodie's friend, Betty, went with us to the lake, too. Her mommy was working and on-call with the other emergency workers. She is a cutie and together with TJei they had a lot of fun.


Mia had fun snuggling with her mommy and with others throughout the evening. She sat on Uncle Quentin's lap when the fireworks display started but ended up on mine about half way through.


Mike cut into the watermelon just before the fireworks started. It was so good!


The fireworks were launched from the lake shore this year instead of out on an island in the lake. There was an awesome, nearly full, moon setting a backdrop for the fireworks.


At the very end of the evening Miles stopped for a quick visit. We exchanged smiles and waves a couple times throughout the evening as he patroled the shoreline and campsites. It was sweet that he actually stopped for a minute to say hi and ask how everyone was doing. I'm so proud of his accomplishments and decision to come back to SJ. I know his dad is pleased to have his companionship again and his mom would be so proud of him.

It was a fun evening! :)

Happy Birthday, Metri!

Today is the seventh birthday of the cutest little guy ever! Demitrius, you mean the world to me and I hope your day is extra, extra special. You are a fun loving little guy (although not too little these days!) and I just love that sparkle in your eye when you are plotting your next antic. Your hugs and kisses on the cheek are the absolute best ever! You are such a wonderful big brother and you love your little sister so much. You are talented and you swim like a fish! I love you bunches and wish I could be there to share your special day. Have fun sugar.

Two Special Guys

Two of my nephews celebrate birthdays today. Dominic, the fellow who first made me an aunt, is six months younger than John and the two of them were quite the pair as youngsters. So very different from one another with Dominic's hairless round little head and John's full head of hair. They were best buddies and loved spending time together. I have so much enjoyed being an aunt! Dominic means the world to me and I hope he enjoys his special day. :)

Brad Michael also celebrates his birthday today. Oh what a cutie! That said, he's in his late twenties (27) but still our "cutie" at any age. I didn't have the time with Brad like I did with Dominic as youngsters but he holds a very special place in my heart, too. He is a hard worker and has a heart bigger than the moon. I love you fellow and hope that you too enjoy your special day.

Happy Anniversary

You two have been in my thoughts all day even though I've been on the go and unable to get to my 'puter to post my thoughts and well wishes. Clyde, Denise, wishing you all the best today and each day. Enjoy!

What a Turkey

Kelly did herself proud ... wasn't that a pretty bird? This was Kelly's first time cooking a turkey and she raised the bar for all of us! Her bird was not only picture perfect. it was scrumptious, too. Kelly deployed a little seasoning secret that I'd never seen or heard of before and it must have done the trick, that turkey was juicy and tasty. Yum. Along with typical veggies stuffing the belly cavity (onions, carrots, celery, seasonings) she packed a lemon in there. Uh-huh, a lemon. That was a new one to me. Whether it was the lemon or the basting ... it worked. That was one tasty bird.

John and Kelly ... thank you so much for inviting me and Jodie and the girls to have Thanksgiving dinner with your famiy. A special thanks to Kelly ... your passion for food is evident in the care and time you give to making meal time so delightful for your family and friends. Love you gal! I love both of you ... and Baylee, too!

Thank you!