The O's Have It

2012-01-31T14:17:00.000-07:00

Our house must be in the direct path of the air balloon routes. This happens fairly regularly. You can get the perspective of how close this balloon was to the house by looking in the upper right hand corner of the photo and you will see the edge of our roof with the Christmas lights up. Wayne had arranged for us to go in one of those for our anniversary a couple of years ago but the weather turned bad and we didn't get to go. It is still on my bucket list.

This is a photo as they flew over my head. LOVE IT!

Isabelle's Birthday

2012-01-24T19:00:00.001-07:00

My beautiful, smart and sweet grand daughter turned 11 in December and of course we had to have a party. She is 11 in 2011, 12 in 2012 etc. That's an easy way to remember how old she is.

Her Mama makes the cutest cakes

Where teens are concerned, you just have to grab and kiss or you will never get affection. Colett manages to do this often and I have to admit I have been known to do the same. When the grandkids come over, I won't let them by me until I have gotten a hug. Nick looks pretty OK with it though. Can I say I love this picture?

I even get a smile and a hug.

Make a wish Isabelle. At 11, I hope it is an easy one.

Happy birthday you amazing young woman.

Yarro Christmas

2012-01-14T11:27:00.001-07:00

My daughter and her family didn't get out their Chrsitmas cards this year but this is the picture. Aren't they the cutest family? I'm posting it so Wayne and all our extended families can see it.

Matt, Isabelle, Millie, Colett and Nick

It's a new Year

2012-01-04T22:19:00.001-07:00

OK, 2011, good by and shut the door behind you. I had some fun times with you last year but I am looking at 2012 with a little more hope than I found in you.

Good:     We had 3 trips to Wyoming that were very fun. I got to see my parents and siblings and some beautiful scenery. We traveled all over Montana, Wyoming and Idaho. We saw Yellowstone Park, Teton Park, the Bighorn Mountains and everything in between. I also got to be in the car with Wayne, Colett and Millie and visit with them for hours which we usually don't get.  I got to fish and actually caught some, I got to see my old friends and stay at their homes which I loved.

My friend from Florida, whom I hadn't seen in years, came for a visit.

Alex got better after being ill for several years. His surgery was very successful and he can eat like a normal kid again.

Shon got a promotion and new job as well as a lateral move to Hamilton, MT. He loves his work.

We revamped the garden into a cute box garden and we like to work together in the
yard.

Ned and kate are living with Mom and Dad so can help them in many ways and in turn Mom and Dad have been a good example to them and have helped them get their lives in order.

We got a new HDTV

We have a new grand baby on the way.

Matt got his first cost of living raise in years.

Bad : Amy was pregnant earlier in the year but lost her baby and Wes ended up having to deliver it. It was traumatic, sad and hard to take especially since she was extremely sick for so long and then had no baby to love.

Wayne had a stent put in, and 6 months later found out he may need another one. He had chest pains and was hospitalized but came home and was directed to see a cardiologist again.

I had several medical problems including chronic heart palpitations where I went to the hospital thinking I was having a heart attack (but it ended up OK), I had a cold that turned into a sinus infection that turned into an infected tonsil and neck gland that turned into bronchitis that lasted 2 1/2 months.  Added to that was a breast mammo, then ultrasound and then a 3 point biopsy where the doctor thought I might have breast cancer. It turned out to be a bad abscessed infection that nobody told me about and did not get treatment for until I changed doctors and started treatment after3 months of pain. It has yet to be healed.
The doctors can't seem to get my pituitary tumor regulated so I have been off and on my medicine which causes me weight problems, hair loss, eye problems and hormone problems.

The slow economy finally caught up to Wayne's business and the money is slower to trickle in.

Several friends and family members have had serious family problems which break my heart and I am helpless to help in any way.

Mom has not been doing well this year with several health problems and it saddens her that she's not mobile, can't see well and can't hear well any longer.

SO, my wish for this year is better health and healing options for all of us,  a healthy new baby girl in June, lots of commission checks, healing of families, lots of love, Shon's house selling so the family can join him, more hair, less weight and our health problems at a minimum. When I go over our blessings, they still outweigh the negatives so I won't complain much. Hello 2012, I'll be watching you.

Guess Where Santa Lives?

2011-12-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

Wayne and I were on a trip to Idaho last year. We were parked in a parking lot next to this car. I got out to take a photo of the license plate and the lady that owned the car was just coming out of the store and asked me why I was taking a picture of her car. She was a little concerned and I was a little embarrassed getting caught, but she told me her story. Her husband played Santa for 25 years and had passed away a few months before I took this picture. He loved children and loved being Santa. Let's hope the true spirit of Christmas did not pass with this lovely man. Now we know that Santa lived in Idaho during the summer.

Warning: Gross

2011-11-24T18:26:00.001-07:00

I had been watching HGTV. A contractor said there was a tool at Lowe's for under $3.00 that everyone should have. It is a flexible plastic strip with barbs going up both sides. He said you should poke it down your sinks and your tub drains every few months to clean out the hair. There are about 3 small openings in each drain that the strip will fit into. You are supposed to push it down the drain, wiggle it a little and pull up and it will bring up hair that you didn't even know you had down there. My sinks were not plugged or even running slowly, but now and then an odor would come up through the bathroom sink. I bought the tool, called "Zip It" and used it. OH MY GOSH!!!! It worked amazingly well as you will see. Granted, I hadn't cleaned out my drain in 8 years but... gross as it is... I will never be without it again.

If you have short hair this might not happen to you, but I think if I hadn't done this soon, we might have had a real plug that even a Roto-Rooter snake might have a hard time pushing through. Oh, and my tool was barely over $2.50.

Gourmet Dinner Group for October

2011-11-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

Gourmet dinner group was at our house this month. I don't have a big enough dining room for 12 so we used a church size table and a round one and extended into the living room just a bit. The long table had a black lace tablecloth and the small one had an orange one with spiders and webs on it. The decorations were small...mini pumpkins on candle sticks and a trick or treat glowing sign on the large table and a little witch brewing something on the small table along with an orange candle. We had skeleton napkins to top it off. The food was likewise Halloween themed.

For the meal we had:

SNAKE BITES

Wayne had grilled pork loin and fashioned it into the shape of a snake. I cut up a radish for the teeth and inserted red skittles for the eyes.

The Utley's brought

FUNERAL POTATOES

They were the best I had ever eaten and Jaymie offered us the recipe but we have yet to see it. Maybe she has to retrieve it from the catacombs.

Wayne also whipped up some potato rolls from my Mom's "dead" relative's recipe.

The Turners brought a Romain and avocado salad topped with "blood oranges". OK they were only mandarin oranges, but I needed it to sound scary.

The Welton's brought this beautiful selection.

I wish I had taken the lid off this yummy "DINNER IN A PUMPKIN" for the photo. It was a sugar pumpkin filled with potatoes, carrots, onion, ground beef, brown sugar etc. and baked right inside the pumpkin. When you scooped out your portion, you also scraped some of the inside of the pumpkin and the taste was amazing.

And last but not least we had "Death by Chocolate Cake" brought by the Ahlstrom's. It was so rich and creamy it really could cause death if you ate too much of it. DELICIOUS!!

Scott Bennett, Laura Turner, Susan and Paul Welton

Wayne, Joan, Rick and Laura Turner

Doug and Julie Ahlstrom and Jim and Jaymie Utley

Thank you all for coming and celebrating the holiday with us.

Oooooooooooooooooh!! BOO!!

2011-11-08T09:15:00.001-07:00

My favorite color is red. I love ribbon and string and here is my find of the summer. Colett and I went shopping in Lehi to a vintage store. This spool is about 8 1/2 inches tall and about 7 1/2 inches across at the bottom. That is a lot of string. What am I going to use it for? Whatever I want.....just to look at, wrapping brown paper packages, flying a kite, adding to home made cards, tying up flowers that want to droop over, and tethering the grand kids. Every once in a while you come across something that you just identify with for no particular reason. At $12.00 it was cheaper than a new pair of shoes and made me just as happy.

Gross Halloween Recipe

2011-10-21T19:58:00.001-06:00

I saw this on Pinterest. It is the grossest Halloween food idea I have ever seen. You stack up a bunch of straws...the kind with the bendable top..into a jar and make sure they are straight and tight together. Pour into each straw some Jello...purple/red combo and let set up. Let the straws drop out their treasures when they have set up and you have a bowl of what looks like earth worms to feast on. I can hardly look at the picture but it is a clever idea. I don't think even gross little boys would eat these.

Edible Earth Worms

Ingredients:
1 pkg. (6 oz) purple gelatin (raspberry or grape work well)
3/4 oz. unflavored gelatin
3 C. boiling water
3/4 C. whipping cream
green food coloring, as needed
100 plastic straws
Instructions: 1. In a medium, heat safe mixing bowl, stir together plain and flavored gelatin powders.
2. Pour boiling water over, stirring until gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. Allow gelatin to cool til only slightly warm.
4. Stir whipping cream into the gelatin mixture. Stir in green food coloring (you'll probably need 10 drops or more) until your gelatin gets that purpley-brown-grey color of earthworms.
5. With your 100 straws fully extended and snug in your chosen container, pour the gelatin mixture over the straws, filling the container.
6. Cover container and chill at least 8 hours. You can make them and store them this way up to two days in advance of your Halloween party.
7. Remove straws from their container (cutting or ripping a disposable container away is easiest).
8. With hot tap water running, place batches of 4-5 straws under hot running water for a couple quick seconds.
9. Remove "worms" from their straw casings, pressing with fingers. Set on waxed paper to set up.
10. Repeat until all worms are removed.
12. Chill, covered, on waxed paper at least 2 hours.
13. Serve in a chilled bowl, as pictured. Then watch all the kids gobble up this fun Halloween party food.

ThisTime of Year

2011-10-17T13:21:00.001-06:00

I love the autumn time of year. I love the colors, the foods, the cooler weather, the harvest and the promise of holidays to come. It's my favorite time of year and this Fall has been extremely beautiful and mild. I found this picture online and loved it. My thought was...how many pumpkin pies could be made out of these lovely squash? My mom used to make pumpkin pies, but she also made squash pies that were even better than the pumpkin. I miss those times and her pies. I need to get her recipe.

The Perfect Apple

2011-10-10T20:51:00.000-06:00

I went visiting teaching to Nicole's last month, and on the way out she was telling me that her apples were almost ready to can and maybe needed just a couple more days. I asked her if I could just pick one and she said yes. I reached in and randomly picked one. "They are Jonathan's she said". That is one of my favorites ...not too sweet, not too sour and so delicious with just a sprinkling of salt. When I got it home, I washed it up and shined it before I ate it. Whoa, wait, I didn't/couldn't eat this....not yet. It was the most beautiful apple I have ever seen. It was perfect in it's shape, perfect in it's redness and perfect in it's shine. It did not have a scratch, peck mark, or a blemish of any kind. It was like a mini work of art. When Wayne got home I showed it to him and he didn't even think it was real. It stayed in my refrigerator for over a week before I gave in and consumed the beautiful orb. It was as good as it looked. Sometimes all you need it a tiny miracle to make you remember the giver of all miracles.

Fashion Trends

2011-10-05T14:27:00.000-06:00

When I was younger (and much thinner) I followed the fashion trends every year and picked up several things that went along with that trend . It was fun, revved up the wardrobe, and with careful shopping, it didn't cost much. I like to look nice but really don't care much for the trends anymore. if I like it I'll wear it and if I don't, I won't. However, I have been going over the Internet sites and stores lately to see just what are the trends for 2011/2012. Some are fun and some are really ugly. The trend for Spring is cropped tops again. OH HOW I HATE THOSE. I couldn't wait until Brittney Spears fell from the spotlight because I was so tired of looking at muffin tops and belly buttons. Not only that, but 99% of the tummys that were bare shouldn't have been. Here is what Internet and TV shows say are the new trends for the year.

1. Anything with a 60's style to it. I lived through that once and the styles weren't all that cute except for maybe a couple of things. I didn't like the psychedelic colors but the brighter colors I did like.
2. Coats and sweaters with fur trim. I had that and liked it about 30 years ago. Remember Sony Bono's vests? I didn't like those, but my coat was pretty darn cute.
3. Boots, boots and more boots. Did that too and have some now. LIKE!
4. Dolmen sleeves on blouses. Didn't have that and still won't. They are fine on other people, but on me...no thank you. I look like Humpty Dumpty.
5. Ponchos. Been there, done that. I do like them though.
6. Scarves, pencil skirts and strappy shoes are still trendy. I like them all.
7. Animal prints are still big. I like some of them but don't own any.
8. Bright colored pants are really big this year. I don't own any but I do like them. Hot pink, yellow, bright blue, and red can be seen everywhere. I don't own any and probably won't. I did wear them in the 70's and loved them then.
9. Everything with polka dots. Now I can get on this trend. I love polka dots and have 2 sweaters with them. I will be happy to buy more.
10. Long skirts are back, especially peasant skirts. I always like them...still have a couple.
11. Trench coats and parkas. Like them both.
12. Color blocking..such as .wearing a red shirt with a gold skirt and a purple sweater.....all solids. It's OK.
13. Things that lace up such as shoes, corsets, dresses and belts. Hmmmm
14. Layering clothes in earth tone. I can do that.
15. Wedge shoes are still in style. I like them and they work on my poor broken foot. I can't wear high heels.
16. Shiny fabrics such as satin, etc. Wear it on top or bottom. I leave that to the young.
17. Big jewelry....it has been around a while and I like some of it but only own one chunky necklace.
18. Giant bright and gawdy prints. No thanks.
19. Jeans with holes all over them. No thanks again. Hope this trend ends soon. They will be even worse when worn with a cropped shirt. I especially don't think they are cute on anyone over 30.
20. Sweaters....love, love, love.

Friends

2011-10-03T12:25:00.001-06:00

I have a friend Marsha that lives in Florida. We were close in high school and did lots of things together along with our other friend Cindi. You could find us in Cindi's Mustang or Marsha's VW bug almost every night. Our lives revolved around boys, dragging main and food from the Rose Bowl drive in. We went to dances every week-end and they are good memories. Marsha has a daughter that moved to Utah and so had a good excuse to come. We had not seen each other for probably 30 years or more but she made her way to my house last week and we went to lunch. We just starting talking and caught up where we left off. She is a really good person and I'm so glad we got together. If the daughter stays here, it may happen more often now. Love you Marsha. I haven't seen Cindi in many years either and we need to remedy that. Our other good friends go to our little town celebration once in a while and I get to see them which always makes me happy. Friends, new or old, are a treasure.

Less Than Average Accomodations

2011-09-27T19:37:00.000-06:00

Last week hubby and I went to Montana and Wyoming for a business trip/wedding. We went through Yellowstone Park again and Teton National park and then proceeded to go to the Montana towns where he needed to go. Parts of the drive were exceptionally beautiful in Montana. We went to northern Montana and saw beautiful fields of grass and trees changing color. His business went well and since it was the end of September, we thought it wouldn't be hard to find a motel. WRONG! The oil pipeline being built had brought men from all over the country to a place that has jobs for everyone and the motels were full up for miles and miles. From Wolf Point to Glendive to Miles City they were full. After calling all around, we found a tiny, scary, dirty motel that had a room. We stayed here for the night and quickly got the heck out of there as early as possible the next morning.

Here is the bathroom window, peeling paint and plastic covering. The bottom window was covered but the top was clear and anyone outside could just peek in. I had to shut the shower curtain to use the bathroom.

This was the tub drain. Enough said.

Funny enough, the floor was dirty and stained and we would not walk around bare foot, but the sheets were clean (no bed bugs) and the counter was a cute 1950's tiled area that I kind of took a liking to. It was the most light I had all week to apply make-up. The house in front of the motel had a red light in the window. Hmmmm

We will take Colett's advise and call ahead for motel rooms the next time we pass this way.

Signs

2011-09-19T08:41:00.000-06:00

Signs of Fall have started around here.

1. The corn is done and the husks are drying in the garden, waiting for Wayne to put them on the front porch as part of the Halloween decorations.
2. Spiders are climbing on the windows and flies come in every chance they get. They know there time is almost done.
3. All the stores have their Halloween decorations up.
4. The bazaars have begun.
5. Wayne picked all the apples because we saw the robins fly into the tree and start their gorging.
6. We leave the windows open at night and it gets pretty cool before morning.
7. Our Grandson Nick has football practices and games all week long.
8. Our chorus group is practicing Christmas songs.
9. I'm bringing hoodies with me on my outings.
10. My neighbor's maple tree is turning red.
11. Roast turkey and stuffing are starting to sound really good.
12, General Conference is just 2 weeks away.
13. I'm actually getting a little tired of pulling weeds, deadheading flowers and picking beans.
14. I have already bought a few stocking stuffers.
15. My hummingbirds are thinking of leaving. Yes, I asked them.

A Poem

2011-09-16T09:59:00.001-06:00

I went to the doctor yesterday and he scheduled me for a mammogram and ultrasound. I have always had problems with mammograms not being able to do their job for me and then having to go back for another one and then an ultrasound. Why can't they just do one ultrasound and be done with it? I guess it's better to be safe than sorry. A friend in Cowley had a mastectomy last year and I was heart broken for her. Her sister Maurine wanted to make her feel good with a little humor and asked all her friends to write a limerick to help her see some humor in the situation. I wrote this one for Allison and her husband Pony. I know it seems a litttle irreverent but it was done with love.

They stood on her chest like a hill
giving Pony a veritable thrill,
They had always been there
neath her flowing red hair,
But now her bra they will have to faux-fill.

Everyone, go get your mammograms!!!

Wyoming

2011-09-02T22:35:00.000-06:00

This is a photo from trip # 2 to Wyoming this summer. It's on top of the Big Horn Mountains and on top of a big old rock that the family had to climb. From here, they could yell and hear their echoes a second later. They all said it was one of their favorite places and things to do. Ah.... open spaces, no people, family togetherness and the smell of pine trees. Click to enlarge.

Birds

2011-08-25T12:00:00.000-06:00

We went to Wyoming last week for our vacation. Wayne grew up in Lovell, Wyoming before cell phone towers so we didn't even know this one was there. To make it even more interesting, turkey vultures now call this tower home. Apparently they have been here for 20 years and we did not know it. This photo is taken from a very low spot so it's hard to get the scope of how big they are. They fly away for the winter and come back each spring. Lovell has enough road kill, dead cows, deer and elk to keep them well fed. It's kind of creepy and kind of wonderful to see them. Notice the guy on the left of the tower as he takes off flying. Enlarge the photo to really see it well.

Perfection

2011-08-22T12:39:00.000-06:00

Many things to me are absolutely wonderful.....people, music, movies, food etc. Few things are perfect and I don't expect them to be. But last night I found perfection. We picked fresh green beans from the garden. They were young stringless Bluelake pole beans.

I like most veggies raw, but not my green beans. I don't like them once they have been frozen either. I have tried that time and time again and they just don't resemble a fresh green bean in any way. I do like them canned, but for true perfection this is what you do. You put them in a pressure cooker while they are still fresh. Bring your cooker up to pressure, and cook exactly 3 minutes. Top them with a little real butter, salt, pepper and a tiny bit of Alpine seasoning. I had to close my eyes as I ate them to get the full effect. I could eat a bushel at one sitting. You need to get a pressure cooker...trust me, you do. Thank you God for a lovely garden.

The Second Time

2011-08-12T11:56:00.000-06:00

This is the second time it's happened. I have an aspen tree next to the deck and in front of my living room window. I really don't see how the reflection of the sky or bird can be on the window because it is shady behind the tree, but I was in the other room and heard a BAM , something had hit the window. I thought maybe a kid had thrown a ball. I didn't see anything at first but looked around and this little guy was sitting on the deck. He was too stunned to move but just stared at me for long time. I just went away and thought he needed time to recover. He did and flew away. A few minutes later....BAM again. Was he trying to commit suicide? He finally did recover and flew off again. It happened last year too but with a large robin. This one was a baby. Maybe it's" like father, like son". Are they both just stupid? Or do I need to fear for my life because they are trying to attack me?

On August 8th, 1969.......

2011-08-07T22:43:00.001-06:00

I feel sorry for anyone who does not have a man in their life that is as wonderful as mine. He is funny, playful and the most generous man I know. He is crazy about his kids, his grandkids and me. He is also a hottie and that is why I have stuck with him for 42 years. Yes, we were married when I was 15. wink! I love you Wayner. Happy Anniversary and may we have many, many more.

My favorite actor

2011-08-02T09:53:00.000-06:00

I don't follow actors very often and find most of them to be less than desirable in so many ways, but Hugh Jackman has been one of my favorites for quite a while, actually from clear back when he was on the first X-Men movie as Wolverine. There is just "something" about him. When he is on interviews he is funny, he is sweet and talks about his wife and kids a lot. He can sing like a dream, he dances, acts and can do it all like the original song and dance men from the 30's, 40's and 50's. Having said all that, I have yet to see many of his movies. I have not seen Kate and Leopold, Australia, Prestige or any of his other films. As a matter of fact, the X-Men is the only one I have seen. I have seen him perform on talk shows and award shows though and he is fantastic. So why do I like him so much? I just don't know why. Hmmmm

Watch out!

2011-07-21T15:07:00.000-06:00

I picked up my new prescription yesterday and thought I'd read through the info they include with it. As you may know, I have a tumor on my pituitary gland that I have taken medication for for the better part of 25 years. We switched to a new one that hasn't been available until recently. It's supposed to be better and with less side effects. This is what the info said:

Possible side effects are constipation, dizziness, headache, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, weakness, shortness of breath, swelling of hands or feet, trouble breathing, chest pain, itching or rash, depression, fainting, irregular heart beat, hallucinations, cough, or confusion. Warning: it also says that I may develop behavioral changes such as an increase in aggression, gambling or sexual urges. Well, if you happen to see me angrily headed to Las Vegas with a pimp in the car, call Wayne.

This Year's Flowers

2011-07-15T21:18:00.000-06:00

These are in my flower pots in 2011

I planted these Black Eyed Susan vines this year. They are so cute. The centers just look like polka dots but they are shaped more like a trumpet. So far they are growing about 6" a day. I have had to cut them back 3 times.

I thought these were so delightful and put them in planters on my deck. The tag said they bloom all summer. I got a few weeks out of them and then they went into hibernation. Aren't they amazing? I can't remember what they are. My fingers are crossed that they will once again give me a show.

Little yellow daisies are a happy, happy flower

Non-stop tuberous begonias like shade, and my deck table is the right spot for them. They are also one of my very favorite flowers. I know, I seem to have many favorites.

These little beauties bloom without fail and are one of the staples of my flower pots. They come in so many colors and are called Vinca.

African daisies are just abut the cutest flower around.

I also have the usual pansies, geraniums, petunias and primroses and zinnia.......yea, I live in a flower garden and I love it. When I die, don't put me in a fancy coffin, just a wooden box covered with flowers.

4th of July, 2011

2011-07-08T21:17:00.004-06:00

We had our traditional 4th of July at our friends (and Colett's in-laws), the Yarros, at their cabin at Wallsberg.

They had built the pond a couple of years ago, but this year it was stocked with trout which Wes, Wayne and I tried our hand at. I had two bites but didn't land one and the guys each caught one. I had never really gone to the back side of the cabin to see the architecture before, but it is very BIG and very beautiful.

Isabelle said she had been practicing to row in the swimming pool and by golly, she was amazing. She scooted around the pond with ease. Emerson hates dirt on his hands so after he got them dirty, he just held them like this.

Millie didn't know there was mud around the lake and ran into before she realized her shoes were caked with it. Notice her expression?

Matt and Colett all tanned from their Mexico vacation and from ~~laying, lying~~ sitting around the pool. I didn't show them my neon white legs.

Emerson's hair is generally not curly but the humidity from the lake made it curl up and he is showing me the mud he got in the boat. He didn't freak out and finally accepted that sometimes we do get dirty.

Colett and Nick. I had to click fast to get Nick. He is not a poser, but should be. Isn't he darling?

We have very few pictures of the 4 of us together because I'm usually the one taking the photos, but we got Wes to take this to prove that yes, we do all hang around together.

Wes is not with us on too many holidays because of his firefighting job in Park City, but for some reason, he is usually off for the 4th of July and we get to party together.

Besides dinner, fishing, dancing and fireworks, the Yarro's also set up bounce houses for the kids. E loves them.

Colett and I didn't know it at the time but we color coordinated for the picture.

Plaid is "in" as you can tell.

Emerson takes his turn fishing. The cottonwood trees had covered the pond in cotton so it was not easy fishing today. We will have to try another time.
We ended the night with some fireworks, pie and a little rain shower. It rained last year too. It seems a little odd for the desert in July but it wasn't bad and we had....once again....a great time.

YOO-HOO LAURA LOCEY....this photo is for you. It is Isabelle with Clark Gable's grandchildren Clark and Kalee Gable. Kalee was on the TV reality series with Paris Hilton. I don't know if I spelled her name correctly. Clark just filmed a movie in Italy and is ready to do another one. He has also done modeling and was on the cover of a cereal box when he was younger. Not name dropping here, I just did this for Laura because she is such a fan of Clark Gable and everything to do with him. Click on the picture to enlarge it and see if he looks anything like his Grandpa. I believe he is quite a bit taller than Clark was.

Happy Birthday America, I love you!!!

One of My Favorite Days

2011-07-07T13:31:00.000-06:00

It's National Chocolate Day. I think a lot of people will join in this celebration. I know I will.

2011-06-23T12:54:00.000-06:00

I went to the dollar store and grabbed this cleaner. Of course it's "Mr. Clean". This was the Spanish version though, and now I realize I don't know how to use it. I can't read the Spanish instructions. Do you dilute it or use it full strength? I speak no Spanish at all and I'm pretty sure the title "Limpio" across a strong man's chest would not fly in the US.

Let's Talk About the Weather

2011-06-17T13:01:00.000-06:00

We have had the craziest weather (as have other parts of the country) but since I live here, I will talk about here. I lost two of my rose bushes, the big sturdy kind that Utah is usually kind to. Several of my other rose bushes have parts that died but made it through and several of my neighbors lost roses too. I replaced two of them with the roses shown above. I finally have 2 hibiscus coming up, but the third I am worried about. My little Dr. Seuss tree is not looking good either. Not only did we have the cold and wet Spring, but it fluctuates in temperature so often that the plants don't know what to do. Now to top it all off, I just checked my cherry tree. The birds are the thing I usually worry about, but there are a million teeny black bugs all over the leaves sucking out the life blood. I hate chemicals but I hate bugs more, so I need to find a spray for those. Wayne replanted the beans because some just didn't come up, but when he looked through the dirt, there were no bean seeds. Maybe the birds really did have something to do with those. It's almost summer and it sure feels like we got cheated out of a Spring. Time goes too fast anyway, but it really seems like this one is going way too fast and soon I will be harvesting. That is if anything comes to fruition.

For the Birds

2011-06-14T19:59:00.000-06:00

I found some of these in the yard yesterday. I must have a good "food mix" for the birds this year.

Soul in Soles

2011-06-07T13:16:00.000-06:00

Remember when I did a blog post about the bottom of my shoes?

The O's Have It: Search results for soles of shoes

Well.....

I bought a new pair of shoes. When I got them, I didn't look at the soles, but when I was getting ready to wear them, I noticed that this shoe bottom is the best one yet.

Mountains and sunshine and a river below, with a waterfall under the river

and leaf laurels along the edge. Have you looked at the bottoms of your shoes yet? I need to research and see if there are people whose only job is to design shoe soles.

May Days, May Days

2011-06-01T13:04:00.000-06:00

I have mentioned before that May is a huge month for us. We celebrate all month. Colett's birthday is on the 4th, Amy's on the 9th and Mother's day is always on or very close to Amy's birthday.

This month they were all just a few days apart so we celebrated all three on May 8th, Mother's Day.

Amy was not feeling well that day and didn't want pictures taken , but you have to seize the moment so memories won't be lost. Besides, she never looks bad.

Colett turned 40. I don't know how that happened since I am still so very young and so is she.

Wayne got me flowers and this nifty lounge chair so that I can sit outside and look over my queendom.

I took several pictures and couldn't figure out why the stripes kept glowing in the photos. I finally....duh... got it. They are reflective. I'm not sure why. I don't plan to sit in the middle of the road, but at any rate, I love it and have used it several times. As soon as the weather shapes up, I will use it more.

Amy made this cute 'Holder" for Colett. It has pockets so you can put it under your cushion or mattress to hold your "whatevers"....Craft Supplies? Remote Controls? Secret Snacks?

Amy got me a cute painted box that contained a lavender plant, hand tool, gloves, and plant markers painted with chalkboard paint so that I can label my plants.

No, this is not a dress that I m wearing. It's a cute apron that Amy made me for Christmas. Colett gave me this hanging plaque with a mason jar attached that I can use as a candle holder, or flower vase. I am using it as a vase right now and it's

so fun to look at.

Flowers from the hubby

Brownies instead of cake for Amy who turned 35.

Emerson always loves to help with the blowing out ceremony.

In two weeks we will party again for Wayne and Wes.

2011-05-27T14:14:00.000-06:00

You hear on the news about all the flooding in distant states, and my heart goes out to them, but this one really hit home. These are the little towns around Montana close to where I used to live and traverse.

Each day, it seems to get worse. I am sad. The photos were posted on Facebook by a friend of mine. Thanks Ro Hein. The little cafe where we used to eat when we played golf is all but completely under water.

2011-05-23T16:32:00.001-06:00

My friend Laura grows lilacs all around her home. Each year she asks people to come and get some so that we can enjoy them along with her. She usually brings me some in a tin can. I don't transfer them to a vase because I like the country look of them. Unfortunately they don't last long so I sniff them while I can and it takes me back to my childhood. Mom has a lilac tree and so did the neighbors where I used to pick and pick them and then haul them in a wagon full of water trying to sell them. We probably never sold any but it was a fun time and the fragrance is forever in my mind. Thank you Laura for sharing.

Birthdays Galore!

2011-05-18T09:42:00.003-06:00

May is a month full of anniversaries and birthdays in our family. It goes like this:
May 1: May Day (I usually try to get flowers on this day)
May 4: Daughter Colett'
May 5: Brother Greg
May 6: Daughter and SIL Matt and Colett's anniversary
May 9: Daughter Amy
May 10: Sister-in-law Debi
May 14: Good friend Colleen
May 18: Niece Kymbre'
May 20: Hubby Wayne
May 21: Niece Jem and Son-in-law Wes
May 23: Nephew Matt
May 25: Grandson Alex
May 30: Memorial Day

Then throw in a few weddings, graduations and Cinco de Mayo and what a fun (and expensive) month it is.

Saturday we hope to party hardy with the men of the hour Wayne and Wes. It's tradition now with Wayne's BBQ ribs, and Jello cheesecake (his favorite dessert). This year Shon and all his family are here for the week so it will be even more special. Happy, happy birthday to two loving, sweet and generous guys.

Wayner (yes, we call him that)

Wes

Gourmet Dinner Club for April 2011

2011-05-11T11:44:00.001-06:00

Gourmet Dinner Group

April 25th, 2011

Doug and Julie Ahlstrom

Jamie and Dave Harper

Doug and Julie Ahlstrom hosted dinner group this month along with the help of their daughter Jamie and son-in-law Dave. The theme this month was German food. Dave had served a mission in Germany so was willing to help out by cooking some authentic German fare. I have to admit that I have had little German food in my life, and the little I did have was not my favorite. I have had German potato salad that was very vinegary and that I did not like, sour kraut (which I did like) and brats which were so-so. Well this dinner turned my taste buds around, and I have a new appreciation for it and hope to try more things in the future.

                                  These are German dumplings called Kloesse.
          They are very large, not like the tiny dumplings your Grandma put in her soup.

Who knew that asparagus is a German staple. I didn't, and I LOVE asparagus.

This is thinly sliced beef layered with honey mustard, bacon and onions, then wrapped around a dill pickle. It is called Roulladan. Dave also said that Germans use gravy on lots of things, so he whipped some up to pour over these and the dumplings. These are really tasty.

Mmmmmmmmmmmm fruit goes with anything.

Paul and Susan Welton

These were puffs of Susan's home made bread dough stuffed with ground meat ( Paul used turkey) with onions, cabbage, salt and LOTS of pepper. They are called Bierocks. I am a black pepper fan so they were just perfect for me.

Jaymie and Jim Utley

Jaymie made the German potato salad. It was nothing like the potato salad I had tried before that was so vinegary. It was delicious with just a hint of sour and lots of bacon. I am now a fan.

Wayne and I always work together as a team when we cook. I am the prep cook and I chop, chop, chop and he does the actual cooking.

For this month we made Bratwursts on a bed of caramelized onions and peppers.

I am not a brat fan because they are always so greasy, but I boiled them first and then Wayne grilled them so that much of the fat was released. If you are a fat fan, then don't boil first and you will love them.

Brats

Scott and Lori Bennett

Strudel

Last but certainly not least is the dessert made by Lori. They are apple Strudels, one with almonds and one without. Lori also made the sauce to pour over it. It was like liquid pudding and absolutely delicious.

We missed the Turner's this month so you won't get to see what color of hair she has this time. Wink!

2011-05-08T14:24:00.002-06:00

You might have a pretty great Mom, but she couldn't be as good as mine.

Mine raised 6 children...4 naughty boys and two naughty girls. We all love each other and are close but we did give Mom some hard times as we grew up. I think we are pretty good people now, but I know how many nights she spent on her knees in prayer just to get us to adulthood. She and Dad must have agreed to take on spirits in heaven that were a little hard headed and stubborn and agreed to try to get us back to our Father in Heaven. I think those prayers worked. But don't stop Mom those prayers Mom, we will always need them.

Happy Mother's Day, you are the best!!

Colett's Big Birthday

2011-05-04T10:16:00.000-06:00

I was in the hospital 40 years ago today. I was worried about giving birth and how I could be a mother of two at only 20 years old. I had had a baby almost exactly 13 months earlier and was not sure I could handle another baby so soon. Then Colett was born and my heart melted. Now I had a little girl that would forever change my life for good. She was so sweet I couldn't even put her down, and she stayed on my lap for 5 years until her sister Amy was born and I needed the room for her. Shon may have gotten short changed, but he was such an easy going and sweet little tot that he didn't seem to mind. Colett Loraine turns 40 today. It seems just like yesterday sometimes.

Colett....we call her Lettie or Lett

with her babies Isabelle, Millie and Nick

with her hubby Matt

with her sister Amy

her last birthday in the 30's

getting the squeeze from Daddy Wayne

With her sister Amy and her Mom...me

Getting ready for dessert

The beauty queen.... which she truly is

Happy 40th Birthday lovely Lett

Favorites #7

2011-04-28T15:49:00.000-06:00

I love Costco's Kirkland spices, especially the vanilla. I have gotten vanilla from Mexico before but I didn't like it that much. I do like Watkins brand vanilla a lot but for the buck, you can't beat the flavor and price of Kirkland's pure vanilla. (Obviously I have used it a lot and spilled on the label....Oops!) I also love the cinnamon and just about any of the other spices. I actually had a couple of other brands in front of me and did a taste test of several of them side by side and Kirkland won for me. The Italian seasoning is very good and the balsamic vinegar is excellent. You will also get about twice as much product for your money as the little bottles at the grocery store. If you don't have a membership, go with someone who does and stock up.

Favorites #6

2011-04-25T14:55:00.000-06:00

My facial moisturizer is Neutrogena's oil-free moisturizer. It won't clog pores, is hypoallergenic, alcohol and fragrance free, contains SPF 15 and is non-greasy.

The Vitamin E Skin Care Cream is "Fruit of the Earth" brand and can be found at Walmart at the back of the store. Because it is so cheap and never advertised, it's not out front. It contains aloe vera, sunflower seed oil, collagen, elastin, gylcerin, and vitamin E among other things. It is best on dry legs, feet and hands, bit It is also good on your face in the really dry areas.

Fruit of the Earth Vitamin E Skin Care Cream 4 oz Cream - Swanson Health Produ

Neutrogena - Oil-Free Moisture SPF 15

Favorites #5

2011-04-22T11:48:00.000-06:00

I had used Windex and also copycat store brands with the color and smell of Windex for years. I have tried making my own window cleaner, used newspapers etc. and they are work pretty well, but about 13 years ago I found Sprayway Window cleaner at Costco and that is my go to cleaner now. When it first came out I was intrigued by it's 50's style label. (A graphic of a lady wearing a dress and apron.) Some of the cans still have that label, but at Costco now, they changed it to this version. The product is the same and has been for 60 years. It has a clean, good smell, it comes out like a frothy, thinned down version of shaving cream so doesn't drip and cleans very well with few if any streaks. It does not contain ammonia so you can use it on porcelain, chrome and mirrors. A can goes a long way and you can get a 3 pack at Costo but Target and other stores carry it too. It varies so much in price from place to place. Target's is about $2.40 a can. Some places charge almost $5. Go figure. It makes washing windows a little less painful.

Favorites #4

2011-04-20T09:50:00.000-06:00

I love make-up. I feel like an artist when I apply even if it's only a little, but I have to have just the right product especially Where mascara is concerned. I have tried sooooooooo many.
I need waterproof for church ( Did I mention I have a tendency to cry at tender things?) and regular for most other days. I bought Avon's wash off waterproof. It does a good job. I bought a Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof and just don't like it's wimpy little brush or the way it coats the lash. Colett turned me onto Colossal Volume Express by Maybelline and I like it the best. The sculpted brush gets all the lashes, even in the corner and it won't come off unless I use eye make-up remover. My favorite regular mascara is also Colossal volume Express. It has the same brush and doesn't dry out as quickly as some. I have fairly long lashes but they are not really thick so it works to plump up the lashes a bit. I have tried Prescriptives, Avon, Revlon, Estee Lauder and others that haven't worked as well for me. I like the one called Falsies (also by Maybelline) and it works well but has the little wimpy brush that almost feels like it will break if you use it too often. If I use the Colossal brush in the Falsies tube, then it works pretty well. For me, I don't want the "almost can't tell it's there" mascara, or the mascara that thickens so much it looks like spider legs hanging from your eyes..ewww... but I like something that extends, thickens a little and stays put until I take it off. That's what Colossal does for me. I just might mention that no matter what mascara I have, I take the brush and bend it into a arch before I use it. It makes applying easier.

My Favorites #3

2011-04-18T09:36:00.000-06:00

I don't have kinky, frizzy hair, but it does get really dry and fly-away at times. I found myself constantly spraying my hair brush with Static Guard which didn't always work. I found this product at Wal-Mart and thought I'd give it a try. It is John Freida Frizz-Ease. The label says it is the "SECRET WEAPON", a flawless finishing cream which instantly camouflages imperfections, leaves dull, dry hair shiny, soft and supple. Use anywhere, anytime. Quite a label huh? It sucked me in. You apply it to dry hair by putting a small amount in your palm and then rubbing it in your hairs, especially at the dry ends. Guess what? It works.

My Favorites #2

2011-04-15T11:38:00.000-06:00

Aleen's Tacky Glue.

I have used and liked all of her glues but this is may favorite. It works on just about everything. If you leave it out for a while, some of the moisture evaporates and it becomes super tacky glue (which she also sells). We have used it on frames, wood trim, toys, fabric, scrapbooks and cards, etc. I had one bottle of her super tacky glue that came in a jar instead of a bottle and when that was gone, I poured the regular tacky glue into it so I that can use it with a craft stick if I need to. It's much easier than trying to pour it out through the little pointed tip when more is needed.

Some of My Favorite Things #1

2011-04-12T12:14:00.000-06:00

During the next couple of weeks I am going to tell you about some of my favorite things.

I had asked Wayne (as long as he was at the grocery store) to pick me up some cotton squares that I use to clean or to put toner on my face. I am used to using the "all cotton" squares that have lines across the front and are less than two inches square and cheap. They are OK and do the job. I have also used the round ones that don't say "all cotton" and they actually hurt when I used them. When Wayne came home he had picked these up for me. They are "all cotton" and are 2 3/4" square, textured on the front, have a double layer and are sewn around the edges so they don't fall apart when you use them. I haven't looked but they are probably twice the price as the ones I generally use. They are wonderful. I can tone my face and neck and they don't fall apart. They are soft and I feel like I am using a spa worthy product. I will ask him to pick them up for me again so I don't have to see the price. I am cheap like that....having something in common with the little cotton squares.

Wednesday, April 6th, 2011

2011-04-06T22:41:00.000-06:00

On this date 41 years ago, my son Shon was born. He was, (and is) one of the nicest guys you will ever meet and I love him dearly. Happy birthday Shon. I still love those baby blue eyes!!

Beautiful Spring Day

2011-04-03T15:19:00.000-06:00

~~It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, no........~~

~~I looked out the window and what did I see, Popcorn popping on the apricot tree, no.......~~

Oh what a beautiful morning, Oh what a beautiful day, Yea that one fits even if it doesn't look like spring.

So is this what Spring looks like these days?

My front door

The Deck

The Aspen trees

The Front of the house

The low clouds

Gourmet Dinner Group for March

2011-03-29T10:07:00.009-06:00

This month, instead of everyone bringing part of the dinner, Paul chose to cook it all and have us just contribute monetarily. That was fine with all of us, as Paul is a wonderful cook. He has gourmet taste buds and was willing to share his favorites with all of us, and we were not disappointed. The items on the menu were varied and many.

We started out with apricots stuffed with goat cheese. I have to admit that I really don't like goat cheese. I have tried and tried it in many things and many ways, but it's just one of those things that I never acquired a taste for. The apricots were good though. Sorry Paul, but they we so pretty.

Then out came the stuffed grape leaves. I don't know exactly what they were stuffed with, but a rice and lamb mixture maybe. Let me know Welton's. They were very good.

You can't have a meal without bread can you? It was delicious with fresh shaved Parmesan cheese.

Homemade tamales with.......

fresh homemade guacamole. Both were outstanding.

Beef Tenderloin was my favorite. It was truly so tender and rare, was atop a bed of onions and was topped with a blue cheese sauce. It was cooked to perfection.

Another delight was this chicken dish on a bed of rice and topped with his home made sauce/salsa. I should have paid more attention to all the ingredients but it had onions, peppers balsamic vinegar and other things. I guess I spent so much time looking and eating that I neglected to concentrate on the ingredients. Sorry Paul.

Maybe my favorite thing was smoked polenta with a balsamic vinegar/chipoltle glaze on top. I didn't get a photo of it because it was gone before I could get my camera out. He made the polenta, flattened it and cut out rounds as if he were cutting out sugar cookies. He grilled it on the grill so it had a little smokey flavor. Yum, yum, yum.

Doug and Julie

Scott and Lori

Susan and Paul.....see Susan, you never take a bad photo

Rick and Laura....see Laura, it's hard to get a good photo of you but you are so darling so I keep on trying

Wayne and Joan

Jim and Jaymie

Next month...German cuisine???

Life is not Always Easy

2011-03-17T11:48:00.002-06:00

My beautiful daughter Amy had a miscarriage today. Actually, the baby died inside of her a couple of weeks ago and she will have surgery but will have to wait until the baby comes on it's own. It could be tonight or next week. She was about 4 months along and we are all very saddened by this occurrence.

I can really feel empathy for her because I have had two miscarriages myself. One was especially hard because I was about 5 months along and 2 of my sisters-in-law were due at the same time. Now they would have babies together and I would be left out. I mourned for a long time for this lost baby. It was not a fetus, not a pregnancy, but a baby.

Amy had Hyperemesis Hyperemesis gravidarum - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
which meant she has been very, very sick for these past few months but we kept saying just get through this and it will be worth it. Now their (our) dream is gone. Some of the things people thoughtlessly say are " oh, you can have another", or "it's for the best, it was probably not right", "it was God's will", "get over it, it wasn't a baby yet". Even if some of the things are true, they should never be said to the parents. Instead say, "I am sorry", "I love you", " I will help you with the housework, food and other children so you can rest", "take the time you need to mourn", "we care", "I will keep you in my prayers", "I am here".

Losing a baby is hard on the husband too as he tries to be strong and not show too much emotion in front of his wife. He has lost this dream too.

One thing I do know from my experience is that it can make you stronger. Or, if you let it, it can pull you away from people and from God's love. I had some wonderful people in my life to help. Amy and Wes do too. They are strong and will get through this with care and love from all of us.

Today

2011-03-14T15:01:00.001-06:00

Today is National " Pi "Day. Are you Excited?

On March 14, 2015, at both the AM and PM hours, the date

will read 3/14/15 at 9:26:53.589. It's the most accurate

pi day that many people on earth alive today will ever see!

The short version of Pi is 3.14, and today is 3/14

It's also Albert Einstein's birthday. I am sure that he would have understood what that means.

It's also National Potato chip day. Now, I get that! Give me the sour cream and chive and the cheddar and onion ones. No Pringles please. Wayne was at their plant and watched how they were made. Let's just say before they are formed and baked, the dough is gray and they are made from all the potatoes that couldn't quite cut it as real potato chips.

2011-03-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

Last year, this is what I found under my deck. I was in awe of the pattern of life as I watched the hatching, the growth and the good-by flight. I was sad when they left. I am hoping some little bird will make a nest outside my bathroom window this year so I will have a "bird's eye view".

Spring officially starts on the 20th of this month so I am going to watch for amazing things to happen in the yard again. It has started already with the blooming of my pussy willow. Pussy willows are amazing things. They start out with the little toes and then yellow flower burst from the toes and then the pretty green leaves appear to last all summer. I am going to really stop and smell the roses more often this Spring, (this year) and maybe, just MAYBE, even appreciate the delicate blossom of a weed, that if it were not so prolific, might even be considered pretty just before I rip it from the ground.

When He Comes Again

2011-03-08T09:14:00.001-07:00

Isaiah 11:6 The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.

I am a major animal lover and find myself drawn to almost all of them with the exception of maybe the snake. My daughters and I were talking Sunday about how nice it will be when Christ comes again and there is amity between man and the animals. I will be right in there to hug a panda bear, a tiger or maybe even this guy, although he has a face that only a mother could love. I am pretty sure I will be able to go visit the animals in heaven because it wouldn't be a real heaven without them, especially my long gone dogs.

2011-03-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

We did have some good supervision

This is what my house looked like for weeks. I am a (little bit) of a neat freak and it drove me crazy but I had no choice. I wanted my living room, dining room, hallway and kitchen painted. We had to do most of it on weekends when Wayne had time, and because Amy was here most of the time and because she was so sick, we didn't want the paint fumes to make her more sick.

All of the upstairs of our home was originally painted in an oil based paint. Who does that any more Mr. Home Builder? All of the upstairs was painted the same color....flesh. Wayne called it nude. It wasn't horrible but just didn't ever look really good with anything. The ceilings and walls were all the SAME color and I just couldn't take it any longer. I have an artist's heart and love color, so after weeks of looking at paint samples at every hour of the day to see how the light played off the samples, I finally chose my colors. Because of the oil paint EVERYTHING had to be primed first and several areas needed a second coat. Let me just say, it was soooo much work. I did almost all of the taping off with a little help from Wayne and Wes. With our architectural elements it was tough. I went through 4 rolls of painter's tape. Then I helped Wayne by doing a little bit of the cutting in, but Wayne did all of the painting. The ceilings were the worst, especially the high ones, and I have a feeling the next time I want it done we will be checking out the yellow pages. Was it worth it? Yes, to me it really was. I now live with a golden tan living area and a subtle green kitchen. I kept my one rusty barn red wall. I will post pictures when I am through putting stuff back up where it belongs if I can just remember where it goes.

A Wacky Wednesday Birthday

2011-03-02T08:13:00.001-07:00

Today is Dr. Seuss' birthday so it must be Wacky Wednesday also. My grandson got the "Wacky Wednesday" book a few months ago (he is 3) and every time he reads it or even talks about a palm tree in a toilet he bursts out laughing. Then he tells me about how the table legs on the table in the book are WACKY. He is enthralled with this book. When I first got married, my little brother Greg missed me and would call and read to me over the phone. His choice was "Hop on Pop". That was 40 years ago. Who hasn't read the book or seen the cartoon of the Grinch who stole Christmas? My other grandchildren used to laugh at some of the other books that Dr. Seuss has written, and Wayne used to fix green eggs and ham on Saint Patrick's Day. Some of our kid's friends relish that memory. Dr. Seuss has been a household name for many, many years. Take a minute and sing happy birthday to him today. Our lives would not have been so fun or WACKY without him.

Check out the other things he has done: Dr. Seuss - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

2011-02-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

1st photo

5 minutes later 2nd photo getting ready to turn the corner

3rd photo and it is out of the hall and into the guest room

We have had some crazy weather lately, and with it cloudy skies and moments of sunshine . It was finally a sunny day, and as I was walking through the hall the other I noticed the light reflecting through the wooden rail of the stairs and onto the wall. I have lived in this house for 8 years and have never seen this before. It was really interesting to watch as it moved across the wall and then turned the corner to reflect the image into the guest room in less than 10 minutes. I guess when you are indoors a lot, you take your pleasure where you can get it, and I loved this little moment in time.

2011-02-19T20:12:00.001-07:00

Last night was the Ostler turn to host gourmet dinner club. We were in the middle of painting the inside of the house and taking care of our sick, pregnant Amy and Emerson so we elected to go to the UVU culinary arts restaurant called "Greg's" instead. The cuisine theme was the "Southern United States". I was a little nervous because they didn't post the menu and when we got there I had a right to be. The appetizers were great, the salads fun, and soups and rolls delicious but the main entrees to choose from were: Alligator, Frog Legs, Catfish, Pulled Pork, or Jambalaya.

Now I did not want a full course of any of them except pulled pork, so that's what I got. My friend Susan shocked me (first for even coming because she is a health nut), and second for ordering the frog legs. Guess what?.....She liked them.

Paul and Susan

These were the frog legs. The red in the top of the plate were dried beets and Wayne tasted them and said they were really good. Do they taste like chicken? Not really. More like pork to me but with a very tiny bit of fish taste.

Paul had the Jambalaya. It was spicy and contained everything but the kitchen sink. He said it was really good. I had a taste and it was, but a little too spicy for me.

This was the brave couple for the night. Doug had the frog legs and Julie had the alligator. They liked them so I had a taste of both. Really, they were both pretty good. I just couldn't get my mind around wanting a whole dinner of either one. The idea stills creeps me out a little.

This is the alligator dish.

Lori had the pulled pork and Scott had the catfish. Safer and good.

This is the catfish dish. Isn't it pretty? Half the fun of eating here is the beautiful presentation. Click to enlarge this one.

This is Rick and Laura. I took 5 pictures of them and Laura would not give me a good shot so this is the one I'm using and I think it's cute. Her eyes are closed but how fun she is, so this one fit her personality. I think Rick had the catfish and Laura had the pork.

This was one of the desserts of the night. Fresh made vanilla bean ice cream and pecan pie. I think there was bourbon flavoring and chocolate in it too. It was delicious.

I forgot to take a photo of the pork but it included greens and good old mashed potatoes.

Wayne had the catfish.

Several of us had the begniets with fruit and whipped cream. They were really worth waiting for.

Scott had the cinnamon bread pudding with the vanilla bean ice cream.

By the time we got to the dessert we were all pretty full. Some take out boxes were part of our fun night.

Some of the other things we all tried were shrimp with grits, quail, watermelon/watercress salad with citrus dressing, sweet potato/ham salad, and some kind of little fried fish appetizer.

We also had artichoke spread on a baguette, ham and bean soup, and creole onion soup. I had major indigestion last night. We didn't finish until 9. My old system usually doesn't eat past 8. Would I do it again? Yes! I'd like to try Italian night or French night or Mexican night or.........

2011-02-15T10:20:00.000-07:00

Red roses signify love. Wayne gives them to me every Valentine's Day.

I accept them at face value...he loves me.

Red cherry pie and a red Valentine represent love. I accept them at face value....he loves me. I wait every year for Costco to get in their cherry pie for President's Day. You can't get cherry pie in very many places any longer unless you just buy a frozen pie. This one tastes like homemade. For one week a year I will forgo the usual breakfast items and have pie for breakfast (and maybe lunch). It's OK, I will take a vitamin.

Wayne and I have been together for 44 years. We haven't been married that long, but I met him 44 years ago. I have friends younger than that. We really did just click when we met and he waited for me to (almost) grow up before we said "I DO". I couldn't have met a kinder, more generous man or a better father and grandpa. Lucky me. I heart you Wayne!!

2011-02-13T16:27:00.000-07:00

There are so many people in this world that I love. My hubby is my soul mate and my best friend, my children and their spouses are the absolute best, my grandchildren are right there in the middle of my heart, my parents, brothers and sister and their families, friends, ward family, neighborhood, old friends and school mates, my home townies, cousins, aunts and uncles, and mentors. Am I blessed or what? I know it sounds corny and rather like a sappy card but it's true. Happy Valentines to all of you. I truly love you and my life is better because of you....you know who you are, and if you don't I'm tellin' you now!

Word of the Day

2011-02-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

I get the word of the day online and I have been getting it for a few years now. Many of the words are archaic, some are just words I have never heard of and some are dumb words that you would never use in place of a better one, but here is one word I like. It just sounds good coming out of your mouth. I would have pronounced it Day-dul had they not shown the way to pronounce it. Our language is so crazy sometimes.

daedal \DEE-duhl\, adjective:

1. Complex or ingenious in form or function; intricate.
2. Skillful; artistic; ingenious.
3. Rich; adorned with many things.

Example:
Most Web-site designers realize that large image maps and daedal layouts are to be avoided.

I need to use it a few times to incorporate into my psyche.

The book I just read had daedal chapters that kept me interested.
When I was soldering my cow tags, the daedal schematic was sitting right next to me.
The daedal freeway system is a challenge to maneuver.

When I went to spellcheck, daedal was flagged as being spelled wrong. I guess we will call this word archaic, one I have never heard of and maybe a little dumb. The computer doesn't know this word and in a month, I probably won't either. Sigh!

All Aboard

2011-02-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

It's not even Christmas, but yesterday the Polar Express rolled through my home led by E the conductor. You will have to click to enlarge and see who was riding the train. God bless them every one.

The Poser

2011-02-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

My little doe-eyed granddaughter Millie is a poser. Her Mama used to be a scrapbooker and when the camera came out, she knew her duty and struck her pose with a big smile. It continues to this day and I get the biggest kick out of it. You will notice that the head is either tilted to one side or the other, rarely ever straight. It becomes her though, and she is always ready when I have my camera out and need a new photo of her. Isn't she the cutest thing?

The Rodent

2011-02-02T07:29:00.001-07:00

The groundhog is just a rodent that is related to the squirrel. Cute as he is, why do we celebrate him today? And, why does he always see his shadow? Keep that little monster in his cage or just ignore him so we won't know that we have 6 weeks left to shiver and cuss about the weather. What does a silly rodent know anyway? If you want to have some fun with the kids today, look here.

About Groundhog Day - Groundhog Day

and here

Groundhog Day for Kids & Teachers - FREE Presentations in PowerPoint format, F

Surprise

2011-01-28T10:09:00.003-07:00

I was cleaning my craft room yesterday. I have a wooden box in there where I keep CD cases. The lid was raised up a little which is unusual because the CD's fit perfectly. When I opened it up...SURPRISE....the CD cases were gone and in their place was all of my scrapbook recyclable papers and on top that was Amy's underwear. I burst out laughing. I don't know what went through my 3 year old grandson's head at the moment he was putting this all together but it sure gave me my laugh for the day. I will ask him the next time I see him, and Amy....you did bring undies with you the last time you stayed. If you have been looking, I know where they are.

Fozzie's Mini-Me

2011-01-25T11:57:00.001-07:00

The Real Deal

My dog Fozzie needed a haircut very badly. I had neglected to do it because it had been so cold outside this winter. His poodle fur does not protect him from the cold. He got a little coat for Christmas so I decided it was about time. I cut and cut and cut and had enough fur to make another dog. I looked at the pile and proceeded to make him a mini-me. Hi little Fozzie. He wasn't impressed. Does he have no paternal instinct in him?

The real impostor

Creme Brulee

2011-01-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

Mmmmmmmmmmmmm

If you see this guy around, tell him that you heard he is an amazing cook.

If I have to have one, I like to prolong my birthdays as long as possible. Saturday Wayne took me shopping for a new purse and shoes, Sunday we had my family birthday party, Monday I had lunch with my favorite ladies and a crab dinner, Tuesday I got cards from my Mom and brother, Wednesday...uh nothing, Thursday my friend Rick brought me creme brulee. Now this is no ordinary creme brulee. This is the best creme brulee I have ever tasted. It is as smooth as butter and so flavorful. It has just a hint of orange and the top isn't too sugary....it's just right. This has become a tradition for us. I'm not sure I remember exactly how it started but he has been bringing it to me for several years now. Several other ladies have asked how I rate. Even my good friend Laura, (his wife) says she doesn't get it on her birthday. I don't know how I rate either ladies, but I don't look a gift horse in the mouth. It is my favorite dessert in the world and I only get it about twice a year. If it sounds like I'm brown nosing so that he will do it again next year, well you are right. Whatever works. Thanks a bunch Rick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are my birthday hero. You should wear a cape.

I Changed My Mind

2011-01-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

I had a hallmark birthday yesterday and was not happy about it. I have never had a birthday bother me before. I turned 30 with glee, 40 was wonderful, 50 was fine but 60???? I was mad, mad, mad. Then I got a couple of phone calls. A friend from Montana (age 57) passed away in a diabetic coma, another dear friend and sister-in-law (age 59) has more health problems than about anyone I know and is just trying to keep going, and my Dad's friend just passed away. I got to thinking (sometimes a dangerous thing, but in this case a good thing) and my attitude truly changed. I don't embrace 60 but I accept it now. I am surrounded by a loving and generous family, I have most of my health, I have a beautiful home and all the necessities of life and many of the NOT necessary but fun things. I am blessed with gifts and abilities from my Father in Heaven and have no reason at all to be sour. I repented.

The family came over for dinner on Sunday night. Wayne had made chicken and noodles over mashed potatoes. One of my childhood favorites. Colett made me a lemon cake with strawberry ice cream that was more than delicious. My little grand daughters had each made me a birthday card and Millie said she loved me so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so (yes 9 so's...I counted them). That just melted my heart right there.

My soon to be 14 year old Nick gave me hugs

My son-in-law picked out my silly and racy birthday card

My hubby not only cooks, but cleans up after himself

Grandson Emerson laughs and finds fun in a cardboard box

Daughter Colett gave me pretty new scarf and a new "red" purse, which happens to be my favorite color.

After opening it, the kids had a ball just playing with the paper stuffed in it.

Here they are. Won't I be stylish?

This is the bad part. It is what 60 candles looks like....unlit,

and this is what it looks like when lit. The heat was so intense I had to back away.

On Monday I went to lunch with dear friends Susan, Tricia and Laura and they showered me with gifts and sparkling conversation, my Facebook friends sent me birthday wishes and I got a visit from my sister and phone calls from my loved ones.

This was dinner on Monday night, also cooked by Wayne. See why I keep him?

Not too many things better than salad, crab with lemon butter and

hot French bread. He also got me a black purse and shoes.

The only down side was that Amy is very sick with her new pregnancy and I was not allowed to take pictures of her. She was here, I was not snubbing her.

There is also a rumor that another friend is bringing me the best creme' brulee' in the world today. I am waiting at my door. If it doesn't happen that's OK. It's the thought that counts right? It was a very good 60th birthday after all. Hold on I am hyperventilating, but now I am going to try to embrace the # 60.

Winter 2011

2011-01-10T19:26:00.000-07:00

I do hate the cold. When I get really cold my back gets tense and starts to ache. I start to shiver and my feet and hands get cold even if I have on socks and gloves. I thought I had left the real cold behind when I moved to Utah. This is the coldest and snowiest winter since we moved here 8 years ago, and the snowy ruts in the road are reminiscent of my old home in Montana. I planted box woods which do very well in Utah except for maybe this year. I may lose them all. When it gets down to 6 degrees, they surrender. I was looking through my picture files though, and it reminded me how lovely November was. These are all pictures of my yard around Thanksgiving. Oh, the good old days. Can I make it through March or until the thermometer hovers around 50 degrees? I am going to go sit under my down throw and contemplate just that question.

What?

2011-01-05T14:35:00.000-07:00

I got this in the mail a couple of days ago. I was not pleased and needless to say I did not subscribe. What is going on? I am not a kid, nor even a middle-ager, but at 59 (For a few more days anyway) I don't think I am a senior citizen either. Now if the offer was 80% off all my future dinners at Carrabba's I would probably feel differently, but to have a magazine company call me "old" is not a pleasant thought. When did a senior citizen become 55 or 60 instead of 65? I especially don't want one reminding me it is the Sunset of my life. This is especially not the case since most older citizens can't even afford to retire until their late 60's or 70's now. If I want a senior citizen discount, I want the option of asking for it.

Thank you Kee

2011-01-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

I love getting stocking stuffers on Christmas morning. This year my daughter-in-law outdid herself. Candy, fuzzy socks, note pad, calculator key chain, scrabble game and holiday plaque. I don't usually get that many stuffers and this was really a treat. Thank you for being so thoughtful. Shon may have had something to do with it too, but we all know the woman is the one who does the little things right?

Hand Made Christmas

2010-12-28T20:54:00.001-07:00

My daughters and daughter-in-law decided that 2010 should be a hand made Christmas. I jumped on the bandwagon and made my granddaughter a photo album of and for just her. Then I saw a great idea on the Internet that I wanted to make all the girls. I saved it on my computer and then when I went to find it, it had disappeared into cyberspace. I Googled every site I could find and there was no photo or mention of the idea anywhere. I didn't get it done. I will look all the coming year and do it next year if I can find it. I am beginning to wonder if it was all in my dreams.

The girls did a fantastic job on their gifts though, and I am sure you will agree.

Colett made me this decoupaged wall box. She ordered a special crackle medium from France that made it look aged. I love, love the tree and the sentiment. Her hubby Matt actually made the wooden box and helped with the graphics. It is very special to me. (She sells them now and if you want one let me know.) She has lots of different graphics to choose from. Enlarge to really see how it looks. She really has an artist's eye.

Amy made this necklace and put it in my stocking. It is made of simple glass beads on a silver chain. It's so pretty.

Kee made me these beautiful earrings from chocolate pearls. Oh I love them so.

Amy knew that I wanted a cute apron and sewed this one up for me. She has such a talent with clothing design. A while back, I told her I didn't like the feeling of a strap around my neck and she made this one that crosses in the back. Isn't it just the most darling apron? The apron actually has an apple green pocket and trim. I don't know why it photographed yellow. I have never had that happen before. Enlarge once again to see the detail.

I had seen an item like this at the Beehive Bazaar and commented how cute they were but didn't buy them at the time. Well, Kee made me a bunch. She took half rounds and glued them to little spools and then wrapped baker's twine around them in all the colors. I use the twine in my scrapbooking and cards. It makes me happy just to look at them. Little mushrooms growing all over my window sill now.

My friends even did hand made this year. Susan found a vintage looking Christmas

card and put it in a hand made frame, and Laura decoupaged a little print and made it into an ornament. I also got hand made loaves of bread from Tricia and Becky and peppermint fudge from Robyne but I didn't have anything to photograph as they were devoured too quickly.

Amy made me another amazing gift. She took music paper and cut leaves out of it and made a wreath to hang by my piano. Not only can she sew, she is just plain crafty.

Isn't my gift pile just wonderful? Thank you, thank you, thank you. I love you all.

Things I have loved this week

2010-12-21T20:10:00.001-07:00

I am one who loves the sometimes rather hectic days during the weeks prior to Christmas. These are the things I have loved this past week.

1. Making goodies with the family. We made peanut butter fudge, peppermint bark, cake bites, sugar cookies, mint chocolate brownies and Mexican wedding cookies.

2. My friend Susan had a luncheon for those neighbor ladies with December birthdays. We had quiche made by her hubby Paul (to die for) fruit, green salad, monkey bread (to die for) and treats. Best of all though, was just sitting and talking to friends for a couple of hours. We discussed all the important things in life....how to raise children, diseases and immunizations, Ro's childhood, shopping or lack there-of, parents going on missions, how much we love the young men who prepare and pass the sacrament at church, the evils of porn, etc. and how much we love each other. Lovely, lovely lovely

3. Listening to all my old Christmas CD's and my new one by Michael Buble'. I know he is singing just for me. Thank you Michael, you are wonderful.

4. Finishing wrapping the presents and knowing most of my work is done

5. Eating hot dogs at Costco with the Grand kids and just walking around looking and not touching

6. A call from my Mom

7. Wayne healing from his heart stents

8. Shon and family getting here safely even though he had to drive 40 mph much of the way from Wyoming and causing his trip to last 13 hours

9. Crafting with the daughters and daughter-in-law

10. My little grandson telling me I am his best friend and when his Mom says "WHAT? I am your best friend." Then he points at me and says Grandma is.

11. Snow that made the trees beautiful but the temps were warm enough to melt the snow on the streets and we have a snow blower that I learned to use

12. Neighbor kids who have befriended my grand kids and spend time with them

13. Brenden who calls me Grandma Ostler (16 year old neighbor boy)

14. Book Club dinner and Christmas party with my favorite ladies in the neighborhood

15. Getting a nice check in the mail for the last cow tags I will ever make

16. Fresh homemade bread from my friend and my visiting teacher

17. A homemade craft from my uncrafty friend Laura and another framed vintage Christmas card from Susan

18. Breakfast at church with the wise men (Bishopric) doing the cooking

19. Wayne's homemade 3 berry jam

20. Cards and newsletters from faraway friends

21. A wonderful Christmas program at church and singing in the choir, listening to a violin duet by my 2 neighbor boys, and a great talk by my other neighbor about the real Christmas story

22. Watching sappy Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel

The Nativity

2010-12-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

It's been three years since our family did a nativity program for our own family party. I am amazed at how much they have all changed in that time. I don't know why, because children will (of course) change greatly in three years, but when I see them every few days I don't always appreciate how much change there is in such a short period of time until I see the photos. I have blogged this before, but just as you put up your own nativities each year, I have to do this one again as I love the memories and the photos so much. It was one of those times when everything worked out perfectly. The children were excited to do their parts, the baby never cried, and the true spirit of Christmas shone through.

Nick and Isabelle were Joseph and Mary

Little Emerson was baby Jesus and smiled almost the whole time he was in the manger.

Millie, an actress and a true angel, portrayed the angel who came to announce Christ's birth.

My grand nephews were the wise men

My little McLeod cousins played the shepherds.

May the spiritual aspects of Christmas permeate your home this year.

This TIme of Year

2010-12-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

It's busy this time of year but I love it. It took me a week to decorate again this year but my house feels like a Christmas village and it makes me happy. It will be a sad day when I can't climb a step ladder and hang my decorations one day in the future. I have added two new decorations this year but I will either have to get rid of some or never buy more because my horizontal spaces are depleted. I always put up garland, lights, etc. and save my nativity for last. It's the favorite of all my decorations (and I have a lot of favorites). It is quite large and covers the whole top of my piano. It really helps me remember the love of our Savior and also helps me relive the joy the world must have felt at the time Christ was born as they had been waiting for their king. Angels actually came down and sang and there was renewed hope for mankind. If I had been there at that time, I am sure I would have found one of the choirs to sing with, just to be a part of it all.

Really!

2010-11-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

I didn't find these tidbits in time for Halloween, but you can tell your kids these things now and they will think you are cool.

When threatened, the hairy frog, or 'horror frog,' intention-
ally breaks its own bones to produce claws that protrude from
its toe pads.

AND

If cornered, some horned lizards species can shoot their
potently foul blood from their eye sockets up to six feet.

Popcorn

2010-11-10T12:38:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love popcorn? OK, there is nothing that smells better in the kitchen than bread baking, but popcorn is a close second. We used to always make popcorn in our air or handle turning poppers. It was really good and was fun to watch as it popped. At other times I would just use a heavy pan with oil in the bottom and it turned out even better. Along came the microwave and the poppers were relegated to the basement and the pan is now used for just veggies. Microwave popcorn is also good but really not as good as the poppers or pan method because sometimes there is a residual chemical taste. I was reading my Food Channel magazine this week and found a recipe for making my own microwave popcorn. It is Ellie Kreiger's recipe and I am going to try it. You don't always know what ingredients you are getting in microwave corn and she says this is her favorite. This way you can monitor the oil and chemical content.

Toss 1/4 cup popcorn kernels in a small bowl with 1/2 teaspoon peanut oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Pout it all in a paper lunch bag with the top folded over a few times. Microwave about 2 minutes or until the popping almost stops. She says it comes out perfectly and with 1/3 less calories than regular microwave popcorn and no additives. Try it and let me know what you think.

If the truth be known, I love theatre popcorn with all the artificial stuff and real butter at home. Good thing I don't have it very often.

Really?

2010-11-08T18:49:00.003-07:00

I love Christmas and have about every decoration a person can get. I have lots of Santa figurines, nativities, bells, ornaments, reindeer, etc. but as I was thumbing through the paper this weekend, I found this ad from K-Mart. What??? Really???

I can't in any way associate a pig in a Santa suit or a lighted hippo to Christmas. I have heard of Christmas geese. I was in the play the "Christmas Goose" when I was little, and I have heard of Christmas mice and spiders coming out at night to see the Christ Child but please tell me what a pig and hippo have to do with Christmas ??? I won't be adding these to my decorations any time soon.

Maybe I am not enough of a redneck. I think I can see these sitting beside a Jeff Foxworthy mobile home.

Barnes & Noble.com - Image Viewer: There's No Place like -a Mobile- Home for t

Mmm Mmm Good

2010-11-04T12:35:00.000-06:00

For some reason, the pictures of the food this month are turned sideways. They are correct in my picture file, and when I upload them to the blog they are correct at first and then turn sideways. I can't figure this out so they are going on as is.

Our dinner group in October was hosted by Jim and Jaymie Utley. The theme was Mexican food, and who doesn't like Mexican food? Jaymie outdid herself with the table decorations and food. I would say Jim helped, but I am not sure of that. I think he was just the host with the most.

Jim and Jaymie

The ~~Children's~~ Smaller Table

The flowers and runner were just the thing to introduce Autumn.

The colors, candles, beautiful glassware and place matts really dressed up the table.

The theme was carried through with leaf shaped dishes

The best flan you have ever tasted made by Scott and Lori. I forgot to take a picture of the caramel sauce that went over the top, but trust me, we all wanted to lick the bowl when it was empty.

Cream cheese 3 berry ( strawberry, raspberry and blackbeery) chipoltle dip with blue corn chips made by Wayne

Melt in your mouth Chili rellenos made by the Turner's

Mmmm tender, stuffed pork with mole sauce made by the Welton's

Fresh salsa made with corn, beans, avocado, tomatoes, cilantro etc.

Can't get enough of the good things right Doug and Julie?

Ostler duo - Joan and Wayne

Scott, the official flan tester and sous chef

Laura, Lori (the flan chef) and Rick

The Welton Pair - Susan and Paul

The Ahlstrom couple - Doug and Julie

Pumpkin Carving

2010-10-25T21:36:00.005-06:00

My carved pumpkin from last year

One that I did not carve last year

I was watching a show on HGTV one day about people that have a real talent for carving pumpkins. I mean "real" artists whose work will blow your mind with their imaginative creations.   I feel so inadequate. I may never carve again. There have to be some real hints out there in Google land that would show me how to make carving Jack-O-Lanterns easier, or maybe some fabulous tool that I'm not aware of that would make carving them as easy as buttering toast. I will have to see what they are, but in the mean time check out these links. You will be amazed too. Click to enlarge to get the real detail of their work.

              Photos of Amazing, Unique Pumpkin Carving Designs

Horror Movies Pumpkin Carvings are Too Scary for the Weak Hearted | Walyou

                             Pumpkingutter Pumpkin Carvings

                   42 Carved Pumpkins that Will Blow Your Mind

Cannery Row

2010-10-15T14:06:00.000-06:00

When I was a kid, my cousin Cindy and I would eat sardines right out of the can. I liked them, believe it or not, until someone told me that they are so tiny that they don't bother gutting them. You get the whoooole fish when you eat them. I didn't eat them for 50 years. After this trip I found out they really did gut them. Well, did I waste 50 years of not having my sardines. No, I had them by accident on a pizza in Idaho and thought they were TERRIBLE!

Remember the movie "Cannery Row" starring Nick Nolte and somebody else? Me either, not really very much anyway. I need to rent it to refresh my memory. I do remember the frog scene and the Cannery Row feeling so that when we got here, I knew a little about what I was looking at. Cannery Row is the waterfront street in the New Monterey section of Monterey, California. It is the site of a number of now-defunct sardine canning factories. The last cannery closed in 1973. The street name, formerly a nickname for Ocean View Avenue, became official in January 1958 to honor John Steinbeck and his famous novel "Cannery Row". I have to confess, I have never read the book.

According to Wikipedia, the canneries failed after the collapse of the fishing industry in Monterey Bay in the mid-1950s, due to overfishing. Before the collapse, the fishery was one of the most productive in the world. Today the area around Cannery Row is a marine sanctuary and is home to a large population of California sea lions, of which I never saw. I only saw seals.

Cannery Row itself is now a tourist attraction with many restaurants and hotels, many of which are located in former cannery buildings, and a few historical attractions. A few privately owned and operated fishing companies still exist on Cannery Row, and it still smells fishy.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium (opened 1984) is located at the north end of Cannery Row, at the former site of the major Hovden Cannery which closed its doors in 1973. It was the last sardine cannery on the row to close.

"Cannery Row in Monterey in California is a poem, a stink, a grating noise, a quality of light, a tone, a habit, a nostalgia, a dream." — John Steinbeck, opening sentence, Cannery Row (1945).

This is a sign/walkway that crosses the road on cannery row

This is a photo I took of a picture that shows what it looked like during it's heyday.

One of the poster signs hanging in the museum

Factory Workers

Can you imagine what you must have smelled like after your shift? I have a hard time even washing the tuna or salmon smell off my hands after I fix it for lunch.

Several of the original boiler cookers still sit in the Monterey Aquarium. Wayne is standing in front of one of them.

I worked at a vegetable canning factory when I was in high school, but we only had to pick grasshopper heads or other debris off the conveyor belts and you could go home and wash your hands and go on a date. If I had worked here, I would spend so much time in the shower, I would have never made it on a date.

Monterey Bay and Monterey Fisherman's Wharf

2010-10-12T12:56:00.000-06:00

We toured Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf. It was such a foreign place to a Wyoming girl that I could hardly take it all in. I know I snapped photos of trawlers, whalers, fishing boats, sail boats, yachts, dinghy boats and even tugs but after I put them on my computer, I forgot which ones were which.. Here are a few.

I think this is a fishing boat.

A small whale watching boat

I have seen pictures like this before but it is so cliche that I had to snap it.

Docked sail boats

Here are a whale watching boat and a sail boat but I took the photo because I loved the seals perching on all the buoys.

These big guys were sunning themselves on the deck of a restaurant next to the seal watching area.

A pod of playing seals

Taking a break from playing

You usually see weather vanes atop cupolas that sport roosters, horses or eagles where I come from, but this one was so appropriate for the area. I love weather vanes and need one at my house.

The Fisherman statue at the wharf

Fishing is a very dangerous profession and the fisherman have to be strong mentally and physically to survive. Job Description for a Professional Fisherman | eHow.com

Standing in front of the kelp beds in Monterey Bay

A light house right off the golf course

Kelp Beds

The seals like to come here to eat the many species of fish that hide in the kelp

I took this in a pull off area by the bay. It was the perfect time off evening to shoot, the waves were crashing and the sun was shining on the rocks. It is a beautiful picture if I say so myself.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

2010-10-08T09:36:00.000-06:00

Wayne and I went to the Monterey Bay Aquarium while we were in California. I am truly fascinated by our sea creatures and I was not disappointed. There is a huge wall of glass where many sea creatures swim in a simulated ocean environment. I was standing right next to the glass and this guy swam by and stopped right in front of me and just stayed there posing. Of course I had to photograph him. What a ham...er...bass...er something.

I will have to google "fish" and see what this guy really is.

The coral and fish were so colorful that you sometimes had to really look carefully or you'd miss some of the creatures that seemed to be hiding, but in actuality were right in front of your face.

It's feeding time. The diver would hold out to food to each creature, even the sharks, and they would eat out of his hands.

These jelly fish were so awesome. Are they real? What strange creatures they are.

Notice the many. many almost filament looking strings hanging from the body of this jelly fish. So very strange and awesome.

Everyone love the turtles.

The eels freak me out a bit because they are so snakelike. The black striped ones are rather beautiful in design, but the tan spotted one is the kind only his mother could love.

The sardines swim in massive schools and reflect the light looking making them look like they are made of liquid silver. One of their tanks was over your head and they just kept swimming in circles.

Who doesn't love the penguins? They are the clowns of the aquarium.

Another coral and fish tank. Notice the blue guy at the bottom. Is he not the cutest thing ever?

There are life size whales hanging from the ceiling of the museum. It gives you a better idea of the largeness of these creatures. This ones seems to be ready to eat Wayne.

Here you see the size of the killer whale.

What a fun morning.

At the Beach in Carmel, CA

2010-10-05T13:34:00.006-06:00

Wayne and I spent the afternoon at the beach in Carmel, California last week. It was a gorgeous day. We just sat for a long time watching the waves. Wayne had on jeans and his beach shoes as you can see.

I prefer no shoes at all. I need to feel the sand between my toes.

Wayne did take a little tour of the beach. Maybe he wishes he could surf here. Hey Dude! Nah, he doesn't even like to swim in the pool.

When I took my first step into the waves I was shocked that it was as cold as it was. I was not expecting warm, bath tub water, but how do you swim and surf in this frigid H2O?

I was glad for a place to sit. With my lame leg, I can't get up off the ground without help so this sand shelf was just the ticket.

We both liked the sand shelf but wished we had had some nice lounge chairs to veg out on.

Pebble Beach is in the background and it's a beautiful setting. I loved seeing the ocean but it was somehow a little disturbing to me too. I could feel it hypnotize me, beckoning me into it's depths and I am very afraid of the ocean. I will stick to the mountains for my nature appreciation class.

Never in a million years did I think I would find a squirrel on the beach.

There were actually several, and they must be used to people because this one just sat as I snapped his photo.

I loved walking in the wet sand, seeing my foot prints and then watching as the waves erased them again. I can tell I still have a good arches.

The Wave came in a little higher than I thought and my jeans were soaked up to my knees.

Ah, the wave has gone and is not pulling me out to sea. I don't think I will go on a cruise until I get over my fear but I can really appreciate the majesty, beauty and necessity of our oceans and seas.

Do Blonds Really Have More Fun?

2010-09-27T08:45:00.008-06:00

I have toyed with the idea of going blond. It might be easier than touching up gray roots each month. Do blonds really have more fun? Well according to these women, maybe not. Although none of them are probably true blonds, they were/are known as very famous ones.

Marilyn Monroe died at 36 of an apparent suicide from an overdose, although there has never been a definite diagnosis.

She was praised for her acting by the critics and was in many films but she was always lonely and sad and looked for something in life that she could never find. She was married 3 times, and had several affairs, including one with Pres. Kennedy. She reportedly wanted to marry him but was pushed from him so she would not hurt him politically. She came from a broken home and during her young years, was shuffled to many foster homes. Her mother was mentally ill and she was never really sure who her father was.

Lindsay Lohan

Has had a bad home life with parents that mismanaged her career and fought constantly. Her father has been in trouble with the law several times and her mother has been a less than hands on nurturing type. She became a drug addict and has been in an out of jail and rehab many times, apparently addicted to heroin, cocaine and alcohol and has led a bi-sexual lifestyle.

Jayne Mansfield
Dead at 34

Jayne was killed when a mosquito spraying truck rear ended her limo and decapitated her. Some say she wasn't, that it was just her wig that flew off and that her head was smashed. She left 3 young children behind.
She had become a drunk before her death and had several marriages that didn't last.
She apparently had a high IQ but preferred attention to her body and not her mind. She was a Playboy bunny and because of her drinking binges, she wasn't taken seriously and was laughed at during the last years of her life.

Jean Harlow

She was a very spoiled child who thought her name was "Baby" until she turned 5 and learned her real name. Her parents were divorced and her Mom became a pushy stage mother. She was one of the most famous actresses of her time and was in numerous movies but the critics didn't like her acting and mocked her. She was married 3 times and had numerous affairs. Her life was controlled by her movie studio. She died of kidney failure at 26.

Anna Nicole Smith

She led a lonely life and an unhappy childhood. She wanted attention all the time and got it as a Playboy bunny, wanna be actress and socialite. She posed nude for photos and erotic films, had many affairs with both genders. She had a child with several men claiming to be the baby's father. She married a 90 year old man when she was 26, and when he died she claimed his estate. She was estranged from her mother. Her teen-age son died not long before she did at age 39. She was fighting eviction notices right before her death because her husband's children claimed she was a gold digger and contested his will.

Then there was Princess Di, dead at 39 in a car crash. She had an unhappy marriage, was distanced from the throne, her hubby was in love with another woman, she had unfulfilled affairs, etc.

And lets not forget the men......James Dean, dead at 24
Buddy Holly, dead at 23.

Apologies to all my blond friends. (Although most of you aren't really blond either.)
If you do have more fun, I don't want to know. I will live a sheltered and
naive life with my brunette hair and I will just go create my own type of fun.

Amazing

2010-09-17T21:06:00.012-06:00

You will need to enlarge this photo to really appreciate it. I took it from my home town web site. It has been going around the Internet as Big Horn Sheep on the Cody, Wyoming Buffalo Bill Dam but it is probably the Diga del cingino Dam, in Italybut there are differing comments on where in Italy it actually is. Those sheep are actually some sort of Ibex. They do look somewhat like big horn sheep and have the sure footing that I only dream of. Can you believe this? According to sources, these Ibex really do climb here and the photo is not doctored as you will see in the youtube video. This should give my Mom nightmares as she doesn't even like elevators.

Awesome Fishing And Hunting New Zealand. Fishing And Hunting Forum. Where New

Click on the above link.

Preying or Praying?

2010-09-09T10:53:00.001-06:00

We had a late, cool "Spring" so the yard, trees and bugs seemed to get a late start this year, including the arrival of these guys. Wayne sees a few baby ones while he mows and when he does, he picks them up and moves them to the garden or rose bushes. I hadn't seen any really big ones until last week.He was climbing the deck so I snapped his photo. If you look closely at the background you will see the picture is actually upside down. I tried to prod the little bugger to move and to turn right side up but he just wouldn't have any of that. I don't like looking at things upside down so flipped it. You will just have to view the grass in place of the sky here. This guy escaped the mower blades and the birds this year to get this big. It's hard to tell from the photo but he is about 3 1/2 inches long. Here is a weird fact: A big mantis will eat small lizards and birds, but a small mantis will be eaten by larger birds and lizards. I didn't see my first one until about 10 years ago while we were visiting Utah and didn't even know what they were. Apparently Montana and Wyoming are too cold for them to survive. I was freaked out when I first saw one but now I think they are fascinating and I rather like watching them. They have voracious appetites where flies and grasshoppers are concerned so we welcome them to our yard.

Here is a link to see what they are all about. There is a really good photo of one here.

Praying Mantids, Praying Mantis Pictures, Praying Mantis Facts - National Geog

2010-09-06T21:27:00.001-06:00

Last week I had a darling little boy come to spend the night. He was 2 years old and we had a great time together. He played with his diggers, his guitar, his Grandpa, the dog and me. We played hide and seek and where is the belly button and then watched cartoons on my bed.

Needless to say, he never found out what Sponge Bob did that day. Nite, nite precious.

Then this week, that little guy turned three. I can't believe it was three years ago that he came into our lives.

Playing the cardboard guitar I made him and making a face at me. He is known for his myriad of funny faces.

Resident tub cleaner

Mr. Cool

Happy Birthday Emerson. You are the funniest little guy we know. We always tell him he is handsome, unique, smart, and wonderful because he is.

Pioneer Day 2010

2010-08-27T21:55:00.024-06:00

Pioneer Day 2010 in Cowley, Wyoming

Big Horn Academy/Cowley High School

New High School in Cowley

2010 Pioneer Day in my little home town this year was a big deal. There was an all school reunion, my class reunion and Wayne's family reunion the same week. A new high school was built in Cowley as a consolidated school for Cowley and the small surrounding communities. We attended an open house for it and, oh my, what a change there has been since I went to high school. There were computer labs, science labs, industrial labs, theatre, etc. etc. etc. My high school was built as an academy by the founders of the town back in 1916. It was fabulous for it's time, but it has been remodeled for the administration building. This is the first new high school built since then.

Cindy, Dave, Joan, Chris and John

We had a total of 14 in my graduating class. One has passed leaving 13 of the smartest, best looking and fun people still known to man, but we were laughing at the reunion that we were not the most athletic class, we were the cerebral group. We were pretty competitive for honors and since the class was so small we all had to do our part in everything including band, choir, government, art, sports, journalism, clubs and every other activity. Since there were not many of us, we really had to excel in every venue. You couldn't just sit back and let someone else do it so we learned how to work and to how to lead and it helped us in our lives later on.

We have 2 doctors in the group, Dave who is the head of the U of Wyoming psychology Dept. and John, who is an oral surgeon in Montana. Kent, who passed away, was a graduate of Nuclear Power School and was also the director of facilities at the Hanson Planetarium in Utah. Cindy M.(far left) works for a University in Montana, Cindy P. and I both ended up working with our husbands in opening and operating our own businesses. Keith is an entrepreneur and built a car wash and storage facility, Brad is a funeral director, Dave S. is very knowledgeable in the antique business and has his own store. Besides his regular job, Chris restores old cars and has done several from top to bottom. I 'm hoping to hear from the others that weren't able to make it to the reunion.

We were together from babyhood to graduation. I consider them all dear friends and it was fun to get together again.
Of course the reunions weren't the only activities going on this week-end. There was a parade, pioneer program, talent show, games, rodeo, lunch and dinner in the park and an ice cream social. This little town knows how to do it right.

Amy and Emerson watch the parade

Wes taking a break in the shade

Susan, one of my best friends from High School.

Niece Jamie

Brother Greg and wife Lynn

Amy and my Dad

The little home town grows from 600 to several thousand on this weekend. All hearts turn to, and come home on Pioneer Day.

Montana Visit

2010-08-25T08:46:00.011-06:00

While we were on vacation in July, Wayne, Amy, Wes, Emerson and I went to Montana for the day. It was a quick trip to see Shon and family, and while the guys did their thing, the girls went shopping. We were only there long enough to eat lunch, shop and then eat dinner. No time to visit our friends this time, but we still love you.

What does he have to do with our trip?

We love to eat at the original Fudruckker's in Billings and as we ate, this little guy came to visit.

I knew at a glance it was Don King's duck. Yes, it's another duck photo. I try to get one on each vacation.

Our favorite store in Billings is Granny's Attic. I took this picture of Amy so I could get the sign and a few of the items in the photo. As I was taking the photo, the clerk said "let me take a photo of both of you". He asked me to put on a hat and for Amy hold up an antique hankie.

Pretty cheesy, but we complied.
We bought some small things, but we had little room in the car and nothing really jumped out this trip to say YOU NEED ME. Yes, sometimes that happens.

Check

2010-08-18T15:38:00.003-06:00

I have traveled a lot this spring and summer and it has been so fun. I could go somewhere every month and not get tired of it, but I do get tired of packing and unpacking and trying to make sure I have everything coming and going. I am at a place where I have to write everything down . Pills? check.... Phone? check...Makeup? check....Books? check....., camera? check. Oh yes, the camera. Even if I go on a day trip I feel so naked without it. I have loved my Canon Powershot A610. You know they say a picture is worth a thousand words and even though it is not an expensive model, it is digital and I get instant gratification for my efforts thus I have saved many thousands of words this month. OK, so I have not mastered the night setting.

What Has Happened?

2010-08-16T16:29:00.004-06:00

I have blogged twice before about our trips to Idaho and how quirky the little town of Blackfoot is. I snapped a picture of this waitress statue last year and thought she was pretty cute, really tall and a fun throwback to the good old days. Imagine our surprise when we rolled through a couple of weeks ago to see her still standing there, but somehow she looks a little different.

Oh yea, she is no longer carrying her platter of food.

Chow..I mean Ciao Baby

2010-08-08T20:32:00.029-06:00

Wayne and I belong to a little gourmet cooking group with some friends. (Six Couples) The idea is to pick a theme for the food each month and then make foods for a dinner that reflect that theme. We are to try new things that we may not always try and use recipes that we may not ordinarily use...thus the gourmet designation. July's theme was Italian and was hosted by Paul and Susan. Warning: Don't read this in the middle of the morning or in the early afternoon because you will begin to drool. Come back and read after you have eaten dinner. We only had four couples in July because two couples couldn't make it , so this is for them to read and wish that they had been there. It was a truly delicious meal and I am excited for the next one. I have to say that there are at least 5 gourmet cooks in the group. (I am not one of them) but Wayne "IS" and so are Lori, Paul, Rick and Laura. The others may be also, but I will have to continue to go to the dinners until I find out for sure. I am the sous chef at my house and I like it just fine that way.

Paul and Susan

Joan and Wayne

Laura and Rick

Doug and Julie

Here is the Pesto Pasta that Paul made. It contained pine nuts, raisins, tomatoes, basil, garlic, Italian seasonings and cheese among other things. I had never had raisins in a pasta meal before and it was really good. They gave just a hint of sweetness that complimented the pungent flavor of the pine nuts and pesto.

Delicious Paul!!

Grilled zucchini and green beans with garlic, lemon juice, asiago cheese, spices and then wrapped with prosciutto and chives. Pretty huh? Good job Wayne (and Joan)

Wonderful Italian green salad with all the
yummy veggies and olives. Thank you Doug and Julie.

Paul made the appetizers----- this Brochette was made with fresh basil, garlic and tomatoes
but the ingredients were atop Susan's homemade bread. Mmmmmmm

Garlic/cheese bread made from Susan's bread again

Paul also produced these dried apricots stuffed with goat cheese. Now I have to say there are very few foods I don't like, but goat cheese is one of them. My Grandma used to try to pass off goat's milk for dinner at her home. She wouldn't tell me it wasn't cow's milk but I could always tell. There are some goat cheeses that I can handle, so I did give them a try. Not bad Paul, however, I will stick to the old moo machine for most all of my dairy delights.

Last but certainly not least was dessert prepared by Rick. He makes the best creme brulee' in the world. There is not a picture of it. Why? That is because I took pictures at the beginning of the meal and when dessert came around we just woofed it down before I could even get a shot.

Believe me, you would really have drooled at this conclusion. What a great group of friends and what a great meal.

I found out we will be missing the next one this week. We are headed to Denver for a wedding reception. Someone take pictures and rub in our faces this month will you?

Wizard of Oz

2010-07-17T12:21:00.006-06:00

We went to an ice cream social a couple of weeks ago that was a fund raiser for the Alpine Community theatre. Kohler's and Cabella's donated the ice cream and toppings and you could get all the ice cream you wanted for $1. It was a cheap and wholesome activity for the grand kids and included some fun entertainment. They had a really good band and the kids sang and danced for an hour before the the performers from the production "The Wizard of Oz" offered a little presentation of what the play would be like. I bought tickets thinking, "Oh well, if we can't go, it's a good donation for a good cause". I got the tickets for $8 each ( at the senior discount priceeven) which costs about same as a regular show ticket. I mean a movie ticket. See, I deserve the senior discount because I still call it the show. We ended up going and were pleasantly surprised. The singers and actors were really pretty amazing. The dialogue was almost exactly like that of the movie so the play lasted 3 hours with an intermission. It was long but it was a fun performance. The costumes and sets were well done as was the lighting and choreography. The scarecrow was unbelievably good and did just as well as in the movie.

As most of you know, "The Wizard of Oz" is my favorite movie, contains my favorite music and when I die, I want "Over the Rainbow" sung at my funeral. I am still waiting for my ruby slippers though.

I will definitely go again next year to Cinderella. Come with us.

National Ice Cream Day

2010-07-14T08:01:00.007-06:00

Today is National Ice Cream Day. You plan to celebrate don't you? It wouldn't be very patriotic not to. What do your choices tell about your personality? I am sure this is a "really" scientific

study, so if you don't know your own personality, this will tell you.

I prefer mint chocolate chip or vanilla loaded with nuts and chocolate. I will have to make up my own personality traits. So this is what I think: I am a family person, lively, creative, idealistic, conservative, detail oriented, and competent. However......I have been known to indulge in a little vanilla with strawberries too though, and maybe Moose tracks, butter brickle, and peanut butter cup on occasion. I have also dabbled in heath bar or Oreo ice cream so let's just say I have a well rounded personality and a well rounded......well never mind. In actuality, I don't eat it that often, but when I do I really do enjoy it.

==========================================================

Pick your favorite ice cream flavor and find out what it says about your personality.
1. Vanilla 2. Chocolate 3. Butter pecan 4. Banana 5. Strawberry 6. Chocolate chip

Analysis
If you like vanilla , you are colorful, impulsive, a risk taker who sets high goals and has high expectations of yourself. You also enjoy close family relationships. Gregarious, lives a hectic life. Easily suggestible, expressive, idealistic; a private person.(Prototype lovelorn housewife.)

If you like chocolate, you are lively, creative, dramatic, charming, enthusiastic and the life of the party. Chocolate fans enjoy being at the center of attention and can become bored with the usual routine. Seductive, well-dressed, extroverted, easily influenced, a follower, intuitive, enjoys intimate relationships.(Prototype: feminine woman, macho man.)

If you like butter pecan, you are orderly, perfectionist, careful, detail-oriented, conscientious, ethical and fiscally conservative. You are also competitive, aggressive in sports and the take-charge type of personality.(Prototype: executive, secretary.)

If you like banana, you are easy going, well adjusted, generous, honest and empathetic.(Prototype: the perfect husband, wife, parent or child.)

If you like strawberry, you are shy, yet emotionally robust, skeptical, detail-oriented, opinionated, introverted and self critical. Easily made to feel guilty; cranky, pessimistic, low self-esteem.(Prototype: bureaucrat, journalist.)

If you like chocolate chip, you are generous, competitive and accomplished. You are charming in social situations, ambitious and competent. A visionary, a conqueror, enjoys being catered to, a go-getter, intolerant of defeat.(Prototype: Industry leaders, voted most likely to succeed in school.)

Compatibility:If your favorite flavor is:

Vanilla - you are most likely to be compatible with someone whose favorite flavor is vanilla.
Chocolate - compatible with butter pecan or chocolate chip.
Butter pecan - compatible with butter pecan, chocolate and chocolate chip.
Banana - compatible with all flavors.
Strawberry - compatible with chocolate chip.
Chocolate chip - compatible with butter pecan or chocolate.

I think I am compatible with about everyone!

Real???

2010-07-10T18:13:00.006-06:00

I stumbled upon this Youtube video and at first I didn't get why this guy kept flexing his face and looking so weird. I hadn't really read the info first, so when I did I was amazed. For around $700 you can look like this dude for your next Halloween party. Or if he doesn't float your boat, there are several other ones that might. I didn't publish the old lady head shots, but she is too realistic to be believed. You might not be a credible witness if you saw a crime being committed using this product.

'Handsome Guy' Human Mask Is So Realistic, It's Creepy - Urlesque

After you look at this video, google SPFX Masks and see the others.

Has a Heart

2010-07-02T21:37:00.007-06:00

My hubby had stents put in his heart almost exactly 10 years ago. When they did the procedure, they sent his blood work to a study going on at the U of California, Berkley. They were trying to find how platelets in the blood formed in certain people. Most people have cholesterol that bounces through the arteries hitting the walls on all sides and passing through. They found out that his start bouncing through but are shaped like koosh balls and they stick instead of continuing their journey. They gave him 3 stents and told him they would see him again. Not "maybe" we will see you again, but "when" and they gave him ten years until he would need new ones. They asked him to have his brothers and sisters tested because of this odd genetic marker. He has 5 siblings and found his one sister has the same thing. (Lucky them)

He has never had a heart attack but is lucky that he hasn't. Instead of angina pains or pains in his arms or shoulders, he gets pain in his teeth. When he first had it he thought he must have a cavity. The dentist couldn't find anything and sent him to the GP. When he would shovel snow it would hurt his teeth and he thought it was just the cold. Now we know differently. He was having the same tooth pain again recently and after his exam last week, they got him in and "voila".... another stent was put in yesterday. No heart damage again thank goodness. The bad news is he has a valve that is not working correctly and 2 more stents that may collapse in 5 years. They said, "see you again in 5 years for open heart surgery".

Many good and different things have changed since the first procedure. It was much quicker, safer and easier for him to recover. Maybe in 5 years things will be better than it is now. It has only been 2 days and he is feeling almost great. I am so happy for the outcome. It was better than we anticipated. I love having my man around.

So this is a warning, if you feel strange sensations in your teeth get your heart checked.

2010-06-24T12:03:00.004-06:00

Alex today

Alex a few weeks ago

My grandson Alex and his family have been staying with us while he is recovering from surgery. He has been a very, very sick young man. He developed chronic ulcerative colitis a couple of years ago and steadily declined in health until they flew him from the hospital in Montana to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City a month ago. They removed his colon after trying every medicine and procedure possible, but they just didn't work. After many blood transfusions, and different doctors weighing in on his prognosis, they removed a very diseased colon. He will have another surgery in October to form a new one.

I am just amazed at how he is healing in just a few short weeks, but the really amazing thing is the care, the prayers, the fasting, and donations that have been given in his behalf. I am also amazed at the willingness of some who don't even know him to give of themselves to help out the family. I love my neighbors and friends, their neighbors and friends, the Boy Scouts, the church members, the community and all others who have given in every way possible. You are WONDERFUL.

Their home town is giving a benefit tonight to help raise money for his continued treatment and traveling expenses. We have heard from many who have given items for an auction. The Shrine Auditorium donated their building, the food was donated, the DJ donated his time, the paper products were donated, and the list goes on and on. We are humbled, grateful, and blown away by such generosity. He is a special young man that God wants on this earth a while longer and we are so glad. Alex is optimistic and understands his ordeal but has not gotten bitter. He has such a special spirit. Here is an article that was in the Montana paper this morning.

Benefit to help ill teen, family