Life in the Library

Thoughts on a tree for next year.

2011-11-08T05:11:00.000-08:00

It's been a while, but I had something happen yesterday, that I feel I need to share.
Even though I am working on the finishing touches for the tree for Festival of Trees this year, I have had in my mind that I need to find out what I want to do for next years tree, on the 10th anniversary of Hanna's death. I had also prayed about a little. Well, yesterday a friend and I went to Hancock fabrics because she needed to get some things for the Empress Theatre for costuming Scrooge and she doesn't have a car. When we walked in, who did I see but one of Hanna's former teachers at Hartvigsen, the special school for Granite District. She was there with some of the Special Needs kids for a class. I said Hi, and we talked for a minute, but she was right there at the pattern desk, so we kept talking a little more. Anyway, I decided to look through the pattern books and before I knew it, Boom, I was looking at a cute Fairy House that can be made, and I knew that's what I want to do for the tree. I had kind of been considering it, because another friend had made some beaded fairies to use sometime on a tree, but this drove it home! Then there were costumes for fairies that would be a wonderful addition to the tree. I felt Hanna's approval through the fact that her teacher was there! This was from Heavenly Father and I knew it!

My feelings

2011-06-10T04:58:00.000-07:00

I was asked by my niece, Aileen, to write how certain things in our marriage have been crucibles that we have encountered and how we have dealt with them. This was for a class she is taking. This is my response.

"I can't do this without going into some detail, so I hope that is okay. If you need anything more, let me know. In short, this crucible lasted for almost 19 years, the life of Hanna, but we still use this experience to help others.

Our lives were forever changed when our daughter, Hanna, was born 10 weeks prematurely on Nov. 21, 1983. Little did we know what we would go through. We had hopes at first that all would be well with her and we kind of wore blinders for the first little while. She was the 6th of our children, and the first to have any problems surrounding her birth. She spent 7 weeks in the NBICU at LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, UT and had several set-backs, but after getting a book on premature infants, we realized she didn't suffer some of the ill effects of prematurity.

As time went on, we ended up in the hospital several times for various health problems, including failure to thrive. We found she needed help at this point and got her started in early intervention because she wasn't progressing and was labeled as developmentally delayed. She continues to make some progress in some areas, but socially, she was not doing well. We had her diagnosed as Autistic when she was about 10yrs. old.

Her whole life was a trial for our entire family, because of her Autism and other health issues. We worked together, relied on our faith and just went day to day. She finally graduated from high school and was so proud and you could see it in her face.

Years before, one of her health problems was found in an ultrasound when she was 8 yrs old. She had surgery at the time to drain a syrenx in her spinal cord and then later she had to have her neck fused. In July, she had an MRI as a follow-up, and the Dr was concerned the syrenx had returned, so he wanted to get another MRI in October. ON Oct. 9, 2002, I took her in to Primary Children's Medical Center and because they had to put her under for the MRI, we had done as they requested, not letting her eat or drink for so many hours. Well, while she was under, she vomited and aspirated. They worked on her for 30 min. but because of her weak lungs and heart, she died. We were rocked when we were told of what happened.

My husband was out of town, at his parents in Santa Monica, CA and I had to call him and tell him what had happened. I wasn't able to speak, and so the doctor told him. He told me he would be home as quickly as he could. He was on the road in 20 minutes, and says he doesn't really remember much of the drive. We immediately gathered our children around us and other family members to pray together and support each other. Neighbors came to offer what ever assistance they could and our Ward of the Church rallied around us. We felt great comfort in knowing how loved she was in the community and among her friends from school and church. Since that time, we have gotten involved in various causes to help heal our hearts. We have done a tree in her honor for the Festival of Trees here in Salt Lake. We have participated in online groups to help others dealing with a child's loss, especially ones with congenital heart issues. One thing I found very helpful has been to just talk to others about Hanna and our experiences we had in her life. The hurt is still there, but we are strong in our conviction that we will see her again, and that her body is whole now, with none of the problems she endured in life. We have many "Hanna" moments between my husband and I and with our children. She is not forgotten. Our Grandchildren hear us speak of her, and know we miss her. Life goes on, but we are all changed for having her in our lives."

New Magna Library Grand Opening!

2011-05-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

WOW! We finally opened the new Magna Library on May 21st, and it was amazing! I am so glad to finally be in the wonderful new building. I know we are all glad to finally be here! I am sure, Trish, our manager is relieved! It's been a long time coming! The amount of people who came through was staggering and it was a huge hit with everyone! All I can say, is Whew!

On Writing Poetry

2011-04-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

This month of poetry has been,
a most remarkable thing.
I've found I have the skill
to express my thoughts at will.

I am more than you see outside
I have feelings deep inside
Our lives have a purpose, it is true.
We must help others see it too.

So make a difference to a friend in need
You'll be happy in the end indeed
You'll see our Savior and He will say,
"Well done, enter my house today!"

The Five Ws Poem

2011-04-29T15:21:00.001-07:00

Vicki

came home early,

from work at the old Library,

at 2pm this afternoon,

because there really wasn't much else to do to get things ready for the movers on Monday!.

Clerihew Poem

2011-04-28T12:07:00.001-07:00

I'm told my son Cory likes to play
Although he has to work all day
When he gets a chance
He puts on his basketball pants!

Lantern Poem

2011-04-28T05:21:00.000-07:00

Light
Shining
Sure Brilliance
Fills up our souls
Christ

If you were Poem

2011-04-27T05:07:00.000-07:00

If You Were

If you were a train
and I was a track
I'd guide you home to Father
and help you to get back.

Quinzain Poem

2011-04-25T17:34:00.000-07:00

Royal wedding in London.
Why are we obsessed,
makes no sense?

My sweet Hanna

2011-04-24T05:04:00.001-07:00

MY sweet Hanna

Our daughter, Hanna was born prematurely 27 years ago, but left this life 8 years ago.
She was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 8.
I am grateful for the years she was in our lives, because I learned many things..
I learned to be patient. I learned to be forgiving. I learned to be tolerant.
I learned to love unconditionally as she did.
She was a wonder, in that she never understood or cared why no one called her, when she said , “Call me!”
It didn’t matter to her, just that the person was in her life was all that mattered.
She loved babies, children, animals, and nature.
Her life was a gift to us, that we continue to marvel on.

Rebirth and Renewal

2011-04-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

Rebirth and Renewal

I like to think of butterflies
They represent to me
a rebirth and renewal
of the earth every Spring

Our Savior is all loving
He came to earth, I know
To die for sins of everyone
And show us how to grow

The earth is so remarkable
it shows us how we should live
To have our sins forgiven
and return to God to live

Rictameter Poem

2011-04-22T06:44:00.000-07:00

To be
And so we ask
The question of mankind.
To those without the truth
It's an unfathomable question.
Those who have the vigor of youth
Have so much piece of mind
No need to ask
To be

Rhyming Poetry

2011-04-21T05:13:00.000-07:00

Go to Other Places

I love to read all kinds of books
They take me other places.
To worlds so strange, they have red brooks
and lots of different faces.

Some use the force to guide their lives
And guard those who are helpless.
These Jedi are the kind who thrive
on helping save a princess.

Then others have magicians small
who want to learn their lessons
And fight the evil wizards pall
as others have for eons.

So join me in imagining
These worlds of writers making
And read some books of fantasy
It always is breathtaking!

A Poem of Alliteration

2011-04-19T20:13:00.000-07:00

Meandering Mormon maids
must marry men of might,
It matters most momentously
In the middle of the night.

Millennial marriages may be memorable
in the misty morning light,
When the mockingbirds make music
for the missionary's wife.

Now many mornings later
mid the melodies delight,
Mormon mommies make an entrance
on the Merry-Go-Round of life!

Holiday Poem

2011-04-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

Easter
Cute dresses on girls and suits on boys, looking ever so dapper
The smells of Roast Leg of Lamb cooking and fresh flowers so lovely
Children laughing while Easter Egg hunting and tuneful choirs singing songs of redemption
Hard boiled eggs tasting so tangy and fresh when made into egg salad
Our spirits are touched with blessings unmeasured and love for our Savior fills our hearts
Easter

Nature Personified Poem

2011-04-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

Here's another poem I've written. It's a nature personified poem.

Snow
Snow comes in quietly like a cat stalking a shadow
It covers the earth in a blanket of white
As it floats down from the mountainous clouds
Hiding everything in it's path.
Then leaves just as quietly as it slips down the drains and into the grass.

My thoughts on Moving the Library

2011-04-16T05:24:00.001-07:00

On Closing the Magna Library

The Magna library will close today,
It seems our old building has had it's day.

It's time to move the books away,
To our new building, if that's okay.

So now we take the time to say,
Goodbye to things,our thoughts are gray.

It's sad to move, but it's underway,
We have a new building, Hip hip, hooray!

Another

2011-04-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

What If

What if my life had been perfect ?
I might never have found my husband
What if we had only had two children?
I could only have two grandchildren
What if we had stayed in California?
I would not have the close family and friends I do now
Would I want anything different?

Some other poetry I've been writing this month...

2011-04-15T07:32:00.000-07:00

Day 1 ~ Couplet

I guess I should begin right here,
to write a couplet true and dear.

I want my rhyme to make some sense,
so no one else will think I'm dense.

It's kind of fun when you begin,
and now i need to make an end!

Day 2 ~ Triplet

Now I know, the trick is so clear,
let's see what I can say right here,
it's fun to try and not to fear.

Hey, this is neat and fun to do,
I guess the words are sometimes true,
now on we go to three from two.

Day 3 ~ Acrostic Poem for April

April brings to mind so many things of God
Priesthood keys to bless so many lives
Real love on earth is sealed eternally
In temples here on earth
Love from our Father up above

Day 4 ~ Haiku

Autistic child
Disability of one
Lives turned upside down

Day 5 ~ Onomatopoeia Poem

Our cat makes a sound somewhat like a peep,

whenever she watches birds in a tree.

Don't ask me why,

she must want to fly.

Day 6 ~ "I Am" Poem

I am a mother in Zion and a singer
I wonder if I can get all my children back to Heavenly Father
I hear music all the time around me
I see me embracing my daughter in the eternities
I want to be reunited with all my lost loved ones
I am a mother in Zion and a singer

I pretend I know what I'm doing
I feel that by doing so, I will know what I'm doing
I touch the lives of all those I know
I worry that I'm not enough
I cry when one of my children is in pain
I am a mother in Zion and a singer

I understand why we need the Atonement
I say the Church is true
I dream that my courage will be rewarded
I try to teach others about the Gospel
I hope that others will know I love them
I am a mother in Zion and a singer

Day 7 ~ "If I Were" Poem

If I were a willing servant of the Lord,
I'd tell others of the Gospel and
I'd let them know the truth and,
I'd want them to be happy.
I'd be a faithful missionary

Day 8 ~ Cinquain Poem (Pattern 1)

Heaven
A place you go
where our dear Father lives
He lovingly waits for us there
Our home

Day 9 ~ Cinquain Poem (Pattern 2)

Babies
Cute, cuddly
Hold them tight
Our hearts held captive
Sweetness

Day 10 ~ Spring Senses Poem

Spring looks like a robin's red breast
Spring sounds like birds twittering in the trees
Spring feels like a warm sweet caress
Spring smells like a honey suckle breeze
Spring tastes like ripe strawberries on your breath

That's what Spring is to me!
(I had to add the last line to finish the rhyme :o)

Day 11 ~ Limerick

There once was a girl from the city
Who was really so very pretty
She went to audition
she used such good diction
And now she is known as Miss Kitty

I wrote 2, here's the second:

American Idol's where it's at
You have to be a talented Jack
The Jills have to sing high
The judges have to sigh
Or else you could end up with the Sack

Day 12 ~ Tanka Poem

I am the older
my twin sister is taller
she's a mother of seven
two boys and five girls so fair
I too have seven I love

Day 13 ~ Grammar Poem

My eternal companion
Creative and romantic
Steady and helpful to those around
Like the rock his name stands for
If only we stay the course, eternity's ours

Day 14 was Poem in your pocket Day.

We've been challenged each day
to find something to say
in the style suggested by Stephanie

Here's one that's just fun
and I won't have to run
If I rhyme it now with an epiphany

I will post this right here
and I want to make clear
that now I might not make it in infamy

For rhyming a word
that is sort of absurd
Can be baffling and a total mystery!

Poem

2011-04-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

I wrote a poem today that I am still not sure is done, but I need to post it. Then I can print it out if needed...
My life

I once heard a quote that has come to mean much,
I have made it my daily motto.
"It is good to have an end to journey toward,
but it is the journey that matters in the end. "
I truly believe in this saying,
and I've learned I can help others see.
Our lives have a purpose and we make it so,
by being the best we can be.
If I don't think my life is worth living,
then that's what I'll find in the end.
It's ultimately what I believe,
that makes the difference for me.
So I will go on each day of my life,
Helping others to learn this great truth.
And that will create value and love for me,
Each day from the time of my youth.
So, enjoy your life each day that you live,
just by living your life with a goal,
to make a difference each day
to those who have lost their way
Then you can go home knowing your worth.

Vicki

New Library!

2011-04-02T05:13:00.000-07:00

We are only weeks away from moving the Magna Library to our new building> I am so excited, but I also discovered that it has been the source of sleepness nights. I guess I have been a little anxious about this move, almost like starting a new job! Anyway, I realized that I hadn't prayed about my feelings until something someone said in a testimony last Sunday. Well, I have been praying since then, and it has helped! I am thankful for reminders that we need to pray about everything in our lives. I am grateful for all that I have, and I know who I need to thank for everything! I love the Lord!

Karey White: EVENTS

2011-02-20T05:06:00.000-08:00

Karey White: EVENTS: "Book Signing at Murray Costco February 26, 2011, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 5201 South Intermountain Drive, Murray, UT"

RELIEF SOCIETY (Tribute song)

2011-02-09T05:04:00.000-08:00

Deep thoughts

2011-02-02T05:10:00.000-08:00

I got this quote today , and it really is deep and I want to save it for contemplation.

“…The Lord indicates a…serious problem with harboring an unforgiving heart: ‘Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin.’ (D&C 64:9.) Is the Lord truly saying that refusing to forgive another is a greater sin than the offense committed against us? Yes. Truman Madsen suggests one reason for this: In refusing to forgive another, we, in effect, attempt to deny the blessings of the Atonement to that person: ‘You may have reached the point of desperation in your own life when you have prayed and yearned for forgiveness of your own guilt and sin. But then you turn and say, ‘But not him! Don’t you forgive him! I’m not going to, he doesn’t deserve it.’ You will then close the channel of love and compassion and revelation from the Lord. You seek to nullify His atonement for others. It is like triple plate steel against water.’

[Truman G. Madsen, “On Forgiveness,” address delivered at the annual LDS Social Services Seminar, 3 Aug. 1978, Logan, Utah]” Roderick J. Linton, Ensign, Apr. 1993, 15

Trying to win a book!

2011-01-25T05:33:00.000-08:00

I want to win a book, so I'm posting this link! Go to it and see what you think!
http://donaldjcarey.com/2011/01/its-contest-time-two-for-one-special.html

2010-11-22T05:07:00.000-08:00

This story kind of touched my heart. Please remember it when I get old!

CHEYENNE

By Catherine Moore

'Watch out! You nearly broad sided that car!' My father yelled at me. 'Can't you do anything right?' Those words hurt worse than blows. I turned my head toward the elderly man in the seat beside me, daring me to challenge him. A

lump rose in my throat as I averted my eyes. I wasn't prepared for another battle..

'I saw the car, Dad. Please don't yell at me when I'm driving.' My voice was measured and steady, sounding far calmer than I really felt.

Dad glared at me, then turned away and settled back. At home I left Dad in front of the television and went outside to collect my thoughts. Dark, heavy clouds hung in the air with a promise of rain. The rumble of distant thunder

Seemed to echo my inner turmoil.

What could I do about him?

Dad had been a lumberjack in Washington and Oregon . He had enjoyed being outdoors and had reveled in pitting his strength against the forces of nature. He had entered grueling lumberjack competitions, and had placed often.. The shelves in his house were filled with trophies that attested to his prowess. The years marched on relentlessly. The first time he couldn't lift a heavy log, he joked about it; but later that same day I saw him outside alone, straining to lift it. He became irritable whenever anyone teased him a bout his advancing age, or when he couldn't do something he had done as a younger man.

Four days after his sixty-seventh birthday, he had a heart attack. At the hospital, Dad was rushed into an operating room. He was lucky; he survived...

But something inside Dad died. His zest for life was gone.. He obstinately refused to follow doctor's orders.

Suggestions and offers of help were turned aside with sarcasm and insults. The number of visitors thinned, then finally stopped altogether.. Dad was left alone.

My husband, Dick, and I asked Dad to come live with us on our small farm. We hoped the fresh air and rustic atmosphere would help him adjust. Within a week after he moved in, I regretted the invitation. It seemed nothing was satisfactory. He criticized everything I did. I became frustrated and moody.. Soon I was taking my pent-up anger out on Dick. We began to bicker and argue. Alarmed, Dick sought out our pastor and explained the situation. The clergyman set up weekly counseling appointments for us. At the close of each session he prayed, asking God to soothe Dad's troubled mind. But the months wore on and God was silent. Something had to be done and it was up to me to do it.

The next day I sat down with the phone book and methodically called each of the mental health clinics

Listed in the Yellow Pages. I explained my problem to each of the sympathetic voices that answered. In vain. Just when I was giving up hope, one of the voices suddenl y exclaimed, 'I just read something that might help you! Let me go get the article.' I listened as she read.. The article described a remarkable study done at a nursing home. All of the patients were under treatment for chronic depression. Yet their attitudes had improved dramatically when they were given responsibility for a dog.

I drove to the animal shelter that afternoon. After I filled out a questionnaire, a uniformed officer led me to the kennels. The odor of disinfectant stung my nostrils as I moved down the row of pens. Each contained five to seven dogs. Long-haired dogs, curly-haired dogs, black dogs, spotted dogs all jumped up, trying to reach me. I studied each one but rejected one after the other for various reasons, too big, too small, too much hair. As I neared the

Last pen a dog in the shadows of the far corner struggled to his feet, walked to the front of the run and sat down. It was a pointer, one of the dog world's aristocrats. But this was a caricature of the breed. Years had etched his face and muzzle with shades of gray. His hipbones jutted out in lopsided triangles. But it was his eyes that caught and held my attention. Calm and clear, they beheld me unwaveringly.

I pointed to the dog. 'Can you tell me about him?' The officer looked, then shook his head in puzzlement.

'He's a funny one. Appeared out of nowhere and sat in front of the gate. We brought him in, figuring someone would be right down to claim him, that was two weeks ago and we've heard nothing. His time is up tomorrow.' He gestured helplessly.

As the words sank in I turned to the man in horror. 'You mean you're going to kill him?'

'Ma'am,' he said gently, 'that's our policy. We don't have room for every unclaimed

Dog.'

I looked at the pointer again. The calm brown eyes awaited my decision.. 'I'll take him,' I said.

I drove home with the dog on the front seat beside me. When I reached the house I honked the horn twice. I was helping my prize out of the car when Dad shuffled onto the front porch.

'Ta-da! Look what I got for you, Dad!' I said excitedly..

Dad looked, then wrinkled his face in disgust. 'If I had wanted a dog I would have gotten one. And I would have picked out a better specimen than that bag of bones. Keep it! I don't want it' Dad waved his arm scornfully and turned back toward the house.

Anger rose inside me.. It squeezed together my throat muscles and pounded into my temples..

'You'd better get used to him, Dad. He's staying!' Dad ignored me. 'Did you hear me, Dad?' I screamed. At those words Dad whirled angrily, his hands clenched at his sides, his eyes narrowed and blazing with hate.

We stood

glaring at each other like duelists, when suddenly the pointer pulled free from my grasp. He wobbled toward my dad and sat down in front of him. Then slowly, carefully, he raised his paw..

Dad's lower jaw trembled as he stared at the uplifted paw. Confusion replaced the anger in his eyes. The pointer waited patiently. Then Dad was on his knees hugging the animal..

It was the beginning of a warm and intimate friendship. Dad named the pointerCheyenne . Together he and Cheyenne explored the community. They spent long hours walking down dusty lanes. They spent reflective moments on the banks of streams, angling for tasty trout. They even started to attend Sunday services together, Dad sitting in a pew and Cheyenne lying quietly at his feet.

Dad and Cheyenne were inseparable throughout the next three years. Dad's bitterness faded, and he and Cheyenne made many friends. Then late one night I was startled to feel Cheyenne 's cold nose

burrowing through our bed covers... He had never before come into our bedroom at night. I woke Dick, put on my robe and ran into my father's room. Dad lay in his bed, his face serene. But his spirit had left quietly sometime during the night.

Two days later my shock and grief deepened when I discovered Cheyenne lying dead beside Dad's bed. I wrapped his still form in the rag rug he had slept on. As Dick and I buried him near a favorite fishing hole, I silently thanked the dog for the help he had given me in restoring Dad's peace of mind.

The morning of Dad's funeral dawned overcast and dreary. This day looks like the way I feel, I thought, as I walked down the aisle to the pews reserved for family. I was surprised to see the many friends Dad and Cheyenne had made filling the church. The pastor began his eulogy. It was a tribute to both Dad and the dog who had changed his life.. And then the pastor turned to Hebrews 13:2. 'Be not forgetful to entertain strangers.'

'I've often thanked God for sending that angel,' he said.

For me, the past dropped into place, completing a puzzle that I had not seen before: the sympathetic voice that had just read the right article.

Cheyenne 's unexpected appearance at the animal shelter. . .his calm acceptance and complete devotion to my father. . and the proximity of their deaths. And suddenly I understood. I knew that God had answered my prayers after all. Life is too short for drama & petty things, so laugh hard, love truly and forgive quickly. Live While You Are Alive. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity. Forgive now those who made you cry. You might not get a second time.

And if you don't send this to at least 4 people - who cares? But do share this with someone. Lost time can never be found.

2010-11-02T05:28:00.000-07:00

Well, I started Curves a week ago. I had kind of plateaued with the Wii Fit, so I'm going to try to do better. I really want to get it better shape! I hope you are all well!

2010-09-13T05:58:00.000-07:00

I am asking for all of your help! Please keep your eyes open for something you think would work for our tree. The theme this year is A Patchwork Christmas and our colors will be red and green. Golds will be fine as well. My first thought is to have some kind of patchwork hearts as ornaments on the tree. We also need items for around the tree and tree skirt. Does anyone know of a pre-lit 7 1/2 tree that can be donated. We can buy one if necessary, but a donated one would leave us more to spend on the tree. Please, if you see something that you think will work, send me a picture on my cell phone, 801-512-5838. Also, if you want to help decorate, that is on November 29th at the SouthTowne Center in Sandy. Let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks

Way too long!

2010-07-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

Life keeps catching up and I realize it's been way too long since my last blog. I don't really have much to say, except I'm busy.
My daughter, Stephanie let us know that her Brother in Law, Scott had died on Friday night of an apparent drug overdose. He had been doing better after dealing with an addiction to pain killers, and was even at a camp-out for members of a Narcotics Anonymous Group he belonged to. It has devastated their whole family. My love and prayers go out to the as they struggle to deal with this loss. Scott, I know you are now free from your trials.

Here's a great blog to follow!

2010-05-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

This Blog is for the Salt Lake County Healthy Lifestyles program, but it is wonderful. It has some fantastic ideas to increase your wellness in every area of your life!

http://taylib2.blogspot.com

One of my favorite quotes!

2010-03-03T05:08:00.001-08:00

Our Deepest Fear
by Marianne Williamson

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?

You are a child of God.

Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.

We were all born to manifest the glory of God within us. It’s not just some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.

As we are liberated from our fear,
our presence automatically liberates others.

-Marianne Williamson from her bestselling book A Return to Love

It's been a while...

2010-01-28T18:49:00.000-08:00

I just realized how long it's been since I've posted on my blog. There's been a lot going on. A lot of people have died that I knew, and it's made me much more aware of the condition of my body. I am now using a Wii Fit to exercise most every day. It's fun and good for me, too! I am also trying to eat better, like more fruits and vegetables and less fatty food. Also less portions. I am signed up with the County's Wellness campaign to keep me motivated. I know it's not doing me any good to keep all the extra weight on, so I am doing some things to change that. Life goes on in the Library and at home. Our upstairs bathroom is being remodeled and I am excited to see the finished product! I am sure it will be beautiful!!!!!

Yesterday

2009-11-24T10:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, November 23rd was the one year anniversary since my father's death. I couldn't remember the date for sure, so I didn't even realize it until later in the day when I checked into new.familysearch.org. There it was, and it hit me how much I miss him. I miss his yearly calls on my birthday. I miss his hugs whenever we were together. I miss the story of how he could hold me in in his hand when I was tiny. I miss his asking Val and I to sing every time we were on a trip somewhere. He was proud of all of us and our children and he loved us all immensely. His love spread to all his children and grandchildren through his several marriages. There were no boundaries. He claimed us all! He had a very vast influence on the lives of many people! I will miss you Daddy!

Win a book for Christmas

2009-11-16T06:46:00.000-08:00

Go to a friend's blog and win a book!

http://jdp-news.blogspot.com/2009/11/lets-celebrate-season-with-contest.html

Procrastination Family!

2009-10-24T06:45:00.000-07:00

Let's face it! We are all a family of Procrastinators! I have realized of late how important it is we get this next generation ready...They need copies of the genealogy I've done and any stories we have or it will get lost! We recently got a new hard drive for this computer and we forgot to get the info off the paf on the old one. I realized I may have to retype in all the info, but then I looked on rootsweb and found a lot of it there, so I was able to download it. I still need to update any dates and births and more recent things, but at least I was able to get most of it. I had saved my info on diskettes, but this computer would not read them anymore!!!! Technology changes so quickly and we need to copy our info into the newest things. Flash drives are not even safe! Hard copies on paper may be the best back-up available.

Halloween costuming!

2009-10-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

It never fails! October comes and someone needs a costume! I was about to start making myslef a cape, when Cory asked me to make him a Dr. Horrible Lab coat! Well, it hasn't been going very smoothly, but I think it will work out, even better than the one some guy made. His instructions on the internet are kind of hard to follow, and I think he didn't do an important part, so I am adding to it. We also needed a caduceus and finally found a uniform shop that would make the emblem. It turned out pretty nice, and it will make a great addition to the costume! Maybe after I get his done, I'll have time to make my cape, we'll see!

My thoughts

2009-09-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

These are some of my thoughts I shared on a news story about Paul Cardall's recent heart transplant. Someone made a comment about how we can be grateful for trials the Lord gives us with a diseased heart and other such trials. These were the thoughts I shared, to hopefully make a difference in that person's life.
___________________________________________________________________

I am one who is grateful for my health. I had surgery when I was 5 years old to repair a VSD. I now am the proud mother of seven and grandmother of seven. I am listed as a donor and one of our daughters, who passed away 7 years ago was able to be a tissue donor. I know what I felt after Hanna's death, when I was asked if we wanted her to be a donor. My response was an immediate "Yes!". I knew that during her short life, living with her disabilities, her favorite thing to do was to help others, so she would have chosen this, no doubts at all!
Sometimes in life we have to wonder why we were given these trials. Sometimes it is for our growth, and other times it is for the growth and blessings received when someone shows their unselfishness through organ donation! I am thankful for my life, and the doctors who made it possible for me to be a mother and to realize how important our sacrifices are.

Give Away

2009-09-25T05:27:00.000-07:00

Want a great new book to read. Check this out!
http://annebradshaw.blogspot.com/2009/09/give-away-author-shirley-bahlmanns.html

Some thoughts...

2009-09-21T06:28:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we had Stake Conference and it was so good. One thing that impressed me was when we had a Young Man speak who is the President of the Seminary Council. He shared such a beautiful and heartfelt testimony!

Anyway, he shared his feelings about a special assembly they did for Seminary and he called it the Iron Rod Assembly. I think it was arranged by the teachers. He said on the day of the assembly, they were only letting the students in one or two at a time about every 30 seconds or so. When he got his turn, he walked into a totally pitch black building, except for a glow stick by the end of a rod (made out of PVC pipe). Once he started following the rod, with his hand on it, there was no light. He followed the rod for a while, and after a while he came to someone who said to come in and play the Wii. He chose to go on. Then another person wanted him to go see a movie. There were other temptations along the way as well. He held on and kept wanting to tell his friends who strayed to hold on, but some wouldn't listen. When he finally got to the end, he came to a room filled with light. He was welcomed there by the Seminary Principal. He was very affected by this whole experience, I could tell in his remarks.

They had rooms along the way where the temptations were set up, like the Wii and a movie, and other things. It sounds like the rod led all around the Seminary building.

This sounds a lot like something I did on a ropes course several years ago, but outside, and we had to put on blindfolds. We were told it was a silent event and to hold onto a rope. That rope led all over and wrapped around trees and through bushes. We were given an egg to carry, early on our trek, and told to pick something important to us for it to represent and keep it safe. We followed the rope for a while, when someone asked if he could hold our egg for us, or said come with me, and I'll take you to the end.. I remember feeling that my egg represented my family and how I couldn't let anything happen to them. I fiercely held onto that egg and wouldn't listen to the tempters. I struggled to follow the rope, even through knots and wrappings on tree trunks. At one time, I allowed someone to put my hand on the next line, when it got really confusing, but it was hard for me to let go of the rope. They were true to their word, and helped me. When I finally got to the end of the rope, we had been told to hold out our arms and someone would be there. I did and was immediately given a huge hug and told "Welcome home!". I equated this with returning to our Father in Heaven and was overcome with emotion. I was led to a circle of logs and helped to sit down. There was soft music playing and when I felt someone else who had finished and placed next to me, we hugged and held on to each other tightly and did the same as others were placed by us. Still no speaking allowed. We sat there until our group members were all done, at which time we were allowed to take off our blindfolds and share our feelings. Tears are coming to me now as I relive this experience from 15 years ago!

What a day!

2009-09-10T15:58:00.000-07:00

We decided before coming to Las Vegas, that we wanted to go to the Las Vegas Temple, so that's what we did this morning. We got there and got ready, but we just missed the 8:30 am session, so we waited for the next at 9am. We were quietly sitting there, and one of the brethren came up to us and asked us to be the witness couple. This is the first time we have ever had this honor, and all because we missed the other session. There weren't a lot of people in the session, and very few couples. That may be why we got picked. It was a very spiritual time and I spent a lot of time praying for the sister who's work I was doing. Her name was Molly Legan, born in Kansas in, I think 1841. I may go to family search to see if I can find out more about her. Peter's name was Gustave Gaston, with no further info on the slip. I read an article by Susan Corpany Curtis on Meridian earlier that showed how important family stories are in helping you to know an ancestor better. I have written some in a journal over the years, but I know I need to write more. Blogging is a good way to do that. Families are forever!

Joanne's blog

2009-09-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

Here's Joanne's blog:
http://www.authorjoann.blogspot.com/

I won something today!

2009-09-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

I just found out that I won a beautiful painting by author and artist, Joanne Arnold. I am so excited! I think it's the coolest thing I've ever won. If you want to see what the painting looks like, go to her blog.

2009-09-02T07:01:00.000-07:00

We had a great day on Saturday at the Dinosaur Park in Ogden, UT. We went for Taylor's 3rd b'day. I think the funnest time was when we went into the room with the animatronic dinos and saw the reactions of the Grandkids! Jaiden and Cohen were first, and they were a bit frightened at first, but we were able to convince Jaiden they were not real. He was really getting into watching them, and Cohen just followed suit. Then Madi, Lani, and JJ came in, and Madi was very intrigued. Lani took a bit, JJ was all "Fine by me" about them. I was very surprised by Taylor's reaction, because he loves dinosaurs. He was terrified and wanted nothing to do with them. He was not going to stay in that room! So, Justin took him out and walked him around other areas to calm him down and let him know it was all pretend and not real. Justin took Taylor back up about 15 minutes later and Taylor did fine. He was very into the dinos after that all through the park, even pretending to be a dinosaur. It was so cute!

On, Sunday following this trip, our Bishop was talking to a combined Priesthood and Relief Society Meeting and was talking about keeping journals. He mentioned one entry kept by his Grandfather on something the Bishop's father did as a child and it reminded me of something Cohen did at the museum, and I felt I should probably write it down.

We were done with the upstairs in the museum, and needed to take the elevator down, since I was pushing Stephanie's stroller for her. Madi, Lani, Jaiden, Cohen, and I got in with the stroller, which took up most of the space and we started going down when suddenly the alarm went off, and when I looked down,Cohen had pushed the button! It was only for a second, and it didn't cause any problems, but it sure got our attention!!! I think the staff there kind of expect that button to get pushed at least once a day, because they didn't even look up when we got off the elevator! It was kind of funny, and when I think back on it, it really makes me wonder why, in a place intended for children, they would ever put a button like that within a 1 year old's reach?? Someone didn't plan very well! We have the same problem at the Library with a fire alarm that can be reached by young children! Most of the time, it's unintentional, but it sure shocks the kid who did it!!!! Anyway, I just needed to record this incident for posterity's sake! I love my Grandkids and enjoyed spending time with all of them on Saturday, no matter what!

Temple Dedication

2009-08-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

I just got home from the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication and I just wanted to jot dwon some of my impressions.
It was such a spiritual experience and I really felt overwhelmed towards the end when we were singing The Spirit of God. I felt we were joined by the angels in heaven very strongly. I was not able to sing during the second verse because of my emotions. Over the years I have found I cannot cry and sing at the same time. Still True!
When I wrote the words "Temple Dedication" for the title of this blog, I was impressed with the way those words can mean two things. One about the actual dedication ceremony and the other about our dedication to Temple service. I want to go serve in the temple more often than we have been. I feel the need to. It is such a wonderful place to be. You can forget the cares of the world for a few hours. We really need to go at least once a month! I mean, we now have about 8 temples within an hour's drive!!! Five in a half hour, so we have NO excuse! Our bishop or Stake President once said to make your date a trip to the temple, instead of always going to a movie or dinner, or whatever else you choose to do. It's probably the cheapest date around!
I will do all I can to make this happen! I love being a Savior on Mount Zion for those who've gone on before, and my reward is getting to be in those hallowed halls!

My first book review

2009-08-22T05:23:00.000-07:00

Read it on goodreads.com

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6385389-a-winter-morning-s-sun

It is fun having a fast computer!

2009-08-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

I'm not really sure what I want to say, but I am sooo happy this 'puter is feeling so much better! It's been fun being able to do things and go plces it just wouldn't go for sooo long! Thank you Mark for your expertise! Anyway, I have tried to update my blog's look, although I'm not completely happy with it yet. How do I get rid of the pink around the banner? Anyone know? I ahve tried a couple of things, which didn't work. Well, I'll keep trying.
Right now I am reading the book, Star Wars: Clone Wars, which is based on the Animated movie that came out to intoduce the series. I find it interesting because you get a lot of what was going on in Anakin's head as he works on his demons from his past and present before he descends to the dark side. You don't get that in the movie. It helps to understand what caused him to fall. Very interesting.

I'm baaack!!!

2009-08-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

I'm Back!!!! It's taken a while, but we now have an updated, cleaned up 'puter that allows me to use my blog again! I plan on making some changes when I can figure out how and adding some pictures and whatever else more I can do to make this a fun place to visit. I will do an occasional book review, and let you know what's going on in my life and my family's. I am excited that I will be able to do this now! So, someone give me ideas of where to go to find fun things to do with my blog!!!!

Time flies by!

2006-11-27T06:47:00.000-08:00

I am amazed at how fast time seems to be going! I want to add to my blog more often, but the time just seems to get away from me.
This month has been fun. We got the chance to see Beauty and the Beast at Cyprus High School, and fell completely back in love with this show! I had seen it before, at the Shubert in LA several years ago, and then at Capital Theater in SL a few years after that. It was huge at the Shubert and about half that size in SL. This High School production was even smaller, but still great! I was able to take Madi and see it again at the Saturday Matinee. She totally loved it! We had a good time together.
The year is fast winding down, it's almost Christmas already! I hope we can get done what needs to get done before then, like the lights on the outside of the house. I love this season!

Things go on

2006-10-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened since my last blog, but most special of all was the birth of my newest grandchild, Taylor David Behling on August 30th, 2006. It was sooo amazing to be there assisting Stephanie as she was in labor and pushing. After all, she's my first daughter to give birth! I have 3 previous grandchildren, who I love just as dearly, but this was kind of special. I am so thankful she was okay about us being in the room with her. It wa a long labor, because she was induced and a lot of work, but when little Taylor came, it was very emotional for all of us. I was able to help by holding Stephanie's shoulders up for each push. Afterwards, I felt like I'd been doing pushups and my arms were sore for days, but I wouldn't have had it any other way. I am so thankful all went well and that the baby was fine. He weighed in at 8lbs, 12 oz, and 21 inches long. Heavenly Father is so kind and provides us with many opportunites to feel his presence, if we are in tune. I felt his presence throughout the whole miraculous event. Childbirth can definitely open the Heavens...Live, love and have joy everyday.

Life in the the 2000's

2006-08-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

I haven't been keeping up with this very well, so here I am trying to write something.

We were in Klamath Falls and Medford during July to be part of my family reunion and 80th birthday for my Dad. It was quite an event and all went well. We worked hard on the food, and discovered we will do things differently next time. We want to do it again in 2 years.

Found out my Dad has an abdominal Aortic Aneurysm that is about 3 cm in size. Operations are not performed until they are 5 cms. Even then, he is opting NOT to have the surgery, because he does NOT want to die on the table, which is the most likely scenario with his COPD and age. I don't blame him and I want to support him in this decision. But I found info on a much less invasive prcedure that has just been developed, where a material is placed inside the aneurysm by means of a catherization, which expands and blocks off the aneurysm. The doctor said he could live up to eight years, just think of the advances of medicine in that amount of time. Maybe this procedure would be just the thing for him. I hope he looks into it. I sent him a link for a story from a TV station here in UT. I guess I've done all I can for now.

My former BIL, Joe, had to have a quadruple bypass done last week after suffering a massive heart attack last Monday. He's doing well and really dodged a bullet. He was in the right place at the right time with the right person. A friend Matt performed CPR and kept him alive until the paramedics arrived. He was in the airport in San Diego, having just gotten off a flight there. He really is lucky it didn't happen while in flight, although they do have defibulators and such on board, but it would have meant a longer time until he got to the hospital. He's doing very well, and they expect a complete recovery. Thank goodness. Even though he and Dolly are divorced, he is the father of their children and a friend to us.

I guess that's all for now.

Life in the Library

2006-07-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

There's so much to learn. I keep forgetting how to do another blog. I hope this is right.

A little more about Hanna. She was our 6th child and was born 10 weeks early, weighing just 3 lbs. 9 oz and was 15 inches long. Kind of small next to our other children. She spent her first 7 weeks in LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, UT where she was born. She had many ups and downs while there. She struggled so hard to gain weight and to breathe on her own. She was a fighter through it all. I kind of knew she'd make it at that point, but I was also living in a bubble, believing things would be normal for her someday. Little did I know how wrong I was. I think most parents of very ill children want to believe their child will eventually be normal, it's one way of dealing with the actual grief you go through when you don't have the "perfect" child you had been counting on and dreaming of. I read somewhere, that parents of special needs children have to go through the same steps people do who have lost someone. Well, I guess I could say that it is so true, being in both situations with Hanna. Not only did we grieve for our "perfect" child, but we also had to do it when she died. I can honestly say, I was probably in the grieving state her whole life! There were so many times we almost lost her over her 19 years, and so many disappointments from her health questions, I was always having to rethink her capabilities and abilities to survive independently some day. Life was a constant struggle for her. This is all a concept I have never considered before, but I believe it is the Lord's way of preparing us for the possiblity of her death at an early age. Lots of things to think about.

Another Day

2006-07-13T06:17:00.000-07:00

I decided to try a color today for my blog. I am still learning how to do this and then I would like to try some of the fun things, like adding pictures and more. It's going to take me some time to learn it all.

I have only told my husband, Peter, about my blog, so far, and maybe that's because I just want it to be private for now. I am not sure of all I want to share in my blog. I was told years ago by the spirit that I need to write about things I know, so I guess that's a good place to start.

My experiences in life, and what I've learned over the years, like dealing with a child who has special needs... Hanna, our daughter who was born 10 weeks prematurely and had many health problems, including Autism. She taught us many things during her life of almost 19 years. I am so grateful she was a part of our lives, and I miss her dearly. I am thankful for my testimony of where she is. I know she's happier now without all the handicaps she had in life. She's gone on to bigger and better things.

Well, I think this will have to do for now, I've got to get ready for work.

First Time Blogger

2006-07-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess it's time to start. I think this may be a fun way to make comments about life and what's going on. I want to make it a journal that someone may read that will help them in some way. Besides, yesterday in church we had a lesson on Journals and I am more determined than ever to write down feelings and thoughts and events as I feel I should be.

I have a journal that I have been rocording events in over the last 30 or more years, having to do with my family. I plan to use this forum to do the same, maybe I'll be able to record events and feelings immediately this way.

The most recent event is the birth of our newest grandchild, Marlena HVN Firth. She was born on June 29th at 11:11pm at Pioneer Valley Hospital in West Valley City, UT to our son, B.J. and his wife, Melinda. She weighed 7 lbs 14 oz and was 20 inches long. We are soo excited to welcome her into our family. This is our 3rd grandchild and she is the new little sister to our 1st grandchild, Madison Rae Firth, who is 6 yrs old. Our only other grandchild at this time, is Jaiden Daniel Firth, born in December to our other son, Justin and his wife, Shadea. Later this summer, we are expecting our 4th grandchild, a boy, to our daughter, Stephanie, and her husband, Justin Behling. They haven't picked a name yet.

Well, I think I'll finish this now, so I can post it for the my first blog ever!!!