Dear Gerald, I loved the pictures. It looks fun and like it was a cold day. I froze iin S.F. every time that I went up there except once when I was in nursing school in San Jose. I can't seem to pull up the Quiz so I'll get Anne to help me. I'll get her to pull up Danny's pictures too. Tom has a computor and would like to be invited to Blogger. I had new brakes put on the car today. $149.00. That's the first money that I've spent on it rather than oil changes. Tom's Email address is tetontom@wyoming.com. I didnt think it would go through, but it did. Love to all, Grandma

Dear Katie & Danny, Anne told me that you had called today and that you would like to go to DelMar in September. Yes the Condo is mine in September and yes you can go. Just tell me the
dates, I don't think that Danny has ever been there so that would be nice for you. The weather is usually lovely in September

I enjoyed Danny's blogg re: Ohio. I'd like to read it in its entirety. Hope all is well & that Danny is enjoying law school.

Much love, Grandma

Way to go Val!!

I just loved picturing Ed run around frantic. That was well planned and fun to hear\read about. I was laughing out loud. Love you guys. Alison

Great Gag Valerie!

Somehow the only one that looked a little shocked when Jerry announced after scriptures this morning that I was expecting another little one was Joe. After a lapse of 5 seconds or so Liz said, "yea, right." Dave said, "nice try, April Fool's." So, I guess we've used up all our mean little tricks, but I never get tired of thinking of a big fat lie/joke...all in the name of a holiday. Yes, this is one of my favorite days of the year and always has been.

My love to you dear ones. I am looking forward to conference and family time. I will miss the Nydeggers. mom

Dear all,

Lisa Zimmerman had a baby boy today. As far as I know all is well. Hope all is well with you.
Alan arrived at the big 21 today. Love to all, grandma

Dear Katie & Danny,
Kelly and I really enjoyed seeing the pictures from San Francisco. The boys have really grown alot. In one of the pictures Isaac looked so much like your brother, Eddie. Glad that you had a nice time and returned home safe. I hope you have many more birthdays to celebrate, Danny. Kelly says Hi. Well, I'm off to bed to study my R.S. lesson for tomorrow. Mary Anne and Bob are in DelMar landscaping the back patio. Mary enjoys hard physical labor. I wish you could see my back yard right now. She has it looking beautiful---Many flowes in bloom. Kiss the boys.
Much love, Gramdma

Happy birthday Danny. You're Mr. Holiday! St. Patricks, and now this! Is there no end to the excitement?!?

Happy Birthday Danny! I hope it's the best one yet.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANNY! We love you and appreciate so much the sweetnesss that you bring to our family. All day long we will be thinking of you and your little family...wishing for an extra special day.

Dear Laurel,

I hope you had a wonderful 22nd birthday. I've been thinking about you all day. I have your present, just slow in getting it mailed. I started with a viscious migraine Thurday nite and didn't feel better until Sunday night. So I will get it mailed.

Tell your Mom that the condo is mine in July and September. So if your family wants to come and stay awhile I would be happy for you all to enjoy it. Mary and her boyfriend are going down to fix up the patios this coming week end. Anne and Alan were down there last week end weeding. There were even weeds growing out of the drains that the water drains out of the roof in.

I hope that you have many more happy birthdays and that we can get together this summer. I love you.....Always, Grandma

Dear Sam,

I did have that Radette. Dan Hirschi was visiting with a girl friend, yes, she was nice and pretty cute too. Ruth has one of those irons. That cheese was $l5. a pound. They cooked the cheese plain and then with a special kind of bacon. It was very good, but not good enough for me to buy that special iron. We had the potatoes too. Dan must have had that in Switzerland. Jim found the irons searching onf the computor. He and Johanna each bought one. Cost them $250. each. I really appreciate your research. The ones that I have found only make two at a time, but I think they are larger. The picture of the bratzalies looks the same as ours do.

Katie, those pearls were a personal wedding gift to you. I gave Alison and Laurel a piece of jewelery also. Sara and Lisa are both expecting this month. Lisa is having a boy and I can't remember what Sara is expecting. Sara has been feeling louzy most of her pregnancy. Strep throat, ear ache etc.

Sam you have a real gift for writing. Maybe you should take it up seriously. Your Dad does also and so does Cristie. When Mary was at Dixie her English teacher told her that she had potential also

Your Grandfather is really slipping. He complains of shortness of breath and chest pain. He responds very slowly. I don't know if he's overmedicated or if he' s slowly fading away.

I hope Jenny is making a good recovery and not in alot of pain. Got to get to bed. Love to all
Grandma

Here is a link where imported irons may be purchased:

http://www.shopswiss.com/bratzeli.html

For a real treat, buy one of these:

http://www.shopswiss.com/raclette.html

I only ate bratzelis once on my whole mission, and I spent plenty of time looking for them. It seems to be a Swiss tradition that is dying out. In antique shops I used to see old irons that were heated by coals. I didn't see any new irons, and the only Swiss company (Jura) that used to make the irons no longer makes them. Mom and dad have a Jura iron.

Raclette (second link) is a truly wonderful thing. Though none of you will likely run out and buy an iron, it would be a fun thing to try. Raclette is both the name of a cheese, and the name of a dish. When prepared on the streets, a wheel of raclette is sliced in half. The cut side of the wheel is melted next to a red-hot iron until the exposed surface begins to crisp and the layer below is melted. The street merchant selling the raclette will then scrape the melted layer of cheese on a plate of boiled red potatoes, ham, carrots, and other meats and vegetables. The plate is not complete until paprika is sprinkled atop the cheese, and two sweet pickles added to the side. With the home version, raclette is melted in little dishes, and the meat is grilled on top of the iron. If you want to try raclette in Switzerland, make sure to visit in the fall. The leaves begin blowing through cobblestone alleys, carrying the scent of roasted chestnuts and the coming winter. The Swiss call it the Foehn, and some of the older ones with glassy eyes will tell you how strange things happen when the Foehn begins to blow. There is nothing like this in the new world. Even at twenty-one, I knew this as I dreamt beneath a 730 year old roof.

S

Dear Sam, I loved your post, but don't shoot that dog. I am not aware of any previous problems with the heeler. Do they have a leash law in Salt Lake? If so jut call and complain and they will do something about it. Our neighbors were frequently called into court for Spot's escapes. He could climb over their 6 foot fence and impregnated many of the neighbor dog. There is still evidence of his genes in the neighborhood. As for your new calling you'll be able to do a great job. Some of the callings that we think we would like the least turn out to be a great experience. Heavenly Father always gives us what we need to do a good job. Unfortunately it isn't always comfortable to stretch to the occasion.

Mary Anne is still happy with her dental jobs and lucky that they are both close by. She's quite in love. I don't completely approve of him, but when did she or anyone else ever care about that?Anne is doing well at her job. It is really telemarketing. It's right up her alley. She can charm the spots off a snake.

Gerald is fading. He's been terribly confused, but still in the same place of confusion day after day. Yesterday he was completely straight. He had to sob when he thought about Wally Ord being dead. Maxine is dying also. It will only be days. Katie did I ever get you a bratzalie Iron? If not do you want one? Yes, Eddie I'm still working on yours. I Love reading the blogs from your all. Hope all is well with every one. Tell Laurel I love her. Love, Grandma

I have been too busy to blog much, or even think about things to write. Unfortunately, there is really not a whole lot of news to report. There is a relatively minor update in the saga with the heeler next door. He has come over to our place looking for trouble a total of three times. You know about the first time. The second time, I threatened to kill him. The third time (two days ago), he threatened to kill Henry. I started to research dog-killing laws, and discovered that it’s impossible to murder a dog. One message board I read said the following: “You can shoot dogs all day because they’re legally considered property… You can’t murder property.” I read a few other cases where unruly dogs were either the recipients of bullets or nasty shocks, and Utah’s dog statute gives any citizen the right to dispatch an aggressive dog.

So, I went to the gun store.
Gun store guy (Chuck): “Can I help you sir?”
Sam: “What load would you recommend for killing dogs?”
Chuck: “Has it really come to this?”
Sam: “I’m afraid so. What should I get?”
Chuck: “Well, that depends. Do you want to kill him on the first shot, or do you want to kill him with seven or eight shots?”
Sam: “Doesn’t matter. I want him dead.”
Chuck: “Well, I’d get the Glock model 22 in .40 S&W with hydroshock bullets. You’ll stop the dog in one shot (Chuck makes popping noise), and you’ll have extra rounds for the owner if he gets a little too upset, if you know what I mean.”
Sam: “Hmmm. But the dog’ll be gone, right.”
Chuck: Points finger like gun and makes popping noise again.

In all honesty, I took a few liberties with the conversation above, but it’s not all a lie. I’m going to leave it at that, and I’m not going to mention the heeler next door again. No, he’s not already dead.

On a note of eternal importance, they made me the Young Men President in our ward. This was a real shocker for everyone, especially me. I know our bishop pretty well, and I thought I had said and done enough to be considered a loose cannon. Everyone should know how much fun a loose cannon is. I made one once and nearly killed Brad Pack. We laughed for days. Anyhow, people are calling me now wondering what to do about this, and wondering if I can get the Young Men to do that, and I don’t ever have the answer. Last Sunday, I told someone to check with the Bishop, as he was the “real” president anyway. I have a lot of growing to do. Responsibility and growing are a lot alike. It’s stimulating to talk about, but it’s not that enjoyable, and it usually hurts.

Well, I’m off to scout camp tonight. Laugh it up.

S

*** This blog is dedicated to Grandma Lois ***

Dear Ones,

Great news Danny. I feel so proud of you. We've had some wonderful rain this week and I've really enjoyed it. Wally Ord died a week ago tonight. I was able to be wiith him some of his last hours and was grateful to say that the hospice nurses allowed him to die comfortably. His daughter Cheryl was with him. What a dear girl. His funeral was as nice as Jean Driggs'. Maxine propably won't last much longer. That cancer has been eating at her for years. She stayed alive to care for Wally. They are going to sell her house and move her to Pleasant Grove with Cheryl. We've got termites swarming in the house. I guess the rain drove them in. I'll have to do something about that!

Anne got a job this week. Not from the internet, Gerald, but from the newspaper. It's close and on my way to work. They raised her $2.00 an hour already since she started. Something in the food business. That ought to be right up her alley.

I'm trying to get Ruth & Dick & Dean to go on an Alaskan cruise with me this August. They all would like to go so I think that I may be successful. I haven't cashed in that CD yet.

Alan is going to be 21 next month and he is pretty excited about it. Jaimie's folks are giving them a trip to Hawaii. Her 21st birthday is today

I pray Laurel is safe , that you have all escaped the flu bug, and that all is well. No Blogs from Sam lately. I really enjoy his correspondence. Love to all, Grandma

Congratulations Danny! I love to get great news...especially on this snowy Utah day.
Katie I can really identify with your winter blues. I used to think if I could just make it through January and February all would be well with the world once more. Chin up dear girl and know you are loved.

Dear Ones,
Katie, Sara Zimmerman feels exactly the same way as you do about Michigan. She can't imagine who ever settled it why they ever did. We've had another lovely day here today--in the low 70's. The kids at school were pretty excited about Valentines Day. Anne & Kelly made some pretty heart cookies for me and fixed up cute Valentine bags for me to take to them and my teachers.

One of the teachers that has a complete class full of very disturbed children and many aids to assist him every day celebrates the holidays with a pot luck lunch. He is Hispanic and good looking and sounds exactly like Anthony Banderos. He made a big crock pot of chicken and veggies, and there were wonderful fresh green beans, a large green salad with every kind of veggie, Mexican food, delicious cheese cake, cupcakes, cookies and cold drinks. I think it's quite special of him to do this. None of the other teachers do anything like it. I get invited so Anne made that spagetti caserole that I made at the beach 2 years ago. They really liked it.

Anne has gone to the All Star game at the Staples Center, and Mary is off with Bob and
Jim and family are headed up to visit Johanna and kids. I liked living alone and didn't mind being alone, but now when everyone is off having fun I feel sorry for myself sometimes. It's dumb because I'm too tired to go anywhere anyhow.

It was great seeing you, Son. I truly love your quick visits. Sorry if I thrilled you too much with my driving. Everyday I pray that I won't hurt someone or myself.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY, AND I HOPE YOUR BIRTHDAY WAS THE GREATEST, LIZZIE,

Love always, Mom

I just received a letter from my grandmother. She usually writes one to the family each month. For those of you who don't know, my grandparents have been serving in the Missionary Training Center for the past year or so, and loving it.

My grandmother wrote of a story she heard at an MTC devotional the other night. I liked it and so I thought I'd share it:

"Elder Stone told about a talk President Hinckley had given to the general Authorities in the Temple. He said they had recently found a box of letters which included a letter he had written to his father when he was a returned missionary and working for the church. Elder Stone said he was probably at that time the one-man Missionary Department and the one-man Temple Department and Public Relations and Media or something else. Anyway, he had his acceptance letter to go to UCLA for his PhD and was excited to go. He went in to tell Elder Stephen L. Richards that he would be leaving his employment and Elder Richards said, 'Gordon, we just need you too much, please don't go.' [President Hinckley] was telling his father about his decision in a letter, and that his heart was pretty heavy about it, but that he had chosen to stay. He wrote to his dad, 'I wonder if I'll ever amount to anything.' Then president Hinckley said to the authorities, with his wonderful humor, 'I never got my PhD, but I've received 9 honorary doctorates from different universities, I've been all over the world, we have a wonderful family and a nice home, I even have a chauffeur to drive my car.' His message was 'Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you.' Our decision will be different ones, and our outcomes different, but the promise is the same for all of us."

...from my journal today.

Got up earlier this morning than I needed to because I wanted to make sure I got here on time. My little routine when I come to the Bay Area is to stay at a downtown San Francisco hotel where I can enjoy the city the night before my meeting, and then take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) from downtown in the morning to my meeting in Berkeley with the state. I like public transport. I'm less insulated from the city, feel more a part of it. And...I like to study the interesting characters.

I'm now in the McDonalds in downtown Berkeley. My meeting this morning is earlier than usual so I allowed myself extra time and got here too early.

Speaking of characters...downtown Berkeley must be headquarters. This McDonalds is always loaded with a bevy of freaks. One even works here, cleaning the tables and mopping the floors. I've seen her before and she's here this morning, using her spray bottle filled with cleaning liquid very liberally, eager to have any kind of conversation with the sane or insane customers, and if nobody is communicative, she has loud, colorful conversations with herself. I've seen other, mostly deranged customers yell at her for spraying them along with the table. I'll tell you, that can develop quickly into very spirited dialogue!

This morning I'm listening to a woman who looks like she's in her late fifties to early sixties tell a fellow seated behind me of an encounter she had with the cops last night. She peppers her description of the event with coarse profanity. I think she must be homeless because she refers to another guy who got beat up last night and then says "Wouldn't it be terrible to be educated and homeless?"

I wonder if, long after Cristie and I are gone, this is how Laurel might end up. From reading her journals, she is certainly capable of carrying on such diatribes as the one I've just listened to. And she seems to seek out friends similar to many who surround me here this morning.

But, I'd better go. The cleaning lady is working her way to my table and I'm not in the mood to be misted.

Nice to see you back on the blog, mother. Annie must have hooked you back up again!

I'll send you the pic of Cristie, Anna Lee and Bonnie when I get home. I'm in Scottsdale...have been here for three long days of meetings (and evening dinners). The weather has been nice. Cool and rainy. It's been nice to see a little sun after living in the inversion in Utah.

How is Kathryn feeling?

Hi
I did go to DelMar this weekend. It was wonderful and every time I finally get down there I wonder why I don't do it more often. The weather was wonderful and I could hear the waves at night before I took out my hearing aides. We went to TJ...Not many people buying & I saw very few carryinng packages. Down in Gomez's arcade about fifty per cent of the stores were closed..permanately it appeared. It was really quite sad. Cristie I found that store where you bought many of the dresses last time. He said he had only been able to get 9 of the dresses and he was asking $50. now. He said his wholesale pricce had gone up. We ate at a great Mexican restaurant in Old Town. I'm anxious to take you there. You can watch the ladies making the corn and flour tortillas there. Prices weren't bad and we really enjoyed it. Mary and I had been there the last time I was at DelMar.

Debbie's mom and a woman I work with were there with me. I said that I was going to church and I'd be gone about an hour and a half. They both wanted to come with me. We got there at 8 and it was stake conference. This was an earlier meeting for investigators and the newly baptized. I thought it was a great meeting for them. I hope that it planted some seeds. Bernice (the woman that I work with must have narcolepsy. She fell asleep instantly in the car, church, moviesl and at home watching TV. We saw the Movie The Big Fish, and she slept through so much of it she never did understand what went on. I enjoyed the movie very much. I think Albert Finney is a great actor, and his son reminded me of Jimmy Zimmerman (Eddie's Jim). I had to cry in the end partly from the story and because Albert Finney reminded me of Bob Stone. Well I've bored you long enough and I have to take me to bed. Gerald I never did get the EMail of Cristie and Anna Lee. Love your all, Mom

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas. We sure did. The snow was the icing on the cake - what a winter wonderland. My kids were also very fun and cute this year.

I don't know what everyone's plans are for New Years. It's that time of year again to share our family memories, and I thought it would be fun to do that on New Year's Eve before Katie and Danny head back to Chicago. Be thinking and writing. I love you all. Alison

This was in Vickie Smoot's talk on Sunday. I liked it so much I wanted to share it with you!

1. If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it.
2. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it.
3. He sends you flowers every spring, and a sunrise every morning.
4. Whenever you want to talk, He listens.
5. He could live anywhere in the unierse, and He chose your heart.
6. What about the Christmas gift he sent you in Bethlehem, not to mention that
Friday on Calvary?

Face it. He's crazy about you!

My love to you dear ones.

Happy Birthday Joe! I can't believe you are 16! LIke I said last night, I was dating Sam when I was 16 and you were about Abby's age. Time flies....
Have a great day Joe! Hope it's the best birthday yet!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSEPH!

The big 16 is here! Move over world and get ready for another Carter driver. Although this one promises to slow down and be a little more careful than the preceding six. Yes, we must count Laurel and her little escapades as well.

Birthday dinner here around 6.

Say your prayers for Danny and Katie as they travel that long snowy haul from Chicago. My love to you dear ones.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY VALERIE!

Today promises to be another wonderful, hectic, cold December day here in Utah. Our party for Valerie begins tonight at 6. I made a big pot of soup and ordered some bread bowls. We will have Snickers cheesecake and possibly another cake as well. I will make the yummy winter salad receipe that I got from Katie last year.

Come prepared to play games and travel safely.

Nothing goes right around here.

Most of you know what happened to Ada on Thanksgiving morning. As usual, Jack was finding great sport in chasing our child with special needs around the house. She tripped over her own feet and landed chin first on the midget table. Once again, kid blood all over the kitchen floor. Melissa rushed her to the bathroom to survey the damage. I wouldn’t have cared if I hadn’t been nearing the end of my shower. Privacy is important when living with pointing kids. I grabbed a towel and asked Melissa what had happened. She explained every detail, including the little yellow globules of fat coming out of the wound. I waited nearly an hour in the InstaCare for every stitch that girl got in her chin. The doctor on duty had a good laugh when I told him that I tried to butterfly Ada’s slice. I did take some pleasure observing all the other grateful people limping and coughing in and out of there. Not one single person in that whole building wanted to be there, and I found that somehow humorous. Bad luck in concentrate is even funnier from an outsider’s perspective I would imagine.

Melissa is at the at the doctor’s office as I write. I tried to remove Ada’s stitches last night, and the wound looked infected to me. To her credit, Ada has complained far less about this whole ordeal than I have.

For the record (Grandma Lois), the doctor said it was fine that I remove her stitches on the couch.

I have to run.

I can't believe it is already December 1. Time is just flying by. Thanksgiving was wonderful and a relaxing time. It is always so nice to spend time with family. I am growing at an unbelievable pace. I have five weeks left in my pregnancy and I am feeling more and more ready the bigger and more uncomfortable I get. Carter is still in the crib, and all the baby clothes are still packed away. I'm sure I would be more prepared if I knew the sex of the baby. I don't know whether or not to unpack baby boy or baby girl clothes. If I listen to my mother and Abby it would be girl. Doug on the other hand is convinced it is a boy and I would have to say I am feeling like it will be a boy as well. I guess time will tell. I am sure looking forward to the holiday season and spending time with you all. I am excited for the Nydeggers to visit and to see Grammy again. I love you all. Thanks for the wonderful reminder Mom. I am going to do better. Love, Alison

Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don't judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone's differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings, having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn't handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another's weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other. ---Elder Marvin J. Ashton

As we begin the hectic fun-filled month of December; I really liked Elder Ashton's reminder that the very best gift I have to offer is probably the one that is the very hardest to give. Luckily life gives us all ample opportunity to get better and better at offering this 'pure love of Christ.'

I am so thankful for my family. I love you and feel in awe of your goodness and desire and determination to improve and progress. We are moving in the right direction...I know because my joy is amazing and full. The Relief Society motto, "Charity Never Faileth" is as inspiring to me now as it was to those I have loved that have moved on. My prayer for us this December is that our faith will be increased and we will feel a deeper appreciation for our Father and His Son. Wear your seatbelts and say your prayers. :)

Hi Guys! Happy Thanksgiving to all! I'm over at Grammy's stuffed to my gills, and having a wonderful time reminiscing about old times with Uncle Tom and my brother Al. I thought I'd stop by the Blog for a minute and see how everyone was doing. Ed, congratulations on your acceptance to BYU! I'm so happy for you. That's just great! Are you excited? And Danny, I have to say you are such a great father. It seems like every time I get on here I read about you taking your children somewhere fun. That's wonderful! I miss you guys! I hope the all-you-can-eat was delicious! Sam, your stories constantly have me howling! And for the record, I was struck with the stomach flu this last week, and I don't ever remember being that sick! Thanksgiving dinner never tasted better! I hope this note finds everybody healthy and happy. I miss and love you all!!! Anne xoxoxoxo

As I read through the blog to catch up with everyone, I noticed a good deal of sickness making the rounds. As hard as I tried, I could not pass up the opportunity to complain about a cold that has become my constant companion. I have been sick since September 24th. That makes two honest months of watery mucus, and multi-textured phlegm. During this time, I have missed over two full days of work, and several other meetings and activities. This can all be officially verified in my planner. I conscientiously marked the 24th of September as being the first day of sickness.

Though the symptoms have waxed and waned over this period, sympathy on the home front lasted roughly forty-eight hours. That is a generous estimate, because I am allowing for the possibility of sympathetic sleep. To be fair, this is two full days of tender care Melissa didn't get after she ate Uncle Harry's sweet potatoes last year at Thanksgiving. When I should have been helping her out, I was busy making Uncle Harry jokes and rejoicing in my own health and vigor. I became a true believer in karma, because I was immediately slammed with the nastiest, most violent bug I had ever caught. It was a defining moment in my history of illness, and I knew up front that no care could be expected, and little would be given. That particular flu gave Melissa the uncommon luxury of instant revenge, and it cleared Uncle Harry's good name as well.

I hope everyone has a healthy and enjoyable Thanksgiving this Thursday. If you are traveling, drive safely, and avoid any eggnog that smells funny.

Kate, I know all about medical clinics and doctors in big cities at addresses that don't exist, but I've never had a crying sick baby with me when looking for one! I'm glad that worked out, and very glad to hear Eli is feeling beter. Joe is home from school today, Bishop Evans is home next door sick, so it's starting out to be a sickly winter season.

I woke up this morning remembering a dream, which I seldom do. In the dream, I was exasperated to find all the bathrooms in our house in use, so I hurredly went out to the toilet, sitting all by itself right next to the stairs in the garage leading to the kitchen area.

Seated to my task, I was soon exposed to the light of day, like a mole in a hole as the garage door opened (yes, I was naked). One by one, Alison and Doug, Katie and Danny, and for some unknown reason Cami Mcphee (Brasher) filed right by me into the house. Alison was horrified, Doug, Danny and Katie were quite amused, and Cami kindly avoided eye contact. I really could do nothing but sit until they had all passed. I wish I could remember what happened next, but that's it.

Dear Hearts:

I am feeling much better today. For whatever reason my head is swoony and heavy but Jer is the doctor and I'm sure I'll be feeling much better soon.

There's no place like home!

Yes I had an amazing experience in Africa. Yes I'm glad I went. But, even though it is cold and gray and the world appears to be in shades of gray...I am sooo happy to be home. Dear Lois, thank you for sending all of the medicine in anticipation of any illness that could arise. It wasn't until I got home that I needed to take something for the nausea, but was I ever thankful to have it. I thought alot of you on this trip knowing that you would love seeing and experiencing such a beautiful place. The people were so interesting, black, difficult to understand, kind, helpful, a little spooky only because we were the minority,...it's very hard to....well, picture this. It's Sunday and there are brightly colored umbrellas, every pattern that you could imagine, shading an African walker on their way to somewhere. It was a sight. Only one of many images that I hope to remember for the rest of my days.

Ed got accepted to BYU! What an example of goal setting and hard work!

Anyway, my love to you dear ones. I am so thankful to be home surrounded with meaningful work and responsibility. I love my man even more today than yesterday.
Sam and now Ed have treated us to two very amazing places in the world. You were both the very best guides and traveling companions and I will always treasure the bonds that I was able to solidify with your sweet wives. Life is very good to us. As you can tell I am feeling very thankful today.

Mary, good luck with the beau. Keep your eyes wide open:) It is good to hear that you are having fun and a reason to get all cutied up.

"As with all commandments, gratitude is a description of a succesful mode of living. The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude of blessings that continually surround us."--Elder James E. Faust

I am thankful for you. mom

If I could pick a place to serve, it would be in the primary.

Cristie is a bit better today. I think she might have caught an intestinal bug that has been making the rounds. Some in the ward have had it. I've felt a bit queezy my own self the last couple of days. If Cristie is going to be sick, I hate to be left out! But she's up and around this morning, albeit slowly.

Dear Ones,
So happy that you are home safe and that you had such a great time. I'm envious. Laurel called tonight. She sounds great and I was glad to hear that she still has her job. She told me that Cristie is feeling ill. If she's not greatly improved in a couple of days she'd better see the doctor. She might have picked up a bug over that and it would be best to treat it early.

Mary's romance seems to be progressing very much to her satisfaction. She had two dates with him over the weekend and phone calls every night. She says she feels very comfortable with him.

Laurel says you have a big storm on the way. It would be nice if we had a snow storm here. The last I can remember was 1949 and it snowed for 3 days. It was great.

Well I'm going to bed. Gerald doesn't seem to be feeling very well. He got new teeth and his mouth is very sore also complains alot about his back. He looks done in too.

Fell better, Cristie. Much love to all, Grammy

Danny, we liked both parts I and II of Frontier House. We watched them when they originally came out on PBS.

We arrived home last night at around 11PM. It was a long flight home and we're all still trying to get over jet lag. We had a full layover day in New York City, which sounds fun, but arriving at 7AM after flying for 17 hours took the play right out of us. Ed and Val took a bus into Manhatten for awhile, but there was a stiff November wind to contend with so they came back and joined us in the Crown Room at the airport.

I felt bad about missing Howard Eckersley's funeral. I called the family tonight. They said the service was upbeat and a celebration of his life. Howard had a dry, witty sense of humor and they said it came out in the remarks his two sons made.

South Africa is an amazing country. I was struck with how young it and all of Africa is. We think the U.S. is young, and it is compared to europe. But Africa is the next frontier.

Ed served as a great guide (his driving still needs work), introducing us to metropolitan Johannesburg, Pretoria, and most notably black townships.

Some of the townships are too dangerous to visit. Crime and poverty exist in all of them, but some are worse than others. We never felt in danger or threatened. Many waved at us and all were curious at the conspicuous carload of foreigners. A highlight for us was to have dinner in the home of a family Ed baptized. The "Mama" now serves as Relief Society president in the branch. Other highlights included attending the Johannesburg Temple and church in a township.

It was heartwarming and inspiring to worship with the black saints in their small building. It was odd to be singing Christmas carols with the hot sun blazing outside. A few of the children were barefoot. The parking lot was almost empty; Ed said many walk up to a half hour to attend. As I sat in Priesthood meeting, I could hear the children in another room in the building singing "Come, Come, Ye Saints", and it brought tears to my eyes. William Clayton, who wrote it was among the first company of pioneers to head for Utah, and that hymn is a part of our pioneer heritage. But as I listened to these sweet children singing in their interesting african accented english, I realized that they are the pioneers to the black people, the foundation of a very young church that will no doubt grow and flourish and become mighty. As a 5th generation descendant of those who crossed the American plains, I was humbled to be in the presence of latter day pioneers in Africa.

After visiting the Johannesburg and Pretoria areas, we headed for Kruger National Park. What a beautiful and exciting place it is. We stayed at two different camps in the park, in clean and well kept "family cottages." The camps were our base as we set out each day to see as many animals as we could. One of the goals of many is to see the "big five" which are the lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant. We were able to see each of those, in some cases many of them, along with giraffes, zebras, monkees, implalas, waterbucks, and many wonderful birds. It is a magical land and I am grateful to have had the chance to see it.

Dear Sam, Alison or Gerald if you are home,
Howard Eckersley died Tuesday. His funeral is tomorrow. I was going to fly up for it, but not knowing if you were back, Gerald, I decided that it would be too much of a hastle for Sam or Allison. If at all possible I would really appreciate it if one of you could represent the Carter family there. I am quite sure it will be in Sandy where they live. I don't know the time or place, but here is Connie's phone #. 944-3501. His heart just gave out..
I hope all is well with all of you and that the travelers have arrived home safe and well. Thanks so much if any of you can get there.
Love to all, Grammy
P.S. It was Gerald's birthday today. I don't know if he is glad or disappointed that he's 79--thought all day he is 80. He enjoyed your note, Gerald.

Dear Katie, It's awful to be cold. You know Montpelier is a very cold place. Mother said frost would be on our quilts in the morning from our breath. Our wet diapers would also be frozen. (They didn't have such a thing as a diaper pail in those days} It was a dry coldness, though, and when we would have visitors from Idaho after we moved here they would wsay they weren't that cold in Idaho. Your Mom used to complain of the dampness here also---in winter and in summer. I remember when you lived in PA. one year she had the thermostat tuned down so low that she wore a heavy jacket in the house. I think she said she saved about $300 on the heat bill and decided that it wasn't worth being cold all the time. You kids, however didn't get a cold all winter until things warmed up back there. When you came for a visit one winter it was cold here with a very cold wind blowing and I couldn't keep coats on you. I guess your blood had really thickened up. It sounds as though Danny is enjoying his classes and I'm glad. John Gates said that he endured three years of boredom. It sounds like an interesting neighborhood. Mary has a boyfriend. She has never acted as excited over one in her life. All the primping that goes on. I guess he treats her very nice and gentlemanly, so it's nice that she has something to look forward to besides AA meetings. Don't you like my paragraphing? Well I'm going to bed. Tomorrow is your grandfather's birthday---79. Pretty good for someone who was sure that he's nevery make it to 40. He told me that he'd like to die, but he doesn't know how. I told him that he'd know how when the time comes. Then about a week ago he decided he'd starve to death. I think that lasted about one day. Seriously, he hasn't been feeling very well and you can tell by looking t him that he doesn't. Take care---Love to all and I hope to see you at Christmas time. Tommy is marring Beverly the 19th of December.
Gramma

Dear ones, Anne finally got me back on Blogger. I received too much unsolicited help which completely removed me from all communication with you. I thoroughly enjoyed the last few Bloggs concerning canines. Shame on you Sam & Danny, although I must say that the sadist Carter humor gave me quite a chuckle. I'm closing with a poem that I cut out of the paper years ago. It touched my soul and I hope it adds food for thought for your day. Hope all is well with each of you.
"Young children use them with the hopes of adventure.The old use theirs for long happiness and love. And I use them in the respect and hope of remembrance of love and friendship. All of man is a prisoner of the wish." Dorothy Jean Hamilton Love to all, Grammy

There's nothing like being famous to yourself. I enjoy the luxury as well. I was about six when I kicked the mutt for fun. I had racquet balls stuffed in my shirt for muscles, and the little dog yelped and ran under the bed. Looking back, I was determined to kick something that couldn't tell, and Alison and Katie were already too old.

I babysat for a family that had a dog that looked like a crawling hairpiece. I saw the kids' dad whack the dog a few times with a newspaper, so I took all sorts of liberties when they were gone. That poor hairpiece couldn't do anything right.

It is no secret that I am not a fan of dogs. I frequently make fun of them, and I even kicked a little mutt once when nobody was looking. It would stand to reason that they would not like me either, but I figured the species to be too stupid to deliberately set me up as an object of ridicule. Looking back, I realize that I had fair warning. The neighbor’s dog barked all Saturday night, finally going to sleep as I left to worship his creator Sunday morning. I did little more than grumble a few choice words in a way that I hoped would not defile the Sabbath. Swearing on Sunday is sure to land one in hot water, especially right before church. All in all, I guess I had it coming.

It started like any other Monday morning. I was so busy thinking about work, I didn’t even notice the barking on the other side of the fence. Our neighbor was leaving at the same time, and we exchanged a few meaningless comments. At that moment, a heeler came tearing around the corner, and I instantly knew he meant business. There were sticks, trash, my neighbor and hundreds of other things that dog could have bitten. As soon as I saw him, I knew I was the only thing he cared about. He was baring his teeth and snapping as he charged. He didn’t even bother to look at my neighbor. I held out my hand to offer the proverbial olive branch. Had I left it there a second longer, I would have lost it. Branch withdrawn, I planted the best kick I could in his teeth. I was wearing Birkenstocks, so the kick was entirely ineffective. I had to “pull” my kicks to keep my shoe from flying off my foot. It was a dance I would have rather witnessed than performed. The dog had me bested, and he knew it. The owner finally showed up and gained control of the crummy little beast. I waited for the apology that never came, and she left without a word. Like owner, like dog, I guess. The worst part about it was the way that dog walked off. It was clear that he was completely satisfied with how his morning was turning out. He trotted back home, tail wagging in utter satisfaction.

Today is Tuesday. I wore sturdy shoes, and I kept the ice scraper close after cleaning my car. Perhaps the neighbor saw me take a few practice swings. I heard no barking, and I saw no dogs. Apparently the taste of a dog’s victory takes longer than a day to wear off. I’m nearly positive I will be caught defenseless when it does.

For the African travelers:

If you happen to get the chance to eat dog, be open-minded, and remember that they’re not eating the well-behaved ones.

For everyone else, I send my love.

oops! Her new AOL address is : loieatdelmar1@aol.com. Thanks!! Have a SUPER trip!! And make sure to enjoy all 24 hours of that flight!! Grammy wants me to tell you not to buy her a tanzinite because she already bought one yesterday. "But if you can fin a cute neclace with the animals carved on it, I'd love that!"

Uncle Bubby or whoever else can send invitations, can you please send Grammy another invitation on here because I'm over here right now and since Loie changed her AOL account to a new name, we can't have her password mailed to her. Thanks!!!

"We are all children, trying to spell the word 'God' with all the wrong blocks"
-E. A. Robinson

Thanks for the picture link, Danny. We all gathered around my computer this morning and enjoyed them.

Still snowing here. The kids tricked and treated last night in a wet snow. Numbers were down a bit, but the scones at Barkers have never been better.

Would one of you California bloggers please stop by and help Grandma get in to AOL? She called here for help, but since I don't use AOL (I wasn't here when she called), I doubt I could be of much help.

I stumbled on the following from Ed Abbey's Desert Solitare today. I read the book when I was about Sam's age and loved it. Abbey spent three seasons in Arches (before it became Arches) National Park, living in a trailer as a ranger, and wrote about his time there. By the time I read the book, I'd already spent a month of my life living primitively in the same area and developed a lifelong attachment to it's unique beauty and solitude. Re-reading this reminded me of why I love it there.

"What is it about the desert that distinguishes it from other landscapes? Is it the color, the grandeur, the spaciousness? Is it the silence, the simple clarity? Or is it the veil of mystery, the sense of something unknown, unknowable? The desert seems to be waiting---but for what? There is something about the desert that the human mind cannot assimilate. The best artists and writers have failed to capture it....Under the vulture-haunted sky, the desert waits---mesa, butte, canyon, reef, sink, escarpment, pinnacle, maze, dry lake, sand dune, and barren mountain. Even after years of contact.... this quality of strangeness in the desert remians undiminished."

"One can see, then, why 26 year old Everett Reuss, the author of On Desert Trails, disappeared into the canyon country of Southern Utah, never to return. Although living in cities has its advantages, and I do fine there, however, once I catch a whiff of juniper smoke, or a careless word or poem calls the desert to mind, I become as restless as a wolf in a cage."

On Monday, Cristie, Valerie, Ed, David and I are heading to a very different desert from those I'm used to. Stay tuned.

Hello, Carter family. Well, it seems that I messed up again. The list is revised, so please look it over again.

Thanks guys, sorry for being so confusing!

For all the Carter siblings, here is the list for Christmas this year. I just rotated the list from last year so that everyone would be giving to someone different this year. If you all want, I will continue to keep track and rotate it every year.

Sam gives to Dan
Melissa gives to Elizabeth
Alison gives to David
Doug gives to Valerie
Katie gives to Ed
Dan gives to Ali
Ed gives to Katie
Valerie gives to Joe
Laurel gives to Sam
David gives to Laurel
Joe gives to Melissa
Elizabeth gives to Doug


Let me know if this works okay for everyone!
Happy Day to you all!

What a game. Go Marlins!

Happy Birthday Ed. May you age as well as I have.

Happy Birthday Ed! I hope it's the best one yet! Have a wonderful day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR EDDIE. It was almost the end of the day and very blustery and cold in Lansdale Pennsylvania. I was vacuuming and needing to pause every now and then just to get through the contractions. You were due about a week earlier so I was good and ready to welcome you into our family. Angie had been with us about a week so it was almost time for her to go home...and still no baby. Well, at 11:35 you made your grand entrance and all of our lives will never be the same...only better. Happy Birthday dear boy and know that you are loved. mom

For a guy that claims complete neutrality in matters concerning organized sports, I have sure spent my fair share of time watching the teams I'd like to support blow it. Now that the Cubbies and Red Sox are gone, my baseball season is more or less over. I guess I should be happy that the Cubs didn't stink this year like most other years.

www.firecrowton.com is great. I got on there and entered a bogus name and email address, and made all sorts of senseless comparisons and allegations in my bid for Crowton's removal. Of course I don't know what I'm talking about, but maybe someone will start a petition, and just maybe we'll have another fun-filled recall election. If it comes to that, I'll be voting for Robert Redford as BYU's new Head Coach. At least Bob votes.

* * *

Color is slow to leave the mountains in October this year. Olympus was fire this morning as sunlight lit its ridges from the south. The day framed the essence of fall, and I needed to wet a line. Dad and I found the Provo alive as the memories that seem to live there, and we fished along the cabins. I caught two rainbows and a brown. All were healthy, and all were beautiful. Only a breath ago, I caught my first Provo brown this time of year in 1994. The date was September 14. Exactly one week before I left for the MTC. I thumped him on the head and wrapped him in grass. That evening, I cooked him on a grill at a cabin at Sundance. DK, DJ and a bunch of girls watched as I ate every last bite. I offered to share, but there seemed to be something wrong with eating something with its head still attached. The white eyeballs didn't help either. I remember how that trout tasted for some reason. I wonder now if it was really the taste of a great childhood about to end.

Dad caught two fish, and we both had an unfortunate encounter with a jerk. All in all, it was about as good as it gets on a Saturday on the Provo. I'm sure the other guy is writing about his encounter with two jerks, so I can rest at ease knowing that my day was better than his.

Twas one day in seven. Five others are still being spent at QSI. Just two weeks ago, the new dog took a dump right outside my door. She's a chocolate lab, and she didn't even have the decency to keep it in one place. Makes me wonder what's so darned important that causes an animal to deficate on the run. The negative air pressure in my office sucked the stench in and held it hostage for about an hour. If there is an animal with less self respect than a dog, tell me about it, but keep it at bay. I believe more than ever that there will be plenty of dogs in hell.

Well, back to Perry Mason with Eddie. He says it's a "great show," and I'm curious to find out how he came up with that.

S

When Pedro Martinez walked off the mound in the eighth inning with the game tied, I knew the Red Sox were going to lose. There went the best pitcher in baseball, succumbing like so many Red Sox who have gone before to the Curse of the Great Bambino, this time in the very House that Ruth Built. What a game.

Visited with my Dad (and mom) tonight. Had many laughs with my Dad and hopefully cheered him up a little. It's good I got there when I did. My mother was feeding him dinner, and had that irritated look on her face. She was mad at him for leaning over too far, making it difficult for her to feed him (he winked at me once as he did it). He said she had just threatened to walk out of there and go home unless he stopped it. He didn't stop, and she didn't go home.

The cameras focused repeatedly on the stunned, muted fans after the eigth inning. Some were muttering under their breath, others were hanging their heads and covering their faces.

"The best of healers is good cheer."

-Pindar

Awwww...those Cubbies! And as for the Sox, maybe they are yet beset with The Curse after all.

Well, it was a week ago today that I called Mom in tears about my first helping at school experience. Each Wednesday a friend and I trade kids and take turns helping at school, so every other week I have the opportunity of helping in Abby's class. Everything went well in the classroom. I was impressed with those kids. They have to really listen and pay attention, I found myself asking one of the students what was supposed to be happening. It wasn't until class was dismissed for recess that I got my first big blow as a Mom who thinks their kid is absolutely wonderful. I watched from the window as Abby went up to a group of kids to play and they all walked away. She then went up to two other girls to play with them and they ran away from her, she ran to catch up and they ran away again. I watched her just stand there with her arms folded while the teacher asked me if Abby was having trouble at recess. I said that it looked like she was having trouble finding someone to play with. Abby came in and got her teacher for help. It didn't seem to affect her too much, but I hurriedly left the school with tears running down my face. It was a much harder day for me than it was for her. When she came home I asked her about her day, and she began telling me how great it was, and never once mentioned this playground episode. I hope she can always keep her confidence and happy disposition. I remember when I was having social trouble in 6th grade, Mom telling me just wait till something like this happens to your kids - it's way harder for the mom. That's for sure. Katie and Melissa - treasure these days when you have your kids to yourself all day long. I find myself watching the clock for Abby to come home just to find that she wants to leave and play right when she gets home. I love you all and hope all is going well in your homes.

The perfect period on a conference weekend for me was "Our Town", by Thornton Wilder on PBS last night. Cristie and I, Sam, Dave, and Lizzie watched it together (Ed and Valerie watched a little, and Joe was in and out).

It's one of my favorite American plays, familiar to me from my college days. Paul Newman did an excellent job as Stage Manager, and the other actors were equally up to the task.

Dave said he thought it was a little strange, but he stuck with it. And when I asked him about it today, he admitted he has thought about it several times, which for me is an indication it made some kind of an impression.

Because of the play, I have lived today more completely and fully than most. My day was nothing special; the usual phone calls (four hour teleconference), e-mail, etc., but I took notice of some of the little things. The beautiful color in the mountains, the crisp, cool morning, and the friendly afternoon. I actually really looked at a few faces of both strangers and those I love. I listened and felt more than I usually feel. And I plan on doing more of the same tomorrow.

I havent written on the blog for ever. I am so excited for halloween its gonna be fun. well yesterday mom and I got all of the halloween decorations out and then while the boys were gone we went to wood we ever and let be tell ya mom baught quite a bit of stuff she baugt a halloween witch, a bee pillow , a cool santa and this pot sort of a thing.
and then we went to GAP but they didnt really have much cute stuff. and then we went to the childrens place (all that stuff is for little kids) and then we took a peek into Gyboree(little kid stuff)

Well, today is your dad's big day! He's off to Montana to fish and Spencer Kirk is the pilot. As you can imagine...he was more than just a little bit excited. It looks as if six or seven guys were invited to a one day fishing trip so let's hope they catch the big one.

Little Carter came to our house yesterday afternoon while Ali and Doug host some business people downtown last night through this evening. Our little guest has been delightful and Liz has been quite the helper. She is crazy about the little ones that come and I love her help.

It's hard to believe that another weekend is here. I bought a case of peaches last week and we are all out so I will be at the farmers market tomorrow morning to load up with some more fruit. I don't know when I have ever enjoyed the produce as much as I have this season. I have a pumpkin spice candle burning down in the kitchen and it really has the smell of the harvest season.

Kate I can certainly identify with the early to bed theory when the day gets a little long. Keep up the good work dearie you are "laying the foundation of a great work, and out of small things proceedeth that which is great." I am so proud of you girls and wonderful mothers that you are. Always I am inspired as I watch you mother your little ones. Heavely Father is ever ready to give you a boost. That fact I have experienced many times over.

My love to you all. I received a postcard from your uncle Nate yesterday and he was on his way home from London. The front of the postcard had an ariel view of Picadilly Square. Amazing. He is anxious to get home to his own bed. There's no place like home:)

Bob Hook is in the hospital in Reno with a left coronary artery that is almost completely blocked. I had a business trip to Reno planned for Monday and Tuesday that he knew about, so he called me Sunday Night to say he was too busy for us to get together while I was there. He then told me he had been having chest pains. I told him to get in to see a doctor the first thing Monday morning, and made him promise to do it.

The doctor did an EKG on him, which was not normal, so after conferring with a cardiologist in Reno, they took him up there by ambulance to the hospital last night. They planned to do angioplasty on him this morning and put a device in his artery to open it up. I was able to give him a blessing last night in the hospital, but haven't yet heard from Donna on how things went. I'll keep you all posted.

Now, to change subjects, I hope some of you have had the pleasure of catching some of the PBS films on "The Blues" the last few nights. I saw one last night and was absorbed, not only in the music, but in the filmmaking. I highly recommend you all see as much of these specials as you can. Creative insight into truly american music.

Danny--- happy to hear your Stipula is working better. It must be the higher humidity. I still haven't received back my re-worked pen. The Stpulas are too beautiful to give up on!

Happy Belated Birthday Alison and Carter! Hope it was a glorious one!!
Love You All and Miss Ya Too!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALISON AND CARTER!

Greetings all:

Danny, I am excited (and a tad bit jealous) for your experiences. Katie, if you can manage to find a movie that shows a Harry Potter character getting eaten by a monster, you may get your Isaac back again. I’ve yet to meet a kid that wants to be called Lord Farquaad.

Just a few words to keep everyone on the same page regarding my travels of the past week. As most of you know, I had an interview with Pfizer on Wednesday. If you haven’t heard yet, you now know firsthand that it could have gone better. I would feel much worse if Des Moines had impressed me with its endless beauty. I flew into St. Paul/Minneapolis airport just as the sun edged over the horizon. From the air, I observed countless lakes, trees, and farmland as far as the eye could see. I was pleasantly surprised. I thought Iowa and Minnesota could not be much different, but as I flew south, I watched as the landscape grew uglier and uglier. From thirty thousand feet, it really looked like they had to try to keep the lakes in Iowa from creeping (or leaking, or whatever lakes to do relocate) north to Minnesota. When the lakes are trying to get out, one questions the wisdom of moving in.

As I landed at the Des Moines airstrip and walked across the tarmac, I remembered my single instruction: “Look for the silver Intrepid.” In any other major airport, this could be a challenge. In Des Moines, there were about six cars waiting in the loading area, and a dozen or so people milling about. If it hadn’t been for the occasional roar of a jet engine, I would have thought I was at a train station in Sleepyville. I know, I was only there for seven hours. How can one justly judge a town with so little time? I soon spotted the silver Intrepid, and off we went to lunch.

The interview was OK. Sure, I like college basketball fine when there’s absolutely nothing else to do. Mark seemed to live for it. Throughout the interview, he spoke of players, teams and coaches I should have known. He has a son that plays college ball in Montana. I had a difficult time connecting, and there was little “synergy” throughout our discussions. After all, if he only had one trophy in his cabinet, at least he has one! I guess I have one too, but I failed to mention that my experience with the Padres (and organized sports in general) taught me that one can thoroughly stink at a sport and still take first place. As I said, the interview was no better than fine. Dad said I could have read it wrong, and that would be entirely possible. If I get called to go back, you will all know.

Mark dropped me off, and told me that he would let me know about the position after he reviews some other candidates. I will continue to put my best foot forward. I must be doing something right if I managed to make an unusually favorable impression with his boss. Either way, I am fine with how things have turned out. To tell you the truth, those lakes made me nervous.

I arranged a climbing outing in Big Cottonwood Canyon this morning. This year’s outing was far better than last year’s. It was cool and beautiful. On some days, it seems that the sun just shines a little brighter on me than anyone else. Today was one of those days. We climbed three routes, and I did not have the feeling of impending doom that I had last year. Believe me, feeling like you’re going to fall to your death at any moment will ruin any chance of fun. Today was different. I climbed well, and felt light. So light, I realized at the end of the day that I had left my climbing shoes somewhere along the trail. Just when I concluded that it was time for new shoes anyway, the old ones turned up, and the three of us rode home together like old friends.

Will I really be able to leave these mountains?

Sam

Dear Hearts:

I have loved hearing about the steins, Tarzan and the boys in Las Vegas. (I thought for sure you boys knew that you would both be there at the same time; otherwise I would have mentioned it.) Girls, I am so happy that conference is tomorrow evening and we get to spend some real quality time together. Let's get together at my house at 5 and then we can go to Barbacoa for dinner.

I had my hour of power with Counting Crows today so 'paved paradise to put up a parking lot' is running through my head. I'm headed down to the RS building in SL hoping to get a clue about what I should be doing. Tonight we are taking Bob and Audree out for Bob's big 60th birthday celebration. Audree called to say he is pooped, but she plans to talk him into it. I have a reservation on the patio of Frescos at 6:30.

Danny you painted such a neat picture of your orientation...I loved hearing about the seating chart stuff. Oh, I hate to be the one to say the dumb stuff!:) I love you all and feel honored to know and love such fine people.

love, mom

Danny, I'm happy for you that you got both the Steins. Do they both wear ill fitting, non matching, hopelessly out of style clothes or is that too much stereotyping?

I'm in Sin City (Las Vegas) tonight. Imagine my surprise as I was standing waiting to board my flight in SLC this morning to see Ed walking up to me. He was on my same flight, and is also down here on business for the auto auction. We sat together on the flight, and hooked up tonight for a nice steak dinner here in town. It's been fun for me to spend some time with my son when I'm usually so bereft of family on my business trips.

95 degrees today here. I enjoyed my work, gaining strength of attitude and energy as the day progressed (my usual pattern). I wish I could bound out of bed ready to go in the morning like Cristie does!

Watched a bit of the USA women's soccer team beat Nigeria with Ed early this evening. Go USA!

hey katie...hows harry?! you two girls are surely hysterical! (you and melissa). im not sure what id do in the case of the charging child...good luck katie.

The heart of Autumn must have broken here, and poured its treasure out upon the leaves.--Charlotte Fiske Bates

Well Katie, it sounds like a regular adventure at the Nydegger household. Like Isaac, Eddie went through a name-phase-thing. He would only answer to "Zelda", and always introduced himself as such when we were out. This raised a lot of eyebrows. Evidently, not many grownups play Nintendo and so they never suspected that "Zelda" might not be his real name. Surprisingly though, most men, even grown men, knew exactly what he was talking about. They always made sure to point out that "Zelda" is the Princess, and that, surely he must be thinking that he's "Link" the boy hero in the game. Eddie loved the attention. I love having little boys!

As for Eli, it's hard for me to imagine that darling little bald head charging after his mommy with all that fury! Does it crack you up or are you reaching near-insanity?

Katie, you are such a good mommy. I can tell you are doing an amazing job adjusting to a brand new situation. I have a tremendous amount of admiration for you!

It's so good to hear from everyone. It sounds like you are doing well Miss Anne-Marie! Glad to hear it. Nothing motivates a girl to get to work on time like a hunky boss!

I better get going or I may have to tell another bloody story! Have a great day everyone, love you all.

Hey Everybody!!!
It's my first REAL Blog! Thank you, Uncle Bubby, for my invitation to blog, as I will be frequently keeping in touch with my cute family I love so much!

I think this is the hottest I remember it being in a long time for being so late into September...I pity those kids that have to try to learn in those hot classrooms. Hmmm...maybe that's what's wrong with me! Haha...

I have started a new part-time job working as a medical assistant to a weight loss surgeon in Oxnard a few days a week and I'm loving it! I don't know what's better - walking into an even better-looking version of E.R.'s George Clooney every morning, or seeing these patients go from 400 pounds to half that size in just a year. It's really quite amazing to see the growth of technology these days...makes me wonder what they'll figure out next!

Tommy is doing great in school so far. He comes home with a report card at the end of every week, and he's had A's for 3 weeks straight. I'm so proud of him! I think he's very proud of himself too. Hopefully he'll use that as motivation and keep it up!

Kelly is zipping right along like summer never happened. She gets her week's worth of homework done by Tuesday night, and I hardly ever see the little chickadee anymore! She certainly has discovered the power of her bike, and how you can go just about anywhere if you're up for the peddle! She must get that from her mother!

I hope all is well with everybody! I miss you all and love ya too!

Melissa, you've inherited your mothers gift!

Well, things are pretty much the same ol' thing around here.... one near death experience after another. It's amazing that anyone lives to be 3 years old really (especially on my watch). The adventures of this week have included the following....

Ada, as she continues to grow, continues to be able to reach new heights and consequently, higher drawers and cupboards. She found an old bottle of meds at my mothers yesterday. I noticed that she was spitting something out onto the floor saying, "yuk" and "blah". I turned around and promptly ordered her to quit making a mess on the floor. And then I noticed the pill container she had in one hand - and the "childproof" lid in the other. My heart sank as I read "Percocet" on the label. It was pretty old and there only seemed to be one left, because the bottle was empty, and Ada was spitting out what she had. We called Poison Control and then spent the next 3 hours observing Ada’s behavior. It was difficult to decipher “loopy” behavior from Ada’s everyday behavior. She kind of wobbles back and forth anyway, and is always falling down with a goofy grin on her face. She was keenly aware of the grown-ups’ concern and played along with the drama. Every time someone asked her how she felt she would say, "I'm tired.... medicine" with a very serious expression.

Jack nearly made it to the Emergency Room today. I'm glad he didn't, he's a regular there and that doesn't say much for his mother....
Anyway he was playing Horsey, riding on Eddie's back. Now, I didn't see what happened. But from what I heard I would guess the Horsey decided to turn Bronco...
I heard a scream and then I heard Eddie say "Whoa, that's a lot of blood". I ran in there and made high-pitched inquiries. Eddie told me about "Horsey" and said Jack landed on Ada's dress up necklace. I knew this story was true because when I cleaned him up, I saw 3 bead-sized bumps on the back of his head.
He was still bleeding, so I had to cut his hair to see how deep the cuts were. By the time I got to the heart of it I saw that it wasn’t too bad, but now he had this big bald spot that looked ridiculous. So I took out the “buzzer” and shaved off those sweet, fuzzy little curls. It nearly brought me to tears. Now his mournful little face looks even more precious and worried. I’ll have to send pictures….

So that’s been my week. I’m off to a wedding in a few hours. My mother has been asked to marry some family friends. She became a minister over the Internet so that she could legally perform the wedding. She feels really silly about it. But I can see why they asked her to do it. She writes so beautifully and is such a devoted friend. I can’t wait to see it. I’m always so proud to see my mother being so brilliant!

I didn’t realize that this was going to be a Super sized Blog…. Oh well. Have a Great day everyone!

Why is it that I find myself nodding when Danny asks if there is anyone in there?:) I am looking forward to going to the temple tonight with my dear hearts. I have loved this week and the feeling of change in the air. It has been a reflective morning for me because Nate sent me a poem that really unleashed memories and emotions that totally caught me off guard. It is so amazing to me that someone can string together words in such a fashion as to have that kind of an impact.
I really enjoyed seeing photos of Danny and Katie's apartment, area, children...etc. It is a little easier to conjure up an image of just how things look.
Tomorrow we're off to a BYU football game. Nothing quite like autumn in Utah. My love to you all. I am very blessed and happy. mom

Hello! I'm home. Lonely at home, but making it through.
Doug gets home Sunday night. I have really missed him.
It's been a busy full week which helps, and I am so thankful for my kids, because without them, the house would be quiet and a lot lonlier. Some trips Doug has been on have been easier than others for me. This one has been long. I have been thinking a lot of my friend who also has three kids. Her husband travels all the time. He is gone for 10 days and home for 2-4, then leaves again for 10 days. I don't know how she does it. I love you all, and love hearing Chicago news. See ya later. Alison

Thanks for all the history Danny! Keep it commin' will ya?! Kiss Katie for me. Love,Mary

That was some sheep.

Cristie took Joe to his first banjo lesson last night. He's got a cool rental instrument here at home now, and unlike other instruments that will go unnamed (cello, violin), I don't mind at all listening to him practice. I guess any banjo is music to my ears. He's really excited. He wants to progress to the point where he can play with Sam, Dave and me. Who knows, maybe we'll hit the road. "The Carter Family Redux."

Anne, I'm sending you an e-mail inviting you to the blog, so check your inbox.

Hi everyone,

All is well in the Brasher household. Doug just took off for Alaska today for the next 10 days. I will really miss him, but I'm happy he can go and hope he has a great time.

Abby is doing great in first grade, she comes home each day singing some pop song that she's learned or doing a cheer. It's amazing how much kids pick up from other kids. She's playing soccer every Saturday morning and is real cute to watch. She starts out each game kicking the ball in the wrong direction. I'm taking her to the dentist this afternoon. She's got a cavity and is getting her front tooth pulled so the new one that's growing in the roof of her mouth can hopefully move forward. She's going to make me want to smile every time I see that cute grin.

Gracie is doing great. She started pre-school this week and was so, so excited. Her teacher said she is a great listener which leaves Doug and I to wonder why she doesn't share this talent at home.

Carter keeps us all busy. He's talking more and more and is a lot of fun. I love age 2.

I'm poking out more and more. With the cool weather we've had the last couple of day's I realized that it's time for me to get some maternity clothes. I hate spending money on stuff that I just don't feel or look cute in. I guess that's why I put if off for so long.

I love you all - I'm glad to hear Katie, Danny and the boys are doing so great and that the Fair was a great success this year. I love this time of year. Talk to you all soon. Alison

Hi Katie and Danny!!!
It's everyone's favorite cousin...ANNIE!!!! I'm so glad to hear your darling family got to the Chi Town safely!!! I've been thinking about you guys quite frequently and luckily I got a chance to peek at the blogger today so I thought I'd say hi!! I'm posting under my mom's name cause I don't have a blogger account - I'm not cool enough! Haha! Anyway, Katie, here's my email address. If you get a minute, drop me a line..I'd love to hear from you or anyone else in our cute family who'd like to help out my ego (THAT'S A HINT, GUYS). It's : annewaskul1979@yahoo.com. Hope to hear from ya soon! I love you guys!!!
Anne

Dear Family:

I just love reading about Eddie and Isaac! It really takes me back to a time in my life that I loved and don't have to miss quite so much because of these darling grandchildren.

Here in Utah we are loving the mist, rain, cooler temps and darker house. I have a candle that gives off spicy autumn scents. The birds aren't quite so energetic today...I suppose they sense it a day to chill out and enjoy the beginning of a new season.

The Fair was a kick! We loved seeing bees in the hive, piglets chasing their mom around for another drink, huge pumpkins, succulent peaches, amazing watermelon, chickens with feathers on their feet, cows with the biggest brown eyes, goats that want a nibble of your clothes if you get too close, sheep with the longest, heaviest testicles that I have ever seen,...not to mention the handicrafts of children and parents. Sis and I sat in on a Toll House bake-off competition. The fuss of the contestants, the lovely desserts, the seriousness of the judges; well, we just wish we had the job of tasting all of those goodies
The butter cow this year is fashioned after a nursery rhyme 'Hey, Diddle Diddle' I told the kids if they could figure out what the scene was supposed to represent I would give them $5. Well, between Joe and Jerry I think Joe was the winner. Lois, we saw Christina Gates sitting at one of the booths for people interested in gardening. She looks good and we had a nice visit. Of course the kids were baffled wondering who in the heck she was. There were some exotic cats at the fair and an old-fashioned organ grinder. The guy had a simple smile, tilted head with a Zorro hat and all that was missing was the monkey.

Dave is putting together a rodeo for his friends. He fancies himself to be a cowboy because he has been getting on the back of some Steer and holding on for dear life...not anything past 4 seconds yet. He complains of being stiff and wishes the guy who owns the animals wound not require him to wear a helmet...it kind of wrecks the image :)

Happy 10th to you all and don't forget to say your prayers. Always, mom

I'm loving the weather these days! My favorite times of the year are the days when the seasons seem to be in transition. It always stirs a feeling of anticipation and excitement inside!

On Sunday, Eddie gave the prayer in primary. I guess he asked Heavenly Father touch the boats with His finger so that they would light up. He supposedly went on and on about it, and the Primary president had to help him finish the prayer so they could move on to other things. I wasn't too surprised because for days now, he's been finding rocks and asking me to pray for them to be lit up.

The story of the Brother of Jared really stuck out to him I guess. What sticks out to me is how many opportunities he finds to pray now, and how much faith is inside that little body! It's such a blessing to have little children around. As I type this he is sitting on my bed for quiet time. All I can see is an open book that is being propped up by his little knobby-kneed legs.
Lucky me.

bub,i didn't know arnie got egged, but mother did. shes still voting for him, anythings better than joe davis! (mom calls him that). we had a police pursuit today and i guess the guy jumped out around pierce college area, there began the foot chase. the way doc tells it,when they catch the guy(him probably being a mexican) they'll just hand him over a drivers license!
kelly showed up for her initial dental check up with the dentist nest door to my office dressed up with half an outfit that looked like tommys, the other half looking like someone's much younger than herself. i guess i'll not worry that clothing is one of her priorities! she reported back with 13 cavities..that about coveres every tooth in her mouth! i was proud.
i just got home from my drunk class..they made us watch "leaving las vegas".....i'm nauseuos. i'm going to try and enter something worth while in the storage department and catch some shut eye...night.

Mary, only Californians consider Chicago to be in the east (well, and maybe Idahoans). It's considered a midwest city!

Speaking of CA, where else would Arnie get egged? I hooted when I saw that on TV last night.

Greetings from Portland, OR. Hot and muggy here, supposed to be over 90 degrees here today! I'm up here on a quick business trip; will be home late tonight.

Katie and Danny, I hope the apartment is beginning to feel like home.

hey to the new chicagonians! glad to hear you made it safely and swiftley. have fun setting up house katie! I'll bet you'll be missed terribly in Utah, but what a fun adventure for you. I really hope you like the easterners, i know my brother has only had great things to say about the city.
If your not careful you'll have Anne beating a path to your door real quick! personally i don't think it's a good idea...but what do i know!
Gram and i had a really nice time together for the long weekend in Del Mar. It was nice to get away for a few days. Neither one of us (for gram its been longer) has been down there for a long time. The place really looked great minus a few spots on the carpet. Bob and Donna Hook go to great lengths to show their appreciation for their trips down, gram sure was suprised.
We went to Balboa Island on detour home for grams birthday. Can't remember when i was there last. We didn't stay long, had lunch at a chinese place mom likes and just window shopped a block or two. She drove me around to some of the different places we stayed at when we were kids, i only remember one of those trips. It's ALOT different now to say the least, but we did find the house and i sort of remembered as it still is today. Boy i sure wouldn't want to live there though, WAY to many people! Kinda reminded me of a busy ant farm! We always get a kick out of all the different people, some of the couples.....you wonder how they ever got matched up!! It was a fun time.
The kids are back to school and you reminded me Bub that i need my home teacher to come give Tom and Kel a blessing too, i had thought of it earlier and then it slipped my mind, not hard to do...thanks for the reminder.
I sent a note off to Laurel, hope she gets it. shes in my prayers.
Love you guys
Mar

Danny called last night. They made it as far as Des Moines last night! The trip they'd planned on taking them the better part of three days they now think they can do in two.

Happy Birthday to my mother! Number 77 today!

My dear mother was born three years before the stock market crash of 1929 which brought in the great depression. When she was five years old, her family moved from Idaho to Los Angeles. When I say "her family", I mean it. Her mother and her two aunts and their families all relocated to California, I'm guessing in search of better employment. Even her mother's parents (Jake and Emma Mani) relocated there. The whole lot headed west to the land of promise.

Happy Birthday, Mother. I hope it's a wonderful day for you and that you're feeling better and gaining strength every day. We love you and are grateful for the fine heritage you have given us.

Katie, Danny, and the kids left early this morning. Sweet Cristie got up at about 4:30 and sat on the porch to bid them goodbye as they drove past (they've been staying at the Nydegger's the past few days), but they must have taken a different route out of the nieghborhood.

We had a nice family evening last night. I was honored to give Kate a father's blessing before she left, and David a pre-mission blessing as well. We had a short family council on things we all might do to help Laurel, and then just hung out and enjoyed each other.

Thanks to all of you for all you do to make Laurel feel loved and included. Your willingness to help when you already have such busy lives is inspiring to me.

We wish Katie and Danny the best in Chicago! We're sure going to miss them here.

I too enjoyed Carp this year. It wasn't the same with some family not there, and others coming and going, but it was beautiful and relaxing. Cristie got some pictures back yesterday, and I was reminded again of how perfect the weather was. The following is a memory of Carp I wrote awhile back. I thought you might enjoy it:

When I was a child, most every summer we spent at least a week at Carpinteria. Our record was three straight weeks there, until the rangers got wise to my mothers camp switching and kicked us out.

One summer when I was about ten, I became a lifeguard. Well, a pretend lifeguard. I always thought the lifeguards at the beach looked so great in their tans, bleached hair (especially the hair on their arms and legs), and in their faded red shorts. So when the state beach built newer, higher, and fancier guard towers, I took over one of the old, smaller, abandoned ones, which was about 25 yards from the newer one.

I'd get there first thing in the morning, ready for a day of saving, even ahead of my authentic neighbors. I'd stay all day too, not daring to leave my post for fear I'd miss an opportunity to be a hero, or worse, that some other kid would take over my stand. My brother Tom joined me for the first couple of days, but he never had the staying power I did, so he wandered off to other less glorious persuits, and I was left to scan the beach by myself (which I preferred anyway). My ever concerned mother would send either my brother or one of my cousins with my lunch so I didn't starve and would have the needed reserves should my services be required.

Alas, during my weeks employ, as far as I could see there never was a need for a rescue, either by me or by my neighbors. Not even a riptide warning or anything. But I was faithful to my duty nonetheless, talked shop with the other lifeguards, got a little tanner, and my red trunks got a little more faded. And I even enjoyed the admiration of a couple of younger girls who came and hung around my tower for awhile. For a ten-year-old, what could really be better than that?

happy 50th cristie!! i really had no idea!! sorry i'm getting to you so late but i kinda got lost trying to look at the carp photos bub sent me..never did get to see 'em. anyway from what i heard, you had my kind of birthday date! heck, my kind of date anytime!! i'm so anxious to see sea biscuit!! the book was great. i'm hoping mom feels good enough very soon so we can go. i wont ask how it was because anything much about horses is great by me. speaking of which, i'd like to invite you and anyone else who would like to tag along to a 3 day, 3 night round up!!! yep i'm savin' my money!! it's up North of San Luis Obispo at the Camatta Ranch. I'm shooting for the May round up...theres one this October but the cost is a grand so i can't make it until the next one comes around in May. i wont go into the details but it really sound like alot of fun, not alot of hard riding unless you want to really work the cattle along with the ranch hands who will be accompanying. i seem to recall you enjoying riding and of course camping out under the starrs so give it some thought huh? besides that i'm back to the routien here which is pretty darn good. i have the greatist boss! i feels good to be missed. yesterday a dozen roses were delivered to me at work from one of my very cute boy patients...he's married...but he's still a sweetie! it sure made my.....YEAR! even though if i was the guys wife i'd definately be ticked! really it was supposed to be anonymous though, i just snuck a peek at the reciept,much to the dismay of the delivery guy. whatever..it was innocent fun i'm sure. i sure enjoyed seeing everybody at carp this year, i did especially miss melissa out in the waves with us though. we had the greatest weather huh? thanks for having my Kelly girl. i miss her terrible though! from our talks shes really enjoying herself alot, i'm glad she was able to come. well it's late, happy birthday again Cristie. love you, mary

Well, we're home:) The trip home seemed especially long. We arrived at 11:15 p.m. and listend to some great short stories on tape. The week at the beach was fantastic. We had wonderful sun, sand, family, friends (Jen Checchio), dinner in honor of Serge's 80th, yummy food, Grandma at the beach in her red hat and gobs of great stories to share, a great testimony meeting at church where Katie and Liz shared their testimonies, Anne with her wonderful laugh and little red G purse, candy store walks, Doug walking mounds of sandwiches down to the beach to feed the ravinous beach bums, Foster's and the missing G purse, walks into town and on the beach, cold salty water to cool off in, amazing sea life...I'll never forget Dave swimming with the Dolphins, Tommy, Dave and Joe floating on the rafts and fishing with Joe catching a fish, their bait washing out to sea, Katie getting snookered in her 2nd attempt to "Shoot the Moon". In a word our California trip was UNFORGETABLE! Now the boys would include their Dodger game and trip to Magic Mountain, with Ed barfing and Valerie passing out. Really, can a trip be possible without me hanging my fanny out of the car between St. George and Las Vegas! Sorry for the messy news, but the details are much worse! That I will spare you.
I have mountains of laundry to do which I am enjoying immensely...something about putting in dirty and pulling out clean has always been a charge for me.
Danny, thank you for making it possible for Katie to come and be a kid again. Doug and Ali, thanks for being willing to work so hard...your darlings are real little beach kids, and Carter served as a little fog horn for the camp. We all missed Sam and Melissa with their little ones. Often your names were mentioned as was Danny. Kellie and her little Campbell and Cole are part of the beach family. They are delightful!
Well dear hearts, my love to you all. Once again my skin is a little crispy, my nails have sand stains, and day to day living looks good. Kelly came home with us and was fun to travel with...presently she is taking in all of the birds.
Cristie, Mom, Grammy

hey cuzes it's me kelly, grandma was wundering if we are going to take turns making meals. hey lizzie i am so excited too! i hope we have a lot of fun and even if the water is frezzing we always get use to it, don't we. well i luv you all and i hope we see every one of you luv kel

Danny,my E-mail adress is blueviolet11@msn.com Im really gonna miss babysitting for you guys Im gonna be broke! but Im sure youll love it in chicago

hi I am so excited for carp!!! it is going to be so much fun! and for those of you who live out in california you dont know how lucky you are you dont have to sit in the car hour after hour it is going to be so boring especially in our car it is going to be so quiet because everyones going to be listening to music or fast asleep but once we get there it will be great Me mom and Joe went to costco yesterday so we got a ton of great food and supplies and Im going to the library and rent some CDS I only have two! and believe me if Im gonna me in the car that long I think I will need more than two CDs. well love ya all xo xo xo

Hi to all. We made it home safely yesterday, even after missing our flight in Cincinnati. The boys and I were enjoying the Crown Room so much I forgot that Cincy is in the eastern time zone. So, when I thought we had an hour before flight time, I checked the board and discovered our flight had left 20 minutes ago! This was after hanging out at the airport for five hours. Luckily, Delta had another flight leaving an hour later, and because of my elite status with the airline, we were moved to the top of the stand-by list and we got on the flight.

It was a tough week for me. One of the towns in Iowa put us up in a freshly cut weed field, with cut grass and weeds still on the ground. I noticed my asthma getting a little worse the next day, but didn't think much of it. But the next day, I just didn't have it. I couldn't figure it out, either. I was eating, drinking, had at least adequate rest, but I had little ability to tackle the hills we had for the day.

That night, I tossed and turned all night, unable to sleep, or breathe very well. Overnight, I realized that I had asthma, in spite of the meds I religiously take. So, I didn't ride the last two days of the ride. I was discouraged, because these were two fun days on the road, but there was no way I was going to risk getting worse. David also really struggled with his asthma, hay fever, and red, swollen eyes. He was at my tent every night to use the inhaler.

Iowa was truly beautiful, and the people, wonderful. I met folks from all over, and the comraderie was great. In most towns we rode through, people were on their porches and in their yards just watching the cyclists roll by. Most in our group liked to get up at 4:30AM and begin riding just before dawn. We did it, but as some of you know, I'm not much of a morning person, so I think those early mornings also took their toll. Mary, next year, you need to do the ride with me, and we'll start the day a little later!

We had beautiful weather. It sprinkled during a spectacular lightning display on the second night, and rained hard for about a half hour a couple of nights later, but no riding in the rain. Except for the first two nights, we had cool evenings. On the second night, it was so hot and humid, my tent was like a sauna. I was just laying in it, not moving and sweating. Finally, I couldn't take it anymore, and got up and just walked around in the dark. A little shower ensued and cooled things off enough so that I could return to my tent and get some sleep.

The highlight of the trip for me was to spend that week with my boys. I was very proud of both of them; they were very strong riders. Joe stuck with me much of the time to keep me company, which was very considerate, and we had many good laughs and good discussions together on the road. Doug was by far the strongest rider in our group. The first two days, he came in to the destination towns among the very first riders of all 10,000! He was his usual thoughtful self, pitching his poor, tired father-in-laws tent, ready for his arrival several hours later.

Now we look forward to Carp. It will be nice to camp and relax with family for a week.

Dear Family, When Jim first told me that he had received phone calls from Utah inquiring as to whether or not he was coming to the beach this year I felt like I had been kicked in the teeth. I also felt angry and hurt. But after much conversation and prayer I realized that you didn't go through that divorce with him..I did. And that all of you see the guy to whom I was once attracted. And while I can understand why you all would like to spend time together it would be very uncomfortable for me to share the same time with my family. I''m still trying to recover from the divorce and move on with my life and my feelings are still quite tender and sensitive, especially in regards to my family vacation. Due to work I will have to leave mid week and I will let Jim know so he can come after I've gone. I pray you will understand and respect my feelings on this matter. I love you, Mary

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNIE! You have the most amazing attributes. I love your laugh and sense of humor. You are resiliant and don't hold grudges. You are kind and loving. You really have brought a lot of joy to our family. So, in a word, you are quite 'wonderful.' This is your day and I will be thinking of you:)

Here I am in a nice hotel right on Michigan Ave. in dowtown Chicago, and I have so much work to do, I haven't left my hotel room this morning. My meeting actually starts at 1PM; I couldn't get here today in time for the start of the meeting, so I flew in last night. I've been sitting at this computer all morning, and am now taking a break by catching up with blog.

It's beautiful here today. Will be in the mid-80's, relatively low humidity, and will drop down to the low 70's tonight. Much cooler and nicer than we've been experiencing of late on the Wasatch. I love Chicago. The one and only nice thing about Katie and Danny moving here is, I usually get to this city a couple of times a year. After Katie and Danny get here, I'll have a reason to bring Cristie with me and the two of us stay over a day or two to visit. Lot's to do and see in the Windy City.

I hope the weather here in the mid-west is as nice and mild next week as it is right now! David, Joe and I head off to Iowa Saturday morning for a week of cycling through cornfields.

Got a call on my cell phone from Danny Hirschi last night. He's in Utah, visiting with Lydia for the next couple of weeks. He says she's feeling better and has gained a little weight. He wants me to go to a mandolin conceret with him Thursday night (David Grisman, Sam), but I might have too much to do to go with him.

Bob Hook called me this morning. He's concerned about Dustin. Says all the work and tedium of the Air Force is getting him down. He misses his family and is discouraged. Bob asked me if I could give him a blessing. Of course I'm honored he would ask. That's what I may be doing Thursday night.

Well.....back to work. I trust everyone is safe and well.