Half Witts

Saturday Morning

2010-03-06T12:12:00.000-08:00

Just a Saturday morning thought and Sue and Mick conversation...

It is so wonderful to lay in bed. Especially my bed because it is a firm Tempurpedic...love my BED!
Saturday is about the only day I get to do that...and a rare Saturday at that. Today was one of those days.
As I was reading and preparing for Lesson 8 ( a great lesson) in the Old Testament, Mickey said he was going to make some eggs and bacon and asked if I wanted any. I nodded, then went on reading.
In comes Mickey with scrambed eggs, whole wheat toast, 3 pieces of bacon and my drink (the cheater...3/4 diet and 1/4 full sugar/caffeine). I said, "Wow, breakfast in bed. I never get that!"
Mickey's response..."Me neither." Hmmm, thought to ponder - maybe.
Happy Saturday to you.

Oh, my word! I am really totally computer LOST!

2010-02-14T17:58:00.000-08:00

Please note...it's been a long time and I wasn't really that great to begin with, so all of the following posts are BACKWARDS! And we wonder why I don't post more often....REALLY?

While I was lost...

2010-02-14T17:51:00.001-08:00

Andie threw a fabulous 40th birthday party for Morgan! She rented space at an indoor softball arena so that all of Morgan's fans could come have pizza, b-day cake and then play indoor softball. It was all a huge surprise for Morgan...it was a success!

So, I have been lost for a couple of months...

2010-02-14T17:18:00.001-08:00

It's a good thing that while I was lost, there were some who were also lost with me. They found me! Thank goodness! Chad and Andie were with me the beginning of December. Betty-the-Brick is no longer in the hospital...THANK GOODNESS. She was able to return to Aunt Robin's December 12...on her 81st Birthday.

If you really wanted to find me, you could have tried at Aunt Robin's house because I was there visiting with Betty-the-Brick (also known as Betty-the-Great, Mom, and Grandma Betty). Or, you could have checked with Room 2 (the kindergarten room) at Carl Sundahl Elementary, or last week you could have checked in with Olivia Hansen up in Seattle as the Mick man and I were there for her baptism. Where you probably wouldn't find me is at church. Shocking how much I have missed being there.

In my travels I have collected a few pictures. Wanna see 'em...just roll through them quickly!

I told you I wasn't lost!

2009-12-13T08:31:00.000-08:00

There is so much to write about...as with most/all of you, it's tough to know where to begin. First, it's a VERY rainy day. Sometimes the rain makes me feel excited to begin the day. I feel energized - sometimes. This is not one of those times. Instead, the rain has produced tears. It is almost as though the rain has given me permission to cry. What would I cry about? Hmmm, could be many things. I could cry about the multitude of blessings I have given (certainly, not earned): My Savior, because that is what He is. He is the one that takes me out of the dark, swampy, shallow mire. He takes out his wash board (you know the metal kind, cuz that's what it will take) , holds me by my shoulders, and proceeds to gently rub me up and down the metal ridges until I am thparkly (that's Bailey's and Marin's word) white. Then He welcomes me into his warm arm and hugs me, still being gentle. Or, I could cry as I think about the precious Priesthood. I have watched it in action through the MANY blessings given to my mom over the last couple of months. I am so grateful to have my life surrounded by honorable men who recognize and honor that power: my hubby (that one's for you Megan - and honestly, it sounds too child-like to describe someone so important in my life), my brother, my son, my son-in-law (who will be using that power to bless his newborn son today) and even the two sets of area missionaries who came when called to give my mom a blessing. I would not know about my Savior, the Priesthood, or the restored Gospel if I wasn't a member of His church. How thankful I am for my baptismal covenants and all of the eternal covenants beyond that. These promises will make it possible to be with my mom, dad, brother and his family, the Mick Man and my children - FOREVER! Now, back to the tears... These covenants/promises give me some sense of peace right now while my mommy is so very ill. The tears could be for her! I am getting a handle on how frail our mortal existence is...and I am uncomfortable with that knowledge.

I love hearing Janeen call Mom Betty-the-Great. Betty the great, is great. I am so thankful to have spent so many of my years so close to her.

Gotta go...but, I'll be back.

I'm not lost, I promise!

2009-12-09T22:22:00.001-08:00

It's Sunday - there's so much to be thankful for...

2009-11-15T13:54:00.000-08:00

* The opportunity to take the Sacrament and refresh my baptismal covenants.
* The Young Women's Sacrament meeting - Young Women in Excellence. The spirit was there in abundance. Their singing was angelic. I'm not a Sacrament Meeting crier, but I was today.
* The Gospel Doctrine class was great...they are a spiritual group of people. I learn from them every time I teach. We talked about the Spirit of Elijah...they have it.

I was even thankful yesterday

2009-11-15T13:50:00.000-08:00

* I did a good deed. It felt GREAT!
* I was (and still am) thankful for available resources as I prepared for the Gospel Doctrine lesson.
* I am so grateful for the help as I prepare lessons - I never have to do it alone. I love the company of the Holy Ghost.

I was REALLY thankful on Friday the 13th

2009-11-15T13:48:00.000-08:00

* The play was as good as it was going to get.
* I didn't loose any of the kinders in the crowd. That is always a fear!
* I was able to go see Carter's kindergarten teacher in action. She is great and so is Carter.

I was thankful on Thursday the 12...

2009-11-15T13:37:00.000-08:00

* For the fact that the next day the kids were all coming early in order to attend the Wizard of Oz (p.s. I REALLY don't like the story/movie/play - the Wizard of Oz).
* Watching the Mentalist - my new favorite show
* I didn't have to go the staff meeting...Why? Because I teach kindergarten and we are in a world all our own.

November 9, 10th, and 11th

2009-11-11T16:18:00.000-08:00

Here are the random things I am thankful for...
*a surprise voicemail from Mark Romo...why? I don't know, but I really smiled when I listened to it
*a sister (sister-in-law) in Utah who inspires me A LOT!
*a sister in Hemet who is giving such extraordinary care to my very ill mommy
* my car - I still love it 75,000 trouble free miles later.
* EAR PLUGS! WOW...they are just the best. I enjoy snore free sleep every night.
* the burgandy leaves on the tree in the backyard
* little girls in pink tu-tus and their hair in buns - sooo cute
* birthday shopping days with a five year old grandaughter
*Veteran's Day - I got to put out the flag.

It's easy to feel thankful on Sunday

2009-11-08T16:58:00.000-08:00

* I am thankful for the 11:00 meeting time
* I am thankful for the teacher that teaches the Gospel Doctrine class on the weeks when I am not. Oh, I felt her pain today...she left her planned lesson at home. I have done that twice. SICK feeling.
* I am so thankful on this Sunday because the very ill mom is actually doing a little better. She is NEVER far from my thoughts.

I had a hard time thinking of thankfuls yesterday...

2009-11-08T16:55:00.000-08:00

Until Bailey's CUTE b-day party and then I was remembering that I permanently thankful for being a grandma.

I am thankful for Briggs because he is the one who made me a grandma.

I am thankful for the Hansen grandkids because they made my VERY sick mom smile with their get well wishes.

And Now it's Friday and I am OH SO THANKFUL

2009-11-06T20:31:00.000-08:00

I love Fridays even more than Thursdays and being thankful hardly expresses my feelings about FRIDAYS! Here's why...

Duh! I am home or choosing someplace else to be for two days. Again, my choice!
Monk - one of my only two TV shows that I watch
I can read, read, read, read and read some more and for as long as I want because I don't have any reason to wake up at 5:00 am

I am so thankful for Fridays - Even Friday November 6th!

Yesterday was Thursday

2009-11-06T20:18:00.000-08:00

I love Thursdays and I am so thankful that they come along...LOVE Thursdaysbecause...
The Mentalist
it's the day before Friday (which is even better)
this Thursday I got to see Bailey and Easton
(just a note about Bailey and then Easton - Bailey hasn't seen big sissy, Lindsay for a while and one of the first things she said to me was, 'Just look who's here...IT's MY SISSY!' I thought that was very sweet. And then there's Easton who was using the Wii controller like a baseball bat - and was playing Wii golf. He's just full of it - baseball 'it' that is.

I am thankful for eagles

2009-11-04T19:19:00.000-08:00

The real ones...they are majestic, huge and kinda mean looking. They have that don't mess with me look.
The ones that sing (you know, the Eagles)
The ones that represent the United States of America...I am so thankful to be an American.

It's Tuesday an I am thankful for...teaching kindergarten

2009-11-03T21:34:00.000-08:00

My kindergarten classroom and here are the three reasons...

* The classroom is HUGE (large enough for 32 rambunctious kinders).

* I have my VERY own bathroom. Having the neurotic (I can't spell tonight!) bladder that I do, this is a GREAT blessing. I am so thankful to be able to go 'potty' on a moment's notice.

* I have my own preparation room with a massive amount of storage. There are only two classrooms in the school that have it and I have one of the two rooms.

I sure didn't think kindergarten sounded like a blessing when I knew it was in the offing, but I'm so happy to be where I am.

Monday is full of thanks, too

2009-11-02T16:46:00.000-08:00

#1 - gigantic grapes (even if they do have seeds)
#2 -having enough sleep to be prepared to take on the 32 kindergartners.
#3 - the wonderful sunny (but NOT hot) autumn...it's just beautiful outside!

Sunday Full of Thanks

2009-11-02T16:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's Monday but I'm still thankful for Sundays...

#1 - Fasting to come back in the Gospel line - it works!
#2 - Halloween candy (after the fast...of course)
#3 - The time change ... I needed that extra hour.

The newest member of the Witt household - Hillary

2009-09-26T19:15:00.000-07:00

Hold onto your seat for this one...meet Hillary. Does this just crack you up? Two little oldish people riding around Northern California on a motorized tricycle. Mickey knows a man that builds these tricycles. He mentioned this to me a couple of years ago. Next thing I know, Mickey wants me to go see something...our own personal motorized tricycle. It's cute, don't ya think? The back mud flaps have Yosemite Sam on them with the words..."Back Off". It is so fun to ride. We have taken a couple of longish rides and I love it! We are pretty cute in our dark red, matching helmets. Shoot man...we're just plain cute! I'm sure that's why so many people watch us pass by them on the freeway.

The Red Letter - August 1

2009-09-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, so here's why it's a RED letter day...That's when Andie was born. And here's why it's so cool that happened...
Andie is -
*a grateful daughter...I can't even count the number of thank you notes I've received from Andie, just because I'm her mom.
*a sweet, step-daughter to Mickey...she loves him, and that means so much to me.
*a great supportive, wife to Morgan
*a loving sister to Lindsay...they are sisters and friends, too.
*a fun, wonderful, energetic, entertaining, and full time working mother of two.
*a super successful insurance executive (may have taken a little liberty with saying she's an executive, but that's how hard she works)
*a voracious book reader - it's been that way since she was in the 3rd grade.
* a stellar Primary teacher (she instituted Reverence Jellybeans)
*so quick witted - I revel in just talking to her because she just plain old entertains me.
*she is pretty darn courageous...she's taking her kids to church (and that aint easy-hello EASTON!) just because she knows it's the right thing to do and she wants to give her kids a solid foundation. I truly respect her for the 'church' thing.
Shoot Man! I'm so glad she's my daughter.

Just more pictures of the beautiful cruise...a memory of a lifetime.

2009-09-26T18:45:00.001-07:00

Shopping...it's all about shopping with the MickMan. Holy smokes - the man loves to shop. We really did see and buy some cool things. I never like spending money - but it happened. I have some beautiful diamond earrings, a beautiful silver/gold necklace with a diamond pendant to go with it. I hope it doesn't sound like I'm complaining (even though at the time I did complain) but that my husband delights in giving me beautiful gifts.

I took a picture of the hand sanitizer dispenser because they were all over the ship and I just knew Andie would love it. EVERYWHERE! Hand sanitizer... EVERYWHERE!

And that is just a microscopic view of our wonderful vacation.

I did learn a few things while cruising - wanna know what?

2009-09-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

I learned that it'sworth it to be upgraded from a verandah suite to just below a penthouse status. It didn't cost us an extra cent, but boy did we ever enjoy the room and the verandah. COOL!
I also learned that a "tender" is something more than fast food chicken...it is a mini ship that looks just like what I picture the Jaradite barges (?) to lookl like. Really interesting. That was how we left the ship and went into Ketchikan. I also learned that cold strawberry soup is really like a strawberry milkshake. I wanted to lick the soup bowl even though we were at the formal dinner. I also learned that to 'muster' doesn't mean that the 'd' was left off 'mustard' ...it's when you gather on a ship to go through the escape procedure...in case you run into an iceberg. I learned that when fresh water meets salt water, there is a change in the water color.

The cruise pictures

2009-09-26T18:14:00.001-07:00

What a great experience. I will just post the pictures with little or no remarks because the pictures will probably be boring enough. Ya sure don't need the extra words...

Road Trip #3 - I 80 through the Recliner - REALLY

2009-09-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

Really? Really? Interstate 80 through a recliner? What can that possibly mean? well, here goes. I will tell you that I am THE only person I know who has run right through a real recliner. Here's the story and I'm sticking to it! It was about 7:45, dusk. It was the Tuesday before Mickey and I were to fly to Seattle to catch the cruise. I was driving home from Lindsay/Andie's houses...happy, happy, happy. The far right lane was vacant while the middle and left lanes were fairly crowded. Duh, so change lanes. And there it was a recliner sitting upright in the far left lane. 'Was' is the operative word...because I promptly smashed it to pieces (strung it across the three lanes). The thing was demolished and I did it! Well, me and my beloved Honda Pilot. I thought for sure I had two flat tires, so I pulled over to check it out. At the same time, I made sure no one could see my face...SO embarassing. I was just fine, but my beloved Pilot was pretty messed up - NOOO!flat tires just a lot of dropping headlights. I watched as the bumped cumbled and fell in the dirt. The right side of my car which had been previously damaged was also slightly messed up. I am so glad I was driving my Honda/SUV. If I had been in a sedan, the thing would have been totaled. But the bill to the insurance company came to just about $3,000. And the car was repaired just 2 days later. Yes, I personally destroyed a tan recliner. Shore was a proud moment.

2009-09-26T16:58:00.000-07:00

Road Trip #2 - Mid June - Seattle/Enumclaw

2009-09-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

OH, great memories...The middle, endish part of June I was invited to ride along with Lindsay, Carter and Marin to see Uncle Chad, Aunt Janeen, Briggs, Livvy and Emily. I was pretty flattered that Lindsay would even consider letting me go along. What a dream come true...seeing 5 of my 7 grandkids all at the same time. The kids were a delight to travel with and that is one L O N GGGG trip. I'm not sure how long it took us, but it was longer than 2 hours. Honestly, the kids were awesome little travelers. Hard to believe, huh. The 5 kids played together (well, not so much Emily because she had just had her tonsils taken out) and just hung out together. Janeen fixed us some delicious meals and Chad just entertained the mother. Dang, it was FUN in every possible way. One of my favorite pictures is of the 4 kids on a ferry ride (I so missed Emily being with us). I'll share a Chadism with you. When we drove to the place to drive onto the ferry (we went without Janeen ???) it looked like there a LONG line of cars waiting to drive onto the ferry. None of the cars moved. We waited and waited and waited and waited. None of the cars moved. So Briggs and I jumped out to see what was going on. We towards the front of the line of cars only to discover that the line of cars we were waiting behind were parked cars (ya know, the ones that have NO driver in them). I had to laugh. Briggs and I hustled back to the car to let Chad know we were waiting behind a long line of parked cars. Yeah! Mom and Chad make a great pair. We needed Janeen! Again, just a GREAT trip.

June 2009 Roadtrip #1 - Peace & Quiet!

2009-09-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

I have decided that one of my yearly jaunts needs to be to Sparks Nevada right after school lets out for the summer. This was the second year I've taken that little trip. It was so peaceful and relaxing. I spent some quality with Mark & Megan, slept, read some books and just LOVED it. My very favorite part though is always the vision of lovliness called the Sparks Marina...that's right, THE Sparks that is in the middle of the desert has a marina. When you hear the word 'marina' does that bring a picture of water, sailboats and maybe sand to your mind? It does mine and even after seeing the Sparks Marina, I still have the same picture in my mind. WOW! a desert marina. I will let you make a comparison between the Sparks Marina and another Marina. The contrast is startling...but the idea of a desert community having a marina is precious.

Now, a few weeks later, Mickey and I left Seattle aboard a cruiseliner. As we left, I noticed THE Seattle Marina. here we go...just comapare the Seattle Marina with the precious Sparks Marina. I know...I'm just mean. Do you notice any difference? Can you tell which one is which?

Don't hold your breath...but:

2009-08-07T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here is my way of making something happen in the world of BLOGS...here's a list of things I will be writing about...someday.

August 1st 1977 - a RED letter day.
Strawberry shakes - cruise style
Tenders - not chicken ones
A week end by the Sparks Marina - a comparison
Room 22 "after"
Room 2 before and after
The roadtrip
My mom
The Kindergarten teacher.
Are you just achin' to know about all of these things? I'll bet you just can't wait.

Life is GREAT!

The Famous Ketchikan

2009-07-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's famous but you may not have even known that. It is the leading salmon fishering place. Ya know who comes here to fish? Johnny Depp...we just missed seeing his yacht. DANG! We went to see a world famous totem pole carver...what an interesting and peaceful man he is. I wonder if that is because he works with a product from earth all the time. We also saw and group of Tlingit dancers. Mickey MADE me go up and dance with them. The dancers were great but a little girl about 18 months old really stole the show and she wasn't even a part of it. We may have a picture of her...she was moving pretty fast between the dancers with her bottle. The mom Tlingits dance holding their newborns and infants.

I LOVE the fog horn!

Oh! Sitka!

2009-07-23T22:55:00.000-07:00

I sure didn' know much about a place named Sitka until yesterday...oh, and for those of you who think Sitka was the place in the movie 'The Proposal'...it isn't. The movie was filmed in New England. What a bunch of cheaters those movie folks are. But, the real Sitka is even better. It is a small fishing community, really just an island. The only road goes 7 miles one way and then ends...and it goes 7 miles the other way and the ends. But it is BEAUTIFUL. There was so much history there. Russian history, American history and Tclinkit Indian history. I have a new love for totem poles. I've always thought they were kinda dumb, but they are NOT! As you might guess, totem poles tell a history of a village or a family. The one thing I thought was a great idea was one of the four reasons for a Totem...to tell the history of a clan, as a kind of family crest, to tell legends, as a mortuary/memorial, and to display shame. I loved the last one. Imagine this, someone in the community does something awful (to the Tclinkits that would be stealing) anyway, they would put a totem in front of their home until the wrong had been corrected. Can you imagine our society putting a shame totem in front of someone's home until the wrong was corrected? Food for thought!

Internet costs $.75 a minute so I'm outa here for now...I do love the ocean!

One Less Thing on My Bucket List

2009-07-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

Before I kick the bucket, I wanted to see a sheet of ice fall from a glacier...
I DID!
We saw and watched the Hubbard Glacier yesterday. Blue! Huge! Silent! Thunderous! Cold! (Duh, on that one). The glacier (I almost wrote 'thing' instead of glacier - how irreverent!) is 40 stories tall, 26 miles wide and I don't how deep it is....but MASSIVELY MENACING. We also got a cultural perspective from a ? tribe, and a scientific perspective from a park ranger.

Global Warming? to quote the park ranger...Global Warming is a new field of science and because of that a lot of mistakes have been made and will be made. The earth IS warming, but it is most likely the natural cycle of the earth...what has YET to be determined is what part we earthings have had in it. Here's my belief...for what it's worth...it is a natural cycle determined by our Father in Heaven and His Son...but we earthlings have been irresponsible and haven't taken care of the precious home as we should have.

OFF to Sitka!

OH NO! we are leaving Juneau

2009-07-20T22:48:00.000-07:00

I just walked out on the verandah and watched Juneau fading away. I am a little sad. It is really a unique city. The only way that it can be reached is by air or water. It is literally built on the side of a mountain that builds from the shore. VERY unique. We weren't able to go on the float boat today because the cloud deck was too low. I guess safety comes first. We wandered around the town and purchased WAY too much stuff. I have a very generous husband and a new set of diamond stud earrings . We shopped for the Witt/Hansen families. The school teacher got the best of me and I bought a children's book. Oh, well...you'll just have to accept me for what I am...a kindergarten teacher...yep, I think that is what will happen. It is 10:00 pm and still light enough outside to read. And that is with the fog setting in. What a delightful few days. Tomorrow we get to visit an inland passage and view the Hubbard glacier. I have wanted to see a glacier for YEARS. I love it when I get what I want.

It's not that I haven't had a fabulous summer!

2009-07-19T23:11:00.000-07:00

In my mind I have blogged so many times and about so many different things...it just never really happened. BUT, this is really happening right now! I am about 6 hours away from Juneau Alaska...REALLY! We are in a beautiful veranda suite because the cruise line upgraded us from just a veranda to a veranda suite. We are having a wonderful time! That sure sounded dumb, but how else could I say it? There is so much to do on the boat and as most everyone knows, sooo much food and it is excellent! I swore I wouldn't overeat...I wanted to do it differently...NOPE! The gentle rocking of the ship and the QUIET of the ocean is food for thought. I also happen to be with good company...Mickey! We have taken some spectacular pictures and I will post them later...Yeh, right!

Tomorrow we will take a float plane tour of several glaciers, and go to a mountain lodge.

The staff of the liner sure wants us to buy some diamonds in Juneau...we'll see about that.

Should I report in later?

You can tell I'm no photographer!

2009-06-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

I'm cracking myself up (which is usually the case)! I just enlarged one of the pictures of the play structure - what else should I call it? - and I noticed that it looks like a giant bird feeder is part of the 'structure'. Yay for great composition. The bird feeder is attached to the tree, not the play place. DUH, Sue!

Mom/Grandma Betty says it's time for Mickey's Birthday to be over...

2009-06-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

So, here's what's new at our house, the play area in the backyard. It's actually not even an eyesore. Lots of the grandkids have been over to play on it and it has been accepted as a member of the family. I love our backyard! We still have the area behind Gma Betty's room/little patio for the kids to play baseball. And the roses/flowers are lovely (that's a Bailey word). Dang!this is a great time of year.

I almost forgot!

2009-05-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

Just gotta add this to the 63 year old birthday note...

Mickey! Mickey! ... you're so fine! You're so fine you blow my mind !...Hey, Mickey!

(just had to do it!)

Why is May 8th important?

2009-05-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

Because that is the day 63 years ago...(yes, six-three), when Mickey happened. Gee, that must mean that May 8th is his birthday! YEP! He sure is easy when it comes to birthdays. All he wants is a phone call or a b-day card. That's good because I can NEVER figure out what to buy him. He's such a little shopper that he buys stuff when he wants it. AHHHHH!

May 8th sure has made my life more enjoyable. I love his laugh! I love his big hairy hands. I love his voice. I love it that for the next couple of weeks he is 3 years older than me. I love it that he lets me stay at school until I get my work done. I love it that I get to have my house cleaned professionally every two weeks, and I don't have to feel embarrassed or guilty. I love it that he took me out of the world of 'singlehood' almost 14 years ago. I love it that he will go to the temple with me or let me go alone if I need to. He just has not thwarted or squelched me in any way AT ALL. If I want to go on a road trip with Lindsay, Carter, and Marin, he just says go ahead and have fun. He knows how much my kids and grandkids mean to me. And he thinks I am really funny. I do have those frequent 'blonde' moments and he just laughs. And, he sure is good to my mom. Yep, I scored when I married that man who is 63 years old today. Dang, he is old!

2009-05-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

To quote Andie...'Going, Going,...GONE

2009-04-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

This used to be my school creative corner/classroom. BUT things will be changing the first part of June. I have been instructed that I WILL BE CHANGING ROOMS. I think I will be in Room 8 instead of Room 22. I am truly sad. I loved my room. I had a beautiful view from the windows that were on the east and west side of my room. There it was,a beautiful lawn that fed Canadian Geese as they traveled from North to South. The field is ( I should say 'was' because it will only be in my imagination from now on, except for minute views as I traverse the campus) bordered by tall leafy evergreen trees that monitored the breezes. What a beautiful, open view of where the sky meets the earth. I did love watching the clouds move across the window. The other window has some of my favorite deciduous trees - Chinese talo. I watched the seasons change through the leaves of those trees. DANG! I am NOT happy...did I already mention that?

A Small but Lovely (that's Bailey's new word) Birthday

2009-04-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

A small, but loving celebration of Marin. Andie, Morgan, Easton, Bailey, Grandma Jill, Emily, Logan, Papa Mickey, Lindsay & Norm (DUH!), Grandma Betty, and me were all there. That is one hecka long clumsy sentence.

A Pink Birthday Party

2009-04-10T20:13:00.001-07:00

Marin is three and LOVES pink (and just as a side note...so does Carter!) We loved watching her Tuesday night. Thinking about where she has been and what she has had to endure just made the celebration sweeter.

What is a Lindsay?

2009-04-10T05:20:00.000-07:00

A Lindsay is 30 years old on April 9th.
A Lindsay is a wife, a mom, a daughter, a granddaughter, a sister, a friend, a sister-in-law, a niece, an aunt, a stepdaughter, a homemaker, a college graduate, a hairstylist, a coach, a mom/cardiologist, a caregiver, a Primary teacher, a minimalist (she is NOT a clutter collector), a home designed card/announcement maker, a tennis player, a dancer and a singer. There is much more to be said and I have risked leaving something out as I have created this list. But above all, she is someone I am so grateful to call my daughter. She does it ALL and she does it with flair and kindness. She is one determined woman. Happy Birthday, Lins.

Oh, brother

2009-03-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

I wonder if I could figure out how to blog in correct order if I did it more often. Nope, I doubt it! Should I keep on trying? Maybe...

Palo Alto with the Sells Family

2009-03-29T19:26:00.001-07:00

Carter and I took a jaunt to a park in Palo Alto. Norm and Lindsay were busy at the Lucille Packard Children's Hospital with Marin. She was involved with the pre-op process. Carter had a great time and found LOTS to do and he didn't even get hurt under my watch...RELIEF! I would not want to explain to Norm how one of his kids was injured...FEAR!

We met at the park and then went to the Stanford Mall. Holy Cow! That place is beautiful! It could be because the stores there are the kind where people go there who have too much money and don't have the good sense to know how to use it. Stores like Neiman Marcus, Nordstom, Coach, etc. I bought a $30.00 keychain. OOPS! I have joined those who don't know how to spend their money and I don't even have it! Cute keychain, though. It was great fun!

What's Going On...

2009-03-29T17:44:00.000-07:00

Look at what was waiting for me when I returned from Palo Alto...I am one lucky lass! Thank you, Sis Sue! I just love them! And they are the very first things I ever won...is this a beginning?

I'MMMMM BAAAAAACK ...Kinda

2009-02-28T23:30:00.000-08:00

The Mother and Father of the BRIDE

Love those son-in-laws...this one was the unsuspecting recipient of unsolicited affection...the others RAN!

Newly wed feet...where will you find another picture like this one?

This is the wonderful man who officiated at the sealing/wedding. OH NOOO! I can't remember his name...someone will, though.

What a beautiful day for a wedding...the view from the front of the Provo Temple.

The Gospel Doctrine lesson is as done as it is going to be for a Saturday night and I've had enough caffeine that I can't sleep, so here I am - reporting in!

"The" wedding was magnificent and simple, which tends to make it even more magnificent. The pictures posted so far have been great, so here are some that are NOT so great - fun, though. Just another perspective, I guess.

Literary Quote of the Day

2008-12-30T12:25:00.000-08:00

Just a thought as we bring 2008 to a close...

T.S. Eliot
"For last year's words belong to last year's language. And next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning."

Some favorites from Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T10:47:00.000-08:00

Each Christmas is different...here are some things I noticed about this particular Christmas that are worth noting for me, if not for anyone else.

Christmas Eve was noisy and crowded, up until about 6:00 p.m. and then it became quiet. The quiet reminded me of an early Sunday morning, so peaceful. The streets were nearly empty. All of the stores, except for Walgreens, were closed.

Christmas morning was also quiet. We woke up late, about 8:00 and had a breakfast that I had prepared the night before. No, I wasn't trying to poison anyone with spoiled food. It's one of those breakfasts that really takes all night to get ready.

There were presents to open, not a lot and I am glad for that. After a few presents were opened I gathered the wrapping paper and started wadding it into balls (stones). Mickey stood up on the couch and I started throwing wrapping paper balls at him as he acted out the part of Samuel the Lamanite when he was prophesying about the Savior's birth. Samuel (Mickey) was telling us to repent as I threw the paper balls at him. That was the fun part...but, unlike Samuel, Mickey was not protected and I 'accidentally' hit him with the 'stones'. Picture Mickey in his not-long-enough shorts with the rim of white showing standing on the couch. CUTE! and ENDEARING! AND, oh, so spiritual...hmmmm.

The middle of the day has become a blur, so there must not have been much to remember...oops, that doesn't mean much,because I don't have much of a memory anyway.

I love thinking about Christmas night! We went to Lindsay's for a truly wonderful meal. We spent some time with Norm Sr, Sally, Norm Jr's sister, Sarah, Andie, Norm Jr., Emily and David, as well as the little kids....Carter, Marin, Bailey, Easton, and Logan. I went outside after we had eaten and got scared to death because as I was unlocking my car, the horn honked .... not supposed to happen and as I looked around me I saw a long shadow approaching. AHHHHH, I saw my quick demise at the hands of a stranger. Not so! Morgan, who was scheduled to work until 10:00 p.m. took the opportunity to sign out and was there to surprise Andie and the kids. When we walked in it took Andie a few minutes (honestly, that is no exaggeration) to figure out that Morgan was standing next to me. She just kept looking at him like she didn't know him. A blank stare...hey, she's my daughter, what can I say? We had to tell her that Morgan was standing next to me. When she finally got it, she ran to him and hugged him.

And then the fun really began. We sat down for a few games of Nurtz. DANG it was fun.

The end of another great day, and a Christmas Day at that. Not too spiritual to be sure, but a BUNCH of fun.

A day with out Detrol

2008-12-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

A day without Detrol is like:
* finding fresh gum stuck to your shoe
* having a recurring nightmare
* finding out the belt to your coat was in the toilet when you go to flush
* sending a confidential file to the wrong person
* asking a student's parent when her baby is due and then having the parent tell you she is not pregnant
* driving over a tiny toad sitting in your driveway
* tenderly trying to steer a baby lizard out of the classroom and finding out your tender steering with a broom handle smooshed it to death
* not filling out a student's report card before you sent it home
* going to a children's concert and having a stranger tap you on the sholdier (did I spell that correctly) in the ladies room to tell you the seat cover is hanging out of your pants

Of course none of the things listed above ever happened to me....well, almost none of them. Today was interesting to say the least. Enough said!

Are you hungry for fresh mushrooms?

2008-12-08T20:18:00.000-08:00

Some people just LOVE mushrooms! These are available for harvest. They have been grown without pesticides or fertilizers...100% organic. They are available upon request.

The Final thankful Thirtys

2008-11-30T20:22:00.000-08:00

Wow! This month has gone so quickly and there have been so many things to be thankful for. Some that I've missed, I just know it. But, the awareness has been enlightening. I've loved it. I know I have posted some pretty goofy things, but it's okay to be thankful for the BIG (Heavenly Father, the Savior, the Gospel, the Church, the Family) and it's okay to be thankful for even the goofy things...a pedicure, my red laptop, Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty - the list goes on. It has been wonderful and meaningful...YEP!

So, I'm thankful for
* phone calls from my three girls (Janeen, Andie and Lindsay) just to chat.

* my new red jacket and two pairs of new shoes...gotta look at it this way...I'm helping the economy.

* the kind people who look after and take really good care of Duane. He lives in a home with 5 other elderly people. That home is nicer than any home he has ever lived in. It is really nice. The folks who care for him genuinely love him and appreciate what a good man he is. I feel like it was inspiration that led us to these caregivers.

Well I guess that's it until next November.

Thankful twenty-nines

2008-11-29T22:09:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful

* that our fake tree (AHHHHH! and Yuck) is up with the lights on. It is beautiful if you don't continually remind yourself that it is fake. At least it is dark green and fake.

* that tomorrow is Sunday.

* that someone else besides me is challenged to keep a secret. It gets easier as I get older. That usually works for most people.

* I've got to include this somewhere...I am so thankful for my 14 month old kitchen. I love everything about it. I love the pull out shelves, the pantry, the granite counter top, the new stove, oven and microwave. I love the deep sink and the brushed nickel faucets. I love the cupboard style and the pulls. I love the LONG bench that doubles as storage. I love the new table. When both leaves are added it could probably seat 10 people. I feel so fortunate to have the kitchen that I do. Gee, maybe I should start cooking again. Food for thought (get it?).

Thankful Twenty-eights

2008-11-28T21:47:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for...

*Christmas Carols - I am really enjoying the Forgotten Carols right now. I can hardly wait to get in my car and listen to them. If I were to be honest (that's a tough one!) I would admit that I listen to the Forgotten Carols throughout the year. I really like listening to them in June and July.
* my eyes that see - I was thinking today that these are the same eyes I have had for the last 60 1/2 years. I haven't had them replaced, they are the original model. They have worked wonderfully and have never taken a day off or had a vacation.
* my ears that hear - ditto for how hard they have worked and haven't quit on me.

I have often felt a little sorry for my heart. It hasn't had a vacation for longer than I have been alive. It has worked so hard. Someday it will have a vacation. I'll try to take better care of it. Yep, it' still working...I just checked.

Thankful Twenty-sevens

2008-11-27T09:40:00.000-08:00

I'm just plain old THANKFUL...

*My favorite gratitude scripture...I just don't want to be one of the 9 who do't give thanks for my blessings... Luke 17:12-19.

*I am grateful for Mickey... He allows me to be myself whether it's good or bad. He gives me free reign. He has supported me in The Moritorium on Money. He has the most delightful laugh and he uses it often. He is aware of his failings (I have helped him with that). He has a deep and sincere love of the Savior. He fully understands the Gift of Agency and refuses to be a party to taking someone else's away from them. He has a forgiving heart...THANK GOODNESS for that one. He is my companion. He lets me pester him (so important to a good relationship). He has a beautiful tenor singing voice. He sings as we drive and I love listening to him. He has accepted the Hansen Club and will do what he can to help them. That means so much to me as I am the president. He has willingly accepted my mom as a roommate. He is so good to her. I love my husband. That's kind of important.

* So, I'm not one of the Nine...I am thankful for Jesus. I am thankful for His Gospel plan. He has made it possible for me to be with ALL those I love forever...did you get that? FOREVER! He will clean me up (I picture being scrubbed on one of those old metal washboards) and get me ready to meet my Father in Heaven. Without that thorough scrubbing, I would be lost forever...did you get that? FOREVER!

Thankful Twenty-fives

2008-11-25T10:43:00.000-08:00

*Whoa! Today is pedicure day with Holly. I'm thankful for pedicures. Too bad it's not sandal weather. I think Mickey wants me to get a pedicure so I don't sand the hair from his legs in the middle of the night.

*I'm thankful for Tylenol Arthritis. Enough said!

* I'm thankful for Mickey's technician that is going to deep fry a turkey for us. HAH! not cooking an enormous turkey for Thursday...someone else is. Yahoo! Life is GOOD.

Sunday in the leaves with Carter and Marin

2008-11-25T10:34:00.000-08:00

We raked the leaves and then Carter and Marin ran through and all around them. I wish you could have been there to witness the hard work, conversation and fun as they ran around and through our pile. SOOO much fun!

Okay, here's my new haircut...HATE my neck!

2008-11-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

I might thoroughly dislike my neck, but the new naturally curly (thanks to Mentalpause) hair and Megan are cute. Oh, did I really say my hair is cute? Well, the only reason it is cute is because Lindsay does such a great job of cutting and styling it.

Thankful Twenty-fours

2008-11-24T09:55:00.000-08:00

These are RANDOM thankfuls...just things I was thinking as I was wandering through the refrigerator:
* I'm thankful that I can raise my left arm above my head...two years ago right now I could not - I was still recovering from surgery.
* I am thankful for the i-google home page on my computer. I love all the 'gadgets' that I have been able to add.
* I am thankful for the i-google gadget - quote of the day. They are great!

Hey, Megan, look at me using the word "gadget" and I almost know what it means.

I forgot this one...I am thankful for Megan Lynn Romo. She set me up for my blog. Hey, Megan -THANK YOU!

If there had been thankful twenty-threes

2008-11-24T08:54:00.000-08:00

Grandchildren via Chad and Janeen (oh, they are sooo good looking [Briggs], pretty [Livvy], cute [Em]. I have looked at those family pictures probably 25 times and I'm not exaggerating, this time.

Grandchildren via Andie and Morgan (oh, church is a wonderful experience! Easton smiling at ALL the little old ladies in Relief Society, who are quite taken with him...Bailey who bows her head on the end of the bench when a prayer is being said, is sure to cover her legs when she is reclining on the bench).

Grandchildren via Lindsay and Norm (oh, the afternoon with them was more then just entertaining...ice cream cones, swinging on the porch swing, talking about the trees and sky, raking leaves, playing Battleship, Marin throwing her shoes in the front seat while I'm driving, Marin locking us out of the house [she thought], a game of hockey in the living room with Carter)

I'm tired just thinking about it!

I have the most wonderful yesterdays with all of these kids. They ALL melt my heart and make me so greatful for their parents who have given them to the world. The world is honestly a better place because of these grandkids.

Last week was pretty tiring!

2008-11-22T18:44:00.000-08:00

Such a busy active week before Thanksgiving. I conferenced with each child's parent/parents telling them what a good student they have and trying to gently tell them that same student can also be a knothead, or crybaby if that's the case. Then we had our traditional/non-traditional Thanksgiving feast. The feast consists of Stupid Stew (no, I don't tel them the real name of the vegetable soup), rolls or cornbread, butter and of course, popcorn. They have to "dress up" (using the term loosely) as a pilgrim or Indian before the feast. Here are the pictures of the result.

Thankful twenty-twos

2008-11-22T18:32:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for Saturday afternoon naps. Hmmm, love 'em.

I am thankful for a Saturday afternoon movie. It it unusual one to coincide with a Saturday afternoon nap.

I am thankful for a Saturday afternoon wander around the backyard.

Thankful Twenty-ones

2008-11-21T21:06:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for my friend of 41 years. Gay Singleton Patterson is 61 years old today. We talk to each other on the phone twice a year...on our birthdays. She is exactly 6 months older than me. She was my roommate for at least 5 years while I was at Ricks and BYU. What a history we have...I'm just thankful she put up with me for all those years. She is truly an amazing woman.

I am thankful for my RED laptop. Not only does it work wonderfully, but it is snazzy at the same time.

Okay, fine! I've gotta say it again...I'm deeply thankful for Fridays. This Friday is a special one...I don't go back to school until December 1st. Dang! gotta repeat myself again...I am so thankful that I am a teacher. LOVE IT.

Ain't life great?

If there had been thankful twentys

2008-11-21T20:49:00.000-08:00

I would have said that I was thankful for:

My Mom! She is a lady of incredible determination. I have always known that, even when I was just a young'un. In spite of all kinds of set backs, she never, NEVER gives up. She continues to provide a worthy example for me to follow. AND, she laughs as she goes...WOW! I love my mom.

My Sister, Robin...she is a woman of many talents and great intelligence. She can entertain anyone. I have watched her do it. She cracks me up. I have always admired her kindness and her unselfishness. She has achieved remarkable success and helped others do the same thing. And she's even really pretty. Top that! I love my sister.

My Brother, Jack... He has been funny his whole life. He is a man that I knew I could always trust. AND, that is big. He has a generous heart. I love having meaningful conversations with him about meaningful subjects. He was a tremendous emotional support to me as I was raising my three wonderful kids. He's just a good man. I love my brother!

Thankful Nineteens

2008-11-19T18:55:00.000-08:00

*Oh boy, oh boy ! I am thankful for the Kendall family who allowed me to borrow a substantial amount of money to finish my schooling and become a teacher. I think of them often with gratitude.

*Years ago (like almost 40) I was given a possible life plan. I have loved referring back to it frequently and comparing my life as it is now with the possibility that existed those 40 years ago. I am thankful for the guidance that plan has provided.

*DANG, I am so thankful for the fall colors that surround the school campus. There are trees that are breathtakingly beautiful. Hmm, maybe I'll take a picture of one of them tomorrow. I'll probably forget...I am not thankful for my memory...that's okay it's Whiny Wednesday.

Thankful Eighteens

2008-11-18T19:53:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for Robert Frost... I love his poem, "Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Eve" and others as well. I used to be thankful for Shakespeare, but that was when I was in college and practiced thinking.

I am thankful for Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty.

I am thankful that Issac B. is at another school (he is the one who sang me the 'You're stupid, you're stupid, you're really, really stupid' song last year).

I am thankful for the month of posts...I think about being thankful all day long. It makes me aware of the wonders around me that I take for granted.

Thankful Seventeens

2008-11-17T19:46:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for the DVR. I can watch that REALLY good BYU Devotional any time I want.

I am thankful for Chapstick, not so much lipstick because I lick it off.

I'm thankful I get to be Easton's trampoline on Sundays. Church is so much fun with Easton and Bailey there. OOPS! is church supposed to be fun? Well, there are times!

Thankful Sixteens

2008-11-16T19:07:00.000-08:00

I think this all the time, don't know why I haven't posted it before.

* I am thankful for my in-law kids.
Janeen - I am so grateful for her being in Chad's life. I love being around when they start playing with each other. My whole inside smiles. I LOVE JANEEN.

Morgan - he is such a great partner for Andie. I'm so glad he's there with her. They share important responsibilites and in every way they work and play together. My whole inside smiles. I LOVE MORGAN.

Norm - I am so entertained by watching Norm and Lindsay play. They are buddies! They are both ready to play when the competition gauntlet is thrown down. My whole inside smiles. I LOVE NORM.

I know how important it is to be able to play with your spouse. It keeps the friendship going. I love knowing that my kids have married someone they can play with.

Thankful Fifteens

2008-11-15T22:14:00.000-08:00

* I'm thankful for answered prayers. . . more than I can even count.

* I am thankful for the opportunity to watch, just watch grandkids interract.

* I am so thankful on so many levels for the price of gas dropping.

* Tomorrow is Sunday...the day to renew.

Thankful Fourteens

2008-11-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

I just gotta say I'M STILL THANKFUL FOR FRIDAYS. I love 'em. They are most freeing.

I'm thankful for grapes. I'm eating them...letting them pop in my mouth right now. They have probably come from some foreign country without any kind of supervision/regulation and I don't care.

I'm thankful for the full moon. It has been beautiful this month.

Thankful Thirteens

2008-11-13T19:11:00.000-08:00

* I am thankful for my front/living room. It is quiet here and comfortable. I wonder if I will know when it is out-of-style. By-the-way, I'm not ready to hear that its already out of style.

* I am thankful, really thankful for the other first grade teachers at my school. We work well together considering that we are all human beings and females at that.

* I am thankful for how my first graders entertain me. I know this shouldn't be entertaining but today I had five cry babies (I was nice to most of them) and one kiddo who told me, "Mrs. Witt, I just barfed in my throat and then swallowed it right back down." What do ya say to that one? I also had one little guy who didn't feel good and when I asked him if he wanted to go to the office to see if he had a temperature, he fell into my arms hugging me with everything he had. He was one of the cryers I was nice to.

Thankful Twelves

2008-11-12T18:46:00.000-08:00

*I am thankful for cell phones...I can call my mom long distance everyday and it doesn't cost thousands of dollars like it used to when I called my sister-in-law. Was that a huge run-on sentence?

* I am thankful that I have a wonderful, accomplished hairstylist daughter who gave me a brand new DARLING, SHORT haircut yesterday. It was a smashing success at school today. I feel perky.

* I am so thankful for a car that I can depend on...it hasn't always been that way. Ya gotta go without to appreciate a fully operating car.

Thankful Elevens

2008-11-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

Today is Bailey's #4 Birthday. So, I'm thankful to be a Grandma Susie.

I'm thankful to be a wife (using the term loosely)

I'm thankful to be a mom (hence the opportunity to be a grandma).

And ... I'm thankful for the Plan of Happiness that ties it all together...FOREVER!

Thankful Tens

2008-11-10T19:50:00.000-08:00

*I am thankful for gentle (as opposed to candles that give you a headache) candles that cover last night's beef stew aroma. It was BAD this morning.

*I am thankful that I could look forward to parent/teacher conferences when my kids were in elementary school.

*I am thankful I can read.

Really? Do I really look all that bad?

2008-11-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

Saturday I rushed over to Andie's house to watch Easton crawl. I had just changed into my pjs when I left to go over there. On the way home, being Saturday (the day before Sunday), I decided to make a quick stop at the grocery store. As I was enjoying the produce aisle a lady walked passed me, looked me up and down and said, "hrumpf", in total disgust. I smiled at her and then realized what had just happened. Shoot man, like she was something special! She was dressed in regular old levi's and a sweatshirt...so what if she had tennis shoes on. Really, do I really look all THAT bad?

Thankful Nines

2008-11-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

* I am more than just thankful for the learned people in the Gospel Doctrine class. When there is a great lesson it is because they have shared their knowledge. Our Patriarch Warner is one such person. He gave so much understanding to the scattering and gathering of Israel.
* I am thankful for turtle neck sweaters...cashmere is especially nice.
* I am thankful for Direct TV satellites...we have a nice life because of Mickey's hard work with Directv.

Thankful Eights

2008-11-08T18:08:00.000-08:00

* I am thankful for my beautiful yard. I love having a place for 12 different rose bushes. There could actually be more than that, but it's raining outside and too dark to go out and count.
* I am thankful for the opportunity to learn more about the Book of Mormon. The 'opportunity' was given to me. I certainly didn't ask for it. In fact I tried to escape the opportunity...silly me.
* I am grateful for the red napping blanket that Lindsay/Norm gave us for Christmas a few years ago. Wonderful nap today under the napping blanket.

Here's an extra...I am thankful for my sewing machine that is four months younger than Andie. That means it is almost 31 years old. It still works.

It's still Friday

2008-11-07T22:38:00.000-08:00

These are the little ones who make me feel so grateful that Fridays roll around. They are a bunch of pretty cute kids. They are a bright bunch and NOT one of them has sung me the 'you're stupid' song. Ahh memories of a past class.

Thankful Sevens

2008-11-07T19:52:00.000-08:00

* It's Friday! I am so thankful...we have a four day week end!
* I am so thankful for the Holy Ghost...he has been whispering in my ear for the last couple of days and I actually heard it...SHOCK! but, I am so glad to be able to say that.
* I'm thankful that Emily and Mickey don't get all over me for only cooking a couple of times a week. Whitney! I need you!

Thankful Sixes

2008-11-06T19:08:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for those rare moments when I am home alone, the TV is off, there are only a few lights on...it's a great time to pause and meditate.

I am thankful for new baby sounds.

I am more than just thankful for the two ladies that come to clean my house every two weeks. I am so grateful that I have a husband who understands how awful it is to work for five days and then spend the 6th day of every week cleaning.

Thankful fives.

2008-11-05T16:02:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for whammo antibiotics.

I'm thankful for a body that can heal itself, unlike a broken chair or broken car.

I'm thankful that there are still some people in California who see 'marriage' as being something sacred.

Just one more for today...I'm thankful or a Room Mom who loves me enough to scout around and find me a half-day sub so I could go to the Dr.

Thankful fours

2008-11-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

* I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free. And I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me. So, I stand up next to you and defend her still today...and you might know the rest.
* I am thankful for people who understand the scriptures and are willing to share their understanding with me.
* I am thankful for my sister-in-law. We may not talk to each other frequently, but it is always refreshing when I do.

Thankful for...Three

2008-11-03T19:44:00.000-08:00

1. I'm thankful that Megan taught me about IMing...it's fun!

2. I'm thankful that Monday is over...it worked out okay today.

3. I'm incredibly thankful for where I teach...the picture is what I am looking at as I leave the classroom door.

Chapter 2 - Thankful for...

2008-11-02T22:39:00.000-08:00

* I'm thankful for the day after it rains...the sun seems brighter, clouds whiter and the sky bluer.
* I'm thankful for Sunday...not a day of rest, but certainly a day when boundaries are strengthened.
* I'm thankful for the church's organization where changes are seamless. Our Bishop died, suddenly, a few weeks ago. The plan was there and the ward ran smoothly under the direction of the Stake Presidency. We have a new Bishopric now. His house is a house of order.

November Gratitude

2008-11-01T21:09:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to do the 'thankful for's! Here's the first installment - the basics!

I'm thankful for the Mick Man...he's the icing on a really good piece of cake.
I'm thankful that I have 3 grown kids that will let me be a part of their lives.
Heck, I'm just thankful to have those 3 kids (that would be Handsome Prince Chad, Andie Boo-Boo Bear and Lindsay Ladybug.

Okay, Okay, Okay...

2008-11-01T20:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe it has been awhile since I've added to my blog. I just wanted to give you the opportunity to truly 'remember'. Do you believe that? I didn't think so. There really has been much I could have blogged about. I could have shared my two miserable Mondays. One Monday I got to school to discover that I had forgotten to turn the air-conditioner off in the classroom so the motion detector wouldn't set off the alarm (I'm not supposed to have things hanging from the ceiling for that very reason). SOOO, the hanging hands set the alarm off and the police had to report to the campus. YUCK! That cost the school $125.00. The principal was not so happy with me. The next Monday I rear ended a car as I merged into traffic. Never mind that she cut in front of me to go into a gas station. I still did the rear ender thing. Lucky for me, she didn't want to report it because she is an uninsured motorist. But you should see my lovely front license plate.

I could have blogged about Lindsay Abel's wedding at the Sacramento Temple, but Mickey erased the pictures after he uploaded (wow, computerspeak!) them onto his computer. I could go into his computer to post, but it's not red.

I could write about my cute first grade class full of cry babies, but that wouldn't be kind. They really are cute but there are a bunch who don't just cry they bawl hysterically. I am not really bugged by it. It almost amuses me. Yeah! First Grade Sicko teacher.

I could have blogged about this last week when I was contacted by a local TV station to be interviewed about my view of the YES on Proposition 8 - traditional marriage proposal and it's affect on classrooms, if defeated. And, yes I was interviewed and yes I did appear as a part of a news story 3 different times in two days. And yes, I am old and slightly chubby.

Ya know what? I have a good life, even if it is not reported consistently.

I'll get better, yep, I will.

Saturday in Enumclaw

2008-11-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

It really is beautiful where Chad and Janeen live. This Saturday, while I was there, we picked out pumpkins, washed the cars, found little green frogs on the grass, watched Livvy play with the worm, and just stare in awe at Emily who the day before had undergone a little surgery. Yep, she's the one romping in the gutter. Still, just more pictures!

OOPS! Here's the quick family picture...

2008-11-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

Autumn is Awesome!

2008-11-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

I loved this autumn because I got to go see Briggs, Livvy, Emily, Chad and Janeen. Initially, the occasion wasn't that great...Emily's surgery, but it sure turned out GREAT! I am going to just post the pictures, they speak for themselves! If you look carefully at the picture of the beautiful golden tree, you will see Mt Rainier in the distance. That tree is in Marcia and Bob's backyard. It provided a great setting for a quick family picture. I love Enumclaw Washington!

And then there's niece Megan!

2008-11-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

Without fail, Megan brings fun with her to our house. This night, it was decorating cupcakes with the Three Amigos... Oh, maybe it should be the Four Amigos. When you comin'again, Megan?

Remember

2008-09-11T21:15:00.000-07:00

We have been encouraged numerous times to 'remember'. Remember what? Choices we have made, paths that we have taken, people who have influenced our lives, lessons we have learned, numerous blessings received, and even significant historical events. All things 'remembered' woven together helps to make us the individuals we are. I love most 'remember when' stories as can be validated by my grown children. The one 'remember when' that tends to make me quiet, reserved and pensive is the bombing of the Twin Towers and the Pentagon as well as the heroic end to Flight 93 on 9/11, 2001. I remember the horror of watching the second plane hit the second tower. I remember the plumes of smoke and ash covering New York City. It is all a nightmare remembered. My memories are nothing compared to the thousands of families that lost loved ones. My thoughts are with those families this day.

I am so grateful to be a part of such a blessed nation. Blessed? Yes, even in spite of the horror of seven years ago, this is a blessed nation. It is a nation organized by inspired leaders who, under divine guidance, wrote the Constitution. It is by evil design that others would want to destroy it. I want to remember, daily, what it means to be an American. I want to remember, daily, what it means to be free to make choices that can be remembered.

Sweet Sweet Babies

2008-09-09T21:25:00.000-07:00

Remember number 19 and number 20? They were both blessed this past Sunday. Papa Mickey's blessing of Logan (still not much of a conversationalist) was beautiful and articulate. I felt privileged to have been there. I always enjoy hearing Randy bless his children. He is a great, loving, fun dad.

Grandchild # 20 - Nickolas with mom and dad, Randy and Amber.

Remember grandchild #19? Logan with mom and dad, Emily and David. No wonder Logan is not much of a conversationalist, huh?
This will be my favorite memory of the day...

These babies sure have a handsome, happy Papa Mickey.

A noteworthy Saturday!

2008-09-09T19:59:00.002-07:00

Dang it was a GREAT Saturday!

*Didn't get to spend much time at home, but where I went was just SUPER. I loved it. Life is all about Saturdays (at least during the school year).

*Mickey and I went to our favorite breakfast place (here's a free advertisement) the Original Pancake House in Roseville. There we met David, Emily and Logan - I'm telling you...that Logan is not much of a conversationalist. I had my VERY favorite ... Dutchbaby Pancake with extra lemon, butter and powdered sugar. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

*Traveled to Costco. Gez, we spend over $200.00 and I don't even know what we bought (so much for the Money Moritorium). Oh, now I remember, we bought HUGE bags of candy, lots and lots of candy. Gotta restock the candy bucket. It's a done deal.

*Doing the Grateful Grandma Duty was THE best. It was 100 degrees, we're outside watching Carter play his first for real soccer game. AND I got to see Carter make a goal,

Marin practicing her hot soccer game...

AND, I got to see Norm taking on the appearance of a holy one (that's a quote from him). In reality, he just wanted to protect his bald head from the 100 degree sun. He looks cute doesn't he?

2008-09-09T19:59:00.001-07:00

2008-09-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

The Sacrifice Update

2008-08-23T20:37:00.000-07:00

My leg is getting so much better! The lump is still there, but now it is getting green...that's gotta be good.Who feels sorry for me? Please don't, after all it's just in the course of the day when one saves one's mother's life. It is all worth it. Not everyone can be a heroine.

I'm thinking it will be another week of wearing long pants at school. I don't want to create nightmares for the little kids.

The Day I Saved My Mom's Life...

2008-08-23T20:16:00.000-07:00

See that lump on my leg? Pretty dramatic, huh? I got that lump because I saved my mom's life...No kidding! I believe I saved my mom's life. Now, her story may be a little different but here is what REALLY happened.

Mom was walking across her bedroom and tripped over a corner of her suitcase (it was on the floor so she could pack in anticipation for the Robin Snatch). She began spinning around trying to grab onto something to save her from falling. I saw what was happening and rushed to her aid (kinda). I was in the doorway. She was headed toward the metal chair leg that she uses when she is computerizing. I stepped into the path so she could hit my leg instead of the menacing metal chair stand. I was successful. I saved her life. But, her HARD head hit my shin. She was laying on the floor at my feet saying..."I hit my head". My response, "Yes, I know." And boy did I. The bulb began building SOON. Mom and Mickey saying, "You had better go see the Dr. about that". After an hour of icing and the lump had not dimished...I succumbed and went to the Dr. The prescription...ice and wrap. I could have told them that! This picture was taken as we drove to the Dr.

Are you impressed with my sacrifice?

How many of you have saved someone's life? I've done that twice. YEAH.

No More Sunday's with Mom/Grandma Betty

2008-08-23T20:10:00.001-07:00

Robin came and snatched my mom on Wedneday. Now, I will miss those spiritual Sunday's watching Mom deeply involved with her scriptures. She looks pretty peaceful as she reads from the book of Alma. Oh, wait, as I look a little closer, she isn't reading...she's napping. And that is what Sunday is all about!

Number 20

2008-08-23T19:55:00.001-07:00

Meet Nicholas (Nick) Abraham Onstine. He was born Wednesday August 13th. He joins Randy, Amber, Mac, Jack, and Luke. He really is number 20. Gez! that's a lot of grandkids. I was lucky enough to drop by after school to meet him.

Number 19

2008-08-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

Yep,
this makes number 19. I count the number of Hansen-Witt grandkids all the time, just to make sure.
I was so affected by the reverence present in the room when Logan Daniel was being born to Emily and David. The flurry of activity stopped and silence moved in as Logan was born. He was born August 8th. Yes! his birthdate is 8/8/08. How lucky is he going to be! Those of you still in the trenches having babies may not recognize the reverence of birth, but from one who has been there, and can now have the priviledge of observing...it's REAL.