Sheri's Living in Paradise - Not!

Merry Christmas Daddy

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

A Year Ago Today...

2011-12-24T11:00:00.000-08:00

A year ago today...the world lost an amazing man. A year ago today...some little ones lost their papa. A year ago today...many lost a loyal friend. A year ago today...I lost my daddy.

My Favorite Part of Christmas

2011-12-20T19:42:00.000-08:00

My favorite part of Christmas is the lights. I love all the colors, I love the blinking ones, I love the straightly hung ones, I love the crooked ones, I love the displays, I love everything about them.

When I lived in Sandy, I would travel to the poorer neighborhoods of Salt Lake because I loved how gaudy they did their Christmas lights. There was often no rhyme or reason to them. They were thrown here, there and everywhere. They were often so tacky, but they were always my favorite.

I also love the people that go all out trying to have the biggest display in the county. Of course they probably also have the biggest electric bill, not to mention the most traffic congestion on their street. I have often wondered if their neighbors enjoy the display as much as I do!

We found a display in Hurricane that had lights set to music. We pulled up and turned the radio station to the assigned channel. The lights pulsed and danced...a Rudolph even talked. It was so cool...I don't understand how they do that! Technology is amazing.

There have been years when I have missed driving around to see the lights...too snowy, too busy, too sick. Sometimes my family didn't want to go...they had better things to do ;) It never felt like Christmas if I didn't get to see the lights. I remember a special time a few Christmases ago when I was out on a December date. The gentleman drove me up a dirt road on the side of a mountain. He said, "I'm not one for driving around aimlessly looking at lights. But from this point, you can see all the Christmas lights in the valley." It was beautiful and took my breath away. It was a new way to look at lights and I appreciated his thoughtfulness in doing this for me.

Either way, driving around aimlessly - like Brooklyn and I did last week, or sitting on a mountain top - Christmas lights are my favorite part of Christmas.

My Solo Debut

2011-12-17T07:42:00.000-08:00

So anyone who knows me knows I couldn't hit a correct note if my life depended on it. But last night at our Ward Christmas Party, I sang a solo. In front of 300 people. With a microphone. Thank goodness it was a comedy. We performed "The Twelve Pains of Christmas". My line was "Fiiiiiiive months of bills" repeated 7 times.

Last year I thought about putting "Learn to sing" on my bucket list, but I didn't have faith I could do it. I should have shot for the stars and put "sing a solo", then I would have had something to check off!

He's Famous!

2011-12-15T13:19:00.000-08:00

So last week a columnist from the Deseret News came into Wasatch Running Center and wanted to do an article on "Gifts for the Outdoor Enthusiast". Brandon was happy to help. He ended up modeling some clothes for her. We were excited yesterday to see the article in the newspaper and a huge picture of Brandon. He looked great! Funny how when I mentioned it to people that know both him and me, they said they didn't recognize it was Brandon because they were choking over the $350.00 price tag of the coat. Yep, running enthusiast take their sport seriously and don't mind dropping the big bucks to keep themselves looking good!

These photos only appeared in the online version of the Deseret News:

Brandon said he has already been contacted by two modeling agencies to model underwear. (wink wink) Good thing he has been working out!

A Dream Come True

2011-12-13T21:55:00.001-08:00

Yep, all these things were a part of my day today. Sunshine, 55 degree temps, and sandals. This is one of the reasons I moved down South.

In the beginning it just didn't seem right to be wearing sandals in December...I mean it is kind of like not wearing white shoes after Labor Day. Something is just wrong about it. But then I thought, if I was in Hawaii I wouldn't wear a parka just because it was December. So I am enjoying the warmth and living the dream.

Anytime I can put sandals on, it is a good day!

Macbeth

2011-12-13T08:45:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn just completed the Hurricane High School play "Macbeth". It was phenomenal. The practices were long (14 weeks) and grueling. Some nights she wasn't home until after 10 pm. She played 3 roles: a bright angel, a soldier and a servant. I was proud of her.

The first night of the play, I made the mistake of sitting on an aisle. These unitard covered demons continuously slithered up and down the aisles on their bellies moaning and groaning. They gave me the heebie-geebies! On closing night I made sure to sit in the center.

Way to go to the entire Macbeth team. You all did an incredible job.

During this very busy time, Brooklyn managed to keep a positive attitude, and somehow keep her grades up. One thing that suffered however, was her room. Brooklyn is a orderly girl. She keeps her room clean and makes her bed everyday. During Macbeth, the chores fell through the cracks. I didn't nag her because I knew she was exhausted and doing her best to keep up with school. I was hoping she wouldn't fall into bad habits. Thank goodness she didn't. This is what her room looks like today!

I love the pictures of her friends and family that cover the wall by her bed. Brooklyn is one of the most loyal people I know. If you made the wall, you got a forever friend in Brooklyn.

HigHligHts oF tHe PaSt FeW wEEks

2011-12-11T13:42:00.000-08:00

I love Halloween. This year I didn't dress up :( but my kids did. I have a scrapbook that has pictures of them each year in their costumes. I am glad they keep dressing up so I can keep adding to it!

For Thanksgiving, Brooklyn and I went to the Stewart's home. We were so blessed to have Brandon and Amber come to Meadow to join us. Ginger set a beautiful table with each individual place uniquely set. Brooklyn and Bailey made place cards for everyone and set them in a pine cone. The food was delicious. Thanks to Tyler and his dad, Vern for welcoming all of us into their family!

We really miss Justin and although we know he is serving the Lord, our thoughts are often of him. For Christmas he asked me to send him a pair of Nikes. Mailing to Nicaragua is expensive and often times packages don't ever make it. I did not want to risk sending him Nikes. One of his prior mission companions was finishing his mission and his mother asked me if there was anything I would like her to take to Elder Moore. She was happy to take him his shoes. I was so thankful to receive a picture of the two of them. Amy Brown blessed my life and his with her act of service.

Today is a beautiful day in La Verkin. The sky is blue and the sun is shining. It actually feels warm here in the middle of December. After church Brooklyn and I went over to Papa's grave and decorated it for Christmas. He was in the hospital last year at Christmas time and I suggested we hang a wreath or a stocking in his room. He defeated that idea fiercely...he didn't want any clutter around. He did let me hang Christmas cards on his t.v. armoire. Well, this year he couldn't tell me "No". So we bought a few Christmas decorations and enjoyed spending the time doing what he didn't care for :) Don't mean to be rebellious Dad, but we love you and have to find ways to show it since you aren't here with us anymore. I am thankful I live close to you and am able to do this for you and for all of our family who don't live close by. We love you daddy!

My Dad's Birthday

2011-11-27T22:36:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for the greatest man I ever knew... my father. It is his birthday and I will miss fixing him banana pudding, giving him a gift he will always return because he feels we need the money more than he needs the gift, and kissing his bald head. He taught me how to enjoy life, how to not sweat the small or the large stuff, and how to love. I miss your baby blue eyes, your cute little smirk, and your jokes that you told over and over again. I love you and miss you daddy.

Pomegranate Heaven!

2011-11-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

I have loved living in the warm climate of Southern Utah for many reasons. For months now I have watched the pomegranates grow on our neighbors' trees. They are beautiful. Big and red.

Today I seeded all the pomegranates we were given by our wonderful neighbors. They are so yummy. This is only about a third of what we now have!

I googled how to seed them and how to freeze them. It was so easy and quick...and we now have a bounteous crop of pomegranate seeds. Brooklyn and I plan to plant our own pomegranate tree next year...but until then, we are so blessed.

The Reception

2011-10-29T15:04:00.000-07:00

The reception was held at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi. It was beautiful, fun and perfect in every way. It all was a direct reflection of Amber and Brandon.

They just had a good time !

One of the highlights of the evening was when they broke out in dance...these two goofy kids know how to have fun!

They left in a sea of sparklers. A perfect ending to a perfect day.

I am so thankful for Amber and her parents for making this day so beautiful. It was relaxing, it was fun, and it was perfect. Best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Moore on their journey through eternity.

A Sacred Experience

2011-10-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

On June 30, 2011, Brandon and Amber were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple.

I arrived on Saturday, June 25, to attend Amber's endowment session in the Draper Temple. I then spent the week staying in their basement apartment in Holladay.

On the morning of June 30th, Brandon and I awoke to a cell phone alarm going off. He realized he had Amber's phone in his pants pocket. It was 6:30 a.m. We had not planned to get up so early but it was the wedding day and neither of us was going back to sleep. Brandon crawled into bed with me and we spent some time chatting. I told him how proud I was of him, how he had done all the right things, how I loved him. I was excited for the sealing. I was also excited to feel my dad in the temple. I knew he would be there on this special day.

As we entered the sealing room in the Salt Lake Temple, we sat down. At the front of the sealing room are 3 chairs. The middle chair is for the sealer. The chairs on each side are for the witnesses...the men who witness the marriage. Usually the bride and the groom each choose their witness. Amber, of course, chose her father. Brandon would have chosen my dad if he was still alive. Because he was not able to be there, he chose his adopted dad, Skip Morgan. Skip has been a father to my children since their dad left. When Brandon returned from his mission, Skip invited him to move in with their family since we had moved four hours away from the town he had grown up in. Brandon did that. I knew Skip and his wife Jen loved him and treated him as their own.

Skip has multiple sclerosis. He often uses a wheel chair. He entered the sealing room in the wheelchair and stayed in it for the sealing ceremony.

As the ceremony began, I looked at the two witness chairs. Greg Adamson, Amber's father, was in one. Skip was in his wheelchair leaving the other witness chair empty. I knew at that very moment that my dad was sitting in that empty witness chair. I did not see him, but I could feel him.

It was a very emotional time for me. The ceremony was beautiful. Brandon and Amber are now sealed together for time and all eternity. The day was everything I hoped it would be for them. I was so grateful, that even though my dad has passed beyond the veil, the temple knows no boundaries. He was there to enjoy this wonderful time with all of us.

The last few months...

2011-10-25T17:21:00.000-07:00

The last few months have been filled with so many good things. I didn't want to share until I could start from the very beginning...it's a very good place to start! As most know, it takes a little while to get wedding photos, and that is what I was waiting for to document the wedding of Brandon and Amber.

On June 29, we had the dinner at the Hidden Valley Country Club. The food was wonderful, but the really fun part was the photo booth which was set up. Here are a few pictures from that crazy night:

These two were made for each other!

Brandon and his boys...

The cousins:

The ladies who raised the boy:

The newlyweds of one month:

There were so many more pictures I could share, but I think you get the idea. It was such a fun evening full of personality and laughter. Photo booths rock!

A Memorable Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-03T14:30:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day weekend began on Saturday for me. My son Brandon and his fiance Amber came down to join me and Brooklyn for a night. We had a nice lunch on the outdoor patio - nachos and strawberry shortcake. Then we met up with Grandma at the cemetery. I have never been to "Decoration Day" as I have never lived by any of my families' graves. Now that my father is buried nearby - and he was a Vietnam vet - we were able to go and pay tribute to him. We decorated his grave and talked about the heroism he had as he flew 4 missions over Hanoi allowing many American prisoners to be released. He flew over 360 combat missions as a navigator/bombardier on the B-52 bomber. I know my dad doesn't like froo-froo, so hopefully the grave was to his liking.

The next day, Sunday, was my little sister Ginger's wedding. This date, May 29, was significant because it is my mom and dad's anniversary. She married a wonderful man who knew and loved her children before he even knew her. The wedding was held on Tyler's property in an open air barn. The ceremony went beautifully, but then the wind started blowing, the rain started falling and we all started freezing in the 46 degree weather. We chattered as we ate the BBQ lunch and finished off with the beautiful cake Ginger's friend had made. I had some favorite quotes during the wedding and reception. The mayor, who was marrying Ginger and Tyler said, "I have never seen two people more anxious to get married." Tyler said, "I do" at least 3 times before it was time to say I do! The mayor finally said, "I will tell you when it is time." He is a darling man and wept through the ceremony. He is so in love with Ginger and her with him. Laynie couldn't stop smiling. She said her smile was frozen on...and although that could have been true, I think everyone was just really happy for this new little family. Ginger and her kiddos will now call Meadow, Utah home. It is only two hours from here, so I know I will still see them often. Congratulations - and Tyler, welcome to the family. I hope you like us as much as we like you :)

The fun continued into Tuesday when we made a quick trip up to Sandy for Amber's family bridal shower. I had to work that morning and the next afternoon, so when I say it was quick, I mean it! The shower was at her Grandma's house and it was fun, delicious and beautiful. We had enchiladas, taco salad, key lime pie, chocolate covered strawberries and lots of other yummy food. The party was fun and Brandon arrived for the last half. It was so fun to see those two kids again. I am so excited for them to begin their married life together. Their marriage has been five years in the making as they began dating two years before he left on his mission. As the dutiful mother-in-law to be, I gave them their bedding with some fun bedroom games. Let's hope they don't open them until the night of June 30th!

We stopped by the old neighborhood to drop off a few wedding gifts and were lucky to see a few friends. It was nice to see their smiles and feel their hugs. And then we were off again to drive back South. We stopped and stayed the night in Meadow at the newlywed's house. They didn't mind us crashing there as we helped them move in some stuff and got the beds set up. Thanks Stewart family for hosting us while you were still on your honeymoon!

It was a very busy four days, but I wouldn't have traded any of it. Each event signified that families are the most important thing in this world.

Brooklyn's New Ride

2011-05-28T05:57:00.001-07:00

Where does the time go? My baby girl will be sixteen in a couple of weeks. I was surprised when she said she wanted her first car to be a truck. She said she wanted to haul around her dog and garden supplies! She gets embarrassed when I say this, but she is working so hard to make the backyard look nice. I do the front yard and she does the back yard. She researches different flowers, buys and plants them, and even learned how to hook up the drip system. She is a very hard worker and it shows with how the yard is taking shape. We even hung the tire swing this week!

We could use another vehicle in the family, so we were mui excited to find this 11 year old truck that looked brand new and nearly was with only 69,000 miles on it. After purchasing it, we took it to a repair shop for inspection and they said they couldn't find one thing wrong with it...SCORE!!!

I love that Brooklyn now gets to do her practice driving in her own car instead of mine :) We have been driving about 45 minutes a night to get her practice time in...and with gas prices what they are...it is pricey!

We were able to go to the city dump yesterday and bring back a load of compost for our garden because we now have a truck in the family. Sad thing was, Brooklyn had just washed her car the day before. Oh well.

Enjoy your new car Brooklyn...you look good in it!

One Blessed Mama

2011-05-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day rocked for me this year. Actually it rocks for me every year because I have 3 great kids.

Brandon surprised me on Saturday night by showing up at the door at about 9:30pm. I was jumping up and down, squealing with delight. I was even more excited when he said he would be able to stay until Tuesday morning. I had a beautiful time with him and he even took me on a date! Thanks Brandon for being the perfect son for me. You made your mama so happy :)

One of the most magnificent blessings that comes with being a "missionary mama" is that my son is able to call me on Mother's Day. This year we were able to skype. It was wonderful to see his face and hear his voice. Because the electrical outlets in this house burn up my computer cords, we have to plug the computer in the bathroom GFI outlet to charge it. We spent 3 hours skyping with Elder Moore and much of it was spent sitting on the toilet with the laptop sitting on the bathroom sink. This shot was in the beginning before it died! It was so fun for Justin to be able to skype with his brother and sister, cousins, his aunt and his grandma who were also here for the big event. He was also able to meet Ginger's fiance Tyler for the first time! Elder Moore, thanks for spending time with me on Mother's Day. I love you and am so proud of you.

Brooklyn gave me a beautiful red geranium for Mother's Day. I love it...but the best gift of all was watching her receive her Young Women's medallion. She has worked so hard to complete her Personal Progress (with little help from me) and I am so proud of her. She received her medallion on Mother's Day and the next Sunday she was honored at an amazing Stake Recognition Night. The decorations, the speakers, the feeling of it all was perfect. Brooklyn is a wonderful daughter and she brightens each day of my life.

This year my mom, Ginger and her fiance Tyler and her kids came to join us for Mother's Day dinner. We had yummy Coconut Chicken Curry with mango salsa and some delish banana splits for dessert.

When I was a younger Mom, Mother's Day was always a painful day. I do not know if I expected to much from my children or from myself. I have learned to not have expectations....to just let the day flow. When this happens, I am always blessed to overflowing. This was a perfect day. I may not be the perfect mom, but my children let me know I am the perfect mom for them.

Thank you Brandon, Justin and Brooklyn for giving me the best gift in the world...that of being a mother. I love each one of you with all my heart.

Live Your Best Life

2011-04-28T06:47:00.001-07:00

Clarifying Life

2011-04-26T06:34:00.000-07:00

My life this past year has been a weeding out process. There was too much pain and chaos circling around me. I realized I needed to do some damage control in my own life...so I made some pretty drastic decisions. I find I am more quiet than I was in the past. I don't need to explain my thoughts or actions. I can just "be". This quote brought clarity to my soul:

There are times when it is best to take action… to explain yourself, have your point of view heard, look at all the angles, and hear what the other has to say.

There are also times when it is best to remove yourself from the situation and let the chips fall where they may. Let the other players bump up against the void that was once you. Let the other players make a choice that would open the door…or not.

Action is often short-sighted. Sometimes it’s best to let the chips fall where they may without your hand attempting to direct everyone involved.

From Beverlee Garb's Sole Purpose Community

My Paralyzed Heart

2011-04-08T11:05:00.001-07:00

I didn't expect to become so paralyzed by the death of my father. I do have a testimony that I will see him again, I do know he is free from the discomforts of his mortal life, I know all these things. But I still need him!

In the beginning after he died, I dreamt about him every night for about 3 weeks. The dreams were mostly nightmares. One day I just yelled, "Leave me alone!" And leave me alone he did. My dreams of him stopped.

As time went on I heard my sister, my aunts, and other people say they had felt my dad's presence. I didn't. But I also knew why...because I had told him to leave me alone. One morning while sitting in sacrament meeting, I began to wonder if my dad was around me. At that very moment, a little toddler walked from the other end of the pew, holding a hymn book. She laid the book down beside me and turned and went back to her mother. I looked down and the hymn book was open to "Have I Done Any Good?" This was a hymn my dad requested for his funeral service. At that moment I knew he was there with me.

A few weeks later my mom and I were driving back from St. George. My mom was saying that she knew my dad was watching over me and my sister as we were struggling with being single women and all that entails. I told my mom in no uncertain terms that I didn't feel my dad was watching over me. My life had not been any easier and things were not looking any happier. That night as I slept, my dad entered my dreams again. He came into the living room. My sister, my son and I could all see him, but no one else in the room could. I took this as a sign, that at that time, he was watching over and helping the three of us.

Little things like these two stories, help me to feel my dad. I miss him so much. One of the greatest blessings of moving to Southern Utah is that my home is only about a mile from my dad's grave. A few times a week I go there to talk to him. It is very difficult for me not having a priesthood holder in my life anymore. My son Brandon holds the priesthood but he is in Sandy and my other son Justin holds the priesthood, but he is in Nicaragua. I do not have a husband to give me blessings of comfort and of strength. And now I do not have a dad to call upon. But when I go to the grave, I feel like he is there. wrapping his arms around me, giving me courage to face the day.

I do know that in time, I may begin to move a little easier, to feel a little more joyful, to find peace...but right now I just feel paralyzed missing him. I love you dad. You were my quiet presence and my gentle rock. I didn't know how hard it would be to let you go.

A Perfect End to a Perfect Life

2011-01-09T14:23:00.000-08:00

Carrying out some one's wishes is very fulfilling. Knowing that my dad had planned his own funeral, made the time between his death and the service peaceful. He had arranged the prayers, the songs, the speakers, and the pallbearers. And can I say, "He did a wonderful job!"

A few days before the funeral, we went to choose the flowers. My mom chose "The Yellow Rose of Texas" for his casket spray and adorned it with a ribbon that said, "Loving Husband." The flowers from the grandchildren were patriotic in honor of his and our love of this great country. Their ribbon said, "Perfect Papa", which he was to them. As daughters we gathered to pick out the children's spray. We wanted it to be perfect, to have meaning. This meant going back and forth through the books trying to determine what our last tangible gift to him would be. We finally decided on a custom bouquet. I picked sunflowers for his ever-sunny disposition. My sister Lori chose yellow roses to continue the theme of his heritage, and my little sister Ginger chose some blue flowers to symbolize the Texas blue bonnets. Our ribbon said simply, "Our Daddy". The flowers were all beautiful and meant something deeper to us.

Tuesday night, December 28, 2010, was the viewing at Metcalf Mortuary. We stood in our family line, oldest to youngest. As different friends and family members walked in, I was overcome with love. My dad was a joy to be around; he loved people. But I was still surprised as people drove hours round trip to pay their respects to this great man.

I kept gravitating back to the casket. It seemed like the only place I wanted to be. It was a sacred place. Although there were many people there, I had the opportunity to spend much time alone there. I was touched by the note that my 6 year old nephew Jake had brought all the way from Tennessee and tucked into the casket beside his Papa's arm. He shared the note with me, it said he loved him and that he had lost his two front teeth. I know my dad would have loved that.

The viewing room was anything but reverent. We had over 100 family members come from coast to coast. The grandchildren were great in number. Although my father lay there and everyone took multiple turns strolling back and forth from casket to family to chairs, there was a feeling that my dad would have been happy. He loved laughter, he loved to see people enjoying each other, he loved family...but he most especially found joy in his grandchildren.

For his display table, we each did a picture frame of our life with him. There was one from his family growing up, one of him and my mom, and one for each of us kids. We also included his Air Force awards, his cowboy hat, and other memorabilia from his life. It was easy after browsing the table to see he had a very fulfilling and rewarding life.

As the night wore on and people began to disperse, we began to make preparations for the funeral the next morning. We knew that would be the hardest day of all. The viewing on Wednesday morning, December 29, was much more reverent than the night before. I knew, as did everyone else, that this would be the last time I would be able to physically see and touch my father. At the conclusion of the viewing, my mother, me and each of my siblings, went up to say our final goodbyes. The crank on the casket was turned, lowering my father lower into the casket. The top was closed, and one final lock was twisted to seal him safely inside. It was so hard to experience all the emotions at that time. The sights, the smells, the sounds of that moment are etched into my memory. My Uncle R.B. gave the family prayer and then we slowly followed the casket into the chapel.

The service went just as my father had directed. It felt good to be able to fulfill his wishes. My brother Jon gave an incredible eulogy. He talked about how my father lived, loved, learned and left a legacy. It was truly a tribute to my father both as a husband, father, comic, hard worker, priesthood holder and Son of God. My daughter Brooklyn wrote a beautiful poem for him titled, "Through My Eyes" and he had requested she read it. The grandchildren sang and sobbed through, "I Am A Child of God" and "Families Can Be Together Forever". His testimony was evident through his hymn choices of "I Believe in Christ" and "I Know That My Redeemer Lives". My cousin Allison played the guitar and sang my father's favorite song, "His Hands". I was surprised when my dad had requested we sing, "Have I Done Any Good in the World Today?" It seemed an unusual song for a funeral. Yet as we sang that hymn, I was overcome with tears as I knew that every word of that song represented my dad. He truly went about serving others. His final concerns before he died were had he been a good man and had he endured to the end. He had!

As the service let out, we walked to the entryway to watch the pallbearers put the casket into the hearse. It was raining and it did not let up for us. As I was driving to the cemetery with my son and his fiance I said, "Some say when it rains it is because the angels are crying. But I don't think they are crying today." My son, Brandon said, "Yes they are mom. Papa is telling them jokes and they are laughing so hard they are crying." I could see that being true.

As we arrived at the cemetery, what I saw took my breath away. There were many uniformed men standing at attention. All for one man...my father. The feeling was one of utter sacredness. Even the drizzling rain seemed to add to the feelings I was feeling. We stood silently as the flag draped casket was carried to the grave site. The gun salute was given, "Taps" was played on the bugle, the flag was folded and presented with some comforting words about service to God and country to my mother. Then my brother Jon dedicated the grave to be a place free from destruction and to house my father's body until the resurrection when spirit and body would be rejoined to form that perfect union. Tears were shed.

The pallbearers laid there boutonnieres on the casket and my mom, I and my sisters and the granddaughters placed our long stem yellow roses on the casket.

Then I was able to pay the final tribute. Texas is our homeland. It is the land of my father's birth as well as my own. My Aunt Elaine and my cousin Maria, were kind enough to send some dirt from their Texas gardens. I poured this dirt under my father's casket so he could be buried on Texas soil. It seemed only fitting that if he couldn't go to Texas, Texas could come to him. What a feeling of home that provided.

Slowly the crowd dispersed. I kissed the casket as my final goodbye to my perfect father. I am so grateful to live just a mile away from where he is buried. Even though I know his spirit no longer resides there, I look forward to the days I can go there and talk with him and feel close to him.

There are some things I will really miss. I will miss kissing my daddy's bald head. I will miss seeing his twinkly blue eyes and his great smile, I will miss hearing his jokes - he got better at remembering the punchlines, and I will miss his thumbnail. Last year he accidentally drilled into his thumb. His nail never healed properly and was wavy and bumpy. While he was in the hospital and while he lay at rest in his casket, I would keep rubbing his thumbnail. Call me crazy, but it gave me comfort. But more than anything, I will miss just knowing he is there...on the other side of the door, or on the other end of the phone, or ready to twirl me as we danced, or anxious to lay his hands on my head to give me a father's blessing, or his open arms just waiting to envelop me in a comforting hug. My dad was always there ready to receive and love me in any way I needed.

The day of my daddy's funeral was one of no regrets. I wouldn't have changed a single thing. He lived his life beautifully and this day commemorated his life in the same beautiful manner. How blessed I was to have had him for my 45 years, and how grateful I am to know he is my daddy forever. I will always love and honor you. Rest in peace Dad, and I will try to find peace as well, until we meet again.

Charles DeLee Pennington

2010-12-27T18:48:00.000-08:00

Hurricane, Utah - Charles DeLee Pennington, 73, laid down his earthly body on Christmas Eve December 24, 2010 in St. George, Utah. Blue eyed baby Charles was born on November 27, 1937 to Mabel Florence Lindsey and Hugh Smith Pennington in Henderson, Texas. Charles was the first-born and older brother to 4 younger siblings. In 1963, Charles married Mary Jo Fawcett in the Los Angeles LDS Temple for time and all eternity and together they shared 46 years and 4 adoring children. Charles grew up in the oil fields of East Texas and shared many wonderful memories with his exceptional family. He attended school at Texas A&M and joined the ROTC program, foreshadowing his Air Force career. After graduating from BYU, the Air Force took him to many places including California, Utah and ultimately Vietnam. Charles heroically flew 365 combat missions earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and 2 Oak Leaf Clusters. After the war he owned his own business, Home Security Shop and later enjoyed working for and retiring from General Dynamics/Lockheed Martin. He has always been a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He honorably served a 2 year mission to Northern California and held many callings throughout the years that brought him much joy. Charles’s life was one of service. His humble nature and love of all those around him blessed all that knew him. His talents were many and he selflessly shared himself unceasingly. You could always count on him for a joke or a listening ear, a bowl of homemade ice cream or help doing a home improvement project. The love he had for his family was immeasurable and the happiness they shared everlasting. His presence will be deeply and severely missed.

Charles leaves behind his wife, Mary Jo Fawcett Pennington and a posterity that includes four children and 14 grandchildren: daughter, Sheri Moore of LaVerkin, Utah and her children, Brandon, Justin (currently serving a mission in Nicaragua) and Brooklyn; daughter, Lori (Mark) Holyoak of Lolo, Montana and their children, Aubrey (Kenny Johnson), Lacey, Jace and Hallie; son, Jonathan (Lisa) of Cordova, Tennessee and their children, Nathan, Samantha and Jake; daughter, Ginger Wilcox of Cedar City, Utah and her children, Bailey, Dawson, Weston and Laynie. Also, missing him terribly are his 4 siblings: R.B. (Lena) Pennington of Aubrey, Texas, Louise (Lloyd) Freeman of Raleigh, North Carolina, Elaine (Jimmy Dan) Gauntt of Austin, Texas and Judy Rehkop of Tyler, Texas. He is once again reunited with his parents and grandparents, along with many friends and family that have gone on before him and what a wonderful reunion it was sure to be! Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Hurricane LDS Stake Center, 272 South 700 West, Hurricane, Utah. Visitations will be held Tuesday, December 28th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Metcalf Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 140 North Main Street and on Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Stake Center, prior to services. Charles will then be laid to rest with full military honors at the Hurricane City Cemetery directly following the funeral service. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Hurricane Valley Mortuary, (435) 635-9922.

My Dad - The Greatest Man I Ever Knew

2010-12-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

Some people, in life, get lucky. I know I am one of them. I was born to an amazing man. My father, Charles DeLee Pennington, left this mortal existence to journey onward to paradise on Christmas Eve day, 2010.

My father has always been strong and healthy. Four years ago he was diagnosed with fibrosis of the lungs. Some allergen had entered his lungs and laid dormant. One day it decided to make itself known and since then he has carried around an oxygen tank for this same amount of time. It has always been a hassle to him, dragging the tanks, packing enough in the car to last for his frequent day trips, wearing the cannula in his nose. But he did it and without much complaint.

At Thanksgiving time he began to cough and he never quite recovered. He was taken to the emergency room on December 12 and was admitted that same day. He was quite the character. Always telling the nurses jokes, entertaining his many visitors, or telling us how much he enjoyed having his family around him. We never left him alone for even one minute. One of us kids was always spending the night with him and making sure all was well.

He could not believe that they served three full meals a day in the hospital. He was not use to eating so much food so he asked for smaller portions. He began to get hungry in between time and asked the nurse for extra food from the cafeteria. One night he asked the nurse for a grilled cheese sandwich...and said, "And not a wimpy one..." The nurse delivered a thick sandwich, chips, Dr. Pepper, fruit cup and pudding. My dad exclaimed, "I bet the people in the cafeteria said..That guy in room 303 is a pig, load him up!" Later that same night he was watching an infomercial on an excercise glider. He said, "I don't think now is the time for me to begin an exercise program." I laughed so hard I cried.

A miracle happened on Monday. Justin is serving his mission in Nicaragua. He and his papa have a very special relationship. I knew it would be very painful for him to lose his papa while he was gone. On Monday as he was emailing for his p-day, I caught him online. I quickly emailed him telling him of his papa's condition. Although I did not believe my dad would pass as quickly as he did, I thought it important that Justin get to converse with him. Justin arranged to go to his Stake President's home and skype with my dad. They were able to talk face to face - computer to computer - for quite awhile. I know that this was a tender mercy.

My dad was in a very unique position. He had only one thing wrong with him...his lungs. He could sit in the bed, talk, joke, eat and watch movies. But he could not breathe. If he tried to use the bedside commode, only 3 steps away, he was gasping for air and it would take 4 nurses and 30 mintues plus medication to get him settled down and breathing regularly. It was scary to watch. Eighteen litres of oxygen were being pumped into his lungs each minute. The hospital considers 4 litres high.

He had decided that he would go home on hospice. But the day held many obstacles and his transport home was postponed. That night the electricity at his house went off because of terrible rain and flooding. Had he been at home, it could have been a life threatening situation because his oxygen was connected electrically. We as his family would have been frantically trying to keep him alive without help from medical personnel. At this time we did not know how close he already was to death. The following day it was evident that transporting him would cause too much trauma to his body and it was determined he would finish his mortal journey in the hospital.

Because of his situation he could choose when he wanted to end his life. His lungs would never recover, he would never be able to leave his bed, he was losing his appetite, his heart had already begun to enlarge because of all the extra work it was doing, his veins were constricting. The writing was on the wall. My dad had jokingly said, "I think January 3rd would be a good day...and it would help with our taxes."

But for some reason that day changed. I spent the last night with my father. On the morning of December 23rd I woke up and saw him looking at me from across the room. He said, "Sheri, today is the day. Let's plan the funeral and then you can call your mother and sisters to come over so we can finalize everything." He said nothing extreme happened...no visions, he had been feeling an occassional tapping on the shoulder from some invisible source...but he just knew it was time to go. He asked me to dial each of his siblings, my brother who had barely left to fly back to his home in Memphis, the bishop of his ward. He wanted to talk to each of them. He began by saying, "It is time to lay my life down"...but by the final phone call he was saying, "I'm going to buy the farm."

I had spent much time alone with my dad, we all had. I had my chance to say goodbye. I had my time to love on him, reminisce with him, tell him how perfect he was as my father. It was a magical time. When he lay in his hospital bed, I crawled in right next to him. I wanted to lay my head on his shoulder. I wanted to be his little girl all over again.

As the time drew near he began to talk about what he wished for when he got to heaven. My dad loves, loves, loves banana pudding. He said he hoped they would have banana pudding and watermelon on the buffet in heaven. I had thought all week about making him some, but I wanted to be with him every spare moment I had. I mentioned to the CNA Sheila, that I wish he had some banana pudding. In Dixie Regional Medical Center...ask and you shall receive. Sheila arrived with two pieces of banana cream pie. I fed him the pie, minus the crust, and he got the banana pudding he had been longing for. Thank you Sheila for being sensitive to my father's wishes. Each of the nurses and CNAs there were so kind and attentive. My father continually commented on how well he was taken care of. He had not one complaint...but then again, he never did. My dad was a ray of sunshine always.

We began to make the preparations for the time to begin his journey home. His little sister was arriving from Texas at 1:15 am on December 24th. He wanted time to visit with her. He continued to look at the clock. He continued to say he was ready. The whole day he had a peaceful look on his face. A goofy grin at times. His vitals were better than ever before as he had no longer had the anxiety from trying to breathe, but had relinquished himself to entering the next world. When the nurse would come in he would say, "I am going home...to paradise."

The nurses were so wonderful at the hospital. One nurse in particular, Jarvis, had spent time watching "Pure Country" with my dad and talking about old westerns. His shift ended at 6pm on Dec. 23, but he came in and spent 45 minutes with my dad, talking to him, letting him know what to expect, answering his questions and wishing him joy in his journey. He thanked him for being the ideal patient. He said, "It has been my pleasure to serve you." My dad left everyone feeling better. Then Jarvis turned to me and said, "Your family has never left your father alone. That is unusual. I know you have great love for your dad and I know that is because he had great love for you." It is true.

My sister purchased recordable story books for each of us. It was touching, yet comical, as we all stood around my father's bed, book in hand, recording as he read each page. What a treasure to share with the generations to follow. I was so proud of my dad, he spoke loud and clear and read without error. Even in his worst of times, he knew he was leaving something of great value for his posterity. Now each Christmas Eve, as we celebrate the Savior's birth, we can also remember my father's death and cherish his voice as he reads The First Christmas story.

At 2:00 am we all stood around his bed as he received a blessing. We hugged him and said our final goodbyes. We knew that once the process had begun he would fall into a deep sleep and he would not be able to communicate with us anymore. His final words as the drip began were, "I've never had trouble falling asleep." At 2:30 am on December 24th the iv drip of morphine and the Adavan was given to him. He quickly fell asleep and for the next 9 hours we kept vigil at his bedside. It is traumatic to watch a person die. The body reacts in ways that I was unprepared to watch. What was suppose to be a quick process lasted for what seemed forever. We were told that his heart was so strong it just wouldn't stop beating. As time went on, the oxygen was decreased until he was left with none. Some might think this sounds inhumane. But the oxygen was life support for him. It was the only way he could live...but shortly his body would need more than a machine could provide and he would have suffocated to death. This was his only choice that would not bring gasping for air and fear.

As his body continued to hold on, we played his favorite hymns, we prayed for him, we told him it was okay for him to go. We knew his mother who had died this past August was waiting for him as well as his father. He was excited to see his Grandpa Lee Lindsey and had regularly spoke of him. Different people who had visited him asked him to hug their loved ones. It was surreal to be a part of this process. We watched as his breathing slowed and the pulse in his neck finally stopped. We called to the nurse and she came in, put the stethoscope on this ever loving chest and said in a soft and caring tone, "He is gone." I then said, "Good job Daddy. Good job living and good job dying. You did it." He made a very brave decision and followed through with it. We then had to wait for the doctor to pronounce the same, "I am sorry. He has passed." And then we waited for the mortuary to come and take his body away.

As I left for home, my brain could not think, my legs could not hold my body. I wanted to shout to the world, "Do you know what just happened? Do you know that the greatest man in the world just died?" But I didn't. Even though I held the words in, the sobs could not be contained. I will miss my daddy. I am 45 years old and I realize I may live as long without my daddy as I lived with him. A little girl's daddy should never have to leave her.

The whole day prior to his passing, he wore this incredible goofy grin. He knew that although he was leaving his family behind, there was much work for him to do on the other side. He had faith that his testimony of eternal families was real. He knew that although we would miss each other terribly we would one day be together again.

I love you daddy...and I miss you terribly.

A Rollercoaster Month

2010-11-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

It all began on October 7th. I received a surprise phone call from my son, Elder Brandon Moore. It was a surprise since he is only suppose to call home on Mother's Day and Christmas while serving his mission. As it turns out, he had a physical problem and was letting me know he would probably returning home sooner than his December 2010 release date. The following evening, the mission president's wife called to tell me basically the same thing. I spent the weekend wondering what exactly would be the consensus as to when he would fly back to Utah. Monday afternoon the mission president called to let me know I could pick my son up the next evening at the Salt Lake airport.I flew into action.

First of all, I was sure the mission president didn't know that I had moved to Southern Utah. I had to prepare to make the trip up there, see if I could arrange for him to have his homecoming the following Sunday in our old ward, and figure out how to get Brooklyn out of school on finals week without it hurting her grades too much. Also, I did not have Brandon's room prepared for him. Oh well, some things would have to wait.

That Tuesday we headed up to Salt Lake. I don't know who was more nervous, me or his girlfriend Amber who had been waiting for him for two years. We were lucky enough to have two of our friends who have airline ties sneak up to the gate and give us a play-by-play as he walked out of the gate and began his trek to baggage claim. I must admit, as I saw him coming down the escalator, I was shreiking with joy, jumping up and down clapping and excited that I could finally hug and kiss my baby boy. It was a wonderful moment.

After leaving the airport we headed to the Stake President's office to have him released. President Dibble did the honors. It was heartbreaking watching Elder Moore remove his missionary tag...the same one I had placed on him 22 months earlier at the mtc.

We followed up that meeting with a family dinner at Chili's. It was impossible for me to keep my eyes off of him. I loved watching him interact with Amber, I loved listening to his voice. I loved just having him back in my world.

We stayed the next 6 days at Brett, Cheryl and Brynlee Bishop's home They were so kind to us. They decorated the yard with posters and balloons, left notes and candy on our pillows, and encouraged us to have an Open House after his Homecoming talk.

That Sunday he gave a wonderful homecoming talk, testifying of Jesus Christ. He taught so many things I had never thought about before. It is a marvelous experience to be taught the gospel by your children.

We returned to La Verkin. I was anxious and excited to show Brandon the new home I had purchased and remodeled. I hoped he would like it, and even though he would only be staying temporarily, that he could feel like it was home to him.

We spent the next week fighting to get his medical records faxed from Nebraska to the surgeon here. We didn't want him to have to go through the same testing he had already had done there. They finally arrived and his surgery was scheduled for October 27.

Because Brandon had a few days before the surgery he asked to borrow my car and head up to Logan to spend a few days with Amber. I was carless for about 4 days, but since I am a homebody, and the grocery store and church are within walking distance, I knew I would survive. I spent my homebound weekend studying for my BYU Humanities final...which I passed, barely :)

Brandon arrived back in time to celebrate his birthday on October 26th. He is now 21. Ginger and her kiddos and Grandma and Papa joined us for the cupcake festivities. It was low key, but right up our alley considering we didn't have much time to prepare and Brandon wasn't feeling all that great. He had lost 20 lbs. in the previous 6 weeks due to his illness, so he didn't have that much of an appetite.

The next day we headed out to Dixie Regional Medical Center for the surgery. The actual surgery only lasted 1 hour, but the before and after lasted a total of six. We returned home to begin the recovery.

For the last week Brandon has gained 7 lbs., moved around a wee bit, but mostly just camped out on the couch. He sleeps there, he watches tv there, he texts there, he plays on the computer there, he takes pictures from there. It is really quite comical although it is also quite necessary. His recovery is a 4 week recovery. He is hoping he can return to Salt Lake at the end of the month to begin working and spending more time with Amber.

It has been a whirlwind of activity, but I have treasured it. There is nothing like having your son gone for two years and then having him in your presence and all to your self 24/7 for 4 weeks. Blessings can always be found if we take the time to look for them.

September 18, 2010 - Homecoming Dance

2010-10-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn had her first date...errr...group activity. There was a group of deaf kids from Southern Utah that were set up on dates with hearing kids from around the valley. Brooklyn's date, Tanner Van Komen, is a senior and actually goes to the Tuacahn School of Performing Arts. Even though Brooklyn goes to Hurricane High School, these kids were all invited to attend the Dixie High School homecoming dance.

We had a lot of fun shopping for her dress. She made the comment before we went shopping, "I am a tomboy; I don't like to wear dresses." I informed her that she couldn't wear a basketball jersey to the dance! She actually began to enjoy looking for her girly attire and completed her outfit with a pair of shoes that had a bow on them....she thought they were "soooo cute".

Aunt Ginger was nice enough to come down and do her hair and makeup. She looked beautiful and I think she felt that way too.

The evening began by the kids (and the chaperone, her Teacher for the Deaf, Adam Billings) coming to pick her up at our home at 5:30. We took the obligatory couple pictures here and then they were off.

They went for dinner at the Sky Mountain Golf Resort. Brooklyn, who normally doesn't like "Sunday" food, said the roast beef was the best she had ever had. They had extra time for pictures and to drive a few golf balls.

They then headed over to the dance. They spent time dancing with their dates, with their friends' dates, and with each other.

She arrived home at about 11:30 pm and I, of course, was waiting up for her. I couldn't wait for her to sit down and tell me all about her evening. She said she was too tired and just wanted to get a bath and go to bed. No, no, no, no, no! I would let her do no such thing! She then spent the next half hour recounting the great time she had. Yay, first date down and first date a success!

Shhhh! I have a secret....

2010-09-17T14:25:00.000-07:00

You know how sometimes you just want to keep things to yourself until you are ready to reveal them. That is how I felt about my house. When I bought this house, a few friends and relatives came through saying, "That place is a dump!" Well, my only criteria when talking with my realtor was this: Find me the ugliest house for the best price. And he did!

One thing I know about myself is that I can see potential. I can see the diamond in the rough. I love to uncover the scum and see the true beauty that lies within. That is what I look for in a house.

This house had been abandoned for almost 2 years, it was a foreclosure, and it was a dump. There were no mice ( I hate mice!), but spiders and cockroaches...both dead and alive...had taken up residence here. There was a lot of work to be done. But I knew I wanted to be the one to love this house back to life.

Thank goodness I know a guy who can read my mind, has skills to perfection, and was willing to live here for 7 weeks (before I moved down) to get it all ready for me. He worked his magic and his touch covered every inch of this house. He took the bones and made them beautiful. I was the decorator...the one who put the jewelry on. the two of us together made this house a reality. And now it is ready to present to the world ;)

Although there are still a few things left to do...ie: a bedroom to be decluttered, a backyard to be completed, and a bathroom to be updated...for the most part it is beautiful.

To see the transformation...feel free to take a peek at my other blog: thetransformationofagirlandherhouse.blogspot.com Throughout the week I will be posting pictures.

My home is in La Verkin, Utah. Right outside of Zion's National Park and about 20 minutes north of St. George. I would love for you to come visit. Nothing makes a home like love, smiles and laughter. Come on down, up or over...and enjoy my new place. I would love to have you!

A Full Plate

2010-08-25T05:44:00.001-07:00

Something about too many things happening at once, puts me in survival mode.

On July 25, my son Justin, had his missionary farewell and going away party. After feeding and entertaining about 100 guests, the mad rush began to have him all packed for Nicaragua, and the rest of us all packed for our new home La Verkin, Utah. My goal was to drop Elder Moore off at the Missionary Training Center, and keep driving South. I did not want to return to the house I had called home for the past 17 years. I was ready for my new start.

Brooklyn and I arrived in La Verkin on the evening of Wednesday, July 28. We had a couple of days to just rest while waiting for our trailers to arrive on Saturday. How one person can have so much junk remains a mystery to me. I will forever be grateful to my boss and his wife, Mike and Heather Fronk, for driving 3 huge truckloads of important and not-so-important crap to my house down here. They blessed my life incredibly by their willingness to help me with this monumental task. To add to their generousity, when I told Mike I was moving, he asked me to work remotely from home. I couldn't be more blessed in that area of my life.

The trailers (a big one and a small one) arrived on Saturday and the unload began. Many people contributed to getting my stuff down here as well as getting it out of the trailers. I am thankful for the service they provided. I believed that when I finally got here things would settle down for me and I might be able to find the peace I have been seeking the last six years.

On Sunday, I received the phone call that my Granny, Mabel Florence Lindsay Pennington, had finally entered the next life after several months of illness. She was 95 years old. The funeral was planned for the following Saturday. We made preparations for the 25 hour drive to Tyler, Texas. My parent's expedition was loaded with luggage as well as 8 people...Papa, Grandma, me, Brooklyn, Ginger, Bailey, Laynie and Lori. We had four people who could drive. We made the drive straight through taking turns at the wheel. When people weren't driving they were sleeping.

What a beautiful weekend it was as the descendants of my Granny gathered to pay tribute to her life. All 28 of her grandchildren were there...travelling from California, Utah, Arizona, North Carolina and other places. It was the first time I had felt whole in a long time. Many of her great-grandchildren were there as well as her great-great-grandchildren. After the funeral in Tyler and the burial next to my Papa, Hugh Smith Pennington, in Longview, we travelled back to Tyler for the luncheon. It was a beautiful time. Family pictures were taken. One was taken of the cousins with all 28 of us lined up from oldest to youngest. I am the fifth oldest.

Afterwards, we went back to the hotel where we all were staying. We had fun getting reaquainted, swimming and sharing stories. The men cousins decided we should all meet out at my cousin Byron's barn for a party that night. So off we went to another amazing event. My aunts and uncles barbequed sausages, made homemade peach ice cream, and just loved us. There was so much happiness and love that was felt this weekend. I cannot imagine Granny could have been any happier.

My granny left a wonderful legacy. She was honored in the newspaper the following day as a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints who was instrumental to helping the church grow in East Texas. I am proud to be called her grandaughter.

So many wonderful things. But even wonderful things can be stressful. I have a trick to survive mortality. Tunnel vision. I only take one step at a time, looking to the next thing to be accomplished. If I look anywhere else, I become so overwhelmed and feel as if I will crush under all the responsibilities. Life is hard, but life is also meant to be lived. I for one am living life...hook, line and sinker...even though it is not my choice !

A Very BIG Day....

2010-07-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

July 28...was a very big day. Elder Justin Lee Moore entered the Missionary Training Center to begin his two year service in the Nicaragua Managua North Mission. Wow! That pretty much sums it up.

I had a blessing on Tuesday. I needed one. Mixed in with this was that after I dropped him off I would be moving to our new home in La Verkin, Utah. I wished I could have spent more time focusing on him. There were so many distractions, packing up, cleaning, etc. I am so grateful for the friends who came to help me. I honestly couldn't have done it without them. I did leave a few loose ends, and I feel bad about that. But I just needed to move forward.

Justin said he wasn't scared or nervous, but simply excited as he would finally get to do what he had been preparing for for the last 19 years. Having two full-time missionaries creates some bewildering feelings. I am okay though because some of my very best friends have also had two missionaries out at once. There is one thing you can count on in this life: Whatever situations come your way, someone else has already been there.

Back when Brandon left on his mission, the family entered the mtc, watched a movie together, sang and prayed. Then the missionary went out one door, while the family went out another door. But my favorite part about the old way was that upon entering the mtc, I was able to put Brandon's missionary tag on him. Now, you just drop your missionary at the curb, give a quick hug, and drive away. No pinning on of the missionary tag. For some reason, this part bothered me, and I mentioned it to Brandon.

On July 19, I had my birthday. I received a gift from Elder Brandon Moore. Inside the padded envelope, was that very same missionary tag I had pinned on him almost twenty months before. It said, "Elder Moore" and underneath had the name of the church in Spanish. It was exactly the same as the tag Elder Justin Moore would be receiving. Brandon said I could put it on Justin, take some pictures, but then he asked me to send it back to him, because it was his most special tag. What a thoughtful and meaningful thing for him to think of. That made the day even better.

After packing til 1 am, picking up a few forgotten things the next morning, making sure I was on all Justin's bank accounts, etc. we were off. We ate lunch at Goodwood and then drove to the Provo Temple. We took some last minute pictures, gave some lengthy hugs, said our I Love Yous....and then hopped back in the car to follow the protocol the church set up to drop off the missionaries.

We entered the Missionary Training Center driveway and were waved on to a "number on a stick". All along the drive there were missionaries waving and smiling on the curb with tags on that said, "Host." I decided maybe Disneyland isn't the happiest place on earth after all. We stopped at our post, five elders greeted us, we gave the last hug, took a picture, and then sent Elder Moore off with another elder and his luggage following closely behind. Only three questions were asked of him: Do you have any car keys? Do you have a cell phone? Do you have your immunization record?

As we drove away, I was pretty numb. Two of my boys are gone. It is now just me and Brooklyn. Two years seems like forever from the beginning, but at the end seems only like a blink of an eye. I can't wait for Dec. 10 of this year to get one of my sons back...and July 28 of 2012 to get the another one. But for now I take comfort that their testimonies are being strengthened and that they are in the service of our Lord. May God bless all of us.

Mother's Day

2010-05-26T19:50:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I love Mother's Day. I have no expectations and I am never disappointed. I am always happy to wake up just knowing that I was blessed to be a mother.

The day started perfectly as Brooklyn, Kelli - our wonderful interpreter, Brooklyn's dad Marshall and I walked over to Spence and Sandy Lloyd's home. They are long time friends. Spence, on this morning, is known as Patriarch Lloyd. Brooklyn received her patriarchal blessing. It was beautiful and the best way to begin the day.

We then attended church. After church, Jaime received the office of Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood. I have enjoyed watching him learn and grow in the gospel. This was a big step for him and one that he did not want to take until he felt prepared to accept the responsibilites of this priesthood.

We returned home to a wonderful meal and awaited the phone call from Elder Brandon Moore. His girlfriend Amber was here. When the phone rang we all jumped. I grabbed the phone and handed it to Amber to answer. I gave her first dibbs at talking to "her missionary." After her time was up, I spent three hours listening, laughing, counseling, and sharing. It was a delight to hear Elder Moore's voice. The next time I talk to him will be face to face! The time is flying by.

As I fell into bed, I couldn't help but smile...for I am truly blessed this day. I will forever be grateful for my 3 beautiful children who are always so good to me.

The White Envelope - April 28, 2010

2010-05-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

You know how it goes when you are waiting for your son's mission call...you keep checking and checking and checking the mailbox...only to see this:

The mail usually is here by 3:00...but it is 5:00 and still no sign of the mailman. About 5:45, I hear it...the soft hum of the little white truck. It is here !!!!

Justin didn't get home from work until 9:00 p.m., so we invited all his friends to come at 9:30. It was a packed house! The suspense was thick as people were guessing where he would go. As for me, I don't like to play that game....it is what it is :) Justin only had one desire...he wanted to go someplace really, really poor. He began to read:

Dear Elder Moore:

You are hereby called to serve as a missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You are assigned to labor in the Nicaragua Managua North Mission. It is anticipated that you will serve for a period of 24 months.

You should report to the Provo Missionary Training Center on Wednesday, July 28, 2010. You will prepare to preach the gospel in the Spanish Language.

The crowd roared. And the boy has looked like this ever since!

Congratulations Elder Moore! You will make a great missionary :)

The Dreaded Organ

2010-04-18T17:46:00.002-07:00

So about six months ago I was called into the Bishop's office. I was released from my calling as Laurel advisor and asked to be the Ward Organist. Interesting enough, I don't play the organ. The Bishop explained that the new organ we had was actually an automatic organ. He said his 3 year old could do it. Well, if a 3 year old can do it, than most certainly I can! Of course, he said with a smile, "You will actually be more of an organ operator." So I accepted, but I was still hesitant.

I had a quick organ lesson by the stake organist...who by the way showed me the organ shoes I could purchase if I really got into it! I most assuredly told him that I was just an "organ operator" and wouldn't be purchasing the shoes. Being an organ operator involves dialing up the hymn on the computer and pushing a series of buttons to start the intro and to start each verse.

The first Sacrament meeting I played, there was a glitch. The organ stopped playing on the second verse. It started again on the 3rd and then stopped again on the fourth verse. Because I do play the piano, I quickly started playing, but since I don't play the organ, the pedals were not involved and it sounded like a very half ditch effort at best.

A few weeks went by where everything went well, but you can never trust an organ too long. Once again, it betrayed me. The hymns are dialed up by a computer. When I went to dial up the hymn, it was all in Spanish. I quickly shut the organ down, while the congregation...and me...waited for it to reboot. When it finally did, it began playing "Joy to the World"....in February no less. The organ was redialed and began playing the hymn. It played the introduction and then continued on to the verse....only it wasn't the verse...it was the introduction again. AAAAGGGGHHHH! The substitute chorister stopped the singing and said, "Let's start over." And so we did.

Well, along comes April. Things seem to be going well. Until today. Every song the organ belted out was off tempo. My poor sister Ginger is the chorister. She is just waving her arm to the music. Three quarter notes are held for one count...one count notes are held for three counts. It was a disaster.

The one thing I can say is that I make sure that everyone knows I am not an organist and I am not the one screwing up. It is that blasted organ. During the prelude, I will start the organ and then go get a drink of water. Or during the hymn I will itch my nose or turn the pages of the hymn book to the next hymn. Anything so the congregation knows I am not responsible!

Sometimes people say they move to get out of callings. I am not moving to get out of this calling...but it is definitely one of the benefits of moving :) I can say that I don't get flustered when this happens because the last five years of my life have made me no stranger to embarrassment. I am now so use to embarrassment that I just take it all in stride. It is just one more story I will have to tell in the coming years. But I will say, with my whole heart, that I will celebrate next week when I play that *#%@ organ for the very last time. Sorry people in the ward...the entertainment will be over!!!!

Young Women's General Broadcast

2010-04-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

We were so happy to receive tickets to go downtown to the Conference Center for the Young Women's General Broadcast. It is such a wonderful feeling to be among so many great young women. It was wonderful to listen to our leaders speak to us. They really care about our happiness and want us to know how loved we are.

Brooklyn and I sat in the section of the conference center designated for the Deaf. They have two televisions there - one has an interpreter on it and the other has captions. It was fun to sit by those girl and I loved how they sign the hymns because many of them do not use voice at all.

It was also so nice for me to be able to share this evening with Brooklyn. Usually we are invited to the stake center to watch the conference via satellite transmission, but without captions Brooklyn doesn't know what is being said. Once we had an interpreter come to sign for us, but they turned the lights down so everyone could see the screen and Brooklyn couldn't see the interpreter...so usually we just watch it on tape delay on the television that night. I have always felt Brooklyn missed out on the spirit that is there when all the Young Women are joined together. Going to the conference center gave us the best of both worlds. We felt the spirit of being with the other girls and she was able to "hear" the words which were being spoken.

We also loved sharing this evening with Ginger and Bailey. They had never been before so it was wonderful and exciting for all of us.

March Madness!

2010-04-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

When most people hear the words "March Madness" they think of college basketball. But for our family it was just a March filled with many big things.

As most know, we are a basketball family and the kids both had stellar years with their teams. Brooklyn attends Summit Academy Jr. High. Their team took first place in the charter school basketball tournament this year. They had amazing coaches and learned so many wonderful skills.

In Church Ball, Justin's team also took first in Regionals. Thanks to Matt Lym for doing a great coaching job. He always looked so calm, like he was sitting on the front row of an NBA game just taking it all in. The boys showed great teamwork and they were a joy to watch.

One of the other really great things that happened for our family is that Justin was ordained to be an Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood. His papa ordained him. It was wonderful to have so many men that have influenced his life for good stand and put their hands on his head and bestow upon him this great gift.

The following week Brooklyn was scheduled to have her second cochlear implant surgically put in. Because Justin had been ordained to be an Elder he was able to give her a blessing before her surgery. This was a beautiful bonding experience and I think something they will both treasure in the coming years.

Brooklyn had her cochlear implant surgery at LDS Hospital on March 29, 2010. There is a 5 week healing period, and then she will be able to have the external piece mapped and attached. This implant is newer and has some wonderful features. She will be able to hook her ipod directly into it and it has a telecoil which may allow her to hear on the phone. We are excited to see if this brings new benefits to her. It is a long process, so even though some things will show immediately, most we won't know how well they are working for many months.

Many exciting things are happening in our family right now. I think 2010 will turn out to be quite an adventurous and great year! Stay tuned :)

California Lovin'

2010-04-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

February was great! I was able to take my two kiddos to California. We did a road trip and it was a blast. We stayed in an amazing resort in Carlsbad overlooking the ocean. We did all the typical things:

The Beach

I love the ocean. I love the sound, the smell, the feel. I love that it is so expansive and that you feel like you can see forever.

Disneyland

The kids and I did our volunteer time so we each got a credit for going to Disneyland. We volunteered for 2 hours each at the Living Planet Aquarium. Justin got in free and Brooklyn and I put our $72.00 towards an annual pass. The park was near empty and we did everything we wanted to do at Disneyland and California Adventure in 7 hours. It was great!

Knotts Berry Farm

Our friend Lupe took us to Knotts Berry Farm. This park was also near empty. It was so relaxing. The kids did some really scary rollercoasters. I did a couple of the not-so-scary ones. It was a great day topped off by dinner at TGIFs.

The San Diego Temple

Justin, Brooklyn and I went to the temple to do baptisms for the dead. We started out by eating lunch in the cafeteria there. We then went to the baptistry and a member of the Temple Presidency came in and talked to us. We were the only ones here too. The kids then did the baptisms for their grandparents, great grandparents and great great grandparents. It was wonderful. This side of the family all came from Nebraska. I know because Brandon is serving his mission there, many doors were opened so that people I had been looking for the past 16 years were easily found. There was a wonderful feeling there and it was special for each of us to do these family names.

And a whole lot of relaxing.

California is our most favorite place to vacation. After the trip was over I asked the kids, "If you could change one thing, what would you do different?" They both said, "Nothing!" I felt the same way - it was perfect.

My Crowning Achievement

2010-03-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

Today is March 2 and marks a very important day to a mother. Nineteen years ago today I gave birth to Justin. There has been no greater blessing in my life than to be a mother. I love each of my children and celebrate their uniqueness from each other. They have such wonderful strengths and I love to watch as they develop and grow in their very individual ways. Justin has always had an enormous heart. He is tender, kind, and thoughtful. He is loyal to his friends. He interacts so wonderfully with children. He is respected by those he works for. He is creative, deep thinking, and actually gets this crazy world we live in. He is a blessing in my life.

It is funny how we never really forget the births of our children. They are traumatic, drawn out, and life changing. I was in labor with Justin for 30 hours. By the time he was born he looked like he had been "put through the wringer." He arrived very bloody and very bruised. I was so excited to finally have him to hold in my arms and to love forever.

So on this day, March 2, 2010, I say a big Thank You to Justin. You are an amazing son. I look forward to watching you continue throughout your life, learning and growing. You have so many opportunities ahead, and I know you will grab them and make the most of each moment. I love you baby boy!

Love, Your Mama

The Chaos of Christmas 2009

2009-12-30T14:23:00.001-08:00

This was truly a wonderful Christmas. I loved having Ginger's kids living here so we could have all the excitement that comes from little children. A tradition we have is all the kids sit on the stairs and wait to come down together. Imagine our surprise when Laynie came running in, hands in the air, and yelled, "PRESENTS!!!" After hurrying her back to the stairs, she ran into her room deflated and hid under the bed. It then took 10 minutes to get her back out.

I had a few favorite parts of Christmas. I loved the chaos. Usually we open gifts one at a time, watching each other, and then put our wrapping paper in a trash bag. This time it was a free for all and I loved seeing the kids sitting in piles of garbage. It was crazy fun.

Justin only asked for luggage and his mission suits. This is by no means "fun". I wanted to get him something he could also enjoy. A couple of weeks before Christmas he mentioned he wanted a Nerf gun. After grilling his friend, I bought the automatic one he wanted and promptly wrapped it. A couple of days later he sent me a text showing a different gun he wanted. I went to Walmart and bought that one. I left it in the trunk to wrap Christmas Eve. Then Christmas Eve day, it was brought to my attention that it was a different one. Ugh!!!! So that one got wrapped too. Two wrapped Nerf guns, and one left in the trunk. I fully planned on him deciding which one he wanted and returning the others to the store. He was intent on keeping the two wrapped ones, saying, "You can't take back my Christmas gifts." I asked him to hold still so I could take a picture...he replied, "I can't hold still, I am just so happy!" That made my day.

I loved how Brooklyn and Bailey both asked for "fake" glasses. They think they look very smart in them. I think they look like twins! Brooklyn also got an ipod with a player. With her being deaf I thought the only way she would be able to hear the music is with the player, but she found she would wrap the earphones around her ear and if they hung just right, she could hear the music. Smarty pants!

The highlight of the day was of course speaking to Brandon. It was wonderful to hear the joy he is having on his mission. They were snowed in for 4 days with another set of missionaries. They were so excited to open their gifts, that at 2:30 am the four missionaries began their Christmas festivities. Both Amber and I gave Brandon a set of remote control cars. So four missionaries had four remote control cars to play with. Also Amber sent Brandon two nerf guns, as did one of the other elder's mom...so four missionaries had four nerf guns to play with. Brandon wondered what the neighbors thought as they were jumping over couches and hiding in closets at 2 am. They couldn't leave for any dinner appointments, so their Christmas dinner consisted of cereal and Ritz crackers with spray cheese. He didn't seem to mind. Isn't this how Christmas is suppose to be in the mission? And the next night he did have two baptisms...That is what a White Christmas really is!

As for me, Ginger and I decided to do each other's stockings. It was a wonderful idea. It was nice to give and receive with someone you know so well. I love you sista!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas...and now on to the New Year!

Hair We Go Again....

2009-11-12T14:46:00.000-08:00

So, Justin's hair is always a problem! He hasn't had it cut for umpteen months and was looking so scraggly. He is such a cute boy, but you would never know it under all that hair. Being a single mom requires one to pick their battles very carefully. There is no father around to discuss things with, so I am left to my own most of the time. Enter Kirk Sutton! Yay! Some men in my neighborhood/ward step up to the plate in a big way to help me raise my children. I am so appreciative of them. Kirk Sutton has had a mustache for the last 25 years. Not even his wife Ranae has seen him without his mustache. In the past, he has been offered $250.00 to shave it off. He has never done it. Well, Justin and Kirk made a deal...Justin gets a haircut and Kirk shaves his mustache. I love heroes like Kirk Sutton! Now I can see my little boy's face. It was a party here with about 15 kids turning out to watch the event. Kudos to my sister Ginger, who cut his hair, and is the Aunt every mom needs for their son. She has a way of telling him like it is with a whole lot of love and humor. Thanks Kirk and Justin for your bravery at getting rid of some unnecessary hair (I still wish Justin's "Jedi strand/tail" was gone, but hey you can't have it all). You both look great!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T21:07:00.000-07:00

I love to dress up for Halloween. One thing I know from looking at this picture, however, is I think I will keep my long, blonde hair. For some reason this short, dark hair makes my face look like a big, round pumpkin! I hope everyone had a wonderful evening...the weather here in Sandy, Utah was perfect for a night of trick-or-treating :)

Brooklyn is into grossness. This year she was a very dead Anna Lucia from Lost. She loved putting blood and stitches on her face. Even the pumpkin she carved was gross!

I hope everyone's Halloween was as fun and as scary as ours!

My Dream Cottage

2009-10-18T12:24:00.000-07:00

If I were allowed to have any home I wanted...I would definitely choose this darling little cottage...

...with this dreamy little porch.

No room for clutter...only room for peace and relaxation.

The Purple Poison

2009-10-16T12:16:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you grabbed your purple mascara remover

and then realized it was actually the nail polish remover

....but only after you had put it all over your eye. Not good!

The Pioneer Trek

2009-07-12T06:12:00.000-07:00

June 19, 2009 was a day not to be forgotten. I have always wanted to go on a Pioneer Trek. A few years ago I was able to go to Martin's Cove as part of a planning committee. It was an amazing experience to walk where so many had sacrificed their very lives in pursuit of a place where they could worship freely.

This year our stake did a one day trek at This Is The Place Park. It was well organized, and even though it was only a day...there were parts of it that were very difficult. We have had a lot of rain here in Utah. The trail had deep trenches from the rainwater running down the mountain which made pulling the handcarts quite hard at times. It was also beautiful and green and the air smelled so good.

The one thing that I was excited about this year is that I was able to go on this trek with Justin and Brooklyn. I had always wanted to share an experience like this with my children.

Most know that one of the most powerful parts of a pioneer trek is the Women's Pull. This is a time when the men are called away because of death, a mission, or to serve in the Mormon Battalion. The women are left behind to continue the journey with their handcarts. We, as women leaders and Young Women, were called together at the bottom of a very huge mountain. We were told that it was typical for women to be on their own at different times during the journey. It was explained that although men have physical strength, women have emotional strength...the power to persevere. We were told, "You can do this." The men leaders and Young Men were taken up the mountain and told to line the trail. They were not to speak to us or help us in any way. They were to stand in reverence as we passed.

I had been looking forward to the Women's Pull just so I could know the intensity of it...but I found out quickly that I was not prepared for the emotions I would feel. Families were combined and I was blessed to be on the same handcart as Brooklyn. Brooklyn was in the front pulling and I was in the back pushing. We began our trek up the trail and the bottom of the hill seemed fairly easy. But as we continued, and I looked up to the top, to our destination, I was not sure I could make it. It consistently became harder and harder. I continued to look at the top...at the goal. I began to breathe heavily with each step, my mind began to say, "You will never make it." I wanted to cry. Next to me was a very strong young woman who was pushing with all her might...but she was not looking up to the top of the mountain...she was looking down at the ground. I thought I would try that. As I looked at my feet, putting one foot in front of the other, I became not so overwhelmed. Before, looking at my destination, I wanted to give up. But as I just took one step at a time, looking at only my feet, progress came faster and soon we were there. What an analogy this was for me. Life has been so consuming for me in so many hard ways...and that is actually how I handle my real life. Sometimes I am too overwhelmed to look very far down the road, but as I put one foot in front of the other, facing one day at a time...I find I make good progress and am not so overwhelmed. I find myself believing, "I can do this."

As I arrived at the top of the hill, I was panting. My throat was sore from breathing so heavily. I collapsed on the dirt with the other women and girls. I recognized that some of the girls had fallen away from their handcarts...they had become injured or could just not do one more step. This was also a lesson for me. As I have struggled through my divorce and being a single mom, I have felt the responsibility that comes from being the leader of my children. I recognize, that if I fall away, there is a chance my handcart could become loose and domino down everyone behind me. I have to be strong and present in every way to lead and guide my children. I cannot turn loose; I cannot give up. It is a lot of responsibility and pressure to guide a family on one's own.

This Pioneer Trek taught me many great life lessons, which I hope I never forget. It is amazing that so many pioneers experienced so many hardships and spent so much time to arrive in the valley that I now call my home. I am so blessed to live in the land of the prophets and to have reminders all around me of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The pioneers were amazing, and I am grateful and humbled that I had a very small glimpse into their lives.

The Wedding Dress

2009-07-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

For Young Women's we had a Wedding Dress Fashion Show. I thought it would be great if my daughter wore my wedding dress. The day before the fashion show, I got the dress out of the big gold sealed box and had her try it on. Imagine my surprise when it fit her perfectly. I thought she looked amazing!

When I was married I weighed the same as her, but I was about 3 inches taller. I doubt she will want to wear my dress when she gets married - #1 it's not in style anymore and #2 it is probably cursed ;) But for one night, I couldn't take my eyes off of Brooklyn...she looked beautiful.

On a side note...when you get divorced, you don't know what to do with your wedding dress...or the gigantic bridal portrait framed in ornate gold. The portrait has been hiding under my bed. On April Fool's Day, I told my sister that some mice had taken up residence under my bed and used my bridal portrait for nesting material. She thought that was great, because now I didn't have to try and figure out what to do with it anymore. Of course, it was just a joke. I will admit, however, that having both my dress and the bridal portrait, made for a very enjoyable day for me and Brooklyn. I still wish I had the fairy tale life I dreamed of on that day long ago...but seeing Brooklyn in my wedding dress, was a blessing I will not soon forget.

I'M BACK!!!! The Living Planet Aquarium

2009-07-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

Now that my digital camera is semi-working I have so much to share. Granted it may all be in a random order, but hey...at least I am documenting my crazy life...NOT!

Today's post is about the Living Planet Aquarium right here in Sandy, Utah. The annual pass is only $16.00 and I think it is so worth it. Right now they are trying to get penguins there. Anyway, I never get tired of looking at the jellyfish...or the octupus. Sometimes he is asleep - boring, but when he is awake he is so entertaining.

Also, my best friend for 20 years, Cindy, who lives in Wyoming has a son, Brian, who works there. It was great to see him. He put on a great show and we got to touch a snake and a humongous cockroach (yuck!).

There are stingrays you can touch, sharks to look at, and so many other interesting animals. You never know what you will find in the aquariums!

So I guess you can call this a plug for a cool afternoon indoors, enjoying some very fun creatures.

Elder Brandon Moore's Blog

2008-12-04T06:15:00.000-08:00

This past month has been very crazy and I hope to share the wonderful things that have been happening with all of you. But for now, I only have time to share Brandon's blog I set up to keep everyone posted on my handsome missionary.

http://elderbrandonmoore.blogspot.com/

I Always wanted To Be Cinderella and I AM I AM!

2008-11-10T10:00:00.000-08:00

You Are Cinderella!

Dignified and hard working. With a gentle and soft-spoken manner you have something many people don't. Patience. Even through the moments of heartbreak you're still able to hold onto all of your hopes and dreams. Bide your time; your dream will come true.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Justin and His $$$$$

2008-10-27T22:16:00.000-07:00

Justin likes girls...but he LOVES his jeep (and you can see from his face he hates pictures). He can often be found lifting it, 4 wheeling it, cleaning it, parking it straight up on a snow bank/dirt bank/construction something or other, or adding parts to it that I don't even know the name of or what they do. He went to Moab earlier this year to take it on some "sweet" trails. This rattling on is all to prove a point. He thinks spending money on his jeep is great, it will always be around, it always looks "hot", and he can make it into exactly what he wants. On the other hand, girls are different. He would rather spend his money on something he knows will last - and a girl is just not it. However, I am really good at making deals with Justin to manipulate him into doing what I want him to do. As I said, "Money talks with him!" (We know this from past haircut blog, right?). I told him it is not fair for him to continue depriving all those cute high school girls from going on a date with him. I told him in no uncertain terms he had to attend at least two boy-ask-girl school dances this year - and that I would help pay for them. Lucky for one cute girl, he listened. He took a cutie to Homecoming and I think they both looked fabulous. The day of the dance he told me he wanted to wear white suspenders and a white tie...hmmmm where can I get that?...of course at the distribution center. Very white and very cheap! They had a wonderful time and I hope he will recognize girls are not a waste of money...they are the essence of life!

Sleeping Babies...zzzzz....

2008-10-27T22:07:00.000-07:00

When my children were little I loved to watch them sleep. I loved to rock them, stare at them, and just know they were safe at home. Now that they are teenagers...nothing has changed. When Brooklyn turned 13 in June you would have thought the world was ending. She did not want to be a teenager. She said, "Teenagers sleep too much and they are rude to their parents." After informing her these are both choices, she was determined to not be either. Well, NOT! She does both...I guess it comes with the teens! Anyway, this is how I found my three tykes on a Sunday afternoon...actually for Brooklyn it was a Sunday morning...at 11 am...yes, sleeping too much! You mothers of young children will one day understand how rare it is to have all teenagers home at the same time and the comfort that comes from knowing they are all safe!

I Can't Believe How Beautiful It Is!

2008-10-27T21:28:00.001-07:00

Many of you know I have this amazing friend Jaime. He can make all my wildest dreams come true. So when I asked him to turn this icky attic space into a beautiful office for me...he did! Feast your eys on my new office/scrapbook room/sanctuary. I still have decorating to do so it is not quite finished, but I bet you will agree that I am one lucky girl. This is right off my bedroom and is a dream come true.

Before:

And after:

I also put this saying on the wall, because who can help but be happy in this beautiful new hideaway.

Jaime does hire out and can do anything...so if you need a great job done to perfection...let me introduce you to him. I promise you will be happy :)

Never Tell a Guy He Doesn't Know How To Dress...

2008-10-06T15:24:00.001-07:00

...especially if it is Brandon. Brandon has been dating Amber for almost two years. They are really cute together and find ways to make each other laugh. Amber told Brandon that he could use some improvement on his "style". Brandon, not being one to take things lightly, showed up at her house to pick her up for a date. Needless to say, she was speechless. I don't think she will ever say anything about the way he dresses again!

You Gotta Love Yard Sales!

2008-09-28T19:59:00.001-07:00

Brooklyn and I love a good yard sale. My motto has always been, "One person's junk is another person's junk!" I can't get over all the unusual stuff you can find. While digging through a pile of clothes yesterday we found these cute shoes. Brooklyn has never had high heels so why not start off with the highest ones we could find. She decided to wear them to church today. While walking to the car Mike Stark yelled out how good the shoes looked. I replied that it is only a matter of time before she falls and breaks her ankle. Mike said, "Well at least she will look good doing it!" So off we went to church. Upon exiting our car to enter the church, Brooklyn stepped onto the curb and immediately fell down. She hadn't been in the shoes even 10 minutes! She jumped up saying, "I'm okay, I'm okay." We couldn't quit laughing because we know a girl with her first high heels is destined to face plant into the pavement sometime...but she did look good doing it! As I always tell her "It hurts to be beautiful."

Did Laura just call me a horrible blogger?

2008-09-19T21:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, I will play your game! I love to learn all the crazy things about people because it just goes to show, none of us are very skilled at this thing called life...

Things you didn't want to know about me...

Rules Once Tagged:
1) Link to the person who tagged you.
2) Post the rules on your blog (copy and paste 1-6).
3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below).
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post.
5) Let them know they are tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6) Let the tagger (who tagged you) know when you post your tag.

1. First and foremost, I cannot live without my nightly bath (and sometimes morning one too). I do not do this just to be clean...although that is motivation...but it is truly the only way I can stay sane. I let my troubles wash down the drain. I always read in the bath which is why I am one of the more intelligent blondes. I do shave every other day...my legs and chin (oops! did I just say that?) Babies tend to make hair grow in really odd places. I think this is why I have such a hard time at Girl's Camp - no bathtub, therefore, no sanity.

2. Like Mary Ann, I hate that time of the month. I hate it so much I began to fake (well it felt true) that my periods were debillitating, even going so far as to have a uterine ultrasound in the hopes they would find something wrong and take the darn thing out or at least strip it. I think this monthly thing should come with a light switch...done having babies - shut the darn thing off!

3. I am the texting queen of old women. I can send pictures and sounds, I have different people who have different ringtones, and I would totally fall apart if I lost my cell phone. It is my connection to my network. My favorite ring tone is for my cute Laurels...it is "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" - and we do!

4. Mrs. Steve Young...that is who I intended to be. I had many times at BYU where we found ourselves together. If you ever want to know the stories, ask me. I do have picture proof of him with his arm around me and both of us smiling rather widely. The only reason it didn't work out was because his mom was also named Sherry and it just isn't right to share the same name with your mother-in-law. I always remind myself that that is the ONLY reason it didn't work out for us!

5. I love anything and everything that lights up the night sky. I love fireworks, carnival rides at night, Las Vegas at night, fireflies, the Milky Way, a full moon, etc. Even those dumb glow necklaces the kids wear make me happy. The only sad thing is I have never seen a shooting star...I am much to impatient to lay there looking at the sky long enough waiting to make my wish.

6. There is nothing I would rather do than laugh! I love to laugh til I cry...I love to remember times I laughed til I cried. Both Steve Lee and Mike Stark have told me of times they were out in restaurants and knew I was there because of my laugh. Sometimes I get in trouble because I laugh when people are talking about serious things and they think I am taking them lightly. Truth be told, the serious things are sometimes exactly the times we need to laugh. After the trials I have had in my life, you can't help but laugh. I really get a kick out of life and just observing how ridiculous it usually is. So if you see me laughing, just know I am doing what I enjoy most.

Here is my latest laughing moment. When my sister Ginger came down this week she cut Brooklyn's hair. My sister is a beautician (or whatever they call them now). When I asked Brooklyn what she wanted her hair cut like she said, "Get on the computer and I will show you." We sat down at the computer and she said, "Now type in Billy Ray Cyrus." What the heck? So if you want to see the Billy Ray on a girl, take a gander at Brooklyn this Sunday!

I now tag my cute and hilarious sister Ginger, Mary Ann and Jana. Enjoy spilling your guts!

Who likes previews?

2008-09-12T05:57:00.000-07:00

I am not talking about movie previews. I am talking about a preview of Justin's new and improved hair! As kids get older you really do have to pick your battles. This was one battle I have been unwilling to fight. Justin loved his long hair saying it gave him confidence. I worried because many thought he was a "punk skater dude" or a "rebel". This was the general feeling many people expressed when they looked at him. Anyway, after not being able to see his eyes for months I finally cut him a deal. On Wednesday afternoon I said, "If you will get your hair cut I will give you $100 dollars." In his case money has always talked. He left right then for the barber shop. He of course pleaded with me to just let him shave his head, but I didn't want to go from one attention getter to another. I told him he had to have a "missionary haircut" to get the money. Well, it looks more like a military haircut, but I will take it. (As a side note: I would have spent much more than a hundred dollars if he would have been getting haircuts the last 18 months so it was really no loss to me...but a gain to everyone as we can now see his cute face)! Justin you can still be confident because you are a great kid - and good looking too!

I Only Run If Someone Is Chasing Me!

2008-09-08T21:35:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a really great day. It started out with traveling to Park City to see Brandon run his first marathon (who are these people that get a kick out of running 26 miles?). Brandon was a cross country runner in high school and lately has been running longer distances. I asked him the day before the race what was the longest distance he had run. He said he had run 19 miles then added "after 19 what is another 7." Whatever! Anyway, I arrived at the finish line about an hour before the runners would be coming into the gate. I saw them coming over the top of the mountain. The first thing I thought was, "If they are coming down the mountain then at some point they had to run up the mountain." The race went from Deer Valley to The Canyons Ski Resort. There were over 300 entrants and Brandon finished 24th overall and first in his age group with a time of 3 hours and 50 minutes. Go Brandon!!!! No running for me and Brooklyn though...we took the gondola up and enjoyed the view. And as far as Brandon's eyes being closed...I would be sleeping too - yes even standing up - if I had just run 26 miles!

I HOPE THEY CALL ME ON A MISSION....

2008-08-28T20:30:00.000-07:00

Brandon has been singing that song since he was my very little boy...and now he is heading off for two years. It was exciting tonight as he opened his mission call and found out he would be serving in the Omaha, Nebraska Spanish speaking Mission. He leaves on December 3. There are two incredible things about this mission call. Two weeks before the call came Brandon had a dream that he would be serving in the Omaha, Nebraska mission. He may have been living close to the spirit to have that dream. I think for him it was a confirmation that he will be serving in the place the Lord wants him to serve. The other incredible thing is that Brandon's paternal grandfather and great-grandparents were born in Omaha. For 15 years I have been searching this family history line and have come to a dead end. This may someway, somehow open the door for this work to progress. I am proud of Brandon and am so excited for him to begin this new journey in his life. This was not only his dream...but his mom's dream as well! Congratulations Elder Moore!

It Was The Best Of Times - It Was The Worst of Times !

2008-08-22T20:32:00.001-07:00

The best of times is definitely going to see my niece Aubrey marry Kenny in the Rexburg, Idaho temple. She was beautiful and they looked so happy. After the wedding we headed up to LoLo, Montana for the amazing outdoor reception. There was great food, dancing, the bride and groom running through sparklers, and finally the event ended with them riding off on a Harley. It was a quick trip but the company was fantastic, the scenery breathtaking, and the four days away much needed.

And now on to the worst of times, which is the real reason I haven't blogged for the last month... GIRL'S CAMP!!!!! For anyone who knows me even remotely, they know that dirt, bugs, campfire smoke, tents, no bathtub, and flashlighting it to go to the bathroom are just a few of the reasons Girl's Camp is not my thing. I asked one of the young women, "Do you like Girl's Camp?" She sweetly answered, "I like you." And that is exactly how I feel. I don't like girl's camp, but I love the girls...and so I go. The girls are so cute. They always have french braids, bandanas, and funky clothes and it is just plain fun to be with them. Congratulations to Cheryl for making the best of a "bad" situation! Cheryl and I are great friends...neither one of us can sing worth a lick, we both have a hard time camping, and we know with just a look what the other one is thinking....at least if I have to camp it is with you friend!
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Ask and the Universe Responds!

2008-07-19T15:50:00.001-07:00

This life is amazing. If any of you have watched "The Secret" you know that you must ask and believe - and then you receive. Thanks to Justin - my dream of riding on a motorcycle for my birthday came true. And high five to Liz for letting her husband fulfill an old broad's wish. It was fun and made me want to have one of my own! In the beginning I must admit I was hanging on tight (sorry Liz), but it didn't take long to realize all I had to do was sit back and enjoy the ride. This day has been perfect. A big thanks to all my family and friends who made it so...I am a truly blessed girl. Loves!

For my birthday...drum roll please!....

2008-07-17T22:10:00.000-07:00

I don't know if many of you realize the person I was before my last crisis ( 4 years leading up to the divorce) compared to the person I am now. For those of you who didn't know me then (ie: Kriss) or those of you who have forgotten...I would like to remind you.

First off, I would never be caught dead...or alive...for that matter holding a snake. But I did hold this one. No that is not me, that is said friend asking me if I was too scared to hold the snake. After that I took it, even putting it close to my face to show I am a very brave chick these days. Don't ask me about the fox I saw right after that...you would have seen me hightailing it very quickly the other direction! This was at Victor's Pond by the way for anyone who wants to encounter wildlife up close and a little too personal.

Not much scares me anymore because I recognize I have control over very little in this world. Therefore, instead of living in fear, or worrying what "might" happen, I just live life. It is much easier that way I have found.

Saturday is my birthday. What I would really like to do is go for a motorcycle ride to celebrate this new year of being 43. No, I didn't say dirt bike ride for all you big boys in my neighborhood who love to roar your blue bikes up and down Forest Ridge Rd. So, if you have any ideas of how I can get my wish let me know. If I don't ride on Saturday, there is still 364 more days to work this one out.

Anyway, I just thought I would share my birthday wish with all of you...I wonder how I'd look in a leather vest...not!

Here's A Shout Out!

2008-07-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here's to all you women who need handyman services or home improvements. I have a friend who did almost all the work on our house. He built the new additon, built a deck, painted, tiled, built custom closet organizers, put on a roof, etc. I have convinced him to go out on his own, so now it is up to me to keep his calendar filled. So, if you or anyone you know needs some work done, please call me. Right now he is working on remodeling the Stringham's bathroom (hope that wasn't a secret Laura)! Feel free to come by and check out his work. He is honest, a hard worker, clean, respectful and affordable.

We were tagged and I accept the challenge hesitantly...

2008-07-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn was tagged to answer questions...scary for me! Some names have been eliminated to protect the innocent...once again that would be me...

1. What is something mom always says to you? I love you
2. What makes mom happy? Relax in a hot bath
3. What makes mom sad? Divorce
4. How does mom make you laugh? Gives me a smooch
5. What was mom like as a child? You looked like me
6. How old is your mom? 43 (on Saturday that will be a true statement)
7. How tall is your mom? 4 feet 7 inches (she wanted me to lay down so she could measure me)
8. What is your mommy's favorite thing to do? Relax in the bath (do I see a pattern here?)
9. What does your mom do when you're not around? Hang out with a friend
10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for? Because all boys will love you like they did before you got married
11. What is your mom really good at? Scrapbooking
12. What is your mom not very good at? Sports
13. What does your mom do for her job? Georgia carpet, computer, answer phones, payment
14. What is your mom's favorite food? Mexican
15. What makes you proud of your mom? If you get a husband with a little girl
16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be? Cinderella
17. What do you and your mom do together? Girl's day out shopping
18. How are you and your mom the same? Blonde hair and blue eyes
19. How are you and your mom different? Different face
20. How do you know your mom loves you? She smiles, kisses and hugs me

We now tag Brooklyn's cousin Bailey!

I Love This Girl!

2008-07-14T10:09:00.000-07:00

This little girl rocks my boat! This is my little niece Laynie. She is just so funny. Yesterday in church I was asked to turn the pages for the pianist during the choir number. After heading down from the stage she hollers, "You did a good job, Sheri!" I think she may have thought I was actually playing the piano?!?!? She always says, "I love you Sher...do you like when I call you Sher?" She loves to put on the brightest lipstick she can find in my makeup drawer...and then put the lid on before twisting it down. I have many ruined lipsticks but something about knowing it was her makes it okay. Her favorite thing to do is have me take pictures of the two of us on my cell phone. This was one of the more recent ones...when I look at this picture I get happy knowing she loves me so much..and also knowing there is nothing gross in my nose! Sorry, too much information...but this blogging thing is about real life right?

The Fingernails

2008-07-11T22:12:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that people were continually asking me if my divorce was final- after 3 years who can blame them? I was tired of them asking so I made up a way that people would know just by looking at me. Before I was married I had "fake" nails for about four years and loved them. Becoming a stay at home mom was important to me so I decided that would be one of my small sacrifices to the family budget and I would not have my nails. Flash forward 18 years, I decided the day my divorce was final, I would have nails put on. This would accomplish two purposes: I could have what I have missed for the last 18 years and I could tell people, "When you see my nails on you will know I am divorced." So that is what I did. On June 23rd, the day of the divorce, I had nails put on.

I loved my nails. They are not as expensive here in Utah and I feel like a girly girl (which I need now that I am working in a man's world). Well, I went in today for my fill and the vietnemese lady asked me who had done my nails the last time. I pointed to the empty table where the girl had sat. All the sudden the air was filled with all this vietnemese language I did not understand. These crazy women were rushing over, pointing at my nails, yelling in their language (not really but it sounds like they are yelling even when they are talking). The girl then came in and they started yelling at her. This went on for awhile. I wished I had George's dad from Seinfield...remember when Elaine had him go in with her so he could translate since he had been in the war there. I thought this crazy scene was over when all the sudden my lady started laughing behind her mask. Next think I know they are all gathered around again laughing at my fingernails. Who the heck knows what they were saying...not me! The whole episode was ridiculous! Anyway, I had thought my nails looked good...go figure. And as for the lady who did them today...I already broke one...so is she the queen nail lady? Not!

And as an added note she did an upsell waxing my eyebrows and upper lip. Ouch...and with blonde hair who can tell? Not me!

I TOOK THE PLUNGE!

2008-07-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

Well, last night I got brave and spent my $14.99 to join ldssingles.com so I could email the very cute Mark. The hardest part was writing a big old blurb about myself as well as putting on pictures that you know every male is going to judge you by. I did email him last night and he emailed me back at about midnight. No need to get overly excited as of yet because it was rather generic...but hopefully "something" will tug at him today as it has me. I mean after searching 3000...yes 3000...profiles, he was the one I couldn't get out of my head. Time will tell as it always does!

I will NEVER look for love online - Not!

2008-07-08T05:56:00.000-07:00

Well, last night must have been a lonely one because I did what I said I would never do and looked on line to see what men were out there. I found one that caught my eye in Hyrum, Utah. After looking at a map I decided it was nt too far away (up by Logan) . Because I am a lurker I didn't sign up for the membership so no way to contact him. I do think I will print out a picture of him though and make a vision board! He was a nice looking 47 year old construction guy with two kids. A couple he is close with wrote about him and I liked what they had to say. He had many wonderful qualities (according to the friends) and has a temple recommend - a plus in this day and age. It is amazing to me how many of the profiles wanted a woman who could hike, bike, ski, etc. Well, anyone who knows me knows that is not me...but I am not opposed to trying new things if I could find someone who would like to teach me and be patient with me. This guy just wanted a woman who loves to serve and said if he had a million dollars he would give it away. He finds much joy in helping people. He has two teenage children and said he especially loves working with teenagers who are having challenges. Oh well, he will just remain a dream unless I decide to put the money up to actually be able to contact people. If any of you know of anyone who is "worthy" please let me know. I would much rather go by word of mouth than experience all the scary stories I have heard when meeting strangers. Anyway, here's to me finding true love! It is out there, right? Or am I just a hopeless romantic!?!?!

Easy on the Eyes!

2008-07-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

My page may not be "easy on the eyes" but you must admit it is beautiful. I just wanted to join the younger crowd - seeing as I will be 43 this month! If I can get a blog up and running I am absolutely positive I can do anything. Well, hopefully I will be as fun and witty as all of you...and be darn sure I will have stories to tell from the teenage generation. Enjoy the little ones while you can...they are quite funny. Teenagers on the other hand - NOT!