Ellen and Rich

2011 Apache County Fair

2011-09-09T18:10:00.001-07:00

I won the Grand Prize for sewing at the Apache County Fair.

I entered six items and received blue ribbons on each of them.
The little blue dress on the left is mine. The white skirt laying down and to the right of it is a black print blouse and a black skirt that are mine. Then I won a blue on the blessing dress along with the grand prize and also I received a blue on the bonnet that goes with the blessing dress.

Mom received the Grand Prize in the handcrafting which includes crocheting, knitting, quilting and embroidery

My Grandchildren at Easter

2011-05-01T10:35:00.001-07:00

Boomer Sooner!

2011-03-19T13:19:00.002-07:00

Tra' and Lollie sent a wonderful surprise to their niece and nephews this past week. The kids were so excited to get a package from them. They each got something to wear with the University of Oklahoma emblems on them.

Lolllie made this adorable Tutu for Hannah. It also has a shirt that has an applique of OU on the front it zebra stripes and a matching headband.

Weston sporting his new OU baseball cap.

A cool visor for Caden!

Hannah dancing in the tutu. Also the shirt has OU on it with zebra stripes and a matching headband.

Darling cheerleader uniform . Hannah just loves this and won't hardly take it off.

Mason wasn't left out, but he was asleep when I took the pictures. He got the cutes little baseball shorts outfit with OU on it. I will post a picture of him later.

Our New Grandson

2011-02-03T18:47:00.000-07:00

This is our new grandson Mason Andrew.

He is now 2 weeks old.

He is a wonderful baby!

Wedding Cake for Sierra and Jordan

2010-12-15T04:11:00.002-07:00

The Bast Missionaries

2010-12-06T15:04:00.002-07:00

Alec is now in Grants, New Mexico. His companion is Elder Pahulu a Tongan from Florida. He has already given 2 blessings in the hospital and met many people. He is loving being a missionary.
Elder Jon Alexander Bast
226 Monroe
Grants NM 87020

Sean is in Northern Sacramento right now but will soon be moving to Stockton. He had to translate Sacrament meeting into Lao and is really enjoying the Laotion food. I don't have an address for Sean yet except his mission address.
Elder Sean Christopher Bast
California Sacramento Mission
8267 Deseret Ave.
Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Thanksgiving With Andrea and Tra'

2010-11-25T20:49:00.001-07:00

Rich and I have had so much fun being with Tra' and Andrea for Thanksgiving this year.

We made way to much food but it was sooooo good! Lots of left overs!

Goodbye Alec!

2010-11-16T07:42:00.002-07:00

It has been almost a week since Alec left for his mission. I would have posted sooner, but we stayed in Queen Creek with Michael and Sarah until Sunday. We left for the airport at about 5:00 am on Wed. Nov. 10th. His flight was at 7:40. He was so excited. You can see how happy he looks. Rich and I held it together until he was gone, but I have to say it is really tough to send your last child out into the world. I wouldn't have it any other way. He and Sean are exactly where they are supposed to be right now and we are so proud of both of them for preparing for this time. I can't wait to hear about Sean and Alec's reunion as Sean is still at the MTC. I know it will be wonderful as they are so close. Sean has been there since Sept. 15th and is doing really well learning the Laotion language. He says that they speak entirely Laotion in their classroom now and he is giving lessons in Laotion. It is amazing how they can learn a language so quickly.

2010-10-24T17:06:00.002-07:00

Today was Alec's farewell. He got to share the meeting with the Primary Sacrament Meeting program. I didn't take a picture of him, but he looked so handsome and so much like a missionary thanks to sweet Kirsten who cut his hair for him last night. His talk was short and sweet. Alec has such a happy disposition and a very touching testimony. I know he will be a wonderful missionary, very hard working and obedient. We really appreciate all the family who came to hear him speak. Afterwards, we went to Grandma's and Grandpa's house for a dinner of Cafe Rio sweet pork. That is Alec's favorite. It was so fun to visit with everyone and we especially enjoyed having Fred and Robyn spend the night with us. Fred was such a good sport and watched a movie out on the front lawn with Alec and Rich. They have a projector that puts the movie up on a big screen(a sheet stretched across the front porch). They have to bundle up in blankets and they light tiki lamps behind them. Robyn and I had a wonderful visit and she helped me prepare food for the lunch today. I really appreciated Christine helping me with the dinner. She made the rice and beans that made the dinner. I am so lucky to have such a great family.
Yesterday, I made a birthday cake for the son of my employer. It was his 18th birthday and they wanted a treasure chest, so this is what I came up with.

Quick Invitation

2010-10-21T11:53:00.002-07:00

Alec is going to have his mission farewell this coming Sunday. We invite anyone who would like to come. Our meeting time is 9:00 am at the Stake Center.

Taking Sean to the MTC

2010-09-17T10:21:00.007-07:00

This week has been a very bitter/sweet one. We left Monday morning for Utah to take Sean up to the MTC. He has been called to the Sacramento, California Mission speaking Laotian. He will be in Utah for a couple of months learning the language before he goes to California.
Tuesday morning we had to find another suit for Sean. We went to a store called Missionary Mall. It was just what we needed. He got a very nice black suit and some wonderfully comfortable shoes. He also found a perfect backpack. After shopping, we changed and loaded into the car for a trip to the Salt Lake Temple. It was so wonderful being in the Temple with the boys again. After the session, we sat in the Temple and just enjoyed the spirit there. While we were on Temple Square, we took a tour of the Conference Center. The boys hadn't ever seen it. It is an amazing building. The evening ended with a wonderful dinner at Olive Garden and then a quick trip to Walmart for some last minute shopping. Wednesday morning was a little sober. We were all both excited for Sean and also very emotional about our separation. It happens so fast. We drove into the parking lot where we were told to go. As we pull up to the curve where we were directed, we all got out, got his luggage out and had only enough time to give him a final hug. They whisked him right off. All of us were left with tears. I am so proud of Sean and his desire to serve the Lord. I am going to miss him something terrible but there is no other place I want him to be. We have Alec home for a few more weeks and then we will make this trip again.
Best friends

Leaving home for two years.

At the hotel the last night we were there.

Sitting on the Salt Lake City Temple grounds.

The east door of the Salt Lake Temple

On Tuesday afternoon, we drove to Salt Lake City and we went through a session in the Salt Lake Temple. The boys have always wanted to go inside that temple. It was a very special experience for all of us. Sean said it helped to feel less nervous about going on his mission.

We ate lunch just before we took him to the MTC.

About 15 minutes before Sean was dropped off.

Sean's Farewell was last Sunday and I was so busy, I didn't take any pictures. We really enjoyed having Kirk and Kathi come from Mesa and Fred and Robyn, Anthony and Amy and their girls, Mimi and Dan and their girls come from Phoenix. Thank you so much for coming.

Alec and Sean at the Temple

2010-09-03T15:48:00.002-07:00

Today was a wonderful day! Sean and Alec received their Endowments at the Snowflake Temple. It was such a special experience. I am so grateful for these two awesome sons. They were both so excited about today and they are so ready to serve as missionaries. I love these two so much! Thank you Grandma for being at the temple with us today.

Alec Has His Call Too!!

2010-08-07T15:06:00.004-07:00

What a blessing to have another mission call. Alec has been so anxious to get his call. He will be serving in the New Mexico, Farmington Mission. Not very far from home!

He opened his call at Grandpa and Grandma's home and we had three phone on speaker in front of him so that Michael & his family, Lauren, Tra' and Andrea could all be a part of it. We all guessed where he would go and no one said New Mexico. He is very excited and will be leaving for the MTC on November 10th. I am so grateful for such a good son. He will be a wonderful missionary because he has so much love in his heart. Boy is life going to change for our family. But it is all good!

Sean Has His Mission Call!

2010-07-16T16:45:00.002-07:00

Sean recieved his mission call today! Rich, Alec and I were with him as he opened it along with Grandma, Aunt Christine, Karen, & Spencer. Also if you look at the picture, in front of Sean are 3 phones put on speaker so that Lauren in Rexburg, Andrea and Tra' in Oklahoma and Michael, Sarah, Caden, Weston and Hannah in Queen Creek could be a part of it. We all put in a guess as to where he was going and Weston with his guess of Disneyland was actually the closest. Sean will be going to the Sacramento, California mission and he will be speaking Laotian. He is just thrilled about it! He will be leaving on Sept. 15. Only 2 Months!

Lots Happening This Weekend!

2010-05-31T18:38:00.007-07:00

Craigs Wedding!

Dad and all his daughters.

Craig and his sisters and mom.
Mom and her daughters.

Craig and Janette's Wedding Cake We loved having Robyn and Fred come to the boy's graduation.

After everyone received their diplomas, the spray each other with crazy string.

Sean and Alec ready for Honor Day. They were both honored for being Big Brothers, also for participating in the Spring Musical "Les Mis". Sean recieved an award for Choir participation and Alec received the Advanced Auto Mechanics award. Alec marched with Kelsey Crosby Sean march in with Eevanna Brown.

Seminary Graduation and Cowboy Birthday Cake

2010-05-27T08:39:00.004-07:00

Sean and Alec both graduated from Seminary last Sunday. They are wearing their new Missionary suits that Uncle Carroll and Aunt Christine got for them. Last Saturday was a birthday party for Larry Sherwood. He turned 90 years old. Kathleen asked me to make a cake. It was one of the most fun cakes I have done. I took a pattern from
Alec's hat to make the brim out of fondant. The top was cake I carved except for the ridges at the top. I used Twinkies there. The spurs are out of gum paste. I made a pattern from a pair of old spurs we had. Then the rope is a roll of fondant. I needed to make enough cake for 80 people so I made the bottom cake to look like a corral with barbed wire fence. It was really exciting as it came together and the family really liked it.

Don't You Just Love Spring!

2010-05-02T12:50:00.002-07:00

Sean is smelling the Lilacs.

PROM !

2010-05-01T14:26:00.003-07:00

Rich's Birthday, Les Mis, and Morp!

2010-04-18T20:46:00.004-07:00

Rich's birthay was April 5th and we had a birthday dinner for him. Lauren made a lemon cake for him. She just didn't know that the cake has to cool a little before you take it out of the pan, so the sides fell apart a little but it tasted great.

The St. Johns High School drama club put on Les Miserables and it was sooooo good. The cast had about 40 kids, two of which were Sean and Alec. I only took a few pictures, but I will get more from photographer that took lots of them. I did the costumes and it was quite a challange. I am especially proud of the French Constables(Played by Sean and Alec ) and Javert (Played by Spencer). I designed and made Sean and Alecs uniformsI designed and cut out Spencer's costume and Christine did the sewing. I made all the hats. I spent about two months working on all the costumes. I will post more pictures when I get them. Rich was the spot man. He was amazing!

Last night the boys went to MORP which is Prom backwards. It is a girl ask boy. They both said it was the best date they had ever been on. Karysa Wilhelm took Alec and Sarah Ridgley took Sean. They also had their friend Paul who went with Monica Diaz.

Time to Update!

2010-01-15T17:56:00.004-07:00

It has been awhile since I have posted and updated my blog. Lots has happened like Andrea's graduation and Christmas. We were able to drive to Oklahoma to watch Andrea Graduate. We are so proud of her. It was a very impressive graduation and she looked beautiful. Then she and Tra' came to Arizona for Christmas. It was one of the best Christmas' ever. Michael, Sarah, Caden, Weston and Hannah also came. And Lauren was home from school. It was the first time we had all been together for several years. We took a family photo. Tra' is photo shopping them for us but I wanted to post one now.

Grandpa and Weston taking a nap together.

Sean's Picture on the Front of the Sports Section

2009-11-27T15:38:00.003-07:00

The St. Johns HS football team has done really well this year but we lost in a really exciting game against Valley Christian in the state semifinal game. This is a picture of Sean causing a fumble as he took down a man. You can see the story at www.wmicentral.com and go to the sports section. His picture was half a page on the front of the sports section. He actually played the whole game, both defense and offense. The only time he got a break was on kick off. After the game he had some battle scars, the most prominent was a skinned and swollen chin. I should have taken a picture of him. The twins felt really bad about losing this game. But they gave their all so they were winners.

It Snowed!

2009-10-28T06:44:00.002-07:00

Last night we had the first snow of the year. It was so exciting when we woke this morning. The boys are a little worried about football practice today, but I'm sure it will be melted by then. They will be cold though because it will be wet! Weston is here with us and he loves the snow. I have to go and dig out some boots for him before it melts.

SJHS Homecoming 2009

2009-10-17T21:14:00.005-07:00

Spencer and Amanda Greer

Sean and Monica Diaz

Alec and Maria Lichfield

Tonight is the Homecoming Dance. The boys played Many Farms last night for the homecoming game and they won easily. This morning Alec, Sean, and Spencer cooked breakfast for their homecoming dates at the park. Later they watched a movie and ate pizza at our house. They just left for the dance. I think I will go over at peek at them in a little bit. Here are some pictures I took before they left.

Candace and Kyle's Wedding Cake

2009-10-09T10:22:00.005-07:00

This was an unusual cake but it turned out very pretty. I enjoyed making butterflies instead of flowers and the swirls turned out to be harder than I expected. I spent a lot of time on this cake but it was worth it because Candace loved it.

Happy Birthday Lauren!

2009-09-25T13:01:00.011-07:00

It's Lauren's birthday and I had so much fun looking through old pictures and remembering special times with her. She has always been the sunshine in my life. Her spirit is infectious. She makes me smile. I have always been so grateful for the musical talents of my daughters. Lauren could sing at 18 months old. Here are just a few of the pictures I was looking at today.

First Halloween costume!

The day she was sealed to us in the Temple.

Lauren was a fish in the water. She could swim down to the bottom of the deep end before she was two.

When she was three she took a handful of peanut butter and smeared it all over her face.

She loves costumes and being on the stage.

Lauren sang a solo at her High School graduation and she got a standing ovation from the audience. It was beautiful!

Lauren served a mission in the Kennewick, Washington mission.

We love you and miss you Lauren! Happy Birthday!

APACHE COUNTY FAIR

2009-09-11T12:51:00.004-07:00

This week is the Apache County Fair. It is always a fun time. I don't especially like the Carnival attached to it but the kids love it. I entered only one item in the fair this year and guess what! I won the outstanding exhibit in the sewing category plus a blue ribbon. I was pretty excited.

Feeling Bad for my Boys

2009-09-05T05:31:00.004-07:00

Last night was the St. Johns vs Round Valley game. We lost. It was the end of a 26 game winning streak and I feel so bad for the boys. I know this picture doesn't look like they are to unhappy but they both were teary eyed. What I love about this picture, is that family is more important than anything. This is the one and only time these boys will ever play against each other and even though they play for rival schools, they are friends and they care about each other. Chantz played a wonderful game and we are so proud of him for that. But Sean and Alec played well too and we are so proud of them. It just wasn't their night. They are still a great team and we expect good things from them.

GO REDSKINS!

We Beat Payson!

2009-08-28T22:39:00.003-07:00

The St. Johns Redskin football team were awesome tonight. They came to win and win they did. Payson is the Arizona defending 3A State Champions and St. Johns is the defending 2A State Champions. They had twice as many boys on their team and they were bigger but we were better. Sean had several great tackles. He is starting on both Offense and Defense. Alec played really well to making some great blocks. The Redskins now have a 26 game winning streak and two( back to back) State Championship titles.

Go Redskins!

Sean and Alec turn 18

2009-08-24T20:25:00.005-07:00

Today is Alec and Sean's 18th birthday. We had planned a party for them for Saturday night. We had the swimming pool rented for an hour and then were going to have the kids come to our house for a movie out on the lawn with Cafe Rio sweet pork salad for dinner. The boys had rented the movie "Frisco Kid" to show their friends. We hung lights out around the front yard and gathered lawn chairs. But everything changed as we got the first big thunderstorm of the season! It started to rain about 2:00 so we took down all the lights. Then it stopped raining so we put the lights back up. It started raining again so we scrubbed the outdoor movie idea and took the lights down again. It was still raining when it was time to swim. They wouldn't let us in the pool because of lightning. So Rich told all the kids to head to the Movie Theatre and he would pay for them all to see "Harry Potter" When we got to the theatre, the projector wasn't working so NO MOVIE! Every one came back to the house and we fed them the Sweet Pork Salad which turned out really good. Then we cleared the furniture out of the living room and the kids watched "Frisco Kid" projected on the wall. After the movie we served cake and ice cream. It turned out fun but not the way we had planned. The boys opened their presents today and we put cups in the chain link fence at school with their names and the number 18. I think they got sung to in several of their classes because everyone saw the cups. Unfortunately Alec came home from football practice tonight with either stomach flu or food poisoning. He is so sick. I think we are in for a night of it.

This was the birthday cake I made for their party. Alecs MGB and juggling balls for Sean. They are all out of cake.

First Day of School and Visit From Lauren

2009-08-21T10:21:00.004-07:00

Alec and Sean started school on Monday. I barely caught them as they were leaving to get a first day picture for the last time.

Lauren and Klayton have been able to come and visit us during their break. It has been so fun having them here and getting to know Klayton. He and Lauren have been friends since they met in May. Klayton is from Palmdale, California and they first drove to California and spent a week with his family. While they were there, they went to Disneyland (one of my favorite places). They will be leaving on Sat. It will be hard to see Lauren go. I always go through withdrawal when my kids or grandkids leave.

Lauren got a new haircut. Pretty short! She looks really cute.

Summer is coming to an end!

2009-08-14T21:02:00.003-07:00

Tonight was the red and white scrimmage for the football team. The varsity offence plays against the defence under the football lights. It is the last night of two-a-day practices, which have been going on for the last two weeks. It gets everyone excited for the new season. I didn't take any pictures but it was fun. Next week we scrimmage against Blue Ridge. Then the first game is the following week against Payson (last years 3A State Champions) which will be a tough game. This is Sean and Alec's last year of football.

Sean and Alec start their Senior year on Monday. They are excited for school to start. I think they are kind of bored with summer. I always hate the summer to end. It is fun having the boys around and my favorite part of summer is the swimming pool. I go swimming almost every morning with Mom and Christine. There is only one more week until they close the pool.

I made another wedding cake this week for Katelyn Lefevre. It turned out really pretty. It was just what she wanted.

24th Celebration and Family

2009-07-28T22:30:00.004-07:00

This past week has been so great. My daughter, Andrea drove out from Oklahoma to visit with us. She brought her 16 year old bother-in-law with her to spend the week with my twins. I haven't seen Lollie since March and it was so fun to be with her. We really missed Tra'. Sarah and the kids also came out for the week. We had a house full of family and it was wonderful. Michael came Wed. night and stayed until Sunday. Today Lollie and Sarah both left. I always feel sad when they leave. I wish they were closer.

These pictures were taken by Sarah at the parade on Sat. Alec was driving the scooter that pulled the Pooper scooper wagon. Sean, Caden and Uncle Carroll followed behind and cleaned the street after the horses. They were really good sports.

Time to Post!

2009-07-15T13:06:00.005-07:00

It has been awhile since I posted. My camera stopped working and I like to put pictures with my posts but I realized it might be awhile until I get it fixed. I am getting excited for the 24th celebrations. Lollie is coming and Sarah is coming early to spend more time with Lollie. I just wish Tra' could come too. Michael will come on Thurs. Lauren will still be in school and I will miss her too.
Sean is getting ready to go on a scuba diving trip to Catalina with Carroll, Christine, Spencer and Karen. He is so excited. He got his scuba license last summer and it has become one of his most favorite things to do.
I always have projects going. Right now I am altering bridesmaid dresses for the Lefevre's. I will also be doing the wedding cake in August.
We are going to go to the valley this weekend to do some school shopping for Sean and Alec. I can't believe that the summer is going so fast. Sean and Alec will start two-a-days for football in just two and a half weeks. Then they will be back in school!
.................................Seniors!

Latest Wedding Cake

2009-06-28T17:04:00.002-07:00

I made this cake for Tyra Morales.

Weston and the Geese

2009-06-26T08:11:00.004-07:00

For Sarah and Michael

2009-06-25T15:41:00.002-07:00

I know you are missing this little guy so I thought you might like some pictures.

Wedding Dress

2009-06-24T21:48:00.005-07:00

I finished a major project this past week. I made a wedding gown for Rochelle Stevens. She was married last Sat. I think I probably put in over 40 hours on this dress. I think it turned out really beautiful and Rochelle looked amazing in it.

Rich and the boys went to Queen Creek last weekend so that Caden could sign up for Pop Warner football. When they came back they brought Weston. It has been so fun having him here. We went swimming on Tues. I love watching TV with him because he lets me cuddle with him.

Caden

2009-06-14T15:40:00.004-07:00

One of the best things that has been happening every summer for the last 3 or so years is that my grandson Caden comes and spends a big part of the summer with us in St. Johns. It serves several purposes. Grandma gets her grandkid fix(hugs everyday). Sean and Alec get the little brother experience(someone getting into your things and following you around). Caden gets the big brother experience (getting beat up on). Grandpa has someone else to tell his stories to. WE ARE ALL HAPPY!

Last time Hannah was here she kept putting on the Mr. Potato Head glasses. I just had to share this picture.

Sisters!

2009-06-06T10:53:00.003-07:00

What a FUN week to have all my sisters here in St. Johns. Carolyn came last Sat. with her two girls. Sat. night Camille and Sierra had a little accident after taking Chantz up to Eagar. On the way home, they missed the turn to St. Johns and headed towards Show Low. It was their bad luck to hit a deer. They were able to drive the car back to SJ escorted by a police car. The car may be totaled. It has to be towed to a body shop to see if it can be repaired. Sunday evening we all ate dinner at Mom and Dad's. Gary's and Scot's families came for dinner. Sierra and Camille went to EFY in Show Low with the St. Johns kids. Sean, Alec and Spencer went also. Monday, Kirk and Kathi came and stayed a couple of nights. On Tuesday Julie and Linda Picked up Jann from the airport and drove from Tucson. We swam, played card games (especially a new game Carolyn taught us called "Cover Your Assets"), watched movies and "So You Think You Can Dance" with lots of laughter and fun. On Thurs. we all went to the Temple in Snowflake along with Dad and Mom. Craig met us there but was only able to stay one night as he had a show the next evening. Everyone left Sat morning. Christine and Carroll drove Carolyn and her girls to Flagstaff where they met Paul. Linda and Julie took Jann to Phoenix to catch a plane. Now I am going to take a nap because I stayed up so late finishing a wedding cake for today. I missed out on some of the fun because I had to work on the cake.

2009-05-30T11:00:00.011-07:00

Happy Birthday Andrea!

It is my BEAUTIFUL daughter Andrea's twenty second birthday today and I wanted to give her a little tribute because I couldn't be with her today. She is the most loving, caring, talented, smart and beautiful person I know. I am so grateful that she is my daughter. She has brought so much joy into my life. I can't even imagine life without her. I miss so many things since she has grown up and left our home. I miss the piano playing all the time. I miss going to track meets and watching her run. I miss her hugs. I miss her smile. I miss her efficiency. I hope she has a wonderful birthday and I wish I could be with her to celebrate, but she has to know that I am thinking about her and loving her.

Have a GREAT day!

Change!

2009-05-23T19:53:00.003-07:00

I asked Kirsten to do something different with my hair and this is the result. It is actually pretty close to my natural color. I was blond as a girl but my hair has gotten darker as I have gotten older. I is kind of fun to have a change. I don't think Rich likes it very well. He always thinks of me as a blond. I like the change.

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T17:29:00.005-07:00

My favorite Son-in-Law sent me this beautiful corsage. Thank you so much Tra'!

Sean and Alec are wearing their new Letterman jackets.

Alec made breakfast for me, and Rich made a great dinner with London broil, twice baked potatoes and mixed veggie. It has been a great day! I love my family.

Wedding Cake

2009-05-07T08:19:00.002-07:00

Along with prom this past weekend, I made a wedding cake. I made 2 dozen yellow roses, two dozen blossom clusters, 4 dozen babies breath clusters, and 4 dozen leaves. The top two layers were cake and the bottom two, I covered dummy cakes. This cake was for Emily Burgoyne.

Prom 2009

2009-05-04T08:08:00.016-07:00

Alec and Sean ready to leave for their dates.

Christine took all the furniture out of her livng room and decorated it with a canope and lanterns haning from the ceiling and draped the walls with window scarves. You can see how beautiful the table was set. She cooked a seven course meal with sorbet palette cleansers between the two main courses. The kids loved the dinner. It took six of us to serve. Three of us would clear a course while the other three followed behind and set down the next course.

Spencer and Lindsey LeFevre

Alec and Eevanna Brown

Sean and Cassie James

At the PROM!

Rich's Birthday

2009-04-06T12:50:00.004-07:00

Yesterday was Rich's birthday. Because it was Sunday we didn't do much but we watched General Conference as a family. It was such an amazing conference. This is always my favorite time of the year when we get to listen to Prophets and Apostles as they teach and guide us. Many of them left me in tears and as I looked at my family, they all had tears too. It always makes me want to try harder to be the kind of person Heavenly Father want me to be.

After conference, we went to Dad and Mom's for dinner. We enjoyed Gary and Chantz, Scott, Lori, Mandi, Noelle and Brooklyn, Carroll, Christine, Spencer, Kirsten and Josh along with Dad and Mom.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RICH!

2009-04-03T17:33:00.006-07:00

I can't believe that it is already April. March just flew by. I haven't posted for awhile so I thought I'd get caught up. I have had a very busy month. The best part of it was that I was able to go and spend Andrea's Spring Break with her and Tra' in Oklahoma. I hadn't seen them since Thanksgiving, so I was so excited. We had such a good time. I loved being with my daughter and sewing and getting pedicures and just talking non stop. We would go to bed way to late especially the last night because we didn't want it to end. I wish I lived closer to them, so I could see them more often. Andrea and I both cried when I left.

Sean and Alec both have dates for prom. They also got to go on a horse packing trip in the mountains near Safford during their Spring Break. They didn't take a camera so we don't have any pictures but they had a really good time.

Rich and I got to go and spend a few days with Michael and Sarah and the grand kids. It was Caden's tenth birthday and we went to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. I love my handsome grandson. He is such as special boy, so talented and smart. He and his dad are writing stories together. Michael writes and Caden illustrates them. He draws really well and he is an amazing athlete.

Last Sat. was the Young Women's broadcast and because it was during Spring Break for the girls in our Stake, there was no one at the broadcast. I watch it all by myself in the Chapel. Because I am in the Stake Young Women's presidency, I represented the Stake at the broadcast. I had even set up a table with cookies and milk. It was actually a very spiritual experience. The messages were so good and it was what I needed to hear that day. The following Wednesday, we had a dinner for the girls and there mothers to show the broadcast. It turned out really nice. I made bookmarks for the girls that we past out after the broadcast. Since I had seen it already, I made the bookmark to go along with the messages. This is the only picture I have taken in awhile.

Prom?

2009-03-11T18:10:00.004-07:00

Sean and Alec are about to ask some girls to prom. I helped them out a little with these little cakes. Their names are in the cakes. One of their friends is going to deliver them tonight. I hope they don't get turned down.

Young Women's Invitation

2009-03-07T19:45:00.003-07:00

I spent a big part of my day today making an invitation for Laurel Prep. We are doing a special evening talking about modesty. This is something we do as a Stake YW presidency every year before prom. I usually help fix several girl's dresses every year. It is so hard to find modest formals so we help them with ideas. I thought the invitation turned out cute so I decided to share it. I made 42 of them.

About Time!

2009-03-05T05:16:00.003-07:00

I haven't posted in awhile, so I thought I'd better catch up. Rich, Lauren, Alec, Sean and I went to Queen Creek last weekend to spend Weston's birthday with him. It was as fun time as usual. Weston is such a personality. He makes his grandma feel special. He is funny and clever and smart. He reminds me so much of his father. Just a little mini Michael. I love being with my grandkids. I miss them so much when I am not around them.

I am so excited about this coming week! Andrea has spring break and she bought me a ticket to come out and spend it with her in Oklahoma! I miss her so much and can hardly wait to be with her and Tra'. I am going to be there a whole week! I will post some pictures when I get back.

I have two big projects coming up. I am making a wedding gown for Rochelle Stevens. She is a girl that worked in Rich's office. She joined the church last June and has found a guy that is taking her to the temple this June. The other project is a wedding cake for Emily Burgoyne. She is getting married in April. I have to start making sugar flowers as soon as I get back from Oklahoma.

Lauren and Sean both tried out for the Fine Arts Talent Show. Lauren sang and Sean juggled. They will find out if they made it this morning. Spencer also tried out. He sang and play his ukulele. There is a $300 prize for the winner. It will be on Mar 18. Good luck to all three of them!

2009-02-13T08:37:00.004-07:00

8 THINGS ABOUT ME
Here are the rules:
1)POST RULES ON YOUR BLOG
2)ANSWER THE SIX "8" ITEMS(They're not in any particular order)
3)LET EACH PERSON KNOW BY LEAVING THEM A COMMENT
8 FAVORITE TV SHOWS
1. Project Runway
2. Top Chef
3. American Idol
4. Biggest Loser
5. Ace of Cakes
6. House
7. Food Network Challanges
8. Hallmark Movies
8 THINGS I DID YESTERDAY
1. Laundry
2. Dishes
3. Cooked Dinner
4. Read Scriptures
5. Watched the movie "Doc Holliwood"
6. Read Blogs
7. Sewed a dress for Lauren
8. Made bread
Kind of a boring day!
8 THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO
1. Visiting Andrea and Tra'
2. Visiting Michael, Sarah and my Grandchildren
3. Spring blossoms
4. Summer
5. Having Caden spend the summer with us
6. Lauren and Andrea's graduations
7. Swimming
8. Outtings with Christine
8 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
1. Tavern on th Green (in New York)
2. Ralph and Cuckoos (New Orleans)
3. Luther's Bar-B-Que (New Orleans)
4. Texas Road House
5. Olive Garden
6. Costa Vida
7. P. F. Changs
8. In and Out Burger
8 THINGS ON MY WISH LIST
1. My Dad to get completely well
2. A vacation to Disneyland with my kids and grand kids
3. Lauren to find a mate
4. A visit to Andrea and Tra'
5. My own home
6. A Hawaiian vacation
7. Serve a mission with Rich
8. A professional sewing machine
I am not going to tag anyone but if you would like to do this, I would love to find out these things about you.

Belated Birthday Dinner

2009-02-10T18:51:00.002-07:00

I have been in the Stake Young Women's Presidency for the past four years and every year we have two birthday dinners. Laurette and I have birthdays in Jan. and Janet and Tara have birthdays in Mar. This evening Tara and Janet took Laurette and I to El Camino for dinner. It was really good as usual. I had the taco dinner. We really enjoy each other and have become such good friends.

Renaissance Dress

2009-02-07T11:54:00.005-07:00

It took me until 1:30 am to do it but I am finished with the Renaissance dress. I ran out of the braid ties, so I have to get some more to tie the shoulder ties. Now I've got to get someone to model it for some pictures. Hopefully I can find someone who wants to buy it. Rich wants me to put a label in it with my name. I can't think of anything creative to call my dresses. So if anyone has any idea's for my dress label, please share. I am going to do all kinds of costumes dresses. I think it turned out well!

2009-02-04T07:53:00.002-07:00

I decided it is time for a new post. I haven't done anything too exciting but I'll update on whats been going on here. Last weekend Sean sang his first solo at the regional choir tryouts. I didn't know he was going to do it until just a few days before. I guess it was a requirement for choir. Luckily he has been taking voice lessons from Grandma and had a song ready "Danny Boy". But he neglected to get an accompanist. So the night before I called his choir teacher (Debbie Lichfield) and she agrees to accompany him. We don't know yet how he did. But Debbie was surprised at how well he did. By the way, the first time he ever sang the song with the accompaniment was at the tryout. Spencer sang "Danny Boy" also and Christine accompanied him. But Spencer sang in Low Voice and Sean sang in High Voice so they were in different keys. Then Sat. night after getting home from Holbrook (that's where the tryouts were), he went to the Winter Formal. It was a girl- ask- guy and he was asked by Lindsey Lefevre. He had a good time. I don't have any pictures because he ran out before Lindsey could even get in the door. Rich and I went to Flagstaff on Saturday and brought Lauren home. She tried to find a job there but had no luck. She withdrew from school because she was unable to get any of the classes she needed. She is only about two semesters away from graduating and we couldn't see wasting a semester. She can go back to BYU-I in April so she is trying to find a job. If anyone knows of one she would be most grateful. She can go anywhere for a couple of months. She really doesn't want to stay in St. Johns. Now, what I am up to, I have started making a dress. It is a Renaissance dress. I have wanted to see if I could make and sell costumes on line. I am making it really fancy with lots of detail so someone might want it. I will post a picture when I am finished. And last, I am really having fun watching American Idol. I don't know why, but I love that show. I guess I love to see how talented these people are. I'm hooked.

Great Birthday

2009-01-23T10:21:00.005-07:00

Last weekend, Michael called me and offered me an all expense paid trip for my birthday to Queen Creek to spend it with my grand kids! Well, how could I turn down an offer like that. Rich and I went on Tuesday and I was treated to a movie and lunch with Sarah and then she made a birthday dinner of Sweet Pork salad. It was soooo good and then we watched a movie. I got lots of love from my three beautiful grandchildren and then to top it off, I got to bring Weston home with me. Michael and Sarah are coming for the weekend so Rich and I have him for an extra day. Here are some pictures of him here this morning. He and Grandpa went to gather eggs and check on the chicken.

Kirsten's Challange

2009-01-15T08:26:00.009-07:00

Kirsten challenged me to write about five things I love and then pass it on. So here goes.

#1 I love my husband, Rich! He has been my very best friend since I was 17. We never run out of thing to talk about. I love to travel with him as we always have a great time. He is always very tender and loving with me.

#2 My Children
Michael's creativity and imagination. Sarah's thoughtfulness and awesome mothering.

Lauren's beautiful voice and strong testimony. Andrea's ambition, efficiency, beautiful smile and piano.

Tra's amazing ability to do anything he sets his mind to and his willingness to always help.
Alec's smile, positive attitude and mechanical talents.

Sean's determination, obedience and amazing trampoline abilities.

#3 My Grandchildren

Playing with my grand kids, kissing my grand kids, thinking about my grand kids when they are not around brings more joy than I ever thought possible.

#4 I love creating things with my hands. All kinds of needlework and sewing. Cake decorating has become a new hobby that is so much fun.

#5 PEARLS !!! They are my favorite gem. I just think they are so beautiful,.

Lauren Went Back To School

2009-01-12T07:19:00.002-07:00

Last Friday, Rich and I took Lauren back to Flagstaff so that she could start her new semester. She has moved out of the dorms and into an apartment with other LDS girls. It will be much cheaper than the dorm and she can cook which is cheaper than the cafeteria. She was glad to get back. On the way we stopped in Winslow for her to take a Christmas present to Kyle. She had made a tied quilt. He seemed very pleased to see her. This is one of the slowest relationships I have seen, but I guess that is good. They are best friends and that is a good way to start and if it doesn't go anywhere she still has a good friend. Now that Lauren is gone, it seems like the holidays are truly over. It has been a good time. Now back to normal life. I even got all my decorations down last week. Alec and Sean have started rehearsal for the Spring play. They both are salesmen. I think the play is sometime in April. Everything else is just normal life.

New Year Visit

2009-01-05T17:09:00.004-07:00

We had a wonderful surprise on New Years Day when Michael and Sarah decided to come a visit us. It was so fun to have them here for three whole days. We played games, watched movies and football games and enjoyed the grand kids. Mike and Sarah took the kids and Sean and Alec up to the mountains to sled in the snow. We broke out all the old ski clothes. They all looked very 80's! But at least they were warm. Thanks for coming Sarah and Mike. We love you!

It snowed last night and so the boys had late start for school today. They didn't have to be there until 10:00 am. I think it was kind of nice to not have a full day on the first day back. After two weeks of holiday they got to ease back into the daily schedule.

New Years Eve Dance

2008-12-31T23:17:00.004-07:00

Christine and Carroll, Rich and I all were asked to chaperon the New Years Dance. I'm not really sure why they needed chaperons as it was a family dance. We only lasted until 11:00 pm and now we're home.

Alec seemed to be having a good time. He danced all the slow dances. We've got to teach our boys how to swing dance. Maybe Michael will give them some pointers as he is quite the swing dancer.

Sean just finished dancing with Jessica Greer. He was smiling until Rich pointed the camera at him. In the next picture I caught him smiling with Spencer and Bryce.

Happy New Year to everyone! Mike and Sarah are coming to see us tomorrow so I am in heaven. Grandkids!

CAMPING IN THE SNOW!

2008-12-31T07:53:00.004-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, the twins told us that they wanted to go camping with Karen and Spencer. I thought they were nuts! It is sooooo cold. But they decide to camp just outside of town on Dr. Pews property that used to be Grandpa Davis' farm. Rich called Dr. Pew and he said go ahead. They originally were going to eat what they killed (Rabbit). But I pack them up some turkey (left over) sandwiches and chips and sent hot chocolate. They came back into town about 9:00 pm to get some eggs. I thought they had given up on the camping. No way! They wanted to cook eggs over their fire. I can't wait to hear about the night (they aren't home yet). I don't think they took a camera so I won't have any pictures to post. I should have thought to send a camera.

Sunday Dinner

2008-12-28T23:29:00.002-07:00

Rich always loves a turkey dinner and he bought a turkey right before Christmas. Because it was frozen, it wasn't thawed enough to cook until Sunday. So we invited Grandpa and Grandma and Chris and Carroll's family for dinner. It turned out really good. Rich actually prepared the turkey himself. We made potatoes and gravy. Grandma made dressing. a cranberry salad, carrots,and asparagus and Christine brought a ham and salad. After dinner the kids wanted to teach Grandma to play guitar hero. She actually did really well. No surprise with her musical talent. After she and Grandpa left, we play some games and enjoyed being together.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-26T18:04:00.004-07:00

You can see Rich's decorations. He went all out this year. Three whole strings of lights on the fence and tree. The neighbors aways put us to shame.

Christmas day was not a white Christmas but the wind started blowing Christmas night. I thought it was going to blow the roof off. By the next morning it was snowing and it snowed all day until about 5:00 pm. The boys went sledding with Karen and Spencer. Sean was in heaven he loves the snow.

The weekend before Christmas, Rich, Sean, Alec and I went to visit Michael's family. We really enjoyed being with the grandkids. We went to church with them and had a wonderful Christmas visit. Craig and his girls came out and had dinner with us Sunday night. Sarah made the most amazing dinner. It was my favorite part of this Christmas season.

We had a quiet but very nice Christmas. Alec and Sean are lounging around after opening presents.

Football Awards Banquet

2008-12-17T09:16:00.003-07:00

Last night we went with Sean and Alec to their football award banquet. After a Mexican food feast (it was potluck), Coach Morgan proceeded to honor the team. Every boy received a state champion plaque with their name and number on it and also a certificate from the state football association. After that the coach gave certificates to those boys who made the all region teams. Sean made all region second team and Alec received an honorable mention. About six boys made the first team and five made the second team and three made honorable mention. We were very proud of the twins.

2008-12-16T06:31:00.000-07:00

Last Sat. night was the christmas electric light parade and Alec put lights all over his car. He dressed like Santa and Spencer was in the seat next to him with a black wig done up in a beehive hairdo with lights all through it. The sign on the front of the car was to advertise Kirsten's Salon. They were sooooo... cute. But the weather that night was terribe. It was freezing cold and the wind was blowing about 40 miles an hour. Spencer's hairdo was blown to pieces. We sat in our car until the parade got right next to us and then we got out and watched. Rich bought a flashing light sabor and a flashing whistle from a passing vender and blew his whistle and waved the sabor during the parade. It was him and all the kids. I should have taken a picture. I guess some kids never grow up.

It has been so good to have Lauren home for Christmas. We spent the day yesterday tying a quilt for Kyle. I helped her sew the top and bottom to get ready to put it on the frames, but she did all the sewing. Then after we got it on, she started tying it and I went to Grandmas to make tamales. Carolyn and Paul are visiting with Grandpa and Grandma. So Grandma, Christine, Carolyn and I worked for about 4 hours and made about 15 doz tamales. Ryan and Brianna have moved to Albuqueque, NM and Paul and Carolyn helped them move. Ryan and Brianna came to visit also. It has been fun getting to know Brianna better. She is such a cute girl. When I got home, Lauren had finished almost half of the quilt, so I sat down and helped her and we finished tying it about 9:oo pm. She is now going to put points on it to bind it. It will be really nice.

Here I Go

2008-12-12T05:37:00.000-07:00

I am finally joining the blogging world. I have to admit I don't care much for writing, but I love reading other people's blogs and keeping up with what is going on in my friends and family's lives. So I'd also better contribute and let everyone know what is happening here.

We still have our twins at home for another year and a half. They are great. They just finished their football season with a 2A State Championship. It is the second year in a row. It has been exciting watching them play. They have now changed gears and have auditioned for the school spring muscial, "Bye, Bye, Birdie". Neither one of them wants a lead. They just like to be in the chorus and dance with the girls.

We are getting ready for Christmas. It will be pretty quiet this year. Lauren will be home from school but we will miss Andrea and Tra', and Michael, Sarah and my grandkids. We will be going to visit Michaels family sometime during the holidays.