My Dad

Sixteen years ago today, Dad passed away. Cami and I were driving as fast as we could from Vegas, past Mesquite, through the gorge, and finally to St George, all the while listening to a tape of the BeeGees to try to keep us awake because of the late hour. But we didn't make it in time to see him one last time before he died. I knew he was gone while we were driving through the gorge, so I kinda slowed down a bit, thinking, 'there's no real hurry now.' He'd been in the hospital for a week or so and wasn't doing very well, so I promised Mom I would come up on Saturday instead of waiting until Monday. But this was Friday evening, June 13th, 1997, and we didn't get that last visit in before he slipped from this earth. We were met at the hospital by my brother, who informed us of Dad's passing. After spending a short time saying our final goodbyes, we drove on up to Springdale, UT, where my Mom was waiting up for us. She hadn't been able to go see Dad that day because of health problems herself. It was hard greeting her on such a sad note, but it actually helped all of us by talking about him and reminiscing a little before going to bed and trying to get some sleep.

I'm not sure what time it was, but I hadn't been to 'sleep' very long when I saw the most vivid rainbow in my mind's eye. I understood that it was Dad letting me know that he could see again! Even tho words not spoken, I knew! He could see and what he saw was so much more colorfully intense than anything on earth! I had been privileged to have that experience (which I shared with Mom when I got up)! I have never forgotten that and now when I see a rainbow or prism of color I am reminded of that special experience. That was just one of many experiences I've had since then when I have been reminded of the fact that the veil is very thin and our loved ones are near. I'm so grateful for that knowledge!

So today, I'm remembering those good times I was able to share with my Dad over the years. What wonderful memories I have! Hearing stories, riding up in Zion, trying to maneuver the mowing machine while Dad drove the tractor, singing duets, playing guitar with Dad playing the harmonica, cookouts, hiking, hanging out and talking until way late, are just some of the good times we shared.

I love you Dad! Thanks for everything!

The end of another year--2012

Well, I have neglected my blog for quite a while and I need to write something before the year ends. It has been a crazy one, to be sure! January started off with a bang! Our house was hit and my car totaled, we finally got our house fixed sometime in April, with a whole new facelift. The summer was another scorcher here in the desert. Fall, (did we have a fall?) was still pretty warm. We had 3 grandkids baptisms this year and that was pretty awesome. My husband has had a few odd jobs here and there, but nothing steady yet. It was an election year, too, so he got to work for one of the candidates (Romney)...going door to door, passing out literature and encouraging folks to vote.

Christmas came and went so fast, I still can't quite believe it was here at all. For Thanksgiving and Christmas we were blessed to be able to spend it with our children and grandchildren that live around us. Fortunately, tho, during the summer, our oldest son and his family came for a visit from Alabama. Boy, how quick the kids grow up! Thanksgiving, our daughter & son-in-law, that live in Utah, were able to spend Thanksgiving with us. I am truly thankful for the internet that enables us to keep in touch with our family via Skype, Facebook, and emails.We have come along way...

I'm hopeful that the new year will bring many blessings and good things to us and our family. I also pray that the economy will turn around for the better and people will be able to find jobs, keep their homes, and our country can heal from all the tragedies brought on by natural disasters and crimes that are unspeakable.

One of my favorite quotes says it all: "...fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith." --President Thomas S. Monson

Happy New Year to all my family and friends--near and far! May God bless America and keep it the land of the free!

More things I've made. A Thanksgiving banner; baby gift: receiving blanket, burp cloths, & changing pad; and dish mats for friends, family & myself.

Homemade Christmas items for 2011

End of another year--2011

Wow, it's been a long time since I've posted on here! At the near close of this year, I reflect back on the crazy year it has been! A lot has happened in our family--our oldest son, Tom, and his family moved to Montgomery, Alabama, for a job opportunity. My husband turned 65 and is now one of the Medicare set. I have been busy sewing and creating gifts for Christmas (which seemed to be a success) and I'm already thinking ahead to my next project(s), perusing the internet and the many talented crafters' blogs for ideas. My youngest, Cami, and her husband were able to come down for Thanksgiving for a few days and stayed with us. That was a pleasant surprise, but went by way to fast!! I am ready for a new and better year ahead...I am thankful for the generosity and kindness that has been shown to me and my family. I am truly grateful for and blessed to have the best family and friends! I love them all so much!

But, I just want to say that I am thankful for this Christmas season, where we have had the opportunity to commemorate our Savior's birth of over 2,000 years ago. He has truly changed the world! I am grateful for His example, His love, and for his Atonement and sacrifice in my behalf. May each of us remember to be kinder, more loving, and give service to those around us, as He did. It has been a hard year, but I know this next year is bound to be a much better one, in a lot of ways!

Relief Society Meeting on Gardening

Last night we had a wonderful class on Gardening taught by Brandy Simper. She did a great job and gave us a lot of information to help us catch the vision of following the prophets' advice to plant a garden! She brought with her some amazing fruits and vegetables that she had grown in her own garden. I added her link to my blog because it is very informative and has lots of fun ideas and helps on there. We had a good turn out and invited our husbands to attend with us. Our refreshments were cups of chocolate pudding 'dirt' and a veggie tray...simple fare to go along with the theme of the evening. I think that everyone was excited about giving gardening a try! Thanks Sister Simper for sharing your expertise and enthusiasm with us!

Next month Sister Simper will be giving us information on Food Storage. That should be very helpful as well, especially in these economic times.

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