Darrel's first day at the Guidance Center in Show Low. Trina, the kids and I met him for lunch at the Subway near the hospital. The weather was overcast with scattered showers.
We said goodbye to Darrel and headed to Walmart to do some shopping. Addy and I finished our shopping before Trina, Rowan and Ruby. I wanted to buy her a chocolate dipped ice cream cone at McDonald's but she said no because her mom might not want her to have it. What a girl!
Trina fixed dinner. She made 7 layer dip at Addy's request. She says it's one of her favorite things. After dinner grandpa built a fire outside and Trina made us campfire cones, a dessert she found on Pinterest. She took an ice cream cone and filled it with chocolate, marshmallows, strawberries and bananas and then wrapped it in foil and threw it on the fire. They were quite tasty.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Sunday, June 24, 2012
I was so glad I put a roast on before leaving for church this morning. It was nice to come home and have something good to eat. James had a meeting after church. Brother Wallace brought him home.
I laid down to take a nap but couldn't sleep. I was excited that Darrel and Trina are coming this evening.
They arrived around 6pm. We had dinner: roast, asparagus, corn, and salad. We are so happy to see everyone. Addy, Rowan, and Ruby are so excited to be here. They were all three talking to me all at once. So fun!
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Family Temple day. Tricia went to the temple. Thanks you Tricia. We are planning another one the end of July. It will be on Saturday, July 28th.
James has a goal to read through his talk at least 10 times before he gives it. He is still a little concerned about his voice. It seems he always gets laringitis before giving a talk.
We took a break today and went in to town. Our first stop was for lunch at La Casita Mexican Food Restaurant. I had a green chili burro and James had a crab enchilada. My burro was very similar to those at The Burger House in Miami and I left with a smile on my face. James was pretty crazy about his crab enchilada too.
James went to Home Depot to spend the two gift cards he got for Father's Day from Kim and Darrel. I went to Walmart to get a roast and some other things for dinner tomorrow. I can't get out of this store without spending $100.
Back home to work on our talks and to enjoy the weather and do some reading while sitting outside on the deck.
James has a goal to read through his talk at least 10 times before he gives it. He is still a little concerned about his voice. It seems he always gets laringitis before giving a talk.
We took a break today and went in to town. Our first stop was for lunch at La Casita Mexican Food Restaurant. I had a green chili burro and James had a crab enchilada. My burro was very similar to those at The Burger House in Miami and I left with a smile on my face. James was pretty crazy about his crab enchilada too.
James went to Home Depot to spend the two gift cards he got for Father's Day from Kim and Darrel. I went to Walmart to get a roast and some other things for dinner tomorrow. I can't get out of this store without spending $100.
Back home to work on our talks and to enjoy the weather and do some reading while sitting outside on the deck.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Happy Birthday to brother Gail.
It sure seems lonely here with all the Besties gone home to Chandler. Thank goodness Darrel, Trina and their kids will be here on Sunday.
Today I finished writing my talk for Church on and I typed James's talk for him. His is longer than mine but I told him I had the last say because I speak first. He is speaking on the sacrament and I am speaking on faith in Jesus Christ.
We had clouds and some rain today but we didn't get rained on when we went on our Ranger ride up on the mountain....thank goodness!
We took breaks throughout the day to read from our latest Victoria Holt book "Pride of the Peacock."
It sure seems lonely here with all the Besties gone home to Chandler. Thank goodness Darrel, Trina and their kids will be here on Sunday.
Today I finished writing my talk for Church on and I typed James's talk for him. His is longer than mine but I told him I had the last say because I speak first. He is speaking on the sacrament and I am speaking on faith in Jesus Christ.
We had clouds and some rain today but we didn't get rained on when we went on our Ranger ride up on the mountain....thank goodness!
We took breaks throughout the day to read from our latest Victoria Holt book "Pride of the Peacock."
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Thursday, June 21, 2012
I got a call this morning from my visiting teachers at 9:05 right after I got out of the shower this morning. They wanted to come by for a visit at 9:30. My visiting teachers are Alicia Hunsaker and Linda Price. I love both of them. Sheri, Adrienne, and Christy were working out upstairs to Jillian Michael during our visit. Afterwards while the other girls went to take a shower I introduced Linda and Alicia to Christy and Robyn.
Most of the day we watched Downton Abbey, ate, and took catnaps. Adrienne's carmel corn was a BIG hit. This bowl was totally empty by the time the morning was over.
James had a doctor's appointment in Show Low today. He brought home some Pappa John's pizza, a BBQ chicken and a supreme. It was delicious. After lunch we had to finish Downton Abbey season two. James took Adrienne and Christy on a Ranger ride down Christmas Tree Trail. I took Robyn and Drea yesterday but we didn't have enough gas to go very far. It was sad when everyone left.
Most of the day we watched Downton Abbey, ate, and took catnaps. Adrienne's carmel corn was a BIG hit. This bowl was totally empty by the time the morning was over.
At least she didn't drool!
James had a doctor's appointment in Show Low today. He brought home some Pappa John's pizza, a BBQ chicken and a supreme. It was delicious. After lunch we had to finish Downton Abbey season two. James took Adrienne and Christy on a Ranger ride down Christmas Tree Trail. I took Robyn and Drea yesterday but we didn't have enough gas to go very far. It was sad when everyone left.
Goodbye to the Del Rio 2nd Besties, until next time!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
We slept in after our late night gab fest, but not too late. I made my famous buttermilk pancakes for breakfast along with fresh fruit and turkey bacon. I also made a whole wheat version of the pancakes for James.
After breakfast we may have watched an episode or two of Downton Abbey. In the early afternoon we decided to go to Greer via the Springerville way. When we got to Springerville we were hungry so I looked up what was supposed to be a four star restaurtant called Booga Red's. Like Sheri said, the company was better than the food although the food was pretty good. I had a green chili burro but it didn't compare to the Burger House in Miami.
How did I miss getting a picture of Robin? After lunch we were ready for Greer.
Thanks to Christy for taking some awesome pictures. We parked in the parking lot of The Greer Peaks Lodge owned by our friends Brian and Amy Lemmerman.
After Greer we come back to the cabin and had a delicious dinner. James cooked steaks and we also had sweet potato fries, corn. grilled asparagus and sour dough bread. Now it's time for more Downton Abbey!!
How did I miss getting a picture of Robin? After lunch we were ready for Greer.
After Greer we come back to the cabin and had a delicious dinner. James cooked steaks and we also had sweet potato fries, corn. grilled asparagus and sour dough bread. Now it's time for more Downton Abbey!!
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Another early morning trip to the grocery store in north Scottsdale while the boys sleep in. James was gone early again, this time to help Alex Braddock with his Eagle Project. I washed towels and sheets before leaving the resort because Stacy and Paul and coming over to stay the rest of the week. The boys (Joe, Max, Alex, and Michael) got up and ate some breakfast and we left the resort a little after ten. I took everyone home and then headed for Sears to get my car lubed. I have never experienced such poor customer service in all my life. I know I am used to Lexus where they treat me like a queen but this was ridiculous. There were three guys in the place and I was the only customer and no one could seem to wait on me. A cute girl came in and one of the guys immediately waited on her. She came in way after I did and I complained and the guy waiting on her said: "Oh Phil (to the old guy who can't hear) could you wait on her, pointng to me." They wanted me to take a survey but I told them I was in a hurry and it wouldn't be favorable anyway so that was the end of that. I will only go there again because they are cheap.
While waiting for my car to be lubed I met Sheri, Ben, Evan, and James at the mall for lunch. I had the grilled shrimp tacos from Rubios and they were delicious! After the lube and lunch I went to Costco and picked up some steaks and I was on my way to Vernon. James called me before I got to Payson and said he had just left. He was pulling a trailer with his tractor on it. A few minutes later he called and said he had a blowout just outside of Apache Junction and he needed me to look up a nearby Discount Tire, which I did. (Thank goodness for my iphone).
Because I was falling asleep while driving I stopped at a Circle K and got a diet Dr. Pepper, Good and Plenty candies and some popcorn and I ate and drank my way up the mountain. The smoke from the fire near Young was so bad I had to stop on the Rim and take some pictures. I was so happy to finally arrive at Vernon around 5:30. James called again and said he got stopped in Show Low for not having lights on the trailer. He finally made it around 8:30. Sheri and the gang called and said they were finally leaving around 9pm. They arrived around 12:30. I waited up for them and didn't go to bed until 2 am. The gang: Sheri, Drea Boles, Adrienne Ellsworth, Robyn Rogers, and Christy Wanlass. They call themselves the Del Rio 2nd Besties. What a fun group!
While waiting for my car to be lubed I met Sheri, Ben, Evan, and James at the mall for lunch. I had the grilled shrimp tacos from Rubios and they were delicious! After the lube and lunch I went to Costco and picked up some steaks and I was on my way to Vernon. James called me before I got to Payson and said he had just left. He was pulling a trailer with his tractor on it. A few minutes later he called and said he had a blowout just outside of Apache Junction and he needed me to look up a nearby Discount Tire, which I did. (Thank goodness for my iphone).
Because I was falling asleep while driving I stopped at a Circle K and got a diet Dr. Pepper, Good and Plenty candies and some popcorn and I ate and drank my way up the mountain. The smoke from the fire near Young was so bad I had to stop on the Rim and take some pictures. I was so happy to finally arrive at Vernon around 5:30. James called again and said he got stopped in Show Low for not having lights on the trailer. He finally made it around 8:30. Sheri and the gang called and said they were finally leaving around 9pm. They arrived around 12:30. I waited up for them and didn't go to bed until 2 am. The gang: Sheri, Drea Boles, Adrienne Ellsworth, Robyn Rogers, and Christy Wanlass. They call themselves the Del Rio 2nd Besties. What a fun group!
Friday, June 22, 2012
Monday, June 18, 2012
James left early for a meeting with someone about some work at a golf course. I went out while the boys were still asleep to find a birthday cake for Ruby. I went to the Fry's Marketplace on north Hayden Rd., a very nice store I might add. James's sister Carmen sent the cutest Hello Kitty fondant cutouts for a 9" round cake. The cake I got was a little small but the finished product looked something like this:
Thanks so much Carmen for sharing your talents and making a little girl very happy.
The boys and I went to IHOP for lunch at Alex's request. I had a veggie omlet which was very tasty. The boys got a kick out of a group of older women next to us who were playing some kind of board game. They thought it was funny for them to be in a restaurant playing a game. Alex had biscuits, gravy, bacon and eggs and Michael had the grand slam breakfast with pancakes.
Ruby's party started a 3. Here is a picture of her staring at her cake, which she did for about 30 minutes.
More random pictures of Ruby's party. The most fun was had out in the pool. The following people attended: James and I, Stacy, Joshua, Michael, Kim, and Joe, Sheri, Alex, Ben, Max, and Evan, Darrel, Trina, Ruby, Addy, and Rowan, Trina's Mom Suzy, Lacy and baby Emma, Bryce, Alexus, Kylie, Kayla, and Kreed.
Ruby was very shy when everyone started singing to her.
After the party was over Michael, Alex, Joe, and Max spent the night with us.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
We had a high councilman and his daughter speak in sacrament meeting today. Her name was Brooklyn Brown and she spoke on infinite worth and overcoming adversity. From "Once upon a time to happily everafter" requires some adversity in between. Jesus Christ understands all that we are going through.
Morgan Brown of the high council reminded us of our challenge from the stake president to memorize the family proclomation. He also gave an outstanding talk on charity and used several examples from the Book of Mormon. He admonished us to read and study Moroni 7 where Moroni reminds us that charity is the pure love of Christ.
The lesson in Sunday school taught by Brother Wilhelm was taken from Alma 5-7 where Alma asks: "Have ye Received His Image in Your Countenance?"
The lesson in Relief Society was on missionary work and was taught by Tamara Applegate.
After our meetings we came home and had some lunch. James opened his father's day card from me and his gift, the two Robert Downey, Jr. Sherlock Holmes movies. We took a nap and then got ready and left for the valley. We stopped in Chandler so James could get his truck and to pick up Michael and then we headed for Sheraton Desert Oasis in Scottsdale where Alex was waiting for us. We have one week here in our timeshare and we are staying in rooms 1055 and 1056. Sheri's family stayed last night and we will stay tonight and tomorrow night. Tomorrow we will have Ruby's birthday party here.
Morgan Brown of the high council reminded us of our challenge from the stake president to memorize the family proclomation. He also gave an outstanding talk on charity and used several examples from the Book of Mormon. He admonished us to read and study Moroni 7 where Moroni reminds us that charity is the pure love of Christ.
The lesson in Sunday school taught by Brother Wilhelm was taken from Alma 5-7 where Alma asks: "Have ye Received His Image in Your Countenance?"
The lesson in Relief Society was on missionary work and was taught by Tamara Applegate.
After our meetings we came home and had some lunch. James opened his father's day card from me and his gift, the two Robert Downey, Jr. Sherlock Holmes movies. We took a nap and then got ready and left for the valley. We stopped in Chandler so James could get his truck and to pick up Michael and then we headed for Sheraton Desert Oasis in Scottsdale where Alex was waiting for us. We have one week here in our timeshare and we are staying in rooms 1055 and 1056. Sheri's family stayed last night and we will stay tonight and tomorrow night. Tomorrow we will have Ruby's birthday party here.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Today was a major work day. I changed the sheets on all of the beds today in preparation for next week's company. I cleaned the bathrooms and waxed the upstairs floor. I went to bed quite late. James was a little sad. I did read to him today though from our new Victoria Holt book "The Pride of the Peacock", and made him some chicken enchiladas in the crockpot.
I'm not sure I even went outside today but here is a picture from one of our Ranger rides earlier in the week.
I'm not sure I even went outside today but here is a picture from one of our Ranger rides earlier in the week.
Friday, June 15, 2012
It's official, the monsoon starts today. Hopefully that means we will be getting some rain up here pretty quick. Everything is so dry.
I finished waxing the wood floor in the living room and family room. I am very slow and easily distracted.
James got some good news today from Allied and from Britt Law. It looks like we will be collecting money from both of them. The city of Scottsdale signed a paper saying they never charged Norquay any liquidated damages which means Norquay can't charge us like they said they were going to.
Here is some haze from the Young fire.
I finished waxing the wood floor in the living room and family room. I am very slow and easily distracted.
James got some good news today from Allied and from Britt Law. It looks like we will be collecting money from both of them. The city of Scottsdale signed a paper saying they never charged Norquay any liquidated damages which means Norquay can't charge us like they said they were going to.
Here is some haze from the Young fire.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Happy Birthday Brian and Dallin, I hope you are having a great time in San Diego.
James and I went in to town today and ordered blinds for the two small windows by the front door. We stopped at KFC for dinner. I think I am supporting the Walmart in Show Low with the amount of stuff I buy there.
I gave Jared a call to see if he got one of the houses he was trying to rent. He got the one I liked. The kids and Tricia will be moving out the first week of July.
This evening James and I watched a show on the National Geographic channel called "Untamed Americas." The only problem is I only recorded half of it.
There is a new fire in Arizona 6 miles north of Young. We could see the smoke.
We actually had clouds in the sky today and some stormy like weather although it didn't rain.
James and I went in to town today and ordered blinds for the two small windows by the front door. We stopped at KFC for dinner. I think I am supporting the Walmart in Show Low with the amount of stuff I buy there.
I gave Jared a call to see if he got one of the houses he was trying to rent. He got the one I liked. The kids and Tricia will be moving out the first week of July.
This evening James and I watched a show on the National Geographic channel called "Untamed Americas." The only problem is I only recorded half of it.
There is a new fire in Arizona 6 miles north of Young. We could see the smoke.
We actually had clouds in the sky today and some stormy like weather although it didn't rain.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Kathy brought over the Beehive newspaper this morning. The front cover had pictures of the three Stake Relief Society Presidents in Chandler and the featured story was the Chandler Relief Society centennial celebration. It was fun to read about it and be reminded of what a wonderful evening it was.
Karen Schneider called me today. She had been at a luncheon at Judy Pargetter's and heard about James's heart problems. She called to see how he was doing and to say that next time she would like to be the first to hear about it instead of one of the last. I told her she could read my blog and see my life in a nutshell.
I worked outside today cleaning off the patio and moving some of the tables and chairs off the patio onto the deck because the view is so much better. I also set out some birdseed for the birds although James says most of the birds around here eat bugs, not seed. We shall see. I just remember going to my Nannie's house in Lakeside and she always had a bird feeder and we saw some beautiful birds, cardinals, jays, and orioles are a few I remember.
About six o'clock this evening James and I went on a Ranger ride. When Jared was here he said he saw a mama antelope and her baby up in Gillespie Flat so we headed up that way to see if we could find her. Sure enough the Mamma was sitting right next to the road. When we stopped she got up and walked away. James said she is walking in the opposite direction of where the baby is to throw us off. We started walking in the opposite direction but didn't seen anything. James walked around for awhile but I gave up and turned on Runkeeper and started taking a hike down the road. He came and picked me up after about 10 minutes. What a beautiful setting for a walk, up in the spruce and aspen trees.!
Another picture I took on our ride. It is quite dry right now but there are still some flowers blooming out in the wild. When the rains begin there will be sunflowers everywhere.
Karen Schneider called me today. She had been at a luncheon at Judy Pargetter's and heard about James's heart problems. She called to see how he was doing and to say that next time she would like to be the first to hear about it instead of one of the last. I told her she could read my blog and see my life in a nutshell.
I worked outside today cleaning off the patio and moving some of the tables and chairs off the patio onto the deck because the view is so much better. I also set out some birdseed for the birds although James says most of the birds around here eat bugs, not seed. We shall see. I just remember going to my Nannie's house in Lakeside and she always had a bird feeder and we saw some beautiful birds, cardinals, jays, and orioles are a few I remember.
Another picture I took on our ride. It is quite dry right now but there are still some flowers blooming out in the wild. When the rains begin there will be sunflowers everywhere.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Happy 40th birthday Ian. He and Sheri drove to Cali spend the day on Salt Creek Beach with Elise Hird.
James and I planted our flowers this morning. James planted and I cleared away weeds and rocks. There are rocks everywhere. Maybe we should have a rock garden. I took a picture of this twig sticking out of the ground because there is a bird sitting on top of it. It seems to be her favorite "roosting" spot.
For lunch I made chicken cacciatore from the Four Hundred Calorie Fix cookbook. James loved it. You are supposed to serve it over noodles but he opted to eat it without the noodles which made it more like a soup.
James was so tired from planting flowers this morning that he took a 3 1/2 hour nap and was almost late for his temple recommend interview in Show Low. I went to a Relief Society activity with Kathy Crane this evening at the park. It was a potluck and I took Tricia's strawberry salad with the homemade poppy seed dressing. One sister liked it so much that she took the empty bowl and scraped it clean. She didn't want any of it to go to waste. Janie Huso, a friend from my former Show Low days, did a presentation on the flag for flag day. We said the pledge of allegiance and sang The Star Spangled Banner. I was talking with Janie after the meeting and she was telling funny stories about her dog. She says when she goes to the valley she always stops to get her dog a burger. He loves Burger King and Wendy's but he refuses to eat McDonald's. Janie has a house in Chandler where her son and grandson are living right now. I used to buy shoes from her Mom and her Dad was a state senator.
After our Relief Society meeting Kathy took me on a tour of Vernon showing me where several families in the ward lives. I am grateful to have a friend and Kathy is a good one. She and her husband Chuck just planted their garden. They have onions, potatoes, carrots, lettuce, cucumbers, zucchini, and several different kids of peppers. She is famous for her jalapeno pepper jelly.
James and I planted our flowers this morning. James planted and I cleared away weeds and rocks. There are rocks everywhere. Maybe we should have a rock garden. I took a picture of this twig sticking out of the ground because there is a bird sitting on top of it. It seems to be her favorite "roosting" spot.
For lunch I made chicken cacciatore from the Four Hundred Calorie Fix cookbook. James loved it. You are supposed to serve it over noodles but he opted to eat it without the noodles which made it more like a soup.
James was so tired from planting flowers this morning that he took a 3 1/2 hour nap and was almost late for his temple recommend interview in Show Low. I went to a Relief Society activity with Kathy Crane this evening at the park. It was a potluck and I took Tricia's strawberry salad with the homemade poppy seed dressing. One sister liked it so much that she took the empty bowl and scraped it clean. She didn't want any of it to go to waste. Janie Huso, a friend from my former Show Low days, did a presentation on the flag for flag day. We said the pledge of allegiance and sang The Star Spangled Banner. I was talking with Janie after the meeting and she was telling funny stories about her dog. She says when she goes to the valley she always stops to get her dog a burger. He loves Burger King and Wendy's but he refuses to eat McDonald's. Janie has a house in Chandler where her son and grandson are living right now. I used to buy shoes from her Mom and her Dad was a state senator.
After our Relief Society meeting Kathy took me on a tour of Vernon showing me where several families in the ward lives. I am grateful to have a friend and Kathy is a good one. She and her husband Chuck just planted their garden. They have onions, potatoes, carrots, lettuce, cucumbers, zucchini, and several different kids of peppers. She is famous for her jalapeno pepper jelly.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Note to self: "Never go in to the Show Low Walmart on a Monday. It was insane. At one point I was ready to leave my basket and head back outside but I had some groceries to buy and gifts for Ruby's birthday. I have to be prepared to do all my shopping in one day because the store is so far away. I love to shop for little kids birthdays, especially little girls. I got Ruby a stuffed Hello Kitty, a Dora guitar, and a set of blocks along with some other little things. I came home and put them in the pink "treasure chest" I bought her last week and they look so cool! Carmen(James's sister), has made Hello Kitty fondant and will be sending it this week for Ruby's cake. Her birthday is next Monday and we are having it at Sheraton Desert Oasis Resort in Scottsdale. I can hardly wait. I miss my grandkids!
I am a little worried about James. He seems to have shortness of breath, dizziness and he gets extremely tired. He takes long naps in the afternoon. He has made some major changes in his eating habits and cut way down on his carbs because he wants to get healthy again. I wish I could say the same for me.
Today while we were in town James bought some flowers and a lilac bush for us to plant in the front planters. We have talked about doing a garden but decided it was too late this year.
I am a little worried about James. He seems to have shortness of breath, dizziness and he gets extremely tired. He takes long naps in the afternoon. He has made some major changes in his eating habits and cut way down on his carbs because he wants to get healthy again. I wish I could say the same for me.
Today while we were in town James bought some flowers and a lilac bush for us to plant in the front planters. We have talked about doing a garden but decided it was too late this year.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Sunday, June 10, 2012
I wasn't sure if James was feeling up to going to church, but he was. He hates to miss church. Of course Jared went with us. Judy Hunter and Dave Westbrook were the speakers in sacrament meeting. Judy spoke on how to have peace in our lives and Dave talked about temptations. Dave was in Iraq for 5 1/2 years and told some interesting stories about his experiences there.
The lesson in Sunday School was about Alma becoming the first chief judge. In Relief Society Linda Tanner taught lesson 11 from the George Albert Smith manual on revelation. Sister Swansey, the new convert, told of an experience she had before she joined the church and was struggling with some word of wisdom concerns. She was on her way to Show Low and was thinking about telling the missionaries she didn't want to give up her cigars, bourbon, and coffee when she heard a voice say: "You can do this." She was alone in the car and she knew she hadn't spoken. The experience was so profound she called her husband and told him she had received revelation. She stopped that very day from smoking cigars, and drinking coffee and bourbon. She said that coffee was the hardest for her to give up.
After church Jared had some lunch with us and did some laundry and was on his way back to El Paso. I sent Tricia's birthday card with him. He is going home to Frisco for Father's Day next week. It will take him 5 1/2 hours to get back to El Paso. I told him to call me when he arrived safely and he did.
The lesson in Sunday School was about Alma becoming the first chief judge. In Relief Society Linda Tanner taught lesson 11 from the George Albert Smith manual on revelation. Sister Swansey, the new convert, told of an experience she had before she joined the church and was struggling with some word of wisdom concerns. She was on her way to Show Low and was thinking about telling the missionaries she didn't want to give up her cigars, bourbon, and coffee when she heard a voice say: "You can do this." She was alone in the car and she knew she hadn't spoken. The experience was so profound she called her husband and told him she had received revelation. She stopped that very day from smoking cigars, and drinking coffee and bourbon. She said that coffee was the hardest for her to give up.
After church Jared had some lunch with us and did some laundry and was on his way back to El Paso. I sent Tricia's birthday card with him. He is going home to Frisco for Father's Day next week. It will take him 5 1/2 hours to get back to El Paso. I told him to call me when he arrived safely and he did.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Saturday, June 9, 2012
We played the waiting game this morning. James was anxious to get out of the hospital but of course we had to wait for the doctor and an echogram. When Dr. Memon came in he ask James to take 10 laps around the hospital corridor to try out his new stent. As we were taking our laps the technician came to do the echogram so we stopped at four, but I am sure James could have done ten. Dr. Memon told us we would be out by noon and he was almost exactly right. Our first stop on the way home was Walgreen's to pick up a new prescription. We went by the house to say our goodbye's to Stacy and Sheri and then we were on our way. Jared is at the cabin waiting for us. We stopped in Miami at the Burger House and picked up 6 green chili mixed burros, two for each of us, including Jared. Jared is the person who told us about Burger House originally. They have the best green chili burros on the planet. If you get them with beans they are not quite as hot, so that's what we do most of the time.
It felt good to be back in Vernon where the weather is so nice. Jared said he went on a Ranger ride to Green's Peak and was going to hike up but it was too windy. Jared fixed us dinner: grilled chicken, grilled asparagus and a Caesars salad and sour dough bread. Yummy! Thank you Jared.
It was so nice to visit with Jared. He showed me pictures of the two houses they are looking at to rent in El Paso. They are both older but very nice with lots of room and each of them has a pool. I liked the first one the best. We watched some TV and went to bed. James was very tired.
It felt good to be back in Vernon where the weather is so nice. Jared said he went on a Ranger ride to Green's Peak and was going to hike up but it was too windy. Jared fixed us dinner: grilled chicken, grilled asparagus and a Caesars salad and sour dough bread. Yummy! Thank you Jared.
It was so nice to visit with Jared. He showed me pictures of the two houses they are looking at to rent in El Paso. They are both older but very nice with lots of room and each of them has a pool. I liked the first one the best. We watched some TV and went to bed. James was very tired.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Friday, June 8, 2012
The third and final day of making cinnamon rolls. This batch turned out the best yet, well at least they looked the best, I didn't actually taste them. Right in the middle of making these rolls I got a call from James. He said he was at his cardiologist appointment with Dr. Memon and the doctor was sending him straight to the hospital. He said he should not be having chest pains with the medication he is on. They are going to do an angioplasty and possibly put a stint in. I hurried and finished my cinnamon rolls which were for a dessert auction tonight at the Navajo Taco dinner to raise money for girls' camp. I made arrangements for my neighbor Kathy Crane to take my c-rolls to the dinner. I left Vernon around 1:30 and headed for Gilbert Mercy, the hospital where James was admitted. I got there around 5:25 (made several stops) and just missed seeing James before they took him back. Our family really came to the rescue today. Dave and Terry gave James a blessing. Lois, Dawn, Dave, Laura, and Terry stayed with him for about three hours until Stacy, Paul, Sheri, Kim, got there. I'm just sad I didn't make it there in time to see him before he went in to surgery. When the surgery was over Dr. Memon came in and told us he had a 99% blockage in an artery difficult to see, behind the heart. Darrel, Stacy and I went back with Dr. Memon to the room off of the surgery room and he showed everything to us on video. It was amazing. Dr. Memon made the comment that someone is looking after James from up above. We couldn't agree more. This evening our friend from Del Rio 2nd, Judy Pargetter came by for a visit. She stayed a couple of hours and helped me find bedding for the couch in James's room (Rm 2011) where I will be sleeping tonight. Judy has been the caregiver for her husband for the past 2 or 3 years. We love her. She said she put James's name on 5 temples and Allen, her husband, gathered their family around and they all said a prayer for him. We are blessed to have such wonderful family and friends!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Day #2 of making cinnamon rolls. This batch turned out much better than yesterday's. I made sure the yeast was activated by checking the temperature of the water and putting a little sugar in the water. You know the yeast is working if it gets bubbly.
My other big accomplishment of the day was dusting all of the blinds in the house.
Today is Harold & Vickie's wedding anniversary. They were married one year after we were so it's #43. I tried to call Vickie but it went straight to voice mail so I left a message wishing her and Harold a Happy Anniversary.
The most fun thing I did today was go on a Ranger ride. James doesn't think I should go when I am here by myself in case something happens but I was getting cabin fever and needed to get out. I drove about 12 miles to Gillespie Flat and did not see one other person. It was awesome! I love having the forest right in our back yard!
I came home and fell asleep watching The Finder. James called me several times today and I called him. I am so anxious for his return tomorrow.
My other big accomplishment of the day was dusting all of the blinds in the house.
Today is Harold & Vickie's wedding anniversary. They were married one year after we were so it's #43. I tried to call Vickie but it went straight to voice mail so I left a message wishing her and Harold a Happy Anniversary.
The most fun thing I did today was go on a Ranger ride. James doesn't think I should go when I am here by myself in case something happens but I was getting cabin fever and needed to get out. I drove about 12 miles to Gillespie Flat and did not see one other person. It was awesome! I love having the forest right in our back yard!
I came home and fell asleep watching The Finder. James called me several times today and I called him. I am so anxious for his return tomorrow.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
I went to bed early last night so I could get up at 4am and do my gospel study. At 7am James and I started out on a walk. He went about half a mile or so and was in so much pain he turned around after sitting on the ground for awhile and went back. I went 3 miles. I was tired and sore afterwards so I took a bath in the jacuzzi tub.
James heard from our attorney in the Norquay lawsuit. We mailed him a 6 page information sheet regarding the job we did for them on Monday. James wrote it out and I did the typing. After looking at it they are pretty sure we will be able to recover some of the money they owe us. It was the first time the attorney has been so optimistic. James spent several hours today sending him copies of emails between him and Norquay.
I tried to make a batch of cinnamon rolls but the yeast didn't rise. I determined that I didn't get it hot enough. The rolls were still good but they were more of the consistency of biscuits than rolls.
James left to go home around 6pm. He has a doctor's appointment tomorrow, he is working on cleaning off Nate's lot, and he needs to look at the pool. There was a problem with it earlier in the week. The pump went off. Paul got it to working again but not before some algae grew. He also needs to meet with Zaki about building his house. I was sad when he left because he seemed sad and I could tell he didn't want to go.
I was lonely this evening.
James heard from our attorney in the Norquay lawsuit. We mailed him a 6 page information sheet regarding the job we did for them on Monday. James wrote it out and I did the typing. After looking at it they are pretty sure we will be able to recover some of the money they owe us. It was the first time the attorney has been so optimistic. James spent several hours today sending him copies of emails between him and Norquay.
I tried to make a batch of cinnamon rolls but the yeast didn't rise. I determined that I didn't get it hot enough. The rolls were still good but they were more of the consistency of biscuits than rolls.
James left to go home around 6pm. He has a doctor's appointment tomorrow, he is working on cleaning off Nate's lot, and he needs to look at the pool. There was a problem with it earlier in the week. The pump went off. Paul got it to working again but not before some algae grew. He also needs to meet with Zaki about building his house. I was sad when he left because he seemed sad and I could tell he didn't want to go.
I was lonely this evening.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
James and I made a trip into town today. It proved to be very costly. Our first stop was El Rancho. We both got green chili burros only James got his with beans. They were good but nothing like the Burger House. I ate half and was going to take the other half home but I went off and left it. Darn! I hate wasting good food.
Our next stop was Walmart. I sent James to get birthday cards for Dallin, Brian, and Ian and a sympathy card for LaMont Ball. His son Karl passed away on Saturday. He had cancer and was the same age as Stacy. They used to live next door to us.
Our ward is having a Navajo taco fundraiser dinner for girls camp on Friday evening and they are also having a desert auction. I volunteered to bring a dessert to auction off. The other day while watching Paula Deen she made some yummy looking cinnamon rolls so I decided that is what I wanted to make. I bought the ingredients for the cinnamon rolls and some non-food items. When I went to check out I got restaurant gift cards for Brian, Ian and Tricia and some cash for Dallin. I was appalled at what my total was. James had gone to the McDonald's to get me a drink so he didn't see and I didn't tell him.
This evening James and I went for a walk. It was a short one because James was in so much pain. We went on a Ranger ride and he felt much better!
Our next stop was Walmart. I sent James to get birthday cards for Dallin, Brian, and Ian and a sympathy card for LaMont Ball. His son Karl passed away on Saturday. He had cancer and was the same age as Stacy. They used to live next door to us.
Our ward is having a Navajo taco fundraiser dinner for girls camp on Friday evening and they are also having a desert auction. I volunteered to bring a dessert to auction off. The other day while watching Paula Deen she made some yummy looking cinnamon rolls so I decided that is what I wanted to make. I bought the ingredients for the cinnamon rolls and some non-food items. When I went to check out I got restaurant gift cards for Brian, Ian and Tricia and some cash for Dallin. I was appalled at what my total was. James had gone to the McDonald's to get me a drink so he didn't see and I didn't tell him.
This evening James and I went for a walk. It was a short one because James was in so much pain. We went on a Ranger ride and he felt much better!
Monday, June 4, 2012
Happy 7th Birthday Emmy! I called Emmy today and wished her a happy birthday. When I asked her what she liked best in her birthday box she thought for awhile and said: "The bouncy balls!" (Oh, you mean the ones that cost less than a dollar?)
Harold, Vickie, and Madison are in Washington state. Harold and Vickie take their grandkids on a trip when they graduate from the 8th grade. Madison wanted to go to Seattle and to Forks to see where Twilight was filmed. I know this because Vickie called me on Friday to wish me a Happy Anniversary. I wish we could take our grandkids on a trip...this year that would be Michael and Alex. I feel like a slacker grandma.
We went on a Ranger ride today. James showed me "The Village." Alex, Ben and Joe were talking about it when they were here. It is an old abandoned Boy Scout camp, A-frame cabins, outhouse, and all.
For FHE James and I watched Wendy DeWitt's DVD on food storage. We were both very impressed with her system. She is in the Vernon ward during the summer and I have wanted to talk to her but I am a little intimidated. She will be my "contact" this week. I knew her husband Collin when I was growing up in Phoenix. We were in the same ward. I remember him but he doesn't remember me. I remember him because I liked the name Collin and because I thought he was cute.
Harold, Vickie, and Madison are in Washington state. Harold and Vickie take their grandkids on a trip when they graduate from the 8th grade. Madison wanted to go to Seattle and to Forks to see where Twilight was filmed. I know this because Vickie called me on Friday to wish me a Happy Anniversary. I wish we could take our grandkids on a trip...this year that would be Michael and Alex. I feel like a slacker grandma.
We went on a Ranger ride today. James showed me "The Village." Alex, Ben and Joe were talking about it when they were here. It is an old abandoned Boy Scout camp, A-frame cabins, outhouse, and all.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
James and I both bore our testimonies in our new ward. I have challenged myself to introduce myself to at least one new person each week. Today I met Bridget Jordan. She said her name was easy to remember. Just think of a bridge over the river Jordan. Clever.
Brother Peeler taught Sunday School. He is the stake Sunday School president. Rosie Lauritzen taught Relief Society. I am her visiting teacher and I really like her.
I am now officially a visiting teacher although I don't know my partner and I only know one of the sisters I visit. I also have a visiting teacher. Her name is Linda Price. She is from Gilbert and is only here for the summer. She and her husband built an apartment off their home where their daughter now lives so they have their privacy when they return to the valley. I wish we could do that!
We broke our fast right after our meetings since we started early yesterday afternoon. We fasted that we will be able to collect the money Norquay owes us.
I made pork chops with stuffing for dinner. It is a receipe I got when I was a Tricia's. James really liked everything except for the apples in the stuffing. Next time no apples.
I watched 3 TV shows this evening; Adele Live in London, Cupcake Champions, and The Next Foodnetwork Star.
Brother Peeler taught Sunday School. He is the stake Sunday School president. Rosie Lauritzen taught Relief Society. I am her visiting teacher and I really like her.
I am now officially a visiting teacher although I don't know my partner and I only know one of the sisters I visit. I also have a visiting teacher. Her name is Linda Price. She is from Gilbert and is only here for the summer. She and her husband built an apartment off their home where their daughter now lives so they have their privacy when they return to the valley. I wish we could do that!
We broke our fast right after our meetings since we started early yesterday afternoon. We fasted that we will be able to collect the money Norquay owes us.
I made pork chops with stuffing for dinner. It is a receipe I got when I was a Tricia's. James really liked everything except for the apples in the stuffing. Next time no apples.
I watched 3 TV shows this evening; Adele Live in London, Cupcake Champions, and The Next Foodnetwork Star.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Saturday, June 2, 2012
I had a green chili mixed burro from The Burger House for breakfast. Food of the gods! James brought me two. I am saving one for tomorrow after church when we break our fast.
James has two things hanging over his head right now. One is the Norquay lawsuit and the other is getting Zaki's contract on his house ready to send in to the bank. He has to have information sent in to the attorney for the Norquay case by 8am Monday morning and Zaki's information has to be in to the bank by noon on Monday. We still had time to celebrate our anniversary by reading from our Victoria Holt book and going on a Ranger ride.
Brian posted on Facebook today that Arizona was the lone and dreary world so we were trying to prove him wrong with these pictures:
We started our fast today right after lunch. The Crane's called us and asked us to go to the spaghetti dinner at the park with them but we had to decline because we had already started our fast.
We ended the day by watching an episode from Sherlock. I am afraid I slept through most of it.
James has two things hanging over his head right now. One is the Norquay lawsuit and the other is getting Zaki's contract on his house ready to send in to the bank. He has to have information sent in to the attorney for the Norquay case by 8am Monday morning and Zaki's information has to be in to the bank by noon on Monday. We still had time to celebrate our anniversary by reading from our Victoria Holt book and going on a Ranger ride.
Brian posted on Facebook today that Arizona was the lone and dreary world so we were trying to prove him wrong with these pictures:
We ended the day by watching an episode from Sherlock. I am afraid I slept through most of it.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Friday, June 1, 2012
I woke up to this wildlife scene outside my bedroom window and deck:
Happy 44th wedding anniversary to James and I. He got here late this afternoon and the celebration began as he cooked us steaks from Sam's Club. They are the delicious, expensive filets. I grilled some asparagus and we had a delicious meal.
After dinner we read and then watched The Mentalist. I still can't decide if I like this show or not. I like the characters but the endings always leave you hanging.
After dinner we read and then watched The Mentalist. I still can't decide if I like this show or not. I like the characters but the endings always leave you hanging.
Some random pictures taken around Vernon:
Can you find the butterfly in this picture.
Yes those are waterfalls. This was taken near Chocolate Lake.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
James and I decided that since I he wouldn't be back until late on our anniversary that we would celebrate on Saturday. I decided I am going to make him a special dinner so I went in to Walmart to buy the ingredients. I am going to make Pork Chops with Apple Stuffing. It's a receipe that I got from Tricia when I was in Texas. Note to self: Take less trips to Walmart. Every time I go I spend at least $100!
I came home and put some boxes downstairs and unloaded a couple of boxes. I realize how out of shape I am. Just going up and down the stairs I was so out of breath! Starting on Monday I am going to start walking again.
I watched Giada and the Barefoot Contessa and Paula Deen on the Foodnetwork. I went to bed at 9pm. I was very tired and I do miss James!
I came home and put some boxes downstairs and unloaded a couple of boxes. I realize how out of shape I am. Just going up and down the stairs I was so out of breath! Starting on Monday I am going to start walking again.
I watched Giada and the Barefoot Contessa and Paula Deen on the Foodnetwork. I went to bed at 9pm. I was very tired and I do miss James!
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
After reading our scriptures and having prayer and reading from our Victoria Holt novel, James left for Chandler, which means I will be here alone until he gets back on Friday evening. He is going down to help Alex Braddock with his Eagle Scout project, to clear off Nathan's lot, and to finish cleaning his office. I could have gone with him but I wanted to stay here and get some things put away and to enjoy the quiet and beautiful surroundings. I also watched several episodes of America's Got Talent. I am fascinated with Sharon Osbourne's hair. Don't ask me why. Boy you sure have to watch alot of hokey acts to see a few that really reflect some talent. One of my favorites was a father and daughter who sang together. The girl had a wonderful voice. They are street performers and it would be wonderful if they could become more successful. The audience and judges also loved them. Howard Stern is the new judge taking Pierce Morgan's place. I didn't think I would like him at all, but he has some redeeming qualities and I like him better than Pierce. I also like Nick Cannon, the host. The show is goofy, and I don't know why I watch it. I guess I just keep thinking I'm going to see some real talent. I also watched So You Think You Can Dance which is still in the tryout phase. I got a kick out of the Ninja twins and was surprised when they turned them down because they were a couple of years over the age limit. I wonder if we have seen the end of them. They were very popular and highly entertaining.
Stacy called today and said she was taking Paul to the hospital because he was very sick. The doctor's think he might have chron's disease or an ulcer. He went home but he has to go see a specialist.
Stacy called today and said she was taking Paul to the hospital because he was very sick. The doctor's think he might have chron's disease or an ulcer. He went home but he has to go see a specialist.
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