Little Nanni

Joy in Performance Mode

2011-10-29T17:23:00.001-07:00

Intense Focus

2011-10-29T17:21:00.001-07:00

Ava!

2011-10-29T17:19:00.000-07:00

Playin baseball

2011-10-29T17:17:00.001-07:00

Marci and I are watching Weston and Gabe while Andrew and Michelle are at a leadership retreat. The kids are playing soooo well together and we are surely loving this time.

Meet MacDaddy!

2011-04-23T21:36:00.000-07:00

An Open Door!

2011-04-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

I watched the girls last week from Wednesday noon till Saturday when Jon and 
Marci returned from KC. 

Joy and Ava spent 4 1/2 days at Bob & Sue's and then I picked them up for the 
last part of the week. 

We had a great time playing outside while the neighbor's huge dog continually 
barked and Ava practically lived at the fence watching him. 

Joy and I did an Easter treat craft one day while Ava napped. 

I took them to Applebees one night and then on a quick Target run. 

Ava woke up at 1:00 am Saturday with a 102.7 fever, even though she was on an 
antibiotic already for an ear infection! (Hmmm???)

One night, after Joy's bath, we played "nail salon". She was the client and I 
was "Alicia".  We had picked up some Hello Kitty nail polish while at Target. It 
came in an assortment pack with several colors, some even had glitter. 
As she arrived at the "salon" I told her, "choose your color".  I trimmed 
her nails and did a little massage and then she chose a Bubble Gum color for her 
feet, and a Hot Pink for her hands

On Sunday, Marci had everyone over to celebrate Jon's birthday. We had a very 
nice dinner. 

Joy chimed right in with the adult conversation, and here's a video to prove it!

Ava begging for that big dog

2011-04-18T11:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday Morning Smiles!

2011-04-09T22:10:00.000-07:00

Michelle sent me this picture this morning. I simply LOVE IT!!!

Look at Weston!!!! He looks soooo grown up!!! Just makes me want to kiss that little face!! The other 2 faces are pretty special to me too!! :):):)

Gabriel and his Feet!!

2011-04-09T22:07:00.000-07:00

Look at this cutie!!!

This was taken just this week.
Michelle and Andrew have been busy getting ready to move. They also get to go to visit their friends in North Carolina soon.

The first part of June Marci, Jon and the girls along with Andrew, Michelle, the boys and I are heading to Disneyland! Looking forward to watching all these little ones have fun!

Princ'ss crowns, pj's & dress up!

2011-04-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

Marci's going to shoot me for posting this, but....I just gotta!

Ava's been sick and it's been a rough week. Yesterday afternoon I was over there and next thing I know we're all wearing crowns! Joy had her little mermaid dress on. We danced to the kiddie tunes on the music channel and although all 4 of us had crowns on, there were still crowns in Joy's armoir, just in case any of you would have dropped by and wanted to join in the fun!

Frosting Nanni's B-Day Cake

2011-04-09T21:52:00.000-07:00

About a week before my birthday, Marci asked me what kind of cake I wanted. Nothing really came to mind, so I did a little research.

Last year, Marci made me that gorgeous Reece's Peanut Butter topped cake. It was Yummy! Rich, but yummy!!

I have a carrot cake recipe that I simply LOVE, but I think it tastes best when the leaves are colored and falling!

So, I found a recipe for a banana cake that had rave reviews.

I emailed it to Marci. Both Joy and Jon asked her what kind of cake I had decided on. When she told them, she said both of their faces fell!! Wasn't quite what either of them would have chosen apparently. Jon added a few grunting sounds to his expressions! Joy not so secretly was hoping for chocolate.

Well, the recipe didn't look all that different or unique; BUT.....it turned out to be VERY good. So good in fact that it got thumbs up from both Jon and Joy!

I'll post the recipe soon and if you'd like you can try it yourselves.

Thank you Marci and Joy for an awesome cake.

Joy

2011-04-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

Hmmm... Wonder where she gets her "let's ham it up personality!"

Status Report: March 4

2011-03-04T08:14:00.000-08:00

Sitting...at my computer in my comfy chair. The one where my feet touch the floor! (imagine the comfort!)

Where...#2, the apartment. Yea, the one that Julia and I moved to 1 month ago, cuz the rules at our 55 and older subdivision clearly specify no one under 45 can live there. Thankful to God that Paul and I are able to rent an apartment for this 8 month stretch till Julia goes to college, plus we get to keep our home in that 55 and older community!

Drinking...Black coffee, of course. It's only 8:00 am! After I brush my teeth, I'll switch to my beverage of choice for the remainder of the day; iced tea. (Yea baby)

Dreading...Going to my first Weight Watchers meeting this morning and "weighing in". I'm afraid there'll be an earthquake in California when I get on those scales. Haven't dieted or even been careful in AGES!

Preparing...for Sunday morning. My testimony is written and turned in. I've spent a lot of time recalling where and who I was prior to 3.5 years ago. I'm being baptized this Sunday. My life has changed, priorities calibrated to the Gospel; outlook completely different.....All because I now see a Savior who loved me enough to be torn, scourged, beaten and crucified in order that I may be free.

Figuring out... how to get my car's AC fixed before I leave for S. Cal next week, when to deal with the other car issue, (the one I can't write about until I've talked to my husband about it. :) Who to talk to at the college next week, what to include on the nacho bar Marci and I are serving Saturday night when Andrew & Michelle are here for a quick 24 hour visit; how I'm gonna finish this post and get myself to Weight Watchers! Lol!

Thankful...For God's providing and leading my family's lives. Our Sovereign God knows All, is All and continues to amaze me with His grace.

Excited for...that new ipad coming out March 11th. Yes, I can't wait. (well, really in the scheme of things, I really can...but it's gonna be awesome)

Remember when faxes weren't "plain paper?"

2011-02-24T07:04:00.000-08:00

Three Ladies in a Sauna
THREE WOMEN, TWO YOUNGER, AND ONE SENIOR CITIZEN, WERE SITTING IN A SAUNA.
SUDDENLY THERE WAS A BEEPING SOUND. THE YOUNG WOMAN PRESSED HER FOREARM AND THE BEEP STOPPED.
THE OTHERS LOOKED AT HER QUESTIONINGLY. "THAT WAS MY PAGER," SHE SAID. "I HAVE A MICROCHIP UNDER THE SKIN OF MY ARM."
A FEW MINUTES LATER, A PHONE RANG. THE SECOND YOUNG WOMAN LIFTED HER PALM TO HER EAR.
WHEN SHE FINISHED, SHE EXPLAINED, "THAT WAS MY MOBILE PHONE. I HAVE A MICROCHIP IN MY HAND."
THE OLDER WOMAN FELT VERY LOW-TECH. NOT TO BE OUT DONE, SHE DECIDED SHE HAD TO DO SOMETHING JUST AS IMPRESSIVE. SHE STEPPED OUT OF THE SAUNA AND WENT TO THE BATHROOM.
SHE RETURNED WITH A PIECE OF TOILET PAPER HANGING FROM HER REAR END.
THE OTHERS RAISED THEIR EYEBROWS AND STARED AT HER.
THE OLDER WOMAN FINALLY SAID.........."WELL, WILL YOU LOOK AT THAT......I'M GETTING A FAX!!"

Just dreamin bout my new haircut

2011-02-08T13:11:00.000-08:00

The past few weeks have been interesting, challenging and a little exhausting.

A few weeks ago I NEEDED my hair cut but it didn't happen.

I'm now sitting in the chair in the salon and on my way to blissdom. Yes, blissdom. That's what a haircut does for me. Stay tuned

Same area. Later this afternoon

2011-02-01T15:10:00.000-08:00

I don't know about y'all, but I don't see any other cars, or people for that matter in this picture.

But you know the picture was taken by Jon with him in the driver's seat of that car!

Country Club Plaza KC MO today

2011-02-01T14:29:00.001-08:00

This photo from a slightly different vantage point than the one below. It's the view Marci and Jon have through one of their windows of the Plaza. It's beautiful to look at! Just not real easy to maneuver in :)

Winter Storms

2011-02-01T14:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm in California, but Marci & Jon are in Kansas City.
Jon had to go to a class this week and Marci was fortunate to be able to go with him.
Joy and Ava are safe in California and are being cared for by us grandparents, who are taking shifts.

This photo overlooking Country Club Plaza in Kansas City is a few years old. I don't profess to it being a very good picture; just a snapshot taken from the condo one spring day to get an idea of the view.

Well, Marci and Jon are staying in the building just in front where this picture was taken. They are experiencing the incredible mid-west storm and they'll never forget this trip, I'm sure.

It's actually been quite fun for me to hear about all the places they have been, which I'm so familiar with. But their trip and galavanting around has slowed down to a snail's pace now. The biggest concern now is Jon getting to and from class 1 mile away today and tomorrow.

In order for you to see just what this area looks like today, in the midst of the storm, I'm going to post a picture that Jon texted me earlier today.

2011-01-16T23:42:00.000-08:00

Well Happy New Year........yea, just 16 days late into the year, I know.

These are my cuties. Yep, right here, all 4 of them taken on or about January 3rd.

Jon got the camera out and Andrew & Michelle and Marci helped round up the kids and get them dressed for their photo shoot :)

I had all 8 of my kids around from December 17 thru January 4th.

We celebrated Christmas of course, as well as Joy's 1st dance recital, New Year's Eve, a trip to Hula's in Escalon for our traditional milk shake run. A few side trips to shop and go to a doctor or two. We all took turns wiping lots of little behinds, cleaning precious curious hands, and boy did we wash lots of sippy cups. I got to hold Gabriel often and Weston not so much; (he's pretty independent!) although if I could sneak him a biscotti cookie, I found he would sit on my lap for 30 minutes plus. (I got caught trying to give him a cookie just before Christmas dinner, so had to nix the dreamy vision I had of he and I snuggling while the others ate :(

On Thursday the 30th, Michelle cooked 6 of us a meal as a "Thank You" for helping her out while she was on bed rest with Gabriel. Wow!!! We started off with the table set, and the kids were all in bed, (meaning it was nice and quiet, lol!) She had made these beautiful salad/cheese plates for each of us; a few romaine leaves, champagne cheese, another cheese I can't remember the name of, all garnished with blackberries and pomegranate seeds and garlic toasts. Next came our entrees. Port marinated fillets of beef, that were oh so "to die for". A medley of yummy asparagus and some tiny brussel sprouts. Oh,,, and a fabulous risotto!!!! Can you say, "C O M F O R T"? Honestly, I can't remember the dessert! I was too stuffed with the yummy food.

We had wanted to go to Wente Winery in Livermore while they were here, but with the holidays, some runny nosed kids, and a nursing mother, we decided to do that next time they come for a visit. After the beautiful meal Michelle made, we didn't miss Wente a bit!

With Christmas trees, gifts, food, children, car seats, strollers, pac n play's etc, it was close quarters for Marci & Jon and Andrew & Michelle----but we're SERIOUSLY counting the months till they can come back and we can all be together again.

I truly feel like the wealthiest woman in the world to be able to share, to love, to trust, and to enjoy my all my kids the way I do. I'm sooooo thankful to God for His great blessings in my life!

"A Whole New Way Of Music"

2010-12-09T12:48:00.000-08:00

2010-12-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

Check out this video on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9XNfWNooz4&feature=youtube_gdata_player

This is Awesome if you're a "techy". Some people wouldn't agree, but I happen to appreciate any way of playing music!

How did we get to December 8th, 2010 so fast?!

2010-12-08T11:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, I really am still alive.

Even I've pinched myself to see if I'm still here.

Looking forward to getting back to "the blog" real soon.

Have had lots of changes, but they are ALL good!

I've just needed some time to myself to reflect, settle in and find my new normal.

Julia has moved in with me and I'm LOVING it!!! It has changed so much for me, but has given me time to stick closer to home in between So Cal visits to Andrew & Michelle's and going to La Quinta for Thanksgiving.

This is just a little teaser post, I guess you'd say.......

More to come soon!

Joy liked Santa this year!

2010-12-01T19:27:00.000-08:00

Ava...not so much!!

2010-12-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

Daddy loving Gabe

2010-11-13T10:37:00.000-08:00

Well, the little family is home. They arrived yesterday afternoon.

Weston isn't too interested in his brother.

Gabe slept 4.5 hrs between feedings last night and is sleeping in his Moses basket right now in the living room.

Michelle feels better today than yesterday.

The weather here is great. Andrew took Weston to the park for a long walk this morning.

Nanni is going home tomorrow and Omi is coming to take her turn helping out and bonding.

Ava meeting Gabriel

2010-11-13T10:32:00.000-08:00

Gabriel & Great Great Auntie Sharon

2010-11-11T16:40:00.000-08:00

Happy Boy!

2010-11-10T13:59:00.000-08:00

Here he is today. I haven't been to the hospital yet, but I'm up next!!

He's here!!!

2010-11-09T23:47:00.000-08:00

Gabriel Ray Gutierrez was born this evening by C-Section. He weighed 5 lbs, 11 oz, and was 18.5 inches long.

Nanni Auntie, & Joy & Ava drove down as soon as we got the news that today was the day. We picked up Weston at his house on our way to the hospital, & he has now personally met his baby brother. Nanni got hold her 4th grandchild in 4 years!

More later!!

What Do I WEAR?????????????????

2010-09-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

PHOTO COURTESY: BITTEN AND BOUND

Ok, so.....I've been invited, along with Marci to join Alicia and Debbie to see Carrie Underwood tonight!

Here's the picture I see in my head everytime I hear Carrie's name. Yep, a while back she received some award (I'm sure after tonight, I'll know just what award that was) and this was what she wore to the awards ceremony.

I can't tell you what her most popular songs are, or much about her.......but I can always describe her in this dress. Absolutely Beautiful!!!! in my opinion. Total CLASS!

Ok, so by now you know, this will be my first "country music" concert to ever attend. Kinda strange when you really think about it, considering I grew up in the Rodeo Capitol of the world!!! Yep! it's true. Oakdale boasts this title.

Ok, so here's where I'm going with this: Alicia and her mom were chatting late on Saturday night, and thought we should all 4 go to this concert tonight. So they get on the phone, call Marci at 11:00 pm, who calls me and asks me if I wanna go. Hmmmmm, well, "Why Not?"

Now, you gotta know, I've been in cleaning, organizing, focusing mode here at home for the past couple of weeks. Furthermore, other than going to church, I don't know that last time I got "gussied up". (you can detect a bit of "cowgirl talk" from my bringin up years in some of my vocabulary) Plus, I think I'm a "plus size", or at least I feel like that now. Yea, not too happy with the weight issue. Add these to the fact that we're going with Alicia and Debbie. Uh oh...... Alicia and Debbie!?! Yea, these two are queens of shopping for clothes and puttin it all together and lookin like Carrie herself.

Last time Alicia went to see Carrie, let's just say she took quite a bit of pains to get her outfit, makeup, etc just so. We're talking Alicia here. She's an estetician , so this stuff comes as easily for her as lickin powdered sugar off a plate comes for me.

Now, it's not helping my "what to wear dilema" today that Marci has been invited to go to Alicia's shop & get her makeup done for tonight! Nor is it helping that 6 months ago, Marci and I were about the same size, and now, she's lost quite a bit of weight. (Misery certainly does love company you know) So, I'm feelin like the fat grandma that needs her roots touched up, a pedicure, and a magician today.

But wait.......there's more to life than how I look right? Yea, and we're going to have lots of fun.....no matter what I look like. I'm thinkin I'm takin my camera and will be takin the pictures of the 3 of them. Should work out just fine!

Two Handsome Guys!!!

2010-09-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

Marci & Jon are in Pismo this weekend. Jon was JC's preceptor a few years ago while JC did his internship to become a paramedic. There've been quite a few people that Jon has acted as preceptor for over the past 8 years.

JC's getting married today and asked Jon to marry he and his fiancé.

I gotta say, it's been probably around 10 years ago when Marci & Jon met. Lotsa water under the bridge since that era.

Jon just had his 8 yr anniversary as a paramedic, and posted on FB recently some of the positives and negatives he's learned & experienced. Amongst some of them was a fateful day when he and one of his partner buddies played a practical joke while @ work. Let's just say it didn't go over so well; and there was a price to pay. This was just a couple of months before Marci & Jon got married. I remember the day of their wedding KNOWING they'd probably have a great marriage. Boy that is just the way a parent wants to feel; a true blessing. But that practical joke kinda made for some rough days; & I'm sure Jon learned a bunch through that time.

Fast forward to today.....a man of much maturity....and still working and growing to always improve himself. No one really understands unless you're in the inner circle what all Jon does at work. Not to mention all he does for his family, including me.

So here's a look at the handsome guy on the LEFT, and a son in law I love and appreciate!!!

Al fresco dining

2010-09-25T14:24:00.000-07:00

Here's a pic I got from Michelle yesterday. Weston LOVES to be outside. I'm guessing that this was taken after his morning nap. Look at this good looking kid!!!! Wow, he's going to be a heart breaker I'm sure when he gets older!

Sweetie Pie!

2010-09-24T09:20:00.000-07:00

Ok. Yes it's been 4-ever since I've blogged!!! Not that I haven't thought about it mind you. Oh yea, every few days while living life, amidst work, fun, family & friends, a title for a blog post will pop into my mind. Those just haven't made it all the way down the court and into the basket.

Privilege is how I'd describe where I am in my life right now. Privileged that I am able, healthy & available to spend time with this "sweetie" in the pic!

Life and circumstances have put me in the right place @ the right time you might say.

Julia is a senior. We're treating our afternoons and evenings together as "Real Life 101". Learning menu planning; advanced cooking, budgeting & some fun crafting & event planning.

I dug out my iPhone and touched "camera" while driving her to school yesterday. This week is homecoming for her. The kids dress in 50's 60's 70's etc all week. Here Julia is dressed as the 1950's little wifey. Adorned by those darling pearls, coincidentally yesterday was her day to make the "cheese biscuits" in her foods class:):):)!!!

Andrew Passed!

2010-08-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

2010-08-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Just received this pic a few days ago from Michelle. Andrew passed Gladiator Greek!!!!

I'm humbled and proud of Andrew, but even more i am so thankful for God's directing the desires of our hearts!

The texts of the New Testament were written in Greek. Their content is basically a narration of the first century of Christianity. It all starts with Jesus, the Son of God.

The central themes of the NT is underlining Jesus as Messiah; that redemption from sin only can be obtained through belief in Jesus; the conduct of Christians; the spread of Christianity to all the world; the governing of the Church; and the end of the earth.

Greek is of course a requirement for Seminary students, as is Hebrew.

I don't know about you, but I love love love to have scripture broken down word by word, with the meaning of each word explained. That's when our Bible comes ALIVE!

Have you ever thought how totally AMAZING our Bible is? The Bible claims in II Timothy 3 to be the Word of God. "All scripture is inspired by God".

Here's an example of how the study of Greek can help us;

the word "theopneustos" is the Greek word for our phrase "inspired by God". The Greek word theopneustos literally means, "God Breathed".

The Bible was written by 40 authors on 3 continents, in 3 languages over a period of 1600 years! -annd not once do the 31,000 verses consisting of over 700,000 words contradict themselves.

So, if I read my Bible in II Tim 3, and it says, "All scripture is inspired by God, and is profitable.........." I could easly gloss over the word inspired and think that God probably inspired the 40 authors to write what they wrote. However, when I go to the Greek and see the word theopneustos means "God breathed", then I get a very clear picture.

The scripture doesn't say "all authors were inspired by God". No, it says All SCRIPTURE is inspired (breathed) by God.

That my friend, makes me value the words I read in my Bible much much more!

Thank God for His preserving His word for us, and for putting the desire in the hearts of men to study and understand just what He meant by what He said.

Home Sweet Home.....Missing Europe!

2010-08-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

Awwwww.......Parieee

2010-07-30T02:19:00.000-07:00

So much to say....so little time.

Our last day in Paris. Slept in later than normal--8:00 am. Lovely coffee and croissants, and now off to the area of the Lourve for some strolling and lunch......Yes, it's pretty amazing...... this city......this way of life.

Toured the entire city yesterday by bus, foot and boat. Went in the Eiffel Tower, amongst other things.

I could write and write about this city. I want to come back to France. I want to explore the countryside.

Gotta run for now though......

Resting

2010-07-28T14:32:00.001-07:00

Even though I'm in Paris, I'm still getting emails from home.
Apparently Joy's been burning the candle @ both ends, socializing & catching balls @ Giants games.
Marci sent news last eve that Joy had croup & sounded like a seal; which is what happens when she gets overtired.
Received this pic tonite, showing Joy resting with her "people" on the sofa.
Looks like a comfy position for Nanni to join her and recuperate from jet lag!

Crepes with Nutella & Bananas

2010-07-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

Yummmmmmmmm............

A Paris Cafe

2010-07-27T23:38:00.000-07:00

Paris

2010-07-27T23:29:00.001-07:00

We're here & it's beautiful!

Weston's Fun First Birthday Party

2010-07-10T17:18:00.000-07:00

Personalize a photo album

Weston in a box!!

2010-07-03T13:57:00.000-07:00

Doesn't take much to entertain this little man. Give him a Swiffer mop, a cardboard box or a long piece of string.

Nap time in 5 minutes. Then get ready for the "Party if his life".

Gettin ready for my PARTY!!

2010-07-02T11:19:00.000-07:00

Michelle is busy gathering all her fun food and decor for Weston's 1st birthday party tomorrow.

Of course, little guy is happiest sitting in the kitchen amongst all the bags etc.

Now SINCE he just became 1 yesterday, Mama felt it was high time he get to eat a tootsie roll pop!

Mama tried to open it for him, but he wouldn't have it....nope he wanted to open it himself. Mama also tried to show him which end to put in his mouth, but he wouldn't have her help on that one either....So, he's found the right end of the sucker...and. "waa...laa"; Happy Baby!

A Breath of Fresh Air!

2010-06-30T22:41:00.000-07:00

Well, we're back in Burbank. Cool, comfortable, Burbank.

Tomorrow is Weston's 1st Birthday...... Seems like just last week we all gathered in Glendale to welcome him into the world!

Palm Springs was traditionally hot this past weekend for the RESOLVED 2010 conference. We were fortunate this year in that our hotel room was in the same building as the event. Whew, that made things MUCH cooler and not so hectic.

I LOVE RESOLVED! and again, I can't wait for next year...................This year was particularly sweet for me. I got to hear Al Mohler for the first time. Al is President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary......and in jest, CJ Mahaney said Al is the "smartest man on the planet". I think he's probably the smartest man I've ever heard for sure.....

RESOLVED is not a conference to walk you through "12 steps to becoming a better person", or "Principles to Converting Your Friends". It was 5 men, preaching over those 11 sessions on "Jesus". For the past few months as I've known what the "theme" would be this year, I wondered? Where would Steve Lawson, Al Mohler, CJ Mahaney, Rick Holland and John MacArthur take us in scripture to show us who Jesus Christ is? Obviously, one would think they'd take us to Bethlehem for His birth, and of course of Golgotha for His crucifixion. Nope, they, in true form did not take us to the obvious. My 2 favorite messages were out of Revelation, where one would think we'd hear about the end of the world..... and all leading up to it........instead we read scripture pointing over and over to Christ being our High Priest, and Christ being the eternal King of Kings.......and Wow!!!! What a commanding King of Kings He is and forever will be!

Some line from a song I love, say:

"Before the throne of God above, I have a strong and perfect plea; The great High Priest whose name is Love, Who ever lives and pleads for me.

My name is graven on His hands,

My name is written on His hear;

I know that while in heaven He stands

No tongue can bid me thence depart.

Because my sinless Savior died,

My sinful soul is counted free;

For God, the Just, is satisfied

To look on Him and pardon me.

Behold Him there, the risen Lamb

My perfect, spotless righteousness,

The great unchangeable, I am,

The King of glory and of grace!

One in Himself, I cannot die

My sould is purchased by His blood

My life is hid with Christ on high,

With Christ my Savior and my God!

For the first time, I got a clear picture of how Genesis, the first book of the Bible starts pointing to the birth of Messiah, Jesus Christ. Something must have clicked in my brain, cuz I can now clearly see how the entire Old Testament talks of Christ's birth, death on the cross, and resurrection, as well as His return for His own, and final judgment. Like a curtain being opened in my mind, I see the Bible now, not as a compilation of books, but a perfectly, well thought out, divinely inspired map and pathway to God's Eternal Plan and Rule. I could go on and on.....and perhaps I'll have to start another blog or something, cuz I'm SOOOO excited to have scripture come alive for me! I can't say enough about the sheer pleasure of attending 11 sessions in 3 1/2 days, and the beauty of the sufficiency of Christ and scripture!

2010-06-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

This crazy life I lead has cut into my blogging time lately; so here's a very quick update:

Heading out in a few hours to So Cal. First Burbank, then Palm Springs for RESOLVED 2010! My 3rd year in a row to attend; I say every year, I want to go until I'm totally unable!

Since Andrew & Michelle were here and I posted last, I made another surprise visit to MO. Returned in time to go to Las Vegas for Paul and I to celebrate our 18th wedding anniversary. We arrived back in CA on Sunday night. He left Tues for MO again, and I'm hittin the road soon!

Marci, Jon and I met Brian for dinner last night again at our new favorite: Wente Winery in Livermore. Brian's birthday was Tuesday and Marci's is Friday. Brian's the ripe old age of 52 now, and Marci is 28.

The RESOLVED conference goes until Monday night. Andrew, Michelle, Weston and I will head back to Burbank on Tues morning. I'll stay the week with them, and Saturday, July 3rd is Weston's 1st Birthday Party!!!!! Am greatly looking forward to this trip, Resolved, and his birthday. We'll see lots of friends and family too!

Ok, so gotta run and finish packing.

Hopefully, I'll keep the blog updated better than I have lately.

Bye!

Shootin Hoops @ Nanni's

2010-05-17T08:31:00.001-07:00

2010-05-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy "D Sharon Pruitt" Flickr/Compfight

I'm about as happy as a flea on a fat dog!

Yep, I'm walkin around my house listening to Michael Buble, Michael W. Smith, Dixie Chics, Dianna Krall, Steve Tyrell, and the list goes on and on. My playlist this morning is quite eclectic.... Cuz thats the kind of mood I'm in. If I had A.D.D. it would definitely be showin up this morning. I'm going from one thing to another.... The weather is AWESOME. I'm changin sheets, bakin, fluffin and fixin.

Today's a day Marci, Jon, Joy, Ava and I have been waitin for since we heard it was really gonna happen......

Today's the day Andrew, Michelle & "Wessie" come for a 10 day visit!!!!! Yippee!

They're on their way via Pismo Beach. Their expected ETA is dinnertime tonight!

Marci and I have our menus planned out for the week. We had fun goin shoppin for all the fixins last evening. Marci's doin breakfasts. We're sharin dinner responsibilities, and I've got all the stuff for lunches.

Monday night will be Tapas and Drinks. A Bobby Flay slider recipe, a Barefoot Contessa Spanish combo, salad and Mocktails are on the menu.

Later in the week, Uncle Brian will be here for a visit and we're Grillin Handmade Pizzas.

We plan on hangin out, eating good food, playing lots of games and enjoyin the 3 kiddos getting reacquainted.

Yippee Skippy is about all I can say right now!

Whew!!!! I'm tired!!!!

2010-05-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

Photo Courtesy PiggBox

Well, it's May and the past few days I've been able to get a little rest. I'm in KC, where the pace is MUCH slower. You know, cows grazing on the hillsides, neighbors fishin in the pond, and headin into town for some "provisions" and dinner this evening. Yippee!!! I'm ready!!

Since March, I've been to the California desert, back to N. Cal, back to So Cal for my Aunt Sharon's 80th birthday party, over to SF with Julia for spring break, and then back to So Cal to visit Azusa Pacific College with Julia. Now I'm in KC. See why I'm tired?!!?

If anyone sees a great sale on LUGGAGE let me know. I go through the stuff quickly!! I've thought recently the motto for my life should be: "Never own more than you can carry in a suitcase". Miss Piggy's motto is, "Never eat more than you can lift". LOL

I'll post a few pictures of the past whirlwind that we refer to as Spring 2010. I'll include a few tidbits and info.

Thanks for you patience!

Resurrection Sunday!

2010-05-06T14:27:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure and blessing of being at Grace Community Church on Easter Sunday with Andrew and Michelle. I had arrived evening before.

Michelle had to be at work in the church nursery at 6:30am. Andrew and I and Weston met her at church. Of course, I could write a very lengthy article or perhaps even a small book about how much I've grown in my relationship with Christ since being able to hear such pure truthful teaching from John MacArthur. Expository preaching, truth only in what the Bible says, not by what someone may interpret it to say has given me SUCH an appreciation for God's word. Beyond that, the beauty of Resurrection Sunday was clearly and wonderfully celebrated on Easter this year.

Upon returning home, the smell of lamb, asparagus, potatoes, etc filled the kitchen. Wow, what a beautiful feast Michelle preparred. The table was set with a Vera Wang linen tablecloth. Place settings were simple and beautiful. I felt soooo pampered!!!

I told Michelle, I was going to title a blog post, "When I grow up, I want to be just like my daughter-in-law". How very blessed I am by my 4 kids. Yes, 4 kids. I claim both Jon and Michelle as my own! Couldn't be more appreciative of the mates God planned for Andrew and Marci.

My Precious Aunt Sharon!

2010-05-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, she's 80! On Saturday April 10, 30 of us gathered in my cousin Sharol's backyard to celebrate. For me, it was a dream come true. We don't get to all get together as often as we all wish we could. Life gets so busy, and it's short too.

I was HAPPY beyond myself that Andrew, Michelle, Weston, Jon, Marci, Joy and Ava all were able to attend.

My cousin who I've always nicknamed "Martha Stewart Bob Villa", put on "The Dog" as you'd say. She had one long table with individual place settings in her backyard. Just being in the backyard alone is heaven; let alone filled with all those fun people!

The theme was "Sharon's Favorite Things".

Black and white and red were the colors.
Old pictures, (and I mean OLD) added to the centerpieces.
Barbecue, Potato Salad, Spinich Salad, Cornbread with honey butter, Southern Green Beans, etc, etc, etc,
Chocolate Eclairs for Dessert.
And a Great Game of Jeopardy were some of the ways we celebrated.

Later in the evening about 8 of us challenged each other in a game of "Balderdash" as the Ritzy So Cal people call it. Us No Cal people call it "Poor Man's Dictionary Game".

Here's a few pictures.

Cousin Darin, Contestant #2

2010-05-06T14:23:00.001-07:00

Marci & Sleepy Weston

2010-05-06T14:23:00.000-07:00

Contestant #1, Brian B

2010-05-06T14:22:00.000-07:00

Sharol & "Alex Trebec"

2010-05-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

Ava & Uncle Brian

2010-05-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

Jessa!!!!! LOL!!!

2010-05-06T14:18:00.000-07:00

The Whole Fam.......Dam.......LY!!!

2010-05-06T14:17:00.000-07:00

Nanni & Ava Grace!

2010-05-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

Michelle & Weston

2010-05-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

Sharol with the Jeopardy Board

2010-05-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

This game was FUN. Sharol had every detail taken care of. The categories were hilarious. Can't quite remember them all, but a few were: "I'm Funny About My Chicken". "Sharon, What Were you Thinking?" "Lady Of The Night", "Trains, Planes and Automobiles". These were all categories that included funny stories and info about Sharon.

Dara and Abby, (the Grand-Dog)

2010-05-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

The Monogram Wine Bar

2010-05-06T14:04:00.000-07:00

Food Prep the Day Before

2010-05-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

MarthaStewartBobVilla, My Cousin, Sharol!!

2010-05-06T14:02:00.000-07:00

The Family Table!

2010-05-06T14:01:00.000-07:00

Baby Where'd ya get those EYES!

2010-04-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Michelle sent me this yesterday. Had to share!

Hope to get back to blogging soon. Too many trips this past few weeks
for me to keep up. Heading to KC today!

Little Miss

2010-04-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

Is this Little Miss Muffet or Little Bo Peep?

No it's Little Miss Ava, gettin ready for church this morning.

Marci sent me this just as Julia and I were leaving Pasadena.

Goodbye Pasadena!

2010-04-18T10:50:00.001-07:00

Heading to Azusa on Amtrak

2010-04-16T14:02:00.000-07:00

Squeeky Clean in Austin

2010-04-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

A few random shots

2010-04-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

Meet the Cutest Met

2010-04-06T13:03:00.000-07:00

Weston

2010-04-06T12:56:00.001-07:00

2010-04-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

"Amazing Love, how can it be that thou my King would die for me?

While reflecting on the reality of the Cross and Good Friday, I did a little reading about crucifixion. Here are just a few points to ponder:

Death by crucifixion was a form of punishment passed down to the Romans by the Persians. Roman persecution was a lingering doom. They planned it that way. Roman executioners had perfected the art of slow torture while keeping the victim alive. Most hung on crosses for days before dying of exhaustion, dehydration, traumatic fever or most likely suffocation. The hands were usually nailed through the wrists, and the feet through the instep or the Achillies tendon. None of these wounds would be fatal, but their pain would become unbearable as time dragged on.

May I never forget the great suffering He bore for me in order to be saved from God's eminent wrath.

"For He was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed". Isaiah 53: 4-5.

Celebrate this Easter knowing the truth of the season; " The Reason for the Season".

Why I'm Not For The Current Healthcare Reform

2010-03-29T23:29:00.000-07:00

Recently, a cousin of mine on FB, (who I must say does not live in the US) asked her FB friends and family to explain why so many American's do not want Healthcare to be "communally covered, like the Post Office".

The thought of rounding up all my random thoughts on the subject and trying to put my feelings into an intelligent argument seemed a good exercise for me to attempt.

So...........here just in case you're interested is "Why I'm Not For The Current Healthcare Reform".

Dear FB cousin,

Oh sweetie!! Are you sure you really want to hear what so many of us think?

The Post office has been subsidized by the American populace for many years. They will show a 7 billion dollar deficit this year! We will need to bail them out via tax dollars! Imagine a Postal type of Health care!

A (recently hired) Federal employee – states, "We NEVER send official or time sensitive documents by U. S. Post Office. All new-hire personnel packages and documents – anything that can’t be sent via e-mail – are sent UPS or Fed X. We almost NEVER use U.S. Mail. All Federal agencies have either Fed-x or UPS accounts. If you like the VA, then you’ll love Obamacare!"...

Along with the Post Office, let’s not forget to include Medicare, Medicaid, and the illustrious Social Security programs that are such wonderful examples of government-run entities.

Amtrak, Fannie/Freddie, GM are more examples of the same. (Sorry, Brian, but I just gotta say it as I see it!)

Insurance companies are rationing healthcare. Rationing healthcare leads to people becoming unnecessarily ill or dead. The oversight board set up by the healthcare legislation will have the final say on appropriate coverage for patients. That means rationing (or “triage”, if you prefer)

Ronald Regan said, "No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear". He made several more statements regarding excessive government involvement in our lives. Here are a few: "Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth.
Entrepreneurs and their small enterprises are responsible for almost all the economic growth in the United States. Government always finds a need for whatever money it gets. Government does not solve problems; it subsidizes them. Governments tend not to solve problems, only to rearrange them"

We may also remember it's been said that America wouldn’t except socialism outright; but fed a little at a time then one day they would wake-up to find themselves in a socialist nation.

I do hold the opinion though that we are to submit to civil authorities, the government, and obey the laws of the land--whether we live in the US, a country in Europe, or a socialist society.

Hope this helps sharing why so many of us can't see how health care should be "communally covered like the post office etc."

Thanks for letting me share my opinion!

Happy Birthday Fun!!

2010-03-25T11:55:00.000-07:00

Here's where I got to have dinner last night in an early celebration of my birthday!!

Brian called me on the spur of the moment and had a great idea!! Yes, dinner in Livermore. We first were going to Uncle Yu's, but..........later Marci said Jon was out mowing the lawn and stopped quickly and called for her to come outside......then he said--"Hey, call your Mom and see if she wants to go out to dinner tonight for her birthday".....:):):):):):):):): (love that guy, don't you?).............Marci told him I already had a previous invitation, to which he quickly thought how fun it would be for us all to go!!!!!!

The phones got heated, communication whirled and the moral of the story is: 4 people + reservations at Wente Winery at 5:00 pm last night = a REALLY fun, relaxing and delicious dinner..

Thank you Uncle Brian and Marci & Jon. Totally LOVED it!!!

A Bridge to Cross the Great Divide

2010-03-17T23:23:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the Golden Gate Bridge. I always treasure going into "the city" as we refer to it. Usually, I make my way into San Francisco via the Oakland Bay Bridge.

On a clear day, one can visibly see the Golden Gate off to your right. On a foggy day, it's possible to get a glimpse of the top of our beautiful icon. Sometimes, if I'm lucky enough, I arrive in the late afternoon, when the sun is so beautifully setting, some billowy clouds are hovering over the Golden Gate and it literally takes my breath away.

Those kind of moments are "aah haa" moments for me. The beauty of nature, clouds, the ocean, atmosphere, beautiful architecture, all remind me that God is soooo in Control!!

"Aah haa" moments have been few and far between for me lately..........I've not gotten to breathe the cool ocean air, hear the sounds of cars in the city, nor cross the bridge with my windows rolled down while listening to great music in the car.

I've been in a season of being still. Taking one day at a time. Asking God to give me strength for each day and a quiet and gentle spirit.

It's during these times that I usually grow and learn the most.

Isn't God funny that way? He knows what we need, and it's usually not in our best that He would quickly make our lives easier--but that He would have us draw closer to Him. To be still! To wait patiently on Him. To cling to His word. To rest in Him. To enjoy all the wonder and beauty of His love and care for us.

There's a song by "Point of Grace" called "The Great Divide". I've always LOVED it.

Here's what it's about.

Our sin separates us from God. We look out and feel empty. Empty in the silence of life......wander around aimlessly... But God is gracious, and our sin would still separate us, if it were not for the bridge He made us.

That bridge was the cross. The cross that He sent His Son to die upon. To pay the price for our sins. To take our sins upon Himself. So,,,,,,, again............the bridge He made for us was the cross!

That cross bridges the divide between our sinful selves and eternal life with our God.

The cross is our way to reach the other side.

What a wonderful, merciful God and Savior we have to have provided us such an escape from damnation.

It's up to us to believe and accept His Mercy to us. To repent of our sinful, selfish, prideful, vindictive ways and submit to living a life that is pleasing to Him.........until He takes us home to the heaven that He's promised us.

Here's a few words from the song I've been talking about. I've also added it to my playlist for you to hear if your computer has the capability.

Silence
Trying to fathom the distance
Looking out across the canyon carved

God is gracious
Sin would still separate us
Were it not for the bridge His grace
Has made us

There's a bridge to cross the great divide
A way was made to reach the other side
The mercy of the Father, cost His son
His life

His love is deep, His love is wide
There's a cross to bridge the great divide

God is faithful...
On my own I'm unable,
He found me hopeless, and alone;
Sent a Savior

His love delivers me......

There's a bridge to cross the great divide
A way was made to reach the other side
The mercy of the Father, cost His son
His life.............

His love is deep, His love is wide....

There's a cross to bridge the great divide.

The cross that cost my Lord His life
Has given me mine.........

There's a bridge to cross the great divide
There's a cross to bridge the great divide

I'm soooo thankful to be able to rest in my Savior, who died for MY sins and who sits at the right hand of the Father and prays for me.

Think this is what I'm up to?

2010-03-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been awhile. Could be I've been in a little slump! Or.....pretty busy............Or..........had a hard time focusing.........Or..............a whole lot of other stuff...............

Anyway, I'm in the desert in So Cal. Drove down last Thursday and picked up Colette & Easton on the way at the airport. They are out here for spring break. The weather is wonderful. But..........I'm not sitting on the couch just enjoying the retired life...........no, I'm nursing a cold, the flu or whatever...........I do however have high hopes of trying to get into this position in the next few days................especially since I just started an antibiotic this afternoon.............HOPE is just a few hours away!!!!!!

2010-03-02T08:34:00.000-08:00

Okay,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, I really don't know what's going on with my blog.

Guess I'd better take some time and ask some questions. I'm not looking forward to the whole process; I've heard nightmares about "Blog Issues".

On another note; here's a little update:

I'm alive. Yes, my blog may be looking dead, but I'm not! If I am, then "yippee", I get to plan my own funeral! All I'm gonna say is I know the music I want played ("The Power of the Cross") and I'd definitely want "BJ's Pizzookie's" served. (lol) I can't say I haven't thought about planning my own funeral at times. Probably because we had to plan my Mom's so quickly and then my Dad's soooo soon after that. I could go on and on with songs I'd like played, but that wasn't my intent when I began this post about my blog!!

It's still early Tuesday morning, and I can definitely get wordy early in the morning when writing--so I'll spare you all.

I'll get to work checking out what's going on with my blog, and I'll upload some pictures of my recent trip to So Cal visiting Andrew, Michelle and Weston.

Have a great day....................

More to come..........

Help! Have I been hacked????

2010-02-26T09:44:00.000-08:00

For the past few days, when logging into my blog, there's a mysterious post, and it's always in Spanish. I'm quite irritated. I have no idea where these things are coming from; but they all have one thing in common----yes, I'm not affluent in Spanish, but I can make out the words "Facebook". So...................while I don't have the time to investigate today. I'm deleting them when I see them, or when great friends write me emails very early in the morning and tell me they don't understand my blog anymore!!!! Thanks RENEE!!!!!!!

I'm not posting this stuff and am anxious to put a little time into it soon.

In the meantime, if anyone cares to read and decipher the Spanish, feel free to send me any information you may have on these mysterious posts!!!

Reading before bed.

2010-02-17T19:29:00.001-08:00

First drink of diluted iced tea!!!

2010-02-17T19:28:00.002-08:00

2010-02-17T19:28:00.001-08:00

Guess who Nanni's visiting?!?!

2010-02-17T19:26:00.001-08:00

Ava Grace ready for errands!!

2010-02-10T12:57:00.000-08:00

Look at this CAKE!!!!

2010-02-10T11:15:00.001-08:00

Ok, so I'm NOT a chocolate person. Nope, I'd rather have the fake stuff. The *White* Chocolate. I don't believe it's really chocolate, just pure sugar and artificial things, (which is probably why I love it so much). Anyway, I do occasionally enjoy something with a little chocolate combined with perhaps peanut butter, caramel, or you know, *white* chocolate.

You'll notice on the side of my blog a new button linking to Kevin & Amanda. I don't know them personally, but happen to LOVE their website. They are web designers, scrapbookers, photographers, and once you visit their site, you'll see I'm pretty sure they enjoy the finer things in life.......you know, cooking and eating and trying great recipes!!!

So, while browsing this morning, I came across this *yummmmmy* lookin cake. There's a link to the recipe on their site and I'm dying to make this.

I'm not sure how this goes along with me supposing to be on a Medifast diet, but at least I can dream, right?

http://www.kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/new-pictures/birthday-bliss.html

Click on the link above to view the cake, recipe and more pics!

Look who's sittin up all by himself!

2010-02-09T16:23:00.000-08:00

Just got a text from Michelle, sayin her little man has grown up just
a little bit more today.

He must be just readin to himself because I'm pretty sure he can't
talk too well with that paci in his mouth! Lol!

Designer Necklace!!!

2010-02-06T17:41:00.000-08:00

Marci had some errands to run before their superbowl party tomorrow.
Since it's been raining, I went over and watched the kids so she
wouldn't have to wrestle car seats, shopping carts, umbrellas and
groceries!

Joy had been feeling kind of like a woman getting ready to go out for
a special occasion; you know sorting through her closet and battling
that voice that says "I have NOTHING to wear". In reality the closet
is stuffed full perhaps even to the point of needing more hangers; but
still that "nothing to wear" mentality ensues.

Stoves, kitchen ensembles, mixers, magnetic paper dolls, wood play
knives that safely slice through green play cucumbers that magically
revert back to whole cucumbers when the Velcro is connected; these
and about 1000 books and two mini pianos all live at Joy's house
waiting to be played with.

But today, Joy was kinda suffering with the "nothing to play with" blues.
Those existing toys just weren't quite cuttin it. So, Marci asked me
to bring something crafty over for " poor Joy" to work on.

Not wanting to give her a needle to use, we improvised with a Bobby
pin. We tied on a fruit loop and Joy made this beautiful piece of
jewelry.

Needless to say she had a blast. Here's the little diva now!!!!

Ava waiting patiently. Eatin her boppy!

2010-02-06T17:17:00.001-08:00

Joy took this picture!

2010-02-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

So, after I took Joy's picture, she insisted on taking mine. I can't believe how well she made sure she got all of me in the picture. Future photographer I'm sure!

Crazy for You!!

2010-01-29T10:56:00.000-08:00

We're in KC. Remington has been performing in his middle school's play, "Crazy for You", this week.

Wow, were we impressed!!!

Last night we had tickets to the performance. They're debut was Tuesday night. There were approx 80 kids who participated. Their teacher is young and is FULL OF LIFE! This is his 3rd year teaching, and what a role model he is. Apparently the musical "Crazy for You', was on Broadway in the 1920's. Several songs in the musical are classics; Embraceable You, Someone To Watch Over Me, I've Got Rhythm, Stiff Upper Lip, and Nice Work If You Can Get It.

The play's been performed all over, but apparently never by middle schoolers. Seems it's quite a huge undertaking. Well, they pulled it off and did it with standing ovations.

The kids did all the props, backdrops, lighting. They had a live orchestra that was GREAT. On the opening night, a local restaurant catered a dinner which was served by high school students. "Dinner Theatre" would be the best way to describe opening night. Colette went and said it was sooooo much fun!!

The storyline was catchy, the music fun and those kids were animated. Costuming was so well planned, created and I thought I was at a Broadway show several times.

The best part for me was seeing what those kids could accomplish with the right spark, inspiration and leadership. I'm sure they will all remember being a part of this for the rest of their lives.

After the performance Remy introduced us to his teacher Mr. Davis. The kids love him and he definitely knows how to work with kids.

Crazy LOVE!!!!

2010-01-19T14:07:00.000-08:00

New pictures are coming soon of Joy & Ava. Marci had their pics taken for a contest recently. It's kinda like American Idol where you can vote yourself. I'll let you know how to vote, cuz I KNOW YOU'RE ALL GONNA WANNA VOTE FOR MY GRANDKIDS!!!! RIGHT!!!! Yea, I know.

Anyway, last fall, Michael Buble came out with a new album, entitled "Crazy Love". Marci and I bought the cd to share. She and Jon have been playing it in their car and Joy ABSOLUTELY LOVES the song " I Just Haven't Met You Yet!"

I got custody of the cd in the past few weeks, but hadn't gotten around to playing it yet. But all this time I've had it, everytime I'd see Joy, she'd say, "You bring back my Michael Buble for my car?" I felt like a thief!!! I can't tell you how many times lately when coming or going she's asked me that question!

So,,,,, I finally put it in my itunes and can now play it in my car, house, or anywhere on my ipod.......AND........ Joy can have her Michael Buble back!!

So, her favorite song is playin on my blog and she's a happy camper.

Enjoy, and keep checkin for info on how to vote for some cute kids!!!!!

Look what Marci just found!!!

2010-01-15T11:40:00.000-08:00

Snow Mobiling in Tahoe!

2010-01-14T14:36:00.000-08:00

I'm playing Nanni to Ava in Tahoe. Marci & Jon were invited for a
quick trip. Joy's at her Grammy and Papa's. We brought Ava cuz she
is on a pretty limited diet if you get my drift!

We're leaving here thus afternoon and heading home. It's been
beautiful here. Fire in the fireplace and dinner brought in to me
last night was just what this Nanni loves!!

Fun!!

2010-01-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

Here's just a few pictures from Kara & Jeff's wedding Saturday night. Morris Chapel for the ceremony and The Rivermill for reception----how can you go wrong with that?

We were thrilled to take Julia with us. She and I had gone shopping last week to get her a new dress and accessories. I had a ball with that part of it too!!!

I absolutely LOVE this picture!!! She was soooo excited to go and you can tell these two were having a GOOD TIME!

I'll quickly post a few more, just to get them up for all to see. Don't have the time to write much today.

Enjoy!

2010-01-12T11:32:00.000-08:00

2010-01-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

Uncle Dayton

2010-01-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd post this bit of info for anyone in the Dargatz, Bell, Buckmaster, Gutierrez family who reads my blog.

As we all know, Uncle Dayton was diagnosed almost 5 years ago with Alzheimer's Disease. In a way the disease has slowly taken his mind, yet in another way, it seems it's happened so fast.

I've watched Sharon patiently help, care and assist him over these years. I'd say the past 9 months, things have definitely changed at home. I've been able to visit several times this past year, as well as has Brian.

In early December Sharon and I sat in her living room and we chatted about what the future would hold. She told me she had been blessed with Karen Cattron being able to come and help her periodically. Also, a caregiver who helps care for another in their neighborhood was helping. Sharon's plans were to keep him at home until he could no longer recognize her.

To us, that time felt perhaps long away. I believe it was during that visit, I witnessed Dayton standing in the hallway and not knowing where his bedroom was. Unbelievable!! A man with such a keen mind, so intelligent, yet his mind withering away by Alzheimers.

Things took a turn for the worse just before Christmas. One morning, while sitting at the breakfast table, he suddenly passed out. 911 was called and he spent a night and a few days in the hospital. Tests were run, and he did NOT have a stroke.

Then, right after Christmas he had a series of mishaps and 2 falls. One was in the shower.

Imagine Sharon trying to get him up from that fall. Dead weight.

Sharon had asked God to show her what to do...........It seems He was answering.

So, although he still knows her, she could no longer physically care for him. He had quit eating and things got progressively worse.

Darin, Sharol and Loran all came to her aid. A very nice place was found. Karen Cattron came over last Sunday and they told him they were taking him somewhere he could get better. He cooperated beautifully. He had been suffering from a cold and some respiratory problems and I believe he really wanted to get some help.

While walking into his new home, he commented, "This is a beautiful place!". What a relief! The next few days Sharon was quite apprehensive as to how he would adapt.

Each time she's visited, he's been up chatting with the ladies!! Lol! He's chattering with everyone. He loves his room!

Sharol pops in and asked him the other evening if Sharon had come to visit him that day, to which he replied, "No, she didn't make it". That is totally untrue. She's been there every day. Once Sharon asked him what he did that day and he told her he "went home".

Life is now about finding her new normal. After sooo many years, what a change this will be for her. She's still walking around in somewhat of a daze. I told her to give herself 6 months and just take a day at a time.

So, keep her in your prayers and pray that God will continue to give Dayton peace and acceptance as He so graciously already has.

Children nestled snug on the sofa!

2010-01-02T18:12:00.001-08:00

Just finished the last of New Years dishes. Have a load in the
laundry. Took a 2 hour nap. Pandora radio playing Chris Botti type
music in the background.

Living room still needs some tidying, but the little messes of play
pots n pans, little plates, Mr Potato heads, and aero beds laying
about are well worth the enjoyment of having Marci and the 2 girls
here for 2 nights.

Jon's still at work. He went in Thursday morning @ 6:00 and gets off
Sunday morning @ 7:00. It's 6:00 pm Saturday as I post this--& not a
wink of sleep has he had.

Marci packed up & arrived here Thursday around 5:00 pm. We spent New
Year's eve counting our blessings of a comfortable warm home, baby and
toddler fast asleep, while we worked pn cutting our many coupons with
the tv on. We made it past midnite. ( actually that's not too hard
for either of us; it's the getting up next am that can be a tad rough)

I cooked my first ever prime rib on NY day. Crab, broccoli & potato
casserole. Decorated the table and changed out the front door decor.
Jon, Matt & an intern were able to come by for dinner, but not for
long. Alicia came and brought some appetizers. It was a low key
day. Joy let me rub her back and play with her hair before falling
asleep on Nanni's couch. I blew up the aero bed and we slumber
partied last night.

Grandparenting is Wonderful!!!