Bagley Briefs

Left, Left, Left, Right, Left!

2012-01-25T12:38:00.001-07:00

Last evening Val and I returned from a quick trip to Texas to see Andrew and Natalie and our friends the McIntyres.

The first thing Val said when he drove out of the parking area was...

"Oh, Utah! So glad to be out of Texas and all those lefts."

It's true, the lefts.

There were many interchanges where we kept left.

There were more left exit lanes.

There were weird left merge lanes across oncoming traffic.

There were twice as many left turns we made than right turns.

Even on return trips!

Despite the leftness of our trip, it was a wonderful respite from household woes.

We missed the snow/rain/snow storm.

We missed the cold weather for a few days.

Clarification: We didn't miss the cold weather like we miss our grandchildren. We missed the cold weather like - Whew! Missed that one!

We really, really, really enjoyed our time with Andrew & Natalie in Abilene. It's always nice to know what your loved ones homes look like so as to picture them in your mind.

They have a cute apartment in a nice complex.

Two cute dogs.

Comfy beds.

And, they are great hosts!

While we were there Andy showed us where he works.

We also saw the base housing where they are contemplating moving.

We did a little home improvement shopping - for our house.

We enjoyed lunch together at a Tex-Mex place - Abuelo's.

We checked out an antique mall.

We saw a movie together - War Horse.

We attended church together. While at church, we met Uncle Frank & Aunt Madalyn Hoopes' daughter -Connie. She lives in Andrew & Natalie's ward! Small world, eh?!

We visited, played games and was able to get to know Natalie better, too.

It was sad to leave... however, I did get three hugs from Natalie!

Awesome!

Sunday afternoon we drove to Double Oak to spend a day and a half with our friends the McIntyres.

Christina and I met and became friends while working at the Warner Center Marriott in Woodland Hills, California. We started working for Marriott Corporation on the same day, at the same hotel in Salt Lake City but didn't meet each other until 8 years later, in California.

Harold & Christina have five children... Alexa (14), Austin (13), Nicolette (9), Christian (6) and Brigitte (3). It's always fun to spend time with them and enjoy their hospitality. They make fresh bread at their house everyday. In fact, Monday we ran an errand with Christina and when we got home, Nicolette had a batch of dough rising in a bowl. She was making cinnamon rolls. First 9 year-old I've ever met who bakes bread on her own!

Christina has always loved baking and making candies. This last year she started a little cottage business making gift baskets with her handmade candies... caramels, toffee, peanut butter cups, fudge, truffles, etc.

She loves making candies.

We were at their house for a day and a half and she made candies 4 different times... just for the fun of it!

What do you suppose she did with all that candy?

It was too early to begin filling Valentine orders.

She doesn't put her product in stores (on consignment) any more.

She and her family love to eat some of what she makes but that cuts into her profits, so they ration themsleves.

She gave it to us. On the sly.

She packaged up a bag for Val and told him to take it home and give it to me, as a surprise, for Valentine's Day.

She also gave me a bag as a surprise for Val for Valentine's Day!

Oh, and then there was the gift basket she put in our room prior to our arrival.

My sweet friend Christina is so kind and giving. She makes such sweet, delicious treats!

She is very good at her craft and is always sharing!

Now, if I could just be as thin as she is and still enjoy her treats!

It's great to be home, even if things are bigger and better in Teaxas!

Oh What a Moldy Day!

2012-01-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I sat nestled in the corner of the family room sofa reading.

That corner is the most comfortable place in the house.

As I was reading I heard water dripping.

I stopped, looked around, didn't see actual water dripping, so I resumed my reading.

A few minutes later, I heard water dripping, again.

Knowing how destructive water leaks can be, I stopped again, crawled out of my corner and approached the area from where I thought the water was coming. With relief, I looked out the window and noticed water dripping from the side of the house onto some patio chairs. I opened the window and the sound increased.

Sure enough, I thought... Water is dripping outside. Whew!

Once again I resumed reading.

Read a while longer.

Changed the laundry.

Folded a batch of clean towels.

Took a call from one of my sisters.

Meandered upstairs to talk in the sitting room.

Then it happened....

Margaret came downstairs and told me my bathroom was flooding.

I talked to Charmalee a few minutes longer and then ended the call.

How bad could it be, I thought, as I wandered upstairs to my bedroom......

Whoa!

It was pretty bad.

Knowing how destructive water leaks can be, I turned off the water to the toilet, took off my shoes and stood there (in the cold, standing water) waiting for Val to bring up the wet/dry vacuum.

Margaret and I started to vacuum up the water but I knew this was too much water, much too much, for our little wet/dry vacuum to handle.

While Margaret continued to vacuum up water, I called our insurance agent to see if he had someone he could recommend for water clean-up.

Placed a call to the company and waited for them to arrive.

I've always enjoyed watching Holmes on Homes.

Even though I already knew water can be a destructive thing in homes, watching that program educated me on just how serious it can be, so I was grateful I was able to call a company for help.

I knew they'd have more powerful water extraction machines and would have the water out of the carpet in no time.

Right?

If there is enough water leaking to get sheet rock wet, the insulation and wall studs usually get wet too.

When insulation gets wet, it takes longer to dry because the sheet rock is also wet.

Saturated sheet rock and insulation inhibit the wooden wall studs from drying.

All of this wet... everything... creates a perfect environment for mold growth.

MOLD! It's bad. Real bad.

The Disaster clean-up folks don't use water extraction machines.

They have huge dehumidifiers and fans.

They come in and remove your carpet pad.

They set-up dehumidifiers and fans.

They ask you to turn-up your thermostat. Really high!

They return the next day and remove the wet sheet rock and insulation.

And on, and on, and on...

Now let me be clear... I am very grateful for the disaster clean-up people.

Very, very grateful.

But MOLD! It's bad. Real bad.

Mold is very insidious.

Mold can also be a death sentence for homeowners insurance coverage.

Most insurance companies won't pay mold related claims.

In fact, if you file a claim for mold related damages, many companies will cancel your coverage.

Thanks to the digital society we live-in, insurance companies share information.

Armed with that information, other insurance companies won't accept you as a client.

MOLD! It's bad. Real bad.

When all is said and done.

When our house is put back together.

When the chaos has ended.

I'm grateful for our home.

I'm grateful for our insurance coverage.

I'm so very grateful for my sweet husband who always tries to allay my fears and frustrations and helps me at every turn.

I just don't want to have to endure fire, earthquakes, tornadoes, wars, rumors of wars, or more water damage.

I'm a wimp and don't like handling all this stress and chaos.

Sheets! Who Needs Them?

2012-01-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

Me! Me! Me!

Linens are one of my loves.

I love looking at the bedding section in catalogs.

I love looking at home decorating magazines.

I love the thought of having a beautiful bedroom.

Let's be honest.

Having a beautiful bedroom is really just a dream.

Hello? Husbands!

Beautiful bedding aside, I love bed sheets.

Sheets serve a very good purpose.

A comfortable mattress and box springs are so, so important.

And becoming quite expensive, I might add.

A good quality mattress pad is also very important.

No, really!

Which is easier (actually, possible)?

Washing your mattress or washing your mattress pad and sheets?

The mattress pad protects the mattress.

The bed sheets protect the mattress pad and the mattress.

All this protection extends the life of your mattress.

So, in reality, sheets could be viewed as a necessary evil.

I like to think of them as a cozy necessity.

Cozy?

A debatable point at my house.

It's very frustrating that bedding manufacturers have not kept up with mattress manufacturers.

Pillow top mattresses are good.

Finding fitted sheets deep enough to fit the pillow top mattresses is a huge challenge and frustration.

Not to mention very expensive when you can find extra deep fitted sheets.

Yes, while I love, love, love linens, I do have a limit on what I will spend on bed linens.

With our last mattress purchase, we received a sheet set.

They fit!

They are white!

They are a great weave!

We have two other sets that were the right price. It stops there.

One set is light taupe, bone, whatever shade of beige you choose.

The other set is light blue.

Phew!

Our bedroom is in whites and lavendars!

The set includes an extra deep fitted sheet, the set was less than $60 so I bought 2 sets.

I bought them in the summer months.

They are a polished cotton weave.

Polished weaves are cool to the touch.

Cool to the touch in the summer months is great.

Cool to the touch during the winter months is AWFUL!

This week it is polished, non-matching sheet-set week.

I couldn't get warm last night.

I slept awful.

I still feel cold.

Poor me!

FWP!

First World Problem, I know, I know.

My husband loves these 'cool' sheets. I wish they came in white.

So, for three weeks of each winter month, I'm freezing and my bedding is mis-matched.

My husband is happy!

Well, to be honest, he's not happy that I'm freezing..

He's happy that he sleeps better when he's cool. UGH!

I do have two sets of jersey sheets, which are warmer than regualr sheets but not as warm as flannel sheets.

I love a happy husband, so I only sneak those on when it's really, really cold and make sure I open the window at night.

If I could find a set of flannel sheets with an extra deep fitted sheet, I'd save my pennies so I could buy a set.

I could at least use them when Val is out of town. Which is only one week in the winter months!

Well, at least I get to use the jersey sheets at the B House in the warmer months!!!

Sheets!

A necessity.

Not always cozy!

The Beginning of the End

2011-12-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago.

Thanksgiving, 2001.

That was the last Thanksgiving my family enjoyed with my sweet Mother.

Being the thoughtful lady she was, my Mom hosted Thanksgiving for the Blakeleys the Sunday before Thanksgiving. This enabled us to celebrate the holiday with the other side of our families on Thanksgiving Day and not feel conflicted about not spending it with my parents.

I really appreciated her forethought.

The first few years of this tradition she hosted the dinner in her home.

Eventually, Charmalee began opening her home to us, due to space challenges.

Mom would plan for at least a month, prepare for at least a week and delight our taste buds for hours.

The traditional Thanksgiving fare was not always her offering. She loved creating different menus and it was always delicious.

We were always treated with delicious food and knew certain things were prepared because she knew it was something loved by one, two or all.

She knew Laura liked little midget sweet pickles so they were always on the relish tray.

Paul loves shrimp, so shrimp were always included in the spread.

Brad and Laura are allergic to walnuts, so there was always something on the desert table, sans nuts.

Pumpkin Cheesecake was introduced somewhere along the way, was a huge hit, and is now considered a staple on the menu.

Mom had been battling heart disease for a few years and had undergone two open heart surgeries. In fact, the previous year, she was in the hospital on Thanksgiving.

Needless to say, in 2001 we were so grateful to have Mom with is, not to mention back in the kitchen preparing a wonderful meal for us to share together. Barbara was even in town to share the holiday with us!

The craft had been completed, dinner had been served, our tummies were full, the dishes were cleared, tables put away and Mom and Charmalee finally took the opportunity to sit down, relax and visit.

Unfortunately, soon after they sat down to relax, Mom began having chest pains and leg cramps.

It was time for Barbara to leave, returning to San Diego, and she left with a heavy heart and tears.

Mom insisted everything would be okay and tried to assure us that she was just tired. So, she laid down on the floor. The floor!

The sight of her laying on the floor was disconcerting to all, especially my Dad. He bundled her up and took her home.

Over the next few days she assured us she was fine and we began to settle back into our routines.

Mom's at home winter wardrobe consisted of a variety of sweats and neckerchiefs. I always thought she added the neckerchief for a touch of flair. Dressing up her sweats.

I later learned they were to keep her neck warm! She was cute and smart!

Christmas day, Mom was wearing her taupe sweats. Her skin color that day matched her sweats. A bit greyish. She looked drawn; tired eyes, lethargic.

My gift from my parents that year was a KitchenAid mixer!

To say I was excited was an understatement. Mom knew I had wanted one for a few years and despite hints and outright suggestions to Val, I still didn't have one. Mom must have known it was up to her and Dad if my kitchen was going to be equipped with a stand mixer.

By late January, Mom was almost lifeless.

A visit to her cardiologist landed her in the hospital. He believed she must have had a virus which attacked her heart and took a toll. The prescribed protocol was to administer new medicine that would strengthen her heart and put her on the mend.

On a side note... it seemed like whenever Mom had a setback, her cardiologist was on his way out of town. This time was no exception. His absence meant Mom would be attended to by another cardiologist in his office. I always hated this scenario.

The attending doctor determined Mom would benefit from a pacemaker. She had one previously but it was later deemed unnecessary and removed.

Friday the surgery was scheduled for Monday. This would give her a few more days to become stronger.

That same evening, Val and I took Laura, Andrew and Brandon to visit Mom. It was so fun to see her interact with them. She was so animated and it was evident she was beginning to feel better. It was such a delightful visit.

For some reason, the surgeon decided to perform the procedure on Saturday.

Saturday morning found us at Mom's cleaning house and finishing the redecoration of her bathroom.

She had decided a few months before that she was ready for new colors and decorations. We all gave her gifts for her birthday and Christmas to help her complete the gathering process so she could make the change.

I remember being in the bathroom with Jennifer, my niece, cleaning. I've always prided myself on my thorough cleaning regime. That day, Jenny trumped me. She cleaned the toilet which included cleaning the inside of the tank!

After we finished our tasks, Val and I took the kids to Salt Lake City to visit the Olympic Venues and choose a souvenir. It was a fun time despite it taking over an hour to travel two blocks. Traffic was so crazy. I'd never experienced traffic like that in SLC.

It was fun to wander around the city, visit the Olympic store, experience the area with the simulated events for the kids to try.

After a fun evening in the big city, we returned home. The phone rang shortly after. It was Jane saying Mom wasn't doing well and we'd better go to the hospital. Fortunately, for reasons I don't recall, on our way home that evening, we took the kids back to their Mom's house, which proved to be a blessing.

After Mom's pacemaker surgery, she was having some pain. Her nurse, who wanted her to be comfortable, gave her some morphine. The dose made her blood pressure plunge and despite all their efforts, they weren't able to bring it back-up and Mom passed.

It was February 2, 2002... 02/02/02.

We were all gathered around her bed. So badly I wanted to climb in bed with her and sing to her. I wanted to sing my favorite Primary songs... I am a Child of God; I know Heavenly Father Loves Me; I Often go Walking. I wanted to rub her back. I wanted to run my fingers through her hair. I wanted to hold her close one more time.

The bed was too small.

Our hearts broke a little that day.

Mom never got to see her 'new' bathroom.

Living in Suburbia

2011-11-11T10:11:00.002-07:00

The largest city I've ever lived in is London, England.

The smallest town I've ever lived in is Daphne, Alabama....

Then again Wehen, Germany may have been smaller.

When we moved to Syracuse, the population was hovering around 7,000.

Currently, the population is around 25,000.

The things I miss most about living in larger, more metropolitan areas are...

The shopping opportunities.

The cultural experiences.

The dining options.

and last but not least... in fact the best thing... the thing I miss the most...

The bakeries!

In Germany, almost every little town had a bakery.

There was nothing better than a warm fresh brotchen in the morning! Yummy.

Sometimes they were so fresh, you could see the steam waft from the roll as you broke it open. Divine.

Whenever I entertain, or around the holidays, I yearn for easy access to an awesome European style bakery.

Sigh!

Hot Stuff

2011-11-07T14:36:00.001-07:00

The other day I received an email from a lady who works in my building. She needed help and was frustrated that a new person on our team was not as responsive to her request as she is accustomed.

In her email she thanked me for helping her and was glad I don't think I'm 'hot stuff' like some others.

I replied to her email and said....

"The only time I'm hot stuff is when I'm having a hot flash."

It's true.

Unfortunately, those unforgiving hot flashes are coming on in record numbers.

And the night sweats? Ugh!

My doctor and I discussed the pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy about a month ago. I was out of estrogen, my refill privileges had expired and I wanted to know his thoughts on the continued HRT.

His opinions were in line with my feelings and I decided to suspend the therapy.

Man. It's as if the mere act of making the decision and walking out of his office flipped a switch, or amped up the frequency and intensity of the dreaded hot flashes.

I can't sleep.

I can't get comfortable.

I feel like I smell, all the time.

It's the pits, I tell you.

The PITS!

I'm going to go in for a second opinion.

What's your opinion?

My Sweet Mutti

2011-11-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

November 12th is the birthday anniversary of my sweet Mutti.

She would be 80 years young this year.

I miss her so, so much.

Not a day passes without me sending hugs and kisses to her in heaven.

Some times I write letters to her.

Sometimes I buy her greeting cards.

I feel closest to her when I'm grocery shopping,

or when I'm in the kitchen baking or cooking,

or when I put butter on my toast,

or use butter when cooking,

and definitely when I buy butter.

Did you know she had 22 lbs of butter in her freezers and fridges when she passed away?

Yep, that's my Mutti!

I love you Mutti!

Happy birthday!

Happy Autumn!

Happy Thanksgiving!

XOXOXOXOXOX

The photo is from 1957, the year I was born. It was the photo Dad used for the family Christmas card.

Dad was cool like that, making Christmas cards. Well, he's still cool!

Autumn Love

2011-10-18T13:03:00.000-06:00

Don't tell my husband, but.... I really, really love autumn.

It's his favorite season so naturally he would like it if I felt the same.

Because I love the fresh, warming of Spring, and all the beautiful Spring Bulbs and budding leaves, I can't claim Autumn as my favorite.

Val makes a good argument for Autumn being the best.... it's not as muddy as Spring!

True.

Really, I love all of the seasons.

Spring -vs- Autumn

How do you choose?

All I know is I am loving this weather; beautiful colors, scents and the desire to bake and cook up some yummy meals and treats in our kitchen.... especially the delicious tomatoes from our garden!

Double Delight

2011-08-13T10:17:00.000-06:00

This morning it occurred to me...

I didn't include my reunion with my sweet friend Jayne Stout Macpherson!

Now that was double delightful!

Jayne and I met while we were both living in Germany in the 70s. Although we lived quite a distance apart, (she lived with her brother and his family and I was living with my parents) we were in the same ward. Being some of the few single girls of the ward, we had lots and lots of fun at single adult activities, single adult FHE, and jaunts around the continent.

Jayne met and married one of the single adult guys from our ward, had their first child while living there and then Dale was transferred. We tried keeping in touch but eventually lost touch.

Thanks to the Internet, we reconnected earlier this year!

In July, Jayne and her two youngest daughters, Sara and Allison, travelled from Arizona to Utah for family reunions, mission homecomings, EFY and other fun stuff. One of those days they came up to visit me and took me to lunch.

It was so fun reconnect, reminiscing and catching up on each others lives. It was almost as if we'd never lost touch.

Jayne is still the same happy, positive, giving, caring friend she was all those years ago.

Sara and Allison are so much like their Mom in those same ways, too.

The only way our visit could have been better would have been if our time together were longer and our husbands could have met each other.

Hopefully we'll be able to schedule another visit sometime soon. Although, she has a very, very busy life. I feel lazy when I think about all she and her family have going on...

Thank you so much for coming to visit me Jayne. It was a double delight, indeed.

I love you!

Delightful

2011-08-12T10:20:00.000-06:00

Some of the delightful things I love, love, love about summertime include...

Long days (lots of light)
Morning light (especially in my gardens - everything looks almost ethereal)
Midnight walks (I'm always amazed at how many people are up so late)
Flowers, all colors, shapes, sizes
The fragrance of honeysuckle as it's carried to my windows on slight southern breezes
The smell of fresh cut lawns
Shade, especially from our very own trees
Tomatoes from our garden...delightfully delicious

Delightful things I've especially enjoyed this summer have been...

Mild temperatures
Working from home
Time spent with family and friends
A mini church history tour to Martin's Cove
Dates and test driving cars with my sweet husband
Sleepover with our grand-children and daughter-in-law
Visit from our Colorado granddaughters and their parents
Splish splash fun at Cherry Hill with the sleepover gang
The arrival of our newest and littlest grandchild... Link Gardner Bagley

Life is delightful!

Footloose!

2011-06-22T12:22:00.001-06:00

Footloose?

No, not me.

Last year I sold my car. My little silver Beetle.

Why, you ask?

Because I wasn't driving it much anymore. Seriously, I had driven it less than 4,000 miles in a 16 month period.

Now, when I want or need to go somewhere, I coordinate it with my cute husband or he takes me!

Not having a car has really cut back on my shopping, which is a good thing.

Not having a car has really cut in to my visiting, too, which is not a good thing. It's a sad thing.

Whenever I see my grandchildren, sweet Abbi reminds me it's been a long time since I've seen them.

Indeed it has Miss Abbi, way too long.

My cute husband and sweet Miss Abbi!

My cute husband is headed to Scout Camp for a week in July.

That means I'll be stranded... seriously... stranded to my house!

Oh my.

We've been talking about buying a new car... sooner than later.

Sooner, as in this autumn.

Tracking

2011-05-04T08:05:00.000-06:00

It is a milestone... or mileage stone, indeed!

My husband loves, loves, loves tracking things.

He used to have a mental game he'd play with his odometer.

His challenge was to see the mileage turn over at every one hundred miles.
He's given up this practice but his record was 13 times or 1,300 miles, consecutively, when he retired from this mind game.

A few weeks ago, we had fun with this milestone...

Of course, we had to take the long and winding way home because he wanted the odometer to be at 200,000 when we pulled in the driveway.

We also had to switch places, because I was driving and I really wanted him to be at the wheel when it happened. While it was fun to 'be there'.... I sure am glad my bladder cooperated!

On a side note... interestingly, his car turned over 100,000 miles on his birthday a few years ago. We were at Red Robin in Layton on that special occasion. :)

I really love my handsome man!

The Happiest Place on Earth!!

2011-05-03T14:00:00.000-06:00

The happiest place on earth was visited by the cutest Bagleys on earth!

Paul & Heather were able to take their cute ones to Disneyland during spring break last month.

Heather sent us some photos taken while at Disneyland. Based on photos and their reports, they were having the time of their life.

It looks like this photo was taken while they were on the animal train, and Alona is pretending to be an animal, too!

Val & I are so happy they were able to go and make more memories as a family! Most importantly, we are very grateful they returned home safley.

My, What Nice Ears!

2011-05-03T13:29:00.000-06:00

While I was in Colorado Springs, Kellie could often be seen wearing her bunny ears.

She was so funny about how her ears would look, too. Sometimes they were folded in, sometimes twisted not too often were they upright.

I suppose it was dependent on her playful attitude at the time.

Or, maybe she didn't like the airflow disturbance!

All I know is, they created a ticklish moment when hugs and kisses were shared while bunny ears were on her head!

Sleeping Diaperless

2011-05-03T13:13:00.000-06:00

While I was in Colorado Springs last month, Miss Delia began her "potty training" journey.

She was a somewhat reluctant participant but a trooper, nonetheless!

This is a photo of her first diarperless nap. Just a few short hours after training began.

And, she woke up dry!

Y.E.S. We have A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. grandchildren!

Oh, yes we do!

Object Lessons

2011-05-03T13:05:00.000-06:00

For the most part, I like object lessons.

As a teaching tool, they are a nice diversion from lecturing.

As a student, many have had a positive impact on me and they are learning moments I've retained.

The object lesson I've been thinking about lately is about give and take. Or, give and receive.

The objects in this particular lesson include a cup of water for each family member. The water represents service, love, acts of kindness, gifts, or things we do for each other.

Dad, our hero, goes to work each day which enables us to have food, clothing, shelter, transportation and opportunities to make memories doing fun things. A little bit of water from Dad's cup is poured into each family members cup, representing his love and service to our family.

Mom, well Mom does a lot.... shopping, meal preparation, teaching moments, help with homework, laundry, housework (and teaching us how to do these same chores, hopefully), transportation and the list goes on, and on and on. Sometimes this includes everything on this list and more and working outside the home. Water goes from Mom's cup to everyone else's cup, representing the love she has for us and the service she extends to us each day.

Children, most often the recipients of others water, also share their love and service when they help with the chores, help with younger siblings, give Mom and Dad hugs, are obedient to family rules and assignments, clean up after themselves, help with meals and show love and kindness to family members.

Hopefully you get the idea.

I enjoy sharing my water with others. Especially my family.

My wifely responsibilities enable me to share my water with my sweet husband. The husbandly responsibilities he assumes refills my cup. The bounteous blessing I receive each day from my Father in Heaven enable me to serve and share with others.

For the most part, our children and grandchildren share their water with us, too.

Although my goal is to have water constantly flowing to and from my cup, some areas of my ever flowing cup are parched.

Worrying about the parched areas and trying in vain to share seem to have created a drought.

When you feel like you've given all you have to share, receiving nothing in return, where do find more to continue sharing?

Obviously, we don't give to receive. I don't, anyway.

My giving comes from the heart.

A heartfelt desire to create a moment in the recipients life to let them know I'm thinking about them, that I love them and/or more simply, I just want to reach out to them. Sometimes my sharing stems from a desire to be helpful.

There have been so many people in my life - my Mother, Father and sisters being the best at sharing with me, - who have extended the same thoughtful acts of sharing and kindness, how can I not share?

From my perspective, to keep the water flowing freely, life has to be a give and take proposition.

Or give and receive...

Forgiveness, tolerance, acceptance... I believe each of these elements must be part of the give and receive recipe.

Sometimes I come up short on my ebb and flow. Never intentionally.

Some of my relationships feel like a one-way street, Not the give and receive of a two-way street.

Don't you just love, love, love my double and triple analogy combinations? Cups, recipes, streets!

In my constant state of self-analysis... it's obvious I'm missing the mark on some cups. However, without feedback, or even a polite acknowledgement of my efforts, how can I make corrections and improve?

When I feel this parched, I'm inclined to go where the water is flowing freely and receive reserves from those who freely give.

Feeling weary!

Not feeling groovy!

Love Letters

2011-04-22T10:35:00.000-06:00

Love letters warm my soul,

Make my heart smile, and

Brighten my day!

Since I'm not able to see my grandchildren on a regular basis (which means - alot!), I've taken to writing each of them letters.

My thought is it's a good way to let them know I'm thinking about them and I love them, bunches! Besides, who doesn't love getting something in the mailbox.

The most wonderful part of my letter writing campaign..... they write back!

Love letters from my grandchildren... not only do they warm my soul... they help me float through my day!

I love you Alona, Abbigail, Kacen, Kellie, Jesse and Delia!

Hugs from Grammie/Grandma Ruthie

I Am Not Afraid

2011-03-30T11:01:00.001-06:00

Before I met Val, he had a great group of friends that would often be found playing volleyball or UNO. Sometimes both in the same evening. They wouldn't play regular UNO, however. They liked playing Cuthroat UNO... a pretty aggressive game.

Over the years, although our get togethers have become less frequent, we still stay in touch with each other.

Lon and Jennie Richards, who formerly lived in Bountiful, moved to Riverton alot of years ago. In their new ward, they met Tom and Jenny Wiscomb. The Jennys became friends and Jennie R began including the Wiscombs in our UNO nights.

Being the small world it is sometimes, Val was delighted to meet up with Jenny Wiscomb, whom he formerly worked with at the March of Dimes!

Accompanying the Wiscomb's 2010 Christmas Card, was a letter recapping the year in the Wiscomb family. At the very end of the letter, Jenny talked about her battle with cancer, her clean follow-up appointments and hope for a better 2011. She bravely included photos of herself, sans hair, and her new look since her hair grew back.

Imagine our shock, dismay and heartsick feeling when we received an email from Jennie R letting us know Jenny W's cancer was back, with a vengeance. Jenni R actually forwarded us the email from Jenny W, so we could read about it in Jenny W's own eloquent way. An irony of this shocking email was that the Wiscombs received the call from Jenny W's Oncologist just 15 minutes before they were to walk out the door for an extended weekend at a beautiful cabin in Island Park.

They wouldn't be able to meet with the doctor until the next week, so they went to Island Park, with heavy hearts, and decided to enjoy their time together as best they could.

As fate would have it, the cancer is back and has spread to other vital organs (lungs and liver) of her body, is a very rare form of cancer and, for the most part, doesn't respond well to chemo or radiation therapies...

Jenny W has decided she would rather have quality of life, even though it may be shorter, than undergo the awful treatments of chemo and radiation therapies and be sick the last months and days of her mortal life.

Recently Jenny W sent out an email asking us to fast for her this next fast Sunday, and pray that her cancer can be slow growing, thus extending her life as long as possible. You see, Jenny's one and only son, Glen, is currently serving as a missionary and will return home in June. Jenny's sincerest prayers are that she will be relatively strong and able bodied when Glen returns home so they can have some quality time together.

Right now, Jenny is making quilts for her son and daughter (who is 16) and nieces and nephews. Quilts they can receive as a wedding gift, from Jenny (in absentia) when they marry. A bittersweet time with her Mother-in-law and Sister-in-law... choosing fabrics, cutting, piecing, sewing, quilting.... visiting, reminiscing... making lasting memories to shore them up when Jenny is no longer amongst us.

Recently Jenny was interviewed by W. A. Christensen, of the Enduring it Well series, on radio.lds.org. If you choose to listen to this inspiring interview make sure you have a box of tissues with you.

An inspiring interview with an amazing and inspiring lady. May God bless and keep the Wiscomb family.

Can't Wait!

2011-03-30T09:40:00.000-06:00

General Conference is just a few days away, and I can't wait!

Val and I have always enjoyed 'Conference Weekend' and the opportunity we have to Come listen to a Prophet's Voice.

Enhancing the experience is the opportunity we have to enjoy participating in our ward In-Between Potluck Lunch, which is in-between the morning and afternoon sessions on Saturday. It's fun to share a meal with neighbors and friends and discuss our favorites or 'aha moments' of the morning session.

Our challenge is to stay awake while we are listening to the speakers. It's kinda tough on our comfy sofas with snugly quilts and peaceful environment. To help us stay awake, we've taken to working on projects while we listen. If Val has a book project he's working on, he may save his coloring and color while he listens. I usually work on cards (this time I'll be putting together cards for the Bagley Easter Egg Hunt), or mating socks! Taking notes is always a must, too!

I hope conference weekend is a wonderful experience for you and your family, too!

Poor Neighbors!

2011-03-08T14:47:00.003-07:00

For some reason, when I was a little girl, I determined in my mind that people who let their window curtains billow outside the windows were poor.

As I grew, and so did the use of blinds, whenever I saw broken blinds, I also believed the residents were poor.

Now, I realize billowing curtains simply mean there aren't screens on the windows.

Broken blinds most likely indicate pets or children continually pulled on that section of blinds and they broke off. It doesn't indicate economic status.

Realizing folks aren't as concerned with the details, like me, is sometimes true, too.

Now that I'm a homeowner, I can't help but feel bad for the neighbors of people who don't seem to care about their yards.

Yard debris, overflowing trash cans in the front of the house (instead of in the back or side yard, hidden from view), toys scattered about, shoes, socks and other cast off items all help to create a picture of a disheveled home.

Today, I'm feeling really bad for my neighbors!

Orange peels, fast food bags, pop cans and other trash are revealing themselves after the snow melts. Courtesy of the strong winds we expereinced over the last few weeks, I'm sure!

Then there is the pile of yard decorations and patio furniture stacked, but not completely covered by the tarp that was once tightly secured around them for protection during the winter months.

When I look out the windows, I see all the ills of winter, calling for my attention.

I'd post a photo, but it's just too embarrassing!

My screens are intact.

We don't do blinds.

The trash can is in the backyard.

And if there are children's shoes or other apparel items, I don't know to whom they belong!

My yard is crying for some tender loving clean-up!

Cold and Weary

2011-02-04T11:21:00.003-07:00

Whine!

Are you like me? So very tired of this cold weather!

The irony is, we don't have it near as bad as folks in the Midwest.

This week I have been thinking, wondering and thinking.....

Thinking about how grateful I am that we weren't caught in freezing cold storms on a freeway somewhere.

Wondering if people who were stuck had provisions to carry them through the long hours of being stranded.

Thinking about how I need to look at our car bag, packed for such emergencies, to ensure it is up-to-date.

This past fall we made little, portable heaters for our cars but I don't think we ever put them in the duffel bags. Silly!

This afternoon, Val and his Scouts are going up to the Ogden Valley to spend the night and participate in the annual Klondike. Oh my gosh.... it will be so cold!

It is an understatement to say, I am so grateful for my warm home, cozy blankets, warm clothing and all the food I need. It is so sad to think not everyone enjoys this same blessing.

Be warm!

Tattling Toddlers

2010-12-11T15:41:00.008-07:00

Is there anything cuter than tattling toddlers?

Usually, we don't know exactly what they are saying, we can only smile and chuckle to ourselves while trying to acknowledge or fix the cause of their dismay.

A few weeks ago while visiting Paul & Heather at their new house (yes, they are homeowners!) Grandpa was doing what Grandpa loves best...

Rough housing with his grandchildren.

The feelings are mutual, I might add :)

Being the responsible and concerned Grandpa that he is, when Little Jesse (19 months) seemed to be getting a little over heated from all the rough housing, Grandpa stopped and helped Jesse take off his outer shirt.

Off Jesse toddled, to tattle to his Mommy!

Tattling, tattling, tattling until Mommy helped him put his shirt on.

Back he went to resume his rough housing with Grandpa!

A few days ago, upon returning from a visit to Lake Point, Laura, being the good and polite Mama that she is, helped Miss Delia (18 months) take off her shoes.

Off Delia toddled, to tattle on Mama!

Tattling, tattling, tattling while holding up her little foot, I really got an ear full.

After I empathized with her she seemed content and toddled off, to go about her business!

Grandchildren are the best!

Upstairs, Downstairs?

2010-11-06T12:24:00.004-06:00

Upstairs

Downstairs

Inside

Outside

On my clean floors

I feel my feet glide!

Whenever I 'do housework', I'm always in a quandary about where to begin.

If I start upstairs and work my way down......

When traipsing up and down the stairs, Val and I will surely bring the downstairs dirt, scraps of paper, lint, etc... upstairs.

Ditto for the opposite.

If I don't sweep the garage floor and vacuum the rug, first, all that dirt, sawdust, leaves, etc... comes inside.

Naturally, if I don't sweep the front steps all the dirt, bits of bark and leaves find their way into my freshly cleaned house.

Of course, the best answer to this befuddling dilemma is to take off our shoes when entering the house... well I do! But my sweet husband, that's another challenge.

Then there is always the ongoing challenge of bits of paper attaching themselves to our feet, shod or not, traveling upstairs and sticking to my just vacuumed or swept and dusted floors.

Arrgh!

A potential solution to this challenge would be for my cute husband to learn to do the computer version of cut and paste rather than the literal version of cut and paste.

Convincing him to take off his shoes when coming inside would definitely be easier!

Oh, how I wish my feet could happily glide on clean floors each and every day!

Good Things

2010-11-04T16:53:00.004-06:00

As a young lady living in Germany with my family, I would often fret about not being married. I was, after all, 21!

While working at the U.S. military commissary, I had a cute little boss, Louis Rozario. He was my height. Lou was retired military who opted to stay in Europe (he'd married a German Fraulein years before) and worked for the government after retiring.

Sometimes my co-workers would tease me about boys and marriage. They'd also embarrass me with comments about 'married' life. Lou would always come to my aid and/or defense, give me a hug and tell me....

Good things come to those who wait.

Boy was he ever right!

My wait was long but my good thing is an amazingly selfless, sincere, kind, sweet, talented, funny, romantic, valiant, hard-working, handsome husband.

He was feeling kind of dead the day this photo was taken. Poor guy worked so hard getting ready for Halloween, it nearly killed him!

Seriously, three days to set-up, three hours and over 500 trick-or-treators, three days to dismantle. It was hard work but he loves it!

Thanks for marrying me, my Valiant!

I love you. XOXOXOXO

Wow! Such an Amazing Blessing!

2010-10-19T14:30:00.002-06:00

Our neighborhood has suffered from a rash of petty thefts in the last few months.

Items left in cars go missing.

The police theorize the thieves sell stuff to pawn shops for cash.

Why don't they get real jobs?

My camera has been missing.

I've imagined it sitting in a local pawn shop, for sale.

It would be my own fault.

Naively, I often leave my car unlocked, sometimes with the keys in the ignition, in the driveway.

A few weeks ago I was called to be a Sunbeam teacher.

Not too happy about this one.

Imagining Kacen and Kellie as Sunbeams is what has kept me thinking positive.

Sunday, I had a drippy nose and was without a tissue. In our chapel and Relief Society room there are boxes of tissue next to or under the podium. I was sitting right next to the podium in the Primary room. While singing time was happening, I peeked under the podium in search of a tissue.

I found my camera, instead!

Can you believe it?

Val's missing camera was there, also!

We are so thankful for all the wonderful blessings we receive in our lives.

I can't wait to take photos....

Kacen's birthday party is tomorrow.

I must recharge the battery - now!

Have fun taking your own photos.

10 x 30 Challlenge

2010-10-11T14:27:00.004-06:00

Laura Michelle is participating in a 10 x 30 Challenge.

Each day, for 30 days, she will rid her house, and life, of 10 things.

Great idea, eh?

Here's the beginning of my list.....

30 magazines
1 High Chair
5 Brass Door Knob Sets
3 Stray Towels (not my colors - have no idea from whence they came)
1 Suitcase
14 Child size hangers (in pink)
10 Assorted Clothing Items
1 Glass Vase
1 Squirt Gun
1 Bike Lock
1 Book Holder
5 Assorted Books
1 Mouse Pad
1 Pair Scissors
1 Decorative Pitcher
2 DVD Cases
1 CD Case

So far, this is 80 items or 8 days!

I'm still adding and it is so liberating!

Wish I were this excited and motivated with shedding pounds, too!

I Did It!

2010-10-11T14:16:00.004-06:00

Yes, Siree.

I did it!

I switched the thermostat from Cool to Heat!

My cute Mom loved wearing sweats in the cooler months.

Always a matched set, too.

Along with her sweats, she'd wear a coordinating bandanna or other neckerchief.

I always thought it was because she wanted to dress-up her sweats.

After she passed away, somehow I ended up with her bandannas.

One winter morning while I was wearing sweats I tied on one of her bandannas.

Here I was, trying to create a Mommy Moment and had an enlightened moment, as well.

Not only was my sweet little Mom stylish, she was also very smart.

Why, that little neckerchief kept the back of my neck warm, too!

I sure do miss my Mom and her neckerchiefs.

Alona Marie Bagley

2010-09-18T11:20:00.010-06:00

Today is Miss Alona's birthday.

She is eight years old today.

Alona is our first grandchild.

It is fun to spend time with Alona.

She loves playing Hide-n-Seek with her grandpa.

She loves to read.

She has a beautiful smile.

She is very intelligent.

She has a fun personality.

She is very literal.

She is a good big sister.

She has one sister and two brothers.

Over the years we've had many opportunities to make memories with Alona.

The first time she spent the night with us she had a stuffed money she loved. Her mom told us she would be okay at bedtime as long as she had her monkey. That evening we arrived home after the sun had gone down. There was a beautiful moon and so before we went in the house we walked through the yard to show Alona the pretty moon. Unknowingly, Alona dropped her monkey in the garden.

While going through the bedtime routine we couldn't find the monkey! Grandpa looked in the car, he looked through the house, he looked in her bags to no avail. We couldn't find the monkey.

Alona was becoming a little distressed, wanting her monkey for comfort.

So, we said a little prayer and retraced our steps since we had arrived home. Since I'm a better looker/searcher, Grandpa held Alona while I went outside. Walking through the yard, I kicked something but couldn't tell what it was because of the darkness. I fetched a flashlight and went back outside to find the monkey... blending in the darkness of the garden.

We were all so thankful we found the monkey and Alona was able to have a restful night's sleep!

A few years ago Alona learned about the gold plates and how difficult it was for prophets to engrave on the plates. She also learned a strange writing style. She and I exchanged a few letters using the strange characters.

We also exchanged notes wrting our words backwards. It has been fun to do and especailly for me to sometimes refer to her as her backeard name... Anola!

We love you AlonAnolA!

Thanks for being part of our family and thank you for all of your hugs and kisses!

14. September. 1897

2010-09-16T14:15:00.004-06:00

The birthday of the lady whom I represented in the temple on Tuesday evening.

Tuesday was 14. September. 2010!

Awesome, eh?

I think so!

So Sad!

2010-09-15T12:14:00.003-06:00

I'm so sad.

I'm really pretty frustrated with myself too.

Back in July, I refinished our hardwood floors.

Naturally, part of the process was to empty the rooms of furniture. Before my curio cabinet could be moved, I had to remove all of my treasures... including my Lladro Christus.

A treasure my sweet husband gave to me many years ago when it debuted.

Yesterday I finally got the curio's glass and mirrors polished and the shelves back in place ready to restock the cabinet.

As I pulled a vase, which I inherited from my Mom who inherited it from my Grandmother Blakeley, I moved it from behind the Christus and hit His arm.

It broke off.

And when it hit the floor, His thumb and little finger broke off, too.

Just thinking about it and writing this makes my eyes tear and my tummy tumble.

My brother-in-law Brad teases us Blakeley girls about our graven images. Others may see it as such, too.

But... I love it. Whenever I look at this beautiful figurine, I am reminded of my Savior's sacrifice for me. I feel my Savior's love in all the world around me. I am so grateful for His love and sacrifice. For me. For you. For my loved ones.

As I held the broken pieces in my hand, I thought about how He hung, suffered and died on the cross for each of us. While my heart is sad that my Christus is not whole, we can each become whole through him.

My Christus will be restored.

My gratitude for and testimony of Him has been renewed.

Ode to White... For a Season!

2010-09-06T16:35:00.004-06:00

Well, today is the last day for wearing certain whites.

Easter to Labor Day.

Yesterday, to take advantage of this soon to expire fashion protocol, I wore my white skirt and white sandals to church!

It's okay with me.

Come Labor Day, I'm ready for a change. Temperatures are usually cooling, enticing me to wear warmer shoes and clothing.

So, I'll be putting away my white skirts, socks, shoes, belts and handbags.

How about you?

It means I get to change my bedding, too!

Yippee Skippee!

I still haven't found autumnal bedding I love, but I'm still looking!

Comforter, blankets, throws, cozy!

My Dad!

2010-09-06T15:19:00.004-06:00

My Dad, my Dad, my Dad, talking about my Dad!

My Dad!

Today my sweet Dad turns 80!

My Dad, GWB, is a depression baby.

He is also the 'baby' of the family.

GWB grew up in Ogden, Utah with his parents and siblings.

They lived on 12th Street and he attended Mound Fort Elementary School, Mound Fort Middle School and Ogden High School. His Uncle was the architect of Ogden High School.... a very cool building in it's time.

His parents were gardeners and grandpa worked for the railroad and was a tool and die maker.

GWB served an LDS mission to the Central States. Kentucky was his area.

After his mission he served in the Army during the Korean conflict. While stationed at Fort Ord, California, he met his future wife and my sweet Mom.

The story goes that while participating in Sacrament meeting, my Mom and her friend were a bit, shall we say, irreverent (noisy) and my Dad asked them to be quiet! After the meeting, he introduced himself and apologized for getting after her.

Upon completing his military service he moved his new little family, my Mom and oldest sister Jane, to Utah where they went about making a life for themselves.

Some of my cherished memories of my Dad........

The summer between 3rd and 4th grade, my Dad had to go on an extended TDY to Pennsylvania. Not wanting to be left home all summer with 6 children, my Mom arranged for all of us to join him. We stayed in Hershey, PA and it was awesome! That summer we travelled up and down the East Coast and traversed the Midwest to and from PA.

On our way to Pennsylvania, we took the southern route. While driving through New Mexico we made a pit stop. Because there weren't any facilities, my Dad ventured out into the wooded area. While 'out there' he found a tarantula and brought it back with him. That gargantuan spider lived in an empty peanut butter jar on the stove top of our trailer for a long time.

I hated that thing!

It was fuzzy, creepy and I really, really hated it.

Whenever it was my turn to clean the kitchen, I really loathed moving the bottle to wipe the counter/stove.

One morning we woke to a dead spider.

Hallelujah!

We think it must have been cooked to death the previous day while my Mom was preparing something that required a higher temperature.

When in 5th grade, I attended a maturation seminar with my other female classmates. During the seminar we received booklets with 'the drawings'. One day as I headed down the hall from my bedroom, there was my Dad on the stairs (the stairs I wanted to ascend) reading my booklet. I was horrified! So horrified I made a beeline to the bathroom and stayed there until he left. I was so, so embarrassed. What was he thinking reading a girls book with illustrations of fallopian tubes, et al? Really!

As a little girl with two older sisters, we had lots of Barbies. One year leading up to Christmas, my Dad worked in his shop every night. Whatever he was working on was so top secret, we had to kiss him goodnight with his head sticking out from the door of his shop. We were under strict orders to 'KEEP OUT'.

Christmas morning, we had the coolest Barbie Dollhouse with furniture and everything. My sweet Dad and my sweet Grandpa collaborated to make us a doll house with all the trimmings. Dad made the house and Grandpa made the furniture... Dining room tables and chairs, sofas, end tables, beds, closets, everything a Barbie could need. Of course I didn't know until years later it was a Father Son collaboration. I thought Santa and his elves made the wonderful Barbie Pad!

When you grow-up in a home with five siblings, one on one time with Dad is rare. Especially when he worked two jobs. Well, at the ripe old age of 24 I required oral surgery. At that time I was living in Seattle, alone. I was also new to the area and didn't really know anyone I felt comfortable calling on to help me when I had the surgery. So my Dad flew from Battle Creek, Michigan, where he and my Mom were living, to take care of me. He came for a week!

As I drove to the airport to pick-up my Dad I remember having a moment of panic. I was nervous about what we would do with each other for a whole week... just the two of us. It had never happened before.

We had an amazing time!

Seattle was the first place I lived on my own. Because of that, I wasn't fully equipped with household goods. Dad went shopping with me to insure I bought the right type of box spring and mattress. He helped me arrange my furniture, went sight seeing with me to the Space Needle, Pikes Place Market and other fun downtown haunts and he cared for me post surgery.

Interestingly, because he didn't live in the area, and wasn't familiar with it either, I drove to the surgeon's office. Still woozy from sedation, my Dad had to drive me home... I slept the entire way home (about 30 minutes drive time). Later that day when I woke and felt somewhat normal I wondered how my Dad knew to find his way back to my apartment. He told me that every time he needed to make a turn I would sit up and direct him, then lay back down until the next turn. I had no recollection of the drive home. Our spirits are amazing, aren't they?

Those are just a few of the many memories I have of my wonderful Dad.

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Thank you for giving me such an amazing life filled with love and support. I'll love you forever!

Another Honey Do

2010-08-23T09:00:00.008-06:00

Honey and his dog, Lucky
Midway, Utah

This week Val and I took Honey to Wyoming.

He was born and raised in Star Valley, Wyoming and loves going up there as often as possible. Unfortunately, due to his declining health, Honey isn't able to spend as much time as he would like in his beloved Star Valley.

Val's Mother was also born and raised in Star Valley. Just down the street from Honey. Caren's father, Grandpa Chadwick, was the bishop of the Fairview Ward for many years. In fact, his photograph still hangs in the Bishop's Office along with all of the other Bishops who've served the people of Fairview.

Honey with Val on Horse
(Val - 1 year)

Guess what? Val was born in Star Valley, too!

Being the only child of LaDell and Caren Bagley to be born there, he loves that unique fact. Yet another thing to set him apart from his siblings!

When Val was just 6 weeks old, Honey took his young wife and infant son to California. Off to make a life for he and his young family.

While living in California he really missed Wyoming. He missed the clouds, beautiful mountains, fishing, riding horses, visiting family and friends and rural surroundings and neighborly kindnesses big cities sometimes lack.

So, each summer his two week vacation was spent in Utah and Wyoming soaking in all that he missed.

Honey didn't miss Utah. His father and mother-in-law had moved from Afton to Murray, so they spent some of their vacation visiting the Chadwicks.

Three Generations of Bagley Boys
Honey, Val and Jared at Fairview Cemetery
(Memorial Day, 2009)

After Honey retired from SavOn Drug, he and Caren moved to Utah. While living in the Salt Lake are, Honey scouted out some property in Midway. This property enabled him to acquire horses and enjoy some of his favorite hobbies of yesteryear.

Honey, Paul and Shadow
(First Midway Home)

Eventually, they built a home on their property and moved to Midway. Often times folks would ask him why he didn't move back to Star Valley. His reply was always the same...

It's too cold!

Because his parents passed away unexpectedly in the early 1970s, their estate went to probate. To keep the property in the family, Honey continued to pay the property taxes. Year after year he'd pay. Finally, in the mid 1990s, he was able to buy out his siblings to become the sole owner of the B House and surrounding property.

Honey, Chad, Brandon and Andrew
in Honey's Truck
(Midway, Utah)

Although his visits are less frequent, Honey still loves to go to Fairview to spend time puttering around, visiting family and friends and reflecting on his life.

We love going spending time with him, too!

Thanks for the memories, Honey! We love you.

Ahhh! Summer Love

2010-07-26T10:31:00.003-06:00

Yippy Skippy!

It's harvest time in our garden!

Tomatoes!

Sweet tomatoes!

Bring on the good eatin!

I love summer!

And Utah tomatoes!

Is this enough exclamation points for you? ;)

I Heard it on the Radio

2010-07-14T13:00:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, while working on my summer project - refinishing the hardwood floors - I listened to the radio. The program, The Diane Rehm Show, featured Ayelet Waldman, a female author, who recently released a book about death and grief.

A book previously written Ms. Waldman titled Bad Mother: A Chronicle of Maternal Crimes, Minor Calamities and Occasional Moments of Grace was brought up by a caller.

I haven't read the book being featured on the program, Red Hook Road, or the book, Bad Mother.

A statement by the author caught my attention...

"Motherhood is the ultimate unrequited love."

Hmmm!

True, I suppose, in some ways.

She went on to say children grow-up, leave home, make a life for themselves and don't include you in their lives.

Hmmm!

Isn't that what's supposed to happen?

Grow-up

Leave home

Make a life for yourself

Qualify "include you in their lives."

Spending time with our children is one of my most favorite things to do.

Would I want to be included in everything they do? No.

If motherhood is an unrequited love, it's only temporary.

When your children go out to make a life of their own, especially if they have children, too, they usually 'get it'...

All that love, hard work, love, discipline, love, teaching them to work, love, teaching them to be honest, love, teaching them to be responsible, and love we've invested in our children is recognized.

They get it.

Hopefully they appreciate it.

They return the love and appreciation.

It's the circle of life.

Not unrequited love!

In the spirit of full disclosure.... we have wonderful children. Much to the credit of their Mother, who had the lion's share of influence on them.

Usually, all the bad habits children develop come from their friends, or at least Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and/or cousins! Or, friends...

Stigmas

2010-07-08T22:53:00.003-06:00

Isn't it interesting how many stigmas there are in life.

Isn't it sad we let ourselves get caught in some of these stigmas.

I've always taken pride in the fact that whenever I went to the Doctor, I could proudly say no to the question of "Taking any medications?"

It isn't the case any longer.

Blood pressure medication.

Yep. I'm now taking it.

If I didn't take it I could still answer 'the question' in the negative.

Why?

What will I be accomplishing by not taking the medicine... just so I can say "no" to 'the question'?

Silly pride.

Isn't it better to take prescribed medication so I can have fuller life?

High blood pressure can be a silent killer if left unattended.

There are lots of wonderful people and opportunities in my life.

I don't want to miss out.

Okay, I'll take it.

Regularly.

As prescribed.

It will be difficult, but it will be worth it.

Stigmas.

Who needs them?

Alone Time

2010-07-08T21:59:00.005-06:00

Val's participating in Trek.

He returns home Saturday.

Monday he leaves for Scout camp.

I thought I would enjoy having some alone time.

But I don't.

While my sweet husband is gone we are missing, Andrew's BMT graduation, Delia's first birthday, the Lavendar Festival, Arnold Friberg's funeral, Summer, each other.

Woe is me!

The Passing of a Legend

2010-07-01T11:27:00.008-06:00

Val's hero passed away today.

Ironically, today is also the 20th anniversary of The Cartoonist Guy.

World renowned artist, Arnold Friberg, passed away at the age of 96.

Mr. Friberg had a huge influence on Val when he was developing his artistic style.

A few years ago we were able to see an exhibit of the work he did for the movie The Ten Commandments. The exhibit included the one of the original robes Charleston Heston wore as Moses. There were also photographs and renderings of all the beautiful costumes he designed.

A few years before the exhibit, we were also able to attend an event where he was the guest speaker. It was a wonderful evening where Val was able to meet and visit with Mr Friberg and get his autograph!

Happy Anniversary, Honey! I'm sorry for the passing of your hero.

Lonely Days, Lonely Nights

2010-06-04T15:58:00.003-06:00

...Where would I be without out my Valiant?

In my early twenties, I had a friend and later roommate who would sometimes say, after meeting a guy.... Oh, I could be married to him if he were a traveling salesman! Her way of nicely saying.... not my type!

Being self-employed, Val doesn't travel with his job. Once a year he may go to an out of town convention, but for the most part he's always home. A fact of which I am most grateful!

Even though I lived many years as a single woman, I've adapted to having my man around and feel safe.

If it is windy, thunderous or otherwise stormy when Val is gone, I hate it!

He just left for an overnight Pre-Trek event.

Next month he'll be gone for almost two weeks with Trek and Scout Camp.

I really miss him when he's gone :)

Mem-o-ries from the Street Where I Lived!

2010-05-16T11:16:00.004-06:00

This past Thursday, driving home from an appointment in Sandy, I drove past a street bearing the name Crocus Street.

When living in Germany, many, many years ago, I lived on a street named Crocus Way (Weg). As I continued my drive through Sandy, bound for the interstate, I began to rehearse in my mind all the names of the streets I've lived on...

Ross Drive - a perfect street to grow-up on! With the big island right out our front door and the middle path right next to our yard, we had it made moving about the neighborhood. The Arc Light, as we called it (street light) was right across the street at the base of the big island. If we were out playing, we knew we had to be home when the arc light came on. Dad would whistle for us when it was time to eat, or Mom wanted us home earlier than the arc light would dictate. We almost always heard his whistle.

At one point, there were three policeman living on our street. We did have a 'stalker' which caused us scary times but otherwise, life was great.

I learned to ride my bike, without training wheels, before my older sisters, I might add, on Ross Drive. Jane and Charmalee were arguing about taking turns with our only bicycle and so Mom sent them inside, to their room for time out. Gloriously, I was able to stay outside, just the bike and I, where I mastered the art of bicycle balancing! That's how I remember it and I'm sticking to my story!

Grandpa Long, also lived on our street, a widower who always had a sucker for us when we'd knock upon his door.

Party lines were the norm in those days. We shared a line with Mrs. Spickers, a beloved Primary teacher of mine... when Primary Days were during the week.

It seemed like I never had a penny for our Primary Children's Hospital bank... a model of the original hospital with an opening in the chimney where we could drop a penny or two during opening exercises each week.

The front door in our house on Ross Drive didn't lock. One evening, my parents were out on a date. Corey Jenkins was our babysitter that evening (boy babysitters seemed so much more fun, they would actually play with us). Anyhoo, I always worried that the front door didn't lock and on this particular evening we were playing a board game, in the living room, in front of the front door. Suddenly, someone knocked on the door which sacred me to death. Corey answered the door to two strangers, a man and woman. The man was wearing a hat, much like our aforementioned stalker, and they both had glasses with tinted lenses, but not as dark as sunglasses. It was dark outside, we didn't know who they were and so Corey didn't invite them in.

The next morning, I came upstairs and who do you think were sitting at the kitchen table, eating breakfast? That man and woman! I thought my parents must be daft. Turns out it was my Mom's Aunt Mary and Uncle Arlee Robbins, from Salem, Oregon!

Uncle Arlee worked at a paper mill and kindly brought us about 5 reams of paper, all different colors! I sure was glad my Mom let them come inside.

2050 West - street numbers are so, boring. We moved to this house the summer between my 7th and 8th year of school. This house was on a corner and it was my responsibility to do the yard work during the summer. We had so much grass, mowing was a torture. It was easy to get up on the roof and I remember a few times sunbathing up there.

We hosted some pretty fun parties at our home on 2050 West. Mom always prepared the most yummy treats and she and Dad would join the fun, playing games and mingling with our friends. Our parties were some of the few that didn't garner a visit from the police. Must have been our fun parents, eh!

My parents also hosted a garden reception in our beautiful backyard for my sister Charmalee and her groom, Reid.

Even though their wedding and reception were in late June, Dad insisted Charmalee have a back-up location and list it on the invitations... In case of inclement weather, the reception will be held at...

Lucky for her, inclement weather held off until later that evening while we were cleaning up.

Thelma Drive - a street without fences and many, many pools. Mom would build a fire in the fireplace even in the summer months. She loved fires! Some days we could smell the bitter aroma of a bad batch of Post cereal, many miles away. We'd often say "Someone must have burned the Cocoa Puffs."

Walkmuhl Strasse - a beautiful Afghan dog lived on this quiet street and there was a cigarette vending machine on the corner, across the street! We roasted a pig on our next door neighbors patio for my birthday one year. The sight almost caused an accident on this otherwise quiet strasse.

Krokus Weg - another quiet street where we experienced an ice storm on winter day. Even after all these years I can still see, in my mind, the face of a cute little German lady with a fearful but ironic smile on her face as she slid into our car. It was barely a tap and we both went about our cold day, driving ever so carefully.

Earl's Court Gardens - My living accommodations were dormitory style with bathtubs, no showers and the water heaters were only turned on for two hours in the morning and two hours in the evenings. It was virtually impossible for all of us to bathe each day... too many girls. I washed my hair in cool water on more than one occasion. Did I mention how much I loath baths.

Pooper scoopers, or responsible dog owners were in very short supply in London. Dodging dog droppings really kept me on my toes when I'd walk to the bus station. Going in the opposite direction, when I'd take the Tube, the sidewalks weren't as 'littered'.

Each Sunday morning, while walking to church, I'd go out the door, turning right, head to the corner, turn right again, walk a short distance to the next corner and turn left. As I walked down that street, I'd slow my pace and look at the town homes, imagining how wealthy the tenants must be living inside. Clean sidewalks, groomed gardens leading up to the doors and crystal chandeliers in the entryway (visible from the clerestory windows).

The spring/summer we returned to the USA was the same year Lady Diana married Prince Charles. Through all of the press coverage I learned that she was one of the tenants, living in one of the town homes, on the street I'd slowly walk along, on my way to church!

200 North - where my sister Jane opened her home to me. I didn't want to return to Thelma Drive, with my parents, so Jane let me dwell with her, and her family. Jane's daughter Jennifer, was about 5 years old then. One day, she and her friend, Laurie, came downstairs with a feminine pad and asked me what it was for. I said she should ask her Mom and Jenny replied, "She told us to ask you." Ha! What a nice sister. :)

These are just a few of the streets I've lived on. In the future, I'll add more streets, and most likely more memories from the ones already listed.

What streets have you lived on?

Another Life Changing Event in our Future

2010-04-30T12:25:00.004-06:00

Andrew James Bagley joined the Air Force a few months back.

Monday, May 10th, he meets his recruiter (I think) and after spending the night in Salt Lake City (I think, again), he leaves Tuesday for San Antonio, Texas to attend Basic Training.

Val and I are really proud of him.

Making this decision wasn't an easy one and wasn't without challenges.

However, it was an adult decision and if all goes as planned, will enable him, and his sweet wife Natalie, to continue to make a life and family, together.

It's just no fun having children scattered hither and yon.

Although.... I do love the great deals we get from Southwest Airlines! :)

I'd Like to Buy a ... Consonant, Please!

2010-04-29T13:58:00.007-06:00

Do you type by touch?

Or, is your typing ability like my husband and I... hunt -n- peck?

Well, actually, Val's typing style is really hunt -n- pound!

Cringing is common for me when I'm near Val as he types on his laptop.

Nagging, is common for me, too.

"Don't hit the keys so hard, Honey. You'll break them if you aren't careful."

Or, when I'm trying to foster the love we have at home, you can hear me coach...

"Softly, softly, press the keys softly."

The J key on Laura's laptop is missing the button.

Not too surprising considering her supreme love for Ju-Ju-Bees.

On the few occasions I've used her computer, I wasn't affected by the missing J button. The rare times I needed to hit the J key, I confess I feared receiving an electrical shock of sorts. Much to my surprise, it didn't happen!

But on Val's laptop, the B isn't working.

Ever thought about how often you use the B?

Being a Bagley, and formerly a Blakeley, and having lots of Bagley Boys in our family, not to mention Bagley and Blakeley grandparents, I also drive a Beetle with a Bugly car tag.

Blogging is something I enjoy, because it's a journal for me.

Besides, my sweet Bagley husband appreciates me assisting him with is Scouting responsibilities.

If ever you receive an email from me, or read a Blog Post, with an inordinate amount of typos... where it appears a b is missing, you are safe to assume my communique' originated from my sweet husband's computer!

Sometimes, I hate being right!

Sweet Words

2010-04-12T12:31:00.017-06:00

Have you ever noticed...

If a routinely ornery person speaks harshly, people accept it and move on...

When an otherwise kind, sweet, easy going (whatever adjective you prefer) person speaks with an edge, they are chastised...

Ever noticed?

In my youth, I must have been an otherwise kind, sweet, easy going (insert whichever adjective you prefer) girl. I know this because if I ever lost patience with someone and raised my voice, had an edgy tone or spoke harshly, my sweet Mom (or my kind Dad or my siblings) got after me.

Gasp, then in a lower than normal tone of voice I'd hear... Ruth!

Still happens to me, sometimes.

So when I hear my daughter and daughter-in-law encourage their children to use their sweet words, I'm impressed! In fact, it helps me respond in a more positive vein when interacting with others.

Laura doesn't correct Kellie by telling her the words to use... if Kellie forgets to say please when asking for another taste, toy or help, Laura simply encourages Kellie by saying... "Oh, try another way, please."

Kellie understands and rephrases her request... with her sweet words!

In my opinion, apologizing falls in the Sweet Words category.

Ever noticed how some folks don't ever apologize?

Yes, it's difficult to admit a weakness, or that we were wrong, or impatient, or insensitive.

But an olive branch can mend so many fences.

Like how I mix metaphors? :)

Learning the art of apology and using that skill can help strengthen relationships.

It can also help you further your career.

The business world can be cut throat. Those who are humble enough to admit errors and apologize when things go awry, are seen as having strength of character.

Another thing about Laura's parenting style that impresses me is her ability to apologize to Kellie when Mama loses her patience, or sweet words, sometimes.

We are products of our environment.

The way children respond and interact with others comes from what they learn at home. Or, how they are spoken to, at home.

And yes, my heart melts when I hear Kellie apologize to others when she feels it is necessary.

Late one evening, a few weeks ago, Kellie was having a difficult time going to sleep. Daddy and Mama let her join them while folding laundry, Kellie was excited to be able to help... saying, "Oh, I can help fold the wipes!"

Folding the wipes at the Gent house is somewhat of a funny thing because... you don't really fold them... you simply stack!

But, hey! When a 3 year-old wants to help with the laundry, I say capitalize on the moment!

Anyhoo, I happened to be talking to Laura on the phone that late evening a few weeks back when she asked Kellie if she'd like to talk to Grammie.

While talking to me, Kellie was trying to get herself situated on the sofa next to Mama and I heard Kellie say...

"Oh, I'm sorry Mama, I didn't mean to kick you."

A classic case of living what she learns!

I just love spending time with my grandchildren and sharing sweet words with each other.

Tomorrow, Grandpa and I are traveling to Provo to attend Abbi's dance recital. I'm so excited to see Abbi perform the dance she has been learning and practicing.

I'm also excited to spend time with her sister and brothers.

A few evenings ago, I was able to talk with them on the telephone. It's fun to talk to each of them and learn what's going on in their lives.

Alona and I talk about what she is learning in school, what book she is currently reading and what she's been doing in her Daisy troop. Currently she is learning about the weather and practicing math equations for end of year testing. She is also reading a book about a boy who babysits.

Abbi likes to tell me what's happening in her life, too. Many times the conversations start with a "Guess what, Grandma?" She told me about her costume for the dance recital, who'll be going to watch her and going for a walk with Mom. She's a little bit sick at the moment, too.

Kacen is becoming more of a conversationalist.

For the most part, we get a Yes or No response to our questions.

Sometimes, though, his little personality shines through the phone line and he leaves us laughing.

One time we asked him what he had for dinner. After a pregnant pause he replied...

"Cookies."

Its funny on a few levels...

First, his delivery is perfectly timed.

Second, if you know his Mommy, you know there is no way Cookies is what he had for dinner. As a treat afterward, maybe... but not dinner.

Heather works very hard ensuring her children get healthy, balanced meals.

This last conversation was fun, too.

We shared a laugh together about Grandpa.

Since it was almost time for bed, I asked him if he was wearing his Spiderman pajamas. He said no, he was wearing his Lighting McQueen pjs. I then asked if that meant he would go to sleep really fast... like Lighting McQueen.

"Yes." was his reply.

Kacen also told me he was going to play hide-n-seek with Grandpa when we come over on Saturday. I asked if he was going to hide really fast... like Lighting McQueen? and he replied...

"Yes."

Then I asked if Grandpa was going to find him really fast, like Lighting McQueen?

Kacen replied... "No, he's gonna be like... (?)."

Not understanding his last word, I asked, Is Grandpa going to find you slow, like Mater?

Kacen chuckled and said, "Yes!"

Yep!

I love sweet words and I love talking to my grandchildren!

March Madness - Part Two

2010-04-12T12:31:00.012-06:00

It has always been something I've felt bad about, our children having to split their time between so many parents, in-laws and grandparents. It is especially challenging for them during holidays and after they marry... and in Laura's case, when she comes home for a visit.

However, I try to adopt Laura's attitude about this aspect of their lives.... 'It's more people to love me and especially my children!'

True to form, and her ever conscientious self, Laura Michelle did an amazing job dividing her time in Utah between all of Kellie and Delia's grandparents.

It is hardest on her, driving hither and yon, packing, unpacking, adapting to varied personal preferences and habits at each home, yet always sharing her sweet daughters with us, affording us the opportunity to make memories together.

After spending a week with her Mom, Laura headed back our way to spend time with Brian's Mom, Lori. Because Lori works during the day, Laura and the girls would come to our house sometimes and hang-out with us.

This extra time with them enabled me to enlist Laura's help preparing for the Fourth Annual Easter Egg Hunt.

Because she and Brian lived in Alaska for 3+ years, this was her first opportunity to participate and I enlisted her help. Which meant it wasn't much of a surprise for her. :/

In retrospect, however, I think her enthusiasm pushed me to do more than I had in years past. In the end, she was a huge help and we had fun!

During one of our jaunts to the store, on March 17th, I made the observation that Miss Kellie was wearing green, which was good because the Leprechauns wouldn't pinch her, they would kiss her instead.

Being the literal girl that she is... this was a big mistake, on my part! She stopped dead in her tracks, waving her little hand back and forth saying... "No, Grammie, I don't want them to kiss me."

"Oh, I don't think you need to worry. It's getting late and I think they probably left Utah", I replied.

"Where are they going, Grammie?", she asked.

"Well, I think they're on their way to Colorado." Another big mistake on my part.

"No, no, no, Grammie, I don't want them to go see my Daddy."

"Well, I don't think they'll be able to get on base, so we don't need to worry about Daddy. He'll be safe", I tried reassuring her.

After two phone calls to the Leprechauns and a few worrisome conversations (Kellie was the worried one) we determined the Leprechauns were no longer in Utah, nor were they in Colorado Springs.

In reality, they were on their way back to Ireland, where they live, and would stay until next year.

What were they doing, you ask?

Why, riding rainbows, of course!

As well as looking for more pots of gold.

One day we just stayed at our house, enjoying each others company.

Grandpa was working on a project with a looming deadline.

He listens to music when he colors. It's too distracting when drawing and working on layouts and such. But when he colors, out comes the boombox, up goes the volume and out comes the tunes.

Grandpa also likes to sing along. Or whistle.

One day, as we played and visited in the family room, Grandpa was downstairs coloring and listening to the Beach Boys.

Little Miss Delia's little rhythm kicked in and her arms and legs started moving to the beat.

This is a short clip of Mama, Kellie and Delia dancing with Grandpa.

Oh, disappointment..... the full clip didn't load. I'll see if I can fix it, soon.

We were also able to squeeze in a trip to the Delta Center... (I mean Energy Solutions Arena) for Disney on Ice.

Although this was billed as a Princess show, not all of the princess took to the ice.

Was Kellie disappointed? Not in the least.

She was so taken with all of the 'princesses' she saw walking about the arena (the other little patrons attending the show) that we didn't know if we'd make it to our seats in time. She recognized the trappings of every 'princess' we passed.

Sometimes it's hard to gauge how different things are being received by little ones.

A few years ago we had the opportunity to take Alona and Abbi to the Circus, at the same arena. They are such quiet, laid back, little girls (much like their parents), they sat so very quietly through the event. We worried they might not be enjoying themselves.

Silly me!

We all had a great time and they remembered much of what they saw, months and months later.

Is Kellie hard to read? Mmmm, not so much!

The first few times she saw other little girls dressed in their princess attire I thought she would suck all of the air out of Salt Lake City.

HUGE Gaaaasp. Mama, there's Snow White!

Another HUGE Gaaaasp. Mama, there's Cinderella!

During intermission we hiked up the steps to the concession level in search of the Ladies Room. The seats were scattered with every type, shape and size of princesses you can imagine. Almost at the top, Kellie spotted three little princesses with their Grandmother.

"Oh!" she said. "There's and old princess, too!

She was intrigued with the entire production, standing most of the time, swinging to the music and pointing out all of the people down on the ice. Even little Miss Delia enjoyed the show, her cute little arms and legs flapping and swinging to the beat of the music.

After the show, Laura headed to her Mom's so Kelly could look at her squeaky brakes and Grandpa and I met Steve & Ellen at the South Towne Expo Center for the Home Show.

Grandpa bought himself a Tech Tap Massager, which he loves and I bought a MoJo.

I love making memories with our grandchildren!

Coming Soon: March Madness - Part Three

Flowers

2010-04-12T12:31:00.009-06:00

I. Love. Spring. Flowers.

I. Love. Spring.

Soggy ground and all!

March Madness - Bagleys - Not Basketball

2010-04-07T17:34:00.000-06:00

This year has been pretty fun!

March was especially fun, a bit hectic, but fun, nonetheless!

March 1st I flew to Denver, Colorado where, at 7:30pm, Laura Michelle picked me up at the airport and we headed to Utah with Kellie and Delia. When I got in the car, both girls were crying and Laura? Cool as a cucumber, speaking calmly and reassuringly that we'd be stopping soon and Kellie could be free of her car seat, for a time. Delia was most likely crying because of her big sister's cries.

It is also important to note, Laura's demeanor, cool as a cucumber, was impressive because she had been pulled over for speeding while en route to the airport. I would have been grumpy and rattled. Thank you Ms. Colorado Highway Patrolwoman for not citing Laura and for visiting with her for a few minutes before sending her on her way! Your empathy is so appreciated.

Even though I had just been in Colorado visiting Laura and her family in February, it was fun to be with the girls again. Of course, we stopped at Village Inn for dinner before letting Carmin (my name for Laura's GPS voice) takeover our course of travel.

Kellie was a little sad because Mama had forgotten to pack Kellie's new shoes, with sparkles, so Mama had to carry Miss Kellie in to the restaurant. Delia was all smiles!

Kellie chose my dinner for me, Chicken Fried Steak, from a photograph on the menu. Sweet, eh! I didn't order it. I had miles of driving ahead of me and didn't want to get sleepy from a high fat dinner. To be honest, I don't remember what I ordered. I just know a salad was included and Kellie and I shared it! She likes to share food with me and I love it!

We travelled the northern route to Utah, via Evanston, Wyoming and it was a very uneventful trip. Although it is a longer drive than the southern route, we were leery of winter weather conditions and had the memory of Paul and Heather's trip home from Colorado still on our minds. In November, Paul hit a deer on their way home and the deer totaled the Bagley mobile.

We did pass one deer, that I saw, on the diagonal, but it was running away from the highway.

A few pit stops for gas and personal relief, landed us in Utah, at the airport where my car was parked, at 7:15am. I arrived home at 8am and Laura arrived in Lake Point at 7:40am - I think.

Not bad, eh!

It did take a couple of days to recover from not sleeping that night.

Believe it or not, that was the first time in my whole life I stayed awake more than 24 hours!

Laura and the girls stayed in Lake Point with her Mom and Kelly for a week then headed our way for the remainder of their visit, staying with Grandma Lori for a week and with us for a week!

In the meantime, on Friday, March 5th, Val took his scout troop on an overnight camp out and I had an unexpected sleepover with Heather and her crew!

Heather's plan had been to spend the night at ther sister's home, in Layton, but it didn't work out as hoped. So, I was able to benefit! :)

Heather and Jesse slept in the family room, Alona and Kacen slept on the floor in Grandpa's changing room and Abbi? She slept with me!

For such a petite little thing, she is a bed hog!

A few times during the night I was whacked in the face with her little hand. One time it even stayed on my face while she was sleeping. At least Abbi got some sleep, right? :)

While trying to go back to sleep after a love pat from Miss Abbi, I laid there thinking about what I was going to feed them for breakfast. When they arrived on Friday evening, Alona hadn't eaten dinner because she didn't like the shepherd's pie that was served at Aunt Crystal's and I certainly didn't want to send her to bed hungry. So I fixed her a grilled cheese sandwich in an already messy kitchen.

It has become a tradition that when Val takes his Scouts on an over nighter, I prepare hot chocolate for him to take along... giving the boys something warm to drink while unpacking their gear and digging snow caves to sleep.

On a recent grocery shopping trip, I bought a can of hot chocolate mix and grabbed Cherry Chocolate, by mistake. Ugh!

I took advantage of our hot chocolate tradition with the Scouts and sent the Cherry Chocolate flavor!

That particular camp out Val had the scouts write me thank you notes and a few of the boys requested mint hot chocolate 'next time'! Don't blame them!

Back to my middle of the night thinking... My kitchen was particularly messy because I prepared the hot chocolate and a Hobo dinner (aka: tin foil dinner) for Val to take with him. Andrew, who also likes to camp, went with Val this particular time and so Natalie came to our house with him, to meet up with his Dad.

Natalie stayed for a while and we were able enjoy a nice visit. After she left, I worked on laundry and other things but thought I'd clean the kitchen in the morning!

Loathsome is how I feel about cooking in an already messy kitchen.

There I lay, with Abbi's little hand on my cheek, worrying about how I could pull-off breakfast with a minimal amount of stress.

The solution came to me... in 4 letters... IHOP!

With a plan in place, I drifted back to sleep for a few more hours!

Come morning, Alona and Kacen joined Abbi and I in bed for Saturday morning cartoons. I'm a little rusty on said TV programming, but Alona and Abbi were able to help me find some.

Kacen was so cute. Each time he saw a familiar cartoon, he'd turn to me and say, "Grandma, we have that cartoon at our house, too!"

After breakfast, Heather brought the girls and I home and off she went, with the boys, to deliver girl scout cookies to family and friends in Weber and Davis counties.

Grandpa and Andy returned from their camp out about the same time Natalie arrived to retrieve her birthday boy husband.

Alona and Abbi and I were happy Grandpa was home so we could play a little hide-n-seek... a loved past time at our house with grandchildren. It is especially fun when they tell us where they will hide or where they are hiding. It makes the seeking so much more challenging!

When Heather and the boys returned, Kacen migrated outside to help Grandpa unpack his car.

We girls and Jesse were having fun when I realized I hadn't seen Kacen for a while so I went outside to see if he was with Grandpa. Abbi was right behind me and climbed in the car with her brother to have some fun in Grandpa's car.

The last time Kacen and Abbi spent unaccompanied time in Grandpa's car they decorated his dash board with a sharpie they found in the car. :/ Grandpa is so particular about some aspects of how his car looks! But hey, the sharpie was black, his dashboard is almost black... what's the worry!

Anyhoo, Abbi and Kacen were in the car having fun and I asked Miss Abbi where Mr. Kacen (at the wheel) was taking her.... "We're going to New York for Girl Scouts." she replied!

Abbi loves pink. Abbi loves fairies. Abbi loves to dress-up.

New York seems like the logical place for Girl Scouts!

A conversation and inquiry ensued between Kacen and I a few minutes later.

Kacen: I need my wallet.

Me: Your wallet?

Kacen: I need my wallet.

Me: Why do you need your wallet?

Abbi: Because he's taking me to New York City, Grandma.

Me to Kacen: How old are you?

Kacen: I'm three.

Me: Three? But you need to be sixteen to drive.

Kacen: Oh.

Kacen: I need my keys and my wallet.

Me: Are you 16, and old enough to drive?

Kacen: Yes. I need my keys and my wallet.

Me: How old are you?

Kacen: 16 3.

Kacen is such a hoot!

He has such a well developed sense of humor for such a young tyke.

Not long after that fun interchange between Kacen and I, Heather loaded her crew in the car and headed home.

Unexpected sleepovers are so fun!

Part Two of March Madness coming soon!

An Open Letter to Our President

2010-04-07T13:25:00.005-06:00

Dear Mr. President:

In the spirit of full disclosure, I did not vote for you. However, when you were elected I was cautiously hopeful.

Now... I'm very frustrated. Well, I'm always frustrated with government and politics but this being tax season, I'm very frustrated.

My husband and I are current on our mortgage, try to live within our means, don't carry credit card debt, participate in charitable giving, pay our property taxes, continually work on beautifying our home and yard, serve in our community and within our church congregation.

Why, we even recycle! Even though our community doesn't have an organized recycling program. Which, yes, means we pay extra to be responsible to/for Mother Earth.

We also completed our 2010 Census form. Personally, I think it will be neat, if in 100 years, some of our ancestors look at the 2010 Census and see where we were living. It's really fun to look back on old census data and find my ancestors, too!

Even though I am very frustrated, I too am extremely grateful.

My gratitude comes in part because we don't have to go through the process, and extreme worry, of applying for mortgage relief or worry about unemployment benefits running out.

Personally, I am extremely grateful for my husband's talents and the opportunity he has to make a living using his talents. It is wonderful that he can work at home, too. Utah drivers are scary and irresponsible, especially in winter weather driving conditions. Plus, I don't think very many Utahns have taken the Oprah Winfrey No Phone Zone Pledge. Yes, Mr. President, I've taken the pledge. Have you, your family and your staff? You can go to www.Oprah.com to pledge.

Even though our 401(k) and IRA values have been battered, like most Americans, we are grateful we can continue to save for our future. Also, we are grateful our community credit union is on solid financial footing.

Although my husband and I don't currently have health insurance, we are grateful for our basic good health.

As a side note: The jury is still out on health care reform. Although I've tried, a few times, to read the health care reform package, I give up because of all the strike throughs, amendments, and non-health care related programs/spending and other rubbish that has been allowed to be attached to this important piece of legislation.

Mr. President, I apologize for getting off track on the main theme of my letter. Please forgive me.

Here it is tax season, again, and I've be come my annual grouchy self. Grouchy because our tax code is so confusing, cumbersome and downright greedy. Grouchy because even if I didn't feel like I have a reading comprehension challenge, the forms, instructions and definitions don't seem to be in English.

Here are my suggestions for easing my tax season angst and improve our country's tax system and huge appetite for money. They aren't in any particular order, just good suggestions...

Throw away the tax code and impose a flat tax.
Charge patrons a nominal fee to visit government landmarks, historical sites, museums and other edifices that are currently free to the public. The people who may lose their jobs with the IRS (due to the flat tax) can work as accountants who will account for all of the monies collected at these aforementioned sites.
Stop giving federal tax breaks to corporations. They don't use the money they've saved to increase their employees wages. They use it to give themselves bigger bonuses. Duh!
Go after Medicare Fraud. In fact, go after all government fraud.
Give current government employees, currently in debt to the U.S. government because of unpaid taxes, a deadline to meet their tax obligation. If the deadline isn't met, terminate them and let honest, tax paying citizens fill the vacancies.
Stop taking more than 500 people to world summits and other meetings. Really Mr. President. Did you really need to take your own chef, six doctors, "the beast" and even bottled water, to London? Okay, sorry, I'm sounding bitter when I only want to sound helpful.

There are many other things you and our government officials, employees and citizens can do to reduce spending, but I'm feeling weary and really should get back to my burdensome taxes.

In closing, Mr. President, I just have one request... will you please stop weighing down the middle class with taxes? Please?

Sincerely,

Ruth Bagley

Split Affections

2010-03-04T12:33:00.005-07:00

Have you ever seen the movie Split Infinity? It is a Feature Family Films movie produced in 1992. Some of my nieces, and maybe my nephew, were extras in the movie. A portion of the movie was filmed on location in Layton, in this really neat house on Gentile Street. The title of my post reminded me of that movie. Random thoughts are fun sometimes!

On to split affections.... my affections really aren't split. I love, love, love all of my grand-children. However, occasionally, rarely - really, our time is split and we miss out on special dates or occasions while enjoying time with our other grand-children.

Case in Point: Last month I had the opportunity to go and spend some time with Laura and her family in Colorado and had a gay old time! The timing was perfect for Brian & Laura to enjoy an evening out with each other and some of Brian's Air Force associates while I stayed home with Kellie and Delia.

We did have a gay old time, the girls and I. Kellie and I watched a movie and shared popcorn while Delia snoozed. When she woke up, Delia was hungry and in need of her Mama.

Laura (the beautiful Belle of the evening) missed her dinner of London Broil with all the trimmings and came home to feed Delia. She returned to her date with Brian while the girls and I resumed our Girl's Night In!

Unfortunately, due to flight schedules and availability, I had to return home on Abbi's 5th birthday, which meant we missed her birthday party.

Although we missed her party on her actual birthday, we made up for it and visited Abbi and her family a week later. We were able to see their new home with lots of new hiding places to play hide-n-seek and went to dinner at the Brick Oven in Provo. Dinner was disappointing but not the company!

As a birthday gift for Miss Abbi, Grandpa chose a Princess Book. Each of the Princesses were represented with their cling style wardrobes.

Naturally, Abbi chose to play dress-up with her Princesses.

Let me tell you, those Princesses have quite the wardrobe... dresses, gowns, shawls, wraps, shoes, gloves, tiaras, accessories galore!

You know, Abbi is as beautiful as the Princesses in her book...piercing blue eyes, shiny blonde hair and sweet smile.

Now we just need to work on our timing of presenting the gift.

Little Abbi was so enthralled with her new book she barely ate a bite of her dinner.

Meanwhile, Kacen had fun climbing on the back of Grandpa's chair and got a bump on his cute little forehead to prove it. Boys! They are so rough and tumble, aren't they?

Jesse was content to hang close to his Mommie while taking in all of the activity around him and the food his Mommie shared with him.

All the while, Miss Alona and I worked on her activity sheet finding all of the hidden objects and writing in cursive. Alona! Such a seeker of learning.

If you go by birth dates and school cut-off dates, Alona should be in the first grade. But she's not. She is in the second grade as of about a month ago. Here we are at a restaurant, in Provo, and she asked me to write a line from her activity sheet in cursive. So I did. She copied me and it looked great, even though she is left handed.

While complimenting her on how well she did, I mentioned that it was especially great because as a left-hander she had the more difficult task of writing in cursive. As a leftie she has to push the writing instrument (I really said crayon or pencil or pen) instead of pulling it like we righties get to do. Her response... "I don't think it's hard."

Well, of course she doesn't think it's hard. She's Alona Bagley!

It's always fun to spend time with our children and grand-children, even though we have to split our time, sometimes.

There isn't a lot of adult conversation when grand-children are present but there is lots of hide-n-seek, playing and opportunities to make memories!

Now, if I could just be more consistent on taking pictures of our visits.

What a Beaute

2010-02-08T10:36:00.002-07:00

This past Friday and Saturday, Troop 591 participated in the 2010 Klondike Derby at Weber Memorial Park/Causey Reservoir in the Ogden Valley. Val's scouts did better than I thought they would (oh me of little faith) scoring 108 with the winning troop scoring 116.

As they were packing up, preparing to come home, a snow ball fight began. While loading equipment in to the trailer Val took one in the head. He was taken by surprise, as he wasn't engaged in the white warfare ( I copied this terminology from the troop blog authored by Jared St. Clair ;) ) at this point. His reaction was to start chasing the offending scout. The pursuit was long (little scouts are much more nimble and fast compared to Scoutmasters) but Val was within reaching distance of the little guy when his feet were caught up in snow covered sage brush. Going face first, Val fell flat, right on top of Carson, knocking the air out of the poor little guy.

In retrospect, Val thinks his eye and cheek hit Carson's shoulder, bruising his eye and abrasing his cheekbone. His main concern was for Carson. He was worried that he may have broken Carson's collar bone in the fall. Val was grateful it was snow they fell on, believing it would have been much worse without the softer landing.

Word on the street is Carson has a nice bruise of his own on his back. My question is........

Do you think Carson's bruise was caused by ...

Val's firm chin, or
Val's equally firm Chadwick nose

We'll surely never know. Afterall, it's not worthy of CSI: Weber County.

However, it sure is fun to speculate every time I look at the changing color of his eye!

I just love my Scoutmaster!

Farewell Facebook

2010-01-22T17:50:00.001-07:00

Today I deactivated my Facebook account.

While I loved being able to keep up with my family,

It was too time consuming.

I'm considering retiring my blog, too.

It's nice to record events and use it as an online journal.....

It's also too time consuming....

and mentally, consumes alot of my thoughts.

I can keep a jouranl on my computer just as easily.

In fact, it would be less pressure.

Just some of my thoughts on this winter Friday.

Now, I'm off to the grocery store!

Long Time, No Posts

2009-11-17T13:57:00.001-07:00

Yes, it's been quite a long while since I last posted.

I've been formating them in my mind... does that count?

We had a sleepover with Paul, Heather, Alona, Abbi, Kacen and Jesse this summer. We used our new tent for the fist time. Must confess I didn't get much sleep. It was hot, children were too excited to sleep, it was hot (I know - a repeat of the fact it was hot) and it was fun! The next day Alona and I went shopping for school clothes. She found some cute things at Old Navy.

After the shopping expedition we had lunch all together and then went to Antelope Island for the afternoon. It was hot! However, we had fun inspite of the summer heat. We saw a few buffalo, an antelope (or was it a deer?), an owl and practiced roping a calf at the Garr Fielding Ranch.

While walking through the ranch house Abbi said "Grandma this looks like your house!"

We also walked on the beach with all of the (thousands) flies. Val and I checked out a place called The Point. Up on a hill with southwestern views of the lake, which were breathtaking. I hope we can go again on a cooler day or evening. It would be a great place for a picnic.

Brian, Laura, Kellie and Delia came for a visit in September and it was awesome! We hung out at home, went bowling, attended Witches Night Out at the Rock Loft, rode FrontRunner to Salt Lake City, explored Discovery Gateway, played Hide-n-Seek with Kellie and shared them with the rest of the folks who love them and qualify for quality time.

Aunt Jane took Kellie for a ride on her horse Shake. Kellie learned Giddy up and Whoa commands and smiled the enitre time she was up there. Thanks, Aunt Jane!

Grandpa also hosted an Autumn Party (aka: Halloween) for his grandchildren and their parents. Aunt Ellen joined us with her grand-daughters McKaylie and Reilly. It was great fun and we hope it becomes a tradition.

Delia received her name and a blessing, pronounced by her Uncle Andrew Bagley, thus creating a church membership record. It was a wonderful event with a few memorable moments for me... the first was a Kodak moment without a camera when, during the blessing, Kellie walked up to the circle of men and peered up inside the circle to see what Miss Delia was crying about. It was so cute. The other memory was walking home from the church with Alona, Abbi, Kellie and Kacen. It was such a fun walk. One of those opportunities you hope and dream will present itself. A dream come true, really!

The Gent family now live in Colorado and we are so happy and thankful to have them closer to home. That SLC to Denver commute just might become a habit for me!

Jared and Tami are busy working and Jared continues to plug away at school. Tami completed her schooling and graduated in August. She also received a promotion with the IRS and had to go to Atlanta for a month of training.

Right after she returned home, Jared, Tami and Brandon drove up to Seattle, Washington for an annual convention they love to attend. It has something to do with technology and gaming. Jared caught a bug and felt crummy but they had a safe trip, returning in one peice for which I'm grateful.

Jared and Tami hosted Val & I, along with the Gent family, to an evening of Beatles Rock Band. We shared Chinese food and I loved watching and listening to them interact and belt out tunes from their childhoods.

Andrew and Natalie work wacky shifts and so unfortunately, we don't get to see them too often. They are working hard and having fun being newlyweds. They were really kind and drove Brian & Laura's car to Colorado, along with Zoe the dog, so Brian didn't have to make the trek back. Despite the icy roads they arrived home intact!

Brandon continues to accept weird dares from his supervisor and also moonlights composing music and playing in a band. We just never know when we might receive notification that he's appearing in a YouTube video eating an eight patty hamburger or trying to crush a soda can with his forehead.

Listening to his music is much more soothing and enjoyable!

Kacen turned 3 in October, right before Halloween. Kellie will be 3 "in Novmeber". Jesse and Delia continue to grow and develop, too. It's fun to see their progress.

Alona is in first grade and loves school. Her teacher is Mrs. Cannon, who was also her kindergarten teacher. Grandpa and I went to her school on her 7th birthday (in September) and Grandpa drew pictures on posterboard for the children in her class. After the fun, Grandpa and I accompanied Alona to the cafeteria for lunch and a tour of the playground.

Alona also participated in Story Telling Workshops after school and learned the basics of story telling. In October, just before Halloween, the school hosted a Story Telling Festival so each of the workshop participants could tell their stories. The story Alona told was Trick or Treat, Smell my Feet. She did an awesome job despite feeling nervous. The impressive thing about it was that when she forgot some of her story she was very composed and simply thought for a minute and then resumed her story when her memory was restored. I remember at that age I would have crumpled into a pool of tears and shut down. I'm so happy we were able to attend the Festival.

Alona is also in a girl scout troop... a Daisy!

Miss Abbigail is so happy to be attending pre-school. She loves being able to do the same type things as her big sister.

This month brought the H1N1 virus to the Paul Bagley family. Trying to be a helpful Grandma, I went down to lend assistance for about a day and a half and then came home with the bug! Bummer.

While I was down there, Alona and Abbi participated in their ward Primary Program in Sacrament meeting. I'm so glad we were able to attend church with them and see the program. They both did a great job singing and reciting their parts. Alona recited a few lines from the Proclamation on The Family and I think every word was at least three syllables long. She was great!

We survived Halloween night at our house. More than 400 trick-or-treaters waited for a chance to see the Undertaker at the Funeral home in our backyard. When Grandpa and I were talking to Kellie, via telephone, the day after Halloween I mentioned that Grandpa dressed up like an Undertaker and Kellie replied "I want to see your underwear!" It was too funny!

You'll now find us getting ready for the holidays and hoping to avoid any more sickness.

Happy November to each of you!

Cricut Contest... You Should Enter, Too!

2009-09-21T18:12:00.005-06:00

This is contest entry for those crazy folks at TodaysMama and Cricut. Be sure to check out Cricut's cool new cartridges and the chance at $30,000 in travel for you and your friends at the Great Gypsy Escape site! http://bit.ly/FWcudGreat Escape Meme

1. If you could escape to anywhere in the world where would it be?
London, England and the surrounding countryside to peruse book shops, stationers and fabric purveyors.

2. What song do you play when you are by yourself in the car?
Something instrumental, or I listen to KBYU Classical FM.

3. If you had a night to yourself, and money was no object, what would you do?
Hmmmm. I'd buy a new car, pickup my handsome chauffer (my husband) and drive to Sun Valley, Idaho where we'd stay for a week, reliving our honeymoon!

4. What is your guilty pleasure?
Hot Fudge Sundae with homemade Fudge Sauce.

5. What is the farthest place you have traveled away from your home?
Israel and Jordan

6. Last book that you couldn't put down?
Place of Refuge by David Wooley

7. When you want to escape into another time, what movie do you watch?
Mama Mia!

8. What is your favorite local escape?
Fairview, Wyoming

9. How do you escape on a budget?
Prepare and serve a nice meal to my husband and watch romantic comedies at home.

Best food you've ever had while on vacation.
Rahmschnitzel while on a skiing vacation in Switzerland, eons ago!

Mission Accomplished. Barely!

2009-08-05T11:06:00.013-06:00

Miss Delia Katherine Gent was born..... the day we left!

However, I was still there and had the great blessing of being present for her birth!

Just thinking about it now brings tears to my eyes.

After a few false hopes of 'this is it', a few nesting moments, a Father's Blessing and a few conversations about 'what if', Laura was able to put aside her worries, do a little more nesting and finally wake me up in the wee hours of the morning to say ...

"We're going to the Birth Center."

That short, simple, statement was peppered with short breaths laced with pain.

Well, as you can imagine, I popped out of bed, dressed, brushed my teeth and tried to fix my bed head hair to the sounds of Laura's moanful scurrying around the house getting everything together.

She had to stop what she was doing a few times to pace through her contractions.

I felt so helpless and unhelpful.

Because it was so early in the morning, 4:30am, we weren't able to exit the base through the gate closest to their home, and a straight shot to the birth center. Instead, Brian had to drive almost across base to another gate and then travel about twice as far. It seemed 4 times farther.

For the most part, it was a quiet drive. Brian and I still shaking the foggy sleep from our minds. The stillness of the early morning only rattled by Miss Laura and her contractions, about 4 minutes apart at the time.

Before I even arrived in Anchorage, and almost everyday I was there, comments would be made about Laura's demeanor during labor and delivery. We would talk about transition and how I shouldn't take anything Laura might say, personal. We also talked about different women's experiences with 12 hour labors, 24 hour labors, 36 hour labors and resulting Cesarean births.

I was worried.

Worried about the unknown.

Worried about saying or doing something to add to Laura's discomfort during labor.

So, on this extended journey to the birth center, my quiet demeanor was rife with worry, too.

When contracting, while in the car, Laura would hit the door, pound the dashboard, stomp her feet. At one point she rolled down the window, stuck out her head and hollered. As loud as she could. After the contraction subsided, she pulled in her head, rolled up the window and sighed.

I'm sure I was sitting in the back seat wide eyed. Worried.

Finally, we arrived at the birth center.

May I interject what an awesome job Brian did in getting us there?

He was the cool man under pressure.

At one point he gleefully said "We're going to have a baby!"

Brian pulled in to the parking lot at the birth center and gave me the assignment of insuring Laura made it inside safely.

Oh, man!

When we arrived she was in the middle of a contraction!

She slid out of the car and paced around the parking lot, working her way through the contraction. I stood off to the side while she paced and then followed her into the building feeling so helpless and unhelpful.

When Laura was a little girl I dubbed her the "No Pain Queen" and often remarked that I didn't want to be around when she had a baby! Pain was not her friend, she did not embrace it, she did not endure it well, she did not tolerate pain.

So here I am, miles and miles away from home, 20 minutes away from my sweet rock of comfort (Val was at the Gent home with Kellie, who was sleeping, nary the wiser about where her Mama was at the moment), with Laura Michelle, the No Pain Queen, in labor!

Inside, Laura resumed her pacing. Up and down the short hall of the birthing suite. Amanda, her doulah, Trina, her midwife, still in her street clothes and Felicity, her nurse were already there... preparing for the big event. They all looked so fresh and composed at 5:00am!

After Laura's contraction passed, Trina checked her. She wasn't yet fully dilated.

Another contraction began, Laura needed to "pee". A woeful, frustrated groan and declaration from the bathroom .... "Nothing's coming out, awwwwww."

In between contractions Trina offered Laura the tub. Laura accepted. Felicity turned on the water to fill the tub, meanwhile, Trina was writing on Laura's chart, Brian unloading the car, Amanda and I hovering.

While pacing the hall Laura shouted out "I want to be in the water." Trina calmly explained to Laura that it takes 10 to 15 minutes to fill the tub.

Laura continued pacing.

She vocalized her pain as she paced. At one point, during the pacing, I didn't know if I could handle it. I felt so overwhelmed. Hearing her pain was painful for me.

Selfishly, I prayed that she didn't have to go through hours of labor. I didn't think I would be able to endure to the end.

Amanda and I were still hovering. We wanted to be there for Laura but knew she was in another realm of reality.

"Water, water, water. I want the water."

After that exclamation from Laura, I smiled and chuckled to myself thinking... That must be where Kellie gets her repetitive nature when in need!

Laura was finally able to get in the tub, looking for relief from the contractions and the weight of a soon to be born child she carried.

Trina checked Laura again and told Laura her dilation was complete and her cervix was gone.

"Good-bye cervix", Laura replied.

The water therapy didn't work for Laura.

Trina explained that if Laura wanted to deliver while in the water she had to reposition herself in the tub, enabling the mid-wife to monitor her progress.

Laura chose to get out of the tub and migrate to the bed.

By this time Trina and Felicity were in their scrubs and barefoot.

Two other ladies arrived to observe and help. They were nurses in training.

The bed wasn't working for Laura either. She couldn't find a comfortable position.

Trina suggested a birthing stool Laura could use, after her contraction was finished. Laura moved to the birthing chair.

At this point I was on the other side of the bed, trying to ensure I wasn't in the way.

After each contraction Laura would frustratingly say "She's not moving. The baby's not moving." Trina would check and reassure Laura that the baby was indeed moving.

Laura wasn't convinced so Trina showed her how to check the baby's progress on her own.

I was thinking to myself... I hope Trina's just not saying that to make Laura feel better.

Trina coached Laura during a few more contractions. This helped Laura know what she should feel when pushing.

During another contraction Trina asked Laura to move back to the bed after she worked through her current contraction. Her screams of pain and frustration were piercing.

While the nurses tried to get Laura to move back to the bed, Trina was down on the floor trying to check Laura's progress. At the same time, Laura was protesting that she didn't want to get back on the bed.

With her head almost lying on the floor, peering up at Laura's girl parts, Trina exclaimed... "Her head's out!"

Oh man! Here I was trying to stay out of the way and I missed the head coming out!

I scurried to the other side of the bed as Laura contracted again... instead of moving to the bed. Laura was practically sitting on the floor!

Down on her haunches, almost sitting on the floor, Trina declared..."Here she comes." Gently, she took hold of Miss Delia, helped her complete her entry to our world and put her in Laura's arms! It was such a fluid motion.

It. Was. So. Amazing!

And I got to be there to witness this marvelous event!

Where ism Kellieisms!

2009-08-04T13:46:00.006-06:00

Where is im?
Can I see im?

What is it?
Can I see it?

What is it?
Oh, I lub it!

I lub olibes!

Mama, put your hand over your heartbeat!

Oh, my golly. Oh, my golly!

I do it.

That's my job.

By myself.

I lub lellow.

Grammie, we don't sing at the table.

Grandpa, we don't play music at the table.

Oh! The American Flag!

I lub the American Flag!

It's okay, it's alright, don't worry, I'll pick em up.

It's okay, it's okay, I'm okay.

Don't worry, it's okay, I'm not hurt.

When I arrived at the Gent home on June 12th, I was so excited to re-meet Miss Kellie. The last time Kellie and I were together was in June, 2008. Although we talked fairly regularly on the telephone prior to my visit, I couldn't wait to give her hugs and kisses.

Brian met me at the airport and took me to their home on Elmendorf Air Force Base. Since he parked in the garage, I walked into the house through the garage door.... while Kellie was going out the front door to meet me! When we finally met each other, hugs and kisses were exchanged and Kellie wanted to know where Grandpa was.... Where is im? Can I see im?

After greeting the pregnant Mama and exchanging hugs, I took my things to my room and started to unpack. Kellie wasn't far behind and made a bee line for her bookcase, extracting a few books and handing them to me saying, "Can we read these Grammie?"

Thus began a daily ritual, sometimes multiple times each day, of Kellie and I reading books.

If I read Five Little Monkeys once, I read that cute little book 500 times. In fact, Kellie and I have it memorized. We've examined every illustration, several times, and expounded on each monkey, action, consequence and gender of each monkey.

The Hungry Caterpillar was our second favorite book.

Olivia was another favorite.

Kellie was a very attentive reading partner and had several rituals she went through with certain books. She never let me down and it was so much fun!

The fun thing about Laura and Brian is they let me jump right into their life. That evening I was able to be the one to oversee bath time with Kellie.... and I taught her how to make a Bubble Beard! In fact, I was able to participate in the whole bedtime ritual!

After about a week, Brain let me do the whole process ... by myself!

Rituals, routines, schedules all help the Gent home run like a smooth machine.

After a month of Grammie in house, I've wondered how much work it's been for Laura to get Kellie back on track. I know I must have upset the smooth running machine a few times, at least.... with only the best intentions.

Since I've been home, several people have asked what I did, where I went and what I saw while in Alaska. Many have been surprised to learn I didn't go fishing, or camping, or exploring.

I didn't go there to go fishing, camping or exploring!

My purpose in going to Alaska was to spend time with the Gent family, bond with Kellie and be there with Laura when she delivered her second child.

Mission Accomplished! Barely!

It's Official!

2009-08-04T13:22:00.004-06:00

It's true... I can now say I've been to all 50 of the United States!

Thanks to Laura Michelle, I accomplished this feat when I travelled to Alaska to spend time with Laura and her family for a month. I had the time of my life, too!

This is Alaska's 50th anniversary of becoming part of the USA
Summer Solstice occurred
I experienced the long days of summer... it didn't get dark, just twilight
We welcomed a new grand-daughter, too!

Being able to check-off Alaska on the list of states I've visited was really secondary to the wonderful experience of being able to spend time with the Gent family. Getting to know Kellie better, seeing Laura in the Mama mode and being there when Laura delivered her second child was a truly amazing opportunity and experience I shall treasure, always!

Feeling So Far Behind!

2009-07-15T20:04:00.002-06:00

Truly, I keep this blog more for me than others. However, I know how disappointed I feel sometimes when I check others blogs and they haven't been updated for awhile. I also feel a great responsibility to complete monthly posts and include family members whose birthdays are in that month. Since I started it, I need to be consistent so folks don't feel left out or overlooked.

That being said, I know I need to document June and July birthdays, so don't give up on me yet! Also, I had the time of my life spending a month in Alaska with Laura and her family and really want to record my feelings, impressions, and fun times... before I forget.

Most importantly, I have two new grandchildren and really want to record those fun events, too!

If you check back in the next few weeks, I hope to have more fun stuff to share!

Belated May Memories

2009-06-07T17:35:00.010-06:00

Not only was May the month of Val and my anniversary, and Val's birthday...

...it is also the month we celebrate and remember many other loved ones...

Jared Chadwick Bagley celebrates his birthday on the first day of May! Jared is our oldest and tallest child. Whenever we spend time with him, receive a voice mail or email, or he rescues us from computer challenges, Val and I always comment, discuss and express gratitude for the man he has become. Jared can express himself, about any topic or family matter, in such a way that we always feel loved, never judged. He and his Ladyhawk, Tami, are so fun to spend time with and be around. We can discuss politics, the economy, world news, religion... and The Simpsons... and always feel enlightened and entertained. He has been plugging away at his schooling for many years and hopefully sees light at the end of the tunnel. Jared epitomizes the type of person you hope all of your children will become when in the thick of teen life!

Laura Michelle Bagley Gent, our Crunchy Chick, celebrates her birthday on the fourth of May. Miss Laura, much to my chagrin, lives way up north in Alaska and is the Mama to Miss Kellie Allison, Miss Laura's life experiment. She's also expecting another child in July.

Being the only girl in the Bagley Bunch, Laura and I have always enjoyed each others company. She's a delight to visit with, I learn much from her and she's a great Mama.

Her Dad has often said he often wished he could freeze her at the age of 4... he loved her pigtails, smiling face and fun personality. I certainly don't discount my sweet husband's desire to have his pixie Laura Michelle around but... if she were still 4 years old, I probably wouldn't know her, which would be a great loss in my life. She's wonderful.

Heather Marie Bethards Bagley, our daughter-in-law, celebrates her birthday on May 14th. Heather is married to Paul, our second son, and together they have three children with one on the way. Heather is petite, quiet and shy. She's also the mother of three great kids... Alona, Abbi and Kacen. She works hard to be a good Mommy and enjoys teaching her children at home. Which is a task she takes very seriously.

I remember on one occassion when Alona was about 21 months old, Heather, Alona and I had lunch together and made a stop at All Tucked In, a children's book/gift store. I think we purchased a few books for Alona that day, too. On our way back to my office, Heather let out a big sigh and in a worried voice said something to the effect "I don't know if I'll ever be able to teach Alona to read." I couldn't help but chuckle, patted her on the shoulder and tried to reassure her that since Alona wasn't even two yet, she had plenty of time!

Margaret Blakeley, my sister, celebrates her birthday May 20th. Gertie, as I refer to her, is a chef. She's the second to the last child in our family, 4th girl, and the shortest, too! She's a very hard worker, quick to lend a helping hand and a hearty laugh. She's done so much for me over the years, I appreciate her selfless acts of service to me and my family.

Val's brother Bret and his wife Roxanne also celebrate their birthdays in May. They live in Lehi with their two sons Chad and Ryan.

May Days

2009-05-08T10:12:00.002-06:00

How can you not LOVE May?

May is a month of Spring.

Spring brings beautiful flowers and new growth.

Spring is (usually) a warming month.

Spring is the season of my marriage.

Spring is the season of my husband's birth.

How can you not LOVE May?

I LOVE May!

"I'd Love To!"

2009-04-28T17:18:00.006-06:00

Some of my most favorite and fun memories come from spending time with our grand-children and talking to them on the telephone.

Alona, at 6 years old, has become quite a conversationalist. Whether talking in person or on the telephone, it's fun to hear about what she is learning in school and fun things they do together as a family. She is very matter of fact and knowledgeable about the subject of conversation.

Abbi is usually hovering in the background when her Mommy and I are talking on the telephone and I can hear her sweet little voice saying ...

"I wanna say hi."

"Can I say hi?"

"Can I please say hi?"

When I do talk to her, she always tells me where she is at the moment and what she is doing. I like to ask her what she is learning at home and which letter they are learning about. She tells me all that she remembers.

Kacen is a 'Yes' man. No matter the question, his answer is usually an enthusiastic 'Yes!'.

We phoned Grandpa Honey the other day and Honey asked "Is this Abbi?"

Kacen replied, "Yes!"

When we have the opportunity to talk to Kellie, who is 2 1/2 years old, on the telephone I'm chuckling the remainder of the day.

She is usually so animated about what she is telling us and the excitement comes through so well in her voice. Yesterday she was very excitedly telling me she was going to go bowling with the Elders that evening and then in an almost dead pan voice she tagged on "I had oatmeal."

Mama had to translate that one for me; it came out of no where!

Grandpa wasn't home when Kellie was telling me about her upcoming bowling activity with the Elders. When he returned home I encouraged him to call Kellie and ask her where she was going that evening.... but he had to ask Kellie, not her Mama.

Naturally, Laura answered the telephone when he called so when he asked if he could speak with Kellie we heard Laura ask "Do you want to talk to Grandpa?"

Her reply?

"I'd love to!"

The Beautiful Pacific Northwest!

2009-04-22T19:30:00.010-06:00

During the mid 1980s I lived in Seattle, Washington.

As a result of a competition (long before I moved there) Seattle was nicknamed the Emerald City. A very appropriate nickname, too!

Seattle (and Western Washington) reminded me so much of Germany.....

Rainy Weather

Cooler Temperatures

Not much snow

Beautiful Green vistas

Beautiful Mountains - although Mt. Rainier was usually in hiding due to smog and weather patterns

Trees, glorious trees!

I love trees and the Northwest is a veritable feast of trunks, needles and foliage. Oh! And moss, can't forget the moss. It's everywhere and I love it!

This past weekend, Val and I, along with Brandon, who turned 21 while we were there, went to the Northwest.

We flew to Portland, Oregon and spent time in Oregon and Washington.

I loved the moss, all types of moss, everywhere.

Our rental car earned another 794 miles in just three days and we saw some beautiful countryside and the Pacific Ocean!

We learned it takes ten pounds of milk to make one pound of cheese.

Can you believe it? We learned that tidbit of information at the Tillamook Cheese Factory.

Brandon saw his first lighthouse in Cape Meares, it serves the Tillamook Bay.

We stayed with some old friends who moved to Ridgefield, Washington about a year ago. Ridgefield is the birthplace of U-Haul and is a beautiful little village north of Vancouver.

Saturday, Val spoke at a tri-stake Youth Conference in Yakima, Washington enabling us to also see a bit of Eastern Washington and drive the Columbia River Gorge Scenic area.

Brandon and Val hiked Multnomah Falls and I enjoyed looking around the area and beautiful lodge while they hiked.

The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area is a great place to explore with so many beautiful wonders of nature. I hope we get to return to the Great Pacific Northwest and explore more of it's beauty.

Evidence of Spring

2009-04-22T19:18:00.004-06:00

A few weeks ago while I was feeling cold and life outside was feeling dreary, I took some photos to document spring.

I'm certainly not a photographer, but I love to see different stages of the season in my gardens!

The upside to a cooler spring is that the daffodils and other spring bulbs last longer.

Yippy Skippy!

Kisses from Mother Nature!

2009-04-22T19:07:00.003-06:00

Is there anything cuter than freckles?

Really?

Especially on such a cute little face.

On such a cute little girl - who'll tell you she's not little:)

Love the freckles!

Love my Alona!

Bondage

2009-04-14T13:23:00.006-06:00

We are in bondage.

No ifs, ands or buts about it.

We are in bondage to governments - local and national - and tomorrow is the day of reckoning - for 2008.

Taxes...............

I suppose we should feel happy about having to share with Uncle Sam because it means we are employed.

I'm grateful for employment... just wish I didn't feel like the government squandered so much of our hard earned, taxable income!

April Aaahs!

2009-04-01T10:47:00.005-06:00

Aaah! It's April.

I love April.

I love the spring bulbs that begin decorating our gardens.

I love the clear blue skies and warmer temperatures.

I love the opportunity to get out in the gardens and clear away the remnants of seasons past.

I love being able to participate in general conference.

I just love the refreshing feeling of rebirth and renewal.

Our family has a few April birthdays.

Miss Maddi was born 04/04/04! How cool is that birth date?!

Maddi's Aunt Melissa's birthday is the very next day, April 5th. Melissa is my second niece. Melissa's mother is my sister - Charmalee. I'll always remember Melissa's birthday because she was born shortly after we (my parents, younger siblings and I) moved to Battle Creek, Michigan. We were still staying in a hotel. I was lying in bed (sharing a room with my parents) trying to cover my eyes and ears to block out the program my parents were watching on the tele. I don't remember the actual name of the movie but it was about Charles Manson and his horrific crime.

Needless to say, Melissa is nothing like the aforementioned sicko.

Melissa is gentle, kind, loving, giving and patient. The oldest of 7 children she was the nurturing sister. Like most older siblings, she had lots of responsibilities at home. The friendship she has with each of her sisters, and her brother, is a testament to how well she fulfilled her role as older sister!

Aunt Marlene, my Mother's sister, celebrates her birthday April 7th. We haven't had the privilege of having Aunt Marlene in our lives until these past few months. Thanks to the efforts of family history, we've been able to connect with her (she lives in California) and look forward to the opportunity of getting to know her and her family much better!

My Grandpa Blakeley's birthday is in April, too. Robert Grant Blakeley is my Dad's Dad! Grandpa was a gardener, woodworker, tool and die maker, tall and all around great man! He passed away the year I graduated from high school.

Grandpa had a woodworking shop in his basement. When we would go to visit, which was almost every Sunday, I loved going downstairs to see what he was working on. The smell of sawdust still conjures up memories of my Grandpa.

He would make us doll furniture and other fun toys. He made a set of scale model wagons for his children and friends. I inherited the stage coach and chuck wagon.

Grandpa also loved to grow fruits and vegetables in his garden. As a child I remember thinking he was so cool because he grew cherry tomatoes and yellow pear tomatoes. Hmmm, they were soooo yummy!

Grandpa was the shopper in their empty nest. He spoiled Grandma and his grandchildren. Grandma loved not having to go to the grocery store and we loved the cookies Grandpa always had on his kitchen counter. That was the place we headed to first whenever we went over for a visit.

My Grandpa also loved collecting books (especially first editions) and comic books. We were allowed to read his comic books whenever we were there. I loved going in his bedroom and lying on his bed while I read his newest editions! It was great fun.

Grandpa and Grandma Blakeley also gave us the opportunity to learn to work and earn money. They would hire us to do their spring cleaning and paid us minimum wage. We learned how to wash walls, clean cabinets and wash windows with newspaper and vinegar water. It was hard work but always great to collect our earnings!

Brandon Clark Bagley will be celebrating his 21st birthday this April 17th.

It's hard to believe our caboose is turning 21!

Brandon is the quiet one in our family. Behind that quiet demeanor you'll find a very intelligent, talented, funny, kind, loving guy.

Brandon gives the best hugs!

Brandon writes music and produces his own music CDs. His new age style of music is one of my favorites so it's fun to listen to his tracks.

I love Easter too! Which usually falls in April.

Of course, as an adult, I love it for it's real significance, the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I also love it for the fun celebration of Spring!

This year Val and I will be hiding to host our fourth annual Bagley Easter Egg Hunt! A hunt for our adult children and grandchildren, too!

April would be so much sweeter if it weren't also tax time! Nothing like the government to put a damper on an otherwise wonderful month.

Happy Easter
Happy Spring
Happy, Happy Everything!

Mortified!

2009-03-11T12:48:00.016-06:00

Proof reading is a necessary chore in this world of ours.

Personally, I get so frustrated when I've created a flyer, brochure, power point presentation, newsletter, blog post, etc... only to find a typo after publication! Argh! I even proof my own work.

One of my most embarrassing typos: Before the days of computers, I had to send a memo to a regional manager (working for Marriott Hotels and Resorts in Seattle, WA at the time). It was all about an imbalance in our inventory of men's dress shirts. Dutifully, I sent off the memo and filed away my copy for future reference. About a year later, as I was purging old files prior to being transferred to another hotel, I came across this memo. Words can not describe how mortified I felt, I'm telling you MORTIFIED, to see I had left the r out of shirt!

Mortified.

This past Saturday as I was cleaning and organizing the pantry cupboard I came across this.....My most favorite typo!

My sweet Mother printed this label for a bottle of Vanilla Sugar she gave to me. It prompts a smile each time I see it!

I'm still working on my March Memories Post....

Much ado About March!

2009-03-06T12:25:00.009-07:00

March is a wonderful month for many wonderful reasons.

I love the sense of awakening March offers.

Today I can see crocus blooming in my winter weary gardens while in the distance see the beautiful snow capped mountains.

I Love Spring!

I Love Spring Flowers!

I Love Warmer Temperatures!

March is the birth month of.....

Andrew James Bagley, our 4th child, was born March 6, 1986.... which means... Andrew turned 23 this year.

Andrew prefers to go by Andy but I usually slip and refer to him as Andrew. Can't help it really. It seems when I've been introduced to someone, or know them by their given name, nicknames are hard for me to adopt.

Andrew is very tender-hearted. He is athletically inclined, loves modern technology, movies and his beautiful wife Natalie!

He attained the rank of Eagle Scout and served an honorable LDS mission in the Oklahoma, Oklahoma City Mission.

When Andrew was 5 or 6 he started to play AYSO Soccer. He was the cutest little guy with an infectious smile and ears that were bigger than his smile. He loved soccer and was good at it except... when his shoes came untied! You see, he couldn't yet tie his own shoe laces. When a lace would come untied he would run over to the sidelines for help, smiling all the while!

One of Andrew's love languages is Receiving Gifts. Determining his love language was very easy. Why? Well, here are a few hints...

The day after Christmas he'd start letting us know what he'd like as a birthday gift!

The advertising sections were his favorite part of the Sunday papers. Especially in the months and weeks leading up to Christmas!

As a courtesy, he would often remind us how many days before his birthday and Christmas!

Andrew is a wonderful son whom I love. We appreciate all of the joy he brings to our family, too.

Two of my nieces also have birthdays in March...

Jordan Alex Earl (youngest of the Earl Girls!) was born on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 1988. This year she'll be the big 21! Although Jordan is petite, she was a big baby... 10lbs.!

From the time she could talk, when she woke up in the mornings, and even from her naps, she would always ask for a cookie. Jordan and her older sister Courtnee participated in FFA Horticulture Program and became accomplished florists. even competing on a national level.

Jordan is the only child living at home these days. Her bedroom is bright pink with assorted sizes and colors of polka dots on her walls!

She's pretty hip, that young one!

Natalie, Jordan's second oldest sister, was born almost ten years earlier on March 26, 1978. Natalie is Taber's Mom. She has beautiful eyes, especially when she smiles.

March is the month my cute husband makes a pilgrimage to Chicago for the annual Haunted House Convention. Can you believe there is a HHC?

It's part of the annual Spring Gift Show.

Val always loves going but loves coming home even more.

In March, 1957 my Mom was carrying me around in her womb!

He's Got Class!

2009-02-27T13:24:00.005-07:00

Whether you agree with his policies, party affiliations, et al... you have to admit, Barack Obama has class!

When he addressed the U.S. Congress earlier this week I was so touched with his opening when he acknowledged the First Lady of the United States of America.

When his wife, Michelle, blew him a kiss and mouthed 'I love You' I got teary.

I'm still cautiously hopeful!

Lovely February

2009-02-09T13:00:00.014-07:00

Ah, February!

The month of Love!

February memories special to me include...

My Mutti passed away February 2, 2002. It is an understatement to say I miss her very much. I send hugs and kisses to heaven for her each day. Sometimes it seems like she's been gone longer than seven years. However, she has given me so many wonderful memories it sometimes seems like I can reach out and hug my beloved Mutti.

Elsie Jean Wilson Blakeley, my Father's Mother was born February 2, 1900. My Grandma Blakeley was the only grandmother I knew. My Grandma Walp passed when I was very young and lived in California, so I didn't know her. Although Grandma Blakeley's first given name was Elsie, she preferred to go by Jean. After all, she couldn't go by Elsie because there was a girl in her primary school named Elsie and she had head lice! Horrors!

Grandma Blakeley was very talented with handicrafts. She would make clothes for our dolls when I was a child. I remember she had a Barbie she would use as a model. Because she was just a model, Grandma's Barbie was in mint condition. I would often hold her Barbie and wish, wish, wish my Barbie was as beautiful. You see, Grandma's Barbie had never been to the *Beauty Salon* so her hair was still perfect. My Barbie had received numerous salon treatments at my novice hand, which meant her hair was, well, not beautiful. Oh how I longed to take Grandma's Barbie home with me.

Grandma also made a quilt for each one of her granddaughters to receive as a wedding gift. Being the late bloomer that I was in the marriage thing, I received my quilt upon her passing. I love it, especially it's imperfectness.

Grandma had a personal *rule* that you would receive a gift from her until you were 19 or married, which ever came first. In my early days I would receive doll clothes; pre-teen years capes knit at her hands (on her new knitting machine, actually); in my later teen years she would give me things for my hope chest... sets of sheets and the like. However one year, the last year I qualified, she gave me a 25lb. bag of sugar! That's right, sugar. I don't know what happened to that big bag of sugar. Hopefully Jane or Charmalee received it prior to our move to Michigan. They didn't go with us because they were married by then.

Grandma Blakeley raised African Violets; her laundry facilities were in her bathroom; she always had beautiful drapes in her homes. She was very particular about her drapes. Every child I know loves to go behind the drapes and hide. If we tried it at Grandma's house we were quickly told to come from behind the drapes and sit like a lady (or gentleman, if the case).

As a general rule, we visited Grandma and Grandpa Blakeley every Sunday (we lived in the same town). In our younger years, Grandma had boxes of dress-up clothes in her closet. The boxes were there for us to play with and play we did! Now that I'm a grandmother, I wish I had all of those wonderful hats, handbags, dresses and jewelry Grandma Blakeley saved for us.

Somehow, Grandma and Grandpa Blakeley would be at our house Christmas mornings waiting for us to wake up and see what Santa had left for us. I never could figure out how they knew that Santa had visited our house before we did!

Grandma Blakeley was a wonderful correspondent with me after Mom and Dad moved us to Michigan and then Germany. She and I exchanged many letters.

Grandma Blakeley had the softest hands of anyone I remember. My Dad is following in her footsteps... his hands are very soft now, too.

Ellen, Val's sister, was also born on February 2, in 1961. Ellen is a great sister-in-law. She is 4 years younger than Val and I. Although Ellen has had her share of challenges and trails in her life, she is a very happy, talented, kind, grateful lady!

The year Val and I were married Ellen was diagnosed with a brain tumor. She underwent surgery to remove the tumor the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. I remember it well because it was my first Thanksgiving as a married woman and our year to spend the holiday with the Bagley family. Because Ellen was still in the hospital, Caren spent the day with Ellen. Honey met us at Chuck-a-Rama in Bountiful. He didn't want to stand in line and so he paid for our dinner and left. Val, the kids and I had dinner alone. Needless to say, it was a very 'flat' day for us although we were grateful Ellen survived her surgery.

We were also thankful for all of the other blessings we received in life. Like me... I was so grateful for the blessing of my sweet husband!

Ellen is a survivor. Not only did she survive brain surgery, she also survived chemotherapy, a divorce, the death of her second husband and the death of her youngest daughter, Kendra (Boo) Smith.

The Bagleys and the Hilles love getting together as often as possible. However, they live in south Salt Lake County and we live in north Davis County, so we don't get to see each other as often as we would like. When we do get together, we have wonderful times, laugh much and wish it happened more often.

Miss Abbigail Jean Bagley, one of my sweet granddaughters was born February 17, 2005. Abbi is petite like her Mommy and has beautiful blue eyes. She gives wonderful hugs, too. She has an older sister, Alona, and a younger brother, Kacen. Abbi also has a baby brother on his way... Jesse, debuting in June!

Learning is one of her favorite things to do. She also loves her baby dolls. A few weeks ago when I asked her what she wanted for her birthday she told me very succinctly "I'm going to get a scooter and a Barbie for my birthday." Some of my favorite memories of Abbi include...

Almost weekly visits to her house in Magna when she was a toddler. Being shy and demure, it wasn't uncommon for Abbi to sit on her Mommy's lap and watch her sister interact and play with Grandpa and I. Alona loved to make houses with the sofa cushions and pillows and Grandpa would always help construct them. One evening they built a house with Alona inside. Abbi got down on the floor with us and I *knocked* on Alona's door. When Alona answered the knock Abbi was so excited and laughed. It was so fun to see the look on Abbi's face and hear her cute laugh!

When Abbi was learning to talk it wasn't uncommon for her to drop the first and sometimes second letter(s) of many words. It is also not uncommon for me to wear my reading glasses on my head so they are available when needed. One day while visiting them in Provo, Abbi asked me for my (gl)asses. That's right, the gl were silent that day! Heather was out of the room when this request was uttered by Miss Abbigail and so when she returned I mentioned 'the incident'. Heather said something to the effect "Yeah, it's funny when she says castle, too!" Other words were cute too, including Ampa for Grandpa. Some words, you wish would stick! I love Miss Abbi!

Of course we can't forget Valentine's Day! My Valentine and I love to share cards and sometimes gifts on the day of Love. My favorite part is Val-entine kisses. My Valentine has such kissable lips!

As usual, Val does an awesome job decorating for the holiday, too!

My sister Barbara and her man Greg (he's some good eye candy, for sure!) usually come to Utah (from San Diego, CA) each year in February, the Tuesday after President's Day. They enjoy a week of skiing, snowmobiling and visiting friends and family. I always look forward to seeing her during this annual pilgrimage. Can't wait to see them this year.

Well, that's it for another Bagley Brief... that isn't brief. :)

Happy Valentine's Day!

Cure for Cabin Fever

2009-02-03T11:46:00.014-07:00

Yesterday was a beautiful, bittersweet day.

The second day of February is the anniversary of my sweet Mother's passing.

Charmalee Jane Walp Blakeley was born November 12, 1931. At the age of 71 she passed away and left a hole in my heart.

Gertie, my sister, treated my Dad and I to lunch at Jeremiah's, in Ogden. After lunch we took advantage of the beautiful winter sunshine and went for a drive!

We drove through the former Defense Depot Ogden so Dad could see the changes that have occurred there. DDO is where he officed when he worked in Utah in the 70s. The once government installation has since been privatized and many new office buildings have been built. Dad hasn't been there since DDO changed hands, so it was a nice drive-by for him.

After driving through DDO we headed eastward and upward!

We drove up 12th Street, the street where Dad grew up. The location of his former home is now a florist shop. Which, when you think about it, is a fitting replacement for the land. My grandparents were gardeners, nurserymen and florists! My Dad has been a fine gardener and operated a landscaping business during my formative years.

Continuing east on 12th Street evoked many memories for Dad, Gertie and I. Uncle Eric's stately English Tudor home is no longer 'up the street' from Dad's childhood home. The road is much wider (5 lanes) and there is commerce aplenty.

We continued up the canyon to the beautiful Ogden Valley. On the way, passing this beautiful waterfall (although in the spirit of full disclosure, I took this photo on our way back down the canyon!) Of course this photo doesn't capture the true, natural beauty and thunderous sounds of this waterfall. Water falls from the middle and the outer sections, both sides, are ice formations.

Driving up the winding canyon inspired many memories... Grey Wolf Lodge, The Hermitage (which I learned my Grandmother Blakeley's family operated prior to a destroying fire), the ATK Conference Center (I wanted to live there when I was a child), Wheeler Canyon where my Dad would end his ski days in his youth, and Gertie looked for the wicked witch's home; and then the beautiful valley and Pineview Reservoir!

After a pit stop at a local Maverik, we headed up to Powder Mountain!

My affinity for Powder Mountain, a ski resort, is multi-layered.

The original owner and developer of Powder Mountain was the same man who delivered me! Dr. Cobabe (I'll have to look-up his first name) and his family owned the land for many years and went on to develop the ski resort.

Our family had annual family passes at Powder Mountain the first years of operation until we moved away from Utah... for about 4 years.

My older sisters, Jane and Charmalee, and I worked there for a few seasons.

My sister Jane and her little family lived there for a few seasons.

As a family, we were stranded at Powder Mountain one winter weekend because of an avalanche. We had to spend two nights along with about 12 other people. The day after the avalanche we were able to dig out the chair lift and ski to our hearts content that day. Imagine skiing unfettered with only 21 other people to share the entire mountain with. I remember the quiet beauty of the day. The day after our exclusive ski day we walked out and over the mound of snow that had us stranded in a winter Eden. I don't remember how we got our cars back but we did!

Our parents allowed us one day each year that we could skip school and go skiing. One year Charmalee and I and two friends *borrowed* my Dad's old Chevy truck and headed to Powder Mountain for skiing. Of course Charmalee was driving because I didn't know how to drive a stick shift. Well, we should have stopped while we were ahead. As we were getting on the freeway, via the Roy on ramp, one of the doors popped open. Undaunted, we forged ahead. The next incident was when I twisted my knee on my forced last run, only 50 yards from the lodge. Poor me! With the day winding down, we gathered up our belongings and headed down the canyon for home. Now, if you've ever been to Powder Mountain you know how steep and winding the canyon is, making it a tricky drive. Well, as we were headed down the canyon Charmalee was rounding a curve and the next thing I knew we were careening out of control and rolled. When the truck stopped, the truck was on it's side but we were all alive relatively whole. Of course, having 4 people in the cab of a truck didn't leave much room for us to be jostled about and incur more injuries. To add to the gloom of the accident, I'll never forget my parents walking in the emergency room doors of McKay Dee hospital. They had come to collect us, Dad walking very slowly and stooped over... He was recovering from a very recent surgery....I felt so bad!

See what I mean... multi layers!

This photo was taken from the top of the ridge near the upper lodge, looking to the southwest. Gertie and I hopped out of the car to take some photos while Dad stayed inside, enjoying the breathtaking views laced with a lifetime of memories.

I couldn't help but think about my Mom at that specific moment... On those days she and I would be out and about running errands and shopping, she would opt to stay in the car too. "Just park me in the sunshine" she would say as she snuggled into her seat basking in the sun rays! I wish I could sit in the sun rays with her on these beautiful winter days!

After our trek up to the mountain we drove back down and continued our drive through the valley, headed to the Trappist Monastery to buy some local honey. Gertie and I visited with the attending Monk for a few minutes. He has been at the monastery since it opened in 1947. He looks to be about the same age as Dad, maybe a bit older. Interestingly, he is from Kentucky and came to Utah in 1947 to pledge his life to God. In 1949, Dad went to Kentucky to serve God and his countrymen as a Mormon Missionary!

After the stop at the monastery we headed home.

It was a wonderful way to spend the day with my sweet Dad and Gertie, recalling memories of my youth and feeling very grateful for my parents and family!

Sleepovers and Sisters

2009-01-05T17:56:00.002-07:00

On our way home from Ogden, Grandpa and Kacen sat next to each other in the car and enjoyed each others company, lots! Sometimes I would here Kacen say "Again" repeatedly and then at other times he could be heard saying "Don't Grandpa."

That Grandpa, he can be silly and fun and pesky all at the same time. Controlling the movements of Kacen's hands, Grandpa and Kacen would do 'Cheers'. You know... Rah, Rah, Shish Boom Bah... Gooooo Kacen! Which would garner an "Again".

"Don't Grandpa" could be heard when Grandpa was playing with Kacen's ears and neck. It's no fun when getting tickled against your will!

If you've seen the movie White Christmas, with Bing Crosby, you may recall the song Sisters. Well, I've been chuckling and thinking of that song ever since we had our sleepover, in December after going to see the Ogden City Lights!

Paul had to go home after our trip to Ogden, that darn homework, and so Heather and the children spent the night. Alona, Abbi and Kacen slept on the floor in Grandpa's dressing, exercise room. While trying to get them settled in I found a CD of beautiful Christmas songs which were performed with flutes. Knowing it has relaxing qualities, I turned it on and turned off the lights. A bit later I could here voices coming from the room so I peeked inside. Abbi was chatting away. I asked if they would prefer the door open or closed? Naturally, I received different replies from the sisters. Alona then let me know "Abbi always wants the door closed and I always want it open." So, I left it open a little. Even later on I walked past thier room and still heard a sweet, angelic voice and peeked my head in again. Alona saw me and said. "I always want to go to sleep but Abbi always keeps talking and talking." I couldn't help but smile.

Sharing a room with a chatty sister reminds me of my childhood years sharing a room with TWO sisters. Two sisters with white mice, cat skulls, perfectly dyed Easter Eggs - yellow, it looked really pretty perched on the soda bottle. It just became very smelly, over time. And a clock radio set to wake us on the loudest setting!

Man! I didn't have to get up as early as my two older sisters, yet that volume didn't seem to phase them. After burying my head under my pillow, tossing and turning, trying, with futility, to go back to sleep, it was usually me who got out of bed to turn down or turn OFF the clock radio while my sisters snoozed away!

The white mice were extra creepy to share a room with because they knew how to escape from their cage. I had the hardest time going to sleep while they were in residence. Never knowing if a mouse would make it's way to my warm bed, or nibble on my feet was more than this lily liver could handle.

Sisters, Sisters.
There were never such devoted sisters.
Caring, Sharing.
All kinds of weather, we stick together.

After chatting and music, the little ones finally nodded off to sleep. The next morning we went to our ward Christmas party.... more on that later!

What's so Special about January?

2009-01-05T17:08:00.003-07:00

If I could be half as disciplined as my sweet husband, I would be.... better! In an ongoing effort to encourage me, he has challenged me to set a goal to keep a journal this year (2009). It's a great idea! I can record fun things we do, funny and/or memorable things our grandchildren say, milestones in the lives of our selves and our children and their families, struggles and triumphs. Great idea!

To this end, I've decided to include significant memories I have from the past, by month.

January: Winter, Cold, White, Long

My sister Jane was born in January, 1955. She is the oldest child in our family, the first of five girls with one brother. She let me live with her for awhile in 1981 upon my return from Germany, where I lived with my parents and younger siblings for 5 years. On her birthday we also celebrate our nephew Ben's birthday (he's so handsome, I think he should do print modeling - but he thinks it's not for him) I'll have to take a photo of him to post and illustrate my opinion. Benjamin is the son of Reid and Charmalee Earl - Charmalee is my sister.

Jane and Ben also celebrate their birthdays with a grand nephew, Taber. Taber is the son of Natalie Earl, another off-spring of Reid and Charmalee. Taber makes me laugh. He's a little Ben. He idolizes his Uncle Ben, too! I'm pretty sure he'll turn 12 this year! Wow, a deacon!

Jennifer Jean Morgan (now McGregor) was also born in January, 1976.

A Bi-Centennial baby!

Jennifer was the first grand-child in the Blakeley family (her Mother's side). She was the cutest little thing. Now, she's a big bad teacher at Northridge High School! Well, she's actually quite petite but still a teacher! I'm sure she could easily get lost in the crowd of students and even be mistaken as one.

Val's Mom, Caren Bagley, also celebrates her birthday in January. Caren is a very talented lady. She is an accomplished pianist, quilter, crafter, seamstress, raises birds and bunnies, has a very green thumb and much more. She even paints! One of my favorite paintings is of a fawn in a woodland setting. She and my father-in-law Honey, live in Midway.

As a teenager, I went skiing every January weekend with my family. We had a season pass at Powder Mountain, in the Ogden Valley. I'm sooo old, I remember when it opened. I even worked there on weekends during a couple of seasons. Except for the steep, curving mountain road, it's a fun place to visit!

Another significant thing about Powder Mountain is that one of the original owners was Dr. Cobabe, the man who delivered me on my birthday, at St. Benedict's Hospital! Yes. I was sprinkled a Catholic on the day I was born! I'm a Mormon, now.

January is also the month Val proposed to me! It was a cold January night. So cold, the night air crystallized. After a nice dinner at Cafe Pierpont, Val took me on a carriage ride around downtown Salt Lake City and asked me if I would marry him. I said, "I would love to!" He had all the elements of what i wanted in a marriage proposal. It was sweet, private and romantic. Val incorporated the 'sweet' part by having my engagement ring put inside a chocolate candy from Mrs. Cavanaugh's. Very sweet on many layers! The privacy was of course the carriage ride around the city. Romance came in the form of him playing 'our song' Unforgettable!

A funny thing about the romantic part... Val called and requested the song from one of the radio stations he listens to; when it played, he recorded it with his cassette recorder (did I mention I'm old?) in preparation for the evening carriage ride. After the proposal he played the song for us. Well, he must have forgotten to check the batteries, or it was so cold outside it affected the batteries because it was a very slow rendition of the song and very funny. Alas, all was not lost. After we returned to my house, we plugged in the cassette player, replayed the song and danced together! So romantic!

Delightful December!

2009-01-05T15:46:00.000-07:00

Excluding the need to buy a new washer and dryer this month, December was a fun month and here's why...

Dinner and Lights in Ogden
December 12th Paul & Heather and our darling grandchildren drove up from Provo to spend the night. Friday evening we went to Chuck-a-Rama for dinner and then went to the city square to see the Christmas display. As a child, I would go there every year with my family and remember those treks with fondness. Going with grandchildren was even more fun! The display has grown over the years and it really was great. There is a new amphitheater with stage; when we arrived a lady was singing Christmas carols. It was a nice backdrop to all of the displays.

Alona and Abbi wanted to go see Santa Claus (I think Alona wanted to see if it would be the real Santa or a pretend Santa - she saw both this past holiday season!) So, rather than going directly to the line to the Santa cabin, I suggested we had to find him.

Our stroll around the square looking for Santa Claus was fun indeed. We peeked inside a little building that was a soda shop. They served hot chocolate at the soda shop and unfortunately one of the Snowmen drank a mug and melted right there in the shop! His hat and scarf were lying in a puddle on the floor and his friend (another Snowman) was sitting in shock next to his seat.

Temperatures were mild during our stroll. Can you believe we also came upon the Grinch! He was trying to find Whoville, I think. Even though he is a Grinch (small heart) he did let us have our photo taken with him. Not only was he confused about the direction of Whoville, he also thought our little Abbi was Cindy Lou Who. Silly Grinch! Abbigail Bagley is much cuter than Cindy Lou Who.

Strolling hand in hand with Abbi was so sweet for me. We talked and visited like two girlfriends... she told me about school (she's going to school you know, and taking a computer class). She has homework, which her Mommy helps her with, as needed. Abbi also helps Kacen, her brother, with his homework. Abbi also told me "Santa is very scary."

We strolled and visited, peeking in each building looking for the real Santa (I mean one that wasn't made of plastic or stuffed with poly stuffing) when we finally found Santa's cabin, with a long line. Undaunted, we hopped in line and visited some more while we inched closer and closer to see him. Alona and I also enjoyed visiting. She and I looked for words that started with the letter K and she would read the words to me. She also brought me up to speed on all of the things she is learning at school. She is very smart!

While we were waiting for our turn to see Santa, I asked Alona if she thought it would be the real Santa or a pretend Santa. She said she wouldn't know until she saw him! I suggested that it would be one of Santa's helpers because Santa was so busy at the North Pole getting everything ready for Christmas.

While we were waiting in line Heather treated the girls to a cup of Hot Chocolate. Of course it was very hot, too hot for little ones to partake of right away. So, we lifted the lids and blew and vistied some more. Alona likes Warm Chocolate better than Hot Chocolate (didn't I tell you she is smart!) After a few minuites of Heather cooling off Alona's cup and me blowing on Abbi's, they were able to enjoy warm chocolate.

With our visit to Santa complete, we headed back through the square to find the car all the while enjoying displays of Christmas. The guys, Paul, Val and Kacen were ahead of us so just us girls wandered through another section of the square and came upon the Nativity scene. Even though it was roped off, Alona and Abbi managed to get close. Abbi patted the camel's head and wished him Happy Birthday. She wanted to ride him, but that was an off limits area, so we had to say no. While looking at the Nativity, we sang Away in a Manger together then headed off to the car. Abbi wished them all a Happy Birthday one last time!

We had such a wonderful time and best of all, it included a sleepover! Which I'll tell you all about in another post.

An Attitude of Gratitude

2008-11-23T12:53:00.000-07:00

Although I always try to express gratitude, I'm grateful for Thanksgiving and the opportunity we have to pause and think about all we have and express appreciation for all of our wonderful blessings. I have so many blessings for which I'm thankful.

I'm grateful for my sweet, kind and loving parents, for the foundation they gave to me. I'm grateful for the sacrifices they made for me, for the love which they shared with me, for the life lessons they taught me, for my heritage.

My wonderful husband is such a blessing in my life. I'm grateful for him and to him. I'm thankful for his unconditional love, his kind and giving ways, his support. I love him for his valiant ways and the good example he is to me each day. I love how he serves our family and community. I love to see him interact with our children and grandchildren. He has a wonderful sense of humor and as my Mom always said... "He cleans up good!" He's my HBL.

Our children and grandchildren add completeness to my life and I'm so grateful for them, each one. I am so thankful for the opportunities we have to spend time together and make memories. I'm thankful for these memories that I can draw on when life is a little bumpy. I appreciate their love and acceptance of me.

Most importantly, I'm so very grateful for my Savior Jesus Christ and my kind and loving Father in Heaven. All things come from Him. Everything that is virtuous, lovely or of good report comes from Him.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and may you too have an Attitude of Gratitude!

The Vampire and Mrs. deMure

2008-11-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the television series the Ghost and Mrs. Muir? For whatever reason, the title to that program popped in my mind while creating this post!

Mrs. Muir was a widow living in a haunted house with her young son. Of course she didn't know it was haunted when she moved in. As luck would have it, the ghost was a very proper sort of fellow and very helpful to the widow.

I know demure isn't a word that most people would use to describe me, but it's a fun title to my post!

Halloween was such a fun day. Val was up before the sun checking the lighting for his castle and walkways. He worked the remainder of the daylight hours putting the finishing touches on the rooms of his castle. At about 5p I lured him in the house with homemade chicken noodle soup and hot biscuits. After dinner, we put the finishing touches on our costumes and took up residence at the castle.

Right about now I should be uploading a photo of the awesome structure but, let's just say, I'm forgetful sometimes. We recorded it on the camcorder but, not the camera. Suffice it to say, it was pretty dang cool!

Since I don't have a photo of the castle, here's a photo of our dining room decorated by my Vampire! He always does such a great job decorating for each holiday. I'm a lucky lady!

My responsibility for the evening was traffic control. I was supposed to let trick-or-treaters through in groups, no more than 10 at a time. Well, that's easier said than done! Some of the groups were bigger than 10 people, which created lines inside the castle too. I was also supposed to alert the castle personnel of children too young to scare. That wasn't as easy as it sounds either. Wyatt and I finally figured out a system so only about 30 little ones were traumatized. Eek! So sorry.

When it was their turn, I encouraged our visitors to get their candy from the coffin in the castle. When I asked the little ones if they knew what a coffin is I would usually get blank stares or a resounding NO!

Of course my handsome vampire was inside the coffin holding the lid down so the treat seekers were unable to open it. He could see them and after they gave up trying to open the lid he would rise up and ask what they were looking for. It was fun for most, I hope.

I was amazed at how many people came by. A few years ago, when we gave out microwave popcorn, we started counting. That particular year we ran out of the 240 bags of popcorn. This year we ran out of our 400 treat bags after just an hour and 15 minutes!

Despite an occasional sprinkle of rain, it was a warm pleasant evening. I was happy about that because I really, really hate being cold. Really.

Val and I have talked about it a few times over the last week and haven't decided what the occasion would be that we could stop this major production. A trip out of town? Moving? Old age? Hmmmm what could it be?

Victims and Vampires

2008-10-27T11:50:00.000-06:00

It was Sunday morning. Val had been gone about 10 minutes (a meeting, what else on a Sunday morning?). I was sitting in the kitchen, looking not lovely, and the doorbell rang.

Now, I was always taught calling or visiting before 9am and after 9pm was not polite, so a 9:10am doorbell was a little too early for visitors. Wondering if it was a Deacon calling on Val, I answered the door.

Deacon, nope! Syracuse City policeman, YES!

That's right, Officer Bailey (you know, if you change the i to a g, it spells Bagley) was there to get our name and telephone number for his report.

My first thought upon seeing him was 'Oh great, someone stole our Halloween decorations and this fine officer is returning the stolen pieces.'

Now this was a safe assumption because it has happened before. Sunday morning visits from a Syracuse City police officer. Returning our decorations that had been moved to another yard in our fair city (I think it was Easter and Christmas), it's happened!

Not this time. This time, someone, I'll assume a teenage boy and his friends, decided to drive through our fair city and shoot out the car windows of cars parked on the street! Our big boat, the Mercury, was a victim!

We were the 7th home Officer Bailey visited that Sabbath morn. While he was on our front stoop he received a call about the 8th victim... I'm sure there were more calls throughout that beautiful autumn morning.

Now, I suppose you are wondering how I got the photo of the shattered window? After all, wasn't I just complaining that I did not have the cool tools for better blogs?

Well, I made a deal with a Vampire.

That's right! A Vampire!

I agreed to let said Vampire do Vampire things to my body in return for a new digital camera.

Don't worry.

This vampire is really handsome.

He has a very nice bouquet (aka - he smells really good!). He doesn't have very pointed eye teeth. He has a great, new haircut. Best of all, I've tried it out and I REALLY like kissing him!

Oh yeah, I have to help him "scare" on Halloween, too!

The Bagley Castle, complete with it's own vampire, will be haunting the children of our fair city this Halloween. And, I'll be there to help the handsome Vampire with his ritual... I suppose you could call me the Lady of the Castle?!?

But first... we have to fill 400 goodie bags with treats for the brave ones who visit our castle.

I'll post photos of the Castle and resident Vampire soon. Obviously it will be after the sun goes down and the Vampire is ready to reveal himself... OOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooo!

Go, Red Ladybugs!

2008-10-22T18:56:00.000-06:00

Miss Alona played soccer this late summer, early autumn in Roy. It was so fun to watch and cheer for her, even though she got shy on us when we did cheer. The game of soccer for 5 and 6 year old girls is simply fun! They are excited to be there and improved each week. Timid little girls bunched together on the field seemingly waiting for a teammate to kick the ball is so sweet. We definitely saw improvement each week and some girls became more aggressive. It was also refreshing to be on the sidelines with other mellow families. Parents always shouting out directions, if not criticism, to their children are most unwelcome to me. These soccer Moms and Dads were very polite.

Of course, it was also fun to spend time with Abbi and Kacen, too. Abbi and I did a few cheers with 'movements' on the sidelines. Abbi loved it, not knowing Grandma Ruthie didn't really know what she was doing. :) Kacen, Smiley as I call him, loved being out there playing. One Saturday was terrible rainy weather, he was still out there playing with a smile on his cute little face!

That rainy day transformed those cute little Red Ladybugs into Wet Ladybugs. They sure were troopers. I think they doubled their body weight that day while wearing their soggy clothes.

Sigh! The season is over but it was fun while it lasted!

Hello Again, Hello!

2008-10-20T15:06:00.000-06:00

I suppose it's because of my age, or perhaps it's because I don't have the right equipment... I just know my blog isn't as fun as others I enjoy following. I don't take photos as often as I should and/or could, so I don't post about some of the fun things Val and I do each day, week and month.

Sigh! I suppose I should change my thought process and think of this as my journal and not something to entertain my small readership.

Fun things we've been doing...

Val and I went to Double Oak, Texas earlier this month to visit one of my friends and her family. Harold & Christina McIntyre and their family were the consummate hosts. Alexa (11), Austin (9), Nicolette (5), Christian (3) and Brigette (3 months) were so fun to be around. As always, the children loved Val. The minute he gets out a pencil, pen, sharpie or whatever drawing instrument he has access to, children, and adults, are smitten with him. Nicolette was especially sweet on my man (can't say as I blame her) and loved playing Old Maid with him.

Christina and I met while we were both working at the Warner Center Marriott Hotel in Woodland Hills, California. I transferred there from Point Clear, Alabama in approximately May, 1989 and Christina welcomed me with an open heart and has been a wonderful friend ever since. It was so fun to spend time together after such a long break (Nicolette was 18 months old last time we saw each other). She is one of the kindest, most sincere and loving women I've been blessed to know and love. Christina has such a strong testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ, the gospel and church. She has always been a wonderful example to me. Alexa, Austin and Nicolette have been able to recite all thirteen Articles of Faith since they were three years old! Harold & Christina are definitely trying to raise righteous children unto the Lord. I was touched and impressed to see Christina's daily efforts to teach her children about our Savior, the scriptures and being good examples.

While we were there, Val painted a mural on Christian's bedroom wall. The mural is a castle theme with a fire breathing dragon, a castle with a moat and a knight in shining armor with his princess on his steed (see what I mean about not using the right tools? If I were really on the ball, I would have taken my old digital camera on the trip and taken a photograph to post here). Hopefully Christina will email some of her photos to me.

We also went to the Texas state fair where I enjoyed a Corny Dog - Mmmmm delicious! Going to the fair was a Mommy Moment for me. The last time I went to the fair my parents and Matthew and his family were with me. My Mom introduced me to the delicious corny dog. It was fun to go back with Val and the McIntyres.

The Sixth Floor Museum (formerly the Texas Book Depository where Oswald shot President Kennedy) was also on our list of activities. Even though I had been to the museum before, it was nice to go with Val, Harold and Christina. We enjoyed feeling like we were experiencing a part of history.

While in Texas we enjoyed balmy 75-80 degree weather, were lulled to sleep by the symphony of crickets and early morning time enjoying the sunrise at Twin Lakes. I couldn't help but sing to myself... "I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world, Heavenly Father created for me."

My life has truly been enriched by the McIntyre family.

WOW! What a Summer

2008-09-02T16:16:00.000-06:00

This summer, like most summers, has been very busy and somewhat hectic. Based on my previous post about Honey, Laura Michelle and Kellie journeyed down from Alaska and we were able to spend time with them over a three week period! That Kellie girl is so, so cute! And smart! Looks, brains and personality... fun to love and share kisses!

Mr. Bagley has been the Scoutmaster since July. He went to Scout camp, came home for a few days then took another road trip to California for an Eldorado High School Drama Club and Choir Reunion. It spanned, I think, about 10 years of graduating classes. He had a marvelous time reuniting with some of his favorite people from his youth! It was so fun to see him get into the email thing (which has been a bit of a frustrating process for him). Now he's addicted! He checks his email at least once a day and is really good at replying to messages. Now, we need to work on originating messages for future communique'! :)

August was also rather busy. However, we did manage to go to Wyoming twice in August... the first weekend and this past weekend... which included snow! I just LOVE wearing my comfy sweatshirts so I was very pleased with the cooler temperatures. I didn't feel so hot this past weekend so my participation was a bit subdued but I really enjoyed spending time with the Hilles, my Hubby and Honey. I suppose you could call it a Triple H weekend!

Gertie is living in a darling apartment in SLC, in the Sugar House area. It's fun to have her back in our lives on a more regular basis... just wish we had more accommodating schedules. Gertie works evenings while I work the day shift.

Heather made a tough decision and decided to move back up to Davis county to be nearer to family and hopefully more moral support. Paul will continue to live in Provo while he finishes school. Hopefully, after he completes his program, they will be able to move to our area permanently. Selfish of me, I know. It's so nice to have them closer and spend more time with our darling grand-children. I hope we can get in to a regular pattern of visits.

Speaking of grandchildren... Miss Alona started Kindergarten this year! I can't believe she is growing up so fast. Not only is she a school girl now, she also lost her first tooth this weekend! While reading a book with her Mom it just fell out!

Sweeter than Honey

2008-06-04T19:54:00.000-06:00

Honey! He is such a sweet, kind man.
Honey! He's my Father-in-law.
Honey! We love him so.

Honey isn't doing too well today. In fact, he's in the hospital in Heber City. He has Type II Diabetes and hasn't managed it as well as he should and now is suffering from very high glucose levels. My Dad has Type II also and his Doctor doesn't like his glucose to be over 100. I'm not sure where Honey's Doctor wants his to be, but 529 is way too high.

I feel so helpless. I feel sad for my sweet father-in-law. I wish I could fix it and that Honey could go home and resume his life. Unfortunately, resuming 'his life' would land him in the hospital again.

What an emotional roller coaster this day has been.

XOXOXOXOX to all of the sweet honeys in my life!

Catching Up!

2008-05-23T14:21:00.000-06:00

They say that catching up is hard to do... and it's true!

A few days after our Bagley Easter Egg Hunt and Family Dinner, I received this beautiful delivery at my office...

You know how fast thoughts go through your mind... really fast. So, in less than a minute I tried to think "Who would send me flowers at work?" It's not my husband's style (although I've left hints from time to time); last time I received flowers at my office was late last summer. A vendor screwed up one of my jobs and made me cry and so he sent me flowers. However, I wasn't at odds with any of my vendors at the moment; it wasn't my birthday, anniversary or Professional Assistants Day; I wasn't in the hospital or sick at home. Who would send me flowers?

Looking at the enclosure card is usually the best way to solve the mystery, so I read the card... Oh my gosh, they were from Jared & Tami (our oldest son and his sweet wife!) with a thoughtful expression of thanks for hosting the family Easter Egg Hunt. Wow! It made me cry for joy and reflect on how wonderful it is to have children who become adults and appreciate your efforts enough to spend their hard earned money on you! Tears of pure joy and gratitude! Thank you so much Jared & Tami!

Val, my HBL, was out of town for a few days so of course I had to complete a project! Whenever Val goes out of town, I try to do something major which usually involves painting a room and although my intentions are good, I don't finish before he returns. This year I was determined to complete my project so I had to be realistic in what I chose.

Well, a little over two years ago, I decided I wanted to replace the baseboards in the living room (which is staged as a dining room - I say staged because rarely do we eat in there). Anyhoo, we replaced the basebords and I sent Val to Lowe's to get some filler to fill the nail holes and gaps between the wall and baseboard prior to applying the second coat of paint. Being the uneducated folks we are about home improvements, I used what Val brought home (the only instruction he had was to get the kind that could be painted). Now I've used stuff to fill nail holes before and it is very user friendly. Goes on pink, turns white when dry and the excess wipes off with a damp cloth. So I filled holes and gaps and as I journeyed down the room, I wasn't too careful about containing the filler to small areas. I knew I could damp wipe off the excess, right? WRONG! The stuff wouldn't sand, wipe or scrape off. It was awful and I was tired so I cleaned up with a promise to myself to finish the job next week. Ha! Those things have been haunting me forever!

There has also been a very unattractive thing I see whenever sitting down at the island bar in our kitchen... this awful view, to be exact...

So, I scrapped, wiped and sanded the baseboards in the living room, entryway and kitchen so I could paint them. It was a long, tedious project but I finished and they look great! Look at my view from the bar now....

I also attended Mortgage Loan Officer school in April. That was a different experience. I've worked in the Real Estate/Mortgage industry over 15 years as a support person. Never, ever, had the desire to be a realtor or loan officer. So why did I go to school? I've been in my current position 10 years. My responsibilities have evolved, I've learned so much, developed more skills, have nice flexibility with my schedule, work in an almost perfect environment and earn a decent salary, so why go to school? I'm feeling a bit bored and unchallenged.

So, I'm going to get my license and possibly pursue reverse mortgages. I've never been a sales person. I really dislike asking people for money - even when it's for the office birthday, wedding, baby, retirement gift fund - so why this you think? Hopefully for a refreshing challenge.

May is a big birthday month for the Bagley Family. In all, Jared, Laura, Roxanne, Heather, Val, Margaret and Bret have birthdays. Plus our anniversary is in May, as well as Mother's Day. The week before Val's birthday, Heather asked if I thought my sister Charmalee would baby sit for her on May 17th (Val's birthday) while she participated in a Bridal Shower for her cousin's fiancee'. I thought Charmalee most likely wouldn't mind helping her out, but hey, what about me? Thoughtful Heather figured we would be busy celebrating Val's birthday so wouldn't be available.

Hey, I'm still getting plenty of mileage out of the 50th Birthday party I hosted for my darling husband last year! To be perfectly honest, I hadn't even given it (his day) a thought, not to mention planned anything! So, I said forget about Charmalee, bring them to our house... I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate Val's birthday than spending time with our grand-children! That of course got me thinking and I decided we'd have a Grandpa Birthday Party. I made cupcakes, my friend Sherry did up some helium balloons for us, we filled treat bags.

I sent Grandpa shopping for the stuff to go inside and only about half of it actually made it inside the bags. Some things had to be hidden because of choking hazards and other items were too big for the small favor bags (pom poms to be exact) so the bags were a bit sparse but fun anyway! Grandpa, being the fun and funny guy that he is also bought party hats! Kacen was inside taking a nap and missed out on this digital moment.

We had lots of fun playing, popping balloons, exploring our neighborhood, buying pink lemonade at the local lemonade stand, singing Happy Birthday to Grandpa and eating cupcakes!

Tuesday, before Val's birthday, Ellen called with an idea of getting playoff tickets for the Jazz. I love the Jazz and attending games is great fun but playoff tickets? Absolutely YES! So, we surprised Val with tickets to the game and were very disappointed the Jazz did not win.

Well, that's quite a bit of posting for me... but I just want to say, Ellen and Steve, Val, Heather, Alona, Abbi, Kacen, Jared & Tami and everyone else I love.. thanks for creating such fun memories for me! Thanks for reading, too!

Spring is in the Air!

2008-03-25T15:46:00.000-06:00

Val and I have an ongoing debate about which season is best... Spring or Autumn. Val will debate for Autumn while I hold out for Spring. While I don't want him to get too comfortable being right, Autumn is an equally wonderful season. His argument that won me over is that Autumn isn't as soggy as Spring. Nevertheless, Spring is wonderfully refreshing.

Saturday we hosted the 3rd Annual Bagley Easter Egg Hunt. The sky was beautiful and clear and even though it was about 56 degrees, the breeze was a bit brisk for me. Breeze or not, I think all of the eggs and other hidden items were found, dinner was delicious and it was a very pleasant affair. The only down side was Andrew and Natalie were unable to join us because Natalie wasn't feeling well. We missed them.

Saturday morning, Laura Michelle called to say Kellie received her package from us. I was so happy to learn it arrived on time. However, I still had to swallow my tears because they are sooo far away and we miss them, too.

The week before Easter I couldn't help but think about the comment Pres. Hinckley made during one of his talks last year... something to the effect that there wouldn't be Christmas if there were no Easter. It is such a simple yet profound statement and so very true. I love Easter for it's many traditions and symbols - spring, rebirth and most of all the testimony I have that He is risen.

I hope Spring is a wonderful season for you and your loved ones!

The 5 Browns - Amazingly Wonderful!

2008-02-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Val and I had such a wonderful time! As a Valentine gift, my Valentine gave me tickets to The 5 Browns concert at Kingsbury Hall on the University of Utah campus. They are 5 siblings from Alpine, Utah, trained in classical piano. They each attended Julliard School in NY. Anyhoo, it was a wonderful concert and weekend. Since we were going to be in SLC Saturday evening, I thought it would be fun to spend the weekend there, as well. So, after we went to the matinee' (Bucket List) with my Dad and sister, Margaret, we headed for the big city for fun and relaxation.

We stayed at the SLC Marriott Downtown, where I worked and where we had our wedding reception all those years ago. While downtown, we explored Temple Square and saw the new (to me) movie at Legacy Theater at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. The movie Joseph Smith; Prophet of the Restoration is a beautiful depiction of this wonderful man's life and all he suffered and acheived to bring to pass the translation of the Book of Mormon and restoration of the church of Jesus Christ.

Before we headed east to the U, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at Market Street Grill. I've never had a bad meal at that restaurant. The thick crust french bread is always a welcome treat after being seated. Then, the hot crab, artichoke and spinach dip was wunderbar. Val ordered shark with potatoes, broccoflower and Clam Chowder and I enjoyed my Alaskan Halibut Oscar with rice, broccoflower and mixed greens salad. For dessert, we ordered 4 layer chocolate cake, to go, and enjoyed it after the concert. Mmmmm!

While there isn't much going on downtown, due to the renovation, it was great to spend quality time with each other without everyday distractions. Despite the quietness of the city, I love it there!

Potpourri of Thoughts

2008-01-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

What will this day be like, I wonder? What will my future be, I wonder? Sounds dramatic, eh? A common thought of mine, nonetheless. One, because I love the song and also because I really do wonder what each day will bring.

A Friday afternoon call from Heather brought an evening of fun with her and three of our darling grandchildren. After meeting for dinner in SLC, we went to the Church museum and enjoyed the displays and exhibits, especially the children's section on the second floor. Alona and Abbi loved the baby dolls and dress up clothes; Kacen had a great time playing on the little people furniture and with the sheep puppets. During dinner, I don't recall what we were talking about but during a conversation Alona said, "Wait, I want to tell you something." "Okay," we said, "What is it you want to say?" Alona replied, "I want to sleep over at your house." And so the adventure began...

Alona slept in the guest room; Abbi wanted to "sleep in Grandpa's bed!" I'm not sure ow much sleep everyone else received but I sure didn't get much. Anyone who's done it know, you don't get much sleep with wiggly toddlers! Grandpa, the scamp, scampered away to the sofa in the family room around 2am. In the dark cover of the morning, at 6:24 am, to be exact, I was brought to full attention with this sweet, crystal clear voice ask "Where's Grandpa?" And so our Saturday began!

Abbi and I ventured to the family room to get Grandpa and then we all went back upstairs to get Alona, then back to 'Grandpa's bed' to read some books (don't forget I'm a grandma, I'm not accustomed to hitting the ground chasing children each morning... so I had to do something to slow the momentum... story time was great!:))

Alona requested waffles for breakfast and so Grandpa complied. We enjoyed breakfast and then, honestly, it is a bit of a blur... I know they bathed and made Valentine cards; found every flashlight they could; played with Freckles and friends; built a train track and rolled the train; Hide and Seek (in the words of Abbi "You count, You hide")and the most rowdy activity of all, building houses, forts, mountains and castles with the sofa cushions and pillows. I have many cute expressions to add to my Grandma Journal...!

Sunday was P-Day for me... Prep-Day for my colonoscopy Monday morning. A fairly peaceful day was interrupted with the sad news of the passing of our sweet Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley. Pres. Hinckley... my Prophet... was a charming, inspiring, loving, wise man. Always encouraging us to 'Stand a Little Taller', be a little kinder, strive a little harder. How exciting to know he is reunited with his sweet wife Marjorie Pay Hinckley. As my sweet friend Christina said, "Can you imagine the stir there was this evening as his spirit returned to heaven?" I can't help but think how wonderful it must be for him to be reunited with his parents, wife and other loved ones but to also be reunited with those prophets of old, and the Prophet Joseph, each of whom he bore fervent testimony. (I can envision my sweet Mutti there with a radiant smile on her face, too) I'm so thankful for this sweet, gentle man.

Then came Monday! My mother-in-law, Caren, celebrated another birthday today! My colon screening went well and I won't need another one for 10 years! Yes!

Hello! It's me

2008-01-19T18:17:00.000-07:00

Yea! I finally took sometime to figure out how to reset my password. So now, instead of just being a casual observer, I can participate, again!

Today, I saw Heather's DH tag so I thought I'd go for it...;) However, I'll refer to my sweetheart as...

My HBL... Hunk of Burning Love (it's from a song)

What’s his name? Val Chadwick
How long have you been together? 15 years, WOW!
How long did you date? Five Months
How old is he? 50 and oh so handsome
Who eats more? Definitely My HBL
Who said I love you first? Val... and so my reply was "I loke you" More than like not quite love.
Who is taller? Val, by 6"
Who is smarter? It depends on the subject, I think we are equals.
Who does laundry? Me! Val is the transporter of soiled and clean laundry but I do everything else. It's my second full-time job!
Who does the dishes? We both do!
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? My HBL
Who pays the bills? That's me!
Who mows the lawn? Valiant
Who cooks dinner? We take turns. Val makes tomato sandwiches and scrambled eggs better than me. :)
Who drives when you are together? Usually Val, he doesn't like some of my driving habits.
Who is more stubborn? Definitely - ME! Val is much more forgiving and less judgemental
Who asked out who first? Val asked me out... It was a blind date set-up by my good friend, Julie, and his Mom, Caren.
Who kissed who first? Well, I kissed Val first, not because I'm forward... I lost a challenge! When single and dating, Val always felt like too much energy was wasted wondering about the fisrt kiss, when would it happen, how would it happen, where would it happen, what would be the reaction, etc... So, on our third date we went bowling and the challenge was whomever had the lowest score would kiss the winner goodnight. I thought I was a pretty good bowler but alas, my HBL beat me... and the rest is history!
Who proposed? Val, of course! It was Unforgettable!
Who has more siblings? I do - 4 Sisters and 1 Brother compared to Val's 1 Sister and 1 Brother
Who wears the pants in the family? We are equals!
Tag to anyone else who would like to participate!

Spring, Glorious Spring!

2007-03-17T12:45:00.000-06:00

I looked out the window and what did I see?
Yellow, white and purple crocus blooming just for me!
Spring always brings me such a nice surprise...
lovely flowers blooming right before my eyes.

I love all four of the seasons we enjoy in Utah, but I love spring and autumn - the most! This spring seems especially sweet because we had such a long cold winter. January was the coldest winter month in 34 years! In fact, my geraniums that I tried to winter over for the second year froze in the garage. So sad...

I love opening the windows to let the breezes freshen up the house.

I love to see the drapes rustle in the gentle breeze.

I love taking down the drapes for their annual cleaning, too.

I love walking around our yard to see the bulbs poking their heads up, growing and developing so they can put on their colorful splendor.. blooms!

I love seeing the popcorn popping on the apricot trees.

I love singing the song, too.

I just love Mother Nature and all She shares with us each season and everyday.

I have another post I began working on last September. Perhaps one of these days I'll finish it and post. But for now, I just wanted to share a few of my happy thoughts about this glorious time of year we call Spring...even if the calendar says she won't be here for a few more days;)

Happy Spring!

Oh, Happy St. Patrick's Day, too!

Truth is Marching....

2006-07-02T22:55:00.000-06:00

I love Independence Day!

I love being an American!

I love all those who have given their lives to defend our freedoms!

I love and appreciate all those who currently serve so diligently to defend the freedoms of those in other countries.

I appreciate the family members who are left behind to love, worry about and support thier loved ones who are serving in the Armed Forces.

I love that my husband shares these same feelings and is very patriotic.

I love patriotic music and the feelings of gratitude it stirs in my heart.

I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free.

Those are the lyrics to one of the many patriotic songs we often listen to when traveling in the car.

Truth is marching, truth is marching... is part of the chorus to another song in our collection.

Whenever I listen to this song I can't help but smile, remembering the time we were going somewhere in the car with our children, the music playing, all of us singing along as best we could to the music (I always wanted to have my own "von Trapp"family) when I noticed Laura, Andrew and Brandon had altered the words a bit and were singing...

Ruth is marching, Ruth is marching...

I was touched.

As a stepmom, sometimes it's difficult to find and know my place. Our children are very fortunate to have two loving parents who, despite their divorce, have always tried to keep their children's well being formemost in their minds. So, because of this wonderful attitude and efforts of their parents, my goal was to support my husband and create a safe, loving environment and opportunities for Val to continue to create memories with the children.

Although in the beginning I sometimes failed miserably, I would have moments like 'Ruth is marching...' where my heart would swell and I would think "maybe I'm not such a failure after all."

Now our youngest is preparing for college, we have two wonderful daughters-in-law, a great son-in-law, two beautiful grandaughters and two more grandchildren preparing to make thier debut - and further enrich our lives. With all of this growth, physically and numerically, I feel blessed to reap the rewards of trying to be a good stepmom.

I appreciate the kindness and generosity they each share with me.

I'm so grateful we feel comfortable expressing our love for each other.

I'm so grateful and proud to be a Bagley-American!

Suds! I Need Suds!

2006-06-11T09:30:00.000-06:00

To me, suds are an indicator of how clean my laundry will be each time I do a batch of wash. The frustrating thing about my need for suds is I have to be patient - not one of my virtues.

According to the instructions printed on the inside lid of my washing machine... You can turn on the machine, toss in the batch of laundry and add the laundry detergent or soap (soap is better for fine washables and babies and children's clothing because it is less harsh and won't irritate delicate skin) while the tub is filling with water.

If I follow these instructions, which are certainly easy, No Suds!

However, if I follow the instructions on the container of laundry detergent/soap I should fill the tub with water, add the detergent and then after the tub is filled (and there are lots of suds) - add the batch of laundry.

When I follow these instructions, which take patience - Ladies and Gentlemen, We have Suds!

So, guess which method I choose to follow? The sudsy one!

Are my clothing and other washables any cleaner? It's hard to say, but I feel better about the results.

One thing I have learned about laundry detergent/soap is that the textile manufacturers say the worst thing we do for our clothing is use too much detergent/soap. That's right, we should follow the loading instructions listed on the detergent/soap containers but we should not follow the instructions for measurements.

I use half the amount of detergent listed in the instructions.

Hard water, too much detergent/soap, the wrong water temperature and inadequate rinsing all cause dingy results. Of course mixing lights and darks contribute to off-colored apparel, too.

So, my tips for better results in your laundry room...

1. Pre-treat stains
2. Don't go outside in your stocking feet (that's why we have shoes or slippers)
3. Use less detergent/soap - 1/4 cup max (it's the residual detergent that makes fabric dingy and stiff)
4. Separate Lights and Darks (don't put red socks in with white socks)
5. If you have hard water - use a water softening agent (20 Mule Team Borax)
6. Follow clothing label instructions - if it says No Bleach - don't use bleach, use non-chlorine bleach - like Biz or Clorox 2
7. If you can, do a second rinse (that's when I add fabric softener)
8. Wash towels twice - the second time without detergent/soap (basically that's 2 extra rinses and they'll be very soft)
9. Never use fabric softener on your towels (they'll be more absorbent)
10. When possible, hang your laundry outside to dry, Mother Nature is the perfect whitening agent for your whites
11. When using a dryer - fold or hang clothing while still warm - it will eliminate the "Yes, I slept in my clothes" look.

Well, that's it for Laundry 101 by rrrt!

If you have more Tips and Tricks for awesome laundry results - please share!

May all your batches of laundry be filled with suds!

Love you!

2006-05-31T07:52:00.000-06:00

The Caboose has Entered the Station!

That's right! Our caboose has entered the station of life. Brandon Clark Bagley is graduating from high school today. It's hard to believe our cute little freckle faced, strawberry blonde, eyelashes to die for, quiet son has reached this milestone in his life.

And he's done it with dignity and success.

Congratualtions Brandon!

You did it!

2006-05-23T09:55:00.000-06:00

Memorial to My Mutti

Perhaps it's because we are on the eve of Memorial Day, perhaps it's because Mother's Day recently passed or, perhaps it's because I've been experiencing such tender feelings for my children lately (thanks to them sharing their lives with us via their blogs), or, just perhaps, it's all of the aformentioned and more; I've been contemplating establishing my own blog.
So... ta da... here it is!

Because it is the eve of Memorial Day, 2006 and because I am thinking about and missing my Mutti so much, I decided now is the time to get started.

If you didn't know her, I'm sorry.

If you did... you know what I mean when I say she was awesome! My Mutti was funny, kind, talented, caring and smart. It never ceased to amaze me how smart she was, and non-chalant about it, too. She was unpretentious, some times even had a feeling that she was lacking but most of all it was her love of life and love of her family and friends that inclined people to gravitate to her. Of course her awesome cooking abilitlies were a yummy bonus!

It was often said that when my Mom and Dad got married (in February, 1954) my Mom couldn't boil water. When she passed away in February, 2002 she was a very accomplished chef (although she wouldn't refer to herself as a chef)! She grew to love cookbooks, was a test kitchen for Betty Crocker (she 'earned' coupons for food which is how she helped contribute to the family income). Many people helped her in her quest to improve her cooking skills. My Grandpa and Grandma Blakeley helped start her collection of cookbooks as a newlywed.

I don't even know if we counted how many cookbooks she had in her collection when she passed away.

I know there were two, floor to ceiling, bookcases filled with her cookbooks and food magazines.

Many of my fondest chilhood memeories are tied to my Mom in the kitchen baking up yummy stuff.

I know that's one reason why food is a comfort to me (and why I'm fluffy!).

Last week Heather and I got togehter and made stawberry jam - my first attempt without my Mom here to coach, guide and join in the fun. Of course I didn't read the directions right and although our strawberrry jam tasted good, it was more like strwaberry syrup because I didn't add enough pectin.

Heather was a trooper. I wish I would have taken a photo of her with her apron on, berry juice up to her elbows and her pregnant little tummy barely noticeable under all the jam making spots!

This experience in the kitchen with Heather led me to thoughts about my Mother.

How did she do it everyday with six children underfoot?

I told Heather if I were a better Mother and wife, we would have been enjoying the fruits of our labor by eating our homemade strawberry jam on fresh homemade bread, still warm from the oven.

That's what my Mom did.

She made bread the same day she bottled jams and jellies.

Then she'd share with us and it was heavenly!

I remember once my Mom saying "Whoever invented bread must surely be in Heaven."

I really could go on and on and on and on (just like the energizer bunny) about my Mutti.

I send hugs and kisses to her in heaven everyday.

When she isn't visiting with her family and loved ones, she is most surely seeking out the creator(s) of bread as she knew and loved it.

Since I don't have time to go on and on and on and on about her right now, let me share a list of things I love and admire about my Mutti...

She is my best friend
She loves my Dad
She loves each of her children (5 daughters and 1 son)
She loves each of her grandchildren ( 8 granddaughters and 9 grandsons)
She loves her great-grandson and 5 great grand-daughters
She loves her two great grand children waiting for their turn to debut
She taught me tolerance
She taught me honesty
She taught me integrity
She taught me kindness
She taught me how to give
She tried to teach me to be brave (still working on that one)
She told my husband he was brave to marry me!
She listens to my joys
She listens to my woes
She wiped away many of my tears
She shared many laughs with me
She taught me how to cook
She encouraged me to develop my talents
She let my Dad teach me how to sew
She taught me how to clean and keep house
She taught me how to do laundry (and I'm dang good at it)
She explored the world with me
She endured many embarassing moments brought on by me
She endured many heart pricks and heartaches caused by me
She and my Dad shared their love of gardening with me
She learned with me
She loves me (even though she knows so many of my 'warts')
She is my Mutti
I admire her ability to make friends
I admire her abilities to encourage each of us
I admire the strength, stamina and tolerance for pain she showed to each of us when she was sick and in the hospital
I admire her zest for life
I love how she incorporated life in with her butter!
I admire the testimony of families she enjoys
I admire her ability to seek out things we all like or enjoy and share with each of us (She knew my husband loves snickerdoodle cookies and so she would bake a double batch for him periodically)
I admire her for all the people who love her in return
I admire her for the legacy of family she helped create

Yes, I love my Mutti.

I miss her, too.

Since she chose to be creamated, I don't have a graveside to visit on special occasions that remind me of her, her birthday and Memorial Day.

My sweet Dad made vaults for each of us and shared her ashes with us, too.

Whenever I feel like giving her a hug, I hug her in her vault.

She goes with me when I go to places I love and I know she would love being there too (she'll be accompanying Val & I to Wyoming this weekend).

I love my Dad for using his woodworking talents to make each of his children a vault so we can each have her with us, always.

I know I referred to my Mutti in present and past tense, which may seem wacky to you. However, I know her spirit lives on and she is with us and loves us, still.

Thanks for sharing this special time with me as I pay tribute to my Mutti.

I love each of you!