It all began a week ago, when I decided that our desktop computer needed to go to a computer hospital for a little tune up. How was I to know that was the beginning of a week from he__ __! The wonderful computer geeks at our local Staples, completely and utterly destroyed my computer. When I got it back all my photos, documents, programs, everything was gone!!!!!
Have you seen a grown woman sob over a computer monitor? It isn't pretty! It was worse than Oprah's "ugly crying." My mascara melted to my armpits, my face was white as a pair of brand new whitey tighties! Each of my kids called and tried to console me, but the devastation of it all was too much. Every grandchild picture was gone, and some computer geek had my blood on his hands!!!!!
After the initial crying period (that went on way too long) , my survival instincts kicked in. I realized, "Oh, I have Carbonite...everything will be fine, everything will be backed up." I went to bed Tuesday night believing that I could get my stuff restored. I spent a sleepness night tossing and turning and worrying about my photos. How could I have intrusted a computer nerd at Staples with the most important stuff in my life? I'll tell you how it happened. I could not understand a word out of the techs mouth! He had an accent, and when he started flapping his lips with tech talk, I believed he knew what he was doing. I agreed to have them do whatever, but I did remind them that I did not, under any circumstances, want to loose my pictures. Obviously, he didn't understand a word out of my mouth either.
So back to Carbonite. My first call to them was answered by some guy sitting at a computer in India. I spent two hours having him direct me around my computer. Finally we started restore, and I thought I was done. Silly, silly, me! Six restores later, 3 online people, 2 more phone people, and hours upon hours of staring at the computer...and finally some success! The only people who really helped me were two online people with the names of Sonja and Jake. The last guy, Carlos, wanted me to take apart my computer and change a wireless connection to wired. I decided he was NUTS, and got off line with him quickly.
Do you see why I have become a basket case! Every time the computer would start restoring, the computer would loose power or something, and it would shut down. I got up at 1:30 AM, 4:30 AM, and 6:30 AM just to wiggle the mouse and make sure the computer didn't go to sleep ( even though it was set to never go to sleep.) Someone must have forgot to tell my computer this because it still wants to nap all the time.
When I finally got most of my pictures back, I decided to copy them onto a memory stick. This too I thought would be quick and easy. Well, four memory sticks and cards later...I still did not have my 1000 pictures back. So yesterday I went and put an 8 MG memory stick. I was praying that it would work, and it did...kind of.
Thanks to my daughter, who isn't afraid to click in and out of things, we finally got everything copied onto my memory stick, and to my laptop. But, I'm still not done. We are still missing programs. When Larry went to pick up the computer, the tech said he had gotten rid of programs he didn't think we would need. Are you kidding me? How can a computer geek know what programs I don't need? I don't even know what I don't need!
As of tonight, I think I have everything working but two deleted programs. I have managed to get a lot of things working myself. So why did I need a computer geek? I guess to teach me some valuable lessons.
1. Only talk to people who speak English when it comes to computer repairs
2. Don't go to Staples
3. Don't trust Carbonite completely
4. Backup everything somewhere else
5. Put everything in writing so they don't have a memory fade
6. Practice praying...you will need it
Lastly, I do not think I want another computer tech near my machine. With this kind of help...who needs them. I can have a nervous breakdown without them...thank you very much:)
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Passwords areJust Plain Annoying!
Somehow I need to come up with a better system of keeping my passwords. Up until recently I have used basically two passwords for everything. Then I got SCAMMED! I had to reset passwords, and now I did such a good job...I can' remember half of them!
This memory problem can be attributed to three things: age, age, and more age! Honestly, I started by listing passwords in my planner. But I don't always want to get up and look for my planner. And usually when I do get it...it doesn't have the passwords I needed.
Next plan was to use post it notes. I love those things. I consider myself Queen of post it use. They were my life blood when I taught school. I have continued to be a fan of anything associated with post it notes. The trouble with these, is that I get so many on my bulletin board, that they eventually fall off, I see a piece of paper on the floor, and I throw it away. Then some time later, I realize what I have so carefully disposed of.
Also, the heat in my "office" wears the stickiness right off those notes.
So, I began putting the post it notes up with bulletin board pins. But honestly, I have run out of space. They are layered on my bulletin board, where many have remained hidden for some time. So...what to do?
I thought of making a list and posting on my bulletin board; but then Larry and Jon would have access to all of my passwords also. I have nothing to hide, and I trust them...but sharing passwords is like sharing underwear...NOT COOL!
After much thought and deliberation, I believe I am going to go with the list idea, and hide the list somewhere where I can easily access it. But even as I write this, I know what will happen. I will hide the list so well...I'll never be able to find it again. So, back to the thinking board. Passwords are just annoying!
This memory problem can be attributed to three things: age, age, and more age! Honestly, I started by listing passwords in my planner. But I don't always want to get up and look for my planner. And usually when I do get it...it doesn't have the passwords I needed.
Next plan was to use post it notes. I love those things. I consider myself Queen of post it use. They were my life blood when I taught school. I have continued to be a fan of anything associated with post it notes. The trouble with these, is that I get so many on my bulletin board, that they eventually fall off, I see a piece of paper on the floor, and I throw it away. Then some time later, I realize what I have so carefully disposed of.
Also, the heat in my "office" wears the stickiness right off those notes.
So, I began putting the post it notes up with bulletin board pins. But honestly, I have run out of space. They are layered on my bulletin board, where many have remained hidden for some time. So...what to do?
I thought of making a list and posting on my bulletin board; but then Larry and Jon would have access to all of my passwords also. I have nothing to hide, and I trust them...but sharing passwords is like sharing underwear...NOT COOL!
After much thought and deliberation, I believe I am going to go with the list idea, and hide the list somewhere where I can easily access it. But even as I write this, I know what will happen. I will hide the list so well...I'll never be able to find it again. So, back to the thinking board. Passwords are just annoying!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Crazy!
Have you ever had occasion to consider the things that drive you absolutely nuts? Well, i obviously have too much time on my hands, or I'm bored stiff...but I just have to let it all out tonight. Of course, there are things that I have no control over, like old people driving huge RVs that can't even see over the dashboard. Then they decide to change lanes...WATCH OUT! They can move from the far right, to the turning lane on the far left, and not even use a turning signal. LOVE IT!
Or how about Wal-mart "greeters" that stare at you like you are a shop lifters going in to the store. I thought they were suppose to greet you, and make you feel welcome in the store. Oh, no, no, no. They glare at you. It's especially bad when you have a sweet darling child with you. Oh the nerve, to bring kids shopping! Can you imagine (Right!)
Lots of service industry people could take a course on customer service which includes a whole chapter on how to smile at the customer. (No offense Pam. You are perfect:) But all the others, except Pam, need help. Sometimes it's like checking out with a Zombie. There is a particular girl at Wal-mart that I swear died back in October, and is still standing at the same register just moving things back and forth. No emotion, conversation, acknowledgement, or even a cough. Look for her. She is easy to spot. She never moves, and her eyes are glazed over...poor thing.
I guess the things that are the most upsetting to me are personal things: like being stood up to get the grandchildren. I waited all day to pick up two of my grandchildren to take them on a hike. Jon and I were all pumped up about it. I watched the clock until it was ten minutes to three, and we zoomed over, ran to the doorstep, knocked, and knocked, and knocked. No one answered the door. I was crushed with disappointment. This is two times in a row that we have tried to plan a little hike with them, and it's always something. This drives me more crazy than anything. I just want to be grandma. I just want to leave memories with the little ones in my life.
I'm not asking to be grandma of the year, or take the kids for a month. I just want time with them. I'm always afraid that I won't get as much time with my grandchildren as I want. Hopefully the Lord will see how much my grandchildren mean to me, and allow me lots of time on earth with them.
So please....don't drive me crazy by keeping the kids away. They are my reason for being here, for living. They are the reason I get up in the morning. The reason I keep going even when my body doesn't want to.
Yes, things drive me batty. Most of it is unimportant, as long as the old folks don't run over me. But family makes me crazy with happiness. Thank you to those in law and outlaw children who are respectful, and try so hard to make my life even better. I love you, and I appreciate you sharing your most precious children with me.
Or how about Wal-mart "greeters" that stare at you like you are a shop lifters going in to the store. I thought they were suppose to greet you, and make you feel welcome in the store. Oh, no, no, no. They glare at you. It's especially bad when you have a sweet darling child with you. Oh the nerve, to bring kids shopping! Can you imagine (Right!)
Lots of service industry people could take a course on customer service which includes a whole chapter on how to smile at the customer. (No offense Pam. You are perfect:) But all the others, except Pam, need help. Sometimes it's like checking out with a Zombie. There is a particular girl at Wal-mart that I swear died back in October, and is still standing at the same register just moving things back and forth. No emotion, conversation, acknowledgement, or even a cough. Look for her. She is easy to spot. She never moves, and her eyes are glazed over...poor thing.
I guess the things that are the most upsetting to me are personal things: like being stood up to get the grandchildren. I waited all day to pick up two of my grandchildren to take them on a hike. Jon and I were all pumped up about it. I watched the clock until it was ten minutes to three, and we zoomed over, ran to the doorstep, knocked, and knocked, and knocked. No one answered the door. I was crushed with disappointment. This is two times in a row that we have tried to plan a little hike with them, and it's always something. This drives me more crazy than anything. I just want to be grandma. I just want to leave memories with the little ones in my life.
I'm not asking to be grandma of the year, or take the kids for a month. I just want time with them. I'm always afraid that I won't get as much time with my grandchildren as I want. Hopefully the Lord will see how much my grandchildren mean to me, and allow me lots of time on earth with them.
So please....don't drive me crazy by keeping the kids away. They are my reason for being here, for living. They are the reason I get up in the morning. The reason I keep going even when my body doesn't want to.
Yes, things drive me batty. Most of it is unimportant, as long as the old folks don't run over me. But family makes me crazy with happiness. Thank you to those in law and outlaw children who are respectful, and try so hard to make my life even better. I love you, and I appreciate you sharing your most precious children with me.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
"What's for Dinner?"
Is it just me, or are women everywhere sick of hearing, "What's for dinner?" I have to fight every sarcastic bone in my body not to reply with some smart remark. I have tried a few replies like, "I don't know, what do you want?" But that doesn't work either because the person will just stand and stare at me, with puppy eyes and absolutely NO suggestions.
Did they once think that I really don't know what is for dinner! Some days I plan ahead, or I get the crock pot going, then there's no doubt. But half the time I don't know what's for dinner either. I go through a very scientific way of deciding what's for dinner. Here are my top ten ways you can decide:
10. Ask yourself if you really want dinner, or would a snack due?
9. Tell your husband what a terrible day you have had. Sometimes they take mercy on us.
8. Look in the freezer and see if there is something not covered with freezer burn.
7. Check the pantry for easy, sleazy packaged meals.
6. Attempt getting someone, anyone, to help.
5. Delay thinking about dinner as long as possible.
4. Start wishing that Fabio will show up in your kitchen holding a pot of something.
3. Give up on the wishing, and look for the easiest thing to make.
2. Think about all the starving kids in Africa.
1. Cook for those starving kids and feed your family
Now, I say the kids in Africa only because I grew up cleaning everything off my plate because of all the starving children in Africa, or was it China? Anyway, back to the subject at hand. Right now my 24 year old is staring at me like a vulture. He knows not to ask what's for dinner because he saw me writing this. Otherwise, I'm sure he would have questioned me before now. I tried asking him to cook,and he told me ,"nice try." NICE TRY!!!!!! Is that all a mother can expect after 24 years of caring for this boy? Maybe it is all in my attitude. I'm going to try and get excited about the frozen meat ( very freezer burned), the old tortillas in the refrigerator, and some ancient rice in the cupboard. This is going to be the meal of meals I can tell already. So , "What's for dinner?" It can be anything. I think I'll start replying with , "It's a surprise!" That is an honest answer, because I really don't know, and perhaps it will end up being one of my greatest creations ever. It might also end up sending my family to the bathroom immediately after eating:) Oh well, SURPRISE!
Did they once think that I really don't know what is for dinner! Some days I plan ahead, or I get the crock pot going, then there's no doubt. But half the time I don't know what's for dinner either. I go through a very scientific way of deciding what's for dinner. Here are my top ten ways you can decide:
10. Ask yourself if you really want dinner, or would a snack due?
9. Tell your husband what a terrible day you have had. Sometimes they take mercy on us.
8. Look in the freezer and see if there is something not covered with freezer burn.
7. Check the pantry for easy, sleazy packaged meals.
6. Attempt getting someone, anyone, to help.
5. Delay thinking about dinner as long as possible.
4. Start wishing that Fabio will show up in your kitchen holding a pot of something.
3. Give up on the wishing, and look for the easiest thing to make.
2. Think about all the starving kids in Africa.
1. Cook for those starving kids and feed your family
Now, I say the kids in Africa only because I grew up cleaning everything off my plate because of all the starving children in Africa, or was it China? Anyway, back to the subject at hand. Right now my 24 year old is staring at me like a vulture. He knows not to ask what's for dinner because he saw me writing this. Otherwise, I'm sure he would have questioned me before now. I tried asking him to cook,and he told me ,"nice try." NICE TRY!!!!!! Is that all a mother can expect after 24 years of caring for this boy? Maybe it is all in my attitude. I'm going to try and get excited about the frozen meat ( very freezer burned), the old tortillas in the refrigerator, and some ancient rice in the cupboard. This is going to be the meal of meals I can tell already. So , "What's for dinner?" It can be anything. I think I'll start replying with , "It's a surprise!" That is an honest answer, because I really don't know, and perhaps it will end up being one of my greatest creations ever. It might also end up sending my family to the bathroom immediately after eating:) Oh well, SURPRISE!
Friday, January 14, 2011
"Let my People Go"
I don't recall where I first heard the expression, "Let my people go." Maybe it was in the Ten Commandment movie, or in the scriptures, or in some southern slavery movie. But for some reason, that expression has been in my mind all morning.
I've contemplated just what that could mean in my life. Does it mean letting go of the people in our past? Or does it refer to present day people, or is it me crying out for some calmness and order in my life.
Over the past year, I have become too addicted to the computer. Maybe that's what this means. The computer has a hold on me, that I need to break away from. Just like in one of those horror movie's when an inanimate object springs to life, and clutches the person and eats them alive! That's it! It is the computer screaming, "Let my people go." I need to run as fast as I can away from the clutches of my two computers.
You know, I think I need to be on a computer diet, along with the food diet, exercise diet, reading diet, and diet until your butt falls off diet. I need to be put in time out, and while I'm there, could someone please put Dr. McSteamy in time out with me? That would help me stay put much longer.
Oh, and while I am punishing myself, by limiting my computer addiction...could some kind person include some chocolate and Cafe Rio for me and McSteamy?
Seriously though, there are people in my life that I never want to let go of. And there is one or two along the way, that I could place my foot in the center of their behind ,and kick them to the curb! There are very few people I dislike. Usually, they are people who have been unkind to me and to others, and to them I say, "LET MY PEOPLE GO!" Start being a caring, compassionate adult. Put others first. Stop thinking YOU are the center of the universe. Those of you who love me, and know me, know to whom this message is directed.
Ok, so to end this rambling blog I have decided to limit the number of times I check my e-mails and Facebook each day. Once in the morning, and once in the evening. The time I waste on the computer can be spent preparing to be a Nun:) What a life that would be. Wear the same clothes everyday, no makeup or hair worries, no man to please. Sounds pretty good doesn't it! Of course I am kidding. My newly found time will be spent scrapbooking, reading the scriptutres, reading for fun, and taking care of myself. And yes, that includes the work till your butt falls off diet!!!!
I've contemplated just what that could mean in my life. Does it mean letting go of the people in our past? Or does it refer to present day people, or is it me crying out for some calmness and order in my life.
Over the past year, I have become too addicted to the computer. Maybe that's what this means. The computer has a hold on me, that I need to break away from. Just like in one of those horror movie's when an inanimate object springs to life, and clutches the person and eats them alive! That's it! It is the computer screaming, "Let my people go." I need to run as fast as I can away from the clutches of my two computers.
You know, I think I need to be on a computer diet, along with the food diet, exercise diet, reading diet, and diet until your butt falls off diet. I need to be put in time out, and while I'm there, could someone please put Dr. McSteamy in time out with me? That would help me stay put much longer.
Oh, and while I am punishing myself, by limiting my computer addiction...could some kind person include some chocolate and Cafe Rio for me and McSteamy?
Seriously though, there are people in my life that I never want to let go of. And there is one or two along the way, that I could place my foot in the center of their behind ,and kick them to the curb! There are very few people I dislike. Usually, they are people who have been unkind to me and to others, and to them I say, "LET MY PEOPLE GO!" Start being a caring, compassionate adult. Put others first. Stop thinking YOU are the center of the universe. Those of you who love me, and know me, know to whom this message is directed.
Ok, so to end this rambling blog I have decided to limit the number of times I check my e-mails and Facebook each day. Once in the morning, and once in the evening. The time I waste on the computer can be spent preparing to be a Nun:) What a life that would be. Wear the same clothes everyday, no makeup or hair worries, no man to please. Sounds pretty good doesn't it! Of course I am kidding. My newly found time will be spent scrapbooking, reading the scriptutres, reading for fun, and taking care of myself. And yes, that includes the work till your butt falls off diet!!!!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Just how many calories can possibily be in a Vanilla Wafer?
Don't you just hate this time of year? Everyone is going on a diet, everyone is going to get healthy, everyone is going to get skinny, everyone is going to do these things.... but ME! It isn't that I don't have a desire to do these things. It isn't a lack of motivation or information. It's just that I haven't found a "plan" yet, that totally works for me.'''
I considered a cereal diet ( until you look at the sugars, carbs, and calories. How about a Doctor Oz drink I ventured. But I cannot, and will not drink a drink of green slim made from raw kale and collard greens. My stomach doesn't even recognize these foods until way into the afternoon.
So i decided to look for something I like, that is plain, and yet full filling ( for a treat.) I looked thoughtfully into my pantry and found lots of cans, boxes, and nicks nacks out the patty whack!
Suddenly my eyes fell upon a box of vanilla wafers. How bad could a little cookie, with no frosting be? Surely it had to be 5 calories! I carefully began to inspect the box, avoiding the product information as long as possible. I noticed the box said, Reduced Fat Vanilla Wafers.
I was feeling pretty pumped by now. I anticipated a large cereal bowl filled to the rim with the tiny little plain cookies. Then I read the dreaded label. I could eat 8 tiny boring cookies for 120 calories, and 2 grams of fat. Eight cookies...are you kidding me! The are the size of a quarter, no frosty or candy, plain as a board.
How can I stick to eight morsels a day, when in the pantry right next to them are chocolate fiber bars, chocolate chips, nuts, chips, crackers? "There must be a better way," I scream to myself. If I scream out loud my family might think I have lost it....again!
Well, I'll tell you what I am going to do. I am going to take my eight cookies for the night, and enjoy them one at a time. Maybe I'll lick the cookie, then suck on it, and chew it oh so slowly. By the time I do this 8 times, I won't be interested in that jar of Very Vanilla Frosting with chocolate chips that taste so good. OOPS, my secret is out! Happy dieting.
I considered a cereal diet ( until you look at the sugars, carbs, and calories. How about a Doctor Oz drink I ventured. But I cannot, and will not drink a drink of green slim made from raw kale and collard greens. My stomach doesn't even recognize these foods until way into the afternoon.
So i decided to look for something I like, that is plain, and yet full filling ( for a treat.) I looked thoughtfully into my pantry and found lots of cans, boxes, and nicks nacks out the patty whack!
Suddenly my eyes fell upon a box of vanilla wafers. How bad could a little cookie, with no frosting be? Surely it had to be 5 calories! I carefully began to inspect the box, avoiding the product information as long as possible. I noticed the box said, Reduced Fat Vanilla Wafers.
I was feeling pretty pumped by now. I anticipated a large cereal bowl filled to the rim with the tiny little plain cookies. Then I read the dreaded label. I could eat 8 tiny boring cookies for 120 calories, and 2 grams of fat. Eight cookies...are you kidding me! The are the size of a quarter, no frosty or candy, plain as a board.
How can I stick to eight morsels a day, when in the pantry right next to them are chocolate fiber bars, chocolate chips, nuts, chips, crackers? "There must be a better way," I scream to myself. If I scream out loud my family might think I have lost it....again!
Well, I'll tell you what I am going to do. I am going to take my eight cookies for the night, and enjoy them one at a time. Maybe I'll lick the cookie, then suck on it, and chew it oh so slowly. By the time I do this 8 times, I won't be interested in that jar of Very Vanilla Frosting with chocolate chips that taste so good. OOPS, my secret is out! Happy dieting.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
"Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus"
Years and years ago, there was an article in the New York Times that answered the question, "Is there really a Santa Claus?" In answer to the little girl's question,she was assured that yes, indeed, there is a Santa.
Thinking back over this year I am mindful of the ways our pleas for assistance have been answered. But instead of Santa, our answers have come from a loving, and kind, Father in Heaven.
In May we were blessed with our eighth grandchild, Kiley. What a sweet, special little baby she is. Nothing melts my heart as fast as when she recognizes me, and gives me big smiles and kisses. We are so thankful for her in our lives, and we know her parents, and big sister, Shelby love her very much.
We are grateful that a good doctor discovered what was making little Kiley sick, and thankful that it is something that can be treated. I feel confident that all will be well with this special baby girl.
We had the privilege of loving and holding our ninth grandchild, and then returning him to live with his Heavenly Father. Tanner was much loved, and much wanted. Perhaps he was so perfect that he didn't need to be here very long. I am grateful for the presence he was in our lives, and look forward to meeting him again one day. When I visit his tiny grave, I am reminded of what a gift life is, and how quickly it can be taken away. We are grateful Tanner's mother was protected and watched over. We are grateful for the way in which Dave handled everything in such a spiritual and thoughtful way.
Today we learned that Xander has PDD, which, with therapy, is treatable. I am so grateful for good doctors and medicine that can help us all be well. Xander is a special little boy. Right now, he is the only Stephenson boy in our family. He is a lovable and sweet tempered little boy. As he receives the therapy he needs, I know he will progress. I'm thankful for people who are trained to work with special needs children. They are angels in my book.
This year, my kidney function improved to the highest it has ever been. When I was so sick, three years ago, they told me my kidneys would never improve. But they have, and I am so grateful to enjoy improved health, and pray that heavenly Father will keep me on this earth for a long time. I want to live to hold great grandchildren, see my grand kids go on missions, and be married in the temple.
Back in May, I would not have believed that I would still have my mother here. Mom had a massive stroke. In the beginning she couldn't even lift an arm. She was unable to talk,feed herself, move her head. It was terrible. It was awful to watch her suffer, but she has hung in there and came through hell. I'm so proud of the way she has tried, and not given up. I am extremely proud of my dad, and the way he has stepped up and taken over mom's care. I know this is hard for both of them. But I am grateful to still have both my parents. Mom's birthday is on Monday, Dec. 27th. I cannot believe she has lived to see this birthday.
Matthew about tore his finger off in an accident this year. But the finger has healed, and Matt has continued to amaze us. He is one of a kind. I don't think you could find any better 10 year old boy. He is so loving and kind. I'm so proud of him and his accomplishments. He is now singing in a choir, and playing basketball.
Talia has taken to reading like a fish takes to water. She is doing so well. Talia is a very deep thinker, and a girl with her emotions on her sleeve. She was so tender and sweet at Tanner's funeral. I will never forget catching her in a moment when she was alone at the grave site with Tanner. She looked so thoughtful and angelic as she sat by the brother she never got to know. I'm proud of Talia in so many ways. On Jan. 1, 2011 Talia will be baptized.
Emily just got baptized last week on Dec. 18, 2010. She stood and sang a song with her mother. The song was in separate parts, and Emily did so great. I can remember when Emme was about 3 years old, and painfully shy. Now she sings, plays the piano, and dances in a dance group. She is amazing also. She is at the top of her class, and is also an outstanding student. Emme and I have a special relationship, and she knows how much I love her.
What can I possibly say about our Cicily? She is a sweetheart. Everyone wants to be Cicily's friend. When you are around her, you can sense the caring feelings she has for those around her. She too, has done well in school. She is a great example and loves the little ones. I'm proud of Cicily. She teaches me by example, and I know she is a great help to her mom and dad.
Nate is my farm boy. He and I love to play farm and cars when he is over. Nate is very meticulous. he lines those cars up perfectly, and is a great pretend farmer. Nate loves the dirt as much as any little boy can love anything. he plays for hours with his trucks in the dirt. When I see him in his overalls, he reminds me of my grandpa who wore overalls much of his life. Nate too is a sweet boy, and doing great in pre-school.
Shelby is definitely one of grandma's top fan club members. Shelby and I have played farm, furniture, zoo, babies, music people, witches, worker men, and many other things, people, and situations. She is so bright. She remembers everything you say or promise. There is no way to fool Shelby. She has a million questions. I get such a kick out of her, and the funny things she says from her perspective of things. Shelby and I are tight:)
I mentioned Xander earlier. He is a sweet boy, and very lovable. He looks so much like Dave did as a little boy. Xander is going wide open all the time. There just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day for him. He too likes playing cars, puzzles, and running, running, running. I swear he has one speed only...FAST! I have a feeling that Xander is going to teach all of us some more about life, and I love him for that.
Kiley, our baby, couldn't be any sweeter. She is a little angel. She loves her mommy and daddy, and Shelby can always get her to giggle and laugh. Kiley is everywhere. She is crawling and pulling herself up to everything. She has started baby food, and loves the little puffy snacks. Kiley has the most kissable neck and face. I just can't get enough loving in:)
In November, my baby, Jonathan was in a one car rollover that could have killed him. I cannot tell anyone the depth of worry and despair I felt when we heard that he had been in this accident. I know that God protected him, and heard our prayers and pleas for his safety and well-being. I wish more than anything, that Jon can be happy and feel the love that he desires. I'm proud of his progress in college. I have seen him buckle down and work for hours on end. I know God has a plan for him.
This year I was able to reconnect with many of my old friends. We also had a class reunion. It was great to see everyone. I have been able to reconnect with my oldest, and dearest, childhood friend. It has blessed my life when I needed a friend.
Speaking of friends. I am blessed with wonderful in-law children, and a daughter who continually amazes me. My boys are all good men, and work hard to provide for their families. I hope they know how pleased we are with them. And lastly, I am blessed with a good man. Larry takes good care of me, and I know he loves me. I hope I can be a better wife and companion.
Thank you to all my special friends from here to Minn. , Washington State, Texas, and beyond. You people are the cream of the crop, and you have blessed my life for years.
So for me, there is a Santa all year long. I see him in the faces of my grandchildren. In the kisses and hugs from my parents. From the concerned phone calls from Mark each day. I see Santa in Facebook, and the friends I have gained there. In the thoughtful ways in which Pam takes care of me, and checks on me. Santa is in the example I see of Rachel...going to school full time, and being a great full time mother. I don't see how she gets so much done in a day!
When I hear compliments about Dave, Tab, Jon, Justin, Mark, Pam, Rachel, and Larry I am so proud of my family. Each and every one of them is unique and important to this family. So yes indeed, there is a Santa. Thank you Lord for watching over me and those I love.
Merry Christmas to all and Happy Holidays
Thinking back over this year I am mindful of the ways our pleas for assistance have been answered. But instead of Santa, our answers have come from a loving, and kind, Father in Heaven.
In May we were blessed with our eighth grandchild, Kiley. What a sweet, special little baby she is. Nothing melts my heart as fast as when she recognizes me, and gives me big smiles and kisses. We are so thankful for her in our lives, and we know her parents, and big sister, Shelby love her very much.
We are grateful that a good doctor discovered what was making little Kiley sick, and thankful that it is something that can be treated. I feel confident that all will be well with this special baby girl.
We had the privilege of loving and holding our ninth grandchild, and then returning him to live with his Heavenly Father. Tanner was much loved, and much wanted. Perhaps he was so perfect that he didn't need to be here very long. I am grateful for the presence he was in our lives, and look forward to meeting him again one day. When I visit his tiny grave, I am reminded of what a gift life is, and how quickly it can be taken away. We are grateful Tanner's mother was protected and watched over. We are grateful for the way in which Dave handled everything in such a spiritual and thoughtful way.
Today we learned that Xander has PDD, which, with therapy, is treatable. I am so grateful for good doctors and medicine that can help us all be well. Xander is a special little boy. Right now, he is the only Stephenson boy in our family. He is a lovable and sweet tempered little boy. As he receives the therapy he needs, I know he will progress. I'm thankful for people who are trained to work with special needs children. They are angels in my book.
This year, my kidney function improved to the highest it has ever been. When I was so sick, three years ago, they told me my kidneys would never improve. But they have, and I am so grateful to enjoy improved health, and pray that heavenly Father will keep me on this earth for a long time. I want to live to hold great grandchildren, see my grand kids go on missions, and be married in the temple.
Back in May, I would not have believed that I would still have my mother here. Mom had a massive stroke. In the beginning she couldn't even lift an arm. She was unable to talk,feed herself, move her head. It was terrible. It was awful to watch her suffer, but she has hung in there and came through hell. I'm so proud of the way she has tried, and not given up. I am extremely proud of my dad, and the way he has stepped up and taken over mom's care. I know this is hard for both of them. But I am grateful to still have both my parents. Mom's birthday is on Monday, Dec. 27th. I cannot believe she has lived to see this birthday.
Matthew about tore his finger off in an accident this year. But the finger has healed, and Matt has continued to amaze us. He is one of a kind. I don't think you could find any better 10 year old boy. He is so loving and kind. I'm so proud of him and his accomplishments. He is now singing in a choir, and playing basketball.
Talia has taken to reading like a fish takes to water. She is doing so well. Talia is a very deep thinker, and a girl with her emotions on her sleeve. She was so tender and sweet at Tanner's funeral. I will never forget catching her in a moment when she was alone at the grave site with Tanner. She looked so thoughtful and angelic as she sat by the brother she never got to know. I'm proud of Talia in so many ways. On Jan. 1, 2011 Talia will be baptized.
Emily just got baptized last week on Dec. 18, 2010. She stood and sang a song with her mother. The song was in separate parts, and Emily did so great. I can remember when Emme was about 3 years old, and painfully shy. Now she sings, plays the piano, and dances in a dance group. She is amazing also. She is at the top of her class, and is also an outstanding student. Emme and I have a special relationship, and she knows how much I love her.
What can I possibly say about our Cicily? She is a sweetheart. Everyone wants to be Cicily's friend. When you are around her, you can sense the caring feelings she has for those around her. She too, has done well in school. She is a great example and loves the little ones. I'm proud of Cicily. She teaches me by example, and I know she is a great help to her mom and dad.
Nate is my farm boy. He and I love to play farm and cars when he is over. Nate is very meticulous. he lines those cars up perfectly, and is a great pretend farmer. Nate loves the dirt as much as any little boy can love anything. he plays for hours with his trucks in the dirt. When I see him in his overalls, he reminds me of my grandpa who wore overalls much of his life. Nate too is a sweet boy, and doing great in pre-school.
Shelby is definitely one of grandma's top fan club members. Shelby and I have played farm, furniture, zoo, babies, music people, witches, worker men, and many other things, people, and situations. She is so bright. She remembers everything you say or promise. There is no way to fool Shelby. She has a million questions. I get such a kick out of her, and the funny things she says from her perspective of things. Shelby and I are tight:)
I mentioned Xander earlier. He is a sweet boy, and very lovable. He looks so much like Dave did as a little boy. Xander is going wide open all the time. There just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day for him. He too likes playing cars, puzzles, and running, running, running. I swear he has one speed only...FAST! I have a feeling that Xander is going to teach all of us some more about life, and I love him for that.
Kiley, our baby, couldn't be any sweeter. She is a little angel. She loves her mommy and daddy, and Shelby can always get her to giggle and laugh. Kiley is everywhere. She is crawling and pulling herself up to everything. She has started baby food, and loves the little puffy snacks. Kiley has the most kissable neck and face. I just can't get enough loving in:)
In November, my baby, Jonathan was in a one car rollover that could have killed him. I cannot tell anyone the depth of worry and despair I felt when we heard that he had been in this accident. I know that God protected him, and heard our prayers and pleas for his safety and well-being. I wish more than anything, that Jon can be happy and feel the love that he desires. I'm proud of his progress in college. I have seen him buckle down and work for hours on end. I know God has a plan for him.
This year I was able to reconnect with many of my old friends. We also had a class reunion. It was great to see everyone. I have been able to reconnect with my oldest, and dearest, childhood friend. It has blessed my life when I needed a friend.
Speaking of friends. I am blessed with wonderful in-law children, and a daughter who continually amazes me. My boys are all good men, and work hard to provide for their families. I hope they know how pleased we are with them. And lastly, I am blessed with a good man. Larry takes good care of me, and I know he loves me. I hope I can be a better wife and companion.
Thank you to all my special friends from here to Minn. , Washington State, Texas, and beyond. You people are the cream of the crop, and you have blessed my life for years.
So for me, there is a Santa all year long. I see him in the faces of my grandchildren. In the kisses and hugs from my parents. From the concerned phone calls from Mark each day. I see Santa in Facebook, and the friends I have gained there. In the thoughtful ways in which Pam takes care of me, and checks on me. Santa is in the example I see of Rachel...going to school full time, and being a great full time mother. I don't see how she gets so much done in a day!
When I hear compliments about Dave, Tab, Jon, Justin, Mark, Pam, Rachel, and Larry I am so proud of my family. Each and every one of them is unique and important to this family. So yes indeed, there is a Santa. Thank you Lord for watching over me and those I love.
Merry Christmas to all and Happy Holidays
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