Friday, December 26, 2008

Happy 25th Anniversary, Debbie & Craig!!!

Well I'm an hour shy of their 25th, but how well I remember the day! Two days after Christmas and we were up at dawn driving to the LA temple. Debbie actually slept the whole way!!!

Tonight, at Fuddrucker's, I found the family sitting in a different spot than the usual one we occupy. After getting Heather seated I looked up at the nearby booth, as a matter of habit more than anything.

My instant reaction was that I was looking at Debbie, but no, Debbie is in Oregon, with all kinds of snow and a family Christmas of her own... still I couldn't believe how much this woman looked like Debbie and I started to comment to Poppy about the resemblance when I finally looked at the other person in the booth - yep, it was Craig.

BUT...Debbie and I talked for an hour last night - pretty selfish as it was Christmas day. The long and short of it is... Debbie and Craig are here for the night ~ and tomorrow (their 25th anniversary) they are driving to Santa Barbara to see Landon who celebrated Christmas with a fellow Coast Guardian who was "on duty" as well.

KFC was their Christmas feast - Landon really felt alone all day. So "the cruise" Craig & Debbie were planning for their 25th, took a more practical turn and we will get to see them again on Monday when they return this way, prior to flying home again on Tuesday - in time for New Year's Eve.

Fuddrucker's (most Friday evenings) yields many happy memories as all who gather w/us from time to time will surely agree. xoxoxo

T'was the day after Christmas...

T'was the day after Christmas when all though the house,
Poppy was scouting around like a mouse.
Clutter and Christmas lights, treats and 'what have you,'
Leftover food and four gifts undelivered, too...

Christmas has come and left us quite grateful,
The spiritual gifts have left us most faithful;
The hustle and bustle which was found round each home,
Reminds us the wise men were thankful to roam,

In search of the Christ child, of whom at His birth,
Gave joy to all people all over the earth.
And Grammy, Poppy and Sydney feel glee,
That a New Year is coming for you and for me!

HAPPY NEW YEAR ~ 2009 ~ and may you be ever blessed.

xo

Sunday, December 21, 2008

The shortest day of the year!!

Imagine being born on the shortest day of the year. Actually it is also the first day of winter and this year it appears that many families are being hit with snow, freezing rain, etc. We had a rather mild and sunny day - custom made for an old lady's birthday.

I've heard there is still plenty of snow in the desert, as well as in Las Vegas proper. And in Salem, OR. they had a complete snow week - no school - and church was canceled today!! Now that is quite an event!!

Here in sunny southern CA we enjoyed Denise's lasagna w/Theresa's cheesy bread. We had so much dessert I will gain another 5 lbs this year!! We missed the Bingham family's annual Christmas party, but have started a new tradition this year. The meal was simple, but delicious and the company was mighty fine.

I love family get togethers, wherever they may be! I'm sending special thanks and Christmas greetings to each and every one of you. I am going to love using my new Sony 300DSLR, a gift from Duncan that tickles me so much!! Phanfare here I come!! xo

Friday, December 19, 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ~ Taylor & Riley!!!

Today was Riley and Taylor's birthdays. I think Riley is the oldest by at least 10 minutes!


It has been 24 years since Debbie and Craig deposited the two little bundles right upon the same leather couch that is still standing in the exact same place in our home. They looked just like plucked chickens, as Debbie immediately freed them from their clothes & blankets so we could see their fingers and toes.


I might add that all were moving about at the same time along with a sudden urge to eat - and NOW. Debbie, trying to nurse both boys, had quite a project on her hands - those little boys were so tiny, but they sure made a lot of noise!!!


A lot of Christmases have passed since they were newborns. Our first grandchildren - we had no idea how quickly time would fly by and how many more grandchildren would follow them down through the years.


This year we are anxiously awaiting the birth of another child. Margaret, is due to arrive the beginning of February and will be our 1st GREAT grandchild. Thanks be to Riley and Megan for this fortunate event! This is really something to fully appreciate and anticipate; how lucky can we be??!


This has been a really decent year. We have spent time with every grandchild save one... Webb's son Ryan whom we hope to spend some time with soon.


We have seen our 1st granddaughter, Megan, in her apartment in Utah. What a beautiful girl she is. We have also traveled to Virginia to see the Baker eight; Gregory, II, Tory, CJB (Christopher) Aleks, Gwen, Jon, Natey & Isabelle, all wonderful to behold.

We have Landon in the Coast Guard in CA and a very special young woman from Salem, OR in his life. Taylor married Katie this year and we had fun with them this summer. Riley and Megan were on hand for that as well!


We saw Draper & Collin a couple of times this year and then we have all the locals. Connor, simply the best, Kate, the horse person and then there's Sean, Trevor, Maya and Rachel living nearby so we can share Friday evenings at Fuddruckers several times a month at least. Not to be forgotten are the 3 little Aussie's; Oliver, Ben and Charlotte who are - where else - but in Brisbane, Australia right now.


Lots of wonderful memories over the years and to finish things up Debbie and Craig (The Binghams) are celebrating their 25th anniversary on Dec 27 of this year. They deserve a round of applause for the fine job they have done this past quarter century!!


I (once again) turn older than dirt in a couple of days and I'm proud to share this birth month with our first 3 grandsons. Life doesn't get any sweeter than this... Merry Christmas - may the joy of the Savior's birth be with each of you and remain throughout the coming year. xo

Thursday, December 11, 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Landon!!

It is exactly TWO weeks until Christmas Day. I should be panicky with all the things left to be done. But this year it seems as if it's okay if nothing gets done; at least until the last minute, anyway.

I/we have had visits with people who love us ~ 'worts' and all. I might add that Tory would relate on some level since she has regained her footing with Harry Potter following a detour through the (ahem) Twilight series of late.

I have several books just awaiting my perusal... once the holidays are over and the rains hopefully arrive. Only one book is of substance; but I'll enjoy all with equal relish I do believe.

Duncan (poppy) recently renewed a very long time acquaintance with his grammar school principal. It has been very meaningful for both parties and we quickly emptied a box of delicious McIntrye chocolates that Duncan received in the mail the other day.

It is wonderful that such an occasion could bring such personal joy. We also received a Christmas card from a fellow classmate - Ramsey high school, class of '58... which brought a bit of warmth to the season this year, as well.

Our tree is up - amazingly - and there are lights all about the house. Sydney faithfully plugs most of them in each night - her contribution, so far, to the holidays quickly approaching.

For those of you we are still hoping we'll see, before 2009 appears, our doors are open and the house warmly awaits your appearance any time at all... We send our love to each of you with hopes that this holiday season with family will soon be complete. Enjoy the next 14 days!! xo

Thursday, November 27, 2008

HAPPY THANKSGIVING ~ 2008



This year we are celebrating Thanksgiving with the Baker family in their new home in Virginia. I have trouble finding people sometimes since the house is so huge!

The Bakers have invited Theresa's sister, Cindy and husband Brian + their son whose name totally slips my mind. (Maybe that is because I have trouble keeping the eight around here straight!!) You (Theresa & Kevin) will be close at mind...

The kitchen has fragrant aromas and Cathleen has been cooking all day. What wonderful treats lie in store for us - yum, yum, yum.

We hope you are enjoying a wonderful day of thanksgiving wherever you are and however you celebrate it... Much love to one and all!! xoxoxo

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Early THANKSGIVING greetings!!

In 2 days we'll be off to Virginia to vist our south easternly CHERRY BLOSSOM family. We are SO excited and look forward to a whole week of fun and games with all our grandchildren.

We want to wish you a very happy Thanksgiving and we pray that all will be well for everyone while we are away.

I know I am so thankful for this past year that has allowed us to visit with all of our family except Webster. Next year we'll have to force ourselves to visit Maui (sigh) and Webb.

You, and yours, are in our prayers always.

xoxoxo

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Something's burning . . . CA - Happy 18th Birthday MEGAN!!



Not that Megan ever reads our blogs, but I do want her to know we are thinking about her and have a card on it's way. Turning 18 is monumental and I hope it is the beginning of better times (as an adult) for 'our Meg' and family!!

Since I've been home from Oregon we have had hot, hot, HOT weather and those horrible Santa Ana winds! CA has been ablaze - particularly in the area where the Binghams used to live. Let's all hope the winds die down soon and that the worst is almost over.

Tomorrow night I'm going to see Courtney Jones appear at the Genghis Khan in LA, with Andrea & Landon. Then I will have a sleepover with Andrea and the kids. That's if the freeways are open and the show is going on!

Countdown 5 days until we are IN the Bakers new home. What a joy!! In the meantime there is much to do to get ready for our trip.

Have a wonderful week!! xo

Friday, November 14, 2008

From Oregon to Virginia in TEN days...



Last week I was enjoying the cool rainy days with Debbie, Craig, Collin and Dray, in Oregon. What a beautiful place to be in the fall, even with all of the drizzly rainy weather! Everyone walks around without umbrellas; wearing neat scarves, caps and the traditional clothing I just love.

There are so many neat places to shop around Salem and in Portland as well! Staying with the Bingham's is one laugh after another. They certainly know how to enjoy life to the maximum - even if it's just having a couple of gals hanging around or Draper making cinnamon rolls!! Slater, the dog, brings his own kind of joy as well. Thanks to Craig for making this wonderful birthday gift for Debbie, happen!

Next Friday we are off to spend a week with Cathleen, Greg & 8 delightful grandchildren ranging in age from 2-19!! Gregory,II, Tory, Christopher, Aleks, Gwen, Jonathan, Nathaniel & little Izzie, the queen. We always remember baby Matthew who would now be 4 years of age.



It will be exciting to be there during the pre- trim the tree- time and to pick up Gregory from his college dorm. Where has the last year gone - I can't imagine. We will be celebrating Thanksgiving dinner with all of them in their beautiful new home. How exciting is that???

I'll be seeing Landon Bingham on Monday evening when Andrea, he and I attend a concert featuring his girlfriend Courtney Jones in LA. I haven't seen Landon since he joined the Coast Guard, but I can sure say he is looking mighty handsome in uniform.



I'm looking forward to a sleepover with Oliver, Ben & Charlotte - even though they may not even know I am there!!

Hope you all have a great weekend!! xoxoxo

Monday, October 27, 2008

Today we were 'sign wavers' for YES on PROP 8



Today we spent a couple of hours as sign wavers along El Toro Rd and Jeronimo. Doing this makes for very interesting and mostly pleasurable experiences. There are a lot of supporters, along with an occasional abrupt gesture, but being with other Saints makes it pretty easy to do.

Most of all it helps us do something worthwhile - a lot like working in the local food pantry - rather than sitting at home, watching and waiting for the upcoming election.

We may not be running marathons like Andrea, but it is good, healthy exercise and as I mentioned before, the company is great!!

Sure hope you are enjoying your week as well!

Friday, October 24, 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAYS ~ Christopher, Gwen, baby Matthew & Kate!!!

Now I have not been very consistent with this blog thing, but I haven't been very consistent about anything else this month either. I hope everyone had a wonderful birthday and I thank those of you who have posted photos of those very special days.

I have tried to be sure "we" celebrate all the local grandkids birthdays with them - at least during their month. Kate, however, we slipped up on and for that I have big regrets. Someone please tell Kate how much we love her, even now that she is eleven years of age. As for the two VA birthdays - we sure wish we could have been with you, too!!

Duncan-dad-poppy and I had a wonderful time at our 50th high school reunion. It was a "blast, from the past" and everyone was out there strolling the night away. The joy of this reunion was not the flashes in the pan, but rather the solid class of '58(ers) celebrating life in the most positive way we can!



I know I enjoyed watching many members of our class coming together in the most marvelous ways. When it is your turn for a 50th I hope you'll be on hand.

As for OLD friends - well I spent 9 days in NJ with two of them. I haven't laughed so much since the last time I was there. Treasure those "oldies" - they are to be counted among the goldies for sure.

Coming soon... Unc Steve turns the big 6-0 and Debbie hits birthday #44!! They are to be followed by Gregory,II, Denise, Sean,'our'Meg and then Heather.

Can anyone believe Thanksgiving is just around the corner??? Happy Halloween!

Monday, October 6, 2008

It's been fifty years since we graduated from RAMSEY high school



Wednesday evening we fly back to NJ for our 50th reunion - class of '58!! I'm still trying to figure out where 50 years went so fast!!! There are a few activities planned including a football game Saturday afternoon. Duncan/dad/poppy has his 1958 RHS football jacket out of mothballs and it 'almost' fits...

He returns home on Sunday evening and I will stay on in NJ until the 21st, with Carol - my very dear old friend...

Margaret (as in Uncle Steve) will be here in CA while I am away. I hope to see her when I return.

CONGRATULATIONS are in order. Landon is graduating from the Coast Guard basic training in Cape May, NJ this Friday morning and Debbie says he sounds wonderful and all has gone well for him. Debbie and Craig will be at his graduation, having already made a brief visit to Greg, Cathleen and the family in their new home in VA. Lanny will be stationed on a ship in Santa Barbara, CA so I hope we'll see him before too long!

Welcome back, Theresa! You have been very much missed! I hear you will be going to NYC with Andrea and the kids, for her participation in the NYC marathon on Nov. 1st.

This coming weekend Andrea will be hiking on the North and South rims of the Grand Canyon - a brief 2 day, 52 mile journey. Imagine that!!

Soon we enter the holiday season and will be visiting the VA Bakers aka as "the cherry blossoms" for Thanksgiving in their new home.

Lots of birthdays coming up, too!! Christopher, Gwen, Nate, Matthew & Kate. with Debbie, Unc, Gregory II, Denise, Sean, Megan and Heather coming right behind. Happy Birthday, one and all!!!

We'll be seeing you when we see you!! Say a little prayer for good flying, driving, weather and times... while we are away!

Muchl much love to each and every one of you!! xoxoxo

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

HAPPY 36TH ANNIVERSARY to us all!



Today we celebrated being married and a huge mixed up and blended family for 36 years! That is a very long time!

We feel so fortunate to have 25 grandchildren, plus our 1st great granddaughter on the way...

We have been married almost 1/2 my life and I can't even remember a time before SYDNEY!

We feel so blessed in all the many ways that count.

Happy Anniversary, Duncan and all of you eight wonderful sons and daughters... plus all the wonderful additions to this family now!!



xoxoxo

Friday, September 12, 2008

Remembering 9/11 doubly... GOD BLESS AMERICA

Yesterday was the 7th anniversary of 9/11/01, which sticks largely in our minds as the before and after of America's indelible reality check about the safety of this country and the freedom we all hold so dear. May we never let these events fade from our memory. Also, may the personal stories of those who gave their lives in sacrifice of this freedom never be forgotten, either.

Six years ago yesterday, on the first anniversary of 9/11, our sister, daughter and friend, Debbie Bingham, was sitting in a comfortable chair being injected with a rather cuttine edge mono-clonal antibody called Rituxan, dripping into her body to kill the terrible cancer that was attacking her bone marrow and spline.

In both cases there were individual challenges going on and in very different ways. I think it consists of fighting spirits, and faith in God, in both so very different occasions, that speaks of the blessings He has endowed upon those of his children who continue their valiant fights.

Our country is not the same - never will be - and we Americans have the scars to prove it.

Our Debbie is not the same either - and never will be. May God continue to bless her and may HE bless all of us who enjoy the freedom to live in the most wonderful land on earth.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Happy Birthday, Theresa . . . Kevin & Nathaniel on the 17th

By the time I send this along it should be just about August 14th! We hope you have a great day, Theresa!!

I hope we can all gather on Sunday, August 31st, to celebrate the August birthdays!!

Kevin, we'll be in Utah, but hope your day is full of whatever pleasures you can conjur up.

Nathaniel, if I am correct you are 6 years old this year!! Wow!! We hope you have a very special and happy day!

Ryan (Webb's son) also has a birthday this week, too.

AND... let's not forget Dunc, Jr. who follows up at the end of the month.

Happy birthdays one and all!!!

xoxoxo

Thursday, August 7, 2008

CAMERA SHY?!?!?

I am thinking it is funny that the (Kevin) Taylor family is so shy . . . at what age does this predicament begin? And when... exactly... does it end?

Having spent some quality time with the (Chris) Taylor family members I realize it has not hit them yet. They are very good at posing for the cameras that are ever in their way!!

Andrea has several types running and takes some of the loveliest photos ever.

The (Greg) Baker family almost always has some great shots, too, and mostly sunny faces clowning around at the time.

Then take the (Craig) Bingham family and the entire family is photo shy, except perhaps for the dog...

SO, when is it, that folks become so camera shy?

Any thoughts about this, anyone???

xoxoxo

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CATHLEEN!!!

This blog is for you . . .

Wherever you are - hiding in a box, a closet, a huge cubby or that fantastic new kitchen of yours - we hope you have a wonderful birthday all day long!!

I hope your girls/guys are able to make you a wonderful birthday cake and that you'll enjoy this year beginning almost right away!

I'm also happy to hear your parents will be living in Pennsylvania. Grandparents on the east coast sounds pretty grand to me!

Your gift is in my car and will be on it's way as soon as I find your new address...

Have a wonderful day. We all love and miss you so very much!! J.

xoxoxo

Sunday, August 3, 2008

A NEW MONTH!! Happy Birthday, Draper...

We will be celebrating lots of birthdays this month ~ perhaps celebrating isn't the right word, however.

July flew by with lots of family around and visiting so we have been kept very busy and away from the computers quite a bit.

So much has happened I'm sure I'll forget something or someone, but here goes!

The Binghams' sent Dray along before their drive to Carlsbad for their annual week of camping. This has become a routine no one wishes to miss ... so Riley & Megan flew out and stayed three nights at the campsite, too. Four Bingham guys out of five wasn't too bad, right?

Megan, 3-4 months pregnant, isn't showing at all, YET! We hope to learn the sex of this baby "Schming" while we are in Utah later this month!

Landon finally got his call into the Coast Guard and enters basic training in Cape May, NJ, on August 19th! "Way to go, Landon!"

Collin finished his 1st year of college - and made nice with girl/pal Breanna while in CA. He'll be off on a mission next April when he turns nineteen!

Kate and Draper had a great time together at Carlsbad. I guess having the whole outdoors to "play" in kept them very busy and occupied. Kate and Dray are definitely growing UP!!!

Connor saw the "Dark Knight" while in Carlsbad and offered to tell me all about it. Thanks, Connor, but I sat through the whole 2 1/2 hours myself!!

Greg & Cathleen disappeared from all blogs as they bought and sold their home(s) and had to move in 2 weeks. Ever done something like this with 8 kids?! YIKES!!! We hope they have survived this move...

Sydney got a "new do" and looks much better with her hair short and in a bob.

Andrea and their three came to visit for 3 weeks (excluding weekends) and we have done the OC Fair ~ Seth and their four joined us for the afternoon ~ and also the Ringling Bros/Barnum and Bailey Circus in one week.

It is always nice to have the young ones around and these kiddies are no exception!

Andrea is running in the NYC Marathon on Nov 2nd.

Poppy is surviving pretty well, all things condidered. I only wish we had the VA Bakers around, too!

As I said it has been a busy time and hopefully August will settle down a little bit for those of you in the 'throes' of the BIG move.

We'll be in Park City Utah from Aug 15th - 27th - wish Tory could be there then!!

Also heard that the Cildermans(Cathleen's mom & dad) are moving to Pennsylvania immediately, too!! Great news for Cath, Greg & family!! Lots of room for visiting grandparents who will be quite close by!

Hello to everyone . . . much love, too!! xoxoxo Grammy

Monday, July 7, 2008

What is "MOTHERHOOD" all about?

As Tory responded to how she would like to be remembered I felt some of the same things she had been feeling over a period of time.

MOTHERHOOD is the most underpaid, under appreciated 24/7 job I can possibly imagine.

Then why are so many mothers willing to stay at home, changing diapers, cleaning up messes constantly, having no real "break" time (period) and/or losing sight of themselves as "women" in any worldly sense, for years on end.

Did I mention how thankless it can be when the child reaches their teen years, rebel, decline to accept any of their parents "teachings" or values and keep their moms up many nights, worrying and stressing over the smallest of transgressions?

Women, having been given God's greatest blessing - the ability to carry and bear life - are the mothers who soon learn that parenting their child(ren) is the most positive reinforcement they can bring into the lives of these miracles of birth.

It is the birthright of a woman, to become the first and best teacher a child will ever have. By their EXAMPLE and loving care; good upstanding citizens are formed.

Tory, my dear granddaughter is finding this out - from her mother, of course.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

GONE FISHING . . .

Okay - so "How you want to be remembered?"

"What does CHARACTER mean?"

And now "gone fishing" have in common.

A sole response - from that HAPPY man who is also my son - and complete silence from everyone else!

My happy son thinks I'm a bit looney tunes - or at the very least desperate for attention...

So perhaps I am.

Daughters-in-law - "hello, where are you?!?!

Grandchildren - I awaiting something that tells me you haven't gone to bed for the entire summer - okay???!!!

If this doesn't work I guess I'll just have to "go fishing" like all the rest...

XOXOXO

My last post went over like a lead balloon...

Soooo... let's try CHARACTER, okay?

Now having strong, courageous, impeccable character is some thing we'd all pretty much desire to have. It's also something no one is going to "brag" about, that's for sure!

So I'm going to talking about a real character we can discuss freely... like the guy in church that blurts out the funniest (but most inappropriate) things during testimony meeting.

Now HE is a real CHARACTER!

And while I hate to mention this following that (ummm) characterization, I think the Baker brothers can be major characters in their own rights.

Since Webb doesn't blog, let's move right on to Greg. Greg has a style of writing - and in real time he has a way of thinking and speaking - that is so unique, I would designate him as one funny character. Even when he's SERIOUS he "sometimes" makes me laugh.

(Right, Gregory?)

AND... that goatee ~ shall I say more?!!

Can you think of others for whom living their lives their own way might make them be considered a character in their own right?

I honestly think having character (you do, Greg) and being a character are often one and the same thing! Three cheers for you!!

Now anyone else out there you'd like to nominate, do you suppose?

Friday, June 27, 2008

How do YOU want to be remembered?

I recently read a published article that asked this question.

Since I have been reviewing copious writings in the form of letters, journals and unpublished short stories, belonging to my family as far back as my great grandfather, an artist and author, I have realized that this is something worth discussing, through my blog.

How do you wish to be remembered - and why? Do you wish to leave a legacy for children and grandchildren ~ or ~ to make a statement to the world at large?

If you are concerned about the impression you leave with others, this is a thought for you.

"Don't worry about your reputation. Reputation is based on opinion ~ how others judge you based on their ideals, prejudices and self-esteem."

Worry more about your CHARACTER... and that's a whole other subject.

SO, please, share your thoughts with me - how do you wish, hope, yearn to be remembered, and by whom.

My response will undoubtedly be related to my posterity - that's all I'll say for now.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL OF YOU DADS!!!

Tomorrow is ANOTHER Sunday ~ coming up on us!!

It is the day we pay honor and tribute to our DADS, if they are still living, and a family get together day for the Taylor~Baker~Bingham families.

We look forward to having 3 of the CA Taylor/sons/dads for a roast lamb dinner. The dads in our family are AWESOME in every way!!

Don't ever kid yourself - Poppy loves his kids & grandkids; he enjoys having them around to help him celebrate being a GRAND granddad.

To those of you who took the time to send him a card - (and/or Target gift cards) - BLESS your hearts. He thanks each of you when he shops at Target for all of his "essentials..." just in case you didn't know.

Moms get ready to cook for and spoil your men! Happy Father's Day to all.

Monday, June 9, 2008

I am an ESFP person!

If you really want to know what that means you'll have to go to Greg's blog to find out.

It should be sufficient to say that I am a "people" person who LOVES to talk!! Now who among you will be surprised to hear that?

I love people, excitement, telling stories (even though no one wants to listen) and having FUN!!!

I tend to THINK and TALK in a spider-web approach.

Bottom line - I'm happiest when I am spinning incoherently along ... covering the span of my conversation with impulsive pieces of information which I somehow manage to convey - eventually!

WOW... I think it's time to shut up...

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

TORY IS SEVENTEEN!!! AMAZING!!!

If anyone had told me 17 years ago that Tory was going to grow up so quickly, I wouldn't have believed them. I have seen other little blonds toddling around the house since she once did - and a brunette, too!

Tory at 18 months would bring me her puzzles to put together with her. I was allowed to hold the board while she quickly assembled the pieces. I remember being amazed at her fine motor skills!

Anyone acquainted with Tory will tell you she has a very delicate way about her and those skills are still very much in place.

Tory, you are a very special granddaughter and we each love you very much!!

xoxoxo Grammy, Poppy & Sydney, too...

Friday, May 30, 2008

It's Friday again already . . .

I'm not sure what "they" do with the time. Maybe someone sneaks in, when I'm not looking, and turns all of the clocks ahead.

At least this has to be the quickest week EVER!

And since this weekend will begin the first week of June, I am reminded that I have only 5 months to finish all of my 2008 Christmas shopping!

You watch and see how fast that time flies by.

And speaking of Christmas; do you think maybe we can "sort of" let this one go by?

Just hop into 2009 after blinking our eyes several times.

What do you think?

Monday, May 26, 2008

MEMORIAL DAY ~ 2008 ~ GOD BLESS YOU ALL...

As this is an election year may I first take this moment to thank all the families of the men and women serving in the Armed Forces ~ this day and in the past ~ for the many sacrifices that are made each and every day of the year. To those in all branches of the military - GOD BLESS YOU and THANK YOU, FOR YOUR WILLINGNESS TO PUT YOUR LIVES ON THE LINE FOR EACH OF US.

In this democracy in which we live; may we always have AMERICANS willing to do whatever it takes to keep our country safe and FREE.

It is our GOD given right and obligation to vote this year, for the continuing right to be able to live in a country that is free from dictatorship and in the interest of lessening government control. VOTE your conscience - do your part - so that Memorial Day won't (one day) be in vain...

Sundays are FAMILY days . . .

It was really nice to have the CA/Taylors' part of this clan - w/ Heather & Nicole Ronzone, too - gathered to meet Taylor's new wife, Katie.

I think Katie held her own very well, sitting at the head of the table, while Duncan (dad) put her through his "rank and file" English briefing. It's not "me and her," first of all . . . and you know how it goes.

Poppy's long term memory is shot as he proclaimed the Bingham boys - once thought to be fine as long as they were outside - as pretty darn near angelical ... NOW!!!

We were sorry not to be able to see Cathleen, but I truly think she had all she could do to keep up with all the activities with her family! Surely you had a good time, even though you are probably totally wiped on Monday!

I hope everyone has a restful Memorial Day and we'll see you whenever you are ready to face the drive(s) again! Remember Father's Day is coming and hope you can, too...

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Can you believe this weather?!!

I don't think it got above 60* today and last Friday it was almost 100* ~

I think the newlyweds arrived in CA today ~ or sometime this past week. What a bummer this weather is for them!! Staying at the beach!

Cathleen is leaving VA in the morning and I hope she brings some sunshine and warmer weather along with her.

She is committed to two days of graduations so maybe I should take that back! Cooler weather will be just fine.

What do you bet she barely gets any sleep while she is here. All of her sisters and brothers will be gathering and it's the first time she's seen her dad since his chemotherapy treatments.

There will be much to celebrate and I'm sure her mom is going to be in 7th heaven!!

Have a ball, Cathleen, and hang in there at home with the CB's, Greg!! xo

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

What a difference clean windows can make...

I noticed it right away.

Everything inside the house looks a bit more grimy than usual.

Which I suppose is OKAY since the windows are one of our more recent purchases.

The thing I don't like about them is the insects that having them cleaned must have dislodged.

This morning, for instance, a HUGE black spider crawled out beneath the covers on MY side of the bed, as I was making it...

Did I mention that spring cleaning is now the order of the day?

I don't know where the darned thing went, it moved so fast, but the two of us can NOT find peace and harmony in the same room, much less the same bed!

Just another day in the senior Taylors' household!! xo

Monday, May 19, 2008

Presenting the newlyweds this Sunday . . .

Having been fully reminded by daughter, Debbie, that son, Taylor, and Katie would be honeymooning in San Clemente, CA, BUT to expect NO visits or calls from them, I was very pleasantly surprised to receive an email from Taylor requesting visitation privileges this coming Sunday.

Taylor & Katie have obviously other thoughts and ideas about visiting and frankly I think Taylor is anxious to introduce his Katie to the CA branch of the Taylor-Baker clan.

Since we have confused things by being sealed amongst each other, the "family" bonds are closer than most blended families...

I, of course, am thrilled with this opportunity and I'm only hoping that everyone who can will come meet the new bride and celebrate their marriage!! xo

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Fun with Denise and Andrea...

Andrea decided to come out and spent time with Denise and Seth at the beach today. They came to our house to get that sand out of bathing suits and have a bite to eat.

Chris is in France at the Cannes Film festival, successfully plugging his movie, "Point Break." (Part 2)

There has been a lot of ($$$) interest in it - so Chris should be very happy.

Andrea is home with the 3 kids - home is in LA in large, but sheltered house.

This scares her to pieces and since the kids have to go to school, she has invited people to come stay the night with her. She's booked up until Chris returns on Thursday!

The last time they left the house for a weekend it was robbed . . . no wonder she is scared.

Have a great week, everyone!! xo

Saturday, May 17, 2008

Happy Birthday, Mother . . .

Although she can't read this I feel the need to remember her all the same. It is time for me to do her work and I'm making a promise to do this ASAP.

The day of her passing is June 1st - so maybe I can get it done by then...

Thanks, Greg, for remembering some of the grandchildren things about your very fine grandmother. Duncan remembered that she left you each a small monetary gift when she passed away and she has left an indelible impression on him, too...

I remember her sitting for hours with Sydney - reading, reading and reading. Sydney sure pushed all of her buttons, but that's a Taylor for you - all the way!!

We have been discussing how much we miss her and what a wonderful "mother/ grandmother-in-law" she always was.

Duncan/dad remarked that she took great care of us and good home cooked meals were an every day occurrence when she was living with us.

So, Happy Birthday, MOTHER, we'll be with you again someday. xoxoxo

Friday, May 16, 2008

Dorothy Perle Jodoin Nourse Ronzone Brown

My mother - GRANDMA BROWN - was born May 17, 1917 in Connecticut. Until she was 60 years of age she always believed she had been born in 1918...

Having been given up for adoption she spent an unknown quantity of time in an orphanage in NYC. My grandparents adopted her when she was about 3-5 years of age and to replace a daughter lost during that time.

They were outstanding people in every way and my mother was always pleased to have been chosen by them. She enjoyed a childhood of privilege & wealth, living the years until she married my dad, (in 1939) in Scarsdale, NY.

She was involved in summer stock and off Broadway productions and attended Alveney School of Dramatic Arts. Her 18th birthday was celebrated at the New York Athletic Club with an orchestra and dancing.

Grandma could recite poetry like no one else I have ever known. Hence the depiction of "The Highwayman" on her cemetery stone in Lake Forest, CA.

Thank you, dear MOTHER - always - for being a light and an example for me.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Remembering Jeanette . . .

My friend Jenny lost her only daughter May 15th, just weeks before she would attend her Senior Prom and then graduation.

It has been a number of years since then, over ten years, but I still remember and Jenny always carries that ache in her heart.

It reminds me that life is so fleeting and that it is important that we value each day as if it might be our last.

Sounds a little gruesome - I apologize - but Jeanette had everything before her and in one moment - one loss of a heartbeat - she was gone.

I do value each person, too...

SO . . . to all of my children (natural and unnatural) and grandchildren I will close with this little ditty I found.

"a little kiss, A little hug, I give you these, with all my love. xoxoxo

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

HOME SWEET HOME!!

Yesterday was a "leaky" day. Kind of a misty showering and not over 70* - a perfect day to feel the blahs.

Today the sun is brightly shining and if the weather news outlook for the week is correct it will rocket to 100* in the next couple of days.

I prefer the blah type days a whole lot more, to tell you the truth.

Our weekend in Utah taught me a few things - time is waiting for no man - or woman - and our Bingham grandkids are growing up and away.

Taylor and Katie seemed so ready to move on with their lives. They will enjoy a wonderful relationship together, I feel.

It was surprisingly melancholy for me - but I could see other family members had various emotions about the Bingham family reunion of sorts.

Grandma Mary being the most memorable for me. Being a few years older than me I can just imagine myself relying on a cane for balance and experiencing that slowing of the body that so often occurs.

It also comes with the realization that family begins to outgrow you before you are exactly ready for that to happen.

Grandma Verdaun and I - still enjoying the companionship of good husbands - are blessed to have a different viewpoint on life, at this moment.

Watching Duncan and Sydney involving themselves in the activities of the weekend filled me with LOVE & gratitude for the relationship(s) we enjoy together!

Seeing our beautiful grandaughter, Megan Taylor, was such a special experience for us, too.

But life is moving forward with a rush that tends to scare me at times. Every day that begins like any other day is another day to be lived to the fullest and cherished equally.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

We're back home, safe and sound...

Happy Mother's Day to you wonderful mothers who do so much for your families!!!

Thank you, Greg, for the lovely phone call ~ I'm sorry to learn the twister was that close to you, but pleased to know all involved are okay (which IS the most important thing of all) depite losing a home and other damages!

Thanks, too, for the Mother's Day tribute via this blog.

Our weekend was memorable and Taylor & Katie's wedding/ sealing/ reception was very nice.

More about that at another time!

We spent Mother's Day with the entire Bingham family.

Loran just turned 80, Craig's sister's birthday was today and then of course all of Craig's sisters and brothers were there for the wedding except for the one black sheep...

That, too, would be a story for some other time, too.

It's good to be home - now I'm off to bed!! xo

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

We're off to see the wiz... the BINGHAMS...

We'll be off tomorrow morning for our whirlwind trip to Utah. Seems like the Baker family just did this last week, right?

We lucked out, though, and found cheap tickets so we could fly! Of course now we have to rent a car when we get there, so it surely wasn't a bargain.

Still it will be fun to see the Bingham bunch and all Craig's extended family members! I'm pretty sure that Katie is probably a bundle of nerves - but then you never know. She may be taking this all "in stride."

Okay - we'll be back on line in just a few days! xo

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

It's countdown until Taylor & Katie's wedding . . .

Taylor, #2 twin, was born minutes after his brother. So I guess it is only natural that he would be second in line to be married.

He and his twin, Riley, are about as different in personality as two people can possibly be. There are so many ways they are different it would be impossible to share in this blog.

But Taylor and Riley have several very important things in common. They have both served honorable missions and have chosen women they can be married to for time and all eternity, in the temples of their choice.

They have chosen women that are perfect for them! They love the Lord and they love their family.

These are the best qualities to have in common - anything else is just frosting on their wedding cakes... xo

Monday, May 5, 2008

DUNCAN / POPPY / DAD'S 68th birthday is finally here!!!

AND . . . beginning today he enters his 69th year!!!

Happy Birthday to my soulmate for eternity...

ALSO . . . countdown now begins for Taylor Bingham/Katrina Marsden's sealing in the Bountiful Utah Temple!

FIVE more days!!

The second oldest of our grandchildren to be married.

Since Debbie is sealed to Duncan and me, we can truly feel the bonds of this eternal ordinance performed in a temple of the Lord.

I am grateful the Lord has seen fit to allow us to celebrate this special event - in person - rather than in spirit, only.

We are blessed to enjoy a blended family that means the very world to both of us and Sydney, too.

AGAIN . . . Happy Birthday, Duncan . . . my eternal companion. xo

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Happy Birthday EVE, Duncan ...

AND... happy Cinco de Maya, too!

Today, being Sunday, is the day the CA family celebrated Poppy's 68th birthday!

It is always nice to be with family for these important days, but we have to grab them as we can, rather than on the actual day.

This is very enjoyable to Sydney who loves celebrating for an entire week. Ice cream, cake, candles and that ever popular birthday song.

We do hope the Bakers will call to serenade Poppy; while we are out on an important Mexican holiday - dining at a Chinese restaurant!!

Today we had fajitas & guacamole, great Mexican carne asada. I think we have all the bases covered!

Welcome back dear Baker family. We wish you were closer, BUT it's good to know you made it back to VA, safe and sound! also, love the latest photo, too!

Theresa, I love the Mother's Day gift ~ you always put a lot of thought, into your very personal gifts... xo

Friday, May 2, 2008

MAY is a beautiful month for a birthday...

My mother, Dorothy (Perle Jodoin) Nourse, aka Grandma (Ronzone) Brown, always loved the fact that her birthday was in May.

Although she was adopted when she was about 5 years old, her original birth certificate (which she received at the age of 60), showed that she was born the 18th of May, but a whole year sooner than she had been told.

So, at the age of 60 she learned she was actually 61 years old...

She also learned she had a middle name, Perle, but she didn't choose to adopt it at that advanced age.

My mother's ancestry has always fascinated me, but I was never able to trace either her natural mother of father as listed on that certificate of her birth. She also had several older siblings, that were lost to her, too...

She never seemed to care; she just treasured the fact that she was born in the lovely month of MAY!

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

NO EXPECTATIONS / NO DISAPPOINTMENTS...

I've been thinking about that statement ever since my friend, Carol, mentioned it in an email recently.

If you think about it this really makes a whole lot of sense.

Next week we'll be going to Utah for Taylor Bingham's wedding. He is our second grandson to be married and has been the single twin until now.

I have really been looking forward to this time, the excitement of a temple wedding, and also because we'll be seeing several of our "out of state" grandkids at the same time.

Now since I am one to have preconcieved ideas about things, it would be very easy for me to dream up plans that simply won't occur.

Along with seeing Taylor, Katie, Riley, Megan, Landon, Collin and Draper we are also looking forward with pleasure to seeing our granddaughter, Megan Taylor, too.

SO, it's just that having NO EXPECTATIONS seems like a really sensible way to go.

Since last September the only one of these grandkids we have seen is Landon - and that was sheer heaven for me ...

Still I'm sticking to my latest motto - all the way! - and it's about time I did, don't you think?!! xoxoxo

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

I have been reading Daughter of Iraq MAYADA by Jean Sasson...

This is a book for our times.

As we prepare for another presidential election at the end of this year, it might behoove each of us to get a better understanding about this war we have waged in Iraq.

Mayada addresses things with which we can not possibly relate. To begin to understand the life of an Iraqi woman - of any class - is to realize we don't comprehend a thing about her/their culture whatsoever.

It is a book well worth reading . . . if you have the stomach for the reality of one woman's survival under Saddam Hussein.

Lovely Americans - we are so completely blessed!!

Sunday, April 27, 2008

The Stake meeting at MVHS was HOT...

I do mean the temperature was sizzling . . . I don't think the air was working very well.

We had Elder Child ( a seventy) & Elder(?) Tingey presiding over the change of presidency and both men are very personable.

Our new Stake president is from the Warnick's ward out in Coto de Caza - anyone surprised? - and his name is Sterling Brennan. He will be a good stake prez.

Jim Carter and Peter Vidmar are the counselors - Peter being a former 3x Olympic Gold medalist for gymnastics some number of years ago. Peter is currently the bishop of his ward...

The outgoing president and his counselors were very solemn as this release came because our current President (Woffinden) was called to serve a role as legal counselor in Brazil for 3 years.

Look for him to be a seventy sometime in the future...perhaps 3 years.

Have a great week!

Saturday, April 26, 2008

We are getting a new Stake President tomorrow!

We have known all of our stake presidents' since our very early days in the church.

This time I can't predict who will be the Lord's pick.

There are so many worthy people in our area. In fact our Newport Beach temple is the busiest small temple in the church.

We are truly fortunate to become so close to those we work with on our shift, in this lovely temple, and to be known by the temple presidency as individual workers.

How I do love weekends, our service in the temple, plus the Sabbath day for worship.

What brings greater joy than this?

Friday, April 25, 2008

A temple sealing is always wonderful...

This morning I met Duncan at the Newport Beach LDS Temple and we attended the sealing of Laura Elizabeth Robertson, age 4, to her parents, Tania & Kent.

All five of Laura's siblings were in attendance.

Laura probably won't remember this day, but her 4 brothers and older sister will! It was a memorable experience and while Laura was quite timid about all of the attention she was receiving - she looked like an absolute angel.

Once again it was confirmed to me how fortunate we are, as a people, to have the sealing ordinances upon the earth. I recollected the time that 4 of our children were sealed to us. Later a 5th, Gregory, was sealed to us, upon reaching the age of twenty-one.

I can see those two days in my mind's eye, as if they happened yesterday. How thankful I am to know these children have the gift of exaltation . . . depending upon the wishes and desires of their hearts.

I sure do value the temple ordinances with all of my heart!

Thursday, April 24, 2008

NOTHING ages you more quickly than your kids ~ unless it's your grandkids...

Today when I was VT with my friend, Faye, she remarked that her oldest granddaughter is thirty. Having twin grandsons, the ripe old age of 23, I suddenly realized I am old enough to be a GRANDMOTHER to many of the members of our ward family.

I instantly remembered that one son has already celebrated his 48th birthday this year ~ taking over that coveted age I have imagined myself being for about 18 years!!

But just to keep this in perspective our dear old friend, Phil Remington - 20 years Duncan/poppy's senior - is still working a fulltime job and building tables, cabinets, and gardening in his free time.

What I realize from all of this is that we are only as old as we feel!! HOWEVER... looking old is no longer an option anymore.

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

A wedding invitation at last...

I know it was finals time at BYU, but still I feel better to have something in writing re: Taylor & Katie's marriage. I've told everyone they DO have a wedding date, but I like having it backed up by facts.

The fact is we are going and are looking forward to 'reunions' of sorts with everyone in Utah. Katie is a really sweet gal and I'm hopeful some of our family members will have an opportunity to meet her.

WHO those family members might be remains an unknown for the moment.

Also coming up is CA family afternoon, Sunday May 4th, at Grammy's & Poppy's in celebration of the May birthdays. Poppy's is Cinco de Mayo so I think we'll give it a Mexican theme.

Bakers' will be celebrating in Georgia - or on the way back!! Have fun at your own reunion of sorts!!

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

OKAY, Greg, you want letters ~ I'll give you a few...

A is for ATTITUDE
B is for BORING
C is for CUTTING
D is for DOROTHY
E is for EXCELLENT
F is for FAILING
G is for GREGORY

Need I go on? ...

Xclamation
Y do you ask?
Z for the middle of Heather's last name.

Now I'm finished playing these games...
Tell me what are your favorite names?

Monday, April 21, 2008

I'm waiting for the letters we are supposed to be doing this month...

A you're adorable
B you're so beautiful
C your the center of my life...

Or is it the alphabet song?

A love letter; a "dear John"
or even a business letter.

No one has yet explained.

I hope this is a stellar week!

Sunday, April 20, 2008

TONIGHT IS THE FULL MOON!

Full moons are very significant to Sydney and Jason. They went on a cruise and snuck out to see the full moon. They have been looking at a lot of full moons since they began dating 3 years ago.

All day long Sydney has been worrying about Heather, whom she is sure has been acting up because of that full moon. Could be, but we've not heard anything - yet.

Taylor and Katie are getting married, all the family IS invited, but so far no invitations have been sent. The date is Saturday, May 10th ... in Bountiful, Utah!

The Sunday before we will be having a May birthday celebration at our house. Dinner about 3pm. Birthdays include Duncan/Poppy, Oliver & Andrea - anyone else I've forgotten?

G & K - we sure wish you and the cherry blossom gang could be here for this one!!

All for tonight...

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Another night at the temple . . .

I really do love Saturdays because we work in the temple late afternoon and we mostly hang out at home getting ready.

Today Duncan/dad decided we should go out for breakfast and we managed to get to Bagels n' Brew about noon!!!

That was our meal for the day because we can't eat later and stay awake for the 6 hours we need to be alert.

Tonight we were able to chat with Hoa and Richard Lattitier - Theresa's parents - who were leaving as we were coming on duty. It's always such a treat to see them and feel their very special spirit!

Church comes early in the day so I am ready to turn off and turn in...

Have a wonderful Sabbath day - it will be a real day of rest for us!

Friday, April 18, 2008

Isabelle is TWO!! Happy Birthday, IZZY!!!

I am probably not making it for Isabelle's birthday . . . it seems to becoming a habit with me!!

I, like Theresa have the card in my purse . . . now why didn't I put it in a postbox you may ask?

I have no idea . . . I've been mailing it all week.

Thank goodness she isn't quite aware of how tardy her grandparents can be about birthdays; we'll try to call tomorrow when the three of us are together!

I'm looking forward to photos from her dad and I sure do wish her mom was blogging like she did in March!!

Much love to the littlest "C.B.s" and her family!! XO Grammy

Thursday, April 17, 2008

It's almost Friday again!!!

Now what on earth happened to this past week?!

I hope it was something earth shaking at least.

Sydney awoke at 4:30am yesterday morning and asked her dad if he survived the earthquake, okay?

Seems she read in the OC Register that SHE should be prepared for a 7.0 earthquake - sometime in the next 36 years - and she managed to convince herself it would be yesterday morning and her dad would be part of it.

I told her if she is going to be predicting earthquakes for the next 36 years, birthdays will have to go!!

No earthquake talk today, thank heaven.

AND ... you thought you had things to worry about, eh?

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Our Enrichment Night Activity was interesting...

It was entitled "Getting the Bugs OUT of your marriage!!"

I took copious notes . . .

Not for myself, of course, but for those newlyweds still entertaining the idea of living happily every after, just like Cinderella - or was that Snow White?!

I also learned that from a man's perspective I've got a long, long way to go!!

And here I thought I was to the "enduring to the end" part of my life...

At least I've got the "put on your make up so HE doesn't have to see you in your dirty PJ's (after a hard day around the house)" part down pretty well.

(THEY didn't address the "coming home from work and putting on that same blue shirt HE's been wearing daily for years" part of the discussion, however...)

It's the hugging and kissing part that has me slightly boggled - particularly after HE says "you're something else, all right," several times in a row.

Nonetheless I do look forward to HIS homecoming every single day ~ and I always will.

WE must be doing "something" right, after all.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Happy Birthday, Nicole!!

Today is my niece, Nicole's birthday. Nicole is now 26!!

In 4 more days it will be Isabelle's 2nd birthday - good grief!!

Will any one get a card on time, this year?

May brings Dad's "Cinco de Maya" birthday,

followed by Oliver's 7th - on the 7th

AND ... Andrea's on the 12th.

OH, and don't forget; Taylor & Katie's sealing on May 10th in the Bountiful Temple!

Happy Days ~ to one and ALL!!

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Today was "fast & testimony" Sunday for us...

As our bishop stood before us today he said they'd "had a plumbing problem the past few months and the leaks seemed to continue still" . . .

Of course he was referring to the loss of their 4 year old son - on the 1st day of 2008 - and the countless tears they have shed over the past few months.

This caused me to reflect about how lucky our family really is. We have certainly had our share of challenges, but many goals have been accomplished, too.

Jason was baptized earlier this month - much to Sydney's joy.

Our Meg appears happy - and, as always, beautiful - and her family seems to be enjoying her visits home so very much.

Gregory,II will be leaving home for college in the fall and Collin almost has one year of college underhis belt; at the ripe old age of eighteen!

Ben was accepted to Campbell Hall, thus guaranteeing that his family will stay in LA for the next year, at least!

Webb was reunited with Ryan, his 19 year old son and Seth, Denise and family had a barbecue at his home in Kihei, Maui this weekend.

Taylor is marrying in the month of May - I hope we ALL are invited soon!

Megan (& Riley) suffered an early miscarriage this month...

Craig and Debbie have Craig's mom living with them in Oregon

AND ~ another month is half way over - before it has seemed to begin!

I am learning what it means to "endure to the end." My patience may be sorely tested, but only because I am finding it increasingly difficult to MULTI-TASK as I have always done in the past.

The mind is slowing; pray it doesn't quit on me all together.

Have a nice week... xo

Saturday, April 12, 2008

The midnight hour . . .

In about two minutes it's the midnight hour.

That means I have 7 hours to sleep before I must get up and off to church.

One day pretty much runs into another around here. There is always something going on.

The temple was pretty slow tonight, but always brings me a whole lot of pleasure.

Have a wonderful Sabbath day, ya'll.

Friday, April 11, 2008

A day late, like everything else ~ Happy 18th birthday, COLLIN!!

We did call Collin and the answer machine came back on at the end of our serenade! (Maybe the song never recorded, but we sure hope it did!)

Some folks - like Aleks - never get their birthday song from us at all.

Can you tell the old minds are breaking down just a bit?!!

Every year I say I will be "on time" or early for each birthday.

So happy birthday to all coming up in May - ahead of time!!

That is Dad/poppy, Oliver, Andrea and Grandma Brown, too...

Nicole is the only April birthday still to come.

Happy birthday everyone!!!

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Webb is off to Maui today!

It almost seems like a dream ~ having Webb here for 3 whole days!

Tuesday night he had a great reunion with his son, Ryan. Webb was overjoyed with all the emotions one might feel having reconnected with a son he has not seen in many years...

Yesterday he went back for more and this morning he is having breakfast with Ryan once again.

What began as a chance layover in CA - to see the folks - has become a good father & son reunion which will only grow with time.

He'll be missed here in southern Orange County, but he has found another part of his soul in Brea, for sure.

Have a wonderful journey home to Cindy, now, Webster . . . XO Mom

Monday, April 7, 2008

WELCOME BACK, WEBB!!

While working in GA may not be the most perfect place in the world, Webb sure was enjoying working with such fine exotic wood from Brazil.

The wood did not like him, however, and he ended up a big swollen, itchy, blotchy mess! Why he has sacs under the sacs under his eyes!!

His skin is cracked and peeling all over his face - not unlike a person with bad burns and scars on his face.

An allergic reaction sent him on his way, long before his job was finished!

That reaction forced him to start home early and with a layover in LA, he was able to fit in a few days with his folks in Orange County!

Seeing him is so wonderful - Denise, Seth and the kids came by to visit with him and also to play some WII.

They will be having a barbecue with Webb & Cindy next weekend in Maui!! Lucky them!

Nice surprises like this I could use more often!!

Sunday, April 6, 2008

CONFERENCE WEEKEND and the gang was here...

We've had an enjoyable weekend and somehow managed to see quite a bit of General Conference as well! This is amazing in itself since Andrea, Chris and the kids have been here this weekend and therefore so have Denise, Seth and their kids!

Denise, Seth and the kids found themselves without tickets to Hawaii with the shutdown of ATA. Fortunately Denise's parents came to the rescue and they will be off to Maui on Tuesday!

I always LOVE any opportunity I have to spend with the CA grandkids and this weekend was no exception! The latest thrill of the week is SKATEBOARDING and I have some pictures to prove it.

So while family members spent two days enjoying the parks in Aliso Viejo and Foothill Ranch I was able to spend that time watching conference! There was such a sweet spirit on Saturday AM ... as the 16th President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was sustained.

The messages from the speakers were right on target, which was no surprise. I look forward to reading on the internet, those talks I unfortunately missed.

Having family around that are not active members of our church certainly limited our discussions about speakers we really felt hit our marks - but we will utilize FHE for that.

Sydney watched all of today and 2 hours yesterday! Hurray for her!!!

Coming tomorrow . . . Webb's visit to his CA family!! xo

Friday, April 4, 2008

IT'S HERE..."sky rockets"... Happy 47th Birthday, GREG!!!

It's really hard to believe . . . you have dispaced me from my 'almost' favorite age! My first choice was 42, but then I had to age a little bit and so 47 was very comfortable ~ and - for a long, long time!

We are throwing a birthday party for you tonight at Fuddrucker's... I'm sorry you can't be there!!

Maybe Theresa, Kevin and the kids will remember our weekly, Friday night at Fuddruckers, since they are footloose and fancy free this week!

Enjoy your artichokes sometime this weekend ... if you ever find the time!!

It's your day - thoroughly enjoy it, no matter what you do!! XO Mom

Thursday, April 3, 2008

FRIDAY, the fourth, is coming!!!

Did you ever think ARTICHOKES ... dripping in butter, each leaf, succulent, and the heart filled with amazing taste that has been enhanced with garlic?!

The bigger the ARTICHOKE, the more you have to enjoy!!!

I think this might be an ARTCHOKE weekend, coming up!

I don't know why exactly, except tomorrow is the FOUTH - of April - and YOU know what that means!!

ARTICHOKES, ARTICHOKES, ARTICHOKES!!

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

I missed April 1st . . . HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARGARET!

Yesterday morning Sydney awakened me extra early telling me she thought there was someone in the house downstairs. I looked at the clock and told her "It's probably your dad!"

But no, he'd already left for work. So I tiptoed over to our bedroom door and closed and locked it - only to remember it was April 1st!!!

The day didn't progress any better. I had a smoothie Duncan made and left in the fridge and a couple of hours later my stomach started to curdle . . . that which was within at least, and so so it went all night.

You don't suppose Duncan packed that smoothie with an extra wallop of sour milk, in celebration of the day? Actually I'm quite sure it was just a 24 hour flu.

I hope everyone else's month began better...

Monday, March 31, 2008

A LAST DAY FOR LISTS . . .

Heavenly Father grant me:

Wisdom
Strength
Patience
Joy in my trials
Compassion
A charitable heart
Forgiveness
Understanding
Gratitude
Strength in my convictions
A continuing testimony
Faith
Acceptance
Unwavering love
Peace
A place in thy kingdom

Sunday, March 30, 2008

I REALLY DO LOVE SUNDAYS . . .

I love our ward. We have great teachers and the best Bishop ever!

I love the break from the rest of the week.

I love the Sundays when family members visit. It doesn't happen often enough.

I love this particular Sunday because Sydney's (boyfriend) Jason was baptized.

I love our church friends /family. They are truly supportive of us!

I love Jason's family and their united support for him.

I LOVE the gospel of Jesus Christ; and . . .

I love sharing it with Duncan, Sydney and members of our family.

I love each of you, too!!!

Saturday, March 29, 2008

SATURDAYS are temple days...

I always wondered how Cathleen's parents could stand to "give up" their Saturday evenings to work in the temple. Saturdays, when families gather and all sorts of fun things were happening within their huge family, which also, is not unlike ours.

That is until we started serving in the Newport Beach, CA temple ourselves.

I guess each person has a different take on the temple - ours is of the more eternal nature, at our age.

All I know is that I feel GOOD when I enter the doors of the temple and I am uplifted in ways it's not easy to describe.

Today & tonight were no exception... serving in the temple really warms my heart!

Friday, March 28, 2008

SUNDAY IS A SPECIAL DAY FOR A BAPTISM...

This Sunday in particular, is a day always to be remembered,

Jason Tomasko's decision to enter the waters of baptism.

We hope he understands the commitments he is making, to take the name of Jesus Christ upon himself...

Sydney is beside herself with JOY,

Because for Sydney, Jason is a very unique and special boy!

Sunday, March 30th, RSM stake center, 5:30PM

All are welcome and most certainly invited . . .

Thursday, March 27, 2008

THINGS i LOVE . . .

Duncan

California sunsets

ARTICHOKES

Grandkids HUGS!!

Noodles w/ butter

ANYTHING w/ butter

Clean, fresh smelling sheets

Grandsons & granddaughters

Warm, turquoise, ocean water

Meeting at Fuddrucker's on Friday nights

Maui w/ family

Sydney, Australia

Lifelong friends

Fresh salmon

Serving in the Newport Beach Temple

My children - all 8 of them

LIFE

The gospel of Jesus Christ

Marie Calander's pies

Lay's potato chips

BUTTERED Popcorn on Sunday nights

Lunch out with the 'girls'

A really GOOD book

The United States of America

Orange blossoms

CHERRY BLOSSOMS, TOO!

Blogging w/family ~ :~)

Monday, March 24, 2008

HAPPY "48TH" BIRTHDAY TO MY FIRSTBORN, WEBB

On this beautiful Monday morning I was reflecting how quickly the time has gone by since Webb was first born.

So many changes in so many ways! However, I would not change my life for anything.

I feel I am still learning the things the Lord put me on this earth to experience and with each decade I become a little wiser - and dumber at the same time.

The more I learn, the more I understand how little I really do know.

I do remember how utterly clean my two little boys needed to be . . . once dressed for an occasion they could not get get one speck of dirt anyplace on their bodies.

Debbie was even more challenging . . . she after all was a GIRL.

Entered Duncan and his four boys and all of that changed completely. Laundry was stacked so high I couldn't find my washing machine.

But like I said; I wouldn't change much about those incredible days for anything.

I'm thankful for 48 years of parenting no matter how difficult some of those times were. Congratulations, Webb, on being FIRST . . . someone had to do it, right?!!

I am grateful for the joy of that wonderful day so long ago. The true proof of a Heavenly FAther who loves each of us so very much...

Sunday, March 23, 2008

Saturday, March 22, 2008

HAPPY EASTER, ONE AND ALL!!

I am still trying to think of a way to present any of my many lists. You know, sorting them out in a way that makes sense and doesn't require any time...

Maybe tomorrow I'll actually do this, but I'm still trying to post some photos on my Photoshow.

Wherever does the time go?!!

Since we have been away we'd made no plans for Easter; I'm finding I can't seem to plan anything in advance nowadays...

However Denise came to the rescue and invited us to join her family celebration. They decorate the eggs and everything!!

I have a zillion filled Easter eggs - Seth & Denise are going to kill me! All chocolate for the most part (the kids will be overjoyed.)

I'm taking some to Heather's house, maybe more than half.

We all hope you all have a delightful day and wish we could be with everyone, like in the "good old days."

Happy Easter / Sabbath Day.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALEKS!!!

I tried to leave a message for Aleks, but it didn't go through. Aleks, I hope your haircut is perfect and that everything about your day is perfect, too! I can't believe you are eleven years old. WOW!!

Please ask your mom or dad to advance you $30 for your birthday, okay? I am very late getting your card off to you :-( I hope that will add to anything extra you might like to have for your birthday.

We will be traveling to Utah on your birthday, but we will try to call before we leave. That means you won't be home, but we can leave our "message."

Happy Birthday, ALL DAY!! ENJOY!!

We love YOU!!!! P, G & S

Saturday, March 8, 2008

This list thing is driving me crazy!!!

Tonight we set our clocks ahead one hour and I have used up any time I might have had for lists!! That requires a thought process that is not with me at midnight, that's for sure.

The truth is I'm not sure it's a process I have retained this late in my life.

My mind likes to wander on it's own and usually I forget all the wonderful discoveries I think I have implanted from my memory disk!

I know have some neat things to share about my parents, grandparents and greats grands, etc.! I've just kind of forgotten what kind of format I was planning to use.

Maybe tomorrow...you think?

For now it's time for bed.

Friday, March 7, 2008

I'm too tired to make my list tonight...

Although I know I promised a different kind of list about my most recent posterity I find I am too tired tonight to make a list that would make sense. Having had Heather and Sydney along with Steve and me, today, we did some shopping, had Heather's haircut, spent time with Seth, Denise and family along with Nicole, at Fuddruckers.

We all felt really beat, except for Sydney! She is like the Every Ready bunny - she never runs out of steam. We've had a good visit - Heather , Steve and I, and mostly have turned Steve over to Nicole for the weekend.

I have come to realize that nothing feels so comfortable as spending time with your sibling(s) ~ even when the bonds have not been held very close for some time. I am grateful that Steve felt the need to come visit Heather and his his CA family and I know Nicole feels the same way.

I hadn't thought so much about it since Steve and Margaret moved to Florida, but I am surely glad to have had this "threesome" time together. Though you won't read this blog, "Thanks, Steve, I love you..."

Thursday, March 6, 2008

I am NOT a crossword puzzle whiz!!

Last night, while thumbing through the newspaper my brother, Steve, aka as "Unc" asked if he could take the cartoon section of the newspaper. My first impression was that he loved the "real life" cartoons (that are "somewhat" my obsession) for their wisdom and resemblances to true life experiences.

Alas, no, he was wanting the crossword puzzle to sharpen his mind and in doing so he reflected of the line of the crossword puzzle fanciers (family members) that have gone before us this past 100 plus years...

This in turn caused me to reflect upon these most recent ancestors and the type of lists I could share on their behalf.

Tomorrow I will undertake this challenge to bring them just a little bit to life, using a format underwritten by me.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Living in near paradise

Today was a perfect day to be spent out in the sun. Instead I, Joyce, had MY head in Heather's closet all afternoon. She still has a full closet, BUT most of the clothes are in her size and the dust bunnies under her "hope chest" have been conquered.

Thanks to the UNC we managed to toss away a lot of Heather's junk and pack up many of her stuffed animals and dolls. Next step is to load them into my car so we can create more chaos around here!

As for the fridge - I think we were sidetracked by American Idol and decided that it's not that bad after all.

Did I mention that Unc Steve is a very easy guest; he's a lot like Grandma Brown that way. Tomorrow we hit the big times at Target!! Heather is beside herself with joy at spending time with her brother and she nearly knocked me over, getting to him!!

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

The "UNC" is back in CA ...

This is a nice treat for me; my brother is here to visit for a few days. Those of you having brothers living nearby - or sisters for that matter - know that spending time with a sibling feels like the most familiar thing in the world.

Even though Steve is going to celebrate his 60th birthday this year, he will always be MY baby brother. First he came in and quickly informed me he would be happy to help me clean my refridgerator ... smells yukky according to him! But first we are going to clean out Heather's room which he knows is piled high with stuffed animals, DOLLS and clothes. Wait until he sees her closet shelf filled with puzzles.

I guess it's the "pack rat" instincts in our family that will quickly drive him mad. Duncan is thrilled to have someone agree with him; a lot of things around here must go!!

Monday, March 3, 2008

March 3rd... money in the bank day!!!

Since January 1st (although never as a New Year's goal) I have made it a point not to use my Visa or the AmEx card, until they are pretty much paid off...
It doesn't seem to matter that I stayed home every day so I could manage to not out spend the money I have available to me through the end of the month. In January it was kind of easy... only 3 birthdays - and the after Christmas blah's had set in anyway.

February is a short month; only 28 days usually, but of course this year was Leap Year and so it seemed like the 3rd would never arrive. Usually I can coax some extra money out of Duncan, (if necessary) but this time I had to borrow from Sydney - heaven forbid!

Perhaps it's because there were 3 babies born in February (at church) and 5 birthdays in the space of 8 days. Whatever the reason I almost ran out of $$ days before the new month!

I hate to run out of cash more than anything; but my credit card has to be paid, as does the tithing & fast offerings each month.

SO - I went shopping with gift certificates Duncan gave me (for my birthday) to my favorite shop. I did find a few things I needed and it gave me a real lift as well. I entered a contest to win a $50 gift certificate and guess what - I won!!

So... what do you think... just maybe this getting out of recent debt thing will pay off in the long run for me.

Sunday, March 2, 2008

Fast Sunday fats . . .

Today was fast Sunday - the first Sunday of the month! As usual I made popcorn for the Ruffners and we had additional company as well. I put over 2 sticks of butter on the popcorn which in real measurements is 1/2 a lb!!! I am a butter freak and I'm sure you could NEVER tell.

I am supposed to think about LISTS...but where would I start? I have lots of lists around my house with only 1/2 the things crossed off; probably because I put that list down somewhere and never came upon it again!

I think lists are the sign of an organized mind and mine is chaotic!!

Saturday, March 1, 2008

The "LISTS" of March just flew out the window...

Okay you "guys"~ no fair ... I haven't the slightest idea what Memes are, even though they have been thoroughly explained. I admit it - I still live in the 1990's and before.

So let me continue my 70's stories for just a little while longer.

We had a big old yellow Ford van with seats for 100 (slightly exaggerating of course) and all I did was taxi people around, all over southern CA. Now that is NO lie, but now I'm digressing myself.

One afternoon, when we lived on Via Viajante, in old El Toro, (which was then at the end of nowhere, believe it or not), I was dropping off kids here and there and one in particular, Kevin, desperately wanted to escape the house and tour the old K-Mart, right in the heart of town... By himself!

I dropped him off with the promise of stopping for him on the way home from picking up others along the route. Now I'm sure you can guess the rest. It was before the time of cell phones and Kevin was penniless. I did my pick ups, forgetting only one stop...

As we were getting ready for dinner someone asked where Kevin was. I, too, began to wonder why he wasn't hanging out in the kitchen, impatiently awaiting dinner, with the rest of the gang.

Finally the phone rang and guess who was calling. Imagine how upset he was that he had to bum money from a complete stranger only to find out that his parent-driver had completely forgotten she had even dropped him off...

I'm still not sure I ever lived that one down.

Friday, February 29, 2008

Leap Year day - 2008...

Having an extra day this year should stand for something, don't you think? Following a harrowing night, I awoke late and have been dragging ever since. The reason being I decided to save a whole bunch of $$$ by having a very back tooth pulled rather than a root canal and crown. I didn't know how traumatic that would be. Now I have one less precious tooth left in my mouth and an extra day in February to mourn the loss. Oh my aching mouth :-)

Sydney's life just rolls on, however, and so tonight we have the privilege of accompanying Syd and Jason to the DSAOC Red Carpet Ball. Since it is near Disneyland, just over the line in Costa Mesa, we'll just hang around there so as not to make two trips in one night. Remind me again how (I/we) have become an extension of Sydney's ofttimes compelling journey through life.

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Laundry, tents & the bandit in the house ...

Since I am still thinking of the early 70's I thought I'd share the saga of the bandit in the house. We were living in the Aegean Hills tract and our back yard bordered on a greenbelt of sorts.


One day as I returned home I realized that none of our kids were home. I began working in the kitchen, probably ready to prepare another huge pot of spagetti or some such economical meal, when I heard someone behind the pantry doors.


I asked who was there and got no answer. My hair was standing on end ... it was probably an axe murderer rifling through my food. I softly picked the largest knife I could find, held it poised above my head and threw open the door!!


I don't know who was more scared - me - or the poor UNNAMED son, standing there with a cookie box to fend me off. I still laugh thinking about how HE must have felt to see this deranged mother, poised to kill or be killed.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Happy Birthdays to Chris (Taylor) & Megan (Bingham)

Perhaps if I post early in the day I'll jog memories that more folks are having birthdays!!


Since Duncan and I are in our 36th year of marriage it occurs to me that Chris was about 10 when he and his brothers blended their names and their lives with the Baker 3, plus me.

Hopefully they've forgotten (or at least forgiven) those earliest years with me ... never have I seen such piles of laundry in my life!! Duncan (the dad) ran out of clean underwear often and found it best to learn the functions of the washer & dryer very quickly.

Dunc, Jr. had mono that first summer and by the following summer 5 of the boys had set up a tent in the back yard as they were "kicked" outside to play ~ out from under foot. This tent faced my kitchen window so I could see them moping around; bored out of their wits. Thus began our journey "together."

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Today is "Tuesdays with Phil" day . . .

How this vital 87 year old 'he man' ever found himself sharing dinners on Tuesdays is probably more amazing to him than to us . . . Phil Remington, a fabricator for Dan Gurney (former race car driver) and the brains behind the Cobra race car, joins us each Tuesday (or Weds) for dinner and an occasionally challenging conversation. His latest project as the head of Dan's team is building parts for the "Raven" which has a 4 foot wing span and is used by the armed forces for unmanned surveillance missions.



While Duncan and I recap our most recent ailments, as well as those of our friends; Phil takes home knives to sharpen and brass on the handles to polish. Never one to sit around, Phil grows beautiful flowers and vegetables in his garden then shares them with us each week.



If something seems wrong with this picture - you're right! Phil IS twenty years older and a whole lot healthier and active than most folks our age!!

Monday, February 25, 2008

Why was I so exhausted this morning?!?!

Everything ached this morning ~ do you think it's because I didn't take the time to change out of my boots after church yesterday? Despite the fact I still look "45" I can assure anyone viewing my blog, that my body feels every bit of its 66 years...

Okay, so I don't quite look 45 anymore and I may be fudging on the birth year, but what's a grandmother to do? I feel as if I'm about 5 months pregnant . . . and I only ate ONE of Theresa's chocolate chip cookies. Why I even fibbed to a granddaughter and told her all of the cookies were gone when there were still TWO left. I repented and gave the two girls the last two cookies . . . saving myself from approximately 300 more calories!!!

These family events are not non-caloric, that's for sure. Which brings me to the Martha Stewart cookbook. If I just look at the pictures I gain extra weight. I love to know that two families are cooking with their girls; it doesn't come any better than that!

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Everyone had fun at the "BIRTHDAYS" family get together!

Actually there are 5 birthdays in the space of one week. We've added Megan (Riley) Bingham to the extended & blended family, as well. Sydney was very excited because her brother Seth was able to buy the last WII available at his Target store today!! She is looking forward to 'bowling' with Jason on Tuesday. Thank you SETH for keeping your "ear to the ground" and finding the perfect gift for our 25 year old!!

Ben received a HUGE fire truck from Seth's family. It is bigger than he is . . . with all the bells and lights! I think everyone had fun together and Jason - no longer overwhelmed by the masses - thinks our family is very "cool!" It was nice to have Nicole (Ronsone) & the Ruffners join us and Louise & Ashley, too! Thanks to all the locals for making it a very energetic and enjoyable day!!

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Today is Ben's birthday - happy 5th, BEN

Ben is the most traveled five year old I know!! Ben has lived in more countries than any member of the rest of the Taylor/Baker/Bingham clan can claim with the exception perhaps of his parents! He has visited a number more as well!

Perhaps he will enjoy a local family get-together tomorrow to celebrate his 5th birthday the old fashion way. An ice cream cake with an off key rendition of "Happy Birthday to YOU!" Sydney will be joining Ben as the grand finale of her quarter century of life...

Birthdays are a huge event in our lives. We sure are grateful for every one of them!

Today is also our evening to work in the Newport Beach Temple. Duncan, Sydney and I leave the house promptly at 3pm and return a little before 11pm. We are there to serve the patrons who take time away from more frivolous Saturday night activities to be spiritual nourished in the temple of the Lord. It is our favorite part of the week and time well spent.

Friday, February 22, 2008

It's Jonathan Andrew's 7th birthday!!

Today is Jonathan's birthday!! Happy Birthday, JON!! I told Denise tonight I keep forgetting to do things every single day and this day is no exception ~ I waited to call Jon, thinking 3pm CA time would be about perfect and guess what; it is 11pm VA times and guess who forgot to make that call?!! I sure hope his gift arrived at least...

Friday's are Fuddrucker's nights. On most Fridays Denise, Seth and their four usually join Heather, Sydney, Jason, Duncan (and me) for "kid's" meals, dollar $$ bills and an occasional ice cream sundae. We are holding informal FHE's in this way.

This is a busy month birthday-wise!! Sydney kicked off the birthday cycle on the 20th, with Jonathan on the 22nd, Ben Taylor on the 23rd and Megan (BINGHAM) and Chris' birthday on the 27th. Talk about breaking the bank!!!

And WHAT has happened to February? Duncan/poppy/dad is convinced time goes faster as one ages, I suppose he is right . . . but then again, when isn't he? You have to love the guy; even though he really isn't perfect.

Thanks for all of the comments!! If I comment on the comments I'll be here permanently I fear!!

Thursday, February 21, 2008

The day after Sydney's 25th birthday

I'm not sure how Sydney's birthday has turned into a weeklong event. Could it be because her birthday falls during President's Day week and she always was away from school during that week, skiing at the NAC in Park City, Utah? Whatever the reason, this year is no different. We will be partying right up through this Sunday - gaining extra ounces and pounds from all the ice cream and treats we are eating!

I have been eagerly looking forward to Theresa's blogs each night before I head off to bed. The photos are fun and the messages, great! Now that the Baker family members are also contributing their blogs I'll have to get an earlier start on my nightly routine. I have found that Tory and her dad, Greg, seem to have a knack for meandering along that may trace its way back into the Ronzone family genealogy...

It is a gift I'd say I share -this Ronzone trait - so it will be suffcient for you all to know that I will hold off on comments to others and just stick to my own form of blogging for awhile.

I am so enjoying all of your comments and I only wish I could have a piece of pizza and drink with Cathleen; or is that a hot dog with Greg at Costco! My trips there are now few and far between!

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Happy Birthday Sydney


Sydney went to Dave and Buster's with Jason for her 25th birthday.

Happy Birthday Sydney!

Greg set this blog up for me so the pictures, template and everything are just temporary.