Grandpa & Grandma:
Dear Family,
We had a great Thanksgiving with those who were able to join us. We thought about the rest of you and hope we can see you soon. We learned there will be 4 more members of our family next year. These are wee ones who have yet to come into mortality.
I remember a Christmas many years ago. We lived about 20 miles outside of Rexburg. There were no paved roads . They were all covered with snow. We lived in a home attached to a one room school house. My father was the school teacher of that school. In the front part of our kitchen was my bed. Then there was a coal burning stove which was our heat for the room. Back of that stove were two more beds, one for our parents and one for the boys. We also had a table in the front of the stove. A lamp furnished our light. We decorated a real tree and put it in the class room. We made decorations out of construction paper. Mainly they were chains made from construction paper. I don't remember if it was on Christmas day or later, but I think it was on Christmas day, our Grandparents along with an uncle and aunt drove their car as far as they could then walked in the deep snow up to our house. They brought with them Puffed Rice balls. They were like popcorn balls but were made out of Puffed rice. I thought they were the neatest thing they could have brought. I don’t remember anything else only those rice balls. Our visitors spent the day with us before setting off into the deep snow headed for home. I don't know if there were any illnesses from that trek. What a sacrifice that was for them. We spent the week tying a quilt in the class room. We expect a very different Christmas this than we had many years ago. I think that year, I received a little rocking chair.
We wish all of you a very happy Christmas and a great prosperous New Year. We all have much to be thankful for.
Much Love
Grandpa and Grandma Wilkinson
Ron & Maud Mary Family:
We are all doing great. We had a fun Thanksgiving and missed those of youwho weren't there. Hopefully we will see you at Christmas.
About the only new news from our family is Brent and Melissa's newadditions. Harley who is 7 months old and Perci who is 2 1/2 years old. Weare all already attached to them.
We are all looking forward to school being out for Christmas Break. Karenis done in 1 week and Anne and Niki are done in 2 weeks.
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
From Shannon:
Sweet Potato Casserole
3 cups sweet potato (cooked and mashed)
1 cup sugar1
/2 cup melted butter or margarine
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1/3 cup milk
mix together well and put in casserole dish
topping
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 1/2 tbs. margarine or butter
1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup pecans (I omit this)
mix together and sprinkle on top of casserole.
bake at 350 for 25 minutes. serve hot
Dan & Verna Family:
We had a wonderful time at Grandma's in Draper. All our family was together and we had to do Thanksgiving in shifts, but that just made it last longer and be more fun. We had Turkey, Ham, salads, dressing, and green bean casserole that I forgot to take out of the oven, bbq weenies, baked beans and for dessert we had yummy pies from JB's that Tisha brought. I didn't count how many were there, but we enjoyed being together. Jamie had the flu and stayed home and Kaden, one of my twins was with his bio family, but otherwise, my whole family was there. It all turned out so fun. Thanks Mom and Dad for the use of your house. We also went to the malls, not on Black Friday, but on Saturday, so it was rather lovely. Next to being with my family the next best thing was Brandon and Suzanne's announcement. I won't go into detail because I am assuming they will contribute to the newsletter, but it was a surprise and I was so happy to hear it.
In other news, Dan is finishing up another semester at school. He should be able to graduate with his associates next spring. Then on to USU (campus in Price). My girls are doing lovely. My twins are so cute. Except I am trying hard to break Anthony of his biting habit. Any ideas from you young mothers out there???? Robert never bit anyone, that I know of. We will be up around the 20th of December for birthday celebrations and early Christmas. Hope to see some of you then.
Brandon & Suzanne Family:
Keaton experienced his first big screen movie Bolt on Thanksgiving after a great brunch at Denny's. Our thanksgiving recipe is, "Go to Denny's and order off their menu." We also got to see the rest of the extended Higbee clan.
Oh and if you didn't know, Eric and Shannon are having another kid.
John & Elizabeth Family:
The month of November was very busy for our family. One of the more exciting things that happened was our daughter, Sara, turned 6 on the 20th. She is getting to be so smart and has such a personality. It's truly amazing to have the perfect child. We are so blessed! In our family, we have a tradition to choose where we want to go for dinner on our birthday. I was trying to prompt her to choose Red Lobster (she loves crab, shrimp, and of course lobster), but she instead chose, ewwwww, Chuck-A-Rama. Oh well. She had a birthday party with our family on Thursday night then had a party with her friends on Saturday at Boondocks. It was great fun. I was a bit worried to see that she had more friends that were boys than girls. I guess I can't blame her. In her class at school, the boys make up 2/3rds of the class. Although, come to think of it, she did invite a 1st grader boy.....hmmmmm. All in all, she had a great birthday. Thank you to Grandma and Grandpa Wilkinson for the card and gift!
Another fun part of the November month was Thanksgiving. We, of course, did the Thanksgiving Day marathon, going from dinner at 1 with Verna and Dan's family in Draper to my brother's family in Park City by 4. It was insane and VERY filling, but also quite fun. We were happy to see all of you and Sara was so excited to hang out with all her aunts. What was not so great was the gaining 5 pounds. I hope I get a treadmill for Christmas. It was also EXTREMELY fun to have the girls to stay overnight a few nights. Tanya, Faith, Kara, KaRanda and I all played Guitar Hero on the 360 until our fingers felt the onset of carpal tunnel. I am greatly looking forward to the next match!
Other than Holidays and birthdays, business is going very well. We hired a several new sales reps and they are already showing signs of promise. It's all SO time consuming but very worthwhile to be able to stay at home to do it.
This time of the year is the best. We always love getting together with family we so rarely see. I was very happy to get my house in complete order (after being here for 2 months, yikes!), but now comes the exciting part of redecorating it for Christmas. Since November is a time for us to be grateful for what we have, I would just like to share a bit of exactly that. First and foremost, I am SO grateful for my family. I have the most wonderful husband in the universe. He does so much for our family and is always so caring of others, he is truly an amazing person. I love him dearly. I couldn't have asked for a better husband and father of Sara. I am extremely grateful to have the daughter I have. She is an amazing person and daily keeps me on my toes to be a better teacher, cleaner, doctor, friend and most importantly, mom. I am truly in awe of how I could deserve to be one of the parents to such an exceptional child. I am grateful that I married into such an amazing family. I love John's mom and dad. They are one-in-a-trillion type of people, as you all know, who I look to for an example. They have two of the best hearts I know. They have awesome children whom I am grateful to call each my brother or sister. I am also very grateful to belong to an amazing Church that has such outstanding values. Daily, it keeps me grounded and when I get down, I know the difficult times are so minute on the grand scale of things. That is so wonderful to know everything we go through has a reason to shape us into people that are worthy of living with our Heavenly Father and brother Jesus Christ again. It's really comforting to know we live in the Truth. I am grateful to be able to live in this difficult but remarkable time that has so many advances in the world. Geez.......I won't write anymore about what I'm grateful for. It would go on forever. Ok, sorry, one last thing. I am grateful to have all of you in my family. Even though we speak so infrequently, you are still in my thoughts and prayers. Hope you all have a very happy holiday!
Recipe for Pear Salad
8 cups of torn lettuce leaves
2/3 cup of caramelized walnuts
blue cheese dressing (Litehouse brand is the best I've found)
1 pear, cut into small slices
restaurant-style croutons
blue cheese crumbles
This is one of the best salads I've ever had and one of the easiest to make. Literally just combine all ingredients above and toss together. To make the caramelized walnuts I just crush them into smaller pieces first, coat them with butter, sprinkle them evenly with brown sugar. Then put them in the oven at 350 degrees for about 7-10 minutes. Let cool in the refrigerator then serve.
Gary & Bev Family:
Our Family was a little scattered for Thanksgiving! Gary & Bev and Riley & Tricia and kids joined everyone in St. George, Kellen & Camille & Olivia were in Salt Lake with Camille's family, and Britany & Jeremy and kids enjoyed Thanksgiving in Arizona. Everyone had a good time in the places that they were!
We had a lot of fun seeing, spending time with and chatting with everyone that was able to make it to St. George. There was a lot of good food served and made us all eat way to much!
We are all looking forward to Christmas and enjoying this time of year!
(Walmart was out of a few things that belong in the salad, so if you see it in the recipe and don't remember it being there, that is why!)
Pasta Salad:
1 (16 oz) pkg Bow Tie Pasta
1 (16 oz) pkg Corkscrew Pasta
1 cup sliced red grapes
1 large can Mandarine Oranges
1 can Pineapple Tidbits
1 can Water Chestnuts
sliced green oinion (optional)
1 cup mayonaise
1 bottle cole slaw dressing (I like to buy 2 and add more after it has set)
1 cup cashews
you can also add chicken to this, that makes it a little more filling!
just mix it all together and there ya go, a tasty pasta salad!
Dwayne & Patty Family:
November has been a great month. We welcomed a new grandson into our family. Ryder Ross Wilkinson was born to Todd and Jade on Nov. 21 at 8:54am. He weighed 6lbs. 9 oz. and was 20 inches long. Todd and Jade have adjusted to parenthood. Jade is recovering nicely. Thanksgiving our family was kinda scattered. Dwayne ( who had to work Friday and Saturday ) was in SL and had Thanksgiving with my brother and his family. Ben and Alissa had Thanksgiving at their home. Alissa's mother and grandmother came and had dinner with them and they had a enjoyable time. Todd, Jade, Steph, Heather and I spent Thanksgiving in St. George. It was great to see family and enjoy the delicious food. Heather and I then went to California for her best friend's wedding. It was good to enjoy the California scenery and visit with friends.
Strawberry Yogurt Salad One container of Cool Whip
2 small strawberry yogurts
1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
1/2 bag small marshmellows
Mix Cool Whip, yogurts, and strawberries.
Refregerate until ready to serve then add marshmellows.
Hal & Diana Family:
Not much to say, just that it was great to see so many of you after such a long time. We loved Thanksgiving this year. Thanks again to Nicky for cutting my hair and Karen for bringing her Wii games. We are hooked. Also Thanks Kelly for finding us a Wii of our very own. Next year at Thanksgiving, we will be the champion Wii players. Karen, you won't have a chance,be prepared!!!!
Hope ya'll have a Merry Christmas.
We will be spending time in Draper after Christmas, waiting for 2 new grandbabies. Maybe some of you could stop by and say hello.
Jeremy & Laura Family:
Our semester is over next week. We are SOOOOO happy to be done. This means that Laura is all done with her program and will be a bonified teacher. Baby is doing well and will hopefully come in time for Christmas. If not, she will surely come before the new year. :) Paul has enjoyed preschool and learned a lot there. We were surprised to find out that he knew several of his letters and sounds and numbers and colors. Hooray! Jeremy is glad to be done with this semester. Finals are the last thing on our list before we heave a deep sigh and fall onto our couch to rest during our holiday break.
Josh & Jessica Family:
We had a great Thanksgiving this year in St. George. It was great to see everyone and we really did have some great food.
I made the Stuffing and people seemed to like it.
The recipies is
1 1/2 bags of bread crumbs, bacon, sausage, shredded carrots, onions, celery and really any veggies that you want.
While the sausage and bacon is browning add the veggies and cook until veggies are soft.
Pour in a can of chicken broth, season with pepper, salt and poultry seasoning. Add this to the bread crumbs and mix well. Put this stuff in a lightly greased 9x13 pan and pour a cup of melted butter over this. cook at 350 for 20-25 min! That's it.
Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and we can't wait for Christmas at our house.
McKendry turns 4 on the 14th and is really excited about that. I can't believe how fast the time has gone. Connor is doing great and loves to talk on the phone. I think he gets that from me! The kids loved decorating the house for Christmas and McKendry thinks that our house looks pretty and magical so that is all that matters! Merry Christmas everyone!!
Thanks everyone for participating, I love to be able to post lots of things! It makes me happy, and one last thing, here is everyone enjoying their grub at Thanksgiving in St. George!
(I was just glad that I didn't take to many trips to the table!)
Friday, December 5, 2008
Friday, November 7, 2008
Octobers Highlights!
Grandpa & Grandma
Family:
There are several new happenings in our lives during the last October. First, we returned to St George for the season on the 16th. It's a couple weeks earlier than previous years but our objective is to stay a little longer than six months in our determination to establish St George as our primary residence. When we sell our St George home in a couple years we can avoid a substantial capital gains tax if the sale involves out principal residence. Other measures are to register our automobiles in Washington County and to register to vote in St George. We have done this and voted early.
We have also felt the pinch of a depressed stock market. This is a paper loss at this point but will be a real loss if we sell stock before it fully recovers.
We appreciate the tremendous help of Ron & Maud Mary and Anne and Niki and Amy in inside and outside work of cleaning our St George home as we begin this new season. We also received help from Kelly and Steph in replacing a piece of siding that apparently blew off sometime before we arrived. All of you are appreciated for the concern and care you provide us in our advanced years. I
can't forget to mention that Grandpa suffered about four weeks of sometimes severe back pain during the past month. It's about 99% over and none too soon.
November 8th is our wedding anniversary. It will be 57 years of togetherness and we've loved every minute. Our love for each other is infinite. We love all of you and wish you the same degree of happiness as we have.
Don't forget our annual garage Thanksgiving and Friday evening Nativity at Tuachan.
Grandma & Grandpa
Ron & Maud Mary Family:
Summer is over!!!!! We are all ready for a rest.
Brent and Melissa's family is doing great. Kolby and Jordan are enjoyingschool. Braden is great except for getting molars which makes him a littlegrouchy. He is also climbing everything. Melissa is always finding him inplaces that he knows he shouldn't be.
Eric and Shannon are doing great too. Eric is busy working on his master'sdegree. Shannon is busy with kids and the new one on the way. Emma lovesschool, Dallin loves preschool, and Lizbeth is starting to talk a lot.
Anne is still trying to buy a house. She has either made a bid or tried tomake a bid on 5 different houses. Not one of them has worked out. I guessthe right house has just not shown up yet.
Karen is doing well in school. She has good roommates this year. She isenjoying her classes. The only problem she has this year is getting on thewrong bus to go back to her apartment. She has taken a few interestingtrips to places that she didn't plan on visiting.
Amy is doing lots of crafts and loving it. She has been a great help aroundthe house and at the Ranch this summer.
Niki is a teacher's aide for a special education class in an elementaryschool. She loves it. She is thinking about going back to school to gether teaching degree so she can teach special education. She still does hairon the side but it has been hard to find a good salon to work at.
Ron and Maud Mary are still doing the same old things. They did enjoy thesummer and the break from regular life. They also enjoyed going to St.George with Mom and Dad and helping them get their house and yard ready forthe winter. They are also excited to go visit for Thanksgiving and enjoyingthe good food, good shopping, good company and the Tuacan show.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!
Dan & Verna Family:
The Higbee family is alive and well. We did have a slight mishap with our car. We were at a stop sign and the airbags with off for no reason. Verna suffered a badly bruised arm and Kara suffered a hurt ear, but otherwise, we survived. Now we have to ask why it would go off when we were at a stop sign but not when I hit a deer a few years ago???? Interesting.
KaRanda continues to play socceer. Davey has been playing county football and his team won the Superbowl Championship. Way to go Davey!!
Halloween was a delightful occasion where even my 16 year daughter went out trick or treating to make up for lost time when she was in China. My little boys dressed up and were really cute.
We will be having our own Thanksgiving in Draper at Grandma's house with Robert, Brandon and John and their families along with our current family. We will miss seeing all of you in ST. George, but until gas prices go way down, that's what happens
Robert & Jamie Family:
Hello Family,Well the Higbee Family is doing good in the little town of Clawson. It is always good to read about everybody, and how things are going in their lives. Jamie put together a blog for our family and everyone is welcome to see it (robertandjamie.blogspot.com). It is great to see so many members creating a blog for themselves.
Well right now things are going good with the kids, Davey got his patriarical blessing a couple of weeks ago and we just got the written version of it and I thought it was interesting the first time around, what an awesome experience for him and for us. For those that haven't received one should seek one out, it can be such a tool to help you mold your life to it's guide lines. I feel very blessed to have such a wonderful child and to hear the things that await for him and for the world. I will express that the second coming is really coming and that we should be teaching our children all that we can to prepare them for the all to really reality of what is to come. Family I know that these children that we are bring into our lives are going to be preparing the world for the second coming and it is our jobs to teach them what they need to know so that we do not stand blameless in front of the Lord. I am grateful for this family, I have been blessed with wonderful examples and our family just keeps growing. I am most of all am grateful for being born into to a family that has set a strong foundation in the gospel. Thank you Mom and Dad, Thank you Aunts and Uncles, and a very big thank you Grandma and Grandpa. The holidays are coming and it reminds me of when we were younger and would meet at grandma and grandpa's house and have turkey and stuffing and vegetable tray and 7 layer Jello and pie galor. All us kids would go down stairs and play games watch movies or just make a lot of noise. And every one would know that it was time to go when Grandpa got out the Vacuum. By the way I use the same trick once in a while, it works.
Sorry we won't be in St.Geroge this year but we will try and make it next year.
Love to you all Robert,Jamie,Davey,Becca,Will,Tristen, and Ty.
Brandon & Suzanne Family:
Happy November to all. We had an eventful October. We took our first real vacation and went to Anaheim. We spent 3 days at Disneyland/California Adventure and a day at Huntington Beach. Grandpa & Grandma, thanks for the use of your home in St George to avoid a long driving day. Keaton did well on the drive but was very talkative. We think he liked getting away more than we did. He was thrilled to watch the Jedi training, the Muppet 3D show and the other acts. He loved all the rides. The parades and fireworks were amazing. Keaton brought home a cup full of seashells because he wanted to give them to his friends. It took us a while to get back to being home again. Brandon is already planning for the next trip in about 3 years. Also this month, we had a nice campfire outing with our neighbors. Keaton enjoyed just hanging out with his friends. Conference was inspiring and full of wise counsel. Halloween was nice and apologies to Karen for missing out on their party. We had made plans for Keaton to go trick or treating with his neighborhood friends. Everyone loved his Pirate costume.
That was October for us. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Gary & Bev Family:
October has gone by with all kinds of fall activites here in AZ. They really like Halloween here! We have been to carnivals, ward activites, and other parties. The last week before Halloween, Maya, Kenyon and Olivia wore their costumes every day to something. They got plenty of use out of them. Check blogs for more info.
At the first of the month we went to UT to visit Riley and family. We had such a good time with them. Even though that was the weekend that it snowed. We even convinced Chelsey and Corbin to miss a day of school to spend the day with us. Gary took Corbin to hit golf balls (which they both love to do) and then to lunch. Chelsey, Bev, & Roxzann (Bev's sister) went shopping (which they love to do) and lunch. It was a fun day.
The next weekend Gary & Bev went to Las Vegas for a get a way. It was fun. We saw Phantomof the Opera and Johnny Mathis We know he is an old singer but going to his concert was one of our first dates. So we try to keep up the tradition of seeing him when ever we can.
Looking forward to seeing all for Thanksgiving in St George. Those that can't make it we will miss you. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Dwayne & Patty Family:
Hal & Diana Family:
Happy Birthday to Trish and to"our Brittany J", both on the same day.Thanks Trish for doing such a great job with this newsletter. Thanks Brittany for just being who you are.
We had a great Halloween. My first time in a long time to go trick or treating. Thanks Paul for letting me come along.I learned something new this month.
While attending a Preschool conference in Provo, I attended a class on Autism and learned all about Joint Attention. Anyone ever heard about that? I am really interesting in learning more. I am working with several students with Autism and I think it's very interesting stuff.
We are planning to be at the annual Thanksgiving Dinner in St. George.We look forward to seeing some of you who we haven't seen for a while.
Jeremy & Laura Family:
We went to Richfield to spend Halloween with Grandma and Grandpa Jensen. Paul loved trick or treating once he got the idea of what was going on. He went up and down grandma's street. He was an elephant.
Things are kind of boring here with us. The most interesting thing that has happened in the last month is that our transmission went out on our corolla and cost too much to repair. So we sold it to the mechanic for what it was worth and Jared and Brittany were nice enough to sell us their old car to help us get through. So now, that little red Grand Prix has been to three of the four Jensen boys. What a great family we have!
Josh & Jessica Family:
We had a great Halloween. The kids loved dressing up and all the candy that they got. Connor was happy as long as he had something in each hand.
We are excited for Thanksgiving and seeing everyone who makes it down to St. George!
The biggest thing that has happened lately was that I was made the Young Women's President in our new ward!?! Josh is really supportive and I haven't been it that long but have really enjoyed it and can't wait to get to know all the girls better.
Josh had a great time deer hunting with his dad and Jared. Thankfully they didn't get anything but still had a great time!
Connor is talking more each day and Kendry is really loving preschool. We are great and hope to hear more from everyone.
Family:
There are several new happenings in our lives during the last October. First, we returned to St George for the season on the 16th. It's a couple weeks earlier than previous years but our objective is to stay a little longer than six months in our determination to establish St George as our primary residence. When we sell our St George home in a couple years we can avoid a substantial capital gains tax if the sale involves out principal residence. Other measures are to register our automobiles in Washington County and to register to vote in St George. We have done this and voted early.
We have also felt the pinch of a depressed stock market. This is a paper loss at this point but will be a real loss if we sell stock before it fully recovers.
We appreciate the tremendous help of Ron & Maud Mary and Anne and Niki and Amy in inside and outside work of cleaning our St George home as we begin this new season. We also received help from Kelly and Steph in replacing a piece of siding that apparently blew off sometime before we arrived. All of you are appreciated for the concern and care you provide us in our advanced years. I
can't forget to mention that Grandpa suffered about four weeks of sometimes severe back pain during the past month. It's about 99% over and none too soon.
November 8th is our wedding anniversary. It will be 57 years of togetherness and we've loved every minute. Our love for each other is infinite. We love all of you and wish you the same degree of happiness as we have.
Don't forget our annual garage Thanksgiving and Friday evening Nativity at Tuachan.
Grandma & Grandpa
Ron & Maud Mary Family:
Summer is over!!!!! We are all ready for a rest.
Brent and Melissa's family is doing great. Kolby and Jordan are enjoyingschool. Braden is great except for getting molars which makes him a littlegrouchy. He is also climbing everything. Melissa is always finding him inplaces that he knows he shouldn't be.
Eric and Shannon are doing great too. Eric is busy working on his master'sdegree. Shannon is busy with kids and the new one on the way. Emma lovesschool, Dallin loves preschool, and Lizbeth is starting to talk a lot.
Anne is still trying to buy a house. She has either made a bid or tried tomake a bid on 5 different houses. Not one of them has worked out. I guessthe right house has just not shown up yet.
Karen is doing well in school. She has good roommates this year. She isenjoying her classes. The only problem she has this year is getting on thewrong bus to go back to her apartment. She has taken a few interestingtrips to places that she didn't plan on visiting.
Amy is doing lots of crafts and loving it. She has been a great help aroundthe house and at the Ranch this summer.
Niki is a teacher's aide for a special education class in an elementaryschool. She loves it. She is thinking about going back to school to gether teaching degree so she can teach special education. She still does hairon the side but it has been hard to find a good salon to work at.
Ron and Maud Mary are still doing the same old things. They did enjoy thesummer and the break from regular life. They also enjoyed going to St.George with Mom and Dad and helping them get their house and yard ready forthe winter. They are also excited to go visit for Thanksgiving and enjoyingthe good food, good shopping, good company and the Tuacan show.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!
Dan & Verna Family:
The Higbee family is alive and well. We did have a slight mishap with our car. We were at a stop sign and the airbags with off for no reason. Verna suffered a badly bruised arm and Kara suffered a hurt ear, but otherwise, we survived. Now we have to ask why it would go off when we were at a stop sign but not when I hit a deer a few years ago???? Interesting.
KaRanda continues to play socceer. Davey has been playing county football and his team won the Superbowl Championship. Way to go Davey!!
Halloween was a delightful occasion where even my 16 year daughter went out trick or treating to make up for lost time when she was in China. My little boys dressed up and were really cute.
We will be having our own Thanksgiving in Draper at Grandma's house with Robert, Brandon and John and their families along with our current family. We will miss seeing all of you in ST. George, but until gas prices go way down, that's what happens
Robert & Jamie Family:
Hello Family,Well the Higbee Family is doing good in the little town of Clawson. It is always good to read about everybody, and how things are going in their lives. Jamie put together a blog for our family and everyone is welcome to see it (robertandjamie.blogspot.com). It is great to see so many members creating a blog for themselves.
Well right now things are going good with the kids, Davey got his patriarical blessing a couple of weeks ago and we just got the written version of it and I thought it was interesting the first time around, what an awesome experience for him and for us. For those that haven't received one should seek one out, it can be such a tool to help you mold your life to it's guide lines. I feel very blessed to have such a wonderful child and to hear the things that await for him and for the world. I will express that the second coming is really coming and that we should be teaching our children all that we can to prepare them for the all to really reality of what is to come. Family I know that these children that we are bring into our lives are going to be preparing the world for the second coming and it is our jobs to teach them what they need to know so that we do not stand blameless in front of the Lord. I am grateful for this family, I have been blessed with wonderful examples and our family just keeps growing. I am most of all am grateful for being born into to a family that has set a strong foundation in the gospel. Thank you Mom and Dad, Thank you Aunts and Uncles, and a very big thank you Grandma and Grandpa. The holidays are coming and it reminds me of when we were younger and would meet at grandma and grandpa's house and have turkey and stuffing and vegetable tray and 7 layer Jello and pie galor. All us kids would go down stairs and play games watch movies or just make a lot of noise. And every one would know that it was time to go when Grandpa got out the Vacuum. By the way I use the same trick once in a while, it works.
Sorry we won't be in St.Geroge this year but we will try and make it next year.
Love to you all Robert,Jamie,Davey,Becca,Will,Tristen, and Ty.
Brandon & Suzanne Family:
Happy November to all. We had an eventful October. We took our first real vacation and went to Anaheim. We spent 3 days at Disneyland/California Adventure and a day at Huntington Beach. Grandpa & Grandma, thanks for the use of your home in St George to avoid a long driving day. Keaton did well on the drive but was very talkative. We think he liked getting away more than we did. He was thrilled to watch the Jedi training, the Muppet 3D show and the other acts. He loved all the rides. The parades and fireworks were amazing. Keaton brought home a cup full of seashells because he wanted to give them to his friends. It took us a while to get back to being home again. Brandon is already planning for the next trip in about 3 years. Also this month, we had a nice campfire outing with our neighbors. Keaton enjoyed just hanging out with his friends. Conference was inspiring and full of wise counsel. Halloween was nice and apologies to Karen for missing out on their party. We had made plans for Keaton to go trick or treating with his neighborhood friends. Everyone loved his Pirate costume.
That was October for us. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Gary & Bev Family:
October has gone by with all kinds of fall activites here in AZ. They really like Halloween here! We have been to carnivals, ward activites, and other parties. The last week before Halloween, Maya, Kenyon and Olivia wore their costumes every day to something. They got plenty of use out of them. Check blogs for more info.
At the first of the month we went to UT to visit Riley and family. We had such a good time with them. Even though that was the weekend that it snowed. We even convinced Chelsey and Corbin to miss a day of school to spend the day with us. Gary took Corbin to hit golf balls (which they both love to do) and then to lunch. Chelsey, Bev, & Roxzann (Bev's sister) went shopping (which they love to do) and lunch. It was a fun day.
The next weekend Gary & Bev went to Las Vegas for a get a way. It was fun. We saw Phantomof the Opera and Johnny Mathis We know he is an old singer but going to his concert was one of our first dates. So we try to keep up the tradition of seeing him when ever we can.
Looking forward to seeing all for Thanksgiving in St George. Those that can't make it we will miss you. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Dwayne & Patty Family:
Hal & Diana Family:
Happy Birthday to Trish and to"our Brittany J", both on the same day.Thanks Trish for doing such a great job with this newsletter. Thanks Brittany for just being who you are.
We had a great Halloween. My first time in a long time to go trick or treating. Thanks Paul for letting me come along.I learned something new this month.
While attending a Preschool conference in Provo, I attended a class on Autism and learned all about Joint Attention. Anyone ever heard about that? I am really interesting in learning more. I am working with several students with Autism and I think it's very interesting stuff.
We are planning to be at the annual Thanksgiving Dinner in St. George.We look forward to seeing some of you who we haven't seen for a while.
Jeremy & Laura Family:
We went to Richfield to spend Halloween with Grandma and Grandpa Jensen. Paul loved trick or treating once he got the idea of what was going on. He went up and down grandma's street. He was an elephant.
Things are kind of boring here with us. The most interesting thing that has happened in the last month is that our transmission went out on our corolla and cost too much to repair. So we sold it to the mechanic for what it was worth and Jared and Brittany were nice enough to sell us their old car to help us get through. So now, that little red Grand Prix has been to three of the four Jensen boys. What a great family we have!
Josh & Jessica Family:
We had a great Halloween. The kids loved dressing up and all the candy that they got. Connor was happy as long as he had something in each hand.
We are excited for Thanksgiving and seeing everyone who makes it down to St. George!
The biggest thing that has happened lately was that I was made the Young Women's President in our new ward!?! Josh is really supportive and I haven't been it that long but have really enjoyed it and can't wait to get to know all the girls better.
Josh had a great time deer hunting with his dad and Jared. Thankfully they didn't get anything but still had a great time!
Connor is talking more each day and Kendry is really loving preschool. We are great and hope to hear more from everyone.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Octobers news from September!
Grandpa & Grandma:
Ron & Maud Mary Family:
Dan & Verna Family:
Brandon & Suzanne Family:
Hello family, we hope everyone is healthy and doing well. We can't seem to remember what we did at the beginning of September but it ended going to the Circus. We went with our neighbors and had a very good time. It was Brandon and Keaton's first circus experience. Keaton loves playing with his clown nose. Now that Summer is officially over Suzanne and Keaton are going to miss their outings with friends. Wheeler farm has been a favorite place to go. Speaking of outings, we spent a family home evening at the church history museum and invited our neighbors to join us. The kids enjoyed the children's section and picnicking in the park. That's it for September, we wish everyone a nice and safe Halloween!
John & Elizabeth Family:
John, Liz and Sara Higbee
We have finally gotten with the times and decided to start with the family blogging. So much has happened with our family in the last few months; some good and some not so good. Last July we sold our house in South Jordan and our Play N' Trade Video Games franchise along with our 3 cell phones stores in Las Vegas. While we were looking for a new house, we moved in with my mom in Orem for 2 months. Now let me say, I love my mom dearly but it just wasn't the most ideal circumstances to be living in for a family of three (namely, the basement). I am happy to announce that we have found a new home in Saratoga Springs behind Utah Lake and we love it here!
Sara started kindergarten in August and she is completely loving it. She even takes the bus by herself (I was very tempted to join her to school on that first bus ride but I refrained). Sara is learning so much already! It is astonishing seeing how much she really understands after such a short time. We are lucky she has such an awesome teacher.
We have also adopted a new member to our family.....a 1 year old Doberman Pincher puppy. Her name is Bella and she is the best dog ever! She is already a perfect addition to our crazy family. She and Sara are nearly inseparable now. I had issues getting Sara up in the morning (even after 12 hours of sleep sometimes! We already have a teenager, it seems.). Now that's Bella's job and Sara wakes up bright eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to play with her.
On a few sad notes, at the middle of July, I miscarried while moving from our South Jordan house. That was such a stressful time in our lives with selling the business, selling our home and moving, and me being tired and sick all the time from pregnancy. The doctor has given we a clean bill of health, thankfully! While we were living with my mom in Orem and researching business potential, I received a call on August 23rd from my cousin in Las Vegas telling me that my father had passed away. That was pretty much the worst moment in my life. I was very close to my dad. Sara and John were too. We gave Sara her own cell phone about 8 months ago just so she could call him and she did almost every single day. To make things more dramatic, my father had a son that he hadn't talked to in almost 30 years in Chicago. I finally met my oldest brother recently(I have another brother in Park City that I'm really close to) for the first time. Pretty crazy stuff. Things are finally getting a little easier. Thank you to everyone that has offered their prayers and condolences.
We are excited for this holiday season and really looking forward to seeing all of you soon!
Liz
Gary & Bev Family
Riley & Tricia Family:
This last month has been a very fun and exciting/crazy one for our family! There has been a lot going on. I have been very busy with the PTA and my bully program. (You can see me with Fox 13 Big Budah on my blog!) And just trying to keep everyone in our home happy, healthy and alive!
Riley has been working very hard, but that is really nothing new! He is always a very hard worker and I am always greatful for him.
Chelsey started Fall Ball and has her last game on Tuesday. She played 14 games, and some times she played 2 games in one night, so it went pretty quick!
Corbin is a great kid! He is working very hard in school and adjusting to 1st grade! His teacher stopped me the other day to tell me what a great kid he is, I am so proud of him!
Keegan and I are conquering the potty monster! He had a great day yesterday and today! But, he only wants Riley to take him potty, it could be a long week for Riley when I am calling him home every 30 minutes to take Keegan potty!!! We will see what tomorrow brings!
Kaylix is growing up so much. He likes to point at things and scream. So I have been teaching him to say please. He can actually say it, after I remind him a few times. He is a cute little stinker!
Well, we are all doing great and looking forward to Halloween and all the festivities, and to Grandma Bev and Grandpa Gary coming to visit us this week! We can hardly wait to see them, the kids already want to know if they have to go to school while they are here! We just tell them we will see, it might be worth missing a day for!
Jeremy & Britany Family:
I never send anything because I figure you know all about me from my blog. So I have thought and thought about something I could share that would be superb. All I came up with is my favorite, simple pumpkin chocolate chip cookies recipe. Happy Fall!
1 box of spice cake mix1 bag of chocolate chips1 15 oz can of pumpkin pie filling
Mix together and bake for 18-20 minutes on 350 degrees
(My friend that gave this to me said this is a great food storage recipe - we just added these three ingredients big time to ours! We can live on pumpkin chocolate chip cookies all 3 meals, right? :)
Dwayne & Patty Family:
Dwayne and Patty: Not much going on. Staying busy with work and church callings. Had Todd, Jade, Steph and Heather come up this past weekend.
Ben and Alissa: Things are the same with them, they are busy with work and keeping up with "Dr. Jacob Wilkinson"
Todd and Jade: They are getting ready for the arrival of Ryder who is due Nov.26.
Steph: Has made the move from California to St. George.
Heather: Is busy with school, work and her social life.
Ben& Alissa Family:
Hello All-
As you know I've been hard at work the last 9 or so months putting together a business plan and business model for my new venture. At long last, I'm happy to introduce you to Absolute Convergence:
http://www.absoluteconvergence.com/
As most of you know, we are currently in the middle of our seed funding round. We've been successful in raising quite a bit of capital, and have even gained a few clients. While we're not patting ourselves on the back yet, our company has come quite a long way in a short amount of time. Given the current macro-economic environment that we find ourselves in, it is all the reason more to be proud of our work so far.
Please take a look at the website. It gives you a good idea of who we are and what we do. As always, I welcome your feedback.
Hope all is well.
Ben
Hal & Diana Family:
Hi from the Jensen's
Were all doing great. We are building a garage in our backyard. This has been a big project but thanks to family members who have given up there time, gotten off work, and spent many hours in the hot sun, it is happening. Thanks so much for your help family..Those who couldn't get off work, we know your thoughts are with us., You are always welcome. I hope Grandpa and Grandma or Mom and Dad to us, share their experiences riding on the four wheelers. It was a great weekend . The reward for riding in the wind and dust was lots of beautiful scenery.As far as we know, the rest of the Jensen clan is all healthy and happy. Jessica will be participating in the big St George Marathon on Oct 4. We wish her the best. Both Laura and Brittany are now into their third trimester and looking forward to having their babies in Dec. Steph is working for a Physical therapist and would love to have you stop by and let her work on you.Preschool is still crazy and Hal is staying very busy with work and church stuff.This is a great time of the year.
Josh & Jessica Family:
We are doing great! I ran my marathon today and it went great but if you really want all the details then you can check out our blog.
Josh is getting excited for the deer hunt and is ready to let his beard grow out so that is great! The kids are growing like weeds and getting way to smart for us.
I'm a little tired out from the run so this isn't much but maybe I will send more tomorrow!
Kelly & Stephanee:
Hi, this is stephanee jensen....Kelly's wife. I just wanted to add something to next months newsletter if i could :) I am going to go private with my blog...so if anyone wants to still look at it, email me at smilin_babe230@yahoo.com
This is the last day of September. the weather is warm. We are fine.
On the 16 of October, we will leave for St. George.
I am out of inspiration today. I will continue my story.
When Gerald finished his radio training in Camp Roberts, he received his orders to go Fecom. That meant he would be sent to Korea. There were two orders given at that time. one was Eucom which meant Europe, The other was Fecom which was Korea. You remember, The Korean conflict had begun while he was on his mission. We packed up and went back to Salt Lake To take me to my parent's home.We found a ride with two other soldiers who were going to Utah. Gerald had two weeks furlough before he had to report in before he left for Korea. I was pregnant and so I didn't work. This was a tough period in my life. I didn't know where he was. I knew he was getting 4 points a month. He needed 36 points before he could come home.4 points was given to those who were in dangerous zones. The newspaper would report on the casualties. I would worry. Our only communication were letters. Sometimes I would wait a long time for letters, then several would come. In February Ron was born. We sent Gerald a telegram, but it was two weeks before he received it. Finally I received a letter that said he was on his way home. I found an apartment in the avenues and waited. One morning I was Bathing Ron in the bathtub, the phone rang. I grabbed Ron and heard Gerald's voice saying he would be home. He was in California. He had been gone about 11 months. Tune in next time for more of my exciting story. Those of you who are coming to Thanksgiving, think of some type of activity we can do for Thanksgiving afternoon. The ballgame watchers will have to use the den. We look forward to seeing all of you.
Grandma, Mom etc
Ron & Maud Mary Family:
Dan & Verna Family:
Brandon & Suzanne Family:
Hello family, we hope everyone is healthy and doing well. We can't seem to remember what we did at the beginning of September but it ended going to the Circus. We went with our neighbors and had a very good time. It was Brandon and Keaton's first circus experience. Keaton loves playing with his clown nose. Now that Summer is officially over Suzanne and Keaton are going to miss their outings with friends. Wheeler farm has been a favorite place to go. Speaking of outings, we spent a family home evening at the church history museum and invited our neighbors to join us. The kids enjoyed the children's section and picnicking in the park. That's it for September, we wish everyone a nice and safe Halloween!
John & Elizabeth Family:
John, Liz and Sara Higbee
We have finally gotten with the times and decided to start with the family blogging. So much has happened with our family in the last few months; some good and some not so good. Last July we sold our house in South Jordan and our Play N' Trade Video Games franchise along with our 3 cell phones stores in Las Vegas. While we were looking for a new house, we moved in with my mom in Orem for 2 months. Now let me say, I love my mom dearly but it just wasn't the most ideal circumstances to be living in for a family of three (namely, the basement). I am happy to announce that we have found a new home in Saratoga Springs behind Utah Lake and we love it here!
Sara started kindergarten in August and she is completely loving it. She even takes the bus by herself (I was very tempted to join her to school on that first bus ride but I refrained). Sara is learning so much already! It is astonishing seeing how much she really understands after such a short time. We are lucky she has such an awesome teacher.
We have also adopted a new member to our family.....a 1 year old Doberman Pincher puppy. Her name is Bella and she is the best dog ever! She is already a perfect addition to our crazy family. She and Sara are nearly inseparable now. I had issues getting Sara up in the morning (even after 12 hours of sleep sometimes! We already have a teenager, it seems.). Now that's Bella's job and Sara wakes up bright eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to play with her.
On a few sad notes, at the middle of July, I miscarried while moving from our South Jordan house. That was such a stressful time in our lives with selling the business, selling our home and moving, and me being tired and sick all the time from pregnancy. The doctor has given we a clean bill of health, thankfully! While we were living with my mom in Orem and researching business potential, I received a call on August 23rd from my cousin in Las Vegas telling me that my father had passed away. That was pretty much the worst moment in my life. I was very close to my dad. Sara and John were too. We gave Sara her own cell phone about 8 months ago just so she could call him and she did almost every single day. To make things more dramatic, my father had a son that he hadn't talked to in almost 30 years in Chicago. I finally met my oldest brother recently(I have another brother in Park City that I'm really close to) for the first time. Pretty crazy stuff. Things are finally getting a little easier. Thank you to everyone that has offered their prayers and condolences.
We are excited for this holiday season and really looking forward to seeing all of you soon!
Liz
Gary & Bev Family
Riley & Tricia Family:
This last month has been a very fun and exciting/crazy one for our family! There has been a lot going on. I have been very busy with the PTA and my bully program. (You can see me with Fox 13 Big Budah on my blog!) And just trying to keep everyone in our home happy, healthy and alive!
Riley has been working very hard, but that is really nothing new! He is always a very hard worker and I am always greatful for him.
Chelsey started Fall Ball and has her last game on Tuesday. She played 14 games, and some times she played 2 games in one night, so it went pretty quick!
Corbin is a great kid! He is working very hard in school and adjusting to 1st grade! His teacher stopped me the other day to tell me what a great kid he is, I am so proud of him!
Keegan and I are conquering the potty monster! He had a great day yesterday and today! But, he only wants Riley to take him potty, it could be a long week for Riley when I am calling him home every 30 minutes to take Keegan potty!!! We will see what tomorrow brings!
Kaylix is growing up so much. He likes to point at things and scream. So I have been teaching him to say please. He can actually say it, after I remind him a few times. He is a cute little stinker!
Well, we are all doing great and looking forward to Halloween and all the festivities, and to Grandma Bev and Grandpa Gary coming to visit us this week! We can hardly wait to see them, the kids already want to know if they have to go to school while they are here! We just tell them we will see, it might be worth missing a day for!
Jeremy & Britany Family:
I never send anything because I figure you know all about me from my blog. So I have thought and thought about something I could share that would be superb. All I came up with is my favorite, simple pumpkin chocolate chip cookies recipe. Happy Fall!
1 box of spice cake mix1 bag of chocolate chips1 15 oz can of pumpkin pie filling
Mix together and bake for 18-20 minutes on 350 degrees
(My friend that gave this to me said this is a great food storage recipe - we just added these three ingredients big time to ours! We can live on pumpkin chocolate chip cookies all 3 meals, right? :)
Dwayne & Patty Family:
Dwayne and Patty: Not much going on. Staying busy with work and church callings. Had Todd, Jade, Steph and Heather come up this past weekend.
Ben and Alissa: Things are the same with them, they are busy with work and keeping up with "Dr. Jacob Wilkinson"
Todd and Jade: They are getting ready for the arrival of Ryder who is due Nov.26.
Steph: Has made the move from California to St. George.
Heather: Is busy with school, work and her social life.
Ben& Alissa Family:
Hello All-
As you know I've been hard at work the last 9 or so months putting together a business plan and business model for my new venture. At long last, I'm happy to introduce you to Absolute Convergence:
http://www.absoluteconvergence.com/
As most of you know, we are currently in the middle of our seed funding round. We've been successful in raising quite a bit of capital, and have even gained a few clients. While we're not patting ourselves on the back yet, our company has come quite a long way in a short amount of time. Given the current macro-economic environment that we find ourselves in, it is all the reason more to be proud of our work so far.
Please take a look at the website. It gives you a good idea of who we are and what we do. As always, I welcome your feedback.
Hope all is well.
Ben
Hal & Diana Family:
Hi from the Jensen's
Were all doing great. We are building a garage in our backyard. This has been a big project but thanks to family members who have given up there time, gotten off work, and spent many hours in the hot sun, it is happening. Thanks so much for your help family..Those who couldn't get off work, we know your thoughts are with us., You are always welcome. I hope Grandpa and Grandma or Mom and Dad to us, share their experiences riding on the four wheelers. It was a great weekend . The reward for riding in the wind and dust was lots of beautiful scenery.As far as we know, the rest of the Jensen clan is all healthy and happy. Jessica will be participating in the big St George Marathon on Oct 4. We wish her the best. Both Laura and Brittany are now into their third trimester and looking forward to having their babies in Dec. Steph is working for a Physical therapist and would love to have you stop by and let her work on you.Preschool is still crazy and Hal is staying very busy with work and church stuff.This is a great time of the year.
Josh & Jessica Family:
We are doing great! I ran my marathon today and it went great but if you really want all the details then you can check out our blog.
Josh is getting excited for the deer hunt and is ready to let his beard grow out so that is great! The kids are growing like weeds and getting way to smart for us.
I'm a little tired out from the run so this isn't much but maybe I will send more tomorrow!
Kelly & Stephanee:
Hi, this is stephanee jensen....Kelly's wife. I just wanted to add something to next months newsletter if i could :) I am going to go private with my blog...so if anyone wants to still look at it, email me at smilin_babe230@yahoo.com
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
September is back to school!
Grandma and Grandpa:
Hal and Diana Family:
What did you do for your summer vacation? by Diana Wilkinson Jensen
Once upon a time it was summer., then Aug 1st hit. That was the end of doing whatever I wanted. Now I am on "School District time".First there was Law Conference, then just as soon as I got back, it was hurry to get my classroom ready. There were letters to send to parents, a room that had to be re-put back together.(Janitors clean then just walk away and figure someone else can move it back) lists to be made, lesson plains to write,a bus list to figure out, and I can't forget those special IEP meetings. If you do not know what an IEP meeting is, ask someone in the Special Ed department even better, go to one sometime, they are loads of laughs.Then the first day of school came, after spending several Saturdays and many extra weekdays, I was ready. Those little tike's came in and the phone started to ring. " I want to have my little tike in your school," how do I put her in? The numbers started to grow and grow and grow. Now my cute little class is growing and still we had to have a childfind. What's a childfind you ask? It's a day where we test all kids in the community to see if they qualify for school. Yes, there are many out there who need a little bit of help.Well that's where I am now, wondering how to fit so many bodies in one classroom, Did I forget to mention that next Tuesday the Mainstream start?Who are the Mainstream you ask?. They are those who pay to come to school because they don't qualify but are suppose to be good models for those who qualify. I will start 12 of them on Tuesday.But Aug wasn't all bad, Josh came and brought his kids, He took McKendry fishing while I got to know Connor a little bit more. (A real sweetheart).then Kelly and Steph dropped in one weekend, that was fun to see them, and this past weekend we were able to go visit with Jared and Brittany and spend some time with them. They now live across from Hillcrest High if anyone wants to say hi. Also, we spent time with Mom and Dad or grandparent Wilkinson for you young people. Did you guys know that they have something new in their bathroom downstairs? Go visit them and check it out. I'm not telling what it is, you have to visit them.We also stopped in on Jeremy and Laura and cute little Paul. Yes it was a fun weekend but now it's time for Summer to end and Sept to start. We are all well and by the way, did I mention we are building a garage in the backyard? Oh that is for another time and another newsletter.
The end
Jeremy and Laura and Family:
We are having a girl. (we don't remember if we already said something)
School starts after labor day.
Everyone working, in school, or in daycare ALL day until mid December. :(
-jeremy and laura
Josh and Jessica Family:
We have had a great summer but are looking forward to the fall and the awesome weather that comes with it. It's our reward for making it through the summer down here. McKendry started preschool and is loving it and learning lots. Her hair is slowly growing out and I have been able to put some ponytails in it so that is a big plus. Connor is starting to talk a little more. Both the kids love to watch Max and Ruby and Connor will wave his hands in the air when it comes on. Jess is still training for the marathon and is excited for it to be over. I am still working and getting excited for the deer hunt. That's about it for our family!
Editor Note:
I am not going to beg, ok, well, maybe I will . . . I really want everyone to participate in the newsletter. I know that sometimes it seems like we just did it and here I am asking for more updates again!!! But, even if you just say, Hi, we're happy and healthy. Or send a recipe or a picture or something, just fill in the space below your name!!
I really appreciate everyone that has and did send me stuff!
Grandma and Grandpa, I hope that you are OK, it is not like you to not send me something, I usually get yours without even asking!!!
So, please everyone, just play along!!!!
Thanks!
Today I am going to tell you about this picture. Our day to day living is for the most part boring to your lives. Older people sometimes live in the past. I really am not living in the past. This is to tell you about our lives.
This picture was taken in Paso Robles California.
When Gerald and I had been married two months, he was inducted into the Army. On that morning he went to Fort Douglas. I went up there with him for the day. At night he went by train to Ft. Lewis Washington to begin his training. He was later sent to Camp Roberts in California. After his basic training, I went with another soldier’s wife to find a room in Paso de Robles. We didn’t own a car, Later Gerald was able to live off the base. We found a room in a house where we shared the bathroom and had no kitchen. . Rooms were at a premium. The whole town was full of young married couples that had been married only a few months there was even a line-up to find a room. Apartments were scarce. The local LDS meetings were held in a Woman’s club. Gerald went with a carpool to base each morning. On one such morning he got up and walked to the corner to meet his carpool at 4:30 A M. I rolled over to go back to sleep, the bed didn’t stop moving. I froze in fear. The mirror on the dresser was moving back and forth. There was a loud rumbling on the front porch which sounded like a herd of horses I surmised there was an earthquake. When the light of day appeared, I went to the local store to hear conversation and to verify what I suspected. Yes it was true. The earthquake was in a town close to Bakersfield. The local bank had a crack in the wall. The noise on the front porch was from wheelchairs rocking back and forth. This home had been a rest home at one time. Gerald was walking and didn’t even feel the earthquake. There were many tremors after that. When I felt the bed move under my legs, I wasn’t sure if it was real or not. I would always wait to see if there had been a real aftershock. Such was the life in the army. This picture was taken in front of the house where we had our room.
This picture was taken in Paso Robles California.
When Gerald and I had been married two months, he was inducted into the Army. On that morning he went to Fort Douglas. I went up there with him for the day. At night he went by train to Ft. Lewis Washington to begin his training. He was later sent to Camp Roberts in California. After his basic training, I went with another soldier’s wife to find a room in Paso de Robles. We didn’t own a car, Later Gerald was able to live off the base. We found a room in a house where we shared the bathroom and had no kitchen. . Rooms were at a premium. The whole town was full of young married couples that had been married only a few months there was even a line-up to find a room. Apartments were scarce. The local LDS meetings were held in a Woman’s club. Gerald went with a carpool to base each morning. On one such morning he got up and walked to the corner to meet his carpool at 4:30 A M. I rolled over to go back to sleep, the bed didn’t stop moving. I froze in fear. The mirror on the dresser was moving back and forth. There was a loud rumbling on the front porch which sounded like a herd of horses I surmised there was an earthquake. When the light of day appeared, I went to the local store to hear conversation and to verify what I suspected. Yes it was true. The earthquake was in a town close to Bakersfield. The local bank had a crack in the wall. The noise on the front porch was from wheelchairs rocking back and forth. This home had been a rest home at one time. Gerald was walking and didn’t even feel the earthquake. There were many tremors after that. When I felt the bed move under my legs, I wasn’t sure if it was real or not. I would always wait to see if there had been a real aftershock. Such was the life in the army. This picture was taken in front of the house where we had our room.
Due to technical difficulties, the above picture is different.
Ron and Maud Mary Family:
Brent, Melissa & Boys:
We’ve had an exciting month! On the 7th Brent and I celebrated 10 years of marriage. Elf turned 1 on the 8th. On the 9th we went to the temple to have Elf sealed to our family. What a beautiful experience to be in the temple with our children and our loved ones! We also celebrated Elf’s birthday that evening. Thanks to those that supported us, whether by attending that day or being there in spirit! Then on the 10th we blessed Elf in church! Whew! Very busy few days but SO WORTH IT!! We enjoyed our last couple of weeks of summer break and now the older boys have started school, Bear in 3rd grade and Bug in all day kindergarten. They both LOVE their teachers and are excited for the school year. Brent is just doing his usual WORK WORK WORK and as for me it is a little quieter around the house during the day, but don’t worry there is plenty to fill my days!
Dan and Verna Family:
Yes, school has begun for us. Verna is back at school, Anthony, is at daycare, :(, and the girls are loving the social life once more. Tanya is on the tennis team, pep band, and is working at Stewarts (grocery store) in between times. Dan is also back after a one week break, and is going strong in college.
In other news from our family, John and Liz miscarried which was sad, but she is doing better now. Liz's father passed away from a heart attack a few weeks ago, so they flew to Las Vegas to help with the arrangements. Meanwhile, Sara is in kindergarten and is due to start tennis lessons soon. They are now living with Liz's mother in Orem.
Verna & Dan
Brandon Suzanne and Keaton:
Hello Family! We had an exciting August. We went real camping (no flush toilet) this month with some friends. Keaton quite enjoyed exploring nature with his friend. We also went on a mini-hike and he loved seeing the Great Salt Lake from so high up.
Suzanne and Keaton went to the Salt Lake County Fair with our neighbor friends and Keaton loved the petting zoo. Suzanne wanted to introduce our neighbor friend to the missionaries but the friend ran when she saw them.
Brandon and Suzanne finally caught Prince Caspian in the theater and Brandon got to watch Batman on the IMAX screen.Suzanne had another milestone birthday and Brandon endured through MAMMA MIA for her (He actually liked it and has become a fan of ABBA Gold). Suzanne's parents took Keaton for an overnight slumber party and after the days activities Brandon and Suzanne decided to just drive home and sleep in our own bed. It was weird but amazingly nice not having anyone in the other room. We also quietly celebrated our 4years together (Big Celebration has been moved to October).
Brandon and Keaton continues to frequent Lowes kids crafts and loves the school locker and GMC truck they made this month. We wish everyone a September to remember and hope all are doing well. Kellen, congrats on Law School!
Gary and Bev Family:
Gary and Bev doing Ok! Kellen and Camille are getting settled in and getting use to living in AZ. Kellen started law school and is very busy Camille is working part time at Wells fargo bank close to our house.
Riley and Tricia are excited that school is back in, summer seemed a little long this year! Chelsey and Corbin both love their teachers and it has been a great start to what they hope to be a great year!! They have been busy doing work on their house in their little amount of free time!
Brit and Jeremy are just busy! Maya started pre school, dancing, & a music class. Kenyon just follows along.
Dwayne and Patty Family:
Dwayne and Patty: We went to San Francisco the first week of Aug. to visit with Ben, Alissa, and Jacob. We were afraid that Jacob wouldn't remember us. But we were greated at the airport with HI Grandpa and Grandma. We had a great time with them. We went to Pier 39, and Half Moon Bay ( which was cold that day ). Jacob and Grandpa had fun playing with Dinosaurs together, while Grandma was able to give Jacob his baths and read to him.
Brent, Melissa & Boys:
We’ve had an exciting month! On the 7th Brent and I celebrated 10 years of marriage. Elf turned 1 on the 8th. On the 9th we went to the temple to have Elf sealed to our family. What a beautiful experience to be in the temple with our children and our loved ones! We also celebrated Elf’s birthday that evening. Thanks to those that supported us, whether by attending that day or being there in spirit! Then on the 10th we blessed Elf in church! Whew! Very busy few days but SO WORTH IT!! We enjoyed our last couple of weeks of summer break and now the older boys have started school, Bear in 3rd grade and Bug in all day kindergarten. They both LOVE their teachers and are excited for the school year. Brent is just doing his usual WORK WORK WORK and as for me it is a little quieter around the house during the day, but don’t worry there is plenty to fill my days!
Dan and Verna Family:
Yes, school has begun for us. Verna is back at school, Anthony, is at daycare, :(, and the girls are loving the social life once more. Tanya is on the tennis team, pep band, and is working at Stewarts (grocery store) in between times. Dan is also back after a one week break, and is going strong in college.
In other news from our family, John and Liz miscarried which was sad, but she is doing better now. Liz's father passed away from a heart attack a few weeks ago, so they flew to Las Vegas to help with the arrangements. Meanwhile, Sara is in kindergarten and is due to start tennis lessons soon. They are now living with Liz's mother in Orem.
Verna & Dan
Brandon Suzanne and Keaton:
Hello Family! We had an exciting August. We went real camping (no flush toilet) this month with some friends. Keaton quite enjoyed exploring nature with his friend. We also went on a mini-hike and he loved seeing the Great Salt Lake from so high up.
Suzanne and Keaton went to the Salt Lake County Fair with our neighbor friends and Keaton loved the petting zoo. Suzanne wanted to introduce our neighbor friend to the missionaries but the friend ran when she saw them.
Brandon and Suzanne finally caught Prince Caspian in the theater and Brandon got to watch Batman on the IMAX screen.Suzanne had another milestone birthday and Brandon endured through MAMMA MIA for her (He actually liked it and has become a fan of ABBA Gold). Suzanne's parents took Keaton for an overnight slumber party and after the days activities Brandon and Suzanne decided to just drive home and sleep in our own bed. It was weird but amazingly nice not having anyone in the other room. We also quietly celebrated our 4years together (Big Celebration has been moved to October).
Brandon and Keaton continues to frequent Lowes kids crafts and loves the school locker and GMC truck they made this month. We wish everyone a September to remember and hope all are doing well. Kellen, congrats on Law School!
Gary and Bev Family:
Gary and Bev doing Ok! Kellen and Camille are getting settled in and getting use to living in AZ. Kellen started law school and is very busy Camille is working part time at Wells fargo bank close to our house.
Riley and Tricia are excited that school is back in, summer seemed a little long this year! Chelsey and Corbin both love their teachers and it has been a great start to what they hope to be a great year!! They have been busy doing work on their house in their little amount of free time!
Brit and Jeremy are just busy! Maya started pre school, dancing, & a music class. Kenyon just follows along.
Dwayne and Patty Family:
Dwayne and Patty: We went to San Francisco the first week of Aug. to visit with Ben, Alissa, and Jacob. We were afraid that Jacob wouldn't remember us. But we were greated at the airport with HI Grandpa and Grandma. We had a great time with them. We went to Pier 39, and Half Moon Bay ( which was cold that day ). Jacob and Grandpa had fun playing with Dinosaurs together, while Grandma was able to give Jacob his baths and read to him.
Ben and Alissa: Are staying busy with work and Jacob, and being tour guides to us while we were there. Jacob loves pointing out Police cars, and fire trucks.
Todd and Jade: Todd has started his final year of school and can hardly wait for May to arrive when he will graduate. They are having a boy in November and his name will be Ryder. We are very excited for them!
Steph: Is planning on moving to St. George sometime in the fall. We are excited to have her closer to us and Heather and Jade are excited to have her join them to watch One Tree Hill on Monday nights.
Heather: Has started school at Dixie. She has made good friends and stays busy with school, work and friends, and coming home every so often to visit us.
Hal and Diana Family:
What did you do for your summer vacation? by Diana Wilkinson Jensen
Once upon a time it was summer., then Aug 1st hit. That was the end of doing whatever I wanted. Now I am on "School District time".First there was Law Conference, then just as soon as I got back, it was hurry to get my classroom ready. There were letters to send to parents, a room that had to be re-put back together.(Janitors clean then just walk away and figure someone else can move it back) lists to be made, lesson plains to write,a bus list to figure out, and I can't forget those special IEP meetings. If you do not know what an IEP meeting is, ask someone in the Special Ed department even better, go to one sometime, they are loads of laughs.Then the first day of school came, after spending several Saturdays and many extra weekdays, I was ready. Those little tike's came in and the phone started to ring. " I want to have my little tike in your school," how do I put her in? The numbers started to grow and grow and grow. Now my cute little class is growing and still we had to have a childfind. What's a childfind you ask? It's a day where we test all kids in the community to see if they qualify for school. Yes, there are many out there who need a little bit of help.Well that's where I am now, wondering how to fit so many bodies in one classroom, Did I forget to mention that next Tuesday the Mainstream start?Who are the Mainstream you ask?. They are those who pay to come to school because they don't qualify but are suppose to be good models for those who qualify. I will start 12 of them on Tuesday.But Aug wasn't all bad, Josh came and brought his kids, He took McKendry fishing while I got to know Connor a little bit more. (A real sweetheart).then Kelly and Steph dropped in one weekend, that was fun to see them, and this past weekend we were able to go visit with Jared and Brittany and spend some time with them. They now live across from Hillcrest High if anyone wants to say hi. Also, we spent time with Mom and Dad or grandparent Wilkinson for you young people. Did you guys know that they have something new in their bathroom downstairs? Go visit them and check it out. I'm not telling what it is, you have to visit them.We also stopped in on Jeremy and Laura and cute little Paul. Yes it was a fun weekend but now it's time for Summer to end and Sept to start. We are all well and by the way, did I mention we are building a garage in the backyard? Oh that is for another time and another newsletter.
The end
Jeremy and Laura and Family:
We are having a girl. (we don't remember if we already said something)
School starts after labor day.
Everyone working, in school, or in daycare ALL day until mid December. :(
-jeremy and laura
Josh and Jessica Family:
We have had a great summer but are looking forward to the fall and the awesome weather that comes with it. It's our reward for making it through the summer down here. McKendry started preschool and is loving it and learning lots. Her hair is slowly growing out and I have been able to put some ponytails in it so that is a big plus. Connor is starting to talk a little more. Both the kids love to watch Max and Ruby and Connor will wave his hands in the air when it comes on. Jess is still training for the marathon and is excited for it to be over. I am still working and getting excited for the deer hunt. That's about it for our family!
Editor Note:
I am not going to beg, ok, well, maybe I will . . . I really want everyone to participate in the newsletter. I know that sometimes it seems like we just did it and here I am asking for more updates again!!! But, even if you just say, Hi, we're happy and healthy. Or send a recipe or a picture or something, just fill in the space below your name!!
I really appreciate everyone that has and did send me stuff!
Grandma and Grandpa, I hope that you are OK, it is not like you to not send me something, I usually get yours without even asking!!!
So, please everyone, just play along!!!!
Thanks!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Hey family, this is Karen writing. Sorry this is late. To all of those who missed the reunion, here are some pictures to show you how much fun you missed. Seriously, it was amazing.
Mom and Anne are both still busy in Idaho. They threw a great Westover Reunion. 97% of those who attended we very pleased with the whole thing. Now they are busy taking down the decorations, mowing, and cleaning before the end of season renters start showing up.
Dad’s doing fine. Currently, he has a horrible cold. He’s continuing to spend as much time in Idaho, with us, as he can, by driving back and forth between home and Rexburg. He is continuing to work with, what seems like 5 jobs.
I, Karen, am also getting over a horrible cold. I’m slowly accepting the fact that summer is coming to an end, and that I need to start planning to move back to Logan. It’s been a great summer.
Amy has spent most of her time in Idaho, with Anne and ma. She helps a lot around the trailers and on the ranch.
Schnick has kept everybody in the trailers happy by creating magnificent meals. She is one of the best cooks, right next to Betty Crocker and the Pillsbury Dough Boy. Our family would have de-sin-igrated (sound out the word, spell check couldn’t find it and I have no idea how to spell it) if it wasn’t for her.
All together, our family is doing great, we are getting fantastic farmer tans (Anne’s got zebra stripes on her feet and I’ve got thong lines on my feet). I hope everybody is doing great, and we love you tons. Bye!
Mom and Anne are both still busy in Idaho. They threw a great Westover Reunion. 97% of those who attended we very pleased with the whole thing. Now they are busy taking down the decorations, mowing, and cleaning before the end of season renters start showing up.
Dad’s doing fine. Currently, he has a horrible cold. He’s continuing to spend as much time in Idaho, with us, as he can, by driving back and forth between home and Rexburg. He is continuing to work with, what seems like 5 jobs.
I, Karen, am also getting over a horrible cold. I’m slowly accepting the fact that summer is coming to an end, and that I need to start planning to move back to Logan. It’s been a great summer.
Amy has spent most of her time in Idaho, with Anne and ma. She helps a lot around the trailers and on the ranch.
Schnick has kept everybody in the trailers happy by creating magnificent meals. She is one of the best cooks, right next to Betty Crocker and the Pillsbury Dough Boy. Our family would have de-sin-igrated (sound out the word, spell check couldn’t find it and I have no idea how to spell it) if it wasn’t for her.
All together, our family is doing great, we are getting fantastic farmer tans (Anne’s got zebra stripes on her feet and I’ve got thong lines on my feet). I hope everybody is doing great, and we love you tons. Bye!
Friday, August 8, 2008
August is HOT!!!
This months newsletter is a little sparse!!! But fun all the same, so enjoy!
Grandma & Grandpa:
Family:
January 8,1952 was the date that I was formally inducted into the military service of the United States. This induction ceremony took place at Fort Douglas Utah and was exactly two months after Donna and I were sealed as husband and wife. After the ceremony we new inductees were bussed by the army to the train station in Salt Lake City where we boarded a train headed to Fort Lewis Washington. Even though I had traveled this route just over three months earlier in the reverse direction I didn’t consider it a sentimental journey; I was now headed away from my sweetheart.
I spent about two weeks at Fort Lewis, located near Tacoma, where I learned some of the expectations of the army during my period of service. We were issued army clothing, had our pictures taken (see above), filled out many documents and received fun assignments of cleaning and other worthwhile disciplines. Toward the end of January I along with several other of my fellow privates were placed on a two propeller plane and sent to Camp Roberts California to begin basic training which lasted eight weeks once it got started. Two weeks into basic training I was allowed to attend LDS church service on base. It had been several weeks since an association with anyone of like moral values so this brief hour was very welcome. During basic training I was asked to choose from several options. I could sign up to serve for an extended period in the army and attend OCS (Officer Candidate School) at Fort Benning Georgia or become an infantry soldier with sixteen weeks basic training or choose from several specialty courses. I chose radio-operators school which lasted another eight weeks there at Camp Roberts.
At the conclusion of basic training, I could live off base so Donna joined me and we rented a one-room apartment in Paso Robles near the Camp Roberts. I was permitted to leave base each day but had to be back for roll call at six am each morning. I was free at noon on Saturday till Monday morning at 6:00. Paso Robles had a small Branch of the Church consisting mostly of army personnel and wives. Weekends were wonderful.
All good things have a way of ending. The time came when I finished training at Camp Roberts and received orders to embark for the Far East Command which meant Korea at that time. Donna And I went home to Salt Lake for a two-week furlough before I left for overseas. I think it was sometime in July 1952 that I boarded a troopship near San Francisco and sailed for Korea with an overnight stop in Japan to receive battle equipment. Upon arriving in Inchon Korea we were placed on a train at night and headed for Seoul and on to our final destination in army trucks. My assignment was with the 5th RCT (Regimental Combat Team) as a headquarters radio operator. My delightful experiences in Korea over the next eleven months must wait for another occasion to be told. I arrived back home to Donna and Ron about a year after leaving and a good time was had by all.
It has been a wonderful life. This is your Genesis Story. Love ya.
Ron & Maud Mary Family:
Brent, Melissa & Boys:
We are all doing well! We enjoyed the Westover Reunion, although we need to work on Elf and camping. He didn’t have too much fun sleeping in a tent! Mom W and girls did a great job with the reunion and there was always something to do! We enjoyed the time away from home and the cooler weather!
Bear and Bug are excited to start school in a couple of weeks and we are all VERY excited that Elf’s adoption was finalized! YEA! We look forward to having him sealed to us this weekend!
Dan & Verna Family:
As you know, we have recently expanded our family and lost one of our family. Lacie moved to Price last week. She is living with a girlfriend in a trailer. It is small but adequate. I so miss her. The day she left, the girls all played switch it change it and Tanya is now the proud owner of Lacie's room, KaRanda is now in Tanya's old room, Kara is now in a room by herself, (some may call it the family room), Faith is by herself and Courtney is by herself. That leaves one room....MY OH MY...What shall we do? We can't have an empty room in our house, (enter Anthony) What a delightful little person Anthony is. Yes, he is in the empty bedroom. No, he doesn't take much space. He is our newest family member. He is 2 years old. Yes, two years old. We love him. He has totally and completely put all of us under his little two year old spell. The girls fight over who gets to take care of him except at night. That is mom's domain. He is a keeper!! The rest of us are getting ready for the trail back to school. We start on August 19. Courtney and Tanya will be in High School. KaRanda in 7th grade, Kara in 5th grade and Faith in 4th grade. Anthony will be in Jamie's daycare. Tanya just got her first part-time job. She is so excited. She will be at Stewart's Grocery store. So if anyone is in the area of Castle Dale, look her up. She is paying for a cell phone. YIPEE!! Dan is finishing up summer semester and will soon have a couple of weeks off from school. Happy Day! That's all folks! ((((SCREECH>>>>)
In case Robert doesn't send in info, Davey is on the Ferron Youth Council. Staying very busy. Tristan will be in all day Kindergarten this upcoming year. TyTy will be half day preschool. John and Liz have moved to Orem to live with her mom for a few months. Liz still has her good and bad days with her pregnancy. But seems to be doing better. We can't wait to find out if Sara Sibling is a boy or a girl. Stay tuned for next month. OK. That is all for now. Verna
Brandon, Suzanne & Keaton:
July was so crazy that we ended the month with colds. Brandon's work had a party at boondocks and Keaton rode in his first Go-kart and bumper boat (Keaton drove and Brandon was dizzy and soaked). Keaton also enjoyed playing wack-a-mole and miniature golf. He got scared at the end of the 18th hole when the lizard blew fire out of its mouth. He was very tired when we got home but wanted to play with all the toys he had won. He now plays a mean harmonica. On separate occasions, Brandon also got to enjoy some bowling and golfing with his co-workers.
Keaton and Brandon took their new found "kids craft time" at Lowes and built a cool looking dune-buggy. Keaton is very proud of the projects that they've completed. We also hit Lagoon for our annual Stake Lagoon day. The day would have been free if we didn't have to pay for $8 parking. Keaton loved music express and tilt-a-whirl. The merry-go-round though was something he could do without. We invited our next door neighbors and Keaton shared his snack with Hannah during the Broadway show.
We had a great time at the Family reunion. Keaton loved that he got to see Captain Hook. He enjoyed making swords, ice cream, churros, fishing for pirate treasure and shooting down Wendy-bird with bow and arrows. He collected a chestful of pirate coins to purchase trinkets. He loved jumping on the trampolines, being pushed on the swings and making a bottle rocket. Suzanne got to stretch her craft skills and we all enjoyed visiting with family.
In the last week of July, we spent time with Suzanne's brother's family visiting from Phoenix. We took family pictures, did a lot of chatting and went swimming. It was quite the busy month for us but we lived through it, now we are just trying to get Keaton's bedtime back to or close to what it was before July. We hope everyone is well and congrats to all those that are expecting.
Keaton and Brandon took their new found "kids craft time" at Lowes and built a cool looking dune-buggy. Keaton is very proud of the projects that they've completed. We also hit Lagoon for our annual Stake Lagoon day. The day would have been free if we didn't have to pay for $8 parking. Keaton loved music express and tilt-a-whirl. The merry-go-round though was something he could do without. We invited our next door neighbors and Keaton shared his snack with Hannah during the Broadway show.
We had a great time at the Family reunion. Keaton loved that he got to see Captain Hook. He enjoyed making swords, ice cream, churros, fishing for pirate treasure and shooting down Wendy-bird with bow and arrows. He collected a chestful of pirate coins to purchase trinkets. He loved jumping on the trampolines, being pushed on the swings and making a bottle rocket. Suzanne got to stretch her craft skills and we all enjoyed visiting with family.
In the last week of July, we spent time with Suzanne's brother's family visiting from Phoenix. We took family pictures, did a lot of chatting and went swimming. It was quite the busy month for us but we lived through it, now we are just trying to get Keaton's bedtime back to or close to what it was before July. We hope everyone is well and congrats to all those that are expecting.
Gary & Bev Family:
Gary And Bev have had a wonderful crazy month! The first week was spent with kids and grandkids in Park City. We had so much fun golfing, swimming, & shopping. Since it was the 4th of July, we went to the parade and watched fireworks. We were home for a week then met Kellen and Camille in Las Vegas to help them move down here. They are living with us now. Kellen will start law school on Aug 18. The last week in July we went to San Diego to a wedding. It was so good to be in San Diego were it was cool weather and to visit friends. Yes we have driven a lot of miles this month but things should settle down now.
Dwayne & Patty Family:
Hal & Diana Family:
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
July, where has the time gone!
It is once again time to send our contributions to the family Newsletter. We appreciate the efforts put forth by Gary and Bev’s family for our family reunion. I think everyone had a good time. We look forward to next year when Dwayne and Patty will sponsor our reunion I want to continue with Grandpa Gerald’s theme from last month.I was born in Menan, Idaho. I am the third child for Jessie and Zena Hinckley. During those years in our family, we spent our summers in Rexburg and the winters wherever dad could get a contract to teach school. Menan happened to be the school for that year. In about 1936, we moved into Rexburg and Dad found other employment. We lived in a home not far from the Porter Park. When Dad was teaching school, I was sometimes in his classes. When we settled in Rexburg, I went to Washington Elementary. I remember the flooding of our playground so we could ice skate on the field. Rexburg gets cold enough for that.
In 1941, the United States had a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by The Japanese.
The United States began making war materials to fight the war. My father found a job in this war effort. We moved to Salt Lake City. There were now 8 children in our family. I attended my junior high on the University Campus in a training school. I graduated and attended East High School where I graduated in 1947. We lived in the Eleventh Ward which is where I met Gerald . After he served his mission we were married and that is how this Wilkinson group got started.
Ron and Maud Mary Family:
They are busy in Idaho!
Eric and Shannon Family:
Eric and Shannon WilkinsonWe have been keeping busy -- by mostly weeding our very large vegetable garden and other garden beds.Of course Eric is also taking two classes a week and gets lots of studying done while taking the front runner to and from work. Shannon has her hands full with the kids, trying to keep the house clean, and doing a lot of weeding. Her bee keeping hobby has Eric fascinated. He wants more bees now. Emma just turned 5 and has been so excited. The next day she wanted to know if she was going to school now. She had a birthday party with her friends for the first time and had lots of fun. Dallin keeps talking about the birthday party he's going to have and who he's going to invite. . . yikes. He tells people he is Mr. Incredible and Luke Skywalker. Dallin also tells his mom that he is her true love's kiss. What a prince charming! Lizbeth is the biggest climber. She is often quietly busy although she is also learning new words and can at times be very loud. If we ever come to your house, please make sure your bathroom doors are closed! We are the proud owners of central air now. So you can see our life is so exciting and fulfilling. To those of you man or woman enough to go to the Westover reunion -- see ya there!
Dan and Verna Family:
Our family really enjoyed the family reunion. It was so fun to see all the little ones who are growing up so fast and compare notes about what is happening. I appreciate Patti and Dwayne for accepting the reigns for next year. Patti says she is taking crisp dollars as bribery for the most popular date to hold it. So....
Dan is surviving through the hot of the summer in school. So am I. Tanya and Courtney now both have their learners permits. SCARY!!! Kara and Faith had their last ballgames this past week. YEAH!! I mean....Awwww too bad. They really did well. What else can I say? Happy 4th and 24th.
The Higbees
Robert & Jamie Family:
We had a great time at the family party. Thank You so much to everyone who helped make it happen. Our lives are starting to slow down a bit. All of the kids were involved in baseball, T-ball, softball and Robert helped coach Will’s team, so we had a very busy schedule. There were games every night and practices on top of that. The boys finished in June and Becca just finished her last game on July 1st (she did great by the way) so we have free time again. Robert is staying busy with work and all that it involves, he is also in the young men’s presidency so Davey and he have activities every Tuesday, and he is the ward scout master so he holds scouts every Wednesday, needless to say he is very busy. Davey received the priesthood on the 1st of June. We are very proud of him; he does a great job passing the sacrament. Our ward really needed another Deacon we are up to three now. Will has earned his wolf badge and some arrow points in cub scouts and will be receiving that at the end of the month. He worked really hard on this and did a great job. We are hoping to be able to go to reunion; we will just have to see if it works out. I have caught the blogging bug but I have made it a private blog, (I am not comfortable with just anyone being able to see the kids) so if anyone is interested in reading it send me an email at jkhigbee@hotmail.com and I will get you invited.
Brandon & Suzanne Family:
We can't seem to remember what went on in June, it flew by. We quite enjoyed seeing the extended family. Keaton is at a stage where Brandon has to do everything with him and sorry that we couldn't get around to chat with everyone in the family. We only remember seeing Jeremy, Laura and Paul for what seemed a milli-second.
We are planning to go to Rexburg, July 23, for the Westover Family Reunion. We would like to see everyone there. It sounds like Anne and crew have done a great job organizing it. Anne, Suzanne does not want to be stuck in the Kitchen again, especially with that mean lady.
For Father's day, Suzanne and Keaton gave Brandon a picture story book. It has pictures of Brandon, Suzanne and Keaton. Suzanne also included quotes and other sayings. Also this month, Suzanne finally found something Korean that she can eat. We found it at a place called Myung Ga where we went with our neighbors for dinner.
We hope that everyone had a safe 4th of July. We watched the North Salt Lake City fireworks from our neighbors deck. Keaton touched a sparkler while it was still hot and that ruined the rest of the sparklers for him. Our neighborhood held the 3rd annual children's parade yesterday to celebrate the 4th of July. Keaton rode with Hannah in her Jeep. Hannah's mom decorated the jeep and put a sign together but she put Hannah + Keaton. Hannah's mom told us that her Baptist Minister Uncle told her to keep Hannah away from the Mormon boys. We are very happy that they moved in next to us.
Keaton and Brandon built a birdhouse at home depot. Home depot holds free craft times every first Saturday. Keaton got a work apron and a pin for building his birdhouse.
Have a good July!
Gary and Bev Family:
We had a great time at the Family reunion. Thanks to everyone who came and to all who brought such wonderful food! It was fun to get to see everyone and chat!
Our family has been busy while on vacation! Bev and Britany came to Utah June 18 and have visited Salt Lake, Cokeville, Pocatello, Logan, and Park City! Sometimes you need a vacation from your vacation!
The whole family came and staid in Park City for the 4th. It was a lot of fun to have everyone there. We shopped, swam, watched a parade, fireworks, golfed, rode the alpine slide, coaster, merry-go-round, climbing wall, etc, shopped, swam and shopped! Gary and Bev left July 6 to head back to the Arizona heat!
Dwayne and Patty Family:
We want to thank Gary, Bev and their family for the great job they did with organizing this year's family reunion. We had a great time visiting with everyone.
Dwayne and Patty: June has been a quiet month. I went to Girls camp the second week in June. We stayed at a ranch that was on the banks of the Snake River. We were able to go kayaking, and went for a 4 hour canoe trip. I helped with the cooking and couldn't believe how much food the girls would eat. We thought we had purchased enough food but apparently not, thank heavens there was a Walmart about 20 minutes away. At least we as leaders brought our supple of Diet Coke to keep us going.
Ben and Alissa: They are both staying busy with their jobs. Alissa was in New York City the first week in June. One morning she was working out on the treadmill in the gym at the Hotel, when she noticed some security men coming through. The next thing she saw was Barrack Obama was on the treadmill next to her working out. Not every day you get to work out next to a Presidental canidate.Ben is still working at getting his business off the ground. Jacob is enjoying going to school and playing with his friends. At the first of July they will be moving to a new place closer to the city.
Todd and Jade: They went on a Alaskan cruise during June. They had a great time, except that they both came home with colds.
Heather: Has been busy with work and has come home the last 3 weekends. ( She had a friend get married, her cousin had a farewell, and rode up with Steph when she came up).
Steph: Came home the last weekend in June to get her wisdom teeth out. She did well, except that the pain medication they gave her didn't faze her. Instead of sleeping she was awake. Steph also brought her boyfriend with her. His name is Ben. He is in the Navy and is a very nice man.
Hal and Diana Family:
From the Jensen'sSorry we missed the Wilkinson get together. We were in charge of the Pickett Reunion on Friday and it took all we had. (We crashed on Saturday)We felt that we just needed to stay home and relax for a day. It was a busy month.Hope you all had a great time.This month.we were able to spend a week with our granddaughter McKendry and really enjoyed having her. Then later in the month., we had Paul for a week. That was also a great week in which we just had fun with him.We love doing the grandparent thing. My goal is that all my grand kids (and future grand kids)? will get to spend some time with us each summer.We also got together and had family pictures taken. That is a challenge in any family. Thank you to Jessica for arranging that. Life is great staying home. I look forward to the time I can retire and just stay home. This has also been Hal's month to conduct at church. That means that he has to make arrangements for every Sunday,seems like he always gets the fifth Sunday to arrange, that really keeps him busy.But I want to say, he did a great job. Every Sunday turned out a Sacrament all would remember.OK, not one person went to sleep.I walked the aisles to make sure.If anyone was found napping, they did not receive library materials that day.By the way, I am the librarian.I'm sure everyone has been wondering what great thing is happening on July 15.( Doesn't that sound like something Grandpa would say), well for me it means that I will turn the big 50. That is not something I look forward to. I know many of you wanted to come and surprise me but I will not be home, so maybe catch me on the 51 birthday. We are talking the four wheelers and heading for the hills. Probably be gone all day.Well that's it. Have a great July 4th.
Jeremy and Laura Family:
Paul is receiving speech therapy services for an expressive speech delay through the Provo Early Education Program. He was tested to understand at a 3 year old level, but only speak at a one year old level. He just turned 2. We have high hopes that our flooding him with good language modeling and giving him a verbal play by play of everything we're doing will help him get caught up. He is darn cute.
We sat for Jensen family pictures this month. We're excited to see how they turned out. Check our blog for updates and when we get the pics, we will put them up.
Jeremy has started his first graduate class through USU online and it seems pretty easy. Lucky him.
Laura is nearly half way through her practicum work, which is teaching reading, math, social skills, and art/PE/music to 2-4th graders who are in resource during the regular school year. It is a challenge planning lessons, but very good experience. She also goes to class two nights a week. She will finally have her certification after student teaching ends just before Christmas, which happens to be a good thing for the Jensen family since they are expecting baby #2 for New Year's.
Josh and Jessica Family:
Not much new with the Josh Jensen's. McKendry cut a good part of her hair off this past month! Two weeks before we had family pictures with Josh's family. We covered it up with a headband. There are pictures of it on our blog. Connor is starting to walk more then crawl and he is everywhere. He is a little monkey and climbs on everything. Josh is loving his new motorcycle and drives it everywhere. He is getting some nice farmers tan from it as well. He is also getting a little promotion at work and since I'm not really sure exactly what he does and what his new responsiblities will be I can't really say what kind of promotion it is but I know he will be working in marketing more and still be working on the website. I am still training for the marathon and getting huge calfs! That is what a lady at church told me. Quote "Man your calves are huge". I will choose to take that as a compliment. We did go up to Provo a couple of weeks ago and have family pictures. I want to thank Josh's family for coming and sacrificing to make it to pictures cause it meant alot to me and I can't wait to see the results of them. I think they will turn out really good. Well that's about it for now. We are really looking forward to the 4th and feel bad that we didn't make it to the family party this year but maybe we will see everyone at Thanksgiving!?!
Kelly and Stephanee:
Hey Fam.... Life in St George is good. Just wanted to say thanks for everyone who supported us during our wedding in April. Sorry we couldn't make it to the reunion last weekend. Kelly is still working at Learnkey and I'm enjoying being unemployed until the hubby starts to get angry for not having extra income....haha :) No just kiddin.....I'm watching my sisters kids while she and her hubby work. That way I'm earning some money for us. We are looking forward to spending the 4th in Richfield with Mother and Father Jensen. No kids yet, but SO excited to have some one day...We are enjoying being Sunbeam teachers for Primary....it is making us wonder if we want kids.....more of a birth control thing for us than anything :) St George could NOT be HOTTER! We are very thankful for the person who invented AIR CONDITIONING!!! If you want to know what else were up to.....you could always look at the blog. I'm good at keeping that updated!
Love, da Jensens (Kelly and Steph)
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
It's Party Time!!!
Please click on the blue link above that says "View Larger Map" to see better directions. The Park is located in Riverton Utah, (yes that is a change to what we said earlier). It is located on 12400 South and 1000 West. You will turn east on 12400 south into a neighborhood, once you are on 12400 south, just follow it all the way back, and you will dead end into the park's parking lot! I tried to show that you will get off on the 12300 south exit from I-15, the same exit you take to go to Grandma and Grandpa's, only you turn west instead of east off the exit.
And here are the updates!
Our contribution to the June family newsletter will consist of a historical review of Grandpa’s high school years. Gerald Allen Wilkinson lived in Navco, Alabama (a suburb of Mobile) with his parents, sister and brother when he attended Murphy High School from 1943 to 1947. You may recall that the United States’ active involvement in World War 2 was between 1941 and 1945. His high school years were from the middle of to shortly after the end of this war. Some veterans enrolled in high school after 1945. Murphy High was located about ten miles from Navco and there were no public school buses available, so transportation to high school each day was by car-pooling with other Navco students.
Murphy High was the only public high school in Mobile at that time. There was, however, both a Catholic high school as well as a private high school in the city both with a sizable enrollment. All three of these schools were segregated (whites only) and I suppose there was a colored high school but I don’t recall anything concerning it. Segregation was in full swing at this time but wasn’t an issue with either the white or black population. Mobile has a strong Spanish heritage and this is reflected in the architecture of Murphy High buildings. Admiral Pineda, a Spaniard, discovered Mobile Bay in 1519. The Spanish failed in their colonizing efforts of Mobile but the French succeeded in 1711. Mobile became an English colony in 1763 after the French and Indian War. The Spaniards reclaimed the city in 1780 and held it until the United States acquired it in 1813 as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
Gerald enjoyed his time at Murphy even though he was a small fish in a large pond. There were about 700 in the 1947 senior class and over 3000 total students. Interestingly enough, there were only about 6 or 7 LDS students in the entire student body. Mobile had an LDS Branch of less than 150 members with an average attendance at church meetings of 50-60. Gerald graduated, with honors, May 29, 1947 and left with his family the next day headed to Utah.
Grandpa & Grandpa
Ron & Maud Mary Family:
Hello family, this is Anne. Mom is recovering from surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff and to shave off some bone spurs. She started writing this email but it was taking her a long time so I took over. She had surgery on Tuesday the 20th of May. Grandma brought us dinner. It was delicious. Then the relief society president brought us cookies. They were fabulous. Mom is feeling much better. The first couple days were a little rough and she took a lot of pain killers. It was kind of entertaining. She has been sleeping in the recliner in the living room and Karen has been sleeping in there also to keep an eye on her. She is doing much better now though. She has been up and back to her old self except for the fact that she can't really use her left arm. She will be in a sling for about 6 weeks and she is doing some physical therapy.
Dad is doing great. He has been trying to keep up with work and church stuff. He loves having Karen home to tease. He is excited to go to Idaho and we are hoping to get the Internet to work up there so he can come and visit us more often. For those who might not know we are getting ready to go spend time at the Westover Ranch this summer. For anyone who hasn't been there in a while you should come up and see us. It is kind of fun.
In Brent and Melissa's family you have already heard the best news. Elf is going to officially become part of our family on July 16th. Then on August 9th, it will become officially forever. He is such a fun little guy. Bear and Bug are doing well. They are busy playing outside with their friends and tending the garden. Bear is excited to be out for summer vacation and Bug is excited to go to Idaho. Bug graduated from preschool and is ready for kindergarten. Bear is taking care of Eric's chickens while their family is on vacation. It has been an adventure. Brent and Melissa are also doing well. They have been going to classes for the adoption and they have passed their background checks. Woo Hoo!
As I said earlier Eric and Shannon and their family went on vacation. They went to Nebraska to visit Shannon's sister. Eric has been working on his garden. It is huge. Shannon has become a bee charmer. She looks very cute in her bee costume. Emma is getting ready to start kindergarten. Dallin is still catching all the chickens. Lizzy is up and walking around. She has become a little tornado and she chases the chickens (the chickens usually out run her).
As for me, I have moved out of the house I was renting with my roommates. I am hoping to buy a house in the fall. Since I spend most of the summer in Idaho I decided it would save me a ton of money if I didn't have to pay rentor utilities. My roommates found another girl to take my spot. Her name is Annie. We thought it was kind of funny. Anyways, most of my stuff is in the garage. Oh yeah, we also fixed up mom's garage for her. We built shelves and painted/sealed the floor. We got the walls and ceiling painted too. Well, I should say half painted. We got half of it done then mom had her surgery. We are hoping to get it finished in the fall. But now that the garage is all nice and pretty I stuffed all my belongings and furniture into that half of the garage. Grandpa saw it before we filled it up. He can tell you how pretty it is. So, anyways, if you know of any cheap houses in Davis County that I could buy, let me know. I can't wait for school to get out. As of tonight (which is May 28th) I only have 2 days of school left. Hopefully I can survive.
Karen is doing great. She finished the semester at Utah State. Now she is at home and is being all crafty. She is glad to be away from weird roommates. She stole my book The Host which I bought when it first came out. She says it is a great book and she is enjoying it. She has been very helpful to mom. The physical therapist showed her how to do some exercises with mom and so she has been making mom do her exercises.
Amy has been working hard on making rugs. She loves this new craft. She is pretty good at it. She has discovered the kits don't always have enough yarn in them so she is often trying to match colors, which can be difficult. Amy is excited to go to Idaho and to mow the lawn. She has been extra nice to her dad since father's day is coming up (wink, wink).
Niki is also busy helping out with the house. Because mom has only one good arm Niki has become the resident chef. She is actually a really good cook. She makes lots of different things. She is going to take the summer off of work and be our cook up in Idaho. She is going to interview for a job working as a teacher's aide tomorrow. Hopefully it will work out for her.She is excited to spend the summer with her favorite sister (I'm not tellingwhich of us is her favorite sister).
Brent Melissa & Boys:
We are doing well and are so excited for summer! Bear just finished 2nd grade and is looking forward to kids club starting. Bug graduated from pre-school and will start a summer kindergarten program next week. Bear and Bug are playing baseball and loving it! Elf is trying to walk, he wants to keep up with his brothers, when he isn’t playing in the dog food or dumping whatever he can onto the floor! In all our spare time we are enjoying the warm weather!
We are looking forward to the family party at the end of the month!
Dan & Verna Family:
The Higbee family is doing well. We just expanded our family to include 12 year old KuRanda. We don't know how long she will be with us, but so far so good. She is a real trooper and we love having her. Lacie is now officially out of foster care but living with us as a renter. We are thrilled with that. She graduated as an honor student from Emery High School and Tanya and Courtney graduated from San Rafael Jr. High.
Sunday, June 1 Davey will be ordained to the Priesthood and become a deacon. We are so proud of him.
John and Liz believe they have sold their video game store and are now ready for bigger and better things.
Brandon, Suzanne & Keaton:
The month of May has left us quickly. Brandon has been busy helping people move and working on the yard. In May, Suzanne had to have a 2nd set of Cortisone shots for her back (it has caused her pain since Keaton's birth). Even with side effects from the shots, Suzanne and Keaton are enjoying spending time with our next door neighbors. We just got back Friday from our yearly stay at Snowbird. Suzanne's parents have had a timeshare there for several years now and Keaton enjoyed the swimming, resort activities and the snow. Suzanne enjoyed getting out of the house and Brandon enjoyed the time off. We hope everyone has a great summer and congratulations to all that need to be congratulated for something.
Gary & Bev Family:
Gary & Bev - May has been a quiet month for us but it seems we keep busy. Gary is really busy with work. The division of Helix Electric he opened here in Phoenix has really done well. They even moved to a bigger office. Way to go Gary! Bev just stays busy at home. Going to lunches with a group of ladies and doing family history with the new family search.
Riley & family - keeping busy with sick kids, school, baseball, softball, PTA, & work. Chesley had closing ceremony for her softball. She has done very well this year. She also made All-Stars HOOOORAY!!!
Britany & Family - busy with plumbing problems, sick kids, swim music & dance lessons, & work. Maya had her first dance recital.
Kellen & Family - they also stay busy with Olivia and work.
We look forward to seeing you at the Wilkinson Reunion the end of June!
Britany:)
Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
We hope this newsletter finds you well and most importantly that you have been practicing your organ skills. Oh do we have an offer for you! We recently attended an Arizona Diamondbacks Major League Baseball game. While there we met a nice fellow by the name of Bobby Freeman. As you can see from the attached pictures, he plays the organ at the baseball games. When Gary started talking to him and mentioned his parents love of the organ, he made him an offer. Please consider his job offer to play as substitutes at the games that he is unable to attend.
If you must decline, know that you will be receiving an autographed copy of his picture (addressed "To Gerald and Donna"). This is a true gem!
Sincerely,
Jeremy, Britany, Maya and Kenyon
(Oh and Gary who did all of the "groundwork" in bringing this phenomenal opportunity to you!)
Dwayne & Patty Family:
Dwayne and Patty: Dwayne has been taking the missionaries to the temple once a week, and has been helping them with a woman and her daughter who have been taking the discussions. The daughter will be baptized June 14. I have finished up with school for the year and will enjoy the summer vacation time.
Ben and Alissa: Ben is closer to getting his business started. Ben and Alissa took Jacob to his first pro baseball game. He had a great time, and decided to take a nap in the 7th inning.
Todd and Jade: Todd is out of school for the summer and enjoying the break. Jade loves her new job.
Steph: Is coming home for a few days this month and we are so... excited to see her and spend time with her.
Heather: Is working hard and getting ready for college life. She loves the ward she is in and is meeting new people.
We are looking forward to the family reunion and visiting with everyone that will be there.
Hal & Diana Family:
Jeremy & Laura Family:
Jeremy and Laura are doing great. Laura got a full tuition scholarship to finish her program this fall. She also sold her wedding dress to a very grateful girl in Tooele. Laura also got another calling to add to her librarian standing. She is on the compassionate service board and is the lady who arranges for meals to be brought to families who need them. Paul got a shiny red tricycle for his birthday. He had a blast playing on Grandma and Grandpa's new swing set. Jeremy finally had success with the grill on Memorial Day and we had some good BBQ chicken and corn on the cob. Jeremy is glad that American Idol is over and he has his wife back on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. We visited Ma and Pa Jensen in Richfield where the men folk went four wheeling in the hills and the women folk and baby folk ran errands and kept house. It was very nice.
-laura, jeremy and paul jensen
Josh & Jessica Family:
This part of the Jensen family is about the same. We are going on a camp out with Jessica's side of the family the last weekend in May. She is very excited and hopefully it will be lot of fun. We are also getting family pictures in a few weeks. We haven't had a really good family picture since before Kelly went on his mission and there have been three sister-in-laws and three babies added to the family. Crazy how time flies. Jessica did take me on a little surprise campout for my birthday. We went to Kolob and we fished the next morning. I caught about 4 fish in an hour and a half so all in all a good morning. That's about it. Jessica starts her marathon training on June 2 and is really looking forward to that. Hope everyone has a great month and Happy Birthday to Kelly on the 13th!!
Love the Josh Jensen's
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