Happy and Sads

more ps

2011-05-17T09:06:00.012-06:00

In addition to the Moss Landing trip, we took the kids to the coolest playground. One of Dani's friends told her about it and she thought the kids might like it.... OH MY YES!!! It is called Dennis the Menace Park in Monterey. It was a bit of a drive, but way worth it!!!! Here are a few of our favorite pics. (By the way, I have added a few to the other post if you missed them)

I tried to turn this video .... but the blog isn't liking me right now and wouldn't do it... so lay down on your side to view :-)

Our last night on the beach.... marshmallows and all!!

Happy 60th

2011-05-15T21:27:00.018-06:00

Yes, I know it has been months since I blogged, and no excuses will be given, but it is time to repent and what time is better than a great event!!!

When we asked Brent what he wanted to do for his big "60"th birthday, he said he just wanted to sit on the beach and play in the sand with his kids and grandkids. So, we made his dream come true.

We loaded everyone into a motor home we rented from a great friend-----(Everyone except Q who couldn't get away, and Dani who we picked up in Rancho Cordova) and headed to California

It was great fun having 7 adults and 5 kids driving and playing for the 12 hours it took to get to Dani's

Once we got to Dani's we got to spend a couple of days there playing at her house, going to the train museum, picking lemons and oranges off her trees, and just hanging around her beautiful

place.

We got to go to church with her on Sunday before we got back in the RV

and headed to our "House on the Beach" It was a beautiful home on Monterey Bay near La Selva Beach. It had 2 walls of nothing but windows and the view was nothing but Ocean. It was glorious.

It had lots of bedrooms, a huge kitchen, a large dinning table, a hot tub, a jacuzzi, plus another large tub and another shower (3 bathrooms). We had plenty of room for the 13 of us!!!

As beautiful and comfortable as the house was.... The Beach ..... was the main attraction. It was cold enough that we were worried about the water, but it only took one day for the young ones to not care about the cold and played and played.

buried in the sand

Aunts who loved to play with them in the waves

Out of the 3 full days and 2 - 1/2 days we were there we were on the beach A LOT... but they could have easily had more.... they loved it!!!

The adults loved it too, watching them play, and making castles, motes and rivers.

Watching and playing with these two was like having twins. They were so cute and fun to be around.

Teaching M how to Boogy Board

Then the girls decided to take a turn on the boards

When the cold got too much, Grma was always there for a warm hug.

3 of the 4 generations there

AH, life is good!!

ps.... we did some kayaking at Moss Landing.... never seen so many seals (or were they sea lions... don't know the difference) and otters in one place, they are hard to see, but the dock in front of the ship is stacked 2 deep with the noisy things. Ah-ha... found a great pic of them stacked on top of each other!!

In Hawaii we were excited to see one or two otters swimming.... here there were bunches of them!!!

The End.... a great week!!!

New Camera

2010-10-05T00:11:00.011-06:00

I needed to get a new camera for the trip..... my other one was way too blurry ... so I got a point and shoot.... let's hope it works better.

I am putting a few practice shots on here so you can give me input and make sure they are not blurry.

There are inside and outside ones... so it should give us a pretty good idea.

Here is the digital video that he said was suppose to be wonderful.... it is a little dark in this room. I hope it isn't blurry.

Miss L again.... My what beautiful eyes.

Miss M getting her nails painted

Now, he said that to check how clear they are, you should take a picture and then ZOOM way in and see if it is still clear.....

And the best way is to take a pic of words a medium distance away, and then zoom in...... and see how clear the lines are on the words.

No this is not my camera info... just random info . . . . . .

Well, what do you think...? I think it looks pretty clear...

Where did the summer go?

2010-09-29T21:50:00.004-06:00

It feels like summer is just getting over and my friend said that her daughter got her midterms this week!!! WHAT?? It is still 90 degrees... it should be summer still!

We finished off the official summer with Dani at Loon Lake. We were there from Sept 1-7th and had a great time. Brent went there with Dani a couple of years ago and loved it... so we had to do a redu.

We took the kayaks - actually WE didn't... we flew out, but a friend... Neil ... wanted to play, too, so he drove his motorhome out and pulled the cargo trailer with all our camping and kayaking equipment in it.

Brent loves this lake.... can you see why?!?!

We took our GPS and did a little geocaching while we were there.... here is where the find was. How is that for a view - pretty amazing.

and then the whole view.... what a beautiful place.

Here is the whole crew pulling out of the lake. Val, Ryan, Brent, Jan, Dani, and Neil.

The next day we went to the other end of the lake and they had a little harder time getting down to the water.... but they did.

Here is Neils rig. Quite the ride. A beautiful outfit that he and Jill were very kind to let us use as home base while tenting and kayaking. A great escape!!

Photo Shoot

2010-08-02T17:05:00.007-06:00

We finally got our pictures from our Photo Shoot. Thought you might like to see our good looking posterity!! The shots were all taken around the family barn. We love that place!!

First is my Kim.

Then my Dani

Brooke and her family

Jess and her family

Then some fun shots.... Grpa and the grandkids

Mom and girls

Dad and girls

girls

They are so cute I had to show you both the pictures!!

Brent and Jan --- aka Mom and Dad

and the whole group.

Now you are up to date.

The Studious One

2010-07-25T21:16:00.003-06:00

M decided she needed to read my book....And use my glasses. I wish I looked that good in them.

Props to Val and Diane

2010-07-15T12:51:00.005-06:00

Val and Diane are currently in Peru with Rotary Youth Link. He is the team leader this year, and loves being able to help both the youth and the Peruvians.

I have copied an article that has been written about them..... or you can go to

http://www.youthlinc.org/index.html

and find out about YouthLINK.

Val Petersen

Val began his YouthLINC experience with the Kenya Alum trip in May 2008 and also had the opportunity to participate in the July 2009 Peru Trip as MicroEnterpise mentor. On both trips he was accompanied by his wife, Diane who is a RN at McKay Dee Hospital. He is currently the Secretary-Treasurer of the Kaysville Rotary Club and had the opportunity to write the Grant Application for next years Rotary involvement in Palmeras Peru for the host rotary Club (Kaysville).
Val has always wanted to get involved in International Humanitarian Service and his experiences with Rotary and YouthLINC the last two years have been amazing. “The mission and program of YouthLINC are so compatable with my goals to see lifetime humanitarians of the rising generations while being able to do good internationally. The experiences in Africa and South America have had significant and life changing impacts on our lives.”
Val lives in South Weber where he previously served 3 terms on the City Council, is involved in community and church service. He served an LDS mission in Northern Argentina in 1972-4 and speaks “forgotten Spanish” but it started to come back after 2 weeks on the Amazon. By day he is employed as the Executive Vice President and CFO of Prime Alliance Bank and on the week-ends he enjoys ATVs, hiking slot canyons, kayaking, volleyball, and traveling. One special interest is exploring the Mayan ruins in Mexico, Honduras, and Guatamala which he had been able to do multiple times in the last decade or so.
He is looking forward to returning to Peru and being involved in the great things being done there, seeing friends there and be part of a new team of future YouthLINC Alums.

UPDATE

2010-06-03T15:29:00.012-06:00

Yes, I am WAY behind. I just looked at my calendar and realized that I need to catch up from the first of APRIL.... yikes. I had better get going!! I don't know how to do this so that it is chronologically correct... but if I enter it first to last and then cut in to add the next one?? we will see how it turns out. Wish me luck!!! ( I am putting them in as if I did them on the right days... so the oldest is the furthest away..... sorry to make you scroll all the way to the end!!) And it is pretty long!!! Good luck! . . . . and I should say start at the bottom and work you way up to make the most sense of it.

May 28-31 -- yes that is only a couple of days after I got back. But what is one to do when Memorial Day is the time to play?? Many of us have read "Undaunted" by Gerald Lund and there was a great desire to 4 wheel the trails that those wonderful pioneers did by foot. So we loaded up the machines and headed down. It was a fun trip with Brent Kim and I along with Neil Brienholt and his daughter Iza and her 11yr old son Kai. We saw Indian ruins, did 7 hours on the trail, found a couple of geocaches, and had lots of sun. In addition we got to see the Natural Bridges Nat. Monument, Kayak Lake Powell, and visit Fillmore (Aunt Iris and the cememtary) and basically have some great time together.

We went around the lake by Hites Crossing because we were too late in the day for the ferry. It was really fun watching the creeks go from a tiny drizzle to the very beginning of the lake. It was a beautiful site.

Natural Bridges was a bonus, we decided on the way to Halls Crossing that we wanted to try and see it and we got there just before sunset... so we were RUNNING to get to each one, It was also beautiful, no, more like breathtaking!!!

We stayed at The family Units at Halls Crossing, which is basically 3 bedroom trailers outfitted like condos.

The next day, After our first Geocache, we headed for the Indian Ruins. Neil hadn't been there for 10 years and drove us right to it.... What a memory he has!! It was pretty intact and if you look close you can see the bikes in the bottom R corner pic. from inside the ruins.

Next we tried to find the Hole in the Rock trail. But it dead ended in a canyon slide... but the journey was exciting! (If you look close in the top R pic, you can see Brent and Neil standing on the opposite side of the slide trying to see if they can find where the trail continues around the canyon... but they are but little dots on the huge slick mountain.)

Yes the 4 wheeling was as intense as it looks. But the adrenalin rush seemed to sit well with the drivers. Check out this video ....... Be sure and notice Kim's wheels are off the ground.... that is the YIKES moment. But she did a great job and even took a couple other machines down after she got the hang of it.

As you will see, coming back up was much easier.

We found some old car relics and did some more geocaching while trying to find the Dome... and ended up on another trail that we decided was too long and dry for us, so we stopped for lunch and headed back.

The desert was blooming some... loved the few spots of color!!

Got back and headed for Kayaking Lake Powell.... The round island in the distance of the top R pic is where they headed to .... then over to the cliffs.

That finished the full day there. Sunday we took the Ferry across to Bullfrog and then Sac mtg in Hanksville.

Kim had never been to Goblin Valley and since we were so close we had to stop there for lunch and a little exploring.

Then on to Fillmore. Aunt Iris was the perfect hostess. After the memorial service Monday she even took us around the cemetary pointing out relatives we should be aware of. One interesting note is that our McBride relative was the first person to be baptized in the Nauvoo Temple. We thought that was kind of neat.

Then finally we headed for home. Cut some flowers and went with Mom Petersen to the cemeteries up this direction. All in all it was a wonderful holiday.

May 10-25 -- I got the good luck to get to go to OHIO !!! B&Q went to DC for a convention and I got to play with L&C for 5 days!!! What fun!! Then they came home and we played even more. There were beautiful flowers from Brent for Mother's Day, How sweet is that... he didn't want to get them and have me leave the next day and not enjoy them,..... so he had them there waiting for me!! I LOVE THAT MAN!!! The kids wrote cute " Welcome to Nana" signs too.... it feels so good to be loved.

Some of the fun things we did I will put into a collage to..... My phone quality of pics is not doing so hot right now... but you can see what we were up to even if it is poor quality pic.

Two of the pics are at the preschool party, Puddle stomping, playing at the mall playground, and swimming with Mom and Dad.

New Bunk Beds were sanded, stained and varnished while I was there - but no pics. sorry.

All in all it was a fun couple of weeks. Love that Nana time!!!

May 1 -- I decided to get creative for Ashley's Baby Shower. Her nursery theme is Forest Animals and I found this cute Owl rag quilt and decided it was perfect.... what do you think? (notice 6' Ashley standing behind it.... it gives you a feel for how big it is) Sorry it is so blurry... I took it with my phone.... and I guess I wiggled it.

April 23-24-- SURPRISE!! It was Brent's birthday and we threw him a surprise party. We had lots of friends and family come to East Canyon to help him celebrate in a grand fashion.
The Surprise was successful

Young and Old were there to celebrate

and the Kitchen Crew fed us all well.!

April 7-11 --The weekend after conference we went on an adventure. We (Kim Brent and I along with Val Mike Ryan Blake and Erika) drove to southern Utah and Northern AZ to a couple of beautiful spots to do some exploring. We first went to the Grand Canyon "Walk the Sky" Yep it is that new sky walk that goes out over the GC. When we got there we found out that it was very commercialized and the kids all protested at the cost and stayed in the parking lot while Brent, Val and Jan bit the bullet and went.

You first have to buy a bus ticket to get out there - you can't drive or walk. But that doesn't get you on the sky walk. You have to buy another ticket to do that. Then you can't take ANYTHING - camera, phone, etc onto the walk - and they conviently take your picture and then charge you an arm and a leg to get a copy of it. All in all.... would we recommend it?? It is a once in a lifetime experience, but be prepared to spend LOTS of money to do it.

can you see below? Cool eh!

This kind of gives you an idea of what it looks like.

Yes it was

hot and we were pretty tired by the time we had our pics taken. (Notice the booties!)

The next day we went to Havasupai. We were very limited on time, so we rode the helicopter in (to the bottom of the canyon) hiked back to the falls, spent the night and then hiked out the next day. It was stunningly beautiful... and there is no way to give you a full picture of it's beauty.. We have a 200 page book with over 400 pictures for our 2 day stay. So I will just give you a few highlights and you will need to come see the book for the full story.

Getting off the chopper in Supai

The new fall made by the flood... we named it Ryan's falls because he heard it from the trail and we wouldn't have found it otherwise.... it wasn't on the map.... It was beautiful

You can see where the ground used to be, (before the flood) and where the new growth is starting in the new area.... It was beautiful

This is the other fall after that green area, can you see them walking under the falls?

The MEN overlooking Havasuai Falls

I decided to save some room and make a collage... Things to look for..... Havasupai Falls is the Jagged one (the one the boys were looking at from the top) After it, we had to decend to Mooney Falls. Notice the "Beware sign". You have to climb down through the cave then decend the mountain (notice the ladder - that was the easy part!) once at the bottom it was beautiful with little falls, beautiful ponds.. and the "Green Room" that was mossy and beautiful.

So that is the quick version - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

April 2-4 - - It was wonderful to have Ray and his family here for conference. We loved having him stay at our place and we even had a wonderful hail storm just for them. It was also good to get together with our other siblings and their families for gymnastics and food. I wish I had some pics... but I don't. So if anyone does!!! may I borrow?

WHEEWWWW.... I think I am done, and congratulations to you for making it to the very end!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDPA VERLO

2010-04-28T08:55:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to a wonderful man who a whole tassel of people love and miss. We are thinking about you and your wonderful heritage.

Love you!!

Utah Spring

2010-04-06T07:38:00.005-06:00

A week ago we were working in the yard and enjoying a HUGE case of Spring Fever. It was pretty warm (close to 65) and thinking winter was over. OH NO.... not yet. Of course it was conference weekend and it is only expected that the weather is cooler, and we had a pretty good thunder, lightning and hail storm, but that was pretty much gone in one night. But last night was another matter. Brent and I went walking in preparation for out Havasupai outing next weekend, got another 5 miles under our belt (or feet I guess I should say) it sprinkled a little and was pretty cool, but was a beautiful spring walk.

Well, about 7:15 that evening we went to his Mom's in a pretty good rain storm, and 2 hours later...... it had turned to a HUGE snow storm and we had a good 2-3 inches of snow!!! and Look at what we woke up to this morning - Merry Christmas!!

What a wonderful few weeks!!!

2010-03-17T19:27:00.005-06:00

Sorry, I have been slow again.... but I have an excuse... I have been busy with grandkids. You know those little gold mines that also become land mines!!! Brooke and her kids were here for a couple of weeks and while they were here we got to have two baby blessings. We also had family pic taken - (It was freezing cold!!! I hope we don't look frozen in them!!) I will add some of them later, but for now... here are some great pics of beautiful kids!!!

The Beazer Clan

L's Blessing day with her Family

L & G aren't they cute!!!

G and his proud parents

Isn't he handsome!!!

brotherly love

So, there you go. Happiness in it's fullness!

I am sooooo slow!!

2010-02-15T18:05:00.003-07:00

I just LOOKED at my own blog and realized I hadn't updated about my trip to OHIO in January. How in the world could I have not done that!!! especially since G arrived and added one more beautiful grandson to our list of jewels!!

Here he is in all of his beautiful splendor. He is a beautiful baby and a gentle spirit.

His proud Mama

L being a great big sister and helping with the first bath

G with his Daddy

Big C giggling with his baby brother

I do love kissin on those sweet smelling bundles!!!

On the last day I was there we all posed with our babies.

Whew.... I am glad I got that on. I am a most forgetful person some times!!!

Happy Valentines!!!

2010-02-15T14:40:00.003-07:00

I decided to do some fun cooking for this weekend and have documented it on Kim's food/book blog. If you want to find the recipe for Tuscan Chicken and Buttered Rosemary Rolls you can go to her site and check them out. It is http://bingeonbooks.blogspot.com/ and here is a pic of all of us enjoying a wonderful dinner.

As you can see it was complimented with fresh fruit with jello mold and was finished off with a fresh raspberry trifle.

Brent's Graduation

2010-01-03T19:10:00.002-07:00

We forgot to let you know that in Oct. Brent got to go to a FEMA earthquake emergency response training back east in Emmitsburg, MD (8 miles south of Gettysburg) he really learned a lot and enjoyed the experience. This is a picture of the cabin they had graduation at.

One of his teachers was an expert on Gettysburg and took Brent and a couple of friends there for a personal tour on one of their free afternoons. He really felt like that was a great blessing.

Thank You

2009-12-13T21:20:00.003-07:00

Brent surprised me with a beautiful new nativity this year. It warms my heart to look at it - - it is so beautiful. Thank you!!

They are a beautiful addition to my collection. (And at the top of the list of my favorites)

Our Stake had a Nativity Show for the Christmas Activity this year and I got to show some of mine. I really am blessed to have some beautiful pieces.

Finally - - news

2009-12-13T20:15:00.014-07:00

It has been way to long and I have a lot to catch up on.... so let's start with that cute house of Dani's now that she has made it hers legally and literally....

Not a lot... but a few pics. You have the before.... (see below) here are some of the afters........

Dining room set... just in time for Thanksgiving. (Notice Dad mowing the lawn through the window!!) And what a Thanksgiving it was.... we got to go out and spend it with her. She invited some friends over, we cooked and cooked.... the the results.......

I must say were FANTASTIC!! The Pies and Turkey were PICTURE PERFECT!!

Then on Black Friday.... we decorated her tree.... what a beauty!!

notice the cranbrerry and popcorn .... we strung it ourselves!!

Speaking of Thanksgiving..... we got a special surprise that Day.... Little Lucy Dawn Merryweather decided to keep the Grma Speakman tradition and arrived at 1:05 in the afternoon. Mom and Daughter are healthy and Happy... and now that Nana in back in town.... she is happy too!! and making sure that she is getting LOTS of baby time!!

and Big sister Loves her Baby Lucy!

I really wanted to add some more really good pics.... and yes they are all the way back in OCT!!! We had such a great time in OHIO. We got to spend a couple of weeks with our favorite OHIO family and as these pics will show.... we really played hard......

Hiking

Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin carving and painting

Do Love those Pumpkins!!!

Trick or ( L=Mommy and C=Dragon)

Mini Golfing

Halloween Party fun

And riding in the leaves with Grandpa Pete

House Hunting Comes to an End

2009-08-26T00:15:00.006-06:00

So most of you that are seeing this post saw the other post that I had about a house. Well . . . that was my first offer I made on a house. This one is my last!!!!! There were around tweleve in the middle and I must say I am glad I didn't get any of them, cuz this one is by far the cutest. I just love it. Here are the pictures that they had on the listing I will be going to see it on Friday again and will probably post more then. These pictures are good, but they are missing some of the best parts - the suspense I know you will just have to wait and see. I really really like this house and can't wait for you all to come out and visit me now that I have the space for you to stay in!!! So escrow opened yesterday, I went in and signed all the stuff to get the loan going today and I close on Sept. 22. Wish me luck!!

So here is the front of the house - Look at the nice yard - such a cute house!!

Here is the backyard. So the bushes aren't the end of the yard behind them is a little fruit tree orchard - so cute - so excited for this to be owned by me. Oh what fun awaits. The tree to the right of the photo near the house is a huge oak tree that made me want to start climbing it. Lots of flower beds and plenty of space for the food garden.

The Front door is on the left. Kitchen is trough the doorway. Photographer is standing in the living room - look at those great book shelves and that awsome fireplace (to keep me warm in the cold cold winters that we have here . . . oh but don't it look great and look at the next picture same room envision a christmas tree ahhhh and oh what joy)

- so this next picture is turning to the right and looking into the back yard from the previous one.

Here is the kitchen from the doorway in the fireplace picture - notice two ovens - moving up in the world that is me. And want you to all notice the lovely piano through the window - ah yea - it comes with the house - oh so happy!!!!

And the family Room - get there by walking straight through the kitchen.

And the dining room. The brick on the right is the fireplace from the living room. Behind the photographer is the kitchen (to the right at the far side of the kitchen picture above).

So there are pictures of the bedrooms, but they just show white walls and wood floors, so I will see if we can get something more for the next showing.

Hope you enjoyed the tour.

July 4th

2009-07-09T10:24:00.004-06:00

I told you there was a lot going on.... so today's update is the 4th of July. We got up really early and went to get the Kaysville Rotary 5K/10K set up. They were really excited because they had more preregistered than ever in their history. We added to their numbers with 3 Generations of Petersen participating. Ashley did the 5K run and Kim, Iris, and I did the walk.

It was a great race, the weather was perfect and we all survived. In fact I came in 7th in my age group, Kim came in 4th and Iris came in 1st!!!!! (haven't heard what Ash did.... she left before we finished - geezzzze speedy!!!!!) We were so proud of here... here she is with her good looking Rotarian wearing her gold medal.

After we went to Breakfast we headed out to the Great Salt Lake where we did some kayaking. We left the marina and went toward egg island. I think if Brent had someone a little more adventurous (who hadn't just finished a 5K) he would have made it all the way to the island.

After, we took a well deserved NAP and then Kim and I worked on her family tree quilt (which I must say is darling) , to Val and Diane's for a 4th bar-b-que, then to Kaysville for fireworks. It was all in all a lovely day.

Choir Tour

2009-07-08T09:13:00.022-06:00

There has been and will be so much going on in June and July that I thought I had better get going on the updates ASAP so you didn't get overwhelmed with new entries.

Choir tour was amazing. It usually is, but it didn't disappoint this time either. I am going to give you a brief summery of the tour. It will be mostly tourist things.... with a few concert side notes. If you want details and news, choir, and member info --- I will also include a link or two for those. But if you go to the choir website.... there is LOTS of info there. It's link is: http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/There is daily coverage by choir members, pre tour media coverage, post concert reviews, and continuing coverage for the Church News and Deseret News by Gerry Avant . But, here is my mini record of it......

We started out in Cincinnati and the highlight was getting to see the Beazers.

yes, we did do other things.... but the escalator was by far the most popular play toy of the day.
Q was reconnecting with his high school choir teacher, so we didn't get a pic of him... darn.

Here we are on the River at Riverbend. The concert was down right FUN!! it was all familiar songs and a lot of Americana. We sang with the Cincinnati Pops and Erich Kunzel. He is such a great man and even with the cancer he is battling... he didn't let it affect his performance. One of the highlights of the evening was a reading of the narration of the Lincoln Portrait by Eric Copeland by former astronaut and the first man on the moon Neil Armstrong. It was a moving rendition.
http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_Cinci n nati

Next was on to St. Louis, MO. Seeing The Arch come into view, learning it's history, and walking it's city was a new and memorable experience. Sat. Morning the choir had an early morning photo shoot, then Brent and I took a paddle boat ride down the Missouri River, road the trolley to the top of the arch, learned about the Old Historic Courthouse where Dred and Harriet Scott, both slaves, pleaded with the court for their freedom. They lost the battle, and that decision was one of the contributing factors to the start of the Civil War (if I understand it correctly) Virginia Minor also petitioned for women's right to vote in the 1870’s.

This is me in the park right by our Hotel. The Old Courthouse is framed by the Arch.
Our orchestra joined us for the concert that night and the rest of the tour. It was good to have them there. As good as the Cin. Pops are... they are not part of the family like OTS is we love having them with us. One of the publicity ideas that has worked really well is to have a local celebrity conduct the encore. In St Louis it was the Former Missouri governor, U.S. senator and U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft. He is a delightful man who told us about his friendship with Senators Hatch and Bennett.

http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_StLouis

Sunday we drove to DesMoines by way of Nauvoo. We had Sac Mtg at the Stake Center there and then were allowed to explore until about 5. It was a great adventure. The missionaries don't usually have things open on Sunday, but they were so excited that we were coming that they all dressed up in their period costumes and opened up all the sites for us. It was very kind of them. Brent and I have already been there many time so we didn't feel the need to do the normal tourist things, so we took leisurely walks around the temple, rode the bus around the city, and generally recalled memories of Mom and Dad and the area. I got a little melancholy that day. I think I was missing them in there favorite place.

http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_Nauvoo

Des Monies has special memories. Some of us chose to do some service while we were there. We were bussed to Care Centers ( we had 3 groups that did 2 different centers with 2 different groups in the larger one) and sang a little mini concert for the residents there. We were very small groups compared to what we usually sing with, but the blessings were HUGE. The residents were so appreciative and some were singing with us, directing us, or just sitting with their eyes closed and listening. It was a beautiful experience.

http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_DesMoines

From DesMoines we traveled to Omaha. We stopped at 3 places on the way. The Western Historic Trails Center, Kanesville Tabernacle in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and the Mormon Trail Center, Cemetery, and Temple at Winter Quarters The Western Trails center shows the route, experiences, and history of all the major westward trails. The Tabernacle ( pictured here with a statue of the 1st Pres), is where Brigham Young was sustained as the new Pres. in 1847 (yes he did come back that year!) and Winter Quarters Center is and amazing and beautiful spot. The Spirit is in rich abundance there.

I just realized that this is getting WAY toooo long... so I will try to be a little more brief. Having said that I must tell you that the Omaha Performance was the most comfortable and enjoyable for me. As you know I am not one of the tallest - that's an understatement - so I am usually in the front 3 rows in concert seating. Well.... seating was a bit of a challenge at the beautiful Holland Performing Arts Center they just weren't used to a group of our size... so as luck would have it I ended up on the BACK row!!! How fun is that... and I looked TALL!! Yes that is me right under the "E" I LOVED IT!!! I wish it would happen more often.... but not so. The concert was sold out and the acoustics were wonderful. It was great to be in a performing arts center rather than a Hockey arena. http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_Omaha and http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_Omaha2

Off to Kansas City... spent the morning visiting Independence, both our sites. including Liberty Jail, and those of The Community of Christ. I will be breif.... go to the web sites to get LOTS of info..... http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_KansasCity

Oklahoma City, OK (or really the concert was in Norman... 45 min away) saw 3 things I had never seen before....
1. A motorcycle rally.... there was a Harley Rally.... more motorcycles than I had ever see in my life!!! YES!! every street looked like this.

2. The memorial for the OK, city bombing... what a touching site.....

If anyone is in the area ... it is a must see.
3. National Cowboy Museum. ran out of time to go through it.... but I love the gift shop!!!

I must say that I fell in love with OK city !!! We ate at a great Mexican Rest. that night... we were craving a taco!!! Saw its Canal boats. Loved being at the Sooner's home. I guess the uniqueness of being in a state I had never been in was great!!

http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_Norman

The Sabbath is here again.... we had Sac mtg at the hotel and then a lovely 15 hours to Denver. It was suppose to be a 10 hour drive, but with driver breaks, time changes, etc.... we left OK city at 9 and got to our hotels in Denver at 12am..... made for a long day. But was not as unbearable as we had anticipated.
http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_Crossing

Then Denver, oh Denver. It was soooo good to be in dry mountain air!!! stepping off the bus at midnight was such a breath of fresh air. The smell of pine trees was even in the air!

And then there is Red Rocks Amphitheatre What a beautiful place. Thinking about it still takes my breath away. Make sure and see the link on this one.... look at the crowd.... it was HUGE. Yes those are people all the way to the rock! We had to climb in and out of the venue..... those who were out of shape had a really hard time. But boy, was it worth it!!! http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_RedRocks

Then it was time to head home.... not a 15 hour ride but a good 8 hour one. But we got to stop at Little America for a down home cook out under the tent.... the big tent and then on to home. What a great couple of weeks. Hope didn't ramble too much. but, there you go. amd here is the last link..... http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/pages/T09_HomewardBound

Shirt Tail Creek

2009-06-21T17:51:00.002-06:00

Dad - Here are the pictures of Shirt Tail Creek that you wanted me to post. I love ya!!! Happy Fathers Day!!! You are wonderful!!!!

Air Force Week in Review

2009-06-07T22:12:00.006-06:00

We have had an exceptionally exciting week!!! It has been Air Force week in Utah. Only 3 cities in the country will have the opportunity to have Air Force Week be celebrated in their city/state (Sacramento being one of the others!!!)

It started Monday with The signing of a proclamation at the State Capitol with the Govenor and Jake Garn. Then that evening a Bees Game where we had hamburger dinner behind center field, watched parachuters , saw the general, sat by Col Williams, and then ran for the car during the 5th inning because a HUGE rainstorm was starting.

Tuesday Brent got up early and headed for the Air Nat. Guard Airport where he ate breakfast, and went up in a C135 tanker with 20 other mayors from the area and flew to Mt Home Idaho where

he got to lay on his belly and watch the airman refuel A15s. If you watch closely in the video you can see the gas line decending and then attaching to the plane (the plane jerks a little when it attaches.... that is your clue) This is all at an altitude of 20,000 ft or so and going 500mph. DO NOT TRY THIS ON YOUR OWN!!!

Wednesday we went to the Utah Test and Training Range (UTTR) in the Salt Flats close to Wendover. We thought it was going to be a group like he was in Tuesday - - Oh No - - were we wrong!!! There were 10 buses of us!!!! We first saw the parachute team of Cadets who did a show for us. Then we drove out to the control tower and watched F16s demonstrate bombing practice and strafing . Strafing was my favorite.... they had a HUGE target that they shot at as they flew by. From there we went to a viewing area and watched them do a test burn of a Minute Man Rocket. Pretty intense. You can see how far away we are and notice the 3-4 story building next to it... you can see it close up in the next picture and can see the workers next to the building for perspecive. Then back on the buses and off to watch them blow up a Titan

Missle Booster. It was only a "little one" because of atmospheric conditions, but you could still see the sound waves and feel the wind from it.... and we were miles away! After all that excitement it was back on the bus (with our box lunches) for the 1 1/2 hour drive home. It felt like a dress rehearsal for choir tour in a couple of weeks.... 6 hours on lots of buses with lots of people, a few stops on the way, box lunches and back on the bus. That evening we partnered up with Gary and Jill Poll and went to a concert at Abravanel Hall and Saw Tops in Blue Concert. Great show with high intensity!!

Thursday The Choir did a concert after rehearsal Dedicated to the Airforce. There was a great crowd and they seemed to really enjoy it.

Friday we attended a special reception for the Thunderbirds (who were at the concert the night before) and lots of good food!!

Sat was the air show. We got cought up in "Honey Do"s and didn't get there until just in time for the Thunderbird show. WOW what a show it was!!! we had front row seats and LOVED the show. These are amazing pilots that can do unbelievable things with those beautiful planes. We have see them before when they have been here, but it has always been sitting on the lawn and watching them fly overhead. We were in the fenced area. Notice the support personel. They were as choreographed as the fliers... we were very impressed. To be there on there on the runway they were less than 100 feet away. It was a once in a lifetime event that we are very happy to have had.

OHIO

2009-05-29T12:22:00.008-06:00

Brent had to brag about his trip to Sac.... so I am going to do the same with OHIO!!! Got to go spend a few days with the Beazers and what a time it was!! C had his Big #2 Birthday and look at how grown-up he looks!

No, he is not behind bars.... he is playing on the front porch!! And here he is with his beautiful big sister.

He and L went on their first bike outings for the summer (actually it is big wheel and tricycle - but that is too much to type so we will just say BIKE)

They were so proud of their new helmets and knee and shoulder pads....

We went to the Asian Festival on Sat... and ate well and were well entertained. One of the new culture events I was introduced to was a ball game that is (to me anyway) a combination of Volleyball, hacky sack, and soccer. There were 3 men on each team - a ball that looked like wicker(loosely woven and with holes), but was hard plastic - No touching with hands, so it was kicked and head butted, and played with a net (about head high on the men) . I will give you a brief video of part of the game.... it was amazing!!

It was a little scary too when one would kick it the same time another was trying to hit it with his head!!! This gives you a little feel of it... I think Brooke has a better video... so maybe she will put it on her blog and you can see more there. But here is a picture....

If you look closely you can see how high they jump to kick and in what position they do it... most un-natural.... it was amazing.

House Potential

2009-05-24T16:14:00.003-06:00

This is the house that Dani will be putting a offer in for tomorrow.

This is the club house for the house I am looking at. You can see my nextdoor neighbor's house on the right. It is brown.

Kayaking in Sacramento

2009-05-24T16:00:00.003-06:00

Dani & Brent Kayaking in Sacramento this weekend. First on the American River in Rancho Cordova.

Then we went to Ice House Reservoir

And finished up on the American River in Folsom. We paddeled up to the Folsom Prison were Johnny Cash was luck enough to stay. That is it sitting on the side of the hill.

Spring has Sprung and We is Happy!!!

2009-04-19T21:33:00.005-06:00

HAPPY

What a wonderful UTAH Spring week! Had blizzard snowstorm to 70 degree beautiful spring day.

And we got to enjoy the variety of St George as well.... cold and rainy to warm and sunny (in only 3 days no less!)

Utah League of Cities and Towns had it's annual meeting in St. George this week and Mayor Petersen and wife got to spend a few wonderful days in that beautiful city. Thank you to Aunt Iris, who shared her cute Town home that is just a couple of blocks from the Temple. It was darling and was so nice of her to allow us to stay there.

Brent received instruction on lots of issues pertaining to running the city. Jan got to watch some demonstrations, and eat at the Fat Farm(Red Mountain Spa)

Sat. we headed home and met Val &Diane, Ashley &Mike, Mike's Mom, Dad, and Brother, and Neil Brienholt, and under the tour guide of Lindon Weekes ATVed to the top of the Lake Mountain which is in between the Oquirrh Mountains and Utah Lake. What a ride and what a view!!

These are at the top of the first leg of the trip. You can see the lake and the Wasatch Mountains in the background.

Then up the trail to the REAL top of the mountain.... The trail became snow packed and icy.... took an extra 1/2 hour to blaze a trail and get there..... but we did

And what a view it was!!!

Here are our fearless Trail guides, Brent and Linden..... Thanks guys!

SAD

Jess's Grma Smith fell and hurt her back.
We drove to ST George in a SNOW STORM!!!

New Associate Conductor

2009-03-27T07:49:00.004-06:00

Last night was a very busy rehearsal night. The new Associate conductor was announce and the press release is going out today. His name is Ryan Murphy and is currently in Boston at the New England Conservatory of Music. You can see the Church News release at the choir site http://mormontabernaclechoir.org/ .

We also had a guest conductor and David Archuleta made a surprise appearance. Sorry can't give you any more info than that.

HAPPY HAPPY SPRING

2009-03-22T21:52:00.006-06:00

HAPPY

My roses are happy that I got out there and actually paid them some attention for the first time in way toooooo many months. But, with the weather so beautiful and the sun shining..... how could I procrastinate any longer.

We spent part of Saturday helping Kim beautify her yard. It is amazing how a few flowers makes such a difference. Kim....... send pictures.!!

Kim and I are once again working on our goal to walk from the Ogden Temple to the Provo Temple. We originally wanted to walk across Utah ( width - I mean) but walking on main highways was becoming too much of a problem, So we decided to just chunk out the state one section at a time. Before Winter hit, we had walked from the Ogden Temple to Lagoon.

Last week we started again. We started at the Lagoon end of Legacy Parkway, and walked to Center Street in North Salt Lake. That was a long stretch for the first one of the season(10 miles) and we paid for it with shinsplints, sunburns, and sore muscles, but we sure had a good time!!! Here we are at the end of the line at the 1.5 mile marker. In Kim's pic you can see the building where we parked the car ...... the end is in sight!!!

By This Sat. we were all better and started where we left off at Center Street and headed South, finishing the Legacy trail and starting the Jordan River Parkway. This one was much more of a adventure. It was a dirt single track for the first little while, walking pass an ATV park in NSL where we got to watch lots of crazy motorcycle drivers jumping and soaring through the air. Then we crossed Redwood Rd where we found large TRAIL CLOSED signs. But it just looked like they were working on upgrading the trail during the week, and since it was the weekend............ we decided they didn't really mean it was closed....... so we walked on. Then another sign further on..... followed by a chain link fence!!!!! darn. So, we crossed to the other side of the river (there was a bridge) and got back on a single track. As we were walking we noticed that there were people walking on the paved trail, they must have gone around the fence. We weren't THAT brave! So we just kept on walking until we came to another sign that said TRAIL TEMPORARILY CLOSED, and this time it just stopped right in the middle of a golf course. My my, what an adventure.... what to do..... what else could one do..... keep on walking. So we walked through not one, but 2 golf courses, (still following the river of course) and what are all golf courses surrounded by???? Chain link fences!! So we got to the end of the course and we were trapped. River on one side (with a paved trail on the other side from us), chain link fence on 2 sides, and we are not about to go backwards, after all ..... we have a goal!!! so................................................ under the fence we go!! yep. these 2 grown women shimmied under a chain link fence right to the side of a busy highway, got up, brushed ourselves off...... and kept on going!! That was at about9th north or so and we continued without any more adventure to North Temple where Brent came and picked us up. It was a shorter (but more interesting) tresk this week(6.5 miles), and either we are in much better shape, or we didn't push ourselved hard enough, cuz .... we are doing great!!!(so far)

Well that is the summery of this week..... see you next week.

MARCH ALREADY!!!

2009-03-08T21:39:00.002-06:00

Feb has ended and March is really here. It is really hard to believe we are that far into the year already.

Happys:

* *More snowshoeing
* *I (jan) got to spend a week in OHIO with the Beazers.

What a blessing it is to be able to spend some time with them and watch them grow. We got to spend time at the ZOO

Played at COSI

Watched the 3D movie (Fly me to the Moon) there

and spent lots of time together

* *Weber Basin got behind the aquifer storage recharge program in the mouth of Weber Canyon (ask the mayor about what that really means!!)
* *Brent got to got to the SLC temple with Kim while I was in OHIO.
* * Mom Iris had her 81st birthday this last week. Therewas a great get together on Monday
and then on Thursday she got to sing with the choir at rehearsal.

** Davis Hospital gave us some tickets to the vs Houston game on Wednesday. We had great food and friends in the box, and to top it all off.... the Jazz won!!
** DATC has started moving into the new technology bldg. It is going to house the diesel mechanics, machining, drafting, electronics, indust. maintenence, web design, and IT programs. It is a beautiful bldg and Brent has done some great things to make it unique. Dedication is April 1st. If you want to come by some day after the dedication..... he will give you a personal tour!
**MY PIANO IS BACK!!!!! I have had a technition working on it for a couple of months and it is finished!!!! It is beautiful and sounds great!!

sads:

**Beazers still have the spring crud and I am afraid I finally succumbed to the bug

Grandpa's 80th

2009-02-23T18:53:00.005-07:00

Feb. 18th was Dad Speakman's 80th birthday. It was a good day to remember a great man who loved his family and set a great example of service and work ethic. One of his favorite sayings was "quit your belly aching" Marti found a x-stitch saying "kwitcherbellyakin" and gave it to Dad a while back. We all loved it so much that Kim and Jess stitched one for all of my siblings and now we all have one!!!

Brent and I went snowshoeing last Sat. I say snowshoeing a little tongue in cheek because I forgot to bring mine ... he. he. so I was walking the x-country groomed trail while Brent was stompin' in the powder. But it was still beautiful and lots of fun. It is so nice to have Snowbasin so close that we can hop up there in a 1/2 hour and be in the powder.

After snowshoeing we went to Kim's and helped her sheetrock part of her basement, and met her new roommate. She has the cutest condo. It is fun to watch her decorate and fix it up. She is the best aunt. She bought a blow-up pool and then dumped a whole bag of balls in it. Maggie is loving playing in it.

I am off to Ohio to play with the Beazers..... watch for pictures of the fun!!!

the 12 days of VALENTINES!!!

2009-02-15T16:26:00.005-07:00

For Valentines this year Jan surprised me with a gift a day for 12 days. It was GREAT!!(I think she had almost as much fun as I did) She ought to do this professionally :)
1st day : an e-card very nice 2nd: CD of Jan singing 3rd: A card when opened has Sony and Cher singing"You got me Babe" 4th: new bedspread 5th: the Dakota got a "heat attack" 6th: a fancy white chocolate heart ... the size of my fists 7th Picure book of our trip to Alaska 8th: 50 reasons why I Love you 9th: 2 Bamboo plants in the shape of a Heart. 10th: A picture book of our trip to Moab 11th : e-card 12th: surprise date ....

Other Happy's were: snowmobiling into Julander's Cabin (thanks Merryweathers for the MACHINES!) staying the night, playing Boggle, and then snowshoeing down to the meadow and watching the dippers. Then back out on the Machines (10 miles) in the snow It snowed lightly alllll night and day. Then to Carlos and Hurley's in Eden for some very good fresh mex. Also Jan is enjoying her Valentines Gardenia coursage.

Book Club (see Kim's blog "Bob" http://www.bingeonbooks.blogspot.com/) was lots of fun. We talked about books written before 1900.

Kim, Jess, and Magie came up for a bit this week. It is always fun to have them around. We got to spend some great time together and also with Grma Iris.

Got a darling Valentine Card From Lydia where she drew a picture of herself Gr. Pete and Nana swinging in the hammock.... with lots of Love sent with it. Thank you Lydia.

Sads: The gardenia plant is dying, and we don't know what to do for it. We have done everything we have been told and what we can think of, but it just keeps fading.
My nephew Ben is having some difficult times. It is always hard to see someone you love suffer and struggle. It makes you just want to twinkle your nose and make it all better.

Well, there you go for this week. We will add pictures of the cabin trip when we get them. Have a great week.

HAPPY VALENTINES TO YOU

2009-02-11T12:45:00.006-07:00

To everyone we wish a beautiful Valentine's Day. If you have a significant other or not... this is the day of friendships and Love, and we thank you for your friendship, support and love that we continue to feel from you in our lives. We wish that we could personally give you a big squeeze and tell you thanks.... but since we can't ..... we just sent you this wish and virtual hug.

Love you!!

The Mayor has been busy

2009-02-01T18:27:00.011-07:00

This has been a busy month for the Mayor. (and his assistant... he-he that's me)

He finished his 3 year stint on the Davis Chamber of Commerce Board 2 years of that on the executive committee. So at the annual banquet he was recognized and awarded a plaque.

He also got to go to the City Officials Day at the Legislature (Youth City Council took this picture of him and some of the council members)

Speaker for the Day was Joseph Ellis who wrote Founding Brothers (we just happen to have that book on tape)

He has been in the newspaper twice, and a LOT of meetings:
*2 city council meetings
*2 city council work meetings
*Central Weber Sewer Improvement District meeting (finance Committee)
*Wasatch Integrated Waste Management (Burn Plant) (Finance Committee)
*Department of Health Board
*Councils of Government
*Business Development Fund
*Northern Wasatch Regional Growth Committee
*Aquifer Storage Recharge Committee (Weber Basin Water)
*Dare Graduation for the Elementary School
*Handed out "I like Me Book"s to the first graders at the school (Rotary)

And that is in addition to the many hours a week he puts in at work and those meetings. Not to mention the choir and his ward assignment as employment specialist. (Which, with the current economy has become very important) He always comments when he has so many meetings what his father used to tell him....... "I can't believe that they pay you for sitting around in a room all day!" It helps to keep him humble.

His assistant has been busy spring cleaning and you DON'T want to see pictures of that!!

So, January comes to and end and we look forward to Feb.

The Whole Crew

2009-01-12T08:17:00.006-07:00

Yes there really was this many of us. Grandma Iris decided to fulfill a lifelong dream and take a cruise around the islands of Hawaii. Only she decided to do it with ALL of her posterity and everyone of them were there. Kids. Grandkids, and those especially darling Great-Grandkids!! What a week it was with us all over the boat. We had 3 special nights together. Each one started with us all eating together in the dining room... boy did the waiters love us, all 31 of us! It took them a couple of times to really figure out how to do it efficiently. But the finally got it down.

Monday was Family Home Evening, where Dani gave a lesson on the history of Hawaii and Kim sent us all on a scavenger hunt throughout the boat (and singing Christmas Carols to complete strangers).

We didn't serve refreshements.... are you kidding!! we are on a cruise ship.... refreshments 24/7.

Wednesday was Christmas Eve and Carrie did a great job of setting the mood for the holiday. She even gave a challenge for the year to increase our spirituality and added a gift for us individually to give the Savior.

Friday was game night and what a night of BUNKO it was. Erika and Diane got it all organized and they did a marvelous job and fun was had by all.

The rest of the days we were pretty much on our own. We did lots of shore excursions, driving around the islands, had beach time, kayaking (both river and ocean), eating, eating, eating, Zipping ( see below), snorkling ( we did our best at Kealakekua Bay where Capt. Cook spent his last hours... he was killed by the natives... but what a place to have as your last! There were dozens of dolphins swimming around that we kayaked by. (Kim went scuba diving one of the days, but the rest of us are too chicken!), and even went to Sacrament Meeting at a local ward. It was their Christmas Program, so it was good.

Well, That is a breif summery. Pics and more info to come.... but it was such a great week, can only do part of it at a time. Stay Tuned! --- Yes this is the way we felt after a week together... can there be more fun than this!!

Zip Line

2009-01-12T07:37:00.006-07:00

This is the Longest Zip line I have ever heard of!!!! It was as long as 2 football fields!! It was the 7th in a series that we did while on our Holiday in Hawaii. Brent and I, Dani, Brooke and Q, Jess and Drew and Grandma all had a blast zipping through the air (with the greatest of ease I might add). You have been watching Q fly in this particular video. I have one of Brooke too, but you have to tilt you head to the side to watch most of it.... the camera person forgot you can't just rotate the video (oopps)

Kim got to play on the boat with the 3 yunguns (aren't they cute)!.... they weren't allowed (can you see why).

By the way.... it is said that speeds up to 45 mph are possible when ZIPPING along this particular line (What a blast!!)

Happy January to you!!

2009-01-11T21:33:00.003-07:00

A big happy is that we finally got a chance to do Happy and Sads. It has been a long time and it is good to get back to normal.

Happy was that we got to go to HAWAII for Christmas with all of our family. More information on that to come.... but you can see a preview by going to Jess, Carrie, and Kim's blogs.

Happy was that all the big snow storms happened while we were gone and we have had lots of sunshine (cold but sunny) since we got back.

Happy to be able to get out of our new concrete driveway. They finally shaved off part of the top so the car doesn't scrape bottom when we drive out. Pictures to come.

Happy that everyone got home safe and sound.

Sad that Grma Speakman wasn't here to enjoy the holidays with us. We miss her, but are happy that she got to spend the Christmas season and the rest of her life with Daddy, her family and the person who made Christmas Possible.

Happy that the new year brings many possibilities and hope for the future. Best to you and all of yours.

Love and hugs
Brent and Jan

PS...... notice our new family picture??!!!!!

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-11-26T09:56:00.003-07:00

Thanksgiving is over and I hope it was wonderful for you. Getting together with family is one of my favorite activities. Mom is staying at Lori's for now and we are spending a lot of time there. She is getting weaker, thinner, and sleeping most of the time. Remember her blog will give you many more pic and details of how she is doing.

Christmas Concert this year is a week earlier, so life is a little busy right now. But it is a good thing it is early, because Grma Iris has arranged for all of her family to go to Hawaii for Christmas!!! It will be fun to post those pictures of a warm and family filled Christmas when we get back.

We hope all is well with you and that the source and purpose of this season is in your heart and mind.

Merry Christmas
Brent and Jan

A month later

2008-11-04T15:45:00.004-07:00

Wow, has it really been a month since the last post? A lot has happened in that time. Mom has been staying at our house with a couple of trips to my sisters in Utah Valley for a few days each. She is really doing quite well, especially for a lady who was suppose to be dead a month ago. Hope you have been keeping up with her blog, It can chronicle the whole journey for you.

In addition to Mom and her adventure, our street has been under construction. We have not been able to get into our driveway for over 2 weeks. So we are parking up at Mom Petersen's and walking back and forth. We now are the proud owners of a sidewalk and cement driveway. We don't have a paved road yet... in fact today (snowing) it is pretty muddy and really a mess, but hopefully when it gets done in a few weeks.... it will be really nice.

Jess and Drew have moved into their new house... It is on the hill in North Salt Lake. And this last week, not only J&D started at a new ward, but Kim started going to her home ward, and Brooke and Q and their family started going to their home ward, also. It has been a transition week....

Dani has been spending every spare minute she has making calls for Prop 8 in Sacramento. Life is not boring is it!!

Happy Election Day.

For those of you who don't know

2008-10-01T07:52:00.003-06:00

Mom is in the hospital and is going into surgery today to remove a blockage in her small intestines. This will be a quick (ha-ha) fix so she can get her "trunk" (NG tube) removed. She is also dealing with stage 4 (4 out of 4) Ovarian Cancer. To get the whole scoop on her we have created a blog to keep you up to date..... it is bettyspeakman.blogspot.com . You are more than welcome to visit it.
She is always the life of the party and we are definately having a party in her hospital room!!!
Thanks for all your love and support.

Families

2008-09-16T20:02:00.002-06:00

Hi All -

Just wanted to post about a website. www.protectmarriage.com It is the website for those in support of Proposition 8 that is on the California ballot this fall. It will make it so that marriage can only be between a man and a woman in California. Californians could really use some help with it. Go to the website and read about it and if you can donate to the cause.

Thanks,

Dani

Summer is wonderful!!

2008-09-10T10:13:00.006-06:00

However it is almost over.... technically it is, but we are trying to stretch it as far as we can.

Brent just got one of his dreams to come true......... He has always wanted a Ford Mustang and he finally got one.

Here is L taking a ride in the "tang" she thought it was really cool to be riding in a car with no roof!!

We also got to go on a cruise to Alaska during the last few weeks. It was a wonderful experience... someone said "it was like being in a National Geographic" it was so beautiful. Here we are in Ketchakan when we got off the boat for the first time

Then after seeing an awsome logging show we went kayaking across the channel

In Juno we canoed across a lake to the Mendenhall Glacier.... what an experience that was!! it was HUGE and that waterfall we named the little Niagra...... we loved it!!

2008-07-22T08:31:00.006-06:00

Yep, Brent has returned to politics. Fortunately for us, he didn't have to run or do a campaign ... He was appointed to replace our past mayor who had to resign because of an out of town job. So for the next 18 months he will be working 50 hours a week, 20+ hours of mayoralizing, and choir volunteering. It should be an interesting time. He has a lot to bring to the table for the city, so we are excited to see what he can do in that short of a time period. Should be interesting.!!!

dumb

2008-07-15T23:44:00.002-06:00

I really don't like that "SLIDE" program I used for the kayaking in E Canyon. If I could figure out how to delete it..... I would. But since I can't and you don't want to see all the advertisements that come with it..... just X out of it in the upper R corner and you will be able to see the pics, but not the adv.

Sorry

4th of July Weekend

2008-07-06T19:25:00.006-06:00

We had a great weekend!!!
Dani flew in to help Kim paint her new place and go kayaking with her Dad. They floated the river on Friday and then on Sat. They went to Causie with the rest of the Family and had a great time floating the lake.

Summer Continues

2008-06-22T17:03:00.007-06:00

As you can see, We had another great kayaking weekend. We went to East Canyon and Brent paddled around the lake and the river. He especially liked the little rapids that he got to zip through.

Then while enjoying the rest of the weekend at the Homestead Resort, we drove to the top of Snake Creek Canyon and found this beautiful waterfall.

Needless to say it was a great weekend.

More Toys

2008-06-19T11:33:00.005-06:00

Dad really loved Kayaking with Dani.... so much that he wanted his own.... here are pics of his maiden voyage with his new Coleman Kayak.

Then I got brave and decided to take a paddle on the little lake/pond in Uintah right next to the river. What a beautiful day!!

2008-06-11T07:08:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday Dani!!

Brent went to Sac. this weekend to surprise Dani with a visit.

Then he took her to town to buy a Kayak and they spent the weekend Kayaking on many different lakes and rivers. They had a wonderful weekend and a great "Daddy Daughter Date".

It fit's perfectly on the car.

Exploring the corners of the lake.

Accompanied by local residents.

There is nothing as beautiful and the mountains by Tahoe!!

Happiness.... Dad is a Kayak convert.

Serenity at it's peek.

Mt. Diablo

2008-05-10T19:37:00.002-06:00

So, I went camping the other day and some friends took some pictures, so I thought I would share. This first one is of me and a friend on a little jont before breakfast.

This one is the view on top of Mt. Diablo (by Dansville, Ca if you know where that is) I think this is the view looking towards Sacramento, but if you look the other was you are looking at San Francisco bay.

This one is of our campsite.

Fun eh?

Dad's new toy

2008-05-04T18:53:00.004-06:00

As you can see Dad has a new toy. Oh, wait a minute.... it isn't a toy it is a gas saver. His plan is to ride the bus from the park and ride to Kaysville, and then ride the scooter to work from there. (about a mile and a 1/2)

It is battery operated so there is no gas consumption. Great idea don't you think!!!

We are trying hard to save where we can. We are trying to combine trips so as not to drive into town every day. Walking to school is a good option for me. Especially since I am needing to get a LOT of miles under these shoes of mine. Only one more week and Kim and I are doing the first big one. We will be walking from the airport to Tooele. About 16 miles of the 300 or so we want to do. One step at a time.

MMM

2008-04-23T09:10:00.001-06:00

Looks like I need to start updating again.... Sorry I have neglected this site.... must repent... maybe next week!!

2008-02-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

Hi KIM!!!

This ones for you babe du du du du this ones for you babe

January 31, 2008

2008-02-01T10:39:00.000-07:00

A MOUNTAIN TOP EXPERIENCE

Last night was one of the most tender and special evenings of my life. After having a wonderful choir rehersal where there was a lot of memories and songs about, by, and beloved by Pres. Hinckley, we had the amazing opportunity to have a private viewing of the Prophet.

We were escorted to the Conf. Center where apx 400 of us surrounded the casket and got to spend a few quiet moments in our private thoughts. Then Elder Hinckley spoke to us and told us of Pres. Hinckleys love for the choir and expressed the families gratitude for bringing such happiness and joy to their father.

Then we had the blessing of being able to sing. We sang "We Thank The Oh God For A Prophet", "Abide With Me 'Tis Eventide", and "God Be With You". It was a very tender few minutes which reminded me of the wonderful blessing it is in my life to be in the choir. I am blessed beyond words to experience moments like this. I do not know why Heavenly Father granted me this blessing, but I recognize His hand in it, and am thankful for it.

After singing and passing by the casket again, we walked past the flowers and memorials that had been set up. I was very impressed with the simplicity of the arrangements by the family. Large vases of just long stem roses and tulips. Nothing extravagant and traditional in the large family arrangements that usually are present at funerals. But, on each arrangement was notes of love and gratitude for a loving father, grfather, and gr-grfather. I particularly love the Gr-grchildren's arrangement. Again simple vase of flowers.... but attached to it was a large letter that said (I paraphrase):

We will be Grateful.

We will be Smart.

We will be Clean.

We will be True.

We will be Humble.

Because we Love you.

and then it was signed by each of the families and the Gr Grandchildren.

It was very beautiful and touching.

A beautiful evening of blessings and remembrances of an amazing man who touch my life as well as millions of others in a very personal way.

A wonderful Christmas Holiday

2008-01-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

This holiday will be remembered as a tradition starting one. We had the wonderful oportunity to be all together for an extended period of time and strengthen the bonds of our family. We were blessed to have a family friend loan us their cabin for a week and we did the first "Jan and Brent Petersen Escape Reunion" I know that is a long name... we are open for suggestions!! But that is exactly what it was. We ran away from the world and spent time with just each other.

We were able to create some wonderful traditions and have a laughing good time. Here are some of our favorites:

1. The Balloon Room. Kim had the great idea to fill up a room with balloons and then play!! and we did. It wasn't just L & C that had fun... as you can see by the pictures... it was a free for all and fun for all.

M is still too young to enjoy playing the balloons this year....... but just wait until next year... she will be right in the middle of it!!

Aren't these the cutest kids in the state!!!! (oh wait... Brent said that was wrong.... it has to be the world.... at least!!)

#2 Gingerbread houses. There was major creative juices flowing that night. We had mansions, trains, cabins, and houses. Here is the process and then the results.

#3 Snow Play. Snow played a major part in this party. We pushed cars out of snow banks, snowshoed, tubed, went sledding, and of course snowmobiling. Those from out of state really loved the opportunity to play in the cold and white stuff.

Doesn't it look like fun!!

Here are some after Christmas memories. L &c are playing under the biggest and most exciting Christmas Tree we ever had the pleasure of decorating. It began it's life as our Christmas tree about 30 years ago in the old SW Drive house. We bought it in a bucket and as soon as Christmas was over, we planted it across the street from our old house where we thought we were going to build our new one. But things didn't work out there and we built here. So a few years later we had a friend go over there with his front loader and move it to our front yard. Now 30 years later.... it had started to struggle and it was time to take it out. So, of course.... it had to finish it's life as a Christmas tree again. We used only the top 15 feet of the 40' tree and brought it in. It was an adventure.

And to top the holiday off, it was time for L to get her official name and blessing. It was another celebration with lots of friends and family.

So, after that long discription.... no bragging.... just fact, you can see it was a most wonderful holiday at the Petersen household!

Happy New Year

2008-01-02T13:53:00.000-07:00

Kim -

This one is for you. I am posting so that you can't say no one has posted for months and months. I know I just saw you all, but hey!!

the rest of the tour??!!??

2007-10-21T18:50:00.000-06:00

It is a little down the road and a lot of stuff that has been going on since, but to keep our promise we decided we had better finish the choir tour on the blog.

Leaving Cleveland and the Blossom Festival we head for the Windy City of Chicago. We had to drive into the city early in the day to avoid traffic, so we were given time to visit some of the sites of Chicago. We chose to go to the Natural History Museum. And guess who we saw there??

Yep.... there he is! The Dino from Night at the Museum. That was probably the most exciting thing there. Dad really wanted to see the dioramas like in the movie.... and we couldn't find them... so we went and asked the lady at the help desk and she looked at us like we were from mars. She said that they might have some in the storage basement... but she didn't know what they were of, and that we would have to get permission from the director of the museum to even go down there. She really didn't think they had had one on display for decades. mmm..... don't think they filmed that part here.

The concert was pretty cool. The cicadas didn't end up being such a big deal like they thought it was going to be.... but we did see a few. The funnest part was Brent's interaction with the audience and watching their faces. He was laking to a couple behind him and they had a nice little chat, they were Catholic. They said they didn't believe like us, but they sure liked the choir. Dad told them that they would really like the encore. They were blown away with the concert, but when the Archbishop Francis Cardinal George appeared on stage to conduct us they were ecstatic. (The choir can really reach out and touch people of all religions and backgrounds)

On to Cincinnati. This is going to be one of our favorite stops because the Beazers are coming up to meet us and spend the night. We got to spend some time with them and go to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. They got to eat some Cincinnati chili while I was practicing and then off to the Riverbend for the Concert. It was really fun for Dad 'cuz he got to sit with them during the concert. My favorite part is when Lydia came up on stage with Grandpa and was standing in the wings during intermission saying hello to me!!! It made my day.

After Cincinnati was Nashville - I got to see the ORIGINAL Grand Ol' Opry and watch my first concert on tour from the audience. I had developed a cough and wanted to not only not cough on stage but also save my voice for the next day in Memphis where my cousin Anita was. It was the first time the choir was wearing the new dresses on tour and I was watching from the audience.

Next came Memphis, with Anita, Elvis and lots of things that we didn't participate in. Hold on.... I will explain.

Anita was on the ticket committee for her stake and so she was deeply involved in our coming. In fact, as soon as we got there, she picked us up and took us to a regional fireside that Lloyd Newell was talking at. And she gave the closing prayer. Then we went to her home and talked with her and her husband for a while. It was fun to get caught up with her and her family. The next day was ELVIS day. We went to his house and took the grand tour and listened to all the stories and saw all the displays. Truely... I was impressed. He really did a lot with his money and took care of his mom and others whom he loved. We spent the rest of the day driving Memphis and doing lunch. I really loved spending some time with her and feeling of her beautiful spirit. The choir was doing some extra stuff that we missed. One of them was singing for a 10 year old member who was there getting some cancer treatment. Someone in the choir new someone who knew her and knew she and her family wanted to go to the concert, but she couldn't because her body was do weak. So they ask a few to meet her in the hotel lobby and sing a few songs for her. Well I guess it ended up being over 1/2 of the choir. they filled the mezzanines and lobby.

The concert that night was another first. It was the first concert I left - ever - in the middle of. I started coughing and it was not a happy thing. So I left at intermission. I went to the dressing room (The men's hockey team changing room) I had hung my street clothes on one of the shower heads in the shower - there wasn't a lot of places to hang dresses in a hockey locker room.!! Low and behold the shower leaked!!! and my clothes were wet. So this evening got even more memorable. With no blow driers (in a locker room???) I just put on wet clothes and watched my second concert from the balcony.

Even though the last 2 concerts were weird. The trip was a great experience, lots of great concerts and people to meet and see. And Dad got to see CORBIN and LYDIA - oh yeah, Brooke and Q , too!!!

So there you have it Choir Tour 2007.

Love and hugs.

Mom and Dad

Family Reunion

2007-10-12T19:26:00.000-06:00

OK all-

Just working on the Reunion. This is proving more complex than planned. Here's where we're at:

Beazers arrive the 17th of December. We are available that week or from the 28th to the 2nd. What works best for others? Mom pointed out that for Dad after Christmas would be better.

We have East Canyon reserved for the 17th-22nd. Can we see if it's open for the 28th through the 2nd? Everyone ask around for available cabins or other ideas -- we are open to whatever.

Home James

2007-10-12T09:23:00.000-06:00

Sads -

Sick - Got a dumb cold from coworkers and roomates.

Happies -

Canada Trip

Conference!!!!!!

I get to have a life again . . . kinda

Talked to my new boss on Wed. and got real excited about what is comming up.

Love you all

Just around the corner...

2007-09-25T15:09:00.000-06:00

5 more weeks, kim is here, another week and all the showers will be done, we hired someone for my job, our bassinette is set up, maggie continues to grow (and grow and grow) and move (and kick and push and poke), i'm starting to feel the braxton-hicks...i think this means that she's coming soon...AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

Test

2007-09-13T12:37:00.000-06:00

Just to update you all, Quintin passed the first of his Econ Master tests! I'm proud of him -- it was an ugly test and we're both glad to have it behind us. That means he's got 1/2 a Masters and after classes this year and one more test he'll have the full Masters. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers!

. . .

2007-09-12T14:32:00.001-06:00

Oh I forgot to tell you - The three pictures in the middle are the same spot. Well like big medium and smaller. As I got closer I took more pictures. ok I think you get it.

Dani's Travels

2007-09-12T13:50:00.000-06:00

Just thought I would show y'all where I had been between seen ya. Enjoy

Ignore the bugs on the windshield. It really was the most breath taking. I saw it a bunch of othertimes, but didn't ever get a really good picture. The Mountains were just magnificant.

Dad - This is when I called you about the cabin. I know you want one that is less than an hour away. This one is close to an a hour . . . a couple times over . . . hour to the airport. . . hour filight (this might be a strech - my flight was around an hour and you would need to fly to a tiny airport for the next step to be close to an hour and they only take really small planes - though you might be able to get close to the hour if you fly to the airport about 1/2 hour north of the small one). . . and hour drive . . . see it works out.

Mom - this one is for you - took just cuz I was thinking of you and that you would enjoy it

Hap Hap Hap Hap Happy

2007-09-10T09:14:00.000-06:00

I don't have any pictures to post right now, but Mom's post reminded me that I'm getting behind too...

SAD
Everyone went home
My lower back hurts during the day and my upper back hurts all night (at least they take turns!)
Even when everyone was here, work/school still got in the way and I didn't get to see everyone as much as I wanted to
Drew never stops being busy

HAPPY
My family is the BEST
That we always manage to have fun together
The next time we see Dani and Brooke we will have a baby!!
My massage
Church is at 1:00 now and I don't have to set the alarm
Everyone is SUPER generous and we got lots of great stuff for our shower
FALL IS HERE!!!

August at the Petersen House

2007-09-09T19:28:00.000-06:00

Yes, as you can see, it was a wonderful August.

We are ready to do our happys and sads.

We are going to go backwards and start with the last couple of days. The choir did another recording. This one was to honor Mac Wilberg and his amazing music. We recorded this last week and concluded it on Sat. It still suprises me when I am reminded what a spiritual experience it is. Even after all these years... It still catches me off guard.

Dad says: I went up to Preston, ID with Val and Dave Chrittenden and headed East to the head waters of the Cub River. The trail was very green with moss on all the rocks. The headwaters come bubbling out of the base of a granite cliff. Then we went up the German Dugway, (sad: Dad got stug in the neck by a wasp - he said "now I know how Edward Feels"), where some folks from Preston gave us some chocolate chips cookies, then we went over to the Paris Ice Caves. In the ice caves, Dave slipped on the ice and fell and cracked his elbow. We then went to Bloomington Lake where we met Ranger Rory Young from Arko Idaho who knew one of Val's mission companions. Bloomington Lake was beautiful, but a young man had drowned there last week, it is pretty cold. Someone was having a wedding up there just before we got there. On the return trip we tool 7 mile single track that Ranger Rory told us about. It was VERY NICE.

Other happys: Thursday the Davis County Chamber had their Gala. It was the tux and gown affair. the theme was "007" The food was picturesque and the dessert was a chocolate martini glass filled with pina colada whipped cream and white chocolate stiring sticks and a slice of star fruit on the edge. On the plate was 2 flashing die. Yatzee will never be the same. Sheena Easton was the entertainment. The theme was really cute with lots of James Bond stuff around and Sheena singing the theme for the fanale. If you have a party to through this year (007) that would be a great theme... it only comes around once a century.

It is cooling off!!

We got to see Dani 4 times this month!!

We got to see B,Q,L,C, for 2 week + this month!!!

We got to see Jess and Drew a lot more than usual!!!

We got to see Kim a whole week longer than planned.!!!

Jess's shower was fun.

The Carroll Reunion was well done and informative if any of you want a copy of the CD that they put together about hostory and lots of picutures and maps, let us know and we will make you a copy.

East Canyon and the Verlo Petersen Family Reunion was great. Loved swimming and playing in the water park with Lydia. Learned to love Oriental sloppy joes. Butter carving was a new experience. Learned what to do and what not to do and got some good ideas to make next year better. Flower Dodge Ball is definately going to be a tradition.

We are glad that we had the Petersen Pow Wow and can't wait for our own personal reunion in a few months.

Sads:

everyone went home.

It was really sad that I got sick while everyone was here. I felt bad that I increased everyones stress and worry about kids and selves getting sick because of me.

We are really sad that we waited this long to get this done and are so far behind. But our hope is to get the rest of tour, Yosemite, July, and the upcoming Canada, all taken car of soon so that we don't get so far behind again.

But until then..... have a great week and know that we love you and miss you.

Mom and Dad

SPOONS!

2007-08-12T18:21:00.000-06:00

well about 75% of you will really completely understand. . .FORKS WAS AWESOME!!!

happies

* i truly love camping why cant it be done more often

* i love being a bookaholic, it opens up so many worlds

* as much as i love Oregon and i will probably have some separation anxiety, i am getting very anxious to move

* i cant wait to have book moments and quilting moments and four wheeling moments, and baby moments with my family!

* it really is a good feeling knowing your bosses love you so much they want you to stick around (lets hope ALL my bosses want me to stick around)

* God is truly an artist!

* saw the movie Stardust, its was so good a feel good like Princess Bride

sads

* once i make a decision i have no patience, i want to go NOW!

* i can not seem to master self control! and i hate the vulnerability of it!!

* Pres. Faust is loved and will be missed

* people are dumb (why are we the only smart ones, it seems unfair!)

* the girls working at the pharmacy in FORKS still have not gotten their copy of Eclipse because the store sold out before they got there . . . that is a true travesty

Happy- 1 more week!

2007-08-10T19:54:00.000-06:00

It's almost here! Only a week to go. Now that's something to be happy about. Thanks Mom for all your efforts to find us car seats and a stroller and a pack 'n play.

Corbin has been hilarious in his determination to find his thumbs. He will snort and slurp and growl forever as he's trying to convince them to not only get to his mouth, but to stay in. When he gets them in he is content to lay as still as possible for as long as possible to enjoy the fruits of his labors. Here's a shot of him really getting into it.

I'm happy about Kim's move. I can't wait to see all the fun that comes from it (though I am a bit jealous -- I wasn't kidding about using that extra PT to come and visit OHIO).

Just talked to Karene -- no baby yet but probably sometime this month!

Here's a good shot of his eye color:

Great People Good Life

2007-08-03T10:58:00.000-06:00

I guess I should do some quick happies and sads...

SAD
`No more vacations ever without a little one! (That's a happy too really)
`Not enough time in a day to get everything done.
`Our grape tomato plant hit the dust.
`My back is starting to ache all the time.

HAPPY
`We went to our first childbirth class and already learned a bunch.
`Dad will be happy that we even did some visualizations (something with a lake and a boat), but I couldn't help but think about walking through the field to the building with the treasure.
`We are going camping tonight
`We got to take the boat out again last week
`We went to a demolition derby (SAD: the guy in front of us went through 3 cigars throughout the evening)
`Grandpa Pete saved maggie's afghan. I was giving up, but she taught me her stitch and now I'm almost 1/2 way done!
`Maggie is moving and rolling around like crazy
`Mom gave me a maternity massage for my birthday and i am DYING to go get one

2007-08-03T10:42:00.002-06:00

I thought I would put different pictures on different posts - so hopefully you will get something new lookking at each blog.

These are pretty big boys, so these must be pretty big trees!

Here is Fanny and a tree - the tree looks huge and it was even a small one!

This was one of the fallen giants. These are just part of the roots!!

Don't we have the cutest grandmas ever?

This picture is for the family's eyes and the family's eyes only. I must preface that this is after the 3 hour detour Dad couldn't live without. I only had my Sunday shoes with me so I had to wear Dad's shoes and I didn't have a hat so I had to wear Diane's hankercheif. I wanted to start singing something from Fiddler.

I should have put this one on the Petersen blog. It was the grandmother's of the trip.

We're Back!

2007-07-31T21:11:00.000-06:00

Hey, y'all.... we finally (I finally) figured out how to get back on this thing. (Well I thought I did.... I still can't get the pictures in the right place.) (still working on it)Can we tell you how much we love this thing. We love reading your writings and seeing the pictures.... it is almost as good as a letter.

Kim we are really glad that you are a quick learner when it comes to sailing. Don't let anyone tell you you aren't.

L - WAHOO.... we love those new big girl panties.... you are so grown up.

It is now time for this week's H&S

:-)

We got to see Dani!!!! and Spend the weekend with Jess and Drew.

We got to see the beautiful Yosemite. - Half Dome, El Capitan, Bridal Vail Falls, Hetch Hetchie, Bass Lake, and Angel's Camp - Home of the Frog Festival. We got to go to a Farmer's Market there - no frogs but a lot of belly dancers!

Had a nice van to carry everyone around in - THANK YOU DANI!!!!

Finished folding Dani's quilt blocks. Now all she has to do is sew them all together.

Ate at the Wawona Restaurant at the south end of Yosemite. It was Jess's B-day dinner - it reminded me of Somewhere in time. (The week before we ate Yak at Jasoh in Ogden - YUMMY)

Our Condos were really nice and comfortable. We got to spend 2 nights in each place. THANKS JESS AND DREW!!!!

Winding roads with beautiful trees in the Sierra Nevadas.

Giant Sequoias.

I am reading (no listening) to the 6th book of the Mitford Series - Highly recommended.

Dad finished Orson Scott Card's new book EMPIRE. He says it is Very good.

After cleaning out the shed we finally got all the junk taken to the dump. AAHH. that feels good.

Sacramento Airports Giant suitcase piles.

:-(

Entryway floor is popping up. Guess the moisture from the new swamp cooler is a little too much for it.

WEEDS

Jess and Dad were sick on our trip.

WEEDS

Yosemite was in a drought. No Yosemite Falls... just Yosemite weeping cliff. Bridal Vail Falls were just a mist in the light.

Winding roads in the Sierra Nevadas - that went on forever!!!

Dani didn't get to come home with us.

Well.... I guess that is enough for now.... I will try and post some pictures.... see if I can figure this out.

Love you all bunches.

Mom and Dad

This is Grma and Grma after the gruelling hike to the Beautiful Navajo Falls.... the falls actually had water!

Looking the other direction on the bridge you can see how beautiful it is.

V&D's red convertable.... fun ride!

Diane gave Jess a teddy bear dressed like a giraffe for her birthday... so they decided to practice....

A Sailors Life for me

2007-07-24T20:18:00.001-06:00

here is a cool picture of the draw bridge that is opened just for us as we pass through, it was a swing one not a raising one . . you cant tell really but it is perpendicular to the actual bridge as we pass through in this pic.

this is a view from the safely docked boat . . . viewing all the boats and slips narrowly missed... if you haven't heard our near death (of the boat) story, and how guided by the hand of the Lord i managed to get the boat safely docked with out one scratch . . call me :0 )

FAMILY COUNCIL

2007-07-24T20:06:00.000-06:00

ok kido's its time for Family Council . .Why . . well cuz i said so and I'm the oldest and i hold the birthright...... and NO YOU CAN NOT HAVE ANY OF MY PORIDGE!

so me and mom and Brooke have been muling over an idea (Brooke's original) and i have taking the initiative to put it into action.. as we are staring to spread out in numbers and miles, it is time that we plan time together that is not split between in-laws, friends and distractions, just the Pete's and no one else. it doesn't have to be exotic or fanciful, just a few days away from all the rest. i.e. a few days at a cabin, a few days at a time share, a few days even in the same area but not where we can be reached . . so i have put together a few guidelines and assignments, I'd like each of you to reply with your input . . ideas . . suggestions . . complaints . . concerns . . etc...

each year one family (or kim, or dani) will be the Great Dalmuti. The Job of the Great Dalmuti will be as follows.
* Pick a Date
* Pick a Time
*Delegation to Peons of assignments - i.e. food, activities, musical numbers, etc.
* coordinate with everyone else to make the above convenient, for time and money.

(example... Cabin stay at the San Juan Islands, July 15, 2008 / Time Share at East Canyon, October 21st, 2009 / Camping in the Uintahs, June 30th, 2010)

Since it was Brooke's idea she should have 2008
Jessica 2009
Mom and Dad 2010
Dani 2011
me 2012
these can be rearranged, or swapped, i just threw out names at random.
let me know what you think!!

Happy/Sad

2007-07-18T10:54:00.000-06:00

I know I've been MIA, but I had blogger overload stress. Hopefully I'll get caught up on the other ones soon too.

SAD
Back hurts and I realized that co-pays of only $15 a visit can add up when you're going 2-3 times a week.
I am not meeting my goal to bed before 11:30pm. At least I'm getting better at not going down at midnight!
I have lopsided hips (I knew I wasn't just imagining things).

HAPPY
Lydia is potty-trained (she's showing off her undies she picked out at the store)! It has gone so well! She has blown me away with how quickly and easily she's caught on. She's even doing great over at friends or at the ice cream store. What a big girl!

We're going to North Carolina to see the Bennetts next weekend.

Nice weather, lots of fun things to do!

This month has been GREAT with John moved out (they finally picked up his HUGE pile of junk and garbage after two weeks of rotting) we have been enjoying fresh air in our home! Now we're trying to find someone to come and live next to us that doesn't smoke -- cross your fingers that we'll find someone before the management company does.

Kim sent Corbin's awesome blankie and lots of fun surprises (I told Quintin that he could listen to my CD... that was his surprise). THANKS!

Went swimming with the Buxtons, Farley, and Robbs. Corbin wasn't hugely excited about the water but he did pretty good for his first time. Lydia had a great time with her "floating swimsuit."

Just in case I didn't mention it... we had an awesome time in Cincinnati and with Mary and Shane. I'll do those updates on the beazer blog.

loves!

Early Mid July

2007-07-17T09:20:00.000-06:00

Happy -

I get to see Mom and Dad - Jess and Drew - Grandma and Grandma - Val and Diane in 3 days!!!!!!!

I am ushering at a theater - Free shows - way cool. (Maybe Wicked will get there in 10 yrs and I will see it)

Got to play basketball last night.

I know a lot of great people here in Sac.

Have been able to talk with my MIA roomate.

2007-07-10T08:36:00.000-06:00

SAD
~I had to go buy new pants because my maternity ones were too small (go figure)
~I think my jaw is dislocated and I haven't been able to open my mouth more than an inch for the past week.
~There are lots of really big fires going on right now
~The heat is starting to bug me
~Our garden is being taken over by squirrels, rabbits, birds, mice and bugs. grr.

HAPPY
~Brooke and I finally got to chat (it's only been a few months for heaven's sake)
~We got to hang out with mom and dad and the grandma's on the 4th
~Maggie is moving a LOT more these days
~I got to see my girls
~Our vacation to see Dani is coming up soon!
~Dad got his first grandpa gift from Maggie (pictures to come soon)
~We got to go on a fun hike to Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood canyon
~Andrew is going to defend his thesis this Thursday

2007-07-09T14:02:00.001-06:00

Hi All -

Sorry I haven't been writing. I have had so much to ready and not so much internet time, so I have just been enjoying the reading. Sooooo Here we go.

Sads -

Can't get to bed early thus.....
Don't exercise
Don't read near enough
sleepy
not at prime physical health

Happys -

Floated down the river
Had 2 fun concerts
Mom and Dad are going on a mission - kinda soon
Get to see lots of fam soon

SADS

2007-07-08T22:14:00.000-06:00

I'm sad that i haven't seen any one use this in a few weeks

i know i know we all have like 5 blogs we need to update . . just remember its here.
my week was interesting, my boss suggested i work from home Thursday and Friday. and steph had her family in town so i was basically on my own for 5 days. not really when I'm at my best. i watched a lot of TV, read a whole series of books, at about 16 bags of (low cal) popcorn and on the fourth i roasted my own hot dogs, pork and beans, chips, etc. ahh now those days must end and i get to go back to work :0 )

We are Home!

2007-07-08T19:01:00.000-06:00

( I was trying to put these in the center of the story.... oopps,.... that won't work. So just imagine that it goes with selling CDs in Toronto and the train ride story.... he-he)

We are going to do H&S for the 2 weeks we were on tour. Starting with Toronto.

We got to see Ingrid and Verl at the concert and after. They were so cute and excited. Ingrid is trunky to come home and Verl is worried that there won't be anyone coming to replace them and wants to extend. They brought some investigator friends and a member of their bishopric and wife. It was fun.

Dad was working the CD sales before, intermission, and after and they sold about $25,000 worth. The most ever sold at a concert venue. CANADA LOVES US!!

We did 2 concerts there. The first one was Dad's favorite of the tour. It was in a concert hall, it was the first and all the songs were new and exciting, and he had seats right up front and could hear, see, and feel everything.

The choir was on 3 levels. stage, balcony and upper balcony. guess where I was sitting.... you guessed it.... 4th row from the TOP!!! it gave you motion sickness to keep your eyes on the conductor because he was so far below!!! but it was a great concert and the memorized words were all starting to fall into place.

Right after the concert we loaded buses and headed for Buffalo,NY about 2 hours away. We got there early the next morning (MIDNIGHT) next morning we had breakfast, and then got back on the bus and headed for a double header at Chataqua, NY. One of my favorite places!!!

A couple of weeks before we left I got a card in my music box at choir. It was from a friend that I had made the last time we were at Chitaqua. (4 years ago) She said that they were going to be there again this year and was hopeful that we could meet. I e-mailed her back and we made arrangements to meet and see each other again. Hopefully she is going to be sending me some pictures we took and I will add them so you can see her. It was a great experience to spend some time talking to them and strengthening a friendship that I hope gets stronger. They are great people. They Loved the concert (they watched it twice.... snuck into the matinee, and had tickets for the evening) After the evening concert she was hopping over benches and running to try and catch me as we were leaving.

FYI .... Thomas Edison was the son-in-law of the Hotel Proprietor and he installed lights in Chitaqua's hotel...... the first in the history of man to have electric lights, because of his son-in-law.

Dad had his marathon button experience here. They were wearing the blue blazers and he had 26 buttons come off. The buttons were metal and they kept cutting the threads. Finally he just got a bunch of safety pins and pinned them on. It was an adventure!!

Because of the button experience, Dad sat up at the top of the benches by a lady who had brought her mother to the concert from Cleveland. "Her mother was on Hospice and her dying wish was to see the choir. They were not members, but her dentist is a bishop. As we talked it reminded me alot of our experience with Dad Petersen."

Right after the concert we boarded the buses and drove the 2 1/2 hours to Cleveland and stayed in the Renaissance Hotel (arriving at apx 1) which at one time was the largest in the country. Early the next morning we (Dad and I) caught a train and rode to the airport where we caught a shuttle to the rental car place and rented a car and drove to Columbus. MMMM.... wonder why we did that??!!

It was great to spend some time with the Beazers. Lydia stole Dad's heart and they played all afternoon. They were at the park, riding bikes, playing with toys, and she even tucked him in for a nap. Corbin was his charming self winning our hearts. Brooke and Q made us a scrumptious dinner and we got to spend the whole afternoon and early evening talking and watching Lyds and Gpa play.

Unfortunately we had to leave about 7ish and drove back to Cleveland. It worked out really well with no glitches, so we felt really blessed.

The next day we got to ride a train through Cuyahoga National Park. It was a fun train owned by an LDS guy who opened it on Monday just for us. We rode along the Ohio and Erie Canal track and got a lot of history and beautiful sights along the way. We ate at the Hunt Farm where a safe was made for Joseph Smith. It was a little like Utah Heritage State Park, but not nearly as big or well taken care of. But, it was nice. (and hot!!)

Then it was off to the Blossom Festival. This was an outside theater that is the home of the Cleveland Symphony. It was the hottest concert of the trip. but it was a beautiful setting and a great reception from the people.

We don't want to be too long winded... so we will do this in segments and will add the next days in a bit.

Love you.... have a great week.
M&D

sappy and hads

2007-07-01T22:49:00.000-06:00

i HAD a cute little stomach
i HAD a brilliant plan on how to save money
i HAD an active social life

i just watched a movie called Water, holy sad (and beautiful!) i have never been so sappy and sobby at a movie in a long time

Happy You Were Here

2007-06-25T14:04:00.000-06:00

How nice was that-- I almost forgot Mom and Dad don't live an hour away. It seemed like they'd just driven up for the day and we'd see them again soon. Hopefully one day it will be like that. It was great watching them drive away and just thinking, "Ah, well that was fun -- we'll see them in a couple of days." It makes good-byes much easier.

HAPPY-
We get to see them on Thursday! (and Friday)
Quintin taught his first class on Wednesday and it went well. I'm excited for him to get to see if this is really what he wants to do (or if he'll be more interested in research/publishing).
Lydia and Corbin are getting a little female cousin! (congrats Jess and Drew)
Quintin has been able to be around more now that school stuff has calmed down a little bit.
Weather's been beautiful
It was sooo funny watching Lydia say, "JUMP!" and watching Dad only stop to ask, "How high?"

SADS-
Mom and Dad really don't live close by
Corbin's tummy's still bugging him

Lydia putting Grandpa Pete down for his nap.

Nana trying to get a few last snuggles in.

Life as a Batchelorette

2007-06-25T09:03:00.000-06:00

Happies -
my cute little niece is strong and healthy
i've finished one quilt - on to the next
mom and dad get to go to toronto & Ohio
the weather has been luxurious
little crater lake was awesome

sads -
steph's struggle with her job decisions
my addiction to food and beverage (there is a chocolate milk here that is over 400 calories per serving. . . but soooo good)
summer is goign by too quickly
money money money by the pound

What made me happy this week...

2007-06-22T15:04:00.000-06:00

That I have a beautiful little girl in my tummy and that she is healthy and growing and adorable.

(And that it was our anniversary and we had a lovely time)

The Day Before the Big Day

2007-06-20T09:11:00.000-06:00

Since I'm sure that tomorrow I will be filled with "happies" (no sads - I just know the baby will cooperate) I thought I should write a few things...

=0(
0Drew's brother, Adam is moving to Portland with my two little nieces and we won't get to see them nearly as much.
0I experienced heart burn for the first time last night (navajo tacos baby)
0All the bowling skills I used to have (which weren't too bad) have all left me
0I peed my pants when I sneezed on Sunday

=0)
0We got to spend time with Ma and Pa and the family on Father's Day (although Dad got home late and then took a nap, so we didn't really get to see him much)
0I made the cutest onesie for Drew for Father's Day
0We went boating for the first time this season
0Since Adam is moving to Portland, we have more excuses to go up there (not that we need any at all)
0We got 2 more tomatoes from our garden
0Our garden is growing so much that we had to do some major trimming...i mean major.
0I bought some maternity undies
0I started feeling the baby move last Thursday
0Drew and Mom both felt the baby move too on Sunday
0WE GET TO FIND OUT TOMORROW!!

Happy Pop's day Pa

2007-06-15T17:25:00.000-06:00

So here it is a family blog and what a great time to start it, fathers day. The man who askes me the day after I leave from visiting him when I am comming back and if I could come that weekend (and is serious that he wants me there - that weekend). The man who thought he was teaching us all poptus growing up but really was just teaching us how to love and teach how to work hard and save how to grow and change. Ya know I always say that my parents are the oddest couple. They don't match the norm. Two oldest children one into sports and school leadership the other an MP (as Jess puts it). Dad said it though when he said that they were perfect for each other. And it shows me how if two people love each other and know what they want and are shooting for in live they will make it happen and with so much joy. That is my #1 Happy today. That I can have parents and a family that love me so much and have set such an example for me and have taught and continue to teach and support me right when I need it.

Other happies for the week
- I ran into my friend Gretchen from Kansas at FHE.
- I went to dinner with my friend Gretchen from Kansas.
- I saw my friend Natalie Lindquist (who gave me a great brownie) - and her two cute girls and her great husband who helped me not get stuck in traffic on the way to the airport.
-Some people ended up being helpful (I was worried for a while).
- A lady went out of her way to invite me to eat with her office.
- A girl called me up and helped me not get lost.
- Soft Comphy beds
- A rental car man who directed me to the hotel.
- There are temples where needed
- There was a Beehive Clothing where needed (My cooworkers don't know it but they are happy about this as well)
- Rememberances of Southwest Airlines.
- Nice people in Airplanes
- A girl that did a quick turnaround at an airport restaurant

Sads -

- That I got stressed and honrey at people who were just doing their best
- All airlines don't work like Southwest
- I am not quick on my toes with good decision making

I love you all - Happy Fathers day Pop

Happy Pa's Day!

2007-06-15T05:51:00.000-06:00

Hey Dad,

Just wanted to wish you the most specialest of days. Thanks for being my dad and sacrificing to provide all of us with the life you did. We're so excited to get to see you soon and have you hold your grandkids. As we've been learning more about parenting and the concern/desire to raise righteous, healthy (emotionally, socially, spiritually, physically) children I am grateful for the foundation you laid for us. Because of your effort to have a family that could counsel together and talk about ways to become better I seek to find methods that will teach our kids how to think, reason, make choices, and understand consequences. We work to have open lines of communications and above all to have relationships of love and mutual respect. Thank you for your example.

Sads-
- It's hot
- Corbin's tummy is bugging him and that makes it difficult to do anything except hold him. Not that I don't enjoy that immensely, but dishes and laundry are piling up! At least there's a dishwasher to help out again (*see below)
- Because of the tummy trouble I'm trying an elimination diet starting with milk products. A Petersen with no milk! I'm dying.
- His jaundice and skin rash are still sticking around (poor boy!)
- Quintin's had to do a lot of studying this week (and the quarter ended last week!)

Happies-
-*I fixed our dishwasher all by myself! We were going to call a repair store, but I decided it wouldn't hurt to give it a go on my own. So far through research and experimentation I've figured out how to fix a car, a dryer, and a dishwasher. I'm a regular handy-woman!
- Summer brings LOTS of fresh veggies and fruits. I could eat watermelon all day. Hopefully we can get our garden started this week (I know it's late, but we might harvest something yet!).
- After Monday Quintin will be done with his test and we'll all get to have a little more time together.
- Quintin gets to start teaching his first class this week.
- We went to the zoo and I survived with two kids in tow!
- We get to see Mom and Dad twice this month!
- Vacuuming does calm a fussy baby so at least my ground level floors are clean.
- Todd's baby is out of the hospital
- And finally:
I have an amazing dad
My kids have an amazing dad

On a day like today... what more needs to be said?!

OK, I had to add Corbin gloating about making it through his first full day of church.

Speaking of POPTUS

2007-06-14T10:06:00.000-06:00

I was thinking the other day how great my parents were for teaching us so well. Not only did they teach us in word, but definitely by example. I hate to admit it, but some of my favorite memories were pulling weeds in the yard with the family...

SAD
Can't see C

HAPPY
I'm HALFWAY!!!
Got to go to Mom's concert - good old glory songs...
We got our first produce from our garden (see our blog)
Got to spend Sunday with Ma and Pa and we got to look at baby pictures and books
Went to my appointment yesterday and everything is great!
Only one more week until the BIG day!
Finally got a COSTCO card
Got to see Fanny for a couple hours

Excellent Idea!!!!

2007-06-13T19:36:00.001-06:00

I think this is a great idea!!!! we can link the other blogspots and keep everyone connected, but still have our own little communicay that is private.

Happy
The yard is beautiful
Got to see Jess and Drew (from a distance) last night
have all but 3 of the songs for the tour ready to go
Uncle Boyd is doing much better... come to find out he was getting double meds for Prozak.... yep that will do it to you
Starting to pack
Got to see Brooke,Q,L, and C Tuesday, Dani Thursday, Jess & Drew Friday and Tuesday.... now I just need my Kim fix and life will be perfect!!
We have this coooool new blog for our Happy and Sads...... I am excited!!!

Sad
Allergies are driving my eyes crazy
having a dickens of a time getting these last 3 songs ready
Have to pack the big suitcases and have them sent off on Sunday..... how am I suppose to be organized enough to know what I need 5 days before we leave!!!! yikes!! and then we don't see them until the next Sunday.... I hope I remember everything, 'cuz we will be living out of the carry on for 3 days!!!

HAPPY FATHERS DAY!

2007-06-13T19:00:00.000-06:00

what a better way to celebrate fathers day than to create a blog dedicated to him
where we can talk POPTUS, share happys and sads, vent, bond, share pics, and just have a good old time :0 ) when i asked all the sisters what POPTUS stood for they all remembered the reasons behind it and were able to recall a few of the letters, it was kinda funny. but we all live our life according to it and we all know that those FHE's shaped who we are today. so it was all worth it PAPA!!!

Happy
well I'm happy with creating these blogs, its kinda fun. i can express myself to everyone at once
happy to live in Oregon where i can go hiking after work :0 )
happy spring is here
I'm happy that i have a great roommate and a fabulous family.

Sad
sad all my family doesn't get to live in Oregon and i don't get to see my Corbin, and DeeDee, and sad i can't see jess grow a baby. or have book club with mom, or go four wheeling with dad anytime i want.
I'm sad that some boys have a hard time with priorities and pursuing that which is important
I'm sad that all the rest of the boys are a little off mentally :0 )
love you papa