Birrell Family Blog

jack raymond ward

2012-01-24T17:51:00.000-08:00

Born January 23 at 11:44 pm to Ashlee & Paul. No words yet, just feeling more than our share of gratitude to God for this child in our lives. Our feet have yet to touch the ground.

-Brenda

nana visit

2012-01-21T23:15:00.000-08:00

Kris just arrived from Tennessee ready to share in this special time with Ashlee [and all of us] as we bring this new baby into our lives. Not sure when he will get here, the doctor says he may be a while longer. And so we visit and wait together... praying all will be well. We love having her with us. She was greeted at the airport with a big hug from Conrad and he has been holding hands with her ever since :)

-Brenda

another coat...

2012-01-15T10:15:00.000-08:00

Bar stools for the booth are freshly coated every 6 months for the CHA Trade Show [Craft & Hobby Association]. Pink is our color of choice this time, covering up the red from last time... This next week everything will be put in the crates and shipped off for the Pebbles Inc. booth. The show is in Anaheim, end of January and for the first time, in a very long time, I am not going. Ashlee is due on the 24th... and until this baby comes, life is on hold and everything is subject to change.

-Brenda

branching out

2012-01-15T10:07:00.000-08:00

Phoebe is branching out on her own and is no more a clinger to just her Mom [usually]. We are tickled that she shares her hugs & kisses with us. We love this little mighty one madly!

-Brenda

filled with hope

2012-01-15T09:54:00.000-08:00

Paul finished the cherry bookcase he is making for Kelsie. He built it up at Brent & Carolyn's. I know he enjoys just spending time with Brent and will soon start another project... It is B R E A T H T A K I N G L Y B E A U T I F U L !!! They did the final fine sanding outside [hello spring weather in January?] and brought it in to stain. Kelsie asked Paul to sign & date the back and that he should also sign her hope chest that he had made. He said when it is empty sometime, he can turn it over and sign it. Kelsie just looked at him and softly said, "But it will never be empty Paul. It will always be filled with hope." Ashlee and I looked at each other and erupted in giggles. It really was so tenderly said. After all, hope is everything...

-Brenda

baby shower for ashlee

2012-01-15T06:12:00.000-08:00

It is hard to think of this coming baby without thinking of our good friends & neighbors that we live near. We have fasted & prayed together through the years and now we are all gathering together for a baby shower and celebrating his upcoming birth. Ashlee glows and has had such a good pregnancy. I think she is just so full of thanksgiving that any aches and pains are just part of this miracle for her. She loves being pregnant and I catch her softly rubbing her tummy throughout the day. Thank you to everyone that came, so many of you. She felt so loved. We all did.

-Brenda

moving news... baby news

2012-01-08T21:30:00.000-08:00

We have been looking forward to Lindsey & Tyler moving closer as he gets started in the UVU Nursing Program and feel so thankful that a basement apartment was available in our neighborhood. It's warm cookie distance away... we will be sending our first batch over soon and are looking forward to sampling their cookies too! After much painting, they moved in Saturday and are now getting settled. Already a tight fit when Carter comes to visit, it promises to get even tighter in 8 months or so... Yep! They just announced they are having a baby. We could not be more thrilled!

-Brenda

First anniversary picture together

ohs preference 2012

2012-01-08T21:26:00.000-08:00

Abby asked with a puzzle & treat and he just said yes! Now the dress shopping & date planning can begin for this girl ask boy dance at school :)

-Brenda

little visitors...

2012-01-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

I love to hear the pitter patter of Conrad's feet run downstairs to the basement of Pebbles and I know a hug is not too far away. Grandma! Phoebe's getting older and joins in on the hug and in that moment I am in heaven :)

-Brenda

we're off and running / walking

2012-01-04T05:07:00.000-08:00

Kelsie has been prodding us to get a family pass at the Orem Recreation Center. Discounted in December. She is tenacious and has not given up. I am not sure if Larry got one because he wanted to, or he was just tired of listening to her. Either way, thank you Kelsie. I need your tenacity! We have gone the past two days and it has been good. My only memory of the indoor basement track was knowing 6x's around is a mile which means it is semi small and when you unfortunately pass gas, it's often still there the second time around. I know you are all saying you don't do that, but everyone does at some point in their day... It is a comfortable place to be. Exercising at home, especially outside is still my favorite, but I don't seem to make time for it. Hopefully that will change this year :)

-Brenda

cleaning up for the new year

2012-01-03T20:11:00.000-08:00

New year. New Habits. Another year of trying to be tidy. Another year of being told that little pieces of paper go in the trash can. This year feels different. We are scrambling to totally clear out the shop of all the things piling up over the past years. It's been hard to figure out sometimes, what can stay and what can go and then it feels like suddenly, I am looking at 20 years of memories all piled up. It's time to simplify and I am amazed how I can look at things differently within the space of a couple of days. With the help of Larry and the kids, we are clearing out and moving towards simplifying... and yes, putting the little pieces of paper into the trash can too :)
-Brenda

new years eve

2012-01-01T08:47:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve we stayed home. Ashlee made what can only be called an 'out of this world perfect' Alfredo sauce that we dipped everything into. It was lick your plate good! We made a chocolate fondue too and dipped fruit, brownies and Carter's favorite marshmallows into it. My favorite were the little slices of tangerines. We need to do it again. Soon. Katie, Ransom & the kids are in AZ with his family.

We played Harry Potter Scene it. Larry participates with humor and I just draw a blank and am of no help... though surprisingly I got one question right. We played in the basement family room and layered ourselves with blankets. The heating man is coming this week. Lucky Unders. Kelsie worked and got home after 10pm. Just Dance 3, Texting Katie and telling her we saw Christian Bale at Harmon's. To stay awake, we ate. I believe I gained 5 lbs, then fell into bed asleep. Morning came awfully soon.
-Brenda

bang bang you're dead

2011-12-28T22:11:00.000-08:00

Carter got here the day after Christmas and the boys are playing nonstop just like little boys, with the unlimited energy that comes with them. Then we saw it and the room got extra quiet. As one would get shot and fall to the ground dead, the other would give a light kiss on the cheek to wake the other up... so they could jump up and start all over again. Yep. Pretty sure it was Conrad that started it. Learned behavior he has picked up from the girls in this family. It is nice to add some boys :)

-Brenda

christmas day

2011-12-28T06:31:00.000-08:00

This was our first Christmas in 31 years that I woke up without Larry by my side. I missed him. A lot. He worked at the hospital and met us at Larry's parents for dinner and visiting in the afternoon. Family dinners are now two for two with a red jello stain on their carpet for the past two get togethers. We are more than grateful they are both feeling better.

Christmas morning we were able to go to Josh's Grandma Lewis's home and talk to Josh in South Africa. It was better than wonderful and nearly everyone got to quickly talk to him. Kelsie talked for just a bit, then we all took turns after his Mom and sister. After I talked to him, the phone connection died and I think Kelsie died along with it. None of the phones worked so we headed home quickly and went next door to the bishop's house so she could quickly call and say goodbye. Christmas was perfect after that. Kelsie, Abby and I came home and snuggled with a Hallmark movie.

We gathered back home about 6 and got back in our Christmas pjs and took our time opening presents. I still think of my step Dad Lee when presents were passed out one at a time to be opened... it's the way he did it. Talking with Becky & Kris in Tennessee. Conrad loves to help open everyone's presents. Phoebe is happy collecting the wrappings and giving them to Paul. It was nice keeping Christmas simple this year. Making Christmas ornaments for the Sederberg family and being able to help Brenda shop for Tom. Not putting out the usual pine boughs, white lights & pinecones on the mantle and shelves, but thinking about it everyday... they are still sitting in a pile outside. Hand sewing Katie's quilt binding and she went on shopping errands for me [We were both happy with that arrangement]. Kelsie & Abby were my shopping & wrapping elves too. Katie & Ransom making a kitchen out of a used $10 entertainment center for Conrad & Phoebe. Loving the feelings of being together...

-Brenda

christmas eve night

2011-12-26T20:10:00.000-08:00

Larry's parents came for Christmas Eve dinner. Beef Tenderloin, scallop potatoes, fresh green beans, green salad and fresh fruit. It was so good [Thank you Kelsie & Abby]. My favorite part of having them over is the visiting we do around the table for hours after. The kids get to know their grandparents better as they talk about their memories. It was a good time.

After his parents went home, we opened our Christmas Pjs and books, read the Christmas story from Luke and took pictures. We made it an early night because Christmas morning comes awfully early... even with older kids :)

-Brenda

birrell family memories 2010

2011-12-26T19:42:00.000-08:00

Our family slide show for Christmas Eve is ready to go. 750 of our favorite family 2010 pictures, along with favorite music from 2010, creating a time capsule of memories. We look forward to it every year. It turned out pretty good and is filled with memories that are too soon forgotten. But, put them together with music and the ordinary day to day memories become extra special. It is true what they say, most of our happiest memories are centered around home...

Kelsie was taking a quick look at it, when a picture of Josh popped up on it and there she stayed for quite a while, watching it over and over again. Phoebe would point and smile. Kelsie would gently say, 'my Jb'.

-Brenda

christmas eve breakfast

2011-12-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

Kelsie & Abby looked forward to making orange rolls for Christmas Eve morning, by Pioneer Woman. It has been a huge blessing to have daughters that like to plan meals and bake... always trying new recipes and delighting us. Christmas Eve brought us a lazy day puttering at home which was the best gift of all... time.

-Brenda

hunger game shirts

2011-12-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

What to do on a friday night? Abby, Mikayla and Rachel have started to create their Hunger Games t-shirts as they look forward to the midnight premier of the first Hunger Games movie that is clear in March. Listening to them talk and plan has been fun. Seems far away but these girls are giddy and ready to go!

-Brenda

katie said trim. we heard cut.

2011-12-19T06:08:00.000-08:00

It was time. Phoebe's hair has become a bit wild, with lots of wispy strands. We took her in the bathroom for a quick trim and Ransom and I started cutting off the wisps. Before we knew it, Phoebe had herself quite a pixie. Katie's eye's got big and we knew we had crossed the line of a trim. Honestly though, she couldn't be cuter!

-Brenda

pillowcases

2011-12-11T10:59:00.000-08:00

First steps. Our bedroom is pretty much cleaned out except for a few of my bad habits of piled projects that can't be helped this Christmas season. I have been trying to figure out what kind of bedroom to create for Larry and I. Pinterest helps greatly. I can close my eyes and picture it, but have yet to see the overall look I want... but I do see bits and pieces of things I like and figure it will all just come together as we go. On a 'slim' budget of course. First off, I want pillows. Not fancy pillows. I want fluffy soft bed pillows. The kind of pillows when you look at your bed, you want to jump in and curl up, never to leave... the kind you think about during the day. I went quilt shopping with the girls and picked out my favorites. One yard of fabric each. No waste. Six pillowcases. Five minutes each. So far... so very good :)
-Brenda

wisdom teeth

2011-12-11T09:27:00.000-08:00

Kelsie got her wisdom teeth out on Friday. Impacted. All four. She did pretty well. Ransom taught her how to finally swallow pills just days before. What we didn't plan for was her being able to swallow pills with a very numb mouth... a memory I will never forget as she repeatedly tried while making a dribbly mess, trying to laugh with her lopsided smile and not being able to.

Memories:

Pain killers= upset stomach= no pain killers. Leaky frozen vegetables juice= stinky Kelsie. Refried beans. Chocolate pudding. Soup from Ash & Paul. Homemade Mac & Cheese from Katie. Hallmark movies. Prison Break. Hash browns. Wearing Josh's socks for comfort. Snuggling in a bunch of blankets on her couch bed in the family room. Surprisingly little pain. Pictures she won't let me post. Tooth Fairy.

-Brenda

buy. call. do. 2012.

2011-12-04T15:14:00.000-08:00

One of my most favorite things to do at the end of the year is to pick up a new planner and get organized for the coming year. It's kind of like that back to school feeling for me. Fill in the birthdays & other special days and I am off running... Buy lists. Call lists. Do Lists. All on new colors of Post It Notes [TOTALLY 100% COMPLETELY LOVE THEM]. Pretty much everything fits into one of those areas. The blank calendar gives me fresh hope of possibilities... new goals, better choices and more balance. Each year I do better in some ways and in other areas, I feel that I may as well throw myself off the cliff in despair as I can't quite get a handle on a few areas. I have to keep reminding myself that my feet are pointed in the right direction and to be patient with myself as I redirect throughout the year.

-Brenda

holiday hallmark movie time

2011-12-04T14:58:00.000-08:00

We love them. Every one of them... yes the sometimes goofy ones too. Today, even Paul joined us for 'A Princess For Christmas' and 'A Holiday Engagement'. Thank goodness for being able to pre-tape these so we can watch them together all holiday long. Honestly, does it get any better than a good Hallmark movie, especially when there are snow flurries outside and we are tucked inside with a warm fire? I know my sister Becky & probably her boys are watching them today too :)

-Brenda

the christmas list

2011-11-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

The list making has begun! Abby creates one every year and I save them every year. It first begins with a well thought out color pallet. I think she tries out every pen color in the box. It takes a while. She thoughtfully makes a list of her Christmas wishes... books are always top on her list.

-Brenda

family baby shower for ashlee

2011-11-27T06:52:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving weekend with all of Larry's family here made it a perfect time to have a family baby shower for Ashlee... only 8 more weeks until he arrives. Unbelievable huh? While her tummy is a sure sign that she is pregnant, she is still amazed that all of this is really happening after such a long wait and so many prayers. She glows and has felt pretty good throughout her pregnancy... looks fantastic too. We had soups and salad at Kristen's and spent girl time together. Thank you!!

-Brenda

tree farm

2011-11-26T22:44:00.000-08:00

We met for Larry's family pictures today and while we were out that way, we quickly went afterwards to cut down our Christmas tree before going to Kristen's for Ashlee's baby shower. We found the perfect one right away [with lots of pinecones] and everyone agreed. Unusual for us. To think we have been walking by this one for years until we looked up. Larry & Paul went for hamburgers afterwards and the girls headed to the shower. Last year... Becky was with us and Lindsey was getting married to Tyler. This year Lindsey is all tanned and freshly back from their trip to Aruba :)

-Brenda

#80 surprise party

2011-11-26T07:48:00.000-08:00

Wow! No clue. It could not have been a better surprise for Joe to be surrounded by just about everyone of his family... 17 days before his actual 80th birthday on December 12. We acknowledge the Lord's hand in having Larry's Mom by his side tonight. His daughter Kathy organized the whole party perfectly, passing out assignments and staying on top of everything. Thank you! How no one spilled the beans these last months was a miracle. Dinner at the Pizza Factory was yummy with a slide show of his 80 years. Looking back on past memories was priceless! Then we played a Bingo game of Joe-isms and won prizes that were inspired by Joe... outdated cereal, Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, Golf Balls, Army, Pepsi... Brent hosted a game to see how well their 7 kids knew their Dad and we topped it off by his favorite Custard from Milwaukee that Mike flew in. It was a perfect night of being together to celebrate the life of our 'Wonderful' Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa... He is very much loved and appreciated.

-Brenda

thanksgiving day

2011-11-24T22:08:00.000-08:00

I woke up to Thanksgiving Day without it feeling like Thanksgiving. Not sure why, it just was. Larry and Abby hung up the Christmas lights outside. Josh sent an email that said he arrived in South Africa and it was crazy cool place and that made Kelsie so very happy. We made stuffing for the turkey's and picked out the music for the end of the year family slide show before heading over to Larry's parents for dinner. All seven of his siblings are here this week... and their home is filled to the brim... brothers & sisters, grandkids, cousins. My mind has been in a hundred places lately...

I think of the many blessings and answered prayers of this past year...
Tyler & Carter have come into our lives. Conrad is just fine after nearly drowning. Kelsie got into the UVU Nursing Program and Tyler was just accepted also. Phoebe came to us this year. Abby is doing great in school and even working a day here and there at Pebbles. Larry got a job at American Fork Hospital and is moving forward in a new line of work. Becky & Ethan got to come out for a visit. Josh just left for a mission to serve the people in South Africa. Ashlee & Paul are having a baby boy end of January. Larry's Mom is home from the hospital after fighting an infection from a tooth and we are grateful that both she and Joe worked through some pretty tough health problems this year and are getting stronger. Our close friend just finished his 6 month milestone of being sober... I see God work in the lives of our friends and neighbors with different challenges. And in the times that a prayer does not appear to be answered for any of us, I see patience, hope, faith and a deeper leaning on the Lord.

I know our lives are filled with answered prayers each day, many that we take for granted, many that we just don't see as blessings at the time. Yes, this year has been filled with long work hours and being stretched thin and some yet to be answered prayers, but all in all I thank the Lord for everything. God is good.
-Brenda

Larry & Brent had the honors of cutting the ham and turkey...

Joe oversaw their work this year

Truth be told, I panicked a little with the gravy. Ashlee has become our gravy maker and she was with Paul's family. Kelsie took control and together we made the most wonderful gravy... It helped to have the drippings from two turkeys :)

Joe dipped up the mashed potatoes for everyone and was the very last to fill his plate. I think he liked to spend time with each person...

Same age cousins Austin, Abby, Kami and Tyler are now 16

Mike & Larry (yes on tippy toes)

off to south africa

2011-11-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

The last couple of days have all blended together with visiting, final goodbyes, plenty of tears, a final lunch of Sushi and a wonderful setting apart on Monday night by President Webb. Josh will be in good hands as he serves the people in South Africa.

His Dad became his companion until the airport. I think he was delighted to serve in a 12 hour mission with Josh.

This morning we got up early and took Josh to the Salt Lake airport. Not knowing what to expect, I think we were all delighted that a group of LDS missionaries were gathering... all headed for the long trip to South Africa. Some of these young men may be his companions in the coming two years. I felt so relieved that he wasn't alone, it helped in saying goodbye. We came home and crashed... adjustment time. For Josh, his adventure begins today.

Kelsie's sisters and brothers, along with Larry & I made her a countdown chain for each week... every chain is filled with an activity that one of us can do with her :)

-Brenda

Josh and his Grandma. I don't think anyone is more proud.

the farewell

2011-11-21T05:06:00.000-08:00

This day seemed to take forever to get here, yet yesterday it seemed to come too fast and didn't seem real. Bittersweet. I am learning that it is possible to want someone to stay and to go at the same time. But seriously, there is no place we would rather have him be, yet he will be very missed. I think of all the miracles that have happened in his life to bring him to this point. God is good!

He spoke in church today about finding joy in service and did a thoughtfully good job. His Dad his here from Michigan and Josh is so happy he is here. His grandparents did a great job feeding everyone afterwards. Other than Josh, the food was most talked about... the presentation and the food was that good!

He will be set apart on Monday night and will be leaving on Tuesday morning to South Africa. His adventure will begin immediately... and we are all looking forward to hearing about the experiences that will shape his life these next two years. We love you Josh and will keep you in our prayers.

-Brenda

Josh with his Mom & Dad

Josh & Kelsie

Josh & his second love, Phoebe

free donuts

2011-11-18T07:01:00.000-08:00

Report cards are out. Donuts for Abby... a free donut for every A at Krispy Kreme Donuts. She has the smarts, backed by hardwork and now she has the doughnuts... Get them when they are warm and they are heaven in a box :)

-Brenda

abby's quilt

2011-11-15T05:55:00.000-08:00

There really is nothing like making a quilt. After hours of hard work and dreaming of the finished project, it is finally ready to be washed and placed in the dryer, where the magic happens. It comes out puckered up, soft and oh so perfect! I think Abby is delighted with it.

Abby is working towards her Young Women Recognition Award at our church. It is something that takes a lot of hard work and commitment on her part as she develops the skills and values that will bless her throughout her life, along with the lives of those around her. Using her Personal Progress book, she sets goals and tracks her progress. She works on many small projects in each of the 8 Young Women values, along with one large project in each area also.

Throughout this time, she is also encouraged to pray, read the scriptures, go to church and partake of the sacrament, live high standards, serve others and keep a personal journal.

Participating in this program helps a young woman make and keep commitments as she sets good personal daily habits that will be a strength throughout her life. I can see her growing as she develops her talents and learns new skills. I can also see how they have strengthened her faith and testimony of Jesus Christ as she realizes she is a daughter of our Heavenly Father and will 'stand as a witness of God at all times and in all things, and in all places.'

[Faith] Planted and cared for a vegetable garden, made meals using the vegetables

[Divine Nature] Made a quilt for her bed

[Individual Worth] Still deciding...

[Knowledge] Plan Meals, shop and make meals. Cooks with Katie once a week.

[Choice & Accountabilty] Was a youth leader at girl's camp

[Good Works] Working on a family recipe book

[Integrity] Bought a 'too short' dress that she loved and added material to the length to make it modest

[Virtue] Read the Book of Mormon

-Brenda

basement survival 101

2011-11-06T07:18:00.000-08:00

The cold weather has barely begun and Abby & Kelsie have both been sleeping upstairs in the family room... of course part of me thinks they just like to be together because we can hear them talk and giggle. Still, it does get pretty cold down there. Abby informed me yesterday that she and Kelsie have come up with a few tricks to help them survive the cold nights of our basement. For reals? I asked. Must be. I do not believe that 60 degrees is 3rd world country cold. Here is their list...

1. Socks are a must

2. Tuck your pj bottoms into your socks

3. Tuck your top into your bottoms so it won't ride up

4. Wear a hoodie, with the hood

5. Stuff air holes with extra blankets so the warmth can't escape

6. Place a small blanket right on top of you

7. Move around as little as possible

I think I am still in a bit of a funk with Becky & Ethan gone. I miss her more than words can say. We have also begun counting down the days with Josh and making him his favorite foods... tonight we made wings [best in the world]. His sister Katie came with him. He will be going to South Africa for two years on an LDS mission and is leaving two days before Thanksgiving. Kelsie said that she will give him until Thanksgiving Day and then no more tears. We know better, but nursing school will keep her plenty busy as they both adjust to letter writing.

Larry and I bought new white sheets and fluffy pillows Friday night. I LOVE white sheets. My plan is to clear everything we don't need out of our room [it is just ONE of the drop off places for everything we don't know what to do with] and box it up to go through [later]. I have been gathering simple bedroom ideas on Pinterest and am excited to create a peaceful place to ponder and be for Larry & I. Lucky for us, I love thrift storing [and yard sales] and can do it for next to nothing. Now, just to find the time...

Conrad and I have started playing Mario Kart on the wii. So far we both come in a solid last place. Yes, I stink at it and have no plans on becoming a great player overnight. He loves it and every so often will squeeze my arm and say, oh! Grandma I love you so much. Is there anything better?

Yesterday Abby and I watched A Soldier Love Story (Hallmark) and Fireproof. Real good movies. It was real nice to just spend the afternoon being with her...

-Brenda

rs thankful dinner

2011-11-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

Ashlee & I had a good time at our RS Thankful dinner. Yummy dinner and good visiting. We rotated between courses and the men served and did the clean up. We were pampered. I loved this simple thought from Rosemary and know I need to work on this [a lot]. As we deal with challenges we have three choices:

1. Turn inwardly to ourselves. Ignore it, work harder or longer...

2. Turn to the world for comfort and escape

3. Give it to God

How heavy is this glass of water? The absolute weight doesn’t matter. It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that’s not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I’ll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you’ll have to call an ambulance.In each case it’s the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.

And that’s the way it is with our burdens. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won’t be able to carry on. As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while- place it at the Savior’s feet and rest—before holding it again.

Elder Richard G. Scott said it this way: “I have been greatly helped by laying a vexing matter at His feet for a while. When I picked it up again, it was lighter and more manageable (Oct 1999 General Conference).

-Brenda

happy halloween

2011-11-03T23:28:00.000-07:00

Halloween Memories:

Conrad lived in his costume for the week before Halloween... mustache and eyebrows too [He's got the moves down]. Drawing belly button spiders. It was a good thing it was perfectly warm on Halloween Night as Conrad would not put on a shirt or coat... ' I want to fly'. Phoebe holding her little hand out for candy. Visiting with neighbors. Placing candles in jars for the porch is the next best thing to carving the pumpkins. Hearing Conrad say thank you! Yummy stew [thanks Kelsie]'. Everyone made some kind of Halloween treat. Conrad must have spilled his trick or treat bag no less than a dozen times, scattering his candy everywhere! Porch lights off at 9pm... we played Scum.

-Brenda

Little Monkey & Nacho Libre

Conrad got to go trick or treating to his pre-school teachers

in the neighborhood

tyler hobbs rn

2011-10-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

Tyler's long awaited letter finally arrived with a Yes! He has been accepted into the UVU Nursing Program beginning January 2012. We celebrated with pizza at Tyler's & Lindsey's and we are so thrilled for both of them!

-Brenda

talbot time

2011-10-27T21:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday night opened up and everyone gathered over at Mike & Lisa's... it was a miracle! We had yummy Taco Soup and dipped caramel apples. Our 'family' is growing... and our love for each other along with it. Thank you for the fun night, we love you!
-Brenda

phoebe at one

2011-10-22T21:49:00.000-07:00

How many people did it take to get Phoebe to smile for her one year picture? We went to the park and Ransom was swinging, sliding and hanging from the tree like a monkey... still no smile, or at least one I could catch on camera. Finally, in desperation, we sat her on Katie's tummy and played piggy toes and she was transformed into a very happy little girl right before the sun was going down.

-Brenda

my cup is full

2011-10-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

Well, Becky and Ethan are heading back to Tennessee. I have learned through years of visits to not plan too much for a couple days after she leaves as I re-adjust again to life without her here. We took her to the airport in my pjs, then came home sad and slept. It felt good to embrace the feeling of missing her [Scott, Charles, Randy & Ethan too]. Would I considered my cup half full or half empty? In my relationship with Becky, it's completely full... and that helps me on the days when my cup feels half empty in other areas of my life :)
-Brenda

final day

2011-10-16T06:11:00.000-07:00

Memories of our last day:
Visiting Katie's home and helping to hang pictures. Conrad likes to sit near Becky and hold her hand. Conrad read us The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear. Walking to Ashlee's. Thank you Ethan for mowing the lawn. Doing plenty of grocery shopping, cooking and cleaning for the OHS Sadie's Hawkins dinner Friday night... Abby & her group of 14 kids. The guys taking turns 'hunting' on Becky's ipad, Conrad smashing ants and putting together puzzles on Becky's ipad.
-Brenda

uintahs

2011-10-13T23:46:00.000-07:00

We headed up to the Uintah's today. Is there anything better than outside fresh air? Especially for the ones that made the long drive with Phoebe in the car. We first stopped at the Upper Provo River Falls then headed up to hike into Clegg Lake. With the storm we had last week, I don't know how I could have been been surprised with the 5+ inches of snow at the trailhead... down to 45 degrees too. With the little kids, we passed on that and headed to Mirror Lake to explore and walk around. Days are counting down 'til Becky & Ethan go home, so we all took our picture with her, as we do each trip.

Have you ever had one of those places that you drive by for years and can't figure out? Well the Beaver Creek Nudist Ranch in Kamas is just one of those places for me. I think we have driven passed it for 35+ years and it makes me smile. We stopped by the sign for pictures and believe we will be better prepared next time we pass by in warmer weather [I think they have a gift shop]. Imagine that. We know we are far from being their ideal poster girls, but it is tempting :)
-Brenda

anita & mckell visit

2011-10-12T21:47:00.000-07:00

Anita & McKell came down to see Becky and we had such a nice long visit. We counted them up... we have known Anita now for 40 years. Lunch at J-Dawgs in Provo. Ultimate Frisbee at Cascade Park. Pizza & hanging out together, a real good day.
-Brenda

McKell, Becky & Anita

Utimate Frisbee

lazer tag

2011-10-11T21:30:00.000-07:00

Memories of the day:

Walking Conrad to preschool. Going shooting. Lazer Tag teams boys vs girls... yes they were victorious against our girl power, but it sure was fun. Yummy White Chicken Chili at Lindsey & Tyler's. Celebrity clencher: Rod Stewart and Russell Crowe

-Brenda

becky & ethan time

2011-10-11T05:33:00.000-07:00

Memories of the day: Going for a walk [Becky] / bike ride [me to keep up with her] and talking to Greg Davis. Playing Speed Scrabble with Ethan. Working at Pebbles while Becky had lunch with my Mom and sister Bonnie. Making breakfast for dinner. When Becky comes, the kids gather. Conrad has eyes only for his Becky, Becky, Becky. Playing Mafia. Thinking about life and trying to accept some things the way they are, better on some days than others. Counting my blessings.
-Brenda

fall leaves

2011-10-09T22:40:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how quickly we have said goodbye to summer and hello to fall. I love the cool fall weather and hope it stays for a long while before winter hits us. Today we went to church (we hold our breath because fast & testimony meeting can be a surprise with visitors), made panini sandwiches for lunch, had a nap and went for a drive to see the fall leaves, but the colors were not too spectacular and with all the cars driving through the alpine loop, it was impossible to pull over and take a good picture. We missed the best of the fall colors in the mountains this year. Larry showed great patience as I was a horrible co-pilot mumbling under my breath every time we passed a good place to take pictures... of course there was no place to pull over. We came home to a roast dinner with Becky's homemade biscuits and Ashlee's fresh peach jam.
-Brenda

Ashlee & Paul's porch

home sweet home

2011-10-09T12:21:00.001-07:00

Today we spent the day at home together... chopping buckets of peppers for winter meals, spreading compost & dividing up flowers, baking a chocolate buttermilk cake and cream cheese / pumpkin muffins and making chili for dinner, rummikub (yes, Becky won which brings her a great deal of satisfaction) and Lucky Unders. I am grateful that we find our happiness in just being together... my favorite place to be. My nephew Ethan is a remarkable young man and we love having him with us. He has two brothers, so spending time with our five girls can always be eye opening for him. While Becky is here, the world feels like it has stopped for awhile.
-Brenda

becky & ethan are here NOW!

2011-10-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

I have had October 10th circled for months... counting down in my head throughout the days, waiting for my sister Becky & Ethan to come. I went to Pebbles this morning with '2 more days' in my head, knowing I had the weekend to raise my homemaking bar at home. So, I was quite surprised when I got a phone call from Becky about 1pm.
It went like this:

Becky: Hi! I just wanted you to know we made it to Memphis and our plane is on time
Me: Huh? What are you doing in Memphis?
Becky: Why, Ethan & I are coming to see you
Me: But, aren't you coming on Monday?
Becky: You're kidding right?
Me: Of course (uneasy laugh)
Becky: You are such a tease. See you in a few hours!

Thrill & panic set in, followed by complete joy. Katie, Ashlee, Kelsie & Josh, Lindsey and Abby were all called with the happy & surprising news and I could see they thought I had lost my mind. I felt like I did. I still do. How could I have gotten the dates so wrong? Katie kept telling me to breath. Everyone quickly pitched in with grocery shopping, making beds, laundry, cleaning bathrooms & kitchen, sweeping floors and even picking up product for Pebbles. Everything that was out of place was thrown back into our bedroom (again) and we headed up to the airport to pick up Becky & Ethan. When we got home, we all had homemade chicken pot pie that Katie & Kelsie made. A crazy, happy day and I am still pinching myself that they are here.
-Brenda

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

2011-10-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

'You've got to find what you love'

This is a prepared text of the Commencement address delivered by Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer and of Pixar Animation Studios, on June 12, 2005.

I am honored to be with you today at your commencement from one of the finest universities in the world. I never graduated from college. Truth be told, this is the closest I've ever gotten to a college graduation. Today I want to tell you three stories from my life. That's it. No big deal. Just three stories.

The first story is about connecting the dots.

I dropped out of Reed College after the first 6 months, but then stayed around as a drop-in for another 18 months or so before I really quit. So why did I drop out?

It started before I was born. My biological mother was a young, unwed college graduate student, and she decided to put me up for adoption. She felt very strongly that I should be adopted by college graduates, so everything was all set for me to be adopted at birth by a lawyer and his wife. Except that when I popped out they decided at the last minute that they really wanted a girl. So my parents, who were on a waiting list, got a call in the middle of the night asking: "We have an unexpected baby boy; do you want him?" They said: "Of course." My biological mother later found out that my mother had never graduated from college and that my father had never graduated from high school. She refused to sign the final adoption papers. She only relented a few months later when my parents promised that I would someday go to college.

And 17 years later I did go to college. But I naively chose a college that was almost as expensive as Stanford, and all of my working-class parents' savings were being spent on my college tuition. After six months, I couldn't see the value in it. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and no idea how college was going to help me figure it out. And here I was spending all of the money my parents had saved their entire life. So I decided to drop out and trust that it would all work out OK. It was pretty scary at the time, but looking back it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The minute I dropped out I could stop taking the required classes that didn't interest me, and begin dropping in on the ones that looked interesting.

It wasn't all romantic. I didn't have a dorm room, so I slept on the floor in friends' rooms, I returned coke bottles for the 5¢ deposits to buy food with, and I would walk the 7 miles across town every Sunday night to get one good meal a week at the Hare Krishna temple. I loved it. And much of what I stumbled into by following my curiosity and intuition turned out to be priceless later on. Let me give you one example:

Reed College at that time offered perhaps the best calligraphy instruction in the country. Throughout the campus every poster, every label on every drawer, was beautifully hand calligraphed. Because I had dropped out and didn't have to take the normal classes, I decided to take a calligraphy class to learn how to do this. I learned about serif and san serif typefaces, about varying the amount of space between different letter combinations, about what makes great typography great. It was beautiful, historical, artistically subtle in a way that science can't capture, and I found it fascinating.

None of this had even a hope of any practical application in my life. But ten years later, when we were designing the first Macintosh computer, it all came back to me. And we designed it all into the Mac. It was the first computer with beautiful typography. If I had never dropped in on that single course in college, the Mac would have never had multiple typefaces or proportionally spaced fonts. And since Windows just copied the Mac, it's likely that no personal computer would have them. If I had never dropped out, I would have never dropped in on this calligraphy class, and personal computers might not have the wonderful typography that they do. Of course it was impossible to connect the dots looking forward when I was in college. But it was very, very clear looking backwards ten years later.

Again, you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.

My second story is about love and loss.

I was lucky — I found what I loved to do early in life. Woz and I started Apple in my parents garage when I was 20. We worked hard, and in 10 years Apple had grown from just the two of us in a garage into a $2 billion company with over 4000 employees. We had just released our finest creation — the Macintosh — a year earlier, and I had just turned 30. And then I got fired. How can you get fired from a company you started? Well, as Apple grew we hired someone who I thought was very talented to run the company with me, and for the first year or so things went well. But then our visions of the future began to diverge and eventually we had a falling out. When we did, our Board of Directors sided with him. So at 30 I was out. And very publicly out. What had been the focus of my entire adult life was gone, and it was devastating.

I really didn't know what to do for a few months. I felt that I had let the previous generation of entrepreneurs down - that I had dropped the baton as it was being passed to me. I met with David Packard and Bob Noyce and tried to apologize for screwing up so badly. I was a very public failure, and I even thought about running away from the valley. But something slowly began to dawn on me — I still loved what I did. The turn of events at Apple had not changed that one bit. I had been rejected, but I was still in love. And so I decided to start over.

I didn't see it then, but it turned out that getting fired from Apple was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. The heaviness of being successful was replaced by the lightness of being a beginner again, less sure about everything. It freed me to enter one of the most creative periods of my life.

During the next five years, I started a company named NeXT, another company named Pixar, and fell in love with an amazing woman who would become my wife. Pixar went on to create the worlds first computer animated feature film, Toy Story, and is now the most successful animation studio in the world. In a remarkable turn of events, Apple bought NeXT, I returned to Apple, and the technology we developed at NeXT is at the heart of Apple's current renaissance. And Laurene and I have a wonderful family together.

I'm pretty sure none of this would have happened if I hadn't been fired from Apple. It was awful tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it. Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle.

My third story is about death.

When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like: "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right." It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: "If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?" And whenever the answer has been "No" for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.

Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure - these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.

About a year ago I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a scan at 7:30 in the morning, and it clearly showed a tumor on my pancreas. I didn't even know what a pancreas was. The doctors told me this was almost certainly a type of cancer that is incurable, and that I should expect to live no longer than three to six months. My doctor advised me to go home and get my affairs in order, which is doctor's code for prepare to die. It means to try to tell your kids everything you thought you'd have the next 10 years to tell them in just a few months. It means to make sure everything is buttoned up so that it will be as easy as possible for your family. It means to say your goodbyes.

I lived with that diagnosis all day. Later that evening I had a biopsy, where they stuck an endoscope down my throat, through my stomach and into my intestines, put a needle into my pancreas and got a few cells from the tumor. I was sedated, but my wife, who was there, told me that when they viewed the cells under a microscope the doctors started crying because it turned out to be a very rare form of pancreatic cancer that is curable with surgery. I had the surgery and I'm fine now.

This was the closest I've been to facing death, and I hope it's the closest I get for a few more decades. Having lived through it, I can now say this to you with a bit more certainty than when death was a useful but purely intellectual concept:

No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don't want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life's change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.

Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.

When I was young, there was an amazing publication called The Whole Earth Catalog, which was one of the bibles of my generation. It was created by a fellow named Stewart Brand not far from here in Menlo Park, and he brought it to life with his poetic touch. This was in the late 1960's, before personal computers and desktop publishing, so it was all made with typewriters, scissors, and polaroid cameras. It was sort of like Google in paperback form, 35 years before Google came along: it was idealistic, and overflowing with neat tools and great notions.

Stewart and his team put out several issues of The Whole Earth Catalog, and then when it had run its course, they put out a final issue. It was the mid-1970s, and I was your age. On the back cover of their final issue was a photograph of an early morning country road, the kind you might find yourself hitchhiking on if you were so adventurous. Beneath it were the words: "Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish." It was their farewell message as they signed off. Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish. And I have always wished that for myself. And now, as you graduate to begin anew, I wish that for you.

Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

Thank you all very much.
Steve Jobs
http://news.stanford.edu/news/2005/june15/jobs-061505.html

peach heaven

2011-10-02T13:23:00.000-07:00

Fresh peaches. I love them best just as they are and have loaded up all the bins in the fridge with peaches, freshly picked from Ashlee & Paul's (thank you). If I could hoard them and have them last for months, I would, but I know that too soon the season will be over. So the making of peach freezer jam will begin and I will also cut up & freeze plenty for peach shakes and cobblers to be enjoyed year round.

-Brenda

A New School Year for Abby

2011-10-02T09:37:00.000-07:00

Abby has started her Jr. year at Orem High. Her social circle is widening and her social calendar may be filling up, but still she... loves home & family, sister time, likes quiet 'down' time, curling up with a good book, playing the piano, watching movies, keeping a tidy room, cooking dinner with Katie, spending time with Conrad & Phoebe... our little girl is growing up quite lovely and is really not so little anymore :)
-Brenda

Dirty Happiness

2011-10-02T07:48:00.000-07:00

Larry picked up a trailer load of rich, dark compost for me. Yes, that's love, because he thinks that more dirt is the last thing I need. I looked forward to getting my hands in it all week, but things kept coming up. I am thinking that working in the dark with my head light may be the way to go this week. So, Saturday was my day. I got up at 6:30am with my heart happy. Larry got a phone call at 6:30am and was called in to work a double shift at the hospital... something we are all still getting used to. I swore in my head, said a few sarcastic things to Larry and walked off, barely giving him a hug goodbye and went outside to shovel dirt. It didn't take me long to know I wasn't being supportive, that I wanted to give him a better hug and say how proud I was of him and how grateful I am that he is so reliable and such a hard worker. I text him right away and told him there would be a better hug for him when he got home. I played in the dirt for a couple of hours, then had to set it aside for the day... Costco with Abby, watching General Conference, laundry, a neighborhood fall picnic, making dinner with my girls. Spending time with Abby was wonderfully nice. When Conrad got here, it sure didn't take him long to find my dirt.
-Brenda

Life Lessons

2011-10-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

A deep thought I woke up with. Sometimes the lessons life teaches all of us take time to learn... before we have an ah ha moment. I read somewhere that we waste up to 5 years of our life waiting... in store lines, traffic, appointments, for other people. I wonder how many years I have worried or spent time thinking about things that are beyond my control. Time wasted that I can't get back. I can only move forward, with a daily resolve to let some things go and focus on the little things each day that can bring peace. I am learning that hard times can either break us or make us stronger. We can lose faith or we can grow closer to the Lord. I think it is a daily process and we will all have moments or days of both. Each day is a choice.
-Brenda

Family History Trip

2011-09-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

I can never thank Arlene enough. Tyler's Mom and Dad are helping me organize and document my family history and it has been a such a joyful experience. It's one of the many projects I have started and stopped through the years. They are on an LDS Family History Mission in Salt Lake and offered to help me. I know I will understand the programs more each time, but for now, I am so grateful for the help. I am amazed how quickly she knows how to search through things for documentation and how she double checks names and dates on census lists. We made such good headway today only because she worked on my family names long before I got up there. Thank you for the lunch and nice visit too... I am glad we are family :)

-Brenda

Welcome Home & Happy Birthday

2011-09-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

Josh made it home from his month long visit to see his Dad in Michigan. Kelsie has not stopped smiling :) We celebrated his birthday with wings, coleslaw and his favorite funfetti cake. Welcome home Josh, we are sure glad to have you back!

-Brenda

Canned Tomatoes

2011-09-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking a lot about tomatoes this summer which only means one thing... it's time to bottle! Spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, chili, soups and salsa.... nearly everything we make is made better with tomatoes. (I love the flavor... not the chunks) I stayed home from work one day, put on an apron and looked forward to my day of nesting and bottling. I opened up the front and back door and felt the canyon breeze go through the house and knew I was in heaven just being home. I bottled up three dozen quarts today and have another 5 dozen to go. Hopefully we will have a late cold spell this fall and get many more tomatoes from now until then.

-Brenda

Ashlee 5 months

2011-09-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

I talked Ashlee into a five month picture when we were watching Conrad play soccer. A boy due January 24. She is radiant. So is Paul. Actually, we all are when we think of our answered prayers for this child. God is good!

-Brenda

Starting Soccer

2011-09-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

Conrad is starting soccer and it has been so fun to watch all the young kids learn the basic skills of the game. I love to see the kids off doing summersaults as their competitive parents look in dismay. Conrad is having fun, though he does look longingly at the playground and looks forward to playing there even more afterwards. Watching him try get his foot moves together with Ransom was completely endearing. The games are sure to be entertaining :)

-Brenda

Celebrating Phoebe

2011-09-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

We gathered at the park to celebrate Phoebe. An amazing one year old... doesn't time go by too quickly? It feels like she has been a part of our lives forever. Katie took her in for the yearly doctor visit and she is at the 2.3% in weight... such a tiny thing. Yet mighty!

With Conrad in the hospital this past week, we all pitched in quickly and helped Katie prepare for her special day. Kelsie & Abby sewed her birthday dress, we baked cupcakes, blew up balloons, made banners... When it was time to open presents, Ransom could not get her Cabbage Patch Doll out quickly enough for Phoebe. Once out, Phoebe held on tightly to her new friend that she will hopefully love a lifetime. She loved the books too and wanted Ransom to read to her. Ashlee crochet her cute little shoes for her feet. This morning, Conrad was little mermaid and played on a huge rock with a "Dinglehopper" (pine needles). He would gladly sing when asked :)
-Brenda

OHS Washington DC Trip

2011-09-15T22:45:00.000-07:00

Abby is off to Washington DC with a group of OHS history students and some of her favorite teachers for a week of history adventure. They were able to fly late at night and hit the ground running through New York for several hours early morning before catching their flight to Washington DC. She texts us occasionally and is having a great time. When she was taking a tour of the White House, their group got to see President Obama wave at them and get into the helicopter. Politics aside, that would be cool for her. I wonder if he is going on vacation? We are looking forward to hearing her stories when she gets back.

-Brenda

OHS Homecoming

2011-09-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

Abby was asked to Homecoming at Orem High. First date. First school dance. A little nervous except very happy to go with her good friend Matt Leavitt. He made her a very cool movie that we watched over and over again and she answered yes with an alarm in his room, in the middle of the night. Very eye opening to go dress shopping. Too short. Too low. Too tight. Wrong size. Honestly? Who wears these dresses? She thankfully found one that she liked. Kelsie helped with hair and makeup. Conrad put on headbands and wanted to show Abby how to dance and everyone was here for the pick up moment. They went power tumbling on their day date and Brick Oven Pizza for dinner. She had a most wonderful time...

-Brenda

Answered Prayers

2011-09-08T20:51:00.000-07:00

Life changed with a phone call. Conrad had fallen into the Provo Rec. Pool while swimming with his Dad, Phoebe and the young men in his church family. Accidents can happen so quickly and will become learning lessons. He was pulled out unconscious with no pulse, but all the right things were done and he was taken to Utah Valley Hospital, then transferred up to Primary Children's Hospital. Everyone could not have been more helpful or kind. I will always remember hearing Larry's blessing for Conrad, as Ransom held him in the Provo ER. I stood near the outside curtain and folded my arms and bowed my head. As Larry spoke, many of the medical people stopped and folded their arms in prayer outside of the room and I felt incredibly thankful for the gospel in our lives and the comfort that a blessing can bring.

I am not sure what to say. This experience will take time to work through and to fully appreciate & understand. It's not enough to say I am thankful, it goes much deeper than that. I think one day I will be able to get my feelings into words, but for now I thought I would post pictures of Conrad at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake and let you see how he is doing. He is still thankfully our fun loving, good natured boy and will make a 100% recovery. Thank you for your prayers. We felt them around us and know our prayers were answered. We love each of you. He came home this afternoon.

Primary Children's Hospital is an amazing place. You can feel the spirit there so strongly as you watch them serve the children in such loving ways... many, many in heartbreaking situations. I am already thinking of ways to give back and help the children there.
-Brenda

When he was first sent up to Primary Children's Hospital,
Conrad was checked out by a lot of medical people...
he screamed a lot and was so miserable. The only thing that

would begin to comfort him was being in his Mom and Dad's arms.

The next day, Conrad was still on oxygen and
continued to be watch over. He never did warm up to the
poking and prodding from the medical people

Snuggling time watching his favorite Disney movies

A visit from Phoebe helped a lot. She must have given him 10 kisses

in a row and he finally waved his arms and said "I'm done"

He loved to visit the Play Area down the hall...

a child's dream filled with the coolest toys and activities

Yes... he is potty trained, but hospital pull-ups came in handy

because he was attached to so many tubes

Knowing he would be ok put smiles on our faces

Our Pixie

2011-08-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

Kelsie finally did it... she chopped off her hair and we are more than loving it!

-Brenda

First Day of Preschool for Conrad

2011-08-30T20:14:00.000-07:00

Conrad started pre-school today and we bribed him into taking pictures for just a few minutes before he took off again ... our nearly 4 year old bundle of energy.

-Brenda

Conrad spelled his name

He doesn't even like raspberries...

2011-08-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

It was the perfect evening to pick raspberries... again in Mapleton for $3 a pound. You have to pick a lot of them to fill up a bucket and they are already tucked into the freezer for winter. There were little thorns on the raspberry bushes, that after a while, became quite scratchy. Conrad nearly ate his weight in raspberries. Phoebe loved the dog. I would look over at Larry as we picked and thought how truly blessed I am to have Larry in my life, by my side... he doesn't really even like raspberries... but he surely loves me.

-Brenda

Find raspberries at : 1849 S. 2100 W. Mapleton Utah. His name is Wayne McBride phone # is 801-367-0755. He and his wife could not be nicer! Spread the word too...

Walking...

2011-08-28T22:45:00.000-07:00

Phoebe (11 months) has been walking around furniture for quite a while now and even has taken her fair share of shaky steps, but this week she really has taken off, walking nearly everywhere her brother Conrad goes...

-Brenda

Blackberries

2011-08-23T21:56:00.000-07:00

Is there anything better than fresh picked berries? Nope. We found a wonderfully cool farm in Mapleton, a "you pick" for $3 pound. All we had to do was patiently wait until they were at their peak, then we couldn't get there fast enough. This week we picked blackberries that were larger then our thumbs and so sweet. I think I would still be there picking, but we ran out of daylight. We tucked them into the freezer right away and look forward to jams, smoothies and cobblers this winter. Seeing them tucked away in our freezer reminds me of my sister Becky, who has her very own berry farm in Tennessee. The raspberry crop is right behind them... and we will be off picking once again. I would love a freezer full of berries :)

-Brenda

Skype

2011-08-21T21:56:00.001-07:00

We have discovered Skyping... thanks to my nephew Charles and now our Utah / Tennessee world has just gotten closer. Today we got to see Becky & Scott, Charles, Randy & Ethan and our Nana AND Katie Coon, their raccoon. So very cool!!! They got to visit with Conrad and Phoebe and the rest of us on our end. I didn't want to say goodbye and I wanted to call back right away just to look at them. Best news? Becky and Ethan are flying out in October for a much needed visit. We are all counting down the days :)
-Brenda

Beauty by Elmers

2011-08-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

Hmmm... it has been said that Elmer's Glue is great for removing black heads (Kelsie thinks she has some, and Abby did it because I think Kelsie can talk her into doing just about anything). Kelsie and Abby thought they would give it a try and they waited patiently while it dried... it was pretty itchy and slightly painful, but they both gave the process a thumbs up. Pretty cool huh?
-Brenda

It's a Boy!!!!!!!

2011-08-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

The news is out! Paul & Ashlee just announced they will be having a boy. Due January 24ish, 2012. We are still in constant prayer that all will continue to go well and so thankful she is now 17 weeks along. We also know that he comes with countless prayers to get him here from many of our family & friends. We are so in love with him already and are counting the days until we can hold him in our arms...
-Brenda

Pet Worm

2011-08-14T21:14:00.000-07:00

Tonight Conrad discovered a worm poking out of the ground as he was playing with the garden hose. He lovingly carried it around and tried to feed it some dirt... 'I love it Gamma, he's my friend!' I understand his love for the worm... something I think he got from me :)
-Brenda

Sleepout

2011-08-13T15:45:00.000-07:00

Friday night sleepover with my two grandsons. The boys helped build a fire and added 'brown stuff' to it all evening from anything they could find in the backyard. We roasted hot dogs and marshmallows, then made our hut of blankets and arranged our sleeping bags... mine had two foam pads. I ran in to get my jammies on and came out and the boys had already arranged themselves... Conrad so happy on the two foam pads saying, "I like it here". We traded places after he fell asleep. We read Five Chinese Brothers... with a Chinese accent by flashlight, sang songs and talked. What is your favorite thing to eat? Carter said he didn't have favorites, but Conrad just started naming them off... 'I like chocolate milk, brown cereal, blue cereal, gam crackers, strawberries...' We fell asleep smelling like smoke :) Did I say I loved being a Grandma?

-Brenda

A Shower for Erika

2011-08-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

It was a perfect summer evening for a backyard shower. Girl across the street (Erika) will marry boy next door (Scott). Good food, a light breeze, pretty flowers (thank you ahead of time Marci... I visited your yard while you were gone on your girl retreat... just a few snips and part of you was with us) and wonderful company. I think I would be just happy throwing parties and bringing people together. It brings me joy. Afterwards, I disappointedly noticed I didn't get a picture of me or of Suzette with Erika... I love this girl :)

-Brenda

Harvesting the Garden

2011-08-10T22:41:00.000-07:00

I came home to piles of homegrown veggies on the counter... all cleaned and ready to go. I was speechless and then I thought, 'I have to take a picture' to capture this moment. This is what success looks like! Our garden generally gives way to weeds by August, never producing too much. Not this year. Under the watchful care of Kelsie and Abby, our garden is blossoming. Thank you girls!!!
-Brenda

Earning $$$ for Wasington DC

2011-08-10T22:25:00.000-07:00

Abby gets to go with a small group of OHS history students to Washington DC this fall with her history teacher Reggie Reese. A few of her friends are going which will make it extra fun. She is so excited! Years past, we were able to treat the girls to this trip. Now in this economy? We can pay half and she has to earn half. I know. It isn't fair... but life isn't always fair and in our favor. Thankfully, she has pitched in with very little complaining and is doing odd jobs around the house to help earn money... Thank you Abby!
-Brenda

Temple with Josh

2011-08-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

This morning Josh received his endowments in the Timpanogos LDS temple. We were glad to be part of this special day for him and enjoyed the wonderful lunch that his grandparents had afterwards. He is much loved by all of us. (Goodbye to the go kart... a story for another day.)

-Brenda

Josh and his Grandpa David Balmforth

Birrell Family Reunion 2011

2011-08-05T06:42:00.000-07:00

We all had a good time at Larry's family reunion... two days spent together. Our favorite was playing Minute to Win It and just visiting with everyone. Swimming is the choice of all the young kids. Conrad stayed in the pool the entire time, until every part of him was shriveled. Larry's Mom, Betty is recovering from her surgery and needed to take it easy... we are very thankful she is doing better. Thank you Julie for planning it this year!

-Brenda

Hanging Out

2011-08-01T21:19:00.000-07:00

We all have dreams. Mine have never been to see the entire world or to have a lot of toys, clothes or fancy cars. There is no place I have traveled that I am not grateful to come home... Home is where family is or the space in our hearts we carry our loved ones that don't live nearby. It's the little things that happen within the walls of our home [and hearts] that bring me the most joy.
-Brenda

Chalk art

Duck

'Move' (Conrad's words)

Spur of the moment wrestling

or rolling up the kids...

Home from Camp

2011-07-30T22:16:00.000-07:00

Abby's home from Camp Shalom! She had a great time, used plenty of mosquito repellent and enjoyed being a 5 year leader in charge of the younger girls in our church family. I am looking forward to hearing more details on her blog in the coming days (a hint for Abby to move it along!) ... I missed going this year and being with the girls.
-Brenda

Maddie, Abby, Mikayla & Melanie

Half Marathon and 5k

2011-07-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

Oh the power of one set of sisters! It makes me think of the tenacity of Kelsie & Katie. Kelsie talked Katie (who talked/told Ransom & his brother Ryan) into running the Timpanogos Half Marathon. As they trained, I simply said that most people start with a 5k first, which meant to them that I didn't believe in them. "You think we are crazy!" Actually, I couldn't be more proud of them for pushing through and going after something that was so out of their box. They got up at 3am and started the race up American Fork canyon by 5:40am. We were excited to watch them make it to the mouth of the canyon, then we dropped off Josh at the finish line and Ashlee, the kids and I went to watch Larry & Paul's 5k... yes, Kelsie talked them into that one too!

Ransom & Ryan ran the entire 13 miles and were plenty sore for a couple of days. I believe Ransom said, "Never again". He likes riding bicycles.

Larry and Paul ran the 5k Coopers Run in Orem. They ran it pretty quickly and got hosed down at the end by the fire trucks. Cooper was a little boy that was accidentally run over in his driveway a couple of few years ago. His amazing parents are putting their grief into good things in honor of him. There was such a special feeling as they released the doves. I think both Paul and Larry would do it again, but would like to train more. The helicopter landing at the end was cool! As for the ones that didn't race, we got up early to take pictures and found ourselves tired afterwards too!

-Brenda

The family that weeds together...

2011-07-28T06:48:00.000-07:00

From the planning to the picking, Kelsie & Abby are doing a good job maintaining the family garden this year and it is showing big time... the vegetables are bigger than the weeds... a miraculous feat in and of itself! We are looking forward to green beans, carrots, potatoes, peppers & heirloom tomatoes in the coming month. Their help is much needed & very appreciated :)
-Brenda

Real Salt Lake

2011-07-23T22:10:00.000-07:00

We finally decided it was time to go to a 'Real' soccer game and picked a night that they would also be doing fireworks. I thought the Stadium was way cool and we were grateful for the slight breeze that came our way. We sat near the band... they played the entire night. Carter and Conrad were happiest with their treats. Carter and I spent our time tearing paper into tiny pieces and every time they would score, we would throw them in the air. Sometimes we liked to see how many we could lightly place on Ashlee's head without her noticing. Carter also made friends with the women who sat behind us... Aside from Ransom's brother Ryan, none of us were too familiar with the rules and we still aren't. We will learn as Conrad starts to play soccer this fall. The Fireworks were spectacular!

-Brenda

First Cousin Sleepover

2011-07-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

This is hopefully the first of many cousin nights we will have at Grandpa and Grandmas. We started late when we got home from the soccer game in Salt Lake and once we got home, Conrad & Carter both fell asleep quickly under a hut made from blankets. We are planning a sleepover in the backyard next.

-Brenda

CHA Chicago

2011-07-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

If I had to sum up this week, I would call it a 'homecoming'. The summer CHA Tradeshow in Chicago (Craft and Hobby Association). As I looked around this year, I am probably the oldest in the group, not by age, but involvement in the scrapbook market, going on 20 years. There are many people I dearly love. We come together twice a year and catch up. Often tired in preparation for the show, struggling with the balancing of life and always seeking ways to simplify. We understand each other and know the stress that owning a business can bring and we cheer each other on...
-Brenda

Lisa (of Crate Paper) and Brenda

Prayers Answered.

2011-07-20T21:26:00.000-07:00

Ashlee called me today to say she finally blogged her news. She is now 13 weeks pregnant and due January 24. Of course, many in our lives already know it, in a quiet kind of way. She has a cute belly, she has become an even more picky eater (if that is possible), she is more emotional, she is having painful issues with her si joint, she is tired... but she is pregnant. We have to pinch ourselves... as we continue to pray. We are thankful beyond words and know what good parents she and Paul will be.
-Brenda

Second try with invitro. She had to be on complete bed rest for one week
very early on. Conrad loved to go over and snuggle with his La-La.

Going for a walk

2011-07-15T23:01:00.000-07:00

Conrad lives to be outside. He loves to go for walks and this time, he pulled Phoebe along in the weeding stool and had his Mom follow him in his $3 yardsale trike... she kept up pretty good too.
-Brenda

Harry Potter Party

2011-07-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

The invitations arrived this past week... we believe by owl. We were invited to a Harry Potter Party planned by Katie & Lindsey... the best way to celebrate one of their most loved books that they have grown up with. 12 years of reading & re-reading the books, listening to all of them on Audi during family road trips (LOVED them!) Tonight we dressed as Muggles and excitedly began our party. Thank you girls!
Memories:
The wizard treats we were each assigned to bring. Pin the lightening bolt on Harry Potter. Harry Potter Treasure Hunt. Nearly Headless Nick Hot Potato. Name my character. Watched Harry Potter 7 part one to get ourselves ready for the final movie coming out. Conrad in dress up clothes. Snuggling with Carter. Feeling grateful that the guys so willingly participate in the things that mean the most to our girls.
-Brenda

Phoebe 10 Months

2011-07-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

Taking first steps. Willful. Bright eyed. Quirky. Quite attached to her Mom & Dad. Always up for eating and not picky. Loves to play peak a boo. Delicate skin aka a non-tanner. Terrific screamer at times, thankfully not always. Crawls quickly. Likes to chat. Giggles. Patty cake. Goofy. Light sleeper. 3% size on growth / weight chart. A mighty spirit. Oh so very loved!
-Brenda

It's easy to see that the days of saying '123 smile' to Conrad are a

thing of the past... it's painful to watch. I will now need to just catch
him as is... which is best anyway.

No Lift Off

2011-07-07T22:53:00.000-07:00

Up very early with the sun and we followed the crowds to the hot air balloon lift off. Cloudy skies and unpredictable winds kept them grounded, though many were blown up and they stayed anchored to the round. The kids and Ransom were plenty tired. We came home to Katie's breakfast of strawberry / creme cheese filled french toast.
-Brenda

Happy Birthday Larry Boy

2011-07-05T22:46:00.000-07:00

It was a happy surprise that Larry didn't have to work at the hospital on his Bday (July 3). We canceled our visiting teachers and gave him the gift of a 5 hour nap... much needed. He woke up to dinner, a game of Speed and an ice cream sundae bar. He couldn't be more loved by all of us!

-Brenda

Fourth of July weekend begins...

2011-07-03T15:49:00.000-07:00

The long Fourth of July weekend is here. Saturday, we went to Tyler & Lindsey's for some good homemade pizza before going swimming. Innertube diving, Speed, handstand competitions and a bit of synchronized swimming made it was extra fun! The ones that were up for it went to see the fireworks outside of Stadium of Fire... playing duck duck 'move' with the kids until they started. Bedtime never felt so good.

-Brenda

Graham Crappers

2011-06-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

Our Grandson Carter is here for the rest of the summer, so we welcomed him home with a BBQ and smore's. The girls made yummy side salads. When Conrad got there, Carter's first words to him were, 'You can talk!'. Conrad was so happy to see him and they played and wrestled together the rest of the night, going around the yard and finding anything 'brown' that they could burn. I love how building a fire turns dinnertime into a long summer evening outside. Perfect weather. Conrad would hold his wood on his lap and waited patiently for the fire to burn down. We asked if they wanted to go to the park and play... they would not leave the thrill of the fire. Carter did a good job making us s'mores with graham 'crappers'. Ashlee gave the guys haircuts, playing around with Ransom's style... then it was off to play four square.
-Brenda

Taking a Dip

2011-06-27T22:39:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went swimming at Larry's Mom and Dad's. A good cool down after a long work day. We picked up dinner on the way over and jumped in quickly. Larry has been working long hours and took our picture right before he fell asleep under the patio. The girls still like playing 'Colored Eggs' whenever we go there and surprisingly, the guys will play along too!

-Brenda

Waiting

2011-06-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy week, filled with a lot of praying and waiting. Wednesday, it was Josh waiting for his mission call. Friday, Kelsie waits to see if she is accepted into the UVU nursing program. All of her studies, testing and interviews are completed and now the waiting. 11am the mail is supposed to be here. It's not. Every car that drives by, brings Kelsie to the window. Finally, they just wait outside under the shade of a tree. The mail finally came, but no letter. It came Saturday though and she was accepted and I don't believe I have ever seen Kelsie filled with such uncontainable joy. The best part was when she gleefully said, "Mom, I'm going places!" We couldn't be more proud of her and know she will make a wonderful nurse.
-Brenda

South Africa

2011-06-22T22:50:00.000-07:00

South Africa? I swear I didn't hear it right. Josh got his mission call today in the mail and we got together for the envelope opening. Elder Joshua David Balmforth has been called to serve for two years in the South Africa Johannesburg Mission this November for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We all guessed where we thought he would be going, but no one guessed right. The winner would get to take Josh out for ice cream. I have a feeling we will take him anyway. I was hoping for a safer place in the states, but I know that mission calls are inspired and he will be in the Lord's hands doing His work, where he needs to be. The experiences he will have and the foundation this will give him will be life changing and I am so very proud of him.
-Brenda

A day off.

2011-06-22T05:58:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day, the kids surprised Larry and pitch in at Pebbles to get his workload done. Yesterday was his day off from the hospital and they told us we were not allowed to go into work. Could the work world exist without us for a day? In the busy-ness of life it is easy to fall into the mindset of the need to get things done. For us, the question was "What do we want to do?" Not need to do, not have to do... but really want. Honestly, we didn't know. We slept in, we went to the health food store, we picked up lunch at Milagros and went up the canyon and read for hours on a piece of shady grass by the river. Heaven. We have a lot to think about as we try to find better balance in our lives... we need more time to just be together. We came home to the girls making us a homemade dinner. It was an especially wonderful day...
-Brenda

On the road again...

2011-06-22T05:44:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe. Our Abby just completed drivers ed. & her road test and is now ready to go get her driver's license. Now, if only she had a car... for now, she can share with me. She has been a good driver ever since I would take her and Kelsie driving at night time on the roads near our home. She loved to practice parking in the parking lots too when we played our parking lot game. She does tend to speed up when going around the corners and is getting to know how to get to the different places in town.
-Brenda

Time at Strawberry

2011-06-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

We decided to head out to Strawberry for some fresh air and hopefully a fish or two. I know June is never a good month to fish Strawberry, so I brought a good book also. Ransom and Katie brought the bacon for crabbing. A strong wind started and the water is still icy cold. With our very wet spring, it is amazingly green with patches of snow under the north ledges. We huddled in blankets from the wind, gave up on fishing & crabbing and watched the kids explore. It was still good to get out, but we are sure longing for some warmer summer weather.
-Brenda

A Good Foundation.

2011-06-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

I have been stocking up on grains so we can mix them into a 7 grain mix for food storage and grind it for bread making... a mixture of hard red wheat, spelt, amaranth, white rice, quinoa, millet and kamut. Fabulous grains that will offer a more total protein for bread. We threw in a cup of Diatomaceous Earth to keep the bugs from forming in it too.

Somewhere along the way, I messed up on my figures and ended up with 4,000 lbs. What was going to fit into a tidy 25 5 gallon buckets, has now grown into 80 buckets. This is one time though that less isn't more and one day we will need it. Meanwhile, I am excited to begin making bread again. I look at the 80 buckets and repeat to myself... this is a good foundation, this is a good foundation. Thank goodness we had plenty of help... the girls measured the needed amounts of each one and the guys mixed each batch in a tarp which worked great... thank you Ryan & Mark for pitching in too!

The best part, was on the second day while Larry was at work, Paul came up with the idea of all of us surprising Larry and getting the rest done (Yes. We ran out of buckets on the first day). Larry was puzzled for a while, but smiled big once he caught on.
-Brenda

Bountiful Baskets & Strawberry Jam

2011-06-12T22:30:00.000-07:00

Every weekend we get a box from Bountiful Baskets, a co-op that supports small farms. Cool fruits and vegetables that are different each week... sometimes we don't even know what some of them are, but it is a good way to try out new things. It reminds of a farmers market in a box. Then they have add on sales and this week we ordered 5 loaves of whole wheat bread and cases of strawberries, which we promptly made into strawberry freezer jam. My favorite days are nesting at home and my mind is busy trying to figure out ways to get more of them...
-Brenda

Moab

2011-06-12T00:34:00.000-07:00

Climbing the Delicate Arch and going to Goblin Valley are some of the things on Josh's wish list he has never done. It was nice going when it wasn't so hot in the season, but it felt plenty hot enough. Larry, Ash & Paul needed to stay home and were missed. We went on all sorts of hikes and I again promised myself not to be the struggling, chubby lady next summer. We found a cool campsite "Riverside Oasis" that had plenty of green grass, shade and clean HOT showers which were a dream to come back to at the end of the day.

Memories: Tin foil dinners and hotdogs. Lots of peanut butter & jelly sandwiches. Conrad loves to throw rocks and pick up sticks. He likes to do everything himself, though at the end of the Delicate Arch hike he was begging to go back to his much hated car seat for sleep. Last hike of the trip, we hiked near a stream and Conrad would quickly take off his clothes and get in the water to discover crawdads and minnows. I re-discovered my love for reading. Katie sleeping with Phoebe in the Suburban so the campground could be quiet. Eating at Zack's and watching 4 adults devour a piece of Conrad's all you can eat child's buffet pizza in four quick bites... we were starved. Conrad peeing in his baseball cap. Singing to Johnny Cash and Neil Diamond on the way home...
-Brenda