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Tribute to Dad for his Birthday

2011-01-23T00:32:00.000-08:00

Dad in the back yard with his favorite flowers

At this time of year we think back to all the birthdays we got to celebrate with Dad.
This picture reminds us of his love of flowers and working in his yard.
This Jan. 30th, he would have been 88 years old.

Happy Birthday Dad.

cold drink with ice
vegetables with every meal
baseball hats
root beer floats
leading the music, while listening to the choir
working in the yard
holding the youngest grandchild
watching all sports
making his special coleslaw
coughing
loved his family name and all it stood for
carried out his church callings more than 100 %

Leave your favorite memory of Dad/Grandpa in the comments

The two brothers

Dad and Uncle Jerry were always together, they even followed each other to the other side of the veil. Happy Birthday to Uncle Jerry on the 28th.

FAMILY REUNION!

2010-05-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

I would like to have another reunion! We have had so much fun at previous reunions and the last one i didn't get to go to since i was on my honeymoon. SO...I realize no one really wants to plan it or organize it, so I am willing to, but I still need help on where you want it (i would love to go camping again, maybe tahoe?) and when is the best time for everyone? I am serious about trying to put this together so please respond with any suggestions you have so we can try and arrange it at a good time for everyone! Thanks guys :)

THIS IS ALSO AN EVENT ON FACEBOOK, IF YOU HAVE IT, PLEASE RESPOND ON THERE BECAUSE I CHECK IT MORE OFTEN!

Love, Rach

Happy Birthday Ron

2010-05-16T09:02:00.001-07:00

We hope your birthday is particularly enjoyable day for you. When Ron was born we thought he would be the "caboose" but he was such a fun little guy that Mom and Dad followed up with two more. I remember when I was 12 and Ron was 2 that I carried him on my back as we were on a hike on a family camping trip to Lake Tahoe area. Not going to try that these days as Ron turns 52.

Here are some things we think of about Ron:

Ron knows how to tell great stories
He has a hearty laugh
He is resourceful - especially when something needs to be fixed
He loves sports
He works hard with youth
He loves to coach
He has a tender heart
He has the gift of gab
He invests himself in his family
He married a great wife
He loves his children and shows it
He loves the Lord and works hard in the church wherever he is called
He is a good friend
He is a pretty good cook
He stays involved with his community
And many more unmentioned

Ron we are glad that you were not hurt in your car accident. Next time be sure that you are in the car that you want to get rid of. Seriously, we are happy that your injuries were not worse - even though you are probably pretty sore today.

Well, family that is the tribute for this year of all the siblings - we have a great family and I am happy to a part of it.

Lyla's Blessing Day!

2010-03-22T11:04:00.001-07:00

Lyla was blessed in church yesterday and she looked beautiful! Josh did a great job, and she was awake during the blessing, but very content just looking around at all the men holding her. We had lots of family there and feel very blessed to have such a wonderful supportive family.

Here she is in her dress, which was bought by Grandma R

Our new little family of three!

Here is all of the family that came! Since we don't have any family in town all of them had to travel to be there. A big thank you to everyone for making the sacrifice to be with us on Lyla's important day.

This is all the men that were in the circle.
Uncle Todd, Rhett, Daren, Grandpa, Dad, Great Grandpa, Ty, Davis, Derek

This is my cousin Lydia just beaming as Lyla gave her huge smiles! She has been smiling more and more this week and we are loving it.

And proud first-time Uncle Derek

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JJ

2010-03-07T08:31:00.001-08:00

JJ is our baby brother - and he just turned 39 on the 5th of March. This baby brother loved by all just loves to be called the "baby brother". He has 4 older sisters that have mothered him his whole life and 2 older brothers that have teased him his whole life. Here are some qualities that we admire in JJ:

Hardest worker you will ever know
First to help when he sees a need
Loves his family
Very involved father
Chooses to do the right thing
Loves the Lord
Studies the scriptures
Takes such good care of Mother
Loves the outdoors
Loves physical activity
Good friend
Fun Uncle to his many nieces and nephews
Generous
Happy guy to be around
Loves his wife
All around great guy

...and so much more. Happy, happy birthday JJ - we all love you and are so happy to have a youngest brother just like you.

Happy Birthday Randy

2010-02-22T19:36:00.001-08:00

Here is our brother Randall Wayne - and he is now 60!! What a wonderful decade to enjoy. Randy is the oldest brother and though he has an older sister - he so loves to be called the "older brother".

Here are some of the traits of Randy:

Speaks only when he has something to say
Loves his family - a lot
Fixes his vehicles - and they actually work
Fixes other things - a fix it up kind of guy
Loves to play golf
Teases until you want to deck him
Has been working on the railroad - a long time
Lived in California his whole life until he moved to Colorado
Witty
Likes baseball games
Observant
Likes kids - especially two granddaughters that belong to him
Keeps his yard looking good
Looks a lot like his dad
Can follow instructions
Dry humor
Loves to camp
Truman Taylor always called him George

And of course many more - have a wonderful birthday - George - oh I mean Randy - born on George Washington's birthday - We hope you have a great 60th year...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LINDA

2010-01-17T12:41:00.001-08:00

I would like to first say I'm sorry for :
A. The timing, this was supposed to be done last week and I got bogged down by new grand daughter, grand child birthday...... yeah, just fill in the rest!
B. The picture, I couldn't find a better one and this needed to be done NOW!

So to say Linda is a big part of our lives is a total understatement. She is the oldest and has always been there for all of us!

Linda's best qualities are :

Generous

Organized

Always working to better herself

Her hands are never idle

Plays the piano beautifully

Helps us to remember our ancestors

Feeds the masses -- Family dinners!

Loves to read

Strong testimony of the Gospel

Always see what others would need.. then helps!!

The "go to" person when you need any helpful hints for, lessons, most any calling.

Great Mom/Grandmother

Her door is always open..(how many of you know the code to the garage???)

When Linda was sent to earth first I am sure we all said, OK, I can go down now, she will be there to help me!

I hope you had a fabulous birthday!!

Love,

Carna

Happy Birthday Cookie

2009-12-23T07:22:00.001-08:00

Here is our pretty, newly svelte (as Dad would say) sister. I guess most of us remember the Christmas Day that Cookie came home wrapped in a soft white blanket with a big red bow around her. It is one of my most memorable Christmases. No matter how old she gets she continues to be our baby sister.

Here are some of the qualities of this little sister:

Generous
Laughs easily
Great story teller
Happy mother
Encouraging to others
Plays the piano well
Loyal to family
Strong testimony of the Gospel
Can drive long distances
Gives of herself
Such discipline!!
Great smile
Sews well
Likes to read
Amazing scrapbooker

And so many more....Happy, Happy Birthday to our sister, Cookie - we love you and hope you have a wonderful day/year.

Happy Birthday Carolyn

2009-12-19T05:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to our sister,Carolyn. This is not an accurate picture of her as she is getting smaller each week. We will need to update a picture soon.
Here are some of the qualities of Carolyn:

Helping others - she is always there if you need her
Mother of six
Friend of many
Hard worker
So creative
Spontaneous
and Plans things out to the last detail
Opens her home to others
Gathers family together
Scrapbooker extraordinaire
Crafter
Planner of parties
Executer of parties
Always improving herself
Testimony of the Gospel
Loves her family
Sacrifices for the good of those she loves
Excellent shopper
Accepting of others
See the needs of others
Resouceful for meeting needs
And so much, much more...

Happy, Happy Birthday Carolyn. You are loved by your family and so many others. Thanks for your good example and love that you share so freely.

Happy Birthday Cindy

2009-12-06T16:51:00.001-08:00

Here is our cute sister, aunt, sister-in-law, etc. etc or however you may be related to her.

Sorry this picture is so dark - but you all know how hard it is to get a picture of this girl! This is an untypical sight - Cindy lounging around. We would usually see her busily working on something.

Cindy has so many talents and abilities:

Self made successful business woman
Master quilter
Teaches others to quilt
Excellent hand seamstress
Tiler
Furniture finisher
Loves to read
Great at home decor
Great cook
Organized - every area at home and most likely at work also
Hard worker
Supportive sister
Helpful aunt
Intuitive daughter
Wraps a beautiful package
Good listener
Resourceful at learning what she doesn't know
Exercises and eats right
Yes, she has self discipline
And so much more...

Happy Birthday - don't forget how much you are loved by all your family!!

Thanksgiving at the Rowleys

2009-11-29T16:48:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving 2009 - with all the foods that the family likes. This year we had Hershey candy bars covered with light orange paper and a label that said Give Thanks. I am happy to buy Hershey candy bars now since my girls and I visited Hershey, PA and found out that the money from Hershey's candy goes to support a school in Hershey for at risk children. It makes me feel good that we are contributing to such a worthy cause.

Happy Thanksgiving Family!!

Tribute to Mom

2009-11-10T18:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mom

Mom and Linda, her first child on Mom's 80th birthday - two years ago.
Mom has lived in Roseville for the majority of her life.
Here is one of the many places Mom lived as she was growing up in Roseville.
Here are some fun facts about Mom:

Born in Los Angeles, California
Two sisters and two brothers
Moved to Roseville around age 5
Best friend: Norma
Married at 19 in Logan Temple
Seven Children
Lived in present house for 59 years so far
Loves holidays and decorates for each of them
Loves to read
Loves music - Warsaw Concerto and Clair de Lune - some her favorites
Loves the Scriptures
Attended Education Week (Leadership Week) for many years
Attended Know Your Religion for many years
Every grandchild feels her special love for them
Every great grandchild feels her special love for them
Loves the color blue
Crochets to relax
Enjoys meeting new people
She and Dad served a Stake Mission together
Has traveled to Eastern part of the United States and to Hawaii
Served as PTA President
Worked on Election Board since her early married years
Has always had a calling in her ward
Has lived in the same ward since she was 5.
Knows the Gospel and loves the Lord
Loves her family
And so, so much more -

Mom and most of her kids.
Happy, happy Birthday Mom, Grandma, GeeGee
We hope you have a wonderful birthday and remember how much we all love you...

shut up and HAVE FUN!!! Our weekend in San Francisco

2009-09-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

We had SOOOO much fun on our weekend trip to SF to see Wicked!! First thing we checked into our beautiful hotel

While Annaleesa and Carolyn checked us in, we hung out starting the relaxing weekend.

Then we were off to Union Square to check out the shopping. WOW that mall goes and goes up. The top 4 floors are Aunt Bonnie's special place!! (Nordstroms)

We loved the curving escalators, they wound upward for so many floors!!

Colleen found "her" chair and had her loyal subject come sit with her.

Allie thought she was special like Aunt Colleen and found that her loyal subject weren't so loyal.

The next morning we were up and out the door to go play!

We went and found the trolly cars to ride to Fisherman's Wharf!
Aunt Bonnie had to sit on Grandma's lap, there was standing room only!

We made it to Fisherman's Wharf and we were off to find the CHOCOLATE!!

AWWWW, we were in heaven!! They gave out samples!! YUMMY!

On our way to the chocolate we saw a trolley car with Wicked on it so, of course, we had to stop and take our picture with it!

Katie and Annaleesa found the chocolate first!!
Aunt Colleen liked the chocolate, but found her first love on a giant poster!!

To get up to the top level we found an elevator, it wasn't too hard to find. On our way down that we had the problem! We got on and couldn't remember which level was the street level. So we kept pushing the buttons and then peeking out to see if we had finally picked the right level. We went up and down several time before got it right!!

After we finally got out of the elevator, we went to find Aunt Bonnie some crab! Joe's Crab Shack was down the street!

All the waitresses stop and dance when certain songs come on the speakers! This is our waitress and she was such fun!!
there will be more later when we can get the blog to work!

She is blessed

2009-09-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

Ava is surrounded by her family that loves her and each other. Yes, Russ is holding a BYU cap over my head - He is in so much trouble!

The Hokansons joined us for the special day.

The Sanders Family - a family of five now with the
addition of Ava.

Ava is wearing the same dress that her mother, Alexis
wore almost 28 years ago when she was sealed and blessed.

Special day - special baby girl. We are so happy that Ava is blessed!

Big News from the Andersons!

2009-08-21T01:16:00.000-07:00

Elder Garrett Todd Anderson has recieved his mission call!

He will be serving in the Argentina Rosario Mission! He will report to the Provo MTC November 4th. He will speak Spanish like his father.

We are so proud of Garrett and so excited for him! You may woot.

New Family Member

2009-07-19T15:23:00.000-07:00

Here she is Ava Christine Sanders

This is our activity with the boys while we are waiting for the phone call from the hospital.

Here she is Ava Christine - surrounded by her family. They are now a family of five.

She weighed in at 8 pounds 6 ounces. She doesn't look much like her brothers but she is a cutie with a look all her own. She was born Friday, July 17th at 2:36 pm. Alexis says this was her hardest birth but she was bigger than the brothers before her. Alexis is doing fine now as is Ava.

Graduation Barbeque

2009-05-28T20:51:00.001-07:00

Allie's Graduation party!

Since this will be a fun day already, we wanted to add to the fun!

Come and enjoy a barbeque at Mom's house after the graduation, or during if you get really hungry. We will have burgers and hotdogs and salads galore! Everyone coming for Sara and Gary's wedding will be tired after a trip to the temple and ready to relax. (come even if you didn't go to the wedding!!) So come sit in Mom's nice back yard and enjoy dinner and family fun!

This is June 12th at about 7:30 ish

Come enjoy!!

Let us know if you are going to stop by so we can have plenty of food!

We can't wait to see everyone!

Family Recipes

2009-04-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

Hi,

Petra and I thought "oh what fun we will do a recipe book for all the girls in the family" (sorry guys!!) We gathered receipes and took pictures or found pictures. (we have one of Grandpa picking the berries in the back yard for the berry cobbler recipe!) Then we started putting it together, about 100 hours later we decided this was WAY more work than we thought. Soooo having said that, we have decided that we could do the pages and maybe color copy them for people that want them. So Rachel your job is to find some pictures of your Dad cooking. We have several Uncle Randy recipes that need better pictures.
And to all of you out there, if there is a recipe you can think of that we might not have, let us know. We have sat with Grandma several times picking her brain for things like her vegtable soup that always seems to be cooking on the stove when someone has driven a long distance to visit and of course her macaroni salad and sweet and sour pork, cheese cake, this list goes on and on. So hopefully we can get started again and create some more books

P.S.

2009-04-28T21:47:00.001-07:00

I am so way jealous Sara-Rae got a family recipe book!! I know my parents make a lot of grandmas recipes, but I don't have them all for sure. Is there a way I can get a copy of that book somehow?! If I need to pay you I will, those are priceless recipes that I love!

New Blogger in Town

2009-04-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

Caution, the fogeys have entered into the blogging world. Their blog address is: http://coloradoroskelleys.blogspot.com I can't add it to the side, only Linda can, but check it out from here for now. Hope you are all doing well!

2009-04-19T21:17:00.000-07:00

It was Tempel Day! Friday April 17th Sara Rae recived her own Endowments at the Sacramento Tempel. Grandma, Aunt Carna, Uncle JJ, Mom & Dad as well as what's his name (ok it's Gary) It was great going thru a session with the family. Also Tha CA. clan had a Bridal Shower, CArna and her gang of party givers did a great job. On to more wedding plans stay tune.

WICKED in the Fall

2009-04-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies of the Roskelley Clan -

We thought this might be the best way to reach everyone, since we are hoping that you all check out the family blog. Also, if we tried to call or email everyone we would probably miss someone and then everyone would hate us and give us dirty looks and threats at family functions and we want to avoid those, as we get enough already.

Petra and I are throwing this idea out there for all, with the XY chromosome, that would like to join us this Fall for a little fun. Wicked is showing at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco.

We are looking at sometime in September so that everyone that would like to come has time to save up some money. We are looking at a Saturday show so a Matinee @ 2PM or the evening showing @ 8PM. This would give everyone time to get to San Francisco and have some time to play around on the Wharf and what not, and maybe even drop the "crazy" ones off at Alcatraz :)

Prices are as follows:

Orchestra/Loge $99
Mezzanine $99
Balcony $50
Side Balcony $40

+ 10.50 convenience charge

Loge (1st 3 rows of 1st balcony)
Mezzanine (1st Balcony level behind Loge)
Balcony (2nd balcony level)

If we have enough people that would like to go we may be able to get a group discount.

Here are some dates to consider:

9/12/09
9/19/09
9/26/09

If you are interested in coming please leave comments on this post as to what dates would work best for you. We will try to accommodate the date with the most requests, but hey in the end it's me and Petra that will decide - hee hee. We will need to know numbers so that we can plan for tickets and for hotel rooms. Petra is going to try to accommodate all that want to go at her favorite place of employment in the Bay area.

If we are close enough in numbers to get a group rate we may open it up to friends, but lets just start with family members first as we are trying to promote family bonding moments. Geez, I know you have to spend time with family, that is why we add the crazy aunts, sarcastic cousins, and those out of control siblings. Although, if others come there is a disclaimer as we are not responsible for what happens to them. They will be subjected to the same harassment as everyone else, sorry.

We hope that as many that can will join us for some fun cousin, aunt, grandma, crazy people time. It's an entertaining show for sure and you won't regret seeing it! Please join us!

Disclaimer:

Yeah, I know it is kind a scary that Petra and I are trying to plan something. So if it blows up you can't really blame us.

News of Auburnights

2009-04-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Well as you must of heard by now, the big news from our family, Sara is getting married to Gary Gray. They will be sealed together on Friday June 12th in the Oakland Temple. On Saturday June 13th there will be a family breakfast for both families, later that evening a reception will be held at the Abel's property. On June 27th a open house will be held in Pleasant Grove, Utah (were Gary & his family live) we are very excited for them.
Sara & Gary had come to Auburn for thanksgiving back in Nov. (at the time I thought it was just another boy in tow) So that weekend I did not spend much time with Gary, we (Placer High) were involved in football playoffs, so I was busy coaching and preparing for the upcoming game. We later learned things were getting serious. So Colleen and I went to Utah to spend some time with Gary and meet his family, We were very impressed with both. Gary and I sat down for a chat. I called it a chat, Gary thought it was an interview, Sara calls it the Inquisition. How ever you want to call it, Gary answered all the questions correctly, and he asked and received permission to take our beloved daughter to the House of the Lord and be sealed for Time and all Eternity. I hope all of our family can gather in Zion (Auburn for those of you who did not know were Zion is) in June to celebrate this event.
Colleen and Ron are experiencing the empty nest syndrome for the first time. We miss our children so very much. Colleen is still working in the mortgage business and is serving in the relief society presidency with her friend Bonnie Abel. Ron still does his property management and coaches at the high school. Ron was released from the Bishopric and was called to be the High Priest Group Leader.
Brandon is living large in San Louis O. Doing the school thing, Throwing on the Track team and finding new adventures, check out his facebook and his sand surfing. We are very proud of his progress and the great man he is turning into. I (DAD) just wish I could hear from him more I miss hanging out with him.

All is well here in Auburn, we hope to see you all in June

News from JJ and Family

2009-04-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Our Family is still living in Antelope. We are in the Antelope 4th Ward in the Antelope Stake. Sarah has been called to be the secretary in Young Women's and JJ is a teacher in the Elders Quorum. Jake is now in CTR6, Eden is a Sunbeam and Noah is in the nursery. Jake loves his class, Eden wants to go back to nursery and Noah screams until we get out of sight, then he has a great time. Jake also enjoys kindergarten but is not very fond of the homework.

Our biggest news to share is that we are expecting a baby boy! We were convinced, with the help of Eden who desperately wants a sister, that we were expecting a girl, so imagine our shock, and Eden's dismay and denial, when we were told it is a boy. Jake and Noah feel triumphant now that it is confirmed another brother is on the way. Now we just have to agree on a name.

JJ has traveled much less over the last six months than he has previously. It has been nice to have him home more. However, now that we are used to having him around again, his travel itinerary is revving up again, and we don't expect to see much of him over the next couple of months. He is required to be home and accessible come the end of August/ beginning of September when the baby is due!

Even though we celebrate two birthdays in October, Halloween was definitely the highlight of the month. We had a firefighter, a princess and a lion. While Sarah went out with the kids and a friend and their kids, JJ helped pack up a moving truck for the same friends. It was a busy and fun night. We were also able to take the kids to the Halloween party for Grandma's ward and see friends we rarely see.

We, minus the kids, enjoyed a fun trip to Hawaii just before Thanksgiving thanks to JJ's heavy travel schedule and the accumulation of hotel points. We visited Oahu and Maui, and even with the occasional rain, enjoyed 70+ degree weather in November! We saw Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural Center. The best part was relaxing at the beach. It was fantastic!

Sarah's parents were nice enough to stay with the kids while we were in Hawaii. We were able to have Thanksgiving with them and Sarah's brother Dave and his family who came down from Washington to celebrate with us. Christmas was fun for the whole family, the kids love everything about Christmas. It was a little odd because it was just us and we usually have Sarah's brother James with us. Speaking of James, he got married a month ago. Sarah was able to go all alone to Southern California to be a part of the wedding. (I'd almost call it a vacation except for the fact that we had to cater the whole reception and make the flower arrangements and.... it was a BUSY vacation!)

We have enjoyed seeing family as they have come to visit with Grandma. Keep coming! We hope you have enjoyed the start of Conference weekend and acknowledge the blessing of the Gospel and family in your lives. We are blessed to be part of this family and are grateful for each of you. We love you!

JJ, Sarah, Jake, Eden, Noah and Baby Boy Roskelley

Uncle Jerry's Funeral

2009-03-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

The Roseville Fire Department honored Uncle Jerry with a beautiful American flag - similar to the way the Navy did for Dad last year. The mournful Taps was played by a fireman across the parking lot.

The Roseville Police and Fire Departments escorted the family (and it was a big line of cars - because we have a BIG family) to the cemetery. There was a fire truck with the lights on at the front and the back of the line of cars and the police stopped all traffic while we traveled - so happy that the cemetery was not that far from the church.

Dad's gravestone has finally been placed on his grave. It looks like the family gathering on Memorial Day will begin here starting this May. Can you just imagine how Dad and Uncle Jerry will enjoy seeing everyone gather here?

IN MEMORY.....

2009-03-22T19:25:00.001-07:00

I was on my way to the grocery store Saturday night, Yeah it was Saturday night and you can see most of our ward at BelAir, as I was driving past the the fire station I noticed the flag at half mast. I thought hmmmm I didn't hear that any one important in town had died??? Then I looked down, and saw this sign, it really hit me! WOW the whole town is mourning with us. OK, I have to admit, I was told the flag would be at half mast, but I had forgotten!

I thought it was just our Fire Station because Uncle Jerry had retired from that Station, but Aunt Faye said it was all the Fire Stations in the city of Roseville. There are a LOT of Fire Stations in Roseville. We drove to 3 of them just to make sure and they were all lowered.

Everywhere I go, everyone knows he is gone. Uncle Jerry had worked in the Stake for so many years, the Stake Presidency called all the wards to let them know.

I got out at the Fire Station and took the video, I am sure the firemen were thinking I was a bit crazy.

Jeff and I went to see Uncle Jerry last week, he was able to talk to us and we were able to let him know we loved him. We went back a couple of days later and he was unconscious. He was never awake again from that day froward. I am glad we listened to that small voice that sent us over to visit last week. Mom and I took soup and cookies over, we remember how nice it was to have food on hand that could be warmed up, or a cookie to hand to a child.

We went with Mom to her Ward today and saw all the cousins except David and his Amy (I heard David had a wardrobe malfunction) It is sad but fun to see them all!

The Funeral is Wednesday at 10:00 am, I so wish everyone in my family could be there. It is hard to lose the last of our Uncles!!

Marriage Retreat SNOW!!!

2009-02-10T19:01:00.000-08:00

Linda, Grant, Jeff and I went to a Marriage Retreat up at Aspen Grove. For those of you who are like me and are going, "where is that??" it is above Sundance Ski Resort. In fact, as you are driving up to Aspen Grove, you can see the skiers going down the mountain. We Californians loved the big puffy snow while we sat snug in big cushy chairs in the lodge, laughing at Brad Wilcox the speaker for the event. When you see one of us, ask us about the "step away from the car" joke. We laughed until we were hurting.

This was taken just outside our rooms in the lodge. I wanted to get the snow on the trees, and the snow in the air, it just looks white in the picture, it was big puffy flakes coming down.

Linda and I got adventurous and went snow shoeing the second day. Now that was an event!! Staying up right was a full time job for us both. The guys took a nap while we were out being crazy.

If you look closely you can see how wet Linda's knees are and what you can't see is my numb bum. Linda fell face first into the snow, I went straight back, Oh well we had fun!!

Can you tell who is from Utah and who is from California?? Jeff and I dressed in so many layers!! Linda and Grant kept saying "oh, this is much warmer than it has been!"

It was so beautiful, and a fun relaxing weekend!!

JJ "IS" the Christmas present

2009-01-24T17:24:00.001-08:00

Mom had JJ's name for Christmas, she knew just what she wanted to get him, but it required a truck so she asked Ron to help get it to Christmas Eve. Ron assured her he would have it there and not to worry about the wrapping. When it came time to open the family presents Ron told JJ come into the family room while Brandon brings in the present. We were a little concerned when brandon brought in a VERY large unwrapped box. In a few minutes we understood. Ron didn't wrap the box he wrapped JJ.

Surprise its a book shelf!! Leave it to Ron to think outside of the "box"

SISTER's

2009-01-13T18:10:00.001-08:00

Here is my apron!! I love it!! SISTER's gotta love 'em!!

Christmas Apron - Dressing like my Sisters

2008-12-26T20:14:00.000-08:00

Here is my new Christmas apron - given to me by Cookie, I wore it here at the Family dinner and then at Christmas Eve. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas - I love that we gathered together and enjoyed the traditions of this time of year.

New Addresses

2008-12-03T13:17:00.000-08:00

It's been two years since we updated the family addresses. Or at least that's the last time I saw it updated. Either we should do a whole new one or everyone that has moved since then should email me their address.

2008-11-02T10:32:00.001-08:00

The past six months have gone by way too quickly. The biggest change in our family is we had a new addition! A little Chihuahua we call Ozzy. He is a rescue dog from Louisiana and is 1 1/2 years old. We don't really know what his past was, just that he was abandoned at an animal shelter by an owner who didn't want him anymore. We can't imagine anyone not wanting Ozzy- he's only 5lbs! But we're glad he gets to live with us now.

The other big news of ours is that Richard graduated from his program! He is now Master Richard (and would like to be addressed as that). He was getting an MA in Higher Education Administration from Boston University. He is such a hard worker, and completed his degree while working full-time at Boston University as the "Affirmative Action Officer" for faculty. At his job he helps to make sure the hiring process is fair and equal for everyone. Kristal finished classes in her program, and is currently working on finishing up her thesis film before she is officially done.

This summer we did some camping and enjoyed our time in New England. We had the opportunity to venture out to Utah for July 4th and as always love the time we spend there. We are looking forward to the Fall this year, but as usual, not really to the winter!

Love,

Richard and Kristal.

The travel log.

2008-10-06T15:27:00.000-07:00

Hello,

I just want to start by saying how much I loved Conference!!! It was so excited when they announced the new temples. Josh was so happy they are building one where he served his mission(he was in the Independence Missouri Miss.) And we are definitely going to go when the temple is dedicated. I told him we should also make a goal to be in Rome(after visiting several other beautiful cities in Europe) when they dedicate that temple.

As for my family so much has been happening big changes and little ones. And a lot of good times to be had by all.

I'll start with Will. He turned 3 years old on June 29. He is still little but he makes up for it with a lot of energy and personality. He runs constantly and screams often. But he is finally starting to speak over the last 6 to 9 months he's Finally started to say words and talk in sentences. He loves Sunday's Nursery is his favorite thing I think ever. When we get to church he always gets upset when we pass the nursery room to go to Sac. Mtg first. He loves the leaders and the other babies. Which is wonderful, it's nice to see him grow and become more social. He brings so much joy to our family I don't know what I would do without him. Will had kind of a tough spring, as I am sure you all know. And I am so glad the string of bad luck (the sickness, hydrasil, hernia, and falling out of stuff) is behind him and me. Knock on wood. I truly believe in the power of prayer after his last accident I just sat with him praying that he would be ok for one and the other I asked for God protection. I hoped that Will would never have anymore mishaps, major illnesses or medical conditions but just in case I begged my Heavenly Father to protect him so that whatever happened to him he would bounce back.

Jacob turned 6 August 16 and started school on the 18th. Sending him to Kindergarten was so hard. It's hard to get over the fact that he's not my baby anymore. but he is doing well in his class and is learning to write really well. He's making friends and loving play time. I am so happy he doing well and am also very proud of him. Jacob is truly my biggest helper at home. He's always ready to help his mom. Also he is the best big brother in the world he loves Will and is the best and entertaining him when I need to get something done. He's very loving and protective of his family. Both Jacob and Will are getting over cold right now but thankfully they were not serious. they barely slowed either one of them down. Jacob also just did his Primary Program. He loves going to church and getting to go to his class and have singing time I am really glad he loves it.

Josh just finished his summer at the raceway. Which is so nice I am finally going to get him back Friday nights. He's going to school and working and just trying to get through it. We've been on several fun trips over the last few months back in may we went to Kansas City to see the places he served on his mission and the Church sites. We went to Independence, Adam-ondi-Ahman. Adam-ondi-Aham was so beautiful and peaceful. the whole area is so green. We got to Adam ondi Ahman kind of later in the evening and spent hours walking around we went to Spring hill where they savior with return. It was humbling to be in such a sacred place.

Also while we were there we saw Wicked. That was a highlight!!! We've listen to the show so many times it was amazing seeing it for the first time. I cried I was so happy. And the show itself was beautiful.

We also went to this beautiful memorial in Kansas City that was built to honor those who died in WWI it was a wonderful place to see we spent most of the morning there. On the large tower that it reads "In honor of those who Served in the world war, in defence of liberty and our country'. you can actually go up to the top of the Liberty tower. there's a great view of the city. Here's a fun fact, Kansas city has the more fountains then any other city in the world except Rome. They had there amazing sculptures outside that were so beautiful.

Then in August Josh took me for my birthday to the East coast we flew into Washington DC and saw the sites there. but the main event was the Six Flags in New Jersey where they have the fastest, tallest roller coaster in the world(for the moment). That trip was a blast we had so much fun. I really love those thrill Parks.

Of course Mom told you all about our girls trip to Hershey ect. That was wonderful but I missed my Boys.

Other then the traveling we've been doing our lives have been pretty ordinary. We just go from day to day getting all our work done and trying to find time to do everything we like to do, I really appreciate Pres. Monsons talk about enjoying the here and now. It reminded me of a quote by Dr. Seuss he says, "Don't cry because it's over, Smile because it happened." I am trying to live in every moment to enjoy my children while they are young be entertained instead of annoyed by there antics.

I hope all my family well and happy. I love you all

Alexis

Rowley Family Update - Fall 2008

2008-10-05T12:42:00.000-07:00

Hello Family,

What a great General Conference we just had. I want to let you each know how grateful I am for you. I heard that message from our prophet and I thought of each of you and how you have blessed my life.

We have had a busy 6 months. We have enjoyed visits from others and visiting others.
In May we enjoyed helping other family members working in Mom's back yard. JJ has worked so hard and it is really starting to look great. Grant and I enjoyed gathering with the other family members in the traditional Memorial Day activities. I am so glad that we can remember our grandparents, who are such an important part of our eternal lives. It was our first time to include Dad's grave. I hope we will remember to tell the stories and keep all these people alive in our memory.

We have had a busy Spring/Summer. We were happy to have Ron's family here when Sara graduated. We heard that Randy and Gayle were here also to support Rachel, who also graduated. It is amazing to see how quickly time passes - weren't they just coming here as Freshman? Here they are finishing up their education as teachers.

In June we had a nice visit from Richard and Kristal - and their dog Ozzy. We were able to get some updated family pictures so I was happy about that also. They were here through the 4th of July - we were happy to have JJ, Sarah and their children to come over for 4th of July. Lexi was here also with her boys. It is fun to have the family together. Annaleesa's friend, Susette and her husband Mark came over also.

We were sad to hear about Jeff's mother dying. Carolyn and Jeff came to stay with us for a short time while Jeff's family was burying his mother.

After they left our nephew, Mark and his wife Brenda came to stay for a while. They are in dancing workshops - they have a dance studio in Texas so they were just getting some training.

Grant had a short break from the BYU ward but in mid July they started up again. He has another Freshman Ward and each year they have some great students.

We were happy to have Hokansons come for a visit in July also. We did a BYU Treasure Hunt - Crystal is coming next year for EFY so we wanted to get her acquainted with the campus before she came. Crystal had an incredible opportunity to go to Europe this year. We were so happy she shared her pictures and some stories about what she did while she was there.

Just after Hokansons left Annaleesa was hit from behind on the freeway on her way home from work. Her car was totaled and she had some neck pain (whiplash) which she has been having treated by a physical therapist. She has a Toyota Corolla now and has just purchased a ski rack for the top in anticipation of the new snow boarding season.

We were happy to have Randi Marie and Efrain and their children over for dinner while they were here visiting Utah. They have such a cute family and we enjoyed having them here even for a short time.

September 1st was Annaleesa's 30th birthday. Lexi and I along with some good friends, Susette and Lauri took her to PF Chang's for lunch. That was fun but then on Monday Susette and Lauri took her to some houses of other friends and she had quite the make over. At one house she had make up applied to her face. At another house - new hair do - then on to another house for painted toe nails and another for fingernail polish. She look like quite the glamour girl. As soon as they left she was in the shower to get it all off. I did get a picture - which I will share...

Annaleesa also made the wedding cake for her friend, Susette's daughter's wedding reception. I will share a picture of that also. She stressed about it but I thought she did a great job.

We were so happy to be able to go to Hans and Shelli's wedding. It was so nice to be there to support them and be with the family. Everything turned out so nicely. I have a couple of pictures I will share of what we saw.

Then mid September I had the privilege and going with my daughters to Pennsylvania. This was kind of an extension of Annaleesa's birthday. We flew to Washington DC and then drove to Philadephia and saw the historical sites of our country there. Kudos to Alexis for driving out of Philadelphia during rush hour traffic - she is a trooper. The next day we went to Hershey, Pennsylvania. On the way we saw some of the Amish country. The town of Hershey is an inspiring story and place. I so enjoyed being there and especially with Annaleesa and Alexis. It was a trip I will remember the rest of my life.

Our Family dinner has changed so much since Rachel and Josh and Thad and Malinda have left for their schooling. We miss them but we carry on.

Well, and here we are now in the Fall/Autumn - such a wonderful time of year. We have had an especially warm Fall but this Conference Week end it has been rainy and cooler - so cozy for watching Conference.

We send our love to all of you. I hope you have a wonderful time this Fall and into the holiday season. Take care.

Love,

Grant and Linda

Seamons Family

2008-10-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

We have had a very interesting year!! I just told someone, I ALWAYS have tissue in my purse, but due to all the tears we have shed this year, (for the good and sad tears) I have no tissue left. After Dad died we saw Jeff's Mom slowly slip away until she died in July. Once again we gathered together and mourned the passing of a wonderful women, Mother, Grandmother, friend. Grandma Seamons was such a gracious person, I always told her I wanted to take gracious lessons from her, she would laugh and tell me I needed to go down South to learn how to be like her. Jeff and I got to go to Utah to be a part of her buriel.

Then we moved on to happier times and Hans and Shelli's wedding. We got to have all our kids there and enjoy being together.

This picture is hard to see but there are all my boys, they all looked so nice that day, they went golfing in the morning and back to the house to shower change and on to the wedding. And of course my beautiful grandchildren, CJ and Jenni looked like they could be the wedding couple, Jenni did a geat job of being the flower girl.
Isaac is making sure Isiah is saying cheese!! They had so much fun, during the wedding Isaac's tie fell off. (Gee Gee had bought them the ties for their birthday!! The easy clip on ones) As I was listening I heard "Grandma, my tie fell off!" I told him OK I'll put it on in a minute! A couple of minutes later, "Grandma it's been a minute!" They are so much fun to be around. Yesterday we were going shopping and it was Isiah's turn to go in Grandma's car (instead of going with Mom and Dad) I forgot which side the car seat was on and had to sent Isiah around to the right side of the car, he turns to me and says "Grandma, we don't have time for this!!" ( this is much more fun to hear said with a Boston accent the boys have, just like their Mom did at that age)

We feel so blessed to have our family that comes to our aid in all things good and bad. We were with Jeff's family for the funeral and then went to visit Linda and Grant, they took us out and about and made sure we had fun! We had had a sober few days but it was fun to go and visit with everyone and lighten up.

Gayle, Linda, Grant, Annaleesa, Alexis and of course Will all came from out of town to help with the wedding. We didn't do much but we really enjoyed everyone and got to visit with each other. Thanks guys!! Now we have Samantha living with Grandma, it is so fun to have her do all our family stuff with us! Samantha has discovered our crazy free movie nights. We do crazy things to enjoy our family time! I feel such gratitude that I have a family that I know comes to my aid when they are needed, it is such a comfort to feel your love for all the good and bad times!!

Hans and Shelli's Wedding

2008-09-07T13:27:00.001-07:00

Hans and Shelli got married yesterday. It was very beautiful and they are off to Hawaii. It was such a fun day to see all our family and enjoy each other.

Hans and Shelli Wedding

2008-07-13T17:22:00.001-07:00

Just to let everyone know Hans and Shelli will be getting married on Sept. 6, 2008. We are so excited, we love Shelli and can't wait to have her a permanet part of our family. We will be sending out invitations soon, I need a few addresses, I have all my siblings except Cindy's new address. I have all of Linda's kids and I think I have the right address for Wally and Linzi. I am not sure about Rachel and Josh??? Help? I have Jason's address.
Ron, I am sending everything to you and can you pass it on to Sara and Brandon? I know they will both be back into a new school year. Cookie and Todd the same with you, can you forward the info to Samantha? JJ and Sarah, please tell Jake, Edan and Noah we really want them there.
We have loved watching these two grow together it is a joy to be around them!! I think they have a picture I can post soon!! (Denise was taking pictures of them last week, I am trying to pry one out of her!!)

Linda and Grant

2008-07-05T20:42:00.000-07:00

Allie took this picture of Aunt Linda and Uncle Grant on Memorial day. I think is is really cute!!

Memorial Day 2008

2008-06-15T10:00:00.001-07:00

Grant and I really enjoyed the Family Work Day at Mom's on Memorial Day Week end. JJ had the projects ready for all of us and it was fun to work with the family and get some things accomplished. The back yard is soon to be a lovely place to gather and just enjoy. We also enjoyed being with the extended family to honor our grandparents. It was fun to hear everyone's memories of them. I especially enjoyed hearing JJ's memory of when he was visiting Grandma and Grandpa Noakes and they sat him on the couch and then danced together for him in their dining room.

Family work day at Grandma's

2008-05-25T17:25:00.001-07:00

We had another fun day in Grandma's yard. The sidewalk is finally done. You can walk from the back gate all the way to the shed and never get your feet muddy. JJ got the big cemet mixer and all the guys lined up with the wheel barrels to haul it to the back yard. Hans, Efrain, and Brandon were first in line. With Uncle Grant, Uncle Ron,Uncle Jeff and JJ's friend Kevin right behind. The girls worked on getting a border all the way around the yard. We dug ditches and moved rocks and got all the back yard ready for the new lawn to come.

The limited space was interesting as they tried to make sure the cement went where they wanted it to.

Hans got stuck trying to smooth things out. He had to have a little help to get out, someone wanted to leave him there. (he will remain nameless!!)

The kids got to put their names in the cement so they will always remember that fun day. Some of the BIG kids wanted to put there names in the cemet also.

The kids didn't think it was the best fun! They were not allowed to move from the porch after Eden walked in the wet cement.

Wally, Lindsey, Sadie

2008-04-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

Dudes,

Christmas

We spent Christmas with the fam in Colorado. New Grandparents, new Aunt and Uncle, and Giddy parents = more presents than a kid could ask for. Sadie got a tricycle and absolutely loved it. She loved it so much that every present had to be opened while sitting on the bike. We also got a Nintendo Wii which is one of the coolest forms of entertainment for the whole family. The first night playing, Lindsey and I stayed up till 2 in the morning and had sore arms the next morning.
We took a visit to the Denver Aquarium which was totally awesome. We also went to the children’s museum. Coolest place on Earth for a kid. I was running from….. I mean Sadie was running from one thing to the next.

Quick Vacation

We traveled over 2600 miles starting in Utah. We traveled and stayed in Las Vegas, Oceanside California, Disneyland, Universal Studios, the beach, San Francisco, Roseville, and then back home. Disneyland was just awesome. Sadie knew all the characters and loved every ride. Her favorite ride is the Buzz Lightyear ride where you get to shoot aliens with your laser (4 times in a row). We had a blast. She wasn’t even the slightest concerned on rides like the Pirates of the Caribbean or the Haunted Mansion. Anytime we see someone wearing a big hat she points and says ‘Pirate!’ We went with our friends the Littlefields. They have a little boy named Ty who is Sadie’s best friend. We stayed in a suite with a full living room, kitchen, and two big bedrooms.

Universal Studios is way awesome too. They have a new attraction for the kids – a jungle gym room full of millions of foam balls and air cannons to shoot balls around. It’s supposed to be for kids but I threw myself on the ground and refused to walk when it was time to leave. We had lunch at the beach and played in the water a bit. Sadie would laugh so hard when a wave would come and knock her over. She eventually had purple lips and shaky knees but didn’t want to leave the waves.

Then on up to a little get together to see the family in Roseville. We almost couldn't make it but glad we did. We had a great time seeing everyone. The funeral was put together very well.

2^nd Birthday party

We had a party at the house for Sadie’s second birthday. Only 24 of her friends showed up. It was crazy. We had cake and a party at the house and then went to Kangaroo Zoo which is a place full of bounce houses and air castles. It was totally awesome. I think the older people had even more fun jumping around than the kids. We have a hard time teaching her that she is two. How old are you Sadie? “am one” Now you are two. “No am one.”

The other day Sadie brought us her rubber ducky from the bathtub and was saying “IKEA”. We bought it from Ikea and she recognized the tiny label on the bottom and was pointing to it. Either she can read or we go their way too much. At Easter she learned from her friends that if you shake the egg and it doesn’t rattle (hard boiled) then it doesn’t have any candy so you just put it back. That’s what Easter is all about.

Lindsey

The house is looking more and more stylish every month. Lindsey loves decorating the house. We recently painted some walls and put up some more pictures. She saved for several months and we have now have a new dining table and table settings.
She also loves thinking of cool ways to get her Sunbeam class to have memorable classes.
Lindsey has also been a good exercise routine at the gym in our clubhouse. She does pilates and runs on the treadmill. I like to support her by sleeping in a little.
Lindsey has a friend that owns a business called "Cents of Style". They sell stylish clothes and accessories for really good prices. Lindsey got invited to be a model (I call her a poser) for the website and catalog in exchange for some free clothes. She had a great time and our closet is very cramped now.

Wally

I have been snowboarding a lot these last few years and I absolutely love it. The last day of the snowboarding season ended on a Saturday and the golf season started the next Monday. Perfect timing. I took advantage of both days. In September I joined a friend and helped develop a side business under the name ‘New Finish Technology’. We found a really unique way to repair paint damage on cars. We have setup many of the dealerships in town and now have three employees servicing these accounts. It has been very profitable and is growing like crazy. I am counting down the days until Ultimate Frisbee season starts. In the mean time we are signing up for a coed softball team. As a dad I am very proud of my daughter because when I am leaving for work she hugs my leg and asks to go skateboarding or to play basketball. That just brings a tear to my eye.

We are incredibly happy and couldn’t ask for a better time of life. We are now on the lookout for any possible adoptions. Let us know if know anyone who is adopting out their kids cause it turns out they don’t go on sale anywhere.

Wally, Lindsey, Sadie

PS: I wondered why the Frisbee was getting bigger….. and then it hit me.

Family News from the Rowleys

2008-04-14T06:40:00.000-07:00

Hello Family,

We have such a great family! Grant just got home from helping at Mom's Backyard Project. He so enjoyed working with all the great family members who came and worked so hard. He felt good about how much was accomplished. He wants to return sometime in May and do it again and maybe the backyard can be finished up. Thanks for everyone that came out to work so hard.

We had a quiet Thanksgiving this year. Just the traditional food fare and activities. Grant and I celebrated our 36th anniversary. Christmas was so fun - right after Richard and Kristal came for a visit also. Jakie and Will make Christmas just magical. I love that they are so excited and happy with all the beauties of Christmas.

I had a very hard time facing my birthday this year. Grant remedied my concerns by arranging some flights with Lexi to go to Chicago. He took me to see Wicked there. What a great experience. We had such fun with my first glimpse of the "Windy City". We were so fortunate that even being there in January - the weather was abnormally quite warm for that time of year. We were on foot and it was cold but not unbearable so. After leaving Chicago we flew to Omaha, Nebraska where we were picked up by a driver that Grant had met, who then drove us to a remote area of Iowa, where the truck had been repaired when Grant had an accident a month previously. We picked up the truck and drove back to Utah. It was a nice time to spend together and we came home refreshed and truly entertained. We both so enjoyed Wicked and hope you can see if it comes near you.

Also, in January, Kristal came back to visit. Her film, The Other, was shown at the LDS Film Festival right here in Orem at the Scera Theater. She was one of the few women presenting their films in the festival. We are proud of Kristal and her efforts in this competitive field. Annaleesa went with her to the viewings and they saw many interesting films.

February we were so concerned when we heard about Dad's failing health and Mom having to be caring for him 24 hours continually. We were so happy to hear that Cookie and Cindy came to help. I decided to come the next week end. I was very blessed to work with Carolyn, Ron and JJ as we took turns taking care of Dad and helping Mom the best we could. I felt the blessing of a family sealed together as we gathered together and knelt in prayer around Dad's bed. It was also a blessing to gather together to honor Dad at the funeral. I am grateful for a great family!

I got the flu in March - it really makes you grateful for your health when you can get past that. We enjoyed Easter with little Jake and Will as well as Gabby with Chad and Charla joining us. We always enjoy sharing our testimonies of the resurrection and our relationship with the Savior.

We so enjoyed Conference - the best week end ever! And now we just enjoyed the monthly Family Dinner - we love those kids and enjoy our time with them.

Well, we send our love to all of you. Love, The Rowleys

Sara, Me, Myself, and I:)

2008-04-08T20:42:00.000-07:00

First I would like to say that this family blog is a wonderful idea. I think it is so wonderful that I have started my own blog (www.sararoskelley.blogspot.com). You can come visit me there anytime and hopefully there will be new and exciting things to read about!!

OK newsletter time. Each time I sit down to write my portion of the newsletter it is as if I draw a blank to what has been going on for the last 6 months. I decided to ask an outside source for help and so I asked, "Kyle, what have I been doing for the last 6 months?" He replied "Shoot, What haven't you been doing for the last 6 months?" So there it is... that about sums it up. It seems as if it has only been 3 months the way time has been flying. All I know is one minute I am happily attending school, playing softball, and spending time with my friends and then out of nowhere I am trying to juggle going to school, student teaching, getting a job, playing softball, keeping up with friends and relationships. CRAZY!! Well it is starting to calm down a bit now and so I am able to breathe a little more easily.

It was a wonderful feeling to turn in my last big project for UVSC and know that all I have left to do is graduate!! Student teaching has ended but teaching has not. I spent my time student teaching in a first grade classroom and I came to love all of my students. As it was nearing the end and I was becoming so sad that I had to leave them, So I decided not too:). Well I was actually offered a long-term sub position for another first grade class in the same school and so that is where i spend most of my waking hours. I love my new class and I am happy to know I didn't go to school for nothing. Because of this new job softball has shifted from the forefront of my life to somewhere near the back. Although I am still on scholarship and finishing out my senior year on the team I am really only able to make it to home games. There are times where the team will leave on a Thursday to fly somewhere for a weekend tournament and I will have to fly separately on Friday night and then fly back after the weekend. It has been more then hectic but great all the same. Softball will end in the beginning of May and I will be an accomplished student-athlete who has finished out her whole career, woowee!!

As for the future, I am hoping to land a job here in Orem at the same school I am working at now. I really love it there. I have filled out applications but I haven't done much more then that yet so we will see. I no longer have a plan for my life and it is stressing me out. Before now I have always been going somewhere or headed in a certain direction. Now i am open to do anything I wish. What will I do next...

Josh & Rach- Fam Letter

2008-04-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Fam-unit,

So our family is officially in “the-now” with our blog, I’m so proud. Life has been busy and a little crazy since October. The holidays were great. Thanksgiving was spent in Cali with Josh’s fam and Christmas was in CO. Christmas was a blast with the sweet Sadie. She was so excited for her new bike she had to open every single present while sitting on it. We also got spoiled by my parents and got an Ipod and PSP (a hand-held gaming system my mom is addicted to). In January I started student teaching in a fourth grade classroom for three months. It was the most stressful and intense three months of all of my schooling, but was enjoyable to see the cute things the kids did and said. One time Mrs. Green forgot her lunch so her sweet husband brought it to school for her. He came in to the classroom to give it to me and so I stopped and went to get my lunch and Josh was off on his way. After he left a little girl said “oooo…Mrs. Green was that your HUSBAND?!?!” and I said yep, it sure was. Another boy proceeded to make a funny face and said “that was embarrassing”. I couldn’t help but laugh at their cute little 9-year-old minds. Josh was so good to me as each day I came home from school and dropped on the couch ready for a nap and Josh was there to get a blanket for me and cook dinner. What a great husband…. J So the three months went by in a blur and now I am back to restful sleep and sanity. Joshua is still working full time and is finishing up his last undergraduate class, nutrition. I have been bombarded with nutritional facts and we now have skim milk and low fat sour cream in our fridge, both things which I have never purchased before. We are also now both counting down the days until we graduate, 18 to be exact. We will both graduate on the same day, woohoo! Besides graduation on our minds, we are also getting ready to decide where we want to go to law school in August. Joshua has gotten into a couple of schools so far including Creighton, Gonzaga and Tulsa. We are still waiting for about 6 acceptance letters, so we aren’t sure what our future is yet. Life is good though, we are enjoying the spring weather, besides the random days it decides to snow. Other than that we can’t wait for camping and baseball games this summer. We love you all and hope to see you soon!

The Andersons

2008-04-07T00:13:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,
I love this new blog. Great way to keep in touch. We always enjoy conference weekend so much. Todd's home and we get to reconnect and watch it together. I think Elder Ballard is my new favorite.
Samantha is back at BYUI for her second year. She is loving her ward this year a lot better than last years. Last year they couldn't get their FHE brothers to even come on Monday nights. This year they hang out with their FHE brothers all the time. The ward has lots of fun activities and everyone participates. They had a 70's party which is right up Samantha's ally so it was no surprise when their apartment won 1st place in the costume contest.

Here she is with her roommates Carmen and Katie all ready for the 70's party.

Here she is with her roommate Katie. Katie is from Walla Walla and was her roommate last year too. She is very sweet and is very good to Samantha.
Garrett is a senior this year and looking forward to Graduation in a couple of months. He has kept himself busy this year. He has joined every club that might even think about going on a trip. He is on the Knowledge Bowl team and they compete against other schools answering questions to see how knowledgeable you are. He is the Vice President of the Youth in Government club. He will be making his annual trip to Olympia to present their bills and mock run the state government basically. He has joined the school newspaper as a staff writer. He is enjoying taking advanced photography and AP Psychology. I'm sure he'll have our family all figured out soon. He recently returned from a spring break trip with some of his friends to the man cabin for a mancation. I am just glad they are home safe with only minor injuries and the cabin and Mt Hood are still in one piece. I can sleep again. He was accepted to BYUI for the Summer/Fall track. This puts him and Samantha on different tracks which means they will not live together again except for breaks between semesters. If all goes as planned he will start school this fall and leave for his mission next summer. This is all happening way too fast for me.

Here is one of his senior portraits.

And here he is going to Homecoming with his best girl Julia.

Bridget turned 16 in October and is loving dating and driving. She is on the track team and runs the 800 and the mile. She was excited to go to her first big dance, Sadie Hawkins, with a date and is looking forward to prom. She is going to EFY in Rexburg this year and then she will get to spend the next week with her sister living the life of a college coed. She became very interested in football in the fall, spent her winter being a timer for the swim team and is now a big fan of the high school varsity baseball team. Hmmm I wonder why?

Does it have something to do with this young man? Here she is with Landin at the Sadie Hawkins dance.

Dallin is still the paper boy and starting to enjoy the fruits of his labors (mostly video games and Nerf guns.) He is working his way to his eagle scout ranking and is still in the band at school. He is looking forward to golf weather right around the corner.

Lydia is still our sweetheart. She loves to help everyone and will sit and draw and color for hours. Another of her favorite activities is doing puzzles. She loved Easter and all the fun that came with it.

Here they are on Easter. Or at least all who would get in the picture.

All Elijah wanted for Easter was a tie. He loved it so much he wanted to wear it everyday after even just with tee shirts. He has changed super heroes recently. He found a piece of fabric hanging around. He ties it around him for a cape and jumps off of anything and everything with his arms stretched out in front of him yelling, "I am Spiderman Hero, I'm here to save the day!" . So if you need your day saved you know who to call.

Todd and I got to go to Hawaii last month with Randy and Gayle and Cindy.

We went to Kauai and had a great time. Here we are taking surfing lessons from an old guy named Sol. Yes I was the best. I'm not afraid to brag. Just because Randy can't see without his glasses and my surf board "accidentally" hit him in the head and he almost drowned means nothing. Don't believe anything he says.

We went to a Luau and went on an amazing

helicopter ride. We went to the beach and snorkeled and ate A LOT and mostly just hung out and laughed a lot. And the kids survived while we were gone. I was very worried about that.

This is the Luau.

Just more eating.

Christmas was fun. We got to have Cindy with us which everyone enjoys. Todd is still busy working on the shop in every spare minute. He will have been Bishop for 5 years at the end of this month. The Stake President says he doesn't have any plans for a release anytime soon but that could change so we just don't know.

It was so good to see everyone at the funeral. It is really too bad that you have to die to have that kind of a party and tribute. I couldn't believe how many people were there. I feel very blessed to have a family that we can count on. That we can laugh and cry with. I am so glad I had that time with him before he died and to feel the love and support of my family during such a difficult time.

Enjoy this beautiful season. We hope to be able to visit this summer.
Love ,
the Andersons

Seamons Family

2008-04-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

I feel like it has been a very long time since I wrote a family letter. I had sat down after Dad's funeral and wrote several thank you notes. Then for some reason it seemed like I should write one to Dad. So here is my Thank You To Dad.

Thanks Dad For:

Thanks for always being there -- you know for coming when I called "Mom" at night, knowing Mom was taking care of the current baby in our family.

Thanks for the Sunday morning tickle sessions when I was really small.

Thanks for pushing me to do things I was really scard to do -- sing in public, talk to large groups, etc.

Thanks for giving up one of your fun nights out bowling to take me to a Daddy-Daughter dates. This was the best because they wanted us to square dance and you were the only Dad that knew how, how fun it was to have "My Dad" teach everyone else.

Thanks for loving Jeff like I do... every time Jeff was in the hospital he would ask for my Dad, long before he would think of his own.

Thanks for loving my children with such unconditional love.

Thanks for all the parent-teacher conferences you took notes at, and for yelling at principals to defend the rights of your grandchildren, for all the games and concerts that were not really entertaning but you came and sat thru them anyway, and for buying all the stuff they were selling.

Thanks for being the babysitter when Mom still worked and I needed someone to pick the kids up from school, mostly for when I asked you to take care of a 1 month old and you said "YES! and your only complaint was she slept too much.

Thanks for laughing at my dumb jokes even in the last days of your life, when we were alone and I got bored and started telling you dumb jokes, I could hear you softly chuckle and squeeze my hand.

Thanks Dad for a forever family to love and be loved

Thanks

On to the family news!

Well we had a pretty good Christmas, there is nothing like a young child in the house for Christmas morning. CJ was here and in the morning he was so excited, not for the very large package Santa had left him but for the fact that the cookies and milk he left out the night before were gone!!

We love that Christmas day is now a lot of coming and going. The kids come and go as they meet with the in-laws and then come here.

We got Hans and Shelli on Christmas eve and then again later Christmas morning. (sharing with Denise and Ray is somthing I am learning to live with) We love Shelli and really love that we get to see her often. Much more than us is the kids love Shelli, Jenni especially, just yesterday, Randi, Efrain and family were here and Hans and Shelli came in. I heard from the back bedroom a screem, "Shelli' is here" and then the pounding of feet as Jenni came running down the hall.

Poor Hans used to be the first one they ran to and now it is Shelli, they still love him and he gets all the hugs and kisses. Maybe someday we will hear wedding bells?? (I know, I know stop pushing)

Katie bought a car, a brand new car!! She is so excited. She is looking for a new job as Borders has taken a turn in management and will have 100% turnover when Katie goes. So many changes in her life!

Petra and Ed are still with us but have found the house they want. It just isn't built yet. She will tell you in her letter.

Randi and Efrain are doing the same, meeting with mortgage lenders and trying to get a house, more from them!!

Ross is working at a large apt complex doing maintenance, but is mostly excited about joining either the Roseville police dept or the CHP. He has applied for both and the process is long and hard. Ross is excited to go thru it all.

Allison had her Senior pictures taken last week, this is sooooo weird to think she will be a Senior next year. She is on the go so much these days. She has a fun group of friends that keeps her busy, she doesn't have much time for babysitting but when she does she loves to hang out with her niece and nephews and really loves to go hang out with Jake, Edan and Noah. At family events you can see Edan in her arms a lot. I asked one day why she is always holding Edan, she told me."She will not be in trouble if I am holding her" This made me laugh, poor cute Edan, she is always having a hard time.

Jeff and I are pretty much the same. We are so grateful for Jeff's good health, last year about this time he was close to dying, so we are so happy he is so healthy and well. I will post pictures as soon as I gather all the camera's and download the pictures. I love to see all the pictures you guys have posted!!

Family Dinner Pictures

2008-04-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

hope you don't mind all the photos, but i thought you would like some of these... lots more where these came from!!

2008-04-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

Noah, Jake and Eden

coloring Easter eggs at Carloyn's

Eden, CJ and Jenni (R to L)

Jake, Eden and Noah after Easter egg hunt at Ron and Colleen's

Eden, JJ, Jake, and Noah

JJ, Sarah and Fam

2008-04-06T10:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring Everybody!

We are so happy to have the weather warm up. For the first 3 months of the year we have had one sickness after the other. We had great fun with the entire family here in late February. The kids love to play with all of their cousins. Even though the circumstances were dreary I had a great experience spending several days with several of my siblings.

I am still working for the state and traveling all over the state. I am still working on Mom's house, I think that it will never end. Sarah stays home and teaches the kids. Jake still attends pre-school and will attend kindergarden in the fall. Jake had a birthday in October and had games and goodies. Eden has her mother's kind heart and her father's onery temperment and the largest attitude in the western U.S.. Noah is very cute and learning to speak and yell at his brother and sister. Noah is 18 months old and gets to go to nursery so Sarah and I get to listen a little more at church. He really is the cuddliest of kids and very loving, yet is discovering how to assert himself. He is very vocal about his likes and dislikes.

Sarah was able to visit with one of her old friends when she traveled to So. Cal., we all took a trip to see Sarah's friend and family. We got home that trip just in time to celebrate Mom's birthday. For Christmas we had over Mom and Dad for dinner and then all of us had the Christmas play at our home this year.

The beginning of the year brought LOTS of travel for JJ. It's hard to be a weekend spouse and parent. We are glad to have the travel slow for a little bit. It's always fun when JJ comes home from work in the evenings; the kids hear his keys in the door and the greatest excitement rises from within them. they are running and shrieking and so excited to have Dad home at the end of the day.

We had a great Easter. Dinner hosted by Ron and Colleen with an easter egg hunt in the backyard. We love getting together with the family! Our kids love spending time with their cousins, and we are so blessed to part of a close family.

Lately Jake has been spending the afternoon keeping grandma company, Jake enjoys being spoiled and Mom enjoys the company.

Eden has decided she is pretty much done with naps now, much to her mom's dismay. Unfortunately, she is a lot like her dad about sleep. Not having a nap does not mean she will go down to bed at night any easier/quicker. She just goes and goes until you force her to slow down.
We are finally recovering from colds, flu and pneumonia that we have been experiencing for about two months now. It really takes it's toll.

We have enjoyed the opportunity to see and keep in touch with each of you over the last six months and are looking forward to seeing some of you next weekend to help out at Mom's/Grandma's.

Come visit anytime!
-JJ, Sarah, Jake, Eden and Noah

My last picture I promise

2008-04-04T00:42:00.000-07:00

This was the only decent pcture from my camera.
I thought it looked good in black and white.

Pictures from the Church

2008-04-03T00:02:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not I only put some of the pictures Bridget took on here. There were lots more. I hope you enjoy them.

More from Bridget's camera at the church

2008-04-02T23:54:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the church after the Funeral

2008-04-02T23:41:00.000-07:00

The Blog

2008-04-02T19:55:00.000-07:00

I was getting bored at work so I thought I would update the family blog, it might make up for my letter that I already know will probably be late.... I'll admit the header is a little girly, but maybe I'll surprise you with another one next week, you'll have to check back :) So everyone that is on the "authors" list should make a little post. Lets get this thing rollin! I can't wait to read the family letters this time. I love you all and miss you. Hope to see you soon. Perhaps this summer we will make a trip out to visit Cali. :)

Graveside

2008-03-31T23:19:00.000-07:00

more graveside

2008-03-31T23:11:00.000-07:00

more graveside from Bridget

2008-03-31T23:02:00.000-07:00

another from the graveside

2008-03-31T22:44:00.000-07:00

More pictures from the graveside

2008-03-31T22:40:00.000-07:00

Some pictures from Bridget at the graveside

2008-03-31T20:53:00.000-07:00

2008-03-09T19:35:00.001-07:00

More pictures of the dinner that Ed and Petra provided for our family gathering the night before Grandpa's funeral 2/21/ 2008.

Rachel and Jason - right picture
Lexi and Will with Rachel looking right - left picture.

Funeral Pictures

2008-03-09T19:30:00.001-07:00

JJ and Jake at the family gathering the night before Grandpa's funeral Feb 21, 2008.

2008-03-09T17:30:00.001-07:00

This is us at grandpa's funeral on 2-22-2008.

Testing, Testing...

2008-02-02T18:29:00.000-08:00

This is my first time to post on our new blog. We're still under construction so be patient as I work to complete in the next few days.