An Artist's View

2011-03-06T12:01:00.004-06:00

'twas a lovely, albeit too short, weekend.

Mike, Ella and Addie came to visit

and we celebrated Chrissy's 28th birthday.

good times

2011-02-19T17:23:00.006-06:00

Something wonderful happened a few days ago.

My blurb book was delivered!

Yes, the culmination of more than a year's work,
my entire reason for blogging,

finally arrived!

It is a beautiful and professional looking 12" x 12" coffee table book
with black linen cover and a glossy white dust jacket.
It even has a copyright!

I love it and I am so pleased with my accomplishment.

Thanks bloggers, especially Marci,for your inspiration.

If you are reading this, you are probably pictured in there

somewhere among the 384 pages....

So come and visit me and thumb through the pages

You can stay in the new guest room (pictured on page 319).

This is such a fantastic way to save our memories and photos

If you haven't done it, I highly recommend it!

2011-02-04T12:02:00.005-06:00

It snowed last night

Chloe and Rembrandt went out this morning to check it out

She took these photos . . . which I think are great

2011-02-03T14:47:00.003-06:00

Remember way back in July of 2009

when I started my blog?

of course you do. . . I am sure you think about it all the time.

Remember the purpose was to record my past and present,

then, bind it at the end of a year?

Well, it has been nearly a year and a half

and my book has finally been sent to the printer.

The editing process of transferring from blog to book took all day,

every day,

for 3 weeks!

I sent it to the printer yesterday,

and I don't know what to do with myself today.

I am so excited to see it!

2011-01-27T10:10:00.008-06:00

When my cute grand babies visited recently,

I set the table for Sunday dinner before I went to bed on Saturday.

Ella is a dog lover;

she got up early and found all of Chloe's stuffed doggies.

It was so cute to wake up to Ella's doggie teaparty

2011-01-22T13:56:00.010-06:00

What in the world have I been up to?

-Christmas in California

-Christmas Day in Disneyland - super fun!

It was misty and cold in the morning,
then the sun came out for a beautiful day.

-New Years Rockin' Eve Dance with The Freeman Bros Band

-Arrived home in San Antonio and got very sick for the next 2 weeks (I am still a little stuffy and scratchy throat). Seriously the one of the worst colds I have ever had.

-Wonderful weekend with Mike and Marci and grand-babies and Chrissy and Zach (we missed you, Brit and Ili) and lots of cooking and great food.

-Teaching Young Women lessons the past two Sundays - which, I make more of a production than it needs to be but the girls love it . . . so I have to live up to the precedent I have set....which is fun and I love it too. (was that a run on sentence?)

Mom is doing well in her new digs
She lives with my sister, Marsha, now.

the photos are poor quality because Chloe decided to take our new Canon pocket camera off the auto settings and try custom settings, that didn't work most of the time, but that's ok.

2010-12-12T12:50:00.006-06:00

Fresno's beautiful fall backdrop was a fun setting

for some family photos.

We were already dressed up, so why not?

Thank you, Chrissy!

for bringing your equipment and taking our photo.
(if you look close, you can see the remote in her hand

The family just didn't feel complete
without my dear sons and daughter in law
and my cute grandbabies,
but being with just my husband and 4 children was very healing.
I loved being confined together in a the car for the 24 hour drive (each way).
Steve and I grinned from ear to ear for 48 solid hours.

it was wonderful.

2010-12-10T06:00:00.006-06:00

Rusty and Rembrandt

The day we left for California to attend dad's funeral,

Rusty was unable to get up

and he would not eat.

I knew the signs....

it was exactly how Scooter acted the day we had to put him down,
11 years ago.

The timing was terrible.

We said our good-byes and Zach (Chrissy's hubby) took him to the vet,
who confirmed our fears....cancer.

Rusty was a sweetheart.

I miss him.

....and so does Rembrandt.

Ever since we arrived home from California,

we have showered all of our love on Rembrandt.

The attention we wish Rusty was here to get, is all directed at Rem.

Come to think of it,

maybe it is displaced love and attention for Tom, my dad, and Wyatt too.

Anyway, it makes us feel good to do it.

He gets extra petting and treats, baths, grooming, and he sleeps inside.

. . . I don't even like indoor pets . . .

dear me

2010-12-08T06:00:00.002-06:00

The day after Thanksgiving,

we visited the monument to the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building.

******

At 9:01 life was normal

At 9:03, it was forever changed

168 people died

the small chairs represent children

Among the survivors is MSG William H. Bonebreak,

Brittany & Ili's former Bishop

Ella left a chalk heart next to the children's memorial wall

Afterward, we had lunch at a Mexican restaurant

then, we hugged the babies good-bye.

2010-12-06T06:00:00.002-06:00

Mike does this trick.

It involves a toothpick, spoon, and fork

.....and defying logic and gravity.

Once again, we were treated to his trick at Thanksgiving

******

Brittany and Ili hosted our fun visit

in Oklahoma City

After a delicious dinner ....

Ili built a bonfire for a great time in the fall air

mmmmmm smores!

2010-12-04T22:33:00.005-06:00

August 2009

I just returned from my father's funeral.

It is just too hard to write about.

So I refer to THIS

I am doing ok.

There are so many angles to this thing, it is hard to come to terms with it all.

Seeing my dear mother without her companion is the hardest;
she is living with my sister now.

Hearing dad's voice on his voice-mail is strange.

I have some of mom and dad's furniture in my house,
but it doesn't seem to belong.

Seeing dad in his casket was a true face to face with mortality.
He was handsome and peaceful
and looked like he would just wake up and speak to me.

So I am taking it slow and letting the feelings come naturally.

I really am happy dad is at peace, even a little envious.

2010-11-24T11:12:00.004-06:00

My heart is heavy today.

My dear father returned to our Father in Heaven last night.

I wish I could be there to see the joyful reunion

with his parents and brothers and son.

I am so happy for him to be free of discomfort.

I am very sad.

I love my precious daddy, so very much.

This world, my world, will not be the same without him

.....but we are better for having had him in it.

Today we are traveling to Oklahoma City

to enjoy Thanksgiving with Brittany and Mike and their families.

Then, we will travel on to California for a Tuesday funeral.

Wild Rose Funeral Home
916 Divisadero St.
Fresno, CA 93721
559-486-7777

LDS Chapel
5685 N. Cedar Ave

Fresno, CA 93710
tentative time: 11am

2010-11-19T22:46:00.008-06:00

Tuesday was painting night; each youth contributed.

It was so fun!

I love their energy and attitude. . .

teenagers are constant motion

When they weren't painting,

they wrote letters to wounded soldiers in the hospital.

For weeks, they have been collecting toys and activities

for the wounded children, who have little to do during the long hours in bed.

**********

The kids were so proud of how the banner turned out,

they did a great job!

I added a few details for dimension, and the banner is ready to go.

This has been a really rewarding project

We send our prayers, along with this care package, to Afghanistan....

in hopes their spirits will be lifted.

2010-11-18T17:48:00.003-06:00

I think I have said it before, but it bears repeating...

I think Homemaking is the most important class in Jr. High.

I still use those skills every day!

Today I attended the annual Thanksgiving feast

prepared by Chloe's Home Economics class.

It was so fun! and Chrissy came along too!

First, they set a lovely table

with place cards, real dishes (not paper) and tablecloths

Then, we were welcomed by Mrs Osteen, the teacher (she's at the end)

The class was so cute and excited.

The menu was delicious:

Stuffing and Chicken casserole
Broccoli and Cheese with Rice
Green Bean Casserole
Yam Casserole
Garlic Mashed Potatoes

I was impressed most by Chloe's yummy Pumpkin Bars

Mmmmm. Pecan Pie and Pumpkin Bars for dessert

I am so proud of Chloe and her great cooking skills!

She can try them out on me anytime!

2010-11-11T14:37:00.013-06:00

Thank you !

Veterans and active Military !

I am part of the Young Women's program at church, these days.

it's a busy calling

.....and I love it.

I teach 3 Sundays a month, which is my assignment.

But I also like to do artwork and decorate and other stuff, so...

this month, my calling got soopa bizzy

The youth are gathering toys to send to a US hospital in Afghanistan.

Among the wounded US (and some Taliban) soldiers, there are some brave little Afghan children who have been caught in the crossfire.

The walls of the hospital are bare and cold, and my job is to change that.

First, I drew up a design containing American symbols
that would warm their heart
and remind them of home.

Then, I cut down and hemmed a canvas drop cloth
into a 6' x 9' canvas banner.

A coat of white primer prepares the canvas for paint.

Next, transferring the drawing onto the banner,

with the help of my projector/enlarger.

I am doing all the lettering, since that can be tricky

then I will label sections for the youth to paint,

kind of like a giant paint by number.

We took a photo of the entire youth group to iron on to the banner;
two of the girls have a father who is a doctor in the Afghan hospital.

I am so thankful to have the opportunity to serve AND do what I love....art.

Next Tuesday is painting day.

I am excited to see the finished product!

2010-11-01T09:03:00.017-05:00

Chloe is 13.

Trick or Treating is great when you are 13.

I remember how cool it felt to roam the streets without mom and dad in tow.

We would plan our route for maximum candy acquisition,

dragging full pillow cases home to separate into piles.

I gave my mom all the Mounds and Almond Joys and kept the rest.

By age 14,

the boys we met while Trick or Treating,

were more interesting than the candy.

I imagine next year will be the last time Chloe will want to go....

she will be in High School

and that will be a little sad

no more flapper girl or pirate, Teletubby or Disney Princess

just my pretty girl, growing up.

2010-10-15T06:00:00.008-05:00

No school Monday = Mother daughter date

it's simple math:

Walmart (new outfit for Chloe)

+

Sonic (half price drink and a dollar chicken sandwich)

=

Fun date (mother/daughter bonding)

2010-10-13T00:00:00.003-05:00

Weekend of Favorite Things - Day Two

Brittany and Ili drove down from Oklahoma City.

We ate our way through the Texas State Fair

they deep fry EVERYTHING imaginable

Chloe samples a fried smore

and Brit tried my personal favorite,

the fried cheesecake

there was lots of entertainment

and I gotta tell ya,

these ladies have my respect.

They are livin' life on their terms.

Watching the dog show

and then, the perfect ending to our day:

the USMC Drum and Bugle Corps

2010-10-11T10:41:00.006-05:00

Weekend of favorite things - Day One

I love:

my family
baseball
the fair
junk food
perfect weather

Saturday, we met Mike and Marci in Dallas

to watch the Texas Rangers in the playoffs.

Major league baseball sits pretty high on my list of favorite things.
It is quite an event:

patriotism,

mixed with sunny skies, electric anticipation of your team winning,
hot dogs, cheese fries, soda, and rockin' music

National anthem sung by Charlie Pride

followed by an awesome flyover

we spotted non other than

George W. Bush

I don't attend many events with former Presidents

I felt honored

perfect day

that could have only been improved by our team winning

2010-10-07T13:20:00.003-05:00

I love stars

....not a lot of people know this about me.

it's not a secret (like my secret that I like to watch QVC fashions
strictly for entertainment, I never buy anything.
I mean really, is anything more entertaining than 2 hours of Isaac Mizrahi?)

anyway, I love stars

more importantly, I love people that know me well enough to know I love stars

and I never feel more loved than when those same people give me a star gift

A neat package arrived yesterday from my cousin Lynne
I was touched before I even opened it,

This is what she she sent

and I didn't think she knew about my love of stars.

They look beautiful with these, that I already had,

they add to my collection, which includes these

that my dear sis, Jenn, bought for me in Mexico.

I have worn this charm necklace for many years.

Each charm represents a member of my family......the star is me.
I got it in London when I was 19

My first wedding ring was shaped like a star.

Steve had it custom made for me.
about 10 years in, I lost it.

that's all I have to say about stars.

2010-09-22T17:45:00.001-05:00

Ready for the reveal?

I love this room, it is sunny, peaceful and airy.

I adore the pine furniture against the gray walls,

so serene.

We purchased the antique pine pieces at auction, over 20 years ago
and though the pine craze is past,
it seems to have found a place among traditional classics.

This is my bed, I LOVE it

I asked Steve if there was any way in the world
he could build me a white version of it.

(yes, he is amazing)

mirror and chandelier, Ikea
(fun shopping day with Chrissy)

burlap shams, diane

beautiful sticks, from our back forest

Monogram Pillow, hand towel, and black basket,
Restoration Hardware

Steve's Jr Hi bowl
filled with keepsakes from our travels

monkscloth drapes, diane

vintage photos
my great grandparents (Brazos, TX 1880's)

Little ballerina, charcoal drawing by Meema
(inspired by this wonderful photo by Marci)

Finished just in time for our first guest;

Josh Pratt arrives tonight.

Hope he doesn't mind the chandelier,

Steve says, "it's more feminine than I expected"

It's in style, Steve. deal with it.

2010-09-17T06:00:00.006-05:00

. . . and the rest is up to me

the head boss decorator.

Palette: neutral tones of gray, tan, cream and white

Accents: silver, sparkle and crystal

Warming: antique pine furniture, family photos, and nature

I'll be busy the next few days

sewing shams and drapes,

sketching and framing,

and collecting natural features from our back forest.

2010-09-15T06:00:00.010-05:00

Steve, the head boss carpenter,

installed crown molding

and here is a sneak peak at his other project

Can I just say how much I love it when Steve builds stuff?

It's very manly and makes me swoon

...probably the way he feels when I make his dinner

Ladies, if you are trying to choose between two men,
take the one that can swing a hammer

it will make your life wonderful,

especially if you are the creative, home improving/decorating type,

like myself

2010-09-13T06:00:00.007-05:00

Making progess:

Steve, the head boss electrician,

installed can lights

and a ceiling fan.

I am loving gray walls lately,

soooo gray it is!

Some times of the day, the color looks blue-gray

. . . not sure how I feel about that.

Paint, especially in the cooler tones, is difficult to choose.
but I think I can work with this color
. . . in any case, it's a fresh change

. . . and let me tell ya, painting that ceiling was scary

it's 12 feet up there

I was happy to get off that ladder

2010-09-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

Under Construction

the vacuum left by Chrissy and Zach, that is my upstairs

is getting redecorated.

a very limited budget requires tapping deep into my right brain
(for maximum creativity.)

Steve's job is to turn this pile of Home Depot inventory into

. . . .well, let's make that a surprise.

and my first job, is this:

I am really excited about this.
Creating things for our home is what Steve and I would do all day every day,
if time and money permitted.

We love it.

gotta get to work

2010-09-06T06:00:00.004-05:00

she needs wide open spaces*

Chrissy and Zach moved out Saturday.

sniff. sniff.

I LOVED having them live here.
I tried all of my tricks to make them stay
but they need to have their independent married couple life.

whatever

I respect them for making their own way, but
I still don't like it.

if only we hadn't gotten along beautifully
or if they were noisy
or messy
or if Chrissy was a terrible cook.

If only they didn't make the house feel full and happy,

I would be glad to see them go

.... but they did

and I'm not.

*dixie chicks

2010-09-04T06:00:00.004-05:00

DINNER AND A SHOW

for as long as I can remember

Steve and I have had a date every Friday night.

It is recommended by the Church leaders for a happy marriage.

They also encourage:
Family Home Evenings, family prayer and scripture reading
which, to be honest, I struggle with.

But, we sure don't have trouble keeping date night.

These days our date night is always, almost without exception, the same:
dinner at Texas Land and Cattle on Riverwalk.
Steve orders the large steak, I get shrimp and we share.
it is perfect.

Steve will tell you that I rarely try new places or even new menu items
why?
because if I only get out to eat once a week,
I want to make sure I love what I eat,
so I don't take chances

Well, last night, we got adventurous !
We bought a coupon for $45 for dinner and a play for two.

the dinner was at a fun Italian restaurant

there was cute vintage decor

and people stepping into our shot

We got front row/center seats to "Red White and Tuna".

Small local theater is my favorite way to see plays.

the show was hilarious

....if you like small town Texas gossip humor

We looked forward to it all week, and planned our outfits,

which was half the fun

I love date night

and I love my date

2010-09-03T06:00:00.003-05:00

need I say more?

2010-08-27T22:23:00.014-05:00

I was told I could rest,

but admonished to provide some evidence of productivity

within a week.

or else.

ok. ok. so here's something:

Since arriving home, I have indeed, been lazy,
but not in the lay around and watch tv all day sense.

Rather,

in the ignore the cleaning, shopping, cooking and laundry
while doing what I really wanted to do sense.

I really wanted to decorate for fall,
and read blogs and my Oprah magazine.
I wanted to hem my dress,
and let the dogs come in all day
(even if they are covered with fleas)
and go to work with Chrissy
and watch her teach a college class (proud moment).
and work on upcoming YW lessons I will teach.

So, it isn't like I did nothing all day,
I even mowed the lawn
(because I wanted to)
in fact, the only thing I did,
that I didn't want to do was

exercise.

ugh.

but, I highly recommend to everyone:

take some time, every once in awhile,
and do just what you want to do...
and not what needs to be done

it is awesome.

ps. it really helps if you have a Chrissy living with you,
and don't have preschoolers.

So, it brings me to this:

I love to make grand table displays for the holidays.
For fall 2010,
I took some ideas from Pottery barn,
mixed with a couple of my own,
and fiddled around with them for days.
Finally,
I came up with this.

I am so happy fall is here

it is my favorite time of year

2010-08-25T13:43:00.003-05:00

I have not posted since I returned. I have been a lazy girl.

I have been sleeping a lot and not cooking or cleaning.

Man, these trips wear me out. Time change, stress, and all that.

anyway, I am still a blog reader, just not a contributor

a taker, not a giver, as it were

guilty as charged.

. . . . and I know this is a boring post

2010-08-18T06:00:00.004-05:00

SS Fairwinds
Captain's Log August 18, 2010

I checked out of my cabin this morning;

I am Texas bound.

Farewell Fairwinds, see you in December!

2010-08-16T18:00:00.002-05:00

I took mom and dad over to their former home today.

It was the first time they had seen it since they moved.

Messy piles are everywhere; some for my sisters, the rest, to be donated.

It was sad to watch them go through the remnants of their life.

But someone mentioned lunch

and they both hopped in the car and didn’t look back.

I think they are adjusting very well

And that makes me happy.

My last two days here, will be spent cleaning out the old home

then, my work here will be done.

2010-08-15T12:47:00.009-05:00

SS Fairwinds

Captains’s Log August 14, 2010

I had a fun day of family visiting.

Ruby, Lawrence and Jerry dropped by;

we lunched on board

Then I went ashore for a farewell BBQ for Nick,

who's headed back to college

Later that evening I attended an Eagle Court of Honor

Good job Evan!

It was a touching moment

when Evan selected his brother, Milan, as his mentor

Busy day!

Can’t wait to get back to my cabin and turn in.
Sleep is wonderful aboard the Fairwinds….
the gentle motion of the ship and the low rumble of the engines….

Ahhhh……..gooooood night.

2010-08-13T21:17:00.008-05:00

SS Fairwinds

Captain's Log August 13, 2010

I can't believe I have been here a week.
I have been going non-stop,
helping my parents move out of their old digs and into the new
. . . . . which are niiiiiiice, by the way.
The following way too many photos
are for my family to see what I am up to in good ol' Cali.

view from the entry

entry

guest bath

utility room near kitchen

master bath

patio

dining room

lobby

bistro (soda is free :)

bingo / pool

theater / game room

gym / swimming pool

Dinner with Laura (Jenny is taking the photo)

Mom, Dad, and their 4 girls

Gibbs Family plus newlyweds Richard & Jessica

Home Sweet Home

2010-08-10T06:00:00.003-05:00

I'm jetting off to California, dahling

ta ta

2010-08-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

My 3 girls

on a bench

Brittany, Christine, Chloe

. . . . aaaand

Chrissy in the window.

2010-08-06T06:00:00.015-05:00

I would like to personally thank Chrissy for making me feel pretty today.

I am 56 years old

and let's face it, pretty is getting harder to come by.

I got a haircut today

and came home depressed because it was too short.

It felt like my head looked too small for my body

pinhead, came to mind.

So I ratted up my hair, put on false eyelashes and dressed up like it was 1964

makes perfect sense to me

Chrissy took photos of me, even though it was 100 degrees

she really is a magician behind the lens, check her out HERE

I like my haircut better now,
which is usually the case, after I get home and style it.
But, I just can't be ratting it up every day like this
and putting on false eyelashes (even though they are very fun),
what's a girl to do?

2010-08-04T06:00:00.003-05:00

The last time we were in Disneyland

I bought myself a little present:

a Mickey Mouse cookie cutter.

With all my cuties together last weekend,

I thought it was a good time to try it out.

******

what could be better than a Mickey rainbow?

a double rainbow, of course.

I call them The Happiest Cookies On Earth;

these were almost too cute to eat,

now, I am dying to go back to Disneyland,
it really is my favorite place :)

2010-08-02T06:00:00.012-05:00

things to do at Meema's:

play Disney computer games

play with babushka dolls

(with 80's Meema and Papa in the background)

play Princess Monopoly with Chloe

go to the movies

celebrate Brittany's birthday!

Eat yummy Peanut Butter Swirl Ice Cream Cake

deeeelish, and easier to make than it looks

laugh, hug, kiss

game night

the end

2010-07-30T06:00:00.006-05:00

Brittany and Ili are coming this weekend!

Mike, Marci and the cuties are coming too!

It is one of those rare times when my whole family with be together

and I will be one happy momma :)

Sunday, August 1st is Brit's birthday!

It will be so fun to celebrate all together.

Happy Birthday

Brittany !

I found a few pictures

that I thought would be fun to share

on your special day!

I can't believe you are 30!

I am so happy to spend your special day with you!

I love you, Mom

2010-07-28T06:00:00.021-05:00

One year and

over 22,000 hits

on my blog

I know there are blogs that get that many hits in a week.

But I am coming from a place where I didn't even want to start a blog

for fear no one would read it

and then I would feel, well . . . . sort of sad.

So thank you for reading

and super thanks for commenting;

It makes me happy.

and thanks for your blogs too,

I know and appreciate the effort you put into them.

Your blogs enrich my life;

and that alone, makes blogs worthwhile.

******

I met my goal to blog for one year,

3 times a week (most weeks).

It feels good.

I have no plans to stop blogging,

but my self inflicted pressure is off.

I am going to have the past year's blog printed and bound;

after that,

we'll just see what happens

2010-07-26T06:00:00.018-05:00

I don't know if I hate change more than anyone else

we are all creatures of habit

creatures of security

but I can sure speak for myself when I say I dislike it.

change, that is.

I don't mind small changes, like rearranging the furniture and fashion trends. But lately, my life has been chock full of big change.... the kind that rocks my foundation. It seemed to start with moving the Texas, after being a California girl for 50 years. It was a fun adventure until our business went south, taking our life savings with it.

Then, we lost Tom,
then Wyatt,
and dad had a stroke

all in the space of a year.

And the latest: facing the fact that my parents must move from the home they built, lived in, loved, and raised 4 daughters. A 41 year stay, that spanned careers, birthday parties, wedding receptions and great-grandchildren has come to an end. Their longtime nest is too much for them to handle now. They, and we, their daughters, are very sad to face this reality. We have tried to find another way, but the march of time and inevitability has taken over. The wolf: growing elderly, is at their door.

I am going to Fresno in 2 weeks to help my parents move into an assisted living facility. It is beautiful and elegant and honors their dignity. But it means leaving their home. The hardest thing was hearing my mom cry on the phone when I asked her about it. She had to hand the receiver off to dad and I listened to him try to be brave as he reasoned that this move is what is best. His head knows it's true; his heart wasn't fully convinced. If there is one thing dad and mom always have made clear, it is that they want to die peacefully in the place they love best, their home. . . . and now that will not happen. My dad, who has always been strong and in charge, now sounds weaker and resigned.

I hate that.

I will photograph their home and all of its lovely rooms before we dissemble the best of it to move into their new place., To ease the transition, my sister Marsha and I will do our best to make their new apartment feel just like their old home. I am sad because this signals the end of an era and the beginning of their last days, or hopefully, years, on this earth.

I hate that.

Then I will photograph their new place . . . and I am sure it will look beautiful with all of their things in it. I'll keep a stiff upper lip and be strong for them and offer encouraging words that convince them, and myself, that this is a good thing. . . . because it really is the best thing for them now. I will focus on the positives: they are in beautiful, safe facility and we have peace of mind that they are getting the help they need with cooking, cleaning and being checked on often.

As daughters, we will keep looking forward, taking one day at a time, knowing more change is to come. This kind of change is hard and

I hate it.

******

The previous emotions were my initial reaction, written 5 days ago. As I re-read them today, it sounds a little dramatic, but that is how I was feeling at the time. Change is a process, and I am happy to report that we are all adjusting well, dare I say, even excited about the move. This new facility is really beautiful, I hear the food is fantastic, and every need is met.... every whim catered to. I would swear my parents are moving onto a luxury cruise ship, complete with a European chef and perky cruise director.

So . . .

everything is going to be okay

after all

and I am looking forward to visiting them on the SS Fairwinds.

their new place is called the Fairwinds,

isn't that funny? it even sounds like a cruise ship.

2010-07-24T13:20:00.000-05:00

Jennifer, Me, Marsha, Susan - May 2010

Happy Birthday !!

to my dear sister

Susan

2010-07-23T06:00:00.013-05:00

The Center of the Universe

This is Hills & Dales.

It's a mile and a half from my house, on Loop 1604.

Hills & Dales is about as Texas as it gets . . .

the kind of place that perpetuates certain stereotypes.

It looks like this most of the time:

but on warm Wednesday evenings,

it looks like this:

Wednesday is Bike Night

I drive by Hills & Dales nearly every day, though I have never pulled in. . . it really isn't my style. But that doesn't keep it from putting a smile on my face. On Wednesday night, it is a snapshot of carefree lifestyle. Folks outdoors relaxing at wooden picnic tables and mingling in the warm sunset, enjoying the "world's greatest selection of beer". Some fitted head to toe in leather, others in Texas uniform: jeans, boots, plaid shirt (sleeves optional), and ball cap. I imagine them swapping "bike" stories of their adventures on the highway.

I have to admit, there is a certain romance in the freedom of biking down the open road; unencumbered with responsibility, heading for parts unknown. And of course, there is no better place to do that than Texas.

Steve and I used to say that someday we would buy a motorcycle with a sidecar; he would drive and I would be the passenger (in a cute leather outfit). We were half joking, half serious; it was years ago when anything and everything seemed possible. Now that I have reached (in truth, passed) the age we imagined ourselves doing that sort of thing, I would rather watch the crowd at Hills and Dales than participate.

Not that we wouldn't fit in, they are all mature folks and I am guessing they are about as close to the open road lifestyle as I am. Wednesday night is, most likely, a nice break from their jobs as lawyers and accountants. Really, it just isn't my style . . . I don't drink beer, and I don't think head to toe black leather is my, (or Steve's) best look. But there is something that comes over me when I pass by the carefree Wednesday night crowd. Seeing them, reminds me to stop once in awhile, take a deep breath, and enjoy some leisure time.

. . . . . . and on this Summer morning, that means sitting in my Adirondack chair, looking off my back porch at the lush green beauty of nature, and being thankful that, at this moment, the best things in life are free. No leather outfit, no Harley, just me, fresh air, a good book, and the dogs.

2010-07-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

this is Ruth

She was my mother's childhood doll.

Mom named her Ruth, after her older sister.

When I turned eight, Ruth became mine.

Ruth sits on my nightstand.

and She is getting old and cracked.

I know she should be in a display case,

but I like having her near me;

it feels like I am close to my mother.

******

2010-07-19T06:00:00.007-05:00

It is summertime

and I am reminded of my favorite vacation:

Republica Dominicana

This young Dominican came to the window of our car at a stop light

offering delicious chicken empanadas

Until the fall of 1997, I had no idea where The Dominican Republic was located on this great earth. A letter addressed to my son, Michael, from the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints calling him to serve a mission there, sent my geographically challenged family straight to our globe. We were thrilled to discover it was on a tropical island in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. Then and there, we decided we would return with him some day soon after his mission.

Only mothers of missionaries know the emotional dichotomy that tugs as you send your first child, and only son, away with your heart to spend 2 years in unknown territory doing exactly what you hoped he would choose to do at this juncture in his 19 year old life. We know the ache when we pass his empty room and the pride and satisfaction of knowing he is committed, and brave, enough to take this on. We know how it feels to desperately want to speak to him and hug him and how foolish it feels to clutch the fax machine when it rings on Monday, knowing it connects you to another fax machine four thousand miles away that he is simultaneously touching, as he sends his weekly letter. We know, how your heart pounds and eyes moisten as his precious handwritten words begin to appear. And missionary mothers know, all too well, how important it is to comply with the minimal contact rules so he can stay focused and not give in to a homesick battle of his own.

So when the day comes that you get to see him again and your pride swells and your excited arms wrap around a new young man who is mature and self possessed and dignified and the apple you sent away has returned polished and dipped in gold, you thank the heavenly guided experience that made him the new man that now stands before you and you want to hear about and see and share every bit of it with him.

In May 2001 we took the trip of a lifetime.

It was a wonderful, binding experience for our family,

Here are some favorite moments. . . .

This is the first church in the Americas;

it was built by Christopher Columbus

Prior to our visit, I didn't know
that when Christopher Columbus discovered America in 1492,
he had actually landed in the Dominican Republic.

He established the capital city, Santo Domingo

he built this fort to protect the city from pirates,

El Conde

The main shopping district in Old Town

LDS Temple

Many things are still done the old way

I love my Dominican figurines

and my handcrafted jewelry

Amber (the DR is called The Amber Coast)------------Black Coral & Pink Conch

This stone is Larimar, it is found-------------------------------pestle and mortar
exclusively in the Dominican Republic------------------------------------------------

The multi-stone necklace & earrings and the pestle & mortar

are gifts Michael brought me from his mission

The Dominican Republic is home to Punta Cana,

one of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Mike dove into the Caribbean and brought this beauty up for me

It is a Queen Conch

(on a dinner plate so you can see how huge it is)

We gave the conch meat to a local man (it is a delicacy there) but some residue was left inside the shell. When we got to the airport, it started to smell

. . . .ooooh the stench.

We wrapped the suitcase in plastic bags, nothing helped.

Our family still has a good laugh remembering how people's expressions changed
if they got close enough to smell that bag.

(Sorry folks, nothing was going to stop me from getting my treasure home)

We have been fortunate enough to visit the Dominican Republic twice

Warm, muggy summer weather always reminds me of it;

we call it D.R. weather,

and south Texas has a lot of it.

I hope to visit the Dominican Republic again someday.

I know when Mike sees this post, he will want to go again too!

******

2010-07-16T06:00:00.016-05:00

We had a fun week

visiting with Mike, Marci, and the babies.

The golfers in the group didn't waste any time getting out there on the course;

(I'm pretty sure they golfed every day of the visit)

then, a relaxing afternoon at the pool.

Later, we all had a yummy mexican dinner on Riverwalk.

Our table near the water had a lovely view;

the sunlight through the trees and reflecting off the water

was especially beautiful that evening.

The next day, Papa and I had some special time with the babies

while Mike and Marci had some special time with each other

on an overnight date.

Tradition dictated that we take a train ride at the park;

Preston was old enough on this visit

to really love the ride!

afterward, we all wanted a treat, so Papa suggested the Target diner.

It was sooo fun . . . I think we just started a new tradition;

it's hard to beat a bag of popcorn and a cherry Icee

the dishwasher has been broken, so we have lots of paper plates around;

they are great for crafts!

and Preston loves the little fire engine

I salvaged from a neighbor's trash pile

Why do people throw away perfectly good stuff?

there were many hours of puzzle time

Toward the end of the visit,

Mike went through the house collecting all the laundry

(he got some good stuff :)

We had so much fun

I will miss you!

Come back soon!

2010-07-14T06:00:00.011-05:00

I really think Oklahoma is a beautiful state

lush and green (the parts I've seen, at least)

My grandparents were from that part of the country

so I feel a connection.

******

while we were headed out of town on Sunday,

we passed a row of tall sunflowers.

I made Steve turn around so I could get some photos

these are my favorites:

while I was shooting these I could hear the huge furry bumble bees

humming away like little lawn movers

it was so cute

When we arrived in San Antonio,

Mike, Marci, and the cuties were at our home!

Friday, I'll share the hi lights of visit :)

aren't these beautiful?

with the blue sky, fluffy clouds and bright sun shining through their petals?

they make me happy

2010-07-12T06:00:00.007-05:00

We just returned from our trip to Oklahoma!

exhausted from hard work

exhilarated from rewarding results

already missing Brittany and Ili

it was a great trip!

We went to help remodel their bathroom

here are the before shots:

the door opened to the left, into a wall

the room was so narrow, the counter top was just 10 inches deep

and the carpet was disgusting

We moved the wall and the toilet back,

using up 2 feet of a closet in the bedroom.

Ili is standing where the toilet will be moved;

Steve is moving the old plumbing.

gross work, plumbing.

that is mud, by the way, not . . . well, you know.

Steve says you couldn't pay him enough to do this for a living

Ili is glad he has that pilot thing to fall back on

Steve, showing off his handy-work;

he moved the sink plumbing, stubbing out for a second sink

Brittany placing the new tile floor

what do ya do when sweat is dripping in your eyes?

put on a do-rag, of course

are you ready?

drum roll . . . .

ta daaaaaa!

here it is!

It is very Pottery Barn / Restoration Hardware

I love it!

What did Brittany and I do

while the guys were working in the bathroom, you ask?

We were redecorating the Nursery, of course

Because, one of these days (soon we hope)

Wyatt's little brother or sister will be coming

. . . . and now everything is ready for him or her :)

We pulled down the ugly wallboard,

painted the walls butter yellow

laid new flooring

and replaced the chandelier with a fan.

the chandelier has a new home in the dining area

We did a couple of other odds and ends:

new under counter microwave

and butcher block counter top

new screen door

(mosquitoes are ravenous in OKC)

everything looked so nice when we left,

I turned to take one last picture

but the best feeling of all

was watching Brittany and Ili get ready for Church

in their beautiful new bathroom

Thanks for letting us spend a week working in your cute home, Brit and Ili

We really enjoyed it!

We love you!

2010-07-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

We are in Oklahoma

working on another episode of extreme home makeover.

I LOVE working on houses . . . . painting, sheet rocking, tiling . . . all of it

and this opportunity comes with a bonus:

a visit with Brittany & Ili

I'll have before and after photos when we return!

2010-07-06T06:00:00.011-05:00

everything's bigger in Texas

and here's more proof. . . .

I give you

The fabulous

Texas Giant Hibiscus

currently featured in my front yard

you get the idea?

the blossom is larger than my head

2010-07-04T06:00:00.015-05:00

Happy

Fourth of July

. . . . . . O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

We dare not forget that we are the heirs of that first revolution.
~John F. Kennedy

I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives.
I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.
~Abraham Lincoln

For what avail the plough or sail, or land or life, if freedom fail?
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

May I never wake up from the American dream.
~Carrie Latet

******

Freedom

is the greatest blessing our country has to offer.

With deep humility, I thank all who have contributed it.

Happy Fourth of July

From the Freeman House

I love red, white and blue bunting.

Well, I actually love anything red, white and blue,

but I wanted to do something special this July Fourth

so I enlisted the help of my sewing machine and Walmart's $1/yard fabrics.

God bless America, land that I love,
Stand beside her and guide her
Through the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans white with foam,
God bless America,
My home sweet home.

-- Irving Berlin

2010-07-02T06:00:00.016-05:00

I worked in the back yard this week.

Chrissy was my helper. Have I told you what a workhorse that girl is?

well, she is.

I showed her how to bundle tree trimmings for easy carrying;

she took to it like a pro

I am just now getting to the Spring weeding and tree trimming.

Thanks to Hurricane Alex, it is overcast

the sun is not beating down on us, but man is it muggy

It is only 80 degrees out, which is the perfect summer temperature

when it's not 90 percent humidity

anyway,

I am also working on a little somethin' special for the Fourth of July

stay tuned . . . . .

2010-06-30T06:00:00.041-05:00

today is Michael's birthday

My first child, and only son,

Michael is very special to me.

. . . . . mothers have unique connections to their sons.

first birthday / kindergarden

I was very lucky to be blessed with a first child like Michael;
I think it actually made parenting easier.
Brittany and Chrissy just watched obedient, good natured Michael,
and followed suit. Anyway, that's how I remember it.

Mike is smart and funny,

and has great friends

Michael, Heber, Joshua (these guys hung around our house a lot, I love 'em)

Mike shares a love of fishing with cousin, Spencer

a good athlete

avid Oakland A's fan

musician / singer / songwriter

Eagle Scout

Missionary

Dominican Republic 1998

A few years later, our family was lucky enough to visit the Dominican Republic

BYU graduation day, with his sweet wife, Marci

Michael is a wonderful husband and father

One of Mike's outstanding traits is his competitiveness.

This side of his nature was never more apparent than when he ran track;

watching him race brought some of the most thrilling moments in my life.

This track meet, in particular, was my favorite:

It was June 30, 1996, his 18th birthday. When he was randomly assigned the number 18 to wear on his jersey, I knew it was a good omen. We had driven 5 hours to watch Mike run in an important track meet in Reno, Nevada. At the stadium entrance, a permanent sign proudly held the names, times and events of all the stadium record holders, daring the anxious athletes to be good enough, fast enough, to garner a spot on the board and earn a place in history.

Mike's event, the 400 meter hurdles, is a grueling race (full speed around the track, while jumping hurdles). Considered a college/Olympic event, Mike, a recent high school graduate, had little experience with it. Mike's goal that day was to beat his personal best, which, if accomplished, could break the stadium record.

The gun went off; as always, my heart pounded out of my chest. I slipped into a zone where I heard none of the screaming bystanders and saw nothing but Michael's position in the race. Though the hurdles were staggered on the curves, I had taught myself to see all the lanes and Mike's relative position, at the same time. He cleared the first hurdle perfectly. At that point, his arduous training became crucial to maintaining his stride, timing, and stamina. Throughout the race, he maintained good position

. . . . . and then, turning for the home stretch,

I saw that he and another runner were tied for first place.

It was like watching slow motion and real time, both at once;

two determined athletes, in unison, straining toward the finish line.

I couldn't get my breath. Tears welled up in my eyes.

Go Mike Go!!!!!!

it was a photo finish !

both runners had a record breaking time,

but only one of them could earn a spot on the stadium record board.

We waited an eternity (20-30 minutes) for the results.

Finally, the answer came:

HE WON !!!

Thank you, Michael, for one of the most exciting days of my life!

a page from his track scrapbook

Happy Birthday Michael

I love you!

2010-06-27T12:00:00.003-05:00

I loved, so much, what new pillows did for my living room

it inspired me to sew for my bedroom.

I changed Fall/Winter 2009

into

Spring/Summer 2010

I must have purchased 30 down pillows over the years;

I never have to buy another pillow as long as I live,

just keep recovering the same old ones.

It is amazing

what a few dollars, Hancock Fabrics, and a sewing machine

can do for a room

I sewed these four days ago;

every time I walk into my room I am surprised all over again

. . . . and it brightens my day.

I seriously think the best class I ever took

was 7th grade Homemaking:

a semester of cooking + a semester of sewing =

a lifetime of happy

2010-06-25T06:00:00.010-05:00

Miss Eliza, Miss Makenna, Miss Chloe, and Miss Maya

Chloe's 13th birthday celebration

began with a luncheon

then off to Six Flags Fiesta Texas

with 3 of her best buds, and cool sis, Chrissy

after a fun day at the park,

Miss Lisa joined us

for pizza, cupcakes, and presents

Reese's Cup chocolate chocolate

and pink frosted chocolate

I am not usually a cupcake maker

but these were a lot of fun to do

Miss Chloe and Miss Eliza were great helpers

Makenna, Eliza, Maya, Lisa, Chloe

It was a great day!!

Happy Birthday Miss Chloe!

2010-06-23T06:00:00.031-05:00

Happy Birthday Bo

this is my dear sister, Marsha

she is married to one of The Blues Brothers

We were the only children in the family until I was 8 years old,
so we developed a very close relationship, with similar taste in most everything.

We played together constantly as children and shared secrets as young women.

I felt very motherly and protective toward her;
once, I bloodied a neighbor girl's nose for bullying her.

We made up special nicknames for each other that changed over the years,
but for the past 40, we've called each other Bo.

Bo is a beautiful and talented woman
and a wonderful mother to her 7 children.

She is the only daughter in town near my parents
and I deeply appreciate the time, love and care she gives them.

Have a wonderful birthday Bo!

I love you!

2010-06-21T10:00:00.008-05:00

When dad was in the nursing home, for rehab,

I would stay long hours with him.

When he finally started feeling well enough to leave his room

we would "bust him out"

you know, like he was a prisoner.

I wheeled him out the front doors and around the parking lot

then, I smuggled in a diet Pepsi for him

(that explains the "I'm stickin' it to the man" look on his face)

truth be told, there was a soda machine right there in the facility,
but somehow, dad felt like he was getting away with a misdemeanor
when he was drinking that pepsi

On this day, Dad, Jenny and I sat outside, talked, and watched the sun go down.
The staff finally came out to let us know they were locking up for the night;
it was great.

Thanks to my sis, Jen for taking these photos;
I didn't pack my camera.
on purpose.
I'd just had it with sickness and funerals.

Those were precious days with dad.
We shared meals and took walks, had long talks and said prayers.
I got to see my dad's spirit during those visits;
he is an honorable, kind, forgiving, generous man.

I am so very thankful to still have my dad to wish Happy Father's Day to.

Such a blessing

2010-06-20T06:00:00.034-05:00

Once upon a time, long long ago (13 years)

there was a Queen who had 3 children (ages 14, 16 and 19).

One day, this lucky Queen received the best surprise ever:

she and the King, were going to have another baby girl.

King Steven declared the new princess would be named Chloe Cozette Freeman

When princess Chloe arrived,

the nurses voted her fairest in the land (hospital).

From the moment of her birth,
princess Chloe's beauty inspired the Queen to become a photographer,
like unto Ann Geddes.

Hundreds of dollars were spent on film and developing over the years,

until the merciful invention of digital photography.

The Princess was clothed in finery

from The Gap, Nordstrom and Gymboree

Princess Chloe grew exceedingly fair and lovely.

As she grew in stature, she was truly the light of their lives.

She was schooled in piano, dance, swimming and soccer,

but nothing surpassed her love of art (or dogs).

She was hailed for her fine artistic skills and excelled in academics.

Chloe had many friends

and delighted in hanging out

with the other princesses her age.

On this day, June 20, 2010,

Princess Chloe enters into teenagehood.

King Steven and Queen Diane declare an official holiday;
all the maidens in the land shall be invited to a Royal Ball
to be held in Chloe's honor.

The festivities shall commence at Six Flags Fiesta Texas!
There will be swimming, roller coasters, cupcakes and presents.

let the trumpets sound!

and now,

the Royal Birthday Photo Shoot:

lighting crew:

I love you, Fair Chloe

and wish you

a very

Happy Birthday!

2010-06-19T10:00:00.011-05:00

I have some great men in my life.

I mean really great.

They make my life better,

because they, so responsibly, fulfill their roles

as fathers

Happy Father's Day

Dad

Steve

Michael

Ili

and a special kiss goes to my sweetheart

because he is out there mowing the lawn this morning

when I know for a fact, he wanted to go golfing

2010-06-18T06:00:00.019-05:00

Naomi Stayner Gibbs - age 13

Today is my mother's birthday

she is 83

I am her first child

We are best friends

If I had to select a single word to sum up mom

it would be elegant.

She is a true lady in every sense of the word . . .

right down to the lace and linen handkerchief she always carries.

Circa 1988

She has a deep and unwavering testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Dad didn't join the Church until he was 72,
so mom single-handedly took us, their 4 daughters, every Sunday.
She sat in church, without him, for 50 years

. . . . and now, they are sealed in the Temple.

I honor my mother for her dedication and perseverance;
it led to the sweet love story they are living now.

******

Mom is wonderful grandmother

She attended every piano and dance recital, track meets, and countless special events for my children.
They know, beyond a shadow of doubt, that their Grandma Nana loves them.

She taught dancing at Arthur Murray Studio

in the '50's

she and dad love ballroom dance

Mom has enriched our life with her spunk . . .

always greeting us at her door performing the Mexican Hat Dance

and without fail, having a little gift for my children.

******

Steve and I loved to travel with mom and dad.
Some of my favorite times were laughing on those trips.

Mom and I would pack our cutest clothes
and try to look our fashionable best every day of the vacation.

I could really go on and on

because my mother means everything to me.

I love you dearly,

Happy Birthday Mom!

2010-06-16T06:00:00.013-05:00

Zach is my dear son in law

His birthday is June 20th

since June 20th is also Chloe's birthday (and Father's Day),
Zach gets his birthday cyber shout out today

It is fun having Zachary in our family

because he is passionate about whatever he commits to:

my daughter, Chrissy,

God,

his country,

aaaaaaand his football team.

You haven't watched football until you have watched it with Zach.

and lest you think he is a one dimensional Texas Longhorn fan

here's this:

Zach is an avid 49ers fan.

This is my birthday gift to you, Zach

Chrissy at the Freeman Family Tailgate Party 1990

January 28, 1990 - Superbowl XXIV

We whupped the Broncos 55-10.

Go Niners !

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZACH !

I love you because:

- you are a great son in law

- you are a perfect match for Chrissy!

- you are completely comfortable with who you are

- you place no demands on others to be anything

but what they truly are.

It is a rare and wonderful quality

that you share with some other Freeman guys I know

2010-06-14T06:00:00.007-05:00

Now that he is an officially licensed Texas Electrical Contractor,

Steve has been running ads in Houston and San Antonio.

Houston work, means . . .
I get to tag along and visit Mike, Marci and the cuties

It was soooo nice to visit them this weekend

we had fun

swimming

eating popsicles

swimming while eating popsicles

reading stories

playing

more swimming

and we ate at Catfish Mike's

I am becoming a great fan of catfish . . . . YUM!

Thanks guys, for a wonderful time

I love you!

2010-06-11T06:00:00.008-05:00

Let's rewind

back to the day I got the call about my dad's stroke.

I was home that day,
doing one of my favorite things:

redecorating

I am hopelessly compelled
to recover pillows, move furniture and add accessories to my home.

Mission:

add green to my red living room.

Not so hard, really. Just your basic Complimentary Color Scheme

That day, two weeks ago,
I was whipping up pillows, making floral arrangements
and pulling out all of my pewter accents
to bring summer inside my home.

so, without further adieu,

I give you

Summer Living Room 2010

green table on loan from Chrissy,
star shaped pewter dish: gift from my dear sis, Jenny, who knows my penchant for stars.

oh, and if I am going to be completely honest,
the picture of me hand stitching is a total set up.
Chrissy did all my hand stitching . . . bless her heart.

2010-06-09T14:00:00.001-05:00

I have 2 levels of stress:

Wanna eat too much, anything and everything stress

and

Sick to my stomach, can't eat anything stress.

the first one comes with everyday life and all it encompasses. . . . .
going to bat for Chloe against a teacher who hasn't been fair to her, worrying if I offended my niece and permanently damaged the relationship, deadlines, guilt, money, what to make for dinner, . . . . you know, all that stuff

but the second variety, is the really big stuff. . . . daughter in a coma, dad had a stroke stuff. I didn't eat for 3 months when Brit was recovering from her car accident. Around here, we call it the coma diet. She and I both trimmed down nicely. This past couple of weeks with dad were no different; first thing Chloe said when she put her arm around my waist at the airport was, "you feel thinner".

It's the only upside to these life traumas,
but really folks, I don't recommend it . . . .
join a gym

So anyway, I am back to stress of the everyday variety
and making up for lost meals.

Yesterday, I made Steve take me here

and tomorrow, we are going here.

and I plan to every bite of this

to celebrate the homecoming of this guy

that should put those rolls right back where they belong

2010-06-08T11:35:00.004-05:00

I am back
and so very happy to report
that my dad is doing great.

That's right, great!

When I was packing to go see him, I took 2 weeks worth of clothes . . . and my black funeral suit (still in the suitcase from Wyatt's funeral), was zipped back up to return to California. All I could think was "this is too many funerals in a 6 month period".

too many funerals.

Dad was conscious when I arrived and I was so thankful I made it in time. He slurred his words and spoke with difficulty, but made some sense . . . when he wasn't seeing rats in the room or our eyes boiling. For four days, he worried us with hallucinations. I met with my three sisters, and made plans for mom and dad's physical and financial future care. Then, on day 5, he suddenly and miraculously began to speak clearly and make complete sense. He was transported that day to a nursing home for rehab. It was there, that the Speech Pathologist explained to me that strokes cause swelling that prevent normal brain function. As soon as the swelling subsides, the patient can return to normal, in what seems like a sudden and miraculous healing.

Dad's stroke was a blood clot in the language center of the brain, if it had been a brain bleed, like my mother had, the outcome could have been much more devastating.

I am so gratified and blessed to have my dad, back to nearly 100% of his pre-stroke self. He is going home today and I wish I could be there to see him reunited with mom. They are such sweet love birds at this point in their 57 year marriage.

Dad won't be mom's caretaker anymore. For the summer, my nephew, Milan will stay in their home to oversee things; we will hire help when he returns to college.

I am very tired. Steve picked me up at midnight last night and I chatted at him until 4 am. But I will be good as new in a day or two

The miracle of a 77 year old stroke patient coming home in good shape, is not lost on me

I am deeply grateful for another day with my dear parents.

2010-06-04T06:00:00.012-05:00

One of the best things that has happened to me in recent years
is the acquisition of 1 daughter and 2 sons
. . . . in law

So much is said about in laws,
mostly negative,
lots of punchlines.

Well, if you want to know my opinion on the matter,
gaining a new son or daughter in law is a great blessing,
and a colorful extension to the family

I feel the same way about my mother in law, Lois

I have known Lois Freeman since I was 15,
we have shared a last name since I was 22.

I am really lucky to have a mother in law that is
a friend, wise adviser, and lots of fun.

I have learned a lot from Lois. . .
everything from practical tips about the best cheese grater, pancake griddle and popcorn popper to parenting and spiritual matters.

She has been my role model of how to be a good mother in law,
and most recently, in handling loss with great dignity.

I shared one of the most precious days of my life with Lois
when she was my escort in the Oakland Temple, the day I married her son.
I owe the best thing in my life to her and Tom.
They raised the man who is my eternal companion and love,
and for that I will be forever grateful.

Happy Birthday Lois

I love you

2010-06-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Preston

This precious little guy turned one on May 13th

He is the first son of my first son

I am a lucky girl to have such great men in my life

The family got together on Memorial Day

to celebrate Preston's first birthday.

I wish I could have been there,

but I needed to be with my father.

Happy Birthday Preston!

Meema loves you!

2010-05-31T06:00:00.011-05:00

Memorial Day 2010

We live in a blessed country

at a blessed time

and may we never forget the men and women

who live and have died

to protect those blessings.

2010-05-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

Headed back to California

My dear daddy is not doing well;

he had a stroke yesterday.

I need to be with him.

I have a few posts scheduled for next week

. . . . not sure when I will return.

my heart is feeling pretty heavy

2010-05-27T06:00:00.003-05:00

so this is what I wore to visit Zach in the hospital

. . . . . got some interesting looks

and VIP access to areas marked Employees Only

sans a stethoscope, and 12 years of med school,

call me Doctor Freeman

******

Many of you have said we have blessings coming our way

thank you!

can't wait.

******

ps. dad is doing about the same

2010-05-25T17:00:00.009-05:00

What in the world is going on ???

last night

we rushed Zach (Chrissy's hubby) to the ER ;

this morning he went into surgery to have his appendix out

. . . and just two hours ago,

my father was taken to the ER:

dehydrated, drifting in and out of coherence, fluid in his lungs.

Zach is doing well and should be home tonight,

but I still haven't heard about my dear father.

I am amazed at what we are called upon (and are able) to bear

. . . . but really. this is a bit much

2010-05-24T06:00:00.008-05:00

Birthday Addendum:

When I returned from California

the mail held a birthday surprise from Ella

Addie

and Preston

aren't they beautiful?

I LOVE them!

thank you cuties !!

. . . . and someone asked to see my new birthday shoes

so, heeeeeeeeeere you go!

I love them both

but I love love the black ones.

they are Bandolino

If I custom designed a black high heel sandal for myself,

this would be it

but Steve liked the cream colored one,

soooooooo

I got both

ain't birthdays grand?

2010-05-22T06:00:00.025-05:00

Happy Birthday Tige

Over the past 2 weeks, I missed some important posts

so let us begin

with the birthday of my cute husband, Steve

May 10th

I always pay tribute to my loved ones on their birthdays,

but this one, the most important one of all, was the most difficult to do.

do you know why?

because he is so special to me

our relationship is so precious

the words are hard to find

and the words are mostly between he and I.

But these are the words I will share:

Tige, I love you because:

You were the first guy I ever kissed

You are my best friend of 40 years

I feel safe being 100 percent myself with you

Without a word, you will grab the lotion and rub my feet

You scour the local countryside for firewood because I love fires on cold nights

You cook dinner like a pro (only cuter)

You will be the last guy I ever kiss

You watch chick shows, just to be with me . . . (The Bachelor)

You work hard to take care of us

You honor your Priesthood

You are a great father

You always have a happy disposition

You are still curious about life and learning new things:
golf, leather tooling, guitar making...

but mostly because, you are perfect

.....for me.

Happy Birthday Tige

Love, Doo

2010-05-20T17:11:00.012-05:00

I am back.

physically, I mean.

but I am not back emotionally.

nor will I ever be in the same place I was just 2 short weeks ago.

trials change us.

for awhile, I won't be quite as carefree,

the sun won't shine as brightly.

someday it will stop:

that sick, sinking feeling deep in my gut

that comes every time I think of Wyatt

I wish, with all of my heart,

I could reach into Brittany and Ili's minds

and remove the pain.

I know from experience, that

one day,

I will find a place to put all of this;

it is a place that forces me to rely on my faith....more than ever

and I will be stronger than before

and a little more pragmatic

and hopefully, tempered and resilient and more faithful...

to face the next trial

because the next trial will come

and oh how I hope it comes to me

and not to my loved ones,

because that is so much harder to take.

******

my dear Wyatt,

I miss you. I love you. You are, and always will be, an important part of our family. You must be a most valiant spirit, far beyond that of my own. You came to exceptional parents; Papa and I will remain with them until we all, anxiously, meet you again.

I want you to know that your short time here served a purpose in my life. You touched me deeply. You made my goal, to live again with my family and Father in Heaven, very personal. I rededicate myself to that goal and promise you I will live the best life I can, so that I can be with you again.

Until that day, much love,

Meema

2010-05-07T11:29:00.005-05:00

Our little Wyatt

will be memorialized

Saturday, May 8, 2010
10:30am (viewing at 10am)
Midwest City LDS Chapel
110 Morningside Drive
Midwest City, OK 73110

He will buried near his namesake, Thomas Freeman

Tuesday, May 11, 2010
11:00am
Clovis Cemetery
305 N. Villa
Clovis, CA 93612

I cannot express enough,
the deep gratitude we feel
toward each of you.

Heavenly Father is wrapping his arms around us
through your comforting expressions of love.

It literally holds us up.

2010-05-06T11:50:00.010-05:00

In Memory of Wyatt Thomas Yuan
April 24, 2010- May 5, 2010

Thank you to all who have sent their love and well-wishes.
We are all feeling strengthened, especially Brittany and Ili.

Our son, Michael put together a fund
to allow people who would like to help out but don't know how they can.
Mike and his wife Marci will present the donations as a gift from all of you.

If you can and would like to help, please go to Marci's blog HERE.

We are so grateful for your prayers and concerns.
Brittany and Ili are feeling so blessed in their time of need.

2010-05-05T20:58:00.012-05:00

Last night, at 2:30am,

we received the call no parents ever want to get.

Our dear little Wyatt, just 10 days old, passed away.

Steve and I are in Oklahoma City now with Brittany and Ili

to bring whatever comfort we can offer.

Our hearts are broken.

My daughter in law, Marci, wrote a lovely tribute that you can read HERE

I am not ready to say anything more

except this:

Our knowledge that he is now with our Father in Heaven

is like a lifeline

until our hearts mend, and we can join our precious Wyatt once again.

2010-05-05T06:00:00.009-05:00

My birthday bash

started here:

every day, on the way out of the neighborhood,
we pass these cows laying in the flowers.

Today, I had the camera, so I made Steve turn the car around.
Unfortunately, when I opened the car door, it spooked 'em and they stood up.

But I am going to keep trying to get the shot I really want:
all the cows laying down, their heads and backs just peeking out of the wildflowers
...........it is verrry cute.

******

then, it was off to Fredericksburg

for breakfast at my favorite little German bakery

see the little peek of German flag behind our heads?

on the way home,

we drove through Luckenbach.

Chrissy took some pictures of us

and I took some pictures of them

That evening, Steve made yummy BBQ burgers

I got some new clothes

I love my cake plates, from Zach & Chrissy

We topped off the day with strawberry shortcake.

It was a perfect birthday

I am a blessed and lucky girl

2010-05-04T06:00:00.030-05:00

Today is my birthday!

This is me.......every decade of my life:

Happy Birthday to me!

Is that OK to say?

Yes, I am sure it is.

2010-04-30T06:00:00.013-05:00

...see our dead grass?

actually, I would prefer that you didn't see it

but you may as well; everyone else has.

the neighbor asked, "did your sprinklers stop working?"

"No, we just complied with the water only one day a week rule

during last summer's drought,

while the rest of you ignored it."

(I didn't actually say that .... but I thought it real loud in my head)

See the line of demarcation, where neighbor Tim's lovely green yard meets our brown one?

my ENTIRE front and side yard is

DEAD. BROWN. FULL OF WEEDS. HIDEOUS.

seriously, if I lived next to me, I would not be happy

******

weekend project: laying new sod

these sweet guys came to help, I love the Missionaries

and Chrissy is the hardest working woman I've ever met

Chrissy's sweet hubby, Zach even pitched in,

after working all day at his own job.

hugs and kisses to everyone

for making our yard look beautiful again

(and no longer the the one the neighbors prattle about,

and the HOA gets their knickers in a bunch over).

2010-04-28T06:00:00.014-05:00

Mike and Marci have some wonderful family photos

by this photographer

the photos inspired me to paint for Marci's birthday

(the original photos can be seen in my last post)

I tried a simplified version of my usual painting style

with a little added whimsy.

then, I couldn't get this photo out of my head

so I had to paint it too.

I popped the color on the background

and I like the interplay of complimentary colors

At 11" X 14", they are smaller than I usually paint

and I am very pleased with how they turned out.

both were painted with lots of love

of subjects I love lots

Happy Birthday Marci !

2010-04-26T06:00:00.025-05:00

Marci is my sweet daughter in law

Marci is smart and beautiful

strong, decisive, and hard working

. . . . . and she has a great laugh.

She is Super-Blogger, and was my inspiration to become one myself.

I love and respect Marci.

She is a great person

who is constantly busy improving herself

and

being a remarkable mother to my 3 grand children.

but mostly, I love her because she truly loves my son

and balances his hard work as a teacher

by providing a well run home for their family.

I am so glad Marci is a member of our family

Happy Birthday Marci

I love you!

******

2010-04-24T07:47:00.010-05:00

Wyatt Thomas Yuan

was born early this morning.

He is beautiful, and healthy.

Good job Brittany and Ili !

I can't wait to cuddle him!

2010-04-23T06:00:00.015-05:00

not gonna lie

it's my favorite show and

I'm excited

for the

Season Premiere of

Friday Night Lights

"East of Dillon"

Friday May 7th, 8/7c

With a town divided,
Coach Taylor struggles to put a team together at East Dillon.

here's a preview:

Friday Night Lights - Preview "East of Dillon" - Video - NBC.com

2 weeks from tonight!

2010-04-21T06:00:00.003-05:00

Took a drive over the weekend

saw this in the middle of a field

what the . . .

seriously,

it was by itself,

in the middle of a great big field.

Just some arches

. . . . . waiting for a restaurant

saw this too

pretty funny

2010-04-19T06:00:00.007-05:00

Triple Celebration:

Steve: Passed the Texas Master Electrician Licensing Exam

Me: Last day of work

Chloe: Inducted into the National Junior Honor Society

******

Like any proper celebration,

the evening started at Texas Land and Cattle

Yum

the ceremony for NJHS was more formal than I expected

. . . . like a graduation,

with a presentation of The Colors

and candle lighting ceremony.

it was lovely to see the students accepting their certificates

in Sunday dress,

the evening was topped off with a cake and punch reception

(and we just found out Chloe got straight A's too!)

that's what I call a parent payday!

Chloe, you are awesome!

Happy Birthday Ili

2010-04-16T06:00:00.012-05:00

Brittany married a cool guy named Ili

Ili is cool because he can fly an airplane

and he wears an Air Force flight suit.

and lets face it . . . . guys look cool in flight suits

right girls?

I love Ili because he is a man of integrity, who lives what he believes

and because he loves Brittany so much

and they always have fun adventures together.

Ili is funny and verrry smart

and verrry ambitious

and cooks great Chinese food for us!

I can't imagine our family without him.

Happy Birthday Ili !

I love you!

******

2010-04-14T06:00:00.009-05:00

Tomorrow is April 15th

Your income tax return is due.

and it is my last day of work.

Yaaaaay.

What will I do

this lady of leisure I shall become?

#1

Replant my devastated yard.

last year had four months of drought followed by 4 months of freeze

and we lost most of our plants.

ALL of the grass.

5 year old trees, bouganvilla, passion vine, agapanthas.... all gone

I am very sad. I love my yard

and dread the hard work and expense (ugh) it will take to restore it.

#2

Brittany is expecting Wyatt to be born April 26th.

Ili will deploy a week or so after that.

Steve and I are driving up to OK to get Brit and baby

and they will come to live with us for the next 4 months.

It will be very sweet

#3

Zach and Chrissy's lease is up April 30th

and they are in limbo for awhile as Zach pursues the next step in his career.

So they will be moving in with us too.

#4

Party time

. . . . . and you were worried I would have nothing to do after April 15th.

pish posh

2010-04-12T06:00:00.006-05:00

thank you brittany, chrissy, and cheryl

I owe you.

this thursday night,

steve and I will attend chloe's induction into

the National Junior Honor Society.

chloe read your comments on my blog and spoke with you too.

you helped her see

how her choices today will affect her future.

the application was lengthy;

we put it off until the last day.

her classmate, we'll call sally, said,

"you probably won't get accepted,
because you rushed through the application".

sally didn't get accepted.

I'm just sayin' . . .

******

chloe wrote the essay entirely by herself

When I wake up the first thing I think about is me, what I’m going to do, where I’m going to go, how my things are going to get done. Normally, that is how everyone is. I know when I’m doing things for my self it may feel good for a little while but it probably won’t last very long. I also know from experience that when you help other people it makes you feel good and proud of yourself for the rest of your life! Not only does it make them feel good, but it makes me feel 10 times better that I know I helped!!!

One thing to really consider is that when you do service you are helping others. I know when I help others, and I see their smiles, I did a good job. I don’t think anyone could like it more than the person you did the service for. In Kerrville, there is a community thrift store for the battered women’s shelter. When I went down to help out, I knew we were in a different part of town. People where cherishing little toys with missing eyes and a set of tea cups with broken handles and chipping paint. When I was helping them carry their loads and loads of things, I would call trash but they called treasures, I knew that I was really helping out these people and changing their lives without doing hardly anything!

Another thing to ponder is how GOOD you feel after you help or do service! The best thing, in my opinion, is helping because it is definitely a win-win situation! They get helped and you get the great, warm, fuzzy feeling you get when you help! I still feel great about doing what service I did and it is something I would definitely recommend to my friends and family!!!

You may think that taking time out of your life and spending more of it for others, you could lose something, but actually you gain much much more! The more you give the more you get! Service is one of those things that you get addicted to, in a good way.

I am so proud of her!

(it takes a village)

Happy Birthday Jenny

2010-04-09T06:00:00.004-05:00

I have a sweet sister named Jennifer

I love her because we share heart to heart conversations

and I feel safe to be 100 percent myself with her

and because she never forgets to bring me a pound of our favorite treat

but mostly, I love her because

she gets me

. . . . . . . and that is priceless.

Me, Chrissy, Jenny, Mom, Brittany in Carmel, CA

Jenny always attends my special occasions

and I love to attend hers

she has a sweet husband,

and 3 great kids.

Happy, happy Birthday, dear Jenny

I love you!

******

2010-04-07T06:00:00.015-05:00

This runner is named Perron.

His agonizing crawl over the finish line

placed him 144th in a race with 146 runners.

All that matters is . . . . .

he finished.

. . . . and I am inspired to do the same.

one week of taxes to go.

2010-04-05T06:00:00.028-05:00

Chrissy and Zach joined us

for Easter Brunch

China: courtesy of Lois Freeman

Silver pieces: courtesy of my dear mother

Wild flowers: courtesy of the Texas Hill Country

Easter Brunch Menu:

Eggs Benedict

Raspberry Blintzes

Fried Potatoes

After brunch, we feasted on General Conference

Favorite moments from Saturday's session:

#1

I am so thankful for William Tindale, who, in the 16th Century, gave his life to translate the Bible into English. And to many after him, who, at risk of life and liberty, gave their precious savings to purchase Bibles, which then, were legal only in the hands of Catholic Church leaders. These courageous and faithful followers of Christ, opened the door for my religious freedom and they would be gratified to see bibles easily available today in drawers of hotel rooms.
(talk by Elder Todd Christofferson, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles)

The sincere testimony born by Brother Koichi Aoyagi of the Quorum of the Seventy touched my heart.

Perhaps my favorite speaker of all time is Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. I have taught many lessons in my life, in Relief Society, Young Women's, and Primary. When citing quotes to make an important point, the speaker I most often use is Brother Holland. He gives it to us straight, gets to the point, doesn't mince words and does it all with great humility. He speaks to my heart, and his closing remarks on the the Saturday session did not shrink from doing just that. In my opinion, this talk was the most pertinent and powerful message of the day.

Sunday, being Easter, was appropriately spent honoring the life, ministry, and most importantly, the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I feel a profound renewal of gratitude and debt toward my brother, Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He is risen! He is risen!

Tell it out with joyful voice.

He has burst his three days' prison;

Let the whole wide earth rejoice.

Death is conquered, man is free

Christ has won the victory.

In my entire life, I have rarely watched General Conference from beginning to end. Usually, I watch one full session per day. After two hours, I get antsy and tell myself I'll read the rest of that day's talks in the Ensign next month, which, in most cases, I do. I am different these days; I have watched the last two Conferences from beginning to end, and I hunger for more. I am not sure what to attribute it to. . . .

maturity,

a deepening need for Christ,

more time, and a keener sense of how to best spend it,

or all of the above.

Whatever it is, I really hated to see Conference end. I didn't want other media on afterwards, so I could bask in the light of the sweet messages for awhile longer. Rather than overloaded, I feel invigorated by the hours of counsel. Encouraged. Committed anew.

Lastly I want to mention something that was a complete revelation to me. The final talk of the conference was given by Neil L. Andersen. He expressed concerns, as the final speaker, that much of his material may have already been spoken by others before he would get to the podium. He said that none of the speakers are assigned subjects and the entire course of the conference is left to the direction of the Lord. Fortunately, or as divine intervention would have it, no other speaker had repeated his, or any other speaker's, material.

As a lifetime member of the LDS Church, who has heard and given innumerable Sacrament talks, all of which were on assigned subjects, I assumed that General Conference talks were carefully selected and assigned by the First Presidency. This revelation, that subjects are not assigned, makes Conference an even more meaningful and an amazing experience. Elder Andersen described it perfectly as a "spiritual symphony full of revelation and power . . . repeated themes, principle building upon principle, prophetic warnings, uplifting promises - the divine harmony is a miracle. In this conference, we have heard the mind and will of the Lord"

Amen, to that.

Happy Easter !

2010-04-02T06:00:00.009-05:00

saw these cute little ditties on a craft blog

and just had to make them.

. . . . . you know how I love working with felt.

(or maybe you don't)

it's so homey

and no edges to finish

The bunnies are fashioned after Peeps

I sure appreciate clever women

who generously share their cleverness with gals like me.

I sent the bunny banner to some special cuties

and also made them doggie and kitty eggs

filled with candy.

and of course, I had to make a banner for myself.

This time, I tried yellow peeps

It is all so fun!

******

Looking forward to General Conference

this weekend

******

I have been sewing so much lately;

I am feeling the neglect of my painting.

Some ideas are stirring, that need to be put on canvass

soon.

2010-03-31T06:00:00.021-05:00

There is an irritating bird outside my bedroom window.

At 5am this morning, I had a few choice words for him.

He was not blessed with a beautiful song;

though I certainly can't fault him for trying.

He sings just one note.

three times, pause, three more times,

over and over and over.

After 2 hours of it,I got up,

went straight to the piano;

the note, still quite fresh in my mind,

is f sharp.

f# f# f#

f# f# f#

f# f# f#

......and so on

for hours.

I need a b b gun.

f# f# f#

f# f# f#

f# f# f#

pow.

I don't want to hurt you, little bird

.....just go sing somewhere else for pete's sake

2010-03-29T06:00:00.010-05:00

the roadsides are painted blue

with the state flower,

Texas Bluebonnet

isn't it lovely?

oh, Spring . . . . . I'm so happy you are here!