Janet's Journal

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2010-10-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

Jordan's cool pumpkin

He's Home

2010-02-08T19:07:00.000-08:00

Zions

2010-02-01T11:03:00.000-08:00

We went to Zions on a little get away golfing trip with some friends. Stayed with Heidi, went shopping and ate out a lot.

"Time Flies" is an understatement of epic porportions!

2010-02-01T10:59:00.000-08:00

Jordan will return (with HONOR) from the Indepdence Missouri Mission this Friday.

The annual Pumpkin Walk

2009-11-04T20:15:00.000-08:00

Beautiful sunrise in Cache Valley

2009-11-04T20:09:00.000-08:00

Only a little over four months to go!

2009-09-21T12:06:00.000-07:00

We got a really nice message on our answering machine about how much the Mendoza family loves Elder Owens. They think he looks just like their son who is also on a mission. He does seem to fit in. Do you think, where missionaries serve, is inspired?

This guy actually served in Lenny's mission. Jordan now believes that Lenny knows everyone.

This is an excerp from Jordans letter today.  I can't tell you how happy this makes me.  I am on cloud nine.

"It seems like just last week i was packing my bags up in my room and making the decission to go on a mission. I am so glad i pulled through. Things have just worked out for me. Feelings of inadaquacy were present; now they are turning into skills and talents. One of my favorite scriptures is proverbs 3:5-6 "trust in the lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understandings, in all ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths". I have tried to stick to that through my mission."

Grandparents and grandchildren are natural allies because they have a common enemy!

2009-09-17T13:06:00.001-07:00

I have without a doubt the cutest grandkids on the planet. I got to spend the afternoon with them at the Children's Museum and then watch Audrey place soccer.

Alex wanted a wawee pop!

Glacier National Park

2009-08-30T20:19:00.000-07:00

We went on a road trip last week to Glacier National Park. Lenny and his cousin Brent golfed along the way. We spent a lot of time in the car. To pass the time we listened to a book on tape called "Wish you Well" by David Baldacci. Glacier National Park was unbelievable. I never want to eat at another restaurant again.

Walking around Silver Lake by the cabin

2009-08-04T13:31:00.000-07:00

This summer has been so incredibly beautiful I have to borrow Oscar Wilde's poem to desribe how I feel.

We Are Made One with What We Touch and See

We are resolved into the supreme air,
We are made one with what we touch and see,
With our heart's blood each crimson sun is fair,
With our young lives each springimpassioned tree
Flames into green, the wildest beasts that range
The moor our kinsmen are, all life is one, and all is change.

With beat of systole and of diastole
One grand great life throbs through earth's giant heart,
And mighty waves of single Being roll
From nerveless germ to man, for we are part
Of every rock and bird and beast and hill,
One with the things that prey on us, and one with what we kill

One sacrament are consecrate, the earth
Not we alone hath passions hymeneal,
The yellow buttercups that shake for mirth
At daybreak know a pleasure not less real
Than we do, when in some freshblossoming wood
We draw the spring into our hearts, and feel that life is good

Is the light vanished from our golden sun,
Or is this daedalfashioned earth less fair,
That we are nature's heritors, and one
With every pulse of life that beats the air?
Rather new suns across the sky shall pass,
New splendour come unto the flower, new glory to the grass.

And we two lovers shall not sit afar,
Critics of nature, but the joyous sea
Shall be our raiment, and the bearded star
Shoot arrows at our pleasure! We shall be
Part of the mighty universal whole,
And through all Aeons mix and mingle with the Kosmic Soul!.

We shall be notes in that great Symphony
Whose cadence circles through the rhythmic spheres,
And all the live World's throbbing heart shall be
One with our heart, the stealthy creeping years
Have lost their terrors now, we shall not die,
The Universe itself shall be our Immortality!.

Oscar Wilde

Missionary Update

2009-04-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

Are all Elders obsessed with their ties?

Welcome to the Church!

Jordan likes the Missouri fishing.

Jordan's family away from home.

Baby Animal Day at American Heritage Center

2009-04-12T17:01:00.000-07:00

Chicks, ducklings, lambs, calves, bunnies, and beautiful children.

Happy Easter!

Old Dog New Tricks

2009-03-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

This is how much water I swallowed while learning to flip turn. But I have my version of it down to the point where I have knocked about 10 minutes off my swim mile time.

Jordan's trip to Nauvoo

2009-03-24T12:15:00.001-07:00

"We went to Carthage Jail. The Prophet and Hyrum and others were here. I knew it. The feeling was intense. We had the tour. I was able to put my fingers on the bullet holes that entered the room and struck Hyrum and Joseph. It really was amazing. He lived great and died great; and will forever be known a great leader and the prophet of the restoration."

"The temple has six stories. I was on each of them. After the sealing was over we walked arond and went everywhere. When we went down to the baptistry. They wanted us to be witnesses! It was neat because ususally missionaries don't get to go; none have for over four years. So it was very cool! They knew we were comming and let us have free reign, almost anywhere we wanted. The sealing room was so neat! I don't even remember the last time I was in one; when we were sealed. I felt that our family really was going to be with each other forever. You are my family and I am a part of you. I am so glad that we have such grand saving ordinances!

In the temple they have an ancient apron which is very neat. They have all the original keys to the temple. They have Joseph Smith's sword that he used when he was in the batallion. He etiched his name into it."

Lead in the Golden Years or Thank Goodness for Modern Medical Technology or We just got a $200/month Raise

2009-03-18T11:58:00.000-07:00

This is a prostRate position. A position you want to take when you learn you are a candidate for prostate (no R) surgery.

The following picture is a prostate gland (the least explicite on I could find). When you are 61, chances are your prostate gland will become enlarged. This makes pharmacutical companies happy because the meds you have to take (Avodart and Floxmax - frequently advertised) to allow you to void less often than every 30 minutes cost about $200/month. Alas, these meds do not work when the prostate continues to get bigger. So, Monday Lenny went in to have prostate reduction surgery. It is a fairly simple nonincisive proceedure. That is why I got a little concerned when the surgery went about an hour and half over schedule. It turns out that while probing around, with a magnifying tool, they discovered a golf ball sized calcium deposit in the bladder. The stone was just large enough to elude the grasp of the apparatus being used. Four different instruments were used to try and remove it. As a last resort they would have made an incision. The doctor said, "I wasn't about to not remove it". Thankfully, they were finally able to break up the stone and now Lenny can write his name in the snow or as the doc put it, " Pee like a race horse". Lenny commented, "I wondered where I lost that ball."

Cool Stuff

2009-03-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

Homemade bread

North Logan Sunset

Maui was nice but...

2009-03-09T16:07:00.000-07:00

So, it was my ideal to go to Maui before Nikki and Noah went.

We snorkled at this private beach and saw

every color of tropical fish you can imagine.

This is a picture of a whale. We actual could see them spout and dive under with their tails in the air.

The beautiful coast line.

A wind surfer.

At the aquarium, you walk through a tunnel and watch stingrays and sharks swim around you.

This is the championship golf course that inspired the trip. Lenny had a fun time golfing there.

We had a great time, but to be honest, Lenny and I are not travelers. We would just as soon go to the cabin. Sometimes when I would be looking at the surf I would think, "where is the pine smell?"

Missouri Sightings

2009-03-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Jordan and his companion Elder Johnson

Jordan really likes Elder Johnson

Jordans district

Jordan says, "Sheep on the right side - goats on the left".

I guess missionaries will teach anybody. There is a special place in the telestial kingdom (real close to outer darkness) for the people who create and promote McDonalds food.

A Day Out With Grandma Owens

2009-02-19T21:46:00.000-08:00

Jeff and Josie are on vacation so I got to tend the grandkids for three days. I wish I was Mary Poppins. My grandkids deserve a magic babysitter. Of course I'm not magic but I try and make the time I spend with them memorable. We went to the Children's Museum today. It was noisy and crowded with school children who were rude and hyper and not nearly as cute as my grandkids.

We went to the top the the Church building to view the city.

Audrey operating the crane

Alex sitting in the pilots seat of a helicopter

And of course we frosted sugar cookies with the cousins.

The night before I was to be at Jeff's home there were winter storm warnings on TV. I got up and left at 5:30 so I would be sure and arrive on time. The warnings did not do the storm justice. When I got into the canyon I decided it was too severe to continue. I turned around and decided to go home and wait it out. But then other cars were going through so I decided to follow them. I could only go 20 miles an hour. The wind was blowing and visability was zero. It was terrifying. I'm glad I know the canyon well. I knew if I could make it to the summit I would be all right. All I can say is, "Just try and keep a grandma from a date with her grandkids".

"We talk of the Second Coming; half the world has never heard of the first." -- Oswald J. Smith

2009-02-11T16:04:00.000-08:00

Jordan and his comp meeting Christ at the Second Coming.

Jordan looking cool at a covered bridge.

Jordan says, " Don't tract into dogs like this. They don't like guys in suits -

1st time I had to run. Chain is on. . .but not in ground.

What is Hump Day?

2009-01-29T10:24:00.000-08:00

I think it means that you have been out on your mission a year and like a camel that stores important nutrients in it's hump you have stored important learning experiences in your book of life like: testimony, love for God the Father and Jesus, an understanding of the plan of salvation, love for the Church, and love for home and family. I can't believe how much I miss Jordan some days. He still has to fill up another hump (year 2009) but if times keeps going as fast as the past year, he'll be home in a flash.

It is a great blessing to have a missionary.

Hurrah for Israel!

2009-01-18T20:12:00.000-08:00

They are so good together

We drove up to Boise this weekend - a very long and boring drive - but so worth it.

Noah was baptized, confirmed, and ordained a priest in the Aronic Priesthood. I can see a new light radiating from him or is it that he just lights up around Nikki? My favorite story of Noah's conversion is, when the Elders called and asked Nikki if there was anything they should know about him before they started teaching him, she said, "Yes. He is really cute".

Nikki made dinner for us on Sunday. MMMMM MMMMM MMMMM

She is a gourmet cook. We had steamed clams, sturgeon, mashed potatoes and yams, bread, brocolli, and bannana cream pie. I felt like I was on the cooking channel as we ate in her Pottery Barn like kitchen.

Audrey is FIVE!

2009-01-01T19:30:00.000-08:00

Audrey at Chuck E Cheese. (The most obnoxious place on the planet)

Oh well - the kids had a great time.

I'll be home for Christmas

2009-01-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

At the Cabin playing WII

Digging the snow cave

Josie, Heidi, and Nikki

Inside the snow cave

The snow was this deep!

The Cabin at Christmas. Thanks for this beautiful picture Heidi.

Extreme Excellence!

2008-12-16T21:43:00.000-08:00

This picture needs no caption. How can you explain perfection!

Tis the Season

2008-12-16T21:29:00.000-08:00

Jordan and his companion at the Maryville Branch Christmas party.

Jordan's first Christmas away.

Katies Kute Kids

2008-11-16T20:15:00.000-08:00

I got to tend Katies super cute kids Sunday night. I guess Ryan should get a little credit for their cuteness since he was involved in their creation. Luka is absolutly darling and the fact that he had a screaming, throw up, melt down, for about 45 minutes does not make me love him less. That's how cute he is! Spanky ate his binky and there was nothing Lenny and I could do to console him. We even tried driving around the block.

Frosting cookies is my favorite baby sitting activity.

If you come to Grandma Owens you get to play with the hat bag.

We did a treasure hunt, played jacks, old maid, and pick up sticks. If I could just bottle their energy and sell it we would not have to worrry about a national energy crisis.

“Grandchildren are God's way of compensating us for growing old.”

2008-11-16T19:53:00.000-08:00

I got to spend Friday evening with Alex while Jeff, Lenny and Rashan went to the Aggie game. If you come to dinner on Friday lately you get all beef weinners since Lenny bought a ton of them.

I know everyone will think I am saying this because I am a Grandma but honestly, Alex is unbelievable cute and sweet. I had so much fun playing baseball, dressups, puzzels, and watching cartoons. The love a grandmother has is quite astonishing.

Faith precedes the miracle!

2008-11-11T15:14:00.000-08:00

I had lunch with some incredible women. We ate at Paradise Bakery. Kind of ironic because life has not been exactly a paradise for them. They are Steel Magnolias. They have all had a huge impact on me as I have watched how they handle mortality. I love each one of them "more than my luggage."

LaRue is passionate about life. She is nursing Brent through chemo and getting a real perspective on the refiners fire.

Karla has done really hard things but always remains tenaciously cheerful. (Just a little side note. One of the most fun things I have ever done is watch Steel Magnolias with Karla.)

Heidi has a demanding job with liability around every corner. I like her common sense approach to life.

Julie is learning to get back up when life knocks her down. It isn't easy to be a single mom but Julie is doing it and going to school to boot. She has goals and is moving forward.

Visitors

2008-11-11T14:40:00.000-08:00

Halloween night we had visitors on our door step. Monica Streeter George, Chris (her husband) and their three little spooks. We had a spontanious all beef weiner dinner and even got to read some stories. Monica and Chris are really, really good parents. It is amazing to listen how patiently Monica talks to her energetic, all boy kids.

Isaac

Adam

Jason

Standing with the Brethern

2008-11-09T21:54:00.000-08:00

Wanting to do something, but not able to be physically there, I sent some money to the protecting the family organization that supported Proposition 8. I have heard the opponents are now going to dig up anything bad that they can find about donators. It sort of reminds me how Satan threw a temper tantrum when Moses would not worship him. Let them have at it. My only regret is that I did not donate more money!

Bruce R. McConkie:

The Church is like a great cravan -- organized, prepared, following an appointed course, with its captains of tens and captain of hundreds all in place.

What does it matter if a few barking dogs snap at the heels of the weary travelers? Or that predators claim those few who fall by the way? The caravan moves on.

Is there a ravine to cross, a miry mud hole to pull through, a steep grade to climb? So be it. The oxen are strong and the teamsters wise. The caravan moves on.

Are there storms that rage along the way, floods that wash away the bridges, deserts to cross, and rivers to ford? Such is life in this fallen sphere. The caravan moves on.

Ahead is the celestial city the eternal Zion of our God, where all who maintian their position in the caravan shall find food and drink and rest. Thank God that the caravan moves on!

Transfer

2008-10-31T05:31:00.000-07:00

Jordan is in Maryville Missouri

I got a call from a Sister Tubb yesterday. She said she and her husband picked Jordan up in Clinton and took him to Maryville. I wondered why he had been trasferred so quickly from his last area. She said that Maryville has a college with 150 Indian students and one of them is investigating the church. Good Luck Jordan!

In his last letter he said he gave a talk and now he knows what it means to have "the power of God unto the convincing of men". He has grown leaps and bounds.

Blessing of supporting a missionary

2008-10-09T21:17:00.000-07:00

A great way to begin a recession.

What a day this has been!

2008-10-09T13:46:00.000-07:00

Heidi and I had a great day Tuesday October 7, 2008

We got up early, exercised and then headed for Salt Lake (talking the whole way) where we took in the Body Worlds exhibit at Library Square. Go see this if you have a chance. We came away with new prespective, gradtitude and awe for our bodies - how they are created - how they work - how they fit together. Thanks to the body donners and the artists who made the exhibit possible.

We had lunch with Jeff. He is so fun to listen too. He talked about politics, the financial crisis, and life in general. He argued a landmark case in front of the state supreme court the next day (after being tutoured by Nikki who does it frequently in Idaho) and won, even getting a little news time as the lead story that night.

We got to see Audrey in her bride costume!

We drove through Katies neighborhood to see if we could recognize her home from the pots she posted about on her front porch. What a cool house she has. We loved the floorplan and the way she has decorated.

Swiftly Fly the Years

2008-09-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Heidi 25 Years

Indian Brothers

2008-09-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

This is a poem Jordan sent me in a letter the other day. This is the unedited verson. He has been transfered to Clinton Missouri. It is so small I could barely find it on the map. He is always happy.

Jordan asked me to send him his adoption story. As I was putting information together I found this picture of Mohan. He is our other Indian son that died before he came to America. He was sealed to us the same time Jordan was. According to Joseph Smith I will have the opportunity to raise this son. He was too good to have to live very long in this world.

Celebrate!

2008-08-24T21:57:00.000-07:00

Lenny is 61 and Jeff is 30. Two old guys celebrated their birthdays by going to "The Roof" for dinner.

Darling Family!

Darling couple!

Darling grandchildren!

Amazing photo!

Have a nice day!

2008-08-20T07:12:00.000-07:00

My old dishes are the kind that chip. I found corelle dishes in this cheerful red paisley pattern for everyday use.

LaRue sent me an email wishing me a nice day so I think I will have one.

New dishes and a french manicure will help out!

Only $7.00 at the local mall. What a mood lifter.

Olathe Kansas are you Ready for Elder Owens!

2008-08-14T22:55:00.000-07:00

What is Jordan doing on a bike on a picnic table?

Jordan loves the elders.

Oh What Do You Do in the Summer Time?

2008-08-14T22:43:00.000-07:00

This has been the most incredibly busy summer. These are houses that I have closed on

this month.

$295,000

$299,000

$188,500

Empty Nesting

2008-08-14T22:33:00.000-07:00

Lenny has taken up golf again to off set empty nest syndrome.

Here he is ready to play in a Wells Fargo Tournament

Spanky is waiting for his dog trainer to arrive.

Mother Load

2008-07-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

We struck Gold last night.

We got to have dinner with Faye Gold, her husband Duane, and their daughter Michelle.

Donna made the best dinner I have had this year maybe even this decade. She is a great blessing in our lives and without a doubt the best thing that has ever happened to Dad.

Visiting

2008-07-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

Alex loved riding on Grandpa's tractor

Audrey is a breath of fresh air - pure innocence - without gile - a little lady.

I love to play paper dolls with her.

No Concidences

2008-07-03T06:37:00.000-07:00

Jordan asked me to send him a copy of his patriarchal blessing. It talks about how it was not by chance that he came to our family and had the opportunity to learn about Heavenly Father's Plan. It was because of righteous choices in the pre-existence that Jordan is not in the street scene below.

It is because of righteous choices here on earth that Jodan is where he is today.

"You will be able to touch the hearts of many, many who do not understand the true meaning of the gospel many who do not understand their relationship with Father. Because of your unique circumstances, you will be able to show them the way and help them to find their hope in this world of great challenge."

Man's Best Friend

2008-06-24T15:44:00.000-07:00

Spanky is our Christmas poodle and Spikes replacement. He likes people and ran after some walkers while he was out in the yard. When Lenny called him, he ran back in front of a car and was hit. Below is a picture of how the vet pinned his leg back together to the tune of $1,500. After six weeks the pins came out the other day but I don't think Spanky learned a darn thing. He still likes people. I don't see it. I would rather be with Spanky than most people I know:)

A Little Slice of Heaven

2008-06-23T20:01:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in Yellowstone this weekend. We saw a lot of Buffalo.

This field of flowers was breathtaking. It is just up from the river by our cabin. The squiggly purple line is flowers. This picture doesn't do this scene justice.

Daniel all outfiitted to get skunked.

Why do you think Heidi is manning the backyard hose? Because Lenny decided to burn the dead logs behind our cabin and the fire was alarmingly hot and the potential for spreading was making us very nervous!

Too Close for Comfort!/ Obviously in the Lord's Hands.

2008-06-16T13:42:00.000-07:00

Jordan said the tornado that touched down in Manhatten was about a mile from his home. He spent the night under the stairs listening to the storm howl. He has been involved in the clean up. He power-sawed trees and helped people muck out. Again, he thinks it is exciting but then that is not his expensive car that was thrown around.

Jordan said that hearts were softened and miracle baptisms took place.

Only a ninteen year old can live through a tornado and miracles and still be silly.

I'm glad he is having fun. Real life will begin soon enough.

Update on Elder JORDO!

2008-06-10T17:15:00.000-07:00

Jordan wrote that he is enjoying the life threatening weather (floods and tornadoes) that he is experiencing in Kansas. He thinks it is exciting. He hasn't really told us how bad it is, only hinted. He loves the work and has scheduled a couple more baptisms in a week. In every letter he talks about how hard it will be to be transferred and is already dreading coming home. He is so happy and so that makes us so happy.

Jordan's first baptism. Samantha Pulinski.

Jordan is looking good in his new tie.

Jordan has really connected with Louis the lady in the black. He hopes she will be baptized.

The Field is White and Ready to Harvest!

My Blog's Cuter than your Blog

2008-05-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

I help with storytime every Friday at the North Logan Library. We sing a little song about a bear who says "My paws bigger than your paw" - hence the name of this post. Nikki told me my blog was a pioneer blog so I had Heidi help me spruce it up today. Thanks Heidi.

Take Care of your Knees Please!

2008-05-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

Nikki had her knee fixed today. Nine years ago, before her mission she had a snowboarding accident and tore her ACL. We thought she would have to delay her mission and have it operated on but when she went in for her preop exam the doctor said it was stable and didn't need surgery.

About a month ago she was playing tennis and she tweeked her knee again. This time the doctor said she would have to have it fixed or she was looking at a knee replacement down the road. The surgery took a long time. I kept waiting for the doctor to come out and tell me how it had gone. Finally after two hours I asked the nurse what was going on. They had just finished up and the doctor came out and talked to me. He told me that when they got inside the knee there was more damage than they had seen on the MRI. He had to sew the miniscus in two places and that is why the surgery took so long. He said the knee was stable though and had a good range of motion. She should heal nicely.

These beautiful flowers were on the counter when Nikki came home. She has an awsome roomate. Thanks Britany.

It is great to have our own private RN. I definatley want Heidi to take care of me when I am sick.

Nikki ordered won-ton soup from PF Changs and Noah went and picked it up. He has been a gofer today. He has filled prescriptions, lifted, and spoon fed Nikki.

Britany and Mike. Britany also had lasagna ordered for all of us for dinner.

2008-05-11T18:09:00.001-07:00

You Are Cayenne Pepper

You are very over the top and a bit overwhelming.
You have a fiery personality, and you can give anyone a good jolt.
You can easily take things up a couple notches, no matter what crowd you're running with.

What Spice Are You?

Joy! Joy! Joy!

2008-05-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

It has been a most joyous weekend! We just got through talking with Jordan. He sounds so happy. His energy and spirit sailed across the miles and filled us with love, as we heard his voice. It is no wonder that of all the billions of children in India God chose him to be placed in a situation where he could learn the gospel. He is a sweet and faithful servant. The real spiritual Jordan has emerged from the cacoon of childhood opposition. What a great Mother's Day gift. I know what it means to achingly miss someone, but am so glad he is there.Saturday Dad, David, LaRue and I went up to Preston to bury Aunt Nellie Brough Harris. It was a glorious day and we enjoyed the rural calendar like scenery of Cache Valley in the spring. It was a glorious occasion. Dear Aunt Nellie was imprisioned in her body and could not speak or commuicate in anyway for eight long years. She sat in a wheel chair and was dependant on the staff of the rest home for her every need. We petitioned God through prayer and priesthood blessings that she could be released and he has finally heard.

It was most enjoyable to listen to her children and grandchildren speak about the farm in Randlett. It catapulted me back to childhood. What an adventure it was to go to the farm. Nellie was the ultimate home maker. She did everything -raised four children, sewed like a professional, raised a garden, canned everything from the garden, raised chickens and sold the eggs, made the best meals for everyone who showed up at dinner time, worked in the chuch and a myriad of other tasks. She blessed the lives of of everyone who knew her.

Loye her oldest daughter said," I didn't know for the longest time that you could buy clothes at a store.

She used to maked huge breakfasts with hot cereal, pancakes, eggs, sausage. Sitting down to one of these amazing spreads Uncle Abert would say, "Hell Nell, is this all you've got?"

The older picture is how she looked. The younger pictures is how she looks now.

God runs quite a beauty shop. It is called the resurrection.

After the funeral we headed home to celebrate Nikki's birthday with the first hamburger cook out of the summer. It was good to have the house filled up with the people I love most.

A darling apron for Mother's Day. Thanks Heidi!

A gorgeous hanging basket to adorn the porch. Thanks Jeff and Jose.

(If anyone has any tips on how to keep it thriving please comment.)

Lovely antique sugar bowl and matching pitcher. Thanks Nikki.

The inside of the card says , " Moms know how to make the best of everything!

This card is hilarious because, Jeff used to have some rabbits he fed. We decided to kill and eat them. At the dinner table Jeff said, "I wonder if this is Cottontail or Bosco." Thanks for the laugh Nikki.

Sunrise Sunset Happy Birthday Nikki

2008-05-07T19:12:00.000-07:00

What could be in this present? A little trip down memory lane.

Women's Conference

2008-05-06T05:23:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to learn that President Monson would be the concluding speaker at Women's Conference. It was thrilling to hear 20,000 women sing, We Thank Thee Oh God for a Prophet as he entered the Marriotte Center. He spoke about making each day we have here on earth special. As he left, after his speech, we all remained seated and quiet, he stopped and spoke with a woman in a wheel chair patting her on the shoulder. That is so tipically tender of President Monson. He then turned and waved and 20,000 women waved back. What a witness was born that he is a prophet of God.

It takes a lot of luggage to sustain a two night get-away for Women's Conference. We stayed at a very nice Marriotte hotel at Thankgiving Point. The weather was freezing and the wind blew making it even colder. It finally warmed up the last day and we were able to sit on the lawn at the Marriotte Center and eat lunch which included the Y's famous brownies and hot spiced almonds from a vender there. We did get into all the classes we wanted too and heard principles about motherhood that are taught only through the church. Heidi and Josie went to a lecture entitled: Cherish That Role That Is So Uniquely Yours: Parenting for Young Mothers. Here we are in the Wilkinson Center ballroom listening to a lecture entitled "Good, Better, Best: Simplifing and Uncluttering Our Lives. I learned things that I will never forget and will help me choose the best things to do with my time and means. Josie is wearing her new spring top we bought on our shopping trip. We ate dinner at Good Wood an excellent BBQ place.
It was great to be together and be taught and reminded about the things that matter most. Heidi and Josie are really wonderful people to be with. We had fun staying up late and talking about everything under the sun.

Visiting Grandma

2008-04-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

Audrey likes projects at Grandma Owens -- paper dolls, coloring, cutting and stickers. Alex is a happy two year old.Fun to be in Spanky's kennel for just a minute!

Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom

2008-04-14T20:53:00.000-07:00

I have read this book twice in the past 24 hours. It is extremely enlightening - like a vision. I don't want to go to sleep. I just want to read it over and over again. Who is this guy anyway?
James L. Ferrell was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. He graduated from Brigham Young University with degrees in economics and philosophy and went on to receive a law degree from Yale Law School. He serves as managing director of The Arbinger Institute, a renowned management consulting firm and scholarly consortium that specializes in peacemaking. He has authored several books and has taught and advised leaders of corporations, governments, and organizations of all kinds in many countries around the world. He has served in many capacities in the Church, and currently serves in a stake presidency. He and his wife, Jackie, are the parents of five children.

No explanation for this picture needed.

2008-04-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

TWO GRANDMAS or Reality Check!

2008-04-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

Grandma Owens had a sister - Aunt Ruth and they used to tease each other relentlessly. When Karla posted this picture of herself in her new dress and shoes (which I think ,by the way, are really cute) it reminded me of our Grandma Collins.
So Karla I hope you take this in the spirit of a Ruth/Maxene relationship.

Nikki in her brunch finery.

2008-04-01T17:21:00.000-07:00

See nikki-owens.blogspot.com. Just as a side note I did make the dress:)

Pay Day!

2008-03-31T11:16:00.000-07:00

Hey dad! whats up. I wrote to everybody in moms main letter. but i have a minute and thought i would write to you. How are you? You are the man of the house now! dad i have learned so much from you. Good preisthood principals i will use throuought my life. I am so glad i could from the time i was a hairy ball from india to now me being on a mission; to be raised with you leading my way. You have always been my hero and will always be. I look up to you and the things you believe in. You are a great father source for comfort and love. I have enjoyed playing golf with you so much. I am really going to miss that. especially when we were just getting into the swing of things. I am grateful for all those good times we have had. the sweetest thing about being on a father and son activity is being there with you; my dad. Even if we rode up on the fourwheeler and came back the same night. It was so worth it to me. etched memories i have of that. I plan on going on alot of fishing trips with you and talking on the bank. i love you so much dad and would never change anything! Love you sonElder Owens

Geeze Knees

2008-03-31T08:40:00.001-07:00

I have been walking Spanky around my block – 2 ½ miles every day. My knees were killing me so I thought of this brilliant solution. I bought a scooter. I can walk up 2300 North and coast all the way down 1600 East and 2400 North then scoot along 1200 back home. Lenny says he has never seen or heard of another 56 year old woman on a scooter. It is exhilarating and my knees feel much better. Spanky loves it because he has to run and he gets the cardio he needs.

You should be so lucky!

2008-03-24T15:06:00.000-07:00

You can't choose your relatives but you can choose your neighbors. I am so glad we chose to sell the lot next door to our good friends John and Marianna Larsen. Nikki calls their house "The Smart House". It really is one of the most elegent yet functional homes in Cache Valley and I ought to know because I see a lot of them. It has made the value of homes on our street do nothing but go up. But one of the best thing about our neighbors is they invite us to dinner and a movie every now and then.Marianna loves holidays and she decorates to the max. This is her Easter table setting.
The Easter tree center piece.
The fireplace decorations add to the ambiance.
Every nook and cranny is decorated. Marianna is a good cook, a good conversationalist, really clever at decorating, and a good friend. What an escape to go next door and step into the Larsen fantasy world and spend a few hours. Thanks John and Marianna. You are a reminder that its OK to enjoy life!

Over Mountain or Plain or Sea

2008-03-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

Jordan and his companion Elder Vonniederhausern

Cherubs ?

2008-03-12T05:54:00.000-07:00

Don't let this angelic poise fool you. They are scrubbed and polished and ready for primary and the nursery but would have nothing to do with it. Their father was all too ready to return home and play hooky with them at their first wimper, leaving a disgruntled nursery leader with a bad image of my grandchildren who "made the other children cry too!"

The Big Three O

2008-03-10T04:58:00.000-07:00

It's time to party! Alex never was one to turn down dessert.

Daniel is 30. We celebrated with a lasagna dinner and friends and family. Nikki came from Boise and Jeff brought the kids for a sleep over with Grandma Owens.

Nikke made some of her famous cupcakes in ice cream cones. Heidi bought an ice cream cake. Get it? The cake was ice cream and the ice cream cones were cake.

In the arms of the Lord

2008-03-04T22:28:00.000-08:00

Jordan wrote me that he was "in the arms of the Lord". Here he is in the arms of his mission president.
Here he is in the arms of his companions. His companion is from Hyde Park just up the road from our house. Jordan went to high school with him. He said, "He is the MAN!"

He writes: "I am doing great and I am following all the rules even getting up on time. (This is evidence that God is still a God of miracles). I am the coolest companion ever! Everybody wants me! I love it here and being on my own! I'm glad I made this decision! . . . I am going fishing today with a recent investigator. We are going to fish and talk about the church! I planned it all out! I am so excited. He is the same age as me and his name is Nick! He wants to know the truth. His parents are anal and crazy and it's tough for him. So I made this activity and will hopefully bring him in! (Jordan will love him into the church. He is very compassionate. He always looks for ways to include people on the fringes.)

I have edited his emails. He types them fast because they only have a certain amount of time and he wants to write everyone personally. He does put an exclamation point after every sentence. He always expresses his love and appreciation to all of us and names everyone Heidi, Nikki , Jeff, Daniel, Josie and the kids. He says, " I love you all so much and hope I can make you proud." He bears his testimony. "Joseph Smith was a man of God and Jesus Christ died for all mankind. Never forget that." He is very caught up in the work and sounds happier than he has ever been. "The best two years."

...and also see that ye bridle all your passions

2008-03-01T09:47:00.000-08:00

And, as I, the Lord, in the beginning cursed the land, even so in the last days have I blessed it, in its time, for the use of my saints, that they may partake the fatness thereof.

(Doctrine and Covenants Section 61:17)

Americans across all age groups, genders and races are getting fatter. A full 66 percent of U.S. adults were overweight or obese in 2003 and 2004, and if the trend continues, 75 percent of U.S. adults will be overweight by the year 2015. As well, sixteen percent of U.S. children and adolescents are overweight and 34 percent are at risk of becoming overweight, according to federal government figures. (Yahoo News, July 18, 2007)

Obesity, despite assertions by critics, is becoming the norm. It is likely to continue to increase, and if nothing is done, it will soon become the leading preventable cause of death in the United States, say researchers.

I have recently discovered this great healthy treat! EDAMAME

Edamame is a green vegetable more commonly known as a soybean, harvested at the peak of ripening right before it reaches the "hardening" time. The word Edamame means "Beans on Branches," and it grows in clusters on bushy branches. To retain the freshness and its natural flavor, it is parboiled and quick-frozen. In East Asia, the soybean has been used for over two thousand years as a major source of protein. Edamame is consumed as a snack, a vegetable dish, used in soups or processed into sweets. As a snack, the pods are lightly boiled in salted water, and then the seeds are squeezed directly from the pods into the mouth with the fingers.

Calories
125.0
Protein
12.1
Carbohydrates
13.1
Fat
3.6
Ash
1.7
Calcium
9.3
Phosphorus
180.0
Iron
2.7
Sodium
5.0
Vitamin A
130.0
Vitamin U1
0.31
Vitamin C
40.0

Spark of Divinity

2008-02-25T05:41:00.000-08:00

I admit that I made all my kids posters assignments when they were in school. I remember Jeff came home from work late one night and I told him to just paste a few things on the poster here, here, and there to appease my conscience and make it seem like he had done some of the work. Heidi was sitting in English class receiving a poster assignment when the teacher pulled out a couple of posters to use for examples of what she wanted and Heidi realized that they were “posters that Jeff and Nikki had turned in years earlier that neither one of them had touched.” I justify my involvement because I think making a poster for an English class is not relevant to the subject and it is next to impossible for a teenager to find the money, transportation, equipment, and supplies to make a really cool poster and I just really like doing art projects.

There is something about color and design that is exhilarating. Even as a child having a box of Crayola crayons and a blank piece of paper was an adventure. An art easel with a tray of poster paints and one of your fathers old shirts was a delightful gift. Colored pencils and magic markers are implements of shear pleasure. A sewing machine, material, and quilt block patterns are stock for hours of therapeutic escape. What is it about creating something artistic that is so healing? Why would we spend tedious hours piecing a quilt when Bed, Bath and Beyond sells comparable ones for ridiculously low prices? It is the divinity in us.

In a talk entitiled, “We are Creators” Mary Ellen Smoot said, “I marvel when I think of this world so rich in beauty, so perfect in function. This world was created by Jesus Christ under the direction of our Heavenly Father. Creation is one of the characteristics that defines God. He takes matter without form and molds it into stars, planets, and solar systems. “Worlds without number have I created,” He tells us.
Brothers and sisters, we are children of God. Shouldn’t we be about our Father’s business? Shouldn’t we be creators as well?”
Well that’s a lot of rhetoric. I just wanted to post this picture of the quilt I gave Heidi when she got married. She puts it on the guest bed and when we go down to stay with her I remember how much I like the colors and how much I enjoyed making each block.

Jordan had to read 25 books when he was in the fourth grade. We did it together. Here he is with book report posters which we obviously did together. Isn't he cute in that gawky, geeky, awkward, school age stage.

My Happy Place

2008-02-22T14:07:00.000-08:00

Painted on the arched doorway of a bowling alley, in the basement, of one of the multi-million dollar homes that we toured in the St. George home parade, was this saying "EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE A HAPPY PLACE". With yet another snowstorm pelting Cache Valley causing gray, cold, wet, and blizzard like conditions, I decided to visit my HAPPY PLACE today and bought this darling serving stand. The rush of epinephrine (or whatever the body releases under such pleasant circumstances) as I first discovered the stand, decided to buy it, and then made my way to cache register, will be tonic enough to hold at bay any bouts of seasonal depression, I figure for about a half a week, when I again will have to go back to the DI for another fix.

Pottery Barn quality if you ask me! I think it would look so classy with some of Nikki's cupcakes, or lemon tarts on it but they are so not on my diet. Hence the fruit.
These jackets are two of my favorite and most prized purchases. The photo doesn't do the colors justice.The Logan DI. My HAPPY PLACE:)
This donation bag from the 1940s features the beehive, symbol of industry for the Church Welfare plan, as well as one of the stated goals of the Desert Industries; "Help others to help themselves." Photographer: Holger Marius Larsen.

One of the primary purposes of the Deseret Industries was "to set up, in so far as it might be possible, a system under which the curse of idleness would be done away with."

I figure I am helping myself and not being idle when I support my local DI:)

The only thing that would have made the day better is if my DI shopping buddy Karla (my sister) could have been with me!

The Greatest Generation

2008-02-13T00:33:00.000-08:00

Only a dad with a tired face,

Coming home from the daily race,

Toiling and striving from day to day,

Facing whatever may come his way,

Glad in his heart that his own rejoice

To see him come home and to hear his voice.

Only a dad, but he gives his all,

Smoothing the way for his children small,

Doing with courage so stern and grim

The deeds that his father did for him.

These are the lines that for him I pen,

Only a dad--but the best of men.

My dad is 82 on February 14th. Happy Birthday Dad!

My Dad has always been handsome and a member of "The Greatest Generation". He has been a tireless worker. He was a school teacher and later a principal but he always had part time jobs like selling shoes, World Book, putting in sprinklers, and pulling up milk in the grocery stores. And he kept an immaculate yard and bountiful garden without any weeds. He has spent countless hours in Church service, serving in some pretty high profile positions.

One thing that I have always known in this crazy world of ups and downs is that my Father loved my Mother, they loved God and kept his commandments, and that they loved us children. I felt that so sure and strong. Their love and commitment to Christ's teachings was as sure and constant as the north star (to coin a phrase from President Hinckley). They created a stable home of solid values when social mores were being buffeted by the Beatles, flower children, drugs, free love, Vietnam, civil rights chaos, and a miriade of other evils that subtley and boldly infiltrated our culture during the 60's and 70's. I had the unequaled blessing of knowing who I was and what God expected of me (Fiddler on the Roof).

The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.

How beautiful are the words of our prophets. When the Proclamation on the Family first came out, I was a little surprised that they would speak out on such common everyday knowledge. But I have been sheltered and have come to realize that the way I was raised is now not the norm for an alarming number of children.

A quote by Jeffery Holland from "The Hands of the Fathers" makes me so grateful for my wonderful father: "I suppose no book I have read in recent months has alarmed me more than a work entitled Fatherless America. In this study the author speaks of "fatherlessness" as "the most harmful demographic trend of this generation," the leading cause of damage to children. It is, he is convinced, the engine driving our most urgent social problems, from poverty to crime to adolescent pregnancy to child abuse to domestic violence. Among the principal social issues of our time is the flight of fathers from their children's lives."

THANK YOU DAD FOR ALWAYS BEING THERE FOR US!

I asked Dad what advice he would give us after 82 years of life experience and this is what he said: "Stay close to the gospel. Pay your tithing. Read the scriptures. And most importantly, spend time with your children.

We had a little dinner at Chillies to do some celebrating. It was frustrating and hilarious because some of us are almost as deaf as Dad is. Amidst the noise and confusion of the restraunt we were yelling, "WHAT - WHAT - DID YOU HEAR WHAT HE SAID? - WHAT- WHAT:)

Picture Perfect

2008-02-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

A family picture is a project. Find a time when the whole family will be together. That can be tricky with parts in Boise, North Salt Lake, and Hurricane (opposite ends of the spectrum). Find a photographer willing to work after 6:00 on Saturday night. Decide the dress code and color. i.e. casual, jeans, black and biege. Make sure everyone knows the address of the studio. Who will ride with who in what car. Make sure you take your cell phone to direct the car behind you and the one coming from the east part of town. Pay a $49.00 sitting fee. Get everyone situated on the set. Some will stand on phone books and some with arthritic knees will kneel on phones books. Try to get a sick baby to smile. Have kleenexes ready to wipe tears. Make all kinds of ridiculous noises to make the baby smile. After numerous shots amidst sarcastic comments about not being photogenic the photographer thinks he may have gotten a "good one." A few days later look at the electronic proofs. There is not a really "good one" of everyone. So through the magic of modern photo technology, the one smiling baby image is superimposed on the best picture of the smiling everyone else. And what a bargin! It only costs $30.00 to superimpose the baby and $25.00 to change the blue shirts to black. Two hundred dollars later you have a perfect family picture. It was worth the effort! We will not be all together again for two years.

Jordan's Letter

2008-02-09T05:14:00.000-08:00

I am posting this letter from Jordan. I will not post all of his letters but this one is especially cute and made us so happy. He really puts an exclamation point after almost every sentence. Ben King is one of his good friends who came home from the MTC and now is back. Rajin is a little deaf Indian friend who lived next to us in Kaysville. Scott and Jadin are his really good friends from Sky View and Dev is his bosom buddy ( who is getting ready to go on a mission because of Jordans influence I believe.) Elder Bennion is also a friend from high school. At this point we live for the mail to come on Friday to hear how he is doing. I am thrilled and so grateful that he likes the MTC. Jordan has always loved being with people and having friends around him 24/7.

Mom & Dad
I am doing my laundry today, well actually right now. It's not so bad here anymore. But breakfast is still nasty. I would do anything for one of your famous breakfasts Dad. The last two days here have been great. I think I can do this now. I can now bring somebody closer to Christ. I have mastered the first "discussion" (We call them lessons now). I took a long time but it is worth it. You would be so amazed with what I am learning. We had a super Tuesday last night and President Costa of the seventy came. The Spirit was so strong. I am doing swell. Everywhere I go I carry my backpack full of books and scriptures, my planner, and the Spirit! It is an awsome feeling to be worthy enough to have these feelings.
Today I become an old guy. New load of elders today! Hurray! I talk to Rajan, Scott and Jadin everyday. Ben King is here. I had a party in my room lastnight. The chips and dip lasted 2 minutes. The sandals you sent are way to big and heavy - but perfect. I still think about you everyday! You need to get me more pictures! How is my Dev doing? I really miss that kid. I miss my neice and nephew so much! How is Spanky! I miss him chewing my toes down to the the bone!
My zone is great. They are very nice and we share a lot. I have 2 giant Tongans who live next to me. They teach me their language. They scare me sometimes. It's kind of like living at home because of Elder Bennion.
I am going to the temple today at 1. I am excited. Always a good feeling! I need more white socks. P-day is great! My laundry is done now and folded. My companion has the same black socks and we shared the same dark load, so we just split them. All my roomies say I take too long of showers . I think its funny.
I'm glad you are doing so good & things are working out. We had a lot of good times together. Wow that is a lot of snow! I got your pictures. There is a cowboy here & he really is more interested in Dads tractor. I think I set up my E-mail today. Class is in 1 hour. My teachers are so cool. I went to the refferal center yesterday & talked with a lady for 30 minutes! That is super long. 5 mins is the usual. She statred off swearing at me, then calmed down, then we talked about the restoration & then she cried & then asked for the missionaries in her area. It was so cool.
Well we are having a contest to see who gets the biggest package this week! So I'm asking you to make me a winner!
I love you both & pray for you. I'm happy & glad things are good. Getting letters everynight is the best!
Make sure Dev gets my address.
Love Jord

Ten minuntes from my house

2008-02-07T19:06:00.000-08:00

One of the perks of living in Logan is that the temple is ten minutes from my house and just one block from my office. It is so convenient to just slip over in the afternoon and do a session. No one even misses me. I substitute sometimes at the clothing rental desk. We don't get many patrons on weekdays so it is very quiet. I just like to be there because it is such a haven from the world. If you haven't been lately there are some pleasant changes to the ceremony.

Jordan's Letter and Snow

2008-02-04T06:21:00.000-08:00

We received Jordan's first letter and he assured us twice that he was "still alive" and that "it was not that bad". He said the Spirit was strong his testimony was strong and his loving nature would pull him through. The MTC is the best place for a 19 year old boy to be. Oh the great plan of HAPPINESS! Feburary 3, 2008. Lots and lots of snow and more in the forecast for this week. You just have to appreciate the seasons in Cache Valley. We will cozy up to the gas log and watch the presidential candidates debate.

Jordan's address

2008-01-31T22:25:00.000-08:00

Here is Jordan's address at the MTC. You can go to dearelder.com and send him a letter free. They will print it out and put it in his mailbox. You can write every day while he is at the MTC

Elder Jordan Owens

MTC Mailbox # 156

MO-INDE 0220

2005 N 900 E

Provo, Utah 84604-1793

Jordan in the MTC

2008-01-31T22:11:00.000-08:00

Oh happy day! After three months since the call has come Jordan is finally in the MTC.

One proud father!
Jeff was full of good advice such as "be a cool comp and two years isn't really that long."
Heidi was tender hearted.
Mom is relieved and overjoyed that Jordan is in a good place.

Jordan's Farewell

2008-01-27T16:40:00.000-08:00

Nikki and Noah were a great help at Jordan's farewell lunch. Nikki made fabulous dip and Noah helped build sandwiches. Nikki has been a great influence on Jordan. Nikki thanks for your organizational skills. We couldn't have done the party nearly as well without you.
Jordan has been blessed with great sisters. Heidi is a good friend.
Grandpa Harris - You are a member of the greatest generation. Your life is an example we can all follow. Thanks for your deep pockets.

Today Jordan spoke in Church before leaving for his mission. He worked hard on his talk and even went over to the church and practised it at the podium in the chapel. He did a great job. We had so many friends and family come. We served over 60 people lunch. It is a time of rejoicing to send a son into the mission field. We pray that he will serve well and be served by learning and growing himself. We feel such gratitude to the Lord for protecting Jordan and allowing us to have associated with him. We love you Jordan.

Saturday with Audrey and Alex

2008-01-20T23:28:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday (January 12th 2008) Josie painted her bedroom so Jeff brought Audrey and Alex to Logan to spend the day with Grandma Owens. They had a great time playing at the mall.
Audrey and Alex ate three orders of Toll House cookies and root beer.

Audrey had her nails painted yellow.

That night we watched Rattatoulli while Jeff and Lenny went to the Aggie game.

Jordan's endowment

2008-01-20T22:27:00.000-08:00

On Saturday January 19th 2008 Jordan went to the Logan temple and took out his enowment. It was a joyeous occasion. Jordan looked very handsome in his white clothes. It was quite a contrast with his dark skin. He seemed very happy and filled with light. David and Kelly and their daughters Kory and Krista came up from Kaysville. David and Kelly were the witness couple. LaRue came from Centerville. She observed that Mom (grandma Harris) was in attendance. Jeff and Josie came from North Salt Lake. We so appreciate everyones support. Josies great uncle is in the temple presidency. Another missionary going to Independence Missouri was there for his endowment. After the session we had a lasagna dinner at our home. John and Ilene Barrus dropped by to visit because they cannot come to Jordan's farewell next week

Audrey's Birthday

2007-12-31T16:17:00.000-08:00

Meet Spanky! Spanky was our favorite Christmas present of 2007. He is a little eight week old toy poodle. There is nothing that is more easy to love than a puppy.

Audrey turned four on the December 30th, 2007. At a family party we ate hay stacks and cake and ice cream. It's good we got a picture of all the presents or she would never remember what she got.Alex likes root beer. There was a trick candle on the cake that would reignite. Audrey didn't think it was too funny.