Independence Missouri day 3

pictures of the inside of the "church of Christ"




The Hill Family. (Gavin, (Kristen's fiance'), Kristen, Erin, Cleve & Carol)



One of the first Books of Mormon to be printed. (Out of the first 5000)


We took it easy this morning. We were totally worn out. Tracy is hanging in there. With pain only off and on. I think it's my attempts to get him into his chair that hurt the most. I had to have the hotel front desk guy come help me this morning. We were very happy to finally have the Hill's here. We immediately headed out to our first place. The "church of Christ Temple", formerly known as... "Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints" Temple. We toured that, and the the future temple site for our church. And then, toured our Mormon visitor Center right across the street.

Mostly today was just history stuff. Lots of different churches around. I like the old buildings. We stopped at a soda fountain, and it was way fun.

Today was great.

I hope my family is managing without me. I am sure they are. But I sure do miss them. I truly wish that they were with me. That is my favorite way to travel if I am gone for any amount of time!

Day 2 of our Road Trip/ "There's NO place like HOME Dorothy!"

Until I decide what to do about my blog, I will continue to update. I am mostly just worried that my foster kids' parents will find them. Since we are adopting, I prefer for them NOT to be trying to find them. They are the ones who hurt them, NOT me! So frustrating. I don't mind letting them know that what they did will NEVER be ok in my book.

Ok, so onto the 2nd day of our road trip. Where are my red shoes so I can hit my heels together and be home? We spent most of our day driving through Kansas. I don't remember liking it that much, but I enjoyed the green fields of corn.

I drove about 550 miles today. We landed in Independence, Missouri. I know, it's insane.
The trip has gone fairly well overall. This bus sure is loud to drive in, like a wind tunnel, but let me just tell you, it drives wonderfully, and it's a TRUE blessing to us. I am LOVING IT!

A miracle happened today. Well, I have had a few amazing things happen so far. The first one, is that this morning, I had NO idea how to get Tracy out of his bed, into his chair. There is NO transfering taking place here. NONE! He has never learned that. But me, the WOMAN...(hear me roar), I got him into his chair! Alone! I rolled him into it. Yes, I kind of hurt his arm, but nothing a little extra pain meds could not handle. Yikes. Just kidding. I keep trying to give him something to "relax" and "sleep" but he is like, "don't you do it!" So...I am not. Therefore, Mr. Armstrong is trying to help me drive from the back alot.

I brought some books on tape/cd from the library. Man, they are so fun. I wish I was reading it in real life, but this works too!

Trichelle is doing a bit better today too. So I am doing ok. But still stressing over no kidlets with me. My mother would NEVER tell me how hard it is, as she is doing such an amazing job. Man, she is like...my lifesaver. I know she will love my babies while I am gone.

Tomorrow, we will meet up with our friends. We are excited!

Tonight was a very very hard time for us. We checked into a hotel and it smelled like sewer. Tracy had "hit the wall" and I could not find a hotel that was ok. I finally found one. It is nice. We had to pay a little more, but since we are eating food we brought, the main expense on this trip is gas and hotel. I am cutting down, and Tracy rarely eats. He wants to lose weight, and is hardly ever hungry. So it has all worked out well. The best thing I did, was bring baggies of fruit and veggies. They have tasted so good on the road! Yum...

Thanks to all of our supporters and friends. You guys are awesome. And for Justin Fenus, you will always be our hero. There is NO way that we could ever forget you. you know, you became part of our family because of your kindness. We will NEVER forget you! EVER! We miss you!

We are so blessed to have this opportunity to spend time together on this trip. I know I sound bad, but really, having Tracy read his history in my ear, has been good for our relationship, and I have truly enjoyed it. So sorry if I sound gripey. I am really having fun.

Considering shutting down

I am considering very strongly to end the blog.
Or go private. I am amazed at the odd addresses that are lurking on my blog, and I have NO idea who they (YOU) are.

We have opened up our lives to share the joys and sorrows, the trials and happy times we share together as a family. We are in hopes that this is fun and entertaining, and informational about Tracy's progress since he was shot.

I am open to comments on this pondering session.
Thanks.
Lynn

Wonder if I will ever catch up?/Day one of Roadtrip

I am so far behind, but just a quick update.

Tracy is doing good.

I had Trichelle in the ER 2 nights ago, she had severe jaw pain, but not teeth pain. EVen all the pain meds they gave her didn't work. Long night and day. Back to the doctor she went and got some anti-nausea pills, which did help a tiny bit so she could keep pain meds down. 2nd doctor thought she had the same problem. A blocked tube in her salivary glands. This morning, she is still suffering and crying pretty bad, so I made her a dentist appointment with an oral surgeon, who says they can take care of this problem. My dear sweet angel mother took her there to Cedar City. Our insurance doesn't cover this. Yikes. Regardless, her health is more important at this point. He says, "nope, this is NOT the problem." He sent her to our dentist, who sent her to another dentist. End of story...my sweet suffering girl had to have a root canal. Hopefully she will be able to heal quicker. As my heart was broken and bleeding over leaving my angel in pain today.

But...my amazingly talented and angel mother came up to tend my kids, so tracy and I could go on a little trip for our anniversary. I was very happy knowing maybe I could get my own way, and go to ST. George to watch ALL of the Tuahcan plays. What a wonderful idea! But Tracy has dreams too. So we are doing what he was dying to do.

We are on a ROAD trip! NO kidding. Just the two of us. I had panick attacks for a few weeks, cried my eyes out, and now...I am doing fine. Well, until I got pulled over for no back lights on my bus. What? I am a WOMAN! Wait, a girl. Cause I have NO idea how to fix this problem. Luckily, since I am such an awesome driver...NO tickets. I was driving safely at the speed limit. Maybe the cop just loved me. Hee hee Just kidding. Tracy also needed a break from the stresses of work and all of the other problems in life. Hopefully this trip will be healing for him. I cannot say the same for myself, as I might be totally wiped out by then! I will have to hire Robin to come and take care of me in my hospital bed. Oh I am so funny this late at night.

It's about midnight, and after driving over 600 miles today alone, my dear sweet husband is sound asleep. I guess I had better go and do the same, as tomorrow...
MORE driving. Oh my.
It's been pretty good so far. Cross your fingers and say a prayer for us.


We are meeting our good friends Cleve and Carol Hill, and their family, and then, I will have Cleve's help a little. I am anxious to meet up. Drive mama drive. Right?
Did I mention that I love, love, love Colorado? It's so green and pretty! Our first night we stayed at a hotel in Limon. It was nice believe it or not.

More updates on the 4th of July as soon as I get to a hotel room earlier at night.
Life is so eventful isn't it? Oh my. I guess that wasn't a very quick update. Sorry.

Wednesday at our house

That title made it sound like I had some great news. But alas...things are just normal here! Tracy hurt all day today. We never know what causes him to hurt more on one day than another. He still goes to work daily. I am happy he does this. It's good for him. What he really needs is a monkey on his shoulder to pick up what he drops. I think Trichelle and I ran down there tons of times today, just to do little things for him. He usually uses Ethen for this, but Ethen is partying in Phoenix this week. Which is very good for him! So Tracy hasn't had a helper. Ryen helps, but being 8, he gets antsy. Kendra helps off and on too. I just don't like my little kids doing adult errands. Yikes.

Tracy hasn't done therapy in over a week, but today, he decided he would try it anyways. Even though he hurt. Another good thing that he did.

I guess we have decided to go to the Stadium of Fire to watch Trichelle dance. That is for the 4th of July. I think it will be great. She practices every morning at 6am. It's quite a long dance too! I am amazed that she can learn it so quick. Austen and Kayla will be home from their time with her family, so they will watch the kids. I would love to take them all with us, but the price is like...wowsies. So they will have fun here for the 4th, riding their bikes in the parade.

I LOVE the 4th of July and the opportunity to be patriotic. I love being free. Being an American! I LOVE IT! And all of the music that goes along with it. It just makes my heart burn, knowing of the blessing it is to be free!
Listen
by Teresa Bateman

Listen -
Can you hear it?
That soft whisper in the trees?
The sound of honest cotton
Reaching out to catch the breeze?
Unfurling in the gentle winds
Red, White, and Blue it flies -
The flag of our great nation
Standing crisp in freedom's skies.

Listen -
Can't you hear it?
That soft flutter in the wind?
A touch of martial music,
A soft-sung, distant hymn?
The weeping of a war bride,
a wounded soldier's moan,
The sound of distant cannon,
A bugle's lonely tone.

Listen -
Can't you hear them?
Those who struggled valiantly
Through years of war and hardship
that their children might be free?
The winds of change are blowing.
Can we stand before the test?
Have you noticed it's the strongest winds
that make the flag show best?

Listen -
Can't you hear it?
That soft whisper in the trees?
The sound of honest cotton
reaching out to catch the breeze.
Unfurling in the gentle wind,
Red, White, and Blue it flies -
The flag of our great nation
Standing crisp in freedom's skies.
Remember what it represents -
The cost behind the vision.

Look up -
Can't you see the way it beckons to you?
Listen.

Does anyone else have any fun plans for the 4th?

Happy Birthday to my Mother

This is my mom. She's awesome as you can see. She is always there for me, helping me through my daily trials and catastrophe's. I have no idea how she continues to handle my drama, but she does. She has taught me so many things, and I appreciate her for that. My mother has always been one of the hardest working people I know. And has a heart of gold. I am glad no one needed the shirt off her back, because she would have given it to them! I admire her for her strength, courage, testimony,kindness, patience. I only pray I will be as good as her some day. She is my best friend (along with my sisters) and I have been truly blessed to be her daughter. Ah, what a wonderful woman she is!

Our weekend

Balloon Festival Time!
Kayla
Dillen
Cousins,(Quinn and Tammy's kids), Michelle Spray, and Brandon Tesch/Justen and Ethen
Nathen and Lyndee



Ryen & Nathen
Kendra, Nicole Oliver (our past nanny), Trichelle
We had Nicole Oliver come over from Cedar. She was our nanny a few years ago, and is now attending college in Cedar. We sure do love her. She's a sweetheart, and the kids just wanted to be with her all the time!
Austen & Justen
Craig and Trac Norris
Ryen, Nicole, Stevie in stroller

Tracy is so proud of Kollen, and really wants to hold him as much as possible. (who doesn't...right?) They have their bonding moments, and they are so cute.







We had Justen up here for the weekend. He mostly stayed at the lodge because there is more excitement up there. We mostly just have little ones here...I guess I cannot blame him. We were grateful for the time we did get to be with him.
As you can see, he ended up helping at the blow-up toys for a while. (yes, we did pay) but it was fun to have a brother there, to throw the kids up high, and upside down. That was really a fun thing for them.





This was so adorable. I woke up, and looked outside to see the balloons in the sky, and I saw this. Ryen and Lyndee first sitting outside, right next to eachother, as Ryen was explaining what the ballons were, and all of that. They are pretty close. Ryen is a great big brother!

Tracy has done pretty good all weekend. He's just worn out from all of the activities going on. He tries to keep up the pace, but being in his wheelchair for hours on end is hard on him. I can only imagine. Thank heavens. I would never want to know what it is truly like to be in a wheelchair all day long, not being able to stand up or stretch out!

Adversity never leaves us. This weekend, we have also had vandelism at our lodge for two days in a row. They also stole our "vacancy" and "no" signs. How annoying and aggravating. Probably just young punky teenagers who think they are being cute.
They also pulled all of our lights down and smashed them. I am sure they are out-of-towners. They usually are! Because most people in our area are our friends. That is one good thing about Panguitch and the lake...everyone helps eachother in times of need! Always looking out for eachother and their neighbors. That is how the General Store is too. Everyone there is so kind and supportive of our business and us!
I am happy to report that Justen arrived home safely, back to Phoenix. He took Ethen with him. I just got a text and his trailer was OVER 100 degrees in it. He says it takes quite a while to bring it to a normal temperature. He usually just sweats all day and night. Poor guy. Hopefully he can continue to earn money and buy himself a home. Or just move back to Panguitch. I need to find him a good paying job so he can be close to home. Maybe school in Cedar! YES! Good plan!

And in case you are wondering about my music choice...HEY! I have 11 kids. OK? I could not find a good balloon song last minute. And on facebook, I took this quiz, and it said I am age 12. Although I never posted that...because I do not believe it. But, I am a kid at heart, so just enjoy the music from Mary Poppins. OKEE-Dokee? Hee hee. Oh I am so funny.

Stevie is 3 today!

Our sweet little Stevie is 3 today. This is his new name. Steven. Edited...edited...

Stevie had so much fun blowing out his candles. I should have bought him a potty chair, but he is still quite behind. And believe me, this new toy has really "woken" him up.

I believe this is his first birthday celebration, and he is in heaven. He is so happy, he hasn't quit smiling. The balls will be good for learning colors too. So we're excited!

Random thought: As I was organizing my shed a while back, I spotted this blow up toy with the balls. I think I bought it like 3 or 4 years ago, and keep forgetting about it. At Christmas, I felt like the kids had enough toys, so I was saving this. Low and behold, I remembered it again right in time. I didn't have to spend a dime on his birthday. Because me, miss frugal, found this on clearance some years ago. It sure came in handy! My kids think I am mom of they year tonight. I can see this was the perfect time to bring this out. This could be good for a long time. Entertaining the masses. Although it looks bigger than it is, there seems to be just enough room for all of my little kiddos to fit into. Hours of entertainment are on the horizon for us! Yeah! Yippeee!

Tracy came home from work and appeared ok, but within about half an hour, he started feeling ill, and he hasn't done well ever since. He is feeling pretty bad right now. I am not sure what is going on. He just got really cold. So, now that the partying is over, it's time to go and figure out what to do about this. Never a dull moment!

Second random thought: I cannot believe Michael Jackson or Farrah Faucet died today. I mean, I have to admit I love his music. And I did watch Charlie's Angels as a young girl. I think it's sad.
Tomorrow starts the awesome annual balloon festival in town. We are all so very excited!
Third random: I got my cell phone in the mail today. Thank heavens for insurance on cell phones! I will be back in business by tomorrow! Yippeeee!

Tuesday

Trichelle went to the Manti Pageant tonight with the youth. I am not sure if this is a new look for her or what. But she likes it, and the hippie look. Oh my. At least her hair matched right? silly girl!







I wondered where my other photos of Kollen went, and I found them and had to share, because he is so adorable. Sorry to brag, but...as a grandma now, I think I have bragging rights. Hee hee.
We are so proud that Austen and Kayla love their baby beyond measure. They are great parents!
Kollen loved Colton(Trichelle's boyfriend) when he came to visit too.

Yesterday was a hard pain day for Tracy, but today, thank heavens, is a new day. Tracy stayed at work all day, and even went to the lake for a drive with Austen!
Stay tuned...I think Austen and Tracy have the front cover of the "Preview" magazines for July. I will keep you posted. It's pretty exciting!

Tracy is thinking of me taking him on a road trip in the bus. I am thinking he is nuts. He is using the excuse that it's for our anniversary.It's so hard in the bus to do long trips. I looked into renting a motorhome, but...did you know those are like $200 a day? Plus mileage and gas? I guess the bus is looking better all the time. I am still not convinced I will take him. Still pondering this situation. I think a plane ride sounds MUCH better. Don't you?? There is so much to consider, like who will help me move him in and out of a bed. Hm....pondering...pondering...

Have I mentioned that I dropped my cellphone into a glass of water? So sad. I still haven't replaced it yet. I am lost!

Things are going well here at our house today. (not counting the phone loss)
Fun times! The kids are loving summer!

Happy Birthday Dad!

Today is my father's birthday. What an incredible dad he his. Not only was he great as a daddy for me growing up, but to this day, I don't know that he has ever made any negative comments about me as a person, my appearance, or any of the like. I have always felt his support in all I do. He is one of the hardest working, kind people I know.
As a girl, I would iron his shirts and earn 10cents a piece. I always looked up to him and have admired his work ethic.
My dad is the handiest, and one of the most talented people I know. There are very few experiences I have not had due to my father. He has always brought many opportunities to my family. Such as farm animals, gardening, house repairs, car repair,housework... So many things, I just cannot list them all. His nonstop support is what keeps me going through my life. When I call him with stress or problems, he always has a solution . I sure wish he lived closer and wish he could breathe up here in this high elevation. I miss him being around. He has loved every child I have brought into his house. Every foster child I have ever had, thought he was THEIR grandpa too, because he always held and loved them as his own. Our children have a great example in grandpa. He is amazing, wonderful, and full of love. He continues to teach them woodworking, and to eat out of his garden.
WE love you dad! (and grandpa Wilson!)
We miss you!

If my other computer was working, I would have some amazing photos of this incredible dad! But the ones I have sure do capture who he is. His loving eyes, and sweet smile say it all! He's so handsome, I just wish I could hug him today!!!

Kollen visits Grandma & Grandpa's house for Father's Day!

Today, our sweet little Kollen (and his parents) came to visit for Father's Day.
Tracy really enjoyed spending his moments with him. He hurt all day, and was unable to attend church. Today, Monday, he went to his office because he had some things he was working on, but had to come home mid-day because of pain. He has been trying to just relax it off, but it's not working. We were so happy to spend a little while with our new little grandson. He seems so NEW still. I doubt he's more than 7 pounds. He's SO tiny and cute. We are so incredibly blessed to have him in our life. I keep having to remind myself that I am not 25 anymore, and yes, I am a grandparent. Oh my, that seems so odd to say! But I am proud to say that he is ours!

A day at the... "circus"??

Last week, we received a call from the family support center in Cedar, asking if our kids could come and do a circus with them. So Saturday, I took the kids over there. They seemed to have fun, making masks, face painting, and performing their little acts. They were the animals, etc. It's fun trying new things.

Happy Birthday to Justen

Our boy turned 22 today! We are so grateful for his happy personality, always smiling, and always cracking a joke. We miss him so much and wish he could move back and work closer to home. But...we cannot have it all I guess! Justen has always been a peacemaker, and hopefully, someday, he will be able to move closer to home. Right Justen? Man, he's so awesome! Happy Birthday to a wonderful son!

Busy days

For the last few days, we have been running like crazy. Trichelle is off to girl's camp for 3 days. I already miss her.

Tracy is doing pretty good lately, and still going to work each day. This is very good to report.

I have had 24 hours of huge stress because I have been dealing with a situation NO ONE should have to deal with. I had a girl at my house who was considering giving her children up for adoption. I am really not in a position to take on 2 more right now. So after hours at the Family Support Center in Cedar, and many other emotional hours, she is gone, and so are her kids, and she has a new solution. Talk about nuts. Life is just so crazy sometimes. I did watch the kids overnight, and would have anyways due to us being a "shelter" home. But, this was intense for me, and I am just grateful it is over. The emotional stress is almost too hard on me these days. I never mind being a shelter home, but I prefer to do it through foster care, so there are rules.

Before all of this happened, I was able to attend the temple in St. George yesterday. What a blessing in my life! The Lord has his hand in everything we do. I know this for a fact. And I am proud of myself, that I was able to make wise decisions when it was very essential. Tracy is so good and supportive of whatever is going on. I appreciate that so much. Now that we have finished a few stressful days, we are onto the next few stressful days. Yikes.

The Blessings of the Temple

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLXYxmaHWQs&feature=email

Why Mormons Build Temples

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLXYxmaHWQs&feature=email

Cold day

It was so cold today, I had to turn on the heater. I know, this is freaky. HEATER in June. We had some rain today too.
That didn't stop my brother Jay. He showed up today, ready to work. He mowed my yards, and did tons of outside work for me. He is totally amazing. Totally. He is one of the hardest working people I know. AND he can fix almost anything! I am so grateful for his services today. He was a blessing in my life today.

Tracy is doing pretty good. Its nice to say this. He has his moments, but overall, he is hanging in there. I think having no electricity at the Lodge for 24 hours the other day, really maxed out his limits, but now that this is resolved, he is a whole new person, and ready to continue on. He was up during the night of the power outage for hours, trying to find a solution to our problem.

I guess we just need to be more thankful in our prayers for electricity, and the blessing it is in our life! I am definitely not a pioneer, and am so glad to have the modern conveniences of life. This is what makes life bareable. Don't you think?

Always trying to catch up...right?

We had fun planting our flowers!





Baseball is finally over! Yeah! There is my cute little baseball player on the far left. Love that kid!
Trichelle went to the lake and was able to visit with Kollen. What a doll!










Is everyone constantly behind, or is it just me? Oh well, right?

Where do I even start? Let's see...

Friday was quilt walk festival in town. I wasn't going to really go because of lack of time, but when my good friend from California, Pam Sutton showed up, she called and I ran down there. She is making a baby quilt for Kollen, and it's adorable! She also made me this awesome wall hanging. It's so amazing. She's such a great quilter! I enjoyed her company along with her sister Judie and her husband. Very nice people! I am happy I have new friends.

Pam with my new wall hanging
Pam Sutton, working her fingees to the bone.





Friday, Tracy and all of the boys (except for the baby...cause babies aren't invited), went to father and sons. Men don't usually carry cameras, so I have NO photos of this awesome event. But Tracy said that Austen and Craig set him up well, and he SLEPT OUTSIDE on a mattress, and had a good night. WOW! This is so cool! They had lots of fun.

Girls night out at Arby's. Silly girls! I love THEM!Meanwhile, we had fun at home, doing girls night. Kendra chose where we got to eat. She chose Arby's. Needless to say, we ended up with 2 kids meals for the girls and baby. Trichelle and I had to pass. But it was fun. $8 for 2 kid meals...yes, we are gourmet dining. Now you know how frugal I really am. Oh my. Scary.
Kendra also chose our movie, which was "sleeping beauty".
we are goofy!
It was an enjoyable night of sleep and relaxation. I should have worked and gotten everything cleaned up, but it was so peaceful, we just wanted to take it easy. And we did.


Saturday the boys got home early. But...we were already gone. Our foster kids had a sibling visit. They have 4 other siblings who live in Cedar. So sad. It was hard for them to say goodbye. And really, it will be forever very soon. I just cannot save the whole world. UGH. Don't tempt me though. Most everyone I talk to is against us adopting these two children, but...only time will tell what the final decision is. Well, for the record...we are basically planning on adoption. We didn't go into it thinking this way a all, but...when you take in 2 darling little kids, who are sweethearts, and you fall in love with them, and they know you as mom and dad...I know...I know...we have heard every negative in the world about taking them. So we will just discuss this when everything is final. (I know this is random...hopefully you know me by now, to know this is me)

Saturday night all night, Tracy had a hard time and thought he was getting the flu. I have no idea what brought this on, but we had a hard night. So this morning, church just came too early. And we didn't make it. This is horrible for us, as we are very dedicated to our religion. Life is so difficult sometimes. But we spent family time together instead, which is good enough sometimes.


This afternoon, my best friend came by from Phoenix. She stopped in on her way home from colorado where her daughter had her wedding reception. What a fun time to see her. OH I miss having friends and family around all the time. GOOD times!
Don and Kristan Paolacci and Jean Harper, our great friends from Phoenix. We are so happy they stopped by!

The electricity was off most of Sunday. Major crisis at our lodge. Of course all of our cabins are full and it has been off since 2:30pm, and won't come on until midnight tonight up there. Renters are upset, but we have NO control over the electric company. We will probably lose lots of money over this. Sad.

We got our electricity back on at about 7pm. Austen is in a real fix, so he came down to town and is using the generator from our house to try and at least get some water on for our renters. It's been a nightmare. Like I said...life is very difficult sometimes. We hope it works. Thanks to our neighbor Trent Atkin who is amazing and found us a cord that might work as an adapter. We have very good neighbors on all sides of us. Amazing I tell you!
I won't voice my opinion about the lodge right now. I have "feelings" about it I won't share...probably ever. Be happy, be VERY happy that SOMETIMES I can control my tongue. Hee hee ha ha.

That dang wind blew out my hot water heater again. But now I am an experienced water heater lighter. So I will try my hand at that in a moment. What would life be like if I were bored? I think I actually enjoy all of this hubub. Cause when I get a moment I start to think of others things to do, or that need done like...

Maybe I need a vacation! Good idea Lynn! I better talk to the boss while he is feeling good, and see if he wants to venture out sometime soon.

Tracy is doing pretty doggone good today, so we plan to accomplish alot this week, and are looking forward to another busy week ahead of us. We feel blessed to have so many good things happen to us, amidst our daily trials. Life is good to us. And we have the Lord on our side, so believe me, this is a huge blessing. He is very good to us.:)

Thursday

Justen's been having fun in Phoenix. He is now attending a single's ward. But he still likes the Spanish ward the best. So he might go there more often. Especially if he gets to know the young women. I mean...ward members.
He went on a funny date where he wore western clothes. They actually went out and bought him some, because if you know my kids...well, they usually don't wear wranglers. (What is funny, is that they(we) were total cowboy people when we moved to Panguitch from Phoenix). But as time has evolved...he's just a crack up. He's so fun! (at least we hoped Bree thought the same thing as he scared her)

There isn't much going on here today. We are all under the weather. I am not sure what is going on. Tracy woke up with a fever. I think it's just a 2 day virus thing. But we've been going through it and the entire family for a week or so now. Hopefully it ends very soon. We are laying low for now. Tracy still went to work. Maybe his pain medicine is helping him through his "not feeling so great" stage.

Scrapbooking-a random thought

Ok, so for anyone who doesn't know that I like scrapbooking, now you do. I just don't have time for anything fun and exciting, but I still enjoy doing it, and organizing photos if I get just a moment. So I "borrowed" this photo from someone's blog. I thought it was amazing. When all of my kids move out, I am going to make me a room like this! Awesome! My grandkids will enjoy it too! Hee hee. There is even a walk in closet with completed books, etc. Oh my. I love it. Notice the cup holders and all? Perfect. It might be fun to see this in person huh?
According to this lady's blog, she said it's Martha Stuarts craft room. Cool.

Windy Wednesday

I am not sure what mother nature is doing, but this wind is so ridiculous! I even had to wear a jacket to Ethen's baseball game! Good grief!

Tracy is doing good. I can tell that the epidural is finally working. He has occasional pain under his arms and nerve pain in his arms, but it's obvious he is doing better. What a nice change!

Our court date is cancelled tomorrow! Miracles continue to happen to us. I was so stressed about having to testify for our foster kids. Because the conversations were not going to be pleasant. But as luck will be, the parents relinquished their rights yesterday. June 9th. Everyone is so thankful and relieved. I am not a huge **** fan myself, but on this particular case, I am so glad it ended the way it did.
I work for ****, because I love the foster care program, but the run around and all that goes along with it, is very intense and hard work. The only reward is knowing that the bad situations, turn out good. Like this one. We are still in the process of "what is next?" We will clue you in on our future plans and details as we get them. The saddest part of this case, is that out of 6 kids in one family, all of the children are going to be separated into separate homes. It breaks my heart. I cannot even imagine this. What a tragedy. My little kids get one more sibling visit on Saturday. Wa.

Quilt walk festival is this weekend. But most of my kids will be at Father and Sons outing. So we might not be able to do alot of participating this year. Wa again. Best news of the day, is that I got my laptop fixed! Miracles...yes! Oh how blessed I feel.

A great mom moment

I was visiting with Trichelle in the front room, and in walks Mr. funny. I said, "why do you have a baggie taped to your head?" Dillen said, "I don't want to lose my tooth under my pillow, so the tooth fairy can see it." I laughed so hard, I could hardly stand it. I said, "well, you cannot breath if that bag gets on your nose and mouth." So...Mr funny moves it to his chin. He has the happiest character, and really made all of us laugh. He was so happy when the tooth fairy actually did come last night. (I was surprised she remembered too!) I cannot believe my little 4 year old has already lost a tooth. What a doll baby.


Tracy had a rough night, waking me up every hour or 2 to turn him. Wait, maybe it was me that had a rough night. Either way...He does pretty good during the day times. So that is what is great. It's just morning and nights that we have a little harder time. He continues to go to his office. I am really not sure what he is doing down there, except waiting for some kind soul to walk in and buy something. Sadly, I am sure part of his lack of clients might be his physical impairment. I do not really have alot of proof of that. It's my own insecurities taking over. But we are hoping for the best. He is just as smart as ever and is very knowledgeable with Real Estate. Plus, we just paid our tithing, so things should continue to look up for us!

Craig has been quite ill today. I took him to the doctor because of his fever for 2 days. He might just be run ragged from all of his "tripping."
The good news about Craig is that he is slowly gaining weight. Which means he is able to eat food easier now. Hopefully his esophagus is healing well. He had to go up to the Lodge today and watch over it while Austen and Kayla left. I felt so bad seeing him go when he was so sick. Oh my.
Once his medicine takes effect, hopefully he will be on the mend. Trichelle has been going up to help clean off and on too to help out. It's been good for her.

Pondering on Sunday

Tracy's arms were hurting him today pretty bad, and some of the kids weren't feeling so well, so we decided to do our own thing at home today. It has been a wonderful day so far.

Saturday

Today has gone pretty good. Robin doesn't come on Saturday's, so I got Tracy all ready to go to his office, and then he decided at the last minute that he didn't' want to miss Glayd Owens' funeral. So, we loaded up the kids and up to the lake we went. The kids were not dressed appropriately, so I just sent Tracy over to the General Store without me. He was so happy to go. Glayd has done so much for our family, being right across the street from our lodge. Snowplowing in the winter, always calling and checking on Austen and Kayla. He was a great neighbor, and from my experience, he is very generous and giving too. He would always give my little kids a free candy bar. We will really miss him. My kids will really miss him. They are each like.."oh man! Not Glayd! Oh man!"

We also were able to love on our little Kollen for a short time. Oh what an angel that baby is!

Tracy spent many hours at his office today. TOO many actually. I picked him up at about 8:45pm, and he was very white, and peaked. He wants to be what he used to be, but it's almost impossible. He had Ethen helping him ALL day. It was great! Since he's been home tonight, he is doing better to get out of his chair for a spell. He forgets to tilt and things that help him go longer hours. But he is a trooper!

The little kids and I were busy busy at home today. I love summer. Time to clean stuff out. The trash man even left us an extra trash can. He must be sick of our piles out front. I just keep throwing out. I wish I could eliminate tons more. Line upon line right?

Craig and Trichelle arrived home tonight looking like lobsters. They went to Seven Peaks after EFY, and they are little french fries! OUCH! They both had a fabulous time. The best thing we have EVER done for our kids, is sending them to EFY for a week. They come home better people. Craig hugged me for a long time, and was so kind and sweet. Ah, it was so totally cool! I think he might have missed me! YEAH!

I am so grateful to Austen for coming over here on Thursday. He babysat all of my little kids so I could have an afternoon away. I took advantage of my time out and went to the temple in St. George. Awesome experience as usual! I love the temple. It is my peaceful place in life. I always leave a better person. I enjoyed my time and came home to a mowed yard, and Austen had put the kids to work. He is amazing for just a young man. He can handle so much. I am so glad he's my son. The kids adore him too! He even bought them pizza! And we never get pizza cause it's so expensive. But he treated the kids on his dime. What a sweet son. Blessings continue to surround our life. We appreciate every one of them!

Amazing

Sorry to post so much lately, but...I just have to tell you how amazing I am. I am managing better every day as a woman with no man around. Well, Tracy is around, but no where in sight of where the problems lie. So, I am having to figure out how to cope without help. I know it seems like it's taking me forever, but remember, I was once a pansy. I am trying to be more like a man, but it's very hard for me. I am a total wimp. Until tonight. I am so proud of myself, I had to brag.

Situation:
NO HOT WATER. Yes, it's true. Kids crying for a bath, and need one due to playing outback in the mud. (I need sand instead huh?)Can't do dishes...oh my.

Called: sons
Asked: husband
No one knows what to tell me.

After 25 matches, Lynn the Great figured out HOW to light the hot water heater. Pilot light and all, on all fours, and Nate helping me hold down a knob. He was worried I would burn him. But like I told him, I didn't. I was worried I'd blow up the both of us. That is how dingy I am about appliances.

But this is a milestone for me. I will soon be able to take care of myself. Maybe. Hee hee. Maybe if I can take care of the man jobs, I will be ok. The ones I cannot do, I guess Austen will have to drive from the lake to fix for me. YEAH! I am woman! I never thought I could do something like this. Wimp...like I said...wimp! But not tonight! I am so happy for myself. Can you tell? You'd think I won the lottery. That is how good I feel about it. Well, not quite that good.

Friday

Hi everyone! Our teenie-boppers come home tomorrow from a week of camp. Yeah for us!

Tracy felt really good yesterday! But today is another story. The wind has been horrendous today. We usually don't have it that bad this time of year. I thought our dead tree out front might fall down. Oh my. We need to cut it down soon I guess. I haven't wanted to admit it, but it has to go soon.

Maybe the wind is affecting Tracy's pain. How dumb. It's sad. But he still went to his office.

Craig's Graduation May 20th

Craig w/Ryen
Craig with his friends
Craig and Trichelle
Craig and Carly
Craig and Carla (she claims him, so she is like another mother to him. What a sweetheart she is!
Craig and Grandma Wilson
Craig with his sterling scholar
Austen, Craig, Kayla, Justen, & Weston Wilson(cousin)







Yes, I am behind, but these photos were so fun, I had to share. I was going to make a slide show, but this computer of the kids has a program that will not let me into those things. So bare with us, until I can get this fixed. :) ENJOY~! WE did!

Kendra & Ryen's Baptism-looking back to May 23rd

The baptisms were a smashing success. Thanks to everyone who helped out. Especially Jennifer Bremner, who saves me every time with a dessert. Yeah! It was awesome!

We had cousins-a-plenty. More than normal!
We were so blessed to have people come.
The kids loved it, I loved it...it was great.
We sure do wish we had some family around more often. The kids has a great time.

Overall, I cannot even think of any problems that happened! Wow, that is amazing.

Austen baptized Ryen, and Justen baptized Kendra. Tracy confirmed them. Afterwards, we had a luncheon, and a little party for Jessica and Kade. Our cousins who had birthday's on the 23rd. We had a pinata, and it was really fun!

The service project

This past few weeks have been crazy. And so without a computer, I haven't had any means to post photos of our events. So I will start here. Isn't this great? The Silverado Boys Ranch came and did yard work for me, and hand dug my garden area! YEah!
After their many hours of work, cleaning up and everything, the kids had fun playing with them. They were all good sports, and let the kids hang all over them. It was a great service project they came up with, and I am so very grateful for their kindness. I just couldn't have done that much work without them. They were all troopers, and really worked hard! Good job to these great young men! We truly appreciate you!

I should have waited!

I should have waited to post so I didn't depress everyone. So sorry.

Today, Tuesday, Robin got here first thing in the morning (7am) and got Tracy ready for the day. Bless her heart. How would we ever do without our dear sweet Robin. She's an angel in my life. She had him ready by 8am, and he was actually doing pretty good! No kidding. He went to his Travel Council meeting in Bryce Canyon. He loves doing that. He loves promoting our county. He loves the travel industry.
(that helps since we have a lodge huh?)

I saw him this afternoon after his meeting in Bryce Canyon, and he is still doing well. He is at work now. More power to him! Thanks for sticking with us and going through this daily ordeal. Maybe I will cut down when I write, so I won't have as many problems to report. Just the good stuff. :) Life is good today.

The only thing that would make today better is if I could see my grandbaby more. Wa.

I am missing Trichelle badly this week. I cannot function well without her. I am thinking I need a nanny or a housekeeper again. Since my little lady Thelma left us. My kids keep asking when Thelma will be back. We miss her. She moved to Texas where she could make more money. Bummer. She was great. Trichelle needs to come home soon! COME HOME GIRL! Geeze, imagine her wanting to be a teeanger. Hee hee. Just kidding. I allow her these opportunities so she has NO regrets as a teenager. Cheer will keep her busy this summer too I believe!

The only thing that would make today better is if I could see my grandbaby more. Wa.

Monday

I haven't posted because I am waiting for miraculous news. That Tracy is all well, and doing great!
But...yesterday, he hurt so bad, he had to miss church and never got out of bed.

Today, same horrid pain in his arms. He is suffering quite extensively. We called the doctor that did the epidural. They said to give it a few more days, and maybe it will subside. They are almost sure of it! So that is good. We will wait it out a few more days. Easy for me to say. Poor man. But that didn't stop him. He went to work today anyways. I admire him for that.

We are lonely here without Craig and Trichelle. They are at EFY this week. Craig went on a 3 day road trip with 2 classmates. They attended 2 baseball games, and hit six flags. They called that their "senior" trip. It would have gone better if he had one of his best friends along. But...he got home late last night. Like 11:15, and then we had to stay up and do laundry so he could leave this morning first thing. He is happy to be at EFY. He called me and told me he is anxious to have a very very good experience as he always does there. Spiritual, fun, knowledge, excitement, and "girlies". He is so funny.

We are keeping busy and glad for a low key week. So Tracy can adjust to his pain again.

Saturday

I just wanted to report that today Tracy seems a little better. During the day at least, he has done well. So hopefully this epidural is on it's way up the spine. Hee hee ha ha. We are looking forward to a great summer of less pain than usual. Maybe we can get more accomplished if we are not trying to deal with the massive pain! Yippee!
Our lodge is busy, and things are going well.
Thanks to everyone who has made life easier for us. WE really do appreciate you!
And our neighbors, they are so great, always helping out when needed! Thanks for your wheelbarrow, rakes and shovels. They were a great help!

Finally, I can introduce our Grandson!

Kollen Otto Armstrong
Born: May 25, 2009 Memorial Day
6 lbs
Kayla and Kollen went home today. We only wish he were just 18 miles closer. Oh well, we can go see him anytime now. What a sweet little baby Kollen is! And Kayla is doing pretty good. She is such a good mommy! We are so happy for both of our kids and their new precious baby!
Tracy has had major pain today from his epidural. But it is supposed to be in effect very soon, and he will be ready to bounce off the walls again. He is so happy he can get around so much better when he isn't in pain. What a blessing. He did let Dave come today for therapy, so that is a great sign! He even went to work today! What a trooper!

Thanks also to everyone who helped out this past week. Whether is was coming to support Kayla at her shower, or coming to our baptisms, or sending Craig a card.
Everything has meant the world to us. We are so blessed.

Grandpa!!!!

Kollen already loves his daddy!


What a wonderful little mommy Kayla is!

Epidural

I have no idea where my slide shows went. WA
I will try to update things as I can!

We went by the hospital today to check on baby Kollen. He has been dehydrated and also has jaundice pretty bad. So he is still in the hospital. Today, they did remove his IV and Kayla says he is doing a bit better. We are so happy about this. He is so absolutely adorable. I need to find a way to get photos downloaded. I need my computer fixed first.

We had a foster care meeting today for 3 hours! CRAZY stuff. Tracy was able to attend, and it was good for him to be in on more of the details. I guess. It just made him cry. Wa.

Then, onto St. George to Dr. Empey. Tracy got his epidural cortizone shot. It should last for 3 months. Right after they did it, he said he had NO pain for the first time ever. He was so amazed, and said it felt so great. Then, the numbing wore off, and he hurts again. They say it might take a few days to fully start working. But we are glad to finally have that done.

Ethen did great at his baseball game. We made it home just in time for that. He got to pitch for the first time ever. He was in heaven!

Needless to say, we are worn out and wondering when we can just be home for one straight day or two. This old woman needs some rest! Someday! This is my goal.
We have weathered the storm pretty good so far, but a day of rest would be nice. Maybe Sunday. The day the Lord GAVE us as a gift...to rest!

The Crazy Life

I have so much to report, but so little time. I am on a borrowed computer, so I cannot send photos.
This past week has been nuts! Tracy has more pain than usual because his epidural has worn off. He had an appointment last week, but his blood was too thin.
So the new day is tomorrow.

We made it through Lois dying (Austen and Kayla's dog), graduation for Craig, company, baptisms, baby shower, our dog Macy dying (she was put to sleep after the last week and 1/2 suffering), and now...
A NEW BABY! WE are grandparents!
Right after Macy was put to sleep, we got the call that Kayla was in labor! Trichelle and I went to the hospital in Cedar and spent the whole night there. Little Kollen was born at about 6:30am. Mom and baby did great, and are still doing great!
They named him Kollen Otto Armstrong. Otto comes from Austen's great grandpa, and Kayla's grandpa. So they liked it.
It is pronounced...K au llen. There is no "O" sound. Just for the record.
He weighed 6 pound even. And of course, he is the cutest baby in the world! He looks alot like his daddy. Who was also the cutest baby in the world. :)

I will update photos as I find a computer that will work. My new laptop died after 2 months. Can you say...LEMON? I have NO computer or vacuum in my home that works. So we are working hard to get those 2 mandatory items fixed asap. So much to do, so little time. That is always the story, but really, it's only because it's true.

Life in a nutshell

Busy, busy and too busy.

Tracy got his stitches out of his toe.
He is hurting a bit more, but his blood was too thin to do the procedure he is due for. His epidural shot. So we have to wait a week.
He continues to try to go to work. Good for him!

Austen and Kayla are SO busy at the lodge, they can hardly see straight. Craig is up there almost every single day, working his fingees to the bone.
And he doesn't have a whole lot left to work off. He is already skin and bones. Hee hee.

Sad news.
Lois passed away last night. Austen and Kayla's sweet little puppy of one year. She just fell over and was dead. They are not dealing with it well at all. She was like their only child. They had an autopsy done on her, but the vet found nothing.
It's all they can do to function at this point, but hopefully it will get better soon. Too much stress for the new mommy to be.

We have lots of company, and I am so far behind, i am barely functioning.

We had the Silverado Boys Ranch come out today and do a tremendous service project for us. They cleaned up my yards, mowed, and dug up my garden plot. They were hardworking, and incredible. They made my life so much easier, that I am just amazed! AMAZED! I am so grateful. I feel like they were a blessing a sent from heaven at this time. My brother Jay also helped them so much, he is also an amazingly hard working man! What a wonderful help they were today!

Worn out, tired, and behind. Oh, and need to get a few hours of sleep before our baptisms tomorrow, and kayla's shower.

Our Events this Week

As you can see, we are very busy this week.
Here are the main things we have going this week. There are many other things, but...these are the tops!
We are excited for these events, but the organization to get them done is another ball game. I guess my age is showing through, as it's so much harder to do all of these events so close together. I say...let's spread them out!
Oh well, we are anxious for them, and happy we can enjoy them as a family!

Monday

Today was a busy day. I worked as hard as I could. Tracy got his hair cut this morning, so he is looking and feeling much better. Somehow it always make you feel better to get a trim. :) Tracy worked hard all day!

One great piece of news I have forgotten to mention, is that Austen now has his Real Estate License! No kidding. We are so proud of him. He got his first listing today and is thrilled! Way to go Austen! Tracy helping him learn the ropes, and he will help Tracy too.

Because I am so busy, I had no time to deal with our doggy problems. Poor little Macy. Craig took her to Cedar to the vet. She has a torn ACL. They want to do surgery on her for $525.00. Now come on!~ Oh how stressful. Most people would say to put her down, but Justen said if we did, he'd never speak to us again. He loves that dog so much! Ryen already had a severe crying fit over it. We aren't sure what to do. It's so crazy. They want to operate on Friday. We have until then to decide what to do with our little doggy.

Last minute, we realized that we had baseball games today. So in my distress, I called the Bremners, and they are angels and took my kids to their games. I am on overload with work, because I have so many events going on this week. So they did me a great favor in taking them. If you want to be on my emergency list, just email me. Hee hee, ha ha. I know I am funny. The Bremners help us all the time. They are very good neighbors!

My brother is making me a table to put in my old bedroom, so I can fold clothes on it, and it won't be all over the walkway to Tracy's room. It's a huge problem here. The laundry and folding area, so he has come up with this plan. And I think it will really help. I sure hope so. I hate to lose my only private room, but, I also hate to walk on clean clothes, and they are all over the place. Yikes. (more info than you wanted I am sure)
Thanks for all the support we receive. We are very blessed!

Seminary Graduation

Bryce Taylor with Craig (buds since little)

Craig with Bro. Holman (the greatest seminary teacher!)

Linda, our next door neighbor had a birthday today. Tracy was so happy because he had already ordered her a special silver coin. It was the 100th anniversary of Braille. Linda seemed pleased. She wanted to see it with her hand, but it might ruin the coin if she takes it out of the plastic, but she's free to do what she wants with it. Tracy is so thoughtful!

Linda has lilac bushed outside of her house, so Kendra and Tracy were enjoying the wonderful smell.

Craig receiving his Sterling Scholar award





Today has been another eventful day. The kids had fun at the Mae Concert in Salt Lake. My sister, Kristin let them stay at her house overnight. They said her new house is coming along great and it's incredible! I cannot wait to see it myself!

We did make it to church today. Not on time, but we were there. That is what counts right?

Kendra and Ryen had their interviews with the bishop. They passed and are now able to be baptized on Saturday! Yeah!

This afternoon was the Senior Tea. Tracy didn't feel good enough to attend, so he stayed home, but I went. It was fun.

Directly after that, I came home and got Tracy so he could attend Seminary graduation.
Craig spoke at Seminary Graduation. He did a great job and we are very proud of him for his accomplishments. Tomorrow we continue our busy week schedule. Oh my!