Dancing Queens?

Jeewon and Sayuri finally were able to show off their ballroom dancing skills on Wednesday at the Weber School Districts "Christmas Tree Jubilee". As you will see they both did fantastic for only taking lessons 3 months. They are our Asian Dancing Queens!

Decorating Grandma's Christmas Tree

Everyone thinks it's too early to put up a tree, but I say it's never too early to put up your tree and Toby, Elly and Jeewon will agree. I have the Christmas Spirit already, and my first Christmas present was Henry. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2008!

HENRY CHUGG CARLTON, Ruler of Household

I just witnessed the birth of my 3rd grandchild, Henry Chugg Carlton, what an honor to be invited and allowed to see this. A sacred, glorious time when the spirit leaves heaven, and enters into the mortal realm of the human body. The birth was at 1:38a.m., November 13th. Jayni had been having contractions all day, and by evening they were every 5 minutes. They checked in at Davis Hospital, and called us after Jayni had her epidural. We arrived at 11:30 to await this special occasion. Jayni was intensely sick (nauseated) through the last portion of the delivery, but she handled it with grace, using extremely good manners to the nurse and Doctor. When little Henry's head popped through, I was amazed at the miracle of birth. The doctor gently pulled the ambilical cord from around Henry's head and helped the shoulders come through. Henry had very broad shoulders, making it difficult to finalize his birth. The Doctor had Jayni push one last time and that was all that was required. Henry came out lickety split. It all happened to fast, I wanted to savor the miracle a little longer. With Jayni's last push a wave of ambiotic fluid came too, unfortunately Henry swallowed a great deal of this fluid. The doctor said it was like getting dunked in a swimming pool. The doctor hurried and tried to suction all of it out, but to no avail, she handed Henry over to the nursery nurse to put him on oxygen. It was a little intense for a while. I seen Henry struggle for air until they put a tube down his throat to suction all the fluid out of his lungs. The nurse cleaned Henry up and weighed him. He was 7 pounds 10 ounces and measured 20 inches. The nurse wrapped Henry up and gave him to Jayni. Jayni was cleaned up by then looking healthy once again. (with the exception of not being able to move her legs ) Henry was still having trouble breathing, so the nurse took him into the nursery and put him on oxygen. I was concerned, but knew everything would be O.K. We said our goodbye's to Jayni with a hug and a kiss, then Andrew and I had one final peek at Henry before leaving at 2:30a.m. What an eventful night or morning? Though sleep deprived I could not sleep because of the excitement of the thought of having a brand new grandchild, HENRY CHUGG CARLTON!

ISLAND PARK, YELLOWSTONE, JACKSON HOLE IN A WEEKEND! WHEW!

PEACH DAYS!

O.K., I know that you think all I do is have fun on the weekends, but I do really work hard too, I just try to squeeze it all in. Last week Swiss Days, this week Peach Days and yes I ran another 10K. This week I ran a little slower than last week 47:14, but we started at 9am and it was hot. Plus I hate the last mile of this race. It is uphill on main street in Brigham City, going right through the parade route with everyone seeing you have a near death experience. The reward after is worth it however, as many peaches as you can eat. I went home a pregnant peach! We also stopped at Pettingills, and I picked up another 3 1/2 bushels of jammers to put up. They were sooooo good! I got sick stuffing my face while putting them up! I then put up 2 batches of vegetable soup. It is soooo yummy that I love to eat it in the cold winter months. The parade and car show was the best entertainment at peach days. Jee and Say ate breakfasts at Dicks, a local dive that they loved.

WARD MISSION LEADER!

WHOO HOO! I am so pumped.

They just put me in as a ward mission leader. I love this gospel so much and I know it changes peoples lives for the better. I love people, and I want everyone to have the peace and joy that the true gospel of Jesus Christ brings. I have seen a mighty change in Jeewon. She is so awesome. Her eyes reflect the joy she has being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I know Sayuri feels the spirit of the Lord in our home. One day she'll have a change of heart and love the gospel as we do. I love how the girls read the bible every morning with Andrew and I. It makes my heart swell hearing them all read the word of God! I am the richest woman in the whole world because I have the gospel of Jesus Christ.

SWISS DAYS! Jeewon, Sayuri and Susan's Midway adventure!

On Friday we went to Swiss Days in Midway Utah. Swiss Days is celebrated at the end of every August the weekend of Labor Day. Midway was settled by swiss immigrants who came to Utah because they were converted to the L.D.S. Church and wanted to be closer to the headquarters in Salt Lake City. Midway is about 1.5 hours away from Farr West. Aunt Marilyn lives there, so we took advantage of her hospitality and slept overnight at her house on the trampoline. It was cold, but Sari and Jee slept in very warm sleeping bags. I slept with a blanket getting up at 1am and moving into Aunt Marilyn's house to sleep on the couch. At 5am, I woke up and ran the Swiss Days 10K. It was a great race even though I had a contact stuck in my eye. Cool morning nice course, winning my age division and receiving a silver goblet. I was 13th overall with a time of 47:23 or 7:37 minute miles. I was proud of this time. I shaved off 5 minutes from my time in Irodoquoit. After the race we ate breakfast, and then went through all the artisan's booths. The craftmanship was unbelievable. Hundreds of booths of paintings, puzzles, metal works, soaps, lotions, potpourri, edibles, charts, flower arrangements and pottery. A portion of all sales go towards the Church's humanitarian service and missionary fund. The parade was cute, the food was delicious and the race was awesome.bb

Sayuri!

Sayuri an exchange student from Japan has come to live with Jeewon, Andrew and I, what an adventure we are going to have this year. Sayuri and her mother came on August 23rd. She is a very smart, hard working, and pleasant. We feel it a privilege to have her live with us. I know her and Jeewon will be the best of friends and sisters before the year is over. She registered for school and is taking accelerated courses. She is stretching herself as well taking cooking and singing. We are excited to learn the differences of yet another country and child of God.

A DREAM COME TRUE! THE HILL CUMORAH PAGEANT!

I can't believe I'm actually in the Hill Cumorah Pageant! This place is beautiful. The trees grow everywhere, it is humid and rainy, but that is why it is so beautiful. The 1st day July 4th, I ran the Irondoquoit 10K. I ran it in 53 minutes, and it about killed me. After the run I went to the George Eastman Mansion and toured it, then I went to the airport to be shuttled to the hill. After we arrived at the hill, we checked in and had our orientation. I looked at the schedule and about cried. The schedule was rigorous for a person who wakes up early and goes to bed early. Some nights we wouldn't be going back to Hobart until 2am!!! I knew I would die. After the orientation, we went to the bowl to be cast in our parts. I tried out for the dances and made the lamanite warrior dance. However the next day we found out they overcast our part by 4, so I said they could give me another part, since all the young girls looked as if they'd cry if they had to leave. They put me in as a Nephite Battle Banner Carrier. I have to carry a 20 pound metal pole banner across the stages up and down the stairs fighting the lamanites along the way. It is heavy and I knew I was going to kill myself or someone else the first few days, but that 8 foot banner kept getting lighter and lighter. Now it's a breeze to carry, even in the dark. We ate dinner that night, had our devotional, and started rehearsals. The next morning, I was up at 5am to run. I was so tired because we got back to Hobart College at midnight. Anyway I made an 8 mile run, then came back, ate breakfast and left for the hill at 7:30. At the hill we had devotionals, then rehearsal and missionary training all day. In our free time we quilted, made hats, leper bandages and cut out shapes for the humanitarian center. I kept thinking, I'm here to serve to keep a positive attitude. The days have been either rainy and cold, to hot and humid. One night we had to stop rehearsal because of a lightning storm. I was carrying the metal post during that storm! Augh! Anyway we came back into the shelter, prayed and sang 8 hymns, then we went back out on stage and ran through the entire play. It about killed us because we got home at 12:30am. The next morning everyone was dragging. The sacrament meetings here have been in the outdoor shelter. The first meeting sunny and dry with awesome speakers. Yesterday it rained and rained, but it was still inspiring. I led the 9-11 year olds in some folk dances yesterday. They were a handful, but I think they loved it. I only have one more activity left to do with them. The most exciting part of the pageant is the missionary work. Each night after devotional, we dress and go out to preach the gospel to people who come to the performance. I have had many opportunities to bear my testimony. I've told LDS members who come about Jeewon's conversion story, and the miracles that come from reading the Book of Mormon and bringing other's unto Christ. I have had many teens refer their friends and families refer their neighbors. Elder Bednar says we should be the seekers of non-members and the missionaries should be the teachers. The youth serving at the hill are strong in spirit and bold in deed. I respect them for their hard work and testimonies. They are an example to me. Today is activity day, and I'm going to have fun. Andrew get's to come to Hobart and we are going to play!!! Then tomorrow it's off to work again. We must share the gospel with others. That is our responsibility-every member a missionary. I LOVE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST!

NASHVILLE COUNTRY MUSIC MARATHON STATE # 6 (26.2 on April 26th my birthday!)

O.K., I know I'm crazy! I just finished the Yakima Valley Marathon and felt pretty good right? Why did I have to push it, other than to say I ran 26.2 on the 26th, my birthday. Andrew wanted to go and so did Jeewon, so we made a family trip out of it to celebrate my birthday. The airline tickets were reasonable, the car we rented was with my american express blue points and we stayed at a hostel in the hood. Since we just went with carry-ons we jumped off the airplane, rented the car, and hustled to the movie theatre to watch the movie MARATHON. (It was only playing one night) It motivated Andrew so much that the next day at the expo, he signed up to run the marathon without even training. NUTS!!! The expo was a 10+, Very fun. After the expo, we went to the Nashville Temple. The temple is in the most beautiful part of Nashville. The houses surrounding the temple were southern mansions with beautiful sprawling lawns in front. I did an endowment, but Andrew couldn't baptize for the dead until 6:00pm when the workers would be there. So while I was in the session, Jeewon and Andrew went on an adventure to an old plantation of a confederate general, where many confederate soldiers were buried. That evening Andrew baptized for the dead. Many southern gents will someday thank Andrew for his service. Jeewon and I went to a ward dinner and talent show in the church house adjacent to the temple. We had a good time. The sister missionaries told us that the county the temple resides in is one of the most wealthiest counties in the country. Did I mention hot it was in Nashville? 80 degrees. I knew I would die in the marathon. I had trained in 29 degree weather a week before! I went to bed early to prepare for the marathon after a meal of rice cakes, tuna and carrots. In the middle of the night we were all startled by the sound of rolling thunder. Rain was pouring down, and did not stop. Andrew and I went out to run the marathon in pouring rain, and it really rains in Nashville. We had jackets thank goodness,I now prepare for all things. The start was very organized. We tossed our extra clothes in UPS trucks, grabbed some food and waited in a porta potty line. It was warm in the porta potties. I stayed as long as I could. Andrew felt sorry for me and gave me his jacket he was going to toss. The race started at 8am. Andrew ditched me after the first mile when I had to use the porta potty again! I tried to warn him not to start out too fast, but he didn't listen. I ran the Country Music mile (CMA sponsers that mile) and was given cute sweat bands after completing it. We also ran through alot of historical country music sections of town. The Reiman, country music museum etc. One dissapointment! There were too many people to start. The 1/2 marathon started with the marathoners. I couldn't get set into a good pace because of the quantity of runners. After 13 miles, it was enjoyable. The reason Nashville is so green, is because of the rain. The rain eased up at about mile 10. It was cloudy to about mile 18, then it started to get really warm when I finished. One poignant memory that I'll always remember was the black man outside of the housing project we ran through. He reached his hand out to give me a high five, and I gave him one. After I gave him one he said I aint nobody, I aint worth nothing, but if it means anything to you I support you and respect what your doing. I felt like stopping and giving him a hug and saying but don't you know your a child of God and he doesn't make any junk. Also the nun water stop was a fun memory. The bands were good, but alot didn't show up at first because of the rain. I loved the part of the run where you ran beside the cumberland river, and also the end where you ran around Shelby Park. It was drop dead gorgeous, all the dogwoods were in bloom. I finished in 3:54 and Andrew around 4:57 I think, because he lost his timing chip on the road. Not bad for no training. I passed the poor little bum at 13 miles. He tried to stay with me, but his legs were cramping up every time he tried to run. He was on his own through this hilly race. I was suprised at how hard it was, (Mentally hard because of the out and back turn around the last 8 miles of the race. You seen runners finishing when you still had 8 to go). But, they had great food at the finish. I was so EXCITED TO FINISH. After I picked up my bag and finally found Andrew,and the car we stopped and bought us (Jeewon, Andrew, and Faith, a friend we met that takes care of the hostel. She was a friend to Jeewon and helped her a ton!)a treat at Dairy Queen. We then went back to the hostel for a picture with our other buddy we met at the hostel, Amos from California before he left to fly home. He was so nice, an uncommonly good man. We showered and were ready to go to the show at the Grand Ol' Opry. I took them to the Opryland hotel first to look around the massive arboretum. The hotel's amazing. Jeewon couldn't believe it. She probably wondered why I didn't rent a room there! $$$$ They show was fun at the Opera. Andrew couldn't walk of coarse, and asked me to take him to the hospital. I told him to buck up! If he wants to play the big boy games he has to be a big boy! Of course we had to climb stairs to the balconey. We slept good that night even though it continued to drizzle. The next morning we went to church. I was an hour ahead of myself, I forgot to turn my watch ahead, so we had an hour to waste. Andrew pulled up an arboretum on the GPS by the temple that was by far one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. They were not open yet, but Jeewon and I walked around while Andrew slept. The church meeting was awesome. Sh-Daisy's husband was the high councilman who spoke. Jeewon can't believe how the church is the same no matter where we go! The ward was very wealthy. CEO'S, Heart Doctors, Country music performers, Song writers, Franchise Owners, all humbly attending church together. After church we went downtown to the Country Music Museum, which we could only stay for about an hour because they were having a big affair that night inducting 2 new musicians to the hall of fame. Then we went to the Reiman, where country music got it's start. We poked our heads into a few bars to hear some country music, and felt the spirit leave us completely. We hated the horrible feeling there, so we went to the park where the marathon started read scriptures and rested. Then we went back to the hostel to say goodbye to our friends and pack for an early morning flight out of Nashville the next day. I would rate the trip and marathon about at an 7. If my feet didn't look like prunes at the end of the race because of all the rain, I would have rated the race at an 8!!!

NO FEAR SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

Psalms 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life of whom shall I be afraid? Psalms 56:4 In God I have put my trust I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. 2 Timothy 1:17 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear byt of power and of love and of a sound mind. 1 John 4:18 Perfect love casteth out fear. D&C 101 36-37 Wherefore fear not even unto death for in this world your joy is not full but in me your joy is full, therefore care not for the body neither the life of the body but care for the soul and for the life of the soul. D&C 136:17 Go thy way and do as I have told you and fear not thine enemies for they shall not have power to stop my work.
QUESTIONS: Something in your life that is hard for you right now or that you don't really like....

Book of Mormon Questions

I love the Book Of Mormon and I know it is true. I know Heavenly Father inspired prophets long ago write sacred words and covenants that he wants each of us to know and learn. These prophets were inspired to write their wisdom, testimonies, and love for Heavenly Father and their people in this book. These writings help us in this day and age if we read them and act upon them. I have read this book many times, and everytime I read it I learn how much love my Heavenly Father and Jesus have for me and all mankind. The Book Of Mormon helps me realize that there is a plan for me, yes little old me. If I am obedient to God's will miracles unfold and joy permeates my entire being. Not just happiness or a temporary high, but true JOY!

How do I know the Book of Mormon is True? On the title page of the Book of Mormon, Mormon (who is one of the last prophets to write in this book) notes the purposes of the Book of Mormon. 1.to show unto the remnant of the House of Israel what great things the Lord hath done for their fathers; that they may 2.know the covenants of the Lord,3.that they are not cast off forever-and also to 4.the convincing of the Jew and Gentile that JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE ETERNAL GOD, manifesting himself unto all nations....
Question: In what ways have you seen these purposes fulfilled in your life and in the lives of others? The Book of Mormon is another testament of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Bible is the word of God and the Book of Mormon supports that fact. The reading of both these books has given me a firm testimony of God and his son Jesus Christ. In return I have been able to share my testimony with others, of which I love and am truly grateful.
QUESTION: How has the Book of Mormon helped you "get nearer to God"? When I have hard times or trials in my life, reading the Book of Mormon gives me peace. For instance, one night I couldn't go to sleep. I kept thinking about temporal things. How am I going to pay my bills, what if I get sick and can't support my family,(I'm divorced), how am I going to keep up my house and yard etc. I picked up my scriptures and began to read. I came to a story in Alma. The sons of Mosiah decided to become full time missionaries. Their Father was concerned about them. He asked them how they would support themselves. They replied to their Father "God takes care of the lillies in the field and the birds in the sky, he will take care of us". I thought Heavenly Father knows of my fears and stop worrying, he will take care of me. How much closer can you get to your Heavenly Father and Jesus except through reading the scriptures.
QUESTION:What can we do to make our scripture study more meaningful? In our family we wake up early in the morning. 6:30 a.m. we begin reading. We usually start with a song, then a prayer asking for the spirit to be with us. We then read and discuss the scriptures. We try to get through 1 chapter a day, but we are not bound to this. I like to have discussions with the family on versus we read that pertain to our family situations. After we read we end with prayer. I believe this daily ritual has helped us get through each day prepared to tackle everything that comes our way. Prepare and defend your family through daily scripture reading.
QUESTION: What are spome passages from the Book of Mormon that have "cheered and comforted" you? 4 Nephi 1:15-18 After the Lamanites and Nephites walked and talked with the savior, they had no desire to do evil. They loved each and served each other like Christ. How wonderful the world would be if we loved each other like this? Moroni 8:16 Moroni wants us to be bold in all righteousness. He states: I fear not want man can do; for perfect love casteth out all fear. Again perfect love or charity will always reign supreme.
QUESTION: In what ways has the Book of Mormon enlightened your understanding? The book is simple. It teaches concepts that are staight forward. For example, Laman and Lemuel were disobedient to their Father and the Lord, Nephi and Sam were obedient. Before Lehi their father died he bestowed all his rights and priviledges of the priesthood to Nephi because he was obedient, even though Laman was the elder brother. Simple truth: If you are obedient you will have peace and be blessed.

GENERAL CONFERENCE SPRING 2008

Listening to conference this morning I am reminded how much I love this gospel. I know President Monson is a true prophet of the Lord Jesus Christ. I know this as I know this is the only true church on the face of this earth. I don't say this out of pride, but out of sincere humility. I respect other religions, and I love everyone, but I know the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints if the only true church on the face of this earth today. It is Jesus Christ's church. We are his servants and I need to follow more closely his example of service, love, faith, patience and compassion. I love Jesus Christ. He is my brother. I know I am a Child Of God, my spirit his one of royal offspring. I know this because the Holy Ghost has whispered this to me the truth of these things. I know the Holy Ghost is real and when I am living right, it is my constant companion. I KNOW THIS. I know Joseph Smith was and is a prophet and received the golden plates from an Angel named Moroni. He then translated them with help into the Book Of Mormon. Those plates contained a record of early inhabitants of the people in the Americas. These plates that were translated are called the Book of Mormon. I LOVE THE BOOK OF MORMON! It teaches us right from wrong, and how to avoid the pitfalls that can come to us if we are not obedient. I feel peace when I read the Book Of Mormon. The Holy Ghost has witnessed to me that the Book Of Mormon is true. I also love the Bible. With both of these sets of scriptures, we can have true knowledge of where we came from, what we are doing here on earth, and where we will go after death. It is so comforting to know this. I have faith, love and hope when I read these books. I LOVE THE SCRIPTURES! They are the only books I have re-read several times. The only books I need! I know my religion gives me greater joy and happiness. I would be nothing without it. I hope and pray that anyone who reads this blog, will read the Book Of Mormon, and then to ask God and Jesus Christ for a testimony of it's truthfulness. I know it's true and you can know too.

5th State Marathon! Yahoo Yakima!

Yes, I completed Yakima YAHOO! My time wasn't as good as I thought it would be, but with a head wind that made me feel as if I was running in place at times and the coarse being windey and slanted I figure I did A.O.K.! At mile 22 there was a hill that reminded me of Jackson Pass in Victor Idaho. I couldn't believe how long and steep it was for an entire mile and a half. My legs were shakey after that hill, and a cramp attacking me at mile 23 in my right achilles, OUCH! After massaging the cramp out I took it easy the rest of the way in. The rest stops did need to have some power gel of some sort, instead of Rice Krispie squares, M and M's and Gummi's. They did have gatorade and water however. The T-shirts were old fashioned but cute, and the medal was cute but very cheap. The expo, what expo? They did have a pasta party, but we didn't go, and a dinner after the race which we didn't attend either because Jayni needed to get home. The babies had had it! What I did enjoy was the people, they were so friendly, in fact an old lady was giving everyone hugs as they finished the marathon. It was so cute. She then handed all the female runners a rose. Very personable! I love small marathons because of this reason. The number that entered the race was 500, that's all! Small and quaint. (Probably because of the coarse, no record-breakers here)! I also enjoyed meeting runners from all over the world. The marathon runners here were die-hards. Most of them running 100 plus marathons! This marathon was their reunion marathon. I got alot of great ideas from them to complete my other 45 states! I also loved the beauty of the run. Running through a canyon with a huge river flowing at the side of you what's not to love? BEST OF ALL HOWEVER, WAS BEING WITH MY GRANBABIES AND JAYNI. I WAS SO THRILLED TO SEE THEM AT MILE 25. Jayni looked like she had just completed the marathon keeping those two little racals occupied for 2 hours. I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH! WHAT A FABULOUS CHRISTMAS PRESENT! THANK YOU JAYNI, JAKE AND KIDS!

YAKIMA VALLEY Marathon?

Yes, I'm posting this in Yakima Washington. You wonder why I am here? Jayni and Annie gave me this trip to me for a Christmas present! To run a marathon in Yakima Valley! What a fun present, expecially after Jayni drove the coarse today. It looks like the coarse is 95% uphill. Oh well, I hope I don't die! The valley we are running through is absolutely gorgeous however, but I thought Sedona was gorgeous as well. I think I'm in trouble! Elly and Toby are doing good through the long hours sitting in the car. You see Jayni thought I could use a buddy pass to get to Spokane, then drive down for one night in Yakima. However, the flights were all full to Spokane, so I had to catch a plane to the tri-cities. We stayed one night in Kennewick at a Red Lion Hotel. I had the best sleep of my life. The bed was a king size bed that we all shared. It was so soft and the pillows were so fluffy! I felt like a princess. We took the kids to a park on the Columbia river. It was a darling castle park. The play equipment was awesome. Then we went down by the river and let the kids throw rocks in. They loved it. We then went to "Horton Hears a Who". Elly loved it! She giggled through the whole movie. I slept like a baby , except for Elly kicking me a couple of times. Anyway we woke up and traveled through a little city called Sunnyville, where we took the Dairygold cheese tour. They gave out free cheese like Gossner's and Elly had a bubblegum ice cream cone. The cheese was yummy, but did it stink of cow manure, 10 times worse than Farr West. I've picked up my race packet and now we've checked into our hotel (Howard Johnson's) in a very graffiti filled area of town, which by the way isn't as nice as the Red Lion. I've just eaten my last supper before the big race tomorrow. Get this it's cloudy, raining, and very windy. Just my luck! I hope it will be better tomorrow, but I'm prepared! So yes this whole Yakima Christmas present is turning out to be better than I thought, so far?! I'll keep you posted.

SPRING BREAK?

This is what we did for Spring break! FUN HUH? Jeewon planted peas, Andrew pruned and I did it both. When we got tired, all we had to think of was the huge apples we get in the fall, and the yummy produce in the summer. Then Jeewon and I cleaned the whole house. The next day we were sore but we still managed to go to Temple Square and shopping at the Gateway. We stayed overnight at Annie and Andy's where we watched movies, dyed Easter eggs, ate popcorn, and pizza and I ZONKED OUT, after running 15 miles that morning. I was no fun at all! The next morning was Easter. Jeewon and I read articles on Christ from the ensign, then we ate dyed Easter eggs, banana chocolate chip muffins and drank Orange Julius'. Annie had us an Easter present that morning. She gave me gum and Jeewon putty with a card. HOW SWEET! We then went to see Annie and Andy's Choir Performance. Annie directed the choir. Andy and Annie both had solo parts in the program. Annie's direction of the choir was remarkable, and her solo was fantastic. Andy's was too! What talent those two have. WE LOVE YOU BOTH!

POOEY IS 18!

My baby boy is now 18! I can't believe it. One more year and he'll be on his mission. I've loved raising Andrew. Yes he's stubborn, hates school work, likes his own way and he especially doesn't like to obey, but he's kind, considerate, loves the Lord and the scriptures, compassionate, hard working, eager to go to church and serve others, a peacemaker, cheerful, easy going, want's to do what's right, thoughtful and loves to please others. Who can ask for any more? I love Andrew with all my heart. Thanks for being my son!

MY SUPERSTAR!

THE LEPRECHAUN TREE!

WOW!

Lucky Us! We Have Each Other

Our St. Patty's Day Family!

GREEN AND GOLD GALA!

Our annual Green and Gold Gala was held on Sunday. We had alot of fun gobbling down the green!

Farr West Crud/Jeewon's Spirit/Andrew's Birthday/New Cooking Tools/Books I've Read

Now we've all had the Farr West crud we don't want to go there again, ever! I so appreciate my health, we all feel much better this week. Jeewon was so sick we had to take her to the doctor. She was given an antibiotic, and it cleaned up her diarrhea, thank goodness. I had a coughing attach on Friday night, but after taking Mucinex, I was able to sleep Saturday night YES! Fast and testimony meeting was Sunday. I always look forward to Sunday of the month. I love to hear others bear their testimonies. It always makes mine grow stronger. I especially love to hear how the gospel has helped change lives. I was reading the new testament with Jeewon the other day, and as we were reading Acts, a story of Cornelius caught my attention. Cornelius was a good man, always paying alms, and helping those in need. He had a dream and in that dream the lord told him to go and find Peter who would teach him the gospel. The next day he sent his men to find Peter. Peter had a dream also to go to this man. To make a long story short, Cornelius was taught and converted to the church by Peter. But what I thought was interesting is that Cornelius had the Holy Ghost to help him choose right from wrong because he was so good. He didn't have the gift of the Holy Ghost yet, but he did have his spirit. If he would have refused to go get Peter, he would have lost the Holy Ghost, but because he was an obedient man, he did what the Lord said and the Lord bestowed the spirit of the Holy Ghost upon him so he could know right from wrong. Cool huh! I always thought everyone was born with the spirit of Christ, or a conscience, but in this passage of scripture some have actually been given the spirit of the Holy Ghost. I think this is Jeewon's story. She is such a good person, and I know she has the spirit of the Holy Ghost, not the gift yet until she is confirmed but the spirit. She is so sensitive to right and wrong. A good kid. I know Heavenly Father has special plans for her. After reading this story, I looked up at her and said "Jeewon this is your story". She understood! Andrew will be legal age on FRIDAY. Today he won Rascal Flat tickets from a local radio show, so I guess that's where he will be on Friday. He's a good boy too. I am so blessed to have some wonderful kids living with me. Today I made Kim Chee, and ate about half the bottle. I love that stuff. I'm swollen up like a pig because of the high sodium content, but it is totally worth it. I also bought a yogurt maker and pressure cooker. I love them both so much! I can make rice in 3 minutes, and yummy yogurt in 10 hours. I know a big difference in time, but the yogurt is to die for. I also finished reading, Airborn. It was a fun boy book! I am now on the Goose Girl. I love to read. LOVE YOU ALL, HAVE A GOOD WEEK!

THE LAND OF THE DEAD!

AAUGH! That's what I felt like Thursday evening. So cold that even sitting in front of the fireplace with a coat on couldn't warm me up! My body pain was so intense that I woke up every 3 hours during the night just to take another advil! If this is what the flu was, I wanted to die! I haven't been sick in a long time, all those years of good health I took for granted. Friday I couldn't exercise now that's sick! I layed on the couch in pain. However, Friday night I couldn't sleep either, so I decided to go run 12 miles. I figured I couldn't be in any more pain! Saturday I actually felt better after I ran! Andrew gave this to us. He came down with it on Monday. Friday I picked up Jeewon at school with the same flu like symptoms. She's been deathly sick ever since. She's by far the worst out of all of us. I'm doing pretty good now. I still am congested, and have a cough, like Andrew's, but Jeewon has the rocky mountain two step every time she eats. I feel so sorry for her. I've tried everything I can think of to get her well. Tomorrow we'll visit the Dr's office if she hasn't improved. I made my own probiotic yogurt and made smoothies for her then I've given her acidophilus. I'm hoping this will work! I thank Heavenly Father every day for my health. When you have your health you have everything.

GROUNDED! The chronicles of pain!

Plantar Faciatis stinks! After last weeks marathon, I've had an annoying pain in the side of my foot. After being in denial thinking it would go away, yesterday I ran 10 miles! It was 12 degrees! My water I was carrying had ice crystals floating in it when I got home, and I couldn't keep my hands warm except by keeping them down my pants. I even had hand warmers?! Fun Huh! Anyway, my foot felt a little painful out on the run, but after one hour, I could hardly walk on it. I was so mad at myself for abusing the injury, I just thought it would go away. Anyway this morning I ordered some heel seats, that are guaranteed to take the pain away. They are orthodics that you stick inside your shoe. I hope they work, or Yakima Valley Marathon is extinct! One other note, Andrew came upstairs limping this morning too. I asked him what he did and he said played basketball with the Elders. His heel hurts so bad he's walking on tippy-toe. Plantar Faciatis strikes the second member of the Larsen Fam! I need to order him some heel seats! Andrew has it worse than me, he can't even walk. These lovely HOLLEY arthritic genes! Everyone beware out there, or PLANTAR FACIATIS might strike you this week! Andrew is so young to have this problem. PF comes from overuse, and I found a ton of exercises to do if you have it, so I'm grounded from running and it looks as if biking and rowing is my new hobby for a while! DANG!

The Good, the Bad and the Beautiful! The Sedona Marathon

Yes! This week I completed my 21st Marathon in Sedona Arizona! I've ran a marathon in 4 states so far! I thought this would be an easy run, Ha, Ha! It was an out and back coarse, so everytime I went downhill, I knew I'd have to come back up! 1/2 of the coarse was on dirt the other half on asphalt and everything was either up or down, nothing flat! Even though the coarse was wicked (I have a blood blister the size of the Mt.Everest on the side of my right big toe), the scenery was drop dead gorgeous. Strawberry Clif blocks and prayer was the only way I got through this one, and of coarse imagining myself as a strong Apache Horse?! Your brain goes at about mile 23! It took me 4 hours and 14 minutes to complete, but I still came out with 3rd place in my age group. The winning time was 3:05, fast considering the coarse. Jeewon and Andrew were my travel companions. Sedona is famous for the red rock and unique rock formation that abound everywhere! We were able to make out snoopy, a coffee pot, 2 sisters, the madonna, a cathedral, chimney rock, and Charlie Brown, however we couldn't see the grasshopper at grasshopper point. Jeewon enjoyed the South entrance of the Grand Canyon(even though it was covered with snow), and the warm, sunny weather best. Andrew enjoyed the food, (dairy queen chocolate covered ice cream cones), and watching T.V. in the hotel, (king of the remote)! Not really, he enjoyed the hike we took around cathedral rock teasing Jeewon of rattlesnakes the whole way! We called our car the Yellow Submarine. It was a Chev Aveo, and the gas mileage was unbelievable. Andrew took it on the back roads where the pink jeep adventure tours go and it cruised through the rocky terrain and pot holes. The only problem was Jeewon, since she had to ride in the back, she squealed every time Andrew hit a bump and Andrew made sure he didn't miss one bump on the road! She was thankful to see asphalt again, and so was I, thank goodness for car rental insurance! I enjoyed Heavenly Father's creations! The hue of the sky in the morning, a blue that is only seen in dreams. The aiport sunset shadowing against the rock formations in ripples of golden light and the warmth of the terra cotta earth drawing you in to soak up its healing energy. The marathon was nothing in comparison for the love I felt for my Heavenly Father and his creations. Jeewon asked me how it was made, I told her, Heavenly Father and Jesus!

BUCKET LIST!

Comment on the things you want to do before you kick the bucket!

President Hinckley/Bucket List/My Testimony

Try a little harder to do a little better

is a famous quote President Hinckley once said. I've been thinking about his life this week. He dedicated his whole life to the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was free to choose (as we all are in this life) what he wanted to do in life, and he chose to serve the lord. He loved Jesus Christ and had a firm testimony of him. It was clearly expressed through the volumns of service he rendered each day until his death at 97. He knew what true joy was. Joy is not found in the things we have or own that decay with time or are abandoned at death, but in the little acts of love and service we give to others. Jeewon and I went to the movies yesterday. We seen the Bucket List. This movie was about two men who were dying of cancer. They met each other in the hospital. Together they became friends, and made a list of things they wanted to do before they kicked the bucket! At first their list was all temporal, and then it became soon became spiritual. They realized that the things most important in life were not things! It was FAMILY and THEIR STRENGTH OF CHARACTER. One wonderful part of the movie was when they were contemplating life after death. The one said to the other there's a belief that when you die there will be two questions asked: 1."Did you find joy in life?", and 2. "Did you bring that joy to others?" After our family viewed President Hinckley's funeral, we knew he had fulfilled both of these questions. The love everyone had for this prophet of God was evident as we witnessed his funeral. HE LOVED AS JESUS LOVES, he was able to bring joy to others because he had so much joy to give. I loved this prophet, as I have loved the other prophets. They were all true prophets of the Lord Jesus Christ. I would like to bear my testimony. I know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are real, their bodies are made of flesh and bones and that they love each of us very much. They have a plan for each of us that will bring us complete joy, if we choose to follow it. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only true church on the face of the earth. The other churches are wonderful, and have unbelievable members, but their doctrine has holes in it. The church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has the full light and knowledge of the original church of Jesus Christ. There are no holes in this church. This church will guide us through the straight and narrow path back to our Savior, Jesus Christ. I know Joseph Smith restored this church and went through much tribulation even unto death choosing to be obedient to the our Father in Heaven and his son Jesus Christ in bringing this the only true church to the earth. I know the Book Of Mormon is the word of God. It is a perfect book that teaches us (with the help of the Holy Spirit) everything we need to know to gain exhaltation. I know Joseph Smith translated this book from gold plates with Heavenly Father's help. I know we are led by a true and living prophet now being President Monson. I will pray for and support this man of God to the upmost of my being, as like the other prophets the lord has ordained. I love my Savior Jesus Christ. He is my brother, my Redeemer, the rock in which I am built. I could do nothing without him. I have complete faith that we will have joy in our lives and be able to give joy to others if we try a little harder to be a little better in following our Savior, Jesus Christ. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. What would be on your Bucket List?

POOEY! Winter Ball Royalty

Who would ever guess Pooey would be nominated for Winter Ball Royalty? He was so cute greeting his partner Jo Gullo on the Fremont stage with a twirl and dip Friday. He looked handsome too! White suspenders, black shirt, black pants, white tie, and black and white shoes! Oooo La La! I can't believe every girl didn't attack him right then and there. His date for the ball was Brittany Cook. She's a cute girl who was also nominated for royalty. Pooey forgot to order flowers and informed on the way home from his Honor Choir Perfomance Saturday, that he needed them. After hitting several stores, we found some gorgeous white roses at Costco. After picking up white ribbon at Walmart, Suzanne my savior put it all together. It was a gorgeous bouquet. Brittany came and picked up Pooey. She looked so cute and together they were a striking couple. Poo said that they ate at Mimi's, where he had gumbo soup and salad. "It was the funnest dance I ever went to" he said. It sounds like they didn't worry about impressing each other, they just had fun! P.S. His honor choir performance at Abravanal Hall was unbelievable. Mr. A was the boy's choir conductor. He's a brilliant musician who loves what he does. The boys really look up to him. Andrew say's he's cool, but I think he's just plain fun!

Justin's 28!

I can't believe my oldest son is 28! To celebrate we went to Crystal Hot Springs, where we soaked and enjoyed the warm hot springs. Annie, Andy, JeeWon, and I took the Alaskan Plunge three times! That's when you jump into the cold pool, from the hot pots. Annie screamed even before she hit the cold water, scaring us half to death! The rest of us screamed after we hit the water. The last time we plunged however, I got a brain freeze that involved a headache. We couldn't get Justin to take the plunge. Tina took it once. After soaking a couple of hours, we had had enough. Our skin was wrinkled like prunes and we were itchy from the salty water. We were all hungry so we found a Chinese restaurant in Brigham City. The food and staff was great. Annie made Justin a cake, so we headed for home to open presents and eat cake. Justin received a card game (King's Crown) from Annie and Andy, a Paul Pott's C.D. from me, and pho from Jayni and Jake. We played King's Crown until Tina threatened to take the keys and go home. JeeWee won! She was the life of the party. We all became delirious after she snorted and one time she made us laugh so hard we cried! The game was mega fun, and Jayni I did not cheat! Justin has so much hot air, that he had no trouble blowing out all the candles, even the trick ones. The cake was delicious, even though Justin threw his in the garbage! (He's on the South Beach diet) Happy Birthday Bup! WE LOVE YOU!

A WILD WEEKEND IN SPOKANE!

How much fun can you have in one weekend?

I try to squeeze 5 days of vacation fun into 3

every time I go see Jayni, Jake and family in

Spokane. I missed my first flight and caught my second arriving Thursday eve at 11:00 pm. Poor Jakes having to pick me up! I flew on a small plane, so I arrived a little sick to boot! Anyway the next morning was worth it all! I crawled in bed with Elly and whispered that Grandma Suzy was here with some fun presents for her and Toby. She was so excited! She opened her big present, which was a stuffed horse she immediately named "Old Blue". She wasn't sure she liked him at first, asking me that didn't I know she wanted the blonde horse? Oh Well I told her the blonde horsey was scarey and knew she would take good care of "Old Blue". She attached to him after a while, and all was fine! She had a great time taking care of him while I was there. Elly put on her horsey shirt and her pink cowboy boots, and was a cowgirl princess the rest of the day. We played most of the morning and then Jake and I went to Spokane Discount while Elly had Joy School. We got some fantastic deals there. After lunch, we played some more then me and Jayni went to Spokane Discount for some more fantastic deals. Needless to say, I'm sick of Spokane Discount. After a super dinner of refried beans Jayni prepared, Jake picked up Andrew at the airport that night while I fell asleep with the kids. The next morning Jake, Andrew and I woke up early. They played basketball with the missionaries, and I ran 2 1/2 hours, in the stake center. The stake center wasn't to bad to run in actually I listened to Jan Karon's Home to Holly Hills. It's a great book. After our run, we cleaned ourselves up. Then Jake and Andy went and picked up the cake, pizza and other party needs, while Jayni and I cleaned and prepared for Toby's birthday party. Guests arrived at noon and the party began. Pizza, and drinks for everyone. Then the Shiny Dinah Musical Birthday Party began. At first, it started out a little wierd, but then the adults broke down and started to play with their kids and finally they began to have fun! After the party, Toby tried to blow out his candle, the cake was cut, and Toby pigged out on his cake! He made a mess! How fun it was to watch little Tobs eat his cake! Elly enjoyed having all her friends there to play with too. After the guests left and clean up was done, we all relaxed! That night we played games, and watched videos. The games were highly competitive! The next morning, we went to church. I went to Elly's sunbeam class. Elly was a so cute singing head, shoulders, knees and toes in front of the whole primary. She loves to sing! Elly raised her hand on every question asked, and loved every minute learning to choose the right. After Jake taught his sunday school class, he took us to the airport. We left in a hurry forgetting some important things. While in transit to the airport, Toby fell asleep. As Jake was going over bumps in the road, Toby's little choppers jiggled. I couldn't help but kiss him the whole way. He's so cute, as well as Elly. I love you all so much! One thing Elly said in her prayer Saturday night that tickled me was she told Heavenly Father that she was grateful for the jewelry box that Grandma Suzy bought her and JeeWon. Thank you Jake and Jayni for a wild weekend!

Rexburg Temple Open House

No, I didn't want to drive to Rexburg during the worst winter on record, but after JeeWon said, "Susan have Faith", I knew I had to go. We left after church on Sunday. The roads were scary, but we made it! Coming into Rexburg you could see the temple high on the hill. It looked like the Temple was on fire. You couldn't miss it. Accidents abound through the streets of Rexburg, but we made it to our hotel without an incident. The next morning I ran in 9 degree weather. The wind was unbearable! Our reservation was for 7:30 a.m. I cleaned the snow and ice off the windows, and after our continental breakfast, we ran to the car. We parked in an LDS church parking lot and was shown a short video inside the church about temples. Then we walked up to the temple in a hallway of covered canopies. It was supposed to be heated, but it was freezing! Some darling young men and young women covered our feet with booties before we could enter. As we entered the bottom floor, JeeWon's tummy started hurting. I think she was too excited, she knew that the temple was indeed the house of God. We seen the baptismal font first, (which JeeWon thought was the neatest), then we toured the entrance, changing rooms, chapel, endowment rooms, the sealing rooms and then the celestial room. I loved the murals that was painted in the endowment rooms. Brother Parsons painted scenes of the Grand Teton National Park, representing the earthly life we now live in. It was phenomenal. I showed JeeWon the mirrors in the sealing room representing eternity. The wood in the Temple came from Africa. There was not a nail hole in anywhere in the wood, it all had all been glued. The marble was from Italy, and patterns of wheat were etched through the carpet. The pattern of wheat was also duplicated in the stained glass windows. The celestial room had crystal chandeliers hanging. Over 500 crystals in each light, it was gorgeous. Even though I didn't want to drive to Rexburg, It was all worth it knowing JeeWon and Andrew were able to see the Temple, the house of God. JeeWon might never have this opportunity again. I think Andrew liked listening to the book on tape we had playing the most. It was called Remembering Christmas, a fun Christmas book that everyone enjoyed.

Christmas 2007