MUSINGS FROM THE ROCKING CHAIR

BRIDGES OVER MULLER PARK

2009-10-31T21:19:00.000-07:00

Saturday we met some of our children, and a photographer, at Muller Park in Bountiful. The weather was chilly, but bearable. The tall Aspen trees swayed in the breeze, they beconed me, "come a little closer". The river was running very low as if to say, "please come sit on my rocks and enjoy this peace one more time. Which I did, as my 8 precious grandchildren ligned up across the bridge. As I looked at them all together my heart skipped a beat. I give thanks each day to be able to see this sight and to know that they are mine. There is history in the love that I feel for their parents. History that will be passed on to their children. It's important to me that the part of the story that I play is filled with imaganation and creativity, with a love of God and all his children, with endless devotion to family, and with purpose and meaning.

ONE IS SILVER AND THE OTHER IS GOLD

2009-10-31T21:17:00.000-07:00

You all remember the little saying, "Make new friends, but keep the old, one is Silver and the Other is Gold. I grew up having that thought in my mind at a young age. I don't remember where I heard it from, but it seamed to always be on my mind. As I grew up I lived in the same place, same friends, same neighborhood, everything. I often wondered why that saying was planted so deeply in my mind.

When I married, at the age of 19, I quickly found a love of making where ever we lived into our home. I had many opportunities to recreate and redecorate. You see, school and work (and economizing) have allowed us to move 21 times.

I wouldn't trade any one of those moves for anything. You see, I have been making friends for 38 years. Some are old and some are new! Some are Silver and some are Gold! All of them have a special place in my heart. All of them have shared something of great worth with me - themselves.

I understand now why that little saying was planted so deeply in my heart. I have come to understand that the most important thing to me -- are the relationships I make with the people that cross my path. Weather it be, my family, my friends, or the women down the street. I am so blessed to be touched by so many.

As we approach this next month, the month of Thanksgiving, I pray that we will pause - and give thanks to our friends, weather they be Silver or Gold.

31 YEARS OLD

2009-10-31T21:14:00.000-07:00

Do you believe the saying, "Time heals all wounds? I believe it's true. You see I have been so preoccupied with Halloween this year that I completely forgot about my sweet Casey Collett's, would have been, 31st birthday. It was October 14th. It just dawned on me yesterday. John and I were in Ogden and he drove to the Cemetary and said that he wanted to visit his daughter and wish her happy birthday. This is the first year I've forgotten.

31 years ago, she was born. Born with too many problems to live. Born with a strong spirit and a strong will. Born with the ability to indure everything that was passed to her. She was indeed a miracle. Her broken but always giving heart, kept beating until her parents were humbled enough, to recognize that the Lords Will, needed to be done in her behalf.

That little girl left an impact on alot of people. Especially me! My Daughter, I've missed so many special moments with her in this life - but - I look forward to a brighter day when I can touch her face - and - hear her say - Mamma

Birthday Surprise - White Wednesday

2009-10-06T20:08:00.001-07:00

Let's see, I've got a birthday coming up this month what shall I make for her?
How about another Retro Mae vintage design jumper, designed by Jane Mckinlay Cluff and custom made by me. She'll look like my pillows. With a lovely off white flower pin that I found from Claire's in the University Mall. Of course she will need a new little bag to match, that will hold her lib gloss and gum. It is designed using matching material, a handmade ecru crochet doily from her grandma great and very old ecru buttons. I want to find something really cool for the handle. Of course I will throw in a scrappy book mark with a cool button on it. She reads all the time.

Go over and visit Faded Charm and all the other paticipents of White Wednesday.

Happy Birthday dear Dallin,

2009-10-05T13:43:00.001-07:00

Birthday party for Dallin. We are all so happy for him. He's moving up North. He's going to live in Aunt Marcia's home while she is on her second mission.

Our party consisted of chili, breadstix, Nothing Bunt Cake and icecream. Cookies, non fat chex mix and total fat halloween mix. Presents, Baloons and family. Oh, and spider suckers.

WHITE/BLACK WEDNESDAY

2009-10-01T08:16:00.001-07:00

Happy White (and in my case, black) Wednesday. This day is put on by Faded Charm and it is too much fun. Go to her site and see lots of other participants. I love doing this because I love the inspiration that comes to me when I'm focusing on a certain thing. In this case, white.

I took a good friend out for her birthday. We wanted to go to the University Mall where a particular store was. We get there and find out that the store has closed, Bummer. So we decide to walk the mall. My friend ask me if I wanted to go into the clothing store called White/Black. I haven't shopped for nice cloths for so long, I had no idea. The wheals were starting to chern, I've been sewing in black and white now for the last two weeks. So I'm thinking, hea, White Wednesday, it might be perfect.

Well, was I in for a treat. What a fantastic store. Can I say I loved it. I haven't been modivated by clothing for 23 years. I use to wear things like this. I use to design this style in my head and wonder why nobody had a store like this. Wow, life and I don't get along very well in the physical department right now. I've got some life style changing that's going to take place.

But -- I want to be able to shop in that store. I'm looking at these 2 very well dressed women behind the counter and I ask, can I take pictures. I'm thinking, all I can do is have pictures around me of how I use to look.

Anyway, I wanted to share with you these beautiful pieces of White/Black design.

LET'S GET AWAY

2009-09-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

Wednesday our family left for St. George for a last minute get-a-way. We actually got John to take 3 days off to be with us. We stayed in our home away from home, the Abby Inn. It was so much fun.

We swam and swam and swam. There is one picture where all but 2 of my grandchildren are by me. I got some good shots of the kids doing tricks in the pool. Wyatt, standing on his head in the water, Hannah doing a back bend into the water and Kacie flooting on her back. I couldn't take many pictures because I was the shark going after the wee fishes.

We all went to the Play "Annie", it was amazing and of course to a stake house for dinner. The Dog Father was a lunch stop.

All my children love to hike so that was a big event. One family went to the red cliffs of St. George and the other family went to Zions Parke. Not me mind you! I went antiquing at the Main Street Antiques and Urban Renewal. Oh, and I never miss TJ Max. Come back on White Wednesday to see the shops.

We had a little birthday celebration for John, he turned 60. His cake was a BYU football and fildgoal made out of cutcakes. We wanted him to relax and just be a kid again, so his gifts, consisted of, a gazoo, a twirlybird, a straw that starts in the drink and goes up and around the ears and the eyes then the mouth, a rubber tounqe that you put in your libs and blow.

I almost forget. I got a cool picture of Owen behind his bubble.

It was a great get-a-way.

MOTHER/DAUGHTER TRADITION

2009-08-29T20:54:00.000-07:00

Forty Four years ago, I was in the 7th grade, my mother and her 3 sisters started a tradition that would hold strong up to today. Once a year they would meet somewhere for lunch with their daughters. It grew to more daughters and daughters in laws to granddaughters, to great granddaughters. We have the best time ever. This year we met in Orem at the Carrabba Grill.

Oh -- I had to sneek a picture of Kacie Joe and Mia modeling their new girly dress and skirt.

TWO WING BACK CHAIRS

2009-08-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

Ever since we moved into this house I just haven't found a good spot for these two wing chairs. I'd like to sale them for $135,00 each. They have hardly been sat in. They are of medium built, a cream on cream nylon material with mahogany feet.

If you are interested let me know. cindygeilmann@yahoo.com or (801) 553-9145

WHAT'S FOR DINNER

2009-08-20T12:03:00.000-07:00

What a fun evening. My son and his family came to dinner the other evening. I don't get to see my youngest grand baby(no.8)very often - he's 7 month's old now.

I fryed up some new potatoes, cook some new corn on the cob, and fryed fresh ground beef patties. (Lots of fat - yummy) Hillary brought a crock pot full of barbequed pork, along with home-made rolls, and she dipped and fryed new green tomatoes. Yum Yum! Then we didn't have room for a new seedless watermelon.

CRYSTAL BOOKMARKS

2009-08-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

I have taken up a new hobby this summer. Beading! What can I say, it's now a habit! These are a few of the ones I've made. I have an etsy account and I think I'm going to sale them. I will be posting a few other things I've made to go on etsy. I love to do all this stuff so I might as well play on etsy.

HELLO EVERYONE

2009-08-06T15:18:00.000-07:00

I don't think anybody has time to blog anymore. I know children keep us busy. I have another blog, it's called "cindy-stitches-n-stuff.blogspot.com, it isn't private so you can just visit whenever. I am going to make a memory book of this blog and then I will close it done.

Come visit!

cindy-stitches-n-stuff.blogspot.com

WHITE WEDNESDAY

2009-08-02T17:19:00.000-07:00

I love this idea of White Wednesday. It's great to have a special purpose to get together with people you admire. And that I do! All of your bloggspots are amazing to look at and to hear about your days and the things that you think about simple feels me with content. The comments are icing on the cake, they are like christmas to me.

This being my first White Wednesday, I've decided to just do a simple walk through of one of the peaceful days in my life, most days aren't peaceful. But some are!!!

The beginning of the day would be trying to get out of my white cotton egyption sheets and pillow cases.

After I finally do, I like to put a load of laundry in. I love my washer and dryer being right across the hall from my bedroom.

Then I enjoy a simple breakfast of toast and eggs. I really don't eat that many.

Then I walk around the house and make sure the blinds are all closed. Mr Stitches-n-stuff tells me, "Cindy, be sure and keep the blinds down, it will keep the house cooler". Cooler I say, It's 72 degrees in here, I'm in the basement which is 5 degrees cooler, I have a fan going full speed ahead, a glass of ice water and I'm still sweating.

I take my hand phone and head down stairs. On a great day, I can stay busy down here for 4 good hours, and the phone doesn't ring. I do have to repeatedly get more ice water.

THERE IS A WINNER

2009-08-01T19:35:00.000-07:00

I need to thank those who came to my aide in looking for a new blog site. I've spent allot of time looking for backgrounds, and "Delightful Dots" fits the bill. There are quite a few new backgrounds that I like so I'll be able to change. Which I still like to do!

The blogger that gave me the name of "Delightful Dots" is Rebecca Cowely. She wins something special from me. Becky, when you read this, will you please e-mail me and tell me your most favorite color. cindygeilmann@yahoo.com

YEAH BECKY, THANK YOU FOR VISITING MY BLOG

THIS IS FOR YOU JODELL

2009-07-22T14:29:00.000-07:00

I have been playing around with different graffic sites looking for new borders. I found this one on delightful dots. It fits JoDell to a T. It's her colors!!!!!!
If you want to use it Jod, let me know and I'll change mine.

OGDENS FARMERS MARKET

2009-07-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

My week-end with Kacie ended at the Farmers Market in Ogden on Saturday. She was so excited to be with her Papa John, forget that I'm in the car now. The market was held at the city park and up and down historic 24th street. Wow, was it packed. My daughter-in-law owns a beauty salon on 24th. It's so cool, it's called "ONYX". If your ever in Ogden, go there, tell her I sent you, her name is Kylie. There were hundreds of booths with things for sale. I bought a charming necklace and a very cool watch that will go with the purse I'm going to get at "Just a Bed of Roses". Of coarse I bought Kacie a darling bracelet and a perfect purple flower for her hair.

We didn't stay to long because the temperature was approaching 100. Now I'm home in my cool house. I'm happy.

A Fancy Nancy Weekend

2009-07-17T20:03:00.000-07:00

Miss Kacie Jo Parke - 6 years old - blond hair, blue eyes - very dainty - smart (like her grandma) - very fancy.

What a thrill for me to get to spend special time with my granddaughter. Kacie loves the book "Fancy Nancy", she is collecting them. Uncle Dallin took her to the book store Thursday and bought her the new Fancy Nancy Tea Party book. In it she had recipes (with recipe cards), decorations, and instructions about having a Fancy tea party.

We decided to have a tea party and I wanted to make her, her first recipe box (fancy of course). We went to Roberts, we bought a box, fancy scrapbook paper, and stickers and jewels. Kacie loves to cook and she is trying to keep recipes of the things she cooks. She also loves to dress fancy. She wore her Twirly Girl Skirt and several fancy pieces of jewelry, along with some black heels.

A fruit tart, a chocolate cream puff and fresh made lemonade complete the tea.

HELP HELP HELP HELP HELP HELP HELP

2009-07-12T18:10:00.000-07:00

I AM TRYING TO FIND ME A NEW BOARDER FOR MY BLOG. I AM VERY CAREFUL FINDING THE PERFECT ONE FOR ME AND I DO LIKE CHANGE. I KNOW THAT I COULD HAVE ONE CREATED FOR ME, AND THERE IS A COST, BUT I PROBEBLY WOULD NOT WANT TO CHANGE IT.

I HAVE USED "THE CUTEST BLOG ON THE BLOCK" FOR TWO YEARS. I BELIEVE WE'VE COME TO AN END. I JUST FOUND "DELIGHTFUL DOTS" AND I'M TRYING THEM OUT.

I THINK I'LL HAVE A CONTEST: IF YOU KNOW OF ANOTHER PROGRAM WITH FREE BOARDERS - PLEASE COMMENT ON MY BLOG AND LEAVE THEIR NAMES. THE ONE THAT SHARES A SITE WITH ME, THAT I FIND SOMETHING FROM, WILL BE THE WINNER. THE WINNER WILL RECEIVE SOMETHING FROM MY SEWING/CRAFT ROOM.

GLOBAL SUN OVEN

2009-07-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

My neighbor and friend is such a creative cook. She realy believeS in the term "Provident Living". She has become a dealer for the Global Sun Oven. It cooks cakes, cookies, roasts, vegtables, everything in a special box, using the heat rays from the sun. It's amazing. It would be great for the summer months when it's so hot in the kitchen. You can do a slow cook thing outside using the sun and keep the heat out of the house. To find out more you can check out sunovenlady@live.com.

STAYCATION

2009-07-11T16:30:00.001-07:00

We have just had the most wonderful three days. Maxwell came to my door first, I opened it and there was the cutest little blond haired, blue eye, biggest smile, arms opened, little 4 year old ever. He was so exited to come to the staycation and he wanted to give me a great big hug. NEXT was the little 18 month old blond haired, blue eyed, big smile, arms stretched out wide girl. She wanted a hug from grandmacinny. And then, of course my Jackson, a very handsome blond haired, blue eyed 8 year old young man. He pushed past me, while of course touching my shoulder, with a serious look in his eyes, bringing in some gear, grunting. And that's how it is!

Mom JoDell and her best (adopted) sister Haylie Anne, who by the way both gave me a hug and brought gear in, were next in line.

We spent the next 3 1/2 hours at the "Farm Country" at Thanksgiving point. Pictures were taken with my daughter's camera. I have been forgetting to take my camera.

Lunch at Appleebees. MMMMM...chicken salad and french onion soup!

Craft time: We all made a very sparkley and shiny personalized book mark with jewels and ribbon. Jackson even liked it - his is a pirate ship anchor.

Naps and tramp.

Material Girls, where we found the perfect skirt and dress patterns for the girls. AND spunky material for my spunky grand-daughters!

Then dinner with Papa at "Sweet Home Chicago Pizza" in the District. Try the thin crust Margerita - oh heaven!

The new Harry Potter Clue game, with treats then bed. Only grandma was down two hrs. earlier then everybody.

NEXT DAY

Chocolate chip pancakes with fresh strawberries and whip cream and crispy bacon and juice.

Two hours of new fun at the new park in Day Break. Which, by the way, received an overwhelming two thumbs up by all! And Grandmacinny and sick little Mia took a nap.

Sandwiches, salads, pickles, nuts, Choc. Chip cookies, and Chips were put in the cooler on ice and we went to Herriman on a picnic with Great Grandma and Grandpa Jarrett. They have a beautiful park across the street. Then we played for a couple hours at the splash pond at the park behind Great Grandma and Grandpa's.

Home for naps, grandma and Mia.

We wanted to stay home for dinner and eat all the left over pizza and stuffed bread sticks, homemade chocolate malts, Harry Potter movies, conversation's and confusion. I tortured everyone with the Color Code test and evaluation! HEHEHEHEHE...it's so fun to be the Grandma!

LOVE IT! LOVE IT! LOVE IT!

NEXT DAY

Big slide at Burger King. French sticks and syrup and play play play. That's the only picture I took.

I sent JoDell and Haylie to the nursery. They came home with three good size perrennial Black eyed susans. They planted them in my garden while I played ball with Mia and Max.

My cup is filled. Having Haylie with us made it much nicer. She is a sweet heart and my daughter's life saver and dear friend! She was the children's first babysitter and has been there every step of their lives for 9 years. They love her. And so do I.

Thank you all for coming!

LIBERTY DAYS 2009

2009-07-05T17:41:00.001-07:00

I forgot my camera!!! All I have to show for our whole day up in Liberty at the 4th of July celebration is this little pillow I bought. However, I did sleep for 14 solid hours Saturday night and Sunday.

We had a most amazing day! Over 2000,00 people came throughout the day. It began Friday evening with a rodeo, then Saturday morning a great breakfast were we served 1000 people or so. A children's parade, of course. About 20 different booths, and 7 or 8 competitive activities.

Lunch was served. People came and went all day. Then from 2:00 to 6:00 a dutch oven meal was prepared for 250 prepaid people. Wow, was it good. Smith and Edwards donated 20 or so very nice gifts that were raffled off. The proceeds all going to the upkeep of the Liberty Park. A 4 wheeler was donated for the raffle with the proceeds to go to Todos Los Ninos, to be used for the orphanage in Ecuador. $800,00 was needed and it was reached by 9:00 p.m. There were several women competing for the quilt that I had made. It was really fun. The women that won had boughten allot of tickets.

Things were cleared off under the Bowery and the dis jockey's prepared for the dance. It was sooooo fun. The little girls are the first ones to start dancing, then a few older girls, then a couple of small boys, then dads, then moms, then the teenagers. I bet there were 500 people at the end of the dance. It was the most united activity of families and people, one girl in a wheel chair was having the time of her life.

From there everyone finds a place on the park grass lawn to settle down in, for the fireworks, It is so cool, 2000 or so people. And not one Police Officer. No need! A special tribute to our hero's in the service and the national anthem and BOOM, it's begun. My John and I had our chairs up close this year. 20 minutes of the most beautiful color and sparkle ever.

It's now 10:45pm. After all the hugs and thanks we left for home, getting home at 12:00. Which brings me to the 14hrs of sleep.

Our celebration was to honor the men and women who fought for our freedom of Liberty. We reverence their lives and examples.

NEW HOBBY

2009-07-02T19:11:00.001-07:00

Whenever I get board I start a new hobby. I use to work with beads, but never this beautiful. One of my most favorite gifts I've received was a hand made bookmark. I love to read and I love special bookmarks.

July 4th, 2009

2009-06-30T18:18:00.003-07:00

This is the quilt I have made that will be raffeled off at Liberty Days on July 4th 2009. I consider it an honor to have been ask to do this. I lived in Liberty for 15 years. I have quilted with many talented women up there. Many whom donated quilts for this celebration wraffel. I'm happy to be counted their equal.

A ROCK SURPRISE

2009-06-29T16:32:00.000-07:00

A simple surprise for my 3 granddaughters. A Stone necklace. The girls love necklaces and the stones I picked up in Springdale are beautiful.

10th annual Jarrett Family Reunion

2009-06-29T08:21:00.000-07:00

It came and now it's over. The Jarrett reunion was held in Sprindale Utah, just outside of Zion's Park in a darling spot with individual cabins, lots of big trees and grass, and a swimming pool. While others went on the big hike in Zions Park, I visited with my mom and dad. My brother and his wife did all the cooking. It was great! Lots and lots of nieces and nephews and their wives and families came. That was fun because I don't get to spend time with them. And of course my mother brought the famous chocolate chip cookies!!!!!!!! Next year I'll be in charge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sweet Rewards

2009-06-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

I have come to appreciate notes given to me by my granddaughters. Notes of gratitude and love for time spent with them or a special gift or maybe just being funny. The thought of them thinking about me and wanting to express themselves to me in a lasting way just warms me to the toes. I am going to give them a special place in my favorite drawer. I will keep them forever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The 2nd annual Schools out Party

2009-06-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

Well, another year, another end. Life is so grand that way! Everyone needs to celebrate at the end of a busy long school year.

We celebrated by first putting together some Hobo dinners made with groundbeef, carrots, potatoes, spices and a little gravy wrapped in foil. Then on to deseret, S'mores made with gramcrackers, hersey's chocolet bars and marshmellows wrapped in foil. Jackson was earning a meritbadge for his wolf, so with grandpa's help, he started the grill and put our wrapped dinners on to cook.

While they cooked we played games and jumped on the tramp. Before they were finished a special guest arived, Spiffy the magicician. He was so cool!

On to our dinners, they were soooooooo good. The evening went on and on and on. Finally at 11:30 we were all asleep.

See you next year!

Oh, I almost forgot. When ever I have my grandchildren together we usually find something in nature to fastenate all of us. Jackson and Wyatt found the skin of a water snake. COOL

Projects

2009-06-12T12:06:00.000-07:00

I have been dying to buy an old window - I finally did, in an antic store in Logan Utah. I also bought an old bread box at a shop in Clearfield Utah. I've been giving these two items a great deal of thought. You see my house is very contemporary. Contemporary like my daughter. Having only one daughter to raise I have taken many opportunities to figure out her style. It's always been different from mine but I believe with all my heart that differences can blend, both in personalities and style. My style has been able to change depending on the place I am living and my responsibilities at that time. The most important thing to me is that you are comfortable in my home and I am comfortable living in it. We've been in our home 4 years now and I haven't had time to work on every room. This year I'm going to change that. I've decided that I need a spark of vintage in each room.

SO

I've chosen a deep Plum paint called Interlude that I will treat both these vintage beauties with. Come back and you'll be able to see them.

THE RAIN -- THE RAIN

2009-06-11T12:07:00.000-07:00

OH MY GOSH, I WISH I COULD BE RECORDING THE WONDERFUL SOUND THAT I HEAR RIGHT NOW. IT'S RAINING, NO, I REALLY MEAN RAINING. IT'S BEEN DOING IT FOR ABOUT 2 FULL DAYS. IT LOOKS MORE LIKE A RAIN YOU WOULD FIND IN GEORGIA. COMING DOWN LIKE SHARP KNIVES, HITTING THE GROUND HARD AND WITH GREAT FORCE. EACH DROP HOLDS A PINT OF WATER, PRECIOUS CLEAR WATER THAT CARRIES NUTRIENTS THAT BRING FORTH LIFE AND GROWTH TO THIS EARTH. MY FLOWERS AND PLANTS AND TREES AND LAWN ARE BEING TOUCHED BY THE MASTERS HAND. THEY ARE BEING TOLD, "YOU CAN BECOME WHO YOU ARE SUPPOSE TO BECOME", I WILL HELP YOU.

So often we are like the plants on the earth. We become dry in need of water. We begin to loose our strength and our limps hang down. We try to stretch, thinking moister can be received from here or there. Maybe a little bit can! We dig our roots deep into the earth, or our work, thinking that time will surely bring on new buckets of renewal. If it doesn't come, what can we do? The plant will curl up and die and have to be pulled from the garden. We have two choices: One will become limp and loose her value to herself and family and others. The other will do everything she can to survive.

Like the plants and flowers and trees and grass, we need to be watered and fed nutrients of value. Our attitude effects us every day - our choices effect us every day - our family and friends effect us every day - these sources help to fill our buckets. The living water that I receive from my savior Jesus Christ is there for me and you Daley. I can't be who I am suppose to be without the love and support from him.

Thank you for this rain.

Schools almost out

2009-06-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

OK, OK, this boarder is not my style but it kinda goes with the party coming up with my grandchildren. It's our annual schools out party and we are using the trees that are in this boarder. It's also getting close to summer and I really like the idea of the sand. I can imagine the clear blue sky too. I'll change it after our party.

I want to thank you for your patience with me about going private with my blog.

Today is my 38th wedding anniversary. It's been a long time but I wouldn't change anything about it. I love my John more today then I did 38 years ago. We have definitely been in this together.

This ones for you Cynthia

2009-06-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

OK, this is what I did today. Feel Free to Laugh at me! I got the center of my quilt finished, as you can see, and I put a 2 1/2" strip all the way around that, then I've cut 2 1/2" by 6" strips and have sewed them together and then onto the quilt. It will go all the way around. Then I had to call and reorder another jelly roll. It should be here Thursday. OH THAT'S NOT FUNNY!

Then I was making lunch for my daughter and her children. I wanted to make a raspberry and banana smoothie. I had some beautiful raspberry's. I got all the ing. in the blender, it was very full, and I turned it on. I was very lucky it didn't blow up and go all over. While I was feeling very cool about escaping that fate I turned off the machine. I got out the glass glasses and set them just so. Then I picked up the handle of the blender to pour - and the bottom came off the blender and - the smoothie went all over the cupboard and was running down to the floor. It got all over me and everyone standing behind me. Oh ----! I wanted that smoothie and I was going to eat it. I used a spatula and picked up two glasses. It took 1/2 hour to clean it up. All we could do was laugh!

THEN

I walked my daughter to her car and turned to hurry back in the house to write something down so I wouldn't forget it. I stumbled up the steps and I fell on the porch on my left arm and stomach. Oh ----! I knew I was in a fix because I don't get down that far unless I fall because I can't get back up, bad knees. I turned over and sat on the steps to figure out what to do. In the mean time my daughter had started her car, but she couldn't see me, until she backed out and was headed down the street. As she went by she waved, and I waved back. OK I couldn't hold on to the house with my right hand and I didn't have anything to hold on to with my left hand and my knees just couldn't to it by themselves. I thought of rolling over on to my knees, but I quickly changed my mind. SO I scooted down the steps to the bottom one. With both feet flat on the ground I grabbed a hold of the brick corner of the porch and was able to pull with my arm as I lift with my thighs.

WEW

I got in the house, got my purse and keys and went to Seagull Book and bought me something to read so that I would stay down and put for awhile. I've only read 5 chapters and I love it so much. MASTER by Tony Sorenson.

WHAT A DAY!

My first speed quilt

2009-06-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

About 20 years ago the new way of cutting quilt pieces was with a rotary cutter, there was a very fast way of stitching a Log Cabin Quilt also. A class was being taught on this at my very favorite quilting store in Ogden. Gardner's Sew-n-Quilt.
This is the only class I've ever taken on quilting, but it was with out a doubt a Hugh blessing to all quilters.

I chose a red print and white eyelet for my mothers king size bed in a room with red shag carpet and her French Provinchial Furniture and Pink Sheers.

The reason I'm telling this now is because 5 years ago my mother gave me back the quilt,(all nicely cleaned and pack in a zip lock bag). She moved and no longer used a king bed. All this time I haven't known what to do with it. I've hated seeing it still looking like the day I made it, but, with no one to sleep under it.

OK!

I have a friend (becky lewis) who is so sweet and will do anything for anybody. I was visiting her in her new home the other day. I am so happy for her and her family, the home is so very lovely. A wrap around porch facing a wooded area up in the mountains. Oh my gosh, you couldn't ask for a more peaceful place. As I walked through her bedroom I notice that she had a big king bed. I wanted her to have this king quilt that I made. It's in perfect condition and it needs a home. I hope that she will take it and enjoy it. It has at least another 25 years on it. The only catch is -- it's red!

The second Hugh blessing for quilters is the Jelly Roll, and the Charm Pack.

WILL YOU TAKE IT BECKY?

THE STORY OF THE CRAB BUCKET:

2009-05-30T23:23:00.000-07:00

ONCE A MAN WALKING ALONG THE BEACH SAW ANOTHER MAN FISHING IN THE SURF WITH A BAIT BUCKET BESIDE HIM. AS HE DREW CLOSER, HE SAW THAT THE BAIT BUCKET HAD NO LID AND HAD LIVE CRABS INSIDE.
"WHY DON'T YOU COVER YOUR BAIT BUCKET SO THE CRABS WON'T ESCAPE?" HE ASKED.
"YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND," THE MAN REPLIED, "IF THERE IS ONE CRAB IN THE BUCKET IT WOULD SURELY CRAWL OUT VERY QUICKLY. HOWEVER, WHEN THERE ARE MANY CRABS IN THE BUCKET, IF ONE TRIES TO CRAWL UP THE SIDE, THE OTHERS GRAB HOLD OF IT AND PULL IT BACK DOWN SO THAT IT WILL SHARE THE SAME FATE AS THE REST OF THEM."
SO IT IS WITH PEOPLE. IF ONE TRIES TO DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT, GET BETTER GRADES, IMPROVE HERSELF, ESCAPE HER ENVIRONMENT, OR DREAM BIG DREAMS, OTHER PEOPLE WILL TRY TO DRAG HER BACK DOWN TO SHARE THEIR FATE.
MORAL OF THE STORY: IGNORE THE CRABS. CHARGE AHEAD AND DO WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU. IT MAY NOT BE EASY AND YOU MAY NOT SUCCEED AS MUCH AS YOU LIKE, BUT YOU WILL NEVER SHARE THE SAME FATE AS THOSE WHO NEVER TRY.

I love this place that I am in, in my life. I'm adjusting to being an empty nester (so to speak). I'm finally learning to live with myself by myself. However, I couldn't do it without all of the wonderful creative people I'm around. People that spend most of their time adding softness and style to everything they touch. People that are willing to share who they are and what they think.
I hope that your lives are spared of the crabs that wish to bring you down, but are full, by the angels hoping to build you up.

Isn't the word Vintage lovely

2009-05-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

I am putting these things on my blog because I need a little help in adding a little vintage to them. There is a store in Farmington that I love, called Just A Bed Of Roses. The owner has been a friend of mine for the better part of 38 years. We both married men from Wilson. As long as I've known Brenda she has been involved in everything vintage, only we use to call it Antic. Vintage sounds so lovely, don't you think? She is a master of making things ooze with charm and if you go into her store, she makes you feel so special. Anyway, I think if I can show her what I want to do, she will help me, choose from her store the magic I need to add the vintage charm.

Memorial Day with my Family

2009-05-29T12:54:00.000-07:00

I can't think of a greater way to spend the evening then with my family eating and watching the kids play. We got together at my son Jareds house. Him and Hillary and their family live in Farmington. A beautiful peaceful place with a great historical feel to it. Good conversation and good fun with your family is something to cherish. I do think though, that we should do something more to show respect to those that are no longer with us. Something more then just getting together to celebrate. I think next year, we'll car pool down to Ogden to the cemetaries and let the children put flowers on their Aunt Casey's and their Great Grandma and Great Grandpas graves and their Great Great Grandma and Great Great Grandpas graves.

Then go play somewhere!

Sewing RoomOpen

2009-05-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

I suppose my sewing room has been closed long enough. I was ask to make a quilt to raffle off at Liberty Days on July 4th. It's a honor for me to get to do it so I told them that I would be happy to do it. I've only got 4 weeks to get it done.

I'm going to use the new material I ordered on line, it's called Kyoco. It's soft oriental prints on Brown, Teal, and cream colors. Due to time, it will be very contemporary with straight lines and I will make it up as I go. My granddaughter Kacie is a very good iron er, she helped me yesterday. My friend Cindy Paulson is going to machine quilt it and I will bind it. This will be my donation to Liberty Days.

I will keep you informed!

Everything grows that she touches

2009-05-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

I love the unigueness of people. Everyone has a place in my heart, everyone has a special gift to share. This beautiful hanging flower basket was given to me for Mother's day and it surely would have died had it stayed in my care these last two weeks. However, it didn't, as you can see, because my neighbor Connie cared for it along with her grow boxes, and gardens and bush removal. I am so grateful that she is my neighbor and my friend.

FRIENDS

2009-05-21T09:02:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the most wonderful thing you can do for yourself is, simply to be with a friend. Friends can take you places that you never knew you needed. They can show you parts of their lives that let you see how good you've had it, or excite and motivate you to expand yourself and become a better person.
It's especially great spending time with a friend exploring their world. I went with a friend to Bear Lake to visit her family home. We of course had to do some exploring in some shops on the way. We began with a shop in Farmington called "Just a Bed of Roses". Shabby to Vintage! I love this shop. The next one was in Roy "Re-Creations". A women refurbishes old furniture in a very charming way and there are beautiful vintage bottles and dolls and everything. Next was lunch in Logan at Bajio. SO GOOD! Two more Antic shops - . Then into Bear Lake where we stoped at a shop that makes fudge and candy's in million's of different forms.

Finally to the house and the 4 wheelers. Lots of special treats. A special pancake breakfast. Oh my gosh, the house is so charming with such a wonderful feel of grandmas. Peace and Quiet! Ya know if you talk non stop to someone for 24 hours, with no interuptions, you'll get to know them pretty good. My friend is amazing, her family is amazing and I'm so glad that I am able to share in the life of such a remarkable women. You are a blessing to me.

10 Things I Love About My Mom - By JoDell

2009-05-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Mother's Day and today I'm giving my mom the gift of a hijacked blog entry. It's almost impossible for me to sumarize my love for my mom into list of a mere 10 items, but these are truly my top 10.

10- I love the way she always fusses over things in an attempt to make them just right. Babies, table settings, party invitations, blog entries etc.

9- I love how she sings to my babies - in the rocking chair, on the porch swing, on the telephone, in the car.

8-I love how much thought, time and love she puts into EVERY quilt or blanket she stitches together. I love how those blankets make me feel when I comfort a crying baby, or tuck my big kids into bed at night or spread them on the lawn for a picnic with friends.

7- I love the way she makes sandwiches - no deli can compare!

6- I love the way she puts her whole heart and soul into serving others - both at home and around the world.

5- I love the way she finds ridiculous amounts of joy in the little things.

4- I love the way she keeps trying even when she gets frustrated or hurt.

3- I love the way she has supported my dad and me and my brothers, many times from the sidelines, as we have fumbled around figuring out who we are.

2- I love the way my mom so deeply loves the Savior and how she has passed that love onto me.

1- I love my mom for, at the tender age of 20, wanting me more than anything else and for the way she has dedicated her whole life to our family.

Happy Mother's Day Mom! I love you!

Koyko Material

2009-05-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

Ok Ok, I know that the sewing room is closed but I couldn't help it. I found this material on line at "connecting thread.com" (in case you want to take a peek), I had to have it. I don't know what I'll make or when I'll make it, but it's a winner!!

Spring cleaning at it's best

2009-05-09T05:44:00.000-07:00

When I moved into my home 4 years ago I wanted monochromatic colors. Brown and cream, tan walls and ceiling, white trim and doors. A tanish/goldish short shag carpet and tans and cream tile. I soon needed more color so I brought in fall colors in my living room and kitchen/dinning/family center, and foryer.

This year I'm wanting an accent color for my bedroom and bathroom. DA DA! Plum ------I could eat it up. New rugs and towels for the bath. Plum Lillie's in a Crystal vase, Plum candles on crystal candle sticks and a Crystal picture frame for my bedroom. I'm looking for the right Plum pillow for my bed. Anyone seen one? My daughter gave me a beautiful pair of Plum silk pajamas.

Spring cleaning can be so much fun!

Happy Happy Birthday Hannah Dear

2009-05-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

Nine years ago a most wonderful thing happened to me. I became a grandmother. A most precious little girl joined my son's new family. They named her, Hannah Tyler, Tyler after the name of the city in Texas where Jared met Hannah's mother.

She's smart, she's talented, she's beautiful, and she knows no fear! What can I say, she's my granddaughter.

We spent the day together, it began shopping in a very cool shop in Farmington called, "Just a bed of Roses". It's hard to choose just one thing but she finally did. A necklace with a shinny and shimmery silver crown charm. Yup, that's Hannah.!
We went to lunch next. We went to Applebee's in the District in South Jordan. We started off with Queso and Chips -- then a Oriental chicken salad. The team from Applebee's sang happy birthday to her and gave her a keylime desert.

Of course we couldn't stop there, so we went to "Justice for Girls" where Hannah picked out a cute pink purse and a scarf.

From there we stoped at the Nursery and picked up some ground cover for the garden.

The evening just kept on going, "Ghost Whispers", dinner with grandpa and uncle Dallin, and of course, "MAMMA MIA". Then, we fell asleep!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tomorrow's another day.

On top of things this year

2009-05-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

I must be feeling pretty great this spring, I've really gotten a handle on things. The deck out back is almost restrained along with Dallin's Adirondack chair he built in high school. John and Dallin got the tramp put together. A summer tradition for the last 13 or so years. I've gotten new dishes and glasses for mothers day, so were all ready to par-ty Sunday, on mothers day!

I'll be cooking a couple of beef roasts, mashed potatoes and gravy, carrots, peas, rolls and butter and jam. My mother is bringing a fruit salad and some pudding.
I'm also making fennel cookies and a fastest cake in the west. I need to come up with a great drink to go into my new goblets. ANY SUGGESTIONS?

Wow, we've got to stain that fence this year.

Blanky for Hudson and Bloomers for Mia

2009-04-20T15:47:00.001-07:00

I am closing up the sewing room for the summer. Some wonderful things have been created, planned, and sewn together this last year. Most of which has been recorded on this blog. Some things are on going, like the quilts that Hannah and Kacie are making with me. Bailey's (my brother's granddaughter)is going to make a quilt with me. I've also purchased some beautiful paisley material and a darling apron pattern that I want to make for my daughter's for Christmas this year. I have a red, white, lime green and pink jelly roll, that will make a quilt for my grandmas room.

Quilting will be a lost art if it's not past down to the younger generation. I remember my grandmother Allred quilting. I never had the opportunity to learn from her, but I am the recipient of some of her quilts. I did quilt some with my mother, and I wouldn't trade the last 38 years of quilting experiences I've had with many women from all over, for anything! It's important to me that I share this art with this younger generation. They are the ones that will carry on the traditions, of many women, throughout history, who have carefully designed and created quilts, that have given warmth and comfort to families and friends -- and many in need.

ANYWAY

I'm looking forward to working in my garden and having picnics with my grandchildren this summer.

My youngest babies

2009-04-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

Where Have I been

2009-04-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

I don't think I can tell you what I've been doing. I just know, I've been busy. Of course - busy to me now - isn't anything like it use to be. I would like to complete all the projects that were started during the fall and winter. I would like to clean my sewing room and hang the - closed - sign up. I have a garden that I would like to focus on. It's all across the front yard. I also have a "schools out party to plan". It's coming!

My John and Dallin are in St. George this week. I stayed home to concentrate.

I have my window open and I can hear the birds outside. I can hear the lawn mowers going and I can feel a spring breeze. I think I am in heaven.

I'm sorry, now it's winter again, snow!!!!!!!!!!!! No, wait a minute, it melted and the suns up, maybe it's spring. For sure, it's winter, everything is covered with snow.

Ug, now the snow has melted again and the spring air is coming through the window and the poor birds don't know weather to chirp or shiver.

Oh, I didn't tell you. I received a small package in the mail from a special friend. She has been going to antique stores in her new area in Florida. She found a thimble that was from the Victoria Era, covered with tarnish. She bought it for me and cleaned it and sent it. I was so very excited, I'm sorry that I can't put a better picture of it on here. Thank you so much Cynthia.

Ok, here we go: THINGS TO BE FINISHED

Re-cover 6 dining room chair seats - finished
Bind Fall quilt - finished
Hudson's blue receiving blanket - finished
Hudson's other receiving blanket - almost finished
Mia's bloomers - finished
Kate's quilt top - finished
Get the backs ready for both Kacie's and Hannah's quilts
Take pictures - finished
Create blogspot - finished
Change backdrop on blogspot - finished
Go shopping for cabinet for foyer - finished
Use discount card at Justice For Girls - finished
Birthday lunch - finished (great)
Birthday date with special friend - finished
Go to Glover Nursery - guess I won't be doing this
Clean house - finished
Make Cookies and Taco Soup

Family

2009-03-07T20:28:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wanted something so bad, but didn't know how to get it? I'm not talking about anything as simple as, oh, a car or cloths, a vacation, a new house, money or fame. I'm talking about something that has the possibility of being eternal or long lasting. What I'm talking about is being able to touch another's life, become friends, make a difference, have an everlasting effect, give and show love in it's greatest form, charity, or the pure Love of Christ.

My Brother and his wife were blessed with a very special daughter, well, they have 3 of them actually, but the one that I am talking about right now died 4 months ago, her name is Brooke. A distance and busy families have kept us apart. I often felt very sad that we couldn't or didn't get together more. I always had more love for them then they ever new, but for some reason, the few times we saw each other didn't allow us to really share our lives. I've always wished for more.

While attending Brooke's funeral I felt, for the first time, the closeness, I knew that she and I were suppose to have, but never did. Our hearts touched for a moment in time.

A song had been recorded and played while things were getting ready. Concerto #2 Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini by Rachmaninoff. I immediately recognized this to be a magical moment, a moment that was mine and Brooke's. A moment unlike anything we'd ever shared. I closed my eyes in hopes of keeping this gift for as long as the giver would let me. I felt a softness come into my arms! Nothing needed to be said because everything that was ever needed was felt between both of us at that very moment. We just listened and felt the warmth of love cross between us as the power in this music healed our souls and gave us a hope for a better day.

It's amazing how our lives parallel with each other, and we don't even know it. I will never forget this, and a part of Brooke will be with me for the rest of my life and I hope a part of me will be with her.

I have the rest of my life to live and it will be dedicated in sharing the love that I feel for my family.

To all who suffer from Asthma

2009-03-07T18:08:00.001-08:00

I have asthma, I've known about it since I was a teenager, it started with nuts. As I get older there are more and more things that set it off. The last 4 years I have been extremely troubled with something that keeps my lungs and allergies under attach.

I now know what it is. SOY

I really have enjoyed foods with soy in them, thinking that it's good for me. Silk Milk, I can't believe it's not butter, anything with SOY. WRONG!

All margarine's are made with soy bean oil. Real butter isn't, and the only soft real butter is Land Ol Lakes. So I guess that's what I'll use.

Good luck to all those who struggle with allergic reaction.

The Two Wolves

2009-03-07T10:10:00.001-08:00

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between two "wolves" inside us all.

One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."

The grand son thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"

The old Cherokee simpy replied, "The one you feed"

Resident Woodpecker

2009-03-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

One day I heard a loud machine gun like noise on my roof. It didn't take me long to realize that it was a woodpecker because in the house up in Liberty we had one, for 15 years. Now that I'm into taking pictures and I've always been into beautiful things, I wanted to get a picture. I was a little slow in getting to the right spot with my camera the first time I heard him this year. So, when I got there and aimed, he flew off. I was, however, able to catch him in my neighbors tree. It's been about two three weeks, this morning I heard the first, rat tat tat, I ran and got my camera, opened the door, got in the spot, he was sitting so comfortably, and click. GOT HIM! Help me figure out a good name for him, I know that he will be back.

Finished

2009-03-07T08:56:00.000-08:00

My mother has finished the Cloth for the temple. She will now deliver it to the party in charge. They will have it steamed and blocked and made ready to be placed in it's special place in the temple. Mom says that her hands don't hurt her as she crochets. I'm glad to hear that, because all of the years of her using her hands have certainly left a bent and swollen result.

I will always remember the hundreds of hours that have gone into this beautiful piece of Art. I will also be on the look out for my mothers "Hand Crocheted Cloth" whenever I visit the Oquirrh Temple.

A PIPE BROKE

2009-03-05T20:46:00.000-08:00

After I was finished power washing the steps to the front door, I turned off the house water from the tap. John went down stairs to get a piece of luggage from the storage room, and, the hall, the front of the storage room, the water heater room, and Dallins bedroom were standing in up to 1 1/2 inches of water. Where is it coming from? He didn't have time to find it because he had to leave to catch a plane for San Francisco. SO I got the wet vac out, John helped me figure out how to work it, then he left.

I sucked and sucked and sucked and sucked!

When Dallin came home he looked in his closet. Every thing was soaking wet. He must have a hundred shirts, all wet. Back packs, boxes, cases, books, everything. The water valve is in the wall of his closet. The pipe broke and shot every where. I don't know if it had been shooting water for the whole time I was power washing (1hr) or what. What a mess.

I've washed 15 loads of cloths.

No more real water is coming up, but the carpet is still real wet. I think I've done all I can do, John will have to look at it when he gets home. We'll probably have to replace a pipe and I'm not making the call on the carpet. We will be having a plummer come next week.

Second Step

2009-02-24T10:37:00.000-08:00

The first step was sewing the 5 inch squares together in threes. Press all seams down.

The second step is sew the sets of 3 squares together to make 6. Press all seams down.

The third step is sew the sets of 6 together. Press all seams down.

The fourth step is, sew a 2 inch boarder around the whole section. Press all seams down.

The fifth step is, sew a 4 inch boarder around the whole section. Press all seams down.

The sixth step is, choose the material for the back. Prepare it, quilt it.

The last step is, bind it with a 2 1/2 inch boarder.

Geilmann Grandchildren

2009-02-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

I want to just show you the loves of my life once again. While visiting them today I took each of their pictures. I haven't seen the new baby since he was born because I've been sick.

Jared's kids: Hudson 2 1/2 weeks, Wyatt 5 years, Owen, 3 years, Hannah 8 years

I'm wiped

2009-02-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

I am so not feeling well. Over three weeks ago I got a cold. I thought to myself, I hope that this can just be a cold and then be done. That never happens anymore. I had the cold for a week, it goes and settles in my chest. I stop using my Advair(ashma med) so it doesn't disturb what ever is brewing in my chest. Another week goes by and I find myself in trouble (can't breath) SO I return to using the Advair. Sure enough the goop goes deeper into my lungs. Now my ears and sinuses hurt. I can't get to the doctor so I treat myself to a new antibiotic that I have from before. Another week goes by and I'm not any better. I finally go to the doctor. Both ears, sinuses, bronchial and throat are infected. As you can see, I'm sitting in Johns recliner, under Maxwell's new quilt for his bed. The ladies in his ward tied it for him and I'm binding it. I hardly have the energy to do that. I feel like somethings is clearing up, but I'm not getting better. Well tomorrow is Monday and I have an appointment Tuesday. Maybe I need a shot of Cortisone.

What can I do to improve my immune system?

Sometimes children need their grandma

2009-02-07T19:43:00.000-08:00

I spent three days in Rose Park at my daughters house this week. I watch the two little ones on Wednesdays while their mother works at the elementary. The other two days that she works they go to a friends. I committed to watch them all three days this week and when I got to their home I found everybody to be sick. The two older children were home from school sick also. All four children had coughs, running noises, and fevers. There was someone coughing constantly the whole time I was there.

These three days were the best time I've ever spent with all four of them for a good number of hours. They weren't sick enough that they had to lay down all the time, and they weren't well enough to be miserable. They kept me busy all day, but they each took their turn for my attention. They loved the special little things I did for them. And they all returned love to me in a big way.

He was almost born in the car

2009-01-31T18:52:00.000-08:00

5:30 in the morning on Wednesday the 28th of January Hillary says, "We gotta go, this baby is coming". Jared got the whole family in the car and headed for the Ogden Hospital. He called me and I said that I'd meet him at the hospital. I called Kylie, because she lives in Ogden, and ask her to go to the hospital and get the kids and take them to her house and I would meet her there. Kylie got to the hospital in time to get the kids so Jared could go back in and see the baby be born. Thank you Kylie. Thank you Hillary for holding your legs together for 45 minutes so he wouldn't come out and for going through this life giving experience. Thank you Jared for acting so quickly. And thank you Father in Heaven for such a handsome and healthy baby boy. And also for helping grandma drive to Ogden, in traffic, in the dark, at 5:30 in the morning, without any anxiety.

She's been wanting to do this

2009-01-19T13:02:00.000-08:00

Kacie Joe Parke, age 6, having her first ironing lesson. A friend of mine, Maryann Marler instigated a Purple quilt gathering. Several ladies in my ward brought squares of purple fabric. About 7 or 8 of us each gathered up some of everything that was there. We ended up with enough to make a quilt.

Today Kacie and I sewed the squares together. Kacie pressed each square section laying the seams all to one side. Kacie followed a little rhythm and enjoyed the process so much. The next step will be to sew the sections together. They will have to be pressed and then we can put a boarder around the whole thing. Then of course, press that. This will be mine and Kacie's first quilt. We're so excited.

Jackson's Babtisim

2009-01-19T12:49:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day and what an amazing boy. Kevin Jackson Parke, 8 years old, baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. You will always have the help you need with the special gift that was given you by your father. You have the rest of your life to gain greater understanding.

We love you Mr. Jacks.

HIP HIP HURRAY

2009-01-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

YES, Dallin took the National Pharmacy Technician test today. He found out that he passed as soon as he turned his papers in. He will receive a certificate from the state in a couple of weeks and then he will be able to find a pharmacy that he wants to work in. I'm proud of you son.

2008 - 2009

2008-12-28T17:40:00.000-08:00

A year is gone and another one begins. I've seen 57 new years and not one of them have been disappointing. I love new beginnings, start overs, another chance, hope for better things, faith in a brighter day. I like to start over with a new list of things to do, to look for, to think about, to make happen. I love to look forward to new experiences, new journey's, new challenges. I love to recommit to my Father in Heaven and I love to be able to stand still and see his glory in the things that he has ask me to do.

Most of all I love to be able to see new things happen in my family. I get so much joy out of my children's and grand children's progression.

Right now I know that I am looking forward to Jackson (grandson) being baptised, a new grandson being born, Dallin being able to work in a pharmacy, several trips with John, Humanitarian Efforts, making several quilts in my new sewing room, and anything else that comes my way. I also look forward to continuing some very good friendships, and I always love making more.

I hope that you have a happy new year and while making all your new lists, don't forget to give yourself time to refresh and regroup, go to the temple.

1876 Cape Cod Collection

2008-12-27T15:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas was as wonderful as I hoped. As I am cleaning up after our dinner I am thinking about the dishes that I am washing. Over 37 years ago my mother started collecting a Cape Cod Collection that was made in 1876. They make a beautiful table. I helped her serve dinner on them for many years and then she turned them over to me some 8 or so years ago. Being only one female in the family makes some things easy to pass on. I guess I'll just have to get more dishes so I can pass a set onto each daughter.

Christmas Eve Family Party

2008-12-24T21:44:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about where we live is that there is a big beautiful park right next to us. Everyone brought snow cloths and they went tubing at the park for a couple of hours. Then hot chocolate, then dinner, then presents, then a memory game. It was such a wonderful family Christmas.

Christmas helper

2008-12-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

.

My Hannah came Tuesday (22nd) evening and slept over. Wednesday she started the day by shaving and then she helped me clean and get ready for our Family Chirstmas party. She dusted and ironed and washed dishes and set the table and inbetween she read Christmas books. She is my favorite granddaughter named Hannah Tyler Geilmann.

Quilts for the girls

2008-12-24T21:19:00.000-08:00

Wew! Just in time! I finished them Tuesday at 11:00 p.m. They all loved them.

25 years of chocolet

2008-12-23T13:03:00.000-08:00

The first Christmas that we lived in Macon Georgia a women by the name of Norphlet Parker envited me to her house. She wanted me to help her and learn how to dip chocolets. We did a Peanut Butter Ball and a
Martha Washington Ball. After rolling the balls and letting them cool, we melted the chocolet and dipped the balls and set them on some wax paper to cool. SO GOOD! This has become a tradition that everybody likes - SO - I keep doing it.

Kylie Drew Geilmann

2008-12-23T12:09:00.000-08:00

It's done, it's done, the quilt is done. It's wrapped and under the tree.

The Inca Rooster

2008-12-18T14:34:00.000-08:00

I took the picture of this rooster back in October when we were visiting the Inca Pirca Ruins in Ecuador. My friend Bonnie loves all Roosters so I couldn't help but take this picture. Then of course I had to make it into this pillow that is wrapped with a Christmas bow, ready to be given to her.

The Christmas Tree Project each year

2008-12-18T09:21:00.000-08:00

I have kept ornaments for 6 or 7 trees that I have either made or bought over the last several years. The one that I refer to the most is the Christmas tree we had when living in Macon Georgia. I had sold all of the Christmas decorations that I had before moving to Georgia. I needed all the money I'd could get to start over in a new place. Most everything was sold. SO when Christmas came around we didn't have any decorations, and no money. Somehow we were able to obtain a sad looking little tree that bent over. I don't know where it came from but we found one ornament, so we put it on the tree. That was it, no lights, just a bent tree with one ornament. I was a survivor back then, I wasn't very creative. We had hundreds of pine trees around us, why didn't we pick up the pine cones and tie a string and put them on the tree. I don't know!

Anyway, I can now give each of my children the decorations for a whole tree. I think next year, I'll put up all of them and let my children choose which one they want and I'll start over.

TRADITIONS

2008-12-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

Last Christmas John took our family to ride the Christmas Polar Express train up in Heber. It was so much fun and magical for the children. I made this pillow to go under the tree this year to remind the children of the polar express, and to remember to BELIEVE.

Sometime after our daughter Casey Collett died Richard Paul Evans wrote "The Christmas Box". I came upon the book at Christmas time. Casey was alive between October and February so that Christmas holds special meaning to me. I had heard about his book and I was very anxious to read it. It had a profound effect on me. I felt very close to Casey that Christmas and John and I rode to the cemetery, where the angle that he spoke about in the book, is placed. In deed, there is a certain feeling associated with the angle. From then on, I decided to collect his books, and just prior to Christmas I read all of them. It's a gift I give to myself to allow myself to think back at a time when my daughter was alive. She was very real, and her spirit lives with me today.

I can't ever remember not having amazing feeling about the South, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida. It began when I was a little girl - in my dreams, then in my class work. One day when I was least expecting it, I met a young man who had just returned from serving in Kentucky and Tennessee for two years. My dreams unfolded and they became my reality. I came across a Christmas cook book and ideas called "Southern Living Christmas". I was hooked, I've been collecting them since 1996. My 2008 copy should be here next week. I can't wait!

One of the most favorite things at Christmas time has always been a hot cut of coco and to be curled up in a favorite spot with one of our children reading a Christmas story. Now I get to do it with my grandchildren and I watch my children continue that tradition in their homes.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-14T19:55:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time of year again. I use to get so excited I couldn't stand it. I had so much fun fussing over a tree and decorations. I'm sorry to say that I am not like most people who add to their collection of Christmas ornaments and decorations each year - year after year - and use the same ornaments, memories of children and events. I choose a new style and color of ornaments each year and I have fun creating the other decorations to go along with the tree. The only tradition my children know is that it changes every year. It's nice but it's always a new surprise. I always want white lights, my children always wanted colored lights. My husband doesn't have time or desire to fuss like I do so he's not apart of it. He prefers it to be very simple. My children don't like to help because I'm to excited and want to do it myself.

I've done 37 Christmas's and now I wish I had done as my good friend Shelli did. She got each of her children an ornament for every Christmas of their lives, her sisters and cousins have all exchanged ornaments with each other every Christmas and birthday. Her tree is a major event each year. There are hundreds of ornaments. Each ornament has a story to tell.

I decided that I wanted to have a tree like hers. I tried to buy an ornament for each year of each one of my kids lives. That was 122 ornaments. I tried, but I couldn't deviate from a color theme and a style. I ended up with a Santa clause tree and decorations. It's been 10 or so years and I add to it every year.

I tell my family that it isn't the result, but the process of doing what I do that makes my Christmas. Course, I'm this way with everything, the journey is fun.

GREATEST GIFTS

2008-12-13T18:43:00.000-08:00

You might remember me posting this a little while ago. I had to adjust it so I took it off and now it's back on. This is my memory quilt that I made with pictures of some of the children I have fallen in love with in Ecuador and also a picture of the new orphanage "Los Pequenitos De Osso". I have told the volunteers working in the orphanages that I would be happy to make them one, using their pictures. I hope I'll get the opportunity to make some. I have another blog called "thevolunteerquilt.blogspot.com". I will post the quilts I make.

LIGHT THE NIGHT AT SOUTH JORDAN

2008-12-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

A very exciting time was had by all last friday evening. We all went over to the ice rink at the City Center here in South Jordan. A special band was playing with a dejay who introduced the ice skater intertainment and the city officals and the lighting of the great big tree that stands in the middle of the ice rink. Then santa came to visit in the big fire truck. Everybody that wanted to got to go see him.

The funest part was, we all put on ice scates and scated to music around the big christmas tree on the ice rink. It was so much fun, the kids didn't care if they fell down, they just kept getting up. When they got too cold they had free hot chocolet and cookies. I, of course, didn't go prepared enough, my feet froze. We stayed until closing, for 3 hours.

South Jordan 7th Ward "LUNCH BUNCH"

2008-12-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

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For over 3 years now we have been enjoying the company of the sisters in our Ward once a month as we come together for lunch. This is a Relief Society activity that was started as an monthly enrichment. We encourage all and anyone to attend who would like to get to know other women in the ward. We meet all over in different restrauants. We laugh and have fun and feel good, of course the food is always great.

I wanted to post a picture and express my gratitude and love for all who come and those that will come in the future. We always have a different group of women. The most important thing that matters if that it's always on the last friday of the month at 11:30. The place changes monthly and is announced at church.

2009 Ford Fuson

2008-12-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

Six years ago Dallin and I went on a search for the perfect car. One that we both liked and we both could drive and one that he could take over when he came back from serving a mission in Argentina. It took us a few weeks but we found one. A Mitsubishi Lancer, OZ Rally. White with grey cloth interior. 4 door, sun roof, and a fin on the back. Well, I drove it for two years, he came home and wanted something different so I drove it (and loved) for 3 more years. John took me to Henry Day Ford the other day and we traded the Lancer in for a Ford Fusion. It looks quite a bit like the Lancer, a little bigger, much nicer, much smother, much quieter, and a much bigger punch. It took me a few times driving it to get use to it, but I'm going to love it.

A 12 YEAR GEILMANN TRADITION

2008-12-09T12:51:00.000-08:00

Twelve or so years ago my father in law, Earl P. Geilmann, started taking his whole family out to Thanksgiving Dinner. This tradition was started after his wife, Martha Evelyn, died. Earl P. died over 5 years ago and John's sister Marcia has continued to carry on this tradition. It's become one of our most favorite traditions because we don't get to see everybody otherwise. Time is going by so fast.

Thank you Marcia for your kind generosity. Everybody loves you.

Happy Thanksgiving to all

2008-11-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

Today is the day after thanksgiving and I have a minute so I wanted to change my background for Christmas and post a new blog. However, this does not mean that I'm skipping over Thanksgiving. On the contrary, my life has been so crazy meeting deadlines since I came back from Ecuador in October that I haven't been able to keep up. I have been sewing. I can't tell you what I've been sewing because it's a surprise, but I will post you pictures when I can.

I want to express to you my gratitude to a Heavenly Father who continues to show me his tender mercies daily. My life itself is a mercy - one that I recognize daily. I'm not sure of my Father's plan for me, but I try continuously to be ready. This Thanksgiving was spent with some of (not all) our children and grandchildren. I enjoyed preparing the traditional meal with the help of my John and our granddaughter Kacie. We also enjoyed preparing the dinning room table. Everyone enjoyed each others' company. We are a very strong family and there is a large amount of love to give. Even when part of us isn't here, I can feel their presence in spirit.

4th annual park city sleep over

2008-11-19T20:05:00.000-08:00

Four years ago I decided that I wanted to have some get away time with my daughters JoDell, Hillary, and Kylie. So we got a room in Park City just after Thanksgiving, we all got together, (no kids and no guys) on a Friday night and went to a nice place to eat. Then we drove to Park City to open the beginning of the Christmas season. We stayed in a nice hotel and we talked and played until we fell asleep. Saturday morning we woke and got cleaned up and had a very nice breakfast that came with the room. Then we Christmas shopped until we dropped. So much fun. Then we left and stopped at Ruby Tuesday for lunch on our way out. It was such a rewarding time, and so fun to get to know each other a little better.

We did it again the next year and the next and this year will be the 4th time. I'm very thankful that all my girls want to go and hang out with me. I'm not that much fun anymore and I've slowed down quite a bit. But I can still out shop any of them.

LIBERTY STAKE RELIEF SOCIETY

2008-11-18T15:11:00.000-08:00

I have met some very special people in my life. People that I've grown to respect and love, because of, living by them, working with them, or rubbing shoulders with them. But most important are the friends that I have been blessed to serve with in the many callings I've received over the past 37 years. Three of those wonderful people came to South Jordan and we met at Archibald's restaurant at Gardner Village. They are, Kathy Froerer, Pat Songer, and Dianne Shaw. When we lived in Liberty, I was ask to serve with these gals in the Stake Relief Society. Only the Lord knows of the importance that this was to my life at that time. Only he knew of the desperate need I had to stretch in order to heal. No, really, I didn't even know, only he knew. This came about a year after my accident that left me with pretty bad head trauma. I didn't realize it then but I do now. Without the Lord putting me in situation's that I have to really rise to, I wouldn't be able to say that "I feel now that I survived that head trauma. It's taken 8 years!

My response at seeing my friends surprised me, I was very emotional, I cried. I only see them once a year and every time I do, something very very important is filled in my heart. I am so grateful that they instigate our reunion. They are all so amazing to me.

Our time together was spent catching up, and looking for Thanksgiving and Christmas Treasures while strolling through Gardner Village in all it's Holiday decor.

Thank you Kathy, Dianne, and Pat for touching my life.

IT'S MY PARTY AND I'LL SLEEP IF I WANT TO --

2008-11-08T16:57:00.000-08:00

I ATE THE CAKE, AND THEN I FEEL ASLEEP -- MOM AND SISTER OPENED MY PRESENTS

Mr Jacks and Wyatt Henry

2008-11-07T20:33:00.000-08:00

It's the boys night at grandpas. We haven't had them together for so long. Their both so handsome and strong. Blond hair, blue eyes. Jacks is 7, a quiet boy, very smart, very focused, isn't very flexible. He loves playing Lego Batman on Dallin's X Box game. Wyatt is a talker, very athletic, very determined, and ruff. He loves playing on Dallin's machines and he loves coming to grandpas.

The favorite place to go for breakfast is Burger King. The one with the big play gym. Cheese croissants, french toast stix with syrup, and milk. Em mm Em mm Good!

They went over to the park next to our house. It has a bike trail and you can ride around and around it for hours. There is one corner that you have to slow down and carefully turn around or you'll crash flat out.

There is a beautiful place to ride around the lake in Day Break. Grandpa took our bikes an us. We had a great ride.

Then, the bubble blowning contest, rats, grandma won again. She is still the queen bubble blower.