Stephenson Family Ties The Barn Burnt Down
And Now I See The Moon

CUPCAKE THURSDAY

TODAY'S THE DAY!!


A Time present and time past
Are both perhaps present in the time future
And time future contained in time past.
If all time is eternally present
All time is unredeemable.
What might have been is an abstraction
Remaining a perpetual possibility
Only in a world of speculation.
What might have been and what has been
Point to one end, which is always present.
T.S. Eliot
Quartets


Im sure that many of you have already seen this- but this is my man Glenn Beck- showing his softer side! If you can find this guy on your morning dial, it would be well worth your time!

HUSBAND TAGGED

What is his name? William Robert Stephenson (I married a Billy Bob?)
How long have you been married? 27 glorious years and 8 months
How long did you date? 1 week (don't you dare tell the kids!)
How old is he? 50something and still the bomb!
Who eats more? ME! The man doesnt even snack between meals.
Who said "I love you" first? Im sure it was Builder Bob! He's the romantic one.
Who is taller? Builder Bob. Havent you noticed the gene pool?
Who sings better? Builder Bob once again-by a mile or measure.
Who is smarter? Again its probably Builder Bob. I do think I may have more 'street smarts' than he- but how often am I left out on a dark street all alone?
Whose temper is worse? I win this one- oh boy,oh boy- whats the prize? Oh...Im not to be so proud of this am I? I can count on one hand (maybe 2 hands- 27 yrs is a long time to live with me!)the times Builder Bob has gotten angry.
Who does the laundry? I do his laundry. Except when I dont. Sometimes I get behind. Then he pitches in, no problem at all. The kids have been doing their own laundry since they could reach the knobs.
Who does the dishes? I can take credit for this most of the time. Once again he's good to help when things get out of control.
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Does that mean when you're looking at the bed or when you're in it? Builder Bob is VERY particular about which side he sleep on. As you look at the bed, he's ALWAYS on the left.
Who pays the bills? I pay the home bills. He pays the business expenses. He makes the bread.
Who mows the lawn? Builder Bob directs the mowing of the vast expanses of grass. Brian is the official mower. Though you can catch any of us perched on the riding lawn mower any given monday in the summer.
Who cooks dinner? That would be me. But to say that I cook a lot would be a gross misnomer. We eat out a LOT!
Who drives when you are together? I love to drive. I think we share the wheel quite evenly.
Who is more stubborn? I think I win that prize also. I'll blame it on my dad. (sorry dad)
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? (refer to above answer-what do ya think?
Whose parents do you see the most? I believe that's dead even. We are so blessed to have them both right here in town.
Who proposed? Builder Bob- but I knew it was coming-regardless of having known him only 7 days!
Who has more friends? Me.
Who has more siblings? Builder Bob-6; Me-1
Who wears the pants in the family? I think that that would be Builder Bob, but....but....


Thanks for the fun tag Christy!

Sharon Will Be Celebrating Tomorrow!


Gentle thoughts for today:
1. Birds of a feather flock together and poop on your car.
2. There's always a lot to be thankful for if you take time to look for it. For example I am sitting here thinking how nice it is that wrinkles don't hurt.
3. The sole purpose of a child's middle name is so he can tell when he's really in trouble.
4. If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague.
5. Don't assume malice for what stupidity can explain.
6. A penny saved is a government oversight.
7. The real art of conversation is not only to say the right thing at the right time, but also to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.
8. If you can smile when things go wrong, you have someone in mind to blame.
9. The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
10. He who hesitates is probably right.
11. If you think there is good in everybody, you haven't met everybody.
12. Did you ever notice: When you put the 2 words "The" and "IRS" together it spells "THEIRS"?

Happy birthday Sharon!! I have no idea why I was so blessed to fall in among such wonderful sisters when I married Builder Bob!! But I am forever grateful! Im so grateful for your friendship, love and kindness. I am so grateful for your example in my life. Have a wonderful day with family and friends! Wish we could be there to share in some cake!

WHO'S COOL



Our Lachlan -a.k.a.- Bubba,is the coolest! He's the bomb!! (though I'd like you to notice that Builder Bob ain't so bad either!)

Do you remember when try'n to be cool was all there was to life?
May I share a few things about what it was like to attempt to be cool in the 70's? I say attempt, because that was as close as I got to being cool. Only sorry attempts.

First a small refresher course on what was considered cool and to reacquaint you with what was going on in the 70's. Also, remember, I was NEVER cool.

What I had playing on my turntable was the likes of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, Santana and Chicago. But to keep myself safely excluded from the cool list, I could also be found listening to Seals and Crofts and even Bread. I loved Billy Joel and Jefferson Starship, but also enjoyed John Denver. Never truly cool

In 1972 the skateboard was invented. One turned up at our home and I distinctly remember crashing to the sidewalk with about as much uncoolness as an adolescent girl could muster.

I wore bikini bathing suits and slathered on generous amounts of coconut oil and baked in the sun for hours. (oh wait a minute, I still do that dont I? Minus the bikini) I know now just how uncool that behavior is, due to the prominent wrinkles developing on every square inch of skin surface, and yes..... I still do it, though I do protect my face from here on out! coolness-wrinkles-coolness-
wrinkles...hummmmm?????


I wore puka shell necklaces, the same as my boyfriend. I wore the Gunni Sax dress and the mood ring, to see if this could make me cool-to no avail. I wore cutoff denim shorts that cause me to shudder with embarrassment right now. I was no Dasiy Mae to be sure!!(though Builder Bob to this day still admits to admiring me in my white short shorts, as I strolled across campus one day) I wore the gathered neck halter tops and Dr Scholl sandals and clogs. None of these things helped me to achieve any advancement in coolness. Most of it sunk me further into ridiculousness.

I read like a geek.(was this a word we used back in the 70's?) I read books of all varieties. Jaws, and Lord of the Rings, Love Story and The Exorcist. Books by Leon Uris and teenage romances. Im not sure that this was the activity of a cool kid, but this was just something I did and loved.

For a time I even worked at McDonalds. I really enjoyed working there. It was a lot of fun. It really was. How 'cool' is that?

No, I definitely wasnt cool. I was tall; taller than most of the boys. I was and still am flat chested. My mom sewed many of my clothes. I didnt have an older sister to show me how to wear make-up or tell me what to wear or more importantly, what NOT to wear. I never dared to wear the platform shoes that were so popular 'cause I was already tall and gangly enough. I hung out at the 'stoners' corner of the high school(every school has one);not really fitting in there, but definitely not fitting in with the jocks or the brains or the cheerleader types either.

I was doing the uncool thing of floundering where 'er I went.

I suppose the cool kids knew they were cool. I have no idea-even now- what that would feel like. But guess what.... ?
I wonder if those kids are still cool?
I wonder if they are any better off than I?
I wonder if they are any happier than 'uncool' me?
I wonder if it really matters much who you think you are in jr. high or high school?

Here's how it all turned out for little ole me-
I can honestly say that being 40 something is definitely the coolest. I have no idea what 50 somethings has in store for me- but I have high hopes. I plan of being a groovy grandma, a cool mother and mother-in-law and a hip adventurist and a far out Senior Citizen!!

Growing up is tough- to be sure. There's no other way to describe it. Trying to be cool complicates matters even more than they already are for most of us. Did being cool in jr. high and high school matter much in the grand scheme of things??....I think not.
There are a lot of folks who think they are pretty neat, who really aren't. And there are a lot more who don't realize they are.

Stay cool to all of you that I know and love.
Peace out!

2 DAYS!!



Is Jack's father still alive in Jack's 'new' future, if it is a new future?


Where oh where did the modern washer and dryer come from that are seen in the hatch?






Come on...Locke is a major head case!!!

FAREWELL TO A PROPHET



WE WILL MISS HIM GREATLY! I will do my best to show him gratitude for all he has done, by living better, and being better!
BEFORE



















BEFORE


And yes- there was a monetary bribe involved! And a lot of sibling pressure!

But it got done, and we had a LOT of fun doing it! You should have seen the impressive pile of hair on the floor when we were through!

Thanks guys for being such good sports!
Thanks Chelsea for the pics and the help with the cuts.

Now the boys look even more fantastic!

Is this the look of future missionaries?

What do ya think?
Anna will be thrilled to learn that the locks are trimmed. She hated seeing her handsome brothers with such sloppy do's.

Two Birthdays Today



Sometimes we just need to remember WHAT the Rules of Life really are...

1.You need only two tools. WD-40 and duct tape.
If it doesn't move and it should, use WD-40.
If it moves and shouldn't, use the tape.
2.The five most essential words for a healthy, vital relationship are:
"I apologize" and "You are right."
3.Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.
4.When you make a mistake, make amends immediately.
It's easier to eat crow while it's still warm.
5.The best advice that your mother ever gave you was.
"Go! You might meet somebody!"
6. If he/she says that you are too good for him/her--believe them.
7. Learn to pick your battles; ask yourself, 'Will this matter one year from now?
How about one month? One week? One day?'
8. Never pass up an opportunity to pee.
9. If you woke up breathing, congratulations! You have another chance!
10. Living well really is the best revenge. Being miserable because of a bad or former relationship just might mean that the other person was right about you.
11. Work is good, but it's not that important.
12. Be really nice to your friends. You never know when you are going to need them to empty your bedpan.

Happy Birthday Scott! All of us land-locked flunkies, are quite jealous right now, that you seem to know just how to celebrate your birthday!! We wish you the very best in all you do. Have fun! Dont get too sunburned, or stuff yourself too full.
(can you hear the jealousy in my words?!!)

3 DAYS!!



Is Jacob Bens father? thought: In the Bible, Jacobs' wife Rachel, died while giving birth to Benjamin.

Can you remember the 'cursed numbers' of Hurley's lotto ticket?

Happy Birthday Jan!!


*Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional.

*Forget the health food. I need all the preservatives I can get.

*You're getting old when you get the same sensation from a rocking chair that you once got from a roller coaster.

*One of the life's mysteries is how a two pound box of candy can make a person gain five pounds.

*My mind not only wanders, sometimes it leaves completely.

*I was put on earth to accomplish a certain number of things. Right now, I am so far behind, I will live forever.

*Time may be a great healer, but it's also a rotten beautician.

*Brain cells come and brain cells go, but fat cells live forever.

*You don't stop laughing because you grow old; you grow old because you stop laughing.

*WOMEN Remember, as we get older we no longer have hot flashes. We now have power surges.

*Amazing! You just hang something in your closet for a while, and it shrinks two sizes.

*Seen it all, done it all, can't remember most of it.


Jan- its great that we've really reached the point in our lives that we can truly laugh at ourselves and our unpredictable lives. Thank heavens we have each other. thank heavens for YOU!! I wish we lived closer-so we could share a drink and a donut or whatever would ring your bell!! Just look at this next year as one bringing you closer to becoming a nurse!!! You are so awesome and I love you madly!! If you feel as though you're drowning, come on down and sooth yourself in our sun and company!

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRIEND JAN!

Mrs Miniver

I dont know how I ever missed seeing this movie- for I have seen MANY movies in my lifetime thus far. On the other hand,I also realize that if I had seen this movie at some earlier time in my life, I would NEVER have appreciated it as much as I did while viewing it this last week!



I dont want to be guilty of being a "spoiler"-so I will tread lightly in the sharing of my impressions and why this old black and white movie has moved me so.


First impression- As a mother of grown-up boys, I sometimes 'see' movies in a whole new light. And the enlightenment I found in this movie is highlighted even more because there is a war going on. This movie captures exquisitely the emotions a mother feels as their sons grow to manhood and join the cause of freedom. (which is a no-brainer really.duh)



Second Impression- a POWERFUL war story can be told and FELT without any show of actual violence or bloodshed! This movie is proof positive of this!!! War is hell!! Many, many boys and men and innocent bystanders are killed by war! (yet another no-brainer. duh)
Picture yourself and your young family holed up in a bunker that you built in your own back yard. Picture having to use this bunker on many occasions as bombs and bullets and warfare go on above? What will you find when you can finally emerge from your hole in the ground?


This movie was about many things! To many to list really. But the main thing I gleaned from it was to appreciate the simple pleasures in life and to share these pleasures with family, friends and loved ones at every opportunity that we may. Hope springs eternal, as does love and marriage.
What an amazing movie! This movie maker knew how to tell a story, to be sure!!!

SACRED SUNDAY

There are two main pitfalls on the road to mastery of the art of prayer. If a person gets what he asks for, his humility is in danger. If he fails to get what he asks for, he is apt to lose confidence. Indeed, no matter whether prayer seems to be succeeding or failing, humility and confidence are two virtues which are absolutely essential.
-- A Trappist Monk

My thoughts on prayer:

>I wouldn't dare live without it. Probably couldnt.

>I have a pretty vivid memory of the first time I ever prayed.
I was a senior in high school. Living in California. I was attempting to get through the Book of Mormon. note: Most Mormons are praying on their knees before they can even walk. I had never even considered such an activity before the age of 17! Picture a prideful teenager, in her bedroom, using EXTREME faith to kneel and pray. enough said about that.

>Im sure Im rather unorthidox in my methods of prayer.

>I dont pray 'well' or eloquently, or often enough.
Im not much of a communicator, just ask Builder Bob.

>I 'pray' all the time if you count my utterances of gratitude that I send heavenward.

>Once again, Builder Bob is my perfect example.

>I have LOVED how our returned missionaries have prayed. They were so close to their Heavenly Father. I could still feel the complete reliance on Him.

>I know I can pray anywhere-about anything.

>I can remember my first prayer spoken out loud in front of others. It was very frightening and I was physically sick. (Im still quite ill at ease when asked to pray in front of others.)

>I am grateful for the ability to communicate with a loving Father. I do know that He hears and does answer!He knows my heart, even if my words are halting and weak. Its truly as simple as that.

4 DAYS!!!



Where the heck is Michael??

Dont forget- Jack and Claire are siblings!!!




Would Saywer look as hot with short hair?
I HOPE EVERYONE IS CHECKING OUT MY 'DANCE A DAY' LINK ON THE SIDE BAR! IM SURE HAVING FUN SHARING WHAT I FIND OUT IN INTERNET WORLD.

Christy birthday


(Christy is in the pink, in the center! So cute!)


Eternal Truths
1. If it weren't for STRESS I'd have no energy at all.
2. Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film.
3. I know God won't give me more than I can handle. I just wish He didn't trust me so much.
4. Dogs have owners. Cats have staff.
5. We cannot change the direction of the wind ... but we can adjust our sails.
6. Some days are a total waste of makeup.
7. Do you believe in love at first sight ... or should I walk by you again?
8. If the shoe fits......buy it in every color.
9. Men are from earth. Women are from earth. Deal with it.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRISTY! Its been a fun 5 months getting to know you better! Thank heavens for blogs~ Its been so delightful seeing your family and learning what you think about, what you read, and even a little about Nashville. May we all blog forever!!! Have a great birthday, and a great year- I bet you will.

BIG day in Vegas!!

Our crack sales team heads south to show the world the beauties of Sojourn!!


And of course the beauties are headed to the Shopping in Vegas!
Best of luck to them all!!
Im SOOOOOOoooo happy to stay home and play with Lachlan!
Lucky me!!!

5 DAYS!!!



Whose funeral did we see at the end of season 3!!??

Who is getting off the Island?



Is there a Jacob? Why does he say "Help Me!"?

6 DAYS!!!



Have you noticed that everyone on the Island has "daddy" issues?
Kate, Jack, Ben, Hurley, Sun, Claire,Locke, and Sawyer!!



Are we not all "LOST" souls?

CUPCAKE THURSDAY!


OK!! These were fun!! And yes, I harvested the pansies right out my back door, just 10 minutes ago!! ( I LOVE St George!!) And, bonus... they smell divine! Not the cupcakes, but the pansies!!! The smell of chocolate, vanilla and pansies- how does it get any better than that!?

Wishes!

I had a neighbor who had a hollowed out section of a tree in their backyard. It became the host to a fairy's home. Mom and the kids made miniature furniture and clothes and household items to furnish this cozy abode. They would go out often to check on this sweet home and add adornments and sometimes find that things had been rearranged to the occupants likings. To have small children anticipate and wonder at the mysterious....to believe that there are 'powers" out there that are beyond explanation....is delightful.

Not too long ago I read an essay on the benefits of enchantment. Ms. Kenison writes about the hurry we seem to be in to steer our kids towards accomplishment and independence, forgetting what it is to be a child. Children are full of tenderness and innocence, and joy! Shouldnt we try to have this wonder last for as long as possible? Dont we all sometimes long to revisit that 'child-like' wonder we used to feel, and to experience that bewitching magic and enchantment once in a while? What is the harm in culitivating this feeling of wonder, in all of our lives?
Alex Haily said- "Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of children."

Grandparents and brownies, fairies, and pixies and sprites, all share a unique job description !! (I want the blue wings!) I cant wait to bring light and stardust and delight and the wonder of possibilities to my kiddies. Its now in my JOB description! Im going to love this job! Even more than I love my present job of hiking with our spa guests. I 'wish' my home to be a refuge from the scary world. I have big plans and simple plans!!!What a blessing it is to be a grandma. What a perfect plan that God has put in place for us all. We toil, we sweat, we cry and ache our way through parenting. Plus we try to enjoy all the moments in between. Then - vola- we become grandparents! Our reward!! Now we PLAY!! We become the soft place. And I fully intend to enlist all the brownies and fairies and pixies and sprites that I can find!!!

I keep three wishes ready,
Least I should chance to meet,
Any day a fairy
Coming down the street.
I'd hate to have to stammer,
Or have to think them out,
For it's very hard to think things up
When a fairy is about.
And I'd hate to lose my wishes,
For fairies fly away,
And perhaps I'd never have a chance
On any other day.
So I keep three wishes ready,
Lest I should chance to meet,
Any day a fairy
Coming down the street.

Annette Wynne

















By the way,I have a few wishes:

I wish the war would end and our warriors could come home.
I wish politicians would tell the truth.
I wish we were a kinder, gentler humanity.
I wish I could sing and dance- likethis
I wish there was no greed.
I wish I could winter in Mexico.
I wish I had a brownie that was willing to do windows.
To name only a few.

7 DAYS!!!

Do you remember all the questions we have???
Here are just a few to get the pumps primed-

Is the Russian indestructible?!!

Is there a Fountain of Youth on the Island?




Is Jacob the Island?

What's with the smoke monster?


THERE IS NO BETTER DAY THAN PICTURE AND LETTER DAY FROM ANNA!!!


Butterflies Are Free


I just rediscovered last night, why everyone loved Goldie Hawn in the 70's!!! What a luminous face, what a twig of a body! How could one not help but smile as you gaze upon that beaming face?
This was a delightful film, that moved along quickly and the dialogue was quirky and funny and securely placed in the 70's- "groovy man!" Once again she played her part well as the ditzy blonde that wins the hearts of all who meet her. Her trademark of being the perky, wide-eyed blonde has served her very well.
Who can't remember sitting around the tv in the evening watching Goldie preform on Laugh-In, as a go-go dancer in a bikini? Or seeing her cute little face pop out from behind one of those colorful doors with a giggle and a joke? (Oh my, weren't the late 60's and early 70's a gas?) This was a fun one!!! Peace out!!