Im like a light-weight electron, lonely and out of 

place, orbiting a room full of heavy-weight protons.

from: Fizz

by: Zui Schrelber

So I've gone and done it. I've turned in my letter of resignation. It was a tough decision to make, for these last 8 months have widened my horizons, opened my heart to a whole new kind of love and have wizened me up a bit.  Who knew that being a PE teacher could do all that for you??!! I've made new friends, and I deeply care for and love more than 300 kids and my feelings about public schools have been altered for the better.

Dear Sue,

Im writing you to say thank you. To acknowledge how very kind and generous you have been  to me throughout this very tumultuous last year of mine. You will always find me eternally grateful for your support.  But now it appears that coming back to work at Ellis is not in the cards for me.  Admitting this makes me quite sad….  much sadder than I expected in fact.  For this truly has been a school year filled with much joy and satisfaction.

Nobody prepared me for falling in love with 300+ kids!! And who knew that a school is actually a living, breathing, empathizing, generous, selfless ‘being’, with YOU as their fearless leader and model!!?   My eyes have been opened!!

I had many a kid attending public schools years ago….and I suppose I just didn’t pay close attention to its inner workings way back then.  Today I’m in awe.  I never understood the impact that a GOOD principal has on a school AND on its community.  You and your dedicated teachers and staff have been a wondrous thing to behold.  It was indeed a privilege to have rubbed shoulders and to learn from you Sue.  But my crazy life and my many feelings of inadequacy, plus my unknown future have now led me to this difficult decision to resign.

This has been a very gratifying year in my life. I will look back at this chapter with the warmest of memories and as a changed woman.  I am grateful that you gave me a shot and the opportunity. So very grateful!  I feel real sorrow when I realize that I wont enjoy the rich blessings of seeing and interacting with your beautiful children next year,  whom I have come to deeply love. (and…if by some good fortune of mine, I find that I haven’t burned my bridges to thoroughly, maybe I could come back next year just as a volunteer?)

Again,thank you so much Sue.  I pray that you find a more qualified P.E. replacement for this grateful, “limited in skill”, grandma that I am.

With much love and respect,

I cant imagine my replacement loving these kids more than I,,,but I am SURE that they will be better coached. Whoever follows in  my footsteps will undoubtedly be more skilled in teaching  the finer points of basketball, soccer and tether-ball etc, etc, etc.  I had no confidence in my ability to do this....but boy did we have fun playing all sorts of games.  Sure, I raised 4 boys...but I havent a clue how to teach the proper dribbling of a basketball or even how to call off-sides in soccer.  How was I thinking that I could possibly control a soccer game with 5th grade Latino boys and white boys all with various skill levels and with aggression and competitive issues.  It aint happening!  We just didnt go there at all.  I attempted some basketball drills and soccer drills but that was the extent of it. I was a glorified camp director of sorts instead of being the 'coach' they all need.  

Beside all this...Im longing to turn in the whistle and put my Mimi hat back on.  It may be  a selfish thing to want to spend more time with our grands...at this juncture in life, but thats what Im choosing to do for the next little while. This is my greatest desire. 

There are about 10 days of school left...and we all remember what these days are like.  There will be Field Day, Faculty Follies, a choir concert, the community Fun Run, more testing, random field trips and a faculty party...

and then this chapter of my life will end. I truly gave it my best.  I will miss the kids and the people I have worked with.  But now I say..."bring on the grands!"

1st grade toothless smiles are the best!

PS- (other random thoughts on this day) Dont you hate it when you spend a significant amount of money on a 'good ' mattress...and then wait the allotted 160 days of 'free trail" and then decide that its not so great a mattress!!!??  Ugh!!

PSS- dont you just love those 6 perfectly ripe, unbruised avocados that come in those mesh bags at Sams Club!!??? YUM!!!

Learning sleeps and snores in libraries,

but wisdom is everywhere, wide awake, on tip toe.

-Josh Billings

Dearest Clark and Jenna
I know it didnt take a lot of arm twisting to get you out to beautiful Utah for Christmas break...but it did seem a bit tedious for you once you got here, maybe...due to flu and an overwhelming amount of family wishing to spend time with you both.(But cafe rio was worth it alone right!!??)
O how very grateful we all are that you came!! My guess is that  it'll go down as one of the more memorable holidays for most us us. How often will we get the whole family together again?  Hopefully many, many, many, times..but one never knows when the Universe is in charge do we?
If I were in charge  we gladly  eat, visit, watch movies and visit some more..for it should happen as often as possible!! When the Universe is in charge we learn to grab every opportunity to be together...for time seems to whizzz by and we always seem too busy for our own good...except maybe for you two at times..as you make your way thru medical school.
Every moment with you was a treasure. The cold temps were bracing, the flu sucked, and the constant questioning about your schooling may have been a drag...but all in all we hope the week was as good for you as it was for the rest of us.
I loved visiting, eating out, playing games, watching movies, and just hanging out doing make-up. I loved that we were together for New Years Eve...thanks always to Hotel Ehlert and friends!!
Family Family Family!!! Its ones greatest joy...so we thank you for the  sharing of yourselves! Thank you for the memories! Hopefully your batteries have been recharged, and your burnout and fatigue have been extinguished.  And that  you will once again enjoy the rigors of school.
You are a remarkable couple.   Your strengths and your weaknesses will all  work for your betterment if you let them alchemize into something rare and precious. I see glimmers of greatness  and beauty already. Be patient with one another. Find your path...your happiness...and live in the present....for that is our own greatest gift.
Nobody knows where your journey  will lead you....but as it has been made blatantly apparent to you again over this break, we all want to watch, learn and encourage you along your way....whereever it may take you.
Happy New Years you two!
You are loved!!

Those who move forward with a happy spirit

will find that things will always work out.

from: A Cherry on Top

quoting: Gordan B Hinckley

by: Ben Behunin

Dear Dan,
When I first start  writing about the people I love, I start a list in the margins of whatever notebook I have nearby. My list about you began like this...
1st...he flies under the radar. (note #27 below)
2nd...he's the youngest child..thus #1
3rd...teenage pranks and a drunk neighbor caused parents grief.
4th...feeling bad that we dont know each other very well..if we did, I think we'd discover that we have a lot in common.
5th..you can drive a car, a jet ski, and a huge houseboat....and most certainly many other things that I havent thought of.
After the list was started I quickly became fixated on the 'youngest child' thing. The youngest Ehlert child.  That is you. I have a youngest child. He is Bri. Its interesting stuff..this birth order theory.
Just think of it...
A newborn never came home in your moms arms to rocked your world. You will always be the baby.  Do you feel babied? I can guarantee that your siblings think you have been. I've also heard that the youngest child tends to always appear youthful..throughout their lives. Lucky you!!
Can you still hear your brothers and sisters complain, "He's spoiled! He's pampered and indulged!!?"  But Im thinking thats going to work in your favor as well. Because you were protected and cottled, you will just expect good things to happen to you all your life...as you should...and Im a whole hearted believer in the self fulfilling prophecy thing!! Im guessing you're going to be one of those lovely men whose glass is always full.  Thats a wonderful quality in a person.  Also...how could you not have watched and learned..just as I know Brian did..that charming your way to something you want is a whole lot more effective than being a pill.  I see charming in you already..plus a knock-out smile!! The world will find you charming Dan. Lucky you.
Did any of your siblings run for student body offices...I guess I dont know the answer to that...like I should..but I know you have...using that charm and friendliness and easy going attitude. Yep..Im willing to wager you enjoy the 'easy going' gene.  Embrace it my friend.

I googled "birth order" and found this fun list for your amusement!!

Here are 28 signs you're dealing with a youngest child:

 1. Entitled to nothing. Really. Not even a seat at the dinner table is guaranteed.
 2. Happy to sit in the back seat of the car well into adulthood. The way, way back? Totally fine with that, too. 
3. Buys used cars, second -hand clothes and "vintage" furniture. What is this thing you call "first-hand?"
 4. Will never make fiancée sit through the traditional post-engagement evening of Going Through the Family Photo Album to Look at Pictures of Childhood because there are no pictures of childhood.
 5. Answers to almost any name. Literally, any name.
 6. Constantly surprises older siblings with references to "playing on the high school tennis team" or "going to college," as older siblings have no recollection of any of these events.
 7. Has photographic memory of every event that happened to older siblings, including what they were wearing and what Mom yelled.
 8. Rarely expects a bed at large family gatherings. Prefers futons, couches or tent in the backyard, just like childhood.
 9. Has a record collection that includes four copies of Boz Scaggs' "Silk Degrees" inherited from older siblings.
 10. Has a book collection that includes seven copies of The Catcher in the Rye and four copies of Go Ask Alice.
 11. Never expects to be served first.
 12. Does expect to do have to do the dishes anywhere, anytime, at any event.
 13. Occasionally stuns family with competency...
 14. ...But still treated like 14-year old.
 15. Pleased as punch to finally make it to the Grown-Up Table in mid-thirties.
 16. Personal motto: I wasn't born yet.
 17. Will never bore you with stories of family trips to national parks because the car wasn't big enough for the entire family, if you know what I mean.
 18. Barely got a word in edgewise until age 15. Now a very good listener.
 19. Enjoys being decades younger than siblings in adulthood. Really, really enjoys it. Like not in a healthy way.
 20. Leaves the room when older siblings reminisce about "the Christmas we all got new skis."
 21. Keeper of all the family high school yearbooks for some reason.
 22. Thrilled at spacious college dorm room and awesome bunk bed.
 23. High levels of proficiency in laundry, sandwich-making, entertaining oneself and waiting.
 24. Large vocabulary.
 25. Never even reaches for the remote. Why bother?
 26. Learns from others' mistakes.
 27. Stays under radar.
 28. Gets away with murder.
found here

Enjoy the journey Dan...and stop denying that you're not nor never have gotten away with murder!!
I'm old enough to be your Aunt..so I know!!
Love you handsome!!

Taking joy in life is a woman's best cosmetic. 

-Rosalind Russell

Dearest Lois,
You've just had a birthday..and if I were a bet'in lady..I'd wager a huge pile of cash that NOBODY could   accurately guess your age...due to that darling face!!  For a woman who's visited deaths door and back...you could and do fool us all!!
Always a hip hair style, a closet full of cute shoes, the latest fashions adorning your trim bod, and an ever present smile, plus that contagious laugh, with the wit of a well paid comedian, all lend to your youthful appearance. I doubt we'll ever see a time that you'll be found just standing on the sidelines of life.  You're creative, resilient and enjoy a  feisty spirit that will forever keep you young my kindred spirit friend.
Your gift is seeing and building a life full of inspiring and fulfilling adventures. You are full of love and you spread that love wherever you go. When you're in a room full of people, EVERYONE  feels of your love and your exuberance for life.Your radiance is contagious...and all that speak to you come away feeling happier and appreciated. What a gift you have my friend. What a gift.
This one is for you Lois!!
May you always be your luscious self with a cherry on top!!!
Love you!!

MORE WHIPPED CREAM PLEASE

I have a new delightful friend, 

I'm almost in awe of her.

 When we first met I was impressed, 

By her bizarre behavior.

 That day I had a date with friends, 

We met to have some lunch.

 Mae had come along with them, 

All in all - a pleasant bunch.

 When the menus were presented, 

We ordered salads, sandwiches, and soups. 

Except for Mae who circumvented,

 And said, "Ice cream, please. Two scoops."

 I was not sure my ears heard right, 

And the others were aghast.

 "Along with heated apple pie,"

 Mae smiled, completely unabashed.

 We tried to act quite nonchalant,

 As if people did this all the time. 

But when our orders were brought out,

 I did not enjoy mine.

 I could not take my eyes off Mae, 

As her pie ala-mode went down.

 The other ladies showed dismay, 

They ate their lunches, and they frowned.

 Well, the next time I went out to eat, 

I called and invited Mae. 

My lunch contained white tuna meat, 

She ordered a parfait.

 I smiled when her dish I viewed, 

She asked if she amused me.

 I answered, "Yes, you do,

 And you also do confuse me."

 "How come you order rich desserts 

When I feel I must be sensible?" 

She laughed and said, with wanton mirth,

 "I am tasting all that's possible."

 "I try to eat the food I need, 

And do the things I should. 

But life's so short, my friend, indeed, 

I hate missing out on something good."

 "This year I realized I was old," 

She grinned, "I've not been this old before. 

So, before I die, I've got to try, 

Those things for years I have ignored.

 "I've not smelled all the flowers yet, 

And too many books I have not read. 

There're more fudge sundaes to woof down, 

And kites to be flown overhead."

 "There're many malls I have not shopped, 

I've not laughed at all the jokes.

 I've missed a lot of Broadway Hits,

 And potato chips and cokes."

 "I want to wade again in water,

 And feel ocean spray upon my face. 

Sit in a country church once more, 

And thank God for His grace."

 "I want peanut butter every day, 

Spread on my morning toast,

 I want un-timed long distance calls, 

To the folks I love the most."

 "I've not cried at all the movies yet, 

Nor walked in the morning rain.

 I need to feel wind in my hair,

 I want to fall in love again."

 "So, if I choose to have dessert, 

Instead of having dinner,

 If I should die before nightfall, 

You'd have to say I died a winner."

 "That I missed out on nothing, 

That I had my heart's desire. 

That I had that final chocolate mousse, 

Before my life expired."

 With that, I called the waitress over, 

"I've changed my mind, it seems." I said, 

"I want what she is having, 

Only add some more whipped cream." 

 Virginia (Ginny) Ellis Copyright, 2000

How often it is that an idea that seems bright and bossed 

and gleaming in its clarity when examined in a church, or

argued over with a friend in a frosty garden, becomes clouded

and murk-stained when dragged out into the field of actual endeavor?

from: March

by: Geraldine Brooks

Dearest Nick,
My aging brain really cant remember just how long we've been friends...it could be as long as 15 yrs..for that is how long My Builder and I have lived in St George, starting in Bloomington 5th ward.  You have now  have given me cause  to shudder at the thought that this could have been our last year.

You and I have served together in church. (not earning a dime...but earning brownie points in heaven..here's why.)
We've hiked together for years...for Desert Cliffs and for extracurricular activity and exploration.
And we even worked together on the ZNHA board.
Good times my friend!!
I may have taken for granted this friendship of ours my friend. But no longer!  Almost loosing you just 6 weeks ago..hones ones perspective on things.
If I were asked to describe you, the first thing I would have said was, "he's cautious to a fault. A kill joy at times for all his careful measures."
I'd use words like 'over protective' and peaceful too...plus being like a teddy bear with an attitude.
So you can well imagine the shock and disbelief I felt when I learned about your accident.  How can one so careful and meticulous and so focused on safety have such a thing happen to him!!!?? (If it could happen to YOU, it could happen to anyone...thats the truth of it!!)
6 weeks ago the stars must have misaligned...orbits must have been out of kilter...something extraordinary must have shifted in the cosmos to have such a accident to occur.
One decision, followed by several other uncharacteristic casual choices led to unfortunate events and near catastrophe!! Pride and reluctance to bother others, plus not wearing a helmet were huge factors too .  WHAT!!!?? Wait!!! Nick not wearing a helmet while repelling!!!? Unheard of!!  No anchor to be found in the mountain side!!!?? How could this be!!!??  Not being patient..and waiting for help!!?? oops..I suppose this last characteristic isnt too hard to imagine in you my friend. Sorry...patience is neither of our strong points. Several risky choices made in the matter of minutes led to near tragedy.
Whenever I picture you free falling 50 ft...5 stories...onto unforgiving sandstone in a slot canyon..my stomach does flipflops!! That's nightmare material  my friend.
Oh Nick...
your dear wife is right...
No more daredevil activities for you dear friend! Mothballing your gear will be hard...no doubt about it. But it'll be worth it in the end. Staying married to dear Kim is essential.  And hanging up those ropes will increase your odds of living to hike again. Kims ultimatum for staying married sounds perfectly rational to me!!
You have lived,  thrived and survived something most people don't. Please dont press your luck. Please comply to Kims wishes. You're alive to hike again!!! What a miracle and a gift!! You'll live to watch your grands grow old and to hike with you!! What a blessing..for you, and for the rest of us mere mortals who have no such tale to tell...angels must have cushioned that fall...and we all know it.  You have grand and wonderful things still to do...and I cant wait to see what they are!!
Bless you friend,

"I have a theory," she replied. "I remember thinking long ago,

'were loved infinitely for however little bit of time we have.' 

And its not ultimately tragic to die at any age. Whether we're

talking about being blown into little pieces or, what is ultimate

tragedy. (I just think there isn't ultimate tragedy except for 

evil, and God doesnt will any evil.) And we're surrounded by-

I tell little kids about the Good Shepherd, I think its a great image

for them, but the vine and the branches is great too-) but whether

we feel it or not, we are surrounded by this tremendously loving

presence, and that covers every second of every day. Of everybody.

from: Strength in What Remains

by: Tracy Kidder

Dearest Lexi...
All my scrapbooks are packed away for safe keeping...but if they werent in boxes I would have littered this post with all the darling pics I have of you as a chubby baby girl!! (whew...you dodged that bullet from your crazy aunt didnt you!!!??)
I miss you Lexi!! Truly I do.
Your dad says its been nearly 2 years since you went North. It seems longer than that. Much longer.
I grew accustomed to seeing your darling face at the Bloomington Subway, sporting those timeless fashion accessories- the black visor and black golf shirt. I bet you were sorry to hang those up for the last time!! I should have taken better advantage of your working  only a few blocks away. I have regrets. Dang our regrets!!!
I wish we were better friends. There is no such thing as too many friends...especially when you're an old lady like me...and even more so when those friends are family.  It should be easier that way...but sometimes it just isnt. Dang it again.
You are a special young lady my wanna- be-your- friend friend. Special in a good way-not special in an awkward way....  Im just  wondering...were you EVER awkward??!!

(this is me...as a sophomore in high school...now that's AWKWARD!!!!)
Never have you been this awkward..or this "special"...Im sure of it.

But you are indeed  special, because some of us who have known you the longest, know things and remember things that are very tender and sacred about you. You were too young at the time and cant possibly  remember them  now...but Im sure you've heard the story that  Im about to relate...probably more than once or twice.  Im willing to wager though, that your spirit remembers these events...even though you have no recollection now. Oh how the world messes with our heads...but our spirits can remember and be "above it all" thank heavens....if we let them.
Im risking once again of sounding like the spiritual hippy freak that I am...and receiving permission from your good dad...to share again with you something remarkable and sacred that happened to you...and your dad...the night that your beautiful mom left this world years ago.
A tragic accident brought  so much sorrow, pain and heartache to so many people that loved your mother. And now that you are so much older, Im sure that you can picture it all in your mind...and Im sure you have times where with no difficulty you can feel it for yourself even now.  Imagine the pain and brokenness your dad felt when he received the terrible news of her death in that treacherous canyon. It is from this point that I please ask that  cut me some slack and remember that I unfortunately  dont hang on to details very well. This is what I remember your dad telling me about what happened that very night.  I do remember the phone call I had from your dad that morning to tell me what happened. I remember dropping every thing and heading south to be with you and your dad.  I remember just a few days before Leah's funeral, your dad relating to me...and others Im sure...what he experienced the night of the accident. You were in your room, sleeping in your crib. You're dad was shocked, dazed and brokenhearted. Then suddenly you woke up and started to fuss.  (I guess this was unusual for you...you were a dozer baby, a good sleeper, like most of my kids were.) Your dad headed down the hall to your room, to check on you, but before he could open the door, you stopped crying and just babbled and cooed for a bit.  It was at that moment that  your dad just knew...had the very distinct impression that your mom was there in the room with you...to calm you and to say good-bye.  This rang true to me then...and as I write this now..it still rings true to my heart. What mother wouldnt choose to do this last thing...before moving on??!!
I pray my dear niece, that this reminder will only bring you peace and comfort. It is a hard knock world out there and these reminders of tender, miraculous things do indeed  help us  ease our way sometimes. And in your case I think they happen more frequently than we know. All of us need to open our hearts and minds and seek out these gifts.
Believe that you are special Lexi. Many of us know it, and your mom of course does as do your family here.
I understand that you have had another experience with a very thin veil. With your wild and crazy and adoring Grandpa Chad. Cherish these experiences Lexi. Keep them in the forefront of your thoughts. For they are gifts, and many, many of us are not as blessed with such faith building gifts.
Faith is a gift.
Faith that there's something better on the 'other side.'
Faith that there is only goodness and love through the veil.
Faith in something worth striving for, and making those on the other side proud of us.

I think we are all guilty of forgetting or not realizing just how many people love us Lexi.  I think its easy to not understand how important each and every member of our families are to each of us.

 Do you recall the movie Its A Wonderful Life...that classic Christmas story?? George believed that the world would not miss him or notice if he had never existed. Oh how wrong he was...
It took a heavenly angel to help George learn this about himself. Clarence was his name...an angel earning his wings.  You have had angel experiences my love. You know that there are folks that love you very, very much..both here and in heaven. There is a whole team of people cheering you on Lexi. They pray for you, and miss you at our less than frequent family gatherings.  Seeing you again would bring so many so much joy!!
We love you Lexi!! And we always will!!!

There is no need to fear big.  The only thing to fear is living small,

and thereby robbing yourself of hope and opportunity. Living 

small often leads to desperation, starving our lungs of oxygen and

making it difficult for us to belt out that song we have to sing.

from: Put a Cherry on Top

by: Ben Behunin

Families are  amazing and such a vitalizing and fruitful thing!! Everywhere I turn I see beautiful people that I love!!
THis week I've been thinking about you Stephen, my dear nephew-in-law. Its been fun to ponder your life...what little I know of it..and to come up with lists of things I love about you.  Granted, I dont know you well...but yet my list has grown.
First off Im going to rant a bit about those that profess that living in California might make one soft.  Whatever does that mean!!!!?? I thought soft was a good thing is this tough, hard knock world!!??
Just because its temperate...
because you dont have to fight the elements...
because plants spring up and thrive all year round...
because the ocean is close by to loll one into a state of Zenful peace...
because windows stay open and breezes ruffle the curtains..
because anything goes..and no one cares ....which I believe is a good thing...
Anyone who wants this, dreams this, is this, longs for this, is alright with me. And I happen to know that you do indeed want this again. Who knows if we'll ever have our desires fulfilled...but California dream'in is alright with me!! Anyone who loves the beach as much as I..is also alright with me!!
You are a California beach bum without the bum, but with added  panache!!
You are a man who'd give you the shirt off your back, plus your wetsuit AND  throw in your  surf board too..if I needed it. You'd bend over backwards to be sure I was  happy. Thats just the way you are!!

Stephen, you're a teenager in a mans body...with a heart as big as California. Please do not be offended by this comparison I make of you resembling a teenager...for in your  case its  a great thing!! Your spirit will never grow old! Oh what a blessed gift that is. I read book after book on how to help this be in my life...and to you it just come natural! Oh how I envy this in you my  friend.
Should anyone  be lucky enough to watch you in the kitchen...bare footed and blissful as you make breakfast or the best Lasagna I've ever eaten, they'd know what I mean by teenage spirit!!  You love learning how to make food healthy and delicious and sharing it with those that visit!! In fact, I learned something from you that we now apply in our own kitchen...instead of using Mozzarella for melty deliciousness...use Monterrey Jack!! Its so much better!!!
You are the most empathetic man I know as well. You seem to easily place yourself in anyone's shoes and feel what they are feeling...and then know how to help. I've seen you do this with your beautiful wife, and with your gaggle of boys and dear Dasiy. You've done it to me and to most of my family...and you and they may not even know that  thats whats happened...but its there!!  What a gift my friend!!
Oh how you try and try to get 'it right' my friend. Please know that you already do have it right!!  Please let your Peter Priesthood complex wash away with the Pacific tides. There is no such thing as perfection...thank heavens!! Continue to be just you!! You is what we love best!!! Peter Priesthood is boring. You are not!! Let Peter Priesthood look down his perfect nose...and you keep doing what you do best..and thats being you with a heart of gold!! We are all so very lucky to call you family my friend!!
You and beautiful Jenny are my version of perfection...with all the imperfections that none of us can escape...but you are  making it into something wonderful and better than the 'norm.'
If I had to reduce my remarks about you down to a few sentences, I would say...you lead a creative life and for that I will envy you till the day I die!! I will be looking to you for inspiration, for this is what I love the most about you and people like you...to be young and vibrant at heart...no matter the age or circumstance!!
Keep living the dream my friend...whether in California, Utah or wherever the tide takes you!!
Love YOU!!!

Stephen...Jenny said that you dont like this picture!! Are you nuts!!!??? There is no better smile and no better hair on the planet earth!!!  GQ should be banging down your door!!! Love you!!

"I'm touched by the idea that when we do things

 that are useful and helpful - collecting these shards of spirituality - 

that we may be helping to bring about a healing."

 - Leonard Nimoy

Dearest Brother in Law, healer, physician and friend,

We all have the notion that doctors receive phone calls at all odd hours, and at times of inconvenience...but now that we have a patient, loving doctor in the family...I see that the same applies to calls from family members. (Im sure that My Builder and I are not the only family members  that feel free to pick up the  phone to ask you medical questions?! ) If I think about it too much Im sure I  should blush at the personal things you know about me. 
My gratitude for you and your beautiful family knows no bounds. The support and encouragement you lend to  my family seems limitless. You and Kelly are the hosts with the mostest!! And oh how I love your beautiful children...like my own.

Your gentle ways, your warm and calming smile are gifts to all that know you.  There's no judgement  found in your heart...only encouragement for the betterment of all.  Plus you are a well-spring of good advise to all that ask. Your quiet testimony is more powerful than any speaking from a pulpit can convey. Do you think I could someday grow up to be like you?

Go Cougars!!!

Love you!

All of Lincoln's plans were both simple

and complicated.  They were tempting,

but at the same time they made you

feel doubtful before you even got started.

from: The Higher Power of Lucky

by: Susan Patron

Dearest David,

If only you could have been in on the early conversations that Anna and I had about you, when the two of you were dating and falling in love.

We would call one another and ask questions of each other as we pondered the vast and unique qualities of t this tall, dark handsome man with a brain the size of Toledo  and ideas that would fill volumes. A man with the will and knowledge to live as most people only dream of living.  What would it mean for my daughter? What would it mean for his bride? She wondered what life would be like with such a passionate, brilliant and talented man...a man who thinks differently about most everything than the rest of the human race.

We wondered if you'd go to a doctor if one of you got sick? We speculated about the prospects of her having to learn to make her own soap for washing and spinning her own wool for the clothes you'd both wear. She wondered if she'd ever wear store bought clothes again or have sweet smelling shampoo on the shower shelf....(would there be a shower...or a trough out back!!!!??)  Would their house have electricity? Would they be living miles and miles from the nearest grocery store, movie theater or Dillards or even a Walmart? Would she have to milk cows or goats?  Would their children be immunized or circumcised? Would she have babies on the couch or grind her own wheat and knead her own bread? Would you have neighbors to borrow a cup of flour when in need?

Could she embrace all your philosophies? Would you listen to hers? 

May I just say...True love is a beautiful thing....and a privilege to behold.

The world is your oyster my friend. You and my daughter are a force to be reckoned with. You learn and grow together. The bread is homemade...the boys are uncircumcised...babies are born on couches...but my daughter is blissfully happy. And she smells sweet from store bought products and buys cute clothes both online and at the trendy stores. She's as passionate about the things that you are...and is as healthy and happy as one has the right to be. 

Gratitude isnt an adequate word. Blessed. Blessed to call you son. Blessed that our daughter is so well loved. The world is a better place because of you...as you do your very best to improve it. 

Thank you David...for adoring and honoring our daughter.

Thank you for your patience.

Thank you for the super dad that you are to your adorable boys.

Bless you.

We so look forward to watching what the future has in store for the two of you. It will be amazing. Of this I am certain. 

Love you!!

I've been longing for a spark... a flicker of my writing life to ignite again.

I've been hunting for inspiration. Or a muse.

I've determined that my family is my best hope .

So here we go.

There will be random posts, in no particular order, about the people I love and call family.

First up...
my handsome nephew Matt.

"What's a philosopher?" said Brutha.

"Someone who's bright enough to find

a job with no heavy lifting," said a voice in his head.

from: Small Gods

by: Terry Pratchett

Dearest Matt,

I feel bad that I dont know you as well as I once did. Growing up and growing old has it perks and its drawbacks. You can surmise which is which in our case. Your life is full of perks and mine is filling up with drawbacks. Just know that when I do have the lucky opportunity to enjoy your company..it is always a pleasure.  Its been a joy to watch you grow up.  You were a most adorable child...and now you have become a handsome man, and an upstanding citizen. Really. You make your parents and family proud.

There arent too many adventurous souls in the family...but you definitely possess  one of them. I suppose we can blame your good parents for this...their wanderlust and spirit of their younger days has been passed on to you. And I now even I  live vicariously through your adventures my friend. 

I've learned that your friends call you tinder.

Your an engineer with the heart of an outdoors man.  

Your blood runs red....UofU red.

Mexico and Lake Powell are your home away from home...as are the challenging mountain bike trails of Utah.

If I need a brainyac, I want you on my team!

If I want action figures or Legos, I know where to go.

Proud to know ya Matt.

May 2014 bring you all the happiness and success you deserve.

May you find a wife and bring her with you on all your exciting adventures!! Double the fun my friend!!!

Love you!

Day One of my California Adventure

When active, strained vision only obscures and  frustrates,
looking away often permits the eye to see and interpret the shapes
 of what it sees.  Thus does inattention allow the mind to
register the still, small whisper of the daughter of the voice of God.
from: The BeeKeepers Apprentice
by: Laurie R King

Dearest Friend,                                                                                   9/5/13
Im on the train, with no cute paper to write on, but IM ON THE TRAIN!!
I had no idea it would take 2 1/2 hours to go from Ogden to Provo....its a fast train for petes sake. But no matter,,Im on a new adventure, and words cant begin to explain how excited, relieved and anticipatory I am for my Cally trip.  We used to

vacation a lot in days gone by. Now Im having a hard time remembering the last time I went away.
Can I just say I love trains!  They will always mean adventure to me!! Europe is ALL about trains and train stations. Oh how I revel in my memories of all the places I have been.  Just listening to this train brings some of those memories right back...the clicking and clacking and the weaving of the cars as they move along, the doors hissing open and closed. And all the different people coming and going to who knows where. Its the best!!! Just for your information...the bests trains are in Japan! Bullet trains defy imagination.
More random information...this Frontrunner cant even sell me a Pepsi-oh well-I wont let that trivial flaw get me down...Im happy to be here!
I cant wait to find you the perfect sea shell!! It'll be my mission. It'll be great!!

I plan to be on the beach every single day. I plan to learn to surf and to ride bikes, and eat lots of seafood..real seafood.
I know its  bad to start out on a trip with this encroaching attitude...but Im already trying not to think about returning home.  I need to put that out of  my mind and enjoy each day for the gift it is to be away and doing what I want to do. That will be my mantra for this trip.  ENJOY THE DAY...and stop thinking about the end of it all. Reality and Logan are hard to to swallow at times.

Since Im on the train, I wont be able to find the music and videos that you recommended me to listen to, but I promise to check them out soon.  I look forward to it.

The train is now speeding past Lagoon! Have you ever been there? I have good memories of that place too. Its not Disneyland...but we had fun there. I see that its closed for the season. So sad. That means winter is just around the corner.  Bah Humbug.

Ah...kissing on train platforms...so romantic.  silly me  This is only a commuter train.

When I get to Provo my boys will pick me up and we'll go to dinner somewhere yummy!! I think its going to be to a Pho place. Oh how I Love Pho!!  Theres a place in St George that makes pretty respectable Pho. You should try it some time. Its delish!!
Then it'll be early to bed and EARLY to rise  and start our road trip!!! Whoot whoot!!! Its going to be a 91/2 hour drive. I love road trips!!

(I suppose we are definitely going faster than the cars on the highway...so why in the world is this going to take 21/2 hours?!!?) oh yeah...Im supposed to remember to enjoy the journey!! Im too excited to nap, though the rocking and sway of the cars is conductive to sleep.

I see that I've begun to ramble. Sorry.
I'll sign off now and write again from sunny, bright California!!
Love you!!

P.S.- did you know that short shorts are back!?!?  I know we shouldnt want to wear them... but they take me back to my good ol days-BC-before church.  When my hubby describes our meeting one another (at USU) it always includes a description of my white short shorts. Silly me.  Naughty me. Silly hubby.

P.S.S.- I love Sara Bareilles!!  I guess I shouldnt be surprised that I havent heard of any of the other artists you mentioned. Im old, remember?  Do I dare admit to you that I like country music? Did you know that about me? I love a good story set to music.

How about this random fact...I had a goal...I wrote about it on my blog.  I wanted to learn how to ride my bike without hands.  Guess what!!!??  I can do it now!!  Im pretty proud of myself.  Its a simple pleasure.  Hopefully it empowers me to conquer the waves and to learn to surf!!

(Now I see why it takes so long to get to Provo!!! we are creeping,,,really creeeeeping through the Salt Lake valley, and making lots of stops.)
You had no idea you'd be receiving a travel log from me did you?

The Salt Lake mountains sure are beautiful. No one could dispute that.

There are some other wild things I'd like to do while in California:
-get a tattoo
-ride a bike to Mexico
-spend lots of money...but it takes money to spend money
-see a shark
-see dolphins

As soon the train rounded the point of the mountain and entered Utah Valley, the clouds began to do their 10 Commandment thing over the mountains. And it began to drizzle.  I didnt write my friend about what I could see through my train window because I was too enthralled by what I was witnessing.  When the train pulled into the Provo station and I disembarked - there was a magical double rainbow framing the tall peaks right in front of me.
I took it as a sign.
...as an omen.
This trip to California was going to be all that I hoped it to be. I had an even greater sense of anticipation than before.

I also didnt write to my friend about finding the perfect Pho restaurant with my boys and their women! I didnt tell her how happy I was to share the hugest most delicious bowl of deliciousness with Jenna!! (did I say delicious enough!?!?!)  And about how it felt to spend time with my grown up children.
It was such a lovely evening.
I also must  mention that my Good Builder sent me off on this adventure with his blessing.  With nary a whispered breath of complaint.  He did nothing or said nothing to make me feel guilty for going. (There must have been a 'look' in my eyes....???)

Stay tuned for Day Two of my  California adventure. An adventure that had nothing to do with amusement parks, but had everything to do with rest, relaxation and recharging and the sea.

Peace friends

A Letter to a Friend

Its true that I do not speak as well as

I can think.  But that is true of most people,

as nearly as I can tell.

from: The Poisonwood Bible

by: Barbara Kingsolver

Lets be pen-pals!!
It'll be fun!!
May the thrill of getting real mail in our mailboxes never, ever, fade.

All is well here. With the exception of a sinking feeling in my heart when finding a tree on todays' excursion, whose leaves are already changing color.  Ugh!! How can this be!?!?  Its still August!!  I don't want to start hating Logan so soon.  8 months of cold weather just isnt right. Not on any level.

I live in the hope that this will be our LAST winter here.  I've pretty much laid down the law in fact.  I dont want to do 2 more winters here.  I also aspire and dream of finding a used hot tub to put out back...to help the winter seem not so bitter a pill to swallow.  We're  hunting the pages of Craigslist and KSL.com. Wish us luck!! And that it wont break the bank.

Please dont concern yourself  about finding me a purse that matches my style.  (do I have a style?) Im a fickle soul...my 'style' is always changing.  Right now Im loving the  big bag...that smells divinely of real leather...that you so generously gifted to me.  It holds my notebook, and several novels and my huge wallet! I am happy!!  Plus it reminds me of you!!

I will be sure to tell Rob of your kind offer to use your beautiful pool. He just might take you up on it!!  I know he misses our pool...as do I.

It was lovely to get some news about Bloomington 5th ward! Thank you!! Its hard to believe that Garrett has already returned from his mission. I saw a picture of he and his brothers on facebook.  He does look terrific. Angie and David  must be thrilled to have him back.  Its a long 2 years!!

Im not surprised to hear about the Clarkes moving.  In fact, Im surprised it didnt happen sooner.  I wish it was me that could have knocked her door and offered to buy her home. I loved how unique it is.  A Frank Lloyd Wright style.  It reminded me of my neighborhood that I grew up in in Maryland.
Wouldnt it be fun to move into a condo in downtown Salt Lake?  Or better yet...how about downtown New York City.
Oops...Im showing my fickleness once again.
Down town N.Y. in a condo...
Or Ivins, Utah, at the foot of those red rocks.
How about this...
New York City for a year.
Ivins for the rest of my life, with a dash of Cancun and Lake Powell whenever I want.
This would be perfection.
Anyway..Im happy for the Clarkes.  They'll be happy up North.

So are you reading anything interesting?
Im enjoying

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Its the first book I've read in many months.  Yep...thats right...I said months.

Im planning a get away!!
I must!!
I thought my burger joint...where I work...was going to fold.  That possibility caused my mind to churn.
So I called Jude. My perfect co-conspirator.
It so happens that I have dear family that live in So. Cally.
It seems the stars are aligning.
It now looks as though our plans are really going to come together. Very soon I will be  spending a handful of days at the beach!!!!
My heart and soul can be replenished there.
And my dear Builder didnt even bat an eye at my request. I must have that look in my eye.  He knows I need this, especially before the snow flies...this California girl in me needs to have some sand between her toes and salt air brushing against her skin.  Im hoping to hit the road in a couple of weeks.  Even taking the time off at work has been easy. It must be that Im meant to go...FINALLY!!

I love you dear friend.  Time spent with you is always precious to me. I do hope it happens again soon!
Good luck in selling your home...if this is what you really desire.
And yes...our motto will be...keeping fighting the fight!!!
 Cant wait to hear from you ...my new pen-pal!!  Im giddy with excitement!

Love,
me

Sunday Ramblings

You should know now that a man of knowledge lives by acting,

not by thinking about acting, nor by thinking about what he

will think when he has finished acting. A man of

knowledge chooses a path with heart and follows it.

from: The E Myth

quoting- A Separate Reality by Carlos Castaneda

D is for: Dearest Darling Grandchildren,

I've been told in a blessing that one of the things I should accomplish in this life is to leave a convincing witness of what I believe and pass it on to my family...my children's children to be more persice.  This was/is my main objective for blogging....that some day these amazing kids, which I adore and which have a small amount of my DNA swimming in their veins, will know what silly Mimi knows. 
I now plan to write them letters.  And see how it goes.  
They are so young, and Im kinda old.
I may have a lot to say, or maybe not...but at least I'll give it a shot...cause I LOVE them so!!!

So here it goes:

D is for Dearest Darling Grandchildren,
You dont know something about me...at least not yet.  But I abhor public speaking. Mimi gets ill at even the thought of standing before people to say something.  I would much rather write!!
I come from a long line of maternal writers.  My mother, your great-grandmother, and her mother before her all wrote letters to their loved ones.  My goal here is to improve upon the constructiveness of our letter writing. I pray that I can be successful in this endeavor.
 Letters are supposed to edify, teach, uplift, encourage, inform, and express gratitude. And how about that.....Grandma's are supposed to do the same things!!! Plus adding a bit of spoiling too!!!

This week I have been thinking about apostles and prophets.
When people ask me what makes Mormonism unique among Christian churches, this is what I tell them--
We have a prophet!!  We have 12 apostles!!  Just like Jesus had when He was here on the earth setting up His church.  Jesus and Heavenly Father came back, because God is an unchanging God, and They taught Joseph Smith how to set up His church once again.  They gave Joseph the authority, the priesthood authority, to do so.
This week I am grateful for the apostle Russel M.  Nelson- because he spoke so lovingly and directly to us about how to find happiness here on earth.
My sweet babies...may you grow to love and appreciate that we have these men, called of God, to lead and guide and teach us in this day and age.  May you listen to  their modern day revelation, and may the Spirit of Truth whisper to you that these men are true messengers of God.  May you learn for yourself that the heavens are open and that a loving,  all knowing, caring  Heavenly Father is there to listen and to help us if we but ask and listen.
Mimi is rather simple minded sometimes...most of the time, but I have had witnesses of the Spirit that these things Im telling you are true.
By the way...I think you can have favorite Apostles.  I dont think that its wrong or a bad thing...just like we all have favorite teachers, friends and toys.
This week I gained a real appreciation for for the heart surgeon turned apostle. I also have a soft spot in my heart for the silver haired pilot who is a master at telling us modern day parables.   I miss our prophet, Gordon B. Hinkley, but I have now learned to love and appreciate our prophet that stands at the head of our church now. Thomas S. Monson.  I think there may be no one more selfless than he.  We have lawyers, doctors, businessmen, entupenures, all who have laid down their nets and have given up much to become fishers of men!! There are so many men, and women- women who serve in high profile positions in the church--who all sacrifice much to become full time emissaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
As you dear little ones grow up, you will also have 'favorites' that you look forward to hearing at Conferences or reading in publications.  And just like your favorite blankets, lambies, toys, movies and comfort foods, our apostles come in all manner of sizes, hair quality, speaking abilities, nationalities and back  grounds, which of course then lends to different presentations of Gospel principals.  Thats what I find so engaging!!
So remember my loves- Jesus called apostles and prophets when He was here...why would He cease to do so now? When we need them the most?!
This is a short blurb from my new  favorite apostle  Next time a different apostle will say something that'll go straight to my heart...and then he'll be my new favorite!!
I love you more than life my loves,
Mimi

artwork by Lachlan.."its me hugging you, Mimi."

..

A Letter From the MTC

Sacrifice is part of life. Its supposed
to be. Its not something to regret. Its
something to aspire to.
from: Five People You Meet In Heaven
by: Mitch Albom 2004

Me and Elder Aoki, he helped me with my spanish

from left: My companion Elder Mendenhall, my zone leader Elder Pond, Me, and Elder Funk (my other zone leader)

Dearest Cindy,
Thanks for the letter Cindy. I miss you guys like crazy. Im just glad I got to stay with the Stephensons for as long as I did. The Stephensons are awesome! And thanks again for putting up with me and all my drama. You're a Christ-like woman Cindy. So are Bob and Brian. Except they're men....
Man. Life with a companion!!! Where do I start. I thought I was a patient guy before the mish, but I've realized Im not. I've heard a mission is a prep for marriage and now I can see why. Don't get me wrong. I love my companion, but when you're around somebody 24/7 you start to get annoyed with the little things they do!
Before in my life if I was upset at somebody I would got be by myself to blow off steam, but now I cant do that. Im sorry to say that I relish my trips to al bano (the bathroom) now. Another thing is my comp is WAY better at spanish than me. And when Im upset I dont hide it too well. It show on my face. So my companion always asks me "Tiene una problema?" (do you have a problem?) to which I reply "No, of course not." Sometimes through clenched teeth though. :) Dont worry though. Life with a companion is great. It just takes getting used to.
Spanish is coming along good. Our district has promised to try and speak solamente en espanol (only spanish) So thats helped out a lot. Like I said though my companion is way good at Spanish so he helps me out a lot. He's always pushing me and helping me with words.
What do I like the most...Definitely P-day. I know that sounds bad, but we get to go to the temple on P-day. I love going to the temple. And I love getting letters! I love getting letters from you Cindy. And one day my sister sent me 5 pkgs of bottled water, snacks, etc. Elders were gawking at me as I walked to my room. That was a fun day. I told them the packages were from my girlfriend. (jk)
The hardest thing about the MTC....I would say is just trying to stay afloat. They keep your schedule pretty packed here. Which is good, but its a lot sometimes. When my head hits the pillow at the end of the day Im out like a light.
Its kinda funny Cindy but I have met some people I know here, but from grade school! I went to school in Hurricane and I've met 2 friends here. One of them, Gary Bracken. I talked to him for a while and he filled me in on everybody I went to school with. Some of them had gotten into trouble and didnt make it on a mission. That made me sad and grateful I was home-schooled.
OK This is weird, but because I was home-schooled Cindy Im NOT used to being around so many guys my age!! One elder slapped me on the behind the other day and I just stood there in shock. Haha
In conclusion, the mission is great, but there's lots of adjusting along the way.
With much love and admiration,
Justus (Elder Seeley)


Many, many people ask after Justus. They wonder how he's doing and how he adjusting to life in the MTC. This letter that came yesterday is a perfect view into the mind of Justus!! Now we know just how he feels about everything that goes on in the MTC!!
Bless Justus for his sense of humor and his dedication!!

If you'd like to write to him, and get yourself an awesome letter in return....
here's his MTC address:

Elder Justus Seeley
MTC Mailbox #224
CHI-CONS 0517
2005 N 900 E
Provo, Utah 84604-1793