What Life Brings-2009

It's been over a month since I last posted anything. The house is quiet with sleeping kids and hubby is gone, so I will attempt to put some thoughts into words. If I could describe the last 2 weeks in one word it would be...emotions! Christmas and New Years were absolutely wonderful, chaotic, soothing, and full of fun. (Below I will post pictures and details.)

Since we have been home my emotions have gone from excited, happy, sad and everything in-between. We arrived home from AZ on a Friday night. The next day we got a call and on Sunday Sean was called to be in the bishopric. A couple of days later my wonderful Grandma Frances passed away. I then got sick and was just feeling yuck trying to make arrangements to leave. I flew to Cambria, CA and had an amazing time with siblings and relatives. Lastly, my birthday is in a couple of days and I'm just not too excited to be another year older.

Through all of the "emotions" I'm thankful for a wonderful, supportive husband and loving kids. I can't wait to see what 2009 brings!

Grandma Frances and Cambria, CA

I wish I had a picture on my computer to post of this beautiful woman I was able to call "Grandma". She lived 89 wonderful years and I'm so grateful for her life and my awesome dad that she raised.

At her graveside service the history of her life was read. She did remarkable things and raised 4 great kids. She was even a Clairol model! I'm so happy she is with Grandpa and Bill now and I know she's happy.

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The house in Cambria, CA used to be my grandparent's cabin until they retired. I can still say that it is one of my favorite places to be on this earth. You have the mountains and pine trees and the beach is right there too. It is gorgeous.














All 5 of us siblings flew out. No spouses or kids were able to come. Although this was unfortunate I must say that is was an amazing experience for all of us to be together. We laughed and laughed and had such a great time. It was like we were all growing up together again (but we are mature and get along). I love my brothers and sister...they each are unique and talented in their own ways. They are examples to me and I love being with each one of them.

My parents (and Greg) were there and they added the cherries on top. My dad gave a perfect talk on the Plan of Salvation. Carol welcomed us with open arms. Gary, Mary and their 3 kids came and Janet and her kids with spouses also came. They are crazy and I love it. I haven't seen some of these cousins in years. I have so many fond memories of being with them, so it felt like I was coming "home" in a different sort of way. This trip couldn't have been any better. (We even fit in Hearst Castle).

















When I came home and told Sean all about it I had tears in my eyes. He was confused. He wasn't sure if I was happy or sad and I didn't know either. I was sad to see Grandma go, but I'm happy she's in a better place. I was also happy to be with great family members. What a joyous trip.

Lunch with Friends

OK...I think I have some of the longest and best friends ever! I am so blessed! On two different days I was able to meet with all of my great friends in AZ. I have been friends with almost all of these ladies since elementary school. How many years is that??? There is such a history there that can never be replaced. I loved every minute of it...Thank you BFFs :)

Christmas in AZ

All I can say is WOW about Christmas. Everyone was home (except James and Katharine...we missed you). At times we had 12 kids and 10 adults staying at my parent's house. I could not enjoy anything more than being with family and watching cousins play together. My kids loved it. I loved meeting the newest nephew...Lane and the nights staying up with the adults playing games, talking, laughing and even playing the Wii.
Mary and Joseph
Shepherd
3 Angels
Wise Man
















My parents are amazing. They are wonderful hosts and do so much for us. (Even when my mom was sick she was still serving). On Christmas Eve my parents gave each adult and child matching pjs. The grandchildren had their "number" on the back of their shirt (the order in which they were born) with a bear that also had matching pjs and the same number on the back of it's shirt. It was amazing! After our program we all changed and took pictures. It was so fun!
Matching Pjs
















We had days of fun and enjoyed bringing in the New Year with pots and pans. (Jeff I'll never forget you playing Moods that night...what was the word?...sleazy?):) It was sad to say goodbye, but we're looking forward to July.
Christmas Morning