November from Grammie

Dear Family

This is a new experience for me. I have never blogged before. I had a very good Thanksgiving day with Phyllis and her family and then a good Friday with Bonnie and her family.

The nights have not been the best however. I seem to have some health challenges at night. I received a wonderful blessing the other night from Heavenly Father with David as voice. It told me that Heavenly Father was pleased with my life and that I would receive the blessings promised in the ordinances of the temple. I was also promised that angels including family would attend me in preparation for eternity. I have great faith and although so much about the future is unknown I know that there is a life after this life and I look forward to being with Pappy again as well as my parents and his parents.

I really like getting letters and phone calls and hope you will have time during the holidays to say hello. Pictures are great also. hint hint.

I will spend some of my time now at Bonnie's and Daves so if you call and I don't answer call their home or cell phones.

I have so much to be thankful for. I really love all my family and am so proud of each one of you.

I have a strong testimony of the gospel. I know the church is true and if we keep the commandments and do what is right we will be blessed. I hope you know how much I love the temple. I love to go as often as I can and am a little frustrated that my health makes it more difficult to attend right now. I feel as I enter the temples that entering heaven must be just like I feel in the temple. The Spirit is so strong and I feel Heavenly Father's love for me and for each member of my family. I so want each of you to make the temple important in your lives.

Love

Grammie

Brazilian Friends

Our friends from Brazil, Danielle and Alcenir Sousa came to visit us a couple of weeks ago. Danielle we knew most of the time we were in Manaus. She was from Boa Vista and spoke English well enough that she did a lot of the translating for the general authorities who visited in the area. Alcenir was from Manaus, but moved to Boa Vista when they got married. He graduated from law school down there last year and is a counselor in the Mission Presidency in the Manaus mission. President Itinoisi and President Jayme have both worked hard to turn Boa Vista into a Stake. The Sousas came for Sunday dinner and it was fun to hear about all that is happening with our friends in Brazil. Dad said after a night of talking Portuguese his mouth was sore from using new or at least unused muscles. Mom was their tour guide for a tour of the historic sites in St. George. They will stop in Disney World in Florida on their way home.

Mom and Dad November

A couple of weeks ago we were excited because Kimberly and Micah came down to visit us. The excuse was for Ashlan's birthday because Kimberly had promised to make a cake. However, Micah was able to get some time off and came down also. We had not had them home for a long time so it was fun to see them.

That Friday night while we waited for them to come we went to a date dance at the Institute. They had a dinner, a movie and a dance. We had this picture taken with one of the movie stars that was present and because it reminded us of Pappy.

Happy Thanksgiving

Hard to believe that tomorrow is December already. We had a good Thanksgiving holiday and now look forward to the sights, sounds and memories of the Christmas season.

Marci and Brian and family came down for the holidays. Kimberly also was able to come down and with Bethany and Dan and family, and Stephen, and Grammie and Grandma here in St. George we were able to have fun, food, and family.

We had a nice meal together on Thursday with plenty to be thankful for. That night the ladies went to the showing of Twilight. They came home with glowing reports. Friday night the men went to the Dark Knight at the Dollar theater. It was an adventure and particularly because after seeing two stars or planets aligned in the heavens as a sign even Dad participated in this adventure. He only had to close his eyes two or three times and was glad to see that at least a subplot was that most people are genuinely good and only need a hero to lead them to do that which is right.

Marci and Brian and family went back Saturday out of concern for Grammie and the fact that Jessica woke up with a fever. She just didn't feel well and let Marci know that she wanted to go home and get her baby (doll). Marci called after they got home and said as soon as Jessica got her doll she came over to Marci and said, "Go back to Grammas".

One of the subplots of the Thanksgiving holiday has been Grammie's health. She has had the night pains in her left arm and chest again. The doctors thought that with putting the "stint" in her blocked artery that would end, but it has returned. Mom spent one night sleeping at Grammie's and Kimberly slept there another night. The night Kimberly stayed over she called at 5:00 am and we rushed up to find out that Grammie had two episodes of pain that night. One occured at 1:00 am and the other at 4:00 am so she didn't get much sleep. Dad was able to give her a blessing which seemed to help and gave her comfort and peace. So Saturday night she slept here at our house. Kimberly helped Dad move one of Grammie's chairs over so she could use it in her room here. She had another episode last night and had to take some of the nitro clycerin pills. Mom slept in Grammie's room most of the night.

Today Grammie seems to feel better and went to her ward's sacrament meeting with Kimberly. She also signed up for tithing settlement next week.

Grandma is also wearing a sling on her right arm. It has been sore and swollen and they had to drain some liquid off of it this week. She is supposed to keep it in this sling and not use it for two weeks so they can see what is wrong.

November News from Loren and Family

Howdy Y'all,

Come on over, we still have Thanksgiving leftovers. We can always add more water to the soup.
It is actually nice to sit and type this blog. As a Sunday evening Quarterback, I was foolish to play in the Turkey Bowl a couple days ago. My body is still aching and sore. The kids aren't too sympathetic, I am just referred to as the "old man". It was actually fun to play though, it was well worth the soreness and pain.

We had a good Thanksgiving week. We decided to drive into the Sierra foothills and enjoy "Apple Hill". Apple Hill sounds more like a sitcom but it is actually a haven for crafts and ideally suited for the Relief Society. They also have little shops selling apple confections along with chocolate. We actually tried apple doughnuts and they were quite delicious. If time permitting, we might trek back up there to get our Christmas Tree.

Tyler will be ordained a Deacon next Sunday. He will be interviewed by the Bishop tonight. I really do look forward to this event. Tyler has grown up to a fine young man. He also had his Scouts Board of Review and will have earned his two first Scout badges and has 20% remaining to earn his First Class. He knows that he cannot drive until he has earned/become an Eagle Scout. :)

Ashley and Jordan wrapped up their Soccer Season. You would think the shuttling to practices and games would end but this more of a psychological event since they still both have games this upcoming weekend. Jordan is playing with his old team in an indoor soccer league for the next six weeks. He is looking forward to it. Ashley will be in the District Cup and is also looking forward to it.

Katelyn has finally come around and warming up to the idea of playing organized sports. She was been a tough cookie and strongly opposed it. She finally has decided to play soccer this next year.

Kim is in an anti-climatic (or denouement) phase after all of the Twilight-ing that she has done this past month. She is eagerly awaiting the next book sequel. She told me that technically I was a werewolf, so I have been shaving more lately.

That's all folks...

Happy Birthday!

Dec 3 - Tyler S
Dec 15 - Alex H
Dec 22 - Loren S
Dec 27 - Terrika N

Quote from President Faust

I was reading an article tonight from President Faust and thought it was a great to share a couple of quotes from it. It comes from a July 2005 Ensign article entitled "He Healeth the Broken in Heart":

1. "In today’s overloaded society, some of the healing agents that our parents enjoyed seem not to be at work in our lives. Fewer and fewer are able to relieve stress by working with their hands and by tilling the soil. The increasing demands, the diversity of voices, the entreating sales pitches, the piercing noises, the entanglement of many personal relationships can rob our souls of the peace they need to function and survive. Our hurry to meet the relentless demands of the clock tears away at our inner peace. The pressures to compete and survive are great. Our appetite for personal possessions seems enormous. The increasing forces that destroy the individual and family bring great sadness and heartbreak.

One reason for the spiritual sickness of our society is that so many do not know or care about what is morally right and wrong. So many things are justified on the basis of expediency and the acquiring of money and goods. In recent times, those few individuals and institutions that have been courageous enough to stand up and speak out against adultery, dishonesty, violence, and other forms of evil are often held up to ridicule. Many things are just plain and simply wrong, whether they are illegal or not. Those who persist in following after the evil things of the world cannot know “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding.”

Somehow, some way, we must find the healing influence that brings solace to the soul. Where is this balm? Where is the compensating relief so desperately needed to help us survive the world’s pressures? The offsetting comfort in large measure can come through increased communion with the Spirit of God. This can bring spiritual healing....."

2. "....I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase, mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to that counsel. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope and charity—the pure love of Christ—will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and happiness.”

Happy Birthday!!

Nov 8 - Jaxon G
Nov 14 - Ashlan T
Nov 17 - Grandma
Nov 17 - James G
Nov 22 - Korinne C

October News from Grandma

Hello all

October is almost over and I can't believe it. Wade and Stasy's wedding was Oct 4th and was a lovely affair as they had planned for a solid year. Of course, it wasn't it the temple which makes me sad. Her uncle, a Presbyterian Minister out of Denver performed the ceremony and for a civil ceremony was nice although we all had a hard time keeping up with the prayers. I was so glad Julie and Bonnie were willing to go and drive and that made a wonderful trip. Bonnie stayed with Kirsti and Julie and I had a lovely hotel room with Trish's folks and Roger and Trisha in the same hotel. Kirsti, Topher and the girls came and they had a dance and the kids really had a ball dancing. It was fun to see them having such a good time. Bonnie was right in the middle of it all as was Kirsti and sometimes Topher and Sarah. I was so glad to see all of Roger and Trisha's family and Stasy's family was very friendly and very nice.

Derek and Shelley had a baby boy on Sept 26th and named him Gavin Ryan and he is a darling and Derek is walking on air and so is the mother. They have just moved into a new home and love it.

My Aunt Minnie died on the 26th; she was 95 and a very special lady in my life. She was the wife of my Uncle Ray, Mom's brother. I went home with them when I was in the 7th grade; ;my very first trip to Salt Lake 72 miles away. Can you believe that? Some change from the travel families do today. One of my favorite memories is going to the STate Fair with Aunt Minnie and Uncle Ray and Lin and Aunt Minnie going on the double ferris wheel and Uncle Ray and I staying on the ground laughing at the screaming going on as they came around each time. I hope their son Mack sends me a copy of the Eulogy he is giving.

Deryl and Shanna came last weekend for his 40th High School Reunion and had a great time; he was the MC for the afternoon program on Saturday and people have told me he did a great job. It is just his alley and he enjoyed the limelight.

Hello and Happy Birthday to all that celebrated this month and there are a lot more coming up in November. I am planning to go to St. George Nov 10th and stay until the end of the year. It will be wonderful to go to the temple and visit with family and friends there.

I love each of you very much and wish you peace, happiness and Joy in the Journey.

My love Grandma

October News from Kirsti and Fam

Dear family,

We had so much fun with Bethany and her family. The kids are already wondering when they are coming back. Thanks for coming guys.

Soccer season is over now. The girls did great and enjoyed it. Sarah is actually very glad it is over and hopes not to have to play spring season. We are getting ready for Halloween and are glad the girls do not have school that day. Terrika wants to be a vampire,Cassidy wants to be mother nature and Sarah wants to be Little Red Riding Hood. It will be a fun day.

We are looking forward to the holiday season but it is coming faster that we are ready for.

We love you and hope you are all well and happy.

Love,

Kirsti, Topher, Terrika, Cassidy and Sarah

October News from Kimberly

Hello all,

November is finally here and the signs of Fall are all around... especially on my front lawn! ; ) October was a good month. My roommate got rid of her dogs (Yea!!!!) and so now we have a back yard again. I've just been busy trying to get everything ready for the coming winter and Christmas presents. I'm going to have to get cracking to get all I need done by then. Not much else to report for the month. I hope you all had great Halloweens and the kids enjoyed their night of tricks and treats! I love you all!

Take care, Love,Kim

October News From Bethany and Fam

Ok, so October has gone by so quickly! I can't believe it is now time for Thanksgiving and ... Christmas!! Well, we had a great and SCARY month! We got the opportunity to fly to see Kirsti and fam. We made it there without a mishap, except my panicking on the takeoff and Dan had to yell at the flight attendant to get us some water before I passed out into oblivion! My poor husband. He married such a paranoid woman! Luckily, I married a very kind man! He is good to me and even though the flight attendant glared at him and told him she wasn't supposed to give us the water... he smiled and helped me through it all. We had a blast and Kirsti and Topher were great hosts! We were envious of there quiet lifestyle in the boondocks. It was a great place to find peace and quiet!

Marci and Brian came down this month and we got to play and visit some haunted houses. Mom, Marci and I took the kids through a terrifying 30 second haunted house. We had a great time and a lot of laughs. Adam and Hilary came for Halloween and it was so much fun to spend it with them. We took the kids trick or treating and then hit a wild trunk or treat after visiting Grammie in the hospital. She was all smiles after her surgery and it was fun to see her. We headed to Gramma's after and were treated to movies, taco soup and games. We left our babysitter with all 7 kids plus one of McKaid's friends and hit the town Saturday. They are all party animals. We came home to find Stephen had joined our babysitter out of the goodness of his heart to help with the kids. It had nothing to do with the fact that she is cute! What a good guy!

My kids love to see all of there cousins and Kaly is in tears every time they leave. We should have named her Drama. She's been crying for Sarah, McKensie and Jenna. She feels so deprived when they leave. Time goes too fast.

Dan hit the wild hunt this month with McKaid and they became true mountain men. They didn't bring home a deer, but have a ton of stories to tell.

All in all.... It was a wonderful month with lot's of memories.

We hope you all had a SCARY Halloween!

Love, The Tobiasson's

Last Stand for Proposition 8

I was not sure if the invite to this blog (You have been invited to contribute to The Corner's blog) was spam or legitimate email. I guess "The Corner" threw me off, I was not sure which corner it was referring to (i.e. Four Corners, 2nd W 5th South, Pahvant, Mel's Market at the Corner).
I like this format better already, I do not feel guilty for delaying the monthly family newsletter, unless it is something separate still. Is it? Tell me it is not so.

October was great and we are thankful we have a large Maple Tree in our backyard. It has dumped, dumped and dumped tons of leaves and the tree still has leaves. Hopefully, it will be gone next year and it will be firewood instead.

Halloween was fun...it was on a Friday this year and that can explain why we have several garbage bags of candy. We will be environmental conscious and recycle them and hopefully we will have enough remaining that we can use for the Reunion this summer. J/K . For more information please view the Halloween posting on our Blog (link to the right of this blog).

If you have not heard, Proposition 8 is the biggest issue in this year's California election. We are in favor of the proposition and it has been greatly encouraged by the Brethren. We had Stake Confernce and Elder Whiting spoke in regards to it. I also had some in depth "water cooler" discussion with co-workers at work, with a majority against the proposition. I really have not had any hot debates with any yet, but I have stated my position numerous times. For the most part it has been positive.
Church members here have been the largest contributors and with the most volunteers. Tonight, I took the kids to a Prop 8 rally at a major instersection. The kids were really excited, Katelyn even made here own sign (very cute) and we all took turns holding three signs for over an hour through the steady downpour. A majority of the people did honk in support, but we had several people yelling, cussing and indicating their IQ to us. It was fun.

I hope the kids can remember this event tonight and it can embolden them to stand for what is right throughout their lives. I am sure this won't be the last.

Ashley did a similar event earlier last week, see if you can spot her. You can view it on YouTube.

Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tZSaRh1PjM

Love, the Smithfamily

In The Beginning

Dad and I discussed converting the newsletter to a blog so that pictures, comments, communications, jokes, family gossip :>, etc. can be posted throughout the month.

Feel free to post as often as you would like with a minimum of 1 post for month.

This is a great way to share pictures so that we can all share in seeing everyone grow up.

If you want to create your own family blog and use it as a journal, we can also link to your blog for updates.

If anyone needs a blogging tutorial, Hilary and I can help educate. We charge an initial set up fee of $75 and then $20 per 15 minutes. Just Kidding. We will help you for free. Just call us.

Let's get blogging.