NUMBER TWO SON....BRUCE...HAPPY BIRTHDAY

BACK ROW:  BRUCE, JACKIE AND CHAYLA

FRONT ROW: CHERISE, MARQUEL AND MAREN

He came early to this earth...just four days early.  He was due on my grandfather Daniel Joseph's  83rd birthday.  I always knew that Bruce was going to have the middle name of Daniel...not only after my grandfather, but my father and my brother.  Bruce wamted to carry on the tradition so he named his first daughter Cherise Danielle.  Cherise one day will carry on the name to her prosterity.

To know Bruce is to love him.   He is witty, a tease and has a very compassionate heart.  He loves life..which includes five women for him to care for.  Not a dull moment at his home.  There is always laughter, the giggling and the sounds of hair dryers, etc.  He is the perfect man to have been blessed with four girls.  He also was blessed with a terrific wife...Jackie.   They make a good team.  They recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.

Bruce was always a happy baby...people called him Smiley.  Despite some allergy problems of his body he never complained.  He never asked "why me?".  He just took it in stride.  We were concerned about him going on a mission as his allergies were not fun.  But he never hesitated..but went.  The first time in 19 years he was free of any allergies.  His whole mission was fantastic.  When he came back home after his mission was over, he started in with his allergies again, but not quite as bad as his first 19 years of life. 

What amazes me about Bruce is his uncanny ability to keep on going no matter what may come his way.  He is one of the most faithful, non-complaining people I have ever known when it comes to health issues.  I marvel on his ability to lift other people and make them feel better.

Bruce is a teddy bear.  He has a tender heart and is very compassionate.  I am so blessed to have him for my son.   I remember when he was young that he would come into the house crying.  I would ask him what was wrong and he would say: "I hit (named one of his 4 brothers)".  He felt badly about what he had done.  The one who received the hit never came to the house...just Bruce.  He knew he was wrong...but he also knew he had hurt someone he loved.  

Bruce is an excellent cook...he cooks a great turkey or beef or anything yummy, and he also is a master gardener.  He outshines me, so I reap the blessings of his hard work. I am proud of my son who can make anything grow.  Bruce loves to tease...always has and always will.  He gets this smirk on his face...he never could keep a straight face...so he never can get away with anything.  You would like my teddy bear son.  Very loving, very kind...hasn't changed a bit from the day he came to live with us so long ago.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU BRUCE....ONE OF THE GREATEST SONS EVER!!!!

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

     HE CAME...HE CONQUERED....HE GAVE...HE LIVES!

Am I ready for the day we celebrate with family, friends, having food, games, laughter and best of all love?  NO ! 
I am thinking:  I have this to do and that to do and I can feel the stress, the knot in the stomach, the anxiety...the ....oh, something is wrong with this picture.   This needs to be a time of joy...not stress.  This needs to be a time of relaxing and watching the snow fall and the Christmas music playing in the background and nothing but a huge smile of contentment on my face.  Then something sweet happens.  Forget the last minute shoppers and the crowds and the hustle and bustle.  Forget about not having Christmas cards sent out or the candy made or the presents wrapped.  So much focus is on us but not HIM  !!!!!

If you are like me, then I hope you will take a deep breath, read the following words that I found today in a message from my daughter Kelly and now you may too relax, smile and get ready for the real meaning of CHRISTmas.

" The greatest man in history, is named Jesus Christ.  He had no servants, yet He is called Master.   He had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.   He had no medicines, and they called Him Healer.  He commanded no army, but the kings feared Him.  He won not a single military battle, and He conquered the world.  He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.  He was buried in a tomb, but He lives today."

Remember always that He is the reason for the season and as my cousin Paule said, "Jesus is the reason for......EVERYTHING!!!" How right she is.   It is not Santa Claus or Frosty the Snowman, but is a man who is our Brother, our Savior, our Redeemer.   May you and I hold in our hearts these thoughts...I think we will feel more peace, more contentment, more happiness as we get ready for the day our world celebrates His birth...His mission....His love. 

I am thankful for the babe who laid in the manger, who came to earth through a miraculous way , who listened to His Father in heaven and thus continued His journey upon the earth...who showed us the path to travel and then He said, "it is finished" and He ...that precious babe who became the Savior of the World...gave HIS gift to us.  May we do likewise in OUR gifts to Him and in turn be helping all of God's children. He taught us to love one another as He loved us.   

With much love to you my friends and my family,
Mom/Mimi/Deanna

MR AND MRS BRAD HIRZ 

Ned and Deanna Hirz would like to announce the marriage of their son

Bradley Alan Hirz

to

Ronda Jean Brown Chamberlain

daughter of Wayne and LaReva Brown

The happy couple were married on November 30, 2010

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOU AND YOU AND....

No pictures.  No graphics.  Just a few words.  I love this holiday...a large percentage of Americans focus on a day of eating, of being with family and friends, of giving thanks.  It is a time of reflection......

May I?

I feel like a royal queen as I look over my kingdom...I see a family that I adore.

I see happy grandchildren who are each other's best friends.

I see hands of those grandchildren as they pull my weeds, mop my floors, dust or rub my weary shoulders.

I see the beauty of the area I live in...finally.  I missed my mountains and trees...but now I "see'' the sunsets, the blue, blue sky...the myriad of different kinds of wildlife, birds, formations of huge clouds, smell of freshly plowed rich soil.  I see the doves perched in my large maple tree...I see, feel and smell pure air and at night see a zillion plus stars.  What beauty surrounds us.

I see robust, healthy sons and grandsons tackling the hard job of farming and still walk along their dad's side to talk, to support, to lift and encourage.

I see a daughter and my "new" daughters (son's wives) as they constantly treat me to parties, games, girl talk, fresh bread/rolls, yummy desserts and casseroles, cookies and of course helping me with my home and yard

I see a church full of people who are loving, kind, caring and are such an example of goodness.

I see my happily married children in the prime of their lives. I see them teaching their children those same principles that I tried to teach.

I see my beautiful grandchildren excel in not only in their studies, sports, drill team, etc., but I see the fine young men and young women that they have grown to be. They are my reason for hanging on a little longer.  I don't want to miss the graduations, the weddings, the babies, the cycle of life.

I don't need diamonds on my hands.  I don't need a house with chandeliers, sweeping staircases, or a closet full of hundreds of pieces of clothing. I am a wealthy woman...I have YOU.  That is all I need...YOU.  I have it all.  

I have life.   I have truth.  I have a great country to live in.  I have a roof over my head, a place of refuge and peace.   I have love for YOU...always remember that.   I am most thankful... my cup runneth over.

ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

AM I AN INSTRUMENT IN HIS HANDS?

Each time I bring this prayer to my thoughts, I remember that I want to LIVE this prayer daily.  Only problem is...I fall way short of fulfilling that desire.  But I have to remember that today is a new day..I must not look back on yesterday.....LIVE the prayer just for today....TODAY is God's way of saying we have a NEW BEGINNING starting TODAY.   May I share with you one of the most profound prayers ever uttered:

Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love.

Where there is injury, pardon.

Where there is doubt, faith.

Where there is despair, hope.

Where there is darkness, light.

Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,

grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console;

to be understood, as to understand;

to be loved, as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive.

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

     ( by Saint Francis of Assisi)

If I can live this way....not hating but loving; when someone has hurt me, forgive them; when I have doubts I must believe and have faith; when I am "down", it is important to keep  on hoping; when all I can see is gloom and darkness, I must bring in the "light" of Christ and of the Gospel; when I feel so sad that I don't know how I can go another step, I must replace it with counting my blessings and feeling the joy.

I must remember that I am here to serve, to help and lift others and to try to understand and give people the benefit of the doubt; that it is important for me to love and reach out to others for then in my giving of myself to others, then I too will be receiving.  I also must always remember to have a forgiving heart...a forgiving nature....if I want to be forgiven.   I do want eternal life.  I need to keep this prayer strong in my soul, my heart, my ways.....this prayer is one of my favorite reminders of who and what I should be and do. 

I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS PRAYER

OH TO BE A DOGGIE!!!

SADIE AT REST...AT PLAY...AT WORK

I often wonder what it would be like to be a dog.  I have been observing Craig and Tina's dog Sadie.  She gets to sleep a lot.   She walks a little.  She LIKES the cats.  She misses her family when they are gone and she cries.  She enjoys the farm.  She misses her best friend Jake (Scott and Mindi's dog).  She is loved.  She knows she has a great life...surrounded by wide-open spaces, fresh air, rabbits and birds, children.  She is very happy.  Why look at that picture!  The rest of the family...us humans...about 32 in number are having a party...but she just gets to lay around....sometimes sneaking a glance with one eye open or raising an ear to hear a little bit and then she is off to dreamland once again.

Oh, her life sounds so wonderful.  She does not have to pay bills, do laundry, run children here and there, cook meals, ironing, mopping, pulling weeds, shopping, wiping noses, clean windows, brush her teeth, canning, fixing leaky faucets......you get the picture.

I wish at times that I had Sadie's life.   Come to think of it I think I do...hmmm, never thought about it until now. Now that my children are on their own I can sleep any time I want...just like Sadie.  I can only walk a little...and wish my legs and feet were healthy so I could walk the beautiful fields and roads out here.

I like cats too!  I miss my family when they are not around.  They are the ones who keep me laughing...keep me in line.  When no one is around...I get lonely and I cry.

I enjoy the beauty of the farm and the crops and it has been a great place for our children and grandchildren.  I too know I am loved. The air out here on the farm is so fresh...I love the gentle breezes and the sounds of my chimes "singing" all day long.  On a clear day I can see the mountains off to the west and even Mt. Rainer.

Wow...I have a great life too...just like Sadie.  Perhaps I need to do as she does...open my eyes and look around more and see the blessings I have and  also open my ears and hear the sounds of nature, of contented, happy children, of farm equipment moving out to the fields to harvest the abundant hay and corn crops.

I don't need to be a doggie to have what Sadie has.  I just need to look around me....it is already in my life.  Another thing too....I know my food tastes better than hers!!!

MIMI'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:  At times we think the grass is greener on the other side of the fence so we want to go there, be there, etc.   When we are there, we look back at where we had been and see that the side of the fence we were FIRST on is now the greenest.  The secret of happiness and peace and contentment in life is "bloom where you are planted"...that is where God placed you.   Happiness comes from within.  When we start comparing our lives with what someone else has, then we lose focus on what really matters, what really lasts and what really counts.  REALLY!!!

ALL IS WELL



It is October.  It is cool.  It is FALL...my favorite time of the year. 
Why do I love Fall?   Fall reminds me of getting into bed at night....comfy, cool sheets, fresh air from the open window, feeling peace and contentment.  I am starting to give rest to my weary body.

Spring brings forth the miracle of new growth...like a resurrection... after the winter months.  

Summer is a busy time with preparing the ground for planting, then comes the watering, the caring and nurturing, the weeding, finally the harvest and enjoying the fruits of one's labors. 

Now the ground needs to be prepared for it's rest...Winter.  All that we enjoyed...the flowers, the fields of wheat, the tomatoes, the fields of corn, the harvest is coming to a close and all must be bedded down in preparation for the sleep of mother nature. 

But before she goes to sleep...she has one last gift and that is Fall.  The colors of yellows, oranges, browns mixed with greens; the crisp fresh air; the leaves on trees showing off their new "dresses" of beauty; the myriad of those colorful "dresses" that FALL to the ground and give us an opportunity to play in the mounds of leaves as though they were toys of delight for us and our children and grandchildren.

Our lives are like the four seasons of the earth...Spring we are born with a new beginning.  Summer we produce and share our bounty of what we have within us. Fall we are making sure that our life is on the right track and that we have "mixed" our lives with the "colors" of caring, loving, giving, offering, devoting our time and our talents.

Then comes our rest...WINTER.....the cycle of life will begin again for us and for mother nature.  ALL IS WELL.

MIMI'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:  I challenge all of you to find something you love in each of the four seasons...aren't we blessed to live in an area where we see the seasons!!   Find the beauty, the joy of each.  Write down why you enjoy the "mother nature" part of Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter... Then write down what each season means to you in a spiritual sense.  You will be surprised as to your feelings of both and how they correlate and give you that sense of "ALL IS WELL." 

A BRAND NEW DAY!!!!

      EVERY NEW DAY IS PRECIOUS

NED AND I

I love the feeling each morning when I wake up.  I lay there a moment and think, 'It is a brand new day.  It has never been lived before.'  I then lay there and smile.  I arise and start the day with hope, fortitude, gratefulness and faith.  My slate is clean...unmarked from any wrong thoughts, deeds, etc.  I have another chance.  Thank you God for each new day.  I won't look back at yesterday...I did my best.  Just today is what matters. I would like to fill it with lifting others, caring for my family, making myself grow.

That night when I go to bed, I thank God for what I learned that day, what good did I do in the world and where do I need to improve.  The next morning I awake and think, "It is a brand new day and ........"

Mimi's Thought for the Day:  Remember the story in the Bible  of how Lot's wife turned back to view what was behind her?  She progressed no more.  We too are like that if we keep looking back at "yesterdays" and dwelling on our faults, our sins, our shame.  Yesterday is done...hopefully we have learned from it.  Today is a wonderful blessing with many opportunities.  It is a brand new day. 

WISE SAYINGS ARE NEVER OUT OF DATE.

Because I have been hearing of different situations going on in our community, I reflected on wise sayings from my grandmother, mother and myself. I passed them on to my children and grandchildren.  There are many, but I just stated very few of them.    When I finish I would like you to comment on some "sayings" that your grandparents, parents and others taught you.  

We have all heard of:
"A stitch in time saves nine!"
"If you did it right the first time you wouldn't be having to do it again."
"If you lie your nose will grow longer."

I heard my mother say those things many times.

My grandmother took a different path:
"Wash your hands till they squeak"
"One for the bird, one for the worm and one for us" (while planting her garden)
"Always give Jesus something back."  (she would take me to her church and she let me put a nickel in the offering plate that was passed.)

Words that I have said to my children:
"We don't say shut-up in our family"
"If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all."
"Your tongue can be a thing of hate or a thing of beauty."
"What would Jesus do?"

And last but not least: "If you start something, you finish it.  You see it through.  You do not quit! "
One of my children may have gone out for a school sports team and found it was not what they expected or started a project and wanted to quit in the middle of it. Or the yearly chore of picking rocks in all our fields.   By seeing things through we learn patience, integrity, people can rely on you, they can count on you, a person learns that there is always a "thick and thin" of things, etc.  Sure glad the Savior did not quit, nor Joseph, or George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abe Lincoln, or my mother.......

Now, how about you...what did you hear from your family members and what are you passing on today?
Leave a comment or email me at hisnhirz@scml.us  

Hugs to you.

Mimi's Thought for the Day:  There is wisdom in these little sayings.  Sometimes we get irritated when we hear  them over and over like: "well, if you did it right the first time, you wouldn't have to redo it."  I learned the hard way...but now I thank my mother for her wisdom.  Those sayings are like family motto's....does your family have one?  Be a fun thing to do in Family Home Evening...creating a family motto.  Have fun.

THE PERFECT JOY OF MARK AND KELLY

KELLY AND MARK

I want to introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Mark & Kelly Hirz. Married this last March. Mark has an angel for a wife. She is fantastic! She is beautiful, talented, excellent homemaker and also a hair stylist and esthetician. This woman is smart! She has energy, drive and sets her goals to the highest. Kelly is the mother of two children...Nikki who is a junior in high school and Casey who is about to graduate from Marine boot camp. We feel like we have known Kelly for always. She fits right into the family. She is the most kind and loving person you would ever meet. She never says anything bad about anyone, she adores Mark (and he her), she is a jewel in every way. They make an excellent "team". Thank you Mark for finding this rare jewel. We have a new daughter and we love her. It is a joy to us to see you so happy. Life is good.

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Live Well ~ Laugh Often ~ Love Much

MAREN: MY "HI" - - BYE" GIRL

Bruce, Jackie, Chayla

Cherise, Marquel and MAREN

MAREN ELISE HIRZ



Makenna, Heidi (her 8th grade grad.) and Maren
(Three of my twelve granddaughters )

Seventeen years ago, a precious third daughter came to live with her parents Bruce and Jackie. From the very beginning Maren was one of those you knew would excel in her every movement of life's journey. I would like to tell you a story about Maren...one that I will remember all my days and then some.

I wish I could remember her age at the time...but I know she was anywhere from 2 months old to 3 months old. So remember that very, very young age as I tell you a story that will give you goosebumps.

Maren was in her family home laying in a infant seat/tote...you know the ones that have a large handle to carry the baby here and there. It gives the baby a good view of things instead of lying on their backs . So this sweet little girl was comfy in her seat which had been placed on the carpeted living room floor. It was just I, her Uncle Don (my daughter Julie's husband) and Maren. Others there were in the kitchen. I looked at this most beautiful baby and she was very exceptionally beautiful. Her eyes locked onto mine. All of a sudden I did not see an infant's eyes, but I saw eyes more mature, more intelligent and all knowing. From her mouth came the word "Hi". My jaw fell open and my son-in-law Don said with his hands raised and fingers spread apart, "I heard it. I heard it. I am a witness." I may add here that Don is not a member of my faith, but he is a Christian nonetheless and I know he in hearing a tiny baby speak surprised him as it did me. I knew Don well and I knew he nor anyone else in my family was a ventriloquist. I marvelled at what I had just experienced. Maren had said the word "Hi" just as plain as you and I would say it.

It was about two weeks to a month later that a similar experience happened with Maren. Again she was in her seat that reclined a little but still she could see and enjoy the sights of life going on around here. I looked at Maren and that is when it happened. Again, she locked her eyes onto me and the eyes changed from a baby's eyes into the eyes of that intelligence, that special spirit that was within her. She looked at me intently and said "Bye". Again, I was floored. Again the word was very distinct. It was not a whisper nor soft, but just at a normal speaking voice that we all use in our conversations with one another.

Maren's veil then closed on her......and she never spoke again until it was the normal time for a child to start saying words or forming words together. I have no doubts about where this beautiful daughter of God came from...where we all came from. She was just allowed to give us an extra gift from our Father in Heaven.
Maren is incredible.
Maren is a joy to be around
Maren is thoughtful and kind and caring
Maren is a straight A student and loves learning
Maren is very responsible in all she is and all she does
Maren was born beautiful and is a beautiful girl not only physically, but spiritually
Maren is adored by all who know her.
Maren is a gift to all the Hirz Family and we are most thankful for her.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR PRECIOUS, WONDERFUL, MARVELOUS, HAPPY MAREN!

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Always remember that when a newborn baby comes into your life..look into their eyes and remember that they just left God just a few seconds ago. That baby said goodbye to all he or she knew in his or her heavenly home and came to earth to say, "Hi ...I am here. I am so happy to be with you. I hope you will love me and take good care of me. Bye."

PRAYERS NEEDED FOR JULIE

THE ROUGHAN FAMILY

MEGAN, DON, RYAN, JULIE AND MATTHEW

As you can see our daughter Julie has a very happy family. She has done a great job as a wife and mother...always putting herself last as she devotes her time, talents, energy to those around her. Julie has needs too but will never admit it. She could be very ill and yet she would be the first at your door in offering some of her home baked cookies, etc to help cheer you up.

Julie was born here in Moses Lake and so this is her place and all of you are her family and friends. She loves helping in the schools, in the church, going the extra mile with helping others and most of the time it is without that person knowing who it is that left a meal or provided financial help. She is a "silent partner" with God.

Julie likes to have fun and makes sure that the family is brought together on many occasions. It was on one of those occasions that Julie got injured. At their home they have a beautiful set-up in their huge yard: batting cage, volleyball area, other game areas, swimming pool, gazebo, large eating area...you get the picture.

Julie had us all come for Labor Day. Some were sitting around eating, talking and the majority of the young, plus a couple of adults, were playing volleyball. Julie went over to do pictures or video...she was standing on the sidelines. All of a sudden she was on the ground. One of the players went after the ball and that player was one of her brothers. He came crashing down on her, she fell on her tailbone, and then her head slammed hard on the ground.

I have given you the picture now so you can imagine the concern we all had as she continued to be in great pain. She waited for two hours for the pain to subside but finally she and her husband went to the emergency room of the hospital. They were there for almost 5 hours. A CAT scan showed no blood clot or fractures, but she did have a concussion. Julie already had problems with her neck and this injury to her head also made her neck worse. After two weeks she still is in pain in her head, neck and tailbone. She is going to physical therapy.

I know that blogs should be positive and uplifting for all to enjoy, but I am reaching out to my friends and asking your thoughtful prayers in her behalf. She has had a Priesthood blessing and felt much relief after that. Julie is so used to giving all that she has....it is time for her to be on the receiving end.

Thank you in advance for your support. Your prayers are needed in my daughter's behalf.

BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING IN DEREK'S LIFE

DEREK MATTHEW HIRZ

HAPPY 12TH BIRTHDAY...A BIG ONE!!!!!!!

Turning twelve is a huge moment in the life of a young man in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

And for this young man, Derek has been looking forward to this moment for a long time.

What does it mean in turning 12 for Derek.

Well for one, it means the beginning of something new in his life that will change him, magnify him, make him feel even more responsible and an opportunity for him to serve our Father in Heaven.

This next Sunday..the 19th of September of 2010, Derek will receive the Aaronic Priesthood and start his wonderful, sacred journey of having the authority to perform his responsibilities for the rest of his life.

Also this next Sunday, Derek will graduate from Primary...the children's organization that he has been in since he was 3 years old. Then Derek will be ordained into the priesthood as a deacon. He will have the responsibility of passing the Sacrament every Sunday and going into people's homes and collecting their fast offerings for those who are in a position of need.

Derek will also now start going to the Young Men's organization on Wednesday nights and participating in their activities of fun, learning and service.

I have told you a few things about Derek's changes, but one thing will never change. Derek is a sweetheart. He is the most gentle, kind, loving young man. He loves life. He is a good student and is respectful of his teachers. He loves sports..especially basketball. He is good to animals. He is the son of Craig and Tina Hirz and has sisters Amber, Ashley and Heidi. Last but not least Derek is very loving and helpful. We honor this young man who brings so much joy into our lives, especially mine. Everyone needs a "Derek" in their lives. One day I will tell you a story about his name......finally I got my Derek. Happy 12th Birthday to a sweetheart...a gem of a young man who reminds me daily of God's gifts. As I close this, Derek and his parents and his cousin Landon are on their way to a Mariner's Baseball game. Have a great time Derek...don't forget the "rally fries!" And the hot dogs! And the popcorn! Tell Ichiro hi for me! Have a blast!!!

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Are you planning on a heavenly "hereafter"????

Let it be known that it will be determined by what you are going after here!!

MINDI'S TURN!

Mindi and Scott June 2010
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MINDI

The "baby" of our family just had a birthday...yes we are busy in the Hirz family with birthdays coming one after another and we are not through yet!

We are celebrating a few days after her birthday...celebrating to honor this most wonderful woman.

Mindi is every one's friend...young and old. She has so many qualities that make you want to be near her all the time.
As you can see Mindi is beautiful, but her beauty goes deeper.
She is so kind and angelic and is a calming influence on the lives of others.
She is ambitious and full of energy.
She never complains and is always smiling
She is a great wife and mother
Her home is always immaculate
She loves to help others and is ALWAYS helping me...especially steam cleaning my kitchen and bathrooms.
She is very good and kind to animals
She shares her great cooking and baking talents with us.
I could go on and list more qualities of Mindi...so many more that it would make a book.
Suffice it to say that
I love her laugh
I love her ways
I love Mindi as my own flesh and blood.

Happy Birthday dear, sweet, lovely Mindi
P. S.......she loves being called the "baby" of the adult members of the family and laughs heartily when she says it!! Gotta to love this gal....I know you would.


Mimi's Thought for the Day: It is said that the best things come in small packages. That is Mindi...inside of this outwardly beautiful woman you will find a heart of gold. The following is Mindi through and through and it should be found in all of us:
"Laugh with your eyes,
Smile with your soul,
Hug with your heart and
Love with your spirit"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CRAIG

CRAIG AND TINA

Moms are suppose to be on top of everything right? Not this mom. I forgot to pay tribute to my third son as he celebrated his 45th birthday on Labor Day. At the party he reminded me it had been my 45th year since I labored to bring him into the world.

Craig is the nicest guy! He loves life! I can still see him as a little boy playing in the dirt with his big yellow Tonka trucks of all kinds. He would sing as he played. He has a beautiful singing voice but he does not share it with the world.

We moved here in 1966 when Craig was only 6 months old. What an adorable baby, toddler and child he was. So good natured. Today he is a man of many qualities. He brought into our life beautiful Tina. They have four children: twins Amber and Ashley both going to college in Utah; Heidi a freshman at the high school and Derek a 6th grader in middle school.

Some of the things I admire in Craig are:

1. He is a very hard worker

2. He was a good athlete and still enjoys sports

3. Terrific sense of humor

4. Shows great respect to his father and I

5. Loves his wife dearly and also his children

6. I so love his laugh...it is great!

7. He is honest

8. He is dependable

9. He is strong in his relationship to God and Christ

10. He and his brothers and sister get along perfectly

11. He is a healthy eater

12. He will drop whatever he is doing and help you.

13. He brings sunshine into my life

14. He does not tear down others

15. He is a man of his word.

I could list another 30 traits of Craig, but I am vowing to shorten my lengthy posts. In a nutshell Craig is a jewel, a gift and I am blessed to be the receiver of his wondrous ways time and time again.

So just a few things about Craig, but my heart is full of gratefulness for God's gift. I had the honor of nurturing, teaching and loving him and having him close by. He is a great person and I have been blessed to have him for my son. Happy Birthday dearest Craig. I love you.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHERISE

CHERISE (far left) WITH HER THREE SISTERS: MAREN, MARQUEL AND CHAYLA

Today is Cherise Danielle's birthday...she is affectionately called Cherisee-Pie. When you think of a pie you think of sweetness, solid, delicate, fulfilling, beautiful, and also a warm feeling to your heart.
Well our little "pie" has grown up to be all that and more!!! I think of Cherise more as a daughter than a granddaughter as I had the blessing of taking care of her from the time she was 2 months old to 2 years old as her mom had to work full-time and her dad went to college all day. Every morning she would come to my home, except on the weekends. I got so attached to her. When she and her momma and daddy (Jackie and Bruce) moved to Ellensburg for Bruce to finish his college education at Central Washington College, they took my heart with them. I will never forget our parting as they pulled out of the driveway. Cherise was in her child seat and she was slowly waving goodbye to me...I was in tears. For awhile I had to go over every week and get my "Cherise fix". Of course now they are back here and I have seen her grow up to be not only beautiful physically, but a charming, inspiring young woman.
Some of the things I love about Cherise are:
1. She is classy
2. She is friendly and kind to me
3. She will do anything to help me.
4. She is compassionate and caring for everyone
5. She is a very hard worker
6. She is dependable
7. She is ambitious
8. She has a fun and happy personality
9. She can be relied on.....keeps her word.
10. She is neat, tidy and shows it in her home and the way she takes care of herself.

These are just a few things about Cherise. She is amazing!! She cares for the very young to the very old. She is one to watch, to follow, to emulate in every way...as she follows the right and true path. Thank you Cherise for your love, your special, beautiful ways that make you unique and a joy in our lives.

HAVE A GREAT AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY. NO ONE DESERVES MORE THAN YOU!!

Mimi's Thought for the Day: In caring for Cherise those two years...it changed me. I don't know what influence I had on her life, but she influenced mine. She made me more aware of TIME. There is a time for everything...only we can decide how we use it...how we fill it...with nonsense or with good sense. Those two years were full of memories for me...just as if it were yesterday...I am glad I filled it with loving a little baby girl, holding, singing, playing with her. Yes as an act of service if you want...but truly for me..the "time" has been imprinted on my mind as an act of nurturing and loving. My time was not wasted. We all need to take stock of what we do with our "TIME"....as it is gone, even as I write this I can hear the clock ticking away...tick..tick...tick.........

LABOR OF LOVE

MY LABOR OF LOVE
Any parent can tell you that the labor that is used to raise a family is a LABOR OF LOVE that includes praying constantly, teaching, disciplining, uplifting, hugging, praising, forgiving, etc.

This coming Monday...Sep 6th...our country celebrates the labor of others who help make this country run, our cities produce, our schools succeed and our families thrive.

We use this holiday to stop and pay respect to all those who have labored in our behalf...our parents, friends, the policeman, the fireman, the doctor and nurse, the sales clerk, the teacher, the coach, the Bishop and Counselors, the waiter/waitress, the truck driver, the Marines, Navy, Army, Air Force, National Guard, Coast Guard, etc. I could go on and on and on and on....daily labor is given by many to make each of our individual lives run smoothly and enrich our lives with the good things of this earth.

I reflected lately on just what our family is doing to contribute to the society of the people of the United States. My husband Ned is a farmer and he puts in VERY long hours and lots of blood (literally), sweat (that too) and some tears. He grows hay for someone's dairy cows, corn for someone's beef, wheat for someone's bread, cereal and pasta.

Our oldest child Brad works on the farm as well as his own land...following in the footsteps of his father. Our next son Bruce works as an Human Resource Manager for an agricultural business that provides frozen foods to restaurants and markets. Our next son Craig is also working on the farm and also putting in extra long hours---never complaining, but keeps on keeping on until the snow is deep upon the ground. Then there is son Mark who is a trooper...you know the one who labors to keep the highways safe for you to drive on. Then last son Scott works for a local farm equipment company and he knows his products frontwards and backwards and is the man the farmers like to see. Our son-in-law Don is an officer in the military and has been sent to Afghanistan twice.

The women? Jackie (works for a podiatrist), Kelly(is a hair stylist), Mindi (works at the high school ) Tina (does bookkeeping for her father's business) and Julie (she is involved in the schools in doing volunteer work) and then all of these wonderful women are laboring from morning to night and then some to help provide and also do all the homemaking jobs that keep the family running smoothly. It is said that a woman's labor is never done.

Today my thoughts are jumbled as to the word "labor"...my brain is like a file cabinet with the words flashing in front of me: work, sweat, tears, blood, blisters, backaches, weeds, callouses, re-doing, pain, etc. After the labor comes the sweetness: beautiful home, flowers, lawn, organization, service, feeling of joy, pride, smiles, etc.

I am most thankful for the labor of our hands and our hearts and our brains. Those hands have brought forth the strength of mankind, the beauties of the earth and last but not least, the future leaders of the world and of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have been given much through the labor of others and we thank them and honor them.

Mimi's Thought for the Day: "Be not weary in well doing." "If you do it right the first time you won't have to do it again!" "Never go to bed without straightening up the house first...you don't want to get up to 'yesterday's' work!" "A stitch in time save nine." "Teach your children to work...they will thank you one day." "God's work is never done...IT IS A LABOR OF LOVE!"

HAVE A WONDERFUL LABOR DAY HOLIDAY!!

MY 'BABY' IS 40 TODAY!

HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY TO OUR WONDERFUL SCOTT

I wanted to share with you a huge event in our family that is happening today! Our last born child...known as Scott...is having his BIG birthday...the 40th. He is my 'baby'...but he certainly has changed a lot. He is tall (6'5"), very handsome and has a personality that warms the hearts of those who know him.
I would like to pay tribute to Scott on this day by listing 40 facts of my precious son:

1. He is a hard worker
2. He married an angel named Mindi
3. He brought into this world four beautiful and handsome children: Makenna, Joshua, Landon and Kyle.
4. He is dedicated and committed to his job, the Lord, his church callings and last but not least his family.
5. He loves the teenage youth and works and plays with them at every opportunity.
6. He is a terrific basketball coach.
7. He loves to tease.
8. He is sensitive to the needs of others.
9. He plays sports, games, etc., with his children.
10. He teaches his children to work and be responsible.
11. He likes to have a clean and neat yard and works hard to maintain it.
12. He is fun!
13. And funny!
14. He likes my cooking.
15. His laugh and giggle are contagious.
16. He takes seriously his calling as a member of our ward Bishopric.
17. He looks for ways to help.
18. He has vast knowledge of anything pertaining to farming, building houses, etc.
19. He is the perfect handyman. There isn't anything he cannot do.
20. He has a very intelligent mind.
21. He will never turn anyone down even though his plate is full.
22. He is a good at counseling others in his life: family, friends, co-workers.
23. He is very well respected by his older brothers (4) and his sister. He has earned it!
24. He treats his wife Mindi like a queen and "courts" her often.
25. He brings me flowers.
26. He is a good chef on the BBQ grill and in the kitchen.
27. He is a good organizer in all aspects of his life.
28. He still practices his mission language (Swedish) so he won't forget it.
29. He sees things that need to be done in my yard and takes care of it.
30. He does not spend foolishly but stays on a budget.
31. He built, with the help of Mindi's family Ray and Ode, the beautiful home they have.
32. He is compassionate and tender.
33. He is one of those kind of sons that never ask what he can do, but sees it and does it.
34. He treats me with total respect and love.
35. He is constantly putting his arms around me and holding me and telling me he loves me.
36. He shares his bounty of the garden with neighbors, friends and family.
37. He knows how to mend broken hearts.
38. He is an example of righteousness.
39. He lives up to the remark I gave right after delivering him: "this child will give us so much joy."
40. And he has...through his devotion to God, his family and to us.

We honor you Scott. We praise you for your goodness. You are a remarkable man that has brought your father and I complete joy. We know that you will continue on the path that will bring many more blessings to yourself as well to those who walk with you through this life.

We love you with all our hearts. Have a great birthday!
Mimi's Thought for the Day: Our years on earth count! Not only our birthday years, but what we do with those years. It would be wise for us to fill those years with the things that really count: God, family, home, service, etc.,

A HIS & HIRZ MOMENT

SEVEN OF MY BLESSINGS FROM GOD...and they are:
Chayla, Cherise, Hilary, Heather in first wagon
Brent holding identical twins Amber and Ashley (which is which?)

This is a picture of our first seven grandchildren. I cannot believe how the time has flown to where they are all grown up now. Chayla plays basketball on a scholarship with Big Bend; Cherise works for a dental office as a dental assistant; Hilary lives in Oregon; Heather works for a local financial office and a local clothing store..ambitious girl; Brent is married to Carolyn Jackson and he is going to BYU and also works for Staples, with Carolyn teaching in the school system in Provo, Utah; Amber and Ashley are college students in Utah.
I look back at this picture and remember the trip that Ned and I took in 1991 to Virginia and up into Pennsylvania..that is where we bought the wagon from the Amish people. Ned wanted it so badly for the grandchildren so he could pull them around. They loved it. I can still hear them squeal with delight as he would pull them around the farm...the older children hanging on to the very young ones in their care.
Twas a good life and it continues to be so. Precious memories are good for the soul.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY MOMENTS OR MEMORIES?

Mimi's Thought For the Day: Precious moments happen every day. Open your eyes and see. Hear with your ears. Feel with your heart.

PRECIOUS MEMORIES

NED'S PARENTS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

1973

Back Row: Deanna and Ned

Middle Row: Craig, Bruce and Brad

Front Row: Mark, Scott and Julie

I just had to share a picture of our family that was taken at the celebration of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Ned's parents. I suppose, since Ned and I just celebrated our 50th, that this picture took on new meaning. I look at the clothing styles, the home haircuts by mom, the "bubble" hairstyle of me, the youthful looks of all of us.

These precious children of mine now get their haircuts from professionals. Julie quit wearing the dresses I made for her after she left elementary school. The boys still wear ties but only with white shirts and the ties are much longer. Julie wears pretty shoes with her clothes now. And Scott definitely makes sure his shirt is tucked in.

We did not have much in a material way, but we sure had a lot of love, homemade cookies every week, our children had access to the kitchen to learn to cook, the farm to learn to work and church to learn about the Gospel and about God. Life was good. We were rich in other ways.

Mimi's Thought For The Day: Each picture has a story to tell. What does your photo album say? Does it tell the story behind the picture? Does it have names of those in the picture? Dates? Places? My great grandmother Rebecca Emeline Payton Brown left a beautiful album with tintype pictures, other pictures from long gone photography studios. What a treasure. Except something is missing. I have no idea who they are. No names. No dates. No places. My thought for you and I is to take one picture a day...label it with whom, when, where and the why of the picture--that is the story that needs to be told. If the picture is you on a horse, tell how old you were, where it was taken, the horse's name, how you felt on the horse, who owed the horse, etc. Give your pictures life...one picture...one each day and you will have a treasure.

THESE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

When I saw this background for blogging, I immediately thought of a time when I was younger. I love clouds and this year we have had incredible shaped clouds in our valley. As a small girl I would lay on the lawn, look up at the beautiful floating clouds and I would try to see if anyone was standing on them. Then I would look for Jesus Christ. Lastly, I looked to see if the cloud was shaped like an elephant, a turtle, a bear, etc.

One year when I got a new journal I wrote on the very back page of it first. I listed some of my favorite things and some not so favored.

Here is what it says in my journal:

" I have felt impressed to write down some of my favorite things for the enjoyment of my grandchildren and great grandchildren. Maybe I like to plan ahead as I'm only 38 but I have learned to obey the still small voice. I think that by relating these likes and dislikes you may know me better.
1. I love white fluffy thick clouds that you can imagine looking like animals, people or objects.
2. I like lemon meringue pie
3. My favorite color is teal
4. I like "out-going" extroverted people who are friendly and fun.
5. Piano music--classical music relaxes me.
6. I adore babies
7. I enjoy walking in the rain.
8. I love eating a firm tomato right freshly picked...warmed by the sun.
9. I like a well organized home. Clutter makes me feel cluttered. Neat makes me feel calm.
10. I love autumn colors--especially the red and oranges, yellows on the trees.
11. I like people who keep their word and also who are prompt.
12. I do not like worms...am absolutely frightened of them. Mice and spiders don't bother me.
13. I do not like two-faced people, and those that swear and are liars.
14. I do not like spinach and liver
15. Celery is my favorite food.

Surprisingly after viewing this list for the first time in decades...I have not changed much except I am 71 now, still cannot stand liver. Spinach...it is great raw..eat it all the time. Celery....it is still my favorite food!! And now that I have grandchildren, I would have to list them on my list of favorite things and put them as NUMBER ONE!!!

What are a few of YOUR favorite things????

Mimi's Thought For The Day: We go through "change" often during our lives. We change clothes every day, we change friends, schools, teachers, our goals, our commitments, our testimonies, our feelings and on and on. I am sure you can think of a hundred or more other changes we make whether physical, spiritual or emotional. One belief we should all have and not change in any way is to remember who we are, where we came from, why we are here and where we are going. Great road map to get through all the changes of life that come our way.

WHAT MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME

As I was preparing dinner this afternoon I suddenly thought of my mother. A pang of sorrow came as I miss her TERRIBLY!!! She has been gone over just over 11 years (June 28th) , but her influence lives on. I thought, as I was cooking, of how she taught me to cook, but I knew I could never come up to the excellence that she held in her kitchen. I have to laugh as I would ask her over the phone (she lived in Medford, Oregon) for a recipe. She would have them in her head and I would ask, "well how much of a "dash" of oregano (or some other spice/herb) She would reply, "oh I never measure...but just a pinch of this and that."

When she first became a bride she told me the story (in later years) of how she wanted to cook some rice for her and my father. She looked at the bag or box of rice and it didn't look like too much so she ended up cooking the whole thing. To her amazement she had to fill every empty bowl and pan in her home with cooked rice. She became a quick learner after that and she made sure she read the directions!

Mom never gave up her ability to cook her own way and put in her own additions even though we were poor growing up. My parents divorced around when I was 7 or 8 years old and after that we had a tough time. No car. Hardly any money. She had to work full time for a few cents an hour. We had to live with other families at times to survive.

Her freedom to cook in her own kitchen came later when life became happier and better for her. Because of my mother's enjoyment of cooking and sewing, I took six years of sewing and cooking classes in junior high and high school...Mom had giving me a love for those two arts and I wanted to know more. It paid off as I used to sew my own dresses, pajamas and then when I had children all got shirts, pajamas, and sweet little dresses for my only daughter Julie.

Not only did Mom teach me how to cook, but she also taught me: crochet afghans, cross-stitch, and her love of playing different games. But the legacy that my mother left with me and that I pass on to my children is that she had wonderful qualities that I try to emulate and put into practice. I want to share those with you.

My mother was honest, caring, kind, giving, shared all she had. She never said anything bad about anyone. She was humble. She would go out of her way to help someone. She was just devoted and committed to being a good person. She would try to give to my brother and I and she would go without. Sounds like a good mother doesn't it!!

When I think of her today...I think of her beauty both outer beauty and inner beauty...her dark hair and dark brown eyes. I think of her perfect lips and nose and her wonderful, infectious laugh. I think of her slender, beautiful hands with perfect long nails. I think of what those hands had done for hundreds of people throughout her lifetime.

I could write so much more...but let me just say that God blessed me with a choice, wise, loving mother and what I wouldn't give to be able to tell her one more time: "I love you Mom...you are the best. You are my ideal. Thank you for teaching, guiding and leading me. I adore you."

Please write and tell me what is one or more things you learned from your mother that you have passed or will pass on to your children.

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Learning new things, improving one's character, sharing and serving are among the reasons we are here on earth. We all have skills to teach and influence the lives of others. Reach out and lead others...it will help them and YOU.

MY HAPPY PLAYING CHILDREN

BRAD, SCOTT, BRUCE, MARK, CRAIG
SUPPORTING THEIR SISTER JULIE

So many times people ask me about my children. I have had this favorite picture for several years. I thought it would give everyone an idea of what they look like and smile like. I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to be their mother...oh, how I have learned from them. God has blessed me wonderfully with these children of His. It is a joy to see their interaction with one another and you can tell that they not only love one another, but like one another.

My children grew up being best friends and that helped our family to be close and remain close today. I have always said that I feel that I am already experiencing a little of heaven here on earth. I have to commend Julie for putting up with at times, five "too happy" brothers. Oh the memories are priceless! And our tummies still ache from all the laughter.

Mimi's Thought for the Day: It is said that the family that prays together, stays together. I agree, but may I also add: The family that plays together wants to pray together. I remember many years ago a Bishop in our Stake said in a meeting I was conducting for Young Women leaders, and I quote "If you want to get close to the girls, you have to go beyond Sunday." This man later became our Stake President...President Steve Jorgensen. His words were profound. What he was saying is that our Sunday time together alone is not going to do it, but we need to go the extra mile. There has to be interaction of fun, laughter, hugs, warmth, caring and a huge dose of LOVE for ALL.....24 hours a day...7 days a week. Whether it is family or those we come in contact with, all children of God need to be accepted and feel wonderful.

I WAITED THIRTY SIX YEARS!!!!!!

I consider myself a very patience person and if I told you I was patiently waiting for a sprinkler system to be put in my yard, you may think nothing of it. But what if I told you that I waited for 36 long years. We have a huge yard and for years I have hauled long hoses from one end to the other plus the side yards. The hoses were so long and heavy that I would have to grab the hose, fling it onto my shoulder and trudge forward and bent over like someone battling a strong wind.

My husband Ned decided it was time...perhaps that is because he has had to do the hoses this year because of some physical problems that won't let me do it any more. He, Brad and Craig have been working hard on it with the assistance of three of my grandsons...Josh, Landon and Kyle. It is up and going, with just a small section that needs to be done. Hooray! Finally!

As soon as I can I will post a picture. Our lawn is torn up, messed up and looks horrible right now. Give it some good old weed and feed and water and it will look like a million....okay a thousand...soon.

Other projects we plan to do this year is paint the house. If you have suggestions on color combinations let me know. I am thinking a soft yellow with red door and white trim and railings...shutters in white or red. Also green door would be good with same in shutters.

We had new carpet put in the basement so the bedrooms and large family room look fantastic. Now for the upstairs.

I wonder how long I will have to wait for them. A new kitchen was promised years ago but hasn't happened as yet. I am patient, but my clock is running out!!

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Just as I was starting to prepare dinner, my dear husband shut off the water at the pump house. We were having tacos and macaroni salad. Son Craig went downstairs and got 2 liters of water (so glad to have the water stored), I boiled it for 10 minutes, then cooked the pasta. How did I cool it? Good old ice cubes. Worked great. Next was taco meat..cooked it and added taco seasoning and was suppose to add a little water, but I had used the water and did not want to go downstairs. Again, threw in some ice cubes and that worked great. Then...have to wash the lettuce, tomato and celery. Hmmm. Really a problem as I could not go down those stairs...bad foot day...so I had some diet 7-up in the refrigerator, put a little in a bowl, added ice cubes and washed tomato, celery, lettuce.. I have cooked for my family for 50 years and not once have we had food poisoning but in the back of my mind I could not help but think this is not as sanitary as running water. What is my thought for the day? STORE WATER!!! IF NO WATER, USE ICE CUBES FOR COOLING AND MAKING WATER. IF YOU HAVE NONE OF THE ABOVE YOUR HUSBAND NEEDS TO TAKE YOU TO DINNER AS YOU WERE NOT WARNED THE WATER WAS GOING OFF AND YOU WOULD HAVE BEEN PREPARED! I just did not have the heart to do that to him as he had worked hard from early morning on the sprinkler system. So in the words of my wise husband I will use his saying of several decades that he made up: "Go slow. Keep cool and drink plenty of water." That's what I did...slow in cooking....kept my cool....and afterwards chewed on ice. VERY SORRY ABOUT THE LONG "THOUGHT" (STORY) BUT I HAD TO GIVE YOU A PEEK INTO MY LIFE IN THE KITCHEN.

WHAT A PARTY!!!

Ned and I celebrating our 50th anniversary



What a wonderful day we had with our children and grandchildren as they gave us a party like no other! Everything was perfect: the weather, the food, the surroundings, the entertainment and of course our family. I loved every minute of it. We did not want a big, expensive party but something very low keyed with just our own family. On our 40th anniversary our children gave us "the works"...limo, invited guests, food galore, entertainment...the expense was not spared. This year we wanted to be able to relax, not get dressed up and just be at home...our own little sacred place on earth.



Our Wedding Clothing

Hanging from our Sugar Maple tree was our once lovely clothing that we married in. I have kept them in my cedar chest all these 50 years. My simple little white dress had lost its pleats and had yellowed a little and somewhere, sometime I lost the belt. Ned's jacket was still in great condition. We noticed that the clothing looked a little small...can't believe we once fit into them.

More pictures will be posted as they come from other members of the family, plus we had a wonderful photographer by the name of Meg Jackson, the daughter of Tom and M'Lee. She was great and we know she will be very successful in this hobby that may one day turn into a career.

It was such a fun time. All my children were present and their spouses, plus all the grandchildren with the exception of Brent and his wife Carolyn who are living in Provo, Utah. The food was fantastic!! I did not even get to taste it all as there was so much. We had steak, chicken, pork loin, sausage, baked potatoes, different salads, homemade rolls, corn on the cob, fruits of all kinds, cheeses, veggies...oh it was a buffet set for royalty. And that is just how we felt.

Later, in the evening after the meal we had the entertainment. Our son Scott invited Glenn Bair and he gave us a memorable treat of some of the poems he has created, plus guitar and singing. He is a remarkable man. I believe he is called the Cowboy Poet and has books, CD's, etc. Our children and grandchildren sang to us "I Have a Family Here on Earth". It was beautiful.

Scott announced to us that he was able to find a long lost son of ours. Ned and I looked at each other, thinking 'does he/she have a son and never told me?'. Scott then introduced "our son" and then he came around the corner of the house. I nearly died. There was our real son Mark...yeah, the Washington State Trooper, who did not even look like himself. He always has had the "gift" of being able to stick his stomach way out and he had to have suspenders on to hold up his pants. His teeth were rotten, jagged teeth...his outfit of clothes was hilarious. The crowd roared. Everyone was doubled over in laughter and tears. Me....I started gagging. I have a terrible gag reflex and it was made evident that evening. The name of this lost son is Bubba R. Wiser. He came to Ned and I crying "Mommmmm-ma" and of course only as Mark can he was hamming it up big time with body language, speech, looks, etc. A choice moment that we will never forget.

We then were presented a gift from the children. We told them that we needed nothing, that my health problems would not allow us to travel, so they came up with a different plan as they wanted to give us something. They gave us an album of several pictures from babyhood to adulthood of each member of our family and also each person had written letters of love and appreciation. Ned and I were so thrilled and touched. Nothing could have been any nicer, any more appreciated than that gift of love. It is a treasure and will last beyond us.

Ned and I then cut our little cake, beautifully made by Jackie...it even had the original wedding bride and groom that we had on our little cake back in 1960. Our oldest son Brad then rose and each person held a stemmed glass in their hands filled with Ginger Ale. He said a toast that was absolutely beautiful and touched me to the very core. And then we clinked our glasses and hugged and cried over such a perfect party...so perfect.
Brad said that he has been involved in planning, putting together over 100 weddings and receptions and he has never seen one so perfect as this one. It was...in every way. We are so glad we had it here at our home, surrounded by our sweet and eternal family. I shall never forget this wonderful moment of love, of respect, of laughter, of happiness and the sweet feeling of contentment and peace.

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Fifty years of marriage is a drop in the bucket compared to all eternity and yet that "drop" should contain love, caring, sharing, kindness and putting one another first. That "drop" will one day multiply into a "sea" of blessings you could never imagine, but will be yours for eternity. Get your bucket ready!

50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY!!!!!

June 11, 1960

I just wanted to share with all of you that today is the day that I have lived for. Fifty years ago Ned and I were married. I remember it as if it were yesterday. We were so young, so much in love. Of course, no one knows what the future will bring and it brought us experiences that would make anyone cry, anyone laugh and anyone learn from.

We cried when death touched our lives, when crops failed, when choices of others brought pain, when we saw our children get hurt through the actions of others. But we developed the "bouncing ball" syndrome.... get knocked down and you get right up!

We laughed heartily over the many ways we would play tricks on each other....serve blackened toast to him for his breakfast or take the little tiny pieces of splattered pancake batter in the skillet and make a stack of miniature pancakes and serve that to him for his breakfast. A trick he played on me was one time...many years ago...I saw him chewing gum. I wanted him to give me a portion of what gum was in his mouth. We came near one another and we kissed a long kiss and then he proceeded to push his gum into my mouth. I had a big smile of happiness on my face and started to chew. All of a sudden I was gagging. It wasn't gum!! It was gristle from some meat. Oh how he laughed and still laughs about it today. I learned my lesson...never trust your husband when he so willing to share. He was always doing things like that. We exercised our sense of humor many times.

We had the joy of having five sons and one daughter. We could not ask for more wonderful children. Thank you Brad, Bruce, Craig, Mark, Scott and Julie for being such choice, caring and loving children. They have made us laugh until our stomachs hurt. They have made us cry because of the heartaches to come their way. We have all survived and hopefully grown and learned many lessons.

I came from a divorced home and I always said that I would never do that to my children. I have worked hard, committed deeply and given my best to my man. He has done likewise.
Because of that commitment we have now been married 50 years and we look forward to the next milestone, always keeping in mind that we must continually make one another first in our lives and continue to show respect, kindness, tenderness and oh yes, keep those little "tricks" coming...the ones that make us so glad we married one another.

Tomorrow (Saturday) will be our day of celebration. Our children have it all planned...a day of surprises. We have kept our celebration very private...just our children (I have made their sweethearts my children too) and 18 grandchildren... about 32 of us! I will imprint on my mind the laughs, the tears, the memories of the celebration for the rest of my earthly life. I will post later and relate the day to you.

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Elizabeth Barrett Browning said it so eloquently: "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth, breadth, height my soul can reach......I love thee with the breath, smiles, tears, of all my life and if God chooses, I shall but love thee better after death." I have given just a part of what she had said. I hear her saying that love needs to be shown as well as spoken . And she had a glimpse of eternity....that love between a man and woman could go on and on and on and it was meant by God that they can be together.

FOUR GRADS FROM MIDDLE SCHOOL

I had to pinch myself as I watched four of my grandchildren graduate from middle school tonight. Four precious grandchildren at one time, from the same school, all graduating together. What a joy that was. Not only are all of them either straight A or Honor Roll students but they are the best of friends with one another. Of course they have been watched over from the very beginning and we made plenty of opportunities for them to play together and be together. Their talents range from sports (soccer, basketball, long distance running, baseball/softball) to piano, to just being very nice young people. I love watching them interact with one another and the laughter and giggling and lit up faces tell it all...they truly like and love one another.

I am grateful for their parents too, for the example they have been. They have emphasized learning and they take a direct interest in what and how their child is doing in school and in the community.

I cannot believe how fast the time has gone since the beginning of their existence upon the earth. I held each one shortly after they were born..one in January, another in April, and TWO in November and all in the same year!! I saw them go from crawling to walking the same path of our Savior...meaning they are making good and smart choices.

Okay...this grandma..I am Mimi to them...could go on and on with their attributes, as I am so proud of them. Not only do I feel happiness for their scholastic abilities but for their kindness of heart, of their love, of their caring about others. They support one another. They help one another. They care and love one another.

I feel very honored and very blessed to have the privilege of being their grandmother. My cup runneth over with mercy and goodness. Thank you Heidi, Marquel, Megan and Josh. I better stop now and go sew my popped off blouse buttons back on!!

I promise you that I will post a picture soon of these four graduates. Please forgive me for my pride...it just cannot be helped.

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Being a parent is a wonderful gift from God. Helping that child to return to God is your gift to Him. Children do not want material things as much as they want parents who will listen, talk, hug, praise, play and pray with them. Have fun...the time goes as fast as a blink of an eye.