We had a wonderful Christmas......hope you did too!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Thursday, December 29, 2011
The Assignment
The alarm went off too early for a Sunday morning. It was cold, dark and rainy outside and yet we were excited and eager for the day ahead. Soon we heard the pitter-pattering of feet down the hallway. Even the MyMy was up and getting ready in a timely manner; an event that only occurs the first day of school and when grandparents are around to view her early morning soccer game. After packing water bottles, sandwiches, oranges and snacks, and having a morning prayer, the family took to the wet roads in unbelief that the sky was still so dark.
Because of the rain during the night the forecast did not look promising and we were not sure that the assignment could be fulfilled. We would not know until our arrival- three hours later- if things would come to pass. We drove towards Kingman where we would join up on the old, yet famous, Route 66 while listening to Christmas music.
After 60 miles on the famous Route, we turned off onto Indian Road 18 and headed towards Havasu Canyon which is the southwest corner of the Grand Canyon. On that road it became heavily wooded with Juniper trees and soon snow was covering the roadway, a rare treat for us in Arizona. Soon however, we began to go down in elevation leaving the snow and our trail behind.
We arrived at the Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead at our designated time, 9:45a.m. The sun was shining and the skies were clear, a promising forecast for the four of us. We parked and got out of the car. The weather was chilly and crisp. People were already there lining up for their turn. Derrick put our names on the list. We took pictures and wandered around as we were admiring our view. No one was really speaking and it was rather quiet until we could finally hear the sound we had been anticipating- blades whipping the air- helicopter blades to be exact.
We turned around and immediately out of the canyon came the helicopter and landed within seconds of it's appearance. The helicopter had a system that seemed efficient and organized. A man would appear from the shed, open the door to the helicopter and let people unload, while he unloaded their gear. Then, a gesture towards the awaiting crowd to quickly come forward to reload the helicopter, soon shutting the door and the helicopter quickly ascending into the canyon.
Seeing the nosedive into the canyon with such immediacy and quickness made my stomach twist a little in knots with apprehension. The girls and Derrick were only more excited by the thrilling ride soon to be taken by us.
You see, the only way to get to the Havasupai Village down below is either by helicopter, mules or backpacking 8 miles down. The people that live there use the helicopter all the time to take down their groceries, Christmas presents, and feed for their horses.
After waiting for an eternity it seems, it was finally our turn. We boarded the helicopter, buckled up and before we could even prepare for takeoff we were off the cliff with land only appearing hundreds of feet below. The view was breathtaking. None of us spoke because we were all looking out our own windows and viewing the earth below.
Soon, pictures were taken and the village appeared all quaint and untouched. It was hard to believe that people lived here. It was a step back in time, one that Derrick and myself have always longed for. We landed in the town square, unloaded and put our names on the list so we would have the chance to return later that day.
I asked for directions from an older lady who was sitting on a stone bench listening to her modern day ipod. We traversed on a red dirt path that was mostly muddy due to the overnight rain. We passed people on horses and dogs ran along. The leaves were changing color and falling to the ground. I enjoyed their smell and the crunch under my feet.
We walked along the path trying to take it all in. Smoke was coming from chimneys, people were hanging laundry and chopping wood. Kids were playing in the trees and riding their horses without saddles. It was picturesque and captivating.
After a 15 minute walk, we came upon a small, white church. It was our final destination and where we would fulfill Derrick's assignment. The church was immaculate. It was so white and the porch was spotless. We tried to wipe the mud off our shoes on the lawn before entering trying to hurry because we were very late. They, the ward members, realize that timing is not an exact science and usually wait for their visitors to arrive.
When we entered, the room had 5 other people there, 2 visitors and 3 ward members, a family. We quietly sat on the back row and listened to the first speaker. Once he finished, the man in front of us turned around and asked us why we had come. Derrick mentioned that he was the assigned High Council speaker and we had all prepared talks.
The MyMy started by introducing herself and mentioning her pet goldfish. The LuLu spoke next, followed by me and then Derrick. The man then asked if the girls would sing for them, in which we did. Brother Rogers spoke next. His sweet and humble testimony touched my heart so deeply. I am crying right now as I write because I was so touched by his faith and example to his family. I led the closing song and then gave the closing prayer.
This little church really has only 1 active family that come faithfully every week. They set up the chairs and maintain the church. In fact, the church is in their front yard.
Brother Rogers joined the church 30 years before as a young boy when sister missionaries were placed in their area. The church grew and at one time there was a large congregation. For some reason, church services were stopped in 1985 and many of the members went inactive and have stayed inactive.
We admired their faith and diligence. They meet weekly and never know if anyone will show. I wondered if I would do that. I know that there are faithful and diligent members all over the world doing that each week and admire their strength. I hope I would have been like that too if placed in that situation.
The Rogers family were so thankful that we had made the trek. We were so grateful and humbled by them. After visiting for 30 minutes we wished everyone a Merry Christmas and started the trek back to the town-square for our helicopter ride back into civilization. We really wished we could have stayed longer. The LuLu got to sit up front on the way back which was exciting for her.
Once at the top, we stopped to eat our sandwiches and then headed home. We drove back through the beautiful snow realizing that this might be the only time we see snow this season and stopped to play in it though inadequately dressed. The girls made snow angels, a snowman and had a snowball fight with dad.
We arrived home after dark. It had been a long day, but one that we will never forget. My thoughts have returned several times to that village and the Rogers family. They have been in our prayers too. We are hoping to backpack and camp along the falls sometime this year and look forward to another assignment in that cute, little church with a lot of heart, next year.
Because of the rain during the night the forecast did not look promising and we were not sure that the assignment could be fulfilled. We would not know until our arrival- three hours later- if things would come to pass. We drove towards Kingman where we would join up on the old, yet famous, Route 66 while listening to Christmas music.
After 60 miles on the famous Route, we turned off onto Indian Road 18 and headed towards Havasu Canyon which is the southwest corner of the Grand Canyon. On that road it became heavily wooded with Juniper trees and soon snow was covering the roadway, a rare treat for us in Arizona. Soon however, we began to go down in elevation leaving the snow and our trail behind.
We arrived at the Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead at our designated time, 9:45a.m. The sun was shining and the skies were clear, a promising forecast for the four of us. We parked and got out of the car. The weather was chilly and crisp. People were already there lining up for their turn. Derrick put our names on the list. We took pictures and wandered around as we were admiring our view. No one was really speaking and it was rather quiet until we could finally hear the sound we had been anticipating- blades whipping the air- helicopter blades to be exact.
We turned around and immediately out of the canyon came the helicopter and landed within seconds of it's appearance. The helicopter had a system that seemed efficient and organized. A man would appear from the shed, open the door to the helicopter and let people unload, while he unloaded their gear. Then, a gesture towards the awaiting crowd to quickly come forward to reload the helicopter, soon shutting the door and the helicopter quickly ascending into the canyon.
Seeing the nosedive into the canyon with such immediacy and quickness made my stomach twist a little in knots with apprehension. The girls and Derrick were only more excited by the thrilling ride soon to be taken by us.
You see, the only way to get to the Havasupai Village down below is either by helicopter, mules or backpacking 8 miles down. The people that live there use the helicopter all the time to take down their groceries, Christmas presents, and feed for their horses.
After waiting for an eternity it seems, it was finally our turn. We boarded the helicopter, buckled up and before we could even prepare for takeoff we were off the cliff with land only appearing hundreds of feet below. The view was breathtaking. None of us spoke because we were all looking out our own windows and viewing the earth below.
Soon, pictures were taken and the village appeared all quaint and untouched. It was hard to believe that people lived here. It was a step back in time, one that Derrick and myself have always longed for. We landed in the town square, unloaded and put our names on the list so we would have the chance to return later that day.
I asked for directions from an older lady who was sitting on a stone bench listening to her modern day ipod. We traversed on a red dirt path that was mostly muddy due to the overnight rain. We passed people on horses and dogs ran along. The leaves were changing color and falling to the ground. I enjoyed their smell and the crunch under my feet.
We walked along the path trying to take it all in. Smoke was coming from chimneys, people were hanging laundry and chopping wood. Kids were playing in the trees and riding their horses without saddles. It was picturesque and captivating.
After a 15 minute walk, we came upon a small, white church. It was our final destination and where we would fulfill Derrick's assignment. The church was immaculate. It was so white and the porch was spotless. We tried to wipe the mud off our shoes on the lawn before entering trying to hurry because we were very late. They, the ward members, realize that timing is not an exact science and usually wait for their visitors to arrive.
When we entered, the room had 5 other people there, 2 visitors and 3 ward members, a family. We quietly sat on the back row and listened to the first speaker. Once he finished, the man in front of us turned around and asked us why we had come. Derrick mentioned that he was the assigned High Council speaker and we had all prepared talks.
The MyMy started by introducing herself and mentioning her pet goldfish. The LuLu spoke next, followed by me and then Derrick. The man then asked if the girls would sing for them, in which we did. Brother Rogers spoke next. His sweet and humble testimony touched my heart so deeply. I am crying right now as I write because I was so touched by his faith and example to his family. I led the closing song and then gave the closing prayer.
This little church really has only 1 active family that come faithfully every week. They set up the chairs and maintain the church. In fact, the church is in their front yard.
Brother Rogers joined the church 30 years before as a young boy when sister missionaries were placed in their area. The church grew and at one time there was a large congregation. For some reason, church services were stopped in 1985 and many of the members went inactive and have stayed inactive.
We admired their faith and diligence. They meet weekly and never know if anyone will show. I wondered if I would do that. I know that there are faithful and diligent members all over the world doing that each week and admire their strength. I hope I would have been like that too if placed in that situation.
The Rogers family were so thankful that we had made the trek. We were so grateful and humbled by them. After visiting for 30 minutes we wished everyone a Merry Christmas and started the trek back to the town-square for our helicopter ride back into civilization. We really wished we could have stayed longer. The LuLu got to sit up front on the way back which was exciting for her.
Once at the top, we stopped to eat our sandwiches and then headed home. We drove back through the beautiful snow realizing that this might be the only time we see snow this season and stopped to play in it though inadequately dressed. The girls made snow angels, a snowman and had a snowball fight with dad.
We arrived home after dark. It had been a long day, but one that we will never forget. My thoughts have returned several times to that village and the Rogers family. They have been in our prayers too. We are hoping to backpack and camp along the falls sometime this year and look forward to another assignment in that cute, little church with a lot of heart, next year.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Reflection
With 2 days left I think I can still share my thoughts of gratefulness. Here they are.........
I am thankful for little girls, although not so little anymore, who enjoy little things such as homemade spa treatments and dressing up.
I am thankful for bigger girls who get to go off to girls camp and do not complain when their older and not cool mother tags along.
I am thankful for beautiful scenery that somehow fills my soul with vitality and freshness and gives me a sense that I can live in the brownness of the desert once again.
I am thankful for a family, where a vacation with them, is really a vacation.
I am thankful for temples and temple blessings where family can be together as a family forever although it didn't begin that way.
I am thankful for a Daddy who took his girls on a daddy daughter date promising them a great time and fulfilled that promise.
I am thankful for the Lady Leprechauns who entertained me for so many weekends. It was a fun season!
I am thankful for a wonderful day of Thanksgiving. It started with a turkey trot followed by a friendly neighborhood soccer game. Then, a family dinner out where mom could relax and enjoy the day without cooking. Once bellies were full and conversations were complete it was time to switch gears and head to the movies for an afternoon with the Muppets. The family finished the day with board games at home listening to Christmas music and munching on pumpkin pie.
I am so grateful and feel truly blessed.
I am thankful for little girls, although not so little anymore, who enjoy little things such as homemade spa treatments and dressing up.
I am thankful for bigger girls who get to go off to girls camp and do not complain when their older and not cool mother tags along.
I am thankful for beautiful scenery that somehow fills my soul with vitality and freshness and gives me a sense that I can live in the brownness of the desert once again.
I am thankful for a family, where a vacation with them, is really a vacation.
I am thankful for temples and temple blessings where family can be together as a family forever although it didn't begin that way.
I am thankful for a Daddy who took his girls on a daddy daughter date promising them a great time and fulfilled that promise.
I am thankful for the Lady Leprechauns who entertained me for so many weekends. It was a fun season!
I am thankful for a wonderful day of Thanksgiving. It started with a turkey trot followed by a friendly neighborhood soccer game. Then, a family dinner out where mom could relax and enjoy the day without cooking. Once bellies were full and conversations were complete it was time to switch gears and head to the movies for an afternoon with the Muppets. The family finished the day with board games at home listening to Christmas music and munching on pumpkin pie.
I am so grateful and feel truly blessed.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Mohave Swim Team
he LuLu just completed her first year on the Mohave High School Swim Team. She endured 5:30am practice times, home-school seminary, and hours and hours on team buses. She had a great time.
T
T
Hallowinner!
The MyMy said that she had the best Halloween ever! Finally! She actually went Trick-or-Treating this year besides the church Halloween Carnival. The LuLu was in Yuma at a swim meet for most of the festivities. Here are some pictures of the hallowed event.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Father-In-Law
The alarm clock began to beep awaking me from a deep slumber. The hour was early, 3:30 a.m. to be exact. The world around me was dark and quiet. It was time to get up and get the newspapers ready for delivery.
I got up, got dressed and wearily walked to the door wishing that I could sleep with the rest of the world. When I opened the door, my father-in-law was standing on the porch folding newspapers. What a surprise!
"What are you doing here?" I asked.
"Delivering newspapers," he said beaming from ear to ear.
My father-in-law was in town for just a couple of days. "So, do you mind if I come along?", he asked.
I nodded my head, still confused and shocked. We began folding papers in silence. Once they were folded, we loaded the papers in the car.
My memory fades as to who was driving or what vehicle we took. I do not remember the conversation, if any, that took place except for newspaper lingo. What I do remember is the image of my father-in-law, with an armload of newspapers wearing tennis shoes, walking down the street throwing the papers onto porches. I also remember his huge grin and his happy-to-help like attitude as he helped me deliver the papers during the wee hours of that morning.
We finished the job as the sun was slowly beginning to rise casting rays of light through the tree lined streets. Once back at my home, my father-in-law gave me a huge hug and kiss on the cheek thanking me for the opportunity of accompanying me on my job. He reminded me once again that I was his "favorite daughter in-law", and how proud he was of me. Then, he climbed into his car and headed for Grandpa's house waving and smiling as he left.
I quietly opened the door and slipped inside in hopes that I wouldn't awaken anyone. My heart was full and I felt loved. I wanted that feeling to stay with- just me- for awhile. It was too precious to share.
The memory is still precious today. Happy Birthday Dennis! Please know that you are my "favorite father-in-law" too.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Charging Up!
Silence in the room except for the hum of the refrigerator and the dropping of ice.
Sunlight beaming in through the closed blinds.
A crisp morning walk that seemed somewhat familiar, yet still far away.
Breathing in slowly and cautiously hoping that each part of my body can relax.
The muscles in my jaw are clenched so tight, I can still feel the pressure clear to my toes.
I really haven't done anything in the last 15 hours and still I am finding it difficult to unwind.
The laundry, the floors, the smell in the fridge are still waiting Impatiently for their turn.
The lesson plans, uncorrected papers, PTA budget and soccer mom items are furiously taunting my mind.
The husband and children are away, leaving me free from their demands, at least for awhile.
They will be home tonight longing for food, looking for clothing and demanding my listening ear of their overnight adventures.
I am hoping to be calm, cool, collected, smiling and refreshed- ready to jump in and once again be what they expect.
Most likely I will be able to pull it off- the smiles, the laughter, the calmness and collected, meeting demands both high and low, knowing that I can't fool myself- My head is barely staying above water.
On my knees I go- praying for strength and wanting the warmth of His arms around me.
I hear Him telling me that I am not alone. I can do it. I have done it and that I need to do it.
"I know," I whisper, " and I will."
Tears are streaming down my face as I feel His love and His strength. I am humbled and thankful.
The morning is fading ever so quickly. I realize that I need to begin, or I will not be finished and ready.
I will, but not until I have posted my thoughts and feelings. I do not want to forget. So I do.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Isn't She Lovely?
Isn't she lovely?
Isn't she beautiful?
Isn't she grown-up? My how time flies! Are we ready for this?
8th grade graduation party.
High School......coming soon!
Isn't she beautiful?
Isn't she grown-up? My how time flies! Are we ready for this?
8th grade graduation party.
High School......coming soon!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
The Reason We Splurge
Some may think it is extravagant. While others think it is a want instead of a need.
We know better.
But, just in case you need proof, here.....it.....is......
These are dishes washed in hard water, due to our water softener taking a short break.
Nasty!
We know better.
But, just in case you need proof, here.....it.....is......
These are dishes washed in hard water, due to our water softener taking a short break.
Nasty!
Wacky-Hair Day!
Another year and another wacky hair day. The MyMy went as a street.
The LuLu used all of her hair, and she has a ton of hair, to create a wacky do.
And, I decided to pull off a younger look.
Did it work?
The LuLu used all of her hair, and she has a ton of hair, to create a wacky do.
And, I decided to pull off a younger look.
Did it work?
The Weekend of the MyMy Talents
Friday, ballet dance........
Saturday, lyrical dance.........
Sunday, piano recital.
Monday, parents put their taxi-cab hat away for the summer.
Saturday, lyrical dance.........
Sunday, piano recital.
Monday, parents put their taxi-cab hat away for the summer.
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