Jensen Family Times

UPDATE - Claigh is well on his way to healing. . .

2011-07-17T12:38:00.004-06:00

As some of you may be aware, my husband Claigh serves as a member of the Stake High Council of the Ammon West Stake High Council of the Ammon West Stake in Idaho Falls. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is organized into congregations known as wards or for smaller congregations, branches. Groups of wards and branches are organized into what we call Stakes. Isaiah 54:2

I have other places which I will appoint unto them, and they shall be called stakes, for the curtains or the strength of Zion.
Doctrine and Covenants 101:21

Our Stake is lead by a Presidency who is supported by a High Council of twelve men. In the church, the priesthood brethren are organized into quorums or groups that work together to support the work of branches, wards, stakes, areas and the general church. These quorums do much to serve and form a tremendous brotherhood for the blessing of the members of God's kingdom here on earth as well as for many throughout the world of all faiths those without any faith to meet various needs - both temporal and spiritual.

Within the congregational family, we are assigned Home Teachers. Two men are assigned to work together to enable each and every family unit within the congregation to have someone to watch over them. These under-shepherds are able to focus attention on specific needs of individual members.

On our drive home from the Urgent Care Center in Rexburg on the 8th, I called our home teachers to let them know of the accident. That evening Gary and Bob were there to anoint Claigh with oil and give him a blessing of endurance and healing. Gary Meikle, one of our home teachers, is maintaining a fight with incurable lung cancer. He and his wife Jean are remarkable to say the least and have blessed us with such a sense of the possible when faced with the impossible. Gary serves with such determination and an inner strength form the Spirit that over comes the limitations of his physical body. The blessing brought comfort and peace.

On Sunday, just 2 days following Claigh's cave-fall, he rose early for his 7:30 a.m. High Council Meeting. I had had a difficult night and was sound asleep. As is in his generous nature, he did not waken me but attempted to get it together himself. He managed somehow to shave and was able to pull a shirt over his head, but there was no way for him to tie his shoes. Part way through the meeting, one of Claigh's fellow High Councilmen, Brother Jordan Jardine, noticed the untied shoes and asked, "Claigh, would you like me to tie your shoes for you?"

It touched Claigh's heart that Brother Jardine had even noticed something so small. What a simple expression of God's love for each and every one of us.

We are grateful!

Do small things with great love.
Mother Teresa

Later that afternoon, we enjoyed a relaxed dinner with the Meikles. They continue to bless our lives.

Monday afternoon, as I was leaving the house to get Claigh to the doctor for the casting of his broken radius, our dear home teaching friend from down the street, Bob Buchmiller, walked into our yard with a weed trimmer in hand. He had come to do our lawn for us. We had felt we could go another week but he insisted that it looked like it could get a little shaggy and he wanted to do it for us. He spent hours and left us in good shape for another two weeks. Bob and his wife Jackie have been dear friends ever since we moved here. During one of my lowest times with the chemo treatments, Jackie came and sat with me for a few hours one afternoon. Just her company when I myself wasn't good company at all made such a difference for me.

Today, one week later, Claigh is much improved. The pain in his sternum and left forearm have subsided greatly. He still wears a brace on his left arm to protect the healing tendons and muscles but has much greater use of his fingers. He is able to tie his shoes and button buttons again (albeit very slowly.) His leg abrasions are coming along. They were not too serious but cause some discomfort with the itching and healing process. Claigh does have annoyance with the cast on his right wrist but that will come to an end soon thanks to the amazing ability of the body to heal. He has been able to purchase a computer program that turns dictation into the written word so he is able to keep up his files for work as it will be some time before he is typing again. He thinks he will have tremendous use for this long term as he spends some time in the car traveling to visit with those he counsels.

Our family has been greatly blessed by Claigh's diligent efforts throughout the years to serve God in every way he can by serving God's children. It is true that you cannot out give our loving Heavenly Father nor even come close. His mercy and kindness never fails! He is a faithful God and will support our meager capacities to give and love in His way. There are many good souls who share this love for God and his children. We so appreciate the outpouring of your love in our behalf through words and actions. Your prayers for us are especially appreciated and have been answered in wondrous ways.

“God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another mortal that he meets our needs. Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other in the kingdom.”
President Spencer W. Kimball

Our July 8th Fun and Not So Fun Adventure . . .

2011-07-12T06:29:00.003-06:00

Our first weeks of July were such a delight with visits from the Sevy's, Baileys and Stalcups! How we love our wonderful sons-in-law and their thoughtful sacrifices to make these visits possible. I will write more of the time we had together later but due to requests, at this time I write of our July 8th experience:

Carey and kids had just left for Washington State and we had planned a day with the Sevy's and Stalcups to explore a lava tube cave north of the Rexburg area. It is known as the Civil Defense Cave as it was designated a shelter in case of missile attack during the cold war. It is so far from anything other than perhaps wolves and coyotes, I can't imagine who on earth would ever get to it as a shelter :D

At any rate, when we finally made the 25 minute drive over the last four mile stretch (a very rough red soil path they call a road), and arrived at the cave entrance, I knew we were definitely unprepared for the experience. Apparently there is a very interesting 1 1/2 mile hike through the tube that is very easily negotiable, however, the entrance is another matter altogether. I would never have made 1/2 a mile let alone the full length of the walk. I am just slowly regaining strength. I had concern as we saw the cave entrance. The rocky jags and gaps were really rough. I said "No toddlers, 8 month pregnant women or grandmothers on this one."

Surprise, surprise - no one listened to me as they all scrambled for the adventure ahead. Unfortunately, Claigh was not yet down to the entrance to back me up or hear my concern. Ash was already most of the way in when he got there and had one last move from a large boulder to another to be past the worst of the worst. There was about a three foot gap between the boulders. I couldn't see that area, just the tops of the bodies as they stood on the first of those two rocks.

As Claigh approached her, she reached out for his hands and said, "Help me get down." He took her hands, still unsure of the situation and without having really surveyed what was happening. As she went down, she missed the mark and fell a couple of feet further than expected. This pulled Claigh forward over the top of her. He did manage to have her settled before the forward motion took over for him. All I could see was Claigh's head go down first and his feet fly in the air behind him. It had the look of a long body dive into a pool. The screams and the sight were truly terrifying. While I could see him sail forward, where he was headed was hidden from my view. I knew I could lose him. For all I knew, he was flying head first into a jagged field of rock. As it turned out, he was going across the chasm onto a very large and quite smooth boulder that was angled up at about forty-five degrees.

Claigh said he had a quick thought, "Should I roll?" but knew instantly it would be best to go hands first and do all he could to keep his head up. He caught himself in push up position but the fall was pretty hard needless to say. (Thank goodness for his three to four workouts with weights every week!) He did bruise his sternum and was in extreme pain in both of his wrists and forearms. His right leg was pretty scraped up as well. It took him quite sometime before he could talk. I would say it was at least twenty five minutes before I knew he was "Okay" and they could help him up to get out of the cave.

Our Will (Ash's four year old) was pretty upset as he was right there and didn't like the blood on Grandpa's leg. He said, "I hate caves." I said, "Oh Will, caves are fun to explore. We just sometimes take a fall." I reminded him how when he learned to ride his two wheeler in the spring he sometimes fell and hurt his knee. He quickly pulled his shorts up and showed me his latest scar. We talked about how much he liked to ride his bike and that the few hurts were just a part of learning. I assured him that falls are a part of life. They can happen in a cave. They can happen at home. We just get back up and our bodies heal and we try again.

I wanted to get right back to town which would take us a good 30-40 minutes but everyone else decided a bit of a surface hike was in order! Trying to stay sane, I enjoyed walking close to the van to explore the miniature wild flowers that were tucked into the sage. With the extensive rain and snow pack this year the flowers are plentiful but you have to really look for them as they are very small and hidden. I found over ten different varieties but honestly I just wanted to be in the van on the way to x-ray equipment! (It's a woman thing.)

As we headed back into town, I began to make calls to find out which facilities were on our insurance while Claigh insisted he didn't need to see a doctor. (It's a man thing!)

Claigh's right wrist started to swell and he began to be agreeable to the fact that we were headed for x-rays. We got to Rexburg, switched into our car to head for the Urgent Care Center, and sent the rest on their way to the Taco Bus and Splash Park.

When the doctor first looked at the X-Rays, he thought both wrists were broken. They sent them to Idaho Falls for a special read by a radiologist who said no to the left wrist and definitely to the right. Claigh was splinted to stabilize the right wrist and allow for the swelling to go down. He did get a prescription for Lori-tab but we didn't have to fill it as he was able to manage the pain with Ibuprofen and aspirin.

Monday, we saw our family doctor for the casting of the right wrist. The break is in his radius just above his thumb joint.

Today, Tuesday the 12th, Claigh is sporting a blue cast. He has some pain in his sternum, his left wrist has improved remarkably from it's sprained condition and his leg scrapes are well on their way to full mend.

Claigh feels strongly that divine intervention kept his head up from injury. He has no strain in his neck or shoulder or back. With the upward angle of the rock he landed on, he can't imagine how he alone could have kept his head safe with a three foot downward trajectory onto an upward slanting boulder. We are very, very grateful!

Ashlee only suffered a very minor scrape under her one arm that didn't even draw blood. The baby is doing wonderfully and very anticipated. The Stalcup insurance doesn't cover ultra-sounds so they do not know if we are having a boy or girl. We are prepared for either just like when we had our children years ago. Ashlee is due August 21st but each of her children have been born 2 weeks early so it could be the 7th! Imagine that!!

August 7th is the day that Kes and Grandpa celebrate their birthdays and this year Kes is eight years old. We will gather at the reservoir in Soda Springs that Sabbath day for her baptism. Ashlee and Steve are hoping the baby will hold off until evening at least but as we all know babies have their own timing. She could actually deliver closer to her due date this time.

Life is very very good!

Long Overdue Update . . .

2011-06-30T05:44:00.004-06:00

This past few months has certainly presented me with challenges in regards to the therapy I am undergoing with the autoimmune disorder. The Chemo really takes me down and I find I am mostly in bed for the full four weeks I am on it. It makes me very weak and exhausted. My hair comes out by the handfuls every day in spite of my efforts to be careful. On the sides I was down to a few long strands on top covering a bit of fluff underneath and I had small hairs from breakage all over my head. Having such thick and coarse hair all of my life, this has been quite a shock to me. The new hair is white fluff like the down of a goose and it is very difficult to manage.

I am now completing my first Prednisone week for this round of treatment. As always, I start this part of the therapy with three days of infusion of 1000 mg of Solumedrol (IV Prednisone)in the infusion lab at the hospital. While on Chemo, I need weekly blood draws and labs. The best part of the Prednisone months is a break from all of that. I now am on 40 mg of Prednisone a day along with all of the other meds and necessary supplements. Can I just say I am so tired of taking pills? I change medications around the 21st of each month. The change over week from daily Prednisone to daily chemo is the toughest! Hopefully July 21st will be my last experience there!

It feels so good to be off of the Chemo for a bit. Melatonin has increased my ability to sleep in the night overcoming the wakefulness of the Prednisone therapy, and I actually have some energy. This is a real emotional boost as I am able to be up and doing! I sense the atrophy in my muscles (especially my legs) but the strength I have blesses me to be back into the joy of work and some accomplishment.

Our computer crashed last week loosing my completed address for Sunday. Claigh and I speak at a different congregation each month as a result of our church assignments. If we do our part, our Father Heaven sees us through and that is just what He did for me. I rose early Sunday morning and began again. A computer screen may go blank, the the sense of heart that fuels a testimony is ever there. The meeting lifted and inspired. Claigh's testimony was powerful. The youth speakers were well prepared - the music beautiful. Don't you just love the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Yesterday was a big day for me. - I had to face facts and have my hair cut very short. I sure do not like it and feel guilty for the sadness and loss I am experiencing. I miss myself. I miss people. I told Claigh that this is how I thought I would look at eighty. What would I do without his love and devotion through these difficulties? How could I manage without the sure knowledge of the love and mindfulness of my Heavenly Father and his Son Jesus? The Spirit guides me and inspires me to greater faith and testimony.

With my reemerging strength, I have spent two sessions in the yard planting flowers and cleaning up the beds. Last evening we started late as we went to purchase a camera for Claigh's birthday. (Ours broke the day before Alyssa's wedding. We decided not to wait for his August celebration of life as we want pictures of the grand kids coming for a visit soon.) Back to the yard. - It is suffering from my neglect but Claigh again has been wonderful. With all of his usual business and dealing with my situation, he has managed to keep things looking pretty good. That man is amazing!

The air was crisp and clean last night - the soil moist in my hands - the flowers in shock due to the fact that I hadn't watered them before I began my trek to the beauty parlor. I am in hopes they will make it but the reality of the final arrival of summer may make it a bit too hot for them. We also planted a Peony last week that is looking pretty wind beaten and so we will move it hopefully tonight. I miss my large flowerbeds in Virginia! Idaho Falls presents quite a challenge for my green, pink, red, yellow, white, purple, orange thumb :D Claigh and I didn't make it back into the house until 10:30 p.m. It was fantastic for me - perhaps a bit on the late side for Claigh!

As for treatment results? My protein dump has gone from over 18000 to just over 3000. Hooray!! And my cholesterol is down from 550 to 320. Dr. Haderlie is hopeful that we can discontinue the Prednisone/Chemo treatments the end of September. I am right there with him! The longest I will go will be until February.

Many have been supportive through this ordeal. Truly God does watch out for us through the prayers and kindnesses of others. Thank-you so very very much. Honestly, discouragement does get me at times but for the most part I have been keenly aware of the bounteous blessings in my good life. My heart cries out for those I know who are in much greater distress than I can even imagine. It is interesting that once again, guilt floods my soul when I consider the plight of others around me who suffer greatly for loss of health and loved ones. My situation has been difficult but I feel quite taken care of and nurtured through it all. I have been blessed beyond what I deserve.

Cameron and Family - Kidney Donation - March 11, 2011

2011-03-21T13:44:00.000-06:00

This Stewart Family photo was taken August 2007.

Some of you have asked "Who is Larissa?" She is the young mom who received Cameron's kidney.

Larissa belongs to the same congregation as Cameron and Collins. Her kidneys were in complete failure and she was facing dialysis. You can imagine what this would be for a young mom. None of her family was a match. Cam and Collins had a strong sense when praying for Larissa's healing, that perhaps Cameron would be a match. The thoughts persisted.

Soon Cameron began the process of health evaluation and matching procedures. This took a great deal of time. During this period, Cam and Collins began to prepare for the eventuality that their inspiration would prove accurate. Cameron and her wonderful business partner Tracy, run three preschool classes in a school room in Cameron's home. Provisions needed to be made for Cameron's absence from administration duties and teaching. More importantly, the needs of their own four children still at home had to be addressed. Every thing kept falling into place regarding those concerns and each new concern that arose. Once it was determined that Cameron and Larissa were a perfect match, things moved very quickly. This is why so few in the family knew about it ahead of time. Those in the immediate family were dealing with things in very short order. Cameron says there are many others who she believes would have done the same thing. She was just THE one who do it because of the miracle of the match.

As a mom myself and knowing what it is to raise a family, I had concerns about Cameron putting herself in this position. I expressed that but we fall back on the truth that Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers don't we? I grew to have confidence in the decision that Cam and Collins made. God often doesn't answer our prayers in the way we expect and in this case, the answers came so out of the realm of my thinking! It has been tough to miss being there with Cameron at this time but again God provided..

Collins is the 2nd of nine children in his family. His mom is a remarkable woman. She has worked for years and years in the cub scout and scouting program and is a calming and loving influence. The Stewart children and Cameron are well watched over while Collins works. AND the kids love her activity and fun.

Cam and Collins' congregational family is really stepping in with assistance for both of these young women. Meals have been provided and cleaning crews have come in to do whatever they can. Cam and Collins also have great relationships with their neighbors in their little cul-de-sac. They too are involved. Tracy and another teacher they have hired are managing the school while Cameron recovers. There are many who have given what they have to make this beautiful miracle possible. We are the hands of heaven aren't we all? AND now two moms are able to fully care for their children!

Isaac is our little one with some real challenges. He has some disabilities that have been hard to diagnose. There are signs of Aspergers and it seems that this most fits the bill but then again there are ways that it does not fit. He is a brilliant boy, and Cam and Collins have had their hands full dealing with his realities. Interestingly he is very loving and yet during his difficult moments, is a challenge beyond anything else I have experienced. There are times when fear and frustration are just overwhelming to him. This is always true for this child, not something new to this particular stress. Your prayers in his behalf are greatly appreciated.

Isaac's wit is a true joy. We have many fun family stories. Once when they were visiting, he and Grandpa walked the mile to church to help him expend some energy and have a more positive worship experience. It was a perfectly beautiful summer day. As they approached the church doors, it began to hail heavily. As they ran for the doors, Isaac stopped up short and exclaimed, "Oh my heck! What is that white stuff?" He plays a very special part in our family and is deeply loved and appreciated for the perspectives he brings. He is five and doing well in his school with special aide assistance to watch over and keep him safe. With his skills as an escape artist and he can be in serious trouble very quickly for one so vulnerable.

Tristan (Collins son from former marriage) is in college, Jonah is fifteen, Gideon eight, Isaac five and Felicity (alllllllll girl) is three. This is one dear family!

Another Week - Family News

2011-03-16T16:48:00.003-06:00

First Cameron, My kidney specialist told me that to be the donor of a kidney is a very major surgery and much more challenging to recover from than to recover from the surgery of the recipient. To get the kidney, they have to go in from the front. The kidney is located quite high in the back of the body. The internal stress on her body as they moved everything around to get at the kidney causes tremendous soreness to overcome and heal, let alone the trauma of the actual surgical procedure to disconnect the organ. Dr. Haderlie was one of the doctors consulted by Cameron's doctors to be sure that what I am experiencing is not hereditary. The first picture is of Cameron and the youngest of her five. It was taken this past Christmas. The next picture is the gift of life Cameron gave. The doctor is holding the kidney while the nurse snapped the shot.

Cameron returned home yesterday at noon. Before she left the hospital, she got to see Larissa who had received her kidney. It is hoped that Larissa will be released today. Her creatinine levels are now better than Cameron's! We pray for successful reception of the kidney.

Cameron said the ride home was very rough and exhausting. She sounds as weak as a kitten but is genuinely doing well for the reality of what she is dealing with. Collins and the children are supportive and very good to her. Five year old Isaac is really feeling the stress of having his mother gone for a bit and could use some extra prayers in his behalf. Felicity is still not fully recovered from RSV and pneumonia but she is not contagious or running a fever any more - just some residual lung weakness. Gideon and Jonah peek in to have short visits with their mom which has been very nurturing for her.

Collins' mother Sheila is with the family through the next while. She is wonderful with the children and brings a tremendous calming effect in the home. She is also a master organizer and just a delightful soul. Her smile is beautifully reflected in her eyes which tend to light up a room. What a blessing she is! Cameron also has an incredible support team through her ward family and neighbors and friends.

When Cameron called today, she said she is now feeling some return of strength which strengthens her hopefulness.

Me: Thanks for your patience girls in getting this information. It is just too much to say over and over again AND I had a pretty down day physically when I got home from the doctor yesterday. I was a bit revived last evening and very fortunate to attend my book club with my dear friend Pilar who drove me. I love the club. It is such a diverse group of women with varying views, likes and dislikes. It is intellectually stimulating and there are lots of laughs. - Just what I needed! As the book had been set in Afghanistan, our hostess, Edie served homemade scones and non-caffeine Green Tea. It was wonderful!! And she sent a scone home with me for Claigh, who returned late from Driggs. I am so grateful for Pilar's help in getting me there, up the steps, securely seated for such a delightful evening and safely back home again by 8:30 p.m. The past four days for me have been very difficult and this lent a bit of normalcy to my life. There is nothing like time with a great group of women.

Today was highlighted with a call from a friend who was out and about with her children. She wanted to know if I needed her to pick up anything for me. These are the kind of good souls I am surrounded with. Thanks so much Jeanne. Calls from Cameron, Ashlee and Sara just topped it all off so beautifully. I love my girls!

Medical Update: My doctor's appointment yesterday again left me with deep gratitude for such a diligent and thorough doctor. I can't say enough about that! Again, a few days prior to my visit, he had called his teaching hospital which is on the front lines of the latest and best techniques in treating this immune disorder to clarify our direction and question things that were unusual to the way things have been done in the past. EXCELLENT! What more could you ask. He was completely prepared for "next step instruction" to me, having dates and schedule in place. He writes it all down for me to bring home with me. Every question I have he is thorough in answering. At times he will pause and think through before he responds. I literally feel my prayers in his behalf are answered as he determines a possible solution or has a new thought.

My protein levels on my 24 hour catch were 13,000 grams. I was excited as that was lower than the last 16,000. He smiled and said that is really not an improvement but could be a mere reflection of how much protein I had consumed the proceeding day. He reminded me it is really too soon to see any improvement and told me people get concerned when their protein dump is 300 grams. My cholesterol continues to be over 500 with most of that LDL. I am sorry, I did not get the actual numbers - too much else to take in. My blood pressure continues excellent at I believe 107 over 72. My kidney function continues to be excellent except for the one glitch. There is still no damage and once the chemo and steroids begin taking full effect, the possibility of damage will be arrested for the time.

Dr. Haderlie felt it important to add Statin Drugs to my allergy list. He said the reactions are too dangerous, can cause permanent damage and I should never try them again. We had ended having tried three Statins adding CoQ10 to try and overcome the side effects to no avail. I am tolerating the Zetia very well. When my labs were done a week ago, I had only been on them 1 day so the result is not reflected in those labs. He said the Zetia will not bring things down like the Statins but it is the best we can do.

My right ankle is completely normal and the swelling in my left ankle minimal to where it had been. (I wore regular church shoes Sunday :D) I have very little leg swelling now. On the Statins, the swelling was completely gone for about 4 days, Dr. Haderlie said it is possible the swelling reduction was actually due to the 3 days of Prednisone Infusions I began this whole process with.
The Prednisone has made life very difficult for me. I went a week with only 3 hours sleep in each twenty-four. When I started taking the Ambien, I bumped up to 3 1/2 hours. Needless to say, I have become weaker and weaker due to this. Unlike the Statin side effect, I am very steady on my feet and clear thinking - just extremely weak due to physical exhaustion. I also asked him about the risk of becoming addicted to the Ambien. He said it is possible but as my need is not psychological in nature, his experience has been that as Prednisone effects subside, my need for the Ambien is likely to subside as well.

It is amazing to be extremely fatigued and unable to sleep. In addressing this issue, Dr. Haderlie acknowledged it is a part of the deal. When asked about the anxiety aspects, I told him I really didn't feel anxiety. I genuinely have a sense of peace. However, when there is something that I feel passionately about, I am way over the top intense. I HATE THAT!!!! Claigh, Ashlee and Alyssa have experienced this "intensity" and have been kindly patient with me. I also get teary way to easily.

As we talked, Dr. Haderlie took a pause to think and then offered that sometimes a difficult side effect of the Airprazaam he prescribed is that it knocks people out. He said there are those who just cannot wake up when they take it. We decided it may be a good idea to take it and see if it boosts may ability to sleep. INSPIRED! I took it twice yesterday (I can take it three times a day - just not at the same time as the Ambien.) Last night I slept just 10 minutes shy of 7 hours!!!!!!! What a relief!. I will continue taking the Airprazaam at breakfast and at lunch time. I think it will take some time to regain the rest I have lost but at least I am hopeful this last 1 1/2 weeks before I take a Prednisone break will not be wide eyed and wild. I also have had a less emotional day today. That makes me happy for my family :D

My last Prednisone for this round will be March 23rd. (Happy Birthday Ashlee :D) On the 24th, I begin Chemo-Therapy. I will go off of Prednisone cold turkey. The Prednisone is preparing my body to maximize the chemo's ability to do it's thing.

Dr. Haderlie tells me he feels I have an excellent chance of feeling very good on the chemo. It will be taken three times a day by mouth for 30 days. He said the challenge with chemo is all internal and at that point I will have to have weekly labs. NOT good for my small veins! They use children's needles on me because of the difficulty in getting my blood and in an effort to protect the veins as much as possible. He will monitor my labs each week and call me immediately in if needed. He is going on his first vacation in forever in three weeks and will keep track of what is going on during that time. He made sure I have his cell phone to call if needed. I WILL NOT CALL UNLESS IT IS A MAJOR EMERGENCY! He can count on it. Doctors have wives and children and must be respected for their family needs as far as I am concerned.

On April 23rd, I will begin the heavy dose Prednisone infusions (I can't remember but it is something like 1600 mg.) for three days in a row at the hospital again and then back to 30 days of 40 mg of Prednisone a day. I am not looking forward to that BUT I have such confidence through my prayers that Dr. Haderlie is right on in his treatment plan and I will NOT complain!! I am determined but alas, it isn't easy.

Again, Dr. Haderlie reminded me that this treatment is not a cure but has been effectively used to stop damage to the kidneys, protecting them while the body rights itself. He has a patient he has worked with for three years whose challenges were very similar to mine. Last week she was able to be completely removed from all medications and her body is functioning perfectly. Her kidneys are intact and the immune system has straightened out. I have the advantage of three more years of development of these therapies. HOPE!!!

I now have triple filtered water, and not unusual for me eat lots of organic vegetables and high quality protein. Beans continue to be a genuine source of strength for me. I eat only good fish, antibiotic/hormone free beef, buffalo, and chicken in small servings. My grains are the grains I love best - whole grain and seedy although I do enjoy a piece of Cibatta bread with melted white cheddar every now and then. I do not add salt to anything and have adjusted nicely to that. Good dairy has been critical in managing the extreme hunger pains. I stay away from all simple carbohydrates. They send me into a hunger rage!!! Sometimes a segment of Cadbury's Fruit and Nut bar really gives me a treat and seems to not bother me. A piece of plain cheesecake also seems to set well for a treat.

We have worked an appropriate supplement program for me (I have become such a pill popper - Who'd have thought?) and fine tune it as needed. I am committed to giving my body the best chance to work this through and fight. - Dumb VIRUS!

I love you all so much. Your support is appreciated. Happy Happy Week To You!

Marching Forward 2011

2011-03-12T09:56:00.005-07:00

Cameron has given a great gift. A good friend close to her age was in desperate need of a kidney and none of her family members was a match. Cameron was a match and she determined she was the one to give the gift. The surgery is a major surgery. It appears all prayers were answered with the best of outcomes. Both Cameron and the recipient have come through beautifully. I am so grateful for Cameron's ever supportive husband Collins and for his mother Shelia who is there to care for the children while their mother is in the hospital and recovering. It is difficult to not be where I really want to be. Cameron was thoughtful to call yesterday morning on her way to the hospital and again late last night when she made it out of recovery. It was a comfort to hear her voice.

We are excitedly awaiting our newest little girl. Sara and Jared are such a great parent team. It is a joy to watch their caring and loving nurture of their boys. A girl is really going bring some sparkle to an already delightful family.

Steven had a good visit with Dr. Biddulf and found he needs ACL surgery. This throws a chink into the plans he and Alyssa had to join the USAF this August. With Steven's insurance in Virginia, he and Alyssa will fly "home" as soon as his BYUI trimester ends in April for the surgery and immediate recovery. They will return to Idaho a few days late for the beginning of his last trimester and his continued recovery. With this, Steven will be kept from even applying to the Air Force until at least a full year past the surgery. YOUCH! Life has a way of throwing us some curve balls! It will be exciting to see how the Lord leads them along.

Claigh took Friday off to help me get to an appointment to have my hair cut. With the hair loss and the lack of health, I have felt more and more haggard looking. This is not a good thing for the spirit. After all kind of efforts to do something, I have accepted the fact that short for now is best. The girl gave me a very good and simple cut. It is the cut I had my high school senior pictures taken with. How's that for a blast from the past? I also had her do a color treatment (not changing my hair color at all.) It was a clear treatment she felt would strengthen the hair strands and give some shine. It worked! That makes me quite happy.

We also took Alyssa and met up with Ashlee and the kids in Pocatello, a “meet in the middle” place for us. Ashlee has struggled physically with her pregnancy (due in August) and the "Greg and Will “jinks” have added to the difficulties. They are such great boys but ALL BOY. The two of them can really cook up some trouble. With all of the kids home Fridays through Sunday and pretty much in the house the whole time, the weekends can be very long for her. Steve has been good support, getting the kids into work crews in the evenings to set things straight and getting supper on but those days can be very long for a mom with five just the same. Thankfully, Ashlee's stomach is settling and she is starting to feel better now she is entering her fourth month. The warming weather will help also with the children having more outdoor time. While in Pocatello, Claigh took the kids to a play place for about four hours while I got my hair cut and Ashlee, Alyssa & I did the Costco thing and went out for some Mexican lunch. Ashlee left Pocatello pretty exhausted but at least I hope it was a good break for her. AND hopefully the kids got some good energy out.

The Bailey's are our family in the midst of the storm experiencing a bit of calm. (Don't hold your breath! This is life after all!!) It is good to see so many blessings in the midst of a challenging time. I never cease to be amazed at the love of God that surrounds if we have eyes to see and hearts to feel. We are blessed.

Managing Prednisone Crazies!

2011-03-11T14:43:00.001-07:00

I am really struggling with the Prednisone crazies. It is hard to feel your body and soul so revved up and not be able to settle it down. I had two nights of only three hours sleep after two very frantic days. By yesterday I was a bit on the emotional side. Last night I took the narcotic sleeping aid that the doctor prescribed and slept from around 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. It is hard because I woke feeling much more settled but had that 6:30 a.m. Prednisone looming before me. I take Prednisone a.m. and p.m. Two more weeks before I have a month break taking chemo. Who knew chemo would be a relief?

I have had four severe hunger pain break throughs. All in all four days out of fourteen is not that bad I guess. My focus needs to be on the 10 days I managed to keep things a bit on an even keel and be grateful! Now that the steroid is building in my system however, it is more and more difficult. I have learned to really rely on healthy fats, eating an avocado a day and taking fish oil. These and dairy products seem to do a better job stabilizing my appetite than anything else.

On Thursday, for my 10:30 a.m. snack I prepared some yummy fresh pineapple. - BIG mistake!! I have learned that any hit of sugar like that sends me off the deep end. No more pineapple for me when I am in a Prednisone month. I had already completely done away with “refined sugary anything” but the fruit and juice can take their toll too. It is best to have fruit or juice after a good meal with proteins and fats.

The ravenous hunger is truly overwhelming. I tell myself that I have had what I need as far as food but it is impossible to get away from the extreme drive that says I need more to eat. For the most part, I resist but it is genuinely unnerving. The best thing is for me to get out of Dodge and go do something that distracts as best as possible. Worst of all however, are the feelings of frenzy. I feel like my heart is pounding so hard and I feel very jagged. I do not like this at all.

I will set up an appointment with a nutritionist next week to fine tune my efforts to do all I can to promote immune system and kidney health during this reprieve from the assault on the kidneys. I pray Heavenly Father will continue to guide me and the health care providers for the best of chance to beat this. I had my labs this week and will see Dr. Haderlie again on Tuesday. Our third attempt at a high quality Statin drug failed. I just cannot take them. I am now taking Zetia and seem to be managing it quite well. It will not be as effective but it is something.

I was sad to find that my appointment this week coincides with my ward Relief Society's TLC (Temple - Lunch and Conversation.) That is one of my favorite activities of the month. I may be finished at the doctor in time to go and eat lunch with the sisters. If so, I will try to do a session following lunch on my own. The time in the temple gives me such a sense of peace and well being.

The strength of my church family has been one of my best of blessings. The dear women in the ward are so generous and kind. I had two meals loving prepared for Claigh and I this week. Jamie Jensen is a Stew Goddess!! That was so very very good. and Robyn Whitworth made us a wonderful chicken dinner following a very difficult day for her family. Tamara Clark brought LiElle for a sweet visit one afternoon. Tamara had come across a bottle of herb seasoning without even a pinch of salt. She bought it for me. I am overwhelmed with how beautiful and thoughtful these busy young moms are. It just makes my heart smile to see children blessed with such beautiful moms.

The one who bears the greatest burden through this time of trial has to be Claigh. It is he for whom I am most deeply grateful. He continues to amaze me with his patience and goodness. He is mindful of my needs and often sacrifices his own. It isn't easy going through this emotional roller-coaster ride with me. Truly he is my greatest “people” blessing and beyond my deserving. I want to beat this for him!

All in all, I am very grateful to be up and going strong again. Those months where I was so down physically were taking a bit of an emotional toll. I appreciate the strength in my legs to stand and walk and the usual clarity of my thinking again. As for the Prednisone Crazies . . . This too will pass!

Me Again - Update

2011-03-04T10:09:00.001-07:00

Thanks for allowing me to update without lengthy explanations over the phone . . . It isn't great to go over and over and over it all verbally :) and writing it allows me to more accurately express the situation. Verbally - moment to moment can shade the overall truth.

Yesterday was tough again but for tough, I must say, I am very blessed. The weakness was overwhelming. Thankfully this does not define my every moment of every day. However, it did mean my hopes for Relief Society last night were dashed. That is the honestly worst aspect of this fight. I am so flaky! I miss people!! I need to get out or burst!!! I constantly deal with weakness but manage very well for the most part. A visit from Steven and Alyssa provided a wonderful respite. I lay on the couch, they play games and laugh and challenge one another. It was good for Claigh to have some game time too.

For the first time since last July, I have two ankles that will fit into any of my shoes. (I have been restricted to one pair of sling Reems for months!) I also am able to pick up my feet and stand stable. Also, the new Stain is not impacting me negatively. I am so grateful to you Marissa for telling me of the need to take CoQ10 while on the Statin. You have made such a positive difference for me. I am thankful for your medical training and know your family and patients are blessed for your diligence.

I am learning to really be in tune with my body processing food. I find that it is unwise to go longer than 2 1/2 hours without eating something good. It may just be a light sodium multi-grain cracker with white cheddar or two OR an avocado but I need to be sure to stay on top of that if I do not want to fade away. I am also discovering how good salt free can taste! Who would have thought? When Dr. Haderlie first told me that he thoroughly enjoyed his eggs with no salt, I couldn't believe it. It is TRUE!! I have learned the real threats that come along with the high sodium intake in America.

When the doctor warned me of the challenges this treatment would bring with appetite, diabetes and irritability, I prayerfully came back to my long time study of health and nutrition. I take two Tablespoons of Nordic Fish Oil each day, an Omega 6 every other day, and usually eat an avocado a day. This healthy fat keeps me satiated and I have had no appetite surge. I also am back to a healthier regard for sweets! I have actually surmised that it is possible the rise in diabetes in America could be related not only to the high consumption of simple carbohydrates but also related to the lack of healthy fats in the diet. In this first completed week of treatment, I have dropped 11 pounds.

I actually began to format this "sweets/fats" line of thinking over the years I saw my father diet and do the "low fat" thing and yet consistently come up against his ever increasing weight. Dad was a strong man with a tremendous will and he was always starving himself to become "healthy." I am confident that the focus on pounds in the obesity battle which rages in our society is the completely wrong focus! I get leery of "way out there" or "extreme" diets as well. Good whole food in line with the Word of Wisdom is truly the way to go!! When we feed our bodies right, they have greatest opportunity to respond with the health and strength we need and we feel satisfied. My girls remember how strong I was against any "fat-free" or "diet" foods coming into my house when I raised them. It is amazing that I allowed myself to get away from this understanding for a time. Mother's give your children whole milk! (unless of course they have lactose intolerance as one of mine did :D)

I take my Calcium/D/Magnesium spread out over my three main meals. I am confident this aides in satiety as well as irritability issues.

More on the irritability and sleep issues - Of course you are going to be irritable if you are not sleeping. It is a fact that while on these high doses of steroids, if I do not do something, I will not sleep. (I had only 3 hours of sleep during the first 36 hours of treatment.) Dr. Haderlie prescribed a narcotic sleeping pill for me. I filled the prescription for "just in case" but as I read through the realities of that particular medication, I decided to follow his other suggestion that I might try an over the counter medication. I prayerfully decided to give Unisom a try. I use the Unisom that is safe for pregnant women. - Success - AND not as harsh on my body. I am constantly thankful for the guidance of the spirit in these decisions. Those of you who know me best, know I am NOT about taking pills. This decision has been quite the departure for me but the right way to go. I sleep. I do not feel tension. I am not teary.

Tamara - the fish dinner was absolutely delicious! I must get your salsa recipe. I have felt so badly to have any of you bring me food. Claigh and I can manage very well as it is just the two of us. Your offers are beyond generous but most important to me personally has been the kindness and love that you have shared. It has also been wonderful for Claigh to end a very full day with something loving prepared that is nutritious and tasty.

I enjoyed hearing your voice yesterday Sylvia and having a good laugh. Jean, your thoughtful check-ins are so very appreciated and the creamed peas & potatoes really hit the spot. To my beautiful daughters - What can I say. - I am a very blessed mom.

Kevin - Thanks for the thoughtful email. I agree. That being said, for now this treatment is right. It is giving me time. Further damage is stopped and I have time to do the study and implement efforts necessary to give myself the best possible outcome. This treatment is not a cure but it has the best record of success in giving a person's body the opportunity to right itself (30% chance.) I am going to continue to study, pray and do all in my power to follow the Spirit by providing my body with all it needs to recover full health.

I have dreams of a great future on this earth, teaching and loving children around the world. People are my passion. I love to teach. I am confident the Lord is mindful of me and will use me to His best advantage if I am willing to follow whatever path he leads me down. I pray to do my best and leave to God the rest.

A Sadness . . .

2011-02-26T09:55:00.001-07:00

I received my formal release from the temple this week. This is a bit hard to take but the reality is that with every thing considered, it was very difficult to be reliable on such a stringent and demanding schedule. The biggest challenge for me emotionally is the loss of activity. I am still able to attend the temple every week with some of my Relief Society Sisters.

My stake music calling is such a blessing for me. I have many good hours to work at my snail pace and with this calling I can go to it when I have strength and energy. When needed, I can be sure to set things up to protect the energy needed. This week and last of course have been exceptions to that with the downturn and start of the new treatments but Dr. Haderlie has assured me I will feel pretty good during the chemo months and there are things I can do to manage the challenges of the steroid months. I have hope.

The Fire Saga, Impact on a Loving Spouse and Miracles . . .

2011-02-25T21:49:00.000-07:00

Prior to Steriod/Chemo treatments:

What a deal! When I was on Lipitor, I was suffering from some poor thinking and weakened muscles. It took a bit to realize it was the Lipitor that was causing it. I was heating coconut oil to make some Navajo Taco Fry Bread. (It shouldn't have been that difficult to be safe!)

1st mistake: I left the lid on the pan.

2nd mistake: I walked away and forgot it.

3rd mistake: when I came back to the kitchen and saw the steam pouring out from under the lid, I removed the lid!

I know better!!

The flames were shooting 4 - 5 feet into the air and were in the way of the cup board where I keep the baking soda. Claigh was napping on the couch in the front room. I yelled for him and he ran in, picking up the pan and heading for the door. He had only stockings on his feet. When he got to the door, he had to unlock it with one hand, holding the pan with the other. He tipped the pan slightly spilling some of the hot grease on the living room carpet and redirecting the flames so that the inside of his index finger was badly burned. I was shuffling behind him (very weak and insecure legs) with the baking soda. He got the pan outside. Shortly afterward I caught up with the soda. Our hood/microwave took a beating and there was some slight damage to the cupboard above it.

We feel very blessed that Claigh did not burn his feet or legs. We feel very blessed that we did not set the whole house on fire! We feel very blessed that Claigh's finger has healed nicely with the help of the doctor and friends.

Lessons learned: Do not make Fry Bread when you are not able to be on top of your game mentally. Do not have the baking soda in a cupboard that could be blocked by flames. Have a fire extinguisher under the sink ready to go.

The added stress of my illness has taken a toll on Claigh. He has had a battle with his second case of shingles. His first shingles experience was over 25 years ago in Missouri.

What a painful and debilitating attack! Thankfully Claigh was early to recognize the symptoms and was into the doctor for an immediate anti-viral. This weakened the severity of the attack although he did miss a full week of work. Perhaps this provided a very needed rest from work but I am not confident the pain involved is worth it at all.

Have I ever mentioned how I love the temple? When in the temple with a friend, on Claigh's worst week, a simple thought entered my mind. It was brief and quick but thankfully the quiet and peace of the moment let me hear clearly.

A few days earlier, friends had recommended that we add oil of lavender to the regime of treatments for Claigh's burn. His finger was well on the way to healing but he needed some help regaining suppleness to the skin. Lavender oil is calming and so why not? (The price of lavender oil is not so calming.) The progress of the heal quickened noticeably.

Back to the temple, "Claigh needs to use the lavender oil on his shingles." That was it. Quick. Unrelated to anything else that was happening. But clear.

Claigh's pain from the shingles was just really working up to a fury at that time. He had just received a powerful medication for nerve end pain that was taking a toll on his functionality. When I came home and told him I felt we needed to use the oil on his shingles, he immediately felt it was a right idea.

Honestly - the answer to prayers is an amazing testament that we are loved by a perfect Father. Claigh had only taken one of the vamped up pain medications. The lavender oil soothed and managed the rest. He was back to work the following Monday.

Through it all, we are blessed!

Forward . . .

2011-02-24T21:45:00.001-07:00

I'm with you Harry on the natural health solutions but in this case I am very thankful for the miracles of modern medicine. This is an auto-immune disorder and is very dangerous. My Dr. and I have tried less intensive solutions but things have progressively worsened in spite of our best efforts. Now is the time to really hit hard. I have hope that I will fall into the 30% who have complete remission. The bad news - my protein loss and cholesterol are way over the critical levels. (high risk protein loss is 8 grams - I am over 16 grams, my cholesterol is over 550 and climbing with 444 of that LDL. My triglycerides are 116 as well - Whew!) The good news, Dr. Haderlie says I am so healthy in all other respects that it is very unusual for someone with such a serious disorder. This is due to my taking such good care of myself physically over the years.

My thinking is clearer now that I am off of the two Statins that caused me trouble and led to the fire incident. Claigh's burn has healed nicely and he has overcome the worst of the shingles he was battling. I have to start a new statin next week in hopes of getting the cholesterol under control a bit. Non-flushing Niacin didn't do a thing for me. As I said the liver challenges are not related to diet but are a direct result of the immune system attack on my kidneys. We are hopeful I can tolerate this statin without muscle loss and mental confusion.

I had a great afternoon yesterday followed by a very difficult night and tough morning this morning. I struggled with a severe headache and bright-eyed sleeplessness. Tonight I will take a sleep aid - for me that is huge as I have an aversion to medicating myself but it is necessary if I want to keep my sanity.

The nurses at the infusion lab are wonderful. I am so thankful. It was recommended that I try Pepsi or Coke for the caffeine to combat headaches. OUCH! I have decided that instead of that I will do caffeinated Green Tea. Green Tea is great for kidneys and I have been using decaf for a while. By going this route, I will get the caffeine but not have the sugar/carbonation hit I would from the sodas. I could hardly raise my head with the pain this morning. I pray for inspiration as to the best solutions with the fewest side effects. My stomach has already been feeling the stress of the medications.

Carol was kind to get me to and from the hospital. That was a smart choice. I really wasn't fit for driving. What would I do without such good souls who are so willing to help out.

This afternoon is better again. I have managed the laundry and ironing. (Claigh's 7 white shirts a week habit over the years keeps me busy :D) It feels so good to get some things done. It does something positive for my psyche when I can work a bit. Claigh will do the grocery shopping on his way home from work tonight. Another friend is bringing dinner. I really appreciate this as it gives Claigh something tasty at the end of a very busy work days.

I missed you Alyssa and hope you get over your bug soon. I am still hoping to be strong enough Saturday to share the Julie Beck address with you.

Progress?

2011-02-23T09:37:00.001-07:00

Thanks for the yummy chicken and baked potato Jean and Gary! Just right!! It was so kind and very appreciated. Thanks for the flowers JoAnn and Terry. You are two of the dearest souls! AND an especially heartfelt thanks for all of your prayers and concern. I am so blessed and grateful.

I had mixed things up a bit. There was just too much information to keep it all straight. The infusion today was a steroid, Solumedrol. This will continue with 1000 mg IV daily for each of the initial three days. I will then start on high dose Prednisone by mouth for thirty days followed by thirty days of a chemo treatment, Cytoxan followed by thirty days of Prednisone etc. This will continue for six months with hopes that I will see results by then. The longest they can take this treatment is one year. I have a 30% chance of by body throwing off this assault against my kidneys.

Following the treatment at the hospital, I still felt lousy but good enough to pick up prescriptions and the very needed Peppermints at the drug store. I also got crab SUBWAY. This afternoon was a bit rough as I experienced extreme fatigue. The metalic taste in my mouth from the treatment is AWFUL! I had hoped it would go away but alas it seems it will be a part of my life for the next few days. Thank-goodness for Reed's Extra Ginger Ginger Beer and Cherry Ginger-Ale. Doublemint Gun seems to distract me for a while too.

While the last four days were quite rough and this morning started out very tough, when I came out of my deep sleep again at 4:00 this afternoon, I felt better than I have for a week. I still have a slight headache and the nasty taste but I have strength in my legs again and clear thinking. My right ankle is normal and the left one smaller than it has been in months. That IV carried a powerful punch. It makes me hopeful. I am sorry for rambling - so much to process.

My friend Carol Stewart will get me to and from the hospital the next two days. Thanks for your generous and kind willingness to help me Carol. I did well today, but with all of the new medications starting today, the warnings are that I should give some time to see my reactions before I drive. I believe in responding to cautions. I don't want to be undone on the road even if it is just a short 5 minute drive.

Love to you all, Mom/Wendy

Tough News For Me This Week . . .

2011-02-22T15:02:00.000-07:00

This past week has been a bit overwhelming for me. I knew what was coming but held out hope that it wouldn't be.

The day after I had my labs done, the doctor's office staff called me with alarm. My cholesterol was 550 (444 of that LDL.) I had a very severe reaction to the Statin I was on and had to be taken off of it. I have reacted badly to the second Statin as well. We are going to try a third as Dr. Haderlie is afraid I will suffer heart damage on top of all the kidney and liver trouble I am in. If this Statin doesn't work we will have to try something less effective in managing the cholesterol. The cholesterol is a direct result of the kidney challenges I am having - not at all related to diet.

Also, my protein loss remains very high. While I have felt better as a result of the medication, there is no improvement - only decline in my ability to process protein and provide what is needed to my blood.

This morning Dr. Haderlie told me we are out of easy options and it was time to pull out the heavy artillery. While we had hoped to give the efforts we were making until the end of March, it is critical that the time table be moved up. (I am so sorry Sara.) I left the office with many cautions and warnings and seven prescriptions. I will be on a schedule rotating between a month of Chemo Therapy and a month of very heavy steroid treatments. We had hoped to avoid this as these treatments bring some pretty heavy risks and yet to do nothing would be worse.

The Chemo I will have is not the same as the one used for say Lung Cancer. I will probably actually feel pretty good the months I am on Chemo. I will not loose my hair. If I did not tell you, you would not even know I was having Chemo. Dr. Haderile said the big risk is that it will shut down my immune system. (My problem is that my immune system is attacking my kidneys and if left unchecked, it will kill them.) We want to stop this attack while I still have good kidneys to save. He also stressed that while I am in this treatment program, I will have to be extra cautious staying away from any one with the slightest cold or infection. He said he knew this would impact the contact I would be able to have with grandchildren but it would be important that we all take things very seriously. Church attendance will be Okay but again I will need to be extra careful and trust others to be mindful as well.

The high doses of steroids are going to be a big challenge. The harshest of the steroids are the ones that have proven successful in battling this illness. I will have a ravenous appetite and could be challenged with more weight gain. He said if I am mindful of this, I can monitor my eating by watching the calories. The natural feeling of "being full" will not help because the steroids interfere with that signal. Even with the care I take with my eating, I will get very puffy.

Dr. Haderlie had so much to say, I am really overwhelmed. On these other side affects, I can't remember which are caused by the Chemo and which are caused by the steroids:

1. I will be at a higher risk for developing diabetes. This is a shock as heredity already puts me at a very high risk. I "think" this is related to the steroids. On the months I take the steroids, I should be extra careful diet wise as far as sugars go. I will have to clarify with the doctor if it is the steroid months or the chemo months that this applies.

2. The treatments put me at a higher risk of developing cancer.

3. My bones are going to take a hit. I will need to be on double the recommended doses of Vitamin D and Calcium to try and counteract the impact of the treatments.

4. The lining of my stomach will take a hit. I now have a prescription for an acid medication to counteract that.

5. I could suffer with insomnia. I have a prescription for sleep medication if that becomes an issue.

Because of all of the risks involved, I will now have the blood & urine tests and see the doctor every three weeks instead of six. Dr. Haderlie also gave me his cell phone number so that I could reach him at all times. I can't say enough how confident I feel in his care and ability to give me the best chance I can have.

Dr. Haderlie is hopeful we will see some positive results in six months. At that time we will re-evaluate. The longest we can utilize this treatment plan is one year. Because of the risk factors, shorter is better.

I don't know why this is my life at this point but I do trust in my Father in Heaven's love. I feel so blessed to know and understand The Plan of Salvation. I am confident that there is great purpose in this life and trust that I am clay in the hands of the potter. The sadness I have felt the last couple of days as I have come to terms with what was coming will not get me down! I am in the process of taking a deep breath and allowing myself to be comforted by the power and warmth of the Holy Ghost. Those of you who know me best know that for me control is a very big deal. I think it is an especial challenge for those whose childhoods are out of control. I have to let go and trust God in a way almost as great as I have had to do as a mother and that is big.

I am also very aware that there are many whose struggles are much greater than mine. This is life! We each have our share of blessings and challenges that is for sure.

Please keep Claigh in your prayers as well. I am very aware of the challenge this is for him. We had other plans for our lives at this time. Our hopes for missions after retirement are still there but who knows the way things will go.

There are things I can't control but I am determined to do all that I can to regain full health God willing. I look back over my life and marvel at His hand in my life all along the way. Forward and onward!

Aly and Steven's First Home

2011-01-04T18:08:00.004-07:00

After a delay in Rawlings, Wyoming due to the closing of I-80, Alyssa and Steven arrived in Idaho safely Friday. They had hoped to make it to Soda Springs in time to celebrate Bryn's 11th birthday and thankfully they did. After a birthday dinner with Ash and Steve and Sara and Jared's families, they made their way to us in Idaho Falls.

After catching their breath a bit, opening wedding gifts, apartment contract review, visiting, unpacking and repacking, and renting a U-Haul, things were in place for their move into their first home.

Tuesday dawned a bitter -14 degrees. Steven made his way to Rexburg for an early morning work meeting while Alyssa and I began the process of washing all of her dishes and linens so that things would be ready to go straight into their cupboards.

I had begun the day fasting for blood work which unfortunately took a bit out of me. By 10:30 a.m. I ran out of steam and was down for the rest of the day. However, with the early morning efforts, Alyssa and I were almost at the end of the 3 dishwasher loads, 2 dish drainer hand washed loads and three loads of laundry by that time. Alyssa kept at it and had everything ready to go when Claigh and Steven picked up the U-Haul at 1:00 p.m. (The temperature had warmed up to a balmy 4 degrees by then.)

The Sevy's are now official residents of Rexburg, Idaho and we couldn't be happier for them. The generosity of so many dear friends and family has helped this young couple in their start to new family life. Their apartment is sparsely furnished and yet filled with not only their love for one another but the love of so many whose gifts contributed to the setting up of their new home. Surely the love of God is reflected in the loving kindness of His people. We are so very grateful.

THE Wedding!

2010-12-19T09:43:00.006-07:00

It took us six years from Ashlee's birth to get Alyssa AND it was well worth the wait! How we love this beautiful faithful daughter. Alyssa has had quite the adventurous life with her junior high school year spent as a Congress Buntenstag student in Germany, a leadership scholarship to CNU following High School, an 18 month mission to Portugal for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and a return to Christopher Newport News University in Virginia to finish her Bachelor's Degree Studies this past year and a half. Now the best of adventures begins as she was married to Steven Sevy, December 15th, 2010 in the Draper Utah Temple!

Steven is a true answer to this mother's prayers. You may have heard me say on more than one occasion, I love love! Our world is all mixed up right now on matters of love and marriage and family. I prayed that a young man as faithful as Alyssa would find her and that together they could build a future basking in the light of the love of the Savior. Heavenly Father has blessed both Steven and Alyssa with a perfect match. I am deeply grateful.

On December 9th, Alyssa completed her final finals and http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif she did very well I might add. That same day, Claigh flew to Virginia for the "Preception" in Poquoson the following evening. Due to my health challenges I was not able to make the trip. The Sevy family is wonderful and with their help, her sorority sister SaraLynn and her mother, and many other dear souls, a wonderful time was had by all. SaraLynn's dear husband Daniel brought his camera and got some pictures.

After pulling an all night packing session, Aly and Claigh boarded the plane to fly home. They arrived just in time for Alyssa to make it a few minutes late to a bridal shower put on by her dear friend Deatra.

Sunday was filled with church and friends. Monday she was off to the dentist and then we headed for Salt Lake City. (Actually we hit snag #1 when Alyssa couldn't find her drivers license and debit card. We finally had to leave without them. The girl had had so little rest the following week I thought it was incredible she was standing!)

Tuesday was get our bearings day and a photo shoot in extreme wind at the temple. I loved watching this very "in love" young couple. They really know how to have fun together. What a joy.

We ended the evening with dinner and the diving show at The Mayan Adventure Restaurant with the Stalcup family and Cam and Collins, which was followed by some last minute shopping.

Wednesday morning dawned bright and early with one last minute crisis. The girl scheduled to do her hair and makeup never showed. Thank-goodness for sisters! We made it to the temple only 15 minutes later than scheduled and Alyssa was at her most beautiful ever. Did I mention that I love this girl!

There was newly fallen snow and lots of closest family and friends to greet the newly wed couple. All of our son-in-laws and daughters as well as 15 of our 20 grandchildren were there. Chris and Erin made the extra effort to come up from California. After more pictures we were off to the Magnolia Grove for a luncheon with about 80 guests. Thankfully Cameron and Collins took a few candid shots. We had a wonderful photographer, Ashley Mackay and didn't take any pictures ourselves.

Alyssa and Steven left the next day for Florida, a Bahamas Cruise and a flight for Virginia for a Sevy Christmas. They will pick up her car and things and head out on the road for Idaho. PRAYERS PLEASE! Steven begins his last seven months at BYUI. We are excited to have them close for a few months but then they are off to parts unknown. Steven hopes to have a commission in the USAF.

We feel very blessed!

PICTURES FOLLOW

Wedding Pictures

2010-12-15T16:00:00.003-07:00

December 15th - Greeting the Newly Weds as they leave the warm temple and walk into the brisk winter air
Spencer and Xander
Aly and Nieces
Ashlee and Will

Nephews getting ready for pictures - Jacob, Max, Noah, Xander, Seth, Alyssa, Will, Greg, Elijah, Spencer (hidden), Brig
As mentioned, the candid shots were taken by Cameron and Collins.
December 14th Dinner at The Mayan with Stalcups and Stewarts
Ashlee, Sara, Erin, Alyssa, Carey, Cameron

Alyssa and Cameron
Sisters

Jensen, Bryn, Steven, Lucy, Kes

Bailey Family

Spencer, Will, Bryn, Steven, Alyssa, Greg, Kes
Bryn's favorite part of the luncheon (We don't have a picture of Spencer's favorite part - the cheesecake!)
Uncle Dennis plays "Somewhere My Love" for Aly
Jensen and Bryn take a peek to watch the photo shoot.
This is what they saw.
Getting married on top of a mountain in December tends to chilly weather. After looking at chintzy capes in bridal shops that just didn't match up to her dream, Alyssa found the design and the perfect fabric for her wrap. Her wonderful mother-in-law helped make it a reality.

Preception Pictures

2010-12-10T22:00:00.001-07:00

Doctor Who?

Family

With Ashley and Kelsy

Sorority Sisters

What would wedding time be without a crisis - The cake decorator canceled the week of the preception. Not good when you are in the middle of final exams. A friend of a friend stepped in! I have been told the red velvet cake was delicious. Alyssa's colors were royal purple and Shasta Daisy red.) The bride and groom carving was done by Alyssa's father-in-law.

Dancin' Shoes

Struggle Ahead . . . Catch up July 16 - October 18, 2011

2010-10-20T09:06:00.000-06:00

These past three months have been tough to say the least! I am not Okay but trust I am in God's hands and I guess that is better than Okay isn't it?

Aunt Norma Stanford, her daughter, my dear cousin Janet, Aunt Joanie Coover, and last of all, Brother Regher passed from this life to the next. The hardest of these losses was Janet. She was taken so young and so quickly - just days following her mother's death. Janet's cancer was detected the week of Aunt Norma's funeral. The other dear souls had lived long and well. It seemed a tender thing for them to move from this life to the next. Somehow with Janet it is different. There was no time to prepare or get that last hug. Still I know that we are in the hands of a loving God. I pray for her children. I trust.

Adding to the difficulty of these months has been my own physical struggle. We finally have some answers . . .

It all began with the opportunity to drive to Arizona for a 12th birthday celebration for our grandson Noah and his ordination to the Aaronic Priesthood. It is great to live in a day and time of travel possibilities that allow such precious sharing of the most important times in our family - even if it is in Arizona in July! Whew!!

Noah was his normal Noah-self and an absolute delight to be with. The time with his five brothers and sisters, his mom and dad and the Anderson crew was simply wonderful! The picture was taken on our way to a grandparents, mom and dad and Noah tasty fish dinner at Kings Seafood Restaurant. Don't you love the hair-in-the air look? Do you think it is a genetic youthful predisposition Carey?

At any rate on the morning of July 16th after a peaceful night's rest, I awoke with swelling in my legs and feet. Things began to progress throughout the day with an evening visit to an Urgent Care facility, followed by an emergency room visit and numerous lab tests that comprised most of the night. Nothing particular was found except for a possible high read on proteins in the urine. It was nothing significant though and the doctor thought it was probably nothing. He sent me home with diuretics and the council to follow up with my family doctor in Idaho Falls.

We headed back for Idaho taking the route through western Arizona so we could stop and see my brother David who lives in Lake Havasu. We arrived in Lake Havasu in time to share lunch and some laughter with David, Sharon and Sharon's mother before we continued on our way home. After an uncomfortable night in Cedar City, we hit the road hoping to arrive in time to see our family doctor for a 4:00 p.m. visit. We just made it. Dr. Bennett assured me that he thought I had just had a bit too much salt. He told me to cut back on salt intake and continue with diuretics. I really did not think salt was the problem but I guess that for some people it is and this was the logical starting point.

A week later, things had progressed and I was definitely not getting better. It is important to note that other than the fatigue which I have been battling for a couple of years, consistent weight gain, and the swelling of my legs and feet, I felt just fine. Actually the exhaustion factor was increasing and I found myself often berating myself for being lazy and unable to get much accomplished. Those of you who know me know that I am a goer and a doer. I have always had high energy and a love for having things in order. I love to be with people and in general just living life fully and richly. I felt I was slowly being swallowed up in weakness.

I called the doctor's office to find he was gone for the week. I made an appointment to see his associate. (As a side note, Claigh and I have consistently prayed for divine guidance for ourselves as well as the doctors who were treating me. This prayer has been repeatedly answered.) At the end of my appointment, I mentioned the low level of protein in my urine that had been noted in my hospital visit in Arizona. The doctor almost as an afterthought determined it might be wise to do a 24 hour urine collection to see if there was anything there. This was the beginning of an at times overwhelming process. It was found that my kidneys were not processing proteins normally and indeed the levels of protein in my urine were over 8000. That is very bad!

My family doctor returned, made an emergency appointment for me at the kidney institute. That first visit was a bit unreal. The possibilities seemed far beyond what I could believe. I asked why I wasn't feeling sick. The doctor told me that kidney disease is called the silent killer for a reason. It kind of sneaks up on you. He also said I was very fortunate because most people do not catch these problems so early on in the process. Following more extensive blood work that gave no clear indication of what the problem was, I was scheduled for a kidney biopsy.

My biopsy was done October 1st, the tissue sent to a lab in Arkansas, and the report to the doctor by the 5th. What an amazing time we live in! Dr. Haderlie called to start me on another medication and give me the direction for more blood work to be done a week later, just prior to my next appointment with him. In the meantime, I had begun to deteriorate even more with bouts of extreme muscle weakness and overwhelming fatigue. I was losing hair by the handfuls.

My decreasing health made me more and more unreliable. A week ago, I had to come to terms with the fact that I could not continue to let others down with my last minute "pull-outs." This was a real low for me. I had to give up my work as election day registrar and even more painful, I had to take a leave of absence from my Wednesday morning shift at the temple. We had bought Claigh's ticket to Virginia in December for Alyssa's wedding reception in the hopes that I would improve and be able to attend. It became apparent that I couldn't plan on it. (I am so grateful for the many kind and generous women who are helping her and for Steven's family. I am also grateful they will be married in the Draper Temple just 3 1/2 hours away. I am thankful for the family celebration following the wedding. When this was all planned, we knew nothing of what was happening within my body - just another tender mercy from the Lord.)

Sunday, October 17th, our home-teachers (elders from our church) came to give both Claigh and I blessings. These two men are dear friends. God's love is reflected in the goodness of his faithful.

On Monday, October 18th Claigh and I headed for my appointment with Dr. Haderlie. I was confident things would be quickly and easily resolved - perhaps a diet change, some medication and a little time and all would be well. Claigh quietly had a different view. We planned to make the rush-hour movie following the appointment as a beginning of next day birthday fun. We never made it to the movie.

In brief:

I have Membranous Glomerulonephritis and Nephratic Syndrome.

Some proteins are provided to the body through the food we eat. Some are created in the liver. In my case, nothing is working right in either regard. My liver is aware and over working trying to compensate and is now added to the list of things to monitor. My kidneys are currently operating at 100% capacity but instead of appropriately sending proteins into my blood, the proteins are slipping through and being dumped. "Protein excretion into the urine (proteinuria) is accompanied by low levels of important proteins, such as albumin, in the blood, increased levels of fats (lipids) in the blood, a tendency for increased blood clotting, and a greater susceptibility to infection. The decreased level of albumin in the blood leads to edema and to the retention of excess sodium." I have been feeling "wasted" due to the lack of protein in the blood and the high levels of acid in the blood.

With one week on the medication, my protein levels did not go down but increased to 13000. Dr. Haderlie says this puts me into the "High Risk Group." He said that many doctors would immediately start me on high dose chemo-therapy but he felt we have a little time to see if we can get things under control. (This is because other "markers" are still in good ranges.) The end of this effort will be in March. If we are not able to rein things in, I will then begin Chemo-therapy.

Due to the overwork of my liver and other related factors, My Cholesterol is at 407 mg/dl with LDL at 272.4. (HDL is 99.) The doctor says this also puts me at high risk for stroke or heart-attack.

My immune system is compromised. Dr. Haderlie said I need to be wise and stay away from crowed theaters on a Friday night, sick children etc. I will get my flu shot this week for the first time ever. - The fun never ceases!

It is not known if this is a primary disease or secondary. Dr. Haderlie said I need to work with my family doctor to immediately do my cancer screenings regardless of the last time I had them done. Undetected cancer is the likely culprit in most cases. Diabetes can also bring this about but all tests seem to indicate that I do not have diabetes. The other possibility as stated earlier is that this is a primary disease. If so, there is a 5%-30% chance that within five years it will just resolve itself, leaving my kidneys in good shape. I VOTE FOR THAT! I did have to wonder at the 5-30 range. - What on earth does that mean?

I also currently have a danger of developing blood clots with the greatest concern being a clot to the kidney which would immediately kill the kidney or to the lungs. As a matter of fact, I had to leave the Doctor's office at 5:30 p.m. and head for the hospital to have ultra-sounds of both legs due to the uneven swelling. My technician was one of the rugby players from the Highland High Team featured in the film "Forever Strong." How about that! The interesting conversation made up for the 2 1/2 hour wait, the loss of a movie night, and the overwhelming diagnosis. (Not really but it did help ease things a bit.) Claigh and I got home around 9:00 p.m., I took my meds adding the two new prescriptions and I fell exhausted into bed.

Claigh had a full work schedule in Driggs (2 hours away) the next day which was to be my 58th birthday. Trips to Driggs are long days for him which is tough when he isn't well rested, and I wasn't looking forward to being alone. I felt sucker-punched with the reality of the challenge ahead finally sinking in a bit. I slept on the couch downstairs as I have to get up throughout the night and I worry about interrupting Claigh's sleep. About midnight I heard Claigh walking around upstairs and worried that he was still up.

The next morning at 6:30 a.m., I heard Claigh come down the stairs and sit in the big chair beside the couch. I turned to say good morning and low and behold, he had grown beautiful blond hair! I was shocked to see Carey sitting there grinning ear to ear. Claigh has pulled of some big time surprises in my life but this had to be one of the best ever! After our morning prayer, Claigh left for Driggs and Carey prepared me a delicious Frittata. She actually created the frittata with 5 eggs laid by her family chickens the morning before. Yummmmm!! (Did any of you ever see Carey as the mom of six with a dog and chickens? Very fun. . .)

My dear friend Jean knocked at the door at 8:30 a.m. with a hug and some tasty dinner for later. At around 10:00, Ashlee drove up minus kids to spend the day! Surprise number two and absolutely fantastic. Two dear friends from church showed up at 11:00 - hugs and laughter.

Carey, Ashlee and I enjoyed lunch at Carinos Italian Restaurant - more laughs and memories. We ran a few errands and headed back home so I could rest for a couple of hours and Carey and Ashlee could run an errand for Cameron.

Alyssa and Steven had their engagement pictures taken last weekend and sent them via email. Of course, the three of us enjoyed some time going through them. Ashlee kept us laughing with her "great" ideas for the wedding reception. We will have a fun family time as we gather to celebrate. It is so good to see young love ready to commit to God and one faithful other. Steven makes son-in-law #5 and we are thrilled!

Early in the afternoon, in Arizona, Sara had her ultra-sound and found that after three delightful sons, she and Jared will be blessed with a little girl. That makes grandchild #20!! The day just kept getting better.

We ate a tasty supper of Carinos' left-overs followed by the white chocolate cheesecake I had made - more laughter and good conversation. Carey presented me with a fun charm necklace to match one for her and one for Jensen. Ashlee and I have been canning buddies this summer. She surprised me with a canning book we had both been admiring. My friend Bonnie stopped by to say Happy Birthday, Claigh made it home (with the new Condalisa Rice auto-biography I have been wanting to read.) around 9:00 p.m., Ashlee headed for her home, and Claigh, Carey and I settled down to watch the movie Cameron gave me for my birthday (Temple Grandin) I fell asleep after the first few minutes but finished it this morning after I saw Claigh off on his way to the temple and Carey on her way to SLC airport.

The story of Temple is very inspirational. Thank-you Cameron. It was just what I needed. The most touching part of the story to me is when Temple seems to accept her reality as her mother reassures her. I felt something very personal in that moment.

Many of you posted birthday wishes for me online. This added to the blessing of strength, peace and the love of God I felt through what could have been a very rough day. I am deeply and profoundly grateful. A special thanks to Claigh, Todd and Steve for their thoughtful efforts in giving me a day with two of my five beautiful daughters. And as for Jean & Gary, Bonnie, Sylvia, Erica, Hilarie, Pam & Steve, Sunny, Deanna, Paula, Adeana, Bob & Jackie, Amy and Nicole - Good friends are truly one of the best blessings of life. Also, thanks to all of you who have prayed for us and added your faith to ours.

A final note: Yesterday was not only great for having my girls here but also for the fact that already with the new medications, I have increased stamina. This continues today or I would never have completed this post.

Forward and Onward!

Stewart and Stalcup fun In Idaho

2010-07-08T10:29:00.013-06:00

The past weeks have been filled with fun and good times! The last of June, Alyssa flew in for a three week visit from Virginia followed closely by Cam and Collins and family arriving from Washington, followed by Ashlee and kids sharing a few days with us all. Alyssa flew home, Cam and Collins left for a Stewart reunion in Utah, and Ashlee and crew made their way back south, Claigh and I changed all the bedding, hopped in the car and headed for Soda Springs to spend July 4th weekend with Ash and Steve.

Some of the fun:
* wedding dress shopping and plans sorted through for December
* corn on the cob and fudge at Farmers Market
* nieces and nephews met their new soon to be Uncle Steven with a "V" for the first time. (They love him and we concur!)
* Rexburg temple trip for Cam, Collins, Alyssa and Steven followed by barbecue at Famous Daves (They loved it!)
* early morning disk golf
* first two strawberries of the season picked from grandma's patch.
* splash Park fun in Rexburg (Gideon and Spencer were wild men! - Very fun!!)
* fireworks culminating in "Pink Diamonds" for Felicity (quote "I loooovvve pink!")
* Egin Lake - catching tadpoles - eating hotdogs - loading up on sand etc.
* hide & seek
* Ashlee's first trip to Sarah's Cottage - truffle yumminess!
* smoosh ball tag
* strawberry rhubarb pie - Yummmmmm!
* Lego creation
* "The Last Airbender" in 3D (AWESOME!)
* building a float and creating costumes with Ashlee.
* July 3rd fireworks, and July 5th Parade and a little blue grass music thrown in for good measure (Soda Springs takes America's birthday seriously - Very fun!)
* home for a brief collapse "Toy Story 3" - back to work for Claigh - back to the temple for Wendy. Whew!!!
* AND the grand finale - sharing in the first temple experience for our dear friends Chris and Pilar Saslow - Their family became forever! How we love the blessings of the temple! Thank-you Heavenly Father.

We were so busy having fun we didn't get many pictures. I promise to do better next time.

Aly with a ring on her finger!

2010-06-17T11:33:00.009-06:00

Happy 25th Alyssa! The girl celebrated a quarter of a century in grand fashion. Our youngest - 25 years old! Where have the years gone?

As is our family custom, Claigh, Alyssa, Steven and I had a fun birthday luncheon with Alyssa's favorites: steak, pasta salad with roasted vegetables, tossed salad, and chocolate angel food cake with strawberries and chocolate whipped cream. With no Ukrops in Idaho, I had to experiment with high altitude adjustments to make the cake. The first one turned out perfectly, the second one totally flopped and the third one was Okay. Whew - What we do for love! 25 years is something to celebrate!!

However, Alyssa's day began in the shadow of the temple on the banks of the Idaho Falls. Steven had planned a sunrise picnic for the two of them. In their honor the sun shone and the wind blew. The thermometer was reaching a mighty forty degrees. Such is Idaho at 6:30 a.m. in June. They enjoyed their tasty breakfast muffins and much to Alyssa's surprise, the presentation of a beautiful ring.

Steven Sevy is from Newport News, Virginia and is the youngest of five. 3 nieces and 2 nephews call him "Uncle." He will be taking a big leap to 8 nieces and 16 nephews with this brilliant decision to join the Jensen clan. How fun it will be to have the kids get to know him. We are just excited to meet his parents and family. Such a wonderful son and brother represents them well.

Steven and Alyssa plan on getting married mid-December following Alyssa's final finals at CNU. Their first home will be here in Idaho (where else?) as Steven will have two more semesters at BYUI to graduate in August 2011. After that - the world is their canvas!

As noted, Aly is approaching her last semester at CNU. This summer she is doing an internship at a law office in Richmond, Virginia, working at The Cheese Shop in Williamsburg, and serving as a counselor at EFY at SVU in Buena Vista, Virginia. We feel fortunate to have her home for a three week visit in the midst of all her goings on. We are sure that Steven being here in Idaho had a little something to do with her generosity in coming home.

We couldn't be happier!

June 17th ended with Spencer Baseball and a repeat birthday cake performance in Soda Springs with Steve, Ash and Family. Even our picky eater Gregory enjoyed the cake and strawberries.

Our day ended with a drive back to Idaho Falls with Bryn and Kes in tow. Aly stayed the night with Ashlee for some sister time. Fun Fun Times!

Spokane Fun

2010-05-16T12:52:00.016-06:00

Claigh and I took a quick trip to Spokane, Washington Friday to celebrate a very special event. Our son-in-law Todd Bailey ran his first marathon as the culmination of 40th birthday celebrations. Todd and Carey flew from Phoenix arriving in Spokane Thursday night. We left Friday at 10:30 a.m. and arrived just in time for dinner at 6:00 p.m. in The Spaghetti Factory with Carey and Todd, Todd's sister Katie and her husband Chris Brown (from Kent, Washington) and Todd's close friend Derek and his fun wife Jen (also from Gilbert, Arizona.) Todd filled up on carbs and in support the rest of us did too. We all made our way to the hotel for a good night's sleep anticipating an early start the next day.

Earlier in the week, Todd had been rear-ended as he was stopped at a red-light leaving his subdivision. This is not the best way to prepare for a race. However, Todd was determined to see it through. I can't even fathom the mental preparation, moral strength and courage, let alone the physical conditioning that is required to start out on a 26.2 mile race and finish it!

The day dawned cool and clear. Katie and Chris were team racing with Katie running the second seven miles of the race. Chris started and ended the marathon Chris, Todd and Derek lined up near the back of the pack, the countdown began and the runners were off. The run was along the Spokane River beginning in Post Falls, Idaho and ending at Riverfront Park in Spokane, Washington. 4 hours, 11 minutes, 33 seconds later and Todd crossed the finish line. WOW! It was truly an inspiring day for Claigh and me. By noon, Claigh and I were headed back to the hotel to pack up and head home. We made it back to Idaho Falls at 11:00 p.m. It was a whirl-wind trip so very worth every effort to make!

The race started and finished with a kiss.

This next shot was taken as Todd was approaching the finish line. Derek is at his side and crossed just after Todd.

Mothers Day May 9 2010

2010-05-10T12:25:00.000-06:00

Due to the 100 year celebration of Scouting in America in Blackfoot, Idaho Friday May 7, we were blessed to have the Stalcup family visit for the weekend. Ashlee, Steve and Spencer spent Friday evening and Saturday in Blackfoot with the Scouts while Claigh and I thoroughly enjoyed having special time with Bryn, Kes, Will and Greg. We love having them in Idaho! Saturday afternoon, Steve headed back to Soda Springs for a full day of work on Sunday. This left us with Ashlee and the kids for Mother's Day. Things were well planned out for a peaceful Sabbath day with a roast beef dinner before church, and strawberry cheesecake after.

An hour before dinner and two before church, I got a call from a young mom who needed a last minute substitute for her primary class. There was no lesson prepared and no lesson to prepare. They had planned on just doing a review of the past three lessons on Joseph of the twelve tribes of Israel. YIKES!!! However I do love the Primary and knew that Bryn and Spencer would be in the class so I said yes.

Everything from there was a blur. I had to really work fast and furious to pull things together. Ashlee and Claigh put the last minute needs together for dinner and I began to pull pictures from my Old Testament file. By the time Claigh and Ashlee left with the children for church, I had only to get dressed, get things loaded into the car and head out. I made it just in time for the sacrament which made me very happy.

Claigh agreed to attend the class with me and thank-goodness for that. We had 15 children in the room. We played a blackboard baseball game with questions from the life and times of Joseph and accomplished a pretty thorough review. Heavenly Father answered my prayers and saw us through. What a joy to spend time with these wonderful young people!

After class, Claigh headed to his priesthood quorum meeting and I started for Relief Society. I found Greg asleep on a chair with a friend watching over him. Will had a little difficulty settling into his class and Ashlee was with him so I headed to the nursery to relieve Ashlee. The next fifty minutes were spent taking little ones to the bathroom, and watching two incredible nursery leaders love and teach the children. It was truly inspirational.

Following church we enjoyed our cheesecake, packed up a good dinner for Steve and Ashlee and the children left for home. It was a wonderful day!

April Pics from Claigh's camera . . .

2010-04-30T15:36:00.026-06:00

and the Stacy Dabbs Studio Photos:
Professional Photos of Dana and Dustin's wedding by Stacy Dabbs

Henri tells us that Dustin is very good to Dana. It is hard for a dad to turn a daughter over to another man but it is wonderful when he knows that man will treat her well.

Alexis and Dana are true sister-friends.

Happy Happy Times

Pam and Henri. - The beautiful mom and thoughtful dad.

There are some advantages to being the youngest. Your brothers are a step ahead in the hair loss department as so magnificently demonstrated by Chris. - Wait a minute. - What's up with the thick mop on Henri's head. Has he found the real fountain of youth?(See photo above.)

Cindy and her youngest daughter Erin - two more Jensen beauties.

Claigh always enjoys time with his first niece Shanon Glevy. Shanon had a nasty scratch on her eye and yet somehow is just as beautiful as ever! Her smile is her very own and dear to all of us who love her.

Brothers! Henri, Chris and yes - the short one is Claigh. (You can't believe everything your eyes tell you.) The handsome young man is Chris's grandson Devon.

Claigh was fortunate to visit his mom's twin brother, Uncle Don and his dear wife Belle. Uncle Don holds a very special place in our hearts.

Celebrating Dana and Dustin!

2010-04-19T09:16:00.012-06:00

Claigh was fortunate to make a trip to San Bernardino, California for the wedding of Dana and Dustin April 10, 2010. We are so happy for this young couple and their commitment to each other. Marriage is a sacred trust and the foundation of all that is best in human relationships!

We love Henri and Pam and their beautiful daughters and Ben and Bob so much. How wonderful to share this special day with all of them! I was unable to make the trip because it had to be quick and as tight on the money as possible BUT my heart was filled with special longings for them all. (Long car trips really wrench my neck and back. A little something left over from my car accident a year ago.) Sadly our camera got a lot of blurred pictures of the day so we are patiently waiting for others to post their photos to get some good wedding shots.

Todd, Carey and crew made the trip from Arizona to join in the celebration so Claigh enjoyed some wonderful time with them as well. He especially enjoyed the Jennie Sunshine Hugs! He also enjoyed the time with Chris and Cindy and their children Sean, Erin and Shay and their families. It always a special treat to have time with dear ones since we lived far away from our extended family for so many years.

Arizona Fun

2010-01-20T08:57:00.009-07:00

We had a wonderful albeit quick trip to Arizona for the boys baptisms. Some highlights:

The baptism of course!
Carey's "Good Ship Zion"
Nummy luncheon - Thanks Carey and Sara!
Henri
Lucy Smiles
Brig's pondering look
Disk Golf on the beautiful new course just before a big storm undid all the new landscaping.
Elijah's disk skill
Sara and Jared's soon to be new home.
Claigh's time with Jared ripping up carpet.
Middle Earth Risk ~ NOT!!!! However, you have to love time spent with Noah and Jacob!
Jennie and Xander Hugs
Fun Play Ground
Maxwell laughs
In-house bird song
Seth think
Todd's Bodd - Marathon count down!
Sara and Carey - Two wonderful hostesses who made us feel welcome.

We were having so much fun we didn't get many pictures but here are some:

Seth and Xander are Eight . . .

2010-01-11T11:34:00.001-07:00

And it is GREAT!!

Best Friend Cousins
Alexander Kaden Anderson born in Orem, Utah - December 11, 2001
Seth Anthony Bailey born in Mesa, Arizona - January 10, 2002

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T20:00:00.002-07:00

In our family we celebrate the New Year in the best of ways! Bryn was born on the last day of 1999 in Buffalo, New York. What a way to close off a century and welcome a new year!

B-eautiful inside and out
R-emarkable!
Y-es she can!
N-urturing
J-esus' Lamb
A-ccepting

N-ote Worthy
I-nvaluable
C-entered
O-bedient
L-over of good books
E-xemplary

S-cribe
T-hespian
A-ll Girl
L-oving
C-apable
U-ndaunted
P-leasant

Happy Birthday Brynja Nicole Stalcup!

Christmas in Soda Springs

2009-12-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

Claigh and I made our way to Soda Springs for Christmas Eve. Excitement filled the air. We enjoyed the traditional night before Christmas Mexican feast. Bryce and Tammy and their four children came to share in the fun. Tammy brought some delicious stuffed chili peppers and Ashlee made her famous chicken enchiladas. Claigh and I brought our favorite dip and chips and a salad. We had a tasty tasty time.

Santa didn't disappoint! He even took the time to write the kids a note thanking them for their goodness in the past year. The Straws and Connectors that he brought the Stalcup family were a big hit. I hope Ashlee posts some pictures taken with Bryn's new camera of the structures that were created.

Greg was just old enough to catch the wonder of it all. His new drum was his favorite gift. Kes was particularly happy to get the make-up she had hoped for. Santa seemed to know just the right gifts for each one. Spencer spent the day creating his new Lego Star Wars ship with Bryn's support. Will's smile says it all!

We feel so blessed to have Steve, Ashlee and the kids close. I enjoyed playing Topple with Bryn and putting together Hungry Hippos and being soundly beaten by Will. He seemed to get the best of Spence, Kes, Bryn and I. The reading of the story of the birth of Jesus as recorded in the Book of Luke remains my favorite of favorite Christmas time traditions. Time with Ashlee is always a treat and on our way out of town, we got to see Steve's store and some of the improvements he is in the process of making. Thank-you Steve and Ashlee for a wonderful holiday.

Claigh's December Column

2009-11-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

The Power of a Grateful Heart
Claigh H. Jensen, LCSW

Peace on earth, goodwill to men. In these troubled times, how can you be filled with a sense of peace and goodwill? Research has found that living gratefully changes everything! Choosing gratitude is choosing the abundant life.

The great Roman philosopher Cicero wrote, "Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others." In Webster's 1828 Dictionary we read, "Gratitude is a virtue of the highest excellence, as it implies a feeling and generous heart, and a proper sense of duty."

In the "Research Project on Gratitude and Thankfulness," co-investigators Robert A. Emmons, of the University of California at Davis, and Michael E. McCullough, of the University of Miami found that living gratefully improves several aspects of an individual life. They discovered people who live gratefully enjoy greater vitality and life satisfaction. The grateful were also found to exhibit positive emotions, empathy, generosity, and optimism. Physically they tended to sleep better, have lower blood pressure and were more likely to exercise and take care of their health.

Interestingly, Emmons and McCullough found the cynical view suggesting positive people either deny or ignore problems to be unfounded. Indeed, "grateful people do not deny or ignore the negative aspects of life." In reality gratitude energizes and helps one see possibilities and solutions to challenges. Rather than being overwhelmed, a person with a grateful heart finds increased energy to overcome!

Dr Sapna Parikh recently reported on MYFOXNY.COM, "Research shows that gratitude really does bring you good health and happiness. . . . One study . . . found that people who are grateful are less resentful and less envious."

There are some specific actions you can incorporate to develop or improve the virtue of gratitude:

First, believe you can change and improve. Decide that living gratefully is possible regardless of your circumstance. Recognize that life is filled with many opportunities for growth. It is important to take responsibility for your attitude towards people and the world around you.

Second, let go of the negative thoughts that may be a part of your current thinking pattern. Forgive yourself or others if needed and let the past go. If appropriate, ask for forgiveness. Move forward.

Third, keep a gratitude journal. I have found that keeping a handwritten journal filled with the things I am grateful for improves my sense of well-being. On difficult days, reviewing what I have written previously reminds me of how blessed I really am. You may want to consider an online gratitude journalling group that allows you to share in the written thoughts of others. The energy in grateful expression is contagious!

Fourth, be aware of others and take note of their efforts to give. Express your thanks and appreciation when someone does something for you. Help your children and grandchildren improve their social skills and like-ability by teaching them to live thankfully and to express their gratitude. Peers are drawn to those with the positive energy created by grateful living. The one who can see the good in others and knows how to articulate it spreads the warmth of appreciation.

Fifth, if you have been neglecting your spiritual life, consider returning to your faith home. McCullough, Emmons and Tsang found "Those who regularly attend religious services and engage in religious activities such as prayer [and] reading religious material . . . are more likely to be grateful." While it is not necessary to attend church to develop the virtue of gratitude, apparently it helps. Gratitude is the root of spirituality.

President John F. Kennedy once stated, "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." The power you unleash as you determine to live gratefully will improve your physical and emotional health. And not only will it bless the life of your family, it will improve the community in which you live. Grateful people change the world! During this joyous season determine to liberate the wealth of personal power that resides in a grateful heart!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how difficult it is to take time to write and keep up the blog. Life is full of good things and the addition of the Stalcups to Idaho has really increased our joy. Claigh and I actually had family to share Thanksgiving and Christmas with!

As is often the case with retail - Steve had to work Thanksgiving Day. Ashlee and the kids came to Idaho Falls Wednesday to help prepare the feast. The four older kids each took turns making up a pans of crescent rolls with their mom. (You can see their creations on their bread and butter plates.) Traditions merged and we were also treated to tasty deviled eggs which are a favorite part of a Stalcup Thanksgiving.

Kes really enjoyed the power that comes with having your own little set of salt and pepper shakers. She kept realizing that this or that needed just a little more salt. Ashlee's sweet potatoes and apples was a big hit. In honor of the "not into cooked raisin" crowd we had our apple stuffing minus raisins and the kids actually liked it. Letting go of the raisins was a great sacrifice for Claigh and I but well worth it to have our fun dinner guests enjoy it all.

At the conclusion of our tasty feast, Ashlee led our musical crew in the fine art of making crystal sing. Bryn was quick to learn with Spencer not far behind. Spencer decided he needed to take a crystal goblet to school so he could treat the whole third grade class to his great talent.

As the afternoon grew late, the Stalcups loaded up a dinner for their dad and headed back to Soda Springs.

Celebrating Tyler

2009-11-08T17:31:00.002-07:00

Today Claigh and I rose early and headed for 9:00 a.m. Sacrament Meeting in the Woodruff 3rd Ward. We can't miss our opportunity to partake of the Sacrament and renew our covenants. The talks following the sacrament on "worship through music" were inspired. What a great lift to start our Sabbath Day!

As soon as Sacrament Meeting was over, Claigh headed for his Key Scouters meeting and I headed for home to pack a lunch for the car. A short time later I returned to pick up Claigh. The day was crisp and clear - the roads dry. Perfect for our 3 hour drive to Centerville, Utah.

At 3:00, my niece Alyson and her husband Paul's youngest was blessed in Paul's parents' home. Tyler is the fourth in this delightful family. His big brother Tommy, and his sisters Emily and Katie were a joy to meet. It was also good to see my sister-in-law Diane again after many years. Seeing my nephew David and my brother Dennis were added treats. Both Alyson and Paul have wonderful supportive families. It was a celestial day to be sure. Following the blessing we had tasty Tuna Croissants, Green Salad and a fruit salad. Yum!

Strains of Celtic Harpstry filled our car for the ride home. We pulled in just in time for Claigh to take the sacrament to a dear sister who is unable to attend meetings. - A perfect ending to a perfect day.

Sadly, our camera was low on power but we did get one shot of this very dear family.

Halloween Fun for Grandpa and Grandma

2009-10-24T17:00:00.000-06:00

Look who came to our house for Halloween Fun 2009. - Ninja, Frogger, Mario, Princess, and believe it or not Harry Potter. Oops - I forgot the Grandpa.

Birthdays are more fun with kids!

2009-10-19T20:00:00.002-06:00

Claigh has always made my birthday special but this year was even better with Ashlee and the kids adding to the excitement. In August, Steve and Ashlee made their way west with us as a stay-over station until they were able to get a home of their own. We had a good couple of months with a house full of love. What a delightful family! For my special day, Ashlee prepared a tasty supper followed by a raspberry filled cake and thoughtful gifts! The kids really showed how well they know me.

Everyone knows how I love books. Will found the perfect ones to add to my children's shelf.

Kes chose this beautiful angel with a dove for me. I love doves and all they stand for.

Not only did I get roses from Spencer but he parted with four shiny quarters! Now that's a gift from the heart.

Bryn knew the fun we would have with a new "I Spy" Puzzle and she was right on.

Claigh had our family picture from this summer enlarged. We are all grown up! Ashlee did the leg work for him and while she was at it, she had two of our couple shots and one of our grandkids photos made into five by sevens for my gift from her. I love it!!!! Unfortunately Steve was in Kansas City on a business trip but I ate an extra slice of cake in his honor. Thank-you dear family!

Yellowstone Adventure

2009-10-18T11:06:00.001-06:00

Idaho has a way of snapping out of summer in a hurry. I think we had less than ten tomatoes off the vine before the freezes began. The maturing vines were finally loaded with green tomatoes and so Claigh rigged a light and night cover system in hopes we could have one good harvest of slowly ripening fruit. The weather has warmed and we just may get to have one good picking if it all keeps up. It is a Indian Summer, my favorite season of all.

I love to experience all the goodness around me. With life so busy since we moved here over a year ago we haven't had time for some of the things I have really wanted to do - like go to Yellowstone just two hours away.

Last Saturday we had the perfect "park" day. With yard work to be done, a few preparation needs for the lesson I was to teach the following day and the commitment to take a cake to the High Priest Social that night, things were in place for another of those "get it all done days." Rising early I took care of the lesson needs and was able to arrange for a friend to take the cake. We turned away from the yard work and by nine a.m. we were on our way for a much needed break.

It was an absolutely glorious day!!!! We saw very little of what there is to see and are excited to return again and again. We did make it to Old Faithful just in time to see it erupt into the clear blue sky. The steam and water were startling white. Magnificent! In the picture, Claigh is standing in front of Old Faithful when it has almost receded completely back into it's crater.

The five and a quarter mile hike to Fairy Falls was perfect for the fifty degree weather. My feet are not as young as they used to be and by the time we made it back to the car, they were hurting. New shoes with better cushion are definitely in order, however the hike was worth the discomfort. The the air was crisp and clean. Along side the trail there was a very small basin (perhaps three and a half feet in diameter) filled with steaming water that appeared to be a deep turquoise color due to the depth. There is really no describing the beauty of it. Fairy Falls is a lovely small waterfall with no geothermal feature similar to many waterfalls throughout the mountains. There is something about the sound of water rippling in a river or as it cascades over the rough rock of a mountain wall that sings peace to my soul.

Claigh and I enjoyed walking the boardwalks through a couple of the Basins that are between the west entrance and Old Faithful. The Prismatic Geyser and Sapphire Pool in the Midway Basin and Sunset Lake in the Black Sands Basin were incredible. The turquoise and blue appearance of the water was hard to believe. Throughout the land water boils in small mud pots and streams of hot mineral water runs over colorful ledges into the river. There are forests of microscopic organisms forming colorful crusty patches throughout the landscape. Steam rises into the sky all around you. We are excited to go again and again in hopes of seeing it all.

Thank-you Claigh for a wonderful time. There isn't anything better than a beautiful day outdoors with the man I love best. I am grateful for health and strength to enjoy the wonder of God's creation - to see and hear, to feel and know. Life is good.

Stalcup Pics of the Cousins

2009-09-22T16:19:00.002-06:00

Our Nine Year Olds, Elijah, Bryn and Jensen . . .

2009-09-22T16:19:00.001-06:00

Seven and Eight - Xander, Seth and Spencer . . .

2009-09-22T16:17:00.000-06:00

Our first graders Kes, Max and Gideon . . .

2009-09-22T16:16:00.002-06:00

Two Cute minus Brig - Will and Felicity

2009-09-22T16:15:00.001-06:00

Our babies Lucy and Greg . . .

2009-09-22T16:12:00.001-06:00

Three Great Guys

Love that Uncle Jared!

Stalcup Photos froom the temple continued . . .

2009-09-22T15:23:00.008-06:00

The evening began with a mild breeze but before long we had good strong Idaho gusts whipping our hair into a frenzy.

More Reunion Pictures from Steve and Ashlee's Camera

2009-09-22T15:10:00.010-06:00

These first pictures are from our trip to the temple. The kids enjoyed our time in the visitor center. The missionaries were gracious and wonderful with the children. As we sat on the benches in front of the Christus, we listened to a beautiful audio featuring the words of Christ. The children maintained a reverent attitude as they looked closely at the statue. The marks of the nails in the hands of Jesus were significant to them.

Steve, Ashlee and Fam move to Idaho! - Alyssa moves east . . .

2009-09-20T07:33:00.004-06:00

Soon after the reunion, Claigh got a call from Steve asking if the Stalcup Family could live with us for a while as they wanted to move to Idaho. Ohio was a bit too far away for the job hunt process and he felt it was time to move west. The Stalcups know how to do things up in a hurry and by the end of August they were here with one week to spare before the kids started school.

During the same time they were determining to come west, Alyssa was doing all in her power to move east. It really did look like she wouldn't make it but with one blessing after another, she was set to head back to CNU to finish her degree. (She left on Saturday morning August 15th and Ashlee and Steve arrived Monday the 17th.) It is a bit sad to have her so far away again but I admire her spunk and spirit of adventure. She is now living and working full time in Williamsburg, Virginia and taking a full schedule at the university in Newport News.

Bryn, Spencer and Kes have settled nicely into school and Greg and Will keep things hopping here at home. Ashlee is an amazing mom who manages home and hearth while Steve is finishing out his training period with his new company. That's right. He was hired by Alco within two weeks of arriving. This will be his last week in the training store in Dillon, Montana and then the family heads for Soda Springs just under a couple of hours south of here. Alco is a company that opens up department stores in small communities across the nation. Steve really likes the company set-up which is great since he hated to leave Tractor Supply Company. There are really some great businesses out there. I just have to say that with all of the bad press business is getting these days.

Soda Springs has a population of just over 3000 people. Ashlee and Steve have been there a few times already looking for a place to live. There don't appear to be any homes for rent which may mean they have to buy. This could take some time but thankfully with them settled here for now that will all work out. It is all pretty exciting! Ashlee says that the community is very nice and the people even nicer. It is an Idaho thing for sure! There is something in the water that just brings out the best in people :)

Alyssa has just informed me that she will have New Years week off. It can be a rough time of year for travel so I am starting to pray now that she will be able to get here and back without any wasted time. Every day counts when it comes to family time!

Claigh's September Column

2009-09-19T18:18:00.001-06:00

The Fundamental Preparation

Claigh H. Jensen, LCSW September 6, 2009

Labor Day is our celebration of the American worker and the freedoms we enjoy in this great land to create, produce and provide. Over the years of my life I have come to love work. I have also observed that for many people retirement is way overrated! The ability to work is a core skill developed in childhood that shapes a person’s entire life. It is the underlying ability that promotes happiness and a sense of well-being. Developing a strong work ethic is critical for parents and their children.

Thomas Alva Edison, one of the great inventors taught, “Being busy does not always mean real work. The object of all work is production or accomplishment and to either of these ends there must be forethought, system, planning, intelligence, and honest purpose, as well as perspiration. Seeming to do is not doing.”

One of parents’ greatest responsibilities is to teach their children effective work habits and to help them develop a strong work ethic. This ethic includes a willingness to work, the ability to enjoy work, and passion for productive work. With these in mind, let's apply Edison's formula to successful child rearing.

1. Forethought: Take time to effectively plan for the training of your children. Observe other parents whose children know how to work. Visit with them about the how they are teaching their children good work habits. Develop a vision of the type of work ethic you would like your child to possess as an adult. Remember you are helping your child develop a positive attitude toward work.

2. System: According to Dictionary.com one meaning of the word “system” is, “an ordered and comprehensive assemblage of facts, principles, [and] doctrines.” As you are in the process of figuring out the “how and what” to teach, be sure what you are putting together makes sense and that you as parents are willing and able to work together in unity and consistency. Work must be a family value.

3. Planning: Consider what you want to teach your children about work as well as specific experiences you will provide that will help them learn to work effectively. On a farm it seems there are plenty of opportunities to teach and learn principles of work. For those in the city, more thought may be required. Work opportunities begin in the home and then may expand to parks or other community sites. Perhaps a widow's lawn needs care, providing a child with the satisfaction of service as well as joy of a job well done.

4. Intelligence: The German poet, Berthold Brecht, once said, “Intelligence is not to make no mistakes, but quickly to see how to make them good.” Pay attention to how and what you are doing. With end results in mind, seek suggestions from your child on a particular work need, drawing them into the “thinking it through” process. Focus on purpose. Make improvements where needed. Determine to stay on track, again, with the desired end in mind. Use good judgment.

5. Honest Purpose: Through example and positive expectation, teach your children integrity - to do the right thing for the right reason. Be honest. Have a worthy purpose that will improve the quality of life in the home as well as the community. It is important for parents to model good work habits for their children. Happily working with children while cleaning the kitchen, doing yard work or during a service project is a great way for children to learn the joy and satisfaction that comes from effective and productive work.

6. Perspiration: Thomas Edison’s famous quote confirms, “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” A parent needs to help a child see a job through to its completion. Much of the gratification that comes through work is lost if there is not a successful end. As F. Enzio Busche stated, “In thoroughness there is satisfaction.” Inspire your children to perspire!

Americans recognize that our strong work ethic is essential to a prosperous and happy people. Parents need to make every effort to pass this ethic along to the next generation and to help their children develop good work skills. Work is the foundation of a happy life. Helen Keller expressed it this way, “Many people have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification, but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.” To know the blessing of work is to thrive.

Additional helps

http://www.ahherald.com/atlarge/2005/050505_child_work.htm

http://www.houseoforder.com/teachingchildrentowork.htm

http://www.bible.ca/f-child-teach-work.htm

http://early-childhood-development.suite101.com/article.cfm/chores_and_children

http://www.wahm-articles.com/Article/Teach-Children-Good-Work-Habits/4434

One last Reunion Note . . .

2009-09-19T18:08:00.003-06:00

I must conclude by saying how grateful I am to Heavenly Father for watching over our family during our reunion time. I had made our safety a matter of prayer for weeks prior to our gathering. There were thousands of miles traveled with no incident. We found Isaac safe and sound. The fact that Claigh happened by the slide stairs at the swimming pool just at the right moment to catch Elijah was a true miracle. This could have been a serious accident but ended up being a matter of a few scrapes and bruises. I am deeply grateful for a merciful Father in Heaven who answered my prayers in such a wonderful way. Our family is our greatest treasure. Not always do we escape the struggles and trials of life but at times there are these miracles that in our heart of hearts we know are blessings from a loving God. Thank-you Father in Heaven!

Sara's Excellent Jensen Reunion 2009 Post . . .

2009-09-19T18:06:00.000-06:00

IDAHO!

In to the second week of our trip. On Friday, June 27th we started making our way from California to Idaho. On the way out we stopped by Summer and Philippe's to drop off the excess groceries we all purchased for the beach house and to say bye. We left Vista at 11:30 CA time. We got slowed down a few hours by the mass exodus of Californians to Vegas for the weekend. It was totally annoying. Without getting off the freeway in Vegas we were in Las Vegas for over an hour. We were hoping to make it to Provo so we could stay free at the Landons' and fortunately we made it there at 11:30 Utah time.

The dog, Crash barked at us for a few hours which was pretty annoying. We got acquainted with the cat Xena who is awesome. Jean and Ross were on an anniversary trip and were extra kind enough to let us crash so we could handle the final 4 hours of the trip to Idaho. Xena is a cat they rescued. She is seriously one of the most beautiful cats I have ever seen and she is a bit schizophrenic. For our less than 12 hours there she would race Jared up the stairs to bat at him through the rails. She "attacked" his feet and overall entertained me. She also gave me a bear hug around one leg. Kindly she left her claws in for this.

We left Utah by 9 AM our time, 10 AM local time. Because of this we managed to be in 5 different states in less than 24 hours: California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and then Idaho. Jared and I were shocked at how beautiful Cache Valley and Southern Idaho are. It was so green which I guess is unusual but they had had a rainy June. Sometimes we forget that we really are city people and it is fun to fantasize about buying a ranch up there. On the way home we drove through Garfield County in Southern Utah and I would so give up city life to live there and just enjoy God's creations. (But then we made it back to Phoenix, and I woke up realizing how much I love this town.)

Carey and I were texting our progress back and forth. Apparently the family was anxiously awaiting our arrivals. It was awesome to see all of my sisters and most of their families. I got to meet Will and Greg Stalcup for the first time and maybe Isaac Stewart. (I don't remember if he or Gideon was a baby the time the Stewarts stayed with the Baileys in Gilbert.)Until Wednesday we had 28 people staying in the same house. Todd had to get back to work so the number dropped to 27 for the remainder of our stay. I was grateful I had done all of my family's laundry at the beach house in California because if I hadn't my family would have been naked or wearing dirty clothes for the majority of the week.

A side note: If I got any of the time-line or groups wrong please let me know in the comments!

The kids enjoyed vacation bathing standards as we didn't want to hog too much of the bathrooms. I thought we all did an excellent job of sharing space, 3 bathrooms, 1 kitchen, and 6 bedrooms. My boys really enjoyed the slumber party family room where the majority of the kids slept. I enjoyed hearing stories from both my mom and dad as I helped wrangle kids for bed time. All of the kids enjoyed hearing naughty stories and I never tire of hearing how my dad tried to outrun my grandpa when he was in trouble. (Mom and Dad, you both need to start blogging your childhood remembrances and your remembrances of our childhoods regularly!) I also enjoyed my dad's singing of "Angel Lullaby" and I can't remember the hymns my mom sang but I loved them. I remember it is a hymn that shares a title with a more commonly sung hymn and I was surprised when she started singing since I expected the other song to come out. I love that my mom played the accordion growing up and even played on TV once.

My boys also enjoyed eating outside with all of the kids away from Jared's and my watchful eyes. Dinner was always excellent. The chicken, beans and rice we had on Thursday night was awesome. Reid's Dairy in Idaho Falls has awesome ice cream and great grilled cheese sandwiches.

I loved going to church at my parents' home ward. My mother gave an awesome Sunday School lesson. Getting so many kids to the proper Primary classes was fun for Jared and I. Unfortunately Kes was sick and the Primary leaders separated Gid and Maxwell. Gid, Maxwell, Bryn, and Noah were the only ones who didn't have cousins with them in their classes.

Their ward has a weird policy though that I didn't find out about until after. I was sitting during the actual Sacrament trying to figure out why so many parents with crying babies weren't taking their babies out until after Sacrament was finished. It didn't bother me, it was just unusual. At least one of my sisters did get up and leave with their distraught child and I learned the reason why no one else leaves. Their ward does not take Sacrament to those out in the halls so one of my sisters only got the bread. I am sure they have some logic to it, but I think if you do something like that you should put it in neon lights above the Sacrament table or something to inform the visitors and new people something like "If your baby cries or screams stay seated until after the Sacrament. It will be okay." When I had toddlers and babes I was in a ward where everyone was judging you and staring at you if your kids made a quiet peep never mind actual tears.

The best part of Idaho was being with my family. I am so lucky to have 4 wonderful sisters and 2 wonderful parents and so many great nieces and nephews and brothers-in-law. And not that I have any say, but, Alyssa when you get married you need to get married in Idaho, Utah, or last choice Arizona (it would work great for Carey and I, not so much for anybody else, but we would let everyone stay with us, which gives us 4 bathrooms and 8 bedrooms) so most of us can be there.

My main activity in Idaho was going to Walgreens. Jared had a cold or allergies or something and I had to pick up my prescription. I went there 4 times I believe. Other activities included going to the temple grounds for family pictures, going to Reid's Dairy, going to Yellowstone Bear World, going to a splash park in Rexburg, going to the swimming pool, and walking along the Idaho Falls greenbelt.

On Saturday we ate pizza. Just so everyone knows, if you want Jared to visit offer him pizza before he comes and feed him pizza as much as possible while he is there. Jared is a pizza fiend. I felt bad for Todd who is rocking his diet (already lost 30+ lbs and looking quite svelte) and could not partake of any pizza. I rode with my mom, Noah, Kes, and Max to pick up the pizza from Papa Murphy's.

On Sunday we celebrated Jared's birth, life thus far, and future life by eating brownie sundaes. My mom buys the best candles.

On Monday we separated into groups. The men and most of the older children went shooting and the ladies and the younger children went to a splash park in Rexburg. Elijah, my dad, Brynja, Jensen, and Spencer were lucky enough to do both. My dad called us on the way out the door to let us know he would meet us there. Carey told us to get the swimsuits for that group of kids and somehow forgot Jennie's in the rush. Luckily Elijah was wearing basketball shorts so we lent Jen his swim trunks which were way more comfortable than the jean shorts she was wearing. I had to stay in the shade because of the major sunburn I was rocking so I happily helped tend to the babies, Greg and Lucy. The splash park was mostly uneventful except that we lost Isaac. Isaac had a pattern he was following and my dad was watching him. Isaac flitted out of the pattern so it was a bit stressful looking for him. I remembered Cameron talking about how sometimes he runs off to the bathroom in public places so I thought to look there. I found him in the boys' bathroom and helped him get redressed. I was much relieved to have found him safe and sound.

Monday evening we headed to the temple grounds for family pictures. Grandma and Grandpa bribed the grandkids with a trip to Reid's Dairy afterwards. The ice cream and waffle cones were awesome and we had fun checking the animals out at the farm. We saw roosters and chickens up in trees which I was sure to take many pictures of. Overall, it was a wonderful day. I agree with Tom though about the wearing white making you look fat. The white looks good and I am sure if I was skinny the white would look great on me.

Tuesday Jared, Dad, Jonah, Noah, and Elijah went to play Frisbee Golf or Disc Golf. Jacob and Todd went to Pocatello to get the tires changed on the van, and the rest of us took care of the kiddies at home. Cameron did a super fun story time which ended in a dance party. Some of the highlights from story time include Felicity standing up next to her mom also holding a book, Greg sitting attentively on my lap listening to the stories, Isaac sitting on my lap listening to the stories and Aunt Alyssa reading the super long dragon book with several of the kids clambering over each other and her to get a better view. Dance party is always a high light and we enjoyed watching each other's "moves".

My mom had gone and purchased a sprinkler and splash balls for the kids and when she returned we got the kids ready to play in the backyard. After listening to much whining and crying about the splash balls, I stopped the game. No parties were innocent. The whining went something like this, "So and so splashed me." and me responding with, "You splashed them. If you don't want to play with the splash balls and you aren't getting anybody then nobody will get you." After awhile my patience ran out and I took the splash balls away. I think games like that really require men around to keep the kids from being sissy whine babies. During the remaining water play Ashlee, Greg, and I set up shop in a shady spot of the lawn monitoring the kids.

Wednesday, the Baileys divided off for a family day, Alyssa went to work, my mom went in for an emergency root canal procedure, and the rest of us went to Yellowstone Bear World. Jared and I drove Kes, Steve, and Greg in our car and everyone else was divided among the rental Expedition and Cameron's van. Once we made it to the park we gave a crying Greg back to Ashlee so we had Kes and Steve only. We had a lot of fun in our car and Steve is only a lot bit mischievous. Steve's back was killing him and he needed an appointment some time next week. I would share some of the other naughtiness that took place in our car but I don't want to give my mom a heart attack. We all made it out of Bear World alive (barely). Thanks Mom and Dad for funding the adventure. During the trek, my camera and camcorder batteries died so there is little documentation. We did get to feed the bears and elk and stuff which was a lot of fun. I even got a few of the bears to beg despite the annoying group of people with us that refused to follow the directions from the guide. Seriously, they were a super annoying family swifting our food after they over-tossed their own.

Thursday is a day I wish I could block from my memory aside from the happy ending part. Mom still needed to recuperate (oddly enough) from her root canal and Alyssa had to work once again so the rest of us went swimming at the local indoor pool. Jacob stayed home with a napping Lucy. The pool made me nervous from the beginning since the lifeguards weren't very attentive and there were only 2 watching a super large pool that was full of people. Because of this I was working at keeping a good eye on my kids and as many of the nieces and nephews as possible. Jared and some of the kids had been at the diving boards and I would glance over there occasionally. I saw Elijah fall off the high dive from the top of the ladder onto the cement. I saw a man try to stop Elijah's fall but I didn't know who it was or how successful they were. I don't think I have ever screamed so loud. Most of my sisters also saw this happen. I was freaking out (understatement) and couldn't understand why there was what seemed to be no response from the lifeguards. There were some curse words aimed at the staff there and a lot of anger from me. It turned out my dad had just finished swimming laps and had decided to go over to the high dive. Because of that (which I credit Heavenly Father with) my dad was there and able to drastically slow down Elijah's fall so his head only hit the cement a little bit and he came out of it with no broken bones or serious injury, just a lot of really bad bruises and a few scratches. Poor Jared had to watch the whole thing helplessly from about 8 ft away. He had been standing in line at the low dive. The only other time I remember being that angry (as I was with the pool staff) was with the idiot nurse from Jared's initial stay at the hospital post motorcycle accident. The pools were never cleared and the lifeguards seemed completely untrained in how to handle any sort of incident. We are all blessed that Elijah wasn't seriously injured (as he should have been) because of their lack of response. Basically the situation left me a lot nervous to ever take my kids swimming again.

Thursday night Mom and Dad manned the kiddos so Carey, Ashlee, Steve, Cameron, Alyssa, Jared and I could go out to raise a little ruckus in Idaho Falls. We tried to find some cows to tip but ultimately failed. We headed again to Reid's Dairy. It was too cold to eat the ice cream outside so we all piled in to the rented Expedition. I thought it would be neat to drive around the temple at night so I asked Steve to meaning we could park over there and all enjoy our ice creams. I guess I wasn't clear enough and poor Steve didn't catch the purpose of us parking over there so when I asked if we could drive around the falls after we were parked for a bit he about died with wanting to eat his treat as well. We all had a good laugh and then he finally was able to eat his treat. We went down by the river and walked along the greenbelt. The river was super high and super rapid which left Steve, Ashlee, Jared, and I all deciding not to take the kids by there before leaving town on Friday. On the drive home I took a picture and the flash about gave Steve a heart attack thinking he had gotten a ticket since in Ohio they have traffic cams just like us in AZ.

Friday was spent packing up. Jared, Grandpa, Elijah and I don't know who else went for a super early morning round of Disc Golf. We made sure Elijah and Xander had a chance to play catch with Grandpa before leaving town. I was sure to get cousin pictures in age groups. And then we headed off to Salt Lake.

I am so grateful my parents and Alyssa opened up their house to all of us so we could have such an awesome reunion. Thank-you to my mom especially for the cleaning, shopping, and preparation that only a mom would realize needed to be done. The food was great and Idaho is beautiful. We look forward to many more visits in the years to come.

Reunion 2009 Part 5

2009-09-19T13:09:00.041-06:00

Our family devotional theme for our 2009 reunion was "Temples." The above picture of Claigh and Isaac is from our time in the Idaho Falls Temple Visitor's Center. When I consider how blessed we are to live in a dispensation where temple ordinances are available, my heart fills with joy. We had a temple display with temples that are particularly meaningful to our family:

Los Angeles Temple
- Great Grandpa and Grandma Jensen were sealed one year after their conversion,
- Grandpa Claigh was sealed to his family when he was six years old.
- Grandpa Claigh's first trip for baptisms for the dead
- Grandpa Claigh and Grandma Wendy received their endowments and were sealed to each other and their baby girl Cameron January 15, 1972.

Alberta Temple
- Grandma Wendy's first trip to the temple was when she was twelve years old and she was baptized for her mother Shirley Doreen Coover Smith who had died six years earlier.
- Grandma Wendy was sealed to her adoptive parents, Harry and Viola Smith, when she was thirteen years old.

Chicago Illinois Temple
- Cameron, Carey, Sara, and Ashlee's first temple trips for baptisms for the dead.
- Jonah was born in the covenant because his parents were sealed in this temple.
- Grandpa Claigh and Grandma Wendy served as restricted ordinance workers.
- Uncle Steve received his endowment.

Portland Oregon Temple
- Uncle Todd received his endowments

Provo Utah Temple
- Aunt Cameron and Aunt Carey received their endowments.

Salt Lake Utah Temple
- Uncle Todd and Aunt Carey were married.

Nauvoo Temple Site
- Uncle Steve asked Aunt Ashlee to marry him.

St. Louis Missouri Temple
- Aunt Alyssa's first temple trip to do baptisms for the dead.
- Aunt Ashlee received her endowment.
- Uncle Steve and Aunt Ashlee were sealed in the St. Louis Temple.

Palmyra Temple
- Uncle Steve and Aunt Ashlee lived in Buffalo New York when this temple was built. All of the children of the temple district have bricks with their names on in a path at the temple. There is a brick with "Baby Stalcup" for Brynja who was soon to be born.

Washington D.C. Temple
- Aunt Cameron and Collins were married.
- Grandma Wendy served as an ordinance worker.
- Aunt Alyssa received her endowment prior to her mission to Portugal.

Idaho Falls Temple
- Grandpa Claigh, Grandma Wendy and Aunt Alyssa's Temple 2009.
- Family pictures were taken on the temple grounds June 29, 2009.
- Spencer felt it was special that the temple is located by the river.

Mesa Arizona Temple
- Uncle Collins received his endowment.
- Jacob's first temple trip for baptisms for the dead.
- Aunt Sara received her endowment.
- Bailey and Anderson Family Temple 2009

Seattle Washington Temple - Stewart Family Temple 2009

Columbus Ohio Temple
- Stalcup Family Temple 2009

Bear World - Reunion 2009 Part 4

2009-09-19T12:41:00.004-06:00

One thing that I had really looked forward to this year was the trip to Bear World with the Stalcups, Andersons, and Stewarts. However, Wednesday morning dawned with the minor molar pain from the night before intensified into drive me crazy pain. While the Baileys headed out for a family day and the others made their way to Bear World, I spent my time at first the dentist and then in emergency root canal surgery at the endodontist. Unfortunately I have a history of very bad teeth but the timing on this dental crisis couldn't have been worse. I was pretty frazzled by the end of the ordeal. (I left the endodontist office at about 3:00.)

From all reports, the family had a wonderful time at Bear World, the Baileys saw the hospital their mother was born in and ate at Craigos, and Alyssa had a good day at work. Todd had to head for work in Ogden that night and slowly the family began to leave.

I don't take well to the medications and anesthesia they have to use for root-canal surgery and this put me under a bit of stress for Thursday and Friday. I was not good for much BUT thankfully I did get to enjoy Bear World in 2008 with the Baileys AND I have had Craigos yummy chicken ranch pizza. I was disappointed to miss out on the fun none-the-less. I have yet to go disk-golfing. Claigh, Todd, Jared, Steve, Elijah, Jonah, Jacob and Noah had some fun on our beautiful course in Freeman Park. I'll have to get busy before the snow flies so I can sharpen some yet to be developed talent. It will be fun to give the boys a run for their money next visit.

Sara and Jared headed out early Friday, Ashlee and Steve Saturday and Carey and the kids stayed for a few more days. Carey and I made the most of our time by puzzling over the coconut filled chocolate cookies from Geraldine's Bakery here in Idaho Falls and determined to figure out our own recipe. Surely we could do something as wonderful for a lot less than $2 a cookie!

One of the great mysteries was how they got the coconut inside of the cookie. I asked the baker at Geraldine's and she just laughed, "We buy them frozen and bake them." Boy did that burst my impression of bakery life!

Carey and I had a couple of not so good attempts. First - Okay but chocolate was a bit weak. Then the coconut wasn't quite right. One thought added to another until we had a clear idea of what would work. Third time - SUCCESS! And we believe they are better than Geraldine's!! The Bailey kids named our creation "Cooffles" because in their minds they were cookie truffles.

I am very grateful for a wonderful family. Family was my dream as a little girl and Heavenly Father has blessed me richly!

Reunion 2009 Part 3

2009-09-19T12:30:00.002-06:00

The moms and littles headed for fun at the Rexburg Splash Park for some heat relief. My camera needless to say was with Claigh on the shooting range so I do not have any of pictures from the "water adventure." The kids played and played and played some more while moms visited and kept a sharp eye out for their broods.

At the end of the shooting fun, Claigh pointed his car towards Rexburg and so Elijah, Jensen, Bryn and Spencer were able to join us. They got a two-fer that day :)

Smith Park not only has the splash park fun but also a carousal which Cameron graciously treated everyone to. The kids rode again and again. I am not sure which they liked best - the water or the horses.

When the tired and hungry bodies were ready to pack it up and leave, Isaac disappeared. He is a child who wants to experience everything and who gets into some scrapes due to his ability to focus! Once he has his mind on a certain path, he is not easily distracted. I don't believe there is a rebellious bone in that child's body. He is so loving and delightful. However, he caused us some anxious moments that day. I don't think he had a moments worry but as the minutes ticked by, the rest of us sure had our share. How grateful we all were to find him in his usual happy state.

Reunion 2009 Part 2

2009-08-05T11:06:00.008-06:00

Monday morning arrived with the buzz of excitement for the activity planned by Todd. The men and older kids packed up the Ford Expedition and the Camry and headed for the sage brush covered country side for shooting practice.
The beautiful owl was safe but watch out milk jugs! Todd oversaw the kids practice making sure they understood principles of safety as well as correct technique. (I do hope Noah looked before he pulled the trigger.) This boy has oodles of personality. Bryn has the cutest smile don't you think? The kids really enjoyed themselves. Jennie took over Grandpa's "Aussie" hat. Claigh keeps his head covered in the sun to protect him from sunburn due to the increasing lack of hair. Throughout the family reunion, Jacob watched out for Gideon. He became a mentor of sorts. Very neat! You gotta love Jared's "gangsta style" The kids are pictured according to age: Gideon, Spencer, Elijah, Jennie, Bryn, Noah, Jonah, Jacob.

My very late reunion post Part 1 . . .

2009-08-04T14:14:00.021-06:00

Father's Day 2009
June/July 2009 was a true answer to my prayers in the very best way possible. It can't always work out that way so I am particularly grateful to all of our son-in-laws and beautiful daughters for making good things happen.

The gathering began Friday, June 19th with Jacob flying into Salt Lake from Arizona. From there he rode the shuttle to Idaho Falls and we picked him up late that night. He was coming ahead of his family to attend the Scout leadership camp "Cedar Badge" at Treasure Mountain the following week. Jacob is just a couple of merit badges away from his Eagle project and we couldn't be prouder.

Saturday, June 20th brought Cameron and four of her children into town after a very long 12 hour drive from Seattle. Collins was not able to get away from work but went the extra mile to make it possible for the family to come without him. We certainly missed him. Tristan also stayed in Washington and had time with dad.

Father's day with two daughters and five grandchildren was pretty special for Claigh. He is loved! We had some interesting attempts at a father's day photo shoot after church. Do you think the long day in the car the day before and the three hours at church had anything to do with the wigglies? It made me laugh.

On Monday morning, Claigh headed to work and Jacob, Jonah and I made for the mountains. What a glorious drive. I love the Tetons! Even more importantly, I love these two boys. They are so different from each other and uniquely great kids. Due to some challenges with inadequate directions, we arrived a bit on the late side of things so Jacob and Jonah swung into action and were headed off to settle in very quickly after we arrived. On the drive home, my heart swelled with gratitude for the goodness and righteous desires of my grandsons. I felt deep appreciation for their worthy efforts in the priesthood and their valiant stands for truth. I prayed that they will continue in the strength of virtuous living.

It was good to have time with Cameron and the kids for the next few days. Gideon loves to visit and I really enjoy listening to his musings. Isaac has a busy nature and is on the move. (He could actually bump me off of the speediest in the family spot!) Felicity is a little lady with a winning and sweet spirit.

Thursday, June 25th our ranks expanded with the arrival of our Ohioans! I drove to Salt Lake to pick up Steve and Ashlee and the five Stalcup Babes from the airport. By the time they arrived in Idaho Falls they were ready to be out and running. It had been a very long day of travel but the kids did super. Greg stole our hearts immediately with his big beautiful eyes and gentle soul. These babies change dramatically in such a short time.

Friday, June 26th was the Bailey Fam's day on the road. They rolled into Idaho Falls that night and things really began to bustle around the house. Baby Lucy took the too cute meter up another notch.

Saturday morning, Claigh dressed in his scout best and he, Cameron and Todd headed for Treasure Mountain to attend the closing ceremonies for Jake and Jonah while the rest of us prepared for the arrival of the Anderson Family that night. Sara and Jared were coming in from Southern California where they had attended an Anderson family reunion. Their boys had really seen some car time! By Saturday night, the house was full to overflowing and my heart was even fuller!

We had a room for each family thanks to Alyssa's generous offer to give up her bedroom for the Stewarts. Alyssa was camped out nicely in the office, and the older grandkids covered the family room floor. It could get tough as these boys grow :o) but for now it works out nicely.

Saturday night ended with the smell of birthday baking filling the house. Everyone was very appreciative of Jared's mother for timing his delivery so well 32 years ago.
Our family just would not be as much fun without Jared that's for sure.

Birthday Sunday began with a special breakfast of apple-chicken sausage, cheesy scrambles, Great Harvest breakfast breads, and orange juice. The church schedule for the Crestwood Ward is in the afternoons this year. When you have 28 people in the house to get ready for church that is a very good thing. The trickle out of the house began at 12:15 as Claigh and Isaac began the one mile walk. Claigh wanted to give Isaac all the time he needed to stop and smell the roses so to speak. The rest of us followed one car load at a time. We actually all made it.

Both Alyssa and I teach one of the Adult Sunday School classes in our wards. It was our week to teach and so Alyssa had to be in her ward which meets earlier. This ended up being a very good thing.

I had prepared well in advance so I was able to relax and enjoy being with the family for the morning and in Sacrament Meeting. I did get to carry a "screaming for dear life" child from the chapel. That brought back memories. Once when we lived in Southern California I had to take a very young Cameron from the chapel for disruptive behavior. She yelled "Help! - Help!" as we left the room. What a riot! Back to 2009, after a short time with a very distraught and exhausted Felicity, Aunt Alyssa arrived on the scene and saved the day. Within minutes of being in her auntie's arms, Felicity was soundly asleep and I had my classroom ready for the students that were arriving.

Cousins enjoyed going to Primary with cousins however, Gideon, Maxwell, Bryn and Noah ended up in classes on their own. I marvel at the confidence of our grandchildren. Their mom's and dad's are doing a super job.

After church we all quickly made our way home for comfy clothes and the birthday bash. Everyone agrees that Uncle Jared has the best taste! We enjoyed brownie sundaes on birthday Sunday!!

Time is short BUT . . .

2009-07-29T16:22:00.005-06:00

I can at least post a few pictures. My family reunion blog news will come later. We did have a great time on the temple grounds inspite if the crazy wind. Our girls are all grown up beautifully. They still love to get together to play.

Isn't it amazing how we have grown? Sadly Collins and Tristan are missing from the photos but they definitely are firmly planted in our hearts. Cameron and Collins have blessed us with five grandchildren, Carey and Todd with six, Sara and Jared with three and Ashlee and Steve with five. Alyssa makes for a wonderful aunt for the whole bunch. We feel so blessed!

This is more like it:
Happy Happy Times!

Moms and Dads - Claigh's June Post Register Column

2009-06-25T09:14:00.001-06:00

With Mother's Day just past, and Father's Day soon upon us, we stop to appreciate the contributions of these two very important people in our lives and in the lives of all children.

Children need commitment. They need a mom and a dad who put them first. Good things happen when parents seek the interest of their children ahead of their own. Fathers and mothers who are committed to one another and to their children have the best potential for rearing happy and successful children.

While involved fathers do exist outside of marriage, the Child Welfare Information Gateway reports such fathers "are more likely . . . to be found in the context of marriage." They also conclude that "the married mother-and-father family is a better environment for raising children than the cohabitating (living together) mother-and-father family."

Fathers and mothers in the context of marriage have the opportunity to allow their complementary and cooperative natures to work together to benefit their children. Dr. David Popenoe's landmark book "Life Without Father" states, "The complementarily of male and female parenting styles is striking and of enormous importance to a child's overall development. What is clear is that children have dual needs that must be met: one for independence and the other for relatedness, one for challenge and the other for support."

Parents' efforts to meet these "dual needs" are manifest from the child's earliest days. Popenoe also calls our attention to the fact that fathers use touch, bouncing and lifting, to excite their child, while mothers use touch to comfort. Fathers emphasize play more than caretaking, and are more likely to be physically stimulating. Mothers' play, provides the child with the opportunity to direct the play, to be in charge, and proceed at the child's pace. As children grow fathers' play involves physical games and teamwork that require the competitive testing of physical and mental skills. The type of touch and play a father provides underscores a child's sense of freedom, while mothers' touch and play underscores safety and security.

Complementary roles are manifest in communication styles as well. Father's conversations with their children tend, Popenoe writes, "to be brief, more directive and more focused on specifics. Mothers are much more likely to share their feelings and to engage in extended conversation; they are less directive and more verbally encouraging. Fathers' conversations more often relate to issues of independence and autonomy, while mothers' conversations emphasize interpersonal relationships."

Children benefit in many ways -- physical, emotional, educational, and financial to name a few -- when raised by their married parents.

· Dr. Patrick Fagan found the safest environment for children is in their 'intact family.' (Intact Family Confers Unrivalled Benefits Upon Children)

· As reported by Dr, Popenoe, interviews involving several hundred children, the first conducted in 1951 with follow-up in 1986, "found that the offspring of warm and affectionate fathers were much more likely . . . [when in their forties] to be happily married and mentally healthy and to report good relationships with friends."

· The Institute for American Values, Center for Marriage and Families reports in "Family Structure and Children's Educational Outcomes," that fourth grade students living with their married parents scored higher on reading comprehension tests when compared to students living in other types of families. (November 2005)

· Dr. Fagan notes that students living with their married parents have higher IQs, and earn higher grades.

· Fagan further informs us that regarding financial stability, only 12% of children in intact married families live in poverty, opposed to 31% of those in divorced families, 39% of those in cohabiting families, and 67% of those in never married families.

One more thing to consider: the quality of interaction between the father and mother has a significant impact on the welfare of their children. From the Child Welfare Information Gateway we understand that "A father who has a good relationship with the mother of their children is more likely to be involved and to spend time with their children and to have children who are psychologically and emotionally healthier. Similarly, a mother who feels affirmed by her children's father and who enjoys the benefits of a happy relationship is more likely to be a better mother. Indeed, the quality of the relationship affects the parenting behavior of both parents. They are more responsive, affectionate, and confident with their infants; more self-controlled in dealing with defiant toddlers; and better confidants for teenagers seeking advice and emotional support."

In an article in the University of Utah's Journal of Law and Family Studies, Dr. A. Dean Byrd concludes, "Regarding gender complementarity and child-rearing, tradition and science agree: mothers and fathers provide optimal development for children." Indeed, children thrive when their parents love one another and provide a healthy, loving and stable home. The contributions of committed mothers and fathers to the well being of their children are invaluable.

Claigh's June Post Register Column

2009-06-25T09:14:00.000-06:00

Moms and Dads

With Mother's Day just past, and Father's Day soon upon us, we stop to appreciate the contributions of these two very important people in our lives and in the lives of all children.

Children need commitment. They need a mom and a dad who put them first. Good things happen when parents seek the interest of their children ahead of their own. Fathers and mothers who are committed to one another and to their children have the best potential for rearing happy and successful children.

While involved fathers do exist outside of marriage, the Child Welfare Information Gateway reports such fathers "are more likely . . . to be found in the context of marriage." They also conclude that "the married mother-and-father family is a better environment for raising children than the cohabitating (living together) mother-and-father family."

Fathers and mothers in the context of marriage have the opportunity to allow their complementary and cooperative natures to work together to benefit their children. Dr. David Popenoe's landmark book "Life Without Father" states, "The complementarily of male and female parenting styles is striking and of enormous importance to a child's overall development. What is clear is that children have dual needs that must be met: one for independence and the other for relatedness, one for challenge and the other for support."

Parents' efforts to meet these "dual needs" are manifest from the child's earliest days. Popenoe also calls our attention to the fact that fathers use touch, bouncing and lifting, to excite their child, while mothers use touch to comfort. Fathers emphasize play more than caretaking, and are more likely to be physically stimulating. Mothers' play, provides the child with the opportunity to direct the play, to be in charge, and proceed at the child's pace. As children grow fathers' play involves physical games and teamwork that require the competitive testing of physical and mental skills. The type of touch and play a father provides underscores a child's sense of freedom, while mothers' touch and play underscores safety and security.

Complementary roles are manifest in communication styles as well. Father's conversations with their children tend, Popenoe writes, "to be brief, more directive and more focused on specifics. Mothers are much more likely to share their feelings and to engage in extended conversation; they are less directive and more verbally encouraging. Fathers' conversations more often relate to issues of independence and autonomy, while mothers' conversations emphasize interpersonal relationships."

Children benefit in many ways -- physical, emotional, educational, and financial to name a few -- when raised by their married parents.

· Dr. Patrick Fagan found the safest environment for children is in their 'intact family.' (Intact Family Confers Unrivalled Benefits Upon Children)

· As reported by Dr, Popenoe, interviews involving several hundred children, the first conducted in 1951 with follow-up in 1986, "found that the offspring of warm and affectionate fathers were much more likely . . . [when in their forties] to be happily married and mentally healthy and to report good relationships with friends."

· The Institute for American Values, Center for Marriage and Families reports in "Family Structure and Children's Educational Outcomes," that fourth grade students living with their married parents scored higher on reading comprehension tests when compared to students living in other types of families. (November 2005)

· Dr. Fagan notes that students living with their married parents have higher IQs, and earn higher grades.

· Fagan further informs us that regarding financial stability, only 12% of children in intact married families live in poverty, opposed to 31% of those in divorced families, 39% of those in cohabiting families, and 67% of those in never married families.

One more thing to consider: the quality of interaction between the father and mother has a significant impact on the welfare of their children. From the Child Welfare Information Gateway we understand that "A father who has a good relationship with the mother of their children is more likely to be involved and to spend time with their children and to have children who are psychologically and emotionally healthier. Similarly, a mother who feels affirmed by her children's father and who enjoys the benefits of a happy relationship is more likely to be a better mother. Indeed, the quality of the relationship affects the parenting behavior of both parents. They are more responsive, affectionate, and confident with their infants; more self-controlled in dealing with defiant toddlers; and better confidants for teenagers seeking advice and emotional support."

In an article in the University of Utah's Journal of Law and Family Studies, Dr. A. Dean Byrd concludes, "Regarding gender complementarity and child-rearing, tradition and science agree: mothers and fathers provide optimal development for children." Indeed, children thrive when their parents love one another and provide a healthy, loving and stable home. The contributions of committed mothers and fathers to the well being of their children are invaluable.

Behind the times Blog - Mother's Day 2009

2009-06-19T15:33:00.005-06:00

With the overwhelming schedule I have had this past while, I completely missed blogging about mother's day this year. I had considered just letting it go but the blessings were too remarkable to not take note.

Around the first of May I began to feel a bit blue. I really miss my mom and Mom Jensen. It is sad to lose those dear souls who are truly interested in how things are going for you and your family. I am now the top of the chain and it feels a bit odd. I feel fortunate to have had such dear mothers.

For our Anniversary in January, Claigh presented me with tickets to see "Celtic Women - Isle of Hope" in Salt Lake the Wednesday following mother's day. I love all things Irish and Celtic Women have been favorites of mine. However, as May unfolded, I struggled to get on top of the demands of life and a trip to Salt Lake seemed to just add to the pile of "need to." I wanted to get out of it in the worst way.

Sunday May 10th dawned with an icy Idaho spring chill in the air. My heart ached with sadness. I not only missed my moms but I had been really missing Virginia as well. I kept trying to just get over it but somehow it all was more of a struggle for me than I felt was appropriate. I kept thinking of a Mary Englebrite painting of a woman with a stern look on her face, standing firm with her hands on her hips saying "Snap out of it!"

It just so happened that it was my turn on the teaching rotation for Gospel Doctrine Class Mother's Day Sunday as well. Whew! As I began to do the final preparations for my lesson on Tithing and the Law of the Fast, I remembered a story from President Monson's life in regards to the lessons his mother taught him in being aware and caring for those who were in need. The lesson material contained a story from the life of Dallin H. Oaks in regards to his mother who was widowed young and left to raise her three children on her own during World War II. They struggled and yet she faithfully paid her tithing from her salary as a school teacher.

I too have been blessed with strong and faithful women in my life. I once again felt the deep gratitude for my mother, grandmother, mom and Mom Jensen. I was blessed by wonderful aunts as well as some incredible teachers. Their contributions to my happiness and well being today cannot be overstated. As I reflected on my testimony and as gratitude filled my heart, the sadness began to lift.

Before we left for church, Claigh presented me with the best mother's day gift I have ever received. Each of the girls had contributed to an album sharing their thoughts on my influence in their lives. Knowing full well your inadequacies, you always wonder if your efforts have been enough to make a difference for good. The girls were very kind in their thoughts. It was good to laugh and reflect on some of the fun times of our past. It was good to remember some of the struggles we had been through as a family. It is good to be a family! How is it that I have been blessed with such a wonderful husband and five dear daughters? It is amazing to me. And to think that we have grown to include four son-in-laws that I love with all my heart and nineteen precious grandchildren - my cup runneth over!

It felt good to bear my testimony to my class that day. I know the blessing of putting the Lord first in my life. I am grateful to be blessed to contribute through tithing and fast offerings to the building up of the Kingdom of God on the earth. I especially appreciate the blessings of the temple and the privilege of making and keeping sacred covenants.

Sunday came and went. Monday dawned with me still feeling overwhelmed at putting things together for a trip to Salt Lake. Claigh was unable to sell the tickets and so we put things in order to go. When we got to the hotel to check in, we found it was an old hotel right beside the freeway and we would be on the bottom floor with all of the noise overhead. We decided to pass on that one, canceled our reservation and headed out to find the E Center where the concert was to be. We hoped to find a room close by so we could check in and change before hand. Alas, we found the E Center, found a good place to eat BUT no room!

It is a very good thing we were close to the center as traffic was already in a struggle with one and a half hours to starting time. We found a good parking place and made our way into the venue thinking we might find a room on our way home after wards. Our seats were a bit off to the side but overall very good and close to empty seats in the center. We decided to take our chances an move to the center seats. Good move!

The concert began and immediately took us in. The production was incredible and the music clear and penetrating. The beautiful Irish tunes brought back memories of my Irish Grandma Hansen and my mom. The tears flowed as they performed my mom's favorite song of all time, "Danny Boy." Billy Joel's "Goodnight my Angel" brought thoughts of my mother. "Goodnight, my angel, Time to close your eyes . . . I promised I would never leave you - And you should always know - Wherever you may go -No matter where you are - I never will be far away." Though her time on this earth with me was very short, I believe a mother's heart carries dreams for her children throughout eternity. A mother's love does not die. Somehow in my heart of hearts I felt reassured by that beautiful music. "You'll be in my Heart" by Phil Collins was also very cathartic for me.

"Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears" and "Oh America" were magnificently done and brought us to our feet. Our experience on September 11, 2001 and the time at The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Ground Zero last April (2008) are a part of who I am. I love this country. I mourn what is being lost as our freedoms are now under attack. I am committed to do all I can to stand for truth and righteousness regardless the cost.

My Grandma Hansen was just eight years old when she made her hopeful journey from Ireland to Canada. She did not come through Ellis Island and yet her story so closely mirrors the plight of the many young immigrant girls who did.

I lost a cousin in the Pentagon that fateful September 11th. Alyssa experienced the day as a foreign exchange student in Germany. There was grave concern for her safety and that of the other congressional exchange students because there were known terrorist cells there. The German people in general however mourned with America.

Back in Virginia, As the Relief Society President of our ward, I led the effort to provide for the 76 missionaries that had to be evacuated from the Tidewater area. We did not know if there would be further attacks targeting the naval bases. Also friends of our family lost loved ones in the World Trade Center. We were on the front lines and I will never forget the true travesty of that hateful attack.

I am deeply grateful for the prosperity of our free land and the ability it has given for us to be a blessing to all the world. I am proud of the men and women who have fought freedom's fight in not only our own national interest but also in the interest of liberty for others in faraway lands.

We never did get a hotel room and had to make the three hour trip home late into the night. (Believe me we are too old for this kind of play!) Claigh is amazingly wonderful. For all the grief I gave him through my struggling weeks and my balking at going clear to Salt Lake to the concert, he patiently remained steady and kind. Again, I marvel at how good my life is. The combination of the album created by my husband and children, the devotion and goodness of Claigh, the opportunity to serve in the Sunday School and the Celtic Women Concert brought healing to my spirit. I am thankful.

Our Girly Girl turned TWO!

2009-06-18T11:50:00.004-06:00

Felicity celebrated her second birthday this month in Kirkland, Washington. How we love this petite little ray of sunshine. That Stewart house needed some "pinking" and Felicity is just the right one to color the situation. Her beautiful brown eyes twinkle with the love that seems to radiate from her soul. Thank-heaven for little girls!

Shine on Alyssa!

2009-06-18T11:06:00.002-06:00

June 17th is a big day in our family as Elijah shares his birthday with his Aunt Alyssa. We are amazed to think that our youngest is now 24 years old! We count our children and grandchildren as the most prized of all blessings and marvel at the goodness of God.

Alyssa's faithfulness and diligence in standing for truth and righteousness continue to be an inspiration to us. She is currently serving as a Gospel Doctrine Teacher in Ammon 20th Branch in the Ammon West Stake.

Our move from Virginia to Idaho during Alyssa's mission was challenging to say the least. It is hard to come home to people who do not know you and were not invested in your mission. Alyssa's skill to quickly get to know people and her unabashed willingness to share herself with others overcame the challenge. Organizing the "Temple of the Month" group as well as many different activities have kept her on the move. At a time when so many of her young adult friends are without work, she is particularly grateful for her job and friends at D&L Cleaners.

One of Alyssa's best strengths is her inclusive nature. She is aware of all around her and won't leave anyone out. This sometimes complicates things for us as we try to stuff people like sardines into our home for any activity she gets up. Even though she really keep things hopping for us, we have thoroughly enjoyed the many young people she has brought into our home over the years.

It will be fun to see what Alyssa's 25th year brings her way. As parents, we are confident good things are ahead for her.

Elijah the Birthday King!

2009-06-18T10:43:00.004-06:00

For nine years Elijah has done a good job at breaking in his mom and dad! I have always felt it takes a special child to be first and Elijah is no exception. Max and Xander are fortunate to call him "Big Bro."

Elijah has a pure testimony and readily shares it. It is amazing to consider that he will be a deacon in three short years.

As an up and coming fourth grade student, his keen intellect keeps him on top in his school studies. He is a true whiz at math.

Never let it be said however that Elijah he is just a book worm! He plays soccer, tennis, baseball and running fun with his dad, brothers and cousins. Grandpa Jensen is particularly excited to have a grandson who enjoys baseball.

We couldn't be more grateful for such a terrific grandson!

Dorothy Sue Hathcock Jensen

2009-05-10T12:32:00.013-06:00

Mother’s Day 2009
This is my mother’s first earthly mother’s day with one of her sons re-united with her on the other side of the veil. She often spoke of her love for her boys, and how special they were to her. I hope this is a happy Mother’s Day for them!

One of my earliest recollections of my mother is her rocking me to sleep. I must have been about three years old because we were still living in Cypress. She was singing Old Aunt Mariah - Back and forth, back and forth, singing the same words until, I am sure, I fell asleep.

"Old Aunt Maria, jumped in the fi-ah,
Fire so hot, she jumped in the pot,
Pot so black, she jumped in the crack,
Crack so deep, she jumped in the creek,
Creek was so shallow, she jumped in the tallow,
Tallow so soft, she jumped in the loft,
Loft was so high, she jumped in the sky,
Sky so blue, she jumped in the canoe,
Canoe was so rotten, she jumped in the cotton,
Cotton so white she stay there all night,
and that was the end of Old Aunt Maria who jumped in the fi-ah."
REPEAT

Another memory is that of going to the Los Angeles Temple to be sealed. I remember Henri, Chris and I waiting in the Youth Room while Mom, Dad and Robert received their endowments. I remember the Sister attending us. I remember walking the temple grounds while we were waiting. I remember being escorted into the Sealing Room and kneeling down at the altar. I placed my right hand on the collection of the right hands of my family. I remember feeling something special. I do not remember any of the other particulars of that day. Mom faithfully trusted that being sealed for eternity, through covenant with Heavenly Father, meant our family would enjoy a family connection beyond the grave. She treasured the promise of being with her good husband and her four sons forever. I am confident she was full of joy and smiles on that sacred day. Mom loves her family!

While growing up, on occasion we had Family Home Evening. This was, I am sure, a challenging effort for Mom. She wanted her sons to grow up knowing and loving God. During FHE there were times when Henri, Chris, and I were not on our best behavior. If you can imagine such a thing, we boys would start cutting up, using sarcastic humor, trying to outdo one another! One can only imagine the feelings of a mother’s heart as she was striving to follow the encouragements of our Church leaders and her sons were frustrating her efforts. Regardless of how futile it may have seemed at times to her, all of her sons have grown up to love the Lord.

Dorothy Sue Hathcock Jensen loved America! In one conversation we discussed our family’s European heritage (Welsh, Danish, and even Native American - Cherokee). It seems I was rather excited about the Vikings and had some comments about that. As I was going on she taught me, that first and foremost we are Americans!

Mom, thank you for the gift of life! It is a gift of great worth! Your carrying me those nine months, going through labor and delivery to bring me into the world – how can I ever say enough good about you? Next to that I suppose I am most grateful for your love of God, your faith in His word, your willingness to walk down His paths. I remember more than once your tears flowing as you were touched by the Spirit. I remember your example of faith when you gave up cigarette smoking, telling the missionaries they did not need to take your cigarettes that night because you trusted that if "not smoking" was a commandment from God, then He would take away any urges that might lead you to smoke. Indeed He did. Thank you for your great example of faith.

Your love of the Gospel and your willingness to share it with those around you is one of your great legacies. Sharing the good news that Jesus Christ came to redeem all mankind and that through His atoning sacrifice families can be together forever is a great work! As you know, several of your granddaughters feel similarly and they are great missionaries too. Thanks for providing such a legacy!

Remember we love you and are most grateful for the inheritance you have given us – and pray this day you will feel our love and appreciation. May this day, above all others, lead you to exclaim as did John to the Saints of an earlier day: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

Whoo Hoo Todd!

2009-05-04T14:56:00.004-06:00

Today is "Celebrate Todd Day" and he is definitely worth a celebration.

Terrific
Olddddddd q;)
Daddy
Dear

Todd is a full of fun kind of guy who can even keep his cool when a morning fishing trip extends into the full day with hours in the car winding through Idaho and Wyoming with no fishing hole in site. A take charge kind of guy, he says that next time he will make the plans! (Actually Todd - Claigh has found a great fishing lake just 25 minutes from the house. I saw it with my own eyes so it is legit!)

This year marked my first pine wood derby ever. That's what you miss out on when you raise a family of girls. Who knew how fun a derby could be. With Todd as the Race M.C. I had some great laughs in a very short time. This guy has talent.

Best of all though is Todd's love and devotion to his family. He works hard to provide. And the family is fortunate to have a dad with tools and know how to make good things happen. Todd also knows how to play and is often on the front lines of some real fun. What a great combination!

We love you Todd. Have a Happy Happy Birthday.

TEA Party Fun!

2009-04-16T13:01:00.011-06:00

A month ago I responded to an invitation from the National TEA Party Organization. I was merely expressing interest in participating but soon I began getting requests for information and offers of support. Confused, I went to the site and found I was listed as an organizer for Idaho Falls. Talk about shock! I would never have put myself in this position as I still haven't fully gotten my Idaho Falls legs under me.

Claigh and I met with others who had expressed interest, came up with an agenda, enjoyed some tasties and each went our way with a share of the responsibilities. Andi Elliot had already done some ground work and we chose her as our chairman. None of us knew of each other prior to that night. This was as Grass-Roots as it gets!

The week leading up to the event was quite challenging. Some of those who had taken a share in responsibilities had to back out in the last moments leaving us in quite a lurch. There were many strains that nearly pulled us apart. I found myself earnestly pleading with Heavenly Father to show us the way. By this time there were so many who we had personally invited and involved and I felt great concern for upholding the trust they had placed in Claigh and I as we encouraged their participation.

One step at a time, one crisis in a moment - That's how we kept moving forward. We began with a planned group for the posting of the colors. - That fell apart with the beginning of what would become the struggle against the mud-slinging of those who wanted to silence our voices. Sound Equipment that had been arranged for was no longer available. (Thankfully Andi and her husband worked that one out!)

Monday evening and I still did not have someone to post colors or someone to say the prayer. These were two elements of our event that I felt were critical! The weather took a sharp turn back to cold and the forecast for Wednesday was for wind and rain/snow.

Media was very slow to respond with the exception of talk radio. (A special thanks to Mark and Mel Richardson of "Probing America" and Neil Larson. Stephanie Goodson, a freelance reporter also had our backs.) Wednesday morning the local newspaper that has gone the liberal way of many of the nations publications, published a very disparaging editorial. Isn't it interesting that when conservatives control a newspaper, both sides are heard and when the liberals do, one side is disparaged and/or ignored?

The end of the story - through networking with great people who had contacted me via the national website I was privileged to be meet Bob Reinisch, a disc-jockey for Calvary Church and a member of the Submarine Veterans Association Inc. Bob graciously offered to say the prayer. Bob is the great great (who knows how many greats)grandson of a man who actually participated in the first Boston Tea Party and then went on to fight in the Revolutionary War. How wonderful is that!

Through another contact, Nadene Powell, we were put in touch with Wayne Schnieder of The American Legion Post 56 here in Idaho Falls. Nadene is the care-taker of an elderly father and would not be able to attend and leave him for the extended time it would take to party. What a true support she became! She is really the one who worked out the details to have the American Legion participate. This was a true answer to prayer. She even made some posters for others to hold during the event and I am sure it was a direct answer to her prayers and the prayers of others that the wind and rain let up for an hour during our gathering time. The Veterans were wonderful and posted five flags. They looked so good in their uniforms. How we love our Veterans!

I arrived at the site early to help with set up. Andi and her husband John had done so much to get things in order during the day there was very little left for me to do to help. (I had spent the morning by the phone and computer fielding last minute details and requests for information and last minute media inquires etc.) Andi did a great job with the media interviews we arranged throughout the two weeks proceeding the event and day of as well.

By the time our actual TEA party began, I was thoroughly chilled, quite wet and totally straggly. However, the cause was very important to all who came that bad weather would not keep us away. True patriots show up and the spirit and energy was such a thrill to be a part of. We ended up with what was estimated to be 1,000 to 1,200 people, united in our plea for responsible and responsive government, waving flags and pledging our allegiance. There was nothing professional about our singing of the National Anthem or God Bless America but there was something profoundly moving as our heartfelt voices rang into the chilled air.

All three local stations were their with their satellite trucks to report. The police were every bit as good as those who defend us can be. Memorial Drive had to be closed of due to the size of our crowd. Andi had kept the police department in the loop. Not having any idea of how many we would end up with made it difficult for them to plan but they were ready to take care of us.

Mel Richardson, our guest speaker was marvelous. He has a long history of service as a true patriot and has served in many government positions including representing Idaho as a Senator. For me however, his greatest contributions come through his faithful role as husband and father. He has given much in church service as well. Mel is a man who loves this country and the constitution upon which it was founded. He spoke to us of the need to be a moral people and the need to make our voices heard not just that night but through the coming days, weeks and months through contact with government officials. He urged us to be strong in our voice that "Enough is Enough!" Mel was introduced by his son Mark Richardson and together they provide the program "Probing America" on 1260 a.m. here in Idaho Falls.

The only negative in our evening was that when Mel asked for some of those attending to come forward and express their thoughts, one man who is planning a run for political office took the mike to promote himself. He even ignored Mel's plea that he not make the evening about politics. What a mistake! He certainly did not get it! This is the problem with so many politicians. Thankfully, after being met with boo's he gave up the mike and we were quickly back to the purpose that united us as Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians, and Independents.

Alyssa also took the opportunity to express her purpose in attending the TEA Party. She said that she was there was there to show that her age group was not apathetic and that they were aware of what was happening. Her comments were powerful. I had camera in hand but was lost in what she was saying and realized as she was stepping down, I had missed the chance to get her picture with Senator Ricardson.

Rebecca Bohman had prepared three large posters of The Declaration of Independence for participants to sign. Others joined in to help her with the logistics right there when it was needed. We added our signatures to those of our founders and they will be mailed into D.C. Bob Gorgoglione is a man who loves the constitution and he had prepared a one page information sheet that was handed out.

Our program concluded with the tossing of "TEA Bag" into the Snake River as a symbol of our demand to be "represented."

God Bless America!

Jensen Leigh Bailey

2009-04-13T11:20:00.004-06:00

Today Jennie celebrates her ninth birthday with a bright smile and the cutest freckled nose ever.

Full of energy and funshine, Jennie enjoys things physical like her mom and yet you definitely would not call her a tom-boy. In spite of her "years" with only brothers, she is all girl for sure.

In February, Jennie and her dad had their first "Daddy/Daughter Date." We all enjoyed seeing their new swing dance moves. Todd would lift Jennie into the air and swing her to the side or behind him. Did I mention the Jennie giggle? There is no better invitation to share the fun.

As a conscientious student at Ben Franklin Academy, Jensen knows how to see a challenge through. Math has not come easy for her but this girl gives it the extra effort needed to succeed. Jensen also is quick to fill an assignment. No last minute anxiety for her. A book report assigned is a book report done and turned in. We are excited for her to apply this same determination and work ethic to playing the piano and look forward to the music that is sure to come.

Little Lucy is very fortunate to have such a wonderful big sister!

2009-04-10T20:52:00.007-06:00

What a super Conference weekend!! Jonah got to go to his first General Conference Priesthood Meeting in the Conference Center. Thanks to the connections Collins has in his family we got tickets that put us in the 10th row - center aisle - from the pulpit. WOW!

Of course the thing that was best for me was to get to spend some time with Jonah, Collins and the Stewart side of the family - and then to get to go to Priesthood Meeting together, well it all made for a Celestial weekend. Thanks to all who made it happen.

After Priesthood was over I asked Jonah what he learned. One of the stories President Monson told involved a teenage boy putting his lunch (which had an egg salad sandwich in it) into the vehicle's back window in the summer sun. The young man ate the sandwich much later in the afternoon and became very sick! Jonah decided he would never do something like that. I agree whole heartedly!

I want you all to know how grateful I am for the Priesthood of God being on the Earth at this time. We are soooooo blessed! I am grateful for the time we all had together (got to shoot some hoops, throw a football, eat some food, visit). Thanks to Wendy, Cam, and Lisa for supporting their men in such a venture!

BTW, the photo shown was taken in the Tabernacle, not the Conference Center. We had a full fledged camera with us in the "T" but not in the CC.

Spencer James

2009-04-10T04:59:00.005-06:00

Spencer James celebrates his eighth birthday today with his baptism at 10:30 a.m. This will most likely be the last baptism in the old LDS Church in Chillicothe where Spencer has attended Primary these past years. The ward will be moving into their new church house very soon with Spencer now Chillicothe Ward's newest Cub-Scout.

Spencer can bring a quick smile to my face. He is a fun-loving boy with great heart and bright mind. He truly desires goodness. If there is a job to do and Spencer is in the mix, you find an effective hard working boy.

During my last visit, the kids and I spent one morning cleaning up the play room. We all worked pretty hard to get things straight. The rest of the day was pleasant and we enjoyed a variety of activities including some games of UNO Attack and reading a few chapters of "The Tale of Desperaux." As Bryn, Spencer, Kes and I were busy, Will was also involved undoing some of the work we had accomplished that morning. Late in the afternoon, I asked Spencer if he would like to earn a dollar for an extra job. Money talks and Spencer was quick and thorough! In no time he had that room looking top-notch again and excitedly took his dollar bill in hand.

The next day was Bryn's birthday. When she opened up her hand-made card from Spencer, she found a dollar bill tucked inside. This took me by surprise. Spencer is a boy who really enjoys giving and the happiness that shone in his face that December day was delightful.

This fun picture was taken in May of 2007. One day Spencer's school teacher was surprised to find Spencer sporting a new pair of glasses. She wondered that they seemed a little big on him but chose not to make any comment that might discourage Spencer. The puzzle was solved when Bryn was walking down the school hall and looked into her brother's classroom. She saw that Spencer was wearing his dad's specs and set the record straight. This "like dad" moment touches my heart.

Spencer James Stalcup is a family blessing for sure.

Spring and Summer in Virginia

2009-03-31T11:59:00.011-06:00

I have learned to value the beauty of many different landscapes. Indeed I don't think I fully appreciated the majesty in the rolling waves of wheat and magnificent wide expanse of sky of my childhood home in Alberta until years after I left it. Now that I am back west where the sky is "big" and at night a glorious star studded tapestry, I once again am caught up in the marvel of the creation of our God. I loved the palms and desert plants of our California home and the rolling hills, rivers and trees of Missouri, however the deciduous forests, Atlantic beaches, wisteria, cherry blossoms, dogwoods and magnolias of Virginia are dear memories for me. Most treasured are the recollections of our own Midlothian home.

Virginia mornings would begin with birdsong. The trees around our colonial home rose seventy feet into the air. Claigh and I would often sit in our kitchen nook and look out the bay window into our quarter acre back yard watching the cardinals and eastern bluebirds dart from one tree to another. We would search for the woodpecker we could hear pecking for a juicy bug. Not only did we have three different varieties of woodpeckers, we enjoyed visits from mocking birds, nut hatches, sparrows, humming birds, and wrens.

Many four footed friends including squirrels and chipmunks and of course our dear Shelti "Katie Dog" brought life to our yard as well. Katie was growing old. She would sit calmly in the yard with her head erect waiting for the surge of energy that would spring her to life as a cheeky squirrel got confident enough to come down from the trees. For a few brief moments she was young again. This "catch me if you can" game gave us many moments of the best of entertainment. The squirrels knew the height of Katie's jump. They loved to mock her by coming down the trunk of a tree just out of reach of her excited leaps.

One beautiful spring day, 3 year old Jonah and I sat in the "granny" chair in our master bedroom on the second floor watching a mother squirrel prepare a nest for her coming babies. We were within four feet of this incredible sight. She would run out towards the ends of the branches, snip off a small twig of newly forming leaves and then scurry back to the trunk and up to the "home" site. This was a work of hours. I was so grateful to have a little boy with me to take it all in. Children have a way of renewing our own sense of wonder.

Miniature snow crocus, tulips and daffodils were the first signs of color peeking into the brown world awakening from it's winter sleep. Spring also inspired our dogwoods to burst into magnificent bloom. Our three largest dogwoods were immediately outside of our bay window. I loved to do my written work at the kitchen table facing those treasured trees.

The front of our home provided a wide bed for summer color. Bright pink azaleas, bayberry bushes, hydrangeas, and variegated hostas provided a back drop for a magnificent array of annuals that I would tenderly care for throughout the season. Every now and then we would catch a flash of a vivid blue salamander on our front steps. Garden frogs joined the salamanders enjoying the abundant bug buffet. A variety of colorful dragon flies delighted us in the hot afternoons. Fireflies sparkled across our shrubs in the late evening hours.

Vegetable gardening in Virginia is not that easy. I did manage to hide a couple of tomato and pepper plants in the flower gardens in front of our home as our back yard was not at all conducive to veggie growth. Massive trees completely shaded the landscape behind our home, their extensive root systems working their way through the ground creating quite a trial for our back lawn. I did all I could to meet this struggle for seven years, trying every kind of grass seed, fertilizer and prayer. My complete and utter failure proved to be a very weak attempt to fight what was natural.

Imagine my surprise when the answer to the lawn dilemma came through a Relief Society Activity. One summer, the opportunity came for a small group of us sisters to tour a famous "moss garden" that had been featured in gardening magazines throughout the world. We drove the short distance to the old home where an elderly woman welcomed us and led us into her yard. We walked paths through the terrain marveling at the peace and beauty of a shaded woodland. I learned of many different types of moss that day and came to appreciate the beauty of another of God's green creations.

After years of grass grief, I finally knew the "Virginia way." The last three years we lived in Midlothian, I gave my full support to the variety of mosses that grew naturally across our yard. It was becoming a soft beautiful carpet of magnificent greens just as we had to say good-bye and head west for the challenges of high desert gardening.

I miss my Virginia woodland home. I wonder at the love of Heavenly Father and a Savior Creator. I feel truly blessed.

Momma Ashlee is 30!

2009-03-29T07:24:00.005-06:00

Happy Happy New Year Ashlee Faith!

It seems somehow appropriate that the girl who was almost delivered on the sidewalk of the hospital thirty years ago gets her birthday post a week late. Last Monday I was completely consumed with pain in my neck and shoulder and so the day passed with no effort to blog. However Ashlee Faith was not forgotten!

Our Ashlee tells me often she is living her dream. Husband, children and home are all she ever really wanted. In high-school and college she had her moment of fame in musical theater. It was such a delight to attend her performances. We also thoroughly enjoyed her bubbly spirit as a cheerleader. Now all of that enthusiasm and energy and sweet music is focused in her home.

One of the best birthday presents I ever received was a song from Ashlee. She was living in Charlottesville, Virginia at the time and had come to visit me in Midlothian for my big day. I honestly have never received a nicer gift. For mother's day that year, at my request she returned to Midlothain to sing the same song for my Relief Society group. Ashlee thinks in very giving ways and our whole family has been blessed for it.

Food memories and Seminary

2009-03-15T09:32:00.004-06:00

When I was thirteen I was adopted by my mom and dad - Harry Havelock Smith III and Viola Hansen Smith. My dad served as a Bishop for over 20 years. He was very committed to the youth of our small ward and determined to have all church programs in place for our blessing. One of those important programs was the early morning seminary scripture study program.

Seminary is a four year course of study for high school students. Each year is devoted to a book of scripture with the Old Testament one year, the New Testament another, The Book of Mormon for a third year and The Doctrine and Covenants/Church History for the fourth. Seminary was held very early before school classes began each morning. In southern Alberta winter, this means that the sun hadn't even thought of showing it's face when we would gather to learn the great truths of the holy books of scripture. AND the temperature was often well below freezing. Brrrrr!

My dad was firm on being where you were supposed to be and being on time! In spite of his very heavy work schedule as the owner of a five office business, and hours devoted to the church as a bishop he served as the seminary chauffeur for many many years. Because we were a large family, we had the largest car - a three seat station wagon with a plug dangling from under the hood on the front of the car. Cars were plugged in overnight to keep the engine block from freezing up. Every winter morning dad would unplug the car and start it so it could warm up for his sleepy crew. Often he had to clean many inches of snow off of the car as well. The Smith kids would pile in and we would then make the rounds of the community to pick up the other students before heading to Seminary in Milk River.

Since Earl Rivers High School (Grade 10 - Grade 12) was in Milk River twelve miles north of Coutts, our seminary was held in the basement of the church in Milk River. Sometimes dad would catch a few more winks of sleep while he waited in the car during the seminary hour so he could take the ninth grade students back to Coutts for school. Other mornings he would spend the time taking a brisk walk.

Seminary Food Memory #1 - My Aunt Norma was a fabulous cook and was truly one of my favorite people in the whole world. It was a great blessing that my cousin Jessie was just a year younger than me and thereby one of my fellow travelers on those early morning jaunts. One morning Jessie came to the car with a piece of hot buttered toast lathered in Aunt Norma's home made apple butter. Wow! Every so often Jessie would bring a share of toast for each of us. How I loved my Aunt Norma and to this day I have never tasted better apple butter!

Seminary Food Memory #2 - I have always been a morning person and so I would often get up extra early to do some last minute studying or to do my hair etc. Imagine my surprise when one morning my dad was up and at the stove! My mother's health was not very good at this time and he had determined we needed a good breakfast to start the day. Groan! I never have been one to manage Red River Cereal without a gag and tons of chocolate chips and sugar BUT burnt Red River Cereal was just about the absolute worst! Thankfully dad threw in the towel on this idea after just a few days and I was back to my bowl of Shreddies and milk.

I marvel at the tremendous sacrifice of my dad all of those years. He knew perhaps the Red River Cereal idea wasn't a winner but in spite of any grumblings from the young and often not appreciative he persevered in getting us to Seminary. He loved the scriptures and studied daily from a cherished red bible and his triple combination. It is not surprising he would give so much to be sure the youth of his ward had full opportunity to discover for themselves the power of God's word.

Good for what ails you and other childhood food memories . . .

2009-03-12T09:35:00.006-06:00

My grandmother (Grandma Venice Smith) had just the right ideas about how to take care of me when I was sick. Homemade eggnog, hot milk and cinnamon toast, egg custard and rice pudding were the best medicine by far. This rice pudding recipe is one I have used for my family over the years. I did make eggnog for them when they were little but I do not believe I ever served them hot milk and cinnamon toast.

RICE PUDDING

Slightly beat 4 eggs and set aside.

In a heavy kettle combine: 1 1/4 cup sugar, 2 Tablespoons cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set aside.

Combine 1 can evaporated milk and 4 cups milk. Heat to scald.

Stir hot milk mixture into sugar mixture and cook over medium heat until mixture is thick and smooth. (Stir constantly to avoid scorching.)

Add 4 cups cooked rice. Heat mixture, stirring constantly until it reaches a full boil. Remove from heat.

Slowly whisk a bit of the hot mixture into the beaten eggs to temper the eggs and then stir eggs into the pudding. Return to heat and stir a minute or two until pudding thickens. Remove from heat and add 1 cup raisins, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 2 teaspoons vanilla.

Serve warm or store in the refrigerator. Makes 8 cups of pudding.

HOT MILK ON CINNAMON TOAST

Place a piece of buttery(real butter please :o) hot cinnamon/sugar toast in a flat soup bowl and pour hot milk over it. Yum for the Tum. We would actually have this for supper sometimes as well.

Dinner was our main meal and was served at noon. Supper was a light evening meal. Sometimes for supper we would have bread and milk or crackers and milk. We would break up the crackers or break the bread into bite size pieces and add sugar and milk just the way you do when you eat cereal. Things have sure changed. I think the simple life was good for us. Grandma would also make us vegetable sandwiches - just buttered bread with slices of radishes OR cucumbers OR tomatoes and if you liked some salt and pepper to season - no goopy spreads - Simple and tasty - light and good.

Grandpa (Havelock Smith II) kept horses and a couple of cows. In the evening I would sometimes be the one to walk to the far pasture and drive the cows to the barn for milking. Dean Lybert was a trusted hired hand who would milk the cows for us. If you weren't watching, Dean was sure with his aim and you could end up with a squirt of warm milk on your face.

In my earliest years, the milk was bottled and refrigerated to let the cream rise to the top. Grandma would then skim the cream off to make butter or to pour on fruit or whip for a dessert topping. Later we had what you would call a separator at home. The warm milk would be poured into the funnel, we would turn the wheel and the milk would pour out one spout with the cream separating and pouring out the other spout. Who needed to pay for gym memberships? This was a pretty good workout in and of itself.

I loved my grandmother's spacious kitchen. The black and white tiled floor, the stove/oven island in the middle of the room, the large windows the full length of two walls, the ceramic elf collection on the window shelves, the plants and the warmth of the family gathering spot are vivid memories for me. Pat Evans was hired by my grandparents to help take care of us children and she was wonderful. She worked hard to keep our home clean and in order but more important to me, she would read to us. As we would sit around the kitchen table for breakfast we were entertained with a chapter from a great book of literature. How I treasure the times we were carried into adventure through the written word. I have never lost my love of reading which was fostered there in my grandmother's kitchen.

SIMPLE EGGNOG

Beat an egg and add 1 cup very cold milk, a bit of sugar and a bit of vanilla extract. Whisk together and enjoy.

Fun in the Sun

2009-03-09T16:29:00.028-06:00

I was fortunate to spend the last two weeks of February and the first week of March in Arizona with Carey and Todd's family. Carey fractured a vertebrae in early January. Todd's mom Ellen was there to see her through the first weeks following the accident. She is a true blessing to the Bailey crew. I was able to fly down to help out during Ellen's three week vacation to Seattle.

In spite of a frightening few days, Carey is doing very well and healing nicely. We feel very blessed indeed. Carey was running the family dog while riding her bike. She decided to take a new route and with the leash wrapped around her hand, she went one way and Savannah the other. She was pulled hard off of her bike and suffered some terrific pain. At first it was thought they would be doing surgery and I headed down to Arizona to stay in the hospital with her. Just ten minutes from the Salt Lake airport we got a call saying the neuro-surgeon changed the plan deciding that the bone chip that had been threatening was now in position to simply dissolve without causing harm to the spinal cord. Claigh and I turned the car around and began the three hour drive back to Idaho Falls very grateful for such a tremendous answer to prayers. I rescheduled my flight in order to help out when Ellen left for Seattle.

Carey is sporting a nicely decorated brace these days. The 16/17 year old girls from church thought it could use some sprucing up and hence the pink and white flowers and the crown. How fun is that? In spite of the bold fashion statement, Carey is excited to do away with the thing just three weeks from now. Regardless of the few restrictions she has had, she has managed to keep up with the things that matter most to her - lovingly serving Todd and her children, working as a counselor in the Stake Young Women's Presidency (including the youth conference she was a part of my first weekend there), and giving a listening ear and hugs to friends in need. Oh to be young!

I never like to be away from Claigh but if I must - being with the kids is the only way to go. My only sadness from this trip was to be so close to Jared, Sara and the boys and yet not be able to work out some time together. As the kids grow so do the schedules. On my first Saturday in Gilbert, however I was able to take Carey's youngest four to Sara's Primary Activity in Chandler. Sara has been serving as a counselor in her ward Primary Presidency and was responsible for the planning of the activity. It was very rewarding to see what wonderful work she is doing. In that activity, the children learned about all of the aspects of Family Home Evening and each child left with a kit containing the needs for one family night. It was fun to watch Elijah, Xander, Maxwell, Jennie and Seth decorate their envelopes. Lucy peacefully slept through the activity and Brigham was just thrilled to walk in the shadow of his "Sara." He has a special connection with his Aunt Sara and all of the Anderson boys are favorites of the Bailey crew! Thankfully I was able to get one hug from Jared, Elijah and Xander. Sara and Maxwell were able to spend a couple of lunches with us.

Just trying to keep up with the Bailey laundry was like a blast from the past! It helps me appreciate my daughters even more. How grateful I am that they get to be "at home" moms! Thanks Collins, Todd, Jared and Steve!

Every moment I had with the kids was really appreciated. Jacob is a tall thirteen year old with a generous heart. I enjoyed our rides together to his Crav McGraw class. It was good to see his capacity for following his teacher's instruction. He would try and try again to get particular actions right. Talk about a serious workout! Jacob and I are currently reading the same six book series which has been a special treat for me. These books make you think and I marvel at Jacob's insights.

Noah is growing into a fine young man. It was good to see his sense of loyalty to his brother Jacob. There is nothing like a brother to have your back. It was a lot of fun helping Noah and Jennie get ready for "Decade Day." Noah ended up being only one of two in his class to dress up but he did it with style!

Jensen is a joy. Somehow in this house full of testosterone she manages to come out all girl! She has a sunshine disposition much like her mother's. Her portrayal of a "Star-Belly Sneetch" for "Story Character Day" was a lot of fun but the best thing in the world is a "Jennie hug!"

For his story book character, Seth chose to be a penguin extraordinaire. That boy still loves penguins! Seth also has the "Big Bro" thing down pact and is a great help for his brother Brig and little Lucy. A practical boy who knows the value of a weed pulled, Seth solved the problem of the prickly branches grabbing at his head. He wasn't going to let his opportunity to make some cash escape just because of a little inconvenience!

The Bailey family dog Savannah is a Brig dog for sure. It is really something to watch those two. Savannah is so patient and very appreciative of the companionship. Brig is also sweet with baby Lucy and as previously noted he adores his Aunt Sara. It could also be said he has a passion for cars, trucks and cars! Did I forget to say cars?

I do believe the great communicator of the family will be baby Lucy. She loves to talk and talk and talk. It will be really something once this bubbly child gets a hold of real words. I marvel at her sweet personality and look forward to many conversations to come.

Once again I want to express my deep appreciation to all who included Carey in your prayers. No life is without challenge and we are grateful for a loving Father in Heaven who is mindful of us and so willing to bless.

As cub-master, Todd was responsible for the Pinewood Derby and it was great! I honestly don't think anyone else could have been as much fun for the boys. If the computer world doesn't pan out, he could go for a career at the race track for sure. This was Noah's last derby and that made it extra special!

Thankfully I did get one picture of Maxwell when we met for lunch one day. What a great boy! He really watches out for his little cousin Brig.

Claigh's First Column for the Post Register

2009-03-06T09:59:00.007-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Claigh was contacted by the Post Register of Idaho Falls and asked to consider becoming a feature columnist for the paper's quarterly Family section. The opportunity to speak truth and encouragement to the citizens of the community is wonderful. We love Idaho Falls!

There are a few things I am passionate about. One of my greatest passions is for the well being of children. I love children and want their happiness and success. All that I do in my profession is designed to bless children, including my work with birth parents and adoptive couples. Indeed, not only is adoption a great way to build a family, it is a wonderful way to improve the life of a child.

In today’s society about 98% of unwed mothers choose to parent their baby. In one such case a grandmother became the primary caregiver. It became evident to this loving grandmother that her granddaughter was suffering. She approached her daughter and suggested she consider adoption for her two year old child. Eventually the mother agreed. She came to understand the essence of love is seeking the best interest of another. In this situation it meant that either she had to change her lifestyle and better meet her child’s needs, or she had to give adoption serious consideration. When this child was placed with her adoptive parents a transformation occurred. This precious, and sometimes precocious, little girl is now thriving in the safety, stability, and love her adoptive parents provide. They cherish their daughter, and the light in her eyes indicates the love she feels from them!

The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption (DTF) reports, "There are currently 129,000 foster children waiting to be adopted in the United States and 30,000 children in Canada. The average foster child is 8 years old, and spends about five years in the foster care system. Without the stability and love of a permanent family, these five years can feel like a lifetime."

Regardless of age every child needs a mom and a dad. Children thrive when committed parents place the child's interest before their personal interest. Are you among those capable of providing a child with this type of love?

If you have a passion for the well being of children you can help. Some of those 129,000 foster children live here in Idaho. For older child adoptions the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (H & W) is a great resource. H & W may be easily reached by dialing 2 1 1 or 1 800 926 2588. You provide the love and commitment to the child, Idaho DHW will provide the training and support to help you succeed with your new family!

Few things are as gratifying as blessing the life of a child. After all, you don’t have to be perfect. Loving open hearts and a home they can call their own can make a wonderful difference for a hurting child.

Claigh H. Jensen is a licensed clinical social worker in Idaho and has been working to strengthen and build families for more than 25 years; claigh2@yahoo.com.

This is the note that the editor sent to Claigh when he received the article:
From: Bill Hathaway
To: Claigh H Jensen
Sent: Tuesday, March 3, 2009 10:38:41 AM
Subject: Re: Article

Claigh,
I got the article and it is excellent. Thank you for your contribution; this section is much richer for it. One thing: could you please send me your photo again as a separate jpg or tiff file? Sometimes my software has trouble extracting a photo from Word and preserving pixel quality.

Many thanks, and looking forward to more in the future.

Bill H. 3/3/09

Isaac the Incredible

2009-02-09T07:20:00.009-07:00

What is my most favorite Christmas Santa picture EVER?
Isaac is a true delight! This expressive boy is full of energy and charm. He is one to live every moment to the fullest. They say the eyes are the window to the soul and for Isaac this is particularly true. His passion for life is evident. We are grateful for the energy and light he brings to our family.

Something Yum!

2009-02-08T17:20:00.003-07:00

Cottage Pudding is a family favorite for a winter time treat.

Dinette Cake
1/3 cup softened butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1¼ cups white flour
Mix ingredients together in a large bowl. Beat for 30 seconds on low speed and then on high for 3 minutes. Pour into greased and floured 8" square cake pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

Butter Sauce
½ cup butter
1 cup sugar
¼ cup milk or half and half
Combine ingredients in a sauce pan and cook over low heat stirring constantly until smooth.

To Serve:
Cut the Dinette Cake into serving pieces. Puncture each piece a few times with a fork. Spoon Butter Sauce over the top of servings for a very rich and delicious dessert. Yumm!

I remember: Uncle Frank and Aunt Leah

2009-02-08T06:55:00.012-07:00

I strain to remember much from when I was a child. Perhaps my brain energy was all wrapped up in survival back then. However I do have a few choice memories that are a cherished part of my life. One dear to my heart is the remembrance of Uncle Frank and Aunt Leah Rogers.

Great Aunt Leah was the sister of my Grandpa Harry Havelock Smith II. Uncle Frank Rogers was her true love. This is not overstated. Throughout my young life, Uncle Frank and Aunt Leah were a living example to me of the amazing capacity for love and romance between a man and a woman. They treated each other with such respect and tenderness. I felt some kind of assurance when I would see them out for a walk, hand in hand. This was not young love that I saw but a love that had been nurtured through the years of working together and raising a family.

Close to the time that I lost my first parents, Aunt Leah was my Sunday School teacher. She and another great aunt, Aunt Lucille were team teaching a large group of children. I am not sure just how old we were but I believe I was somewhere between the ages of five and seven. [See my blog post August 31, 2008] These two great women were touches of love and tenderness for me at a time when life was very rough. Aunt Leah had a deep and abiding testimony of the love of our Savior Jesus Christ. I trusted she knew the reality and power of his love for me. Having these great women as my teachers at such a difficult time is another evidence of the tender mercies of the Lord.

Uncle Frank and Aunt Leah owned and operated the Coutts grocery store located a short distance down the street from their home and next door to H.H. Smith Ltd. The Coutts Store was a happy place with only two short aisles as I remember. There was also the meat case, a refrigerator/freezer and a small counter with the old fashioned cash register.

For major shopping, we would travel to Lethbridge sixty-three miles to the north but day to day needs were purchased from our community store. People going in for a quick purchase often ended up staying a while to visit with those who happened to gather at any given time. One of the blessings of small town living in the fifties and sixties is that everyone knew everyone. I loved to go to the store and participate in the camaraderie that exists when people genuinely care for each other. I remember times of laughter and joy when people would discuss an upcoming activity or a recent shared time of fun. It was always good news when someone announced they were expecting or that a child had been born. I remember times of serious reflection when a family faced a hardship or someone died or some community decision needed to be made. My times in Uncle Frank and Aunt Leah's store were times of security for me. They were opportunities for me to comprehend the good in life. I also saw that disagreements could be discussed with respect for varying opinions and thought.

In junior high, I wrote a creative essay on "Gravy Train" a popular dog food of the time. It was recognized and posted along with other students' notable works in the window of Uncle Frank and Aunt Leah's store. When Collette and I would skate board at what we felt were crazy speeds down the hill, we ended at the store. Once my brother David lost control of his downhill ride and fell from his bike into the store window He suffered a serious injury to his cheek. Glass back then was not tempered and thankfully the nasty cut was all he suffered.

This picture was taken when I was five years old - 1957. The large building in the lower half of the picture is the back of Grandpa's Custom Brokerage business, H.H. Smith Ltd. and the building to the right is the Coutts Store. Center left in the picture is the old Port of Entry from Montana into Alberta or vice versa. To the right of that is Grandpa's warehouse where truckers could store goods waiting for clearance through customs.

Another blessing that comes from living in a small community is the sense that every one watches out for everyone. Uncle Frank and Aunt Leah always had their ears and eyes open. I wonder how many young people were shocked at what their parents found out? I love that this dear couple lovingly "informed" parents of possible concerns. Every mom and dad should have such a resource!

Late one night, Uncle Frank was making the short walk from his store to his home when he noticed a different car parked outside our house. The next day he investigated and when he found out whose car it was, he went straight to my parents and told them. They continued the investigation and found that while Collette and I had gone to the high school dance in the car driven by my brother Glenn, we had come home with a couple of boys one who was considered by anyone with an ounce of maturity to be not the kind of boy you would want your daughters to associate with. Of course at that time I could not see the need for concern. Time has a way of opening your eyes however and I am grateful for the watch care of a close community.

Uncle Frank also busted my brother Glenn for having a case of the "squares". What do you do if you're a young boy who wants to try out smoking and the only store in town is owned by your uncle? You have to take drastic action and sneak a pack of cigarettes from the store. Having taken some time to survey the set-up, Glenn tucked a pack into his pocket sure he would go unnoticed. (The bulge created by the pack was an obvious rectangle shape and Uncle Frank confronted Glenn with a "I see you've come down with a case of the squares. I'll never forget the family meeting where Glenn tearfully confessed his sin of stealing and we all forgave him. I am very happy to say, Glenn never did become a smoker.

Elementary school and junior high years were spent attending the Coutts Village School but as we approached Grade Ten, we prepared for the trip to Erle Rivers High in Milk River, twelve miles to the north. LDS students would rise extra early for car-pool to early morning seminary but our ride home was the Coutts Bus. One afternoon just a short distance out of Milk River, the bus began to slow. Ahead we saw a car swerve to the left to avoid something. Our bus driver began to veer to the left as well when to my horror I saw my dear Aunt Leah laying deathly still in the middle of the highway. Her car was off to the side, crashed into a small road post, driver door open. Our bus driver seemed not sure what to do and appeared to determine it was best to keep going. I yelled, "You stop this bus right now," and sank back into my seat, tears filling my eyes. That was all I could do. Some of the other kids quickly got off of the bus and began to see what they could do. They found she was alive but unconscious. Knowing a little about shock, we gathered up some of our coats to keep her warm and waited for help to arrive.

I do not know what caused the one car accident. And I seem to recall that Aunt Leah couldn't remember what had happened. Thankfully she recovered her injuries but it was a long and difficult recovery. Uncle Frank was very attentive. I remember her telling me how he would brush her hair for her. After being released from the hospital, Aunt Leah had on-going trouble with her right arm. Uncle Frank rigged a pulley to a doorway in their home so she could tie her wrist to a rope that went through the pulley and with her other hand pull to raise her injured arm in an attempt to strengthen the weakened muscles. This is what we knew as physical therapy in those days. Uncle Frank also made a visit to me to thank me for stopping the bus. This was another time when I saw the deep love he had for his dear wife.

Uncle Frank was a kind and gentle soul in whom I trusted. I remember his arm softly around my young shoulders as he would reassure or comfort me. When Claigh, baby Cameron and I were were living in Coutts for a short time in 1972, Uncle Frank called to schedule a visit with us. As I anticipated his visit, I was not sure what to make of it all. He came one evening and as we sat in our small living room, he told me he knew there were pieces to the puzzle of my life that I possibly wondered at and he wanted to fill in the blanks if I had any questions. The things Uncle Frank shared with me about my dad David's childhood helped clear up some of my confusion. Again I recognize the tender mercies of the Lord helping me through my Uncle Frank as I continued the work of forgiving my father for taking my mother from me and deserting me himself.

Each life that touches ours for good
Reflects thine own great mercy, Lord;
Thou sendest blessings from above
Thru words and deeds of those who love.

For worthy friends whose lives proclaim
Devotion to the Saviors name,
Who bless our days with peace and love,
We praise thy goodness, Lord above.
- Karen Lynn Davidson

Photo: Aunt Leah and Uncle Frank Rogers & Grandma Venice and Grandpa Harry Havelock Smith

Gideon - Six and Growing

2009-02-05T07:33:00.016-07:00

What a joy! Gideon is a boy who loves to create. The oldest of the "littles" in his family, Gideon can be a big help. He shares the passions of music and cooking with his mom but this "all boy" can really bat with power. We especially appreciate his love for scripture stories and his testimony. Happy Happy Birthday Gideon!

On the road again . . .

2009-02-05T07:11:00.002-07:00

For one who does not care much for shopping, this past week was a bit taxing - pun intended. :o) However, I am very grateful to have my own set of wheels again. It seems at least fifty percent of Idaho Falls residents were involved in car accidents the week I was and that made car rentals tough for some and those of us who were totaled out and needed to buy a good used car had to really keep on our toes for the right opportunity.

It has been years since Claigh and I purchased a "new" car from a dealership. We can't see taking the immediate depreciation hit when you drive off the lot. This does mean you don't necessarily get the exact color you want or the specific features you want when you are forced into a quick buy. We were about to settle for a very nice 2007 Camry with beige leather interior and a red exterior. I really didn't care for the color but it was a very good buy and a great car that would have met our needs nicely.

Fortune smiled upon us and Claigh's fancy turned to a silver 2008 Camry Hybrid. The dealership dropped the price considerably to the point that we were able to purchase it for the same price as a 2009 regular Camry XLS with the Sam's Club discount would have been. Our new silver bullet has only 19,900 miles on it and is in perfect condition. It is an adjustment to have very little trunk space but overall we feel this car will meet our needs and exceed them for years to come. AND I love the fact that I never have to take my remote key from my purse. Just touch the inside of the door handle and the door unlocks, sit in the comfy seat and push the button to start. A bit strange the first time but really very wonderful.

We thank our Father in heaven again and again that I was not killed or injured. It really was a very bad accident. We feel blessed to be in a position to purchase another car. When we think of the thousands of miles we have driven over the past years we humbly thank God for his blessings of safety for us and our family.

Two Cute Will

2009-02-03T03:30:00.005-07:00

This family charmer celebrated his birthday January 31st! Grandma is late with the post but not with the love. With new baby brother Greg, Will is finding life to have really opened up. He is quick in the moment of opportunity to all kinds great fun. This boy can really keep a mother on her toes. He is good at keeping Gracie Dog in line and is happy in a crowd. William Edward Stalcup is a people person for sure. His engaging smile and the twinkle in his eyes can melt any heart in a hurry.

Another Challenge - Another Blessing!

2009-01-24T13:14:00.007-07:00

Yesterday had a great start. I was planning on Visiting Teaching from 9:30 - noon and hoping for a trip to the Rexburg Temple with Claigh for the afternoon followed by a ward party in the early evening. With such a full schedule I needed to get up early to make it to the gym and have my hair washed and styled in time to get Alyssa to work and make our first appointment at 9:30.

Those who know me best know that I do not believe in alarm clocks. I woke on my own feeling very rested at 4:30 a.m. I got ready for my trip to the gym and noticed that we had a fresh six inches of snow. Not wanting to press snow tracks onto the drive, and grateful I was up even earlier than necessary, I shoveled the driveway directly behind the car before I left for my date with Elliptical. After enjoying a good workout and an extended time in my stretching routine (to relax the good ol' shoveling muscles) I headed back out to the parking lot to note another two inches had fallen during my time inside. I brushed off the car and carefully made my way home calling Alyssa on her cell phone to wake her early as it was clear we would have to head for her work with extra time for slow and careful travel.

So far so very good! I made buckwheat pancakes and eggs for breakfast, prepared my lesson for Visiting Teaching and was ready to head out the door by 7:30 to get Alyssa to work. We encountered our share of crazy drivers who are sure they have the best vehicles for inclement weather. - You know, the ones who drive confidently as though there is nothing special about a lot of new snow and ice. However we made our way and she was at work on time. I headed back home to shower and do my hair. I called my companion to let her know that I was already dug out and would be glad to drive. I picked Deanne up at 9:30 and we were on our way to our dear friend who lives just five minutes away on a good travel day.

The 2nd main road that we had to take to get to Beverly had been plowed and was covered in packed hard icy snow. No problem - just take it slow and easy. You will get there. However as we were traveling south, we saw another vehicle approaching traveling north at what to us was far fast for such conditions. The next thing we knew, we saw the Nissan Murano begin to fishtail wildly. I told Deanne "I don't know if we can avoid this but I am going to try." I pulled gently to the right into the ditch, leaned forward and looked towards Deanne to be sure she was Okay.

The young mom was now in a complete spin around and I was there to bring her to a stop and prevent her from rolling. Not fun but I am grateful that she did not roll. She had done a complete U-turn on the road slamming hard into my door with her back end. Not good and yet she and her little girl as well as Deanne and I came away unhurt for the most part. When quiet and calm returned immediately following the "slam", the first thing I heard was the little girl crying. That was honestly the most upsetting part of the whole ordeal. I so wanted her to be Okay. How grateful I am that she was.

I had taken the brunt of the blow. How I remained limp and loose I will never know and how the V of the broken door pressed in and did not hit me I cannot imagine. For some reason my side airbag did not deploy and I have a feeling that is a blessing as well. The shattered glass spread throughout the car but I blocked most of it. As a result My hair was full of glass and glass went down my back. However, because I had turned away from the impending impact, my eyes were completely protected. Other than quite an assortment of pin-prick type cuts on my hands and back and some difficulty getting across the passenger seat to get out of the car, I came away whole.

As for our wonderful Camry, both doors are badly damaged as well as the center bar. There is also minor damage to the front side panel just to the front of the door with damage underneath to the skid plate and wheel well. Also things inside the car came loose or popped out of place because of the power of the impact. The key could not be removed from the ignition and needless to say my door was completely inoperable. It took me a bit to get out because of all of the glass I had inside pricking me in my back and on my hands. Every move seemed to draw a speck of blood from another spot. The tiny shards felt like it feels when you have been working with insulation. How blessed I am that this was the extent of my injuries. (It is even hard to call this injury because it was so very minor.) AND no muscle or body soreness today! Hooray!! Once again I am very grateful.

The police officer, the sweet young mom and her husband and family that arrived soon to help out, my tow-truck operator, Deanne's husband who came to rescue us and get us home - all were true to the wonderful spirit that we find here in Idaho Falls. How incredible it is to be where people are so good, caring, kind and generous. Each who came to the accident site marveled that I was not seriously hurt.

As for Claigh, he was cleaning out the whole neighborhood with his trusty snow-blower, oblivious to my repeated attempts to reach him. He was just finishing up - cleaning the blower and putting it away when Del drove into our drive to drop me off. I told him "I am fine but our car is not." The reports to the police and the our insurance company had already been made, Liberty Mutual had ordered our rental car, the car had been towed to the body shop ready for the assessor, and I was home and ready to get the last of the glass out of my hair and clothing all before he even knew there had been a problem. BUT a lot of snow had been cleared off of our driveway, our neighbor's driveway and an extensive section of sidewalk.

Our visiting teaching is not yet done, Claigh and I didn't make it to the temple, I watched an old movie and went to bed instead of the party and yet - All is well! Perhaps even swell!!

Thirty Eight Years and counting . . .

2009-01-19T13:51:00.004-07:00

Our anniversary this year took an interesting twist. Carey was seriously injured in a bicycle accident on the 14th putting us into an emotional roller-coaster for 24 hours. It is hard to describe the depth of concern you experience when one you love so much is very hurt. Our appeals to friends and family for prayers were sent out in a hurry. How marvelous it is that we have the ability to communicate with so many so quickly.

Initially, reports from Arizona seemed to get worse with each contact. It was a shock for me to hear Carey's voice. My strong daughter was in the midst of a real crisis and it was evident in the strain and anxiety of her voice as she tried to communicate with us. I hung up the phone and disintegrated into tears and prayer.

We made arrangements for me to fly out from Salt Lake first thing the next morning. They were preparing Carey for surgery and so I was to be there with her 24/7 in the hospital. After three hours of sleep, Claigh and I set off on the three and a half hour drive to the Salt Lake Airport. We were both pretty exhausted but felt very grateful to be able to arrange for me to head south on such short notice.

The fog that morning was dense but thankfully the roads were in excellent condition. As we approached the Malad Pass, the fog burned off, another of many blessings of that day. We were approaching the airport with just an hour until the flight was to take off when we got a call from Carey. Her voice actually had some strength in it although it was still reflective of the great ordeal she had been through. The neurosurgeon had determined that they would not have to operate after all. He felt the bone chip that had raised some concern would dissolve on its own and was not in a position to cause damage to the spinal cord. Carey would be fitted with a brace and sent home to recover. The many prayers in her behalf had been answered in a manner far exceeding our hopes.

Claigh and I turned the car around and headed north again. Since we had not yet had a chance to eat, we stopped at a Red Lobster and enjoyed some fish before we made our way to Idaho. I took a turn at the wheel while Claigh got a bit of a nap. We made it back to Idaho Falls in time to pick up Alyssa from work (five minutes late was all.) We were too tired to revive our anniversary plans for the evening and yet we were so deeply and profoundly grateful for the blessings bestowed upon Carey. I will head to Arizona mid February to help out when Ellen leaves for her trip to Seattle.

Once again I find myself in awe of the goodness of Heavenly Father and his response to the pleadings of his children. Not always are our prayers answered in the way we may hope and yet I find that through every trial I am sustained and can see the merciful hand of God. How grateful I am for the prayers of our family and many friends throughout the world. We our our Father's children and we are loved with a love far beyond our comprehension. This I know and trust.

As for 38 years - five beautiful daughters, four fantastic son-in-laws, nineteen delightful grandchildren - We are blessed!

Seth's Seventh

2009-01-10T00:02:00.001-07:00

That's right. - We are blessed with another seven year old in the family and we couldn't be happier! Seth Anthony Bailey is a boy who knows how to have a good laugh. He and Xander can really get into it.

When the Baileys visited Idaho last summer we got to see the "stick to it" side of Seth. At "Bear World" he quietly and patiently followed ducks and chickens around determined to catch one. I really thought he just might succeed. He was completely engrossed in the whole process.

Grandpa led Todd and the boys on a forever trip through the whole of eastern Idaho and into Wyoming in search of a good fishing spot. Seth kept pace with the big boys and that's saying a lot as there was much more walking involved than actual fishing. Seth was the only one who managed a catch for the day. He informed his Grandma that he caught a fish but threw it back because it was only a "fish-stick."

I appreciate Seth's confidence in grandma to prepare something good to eat. Now that's a way to warm my heart. We love the quiet determination of this boy and are excited for his year of preparation for baptism. Happy Happy Birthday Seth.

Home to Idaho to ring in the New Year

2009-01-02T11:01:00.011-07:00

2008 ended with me in Ohio and Claigh in Idaho. This was our first Christmas apart since we were married 38 years ago! The arrival of Gregory Scott was well worth the sacrifice.

I enjoyed my time with Steve, Ashlee and the kids. It is fun to see Christmas through the eyes of children again. The kids were so appreciative of every little thing their mom and dad had done for them and Santa did a great job leaving great surprises for each one. And I was particularly surprised with the gift of a wallet size digital photo album so now I can take pics of my favorite favorites every where I go. How cool is that? Claigh sent me tickets for the Celtic Women "Isle of Hope" concert in Salt Lake City in May. Way neat!

One thing I learned for sure this trip is that for some reason I do not get as much done as quickly as I used to. What's with that? My dad once told me there was a good reason that God sent children to the young. I am really getting it. I marvel at how Ashlee manages her home and family. I did my best to be a help but found myself falling short of what I had hoped. All in all though I sure enjoyed the kids.

Gregory is a little cutie. Will is a bit bigger cutie who knows he is very cute! Kes is full of energy and fun. Spencer is tender and so smart. Bryn is growing into a sweet young lady. We did have an extreme jaundice scare with Gregory but thanks to space age technology, two days on a Belle-Blanket resolved that challenge.

Other Ohio for Christmas enjoyments: Ashlee's yummy White Sauce Chicken Enchiladas, trying and failing at making Steve some of the fudge his mom used to make for him (tasted good but was "chocolate crumbles" instead of fudge), listening to Ashlee and Steve read scriptures to their children, Spencer's Christmas prayer, Christmas church (the kids and I did manage quite well thank-you very much), a Cadbury "Fruit and Nut" chocolate bar in my stocking (smart Santa!), and time with Will before everyone else was up as well as the time with Ashlee and Steve after the kids were in bed for the night.

Bryn, Spencer and I read "The Tale of Despereaux" and followed it up with a trip to the theater to see the movie on the 30th. That was really fun. We ended our last excursion together with a shopping trip to Sam's to try and find some tasty easy prepare meals for their mom in hopes of helping her out for the next while as she adjusts to life with five.

Ashlee was already back to a homeschool schedule by the 29th! It is particularly satisfying to see what an excellent education the children are getting. I even got to spend a wee bit of time with Kes doing her math. That was fun.

I still have hopes of mastering the art of fudge for Steve. I believe a candy thermometer will help. Mary Ann was such a wonderful mom and it would be fun to treat Steve to a special remembrance of her.

December 31st marked my return home to Idaho. The trip was pretty good for the challenges that come from flying during the busiest travel season of the year. My flight in Ohio was delayed a full hour but they held the connecting flight in Chicago so we would not miss out on getting home for New Year's Eve. (Did I mention I love Southwest Airlines.) We landed in Chicago and those of us heading for Salt Lake made a hasty run for our connection. While I made my connecting flight, my luggage did not. I arrived at 3:15 p.m. We had planned it that way so we would be able to make it most of the way home before the sun set. With one mountain pass to traverse this was important.

The combination of living three and a half hours from the airport and the fast approaching New Year's Day holiday presented us with the choice of Fed-Ex delivering my luggage three days later or us waiting for the in-coming flights to see if my bags would make it. We opted for wait and see.

Todd and Carey had told us of a great Mexican restaurant in Ogden that I have wanted to try. Having only five minutes to make my connection in Chicago, I had not eaten a good meal yet and so we decided to head for "The Sonora Grill". Good Choice! The stacked enchiladas were fabulous and I don't think we will ever be able to order a banana split anywhere else ever! It was amazing!!

After dinner, we headed back to the airport in hopes that my luggage had made the 7:00 p.m. flight. It hadn't come in. We then drove back into Salt Lake City and past Temple Square but what was already a fifteen and a half hour day left me too tired to get out and walk about. That was a bit disappointing but we did see the lights from the car and they were beautiful.

Claigh and I arrived back at the airport at 8:00 p.m. Thankfully the wait paid off! We headed home with Claigh pretty tired and me flat out exhausted but thankfully the roads were clear and there was no new snowfall. We pulled into our driveway at 11:40 p.m., unpacked the car and welcomed the New Year in together at home! At midnight our neighbors even set off fireworks in honor of my return! Okay - I am sure they were a welcome for the new year but it sure felt like a welcome home for me.

When I consider the thousands of miles our family has safely traveled over the years, I am deeply grateful for answered prayers. I am thankful for our daughters and their families. It is a blessing to be able to share special times together with the miracle of modern transportation and communication technologies. Wow!

One More December Blessing

2009-01-02T10:29:00.002-07:00

This is late due to a lengthy December 31st effort to get back to my Idaho home but the spirit of "celebrate Brynja" is as strong as ever! Brynja was born the last day of the 20th century and has already made a mark on the 21st with her sweet and lovely ways. The oldest of the Stalcup siblings, Bryn is a natural with the little ones. She is able to tenderly and patiently hold Gregory even when he himself isn't feeling too very calm. What a blessing this is to a mom of five!

The family dog "Gracie2" loves to run along side Bryn's scooter as they speed down the street. It is hard to be sure whether Bryn or Ashlee is the favored "master." Bryn loves beautiful things, stitchery, flower arranging, and thoroughly enjoys Activity Nights at church. Perhaps one of her favorite pastimes is reading. It is amazing how many books she manages in a week's time.

This lovely nine year old is truly dear to her Grandpa and Grandma Jensen