Reunion 2009 Part 2

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 . . .

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 . . .

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

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

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

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!

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!

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!

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

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!

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!

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

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!

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

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.