I feel exactly like this.... my new theme song. Listen closely.... maybe a few times.
UPDATE: The link will be taken off YouTube eventually, so if it doesn't work, search on YouTube.com for "Anita Renfroe William Tell."
September 27, 2007
September 25, 2007
I've Been Tagged
So, I've been tagged, and because I like Jen, I will respond, even though I don't want to.
5 Things I was doing 10 years ago...
1) Learning to be a new wife.
2) Building a house (the one we live in now).
3) Working full-time for my dad's company.
4) Dreaming of having children.
5) Teaching the Mia Maids in Lindsay Ward.
5 Things on my "to-do" list today....
1) Go to Adult Institute at the Stake Center (loved it, as usual).
2) Get a poster laminated at Teaching Tools (done).
3) Make visiting teaching appointments (actually, my companion did).
4) Visit neighbor who just had her first baby (still pending).
5 snacks I enjoy....
1) Smoothies made of mixed frozen fruit and skim milk.
2) Unsalted chips and fresh chunky salsa.
3) Whole grain pita chips and roasted garlic hummus.
4) Fresh fruit.
5) Chocolate and peanut butter
5 things I would do if I were a billionaire...
1) Be a philanthropist.
2) Be a philanthropist.
3) Be a philanthropist.
4) Be a philanthropist.
5) Be a philanthropist.
5 bad habits...
1) Procrastinating
2) Biting my nails
3) Interrupting my husband
4) Taking too long to say what I want to say
5) Eating when I'm not hungry
5 things I would never wear again.... (notice the non-committal "would" rather than "will")
1) Jelly shoes
2) Polo shirt with collar flipped up, and a strand or two of bright colored beads
3) "Skinny jeans" (unless I can ever wear a size 0)
4) Enormous shoulder pads
5) Neon colors from head to toe
5 of my favorite toys....
1) iPod
2) ClearPlay DVD player
3) My new washer and dryer
4) My Steinway grand piano
5) Computer
5 people I tag.... (sorry if you've done this before)
1) Emily
2) Cindy
3) Sarah
4) Melissa
5) Laura
If I didn't tag you, you can still do it... if you want to.
5 Things I was doing 10 years ago...
1) Learning to be a new wife.
2) Building a house (the one we live in now).
3) Working full-time for my dad's company.
4) Dreaming of having children.
5) Teaching the Mia Maids in Lindsay Ward.
5 Things on my "to-do" list today....
1) Go to Adult Institute at the Stake Center (loved it, as usual).
2) Get a poster laminated at Teaching Tools (done).
3) Make visiting teaching appointments (actually, my companion did).
4) Visit neighbor who just had her first baby (still pending).
5 snacks I enjoy....
1) Smoothies made of mixed frozen fruit and skim milk.
2) Unsalted chips and fresh chunky salsa.
3) Whole grain pita chips and roasted garlic hummus.
4) Fresh fruit.
5) Chocolate and peanut butter
5 things I would do if I were a billionaire...
1) Be a philanthropist.
2) Be a philanthropist.
3) Be a philanthropist.
4) Be a philanthropist.
5) Be a philanthropist.
5 bad habits...
1) Procrastinating
2) Biting my nails
3) Interrupting my husband
4) Taking too long to say what I want to say
5) Eating when I'm not hungry
5 things I would never wear again.... (notice the non-committal "would" rather than "will")
1) Jelly shoes
2) Polo shirt with collar flipped up, and a strand or two of bright colored beads
3) "Skinny jeans" (unless I can ever wear a size 0)
4) Enormous shoulder pads
5) Neon colors from head to toe
5 of my favorite toys....
1) iPod
2) ClearPlay DVD player
3) My new washer and dryer
4) My Steinway grand piano
5) Computer
5 people I tag.... (sorry if you've done this before)
1) Emily
2) Cindy
3) Sarah
4) Melissa
5) Laura
If I didn't tag you, you can still do it... if you want to.
September 13, 2007
Last Chance
Last weekend, my little brother, Stephen, and his cute fiance, Leone (rhymes with peony) were in town, visiting from Seattle. As usual, he made a trip to Last Chance (I think it is the only reason he comes to visit). Since we were headed over to that part of town for a barbeque on Saturday at my older brother's house, Jay and I couldn't resist making the kids suffer through a little "Last Chance" purgatory.
Jay headed for men's wear, while I hit the shoe department. After loading up my cart with shoes (I only bought one pair in the end, but they are super cute red flats), I headed toward the clothing and ran into Stephen who showed me his finds.
Stephen told me that he had seen Jay holding 3 dress shirts that he was planning to buy, and that Jay had said I wouldn't be too happy about it. He was obviously a little confused by that. I sighed, and then explained, "Well, you see, Jay already has about 50 dress shirts at home." Stephen laughed. He thought I was joking. I'm not.
Yes, Jay wears a dress shirt to work every day, so he needs to have plenty. But, hey, I do laundry at least once a week! Recently, Jay explained to me that he fears "Last Chance" might pick up and leave (after all, it's the only one in the country) and then how would he get his preferred shirts (these and these) for only $9.97? So, I stopped bugging him about it. Sort of.
I have been known to exaggerate on occasion (mostly when I was a teenager, but I've gotten over it, so give me a break please!) but I'm not exaggerating about Jay's shirts.
Well, maybe a little. I went and counted them, and he only has..... 46.... (probably because I insisted he get rid of some of them at our garage sale recently). So sue me!
But don't get me started on his shoes!
Jay headed for men's wear, while I hit the shoe department. After loading up my cart with shoes (I only bought one pair in the end, but they are super cute red flats), I headed toward the clothing and ran into Stephen who showed me his finds.
Stephen told me that he had seen Jay holding 3 dress shirts that he was planning to buy, and that Jay had said I wouldn't be too happy about it. He was obviously a little confused by that. I sighed, and then explained, "Well, you see, Jay already has about 50 dress shirts at home." Stephen laughed. He thought I was joking. I'm not.
Yes, Jay wears a dress shirt to work every day, so he needs to have plenty. But, hey, I do laundry at least once a week! Recently, Jay explained to me that he fears "Last Chance" might pick up and leave (after all, it's the only one in the country) and then how would he get his preferred shirts (these and these) for only $9.97? So, I stopped bugging him about it. Sort of.
I have been known to exaggerate on occasion (mostly when I was a teenager, but I've gotten over it, so give me a break please!) but I'm not exaggerating about Jay's shirts.
Well, maybe a little. I went and counted them, and he only has..... 46.... (probably because I insisted he get rid of some of them at our garage sale recently). So sue me!
But don't get me started on his shoes!
The Break-up
Dear John (1),
The last 10 years were good ones. You were always there for me. Don't take this personally, but it's just not working (2) for me anymore.
I can no longer put up with your complaining (3). It's time for you to move on (4). I'm sure you will find someone else who will take you (5).
Don't try to change my mind, because you can't. I have already found someone new (6), and we are deeply in love. He cares about the environment (7), takes up much less space and is much taller (8). My life (9) is so much better now. Yes, he has already moved in, which is why you have been sleeping on the back porch.
Goodbye forever. I hope I never see you again.
Regards,
Alice
1) My old washer and dryer.
2) Your drying function.
3) The loud noise you make during the spin cycle.
4) To a landfill... or perhaps a parts shop.
5) If I put you on the curb, I'm sure someone will pick you up.
6) Whirlpool Duet Sport.
7) Uses one third the water, and dries in half the time.
8) Because they stack!
9) My laundry room.
The last 10 years were good ones. You were always there for me. Don't take this personally, but it's just not working (2) for me anymore.
I can no longer put up with your complaining (3). It's time for you to move on (4). I'm sure you will find someone else who will take you (5).
Don't try to change my mind, because you can't. I have already found someone new (6), and we are deeply in love. He cares about the environment (7), takes up much less space and is much taller (8). My life (9) is so much better now. Yes, he has already moved in, which is why you have been sleeping on the back porch.
Goodbye forever. I hope I never see you again.
Regards,
Alice
1) My old washer and dryer.
2) Your drying function.
3) The loud noise you make during the spin cycle.
4) To a landfill... or perhaps a parts shop.
5) If I put you on the curb, I'm sure someone will pick you up.
6) Whirlpool Duet Sport.
7) Uses one third the water, and dries in half the time.
8) Because they stack!
9) My laundry room.
British Humour
A CONVERSATION I HAD WITH JACK THIS MORNING:
"Mommy, what is that you are putting under your arms?"
"It's called deodorant."
Jack nodded wisely, as if he knew exactly what I was talking about, and said, "Ooohhhh! De-ogre-ant."
I think he must have been thinking of one of his favorite story books.... "A Box of Ogres," by Tim Healey, and illustrated by Charles Fuge (published in Great Britain in 1991). I would tell you to run out and buy it, but you can't. It's nearly impossible to find. Knowing how much I love children's books, my sister bought it for me when she went to England as a college student, probably 15 plus years ago. (Thank you Helena!)
My kids love the book for it's crazy story and fun illustrations. And we all get a kick out of the funny British phrases, such as "Nip down to the corner shop," and "How would you like a nice, tasty lad to eat?" and "She handed me a five-pound note," and "I daren't think what they're doing to my kitchen." Plus, the use of words like "Mum" (for "Mom"), "dustbin" and "flabbergasted" are a treat. I enjoy reading it in my (pretty decent) British accent.
If you want to make an attempt to find this charming book, you will have to visit the UK, or find some amazing online book shop (which has so far eluded me) with a used copy for sale. (Yes, I already tried Amazon UK.) Sorry.
Though I did find it available from one library... in South Perth, Australia.
"Mommy, what is that you are putting under your arms?"
"It's called deodorant."
Jack nodded wisely, as if he knew exactly what I was talking about, and said, "Ooohhhh! De-ogre-ant."
I think he must have been thinking of one of his favorite story books.... "A Box of Ogres," by Tim Healey, and illustrated by Charles Fuge (published in Great Britain in 1991). I would tell you to run out and buy it, but you can't. It's nearly impossible to find. Knowing how much I love children's books, my sister bought it for me when she went to England as a college student, probably 15 plus years ago. (Thank you Helena!)
My kids love the book for it's crazy story and fun illustrations. And we all get a kick out of the funny British phrases, such as "Nip down to the corner shop," and "How would you like a nice, tasty lad to eat?" and "She handed me a five-pound note," and "I daren't think what they're doing to my kitchen." Plus, the use of words like "Mum" (for "Mom"), "dustbin" and "flabbergasted" are a treat. I enjoy reading it in my (pretty decent) British accent.
If you want to make an attempt to find this charming book, you will have to visit the UK, or find some amazing online book shop (which has so far eluded me) with a used copy for sale. (Yes, I already tried Amazon UK.) Sorry.Though I did find it available from one library... in South Perth, Australia.
September 07, 2007
August 23, 2007
Excuses, Excuses
Yes, I know, I know. I'm sorry I haven't been blogging. But honestly, I simply don't have time. Believe it or not, once my kids went back to school, life got even crazier. Here is what is keeping me busy right now.
- Organizing a Uhaul trailer sized pile of materials for my music classes, and teaching said music classes to preschoolers and kindergarteners. (Is that a word?)
- Researching, comparing prices, and scheduling inflatables for the school fall festival.
- Trying to figure out how to be the treasurer for our school parent organization, collecting dues and money for school shirts, and making deposits almost daily since school started. I also need to research and update the software too, and organize the files, and close out the end of the fiscal year (June), and create new budgets for the new fiscal year, and a lot of other stuff I'm not aware of yet.
- Driving kids to school, preschool, playgroup, gymnastics, and, starting next month, ballet lessons. (Thankfully, Collin can ride his bike to piano lessons and Cub Scouts.) Oh, and picking them up again.
- Pestering my kids to do their homework, practice the piano, clean their bedrooms, and rinse off their dishes.
- Researching and shopping for a new washer and dryer after our 10-year-old set died, taking apart my laundry room and reconfiguring it for the new machines... and putting it back together.
- Organizing the "Art Masterpiece" and "Music Masterpiece" programs for our school for the 2007-2008 school year.
- Preparing a show for the musical theatre performing group for kids I've started; assigning solos and speaking parts, figuring out how to record my voice singing the songs on CD for the kids to practice with (and burning the CD's), typing lyrics for the kids to take home, choreographing the musical numbers, designing and creating scenery, finding a venue for the performance and possibly acquiring a sound system (depending on the venue).
- Planning various Sharing Time lessons.
- Trying to find time to play with and read to Jack.
I don't even like to think about all the other things I need to do that aren't getting done.
So, I don't have time to blog right now. It will just have to wait. But I promise that when things calm down I will tell you all about the above, plus our trip to the ranch, and more. Just be patient.
- Organizing a Uhaul trailer sized pile of materials for my music classes, and teaching said music classes to preschoolers and kindergarteners. (Is that a word?)
- Researching, comparing prices, and scheduling inflatables for the school fall festival.
- Trying to figure out how to be the treasurer for our school parent organization, collecting dues and money for school shirts, and making deposits almost daily since school started. I also need to research and update the software too, and organize the files, and close out the end of the fiscal year (June), and create new budgets for the new fiscal year, and a lot of other stuff I'm not aware of yet.
- Driving kids to school, preschool, playgroup, gymnastics, and, starting next month, ballet lessons. (Thankfully, Collin can ride his bike to piano lessons and Cub Scouts.) Oh, and picking them up again.
- Pestering my kids to do their homework, practice the piano, clean their bedrooms, and rinse off their dishes.
- Researching and shopping for a new washer and dryer after our 10-year-old set died, taking apart my laundry room and reconfiguring it for the new machines... and putting it back together.
- Organizing the "Art Masterpiece" and "Music Masterpiece" programs for our school for the 2007-2008 school year.
- Preparing a show for the musical theatre performing group for kids I've started; assigning solos and speaking parts, figuring out how to record my voice singing the songs on CD for the kids to practice with (and burning the CD's), typing lyrics for the kids to take home, choreographing the musical numbers, designing and creating scenery, finding a venue for the performance and possibly acquiring a sound system (depending on the venue).
- Planning various Sharing Time lessons.
- Trying to find time to play with and read to Jack.
I don't even like to think about all the other things I need to do that aren't getting done.
So, I don't have time to blog right now. It will just have to wait. But I promise that when things calm down I will tell you all about the above, plus our trip to the ranch, and more. Just be patient.
August 16, 2007
Just Jack
Jack had his first day of preschool yesterday. (Yikes! My baby!) He had a great time and came home wearing his "space helmet."
I can't believe it's just me and Jack at home for most of the day!
As I was in the bathroom getting ready this morning, Jack came in and we had the following conversation:
Jack: Mommy, I have to go to the bathroom.
Me: OK.
Jack: But just p**p.
Me: OK.
Jack: I'll go in the other bathroom.
Me: OK. (thanks!)
Jack: But mommy, don't talk on the phone.
Me: O .... huh?
Jack and I have been enjoying spending time together reading and playing, and running errands. He has no older siblings to fight with, which is nice. He has turned out to be quite busy, with music class on Monday (with me.... more about that later), Institute on Tuesday (actually, that's for me... with the ladies in our stake.... but he gets to play in the nursery), preschool on Wednesday, playgroup with his neighbor friends on Thursday, and preschool again on Friday. It gives me an hour or two for myself on a few mornings, but boy it flies by fast!
I can't believe it's just me and Jack at home for most of the day!As I was in the bathroom getting ready this morning, Jack came in and we had the following conversation:
Jack: Mommy, I have to go to the bathroom.
Me: OK.
Jack: But just p**p.
Me: OK.
Jack: I'll go in the other bathroom.
Me: OK. (thanks!)
Jack: But mommy, don't talk on the phone.
Me: O .... huh?
Jack and I have been enjoying spending time together reading and playing, and running errands. He has no older siblings to fight with, which is nice. He has turned out to be quite busy, with music class on Monday (with me.... more about that later), Institute on Tuesday (actually, that's for me... with the ladies in our stake.... but he gets to play in the nursery), preschool on Wednesday, playgroup with his neighbor friends on Thursday, and preschool again on Friday. It gives me an hour or two for myself on a few mornings, but boy it flies by fast!
August 10, 2007
The First Day of School
Yesterday was the first day of the new school year. Collin and Mary were very excited.... and a little nervous. Jay gave them each (including Jack, who starts preschool next week) a very nice father's blessing the night before. I couldn't resist peeking at Jack, who had his eyes shut tightly, and a huge grin on his face. He was obviously very pleased. 
Mary had a nice experience. Afterward she told me she felt all tingly, and I was happy to explain to her that she was feeling the spirit. She was absolutely beaming.
Mary had a nice experience. Afterward she told me she felt all tingly, and I was happy to explain to her that she was feeling the spirit. She was absolutely beaming.
Better Late Than Never
Thanks to Sarah, I have some pictures of our latest trip to Sedona, and Mary's 6th Birthday. Thank you! Thank you!
The first (and last) time I ever bought a birthday cake instead of making it from scratch.
The first (and last) time I ever bought a birthday cake instead of making it from scratch.
Ohio Trip - Part 5
(continued)
Day 6 - Monday, July 16th
We decided to check out some antiques stores before we left, so we explored (with "Helga's" help) the Lorain Avenue Antiques district in Cleveland. Wow. I'm not an antiques expert, but I couldn't believe how many shops there were in one place, and how many amazing things each shop had!
I was especially taken in by "Century Antiques." They had the most gorgeous architectural items.... chandeliers, mantle pieces, etc.
And the vintage department store Suite Lorain was quite fun. I was excited to add 2 sets to my growing Salt & Pepper shaker collection.... for a mere $20 total. (I will blog about that one of these days.)
We met back up with my parents and the Barazotos at the Visitors' Center, and spent a little more time there and in the N.K. Whitney store which was fascinating.
After lunch, my parents went to work their afternoon shift as park rangers (they were asked to volunteer as part of their missionary service) giving tours at the stone quarry where the stone for the Kirtland Temple was procurred.
So, the rest of us drove over to nearby Headlands Beach on Lake Erie and spent the afternoon there. Until he put his swim suit on, Jack felt it necessary to pull up his shorts (which were already higher than mid-thigh) to keep the water off, since I had pushed up my capris, and Mary was lifting her skirt. (I love his little tan line.)
Mary got a kick out of the waves and swimming out to "sea" with cousin Maddy.
Jack had fun trying to skip rocks, showing rocks to Daddy, and couldn't stop giggling every time a wave hit him.
Collin had a great time playing in the sand (and "surf") with his cousins.
And the boys discovered some "sea weed." 
We all had a great time, and the kids were reluctant to leave.
We joined my parents at the stone quarry (Chapin Forest Preserve) and had a cookout for dinner, and enjoyed the lovely scenery.
That evening we (the adults) were fortunate to be able to attend a special event in the Kirtland Temple. Every year, the Community of Christ puts on a hymn festival honoring Emma Smith, wife of Joseph Smith, who compiled hymns for the early saints. We sang several hymns as a group (including, of course, "The Spirit of God") and listened to a choir of the young sister missionaries (who did a beautiful job), and a local soloist who sang "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief." In between, different speakers gave the history of each of the hymns. It was a very nice event, and I'm so glad we our trip coincided with this annual event. 
Afterward Dad took us all out for ice cream at Malley's which was a great way to end our lovely trip. We left for the airport early the next morning. We had such a wonderful time, and were very sad to leave. My parents were terrific hosts, and everything was absolutely perfect. Honestly, I wouldn't have changed a single thing.
Day 6 - Monday, July 16th
We decided to check out some antiques stores before we left, so we explored (with "Helga's" help) the Lorain Avenue Antiques district in Cleveland. Wow. I'm not an antiques expert, but I couldn't believe how many shops there were in one place, and how many amazing things each shop had!
I was especially taken in by "Century Antiques." They had the most gorgeous architectural items.... chandeliers, mantle pieces, etc.
And the vintage department store Suite Lorain was quite fun. I was excited to add 2 sets to my growing Salt & Pepper shaker collection.... for a mere $20 total. (I will blog about that one of these days.)
We met back up with my parents and the Barazotos at the Visitors' Center, and spent a little more time there and in the N.K. Whitney store which was fascinating.
After lunch, my parents went to work their afternoon shift as park rangers (they were asked to volunteer as part of their missionary service) giving tours at the stone quarry where the stone for the Kirtland Temple was procurred.So, the rest of us drove over to nearby Headlands Beach on Lake Erie and spent the afternoon there. Until he put his swim suit on, Jack felt it necessary to pull up his shorts (which were already higher than mid-thigh) to keep the water off, since I had pushed up my capris, and Mary was lifting her skirt. (I love his little tan line.)
Mary got a kick out of the waves and swimming out to "sea" with cousin Maddy.
Jack had fun trying to skip rocks, showing rocks to Daddy, and couldn't stop giggling every time a wave hit him.
Collin had a great time playing in the sand (and "surf") with his cousins.
And the boys discovered some "sea weed." 
We all had a great time, and the kids were reluctant to leave.
We joined my parents at the stone quarry (Chapin Forest Preserve) and had a cookout for dinner, and enjoyed the lovely scenery.
That evening we (the adults) were fortunate to be able to attend a special event in the Kirtland Temple. Every year, the Community of Christ puts on a hymn festival honoring Emma Smith, wife of Joseph Smith, who compiled hymns for the early saints. We sang several hymns as a group (including, of course, "The Spirit of God") and listened to a choir of the young sister missionaries (who did a beautiful job), and a local soloist who sang "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief." In between, different speakers gave the history of each of the hymns. It was a very nice event, and I'm so glad we our trip coincided with this annual event. 
Afterward Dad took us all out for ice cream at Malley's which was a great way to end our lovely trip. We left for the airport early the next morning. We had such a wonderful time, and were very sad to leave. My parents were terrific hosts, and everything was absolutely perfect. Honestly, I wouldn't have changed a single thing.
August 09, 2007
Ohio Trip - Part 4
(continued)
Day 5 - Sunday, July 15th
We attended the Kirtland Ward sacrament meeting in the morning. It was fun to see Darin's (my sister-in-law) parents, the Brians, who are also serving in Kirtland. (Her dad is the director of the Visitors' Center.) The ward had been divided the week before, and the bishop was getting new counselors. Because he had been without counselors all week, he had been pretty stressed out.
After church we went with my sister's family over to the Community of Christ (formerly the "Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" -- they officially changed their name in 2000) visitors' center so that we could take a tour of the Kirtland Temple -- since they "own" it. It was very.... different.
I mean different than what I'm used to, meaning LDS visitors' centers and tours. First of all, they ask you to pay a fee. [It's only $2 a person, but it's the principle that bothers me. They say it's for the preservation of the Temple. It doesn't seem like they have done a very good job of it, but they do have a brand new visitors' center. Hm. Oh well.]
After watching a film in the visitors' center, the guide takes you through the temple. It is a beautiful building, and it is wonderful to see. I just wish that instead the tours could be given my LDS missionaries, who would bear testimony and invite the spirit.
Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and professional, but you didn't get the sense that the Kirtland Temple was special or important to him... it was just a job. When he briefly mentioned the appearance of heavenly beings, he did so without any feeling. It left me feeling sort of let down.
On the other hand, you can visit a place like the Whitney store and feel a powerful outpouring of the spirit. But still, the Kirtland Temple is a special place where very important things occurred, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to visit it.
That afternoon was the highlight of our trip. Collin had been waiting for this for months. He was finally baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by his dad in Kirtland, Ohio at the stake center, along with his cousin (and best friend) Brett. It was a very nice program. 
[A few days before we found out that there would be a couple of extra children baptized that day. The sister missionaries had been teaching the 11-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter of a recent convert from Germany. They had planned to be baptized on Saturday, the day before. But when the ward was divided and the bishop was suddenly without counselors and overwhelmed with reorganizing his ward, he asked if they could combine with our program on Sunday to simplify things for him. So, it was going to be a very small affair with just our two families and my parents, but we ended up with a full house, with several families there from the Kirtland Ward to support the new members.]
My mom spoke first about baptism, and did a wonderful job speaking to the children, as she always does. She had them completely captivated. Then Collin and Brett sang a duet, "If The Savior Stood Beside Me." It was so beautiful, and I was so proud of them.
After the baptisms, my dad spoke about the Holy Ghost, and really got the kids involved thinking about the ways they feel the spirit. [My parents are amazing. I am so grateful to have been raised by such wonderful people.]
Then the confirmations took place [Jay gave a wonderful blessing. I was so proud of him, and grateful that he is the father of my children], and Bishop Packer made some brief remarks. It was a wonderful experience. It would have been great no matter where it took place, but it was extra special to be in Kirtland, and I'm so glad my parents could be there.
After dinner and birthday cake for my nephew, Jacob, who was celebrating his 15th birthday, we went for a drive through lovely Kirtland and the gorgeous neighboring village of Waite Hill. Wow.
We ended up at Squire's Castle, where we spent a little time looking around, walking in the woods, and the kids had a blast pretending to be in a real medieval castle. 
Day 5 - Sunday, July 15th
We attended the Kirtland Ward sacrament meeting in the morning. It was fun to see Darin's (my sister-in-law) parents, the Brians, who are also serving in Kirtland. (Her dad is the director of the Visitors' Center.) The ward had been divided the week before, and the bishop was getting new counselors. Because he had been without counselors all week, he had been pretty stressed out.
After church we went with my sister's family over to the Community of Christ (formerly the "Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" -- they officially changed their name in 2000) visitors' center so that we could take a tour of the Kirtland Temple -- since they "own" it. It was very.... different.
I mean different than what I'm used to, meaning LDS visitors' centers and tours. First of all, they ask you to pay a fee. [It's only $2 a person, but it's the principle that bothers me. They say it's for the preservation of the Temple. It doesn't seem like they have done a very good job of it, but they do have a brand new visitors' center. Hm. Oh well.]
After watching a film in the visitors' center, the guide takes you through the temple. It is a beautiful building, and it is wonderful to see. I just wish that instead the tours could be given my LDS missionaries, who would bear testimony and invite the spirit.Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and professional, but you didn't get the sense that the Kirtland Temple was special or important to him... it was just a job. When he briefly mentioned the appearance of heavenly beings, he did so without any feeling. It left me feeling sort of let down.
On the other hand, you can visit a place like the Whitney store and feel a powerful outpouring of the spirit. But still, the Kirtland Temple is a special place where very important things occurred, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to visit it.
That afternoon was the highlight of our trip. Collin had been waiting for this for months. He was finally baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by his dad in Kirtland, Ohio at the stake center, along with his cousin (and best friend) Brett. It was a very nice program. 
[A few days before we found out that there would be a couple of extra children baptized that day. The sister missionaries had been teaching the 11-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter of a recent convert from Germany. They had planned to be baptized on Saturday, the day before. But when the ward was divided and the bishop was suddenly without counselors and overwhelmed with reorganizing his ward, he asked if they could combine with our program on Sunday to simplify things for him. So, it was going to be a very small affair with just our two families and my parents, but we ended up with a full house, with several families there from the Kirtland Ward to support the new members.] My mom spoke first about baptism, and did a wonderful job speaking to the children, as she always does. She had them completely captivated. Then Collin and Brett sang a duet, "If The Savior Stood Beside Me." It was so beautiful, and I was so proud of them.
After the baptisms, my dad spoke about the Holy Ghost, and really got the kids involved thinking about the ways they feel the spirit. [My parents are amazing. I am so grateful to have been raised by such wonderful people.]Then the confirmations took place [Jay gave a wonderful blessing. I was so proud of him, and grateful that he is the father of my children], and Bishop Packer made some brief remarks. It was a wonderful experience. It would have been great no matter where it took place, but it was extra special to be in Kirtland, and I'm so glad my parents could be there.
After dinner and birthday cake for my nephew, Jacob, who was celebrating his 15th birthday, we went for a drive through lovely Kirtland and the gorgeous neighboring village of Waite Hill. Wow.
We ended up at Squire's Castle, where we spent a little time looking around, walking in the woods, and the kids had a blast pretending to be in a real medieval castle. 
July 31, 2007
The End of the Summer
We went back to the cabins in Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon again over the weekend. We had a great time. The weather was lovely, and we had wonderful people (her and her and their families, plus J & K) to share it with. We also celebrated Mary's 6th birthday. (I forgot to bring my camera. Bummer.)
We still have one more (whew) vacation this summer. Tomorrow we are off to the ranch in New Mexico for 5 days. And then school starts! Yikes! I won't be blogging again until after that. I promise I will finish my "Ohio Trip" posts then.
We still have one more (whew) vacation this summer. Tomorrow we are off to the ranch in New Mexico for 5 days. And then school starts! Yikes! I won't be blogging again until after that. I promise I will finish my "Ohio Trip" posts then.
July 26, 2007
Ohio Trip - Part 3
(continued)
Day 4 - Saturday, July 14th
First thing after breakfast we headed down south to Hiram, Ohio, to the Johnson Farm, where the prophet Joseph Smith lived for a while and received some of the revelations contained in the Doctrine and Covenants. It was wonderful to tour the home and grounds and feel the spirit of the great work of the gospel going forth.
The kids were impressed with a huge rock at the farm. It was just sitting there in the middle of a large lawn.... waiting for some curious children to climb aboard...... and then jump!
Then we drove back through more Amish areas.... Middlefield and Mesopotamia. I was amused by the name when my dad said we were going there, but I laughed out loud when I saw this funny sign outside the cute old-fashioned general store, "End of the Commons," in Mespo (as it is affectionately called). Click on it for a closer look.
I enjoyed looking at the merchandise catering to the Amish, and again couldn't resist purchasing a few small items... a delicious granola, whole wheat "ABC" pasta, and a bean soup mix.
Grandpa treated us all to tasty old-fashioned rootbeer.
While we sipped our sodas, my dad, not surprisingly, introduced himself to this fellow parked outside the store, and spent about 15 minutes quizzing him about his horse.
We got a kick out of the little barefoot Amish boys (they looked about 9 or 10 years old) who rode up to the market in their tiny 2-wheeled buggy pulled by a pony, bought ice cream and rootbeer (for floats?) and headed off again... much faster than a bike or scooter.
When we got back to Kirtland, my parents had to work an afternoon shift at the Isaac Morley Farm. Since it's pretty quiet there, and they have a private, roomy office, my mom suggested that we leave the kids with them for a few hours while Jay and I went in to Cleveland, about 20 minutes from Kirtland. Jay really wanted to go to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and it sounded fun. It's interesting....and pricey.... and much larger than I expected! We were there for several hours, and we practically ran through, and we still didn't see everything.
We returned to find our children completely enchanted by "Grandma's Magical World." My mom has this way of making every little thing seem magical and exciting. She is amazing that way. She had shown them a "fairy land" behind the office.... a small grassy circular area surrounded by trees and shrubs, and plenty of wildlife. My Mary was thoroughly convinced that fairies would come out when it got dark. Grandma Mary is the ultimate enchantress!
We also explored this little secret garden hidden in the side of a hill, long over grown. It was very mysterious, and the kids ate it up.
That night my sister and her family arrived for the big event the next day.
Day 4 - Saturday, July 14th
First thing after breakfast we headed down south to Hiram, Ohio, to the Johnson Farm, where the prophet Joseph Smith lived for a while and received some of the revelations contained in the Doctrine and Covenants. It was wonderful to tour the home and grounds and feel the spirit of the great work of the gospel going forth.
The kids were impressed with a huge rock at the farm. It was just sitting there in the middle of a large lawn.... waiting for some curious children to climb aboard...... and then jump!
Then we drove back through more Amish areas.... Middlefield and Mesopotamia. I was amused by the name when my dad said we were going there, but I laughed out loud when I saw this funny sign outside the cute old-fashioned general store, "End of the Commons," in Mespo (as it is affectionately called). Click on it for a closer look.
I enjoyed looking at the merchandise catering to the Amish, and again couldn't resist purchasing a few small items... a delicious granola, whole wheat "ABC" pasta, and a bean soup mix.
Grandpa treated us all to tasty old-fashioned rootbeer.
While we sipped our sodas, my dad, not surprisingly, introduced himself to this fellow parked outside the store, and spent about 15 minutes quizzing him about his horse.
We got a kick out of the little barefoot Amish boys (they looked about 9 or 10 years old) who rode up to the market in their tiny 2-wheeled buggy pulled by a pony, bought ice cream and rootbeer (for floats?) and headed off again... much faster than a bike or scooter.When we got back to Kirtland, my parents had to work an afternoon shift at the Isaac Morley Farm. Since it's pretty quiet there, and they have a private, roomy office, my mom suggested that we leave the kids with them for a few hours while Jay and I went in to Cleveland, about 20 minutes from Kirtland. Jay really wanted to go to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and it sounded fun. It's interesting....and pricey.... and much larger than I expected! We were there for several hours, and we practically ran through, and we still didn't see everything.
We returned to find our children completely enchanted by "Grandma's Magical World." My mom has this way of making every little thing seem magical and exciting. She is amazing that way. She had shown them a "fairy land" behind the office.... a small grassy circular area surrounded by trees and shrubs, and plenty of wildlife. My Mary was thoroughly convinced that fairies would come out when it got dark. Grandma Mary is the ultimate enchantress!
We also explored this little secret garden hidden in the side of a hill, long over grown. It was very mysterious, and the kids ate it up.That night my sister and her family arrived for the big event the next day.
July 25, 2007
Whew!
OK. I know I promised you more about your trip. Well, I finally finished reading this tonight.
Now I will get back to my life. I will attack the dirty dishes, laundry, bills, etc.
And I will continue blogging.
Now I will get back to my life. I will attack the dirty dishes, laundry, bills, etc. And I will continue blogging.
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