Good People (like Santa!)

We had a surprise tonight. I heard the doorbell ring and as I was walking to the door I heard jingle bells jingling. Lo and behold as I opened the door but Santa was standing there before my eyes.
He had stopped by to see Boo.
I am so grateful that I know good people like "Santa"

Thanks dude you made my night!

Fix it Man

The last couple of days our kitchen faucet has been not working quite right.
Today Nat calls me and says we need to go to the store since the top of the faucet just broke off in her hand.
Well, turns out after going to Lowes and Home Depot they do not carry the type of faucet she likes, so she settled.
Installing was a learning experience as well. I followed the directions,a little too closely. Turns out I added a part that did not need to be added so the whole thing turned incorrectly.
Well, after watching a online video, looking at the instructions again and again I noticed the part I added in for this type of install.
Well, I am grateful it all worked out. Even if it is not Nat's favorite.

Blessings....

So being on the high council and being in charge of the Physical stuff has been a great learning over the last 4 years.
This week I added another skill set.
Our Stake does a musical program each year at CHristmas and will start at Easter. THe leader of this has hated our CHurch speaker system for years. She finaly talked the Stake President into buying a portable sound system.
So Thursday I went and picked it up, got trained and found out that I am the sound guy for tomorrows program.
THis meant getting up at 6am this morning setting everything up for pratice, sitting through pratice and then taking everything down only to put it back up tomorrow afternnon.
I got home at 1 today.
I do not want to sound like I am complaining cuz I am not. I could have said no but I am glad to help.
Also I got a call from one of the wards to see if I could be their Santa next Saturday. I asked if it was since I was fat, they said no just Jolly.
I was sort of unsure how to take that but then another ward told me today that they were thinking of asking me to be their Santa as well, I asked Why, their answer...Your such a Jolly kind of guy.
I am grateful people think I am Jolly...

Spoke too soon and Muppets

Well it looks like I spoke too soon in yesterdays post about the roof.
When I got up there this afternoon I noticed a section about 6 feet by 3 feet where the shingles had blown away. Also the one ridge up one side is missing all the shingles.
Guess on Monday I will be calling the insurance too see what they say.
On another note...we were all set to go to the bountiful light parade tonight but due to the damage and some of the city not having any power still they canceled.
So we went and saw "The Muppets" tonight. What a great fun time!!!
I am grateful for my family and that they don't mind be laughing and smiling at dumb jokes  by muppets.

Safe Place to Sleep

Early this morning the winds hit. About 3am I heard them start and they just barley seemed to let up now at 11 am.
Fortunately we knew it was coming so we brought in the Christmas decorations and I made sure the carport was of.
As of this morning we had our garbage can blow over, the leaves that were picked up have come back it seems, a few items blew off the shelves in the carport, but everything else looks OK.
I had hoped part of the roof would go so we could call insurance and get a new one but so far it is holding.
My parents lost power and had their swing tip over as well as a few shingles. (I will head over this afternoon to look)
I was worried watching some of the very tall trees in the neighbors yard but they seem to bend with the winds and snap back OK.

So today I am grateful for power that lets me work from home when I need to.
A warm safe house that protects my family from the cold wind.
And that we and my family have made it through without any great trouble or damage.

A good life

Being that it was a long weekend and I am now back to reality, I must say it was a good 4 days.
I am also reminded of how grateful I am for everything i have.
A few items bring that to mind:

• Buying the iPad the girl asked for my email. I said gratefulscottie, she looked at me and asked "What are you grateful for?" I replied with a smile. "Everything!!!"
• Yesterday had a great spiritual meeting with the High Council and our Stake President...it was one of those where grown men shed tears and are not ashamed.
• So grateful for my kids and grand kids and the new one on the way...I am truly blessed and know that prayers concerning my family are heard even if I do not speak them out loud all the time.
• Coming to work is a pain at times but i am so grateful for a job that gives us enough money so Nat can stay home with Boo. It hasn't always been easy but we manage and have never regretted making that choice.
• Had Tithing settlement last night and loved talking one on one with the Bishop. He is a good friend and great man and it amazes me how the money is there to take care of things with a little left over....
• Last but not least...my great birthday/Christmas present...I hate to admit it but I am in love with my iPad...not as much as I love my wife and kids (but close)

Black Friday fun

What a year for Black Friday. It really started Thursday night at Walmart for games at 10pm then on to Target to stand in line for the midnight opening for several items. (Boo is going to be so spoiled).
On the way home almost 1am Boo fell asleep so we thought to stop at Kohl's so Nat could run in quick and grab two items.
Well she grabbed the items ok but then spent 2 hours in line while Boo slept in the car and I read and played on my iTouch.
Then Friday we slept in but went Friday night to the Grand America for their window hunt, hot chocolate and a cookie.
Then rode Trax to Gateway, ate at Rumbi's and decided to walk down to Apple since we had gotten emails saying great deals would be there. They never have great deals or put their stuff on sale.
Well I was wrong. iPads were $50 off. So Nat broke down and had to get me my birthday/Christmas present early.
How lucky am I? She even let me have it a week early...What a woman!!!

I think the smile on my face says it all....

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

I am so grateful for all that I have been blessed with. My life is great.
I am so lucky to have the family I do. My kids and grand kids make me proud.
My wife is not only my best friend but the best thing in my life.
I am also grateful that my in laws (where we are for dinner) DO NOT WATCH SPORTS!!!!!!!!!!!

I BELIVE!!!

You can just see the kindness in his eyes and smile.
I belive in Father Christmas  and am grateful that I do

The Season has Started (again, sort of)

Saturday Night we went down to the Gateway mall to be part of their tree lighting event. It was cold but not too bad. Jon Schmidt a local musician played (as always) and did a wonderful job.
There was free hot chocolate, cookies and fun.
We did it 2 years ago when Boo was just 9 months old, last year was too rainy and now this year was just cold.
A lot of people. They handed out jingle bells to people to help welcome Santa. I watch a mom with 3 little ones by herself struggle all night trying to keep a 2 year old boy with a lot of energy close by. She was holding an infant as well as a stroller for the baby. Her oldest a girl about 6 tired to help and keep up with the toddler.
Nat had gotten 2 bells to hold. As the mom noticed the bells with people she started to look around and then told her daughter there was no more. She didn't dare leave her spot and kids to go over to where they were handing them out.
I was holding a sleeping Boo so motioned to Nat. She went over and gave the mom one of our bells. The little girl's face as it lite up as she saw the bells and then the large smile that spread across her face as she was able to shake them to welcome Santa was priceless.
This year I am grateful for the small acts people do to help make the season just a bit brighter for someone.
We all should do better.
Also Boo's new favorite song is "Have a holly jolly Christmas" by Michael Buble.
I love this time of year!

A good Morning

First off I feel better than I have all week.
Second as Nat and I have discussed her lesson for YW tomorrow and as I have spent the last 2 days reading the new Church Manuel "Daughters in My Kingdom" I have found myself so grateful for a wife who desires nothing more (most of the time) than to be a good mother.
I have written more on this book on my reading blog so check it out if you want.
But I am so grateful for a lot of things...more to come

Good Health (sort of)

I had my colonoscopy on Friday Morning. Sat early evening I got the flu type crap. Throw up, the runs, only problem was that since I had "Cleaned myself out" I really had nothing in me.
This went on til Monday Morning and as of this morning I am almost back to normal...So grateful for not ever getting sick that often, I am told I do not handle it well.(according to my wonderful wife).
Boo was a great nurse

3 more years

Well I had my "Scope" done today and everything is great. I get to go back in 3 years to have the next one.
I am so grateful to Dr Griffin and his staff they were great.
As they were prepping me the nurses were talking about 2 cancelation they had. So as they were rolling me into the "Procedure room" the nurse said to the Dr. "They are just dropping like flies."
I replied, "Oh that makes me feel so much better."
Then another nurse from another room hollered that the computer just froze, I replied, "Maybe that is why they are dropping like flies."
I so enjoy this team.
I also enjoy the thought of everything being ok and not having to do it again for 3 years

Has it really been a year?

Oct 1, 2010 I went in for my first ever colonoscopy, since I was over 50 and had my yearly physical coming up I did not want to hear the lecture from the Dr as well as to get my wife off my back about having it done. Well they found a "mass" On Nov 1 2010 I went under the knife and had part of my colon cut out. They thought they had got it all. Tests 3 months and 6 months later all pointed toward that being true. Now of Friday I go in for another colonoscopy, (this will be a yearly event for the rest of my life my wife tells me) and here is hoping everything comes out good.
It is hard to believe that it has been a year and I am so grateful for this past year and all the blessing I have had thrown my way.

A Sticker to remind me

Yesterday afternoon Nat was taking a nap. I planned on taking a nap along with Boo. Problem was, Boo did not want to do a nap so we stayed up and played, watched TV then I went out in the front room to read my conference talks I had printed out. After a short while Boo came over, climbed in my lap, looked at what I was doing and just stayed there for a minute. She then reached over and stuck a sticker in the middle of the page. I got upset and told her not to do that. It was not nice. As I gently pulled the sticker off the printed page. She then got off my lap, hung her head, stuck out her bottom lip, dropped her shoulders and walk slowly out of the room as only a drama filled 3 year old can.

I was right in scolding her but still felt bad. After all I am the good cop my wife tells me. After a few minutes I heard her in her room reading so I went in. She looked up at me and said "Get out of my room please". So I kissed her, said I love you and left. I then came back a read for about 15 minutes before she came out to play, which I did.

This morning I picked up my conference book , put it in my backpack and left to work. As I pulled it out of my backpack a few minutes ago I noticed the sticker stuck on the back cover. The image of yesterday replayed in my head along with the thought. " You sure are lucky God shows more patience with you and your bone head moves"
The sticker is still there and I see it as a badge of learning...

just sitting and thinking and typing

So here I sit at work at almost 7pm listening into a call to move a network piece. We tired it last week and after 5 hours had to roll back and abandon it. We have been doing it an hour now and sounds like we are stuck at the same spot.  Just love networking and the people that do it. (I meant that nicely)
At least I have my frig in my office stocked and bought an extra Diet Pepsi just in case.
I did leave earlier to see Nat doing pictures of Josh, Jo and the boys. Can i say I Love Being a grandpa or  PAPA! as I like to be called.
I love my kids but grand kids are cool. I love how they brighten up when they see me and will talk my ear off. Well, one does the other is still a bit young but it will come. I can hardly wait for a little girl to spoil. (I am practicing on Boo)

Parts of getting old are fun after all.

Yearly Visit to Dr Gamble

I had my yearly visit with my Dr today.
I have been going to Dr Gamble for at least 10 years. Every year it is the same talk of low salt, low stress, need to lose weight, Weight watchers really works.
Every year (except last year due to my upcoming surgery) I leave with my prescriptions renewed and advise to basically lose weight.
I am glad that I go yearly, and am grateful that he is so good with me.
A yearly physical has taken on new meaning over the last 5 years and really over the past year.
I am grateful to be able to know that I am healthy, if not a bit too fat, but still things are working well.
Several months ago a friend my same age died of a massive Heart attack, he was fit we all thought. Stressed out but fit.
This past weekend a guy I work with in New Jersey had a heart attack, he came home from the hospital today. He is 35 and I thought pretty fit.
So grateful for whatever help I can get to ensure that I get to see Boo grow, married and with a family of her own.  As well as my other kids and my grandkids. As John Denver used to say"turns me on to think of growing old." Yes I know that means I have to lose weight...I will...really...stop laughing!

Making time for Reading

I set the goal to read 100 books in 2011. I just finished # 80. Looks like I am behind. I basicaly have 10 weeks left so guess that is 2 books per week.
I know I can do it since I have done it before.
July alone I read 13 books that month, but I am going to have to MAKE TIME TO READ>
During the months I did the best I was on a set schedule of getting up in the morning and having personal study time as well as reading a little a night. I also had a book playing on my ipod while I was driving or working around the house. I have gotten away from that these past few months and I miss it.

I am grateful for a love of reading that my mother gave to me as I grew.

"Dad, did you do your service?"

Today was spent in helping Nat's family take a lot of items to the DI (A second hand store) for donation.
I am grateful we are done but also for the time the family spent together, those that could make it, and work together.
Boo asked last night what we were going to do at Mimi's and I said "We are going to do service!"
Today she asked if I did my service. I was grateful to be able to report "Yes I did."
(7 truck loads of service to be exact)
I am grateful for the service I saw my parents do as I grew and now can show my kids the same.

I am a Christian! (an open letter to Rev. Jeffress)

Dear Sir,

I understand from the news, that once again you have declared that Mormonism is a cult and that a Mormon is not a Christian.

I assume that when you say Mormon you mean members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and not the so called groups who claim Mormon as a name.

As I understand the “Born Again” thoughts on being a Christian it is basically

That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.

I can only speak for myself and my relationship with my Lord:

Jesus is the only begotten of God the Father and as such is my elder Brother who loves me.

He came to this earth to establish His Church and to fulfill all righteousness.
He worked out the intricate details of the Atonement in the Garden of Gethsemane and completed this work on Calvary.

He was buried in the tomb and on the third day rose from the dead and ascended to His Father, later to return to further teach His apostles and followers.

Because of this great atonement I can be forgiven of my sins, but not only that, I can lean on Him with the knowledge that He has descended below all things and overcome them. I have His strength to lean on when I must face my trials and His smile to share in my joys.

I took the name of Christ upon myself in the waters of baptism. I renew the effect of that baptism each week as I partake of the sacrament, signifying my willingness to take His name upon me and promising always to remember Him.

He is the source of all my joy in my life. I am forever in His debt for the blessings He has given to me.

He loves us all and is no respecter of person. He dealt directly with His apostles and followers as He established His Church and continues to lead His Church here on earth today.

He is my advocate with the Father and cares about my needs and troubles as well as my joys.

He delights in the simple prayer of a small child the same as that of a politician.

You say we do not worship the same Jesus, well that might be true, I do not know the Jesus you revere but mine is a close and trusted friend, a brother that loved me enough to die for me thus enabling me and you, to have the gift of eternal life and to be able to be part of the resurrection.

I know that my redeemer lives and He is Jesus Christ, and for that I am truly grateful!

Thank you.

sb

Potting Training is going to Break me

We have tried for awhile now, to get Boo to start Potty training. We have not forced her but have asked and always got the response 'No I am OK"
Well last week we were asking her if she wanted to go on the potty, I said. "If you go on the potty I will give you a dollar!"
Boo looked at me, then said "OK" ran into the bathroom dropped her diaper, sat down, and did her business. She then held out her hand for a dollar.
Since then we have not looked back, she is doing wonderful. I tape dollars on the wall right by her potty chart so she will do her stuff, put a sticker on and grab a dollar.
What a smart kid...I wonder if she will notice as I start to recycle the dollars out of her bank?

Conference Thoughts

I am so grateful that we had the chance yesterday morning to have the kids and grand kids come out for Breakfast and morning session of conference.
I am so grateful they make the time every 6 months to spend a few special hours with us.
While we don't listen closely(thank goodness for Internet replays) we have great food and the spirit that is felt is wonderful.
Nat out does herself every time with new foods and a wonderful spirit int he home.
Last night I set up the video for Priesthood at the 2 chapels, made sure chairs were setup (Thank goodness they were), turned on the air to cool the chapels. I then setup a TV in the High Council room to test the new Roku feed the Church is looking at.
It was nice to sit in a comfy chair, lean back and watch conference.
Nat did the usual of getting with her sisters and sister in law for a semi girls night.

Conference is such a wonderful time, a time for learning, and most importantly, reflection on how I am doing and how I can do better.

Forget me nots- Pres Uchtdorf

Saturday night was the General Relief Society meeting. I went up set up the video, tables and chairs, then came home.

After it was over I saw on facebook several comments on how great Pres Uchtdorf's talk was.

The next day at church it was metioned in scattered conversations and by noon the Internet (facebook and Piniterest) were flooded with "forget me not" items and comments.

We set a recording of the session last night so Nat and I could watch it. But this morning at work I looked on LDS.org and found the video of the session.

I have to admit that Pres Uchtdorfs talk was great and not just for sisters.

Now I do not think a poster by my desk of a small blue flower will work but who knows I will probably try it anyway...love conference time of year.

Pre Conference Prep

Today I get to go up and set up the satellite for the women's conference tonight. (As well as tables and 48 chairs in U shape, only the sisters do that sort of  set up.)
This starts the semi annual prep week for conference and I am grateful to have the time.
Conference has become more important and meaningful over the years, guess I am getting older.
It also helps that Nat has been asked to talk in Church tomorrow on the importance of following the Prophets and conference.
Next Sat the kids will come out for Brunch and it will be fun.
I am so grateful for my family and the time we spend together.
I am grateful the the chance I get to set up for conference not only for Women's conference and Priesthood session but also for the times I have been able to help test out new ways of viewing. (This time we will be testing the Roku system)

Disneyland Fun 9-2011

Adoption Rocks!

A day does not go by that I am not grateful for adoption and how it has completed our family.

Today I came across two things I did not know.

1. Hugh Jackman (the singing super hero) has had his life touched by adoption.
Check out the link here:
Hugh Jackman reveals how adoption healed his pain of not having kids naturally

2. One of our friends from our days serving on the National Board for Families Supporting Adoption had created her first video.
Check it out here: http://youtu.be/y3UTh40q8KM

I am so grateful for the wonderful birth mother and her family who allowed Nat and I to get Boo.
I have said it before and I will shout it from the rooftops when I can

ADOPTION ROCKS!

14 and 3

Today is a great day. It is our Famiversary.

14 years ago Nat and I were married in the Salt Lake Temple. 3 years ago on this date Boo and Nat and I were sealed as a family in the Salt Lake Temple.

I love my family. As I have spoken about my kids, wife and grand kids here before that should not come as a surprise.

The best thing in my life is my family and for that I am grateful

New Blog

Well I was inspired by a comment my wife made to start a new blog.
http://ldsscripturemarking.blogspot.com/

This is the results of a lot of trial and fail ways to study and mark my scriptures.
Take a look, share with friends comment if you want.

My Children

Since 50% of my children have their birthdays within the last 24 hours I thought to comment on them.
I am so very grateful for each of my 4 kids. True they range in age and personality but each is special.
I find myself counting them as 4 of the best things that have ever happened to me. I remember each of their births. I remember, and count myself lucky that I have these, times as each have grown where I have seen them accomplish miracles and great things.
One of my greatest wishes is to be known as a great husband and good father and with this bunch it is easy (at times).
Each has had personal attention in prayer and thought and each is great in their own right.
I will not go into the details of why each is so precious to me here, I hold those thoughts scared, but let it be known that I am proud to be called dad and papa and find joy in my posterity.

Under the sea,in the heat

Just got back from a few days in St George. We went down with some of Nats Family to see Little Mermaid, shop and catch a Temple session.
What a fun time! The play was so so. They changed the story a bit (for the worse in my opinion) But for Boo's first play it was great!
The next day I stayed at the hotel and worked while the ladies went shopping. Fri morning we went to a early Temple session while Boo slept and was tended by Wonderful Wendy.
What a old majestic building the St George Temple is.
I am so grateful for a wife that put this together and who I get to be with forever!

Time Off

So starting tomorrow I get time off from work. Still employed just Vacation time have to use. Nat suggested I use the time to go to "BYU Education Week". So I am.
Last year I really enjoyed it and hope to again this year.
So grateful for a wife that allows me to use some of my time off just for myself.

Mr.Mom

Nat has spent the last 3 days at Girls Camp. She is due home this afternoon. (Yes I am counting down the hours). I have been mainly Mr Mom with 3 year old Boo.

I am so grateful for Wendy (Nat's Sister) who helped out by watching Boo yesterday and Tues for 4 hours (maybe it was 5) so I could go into work. Today I am "working from home".
Boo and I have had a blast!!! We only went out for ice cream once. All the other meals were at home. Mac n Cheese, Roast beef sandwhichs, Apples, what a time. (And some thought I would go to McDonald's every meal)
We played on the swings, cleaned the house (well as clean as I do I guess).
I am so grateful for my relationship with Boo.
Also grateful that Nat will be home in 5 hours, We Both have missed her!

Blessings (thank Goodness)

I have avoided writing this post since I debated with myself if I should or not. But the purpose of this blog is to state what I am grateful for and this is a biggy.

For the past 6 weeks work has been hinting that lay off's were coming. My boss hinted strongly that it could invole my unit. I didn't worry too much since my client pays extra to have me and my people 100% dedicated to them.
Well, a couple of weeks ago he really hinted that it could hit. I prayed etc.
The dreadful rumored day a Friday, came and went and my unit was spared.
Then the next Wednesday (last week) I was pulled in and advised that I would be let go at the end of the month.
I calmly asked if they had informed my client which they had not.
I asked what was expected of me between now and then.
I then said OK and came back to my office, shut the door, knelt down and had a long talk. I pleaded that if possible that He would soften the heart of my Senior VP just as He had Pharaoh and allow me to keep my job. Nat deserves to be a stay at home mom and Boo deserves to have her there. Not that I would put Nat to work at once but this job makes it easy for us to have only me work. We are so lucky to have it and for me to have moved up where I am.
A few hours later I was ready to leave for the day since I did not want to stick around. After all I had to go home and advise Nat that we were about to be unemployed at the end of the month.
I went down to tell my boss I was leaving.
My boss said to wait a bit longer since he had told my client the news and my client went through the roof, demanding a call be set up with the Senior VP who is over my unit.
I went back to my office and repeated the process I had done earlier.
My boss came down to my office about 45 minutes later to advise me that I was rehired. I guess that call was explosive, from what I was told.
Of course I thanked him, picked up the phone and called my client to thank him and then shut the door and thanked He who can work miracles, from parting the red sea to letting someone sitting in New Jersey get mad enough, and scream loud enough, to soften the heart of a Senior VP sitting in Dallas, that allows my 3 year old to have a mom 100% at home with her.
For this special, individual attention from a very busy Father, I am very grateful

Wow just wow.

It  has been awhile since I have posted anything. Lots has happened.
We took Boo to see the new Winnie the Pooh movie. Randy and Misty joined us. It was great to have Boo dig into their popcorn and not ours for a change.
We went to the Bountiful Parade Friday night. In order to get OK seats I woke up at 5am that morning and headed over. Found a spot, set up and waited until 7 am when we were allowed to leave.
The other day Boo came into where I was reading, her arms folded, a big frown on her face. I asked what was wrong, she replied."I'm frustrated!" I asked why she said "Cuz I am Dad!"
she stormed into her room and 10 minutes later everything was great.
Boy if this is 3 years old what is 13 or 16 going to be.
Work has been interesting...just glad to have a job and allow Nat to stay home with Boo.

Thoughts on a Sunday Evening

I am in a different sort of mood tonight. The day started early with High Council meeting, then my Church then the 6th ward then home and on to the in laws for birthday dinner.
I feel very grateful for my life. I have a great family and love my calling at church.
Last night Boo stuck her butt out at me and said "I'm getting so big. Even my butt see...."

She also said she had something up her nose. I said Burgers? to which she replied. "No. it's bird poop. See?" What a bit of fresh air every day.

So tonight I  am grateful for being me.

Wet Basement Stinks!!!

Last night Nat went down to work on her sewing machine in her 3/4 of the basement. She said the carpet felt wet.
Well, after pulling it up we found a soaking wet mess of a pad and wall.
I spent the night pulling up carpet and setting up fans. Scrubbing the pad and carpet back, sucking up water with a small wet vac (our green machine died).
Today I spent the day pulling up more water and cleaning.
I also decided since I had the day home to fix our tube faucet upstairs that was leaking. It was totally unrelated to the water down stairs. After trips to Lowe's and Home depot with no success I went to Standard plumbing to get the parts. They did not have them as well but the kid behind the counter said to go to M1 Specialists. I walked in and showed them what I wanted. He looked at it for a second, looked in a book then the computer and 3 minutes later came back from the warehouse with the perfect parts.
So the tub is fixed. The water is not coming in any more so I have no idea where we flooded from. The pad, part of the sheet rock, and the baseboards are all out in the trash.
The smell is...how did Nat put it..."Not hitting smack in your face almost knocking you out when you walk in."
Now on to getting a machine, then deodorizing and cleaning. Replacing the carpet Pad I threw out, cutting more sheet rock away to make sure we got all the stinky stuff, putting up new sheet rock, taping sanding then painting.
Just what I wanted...a summer project.

I am grateful we caught it when we did before too much more damage happened. Also grateful for a 3 year old assistant that knows how to use pillars on tub handles. I drew the line when she wanted to use the razor blade to cut the wall like daddy.

Happy 4th everyone

What The Flag Means To Me(written 9-12-01)

The red is the blood of too many people who have given their lives
to provide us the right to fly, or burn it.
It is also the blood of the many innocent lives lost,
simply because they were Americans.
The white is the hopes and dreams
of the families of those who have died,
that their sacrifice was not in vain and meant something.
The blue is the promise of each new generation,
that they will leave the world a better place than their parents did.
It also is the many tears shed among all classes of people,
hoping for this better life.
The stars represent the heavenly guidance
our leaders receive from above,
starting with our founding fathers down
to the present day administration.
(this is given even if they don't deserve it themselves)
What does the flag mean to me?
It's hard to put into words,
but as I stand with hand
over heart and sing
the last words of, "...and the home of the brave."
a tear comes to my eye, and my heart beats a little stronger.
This flag is my heritage
from my father and his father,
and what I leave to my children.
Long may it wave

Tattoos and Boo

We went  to Nat's parents house yesterday for dinner and cousin fun. I was reading and heard all this laughter and noise from the kitchen. Soon Boo came running into the other room to proudly show off her Dumbo and Mickey Tattoo.

Little did I know that Nat got one as well.

Of course no visit is complete without sweeping the dirt.
I am so grateful that Boo has cousins  (and her nephews) that she is close in age too and just close with.

Happy Father's Day

Yesterday was a good day. In fact the weekend was great. Friday night Randall and Misty came up and spent some time. Boo loves her siblings no doubt.
Saturday we went to the Gateway for the Chalk Art festival and to play in the fountains.
Sunday was Church, then Jo and Josh and the boys came over. Then on to my brothers house for Bradford family get together. Cody and a friend came out. (Cody did bite Boo's finger as she was feeding him a roll. that leaves Jo to be the only sibling that hasn't bit her) We then went to Nat's dads house and saw that side of the family.

So lucky to have the kids I do and the family I do.
I am grateful for everything each of my kids bring into my life

No room to complian

Last night Nat and I had the chance to go see "17 Miracles", the movie about the Martin handcart company. Our Stake President basically bought out an entire theatre for all the youth and their leaders to go free of charge.
After the movie we had the writer, director and procuder TC Christensen speak to us.

As I sat there, tears making their way down my cheeks, I realized that I really have not complaints about anything my Church calling may ask me to do or any inconvenience it may seem to cause me.

Such an uplifting movie. During his talk after the movie he asked for any who had ancestors in the Willie or Martin Handcart company to stand. About 1/4 of the full theatre stood. That in itself was moving to me.
I am so grateful for what the Lord has blessed me with and what little I have to give in return.

2.5 to Library and then Ensign Peak?

Yesterday I told Nat that I wanted to go to the library. She said, "OK start walking. It's only 2.5 miles away."
I smiled then saw she was serious. She then said "Should only take you about 30 minutes we will pick you up there then."
So off I went.
Tonight she announced that we were going to hike Ensign peak.
And we did. Boo walked all the way up and down. Guess it's not that big a deal since my 3 year old did it but i am happy I made it none the less.
My wife is my support in my effort to lose weight. For that I am grateful

The Doctor Said...

So I had my 6 month follow up with my cancer Doctor.
In a nutshell my blood work came back normal, the scars healed well, and everything else points to being ok.
For that I am VERY GRATEFUL!!!!

So what is next? I have another colonoscopy scheduled 11-11-11 (Kind of freaking huh?)
If it checks out ok then we will talk about the next one in another year or maybe longer.
Not totally out of the woods yet, in fact I may never be, but after 5 years of no more problems the doctor will be extremely happyas will I, but for now I am grateful for good news.

Check up

Tomorrow afternoon I have my 6 month follow up with my Cancer Doctor. Went in last week for blood work.
Not really worried or anxious but still want the appointment to be over with.
So grateful that through this whole thing I have had several things going for me.
1. My sense of humor
2. My Faith
3. My Family
4. My wife who is my rock and my best friend.

Nice Day

Sun is shining, the sky is blue, I had to water the garden...Summer (for now) is great. After the long days of rain and crud it is nice to have sunny skies Boo is loving being outside and would live on her swing set if she could.

So grateful for a nice yard that I feel safe letting my3 year old play in. (of course she is always in sight)

Reading and stopping and starting

So if you know me you know that I am trying to read a lot more...(100 books is the goal).
Well, I wont count this but I started to listen to a book by Orson Scott Card, who I have only read one other of his books (People of the fringe, I believe).
This one called "Enchantment". Got 3 discs into it and stopped, just not grabbing me. Then I started one by Mercedes Lackey on King Arthur story line but got 2 discs into that and lost interest. Then I tired one of my old standby authors Namoi Novik and her dragon series got one disc into, read the story outline from the back of the book and lost interest. Not that these were bad books, just not what I want to listen too right now. So I have listened to 6 disc's of different books but not counting it to my goal. Most books are 10-13 discs long.
So I started Stephen Kings 30 disc (over 1000 pages) "Under the Dome". One disc in and will stick with it for awhile.
So what does this have to do with being grateful you ask?
Well, (and this is a stretch) I am grateful that I have such a varied taste and the ability to stop a book if it is not grabbing me, only to pick up where I left off in a few months and enjoy the rest of the read.
Guess I'm Funny that way.

A few Things

IT has been a busy few days. Work is going crazy, but at least I get a check and it allows Nat to stay home with Boo full time.
Nat had a birthday and I completely failed at the present thing...good thing she is understanding and I have Christmas to make up for it.
Nat's grandmother died. It wasn't a surprise but just the same it is what it is.
We went and saw Les Mis. It was wonderful.(They did seem to rush all the songs but I still love this musical)
We had the viewing tonight and tomorrow the funeral
We ripped out the bushes on the side of our driveway. Now just have to build a rock wall to stop the neighbors yard running into it.
Spent the holiday weekend helping my sisters paint most of the upstairs at my parents house. It looks amazing and we all did a great job. So grateful for my brother and his wife coming and working the project list for the yard...it will save me so many nights of work.
Tonight I came home, we put Boo in the tub and Nat gave me a big hug...wow I have a great life. FOr that I am so grateful.

Guess I need the blessings

I have had quite a few callings in my Church life. Some I have enjoyed more than others.
None have been more interesting than High Council PFR (Physical Facilities Rep) Basically I am in charge of what goes on and wrong in the Church Buildings.
I have been doing this for 3 1/2 years and each week it is something different. Just the past few eeks the following delights have happened. I have tired to use the same language as I got the call
-It's too cold in the Relief Society room sisters are going home
-It's too hot in the Chapel, made a toddler throw up
-Someone attacked the back of the scout room door with a sharp object and tore it up
-I think I saw a cockroach
-Can I borrow 50 chairs and some tables to use at my works party
-It seems that the men's room on the north side has clogged up and flooded all over the floor.

This last one came last night at 10:10pm. From the lock up guy. I try to take care of all of these. Even last night where I went up to discover that the caller had failed to mention what had clogged the toilet and was also on the floor from flooding over. (I will not say more but imagine the worst and add 10% more)

I enjoy this calling and I do need the blessings that come from it.
(I also am over the Primary and assigned the 6th Ward that I also enjoy)
I have been told that I am over the usual time to serve but that I will not be in forever but it wont be anytime soon...for that I am grateful since I need the blessing.

Just a end note...just got a call-- The other men's room is now cogged up. 
(Joy oh joy)

Post-it Love notes

When Nat was out of town with Boo (to Disneyland!!!!!) and I was left alone witht he dog and the silence. I recieved a great and wonderful surprise.
I opened the fridge and there on the Diet Pepsi bottle was a purple post-it note that read. "Go ahead and eat Chinese every day. No one will know!"
Then I opened my day planner to see "I LOVE YOU!!! YOU'RE THE BEST HUBBY! See u soon luv me"
This went on for the few days they were gone.
In all I got 9 notes of love reminders spread through out the house.
That made me feel so good and loved.
My wife rocks.
I also got a postcard of Mickey from Nat and Boo as well as a email picture of them on Buzz Light year.

I have these notes saved since they make me truly grateful for my life.

Looking Froward to This

Family

I spent the last part of last week alone at home while Boo and Nat went off to Disneyland with family.


It was very quiet…really quiet around the house…I did not like it. I love the dog but she mainly sleeps and not a great one to carry on a conversation with.

It was so fun to talk to Boo on the phone. She even took me down the slide with her (while talking on the phone.)

I even got a tear when I went to the airport to pick them up. She was standing with Nat at the luggage rack, looking up she saw me when I was about 30 yards away. Boo screamed and took off running to me..what a feeling that hug held.

Yesterday we went up to see some of Nat’s family, her grandmother is not doing very well.

Family is great to be around, I really enjoyed talking to her relatives even if the occasion is a bit sad, yet with the gospel message of forever family it isn’t really.

I guess it is a glimpse of heaven since we are told that we will be with those we find ourselves comfortable with.

For that, and them, I am grateful!

The group on this trip

Princess in training

Such joy

Boo loves this movie

What a hot looking lady...I am so lucky

Just a Little unplugged

I think of myself as a sort of gadget geek. I love to see the latest and greatest gadget/toy out there. If I really want something and can justify it I usually get it. (Thanks to a very wonderful and understanding wife)


About 8 weeks ago I decided to take a long look at my being plugged in. I had to start to pack two phones, one for work and one personal which is what started this thinking.

Since I am packing 2 phones once I get home I take my work phone off and set it in my basket. I used to check it every 15 minutes to see if I had any new emails etc. (Even on the weekends) I don’t do that anymore. Often I will look at it right before bed and then when I get up to see if there is anything I have to handle.

I also have started to go back to the old Day Planner method. While I love the access of a calendar and such on my phone or itouch, I kept feeling like I am missing things. To do lists did not work well for me in that format.

I still love my music, and love reading on my ebook reader but have found that nothing replaces the feel and smell of a great book.

I have tried to use my iTouch with scriptures on Sunday but found that I miss all my notes, markings that I spent hours upon hours, little by little putting into my paper set. (I must admit I do use my reader with the Priesthood manual)

I also have found myself watching less and less TV or listening to the radio in the car even. I love books on my iPod plain and simple.

While I am grateful for all the gadgets and lust after a new iPad2, I am truly grateful for the joy of unplugging a little bit and being able to view life in silence.

Rain still? Really

How does the song go…rain rain go away come again some other day?


I had hoped to work more on my yard these past few days but no luck. Here in Utah it is spring, which means who knows what the weather will do, and if you don’t like it wait 10 minutes and it will change.

Well I have waited more than 10 minutes and it is still drizzle coming down.

On the bright side, I am grateful I fertilized my lawn right before the showers started. (I may not say that when I have to mow it)

I got the planting done for the garden and as long as the seeds don’t wash away it may be a good crop.



As for the rain…well at least it is not hot…yet

Out of the mounth of babes

Today I am grateful for a smile that comes to me as I recall a conversation with Boo the other night.


Boo climbing up the counter and slipping a little “Oh Dammit”

Me: “What did you say?”

Boo with a innocent smile: “ I said oh dammit”

Me: “That’s not a nice word”

Boo: “Its ok daddy people say it”

Me:“We don’t say that word”

Boo: “You can say it daddy. D A M M I T(speaking very slowly) You try”

Me: “No we do not say that word”

Boo : “ Daddy just say dammit it’s ok.”



Now I wonder where or who, she picked up this wonderful phrase from?

Boo Dancing

A Wise 3 Year Old

I am so grateful today for my wise 3 year old. Last night as we knelt to have prayer Boo decided she wanted to be voice so Nat helped her. Nothing is as sweet as a 3 year old saying a prayer. She then demanded a Boo sandwich, mainly a big family hug with her in the middle.


Not only does she sit through prayer more often than running around, she also knows when we have scripture reading to be part of it. The other day I went into the bedroom to find her reading her Book of Mormon. I said what ya doing she looked at me and said scriptures dad.

Now we just need to keep it up everyday and add in formal FHE time…

This morning as I was leaving for work she yelled "no no no stop!". I stopped at the door and looked at her asking "Why?"
She then said "You need to kiss mommy."

How I love this wise 3 year old and her input in my life

Little J

Yesterday this little man turned 2.
It is so hard to think how fast the l;ast 2 years have flown by.

I am so proud and grateful to be "papa" to this little guy and his brother.

J you are by far my favorite 2 year old .

Love you lots, your smile and laugh touch my heart.

Getting Garden Ready

Yesterday it was such a good day that I left work early to do some things in the yard.


I was able to finish weeding the garden area and till it up.

Now to level it all out, rebuild the rock wall on the edge, buy and spread out the ground cover. Then on to building the boxes, putting them in place, put the soil mix in add the strings and poof…square foot gardening starts up once more.

I am so grateful to be able to have the room to do a good size garden not to mention the process of square foot gardening. It works so well.

Baseball, Bee, Foam,Fireworks, Family fun

Last night we went with Nat's family to the Bee's game. (I know, me at a sporting event without being forced)
But Boo had a ball and even though it was very cold it was great fun. (Thanks Eric )

Prayer of a 3 year old.

As you can tell from my last post, work has been a bit of a challenge. This morning during family prayer, Boo gave the prayer with help from her mom. In the prayer she asked that daddy be helped at work to do what he needs to do. Well it is such a blessing to have 2 great people praying for you.

I have been faced with a problem at work without a good solution for a few days. After that prayer, I came into work and as I drove in, it hit me as to what the solution should be. Provided I could get the details to work out with 3 other people.

The details fell smoothly into place and my problem, while not completely solved, has been diminished greatly and I am smiling at the thought of the weeks ahead.

I am so grateful for the simple faith and power of a mother teaching her 3 year old how to pray and a loving Father in Heaven that smiles as He listens in.

Just a sort of bad day and being ornery

So is ornery really a word? I guess it is since it pops up in my Microsoft word program as one...isn't that a better source than Webster?

Even so I went home yesterday and told Nat I was in a bad mood, she smiled and said why. I told her because I have to work at work…I know poor baby right?.

Well today was no better. Here I sit and the only word that fits is ornery. Here it is late Thurs afternoon, I have to give a talk this Sunday and have no idea on how to approach it. I have tons of yard work and it is all wet and cold, I have a section of my latest story stuck in my head, and not sure how to fix it, I can’t seem to turn around at work without someone having a new personal problem that impacts the job and I am old and feeling it today…ok I fell better now, thanks for listening!

Up in the Sky!!!

I had planned to work in the yard today and finish some of what I started yesterday. (Mowing, spraying, weeding maybe chopping up some bushes.)
I was hanging out with Boo this morning since Nat had a meeting. We fixed the jogging stroller, picked up sticks, played on the swing set, then Mom got home and we got ready to run to the store.
Just as we were getting ready to walk out the door the phone rings, it's my brother seeing if I could give him a hand at my parents on a project he was doing.
I changed and we went over.
He was ripping down the siding at the top of the garage and replacing them with nice new will not rot plastic type boards.
I went up the ladder to rip off the old rotted wood. The first one came easy (except when it was too easy and smacked me in the head as it fell away from the wall)
The next section was going ok until the very last bit when I pulled it off and exposed 2 large wasp nests.
Now those of you who know me and my history know that wasps have it out for me. Ever since I killed the giant killer wasp that made be stumble in the drive way and break my wrist. It was huge and deadly.
I swung the crowbar at them and jumped off the top of the ladder. I had the sense to jump to the side instead of straight back so I would avoid the cement.
The ladder fell down with a crash, I tucked and rolled as I hit the ground, protecting my wrists of course and popped up ready to fight. Ok I tired to tuck and roll but did more kind of a belly flop on grass.
My brother shouted from around the corner as I lay on the grass playing dead, just in case they were getting ready to attack, to see if I was alright. I said I was.
I asked my dad for some spray, he gave me a can but it didn't seem to work well. I had found 3 more nests over by the wall corner. I then looked at the can, It was for flying insects, flies and mosquito's,
I went into the garage and came back armed with a can of starter fluid spray, my dad is not suppose to have this stuff ever sense he blew up the snow blower and almost burned the garage down. but I know where he hides it.
A few quick bursts and the evil bugs were dead. I was feeling happy as well, kind of light headed you might say.
Well today I am grateful to help my brother but also grateful that whatever angel was assigned to me this morning was not taking a nap or too involved in reading to help my landing go smoothly.

Early Morning pitter patter sound of feet

This morning (as well as several in the past week) I have been pleasantly surprised in the morning to the sound of little feet coming out of the bedroom, down the hall. They slow for a moment by the T that leads into the kitchen or the front room. Not really stopping, just a slight slow as Boo decides where i am at. I am usually in the chair (more on that in another post, I love that chair) reading. She come into the room, sees me then starts a full tilt run into my lap. I get the pleasure of one of her massive hugs and a kiss, then she settles in my lap for a few moments and we just sit there.
I have learned that once I hear the feet I need to put down whatever i am reading and get ready for her charge.

I love her hugs, I love the hugs, laughs, giggles and smiles I get from her as well as my grandsons. I do believe that only a grandpa (Jack this includes you) can get the large special smile. At least it looks extra special to me.

I am very grateful for the chance I have to be a dad and a papa with kids so close together in age.
I do not know what other 50 something people do when they come home from work but i know I will have a hug and the rest of the evening planned out for me by a very energy filled 3 year old.
I know I will smile, laugh and maybe even tear up a little before I finally go to sleep.

For this I am grateful!

No Worries

Today I am grateful for family and all that I have...but I want to talk in this post about my son in law.
(I love all my kids but Josh gets today's nod)
Today we had the honor of attending my newest grandsons blessing. His father, (My son in law) did a great job.
I often worried, (Still do on my two unmarried kids) about the spouse they would choose.
Josh fits Jo perfectly. They truly are one together. (as do Randall and Misty)
I love the growth I have seen in both of them over the years that they have been together.
They truly complement each other.
To have a son in law that honors his priesthood and his family is fantastic.
I do not worry about my daughter and my grandsons with a hubby and dad like Josh.

Thanks for letting us be part of this great day.

Snow means no yard work

So it is spring in Utah which means snow! I had planned on working a half day yesterday and come home and work in the yard for the afternoon and all day today.
Too bad I can't due to the inch of snow on the ground.
I am grateful I do not have to do yard work, but not happy that we have snow for my grandsons blessing tomorrow.
The other problem with snow is that I will be that much behind on what I want to do in the yard and I know that i will not be able to just sit and read today...Boo and Nat will make sure that doesn't happen.
But I am grateful to have them to interrupt my day

Goals Update

At work each "quarter" (every 3 months) I get to review my work and how I was able to meet or not meet the goals I set.

Well I thought I would do that for my personal stuff as well.
I set the following goals
1. Read more
2. Get up early study more
3. Lose some weight
4. Make my study stay more.

I have others but no need to talk about them here. So how have I done?
1. So far I have read (some listen to on my ipod) 29 books since January 1st. Go to my reading blog to see a list and review of each one if you are interested. http://scottiesbooks.blogspot.com/

2. I can honestly say that most days I am up at 6-6:30 and doing reading/study.  I start with a thought of the day, then read a section out of Preach my gospel, then a section from the new Handbook. Then some time in my Book of Mormon. I then try to read a chapter in my latest read. I then wake Nat up before I go to work for Family Scripture study. If I miss this I really feel it the rest of the day.

3. Lose some weight...well I can happily report that I have and am on the way to lose a lot more. One side note. Nat lost more than me and I am so proud of her.
Pictures to come shortly

4. Out of the 29 books 22 (19 books and 2 on CD) have been LDS "Church" Books. I sit with my highlighter and pen and mark as I read. Once the book is done I will go through it and take all that i have highlighted and marked and put it into a document I call "Thoughts I've read." So far I have 32 typed pages of thoughts that cover 75 topics.

This is a selfish post since I am sure you don't really care but it helps me to be more accountable for my goals.
For that indulgence I am grateful

Local Library a Blessing

 In between conference sessions I ran to the local library to pick up two items I had requested.

The first being a extremely hard to find book by one of my favorite authors.

I am excited to devour this book come Monday.
 
 
The 2nd was a newer novel by Stephen King. I knew it was large but when I saw the 30 CD's I thought, it will take me a long time to get through this one. I have not read Mr King for quite awhile.

I am so grateful for my library card. Not only to my local one but the large downtown one in Salt Lake (Thanks Randall).
As much as I want to read the special Sharpe book I could not bring myself to buy it off the Internet. As for the massive 30 disc set I would not buy that ether and am glad I do not have to wait until Christmas.

Most of all i really do not buy audio books, I love the library for that. I do not need too, they work just fine.

Most of all I am grateful that I can pick up a variety of books to read whatever suites my mood.

Good Read

The link http://lds.org/ensign/2011/04/faith-and-infertility?lang=eng listed here is to a great article on the challenges of infertility and how faith works with it.
It is a good read and really expresses how some feel.
It is also a good read since we know the 4 couples that are interviewed. We spent several years in our adoption journey serving with these great people.
I am so grateful for the time we got to know them and the friendship they represent

Literati an ereader

I have thought long and hard on if I wanted to get an iPad. My dilemma, besides the cost, is that I don’t really need it. I love my net book and my itouch and can do everything with those 2 items. The one thing I really would like to use the ipad for is as a ereader. (Now people will say that if I had an ipad I would only have to pack one device…yes I know that)

Well, as we were walking through TJMax the other day I spotted this literati for $59.99. I read the box, looked at it, came back several times while in the store. We then went home. I looked at the reviews on the internet, some good some bad. I talked to Nat about it and she told me to go back and get it if I really wanted. So I did.

I brought it home, charged it up and started the update process. It synched wireless with no problem. I then did several updates that totally changed the look of the screen (for the better)

The controls are small and it took some actual use to get the hang of it.
The color display is nice and the larger screen makes it an easy to read format.
After a few days of using this I can say that I am very happy with my purchase. Here is my thoughts:
Con First-
• Battery life is approx 4 hours
• It does not have a touch screen
• Controls are a small dpad with the page turners on the side(you swipe your finger)
• Sometimes it is slow to respond but not a problem if you remember what you are doing

Pros-
• I love the larger screen
• Color display, will also go night vision white text on black background
• Has SD card slot for more storage
• Books easy to add or delete
• Will read epub, pdf books also converts word docs to it. (Talks for Church)
• With the Kobo bookstore it is easy to get titles for free if not really cheap (New titles are normal price)
• $59.99 compares to $150 for the kindle or higher for Nook or the ipad

Basically it does what it says it does. It is an ereader and that is it.