Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Isaac & Elise: Merry Groundhogs' Day?



What do you think? I am totally finished with the top...I just need to quilt it now but am interested in some input. Is the yellow border ok or too artsy? Let me know...

Monday, December 15, 2008

First Presidency Christmas Devotional

It was a good one this year. Ask mom and dad.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Where did those kids come from?

This is not a birthday memory for Marty. I did everyone's birthday last year so I'm done with that. I have been thinking about our situation. I realized that when Marty was born, Daisy was 1 and Emily was 2. I'm sure I thought of that before but that's a lot of young 'uns. Obviously your mother must have been super human (and still is)! Then you figure that when Isaac was born, Marty was 1, Daisy was 3 and Emily was 4. Maybe we should have had quadruplets and called it good. Instead, a couple of tries later we had Sadie and when she was born Isaac was 3, Marty was 5, Daisy was 7, and Emily was 8 (I think). Man, all this math is making me sleepy...singing by the choir.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

A Day That Will Live In Infamy

When I was a kid, the adults in my life lived through the Pearl Harbor attack and all had stories of what they were doing when they heard about it. The actual attack was during daybreak in Hawaii which would have made it around noon in our time zone. There were no TV reports because there were no televisions. People huddles around their radio's to get as much news as possible. There was no way they could have understood the severity of the attack. Can you imagine if Pearl Harbor had been attacked in our time with cable news and internet (well you probably could--9/11). Anyway, as a kid we always took some time at school on December 7th to talk about it and try to understand it's historical significance. The fact that we talked about an event that was growing more distance in time, never caused me to have ill feelings towards our then enemy, the Japanese (in fact later in junior high I made best friends with a Japanese-American student that lasted until after we went our separate ways after high school). But it did cause me to reverently appreciate the sacrifice of those who lost their lives on that day. Some time later in my life I had the privilege to visit the Arizona Memorial (pictured above). To me it a sacred place. Of all the things I saw in Hawaii, it's the most memorable in my mind. A boat takes you to the memorial and a parks service ranger tells the story. It's so real to be standing on that spot. The ranger pointed out a small oil bubble that periodically would surface and pop. It comes from the fuel tank, residue of what was once there. To me it symbolized the lives that were lost and the earthly remains that have been left on the ship. Every year, I feel to tell my students about that experience (even my fitness classes). Had those sailors survived they would now be grandparents and great grandparents and some would be passing away after living full lives. Those who lived through the depression and WWII have been called the greatest generation. Having been raised by such people, I'd not argue that recognition. Now having been an orphan for a few years, I appreciate even more their sacrifice. When I think of the times to come, I admit it worries me some. But then I look at what others have done and the fact that we all have each other, I'm much more optimistic.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Wise Words from Papa Steve

Livermore, CA
11/27/08
7:25 AM Pacific Standard Time

"If you think you're lying, but it's really the truth, it is still a lie."

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Happy Birthday Dona

I know the photo looks like we were posing in front of a fake background but this was the sunset in Merrillville Indiana on the evening of October 2nd 2008.  I can't post much information about your Mother's day of birth because I wasn't there.  I do know for a fact that on October 12 1953 a special blessing was welcomed in to the home of Earnest and Idon Anderson.  I'm not sure but I think that Dona was the favorite.  How could she not be.  All of her life she has lightened up every universe she has occupied; daughter, sister, friend, companion and lover, mother, teacher, advisor, librarian (official title is media center director but I like librarian better because it sounds more distinguished) and now grandmother.  As you know she has an unlimited capacity to love and serve.  She has always put her loved ones before herself.  When you were in school she recognized the importance of being available.  That's why you always found her on the couch when you came home from school.  She wanted to hear about your day and offer love and support.  She still does.  When you call on the phone I can hear the disappointment when I tell you that she's not home and you get stuck talking to me. Well I could go on but I won't.  I will share a little story.  When we were engaged, she stayed in Provo for 6 weeks to get a major class out of the way.  I went to LaGrande to earn some money (to pay for her ring).  We developed a code to use in our letters so they wouldn't sound sappy but yet still convey the deep feelings we have.  We would write, "Needless to say..."  With that we figured we covered everything.  Well, Dona--"Needless to say..."

Monday, October 6, 2008

Surprised? Not Really.


Nice job Daisy and Shayne on an awesome marathon. Daisy got 3:32 and Shayne 4:07. I'd ask for training advice, but I think I'll just stick with my five hours marathons, thanks. Anyway, Boston '09? We'll come watch this time.

Monday, September 8, 2008

Great New Blog

I found this sweet training blog. This guy is hard core. Check it out.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

To Papa, From Canyon: On his Birthday.


Dear Papa,
I have stitches on my head. Remember that one time when you came to my swimming lesson and then we went swimming at del Valle. I can ride my bike on the rocks and next time you come we can ride in the vineyard. Remember that one time when I watched Indiana Jones with you? You fell asleep and I went inside the house, I never fall asleep when I watch a movie. Remember when I came to play in the snow and me and you went and got a rope and a hot dog and a slurpy…that was a fun day. Happy Birthday. He was fifty-five? and he turned fifty six.

Canyon

Monday, September 1, 2008

Dona and Steve: Pretty Decent Parents

Today, as I sat in dad's favorite Lazy-Boy recliner and ate some freshly baked cinnamon rolls while mom rocked CJ to sleep, I finally realized that I have it pretty good. I'm almost thinking of putting our house back on the market so we never have to move out (just kidding, dad). Here are a couple pictures from the famous half-marathon. Isn't mom tough? I think it's because she had such a great coach.


Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Isaac is 28

When Isaac came, he came fast. Dr. Hyde said that he need a catchers glove to protect his hands he came out so fast. I know I barely made it to the hospital. School hadn't started yet but we were in teacher meetings (those were the days). The next night he gave us a scare. Dona called me at home and woke me up. She was inconsolable. Isaac had a seizure and as she tried to explain to me what had happened it sounded really bad. I wasn't sure if his life wasn't in the balanced. Of course it turned out that it wasn't that bad, but for a short time I really worried (something I usually leave up to Dona). Eventually the concern was lessened. The hospital sent him home with his mother but Dr. Hyde wanted him on medication to be sure it didn't happen again. The meds kept him from crying and I figured it was a blessing in disguise. By the time his first year was up, he had some painful tests and was determined to be ok. Now look at him! When I filled out his birth certificate, I had to look up the spelling in the Holy Bible. I wanted to name him Isaac because I knew he would test my faith and Spencer because he was born on the day after my Father's birth date. They usually celebrated their birthdays together. In fact one birthday at Ludeans in Willard, I threw a wooden log at him (he was stacking) and it crushed the tip of his finger. That's why his finger looks so messed up. Now I look up to him. I'd have to say that of all the sons I have, he's got to be in the top two. Happy Birthday Isaac.

Friday, August 15, 2008

34 Years

Can you believe it?  This good looking chick has been mine for 34 years.  This morning I asked her if she'd do it all over and without hesitation she said, "yes!"  I couldn't agree more.  

Monday, August 4, 2008

Hyrum Washington


Even though he could beat CJ up, he still is pretty cute. Great blessing, Marty and Bonnie.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Spudman '08





Looks like Isaac took home the trophy this year. Christian and I have already started our training for next year. But personally, I think Mom probably deserves it for watching the little girls all day.

Monday, July 21, 2008

Sadie's Birthday

Bear Lake is about 40 miles from Logan.  Dona was very pregnant and we were living at Camp Hunt at Bear Lake.  Every Friday at scout camp was busy with a campfire and finalizing merit badge signings.  Ross, Ann, and Julene came for a visit.  They planned on spending the weekend.  Early the next morning, Dona woke me and said, "It's time!"  I drove the Logan Canyon road faster than ever.  When we got to the hospital the nurse checked Dona and said, "Not yet."  We drove home to Hyrum and went to sleep (well at least I did).  Around 8:00 am we went back to the hospital and Dona was admitted.  For the first time, Dona had an epidural and she thoroughly enjoyed the experience.  I wasn't sure she was suffering enough but soon Sadie was born.  Dr. Hyde caught her as she came out and the first thing he said was "You better name her Stephanie because she looks like you" (meaning me).  I couldn't think of anything meaner than to name her Stephanie.  I've never liked that name and we already chose Sadie for a girls name (if she'd had been a boy my choice was Beaux).  In her 24 years, Sadie has keep the parental suffering at a minimum.  Fortunately she wasn't a boy or named Stephanie.

Friday, July 18, 2008

California and Back

Chill about the music, it's the only music I have in my i-tunes library

Monday, June 30, 2008

Clayre's New Do

What do you think, Daisy?

Friday, June 13, 2008

Hyrum and Angie

Here is another homework assignment for our tech class.  I hope it works.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Greetings from Yosemite

Well, the most interesting thing happened today.  Dona and I went to our tech class at the middle school.  One of the students in the class had the means to take us to Yosemite for a day. I know that's hard to believe, but there is a photo to prove our story.  You'll be proud of us because we are learning all kinds of fun computer things.  Look for more stuff from us in the near future.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Good ole Spudman!


So I was doing some cleaning today and came across my old Spudman trophy. I thought it would be fun to get all those racing pumped up and excited about the triathlon with just under 2 months left to train. Let's make it a friendly competition and whoever comes across the finish line first gets to take this bad boy home. Maybe we could even make this a yearly tradition and Mr. Spudman could become a traveling trophy. Of course I am only offering him up because I expect to bring him home myself.

So...bring it Christian, Isaac, and Em (?)! And for Team Marty, Elise, and Sadie (we need an official name here) you guys would have to divide up the time Mr. Spudman spends at each house. Okay. So it's out there. Good luck and good training!

Special thanks to Maggie for modeling with Mr. Spudman himself.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

High Tea


I think the Victorians had a bigger hold on us than we like to think. I mean, how is it that a hundred years later, in a different country, with different customs...little girls absolutely are born with the inherent need to pour tea? I don't get it. Regardless, that Alice can pour a great tea and eats pretend cucumber sandwiches with a relish that Queen Victoria herself couldn't emulate.

Say Cheese .. cake

Because people seemed to enjoy the cheesecake that we toiled over and then brought to CJ's blessing, we are willing to offer the recipe to the world (all the "we"s here of course indicate, Bonnie, though it should be noted that I did help with the whip cream in someway, though I can't remember exactly how ... perhaps opening it ...?).

1 can sweet & condensed milk
8 oz. cream cheese
1 tsp. vanilla
1/3 cup lemon juice
8 oz. cool whip

Mix sweet & condensed milk with cream cheese. Add vanilla and lemon juice. Fold in cool whip. Put in 9 x 13 pan lined with Lorna Dune cookies or a graham cracker crust. Top with 2 pkg. Danish Dessert & 1 pkg. frozen strawberries or other fruit.

Saturday, May 10, 2008

Mothers Day 2008

The other day in Priesthood meeting we were discussing parenting. It was kind of interesting because all of us in the room were past their prime of traditional “parenting.” Someone mentioned the 121st section of the Doctrine and Covenants where in verse 43 it says, “Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; and then showing forth afterwards an increase of love toward him whom thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy…” I considered my own experience with “reproving” and I can say that I was usually sharp but rarely moved upon by the Holy Ghost. I do remember on more than one occasion when my Father, while spanking me, said in all soberness, “This will hurt me more than it will hurt you.” You know, at the time I had my doubts but after considering the tender heart of my Dad, I believe he was speaking the truth. But without a doubt, I can say that my success in the process of parenting was assured when Dona agreed to be my partner. I’ve shown very little wisdom throughout my life but choosing her has been a crowning achievement. I’d be less than honest however if I didn’t admit that I had no conscious thought of such an outcome when we began dating, I was just attracted to a dang hot looking woman! In relation to that, I just recently asked her who was the most beautiful woman she has ever known and without hesitation, she said, “my Mom.” I knew she’d say that. I think she has inherited all her mother’s qualities. I wish I could remember who said it but some smart person (probably a general authority) said that the most important thing that a father can do for his children is to love their mother. Thanks Dona for making that so easy.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

The Three-Toed Sloth

Here is Parly's Three-Toed Sloth report. Thank you to Sadie and Christian for helping her come up with an interesting animal and researching all the cool information with her. She was so excited to do it. And now can't wait to show her teacher. It turned out great! And yes, her mother had a little hand in the presentation (ideas at least). Note: the facts are written on the leaves. Genius (I know). And the sloth hanging from the tree is made out of soft, fuzzy, brown paper making him more life like.

Saturday, May 3, 2008

May 3 About Daisy

Here are some facts that you might not know: Fact #1-When Emily was born, there was no one who needed to be watched at home but when Dona went into labor with Daisy, we had a plan. Clark (my brother) came to our apartment and took care of Emily. While driving Dona to the hospital, we unexpectedly ran into (not literally) a missionary companion. You know how that can go. After too long, I explained that Dona was in labor and we went on our way. Fact #2-For some reason, we didn’t plan on having a baby so soon after Emily was born and I’m still not sure how it happened but we didn’t have any insurance for Daisy. I was willing to leave her at the hospital until we could pay the bill but they let us take her home and we’ve been paying ever since. Fact #3-One of my many responsibilities has been to pick names. Daisy was named after the “America” song that has as its first line, “Flying me back to Memphis, gotta find my Daisy Jane.” I think it is the piano opening that got to me. Anyway, she’s not Daisy Jane (we saved Jane for Dustin and Emily), she’s Daisy Sue. Don’t ask me where the Sue came from (my Mom wanted Daisy May, get it, because she was born in May. She wanted to name Julene, June but she was born on July 1st). Fact #4-Very shortly after she was born, Dona took her and Emily to LaGrande while I went to Duchesne to find a place to live. While in Oregon, Dona got very sick and it was determined that she had a gall stone (the gall). Fact #5-During her infant stage, Daisy pretty much slept, ate, and P2 (pooped and peed). One time I came home from the pool (summer job) and found all three of them on the bed, Dona writhing in great pain, Emily playing on the bed and Daisy sleeping. We had a two bedroom apartment that just a month previous had been a stand alone garage (the mice hadn’t moved out yet). Fact #6-I don’t have time to fact check her toddler to prepubescent stage except to point out that she snuck (with the help of Emily) out and went to a movie with a boy before she was 16 (Parly and Lily should not read that part). Fact #7-She threw up (projectile vomit) all over my shoes when she finished 4th at the state cross country championship and I didn’t even mind. Fact #8-Shayne took her away from us (thank goodness) and she has become a wonderful wife and mother (even though she snuck out before she was 16).

Monday, April 28, 2008

Highlights





Highlights of our day:
  • Having Marty, Bonnie, Angie, Isaac, Elise, Mom, and Dad all make the trip to Farmington.
  • Mom putting CJ to sleep right before he was blessed. (Thanks to her he didn't make a peep.)
  • Bonnie's awesome dessert. So great, in fact, that after Marty and Bonnie left all the Wests kept wondering where that strawberry dessert went.
  • Better than Gristmill bread, meat, and avocados provided by Mom.
  • Elise, Bonnie, and Mom preparing everything for the sandwiches. I didn't lift a finger.
  • CJ being blessed in a onesie since he was already asleep when his blessing outfit showed up. Oh well, at least we got a picture of him in the real thing. He wore it just long enough to spit up on it.
Really, it was a great day, and CJ is glad everyone could come. He did mention missing his cousin Canyon and the Scott girls, but he is looking forward to seeing them in July.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

A Piece of Reeder Legend (and a tractor)

This message comes from the ever indomitable Ross Reeder, and either because my namesake coincides with the original owner of the house, or because dad wasn't sure how to post this on the blog, I now give you this Reeder Report:

REEDER FAMILY HOME

Dear Descendants of Joseph Martin Reeder:

The Reeder home located 631 N. Main Street has been in the Reeder Family since 1903. It was purchased by Joseph Martin Reeder and has remained in the family since that time. At present my wife Ann and I are the current owners of both the Reeder home and the adjacent two bedroom home that my Father, Spencer, built in the early 1960’s for Lula, his mother and Joseph Martin Reeder’s widow.

Now that our youngest has almost flown the coop, Ann and I are re-assessing our lives and the next direction we would like to take. A four bedroom home with large orchard and yard is wonderful to have, but takes some extra work at certain times of the year. Between the yard and the fact that we would like to downsize all of our “stuff” we have decided that we need something smaller.

Therefore, we plan to sell both the Reeder home as well as the Rental that was built for Grandma Reeder (Lula) next door. Prior to offering it for sale to the “General Public” we wanted to at least offer the opportunity to the descendants and family of the home’s longest owners, the Reeder Family.

If the thought of owning a piece of our history and heritage appeals to you or any of your family we would welcome the chance to keep it “in the Family”. For sale price and additional information please feel free to contact Ann or myself at 435-734-1263 or email us at annreeder33@msn.com.


Ross Reeder
Son of Spencer & Verna Reeder
Grandson of Joseph Martin Reeder

P.S. If you act now, the sale of the home includes a like new Ford tractor to farm the Reeder Orchard.

Friday, April 11, 2008

You're Invited


CJ is so excited for his baby blessing. I can't get him to stop talking about it. We're blessing him on April 27th at 9:00 a.m. Come if you can.

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

The "Call"

Mom and I are excited to share this news. Yesterday we finally got the call. The office of the First Presidency reached me at school yesterday and asked me for a time Dona and I could take a phone call from President Monson. Last night we took the call. At first we talked about the time we saw each other at Disneyland. He said he had a fond memory of the occasion. He especially remembered meeting our children. He was happy to hear that all are happily engaged in building the Kingdom. He then asked about our finances. Well, It just so happened that Dona had just paid off our mortgage and credit cards the day before so that went well. Then he asked if we would be ready to spend the next three years serving as a mission president. I asked if he had an English speaking mission in mind and he assured me that it would be. Well, to make a long story short, your Mother and I will be presiding over the Dugway Proving Grounds, Utah Mission. I'm really excited. Thirty years ago, we almost accepted a teaching job there so we've been there and have seen the countryside. I can't wait and neither can Dona. We will preside over one other missionary who will be going home in late September. There are no immediate plans to replace him. Anyway we are excited to let you in on the news. We're not allowed to tell anyone other than our immediate family until it comes out in the Church News sometime soon. Take care and have a great April First...Love Papa and Nana

PS
We were told that families could visit if they can get to proper papers so make plans now!

Sunday, March 23, 2008

And Then There was Daisy

She's sort of like Mary Poppins. Here's what our house looked like before she came:
  • Piles of dirty laundry, dirty diapers, dirty dishes in every room
  • Christian sleepwalking around the house at all hours trying to work, sleep, and change diapers all at the same time
  • Me crying and trying to nurse CJ
  • Sleeping two hours a night
After Daisy came, everything tasted, smelled, and looked better. I remember at one point, I saw her walk into my bedroom and walk out in what seemed to be three seconds. When I looked in my room my bed was made and all of CJ's blankets folded. I think I even saw a couple of mints on our pillows. Not to mention the wonderful night's sleep we had each night she stayed here. Before she left, she had dinner in the crockpot and rolls rising in the oven. She found time Saturday to go for a 10 mile run. It only took her little over an hour. In that amount of time, I think I moved from the couch to my bed.

Thanks, Daisy. You're amazing. As Emily said, you sure can pull through in a pinch. CJ misses you already.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Thanks, Everyone



CJ woke up this morning and wanted me to tell everyone thank you for coming to see him, and thank you to his aunts that keep calling and giving me advice. He appreciates it. He really likes the picture of him and Papa. I don't have the heart to tell him that Papa isn't really a surgeon. I figure we can tell him that when he's older. Thanks for coming. We love you all.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Welcome, CJ



Here are a couple of quick pics of CJ. Sadie did awesome and we were so blessed with his quick arrival. We're so excited to have him.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Isaac would be so proud.


So I rearranged the upstairs T.V. room a little while back. And finally put up the map that mom and dad got for Shayne for his birthday (last year). It all turned out great. I even framed the map using a method I learned from Isaac. I took a trip to Home Depot and bought unfinished base boards. I didn't have any way to cut the wood at an angle so I just went over to one of the houses in our neighborhood that is being built and asked a guy there if he could cut the ends at an angle for me. "Not a problem." Nice! Then I came home and stained it, lathered on some finish, and then nailed it to the walls using finishing nails. Isaac are you impressed yet? Well needless to say, the room looks a million times better. Now Isaac this does not mean you have been replaced. Actually our list for you continues to grow.... Hey, any plans yet for summer? Just kidding. Or am I?


Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Good Times

Thanks for a good weekend. I'd like to think that you all came just for me, but I know you'll take any excuse you can get to visit mom and dad. And I don't blame you. I'm just glad I happened to see everyone and get presents, too. On a side note, we went to the doctor's and had another ultra sound yesterday. The baby (still a he) is growing and doing well. He's almost six pounds right now--which is weird because I've gained almost seven pounds. It just doesn't quite add up. (Seven pounds or seventy pounds....I can't quite remember which it is.) Anyway, it really does mean a lot for you everyone to come. Here are a few highlights from the weekend:






Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Friday Night Visitors

This is Isaac at 7:00 p.m. Friday night.This is Isaac at 9:30 p.m. Friday night--after sleeping on the couch for the hour before. You can thank Elise for the toothbrush. If it would have been up to him, he would've gone to bed without. I mean, come on, he was on vacation.

Thursday, February 14, 2008

My Valentine

When I get older, losing my hair, many years from now. Will you still be sending me a Valentine, birthday greeting, bottle of ...non alcoholic apple cider? When I stay out til quarter to three, will you lock the door? Will you still need me will you still feed me, when I'm sixty-four?

I just delivered about 100 sugar cookies to the track team. Of course, Dona wasn't able to be there to accept the 100 x thanks from the hungry student athletes. Little do they know how much work went into this years batch (as well as every other year). All I know is that when I'm around her, she makes me look real good. I only hope I do the same for her. Needless to say...

Valentine's Day


I was just thinking about how Valentine's Day was really a big event in our house, what with the widow's cookies and all. I tell you what...I am REALLY craving a huge heart cookie with pink frosting and my name written, in perfect cursive, across the top. Any chance in getting one next weekend? Just a thought.

Friday, February 1, 2008

Boys All Around


Congratulations Marty and Bonnie on making a boy. We knew it was possible. Daisy? Shayne? You might want to give it another shot. I think there's something in the air...

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Let's Celebrate!


Maggie had her 18 month doctor's appointment yesterday. Everything went well. She now weighs 20 lbs. 4 oz. Hooray!!! She gained almost 3 lbs since her 15 month appt. Awesome! She even grew 2 inches. Now she is on the charts. 4th% in weight and 8th% in height. We'll take it! So a little shout out to little Maggs.

Monday, January 28, 2008

Jane's Very First Birthday


Jane had her birthday on Saturday. She's pretty proud of her cupcake eating abilities as well as her walking abilities, yes walking.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

This is for you Sadie!

Sadie, since you have been feeling a little under the weather. I thought watching this might cheer you up a bit. Enjoy!

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Sunday, January 6, 2008

Link to Spudman

Sign-ups start at noon tomorrow. Don't forget. It should be fun. I think Daisy, Emily, Christian, and Isaac are doing the whole thing and Marty, Elise, and I are doing a team. And thank goodness for Shayne. He'll be on the sidelines cheering us all on. Oh yeah, here's the link: burleylions.org/spudman.html

12:00 sharp (and 11:00 for Emily...I'll take care of Isaac and the teams)

Mom and Dad, do you think you could brave the cold Burley weather to come watch?

Thursday, January 3, 2008

Triathlon Anyone?


I don't know how it crept up on us, but the Spudman Triathlon is only 205 days away! The sign-ups (I think it's a lottery-type sign-up) start this Monday, and Christian has been planning on competing. I'd like to do something, too. But I was thinking of doing it as a team. Anyone interested? The race is on July 26th--the last Saturday in July. It's a 1.5 K swim, 40K bike, and a 10K run. I was thinking that I would do the running leg, since that would probably be the easiest for me to train after the baby. But I'm open to do the swim as well if someone (dad, Shayne, Daisy, Elise, etc.) wanted to do the run. It could be a fun little reunion for the family. Some of you might even want to do the whole thing, which would be great. Or we could do two teams if enough people could do it. The cost is a little steep--$50 per person, but you get a t-shirt AND a swim cap so in the end you almost make a profit. Anyone interested? Come on Daisy, remember the glory days!

By the way, I'd love to see both Emily and Marty on the swim. I have a feeling Emily would dominate...and Dustin and Isaac on the bike for that matter.

Tuesday, January 1, 2008

December 31, 1975

Dona and I had rented (yes rented because we were too poor to own one) a color TV so we could watch the Tournament of Roses parade on News Year Day (well and maybe to watch the Rose Bowl football game...pre ESPN if you can imagine such a time). Around 10:30 PM Dona started to have some pains. Because this was her first, I didn't think that she could possibly know for sure. However, just to be on the safe side, we went to the emergency room of the Utah Valley Hospital in Provo to check it out. It was determined that she was indeed in labor so they checked her in and placed her in one of the many labor rooms (this is Utah Valley and they need many labor rooms). I initially had hopes that maybe we could have the New Years baby but there must have been 13 or 14 babies delivered between midnight and 7:00 AM when our little baby girl was delivered. In those days we had no idea of the baby's gender before birth so although we had a name for a boy...we really weren't prepared for a girl. Emily was a name I had liked and I thought that if we added Anne her initials would be EAR and if eventually married a Prusso the initials would be EARP. I have always been a fan of the wild west and Wyatt Earp has always been a favorite character from that era. The rest is history. Emily Anne has grown to be a lovely women, wife, and mother. I sold her to her husband (Dustin) for a pick up truck. At the time, I thought it was a great deal but now after seeing their children I believe we should re-negotiate for something of more value. The negotiations on that will begin soon although I suppose I'd settle for being the ball boy at another Stanford football game.