Reeder Family Blog

Home Sweet Home Renovations

2011-09-12T13:45:00.000-07:00

Over the summer Emily mentioned that I should put a before and after picture of our house on the blog, so I finally uploaded my pictures and decided to do just that. So, here are some pictures displaying the most recent changes for the Smithfield Reeder's home.

Hey

2011-05-31T17:02:00.000-07:00

This is short and I just want to say I am back to blogging so check out my blog. So far only Sadie has noticed. Maybe nobody will see this either but for those of you who, do i'm here!!!

Un-patented ideas by Bonnie Reeder

2010-03-16T12:55:00.000-07:00

Special Note: Before everyone automatically dismisses this post, I should note that it is actually written by Bonnie, not Marty, and therefore has merit to it.

Every now and then I come across an idea. Something just clicks and I wonder, “Why has no one thought of that before?” Usually, when I think about it a little more I realize that though my idea is obviously brilliant, I have no clue how to make it happen. On pondering this problem, I thought that perhaps there are entrepreneurs out there running out of good ideas but with plenty of means to make things happen. So, I am offering up my good ideas, free for the taking. Some are a little more practical, some a little less. You’ll see…

First:

Wishing better:

In an increasingly cash-less world where people usually pay for things with card or check I get the impression that ponds and wishing wells are just not making the profit they used to. My idea is a card reader machine for ponds. People wanting to make a wish but finding no change on hand could swipe their card, choose the amount (much like an ATM) and then hear the sound effects of a coin splashing into the pool. I’m pretty certain that the luck proves just as effective with this method, so there you go wishing pond,---problem solved.

Oreo filling:

At Christmas time I was eating some Oreos (Thanks Emily) and when I was done I noticed that there was Oreo stuck pretty persistently in my teeth. After a brief brush the Oreo was still stuck but ironically just in all the places that I have cavities and need fillings. So, I thought to myself, why don’t they fill cavities that way? Granted, an edible cavity filling has lots of kinks to work out….if it becomes permenant on your teeth what keeps it from becoming permanent in your stomach? Someone else will have to work out those details… but I still think it’s worth investigation…..just imagine, eating an Oreo instead of getting your teeth drilled and filled.

Taking out the trash:

This is my sister Susan’s idea, so I can’t really take any credit. It’s simple enough I’m surprised it hasn’t already been done. The idea is to have garbage sacks already within the garbage sacks so that when you take one out, the next one is already there opened up and set to go. Think Matrusca dolls, for garbage sacks.

Ware’s the lid?:

Don’t you hate when you can’t find a matching lid to your Tupperware? Plenty of lids, plenty of Tupperware, but where’s the match? This solution is easy enough, what if Tupperware lids were somehow attached to the Tupperware? Maybe a hinge or maybe it rolls or zips to the side, or tucks in a compartment of the Tupperware? This should have been done a long time ago, somehow.

Cribside Vending:

I must give most of the credit for this idea to Marty, though I helped evolve it a little. I’ve seen little toy attachments for the side of cribs. You know, with things that sing, or light up or do anything to entertain a baby….well, why not a miniature vending machine?---stocked with pacifiers, and warm bottles of formula. Baby could simply push the button of the item desired and Voila!

Children’s Museum:

This is a very specific idea—-, but I think it would be fun if the old Skating Rink across from the tabernacle was changed into a Children’s museum. I think it would get a lot of business from children and moms during the Cache Valley winters.

Christmas Straws:

This is probably the most simple and do-able idea yet. Two nights ago I was drinking my juice from a licorice straw. After a moment of deep thought I wondered, why don’t they make hollow Candy Canes to use as straws for hot chocolate in the winter? Who wouldn’t want to sip their steaming cocoa through a Candy Cane straw? That would be easy and effective, right?

Last:

Idea site:

I’m sure I’m not the only one with ideas like this, so the last idea I would propose is that someone could start a website for un-patented ideas. This could be a great way to connect inventors with the means to make things happen and provide some free ideas to some business minded people.

Bring it!

2010-02-01T07:53:00.000-08:00

Is everyone ready for a little competition this summer? Let's make it hard for me to win (wink, wink) and make it an only swimming event. The Deer Creek Open Water Marathon Swim is August 14, 2010. You can choose from a 1 mile, 5 K, 10 K, or 10 mile swim. Each swimmer needs a support kayak, so I figured those that don't want to swim could help with that or we could recruit other people like Derek or Jeremy, etc. to help out. Who's in? Let's discuss and then sign up.

P.S: We didn't swim all our childhood for nothing, right?

A Proper Thank You

2010-01-21T16:21:00.000-08:00

I've tried to think of a proper way to tell Emily thank you for undertaking a huge quilting project for me, but I couldn't think of one, so I guess this will have to do. Thanks Emily!

I Think He Likes It

2009-07-29T08:28:00.001-07:00

Thanks, Em. I think cj's little brother will need one, too.

Thank You Nana & Papa.

2009-04-21T14:17:00.001-07:00

We were so happy to have Nana and Papa here for a visit over their spring break. We did some amazing things that included: lots of walks in the vineyard, a very rainy walk at Sycamore Grove, a trip to the Chabot Science Center, dinner and ice-cream at Fenton’s, a visit from Papa at school, a very patient Nana to help us make ‘pink’ cookies, lots of great discussions and some early birthday presents. We were sorry, as usual, to see them go but are counting down the days when we can come and see them.

Thanks for visiting!

Who is ready for a PRESCHOOL barn raising?

2009-04-08T13:07:00.000-07:00

Okay. So you all know I am doing a preschool this fall. And I thought it would be fun to have everyone (if they want-- Isaac, sorry you're a must) come and help get the room (s) ready. Doesn't that sound like fun? So when is the best time? End of May? Sometime in June? Let's discuss.

The Summer Games Triathlon is June 13th. Do we want to work around that? I know Dad mentioned coming to do it. They have a Sprint distance and an Olympic. And they also have teams. So everyone can join in.

Basically I need to paint and have Isaac build the tables that come down off the wall. Then organize a few things. Not tons, so we can have fun and do other things too. You know while the paint is drying. So lets do it!

Suprise

2009-04-01T11:10:00.001-07:00

Dona and I would like our grandkids to know that soon they will have a new uncle or aunt. We don't know for sure yet but it will be one or the other. I'm kind of excited because after practicing on five children we might do the best job yet. Because I'm retiring, I'll stay home with the child as soon as Dona can get back to work. Changing diapers hasn't been my best skill but I think I can learn. Nursing is going to be a problem but for a while I'll just take the baby to the LHS library for feedings. I'm planning on learning how to fish and hunt because I didn't do a very good job of that the first time around. Anyway, we just wanted you all to know about our upcoming blessed event and wish you all a very pleasant April 1st.

Milkshake Please.

2009-02-24T18:02:00.000-08:00

Canyon after dinner: "If everyone wants to have a milkshake, then milkshakes it is."

President's Day

2009-02-16T09:10:00.000-08:00

We are enjoying Presidents Day. Dona has been sick. She's had a really bad cough. I've tried to help her get better but I'm not as good at doing that as she is. We plan on watching "Pollyanna" today... probably just before we watch "24." I've gone through some recent photos and posted a few so you'll know that we've been active this winter. The first one is our snow shoeing hike on Martin Luther King Day. The second one was taken at the North End Zone (NEZ) facility at USU during Christmas vacation. The next one I call, "Angie, Nana, and the Bull." We went to the gymnastic meet and Angie got to meet "Big Blue." The last one is Clayre and Parly standing at the top of Angels Landing (just kidding) with the sun at their back. It is significant because it includes the sun--something we've seen little of this winter. Thus we watch "Pollyanna" on President's Day so we can be glad... about something!

Inauguration 2009

2009-01-20T20:41:00.000-08:00

I'd like to share some thoughts about today's inauguration of President Barack H. Obama. The first inauguration that I remember was the 1961 inauguration of President John F. Kennedy. I was about Parly and Lily's age. I became interested in presidential politics because my Grandma Reeder (Lula) was at one time an elected official. She was the elected Deputy County Clerk for Box Elder County for many years. My grandfather (her husband---Joseph Martin) died of a typhoid epidemic just two weeks before my dad was born. She was left with 6 children and no income. She raised that family by herself, much of the time during the "Great Depression." Eventually she found work with the county and later won election, running as a democrat, to a position she held for many years. By the time I came along she was just Grandma Reeder but her interest in politics was evident to me even though I was just a lad. Anyway, I remember going to her house (it was next door) the morning after the 1960 election. She was listening to election results on the radio. I remember her commenting positively on the young president elect from Massachusetts. Back to the inauguration---our third grade teacher (Miss Jones) made arrangements with a family who lived next to the school for our class to go to their home and watch President Kennedy take the oath of office (the school didn't have a television---can you believe that?). I remember very well his famous speech when he said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." One of my friends was miserable. I thought he must be sick so I asked him if I could do anything for him. He replied, "I'll be sad for eight more years, don't try to cheer me up." I had to go home and ask my dad why my friend was going to be sad for eight years. Turns out his dad was the chairman of the county republican party.

Rock Off

2009-01-14T20:39:00.000-08:00

Scientists have discovered that what once was considered an ancient process in determining who would do a specific task, is actually genetically part of human make up. Two small boys were recently photographed doing rock, paper, scissors in a laboratory in Logan, Utah. The lead researcher, who asked not to be identified, said that the process has never been observed in humans so young. Cool huh?

631 North Main Street

2009-01-02T16:09:00.001-08:00

As you probably know, Ross and Ann have sold the Joseph Martin Reeder home. I'm not in the least bitter. It would be nice if it stayed in the family but that's not always possible. We went to see it for the last time and got a chance to visit with all my brothers and sister. I realized that the building isn't near as valuable as the people. We'll always be able to get together and swap stories about being the children of Spencer and Verna and "that has made all the difference."

I'm not sure if he likes it.

2008-12-31T12:26:00.000-08:00

Isaac & Elise: Merry Groundhogs' Day?

2008-12-25T08:54:00.000-08:00

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...

First Presidency Christmas Devotional

2008-12-15T08:41:00.000-08:00

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

Where did those kids come from?

2008-12-10T13:38:00.000-08:00

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.

A Day That Will Live In Infamy

2008-12-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

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.

Wise Words from Papa Steve

2008-11-27T07:26:00.000-08:00

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."

Happy Birthday Dona

2008-10-11T21:59:00.001-07:00

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..."

Surprised? Not Really.

2008-10-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

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.

Great New Blog

2008-09-08T11:59:00.000-07:00

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

To Papa, From Canyon: On his Birthday.

2008-09-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

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

Dona and Steve: Pretty Decent Parents

2008-09-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

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.

Isaac is 28

2008-08-26T14:10:00.000-07:00

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.

34 Years

2008-08-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

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.

Hyrum Washington

2008-08-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

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

Spudman '08

2008-07-30T09:05:00.000-07:00

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.

Sadie's Birthday

2008-07-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

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.

California and Back

2008-07-18T20:12:00.000-07:00

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

Clayre's New Do

2008-06-30T17:14:00.000-07:00

What do you think, Daisy?

Hyrum and Angie

2008-06-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

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

Greetings from Yosemite

2008-06-11T18:41:00.001-07:00

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.

Good ole Spudman!

2008-05-28T12:33:00.000-07:00

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.

High Tea

2008-05-22T15:06:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

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.

Mothers Day 2008

2008-05-10T17:50:00.001-07:00

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 121^st 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.

The Three-Toed Sloth

2008-05-07T08:06:00.000-07:00

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.

May 3 About Daisy

2008-05-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

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 4^th 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).

Highlights

2008-04-28T07:24:00.000-07:00

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.

A Piece of Reeder Legend (and a tractor)

2008-04-16T06:17:00.001-07:00

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.

You're Invited

2008-04-11T16:12:00.000-07:00

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.

The "Call"

2008-04-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

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!

And Then There was Daisy

2008-03-23T16:25:00.001-07:00

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.

Thanks, Everyone

2008-03-20T12:29:00.000-07:00

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.

Welcome, CJ

2008-03-18T19:22:00.001-07:00

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.

Isaac would be so proud.

2008-03-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

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?

Good Times

2008-02-27T08:10:00.000-08:00

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:

Friday Night Visitors

2008-02-20T08:01:00.001-08:00

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.

My Valentine

2008-02-14T16:04:00.001-08:00

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

2008-02-14T13:56:00.001-08:00

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.

Boys All Around

2008-02-01T15:15:00.001-08:00

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...

Let's Celebrate!

2008-01-30T07:34:00.000-08:00

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.

Jane's Very First Birthday

2008-01-28T08:57:00.000-08:00

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

This is for you Sadie!

2008-01-17T21:18:00.000-08:00

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

Check Out Emily's Socks

2008-01-10T12:01:00.000-08:00

Link to Spudman

2008-01-06T16:47:00.000-08:00

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?

Triathlon Anyone?

2008-01-03T07:22:00.000-08:00

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.

December 31, 1975

2008-01-01T10:37:00.000-08:00

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.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-19T15:07:00.000-08:00

Canyon came over to me yesterday all cryptic-like and said:

C: I know what to get papa for Christmas.

me: Oh? What should we get him.

C: Some knew running shoes. (Apparently Canyon doesn't know about Papa's closet)

me: That's a good idea.

C: mom, I know what to get nana, too.

me: What should we get her.

C: A book.

I think he pegged it. So if any of you aren't sure what to get them, now you know.

Happy Birthday Kate and Christian!

2007-12-17T10:56:00.000-08:00

Christian,
Here are a few video clips of the girls. I'm sure you are missing them a lot! Happy Birthday!

December 11, 1978

2007-12-11T13:20:00.000-08:00

December 11, 1978; a day that will live in Marty's infancy. I'd like to tell this story from my point of view (which was admittedly fairly painless). It was on a day just like this...Dona drove me to school on that day (remember we lived in Hyrum) because she had a appointment with the doctor. At that time, I taught two periods of English at the beginning of the day. I was finished with my English classes and was headed to the PE office. When I got there, the phone in the office was ringing but someone had jammed a pencil where the key goes. I couldn't get in. Just then, the school secretary ripped open the boys locker door and frantically told me that Dona was having a baby...right now! I dropped everything and ran to the front of the school (by the main office) right past Dona and to the car which was parked out front. I got to the car and paused and thought, who was that pregnant lady I just passed in the hall? Eventually I got everything straightened out. We drove to the hospital which at the time was kitty corner from the Logan Temple. While we waited for Marty to be delivered, we watched David Letterman (who at that time had a day time talk show). He was funny and I remember that Marty was delivered without too much trouble (Dona may have a better point of view on that). That afternoon, I went back to school to coach the wrestling team. When I walked in the wrestling room, everyone stopped and looked at me. I said, "It's a boy!" and they all cheered. We had been saving the name, Joseph Martin Reeder (my Grandfather's name), for our first born son. Emily and Daisy were just not right for the name so we just kept waiting. As you know, I never knew my grandfather because he died from a typhus epidemic in 1923 just weeks before my father was born. From what I do know, he was a good man. I'd say that so far, Marty has done right with his name. Happy Birthday Marty!

Poppa's Little Girl

2007-11-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

This seemed to be an appropriate picture after Angie's post. We caught Parly reading this on her last visit to Logan. I don't know if you can read the title, but it's the "Limbaugh Letter."

Daddy's little girl.

2007-11-19T11:42:00.000-08:00

The other morning when Angie and I woke up I left her in the living room for a moment while I searched the kitchen for something. When I returned this is how I found her. Although there was never any doubt before, I am even more convinced now that she is definitely her daddy's girl.

Thanksgiving

2007-11-14T13:11:00.001-08:00

Lily wrote this poem and didn't want anyone to read it. So here it is.

T hanksgiving is a wonder full time.
H alloween is over lets all make a rime.
A ll come to our house to cellebrate.
N ana Papa is so great.
K aia Dylan come cellebrate.
S o time to cellebrate yes all of you
G iving thanks to all the Pilgrams
I love thanksgiving here it comes
V elvet red and orange and yellow
I love those color yes them all
N ana bring the turkey she's
G iving food to all the family!

By Lily

Sick Christian

2007-11-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

The good news is that Christian gets to work from home again. The bad news is that if CAPSA gets a hold of this photo, I might go to prison.

Happy Halloween 2007

2007-11-01T06:32:00.000-07:00

Costumes: Clayre- China girl, Shayne- Old Man (yes, he shaved 1/2 his head), Maggie- Halloween Princess, Me- me, Kate- Porcelain doll, or China doll as she calls it, Parly- Bride

Little Coach Reeder

2007-10-31T16:26:00.000-07:00

I thought these were some pretty good action shots of Coach Reeder. Don't let them fool you, though. Isaac is as calm and relaxed a coach as we all knew he would be. Still, he's a pretty good coach. In fact, I saw him take the coat of his back (in the rain) and give it to one of his runners. If Marty's team ever comes south a little bit I will get some good ones of him, too.

Article Reveals All!

2007-10-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

Papa was featured in today's Herald Journal, with a picture even. Please note the Dean-esque hat. Props to Papa!

http://hjnews.townnews.com/articles/2007/10/23/sports/sports01.txt

Happy Birthday Clayre-Bees

2007-10-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

I still remember the day you were born. I got to come to the hospital and hold you. I can even remember how you looked--sort of like a baby. Hope you have a good day. Ask your daddy to take you bowling.

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you...You get the idea.

2007-10-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Nana's birthday. Oh how I wish we were staying in Little America and eating at the Rodigio Grill...To be followed by plenty of thrifty shopping at Gateway. Maybe next year. But anyway, just wanted to wish the most amazing mother a happy of happy birthdays and to say that as I begin my own career as mother...it never ceases to amaze me how mom did it. She always seemed to know what to do and so calm and so not how I feel 95% of the time. I know that Daisy feels confident as the best mom in the world, but I sometimes feel lacking. I do know one thing though, mom has been a great example to me and so many times when I'm in the middle of some parenting crisis I think--what would mom do? And if I can maintain a Dona calmness...it works.

Anyway, thanks for everything you did and do for us. You're not only the best mom ever, but the best grandma ever, too.
Here's some great memories: please add to it:

Valentine's day cookies
A lesson on prayer (otherwise known as "There's a bird in the garage!!")
Not afraid to say "shit"
Reading "The Hobbit" followed by the Redwall series...even up until teenage years and beyond
Christmas mornings
Getting up with us on early morning swim mornings
Coming to every swim meet/track/cross country/marathon....
A GREAT public speaker (her "sport" as dad puts it)
Bringing home milkshakes
Always packing great little toys/activities on long trips
Carrying everyone's jacket/toys/books/everything without ever complaining
Gasping in terror and then sighing with relief any time someone gets near even the tiniest bit of a ledge
Running on the mini-tramp in the basement in Hyrum while listening to Neil Diamond
Always having plenty of food for everyone
Great storytelling and letter writing
Good sport in every FHE when dad gave us the "You're not helping your mother enough" speech
Nice enoughs
Making everything fun
Calling me at school with the answer to the last crossword puzzle word that we just couldn't figure out

Love ya mom.

Good Luck Shayner (and Daisy??)

2007-10-04T07:25:00.000-07:00

With the marathon just two short days away, I thought we could all wish Shayne good luck since we'll be sleeping peacefully in bed while he's running. This picture might give you a little inspiration, Shayne. This man is running the St. George marathon. He may be twice your age, but he did qualify for the Boston marathon with a time of 3:33:40. So just look for Russ Barber to pace you to success!

The book that we get at the library EVERY time we go.

2007-10-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

Constructions for Canyon’s flying ship:
It has a sail on the point with a cabin, um, with a blue flag, and I’m going to take a port-a-potty, or maybe Jack’s little potty. And I’m going to take my pirate book and some pillows to sleep on. And I’ll wear my pirate clothes: they look like a red jacket and a red striped bandana and barefeet. I’m not going to go anywhere, because I want to keep sailing and I got to get one more thing to take in my sailing ship. I’m going to take a paddle if there’s no wind. Guests: Dylan, Derek, Marty, both papas, Lily, mommy & daddy, and Alice and Jane and Jack…but that’s a lot of people, but my ships tiny it’s only this wide. That’s enough people for my flying ship (sorry if you didn’t make the cut). I’m going to take one more thing—I’m going to take a anchor. We’re going to use lots of people, but we can’t use lots of them in our town. And apples because that’s pirate food—applesauce for baby Jane. I want to bring my legos.

Maybe candles so we can see in the dark and a tv with a movie: that might be fun. And a three-cornered pirate hat. We can bring my magazine too. I think that’s enough.

Quiet Week

2007-10-01T13:57:00.000-07:00

It was another quiet week in Cache Valley. Dona and I actually traveled to Eugene Oregon for a Cross Country meet. Both teams were in some very heavy competition and our place wasn't that great but we did pretty good all things considered. We found the apartment I lived in as a missionary and tried to get an image of it.
The ESPN Gameday crew was in town for the Cal/Oregon game. They set up quite a stage and you probably saw me on TV Saturday morning.
We got home on Saturday night and on Sunday the leaves were beautiful. We took some pictures.

Extra, Extra

2007-09-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

I just found an awesome new blog. It is so awesome, it'll knock your socks off. www.sadiewest.blogspot.com

Baby Looks Like Daddy

2007-09-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

So, we told you guys that yesterday we had our ultrasound and we are so excited. It was kind of hard to get a very good image of the baby because it was wiggling around so much. But, if you look really closely, I think you might agree that it shares a slight resemblance with its father. I couldn't be prouder of the little tyke. At this point, Sadie is just hoping that its not a girl...or else she says she'll try and send it back.

Canyon's very expensive children's shoe

2007-09-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

Canyon: These shoes are getting tiny!
Me: No, your feet are growing.
Canyon: (with enthusiasm and a little jump on the chair) My feet are growing!
Me: Yep.
Canyon: Well, these shoes are still squeezy anyway.

Quiet Week

2007-09-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

Fall in my little home town is a thing of beauty. We had our first fall storm over the weekend and the mountains have a dusting of snow. We had the privilege of hosting Sadie and Christian for a couple of days. They are starting out nicely and are excited about the near and far future. Marty and Isaac got the beds out of our basement and now were are setting up our "workout" room. It will be state of the art with a treadmill, stationary bike, and heavy things designed to lift so that old people can be healthy and strong. I've limited myself to mowing the lawn just twice a week and I'm stunned at the spare time I have. Unfortunately, I can't listen to all the podcasts that I've downloaded from this thing called the world wide web. Canyon called on Saturday to see if it had snowed yet. At the time it was just rain but as I aforementioned, there is snow now. Next weekend Dona and I are going to Eugene Oregon to celebrate the 36th year anniversary of my transfer there as a missionary. Coincidently (thank goodness for spell check), there happens to be a cross country meet at the same time. I'm really glad that Dona can go because she's fun and she cares for me! Last weekend we attended a sacrament meeting that Justin Reeder happened to be the speaker. He's going on a mission to Everett Washington. Since he's going to the northwest, I thought I should go and help him understand the language and people. We had a great visit with the Clark Reeders plus Julene and Linda. That's the news.

How to Bake a Chocolate Cake before 11:00 a.m.

2007-09-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

7:00 Wake up
7:30 Take a shower
7:52 Drive to Smith’s. Buy Hershey’s cocoa and a bag of sugar ($5.00)
8:10 Preheat oven
8:12 Mix ingredients in Kitchen Aid and ignore the recipe’s directions to use two cake pans. Instead use one bundt pan.
8:14 Put cake in the oven
8:45 Smell burning in the kitchen and find the cake overflowing
8:46 Call Emily and ask her what to do—start the kitchen on fire or ruin the cake. Decide to leave the cake in the oven (ignore the smells of smoke) until the timer goes off
8:48 Smell burning
8:52 Put a knife in the cake…it comes out soggy, not clean.
9:02 Watch a smoking piece of cake start on fire
9:03 Turn off oven and remove half-burnt/half-raw cake
9:04 Call Daisy and tell her about the cake and then talk to her on the phone about other things
10:20 Scrape some of the cake crumbles into a pile on a plate
10:22 Try some of the pile and burn tongue
10:30 Drive to Smith’s and buy “Triple Fudge Chocolate Cake” ($3.00)
10:45 Go to Christian’s work and present chocolate cake to him and his coworker
11:00 Enjoy

Cell No!

2007-09-17T15:37:00.001-07:00

Alright. It's like an awkward silence having no one post something for a while, so fine ... I'll break the ice. So ... uh ... how's the weather?

But seriously ... this year's student body officers have, for some reason, really tackled the issue of cell phones in class. Not only that, but they emphatically support their complete eradication! What kind of student hopes that cell phones won't be allowed in school? Either the direly unpopular (which we can assume they are not, due to the fact that they were elected into office), or those that have had a profound, anti-cell phone influence earlier on in their life. I would submit that, having taught six out of the eight of them, I was the influence behind it all. I mean, we cannot dismiss the fact that I confiscated about one hundred of the blasted thing the year before (I didn't start keeping track until the middle of the first trimester). For their campaign against cell phones, the student body officers have come up with a couple different slogans and catch phrases, one of which was the aforementioned title to this post, "Cell No!", and the other is "Weapons of Mass Distraction." I was given the honor of being the first teacher to witness the t-shirt design for "Weapons of Mass Distraction"---a cell phone with a skull and crossbones and a mushroom cloud behind it. Wow. To say that I am flattered is an understatement. It seems as if the whole school is bending to my will. The minute they take out hallways and replace them with canals, issuing everyone a small sailboat to get around the school, then I'll know that I have entirely won over the community.

No Words

2007-09-06T16:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Poppa!

2007-09-04T14:29:00.001-07:00

Some great things about dad:
1. He tells stories about the kid with no legs (or a wooden leg, or prosthetic leg, or some sort of leg problem).
2. He mows the lawn two maybe three times a day.
3. He loves to "hate" JD (sorry Brooke).
4. He put up with three grown college kids living at home for what seemed like forever.
5. He drives to St. George or Livermore (or Farmington) at the drop of a hat.
6. He plays with the grandkids.
7. He takes us to Angie's, buys us running shoes, and allows mom to take her girls on shopping sprees.
8. He would buy pants at Nordstrom's because Glenn Beck says so.
9. He knows everything.
10. Everything.
11. He runs every day.
12. He goes on walks with mom.
13. He reads a lot.
14. He tortured his children by making them exercise.
15. He gives good advice.

Feel free to add some more highlights. Anyway, Happy Birthday, Dad!

Parly's Baptism

2007-08-24T09:06:00.000-07:00

Parly is going to be baptized on Sept. 1st. Everyone is invited to come. The baptism is at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. We will also be having a dinner party (as Parly likes to call it) afterwards at our house....so come and enjoy!

Parly is very excited and would love to share this day with all of you.

Being Pregnant Stinks....Literally

2007-08-23T15:50:00.000-07:00

It's not that I haven't enjoyed these ten weeks so far. They've actually been alright for the most part especially because I get to do a lot of things I wouldn't normally do--such as buying the "expensive" cereal and craving things like chicken fajitas from Chilis and Country Time strawberry lemonade (good stuff). Besides which, pregnancy is a really great excuse to fall behind on little things like laundry, cleaning, and cooking. So for the most part I have no complaints, but there is the smell thing. Everything stinks. Well, not everything. In fact, it's mostly the normal, good smells that get to me like toothpaste, mouthwash, Christian's deodorant, Christian's shampoo, Christian's shaving cream and aftershave (that's a killer), Christian's cologne, and Christian's soap. Other smells like BO and bad breath don't really get to me, which is why I have stopped using deodorant, lotion, and toothpaste altogether (fun for Christian). But I knew it was really bad when Christian passed by me the other day, and I said, "Your breath is killing me!" Ironic because he teeth smelled exactly like minty fresh crest. Sorry, Christian. Hopefully we can kiss again in nine months, but until then, everything just sort of stinks.

the Parly's b-day blog

2007-08-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

Parly Sue have the happiest bestest wonderfulest awesomest birthday... !!!!!

the neighborhood scan

2007-08-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

So ... Papa and I were invited to the elite neighborhood potluck supper party at the Sweetens. I was dang excited, until Papa got the flyer from Brother Sweeten at church. I was suppose to bring a casserole!!!! Brother... have I ever!!!! made a casserole in my life?! I wanted to get Bonnie's famous lasagna recipe, but I never got around to it. Sadie suggested the rice, chicken and broccoli dish... all of your chicken enchiladas sounded good. Well... Monday was a long day at school, getting ready for the Freshman day (over assembly and junk and other junk) and so at 5:10... I panicked --- even frozen lasagna was out because it takes two hours. (Party at 6:00)... so I called Olive Garden... do you have something yummy, fast, and unique... why sure for a lot of $$$... no problem!! I ordered a pan of "Braised beef & Tortelloni"... whatever. So picked it up at 5:51... called Dad from the take out line telling him I was on my way. Got home... opened the tin dinner pans... threw the stuff into one of my glass 9 x 12... put tin foil on the top and there we went. ... Whew! Made it at 6:07... placed it on the table and blended into the crowd. Success!... Well, not exactly... everyone wants the recipe!!! Usually I'm good to say... they're frozen rolls from Rhodes... but everytime anyone asked Steve would start laughing... and so would I. So it became worst! We left without letting on. (Did I just end that sentence with a preposition?) Having great confidence in Google and entered "Recipes that you don't want to own up on the fact that you cheated and bought them from Olive Garden after serving them in the neighborhood"... and ola! We got something close enough. Now I just have to make it in my leisure time and see if it is at all similar... Oh the life of the almost retired... lov nana dona

Big Canyon...Little Canyon

2007-08-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Bear Claw Canyon

Captain Canyon

You guys asked for it!

2007-08-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

There you have it. Kate with 4 staples in the back of her head.

August 15 1974

2007-08-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

That's right. It was on a day just like this 33 years ago that "our" family began. It was quite a day and if you'd asked me then what it would be like 33 years later there is no way I'd have figured it could have been so good. I know that as a couple, we had hopes of children but by the time I realized the cause, we had five. As I watch the next generation grow I marvel at the process. I often ask myself, "When did that happen?" I'm talking about things like crawling, walking, toilet training, talking, and so on. It all seems a blur. I'm thinking that grand parenting is a way to watch kids grow up in slow motion as compared to the speed of light that children grow. I suppose most of the reasons my memory suffers is because I wasn't as involved in the nurturing process as fathers are now days. At any rate, I look forward to many more experiences with my sweetheart. Once while we were courting, I played Dona the Beatles song with the line, "will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I'm sixty-four." So far, so good! As I write this I imagine that I'm writing to our children. I'd like them to know that I'm proud of each of you. I'm especially proud of your choices, particularly your spouses. It's also very comforting that you are all, in many ways, like your Mother. I've said before, I'll never be as giving as her, but she did choose me and that has made all the difference.

Anxiously Waiting...

2007-08-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

...to see Kate's head with staples. It might gross me out, but I still want to see it.

Starring Parly and Lily

2007-08-08T10:03:00.000-07:00

Utah State vs. BYU

2007-08-04T13:35:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to point out that Alice and her little friend, Amy, are already fightin' that battle.
p.s. Alice can kick Amy's butt.

Harry Potter anyone?

2007-08-02T15:07:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of Harry Potter, Book 7, which I will not discuss...unless everyone else has finished it--I'm posting a pic of cousin Jared Anderson and his wife, Tonks (I mean Jessica) and their clever costumes. They're son Isaac is a mandrake and daughter is a seeker for griffindor. I guess they won every costume contest they could... Check out their blog for details Jaredandjessica.blogspot.com

Happy Birthday Sadie!

2007-07-21T15:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Happy Birthday Sadie Dear.
Happy Days will come to you all year.
If we had one wish, then it would be.
A Happy Happy Birthday to You from me...us.
We love you Sadie!!!!

Fourth of July Lamb chops anyone?

2007-07-19T16:02:00.000-07:00

Oh the possiblilties of seeing the man down the street about a sheep!

Happy Birthday Little Shayner

2007-07-13T11:51:00.001-07:00

Hey, go golfing on us big guy. Happy Birthday!

Fun times in Logan

2007-07-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here is Clayre playing in Bear Lake. She did not want to get out of the water, what a fish!

We had such a great time in Logan. The girls enjoyed: Ryan's Park, running home from Ryan's Park, running and diving in Nana and Papa's pool in the back yard, hitting balls into the neighbor's backyard for $5, buying a bracelet, little purses and pens from vendors at the Gardener's Market, watching lots of Masterpiece Theater movies, playing with Christian and Sadie and Marty and Bonnie and Isaac and Elise, swimming in Bear Lake, having La Beau's Too shakes and fries, watching fireworks in the streets two nights, eating lots of yummy yummy food, going to church and listening to Nana speak, and most especially being with Nana and Papa in Logan for 5 days!

A Nana Day

2007-07-10T16:33:00.000-07:00

Lily came home from swimming the other day, exhausted, and said that she wanted a sugar cookie or a cinnamon roll and a story. And I said, "it sounds like you just need Nana." Yep. Sometimes we just need a Nana day.

another coach reeder

2007-06-29T08:34:00.001-07:00

check out HJnews.com.... for today (Friday)... another Reeder coach article in the sports section!