Resolutions

Ending the year 2013 brings New Year resolutions.  I am not making any new ones for 2014--my old ones still need working on!  I made a plan a few years ago for my eternal progression, my family relationships, and my personal progress.  I have made progress in each area, but they are certainly ongoing.  We are celebrating the New Year by going to a cabin in Midway with friends.  I'm really excited!  I'm also getting ready to take down Christmas...That is always a hard thing to do, but we can keep the Christmas spirit in our hearts.  Happy New Year!

Delightful December

I love December!  Of course having my birthday just before Christmas helps!  We had a family dinner on Sunday December 22nd and enjoyed the family.  I gave my children the first part of my life story and it brought up some interesting conversations.  Little Hudson kept us in laughter most of the evening too.  The next day I celebrated my birthday by going grocery shopping to get ready for Christmas.  Then my daughter, Jodi, took hubby and I to Zupa's for lunch.  Love eating there!  In the evening we enjoyed Mark's family for dinner and games.
Christmas Eve day we got a few more things at the store and then I made potato salad, Sarah salad, and prepared things for our baked beans.  On Christmas morning I started the beans and made Monkey Bread.  The kids started coming at 10:15 am and we had everyone there to enjoy gifts and laughter.  Steve, Sue, Addie and Patrick came in the early afternoon for lunch.  They also visited and played Pinochle.  It was a lovely day!  I also enjoyed the day after Christmas just doing my thing!

Merry Christmas

I can't believe I let November slide by without posting!  It was a busy month.  At the beginning of the month we had three grandchildren stay with us for eight days.  It was so much fun!  The only hard part was being up at 6 am. to get the kids off to school--fed and lunch in hand.  They were such good kids!  December has been cold and snowy!  We enjoyed the Mills Christmas parties and loved seeing everyone.  We also had a delightful Singles luncheon.  Then I "decided" to get sick.  I'm glad that it has been a fairly short duration.  I completed all of the shopping, wrapping, delivering neighbor gifts, mailed Christmas cards, and have done some of the food shopping.  I couldn't have done it without my special hubby!  He is amazing!  We have a family party tomorrow night to celebrate the birthday of some old lady. The rest of the week is enjoying the special blessings of Christmas and the birth of our Saviour.  Love this time of year!

Time Flies!

End of October already!  I have been feeling so much better and keeping so busy.  I'm half way through with a quilt for my son.  I have been enjoying teaching nursery.  I have gone to lunch with friends.  I have been to the Temple twice this month.  We have had family parties, games, and lots of friends stopping by for ice cream.  I like my new hearing aids.  I have enjoyed time with kids and grandkids.  This week we get three of the grandchildren who will stay with us for eight days.  Our son is working in Honolulu and his wife gets to go too.  We are decorated and eager for Halloween.  I love this time of year!

Autumn Fun

Wow!  Where did the summer go!  At least I'm feeling better and ready to enjoy the new season.  I do not have ear infection for the first time since June!  I am spending a lot of time researching hearing aids and trying to figure out what will be best for me.  I lost one hearing aid the day of my tube surgery and I'm eager to get back in the "know" of hearing.  We catered a Woodbadge dinner at Camp Tracy last Friday, and I've decided that I'm not as young as I used to be.  I don't think I'll sign on for that again--but it did turn out well.  Now I'm looking forward to the holidays--I'm ready to decorate for Halloween!  Tonight we enjoyed having our oldest grandson come to visit.  We took him to Golden Corral for dinner and then played Wizard.  We don't get to see him very often and it was so fun to catch up on his busy life.  I'm also eager to have a family dinner.  We haven't done that for a long time!

September--New Hope

What a summer!  Nine weeks total of antibiotics for ear infections.  Blood sugars bouncing all over.  Down flat and finally have energy--and down flat again.  But there is hope!  I see a light at the end of the tunnel!  I had a tube put in my ear--now I have one on both sides.  I hope it works as well as the first one because I will then be able to hear out of both ears!  I think I'll be able to get more done daily.  I think I will actually work on some projects.  I will enjoy life daily, because you never know when that will be challenged again.  I have enjoyed time with grandchildren, played games with family, spent time with hubby, and enjoyed time with friends.  I am trying to look for the good in each day.  There is hope!

August Already???

July was quite a month.  We enjoyed our first tomato on July 16th.  Nice crop this year. We also enjoyed the Mills swim party at Uncle Randy's.  It rained, but it was still a blast!  We were judges for a Dutch Oven Breakfast cook-off  that was tasty and fun.  I have spent a lot of time at doctor's offices this month--and eight hours at ER.  I guess I'm getting migraines now.  I have improvement in my left ear, but my right ear is worse.  I also have sinus infection.  I'm having another CT in two weeks.  August is our wonderful Mills Reunion at the Spruces.  Looking forward to that!  This July is officially the hottest July on record in Salt Lake--And I Survived!

Progress

I have had ear infections for six weeks.  Finally some progress in getting well.  I had a tube put in my left ear Thursday.  Friday afternoon my husband commented that I seem to have some energy.  Yes!  I am feeling a  little better!  Today I made a batch of Sloppy Joe for our Singles party on Monday.  I also made a meatloaf to put in the oven tonight.  I prepared my medication for the coming week and then did all the dishes I messed up with cooking.  I boiled some eggs for a macaroni salad.  I did a little decluttering.  I'm still hanging in there!  It feels so good to be able to do some things that I haven't had the energy to do for so long.  Hopefully things will keep improving~!

Maryland

Our vacation to Maryland was fantastic!  We loved the National Aquarium and the Cryptological Museum.  The boys seemed to enjoy it all--especially lunch at Pandera Bread.  We loved the time at the Larkin home! Their backyard is gorgeous with a beautiful forest behind the lawn.  We saw rabbits, squirrels, lightning bugs, birds (Yes even an oriole!) and butterflies.  We played games, watched movies, and got hooked on Doctor Who shows.  The boys are so energetic!  Loved being able to spend time with them.  We went to the Farmer's Market both Saturdays--which I've always wanted to do.  I think the highlight was going to Gettysburg, PA.  It is the one hundred-fiftieth anniversary of the battle this year.  I didn't realize what a huge area they battled in.  The country is beautiful!
The down side of the trip was two trips the ER for my ear infections.  However, I would rather be there and sick than staying home because I was sick.  I'm still having issues now that I  am home, but after three anti-biotics, I guess I'll have to go to an ENT next week.  At least I had a wonderful vacation to enjoy!

June is bustin' out all over!

June is only into the first week and has been packed with so many things--and more to come!  Hubby took his rocket launcher up to Kari's school and her 6th graders love it.  The girls couldn't wait for a turn to hold Hudson..
We also attended Alex's 6th grade graduation and enjoyed seeing how much these kids loved their teachers. Jordan and Katie participated in their school talent shows, but we weren't able to attend those. Last night we had dinner at the Spruces with Frank's brothers.  It was wonderful!  This weekend hubby is taking Alex to our Ward Father's and Sons at Scholfield. I have Jordan, Tanner, Rachel, and Katie overnight.  We are playing games, Hide N' Seek, visiting, and laughing.  Tonight we will have a movie night.  Todd and Donna are in St. George, and Mark and Carrie are in Wendover.  Tomorrow night we will attend an Open House for our grand-niece who is going on a mission to Scotland-Ireland Mission.  We are having dinner with my brother and his family on Monday.  On Thursday we are headed on a jet plane to Maryland to see our East Coast grandsons.  Wow!  LOVE IT!!!

Reflection

I often feel I just bounce around as I go through my day.  I go through the movements, but I seem to never accomplish the things I need to.  I have gotten away from the scriptures, my life story, genealogy, personal study, and housework.  I haven't been sticking to my schedule--or even making a schedule!  I wonder if I just need a change of scene, a change of goals, a change of heart.  My schedule has been fairly hectic.  That is surprising because I haven't had my car for a few weeks. ( Well, I had it two days...)  I have done things with my hubby, spent time with family and friends, and done more exercising.  I know I need to look at the good things and build on that.  I don't know if it the time of year for change or a time to have some rejuvenation.  I guess I need to take charge of myself and make a plan for moving forward into a wonderful, exciting summer.

Procrastination

I have been so rebellious!  I just haven't felt like blogging.  Life has been busy and I have met some challenges and just survived others.  I have struggled with a few things--as usual.  I have joined Weight Watchers and have lost 6 pounds.  I do best when I get out there and walk!  I enjoy having some "me" time and seeing the beauty around me.  I have been battling poor food choices, lack of scripture reading, getting housework done, and following through on commitments.  I wonder if I will ever "get it all together".  I just know that I have to plug along and do the best I can.  I love spending time with my hubby, time with my children, and time with the grandkids.  Life is good so I will perservere!!!

It's About Time....

Yes!  It's about time for me to get back to my blog.  I had such a good start in March and then fizzled out.  April has been very busy and enjoyable.  We have done a lot of entertaining and eating out, and playing games, and visiting.  It's springtime---but you would never know it with snow, cold winds, rain and cloudy days.  Occasionally we have a lovely spring day but they don't stay very long.  The upside to that is that the HOT days won't start so soon--maybe!
I have been working on projects and have completed a few and have groaned and continued on others.  At least it keeps me busy.  I have really enjoyed extra time with hubby.  We watch movies, play games, go out, go shopping together, and enjoy a few laughs along the way.  Love hubby time!

March 5

Today is the anniversary of the day that I was given a name and a blessing by John Fox Warner Jr. in Spanish Fork, Utah.  We took our missionary friend from Kentucky to the Salt Lake Temple for a session today.  It was a special experience.  We also went to the North Visitor's Center and the Conference Center.  We went to Chuck-O-Rama for lunch and then went up Big Cottonwood Canyon to see the snow.  We took our friend to Purchase a few of the items he needs before he goes to the MTC tomorrow.  Then we went to the Jordan River Distribution to get him some garments.  We took pictures and then headed to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple and took pictures.  Then we went to Herriman High School to pick up our grandson after his drivers training class.  We took him home and then we went home.  We ordered pizza and had a late dinner.  Now we are watching The District--its our missionary's homework!  It's been a special day.

March 4

Today is busy!  I've run errands, went to the store, got some house work done, took my CPAP machine in for help, made blueberry muffins, went to the store again, and then watched some TV while I caught my breath.  This afternoon we will pick up a young man from Kentucky up at the airport.  He is going on a mission to Las Vegas and enters the MTC on Wednesday.  Tomorrow we are taking him to the Salt Lake Temple and a little sight seeing.  We might also go up Big Cottonwood Canyon so that he can see snow.  The house is in pretty good shape, so we should have a little stay-cation for ourselves.  Fun way to start March!

March 3

Today is the sixteenth birthday of our oldest grandson.  Wow!  Where did the time go?  He is now 6' 3" and is a real lady killer.  He can't wait to get his license--he text me that he is coming to see us as soon as he gets his license and wheels.  He's an excellent student and very polite.  I love my "little" man!
It is raining today, which is OK with me.  I'd rather have rain than snow.  I'm eager for Spring! We finished our Home Teaching and our Home Teachers came today.  My Visiting Teachers came Friday, so we have all of those visits done by the 3rd of March!  We are going Visiting Teaching on March 12th.  We are off to a good start this month!

March 1

Today I helped hubby with cars.  He had his snow tires taken off and then we took mine to have some hubcaps put on that Randy gave me for my new car.  We met two daughters for lunch at TGIF and it was so fun to visit and laugh.  We are having the Sister missionaries come tonight for dinner.  I made Taco soup and Chicken Noodle soup.  As I look at the March calendar, I noticed that we have lots of meals to cook.  It will be fun, challenging, and a "culinary" adventure.  I'm so glad we are finally in the month of March! That means Spring is just around the corner!

February 28

I am enjoying reminiscing 36 years ago today when our second daughter was born.  She is fun, loving, enthusiastic, cheerful, and a joy to our family.  Today I also went to brunch with dear friends, after I got my hair cut.  We always solve the problems of the world and laugh away our own troubles.  Tonight we are having our older Singles come for a social and games.   We have lots of finger treats to enjoy too.  There is a slight whisper of Spring, and this weekend we are suppose to reach 50 degrees.  Wahoo!  I'm ready for a little warmer weather!

February 27

No snow today!  I got some cleaning done and had an enjoyable day.  Made spaghetti and meatballs for lunch and then realized I had Salisbary steaks and baked potatoes left from last night.  That just gives us more choices for dinner!  I ran a few errands today--buy my new Josi Kilpack mystery and a new book on the Atonement by Tad Callister. Then I delivered our sewing club donations for the Linus Project.  I also put out the decorations for St. Patrick's day.  March is going to be a busy month!

February 26

  Loved the sunshine yesterday!  I got a few errands done and enjoyed the day.  We had an opportunity to go visit our daughter at work to give her an early birthday card--plus two other birthday cards and the Valentine cards and goodies for the little ones ( is age fifteen almost sixteen little?)  we also got our shipment of Girl Scout cookies--YUM!  Today I am moving a little slow, but accomplishing enough.  We did have a bit of snow today, and hubby won't let me go out driving because it would get salt on my new car.  He's promised to take me out when he gets home from work.  That's OK by me!  Enjoy the day!

February 25

I was awake by 4:30 am but I enjoyed just "sleeping in" until 7 am.  It was delightful to have some time to talk with hubby and enjoy the cozy warmth.  I made waffles and eggs for breakfast and then we both went our separate ways to run errands.  We were both home by 9:15 am--so let the day begin!

Naughty girl....

I can't believe that I haven't posted yet this month!  I have spent part of the month sick, but I guess I could still type.  I'm planning on doing a better job in the future!  I'm glad February is almost over, because it's been such a snowy month.  Bring on March!

January review

We have been keeping quite busy.  We were released fro  West Ridge Academy on January 13, 2013.  We were surprised, but recognize that it is time for a change.  The challenge is waiting to find out what we do next.  In the meantime we are cleaning, organizing, getting projects done, selling Girl Scout Cookies, preparing a Pinewood Derby car for a nephew, and getting "Honey Do" projects done.   I have started using a C-PAP machine and it has been difficult to get use to.  My doctor told me to start using Abien, and that has made the difference.  Last night I got a full eight hours sleep!. We had a family dinner and enjoyed the kids and grandkids.  My hubby had cataract surgery this week and is doing wonderfully.  I fell on our freezing rain when I went out to get the mail, but I seem to be doing OK. We had a Singles Dinner this week and only had a member of the Bishopric and his wife attend.  We need to figure out what is next for that calling.  We are thankful for the many blessings we enjoy.  We enjoy time with each other and time with friends.

Come on Down 2013

It is always a special time to start a New Year.  It is a time of reflection, hope for the future, resolutions, and a fresh start.  I basically have the same resolutions as last year, but life is a progressive thing.  Each year I can continue to work on my goals and build on my past progress.  I have done quite well the first week of the year!  I still have a long way to go, but step by step I will get there!
I hate taking down Christmas decorations and a number of years ago I realized that my Christmas decorations included a lot of snowmen.  I have increased my collection and now I have a delightful snowy winter feel.  That makes the change of decor a lot more fun!  We have had more snow this winter, and MUCH colder weather.
I have been so blessed this past year.  Last night our son brought our two-month old grandson to visit.  He was our biggest blessing in 2012!  It was fun to hold him and feed him.  I get withdrawal pains when I haven't seen him for awhile.  He's such a cutie!
The coming year brings hopes for camping, time with family, a trip to Maryland to see our two East Coast grandsons, sewing, and lots of surprises.  I'm glad the Mayans were wrong!

2012 in review

I thoroughly enjoyed our Christmas holiday!  Time with family was so special.  I enjoyed laughing, games, movies, and was so satisfied with the whole experience.  January 2012 brought sewing time and getting back to schedule.  We were released at Westridge 1st Branch and spent more time in our home Ward.  February brought doctor's appointments, more sewing, and some good family time.  March found us back at Westridge 1st Branch resuming our previous callings as Scoutmaster and Music director.  We also enjoyed my aunt's 80th birthday in Spanish Fork with lots of relatives.  We also began working with the Single Adults ages +31.  I enjoyed our Pic N Sew quilting group too.  April found us busy with weddings, baptisms, and family time.  May was full of doctor's, Scout O Rama, helping Sister missionaries, and a special bonus for Mothers' Day---Alan and Kari are expecting their first baby!   June brought camping at the Ward Campout, taking grandkids on a campout at the Spruces, and more doctors appointments.  The most fun was family time!  July brought more family time and games, Lois Stewart's funeral, lunch and dinner with our kids, and Judy Larson's funeral.  We enjoyed lots of activities with friends and family.  August started off with our yearly campout at the Spruces.  Always fun to visit with family for a week!  On August 24 I had a mini-stroke and began a long recovery.  Fortunately, my only problem was weakness and no energy.  In September I managed to get through a funeral, Stake picnic, the Bradford Reunion, Pic N Sew at my house, and some good family time.  October brought more doctor appointments, a home sleep test, going to the Scarecrow Festival at Westridge, and Time Out for Women, and baby showers for Hudson.  November brought the birth of Alan and Kari's son Hudson Noah Mills.  He weighed 5 lbs 9 oz. and was 19 inches long.  We enjoyed going to the hospital with two daughters and a grandson.  I also enjoyed some good news on my health--all tests came back normal.  Thanksgiving was delightful.  We had thirteen including two boys from the Academy.  Its been quite a year!  Although the nation and state faced many tragedies, we recognize SO many blessings in our life.  We are blessed with special family and wonderful friends that make our life one of joy.  Happy New Year!