FRY Desert Rats

I propose . . .

2010-07-04T15:48:00.003-06:00

I propose that we somehow get a good picture (snapshot variety) with the whole family when you guys are all out here next month and change the desert picture to a family picture. Just a thought. Let me know what you think!

Our Trip to North Carolina

2009-09-12T20:20:00.009-06:00

On September 4th at 0 dark thirty we got up and left for the airport for a flight at first dawn to fly to Atlanta and then to Fayetteville, North Carolina. Due to the fact that Erik and Mariel had our van we had our niece Noelle and her husband Kurt pick us up from the airport. Kurt is a Captain in the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Bragg which is right next to Fayetteville.
For the first few days we stayed on Fort Bragg with them and met their wonderful family. Alexandra (Alex), Sabrina, Mary, Emma, Peter and Lilly. I hope I spelled them all correct. They were wonderful to stay with and play with. We all had a great time. The two youngest started calling us grandpa and grandma which we totally enjoyed. They are such a great family.
Saturday the 5th of Sept. was the Reception for Erik and Mariel which was really nice. While we were there we met the guy that was going to be taking pictures at the reception and he was from Mt. Airy so we asked if he knew our neighbor that served in Mt. Airy as a missionary when he said that he did we got a hold of her and let them have a little phone call reunion. Later we found out that the photographer was Mariel's sister Hannah's boy friend David's dad. David was spending his last weekend before leaving on his mission so he and Hannah were funny to watch.
While we were at the reception Liesel got a text that her friend from Oregon that is also at Fort Bragg and expecting any time, sent Liesel a text saying I won't make it to see you I just had my baby. So Sunday Morning we got up and since were already on base went to the base hospital and got to see her and meet her husband and see their baby son.
Then we went to church with the Porter family and followed them to their place for dinner and gift opening. That was nice but since Erik, Mariel and Hannah had school on Labor Day they had to leave for Virginia and ended up getting a late start out. We followed them until we got to where we knew our way back to the base for us.
Monday we got all packed up and ready to go and said our good byes amid the two youngest telling us that we couldn't go. We then traveled to Kitty Hawk to see the Atlantic Ocean and to visit the Wright Brothers National Monument. When we got there it had stormed a bit but was mainly just cloudy so we went and played on the beach and in the ocean which was a lot of fun.
Because of the storm the water was very gray looking and pretty choppy but it was warm unlike Oregon where the water is always cold.
Tuesday morning we were planning on getting up and watching the sunrise over the ocean and playing in the ocean some more. When our Alarm went off I got up and looked out side to a wonderful downpour so we went back to bed and forgot spending more time at the beach.
So we headed off to the Wright Brothers National Monument which was way interesting but I chuckled to my self when they told us all the changes to the island that the government has made to preserve the site. It is good that it happened a long time ago because the environmental impact paper work would have been terrible. We really enjoyed learning about what they did and why on their quest for flight. What an exiting day it was.
When we left, we headed to Buena Vista, Virginia. As we got into Virginia I experienced my first ever toll road to drive on. It seems though that a slight course deviation and I could have possibly missed the one and only toll booth we saw. But it only cost $4.00 so what the heck.
The route took us through Norfolk, Va and as we were going we saw signs indicating a tunnel ahead. As flat as everything seemed I wondered why we would be going through a tunnel. Then we found out. As we were crossing the bridge over the Chesapeake Bay the road started dropping and soon we were under the bay. What a trip!
At Erik and Mariel's we got there just before Mariel had to go to a late class so we didn't get to spend much time with her. We did get the tour of campus and got to see a bit of the area and it is really nice. On Tuesday morning as we were waking up Mariel was headed out for her early class and so we had breakfast with Erik and then I took him to school and then we headed out for Andy Griffith's town of Mayberry. For anyone that doesn't know, It is the the town of Mt. Airy, NC which is just below the Virginia, North Carolina border. We didn't take time to check out the town of Mt. Pilot as talked about on the show but it it really Pilot Mountain a bit further South. This was a lot of fun to walk up and down both sides of Main St. and see things like Opie's Candy Store, Snappy Lunch and Floyd's Barber Shop. Then over to the house which is now owed by a motel and can be r if you have the urge to.

After lunch we headed off towards Tennessee. As we were traveling though I was starting to experience some gastro intestinal problems. By the time we reached Nashville it was getting late and and my problem had increased. So when we went to dinner after getting a hotel, I wasn't able to sit without abdominal pain so while the others ate I stayed out in the van. By Thursday morning I was feeling better and we headed West again. After lunch though I again started feeling the effects of the stomach problems from the night before but this time the effects were worse. As we were going through Oklahoma I got nauseous and had Yvonne stop at a stop area. I walked around a bit and finally lost my lunch. While we were there we saw our first fireflies. they were so cool just flying around and flashing on and off. We continued on but by the time we were about 2 hours out of Oklahoma City I was in such pain that I told Yvonne that if she saw a hospital sign take me to it. Then I told Liesel to take my computer and find a hospital in Oklahoma City so she could direct mom to it. This Liesel did with precision. They saw a hospital sign but it didn't point to the hospital she found so we followed her directions. When we got to the hospital the doors were locked and there was a phone on the wall with a sign saying to call for assistance. When we finally started talking to someone we found out that this was a psychiatric hospital and so the guy gave us directions to a medical hospital which we think is the one the sign pointed to. After about 4 hours, an X-ray and CATSCAN the ER doctor said that the "Immodium AD" was not my friend because it was most likely what was keeping my intestines from clearing them self of the irritation. So he put me on a liquid diet for the next 24 hours and they released me. We then found a motel to get at least a little bit of sleep. Then Friday morning we got up in time to have the continental breakfast then set out for home. The doctor had also said to take more breaks and walk around as we traveled so even though I thought we would stop in Elk City, Oklahoma for the Route 66 National Museum, Yvonne said no were stopping so you can walk around like the doctor said.

after that we pushed on through Texas and home. What a good time we all had.

the count down is on.

2009-08-28T03:54:00.002-06:00

In seven days and 3 hours Yvonne, Devin, Liesel and myself will be flying to North Carolina for Erik and Mariel's reception back there. The plan now is to go see and stay with our niece Noelle and her family for a couple of days and then to go see a few sights. Nothing to exciting. Kitty Hawk, DC, SVU, Mayberry, and the Route 66 Museum. That's if all goes well. I am just sad that we are doing this all on the fly as I don't have a lot of time left to take off of work. (yes I used that four letter word)

Ezra & Vilda Family Trivia Answers

2009-08-16T22:47:00.000-06:00

(I apologize right away for any misspellings I may have)

List all children of Erza and Vilda in order: 5 points for each correct answer. Double the number of points if you can list middle names.
Oldest __Ivan Dustin __________________
________Thekla______________________
________Herbert Louis ________________
________Everett Alton ________________
________Bernice_____________________
________David Nephi_________________
________Loyal Ezra___________________
Youngest __Marlin Edward_____________

Who was the first to marry? Bernice

Who is the oldest grandchild? Nola Jean (goes by Jean)

While in Montpelier, Idaho, Grandpa Kunz did ___shoe and harness repair___work for a short time. Uncle ____Herb___________remembers handing him tacks as he nailed new soles on shoes.

On the train trip to Nevada, Uncle ___Herb______ lost his first tooth. Uncle ____Ivan_______ pulled it for him. In the future Uncle ____Herb_______ pulled his own teeth.

One day Grandma Kunz had put the baby (not sure which one) outside in the fresh air for a while to sleep. Uncle ___Ivan_________ was out playing. When Grandma returned to check on the baby she found that all the wheels had been removed and the baby was still sleeping soundly. (At the reunion the cousins joked that Uncle Nick probably taught him how)

One day when the boys were cutting hay a long ways from home, Uncle ___Herb_______and Uncle ______Everett________ were left to water the horses. As this was in the days when water was pumped by hand it was quite a chore to water 6 horses. Uncle ____Herb__________ started and when he got tired turned the pump handle over to Uncle ___Everett______ who pumped 4 or 5 times and then claimed to be tired. Uncle ____Herb________ resumed the duty and his brother started laughing because he had got out of the job so easily. When the hard worker took after the slacker, he fell backwards and cut his head. Grandpa had to take him to the doctor for stitches so Uncle ___Herb______ was in trouble.

Another horse story involves Uncle ___Ivan_____ and Uncle ___Herb_______. They decided to ride back instead of herding horses. Having no bridle, they used a piece of string from one of the boys pocket. The horses took off running and when Uncle ___Ivan______ pulled on the cord it broke. Both boys landed on the ground and never did tell what happened to cause the injury. No permanent harm done to either.

When the family was running a dairy, Grandpa hired a neighbor to help one day. The man used Grandpa’s boots and when he was finished for the day he washed them off and left them behind the door between two rooms in the spring house. When Uncle ____Everett____ and Uncle ___Herb_______ went out to get water for the house they saw the toes of the boots under the door. Uncle ____Herb______ spooked his brother by telling him that there was someone there. Uncle ___Everett_____ became hysterical and bolted for the house. It took some convincing to get him to settle down and see that they were just empty boots.

Uncle ___Everett___ was always afraid to get in a swimming pool or any other water. Many years later he told Aunt __Nellie______ why. It seems that his brothers had talked him in to jumping in the canal by promising that they would rescue him if he had trouble. When he started to flounder they just laughed and he almost drowned.

One summer after Uncle ___Larry_____ came home from his mission he worked in the beet fields thinning beets. Uncle ___Eddie___ worked him really hard that year. (Uncle Eddie claimed that he got on Uncle Larry’s back and rode him like a horse)

Everything was watered with canal water. One evening when Uncle ___Ivan_______ went to turn the irrigation water into the ditch he met a skunk on the way home. He batted the skunk over the head with his shovel and killed it. It fell into the irrigation water, perfume and all. The water had been set to go on the garden along the house. It took some time for the odor to leave the garden.

Grandpa contracted with Great Lakes Timber Company to do some logging work for a few summers. Uncle __Herb________ and Uncle ___Everett____ were enlisted to help with the work. Uncle ___Loyal____ and Uncle ____Eddie______ were too young to help with the work but spent the summer living in a tent. They thought it was terrible to have to leave and return to school.

When some of the siblings were newly married some wanted to build homes. Uncle __Larry____ and Aunt ____Bernice_____, Uncle _____Everett___ and Aunt ____Nellie___, and Uncle ____Herb______ went together to buy a cement mixer to pour foundations.

Uncle ___Ivan_____was a great fixer. If something required energy and motion to make it work he put a motor on it. He required Cousin ____Jeanette__ to learn to change a tire and drive a stick shift truck before getting a drivers license. When he and Cousin __Richard______ made a trip to the Unitahs to get fire wood the distributor cap came off and the rotor was lost. Cousin ___Richard_____ was sent to hitch hike down and call Uncle ____Eddie________ for help. While he was waiting, Uncle _____Ivan______ found some copper wire and a piece of wood and made a rotor with them. Just a bit more time and he would have been back on the road with no help needed. He was popular at girls camp as he made stools, wash-stands, latrines and other things for them.

When Aunt ___Wilma_____ was in the RS presidency she assigned Cousin __Richard_____ to bake bread for a bake sale. He was to make 2 batches, one for church and one for the family. The first batch sold so quickly that Cousin ___Richard_____ baked bread all day and each loaf was sold still hot as it came to the sale.

Uncle ____Everett_______ was called “Plain old Grandpa”

Uncle _____Earl_________ was called Johnny

Aunt ______Thekla________ did a lot of hemstitching

Uncle ____Larry_________caught a mouse and gave it to Cousin ______Jean_________ to take to Aunt ____Bernice________. She carried it by the tail.

Uncle ___Loyal_________ and Uncle ____Eddie_________ ran a body shop and used car lot together.

Uncle ___Herb__________ was the first in the family to fly in an airplane.

Aunt _____Thekla_______ was born in Bern and had to leave behind the organ she was learning to play when the family left Wabuska.

Not many days left!

2009-07-19T01:32:00.002-06:00

Well here we are, it's the middle of July and in just twelve days Erik and Mariel will be getting married in the Manti, Utah Temple. That means that in 7 days, we will be making final preparations to leave for Utah. Which means I will be very busy during the next 7 days getting 2 vehicles ready for the trip and working my weird shift. In the middle of it, My tool manager wants me to attend a meeting at my bed time on my transition day. So I just declined and told my supervisor that I had declined. He agreed with my declining and so we will see what happens next.

It somehow doesn't seem real to me that I will soon have 2/3rds of my children married. I am not in anyway complaining it just is having a hard time setting into this thick skull of mine.

Memorial Day

2009-06-05T21:49:00.006-06:00

I just wanted all of you who could not make it to the cemetary for Memorial day to know that our loved ones are loved, cherished, and remembered on this special day!Grandpa and Grandma Kunz

Here is my visual reminder of where their grave is since it took both
Brian and I time to locate it.lol

Grandpa and Grandma Holdaway

Marilee

Ivan and Mary Ann

Carl and LeAnne

Paul

David

James

Mark

Gone for now, but definately not forgotten!

Thank you Cheryl for letting me pick your iris to make my own contribution.

Learning from Our Prophet's

2009-06-04T13:48:00.002-06:00

After I got home from work last night Kent was watching TV that was uninteresting to me so I got on facebook. As I checked my inbox there was a message from some group I had joined about spiritual messages. Usually I ignore what they send because it's something someone read that may be interesting, but I don't feel like taking the time. What I read made me realize where I have need for improvement. After being in New Mexico last month and hearing about Cheryl's trip I thought that perhaps some of you have need to reflect on you choices as well.

Here is the quote from Elder Bednar. "Sadly, some young men and women in the Church today ignore “things as they really are” and neglect eternal relationships for digital distractions, diversions, and detours that have no lasting value. My heart aches when a young couple—sealed together in the house of the Lord for time and for all eternity by the power of the holy priesthood—experiences marital difficulties because of the addicting effect of excessive video gaming or online socializing. A young man or woman may waste countless hours, postpone or forfeit vocational or academic achievement, and ultimately sacrifice cherished human relationships because of mind- and spirit-numbing video and online games. As the Lord declared, “Wherefore, I give unto them a commandment … : Thou shalt not idle away thy time, neither shalt thou bury thy talent that it may not be known” (D&C 60:13).
You may now be asking yourself, “But Brother Bednar, you began today by talking about the importance of a physical body in our eternal progression. Are you suggesting that video gaming and various types of computer-mediated communication can play a role in minimizing the importance of our physical bodies?” That is precisely what I am declaring." http://www.lds.org/library/display/0,4945,538-1-4830-1,00.htm

I don't share this as a way to chide anyone because as I said it caused me to reflect and feel like I need to be better, but I just wanted to share with you a way that we may be allowing Satan to overtake our valuable time. Time we have been given to do the things the Lord would have us do. Let's not waste that valuable gift the Lord has given us. Let's not waste our time on this earth! I love you all!

Marriage Official

2009-04-09T09:39:00.000-06:00

So hey guys... Just was thinking about it and forgot to put on here the details of when and where Mariel and I are getting married.

Last week, if I remember right it was last thursday, Mariel and I called the temple to schedule the most wonderful thing we will do in our lives. So here are the details

On July 31st of 2009 Mariel and I will be wed for time and all eternity in the Manti, Utah temple.

The sealing is scheduled to be at 10:30 am. Mariel and I need to be there at 9:30 am and all of our invited guests will need to be there at 10:00 am.

We have a list of those who we want coming and we are getting close to the limit of 50 people in the sealing room that we have reserved.

Just wanted to keep y'all informed.

Erik

Ready?

2009-04-01T11:55:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to make sure your getting ready for my homecomeing in 6 weeks. This Mission went by way too fast but I know that It's my time to go home.

The Newest Addition to the Family

2009-03-22T12:47:00.007-06:00

This font is Erik talking
This font is Mariel talking

So as y'all know last night I asked my amazing Mariel to marry me.

Wanna know how he did it?

So Friday the 13th (I know weird huh), Mariel and I were at the Mall looking at outfits for her birthday suit and also glancing around at rings at different places. Then on Saturday, the 14th I went with Hannah and Bridgette, Mariel's sisters, to a baptism for one of Bridgette's friends and afterward I went to JCPenny to get a ring for Mariel.

well the reason that Erik went to the baptism with my sisters is because on our birthdays our parents take us out for breakfast. So that's where I was. at golden corral....eating gooooooood stuff. :)

So I bought the ring. Then we went back to the house and I immediately hid the ring in my stuff. We came home and this whole entire week I have been getting more and more nervous and wanting to give it to her everyday. But each day I told myself to wait for what I had planned.

Friday was Mariel's birthday and we had a lot of fun. David, Hannah's boyfriend, and I prepared a dinner for Mariel and Hannah for Mariel's birthday. It was fun we had a Luau themed dinner and we had a Philippine dish called chicken adobo and it was really good. We also had a rehearsal for the choir concert that was on Saturday.

Saturday, we had a good time. We just hung out and then we went to the choir concert. After the choir concert I took Mariel out and we got Applebee's to go and went up to the Parkway. It is a road that leads to an overlook of the town of Buena Vista which is really amazing and to add more to it, it was a beautiful clear night and there was a meteor shower. On the way to the parkway I stuck in a CD that Hannah had made for me and Mariel asked me what the title of the CD and I told her that I wasn't sure yet.

Before we got up to the parkway I had a married couple friend of ours go up before us and set up a blanket and candles. When we got up to the parkway I told Mariel that I had the name for the CD. I then told you that the CD is entitled "Eternal Lover." Then I said "That is cause I want you to be my Eternal Lover" and then pulled out the ring. And asked her "Will you be my eternal lover?"

We had dinner then we called Mariel's family, y'all and some friends from School. So that is what happened. There are other pictures that Hannah took last night. That I will add to another blog either later tonight or tomorrow.

Pictures

2009-03-18T11:54:00.002-06:00

Draper Temple

2009-03-04T09:31:00.002-07:00

Monday, March 2, we were able to attend the open house for the Draper Temple. It was awesome to be there. As I entered the temple I felt the spirit. Then as we got to the Celestial Room and the Sealing Room I felt the warm tingling again. It was great to be able go to the open house and have Liesel be with Dad and I. It helped her to realize the beauty of the temple and I think helped her recommit to wanting to be married in the temple.

Brianna's Baptism

2009-03-04T09:09:00.002-07:00

Brianna was baptized on Saturday morning, February 28. It was a really nice baptismal service. The stake planned the baptism. They break the stake into groups and the group that Brianna was in there were 2 girls. I really liked the talk on the Holy Ghost. The sister that gave the talk had a helium filled balloon. She talked about the things we should do to have the Holy Ghost with us and put a key on the string of the balloon for each thing. By the time she had talked about the different keys the balloon stayed by her side and she told the girls that if they will do the things she talked about the Holy Ghost will be their companion. I really liked it because she helped them to understand what they need to do.

Brian told me that at the "8 is Great" the week before, the bishop was telling about the interview he has with the kids and he said that he told the kids he puts them on a chair that is high, asks them hard questions and really grills them. He said to Brianna isn't that right, and she responded that he was right. During the confirmation he told a little about it and said that she is witty. I laughed about it.

It was wonderful to be about to Brianna's baptism. I want her to know how proud I am of her for deciding to be baptized. She is a great girl and I look for her to many great things in her life.

Young Ambassadors

2009-02-24T21:49:00.009-07:00

Wow, what a weekend!!!! The Young Ambassadors came to Rio Rancho. Several weeks ago I signed up to be a host family. We finally found that we had been chosen to host. When I signed up I thought that it was Friday through Sunday, and with Dad working Friday night I figured it would be best to have girls stay, but it was only Saturday and Sunday. We got 2 tickets to the performance for being a host family. As we went to the performance Saturday night Liesel told Cindy Hargett (she was one of those in charge on the stake level) that she wished that we had boys. The show was great!!!!! After the show, as they were making the assignments Liesel found that we were going to get boys. Liesel was, how do you spell it, E X C I T E D! ! ! ! ! ! !

We got home with our boys, Carson Twitchell and John McKenna. They were just like my boys, because as I asked them if they wanted something to eat and when I told them that I had home-made bread, they said Home-made bread that would be great. John had 2 slices and Carson had 3. Do you think they were HUNGRY or what?

We went to church and there were 5 other family that were hosting from our ward. (Kears, Nixons, Sis Heaps, Millers, and the Nutts.) All the others had girls. After church we came home and inhaled dinner and then took off for the fireside, we were only home for an hour. It too was awesome. The spirit was really strong. We got home and played Mexican Train.

Monday morning we got up and took the boys to catch their bus. Liesel has been going through withdrawl since. She really had lots of fun with the guys. They are handsome and have great personalities. We laughed with them and had lots of fun.

Liesel just said, "They are my boys." Do you think she likes them?????????????

Spanish Grade!!! 2

2009-01-30T23:50:00.002-07:00

So when you look at the post just below this you need to make sure you look at the actual percentage grade! That is what ties everything together

Spanish Grade!!!

2009-01-30T11:57:00.002-07:00

So yeah so remember how I totally failed my Spanish 2 class last spring semester. Well this semester I had a meeting with my Spanish teacher. This was for a mandatory meeting that we are having once a month. During this meeting she looked at my grade and she said "What happened to your grade?" At that moment I immediately thought "WAIT...WHAT...I've turned in all my homework. What do you mean what happened to my grade?" So I looked at my grade and the attached picture is what i saw!

would you believe!

2009-01-30T04:16:00.002-07:00

Here it is January 30th and I haven't put anything on the blog since the 1st. This week Devin informed us that his release date is May 12. That is a mere 3.5 months, or 15.57 weeks. Where oh where has the time gone?
We are all proud as punch of Michaela's reflections project and the honors she has won from it.
We are excited to be just 4 weeks away from coming to Utah for Brianna's Baptism.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T03:09:00.002-07:00

Happy New Year to everyone. This new year is one which I really am having mixed feelings about. With the economy the way it is and the changes in the government leadership, I am extreamly not looking forward to the year that is placed before us. Of course I wasn't overly excited at any of the options that the elections offered this last year. Though I don't sound to optomistic I do want you to know that though I am looking for the worst, I am hoping for the best. There fore I do wish you a very Happy New Year.

Rich

2008-12-23T02:49:00.010-07:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Well another year has slipped away and the Kunz’ are still in the Land of Enchantment. Rich is still working at Intel on the crazy 12 hour shifts that keep him out of phase with most others. He is still serving in the High Priest Group Leadership. He has been attempting to become an author (but don’t hold your breath till he succeeds).
Yvonne has begun working this fall; she is tending twins that are about a year old, Braxton and Brinkley. She is now the Primary President and stays plenty busy. But still finds time to do the things that the family enjoys, like making bread and other goodies.
Erik is still at Southern Virginia University and enjoying it especially since he gets to play basketball and see Mariel. It sounds as if he is getting pretty serious about her but yet Mom and Dad have to hear everything through the grapevine. Therefore we don’t know for certain what his exact plans are. He is enjoying himself though, of that we are certain.
Devin is still serving in the California San Bernardino Mission, where he is in his 6th area and has been out for over 18 months and enjoying serving.
Liesel is working hard to finish the classes that are necessary to finish up high school and move on with her life. She is teaching primary where she is a team teacher and is doing an excellent job especially with a boy that is autistic. She still enjoys babysitting especially if it is for two or three families in the ward.
Basically we are all in good health and have had a wonderful year. Mariel came to visit in August and so we took a trip to Bandelier National Monument then traveled to Utah as well. On our trip to Bandelier we had a few sprinkles as we toured the ancient pueblo people’s homes that they built in and around the walls of the canyon. Then as we got ready to return to the car it started to pour. So by the time we reached the parking lot we were all soaked to the skin for the ride home.
While in Utah we got to spend time with all the family except Devin of course. Included in the trip was a trip to the Conference Center and then to Crossroads Mall and the kids got to play in the fountain their.
Cheryl and Erik are very busy with their Get A Grip business and Michaela and Levi are getting way tall. Kylie is such a little ham and Aaron is getting so big. Cheryl is expecting in March and the Ultra-sound people say it is a girl. Of course I personally don’t totally believe them as they said that Kylie was a boy.

In October, we were privileged to have Marlies, Kent and Braxton come for a visit and go to the Balloon Fiesta with us where we got to see the Darth Vader balloon and get pictures with the storm troopers that are part of the balloon crew. Then to Bandelier again then out near Grants to a volcano cone and below it in one of the collapsed lava tube is an ice cave, which has ice in it year round. Next we did a bit of balloon chasing as well, with the balloons landing near where we live we didn’t have to travel very far to see some as they came down and landed or changed passengers.
Then at Thanksgiving Brian, Shanalea, Brianna, Ashlyn and Austin came for the holiday and we took them to the Petroglyphs. This was especially exciting to Brianna, as she has been studying about them. Then getting to build a ginger bread house with them was a blast.
In conclusion we would like to wish you the very best this Christmas and for the coming year. Know that we love each of you and the part you have played in our lives.

The Kunz Clan – Rich, Yvonne, Erik, Devin and Liesel + our married kids and their families.

P.S. Incase you don't have an idea of what it is like here in New Mexico, Liesel took this picture of a coyote while standing on our front porch.

Thank Goodness Michelle Won!!!

2008-12-17T00:04:00.002-07:00

I just found the stats for the biggest loser tonight and WOW. I am so glad that America chose to vote the way that I did. In voting in Ed over Heba we were able to give Michelle the win that we wanted her to have. Had we voted for Heba she would have been the biggest loser.

Michelle's total percentage of weight loss= 45.45%
with having lost 110 lbs.

Heba's total percentage of weight loss= 46.94%
with having lost 138 lbs.

Congrats to all the contestants. You can really tell all the hard work they have put in!

Joy in the Morning

2008-12-07T13:04:00.003-07:00

(As a little side note, I meant to publish this on my blog, but after I posted it I realized it was here. I decided that maybe it needed to stay here for someone who might read this blog but not mine.)

I was having a hard night earlier this week and wanted to just sit on the computer and waste time. Really, I would've just been lettting life pass me by. I realized that that wasn't going to help me feel better, so instead I left the computer alone and I cleaned up the living area of our home. I turned on the most recent session of General Conference that I have on my Ipod (from back in April) and listened as I cleaned. I really enjoyed that. I truly felt better than I had before and my worries gave way to the peace of the Lord. At some point that night I read or heard Psalm 30:5. It says, " . . . weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." Those few words gave me increased hope and the ability to tell myself that whatever happened we could make it through and I could have joy in the morning. That definitely made it possible to awake in the morning and have an optimistic outlook on the day and feel the love of a kind and gracious Father in Heaven and His Son Jesus Christ. I'm grateful to be able to learn more about them each day. When life starts to get you down, don't forget to give your burdens to He who has already carried them and let His Spirit lift you and sustain you!

Thanksgiving with Brian, Shanalea and their kids

2008-12-02T21:27:00.005-07:00

We had a great time with Brian and Shanalea and their family. They arrived Tuesday night. Wednesday Brianna and Ashlyn wanted to go to the library to get some books so they could read while they were here. Dad and Liesel took Brian and Shanalea and the girls and found the books they wanted. Austin was asleep and as I was making rolls I stayed home with him. After he woke up we went to the Petroglyphs. Brianna has been learning about them at school and was excited to see them. It was fun to see her excitement seeing them and having her tell us what they were. After we got home from the Petroglyphs I made the pies. Brianna and Ashlyn helped me bake most of the day and seemed to enjoy helping. It was fun to have them help.

Thursday morning the ward Turkey Bowl was held at the park across the street from us. Dad, Brian and Liesel went over to play. Austin and Brianna went to watch. After I put the turkey in Ashlyn and I went over, because it was raining the kids didn't want to stay very long and we came home. Dad said there were close to 35 there playing football. They decided to divide and have 2 games going. As I was watching them play it seemed like there were so many that it was congested.

We put the gingerbread house together Thursday evening and then on Friday we decorated it. It was so much fun to watch the kids put the candies on. Austin was funny to watch as he put the gum drops on. We finally turned the house around and he put them on the other side. He put them where he could reach.

Brian wanted to take us to lunch. We went to Olive Garden about 1:00. We figured that by going then the rush would be over but we still had to wait about half-an-hour. When we got home we decided to make cookies. All of the kids helped make them. Austin took his turn helping add the ingredients. We had fun making and eating the cookies.

Saturday morning Brian, Shanalea and the kids left for home. It was great to have them here to spend some time with us. We really enjoyed them.

A Rare Heavenly Sight

2008-12-01T20:17:00.001-07:00

I texted each of the kids and told them to look at the moon tonight and they were wondering why. So here is a picture of why and Just an FYI, it won't happen again until Nov. 18, 2052!

The new Thanksgiving tradition

2008-12-01T20:10:00.002-07:00

It seems that there is a new tradition for when the Grandkids come to Grandpa and Grandma's for Thanksgiving. Its called build a ginger bread house here are Brianna, Ashlyn and Austin with the one that they did. We had a great time doing it and the kids were all cute as can be as they decorated it. Austin even got into it and put most of the gum drops on and so they are clustered around where he could reach.

Gratitude

2008-11-30T20:58:00.004-07:00

As I have dealt with other people recently and also after having an increased understanding of the workings of the Spirit as I have watched Erik serve in the church, I have a greater appreciation and gratitude for our parents. We all know our family isn't perfect, but there are some things that we do really well.

I am grateful to have been taught to deal with others with love. Obviously it is sometimes hardest to treat your family with love because we know them best and sometimes our expectations of them are higher than they might like them to be. I have seen others desire to force change upon others with threats and also with anger, but I am so grateful that my first instinct is to try to see another's point of view and not judge them for it, but love them regardless. I know that that is the way the Savior would be and is.

I am also grateful to have a testimony rooted deep in my heart. I think that is one heritage that we have that is absolutely priceless. Our parents taught us by example to get a testimony and keep it strong. As the whirlwinds of Satan rage there is no better gift they could've given us. When Michaela told her grandma that not going to church wasn't an option because then "you don't get blessings and blessings are way more important than presents" my heart filled with joy! All those Sundays that I took the kids to church while Erik was travelling (and struggled to do so) had paid off. That wouldn't have happened if my testimony wasn't firm. I have always known that going to church and doing what was right was the way to find happiness. I'm thankful that I grew up in a home where those lessons were taught.

So I thank you all for teaching me the lessons that I have learned from you, especially Dad and Mom. Thank you for helping me to become the person that I am. I love you all!

Baptism

2008-11-12T07:21:00.003-07:00

Saturday, I was able to attend the baptism of Rachel Hopkins. Teresa Walker was going to go but because she has been sick lately, I told her that I would go for her. It was a wonderful baptism. I felt the spirit very strong, especially as we went as a ward for the confirmation. We had the confirmation and then as we were singing the closing song, "I Know My Father Lives", I tears came to my eyes and I had a hard time singing. It was a spiritual feeling for me.

As I was talking to Heather, her mom, Sunday. She told me that they had changed to that song because when her older son was baptized they sang it. Her dad had recently died and they felt his spirit while singing the song. She wanted to sing it in rememberence of her dad again. I told her the feelings I had had and she said it was because her dad was there. I am not sure that is why I felt the spirit so strongly but it was still a cool experience.

I, too, can say after this experience that I know my Father lives and He loves me too.

Family Home Evening

2008-11-11T10:39:00.003-07:00

A week ago as we were coming home from church Dad out of the blue suggested that we have Family Home Evening including dinner with the Matt Kear family and the Doug Dobbs family. We asked them and they were in favor of the idea. Last night we met. We fixed Chicken Noodle Soup (that Liesel made) and Cowboy Stew along with a fruited Jello and Corn Bread. After we ate we had a short FHE lesson that Dad gave, which was excellent. He used a dowel (it was actually pvc pipe) and taught the importance of each member of the family. He tied some strings to the dowel and had names on the strings. (Mom, Dad, Son, Daughter, Grandpa, Grandma, etc.) He asked the kids who they thought was the most important person in the family and then they tried to see if they could get the dowel to stand up. Of course, it wouldn't. He asked another person and added another member of the family. He continued until the dowel finally stood up. It took about 6 until it stood up. Then he bore his testimony of the importance of family.

It isn't FHE without games so we played Boolah, Boolah. Where you hide something while a member is out. We hid a spool of thread. They then come back in and by singing loud when they are close to the item or soft when they are far away they finally locate the item. We laughed as the kids hid the thread. The adults finally took a turn and it was lots of fun.

One particularly funny thing happened. Dad had gotten into the pantry to get some marshmellows for the marshmellow gun. Liesel had been shooting them at the kids. Then we continued playing. When it was Liesel's turn she was sent to the kitchen area and noticed the door to the pantry open. She opened the door so she could look in and found Mason Kear, who is just over 2 and reminds me of Braxton, and he had found the bag of marshmellows and was standing on the food storage containers and was eating marshmellows to his hearts content. It was a hoot because he had found some candy once when they were visiting previously.

It was a fun, fun night and one that we are thinking we are going to continue to get to know members of our ward better.

Baby belly - 23 weeks

2008-11-07T19:52:00.001-07:00

I have never been one to get excited about pictures of me pregnant. I think the only pics I have of my belly are when I was about to "pop" with Michaela. As I recall, they were taken under protest!!! So I decided that this time I would graciously take the pictures and enjoy it!

2008-11-06T21:14:00.000-07:00

Check out my blog for a happy birthday post on Erik!
http://robison-kunzfam.blogspot.com/2008/11/gratitude.html

Halloween 08

2008-11-02T17:13:00.004-07:00

Mom begged me to post the pictures of my kids dressed up for Halloween. Now it is against my better judgment to actually contribute to a blog. But I would hate to see my mother grovel.

35 yrs still going strong

2008-10-29T22:04:00.001-06:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

October Family party

2008-10-26T22:58:00.004-06:00

We have been enjoying getting together once a month and laughing and playing together. The evidence is above. If you missed it, then go back up and check it out!

Primary Sacrament Meeting

2008-10-26T14:33:00.002-06:00

Today was our Primary Sacrament Meeting Program. It was wonderful. I was impressed as the kids sang. I got goose bumps and that tingly feeling that goes up and down the spine while the kids were singing. As they sang "I Am a Child of God" I got tears in my eyes and I had to stop singing for a few minutes because I couldn't sing. The kids were wonderful. During sharing time we watched the movie "Johnny Lingo". I got teary eyes again during the movie. (I guess it was my day for tears.) We gave the kids a choice of fruit snacks or crackers. It was a great day and one that I am glad is over for this year. It was a great program though.

Balloon Fiesta with Kent, Marlies and Braxton

2008-10-08T09:15:00.005-06:00

This has been a fun weekend. Marlies and Kent came down and spent some time with us. They arrived Friday night. Saturday morning we went down on the Park and Ride and went to the Mass Ascension. There were lots of people there but it was great to be among the balloons and watch them lift off. We got to watch the Darth Vader Balloon and then got pictures with the Storm Troopers and other Star Wars figures that were there. Braxton was afraid of the Sand person that was there. He just about bolted out of Marlies' arms. We saw lots of other balloons but that one was probably the highlight. We saw the Eagle, it didn't lift off; the bees, holding hands as they lifted off; and several others. There was a Nemo balloon, a dinosaur, a stein mug, and many colorful balloons. We came home and ate and then started to watch conference and then eventually fell asleep as we had been up since 5:00.

Cheryl had called while we were on the way home to let us know they announced a temple in Rome, Italy. That is so exciting and I am sure that Ivan would and is ecstatic about the thought of a temple in Italy. I got a warm tingly feeling that went up and down my back as she told me about it and wondered what I thought Ivan's response would be.

Saturday night it rained and was cool. The balloons didn't go up on Sunday beause of the storm and Monday because the winds were uncertain. I am glad that we went on Saturday, it was a beautiful day for ballooning.

Sunday morning we went up to see Julie, Scott and their boys. We had lunch with them and then went to Bandalier. We enjoyed seeing the ruins of Bandelier. It was fun to see Julie and her family. It is great to be able to see them and enjoy them. We came home the alternate way, by Highway 4. It was a beautiful drive. We saw a group of deer, probably 5-6, and one of them had antlers. As we traveled a car ahead of us was stopped and pointing. We looked and couldn't see anything of interest and then Liesel saw a wolf. We then had to back-up and see the wolf. It was interesting.

Monday we went to Ice Cave - Volcano Land. It is the site of a volcano and that erupted around 10,000 years ago. The ice cave was formed from the volcano. It was interesting. As we went into the ice cave we felt the temperature drop as we went into the cave. Before going to the cave we stopped at one of the casinos and had lunch. They had a lunch special of 2 Prime Rib dinners for $11.99, we had to get a players card to get that price but it was free so it was no big deal. Kent, Dad and I all had to get one.

Tuesday we got up and went and chasing balloons. We saw several that were landing here in the Northern Meadows area. We had figured on going to Rivers Edge but actually didn't find many when we got there after being here in Northern Meadows for a while. It was fun to watch them come down. I really think the balloons are fun to watch. We then went to Old Towne to do some shopping. It is a tourist area, it is an interesting place to find souvenirs.

It was good to have Braxton here and get to know him better. As they got here he clung to Kent and didn't want much to do with us, but by the time they left this morning he was giving hugs and kisses. He is such a cute boy. We have such cute grandkids. I told Dad last night that we have the cutest grandkids of all.

When I get pictures downloaded I will add them to the blog.

Ok so I feel like a complete Slacker/ What is up with Erik!!!

2008-10-06T11:16:00.003-06:00

Well I totally feel like a slacker! This is definitely the first time in a while that i am getting on the Family blog. I looked and holy cow there has been a lot of additions to the blog. Well since i haven't been on for a while i should let you all know what is happening in my life.

So... First off School is going good. I am passing all my classes but barely passing biology but i am bringing that grade up. Basketball is going good. Last week was try outs to see what team the coach is going to put you on and how i feel is I am going to be on varsity. The paper isn't posted yet on the teams but i will let y'all know when i find out what team i am on.

Secondly... If you all couldn't have guess i really like mariel and i am thinking she is the person i need to spend eternity with. This weekend we went down to Fayetteville and while there we went out shopping with her mom for a homecoming dress for mariel and her little sister hannah and while there Mariel and I just looked at some rings and found one we both liked.

So I really wanna know what y'all think!!

Love y'all lots

P.S. Here is the Ring
It is in White Gold not the Yellow Gold

My latest endevor

2008-09-27T00:25:00.002-06:00

For years now I have been toying with trying to write a book. Right Wrong or otherwise, I have actually completed one and put it on a controlled blog page that can be linked with the title of this blog.
As for the rest of things going on, we are excited to have Marlies, Kent and Braxton here in less than a week. Then to see all the hot air balloons at the balloon festival. and to have General Conference. So many things so little time.

My great husband's birthday

2008-09-03T09:23:00.002-06:00

Monday, September 1st, was my great husband's birthday. We had a great time celebrating his day. He wanted to go see 'Journey to the Center of the Earth'. It is in 3-D which makes it all the better. Watching it you feel like the fish is going to hit you in the face, the danelions are close enough that you can catch them, (the kids in front of us were trying to) and the birds are flying right past you. It is really a great movie. We wandered the mall and checked out a GPS, Dad is somewhat interested it but I don't know how much. He didn't find what he wanted and so decided he needs to do more looking and investigating. In the evening Liesel and I took him to dinner at Tony Romas. Dad and Liesel had ribs and I had salmon. They brought us the brownie dessert because of it being Dad's birthday and we shared it. It was delicious. We ate lots. We were going to go see 'Hancock' at the dollar movie but dinner took a little to long which turned out okay because Dad got to talk to Dean and Jeanette. We had a great time being together.

He is a great man and does much to help our family. Yesterday Jen Rowan called and wanted to borrow the truck to take some things to the dump. Instead of just letting her take the truck we helped her pull some weeds and get things cleaned up around her yard. That is the kind of person he is. He is willing to help others. That is one of his great traits. He had told his boss that he was going to come in to do some training because he thought that I was going to be working yesterday and he ended up going in last night because he had made that committment. Another of his traits. Last night he went to help the youth do baptisms at the temple. He had volunteered to go help. He loves to be in the temple helping with the baptisms. I love him and I know he loves me. For that I am grateful. I hope that we will have many more years together. Love ya my sweetheart.

Happy Birthday Dad!!!

2008-09-01T21:34:00.002-06:00

Guess who has been around for a year or two? Yep, Grandpa Kunz has. Here's a man who has worked very hard for years to support a large family and while he had that occasional work complaint never made it sound like he didn't love taking care of his family. Growing up I always knew that my dad knew everything especially how to fix things. He knows so much that broken objects fear him. If you tell him something is broken it only takes him looking at it to get it working again. As a daughter he always helped me to know of my worth and it was hard to grow up and realize that I didn't have to have daddy's approval anymore to do things. I just always valued his opinion. I couldn't ask for a better dad and I know that his grandkids love him just as much. Just as I asked with mom's birthday post I'd like to give everyone the opportunity to share their thought and feelings about what a wonderful man they have found in my dad. Happy birthday dad!!!

Our Utah trip

2008-08-13T11:36:00.002-06:00

What a good time we had on our trip to Utah. It was sooooo good to see all of the family, kids and grandkids, as we haven't seen them since the first part of December. It seems that each of the grandkids have grown so much.

Erik's girlfriend arrived Wednesday night. She was with us as Erik wanted her to be able to meet all of the family.

We left here and because Spanish Fork Canyon was closed, we went on I-70, since we were so close we went and saw Dean and Connie. It was good to see them as well. We found out that Dustin has received his mission call and is going to the Tacoma, Washington Mission. We spent the night with Cheryl and her family. Even though it was late when we arrived, the kids were all up to greet us.

Friday night we spent with the family having a BBQ and enjoying being together. After our party we spent the night with Brian and his family.

Brianna had asked us to bring our swimming suits as she and Ashlyn wanted us to go swim with them so they could show us the things they have been learning this summer. Brian had invited the family to go swimming on Saturday. Cheryl and her family came but as Marlies had to work her family had to decline. We had a good time playing in the water and watching the kids swim. Dad and I went down the water slide and really enjoyed it. I was surprised when Brian and Brianna went down and then Brianna went by herself.

Saturday evening Cheryl and her family went with Marlies to the Midvale City Harvest Days. Ryan Shupe and the Rubber Band were playing. We had a few showers during the concert. Toward the end of the fireworks the rain started and the drops were big and they started coming down fast. We ended up watching the last of the fireworks under a pavilion. Talk about an abrupt ending to the evening.

We spent the night with Marlies, Kent and Braxton then went to church with them. It was interesting because Marlies had been called as 2nd Counselor in the Primary and was sustained at church. It was nice to be there as she was set apart.

Erik had made arrangements to meet with Pres and Sis Crocket Sunday afternoon. It was fun for me to meet them and feel of their love for Erik. Sunday evening we met with the Kunz family at Aunt Eileen's. Dean was the only one not there and we had just seen him. Brent opened up the pool and the kids played in it. As Erik got into the pool he did a cannon ball and the water splashed and got several wet. Later in the evening he tossed Levi across the pool into the water and splashed the adults wet again. What a silly boy he is!!

Monday we spent the afternoon at Temple Square and went on a tour of the Conference Center. It was enjoyable and this time we were able to go up to the roof. (The roof had been closed previously.) Then we went to Gateway to let the kids play in the fountains. Braxton was hesitant to get wet at first but after watching the kids he finally decided to join in. It was fun watching the kids have fun getting wet.

We arrived home Tuesday night tired but exhilirated after being with the family. It is hard being away as each time the little ones have to get reacquainted with us, but that is the way it is right now.

Licence!!

2008-08-06T14:14:00.003-06:00

Today I went down to the MVD (Motor Vehicle Department) so that I could get my licence. I took drivers ed and got my certificate and all i need to do was take a stupid DWI course. It was a waste of time because I learned about DWI in class. But I watched the movie and filled out the book and sent it in so I could get my certificate of doing it. I got that in the mail yesterday, today dad took me down to the MVD so I could get it. I got a number and when the lady called my number I went over there and the lady didn't see that I am 18 and told me that I have to have my permit for 6 months, and after I told her that I was 18 she was like oh OK then. I gave her all of the stuff that I needed and got my licence! I have a temporary one because they are now making special ones and they only have the thing to so it in Santa Fe. So I have this paper on till they send me my other one in the mail. I should get it by next week sometime. Even though I have only been driving for just over 5 weeks now. I'm not sure if I'm ready to drive solo. I'll probably drive around the block a few times so I get conformable driving all by my self.

Wakeboarding

2008-08-05T14:03:00.005-06:00

I went on a boating trip this last weekend and went wakeboarding and tubbing, I even tryed kneeboarding. Tubbing was a blast and I even got up on the wakeboard. I never did get up on the kneeboard. I also jumped off a really tall rock and it was really SCARY. Here are a few pics and a video of me wakeboarding. I was really sore after I got done and sun burnt but it was worth it. I had a BLAST!!!!

Me getting ready to get up.
Up on the wakeboard.
Me and my friend Hillary on the tube.
The rock that I jumped off of. It was scary, I didn't want to jump but once I was up there I had to.

The video of me wakeboarding. :)

See Granny Go!!!

2008-07-29T12:34:00.003-06:00

We went to Wal-Mart yesterday to fill a prescription for Erik and knew we would have a wait of about a half hour. Mom didn't feel like sitting in the hot van so she came in. As we were entering the store, the greeter (Moms VT Companion's dad) noticed her limping and asked if she would like to use one of the power carts. She asked if it was okay to do so. He told her sure it is. So mom got to use the cart.

Ooooopppppppssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-29T12:12:00.003-06:00

Saturday, July 26 I was helping Camille Parson clean her house and get things finished up so that they could make their move to Utah. You know me, I try to help others when they need it. I stepped across something (I don't remember what), and as I did my foot slipped on the damp tile entry way, which had been mopped previously. I basically did the splits and when you have never really done the splits it doesn't work so well. I felt something pop in the back of my leg and just laid there. I tried to get up and as I did I couldn't put any weight on my leg without being in pain. My thought was that I had broken my leg. I thought "Oh, no there goes our trip to Utah. I guess I will stay home." I called Dad and he and Erik came and took me to the ER. They finally x-rayed my leg (with it being the femur they had to shoot it in 2 shots with each angle). It wasn't broken, which I was very grateful for despite the fact the the x-ray technician said that brakes can heal faster than ligaments. They said that it was a strain. (Erik and Dad said that it was probably a pulled ham string.) They wrapped it with 2 ace bandages and sent me home and said that I should stay off of it for a few days. So now Levi and I both have had a trip to the ER this year.

Family History

2008-07-29T09:50:00.002-06:00

Since Thursday I have been trying to find information on our ancestors. I have a pedigree of names back to the 6th generation right now and I have found a few sites on our ancestors all ready. One of those sites has been created by someone in dad's Aunt Thekla's family. I am amazed at how much I have found without really trying. It is really cool! I just might get into this family history stuff.
Here are the sites:
http://walkthrutime.com/kunzhistory.htm
http://www.geocities.com/~wallyg/L205jesse_nathaniel_smith.htm
Also I have some stories saved to my hard drive from the Rogers as well as a line off the Gibson family. Let me know if you want those. I may post them, but the one from the Gibson's is very long. Uncle Marv wrote it and it looks cool.

Family Picnic and Fireworks

2008-07-29T09:42:00.003-06:00

The family in Utah got together on the twenty-fourth and Brian was in charge. We all brought dinners and Brian and Shanalea provided the lemonade to drink as well as the chips to munch. The kids played at the park for quite a while and then we headed back to Brian and Shanalea's for fireworks. After fireworks all the cousins (except Braxton who is too young) had a sleepover at Brian and Shanalea's house. Thanks Brian and Shanalea. It seemed like we all had a good time! I didn't get many pictures but these are the few I did get.

I'm in the Primary now

2008-07-23T09:50:00.006-06:00

On Sunday, Bro. Hendricks called and wanted to meet with me on Tuesday, July 15. He extended the call to be 2nd Counselor in the Primary presidency. I was feeling that it was the wrong time as I felt that I needed to continue to support Amanda Galbraith as the secretary to the Young Women. After praying and going to the temple, I felt that the calling to the Primary was the right calling for me. I was sustained and set apart on July 20. I will miss working with the young women and their leaders. Changes come and that is part of life, accepting the changes in our life.

What a wonderful experience

2008-07-23T08:28:00.002-06:00

Last night we had a wonderful experience. The youth went to the temple to do baptisms for the dead. Dad, Erik, Liesel and I were all there in the temple together. Dad was the recorder and Erik was asked to do the baptizing and he was able to baptize Liesel. I was able to give Liesel her towel as she came out of the font. It was interesting watching the two of them in the font. It is such a wonderful thing to realize that we can all be in the temple together, that all of my children are worthy and want to go to the temple. We are truly blest. I had to chuckle as I watched Erik and Liesel in the font. I didn't know why, but it looked like they were having a hard time containing their laughter. As we were leaving I found out why. One of the names Liesel was being baptized for was Mary or Polly (no last name) and the two of them wanted to laugh. They chuckled about it during the night. Know that I am glad to have each one of you as part of our family. I look forward to the day that we can all be in the temple together.

Erik and Summer Semester at SVU

2008-07-12T00:14:00.002-06:00

Well, SVU posted grades on wednesday and I looked at them quickly before i went off to work at the Basketball camp I had the privilage to coach at. I wanted to share them with the family... So here they are.

Technological Tools
1 Credit Course
A-

Foundations of Education
3 Credit Course
(The main one I was worried about.)
B

Jogging
1 Credit Course
A

Advanced Strength Training
1 Credit Course
A

So there you have it. I went back in June to bring my GPA up so I wouldn't be kicked out of school and so I can be eligable for basketball in the fall and I passed all my classes. So I am no longer going to be kicked out of school and I am eligable. YAY!!!!

Princess Marlies...yeah right!

2008-07-11T13:19:00.002-06:00

The other day I got contemplating the curse of the Princess syndrome (or entitlement syndrome) and I realized just how blessed I was to be raised by the meanest parents on earth (maybe not the meanest, but pretty mean non-the-less right?) I did not always get whatever I wanted and sometimes I was told no just because it was fun for parents to say it (I know it's true because I do it too). I was expected to help around the house alot (willingly or unwillingly as it usually was). Pouting only got me further from what I wanted, and kissing up rarely got me anywhere either (except with dad at the grocery store but he's entitled to his own weeknesses). Really it was a rough life for us Kunz kids...real rough!

As I was contemplating this I realized that I own my parents a hearty thank you. I don't expect the world to bring me things. I realize if I want it I have to work for it. I don't expect that because I am righteous the Lord will give me what I think I need. Sometimes it requires patience. I also don't expect that just because some place has an excellent guarantee or claim to good customer service that it doesn't mean I should get it all for free if I feel mistreated. I feel like I have been blessed by the Lord to have two wonderful parents who were more concerned about shaping me into a fine individual then making up for their shortcomings by giving in to what I wanted.

Because of these things I am easy to get along with. I have been blessed to find friends wherever I go. I am able to enjoy my husband even if he isn't a doctor, lawyer, or millionaire. I can simplify and still find enjoyment in that. It may sound like I am tuting my own horn, but that is not my intention. I just want to express my gratitude to my Heavenly Father and my parents for the way I was raised. I know how to be as happy as a princess even as a servant, and I can still hold my head just as high. Thank you so very much!

New Look!

2008-07-10T13:37:00.002-06:00

Way to go Dad and Mom! Nice new look for the blog! I love it and I'm very impressed!!! I didn't know you were so adventurous!

Objects in mirror may be more dangerous than they appear!

2008-07-03T23:05:00.002-06:00

It's a good thing people use hot air balloons in New Mexico. The streets are more dangerous than ever!!! Liesel got her permit!!!! AAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
To top it off, her drivers ed car is a mustang!!!! Is that business owner MENTAL??!!?! Erik says it's so the victims can readily identify the car that hit them!!! All of us here in Utah are so glad to be in Utah. All of you there may want to beware!!! On the other hand, happy belated father's day dad, you finally have a chauffeur!
We love you Liesel and we know you'll do great out there on the roads with all the coyotes and roadrunners! beep beep, vroom!!! :)

our pet

2008-06-17T22:16:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to show you our other pet. He lives in the bushes by the front window. Levi wanted to put him in a box and keep him but we told him that he needs to live outside.

29 and some months

2008-06-10T22:08:00.004-06:00

It's our mom's birthday and since nobody was around to witness her birth I guess we have to go on her word that she's 29 and some months. She's at least been around 36 years

(I know because Brian is 6 years older than me and they were married two years before that)

That's a lot of years of being a mom since the young lady in this picture still lives at home
She's even been a grandma for a while too, but don't tell anyone
For special event she'll even dress up with the grandkids.

Happy Birthday Mom, Grandma, Richard's wife, Sister to some and Daughter to another two...and let's not forget mother-in-law to two men and one woman.

I think for now we'll keep you... if you would like to add to this birthday tribute post a comment regarding how this woman has made your life a better one!

Our Playlist

2008-05-31T00:10:00.002-06:00

As I listened to the playlist the other day I got thinking that this is the family blog not just the Rich blog. So I am soliciting your input as to what songs represent the family as a whole. I can make a playlist for my own blog of my music and still have this with music representing the family.
Below is the complete list as it stands.

Salt Lake City -- The Beach Boys
Wand'rin' Star -- Paint Your Wagon
My Favorite Things -- Julie Andrews
(Get Your Kicks) On Route 66 -- Nat King Cole
Pretty Woman -- Roy Orbison
Moon River -- Henry Mancini, His Orchestra A
Star Wars Theme Song -- Classical
Unforgettable -- Nat King Cole
Somewhere in Time -- Royal Scottish National Orchestra
I Could Have Danced All Night -- Audrey Hepburn
Phantom of the Opera -- Chrissyy
All I Have To Do Is Dream -- The Everly Brothers
The Baby Elephant Walk -- Henry Mancini
Castle on a Cloud -- Les Miserables
Orinoco Flow -- Enya
Sugar, Sugar -- The Archies
Mona Lisa -- Nat King Cole
Unchained Melody -- Righteous Brothers
Blue Velvet -- Bobby Vinton
Color My World -- Chicago
The Pink Panther Theme -- Henry Mancini
Only Time -- Enya
Walk Don't Run -- The Ventures
Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini -- Vinton, Bobby
Pilot of the Airwaves -- Charlie Dore
Santa Fe -- Newsies
Feels So Good -- Chuck Mangione
One Tin Soldier Rides Again -- Maureen Mcgovern
Ebb Tide -- The Righteous Brothers
I Talk to the Trees -- Clint Eastwood
I Love How You Love Me -- Unkn.
Mr. Lonely -- Bobby Vinton
Smile -- Nat King Cole
Turn, turn, turn. -- The Byrds
Mr. Tambourine Man -- The Byrds
Indian Reservation (The Lament of the Cherokee Reservation Indian) - Raiders -- Paul Revere & the Raiders
The Sound Of Silence -- Simon And Garfunkel
Bridge over troubled waters -- simon and garfunkel
At The Zoo -- Simon and Garfunkel
Yesterday -- Beatles
Norwegian Wood -- The Beatles
Sunrise Serenade -- Glen Miller
American Patrol -- Glen Miller
Original by Frank & Nancy Sinatra -- Something Stupid
Downtown -- Petula Clark
Snowbird -- Anne Murray
Tennessee Waltz -- Anne Murray
save the last dance -- drifters
Blue Moon -- The Drifters
On Broadway -- Drifters
Up On The Roof -- The Drifters
My Girl -- Temptations
Some Enchanted Evening -- Jay and the Americans
Stop! In The Name Of Love -- Supremes
I Hear A Symphony -- Diana Ross And The Supremes
Windy -- The Association
Cherish -- The Association
Never My Love -- The Association
Lightning Strikes -- Lou Christy
To Sir With Love -- Lulu

Healthy Lives

2008-05-27T13:19:00.003-06:00

For the last two or three months I have been working really hard to loose weight and become healthy. I have myself on a program of 30-45 minutes of cardio three times a week and 30-45 minutes of strength training three times a week. I have only lost about 6 lbs so far but the benefits I have experienced have been so far reaching it is amazing. I have noticed that my self-esteem has risen as I realize that I am capable of things that I never knew. I also have noticed that my moods have improved drastically. I don't fight with myself to exercise as much, and overall I am just a happier and healthier person. I am more positive which has changed my life immensely! My stress levels are down and I just feel like regardless of what trials come my way I can keep my chin up and be happy because I am blessed to have a loving Heavenly Father who has blessed me with a strong and healthy body. Over the past 6-8 months I have struggled with mild depression. It's been mild enough I haven't used any drugs to treat it, but I know that this exercising has really helped me to be less depressed.

As far as the physical aspects of this progress I have lost more than pounds. I have lost inches all over. In one months tracking of my progress I have lost 1 inch in my waist. I have almost lost two inches in my hips. The best part is that I have lost the struggle of exercising. Now I realize how good it feels and I also can see that my efforts are giving me results. I feel strength and flexibility through out my body and it feels so good.

I guess I just wanted to share this with you all because I know that even though many of you have been blessed with Holdaway genes we all can benefit from healthier lifestyles. My hope is that as I work on the trials in my life I can uplift you and help us all to be a happier and healthier family. I guess I feel I have been blessed and I want to share this knowledge with you. If any of you are interested in my health journey let me know. I have written a separate blog to track my progress but since I have sensitive information on there (weight, measurements, etc.) I have made it private. If you are interested I would really like to share this journey with you and hopefully inspire you all to find ways to become healthier in your own lives. I love you all and I wish you the best health and happiness in life. Love, Marlies

P.S. For those of you who are walking and doing what you need to...keep up the good work.

American Idol Nerds

2008-05-22T23:04:00.002-06:00

So just to restate the obvious... Our family are nerds or dorks or what ever you wanna call it. I say this because Tuesday evening Liesel watched American Idol and started to call and vote for David Archuleta, for those who don't know who that is he is from Murray, UT. So Dad told us that we need to have prayer so who ever wanted to go to bed could then we all came downstairs and we all started calling to vote for David Archuleta. Yes I know that it is dorky but we all thought it was funny.

A Tribute to Mothers

2008-05-10T04:27:00.000-06:00

As Mothers Day quickly approaches, I feel inclined to say a few words about them. To start with Moms are the true unsung hero's of society especially those that are fortunate enough to be stay at home moms. This became more clear to me than ever this week when on a morning radio show they ask an impossible question and the question asked was 70% of the most sucessful men attribute their success to this. The answer ended up being "Their Mothers". As I look at Yvonne and I's families and our many friends and associates, it becomes obvious that those children that come from families and have a strong mom that has nurtured and guided them through the years from birth to adulthood turn out to be great assets to those around them. Therefore I am thankful and grateful for all the MOTHERs that are in my life. Those that have passed on and those that are my wife, sister, daughter, friends and neighbors.
Even the news and science are finally giving moms some recognition. check out the link.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032118/

In conclusion I would like to wish all the mothers everywhere a Happy and Wonderful Mothers Day.

Fire Alarms and Children

2008-05-07T23:48:00.001-06:00

Click on the title then the video link to see a shocking bit of information. Aunt Eileen sent me this and when I tried to send it on I got several mailbox failures, so I decided that it is important enough to add to the blog.

Love you all

blog header picture

2008-05-04T15:16:00.001-06:00

What do you think of my blog header picture?

Our wonderful friend, Marty

2008-05-04T14:13:00.002-06:00

Marty Bretzing, what can I say. He is a great man. Kathy, his wife, called Monday evening to let us know that he had passed away on Sunday. It has taken me until now to be able to collect my thoughts and put them down. When the phone rang, Dad answered it and said that it was Kathy and I couldn’t figure out who he was talking to as we don’t talk to her very often. He handed me the other phone and when I heard her voice I knew who it was immediately. He had cancer and had previously beat it but there were those cells that hid and came back. Kathy told us that in January he started having some troubles and ended up becoming paralyzed from the neck down the last few weeks. I know that it is a blessing for him not to be in pain and he wouldn’t have wanted to be a burden to anyone, but for me it was hard to hear that he isn’t with us as we hadn’t heard that the cancer was back. It is also hard as we hadn’t seen them for a while and I think that makes his passing that much harder. When I first met him he was kind of gruff and a bit intimidating. As I got to know him I grew to love him and found him to be lots of fun to be around. I have fond memories of Marty. I remember going camping with their family. We went up Hobble Creek Canyon. We had a great time. Our family had to come down so Rich could go to work and they stayed up an extra night. The next morning they were at their apartment and when we asked why they said that someone was drunk and noisy and they didn’t want to be there in the campground. So they had packed up and came home in the middle of the night. They came and stayed with our kids when we came down to New Mexico for the Virchow funeral. My kids were glad when we got home but I knew they had been in good hands and were well taken care of. Despite the fact, they said they hadn’t liked Marty telling them what to do. When Marlies was married they drove to Meadow for the wedding reception. Yes, they lived in Payson so it wasn’t as far as some but they made the effort to be there and support us. We had an open house when Erik went on his mission and again they made the effort to be there. It meant so much to us that they were there. He gave me a bear hug and told me “It is so good to see you guys again.” I felt the same way with them. We will miss him but the blessing is that we have our memories of him and know that we will see him again on the other side. And I think of the great reunion that he must be having with those who have gone on that he knows and loves. Till me meet again.

What a week

2008-05-04T13:25:00.002-06:00

This past week has been truly appropriate for where we live. It has been Wild and Crazy times in the southwest. It started out on Monday with eye exams for Yvonne and I, which went really well. The eye doctor said that for our age’s etc. we have very healthy eyes. While we were out we stopped at Lenscrafters to order me some new glasses and then at the post office to send the last of the stuff for Liesel’s on line class off. Then we had a meeting with Liesel’s counselor at school. That wasn’t even as bad as I had prepared myself for. It was after that when things started going wild. It all started when we stopped off after the meeting with the counselor at the registrar’s office and were told that we have to have the transcript back from BYU no later than Thursday in order for her to graduate. This meant, as it seems normal for this clan, that there was no problem or hurry as long as it was done yesterday. Which of course it wasn’t. Thus we started having many calls to BYU and a second stop at the post office. We then found out that we could have faxed or emailed the stuff or even overnight expressed, which we didn’t do. With that entire goings on I forgot to go to the bank and put some money in Erik’s account so to let him ship some of his things home. (ie. Bike etc.) Then that night as we were watching the news the phone rang. It was our good friend Kathy she said that she hoped that it wasn’t too late to call but she had some news. So, I quickly got the second phone and gave it to Yvonne. That is when we learned of Marty’s passing. For the next few days we looked over every scenario we could come up with to try and make it to the funeral. But with trying to help Liesel and my crazy work schedule we knew that no-matter how hard you try Mt. Everest wont fit in a teacup.
Tuesday I finally made it to the bank and we still called BYU many times trying to expedite this whole on line class thing. That night Yvonne went to the Temple with the youth while Liesel and I stayed home, she did home work and I was there for support. Then I went into work for some OT only to find that it was a slow night and I was not needed. So I spent the time to do a little homework of my own.
The rest of the week was still trying to expedite things with BYU and my trying to work and get enough sleep to work. Which of course wasn’t happening. By the Friday night I felt like a 12 cylinder engine running on ½ of 1 cylinder. What made it worse was it was looking like a dead night so since others also needed something to do we decided to do a periodic maintenance a day and a half early. Of course we finally got BYU to send the final for Liesel’s class so she can take it on Monday. Right after I left for work Yvonne and Liesel left for the airport to pick up Erik, But before they could get out of the driveway, he called and said, I’m in and we are on our way to the gate. So he was coming out after picking up his luggage when they got off the freeway headed to the airport.
Friday night and Saturday were our ward fathers and sons camp out which we considered going to but based on the time Erik would get home and we could get to up there it would be after 10 and since we have never been to the area, I had no desire to try and find the place in the dark.
So, just as a heads up, I am canceling all future weeks that are this wild and crazy ahead of time.

Marty Bretzing funeral

2008-05-02T19:13:00.009-06:00

Matthew is in the center of the photo

For those who don't realize this is Matthew and Valerie

Matthew led the motorcycle brigade

The funeral proceedings were as follows:

Opening Hymn: Praise To The Man
Life Sketch: Valerie Shelley
Brother's tribute: Matt Bretzing
Musical Selection: Scott Hunt
"You'll Never Walk Alone"
Son's tribute: Matthew Bretzing
Friend's tribute: Brad Peterson
Former Bishop's Tribute: Kenneth Madsen
Closing Hymn: I Stand All Amazed

Here are some of the notes of interest from the talks:

Valerie

*Spoke of a letter Marty wrote to President Kimball after he was reactivated. Received a letter back and cherished that letter.

*Met Kathy and they both decided to go on missions but were secretly engaged while serving.

*Christ was the center of his life

*Had a great love for his country and the flag

*Loved Harley Davidsons but never received one until his family gave him one for Christmas 2006. He never received one prior because his family ALWAYS came first.

*When the family was at his bedside in the hospital and were sad he would tell them to "quit your blubbering"

Matt (brother)

*Marty's middle name Orin was after Orin Porter Rockwell.

*Marty was always his protection and his "rock"

*Marty learned to love all things tools from working at the gas station with his dad

*Pulled his father from underneath a pick up truck when he'd had a heart attack in 1970.

*Was always strong and a protector

*Very powerful physically and spiritually and protected his brother Learned to love motorcycles from his friends in school

Matthew (son)

*His dad LOVED their family Quoted David O McKay that the more important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother and Matthew had not doubt his father loved his mother

*Marty often went without because of the needs of his family and never complained

*Taught that the word can't should never be in a man's vocabulary

*He loved his Harley even more because his family gave it to him

*Taught to protect your family because that is the only thing you take with you

*He told a story about his cousin going camping with them for the first time. Matthew said, "I don't think she had ever seen a pine tree in it's natural setting in the forest" Valerie and cousin were in the tent next to that family and hear something outside the tent. Yelled for her dad but he was already there with his gun trying to protect them from a simple raccoon. He was always there when you needed him no questions asked

*When he told the family he had cancer the second time he said it was ok he'd beat it once and he was ready to beat it again. Later that night Rachel was having a hard time with it and Marty let her cry it out in his arms and comforted her.

*Marty has such a testimony of the gospel and told Matthew to gain is own relationship with his Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ

*His dad would tell jokes and it didn't matter if they were funny or not his dad would still get a kick out of them and throw his head back and laugh

*he always kept his word no matter what he told the kids he was going to do

*Taught them that no matter what they are dealt you always make the best of it

*Heavenly Father loves his dad because Wednesday was cold with chance of snow, Thursday was cold with a chance of snow, Friday was sunny and warm, and Saturday was cold with a chance of snow

*His final comments were that his dad loved their whole family including all extended family members, and he loved everyone there.

Brad Peterson (friend and neighbor)

*Marty introduced himself to Brad right after Brad had moved in but he did it in the Smiths parking lot and they sat and talked for 45 minutes

*Marty LOVED his family and his wife to the point that he couldn't stand being away from Kathy

*One time when she went to Vegas to see parents Marty asked Brad to jump on bikes and go meet her. Ended up meeting at the gas station in Scipio

*He always beamed when speaking of his children. His boys were his pride and joy and his daughter he would protect at all cost

*No one loved his country and liberty like Marty did

*Loved the gospel, Heavenly Father, and Jesus Christ and really enjoyed working in the young men's program

*Thoroughly enjoyed woodworking. If you turned out his pant cuff it would have saw dust in it...even at church

*Marty was known for his integrity, compassion for others, and unwavering faith

Those are all my notes I was going to type them up in paragraph form and make them nice to read, but there we just too many notes (it was a 2 hour funeral). I missed the bishops talk so I don't have notes from that, but all in all everything was nice. It was very neat to watch the motorcycle brigade. Kathy seemed really well composed. In fact so did all the kids especially Valerie. I just thought in closing I would share with you the words on the back of the funeral program...

Dare to Climb A Mountain
Many people view the mountain, but few ever want to climb. For when you scale a mountain you must leave the crowd behind. There's a mountain that God offers. Those who climb it must be true...It's a peak call full-time service and it beckons now to you.

Will you dare to climb a mountain, though at times you'll feel alone? Will you be a valiant servant. Leave the comforts of your home? Now the way won't be easy. Many folks won't understand, but there'll be applause in Heaven and the Lord will hold your hand.
No you won't hear loud cheers & trumpets when you tell folks of your plans. They may ask "Why climb that mountain; why not play in the silver sand?" But the voice still rings from Heaven, "Give me men with sights set high." "Give me men to match my mountain; men who'll reach the top or die."

As you journey up the mountain you will feel the cold winds blow, and at times you'll get discouraged, and your steps begin to slow. If you'll just keep on the trail & refuse to turn around, you can stand atop the mountain, no better place could be found.

When you stand there at the summit with the worlds far below, you'll see sights reserved for climbers, and your heart will know a glow. The guide that leads you to the top will be there at the setting sun, and whisper at the end of life, "Let's go home & rest. Well done."

What's the latest

2008-05-02T04:45:00.002-06:00

Well, here it is May 2 and I don't know what happened to March or April. Erik will be getting home in about 15 hours, Liesel is doing her Senior Thesis Report today and I was infrormed in a meeting that Intel, NM will be hiring again in just a few months. A year ago they were laying off. So once again, Welcome to the Electronics World rollercoaster. Where we hire like crazy to ramp a new product, only to layoff when it is no longer the hottest thing out there.
My supervisor asked me if I would be interested in filling an install qual position a couple of weeks ago which would put me on 4-10's during day time hours for 6 months to a year. I accepted only to be told later that an upper manager had put a stop to all changes because some of the sups were complaining that these changes were being used to cherry pick. I doesn't matter that the fellow I would swap with doesn't want to go to days. But as I have said many times before, Just because we build logic doesn't mean management has to use it. Then to be told that there is still a chance that this change still may happen. It makes you feel like the ball on a paddle ball.
Oh, well a year from now I will be completely over it because everything will have changed several times.

My cake!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-01T22:19:00.002-06:00

Well it all started. when We went to dinner on tuesday. The young women had their annual fund raiser. We went and ate dinner. It happened to be spagetti. As normal they had a slient auction and then they began to have their live bake sale auction. there were several cakes on a table, well any ways we were sitting next to two other couple and decided to buy a certain cake, since there was three couples. we decided there was nobody in the room to out bid us. the bidding started at 5 dollars the went to 10, 15, 25, 45 , 50 ,55, 65 , 70, then finally 90 dollars. Our competers stopped at 50, but we kept bidding up to 90 dollars between our selves . nobody could believe it. Our down stairs neighbor could not believe that I was bidding so high. She also had made a cake, it looked all pretty and all. I am sure she thought her cake would sell for the highest dollar. It was funny to see her face when this other cake went for twice as much.so all in all I bought three pieces of cake for 30 dollars. and that is my cake.

Music

2008-05-01T20:35:00.002-06:00

I just looked through the playlist on there are definitely some songs that sum up the family . . . or even just the parents. I am VERY impressed that Dad (I'm guessing) set that up!!! Look at us go! However, as I looked at the songs I was thinking that the order should possibly be changed. Wandering star should be one of the first two and Salt Lake City should be the other of the first two. So that's just my 2 cents worth!

btw

2008-04-30T22:27:00.000-06:00

the last two post were written by kent and not by marcell

uh uh

2008-04-30T22:26:00.001-06:00

nobody is posting anything fun. this blog is boring.........

buying my cake and eating it too

2008-04-30T22:21:00.002-06:00

I wish you all were here last night. I think I ate the most expensive piece of cake in my life but it was well worth it. If your interested, please comment, but it was GOOD.

I love You all

2008-04-30T11:43:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to let you know That I love you all and if I am Correct I am coming up on my year mark soon can you beleive it I've been on my mission for almost an Entire Year :)

vacation

2008-04-29T22:16:00.003-06:00

Well, It sounds like things are not going well. with graduation. If it doesn't happen then, we will not be going anywhere in May. which might imply that we will go some where else for our vacation. I also hear, she will find out on the 8 th of May. It is really hard to take off work and not go on a vacation. If it doesn't happen I don't know if I will ever do it again. SO GET YOUR WORK DONE..................................................................

Ward Conference

2008-04-27T14:33:00.004-06:00

Today was Ward Conference. The youth all met together with one of the counselors in the stake presidency, Pres. Webb. He asked the stake Young Women's president to bear her testimony. She told the youth that Heavenly Father knows who they are and loves them. As she told them this I knew again that this is true. I had the warm feeling go down my back and tears came to my eyes. I too know that Heavenly Father knows who we are and wants the best for each one of us. I am thankful for leaders that are inspired as they speak to us. I am thankful that I can serve as the secretary to the YW it is a great place to serve.

no more Mr. Wild Bunny

2008-04-27T00:00:00.002-06:00

I guess I am now petless. as I haven't seen Mr. Wild Bunny for over a week and a half. I'm not sure if it was Liesel scaring it off by trying to get a picture with her phone camera or maybe Wylie Coyote got him. Either way I kinda miss the silly thing.

But just to let you all know what is going on around here, about a month ago my supervisor asked if I would be interested in moving to a new area to work. If I moved it would mean that for a while I would be working four, 10 hour shifts during the day and would be doing work more like what I did at HP. So, I said sure. Well the first of this week he informed me that an upper manager had been hearing to many complaints that some of the supes were cherry picking and trying to keep all the best techs in their areas after the area's are re-aligned soon. So he had stated that there would be absolutely no area changes. Then, last night I was informed that there is still a chance that I could get switched. So as you can see, as I have said many times, the only constant that exists in the electronics industry is change.
I will keep you all posted.

Which animal are you?

2008-04-26T20:38:00.003-06:00

So a week ago Erik and Cheryl's family and my family decided to go to the zoo on the same day. We saw the giraffes and sent a picture of the baby giraffe to Erik to show him what his children will look like. Then I took a picture of the monkeys and they came to the glass to pose and I realized that we'd found Liesel. So since Brian calls his kids monkeys and I call Braxton a turkey I was just wondering, which animal you all think you are. Erik and Liesel you can give your say too if you think you are a different animal, but that doesn't mean that I will believe you. LOL! Love all you animals!

Braxton's Dog

2008-04-21T18:14:00.002-06:00

Since pet ownership rules have been redefined I realized that I needed to share our family pet with you all. About a year and a half ago Braxton and I were out for a walk and this dog followed us home. He followed us up the stairs and sat on our porch for a few hours. I think I will name him Dog! You may think that Dog is no longer our pet since we haven't seen him in a year and a half, but you just never know when your pet might return just as dad doesn't know when his pet might return so I would say according to his standards we have a pet dog. :)

NBA Playoffs

2008-04-19T14:54:00.005-06:00

I am so excited about the NBA Playoffs. For the first time in a long time I think the Jazz have a DANG good chance of taking it or at least going to the finals. I am really excited to watch the Playoffs this Season.

The old family blog.

2008-04-08T19:10:00.002-06:00

I have given admin privliges to you and want to know if we want to keep it or delete it?
Next I am wondering why no one has commented about my pet. I was sure that someone would have something to say even if it was sarcastic.

Ok Finally

2008-04-08T18:25:00.004-06:00

Okay first off this is retarded. Or maybe i am. I say that because I was having the hardest time figuring out how to do this retarded thing. I really don't know why it was so hard but it was. School is going good. I have about 2 1/2 weeks left, and I'm kinda excited to come home and take a break from the whole school thing.

Just to let you all know about Mariel. She is 5'10". She is from North Carolina, but she was born in Utah and lived in Mount Pleasant until she was 13. She is the oldest of 5 kids. Mariel is 21, Hannah is 17, 8 days younger than Liesel, Ethan is 14, almost 15, Christian, who was still born, but if he was alive would be 9 yesterday, and then there is Bridgette, who is 7.

She is an amazing girl and oh by the way just to give you plenty of warning. Mariel and I are planning on her coming out to New Mexico over the summer. What our plans are is for her to come out the week of July 4th. So I would love for her to meet all y'all. So if you can take that week off it would be much appreciative. If y'all can't make it I totally understand but know I am cordially inviting you to meet her.

Oh and if I can convince Mariel to let me post it I want to put a video of us singing a song for the Institute Choir Concert yesterday. It is an amazing piece and would love to show y'all.

PS. Mariel says hi and that she is excited to meet y'all as well

My Pet

2008-04-08T14:43:00.002-06:00

My pet bunny is really more of a pet than you can imagine. Today he sat on the lawn while mom walked past a couple of times and then while I did some work around the truck. Even then he was totally content while mom and I went out and took pictures. You can see how relaxed he is in the picture.

Good Job!

2008-04-06T20:50:00.002-06:00

Wow!!! I can't believe all the action that has been happening on this blog! Who knew that our family would respond with so much enthusiasm? Last time we had a blog set up for us we didn't do so well. Go us!

In God We Still Trust

2008-04-06T14:32:00.003-06:00

Mom got an email from Uncle Wendal and it had this song in it called "In God We Still Trust" by: Dimond Rio, the radio people will not play it on the radio. I was able to find it on youtube and it had showed that A LOT of people had aready heard it. Even though it is not on the radio, people are still litening to it, and they have been leaving comments, most of them are posivive but tere are a few that are negative.

This song is AMAZING. I hope you all enjoy the song.

To see the video of it on youtube here is the link... I hope you all take the chance and listen to it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiYgpPB1kwU

Parents are Distracting

2008-04-05T15:30:00.006-06:00

Parents are VERY distracting. They throw things around during conference when you are trying to listen, then you have to throw it back at them so that they can have it back. But they think that you are just being mean and throwing it back at them, so they throw it again. Then you are all laughing REALLY HARD. They also come and sit on you and squish you. They are also REALLY gross, they make loud noises the stink, yes I'm talking about FARTING, ewww. Being the youngest means that I have to put up with them all the time and they are always picking on me. I don't have someone that they can also pick on so I get ALL of it. But don't worry I get them back when they least expect it. *evil laugh*

HURRY HOME ERIK R...

My Pet

2008-04-05T14:54:00.004-06:00

People (mainly my children) tell me that I need a pet. So for anyone that thinks I need a pet, I am letting you know that I have a pet. It's the Best kind of a pet. It doesn't require any time to tend and it doesn't cost me a cent for it's food. No it is not cuddly nor does it like to be held, yet it is there every day as I go to work sitting on the front lawn for me to see and enjoy. So what is my pet? It is my Pet "Wild Bunny"

Isn't he a cute little bunny?

Blogging buzz

2008-04-03T11:23:00.002-06:00

I am so glad that Cheryl caught the blogging buzz. I recall when I took my creative writing class in high school that the first day the teacher told us that we need to think of ourselves as writers to be in that class. When she said that I was thinking maybe I needed to drop the class because I am not a writer. I have since changed my mind and I have grown to LOVE writing. I guess it's my outlet for when everyone is done listening to me talk. Anyway I am glad that you all are writing too because I feel like it's helped me to feel closer to those who also blog and I want to feel closer to you all too. Even thought we are not close in distance we can still be close through the wonderful technologies the Lord has blessed us with.

With all that I will try and be brief on my month. The month has been busy. On the 15th I put together our ward party which was an Easter egg hunt and breakfast. I was so thankful for all the help I received from my committee and the ward. I was finally able to enjoy the activity and relax because I had it organized and I put other people in charge of things.

The next weekend Kent and I celebrated our 5th anniversary. It was so much fun to go up to Centerville and take in the musical Big River. We also went to dinner before that and it was really a yummy Chinese place to eat. After the play we spent the night at the Plaza at Temple Square. It was so fun to just spend some time away from our day to day life even if it was only 30 minutes away. The next morning we went to breakfast and came down to Cheryl's house to pick up Braxton who loved his first sleep over. I was really grateful to Cheryl for taking him and I am grateful to her kids who treated him like a prince. I love all my nieces and nephews!

One of the ways the Lord has blessed us also is in answering prayers. One day about two weeks ago I was praying and thought to ask the Lord to bless us in using our money wisely as we are starting to get some overtime again. As soon as I said those words the thought came to me, check the Jordan school district continuing education booklet for a class. As soon as my prayer was done I did just that and come to find out there was only one financial class offered. The last way to sign up was to go to the school that very night and register. I left the booklet out for Kent to see with the class highlighted and he said we should both sign up and take the class. Last night was our second class and already I am thinking so differently. I would really like to share the book and the ideas with all of our family. I was glad at our family party to hear that Brian and Shanalea have already learned these principles and are applying them. I can now understand why he's made comments about being concerned about my financial welfare. He was right to worry, but I feel confident in getting my finances in order, and I know that in addition to that the Lord will bless my efforts as I as him for his guidance.

Finally I would like to thank Michaela/Cheryl for inviting me to Michaela's birthday party. I may never want to have girls now after spending the evening with so many 10-year-old girls (I forgot how 10-year-old girls behave, they are just as wild as beehives), but really it was fun and by the time I have girl's Michaela may be the one coming and saving me from their 10-year-old party. I also have a great appreciation for karaoke. Go figure, I was raised in a crazy family that sings along with the tabernacle choir for fun. My husband must be right to think we are crazy. At least I can say that I do my best to enjoy life. I love each and every one of you even if I can't seem to tell you as often as I should. I feel very blessed to have each of you in my life.

Our Move to New Mexico

2008-04-03T10:55:00.003-06:00

Dad came home from work this morning and said he wanted to go for a walk, that he had sat too long and too much at work last night and needed to go for a walk so hopefully he would sleep better. As we were walking and talking I got to thinking about our move to New Mexico and decided that I needed to post it. I guess the other reason is because I heard of a fellow in our ward that as far as we can tell lost his job. So here goes. As we took Erik to the MTC, just over 3 years ago, we were feeling concerned about our job (probably me more than Dad). Even though we couldn't really afford for Dad and I to fly with him to take him, we decided that we needed to go. That was a blessing probably for me more than for Dad, because while we were at the meeting one of the MTC Presidency told the missionaries and their families that "The Lord takes care of his missionaries and their families". I needed to hear that because it helped me through the next year of Dad being unemployed, my working close to full time and then being apart while we went through the move to New Mexico. I knew that the Lord was taking care of us and that we would be fine. As we got ready to send Devin on his mission, rumors started flying that there could be layoffs again. I decided that it wasn't worth worrying because I felt like we were planning on supporting a missionary again and that we would be taken care of again. I have a testimony that the Lord does take care of his missionaries and their families and I am thankful for that.

New Mexico Sunrise

2008-04-03T05:00:00.003-06:00

I took this with my phone camera on the way home last week. Since I get to see lots of sunrises and not so many sunsets I am starting to enjoy them down here as much as the great sunsets we get. I hope you enjoy it as well.

2008-04-03T00:02:00.002-06:00

So now that I am here and it is actually letting me add my 2 cents worth, I have only a hapenny's worth to say. I tried to upload a picture but it errored out and I am now out of time. You know "Back to the grinding stone."

Happenings at Chez' house

2008-04-01T21:36:00.002-06:00

As usual March was a busy month at our house. Kylie had her b-day and we went to Temple Square and bowling to celebrate. That was a fun day. The kids were out of school so we had Erik take the day off so we could celebrate in style! As we were leaving Temple Square Michaela told me that she didn't really want to leave because she felt the Spirit so strong. As we hit the "tween" years I am realizing that I need to be sure to cherish these moments because the teens are not far behind.

Then came my birthday. Erik took care of me by making me omelets for breakfast (YUM) and salmon for dinner. He also instructed me not to clean so I took some time to read the Ensign which was really awesome!

The not-so-funny but funny news that came from our house this month came when Levi swallowed a thumb tack. He had it in his mouth at school and at some point it went down his throat. He told his teacher who sent him to the office and then the office called me. I took him to the hospital and they took an xray and told us that we were good to go. So we left with the understanding that he would have to pass it and that he should be able to do so safely. That was, however, a little too much excitement for me for the day.

Michaela got to have her friend birthday party this year so we had some of her friends over for pizza and karaoke. It was a lot of fun. We also played the elephant game that we used to play when we'd get together with the Holdaways.

Sunday we got together with Brian & his family and Marlies and hers and we played the elephant game again. Michaela. Levi and Brianna did great!!! Michaela was really good at it. I remember Teresa hanging out as the elephant for a long long time, and that's kind of what Michaela did.

Getting Started

2008-03-30T22:58:00.002-06:00

Here it is!!! Our family newsletter. For those of you who missed our little family get together, we hope to see you next time!!! (he, he) We are going to try to do a family newsletter that we can put a little about our families and maybe find out some things that otherwise we may not hear about. We hope to hear from Erik, Liesel and Devin (if possible) too. I have set it up so that it will email us each time someone posts. That may get annoying, but at least we will know when someone has something to say to us. Let's plan to update our blog each Fast Sunday. If you forget, don't worry, those of us who remember will blog and then you'll get the email and. . . tada. . . you'll remember!!! Here's to our Family being Together Forever despite all the miles between us now!