Crazy Adventures and Fun With the Schroeder's

I feel sooooo lazy!!!!!

2012-01-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

I am really enjoying Martin Luther King Day....I am so LAZY!!! I am doing a little cleaning, but mostly just watching mindless tv, sitting by the fire (I really hope we get a fireplace in our new home when we move) in the recliner...hoping that the Home Showing company doesn't call for a showing today because I want to really be lazy....it that bad???

I'm so disappointed that our house isn't selling .. we are going to upgrade our counter tops in the kitchen in hopes they look better for buyers...people love our home, "it's clean, well taken care of"...yada yada yada..either they are lying or I just don't know the answer. Every time I am with my mom I am sad because I know she needs to be with us...she is healthy and doing good, don't get me wrong...but I think she is just lonely and it's just not fair for her to be alone all the time. If we had more room here, another bathroom etc, I would move her in immediatly, but it's just not feasible for us all to be happy and not hate each other in a week to move her in right now...besides, her legs hurt so much the stairs would be impossible. We really could use a lot of prayers and good thoughts right now to get this moving....

Well, on this day of Martin Luther King, I think I will run to Walmart,

make Rob's disc with his pictures, (a picture of the missionaries on P-Day...such handsome young men...)

buy me a cookie or something and come back home to sit back put my feet up and chill until tonight when I booggie at Jazzercise.....wow, what a life :)

Top 10..11..12..13..things that happened for the year 2011.....there just was so muc....

2011-12-30T09:23:00.000-08:00

Wow....this year has really gone by FAST!!!! I can't believe it! I have been thinking about all that has happened this year...knowing there is so much more to happen in the year 2012...it's just fun to be a part of this whole experience of life and what it has to bring.....here are a few of the things I remember from the year 2011...

January....I started my new contracted job at Kearns High School as their attendance secretary....what great timing as our Elder Rob has just been sent out on his mission

January....Elder Rob was sent to Hermiston Oregon in the Kennewick Washington mission...and that's where it began...

February...This was a trying and stressful time for our entire family...particularly Kati Jo...this particular incidence is something I don't cherish and don't want to ever go through anything like it again, but as is all our experiences I have seen growth and strength through it....there is always a reason for everything....

March....this is the month we made our decision after 25yrs of living in our home and creating family memories to sell...yep...it's time to move on/forward to a different area, ward, place etc...we will also be moving my mom in with us....

March....My sweet aunt Eva Jane passed away. This was really my only aunt since my mom only had one sister and we were astranged from my father's family all our growing up years. I have a lot of great memories of this sweet wonderful lady. She lead a good life, and left behind her sweet companion who will always miss her and live for the day he can be with her again eternally....

March....Kristi received her endowments! This was a fabulous day and I am proud to be her mom and support her with this new endevor in her life.

July....Grandma Schroeder passed away and returned to her Heavenly Father and family. This was actually a hard time for all of us...she had such a hard life and fought a tough battle...we had her body flown to Riverside California to be buried with Dave, there we did a small gravesite service with her brother, sister and neice. It turned out to be really nice.

Max started 1st grade!!! He is in a Charter School in West Haven so Staci has quite a drive every day taking him to school, which she is more than willing to do to get a good education for her son...and, of course she spends time at the school helping out whenever needed...what a good mom....Since Max is all day it's been fun eat lunch with all the kids...he also loves the great playground, and he has a fantastic teacher!

August...Gary and I decided to extend our service mission at the genealogy library for another year...yeah!

September...Gary and I celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary! We actually went to the west coast....kind of where Elder Schroeder is (but we made sure not to stalk him) It was such beautiful country!!! I loved every minute of it and we had a lot of driving around to see it all!!! Oh, and we got a parking ticket in Seattle Hahahaha...

November...Uncle Leon passed away and his funeral was exactly 9 months from Eva Jane's...they just couldn't be apart and he was so sad with her gone. What a grand reunion it was for these two and the rest of their families...sad note though, my mom is now the last in that part of the family...I know she is lonely...hopefully it won't be too much longer before we can move her in with us....

December....We got to SKYPE with our Elder Schroeder! It was awsome..on Christmas Day...such a beautiful day...we opened gifts, attended church with Kristi and Kati (Kristi's choir sang two very ambitious and beautiful songs and did fantastic) came home, family came over and we skyped with our missionary for one hour!! It was so nice to see him and feel his spirit...he loves his mission and is enjoying being in Walla Walla...

That's it in a nutshell!!! It was hard picking the top how many ever things that happened in the Schroeder house in 2011...I left out a few that were just as memorable such as talking with Elder Rob on Mother's Day...that was wonderful... this was just a bit of our family in 2011....so excited to start the year 2012...hopefully some wonderful things will happen and change the Schroeder world as we see it now...here's to 2012 may it be FANTASTIC!!!

Conference......Scriptures,,,,,,The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints......

2011-10-09T06:47:00.001-07:00

I just loved General Conference last weekend....talks were inspiring and peaceful...loved, loved, loved it! I did make some new decisions in how I live my life though...I noticed there were a lot of talks on reading scriptures, all scriptures (including the Old Testiment) and praying, well, I have made it my goal to read scriptures every morning before getting ready for work and so far so good. It really does start your day out right...gives you reminders of what and how you need to live your life especially in a job where I work directly with parents/kids/teachers/co workders etc all day long and find times that challenge me and how I conduct myself on a daily basis. It's good to make sure I make those choices in my actions that are proper and that reflect me as a member of The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and an example of Jesus Christ and how he would act. It makes a difference and I find I have much better days because of it. (I didn't say perfect days, just better days hahahaha) Anyway, I will pick up the conference talks and re read....my focus is on remembering who I am and who I represent in my life.....

Never Forget!

2011-09-09T16:36:00.001-07:00

This is a day I will never forget....I will always remember watching TV and trying to figure out what just happened, then seeing the 2nd plane fly into the 2nd tower....then later the pentagon....then the plane diverted onto the ground by brave passengers and not knowing what was going to happen next. Then, the quiet skys of West Valley...it was strange to do recess duty at West Valley Elementary School and have the skys so quiet, it was a bit disconcerting especially for us who live in the flight path of the Salt Lake Airport, it was so quiet it was eirie....I think of those families who lost loved ones that day...my heart will always be with them....The Pledge of Allegience....The Star Spangled Banner....our flag.....One Nation Under God, I hope we can always find a way to remember.

School/Work.....it's that time again.........

2011-08-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

It's that time again!!!!! I started back to work last Tuesday...I really like my job so it wasn't a big deal...I like the people I work with and I especially like the kids. We have some of the best kids around and it makes my job that much better...oh, and I am starting this new year at a differnt desk in a different office!!! I will be honest, I had really mixed feelings when I was told I would be moving, but after setting things up...and looking behind me, at my desk...I have a HUGE WINDOW!!! I was in a windowless room before and if you really know me, I LOVE light and windows! BONUS! I can always walk across the hall and see my old buddies when I need to...it's all good! We started with a week of registration....busy, busy, busy! Kearns High started this year with the option of mailing in your registration...something only a quarter or less of the parents did....after standing in a registration line for 1hr and 45min...hot line might I add...I think they will re-think next year and get their registration mailed in...so much easier and FASTER!!! I always mailed in our kids registration...no lines for me! Anyway, even after 7hrs of non stop registration on Friday, we are only half way there....the problem is, we only have a few hours next week earmarked to register kids...lots to do..lots to do! I am happy to be back though

These are our halls for the next week...quiet and clean.....then on August 22nd the
action begins and another school year is in business! BRING IT ON! We are ready..(or not hahaha) ready or not, 2011-2012 school year here we come!!!

Saying Goodby to Grandma Schroeder....'Till we meet again...

2011-07-27T12:09:00.000-07:00

Thursday, July 21, 2011...we left for the final destination and goodby's for Grandma Schroeder. We stayed the first night in Las Vegas then Friday we left for Hemmett/Riverside California. We met at Sherrie's house where we met her husband Ron and their two friends who were there to support Sherrie. Grandma's brother John and his girlfriend Betty who was adorable and sweet andter Ellen and Herb who have always been most gracious always were also at Sherrie's waiting for us. Sherrie and Ron provided a nice meal, we talked and got to know each other, then we left for Riverside Vet Memorial Cemetary. We met at Grandma's grave...she had already been buried. She and Grandpa are located in the most BEAUTIFUL spot at the cemetary. They are under a ridge of trees overlooking a beautiful landscape....we couldn't have picked a more perfect place for their resting place. It was early evening and just a beautiful night as we stood around the gravesite to give honor to Grandma. We cried, laughed, and remembered this "complex" women...Kati gave opening prayer, Kristi read her obituary, and Staci read a couple of hymns she loved...she loved music. Gary then talked a little about his mom...her complex personality and the fact that through it all...she loved her family, each and every one of us. He then dedicated her gravesite and gave a beautiful prayer..I then gave the closing prayer. We stayed behind to talk and be together as family, we not often get to spend time together. It was again a nice, beautiful day where we could feel love for each other and for Grandma Schroeder...Families are Eternal and we will be together again...thank heavens for our Savior and the Atonement, that we can be forgiven of our sins and for offenses we may have made to others....we will see grandma again.....the reunion will be great as it was for grandma on that day July 15th 2011 where she met with her husband, sister, brother, parents and others she loved. God be with you 'till we meet again grandma....we do love you.

Grandma Schroeder 8/26/1925 to 7/15/2011

2011-07-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

Grandma Schroeder passed away July 15, 2011. She was 84yrs old and was living in Washington Terrace at the time. She will be missed, but it was a good passing. Grandma is now with Grandpa, her sister who passed away when she was 5yrs old, parents and many family and friends she loved and longed to see again. Grandma will be buried in the Riverside Veterans Cemetary in Riverside California on Friday July 22, 2011 with her husband/grandpa David Kurt Schroeder. And small family graveside service will be held at 1pm that same day with granddaughter Staci Jacobs reading her favorite Hymn, Kristi reading her obituary, Kati giving opening prayer, Son Gary dedicating grave and daughter in law LuAnn closing prayer. Hopefully in attendance will by her sister Ellen Hensen and brother in law Herb, Neice Sherrie and her husband and her brother John Welch. Her other brother Jerry, younger sister Betty as well as parents and Husband preceded her in death. What a grand reunion it was when Grandma passed this life...in a struggle to not leave and move on...but to see her family again. Till we meet again Grandma Schroeder....we Love you.

I Love JULY!!!

2011-07-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

I Love JULY.....I Love the fact that July is REALLY Summer...I Love JULY because it's soooo patriotic.....I Love the Scouts hanging flags in my yard and how great it looks to have flags all over the neighborhood...Thanks Scouts!....I Love to Celebrate our Country.....I Love to be reminded that we live in the best Country EVER....I Love the USA....I Love ALL those Military men/women and their families who have sacrificed so much for me to LOVE THIS COUNTRY! It makes me so excited to have these wonderful Holidays in JULY....the 4th with all it's celebrating and fireworks....I LOVE Fireworks.....and parades and watching families....watching the looks on childrens faces on the parade route....the excitment...the cotton candy and snowcones all over their faces, hands and cloths....the SUN...the HEAT....the BARBQUE's....Rocky Mountain Speedways SOUNDS....

and the 24th of July....for those Pioneers who sacrificed EVERYTHING to come to Utah and make this a great State..I love the PARADE and all the excitment...handcarts...Trek...junk food at the parade...happy faces and tired people everywhere...the horses in the parade...I Love that the Gospel was established Here in UTAH and that I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints....I Love the Values and Principles it teaches me and that we can be Eternal Families FOREVER....I Love having a son on his MISSION teaching that gospel to those who want to hear ....it's a BEAUITFUL month!

I LOVE RED WHITE and BLUE....and Freedom! THANK YOU to EVERYONE who has made it possible for me to LOVE JULY!!!!!

Did we really decide to do that?

2011-06-07T08:04:00.001-07:00

One thing I can say for sure....never say NEVER! I have really learned that in the past, but of course I forgot...early on in our marriage I said I would NEVER have a station wagon...well shortly we inherited a small Ford Station Wagon, YUCK!, then I said I would NEVER have a white car...well we have had 2 white cars since, many times before I had kids I just knew I would NEVER do certain things when I had kids...hahaha that was a joke, what the heck...how could I EVER use my son's shirt to wipe his boggars off his face, or let a child cry throughout the store just so I could finish what I had come for, or bribe my children to make peace...etc etc...well, it has happened again...GEESH! I said we would NEVER EVER move from our home of 25yrs..that we would stay forever and ever...well, time to eat my words again! WE have our home on the market and boy did we pick an awkward market to put it on...but yes, the time is now to move on. We need a rambler type home that is large enough for whoever is living with us....including my mom whom we will move in as soon as we move. The stairs are just too hard on her now so we really need something different. We have had one offer that was an FHA loan involved, but it required us to drop our price $10,000! Their initial offer was $5,000 less than we were asking and with the FHA loan we would have to pay their closing costs which would be around $5,000...not good, so we countered...We are kind of thinking they aren't going for our counter since we haven't heard from their realtor for several days...they seem to be ignoring our realtor...I'm sure it's a pass but that's ok...they also wanted our stove which is brand new and our refrigerator...can you say they wanted everything for nothing...yup! Love this economy, but since we are not in a rush to sell, we are not going for that offer...anyway again we won't say NEVER because we may end up taking one similar if it gets to that point just not so soon, we are also having trouble finding something to buy that isn't in short sale or bank owned....wow, we did pick a good time to finally do something we thought we would never do...but I just feel it's the time and that said, I also know it will happen when it is supposed to and we will find our home that we can live in forever and bring mom into as well. I have to have a clean home all the time just in case...that's a nice perk.....anyway....advise I give to all NEVER SAY NEVER!!!

Through the eyes of a Mom.....and Grandma....

2011-05-08T07:47:00.001-07:00

I have been reading everyone's thoughts about Mother's......what a nice day for us all to stop and reflect on all the mother's in our lives.......here are a few of my thoughts...kind of cheezy and lame, but these are things I've been thinking about lately....

#1 It is darn hard to be a mom!!!! Can I put that any clearer. The pregnancy, birth
then allllll the responsibility that NEVER goes away! GEESH! But, through it all, I
would NEVER trade a moment of my experience of being a mom and a grandma....

Here are the reasons I LOVE being a mom.......
**4 of the most WONDERFUL and SPECIAL kids in the entire world!
honestly, there is never a dull moment in our home. Because of
these kids, I have grown as a person so much and learn something
every day. The times we laugh so hard....it's bathroom time....
the times we cry so hard you think the pain will never go away...
but through it all...through all these experiences, we are being
molded into the people we are now.

**Waking up every morning to get kids ready for school..making
sure everyone is dressed, lunches packed, backpacks on and the bus
is made....I especially loved Summer's and Day's off from school
I loved having my kids home around me more than anything.....
(I hated homework)

**Loved going on excursions with the kids...we always seemed to come
up with something to do from grabbing Staci out of school and hauling
all 4 kids including a 6wk old son to the airport to see the 1st
Pres Bush land in SLC....to trips camping in our HUGE family tent!

**Our vacations...they were "Schroeder Adventures" for sure...something
ALWAYS seemed to go wrong...from multiple skunks in the camp ground forcing
us to hide out in our tent all evening...to doors breaking on the van
in Anaheim.....to "someone" we all love riding her bike out of control
heading towards the rushing river....to LIGHTENING hitting the ground
in front of the cabin creating HUGH thunder and blue light...flat tires,
trailer carrying our stuff breaking down....running out of gas in the
boat and the girls getting stuck in "quick sand" trying to get help...
hiking into back country only to find out mountain lions are watching us...
need I go on...hahaha...but we are "Schroeder Vacation Survivors" and they
are not over.....stay tuned!

**With those 4 wonderful kids, there are a lot of hard challenging times,
some we made it through with a few "bumps and bruises" and some we are
still working on making it through...through these times, as hard as they
are...I see the Lord's hand in EVERYTHING...and I am in aww at how
courageous and strong my kids are...how they move forward through their
challenges...with all the Faith they need to take the next step in their
lives....oh, through all the tears and TIGHT hugs, we have all been able
to move forward...it's the LOVE we share that helps, and the fact that
each of my kids have the courage to do what they know they should no matter
how hard it is at the time...they are my true HERO's.

**Then, the icing on the cake with all of this is being Max's grandma. I
LOVE that little man so much and it's such an honor to be his grandma...and
watching Staci be his mom...she is such a great mom...it makes me proud...
Oh how I love being a Mom and a Grandma....I love my family in such a big
way, I am so greatful for the experience I have had so far, and am so
so excited and anxious for ALL the experiences to come.....thanks to my
Mother and Grandmother for all they did for me and the love they have
shown and taught me through out my life..........

Another great reason for this day....I get to talk on the phone to my missionary
son whom I haven't seen for exactly 5 eternal months....I can't wait!

**MOTHER'S are the BEST!

Update...our dog Shado....

2011-04-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

Well....it's been a while since I update about our little 4 legged member of the family. Shado...yes, still a bit on the non-trusting side, but getting much better every day. He is a beautiful dog, loves to play outside and run in the yard (when it's good weather of course) sleeps at the foot of our bed, loves to be cuddly when he is in control..meaning, if you want him to be cuddly he won't and will shy away...still afraid of being "called" to your side which probably means the people who abused him probably would call him in a sweet nice tone, then when he came to them they would inflict the abuse....I wish so much I could confront these HORRIBLE people...unfortunately, they are still out there abusing more innocent animals..it's sad.

We take Shado and Jack to the groomers together for their nails, grooming and brushing their teeth..usually you kind of drag Shado into the groomers .. if you can imagine, picture this...you drag on his leash with a stream of pee behind..sorry, he lays down and won't stand...terrified of what might happen to him...but since he has been to the groomers several times (and he gets the right groomer..they all know him, but some are better than others)you can see a change in him each time. Last saturday he actually WALKED out of the groomers...on his leash....looking a bit cautious, but walking non the less....woot woot! Kati and I decided to see if he would still walk on his leash so we were courageous and walked him and Jack to West Valley Elementary...and YES, he walked all the way, on his leash, actually enjoying himself...amazing!!! Hi Five for Shado! This is such an accomplishment for him, and will be nice when we take him other places. He still won't venture down our stairs..he is still terrified of the stairs/basement (not quite sure which) we are sure he must of had a terrible experience with his previous owners, the abusers, in regards to the stairs etc..his Vet thinks the same. Anyway, things are looking up...he will be 2yrs old in July...the damage done was great for him to still have trouble at this point...I hate to think about it. Anyway, we love the little guy and patience is the key.

Heros........

2011-03-13T07:18:00.001-07:00

I was thinking about who are the heros in my life...you know, I could have all the same answers everyone else has and it would be accurate, there are so many heros in the world...people who help others especially in crisis...they are true heros... but I have 4 heros who are living, learning and teaching me something every day...my Heros are my kids...corny I know, but it is so true...there aren't 4 people right now that teach me more than these kids. They all face their own set trials, experiences and challenges.. they hurt, are afraid, feel alone, feel confusion, regret...all those feelings everyone of us go through but then they move on...they find a way to make it work and realise that the only solution to whatever they may be going through is to have Faith in our Father in Heaven, to do whatever He asks of them no matter what..they know that their set of trials are special for them and that they are never alone, really...that through their faith and growing strength they can make it through anything and they soon find that JOY again that is awaiting them and may be gone for just a fleeting moment during the times they are challenged. I'm really proud to be the mom of such "Super Heors" in my family...who are there for each other...who step it up whenever they are needed for family or friends....I'm their mom, but they are my teachers...I am grateful for them everyday...Thanks kids, for showing me the way!

What a weekend!!!!!

2011-02-27T06:43:00.000-08:00

This has been a weekend to remember and cherish. What and example of love, Eternal Families, the Gospel in action, the Atonement, why we are here on this earth and all the good things a family can be to each other. These last two weeks have been probably the hardest for our family to go through..we lost someone who has been a part of our family for over 2 years due to choices and decisions that were made in life which set a path of turmoil and personal destruction, but more than that, the choices made have effected so many other lives as well. We all have a choice to either do good or not...these choices aren't something that just effect our lives, but so many other lives that are linked to us who love us and want the very best for all of us. We hope and pray the outcome will someday be a happy one....as for now, it's time for the Schroeder's to move on with our family and lives. It is a time to continue to live in accordance to the gospel plan, the way our Father in Heaven would want us to do, so that those choices we make will bring us happiness and joy every day of our lives, and ultimately bring us back to Him as Eternal Families. With that said, after such a heartbreaking and sad couple of weeks, we have had a weekend that will be one to remember forever and that really says it all.....again, choices of others have determined a huge part of this weekend and it was full of the true meaning of Eternal Families in so many ways. 1st, my sweet aunt Eva Jane died last week and the viewing and funeral was Friday and Saturday. Also, as Utah weather goes, this was supposed to be a snow filled weekend with more than a foot of new snow in several locations from the south end to the north end...because there would be a lot of traveling involved this weekend, we have prayed that the weather would be good, that we could be safe and make it too those things that we needed to go to, truthfully, I did pray that the snow would hold off until next week! Of course, that didn't happen but what did happen was just as significant...we woke up to just skiff of snow at our house on Friday morning, it then snowed a bit during the day, and as we understand it Utah County did get a significantly larger amount that melted during the day so our travels to Springville to see family and pay respects to my Aunt were eventless to say the least...we had a great visit with family we haven't seen for years, we were able to share time with my uncle Leon at the loss of his "beautiful lady" as he called her that night...and make it home without any problems. We knew that the Taukinukufili's were on their way from Las Vegas and we wanted them to be safe and not have any problems with weather...it seemed to us that was going to happen...until just after midnight we looked out the window and the ground was snow covered! Yikes! We kept in contact with them throughout their travels and yes, they did encounter the great Utah weather about Lehi...they arrived safely though around 3am at which time the kids crashed anywhere they could and Kristi, Luana and I sat up talking until 5am...soooooo...downstairs we had sleeping Trevor, Max, Joe, Vaughn...upstairs Staci in Kati's room, Bryce, Gary and the 2 dogs, Luana, Sierra, Cheyenne, Kristi and me (Kati was spending the night at her friends house)...Woke up to several inches new snow the next morning, but the streets were essentially clear.....Saturday morning as events went...Gary took Grandma Bahr to the funeral and Kati met them there...I went to a friends civil wedding ceremony which was beautifully done by the way...saw many friends and work associates there, went grocery shopping for all the many people hanging out at our home hahaha....got back home to visit and enjoy eveyone then got ready to go to the Temple with Kristi...we arrived at the Jordan River Temple a little early which was fine, the "angels" at the Temple took us under their wing and made this experience for Kristi an extremely special day...everything went perfect for her (some family and friend had a little different experience being late etc..but it was all good)it couldn't have gone any better for Kristi for her first experience in the Temple. It was a mothers reward to see her beautiful daughter dressed in white making such a precious choice to receive her endowments and attend the temple...this was a day shared my those she loves and who loves her..the session was FULL, the largest session I have ever been on. (so was Leatherby's afterwards with our group of 25) I wish I could express in detail the joy and feelings of that experience, especially after such a hard previous week in our family...lets just say..the church is true and the blessings and joys of Eternal Families are priceless...good choices in life bring us that Joy while those wrong choices just don't, it has been so evident these past couple weeks...total opposite experiences...as I lay here in bed typing, Gary getting ready to go hometeaching, 13 people whom I love with all my heart are scattered throughout my tiny, 4 bedroom one bathroom house sleeping peacefully (and 2 dogs fighting on the bed next to me) my son on his mission who hopefully had a baptism yesterday they had planned to do (we won't know details until his pday tuesday) I can't help but think about the love our Savior has for us...what He did for us so that we can find THIS joy...This is what it's all about....the love of our family/friends...the peace we find in living lives that, yes we make mistakes, but that through the atonement we can repent and find Joy in all of this...I wish I could share all that I feel in my heart today...but more than that, my hope and prayer is that everyone will someday in their lives feel this great love and joy in their hearts as well...now I am hearing stirrings throughout the house...time to get up and start the day with 13 of my favorite people EVER!

Tribute to my Aunt...

2011-02-20T19:49:00.000-08:00

You know, sometimes we go through life and don't stop and think of those we love but don't have a lot of contact with....one is my sweet Aunt Eva Jane...Last Friday my aunt passed from this life to the next meeting up with my loving grandparents...grandmother and granddaddy...I have a lot of memories of my aunt...(we used to just call her Eva Jane)all really good memories. I remember going over to their house with mom....climbing their peach tree and picking peaches to take home, only, I LOVED peaches and would eat more than I would pick! They had the BEST peaches and they were really a treat. I remember she was little in stature, but strong willed in her personality, Faith and Belief. I remember we would always spend Christmas at Grandmother and Granddaddy's house, then we would go over to Bjarnson's to see their Christmas (which was always the best!) I remember spending time with them and sitting at their kitchen table that was in the corner of the kitchen by the window...(until they added on and made a really nice dinning room) I remember loving Eva Jane's cooking...it was the best. I loved her sweet laugh (or giggle) I loved the way she wanted us to be comfortable when we visited. I loved how clean their home always was..and it smelled so good. I will always appreciate and love her for sharing their backyard for my wedding luncheon. We brought the food, they provided the backyard...it was beautiful and I will always appreciate and love their help. I loved taking our kids to our family Christmas/Santa party in their family room. Each family eventually had to break off and have our own party when we got too big for their family room...and that was sad...but it was great while it lasted and my kids totally enjoyed themselves. I loved how in these last few years, when we would see Eva Jane and Leon, they were truly glad to see us...I felt their love. I remember taking mom to see Eva Jane in the hospital after her accident and how she just held onto my hand...she acted like she just didn't want to let go. I loved taking mom to visit Eva Jane and Leon last summer at their home...probably the last time she really remembered who we all were. This was a nice memorable visit and will cherish these memories. (she and my mom are the only sisters) I loved the fact that Diane, (my cousin) and I were able to get as many of the family together this summer as we could to celebrate the lives and birthdays of these two great women/sisters (their birthdays are close together) even though Eva Jane was having a hard time knowing who we all were, we knew who she was and that was actually the last time we had to see her. Our families don't really know each other, they have grown apart and have their own little families...that is sad...but because of this great women, we all have grown and have the love for her that her life deserved. I hope she can give Grandmother and Granddaddy a hug and kiss for me...Rest in Peace..your work is done here on earth. Thanks for the memories....

2011-01-22T09:44:00.000-08:00

Wow...a lot has happened since I last wrote....update...Dec 8th elder Rob went into the MTC....Dec 15th I had a Hysterectomy....Dec 28th Elder Rob left to his Kennewick Washington Mission...Jan 3rd started my new job as attendance secretary...(probably something I should have waited on since my recovery period is 6 weeks and it had only been 2 1/2 when I went back) It has been a long recovery and I don't suggest anyone ever doing it the way I have. Stick to the 6 weeks...I can now see the importance in that...my problem is I had to go back since it was a new job..and train my replacement as well. Things will all be ok, just need a little longer to recover due to it. It's been fun reading Elder Rob's letters and emails since he got to his mission. He is now in Hermisten Oregon, about 1/2 hr from Kennewick and loves his mission. I manage his finance's and I notice when he uses his debit card...hahahaha...he doesn't use it much, but occasionally they eat out or something at a fast food...LOL...my connection with my son right now. Sounds crazy, but I know he is doing good when I see them stop for a fun lunch once in a while. Two latest movies to watch are True Grit (of course never the same as good old John Wayne) and

Yogi Bear...haha...I liked them anyway. Back to work at the Genealogy Library...it's been fun working in the front lobby etc. I have found some information for a co-worker of mine about his father that he doesn't know and more names to take to the temple..which we better get doing soon! All in all...other than being ready, I mean REALLY ready for Spring...things are doing great at the Schroeder house!

LOTS OF JUST .... THINKING....

2011-01-04T22:22:00.000-08:00

It's late, everyone is in bed, where I should be but of course not able to sleep right now...I've just been thinking...things are going good here...everybody healthy (except a little recovery left on my part, and a cold for Gary) happy and content. Elder Rob is doing good, Staci and Trevor are doing good...(except maybe the little thing like her wallet getting taken from her car at the gym tonight)minor little bumps in the road...then I hear about a dear friend of mine...one who I used to be such great friends with growing up...ya know...thick and thin...that kind of stuff...one with whom recently, thanks to facebook, we have been able to reconnect and have some great girls afternoons out talking and laughing with another great friend, again rekindled friendship through facebook....I learned, through her daughter that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer....first stages so there will be a lumpectomy and some radiation involved....but a definite bump in her road....just worried about her and thinking...something new to add to my prayers...something new for her and her family to face....breast cancer..such a nasty invasive disease that intrudes on a world of women who don't deserve it, but who teach us what life is all about....hang in there Diana...you are one of the strong women of this world...and you can conquer this intruder as you have others.......

Out with 2010......In with 2011!

2010-12-31T10:27:00.000-08:00

Wow! 2010 was a busy but great year! Just a few things, Trevor graduated which enabled them to move out of Breon and Shirlene's house!!! It was so nice to have the kids live in their home with them while Trevor went to school, but it was difficult at best for everyone involved...it always is. I know Trevor and Staci are grateful for all Breon did for them and will always be grateful, but it is just nice to have their own little apartment where they can be their own little family. They even changed their traditions this year for Christmas and had it at their own apartment with a beautiful big live Christmas Tree....I know this is something that every family needs ... traditions need to be created and passed on....they really had fun...we went up in the afternoon, took good food, opened presents and went to the movie Narnia...Max really seemed to enjoy himself. Another thing that happened in 2010, Kristi lost her job! Dang! She tried to find a job in Logan, she really loved living there with her roommates, but there just weren't any jobs to find...so to her dismay, but to our happiness, Kristi moved back home and immediately got another job, close by but that she really didn't like much...guess what? You guessed, she was layed off from that job..oh darn...she is now working for another company getting paid a lot more and this time I think is more stable. Kristi would love to move out again with roommates...but until that time comes, we are just happy to have her home. (One day she'll be gone for good on her own..these times are precious to me) Kristi is attending our newly formed singles ward in our Stake and is Visiting Teacher Coordinator. Kati started cosmetology school at SLCC and really loving it...she cuts all our hair right now...what a bonus for us! I think she will really enjoy doing this..and she is really good (that helps) She is still dating Ben...don't ask, we don't know hahahah...Then there is Rob...he left on his mission December 8th and is now in the Washington Kennewick Mission! It was a struggle at first for him...homesick, but he called yesterday and he is doing great! I had surgery, Hysterectomy, Dec 15th Ouch! I am in recovery mode and hoping it happens sooner than later...just not patient! I'm feeling pretty good. Gary is still working at Gustave Larsen and missing his son...they had a great opportunity to spend a lot of time together and I'm sure this is quite a void in both their lives right now...he follows his map that he bought to keep up with Elder Rob. I start my new job on Monday! I now have my own office and am responsible for the attendance of all the students at Kearns High (among other things...lots of other things) And I will be teaching Jessica Lokini the ropes of my old job as soon as monday hits! Kristi and I were doing jazzercize before my surgery, I hope to get back into it after I can...I loved it..of course, eat better, more sleep, try a little harder to be a little nicer etc etc etc....let's just have a great 2011!!! Good by 2010!!

Christmas Eve 2010.........

2010-12-24T17:08:00.000-08:00

So much for us to be grateful for because of the birth of our Savior and His atonement for us....our Love and appreciation for Him grows every day. I am so grateful for the knowledge that I have of this great man and his sacrifice for me and my family. I love this time of year and the reminders that it brings to me....I still love the excitement and fun that goes along with this Holiday...the joy and fun in a child's eyes waiting for Santa to come and deliver gifts at their house...I think there is room for being grateful for the birth of our Savior and the excitement that comes with this time of year...family time and smiles everywhere. Staying away from the commercialization, remembering why we celebrate this time of year, and enjoying the fun and excitement with family and friends...it's just a wonderful time of the year.....

Recovery.......

2010-12-19T10:29:00.001-08:00

So just an update...day 4 after surgery...."OUCH" I realize I have a long road ahead of me, but at least I'm on the road to recovery....thanks wonderful family and friends...lots of help and yummy dinners from Emily and Jean, Sally and DeAnna...you guys are great....rest, rest, rest.....that's my life right now...I will obey...hahaha

2010-12-17T19:20:00.000-08:00

Well...I did it...I had a hysterectomy with A/P repair.......geezzz....never thought I would have this surgery! I was up at the University of Utah Hospital.....had my surgery on Wednesday then came home on Friday....Great service and staff..they were all incredible and I appreciated what they did for me. Staci and Max brought me home around 1pm...and home is nice....still in lots of pain and whew..am I tired, this has shown me I am not the Super Woman I thought I was....this time the surgery kicked my butt!! LOL Oh well....6 weeks to recovery then I will be as good as new doing everything I can for everyone around me.....'cause that's what I do...

Ouch!

2010-12-14T21:26:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I will be having a little surgery....I really hate hospitals, but I promise to be good....Cya in a couple days.....

Dinner???????

2010-12-13T16:06:00.000-08:00

Yummmm...Pizza! That is dinner tonight...little Cesar's and that will give me wrapping time! Yes!

Getting closer.......

2010-12-13T05:36:00.000-08:00

Wow! Time is flying by....I have today to finish up anything I need to finish for Christmas...you see, I am having some surgery on Wednesday and will be recovering for the Holidays....yes, pretty dumb but it works since I already have the time off...so, work today, then some shopping..finish getting Rob a box for Christmas and send his bedding to Kennewick, they will hold onto it at the mission home for him....cleaning whatever I need to finish up before I really can't clean....Tuesday a party at work, then sending out boxes for Rob, then our Mission...CRAZY BUSY time...we'll get through this....Christmas is going to be simple and quiet this year and that's ok....Our plans have been made....we will have a Christmas Eve dinner with just the few of us....(Staci, Trevor and Max are spending Christmas Eve with Grandma Jana)...then sleep in on Christmas morning...a special breakfast, open few gifts then off to Ogden around noon time to spend the afternoon with Max opening gifts and a movie. Just a quiet time and I'm ok with it this year...I don't even know if I will be able to get any neighborhood gifts or Christmas cards out this year....I just can't worry about all the extra things this year...most of my time was getting Rob ready for his mission, and now my surgery....CRAZY BUSY!!! That's just how we roll........

I just started Christmas shopping!!!

2010-12-10T16:10:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...a lot of you are DONE with your shopping...but not me! I just started today LOL. I decided I'm running out of time and I better hurry up! I had the responsibility of buying our Administration their gifts so I went to Tai Pan trading and put together a cute bucket with candy, popcorn and movie tickets...I have half the stuff I need for my aids in the office to complete their gifts, and now I can say I have something for everyone at least...not finished by any means but maybe I will do that tomorrow...in the cold snow...yuck! I'm excited for Christmas though it is going to be a strange one this year. Trevor, Staci and Max are going to stay at their home for Santa to come this year...that should be fun for Max...so, we are going to sleep in, wake up and open our few gifts, pick up grandma Bahr then go to Ogden. After Max and Trevor and Staci open their gifts then we are going to a movie! Weird Christmas, but I'm looking forward to it....I get to have a little surgery on the 15th, so I will still be recovering anyway...take it easy and keep it simple is my philosophy. We already had a little Christmas with Rob before he left and I am sending him a small box to open up...oh, of course, we will be sending him a care package from dearelder.com too. I'm not sure about neighborhood gifts and Christmas cards this year...we will just see how I feel...ya know, take it easy and keep it simple....I do hope everybody has a wonderful Holiday season....I am so grateful for Christ and the fact that he came to this earth for us to be our Savior...so many reasons why Christmas is a Wonderful time of the year...especially celebrating His birth. Merry Christmas to all of you! We love you and hope the best for you all.............

Very, very nice day yesterday.... inspite of it all.......

2010-11-29T17:18:00.000-08:00

Ya know, this has been an interesting week to say the least....it started with a lot of "good intentions" and expectations....and ended with tons of love and blessings from family and friends who we love and cherish, but this was not without a snag here and there...Saturday we had the best experience with Rob in the Bountiful Temple...what a beautiful experience..then dinner and a storm...haha...the storm actually stranded Staci and Trevor in West Valley (which we totally love sleepovers)... Sunday we woke up with about 10 inches of newly fallen beautiful Snow. Next we heard the crackling sound of huge leafy tree branches falling down under the heavy snow..(not ours thank heavens)OOPS. Tues nigh was the night of the 2010 Utah Blizzard! This will go down in the Utah History books...not...Hahaha...they even called out emergency police/sheriff to cover the catastrophe....many of us, including myself stalked up on water bottles, foods that you could eat without electricity....(didn't have to do much due to food storage...bonus) checked our flashlights for batteries and hunkered down...well, we actually went to Village Inn first then Hunkered Down...yes, they also closed the Family History Library (our mission)..all that was heard the next morning was Blizzard??? Big Hype...no big deal...I, though, decided to pick up a nasty little bug from one of the Kearns High Darlins to remind me of what I should be Thankful for...HEALTH!! I am, I promise I am...now can I feel better? Anyway, then we had a great Thanksgiving with a wonderful family, good food and PIE!! I, of course, felt miserable and went to be early in hopes to get up 3am for Black Friday...nope...too sick! Kristi and I decided to wait, go around 9am and see if there was anything left...we did ok...surprised to know that there were a few things left, we were well rested and No Crowds..hmmmm....anyway..I did go to the Doc and was told, lungs clear (Xray)just take this cough medicine bla bla bla...I WANT AN ANTIBIOTIC..but no...oh well..home, took cough med...had a slight gallbladder attack...but I am Thankful for my HEALTH...remember..slept a long time...sat preparing for Rob's Farewell..cough *&spat**choke#$*cough...I'm ok...took another dose of cough medicine...had another small gallbladder attack...preparations continue with Staci and Trevor having another sleepover...fun times/helps...lots more preparations and then bed....Sunday...Rob's day..we woke up to..yes...another snow storm! Go figure! The meeting was spectacular! Sam Harper spoke (I couldn't have been happier since Rob has known Sam pretty much all his life)then we had the newly formed Missionary Choir which consisted of past/present/future missionaries singing Called to Serve...huge choir and they were beautiful (Gary, grandma and I sang too..)Loved it! Then Rob spoke and did an great job..much impressed with that Young Man...huge crowd in spite of the snow fall...people came from EVERYWHERE on the horrible roads...we felt so blessed and loved. Our home was FULL of people..they were EVERYWHERE...lots of food to go around and good conversation. We have the very best family and friends and I am Thankful for each and everyone of them and love them with all my heart...the Lord does bless us with good people to share our lives...we are a lucky people. Lots of emotions about Rob leaving. I'm going to miss him terribly, but I know he is doing what the Lord wants him to do...we concluded our meeting with God be with you 'till we Meet Again...of course the Schroeder's, (and I heard others)teared up through the entire song..no singing from our row hahaha)We ended the day with Tithing Settlement...how nice it was to sit in our Bishops office and declare a full tith..such a good feeling. Well, it snowed ALL DAY continually..I am not kidding! I couldn't tell you how much fell..somewhere between a foot to a bazoodle amount of snow fell throughout the night leaving us a huge mess to drive in to work! UGH!!!!! We all did great in our drive...I again maybe should of stayed home due to my feeling yucky, but decided I better take a dose of cough syrup and go and it was a good thing..(Trudy, our attendance secretary called in sick!) AHHHHHHH...so may kids STUCK/LATE...parents calling in kids either sick, stuck or just not going due to the weather....and to top it all off...around 8:30am it hit me with a vengeance....GALLBLADDER ATTACK!!!! It lasted about 2 1/2hrs!!! I was miserable and thought I was going to DIE!!! I turned white as a ghost and sweat profusely...my poor aid..cute 10th grader named Roy was so worried about me...I kept telling him I would be ok as soon as it passed...but he thought I needed to go to the hospital...he was so cute...I finally got over the severe pain, decided no more cough medicine for me..that seemed to trigger the attacks... and managed to finish the day with all the extra work! Whew...ok...what was I saying... oh ya..I am Thankful for MY HEALTH! I really am thankful for my health and know that even though all these things that I endured this week blessed out lives in one way or another...there is always a reason for everything and I never did feel alone at any time...just one of those times I had to endure...we are told we will have these times and we need to be strong and endure...this is so minor considering what our Savior Jesus Christ did for us...he endured so much and gave his life so we could, through our Repentance have Eternal Salvation...I wasn't asked to do much of anything this week though it seemed like so much and at times more than I could handle...it was just a reminder of the great and many blessings I have and I love Him for everything He has and will do for me.....Thanksgiving over, Christmas to come....These are my favorite times of the year.......

Life is sometimes full of so many changes.....

2010-10-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

Isn't it crazy how things change day after day....you never really know what to expect from one day to another....Kristi found this out today...last week one of the employees at her work was laid off...her boss called everybody in and reassured them that their jobs were secure and not to worry....well he lied of course and today Kristi and another girl were laid off....so the door closes on that job and experience, and of course will open on another job and opportunity....I actually really think things happen for a reason....not sure why or what this reason is, I do know Kristi was not happy working for this company (or boss) and would have probably stuck it out working somewhere she was not happy...but now is forced to move on and make different decisions...it will all be good, you watch..just a bump in the road of life...Trevor and Staci are doing better with Trevor getting a job that might just help him with his business endeavors for the future as well as give him experience in building a business...they found a great school for Max to attend that he loves....Kati is loving her schooling learning all about hair and everything it takes to cut, curl, etc etc...as well as her job seems to be working out so that she can advance....Rob has had set backs but they also seem to be something he needed to prepare better for his mission..looking forward to taking out his endowments soon and having the opportunity to attend to Temple several times before he leaves...also, his old boss hired him back for the short couple months before he leaves....Gary and I are loving our new calling of a Service Mission in Genealogy, finding out and learning alot about our own families....on and on...a month ago was so different than this month and so on....these changes are and can be so good, sometime painful, sometime lots of tears fall...but I have noticed in my older age, that looking back at everything...I would not change a thing...the lessons we learn, the blessing we get from all our trials and challenges are worth so much....I am very grateful for everything in my life...because it is my life.

Where do I find time???????

2010-09-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

Geezzz! Does it sometimes feel like there just isn't enough time in the day to get things done??? Sometimes I want more time in the day, then I figure that still won't help...I just need to step back and bReAtH a little!!! Anyway, a month ago we decided that since we have soooo many people at our house at any given time, we should have enough sit down room for everybody! We just have a regular couch and a lounge chair...not enough butt space...at times some of us had to sit on the floor! Well, we found a really nice sectional and bought it! I really love it and yes, it does provide more butt space for all! (problem is now some of us like to lay on a portion of the couch because it's so comfortable! Hahahahaha) It took about 4 weeks to get it because it was a "special order"....you actually got to choose what material, color, color of the accent pillows, style of arms etc...that gave me time to think...hmmm..new couch...these boring white walls could use a touch of paint...so, yes, we painted the walls kind of a light creamy brown color with accent white boarders! I really like it a lot...just freshened everything up. We got the sectional and "filled" up our livingroom.....honestly, sectionals are big and we got a large automen made out of the same material as the couch....(it's very functional...it has storage space and we put our blankets in it)....now, new thing for the dogs....Yes, you guessed it....they have been banned from the couch! They have actually done pretty good. We got them both a doggy cushion to sleep on and they are good to lounge on that instead of the couch. Shado isn't the best with change but has actually done pretty good. I will post pic's soon...I'm on the wrong computer right now....It's been a fun transition to our little living room....

Sorry...these are pic's from my cell phone and they really aren't very good....but it really is nice and yes, more butt room!!! LOL

I'm soooooo exhausted!!!

2010-09-02T14:41:00.001-07:00

Can you relate???? It's just been a looonnnggg week! Hohum.....

Two sisters...and their posterity!

2010-08-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

My cousin Diane and I, through this great media of emails and facebook, came up with this little get together for these two ladies...they are both getting older and we needed everyone (as many as possible)to be together as a family...my pictures don't show it all, but My cousin Karen and her husband were there, Diane's family...kids and grandkids, Steven, my cousin, and his family made it... my brothers and their kids and grandkids were there as well as my family...we were missing some of the grandkids and their kids as well as my cousin Linda and her family...they are living in Arizona and were unable to be here....it was a great event.....everybody was in the park playing and having a great time...

Eva Jane and Dolores....two sisters!

Birthday party for both...Eva Jane turns 86 on Aug 19th and Dolores turns 82 on Aug 22nd.....Eva Jane is my aunt and Dolores my mom...two great ladies honored with as many family member as could come....

Balloon art for all the grandkids by Trevor .... that is always fun!
....we honor these two great women and love them! Happy Birthday!!!

WEST YELLOWSTONE!!!!!

2010-08-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

Once again, we went on our (turning out to be) annual trip to West Yellowstone! And, once again we had the time of our lives!! Our only drawback was Kati couldn't get the time off from work....we missed her a ton!!! But next year we are planning to schedule things better so we don't leave anyone out.....well that's the plan anyway!

We left Monday morning on our Ford Focus trip! Ha ha ha...we took our Ford Focus and Grandma Bahr's Focus

...4 people in each car (girl car and boy car hahaha) and it was actually perfect! Well.....until the last day, I will get to that later....

We had a great drive...one time we hit a bit of road construction in Idaho...but actually not too bad!

We, of course, stayed at the KOA outside West Yellowstone...our favorite place....we always get a Camping Kabin...sleeps 4 (and has a heater)
while the boys (Trevor, Rob and Max) slept in a tent next to us. It was a bit disconcerting this year since as soon as we checked in we were told..."THERE HAD BEEN A BEAR SITING IN THE CAMPGROUND" ummm....yeah, very aware this is bear country, but there has never been a siting before when we were there...YIKES!! She was sited monday and tuesday...probably more, (they were a little secretive about wednesday).....it was a Grissly and her cub and they apparently come into camp around 5am...JUST WHEN I NEED TO GO POTTY!!! We were somewhat close to the bathrooms, but ya never want to meet up with a mama bear while having a full bladder!!!!! Nice thing is everynight, all night, they had "Bear Patrol" out driving around the camp...hahaha...RARRRRR! Anyway, we never saw this cute little pair....THANK HEAVENS!

Grandma Bahr stayed at the Madison motel....(she wasn't much for KOA
camping especially with our little mascot....hey, she's 82!!! I think she would attack them with her cane!!!LOL)
Of course, got grandma settled then off to dinner at the 3Bears Restaurant...not my favorite dinner place, but it was ok...then it was the Playmill!!! Seven Brides for Seven Brothers!!! FABULOUS!!! What can I say!!....Then it was home to the kabin and tent and slumber land! (and no bear)Tuesday we went into Yellowstone....saw Old Faithful and shopped around....sadly we didn't see many animals this year! Boooo...I really love the animals...it's just funny, whenever there is an animal close to the road EVERYBODY stops, jumps out of cars to take pictures etc....crazy tourists hahaha!

We spent sometime in Yellowstone, then Kristi, Grandma, Max and I bought some groceries and spent the evening watching Max shows in grandma's room while the rest went to the Playmill to see The Foreigner....which, in fact, was another Fantastic Production!!!! Then again, home and off to slumber land with no Grissly in site, haha thank Heavens! Wednesday off into the Park again.. of course in the other direction...saw some fantastic falls, some animals and lots of ROAD CONSTRUCTION!!! Blaaaaa! It's everywhere even in Yellowstone!!! Then back to the KOA to rent some 6 seated bike thing....we drove this around all over and had a blast! Of course we looked a bit crazy, but so what.....we had a great time!

Grandma spent this time in her room with some needed rest time...thank heavens for her motel room. Then it was off to the Gusher Pizza place...This is a place we always hit during our stay...but, this time, not so good.....let's just say the customer service was BAD BAD BAD!!! Did I mention it was BAD!!! No more comment, just dissappointed in our Gusher experience this time around....Boooooo!!! Then walked the streets of West Yellowstone in and out of shops! I love to do the tourist shopping thing...makes the trip complete LOL!

After...we again ended our day with a Playmill experience of epic porportion!! Beauty and the Beast! FABULOUS, FANTASTIC, OUT OF THIS WORLD, STUNNING performance! I just love the Playmill (and of course their signature homemade Heidi Fudge! Fudge every night yummmmmm)! Grandma back to the Madison, us back to the KOA....another night to tempt the fate of the Grissly! Ewwwwww! Had a wonderful nights sleep...no Grissly siting at our kabin...yeah! But, even with our most perfect, fun, wonderful West Yellowstone experience....we ended with our Schroeder curse! Anytime we go on vacation....something happens to put a little damper on such a fun time. We thought we had overpowered this curse..maybe found a way to have a vacation without it...but, alas, no....it happened, the Schroeder curse!!!....we woke up to a FLAT TIRE!!!
(our tires were in pretty bad shape, but we thought we were ok for a while..hehehe..guess our first mistake was "thinking" hehehe)Well...the guys put on that little dinky tiny tire thing that comes with cars now days....ya know, the ones that look like your car has a peg leg driving down the street....and of course, you can't drive very fast due to the special needs of this little tire...so people get mad and start passing and you think they are being stupid because they almost cause accidents.etc etc....UGH!! Hahaha...and....since there really isn't any place to buy tires until Idaho Falls....that is where we went...to Walmart at Idaho Falls...hahaha...(couldn't find a Discount Tire)...oh well, anyway....new tires and it was off for home...dropped Kristi off in Logan, Trevor, Staci and Max in Ogden and Grandma in Taylorsville....we are now HOME!!!! Tired of course, but a good tired....I love WEST YELLOWSTONE and spending time with my family!!!

sniff sniff......hoo...humm....

2010-08-05T19:38:00.000-07:00

Ya know...that's just how I am feeling right now...contemplating so many things...lots of things going on in the Schroeder home...somewhat overwhelming to say the least. Just finished girls camp and really felt like it was a success...we have such wonderful young women in our ward...
Looking forward to Kristi's move home next week...though saddened by the fact that she is so sad about the move, and I totally understand why...being on her own has been so good for her, but I feel like she is doing this the Lord's way...which sometimes is a challenge but strength to do so....I really know this is something she needs and should do...it will all work out for her good. Then Kati is getting ready for school to start soon...that will be really good for her, but a bit on the overwhelming side as well since she is going to school and working full time...glad she's young! Whew! She'll do good though....she has so much energy and needs to keep on the go. Then Staci, Trevor and Max...lots of things going on in their little family...one being Max going to Kindergarten. They are kind of getting a late start on registration since they just moved, and they also hear horrible things about the school district they are living in...so they have decided to put Max in Weber School district...waiting on whether they are accepted though...if not, they have alternatives. Then getting Rob ready for his mission! Wow! So much to do....he leaves 6 wks from yesterday!!! It's going so fast....I will be somewhere and start thinking about him and of course start to cry....these are not tears of sadness...it's hard to explain...he's been my buddy for 19yrs.... now he gets to grow up without me...and that he will do! I won't have the influence on him as I always have...talks, errands, experiences etc.....my contact will be through prayers for him.....so they are not tears of sadness...mostly I already miss him...but I know this is where he is supposed to be, doing what he is supposed to be doing....he will make a great missionary and I am very proud of him...but yes, did I say I will miss him terribly! They grow up way too fast!!!

Now it's August......

2010-08-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

Wow! Last few weeks have really been busy with preparations for girls camp buying food, crafts, packing and going....it was really great though...only we had a ton of extra food...how does that happen??? I just think nobody really wants to eat much while camping, at least this year...of course, if we cut down on the food...we would probably run out and everyone would be hungry...UGH....happy medium! Anyway, I will add pictures soon...it really was a great girls camp and our girls were fantastic! Not a bit of drama...two wards and everybody got along...go figure that one LOL

August has hit!!! I was checking the calendar...oh my gosh is this going to be a busy month

**Rob and I have to pick up pants at Mr Mac's....and...I think we need to take back the ones he already has...they need to be tailored just a bit more...a bit big and riding a bike I am sure he will loose weight...better get them right now

**Temple recommend interview Tuesday night

**I have two 6 hour meetings Wed and Thurs this week, and Kristi coming home for a friends wedding...as well as bringing some of her boxes...I need to clean out her room again in preparation for her return home

**Going to take Grandma Bahr on Friday to get some valances for her windows

**Monday the 9th leaving for West Yellowstone until the 12th...very excited!!! As well as Rob's birthday on the 9th

**Saturday morning moving Kristi from Logan....
then off to Springville for a combined sister (my mom and aunt) Birthday Party (what a nice thing since my aunt is getting really bad right now)

**Rob takes out his endowments on the 21st in preparation for his mission

**Ben's birthday on the 20th

**School/Work starts on the 23rd..............and it goes on and on....this is going to be a busy month..I just hope we all survive!!! Hahah

Let the Month begin...........................

There's no place like home"

2010-07-22T22:11:00.000-07:00

That is our Stake Camp theme this year...."There's no place like home" with a Wizard of Oz twist....I have been called to be our ward's camp director this year....fun fun fun!!!

Our ward theme is "The lollipop girls"

Our girls have worked hard on their skit and we made camp decorations....they did a successful fundraiser...car wash and bake sale together....

They tie dyed their camp shirts....

I am looking forward to the camping part of all of this....planning and shopping are OVERRATED!!

4 more days....then....let the fun begin!!!!

Let the Shopping begin....................

2010-07-19T21:54:00.000-07:00

MR. MAC

Now this is a Missionary's New Found Friend!!!!
(Mom and Dad' too)

We really had a great shopping experience!!!

It was a good start................but there's more to do!

52 days to go.....on your mark....get set....and we're off!!!!

Elder Robert David Schroeder.........

2010-07-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

WOW! It really is real! Rob opened his mission call tonight and he has been sent to the Kennerick Washington Mission!! The really crazy thing is he is leaving in exactly 2 months from today! Holy Get This Done Fast Mission!!! He is really going............ready to serve those wonderful people in Washington and teach them the gospel....share his testimony and love for our Father in Heaven. This is going to be the "Best Two Years" for Elder Schroeder.....he will have 2 years of great experiences, challenges, up and downs, spiritual experiences, testimony builders, growing times and trying times....but all in all, he will be the best missionary for the people of Kennerick Washington...there is someone in Kennerick who is just waiting for him to teach them those eternal gospel principles so they too will have the blessings of Eternal Families.....how exciting is that...to know there is a reason he is being sent to Kennerick! My heart is so full right now! I really can't express how proud I am of him and his willingness to serve the Lord for the next 2 years....he is and has always been such a kind hearted young man...so caring and loving to everyone. He has been such a great example to me throughout his life. He is a hard worker and when given a task will complete it completely...he will really be missed at the Schroeder house for the next 2 years.

Max is struggling with this missionary thing.....he really doesn't want Rob to be gone for 2 years....it makes him really sad...but these are teaching moments for this little guy too....he is learning what and how important this mission is to Rob, that there are things we can do to support him and help him while he is on his mission....Max really loves his uncle Rob...they have had a really great relationship for the last 5 years of his little life....at times this mission will go fast and times it will seem like a lifetime, non-the-less, it will be a great 2 years and a blessing to our family.

Now, the really hard part is he leaves exactly 2 months from today!!!!! This is really the challenge...getting him ready! Some sisters in our ward are having a Missionary Open House for him..to help him get the things he will need to take with him...that will be a huge help....then, he is going to stop working about a month early so he will have time to prepare as well. Just a ton of things racing through my head right now....all in all, I am so grateful for this Gospel, for the many opportunities we all have to grow and strengthen our Testimonies, for these fine young men who are willing to put 2 years of their lives aside in serving others and sharing the gospel....for the many many others old and young who do the same..who spread the gospel and serve our Father in Heaven...I have learned there are so many ways to serve a mission...you don't always need to be a 19yr old young man....Gary and I have been called to a service mission in genealogy...we are waiting to hear and officially get our instructions.....the Gospel is True, I'm more and more grateful to our Savior Jesus Christ..for ALL he has done for us...for his consistent love and guidance in all we do....this will be a great 2 years....I am actually going to start a mission blog for Rob sometime this weekend..you are all invited to follow it...Love you Rob

I'm soooo excited!!!

2010-07-06T15:22:00.001-07:00

We actually have a nice back yard....actually, I love our yard! I go out and lay on the swing for hours at night just listening to all the "outside noises" and thinking....the smells are fabulous...neighbors cooking this and that....grilling and just burning wood....often it smells like we are in the mountains...and I LOVE the mountains and all the smells!!! So...Kati came home and said "Mom, go buy one of those portable fire pits...we can roast marshmallows and stuff" What a good idea! I checked into them and they are kind of pricey...something a family sending out a new missionary probably can't afford....but, we have an area open and away from foliage etc that would be a great spot for a pit......we built it for a fraction of the cost of a portable pit!!! Hurray!! Tonight we roast hot dogs and S'mores....in the fall, when it's cool at night, won't this be a fun thing...sitting around talking with family and friends....I love our new fire pit!

3rd, 4th, and 5th of July Festivities!!!

2010-07-03T23:37:00.000-07:00

Isn't this Holiday season the best??? Since the 4th falls on Sunday this year, we have the unique privilege of celebrating this wonderful Holiday for 3 whole days!! I just love that...we get to be reminded and pay tribute to our wonderful, beautiful country for extra days this year and what an honor that is! I know some are uncomfortable with not celebrating everything on Sunday, but I look at it this way, one day celebrating just isn't enough for me, having the extra couple days makes it all good. It's funny though, we attended the Magna parade this afternoon, shopped, cleaned up some of the garage then saw the Magna Fireworks (which were excellent as far as I'm concerned) we sat on the football field with several other high spirited families at Cyprus High.... everybody happy to be there! After the fireworks were done, everybody started clapping...then there was the grand "finale" so to speak someone sent off 1/2 dozen illegal fireworks from behind the bleachers LOL...they were really beautiful...Lol......then, fireworks done, we were off to the church on 6400 W and 2700 S to see the Rocky Mt speedway fireworks...got there just in time to spread out our blankets and they started!! Woot! Woot! The firework watchers there were a little more subdued...maybe tired from the day at hand...but both fireworks were really good. Now, as I type, it is 12:45am and some neighbor who lives close by is and has been setting off a stream of illegal fireworks ...for at least an hour! You got it...one solid hour....It amazes me how much these must cost! Our poor Jack the dog is just having a hard time with all the noise...he's not a real fan of these festivities...then there's shado...our other dog...sound asleep with not a care in the world...night and day these two. I hope they do run out of fireworks soon...a little hard to sleep with HUGE bangs throughout the night!

Then, about 10 min after Trevor and Staci left for home (midnight) she text me to tell me that they had already seen a drunk driver and to let Kati and Kristi know to be careful getting home...go figure...what a way to spoil such a great day...I hope these people get off the roads and sleep it off! How can it be fun to drink yourself into oblivion and then get behind the wheel of a powerful machine to endanger not only yourself but defenseless people out to have a great day...Selfish Cowards as far as I'm concerned...anyway...hope your holidays are fantastic and wonderful and let's remember what a great country we live in!!!!

I'm Proud to be an American!!!!!

Rob is going on a mission............

2010-06-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about this year...boy is it busy and life changing. Rob's mission papers were officially submitted last night. Wow! This is crazy...where has time gone?? Seems like just yesterday we had a HUGE surprise at having a boy! Dr Dinger's famous words "it's a boy!" Gary " a BOY!" we were so sure we were having our 4th daughter and ok with that...but what a nice surprise....cuddling with this little guy was amazing and knowing he would be our last meant something even more special..hard to put in words. He was such a joy growing up...loving every moment...struggling with him through challenges in elementary and scouts....enjoying watching him grow and learn in every aspect of life...watching him in aww as he encourages friends to read the Book of Mormon ... no pressure, but sharing a sweet testimony of this book and suggesting they read for themselves...watching him advance in his Priesthood...Rob has honored and performed his Priesthood duties with love, respect and honor ...you could always count on Rob to pass the sacrament as a deacon every Sunday dressed in white shirt and tie, get to church early to set up the sacrament table as a teacher as well as perform his duties without argument in going door to door to collect fast offerings, occasional sacrament taken to home bound members of our ward etc...these were things he knew he was expected to do and there was never a question as to his responsibilities to which he gladly did. I think one of those things where I really saw Rob grow was blessing the sacrament as a new Priest...this was somewhat of a challenge...he had his share of repeated blessings whether it be from nerves or just not reading the blessing completely, he just kept trying and trying until he finally overcame this particular challenge and would bless the sacrament with a love in his heart for this Priesthood responsibility. Rob was then ordained an Elder....wow...he now holds the Melchizedek Priesthood....our son has the same keys as his dad...this is amazing. He has helped with a couple blessings....still goes up and blesses the sacrament when he is needed and I can say, this is a young man who truly honors his Priesthood. Well, last night after a month of doctors visits, papers filled out and interviews his "papers" were officially sent in to the Apostles to look over and assign him a mission call....holy cow....my little boy will soon be out for 2 years serving the Lord and those people he will be assigned to teach! Have we really prepared him for this, does he have all the tools he will need to live on his own with a companion and be able to share his testimony and teach the gospel to others...will he be able to take care of his physical needs...ie cooking, cleaning etc....I know he has the laundry thing down pat....but how about shopping and preparing for those things he will need? What if he get's homesick or just sick....will he know to go to the Lord for assurance and help....does he pray and read his scriptures the way he needs to....what if he needs me...ugh!!! I know every mom goes through this...we just want to be available just in case, but we can't. I pray he will find "another son's mother" on his mission to maybe fill my shoes...maybe a meal occasionally...maybe some guidance and support....I'm feeling a few pieces of my heart flaking off right now...I know this is the best possible thing for Rob and those who he will teach...he is such a great young man...but I will miss him...I hurt for those family times he will miss out on for two years...we have been such a close family.....but through it all...feelings set aside....this is what he is supposed to do, I support him and love him dearly and put him and his life in the hands of our Lord to watch over him, keep him safe for these next 2 years... to guide him and strengthen him that he will be the tool....those hands that will spread the gospel to all the lands.....love you buddy!!

Sore...but smiling.....

2010-06-27T20:14:00.000-07:00

It was a very nice day yesterday....one of those productive Saturdays. We got up early and worked in the much needed yard....I weeded all the gardens (and there are alot!) I love flowers, so I made sure we had enough space for them in the front and back...only, we also grow a lot of crab grass and those viney weeds that like to invade the gardens...I worked hard but it's done and they look nice...today though, I am extremely sore! OUCH! I always use muscles I don't usually use and pay for it the next day...UGH....but when I look at the yard I am appreciative of the fact that I can get down, crawl around, dig and pull and do what it takes to make our yard pleasant and fun to be in....then..later in the evening Max came over while Staci and Trevor went to a play.....since it was Westfest, we took him to the fireworks!!!! He oooohhed and aahhed the entire night..he just loved the fireworks and was dissappointed when they were over....thank heavens there are more days of fireworks to come...don't you just love this time of year...it just makes me smile!!!

Sometimes words do hurt us.....................

2010-06-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Ya know the old saying our parents used to say to us....."sticks and stones can break our bones, but words will never hurt us" I have come to the conclusion they lied to us again......sticks and stones might just do that...if hit hard enough and in the right place they could just break our bones.....but those dang words.....they just often do hurt us even if we try not to let them....after all, we are all human, we have feelings....those words can cut to the bone and they are said just to do that......I will never understand why someone feels the need to be totally mean and uncaring to someone else.....they don't even know us...they don't know our situation nor do they know how much they affect how we feel. It would be so nice to just be toughed skinned...to not let others make us feel inferior or horrible....I especially hurt when things are directed towards someone I love dearly and who is such a good person with a heart of gold towards others......it seems so unfair....going through challenges, trying so hard to overcome so many things just to be 'slapped in the face' so to speak with painful words that tare at your heart.....I just wish people would be more caring and considerate towards others....and that I guess we need some of that thick skin so we can handle others who think they are themselves so perfect they have room to hurt us......I'm really tired of it, ya know....just saying

Fun Day with family and friends!!!!

2010-06-24T06:28:00.000-07:00

We had such a FUN day yesterday!!! Our friends from Las Vegas came for a week long visit....they have been on the go visiting and enjoying their vacation....yesterday we all went to Staci's apartment in North Ogden to go swimming, lunch and have pedicures...what a fun day this was!

finished product!!!

Swimming was great....Tara (Staci and Trevor's cousin's wife) Lincoln and Oliver came over to swim with the kids....they all had such a good time.....little sunburning but otherwise "sweet!"

So.....Where do you think Rob will go on his mission?

2010-06-15T21:43:00.000-07:00

Dear friends and family! as some of you know, Rob finished his portion of his mission papers! YAY! He and I decided to have a contest. All family and friends are invited to join in on a fun contest to guess where he will go on his mission, whether it be Country or a state. Whoever gets the correct place will be able to come with our family too Leatherby's! YUMMMMM... Rules!

1. Only up three people can choose the same country OR state.
2. if three people already have chosen you unfortunately have to choose again. We will keep everyone updated.....

Moving Day........

2010-06-06T07:23:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was moving day for Trevor, Staci and Max!!! They found a real nice 3 bedroom apartment that has a playground and swimming pool ... close to just about any store you would want, with a view of the majestic mountains that are totally breathtaking in my words! Yes, a 14hr day in North Ogden!!! Whew!! I hope to never see this many stairs again!!! The move out of where they were living had stairs, the move to their apartment had stairs (2nd level)...let's just say, I'm tired of stairs...(on a positive note, we didn't have to move a piano .... that's a first!!!) Everybody helped...Kristi, Kati, Rob, Dad and me....then Trevor's cousins Josh and Tara with their cute little boys, and his Aunt Sherry came...(Sherry was soooo nice and bought everybody pizza and drinks!!!) It was a lloonngg day. We got them moved and their other place cleaned..whoot whoot! ...such a nice place.................now to empty the boxes....

Memorial Day.....................

2010-05-31T06:25:00.000-07:00

God Bless America....and all those men and women who have sacrificed to keep us Free! WE LOVE & HONOR YOU and your families!!!

ouch!!!!

2010-05-19T17:54:00.000-07:00

Oh my aching head!!!! I woke up with this AWFUL little pain in my head this morning and it has just continuously gotten worse throughout the day!!! Yes, I did go to Zumba this morning (Cher kicked my butt!!) and then to work...which we were treated to a luncheon to thank us for a great year.....and no, I couldn't eat!! Sick to my stomach!!

Ahhh haaaa....(sigh) I think I am having withdrawals from caffeine....I have gone about 4 days ... minus my Diet Dr Pepper ...... and wala....here's what I get to pay for it.....I guess this just can't be "cold turkey"...... UGH!!!

Oh, side note......I did get official notice.....my hours as Guidance Counseling Secretary have remained the same!!! Hurray!!! I can't thank whoever involved more! This helps since Rob is just getting ready to send in his papers....need the $$$ to pay for his mission....whew!!! That was a bit of a scare.....now I'm happy!

5K.......

2010-05-13T22:33:00.001-07:00

Proof of our race for the cure!

**Ben and Kati of course ran

**Staci, Kristi and I walked....(which we did it in good time...we were 10 min behind the runners).....

**what a fun day...

**next year we create a team!

**Yes, we are planning on this every year we can...so worth it!

Kati and Max's Auntie and Nephew date...............

2010-05-13T22:21:00.000-07:00

Kati got tickets to the Bees game...she took her favorite nephew...MAX! He had a blast, and ate everything in site!!! Goodness!!! Fun times to remember...Max is a lucky little boy with Aunts and Uncles who adore him......LOL

Mother's Day 2010!

2010-05-09T06:42:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all those wonderful Mother's in my life! You are the best Mother's ever and I admire everything you do.....this includes my Mom Dolores Bahr, Grandmother Dolly Smith, Daughter Staci, daughters Kristi and Kati who will one day be mothers, mother in law, sister in law, Aunts, nieces, neighbors and friends....I hope this day brings Love, Joy and Peace to you. It is a great responsibility to be a mother....to teach nurture and guide His precious little children....

President Gordon B. Hinckley said: “I remind mothers everywhere of the sanctity of your calling. No other can adequately take your place. No responsibility is greater, no obligation more binding than that you rear in love and peace and integrity those whom you have brought into the world”

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said: “Yours is the grand tradition of Eve, the mother of all the human family, the one who understood that she and Adam had to fall in order that ‘men [and women] might be’ [2 Nephi 2:25] and that there would be joy. Yours is the grand tradition of Sarah and Rebekah and Rachel, without whom there could not have been those magnificent patriarchal promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob which bless us all. Yours is the grand tradition of Lois and Eunice [see 2 Timothy 1:5] and the mothers of the 2,000 stripling warriors. Yours is the grand tradition of Mary, chosen and foreordained from before this world was, to conceive, carry, and bear the Son of God Himself. We thank all of you, including our own mothers, and tell you there is nothing more important in this world than participating so directly in the work and glory of God, in bringing to pass the mortality and earthly life of His daughters and sons, so that immortality and eternal life can come in those celestial realms on high”

You are all Beautiful!!!!!

To the Mothers in Zion

President Ezra Taft Benson
13th President of the Church

Mothers in Zion, your God-given roles are so vital to your own exaltation and to the salvation and exaltation of your family. A child needs a mother more than all the things money can buy. Spending time with your children is the greatest gift of all.

With love in my heart for the mothers in Zion, I would now like to suggest ten specific ways our mothers may spend effective time with their children.

Be at the Crossroads. First, take time to always be at the crossroads when your children are either coming or going—when they leave and return from school, when they leave and return from dates, when they bring friends home. Be there at the crossroads whether your children are six or sixteen.

Be a Real Friend. Second, mothers, take time to be a real friend to your children. Listen to your children, really listen. Talk with them, laugh and joke with them, sing with them, play with them, cry with them, hug them, honestly praise them.

Read to Your Children. Third, mothers, take time to read to your children. Starting from the cradle, read to your sons and daughters.

Pray with Your Children. Fourth, take time to pray with your children. Family prayers, under the direction of the father, should be held morning and night. Have your children feel of your faith as you call down the blessings of heaven upon them.

Have Weekly Home Evenings. Fifth, take time to have a meaningful weekly home evening. With your husband presiding, participate in a spiritual and an uplifting home evening each week. Have your children actively involved. Teach them correct principles. Make this one of your great family traditions.

Be Together at Mealtimes. Sixth, take time to be together at mealtimes as often as possible. This is a challenge as the children get older and lives get busier.

Read Scriptures Daily. Seventh, take time daily to read the scriptures together as a family. Individual scripture reading is important, but family scripture reading is vital.

Do Things as a Family. Eighth, take time to do things together as a family. Make family outings and picnics and birthday celebrations and trips special times and memory builders.

Teach Your Children. Ninth, mothers, take time to teach your children. Catch the teaching moments. This can be done anytime during the day—at mealtime, in casual settings, or at special sit-down times together, at the foot of the bed at the end of the day, or during an early morning walk together. Teach children gospel principles. Teach your sons and daughters modesty, and teach them to respect manhood and womanhood. Teach your children sexual purity, proper dating standards, temple marriage, missionary service, and the importance of accepting and magnifying Church callings. Teach them a love for work and the value of a good education.Teach them the importance of the right kind of entertainment, including appropriate movies and videos and music and books and magazines. Yes, mothers, teach your children the gospel in your own home, at your own fireside. This is the most effective teaching that your children will ever receive. Mothers, this kind of heavenly, motherly teaching takes time—lots of time. It cannot be done effectively part-time. It must be done all the time in order to save and exalt your children. This is your divine calling.

Mother's truly Love your children. A mother's unqualified love approaches Christlike love.

Susan G. Komen.....Race for the Cure!!!

2010-05-08T17:58:00.001-07:00

Well....I did it!!! With my stupid neuroma and all!!! It was really fun and there were so many people supporting this cause. I think we were in the top third of those finishing...we really did pretty good. I will post some pictures as soon as I download them...I wore my shirt all day just because I earned it LOL....anyway it was fun.............

hmmmmmm........

2010-05-03T20:10:00.000-07:00

Ya know....it seems like there is always something going through my head, about someone I love and care about. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family...I sometimes wonder how I was so lucky to have been so blessed...I think about my kids including my son-in-law and son-in-laws to someday be....where they were 1, 5 or 10 years ago and where they are now...they are such great examples to me....they each have a strength and will that helps them accomplish those things that may be hard and tough in their lives....though some things may be a challenge to them and a struggle in their lives, they seem to find an inner strength that pulls them through and I feel that I learn and grow right along with them...they are such an example to me every day. I feel so lucky to be a part of their lives...to be their confidant, to be able to listen to their concerns, joys, pains, challenges and testimonies.....I think because they are so strong, there are times they are tried and tested to what they think is their limit...but again...they dig deep and pull it through..each one has challenges unique to them...to test and try them in their own personal growth, and I see them grow and become people that the Lord wants them to be....

I adore my grandson and the love he brings to our home. He is the light of our lives so often and is so full of any amount of energy ever possible....this, too proves to me that the Lord has saved the most valiant to come into this world with all the energy they need to succeed in every bit of their challenges..trials and tests they are to face....this world is really wicked for the most part...I see it and hear about it more and more everyday...there are so many people who want to hurt others for no reason and are following satan in all his worldly ways to make others afraid and offended....

It seems this day and age we need to be stronger...tougher...we are all pushed more and more to become those people that will be able to continue with the Lords plan....as hard as it seems... it is important for each of us to endure to the end....

It's been fun getting Rob ready for his mission. We have been filling out missionary papers online, dentist appointments and, yes, Physical Exams....(haha..not the funnest thing) We still need pictures...wisdom teeth out on May 14th, Patriarchal Blessing this Thursday....etc etc...we have challenged anybody who wants to read the Book of Mormon with us...see how far we get individually before he gets his call....that will be fun...then we'll have an Ice Cream party in our back yard for anybody who wants....anything for a party hahahaha....

Gary and I have been teaching the Marriage and Family Relations class ... we are on the family part of the lessons right now...what a blessing this calling is for us....it's been such a great thing to be reminded about how we need to raise our families to be strong in the gospel. We have some really great people taking our class and it's made it fun to teach.

I love The Family A Proclamation to the World.. I love the prophets and their guidance to us and those things that help us be better parents. I encourage everyone to read this proclamation...to hang it where it will be read often as a reminder of the things we need to know as families in the gospel....what a blessing the Lord has given us ..... we certainly are loved by our Heavenly Father...he wants nothing but the very best for our families. I am so grateful for Him and His blessing in our lives. I have such a testimony of this Gospel, the Love of our Heavenly Father for all of us no matter the mistakes we make...through the atonement he has made it possible for us to be forgiven and we all have the opportunity to repent of any mistakes we make......I feel His love continually and am so grateful to Him for His guidance and Love......

School is almost out!!!! Hurray!!!!!

2010-04-28T20:37:00.000-07:00

As of today, there are 26 school days left this year!!! That means a job free summer for me! At first, I thought it would be hard not having my income for those couple months, but I am really looking forward to the break....it will be worth it 'cause I have plenty to do and catch up on. Had a bit of a scare yesterday though...it was secretaries day last week...my counselors and college guy gave us a plant/flowers and a card...so sweet....Brett over CTE gave us a $25 gift card to a Cracker Barrel, then yesterday our administration sent us to lunch at Iggy's and gave us more flowers!! During lunch, our Admin secretary told me in front of all that she heard from our principle that everybody with 30hr/wk were going to be cut down to 19hr/wk's!! Holy Cow! That was random and a punch in the face! I had talked earlier to my boss about this very subject and was assured that because our pay comes from a completely different budget that we would be just fine...hmmmm....somebody got it wrong. I stewed over this all night not knowing the outcome, but I kept reminding myself that my boss would certainly tell me if there were changes...then I got a bit angry...how dare our admin secretary...she didn't have all the facts so why did she decide to spread rummors about something as important and life altering as this! Why do people put their noses in places they don't belong? Anyway, when I got to work today...long story short....I have been once again assured...my job will not be involved in the hour cut...I will be just fine! WHEW! I have a missionary to support, I can't afford to cut my hours right now...and I won't have too...Yeah!!! I guess moral to this story is....don't pass along information without facts, most importantly keep your nose where it belongs! Rumors can be painful and scary especially if you don't have the correct facts......this will save on sleepless nights anyway! Anyway, I really love my job, the people I work with and the hours I have! I'll be good for another year....Hurray for Kearns High Cougars!!!

Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, 5K..............

2010-04-17T21:24:00.000-07:00

Soooo....this is Kati's and my Wednesday mornings.....5:30am Zumba....work....5pm Yoga! I really love Wednesdays and wish I could afford this to be an everyday routine! Last week Cher (our instructor for both, and a friend of mine) upped our Yoga to sort of a Power Yoga....and added some Pilates to it! OUCH! My core felt that work out for sure, but I really loved it, as hard as it was.

Now, another fun activity to add to the routine! Kati and Ben are going to run the 5K for Breast Cancer awareness....Kristi, Staci and I are going to walk the 5K......and.....Gary and I just found out Weight Watcher is sponsering a 5K to be held on June 5th...yes, we are going to walk that too! I'm excited. We are going to start walking after work during the week in preparation for this....this should be lots of fun....I will never run a 5K ever....I HATE running! I used to run when I lived in Cali and even ran a 5K on the beach years ago....NEVER again! Walking is good....

I went shopping for a good pair of shoes.....I have REALLY bad feet...I have had surgery on both sides of both my feet in the past and now have neuroma's under my 2nd toes...which can be extremely painful at times....after my surgery my doctor suggested I buy New Balance as the shoe for me to recover in...really good shoe so I decided to try it again.....hopefully it works!
Oh, we are still loosing slowly but surely...another .4lbs for me, but of course, Gary lost 4lbs ... UGH!!! Anyway it's a loss and not a gain....I'll take it!

Ouch! But it's worth it.....

2010-04-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, so yesterday we took advantage of that BEAUTIFUL saturday and worked in the yard pretty much all day...and was it a MESS!!!! With 2 rambunctious dogs, leftover old apples from the apple tree, twigs from the trees and over grown weed infested flower gardens...let's just say we had our jobs cut out for us...........

Back yard, 2 dogs, winter months....."this picture speaks a thousand words"

Maybe a little exaggeration ....well, maybe a lot but it sure felt like this mess!

Three very important tools of the day....

We PAINTED the shed and the front fences......

and now.....OH MY ACHING.......EVERYTHING!!!!

Birthdays, Easter, Spring Break and Mission preparation......UGH!

2010-04-05T06:10:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow! Between Birthdays, Easter, Spring Break and starting Rob's Mission Preparation....it's been busy at our house for sure! This is our run down since March 25th..Trevor's Birthday....April 1st My Birthday....April 4th Kristi's birthday and Easter....April 5th starting on Mission Preparation for Rob (his dentist appt)...April 19th Kati's Birthday! And the Snowy Spring Break right in the middle of it all! Whew! I love this time of year! Oh, and 40 something days left of school!!!!!! HAPPY SPRING EVERYBODY!!!! Some of our weekend encluded watching Conference....going to saturday 2nd session of Conference....Max coming for a sleepover, celebrating Easter with him, decorating eggs with Max (of course I didn't get pictures but he was extremely talented in the decorating) Easter egg hunt (in the house because it was so cold outside) Candy, Candy, Candy Easter brunch with Staci, Trevor and Max....then Easter dinner with the rest of the family......ending with a Costco Cheesecake for Kristi's Birthday! Kristi had to share her birthday this year with Easter...Great Weekend!

April Fools Day!!!!!

2010-04-01T14:51:00.001-07:00

What a FUN day! It's my BIRTHDAY...and I shopped at KOHLS...and I sent out APRIL FOOLS TEXTS to my family and friends....heeheehee...and we are going to OLIVE GARDEN for dinner!

Disappointment.....

2010-04-01T06:03:00.000-07:00

Ya know, sometimes the littlest disappointment makes me really sad.....dear friends were coming to visit for the weekend....circumstances they had no control over caused them to change their plans...they can't come now and I am really sad.....boo hoo, I know, least of our worries...it's just sad when you can't see someone you love very often, then you get excited to have them come and 'poof' plans change....oh well....we live with disappointment everyday...I'm just sad.......

Spring Snow??????

2010-03-31T14:37:00.000-07:00

I just don't get it! I am sitting in our recliner with a view to the back deck and watching the snow come down in HUGE flakes!!! Today is supposed to be the start of my Spring Break....oops! Don't get me wrong, in December, Winter months, snow is beautiful...but not in the Spring...NO NO NO NO NO!!! I am cold, I just bought 2 new pair flip flops and I want to wear them TODAY.....and capri's, and everything good about the Spring and Summer months....ho hum....well, it is kind of peaceful watching those HUGE flakes fall, and because it has been warmer the snow isn't really sticking....so...ok....I'll be ok...I guess! LOL!

Spring Break..............

2010-03-30T16:12:00.000-07:00

Soooooo excited! I start spring break tomorrow!....MY BIRTHDAY IS THURSDAY!.............kristi's birthday is Sunday!..............Taukinukufili's are coming for the weekend!...........WE HAVE TICKETS TO 2ND SESSION SATURDAY CONFERENCE!................going to a movie with Kati tomorrow!................EASTER SUNDAY!.......Easter Egg hunt with the kids!....SPENDING MONDAY WITH ROB......can anyone ask for a better 6 days!!!

Something to Ponder......

2010-03-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

How many zeros in a billion?

This is too true to be funny.

The next time you hear a politician use the
Word 'billion' in a casual manner, think about
Whether you want the 'politicians' spending
YOUR tax money.

A billion is a difficult number to comprehend,
But one advertising agency did a good job of
Putting that figure into some perspective in
One of it's releases.

A.
A billion seconds ago it was 1959.

B.
A billion minutes ago Jesus was alive.

C.
A billion hours ago our ancestors were
Living in the Stone Age.

D.
A billion days ago no-one walked on the earth on two feet.

E.
A billion dollars ago was only
8 hours and 20 minutes,
At the rate our government
Is spending it.

While this thought is still fresh in our brain...
let's take a look at New Orleans ..
It's amazing what you can learn with some simple division.

Louisiana Senator,
Mary Landrieu (D)
Is presently asking Congress for
250 BILLION DOLLARS
To rebuild New Orleans . Interesting number...
What does it mean?

A.
Well... If you are one of the 484,674 residents of New Orleans
(every man, woman, and child)
You each get $516,528.

B.
Or... If you have one of the 188,251 homes in
New Orleans , your home gets$1,329,787.

C.
Or... If you are a family of four...
Your family gets $2,066,012.

Washington , D. C

HELLO!
Are all your calculators broken??

Building Permit Tax
CDL License Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Dog License Tax
Federal Income Tax (Fed)
Federal Unemployment Tax (FU TA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel Permit Tax
Gasoline Tax
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax
Inventory Tax
IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax)
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Luxury Tax
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Service charge taxes
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Tax (Truckers)
Sales Taxes
Recreational Vehicle Tax
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax
Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Tax
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Telephone Recurring and Non-recurring Charges Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax
Utility Tax
Vehicle License Registration T ax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
(And to think, we left British Rule to avoid so many taxes)

STILL THINK THIS IS FUNNY?

Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago...
And our nation was the most prosperous in the world.

We had absolutely no national debt...
We had the largest middle class in the world...
And Mom stayed home to raise the kids.

What happened?
Can you spell 'politicians!'

And I still have to
Press '1'
For English.

I hope this goes around the
U S A
At least 100 times

What the heck happened?????

Is it Spring??????

2010-03-21T06:46:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love Spring!!! Yesterday was such a beautiful day...we took Max to the "Brown" park in the neighborhood to play and he had the time of his life...he makes friends wherever he goes and loves to play...when we got home he rode his bike all around the circle, no going inside for him...tooooo nice outside! YIPEE! I can really get used to this weather.....hope it stays a while!!! I am itching to go outside and work in the yard...ya know...fix the mess the two dogs created...and I mean mess...but since going to the home show last week I have some fun ideas to try in the back yard, not to mention cutting down the stupid ugly crab apple tree! Did I mention, several years back when we bought the two apple trees, they were the same type, supposedly hahaha...only one turned out to be an ugly crab apple tree!!! Well, this year...CHOP CHOP!

I've been thinking........last week was crazy at Kearns High School! Monday, one of our students parents called to tell me their son would not be in school all week due to a car accident the night before, he was in the Hospital and going to have surgery....then Wednesday one of our office aids and his sister were returning to school from their lunch and got into a HUGE car accident...they were side-swiped by a truck of junk, sent into a fence and the bar at the top of the fence came through the drivers window almost impailing Scott, instead it hit him in the chest and broke his seat back! Thank Heavens...someone....and we all know who....was watching out for him that day! He did break several ribs and they did surgery to wire his ribs back, he's in lots of pain and discomfort, but he's alive. His sister is also in severe pain from whiplash....but their both here to tell about it! Whew! Then just down the street, another student and his girlfriend were returning to school and got into a smaller accident...they are ok. Then friday, long story short...we had a student try to committ suicide....he took medicine but would not tell the paramedic's or doctor's what he took.....scary...last I heard he was in ICU in a coma....so sad....what makes these kids give up on themselves and life.....I hope he is ok....totally is determined on what he took.....prayers are with him and his family. Then, during lunch the paramedic's came to school AGAIN! Holy Cow! One of our kids was in gym and a ball hit his finger so hard the bone actually came out! EWWWW! Is this SPRING or crazy luck at Kearns High! Here's praying for a better week!

Oh...footnote....I lost another pound and Gary lost 2.3 pounds....inch by inch by inch! We'll make it though...ugh!

SURPRISE!!!

2010-03-13T22:22:00.001-08:00

Yes....what a surprise! Weigh in was today and when I woke up this morning I felt puffy in my face and hands...which usually means "WATER WEIGHT" UGH!!!! But, alas, it wasn't so bad...I still lost 1.8 lbs....that was a pleasant surprise especially after last week when I actually gained .4lbs and wasn't happy....I had really pushed the exercise issue that week...my muscles were extremely stiff and sore. The gals at Weight Watchers told me that when you are sore and stiff you accumulate water in those muscles which looks as though you gained weight...well, sounds nice anyway...not sure how true it is though. Anyway, that week is gone and it is a new week...I have an official total weight loss of 11.8 lbs and unofficial weight loss (I lost about 4 lbs the first week....didn't weight until I had been on the diet for a week) so, again, unofficially I have lost about 15 lbs..Yahoo!!!! Much better week thank you :+)

"What's the matter with Kids today!".....lalalalala.....

2010-03-11T15:33:00.000-08:00

Really, Honestly....I just don't get it! Ok, so I work with some amazing kids....and some....hmmmm....not really sure what species some of these kids come from! Are they just plain dense or what? I honestly don't really know.....when I was in school and the end of the day bell rang....YIPEE! I got out of there as fast as I could and so did all the other kids at the school.....Not At Kearns! Holy Cow! They sluff classes, but don't go home at the end of the day! We had a fire alarm go off yesterday about 15min after school got out....TONS of kids still in the school to evacuate...and they hung around the building just as if school was still on waiting for the "All Clear" for the fire alarm ....GO HOME FOR PETE SAKE!!!!!! Watch TV, Play Wii, Fight with your brothers and sisters.....I don't care, just GO HOME!!! GEEZZZZZ!!! Then, we have a real problem with tardies.....real problem! Administration implimented a new "Tardy Policy" this week which includes a tardy ticket which costs the student $3 bucks....yes, $3 bucks! Every morning administration writes over 200 tardy tickets...just in the morning itself, then between every class it's another huge number....I was walking in the hall between 3rd and 4th period....the bell rang and the kids just continued to hang around.....what the HECK!!! They don't care....they just don't care....these tickets will add up on their fine lists and they will not graduate until they are paid in full.....and "Fee Waivers" won't cover these......honestly, I don't get it.....I love these kids, but I just plain don't understand.....TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR EDUCATION...GET GOOD GRADES...GO TO COLLEGE AND MAKE SOMETHING OF YOURSELVES!!! (I just stepped down off my soap box...LOL)

Hmmmmm.......

2010-02-27T13:22:00.000-08:00

Well....I know I didn't post last week about the weight loss...because, we didn't have time to go weigh in....this week I lost 1 measly pound and Gary lost .2 pounds....can we say "plateau"....this is the hard part of dieting....we need to up our game so to speak...different exercising etc....at least it wasn't a gain, but it gets a little frustrating....we won't give up...next week will be better.....*sigh*

Still loosing.........................

2010-02-13T18:22:00.001-08:00

Had a pretty good weigh in again today, I guess....well....at least it is another loss... I lost 1.2lbs, and Gary lost 1lb...I keep telling myself that is good and I do appreciate the loss....but, geezzz...I am so impatient!!!! I'm honestly working really hard, not even letting myself be temped to cheat or even go into my extra points as well as Zumba, Yoga and the treadmill.....just seems like a meager loss when I work so hard.....I'm (sorta patiently) waiting for the day something snaps, I stand on those scales and the gal says...woooo hoooo you lost 5lbs this week (I've done it before in the past) I know two pounds a week is a good safe weight loss, and I keep telling myself this is good, and believe me I am glad I am loosing and not gaining, it just seems I have so far to go and I honestly am not the most patient person in the world.....I want it now!!! Hahaha....(me and drama)....it will happen...yes in baby steps, but it will happen. I love any encouragement you can share.....keep me strong!!! Thanks for your help so far...I really appreciate everything you guys tell me, and I need to hear it!!!

sigh.....my luck ran out!

2010-02-09T06:33:00.000-08:00

Ya know....I have been so proud of the fact that I just don't get sick...really!.....my luck ran out! Max had a sleep over last weekend (and no, he wasn't sick at all)...we had our usual good times...Saturday afternoon I took him to Planet 51 (which between his popcorn and the movie..he was super fantastic) I came home thinking...am I getting sick....then Wham Bam!!! It hit me like a ton of bricks! Here it is Tuesday and I am feeling horrible....I am such a baby because I was able to hold off everyone's germs for almost 2 years...now look at me! I am staying home from work today to try and rest this thing off because tomorrow is Zumba and Yoga...really, I LOVE going to these two classes with Kati and I am not missing them! Because of our schedules we can only do the Wednesday classes...so it's that and the treadmill at home that keep me going and I refuse to give into a "virus" and let it stop me! My plan today is eat my oranges, drink my water, take my vitamines and rest...rest...rest....for tomorrow I ZUMBA!

Yes!!!!

2010-02-06T12:24:00.001-08:00

Today I am a little happier than last week......at weigh in I lost 2 pounds (Gary lost 3 pounds of course) and I am happy...especially since I have started working out on certain days with the diet............which I think is paying off. I've been told 2 pound weight loss a week is healthy....this brings the official total to 7.6 pounds (Gary 10 pounds).....but really I started the diet a week before my first weigh in, so my actual weight loss is a tinch over 10 pounds..............:+) I can be happy with this.............on to another week!

Ok....I'll take it......

2010-01-30T10:31:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling a little bummed right now. I have been working so hard at this diet thing...I mean, passing by the good stuff and eating my Smart One's at work...going to Yoga (ouch*&%$) with Kati, not cheating at all...(that is really good for me) only to loose 1 measly pound today at weigh in. Of course, Gary lost 2.6lbs (good for him). Don't get me wrong, I'm happy with the loss, but it just seems like as hard as I work, it should come off faster...heaven forbid if I were to go out and eat a nice meal not concerned at the consequences today, I could probably gain 3-5lbs....really, not kidding. Of course my plan is to stick this through...work hard, start a Zumba class with Kati this Wed (with Yoga) and move forward...I'm just a little discouraged....I know whaa whaa whaa...need to get out of my pitty party, and I will....just need some encouragement I guess! Well...off I goooooo.....

I LOVE being Max's Grandma Lu.......

2010-01-25T23:27:00.000-08:00

Can't wait for our sleepover on Friday! Luv ya buddy

WHEW! 3 wks down.....on to the next!

2010-01-24T11:23:00.000-08:00

Just an update on my Weight Watcher attempt.......really, it hasn't been bad. I actually have not had any real desires to "Cheat" yet....I know, now I better knock on wood (and preferably real wood LOL).....but as of yesterday's weigh in....I lost 4.6 plus the other 3lbs earlier....grand total 7.6lbs in 3 wks! I'm feeling good about the loss....so much more to go, but it will happen...I'm determined this time. Gary had a 5.2lb loss yesterday (of course, wouldn't you know it...the men always loose more....) On to the next week! One thing I did notice this time around, usually after weigh in on saturday we feel free to cheat just a little, but this time is different....no desire. That has been a surprise for me and I hope and pray the feeling doesn't change....this will be so much easier if I just follow the plan and not deviate at all...that's my goal! Anyway, wish me luck for another good week.....oh, I forgot to mention...this weight loss was during a 5 day trip to Las Vegas and 2 dinners at work (that I actually skipped and ate my Smart Ones instead)........time will tell....all I can say is "ONE DAY AT A TIME"

Why................

2010-01-08T05:21:00.000-08:00

A Millard County Deputy was shot and killed in the line of duty. The blue line represents all law enforcement who daily protect this nation. The black background was designed as a constant reminder of our fallen officers. I have such a hard time understanding why someone feels they have the right to take someone else away from their families....this Deputy was a young mom, wife, daughter, granddaughter,sister and friend. She was doing her job to defend and protect those in Millard County. This ... person ... choose to shoot her and take her life with no thought at all....as I understand both men are illegal in our Country and the shooter has been deported 3 time and come back with numerous counts of illegal activity on his rap sheet....how does this happen? I hope they don't ever let him out....hope this time justice prevails. May God be with this young Deputies family, friends and especially 2 little children....their mom was a hero, and I for one appreciate all those who put their lives on the line to protect and defend my family and me...they most certainly are HEROS in my mind...Thank You.

Day 2 and counting.......

2010-01-04T16:39:00.000-08:00

Ok, just a little update....Hurray!!! Day 2 and doing great on Weight Watchers! LOL...little things mean a lot when you're dieting! Rachel, you mentioned the reduced fat Kettle Corn....where do you get it...that would be great and the hot chocolate at night sounds like a really good idea....if anyone has any ideas for us feel free to post them....ideas are great when you're dieting!

Here we go again....broken record!

2010-01-02T23:22:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the post and I know everybody is going to read this and shake their heads...."yea yea yea"..."here we go again"..."let's see how long this lasts" are sure to be some of the comments made while reading this, but all I can say is "I gotta try again!" I am a failure at this, totally proven in the past, and I'm not going to say this time is going to be any easier for any strange reason....actually, I fought with myself whether to even put anything down on my blog about this...but since I have family and friends who just might pay a little attention to my little drabbles here on my blog, I decided to see if there might be a little support out there for me to have the courage to fight this horrible addiction I have called "FOOD!" Yes, you guessed....another public DIET! Gary and I re-joined Weight Watchers again...we found this program has been the only diet plan we have any success on at all...we are made to be accountable each week for what we do during that week. I am going to again start using the treadmill at least 3 mornings a week at first...then move foward from that. Hopefully you will support Gary and I....only if you know of the extreme challenge dieting is will you understand how hard this will be for us, but we really need to get our lives healthy and under control....Let the Games Begin and the Fat Lady Sing!

Good-By 2009......

2009-12-29T19:47:00.000-08:00

Hello 2010! Wow! Another year gone by....a lot has happened at the Schroeder House....Hmmm let's see what I can remember....(hopefully mostly good) Our little street was taken out of the Marcrest 1st and put into Marcrest 2nd ward....sad to lose great friends, but it was a good move and we are making good NEW friends....(HONESTLY I really hate change so this was hard at first) then I was released from Stake Relief Society Presidency...I miss working with those great Spiritual Women and am so thankful I was able to rub shoulders with them for the time I did.....they were such a great influence on me. Kristi graduated from LDS Business College in April, Kati graduated from Snow in May, and Rob graduated from Cyprus in June...WHEW! Gary and I were put in as 'Shephards' for the Young adults in our Ward....did some costuming for Beauty and the Beast..this being our Stake production this last summer...HUGE production and very well done! Took Grandma Schroeder to live at Washington Terrace...some good...some bad experiences with this. She is not with it at all..doesn't know who we are most of the time but happy in her own little world. Hired to work at Kearns High as the Guidance Counselors Secretary...love the people I'm working with...they are great. Saw friends move in, move out...again really hard 'cause I'm just not good with change. Spent great time with our family at the cabin....lost a very dear friend-Mockey-our very special dog of 17 1/2yrs...he will never be forgotten. Had join our family Jack...Kati's jack russell terrior and Shado our 6mo old shelty/pomeranian who we have grown to love very much for their own personalities..Max and his emergency room visits...one with croup and one getting him 7 stitches in his ear..OUCH! He did real good...then Kristi moved out into an apartment in Logan with friends (we miss her)....then, of course, some hard times and challenges I won't mention at this time but which have been and are challenging us to stretch and depend on our Testimonies and Faith in the Gospel.....I have found these things make us stronger in every way if we allow them too...lots and lots more but, instead of looking back...I am looking forward to 2010 as a year we commit ourselves to pray more, read scriptures more, study more, love more, grow more and be thankful for all we do have.....here's to 2009 ... but now on to 2010 with open arms!!!

Deck the Halls ...falalalalaaaaa.....

2009-12-15T19:03:00.000-08:00

Ok....this is our Christmas tree...my very 1st BIG Pre-Lit beautiful Christmas tree...I bought it last year after Christmas and got a really good deal............little Shado loves to sleep under the tree, but in his puppy dog fashion, chewed off some of the lower lights..UGH! Ok...I can live with that...just the lower branches are OUT....then, you can't see them in this picture, but I have the cutest little teddy bears all over the branches Um...yes you can just imagine...I found 5 bears in the snow outside!!! It was the dogs! I saved the little bear lives.. (and the dogs lives too) but now the bears are ALL in the middle to the top of the tree..oh yes, we have red and silver beaded garland....You guessed it....the dogs chewed the beads up on the lower branches..GOOD GRIEF!......Picture this..a big beautifully decorated (thank you Kristi) pre-lit Christmas tree now totally re-decorated looking a bit out of order and lopsided with decorations only middle to the top......these dogs are worse than my kids ever were! Yes, there's more .. So...then...last night Shado was chewing a bone under the tree and all of a sudden he yipped, flew up and ran down the hall.....yup, you guessed it, he chewed through live wires from the beautiful big pre lit tree! He had the SHOCK of his little life....but never fear...the tree is still lit and the dog still alive...WHEW! Wires wrapped in electrical tape and doggy chillin with his friend Jack! Dogs, you can't live with them and ya can't live without them!

This is Max at Grandma Schroeder's...we went over to the nursing home and decorated her little
room with this cute little tree...I made the ornaments..they have pictures of her family...she really seemed to like it...she is in her own little world and doesn't quite know what this is all about, but Gary visited with her yesterday and her tree was still decorated and lit...we were wondering if her roommate would pick at it...so far so good!

Oh how I love Christmas and all it brings...we have been so blessed this year with some fantastic Christmas Events to bring on the Christmas Spirit...we had tickets to 1st Presidency Message (great seats), Forgotten Carols, Sunday morning Spoken Word and Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert with guest singer Natalie Cole (fantastic seats....very inspirational), Christmas Carol in Bountiful (thank you Staci & Trevor)......then...fun shopping (black friday hahaha), eating, decorating, being with family etc etc etc.....The Schroeder's wish you and your families a Very Merry Christmas...make these special days something to remember. We all, especially the Schroeders, have lots of struggles, challenges and discouragements...but you can make any day great inspite of what roadblocks are in your way.....keep positive and laugh...things are never as bad as they seem....most of all...make the memories..they last forever!

Decorating Grandma's room.....

2009-12-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

These are pictures of Max and his Masterpiece!!! He really enjoyed decorating the TREE!!!

Ok....after a great time decorating Grandma's tree,
Max wanted to go play at the Mall....
Mall's in Ogden are really fun! They have their
own Playgrounds for the
kids to play in...................and, a fun Train!!! Max had a blast!!!

Thanksgiving and Christmas....My Favorite time of Year......

2009-12-01T20:02:00.000-08:00

Well, again Thanksgiving has come and gone! I love this time of year. I just wish I could find a way of holding on to it and making it stay just a little longer...but, I can't, so I will just enjoy each minute. We, again, had Thanksgiving dinner at our house. It is getting harder and harder to keep everybody home long enough to really enjoy each other...but I totally understand other family commitments...we play "sharzies" at our house. We had dinner at noon. All the kids were there, my mom, my brother, my niece and her little family...total about 15 for dinner. We set up a larger table in the living room and the kitchen ... I love to be able to sit down for this particular dinner. It was yummy of course. The company was great and we enjoyed each other. Everybody had to leave to other engagements so we just enjoyed the time we spent with each other. Kati went to Ben's family and later they both came to our house for pie....real nice. Next, Staci came back in preparation for "Black Friday" Love this day! Unfortunately Kati had to work the next day, so she had to make a choice to not spend the early morning with us...Booooo ... we really missed her. We were up at 1:55am...heading to Old Navy at 2:30am....yes, we stood in line for about an hour...actually it wasn't too cold....and yes, there were those people who came later, stayed in their cars and wanted to "crash" the doors to get in without the benefit of standing with the rest of us in line....BOOOOOO! Security was great and most didn't make it in....haha. Kristi got her little boy coats for $15 for her sub for santa...Yippeeee! I stood in line while they looked for things so we didn't have to wait too long to check out...by the time we checked out the line was winding all around the store...CRAZY! Then off to Target...with a short stop at the Maverik for Hot Cocoa...Yummmm....we stood in line, again, for about another hour...again, the door crashers came, but once again...SECURITY!!! What a great bunch of helpful men...they deserve a donut or something Hahaha! Yes, we got some really good deals for, of course who else, Max...again, I got in line as the girls shopped which made our "escape" much more bearable...LOL.....Next, we stopped by Walmart...unfortunately, we didn't see anything we really needed (this year it is "need" gifts rather than "want" gifts...budget budget)and the lines by then were HUGE and not worth standing in....so off to Jim's for breakfast...there Kati met up with us too. We had a great morning. We then went home for a short 2hr nap and then, yes, off to the Malls! The day was long and totally enjoyable, but....it was not finished yet.....yes, we threw in a Movie....Holy Cow, could we do anything more? We saw "The Blind Side" What a great movie....totally a keeper! We will certainly buy this one for our DVD library! Can you say "tired" well I can and did.....we were done! So worth it and will do it again next year! Saturday we set up the tree and decorations while Gary decorated the outside with lights.....we decided to scale down the lights outside this year....they are nice but simple...................what a great Holiday weekend! Through it all, it made me so thankful for all the blessings our family has...we are so blessed and I am so grateful ......now, on to Christmas, deck the halls, falalalala, We Wish you a Merry Christmas, Silent Night and all that good stuff!!!

I'm Thankful for Best Friends................

2009-11-26T06:32:00.000-08:00

.....who get along and just plain love each other!!!

They became BEST friends from the moment we brought Shado home....Thank's Jack for helping us make a Happy Home for our little Shado!!!

Boys will be boys.........

2009-11-17T18:08:00.000-08:00

Well, yes Max was being a boy! He and his cousin Brock were rough housing and, you guessed it, Max got hurt....he hit the side of the coffee table and few hours later Wa La 7 stitches holding his ear back together!!! OUCH!

I was so proud of him..such a brave little guy. He was soooo afraid of shots, and of course, you don't get stitches without the shot....but after a few HUGE alligator tears, mom and dad by his side...he was stitched up very nicely and good to go....

Dad and Mom did pretty good too....this was the first of probably many trips to have stitches unfortunately....deep breath, it's just begun!!!

Fall Leaves.......

2009-11-08T08:33:00.001-08:00

What is more fun than playing in a fresh pile of leaves from the trees.....

I LOVE Thanksgiving!!!!

2009-11-01T18:31:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite Holiday's....I enjoy Halloween, but I LOVE Thanksgiving! Some of my reasons for loving Thanksgiving.................

................and so much more! HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!

Well.......He's here!

2009-10-30T21:14:00.001-07:00

Meet Shado...our 4 mo Shelty/Pom mix puppy. We are so excited to welcome this little guy into our home. We are somewhat sad though, I think and everybody agrees, that he has been an abused little guy and probably severely. The entire ride home from Stansbury he shivered and acted so scared. We took him outside to play and run with Jack, after a bit of coaxing he did warm up a bit....but, whenever "a human" would go over to him to either pet him, or pick him up, he would suddenly lay down, turn over and cower down...it was so sad to see. After he had been here about 3-4 hrs, he started even barking at the neighbor dog and running all over the back yard...with, might I add, his tail wagging! A beautiful glimmer of hope. He doesn't do stairs though...that needs to change LOL. We then took him to pet smart for a bath, brush and toilnail grinding. The girls said he did very well..little timid during the hair drying, but everything else he enjoyed. He came home just beautiful with a Halloween bow. He didn't much want to do anything after that..just layed around. We decided he could go to his crate to bed...It's a nice soft bed and a warm blankie. He crawled back, curled up and snuggled in for the night....I hope we can help him come out of this horrible "shell" he is living in....I don't know too much about doggie's mental status...I'm hoping whatever damage was done to his little mind won't be lasting, and that we can help him be a sweet happy little guy...we're sure gonna try...........he has already made a place in our hearts, of course.....no dog will ever replace Mockey, but there is a HUGE hole Mockey left behind that I really think Shado can fill. Oh, and his name...story of course....when we got him, I asked what his name was and the gal said..."we just call him shelty" WHAT! What is with these brainless people not even giving this poor little guy a name....anyway...Shelty won't work here....so, we decided to go for Shado....since Mockey was a Shelty Mix (just a different mix) we decided that Shado will be Mockey's shadow...two special little dogs....I know, pretty lame...LOL...but it's the Schroeder way ya know!

In remembrance.......

2009-10-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

We will always remember you dear friend....this is just a way for us to honor your sweet memory and the over 17yrs you gave our family....you certainly were man's best friend, companion, helper and comforter. Till we meet again sweet boy......luv you!

Girls Day/Night out!!!!

2009-10-18T10:31:00.000-07:00

What a fun day! Kristi and Staci came home...sooooo...Staci,Kristi, Kati and I spent the entire day together!!! (partly a birthday present for Staci) We started at Michaels and got supplies to make this stone to place under the Lilac bush...that is where Mockey used to always sleep outside...Kristi and I made it today and I think it turned out a lot better than I expected....

Then...it was off to Tai Pan Trading....whooo hooo...the girls found some HUGE fruits and Christmas ornaments to pose by.....who decorates with these things anyway!!! LOL

Ok....Staci, put the purses down, slowly walk away.....as you can see, purses are something Staci loves....here she couldn't pick which one to buy...actually, Kati and I bought one too....hahaha

After Tai Pan it was off to Target to buy Halloween shirts to wear to dinner and Thriller....then, we went to Walmart to get our pedicures!!! Sorry I don't have pictures of the shirts or pedicures, just rest assured, they were AWESOME!!! We all got orange toes, and the girls got Halloween decorations painted on their big toes. It was sooo much fun and yes, the Schroeder Nerds were on the town!!! We then went to Biachi's (spelling?) at Gateway....Yummy!!! Then it was to Kingsbury Hall for....da da da daaaa...THRILLER!!! I just love that show. We were 4th row up, on the end with an empty seat by Kati....yes, if you have ever been to Thriller and know that before the show the Zombies walk up and down the isles harassing and scaring everybody....Kati got her share and we laughed so hard! Here is a Zombie that decided to sit next to Kati....I got a picture with my cell phone..not really good, but you get the picture anyway. GREAT SHOW as always! Then, of course the night wasn't finished until we stopped at Baskin Robbins for our favorite Ice Cream. This was one of those priceless day/nights that I will always remember. Thanks girls! Love you!!

Trying to be a better me..................

2009-10-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

Have you ever just looked around you, especially recently, and noticed all the tough times, challenges and obstacles invading homes and families? I look around, I see so much pain, sorrow, enduring to the end, service, love, heart ach, illness...etc etc...seems I could go on and on. Believe me, the Schroeder household have had their share as well.....I think about the Family Unit and the Love and Security that should be felt there. I see others struggling with faith, decisions, trust etc and see that as such a way that satan works his "mighty miracles" to destroy these precious families. This is part of enduring to the end, that we must follow our leaders that teach us and guide us....it's just so hard at times. We are so easily discouraged in simple things, that when it comes to the hard things..how do we ever do it. I know we have been given promises..and "guides" to help us receive those promises...these things will help us stay strong especially during hard times and I am committed to try to do better myself. I want my family to succeed and be Eternally together. I want to do the right things to keep us Faithfully obedient to all the Lord's commandments...Attending the Temple...that is so easy for me, why is it soooo hard to find the time! Well, I am going to go more often. Once a month just isn't good enough, it needs to be more often especially right now. I need to feel the Lord close to me and witness again to me that these things are true and good and precious and WORTH IT! My scripture reading....I am sooo bad at that, and it has got to be a priority for me. Prayers, what a hard thing for me to always remember. I'm quick to pray when there is a problem, when I need help, or when others need help (which is actually a lot) but I have been so bad at my own evening personal prayers for quite some time now and that is just not an option anymore .....I guess I have just been plain lazy...I can't allow this anymore. I know it is up to me to make sure I do those things that promise blessings....right now I need those blessings and to feel close to our Savior. My Testimony is strong, but I have been ignoring it and just not doing my part. I love my family, I want the very best for each one....and I want us all to succeed. So...here's my big list.........Personal Prayers, Family Prayers, Personal Scripture Study, Family Scripture Study, Try to attend the Temple twice a month even if it's by myself.....try to give service to someone at least once a month....or whenever the Lord needs me too. I Love my Savior. I am so sorry for being a slacker. I know I have let my "busy" schedule of life take over and put aside those things that are really important....that will change. This sounds like if I do all these things I will be "perfect" lol...not a chance....I will always have something to work on...that's just who I am. If the Lord can forgive me for these past short comings, I promise to do better with my life...to be a better mother, wife, grandma, friend...just a better me.

R.I.P. sweet boy.....June 21, 1992-August 7, 2009

2009-10-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

Till we meet again sweet friend.............

Our BEST FRIEND..................

2009-10-05T15:55:00.000-07:00

Just sitting here thinking about someone in our lives that never judges, gets mad, distrusts and who loves unconditionally, this is our friend Mockey. Mockey came to our family during a time when we were all working on recovering from the loss of another close friend..Sandy..and he filled the holes in our heart in a way we will always be grateful for. He was just a pup, hyper and into everything. He was tiny, running as fast as he could throughout the house and under the couch, and yes, falling through the slats in the stairs of the deck! We had to go through and put chicken wire along the bottom of the fence so to avoid an escape, then when he did escape, we would chase him all over Milden Lane (thanks neighbors for your patience) He loved to ride in the car, that became a good thing for us. It was always such a pain to go looking for him (with 4 little kids), you would meet him eye to eye and then he would dart away! Finally we got smart and used a secret tool, the car....due to the fact he love a good ride, we would open the sliding door and he would run and jump right in...ha ha gotcha!!! He grew to be a beautiful loving friend who would run trails along the fence....he was everybodys friend. He is always there when we need his comfort. Seems to know when we need his snuggling. Has has always been such a sweet boy, and such a good dog..the best, and we are a lucky family to have been able to call him our friend for the last 17yrs. We hope to have many more years with Mockey, but see him slowing down a lot. He doesn't run trails anymore, doesn't run away anymore, has a hard time climbing the deck stairs, doesn't jump on the beds or furniture anymore...and as of lately, doesn't look at us and whine to have us do something for him....he lays at our feet, sleeps outside in the tomato bushes or under the lilac bush...we pick him up so he can sleep on the bed, or on occasion we put him in his favorite place on the back of the couch to look out the window, but we have to hold on to him so he doesn't fall... you can feel him getting skinnier and skinner because he isn't eating as much......We are realistic, we know he is older than most dogs ever get, but because of our love he is still with us and we hope he is for a long time to come....you just don't find dogs that are so loving and good. Mockey, we want to thank you for all the wonderful loving years you shared with our family...17yrs is a long time and as long as you need us, we need you....We love you sweet friend....

Yes we did!!! We went spur of the moment BOWLING.......

2009-09-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh!!! We had soooo much fun bowling 3 games at Delton in West Valley. Here is Max....he had such a great time as you can see...if you notice the ball, it is headed for his one strike of the day!! Whoo Hoo Max!!! (sorry for the blurry, I forgot my camera, again, and had to depend on my cell phone...booooo)

This is Gary doing his thing, of course, he won the first 2 games, but I actually won the third.....(his arm was giving out, remember, it's been LONG time since we have bowled!!)

Kati...look at that form!!! We laughed so hard!!! Oh, are we going to be sore tomorrow!!!

Notice Max keeping an eye on his mom's game....he just totally enjoyed himself, as did the rest of us......

Sorry, no pictures of me..(well, not really sorry LOL) I bowled a 50 something first game, 77 second game and a whopping 110 for the 3rd game!!!
OH YES....Gary and I are really sore...In placed I wouldn't have expected!!! But it was totally worth it and I now know this will be a Schroeder activity again!!!

9/11.....8yrs ago.....God Bless America

2009-09-11T05:53:00.000-07:00

Grapes + Juicer= Jam

2009-09-09T22:55:00.001-07:00

DONE!!!! Picked the grapes growing on our fence, spent 4 hours juicing them with my grandmother's hand juicer, and now after 4 batches .... Grape Jam!!!

Labor Day in Las Vegas.......

2009-09-08T19:35:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Cheyenne, Luana and Max (picture last October at our house..need to get a picture from the weekend from someone)....Cheyenne is the reason we traveled to Las Vegas this last weekend. She chose to be Baptized and we wanted to be a part of that day with her and with the family, so we STUFFED ourselves into our little Ford Focus and headed to St George first, then the next day on to Vegas. We stayed at Arizona Charlie's on Boulder....a motel Kristi and stayed at before....then spent our time with the Taukinukufili's. I was so proud of Cheyenne and she looked so beautiful...she has a beautiful dress that she wore after the Baptism. Max, wow, he was infatuated with Cheyenne...in fact he has decided when he turns 5...which is a whole hand, he and Cheyenne will be married. We asked him at Church about the up and coming wedding plans and he was very determined this would happen. Also, he was very interested in the fact that Joey was passing sacrament. He decided that Joey was able to hold the priesthood because he was "Tall" enough. Max has decided that soon he will be "Tall" enough to hold the priesthood. Hmmmm...can you say, "parent teaching moments?" He was full of cute, funny explanations for different things...it's funny what goes through these little guys minds. He kept following Cheyenne around the house until finally she decided to hide out in her mom and dad's room.....funny! They did get some pictures of the two of them, really cute, I will have to track down a copy from somebody and post them. All in all, it was a great time.....minus the drive there and home in our Focus tuna can....wonderful baptism and confirmation, great BBQ in the back yard, really great time visiting and playing games, swimming etc etc....can't wait to go back!! Love you Taukinukufili's

Great opportunities to share in the Temple dedications.....

2009-08-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Draper Temple

Oquirrh Mt Temple

This was our second dedication this summer...how nice it was to be there with our kids to witness a beautiful dedication of another House of the Lord. I felt the spirit so strong today while listening to the spoken word and beautiful music...we are so grateful for the beautiful temples that surround us...within minutes or just a few hours we can spend time within the walls of eight Temples right here in Utah, 4 of which are here in the Salt Lake Valley.....I Love to be in the Temples and feel of His spirit.....I am so grateful for the blessings of Eternal Families and that if we live righteous lives and follow the covenants we make in the Temples we will have our families forever.......what is any more important than that....

Kristi .... on her own now in Logan.......

2009-08-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

We will miss our daily dose of Kristi............
those crazy times with sisters...and believe me there were plenty!!

This is basically her all the time...fun and crazy!

Kristi is a "one of a kind" friend....very caring and thoughtful to all her friends...

Her love and caring for others...she just loved going to the hospital and holding Lucas...her cousins baby.............

Max doesn't understand why Kristi doesn't live here anymore....he LOVES his Kristi....she is a super fun Auntie!!!

Here is someone who is really going to miss Kristi...Mockey! This is our 17yr old dog who just loves his Kristi......

Then, believe it or not, Jack....Kristi's friend...(they have a love/hate relationship LOL)She loves that stinker!!!

Then...these are 4 of Kristi's FAVORITE kids!!! She loves them sooooo much!!!

Kristi's daily presence is going to be missed, but we know she is moving on to a great adventure and we wish her the very best.....

WE LOVE YOU KRISTI more than you'll ever know....have a great time!!!

Old Friends......Good Times.....

2009-08-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

What a great day it was today!!! Thank heavens for Facebook.....after many many years of no contact, we got together to renew a long lost friendship and it was a TON of fun....something we are going to keep up in the future for sure. These are a couple of special people who were a huge part of my life growing up in Orem Utah...we were in the same Ward for many years (until a dreaded split) and went to school, went to activities and just enjoyed our friendships. Today as we got together, we told stories, laughed, reminded each other of things we did, laughed, talked about our families now, laughed etc etc etc....it was a wonderful 3 hours in the restaurant. As I sat there, I was amazed at the fact that here were 3 friends from forever ago...50 something AND LOOKING LIKE OUR MOTHERS!!!! How funny is that!!!

This is Diane Seely (Fisher) our sophomore year at Orem High School....

This is Diane Seely Fisher at the restaurant today!!! What a good day!!

This is Diana Brandenburg (Boschetti) our sophomore year at Orem High School...

This is Diana Brandenburg Boschetti at the Restaurant today!!! We laughed so hard!!!

This is "yours truly" our sophomore year at Orem High School....

And of course, me now....

You know, there really is something special about relationships...time goes on, you become divided by that time...you change, have a lot of experiences but the friendships stay alive....it's great to reunite and we plan to make this an annual thing...........honestly, thanks facebook!!!

Such a busy week/weekend at the Schroeders....

2009-08-01T20:45:00.001-07:00

This has been a CRAZY week!!! We have spent the week preparing for several different things...Kristi's Girl's Camp director for our Young Women and they leave Monday...tons to do in preparation for that, Kristi is moving to Logan on the 15th and looking for a job...soooooo...I drove to Logan twice this week with her for 3 different job interviews, we had a Milden Ln/Milden Cir past and present neighbors BBQ in our backyard Friday night...What a wonderful night full of good food and good friends....we just really enjoyed the night. We had probably 40-50 people....just a really great night. Then this morning we had a baby shower for Angela Hansen...one of the girls whose family lived on Milden Ln for many years..such good friends......soooo....we then hosted anther party with good friends (some of the same as last night) and good food....Staci was the creator of this event....she did a really good job and Angela's little Savanah got some great gifts. We also tied her a quilt and signed onsies...(Schroeder's just don't like to do the lame games...I always loose and I don't like them just because of that) Then, after the party it was MORE shopping for girls camp!!! WE ARE FINALLY DONE!!! She is packed up and will leave early Monday morning........here we sit, relaxing at our computers watching some chick flick....now, that is the life.....once again, this is the reason we are Schroeders in a NUT shell!!!!! Fits. (stay tuned, there will be pictures...I'm just too tired to download them to the computer tonight)

July 24th 2009!!! Parade and fun...............

2009-07-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

Max was so impressed that we had a flag on our front lawn....he just couldn't figure out how it got there....He really liked it......

Then there was the parade....we were so excited for it...but, sadly, it didn't turn out to be what we expected...first, we had a pretty good spot until "adults" decided they needed to stand in front of Max so that they could see the parade...I guess they decided he didn't need to see. We would ask them politely to move so Max could see the parade but they would just give dirty looks and grunt (what kind of people would stand in front of a little boy... on purpose) .... then, sadly, when the flag went by...a part of the parade I have always loved...NOBODY stood to show their respect!!! A huge block of people and they just sat there, didn't even clap or anything... I was appalled .... I know not everyone is from this great country...but they are choosing to live here and enjoy all the freedoms and wonderful lifestyles they have...they don't have to cross their hearts, but to stand and show respect to our flag, how hard is that...instead it was more like they were showing disrespect to our country .... It was sad....then, people were rude and ridiculous all over the parade route so we only stayed an hour and headed home.....

Max did enjoy the bands...he would stand on my lap and wave his arms around the entire time they played their music.....unfortunately, he had the beginnings of a cold and felt crappy that morning...so it was better we left anyway....better luck next year...I do love the 24th of July Parade...we just got in the midst of a rotten group of people....better luck next year...Happy 24th everyone!!!

Birthday at Chuck E Cheese!!!!!!

2009-07-26T20:34:00.001-07:00

Max and cousins Brock, Allyssa and Maddison with the great Chuck himself!!! Get a load at Max's face....what's that look all about? LOL

Opening presents.....

"Shaking it" with Chuck E Cheese himself.....you go Max!!!

Lighting the Birthday cake....Max blew out ALL 4 candles at once!!!

Sitting with best buddy...cousin Brock...

Max had a great day playing all the games, opening presents, eating pizza, playing with cousins....and being the center of attention with Chuck E Cheese himself....good times....Happy Birthday Buddy....have a great year 4...next year you will be one whole hand old....Whoo Hoo!!!

Started out as a drink out of the hose.......

2009-07-26T20:23:00.000-07:00

Full fledged WATER FIGHT!!

and two BIG WET HUGS to aunties......

July 26th!!! Happy Birthday Max....playing with Jack.....

2009-07-26T20:03:00.000-07:00

Lots of yard fun at Grandma Lu's and Pappa's....we had a special fun day on Sunday...Max's actual birthday...He's 4!!! Max loves Jack the dog...they are such characters together...what one doesn't think of the other does...here Max is knocking green apples off the tree and throwing them for Jack to fetch....

Not quite sure what they were doing....two little butts .....Max is probably picking something and Jack is probably eating something.......

Cabin and 4 wheelers.........

2009-07-14T06:45:00.000-07:00

We were able to spend the weekend in the cabin our friends own in Smith Morehouse up above Kamas!! Bob called on Friday and told us it was available..so we scrambled and everybody changed their schedules for such a nice weekend...Gary, Rob and I went up Friday..Kristi came up in the afternoon on Saturday...Trevor, Staci & Max came up around 7:30pm Saturday and Kati & Ben got there around midnight...We all got to spend the weekend in the most beautiful place around! We had so much fun riding 4 wheelers and a golfcart..walking the dogs, (yes, both dogs came too and were really good) petting and feeding the horses..etc.. Kristi and I made scones for Navajo Taco's and honey butter saturday afternoon that lasted all weekend...isn't that just a great camping food? We just totally enjoyed ourselves...we saw so many deer, and Kristi and I saw a Moose while we were riding the 4 wheelers....

This picture is off the back deck...so many of my favorite Aspen Trees all around the cabin.....

This is one of the many deer...this is a doe with her 2 baby deer...you can't see them in this picture, of course I didn't have my camera, just my cell phone...they were in our driveway and when they walked away, we went on the 4 wheelers to find them...the 4 wheelers are a little too noisy to get very close so this is all I could get...Kristi and I were out with the 4 wheelers and there was a HUGE baby Moose on the road in front of us...he was scared off the road by our noise and we could see him in the brush but we decided not to stick around due to the fact his mom was probably close by and we were a little unprotected on the 4 wheelers....It was fun to see though....

These next two pictures are right outside our dinning room window...sorry for the screen...I didn't want to go onto the deck because it would scare the deer away...you could tell the animals would sleep around the cabin...the tall grass would be smashed down....they are so beautiful....

Here is Max on the deck with Mockey...the dogs did so good up there......

Here is Max with Jack on the deck too....

We did have on scary experience Sunday night...it generally storms while we are up there...they are really fast moving storms but full of lightening and thunder...I have to admit, I really love the storms with all the lightening and thundering...(up until Sunday night anyway LOL)...We had Max in the tub and everyone else was in the livingroom/dining room....yes, there was a storm coming through...I could see it through the bathroom window and Gary had just come in from riding the 4 wheeler...there are 2 big windows in the livingroom/dinning room which are the front of the cabin and we had them open...while I was in the bathroom with Max there was a flash and then crack of thunder soon after...I said "that one wasn't a mile away" and everybody agreed...I then was walking in the hall towards the livingroom/dinning room facing the windows when there was the most deafening crack orange flash and sparks I have ever seen or heard...everybody screamed and ran around to close windows and turn everything off (it was amazing to me that the power didnt' go off...a few circuit breakers flipped off is all)....the lightening hit in the front yard of the cabin somewhere among the Aspens...first we thought it hit a tree, but the next morning we decided it just hit the ground...it was terrifying and something we will always remember and of course talk about (you always have to have those memories that you can talk about LOL)...but everybody was safe and we still had a fabulous weekend.....ending with great shakes at the Polar King on our way home.....thanks Bob for the use of you cabin again!

Another fun day in Ogden with Max and Staci.....

2009-07-09T17:45:00.001-07:00

Started out at the neighborhood water park....it is soooo nice and FREE!!! All the mothers are there with their kids, lunches, blankets and ready for a good day...how nice is this!!!

Max especially loves the big water guns....the kids shoot each other....tons of fun!!

Max drying out after a fun time in the water...

We went to the duck pond and sadly...there weren't too many ducks...and can you believe it...they weren't hungry!! We walked, and raced around the pond....Max had a lot of fun!!

We visited with Grandma Schroeder...I think she kind of knew us a little today...she was in the lunch room and waved at us when we walked in...who really knows...we took her apples and a candy bar....her love!!! LOL!!! We then went to IHOP and had lunch with our 2 for one coupons....love those coupons hahaha....long busy day but we really had fun...love you guys!!!