Farmgirl Forever

It's Always Fun When Grandpa Comes!

2010-06-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

Since it is June, we are singing all the fun Father and Grandfather songs for primary. "A Great Big Kiss" is of course a keepsake; but for some reason, this past Sunday, while singing 'It's always fun when Grandpa comes,' I couldn't help seeing Grandpa's truck, usually with racks still in, snaking it's way down to the farm. After awhile, it would make its way up the dirt road to the canal and then on the way back would stop at regular intervals, door ajar, to allow Grandpa to take care of the dams. Then, when all the chores were done, and especially if it was summer or the weekend, (because that is when I would be home) that truck would meander down "THE LANE." That's when Grandpa would come a calling! I loved it when Grandpa came! He loved to see what we were up to, got us out of doing whatever chores we were supposed to be finishing up, and let us know the happenings of the day. He always let us know that we were loved. He always expected us to be good kids. He always told us how proud he was of us. He got after us, only when we were in danger, or doing something extremely foolish. Many times he would bring us some prize from his garden. Like, Chinese Cucumbers, or a top-notch melon. I can still see his work-worn hands, his sometimes scruffy whiskered face, his well-worn work pants and shirt and old farm boots. Inside his pocket, with still a bit of lint usually attached, were pink Wintergreen candies. We were always welcome to have one.

I remember Grandpa with his thumb sideways between his front teeth, almost itching it, as he thought about things. He always wanted to hear our music, and sometimes had time to read a story.

Right outside the back window of my 2nd Grade classroom (Mrs. Barlocker), I can still remember Grandpa's truck parked in the shade of a mulberry tree. He was waiting for Shauna to get out of Kindergarten so he could take her home, while at the same time, going to the farm to do the chores. That is the year we moved to the farm. I was always a bit jealous that she got to leave part way through the day! I always wanted to be her, just so I could spend time with Grandpa!

Caroline did an awesome job reminding us of fun stories at the family reunion. We talked about hand-stacked hay. Grandpa never really minded us playing on a haystack that was hand-stacked. But the minute we had a machine stacked pile, we were never supposed to be near it! I also loved the memories of the warm milk. I'd hear, "Would you like to see stars? Just as I would be squirted in the eye with some fresh milk - straight from the cow." We learned to NEVER put our tongue on the cooling pipe that came out of the ceiling into the big holding tank! It was a lesson learned FROM doing it, because even when told, the frost on a hot day was just too irresistible!

I remember the ice box that held all kinds of farm trinkets, along with the old fridge that held medicine for the cows, and cold water for us to drink.

I remember feeding the baby calves. Their long tongues reaching out to grab the bottle nipples. It was important to hold on tight to the lids so the calves didn't pull them off and let all the milk run out.

Such good memories! I have a bundle more. I'll have to write them down when I get some more time!

Thanks - Grandpa Schuyler Bentley Everett for being you!

Oh, What Do You Do in the Summertime?

2010-06-26T11:16:00.000-07:00

One of my summer projects was to go through a box and organize it. Well, I found this Character Sketch that I wrote for Renee' Hazen's 9th Grade Honors English class. I remember how much I enjoyed writing this short paper. So, here is my memory of Robbie playing baseball. For some reason, when I think of him playing, I don't see him playing on the ball field at Pine View. My mind's eye takes me instead to the field on the North/West side of the Sun Bowl.

A Proud Pine View Panther

The Dixie sun’s blinding glare isn’t blocked by the stubby green grass or the red dirt of the ball diamond; so Robbie shifts the black visor on his cap which outlines the smooth neckline of his neat, short hair. Bronze cheeks set off Robbie’s taught jaw and straight white teeth. A determined glance proves that his true blue eyes are going to help get this job done!

The maroon shirt he fills is centered with a big number eight on the back and Pine View proudly visible on the front. Surprisingly clean, white pants perfectly fit his thin hips ending midway down his legs where black stirrups are set inside well-worn baseball cleats.

Robbie quickly straps his hand into a batters glove and opens and closes it to ensure the gloves perfect fit. Robbie tests the position of his feet in the soft sandy grooves of the batters box. Muscles bulge the terrain in his arms and hands as the bat, now steadied is positioned behind his head. His whipping swing breaks through a fastball, sending a hard line drive squeaking just inside third base. Involuntarily he drops his bat and with agile quick steps sprints to first base.

Counting Down the 12 Days

2009-12-22T16:07:00.000-08:00

As has been a family tradition since I was a kid, we are again doing the 12 Days of Christmas for two families in our ward. Sione caught this spirit when as newly weds, we helped out with the annual Everett Family 12 Days of Christmas - that year for Helen Shurtliff, and she kept calling out, "Thank you whoever you are!" He realized the great delight that came to her and he was hooked! That tradition went down in history for the Toluta'u family to continue. (Helen Shurtliff has a double relationship with our Everett Family. She is a Bentley cousin of Grandpa Schuyler and was a mission companion for Grandma Ida. - There is quite possibly no other person on this earth that has this type of link to Robert and Janet!)

This year we are doing it for two families with young children. They are harder to do! They are more agile and quick to the door! They are also very observant and ask lots of questions of our kids at church. We hope that we can keep our service a surprise and allow everyone to delight in the reason for the season! This type of service has been a great benefit for our family! We need to remember the delight in GIVING and the joy in DOING for others.

We are most thankful for our many wonderful blessings at this glorious time of year and reflect on our Savior - the GREATEST GIFT EVER!

'Til We Meet Again!

2009-10-05T04:57:00.000-07:00

It is 6:00 a.m. on Monday, October 5, 2009. Elder and Sister Everett are loading the travel van as we speak. They will not fly until around 9:30 a.m.

So about 5:50 a.m. on Friday, I got a phone call from Dad. He said, "So are you watching the BYU Football game tonight?"

I said, "Yes - did you want to come watch it with us?"

No, he said, "We have something else in mind, if you wouldn't mind."

Then he told me about their Australia mission conference that would be held in American Fork.

So happily, I headed up 9th East as if I were a faithful game goer and waited for Dad and Mom to emerge from the MTC. Before long, there they were! Mom had on her gray puffy sleeve suit and looked great! It was so fun to see them again! They are sooooo happy!

While on the way to American Fork I heard stories of attending the temple, and other couple missionaries and their faithful service. Couples at the MTC this week have also served missions. Dad and Mom are amazed at their faith and dedication. Mom was amazed to meet a guy she played in the Tooele High School Band with, that was not a member of the church. He is there serving another mission. Dad told me of a single sister that is out again - and this time off to South Africa. Adventures await! They told me about the devotionals, the talks, and their faith building teachers. It has been a great week for them!

At the mission conference Dad and Mom were able to meet some favorite people from their mission. The new Adelaide Temple President and his wife were there. He's in America to attend Conference. He used to be in the Mission Presidency. There were a few Elders that Dad and Mom knew. Dad was impressed with the dedication of one of the Elders from a small town in Idaho. He had been a bull rider. He used this experience to teach while a missionary. He explained that you don't just get on a bull and hope to ride. "That just wouldn't be pretty!" You have to work at it, and learn and practice, just like about anything else. With dedication and determination, you could become good at it - with time and practice.

Then it was off to the Lindon Wal-Mart to gather up some forgotten necessities! Eye drops for Dad and BLUE TAPE for Mom! (Just in case you were all wondering, it can't be just any blue tape! It HAS to be "Duck" tape with a white inside section, and mid-strength if you want it to stick! And Mom would know!) As we waited in line, Dad was already striking up conversation with the people around us and getting to know them better! He is so excited to share what he knows!

Dad and Mom said to let everyone know that they really love them! They said it was hard to say good-bye, but that they would love to get a letter from everyone!

All to soon, it was time to drop Dad and Mom off. Since I was waiting for traffic, I took occasion to watch Dad and Mom's silouette walk off arm in arm through bright and then dim lights of the MTC outdoor walkways as they headed back to their dorm. I watched until they were not able to be seen. I hadn't really noticed before that they are the same height.

May God be With You Dad and Mom until we meet again! Enjoy the Emerald Isle! Mom said we can count down their return based on General Conferences. Not a bad idea!

With Wondering Awe - The Island Gals SAW!

2009-09-30T22:06:00.000-07:00

So, while out doing some church work at 7:45 p.m. tonight, we happened to be passing by the MTC when Litia said, "We need to keep our eyes peeled for a Grandpa and Grandma sighting!" When What to Our Wondering Eyes Should Appear? But a gray haired couple walking arm in arm around their corner of the MTC on the way back to their dorm after an evening stroll. Litia went balistic! "Mom, you just have to stop! You just have to! We want to prove it to them that we actually saw them!"

Kalina was in the back seat making high pitched screeches of, "I can't believe it! I just can't believe it!"

So, we turned down the stadium street, went into the parking lot of the church that shares property with the MTC, stopped the van, and jumped out to holler, "Elder and Sister Everett!" for the second time in three days! They looked up, were shocked . . . again, and actually walked over to say, "Hello!" to the girls, through the gate.

Dad and Mom look great! They are very happy and CONTENT! They said they have been kept very busy. They teach a lot of 'lessons' and enjoyed the fireside last evening a great deal. They said this was their first chance to get out for a walk. (After the crazy weather we've had today, it was a pleasant evening - autumn crisp and perfect!) Everyone said, "I love you!" and it was back inside the van for us.

We were shocked that we had just had that amazing experience! Litia said, "It was meant to be!" Long sigh, "It was just meant to be! I get to be the first one to tell Dad and Fotu since it was MY idea!"

Kalina commented, "I have such a good feeling in my heart right now! I just know that I want to serve a mission someday! I was really hoping I would get to see Grandpa and Grandma again before they left! AND I DID! I Can't BELIEVE IT!"

Seneti - not to be outdone whined, "I wanna go mission - too!"

What a fun, happy, and crazy way to end the day! We will chalk that experience up as a kind tender mercy of the Lord!

Grandpa and Grandma, "May God Be With You 'Til We Meet Again!" We LOVE you!

Let the Mountains Shout for JOY!

2009-09-28T23:51:00.000-07:00

September 28, 2009 will officially go down in my memories as one of great JOY! It was a sweet delight to accompany Dad and Mom to the MTC this morning! The mountains were bathed in Autumn sunlight and adorned with bursting red. Squaw peak stood out above the temple with distinct shadows and brilliance! What a beautiful day to be alive! As Sione drove the van onto 9th East, Dad said, "Can't this rig go any faster?" Dad and Mom had smiles on their faces so wide you would have thought they were kids in a candy store! I have NEVER seen them so happy and excited!

Mom mentioned, "I am so glad this day has finally arrived! If we had had to wait a moment longer, I would have called the whole thing off!"

The front of the MTC was EMPTY. The gentleman who hopped up to help us invited us to take some pictures in front of the MTC since NOBODY was around!

Calling all Couples! You are needed now more than ever! Sione and I offered our missionary services, but wondered if our little Seneti could tag along. The answer was an affirming, "NOT NOW!" Then we drove around to the Jacob Hamblin building! (How fitting!)

Sione drove right up on the sidewalk - next to the outside door, and we all got out - against Mom's "Rule Abiding" desires. Seneti helped hold the handle of Grandpa's bags as we walked up the stairs to get them situated into their humble abode! Sione man-handled the rest of the bags and grandpa checked the car one last time.

Man, I forgot how much baggage a missionary carries around! (Not to mention 2!)

Seneti said, "Grandpa (the loving name she has christened Grandma - not to be confused with Grandpa-pa which is really Grandpa) you bed is funny." That is because the bed had all the linen folded neatly, but was not made. They have a south facing window, a double sided closet, a small desk with two chairs, a sink, mirror and small bathroom. I remembered that this was the same building I did my Celestial Service in when at the MTC. Dad remembered that it is the same building where he worked as a custodian when we were living in Provo.

We gave happy, content buttermilk hugs and walked down the stairs just as Dad and Mom were getting out the ironing board!

Called to Serve - and TIME TO WORK! Oh, how jealous I felt!

As Sione was dropping me off at work, we noticed that Dad's President Hinckley hat was under the seat in the van. Tucked inside, hidden from view was also a BYU baseball cap. Oh, shucks! We would just have to turn around and get those belongings to their rightful owner! So, back to the MTC we cruised. We bypassed the front desk and went straight back to our unloading spot. Undetected, I made it up to their hall and just as I topped the stairs, I saw a candid moment! Elder and Sister Everett were arm in arm - almost ready to leave the other end of the hall. I called out, "Elder and Sister Everett!" They turned around and I saw NAMETAGS! Official! "Did you want these?" I asked, while holding out the hats. Understatement of the century, if you know anything about the President Hinckley hat!

A minor miracle was underway - Mom and Dad had only returned to their room because Mom had forgotten to take their medical papers with them on their first trip out the door. Dad acknowledged that both members of the companionship had been a bit forgetful already and that they'd strive to do better! (Dad rode to the MTC with the hats on his lap!) With a good laugh, an unforgettable memoir in my head, and the lightest heart, filled with the sweetest spirit I've felt in a long time, I bounded down the stairs and back to the mission I am sequestered to for now!

May God be with YOU until we meet again!

Out of the Mouth of Babes!

2009-07-15T05:37:00.000-07:00

How does a two year old going on three figure out all the nuances of our English language? Listening to Seneti in action leaves me speechless! All I can do is laugh! A deep down toenails laugh - might I add! And don't you forget that a few years out from this stage - I help kids with correct speech for a living - and I'm STILL awestruck by the learning a language miracle! How does she figure out grammar tenses? How does she figure out pronouns? She practices, listens, and observes - BUT STILL! Her national test score results for speech acquisition are right up there in the CUTEST EVER range!

Drum roll "peez!" (No 'llllll' yet! - I hope she is not developmentally delayed!)

Some Seneti quote-ables:

1. "?What ya do-in?" To imitate - please notice the question mark smothered at the beginning of the question! Seneti has this tactic down pat! There is no question that she is asking you something! Then you must use your best sing-song teeter-totter vocal pattern. Begin on the lowest note in your range and quickly jump to the highest note, then come down and back up on middle range notes.

2. "?You jus fine?" To imitate - please scrunch up both eyebrows in dramatic 'oh, dear' expressions while at the same time opening your mouth wide to expedite the required quick inhalation of air a millisecond in front of the question posed loudly at the very same high pitch for all three words. She gets a lot of practice with this question at our house! Seneti aspires to be like Joe and John - and is our little medic! She has to come storming dramatically in for a closer look at any casuality - no matter the extent! In fact, just yesterday there are three noteworthy laughable examples of this.

2.a. I was helping Litia with a problem on the bottom of her foot and had her lay on her bed so I could doctor her up in comfort! Litia has a low tolerance for 'future' pain - and thought what I was going to do would cause more grief - and was letting the whole world know about it! Seneti (no longer asleep) came bursting through the previously closed door with questions spewing forth as fast as water coming out of a fire hose with the beginning one being, "?Litia, you jus fine?" Seneti doesn't stand back to ask these questions but wants to be an eyeball away from the action.

2.b. Fotu was playing shortstop for the All-Star team at the state tournament. We had stolen some great shade and were enjoying the show. When a hard ground ball was hit closer to third, Fotu jumped out literally level to snag it in his glove and landed hard on his side. Seneti reacted with, "?Totu dead?" Then when he quickly got his bearings and threw the ball to snag the next runner, Seneti with relief stated, "Oh, Totu jus fine!"

2.c. We have a very small garden in the back yard. Seneti helped me pick our first 'Summer Squash' (Oh, Sione - why Summer Squash?). When I handed it to her she screamed, "Oooh" and promptly dropped it. "Mom, this lellow baby has bump owies!" (Exactly Seneti - you and I have a keen understanding!)

3. (Special note: I constantly embarrass Litia - without it even being on my agenda!) Litia had just finished her violin lesson and I was helping get a chair for an elderly grandmother that was coming in to listen to the next lesson. As I left the room, a petite hand found its way into my hand and then Seneti stopping me so she could look up into my face and asked, "???Mom, au you STUPID???" I looked down at her and said, "Nooo, I don't think I am!" Then she pulled her hand out of my hand and pointing with straight conviction at Litia said, "She say it!!!" I started laughing so hard, and Litia had a VERY CONVICTED look on her face. Now I know what Litia says behind my back while I am off embarrassing her!

4. As I was putting Seneti to bed last night, her best delay tactics began with a buttermilk hug (she pats your back or the back of your head with her dainty little hand while doing this) and, "Mom, you my best fwiend in the hoe wor_d!" She knew that would give her a few more minutes of rockin' and huggin' before she'd have to go to sleep!

5. The girls all got a new tiny purse. Litia and Kalina have mirrors. In the van, when the mirrors were discovered Seneti said, "Peeze! I wanna see mysef!"

Edition one must close now. I so enjoy this fun time of year with my kids! I have had a funny observation multiple times this summer. I've run into parents of kids I teach around town and ask them how their Summer is going. They have ALL reflected on how ready they are for school to begin again so they can have time to themselves. I have always reflected on how much easier it is to take care of 4 kids than 27 or 28 kids! Summer time - hold on as long as you can!

I Hope They Call Me On a Mission!

2009-07-08T20:49:00.000-07:00

Oh, the joy of telephone conferencing when a fat oversized white envelope is about to be opened! There was Mom, silently speed-reading ahead on the paper signed by Pres. Thomas S. Monson (in blue ink) and leaving all of us in her wake - even Dad! She always has been one to need to know every detail - even if we are left behind! She was crying before we could hear an audible - "Oh, my goodness!" BUT - that was a: GIVEN! It took some prompting from Dad - "So, where is it?" - before we heard the cracked and happy teared voice of Mom say: Ireland, Dublin! ! ! ! ! ! ! Nobody predicted that one! Mom came in as the closest 'guesser' having picked Scotland. At least as far as I know.

So off to the Emerald Isle they go! I am so happy for them! Mom asked, "Do they speak English?" I replied, "Yes, but you won't understand it!"

And to think that Fotu spent so much time trying to find an island that spoke English to put down as his mission "guess!" Oh, how could he miss such an island?

You should hear Seneti say, "Dubin! I-an!" It is the cutest thing! She asked, "Can I come with 'em peez? OK?"

Wow Dad! You have really outdone yourself now! Taking Mom on an 18 month Island cruise sounds like you are treating her like your queen for sure! And you didn't even tip her upside down this time! I hope you meet some amazing people who are ready to receive the gospel message! I hope you cherish every day that you have together while serving there! The people I know who have served there LOVED IT DEARLY! We will miss you, but are so excited for you!

Called to Serve Him! I have a twinge of jealousy in my soul? Oh, how I would love to serve an official mission again! I'm looking forward to the day!

While I'm waiting on that day, I better enjoy the mission I'm serving right now! I help run an MTC! It just happens to be family style! Crazy, wild and certainly unorganized, but MTC non the less! I've got work to do, to be better at the work there is to do in that regard!

Tonight for Mutual, we had the theme of Missionary Preparation. I was asked to teach the youth about leading music. Oh, the flood of memories that come back to me! Music and mission go hand in hand for me! Who would have ever known that I would need to play music so difficult that it would be beyond my ability and make Joe and Misha stretch their skill. The music still needed to be played, so we pooled our resources and came up with a plan. It was called the Treble Clef - Bass Clef duet with the four hands and minimum skills of Hna. Hatch and Hna. Everett. We got by without anyone knowing it wasn't supposed to be that way! (Except our mission president.) It sounded like it was supposed to in the end!

That reminds me of the time Dad told our family that he had lead the music while Mom played the piano while on their mission in Australia and Fotu burst out laughing so hard he was ready to split a gut! Only those who know Dad's musical ability would understand the joke! Can you even imagine! LOL for sure!

I distinctly remember being asked by Pres. Pratt if I would like to do my mission over. I told him, "No way! But, I would give anything to keep on going from here!" I didn't want to go home! I was allowed to extend one transfer and I cherished every moment!

I hope this is a mission to cherish for Dad and Mom!

"Grandma and Grandpa are going away on a mission!" Can you think of anything more exciting?

Come Follow Me!

2009-04-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Late last evening Kalina was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by her dad. The baptism was at 9:00 p.m. and was held at our Stake Center. This is the small spotlight about her that was printed in the program: 'In the light of the St. George Temple and before the Dixie Sun had a chance to smile down on the springtime beauty of March 2001, our happy Kalina announced her turn on earth and became a member of our eternal family. Kalina LOVES life! She has a special gift of finding JOY in everything! She has a deep love for family and friends. Kalina enjoys singing, art, reading, writing letters, swimming, ice skating, soccer, softball, tennis, camping, and hiking. Kalina loves the Savior and the scriptures. As she was preparing for her baptism she said, "I am so excited for my baptism! I've been waiting for it my whole life!" We love you very much Kalina and are very glad you are in our family!'

People in attendance were: Uncle Talikavili, Aunt Louisa, cousin Atelaite and her husband Samu and their young son Loketi. Grandma and Grandpa Everett were there along with Ephraim, Brenda and Madilyn; Selma, Josie, and Ellie; Martha, Anna, and Addi; Rachel, Riley Jo, and Kinley Drew; Misha; and Ida. Friends from our ward were Paula, Va, Viliami, Fatai, Simote, Noah, and Anau Mounga and Ofa, Ulu, Koli, Siousi, Daniela, and Sesi Palu. It was very kind of them all to come and support us.

Dad conducted the meeting. Fotu played the prelude and interlude music. Misha played the piano while Selma lead the music. Ida gave the opening prayer. Grandpa Everett spoke about Baptism and gave Kalina a beautiful puzzle called, "Hand in Hand." It has a picture of a little girl that looks a lot like Kalina holding the Savior's hand. Uncle Talikavili spoke about the Holy Ghost. He did a wonderful job speaking in English. Then the baptism happened. Kalina looked so beautiful. She had her hair in little while elastics around the crown of her hair. Then it was pulled back in a pony tail (messy bun looking because of her curls) and there was a pretty white flower. Kalina was wearing her bracelet and necklace. She had love sparkling in her eyes and a bright smile on her face!

Dad did a wonderful job with the ordinance and Kalina was fully immersed in the water to follow the example of our Savior. It was nice to see so many of our little cousins gather closely to see the baptism. Kalina dressed carefully into her new white dress that has a beautiful lace pattern. Kalina then received the gift of the Holy Ghost. Then Kalina and her two other 8 year old cousins sang, "When I am Baptized." Litia played the violin and I played the piano. Then Kalina bore her testimony. It was very simple and sweet. The closing prayer was given my Grandma Everett.

It was then time to head home and enjoy the evening and night with family and especially cousins.

As we were driving across town to arrive at the baptism, the Y was lit up on the hill. Kalina said, "Oh, look, my prayers were answered! They lit the Y just for me!" I said, "Well, they light the Y for graduation." Kalina said, "Oh, I thought they just lit it for special occasions like my baptism!" Then I said, "Yep, they must!" Kalina is so full of love and focused JOY!

Sing, Sing a Song!

2009-04-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Kalina has been in our 3rd Grade choir this year because she is in a 2nd/3rd split class and was invited. She loves to go to choir and learn the fun songs they perform. Miss Dickson is a great director that has a fun time with the children. This past week was their performance. There are always musical instruments and funny songs that make the audience laugh. Her favorite song has a beautiful melody called, "Oh, How Lovely is the Evening." Other songs they sang were, Old Farmer Brown had a Cow; The Cat Came Back; and Knick-Knack Paddy Whack.

Kalina is so excited to be 8 and loves going to activity days. She can't wait for her baptism. She is a happy helper around our home and is becoming a better reader all the time. Keep up the great work Kalina!

Shine On!

2009-04-16T08:27:00.000-07:00

We awoke to at least 6 inches of snow! We had to pull out the ol' shovel and do the walks. This is "Spring Break!" What is the deal? We are bummed! Now, finally at 9:30 a.m. the sun has broken through and there is a beautiful blue sky overhead! Shine on sunshine, shine on! Get us warmed up around here! So, now the day is a one of a kinder! There is beauty in the color exchanges of the white in contrast. The poor daffodils and tulips are COVERED and we have so enjoyed having them bloom in their full wonder!

This morning as I was helping Seneti get breakfast, she saw the hard boiled eggs and decided that she wanted to open her egg by herself. So, she got cracking and then with her dainty little fingers, she began peeling off little pieces of shell. This took a great deal of time and energy for such a little friend, but she stuck with it. The expressions on her face as she concentrated on her task kept me cracked up the entire time. Her eyes would go a bit cross-eyed as she got to a tiny piece. It was fun to see her so determined to complete a task. Seneti is a fun little friend to have in our home. Her morning koala hugs can go on and on. She hugs so tightly that you can walk around without even holding her and she will still stay attached to you. (Thus the Koala hug name.)

Seneti wakes up each morning, wondering where every person in the family is. She has to make sure that dad hasn't gone to work early, because that always makes her sad. She has to make sure that she sees every person on her list. If Dad and Fotu are gone to scout camp, she has to know exactly where they are and wants to know when they are coming back.

When the kids come back from an activity they have left home for, Seneti goes running up to them with her arms open wide. She is the most excited about having her family together. She is still very sad every morning when most of us head off to school. She cries. She needs a hug and kiss from everyone. She stands at the front window and waves wildly. She wants the rest of us to stop the car in front of the house and wave back to her before we move on. These rituals she has created endear her to us deeply!

At this moment, she is putting on long sleeve shirt number three (she must be cold) and carrying around an old phone at the same time. She is always a busy little soul! She keeps us hopping!

Oh, how fun it is to have time in the morning with my kids and do regular mommy things and enjoy the pleasure that the kids bring into my life. It is so much better than running off to work. I am enjoying and have needed this break! It takes this type of experience to appreciate the important and little things in my life.

Togetherness

2009-04-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well folks, it is Spring Break! Yes! Taxes are complete and all is well at the foot of Y mountain, except that it is snowing profoundly! What is up with that? I can't believe this weather! It has made it an inside day all the way, since there is so much water in the snow that snow sport is not part of the storm. So . . . what to do with these energetic kidos who continue to have CABIN FEVER?

At this moment, the oldest three kids are having remote control car races on tracks prepared down the hall and around the round about of the kitchen and living room. This was only accomplished after a trip to the dollar store to replenish batteries, and thanks to the remote cars given to us by friends who moved overseas. Siblinghood and tears are getting equal amounts of time in this effort. The big brother knows how to share as long as he gets the strongest car of the bunch. The little sisters know how to turn on the tears when things are not going their way! Don't worry, Seneti and I are doing a great job of being the ref's and before you know it the batteries will run out, or someone will send a car down the steps for instant crash dramatics. Then, we'll be off to different adventures on this snowy day!

It was wonderful to sleep in a bit this morning, and get some projects accomplished that have been on the waiting list! It's not every Wednesday that you can have family time in the middle of the day!

Dancing with the Stars (Twinkle, Twinkle Variety)

2009-04-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

Seneti has taken up dancing. She turns on music (all by herself) and dances her heart out! She loves to tug one of the rest of us into the family room to dance with her whenever possible. She is the funniest when she puts on a long dress from the dress-up box and holds the skirt up with her two hands and twirls and twirls! Many times she will sing along with the kid music and give the funniest facial expressions!

Seneti is coming up with new vocabulary on a daily basis. Just yesterday she came running into my classroom with green gum. I asked her what she had. She said, "Mom, gum is watermelon!" She was right! Today she said, "Ouch! My yittle fingernail! I need band-aid!"

Seneti keeps us laughing and enjoying life!

Dance, Seni, Dance! Dance your heart out!

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

2009-04-04T18:25:00.000-07:00

It is officially the beginning of Softball and Baseball season at our house! We must admit that it is something we enjoy. Sione signed up to be an assistant coach for the girl's softball team and instead the city needed him to assist with Fotu's baseball team. Fotu has decided not to be on the traveling team this year. It was a good experience overall, but because Fotu was not born in the area and didn't arrive at practice as soon as he emerged from the hospital, he is not able to play positions that were given to those that have warmed them from birth. (That is only slightly stretching it!) Fotu became a great home run hitter (way over the fence at times), but he has some skills to hone that he just can't learn if he's not allowed to. Fotu hopes to be on the city team with a great friend he has in our neighborhood.

Kalina is playing up a level so she can be on the same team with Litia. They enjoy softball and should have a fun time!

When It's Springtime in the Rockies!

2009-04-04T18:16:00.001-07:00

Well, what do you know . . . our heater is still ON! Snow is still falling, and a few of our daffodils and tulips have "hatched." (That was what Kalina said about our flowers when she was in kindergarten.) We are worried that the frost will damage the blossoms because we don't have as many as years past, but I hope that patient TIME will still allow them to bloom.

It's one of my favorite times of the year! I love the rebirth of nature! I love bulb flowers. I love to see the first hint of spring green on the twigs and branches of trees and bushes. I love to see the Pussy Willows outside my classroom window. I love to see Popcorn blossoms. I love ot get out and play with my family.

Spring brings another love . . . I love Conference Weekend! I love to spend time together with my family listening to the voice of our living prophet and apostles. What wise counsel they give! What wonderful ideas are infused into my heart and soul. How much I want to have my own rebirth of action and improvement!

There is nothing like a fresh start!

Just ONE Voice!

2009-04-04T17:59:00.001-07:00

Litia sang with our elementary concert choir at the tabernacle on March 31st. Every elementary school in the district sang one number independently. They did a wonderful job. The parts were delightful! Then, at the very end of the concert every child gathered at the front of the tabernacle and up in the balcony to sing two numbers together! There were hundreds of children singing! WOW! What an experience! I could just barely see Litia, but she was one voice adding to the miraculous sound! What a full, rich, wonderful sound they made!

Litia is a busy young lady! She went straight to violin lessons at 3:15 and with only a bathroom and drink break continued on with orchestra class at 4:00. I picked her up to change clothes at 5:00 and had her eat a sandwich on the way to the tabernacle. She practiced with the choir and then performed. We didn't make it home until 9:20 because we helped clean up. She had homework and didn't get to be until after 10:30. Needless to say, I didn't have her attend early morning choir practice the next morning.

The Provo Tabernacle is the very place that I sang with the BYU Children's Choir when I was in 7th Grade. It is an experience I will always remember. My very favorite memory is singing with a whole orchestra that had timpani drums right close to where I was standing. We sang the new primary songs by K. Newell Dayley, "I Feel My Savior's Love and Every Star is Different and So is Every Child," while he directed us. To this day when I hear either of those songs, I still have the entire orchestra playing along with the music, and the added emphasis of timpani drums echoing in my soul.

Just a Little Science!

2009-04-04T17:08:00.000-07:00

On March 24th, Fotu attended the Central Utah Science and Engineering Fair at BYU. When I went to pick him up at the conference room to attend the award ceremony with him, he came racing down the stairs and piled into the van saying, "Mom, that was a lot of fun! No matter what happens . . . that was a great day!"

Then he excitedly told me about climbing the rock wall three times (in his suit - minus the coat and tie) bare footed and getting all the way to the top where he could ring the bell. This was quite amazing to me since when we were in Salt Lake, Fotu was scared to death of being on top of the Conference Center and was hugging the wall! I guess the difference was that when he was climbing the rock wall he was inches away from what he felt was security!

Background: Fotu won our elementary fair and then did not earn any award for our district fair, but was allowed to go on to the next level. He was very distraught and decided that he just didn't want to do it! I explained to him that science fairs are very subjective and that the experience alone would be fun and interesting. Since he's done it before and enjoyed it, he finally decided to fill out the paperwork, write and edit his proposal and turn everything in.

So, when he made the comment stated above, I was very pleased that Fotu had enjoyed the day and grown from the experience.

Cosmo presented the awards and Fotu was excited - yet again - for the chance to hang out with Cosmo! Fotu was tense during the 4th Place Awards. (All the different categories made for about 10 awards in each place.) Then during the 3rd Place Awards he began to relax. And by the 1st Place Awards he whispered, "It's OK, Mom!" While he stretched out and came to realize that his Science Fair experience was over.

Oh, BUT WAIT! There were still 5 HUGE trophies coming out from under the table covering. 10 National Junior Scientists were named. Fotu was called for Life Science. He quickly jerked upright and with jaw dropping and buggy eyed he walked up to the stage.

Then it was announced that there would be 5 Grand Champions awarded. Fotu was named the Grand Champion of Life Sciences. He earned a cash award of $50.00 - that he is very proud of!

The botany professor talked with me afterward and said that there is potentially great interest in medical research based on Fotu's research and had us talk with his secretary for future communication purposes.

Fotu wanted to know why people were not doing more to prevent Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome) instead of working to fix it after had already happened. His research noted that there has been a 500% increase in the problem since the launch of the "Back to Bed" campaign to prevent SIDS. Although this has decreased the number of infant deaths due to SID related causes, it has created a much greater problem with Plagiocephaly, especially with premature infants whose skull is still maturing and much softer, and even more with those who have a health condition that does not allow them to be held.

Fotu first learned about this when Seneti was born premature. He read a pamphlet and said, "That's dumb! Why don't they just put the babies on a different surface?" So, he went about figuring out some different surfaces. He of course did not have permission to use live infants, so that was a limiting factor in his experimentation process, but he still used a great deal of creativity to figure out a way to prove his point.

Way to go Fotu! I hope you know that my favorite part of the day was the talk we had that evening about how you had said your prayer the night before and told Heavenly Father that you wanted to do your best, but that you would be fine with the outcome, no matter what it was! You have matured a great deal through this process, and I am happy to see you building your life around good choices and learning that you can't always have the outcome you want (like what happened at the district level), but that you didn't give up and kept trying! It's just especially nice when the outcome was such a positive experience! Thanks for being a good friend to the younger kids who went and helping them feel comfortable and get what they needed throughout the day. Your example to them is also a great part of what you did! Keep up the great work!

We Thank Thee Oh, God for a Prophet!

2009-03-23T19:35:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, March 18th, 2009, Fotu was one of the four docents (narrators) for his 6th Grade play, "IN THE MIDST OF WAR." Our entire family was able to attend and then right after the play we went to the Citizenship Ceremony for Sione. We got home in time for a nice family dinner and then rushed Fotu back to school to participate in the play for the evening performance. Sione took Litia and Kalina with him to the church for meetings. Seneti and I went to the play to watch Fotu.

Since Fotu needed to be there early and we didn't want to waste gas, Seneti and I were already stationed at our spot on the steps. (The audience sits on the stage and stage steps while the performance is down on the gym floor level.) There were probably no more than 15 people in the audience. Within a few minutes Grandma Monson arrived and took her seat. That is when I knew who was coming:). I quickly realized that we were in a great spot. We were out of the way, but could see everything! I knew that the youth needed a chance to speak with President Monson, and that Grandfather Monson had come because he was a Grandfather! I even heard my own mind whisper - "Just let him be a grandpa!"

The people who knew what was going on stood up. And while still standing, President Monson turned to the young men around him and said, "You will serve missions!" He extended his hand in greeting and handshake to all that were present.

Then he teasingly said to a grandfather, "You will serve a mission as well!" The grandfather reported back that he had already served his missions and they had a happy exchange about where those missions had been.

Then, President Monson mentioned that there was no red line on the edge of the top step where he was to be seated, and he was concerned that you couldn't differentiate the colors of the top stair and the stage. He said, "Someone is liable to fall on their kanoodle!"

The custodian said, "We will put a red line on the edge of the stage." Pres. Monson said, "Let it be spoken. Let it be done!"

Then Pres. Monson's son asked him to take his seat, but Pres. Monson wasn't quite ready yet. He had just spotted a darling little 2 year old girl dressed in bright blue and wearing pony tails dancing to the darling Jitterbug music that had just begun on the loudspeaker. "And where do you get all your boundless energy honey?" he asked Seneti.

Pres. Monson's son who knows our family said, "Her energy comes from being half Tongan!"

"Well, I bet you sleep like a rock when you finally go down at night! What is your name sweet sister?" Pres. Monson asked her. Seneti stopped dancing and looked up, up, up into Pres. Monson's eyes and face. He is very tall already and was standing two steps above where we were. Seneti whispered, "Seni." Since Pres. Monson couldn't hear her, I answered, "Seneti."

Then Pres. Monson continued. "What have you been doing today?" Seneti just smiled. I said, "Well, she went to watch her daddy become an American Citizen."

Pres. Monson said, "Oh really, from where?"

Pres. Monson's son said, "Dad, from Tonga." (Realizing that his father had missed the explanation of Seneti being half Tongan.)

Pres. Monson said, "Malo e lelei!" Then he spoke two other polynesian island language greetings and said, "I don't reckon you know those languages yet!"

I said, "Not quite yet!"

President Monson said, "Where is that papa?"

I said, "He's at bishopric's meeting."

President Monson said, "We wouldn't want him to miss out on the young folks acting!"

We quickly explained that Dad had seen the play this morning.

President Monson said, "That's good. Very good. Thanks for talking with me young lady!"

Then, he sat down.

A sweet family of a different faith was sitting in front of us and asked, "What is all this excitement about?"

I said, "That is President Monson of our church."

The mother stated, "Oh, now I understand."

What a feeling of peace, joy, and the spirit had been present with us all day! This experience was the icing on the cake! As I think back to the exchange that was made, I realize that just like the Savior, Pres. Monson is drawn to the little children, as they are drawn to him. Seneti was not at all afraid of him! She loved to look up at him and 'talk' to him and stayed very focused for having so much energy. I loved how Pres. Monson used his "story voice" with her as he is so skilled in doing. It makes listening to him interesting and memorable.

Also I noticed that, Pres. Monson chose to draw us in, when we consciously were staying aside. Teaching by the example of pure love and charity - making others feel important and special is also what I witnessed.

The audience continued to grow and remain reverent. Many YW groups were attending the play and each YW was given the chance to shake the prophet's hand. Looking at their eyes and faces made my night! Like Seneti, they each just gazed into his face, and it was what I saw on their faces that was beautiful!

The play went off without a hitch! Each person played their part tremendously well! The entire experience was reverent and peaceful! Pres. Monson wiped away a tear during the part when his grandson (playing the part of an American soldier) crossed cultural and waring boundaries to bridge the gap of brotherhood on Christmas Eve.

What a wonderful experience to see our mouthpiece for the Lord on earth, take time for family, grandchildren, little children, youth and the rest of us! People and relationships is what it is all about. We are, every one of us, after all, the work and the glory of God! Our Prophet KNOWS exactly that and LIVES it! He definitely LOVES each of us and wants to SHOW us. How thankful we are that the Lord has anointed a Prophet in these very days!

May we HEARKEN (do) as we listen to his voice and then RECEIVE (willingly) what the Lord would have us learn.

AMERICA - God Shed His Grace on Thee!

2009-03-18T23:29:00.000-07:00

It's Official! Sione is a Naturalized CITIZEN of THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA! He laughingly said, "Now I'm Americonga!" We have a new birthdate in our family! A new birth of freedom and responsibility on this March 18th, 2009 for our Dad! Freedom to Vote! Freedom to apply for a United States Passport! Responsibility to bare arms when asked! Responsibility to Vote! Responsibility to participate on jury duty and the like! Oh, the BLESSINGS we have!

WHAT A GREAT DAY! There is nothing like the wonderful feeling of patriotism that comes while being with those who RAISE THEIR RIGHT HAND and are taking and have just taken the Oath of Citizenship in this great country! Sione was sitting only 4 rows in front of us. He had on his dark blue suit with a white shirt and red tie. He looked the part! As he stood, he looked TALLER! (He says that is because all the people around him were so SHORT!) From where I was sitting I could see his HUGE hand perfectly! He raised it LOUD and PROUD! He has been very respectful, but has WAITED PATIENTLY to say the Pledge of Allegiance for the FIRST TIME - TODAY! (A personal choice.) TEARS were glistening from all of us! We listened to a lovely rendition of The Star Spangled Banner and heard two short essays by two 5th Grade boys.

The Honorable Judge was himself a naturalized citizen of America. At age 14 he was working along side his father as a migrant farm worker. They landed on a farm in Franklin Idaho. When the farmer found out his age, he told him that he was welcome to work on weekends and after school, but he was not welcome to work when school was in session. That was the turning point for this Federal Judge. His schooling took him to Utah State, then on to the University of Arizona and while at Law School realized that he could not take the Bar Exam unless he was a citizen. So, he went to work to fix that. Now he is a Federal Court Judge and loves to participate to help others as he was once helped. He respectfully told his story in short detail, and then left the time for those who had just taken the Oath of Citizenship to tell a bit about what they were feeling.

Americans Old and Young (in more ways than one) turned on their tears for what we heard! A young Chinese girl was thankful that she would now have an American passport and travel home to help her father get out of jail for something that he didn't do. Without the American Passport, she would never have the chance to help him, or a chance to leave there after trying. An elderly Bosnian woman who was thankful for America a place of PEACE! (Wow! I would love to hear more of her story!) A middle aged Cuban man that was thankful for the opportunity to TOUCH a Bible at age 30 upon arriving in America - something he was NOT allowed to do before coming here. An Elderly Pakistani Woman that was thankful for the Rule of Law of America! The opportunity to live with people that treated each other with kindness and respect. Even the great chance to speak in a public setting - even invited to - when she was just as regular as the next person. A young Argentine woman who was thankful her daughter would have a chance to grow up and go to great schools and have a chance like the judge. A Bolivian Grandmother that had finally fulfilled her father's dream to come to The Land of Promise and become a citizen here. She has been taught all her life that America will be Great as long as She is GOOD. That America will cease to be GREAT when she ceases to be GOOD! An Australian born Asian was a fun speaker that joked about his culture, but the delight of being an American Citizen since his son was born in America. A New Zealand lady that had her Dream come true after a visit to Disneyland when she was 11. From that moment, she realized that she wanted to have what America has to offer.

Yes! 198 people from 60 countries were made citizens today in Salt Lake City.

As we entered the theatre, a hispanic teenager became the unofficial door holder. I quickly figured out that he hadn't intended to stand by the door holding it open for the throngs of people entering the building, and so I let him know that we would take our turn. He said, "Oh no worries! I can get back in line with my family easier than you can, so I'd be happy to do it." For just under an hour I wrangled Seneti while we were waiting to enter the Theatre. We were lined up numerically next to a sweet hispanic family. They were watching the different needs of people around them and helping out in any way they could. It was genuine brotherhood at its best! As I spoke a little more to them, they told me that it was their Mother that was receiving her citizenship. They were just acting as she had taught them. Seneti was very worked up by the time we settled into our seats. This same family helped entertain her during the ceremony.

What the World Needs Now is an Attitude of Gratitude and an eye for all the good that is going on in this old world around us! We have some very grateful people going to bed tonight!

Thank you America for being so generous! Thank you America for allowing these huddled masses yearning to be free to find a freedom that was not their birthright! There is much that is right about America!

BIG Band - Bananza

2009-03-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Fotu played in the Spring Honor Band at TimpView tonight. Wow! What a melodious sound! It was inspiring and beautiful music. What miracles have come to pass this year! This year Fotu's a trumpeter. He promises that next year it will be percussion. You'll have to stay tuned to find out what he decides. The elementary musicians played first followed by the middle school and high school symphonic bands. At the end, they all played Beethoven's, "Ode to Joy" TOGETHER! That took 3 conductors and a HUGE stage! The sound was phenomenal! BIG band all the way!

Seneti perched herself excitedly on my knee for the entire concert! She was happily entertained for the entire hour! She loves music and watching all the instruments. She loved seeing the string bass players, and kept pointing and saying, "Yook, big Yitia!" (Connection to Litia's violin.)

Today - ALL DAY - I helped rewrite and edit a grant for our school. I'm thankful that on a regular day I'm teaching in a classroom of children! They beat computers, buggle eyes and headaches any day! It's nice to know that what you do on a regular basis is right up your alley and LOTS MORE FUN than other things! Today I feel sorry for professional grant writers, and those who write grants because they must!

Today we heard that Pres. Obama wants to reward good teachers. Now, that ought to be a proposal to read! Who do you think will write up this lovely legislation? Will those writing it ever have the chance to teach according to their own regulations? How will it ever be valid? It will certainly be interesting! Hoop jumping comes to mind. Practice will be held at 4:00 tomorrow afternoon. However, we need not hold our breath! I can imagine that it will take S-o-m-e TIME to get it all written!

Whatever they do, give BAND teachers the raise they've already earned! Have you ever heard someone learning to blow a trumpet? Sick cow comes to mind! Case dismissed!

Kalina's "8" - Let's Celebrate!

2009-03-09T20:38:00.000-07:00

Kalina 'decked out' in her birthday brights today. Just imagine getting a buttermilk hug from a TALL, happy girl in a purple & white polynesian-print adorable blouse, dark hair all a-curl; topped with a dar-lable flower (Caroline fashion). Her eyes were all sparkles! Her smile real & quick to burst out!

Kalina, you are BEAUTIFUL!

You have been waiting for this special day for a very long time! An 8 year old birthday is especially wonderful because of your baptism. Your lacy white dress is ready to go! You know that it represents purity and peace! You know that this special time is for you to fulfill a covenant with our Heavenly Father and become a member of His true church on the earth. You are following the example of our Elder brother Jesus Christ. To be baptized by immersion as He was is a very important and special choice you are making. We are thankful that you understand so much about your baptism day and want to be like our Savior.

Kalina, we love you! We want you to always be happy! We are very thankful that you are part of our family! We love to watch you learn and grow and be such a great friend to everyone!

We think you're great - especially when you're 8!

How Long's it Been? Litia's 10!

2009-03-07T22:40:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that Litia is already 10? March 5, 2009! It's official! That is called - NO FAIR! Whoa! Hold On! S-L-O-W Down! Wait~! Time OUT! W-H-A-T?

It could only have been yesterday that I held the most beautiful, 'little' (by our family standards) bundle of joy in my arms as I gazed in awe out the DIXIE hospital window right through a pink popping blossom-bursting tree with the celestial white Temple as the background. I was overcome by the miracle of such perfectness all buttoned up in miniature, when Sione and Fotu the sporting Dad and Son duet came sauntering in for Fotu to catch the first view of his sister and pass out red roses to their favorite girls! Now if that didn't bring tears? I don't know what would! All dressed up and handsome! My Fotu became a little man that very moment I think! I had never seen him look so BIG - or handsome!

It has been said that we write to taste life twice. I don't think I've even thought of this event of our guys with their roses for many years, until right now when I was reflecting on those first hours with our new Liti Lady-bug.

She was and still is such a beauty. I could gaze into her large dark eyes, framed in long dark lashes for hours on end. Her dark curly hair was precious and easy to make perfect. Oh, how fun it was to have a bow in her hair! Litia hummed. She always had a little song going on. I couldn't get over her dainty details and petite profile. I don't know what I was thinking, but I had been imagining that she would be a lot like Fotu. How could that even be possible? Each precious spirit comes from Heaven with their own personality. I guess I just thought that my kids would be a lot alike. (Now why I would think that is a bit crazy since my own siblings - all 10 of us - are no more exactly the same than the cow jumping over the moon.)

As a few months grew on Litia, I realized that she is a cookie cutter mold of her father. One afternoon Sione and Litia were stretched out sleeping on a quilt on the carpet. Their bodies were in the same pose. One so large, and one so dainty. Yet, feature for feature, they were SO SIMILAR, one masculine, one feminine! Long backs, long legs, long fingers, full lips, large eyes, long lashes, and cute full noses. It is in a moment like this that heaven touches earth and you KNOW that we are created in the image of a loving Heavenly Father and Mother. We belong! We have a place! We KNOW who we are! Creation is a miracle of blessings and joy!

Litia, as you have now completed your 10th year on this earth, I want you to know how much I love you! You are beautiful inside and out. You have been blessed with the gift of music that sings around inside you and has to find a way out. You have been given very athletic abilities. You have a keen mind and sharp whit. You enjoy learning new things and trying out new experiences. We are so glad that you are a member of our family! WE LOVE YOU and are glad that you are part of our family here on earth!

Keep choosing great experiences and friends. Keep doing well in school and with your violin. Do those things that are right and make you TRUELY HAPPY! We are glad that you've been in our family during this decade. Just think - in the next 10 years there will be many different experiences. You will most likely be on your own and although still a part of our family, on your own. Wow! That is what makes me want to whisper - hold on! However, we are on this ride of life together, so I will still say, "Hold On!" - but mean it this way: Hold on to all that is good and right. Hold on to good friends and wonderful traditions. Hold on to the incredible memories we have made together. Hold on to your testimony! Hold on to your brother and sisters! Hold on to your happiness, joy, peace and contentment! Hold on to being the best you, you can ever be!

Lots of love for many 10's to come! Hold ON!

When She's Helping She's Happy!

2009-03-07T22:18:00.001-08:00

That is the theme of my sweet sister Ida! She stopped by Thursday on Litia's birthday and gave her the cutest scripture tote in the world! (Manufactured by Misha of course - and accessorized by Ida of course - 'Cute STAR button!') Then, she invited the girls (birthday twins -Litia & Kalina - two years and four days apart) to BOLT the movie for the next evening.

So, Friday Ida showed up around 4:oo and even invited Fotu to come along. While they were gone, Seneti and I worked on dishes and the laundry. Seneti can play in the sink for hours - and that is NOT exaggerating! She's now just tall enough to turn the faucet on by herself when on tiptoes atop the dining room chair. She remains contentedly perched there as she scientifically rediscovers everything water can do!

When Seneti is helping with the laundry, SHE is the sole operator of the hot air tumbler. She wants to be the one to open the door, add all clothing garments, put in the fabric softener sheets, and close the door! She wants to turn the knob and set the start button! It is one of the most darling rituals this side of Slate Canyon! Although it takes at least 5 times as long to accomplish as normal, I just remind myself that this is an act of love on her part and know that someday I will want her willing desire to serve and the time we've spent to be back! I just savor every second! My payback tonight was, "I Wuv You, Mom!" stated on her own (without any prompting) for the very first time in recorded Earth-life history! It was topped with a koala hug so tight that pinches were part of the deal. Oh, my sweet Seni Girl!

Before you knew it, Smiling Gorgeous Ida and the kids came barging back through the door! They had enjoyed the movie and the time spent together. What great sisters I have! They make everyone feel so important! Thank you for being a happy helper and giving my kids a much deserved retreat! I LOVE YOU!

Dead Dog Tired

2009-02-23T21:05:00.000-08:00

Getting up to get some work done right after the rooster has gone to bed, makes for a LONG day! There is nothing in the world like falling into a deep slumber in the cool of the winter and having the bedding warm your tired bones! When falling asleep to beautiful music, the waves of slumber match time to the rhythm and I'm out before the first song is over. I am thankful for the peace a great rest provides! Good night! Sleep tight! Don't let the bedbugs bite!

SIONE has . . .

2009-02-23T20:47:00.000-08:00

A unique kind of enduring patience

Daddy written in his heart and actions

Fatherly pride

Seneti wrapped around his little finger (what he lets her get away with!!)

Biceps as big as trees!

Island Man pride

Love for the Islands

Love for God

Desire to serve

Love for Family

a hard working spirit

Love for HIS GIRLS

a "Be Better, through Action, not Words" attitude

High Expectations

A love for the Promised Land of America

Athletic Abilities

Scout Leader Memories

Friendliness for others

Strong opinions

A keen mathematical & logical mind

Served a mission

understanding of scriptures

a competitive edge

Laughter that comes from his toenails

A mustache

A grin that sends sparkles to his eyes

A melodious rich tenor voice

Fast moving fingers on the ukulele

WIDE HUGE feet

Stature! -

Loyalty

Determination

Courage

LOVE

Friendship that endures

SENETI Has . . .

2009-02-06T05:51:00.000-08:00

Seneti has . . .

fight (she was born with it)

koala hang-on hugs (watch out - she can really dig in)

shadow stalking abilities (she links up with her dad's all the time!)

slender long fingers and dainty tendencies

a passion for speech (we work hard to understand her linguistic attempts)

two year old wonder bursting forth from her slender self

"I yuv daddy" popping out for the first time today

TIME

desire to go along whenever anyone goes anywhere

blondish straightish hair (an ab-norm for our family)

bangs (darling . . . BUT too grown up)

twinkles in her eyes

a deep chortling laugh for such a petite frame

joy of jumping (on the trampoline)

hours of playing (especially when it's in the little kitchen in the shade of our evergreen and close by the garden where she can get plenty of mud)

enjoyment of nature and the outdoor world (a cooped up winter is hard on her)

determination to be a big kid (she wants to be just like her sisters)

FUN

**tiny dainty circles that find their way out of her inner creativity whenever she finds a writing tool of any variety - and those tiny dainties end up all over ANY surface - OHHHH! Mural beautiful for sure! (Thank goodness we have found the Magic Eraser.)

**HUH? set into a long deep roller coaster response when she chooses not to listen, but then on second thought decides that what you just said may be something she'd like to hear again - just in case she was wrong!

**The look - and cheerfulness - after a long nap

** A bit of an Eyore personality most of the time

**Big Chocolate M& M eyes

Long - WIDE feet

The idea that shoes and socks were never meant to be ON - Barefoot all the way!

A desire to say EVERY prayer aloud that is to be spoken in the family

Dishwashing ability - or is it love of water and mess?

Command of nursery

Joy of singing and actions

Out Loud Commentaries (During the quiet of Sacrament Meeting) "Hi, Daddy!"

A faucet for a nose!

OUR ATTENTION!

Litia just told me, "Mom, I'm so glad Seneti came to our family! She always makes us laugh!" I agree 200%! What LIFE she has brought to our life!

Seneti, We love you!

The Morning Breaks

2009-02-05T05:15:00.000-08:00

There is nothing in the world quite like watching snow entrenched Mount Timpanogos licked only on the tippy-top with first lights golden rays! When wispy clouds gather in the empty spaces and brighten to baby-soft pink, I know Heavenly Father has just granted an "I'm thinking of you and glad you're around" kind of morning hug that warms my soul and brightens my whole day! We are so blessed to be driving to school (a job we are so thankful to have during these times) and watch the spire of the Provo Temple aglow from that same energy. The strategic location of the temple in the early path of morning's glory, while the rest of the valley is sitting in shadows cast from the stately Wasatch Range, is a blessing to those of us who look there daily for peace and comfort and to renew a quick reminder that there is beauty all around, that God is watching over us, that someone cares and wants us to have a wonderful day! We are soooo blessed!

Ring Out Wild Bells!

2008-12-31T16:52:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

Our family will be attending our Tongan Ward dance in a few minutes. It is a tradition to gather as families and welcome in the new year with music and dance.

2008 has been a good year in our family!

My favorite happening had to be Fotu's 12th birthday. It was the day he received the priesthood in the early morn at the farm. This was one year and a few days after the death of Grandpa Fotu. Then we went to the St. George Temple and Fotu was baptized for Grandpa Fotu. Grandpa Robert Everett, Uncle Robbie, and Cousin Taylor were there to witness and help with the confirmation. What a special day for our family! I was baptized for Grandma Faumotu and Great Grandma.

Sione was promised in his patriarchal blessing that he would someday baptize his parents. He wondered how that promise would be fulfilled in this lifetime. He now realizes that it was a promise that would be fulfilled in his lifetime, but would be part of the next life for his mother and father. Now it is their choice to accept the work provided for them.

I am thankful for the wonderful companions that my youngest sisters found this year. Misha found Joe and Ida found John. We wish them the very best in their futures. (Misha just let us know on Christmas day that she is expecting a new babe in the summer. Congratulations!)

I've been very touched by the new lives added to our family this year. Robbie and Kathy have an adorable new baby girl names Madison. She is affectionately known as Phuzzy (on account of her sprouting hair.) She is native Alaskan and was sealed to Robbie and Kathy in the St. George Temple in May. What a tender place she will always have in our hearts!

Rachel and Kody welcomed a beautiful baby daughter Kinley on Thanksgiving Eve. We have a great deal to be thankful for!

2009 - Doesn't that sound weird?

Fotu just informed me today that he must be getting old. When I asked him why he thought this, he said, "Well, when I was little each day seemed like a year. Now, each year seems like a day!" I didn't know that sensation came at the ripe old age of 12! I KNOW all about that sensation of TIME travel, but I thought it came later in life!

Our wish for each family and friend we know and love is that this year can be one where we find the best in every experience, look for the LOVE that so readily surrounds us, share our talents with those around us, and count our many, many blessings.

There is Sunshine in My Soul!

2008-12-24T08:05:00.000-08:00

` 9:03 a.m. The sun just streaked out from behind the Slate Canyon mountains. Oh, Happy Day! I have missed you my friend! As we open a chapter of Christmas 2008, there is no better way to welcome Christmas Eve Day than to bask in the warmth and happiness of LIGHT!

I hope that our family will welcome room for "The Son" in our hearts and home as the sun so welcomed me on this BEAUTIFUL new day!

White - reflects light. I noticed this over and over as we have been digging out of all the snow that has fallen on our neighborhood. White represents purity. My hope is that I will be pure enough to reflect the light I have with others.

Ice cycles are natures chandeliers. They absorb and refract light allowing it to dance around in sparkling splendor.

Evergreens laden with snow are natures ornaments.

These are Heavenly Father's Christmas gifts to me this splendid day!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Happy Birthday!

2008-12-24T05:05:00.000-08:00

A time honored tradition in our family since I was a young girl is to gather each December 23rd and have a special evening together. It is to commemorate the birth of the Prophet Joseph Smith. This has become one of my most favorite holiday traditions! Fun. Memorable. Spiritual.

First, we invite a family to share the occasion with us and give them the invitation to begin doing something like this in their own home. When they arrive at our home we have a frontier meal using a karosine lantern for light. Our meal last evening was beef stew with cornbread and or homemade rolls. We had milk or water to drink. Simple. Tasty. Filling.

Next we gather in a circle and sing a hymn about the restoration and have an opening prayer. Then each person tells some facts or a story about the Prophet's life. I have come to notice and realize in my own life and experiences that there is NEVER a time when testimony is shared about the Prophet Joseph that the spirit does not abound in great abundance! Watch this for yourself! Truth. Inspiring. Wonderful.

Kalina told how Joseph loved to play sports and would often stop to play with a group of boys playing baseball. When it was his turn to bat, he would hit the ball so far that they would tease, "We'll just be getting our supper while you find the ball!" She also reminded us of the group of teenage boys that were at the end of their game and tired from playing ball. The prophet invited them to join him in building a house for a widow. The happily went off to work WITH him.

Maia told how he translated the gold plates into The Book of Mormon.

Fotu told a story about Porter Rockwell. He was fishing down by a steam and some older boys came by on horseback and took his fishing pole. It started a tuffle. The Prophet (still a boy, but a little older than Porter) helped work out the entire situation by having Porter side with him and win the fishing pole back by doing a stick pull. The prophet didn't often loose at that!

Kiki gave us facts about his life. He accomplished so many things in such a short life!

Bro. Roos said that Joseph is proof that the heavens are open. That Heavenly Father knows each of us. That He is our Father and loves us. He told us how he loved that Joseph had the courage to followed through and DO what was expected of him, although he wasn't perfect!

Sis. Roos told us that three in the room were going on 14 soon. She reminded us that Joseph was seeking truth on his OWN. She commented about the great faith it took to put the scripture in James to the test. After all, she has worked with the youth for a while and wondered how many use prayer as a source to obtain answers!

Tia Mariana told the facts about the last days and moments in Carthage. We know the event was horrific! We know the Prophet had knowledge of the outcome. We know the Lord spared the life of John Taylor when the bullet struck his pocket watch and he lived to become a future prophet.

Litia told about the children in our family history living in Nauvoo. The older brother called his little sister a "little fool," and pushed her in the mud. The prophet came by, helped her up, got her cleaned off, and sat her on his horse. Then he said, "Missy, you're not a little fool are you?"

I spoke of Emma. I am reminded that we are never to be her judge. We talked about her education, her help, her willingness to do what was required, her hardships. We talked of the children Emma and Joseph had together and how many of them didn't make it in this life. We are so thankful for the knowledge that they will get to raise those dear children in the next life.

Sione is the height and weight of the Prophet. He was no little man! He used his muscle and brain power on many occasions to keep the plates safe. Sione also reminded us that the plates were never given to Joseph until he brought the right person with him. That person ended up being Emma. He also reminded us that heaven expected Joseph's very best in taking care of the sacred manuscript, however, when the occasion was too unsafe, at times an angel would come and retrieve the record, and return it when things were better.

To complete the evening, we have a stick pulling contest, a leg wrestling competition, arm wrestling competition and then eat cake and ice cream. Since we have broken too many brooms over the years, we now have a very thick stick saved just for this occasion.

It is so nice to stop the hustle and bustle of the season and do something that reminds us of things that matter most!

Happy 203 Bro. Joseph! We are thankful to you! We honor the life you lead! Thanks for being willing to do what it took to be the prophet of the restoration!

KALINA has . . .

2008-12-18T22:34:00.000-08:00

Oh, how wonderful that every single person has their specific place in a family! Oh, how wonderful that Heavenly Father created each one of us uniquely different and special.

Kalina has . . .KINDNESS!

Friendships forever!

HUGS!

Endearing Relationships

Memories

A never ending capacity to LOVE!

An intense need to say, "Good bye and I love you!"

Love for the FARM!

Need for Grandma and Grandpa

Closeness to cousins

Spiritual understanding

Charm

A Gorgeous Voice

Lots of Love

Hard work willingness

Delight in helping

Perfect handwriting

Detailed artwork

Perfected Play

Gorgeous giggles

Tight dark never ending curls

Desire to sleep long hours

Athletic ability

Story Telling Talent

Intense desire to live life fully no matter what she's doing

Daddy for a "Best Friend!" (Since Kalina was born, our dad has been the stay at home care giver. Kalina has very rarely had anyone outside her family tend her. She has been her father's little shadow.)

Thanks for coming to our family!

Thanks for being such a great helper and gentle spirit!

Thanks for your inner beauty!

We love you!

You are our Treasure!

LITIA has . . .

2008-12-18T22:13:00.000-08:00

In the time honored tradition of the past few writings, I would like to write about Litia, our oldest daughter and # 2 child in the family.

Litia has . . . been named for a Great Grandmother on both mom and dad's side of the family! (Litia means Lydia)

virtuoso violin technique

Polynesian grace

"A Little Fat Nose!" (When Litia had just begun to talk she called her dad, "Big Fat Nose!" Without a second's breath, he called back, "Come on, Little Fat Nose!" Oh, the terms of endearment around our house! What can you say? A polynesian nose is indeed - at least a little wide!)

glorious rhythm

grit and stick-with-it-ness while playing sports against boys

winning will-power

competitive charm

quick minded thinking

soft - smooth skin

extremely long elegant ebony hair

deep dark gorgeous eyes

asthma altered breathing

outsmarting whit

scriptural understanding

new situation shyness

retelling dramatics

tenderness when tending

bookworm wonder

athletic physique

angelic vocals

famous friends

skiing desire

cuisine creations

basketball brilliance

tetherball talent

sensational soccer moves

Thanks for coming to our home!

Thanks for being willing to be the big sister!

Thanks for your love!

We love you!

You are our treasure!

Let It Snow!

2008-12-12T19:36:00.000-08:00

That's what we hear on the radio today! A hard, cold, winter storm is headed this direction ready to leave a powerful punch! (Even in the valley!) These are not endearing words in my jargon! Provo, city of my birth, is NOT the city of my heart during winter months! I'll leave that to St. George; where I was raised. Indeed the place where the summer sun spends the winter!

Fotu's got it all right! He determined the first year we moved back here to Provo that Heavenly Father should place a little grid up in the sky and allow the snow to fall in all the beautiful and fun places, but withhold it from all the sidewalks and roads where it just causes TROUBLE! Now wouldn't that be splendid! I'd go for that, and then maybe I'd appreciate it just a little more!

One more strike against SNOW should be completely explained in the following phrase - I am a FIRST GRADE TEACHER! Any First Grade Teacher KNOWS EXACTLY WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT! During the winter you have a few extra worries. Is the day too cold to be outside? Is the air quality too poor to be outside? Is the snow falling tooooo wet for 6 year olds to be outside? How many days has it been since we've been able to go outside? (Do you see a pattern here?) OK, so if it is determined that all is well, and the kids will have a chance to release their stir craziness - THEN you get to HELP bundle everyone up so they can even go outside! (Plan on beginning at least 10 minutes before recess should begin, so that recess is NOT ENTIRELY OVER before some of the children even get a chance to go out!) This is an all out attempt at patience! (You should try it sometime.) There are usually no less than five voices calling out at the same time, "Mrs. can you just zip my coat up?" "Mrs. I need help with my gloves! This finger isn't working!" (An A+ shout-out from Early Childhood teachers to the person who invented mittens!) "Mrs. where are my boots?" "Mrs. oh, no! I just went bathroom in my pants!" (And on and on!)

Yet, Snow is one of those - pleasures of childhood! Kids LOVE snow! What child doesn't thrill at and thoroughly enjoy snow? Fotu, Litia, & Kalina bundle up, whoop, holler, angel mold, slide, slip, and drag until they are cold and wet. Then it's inside for taco soup and hot chocolate.

I guess it would have helped - had I GROWN UP in the snow. It must have to grow on you! Snow is also one of those - romantic novelties. Young love and snow seem to always go hand in hand!

Childhood, young love, both places in life when TIME seems to stand still and there is NO need or even desire to have to get anywhere on TIME! So, I guess snow FITS there!

Yep! Snow and Christmas kind of go hand in hand! Sidekicks! I'll admit that Christmas lights in the snow luster with a profound magic! There is more patience for the powdery stuff EVEN IN MY HEART on that special day of love and good will. I don't mind sitting in a nice warm home looking out a picture window at the beautiful flakes falling softly, fluffily down - as long as I have a great book to read, am listening to wonderful music, have a great puzzle to piece, am baking, or am playing with my Seneti.

OK! True confessions time! I ENJOY shoveling snow! It is slightly similar to mucking out the milk house after the cows have done their duty. Slightly. Thankfully the similarity parts at my olfactory nerve. By the time I'm shoveling the storm has usually passed, the air is actually quite warm and clean and the hard work is invigorating.

Although the white style of snow does not leave a sweet taste in my mouth for the most part, the other Snow in my life has a very pleasant connotation. In fact, I like it so much that it became the name of my firstborn son! Down in Southern Utah just north of St. George, there is a State Park named, Snow's Canyon. Yep! Connections! My dad's side has that name flowing in his blood.

Grandma Afton is the oldest SNOW I know alive. Now stooped with age, she still exudes her trademark SPUNK. Grandma grew up in the days of the great depression. She LIVES the jingle: use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without! We are both the eldest sisters in our families, school teachers, duty bound, and even share the same body style.

Some memories I have are: When Caroline was born, Shauna and I spent time at Grandma's house. She took us to Snow's Ranch Market and we talked her into getting us some long flowing silky scarves. We raced around the ground packed basketball court singing from the top of our lungs, "Mamma's comin' home with a new baby sister!" Even now the melody vividly rings out in my mind! Over and over we sang as we danced with the scarves trailing behind us! We did it so much that Uncle Steve and Uncle Wayne took us on wheelbarrow races to get us squealing about something else!

Grandma is scared to death of lightning. It is rumored that she has been known to slide under the bed or hide under her blankets. (This of course is when she was an adult!)

Grandma loves to plant geraniums. She keeps a flower grow box along the length of her carport. She has been an avid gardener in her back yard alongside Grandpa. She has fruit trees and nut trees. These are all things to enhance the family food supply from the farm. She faithfully bottles fruit every year. She always put pineapple in the bottom of each bottle of pears. I've watched my uncles eat an entire quart of pears JUST to enjoy the treat at the bottom.

One day I was at Grandma's house and most of my uncles and even my own father jumped on top of Grandma and wrestled her out of her chair to the ground. I was SCARED spitless! What was going on? It turns out she had a charlie horse and they were just massaging her and trying to get her straightened out.

I'll NEVER forget the BUTTERMILK hugs! Grandma says, "Just come here a minute. Then she would get you in a tight squeeze! I MEAN TIGHT! She doesn't pussy foot around! We could only slightly audible the key phrase, "Buttermilk," by the end which brought the hug to an abrupt halt.

If you need a bit of advice, Grandma has a tidbit of wisdom tucked up inside her head that comes popping out as a jingle, or verse (many learned from childhood.) Grandma also had fun childhood books around (the kind that teach a moral along with a fun story). The Pokey Little Puppy lived at Grandma's house and was read to me so many times that I had it memorized. But that wasn't good enough! I had to have her read it again.

One time for Christmas, I finally found the perfect gift for Grandma. It was a very small figurine of a little girl holding an ice cream cone. It read: "I love you MORE than ice cream." That is hard to do, seeing how Grandma loved ice cream, but it was how I felt and still do!

Grandma has the best bag of blocks, and tinker toys. She is a frugal shopper and buys things that will LAST! You should check our her stash of "solid as a rock" - "metal" Tonka trucks - honestly built to span generations - EVEN THE HYDRAULICS! My kids now play with the very toys my dad played with as a kid!

My favorite cups to drink out of are found in Grandma's southwest cupboard. TIN - it makes cool feel COLD. There is nothing like getting a cold drink of water in Grandma's tin cups.

Enter Grandma's Christmas Day BRUNCH: Our family was always the LAST set of cousins to arrive to eat. Grandma still had bacon, sausage, eggs, toast and juice available. Grandma's tree was always set up on her desk in the South window next to Grandpa's chair. Real live - out of the drawer stockings were hung with a string and clothespins above the fireplace. I'll never forget the year that Uncle Steve got a bunch of coal in his! That was all it took for me to be whooped into shape!

No matter what - Grandma cares about what is going on in our lives! She takes time to listen! She is proud of us! She just plain loves us!

That's the Snow I love and always will!

FOTU has . . .

2008-12-09T23:09:00.000-08:00

Fotu is our oldest son and first born. We chose not to find out if he would be a boy or girl. So, after a very hard labor and delivery and we learned we had a SON - that was the happiest news Sione has ever received! He dropped the camera upon hearing the news (broke it) because he was so "seasick" (his own words) with happiness!

Fotu has . . . TRUE BLUE BLOOD!

handsome features

boiling over laughter

perspective on life and living

pure all-around athletic talent

superb spacial acuity

artistic brains

architectural acuity

music flowing from his soul

rhythm beating in his being

mathematical problem solving prowess

spot-on determination

FRIENDSHIP

Scout "with-it-ness"

Wisdom beyond his years

trumpet bugles (still sounding a bit sick-cowish this first year of learning - but POTENTIAL!)

easy to manage curls when hair is short

Big BROWN m & m eyes

observational awareness

spiritual strength

Truth amid hardship

Taken lots of blame

Polynesian Pride

Football moves

kindness for wee folks and the elderly

Honor for priesthood duties

Spirituality and a testimony of our Savior

Parents who loves him very much!

Fotu

Thanks so much for being you!

Thanks for being a great example to our family!

Thanks for being brave enough to be FIRST!

You are our figure out parenthood kid!

We love you very much!

You are our TREASURE!

Christmas HAS . . . !

2008-12-09T22:47:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I happened upon a children's book that has become a dearly beloved favorite (along with at least a million others). School has LEARN. It is a creative twist on connections made using wordology.

Here is my take on Christmas has . . . :

Christmas has . . .

LOVE

children

nativity plays

costumes

bathrobes

staffs

tinsel

shepherds

sheep

angels

3 Kings - Wise Men

scriptures

family

stories

carols

choirs

sleigh bells

sleighs

wreaths

trees

lights

ornaments

stars

gifts

service

surprises

wonder

stockings

chimneys

fires

goodies

baking

sharing

Christmas Cards

friendships

neighbors

parties

celebration

forgiveness

rebirth

candy canes

bows

ribbons

gift wrap

tape

scissors

closed doors

sewing machine hums

delight

connecting

sisters

laughter

snow - sometimes

family sleep "ins" by the Christmas Tree

flannel jammies

concerts

dances

The Nutcracker

The Grinch

The 12 Days

The Tabernacle Choir

The Lights on Temple Square

Scrooge

The Three Ghosts

Bob Cratchet

The Gift of the Magi

The First Presidency Christmas Devotional

The Prophet Joseph Smith's Birthday Party

Brunch at Grandma's

Blueberry Muffins with topping for breakfast

Cookies and milk left out for Santa

Our own stockings hanging on a sting by a clothespin

Hot cocoa with marshmallows

Eggnog

Nummy Munch

Peanut Brittle

Toffee

Chocolates

Russian Tea (A non-alcoholic warm citric punch)

Elves watching

Santa - the spirit of love, generosity, and childhood wonder

Rudolph

Frosty

Up on the Housetop

Must Be Santa

Rudolph

The Night Before Christmas

Couldn't this go on and on?

I'm very thankful for this time of year and the joys that Christmas brings!

The Bread of Life

2008-12-08T21:47:00.000-08:00

Tonight I made bread for sandwiches to go in lunches tomorrow. The whole wheat has such a nutty flavor! Everyone in our family LOVES it! It is hard to keep it around! I was soooo thankful tonight that I could quickly throw together a batch while doing homework with kids and before Family Home Evening began. My thanks runneth over for a mother who taught basic homemaking skills that are still with me and are being passed on to a new generation. My children will undoubtedly have talents very few around them will have! (Since, it is rare that I can find people my own age that know and foster these skills!)

Litia enjoys cooking. Some other chores are definitely NOT her favorites. Kalina loves helping out any way she can, and cooking is a special favorite! Fotu enjoys cooking, but would much rather have someone else do it for him. We assure him that he can only eat when he contributes to the preparation in some way. The Cooking Merit Badge was the easy byproduct of his newfound desire to help in the kitchen!

Seneti already loves the feel of flour inside her fingers and making her own little rolls to put in the oven on a little tin. She thinks she is already the master of the rolling pin, and although it is so hard to manage, she does very well. A makes a mom burst into giggles while watching her manipulate the huge, heavy tool. A little one would definitely be more up her alley. That is something I did as a child with my mom! Why didn't mom ever let on that our over floured rolls were as HARD AS A ROCK - LITERALLY? Could it be for the very same reason that I allow my kids to create their own bread-granite masterpieces? What could make a child more content or a mother more filled with chuckle?

Bread at Christmas! A symbol of our Savior. We reflect upon His pre-mortal experiences, His birth, His life, His mission, His gifts, His teachings, His Power, His example, His invitation, His kindness, His love, His obedience. That is a lot to ponder! That is a lot to be grateful for! We need Him! Let us make room for Him so we can be filled!

There's No Place Like HOME!

2008-12-08T06:04:00.000-08:00

Last night we were told that Robbie and Kathy's house had caught fire early on Saturday morning, but by the tender mercies of our Heavenly Father, was spared staying on fire. We are so thankful that everyone made it out safe and sound! We hope that they will continue to be blessed as they pick up the pieces. A neighbor's house was on fire, and was a total loss. No wind was blowing (as it usually is) and so, an entire neighborhood was spared!

Mom had just stated to me on the phone the day before that she was thankful that we each had a home and a place to call home (the farm).

Home - a word with so many memories and feelings! Together! Family! Love, comfort, guidance, respect, joy, fun, caring, weathering of hardships, hard work, talents learned, jokes, silly, crazy, surprises, happiness.

Home is as much a state of mind as it is a PLACE! Home is as much a part of Christmas as anything else for me. May we make sure that our homes are filled with the spirit of the Christ Child now and throughout the year!

Sing ON - Choirs of Angels - Sing ON

2008-12-07T15:20:00.000-08:00

Tonight, our family is anticipating the glorious, fill us up with Christmas Spirit, sounds of the Tabernacle Choir. It is time of our annual First Presidency Christmas Devotional . . . a FAVORITE Christmas tradition at our home. How dear to my heart is Christmas music! Any flavor, variety, instrumentality, ability or vocal will be just fine for me! There is still no sensation like being one voice smack dab in the middle of a choir as music envelops you!

Christmas music is superb accompaniment to tiny dancing feet around our home. Seneti was just twirling for all her little body was worth, in the same attire Shauna and I used to wear after church when we still lived in the little green house. Petticoats are still very popular dancing outfits. The only difference was that Dad's briefcase became our special stage! Seneti just uses our little wooden bench. Kalina enjoys getting down with Seneti and steps in stride with little sis to become her ballroom partner! Could any of the moves be the inspiration of Christmas Around the World at BYU that Kalina got to attend on Friday with her 2nd grade class? Undoubtedly! Smiles and delight fill our home this afternoon because of the beautiful strains of Kurt Bestor, cranked up a wee bit too loud for a Sabbath, but who's listening but the Heavenly Choirs who wish they could join us!

It has been so remarkable this past week to play along with Litia to beautiful Christmas Carols as her countermelody duet partner. I never thought I'd be able to play music with my daughter so soon. It has been delightful! The violin and flute are making memories while making melodies this holiday!

Fotu enjoys playing, Away in a Manger, and Joy to the World. He continues to learn new songs and is doing very well on the piano. I enjoy the homemade music produced here along the Slate Canyon foothills.

I pay tribute to all musicians who have ever composed Christmas music! Thanks for sharing your God-given talent so the rest of us can enjoy the peace and beauty that only music can provide! Thanks to those who've authored words; so deep, so wondrous, so appropriate to make the meaning of Christmas music even more profound.

Sing on - choirs of angels - sing on!

Let There Be LIGHT!

2008-12-06T06:19:00.000-08:00

Illumination! What would we do without it? Thank you, thank you, Thomas Eddison! On Dec. 1, 2008 as we set up the Christmas Village, Litia - her busy self - placed orders of where things should go. Kalina - her helpful self - asked where I thought things should go. Fotu - his show up at the last minute, help a bit, and take credit for all the work self - did plug things in! Seneti - her delight in all things new self - said, "WOW!" for the first time ever! There is nothing like light as it penetrates the darkness. Especially when that light bursts out from miniature porcelain structures in a tiny town blanketed with snow. This year, Sione - his always make things better self - rearranged the furniture so that the Christmas Village could be shared at the front window. The mirrored effect there has brought a stunning depth to the village at night. All of us like to hang out where we can see the jolly twinkles as stories of what is happening there run around in our heads. Not to mention our joy at arriving home, to welcome twinkles peering out at us. Oh, the magic!

Christmas - the Winter Festival of Lights. The Light of the World. A guiding STAR! Babe, lying in a manger. The only begotten of the Father. Full of grace and TRUTH! Living! Savior! Redeemer! Lord! Thanks to thee for the atonement on our behalf so we can delight in life and living and become like thee someday!

Mom, I could not answer your question for the Relief Society party until now! What can I NOT live without . . . LIGHT!

Even everyday lights amaze me!

Sun - breathtaking displays burst amid clouds of darkness (Our creator the supreme artist!)

Sunrise - fresh beginning revived

Sunset - day bathed in splendor

Christmas Lights - twinkling magic

Chandelier - dancing prisms bursting smiles

Oven Light - warmth of happy family or service minded

Reading Lamp - illumination of the soul

Night Light - security (Oh, how one little light penetrates the darkness!)

Computer Desktop - keeping touch with loved ones

Headlights - Sing your way home

Piano Light - a twice brightener (light allows music to be made)

Flashlight - scouting lifeline

Luminaries - memories of Uncle Walt's Dixie Christmas (White sacks in white snow in Provo just don't have the same effect.)

Lanterns - nostalgia of historic living

Candlelight - Non-flickering Readers became the likes of Abe and Joseph

Oh, may our homes be filled with His Light this glorious holiday season!

Christmas - ALIVE and WELL

2008-12-05T23:10:00.000-08:00

This farm girl is filled with holiday nostalgia of yesteryear! Kalina's homework was to interview me about favorite Christmas memories. The interview lasted for hours. I would love to have tallied the number of questions asked by the kids and the quick responses to my brain that had not surfaced forever! These stories came alive last night - not a creature was stirring! Oh, the POWER of STORY! And there is nothing better than a TRUE one!

A cherished Christmas was the one before Robbie left on his mission. He received gift after gift of mission import. He had a stack bigger than any of the rest of us, but a drudge upon his face, a gludge exuding from body language, and Bah Humbug voiced about having to grow up. Predicted presents were a DRAG! How much more awful could the day be?

Robbie, the usual go-getter, was in NO HURRY to return to the farm after the holiday brunch at Grandma and Grandpa's. There was nothing to go home and DO! So, we didn't return to the farmhouse until mid afternoon. That was when the large bow was spied tucked inside the tree. Attached was a string of yarn and a note of invitation to follow the yarn whithersoever it trailed. The ensuing extravaganza of trying to keep up with Robbie while he went ditch dodging, fence flying, and pasture parting was more fun and holds more memory than the now forgotten toys we received that day!

The milkhouse became the spot marking X for an ONLY IN MY DREAMS 22! No sister was allowed to get close enough to the cherished gun to give any details about it, but I am a witness to the sheer humility of one older brother as he realized that Christmas was ALIVE and WELL!

Another Christmas memory happened in our dear Pioneer Home of Provo while Dad received his higher education. We had to have been POOR, but Mom and Dad didn't let on. Margaret (our Canadian Mary Poppins) and Albert (her Famous Canadian Hockey-star Husband) became our holiday angels! No detail of a wonderful holiday spirit or tradition was left unturned! We rode in their empty shell, carpeted interior van all the way to Temple Square to see the lights. These sweet Canadian Christians were attending BYU with Dad and had arrived in Provo because of "divine providence!" (Their exact words.) They wanted to witness the tradition of a Utah Christmas, and saw to it that we were allowed to come along for the ride. A perfect Christmas dinner at their small apartment along with a HUGE bag of Christmas surprises at our doorstep on Christmas Eve were portions of their good deeds. As a recipient of someone's love and care, I know that true Christianity packs a powerful impact. I will always love the Murray's! Christmas was ALIVE and WELL!

May I continue the tradition of a Christmas that is ALIVE and WELL!