Living in the Land of Zion

2011-01-04T18:36:00.000-07:00

Well after hours of trying to figure this out I think we finally have it. Amanda always comes up with projects for me. So I can show her how. After many tries and googles. I think we have it. I didnt think anyone was still looking at my blogg. I have been neglecting it.

2011-01-02T20:50:00.004-07:00

2011-01-02T19:27:00.007-07:00

2011-01-02T19:20:00.006-07:00

2011-01-02T19:14:00.005-07:00

2010-10-23T14:08:00.002-06:00

Hi to all,

Dads recovery continues as we discussed on Sunday. I met with two of his therapists on Tuesday and tried to understand the criteria they use to evaluate his progress for Medicare’s participation. Essentially it is totally based on his physical capabilities to perform ADL’s (Activities of Daily Living.) These include his ability to do things like dress himself, move about his environment, use the bathroom, eat, etc. There is no evaluation of his mental progress used in their decision. It is obvious that Medicare rules with an iron fist and that the therapists must be able to document significant progress on a weekly basis. The pressure seems to be directly proportional to the length of time that he has been in rehabilitative therapy. The expectation is that he will either progress to the point that he no longer needs therapy or plateau and consequently no longer qualify on a very rapid trajectory. As of Tuesday, they thought he would be at that plateau and need to be released about the end of next week. I asked them to work to practice with Dad the specific skills he needs to see if he can qualify for a little longer. Time will tell if that happens.
An assistant admissions person at the center gave me the information that I conveyed on Sunday about choices there, and it now appears that I need to talk to the lead person. There may be some latitude in what the fees will be and the opportunity to stay in the same room. I will update that in my next message.
The occupational therapist is going to meet with Seth, Dad and I (and any of you who want to be there) at the Provo house to make recommendations of modifications needed at Dad’s home to accommodate his needs.
Seth has agreed to be available most week afternoons to stay longer (between 4:00 and 5:00 pm.) He needs you to let him know what your desires are so he can let his wife know when he will be home. Please call him at 801-696-3652 to tell him what schedule you would like to have him plan on for most of the nights you will be there. If there needs to be a change in this ‘normal’ schedule, call him for a specific day to modify your needs. I let him know who will be with Dad each evening, so from you long term plan he will know in advance what to plan on.

2010-10-05T18:47:00.000-06:00

Hi Family,

The last three days have continued to be relatively good ones for Dad. He is still tired for extended periods of the day, but when he is awake he carries on good conversations. He doesn’t usually initiate new topics, but joins in the conversation. He obviously enjoys visits from the family and especially seems to respond to young ones. He doesn’t relish the walks to the dining room, but does fairly well. He remains quite weak.

Friday evening he was not willing to take his medicines again. Jason and the nurse tried several ways to convince him to take them to no avail. I suggested that he put Don’s CD on and let him relax for 10-15 minutes before he tried again, but as it turned out Mariasha and Quinton came to visit and Mariasha was able to convince him to take them.
On Friday night when I was with him for a while, he asked me to find his watch and ring. To the best of my knowledge that is the first time he has recognized that he doesn’t have them (as you know he was never without them other than when bathing or sleeping.) I explained that they were at my home waiting for him, and he didn’t ask again. Karlene told him that she would like to take him outside to look at the rose garden. Later when they were outside, he asked where the rose garden was without any promptings. He obviously has a very difficult time seeing anything most of the time. Even when he tries, he has difficulty recognizing things and even people. He has tried to see things occasionally when I have been there without promptings, and says something to the effect that he can’t get his eyes to work right.

He is not able to go for extended periods without oxygen, but is only on ½ unit of oxygen to bring his level up to 92-93. You will remember that we have an appointment with Dr. Watkins on Tuesday at 2:00 pm. None of you have indicated an intent to be there yet, but I would still welcome items that you would like to have discussed with the Doctor.

The schedule for the next couple of weeks as it stands now:
Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Karl
Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Tuesday evening – Sallie
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Marlene
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Randy
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open
10/9 - Saturday morning – Open
Saturday afternoon – Open
Saturday evening – Open
Sunday morning – Open
Sunday afternoon – Open
Sunday evening – Open
Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Open
Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Tuesday evening – Open
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Open
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Open
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open
10/16 - Saturday morning – Karlene
Saturday afternoon – Karlene
Saturday evening – Open
Sunday morning – Karlene
Sunday afternoon -- Karlene
Sunday evening – Open

Thanks for all you are doing to support Dad. I love you,
Martin

2010-09-30T10:52:00.000-06:00

Hello to all of you,
I do not have very much to report today, but will try to let you know what I do. Dad seems to be relatively unchanged for the last week. He was extremely tired most of the day today. He ate a good breakfast, but then ate nothing for lunch. Jamie said he ate most of his supper. He was deeply asleep for most of the morning and afternoon. I tried numerous times to get him to wake up enough to talk, unsuccessfully. I read portions of the Sunday newspaper to him, but he would be asleep almost as soon as I started reading. He said he was looking forward to Church, but when the time came, Brooke and the aide were unable to wake him sufficiently.
He woke up when Don & Linda, Keith and family and Kevin and family came to see him late this afternoon and had a fairly good visit with them. He was awake when I was there around 7:00 pm this evening and we had a fairly good conversation.
He did fairly well yesterday with two of his therapies, but was too sleepy for the third.
They have apparently decided that the residents, including Dad, are using too much bottled oxygen. They wanted to take his oxygen concentrator to the lunch room this morning for breakfast. I went along with it, but later decided that the walk there should be with oxygen from the bottle. The nurse said that he was authorized to have an oxygen bottle when he walks to the therapy rooms, but not otherwise. I told Brooke when she came in to insist on having the oxygen bottle on him when he walked to the lunch room at noon and evening. Both of those meals were delivered to his room, so it was not an issue. I don’t have any problem with them transporting the concentrator to the lunch room when he is eating, but believe we need to be insistent that he have oxygen when he walks. Seth, you will have to deal with this in the morning. If you have any problem, let me know and I will come to help you. I don’t think they will resist the oxygen as he walks if we don’t object to having the concentrator while he is there.
As I talked about in my last email, I decided that we needed to consult with a local neurologist who could examine Dad and review all of the CAT scans and history. To that end, I called the office of Joseph Watkins, a neurologist that Charlotte and I worked with once before (and liked.) His staff informed me that in order for Medicare to pay for it, he had to have a referral from another physician. I called Dr. Dahl’s office and requested such a referral from him on Thursday. Dr Dahl called me on Saturday and indicated that his staff had sent the referral on Friday. I will call tomorrow to set up an appointment as soon as possible. I think that could be 2 – 3 weeks based on my conversation with the staff of Dr. Watkins, but we will try to get it as soon as possible. If any of you would like to participate in that meeting you are welcome to come along. If you have questions you would like to have addressed, please get them to me (preferably in an email) and I will attempt to have them addressed.
I have talked to Karlene, Karl and Don regarding the fast we had as a family. I would love to hear from any of you that have additional insights that we should all understand.
Here is the schedule for the next two weeks. You will see that we don’t have many signed up (my fault because I haven’t sent this out earlier.) I would appreciate it if you can let me know soon about the early days, especially tomorrow night.
9/27 Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Open
Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Tuesday evening – Sallie
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Open
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Open
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open
10/2 - Saturday morning – Karlene
Saturday afternoon – Karlene
Saturday evening – Open
Sunday morning – Karlene
Sunday afternoon -- Karlene
Sunday evening – Open
Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Open
Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Tuesday evening – Open
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Open
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Open
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open
10/9 - Saturday morning – Open
Saturday afternoon – Open
Saturday evening – Open
Sunday morning – Open
Sunday afternoon -- Open
Sunday evening – Open
Thanks for all you are doing to help Dad. I continue to be impressed by your commitment to Dad.
I love you,
Martin

2010-09-21T11:12:00.000-06:00

Hi to all,

Dad had a fairly good day this morning and afternoon. Randy was with him evening and reports that he was in good spirits, but wanted to go to bed rather early. He ate about half of his dinner and then was insistent on going to bed. When the nurse brought in his medicine, Dad refused to take the medicine. Randy and the Nurse tried to convince him that it was important to take it, but he still refused. The nurse will try again in a little while. I am not aware of him not taking his medicine before. He has given us a bit of a hard time on occasion, but it think that we have always been able to get him to take it. Dad was significantly less sore from his injury today and was fairly alert during the morning therapies. Those of you who don’t know, Dad was extremely sore from the fall, to the point he couldn’t assist in his movement from bed to chair to auto, etc. I have not been able to get a report today from the therapists as to their feelings about his progress, but hope to do so tomorrow.
I spent about 40 minutes on the phone this evening with Matt Evans (Ken’s son) who you will remember is a neurologist back at the Cleveland Clinic. I received a fair amount of insight from talking with him that I will try to convey in this email. Matt tells me that the temporal lobe of the brain is the part responsible for receiving short term memories and converting them into long term memories. The temporal lobes on both sides of the brain are involved in this process, and in a young person one side can be sufficient to do the work fairly well. In an older person like Dad, when one temporal lobe is injured the other one has more difficulty taking up the entire job resulting in some of the memory challenges we are seeing in Dad. He further explained that when there was trauma elsewhere in the body (the TIA, the Congestive Heart Failure, the fall) that it further delays and slows down any recovery – especially in a 94 year-old. He said that it is impossible to know how long significant recovery can occur, but that he wouldn’t jump to the conclusion that Dad is near the end of his recovery. He said that the experience of being in another place in time could be a result of other problems in the body, such as infections. Obviously, Matt has not seen Dad and can only react to my verbal descriptions. All of this is handicapped by Dad’s age and decreased ability to recover from problems. We may want to take Dad to a neurologist here locally to get additional input into what we should expect. Do any of you have knowledge of one we should consider?
Charlotte suggested, and I agree that she and I have not involved Heavenly Father enough in our own considerations. We have determined that we are going to fast for Dad on Wednesday of this week and to ask for both insight and wisdom for us and for healing and recovery for Dad. We invite any of you who would like to to join us in this fast.

The schedule for the next few days follows:
Sunday morning – Karlene
Sunday afternoon -- Karlene
Sunday evening – Jamie
Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Randy
Tuesday morning – Marlene
Tuesday afternoon – Richard
Tuesday evening – Sallie
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Open
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Open
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open
9/25 - Saturday morning – Donna
Saturday afternoon – Donna
Saturday evening – Seth
Sunday morning – Open
Sunday afternoon -- Open
Sunday evening – Open
Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Open
Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Tuesday evening – Open
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Open
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Open
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open

You will note that we need a lot of help beginning on Wednesday. I would appreciate any help you can give. Thank you for your efforts in the past.

On another note, Karlene has offered to coordinate family use of the St George condo. Any time you want to use the condo, please contact Karlene to schedule it. Thank you Karlene for offering to handle this.

Love,
Martin

2010-09-18T19:25:00.000-06:00

Hi Family,
I think that most of you know that Dad had a relatively minor fall last Wednesday that has had a negative effect on his progress this week. Seth was with him and at noon, went to pick up his lunch. A nurse came in to check his vital signs and Dad was fine and sitting in his easy chair. A couple of minutes after she left someone saw Dad on the floor. No one knows what happened, but it appears that he either 1) leaned forward and lost his balance or 2) tried to stand up and fell. He seemed to be okay with only minor aches as a result of the fall, but overnight his muscles in his left hip/bottom became very stiff and sore. He felt significant pain whenever he tried to move much, especially trying to stand or to go into the bathroom. This has continued, but today it seems to be lessening. Karlene said that he was able to walk from the bathroom to his chair this morning without apparent significant pain after the aide suggested that he lean more heavily on the walker to take pressure off the hip.

Dad is not coughing much anymore, and his x-ray yesterday shows much less involvement in his lungs and chest. His health seems to be generally good.

I talked today to the head therapist about his progress. He said that Dad had been improving well prior to the fall, but has not done well since. I asked for a more complete report Monday after he talks individually with each of the one-on-one therapists.

I assume that you all remember that Don and Linda’s farewell for their mission is tomorrow at 9:00 am in their ward house. They are having an open house at their house after the meeting (10:30 or so) and it is my desire that we meet there sometime that doesn’t conflict with what Don and Linda are doing with as many of you as possible to discuss Dad’s situation and future plans. Let me know if you are not planning to be there so that we can talk prior to the meeting.

On another matter, Donna’s daughter Kim and Justin have previously been told by Dad that they could use the St George condo form 9/30 to 10/3 while they are there for the St George marathon. They would also like to stay there then nights of 10/9 and 10/16 if no one else is planning to use it. Are you aware of any conflicts with these dates? Would one of you be willing to act as the scheduling agent for the use of either of Dad’s condos to try to avoid duplicate expectations.

The schedule for the next couple of weeks follows. Please let me know when you can assist with any of the open dates. You will note that we need help on Tuesday during the day. Seth would like to have the day off to attend a funeral. I appreciate the way you volunteer without me having to call and ask.

9/18-Saturday morning – Karlene
Saturday afternoon – Tiffany
Saturday evening – Karlene
Sunday morning – Karlene
Sunday afternoon -- Karlene
Sunday evening – Jamie
Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Randy
Tuesday morning – Open
Tuesday afternoon – Open
Tuesday evening – Sallie
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Open
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Open
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open
9/25 - Saturday morning – Donna
Saturday afternoon – Donna
Saturday evening – Seth
Sunday morning – Open
Sunday afternoon -- Open
Sunday evening – Open
Monday morning and afternoon – Seth
Monday evening – Open
Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Tuesday evening – Open
Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth
Wednesday evening – Open
Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth
Thursday evening – Open
Friday morning and afternoon – Seth
Friday evening – Open
I love you all.
Martin

2010-09-13T15:34:00.000-06:00

Hi Family,

I was surprised to see that it has been a week since I sent out my last update. It seems like time goes really fast. Dad’s last week has been somewhat less eventful that most of the last five weeks. He seems to be making regular progress – although sometimes it is frustratingly slow. The doctor saw him Friday and determined there was still Pneumonia in his lungs. He ordered another round of the antibiotic Cipro and he is still on oxygen at the rate of 2 liters. He continues with an occasional deep cough, although it still seems to be declining. When Marlene got there this morning, she found him without the oxygen on and assumed that he had progressed to not need it. When I got there about 9:30 am he was still not on oxygen because Marlene didn’t recognize the need. I put him on the oxygen and talked to the nurse. She was surprised that he had been left off the oxygen at least from the time then got him up, and agreed to talk with those that care for him to emphasize that that should not happen. When you are there, please check to be sure he is on oxygen until I let you know it is not necessary. If there is any question, talk to the nurse and ask when he was removed from oxygen.

There are times when Dad seems really to be making good progress. Sometimes the same day, he will take several steps back (especially when he is tired) and not seem so good. He was in good spirit and awake when I was with him today. I arranged for him to talk with Rex, Florence and Fern on the room phone. I talked with each of them first and gave them the room phone number and asked them to call dad back. He had a good conversation with each of them. I invited them to call anytime 8:00 am to 8:00 pm and told them that one of us would answer the phone if we were there and give the phone to Dad. I told them that he may be out of the room for meals or therapy, or be asleep and unable to talk at some times. Rex is still quite incapacitated by his heart problems, but seemed happy and otherwise well. Florence is recovering from a very bad infection that has her in a rehabilitation center regaining strength for a week or so before she goes back to Jeans. Fern seems to be well and happy.

There have been times this week when Dad seems to be in another place and is not cooperative with what he needs to do. As I inferred above, this seems to be worse when he is tired. It takes patience to help him back to the current situation and to accomplish what is needed. If you ever feel that you are not able to reach him, give me a call. Most of the time I am not very far away and I can come help. To date, the only thing he does is not follow requests (i.e. to get ready for bed, to leave the bathroom, to eat, etc.) Overall he seems to be getting adequate nutrition although sometime he will eat little at certain meals.

The Rehab doctor saw Dad on Friday (seemingly only to address the pneumonia) but after some pressing for answers from Seth and Randy who were both there he decided to prescribe “Aricept” which is used to help Alzheimer’s patients with their clarity of mind. I haven’t been able to discern any effect from this medication yet, but am hopeful that it will help. I have talked with Dr Val King, a physiatrist (rehabilitative care) about accepting Dad as a patient and advising us as to his needs. He was going to call the care center to inquire as to his current status and then would call me back (which he has not yet.) I will let you know further about any progress. It is obviously troubling to feel that his progress is so often so slow.

I mentioned the possibility of hiring other family members to take shifts with Dad when we are unable to cover them all. Please answer back to me about your feelings about this and also if you have anyone in your family who might be interested in being hired. It is conceivable that Jason’s two older boys might be possible hires, although I have not talked to either yet. I really appreciate the love and care that Seth provides for Dad in his time with him.

If any of you have other information to share, please do so with everyone.

The schedule for helping Dad for the next two weeks is pretty bare, because I waited so long to send this. If any of you are available this Tuesday through Friday, please so indicate soon. We need to quickly provide someone to be with him. Here is the schedule:

9/11- Saturday morning – Karl

Saturday afternoon – Tiffany

Saturday evening – Don

Sunday morning and afternoon – Marlene, Jason and Martin

Sunday evening – Karl

Monday morning and afternoon – Seth

Monday evening – Randy

Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth

Tuesday evening – Open

Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth

Wednesday evening – Open

Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth

Thursday evening – Open

Friday morning and afternoon – Seth

Friday evening – Open

9/18-Saturday morning – Open

Saturday afternoon – open

Saturday evening – open

Sunday morning – Open

Sunday afternoon -- Open

Sunday evening – open

Monday morning and afternoon – Seth

Monday evening – Open

Tuesday morning and afternoon – Seth

Tuesday evening – Open

Wednesday morning and afternoon – Seth

Wednesday evening – Open

Thursday morning and afternoon – Seth

Thursday evening – Open

Friday morning and afternoon – Seth

Friday evening – Open

Thanks for all you are doing to help Dad. My appreciation for my family has been strengthened even more than it already was through this difficult experience. I love you all.

Martin

2010-08-26T19:22:00.001-06:00

Dad had a meaningful and coherent discussion with Karl this morning, with Don in the afternoon and Gary in the evening today regarding Mom’s passing. He had no memory of her stroke, death or funeral, and wanted to have a lot of information about especially the funeral. After talking extensively with Karl, Dad said he had a single memory of the Doctor telling him in the hospital that Mom would not make it. Don told him that we had a DVD of the funeral and pictures that Chris accumulated and he asked if he could view them. I took my copies of them to his room this evening but he was quite tired and said he wanted to see them tomorrow. He continues to show signs of better thought process and memory, but will then revert to less significant memories when he is tired.

I talked with Dr. Noble today about Dad’s eyes. We have an appointment on Friday morning (9:40 am) to have him evaluate Dad’s eyesight. Dr Noble cautioned me that he may or may not be able to get a definitive answer for us, depending on the ability Dad would have to assist in the exam. He was concerned that we keep Dad’s eyes moistened. He gave me the name of some gel to put in his eyes 3-4 times a day, and a different gel to put in his eyes at night as he went to bed. We need to follow through on this when we are with him.

Dad’s therapy schedule is expected to be: 9:00 am to 10:00 am for speech therapy; 11:00 am to 12:00 noon for occupational therapy; and 3:00 pm to 3:30 (or perhaps 4:00 pm ?) for physical therapy.

2010-08-20T19:53:00.002-06:00

Well Grandpa seems to be adjusting to his new surroundings. He was sleeping and we couldn't wake him to take his meds. He kept clinching his mouth shut. He did not want to take them. Martin took his lounge chair into his room and he was resting in it. He seems to remember things more every day.

2010-08-19T20:39:00.003-06:00

Today dad was moved to the Orem Rehab Center. The address is 575 East 1400 South, Orem,Room # 214. Phone # is 801-235-9303, it is just south of the University Mall one block. They do not have visiting hours. You can come anytime you want and leave when you want. He really enjoys seeing the younger kids. He perks right up and usually knows them by name.Thank you for your love and prayers.

2010-08-18T22:16:00.002-06:00

Just a quick note to let everyone know what is up. Grandpa seems to be getting better with some of the memory things. He is recognizing sometimes. He will be moving to the Rehab center in Orem tomorrow for more therapy. He will have open visiting hours so don't hesitate to come and see him.

2010-08-15T10:21:00.002-06:00

Just a quick update. Not much new to tell. Dad seems to have great improvements one hour and then the next time you see him within hours he is unresponsive. Everyone is giving it their all. All the hospital workers are very kind to him and everyone else. They have been good to work with us and keep us in on what is going on. They have been taping his eyes open during therapy and it seems to help him. He kept them open during dinner last night. ( just a slit) He would lift his head and try to see you. You have to be right in front of him for him to see you. He sometimes recognises voices. He loves to see and hear the little ones. He lights up every time one comes in.

2010-08-13T15:12:00.003-06:00

Well yesterday Dad recognized Rogers voice and said Hi Roger on his own. The night before Brooke was reading from the family history book and he would finish some of the stories for her. This is the first of him starting any conversation. He had his glasses on and was trying to open his eyes. We have Don and Randy going to Alaska on Sunday and we need someone to be able to help cover the shifts. If any of the grandchildren are available for a 5 hr shift or you can split it between a couple of you that would really help out. The hours are 9-12, 12-5, 5-9 we have a sign up sheet at the hospital if you can help that would be great. Thanks for all your love and prayers in Dad's behalf.

2010-08-11T10:53:00.001-06:00

Just to let everyone know, they removed the feeding tube yesterday. Dad is eating on his own. There have been no real improvements other than that. Thanks for your love and support.

2010-08-09T21:54:00.003-06:00

Just returned from the hospital. Dad ate his first meal. He has had a feeding tub, which he does not like, he keeps trying to take it out. He ate pasta, peaches, squash, cookies and ice cream. He is still having memory issues. He was very tired when we got there. You can tell he is trying to remember things but just cant. They have asked us to bring pictures and try to get him to talk as much as possible. It looks like a long road.

2010-08-08T20:34:00.002-06:00

As many of you know we are trying to keep everyone updated on Grandpa's progress. He has been moved to the Rehab Unit in the hospital. He is in room 2683, he seems to enjoy your visits. He sleeps a lot especially after his therapy. They work on him about 3 hours a day they take him for a walk and he comes back to his room and sleeps.Visiting hours are 6:00 pm Monday- Saturday and Sunday all day, we have a sign up sheet for people to be with him during the day and there is a nurse that stays with him during the night. Please check the schedule and see if there is a time you can stay with him. We appreciate all the prayers in his behalf. I am sure he feels your love for him.

Arvid's about the same

2010-08-05T13:25:00.001-06:00

S. Arvid Dodge updates

2010-08-04T16:32:00.006-06:00

HI-this is Karlene here, not Chris...:)
I decided with our rather LARGE family it would be a great idea to keep you posted on a blog. Chris will take over after I have to leave. For the sake of extended family that may not have heard any details, this is a sketchy version of what has transpired with dad so far.
On Sunday, Martin took Dad to ER because he was feeling poorly. His heart had liquid around it. It had been in a-fib for a while (the upper half) so they had turned that portion of the pace-maker off. They sent him home and Monday morning when Dad wasn't up and about, Martin found him still asleep. He woke him and in another short amount of time Martin went back in and found him half in and out of bed unable to do either, and pretty unresponsive. After taking him to ER where the liquid around his heart had increased severely, they admitted him.
He had a stroke in the lower R side in the back of the brain (occiptal) area. From the CAT scans, there were probably previous strokes there as well. He has lost the vision on his left side of both eyes. They indicate he will probably not recover from this. Besides his eyelids being very weak, he has no other indications of damage beside some Cognitive problems. I understand that being mixed up and not "all there" is usual for a brain injury. He is able to hear us and communicate a little bit. He is responsive to us and will talk and answer questions. He can squeeze your hand and adjust his body somewhat in bed himself.
Today (Wednesday Aug. 4) is the second day they have had him up and walking a bit with a walker. Today he took a pretty good hike half way around the block here on the 5th floor of UVRMC in Provo. He is currently in Rm 580.
Unfortunately, today he flunked his swallowing test and they are inserting a feeding tube right now. It's pretty miserable to listen to and watch. He coughed it up. They'll try again later.
I'll try to get this address into an email to everyone. Please forward that on to anyone you don't see on my list. I'm not sure of how many email addresses I have.
Love to all

2010-02-14T16:44:00.003-07:00

We went on a Cruise in Jan with Bryce, Amanda, Don, Linda, Martin & Charlotte. Randy, Bryce, Amanda, Don and I went diving. It was the coldest Cruise we have ever been on. It rained and was record cold. But we still had fun. It was raining in Roatan when we dove.

2010-02-07T15:26:00.002-07:00

We went to Dee's on Jan 27th to take Christmas to the kids. We had such a good time with them all. They are growing up so fast. Such a handful. Deanna is such a good mom . She is so good with her kids. They are good kids. Madison is so dependable and always there to help. Abby is so full of love for everyone and concerned. Gracie is so inquisitive . Rubie is so artistic. Zeke is full of life. Eli is running all over the place not wanting to be left out. When ever he is eating something he makes this funny mummm noise. He is way ahead of his time.
Abby made her first necklace and bracelet.
Kids opening their Christmas presents.

2010-02-07T11:36:00.008-07:00

Clara and Marlee's Christmas dresses.

Clara Jan 2010.

On Jan 1 2010 Brett and Haylee blessed Marlee Ann Dodge. What a angel.

2009-10-28T17:50:00.002-06:00

Well I am a real slacker. I can't believe I have not been keeping up with this. Oh well I'll try harder. Next Year. Just to let everyone know, Brett and Haylee had their little girl on Oct. 27 at 255am. She is 6#2oz and 19 in long. She and Momy are doing fine. She had to be in the incabator for the first 6 hrs but nothing serious. She looks just like Brett. Sorry Haylee. Sorry no pictures here with me. I left my camera with them so they could take more pictures. I got to hold her and then I had to go to Idaho to set up store. I am just glad I was there. I leave for Tucson on Friday and then its crazy till Jan. See ya all next year. Happy Howoleen, Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year! Love to all

Mothers Day

2009-05-15T09:05:00.005-06:00

It was so warm outside we soaked up some rays, after dinner.

Happy Mothers Day. We had a barbaque after church. Haylee's Mom and brothers came. Amanda's Mom & Dad and brothers came. Thanks guys for the great dinner. What a wonderful day.

Clara goes swimming.

2009-05-15T09:00:00.004-06:00

May 12th we opened the pool. Seth, Melinda, Clara, Haylee and I went swimming. Clara's first time. She loved it.

2009-05-03T16:54:00.001-06:00

April 27th, 2009 One of these days it is going to stop snowing. I just need to learn patience. It will probably just go right into summer. I hope.

2009-05-03T16:32:00.002-06:00

Clara is starting to smile. She is such a happy little girl. She is already 14 lbs at 2 months. What fun it is to have a grandchild near us once again. How I miss all those sweet little ones. ( and not so little.)

2009-05-03T16:25:00.002-06:00

We went to dinner with Mom & Dad on April 25th. We went to PF Changs. It was a wonderful dinner and company.

2009-05-03T16:17:00.006-06:00

April 24th.We all met at Mi Ranchitos for dinner for Randy's Birthday. His birthday is tomorrow but because of work schedules and all we celebrated today. Wow 55 and holding. It was a fun day. Cold but fun.

2009-04-26T15:56:00.007-06:00

We went to Delta for the weekend on our four wheelers. We took the 5th Wheeler out there. Bryce and Amanda brought there friends. Kayden, Scott, and Lenord were there. Then Bruce, Brody and Kylynn surprised us for the day. They chased rabbits and took long rides.

2009-04-26T15:51:00.004-06:00

Juston and Brett goofing off.

Juston came from California to spend the weekend with his kids. We colored Easter eggs, made rice crispy eggs and dipped in chocolate. Just like Martha Stewart.

This years Easter Basket was full of surprises. Clara's first Easter. She wore the bunny ears her Mama wore when she was little. She was so cute. She even had a little tail.

2009-04-26T15:44:00.005-06:00

And the proud Mama of these two beautiful kids Allie.

We were so lucky to go to Texas and visit with Allie, Tom, Alexis, David, and we even got to see Chelsea & Cody.
We went to the park and played ball with Alexis and David.
We also fed the ducks.

2009-04-26T15:34:00.007-06:00

Deanna and baby Eli. The worker of all these beautiful children.
Madison may look old enough to
date, but she is not. Soon to be a teenager. Whoopie..

Abi is always helping. She loves to take pictures.

Gracie is getting so grown up. She is always happy.

Rubi, what a sweet smile.

Here is Trouble with a capital T. Zeek

2009-04-26T15:28:00.005-06:00

We went to church in Cozumel we couldn't understand what they were saying, but it was fun. It's not good that they have to put up gates, and bars.

Dad and I left for Mexico on March 8, 2009 for 3 weeks. This is the resort we stay in.

2009-04-26T15:20:00.004-06:00

Seth, Melinda, Clara, Bryce, Amanda, Dad & I all met there.
We met in Salt Lake at a restaurant for Brett's birthday. It was a Italian Restaurant ,It was good food. Good Change. 22 and holding. Where has the time gone.

2009-04-23T21:55:00.004-06:00

We went to Cabela's for the day. The kids shot guns and seen all the stuffed animals, and fish. Then we went to Chuck e Cheese.

his is Zeek. He is such a cowboy. He is showing me his muscles. What a hulk. It's a good thing he is so cute.

2009-04-23T21:52:00.001-06:00

Couldn't help putting this one up. Elijah's little feet in Deanna's hands. So small and precious. I know I am behind. Just a few months.

Elijah Blessed

2009-04-23T21:24:00.006-06:00

Family and friends gather around to see the little one blessed.

Elijah Henry Gordon was blessed by his daddy, Wes on March 30, 2009. What a bundle of joy. They were going to bless him on Sunday but there was a ice storm and our flight got canceled. We were so grateful that they waited for us. Deanna & Wes had some members over. Wes's parents were there. They blessed him for family home evening. Deanna's friend Sasha made homemade donuts.
We arrived at about 4:30 and the blessing was at 7:00, shortly after we arrived we noticed the toilet would not flush. Zeek had put several things down it. Wes could not get it unplugged , after taking out a toothbrush, doll shoe, so he brought the one from upstairs to replace it. ( The next day a tube of tooth paste came out .) Only to find Zeek had put tile spacers down the upstairs on. While we were all busy trying to get ready, Zeek went upstairs and took his diaper off and pooped on the dresser and used it for art. Someday this will be a funny story, But it wasn't so funny then. All in all it was a wonderful day.See what little boys are made of.

Clara Dee is blessed

2009-03-08T20:55:00.014-06:00

On March 1st 2009, Clara Dee Dodge was blessed. Her daddy Seth Brandon blessed her. It was a beautiful blessing and a wonderful day.

I am named after my Great Grandmother Clara Dodge.

There is a picture of 4 generations on both sides.

This is me in my blessing dress.

2009-03-01T21:34:00.006-07:00

We had to take Elijah to Walmart to weigh him. He is such a beautiful baby. He had some colic and cried a lot at first. He has a strong neck and would hold up his head. What a joy he is. Zeek loves being a big brother. Everyone fights over who gets to hold him next or change his diaper ( that I am sure will wear off) He will not lack attention.

Elijah

2009-02-26T10:03:00.003-07:00

He is finally hear. Elijah came into our world at 230 am. on Feb. 26th . He is 21 in. long and about 9 lbs. we have to go get him weighted at the hard ware store or Walmart. Baby and Mommy are good and healthy. Welcome Elijah.

2009-02-18T13:47:00.005-07:00

Little Clara came home on Feb. 17th. She is such a good baby. She looks around a lot and sleeps well. I got to be with them when they came home. Melinda's mom had to work. Lucky me.. We had a good day. What a bundle of joy.

2009-02-15T10:29:00.007-07:00

Clara Dee Dodge was born on Saturday February 14 at 10:07 am. She weights 10lb.3oz and is 21 in. long. She is very alert and awake. She is too big for the nursery tee shirts. What a joy for Seth and Melinda.

Winter is upon us

2008-10-05T21:03:00.005-06:00

Well my last day off until Jan. So we went to the cabin to winterize it. We enjoyed Conference while we were there. There was about 1in on the ground and it snowed while we were there. It is so pretty with all the different colors. I just wish it wasn't cold.

Clara Dee Dodge

2008-10-01T16:57:00.003-06:00

We were privileged to go with Seth and Melinda to the Sonogram. It's a girl. They are going to call her Clara Dee Dodge. They were so excited to see it. We are so happy for them. The first one is her foot.Next she is upside down, with hand in front of face.

Next stop Mexico One last fling

2008-09-21T20:25:00.011-06:00

These are the turtles out of two nest. And they were still coming.It was fascinating. They were really strong. They let them out at night into the ocean, so the birds don't eat them.

Dad and I were lucky to go to Cancun, the weather was great, lots of sun and water. One of the days we went on a catamaran and went snorkeling. We saw a barracuda, stingray and lots of little fish.

We took the fairy to Cozumel for the day. We rented mopeds and road around the island. We were lucky to see the turtles being dug up after they had hatched. They were so cute I wanted to bring one home.

Now it is back to work for the winter.

Lake Powell

2008-09-21T17:53:00.019-06:00

The great canyons, blue sky's and lots of water.

Wow it never seems to stop amazing me at the wonder of this place. We had family and friends with us as we explored the great adventures of Lake Powell. Grandpa & Grandma Dodge, Seth, Melinda, Bryce, Amanda, Brett, Haylee, Marcus, Janeen, Preston, Tiffany, and baby Hanna. We even got grandma & grandpa to swim. The highlights are always the air chair, to see how long they can stay up.

Seth wanted goggles. So I got him some. NICE

20 Lb Catch

2008-09-01T21:53:00.002-06:00

Dad went fishing this last week. Providing for the family and all. He was so excited, he caught a 20 lb Salmon. The biggest of the year for Doc. Warners camp. He was awarded a 20 lb pin. He brought home about 150 lbs of fish, Salmon & Halibut. He had a lot of fun with Don and Bruce. He is already signed up for next year.

RZR

2008-09-01T21:48:00.003-06:00

Well here it is, my new car? It really is a four wheeler. Looks and drives like a dune buggy. I was having a hard time with my thumbs holding the gas, but this has gas peddle, steering wheel, and foot brake. I love it. Can't wait to go four wheeling now.

Widow Week

2008-08-30T18:59:00.004-06:00

Well it is Widow Week for me. Dad is in Alaska fishing with Bruce. So Polly and I decided to go to Las Vegas and see a show. We wanted to see Mama Mia. It was good but Vegas style. A little more physical than I wanted. We stayed at the The Trump, it was suppose to be condos but didn't sell. So they rent them out as a Hotel. It was flashy but not to my taste, very contemporary. Cold in my opinion.

Happy Birthday Tom

2008-08-26T22:51:00.003-06:00

Aug 20th

Happy Birthday to Tom, We are proud of all you have done for our country and our daughter. You are a good man. We wish you all the best. We love you all.

Where did the time go?

2008-08-26T22:40:00.002-06:00

I can't believe Aug. is almost over. Where did the month go. It seems I'm more sensitive to time now that it is almost time to go back to work. We were excited to have Lia and Mark and there family come down on Aug 16th and spend the day with us. We swam and had a barbecue. It was so fun to see the kids. You have a great family and we love ya.

Happy Birthday Dee

2008-08-09T16:53:00.003-06:00

On Aug. 6th Deanna turned one year older. I'll be nice and not tell how young you are. We were not there for the acutual day, so we celebrated before. She was having such a hard time with her computer, I got her a external hard drive and set it up for her. Hope it helps. Zeek thought it was for him. We love you and hope you had a great day.

Cabin

2008-08-09T09:33:00.006-06:00

We took Melinda,Seth,Grandma & Grandpa Dodge to the cabin this week. We left on Wed and came home Thurs. it is always such a treat to be in the mountains with fresh air and no noise. It was a milestone for me. I walked up to the spring for the first time. That was a hike and I made it. There was a storm that came in and it hailed, and rained. We woke to fog and lighting. We played games and had a great time. It is so fun to have Grandma & Grandpa there. They are amazing at 92 and still going strong. The air was a little thin for Grandpa. Next time we will have to take some oxygen.

Nauvoo

2008-08-01T08:25:00.012-06:00

Then it was off to Nauvoo. Madison turned 12 this July and wanted to do baptisms for the dead for her birthday. So we went Tuesday night. Deanna, Wes, and I also got to be baptized. They were very friendly at the temple and told us all kinds of stories. They invited us to go see the sword of Joseph Smiths from the battalion. Then we went to the Pageant. The kids really enjoyed all the activities that they had before the pageant. They could do all the pioneer things. Then Wednesday we visited the home of Joseph and Emma, the visitors center ( where there were lots of statues done by Dennis Smith. Alan Smiths brother.)Then we went to the Cartridge Jail. It was very spiritual there and I am so glad that we were able to go. What a spiritual week we had.

Our Pioneer children.

Zeek riding the sheep. Mutton riding. Getting him ready for the rodeo.

All tired out!
We went to some of the plays that they put on during the day.

Nauvoo Temple

Gracie turns 8

2008-08-01T08:15:00.004-06:00

On July 28th Gracie turned 8 and was baptised a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It was a wonderful day. We went to the park before and took pictures. She is such a pretty girl. She loved her new dress. She likes frills. We then went to the church for the baptism. After we got pizza, ice cream cake and cupcakes. Then we went to her house to eat it. She received her very own scriptures and many other wonderful things.It was fun to be with all the grand kids. What beautiful kids.They all have there own talents and personality's.

Seth turns 25

2008-08-01T08:05:00.002-06:00

Seth turned 25 today July 26th 2008. He is a quarter of a century old. Wow. We went out to dinner Friday night at Tacanos Brazilian Grill there was lots to eat all different kinds of meats were brought to our table to try. Then on his birthday the Pierce's came over for a barbecue and we had cake and ice cream.

Eat dirt

2008-08-01T08:01:00.003-06:00

We laughed when we got home and saw how dirty we were. It was really dusty.

Down in the valley

2008-08-01T07:57:00.003-06:00

Even the deer liked the view.

Dad and I took a ride up to Tower Mountain. It was a beautiful view. The sunset was great. We saw deer. We took Billing's new four wheeler. It was really fun.

Off to Missouri

2008-08-01T07:51:00.004-06:00

Deanna and I left Dallas and drove to her house in Missouri with David and Alexis. The next day we took the car back to Kansas and went shopping. The next day we started painting. The kids were all so helpful. Even Zeek gave us a hand. She has a beautiful house and I can't wait to see it done.

Six Flags Over Texas

2008-08-01T07:26:00.005-06:00

It was so hot we looked forward to the rides with water. We all came out soaking wet and didn't even mind. It didn't take long to dry off.

Seth looked out for the little ones. Made sure they were having fun.

Our Family went to Alethia's in Texas to help her. We took the kids to Six Flags in Dallas. It was so humid we drank about 5 gals of Gatorade. They all had a fun time.

Women in the Wild

2008-08-01T07:19:00.005-06:00

We did our yearly scrap booking marathon this year. There were 6 of us. Melinda came for the first time. From right to left. Britt Lunt, Jess Marvell, Melinda Dodge, Chris Dodge, Polly Billings missing from picture was Claudine she had to leave early. We had a wonderful time and did a lot of our genealogy. We decided that scrap booking should be a sport.

July 4th 2008

2008-07-06T21:17:00.002-06:00

After swimming Seth, Melinda, Randy and I left for the cabin. We had hot dogs cooked on the fire. It was a beautiful night. The final patch of snow in front of our cabin melted today. Wow July 4th and there is still snow. That is a record.

We got up the next day and played games then went home and had a barbecue with Melinda's family and Mark & Tara. What a fun day. There was so much moisture that there are lots of flowers. These are right in front of the cabin. Lots of different kids. Will see how long they last. It is getting hotter by the day.

4th Of July

2008-07-06T20:59:00.002-06:00

Today we celebrate the birth of our Country. We are so blessed to have the freedoms that we have. I am so grateful for those who gave there lives so we could be free. To all the men and women who have served. Thank you. We started the day with a Barbecue at Billings. Then we played some cards. Hand & Foot. Then we ventured off to the swimming pool. We couldn't keep the kids back any longer, it was like Christmas.When can we go?

We got the whole Billings family this year. That is a first.

Zack got to fly like a bird and land in the water. He thought it was the best.

2008-07-04T08:35:00.000-06:00

Randy and I went to the cabin on the 27th of June. We spent the night. It was so relaxing up there. Charlie & Jake got to come with us. They love it up there, they chase squirrels all day. It is so green. There was still a patch of snow. We did some general cleaning and just chilled.

2008-07-04T08:25:00.000-06:00

Britt and Jess came over. Jess brought pizza and we hung out for a while. Then Britt and the girls went swimming. Carson had to go to the doc, to get his hearing aid. We are so excited to see the improvement.

Alyssa and Kate love to be in the water. Alyssa has a cast but it doesn't slow her down. It was fun to watch them play in the water, jump off the side. Thanks for sharing your day with me.

2008-07-04T08:19:00.000-06:00

What cute kids. I got to play grandma part of the time. Juston, Brighton, Jacob and Hanna. Juston is such a good dad. He was so patient, and took good care of the kids.

Haylee, Riley and Tracy.

Riley and Haylee.

Diving

2008-07-04T08:12:00.000-06:00

Cliff jumping and jumping off the house boat is always a highlight. Bryce still holds the record. He is crazy.

The kids decided to put the tube under the slide and see who could stand up. Riley was one of the few who could. It is a hoot to watch them.

2008-07-04T08:06:00.000-06:00

Brett on air chair. He is so serious.

Wild rides on the tubes.

The kids would play cards for hours. They had so much fun.

Brett , Haylee, and Riley fun times.

Fun & Sun

2008-07-04T07:28:00.000-06:00

June 15 Happy Fathers Day .

It is time for our semi annual Lake Powell trip. There were 19 of us. We all took turns preparing food. It was a very relaxing trip. We missed the rest of our kids and grand kids. Maybe next time.

So dang cute. This is Hanna and she is 3 She has the biggest smile.
The highlight of the trip is still the air chair. The kids are really getting good. Haylee is like a ballerina on water.

And if you are brave you will take a banana boat ride. You are putting you own life in someone else hands. So hold on for dear life.

We even got grandma on the tube. It was a short but fun ride.

Pictures

2008-07-03T22:21:00.001-06:00

Rubi, Gracie, Abi, Zeek and Madi.
We spent all day Saturday cleaning so Mom could come home to a nice clean house. She was so surprised. It was really a great time and I love going and helping out. I needed a vacation when I got home to rest. It is so much work. I don't know how Dee keeps up with it all. Cooking from scratch, no sugar. Farm animals. Building a new house. Home Schooling. Her plate it really full. She does such a good job.

Gracie takes a dive.

2008-07-03T22:19:00.000-06:00

Gracie on the low dive. But she was so brave to go off the high dive.

Swimming day

2008-07-03T22:12:00.000-06:00

Then Friday was picture day and then off to the swimming pool. Abi and Gracie jumped off the high dive. Gracie woulnt do it
again so I could take the picture.
But she did go off the low dive.
It was still pretty cold. To cold
for me to go in. Zeek wasn't to
excited to get in eather.
The girls lasted a couple of hours
but then got really cold, so we
left for pizza.

2008-07-03T22:04:00.000-06:00

Then it was off to the Children's Museum. The kids love this place. It is a old mall and they took a section of it and put this together. They have a grocery store with food and baskets and a checkout.
They have a hospital, a stage, face painting, fire station and so much more. I can't remember it all. The kids had so much fun. They really like this place. We were playing and Dee called us and said there was a tornado warning and I should make sure the roads were open to go home. We left it was fine. But that night it was really bad. I moved the kids downstairs and tried to listen to the radio to hear if it was going to touch down there. It was a little harry but it passed about 1:00am. We survived.

At the Zoo

2008-07-03T14:01:00.000-06:00

Zeek holds the bird. They even had a camel to ride. What an experience. The man was really nice and let them pet it after there ride. I have never ridden a camel. They were so excited and we had so much fun.

June

2008-07-03T13:53:00.001-06:00

On June 1st I flew to Kansas and then drove to Deanna's house in Far West to stay with Dee's kids while she went to girls camp. Zeek liked his spaghetti. Looks good in it.

Madison got to go to camp so Deanna left on Monday and Madi left on Tue. So the rest of us played. We went to the Kansas City Zoo. They had a place where you could feed the birds. They would come to you and eat out of a cup. Even Zeek liked them. It was humid but we managed.

Haylee Graduation

2008-07-03T13:47:00.000-06:00

May was a cold and rainy month. Haylee and I went to the park and took pictures for her graduation. She is photogenic. It was a lot of fun.
Then came graduation. We are so proud of you and your accomplishments Haylee. Keep it up. You are a bright and loving young woman and we are honored to know you, and be a part of your life.

Goblin Valley

2008-07-03T13:32:00.000-06:00

Brett and Charlie riding Alyssa's four wheeler. Haylee and Brett getting ready for the "RIDE"

The group of us at the Goblin Valley Jess found her rock.

We were suppose to go to Strawberry for our spring camping trip. We had the boat up there to save our spot. We got 5 in of snow the day before we were suppose to go. I already had the trailer stocked, so I asked if we wanted to go to Goblin Valley. I had never been, but Deanna & Wes always talked about how fun it was. So we ventured off. It was a great place to go. There were trails everywhere. Even weaklings like me could go out and ride. It was not really hot yet, so we were glad for that.

Alyssa fell on her four wheeler and broke her arm. Britt had to go home to take her to the doc. We were all sad to hear it was broken, and they had to leave. Next year. We always look forward to doing things with the Billing's. We are so blessed to have them live next door to us. They are like family to us. Thanks for taking us with you.

April 19th 2008

2008-07-03T09:55:00.001-06:00

On April 19th I was privileged to go to Hawaii with Kathy, Mechell, Brandy, Shauna, and Kenny. Kathy turned 50 this year and so we went to celebrate. I was honored that they would include me. We had a wonderful time. Special thanks to Mechell for all the extra work she had to do to get things scheduled. Thanks to Kenny for all he did for everyone, he is very generous and kind. Mechelle you have a keeper.

April 10th 2008

2008-07-03T09:46:00.000-06:00

Randy on four wheeler.
Mean MaMa. Look out I know how to use this. Dead eye.
The Rabit bergade. Bryce Amada, Kylee, and Kayden.
Amanda and Kylee. Jon & Kaia.

For spring break we headed out to Delta. It is the worst place to camp, but the only place you can ride your four wheeler and shot at rabbits. They all had a fun time. It was cold so Soyna and I just stayed inside and played cards. Amanda taught us a new game called hand & foot and we played for hours.

April showers bring May flowers

2008-07-03T09:37:00.000-06:00

April 2nd I went to Texas. I stayed for a week with the kids while Allie went to Tom's retirement party in Maryland. After 20 years of service for our country. I know that it has been a long journey. You have both sacrificed allot and we appreciate it. Tom and Allie then drove a big truck with all of Tom's belongings home. Meanwhile I took the kids to Sea World. We got to feed the dolphins. It was so fun to be with them and see how grown up they have become. Alexis is 14 and David is 10. My how time flies. It is always such a joy to be around my grand kids. I love them all so much and miss them. They all live so far away.

March 7th 2008 Cancun Mex.

2008-07-03T09:29:00.000-06:00

Randy and I went to Cancun in Feb. We spent 2 weeks and bought a time share, we liked it so much. We went to Tulum and saw the ruins. He got pulled over 3 times and the 3rd time we had to give the bad cop $40.00 cash to leave. We learned allot. It was beautiful sunsets and we walked right out to the beach.

March 6th 2008

2008-07-03T09:23:00.000-06:00

Brett turned 21 today. What a milestone in his life. We are so proud of the changes he has made in his life. We hope and pray that he continues in the right direction. One step at a time. We went to dinner and then came home for cake and ice cream.

Feb 22nd 2008

2008-07-03T09:16:00.000-06:00

Then Brody and Kaylyn were married in the Manti temple. There was a lot of snow and it started snowing while they took
pictures. Thank you letting us
be a part of your day.

Jan

2008-07-03T09:05:00.000-06:00

You know me I can't just start in the middle of the year so bear with me while we take a stroll down memory lane.

Feb. 16 Th Seth and Melinda were married. What a joyful day that was. They were so happy and we are thrilled to have Melinda as part of our family. She brings out the best in Seth. We love you both and wish you the best.

Thanks

2008-07-03T09:04:00.001-06:00

OK I think I am ready to start again. Special thanks to Britt & Jess for all your help and inspiration. You are the best.

2008-07-02T21:51:00.000-06:00

When I was with the kids we went to the zoo. Zeek ran over and sat down and started doing the naner naner.

We took pictures at the house and the kids wanted to do a funny one.

2008-07-02T21:41:00.000-06:00

This is Gracie jumping off the high dive. She is so brave.