WINDOW PEEKING

Ouch!

2011-03-15T13:19:00.000-06:00

Following is the beginning to a fabulous blog that is more than worth reading....

I was up until nearly 1:30am today watching the tsunami in Japan live online. Terrible for the psyche and hard on the heart, I simply couldn’t stop watching it unfold. It’s utterly terrifying to imagine the devastation and separation that catastrophic events like this cause for people. In the face of this terrible news, there is much we can do as parents. In addition to donating to relief organizations, we can prepare our families. We have incredible strength and insight as the proud providers and nurturers of our children. Now, today, is the time to utilize this reminder for good and harness your concerns into preparedness.
On the news last night, reporters kept repeating that every home in Japan had an emergency kit ... that every family had a plan for an earthquake. They detailed how children knew at a very young age what to do when an earthquake began and families had communication plans to re-unite. (follow the link)

...............
http://www.blogher.com/lessons-japans-earthquake-and-tsunami-get-emergencyprepared?from=nethed

Toddlers and Tiaras with Tom Hanks

2011-02-28T00:25:00.000-07:00

Hidden picture, can you find spring???

2010-03-28T21:18:00.001-06:00

Spring seems to be hiding this year. I hope you have found spring! In March, when all the hoopla starts and everyone starts filling in the brackets and getting all worked up over predicting the outcome of college basketball tournaments, it always reminds me of when Mike was at the MTC. I remember sending him updates basketball March Madness, thinking he would really care. He was really too busy learning french but, the Mom in me thought he needed a diversion. Another article I sent him was about vendors selling yummy roasted bats on a stick in Abidjan, kind of like corn dogs at the fair! I was just trying to prepare him for the culture shock. That was a long time ago. In June of 2005, we helped Mike and Melissa move out to Chicago where he began Medical school. Since then, they have had two more children and we have missed them terribly. When he started school out there we knew that in March of 2009, would be Match day and with some variables that would depend on him and chance, we would know where they would go from there. The days in March went so slow....we were so anxious. He had worked so hard and done really well and had interviewing to specialize in Radiology which is quite competitive. I was nervous. Each day seemed like four. Following is a link to their blog to find out more about Match day. Needless to say, for me, it was an emotional day. He and Melissa were delighted with the news of getting exactly what they wanted. They will move to Spokane for one year and then move to Phoenix for four and he will indeed specialize in Radiology. With age I've become a bit soft and didn't only shed a few tears of joy and relief but I actually heard myself sob which....did worry me a bit.....I sounded like an emotionally distrait whanny! But when I pulled myself together to identify my emotions.....yes, to own them......., (no need to pay John) I felt gratitude for his protection, and humility for the obvious little role we play in our childrens lives. Four out of our five children have thrived and become wonderful independent adults. Only Tyra needs her mommy and she is just about 12. Phew! http://mnmpetersonfamily.blogspot.com/

Play keeps us vital and alive

2010-02-27T12:27:00.004-07:00

Is this the puzzle piece I am missing in my life? Maybe, although, I'm not sure I know how to let lose and reclaim it. I found this illustration on a blog one day and haven't been able to shake it. The quote that was with it was:
Play keeps us vital and alive.
It gives us an enthusiasm for life that is irreplaceable. Without it, life just doesn't taste good.
~ Lucia Capocchione

Everyone has to find their own way to play.........
Winter is tough.....last week was extra tough....

Linda, Gayla and Dianne and their husbands were in Mexico without us. We couldn't go. I thought if I ate at Taco bell, and tanned a little in the tanning bed, it would be okay. But even when my taste buds were lighting up like usual, as I ate my cafe Rio salad, I was still thinking of them, waltzing down the beach with sandals on. The week had come and gone and I had almost forgot. Last night, Hal was off on a scout camp out.
I sat down to check on the world and I found this picture of
my three cute sisters on the beach, in Mexico without me!

And just like that....it hit me....it's perfect....

I know how to play :)

Just look what I did.....it was really fun!....just me

photo shop and my jimmy john sandwich.....
Sometimes we have to find creative ways to play!

New Years and Cookie Crumbs....

2010-01-12T10:04:00.008-07:00

If you are reading this, you probably know me well enough to know that if I could eat anything I wanted to, and nothing else, it would just be cookies and chocolate-that's all and sometimes I do! That's why I go to the gym every morning. I even have a t-shirt that says
"I run so I can eat cake"
You might like my cookie story,
it's been a week and I'm still laughing.
Every night before bed, I have this ritual; I fill up my water bottle with ice water, I get my gym clothes ready, my coat out, I get out my gym bag....I everything ready to go to the gym the next morning. I can't give myself any excuses not to go. So....last week,
my black gym bag is on the bar stool, all ready to go and next to it, on the bar,
is this pkg of those hard yukky yellow vanilla filled sandwich cookies.
They are the, "only good in the middle of the night", kind of cookies. Anyway, before and on the way out of the door to the gym, I was eating some of those yukky cookies. Now-keep in mind that it is 4:30 a.m. and it is dark in our house, and on the way out the door....really dark.
I was on auto pilot as I entered the gym, sat down on the bench, took off my
slippers and ripped open the zipper of my black duffel bag to change into my running shoes.
Just as I ripped open that zipper, vanilla cookie chunks and crumbs flew off the top of my bag and all over the gym! They almost hit the people on the stationary bikes in front of the bench! There were other people on the bench with me. They turned their heads and tried not to notice, probably thinking I'd be embarrassed. I started giggled and laughed the entire time I was on the treadmill, in fact every time I think of the look on the peoples faces, it makes me want to do it again on purpose! Wow, I need to get out more!

December Fun

2009-12-28T15:17:00.009-07:00

The Fun and Parties started early at our house. Mike and Melissa came the first weekend in December and Jessica came the 18th because the spa she works at was closed for remodeling. It would have been a sad Christmas without her to pull my act together for me. Sometimes, mothers take care of daughters, this time, daughter took care of mother. I'm grateful that my children are all happily independent and I'm not a meddling mom but.....it would sure be fun if they live closer! I'm grateful that Melissa loves her family and really wants to move back her and not to ARIZONA!!! ( She may read this)

We had fun making gingerbread houses, going to Drake's Birthday Party, going to the Ward Christmas Party, Taking Drake and Madelyn to see the lights and taking everyone down to see Mom and Dad after Christmas. Dad looks like a natural with those Cache and Annie!

Christmas all kinds of fun 2009

2009-12-26T21:22:00.001-07:00

Christmas all kinds of happiness 2009

2009-12-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving at our house the very 1st time!

2009-12-01T11:55:00.003-07:00

Because we are both lucky enough to have family that has hosted Thanksgiving all these years, we haven't ever experienced the whole shebang ourselves. Tyra, Hal, Scott, Jorine, Mindy, John and Johnny started the day by running in the "feed the hungry"run. I hope that will be a standing tradition at our house and maybe next year I can do it too. I am old and have never really cooked a turkey that mattered. That seemed like too much pressure! Scott volunteered to cook the turkey for us and did a fabulous job. He soaked it in some concoction in a 5 gallon container and honestly...it was the best ever.

The kids and I made turkeys with our little pumpkins for the tables. The rest of the dinner was an accidental success. The men and kids were funny. They usually have a turkey shoot using real guns out in the fields. They improvised with BB guns in the back yard.

Halloween and Annie's Blessing

2009-11-03T00:25:00.005-07:00

I got a little crafty and made these funny cupcakes. I knew if I didn't document the...I'd forget. We went to Mindy's for Halloween because it was on Saturday and Annie's baby blessing was on Sunday. It was fun to spend Halloween with the kids and Tyra is getting kind of old for trick or treating and so.....we had to soak it for all it was worth! They have a great neighborhood to trick or treat in!

After the kids came back from trick or treating, they did the funniest thing! They dumped out their candy and put it into categories depending upon value....based on how much they liked it. Then....they bartered with each other until they got what they wanted or wore each other out. We had to watch over Josie's loot a bit but, it was the funniest thing ever! Our kids used to come home and sort it all out but barter???? That is a Livingstone trait! It was fabulous! Annie's baby Blessing was the next morning. I'm grateful they live close enough that we can spend time with them on special occasions and come and bother them when it's not a special occasion!

(I don't know why that txt is underlined-it's not worth fixing)

Love the Babies!!!

2009-10-21T13:29:00.007-06:00

This is the New Baby, Cache Michael. Isn't he a cute little thing!!
We can't wait to have them all come home in December!

Annie has changed so much in 5 weeks!
She is such a dainty little thing and smells so good.

I'm alright with fifty.......

2009-10-09T13:49:00.002-06:00

Fifty came and went. I had a birthday cake that my Son in Law made sure said, "Happy 39th Birthday" on it. There were some great gifts. There were all kinds of funny ones from my fun friends and family. There were black flowers, calgon bath salts, a giant remote control, a fireman calendar to hang in my office (really), a vitamins, and etc. And there were all kinds of really nice gifts too. Our first stop that weekend was at Mindy's. We took Maggie with us to St. George. It was fun to spend some time with Jessica and Jordan. They live too far away. I've looked forward to the Marathon all year. It is an inspiration! It was a thrill to see
Barry cross the finish line. We even saw Amy cross and my friend Kari. Our neighbors husbands all ran in it too. It still shocks me every morning when I have to put my age in as 50 on the treadmill at the gym.....but....it's okay, on my 49th birthday I ran 8 miles and I couldn't have ran 1 on my 19th, 29th or 39th....so, it's okay! I've had a couple set backs but....it's okay.....
I'm alright with fifty!

Welcome Annie Jeanne....such a sweet thing!!!

2009-09-22T15:51:00.003-06:00

Tyra and I got to spend Saturday and Sunday at Mindy and John's. What a sweet baby! The kids love holding her. She just layed in their arms like a doll until I changed her.
That's when she did things dolls don't do.
Maggie and Josie were not prepared for such things!
It was hard to leave on Sunday......I guess it 's a mom thing. Even though Mindy's been grown up with her own family for a long time and is such a great mom, It's times like this that-I can't imagine she can get a long without me!

Scott and Jorine's 10 K.........

2009-09-10T10:18:00.000-06:00

Scott and Jorine ran the 10k in the Pocatello Marathon!
This was their first 10K. They did great! They are both amazing. It's great that they run and train together. I was glad to find pictures of them on the website.
I feel so bad we weren't there!
For some reason....(I wasn't listening very good) I thought the race was on Labor Day.
This really thrills me!

It was only a couple years ago when they used to tell me they could never get up early in the morning like I did to work out nor, could they or would they want to run although they were working out every night after work, lifting weights and really doing hard work out routines. NOW, they are up about as early as I am every morning-running too.......It's addicting-its' my happy pill.

School Bells are ringing..the years just fly by!!!

2009-09-01T16:43:00.002-06:00

Off they all go! Some mothers are crying, some are laughing, some are just
running to grab the car keys and get away while they can! Others will follow
their kids to school and weep. Hummm? What kind of mother are you?

Johnny and Maggie....off they go
and really-a picture? They will smile this once but,
come on already!

Josie's 1st Day of Pre-school
(Check out that body language!)
I'm pretty sure that means, she's ready for Jr. High!

Drake's First Day of Pre-School (Hardly recognize him without his hat!)

Tyra 6th Grade

Tyra Kindergarden

Marathon Four Wheeler Ride

2009-08-30T15:39:00.003-06:00

The Saturday before school started we set out on the only four wheeler adventure we've had this year.

We went into Copper Basin. It was really a beautiful ride. It was a really long...long...ride. It was about 60 miles on the 4 wheelers! REALLY! My friend Fred, wanted to ride with me on the four wheeler or.... maybe he could smell our Oreo crumbs. Either way, he was very friendly. I introduced myself and everything. I would have taken him for a ride but- I think he was telling me he wanted to drive. That would have been scary!The next time we go....I will be prepared. I don't remember where I learned it but....before we left that day, I grabbed a bandanna but somehow in all the excitement forgot I had it. On the ride back to the truck, I folded it in a triangle, tied it around my face-under my goggles. From now on, I'll not go without it....I'll just be bandit on a four wheeler without a dirty face!

My Seattle Ball Game Trauma.......

2009-08-26T15:38:00.010-06:00

Friday night after the Yankee and Mariner game, Trent and Hal and I were waiting for the Ferry and a we ran into a distinguished looking man Trent knew that was also waiting for the ferry. Trent told us later he was a Senator. Trent told him we had just been to the game. He told us he had gone to Wednesday's game when they played 14 innings and beat the White Sox. Trent told him we had been at that one too. He must have noticed our long faces and said, "You didn't leave the game to get on the Ferry did you?" "Oh, it was ........." Trent told him he better not say anymore about it with me around.

We did go to that game. It was a great game. We left after the 12th inning to get on the ferry so we wouldn't have to wait until 12:15 a.m. for the last ferry to Bainbridge Island. We just barley made the ferry and Trent was listening to the game on the radio and his radio with headphones. If any of you have walked with Trent anywhere, you know he walks fast. He's at least 6 ft 4" and takes huge steps but I hated leaving that game before it was over! Had I of been two, I'd have thrown a fit. All I could do was stay as close to him as I could. My fear was that they would put Griffey in without me there. Trent knew that. He loves to tease me. Not long after the ferry pulled away from the city, we were on the top deck freezing cold and Trent's eyes light up and he told me they were going to put griffey in. I was sure he was teasing me when he said they until he shared one side of his head phones with me. He did it. After 14 innings, Ken Griffey Jr. ended the game with a run off hit and I wasn't there to see it. I missed exactly what I wanted to see...but....It's been a couple weeks now and I am especially grateful that I was in such great company. The game could have could have gone either way, there was no way of knowing. Trent, Dianne and their family found a way to get me to laugh instead of cry. I did cry when I got a text from Mike just before I went to bed. He sent it from Chicago It said: "Mom, I got up in the middle of the night to see what the who won. I can't believe it! Tell me you didn't leave the game early to get on the ferry." I froze. I couldn't even respond. I was exhausted from the drive and all the excitement that I did sleep that night but this is what I missed:
(At the end, look for the guy in the stand with the white shirt.....see the empty seat behind him.....I would have been there....smiling!)

Our Trip To Seattle

2009-08-16T12:16:00.000-06:00

Marvin Hillam Reunion at the Farm

2009-08-12T14:36:00.004-06:00

Mom and Dad were in charge of the "Marvin Hillam", my Grandpa Hillam, reunion this year. They did an outstanding job. We divided up into groups that were each taught a skill by one of Dad's sisters. These skills were actually part of everyday living when they were growing up but the methods have been modernized. Examples are: Washing clothes with a washboard, making butter, the process of straining milk and seperating cream from the milk. There was even a demo on making homeade ice cream. Aunt Grace and my cousin Molly had prepared all kinds of treats to top the ice cream or add into it. Somehow, I seemed to find myself at that station
several times. I wonder if they noticed. The only thing I feel really bad about is that I was too busy to take any pictures. These pictures are some that Barry sent-Dan had his camera out and I'd love to see his too. They are both quite the photographers. The farm is sacred ground to me. It represents courage, strength, pride, honesty, love and everything good in the world to me. I feel honored to share the Hillam name.

Swimming Lessons 2009

2009-08-07T12:40:00.000-06:00

Week at the Cabin

2009-07-24T21:58:00.029-06:00

Mindy tries to finish her book, Jordan is probably wondering if there are really any fish our there

I suspect this conversation has something to do with where Brizzo and the squirrels

Silly Tyra

Tyra Maggie and Johnny show off the Castle Jordan helped them build

This is a great sunset picture off the dock.

We had the best time on the lake this year. After a couple cool days, the
rest were perfect and we enjoyed every second!

Jessica and Josie

Johnny and Josie

Tyra, Spencer, Josie and Johnny

Hal and Scott in the Boat I think, with John and the kids on the paddle boat

Scott Skiing

Maggie, Josie and Tyra

Jessica and Jordan

One of my favorite views from the cosway crossing to Bills Island

Scott, Jorine and Brizzo

Jordan takes the wake

Hal - masters the water

TOO MUCH TO TITLE

2009-07-11T12:13:00.004-06:00

It was a busy few days!
July 3rd, Got up early:
Arrived where?

Mindy and John's New House!!!!!
Beautiful! Very Exciting!

They had worked really hard getting all moved. We were really amazed at all they had done. I felt bad to not be there to help her put her kitchen in. I couldn't imagine how she could put her kitchen away without me! Surely she needed me for that. How would she know where to put everything? But then.....I saw her new kitchen......no, she didn't need my help she has about 6 times the cupboard space that I do and has a pantry! It was a beautiful thing! Just a side note...I have never felt bad that I didn't have a big beautiful house. I really have been happy just where I am but.....if there was one thing from her house that I could pick up and move to mine.....it would be the.......can you wait......it would be the laundry room.
You should really see the laundry room.Jessica & Jordan came that night. I felt bad because by that time, I was sick-on the couch.
I guess sleeping 6 hours is not enough for two days.

4th of July JESSICA'S 10 K FREEDOM RUN

Got up early-really I was too excited for her to sleep very well. My heart ached as she put on her shoes because I really wanted to run with her. She had worked so hard to be ready-it was so exciting and I was so proud of her! Running has become an emotional thing as morning after morning for years I have tried to get my body to work with my will and mind.
I have most of what it takes, my leg just doesn't want to follow.
I was so teared up I could hardly see through the camera lens.
(Obviously I didn't realize the date was wrong on my camera either!)
Jessica's early Birthday,
we also got to celebrate Jessica's birthday while we were there too.
We made her a cake and had a little party while enjoying the 4th.
We went to the movie, golfed, cleaned, and painted the
old house across the street.
The kids were creative with the hose and dirt outside don't you think!
We stayed up late again, just eating left overs and sandwiches....just enjoying the time together because we were up early and back home Sunday morning. Hal had to be at church-he thinks the ward can't run without him now. (Just kidding, he knew-he'd be gone the next week)
After church, Tyra and I went to Mom's and Dad's to have a Birthday Party!
It was her 75th. Melanie and Laura came. It was fun to see them and have a cookout in the backyard! There are somethings that shouldn't ever change.

discovery

2009-07-07T16:22:00.004-06:00

I just found this picture on my sd card of the Tetons. We were at the
farm playing one Saturday in January and I sent Scott outside with my camera.
It's a great picture....maybe my camera is okay...and the operator is faulty!

Mike & Melissa's June Visit

2009-06-30T10:52:00.000-06:00

It was so fun to have Melissa's Brothers get married this June! Thanks Michael and Issac!
It brought Melissa and the kids home for about three weeks home and Mike home for about 10 days. One day while Mindy's kids were here we took the kids to the splash park in Rexburg.

It was fun to watch them play. Johnny loved the water, he wasn't bothered by the cold a bit.

Drake wasn't too sure about water dumping on his head at first but was pretty happy about most of it. Josie had fun washing Madelyns hair.
Madelyn just flitted around from fountain to fountain. It was pretty cute.
Maggie was too cold to play. Mike's face was peeling from a sunburn. Drake got right in his face and said,
"Dad, your face is melting off!"

Memorial Day 09

2009-06-10T10:42:00.002-06:00

Sunday we took flowers to the cemetery out in Snake River which after our meetings put us home to late to get away until the next morning when we went to the farm . We decorated Grandpa and Grandma Rices graves in St. Anthony on the way to Ashton and then did Grandpa and Grandma Hillam's there. Dad needed had a list of things he needed someone with some muscles (Hal) to help him with. We took the four wheelers in case we had time to play a little.

One of the jobs dad needed help with was to get rid of the huge tree stump. They dug it out, lifted it onto this metal tray kind of thingy ma bob (I'm sure that's it's name) and then Hal held it on while dad pulled it to the pit behind the tractor. Dad took us for a good four wheeler ride down the tracks by the river. Tyra and her friend Taylinn are on the famous rock. We ate water cress we picked from the spring and got to see this beautiful summer home some mlb baseball player built down by the river. It would be fun to know who's it was .

Another really fun thing we did that has to be documented is this....get ready, we went to the NEW CITY DRUG!!! It is just opened and is so nice. I do feel bad they don't have fresh lime milk shakes but...it's really fun. They have sandwiches, pizza and lots of good things to eat and have designed it around the theme of histoical Ashton. It was a good day.

May...we always love May

2009-05-14T12:30:00.006-06:00

Just one of my favorite little girl pics of Ty

Concert.........

2009-05-14T09:30:00.003-06:00

Do weeds really grow on temple square?

2009-05-05T10:18:00.008-06:00

Tyra and I jumped in the Honda and met Mindy, Jennifer and Mom at temple square where we enjoyed the beauty of colorful flowers and tulips in full bloom. It was amazing! Mindy was sure that if she had such beautiful flowers, she wouldn't mind pulling the weeds. We wondered if weeds grew on temple grounds. Mom assured us they did. It was fun see Jennifer. She told us all about Jake, Aubrey and what a great Mr. Mom Jeremy is. Tyra has a friend at school named, Mahanna. When Mindy heard this, she couldn't believe such a thing. Especially as she is trying to come up with a baby girl name. Jennifer does a great impression of, "Ma-Hanna, Yo ug-ley." Tyra and I tried and tried to do it as well on the way home but....we just don't have it. Mindy and John were nice to put Tyra and I up for the night. When we got to Mindy's, Maggie had posted notes on the door for Tyra. She was sound asleep but was afraid Tyra would wake up early and leave before she got to see her. It was sweet. Johnny was sporting new glasses and Josie was as funny as usual. John had pieces of chairs all over the floor. He was salvaging good pieces and ended up with one fine sturdy chair. What a guy. It was a good, quick trip! These are the pictures Tyra took at temple square.

denial

2009-04-29T15:08:00.005-06:00

What do you think about living in a state of denial? You all know that I am a sugar-a-holic. Dad has this theory that if, when we eat sugar, or something "unhealthy", we convince ourselves that what we are eating is really good for us, instead of bad for us, our bodies will use it in a healthy way. (did you follow that)? He calls it "mind over matter." This has been a long, long, long, long, winter for me. My winter survival technique was to accept dad's "mind over matter strategy"mixed with denial. I tried to convince myself that I loved winter and when that didn't work, I tried to pretend it wasn't winter. It didn't work out very well. Hopefully, after Sunday's snow storm, that is all behind us. There are signs of spring. The grass is green and the flowers are trying to wake up. The snowman background I thought was cute in January....has proved to be a bad idea. Each time I saw them....I quickly logged off. Today, I faced my fears and stayed on long enough to get rid of them and will try and remember that they are only cute one week out of the year.

what a roller coaster ride!!!

2009-02-18T22:12:00.003-07:00

Griffey Returns to Seattle! When Mike called to tell us that Griffey was returning to play for what may be his last year with the with the mariners, we were so excited! We know....they don't have hopes of having a great team again this year but having him "in the house" would be so much fun....the fans would just be so happy-it would be a thrill. Saturday, when checking on things, I was sad to read that the Braves had stepped in and Griffey may want to be a Brave instead!!! For the next five days...nothing got done around here. As long as he couldn't commit, I couldn't commit to the dishes, the laundry or anything else. Wednesday afternoon I found this little bleep on this strange site from this blog comment that said he had choosen the Mariners. Shortly after, Braves website hinted they may not really have him as committed as they had been reporting. Mike and I had been doing a little texting back and forth and then he called telling me he had decieded, and it was true....Griffey is really going to be a Mariner one last time! Apparently he was influenced by his daughter and a phone call he got from Willey Mays this morning. Now I can get back to my dishes, and laundry and oh, that's right...I didn't want to do that stuff anyway.

Could it be.......

2009-01-26T10:32:00.004-07:00

Visual Sound Production presents:

David Archuleta Friday, March 20th

Civic Auditorium

Help I've been tagged-three indulgences.......

2009-01-14T08:28:00.008-07:00

I've been tagged! Three indulgences.....hummm. My definition of indulgences is:
things I feel guilty about doing but do anyway.
1) I continue to work my silly GAP job. It is an indulgence because I don't do if for the money.
I have worked there for almost 9 years and don't know when payday is.
It's not enough money to make a difference. It is simply entertainment.

2) Itunes downloads. I can't help it...music gets me going! Just for fun...if you have a minute, listen to "I'm Awesome" by the Dollyrots and "United States of Whatever" by....I don't know who. Exercise is hard. It is painful. I am old.
Every time those one of those two songs shuffle around, they make me laugh.
Even on the treadmill!

3) Buying size 6 jeans when......a size 4 should fit.
I should just keep wearing the 4 as punishment and a reminder
that candy bars are not a food group and
shouldn't be substituted for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Now the tag goes on to: Mara, Kathryn and Kim and Lori-can't wait to hear from you!!!

2009-01-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

It's a Wrap!

2009-01-08T23:25:00.001-07:00

Dashing through the snow in a WHAT???

2009-01-03T21:46:00.008-07:00

Wish you could see the antlers Dad tied on the front of his
four wheeler! The kids loved it! Thanks DAD!

Tyra is learning to sew!

2009-01-03T21:35:00.005-07:00

C
U
T
E

P
J

P
A
N
T
S
!

Tyra's Piano Recital

2008-12-18T17:13:00.004-07:00

Tyra has been taking piano

lessons from our cute neighbor,
Heidi Anderson. She is an amazing girl
but is leaving for college. At the piano
recital, Tyra played some cute
Christmas songs and even got to play
a duet with her teacher's brother
Jared, who just happens to be
Tyra's good friend. It was great!
We feel so blessed to have such
good neighbors!

Johnny's Baptism & Maggie's Birthday

2008-12-10T16:53:00.001-07:00

Johnny got baptized! Can you believe it!
It seems like just the other day he was
teeny tiny little baby boy!
We were thrilled to get to be there
for that special occasion.

Maggie opened her Birthday Present
early. She was thrilled with a backpack made especially for her webkinz. It was just what she wanted! Now she can carry them on her back
while riding her bike!

Always Playing Catch Up!!!

2008-12-01T18:25:00.003-07:00

Every month is busy but I don't know what happened to November! It was Hal's, Johnny's and Madelyn's Birthday. We went to Linda and Blake's for Thanksgiving dinner this year. They have a beautiful new house. Linda and Mom can wave to each other from their kitchen windows! It was our married kid's off year and we sure missed them! Putting our tree up this year was a battle but, it turned out beautiful.

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!!!

2008-11-14T11:09:00.004-07:00

2008-11-13T21:12:00.004-07:00

Last weekend we met Kerry and Kent at the cabin. It was time to board it all up. I was prepared to complain about the cold wet snow but.....it was too pretty and the sooner we get it over with, the sooner we can enjoy it up there again. Doesn't it look like a Christmas Card?
Halloween

My New Four Wheeler!!!!!

2008-10-31T22:04:00.003-06:00

This is the new four wheeler Hal bought me last week. It's so nice and so is he!!! Just think of the fun!

Happy Day!!! 3 Miles Without Pain!!!

2008-10-17T09:32:00.007-06:00

Last week I convinced my Doctor that if he would just give me steroid shots, I would be as good as new. He was nice enough to go along with it after I committed to go to appointment with a Sports/Back Doctor he set up for me.

I found my optimism to be a little over zealous when I felt the same pain the next morning and have been a bit sad every since. HOWEVER........THIS MORNING, I RAN THREE MILES WITHOUT PAIN!!!! IT'S A HAPPY DAY....
What???
Okay, you can tell that isn't me because I don't live by the ocean...I was afraid I woudn't be able to fool you!

OH....NO.....Where will I get a Fresh Lime Milk Shake Now???

2008-10-17T09:08:00.003-06:00

I am so, so, SAD!!! Following is the first few lines of the article in the Post Register.

Get your box of kleenex!

History Melting Away....
Ashton Soda Fountain set to dry up Nov. 28th
After 70 years as a Main Street icon, City Drug will soon be closed. The store's pharmacy will relocate to the Ashton Clinic, but its soda fountain -- a survivor from America's Norman Rockwell era -- will shut down Nov. 28 if no takers come to keep it alive.

Week-End at Jessica & Jordans

2008-10-05T08:30:00.007-06:00

We had a great weekend at Jessica and Jordan's. Mindys Family came with us. It was good to be down there and spend time with them. They live way too far away. It was fun to see their new house.

Hal, John and Jordan golfed, we listened to conference, Hal bought me an awesome pair of running shoes, and we got to watch the Marathon!!!

When the men came home from General Priesthood Meeting Jordan found a huge Tarantula outside! Grandma Peterson would have been proud of him. After showing us all he took it out their back door and let it go.

Not dwelling.....just documenting Dow drops 778 as bailout bill fails

2008-09-29T21:25:00.003-06:00

September 29, 2008 --
Stocks suffered an historic and massive sell-off today after the House of Representatives narrowly failed to approve a $700-billion rescue plan for the U.S. financial system.

Tyra at Harvest Festival 2008

2008-09-29T15:42:00.001-06:00

Tyra's September Garden

2008-09-29T11:14:00.002-06:00

Tyra's Garden Before

2008-09-29T11:07:00.003-06:00

Mortality at it's Finest!!!

2008-09-23T11:52:00.012-06:00

Friday after school Tyra went to her friends cabin in Island Park and so Hal and I quickly threw some stuff together and went to the cabin too. It was strange being there by ourselves. It was so quiet. Each season is unique up there. In the summer time, there is so much excitement and anticipation. This time of year it is calm and peaceful. I heard a couple fishing boats on the lake and passed a couple other four wheelers and that was about it. We went on a great ride on the four wheelers. We went on the back roads to elk creek and then took that other back road towards Macks Inn but turned off on old railroad tracks trail and went to Big Springs. If I have seen it before this time of year, I don’t remember. It was amazing. The leaves had begun changing colors which lent a beautiful contrast with the leaves that were still green. It looked almost as if I had on 3-D glasses because lightest gold and orange colors popped out in front of the rest. It seemed as if they were just hanging in mid air. When we got to the bridge at Big Springs there were two moose

enjoying a good snack of foliage from the river. We took a few pictures. One thing I loved was listening to the visitors there on the bridge and watching the moose. It was fun to listen their joy in seeing it for the first time. We knew we better get back to the cabin as quick as we could because there were all kinds of storm clouds moving in and it looked as if there wouldn’t be anyway to escape getting drenched.
As we got closer to Buttermilk it started to rain a little bit but the rain drops were big and stung my face as we rode. I could hear the thunder crack around us after seeing lightning flash in front of us. We made it back to the cabin before the storm burst and were glad to be inside when it did. I had been working on the talk I had to give in Sacrament Meeting the next day before we went on our ride. Part of it concerned our choosing mortality even though we knew it was risky. When I felt the rain sting my face as we rode back to the cabin, it made me smile as I realized that had I not have made that choice, I wouldn’t have ever experienced the majesty and beauty surrounding me in this mortal experience. When we came down off Ashton hill there was an amazing rainbow that started right at the farm. A perfect place for one to begin!

Perplexed.........

2008-09-22T22:26:00.007-06:00

Wednesday I went to Rigby to get my teeth cleaned. Don’t you love that feeling? No, not while they are doing it, afterwards, when you run your tongue over your clean teeth. Okay, anyway back to TIME. It is customary to line up that next 6
month cleaning before leaving. When the receptionist asked me if March...whatever, was okay, I almost corrected her. Certainly it won’t be March in 6 months! I was expecting December. If I would have counted I too would have come up with March but March...in 6 months NO WAY!!! The next morning on my way home from the gym, I passed this retirement home. I wondered if I’d wake up in a bed in one of those retirement centers some morning soon and feel the same way I did when she asked me if March was okay......

Okay Fine!!! I Quit!!!

2008-09-16T06:32:00.003-06:00

I quit! Every morning I get up....4:15, thinking okay, this is the morning I will run without pain and I will run and run and run! For the last two weeks+, I end up in tears, frustrated and dissapointed and discouraged. I am losing my endurance from the lack of consistency and I don't know what to do!!! It's not a good way to start my day!!!

High Adventure Pictures

2008-08-26T15:30:00.002-06:00

High Adventure

2008-08-26T12:45:00.005-06:00

Saturday we went on a High Adventure. I gathered my courage and Tyra and we joined Hal and Summers for a true adventure. We had the best time. When we took off on the first trail, Hal looked back at me and I said something to him about this being a really rocky road. He said, "Oh, that's how most four wheeler trails are." Well, I hadn't ever gone with them and didn't want to be a waney and so......I went forward, I mean up. The first high mountain lake we went to was, Dairy Lake. It was beautiful! It was so invigorating. There was a little old table under some trees we had our lunch at. Hal, Bryon and McKayla hiked around the lake and we went on to the next one. These trails were trails they had never been on. When we got to the top of the second lake, Bryon commented on these trails being the roughest they'd been on and how surprised he was at how well I was doing. I guess its a good thing I didn't know better. Tyra and I rode Hal's new four wheeler and every time she got a little nervous I told her this mountain machine could go anywhere. If she would have known how scared I was a few times, she wouldn't have had near as good of a time. The only thing that would have made it better would have been if we would have been prepared to stay, maybe next Time! The smell of the trees and the fresh air did me a world of good. I decieded I better quit whinning about all the stuff I think I have to do and play more! That is a stretch but.....I am going to try!

2008-08-22T13:30:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Dan!!! I hope you had a great Birthday! It was
fun to converse with you via the WWW. I just wanted to tell you and
anyone who reads this blog that I am so proud to be your sister.
When I grow up, I want to be just like you!

A NEW BLOG....A RECIPE BLOG!!!

2008-08-22T08:55:00.002-06:00

After searching for a recipe that I knew everyone had except me, I created a new blog where we can post and share all our favorite recipes! It is brilliant! Part of the brilliance is knowing we can't loose them in a box, drawer, bag, binder or book. They will be stored on Google's gigantic server! Check it out http://themagicrecipebox.blogspot.com. It will be an awesome resource.

New SpringWidget

2008-08-18T09:09:00.001-06:00

Get this widget!

Chocolate Bliss

2008-08-12T09:02:00.005-06:00

It's 9:10 a.m. tuesday morning. Before 7:30, I had been grocery shopping, ran two miles at the gym, picked tomatoes at our garden and pulled the neighbors weeds. I showered, and was ready for the day by 8:00. But now, after finishing a bag of Hershey's "Chocolate Bliss", I feel defeated-weak and ashamed! If knowledge is power, why don't I have any! Someone help me please!

Tyra and Miss Idaho-Sadie Quigley

2008-08-08T23:20:00.006-06:00

We had the best Stake Girls Activity. Sadie Quigley, Miss Idaho 2007 came. She did a wonderful presentation. It was amazing. Keeping her high standards wasn't easy during the pageant and the reality tv show. She was bombarded with criticism. Her testimony, prayers and deep commitment carried her through. She let the girls try on her banner and crown and some of them even got to take their picture with her. This was a memory we will cherish. The spirit was so strong as she encouraged the girls to pray and listen for answers to be guided in the direction they need to take.

There is no stopping them now!

2008-08-08T23:12:00.003-06:00

Our Week at the Cabin

2008-07-29T11:19:00.009-06:00

Last week was the week we look forward to all year! It was our families week at the cabin. We missed Mike's family and Jorine. Hopefully it won't be too long before we can all be together again. Jessica, Mindy, Scott, Hal and I brought our running shoes so we could begin our day with a run around the island. It didn't take long for our abilities to separate us. Scott and Hal ran the fastest, Mindy ran the farthest. Jessica wore blisters on her feet the fist day but didn't let that stop her. There were so many highlights. Following is my top 10 list:
1-Sleeping past 4:15 and still getting to run
2-One on one time with Hal
3-Watching Scott run with Brizzo/Brizzo running with Scott
4-Watching Tyra knee board, Scott and Jordan Wake Board, and Hal finesse his water ski
5-Listening to Mindy and Scott play games with Jessica & Jordan at night
6-Watching Jordan make a sand castle with the kids
7-Telling all of the kids good night
8-Not hearing the phone ring
9-Loved the fudge Jessica brought me home from West Yellowstone
10-Days that were not mine to cook!

Catch a Kitty

2008-07-17T09:22:00.001-06:00

Playing at Grandpa and Grandma Hillam's

2008-07-17T09:14:00.001-06:00

At the Zoo

2008-07-14T15:48:00.001-06:00

STADIUM OF FIRE

2008-07-14T15:41:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Jessica and Jordan!

2008-07-10T12:03:00.002-06:00

Pug Puppy

2008-07-09T23:13:00.004-06:00

After we got back from our run, there was the cutest little pug puppy wandering around. He was so little and so cute, for minute....just a minute....I thought about taking him home. They kids loved playing with him. Later that day his owners must have came and got him. We hope they love him!

July 4th Celebration

2008-07-09T22:57:00.007-06:00

We started out the day with the Freedom Run. Mindy, Jessica and I ran the 5k. I was sure I would die but survivied--Ya Who! Jessica stuck with me most of the run but we all finished about a minute apart with Mindy leading. We were thrilled that she didn't have any back issues after the race. My brother Barry and his kids ran it also.
It was fun to have Mom and Dad there afterwards. I am going to do it again but want to be better prepared. I need to run outside and get my indurance back now that my leg is feeling better.

Hal's the Bishop Day

2008-07-09T17:57:00.001-06:00

Out my kitchen window

2008-07-09T16:47:00.001-06:00

Fathers Day

2008-07-09T12:36:00.002-06:00

I was a little, okay a lot, preoccupied with the talk I had to give in another ward in our Stake's Sacrament Meeting. I was terrified! A funny thing did happen though...really....I am not making this up...A lady followed me out to the parking lot asking if I had prepared and saved my talk on my computer because she wanted to take my talk home with her. She said SHE MISSED SOMETHING WHILE TAKING NOTES! I was flattered until I found out she may not be the sharpest knief in the drawer. We went to Blackfoot that evening to celebrate with Dad. It was a beautiful evening. Tyra loved the baby kittens she found! Look close to see one of dad's horses. I was going to wash the dishes in there!

Fathers Day 2008

2008-07-09T12:33:00.001-06:00

What happened to June?

2008-07-09T11:22:00.003-06:00

Since my last post many we have celebrated Fathers Day, the baby birds hatched, Hal is a Bishop, the percentage of vegtables and flowers exceeds the percentage of weeds in our garden, we have been to the cabin, celebrated Jessica and Jordan's Birthdays, the fourth of July and I ran my first 5k without dying!

Wicked

2008-06-19T09:03:00.001-06:00

Super Dawgs

2008-06-18T17:35:00.001-06:00

almost missed chicago pix

2008-06-18T17:06:00.001-06:00

Cubs Game

2008-06-18T16:38:00.001-06:00

Chicago Day

2008-06-18T15:20:00.001-06:00

Wicked

2008-06-18T15:05:00.001-06:00

At the Beach

2008-06-18T14:20:00.001-06:00

6 Flags

2008-06-18T13:59:00.001-06:00

Scott's Birthday

2008-05-29T22:43:00.005-06:00

Scott and Jorine invited us over for dinner to celebrate his Birthday. Dinner was great and it was fun to be there for his birthday. Seems like yesterday he was following right behind Hal with his toy lawn mower when Hal mowed the lawn. Time slips by.......enjoy each moment!

Hal's New Clubs

2008-05-29T22:32:00.005-06:00

This is very exciting! I don't know why but the golfers are very happy!

2008-05-28T13:26:00.004-06:00

Follow this link to the preface of chapter one.
Chapter one will be released to read May 31st.

http://www.mediafire.com/?wnzj1121mli

Memorial Day at the Farm

2008-05-27T11:17:00.010-06:00

Tyra and I spent Memorial Day Weekend at the Farm with Mom and Dad

Highlights:

Dad made Tyra a sling shot and taught her how to use it. After practicing their skills, they rode their four wheelers to the pit where dad set up bottles practice on.

We took tulips, mums and lilacs to decorate the graves. Dad said that when Grandpa Hillam was alive, he told them he didn't want anyone putting any stinky sneeze starters on his grave! Guess we'll have to deal with him later on that!

On the way to the cemeteries, Mom and Dad showed me where all our Grandma's and Grandpa's lived and told me stories I better hurry and write down before I forget. The picture of dad in front of the river is the spot where he was baptized. The brown two story house mom lived in-in St. Anthony.

Tyra spotted a skunk between the shed and the bunk house. When I told dad, he quickly grabbed his gun and took off after it. I hate to report that the skunk did live through the weekend. My observation was that it was pretty darn comfortable and acted as if he owned the place.

Dad drove us down to warm river and around other side to the Ashton Bridge. Mom made some very familiar noises when Dad drove up a very steep hill with a very steep edge around a very sharp curve. I think you will all remember them. Mom covered her head with her jacket and it worked like a charm.
The weather was typical for Memorial Day weekend but Tyra and Grandpa took every opportunity to ride their four wheelers all around the farm.

Tyra was brave and attended their primary. She loved the teachers magic acts. I found the new Primary President and asked if I could visit. I love primary! All through sharing time and Closing Exercises, there was this little boy who kept raising his voice asking if it was time to go home yet? After church, I waited outside and visited with the nicest man. After we got in the car mom told me he was a General Authority.

It was a nice weekend away. I forgot all the things I was feeling stressed over and now.....I am beginning to remember and better get at it!

and so I begin

2008-05-22T09:22:00.003-06:00

....and so I begin. When I check out your blog, it makes me smile! It's kind of like peeking in the window of your life. I love to see what you are up to! This will be a great way to document small glipmses of our lives.