WOODS IN THE HOOD

SAN DIEGO

2012-01-23T09:08:00.001-08:00

We just got back from a four day trip to beautiful San Diego - and we certainly know our way around that place now!

Our reason for going - following Parker to the Olympic training facility in Chula Vista. He was to spend three days at a camp/tryout for the USA Jr. Mens National Fastpitch Softball Team - yes that's right - there is a men's fastpitch softball team. They compete every two years on an international level. Parker will more than likely be included in the 2014 cycle in Canada.

He is a pitcher. How did he get into this? You can credit/blame his sister. He has been to more softball practices, games, tournaments than a normal 15 year old. He started entertaining himself by watching the pitchers and their windups. He became self taught - throwing tennis balls against fences, walls, anything. He threw and threw and threw! Last year we found a pitching coach - a legend named Pete Meredith. Pete hooked Parker up with a Men's team in the summer and apparently with the USA Mens coach.

Parker traveled with 3 other kids from Utah - we took a different flight. He was a little stressed when he realized that he had to go through security on his own, find the gate on his own, transfer planes in Phoenix and meet people he had never met before. There were players from Utah, California, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Texas and Oklahoma. Some were 15 years old like Parker - some were 19 years old! He survived. He had a great time. He felt pretty good about being there. He knows he has a lot of work to do and a lot of things to improve on. But what a great experience for him. He had a roommate he had never met - he ate at his fair share of "buffets" (where else do you take a bunch of young men) - he got free shirts and a cool hat and official credentials.

Way to go Parker!

That boy of mine, Part II

2012-01-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

He is no longer a redhead - bleached the hair last Friday - part of the swim team tradition!

I'm getting used to it! He is a pretty good looking blond!

Nicknames so far:
Ken (Barbie's boyfriend)
Swen (hailing from Sweden)

Not the best picture - but you get the idea!

That boy of mine.....

2012-01-11T15:16:00.001-08:00

Parker is such a good boy - even though we stress each other out from time to time - I think we get along pretty good.

He is quite busy with school, swim, scouts, jazz band, class officer duties, etc., etc.

He makes his Grandpa laugh - last night was no exception when he started talking about the announcements at school. He said his principal told him

"You have an Anchor voice!"

It made both me and Grandpa laugh........apparently he gives the school announcements over the intercom from time to time!

Hello 2012

2012-01-08T19:51:00.000-08:00

Well I said goodbye 2011 and now I need to say Hi to 2012. I haven't really set any specific new years resolutions - I guess that's because they are usually the same - and I usually fail on about 50% of them.

My goals for the new year, if I were to set them, would be - lose 10 pounds - exercise more - be more patient - attend Sunday School on a regular basis - love my family - be kind to others - do the best at whatever I try to do - be a better wife, mother, daughter and sister - read my scriptures - mop my kitchen floor more often - continue to try and get out of debt - etc., etc., etc.

So there you go! Maybe this year will be different - or - maybe not!

Goodbye 2011.....

2011-12-31T22:15:00.001-08:00

Looking back over the past year I can't believe that it is over. It went by way to fast and I'm not sure what I really accomplished - but I did survive.

The year started with Mom having a very bad New Year's day. I knew she was sick, but didn't realize how sick. That was the day she said that she was "afraid" and that she didn't think she had enough faith or a strong enough testimony! She fought to the bitter end, she tried to keep a positive attitude, she said she was going to walk more when the weather got better. What an example to me! I miss her more than ever! There have been so many times when I wanted to call her - have her listen to me talk - never judging and always thanking me for the call or visit. She was the best Mom (and Grandma) ever!

Because of losing Mom, I have spent more time with my Dad. He is a great man. He is kind. He is patient. He lets me balance his check book. He loved his wife more than I ever really understood. He misses her every day and tries to keep doing the things she would have wanted him to do! He has renewed old friendships and has realized how blessed he is to have his family's support!

The year was busy with just trying to keep up with life. Evan's parents have struggled throughout the year and he has tried to help them as much as he can. He has spent countless hours on the road to and from Lyman...coming home many times in the middle of the night and then going to work the next day! He is a great son and has sacrificed much to try and be there for them.

We were able to take a few trips - Las Vegas in February - Disneyland in June - Monticello/Moab in July. We spent summer nights at the Cottonwood Complex watching Parker- Fall nights at high school football games watching Willie (playing) and Preston (coaching) - going to Utah Football games and enjoying the first season in the Pac 12.

In July, I had some eye problems - tears in my retina - which required intense laser and freezing treatments to try and heal them before the retina became totally detached. This has left me with continual "flashes of light" and "floaters". My eye sight is not the best...at some point I am supposed to be rid of the flashes - but the floaters probably won't go away without surgery.

A new employment opportunity came my way in September.....I went through the interview process...spent time at the new employer's office...gave my notice to Prince Yeates....but in the end decided to stay where I was. I feel I made the right decision...I hope I made the right decision!

I am so blessed to have a good husband who loves and supports me. Great children...who have goals, who keep the commandments, and who are good examples to others!

I'm not sure what 2012 will bring. I hope it will be a great year! I hope my family will be happy and healthy!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T13:46:00.001-08:00

This year Christmas was good but different - the first Christmas without Mom. She loved Christmas! It was her holiday. She loved giving to others! She loved spending time with her family! Every year I know I would tell her - Mom you do too much! Last year I remember thinking that she needed to scale back, but I knew how happy it made her and didn't ever tell her that she needed to.

It's crazy that you don't know what will happen during the next day, let alone the next year. I knew Mom's time was short. I knew how sick she was and how crappy she felt. But she just kept doing and did it until the very end!

Last Christmas was crazy - just like every other Christmas. This Christmas was also crazy - but I found myself more thoughful - more emotional - missing my Mom even more than ever!

Dad wanted to try and do many of the same things as Mom had done during Christmas. It was important to him and he started thinking about it in October. He still did socks, he still did the Sam's supplies. we had Christmas Eve dinner and a feast on Sunday! He wanted the young grandkids and great grandkids to have presents! He gave to the neighbors and Jerry Crawford.

Mom's love of Christmas continued this year. It was different without her being here - but I don't think any of us went through the day without thinking about her!

I Swore at the Christmas Tree!

2011-12-04T18:59:00.000-08:00

Ahhh....that most anticipated day of the year....the day we put the Christmas tree up! Saturday, December 3, 2011.......

Step 1: Deciding where to put it. Should we put it in the same place as last year ---wait where was it last year...each of us has a different memory.

Step 2: Cutting the trunk and putting in the Christmas Tree stand. Where is the stand...did we get a new stand last year...where should I cut it....oh no I cut off the best part of the bottom.

Step 3: Taking it in the house. Would someone please hold the door open? Is the plastic garbage sack down on the carpet?

Step 4: Putting the lights on.....leave Cindy alone to do this....she LOVES to put the lights on (NOT!!!)

Step 5: Hanging the ornaments. I actually like my ornaments - red and gold - they were new many years ago - but I still think they are new.

Step 6: Strategically placing the imitation red and gold berries on the branches that are missing or seem a little bare.

Step 5: Finally weaving the red berry garland...bought new this year because I thought the previous garland was loosing too many berries. News flash, the new berry garland is just like the old.

Step 6: Cindy falling off the ladder.....grasping the red berry garland, trying not to pull the tree over...falling in slow motion and Parker looking up from his Itouch not knowing what to do!!!!!

Step 7: Parker standing over Cindy with his concerned 15 year old face "Are you all right?"

Step 8: Cindy carefully getting up....I SWORE AT THE STUPID "blankity-blank" TREE. I HATE this "blankity-blank" tree.... all while trying to fix the lights, the garland, the ornaments that became displaced during the fall!

At the end of the day, everything turned out okay! The tree is decorated, the house is decorated (almost), most of the boxes are put away and now we can enjoy the rest of December!!

The Coach just sat there smiling

2011-11-23T08:45:00.000-08:00

Just got a call from Parker - they had swim practice this morning.

Practice today was swimming 7000 yards - 4 miles.

Parker said the coach just sat there and smiled at them!

Happy Thanksgiving Brother Huber

2011-11-23T08:31:00.000-08:00

I was at Dad's last night when a knock came at the door. It was a cute little cub scout and his dad with a Thanksgiving card and package. The card was signed by the cub scouts and their leaders. The package included:

1 can tuna
1 can chicken
1 Cup of Noodles
1 individual serving size of Trix
1 small can of V-8 juice
4 dinner rolls (in a small package)
A paper plate
Wrapped in Christmas Cellophane with a nice ribbon

Dad asked if Trix was any good - thought he might try it for breakfast today.
Parker wondered what you did with canned chicken - Dad said nothing!

It's the thought that counts!!!!!

His Birthday came and went!

2011-10-31T14:10:00.000-07:00

Parker turned 15 on October 23rd....what a quick 15 years it has been! We spent his birthday in Southern California --- it was awesome!

He is growing into a fine young man. He is tall, handsome, smart and fun to be around. He trys to act cool outside of the family....but is really quite a goofball!

He is kind of a busy kid! He loves being a class officer at HJH. He just had his first swim meet at the high school level and is off to St. George this weekend with the team. He loves to play tennis and fastpitch softball. He loves to watch football and basketball. He plays the saxophone in the Jazz Band and Concert Band. He is a counselor in his teachers quorum.

He is kind and caring. His little cousins love him! He is a blessing in our lives!

Happy Birthday to Parker!!!!!

Beach Trip Beginnings

2011-10-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

Right now we are sitting in a two bedroom, two bathroom suite, a kitchen with granite counter tops, a washer and dryer, three flat screen tv's, etc. etc. etc. ---- oh and an ocean view.

Judy keeps thinking that someone is going to ask us to leave...that we aren't supposed to be here.

Meranda, Willie and Parker have played basketball, teather ball (Napoleon Dynamite style), ping pong, tennis and swiming/hot tubbing!

Judy and Cindy are doing as little as possible and were wrapped up in our football game day blankets watching them swim and play tennis!

We are laughing and having a great time.....stories yet to tell (better if in person)...
Stopping at what we thought was an Arctic Circle in South Jordan on our way out of town
Driving like crazy people - making it to Vegas at 1:30 a.m.
Getting lost on a toll road in California
Discovering that they actually do catch fish off the Huntington Beach Pier (a shark)
Being greeted at Crystal Cove State Park by an evil state park worker
Eating at Cocoa's tonight - having to wait for Parker's Cobb Salad and Willie's garlic bread (that apparently was frozen) - we think Cocoa was there - some woman in an animal print top.......

Anyway - we are here - tomorrow we are hitting beaches galore and if you can believe it - we ARE NOT standing in line at an amusement park!!!!!!

More to come.......
.

Congrats to Preston, Meranda and Katie

2011-09-18T17:56:00.000-07:00

After months of dedicated training, the Marathon was finally here! Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate much. They endured, rain, hail, thunder and lighting. By the end of the race, their shoes and clothes were completely soaked! But they finished!

It was crazy that we left WVC at 7:45 a.m. stopped at McDonalds and were on the freeway by 8 --they had already been running for an hour. We headed to Nibley, Utah - Mile 17. It was raining hard! There were so many runners it was insane. We got there in time to see our runners - first Meranda and then Preston and Katie.

Then back in the car to Providence - Mile 21. They were still going strong.

Mile 23 - still plugging along - just like the Ever Ready Bunny....

Next stop the finish line. Each runner was announced as they crossed the finish line (electronic chips in their "bibs"). First Meranda at 4 hours 50 minutes and then Preston and Katie and 4 hours 58 minutes. We are so proud of them! They are awesome.

Meranda said "shoot me". Preston said "What was I thinking" and Katie said "Never again!"
What a great day and a great accomplishment for each of them!!!!!

(p.s. - yes my camera sucks.....I think I need a new one)

Yesterday

2011-09-14T08:55:00.001-07:00

Was my Mom's birthday - she would have been 81 years old.

She was a wonderful mother.

She was an incredible grandmother.

She was a good wife.

She was a faithful church member.

She was eager to serve others.

She was charitable to everyone.

She was proud, but not prideful.

What a great leagacy she left!

She was afraid of "not being here". She may not be here physically but she is always here in spirit.

Somedays I feel her presence so strongly that I know she must be very close. The veil is thin and Mom is right there on the other side - happy, busy and standing up straight and tall!

Confidence

2011-09-12T15:52:00.000-07:00

Preston has always been a pretty confident person.....

When he was little, he went to bed with his cowboy boots on....
He will play sports with anyone......
He went to school dressed up as Napoleon Dynamite his sophomore year.....
He permed his hair more than once....
He went to girls choice dances with whoever would ask him.....

So last Friday, I watched as he performed his coaching duties with the high school football team....

There is my 23 year old son discussing calls with the officials while the head coach is out on the field with the players.....

I said to Annie "I can't believe my son is so confident no matter what he is doing or where he is!"

Annie said "Cindy, he's always been like that!"

I am a proud Momma!!!!

I'm Either Old, Distracted or Both

2011-09-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

Having a bit of a problem with keeping track of my plastic....credit and debit cards.

Used one of my cards at Wingers Friday night. Discovered it was gone Saturday. Called them - they had it....went and picked it up.

Used another of my cards on Labor Day at Olive Garden. Went to use it today...couldn't find it.....called them and they DID NOT have it.

I continued looking everything I could think of, and still couldn't find it. So I called my banker to report a lost card. They asked if there was any way that I thought I might find it. If so, they would just put a hold on the account and not cancel the card. I said no so go ahead and cancel it.

Hung up the phone. Called my hubby to tell him. Checked one last place while on the phone. FOUND IT!!!!

Called the bank back. They had already cancelled the card. Will get new ones in the mail "soon". ARGH!!!!!!!

Birds of Prey Continued

2011-09-06T06:39:00.000-07:00

The bird encounters of a strange kind continue for the Wood Family.

Saturday night Preston and Katie were leaving the house. They walked out the front door and down the stairs. I noticed something on the back of Katies head.

She brushed out it and away flew a bird Yes it had landed right on her head. I think it came out of the wreath on my front porch. Preston said it must of thought Katie's head was another nest.

I watched with horror as the poor little bird flew off. Katie screamed! Preston tried to be the consoling husband.

Oh my goodness, what's next???????

Junior High - ALMOST DONE!!!!!

2011-08-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

Parker started his last year at Hunter Jr. High. I've told him if he can survive junior high, he can survive anything! He should have a great year! Parker does really well in all of his classes until he gets bored! Hopefully he can hang in there and get the grades that he is capable of!

That being said, as we were going through his class disclosures last night, we made a list of the "supplies" that are required for each of his classes. The push to buy school supplies before schools starts does not apply to junior high. You think you can guess what they need, but each teacher has specific things they require for the class. I guess it's necessary for the "mandatory supply list". By the time you get to high school, the teachers figure if you don't know to bring paper/pencil/pen that's your problem!

As I read and signed the disclosures, the most interesting thing was from Concert Band. The class rules included the statement "No Disruptive Hair"! What does that mean?

Good luck Parker!

It's like peeling a Banana!

2011-08-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

I have been working at my current employer for 9 years. When I started, some of the accounting functions were being handled by the office manager "because they always had been". I haven't pushed too hard to take them over - didn't want to rock the boat.

The office manager has been with the firm for 45+ years and has been hinting at retirement for the last couple of years. Well, she has finally decided that September 15th is the day and she is having a "hard" time dealing with it for a couple of reasons. She has told me that PYG has been her life. She has given it 110%. She has forgone vacations, time with her family, etc. to work! She has had some regrets, but for the most part, I think it's obvious she has really enjoyed working here! We will miss her but I've told her she has EARNED retirement! No one works for ever!

So as we are delegating her duties - I likened it to peeling a banana - taking away her job functions one peel at a time!

Lessons to be learned......
No one works for ever
Use your vacation days - they are given to you for a reason
Everyone can be replaced
Loyalty is admirable - but not required
Keep your life in balance - keep regrets to a minimum

My favorite saying is one me and Evan remind ourselves of.....
"No one dies wishing they had spent more time at work!"

Yes I read the Obituaries

2011-08-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

I look every day - see if I know anyone - recognize any names.

When they list their survivors the children's names are listed usually with the spouse.

Today I saw one that read Susan (Brad); Allen (Tina); Brent (available)......

Interesting way to advertise!

Friends

2011-08-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big friends person. I consider my best friends to be family - Evan, my children, my sisters, my Mom.

But, I do still associate with a group of great women I became friends with while working at Coopers & Lybrand MANY years ago. Long ago in the "80's" women were not a common component in the "professional" workforce - specifically public accounting. We were what I would consider trail blazers at the firm. There were four of us that kind of carved the path for the women coming behind us. Some stayed with the firm long enough to get their experience needed to be a licensed CPA (that was me) - others stayed a bit longer. One of us made it to Manager (one step below Partner). I was the first to have a baby while working there - which didn't work out that great and Cheri hired me at American Investment Bank 6 months after having Preston.

We have been through alot in those 25 years! Cheri was the only one married at the beginning (she got married at 20) - I was next (at age 29) - then Barbara (age 29) then Kristi (age 27). We are all still married to the same men - we were all married in the temple. Cheri lost Roy 6 1/2 years ago - and has just started "dating" again.

We have been getting together off and on for the last 25 years (outside of work) - and started including our families about 15-16 years ago. We rotate homes, bring our kids and husbands, and reaquaint.

Last year was my turn to host, but with Preston's wedding I begged off - we didn't get together - kind of counted Preston's wedding. That didn't let me off the hook and last night the party was at my house.

Me, Cheri and Kristi are still working as accountants. Barbara retired from accounting - but has been driving an ice cream truck this summer to help out a friend (she is probably a little over qualified - I don't think the job required a Master's degree).

It's been a great ride watching our lives change and our families grow. We have 14 children (10 girls and 4 boys) ranging in ages 10-23. Our daughers have become beautiful young women. Our sons have served (will serve) missions and all are worthy priesthood holders. Some are athletic, some are dramatic, some are quiet, some aren't. They are all goal oriented - just like their Mom's! Our husbands are successful and supportive.

We live in Riverton, Bountiful, Cottonwood Heights and West Valley. I always get a little "tense" when it's at my house. But I survived - the food was great - the weather was great - the company was great. It was a great evening!

Discouraged

2011-08-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

I'm not usually one to get down on life, but I'm a bit discouraged.

I went to the Retina Specialist on Monday. The large tear is healing nicely, the small tear not so much and more bleeding and another tear.

No laser this time - just "freezing" shots to the new tear, which included two shots into my eye to to numb it, not fun!

On top of that I've had a tooth ache for the last week! Going to see Dr. Russell (Michael) Boulton on Thursday.

Sigh............

Still No Dead Horses

2011-07-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

On our way to Monticello, we took a detour to Dead Horse Point. It was a little further than I remember, but well worth the drive.

There were people there speaking French - I wish I could have talked to them. Parker couldn't believe that people would come all the way from France to Moab, Utah on vacation.

I don't do well with heights and my heart was pounding. Parker on the other hand was laughing at me.

The last time we were in Moab was in 2002 during the winter Olympics. Parker was just a little 5 year old and had no fear - bending over the rock wall looking for the dead horses.

Fast forward to 2011 - Parker is now a tall 14 year old - still bending over the wall. Notice the addition of new rock. Apparently in 2002, a legislator decided the wall needed to be higher. Was that because of Parker? I wonder.

Fastpitch!

2011-07-25T18:43:00.000-07:00

This summer Parker has been playing fastpitch softball every Tuesday night this summer with a Men's team at the Cottonwood Complex - and when I say men - I mean guy's in their 30's.
Parker has spent alot of his life at the ball field. Watching his brother play baseball and his sister play softball from the time he was born. He also played baseball for four years - and made the all star team one summer.

He loves to pitch! He is constantly throwing a ball! He is always looking for someone to catch for him. Last winter he started taking lessons from a "pro". Pete Meredith is from New Zealand and played on the USA national softball team. He is trying to get boys and young men interested in the sport and he invited Parker to play with his team this summer. The team is pretty bad - but Parker loves being there!

A couple of weeks ago he played in a tournament and a coach from a team out of Blanding saw him pitch and asked if would like to come and pitch for his team at a tournament in Monticello July 22-23. Parker was excited but kind of got cold feet. Well we did go and we are so glad we did!

What a great trip and well worth it. He played for Wildcat Energy Services and he got his first WIN! In fact he got two wins! He looked like a pro! He was the talk of the town! People came to see the 14 year old kid from Salt Lake pitch! They were amazed!

We are so glad we went. I am so proud of Parker!

In the Minority

2011-07-19T19:24:00.000-07:00

Percentages are used all the time to describe so many things - particlarly in the medical field.

It starts with newborn babies - they are ranked in percentiles. Well - it doesn't stop there.

When dentists started using "gas" to give you during procedures - I always declined - until one of my sisters told me how awesome it was. So the next time I went, my dentist asked if I wanted gas - I asked what the side effects were. He said will 99% of the people that use it have no problem - but sometimes it can affect the other 1%. Well I was part of the 1%! When I finally decided to use it, I actually threw up int he dentist chair!

So last weekend I had some strange things happening in my right eye - floaters - bright flashes - blurred vision. I got into my opthomologist today - he said floaters are part of the aging process and will never go away - your brain just adjusts and gets used to them - and that's it for about 95% of the people. However, about 5% of the populations "floaters" might be caused by retinal tears (not the watery kind - but the pull apart kind) - well - I'm part of the 5%.

Two tears in my retina - one large one small. Something that needs to be treated immediately so that the retina doesn't become detached and require surgery. So I immediately went to a retina specialist and underwent INTENSE lazer applications and freezing by nitrogen. Four hours later I was through with a very sore eye! I don't know how many drops I had - anestetic - numbing drops - dialations - but enough that I couldn't even open my eye. Gel put on a thing that helped keep my eye open and two injections to help numb the eye for the freezing process! Everyone in the room wore special goggles during the lazer process - except for me - kind of scary!

Tonight I'm finally able to open my eye without too much pain! I guess it's good they were treated before I needed surgery.

I can't wait to see what's my next minority percentage experience!!!!

Once Again....

2011-07-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

The family resemblence must be pretty strong.....

Asked at Shavy Jones on Saturday "Are you Annie Howden's Mom?"

"No. I'm her Aunt" as I met Annie's new neighbor Andrea.....

Shows how tired I was

2011-07-08T10:47:00.001-07:00

Shopping for fudge in the candy shop at Disneyland. I turned to Parker and Meranda and asked...

"Do you want your nuts with fudge or without?"

They didn't answer.

Disneyland 2011

2011-07-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

Another Disneyland Vacation is in the books! A three day park hopper pass is plenty to take in everything and the crowds weren't that bad for being the 4th of July weekend.

Some things we will remember:

New Star Tours ride is a bit overrated

Soarin Over California is still awesome

Tower of Terror could/should be renamed Tower of H E double toothpicks

Water rides should be done last thing of the day (and if there if you ride anything with water with Parker - you WILL GET WET (even on Pirates)

The last ART (Anaheim Rapid Transit) shuttle bus leaves the park at 12:30 a.m. on the dot

The Carnation Cafe is one of the best places to eat - especially the banana splits

Churros definitely taste better in Disneyland

The new water show "The World of Color" in California Adventure is great

Only nerds drive the Jungle Cruise ride

The train is relaxing

They need to make a special lane for the Jazzie drivers

Early morning entry is still the best

You can now take food into the park

You can spot a Utahn (or fellow Mormon) in the crowd

Short shorts, plunging necklines and tatoos were in abundance

The Monorail is in full working condition

Don't try to figure out the logic they use to determine how to control the crowds

You need a vacation after your vacation to recuperate

(Pictures will be coming....)

Birds of Prey

2011-06-27T09:28:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a trip to remember. Not only was it a long drive to Montpelier, ID, but it was intense!

It started just past Mantua, when Meranda and I spotted two weird birds walking along side the road. They looked like they were out for a stroll. It made us laugh and we didn't think anything about it.

Then we started seeing birds with weird yellow and red heds darting across the road in front of us.

As we wound our way up Logan Canyon we were entertained watching the water in the Logan River. Very high, very fast and lot of white water. We even saw a kyacker running the rapids - major idiot.

Just as we were getting to the top of the canyon before dropping down into the Bear Lake Valley, we spotted a very large bird flying in the sky, coming right towards Wilbur (aka the Calibur). Meranda exclaimed "What is that?!?!?" I looked out the windshield and was freaked out. It was a huge Golden Eagle and it was headed straight for us. Meranda slowed down, I ducked and it probably came within a foot of the car! Our hearts were pounding! Meranda said she envisioned it coming through the windshield and piercing her heart with its beak. My heart pounded for what seemed like hours! Parker was in the back seat and was oblivious to the entire event and said "What?"

We made it to Montpelier and flinched (at least I did) at every bird we saw. I drove down the canyon back to Logan. We were haunted by birds the entire ride - including one huge blackbird that came within inches of the windshield - or so it seemed.

A side note to the story, is that our yard is being overtaken by birds. I bought a Hawk for the deck to keep the birds away. I bought shiny bird's eyes to hang in trees to keep them away (even hung some in Dad's yard). Friday morning, the stupid Magpie birds were in my garden pecking at my plants - I yelled out the window to scare them away. Sunday morning, I woke up to the lovely sound of magpies in my back yard - they were in my trees - basically yelling at each other. I opened the door and yelled at them.

What the "H" is going on?????? Why am I being tormented by these feather creatures? Next up is buying an owl and moving the Hawk - I guess they have figured out he hasn't moved for a few weeks.....

She's Engaged!

2011-06-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Parker called this morning totally depressed.
His future wife, Maria Sharapova, is engaged - to some guy that plays for the Lakers!
I calmed him down and told him it was okay, he would find someone else.

Oh Parker - how I love him!

Kind of funny - kind of nice!

2011-06-24T14:09:00.001-07:00

One of Meranda's good softball friends, Erika James (EJ) got married today. Her family are converts to the church and she invited us to go to the temple ceremony - I don't think any of her extended family are members. We really got to know her family as we travelled from softball game to softball game for two years. We also got to know her husband's parents - because they came to alot of the games!

It's fun to see people in different situations. I don't think I have ever seen her Dad without a ball hat and I'm sure they had never seen Evan without one.

Her Mom and sister are way casual - but both looked so nice dressed up! Her Mom is kind of wired tight - but she looked really relaxed and happy today!

There were two other softball players parents there as well as the coach - actually holding hands with her husband!

Her little brothers were outside in suits trying to be good. They don't seem like they have grown at all - wait till they see Parker - they will be totally shocked at how tall he is. They were kind of like his little brothers.

Sarah Clark, another friend was outside when we left and asked "Where's Woody?"

It was so nice to be in the Temple. To see how happy and excited Erika was.

That's what it is all about! Tomorrow we are off to the reception in Montpelier, ID! Should be an adventure

THE BIG 21

2011-06-20T05:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Today to MKW!

Twenty-One years ago at 13:56 p.m. she was born at Holy Cross Hospital - 10 days late and I was so happy when she finally decided to enter the world. Less than 24 hours later, we left the hospital and took her home.

She was the cutest little baby - and was independent from the start! I made her wear bows in her hair - which she usually ate! I dressed her in pink and purple a lot - sorry Meranda!

As she grew up, she followed her big brother everywhere! She was quiet but thoughtful! She had great meltdowns! She screamed at her first swimming lesson! She was late to a softball game when she was 5 and refused to get out of the car! She would take her tennis ball to elementary school and throw it against the school at recess! She loved to dress up in crazy outfits! She didn't particularly like Junior High! She liked to freak people out with her fake teeth! She was a great student - and still is!

She has been known as Meranda Panda Bear with the Red Hair - MKW - Woody - Mermaid - Mernda!

She has grown into a beautiful young woman**Very goal oriented**Very focused**Very driven**She loves life**She has great plans for the future**She is a good example to her family and her friends**She has a strong testimony and knows who she is**

She is the best daughter anyone could ask for!

Memorial Day

2011-05-27T08:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend is Memorial Day.

It will be the first Memorial Day in my life that my Mom won't be here (physically).

It is a family tradition to visit the graves of family members - some close - others just because Mom thought they should be remembered.

Last year she was wheeled in her wheel chair to some of the graves.

She sat in the truck at others.

It was a tradition.

It still is a tradition.

Dad has bought the Mums.

He has ordered the sprays.

The tradition continues!

Off they go......

2011-05-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

Preston and Katie left for Argentina today. Their plane left at 9:40 a.m. from SLC and they will arrive in Argentina Saturday, May 21st around 9:00 a.m.

There were a few tense moments - plane delays because of storms in Dallas, Tx - but they made all the connections and boarded the final flight safe and sound.

I hope they have a great time.

I hope they are safe.

I hope they return home and appreciate the good old USA!!!!!

Snacks

2011-05-16T12:31:00.001-07:00

Parker is famous for some of his late night snack requests.

Sunday was one of the best yet - "Tuna Helper" - yes that's right - I was fixing it at 8:00 p.m.

Can anything top that?

It's Preston's Birthday

2011-04-28T16:57:00.001-07:00

23 years ago on beautiful spring day, Preston came into the world. He came out sucking his thumb with a "top knot" of red hair on his head.

The sun was out and it was about 60 degrees. I had worked the day before and was in the managing partners office at Coopers & Lybrand and he asked what I was doing still working. Well, I got up the next morning and started to get ready for work but went back to bed - not feeling that great. By 1:00 p.m. we were at LDS Hospital and things had started to heat up. After being in labor for most of the day, Preston was born at about 7:00 p.m.

Two days later, we brought him home -in a blizzard!!!!! So when we think that the weather is more crazy this year, it really isn't......it's actually normal.

Preston is a great son. He has always been very intense and competitive. He has always been quite mature for his age. He has always had a lot of friends. When he sets his mind to do something, he usually succeeds. He is easy to talk to about anything. He wants to be a teacher and make a difference in someone's life. I think that is quite admirable!

He has a great future ahead of him. He has chosen a good wife. When he got engaged, his Grandpa Huber told them to remember how much in love they were at that moment and remember to always love each other!

I LOVE YOU PRESTON - YOU'RE THE BEST!

Spring Break....whatever!

2011-04-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

Parker went back to school today from spring break and lasted until about noon. His ear had been hurting since Friday - but didn't seem like anything too serious. A visit to "Not so Instacare" determined he has an ear infection and a sore on his tonsil....antibiotics to the rescue...and no swim for ten days!

I tried to help him have a fun spring break fun - taking off a couple of days- but the weather wasn't very cooperative. Even with that I think it turned out somewhat okay - even if Parker doesn't think so.

Monday - went to see Soul Surfer, bought him some new shoes and an early easter present - a new WII game.

Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday - hung out with Aunt Judy, et al (while Mom was at work)

Thursday p.m. - traveled to lovely Utah County to watch the BYU softball game. Parker was totally freaking out because it took so long to get there. We saw over half the game - which was okay with me - it was COLD!!!!! Made the usual stop at the Brick Oven for dinner.

Friday - drove to Logan to see Meranda work - and watched a couple of softball games. It's too bad that the best player (in my opinion) affiliated with the USU team doesn't have a uniform - but works her "tail off" taking care of the coaches requests! Also ate at a mexican restaurant - Cafe Saboro - pretty decent for Logan

Saturday - had a yard sale - took Preston out for his birthday dinner to Tocanos........quite the feeding frenzy! He even stood up on the chair and shook a tamberine as they sang Happy Birthday to him.

The bummer for Parker was - very little pitching and tennis because of the bad weather....and now an ear infection!!!!!!

He Won!

2011-04-07T10:15:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Parker!

9th grade class officer for 2011-2012

at Hunter Jr. High.

The election process was:

Get parent approval

Write an essay

Get Teacher Recommendation forms completed

Make and display two posters

Record a speech

Prepare and record a skit

The process "weeded" out potential candidates

Grades and teacher recommendations eliminated most of them

and there ended up being only 3 people running for the 4 offices

No speech

No skit (even though we made some awesome t-shirts for the skit)

No votes will be cast

***HE'S A WINNER***

The Travels of Meranda

2011-03-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

**Disclaimer** This is the only "beach" picture I have!

Just talked to Meranda, she was walking on Waikiki Beach in Hawaii.....yes that's right! When she was hired to be the manager, they said she would probably travel with the team. Well, with budget cuts, they weren't sure which trips she would go on, if any.

She has done such a good job--and they basically love her--so the only trip she hasn't been on was the first one to UCLA. She has been to Las Vegas, Tuscon, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Corvallis, Eugene, Portland and now Hawaii. The remaining trips are to San Jose, Reno and Provo!

I have a copy of their Hawaii Itninerary - sounds like they will have some free time and some team activities. But as far as she is concerned, Breakfast on the Beach is awesome and she is sure she will want to go back some day!

I'm happy for her. She sent a picture from her Hotel room - nothing but ocean - "Holy Moly" she said...I'm happy for her!

Okay - this is funny

2011-03-16T14:36:00.000-07:00

Our next door neighbors have a daughter that is a couple of years younger than Parker. Well, I guess she likes him and it drives him crazy.

It seems like she is always looking out the front window when we come and go gazing in Parker's direction. He said that he has seen her blow kisses to him. I have been a bit skeptical. But he insists and even "pinky swears" that she does it.

So I was on the phone with him this afternoon and the doorbell rings and it's her at the door. Her mother is my visiting teacher and she is delivering a sack of candy from her Mom to me. Parker is on the phone and says to me "It's Heather Cameron". To which she says "You mean Heather Wood".

Ok Parker, I believe you!

Dad

2011-03-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

Since Mom passed away, we have been focused on her passing and what she meant to all of us. But, as I think about Mom, I can't forget Dad. I never really understood the love that Dad had for Mom until she was gone.

My Dad was always so big and strong to me. He worked hard and supported our family financially. He has served in the church my entire life. Yesterday, he came to dinner and told us that he had the same calling now as when he first started. I said - ward clerk, young men's - neither of those "Nothing" was his response, and then he laughed. You see he has been the gospel doctrine teacher for the past 29 years. A couple of weeks ago, the bishop told him that they were going to release him. When asked how he felt about that, he said it was probably time someone else had that opportunity.

He has said some poignant things over the past weeks that have touched my heart. From "I can't believe she's gone" to "She didn't teach me to cook". He wanted a younger picture of Mom so he would remember what she looked like when he meets her in heaven. He has a strong testimony of where she is and what she is doing right now! He gets tears in his eyes as he talks about her. He pays the bills, does the laundry (still three times a week), sends birthday cards...all in an effort to keep doing what she would have been doing.

He isn't afraid to accept help from his family, but still wants to remain somewhat independent. He wants to know exactly how much money he has in the checking account. He is more than willing to have someone else go to the grocery store for him, and he has ventured out a little more each week.

He is a great man, who got there with the help of his great wife! This week will be a tough one for him - 60 year anniversary on March 19th - but he won't be alone. We will be remembering and celebrating their life together!

Spring Break for MK

2011-03-10T14:10:00.000-08:00

Meranda has been traveling with the USU softball team over the past week. They left on Thursday, March 3rd and will get back to Utah on Sunday, March 13th.

She is seeing the difference between JC and D-1 softball.
Nice Hotels - only two to a room.
Flying most places.
Eating at some different restaurants (some the same - like Subway).
Driving her own van.

This week during our snow storm, she was in California wearing shorts and a tee shirt.
Today they have a day off and are going to the Beach - tomorrow to Downtown Disney.
**UPDATE** NO BEACH...NO DOWNTOWN DISNEY.....SHE'S NOT SURE WHY.

She had an all-expense paid Spring Break! What a deal.......

Another weird thing....

2011-03-02T14:34:00.001-08:00

While I'm at it - another weird thing.

When we were in Las Vegas a week ago, we were sitting at a softball game and I had set my purse in the empty seat in front of me.

Moments later, I saw a "younger" person holding what I thought was my purse....guess again....it was her's but was exactly like mine.

Later on, another person walked by, you guessed it, with a purse exactly like mine.......

Weird........

Weird Dream

2011-03-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

I don't really dream very much - but Monday night I had a doozie!

I needed to get up on Tuesday at 5:00 a.m. to take Parker and a friend to Water Polo Practice (he thought he might give it a try). Well Parker couldn't go to sleep Monday night --- which meant I didn't go to sleep and neither of us slept very well.

I don't know about you, but when I need to get up at a different time, I find myself waking up off and on during the night checking the time. That was no different Monday night, other than when Parker came in at 5:01 a.m. with a "deer in the headlights" look, I had just had the most bizarre dream.

I was leaving the house to pick them up from practice and was greeted by a cat that jumped up on me and sunk its claws into my sweat pants. I tried to shake it loose, but ended up needing a baseball bat to help. On my way to the school to pick them up, I couldn't get out of the neighborhood because there was some police activity blocking the road out. Somehow I made it to the school and they loaded in the car, but then I had to stop and get them something to eat and was trying to put some kind of gooey stuff in a paper cup. It kept overflowing and making a mess. On the way to take them to HJH, somehow we ended up in Magna.

Then I woke up to Parker's nudging "Mom it's 5!"

Wow - that was weird!

Softball Fix

2011-02-23T06:41:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we went on a getaway to Las Vegas. You see we are in a bit of softball withdrawal. This is the first year in a long time that Meranda has not been playing softball. So when we saw a huge tournament being played with some of the top teams in the nation, we thought - why not go!?!?!?!?

It was exciting to see UCLA, Tennessee, Hawaii, Stanford, Oregon, etc.
Parker saw Ivy Renfroe (the ace pitcher for Tennessee) warm up right in front of us.
The Hawaii pitcher sat in front of us on the grass.
We saw the "Icons" from UCLA.

Of course, Meranda was there, with Utah State. She didn't know we were coming. We talked to her off and on driving down the road. When we did get where they were playing, we just watched the game that was being played and Meranda as she helped the USU team warm up. At some point in time, Parker texted her "You sure look nice in your warmups". No response. Finally she caught sight of us in the stands!

Yes we are crazy and it was so good to see her with a softball team - even if she wasn't playing!

Making Memories is Hard work - and sometimes crazy

2011-02-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

Saturday, Meranda invited Parker and Willie to come up to a USU Basketball game. So - we headed to Brigham City Saturday afternoon at 2:30 - met Meranda at Maddox - ate lunch/dinner - sent the three on their way up Sardine Canyon - headed back to Salt Lake - stopped at Sams and Smiths - watched the 2nd half of the USU game on TV - headed back up to Brigham City - met MK, Parker and Willie at the Flying J - and turned around and got home about 11:45.......

Why would we do this????? Because! Hopefully it's something that they won't soon forget! After all they did get to do the "I Believe" cheer, see Wild Bill dressed up as Barney and listen to the students sing "I love you, you love me", sing the Scottsman song and end the game with "Winning Team - Losing Team" and pick up a free USU backpack!

Yes "I BELIEVE THAT WE ARE CRAZY"!!!!!

Mom

2011-01-25T06:17:00.000-08:00

Words cannot express the love and appreciation I have for my Mother. She was the best.

Her greatest possesions were her family and she loved each one of them for who they were. She loved Preston and was proud of him serving a mission. She would tease him that he wasn't so tough and that she could take him down in a minute. She couldn't believe that he would choose to be married at 8:30 in the morning, but she and Dad were the first ones to the temple.

Meranda was her redhead. She loved her long beautiful red hair. She loved it when she would curl it and wear it down. Meranda was a lap sitter and would always find Grandma's lap to sit on. As an adult, she would sit next to Grandma and hold her hand. She was Grandma's ball player and she loved watching Meranda play!

Parker totally cracked Grandma up! He would make her laugh and forget about how crappy she felt. She thought he was so good looking. He loved swimming in Grandma's pool and she loved yelling at him while he was swimming.

Evan felt like Mom and Dad didn't think he was good enough to marry their daughter. But they grew to love him for who he was. They saw what a good husband, father and son he was and appreciated that about him. Mom would ask him to do things and she knew he would do it in a heartbeat and that it would be done the way she wanted.

I was Mom's last daughter to get married and we spent a lot of time together as adults. When I got married, she told me she was losing her best friend. There were times when I didn't feel like I was a very good daughter. It has been difficult seeing her struggle during the last year. I had the opportunity to help them at their doctor appointments - three times during January - and sometimes it was exhausting! Friday morning I spent a couple of hours with them at the doctors office. Mom was in a bad way and Dad was very concerned. I think we both knew her time to leave us was near but we would be there for her as long as she needed us!

I was so grateful for the time we spent with them as a family on Thursday night. Meranda had driven down for my birthday and we all ended up at Mom's house with ice cream cake. She felt like total crap but she laughed and popped off. I am so thankful we were able to spend that evening with her as a family. It is something I will cherish for ever!

Mom was an amazing woman. I know she is watching over us and will be forever!

I love you Mom!

Family Matters....

2011-01-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

I'm so thankful for my family.

Husband, children, parents, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews

They are the bright spot in my life.

I don't know what I would do without them.

Enough said!

It's my Birthday and I'll post if I want to!

2011-01-19T06:54:00.000-08:00

Today, January 20th, is my birthday. It's a nice even number day even though it is in January. Every 4 years the President of the United States is sworn in on my Birthday. I never really liked having a birthday in January. All of the stuff in the stores is left over from Christmas, the spring merchandise is being put out, but who feels like buying that in January!?!?!?!?!

I've lived a short (or somedays) a long 54 years. I don't feel like I'm 54 whatever that is supposed to feel like.

So I've been thinking about what I have done in those 54 years. The other night Parker told me that his Keyboarding teacher was a Sterling Scholar in Business. I told him that I was and he was surprised because he didn't know that. My life B.M. (before marriage) is somewhat a mystery to my family because I don't really talk about it much. So as I have been reflecting about those "early" years I thought that there probably are some things that the readers of my blog might like to know........

I started playing the piano when I was about 5 years old. I only had about 4 weeks of formal lessons - and was self taught with the support of Mom. I played my first solo at my 2nd grade Christmas party and was accompanying the school choir in 6th grade. I was the ward organist from about the time I was 13 (and still am today).

I attended Webster Elementary for Kindergarten and 1st grade and then went to Lakeridge Elementary starting in 2nd grade when it was a brand new school. I was on the student council in 2nd grade because Mike Fraser, the President of School, picked me and I hated it! I started playing the clarinet in 3rd grade, which was early and was because I already knew how to read music. I was a 4th grader in a 4th/5th grade split class and that year I was invited to my first "boy/girl" birthday party. Mr. Bates was my 6th grade teacher - who moved to Idaho and his son served a mission with Evan - and he actually came to my wedding - small world.

Brockbank Junior High was a time I would like to forget, but luckily it was just for 7th and 8th grade. I was kind of a geek, played in the band, took all the honors classes and pretty much hung out by myself at lunch. I had 7th grade gym with all of the 8th grade cheerleaders. Showering after gym class was mandatory and probably the most degrading thing I have ever had to do. I was exposed to kids my age "smoking" when a girl in my gym class lit up outside while we were playing a softball game. We actually started wearing "dress pants" to school when I was in Junior high - it was dresses up to that time.

High School began as a Freshman at Cyprus High and I was "Judy's little sister". I tagged along to the games with her and her friends and somehow survived. But I did get involved in high school, partly because of Judy's example and decided to try to enjoy high school. I was in the Band, Pep Club, Keyettes, FBLA, National Honor Society, Copy Editor of the Yearbook, on Song & Yell Committees and the Graduation Committee Chairperson. My senior year, I won a couple of awards during Spirit Week - dressed up as a Hillbilly on "Sticker-gitter-day" (first place) and as a "Greaser" on 50's day (honorable mention). I was President of both FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) and Keyettes (a service organization). I was chosen as the Business Sterling Scholar and made it on Television as one of the 12 finalists and I wore a new blue floral formal with a scarf tied around my neck. I wrote the winning "Original Song" my Senior Year for Song & Yell. I graduated 13th in my class with a 3.93 GPA and earned a scholarship to the University of Utah. Toddlers & Tiaras have nothing on me - I competed in the Miss Magna Contest with Magna Water as my sponsor.

After High School, I attended the University of Utah and was on a Business Advisory Committee my Freshman year and actually ate dinner in the home of Jon Huntsman, Sr. - he was the Dean of the School of Business and I had no idea who he was. I worked the entire time I went to the U and took mostly night classes. It took me 11 years to finally graduate with a Bachelors Degree in Accounting. I was a member of the business fraternity, Beta Alpha Psi and was Vice President my last year! I did an internship with the Big 8 accounting firm of Coopers and Lybrand and then accepted a full time position with them after graduation.

I could go on and on - but I think that's enough for now. All of the things I did "back then" helped develop who I am today. I'm thankful for the experiences - both the good ones and the bad. I don't think I will be around after another 54 years - but you never know!

1-11-11

2011-01-11T10:57:00.001-08:00

What's going on today - 1/11/11........

Weather - cold, cold and colder. The temp in Logan was 2 below this morning. Parker texted Meranda to let her know. She said she threw another layer on.

Gas prices - not too bad today - with my 10 cent discount at Smiths - I paid $2.53 a gallon.

Sports - Hunter plays Skyline - the Utes play BYU. Hopefully one of them will come away with a win - if so - I doubt it will be the Utes.

Work - being an accountant, my work is based alot on dates - closing dates - posting dates - reporting dates - today hopefully is a closing date - but probably not.......

School - end of the semester for Parker this week) - start of a new semester for Preston, Meranda and Katie.

2011

2011-01-06T10:14:00.000-08:00

I've reflected just a bit on 2010 and am looking ahead to 2011.....not really knowing what it will bring. Parker asked what my New Years Resolution was. I told him the same as always - lose 10 pounds. If I actually succeeded in this annual resolution, I wonder what I would weigh???

So what will 2011 bring - hopefully good things! I am looking forward to.....

Vacations - actually going to take a couple without a softball game to watch

Anniversaries - Mom and Dad's 60th! Evan and Cindy's 25th! If we are still kicking at our 60th, I would be 90 and Evan would be 87.

Financial Freedom - setting goals and accomplishing them

Home Improvement Projects - finishing the exercise room, remodeling the downstairs family room (we need a bigger room with more seating), turning Preston's bedroom into a guest room.

Yard Work - Enhancing the back yard with a fire pit conversation area, rose bushes on the south side of the house, taking out multiple trees and relandscaping a bit.

So there you go ---- I'm pretty sure the "fun" things will happen - hopefully the "work" things will happen too - because they would be fun in the long run......

Traffic Lights that Drive Me Crazy!

2010-12-20T13:48:00.001-08:00

5200 West 3500 South - if you are in the left turn lane, the wait is extremely painful. You can be the only car for an eternity while the light stays red, as soon as cars approach from the east or west you can bet the light will change! I have been known to "not wait it out" and have gone through the red light, keeping my eye on it in my rear view mirror to see how long before it finally changes......

200 East 400 South - again the left turn lane. I turn at this intersection EVERY morning. If you don't drive exactly in the right place, the green arrow is not your friend! Also - it is right by the SLC Library and I have been yelled at by it's wonderful patrons as they cross the street (it is a huge homeless shelter)

500 West 400 South - again the left turn lane (which seems to be a recurring theme). Several issues, including the evasive green arrow. But, the most frustrating is when the green arrow appears, but the traffic is backed up into the intersection - so no where for me to go. I end up going in the inside lane and then squeezing into the turn lane.

But my biggest issue with ALL TRAFFIC LIGHTS is.....the light changes to green....and the cars ahead of you don't move.....what are they waiting for - a special invitation!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!

Okay now I feel better!

Reality Town

2010-12-16T14:36:00.000-08:00

I volunteered to help HGH's Reality Town today - quite interesting. I was in the "Bank" booth - helped kids with deposits and checks, etc. The woman sitting next to me was from Cyprus Credit Union. After she worked with a couple of students, I was kind of surprised about how confused she seemed helping the kids with their check register. So I asked what she did for the credit union, her response "Just about everything". Okie dokie.....that's why I don't bank at Cyprus Credit Union. (A side note, as she was gazing at my red hair, she asked where my son got his red hair?????)

The kids were given their "job/salary" based on their GPA last term. They also earned extra money if they dressed up for their job. Not hard to figure out which students had the good jobs and salaries!

I felt bad for the girl who was a trash collector - but it didn't seem to bother her.

One boy tried to join the Military for extra money - but he didn't pass the test.

Parker was a Human Resource Manager and had a Masters Degree - pretty impressive and I could actually see him doing this in real life. He was also a divorced father with sole custody of his 7 year old son. He was telling everyone that his ex wife was a druggie and was in rehab!

Parker finished visiting all of the required booths and started answering the extra questions - and a group of his friends gravitated to the bank and did the same thing!

It's not hard to tell which kids will be successful in life.........

Aren't you Willie's Mom

2010-12-10T12:23:00.001-08:00

I went to Ream's last night with dad and made a visit to the bakery to get the donut special.

The girl helping me asked "Aren't you Willie's Mom?" "No, I'm his Aunt."

I guess the family resemblence is strong! I've been asked variations of this question many times.

In a Payless store in Sandy about 10 years ago, random woman, random question "Do you know Geneil Stapley? You look just like her".

At a car lot, Geneil was asked "Do you know Cindy Wood? You look just like her."

Telephone conversation with Terry Ward when we wanted him to finish our basement, "If you hadn't said who you were, I would have thought you were your mother."

At a CPA luncheon many years ago a person at my table, "You look just like someone I went to law school with. Do you know John Huber?"

Oh well - there are no other people that I would like to look like, sound like, or be like, than my family - except do I really look that much like Johnny??????

Ooops I did it again!

2010-11-22T19:57:00.001-08:00

I didn't do the "every other day" post - I've decided I'm pretty boring.

Some random things I've thought about today.....
What to get a 14 year old for Christmas?
November 22nd - the day JFK was shot and my cousin, Scott Barnes, birthday.
It's really cold outside.
Spending Thanksgiving in the WC (Wayne County) - when we go depends on the weather.
Who cares if Bristol Palin is a finalist on Dancing with the Stars.
My 401k plan is so performing much better than it was 1 year ago.
Looking forward to MKW coming home!
Evan's birthday on Sunday - need to get him a present
Glad the Utes got a win.
Hope the Utes get another win.
Annie is a great writer and has cute kids
Haley is also a great writer and has a cute "kid".
Facebook is stupid.
Bye Bye Birdie at HHS was disturbing.
I'm tired of the TSA news.
Will I get a raise, a bonus, anything?
I can't believe we mowed the lawn Saturday morning (to pick up the leaves).
We should have put up the Christmas lights Saturday (instead of mowing)
Why does my mom keep giving me her hand me downs

What Now.....BAM!!!

2010-11-19T13:50:00.000-08:00

The title of this post is taken from Parker. You see Parker has always had a bit of a talking problem....particularly in school.

When he was in first grade, his teacher, Mr. Longhurst, kept moving his desk from place to place around the classroom trying to find someone he could sit by and not talk. He had tried everyone and everyplace and decided to sit Parker next to his desk. Well, within about 30 seconds, Parker and Mr. Longhurst were in full conversation!

In sixth grade, his teacher Mrs. Shepherd, described Parker as a future SBO - because he had that kind of personality.

At our first PT conference at HJH, his science teacher, Mrs. Grossaint, said that Parker needed to talk more. WHAT????? Well within a few weeks he was talking and driving Mrs. Grossaint crazy.

This year again at PT conference, his history and science teachers both said that he had a talking problem. Mr. Dahl the History teacher expressed his concern to Evan (I was visiting with another teacher). He said that Parker talked to much and that he better be ready for the states test that was coming up. Evan replied "No problem, he'll get 100%", and of course, Parker got 100% - with no studying! So the talking problem continued and Mr. Dahl gave Parker a '2' in citizenship.

Mom and Dad (i.e. the Nazi parents) were not amused and were quite concerned, but after much soul searching and discussion, hopefully Parker is getting on top of controlling his mouth. The goal we gave him was to become invisible in class.

So back to "What Now....BAM!" This week, Mr. Dahl handed Parker his first term certificates for High Honor Roll and Outstanding Citizenship!

"WHAT NOW....BAM!!!!"

Kind of Every Other Day!!!

2010-11-17T14:08:00.000-08:00

My goal of posting every other day in November has not been 100% - but close. But like most of the goals I have, that doesn't mean I can't get back on track.

Reading Annie's blog makes me feel like I'm not much of a writer - I guess that's why I chose to be an accountant. We do write - but it's usually factual - not much of a story involved. I am truly a numbers geek. Just ask my family.

I calculate things in my head. I count my steps as I am walking and know how many steps it takes to walk a mile. I count the stairs to the basement everytime I go down them. When I watch a softball or baseball game, I like to have a scorebook to keep track and I calculate batting averages after a game for every player. I balance my checkbook every month. I used to pay exactly 10% tithing - now I will round up to the nearest dollar (that was a huge step for me). I can whip out an income tax return in nothing flat. When on a road trip, I calculate what the odometer should be when we get there.

So no I'm not the best writer, but as far as numbers go I can hang with the best of them!

They lost again!?!?!?!?!?

2010-11-14T17:02:00.000-08:00

I don't know what has happened to the Utah football team - but I sure hope they can fix it and finish their last two games with a "WIN".

Go Utes!

He's Gone

2010-11-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

That is the message I received last night at 10:57 p.m. from Blaine's youngest daughter.

He was a good person and I'm thankful that I was able to spend many "sports" seasons with him!

The Rest of the Story

2010-11-10T07:24:00.000-08:00

I went to the Salt Lake City Courts this morning to contest my parking ticket that I got on Saturday.

Come to find out it wasn't for parking it was for an expired registration - I haven't changed the sticker on my license plate.

It's still for 2010 - CRAP - it's home on the counter. I guess I'll change it tonight!

The trip was worth it though - they reduced my $30 charge to $10 - which made me feel a little bit better -- and-- if I hadn't made the trek across the street, I never would have know what the ticket was really for!

Uncle Blaine

2010-11-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we went to see Uncle Blaine in the VA Hospital...he has taken a turn for the worse.

It's crazy to think that just three months ago he was at Preston's wedding reception and actually looked good. He told us at that time that a growth had been found in his stomach and that they were going to do a biopsy on it the next week. Well it ended up being cancer and he decided to go ahead and treat it with chemotherapy. He was moved to a care facility and spent some time at the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

Last Friday he was readmitted to the VA Hospital with a bacterial virus. He is in MICU (Medical ICU) and we had to put on gowns and gloves before we could go visit. Mom and Dad went in first and then when he asked for a blessing Evan and I went in. I couldn't believe my eyes. He didn't even look like Uncle Blaine and was nothing but skin and bones. His hair was long and combed straight back. His words were slurred but he did know who we were and he actually asked how my kids were....that's the thing...he has watched my kids for about the last ten years as they have participated in sports.

He is a sports nut! Every sports season, I would send him a schedule and he would usually show up - good weather and bad. I remember at one time he told me while watching a Hunter football game, that if he was still alive at 80 that someone should just take him out and shoot him. I also remember seeing him when he turned 80 and asked if he still wanted that - he said no. Last week he turned 82 years old!

He has lived alone for quite some time in a little apartment on 9th West. His three living daughters were at the hospital last night and were not handling things very well. When a nurse came looking for some consecrated oil, Evan pulled his out. Vicki (his 2nd daughter) said "Oh you Mormons!" I turned to her and said "Vicki, your a Mormon too!" to which she replied "I don't even know where my ward is". It's times like this that I'm glad I have the gospel, together with the faith and knowledge that it give me. It makes me sad that they don't have it in their lives.

When I left, I went to talk to them and told them how much their Dad needed them right now. I did it with a smile and told them stories of Grandpa Eccles and that their Dad reminded me of him and how my Mom reminded me of him....as he got older he got kind of grumpy and would say anything he wanted to...just like their Dad and my Mom...but again that he really needed them right now.

As we talked on the way home, we talked about how people deal with relationships, illness and death. In the last few years, Blaine and Mom had developed a really good relationship. Our family (the Huber's) have invited him to family events - blessings, baptisms, mission farewells, weddings - and he would come!

I'm not sure Uncle Blaine will make it and I don't know how this will affect his kids, but for me I'm glad our family had the chance to get to know him and have him be a part of our lives!

They lost....

2010-11-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

My team lost today - sad day at the University of Utah. I know it was only a game, but you always hope for a win, especially on a day when BYU actually won a game...and now there is church tomorrow.

I know some BYU fan will just have to say something about it so I have been practicing comeback lines
Yes, the U lost, but we still have won twice as many games as you - or
It's about time you won a game, I'm really happy for you - or
You know, I graduated from the Univerity of Utah, where did you graduate from? Oh that's right, you didn't go to college!
We've lost one game, now how many have you lost?
Are you serious, they really lost, I'm glad you told me!
Have you ever been to a BYU game?

The worst part about the day is that I got a $30 parking ticket!

HJH History Fair

2010-11-04T11:35:00.001-07:00

I've decided to post every other day in November - blog posting month - because I can't quite seem to make it every day.

Last night we went to the History Fair at Hunter Jr. High to see the exhibits. Parker's looked great! He said it looked "sexy" - because he is "sexy" and his "sexy" parents helped him. I'm not sure where the "sexy" comments are coming - but what the hey!

So as we looked at the projects, there were some good ones and some not so good ones. Some with a picture and words on a piece of poster board, some written by hand, some with goofy art work and weird colors. Some were easy to figure out the topic - others - well - it was a stretch!

We have done our share of History Fair Projects with Preston, Meranda and now Parker. The most acclaimed one was MK's in 9th grade - it won 1st place at HJH and 2nd place in District. Preston did a group project once - the teacher said it was probably the best in content - but the presentation was "interesting" (no help from Mom)! Parker's is right up there with the best - he is willing to have anyone help with his!

Crazy scary....

2010-11-02T12:50:00.000-07:00

Today I went to use my debit card at lunch and couldn't find it....tore my wallet and purse apart....thought about when I had used it last....what I was wearing, etc.

I'm think (know) I'm weird because I check my bank account on line every day - sometimes twice a day - no strange transactions had happened. The last time I used it was Friday night at the Spaghetti Factory.

Called them when I got back to my office --YES--they have it.

It's nice to know there are still some honest people in the world!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO PARKER

2010-10-23T12:41:00.000-07:00

Today is a great day - the day Parker was born - just 14 years ago.

I remember it like it was just yesterday (sigh).

He reminded me that next year, he could get his learners

permit.....I don't think so.

Things about Parker

He has a kind heart

He is a good brother, son, cousin, grandson, nephew, etc., etc.

He likes the Yankees - now he is rooting for the Giants

He got a new fancy tennis racket and bag for his birthday

He is a good student

He is like his dad in a lot of ways - and like his mom in some ways

He has nice thick auburn hair that he is growing out

He wants to be an architect - or a teacher

He is a good example to others

He is "popular" - so he thinks

He has a bit of a competitive side

He watches ESPN sports center all the time

He is a great "texter" - maybe too great

He is growing like a weed

What a blessing he is in our family!

We love you Parker

What a day!!!!.

2010-10-11T15:22:00.000-07:00

6:00 a.m. Got up for work as usual
6:15 a.m. Made sure Parker was up
6:48 a.m. Left to take Parker to Jazz Band
7:00 a.m. Went to Post office to buy stamps and mail a card to Uncle Blaine
7:10 a.m. Went to Smiths to fill up with gas
7:33 a.m. Picked up Parker at school after Jazz Band to go to Orthodontist
8:00 a.m. Arrived at Orthodontist with Parker
8:53 a.m. Asked Gail at Dr. Stephens if Parker was alive
9:10 a.m. Left Dr. Stephens Office (asked Parker why it took so long - he said he knew things weren't going well when Dr. Stephens took his gloves off and threw them!
9:20 a.m. Bought breakfast at McDonalds
9:45 a.m. Took Parker back to school
10:10 a.m. Finally arrived at work
11:00 a.m. Evan call to see if I wanted to do lunch - sorry - I just got to work
12:00 p.m. Listened to Sim Gill - candidate for District Attorney - liked him - will probably vote for him
4:27 p.m. Taking a break from a busy day to blog.......NO WONDER I'M TIRED - and I still have the night ahead of me.......

Miguel and Natalia

2010-10-01T13:24:00.000-07:00

Preston picked up Miguel and Natalia in Las Vegas on Thursday morning at 6:00 a.m then turned around and drove them to Salt Lake. They made stops along the way including the Temple and Visitors Center in St. George.

Miguel was intrigued with the big trucks and motorhomes traveling on the freeway. They were both impressed that people actually obey traffic laws and they were thrilled to be in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Miguel and Natalia are converts from Villa Ballestar, Argentina. Miguel travels quite a bit for business and when the trip to Las Vegas was so close to General Conference time, Natalia decided to make the trip. They became interested in the church over three years ago, but because getting divorced and getting married is not an easy thing to do in Argentina, they were only able to get everything in order to be baptized a month ago. Needless to say, they had contact with many missionaries, many of whom live in Salt Lake City.

Preston took them to a Football game, which they said was boring. They were able to meet Judy, Annie, Elliott, Wyatt, James and Molly.

After to game, they rode home with Evan and Parker. I was only able to spend about a half an hour with them, but felt their love for the gospel. I showed them the "countdown" poster of Preston's mission, they took a picture of it. We showed them the wedding book , they "ooo'd and aahd" about the pictures of the temple, the bride and groom, and all the cute kids - and they took a picture of the book. They actually make wedding cakes (Miguel is a baker of some sort) and Natalia's mother designs and sells wedding dresses. She has a website, which they quickly showed us on their laptop.

As they left our house, they took a picture of us with them and gave me the "warmest" hug I think I have ever had, which said to me thank you for letting your son go on a mission. In their broken Spanish, they told us what a great missionary Preston was. Evan (who can still communicate in Spanish) thanked them for listening to the missionaries and for supporting our son in the mission field.

It was great having them in our home!

MK's New Job

2010-09-28T15:13:00.001-07:00

So if you haven't heard, Meranda has a job, if you can call it that. She is a manager for the USU softball team!

It started out with her just wanting to be involved, most likely on a volunteer basis, and has now evolved in a full blown scholarship position.

Perks include traveling with the team, team gear, priority registration, access to the athletic study hall and tutors and MONEY!!!!!!

The first day she showed up wearing SLCC stuff - that's basically what she wore for the last two years. The coaches asked what she had on and asked her sizes. The next day she had USU shorts and shirts.

Saturday she showed up at a clinic with a pink hoody on - the coach asked "what color is that". Monday she came home with two travel outfits (one blue and one grey), hoody and sweats, a backpack and a duffel bag (both with her initials on them).

Coach K (head coach) told her you should have USU softball gear on or nothing! I hope Meranda will wear the softball gear!

Sick!

2010-09-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

We (I) have been sick in our house since last Friday.

It started with a sore throat and headache, moved into running nose and body aches, evolved into congestion, sinus pressure, coughing and chills!

Parker came home from school early on Monday - I think he was sick - but maybe he justed wanted to be home with me. We rented "The Last Song" - I didn't know it was sad - and it didn't really help with the congestion and runny noses.

Evan came down with it yesterday - stayed home today!

YUCK!!!!!!!!! I hope it is on its way out.......

Gotta love Football!

2010-09-20T09:03:00.001-07:00

I love watching football games! I don't know how many football games I have been to in my lifetime - but it has been alot!!

When I was younger, my dad had season football tickets at the University of Utah and he would take a different child with him to each game. I remember the long walks up the hill trying to keep up with him, the cokes and popcorn, the people smoking all around us and the annoying Wyoming football fans that would show up when we played them. As I got older, I used the binoculars to try and find cute boys in the student section. I attended many games when I was a student and after getting married, we have had season tickets off and on - more times on than off!

I started going to Little League football games when my cousin Scott played and then my brothers - Dee, John and Ed - then Preston (and Parker for one season) and nephew Willie....again many games in good weather and bad!

Then high school football - watching games when I was a student - watching my brothers - and then watching Preston and my introduction to Hunter High School football!

During Preston's career at HHS - the varsity football team lost only 6 games - winning 30! The JV team's record was probably close to the same! Preston played JV two years and Varsity all three years (starting his jr. and sr. years) - which was well over 60 games - and I probably made it to 99% of them! This year at the "U" there are four players on the team that Preston played high school ball with and it is fun to watch them - in fact two of them scored touchdowns in the game last Saturday!

Football players are a different "breed" - and it's not for everyone - but it sure is fun to watch!

SHE'S AN AGGIE!!!!!

2010-08-27T08:37:00.001-07:00

Meranda is moving to Logan today. She starts school on Monday and I guess she is now an AGGIE! It could have been worse - she could have been a COUGAR!

We went to see her apartment on Sunday - really small - really close to campus - met some of the people in the complex - two were guys - they are all in the same ward - she will continue her policy of not dating "wardies" (guys in her ward).

A woman in our ward told her she would probably meet some Idaho Farmer and marry him! So when we went shopping, we decided to look for clothes that might attract an Idaho Farmer - she looked like a polygamist - gave up on that idea in a hurry!

Good luck Meranda - study hard - have fun - and get ready for when the snow falls!

Whew!

2010-08-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

Parker made the HJH boys volleyball team on Thursday. He was sweaty, hot and happy when MK picked him up from practice!

No swim team for him!

Late news - but the wedding was great!

2010-08-25T08:21:00.001-07:00

Preston and Katie were married on August 12, 2010.

It was a great day - perfect weather - handsome son with a beautiful wife!

Is it too late to fast?

2010-08-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

We are trying desparately to find something that makes Parker "tick" and keeps him active. He has played soccer, baseball, basketball, football, swim, and tennis - and today he is trying out for the Hunter Jr. High Volleyball team.

The deal is he needs to something physical, so it's either volleyball or back to the swim team.

Swimming is a pretty hard sport - early morning practicies - after school practicies - and you smell like chlorine all the time.

So last night at dinner we were talking about volleyball tryouts and about making the team when he asked "Is it too late to fast?"

No fasting, but prayers are being offered!!!!!

Parenting?!?!?!?!?

2010-08-06T15:29:00.000-07:00

Most days I think being the parent of adult chidren is harder than being the parent of a newborn. But then I compare the two and they are basically the same.

You bring your newborn home and they keep you up all night.

Your adult child brings themselves home and keep you up all night.

Your newborn relies on you for food, shelter, clothing and love.

So does your adult child, plus car, cell phone, computer,

Your newborn gets upset at you....so does your adult child.

Your love your newborn unconditionally....ditto for the adult child!

She's almost 80 and can still touch her toes!!

2010-07-14T08:18:00.001-07:00

So last night me, MK and Evan went to visit Mom and Dad/Grandma and Grandpa. Grandma said she had a yellow dress Meranda could wear to the wedding.

Meranda tried on amazing "formals" from the seventies and eighties....
White with Red Polka Dots (from Jackie's first wedding)
Pink/Blue Floral (from my Sterling Scholar appearance on TV, circa 1975)
Black with flowers and weird sleeves (not sure where this one came from but I think it was mine)
Yellow Nylon Thing (Grandma wore at Chris's wedding)
Off White Dress with Buttons on the sleeves (which I think Geneil wore to a prom)

She looked great in all of them - and the shoulders fit her!! She's tempted to wear one of them, with no shoes and her hair braided - just picture the women in either Jesus Christ Superstar or Hair.....

Don't know how we got on the subject of toe touching - but we all did it - even Mom (with instructions to stand by her in case she fell over)!

She may have a lot of health issues --- but toe touching is still something she can be proud of - and she was happy that her grandaughter gave her a blast from the past fashion show!!!!

I love my kids.....

2010-06-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

I've grown up with my kids. Preston was the first try at motherhood. Being "old" and kind of set in my ways it was hard being told what to do by a BABY - but he did a good job! After the first few months, he was pretty easy. The hardest part was finding a daycare provider that I trusted. He was watched by a variety of people from his Aunt Jackie and Judy to a Brazilian woman named Santina Smith. He has always been an early to bed kid - often times just going by himself when he was tired. Now he is ready to "leave the nest" and start a life of his own with Katie.......

Meranda came along next - my little cabbage patch doll - she was totally opposite of Preston - didn't like to go to bed - which is true to this day. She literally followed in her big brother's footsteps and was not about to be left behind. She walked at 9 months and was toilet trained at 18 months! She played with Preston and his friends all summer long - basketball, baseball, fishing - you name it she was right there! Now she is ready to "leave the nest" and move to Logan and become an Aggie......

Parker was the total surprise - always wanted 4 kids - was lucky to get 3 and had totally given up on that. Then we decided to build a new house - and Parker decided to join the family! I dreamed about the dark haired baby boy I was going to have - yeah right - the first two had very little red hair. Much to my surprise - he was my dark haired baby - with beautiful brown eyes. He has yet to decide what his passion is - but he is a good boy, a good student and is very social (i.e. a chick magnet)! He is "not ready" to be the only child at home......

So yes I have grown up with my kids - they have taught me patience and unconditional love. I would do anything for them. I'm happy when they are happy and sad when they are sad!

Evan calls me the "MOMMA BEAR" - not a bad thing to be!!!!!

Sorry MK...Happy Birthday

2010-06-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I forgot to post HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MERANDA KAY WOOD - my favorite daughter. She turned 20 on the 20th!!!!!

We are so blessed to have her in our family. She is the creme in the oreo! She is the icing on the cake! She is fun, beautiful, smart, faithful, patient, helpful, competitive, dedicated, spiritual, athletic and committed!

She has a plan for the future and will be off to USU in August!

Happy Birthday Meranda! You're the best!

Technology is a wonderful thing.....

2010-06-16T15:08:00.000-07:00

I sent my nephew, Peter, a text message wishing him a Happy Birthday yesterday (one day late) and received one back from him this morning. You might wonder why it took him so long - well he is in Paris, France!!!!! We "instant messaged" each other for a few minutes - quite AMAZING.

Back in the olden days, if you went out of the country, or even to California, the only way to communicate was by regular telephone, postcard or letter. Pictures were taken and hopefully developed when you returned home. Peter is posting to his blog - pictures and things he is doing - as they happen!

On Saturday, I am presenting a workshop at our Stake RS conference - titled "Digital Detachment" - focusing on not becoming so dependent on digital devices that we become detached from our families, God, etc. Annie helped me with a power point presentation for the class - we did it at her house - she emailed it to me at home and work - and it is now ready for Saturday - which will be shown via a laptop/projector to the women of the stake. I don't own a laptop - so I am borrowing Judy's.

When I was in Public Accounting, I bought the latest and greatest Compaq "portable" computer. It was the size of a medium sized suitcase and probably weighed about 25 pounds - the screen was smaller than an 8 1/2 x 11 piece of paper. I lugged it everywhere I went - I think it cost about $4,500 - and I was able to recoup my cost by billing the hourly usage to clients.

Annie found a picture of me with a "walkman" on my head - quite different than an IPOD!
I remember the first time I used the Internet - I couldn't live without it today.
The first cell phone I had was the size of a regular home phone.
When I started work at PYG in 2002 - they were still using a dot matrix printer.
In 1975, the mortgage company I worked for had a computer - which filled an entire room and read information from little paper cards.

Yes Technology is a wonderful thing - it's hard to keep up - but it is worth the try - and yes I guess I need the workshop - because I am guilty of "Digital Attachment"!

Current Events

2010-05-17T15:26:00.001-07:00

Feel like I need to update the blog world with the recent "Woods in the Hood" current events.....

April 15th - Tax Deadline Day - oh and Preston and Katie got engaged - August 12th is the big day.
April 30 - May 1st - Trip to Rangely, Colorado - mark that off the list as a place we don't need to visit again.
May 7th - MKW graduated from SLCC with an Associates Degree in General Studies - cumulative GPA at SLCC was 3.77. Received her NJCAA Academic All-American Award at the SB game - actually she received two awards - one for a GPA of 3.6 and over and another for 3.8 and over.
May 15th - SLCC softball won the SWAC/Region 18 tournament and are off to St. George for Nationals.
May 16th - Parker was set apart as Deacon's Quorum President - he will do an awesome job!

Happy Birthday Preston!

2010-04-28T21:45:00.001-07:00

Preston James Wood was born April 29, 1988 at approximately 7:00 p.m. Today, 22 years later, he has become a wonderful young man.

He loves sports of all kinds - as a participant, spectator or coach. He honors his Priesthood. He loves his family and is a good example. He was once a "thumb sucker". He has beautiful blue eyes. He loved John Wayne movies when he was young. He is an Eagle Scout. He is a "good" eater. He has a contagious laugh. He is stubborn. He has a bit of a temper at times. He was a great missionary. We are blessed to have him as our son!

Happy Birthday Preston!

The Traveling Wood Family

2010-04-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was spent in Ephraim, Utah. We took a field trip to Spring City - a nice little town over the hill from Ephraim. You can't see it unless you drive to it. The story according to Evan is that when the saints settled in Manti/Ephraim, and were practicing polygamy, Spring City was settled as a place to hide their polygamist lifestyle from the "feds". Now it's an "artsy fartsy" little town.

This weekend we are off to the booming metropolis of Rangely, Colorado, which is about 50 miles east and south of Vernal. The Bruins will be taking on the Spartens of CNCC (Colorado Northwest Community College). It should be a sweep for the #1 Bruins who currenlty have a 48-3 record and CNCC is just the opposite at 4-35.

Next weekend, we will be in town!! The team hasn't played on their home field since March 26th. It will be a great weekend. On Friday, Meranda will be recognized as a NJCAA Academic All-American and it is the "Swing-for-Life" game. Saturday is Sophomore Day and the sophomores will be honored at the game. Oh - and Meranda will be getting her Associates Degree on Friday. The coach "strongly"encouraged them to walk - so there are 8 softball players that followed her advice.

The next weekend is the Region Tournament at SLCC and if they win it's off to St. George for Nationals the next weekend!!

It's been a while.....

2010-04-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

It's been a while for a post. I don't know if it's because we are busy or boring or something else.

This weekend we are off to our last "softball" trip to Las Vegas/Henderson! We have discovered places to stay that make you feel like you really aren't there. We have been there many times and have stayed in some pretty yucky places! We have been there in the heat of the summer and in the dead of the winter. This weekend it is supposed to be 80 degrees - can't wait. Last weekend we were in Twin Falls in freezing/windy/snowy weather - frostbite to heatstroke.

Life doesn't get much better!

Recent Travels

2010-02-28T17:28:00.000-08:00

So, we as a Wood family have been traveling lately. . .the pictures appear in reverse order!!!!!

Starting with the lovely St. Jorge!!!!!

Then the wounderful (V8 smelling) Yuma!!!!!

Along with the crazy "I haven't cut my hair since I was five!!!!" Hermit Man!!!

The Mexican Border

Lastly, the Beautiful Las Vegas Temple!!!!!

(Parker was really proud of this picture and wanted to share it with the whole wide world!!!!)

A quick trip to San Diego

2009-12-23T11:33:00.000-08:00

Preston, Eddie and Hans headed out for San Diego on Tuesday at around 9:00 a.m. hoping to arrive sometime Tuesday evening.

Well, that didn't happen - the car broke down just outside of Vegas - they were stranded. What to do? Well we called Melinda to get a hold of Cory - hoping that he was still at work. He wasn't but "bless his heart" he got a trailer and went to rescue them. About 3 hours later he had them in Las Vegas getting a rental car.

They headed for Barstow - arriving at about 1:00 a.m. MST - checked into a Super 8 - spent the night - got up early and made it to San Diego at around 10:30 a.m. Preston says the weather is great - they hope to do a little sight seeing before the game - and then they get to head back tomorrow about 6:00 a.m. to catch a flight in Vegas to SLC (the rental car couldn't be returned in Utah - and to rent another was about the same as catching a flight home).

Cory hauled the car to Overton - we get to go get it this weekend!

Are we all frustrated - YES - but no one was physically hurt - and that's the most important thing!

Hopefully the 'U' won't lose - that would really suck!!!

Christmas Card Dilemma.....

2009-12-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

My Christmas card tradition is to send a picture of my family. I do this because I send to friends and family who don't see my family on a regular basis. Unfortunately, my immediate family (who does see us on a regular basis) also receives the card - which I don't know if they like it or not - but oh well.

I have also been known from time to time to send a family update - a recap of the year - whatever you want to call it. I remember one of the first ones I sent was pretty detailed - others have been very brief - and I don't always send this part of the card to my immediate family becuase they pretty know what has been going on with us and I don't want to bore them or make them think we are really special.

So the dilemma is what to do this year.....do I send just the family photo.....include a long recap of the year....or just some of the highlights.......

Yesterday we received two contrasting cards. The first I opened was from a friend I went to the 'U' with. We had every accounting class together. I went to his wedding....he came to mine....we have seen each other at CPA functions....etc. So his card this year came with pictures of his kids....and a recap of their year. As Meranda was reading it out loud, it made us all laugh at how detailed it was....from talking about their daughter's excellent soccer and friendship bracelet making skills....to their son's hope to compete in Lacrosse his senior year without injury (torn ACL) or illness (mono)....and finally to their oldest son's battle with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and his spiritual awakening!!! It was entertaining but a little too much information.....

On the other hand, the other card was from Geniel.....cute card....cute picture of Emily....and the family update "2009 Family Highlights....I can't remember....."

I wonder.....both were entertaining.....which method will I choose???.

Kids are Great!

2009-12-03T08:15:00.000-08:00

Meranda is helping her cousin Annie by watching the Double T's (Elliott and Wyatt) while she is working.

Elliott is 2 going on 22 and on Tuesday asked, "Meranda, how was your weekend?"

He cracks us up!!!!

Yes - I am a Diet Coke Expert!!

2009-12-01T09:03:00.001-08:00

Every morning I stop at "Stephs's" Holiday station on 3200 West and 35th South for a Diet Coke. I guess you could say I'm a regular.

So this morning as I am filling up my 32 ounce cup, and I notice that the Diet Coke coming out does not look like Diet Coke. It is "light and foamy" - more like a REAL Coke. So I taste it and decide that this is NOT Diet Coke. I taste the real Coke and it tastes the same as the Diet Coke. BIG PROBLEM for me!!!

I ask Steph to check her tanks and sure enough there was Coke syrup hooked up to the Diet Coke dispenser. She changes it, but because it takes a while for the BAD Coke Syrup to filter out, I am stuck with choosing Diet Dr. Pepper this morning!

The good thing is that Steph paid for my drink this morning. The bad thing is that it was Diet Dr. Pepper!!!!

Editorial Comment

2009-11-30T07:40:00.000-08:00

I was going to write a "Letter to the Editor" but have decided to write a blog post instead.

So if you read my last post, one of my comments was "Max Hall bugs me". That is now an understatement - Max Hall REALLY bugs me!

What happened to "We won the game. It was hard fought, but we won and I'm really happy about that". But Max couldn't do that - it would be too easy. He personallly attacked thousands of people with connections to the University of Utah. He offended me, my husband, and about 20 other immediate family members. As my sister Jackie pointed out, it's nothing new - those attending the U have been looked down on forever because we went to the "evil" University of Utah. Apparently if you go to the school down south, you have a stronger testimony and you get a better education. NOT!!!!

The stupid comments didn't start with Max Hall and they won't end with him. I guarantee that someone will continue the "rich BYU tradition" of making comments that put down other people and try to make themselves out to be the more worthy/blessed/deserving, etc.

Oh and one other thing - what's up with the "Beer got thrown on me/my family" folklore/myth. How many times do we have to hear that? Beer is not sold in Rice Eccles stadium and for the few that "smuggle" it in - I guess if they want to waste it on BYU fans that's their choice, as we all have agency to choose! Likewise, many a Utah fan has had things thrown on them by BYU fans - like tuna fish sandwiches, tortillias or twinkie's...but I guess that's better than "beer" - WHATEVER!!!!!

There, now I feel a little bit better.......

Random stuff

2009-11-25T09:48:00.000-08:00

Yes - Donny won "Dancing" - I gave out a shout......

Parker and I went to McDonalds after the ortho on Tuesday, order totalled $4.94, drove up to the window to pay, handed the women my debit card and she said "From a five???" Must have been a long day!

Going to the WC (Wayne County) for Thanksgiving - cutting down Christmas tree - debating on whether to take the 4-wheeler - might be a bit too cold for that.....

Evan's birthday this weekend - a big one......

I hope the 'U' wins the football game.....Max Hall bugs me......

Meranda has the "Bruin Challenge" next week....she's the reigning bench press champ...she hopes to retain her title....

Preston has been home from the mish for 6 months...he has been out teaching with the missionaries this week and enjoyed it very much.....

Great Examples

2009-11-20T15:12:00.000-08:00

This week I've reflected on the "true grit" of my parents. Neither one of them have the best of health, but they try to make the best of it!

They want their independence. They would like to be more mobile. They don't really like asking for help and they do more than would be humanly possible for most people in their situation.

This week they made the trek to Summit/Cedar City to Grandpa Stapley's funeral. It was a long ride but they made it - thanks to Judy for tagging along. When I talked to them Tuesday night, they were giddy - they were out of the valley - they didn't have to make their beds or cook their food.

They were exhausted when they got home on Wednesday but it was a "different" exhausted. They are great examples to me.

I hope I can have that same determination/grit when I need to get through difficult times!!!!

We Saw the LIGHT!!!!!!

2009-11-18T14:03:00.000-08:00

Here is the Redneck version of Tuesday around midnight ---

"There we were, driving along I-15, minding our own business, when FLASH - we saw the blinding light!!! Holy cow - what was that? Had Tooele army depot just been blown up or was it a gigantic UFO?"

We were on our way home from Grandpa Stapley's viewing in Summit - we had just driven into the valley around midnight when the sky lit up like it was the middle of the day. Evan saw a red streak - and I had a little bit of a panic attack. Then we remembered about the meteor shower - it was so cool!!

DWTS - Donny style.....

2009-11-17T10:35:00.000-08:00

I spent alot of time in the 80's watching the Donny & Marie show on Friday night.....I loved everything about Donny - his good looks, his great voice, his patience with Marie and of course his purple socks.

I bet most every single "mormon girl" had dreams of marrying an Osmond - weird but true!
For my birthday one year, Evan bought me tickets to see him perform in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"- it was awesome!

Now I'm watching Donny on "Dancing with the Stars". He definitely has a following and is consistantly an audience favorite - probably because of those girls that are now "women" and are voting him on each and every week. Last night he danced to one of his hits "One Bad Apple" - I've been singing it to myself all day.......My kids think I'm weird....Oh well.....

The Challenge of Sunday School

2009-11-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

I have always struggled to go to Sunday School. I don't really know why. I've had some great teachers over time - Audrey Ikola (very serious) - Bobby Nicholson (not serious at all) - and my Dad - who still teaches Sunday School at 80 years old.

Maybe it's because I got out of the habit while serving in Primary or Young Womens - or maybe it's because I like going home for that Diet Coke break during the second hour.

In any event, I have tried really hard over the last few months to go to Sunday School class - which is a lot easier because of Ben Millet - a great teacher! He actually works for the Desert Star dinner theatre - he is very knowledgeable and entertaining. Some people in the ward don't like the entertainment factor - but I do!

He has helped me get back in the Sunday School habit!!!

Holy Cow - it's been a week.....

2009-11-13T13:31:00.000-08:00

So much for my joining the professional blog posters of the world - it's been harder than I ever thought it would. So I have failed.......but I have done more than last November.

So today is the big game for the Hunter Wolverines. They have battled and continue to win when they aren't supposed to. Preston says he is more nervous as a coach than he ever was as a player and he is loving every minute of it. He literally eats, drinks and sleeps Hunter Football. He loves the kids - says they are the best kids ever on a HHS football team - and he played on great teams. His record his three years at HHS was 30-6 - that is incredible.

This week the team will be without their starting running back - with a torn ACL - he wears #4 - the same number as Matt Asiata - is it something to do with the #4???? They will also be without one of the starting lineman - kicked out last week. And then there is the Quarterback - Brett Lunceford - who broke his leg in the Lone Peak game - played through it and plans on playing today.

This is a story that movies are made of.

How does "Remember the Wolverines" sound?!?!?!?!?

I Missed a Day...

2009-11-06T10:31:00.001-08:00

I thought it would be easy to post once a day - but it's harder than I thought it would be.

It seems that my life is pretty "consistent" from day to day - notice I did not use the word "boring".

Not much changes - which is not a bad thing. I have a great family, a good job, a nice home and good health. I do have my challenges like dieting and drinking too much Diet Coke. I basically have grey hair and I have to wear reading glasses to see anything up close.

There are a lot of things I should be doing on a more regular basis - like mopping my kitchen floor or vacuuming, but I would rather go to a ball game or shopping or a swim meet - or basically anything else than clean.

So even though my life is somewhat "consistent", it's a good consistency!

Was it a mistake - or a subliminal message....

2009-11-04T09:34:00.001-08:00

Sign on 4100 South and Redwood Road

"CRAPBOOKING"

We laughed all the way to the doctor's office......

Flu Shot Frenzy

2009-11-03T12:45:00.000-08:00

Have you joined the Flu Shot Frenzy? We have.....

Cindy and Meranda were the first to get "innoculated" at Walgreens. Parker couldn't get one there because he was under 13 years old, so he was put on the waiting list at his doctors office.
Next was Evan on Monday, November 2nd and today Parker is getting his.

Preston chose not to get one - hope he doesn't catch it.....

Excitement at the Swim Meet!!!

2009-11-02T13:55:00.000-08:00

So I'm taking the challenge - posting throughout the month of November -but I missed the first day - will try to do better.

Parker had a swim meet Friday/Saturday at the Skyline Seagulls pool....it's a crappy pool....slow water....no deck space....but we went anway....no sense going to practice every day and not swimming in the meets.

It did get a bit exciting when Parker decided to enter the pool when he wasn't supposed too.....Evan looked up....saw fear and terror and flailing arms....as Parker fell into Lane #6...together with his towel and flip flops. Luckily no one was swimming in that Lane!!!

A precious moment we will always remember!!!!!

Happy Grooming Appointment

2009-10-08T07:39:00.000-07:00

We were at G&G Huber's last night when Parker decided to check her calendar to see if Grandma had his birthday marked on it.

In his usual dramatic fashion - he let Grandma know that she didn't have his birthday marked. To which she replied, "Of course I do". Parker looked again - on his birthday - October 23rd - it was in fact marked with a sticker that said "Grooming Appointment".

Apparently not enough "Happy Birthday" stickers came with the calendar. Judy's on the 18th had "Dr. Appointment" and Johnny's on the 31st was marked "Vacation".

Grandma Huber is definitely a one of a kind - and we love her very much!

I wish I could make everything better......

2009-09-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

I have always been a working Mom. Not easy - but I have always tried to make the best of it, finding them a home and environment that would provide them love and care while I was away. Arranging for transportation to and from their different activities and always trying to have a "sit down" dinner at the end of the day so we could unwind all together.

When they were small, it was easy to get them up, feed them, dress them and wisk them off to the "sitter".

As they got older, not so easy...
They had feelings and opinions, and my choice of a care provider was not always their choice.

They wondered why I couldn't be home with them when they had a day off of school.

They wondered why they couldn't let friends in the house when I wasn't home

But somehow we made it through those crazy times.

So now they are older - not any easier being a Mom - I just don't have to find a day care provider. We still have that "sit down" dinner to try to unwind and talk about everyone's day!

But - It's hard to not make their decisions for them. It's hard not being able to be there for them when they need someone to protect them and stand up for them and make everything better.......but somehow we will make it!