From Darkness to Light . . .

The last week of 2008 will be remembered for our stunning Christmas Eve dinner, our relaxing and comfortable visits on Christmas Day, and our IN THE DARK Dec. 26/27.

Even though some throat issues are affecting both of us, it's been a good week, all in all. We enjoyed all of our company here for Christmas Eve dinner...though it was a bit hard to take without any of our own family here. Pierces were with the Pierce Ohana, so in some ways it was a smaller group here, but a friendly, congenial company seemed to enjoy the evening here with us. With so few children, adults were needed in the Nativity--even Ken and Lisa had starring roles.

Joining us for sandwiches on Christmas Day were the Pierce crew along with Nate and Christy Tilton and her brother, Jesse. At night, Ken, Lisa, and Sis. Taylor dropped by for a visit.

Friday was the "day we took the tree down"--re: Michael McLean--and by 12:30 we were normal once again. It is always hardest for me to take down the last area, the "in the meadow" with the snowmen and trees, and ornaments with my grandchildren's names. Mary's wallhanging made that so special, too, this year. The good thing is looking forward to NEXT Christmas with a new ornament for Miss Jensen, our anticipated granddaughter. Progress moves us on.

We thought Friday would be sort of normal, but we learned differently later. As the Cottle and Breinholt families from Utah left here [the Breinhold daughter was baptized at Alligator Pond] all of a sudden, THE LIGHTS WENT OUT! And they didn't come back on for 19+hours!!!!

We didn't realize what was happening island wide until a few hours later, thinking it was a "local thing" but it wasn't. We then got out our lanterns, candles, portable radio and played some hands of 2500 with the Rook cards. Bill drove to BYUH to check on students for a few hours, opening up the stake center so they could be in light if needed. Mostly international students only were still around. We heard the power would be back on in the morning, but they didn't mention that if you lived waaaaaaay out in the country that would more likely be mid afternoon.

We survived fine, and were grateful we didn't have to heat homes, provide milk for little ones, and just had to worry about us mostly. But having electricity is a blessing in our lives, and yes, we'd rather live with it than without it!

We're recovering from some throat/coughing issues, so it's good to just have days to spend at home, doing family history, reading [Bill finished his MAYFLOWER book today], and preparing my Sunday TFOT lesson.

We'll be in Honolulu Tuesday to Thursday, starting with a visit to Hickham Base for Nate's commissioning in the Air Force. Then we stay at Ala Moana Hotel to welcome in the new year with fireworks out on the barge in the ocean, away from smoke and noise from a Laie New Year's Eve here. It's then time to complete new syllabi for classes and get in the groove for 2009. I'm glad, SO glad, to have started this blog. I hope to expand my abilities with it in the year to come.

I count the many blessings of my life, gospel, husband, daughters and families, events such as graduations, births, blessings, several travel experiences, and the every day blessings of health, safety, a lovely home to keep organized and cared for, work which can be fulfilling, technology, and so forth. Just so grateful for ALL....so grateful for all of you. May the new year bring blessings the Lord sees we are worthy to receive. SCTTL--my lesson for the day--STAY CLOSE TO THE LORD.

N O V E M B E R & D E C E M B E R . . .

November Notes and December Doings

--It was so wonderful to have Erin and Avery with us for 15 days. Their extended stay came so that Wil wouldn't have to drive with them to Sydney twice, and it seemed to work well for all, even if it rained the first few days they were here in Hawaii.

Erin accomplished many things in a short time . . . Avery is now a dual citizen of Australia and also the United States. Wil has applied for his visa for their move to Pennsylvania. . . Erin has an updated drivers' license and new social security card. She took her GRE and passed--hooray! Mom had her annual wish fulfilled by playing our "Angels..." duet for RS enrichment night. We were able to shop for some basic life necessities and fun things for her family, plus she did her Christmas shopping at familiar malls. Special for all of us was having her and also John, Lindsey, and boys here for traditional Thanksgiving. Erin's yummy pumpkin roll was a hit. She and Avery enjoyed time with the cousins and L and J often, so it was good time for all. Kyle celebrated his 1st birthday, so we got in on his cake dig-in ordeal and celebration. Spaghetti Factory, Chilis, and 4 trips to Taco Bell and Jack in the Box for potato bacon cheese wedgies was also accomplished. Missed Jenny, Aaron, and Wil and Megan at Spaghetti Factory traditional Christmas meal, but we know J, A, and M [he-he JAM!!] will make their own fun Christmas in Pennsylvania.

During Thanksgiving time, Megan escaped to Logan to spend T'Day with the Petersons and Wil had a turkey sandwich since Aussies do not celebrate T'Day as we do. Megan is happy to be working two jobs now, one at Energy Solutions Arena, the other tutoring at West High near her LDSBC campus. It sounds like being a KHS grad is a help to her in dealing with some of the students she has in her stewardship. A quick visit with Lindsey's family was welcomed in early December. She now will be changing rooms in the dorm, moving 3 doors down with someone she has met this semester. We hope that goes well for her. Perhaps next fall she will be in an apartment. . . we'll see how it goes!! It sounds like she'd like to spend spring/summer in PA. . . but time will tell what is in store for her. With possibly a niece and a nephew there, she'd be a well-needed auntie for the summer season!!

Megan has now officially ended classes and has done well in her first semester at LDSBC, and is looking forward to her escape in a few days for PA. I think some skiing and other fun things are planned.

Jenny and Aaron moved into their home in Lock Haven. How nice to finally be on their own officially. It sounds like they are happy homeowners, but had to go through the usual initiation of challenges. It's great the rest of the Jensens are still close by so they have a support system if needed.

The semester has ended here, too, with classes done, and grades yet to send in by this Thursday, but can do. The local floods created havoc, though; we did have an opportunity to offer assistance with laundry and housing and meals for one family. This community is very nurturing, so many came to the aid of others. Laie is a good place if one is in need.

Graduation was a grand but somewhat soggy event...enjoyed very much President Eyring's talk about being a learner in all aspects of our lives adn that it's important to know how to work hard.

Travel time to Iowa was a welcome, wintry wonderland for us last week. We headed straight for the Hauschildts and experienced with them the "down home" variety of Christmas I have always wanted to spend. Dinner out, then home to their log cabin room for games, talking, snacks, caroling, fireside friendshipping, it was just. . . way, way grand. On to Shell Rock for visits with Grandma Lois Neal, Auntie Betty, and meetings for Bill. We got in a day of shopping, with no one at the malls, due to the seasonal "snow scare" and ice warnings. :D Good for us! Visited UNI one morning, and walked around our former campus. . . and yes, we'd both do it all over again, in spite of the changes, and cold weather. It brought back warm memories. . . and those will stay forever. We did some of our favorite places and new places for eating out -- Olive Garden, Panera, Gravy's Diner, and MAIDRITES. YUM!! Mallard Pointe is a grand place for retirement. We think Lois is really in a good place and wish her happiness there for a long time. The meals there were great, too.

We even surprised my mom in Des Moines on Wednesday, taking her and cousin Mary Ann out to a favorite restaurant, Latin King. Again, ice was in the forecast, but we did okay and no one fell down. That was fun, to see how she got excited that we'd come all that way for a quick time to visit.

Our trip back to Laie from the airport on Thursday seemed a bit different...so much water was on the side of the roads...and then we learned some friends had 2 feet of water in their faculty homes in Laie! Shocking! It is still threatening for part of the week ahead, but we hope to manage well, Lord willing. It's time for sun here.

More traveling . . . Lindsey, John and the boys had a winter getaway to Utah then California while we were in Iowa. They got to see Megan in Utah and play in the snow. Disneyland is also one of their favorite places, so it will be good to hear about their adventures when they return this week.

I've been commemorating this eventful week in my life thinking hard on my experiences from exactly 9 years ago. It was a surprise then, too--A Christmas Around the World surprise for Lindsey's performance, then home to some, uh, tests and biopsies. What seems like a dream now was very real then. Those days brought me to this: I'm so thankful for each day, and especially each cancer-free day.

These holiday times are very different from most with floods and after effects seen throughout the island, and with my four little girls now grown up and most on their own. . . but we have so much to personally be grateful for. We'll be celebrating in some usual ways. . . Christmas Eve, Honolulu stake concert on our 34th anniversary. Of course, the music is either on or playing on the harp or piano. Today I got out the Min-prepared CD of Megan's Christmas programs...and loved, of course, hearing my favorite trumpet player of all time in the solos and trumpet sections and whole band. What special memories those bring back for me. Yup, I'm tearing as I write, [oops, a little more flooding!] but it just means Megan, you're right here. I'm so happy for you to be in such a good place, and to be able to celebrate with your sisters. Hmm! That's you calling now on the phone . . . you must have known I was thinking of you. :D

Life is good, and the Lord is so good to each of us. May we continue to know Him and recognize His hand in all our doings. ly mom

Newsy November for the Neals

It is time for a brief catch up of our lives this new month. It's a time to gather together -- at least in thought--and recount our many blessings again.

November includes the last of the soccer season for Trevor, weekly visits with the 3 boys, Thanksgiving , visits from Erin and Avery, basketball season begins, Megan starts a new job, Jenny gets ready for home ownership, BYUH concerts, plays, Hon. Symphony, and at-home Christmas music and other gifting and prep.

It seems very different to be at home alone, just dad and mom. It is very true that we are keeping busier in some ways compared to our lives last year. Dad's new responsibilities for Napua Baker's job plus his former responsibilities mean he is serving for about 10-11 hours at work each day. With children here, that wouldn't have been very doable. The Lord knows what we can handle. . . and when.

We decided the other night this year has turned into his "first mission." He does need/spend more time on BYUH projects. I help by not nagging about his early to work/later arrivals home. It is easier to do this with just the two of us, and I'm thankful he was around as much as he was while the girls were growing. I also assist with typing or proofreading a bit for him here at home. We've had some nicer dinners here, later ones, usually, and fortunately, he doesn't mind if I get on a "South Beach" kick for a week or so here and there. We're still committed to looking good in the decade approaching quickly!!!

My one thought on this "mission" is that I hope he can enjoy the moment. With so much stacked on top of each other, the activities can seem more like checking off a to-do list instead of parts of a journey to be enjoyed. . . I hope he can get enough time to feel "re-created" at some of the events we're able to participate in/attend. . .

Our nights try to be relaxing, or at least, together, unless it is a church night for dad. SIFE, other invitations out, BYUH plays/musical productions are mostly shared. Last night was a special one. It was the unveiling of a restored copy of the first publication of the BOM in Hawaiian. Megan's former seminary teacher, Dean Ellis, had it restored; his grandfather had donated it to BYUH long ago since it was a departing gift when he left here in 1920 on his mission here...but it was in the vault for 30 years at BYUH, then the last 16 months it was taken out of the archives and redone [because of the efforts of Bro. Ellis' family] and now is on display at the Visitor's Center, a rightful place.
We were able to see it and hear about the history of Bro. Ellis' grandfather who served a mission or two here. It was very interesting and I felt it was a great opportunity and privilege for us.

After, we watched the BB team get a good start on the season with an "ice cream night" because of their high and victorious score over 100. It was Lisa's "coach's wife" kind of game :D We hadn't seen much of the Wagners lately, so it was great to reconnect awhile with Lisa and watch the game, too.

Soccer ends today for Trevor. We'll spend time at their house to be with the boys awhile due to a funeral. Being with them always brings us smiles and memories in those chances we get to do that. Although our visits may seem spaced, at least we're "not in their face" all of the time and hopefully, we're a welcome instead of dreaded [ugh, not you again!] sight!! Lindsey and John have their hands full, and we are very proud of them for their investments of time and selves into their kids.

For a diversion, I'm looking forward to the Brahms at the Symphony tonight, too, with some shopping and eating out included in the adventure in town. An oboe soloist is on the program...I've enjoyed that instrument more and more in recent years. . .

I reread and realize that this posting is not that much of a headliner, but it's nice to be up early and be able to update my life for a bit. We'll attend the temple this a.m. also, and a few more times until it closes in late December for what will seem like a LONG time.

Classes march on, and the semester ends in just 4 weeks, then one final day to meet with students. I'm grateful for the opportunity to still teach, though I'm weary of some of the study and attendance habits of my students. [Yes, these are moments I probably need to enjoy more.] Perhaps my days are counted in this. . . at least the HEC class. I hope I last until Megan is out of school!! It's nice to have a chance to help out with her expenses while I can and as I did for the others. It's gratifying to see you've all had a chance to be away from home and to have independent time to prepare each of you to thrive. . .

But that brings me back to the beginning, in a way. With everyone seemingly involved in their own "moments" it is a great feeling as a parent to know how thriving everyone appears in their own worlds. We all have so much to be grateful for. The times can be trying as we look beyond our lives, but some things are firm and unshakable. Our faith, our beliefs, family, make it a calmer environment within in a world of change and uncertainty.

Let us all press on!!!!

TAGGED --by Erin

As of October 25, 2008
Just 2 more months until Christmas!!!

8 FAVORITE TV SHOWS
1. Designed to Sell
2. House Hunters
3. Sell This House [the home staging show]
4. Rick Steve's Europe Through the Back Door
5. Thank [Goodness], You're Here [AUS]
6. Curb Appeal
7. Gilmore Girls
8. Great Race

8 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
1. Cheesecake Factory [Sweet tamale cakes appetizer]
2. Tanaka's of Tokyo or Benihana-style Japanese Restaurant
3. Phuket Thai
4. Long John Silver's/A&W in Mililani
5. Olive Garden
6. PFChang's
7. 23 Degrees North [Turtle Bay] or Ola's or Leilei's, too
8. Most any . . . not cooking is just my VERY favorite!!!

8 Things that happened yesterday
1. coughed . . . lots
2. dr. appointment
3. got medication [Foodland Pharmacy!!] for bronchitis
4. sent mailings to 3 girls, bought stamps
5. met my student at FHC
6. helped a patron at FHC
7. came home and rested
8. picked up and enjoyed time with Dad at home


8 Things I'm looking forward to
1. going to Pier One today..."Pumpkin Swirl" spray and candles
2. voting--giving my voice, even if I write in candidates!
3. being healthy again
4. giving my RS lesson tomorrow: Daughter of God
5. preparing for my next travel...not sure where/when yet
6. Halloween--seeing the boys dressed up
7. Preparing for the "Erin and Avery" visit
8. Any time with dad, like today.

8 Things on my wish list
1. new, nice kitchen counters and sink
2. finished bedroom [painted walls, window coverings, rugs, etc.]
3. gutters for house before rainy season...maybe
4. travel
5. travel
6. travel
7. good health
8. good wishes for each family member

I'll add one other list:
8 Things I'm grateful for
1. beautiful family and time with them
2. upbringing with solid values passed on to me, through me
3. The Lord's blessings in every aspect of our lives/Gospel
4. Dad's wonderful opportunities through the years
5. Beautiful places we've lived since 1974
6. Learning and loving it
7. Loyal friends through the years
8. best husband in the world for me

best wishes always to you. ALOHA! mom/Dianna

An October to Remember

It has been a memorable October already, and it is just 9 days old!

Last Wednesday evening [1 Oct] Bill and I and others from Laie left on the red eye non-stop flight to SLC. Both of us had been there within the past 4 weeks, but this time we got to travel together. It was a last minute idea to go and to accompany him with the companion certificate. Friend Grant Guinn booked us a room at the downtown Hilton, in an upgraded room, too. So I can say right now, it was truly worthwhile to make that decision to go this weekend.

We arrived at 7:30 a.m., Thursday morning, and even after picking up our luggage and rental car Bill was dropped off at his meeting held at LDS Business College by 8:15 p.m.

Since the hotel early check in was not even available until 12:00, I had to make a plan of how to spend the morning. Hmmm....knowing Megan was probably still asleep, --and we were planning to surprise her--I headed out to the Granger area to Kohl's, a department store where I enjoy shopping whenever I'm on the mainland. Yes, they had some bargains waiting just for me, so this happy shopper decided to head back to downtown and park and do some other errands in that area. I had just gotten to the car and got a phone call--from Megan. She knew some BYUH folks/friends were going to be on her campus today, but didn't know where to find them. In that call I recommended she peek in the Multipurpose Room and she would find them...including her dad! Then I told her I was here, too, and she was surprised again! We made plans to meet after her music class test.

The day progressed well, with walking in the gorgeous weather to JS Building, eating lunch at Olive Garden, taking Megan with me to Walmart, resting up, then meeting dad to eat again at Olive Garden, then finishing the day with TV, rest, and sleep since it was at a premium on the flight to SLC. Our fun time had begun!!

We attended a morning session at the SLC temple then strolled through the temple grounds to cross to JB's to have some breakfast. I spent some time then at the FH Library, learning about the Nichols family name and first ancestors to arrive in this country. Always a favorite place to research and pass time. Megan had a full schedule that day. But she and friends came later to swim at the hotel's pool. Bill and I escaped after his morning meetings to Emigration Canyon, up 8th South, past UU. We enjoyed the colors, winding canyon road, and river to experience a bonafide leaf ride. AHHHH........so nice. Photos need to be added to this to get the full effect. Picture gold, a bit of green, some dark pines, a splash of red, purple, and of course, orange. The day was....perfect.
Friend Janice Morgan joined us for dinner at Benihana's...so the full courses of delicious food made the day, too. We visited with Janice for a bit in our room until all of us were yawning. Jet lag and packed days...but such good times in spite of that!

SAturday was Conference Day #1. Megan had passed out all the tickets and she and friends enjoyed in person while we watched from our room. Early breakfast in the hotel worked just fine for us and there we visited with Grant and son, Ashton. We left after the 2 p.m. session for Ogden. We'd called the Litchfords to warn them of our coming. Bill and Dan attended the meeting at 6 while Nancy and I got another bonus leaf ride up Weber then down Ogden Canyon. :D Kristi Palkki and Matt had prepared a fine salmon dinner for us so we enjoyed that prior to the meetings and rides. Kristi has a huge home for her and her 5 kids...with 3 nieces and nephews on hand at times.

Sunday was our day to pack up and go, though we were happy to watch Day #2 of conference in the morning after our breakfast. We met Megan at her place around 12:30, then ate at Arby's with her before dropping her off and heading to the airport. Our flight was delayed, but it worked out all right. We walked right off the plane in LA onto the next one to Honolulu. Better seats this time, so we had a pleasant flight home.

Just what I needed.....a fun weekend, time to reflect and be refreshed by conference, friends, family, husband, nature, and spirit. In a word, if this is one, AHHHHHHHHH!!!!

September. . .New Seasons. . .SLC/Schooling . . . Serendipity . . .Settling In

School time has arrived. Megan is now settling in nicely, it seems, in SLC at LDSBC, right in downtown Salt Lake. We spent 2 days getting what she couldn't pack and bring and didn't get lost even though I was driving in new areas of the town. I love the layout of this city; the N-S-E-W designations work for me. What a great location for Megan to attend school-- the weather has been great, and when we call we hear she is busy and doesn't have time to talk!! We think that is a good sign, but hope to have her share her first week experiences with us in more detail soon. Mom and Dad remember how exciting it was to be away from home at last, so we empathize with her new life "on her own." That makes our life's season transition to "empty nesting" much easier.

SLC is a favorite place for me. I love the shopping, and now with Janice Morgan there, it allows me to spend extra time to enjoy, too. Janice is our great friend who we hometaught for 7+ years in Hawaii and was also a part of our FHE combined families' group once a month. After 2 days of getting Megan settled, Janice had me turn in the rental car and we attended a Greek Festival right downtown, near where I'd been staying. Yummy gyros, salata, and baklava--a good crowd and lively music and dancing entertained us that afternoon. Stops at other malls--there seem to be TONS of them so close by--then home to enjoy our light supper at her house. Finding Halloween treats that are hard to come by was just one of the "serendipity"moments I enjoyed. Walking barefoot through the grass in her yard was another, too. SOOOO soft! One of her yellow roses blossomed overnight to a gorgeous flower... we visited Temple Square to appreciate the pink roses and other garden delights... got PAF working again on her computer...and found a great message to remember: Grant me the patience to deal with my blessings. Eating a peach or two...reminiscent of Brigham City Peach Days in olden times for us from Logan days. Enjoyed peach pie, too, that Janice made. I even had some alone time to play the piano!!! Ahhh...all of this made for a relaxing break in my usual school-busy life.


Friends and acquaintances just popped up out of nowhere! While moving Megan into the dorm [it's the PLAZA HOTEL property at West Temple/South Temple] we saw and greeted Laura Ditto, our former bishop's wife, and Autumn Keys from Laie [Megan's bandmate from KHS a few years ago] who is also a student now at LDSBC, and her mom, Judy [a family history buff who also volunteers at the LFHC] and visited with Jack and Marsha Peterson who came to see us from Logan on Friday evening. Actually, Marsha was picking up her new car, but we worked into the plan anyway!! We always have fun visits, even if it's just a brief time at dinner. Marsha and I laugh lots when we have these rare chances these days to meet. That was a treat...especially enjoying their company, plus Matt P. and Betsy, too. Cheesecake Factory, always one of my favorites, was our dinner setting...and yes, my favorite --sweet corn tamale cakes-- and regular cheese cake with cherry topping for dessert pleased my palate tremendously.

MORE good stuff: That, plus the visit to Olive Garden for Megan and me Thursday, AND successful shopping at my favorite store just a few blocks from Megan's dorm, meant a packed yet productive time in those 4 days in the mountain-view city--now like an urban ghost town in the downtown area as CityCreek is developed. Although I didn't venture beyond SLC, it was great to connect with this crew of friends. I'll be enjoying having Megan in SLC for as long as she is thriving there! Many people to see and other things to do next time...but this was all so relaxing AND enjoyable for me. Since Megan didn't come home with me on the companion reservation, I had TWO seats to myself. But, as always when I travel, it was great to get home.

We now enter a new season of our life...as Mary would say, each new season is a beginning. We enjoyed a bit more freedom and in some ways, less worry, this week. School demands and Bill's work, plus "student conference week" for me filled my days. Fun moments were the positive finds for students in FH, celebrating Trevor's Super Citizenship at Laie Elem., and enjoying "Sunset on the Beach" here at Kakela. Visited with Ken and Lisa there...Lisa said she is jealous that we can be at this stage of our lives...we remember when they used to come and visit us next door sometimes at the townhouses, staying up late [they had no kids then], sometimes until almost 1 a.m. on a school night for us! Yeserday we enjoyed our visit to the temple, yardwork and closet cleaning, then off to Honolulu for a movie and dinner. Hmmmm...are we supposed to like this so much??? :D

I guess what helps is knowing we've tried to do the best we could in raising these girls. We tried to provide a steady, conservative, predicatable-in-many-ways, gospel approach and routine to life with values they could count on as young people and now as adults. Much help along the way, and good examples in friends and family, helped these things stick. Life is not perfect for them, for us, but we are confident that with prayer and other divine assistance, their lives and ours can be very worthwhile and successful.

Here's to 28.5 years of parenting in the home [roots]!! Here's to happiness for them all as they remember their roots...and take wings and fly!!

Tagged!

This looked like fun!!

1 rule: use one word that comes to mind to answer the question...but if you have to use a few, it's okay!!!
1. Where is your cell phone? drawer
2. Your significant other? forever
3. Your hair? natural
4. Your mother?thoughtful
5. Your father? reunited
6. Your favorite thing?napping lanai
7. Your dream last night? unremembered
8. Your favorite drink? A&W
9. Your dream/goal? celestialized-family
10. The room you're in? computer
11. Friends? been close a long time
12. Your fear? driving
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? mission (or travel)
14. Where were you last night? home after class
15. What you're not? discontent
16. Muffins? no thanks
17. One of your wish list items? bedroom redo
18. Where you grew up? Iowa
20. What are you wearing? 'jamas
21. Your TV? off
22. Your pets? allergies
23. Your computer? Dell
24. Your life? daily gratitude
25. Your mood? unpredicatable family loves this! --not!!
26. Missing someone? Family (grateful for blogs, chats, Skype)
27. Your car? Camry
28. Something you're not wearing? Shoes (Hawaii!)
29. Favorite Store? Christopher and Banks --tomorrow :D
30. Your summer? Traveling
31. Like someone? Bill (and love)
32. Your favorite color? any
33. Last time you laughed? yesterday [Running-boy Avery]
34. Last time you cried? Goodbyes (saying goodbye to family)

Sorry, one word is just NOT me!!!

AUGUST RUSH

How quickly the days rush by! School has now started at BYUH and my classes are nearly filled. That's good! I have a good group in HEC so far, and will meet the REL students on Tuesday, 2 SEP. Preparing for the folders and their contents, especially the syllabus, always takes me a long time. Keep trying to get more efficient and effective in the teaching/learning experiences.

It was a great travel experience to Australia late July to mid August. SYDNEY is a wonderful harbor city, so scenic and easy to get around by walking, even though it was winter time. We stayed in "The Rocks" which is the historical area, first settled locality. Loved the history, architecture, landforms, and stories. The British feel was evident, in sight and in language. Loved it. Toured the city on the hop on-hop off, then walked places on foot. Also toured the opera house and treated ourselves to a musical--Billy Elliot with music by Elton John. Very impressive.

Canberra was lovely, a real city similar in some ways to a cross between Des Moines and Washington, D. C. Although always the coldspot on the weather map while we were there, we got out a little here and there with the help of Erin and Wil. The week we waited for baby may have gone slow for her, but at least she felt good to visit and we made many fleece quilts and finished the baby comforter, too. Wil had some vacation days, and some work days and football days, too. We enjoyed a lovely shower put on by Moana Howe and others in the ward. Met the family there and at church, too. Stake conference weekend --it was a great conference with such good talks..."to the rescue" was the theme.

Getting used to winter in July/August was new, but other things seemed "old hat." Cooking, some cleaning, laundry, and eventually baby holding plus visiting W and E, and enjoying getting to know Avery William Takarawa Howe [sp?] ---great ways to spend our time. Bill left earlier than I did, so I got to get to know him a little more and be at home with the new little Howe family. Such a nice time. Fun ways to experience a new country. Some wonderful "firsts" in my life and good people and events to remember. The Olympics in Beijing started while I was there...we hear Liesl Jones got a gold medal--Erin is smiling--and when we got home Shawn Johnson, the gymnast from West Des Moines, also racked up a set of medals, including one gold. Hooray for her and the others. Summer Olympics highlights are mostly gymnasts for me.

Packing days are Megan's life right now, and seeing friends before she takes off on Wednesday, 3 SEP. Band friends, girl friends, nephews and sister are among her visits this week. Some beach time, too, and using her new camera. She has really trimmed down and thrown things out--mom and dad are impressed. She can enjoy the "less is more" philosophy, we have hopes, anyway.

Other family news has Jenny starting to show :D and Lindsey counting down until John returns from Molokai FOR GOOD. We enjoy visiting with Jenny and so wish them well. We know they are ready to launch their lives and we are glad Jenny is a graduate student. It's amazing how lives can change. Years ago this would have been a far off wish for Jenny, since we knew how little she liked academics at KHS, so we are tickled for her and happy for her success. She and Aaron are a great team and we know the world is waiting for them.

The three boys/grandsons here are still precious to us, so seeing them is a joy. We look forward to Thursdays. That's still piano day for Papa and Trevor, but Devin comes, too, so he and I can hang out...mostly outside. Then it's dinner time, then a little extra time to play, then we take them home to mom. This seems to give her a little time to herself since Kyle is sleeping then...after Trevor's soccer practice.

Grandma Neal moved to Cedar Falls today. Grandma Reynolds will turn 83 next week. Each day holds something new for each of us at any age. I hope Grandma N. likes her new surroundings and busier lifestyle with the activities held at Mallard Pointe.

Dad is busy and needs to catch up his blog!! His school responsibilities take up the most time, and getting time to set up his class with Paul Freebairn has finally gotten done, too. We are both happy about a 3-day weekend. Monday is our annual picnic/beach day for new and old BYUH'ers down here. Then it's class days, then Megan and I are off to Utah!

It's good to keep up on the blogs. I enjoy everyone else's so much. Hang in there, everyone.
I love you. mom

Mid-summer Madness and Update

The days have have zoomed by and I should catch this up before we depart on Saturday, July 26.
The many projects I wrote about earlier are behind me now, thank heavens. Hooray!! It's now major packing mode at our house, and preparing the home to be away for two++ weeks. An exciting time.

PAINTING of the lanai, the railing upstairs, the mailbox, and some stucco dark spots on columns and our entry has gone well the past two weekends. It's a fresher look and will be good to come home to also. I'm sure some might say, "a second grader could do that better" [Dianna's sections, not Bill's] but there weren't any second graders around to ask!!!! Give me a cleaning brush, not a paintbrush, anyday.

SEWING projects were completed, and that's always a challenge here as the nearest fabric store is 45 minutes away. The better ones are an hour away. After 3 trips, I had everything I needed. Erin's baby will have a comforter...we'll tie it with yarn when we get there.

ORGANIZING for classes...that will happen a little more on the trip/flights. I'm glad the draft for each class is nearly complete. Just some fine tuning left on those. We have a few shared projects to work on while flying and visiting. Always something for us to keep busy. Maybe we'll even get to read a book or two while we're away...unless baby is there already, of course.

HOME ORGANIZATION isn't that bad at the moment...except for the four suitcases setting out that need to be readjusted and filled. We're taking lots for baby, etc., but should be able to return with much lighter bags. Having company earlier in the month and having spring and summer semesters off has been a big help to me in this department. "Keep up" is so much easier than "Catch up. " It will be nice to have Betty and friends here to keep Megan company and enjoy the house. We surely hope the weather is cooperative for them, too.

SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE . . . That's the sign at SUBWAY. It seems to be needing even more time for updating their soggy computer system, and some say it could be several months before reopening. It is sad for Megan especially since this was the job she actually enjoyed...the people, working for a short time with customers, and pleasant surroundings and employer, responsibility given. Her trip away to Puget Sound with Jenny and Aaron to vacation last week gave her a welcome summer retreat. Sounds like a good place for us to get away sometime. Not sure if anyone around here wants to hire a "sandwich artist" for just 6 weeks. The job thing just didn't work well this summer, but might be a good springboard for work she might find on or near campus in SLC. We'll see. . . I have a feeling these remaining weeks will even be encouraging her more to get away since they may be passing slowly.

FUN TIMES and SERENDIPITY We'd planned to see MAMMA MIA when it came out , to see if we wanted to see the play in May when it comes to Honolulu. After our Saturday morning painting party we went to Mililani to see it and have some popcorn, of course. It was fun, for sure, and we loved the music. I'm sure you've heard that not all critics like it. But we did enjoy the music, country side views...I heard it was set in Greece, but filmed in Croatia--I'll have to check that out further.

With Megan in Washington with Jenny and Aaron, we got a taste of what it may be like when the "empty nest" comes for us in September. It seems like just yesterday we had 3 then 4 young children and would have to plan any Monday night [or other] getaways in the van--treats, activities, who'd sit where, which radio channel we'd settle for, if we got drinks, who'd share with whom, etc. just to go for ice cream or a beach walk on the north shore. What a contrast--Monday night following our after-work catnaps, the two of us made a quick decision, headed to Kaneohe for Bill's haircut and were home 2 hours later. That was a new experience. We even read a book out loud along the way until dark. So that's what life without kids in the car may be like. He reminded me we did this for 5 years before Lindsey was born. But do you know what? I CAN'T REMEMBER THAT FAR BACK to those days. So this empty nesting will all be new to me.

In August postings I hope to share new experiences from down under and impressions of life for Erin, Wil, and new little baby Howe. Back to the packing!!!

Helaman 3:35 . . .wax stronger and stronger . . . firmer and firmer. . .

Summer Projects--July is already here!

Birthday was indeed fun and memorable. Summer is officially here and I L O V E the break.

Projects and having company have filled my time. The leisurely pace is indeed welcome, though, compared to my fall/winter semesters and no time to do these things which take me chunks of days at a time. My not teaching spring has been like icing on my cake! I've cherished these weeks to travel [May] and just catch up and accomplish many of these items on my long and ever-expanding "to do" list.

Mini-gardening is underway, and now with an upstairs lanai that has furniture, I'm interested in some small container gardening up there, too. I've enjoyed harvesting so far the radish sprouts and celery leaves, and green onions, and leafy lettuce.

My projects started with the "spring cleaning" for the house, room by room. Ta-Dah! Done!! But--it's now time to start over with the garage again. Dianna's 4th Law prevails: The less I own the less I have to clean, maintain, store, and repair. Love to throw things out! It's liberating!!! And I love the space that results from the effort. AHHHHH ! ! !

Preparing for fall classes is also in progress and, actually, is almost always in my mind in some way. The home ec class is updated and outlined, and now I'm working on the family history class. That one does include some bigger changes due to new websites students will need to learn that came available since last semester. I've been teaching the new sites to others, so have a better idea how to do it for class.

I'd wanted to do this project since last fall. I started a notebook of important documents based upon data received at a workshop last fall. I've edited and input the 40+ page file, so now I've printed it out and I'm filling in the blanks. That effort also meant it was time to redo the old "emergency file" which needed to be weeded out....Loved discarding then shredding the no-longer-needed documents and obsolete statements. I still have some document prep to finish up, but I'm glad to be this far.

In the meantime, Bill went to soggy Iowa for a week to visit family and we had company here for 10 days, so had to stay well stocked with groceries here at Dianna's "bed and breakfast buffet" and do a thorough tidying/laundry fest to prepare for them. First, Jenna Wagner stayed with us as her parents were away and she was recovering from a tonsillectomy, then a couple from Spanish Fork and the wife's mother stayed here since the Bigbies needed lodging for family to attend Fred's funeral. Megan roomed with me over in the corner on the futons, behind the oriental screens, so she at least had a little privacy. They were really pleasant people to have around and didn't need to be entertained so I'm glad we had a way to help them out.

Next project to start: baby comforter. On the trips to and from town recently, fabric and batting and yarn for Baby Howe's comforter were purchased. I'll assemble and bind it here, but we'll mostly tie it once we get to Australia--though I'll have Lindsey and Megan and Dad tie a few knots also so that it has a "made by the family" touch. It's a star pattern, chosen because Erin has always liked stars.

Any more projects this summer? ? ? Well, definitely painting our back exterior lanai railing and pillars is due. Selecting the paint chip possibilities will happen now that Bill is back. We have some prep work to do, then some priming, then the top coat.

Ongoing projects: volunteering, teaching. My Wednesday evenings and Friday afternoons are spent volunteering at the FamilyHistory Center and I enjoy having my regular customers and new patrons to teach this to. It was fun to get back in my own history about 5 generations and then to connect to distant cousins who are interested in this also. Some great finds...and it just makes me want to travel more to visit where these family members once lived. I'm in the Kentucky/W.VA/Virginia lines on the Nichols/Nickell line, early 1800's/late 1700's right now. I also help Bill out with his history searches sometimes. A hobby and interest we share.

Planning/Preparing for travel is always a top pursuit. Spent June arranging Megan's travels to SLC in September...I'll accompany her then. While Bill was away I nailed down our Sydney arrangements adn transportation to Canberra. We don't love driving on the other side of the road, so we'll do some small planes and buses for that trek each way. The inspiration for Bill's Iowa trip was a flash, middle-of-the-night project when his work window opened up some days for him to go.

So, that is summer so far for me.......plus visits with delightful grandchildren, enjoying the beach and sand, and daily walks in beautiful Laie...like I said above, I LOVE it and the leisurely pace is so welcome. The countdown to our Sydney departure is on...two weeks and 4 days to go! We're getting our winter clothes out...and luckily, we get to check 2 pieces of luggage each!!! That is rare these days in air travel.

New grandchild/new adventure...that will be a highlight to our late summer, for sure.

Time is a gift, and so is good health, safety, freedom, employment, and many other wonderful, wonderful appreciated blessings.

BIRTHDAY #58-A Beautiful Day!

A beautiful, balmy, nearly-perfect-in-every-way day!! The weather was so lovely. Just like I'd choose from a catalog, if that were possible. We walked on campus, got birthday powdered sugar donuts and opened cards, read scriptures, then got ready for the day. Dad was at work by 7--another busy week for him. Laundry was on the agenda, but also some planting -- radishes and flowers for out front in the assorted pots there. For a fun new thing, I made two strawberry pies. I had fun sampling the berries and filling as I was preparing. Pretty yummy! Did a little housework, and did banking when I took Megan to work.

My 38th birthday (with 20 years' experience)

Superlative sunset at Sunset

My current school/home project is preparing a WORD document of "important documents" and I made good progress on that. It will be something I can send to my students who are interested and they can copy the pages that apply to them, also edit if they need to. I'll fill out ours upon completion and keep it with the "important" things to grab in an emergency.

Hearing from loved ones was always welcome -- first Jenny, then Erin, then mom and Mary. Mail was nice, too. Cards from Diane Linn Young, Mary [a musical one], my mom, 3 brothers, and the Petersons.

After picking up dad, we got ready for our Subway Sunset Picnic--an almost annual event now. It was wonderful with the welcome clouds to add variety. A low ridge of them blocked the final descent, but it was a lovely scene until then. Darkness came quickly, the color show at post sunset will have to wait for another time...the sun and clouds had other plans, I guess.

One candle to represent all those years...in the strawberry pie, and it was yummy! I'll post a photo at a later time. Dad's little concert ended my evening of a very nice birthday. Grateful for all that occurred, and for all who are in my life. Here's to another year!!!!!

Mom's Milestones. . .

It's now June 2008, officially today. The week was enjoyable with the holiday at the beginning [See Lindsey's blog] and moved on to Megan's KHS graduation Thursday [see Lindsey's dropshots]. I kept giving dad high 5's at the graduation and mentioning how wonderful this was, but thought I ought to explain why that was such an awesome thing for me to see Megan graduate.

May 2000. . . Eight years ago seems so far away now, but the memories will always stand out in significance for me. Perhaps they are fuzzy for you, but never for me. I had just finished chemo treatments and the final recovery weeks, finally feeling like I could get back up on my feet----and STAY up!!!!! I had been approached to teach family history in the fall at BYUH, a surprising new professional opportunity for me. Megan had returned from the 4th grade Big Island trip earlier which I didn't get to chaperone, but I'd felt good enough to chaperone her end-of-the-year picnic with the 4th grade down at Clissold's Beach and beyond. It was probably around then, but it occurred to me that even though I knew I had to take this recovery thing one day at a time, how blessed I'd be for each family occasion I'd be able to witness. I didn't know then what the future had in store for my health, so each event held great meaning for me. My goal was to make it through the remaining high school graduations--first Jenny, then Erin, and finally, 5 years after that, for Megan's And so now, as of May 29, 2008, I'VE MADE IT!!!!! These are tears of J O Y.

BUT I'm just so thankful to have witnessed so much more than that in these 8 years...accompanying 2 daughters off to school in Utah following their h.s. graduations, 3 daughters graduating with their bachelor's degrees, 3 daughters' temple marriages and acquiring, at last, "my own sons," births [so far] of 3 handsome and well-loved, unique grandsons, travel to Denver, Boston,Plymouth, Providence, RI, Connecticut [where we watched the Nauvoo temple dedicated], Sharon, VT, Indiana, Illinois/Chicago, Iowa, Ohio, Pennsylvania, NYC and Wicked with PJ, Nauvoo, Europe, Christmas in Utah and California and its theme parks, and Europe and dream-of-a-lifetime Croatia, Northern Rockies in Canada, Palmyra, etc., another trip down to PA, Acquiring land and completing our renovated, beautiful home on the most beautiful spot imaginable here with John's mark in every nail, board, or brick along the way. If my family knows me well, they remember that I'm a realist, so I'd never even ventured to hope this far ahead back in 2000 that ALL of these would occur--and so much more I'm not mentioning, but nevertheless, appreciating. Dad, that's why there were all of the high 5's and "we did it"s !!! I feel so very, very blessed. And I thank the Lord for these abundant, dream-come-true blessings and events I've been privileged to witness in all of your lives.

W O W ! ! ! Thank you all for being there, and for being the sources of Parent Pride Moments you each are for me. I'm thankful, still thankful, for each day, and every day is a "birth" day for me and will always be.

That's all for now.

Love, mom

TAGGED

Been married? 400 months! That is, 33 1/3 years on April 21st.
Ages? Dad is 59, mom is57
Eats more? Probably mom. Dad is at work, mom is too near the kitchen sometimes.
Said "I love you" first? Dad, I think.
Dad is taller [5'11" vs. 5' 6"] and sings better, too. He's basically well trained musically by comparison, but we both enjoy music together and that includes many styles, from blue grass to classical.
I think we're smart but in different ways and subjects. People, university leadership & organization = dad; history, geography = mom. We "complement" each other in this and other areas. There is still so much to learn!!
TV remote? Mom in the day [HGTV and MASH], Dad mostly at night. Usually like the same types of shows...mom doesn't like magic shows, though.
Temper? Dad never gets verbally upset, so has to be mom. I make up for him. Girls would agree, I think.
Laundry? Mostly mom, but dad will do it if she's away.
Dishes? Dual duty...and that is much appreciated.
Right side of bed? Mom--it's by the alarm clock, and I sleep lighter than dad.
Cooking? 99.9% is mom for both baking and cooking--except for waffles. Often heard these days is "Let's eat out." With just the two of us, we can share entrees and save.
Stubborn? It's a draw. We both have lived long enough to like things our own way.
Admit wrong first? I won't go there.
Seeing whose parents most? We both visit our own about once a year. AS we've gotten older, we spend less time with the in-laws. Without grandchildren to take and visit, it has simplified our lives some to do it separately.
Friends? Dad has more associates from work adn teaching. Mom's friends are few and treasured. [She's really picky and many perceive her as "quiet" and harder to get to know. Those who are close in enough know the real person.]
Siblings? We each had 3, though dad's brother Robert Ray Neal was deceased before Bill was born. Mom has brothers, Dad has sisters living.
Wears the pants? We both do. Mom runs the finances and gets taxes done [jointly decide on investments, though], household interior upkeep & garage, and washes/maintains the car, runs most kid-errands and grocery shopping/cooking/cleaning/laundry; Dad works to provide the primary income, helps determine most social/business engagements, takes care of yardwork, outdoor window washing, and floor care/carpets and some minor house repairs. We've been at this a long time and have done things this way for many, many years. It works for us.
I don't know who else to tag!! :D

May is My Favorite Month!

May 16th--a birthday celebrating day for Mary Hauschildt, my niece Julie, and Lisa's mom. This month/day usually has much going on, especially since it's a Friday, too. Trevor's first May Day Festival was held. His Bright Beginnings preschool danced two numbers. I hadn't seen a May Day in YEARS, so that was special to attend this one in the BYUH Cannon Center. Lindsey has already posted the videos online. She is the Blogger Queen!! Other events for me today were teaching a family history workshop for IAAP on campus. It was well received, with about 22 or so attending. A quick trip home to change, and back to the FHC for my Friday shift until 4 p.m. The day isn't done yet!!

Just one more quick trip home to change into walking clothes for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life at Laie Elementary. Lindsey and Kyle joined me for my first celebratory round [dedicated to survivors and caregivers]. How special it was to have this representation of my life these past eight and a half years--a married daughter [I have 4 grown daughters, 3 now married] and a grandchild [I have 3.7]. To me, being a survivor means having a "birthday" every day! I cherish any day I live without cancer even though cancerphobia will always remain with me. Too hard to get over that, but I'm grateful for all in my careful, compassionate medical team who keep me keeping on. Tonight I walked 10 rounds, as I'd hoped to do--one for each of the 8.5 years I've lived since I was diagnosed, and 1.5 to grow on. Nice people to visit with were there, and it had always been a wish of mine to participate in one. It's nice do what I need to do to make my wishes come true and it was great to share it with my loved ones.

More birthday news...My baby Megan celebrated her 18th birthday in some unusual ways on Wednesday, May 14. We started with a "b and b style" breakfast...loved those beautiful, ripe strawberries and fun things on fancy dishes. We've moved past donuts, I guess?? since that was being served in seminary that day anyway. A Subway was requested for lunch, so I took that to her at lunch time on the short day. There was a new "Guitar Hero" cd added to her collection from Christen so those two enjoyed some time here playing that while I ran some errands. Fun until time to go to the KHS awards night at Hale Kuai. Megan received an English class award. Her teacher was there to present her with a journal; mom gave the lei for the combined birthday and award. A box luau was Megan's dinner at the PCC where the event took place. I helped her eat the lomi lomi salmon.

May was memorable for Mother's Day and travel, too, and temple time--with more celebrating in Pennsylvania for Jenny and Aaron's special graduation and luau. We really loved the time with them in Lock Haven. Even though we were 5000 miles from Hawaii, a yellow carnation lei was made for me to wear on M. Day and precious emails were shared! Many sweet memories and moments were spent with the Jensen Ohana East. Lock Haven is a special place, for sure. The Palmyra days, temple time, road trip to Fabius and back, with some unplanned adventures --like smelling lilacs and seeing gorgeous tulips--made this a great time away from the usual. Megan was in good hands here with Aaron and Erin Nelson.

Visiting my mom and seeing cousins and Mary and Gaylord started the month off well. It's a shopping haven in DM, so now baby Howe will be dressed for the season when we get that far in July. Visiting with people, special ladies, from my growing up years was a treat, too. Mom is looking and acting really good--such a great thing to witness compared to her recovering last time I visited.

And then there are the mIlestones...Life doesn't usually have this much variety in it for me. This May, special as it is, is indeed unique. So many "one last time" events will be passed...seminary has already ended, graduation for seminary is coming this Sunday [Megan speaks], then the last day of class, then graduation, then our life involved with Kahuku will end after 16 years. And I smile, because in the fall, Trevor begins kindergarten. One Christmas letter of ours said something like A family is a circle...it never ends...we truly we are! And THAT is what is JOY.

Beautiful Day!

This is the kind of day you wish for if you've moved away from Hawaii. The sky is blue, the breezes are slight yet cooling, and you just want to be OUTSIDE! Devin and I enjoyed some planting time outside in front and then played a variation of croquet/chase tag out back. Fun! OF course I had to blow some bubbles, so spring has officially sprung here. I hope Papa and I can spend some time outside watching Trevor practice baseball tonight in this glorious paradise.

Finals are completed and I turn in grades tomorrow. Now I can make my home dust-free, tidier, and ready for those who will be here with Megan, minding the homestead, while we are on the mainland soon attending Jenny and Aaron's graduation. The kitchen is my first frontier...usually tough for rookies, but I'm ready for that now.

Preparedness seems to be a strong undercurrent here with the costs of gas and groceries/transportation for goods rising almost daily. Gas is now $3.75 at Chevron. A few weeks ago I bought our preparedness 10 by 10--that is, ten weeks of ten different canned food items to use, so 3 months. We've been trying to increase the savings account also to include a liquid stash of 3 months billings and expenses. That's taking longer to do. Even stamps will rise in cost next month. I bought some of the "forever" stamps at the current price so they can still be used when the new ones take place.--an idea for you all. Meg needs to send her grad invitations before the price jumps. She now has one Sunday to do that before I leave and since her orchestra concert is over and no more town trips will be needed. She's creating a label for those as she isn't happy with her handwriting.

Concert was wonderful! I'm not sure if I'll ever have the chance to watch Megan play again--it will depend on the participation and availability of an instrument for Mr. Taniguchi's Friday night ensemble adn if she ever picks this back up later in life. You can guess I was teary about that. 16 wonderful years of supporting my girls in band--I'll never forget "Crazy Clock" and some other very special moments in cafeterias, the gym, BYUH, and away from Laie. I'll be ever thankful to people like Mike Payton, Daryl Agena, Ernest Taniguchi, Gavin Min. They helped along the way. Those are moments you all made us so parent-proud.
Music-- a lifetime love, and passion for some. I'm grateful for it and what it brings to our lives and home.

Earth Day: Erin and Lindsey discussed going green--or greener. I finally bought the green fabric bags at Foodland and they give a nickel for each one used. In addition, they have a coupon stamp--get some freebie after the tenth use. Last week I took 5 stuffed plastic bags of bags to Safeway's recycle bin. Now we'll have fewer to deal with--just need to get into the habit of taking it in with me to the store. Planting these veggies, using them, and expanding our little container garden is a goal in mind. Once the lanai upstairs is ready for some plants, I think it will be the food fillers that will round out the space. I hope the Bush stimulus money can go to our needy lanai!!

And thus it is this Wednesday, April 23, 2008. I love you all.

Quote: Don't allow yourself to sell yourself short or to hold yourself back. You have amazing qualities that are yet to be developed. Be the one who says "I will" when someone asks for a volunteer. It's usually a risk worth taking.

April, May, and June

April, May, and June--They will be here soon--with all those things that they will bring--sun and flowers, rain and showers--with the sun so bright, the days will be just right--in April, May, and June. This ditty was created by me and a good friend, Theresa Vanek, when I was in 4th grade. We even had to sing it in front of the class, can you imagine shy me singing in front of 40 kids and my teacher!! Yes, I can still remember the tune after ALL these years! It HAS been rainy lately, and I'm looking forward to some sunnier weather. I could call Theresa my "first best friend" so that song has always remained special. She moved to Nebraska that summer and we were pen-pals for the next 10 years. She asked me to be her maid of honor then, but that didn't work out for me as I was on my "poor college student" budget. Since I was responsible for spending money [it would have meant travel by bus to Omaha] I didn't get to do that. Life and choices. Imagine how we could have kept in touch with each other if we'd had cell phones or internet back then. I guess I'm appreciating technology today, and appreciating that I can be in contact with each of you. Whoever would have thought this would be second nature, so very possible?

I must have had a thing for April. When I was a freshman at UNI I wrote a poem called, "Hello, Rainy April." It was about the many days of rain we'd had and my feelings about roaming the umbrella'd campus...I don't recall the lines to that one, though. Probably best!! In Iowa it was okay to carry umbrellas...Megan let me know that is NOT done here. You can get laughed at for being sensible like that. I'll still see she has one when she goes to SLC. Another place, so perhaps, a time for looking at doing things differently is not doing things badly.

The days march on...Classes keep me very occupied, and this coming week the end is in sight. With classes ending, I'm putting away/filing/organizing/throwing out materials from the academic year. I've enjoyed learning myself this semester. It keeps me fresh to have new things to explore and add into the classes. This time it is the new.familysearch.org program
for religion class. So many good features, and I'm now able to help my students with it and others who come to the Family History Center of Fridays. I means I'll need to edit the syllabus and materials for fall, but it is a good experience and prevents that class from being stale.

Learning is a hobby of mine--HEC 220 is fresh each semester in some ways because students choose their mini-lesson topics from a list. I then cover the "missed" topics, so I have to redesign what I teach each term. This again is a good thing and helps keep me fresh in the area, too.

This coming week will be unusual with dad away in San Diego and with Lindsey's family going to Maui, and with Erin and Jenny and their hubbies in their half-a-world-away from each other locations. "WE'RE HOME ALONE" will be the motto for the week. We'll miss you all--AND our boys visiting and playing with us, but glad they and Linds can keep John company on Maui.

Fransis Simram was/is here for a few days--he's like our son, calls us Mom and Dad--and he's now 44!! He has 6 kids, 5 boys, one girl. Oldest is NEAL SIMRAM--a good name! He was in Kona for a conference then took some personal days to come and stay with us/see friends and relatives, and attend temple times. Back to Pohnpei for him by Monday, I think. It's great to catch up.

Our Saturday was special--needed a town run. We're really combining errands now that gas is 3.55 a gallon here. We started the day at the temple for a session, then home to take Megan to her car wash for band, then back to the temple for the sealing of Daniel Skaf and Jacquelyn's baby girl to them. Had the car washed, then off to Honolulu for some lettuce wraps at PF Changs and then to Costco to get a new router for the wireless internet. Haircut for dad at Windward, then home for the Grandparents' naps!! That was our exciting day.

I'm ready for some travel! I'm starting to think about my trip now. Dad and I will travel mostly separately until PA, but I'm glad we will get to have that week together to celebrate Jenny and Aaron. It's always stimulating to me to plan a place to go. Would have enjoyed San Diego--I keep reminding dad I've not spent any time there except in 1987 at Sea World when we went with Petersons [SHELL gas station], so it's my turn!! We'll keep that one on hold for awhile. To Iowa, PA, and NY via Chicago and Denver and LA is coming up. Glad we're on United for those trips! It's been an interesting few weeks for the airlines industry--Aloha, ATA, Airbus, and now American. Glad "U" for United is at the end of the alphabet, as if that has anything to do with the matter!

Checking out for now. I've rambled long enough! Thinking of you and missing you. Please be in touch.

Quote for the day: Action plus knowledge = improvement.

New Days...updates for you

Aloha, Family--It has been a balmy and beautiful week here in Hawaii. It's the kind of weather everyone who's been experiencing winter for so long would be sooooo grateful to enjoy. But, even though it is home to us, Hawaii STILL is beautiful any season and we appreciate where we are every day.

This past weekend we enjoyed watching the many NCAA games. Even though I don't follow them through the year, except the NCAA II Seasiders, it is fun to watch these top college teams at home, here, relaxing together. Walter Roese's team [USD] was beaten, but it's great that his team got to advance to second round and it's just his first year there as assistant coach. Easter Sunday Megan was ill, but Dad joined me at church--a nice change as he usually is on campus for church services in assorted wards. The bunny lay a single trail down the stairs for Megan to follow one more time...then she found her eggs hidden in many places the other girls will remember...under the piano was one, of course. Remember where our bunny liked to hide his eggs?

Our Easter/birthday ham dinner bash was Monday. Both Lindsey and Dad blew out the candles on the Texas cake...with little guy helpers, of course. We'll have to have someone who was present with camera in hand to post one of those photos. It was a pleasure to have my "Hawaii Family" all present for that; Megan needed an additional day off from work to recover still, so she joined us, too. Now she's all better, and nearly has completed her independent study English class that she'd scheduled in for the break. She now has some time away from that and is enjoying Youth Conference with her friends today, Friday, and Saturday. Orchestra practice is Sunday, so it's nice that YC ends Saturday.

MY spring break comes soon...classes are going well and soon it will be finals time! Today was fun for me to make additional travel plans for the PA/Graduation trip in May. That always is fun for me! I used some RCI points that we'd accumulated to get Dad from Chicago to and from Scranton. Even linked him up with my flight back to Chicago...he'll arrive a little earlier in Scranton on May 5, which is good, so he can get the car and check into the hotel. I arrive later at night. We used RCI for the rental car, too.
Now we can make some arrangements in Palmyra area and we're nearly set for our adventure. We're calling this our celebration of "400th Month-aversary" since that will take place April 21. Married for one third of a century!! Whoever thought it'd last this long? [we did.]

I can truly vouch for GEICO and their good service. The adjuster came yesterday to trade the van title for a pay-off check. It's better than just having it die from need of being junked due to major maintenance, I guess. It does still seem strange without the van...even Devin thinks so still...but we're adapting. Think of all the gas we'll not have to use now??? And lower ins. premiums, and maintenance/registration/safety inspection, etc. Simplicity has been our style...now we're simple again in this department, like we were for so many years before Mazda truck, and Neon, and Camry.

My Friday will be the usual "Friday Tidy" time, then GG at 11, then off to the FHC for an afternoon to assist and learn more about the new fh online program. I think Dad is ready for a break this weekend...he's been living and breathing "WASC ACCREDITATION" for the past several months, and the team leaves tomorrow after their report. WHEW!! Dad is due for a break from that...and then comes SIFE!! Employee dinner for BYUH is next week, too. Always something in his hands...but as you all know, that's how he likes it!! At least we all know him. Please know it meant a lot to him to hear from you all today. Did I ever think I'd be married to a 59-year-old man!! But he's so young in spirit in many ways, so young at heart is what matters.

Closing this now, but letting you each know I miss you and hope to visit with each of you soon. Keep on blogging! Love this way to catch you all up at once and vice versa. Happy Weekend, everyone!

Nana-Van Go is now Nana Van Gone!!

BYE-BYE VAN BROKEN! It was hard to watch the ol' green van hauled away this morning from our driveway with twelve years of memories along with it. . .beach times, Spaghetti Factory and Honolulu Xmas lights, many, many airport runs, drivers' tests and first licenses, visiting company caravans, band practices, mom and dad's morning jogs/Meg's seminary drop offs, Daddy-drop offs at BYUH, years of orthodontist visits, and so on. Many happy family times with you all. Yup, it was like seeing a family member taken away. . . our scrapbook on wheels :D It had been towed here yesterday after the collision [see Lindsey's blog for photo] and after placing a protective tarp on it for the night the insurance towing came promptly this morning to get it to be inspected. Will it be able to be resurrected? No, this van will be laid to rest/sold to auction. It would take $6400 to repair it. [And that doesn't count the other deterioration it had been showing...leaking, rusting, hard water lines on the roof, middle seats that wouldn't go down, no A/C, etc. ] Of course it is good to know we got our money's worth out of this over the course of the years, and mom always LOVED to drive a car that's paid for.
Now we will move on. For our family, an era has passed. How fitting it is when Megan is graduating...interesting, huh?

THE LAST RIDE in Nana-van was precious, and it will remain in my mind a long time. The last ride Megan and I had in it we had such a happy time laughing our hearts out as we drove to KHS band practice accompanied by Trevor and Devin in the middle child restraint seats of the van. First, Devin and Trevor played the carrying-on verbal battle game "No it isn't" / "Yes it is" and they'd reverse their own phrase at no notice. We thought that was cute. Then Trevor claims, "I like my middle brother, he's so fun." We asked if he liked his little brother, Kyle, too and of course he said yes. He was quick to add, though, that there would be just ONE more kid to love, ". . .and then my mom's DONE!" We about lost it, it was SOOO funny, especially the way he emphatically said "done." :D :D :D :D

The hardest part for me was having the little ones with me for that trauma. How I wish I could have spared them that. Whoever would guess the open gate wouldn't be secured. I had no idea what I'd hit. It appeared to be open when I came through at first and I was pleased both were open [but soon learned the one was not secured] and not the usual one-lane traffic for a non-school day as sometimes occurs. But it happened, and we can't go back, only forward. I'm grateful the boys weren't injured physically [so far?], and that I'd dropped Megan off from that passenger position just 30 seconds earlier. The bits of glass that did come in would have been aimed right at her. Fortunately little ones are resilient, but can learn and grow from their experiences. I do feel the Lord's hand in everyday events...this was no exception.

I'm also grateful my speed was minimal, maybe 10 mph. ?? as I was approaching the stop light. what IF I'd been going even a bit faster ?? well. . . I'm also grateful we weren't ON the highway, and quite off of it, in a relatively uncongested place. No other cars or pedestrians were involved. We were in a heavier vehicle. There were no fuels exploding/igniting. And Kahuku is now very knowledgeable that its entry gate IS sturdy. Not a dent on it. Wow.

Even though traumatic, I'm glad the boys could see the police officers in a helpful role, assisting in the report taking and phone calling for towing. More drama for the boys to imitate. Many helpful KHS employess, admin. and staff, and parents of students came by, offering assitance if needed. I was more fine than I could have been, I guess. [My typical shift into numb and non-emoting] It, like other situations, is doable. And I'm so grateful to all for their offers to help. Daily prayer is a boon, and helps so much in ways we don't even know. Now at night when I check in, I'll be adding, "Thanks for the prayers I didn't even know You answered and the protection and looking after I didn't even notice."

MEMORIES IN THE VAN: Does anyone remember a special time in the van that I left out? I'd love to have you comment on those. I've philosophized enough in this...no thoughts for the day this time.




First, I'm glad Megan wasn't in the car since the passenger side front was the severely damaged part from the unsecured security gate that was in our path and that Devin and Trevor have shown no physical damage.

Nana again! Quick Catch-up

It's time to catch up on life here, and reading Bill's blog is close to reading about mine in some ways. Sometimes our lives actually coincide, other times we are parallel, and sometimes it feels like we are both busy in several directions...but I hope we both are moving forward, hopefully, in the same direction together.

Delightful news from Erin tonight. I know how happy she and Wil must be knowing they are in a 'blue' mode for planning for baby. She is experienced for having a boy. I'm experienced as a Nana-boys, too!! I had needed those 4 little girls in my life after only brothers to grow up with. I loved the world of pink...no wonder Lindsey isn't a pink person--she had to live with that the longest!! But her boys are "the bomb" in blue, like at stake conference, and bring us tremendous joy. Loved holding Devin on my lap at stake conference. He rested for nearly an hour and a half...then woke with my pearls imprinted on his cheek--he is very loving and likes to accompany Nana on trips to the store and other little errands when I tend him. Wednesday morning is usually "Devin Day." Trevor liked having his back scratched after Devin found his way to Daddy-John's lap.
These boys are so reverent in church. They have been taught well by their parents, with discipline, and love. It shows. "Trevor Time" is usually Thursday afternoons, before piano lessons, when we can play and enjoy for awhile until Papa comes home for piano lessons. He would rather skip Nana's errands, though, and be at the house and play! Such nice events and visits bring joy to our weekly routines. "Kyle's ___" --I'll need a name for time with him! Any suggestions out there?? Stopping by to watch him and Devin as Lindsey picked up Trevor from preschool was a "bonus" Nana activity last week. He's so gurgly, smiley, and talkative now. What a delight! I like this age...interactive, and doesn't move too far or grab too much! A golden age of babyhood for me. Now we'll have to see our new little one in July/August. It will be GRAND to have another GRANDson--Baby Boy Howe!

KHS: Concern of the Week It has been an interesting experience to finish up our children's 23 years of public schooling this year. Starting with band and going beyond, I can't say there has been much of anything to be proud of when it comes to Megan's schooling at all this past while, except for a great English teacher and class that has motivated her this year. Ms. R/W has shown me how much Megan would have really liked to connect with KHS, with positive teachers that can be a good influence upon her. The latest concern is how some recent poor decisions on someone's part have really offended many in the LDS culture here and affected students in grades 9 - 12 for life!! It's been disappointing and utterly shocking to learn some things that were condoned/took place last week. All I know is that we have about 45 more days before our association with public schooling in Hawaii ends. It won't come too soon. I expect to do a victory dance of my own the night of Megan's graduation. Education--a good education, balanced education, quality education, respectable education--which we value so highly, has been harder to come by...and that is on my mind quite often. Sadly, gratefully, once upon a time that was not so. KHS was much different back then. It would be hard for me now to sell this place to non-islanders thinking about moving here. I must move on from negativity, though, and think forward, grateful we can all move on. We learn from these less desirable experiences in life, too.
I hope and pray Megan can overcome and move on, as well.

A new week!

Mrs. Organization strikes again! What a wonderful feeling now to have a garage that is more orderly and manageable. The addition of THE shoe rack necessitated a modification there. The whole space now looks so nice. My spring organization/clean now moves inside onmy next break to the kitchen. We need to have someone look at the non-functioning ice maker, so a good time to spruce up all over in there--appliances, cupboards, etc. I enjoy caring for my home! I'm grateful for these beautiful surroundings and conveniences that enhance my/our days.

It's Easter Bunny time, too!! Another fun thing on my Monday/prep day/home day was decorating in a simple way the garden window. I'd found the Easter container in the garage--THAT's where it was! We're now ready for Easter...and little boys who like to come and hide Easter eggs. Lady Bunny and her basket of eggs are near the window by the front door, ready and waiting for them to "practice"!! A quick trip to town with dad tomorrow for a meeting will allow me to find a few more "yard things" for the boys now that the weather has gotten SOOOOO pleasant.

It's great to read about spring where you all are, er, fall for Erin? Or is it called spring anyway? I need a clarification on that. Pondering vacation time ahead these next two weeks for Megan--work and soph. English to do. . . student teaching assignments for Jen, work and baby preps for Erin, and school concerns for Trevor. Perhaps you all remember that mom made it a point to be sure you were all ready for kdgn...and that our summers we always held some sort of "homeschool" and supplemental, organized daily activities. Supplementing what the schools did was a part of my parent mission since I was concerned way back then with education in Hawaii. It is now needed today, too, no matter where one lives.

Thought for today: Janice and others: Happiness is a choice. The 90- 10 principle applies: We choose 90% of what happens to us, 10% of what happens to us we don't get to choose, but we do get to choose our attitude. Yes, I need to remember that, too!! L2U all.

Thoughts on Sunday

It's late Sunday afternoon. . .daylight savings time is now blessing the lives of our wintry mainland friends and family. You get to see snow one more hour each day! Lucky you.

Happily I can report a pleasant drive to and from Niu Valley in eastern Hono. for orchestra for Megan today. Maneuvering around motorcycles was the most challenge today. Finding a shady place to park for two-and-a-half hours is the other challenge, but I did find some shade and had time to edit my students' personal history segments and even take a brief nap. Love those Sunday ZZZzzzz's. I was up at 4:30...got to sleep in :D

NEWS and views of the neighborhood. . .the neighborhood is changing and has been in transition since December. The duplex in front was sold to a woman in Hawaii Kai. She rents to two families and there have been many changes to the property since she took possession. The multiple pourings of concrete now dominate the yard both front and back. [Hmmm...the Tongan fellow in 003A pours concrete for a living. Coincidence???] The entire front yard for those two units is now a "driveway." The003B garage was redone in front to become what is probably a family room. An entry door in front and two new ones in back were inserted. The laundry is now outside on part of the back "lanai." It could be interesting in heavy rain with no grass/ground to absorb the water anymore. Will we flood? We'll see.... A doggie whom I call "Chewy" is a frequent visitor now, too, so we find we need to park our shoes in the garage. .. Megan's new slipper disappeared, and my good brown shoe disappeared until I found it at Helena's. Our running shoes were on the driveway, so I was glad to retrieve those. Then there's the, uh, "presents" the unleashed dog leaves in our small yards...hmmm. We haven't met the owner yet, but would like to!!! Our quiet restful surroundings are feeling a little more, uh, populated now. But fortunately, our back view outside provides a welcome sight. We're looking forward to selecting some lanai furniture for upstairs...if Pres. Bush's $$stimulus package in May comes through. . . .Costco has had some interesting groupings to consider.

WELCOME Spring!! It's coming!! For fun and to welcome spring, this week I bought a few plants...some flowering red begonias, and a few taller, healthier plants to place in the outside blue planters. Also bought a green onion plant since I use Helena's so much. It's in a blue planter also...we no longer have the shoe rack there [see above paragraph] so the teak chair is on the diagonal with the onions to the side. If I can keep these 5 plants blooming and green, I'll feel like a real farmer. The hibiscus shrubs are kept as "low-biscus," so we haven't had many blooms. Helena's papaya trees and the avocado tree and her other plantings and herbs are doing well. We enjoy being "neighborly" and look after each other. It's nice to have someone next door who likes to neighbor!!

UPDATES for the week: Dad has updated all on our M - Saturday. We enjoy Ola's at TB for its view and interesting menu. Dad had the greatest salmon there! It was even a close runner-up to the "airplane food" Devin and Trevor handed out yesterday. :D [they had no peanuts, though.] They're such fun guys. Kyle is a joy to watch, too...one of my favorite ages is 3 - 6 months. The personality starts coming through for all to enjoy. Megan's select band DVD arrived yesterday, so we got to see her play. It is amazing what young people can do. What an opportunity she had/is having by sharing/developing her talents. You've all been blessed with musical talents and I hope your blessing brings you joy.

Enjoy the beginning of a wonderful week. Sending love and thoughts and prayers many times a day to each of you.

Thought for the day: from KHPR: A great nation deserves great music.