Grandma Nellie's Scrapbook

Annabella getaway

2012-01-21T17:04:00.013-07:00

Grandpa and I spent a lovely few days with the Lee kids while their parents were
away celebrating their anniversary.
Everyone loves to read at this home and they love books early as you can see Becca
loving this book from all directions.

Max is into dinosaurs and was devouring this book and another like it.

Brianna talked Grandma into reading her this VERY LONG Barbie story.

Trav was busy with his studies.

Recess ! - Grandpa declared himself Principal of their school and was very keen
on recess and lunch time.

Travis was good to help Becca ride the purple dinosaur.

Max was going to surprise Alyssa as she came down the slide.

Hannah and Alyssa being silly.

This is the new kitchen clean up crew in training. They have a great kitchen training program at this home. Grandpa and Grandma were only invited to the kitchen to eat. Hannah cooked dinner the first night, Alyssa was our breakfast specialist
and Travis cooked our lunch and dinner the next day. Pretty amazing crew!

Grandma declared Friday as Photo Day! We tried re-enacting Jon's puppy photo but
it doesn't work with children. Here is our best effort of all the girls.

Then all the boys !

My personal favorite - (I took it myself) of Travis and his Grandpa Lee

Becca shouts for joy as her parents return home.

shoot quick

2011-10-23T22:15:00.005-06:00

We've been here, there and everywhere the last few weeks. Some weeks we can say that we've seen all of our Utah grandchildren.
Just after Christmas we got together for a few days of peace and quiet and good food in Annabella.
Catching 19 grandkids and getting them to pose for a photo is a major challenge - but this time they were all very co-operative
This isn't all pretty and proper like Sarah's kids when they pose or all cute and lined up nicely like Jon's puppies pose - but these are 19 of our grandchildren and they make me smile.

Getting the four Cherry children to pose is quite a feat too. Here's our best effort from our visit at Thanksgiving.
Add these 4 to the other 19 and you have all of the current Lee Family grandchildren. THEY ARE THE GREATEST!

Peaceful, Heavenly, Wet and Fun

2011-09-30T16:05:00.015-06:00

You've all been there at least once so you know that a weekend camping at Capitol Reef is something to look forward to and to enjoy.
We were the first campers to arrive so Roland and I set up our tent while the deer grazed? on the fallen pears nearby.
Most people campout by sleeping in tents - but not Jon - he made cozy beds for the kids in the van and set himself a bed outside.
Everyone did a great job with their meal assignments and we had plenty to eat at all times.
The kids loved the zipline, the irrigation ditch, the rocks, the horses, and the pinata.
And I think we all loved the hike to the waterfall. Some were timid about getting wet at first but not for long. I enjoyed seeing the cousins playing together.

Gardens

2011-09-09T12:37:00.011-06:00

Early this year we planted in our cute little grow boxes and we were so pleased with our harvest. We had yellow squash, zuccinni, swiss chard and our favorite was the potatoes. Our cucumbers didn't do well and our tomatoes had beautiful plants and not much fruit. Still we were happy with our efforts.
The Eves' planted later in the year and as always have a great garden with quality green beans, peppers and tomatoes, which we are always excited to partake of.

On Labor Day weekend we were at Clear Creek visiting and Jon was cooking up some squash. He hollered to Brianna to run to the garden and get him a few green peppers and some other kind of peppers. I went along to be her helper. Wow! Holy smoke! The garden was huge and there were vegetables ready to pick in every direction. Tomatoes, peppers, all kinds of peppers, corn, and potatoes. But this was only Garden #1 - we hadn't even noticed the other garden.
Jon says "don't come to my garden with out a grocery bag" so I hurried off to find a bag to fill. Jon is showing Jennie a watermelon. The garden had cantaloupe, yellow squash, banana squash, acorn squash and miles of pumpkins.
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Max and Ellie are showing me where to find the cherry tomatoes
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Josh found a pumpkin just the size he is
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Max found a giant pumpkin. Wow! what a pumpkin patch!

Some extra fun activities we enjoyed that weekend - Max and Ellie at the cabin swing - Jason and Josh rowing on the pond

Don't be discouraged all you garden growers - Jon always likes to do things in a BIG way!

Row, row your boat

2011-09-06T17:34:00.003-06:00

It is the desire of all our family members, young and old, to get to row in the boats at Uncle Jon's. All except me! Roland talked me into a romantic moment on the pond and I, wanting to be with him, fell for it. The day was beautiful, the company great but the boat was too wiggly for me. Little Josh, Jason and Jennie were there to witness my most ungraceful moment trying to get out of the boat.

We had a great weekend - We all celebrated Hannah's birthday with a yummy cabin breakfast and some delicious banana cake with cream cheese frosting. I believe Emma was invited to accompany Hannah and Uncle Jon on their birthday luncheon in town. Lucky girls!
In the meantime Ellie, Max and Josh came to the cabin with Jennie, Jason, Grandpa and Grandma and we spent a lovely afternoon enjoying a rainy day at the cabin.

Hopefully all our other family members had an enjoyable holiday - wherever they went.

A piece of happiness

2011-07-23T18:06:00.002-06:00

Today we had big plans to celebrate our anniversary #40. I told
Roland that when we got married I had no conception of living long enough to be alive or married for 40 years. But time flies when you are having fun and fun we have had.
Today I have been a real party pooper with a fever - couldn't even work up enough get up and go to go out to dinner - Dad is fixing me "Fe Fie Fo Fum" for dinner.
He served it very formally in suit and tie by candlelight.

At noon today we did have a piece of happiness as we went for a ride up Hwy 18,
turned off at Snow Canyon and drove on through. It was beautiful as always and plenty warm. We found a shady spot by the sand wash and Dad talked me into getting out and sitting in the shade. A breeze was blowing and it was cool and lovely.
Watched a little squirrel, two dragonflies and a bird. It was a little piece of heaven and I guess that will be the way we celebrated our 40th anniversary.

Who Knew?

2011-07-22T07:10:00.005-06:00

Perhaps some of you will recall the golden colored box cars that were always up at the top of Dad's closet or stored away in his box of special things. Sometimes he'd get them out and just look at them - sometimes he'd let us use them to decorate our house but mostly they were up in the closet.

Well times have changed at the Lee home. Thanks to a train shop in Tehachapi and good old ebay we now have the whole train.

All you young mom's that are experiencing motorcyles, bikes, boats, and all kinds of boy toys. Been there, done that. Now we are moving on to trains.
I know Dad's alltime biggest wish is to have a Sportsmobile or a camper on the back of his truck but that will just have to stay on the list. But trains, I think we can afford the trains.

Jodi, Kyle and family were here last Saturday when the package arrived. Grandpa invited the boys to help him unwrap all the train parts. So with Kade and Kyle laying track, Zach on the switch, Sam jumping all over and Grandpa supervising here is a movie of the fun times we had that afternoon.

Who knew a few trains could make everyone so happy?

We know the way!

2011-06-11T09:19:00.004-06:00

Come to find out that Roland does "know the way to San Jose" although it took us two days to drive to San Jose. We made a stop half way and stayed at a Marriott hotel (thanks Kyle). The town happened to be having a Farmers Market that afternoon and we enjoyed shopping for apricots, plums and berries. Driving across the rest of the state we sampled from the fruit stands - strawberries and cherries. So, so far the trip has been very fruitful and we hope it continues to be so.

surprise outing

2011-04-28T10:03:00.003-06:00

Wednesday turned out a lot differently than I had planned. First I was doing some laundry for a friend, waiting for Jodi and Kyle to come so I could watch the kids, and tried to finish up my visiting teaching and then I was going to work on some scrapbooks. But then Jodi called and said they wouldn't be coming and Dad said "how about taking our tent to Snow Canyon and camping out?"
So that is what we did. We set up our tent and then went on a fun hike on the Hidden Pinyon trail. We didn't come equipped for meals so we make a quick trip back to town for dinner and then back to our little camp spot. It was a glorious view we woke up to this morning.
Wish you had all been there.

top and bottom - oldest to youngest

2011-04-14T15:48:00.003-06:00

We have had a fun filled few weeks. Jana, Phil and family came from Houston and natually so did everyone else. We followed whereever they went. As Jodi said, "its cheaper to drive all over Utah than to fly to Houston".

If the saying "a picture is worth a thousand words" is correct - and I have thousands of pictures from our adventures these past weeks - I would have a very wordy blog. There were so many darling pictures of all my darling grandchildren that I couldn't decide which ones to post - so I will leave you with this one photo of our oldest, Christian and our youngest, Sarah Joy and you will just have to believe that all of them are as cute as these two.

Max's broken leg

2011-03-31T21:20:00.010-06:00

Well, we had quite an adventure today when Jon called to let us know Max had broken his leg in a 4-wheeler accident and they were headed to St. George to the emergency room. When they arrived we gave Max a blessing, and carried him into the ER. Jon had made a nice splint with magazines and gauze that held helped immobilize Max's leg, but he was still in lots of pain. He received wonderful care from lots of nurses, attendants, and doctors and Max was very brave through it all. Tonight they are on their way home and we offer praise to the Lord for his care.

Max is attended by the triage nurse.

Getting settled while we wait for the x-rays.

The tubes and wires make it a little difficult to get comfortable, but Max is a good sport.

Max's x-ray shows a pretty good break where the 4-wheeler ran over his leg. Luckily only one of the bones was broken and there was no other damage to his leg or foot.

Max aint feeling so good.

One of the best orthopedic specialists in the state happened to be on call today so Max got the very best care. His room was filled with helpers while his leg was set and cast.

All's well that ends well. Popsicles and a chocolate shake helped ease the pain, along with brand new Star Wars pajamas, and he was sent home with a neat set of crutches just his size. We're proud of Max for being such a good sport through it all. Here he's showing off the hospital bracelet and the big bruise from the IV.

Grandma's circus

2011-03-10T16:18:00.010-07:00

In our travels the last few weeks we have been visited by some cute kids. Jana and family came to find us in our hotel in Dallas. We took a ride on the train at got off at just the right spot - the KrispyKreme donut store. They were melt-in-your-mouth delicious and this cute face behind the donut belongs to Ally.

Trying to entertain guests in the hotel was tricky. I think their favorite was riding on the escalator. But we promised that we could go for a swim in the pool.
The kids jumped right in but Jana and I were very surprised by the cold water when we tried to join them. I think we were a little early for swimming this year.

Between trips we had a fun overnight visit from Max and Brianna and Jon. The weather was lovely - we had a fun time at the Town Square playing in the water. It was really warm enough in St. George even though they left lots of snow at home.

We had an assignment to find new pajamas for Bri and Max. They didn't want to wait for night time to try them on.

We made a quick unexpected bus trip to California with the Art guys. We saw every picture in every art museum. But we did stop for a short visit at the beach. That was the most heavenly part of the whole trip for me.

birthday

2011-02-08T09:40:00.004-07:00

This weekend we were in Highland celebrating the birthday of our oldest grandson.
One of his special requests was that we bring his cousin to celebrate with him. That took some doing - but we managed and had a fun time co-ordinating pick up and drop off points. You can see that these fellas enjoy each others company and they can also east a lot of food.

On Sunday we were present to see Christian in action as he went about his Sunday duties one of which was playing the piano for priesthood meeting.

Jim has spent the last two years finishing their basement. Its really nice and almost finished. He has become quite the electrician and even knows what to do with all these wires.

If the sun shines they will come

2011-01-25T19:02:00.007-07:00

The past week was lively and full of fun visits from our grandchildren. I believe everyone was happy to see the sun shine and anxious to get out and enjoy. We started off with a visit from the Maestri family. We headed first to Paula's for lunch and then to the Red Hill to hike around.

Since last Monday was also Emma's birthday, we had to stop at 25 North Main to celebrate with a cupcake. YUM!

Wednesday brought the Jon Lee Family and we did all kinds of crazy things. Dressing up in the Dutch clothes made the girls happy.
There isn't a photo but there should have been one of Grandpa and all the Lee kids cuddled up on our bed watching Snow White and 7 Dwarfs. They watched it to the very end - some seeing it for the first time.

Then on Saturday the Simmons clan came to visit. The boys were determined to climb the Red Hill again and find the "Crack" and hike on through.
Jodi and Sarah came to help Grandma set up a bridal shower for cousin Amber.
Every week should be as full of fun as this one was.

Nutcracker

2010-12-23T20:28:00.004-07:00

This weekend I was invited to attend a performance of the Nutcracker Ballet with my
granddaughters Emma, Ellie and Kelsey and their moms. We had a fun time and really enjoyed the ballet. Afterwards we had super deluxe cupcakes at the Sweet Tooth Fairy Shop.

While we were enjoying our ballet the guys all went to the Conleys to watch the BYU Football Bowl game. Then for dinner we gave up waiting in line at the Texas Roadhouse and tried a fun new place in Highland where the Lee's recommended the Macaroni and Cheese.
Our weekend was full. We attended the Maestri's Ward Christmas Party, Jennie's performance Sunday in the Ward Choir, A lunch that included Jason's freshly smoked bacon,
We watched Barb make yummy neighbor treats, wrapped Christmas gifts until after midnight, had a fun FHE concert with piano performances by Kayson, Keanon and Christian. A recorder performance by Barb and a guitar duet by Kayson and Grandpa performing an original song written by Kayson. We woke Tuesday to a world covered in snow - but we needed to go home so we inched our way slowly southward - stopping for a short visit and gift delivery at the Simmons home.

A Busy Week

2010-12-13T08:11:00.004-07:00

This has been a busy week for us. First we started off by celebrating Dutch Christmas - our only guest was Paul Yssel - but we celebrated in traditional style with the opening of gifts - SURPRISE! It was a pair of socks. But Paul "whooop, whopped" it up in great style.
Tuesday we were honored by a visit from the Simmons fam. I had a fun time cuddling with Miss Sarah and chasing Sam and filling Zach with candy.
Next was the boys big trip to the NFR rodeo finals - you might not recognize the young man on the right - but believe it or not that is our Travis sans BYU bonnet.
He's sporting his new look. Doesn't he look handsome. So does Max and Jon.

While the boys were at the rodeo we girls (plus Dallin) had a party of our own.
Jolynn got in some shopping time and the girls and I went swimming at the Washington City Pool. We spent time dressing up in the nativity clothes and Miss Becca makes an especially beautiful angel.

To round off our busy week we made a quick dash to California and back. The highlight of our weekend was the visit to the new Yssel Estate. Wow! Beautiful and peaceful! I think the Yssels have found just the right spot.
Although we were a little late and the chocolate letters were limited to N's and P's and G's, - we had to make a stop at the Holland America store in Artesia. We did find some of our traditional favorites and loaded up on Speculaas cookies and mousies.
We made it home Saturday night in time to party with the Hafens and watch the final round of the NFR. Yeah Cody!

Turkey Eats Crow

2010-11-28T08:29:00.002-07:00

"Al" makes his final appearance in our blog sporting the wrong colors.
As a promise to our new friend George - we pose in the colors of the winning team.

Turkey Day continued

2010-11-28T08:09:00.011-07:00

To reach our destination we had to travel through Zion National Park which was glorious in the snow.

We arrived at the Clear Creek Ranch and we welcomed by the Jon Lee fam and the party began. The next morning we found these cool icicles out our window.

The most popular activity of the week was enjoyed by the kids. They loved being pulled around in the snow on their sleds.

While waiting for dinner time - Jim and Dad went to winterize the cabin only to find that it was already winterized.

We had a moment of panic went the electricity went off for awhile but never fear for Jon had propane ovens and he and Jolynn had dinner under control.

"Al" poses proudly here with 12 of our cute grandkids - just before our Thanksgiving dinner.

Turkey Day

2010-11-28T08:01:00.003-07:00

To continue our turkey story we show you "Al" amidst the snow as we traveled to our meeting place.

Sleep when the wind blows

2010-11-23T20:54:00.005-07:00

With "fowl" weather being forecast for the next few days, we decided to enlist the aid of our friend "Alamo" as we finished up a few chores that we thought might be better accomplished while the sun was still shining.

Aunt Trish kindly shared some iris bulbs with us - so we got those planted and Dad is always glad for a helper when its time to hang the Christmas lights.

Now we are ready! Bring on the "fowl" weather!

Alamo the Great Gobbler

2010-11-23T20:49:00.002-07:00

Perhaps some of you will remember "Alamo". He is our prize turkey from a previous trip to Houston.
Well here he is celebrating with us this holiday season.
Alamo, Dad and I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!

trick or treat

2010-10-19T15:07:00.003-06:00

Found this picture while working on our family scrapbook. Thought it was a good time to share it. Aren't you all so cute? I love the shoes.

being a grandma

2010-09-25T06:01:00.004-06:00

After spending a few weeks here in Houston I am re-working my definition of being a grandma. But rocking this little one to sleep has been part of my ideal of the
grandma job description even if I have to stand up sometimes to finish her off and my arms get tired cuz some babies aren't lightweights. (I think boppy's were made for Grandmas)
Maybe the best view of a grandchild is when they are sound asleep. No, I think the best view is when they look at you and smile.

Trip to Brighton

2010-09-05T22:16:00.003-06:00

A few days in a big log home at beautiful Brighton, with lots of time for scrapbooking and reading while Roland taught his workshop.

Making the rounds

2010-08-16T19:22:00.022-06:00

You can squeeze a lot of fun into a weekend if you are willing to drive a little.

Here is Grandpa Lee meeting little Sarah Joy Simmons for the first time.

Isn't she precious!

We watched Sam eat a "lallow pop" and then borrowed Kade and took him with us on our adventure.

Our first activity included Cody Lee as he cheered on his brother Kayson.

Kayson was competing in a Karate tournament and came away with victory ribbons.

We relaxed in Jim's backyard and enjoyed loving this beauty - Miss Becca Lee

We watched these three clowns - Dallin, Josh and Cody try to fit in the same wagon and convince someone to pull them around the yard.

We had all the kids ready for bed and family prayers - but we were waiting for Grandpa to put his camera away.

The next morning we found ourselves helping Grandpa with a chore for Barbie.

Kade, Keanon, Kelsey, Alyssa and Hannah played games in one of the newly finished rooms in Jim's basement.

Sunday we stopped for a fun and fanciful visit with the Maestri family - note they are still decked out in their Sunday best.

We returned Kade to his home where he was sorely missed and royally welcomed.

And we needed one more love and look at little Miss Sarah in yet another lovely outfit- then we headed back home.
A long drive, a busy weekend, tired bodies, but smiling faces. We love our family!

39 Years

2010-07-26T14:06:00.002-06:00

To celebrate our 39th anniversary we pulled a handcart in the Days of 47 Parade in SLC.
I'd never make it as a pioneer. We walked 3 miles and I was exhausted.
A nice spectator from the side of the road hopped up to take this picture for us.

a great find

2010-07-04T22:01:00.006-06:00

Last week we had a fun time with the Maestri family at the cabin. While hiking around we tried to show Emma and Ellie the fossils imbeded in the rocks around the cabin.
Emma bent down, dug a little bit in the dirt and came up with this and asked, "is this a fossil?". We sputtered in surprise and said, "No, but it sure is a good find." A good looking arrowhead.

red, white and blue

2010-07-04T21:46:00.003-06:00

Some things never change! Some things are too good to change - like cabin breakfast. Diet or no diet there is nothing like bacon, eggs, hash browns, toast and hot chocolate for breakfast at the cabin.
As we left town and cell phone access I checked in with Jana to tell her we were headed to the cabin. She asked "are you going to dress up?" I didn't understand the question because no one dresses up to go to the cabin. But the next morning as Dad and I put on our red, white and blue t-shirts and posed by the cabin flag I understood her question.
Of course we are going to dress up - it's the 4th of July! And even though Dad and I were the only ones staying at the cabin we still celebrated in our traditional way.

Adopted

2010-06-20T12:55:00.009-06:00

We've adopted a Bighorn sheep and we've named him Crawford. He represents our love for Zion National Park and joins our other stuffed friends R.W and Frank at the cabin.

below: Crawford in the obligatory family pose on the cabin swing.

Lots going on

2010-06-11T09:40:00.004-06:00

As always there is lots going on at our house and near our house and I think anything or anyone connected with Dad finds themselves involved in all kinds of activities.
For the last two weeks we have been involved many activities. First and most fun was moving Grandpa and Grandma Reeder back to St. George (actually Washington) but at least they are
nearby. This is a photo of their lovely new home. Grandpa has his own office and Grandma has a lovely view in all directions (inside and outside) from her comfy chair.

Next was hanging Dad's new art show in Zion Park. I never believed we could fit all those giant painting in the back seat of the truck - but we did and they made the trip in good condition. See Dad's blog for a view of the latest and greatest.

Our next day was devoted to helping set up for the wedding Megan and Ali'i. We hauled tables and chairs. Friday was the wedding and it was fun to have the Conleys and the Grant Lees in town to attend the festivities. The reception setting was in a beautiful backyard in Santa Clara. The only down side was the 100+ degree weather which didn't bother us too much but was uncomfortable for the bride in her many layered dress.

Saturday we had a fun visit from Jodi and the boys. It was too hot to do too much outdoors but they enjoyed painting with Grandpa. Popsicles cooled them down a bit too.

Sunday-Monday-Tuesday are now Dad's busiest days but he is enjoying his association with the young people in his new ward. For FHE we did a service project with the ward - we went from door to door offering a plate of brownies and cookies and offered to do chores in their yard.
It was fun and well attended.

Finally by Wednesday it slowed down enough for me to tackle my genealogy again. Dad is also busy painting today - a sky wash - so don't expect him to answer his phone till the painting is completed. We love you all!

A beautiful day

2010-04-11T09:44:00.005-06:00

There were so many beautiful days this week and we couldn't resist the chance to hike up on the red hills. Jim and family are good climbers and posed for this picture against the blue, blue sky.

Barb and little Cody hiked right along with the rest of them.

Budding artists

2010-03-30T19:59:00.005-06:00

These young artists spent a week or more creating this bright mosaic.

Grandpa was doing an art workshop in the neighborhood so arrangements were made for him to be the guest instructor for this cute group of homeschoolers. They wanted to paint all day long.

I have a garden

2010-03-23T08:03:00.002-06:00

I have a garden, a lovely garden with radishes! Rob and Trish have been kind enough to let me play in the dirt in the backyard of their condo. We built grow boxes and planted veggies and flowers from seeds clear back in January. I went to water and check on my little garden yesterday and came away with my first crop - radishes!
Not too big yet, but they are coming. Can't wait to see what we produce next.
Sorry about all you folks still in the snow. Its a beautiful day in Dixie!

a room with a view

2010-02-13T21:30:00.004-07:00

Sometimes you just get lucky in the room assignments and sometimes you don't.
This time we drew the good room with a great view and a sunshiney balcony.
Since I had such a great view of the pool and everything in it - I just couldn't
bring myself to get on the old swimsuit and go for a swim. The view was too good.
But I did spend many an hour in the sunshine reading my book. Ahhhhhhh!

A new friend

2010-02-12T17:15:00.004-07:00

I met this new friend at the conference I went to with Grandpa. This is Mojave Max!
He is a friend of the desert. He has a website - http://www.mojavemax.com/ - that I thought might be of interest to you young computer geeks.

Renewed

2010-02-12T17:09:00.004-07:00

After the cold and rainy days we've had at home, our trip to San Diego gave us an uplift. Give me sunshine, sand and water and I am a happy girl.
For those of you still bogged down in the snow and gray skies, I send to you this picture of sunshine and sea and a happy me.

Holiday Happiness

2010-01-11T19:12:00.003-07:00

Our holidays are just now drawing to a close as the Cherry's returned to Houston yesterday. We've had a month long celebration starting with Dutch Christmas on Dec 5

Spending time with our grandchildren is the best way to celebrate. Sometimes its just fun to watch them interact with each other.

Here is my challenge - to get a photo of all twenty grandchildren at one time.
We've already decided that it was impossible to get them to hold still so Roland tried taking a video. While they were posing for the video someone got this shot of
all of them.

Aren't all those babies adorable? What a houseful!
I especially wanted this picture at that time before all the upcoming birthdays change their ages. At that point in time they were ages 12-11-10-9-7-7-6-6-5-5-4-3-3-3-2-2-1-1-1 and 8 months.

We are a happy familee!

Laughing with the grandkids

2009-12-14T10:39:00.005-07:00

Kayson got Cody laughing so hard using a "Whoopee Cushion" that we were all rolling on the floor.

Check out the video...you'll be laughing too!

Closed for the Season!

2009-12-03T13:52:00.002-07:00

Unless we have some amazingly warm weather this month consider the cabin closed for the season. Dad and I went up Tuesday and gathered in the outdoor furniture, drained the water jugs, and closed up the cabin for a long winter's nap. Looking forward to an early Spring and more time at the cabin next year.

Love One Another

2009-10-27T09:17:00.004-06:00

These cuties love each other and put up with a lot from each other. Aren't they the cutest!

Wrongfully accused

2009-10-27T09:14:00.003-06:00

This is Lizzie (Izzy), Jon's new puppy. I accused her of trying to steal my shoe
only to find out that the velcro from my tiva was stuck to her collar. Sorry Lizzie!

Still Standing After All These Years

2009-10-27T09:07:00.003-06:00

We've been wandering again and visiting those we love but our final stop was at the cabin. That's a place we've loved for many, many years. It was a beautiful sunny day and we enjoyed just sitting in the sun and soaking up the peace.
Of course, it was more fun because we found our kids and grandkids there enjoying too.

Four Eyes Two Teeth

2009-10-04T21:51:00.002-06:00

I know Sam's had lots of blog time lately but he is so darn cute!
He loved trying on Grandpa's glasses and made us all giggle with his professor look.

Softer Side of Football

2009-09-30T11:10:00.006-06:00

Jon must be softening up lately. He's let the girls come to the football games the last two weeks. Don't they add something beautiful to an otherwise rough and sweaty game?

Fun Times

2009-09-30T11:05:00.002-06:00

Aunt Verona and I had a busy weekend. She taught me the finer points of the New Family Search and we have lots of names ready to submit. We even divided up the work and she is going to work on the Van Galen lines and get them ready.

up and down, back and forth, here and there

2009-09-21T16:05:00.008-06:00

As we travel up and down the I-15 highway this summer we run into the nicest people.
Here we are enjoying a visit from Jodi and sons. Kade is trying his hand at watercolor in Grandpa's studio.

We stopped in Cedar and found Zach and Ellie enjoying a computer game

Sam and Josh enjoying the sandbox.

Josh, Emma and Ellie are watching Grandpa paint at Thanksgiving Point.
The next day (sorry no pictures) I got to attend Kelsey and Keanon's soccer games

Of course, Grandpa was in town for the BYU game and had Kayson, Alyssa, Christian
and Travis (not pictured) there with him. Alyssa brought a new dimension to their
game watching - she was interested in the cheerleaders.

We took a little side trip this weekend and got to see Jon's family. Here they are showing off their newest family member - Lizzie the Puppy.
We love our family and are glad we get to see them as we travel back and forth.

Emma Rides the Bus

2009-08-08T22:03:00.003-06:00

It was fun to be there for Emma's first school days. She proudly and confidently strode right up and jumped on the bus, pausing only for a quick fashion shot with her new pink backpack. Ellie inherited Emma's old backpack and wore it to the bus stop too.

In trouble now

2009-08-01T21:27:00.004-06:00

Grandma always wants to make everyone happy. That was the case this morning.
Joshua and I were up early and had cereal and toast for breakfast and we'd been playing outside for an hour or more before Emma and Ellie woke up. We all stayed outside for a while longer before they decided they were ready for their breakfast.
Jason and Jennie were busy preparing for a big singles festival and their living room
has been the storage point for all kinds of goodies including about 20 giant bags of popcorn.
Emma suggested that we have ice cream for breakfast and I thought that sounded like a great idea. So I scooped up big bowls of chocolate mint ice cream all around and added a bowlful of popcorn to round things out. Everyone ate with great enthusiasm.
When we talked about our not-so-healthy breakfast Ellie said "my mom's going to put you in time out!" Guess I'll be in trouble soon but it sure was fun.

Tonight the girls were demonstrating their tumbling moves and invited me to join them. My excuse for not doing summersaults and hand stands with them was "I'm out of shape" to which Emma replied "well, why don't you get in shape?" Yikes!

Getting an education

2009-07-31T13:50:00.003-06:00

This week and next I am spending time with our grandchildren. It's great to get to spend one-on-one time with them.
Little Sam Simmons and I spent quality time trying to keep each other entertained in a hotel room. We both agree that it's more fun to be outside.
Serving dinner to Ellie Maestri last night - we put butter and parmesean cheese on our pasta - obviously I'm not the gourmet cook her parents are - she asked "only one kind of cheese?"
And then this morning visiting with Kelsey, she was practicing her ABC's in ASL and wasn't sure of the right sign for the letter "s". When I told her I didn't know either, she asked "Grandma, didn't you ever go to Pre-school?"
I'm learning a lot from these little ones - the most important thing I am learning is that I love being with them.

Blesssings

2009-07-27T19:41:00.005-06:00

Brianna was irresistably sweet as she offered the blessing on our dinner last night.

We salute!

2009-07-19T13:47:00.006-06:00

The above photo, among many others, is framed and hanging on the wall of our cabin. It is in memory of the many fun times we have had there together as a family. Our grandson, Christian was fascinated by this particular photo and asked his family if they would dress-up and try to re-enact this re-enactment. I was so please that they really tried Here is their version of our "salute to our country" photo.

Cabin Camp

2009-07-12T19:35:00.010-06:00

We welcome this years' first-time cabin camp attendees - Little Cody and Big Dallin

Roland leads the little campers on a hike to explore the mountainside.

Aunt Barbara had time to create some festive and fabulous hairdos for Brianna,
Hannah, Kelsey, and Alyssa.

A salute to the cabin chores of the past - these strong young cousins are called
upon to fix the rock edging on the cabin driveway.

Tired but happy helpers have finished their chores and now can go swimming!

Happy 4th

2009-07-04T20:13:00.003-06:00

We started our holiday morning by hiking up Main Street to Ancestor Square.
Of course we were waylaid by the water fountain at the Town Square. We stopped to cool off for a second and then continued on our way. There was a fun Farmer's Market happening in Ancestor Square which included some Irish fiddlers and entertainers.
Rather than go directly home we took a side trip to the Vernon Worthen Park where there was all kinds of activities. Watermelon seed spitting contests, all kinds of good Mexican food boths, sno-cones, karaoke (some good-some bad) and I think the weirdest thing we saw was a booth selling deep fried twinkies - Ugh!
We've had an enjoyable day and plan to top it off by walking up Main Street again tonight to sit and watch the fireworks from Town Square. Love to you all!

Science Camp

2009-06-29T14:45:00.005-06:00

It was our pleasure to go to Cedar and attend the closing banquet of Science Camp.
Although I know the boys - Jake and Trav - had a good time they were still very happy to see their families coming to pick them up.

Happy places

2009-06-29T14:41:00.003-06:00

Okay Lee kids can you remember this place? Do you have any memories of this place that you would like to share?
I think I will go for a visit and see if it is just as wonderful as I remember.
Splash!

More Cousins

2009-06-29T14:33:00.004-06:00

We gathered on Sunday, June 7 for Cody Lee's Blessing Day.
I think we have a picture of all the kids, except Cody.
Oops! Looks like we are missing Dallin and Sam and our Houstonites.
We are quite the crowd when we are all together.

Cousins!

2009-06-25T13:53:00.004-06:00

This month we have been to visit all of our grandchildren. As we download our pictures we will try to share some of the fun times we have had while visiting.
This was at our FHE with the Lawyer Family. It was fun to be with all our cousins and cousin-cousins.

pictured above - Hannah, Kelsey, Kade, Travis, Christian, Kayson and Ellie

Uncle "fish fish" Robert

2009-06-12T18:32:00.003-06:00

we take this moment to honor one of the all time great fishermen, and a darn good guy to boot. Happy Birthday old man!

Interested in everything

2009-06-02T08:00:00.002-06:00

Here's a boy who is interested in everything! We are excited to wish you Happy Birthday #10. Have a great day exploring the world. We love you Kayson!

Once upon a time

2009-05-29T07:09:00.004-06:00

As you can see, I once was young and cute and now I am just plain old.
But life is still fun and I'm glad to still be around.
Thanks for all the birthday gifts, cards, and wishes.

My First Gift

2009-05-14T06:58:00.003-06:00

Here he is! My first mother's day gift. Jim was born on Mother's day many, many, many years ago. Happy Birthday Jim! What does one get for the guy who has everything? Why cheese, of course.

Love you, Mom and Dad

Friday Activities

2009-05-10T21:34:00.003-06:00

After a long day at the park this old pioneer was saved from certain starvation
by a yummy lunch at the In and Out.

Friday morning Grandpa and his friends gave "tours" to the 2nd graders and taught them about the different wagons and means of transportation used in the early days.
Some of the young people had no idea that this was a stagecoach. Doesn't anyone watch westerns anymore? Some suggested that this might be a fire engine and one even thought it was a princess carriage.

Sons of the Utah Pioneers

2009-05-10T21:23:00.003-06:00

This weekend we got to ride in the Washington Cotton Days parade with some of our friends from the Son of the Utah Pioneers.

Couldn't let this day go by -

2009-04-18T21:22:00.002-06:00

Uncle Bill has celebrated many many birthdays - but we couldn't let this day go by without remembering him. Wasn't he a cute little guy?

Happy Birthday Bill - we love you!

Max

2009-04-18T07:16:00.004-06:00

Grandkids don't come more loving, cheerful, full of fun and inquisitive than Max.
Have a happy day Max, we love you and hope you have a birthday full of fun.

Miss Ally

2009-04-16T21:56:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to Little Miss Ally! We love you!

Family Names

2009-04-11T21:57:00.003-06:00

Today, thanks to lots of help from lots of people, we completed the work for 87 of our family. Take a minute to think about all that that includes. I thank you all for your willingness to help.

Happy Easter!

Kade's Big Day

2009-04-08T08:26:00.002-06:00

Guess who is celebrating today! It's our amazing grandson Kade!
I will have to guess that he is turning 6.
Have a Happy Birthday Kade. We love you!

Fun with the Cherry Family

2009-04-05T20:30:00.005-06:00

It has been fun to have Jana Phil, Mattie, Katie, and Ally in St. George for a visit. We're making sure they get a healthy dose of sun and sand! They especially liked hiking in the desert by Grandma and Grandpa Cherry's house. Katie and Grandpa Lee made sand castles while Mattie and his dad explored some neat lava caves. We saw quail, rabbits, roadrunners and ANTS! Katie does not like ants very much.

It was super-fun when Kade, Zach and Sammy came to visit. We went on walks to the town square and floated sticks down the gutters. Katie liked playing with the Fisher Price Barn animals.

An elegant occasion

2009-03-23T13:25:00.003-06:00

Alyssa wanted to be sure we included a "tea" party with our activities this weekend when we all gathered to celebrate Grandpa's birthday. Of course, it was ladies only at the tea party. And a tea party isn't complete without Auntie Trisha in attendance. We had a delicious and elegant party. Thanks Alyssa for your fun idea.

Small teachers

2009-03-23T13:21:00.004-06:00

Grandpa's fun birthday gift from all the family was an Ipod Touch.
Who's going to teach him how to use it? Why Max(age 4) and Ellie (age 3)!
They are already experts with their fathers' Ipods.

A Big Birthday!

2009-03-23T12:52:00.004-06:00

A big group hug for Grandpa on his birthday! Our children and grandchildren gathered for a fun surprise birthday party for Grandpa on his special day.
Grandpa was surrounded by all the grandchildren as he tried to open his gifts.
Happy Birthday Grandpa!

A family favorite

2009-03-10T07:28:00.002-06:00

The baby of the family is always everyone's favorite. She's had all kinds of names.
Pat, Pataruska. Grandpa always called her "Treeeesha". She's called Bubby by lots of cute people nowdays. But most of us know her as our favorite Aunt Trisha.
Happy Birthday Trisha. We love you!

Grandma Lee's

2009-03-09T09:31:00.003-06:00

What do you do when you run out of Grandma Sycamore bread? Well, once I knew how to make bread, maybe I can try again. It turned out yummy and Grandpa found it an acceptable substitute.

Luis and Tiffani

2009-03-07T21:14:00.002-07:00

Here they are - our long time friends - The Wells Family!
They have a new addition. Luis. Luis is Tiffani's husband and he will be a fun addition to an already fun family.

Katelyn's Big Day!

2009-03-06T11:15:00.003-07:00

March is the month for Happy Birthday greetings to our scrumpdiliumpscious grand daughter, Katelyn. We love her beautiful big eyes and happy smiles. We look forward to seeing her soon. Love you Katie!

Spring!

2009-02-26T10:32:00.004-07:00

For those of you still buried in snow, take heart for Spring is coming!
Dad was excited to take a picture of the daffodils blooming in our yard.
This morning there are several more. Ahhh! It is wonderful to feel the warmth of the sun and see the blue sky and the flowers blooming. Life is good!

Keanon's Big Day

2009-02-25T07:48:00.001-07:00

Today we are celebrating Keanon's Birthday #7.
Hooray for Keanon. We love you!

Oldies but Goodies

2009-02-20T09:37:00.003-07:00

Today we salute our vivacious and fun loving Aunt Helen. This is really an old picture of her in her youth but still it's Aunt Helen. We had such fun times with her. I associate all the home arts with Aunt Helen. She sewed, she knitted and boy, did she cook. I miss her Koek and whole wheat bread. She was our source of gov't cheese which we appreciated so much. Do you remember her?

Keanon's Funny Faces

2009-02-15T14:14:00.004-07:00

Last Sunday night we were entertained by the antics of Keanon. He had us all giggling with his up-side-down silliness.

My Three Loves

2009-02-14T08:38:00.010-07:00

A funny thing happened the other day, although Dad didn't think it was too funny. We ran into the daughter of our long-time family friends while we were touring a new facility in town. She and I visited while Dad continued the tour. She was surprised to learn that we lived in town now and not out in Dammeron (that's been a while). She said, " I guess I've missed a chapter or two of your life". I said, "that's possible". She said "so are you with this guy now?" (pointing to dad) and I said "yes, I'm with this guy now". She was surprised to find that "this guy" was the same Roland she knew from the past. Well, almost the same.

So I introduce to you my three loves:

Roro, the love of my youth.

Rolando, the father of my children.

And Roland, the guy I am with now and forever.

Missionary example

2009-02-06T07:34:00.003-07:00

Grandma Reeder tells us stories of her childhood and how her mom used to gather up all the neighborhood children and take them to church.

Some of their neighbors were also their cousins. This is a photo of those children.

Last night we had the privilege of doing the temple work for some of those family members.

#1 Grandson

2009-02-05T05:43:00.002-07:00

Who can believe that our Christian is 12 already?

This isn't a recent picture but the smile is forever the same.

We love you and are excited for you.

Have a wonderful day!

Love, Grandma and Grandpa

Party Time!

2009-02-01T12:41:00.004-07:00

39! We had a birthday party Saturday to celebrate our many fun years with Paul.

The family gathered for a fun lunch provided by the Aunties. Each family was well represented. Eves, Aikens, Yssels, Lees and Steadmans. It was a tight squeeze for us all but an enjoyable party.

One day early

2009-01-29T07:28:00.006-07:00

One day early!

Tomorrow is Miss Ellie's birthday!

Happy Birthday Ellie! Since I couldn't choose which one of these photos I liked best- I decided to use them both.

What a beauty you are! We hope to give you our birthday hugs in person.

Love, Grandpa and Grandma

Grandma Rogers

2009-01-25T07:52:00.002-07:00

Today our Grandma Rogers would be 93 years old.

Wow! Some of you would have a hard time remembering her because she has been gone for 23 years. But I promise you that we had some good times at her house. Most of our Dutch Christmas recipes came from Grandma. Her pantry was always full of good things to eat and M&M's were always available for little snackers. No one could fry an egg as good as Mom! She loved you all very much.

Her legacy to us - the cabin, mousie sandwiches and undershirts.

Sunny Days

2009-01-21T15:30:00.003-07:00

I hope that wherever you live you are enjoying a little bit of sunshine.

For the last week we have been blessed with warm and sunny days.

Saturday Kade and Zach joined us for a hike in Pioneer Park and a root beer float at the Social Hall.

Sunday we walked to all our meetings just because it was so warm and lovely.

I've enjoyed reading my library books out on the back porch in the sunshine.

We've been eating lunch out back too.

Aahhhh! I love the sunshine!

Felicitations!

2009-01-17T07:21:00.004-07:00

Felicitations to Miss Emma!

Our blue-eyed beauty who is five years old today.

We love you Emma!

How could I resist?

2009-01-15T20:04:00.002-07:00

When Jon called the other day to ask if I would come watch the kids while he and Jolynn celebrated their anniversary - how could I resist?

Just look at these cute little faces. Who would pass up the chance to spend time playing dinosaurs with Max, or baking cookies with Alyssa and Hannah? Trav and I had planned to stay up late and watch a Star Wars movie - but it didn't happen this time. And Brianna was my all-night entertainment. This Grandma had a fun time.

Aunt Koi

2009-01-13T19:12:00.002-07:00

This is Aunt Koi. Today would be her birthday.

She was a fun sister, I miss having her around.

Barbara and I were looking at old pictures yesterday and she said she thought this was a nice picture of Koi.

Happy Birthday Grandma Reeder!

2009-01-12T08:53:00.010-07:00

Found this picture of Grandma Reeder as a little one.
Today is her birthday!
Too many candles to count but we sure love her and hope she has a happy day.

Zach - The big 3

2009-01-11T19:00:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday Zach! You are a tricky boy!
You can climb walls like Spiderman. We are excited to see what new tricks you come up with now that you are 3.

Happy Birthday Brianna!

2009-01-11T18:47:00.003-07:00

Grandpa couldn't resist shooting this photo of Brianna in all her holiday finery.
Isn't she beautiful. We love you Brianna.
Hope you had a happy birthday.

Welcome to Nellie's Scrapbook

2009-01-11T14:41:00.001-07:00

This is my Glamma shot.

Hi everyone. I thought you might like to see some of the things we've been up to lately.