This son of mine . . .

Boy's State Friends (Viewmont, West, Monticello, Sambat (Hunter), Willie, and the kid on the left end who just stood in the picture)

Willie is a busy kid but this past month was the busiest I can remember for him.  He attended Boys State @ WSU the first week of June.  (That makes all Petersen children having attended this American Legion activity.)  Why go?  Well, you have to attend to get what it's all about -- it's about making new friends from all over the state; developing a greater appreciation for our country and those who serve in the military and in political office; learning from veterans themselves about their service and sacrifice; actually learning how government works, and more.  Boys State is not for the ADHD kids of the world because there is a lot of sitting.  All reports indicate that Willie had a great time and it was a really good experience.

Next came leadership camp @ USU.  Seven Hunter High SBOs and Mr. Klein (their advisor) spent 3 nights and 4 days learning how to lead students and engage them in school spirit.  This was so good for all of the kids who attended.  Willie knew some of the SBOs from other schools through athletics and Boys State.  The kids were kind of shocked to hear some of the comments (negative) about Hunter.  They were asked if they had seen a stabbing or kids with guns.  (West Valley just gets a bad rap in everything including student government.)  All in all, it was another great activity and learning event for Willie and the other kids who attended.

Finally, it was basketball camp @ Dixie!  I think it fills the "best kind of camp ever" for my son.  A dozen games played over the course of a week (10-2 record); hanging out in "the hotel" (private joke); and having Karl Dad as the coach made it a great week.  Willie loves basketball!  All of the kids had a blast! 

So this son of mine now has football for the remainder of the summer.  He is working on an online class when I can get him to sit at the computer.  He tweets sometimes 4-5 times a day, and works a few hours a week @ Shavy Jones.  He is excited about everything and is the best son I'll ever have.

MKW

So if I had two more children, they would probably be named Meranda and Parker.  But, since that won't happen in this life I will just adopt my niece and nephew (Meranda and Parker) as additional children. 

Today, I am so proud of Meranda.  She graduated for USU on May 5.  I attended the graduation and it was very nice.  Graduating from college is a pretty big deal; but what Meranda is planning to do next is amazing.  On June 27, she will be dropped off at the Salt Lake International Airport where she will join a few others and depart for the Buenos Aires, Argentina MTC.  Meranda is going to serve a mission in Paraguay!  She will learn Spanish in Argentina. 

Yesterday was Meranda's time to speak in sacrament meeting.  Her talk was excellent and packed with enthusiasm.  In addition to Meranda's talk we got to hear from her mom!  (It was like listening to my mom 30 years ago -- precise and inspiring!)  There was also a special musical number and Parker was one of a double quartet.

Meranda will be an excellent missionary.  She will capture the attention of the South Americans with her beautiful hair.  All of the little children will want to touch it, I'm sure.

And then there were 4!



From left to right -- Elliott, Jack, Wyatt, and Molly

Go figure! 
Four (4) beautiful grandchillins! 
I can't believe it.

Elliott
Wyatt
Molly
Jack

I love you!

What a Month!

Events and Activities

Every Wednesday -- Dinner for Dad/Grandpa
Region Tennis - 3rd Place
Stake RS Leadership Mtg.
Ross' Birthday
Meranda's Graduation (USU) AAU Basketball Tourney
Elliott T-Ball
Tux fitting for Senior Ball
Stake President/RS Presidency PI
Meranda Jordan River Temple
State Tennis Tourney (lost to Pleasant Grove)
Wyatt's Birthday #3
Senior Ball (all day event)
Mother's Day (dinner at Annie's)
Molly's Birthday #2
AAU Basketball (continues)
Stake Temple Night Meeting (in preparation for Stake Conf.)
Stake Conference Adult Session
West Valley City Council Meeting
Cyprus High Awards Recognition Dinner
AP Test Prep/AP Test
Homework for Finals
New RS Presidency Training (23rd Ward)
Annie's Birthday
Flower planting and yard work at Dad/Grandpa's
Memorial Day visits to graves
Petersen Family Get-Together BBQ and fun
New Baby Grandson -- Jack Wilford Binggeli
Last Day of School

If I didn't keep track of it all, I wouldn't believe it really happened!  Whew!  I am looking forward to June!

Visiting Graves is a Family Priority

 So many families have loved ones who are buried in places outside their community and/or too far away to visit on Memorial Day.  Not so for many of our deceased family members.  There are too many to count and there are some graves we never visit.  But, for as long as I can remember visiting graves and decorating them with flowers on Memorial Day has long been a family thing.  My mom used to call Memorial Day "Decoration Day".  Interesting . . .   My own family, (Karl, Annie and her family, Haley and her family, and Willie and I), we make the rounds together on Sunday afternoon each year.  We go with the Huber family group on Monday.

At any rate, our visits take two days and here is the routine we generally follow:
Sunday
Valley View Cemetery  -- Ardith and Dewaine and Cousin Scott
Bluffdale -- Great grandparents Jones and Huber
American Fork  -- Grandparents Chipman and Uncle Bevan
Larkin Sandy -- Cousin Steve, Grandparents Petersen, and Friend Judy W.

Monday
Elysian Cemetery -- Grandparents Eccles
Wasatch Lawn -- Aunt Reve, Aunt Evelyn, Grandparents Huber, Uncle Glen, Uncle George, Great grandparents Meranda, my Mom, Uncle Blaine, Great grandparents Petersen
Mount Olivet -- Clara (Used to be Aunt and now 2nd Cousin)
Salt Lake City Cemetery -- Cousin David, Uncle "Dee"
Mount Calvery (SL City Cemetery) -- Great grandmother Mary Dwyer

So that's quite a few mums and some nice travel time.  It's a time to reminisce and think about those now gone from this life.  It's actually pretty peaceful and something to anticipate.

Happy Birthday, Annie

5-25-78

Another year older and wiser and all that jazz! Happy Birthday, daughter #1!

Elizabeth Ann (Annie) is a very good daughter (most of the time). Annie was born about 8:00 a.m. on a pleasant May morning. I have always called her the "golden granddaughter." She was the first granddaughter on both sides of the family and her grandmothers always and forever have had a special place in their hearts for her!

Annie is a planner, organized, and efficient. She is amazingly talented in artistic and domestic areas and in being a mom and a dedicated wife. I never know what she will do or say because she is highly opinionated. (In fact, all of my children are highly opinionated.) She loves her boys (including her husband and the big blond boy who lives with me). I love to watch her with her boys as she teaches them and loves them and helps them grow and develop. Little Molly is so cute when she calls out her name, "Hi Annie."

Happy Birthday, # 1 daughter of mine!

Moving Forward

Sometimes we (people of the world) get hung up on the events and things of the past that keep us from moving forward.  You know, the person who offends you and every time you see him/her; it ruins your day and then you let yourself think of all the people and experiences that have upset you; and, you let your thoughts ruin another day.  Well, I have been trying very hard not to do that.  I have been trying to keep my thoughts and actions "moving forward".  I have been snowplowing right through to the next opportunity the future presents.  And guess what, it works!  It feels better and helps me be more pleasant and get more things done. 

(Snow plough is the metaphor here because it is a little stronger image that a plow a farmer uses.  I know you appreciate the explanation.)

Mother's Day

So, it's "mother's day"!  You know it well -- the day you get breakfast in bed and all that jazz.  Well, I haven't had breakfast in bed since my girls were very, very young.  And, to be honest it's not really something I would generally look forward to on this day or any day. 

To me, every day is my day!  You see, I am lucky enough to be the mom to three amazing kids and they make just about every one of my days the best.  They are getting older and growing up to be pretty much more than I could have expected or anticipated.  They are smart, strong, healthy, beautiful/good looking, responsible, fun to be around, and a little kooky at times.  When we are all together, we laugh and giggle, and talk about crazy things, and it's all good.  I hope my kids know that I love them; that I feel so very blessed to be their mother; and, that I will try to be a good mom forever and always.

My role is ever changing!  By September, I will have two new grandchillins -- actually two new grandsons!  Haley will deliver a little one in June and Annie in September.  Grandmotherhood is basically indescribable, and it is genuinely a "grand" experience.

I think the best part of my "mother's day" is remembering my mom.  I think I can understand the whole celebration best when I think about Mom.  She was the miracle worker when it came to her role and function.  Juggling eight kids whose ages spanned nineteen years was no easy feat.  But she did it; and, she did it well.  Thinking of Mom brings tears to my eyes, warmth to my heart, and a tender images of her caring for me, my kids, my brothers and sisters, the grand kids, Dad, and really most everyone.  She will live forever in my thoughts and feelings.  I am proud to be her daughter and hopefully I can do justice to the seriousness with which she approached every day as a mother.  Happy Mother's Day!

Region Tennis



Willie and Eric @ Liberty Park

So, last spring Willie missed the Region II Tennis Tournament because he was trying to recover from a concussion sustained in a basketball game.  He couldn't think, focus, and had no energy.  I will never forget the symptoms.  Crazy!


This year was much different.  Not only did Willie make it to the Region II Tournament, but he and his doubles partner Eric took 3rd place in #1 Doubles.  Pretty cool!  All in all, the tennis team has had a great season!


The tournament was held at Liberty Park -- beautiful courts and seating for spectators.  The kids on the team are fortunate to have an excellent coach, Mr. Cummings.  He is efficient, organized, nice, and really cares about the kids.  He's one of those rare educators who kind of restores your faith in the education system.  We just need 71 other teachers just like him at the high school.


If you look closely at the photo, you will see Eric's eyes looking toward his mom's camera and Willie at mine. 

(PS -- Parker took 2nd in JV #1 Doubles.)

Influence

I did my student teaching for French at Bonneville Junior High School.  My cooperating teacher was Mlle Kron.  She was amazing!  Beautiful, articulate, feisty, chic, endearing are only a few of her amazing qualities.  She taught me so much about teaching and kids and French language and French culture and more.  I do not hesitate in giving her well-deserved credit for the kind of teacher I am today.  She taught me how to look at a chapter or topic and make it come alive; to think outside of the box (if you will); to look beyond what is and think more of what can be. 

While working at the Utah State Office of Ed, I was assigned to do a NW Accreditation visit to Bonneville JHS.  Very early on the morning of the accreditation visit, I walked into the school's media center and someone in the far corner called out my name!  It was Mlle Kron.  She was so excited to have me in her school; to tell all of the teachers there that she had trained me.  It was a powerful compliment!

Sad to report that Jean passed away early in April.  You can read her obituary (Jean Kron Crompton Falsone); she wrote it, of course!

The power of her influence is with me today in all aspects of my work.  Merci bien, Mlle Kron!

Friday the 13th -- Lucky Enough

For superstitious people like me, Friday the 13th is not one of those days you look forward to. There is always something weird and sometimes bad that happens to me on those days. However, this particular Friday the 13th was different from the beginning.

Karl and Willie managed to get up and out of the house on time for work and school without the "Mom" at home. Willie had a very nervous day anticipating the results of the SBO election at the high school. Karl had been nervous all week knowing he would be without a full staff in his department at work. I was 2500 miles away from home.

It's petty amazing that the events of the day were some of the best ever. Willie won the election -- President Petersen Hunter Wolverines! Karl got a raise and a bonus! And, I got notification at the meetings I attended in DC that Granite District will be one of 80 FAFSA Demonstration Project Schools -- announced by the US Department of Education.

The days leading up to today have been pretty stressful (but with good results) -- my sister Cindy had hip replacement surgery; my Dad celebrated birthday number 83 (he made it); gender of a new grand baby was determined; my sister Geneil had spinal/back surgery; potential complications of Haley's pregnancy were explained to me in more detail; crazy work schedule (new projects assignments); and house cleaning, cooking, and just taking care of stuff is always there. But, you know what, I made it through Friday the 13th with much to celebrate!

Happy Birthday, Haley Quinn

4-8-80

Haley was born on a Tuesday just after midnight. She has always been a very good daughter although in her toddler years she pinched me, bit me, and sometimes growled at me. As she grew up, I knew that she was going to be a very beautiful, smart, outgoing, meticulous adult. I love every stage my kids expereince, but for my daughters, I so enjoy watching them as mothers. Haley has her hands full with Molly and a new little one on the way, but she is taking it all in stride. Molly is always with her -- at ball games, shopping, cleaning the house, going to school, and more.

I am blessed to have two beautiful daughters, but today, Haley it is your day! Please know that you are loved, appreciated, and the best #2 daughter I will ever have.

Happy Birthday!

Tennis Tournament -- St. George Style

So we spent Friday and Saturday with the tennis team in St. George. The boys had matches at Hurricane High School, Desert Hills High School, and Pine View High School. Karl and I were the chauffeurs and the cheering section. We had a great time with the team and the coach. It was well-organized and just a lot of fun. I think I finally get tennis scoring after watching 5 matches of 5 -- singles 1, singles 2, singles 3, doubles 1, and doubles 2. Hunter HS placed 10th in a the 16 team tournament.

Random Thoughts

I thought of something to write about earlier today, but by the time I got to my computer it had been filed too deep in my memory to remember. So, I guess this will just be random.

Politics -- the Republicans annoy me and the Democrats disappoint me. I think maybe Huntsman is right and our country needs a third, fourth, maybe five political parties. Then, we would have variety in our political choices for President.

Religion -- I feel sad for the people in the world who are missing out on religion. I love my religion. I love the places I go to worship. I feel a warmth, a calmness, a feeling of love and hope when I go to places of worship. I think the feelings I get are affirmations that my religion is a good thing. I like the standards my religion sets for living my life. They are pretty basic and built on common sense. Some would argue that paying tithes and offerings aren't necessary for religious commitment. In my opinion, making such offerings is in a way showing my level of commitment to what I believe.

Teen pregnancy -- Why do teens get pregnant and think they are ready for rearing children. In this day of the year 2012, you'd think that young teens could figure it out. (Oh, wait a minute, teens get pregnant because they can't define abstinence and/or their parents don't want sex education included in their school experience. Thank you Utah State Legislature!) I get so sad when I see young kids bringing precious little ones into the world. Having spent may weeks counseling teen moms, I know that unless the moms are educated (high school and beyond), the little ones are likely to end up in the same circumstances as their moms (and dads).

Public school system -- I have only 15 month left with a child in the public education system. I will be so glad! I have spent my entire career in public education, and I am almost never surprised at its inefficiencies and lack of attention to inspiring and motivating and empowering young people. For example, my son has been a top of the GPA system for a long time. Around November, I asked the school people if he should be getting into Honor Society (looks good on scholarship applications). Well, my son got an application for Honor Society and it was dated 2003. So, I sent an email off to the school to see if there was a more recent application (a nearly ten year old xerox copy seemed odd). Well, I found out there was a new one, so I asked if my son could get a copy. He got three all in the same day and two of the three in the same class period (c o m m u n i c a t i o n?): one on his own; one from the counselor; and, one from someone who had it delivered with my son's names (first and last)spelled wrong on the paper. Next, we completed all of the fill in the blank, by hand, application (no writable pdf or online application) and submitted it to the teacher in charge. Well a few weeks have come and gone and my son finally got an acceptance letter (see below) -- impersonal, one-size-fits all form letter, not on letterhead, no date, no mention of my son's name, a punishment in the second paragraph, no induction ceremony or dinner, no certificate. So sorry to report, this is not unlike many other experiences at our public school. Arggg . . . Fifteen months and counting!

Basketball and my Kid #44

Well the excitement and enthusiasm that comes with playing in the State playoffs has come and gone. Left are the memories and the feelings and all that stuff. The first half of the playoff game was amazing. In typical Hunter basketball form, the team got down and made a hard-fought comeback to tie and go ahead. The second half was a downer. Bingham got a bunch of favorable calls (on Hunter that is) and their players went to the free throw line more times than equitable. However, that shouln't have kept the boys from winning. I have taught my kids that you can't leave the decision of a win up to an official. You have to play so well that regardless of the call(s), your team wins the game.

Bottom line -- it was cool for the team to go to the playoffs. Grandpa reminded Willie that not all kids make it to that level and he has in two sports this year with a third one on the way (tennis).

I am proud of the team but mostly the big blond kid who sports #44! In one of our earlier games this season, I overhead a coach from an opposing team say something like, ". . . that #44 for Hunter is the hardest working kid they have on the team . . ." Little did he know that kid he was talking about is my kid and that he is the hardest working kid in nearly everything he does.

Game Day!

It's the early morning of the biggest day in basketball history -- playoffs at the Maverick Center, 2:30 p.m., vs Bigham.

Basketball Wrap-Up

JV 15-5
Varsity 12-9

First winning season for Hunter High basketball in 9 years!
Next week -- 5A State Playoffs @ Maverick Center

What are you doing on your day off?

Willie and I are going to the dentist. It seems that when kids are busy in school, taking hard classes, not wanting to miss anything -- the only day to go to the dentist is on a day off. So, today is President's Day and a day off for schools and school worker people, so we will be at the dentist office this afternoon. No cavities or anything like that. Willie needs some bonding done on a chipped tooth and I have a little growth in my mouth that need to be removed. Nothing complicated.

Other than that we will just be chillin' the "day off" away. Willie had practice at 7:00 a.m., then got a "free" haircut at Great Clips with his U of U basketball ticket. I just talked to Haley and she is headed to Great Harvest to get a "buy one get one free" deal on bread.

I could do some things around the house or other stuff, but I am really not that interested.

Hope all of you blog readers have a great day!

Lettermen, Letterman

Not David Letterman or the "Lettermen" but . . . Willie the Hunter HS student athlete with a Lettermen's Jacket!

A letterman is a high school or college student who has met a specified level of participation or performance on a varsity athletic team, marching band, or in other performance school-sponsored activities.

A letterman jacket is a jacket traditionally worn by high school and college students in the United States to represent school and team pride as well as to display personal awards earned in athletics, academics or activities. Letterman jackets are also known as "varsity jackets" in some places.

Letterman jackets are almost never purchased before a student has earned a letter. In schools where only varsity letters are awarded this is usually in a students' junior or senior year. In schools where junior varsity letters are awarded, the jacket may also be purchased by junior varsity letter recipients, though the letter is placed just above the left pocket, leaving space for a (hopefully) future varsity letter.

For Willie, it's the first item of clothing he has ever (yes I mean ever) hung up on his own! Congrats Willie!

How many hours of basketball can you watch in a week?

Well the week started off with basketball, basketball, and more basketball. Yes, we watch all of the televised JAZZ games we can and all of the college games of interest. But my favorite basketball is at the high school level. This week Willie had a tripple-de-dipple varsity game on Wednesday with the usual JV game just before. I watch high school basketball from 5:15 p.m. or so until 9:20 p.m. or so. Thursday's evening activity included a U of U vs. U of AZ game at the Huntsman Center that included about one hour of good basketball and one hour of terrible Utah basketball. Friday night it was basketball back to the high school; again, JV and varsity and this time we got two wins! Saturday afternoon, back at the Huntsman Center, we watch Utah vs. ASU. It was the best basketball a Utah team has played in the Huntsman Center for more than 3 years!

I love basketball! I have never been any good at playing it (or any other sport), but I love watching my favorite player "Will the Thrill" and any others that I so choose. It's how I spend a good part of my free time from November through June. Yes!

And 1 more will make 4 -- grandchildren that is!

So in June another little grand baby will be coming to our family. Never in my wildest and widest imagination did I think I would have 3 grandchillins; and having 4 will be an amazing blessing!

Being a mother is more than I can explain in words. My three kids are strong, smart (above average), obedient (most of the time), good looking, funny, talented, and pleasant to be around. But, being a grandmother is something almost magical. When the little ones run into the kitchen on Sunday afternoon calling for me, my heart melts, and I can't think of anything better than a hug and a slobbery kiss from them.

I hope I can be a grandmother like my own mother and mother-in-law. I think often of my kids in their younger years and how they couldn't ever get enough grandmother time. I know it was a little different for Willie -- he only had about half the years with grandmothers that Annie and Haley had. But, I hope and pray my grandchillins will feel somewhat the same about me. I love them soooooo much!

December 30 -- Willie's Birthday #17

Happy Birthday, Willie! This post comes a day later than anticipated, but you were born 7 days ahead of schedule so that means this birthday post could be a week in advance. I know you don't want to hear that lame excuse --

Your birthday was a great day and after a few downs there were plenty of ups! Your sister and nephews did an awesome decoration job on your room; a cute young lady delivered birthday balloons to you; you got a bunch of birthday texts and tweets; you spent some time driving around with your mom, another sister, and Molly; you ate your favoite lunch -- hot dogs and garlic bread; you placed an order for your letterman's jacket; you got some nice birthday greetings in the mail; you celebrated with your favorite dinner -- pizza and garlic bread with a few family members; your sister who decorated your room also made you a delicious cherry-chocolate cake; and, your grandpa wrote in your card "you are getting to be a BIG boy". In my estimation, that was a pretty good birthday.

Thank you for being such a great son! You are smart, tall, good looking, thoughtful, and most of the time a dang good kid! You add excitement and activity to our family. You keep me focused on what life is all about! Happy Birthday, posted the day after!

Game Day!

Did you ever see the movie "Cat Ballou"? It's an old western starring Lee Marvin and Jane Fonda. Well, there's a part in the movie where Kid Shelleen (Lee Marvin) gets ready for a gunfight. If you can imagine a western legend getting ready for a gun fight -- beginning with the fancy underwear, shirt, pants, vest, boots, and finally the gun holster, gun and the hat . . . .

Well, fast forward to this morning (and every game day with Willie). He starts early getting every part of his basketball attire laid out on the couch. Then, he washes his hair and gets it just right. Next, the tighty underclothes; the socks and the warm-up clothes; and, everything uniform related in the bag. "Did I get everything?" is repeated 2 or 3 times. I get his snack ready -- orange, fruit snacks, and a Powerade or Gatorade. Then, he walks to the refrigerator to get his lucky mouthful of squirty whipping cream and then he's ready to head to the school.

Trust me, this is repeated before any and every basketball game; much like Kid Shelleen in "Cat Ballou" -- after all it's game day!

All of the time on preparation and then it's over in a few hours . . .

Well, Christmas Day has come and gone and the days of preparation were well worth the time and toil and stress and anxiety. The best part of my Christmas was being with my kids and their families and watching the little ones (under age 20) open their gifts with excitement and happiness. It's pretty cool to look at everyone gathered in the family room and see how our family of five has grown to ten with a new little one to join us in June.

I also enjoyed Christmas at Dad's. I wasn't sure what to expect with Mom not around, but things went pretty well. Dad wanted to keep things as much the same as he could. That meant some shopping, new socks for everyone, and the traditional Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day snacks. Thanks to everyone, all activities went well.

Well, now it's over for another year and many of us have a few days off to relax and enjoy the company of family.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas is almost here!

I am taking a break. I have been organizing and wrapping gifts all day long. My knees are a little weary from standing. I still have a few more gifts to wrap and then some grocery shopping to do and then I am ready for the big day.

I listened to KSL talk radio this morning during the Doug Wright Christmas gift "find". Every year just a few days before Christmas he starts this call in, text in process of people needing to find gifts and people who stumble across the gifts on the "find" list. I listen because there is always someone looking for some obscure gift like: Purple Pie Man (Strawberry Shortcake character); a sugar glider (rodent); a Costco singing Teddy Bear; and, Scottish Dog magnets were some of the more interesting.

I have purchased some pretty lame gifts over the years. In my older age, however, I try to stay true to things I know (hope) will be nice and also useful.

Enough for now -- back to the wrapping!

People Pass On

Not to put a damper on the holiday celebrations, but people I know are passing away. Tonight I received a late phone call that one of the "over 80" sisters in our ward passed away, Hope Latham. Hope and her husband Ron had gone to Jim's Restaurant to celebrate his birthday (he is also over 80). She collapsed at the restaurant and could not be revived there or at the hospital.

Hope has been confined to her home pretty much the past 2-3 years. She hasn't been able to get to church or drive her car or go shopping. I was her visiting teacher for a year or so and she told me many times about how she worked with Ardith in the Primary and she bowled on Tuesday nights at Delton Lanes probably in the same league as my mom. She lost her first husband 50 some years ago and has been married to Ron for most of those 50 some years. She lived a vibrant and active life. In fact, Willie and Karl visited with her just yesterday afternoon and she was looking forward to going out to dinner tonight.

Two weeks ago, we lost a young sophomore student at Hunter High -- she collapsed after school, was taken to the hospital and later passed on -- internal bleeding.

A friend of mine lost her aunt last week. Another friend lost her mother. A young mother in a neighboring ward died leaving two young daughters behind. Ross' great uncle passed away last week.

On Saturday, my dad and I were talking about how you [all of us] have only a certain amount of time on earth as mortals. When your time is up you pass on to an undetermined amount of time in the next life. It is so important to make the most of the time you have while you can in this mortal existence. You only get one opportunity to be here. Time here does not allow for repeating events and experiences or making up for lost opportunities. So, try to do what's right, be kind and nice to others, count your blessings and offer thanks, take care of those around you, love as many people as you can, study and learn everything you can about this life and all that it involves, and believe in God and His Son and live their commandments.

What's on your Chirstmas list?

Willie wants some money and love; tie and white shirts, too; swim suit, shoes, and homework help, and a basketball hoop. Dad just wants a Hunter shirt; Mom a good night's rest. Christmas, it is coming fast; Mom's a LITTLE stressed.

So, after decorating a Christmas tree for the second time, I am ready to focus on the Christmas gifting purchasing process. I always hold out for the big bonus check that never seems to come my way as $$$$ for Christmas. Since that will never ever happen, I get into the savings account as a huge and thankful for resource for the purchasing of the gifts.

With only a week to go for "wrapping' things up for the big day, I'm shifting into full gear this week. If there are any pointers you can offer or any great sales here or there, well, send them my way.

Winning Team!

What a way to start the basketball season! Winning team Hunter over East! It was an amazing game. The kids played as a team and they battled hard. I was so very proud to be part of the winning team and not the losing team.

The day before Thanksgiving and . . .

So what do you do on the day before Thanksgiving? Well, I got up an hour later than I usually do. It was a work day for me but very flexible in that I didn't need to get to a school or to a meeting for an entire day! So, I did some early morning shopping for a few Thanksgiving dinner essentials; went to the credit union to make a car payment; stopped by the cemetery to put some new artificial flowers on Mom's grave; stopped by the Home Goods store in Sugarhouse; and, then spent some time at the office.

My day got a little intense with a few parents in the Superintendent's office and a call from one of our school board members, but everything worked out for the best.

Willie had basketball early this morning and stayed after to practice foul shots. When he got home, Haley and Molly stopped by to spend lunch time with him. In a few minutes, I am going to head to South Jordan to pick up the grandsons and eventually make my way to Grandpa/Dad's to set things up for the big dinner tomorrow.

Thanksgiving will be different this year, but not to worry, life goes on until it ends; and, what's left are sweet memories of the past.

So, that's my day before Thanksgiving report.

At 35,000 Feet!

So, I am headed home from a two-day meeting in the Washington, DC area. It was an excellent meeting and I learned a lot and now have more to add to my already crazy work life.

I am working on the plane, headed home, above 35,000 feet. Pretty crazy if you ask me! Technology is totally amazing!

My meetings ended at the Russell Senate Building located just south of the US Capitol. In room 325 I attended a very excellent briefing on a recent survey of school counselors that included some pretty incredible results. I can report later if you are interested.

Other news -- Willie is an official member of the HHS b-ball team. We are all looking forward to an improved basketball year. Willie is a little more confident and ready to move into more of a leadership role on the team, and that is good!

November is one of my favorite months!

I love November!
It's one of four months with only 30 days.
It's Karl's birthday month.
We vote in November and honor military service people.
We give thanks and prepare to give gifts.
It's a month of family and food and fun.
It's usually the month we get our first snow storm.
It's a month of remembrance for those who have gone on.
It's the month when high school and college basketball gets going.
It's a month of thinking about Christmas and all that it involves.

Do you know how proud I am of Willie? Well, I am very proud of him! He is a crazy boy! He is an excellent student! He makes me laugh. I am just proud of him!

In all of our reports on his football seson I am not sure any of us have mentioned that Willie was a starter all season on the offensive line. He started out as left or right tackle; moved into the center spot for a few games; and, ended the season at right tackle. Did I mention he was a starter? That's amazing to me. He worked so hard and learned his position and had a very positive season. The wins and losses don't necessarily describe the positive football season we expereinced. A new coach, new energy, high standards, and an incredible work ethic made it one of the best football seasons I can remember. The last game ended up in a lopsided defeat vs. Lone Peak, but I couldn't have been prouder of my son, the other players and the coaching staff.

So we went to the beach!

We have talked about a trip to the beach all summer. Not the beach at the Great Salt Lake that is 15 miles from home, but the beach in Southern California! Well, we did it! We left the Wood's driveway at 6:20 p.m on Thursday evening and drove to Newport Beach. Seventy five hours later we dropped off the Woods, Sunday evening around 9:30 p.m.

We had the best time ever. Driving, laughing, telling weird stories, wondering how we ended up staying in a beautiful place at such a nice price, watching the ocean, eating some major unhealthy but tasty food, and more. We drove the family truckstar (the FLEX) and it was a sweet ride and right in style with Southern Cal vehicles!

It's hard to believe two teenage boys and a college coed would spend all that time with two crazy ladies, but they did, and we had a blast!

Oh no! The girl/boy activity stuff comes to my house.

Okay, so we have managed to avoid the girl/boy activity in our house. However, it finally happened (sniff, sniff). The door bell rang and on the front porch something for the boy in my house from a girl.

So, the boy responded. Next, Sadie Hawkins Dance on October 28th. I asked the boy in my house what happened. He's managed to avoid several of these activities. His reply, "I am trying to be more social."

The most amazing photo I've ever taken . . .

A few weeks back we drove up Big Cottonwood Canyon to take in the fall colors. At the top of the canyon, Brighton, there is beautiful Silver Lake. It's an easy walk around the lake, so with camera in hand we headed off to the trail. I snapped photos all along the trail, but this one was by far the most amazingly stunning.

What to do with it??? Not sure, but I wanted the world to see it.

30 days flew by in September!

Family - Football - Homework - Housework - Work Work - Family - Football - Homework - Housework - Church Work - Family - Family - Family - Homework - Housework - Football - Family . . . .

That's my life and it's great!

Winning Team . . . . HUNTER!

The Hunter High School Wolverines finally got a win! Yes! The win over Granger was long awaited and well-deserved. Hunter led most of the game, but like last week the opposing team made a comeback. With only a few minutes left it looked like Granger would take the lead. But, a big Hunter defensive lineman intercepted a Granger pass and ran about 60 yard for a touchdown and sealed the win! The boys, the coaches, and the fans were so excited you'd thought they won the Super Bowl.

Willie had a great game. He moved back to right tackle since Michael's (center) foot has healed. The offensive line was the best it's been all season.

It was so nice to be part of the celebration for the winning team!

I am catching up, BLOG world!

September always begins with a celebration, our anniversary, September 1. This year marked 35 years of wedded-ness. We always try to do something with the kids to celebrate. So, Labor Day weekend we (our three-some family) headed out of the Salt Lake Valley, in the new family truckster, toward the Grand Tetons and Jellystone Park. We usually go to West Yellowstone for our anniversary celebration, but this year I wanted to do something different, so we booked a couple of nights at the Jackson Lake Lodge in the Tetons.

It was a beautiful drive through Parley's Canyon, through Evanston then Woodruff and Randolph, the beautiful Star Valley, and finally Jackson. The Snake River was busy with rafters and kyakers -- and so amazingly beautiful! We walked around Jackson, had dinner at Mountain High Pizza and then off to the lodge. About 10 minutes out of Jackson, I let karl and Willie how there was no TV or wireless access in our little "classic cottage". After the initial shock, they were cool about it. About that same time, we saw three bull moose in a meadow which definitely contributed to a great trip.

The Jackson Lake Lodge is your typical National Park lodge in many ways -- rustic, tucked away off the road in tall pine wooded area. A key feature of this lodge, however, is it's spectacular view through 60 foot high windows of the Tetons. We didn't catch the view until the next morning and it was spectacular! We also saw a cow moose and her baby in the grassy meadow 100 yards or so from the deck of the lodge.

After a late night milk shake at the diner in the lodge we headed to our cottage -- a 3 minute walk from the lodge. Our "classic cottage' was quaint, clean, and 1950-ish with a few updates (compfy matresses and a ceiling fan). When it was time for beddy-bye, Willie wondered what to do -- no TV. So, I suggested we play games --I started out by asking him his favorite color. We both had a laughing attack over that question and then just played some dumb "I am thinking of . . ." games while Karl snored away. It was an awesome late night whatever.

Sunday morning we headed to Jellystone via Colter Bay. We spent the day driving through the park, getting out at key points of interest and ending up at Old Faithful about 15 minutes before its blast off - it always amazes me. There is a new visitor's center at Old Faithful -- very modern and exceptionally fancy clean bathrooms. We also walked through the Old Faithful Inn, sat on the front deck for a few, and watched the people. Willie tried to get to the rooftop of the inn, but couldn't find the secret passageway.

We had dinner back at the Lodge and enjoyed the lobby (wi-fi) for a few hours and then back to the cottage.

We got up early Monday and headed home via the Jenny Lake area. It is definitely one of our "to dos" next time -- a boat trip acorss the lake and a hike back. We made it back home in time for football practice and homework! A great weekend!

Happy Birthday!

My mom's birthday is today! If she were here with us, she would be 81. On any given day, if I allow my thoughts to zoom in on the fact that she is not here, I have to redirect and move on.


Today is a day to celebrate mom's legacy and remember her spirt and zest for life. Not a day goes by without feeling some sense of Mom's love for family, hard work, and the gospel. Our times together in conversation and activity resonate in my mind and heart.

Life is so temporary! Love the possibilities and opportunities it presents through family, hard work, and the gospel, and you will find peace, happiness, and sense of purpose difficult to describe in words on a page.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

First 2 Weeks of School

So, the first 2 weeks of school have come to and end; and so has the month of August. Willie is a junior, 11th grade, soon to be 17, driving to and from school, taking honors and advanced classes, taking aviation, playing football, going to church, and trying to eat and sleep when he has time.

Teachers are piling on the homework. One teacher in particular assigned 200 vocabulary words to be written on the front of 3x5 cards with part of speech and definition on the back of the card. Oh my! In what century do we live 20th or 21st? This is such an old fashioned assignment! This course also comes with worksheets! ARRGGGG!!!!! I'll bet that every student in the class has a "hand held" device and most of the devices are likely to have a data plan. Does the teacher know that the students can google any word in split seconds and find the definition, the part of speech, multiple uses, synonyms, antonyms, listen to how the word is pronounced, and more? I am not sure.

Yesterday, I sat in a meeting with key decision-makers for the school district in which I work. A discussion ensued regarding a new platform for instruction called CANVAS. It is a pretty slick program that lends itself to online everything for classroom teachers -- posting assignments, connecting to online texts, message centers, storage space for student assignments, submitting assignments, assessment, and more. I was actually introduced to the program this summer as it was the instructional platform used for Willie's online PE course. (Yes, he plays football, basketball, tennis, and all those sports entail, but he still needs PE Fitness for Life and a graduation requirement -- a topic of debate for yet another day.)

I asked a really stupid question in the course of the meeting as to the status of the roll out of CANVAS to teachers. I was told that the building principals have the information and they can get their staff on board when they choose. I was also told that the "district" staff over the program will do training on CANVAS at school sites from now until November. Well, those responses didn't satisfy me. I suggested that we blast the information out to all teachers and let those who are techno savvy the opportunity to use it now, today, to make their instructional organization more 21st century now, at the beginning of the year. Granted, we do have a few old duffers in our classrooms, but largely a well-trained ready to go with something new corps of teachers.

This final inquiry of the meeting was met with silence. After some time to process, it was explained by many in the room that doing what I had suggested would only look like "one more thing" added on a teacher's plate; it would be overwhelming and stressful for them; it would be too much to move ahead without the support of the education association; and a few more weighty excuses.

So, my conclusion -- it will be another century or longer before our education system moves into the current century. Years form now students will be searching Walmart (the only place their sold) for 3x5 cards made in China (the only place their made).

I can't get too discouraged because students in one of our high schools each have an iTouch and I read about a new school in Davis County where all kids get notebooks (computer notebooks)!

Football Game #1 -- Loss to Layton

Although Hunter HS football team had nearly 300 yards of offense and some pretty good defense in Friday's game vs Layton HS, they couldn't get any points on the scoreboard. There were good plays and yardage and then there were fumbles and interceptions. Relatively new coaching staff, juniors and sophomores playing in their first ever varsity game, and not knowing what to expect, etc., all contributed to the loss. However, they looked pretty good, especially #74, and I am hopeful there will be some "W's" this season.

Next up -- Pleasant Grove on Friday, August 26, 7:00 p.m.

Willie quote of the day . . .

"I don't know about you, but I'm feeling pretty pumped up!"

Football game tomorrow -- starting offensive left tackle is my son, not the squirrel in the photo.

Fotoball Game Saturday!

Willie is excited for a football game. The Hunter Wolverines have been practicing since the first week of July with plays and drills. Before that, there was conditioning. Tomorrow is the blue and white game @ 7 PM and then next week a preseason game vs Layton HS. You can read a nice article on the 2011 season if you like.

Schedule
August 19 vs LAYTON, 7 PM
August 26 @ Pleasant Grove, 7 PM
September 2 vs WEST JORDAN, 7 PM
September 9 vs Davis, 8 PM (@ Weber State)
September 16 BYE
September 23 vs WEST, 7 PM
September 30, @ Granger, 3:30 PM
October 7 @ Kearns, 7 PM
October 13 vs TAYLORSVILLE, 7 PM
October 19 @ Viewmont, 7 PM

Sickly Summer Day

Willie is not doing so well today. He has a bad headache, upset stomach, a mild fever, and no energy. He missed football practice --said if he went he would "pass out and die". I paid a visit to the football coach to let him know about Willie. I know it's tough when all of the players aren't at practice, but I didn't want to risk having my son get sick at football.

So, he's been on the couch most of the day. Hopefully, a good night's sleep will bring on a quick recovery.

Summer is winding down -- it's been busy and good. Not much vacationing or anything like that, just nice days and evenings. Willie's been working on an online class all summer and reading a book for honor's English. He hasn't had much free time, but I think he's had a good summer. We are going to try to cap it off with an unannounced trip somewhere (I think I mentioned that in an earlier blog).

For now, I just want my boy to be his normal happy energetic self.

July 25, 2011

Celebrating "Pioneer Day" is really an ongoing activity in my life. I am a native Utahan largely due to my pioneer heritage. Back 164 years ago, Utah and surrounding territories were not the most beautiful and popular tourist attractions around. On the contrary, the countryside was dessert land with a salty lake in the middle. Go figure! The only people who came here (to Utah) were those seeking solace and peace from some kind of persecution. They must have been pretty desperate to come. Some were lucky enough to ride in a covered wagon or later on (after 1869), they came by train. However, most of the early settlers pulled a cart and walked their way here. Some walked 1200-1300 miles from the most western point of civilization at that time. The Utah territory was an unknown, and to walk here -- through Nebraska, Wyoming, and over the Rocky Mountains -- pretty tall commitment and solid dedication.

Flash forward to today -- the pioneer legacy has withstood generations of time! The once forlorn desolate dessert land has truly "blossomed as a rose" (Brigham Young). I love this place (after all it is the "right place"). I have traveled near and far and each time I return to the Salt Lake Valley, I sigh and feel that sense of emotion that there is "no place like home"! I love the valley, the mountains, the salty lake, the buildings and neighborhoods, the people, and just about everything!

The painting in this post is call "Zion, Ho" by Minerva Teichert. It features a pioneer woman who turns and exclaims her excitement to those who follow at seeing the Salt Lake Valley for the first time! This message is never ending. I feel like doing the same when I get that glimpse of the valley from on high.

Friday, Willie and I took the afternoon to do some pioneering on our own. We visited the DUP Museum, stopped by the old Council Hall across from the Capitol, drove through the "avenues", explored the City Cemetery, viewed the valley from the University of Utah, and stopped by the zoo for a churro. Our activity, although a little weird, only confirmed my great love of the Salt Lake Valley and the blessing I have of living here. I will tell all who think about living here to come! It is amazing, those who settled here were truly inspired!

What happened to June?

So, it's July 5. Not a significant day, but clearly five days since the month of June ended. What happened to June?

School ended
Work goes on -- busiest time of year
Annie and Ross in a new house
Yard work and flower planting -- my house and Dad's
Fed the missionaries, not just 2 but 65 plus their mission president and other leaders
Willie's Eagle Court of Honor
Counselor conference at Murray High
Visits to the cemetery
Preparation for ASCA conference
Willie to Youth Conference
Father's Day
Karl microbiology class and lab
House cleaning -- my house and Dad's
USU basketball position camp -- two nights away with Willie
ASCA Conference in Seattle -- 3 presentations
Willie week-long basketball team camp in St. George
Shavy Jones
Children and grandchildren and nieces and nephews

Today, a day off! I am still in my PJs sitting here catching up on a few things. Willie is at summer seminary. Karl is at work. The sprinklers are on. Just a nice day to do nothing. I am just going to sit back and enjoy!

Observations at USU

So, I am currently sitting in the Taggart Student Center on the campus of Utah State University. Willie is here doing what he loves most, playing basketball (USU b-ball camp). This, however, is a different sort of camp where most of the participants are pretty good high school players who want to get better at their position -- post, perimeter, guard. I am spending my time wandering around the campus and making a pretty good attempt at getting some computer work done. Summer is a big part of the school year for me -- a time to get ready for a new year -- professional learning themes and activities, full-year calendar, materials and resources to support kids, and so on. I do a lot of writing, and thinking, and reading, and analyzing, and then pulling things together.

I have a table set up as my work station on the far east end of the second floor of the Taggart Student Center. Wow! There is a lot going on this week on campus -- high school cheer camp, high school leadership camp (student body officers), EFY camp (Especially for Youth), a conference for some kind of college administrators, and of course basketball camp.

I am listening to a group of high school leaders discuss "Snowball". I am not sure what it is, but it involves dancing and the group can't decide if it should be girl's choice or not. Oops, now the subject changed to what the group is going to do on the leadership camp variety show later this evening.

I love the opportunity to break away form the office, spend some time with my son, and do a little of uninterrupted work, too.

By the way, the Taggart Center is names for a former president of USU, Glen L Taggart. He was a pretty amazing individual. Click on his name and read an article written about him in the Ensign Magazine some 20 years ago. Glen Taggart is from Lewiston, Ut, born around the same time as my step-grandmother Frances. I am sure they knew each other -- Frances, a USU grad, was always very high on what the institution had to offer. There are many Eccles buildings on campus. Needless to say, the Eccles family has left their "money" mark on nearly every public college campus in the state.

Enough for now!

On our way to USU we saw a moose!

So we were just coming out of Sardine Canyon, not quite to the Wellsville exit, when low and behold, we saw a moose in a field on the right hand side of the road!!!!! I pulled over to the side and we watched. It crossed a narrow road to our right. We turned down the road to get a closer look. The moose went into a yard and some barking dogs scared it back out onto the road. We followed it and it passed in front of us twice! We tried to take a few pictures (with the phone), but it just kept moving. It was a youngster with his horns just starting to grow. How cool is that??!!!!

Eagle Scout!

29 merit badges + 20 plus nights camping + Super Scout Saturdays + hikes and bike rides + Jubilees and Courts of Honor + a bunch of other stuff and a project = Eagle Scout

(Willie is pinning a mentor pin on Grandpa.)

The Court of Honor was nice. Family and friends from the ward came to support Willie. The refreshments were yummy.

Okay, it's time to go back to school!

So I got home from work Tuesday evening and my son greeted me in this weird attire. He's trying to grow a few inches, so I suggested he wear a neck brace to try to stretch his neck a little. It was so much fun wearing the neck brace, he decided to add a nacho libre mask, an extra small junior jazz jersey, a sweat band, a crazy hat, football glove and arm guard, a thumb brace, hula lei, sun glasses, a boondoggle thing, and a lacrosse stick.

I think he's had way too much summer vacation time -- two days is too much. Time to go back to school!

School's Out!

Oh my gosh! I am so glad this school year has come to a close! It's been crazy, like mentally ill crazy, like out of control crazy, like more crazy than you can ever imagine. I have been a professional educator for some 33 years and I've seen all kinds of situations and worked with many, many students and their families, but this school year tops them all -- positives and not so positive experiences with colleagues, staff, kids, and parents.

The best part of my work is clearly working hard every day of each school year to make a difference for the 29,000+ secondary students in GSD. This school year my department introduced a tidy little planning guide for students and their parents. I think it is just about the best little planning guide around. Although it has been in draft form all year, it is excellent. I have had many opportunities to share it with students, their parents, staff, and community people. All reports indicate it has been very helpful in providing information on student planning and on all of the options and opportunities available to students in our district.

Ther is much work to do this summer to get things ready for 2011-2012 school year!