Quote from Melanie

The Patriot Post
Founders' Quote Daily

"Our country is in danger, but not to be despaired of. Our enemies are numerous and powerful; but we have many friends, determining to be free, and heaven and earth will aid the resolution. On you depend the fortunes of America. You are to decide the important question, on which rest the happiness and liberty of millions yet unborn. Act worthy of yourselves."

-- Joseph Warren (Boston Massacre Oration, 6 March 1775)

Reference: Life and Times of Joseph Warren, Frothingham (435)

The Buzzin’ Joneses

Dear Family,

We hope you are all having a great Christmas Season. It seems like we just had Christmas, and here it is again. Why is it that when you are little Christmas can't get here soon enough, and then when you are older it seems like it comes quicker and quicker every year. Does that make me old?

November was a good month for us. We were excited to have Grandma Jones come and stay with us for a week. She was great help to Jim. They got a lot of problem solving done and did a lot of extracting. Mary was, as always, was glad to see her. She sure loves her grandparents.

We have sold some honey. Jim sold 62 barrels worth of honey to Barkmans and then has been selling buckets and tubs of honey as well. We are thankful that the price of honey has gone back up a little bit. We are also thankful for all of those people who love to eat honey. Jim has wrapped up the extracting part of the business for the year. He is currently moving the bees and getting them ready to load up and take to Bakersfield this year. We are a little bit nervous about leaving them unsecured in Bakersfield but at least the diesels will get to go straight through Vegas and will not have to deal with the "Spaghetti Bowl." It looks like the bees will be taking up residence in California some time next week. Then he will have to make a couple of trips down there before Christmas to check on them and feed them.

Mary has become Lightening McQueen this past month--she is no longer Pocahontas. Jim told her the other day that maybe she should be Sally because Sally was a girl car and McQueen was a boy car. She gave him kind of a blank look. I told him that maybe you had to older than 2 to discern a boy car from a girl car. Mary has quite a sense of humor. She has begun teasing me about rice pudding. Whenever things get a little dull for her, she will come up to me and say, "Rice pudding, Mom!" I tell her "yuck" and she laughs and follows me around the house saying, "Rice pudding!" She gets the same reaction from her Dad. We tell her that her Grandmas and Grandpas love it. She thinks she loves it too, but she has never had it. The other day she asked me to make her some. I refused of course. I told her that I never wanted my house to smell like that, but she was more than welcome to have her Grandparents make it for her. One of Mary's highlights this past month was getting to see Santa Clause. We primed her by telling her that he would ask her what she wanted for Christmas. I said, "So what are you going to tell Santa that you want for Christmas?" She thought for a second and said, "Something." And so she did. She is going to be hard to please this Christmas isn't she?

Christene is six months old. She has begun babbling very loudly--even during Relief Society. She is getting stronger and we are looking forward to her crawling. We believe that she is getting some teeth because she chews on everything. She sure is a happy baby! We love her and her sister!

We had a snowstorm the other day and went out and made a snowman. We had to use a bucket to pack the snow in because it was too powdery to make a real snowman. Mary has wanted to make a snowman since August when she saw the pictures of the snowmen we made last year. She got her wish. She played in the snow while Christene slept in her stroller all bundled up like they do in Denmark. Christene even had her Danish hat on that Grandma and Grandpa T. bought on their trip over there a few years ago. She sure had a red nose when she woke up.

We love you all and hope that you have a great Christmas. We are thankful for the real meaning of Christmas.

Love,

The Nephites

Will Rogers Sayings

Will Rogers, who died in a plane crash with Wylie Post in 1935, was probably the greatest political sage this country has ever known. Enjoy the following:

1. Never slap a man who's chewing tobacco.

2. Never kick a cow chip on a hot day.

3. There are two theories to arguing with a woman...neither works.

4. Never miss a good chance to shut up.

5. Always drink upstream from the herd.

6. If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.

7. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it and put it back in your pocket.

8. There are three kinds of men: The ones that learn by reading. The few who learn by observation. The rest of them have to pee on the electric fence and find out for themselves.

9. Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.

10. If you're riding' ahead of the herd, take a look back every now and then to make sure it's still there.

11. Lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier'n puttin' it back.

12. After eating an entire bull, a mountain lion felt so good he started roaring. He kept it up until a hunter came along and shot him. The moral: When you're full of bull, keep your mouth shut.

About Growing Older

First ~ Eventually you will reach a point when you stop lying about your age and start bragging about it.

Second ~ The older we get, the fewer things seem worth waiting in line for.

Third ~ Some people try to turn back their odometers. Not me, I want people to know “why” I look this way. I've traveled a long way and some of the roads weren't paved.

Fourth ~ When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to youth, think of Algebra.

Fifth ~ You know you are getting old when everything either dries up or leaks.

Sixth ~ I don't know how I got over the hill without getting to the top.

Seventh ~ One of the many things no one tells you about aging is that it is such a nice change from being young.

Eighth ~ One must wait until evening to see how splendid the day has been.

Ninth ~ Being young is beautiful, but being old is comfortable.

Tenth ~ Long ago when men cursed and beat the ground with sticks, it was called witchcraft. Today it's called golf

And finally ~ If you don't learn to laugh at trouble, you won't have anything to laugh at when you are old.

The Butcher, the Baker, and the Mammograph Taker

Boy, it seems like it was just last week that I wrote our newsletter. Oh wait, it was.

I can't believe how the year has flown by and that it's December already. We were able to have a very enjoyable Thanksgiving with the Trauntvein clan who were also willing to open their home up to my parents. My siblings weren't able to get together until Sunday but it was our turn to be with them so Mom and Dad were gracious enough to allow us to bring them with. Thanks!

My sister-in-law Julie came up from Arizona with her kids so we spent lots of time playing with them. Julie and I stamped and made LOTS of cards for Julie to take home. We had several late nights getting projects done!!!! I also finally had an appointment with my new Dr. (a neurologist) Hopefully we can get some help for my headaches now.

Eric is stuck on the basement. He's been trying to figure out how to do the sheet rock in windowsills???? He has been able to spend some time out in the West Desert though, which always makes him a little happier.

The kids are doing well. We went to the Festival of Lights and they loved that.

Jason has been doing a lot of help with cooking. By the time I get home from work my head is usually really bad, but Jason has been a HUGE help. He's been learning a lot of things about cooking and helping.

David is still working hard in school. It's not easy but he is sure trying. He is a very good friend though, and has made lots of new friends in our neighborhood.

Maddie is a big personality packed into a tiny body. She is always saying something that has me laughing. Her teacher has said how much she enjoys her for the same reason. She has been doing a lot of reading to her younger brother and cousins. What a sweetie!

AJ is growing up. I'm not quite sure that I am ready. He and dad continue to have their Tuesday Wal-Mart routine. Last week he allowed his Aunt Julie to take him instead, but he informed me that she did it wrong. They didn't get a sticker or a "tookie” Next year he'll be in kindergarten so I'm not sure if the routine will continue for much longer.

We are mostly ready for Christmas. Just a few things left to do. Still, I'm sure that December will be a busy month.

We love you guys!

Eric, Amy and kids

Oh! Hi! Oh!

 Where does the time go? We had a great time at Howard and Melanie's for Thanksgiving. They are all so wonderful! Melanie is a fabulous cook and we enjoyed the Thanksgiving meal to its fullest. The kids had a great time playing with each other. I don't think I ever saw my kids unless we were going somewhere. 

Howard and Melanie took us to some neat places. We went to Newport, Rhode Island where we walked on a "Cliff Walk" behind some beautiful old mansions. They also took us to Mystic, Connecticut where we went to Mystic Seaport and Aquarium which we all thought was really cool. By the end of our time, none of us wanted to go home. Thanks Howard, Melanie, Braden, Benjamin, and Mikaela. Siovhan, we missed seeing you there.

Michael just went on a campout with Todd last weekend where they went on a 25 mile bike ride. He is also singing with his school choir at our town's Christmas Homecoming this weekend. He is preparing for his recital on the 16th and will be playing "We Three Kings" for one piece and then is playing a duet with Tyler called "Il est Ne" (or French Carol). To prepare the kids for their recital, and to serve the community, their teacher has arranged for the children to perform their pieces at a rest home for the elderly this Saturday. I think it will be a great experience for the kids involved.

Tyler has been working hard at school and practicing piano. He is really enjoying piano and really loves to practice. I quite enjoy hearing the kids play Christmas music and do it well. He is getting excited for his performance and also his recital. He will be playing "Carol of the Bells" and also his duet with Michael "Il est Ne". We really got lucky finding the teacher we did. All three kids really like her.

Emily has also been busy with piano, and is getting excited for her very first recital. She will be playing "Deck the Halls" and also "Ode to Joy" which will be a duet with her piano teacher. She thinks it's pretty cool to be able to play with her. Emily has her Christmas music performance with her 2nd grade next Tuesday the 12th. It's always fun to go to those.

Hailey is now one year old as of today the 5th of December. We had a little birthday party for her at Melanie's so Hailey could have family around to celebrate. Melanie was wonderful and ordered her a Hello Kitty cake for us so everyone could watch her "enjoy" her first birthday cake. She opened a few presents out there and will be opening a few more today when everyone is home this evening. She is walking quite well and is now trying to run which she is not doing quite well and has a little bruise on her forehead to show for it. She is so much fun and loves to giggle at the weirdest things and call for our two kitties. She is a "momma's girl" although she calls me "dad".

Todd is busy with work and scouts as always. His work had Santa come last Saturday for kids of employees. It was really nice because you made an appointment so you didn't have to wait in any line. They also had a photographer there for a family picture (for free) and refreshments afterward. It was nice to do that instead of going to some mall and waiting an hour or two in line.

As you all know by now, I am coming to Utah for a few days. I found a flight for $59 each way that literally fell into my lap while on the internet. They had one ticket left at this price so I jumped on it and Todd was gracious enough to say I could go at this crazy time of year. Todd has a pretty crazy weekend as things keep popping up on the calendar. At least he won't have a baby in tow as Hailey will be coming with me. I can't wait to see anyone who can come down to Nephi on Sunday afternoon the 10th.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We love you all!

Love,

Todd, Amy, Michael, Tyler, Emily & Hailey

Colorful Popcorn Bars

14 cups popped popcorn

1/2 cup margarine

1/4 cup light corn syrup

1 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 cup nuts of your choice

1/2 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces

1/2 cup dried cranberries or other dried

fruit, such as currants, raisins, or

chopped dates or apricots

Place the popcorn in a very large bowl; set aside. Combine the margarine, corn syrup, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Stirring constantly, bring to a boil over medium heat; boil 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla, nuts, candy, and fruit. Pour over the popcorn and toss to coat.With greased hands, carefully press the mixture into a greased 9" x 13" baking pan. Let cool, then cut into bars.

Merry Christmas to All!

You are loved!

Streusel Coffee Cake for Breakfast

Moist, buttery, and packed inside and out with brown sugar streusel, this coffee cake is as versatile as it is delicious. You can keep individually wrapped slices in the freezer ready to pop in a brown bag lunch for school, a hike, or a holiday road trip. The recipe itself is short and sweet, but it's still a great one for aspiring bakers, with lots of measuring, mixing, and other fun cooking jobs.

Cinnamon Crunch Topping

1 1/2 cups pecans or walnuts

1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

2 tablespoons flour

1 teaspoon cinnamon

3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Sour Cream Cake

2 3/4 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 3/4 cups sugar

3 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup sour cream

1/2 cup milk

Sweet Glaze

1 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar

2 tablespoons milk

Method:

Butter a 9- by 13-inch cake pan. Dust the pan with flour and remove the excess by turning the pan upside down and tapping the bottom. Heat the oven to 350 degrees. To prepare the Cinnamon Crunch Topping, first coarsely chop the nuts, or have your child put them in a rsealable plastic bag and lightly tap them with a rolling pin to break them into pieces. Then combine the nuts, brown sugar, flour, and until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. To make the Sour Cream Cake, sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a medium bowl and set it aside. Using an electric mixer, preferably a large stand mixer, cream the butter on medium-high speed, gradually adding the sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the lemon zest and vanilla extract and blend briefly. Whisk together the sour cream and milk. Mix about a third of the mixture into the creamed ingredients until smooth. Then blend in about a third of the flour mixture. Continue alternately beating in the liquid and dry ingredients by thirds. Spread half the batter in the prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle half the topping on it, pressing it lightly into the batter. Spread the remaining batter evenly over the topping. Then cover that layer with the remaining topping. Bake the coffee cake on the center oven rack for about 40 minutes, until nicely browned. A toothpick inserted at the center should come out clean. Place the pan on a wire rack and let the cake cool completely. For the glaze, combine the confectioners' sugar and milk in a large bowl and whisk until smooth and suitable to drizzle. If needed, you can make the glaze thinner or thicker by adding a little more milk or sugar, respectively. Use a spoon to drizzle the glaze on the cooled coffee cake. Makes 12 or more servings.

The Fantastic Five

Holiday Greetings to the family from David, Bree, Erin and Donovin. 

We are planning on spending Christmas up in Nephi and the kids are really looking forward to seeing Grandma and Grandpa so soon again. 

The Family had a wonderful time Thanksgiving and really enjoyed seeing everyone they did and missed every one who was not there.

David is doing very well at his new job, and is now working a regular Monday through Friday week so he has his weekends with the kids. 

Bree is progressing well in treatment and is planning on staying as long as it takes. AnnMarie is familiar with the program she is in and says it is really one of the best in the State. They use a cognitive approach, changing how people think, instead of trying to just change their behavior. 

The kids are really missing mom, but she talks to them every day, so they know she is still there for them. David has made a heroic effort in filling up the void not having mom here has left. He loves being a dad and is very good at it. Lucky for us all, change is a constant state in the universe, and, every now and then in even goes in the right direction. Right now it is going in the right direction for the St. George Four.

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Scandinavian Christmas Cake

(This was a favorite when I used to make desserts from other countries for Cultural Refinement lessons in Relief Society. Julie says it is like a cake that she had in Russia.)

Scandinavian Christmas Cake (Iceland/Denmark/Sweden)
Ingredients for Cake:
1 c butter
1 c sugar
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1 tsp vanilla flavorings
4 c shifted flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 c milk
Cream butter until soft; gradually add sugar. Continue mixing until very creamy. Stir in eggs and vanilla. Sift flour with baking powder and salt; add alternately with milk to butter mixture. The dough should be firm but not stiff; it can be chilled for easy handling. Divide dough into seven equal portions. Roll each portion out thinly (about 1/4-Inch) on upside-down pan; trim edges. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until lightly brown at the edges. Remove from oven; slide cake off bottom of pan. Cool on wire rack. Repeat until all seven layers are baked. The layers can be baked on parchment or waxed paper which has been placed on a cookie sheer. Layers will be hard like a butter cookie. Spread a generous amount of filling between layers. If desired, drizzle glaze on top and let run over the edges. Yield: 14 servings.

Filling:
Use apricot, raspberry or plum jam
Glaze (Glaze is optional):
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter
1 Tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla
Place powdered sugar in a bowl. Melt the butter. Pour into sugar. Add other ingredients and mix until smooth. Drizzle over top of layered cake.

OR may make the filling as follows:
2 lb dried prunes
1 c sugar
1/2 tsp cardamom seed (optional)
1 tsp vanilla flavoring
1/4 tsp salt
Cover prunes with water. Cook until tender; drain, reserving 1/2-cup liquid. Remove pits; put prunes through grinder or cut into fine pieces. Add prune liquid, sugar and cardamom seed to prunes. Cook until filling is as thick as jam. Cool; add vanilla and salt.

The Old Folks At Home

Thanksgiving was quite wonderful. It was filled with my favorite things: food and family. And yes, I do like the noise of family talking all at once and of kids playing. We had visits from David, Bree, Barbara, Erin and Donovin. Eric, Amy and family, AnnMarie, Brandon and family, Julie, Jim and girls, Siovhan and Amy J’s parents. It was a good time.

Usually Jim and Julie spend that holiday in Idaho so it was nice that they were here. It was nice to have some in-law folks to enjoy. That made the day even brighter. Of course, when you eat at my house you work yourself to death. Barbara made the pumpkin pies and

worked all day helping Dad and I get things ready. Amy made fruit salad, her mom made the yams (and helped clean up afterward), AnnMarie made the rolls, and Julie made apple and chocolate pies. YUM! It was all good.

Just before Thanksgiving, Howard and Siovhan drove down to Nephi for a short visit. We really enjoyed the visit and were glad to see Howard again. It was so nice that he could fly here to Utah to spend time with Siovhan.

We also had a great time at Toren’s baptism. Gramps and Grammy had the privilege of giving baptism talks. It was great to see Toren take the step of choosing baptism. He was happy about it but had become sick with a sore throat just that day. Shawn and LHT gave him a blessing prior to leaving for church. It worked and he felt better so he could enjoy his special day. The Howard’s, Joneses, Siovhan and LHT and Myrna Rae all gathered and had turkey at Shawn’s and Kimberly’s afterward.

I have always loved Christmas! It seems like the perfect way to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ—in the dead of winter when there is little else to be joyous about. We have been told that the Savior was actually born in April, the same month (33-years later) that he died. But the dead of winter is when some of us need something to celebrate and something to look forward to. It isn’t just because I was born in December, it is because of the Christmas Spirit that fills the hearts of all Christians (and some who are not). The reason that I think the month needs a celebration is because it is always so very cold and, unlike the Trauntvein family, I have never liked being cold and would never, on purpose, choose to be outside on a chilly day. I have, from time to time, been persuaded by one of you to indulge in a winter activity. I enjoy being with the family but I am always glad to be back indoors where it is warm. I have no idea where I got this dislike of being cold from because I don’t remember any relatives who complained about being outside making snowmen and throwing snowballs and having a great time. I didn’t like getting on a hay wagon to go caroling either. I was always just persuaded by peer pressure to participate. No one else minds the cold. Just me. Maybe I am really an alien. Maybe my story about my guardian angel getting directions mixed up and eaving me in Utah instead of Hawaii is really true.

I wonder if Garth remembers the time when Santa came to the community center in Price in the evening. It was dark but was probably just 6 or 7 p.m. Anyway, we stood in a long line and I complained all the way there. Garth was happy with the candy, a bag full, and an orange and peanuts, but I was COLD and I did not want to do the Santa wait the next year. “Please don’t make me go!” I preferred the Christmas

community carol sing. It was indoors. So I haven’t changed, have I? By the way, this year, in Nephi, the kids got oranges and fruit roll-ups. Somebody was more interested in health than in fun.

Dad, however, is a snowperson in clothes. When we first moved to Nephi, our neighbor, Joey Olpin, came to our house and brought a jacket of her husband’s to give to Dad. I told her that he had a jacket, he just didn’t wear it. I actually had to show her the jackets in the hall closet. “Then tell him to wear one for me,” she said. She said that watching him shovel snow in his shirtsleeves was too much to expect of anyone. It made her cold just to watch him. He didn’t repent, however, now he wears a coat but he didn’t back then and he really did have three or four.

Dad remembers sledding, throwing snowballs and playing outdoors for hours. I guess that is why he always talked me into the tubing excursion every year. That and the fact that I wanted all of you kids to be normal and not like me. The best part was watching you all have fun in the snow. The very best part was having hot chili and hot chocolate afterwards. Oh, and you can all tell stories about going to cut down our very own tree. Let’s see, there was the time one of you fell down the mountain with the tree. Wait, that was Dad. I know there were other misadventures. Now my joy is my fake tree. Dad just gets it out of the box and puts it back in the box. No cold, no sneezing (from fir-fever), just green tree today and boxed tomorrow. I did do the tree thing all by myself one year. That was the year that Dad was in the hospital after having his gallbladder removed. I did the whole thing. I even got it in the stand. Of course, I remember that Shawn, Melanie, Todd and Eric were helpers also. AnnMarie was just a baby. She had been born in May and it was December. That would have made her 8-months old. Aunt Renee and Uncle Max came up to Provo and watched you kids during the surgery. They took you to Richard’s apartment. Grandpa Trauntvein sat with me at the hospital. Grandma Trauntvein was sick herself and had her gallbladder removed a short time later. Dad did get to be home for Christmas but he was still not feeling well.

I have always, at least since I was a girl, loved the carol/poem below. In those days of girlhood when I had hoped to be a poet/artist/dancer, I learned to enjoy the work of Longfellow. Grandmother Smith, Aunt Renee, Dad and Mom Edna had all learned works of his in school in the “old days” when people actually had to memorize poems. I did not know, however, that there was a bit about the Civil War included in the poem. Remember when we visited Longfellow’s home when we were on our 1976 trip? It was a U.S.D.A. property. I was in awe then—I was actually in the same place one of my writing heroes had lived. It is across the street from the LDS chapel. In fact, the church is built on property that once belonged to Longfellow when he was alive.

Christmas Bells

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old, familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet

The words repeat

Of peace on earth, good will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come,

The belfries of all Christendom

Had rolled along

The unbroken song

Of peace on earth, good will to men!

Till, ringing, singing on its way

The world revolved from night to day,

A voice, a chime,

A chant sublime

Of peace on earth, good will to men!

Then from each black, accursed mouth

The cannon thundered in the South,

And with the sound

The Carols drowned

Of peace on earth, good will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;

‘There is no peace on earth,’ I said;

‘For hate is strong,

And mocks the song

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!’_

Then pealed the bells more loud and

deep:

‘God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!

The Wrong shall fail,

The Right prevail,

With peace on earth, good-will to men!’

Henry Wardsworth Longfellow

The Magnificent Seven

This is a very busy time of year for the Howards (as well as everyone else). We are preparing for a violin concert, a band concert, two choir concerts, a dance recital, scout activities (cub and new scouts), a YW activity, two ward parties (we have been invited to the old ward as "special guests" for an award of some sort), work parties, ward choir concert, and I am one of the Christmas talks on the 24th. We are all still involved in all of the regular things such as school, piano, violin, dance, scouts, etc. So far we are all healthy and mostly sane. We will see many of you during the holidays.

Christmas Card Game to Make and Play

 A Go fish game using pictures from the nativity including the baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the angel, shepherds, wise-men, and more.

Object of the Game: Get the most sets of four to win.

Preparation: You will need eight sets of four cards each for a total of 32 nativity cards. If you have a large family/group print/make two sets and combine them into a larger deck. Christmas items, such as toys, trees and ornaments could be copied from coloring books or from coloring pages to print from an online source. A religious set could be made using drawings of the baby Jesus, wise men and etc.

Deal each player four cards and place the remaining cards face down. Each player takes a turn asking another player for a specific card. (Players can only ask for cards from a set that they already have a card of.) If the person has any cards of that set they must give up all of them to the person who asked for them. If the person doesn't have the card they're being asked for they say, "Keep Trying" and the player then draws a card from the stack and their turn is over. When a player has a complete set of four cards they show the rest of the group and place them in front of them on the table or floor. Play continues until all the cards have been placed down. If a player has no more cards they draw one from the deck. If the deck is gone the person must wait until the game is over. Example: There are three players. Player one has a card with the baby Jesus and asks player three if they have any cards with the baby Jesus. Player three doesn't have any and says, "Keep Trying" player one draws a card. Player two (who also has a card with the baby Jesus) asks player one if they have any, which player one gives to player two. Player two's turn is over. Play continues until all the sets of cards have been placed down. The player with the most sets wins. Notes: You can print the cards on card stock, cut them out, and then laminate them so they will last longer. They're also easier to play with when they're not rough.

For younger children you can remove half the cards (in sets) from the deck and only deal two cards per player.

Christmas Workshop

Star of David

To make a star to hang in a window or on a Christmas tree, you will need: newspapers, acrylic paint, old plastic lid, paintbrush, 6 craft or ice-cream sticks, glue, and string. Cover the workplace with newspapers. Pour some paint into the plastic lid. Paint one side of each stick; let dry. Then paint the remaining sides; let dry. Glue three sticks together to form a triangle; let dry. Repeat with the remaining three sticks. Lay one triangle down. Place the other one, facing in the opposite direction, on top of it, forming a six-pointed star. Glue the two triangles together where they touch; let dry. Attach a piece of string for hanging.

Sandpaper Gingerbread People

To make gingerbread people to decorate packages, cards, or a Christmas tree, you will need: gingerbread people cookie cutters, medium sandpaper, pencil, crayons, a cookie sheet, an oven (use with an adult’s help), and a hole punch and string for hanging (optional). Place the cookie cutter on the back of the sandpaper and trace around it. Repeat until the paper is filled with traced figures, then cut them out. Pushing down hard with the crayons, color the details and decorations on the gingerbread people until the sandpaper barely shows through (see illustration). Place them right side up on the cookie sheet. Ask an older person to heat the oven to 250° F (120° C). When it is heated, place the cookie sheet on the center rack. Keep the oven door open and watch for a few seconds as the crayon melts. Have the older person remove the cookie sheet from the oven, then let your gingerbread people cool. If you are going to hang them, punch a hole near the top of each head and attach a piece of string.

The Runnin’ Utes

Sorina quote, “holy smoke this is good!” In reference to a cherry cordial chocolate she ate this past month. She was helping her mom put together neighbor treats for Christmas and we had a few extra cherry cordial chocolates. She asked to eat one and it must have been her first ever because she really enjoyed it.

Toren quote, “Dane is the one who usually hurts me.” In reference to the Holy Ghost talk Grandpa Trauntvein gave at his baptism. Grandpa had asked him who he went to ask for help when he got hurt. He answered first dad, then mom. Grandpa asked him if went to Brigitta or Dane and he shook his head no and muttered to his dad the above quote.

Dane quote,” I’m as tall as my mom!” Yes, it’s official. When I took him into the doctor, we were both measured and we’re the same height. That means he’ll probably be taller than me by his birthday, because he’s been growing fast.

Brigitta: quote “The soon coming Christmas Picture titled Harmony is not published with the consent of the actress, Brigitta. She is n no way responsible for the outcome. The blame is issued to the photographer and other participants.” That quote was expressed with sincerity from the renowned actress. Please keep this picture out of public view, as the issued photo is a direct assault and should not be tolerated. This month Brigitta has “no comment”, but as her conscience I know the story. On November 22, 2006 she was……NOT GOING TO LET ANYONE KNOW WHAT HAPPENED THEN!!! MUWAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Good luck! Have a nice day!

Kimberly quote, “I am glad to have December 2nd over.” It was a very busy day with a Ward Breakfast, Sorina’s Tea Party and Toren’s Baptism. Toren was sick on his baptism day and he struggled through the day. Grandpa Trauntvein and Dad gave him a blessing just before his baptism and he did really well. It was a wonderful event for him and for the rest of us to attend. We enjoyed the company of the Howard’s, Jones’, Grandparent Trauntvein’s, Siovhan and the Caldwell’s, Wilson’s, Grandma Nonie and many friends. Shawn, well he’s been a little busy trying to get some work done on his class. So, maybe more from him next month.

The Boston Baked Boltons

Okay, so the months don't have any shorter days this year than they did last year, where do those days seem to have disappeared to?

Siovhan spent some fun days with her Dad the week before Thanksgiving. When Howard’s dad, Ken, came over to visit, he would drag Howard to all of Ken’s friend’s homes and Howard would be at the mercy of his dad and his dad’s time. I teased Howard about being just like his father. He kind of got the message and he and Siovhan did a few fun things together, as well as seeing many different people that we have met over the years. Siovhan is gearing up for finals. We hope she does well. Siovhan will be home for a very brief visit this year. She arrives late at night on the 22nd of December and will be arriving in Salt Lake on the evening of the 2nd of January. We will take all the time we are given!

Braden spent several hours with the band at our High School’s Super Bowl. He wasn’t thrilled to spend eight hours (four traveling, four practicing and playing) with the band. He had a good time and was happy that Milford High School’s football team won our Region’s State Football Super Bowl. It was a bright, sunny, but very cold day. He was glad to come home to a warm bed.

Ben is still Ben (aren’t you glad?). He is at times an enigma. He likes to be at school. He loves to ride the bus. He even likes to do school. He still doesn’t understand why they have to have teachers. He and his friends could learn so much more, at their level, if they didn’t have teachers. He is Mr. Social and has many friends.

Mikaela is doing well. She is reaching out to a girl a year older than her and trying to get her to come to church activities with her. It is good to have missionary minded children. It teaches me to come out of my shell. Mikaela spoke in Primary again. She ends up speaking every few weeks. I wondered why that was, and found out that she volunteers. What a good girl!

Howard is on an extensive trip. He has been in Brazil and Chile. He is on his way to Australia, then Shanghai, China. He will be home in time to rest to gear up for the Christmas vacation. Tyco is going through a lot of changes. They are selling off some of their company and will be downsizing. We are awaiting word to find out what will be done with Howard’s job. They are taking one of his employees and moving them to Florida, so Howard will need to hire another person to take that place in the IS department. He looks forward to the changes, where as I am nervous about them..

We hope that you all have a wonderful month and will take the time each day to read some of the scriptural accounts of Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection. Draw close to Him this holiday season and you will be blessed beyond what you can imagine.

Love, The Boston Baked Boltons

Rocky Mountain “Hi!”

November and December were/are great months.

Ryan is recovering well. When we get more than two minutes, we'll upload some pictures and send them to you all.

Kirsten is having a minor surgery on Wednesday, Dec. 7 for scar revisions. Minor deal.

Work is going well for Jared. November and December are always crazy because people are trying to use up what's left of their insurance.

Whitney gets to play Mary in church (her class is doing the nativity for the rest of primary) on Sunday. She is very excited. She also has her first school program on Friday.

Emma is very much looking forward to becoming a Sunbeam. Her class has been able to sit in singing time the past couple weeks.

Tennessee was a lot of fun during Thanksgiving break. Great weather. Pretty trees. We even got to see the Rockettes perform at the Grand Ole Opry.

Oh, by the way, Jared was just made Elder's Quorum President. He's sick and nervous every morning. He's the type that loves one-on-one attention, not oneon-dozens/crowd attention.

So life is good, fun, crazy and stressful.

Happy HOLIDAYS!

Boston Baked Boltons

Yes, I delayed getting my newsletter stuff in and it is my fault that the newsletter is due. I just kept waiting for better stuff to write about, but unfortunately, nothing novel was happening in our lives, just the same old diary stuff: get up, go to school, do homework, practice musical instruments, eat, go to sleep, etc.

Siovhan got into the BYU Broadcast Journalism Program. She is currently studying hard for the tests that come before finals. She was laid off at Trade Select and hasn’t decided if that was a blessing or trial. She wants to be available to work at KBYU if given the opportunity.

Braden made it on the High Honor Roll. It has been something he worked hard for. He tried out for the Milford High Orchestra on Monday and will find out later today if he did well enough to become a member. He loves Geometry and tries to make his mom crazy by making all things number and angle related. The show NUMB3RS is his favorite show. He is still the Troop’s Senior Patrol Leader.

Ben is doing well in school. He loves being an eighth grader. He has become even more social than in past years. His dad frequently reminds him that the days are not revolving around him, that there are other family members with needs and wants. Ben often tells him that the sooner that we all realize it is all about him, the much better off our lives will be. (Of course he says that with a smile, but we know he means it!) He is still taking guitar lessons and we have seen some great improvement.

Mikaela is a smart girl, but she is very much like her dad: she loves to be outside and hates doing homework. She has never had a teacher who didn’t love her, and this teacher is no exception. The teacher loves to tease Mikaela and Mikaela doesn’t always realize that she is being teased her other teachers were so serious. She is currently learning how to play the violin and loves to practice. Did you get that? She LOVES to practice!

I am still doing the Ward Missionary/Young Women President calling. We have reactivated a member who hasn’t been to church in over  four years. She has had a really tough life. She is so receptive to what we have to teach. When the missionaries teach a lesson or when we teach her, she is like a sponge. I have not seen that much desire to learn and to change in a person before. It is miraculous! I feel depressed

when we don’t have lessons to teach. I often ask the missionaries for their input and love being taught by these wonderful young men, who seem so much wiser than this forty-plus woman.

Howard has a busy schedule for December. He will be gone most of the month. He is looking forward to his trip though. He will be in Australia, Japan, Brazil and China. It will be his first trip to China and he had to go through the process of getting a new passport and a

visitor’s visa to China, just for this trip. To be allowed into China, you have to have more than six months left on your passport (actually a lot of the Orient is changing to this rule). Howard had about three months left on his passport, therefore he had to apply for a new one and he only had about three weeks to get all the paperwork done. We are waiting for his passport to come. He leaves on the 28th of November, so it is getting close to the wire. Howard flew out to Utah to spend a few days with Siovhan. He will fly back on Thanksgiving Day. Siovhan will take him to the airport and will then drive to Nephi for the turkey dinner.

We hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving! We love you all!

The Fantastic Five

Hi, we made it home just fine. The kids slept the last half of the trip, and it was VERY quiet in the car. It was a nice drive.

We have a lot to be thankful for. I sure do. And I know you feel the same. My daughter is still alive and we have the most beautiful g-kids in the world. You just have more than I do.

This is the messy St. George Trauntveins. I wish I had better news, but Bree is back in re-hab. This time she is definitely staying for 90 days and perhaps longer. The treatment facility she is in now has agreed to keep her until she is ready, meaning until she can handle the addiction. Since they are not dependent on insurance, they have to deal with David or I, her mom. I basically told them not to take her if they weren't going to keep her. They agreed to keep her for as long as needed. She wants to be there, and she desperately wants help. So, we will wait and see.

David and I are taking care of the kids. All of us miss her terribly.

The kids are doing great. Erin is at the top of her class, and Donovin wants to be there so bad he can taste it. They are the reason it is so important to keep up the struggle. Erin is going to make pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving dinner. Four inch pies. Donovin just wants to be involved, preferably eating. David has been taking them shooting the last two weekends. Erin is learning to shoot with her great-grandmother's single shot 22 rifle. She is loving it and has actually hit what she was shooting at. Donovin is right behind her. He hasn't hit anything yet (at least not what he was aiming at). They have also started golfing, naturally, since Dad is so good at it. David says Erin is a natural, and Donovin just loves it. It sure is awful being two years behind, but he tries so hard. He will pass her by soon enough. 

I am keeping house and cooking, and laundry and just loving my grandkids. I will sure be glad when Mom gets back and takes over. We are getting a taste of what life is like without all the stress and the kids are loving it. We will all know what to shoot for when Bree gets home. 

We greatly appreciate any and all prayers.

Love Barbara

The Pitts Down in Pittsville

Hi!

We have all been worried for quite some now that my Mom had Alzheimer’s. We found out thankfully, last Thurs. that it isn't! But she has had some mini strokes. Her neurologist put her on a medication to help ward off the " big one". She only has a 4% chance, with the meds now that it will happen sometime in the next ten years. That is a LOT better news than we had expected. I was thinking it was Alzheimer’s. Her memory is severely affected, though. She can no longer remember things and she isn't able to do what used to do. I miss so many things. But I am so happy that we found out what was wrong and she is finally getting the medication that she needs.

My headaches have been really bad, so I apologize for this email being sent so late.

We hope that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We will be thinking of you and missing you all!

*HUGS*

Love, Kim, Cassie, Kayla and Robbie

New England Squash Pie

(Makes 10" deep dish pie)

This recipe is one of many that can be found in "Thanksgiving by the (Cook) Book" created by the Pilgrim Society and available through The Pilgrim Hall Museum located in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Ingredients

2 cups strained squash

1-cup brown sugar

1-teaspoon cinnamon

1/2-teaspoon ginger

Salt to taste

3 eggs

2 cups milk

1/2-cup cream

Pie shell for a 10" deep-dish pie

Directions: Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Add sugar and seasonings to squash, mix, and beat well. Beat the eggs slightly, add milk and cream, beat well. Add milk mixture slowly to squash mixture, beating gently to combine well. Pour filling into the shell, being careful not to overfill. Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 325 degrees and bake for 40 minutes until a knife inserted slightly off center comes out clean. NOTE: "One Pie" brand squash works well, and pumpkin may be substituted.

The Magnificent Seven

Brandon is still working hard on rechartering all the scout troops in our district. He is swamped with work and his boss keeps him very busy. He finally got to have an enjoyable evening thanks to David who sent Brandon and Kyle two Jazz tickets that he could not use because he had to work. The game was fantastic (Jazz vs. Suns) and the debt owed to David increased. (Brandon still owed him for the very long golf game David patiently endured on Labor Day because two 11 year-old boys wanted to go too.)

I am finally finished with the solicitation for murder trial. Sentencing was on November 16th, and this time my name was in the newspapers because my boss couldn't go. I am also done feeding all 30 of the teachers lunch for SEPs at school. (I made pulled pork, salad, rolls, etc.) I am getting increasingly busy in scouts with awards and advancements (there are a lot of meetings in scouts). Work is also increasing and my first rape trial will be December 6th. Tomorrow I am hosting the ward playgroup because I am a homeowner. I am still busing all five of the children everywhere.

Alyssa is preparing for Christmas dance shows and choir concerts. She is still Beehive Pres. and is busy planning activities and attending meetings. She had an overnight birthday party for her and her best friends which was a lot of fun for them (but not for me who had to do creative cooking to suit Alyssa's fancy).

Kyle has had a busy few weeks. He did the merit badge pow-wow at BYU and there is a lot of work that has to be done in between the classes. He also was the only youth speaker at the Aaronic Priesthood Preview (the Stake Pres. chose him probably because he knows Brandon from the high council). He worked a long time getting ready for that. Then he accompanied the primary in singing a song for the primary program on Sunday. That was really stressful for him and me. He did really well. He is growing up fast.

Megan is still really busy with ballroom dance, violin, choir, piano, math, and being a social butterfly. She is getting ready for Christmas shows as well. And now she is going to be in the advanced thinking class again, which I haven't really figured out; it seems like a lot of Mensa-ish logic games. She also accompanied the primary during the primary program, without one mistake. I admire people who can play songs that people are singing to, it is more difficult than just playing on one's own. She is so short that it was hard to see her over the people in front of us, it almost looked like the piano was playing itself.

Matthew has thoroughly enjoyed preparing for Thanksgiving and Halloween. It seems like everything is new to him now that he is experiencing holidays in school. He has been placed in the advanced reading group in kindergarten, which he is enjoying. He wants to read the scriptures at night like the big kids without any help, so he is motivated to learn to read faster than they were. He has a new "best friend" each week, which is just like him.

Rachel is a lot of fun. She has started bringing us random things and a lot of them. For example, while I talked to mom tonight, she brought me all of the DVDs out of the family room, one at a time. She will bring Brandon books and papers (all one at a time) and she is so proud of herself for doing it. I can't figure it out. She is getting molars, so she is quite miserable lately. While I was volunteering at school today calling the children's homes that were absent, she dove off the couch so in the background of the message there is a sudden blood curdling yell. I am sure they will think it is a prank call. Funny girl.

The Runnin’ Utes

From the Layton Trauntveins

We’re all here a doing well. Sorina is continuing to make us smile and laugh and awe at her abilities on a daily basis. She loves her cousins, her friends, her grandparents, her pets and well everyone. He daddy went camping with Dane and didn’t take her (oh, the horror!), so the next night they camped out together in the basement. He gave her the choice of inside in the tent or outside in the tent and she chose inside (lucky for dad, since it was raining).

Toren is back in school and enjoying his basketball season. He is also a Wolf in Scouts. He had nice birthday and is hooked on his games: Lego Star Wars II and Star Wars Battlefront II. His baptism will be on Saturday, December 2nd at 5:30 pm in our stake building (same as always).

Dane is also back in school and enjoying Scouts. He received his Second Class, Tenderfoot and First Class Ranks a few weeks and ago and he’s spent the last three weekends working on merit badges. He’s in his schools choir and has his performance on December 11th at 2:30 and 7:00pm. He also has his D.A.R.E. graduation on Monday, November 20th.

Brigitta is working very hard in school. She’s enjoying her position in Student Council and that is also keeping her busy. She helped with the Halloween Dance. She is also enjoying her drama class and is looking forward to her birthday in January and the possibility of getting her learner’s permit.

Shawn is busy with Scouts and work and life. Kimberly is also busy with Scouts and work and carpooling and life in general. We are all looking forward to the holiday season and a little time off to enjoy more family time.

Love,

Shawn, Kimberly, Brigitta, Dane, Toren and Sorina

The Buzzn’ Joneses

We have had quite a month. 

The girls have been sick. Christene had the croup and Mary had an ear infection. In spite of that, they are still learning at a rapid rate. Mary has learned how to make Christene laugh. They both have fun doing that. Christene thinks Mary is the greatest. Christene has learned how to turn over and also how to push herself around in a circle.

Mary started pushing kids younger than she was. We scolded her but she kept doing it. We were at Grandma’s while Rachel was there and she pushed Rachel down. Then Rachel didn’t want to have anything to do with her. After a few minutes, Mary started doing nice things for Rachel. We noted that, Grandma and Julie, and complimented her. She said, “Aren’t you excited!” Well, yes, we were.

Jim has been busy with the bees and Julie has been being mom and cub master. Scouts sure do take a lot of time and planning!

Thanks to all of you family members who have helped with the bees. We do appreciate all you do. Jim’s mom came for a few days and helped with the extracting. We were sad to see her go when she left on Saturday.

Jim’s mom came for a few days and helped with the extracting. We were sad to see her go when she left on Saturday.

We won’t be going to Idaho for Thanksgiving this year. Jim can’t spare that much time away from the bees.

Rocky Mountain “Hi!”

Kirsten, Jared, Whitney, Emaree and Ryan all wish you a happy Thanksgiving. 

We will be out-of-state (Colorado) with Jared’s family for the holiday and a few extra days for a good visit.

The girls are healthy and happy. 

Ryan is doing quite well. 

Thanks for all your prayers, phone calls and e-mails. 

We love you all.

The Butcher, the Baker, and the Mammograph Taker

Life has been about the same (chaotic).

The boys finished flag football so maybe things will slow down; yeah right. We did have the fortune/misfortune of buying a new car recently. Chili gave up the ghost. Big billowing clouds of smoke are never a good thing when you see them coming from your vehicle. Putting $1500 into a 23 year old car just didn't seem like the best thing to do. My sister Jamie's father-in-law buys cars off the auction, so I headed to Vegas to pick up a car. We got a cute little Hyundai commuter car. It's been fun!

Jason is still doing well in school and keeping busy with student council. He also had an opportunity to sing with a small group of children that sang along with our ward choir for a thanksgiving medley.

David is doing better with his reading lately. He's decided he really likes the Goosebumps books, although Mom can't figure out why. He did a great job with his part in the Primary program. He continues to love to draw and is pretty artistic.

Maddie is having tons of fun stamping with mom. She made mom a card that said, "Mom, you make me feel funny inside". I'm not exactly sure what that means and if it's a compliment or not. She has also made cards for Alyssa, Megan, and Aunt AnnMarie, as well as all of her friends in the neighborhood.

AJ stole the show at the primary program. He sat in the front pews with the Sunbeams and sang right out. He LOVES to sing! The thing is as loud as he sang he wasn't screaming and he was on key. On one song he held the last note out super long. It was a little embarrassing, as I looked around and everyone was looking at him and me and chuckling, but it was also just so darn cute. The choir director told me I was just getting him ready for her.

Eric has a new calling in our new ward; ward newsletter editor. This is a great calling for him since he works most Sundays. He is still plugging away on the basement. It's a slow process.

I am in my busiest time of the year as everyone races to get their preventative medicine done before the end of the year and insurance changes, or they lose their flex spending money or the fact that they already have met their deductible. I've ended up giving up several days off in order to appease the surgeons who need needle localizations for surgeries. Ugh! Oh well, it's only temporary. In January it will slow down and I can start preparing for my FDA inspection followed by my ACR accreditation. Maybe I don't really want January to come. I guess we'll just keep plugging away.

The Old Folks at Home

November is the thankful month. At least, it is the one when most of us gather the family around and give thanks for our blessings. I have many to be grateful for and I want to acknowledge that I do.

Mary and family counted blessings as part of Family Home Evening on Sunday. We all drew pictures of things we were thankful “happy” for on big colored-paper leaves. Mary, of course, was glad for the usual things children are grateful for: parents, cousins, aunts and uncles, Christene, grandparents, friends and toys. Grandpa was thankful for the day of Thanksgiving and all of his family. He drew a picture of his family, each one, gathered around a huge table with a turkey in the center. Jim and Julie were thankful for each other, home, children and temples. Jim was grateful that he was strong and could work. We said that Christene was thankful when Mary was soft with her, which I am certain is true. I was grateful for many things: hands and feet that work, eyes that see and ears that hear, a nose that can smell the wonders around, the temple, scriptures and, most of all, family. That should be written, FAMILY!

During this time of harvest and thanksgiving, I like to pause and reflect. I want you to know that even when I seem grumpy I am still grateful for daily life. I so enjoy sitting in the sunshine, looking at the beauty surrounding me and just enjoying being. I also want you all to know that there are many blessings that are mine.

I am thankful that Leonard and I are married (and have been for 45 years) and that we have a family of eight children that has expanded to 16. I love each family member and each grandchild so much that my heart swells just being near them. I like to watch the grandchildren and enjoy the things they say and do. I am grateful for each family member’s individual talents and for the way they enrich my life. I’m thankful to live in a land where freedom allows worship, learning and dreams. I’m thankful for the seasons, the flowers, plants and songs of birds. I appreciate sunshine and rain. (I am still working on snow.) I’m thankful we own a car for transportation, that I have comfortable clothing, and nutritious food. I’m thankful for my home. I actually love this house for its memories of all my children, grandchildren and loved ones enclosed inside its walls. 

I’m thankful for my Grandmother Smith, my parents and for wise teachings. I am thankful for special cousins, sisters, aunts and uncles and the joy of being connected to a family while I was a child. I’m thankful for the generosity and warmth of my inlaws. I’m thankful that I can read. I am thankful that I can write. I am thankful for those who have gone before me in the long line of my heritage. I am thankful that I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am thankful for the temple and the opportunity we have for eternal families. I am grateful for my testimony that Jesus Christ lives and that he died so that I might live again. 

I am thankful for good neighbors and kind friends. Basically, I suppose, I just have a full heart—full of love for all of you. I won’t pretend that we are a family without problems. We each have our own. For example, I think Dad and I sometimes feel our age. I was walking down the hall the other day and told Dad I didn’t know what sounded worse, my hip or my squeaking shoes. It was a tossup I think. We are, however, proud that each of you are doing the best with the circumstances you were given. You have all grown and, as we have noted before, we are so happy that each one of you loves the other. That is quite an accomplis hment on each of your parts. Remember, I was there when you were small and I wondered if any of you were going to live to adulthood. I think I should also be thankful that you all did.


Happy Thanksgiving!

How to Observe Thanksgiving

Count your blessings instead of your crosses;

Count your gains instead of your losses.

Count your joys instead of your woes;

Count your friends instead of your foes.

Count your smiles instead of your tears;

Count your courage instead of your fears.

Count your full years instead of your lean;

Count your kind deeds instead of your mean.

Count your health instead of your wealth;

Count on God instead of yourself.

~~Author Unknown~

We were able to visit Bree at her treatment facility in Mt. Pleasant. She seems to be doing quite well. She will be in the facility for 90 days all told. I can’t remember how many have gone past. It was a group meeting and was very informative. There were a lot of success stories there from people who came back to the meeting (something like AA). 


We had Erin and Donovin with us for a few days because Erin did not have school, (Erin’s school was having parent-teacher conferences.) so they were able to go to the meeting with us. Barbara met us there and came to Nephi afterward and slept overnight and headed home so Erin could be there in time for dancing lessons. Monday we took Erin and Donovin up to Provo and they played with the Howard kids. We also went to the Dinosaur museum and the natural history museum. During the week, it was also good to spend time with Rachel, Mary, Christene and A.J. We all had fun together. Mary didn’t like playing in the raked leaves but the others did. Donovin helped Grandpa load them into the back of the lawn mower trailer and take them to the garden after they were done playing.

David was quite happy that Todd stopped by to visit. Todd took David and his family to dinner while Todd was on a business trip in Las Vegas. Todd took time to drive to St. George and also to buy the DVD, “Cars” for the kids. They were still talking about it while they were here.

Jim and Dad have worked on the honey project. Thanks to David, Shawn, Brandon and Eric for the time they devoted (and continue) to devote to extracting this year’s crop of honey and to making the barn work so that honey could be extracted there. I know Jim and Julie will always appreciate the work you all have done. Jim’s mom came down and spent a week helping him with the extracting. Remember, she is a beekeeper’s daughter.

Dad almost has his shed done. He has worked on it all day today. He is now working on the doors. Now maybe he will have time to finish the downstairs bathroom. The shed needed to be done before the winter sets in and the bathroom walls can be finished after winter sets in, whatever that means.

Our Relief Society has been coloring “A, B, C” book pages to be used in teaching the reading of English. I took on five books and then I thought that I would never get done. I FINALLY did and turned them in. Next time I will be less ambitious.

We enjoyed Halloween here in Nephi. Julie, because of scouts, had to man a booth at the ward trunk or treat party. So I went with her and helped Mary have fun. The other two wards in our chapel had the trunk-or-treat party outside so LHT took care of that. He ran out of candy and had to run and get more. You should have seen the candy that I had bought for the party. It was hard to believe that it could all be gone.

Dad and I still think a monthly family home evening would be a great thing to do but also a difficult one because of logistics and time involvement problems.

1. Shawn and family live in Layton, David and family live in St. George. That represents three hours either way.

2. We don't leave the temple on Saturday until 5:30 or 6 p.m. Monday night means that everyone has to travel late. On Sunday, the various wards meet at different times which makes scheduling difficult, if not impossible.

3. Most nights there are soccer games, football (or sport of the season) and dancing lessons, scouts, young men and young women, church duties, school activities, work. Jim and Julie include us in their home evening from time to time. Jim does work late most nights. (AnnMarie says that they hold their Family Night on Sunday because they are too busy to do it any other day.) We are fearful that such a project would end up being that Dad and I would have a home evening, most times, by ourselves. We do that.

4. Some of our family lives far, far away. A family in Kirsten’s ward, to quote her, "teleconferences on Chat rooms (group IMing or instant messaging, might work) for FHE once a week (1/2 of their kids are at BYU, some at BYU Idaho and some home). Also, remember with sacrifice comes blessings. We can all give up some time. We all have computers and Internet access now, why don't we find some way of gathering around for 20 minutes on a Sunday or Monday night and share that love. Just an idea.”

Instant messaging, often shortened to simply "IM" or "IMing," is the exchange of text messages through a software application in real-time. Instant messaging differs from ordinary e-mail in the immediacy of the message exchange and also makes a continued exchange simpler than sending e-mail back and forth. Most exchanges are textonly, though popular services, now allow voice messaging, file sharing and even video chat when both users have cameras. For IMing to work, both users must be online at the same time. It is possible for two or more people to have a real-time online conversation by IMing each other back and forth. 

AnnMarie responded that she had safety issues with chat rooms and did not want any of the children of the family to ever be “on camera” because of her training that “perps” can gain access and target future victims. David said he would be willing to try for a once a month meeting; it would depend on the night selected. It would be possible to just outline a family home evening and have everyone do the same lesson the same night. Email would also work, I suppose. I just don’t know.

We asked, earlier, what everyone thought. We only got a few answers. If you decide you want to try, Mom can continue her pre-life agreement to be the chief nag of the LHT family and add another thing to nag about to the list.

We love you all!