Aunt Pearl's Yams

Hi Myrna,

As for me, the sweeter the better.  My mom's candied yams had tons of brown sugar on them.  I loved them.  I still make her recipe every year.  It is not the same as this recipe.  The yams are baked until tender.  Cooled, peeled, sliced, spread in layers in a buttered glass dropper pan, brown sugar and dobs of butter on each layer, then baked slow for at least three hours to let the sugar seep into the yams, basted with the juice as they cook, then served and enjoyed.  She said the secret is to sprinkle a very slight amount of salt on each layer.  I do that.  The family loves them. However, they are sweet.  But so are we.

Love Ya,

Gordon

PS  Sorry about all of the commas!

Trevyn‏ Smith, Gordon Smith's Grandson

From a proud grandpa.

Capping a Career
By Jasen Asay (Standard-Examiner staff ) 
Last Edit: 10 hours 26 min ago (Nov 25 2009 - 7:30pm) 
OGDEN -- When Trevyn Smith first stepped on Weber State's campus, he did so with a chip on his shoulder. Five years later the chip might still be there, but it's been joined by the long list of accomplishments he has gathered while becoming one of the most dominant running backs the Big Sky Conference has ever seen. It's those sets of numbers that show how dedicated he has been to the program.

The senior running back, who leads the No. 15-ranked Wildcats against the nation's top rushing defense on Saturday when WSU plays at No. 6-ranked William & Mary in the first round of the Division I FCS playoffs, has worked hard to dazzle fans during his career as a Wildcat.

"He's one of those guys who have always fought his way up from whatever," coach Ron McBride said. "He wasn't recruited by a big Division I school, then he comes here and redshirts as a freshman, which was tough on him because he thought he should play as a true freshman and he probably should have, but I think it was good for him to save him that year."

Smith led the state in rushing with 2,108 yards in 2004 as a senior at Springville High School, however, he didn't get attention from the bigger schools in the state so he gladly came to WSU. Ever since taking over the starting job five games into his freshman season, Smith has become the most decorated running back in WSU history.

Smith's list of accomplishments is a long one. He broke the WSU all-time rushing record as a junior, and he has racked up 5,007 yards in his career, third in Big Sky history. On Tuesday he was named as a first-team all-conference member for the fourth time, one of just three players in the 47-year history of the league to have that honor. Last season Smith led the nation in scoring with 28 touchdowns.

Just like after any big game, Smith is the first to give the credit elsewhere.

"I couldn't have put up the numbers I did without my guys," Smith said. "Every offensive line I've had in the past four years has been unbelievable, well-coached and I couldn't have done it without them or the throwing game."

Smith also led the league in rushing his first three seasons, one of just two players to do so, and came into this season hoping to be the first to lead the Big Sky for four consecutive seasons. However Smith currently ranks fourth, averaging 97.9 yards per game, which is something that isn't even on his mind as the Wildcats prepare for the playoffs.

"I haven't even thought about it, that's how much I don't care," Smith said. "It's important to me and these numbers matter, but what good have they done me? I think if we won a national championship it would do me more credit than if I led the league in rushing and we didn't even go."

This hasn't been the storybook final season for Smith. He was suspended for WSU's game at Northern Colorado for violating a team rule, and would likely have had a big rushing game that day. The following week at Montana, Smith injured his ankle on the very first play and had to deal with that, along with the tough Montana defense.

"He puts his heart and soul into the game, that's why I love that kid," said WSU offensive lineman J.C. Oram. "He's always going to be my running back. I can't be happier to be a part of his career."

It's Smith's teammates and his family that drive him to play well. Trevyn and his wife, Erica, are the proud parents of two beautiful children. Their daughter, Ryan, turned two on Nov. 14 while their son, Reggi, celebrated his first birthday on Nov. 4.

"It's not easy being a dad and a husband and play football and try to be good football," Smith said. "The thing that makes it worth it is playing for them."

Ryan is blind in one eye and has little vision in the other due to a medical condition called optic nerve hypoplasia, and the Smiths are preparing to have her undergo stem cell treatments. Initially, the family planned on going to China to have the procedure done, but the specific treatment Ryan needs is close to being approved to be done in the United States. Since age is not a factor in the procedure, the Smiths want to have the treatments in the U.S. at the right time.

As Smith prepares to play what could be his last game as a Wildcat, he can fondly look back and be proud of what he has accomplished at Weber State.

"I haven't always been the biggest weight room guy, or always been necessarily what I'm supposed to be at all times, but I'm a good father and a good husband and they take some of my time and they deserve it," Smith said. "People can say what they want, but I show up on Saturdays."
Trackback URL for this post:http://www.standard.net/trackback/17265 

Myrna wrote: Congratulations to you and to Trevyn. You were a great player as well. It must be in the genes. 

Sweet Potatoes

Hi Myrna,

As for me, the sweeter the better.  My mom's candied yams had tons of brown sugar on them.  I loved them.  I still make her recipe every year.  It is not the same as this recipe.  The yams are baked until tender.  Cooled, peeled, sliced, spread in layers in a buttered glass dropper pan, brown sugar and dobs of butter on each layer, then baked slow for at least three hours to let the sugar seep into the yams, basted with the juice as they cook, then served and enjoyed.  She said the secret is to spinkle a very slight amount of salt on each layer.  I do that.  The family loves them. However, they are sweet.  But so are we.

Love Ya,
Gordon

PS  Sorry about all of the commas!

Sweet Potato Casserole: Easy Recipe
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
2 eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup cream
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups cooked mashed sweet potatoes
¼ cup orange juice (optional)
For your topping:
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup flour
2 tablespoons butter, softened
/2 cup chopped pecans, and/or mini marshmallows
Now you’re cooking: Boil sweet potatoes until soft.  Peel and mash. Mix the eggs, sugar, and 3/4 cup butter, and then add your milk and vanilla. Combine liquid mixture with the mashed sweet potatoes. Distribute the potatoes into a casserole dish.  Grease the bottom of the dish before putting the potatoes in. Combine brown sugar, flour, 2 tablespoons softened butter, and pecans (or marshmallows).  Mix well. Sprinkle over sweet potatoes. Bake at 350° for 30 to 45 minutes until topping is lightly browned.  This dish serves approximately 6 people.

I honestly think this is more of a dessert than a side dish but the temple serves it as a side. I think it is too sweet and recommend using less sugar in the potatoes. The temple uses the brown sugar/nut topping but they use more nuts. One of the sisters uses both the marshmallows and the brown sugar and nuts. She just uses less of the marshmallows and nuts--1/4 cup each.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Grandma Smith’s One, Two, Three, Four White Celebration Cake

Grandma Smith’s One, Two, Three, Four White Celebration Cake

A favorite celebration recipe that has been in our family for many years is a delicious from-scratch white cake that's called One, Two Three, Four Cake.  The name comes from the first four ingredients-1 cup, 2 cups, 3 cups, and 4 eggs--easy and beautiful

Cake:

1-cup butter (2 sticks)

2-cups sugar

3-cups flour

4-eggs

3-teaspoons baking powder

1/2-teaspoon salt

1-teaspoon vanilla

1/2-teaspoon lemon extract

1 1/2-cups milk

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well between each egg. In another mixing bowl, sift together the dry ingredients. Add the dry ingredients to the butter/sugar mixture alternately with the milk. (One cup of flour mixture and mix in then add 1/2 cup of milk and beat. Do this each time, beating well between additions.) Add the flavorings. Beat on high speed of the electric
mixer for 3 minutes. Pour into two greased and floured 9-inch round pans and bake for 45-minutes or until done. Remove from oven and let cool about 5 minutes before removing cakes from pans. (I also sometimes use one 13-inch by 9-inch pan and bake for 45 minutes.)

Icing: 

3 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup butter (one stick) 

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 Tablespoon milk

12-ounces flaked coconut, separated

Cream the butter and sugar together until well-mixed. (I like to melt the butter slightly because it mixes in better. I put it in the microwave for about 25 seconds.) Add the flavorings and milk and mix until creamy. Frost the cake. (When I make the layer cake, I double the frosting recipe.) Sprinkle the coconut over the top of the cake.


Kirsten: Yummo!!!!!!  Thank you! Your darling baby ornery girl!

Books Suggestions

Kirsten wrote:

Suggestions for Christmas Books:

Penny's Christmas Jar Miracle
by Jason F. Wright
http://www.amazon.com/Pennys-Christmas-Miracle-Jason-Wright/dp/1606411675


The Spirit of Christmas by Nancy Tillman
http://www.amazon.com/Spirit-Christmas-Nancy-Tillman/dp/0312549652

Dane is Making Pumpkin Pie

Myrna wrote: Does Dane REALLY want to make pumpkin pie?

Kimberly wrote: Yeah, should he bring more than two?

Myrna wrote: Two is great. There won't be that many folks here though Eric said he would come in the late afternoon for pie. He is hoping for mince.

Sweet Potato Pie

Best Ever Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie

1 (1 pound) sweet potato or about 2 cups cooked and peeled

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 Tablespoon white flour

1/2 cup canned milk

2 eggs

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ginger

1/4 teaspoon cloves

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust

Boil sweet potato whole in skin for 40 to 50 minutes, or until done. Run cold water over the sweet potato, and remove the skin. (Do not store the cooked potato in the refrigerator overnight if you can’t make the pie right away. It makes the sweet potato grainy. Just prepare it when you can do the whole job at once.) Break apart sweet potato in a bowl. Add butter, and mix well with mixer. Using the mixer, stir in the sugar, flour, eggs, nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla. Mix thoroughly. Add the milk and continue to mix. Beat on medium speed until mixture is smooth. Pour filling into an unbaked pie crust. Bake at 350 degrees F for 40 to 55 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Pie will puff up like a souffle, and then will sink down as it cools. Calories: 389  per serving. 

We always served this with whipped cream as a topping. However, some like it with a meringue topping. Place the pie on a rack and cool to room temperature before covering with meringue. For the meringue, using an electric mixer, beat 3 egg whites until soft peaks form; beat in 1/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon at a time. Continue beating until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is glossy and stiff, but not dry. With a rubber spatula, spoon the meringue onto the pie, forming peaks. Make sure the meringue touches the crust all around. Sprinkle with a pinch of granulated sugar. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until delicately browned. Cool and serve.

From Cousin Toni Jackson

Hi everyone,

    I've been getting calls and notes from friends saying that they must have been left out of the loop cause they have not received any updates from me in quite a while..... but that is because I have not sent any.  Just have been too busy with other stuff, plus don't want to bore you with too many details so I'll try to keep it relatively short.

    November has been a busy month and it ain't over yet!  We left on 11/9 & drove to So. Calif. for my daughter Kristen's wedding to Don Burks, a great guy she met thru' work... they both work at Edwards Air Force Base which is out in the desert (where the shuttle sometimes lands) & they had been living in the desert too... she in Lancaster, him in Calif City, and Kristen being a 'Bass Lake baby" wanted to live where there are some actual pine trees, so they bought a lovely home in Tehachapi.  The wedding was in a lodge in Tehachapi, and the weather cooperated by supplying sunshine instead of fog or ice, which was nice.  It was Kristen's first marriage, so was very exciting.  Also fun and emotional to see my 'ex relatives'.., all my own kids of course, my sister & a couple of her kids and THEIR kids. it all went well.  A beautiful wedding!

    While in So. Cal. I thought I may as well get an appt at City of Hope for another opinion on my treatment.  They are the largest breast cancer research hospital in the western states.  I made the appt. months in advance and saw a female oncologist who I liked very much.  She said the treatment I am getting here in Roseburg is exactly the right thing to do.  No reason to change anything unless, or until, it stops working for me.  She said some people live with diabetes and I will just live with stage 4 breast cancer!  Who knew?  It all still seems too easy (not complaining!) I may have some of the 'ugly' treatments in my future, but not now.  Thank you God!  We also went to Disneyland & California Adventure the next day.  I thought I'd want a wheel chair & we got one but it was almost more trouble than it was worth, so we just didn't cover a whole lot of ground. We also visited Craig's boyhood ranch with the rodeo grounds in Woodlake & had lunch with his step-mom Rosemary in Visalia on the way home. I got to sit in the sunshine by her pool..... nice!

    We got home last Monday, I had oral surgery Tues. & also discovered our dog was sick. He was still sick Weds. so took him to the vet where he spent the rest of the week with a temp of 106, on an IV, getting X-rays (ca-ching!).  He's ok now, never found out why he was sick but he had been in a kennel here in town while we were gone & the owner told me her dog had been sick the week before.  I think it's irresponsible of her not to keep that dog separated from mine (& all)!

    This week we will drive up to the Tacoma area and have Thanksgiving with my son Rick & daughter-in-law Kim and her family.  It should be a fun group!  Also want to try to see Dale Chihuly's glass museum in Tacoma while we are there (he's the guy that did the huge glass flowers in the Belagio in Vegas & I attended his glass school in the mountains above Seattle  in 1985) & also hook up with some old friends I've had since the 1960's!  So... still very busy!

    Basically I still feel "fine"... have some aches & pains, a little more bone pain in my left shoulder that makes me imagine a time when I won't want to turn a steering wheel or do my own hair. This yucky fog does not help!  Craig is sore too.

    So... guess this is not so short after all.. sorry 'bout that!

    Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!  Stay well!  Hugs,  Toni

David's New Phone Numbers

David wrote: Mother please send this to the rest of my siblings. I do not know if I have their correct email address.

We have done away with the land line. Since we bought cell phones, no one uses the home phone except; bill collectors and the Colorado State Police wanting me to donate more money.

David      970 275 9336
Arbree    970 275 9744
Erin        970 417 0568 (if she can stop gossiping in class)
Donovin soon to come if he can do what the teacher asks
Caydin    not for a while
Barbara   970 901 4167

Please reply with your number so I have an updated list for my phone.

Thanks, Love you all
David


Myrna wrote: And you would want her to stop talking in class because? Would she still be a Trauntvein if she did?

For Eric

I wrote this letter to Steve's daughter, Stephanie, a few months ago. I had Amy proof read it.  She said that there are mistakes, she would take care of it. Will you help me out it was for her graduation? What took me hours to write will take you seconds to fix.
Thanks
 E.

I go in for surgery Monday at 9:30 am. Not a biggy, see you Thursday for pie (maybe mince meat) and others.


Dear Stephanie;

I am so proud of you for graduating from high school. It is a giant leap it to the realm of the big world. I have by and by thought of some of some of the people I went to school with and where they are in life. I think of all the changes I have made since the glory days. Some of the people I went to school with refuse to grow up and out of high school and still, to this day, live in that world: like the homecoming queen, the football jock, and so forth.
     
You have accomplished a great task and many more lie ahead of you. Some of those will be decisions such as: continuing your education as has been counseled of by the Prophets, whether or not to serve a full time mission, temple marriage (which I had better be invited to or at least be invited to the reception). These are just a few of the future decisions you will make.
     
Your life might become complicated. At some time in the future you may feel like your whole world is crashing down on you and that no one understands. The only thing that will pull you through those times is your testimony. It is a great thing having a testimony of your Heavenly father, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and the Book of Mormon.
     
I have found that all things can be overcome by the power of prayer and by searching the Holy Scriptures. Pay your tithing. I have found that this is a true principle. The Lord truly does open the windows of heaven and does pour out blessings. Was I made whole from being bipolar by doing this? No I was not, but the window was opened up and the blessings did and do come out. Your dad is one of those great blessings. He has been and will always be a most trusted and faithful friend whom I love with all my heart. I would lay down my life for that Man. Heavenly Father has eased the burden on my shoulders through your father.
     
Be that light shining on the hill. In other words, be a great example to your friends and family. Let them see the light that you emulate. Most of the time, I have discovered, being such a light comes from setting a standard and sticking to it no matter how much you are pressured. You will be blessed and so will your family and friends as you stand up and fight as a daughter of God. You are a daughter of your Heavenly Father; he loves you and wants you to be happy. I, as a friend, desire as much also.

I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I know that the Holy Ghost will lead us like a shepherd will lead his lambs, if we will but do right and listen. I know that the power of prayer works. In so many ways Heavenly father has guided me through life with this simple tool.

I testify of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All the things that I have done in my life that were not conducive of the sprit, I have been forgiven for doing because of the sacrifice of our Savior. I continually ask Heavenly father to help me to over come my weaknesses and forgive me when I fall. I testify of following the Prophet’s advice and attend all my church meetings, when my work permits, to renew my covenant with God that I made at my Baptism.

I testify to you about paying tithing: always pay and you will blessed. I have, along with my family, been so blessed because of this simple task. Always pay no matter what. By making that commitment and sticking to it you will come to understand it one day.

Live your life in accordance with the spirit you and will be blessed. Get your patriarchal blessing it is an added guide for you from Heavenly Father.
I love you,
Eric Trauntvein (Bubba)

From Jim and Julie Jones About Christmas Tree Sales--You Can Get a Fresh One

Christmas Tree Permit Sales

begin Nov. 23 through Dec. 23

At the

Sanpete District Office

Manti-La Sal National Forest

540 North Main Street, Ephraim

Sales will also occur Nov. 28,

9 a.m. to noon at:

Stock Corral east of Spring City,
400 permits

Ephraim Canyon, 300 permits 

Manti Stake Center, 295 S. Main,
Manti, 225 permits 

Sterling LDS Church parking lot,
175 permits 

Stock Corral east of Mayfield, 300
permits

From 9 a.m. to 10:30 at: 

Fountain Green Elementary School,
100 permits

From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at:

Forest Service District Office, Nephi,
100 permits

Each tag will cost $10

This is the last year permits willbe sold at sites outside the office.

Beth McClanahan

Information Receptionist

Manti-LaSal National Forest

Sanpete Ranger District

435 283-4151

bmcclanahan@fs.fed.us

Did You Pay Extra Postage to Get My Card?

Myrna wrote: When I took Kirsten's birthday card to the mail, I was worried that I was too late for the mail to go out for that day. Therefore, I went to the window. She said it would make it just fine. Then she said, "Oh, wait, it feels a little heavy." She weighed it and it was 1/10th of an ounce over the allowed weight. I had to pay more postage. I asked what happened if such a card was just mailed by being placed right in the box. She said that those were usually delivered with postage due and the receiver had to pay the difference.

So, my question is, did you have to pay "postage due" on the card you received? The two cards were the same size and had the same contents.

What about the rest of you, have you also had to pay extra postage? What about your anniversary card, David? It was also about the same size.

Love, M


Melanie wrote: No, I didn't have to pay extra postage. The card was in with the regular mail on Monday. Maybe Kirsten's card was heavier? Not sure.

Thanks for the money. I haven't had time to mail out my thank you cards. I did buy some new pajamas with the money. I like pajamas. I think I have become the pajama queen. In this economy it pays to have nice, warm, comfy pajamas.

Love you.
Mel


Myrna wrote: Thanks! Dad thinks the envelope had a bit heavier paper. My goodness! I wonder if they just don't pay that much attention to a card that is not taken to the window?

I am glad you got PJs. That is what I got for myself the other day. I bought a couple of pairs of thermal pajamas. Now I am as warm as fresh toast.

Melanie, I appreciate your reply. I love my girl! M

Pirates of Penzance - Timpview

I know most of you cannot attend, but I still wanted everyone to feel welcome to come and watch Alyssa and Kyle in "Pirates of Penzance" at Timpview High School.  The show times are as follows:  Tuesday, Nov 17, 9 am and 12 noon; Wednesday, Nov 18, 7:30 pm; Thursday, Nov 19, 7:30 pm; Friday, Nov 20, 7:30 pm; Saturday, Nov 21, 7:30 pm; Monday, Nov 23, 4 pm.  It looks like the show runs about two hours.  It costs $5 for students, $6 for non-students.  The address is 3570 Timpview Drive in Provo.  You can call for directions or Google it if you would like to attend.  I will probably go on Friday and Saturday.  Brandon and the Young Men are going on Wednesday.  It is a huge school, but the auditorium is easily accessed from the North.

Kyle is a pirate and Alyssa is one of the General's daughters.  

Thanks,
AnnMarie

Grandma Smith’s One, Two, Three, Four White Celebration Cake

Grandma Smith’s One, Two, Three, Four White Celebration Cake

A favorite celebration recipe that has been in our family for many years is a delicious from-scratch white cake that's called One, Two Three, Four Cake.  The name comes from the first four ingredients-1 cup, 2 cups, 3 cups, and 4 eggs--easy and beautiful

Cake:

1-cup butter (2 sticks)

2-cups sugar

3-cups flour

4-eggs

3-teaspoons baking powder

1/2-teaspoon salt

1-teaspoon vanilla

1/2-teaspoon lemon extract

1 1/2-cups milk

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well between each egg. In another mixing bowl, sift together the dry ingredients. Add the dry ingredients to the butter/sugar mixture alternately with the milk. (One cup of flour mixture and mix in then add 1/2 cup of milk and beat. Do this each time, beating well between additions.) Add the flavorings. Beat on high speed of the electric

mixer for 3 minutes. Pour into two greased and floured 9-inch round pans and bake for 45-minutes or until done. Remove from oven and let cool about 5 minutes before removing cakes from pans. (I also sometimes use one 13-inch by 9-inch pan and bake for 45 minutes.)

Icing: 

3 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup butter (one stick) 

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 Tablespoon milk

12-ounces flaked coconut, separated

Cream the butter and sugar together until well-mixed. (I like to melt the butter slightly because it mixes in better. I put it in the microwave for about 25 seconds.) Add the flavorings and milk and mix until creamy. Frost the cake. (When I make the layer cake, I double the frosting recipe.) Sprinkle the coconut over the top of the cake.

Kirsten wrote: Yummo!!!!!!  Thank you!

Your darling baby ornery girl!

Myrna wrote: You mean, my darling baby girl who has been without sugar for two weeks. Congrats!

How Do You Copy a Video From A Site?

Myrna wrote: How do I copy the video of the girls at the Grandparents day so that I can have a copy?

Kirsten wrote: You can't.  I'll send you a copy.

Gordon's Grandson

From a proud grandpa. Gordon Smith

Photo from Northern Arizona Game 11-14-09

Capping a Career

By Jasen Asay (Standard-Examiner staff ) 
Last Edit: 10 hours 26 min ago (Nov 25 2009 - 7:30pm)

OGDEN -- When Trevyn Smith first stepped on Weber State's campus, he did so with a chip on his shoulder. Five years later the chip might still be there, but it's been joined by the long list of accomplishments he has gathered while becoming one of the most dominant running backs the Big Sky Conference has ever seen. It's those sets of numbers that show how dedicated he has been to the program.

The senior running back, who leads the No. 15-ranked Wildcats against the nation's top rushing defense on Saturday when WSU plays at No. 6-ranked William & Mary in the first round of the Division I FCS playoffs, has worked hard to dazzle fans during his career as a Wildcat.

"He's one of those guys who have always fought his way up from whatever," coach Ron McBride said. "He wasn't recruited by a big Division I school, then he comes here and redshirts as a freshman, which was tough on him because he thought he should play as a true freshman and he probably should have, but I think it was good for him to save him that year."

Smith led the state in rushing with 2,108 yards in 2004 as a senior at Springville High School, however, he didn't get attention from the bigger schools in the state so he gladly came to WSU. Ever since taking over the starting job five games into his freshman season, Smith has become the most decorated running back in WSU history.

Smith's list of accomplishments is a long one. He broke the WSU all-time rushing record as a junior, and he has racked up 5,007 yards in his career, third in Big Sky history. On Tuesday he was named as a first-team all-conference member for the fourth time, one of just three players in the 47-year history of the league to have that honor. Last season Smith led the nation in scoring with 28 touchdowns.

Just like after any big game, Smith is the first to give the credit elsewhere.

"I couldn't have put up the numbers I did without my guys," Smith said. "Every offensive line I've had in the past four years has been unbelievable, well-coached and I couldn't have done it without them or the throwing game."

Smith also led the league in rushing his first three seasons, one of just two players to do so, and came into this season hoping to be the first to lead the Big Sky for four consecutive seasons. However Smith currently ranks fourth, averaging 97.9 yards per game, which is something that isn't even on his mind as the Wildcats prepare for the playoffs.

"I haven't even thought about it, that's how much I don't care," Smith said. "It's important to me and these numbers matter, but what good have they done me? I think if we won a national championship it would do me more credit than if I led the league in rushing and we didn't even go."

This hasn't been the storybook final season for Smith. He was suspended for WSU's game at Northern Colorado for violating a team rule, and would likely have had a big rushing game that day. The following week at Montana, Smith injured his ankle on the very first play and had to deal with that, along with the tough Montana defense.

"He puts his heart and soul into the game, that's why I love that kid," said WSU offensive lineman J.C. Oram. "He's always going to be my running back. I can't be happier to be a part of his career."

It's Smith's teammates and his family that drive him to play well. Trevyn and his wife, Erica, are the proud parents of two beautiful children. Their daughter, Ryan, turned two on Nov. 14 while their son, Reggi, celebrated his first birthday on Nov. 4.

"It's not easy being a dad and a husband and play football and try to be good football," Smith said. "The thing that makes it worth it is playing for them."

Ryan is blind in one eye and has little vision in the other due to a medical condition called optic nerve hypoplasia, and the Smiths are preparing to have her undergo stem cell treatments. Initially, the family planned on going to China to have the procedure done, but the specific treatment Ryan needs is close to being approved to be done in the United States. Since age is not a factor in the procedure, the Smiths want to have the treatments in the U.S. at the right time.

As Smith prepares to play what could be his last game as a Wildcat, he can fondly look back and be proud of what he has accomplished at Weber State.

"I haven't always been the biggest weight room guy, or always been necessarily what I'm supposed to be at all times, but I'm a good father and a good husband and they take some of my time and they deserve it," Smith said. "People can say what they want, but I show up on Saturdays."

Trackback URL for this post:

http://www.standard.net/trackback/17265

About DVD

Myrna wrote: I have the one DVD that is written on. The one there is yours. I am missing another, it is supposed to be a CD, that would be in a plain envelope. It is supposed to have the photos on in files that I can copy for print. I thought I left it by the computer. I am old, Father William.

I don't know, Kirsten, perhaps I need to take a memory enhancement class.


Kirsten wrote: Mom, I still can't see it.  I'll keep looking, though.

Kirsten


Myrna wrote: One of the mysteries of life: no one can ever find anything they are looking for. I had a crazy lady in RS, when I was president, who thought that the imps of the devil moved things into another dimension just to torment people. Then, when everyone had given up, they moved them back. I still think she was nuts but maybe she was on to something. I am looking here also, just because I am also nuts. 

How was the birthday?

Brigitta Wreak

Myrna wrote: Brigitta totaled the Mazda last night. She is fine. Her girlfriend had to go be checked by a doctor. A passenger in the other car had to go to the hospital. Shawn is quite concerned. I think all concerned could use some love and understanding.

Pritchett Family

You may want to keep this information.

I had an epiphany (an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure) that no one would know who these folks are in one more generation. I didn't want that to happen. So here we go.

Front Row, left to right: Renee Smith (daughter of Vivian and Ray Smith), Menetta Pritchett (Frank's wife), Betty Reynolds (daughter of Jessie Reynolds, her surname at the time of the photo. She divorced and then, later, married Gilbert Brighton, the wonderful man who baptized me.), Elaine Smith, Myrna's mother.

Second Row, left to right: Annie Pritchett Maiben (Sarah Ellen's daughter), Jean Anderson, (daughter of Afton Pritchett Anderson, Vivian's Aunt who was just about one month older), (moving to the left), Mina Ericksen Pritchett, Vivian Smith (Mina's daughter), Jessie Reynolds (Mina's daughter).

Back Row: Frank Pritchett, Sarah Ellen Thompson Pritchett Wilson, Afton Anderson (daughter of Sarah Ellen and James Wilson, her second husband), Floyd Anderson (husband of Afton) and last, Raymond Smith, husband of Vivian.

Taken at Grandma Wilson's home.

As an aside: Sarah Ellen Thompson married (2) 3 Jan 1894 James M. Wilson, a blacksmith. Her first husband, Levi Franklin Pritchett, was killed by an armed robber who robbed his safe. James Wilson was born 25 Dec 1836, Elzabethtown, Pennsylvania. He died 4 June 1911 at Mt. Pleasant, Utah. The couple had one child, F, Afton Wilson, born 6 Oct 1894 in Mt. Pleasant, Utah. She married Floyd Anderson. She was baptized on 5 Sep 1907. Her daughter, Jean Savage, joined the Catholic Church and lived in Price. Afton and Jean kept close contact with Vivian Pritchett Smith.

Pritchett Family

You may want to keep this information.

I had an epiphany (an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure) that no one would know who these folks are in one more generation. I didn't want that to happen. So here we go.

Front Row, left to right: Renee Smith (daughter of Vivian and Ray Smith), Menetta Pritchett (Frank's wife), Betty Reynolds (daughter of Jessie Reynolds, her surname at the time of the photo. She divorced and then, later, married Gilbert Brighton, the wonderful man who baptized me.), Elaine Smith, Myrna's mother.

Second Row, left to right: Annie Pritchett Maiben (Sarah Ellen's daughter), Jean Anderson, (daughter of Afton Pritchett Anderson, Vivian's Aunt who was just about one month older), (moving to the left), Mina Ericksen Pritchett, Vivian Smith (Mina's daughter), Jessie Reynolds (Mina's daughter).

Back Row: Frank Pritchett, Sarah Ellen Thompson Pritchett Wilson, Afton Anderson (daughter of Sarah Ellen and James Wilson, her second husband), Floyd Anderson (husband of Afton) and last, Raymond Smith, husband of Vivian.

Taken at Grandma Wilson's home.

As an aside: Sarah Ellen Thompson married (2) 3 Jan 1894 James M. Wilson, a blacksmith. Her first husband, Levi Franklin Pritchett, was killed by an armed robber who robbed his safe. James Wilson was born 25 Dec 1836, Elzabethtown, Pennsylvania. He died 4 June 1911 at Mt. Pleasant, Utah. The couple had one child, F, Afton Wilson, born 6 Oct 1894 in Mt. Pleasant, Utah. She married Floyd Anderson. She was baptized on 5 Sep 1907. Her daughter, Jean Savage, joined the Catholic Church and lived in Price. Afton and Jean kept close contact with Vivian Pritchett Smith.

Trauntvein History and Mine Disasters

Please keep this someplace because I can't remember from time to time. I sat LHT down and this is what I learned.

His Uncle Neldon Trauntvein, Henry's next to the youngest brother, was killed in a mine cave-in in Castle Gate. He was the only one killed in the accident.

Tom Grundy, husband to Crystal Trauntvein Grundy, Henry's sister, was seriously injured in an accidental cave-in at Castle Gate. Broke his hip and leg and he had to have a pin placed in the hip and down the leg which made him crippled.

Gilmer Nielsen, Delma Rostron Nielsen, sister of Gladys, was killed in an explosion in Kenilworth mine. He was one of seven killed. He was badly burned.

Bert Llewellyn, Bulah Rostron Llewellyn, sister of Gladys, was crushed by a loading machine. He was found dead beneath the machine where he was either working on it or had gone to get warm while his load went out.

Henry was injured when his foot was caved-on. He broke his ankle and foot. They were going to use TNT on a blocking. They could not get beneath it. So paddled into the water and placed the dynamite and paddled back. Got just to the edge of the water. Something told him to get off the raft. Walked away back, the water disappeared after the blast but the raft he had been on was smashed against the ceiling. Then he was in the mine and went into an entry. He had blocked the door over but someone accidentally removed it and he could have been gassed. He was walking into the mine and was using his lantern to test for air. He found his lamp went out so he turned and ran away from the black damp. He hit into a timber and passed out. There was air at the level of the floor and he revived and was able to get out. He dislocated his shoulder. He went to a chiropractor, Dr. Munk, and he put it back in place.

He started mining when he was 13-years old. His dad expected him to mine as much coal each day as he did. They had to blast their own coal, pick it out, load the cart and pull it out using a horse. They were paid by the load. That was the Clear Creek Mine.

Guess what? I did leave something behind.‏

Myrna wrote: I left both of those CDs of Aunt Eva--mine and yours. This is an awful request, but would you mail one of them to me? Thanks!

Thanks to Jared, even LHT was impressed with my front teeth being without those terrible black stains. All of the other teeth feel fine, as well. Many thanks.

Thanks also for following my spirit whisperings and getting help with our family names. That would have been worth my paying my way. Then, on top of it all, I have the great good fortune of spending time with the grandchildren. 

I had such a good time with all of you. When I gave Grandpa his gift from Emma, he found it had a quarter inside. No wonder she was short--she gave us 50-cents of her money. Tell her thank you for us.

Give all of our little sweeties a hug and kiss.

Kirsten wrote: I thought about that yesterday and thought "no, I think she said that one was mine."  Follow the thoughts, Kirsten!!!  Some day, I'll learn.  Yes, I will slip it in the mail to you.

Thank YOU for coming!  Sorry we were so stressed out.  Maybe next time will be  a little more relaxing.

loves

Myrna wrote: "Some day, I'll learn." Yes, and if each of us really did that we would have gas in the car and tax in the pocket. Still we are blessed with tender mercies--like daughters who will mail us the other CD. Of course, keep the one meant for you!

Life is stress. I doubt that it will be better next time, just different. I did have a good time and am not certain why you are concerned about it. Any of the children I visit have stresses and I have my own here at home. You know about that, you get in on some of them.

Lots of love, M

Letter for Michael

Myrna wrote: Did you get the letter of recommendation from LHT for Michael?

Todd wrote: Yes.  Printed and in an envelope.  Thank you. I thought Amy had responded already.


Amy wrote: Yes, and thank you very much!  It was a very nice letter!

Also, thank you for the halloween package and treat $.  The kids always enjoy getting those!  And thank you for all the cd's!  Very much appreciated!

love,

Amy


Myrna wrote: You are welcome. However, after being with Kirsten and her family when they went to spend their dollars, I wonder if I should also include a dime each time so they have money for the tax. Kirsten had to dig up about 8-cents in tax for each of the dollars.

Love, M

Kenilworth Photos Found by Shawn

Shawn wrote:
Hi,
I seem to remember hearing Aberdeen Mine in relation to the Kenilworth mining. What are Bull Hollow and Blue Gate?-Shawn


Myrna wrote: Aberdeen was what Kenilworth was called at first. It was then called Independent Coal and Coke but they cut the coke from the name because the coal didn't coke very well. Dad LH remembers hearing Bull Hollow and Blue Gate but he can't remember where those were.


Shawn wrote:

Thanks,


Just wondered because I remembered I had found some pictures on Picasa from Kenilworth once, and when Todd sent the Nephi pictures I went and found the pictures again. They are all modern, and are from a guy’s ride on his four-wheeler up in that area. He just mentioned those two other names, and they were not familiar to me.

Here are his pics, I found them interesting as they reminded me of hiking in the area with Dad:

http://picasaweb.google.com/Dennis.Udink/KenilworthCastle#

-Shawn

Myrna wrote: Dad says to tell you thanks. He will try to figure out where Bull Hollow is by looking at the photos. Love, M

These are just two of the ones posted. A visit to the site is well worth it.

Did you get?

From Myrna: Did you get the letter of recommendation from LHT for Michael?

From Amy: Yes, and thank you very much!  It was a very nice letter!

Also, thank you for the halloween package and treat $.  The kids always enjoy getting those!  And thank you for all the cd's!  Very much appreciated!

love,

Amy

From Myrna: You are welcome. However, after being with Kirsten and her family when they went to spend their dollars, I wonder if I should also include a dime each time so they have money for the tax. Kirsten had to dig up about 8-cents in tax for each of the dollars.

Love, M

---

From Amy:  You are fine with just the dollars!  Don't worry about it....especially out here, we don't have food tax!  LOL!  Besides, I think the dentist in Colorado can afford a few cents over the dollars the kids get!  ;D

Thanks again!

Amy

Waite Snow Fun Photos