Guy Sperry's Son

Police ID man killed in West Jordan crash

Police on Monday identified a man who died in a traffic crash Sunday afternoon in West Jordan.

Christopher Sperry, 21, of West Jordan, was turning his Geo Prism west from 9000 South onto 6400 West about 4:30 p.m., said West Jordan police Lt. Dean Waters. He pulled into the path of a southbound pickup, which T-boned his Geo Prism, Waters said. Both vehicles slid into a nearby field.

Sperry died at the scene.

The driver of the truck suffered minor injuries. Police do not suspect alcohol or drugs were involved.

The Salt Lake Tribune

About Hilton Family Cookbook‏

Myrna wrote: Did one of you not take your copy of the "Hilton Family Cookbook of the Century" home with you? I have a copy here that I think belongs to one of you but I am not certain who. Please let me know.


Melanie wrote: You had mine sent to me. I have it and use it frequently. Thanks. Melanie

Myrna wrote: Thank you! I wonder who still needs a copy. I guess I will have to call person by person. Thanks, honey. I love you!

Myrna: Did all of you not take your copy of the "Hilton Family Cookbook of the Century" home with you? I have three copies here but I am not certain who has one and who does not. (One per family.) I had them this summer so I may have been flaky enough that I did not get things done as I should have. I do know that I didn't keep track. Please let me know.

Todd wrote: You didn't send this to the whole family. Does this mean you identified the three who didn't take them home?

Myrna wrote: Nope! I asked Melanie the other day. She has hers. I just started with the out-of-staters first.

Todd wrote: I guess Payson is out of the state? LOL. Amy said we didn't get one. 

No. Eric just never reads his email. So I sent it to Amy J. OK, you don't have one. I will mail it. Eric does. I know Kirsten does because I sent hers with her at Christmas when she was here. 

Prices for 1955

House: $22,000
Average income: $4,137
Ford car: $1606-$2944
Milk: $.92
Gas: $.23
Bread $.18
Postage stamp: $.03
Sirloin chops: $ .69 lb.
Pot Roast: $.43 lb.
Eggs, doz.: $.61
Coffee: $.93 lb.
Milk, ½ gal. $.43
Potatoes, 10 lb. bag: $.53
Starkist Tuna, 6 ½ oz. can: $.25
Oreo cookies, 11¾ .oz pkg: $.39
Potato Salad, pint: $.29
Cracker Jack, 24 pac: $1.49
Apple cider,½ gal.: $.49
Gum Drops, 1½ lb. pkg: $.29
Ivory Soap, 2 bars: $.29
Mickey Mouse lunchbox: $.88
Slinky: $.88
Nylons, pair: $1.00
Home permanent: $1.50
Baseball Glove: $9.95

Kimberly wrote: I can still find eggs and nylons (imitation) for around the same price.

Myrna wrote: Me to! At the dollar store, I can find a lot of things for the same low price they were then. Most of them, except for the eggs, were made in China. What does that tell us?

Erin wrote: hey grandma we are soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo happy that you love the t shirts and the card. hope you have a great day. love ya erin and donovin.

Do you know what a plaxo is cause i have no idea and you sent me a mesage for it?

Myrna wrote: I like your many happy and silly faces. What wonderful grandchildren I have!!!!!! You are so special and we love you lots and lots.  (Hugs and kisses!)

Chair

Dad and I were planning on taking the chair you now have at your house to D.I. Then I noticed the folding chair in Alyssa's room and asked if she would like it. Afterward, Dad and I got thinking that she really didn't want it but was just being polite. We told her to tell you to go ahead and take it to D.I. if you didn't want it. We will be up, at 2 p.m., for me to go to the doctor. We will stop by and pickup the chair and finish our mission unless you want to keep it or have already carted it off. Let us know. Love, M


AnnMarie wrote: I put it at my desk downstairs.

Change of address for Don and Thelma

Don wrote: Hello to everyone. This letter is to inform you that my computer has been compromised again.
My new address is:  don trauntvein @ comcast.net. Please discard my HOTMAIL address.
Sorry about the problem.
 
 Have a great day
 Don and Thelma Trauntvein

To Erin, Donovin, Caydin, Arbree and David: Thank You!

Wow! We got the package and we are so happy!

We love the shirts. What artists you are. We will wear them with pride and, when we put them on, we will take a photo and send it to you so that you can see how good they look on us.

The card is amazing and is sitting on our piano. We will save it in our album. It must have taken a long time to make and we really do love it. Thank you.

We love each one of you, lots and lots and lots.


Grammy and Gramps

Thank you for the tickets to Peter Pan.

We had a wonderful night at Peter Pan! Thank you for the tickets AnnMarie, Julie, Kirsten and your families. 

The flying scenes were fantastic, the music was superb, the dancing was also so wonderful that we think that you should all run out and catch it the last day (29th). Every part was so well-done that we spent the whole time just marveling at the talent. We also had fun yelling, "We believe in fairies!"  (Even Dad!) The dog, a person, took off her head for the curtain calls. (Well, actually, one of the cast members took it off.) She was great! I still wonder she, as the crocodile, managed to crawl around and snap jaws at the same time. Of course, the scene-stealers were Peter, Wendy and Captan Hook. Smee was also great. I cannot believe the dances those pirates did: comic but with great skill. The Lost Boys and the Indians were also great. I think the whole thing was too wonderful to express. I'm glad that I don't have to review it for the paper. Who would you not compliment? Four pages later. . .

At one point, the set's drawer stuck and as Mrs. Darling struggled to open it and then Mr. Darling, in an effort to be helpful, jerked it from the case. They ad-libbed. He said the contents had all spilled and made more work for them. And she said they really needed to get that drawer fixed. 

BYU’s musical is based on the award-winning 1953 Broadway play. Music is by Moose Charlap, and lyrics are by Carolyn Leigh, with additional music by Jules Styne and additional lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, all Broadway legends. The director is Tim Threlfall.

 

Threlfall believes the play is an allegory for the creation of the world and the fall of Adam and Eve.

“On one level, Barrie’s classic adventure is an Adam-and-Eve parable,” Threlfall said in the program. "While Neverland is fun, exciting, adventurous and devoid of responsibility — much like the Garden of Eden — the Lost Boys are discontented there, like Eve.” 

“Even in their youthful innocence and naivete, the Lost Boys are willing to sacrifice eternal youth and freedom for something potentially more rewarding,” Threlfall said. “All the Lost Boys, as well as the Darling children, make a choice that sets them on the road to ‘eternal life’ rather than the ‘eternal existence’ of Neverland.”

The stage used a massive projection screen as the backdrop for a rather simple set. My, how great that set was. Various locations were projected onto this screen: starting and ending with the Darling family nursery, the rooftops of London and the jungles of Neverland to the deck of Captain Hook's ship and back to the nursery. Tinker Bell was a green laser light (or a beam of light of some sort). 

Peter was played by Bronwyn Tarboton. She must be an acrobat because she was a great flyer but also a very athletic dancer. She has a great voice as well. Ivan Hoffman was Captain Hook and Mr. Darling and I cannot express what a talent he is. Jillian Bjorn was Wendy, Joseph Thompson was Michael, Sam Bostwick was John, Lena Latu was Mrs. Darling, Daysha Hanneman was Tiger Lily, Jordan Dickison was Smee and Ari Strickland was Nana and the Crocodile. Tinkerbell also appears as an animation provided by Shane Hunt.

The program states that, "Other production staff members include musical director Gayle Lockwood, choreographer Pat Debenham, Jayna Butler, stage manager Lindsi Neilson, scenic designer Benjamin  Sanders, costume designer Shelby Luke, makeup and hair designers Shiloh White and Danielle Cluff, lighting designer Michael Handley and sound designer Troy Streeter. The actors’ flying moves are coached by Brad Allen. Rigging is by Flying by Foy."

This sounds so good!‏

Melanie wrote: I make this, but without so much garlic and no cayenne pepper. We top it with cheddar cheese as well. Very good. If you add a cup of frozen corn, it becomes similar to a corn chowder.
Mel

Baked Potato Soup

More Make It Fast, Cook It Slow (Hyperion, 2010) can serve as lunch, a first course, or a warm-up to a hearty dinner. Top the soup with bacon, green onions, or chives for an extra flavor kick.
Ingredients:
5 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced in 1- to 2-inch chunks
1 small onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 quarts chicken broth
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese
Crumbled bacon, green onion, or chives as garnish (optional)

Directions:
1. Use a 6-quart slow cooker. Put the potatoes into your stoneware insert, and add the onion and garlic. Sprinkle in the seasonings and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for eight hours, or on high for four hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender. You can use a potato masher or a handheld stick blender to mash the potatoes into the soup. You want to get rid of all large chunks of potato to make a smooth soup.
2. After smashing the potatoes, squeeze in both packages of cream cheese and replace the lid of your cooker. Cook on high for about 30 minutes, or until the cream cheese is completely dissolved, stirring a few times during this 30 minutes.
3. Garnish with crumbled bacon, green onion, or chives.
Serves 10

Myrna wrote: How about sharing the recipe? I am soup-hungry and you are a good soup-maker.

The Visit

So this week we had the opportunity of having Elder D. Todd Christofferson visit Nicaragua, and the missionaries of the Nicaragua Managua North Mission. We were not blessed with a lot of time with him, the time we had was rather amazing. All week was spent doing reports, preparing a little bit of information about the mission for Elder Christofferson, Elder Falabella and Elder Duarte (both members of the Quorum of the Seventy). Then I had another practice with the choir that I was directing/singing in. Very chaotic week, mainly because I was trying to do like twelve things all at the same time.

Then Thursday came. We got up early got all spiffed up, got to the chapel early. I practiced a little bit with the choir (because they decided to put mics up at the last minute, so we had to see how it sounded with the mics...LAME). When the meeting finally started I was so tired, yet as the meeting got going I was filled with energy and excitement to hear an Apostle of the Lord speak to me. The choir I was in sang "I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus" and it was fantastic. A number of people spoke, then Elder Christofferson stood up and first told us that as a choir we sang the best of any group of missionaries he had seen in the world. I cried a little bit. I was so nervous that the song was not going to sound like we would like it to sound, but apparently he was thoroughly impressed. What a miracle of faith that was.

He didn't really prepare a message for us, he simply wanted to answer any questions we might have had that he could answer for us. So, as a result we discussed the meaning of a testimony and conversion. In short, someone may have a testimony but may not be fully converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I never thought of it like that; often times we believe that the two come hand in hand, yet they do not. For instance, someone may say that they know that the Book of Mormon is true, but if they have a problem with the knowledge of living prophets, or do not pay their tithing, they are not truly converted. He told us that one easy way to know if we have been truly converted to the gospel if the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. If we have Him as our constant guide/help, it is evident that we are living in a way such that we are blessed to have a member of the Godhead dwell within us, to guide us, inspire us and comfort us.

Before leaving Nicaragua, Elder Christofferson made a statement to the Mission President about the mission. He said that he is content with the work that we are doing, and that we need to simply continue baptising families. He also said that when he walked into the chapel, he could feel the Spirit very strongly and that upon seeing our faces he was stunned. He said that there was a glow about the missionaries, and some of them truly shined. Something like "sus rostros brillaron", i.e. their countenances shone. It made me happy thinking that our mission made so much of an impact on him, hopefully he saw a bit of light in me too! :)

This week we have hit a milestone in the mission. We have baptized 68 families as a mission (282 baptisms). That is amazing. We have the highest amount of families baptized per mission in all of Latin America, quite possibly the world. I was AMAZED. We have been wanting this goal since October, and we have achieved it. Now I'm just finishing up some reports for the mission and making sure that they can be updated easier. But, OH MY GOSH. I was working on some reports Sunday evening and I noticed something odd...so I opened almost every single monthly report since June 2009. Upon reviewing the information I realized that every single month had problems with formulae, with numbers from the mission, and that every 3-6 months the entire format would change. I started thinking about how I might POSSIBLY be able to get around that problem, and I realized that the only way to do that would be to go through the baptismal registries that we have in another room (the dungeon) of the office. And, due to the limited time left (changes are next Tuesday), I am forced to just enter the poor information into the reports. Oh well, they just want them done, and I guess I'll finish them with the information that they have so graciously given me.

Well family, friends, countrymen, students.......I love you all so much. Thank you for your support and your love and prayers. I love this country, I love this Gospel, I love my Saviour and I know that He lives. I love the Book of Mormon and all of the wonderful stories, revelation and doctrine that is contains.

Until...well, Saturday! (hopefully I will actually get to email this Saturday)

From Erin

Hey grandma you should be getting a present in the mail soooooooon for yours and granpas birthday. it probebely wont get to you till soon its for your guyses birthday. we would have sent it earlier but we couldnt becuz we didnt have a box. well the forward part is becuz at school we are doing a fundraser called jump rope for heart. it takes heart to be a hero. you see its all about the ppl who cnt afford their heart surrgery like micha he is 8 and his heart  needed to be fixed so they had to put a tube into his throught to his heart. and jassly she is 9 and can only dream about playing basketball and riding her bike and also skating. Matt is 6 yrs and he has had heart surrgery 3 times. and Kaelyn is 6 yrs and she is a heart surrgery surviver. These ppl have special hearts and they need your help. So go americanheart.org/jump and change a life. if you dnt want to do this thats ok but plz pass on the word becuz these kids need your help and they need our help.
                                                                                         love your grandauhgter
                                                                                                 erin (D) lanora trauntvein


Myrna wrote: Thank you! I love your note and all of the faces, flowers, kisses and love. You are a special girl. You didn't even hint at what that present might be. So now we will just have to wonder.

I will go to the americanheart.org/jump and change a life. I will also tell everyone else about it. It sounds like a good thing to do.

We love you very much and we miss getting to see you very often. Hug your brothers for us and give yourself a hug from us.

Erin wrote: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH WELL ME AND DONOVIN DID WORK HARD ON THE PRESENTS AND THE CARD. WE ARE SOOO GLAD THAT YOU LOVE THEM AND ARE WEARING THEM WITH PRIDE! and i dooo think it is wonderfule that we all are changing lives. it is a wonderfule site and fundraiser. donovin and i miss you too a lot so hav us in your mind and we will have you in our mind forever. we all love you lots and lots aand lost! Have fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It was our stake conference.

They released our stake patriarch, Clark Greenhalgh, from active duty. He, of course, will always be a patriarch but he will not give blessings except to his family. The new stake patriarch is Alan Kenison, who is also a temple sealer. He will do both jobs. All of his family was present. Can you imagine? He can give blessings to his grandchildren and can also marry them in the temple. He is such a wonderful man. That is one of those calls that you know comes from Heavenly Father.

Phyllis Kenison, Dale's wife, was also sustained as a counselor in the new stake Relief Society Presidency. Dale is also a temple sealer.

The Office

So, special assignment Elder Bolton here for the update on the work here in the office. Here, things are so much more different than the real mission field. I have a love/hate relationship with the work here, as I am sat in front of a computer typing up LOTS of reports. I have gotten to know every area here in the mission, and now I am getting to know every single missionary. I am doing a lot of reports and seeing lots of numbers and as a result have gone slightly mad, just a little. ;) But I have realized something, I do not think that I could do a serious office job. I might die. Being stuck in front of a computer all day looking at reports, numbers, calling people about missing information, getting blamed for discrepancies when I use the numbers that I'm given. Yeah, stuff like that. Yet I would not trade these experiences for anything. Anyway, I am thinking about changing whatever idea I had about going into business. My life lies beyond the confines of an office and a computer, I believe.

I have been reading my Patriarchal Blessing a lot more frequently as well. I find it rather interesting that two brief pages can keep my so entertained and so happy. I am grateful for the fountain of revelation that comes from such a sacred document. I am also grateful for the Book of Mormon as I know that it truly is the word of God and that it has the power to help us to change our lives. I learn so much from reading just one chapter a day that I am amazed how many parts of my life can become better based on serious application of the lessons in the Book of Mormon.

I also have to admit how much fun I have had here with the other Secretary and the Financier. We are currently in a trio, but it is so much fun. It is interesting how relationships are formed so fast in the mission and how three missionaries can get to be such good friends in a week's time. On our P-Day (Saturday) we played tennis, we went out and got Sushi while the APs and President were gone in Matagalpa. In short, we are tight like unto a dish. ;) We get along really well, and we have fun teaching the few investigators that we have.

Well, I shall take lots of new photos thanks to the new camera that I have (thanks Mom and Dad)! You should all enjoy them so very much. 

Love ya lots,

Elder B

Wondering

Myrna wrote: Dad keeps thinking that with the skills of Brandon, Todd and Howard, there might be a way to set up a business that all of these men in vulnerable jobs might be good at. They would be the owners and would make a good living but would not be beholden to business owners because they would be the owners.

I always remember that my grandmother would say, "Never go into business with friends because, when you are done, they won't be."

AnnMarie wrote: Even if you started a business, they would be vulnerable.  So many start-ups fold every day.  Look a Brandon's brother Kalen, he lost everything.  There are no guarantees.  In fact, since Todd and Brandon are still employed at a great pay, they might be even more vulnerable leaving that for a start-up.   

www.ldsjobs.org

Myrna sent: LDS Conference Preview: Church offers help to job seekers

If you have found yourself out of work recently, are looking to improve your skills, or are returning to the work force after raising a family, a website offered through The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may be able to help.

The new site, www.ldsjobs.org, is designed to help people find resources to improve their situation, said Brenda Smith, manager of the website.

The site offers hundreds of tips, articles and information about how to approach a job search, how to choose a field of study and how to improve your job performance.

Melanie wrote: Thanks. Howard filled out the form in November or December. He has been checking with them every week. The Employment Specialist Missionaries for our area are going to be in our ward next week. Howard has an appointment with them already. 

Thanks Mom.

Mel

Wonder

Myrna wrote: Are you feeling better after a few days of adjustment? Dad and I just want you to remember that we love you. 

I don't know whether you read my reply to your email or not. I hope you know that it was sent with great love and concern. I admire you so very much. You are a great woman. I would like to be more like you and I just wanted you to know that. I will always love you!!!!!

Melanie wrote: Still reeling from the blow. I am not crying so much anymore. I never cry around Howard, as he feels so horrible about letting me down, that I don't need to add to his worry. Church was a help. The temple opens tomorrow (but because of young women stuff I won't be able to go), Howard and I have a breakfast date to go on Wednesday morning. 27 years of marriage has taught me a few things, but this one is so new, I will be looking for clues daily. 

Thank you for your encouragement and your love. This is a lot more tough than any of the illnesses that have ever faced me. I am trying to figure out why I can't fight it like I have everything else...

Love, 

Mel

Question

I did get BOTH cards! Thank you so much for the money grandma! It helps get some really good food out here (seriously, a Sushi roll at a nice restaurant is like $5)!

On Tue, Jan 11, 2011 at 12:27 AM, L H and Myrna Trauntvein wrote:

Did you get the Christmas card and the money?

Did you hear? Auntie Julie is having a baby giraffe? That's what Stephanie told me. "Guess what, Grammy, Mommy is having a baby giraffe."

Lots of love, Grammy and Gramps

Be of Good Cheer

Myrna wrote: We are willing to take over the payments for Bradon's mission. We love you dearly. You stood by us all of the times we needed you.


Melanie wrote: Julie offered to help as well. We are okay for now and need the blessings of paying for Braden's mission. If Howard doesn't find work in the near future, we might need to have help with the mission payments. Julie and Jim offered to help as well. So did AnnMarie and Brandon.

Thanks Mom. My heart hurts, my head hurts, my stomach hurts...I am so scared.

Mel


Myrna wrote: If you remember, Dad and I faced a bad situation many years ago. I think it was when Benjamin (or was it Braden) was born. Dr. Wright didn't want Dad to be principal any more  and, instead, wanted him to be a high school counselor and the district director of risk management with the charge of bringing the district into ADA compliance. Dad was really qualified for those jobs. I cried all the way home from Nebraska. Actually, looking back, it may have been for the best. Dad loved the jobs and there was not the constant pressure. Our income did not suffer. The next principal proved what an excellent one Dad was. Dad brought the district into compliance with the new requirements for the disabled. He also started some innovative career counseling programs that have benefitted district students. We are praying that this will also be a "closed door--open window" in your lives. Howard is so brilliant and so talented and knows so many things that I am sure he will find something even better. I've wondered for years why he wasn't a teacher. I know, the pay is not as good, but he would be so great at a college. He could even be a professional photographer. I think that your choices are limitless. In addition, you, yourself, are bright and young. You can do many things. You can go back to your job, that you loved, working with old people (like me).

I still remember what a comfort you were to me then. You were not only my loving daughter but my good friend when I badly needed one. Thanks for all you are to me.

I love you, Dad loves you, your siblings love you and, most importantly, Heavenly Father loves you and so does your Savior. We are all in your corner. I know that the members of your ward are grateful for you and love you as well. You have made them part of your family and they will be good to you now.

Jim said the best thing that ever happened to him was the year that his father didn't have a job. He grew up and faced reality. Perhaps that will be so in the lives of your children. Although, I am certain, Howard will not be without work for that long. He was looking for a job when he found this one. I hope this doesn't sound like a long note of platitudes. I really believe what I am writing.

Just remember, when it comes to the mission, we ALL need the blessings that come to our family from Braden's service.

Go take a couple of aspirin, pray and then just stand back and watch the miracles.

Charlotte Writes About Laurel's Move

Oh, Happy Belated Birthday Leonard,  feel bad that I did not get a card off to you.  We love you and hope you will share some of your birthday events with us.

Tom especially has had a growing discomfort with the cold winters and the closer he gets to the day of retirement I do believe the more anxious he gets about moving to a warmer place. Tom has arthritis and has for some time.  Laurel seems close to our cousin Elaine Lubbe Johnson through the years and  decided after a few places didn't develope for them in Las Vegas they would join the many who are building in Mesquite.

Perhaps a ride one day this Spring to there new place would be a fun time?  Stay over with them. ( Wally will now go to testing in SLC the 18th of February, weather maybe better by then for us to venture.)

Guess they are able to use the golf course there as well for very little as it is sorta in the neighborhood where they have the new house.  It is finished and as time permits they will take things from Price down and leave them and stay over and etc.  Don't know what they will do with the Price home.  He maybe has a couple years I thought, but maybe  retires earlier? They are not far from Vegas and close to St George where his oldest sister lives and they have a very close niece, Denise, and her husband who I believe live in Vegas as well.

Tonight  I have dinner tickets for me and the Wally from Lifes Kitchen, a culinary school here that does a fabulous job of catering weddings and special events.  It is the dinner for the Idaho Watercolor Society Winter Social. It will at the Woods, a member's home that holds as many as 70 guests and it is gated.  We have an exchange.  Each member attending must present one of their  original minature watercolours with mat and wrapping as an exchange fun.  I must go now and get that done,  gee, hate to feel rushed! Just remembered that part, dang...

God Bless,  and Happy Birthday Tim.    Love you folks, Char and Wally

P.S. Did you get your computer virus fixed?  Laurel thinks you and I both have a virus so she won't open anything I send.  Told her we have a Mac.  Anyway, she doen't do much of anything on the computer, just Tom.  Oh well, if I ever have a visit I will try to help her although most of what I know isn't all that much so its good to help someone who has "0" computer skills and they would perhaps appreciate.  Ha! Send to Cyd too but they never respond.  Take care.


Myrna wrote: I have a Mac. My computer virus wasn't a computer virus. It was an email virus and was on MSN.com. All I had to do was change my password so I am all better. I think the sisters just don't like computers. I have to like them. I would be in a sad state working for a newspaper if I did not.

I honestly get poor Wally's b-day card sent late every year. Is it better late than never or not? Your dinner sounds like a great excuse to have wonderful food, lots of fun and celebrate a birthday all in one. LHT got two birthday dinners. We had one, just by ourselves. I even fixed a cake with candles. On Sunday, we had one with the kids.

Thanks for the news about Laurel's reasons for moving. You know, I thought Tom had about one year before retirement. He may get days off for service. I don't know.

I have a meeting tonight. Great fun! I have the great joy :) of attending Mona City Council meeting. I feel like a fragile blossom among cowboys on horseback when I go to Mona meetings. Ah, well. I'd best be on my way.

Still Laughing Because Julie Is Having a Giraffe

Myrna Trauntvein: A two-year old granddaughter of mine breaking the news about a new baby. "Grammy guess what? Mommy is going to have a baby giraffe!"

Kirsten Trauntvein Waite: Hey, that's what I got too! Well, I guess you could explain that extra part that way. ;)

Myrna Trauntvein: It's certainly better than a hippo!

Amy Trauntvein: Love it, too cute! So happy for Julie and Jim. Is Jim still floating on cloud nine?

Myrna Trauntvein: Jim has one of those faces that doesn't hide emotion well. So, yes, he is still beaming. He had the same look when he first saw Julie. I guess like mother like daughter, in this case, she has been so sick and still feels icky to the tummy. My boys all did that to me.

Jim actually called his mom and dad while they were waiting to pay the bill so they missed out on the giraffe story.

Mayna Lovell Burnside: Congrats to Julie and Jim.

Myrna Trauntvein: Thank you! Do you think they will make good parents for a boy giraffe?

Mayna Lovell Burnside: sure they will. This little boy giraffee was a long time coming and there will be plenty of big sisters to help. We are happy for them

So much fun that you facebook non-fans have to see it.‏

Melanie wrote: Notice the mother snowman's nose in the cartoon...where did the carrots for the jell-o salad come from?

Amy Wooten Brown: OH MY ... I love this. We mom's are always the martyrs!
WAIT ... or does this mean we cut off our noses to spite our faces?

Melanie Trauntvein Bolton: Maybe it could mean that some moms sacrifice everything for a good potluck dish!

Myrna Trauntvein: I should put this up on the fridge.

Shawn Kimberly Trauntvein: love it.

Andrew Bolton: such a statement tells the world you are a mormon from Utah!

Myrna Trauntvein: Or, at least, from the USA. From Texas to Massachusetts, all Mormons love that jell-o. At least, the ones I know do and not all of those folks came from Utah.

Amy Wooten Brown: Okay well does that include NC? Because I for one have a HUGE issue with vegetables in my jello ... fruits too for that matter!
Cool Whip! That is ALL that should ever be on jello!

Melanie Trauntvein Bolton: Fruited/vegied jell-o salad pretty much is exclusive to Utah/Idaho/Wyoming Mormons. British people love fruit and cake in their jell-o and they top it with custard and whipped cream...so, I think our love of things in jell-o can be attributed to that large influx of Brits in the 1800s.

Amy Wooten Brown: Then somehow Id like to blame my lack of appreciation for fruit/veggie filled jello on my lovely ancestors who decided the trek west was just too hard for them... come to think of it ... I have a LIST of things that I could blame on my ancestors who didn't trek west...too bad there is that convert thing! ; )

Myrna Trauntvein: Add Colorado and Texas to that list, Mel. I am the ONLY Mormon in Utah, that I know of, who prefers jell-o with NOTHING in it. I like whipping cream, whipped, on top.

Melanie Trauntvein Bolton: I never was a fan of the carrot-raisin-pineapple orange jell-o, with mayonnaise topping...most of us can say, "GROSS!"

Jeanette Knighton Stephens commented on Shawn Trauntvein Family

Hi Myrna,
Jeanette Knighton Stephens wrote:  "Funny thing! We had Dane in our 10-11 yr old boys group at Family Camp the second year that they had it and worked with Shawn and Kimberly who were part of the family camp staff that year. We have just seen them around through the years in other scout activities. When I saw your last name, I thought you had to be related to him and you had a Shawn listed as one of your kids on Facebook. Nice to meet you!!! Fun family. We loved having Dane in our group."

Craziness

So this last week has been super crazy. I had lots of crazy experiences with my companion and with the families in my branch/the families that I've been teaching. One interesting thing that happened is that I took  a bus to the other end of Managua and didn't know what was happening until I didn't get off at the stop that I was supposed to get off at. When we got off the bus I told my companion to follow me onto the other but that would do that route in reverse...after all was said and done we got back 2 hours later a little scared and a little jarred up (mainly because of the drunk guy that was getting WAY too close to me).

 

It sounds like a LOT has been happening at home over the past week. Never lose focus on the important things in life: 1. our forever families, 2. trials will pass, 3. LOVE EVERYONE. Seriously, we as human beings need to love more and provide more service to those around us. As we try and love those that are around us and invite them to church or to listen to the missionaries we provide service for them that many cannot provide, and we reap many blessings.

 

I love this mission, I love my branch and love my investigators, but, yet again, the Lord has called me to another part of the vineyard. For the time being I am in the office of the mission helping doing some secretarial things before the apostle comes to Nicaragua. The Lord taught me a lot in my last area and with my last companion. I will work hard wherever the Lord has placed me, but sometimes it's hard how I'm just ripped out of the areas and everything. I'll learn to get over that.

 

I love you all so much and pray for you all the time. I have been praying for Uncle Phil and his family, I know that the Lord will take care of his family. I love my Saviour Jesus Christ and I love the Book of Mormon so much. I also love the opportunity that we have withtin this church to always progress, change, become better.

 

Work hard, love even harder.

Elder B

 

P.s. Idea for the week: start a gratitude journal!

Questions for Melanie

Myrna wrote:
1. How is Howard's brother? Is he getting better? It sounds like he inherited his dad's heart problems. 

I just hope that I didn't inherit my female family's short (Great-Grandma Smith, 72, Grandma Edna, 78 and Aunt Renee, 71) lifespans. Great-Grandma Ruth lived to be 84, Great-Great Grandma Mina lived to be 81, G-G-Great Grandma Mary was 75; G-G-Grandma Susan was 57; and G-G-Grandma Ida Pearl was 76. I'm holding out for 100. :) 

2. I only enclosed $5 in Bradon's Christmas card. If he got it, I thought I would send the rest that way ($5 at a time) and if not, then I would just send you the money. I haven't had an answer though I have asked. I guess he is too busy being an ELDER to worry about it. I will send you the $25 tomorrow. I will send letters by mail as well as by email because I know they don't have much time on the computer. But I won't put in money.

Melanie wrote: Howard's brother has had some set backs. He suffered from stomach flu last week, the developed plueresy, and pneumonia. They want him better before they send him home. All the children have some problems with heart, cholesterol and the related factors. 

Kim and Shawn sent us money and we put it in Braden's bank account. He has his debit card with him and can access his own money when he needs. It's easier that way. The bank does all the fee changes. 

Thanks Mom. I hope you are feeling better. I am still waiting to get my yearly bronchitis. It will come when I have the least time to deal with it...so I am trying to figure out when I will be busier than I am. I have four callings right now: Seminary teacher, substitute Sunday School teacher (I have taught every lesson so far), Young Women 2nd Counselor and Visiting Teacher. As a young mother I waited for the time that my children would be teenagers, so that I could deal with my callings better. Hmmmm...

Love you.

Melanie

I really am going to live.

I really am going to live.

Unless a truck hits me, I should make it through this. I have coughed so much that my ribs hurt and Dr. Mark Jones said that I will likely cough another few weeks. Great! At least I do not have pneumonia. My apologies to all who were here on New Year's Day. The rest of you are lucky that you escaped. This hit about Tuesday, which means that I was probably coming down with it earlier.

I ended up having x-rays of my lungs because I am old. My lungs are clear, of course. I think the doctor even knew that when he sent me to the lab. What I have is Acute Bronchitis.

Symptoms usually include (and I have them all):

A cough, which is the main symptom of acute bronchitis. It may be dry at first (does not produce mucus) and after a few days may bring up mucus from the lungs (productive cough). The mucus may be clear, yellow, or green. Sometimes, small streaks of blood may be present.

A mild fever, usually less than 101 F. A higher fever may indicate pneumonia. (Mine was 101.)

A general feeling of tiredness. (What's new?)

A sensation of tightness, burning, or dull pain in the chest under the breastbone that usually is worse when breathing deeply or coughing.

Whistling noises (wheezing) when breathing, especially during physical exertion. (Oh, you mean walking!)

Hoarseness.

Most cases of acute bronchitis in otherwise healthy people last only 2 to 3 weeks. But more than 20% of people with acute bronchitis have a cough that lasts more than 4 weeks.

Often it is hard to tell the difference between viral and bacterial forms of acute bronchitis, and many conditions have symptoms similar to acute bronchitis, such as asthma and pneumonia. Because pneumonia can be a serious complication, it is important to know the differences between acute bronchitis and pneumonia. For example, a high fever, shaking chills, and shortness of breath often occur with pneumonia but not with acute bronchitis.

Dr. Jones decided to give me an antibiotic because it seemed as though I have a bacterial form. It worked, so I guess he was right. I am feeling like I might live and, except for coughing fits that last several minutes and take the breath away, I am doing well.

Dad thought I had pneumonia which is why he insisted that I go to the doctor.

At any rate, I am not contagious anymore. 

Sorry about exposing all of you. 

Love, M


*We love you, and sure hope you get better soon. -Shawn

President Pinegar‏

AnnMarie wrote:

Mom,

I did not have luck contacting President Pinegar through Facebook.  Would you please help me find out if he would be willing and able to speak to the Provo East Stake youth at our youth conference this summer?  We will be dorming at Snow College June 21-23.  On the 21st we will be attending the pageant.  If he is wondering, our stake presidency is President Randal J. Christiansen, counselors Stephen Hales and Mark D. Palmer.  Many of our YM/YW leaders were in the MTC when he was president there and would really enjoy our youth having the opportunity to listen to him.

Thanks,

AnnMarie

I really am going to live.‏

Unless a truck hits me, I should make it through this. I have coughed so much that my ribs hurt and Dr. Mark Jones said that I will likely cough another few weeks. Great! At least I do not have pneumonia. My apologies to all who were here on New Year's Day. The rest of you are lucky that you escaped. This hit about Tuesday, which means that I was probably coming down with it earlier.

I ended up having x-rays of my lungs because I am old. My lungs are clear, of course. I think the doctor even knew that when he sent me to the lab. What I have is Acute Bronchitis.

Symptoms usually include (and I have them all):

A cough, which is the main symptom of acute bronchitis. It may be dry at first (does not produce mucus) and after a few days may bring up mucus from the lungs (productive cough). The mucus may be clear, yellow, or green. Sometimes, small streaks of blood may be present.

A mild fever, usually less than 101 F. A higher fever may indicate pneumonia. (Mine was 101.)

A general feeling of tiredness. (What's new?)

A sensation of tightness, burning, or dull pain in the chest under the breastbone that usually is worse when breathing deeply or coughing.

Whistling noises (wheezing) when breathing, especially during physical exertion. (Oh, you mean walking!)

Hoarseness.

Most cases of acute bronchitis in otherwise healthy people last only 2 to 3 weeks. But more than 20 percent of people with acute bronchitis have a cough that lasts more than 4 weeks.

Often it is hard to tell the difference between viral and bacterial forms of acute bronchitis, and many conditions have symptoms similar to acute bronchitis, such as asthma and pneumonia. Because pneumonia can be a serious complication, it is important to know the differences between acute bronchitis and pneumonia. For example, a high fever, shaking chills, and shortness of breath often occur with pneumonia but not with acute bronchitis.

Dr. Jones decided to give me an antibiotic because it seemed as though I have a bacterial form. It worked, so I guess he was right. I am feeling like I might live and, except for coughing fits that last several minutes and take the breath away, I am doing well.

Dad thought I had pneumonia which is why he insisted that I go to the doctor.

At any rate, I am not contagious anymore. 

Sorry about exposing all of you. 

Love, M

Just So You Know About Genealogy. . .

Myrna wrote: The genealogy lines on my side of the family, mostly the Pitts and Edwards lineage where we went back to Adam (Hehehe), have been corrected on Ancestory.com. We no longer go back to Adam. Oh, well, sad though it may be, it is all checked and doubled checked and is as correct as I know how to make it until I find another mistake. I am not having as much luck with new.familysearch.org. Several lines have holds on them and it takes longer to correct that information. I am now trying to get Elizabeth Brewster married to the right man, Thomas Emerson. I will keep you posted as to how that works. So many family members have put in conflicting information and names that there is a hold on her name. I am working through that, I hope.


Melanie wrote: Mom,

That is still amazing! Thank you for doing all this work. 

I hope that your cough gets better really soon and that you will be able to sleep better. 

I love you.
Mel

Shawn wrote: Yes, thank you so much. I guess I will have to update my gedcom’s again.

Tom and Laurel Move

All three of you, my dear sisters, wrote about Tom and Laurel's move. None of you said why they are moving. Also, are they keeping their home in Price or selling? I have been going to call but I have a terrible cough. I cannot seem to stop and I didn't want to call and hack away. The doctor said that his other patients with this rotten cough have kept hacking away for up to four weeks. Mine just started on Dec. 27 so I have awhile, I guess. I am OK if I don' talk. Cruel and unusual punishment in my case. :)

Confirmation: Your AAA Membership Gift Purchase‏ From Melanie Bolton

Melanie wrote: I gave it to him last year, and thought that I would just renew it for his gift this year. AAA is amazing. You can actually use it in conjunction with your AARP card, as well. I am debating putting you on it. I think I might call and add you. They will fix your flat tires, jump start your batteries, tow, bring gasoline, etc. It's a good thing to have while your traveling around to your children's homes.

I hope you have a wonderful Sunday. We'll call later. It's our Ward Conference today, so we might call tonight.

Mel

 Confirmation: Your AAA Membership Gift Purchase

Date: 01/08/2011

Dear Leonard Trauntvein,

Welcome to AAA! This email confirms that Melanie Bolton has purchased a new AAA Membership for you. We look forward to delivering you excellent service.

Gift Recipient Name Member Type Membership Number
Leonard Trauntvein Primary 4290051082794516

Membership Level: AAA Plus RV
Your Membership is valid through 01/08/2012.
Please note: There is a 48-hour waiting period for road service benefits. All other Member benefits are available immediately.


Melanie Bolton wrote: Happy Birthday Dad!

Get the most from your AAA Membership-register now for full access to AAA.com.
Save money with exclusive online discounts
Easily pay AAA bills at the touch of a button
Manage your Membership and AAA Insurance policies
Renew, upgrade or add Associates to your Membership

As a Member, now you can enjoy the benefits, convenience and peace of mind that only AAA delivers: exclusive Member discounts, America's fastest roadside assistance, free AAA maps and Tourbook® guides, a world-wide travel agency and much more.

Your Membership cards should arrive in 1 - 2 weeks. You can print temporary Membership cards now.

If you have questions about your Membership or benefits, please email membership@aaaemail.com.

Again, welcome to AAA. We look forward to serving you.

The AAA Team


Myrna wrote: Wow! That is quite a gift. Thank you very, very much! We love you!!!!!!!


I don't think you need to add me. There are very few times when Dad and I are not together. Sometimes that is a sad thing. I had to give him money for Christmas because every time I would plan to go shopping he found a reason to come with me. :)

Thomas V. Pitts and Ruth Edwards Marriage

Utah Marriages, 1887-1966
Search collection
groom's name: Thomas V. Pitts
groom's birth date: 1894
groom's birthplace: Of Myton, Duchesne, Utah
groom's age: 21
bride's name: Ruth Edwards
bride's birth date: 1896
bride's birthplace: Of Myton, Duchesne, Utah
bride's age: 19
marriage date: 30 Nov 1915
marriage place: Myton, Duchesne, Utah
groom's father's name:
groom's mother's name:
bride's father's name:
bride's mother's name:
groom's race:
groom's marital status: Unknown
groom's previous wife's name:
bride's race:
bride's marital status: Single
bride's previous husband's name:
indexing project (batch) number: M73486-3
system origin: Utah-EASy
source film number: 481113
reference number: bk1 cn44

From Gertrud Jensen a Forward on Having a Happy New Year in 2011

Hej Gertrud

Vi håber du er kommet godt ind i det nye år. Vi glæder os til at besøge dig i januar.

KH Ole og Ulla

The photos are priceless.

Happy New Year throughout all of 2011... 

  

May you always make the right moves.

May your cup runneth over with love.

May you always find shelter from any storm.

May you remain good looking and looking good!

May you find the perfect diet for your soul.

 

May you find perfect balance in the company you keep.

May you have as much fun as you can before someone makes you stop.

May the worst thing that happens to you come in slobbery pink and furry tan.

May you manage to make time for siesta.

May all the new folks you meet be interesting and kind.

May your accessories always harmonize with your natural beauty!

Should your mouth be bigger than your stomach, may you have a chewing good time!

May you always know when to walk away and know when to run. 

And may your friends always bring you joy!

 HAVE A HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR 

 

Happy New Year throughout all of 2011...‏Gertrud Jensen

Dear L&M Trauntvein.

 

Thank you for letter and Christmas card. It is interesting to hear about your family and your life together.

 

We have had a lot of snow throug december, and 2 days before Christmas Eve, storm and snow together. Train and fly was cancelled,

and people was late for Christmas. And we still have snow.

 

We have got a new Missionpresident, Jens Hjarup Andersen, former stakepresident, danish, and born in the Church. Fine.

 

I will tell you that I am thanksfull for my membership of the Church, and i know that the Gospel is true, and I have a Father in heaven

and Jesus is Christ.

 

Me and my pace-maker is fine.

 

With best regards

 

Gertrud Jensen

There is a reason I use this site for newspaper photos. . .Myrna‏

Myrna to Pat Edwards (pe.socalsis@gmail.com): There is a reason I use this site. It actually sends the photos.

Howard Pitts, on left

Aunt Pat Lubbe Pitts

Robert, Howard, Thomas Pitts

Charles, Edsel, and Edwards Parents

Howard Pitts and Edwards Grandparents 

Howard and his parents, Ruth and Tom

Howard and his parents, Ruth and Tom

Dorothy

Grandpa and Grandma Edwards

Ruth and Tom Pitts

 Ruth Edwards Pitts and her brother, Charles Edwards

Edwards

To Pat Edwards--Some Edwards Photos

Myrna wrote:

Howard Pitts and Sisters

Ruth Edwards Pitts and Charles Edwards

Great Grandpa and Great Grandma Edwards

Charlotte Pitts 

Mom, Dad, Tina at Party

Tom Pitts and Ruth Edwards Pitts

I hope this doesn't end up in your junk file. . .Myrna‏

A gift!

To: Leonard and Myrna from Kenneth Anderson, Denmark

Give yourself an "after holiday gift" here:

         http://www.noniusers.com/ken/launch

Remember: "You miss all the shots you don't take."

Hope the New Year is Happy and prosperous for you and yours!

Kenneth Anderson

Two men in a conversation.‏

Are they planning to save the world?

Todd wrote: Caption: “I don’t know if we can get away with that. Grandma’s faster than you think. I know that for sure.”

Myrna wrote: Hmm, that may be exactly what they are saying.


Kirsten wrote: Maybe it's, "I don't know.  Emma's haircut isn't too bad; maybe we should ask Mary for a trim."

"I know right where the toenail scissors are."

Melanie wrote: Hahaha...Kirsten...what to even say to that?


Myrna wrote: Kirsten, are you referring to the recent double haircut day at Grandma's? Who knew that toenail scissors, the only ones that Grammy didn't hide, could do such a good job? Grammy would have been using them to cut Grandpa's hair all these years if she had only known.


AnnMarie wrote:
Jacob:  "No, really.  If you fall off the kitchen table it doesn't hurt too bad."
Matthew: "I don't know about that, I've never fallen that far."
Jacob:  "No. It's great fun.  Grandma screams, Auntie runs fast, and Mom says, 'Get up, Jakey."
Matthew:  "For excitement, I think I'll stick with trying to get Kyle in trouble. . . .  Wait, Grandma screams?  Hmmmm...."

Kirsten wrote: Hahaha!  Another highly possible scenario!

Familia

Buenas Tardes!

This week has just flown by me. Seriously the weeks seem to fly by almost like days now. I hit my seven month mark last week and now I feel comfortable in the mission (with regard to the time, not talkin about "all's well in zion" here).
I had to do a lot wih numbers for the week, so i don't have a lot of time to write, but I love you all so very much and wish the best of success for you all. I am having a blast in my area now, as i am working so much more with the members, doing more service and everything. We're getting more successful references from the members and we had a baptism this week. (very interesting will have to report next week)
I got the card from grandma, a bpackage from Dear Elder and a package from the ward/branch. Way cool stuff.
Love you all,
Elder B

Hey, Its About Maddie

Todd wrote: Look what I found today:

http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/south/payson/article_4a99518e-1bdb-58f7-9d67-86181afe17ba.html

Maddie!

Myrna wrote: Thank you, Todd, and congratulations Maddie. Way to go!!!!!!


December Park View Students of the Month announced
Story Posted: Thursday, December 30, 2010 12:03 am

To earn the award of Student of the Month, students excel in Reading, Math, Spelling, working hard, perfect attendance or being a friend to everyone. Congratulations to all the students who were selected by their teachers for their achievements.

Kindergarten Students:Alex Rasmussen, Evelyn Corno, Calvin Larsen, Colby Rigby, Lizzie Jensen, Amelia Adams, Britney Ottesen, Jack Mecham, Alexis Yates, Trevyn Huff, Brook Clark, Allie Young.

First Grade:Brandt Peterson, Allie Radmall, Abby Westling, Hannah Hinton, Cristian Rodgriguez, Curtis Tolman, Landon Serynek, Karen Plascencia, Ethan Dixon, Joslyn Page, Alayna Burton, Desiree Barker.

Second Grade: Abigail Jaussi, Carter Craghead, Taylor Brothersen, Tessa Peterson, Kassidy Powell, Olivia Adams, David Gull, Izzy Yama, Sydney Hill, Kingston Rains, Tristan Nez.

Third Grade: Michael Roberts, McKenna Wright, Anna Turner, Mikey Gonzalez, Braxton Hall, Madison Carroll, Case Kunz, Abigail Orozco, Stuart Charles, Jane Rice, Kenzie White.

Fourth Grade: Michell Belem, Sara Wiberg, Tyler Caldwell, Logan Green, Amanda Hughes, Camren Rowlette, Stadler King, Brinley Dustin, Ashland Lowder, Pete Syme, Wendy Camba, Daniel Chapman.

Fifth Grade: Daniel Chapman, Luke Eddington, Brayden Bahr, Joslyn Taylor, Allie Hayward, Kelley Cluff, Robbie Ewell, Ashley Vargas, Josh Walton, Mollie Brown, Rylie Cunningham, Curtis Mower.

Sixth Grade: Justin Riley, Kortnie Walker, Isabeau'l Cloward, James Caron, Anne Kranenburg, Maddie Trauntvein, Jessica Rowlette, Sarah Hansen, Eduardo Camba.

2011 Daily Herald

AnnMarie Saw an Accident

Myrna wrote: Dad remembered that you were the one who had seen the accident and not Eric. I couldn't remember which of you saw it. Anyway, Sgt. Nick Bowles doesn't know about it. He asked me to provide him with more information so he could look it up. Which day that you came down was it? New Year's Eve or New Year's Day?

AnnMarie wrote: The car appeared to have been totaled.  It was daytime, but I can't remember which day.  Road crew was filling in potholes by shovel.  It was southbound and involved a truck and a car (red?) in the #1 lane.  Perhaps it doesn't stand out to Sgt Bowles because there was no personal injury to the occupants.  Might be a non-story.

From Helen

Helen wrote:
Hi, folks: pray you have all had a special Christ filled season and have a New Year of love, accomplishments and growth in the Gospel. Also for you a very happy birthday Myrna- thanks for the family news letter- is a keeper.
Myrna, thank you for your thoughtfulness in adding my name to the plaxo address book- I have not clicked on accepting this as it is not my desire to have any information on the internet, except for the immediate family/friends for my e-mail address. Pray you are all safe with the wonderment of the winter wonderlane we have had. Love you much- again thank you for the caramels- really, really good, Nanci was home with me for a few days and took some on her flight home . Love Helen