Christie's Blog

~Wrapping Up the Holidays~

2011-12-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

It's been a Wonderful Year!

Even without a White Christmas!

I don't remember a December without snow!

We're hoping to have our Annual Snow Party in January.

Cody is planning on coming home and we hope to get
all our family together.

Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow!!!

Do you ever wonder....
After the year is over and a new one begins...
Have you made a difference...
have you changed for the better?
I found this writing in some of my journal papers.
I asked myself if I had done any
of these small acts this year?
I had a good feeling when reading them!

How about you?

mend a quarrel.

Seek out a forgotten friend.

Write a love letter.

Share some treasure. Give a

soft answer. Encourage youth.

Keep a promise. Find the time.

Forgive an enemy. Listen.

Apologize if you were wrong.

Think first of someone else.

Be kind and gentle.

Laugh a little. Laugh a little more.

Express your gratitude. Gladden

the heart of a child. Take pleasure

in the beauty and wonder of the earth.

Speak your love. Speak it again.

Speak it still once again.

Anonymous

These things are not difficult to do, you just need to

think outside your space and be kind, thoughtful, encouraging and

have a good heart.

As I look back on this year, I am thankful for my

family and friends that have helped make this year complete.
Our family has been blessed!
Let's all....
In the year 2012...
continue to make a difference and
be a better person.

This year brought many
memorable moments...

Me with my grandchildren...
l-r, Carson holding Quentin, me holding Mac, Krew, trying to wake up,
McKenzie, Corbin and Dylan holding Deagan.
We missed having...Samantha, Tanzynn and Ty

My twins, Carson and McKenzie turned "13" years old this year.

Mother turned "90" years old this year.
Isn't she beautiful?

We had a surprise birthday party for her on the
weekend of the 4th of July.
The whole family was there except...Cody Pearce
It's amazing....
All because two people fell in love...

I'm getting older...
My oldest son Jason, turned "40" this year.

With good things, brings some bad...
This summer, Dick had an accident on his bicycle.

Thank heavens for helmets!!!
No broken bones, but it did take a few months for
him to recover. He's back in the "saddle" so to speak!
He rode in the Ulcer 2011 (100 miles) bike ride in August.
Nothing keeps him down!
Thanks to his youngster friends who
encourage him to keep going.
Congratulations honey!

This year was a year of friend reunions...

My sister, Stephanie and I grew up with our BFF, Christine Nuttall Williams.
We hadn't gotten together for 40 years.
We met at Trolley Square in Salt Lake City, and had
lunch at the Desert Edge Restaurant.
We enjoyed reminiscing about old times and updating each other
on the new ones.

We enjoyed another friend reunion at the
Thatcher's house in Layton, Utah, for a bar-b-que.
Those in attendance:
Thatcher's, Payne's, Johnson's and Pearce's.
We missed seeing Royd Moss and Max and Chris Johnson.
Maybe next year!!

Glynn and Terri Smith invited us down to their condo on
Perdido Bay Beach again this year.
Irv and Sue Hale joined us.
Thanks for good friends and great times!

Each year I play golf with the Sheriff's group.

The last two years, I've been the only girl playing.

We play different golf courses throughout the County.

This year we played a "Point System" for each tournament,

5 pts. for 1st place, 3 pts for 2nd,

1 pt. for closest to the hole and

1 pt for longest drive, (Never got a point for this).

Guess who came in as the...

"2011 Top Cop Cup Champion"

with 27 pts. for the year

me...me...me!

Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy New Year!
From our family to yours!

~Sheriff's Shootout~

2011-07-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sheriff's Shootout

2011 Charity Golf Tournament

For the past three years...
I've been working for The Utah County Sheriff's Office,
in the division of Sex Crimes.
I've been involved with the Annual Sheriff's Shootout Golf Tournament,
a fund raiser to benefit the Children's Justice Center.

This year our team consisted of...
Irv Hale (bff), Dick, myself and Colton.
We didn't place, but had a great time golfing together.

Till next year....

~Celebrating 90 years~

2011-07-03T17:00:00.000-07:00

My mother will be turning 90 years old on...

September 8, 2011.

The weekend of the 4th of July, her family

came from far and near to celebrate her life.

She leaves a living legacy!

For me....

the key part of establishing a family legacy is what we do

with our children at an early age.

I can't write about my mother without including my....

dad, William Ward Heal.

He is a part of me, my brothers and sister.

My mother and dad instilled in us, at a very young age...

the importance of being together as a family,

taking family vacations, to visit far-away relatives,

so that we may know our Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and cousins.

My mother came to Utah and fell in love with the beautiful

mountains that surround us.

My dad bought a cabin in Vivian Park, up Provo Canyon.

We spent many weekends there, enjoying

fishing, hiking and even boating on the small pond.

We loved taking breakfast up to Canyon Glen and

cooking it on the grill.

My dad loved the game of golf!

He took time to teach all of his kids to golf, even mom.

We spent many family evenings at the ball park,

cheering on the 13th Ward softball team to victory.

(dad was the coach for several years)

My mother's life story is a vehicle to convey values,

beliefs, morals as well as the importance of being together as a family.

Thank you Mom, for sharing your life with us.

We will continue to follow in your footsteps.

Gordon and Mother seated with...

(l-r) Christie, Tom and Stephanie (Kim not shown)

Mother's grandchildren....

Mother's grandchildren and great-grandchildren

~To My Loving Husband~

2011-06-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day...

How many wives can say...

not just say...

mean every word...

"I thank my lucky stars to be sharing life with you!"

You are my hero,

my best friend,

always making me laugh and

saying the right words to make me cry.

You are my strength,

holding our family together,

and picking me up when I fall.

I love how you...
love our children unconditionally,
always...
taking time with each one of them
when they need you,
We have everything to be happy for....
a life together,
our love for each other,
our children to be proud of,
and now...
grandchildren to have fun with.
Looking forward to many more years of...
growing old together!

With all my love,

Christie

~A Special Mother~

2011-05-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Each year when "Mother's Day" comes around,
I feel so blessed to have my mother
still here to celebrate her day!

Time is not on our side...
My mother will turn "90' years old this September.
She is still reasonably healthy, wealthy in years and...
the wisest mother I know!

I want to always...
be there for her,
continue to show her my love and appreciation,
embrace her stories and memories she shares with me,
learn from her example.

I love you mom!
I will cherish these precious days we have together!
Your baby daughter,
Christie

~Cinderella 2011~

2011-04-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

The Royal Wedding of...
Prince William and Kate Middleton

April 29, 2011

It's like a fairy-tale come true.
The Prince and his Princess.

Like many,
I have been waiting to
watch the wedding of William and Kate (Catherine).
I recorded everything on TV,
making sure I don't miss anything.

Dick is on his annual Harley ride to Lauflin, Nevada.
So...
I will be glued to the TV this weekend,
enjoying every minute of the coverage.
"The Dress" is breath-taking.
I knew it was going to be different,
than what Diana wore, but
I couldn't have imagined how perfect!
Just like the
Fairy God-mother ordered!
Bibbity...Boppity...Boo!

Kate...Full of Grace in "The Dress"

She said "YES"

William and Kate's engagement picture.

Kate, wearing William's mother's ring...

After the Ceremony...

Their fairy-tale life, has just begun!

Her gown...very much like Grace Kelly's gown,

Beautiful, Elegant and with Style!

I think Kate is wondering what Princess Di is thinking?

As a mum, I know she would be very proud of her son,

and glad that he is so happy!

Before Prince Charles and Diana's wedding....

No couple had shown their affection in public on their wedding day.

They started the tradition and,

William and Kate will continue it.

I witnessed not one, but two, brief and sweet kisses,

that brought tears to my eyes.

On this very same day...

"65" years ago....

My mother and dad were married.

William Ward Heal took Muriel Roberta Jenkins,

to be his bride, for Eternity!

Married in the Salt Lake Temple,

sealed by... then, Elder David O McKay, later,

becoming President of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Pretty special, don't you think?

Ward and Muriel Heal

April 29, 1946

I know, my mom felt like a Princess that day!

And is waiting patiently...

to be with him again some day!

"And they lived

happily ever after"

~Happy Birthday to...My first & My last~

2011-04-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

Like most new mother's....

words can't express the way you feel....
at that point in time,

when....
you see your first born.

Nobody can ever take that precious moment away!

Jason Coy Moss was born...

April 27, 1971

He was the first child born to

Royd and Christie Moss,
the first grandchild born to
the Moss and Heal Family's.

Unlike today's births...
We had no idea what we were having.

We were hoping for our first born to be a boy.
Both sides of the family had boys first,
and we thought it would be nice to follow family tradition.

Grandmother Heal holding Jason (2 weeks old)

I remember examining every square centimeter of him,

stroking his hair and loving the new baby smell.

This was a whole new experience for me...

How can I be that....

loving mother, counselor, teacher and

friend that my child would never forget?

then I realized...

I was blessed with that perfect example of a mother,

who always showed me unconditional love and support.

She was always there for me, at that time when...
I needed her the most.

It's been 40 years since that special time in my life.

It seems like only yesterday.

I'll always remember and treasure that day.

Happy Birthday Jason,
Love, Mom

then...

19 years and 1 day later...

Feeling like it was a first again,

I was blessed with my last child.

Richard Colton Pearce was born...

April 28, 1992

Son of Richard and Christie Pearce

Colton (2 weeks old)

He joined the family of "Ours"...

making it a family of...

"Your's, Mine and Ours".

Completing the family as the seventh child.

Again...

I remembered examining every square centimeter of him,

stroking his hair and loving the new baby smell.

But, there was a difference...

I knew at that point...

I could be that loving mother,

counselor, teacher and friend

that my child would never forget.
and...
I'll always cherish that last time...
of giving birth!

It's been 19 wonderful years...

Colton has been the light of my life.

Happy Birthday Colton,
Love, Mom

I've been blessed to be a mother,
I can honestly say...

I wouldn't trade those special moments.

Not for anything!

~Twin Teens~

2011-04-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Happy "13th" Birthday...

Carson and McKenzie

I remember my daughter calling me up,

and telling me she was pregnant.

I was thrilled!

Then she told me, she was having "TWINS"

I was DOUBLY thrilled!

Carson and McKenzie were the first set of twins

born on the Heal side since...

I was born, in "1950"

Here are some of my favorite pics of the twins...

Big brother Dylan holding the newborn twins

Carson and McKenzie 1 month old...

at 6 months old...

at 1 year....

at 2 years...

May all your wishes come true!!

~Loving Life~

2011-04-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

The month of April has been

very busy.

It brings....

many celebrations of birthdays...

Heidi (Jason's wife), Haley, Carson, McKenzie,
Jason and Colton.

and...

A full week's vacation in the SUN!

We were invited again this year to spend a week with

our friends, the Smith's, at their condo,

in Perdido Bay, Florida.

Our friends the Hale's also joined us...

making it a group of six.

We enjoyed...

morning walks on the beach,

breath-taking views of the ocean,

watching the dolphins dance for us,

all the fresh seafood you could eat,

golfing,

shopping,

and....

more importantly,

enjoying the company of such good friends.

Our group picture...at the local Shrimp Basket...

Irv and Sue Hale, enjoying good food, good friends...

The Hosts...Terri and Glynn Smith (You're the Best!)

Dick and Christie, at The Oyster Bar...

Terri and Sue taking a rest while shopping at The Warf...

I feel like...

I've been on this Ferris Wheel all month,

and I don't want to get off!

Thanks Glynn and Terri for a great vacation.

We needed the sunshine more than you will ever know.

I'm Loving Life!!!

~It's Haley's Birthday~

2011-04-08T06:33:00.000-07:00

"Happy 34th"

Did I ever tell you....
From the minute I saw you,
I loved everything about you?
I loved....
the sound of your cry,
the dark curls on your pretty little head,
feeling you in my arms,
kissing you, and
knowing...how blessed I was to have you.

Today....
You are celebrating your 34th birthday.

I love...
that you are happy at this point in your life,
that you have found your soul mate,
that you are a special mommy to your beautiful children,
that you are that woman....
that I'm proud to say is my grownup daughter.

Hope you have a happy day today!
Love,
Mom

~ Twins 61st Birthday~

2011-03-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy 61st Birthday to my sister (Baby A).

On March 28, 1950, at Utah Valley Hospital, Provo Utah,

identical twin girls were born to...

William Ward and Muriel Jenkins Heal.

Stephanie born at 8:58 am weighing 5lbs. 11 ozs.

Christie born at 9:26 am, weighing 5lbs. 5 ozs.

These are some accounts of my mother's...

"Twin Story"

The big day came. Pains started around 2 am

on Tuesday, March 28, 1950.

We dropped Tommy (25 Months) off

at his Grandmother Heal's on Third West.

My contractions were coming every 2-3 minutes,

I was getting worried. We went directly to Utah Valley Hospital.

I was just about ready for the delivery room,

so after "prep" I was wheeled in.

The law specified two nurses and two doctors

as attendants for the birth of twins.

Dr. Hammond worked in an office with his uncle, Dr. Merrill, who assisted.

The first baby girl was born close to 9:00 am and the second one

was coming breach (feet first) which was a precarious situation,

but with care, the doctors soon announced the arrival of another girl.

Dr. Hammond announced that they were identical twin girls.

Stephanie was called baby A, Christie became baby B.

It was quite an exciting time announcing the birth of identical twins

to all our friends and relatives. We had to reassure everyone that

our doctor had known all along, and we wanted to keep

the joyful news to ourselves.

The daddy was very proud, and brought me a pot of

lovely lavender tulips to brighten the hospital room."

Stephanie and I would like to dedicate...

Our birthday, to our sweet mother who

gave us life. We love you mom!

And here is to many more birthdays together...

As we have grown, we've been there for each other...

Celebrating our birthdays together...

Sharing our wedding days...

Anticipating the precious births of our children...

Enjoying our special Grandchildren.

We have truly been blessed!

Life isn't always a bed of roses between us...

but in the end we know, we'll always be there for each other.

Thanks Tee Tee...for 61 years of having my best friend there...

when I need you!

Happy Birthday...may all your wishes come true!

Love always,

TeeTee

~Happy "56th" Birthday Dickie~

2011-03-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

I can't help but think....

how much I want to grow old with you!

It's just around the corner...let's live it up....
while we can!!!!
Have a great Birthday Honey!

Hope you wish for....many more birthdays with me!

With all my Love,

Christie

~Grandchildren are Wonderful~

2011-03-16T07:57:00.000-07:00

I love being a GRANDMA!!!

The day of Cody and Colton's Farewell Party,

Heather Telford ( you are amazing!)

came over to capture,

some memories of our happy family!

Unfortunately...

We had to wake Krew up from his sleep, to be in this picture.

He usually is the happiest little guy.

I still love this picture!

We're missing my sweet Samantha, Tanzynn and Ty...

maybe next time!

I love reading to my grandchildren...

Here, I am reading The Bumper Book...

(my favorite book when I was a child)

Quinton and Corbin like it as much as I did!

McKenzie (12 yrs) my oldest Granddaughter..

Isn't she beautiful?

My sweet boy Krew...

I am so blessed to have my grandchildren!

YOU....
are the reason I was born!

Love always,

Grandma TeeTee

~An Empty Nest~

2011-03-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

Colton is moving out...

he is going to live with his big brother.

Cody finished his 14 month training for the border patrol.

He will be living in Bellingham, Washington.

Colton decided that he wanted to go live with Cody.

(Get a taste of life on his own, and

decide as to what the future will bring for him)

I'm excited for Cody and Colton to have this time to bond

with each other, away from mom and dad.

Today....

Colton, Cody, Dick and Julie (Dick's Ex) left this morning for Bellingham Washington.

It might be an interesting trip, since Dick and Julie haven't been

on a trip together for 22 plus years.

Not to mention...Scout, her dog went too!

All in the same vehicle!

I will be home alone for the next 5 days....

thinking, meditating and wondering what's next in life for me,

and...

trying to get used to a quiet house.

I was a little somber when cleaning out Colton's room,

wondering if it will be a permanent thing or...

will he be back in 3 months?

Time will tell...

This is a letter to my son...

Dear Colton,

The day your dad and I found out that we were going to have a baby,

was a very exciting and happy day!

Heavenly Father had a plan for you...

You were to unite our family together as one,

bringing all of us so much joy and love.

Those days weren't the easiest, to begin with....

the unexpected health problems I had when you were born,

I was so thankful that I had your sisters and brothers to help care for you and love you.

I truly believe that you helped prepare your sisters to be the special mother's they are today!

Thus, you becoming a great uncle for your nieces and nephews.

I don't know many teenage boys that change diapers and

enjoy playing with baby's like you do.

There is no doubt in my mind....

you will be a great dad some day!

Now for some motherly advise...

Stay close to your Heavenly Father,

and listen to that still small voice.

Learn from your dad to be that loving, kind and gentle man,

with patience and understanding for others feelings,

Live with honesty and integrity in all things,

Have compassion for all mankind,

Don't be afraid to challenge yourself and your talents,

Be respectful of others, especially your elders,

Keep a journal, and write down important dates and experiences,

Be happy, because if you're happy, I'll be happy too.

most importantly....

don't forget to call your mom every once in a while,

and tell her you love her!

Colton,

never feel you're alone.

No matter how near or far apart,

I will always be there in your heart.

Missing you already,

Love, Mom

Will you be my Valentine????

2011-02-14T06:54:00.000-08:00

It was love at it's beginning, and...

I guess what we have now is love in the middle...

which makes me get excited for what love will be in the end!

I truly wonder what we were thinking we had,

when we married.

I guess it was, Love, Love, Love....

because we were, Poor, Poor, Poor.

They say opposites attract...

NOT US,

WE ARE TWO OF A KIND!

I fell in love with him, knowing...

he had a testimony of the gospel,

We both believe in Eternal happiness,

We love our Heavenly Father and...

know we are blessed by Him,

Our family means everything to us,

We love being grandparents,

We both lost our dad's and miss them terribly,

We are intuitive to each others feelings,

We live in the present, the here and now,

We are definitely greater together than apart,

A day doesn't go by without telling each other...

"I Love You"

We laugh at each other but...

love laughing together.

We are each other's best friend,

We sense each others thoughts but know when...

one is needing the other.

We are die-hard romantics,

We both are friendly and flirtatious,

Our love language is... physical touch to the max...

we love kissing each other...

(even when our kids tell us to get a room)

We love dancing together,

We both play golf, he lives to play...

I love that he is good at it,

We have always tried to stay healthy,

We love taking walks together...

always holding hands,

He is without a doubt the sweetest, kindest, and...

most patient man I know,

Our love for each other is unconditional,

Happily in love couples are one thing, but...

long lasting love is beautiful!

This is my valentine to my husband,

You don't marry someone you can live with,

you marry the person you cannot live without!

What brought us together?

All of the above!

With all My Love,

Christie

There's a silence...

2011-02-01T06:32:00.000-08:00

My Baby Boy....

I find something in my heart and my mind that I've feared

up to this point in my life....

~silence~

I guess every mother experiences these fears...
when her children start to leave the house
and begin their own lives.

I have been blessed with seven wonderful children.

They have been the light of my life.

Now, I have the joy of watching my children become

mothers and fathers and raising their own children.

Last August was the first time in 35 years,

I didn't have children to enroll in school.

Most people would jump for joy...

I have mixed feelings.

Colton is now working as a security guard for
Centurian Security.
He works nights, leaving for work...

when we are coming home from work.
There are days I don't get to see him.

Colton told us he has decided to move up to Washington
with his brother Cody at the beginning of March.

My first reaction....PANIC!!!
But, I knew this day was coming.
He will be moving on to newer and better things.
Colton, has a lot to think about...
where he wants to be in life,
how he is going to get there,
and what sacrifices he will have to make to achieve his goals.
I am proud of him and his accomplishments up to this point.
I trust he will work hard to be successful in life,
and make us proud.

This is a new chapter in our lives.

I will be looking forward to...
Spending more one-on-one time with my hubby,

Cleaning the house...and it staying clean,

Having more ME-time,

Spending more time with my grandchildren,

No more mountains of laundry!

I guess reality is knocking on my door

It's that time in my life...

~SILENCE~

~01/01/11~

2011-01-01T13:59:00.000-08:00

~Happy New Year 2011~

December 2010 closes the door on another year...
It has been a very busy and prosperous one at that.

We might remember it as the year...

Our son Cody was accepted by the Federal Government,
into the Border Patrol. He has had a very busy and
successful year of training on the Texas/Mexico border.
He will be heading north in March to his permanent destination
of Bellingham Washington on the Washington/Canada border.

My sister Stephanie and I turned sixty years old,
They say "60" is the new "40"...
we're looking forward to a new chapter in life!

In May, Dick and I took a week vacation to Florida.
We were guests of Glen and Terri Smith's at their beach condo,
in Perdido Bay, Florida.
It was a well deserved break for both of us.

Colton graduated from Maple Mountain High School

also graduating from Seminary

as a four year graduate.

Colton earned his Eagle Scout Award to top his year off.

On May 17, 2010 my mother-in-law Marilyn Pearce

was married to her sweetheart Max Bangerter.

We have enjoyed getting to know him and his family

and are very happy for both of them.

This summer with the help of many of our family and friends

we landscaped our yard....putting in a sprinkling system, 3,000 sq feet of sod,

a border of rocks separating the grass from the planting areas,

and to finish it off we added a big deck on the back of the house.

In the fall I planted 100 tulip bulbs, (my favorite flower)

I'm excited to see them pop out of the ground

at the first sign of spring.

We of course had many, many birthdays in our family...

one birthday that was especially fun to celebrate

was my oldest grandson, Dylan's birthday.

He turned sweet '16' on July 30th.

It was a reminder to me how fast my grandchildren
are growing up and how much I want to enjoy
every moment with them.

There is no greater joy...

than to welcome a new baby into our family.

Mac William Christensen was born on 10-10-10...

son of my daughter, Haley and Cole Christensen.

He has been such a blessing in our lives.

In November, my mother and Gordon,

made a new home at Courtyard at Jamestown Square, in Provo.

They have enjoyed their new home and are busy

everyday with activities they attend and making new friends.

Our family feels much thanksgiving for the blessings we received this year...

and wish you and yours a Happy New Year to come.

~You Better Watch Out....~

2010-12-07T06:45:00.000-08:00

~Tis the Holiday Season~

Time for...
Stringing the lights,

Decorating the house,

Trimming the tree,

Sending your letters to Santa,

The hustle and bustle of Christmas shoppers,

The smell of cinnamon and cloves simmering on the stove,
Baking your Christmas cookies,

Wrapping packages,

Family get-togethers and...

remembering the true meaning of Christmas!

Hope you all have a safe and happy Holiday Season!

~Our 21st Anniversary~

2010-11-17T19:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary Honey!

November 17, 1989 was the best day of my life.

It seems like only yesterday...that I married my best friend.

My life is warmer, brighter, better,

and a thousand times more fun because of you!

Hope we have 21 more to come.

I want to grow old with you!!!

~A New Home for Mom~

2010-11-05T08:40:00.000-07:00

For the past two months my mother has been staying at
Aspen Ridge Physical Rehab Facility.

She has been healing from a fall that fractured her pelvis.
She is now walking with a walker and doing great!

While in the physical rehab center, there was alot of
discussion about what would happen once mother was released.
It had come to the inevitable...
Mother and Gordon could not go back home
and continue to care for each other.
They decided that it was time to move into an assisted-living center.

We all wanted a quality life style for both of them.

We wanted the Best for the BEST!

Mother and Gordon moved into

Courtyard at Jamestown Square in Provo, November 2, 2010.

With the help of our family members,

we were able to move a small part of their home into their new apartment.

We wanted to make it feel as close to home as we could.

So the designer's...(Stephanie and Christie) went to work by hanging draperies,

adding some of their favorite wall hangings,

brought over Gordon's favorite chair and a few personal touches.

Mother entered the room and started crying...she was so glad to be HOME!

Welcome home Mother and Gordon,

enjoy your new home and new friends at...

Courtyard at Jamestown Square

~Chuga-Chuga-Choo-Choo~

2010-11-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

Had a fun outing with my five grandson's yesterday...

Provo Town Square has a little Train running through the mall for those interested in riding on it.

Holly brought Corbin, Quinton and Deagan,

Haley brought Krew and Mac to ride on the train.

They had fun putting the money in the machine for the tickets and then

they all chose which car they would ride in.

The conductor made sure they were "ALL ABOARD"....and off they went.

To top off the night....a ride up the elevator and a bite to eat at the food court.

Holly showing Corbin how to buy the train tickets....

Pretty cute Conductor....

Krew and Haley riding in the caboose.....

Holly, Corbin, Quinton and Deagan riding the blue car...

~Our New Addition~

2010-10-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Day...

On October 10, 2010 (10.10.10) we were blessed with our thirteenth grandchild.

Mac William Christensen, son of Cole and Haley Christensen,

born 10-10-2010 at 12:35 am,

weighing 8 lbs 2 ozs, and 20 inches long.

Baby and Mother doing great!

One happy big brother (Krew) holding his baby brother Mac...

Shhhh....baby sleeping

~A New Park~

2010-10-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Our city of Spanish Fork has a new family park.

The last week in September the temps were still
in the high 80's.

Jeff and Holly decided to spend their

Family Home Evening night at our new park.

The boys had a great time at the splash pad.

Deagan had fun playing on the grass with the adults...

Mom and Deagan watched as the kids were having fun in the water....

Q and Corbin trying to get warm on the cement....

Good times were had by all....summer is over....

fall is here....

Next, these two guys will be jumping into big piles of fall leaves!

Stay posted....

~A Weekend Away~

2010-09-28T06:00:00.001-07:00

Since my hubby had just returned from his...
Man-Cation to Alabama for 9 days....

I decided it was time for a get-a-way.

For some time now, I've been wanting to go to the
Homestead in Midway for a night's stay in one of their
cottages.

I had won a Golf pass for four to
the Homestead Golf Course.
We invited our friends the Fry's to join us.

September and October are the prettiest month's of
the year...up in the canyons.
The mountains were full of color.
We had a great weekend and enjoyed every minute.

~It's Official~

2010-09-23T15:34:00.000-07:00

Fall has finally arrived, according to...
the Calendar,

the cooler temperatures
and our beautiful colorful canyons.

Welcome Fall...you're one of my favorite seasons of all!
And these are some reasons why:

The leaves changing color in the canyons;
My favorite candy corn mix;
Spice scented candles lit in the evenings;
Crisp juicy apples;
Sitting by a fire on a cold fall evening;
Making my favorite chewy caramel popcorn;
Gathering fall leaves and branches to add
to the nature in my home;
My hubby making his famous chili;
Decorating my porch with cornstalks and pumpkins.

Hope you enjoy this wonderful time of the year
as much as I do!

~The Twins and our Sweet Mother~

2010-09-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

So...I just got our pictures back from Heather,

(Heather Telford Photography).

Thanks Heather for all your patience....you're the best!

I'm so glad we scheduled the photo shoot when we did!

Mother fell the next week and fractured her pelvis...

We were lucky it wasn't her hip!!

She will be in the Aspen Ridge Rehab Center for a while...

She will get the physical therapy that she needs to heal.

I love the pictures we had of the two of us with her...

Who knows when we will be able to do this again?

Christie, Mom and Stephanie....

Stephanie and Christie incognito....

~The Bangerter Wedding~

2010-09-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

It's been several month's since the wedding, but I just got

the pictures and needed to post this special day...

On May 17, 2010, Dick's mom was married to Max Bangerter.

The marriage was held in Sandy, Utah.

Mom (Marilyn Pearce) and Max knew each other from

growing up in the same city of Granger, Utah.

Dick's sister Malinda has been best friends with

Jody Bangerter...Max's daughter-in-law.

Jody is married to

Richard Bangerter, (Max's oldest son)

Malinda and Jody would talk about getting

Dad and Mother to go out together.

Last Christmas Richard and Jody had purchased four tickets

to a Chrismas play.

Richard asked Max if he would like to go and

bring someone with him.

He said, "yes, I think I'll ask Marilyn Pearce to go with me."

And the rest is history....

They were engaged 3 months later.

The flower arrangements were beautiful...

The greeting table at the entrance....

The wedding cake was floral-cious

Richard Bangerter (Max's son) going over the Marriage Certificate....

The Bride in the Brides Room....

The Bride with her son and daughter....

The Bride and her daughter Malinda and granddaughter Whitney....

Max...waiting for his Bride....

Some of our special guests....

The Bride being escorted by her son Richard Pearce....

The Bride a little overwhelmed seeing so many family and friends....

Richard Bangerter beginning the Wedding Ceremony....

The Ceremony in process....

A sweet look of "I love you"....

"And now I pronounce you....Husband and Wife"....

Richard Pearce congratulating his Step-Father....

The Bride and Groom cutting their wedding cake....

The food was fantastic....

Dick's approval of the food....

Malinda and Steve Hansen....

Dick and Christie Pearce....

The combined family members....

Marilyn Bangerter with her children....

Max Bangerter with his children....

Happily Ever-after....

The whole family....

The whole family giving their approval....

~Twins Forever~

2010-09-14T20:22:00.000-07:00

When Stephanie and I were little girls, mom would always

dress us in the same outfits (twin outfits).

This year we celebrated our "60" year birthday.

We thought it would be fun to dress alike again and

have our picture taken.

Now....if you were to look in our closets,

you would find that we have many of the same clothes.

When Stephanie sees me wearing something she likes...

she goes out and buys her one.

And when I see Stephanie wearing something I like....

well....you get the picture, right?

It just happened, when deciding what to wear,

we looked in our closets and found the white top,

the gray skinny jeans and the red shoes.

The only things we bought together were the accessories.

This photo was taken in front of Haley's house on her teal porch stairs...

It was a great day!

I hope to enjoy many more years with my twin sister

Love you TeeTee

~Colton's an Eagle Scout~

2010-09-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, the 13th of September...

Colton officially received his Eagle Scout Award.

The foremost responsibility of an Eagle Scout is to live with

HONOR and LOYALTY;
to be COURAGEOUS and CHEERFUL;

and to give SERVICE to your fellowmen.
Colton, you deserve much credit for having achieved Scouting's highest award. Always remember that you are looked up to as an example.

Let this always be a guide for you in the future.
Colton's project was to be of assistance for the Spanish Fork City by cleaning up the Canyon View RV Park.

At the park there were picnic tables and grassy areas with shade trees around. There was a lot of overgrowth beneath these areas.

The City needed the park cleaned up to have it be

more presentable and usable to the public.

The city also felt the park was a fire hazard,

so cleaning up helped in making it a safe area.
Colton coordinated several volunteers to help clean out the debris

and haul it away.
The benefits:
This project saved significant time and money for the City of Spanish Fork,

by using volunteers as opposed to paying city workers;
This projects also benefits the local community and all visitors to the park by beautifying the park and making it more usable for the community citizens. Also it eliminated the possibility of a fire hazard.
Colton had 16 volunteers help him with this project.

The number of hours spent, planning,

carrying out the project and including all hours spent by

each volunteer was a grand total of 85 hours worked on the project.
Colton, your dad and I are proud of your accomplishment and

know that Scouting will be a guide in your life.

You will be better prepared to guide the future.
We love you and are proud of you!

We look forward to seeing you continue to grow spiritually and

physically with the knowledge you have gained in

earning this prestigious award.

Colton at the beginning of the project....

One of the areas to clean up...

Colton and his volunteers at work....
Two of eight loads to the dump....
The hard-working crew....

Looking good....

The finished project....

The Eagle Scout Leader....

~Make a wish "Nichole"~

2010-09-09T06:52:00.000-07:00

When I was a child I would constantly make wishes. Whether it was upon a star, or throwing shiny pennies into fountains, I was enchanted by the idea of making dreams come to life. I thought that if I closed my eyes really tight and believed, I just may find the gold at the end of the rainbow or my first love would be mine if my last daisy petal said so. Today, I still make a wish every time I blow out birthday candles or see a shooting star.

There is something so magical and pure about a wish,

and I like to think that they really do come true.

Today, I would like to wish my daughter,

Nichole a Happy Birthday....

may all your wishes come true!

~Happy" 89th" Birthday Mom~

2010-09-08T21:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it?

My mom is 89 years of age and Beautiful as ever!!

She is still in pretty good health...she goes

walking 6 days out of the week...

she has started walking with a

cane to help balance her steps.

She is hard at work each day completing family journals.

She gets frustrated at times, when trying to

remember places and dates.

Mom, I'm doing that now...at age 60

Stephanie and I decided to have pictures taken

this year with mother...Heather Telford Photography

met us at Riverwoods Park in Provo.

Thanks mom, for always being there and being the

"Best" Mother anyone could have...

We love you!!!

~The Grass Grows Greener at the Pearce's~

2010-08-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

Building a new home, always means a lot of work after it's built....

It's been one year and we have accomplished a lot!

We have put the sprinkling system in;

added a new deck to the back of the house and laid 7,000 sq feet of sod. (PHEW!!)

We are enjoying the fruits of YOUR labor, and appreciate all the

hard work and slaving in the hot sun.

We still plan to plant some trees and add a few more rocks in the

bedding areas. Dick wants to add rocks on the side of the house for extra parking.

Next year...we'll be adding the trex on the deck, enclose our yard with

fencing and add more plants, flowers and trees....

I have posted pictures of the process....putting the finished product at the first....

The grass really starts to finish things...and more than anything,

my house won't have as much dirt and dust in it!

Finished product....

After the job was done...Dick cooked hot dogs for everyone...

Dick...keeping the sod wet after laying it....

Cole Christensen....always there to help

The forecast was rain and thunder storms....but it held out

till after the job was done....

Friday August 27th the 7,000 sq. ft. of sod arrived.

Dick had nightmares about this day.

He was greeted that morning with friends and family there

to help....Dick, Colton, Cole, our neighbor Tim, Irv Hale, Brandon Fry,

Rafael and Edward...they finished in less than 4 hours!

My sister Stephanie has an eye for design....I asked her

what she thought would look good for our front yard.

This is the beginning of our plan coming to life....

Our neighbors father-in-law heard that we needed rocks

for the front yard... and one day

12 tons of rocks showed up.

Thanks Merlin....you really went above and beyond helping

out your daughter's neighbor.

Brandon with his "magic machine".....
Jason surprised us and came down with Brandon to help out....

Cole in the background, Jeffrey, Colton and Dick....

Thank you... Ed and Cole for helping build the deck

we really enjoy sitting and relaxing after a hard days work!

We can't thank all of you enough for your hard work and the time you spent away

from your families.

I know that many of you went home with sore backs, aching muscles and blisters.

We couldn't have done it without you.

We are blessed to have special family and friends!!!

~A Sunday with Family~

2010-08-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

For the past few weeks, children and grandchildren have been taking turns

bringing dinner to Mom and Gordon.

Sunday, the Youngs came down to

take Grandmother and Grandpa out to dinner.

After dinner they came over to Jeff and Holly's home to visit with all of us.

I just happened to have my camera and I put it to use....

GG with Krew

The Young's with GG and Grandpa

Cole is always sweet to let me take his picture....
"Q" showing everyone that he can read....

Colton reading to Quinton

Deagan... showing everyone how he scoots across the room

Corbin...just before the alligator tears came...

can't remember why he started to cry?

~A Reunion with Old Friends~

2010-08-13T08:12:00.000-07:00

Have you ever ran into an old friend and talked about getting the ol' group together?

Stephanie and Ed ran into Bill and Robin Payne while at Strawberry Resevoir one weekend. They set up a time and place when the ol' group could meet and talk about old times and catch up on new times.

Stephanie and Ed hosted the reunion at their house in Hobblecreek on

Friday the 13th of August.

Max and Chris Johnson, Ed Johnson and Christie Pearce

Those in attendance:

Bob & Darlene Thatcher

Bill & Robin Payne

Max & Chris Johnson

Dick & Christie Pearce

Ed & Stephanie Johnson

From l-r, Max Johnson, Christie Pearce, Bill Payne, Stephanie Johnson,

Darlene Thatcher, Bob Thatcher and Robin Payne

(The Ol' Group)....

Royd Moss wasn't able to make it.

We took lots of picture's and plan to get together again soon...so he can join us next time.

Cafe Rio catered the dinner and we all brought our favorite dessert.

Needless to say it was yum-yum-yummy.

We all took turns sharing times we remembered,

(names and places didn't come to us easily since we are all past "60")

Darlene was the life of the party, with her dry wit and sense of humor.

She shared a story of her and Bob, the night she dropped Bob off on

I-15. (what's said in Hobblecreek, stays in Hobblecreek).

Darlene....you crack me up!!!!
Darlene and Bob Thatcher

I think we all would have been rolling on the deck...if, we

could have gotten out of our chairs...we were all so full from dinner!

Bill and Robin Payne

Robin Payne, Stephanie and Ed Johnson

Thanks everyone...it was a great time with great friends!

Can't wait for the next reunion.

Dylan's "16th" Birthday

2010-08-03T09:27:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DYLAN....

It seems impossible that I have a grandchild old enough to drive. Dylan turned 16 years old on July 30th. It is so fun to see the different stages of life he has gone through. Dylan got his first vehicle to drive on June 23, 2010. It is a Ford F150 truck.

Dylan started his special day with a game of golf with his Uncle Jason. Dylan has been looking forward to going out and playing with him. Uncle Jason started golfing when he was 10 years old.... and Dylan would like some day to beat his Uncle Jason at golf.

Keep on practicing Dylan!

His parents planned an outdoor birthday party for him, with his Uncle's Jeff and Colton DJ'ing.
Smile Jeff....you're on candid camera....

The evening started with a family get-together...serving cake and ice cream.

We were entertained by Dylan's Grandpa and Grandma Young doing the jitterbug....

Colton and Holly leading us in a line dance....

Dylan opened his presents (a couple to mention) a rifle, a bug screen and window shields for his truck.

Then 40-60 of Dylans friends all came over to hang out and dance.

Needless to say the "Youngs house" was the place to be that night.

Dylan will be a Junior this year at Roy High School. He has enjoyed playing soccer, snowboarding and decided last year to add golf to his sports activities...another golfer in the family!

Hope you had a great birthday Dylan and many more to come!!!

~Happy Independence Day~

2010-07-04T05:44:00.000-07:00

I can't think of a better place to be.... for the 4th of July, than my hometown of Provo, Utah.

When the 4th of July comes around it brings back so many memories when I was a kid...

I can remember the 13th ward neighborhood parades.

I loved decorating my bicycle...weaving red, white and blue crepe paper

in and out of the spokes of the wheels. I would attach playing cards with clothes pins

on my bike. My bike would sound like it had a motor when the cards would hit the spokes.

On the day of the 4th of July we would go to the big Provo 4th of July Parade. We all gathered at my dad's office building on University Avenue and 5oo North to watch the parade. We would go up to the second story of the building to get a better view. I loved seeing the beautiful floats and try to guess which one was going to win first place. There would be men walking around selling balloons, cotton candy, Popsicles and popcorn.

After the parade we would head for the carnival to have fun on the rides.

My favorite ride was the ferris wheel. I loved seeing out over the trees and

then looking down and seeing how small everything was.

When I was older me moved a few blocks from the BYU field, where the fireworks were set up for the night festivities.
We would lie on blankets and watch the fireworks from our front yard at 280 East 2100 North.

We would oooh and ahhh as we watched the fireworks and then hear the boom boom noise as they went off...it was just the right ending for a fun-filled day.

My brother Tom purchased a hot-air balloon the year of 1990.

On the holiday weekend of the 4th of July. Provo City would host

a Hot-Air Balloon Race for pilots and their balloons all over the country.

It was fun to participate in being part of Tom's chase crew.

Family members would help with getting the balloon ready to inflate it and

then once he lifted off, the chase crew would follow in cars to his destination and

help with the landing and putting the hot-air balloon away.

Tom sold his hot-air balloon in 2001, but we still attend the race

which has been one of our family traditions each year.

This weekend...when the flag marches by, I will proudly salute,

with my hand over my chest and be thankful

for this special day of Independence and the freedom I enjoy.

~Happy Father's Day~

2010-06-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Love of my Life

When we met, I was focusing on my children and realizing

I wasn't going to find that special one to love my kids the way I love them.

And then, what initially began a glimpse of a meeting......

turned into an "I Do".

We both learned quickly that marriage can be something beautiful.

With the trials of our previous marriages, we did

everything we could to make sure this entity

of ours would be a complete success.

With the challenges of uniting children together as one family,

quickly became a blessing. And then....

the news of having another child was the biggest blessing of all.

He completed our family!

And now...

as we've enjoyed the walk through couple hood,

parenthood and grand parenthood,

there isn't a single person I would rather have with

me on this journey than you.

You, with that sweet disposition, uncanny way

of making me feel like a queen.

Who, only requires four hours of sleep and continues to have

the energy to do it all.

Who, has the patience of Jobe and has always given

quality time to our children when they've needed that one on one.

You, who willingly cleans the house from floor to ceiling,

including bathrooms and windows, just so his wife can

come home to relax and enjoy the weekend with him.

You greet me at the door as I pull into the garage on

days you know I have worked too hard and too long.

You, who plans nights at The Little America to

surprise me and make me feel special.

You, who has always worked two or more jobs,

to make sure our family's needs have been met.

We've learned as parents, that there is no greater responsibility

we will ever have than being good leaders to our

children and grandchildren.

You are an amazing husband, father and grandfather.

I vow to always see you for who you are, and

I promise to love you and care for you

for the rest of my life.

There are so many moments with you I hope to never forget.

Giving you my heart was the best decision I have ever made.

Happy Father's Day, Sweetheart

With all my love,

Christie

~La Riva Resort at Perdido Key~

2010-06-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on the beaches of Perdio Key.

It was my first time in Florida and I enjoyed every minute I was there.

We lucked out....
the oil hadn't washed up on the beaches where we were.

I feel so bad for those poor fishermen and their families
who will be affected by the oil spill disaster.
We were guests at Glen and Terri Smith's condo on Perdido Keys.
The condo was a four thousand square foot condo with floor to ceiling windows
looking out to beautiful sugar-white sandy beaches.

This is the view we had off our balcony....

Our typical day....

Dick awoke at his normal time of five or six o'clock,

being a sweetheart not to awaken me.
He loves taking early morning walks on the beach.
I of course, slept in and woke at my own time.
Got up and opened the drapes and got back

into bed and soaked in the view of the ocean.
It was breath-taking....
We then had a bite to eat for breakfast
and headed out to sit by the pool or on the beach.
Usually by afternoon we would see a storm come in which
would last an hour or two, then it would clear up and
be beautiful again, leaving georgous rainbows in the sky.
We would see people fishing off the beach, parasailing and boating.

Terri's son-in law, Chason is
Chelsey Hightower's (dancer from Dancing With the Star's) brother.
She was coming to Pensicola for a benefit show.
Teri and I went and enjoyed a great evening of talented dancers.

Dick and I were introduced to some of the more
popular Flori-bama restaurants and
enjoyed the best of Southern food.
We went to some of Glen and Terri's favorites...
Moe's Bar-b-Que, The Shrimp Basket and The Oyster Bar.
Needless to say, Dick and I are back on our diet.

The day the boys went golfing,
Terri and I went to the Tangeray Outlet Mall in Gulf Shore, Alabama.

I don't think I've ever been to one that big.

We were there for about 6 hours and didn't get to see half the stores.

I think I finally found a shopping buddy that can keep up with me.

Thanks, Terri it was so fun.

Time to go home....

We flew out of Pensicola, to Atlanta and then on to Denver.

We were waiting for our connecting flight to Utah when

they announced our flight had been canceled, due to a

cracked window on the plane we were about to board.

There were no other flights out that night.

Delta Airlines put us up in a Hotel near the airport and

we flew home the next morning.
It was a great vacation!

Now back to the grind,

but I feel blessed to have a job to come home to....

I can't help thinking of those people who are out of work or will be....

due to the oil disaster.

I feel very blessed to have what we have and

my prayers and thoughts are with those that are going through hard times.

100- things that make me happy

2010-06-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

being a Mom
my membership in the true church
the morning sunshine
shiney cleaned windows
bread pudding from the Bistro at Nordstrom's
white sheets freshly laundered and ironed
an afternoon ride with my husband on his Harley Davidson
down comforters
blessings I've been given
tulips
the smell of fresh cut grass
decorating my home
the first sound of birds chirping
double-stuffed Keebler cookies
organizing a cluttered drawer
lip gloss
sitting by a warm fire on a cold night
hostess crumb donuts
spring flowers
new car smell
a good yard sale
finding a bargain
the sound of the river
canyon drives
white dishes
an inspiring story
hgtv
blogging
provo bakery's maple bars
TJMaxx&More
the smell of a campfire
old family photos
DSW
a romantic movie
a spontaeneous night out with my husband
Martha Stewarts- it's a good thing
a spa pedicure
being surprised
all of Nicholas Sparks novels
a clean house
decorating for Christmas
bunnies
the song: "Smile" Uncle Kracker
a beautiful table setting
my husband wispering "I Love You"
a summer's cool breeze
my grandchildren laughing
being a Grandma
walking on the beach with my husband
discoving a new boutique
finding someone in need and giving of myself
a beautiful sunset
a good game of golf
a winter white Christmas
good friends
money in my savings account
dancing with my husband
a sleepover at Little America
weighing the same as I did when I met my husband (20 years ago)
first signs of spring
a new pair of shoes
a good hair day
when someone tells me I look younger than I am
when my children are happy
a good nights sleep
seeing my mother happy and healthy
birthday party's
a spa massage
a hot fudge sundae
a tax refund
Mother's Day
sharing my birthday with my sister
a three mile walk
the birth of a new grandchild
sweet juicy watermelon
living by mountains
kissing my husband
cooking breakfast in the canyon
reading books to my grandchildren
living in Utah
a drive in the canyon to look at the fall leaves
a bear hug from my grandchildren
old family movies
the color green
a spur of the moment shopping spree
a beautiful garden scape
a good days work
family reunions
knowing my Heavenly Father hears my prayers
the blessing of having children
fresh fruit
seeing blossoms on trees
visiting Arizona in March
the smile on Krew's face when he sees me
a rainbow
Mondays
avocado on toast
eating a fresh tomato off the vine
a picnic in the park
knowing I have 100 things I'm happy for

Congratulations...Graduate "2010"

2010-05-23T10:47:00.000-07:00

I remember when Dick and I were looking at our baby boy, thinking....

how 18 years would fly and before you know it.....

Colton will be graduating from High School.

Well.....

The time has come!

May 25, 2010 Colton graduated

from Maple Mountain High School Class of 2010.

Congratulations Colton, we're so proud of you!

~Vacation at the Beach~

2010-05-21T06:51:00.000-07:00

Eleven days till my hubby and I will be heading down to the Florida beaches...

for a belated "20" year Anniversary getaway...

A good friend has asked us to come and enjoy a week with he and his wife at their beach house.

We jumped at the invitation!

Life has been very busy for both of us and we are

welcoming this much needed and deserved time together.

Dick so loves the beach atmosphere and can't wait to get there.

He has been going to this beach house for the past two years, on his Man-cation Retreats...

and is really excited to show me how beautiful it is.

Stay posted for pictures....

~Happy Mother's Day~

2010-05-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

What would I do.....without my Mom?

My mom is a very special woman...

She is an amazingly talented writer, poet, genealogist and family historian.

She is the mother of 4, Grandmother of 17 and

Great-Grandmother of 29 1/2.

We've shared many afternoons reminiscing over my years growing up;
family activities and working on family photos and history.

I would have been lost if my mom hadn't been there:

When I had my first child and didn't know anything about being a mom;

When I was a single mom with five children under 10 years;

When I was a working mom and needed help with the kids till I got home;

When I needed a home for me and my kids;

When I just needed someone's listening ear;
When I needed my mother's love.

This Mother's Day....

I would like to thank my mother, for always

being there and never giving up on me....

for loving me unconditionally and

always making sure that we had

love and harmony in our home.
My daughter-in-law, Holly once told me that she saw a glimpse
of my mom in me...I like to think that!

I love you mom and want you to know that I appreciate

the perfect example you have been to me...

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Colton's "18th" Birthday

2010-04-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

The months of March and April have been busy months, with nine birthdays just in our
immediate family. Happy Birthday.... Dick, Stephanie and myself, Heidi, Haley, Carson and McKenzie, Jason and Colton. Happy 1st Anniversary to Jason and Heidi on April 6th.

Today....is Colton's "18th" Birthday.

I'm a proud mom of a great teenager and I have to brag a little and update you on the accomplishments that he has made this year....

Colton has had a very busy year and great exciting things are happening in his life. He will be turning 18 on April 28th. He will receive his Eagle Scout award at the end of this month. This achievement is something that he's worked on for quite some time. I know that the merit badges that he has earned has helped him to meet personal goals. I believe the scouting program has had a positive influence on Colton and has helped him to be the honest,

hard-working and loving person that he is today.

Colton will be graduating from Seminary as a 4 year graduate next month. I know Seminary was not an easy thing for him to stick with, especially having to get up for early morning Seminary classes. However, he knew it was another goal he had to work on in order to get his Eagle Scout award. The knowledge that he has learned from Seminary will help him to be a better Missionary when the time comes.

He will be graduating from Maple Mountain High School at the end of May. He and his classmates will be the first to graduate from this brand new High School. At the first of the school year Colton wasn't sure that he wanted to change schools. He had attended his first 2 years of high school at Spanish Fork High. It was a choice he made himself and a week before school was to start he enrolled at Maple Mountain High. He has enjoyed many fun activities, including golfing on the Maple Mountain, Golden Eagles, golf team.

Last week, Colton and his Dad traveled to Artesia, New Mexico. They went there to attend our son Cody's graduation from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (Border Patrol). We are proud of Cody and the sucess he has made towards his career in law enforcement. Cody has been a special big brother and mentor in Colton's life. This special occasion brought the three of them together and was a bonding time they will never forget.

I can't believe my youngest is grown and almost ready to leave home. However, I can be at ease knowing that he can do anything that he sets his mind too. He has shown me through his

determination in attaining his goals, integrity in all things, service and love for people.

We are proud of you Colton and wish you success in your exciting future.

Love, Mom and Dad

Happy "39th" Birthday Jason

2010-04-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

I remember the anticipation and joy of having my first child.

Back in those days, you didn't know the sex of the baby

before it was born.

In order to be semi-prepared and have things ready for the baby,

we used colors like, green, yellow, white.

The thrill of holding your first born

right after delivery can't be put into words.

Jason age 3 years old

I have watched with happiness, pleasure and love

as Jason has grown to be the man he is today.

I like telling stories that my children may have forgotten,

or hadn't even been told....

I remember when Jason was about five years old.

We were driving down the road and out of the "mouths of babe", he said,

"Mom, your a fox"!

I don't know where he had heard the term "fox", but I didn't care.

It was priceless at the time.

Every mom likes to be complimented in some way,

but to me this was the ulitmate compliment that a child could give a mom!

Jason has always been the "hard to relate to," kind of child.

In his own way he tells me he loves me...

through his cards that he sends me and the sweet words of love he writes,

through his tender kisses and hugs when he embraces me,

through his excitement and conversation when he calls to talk to me

about something happening in his life.

Jason sent me a birthday message for my 60th birthday, he wrote...

One of the things that I remember about my mom is that

she was the Greatest Mom Golfer in the world.

When my friend, Brian Poulsen and I would go down to Timp Golf Course

to play golf,

I would always get compliments on how good of a golfer my mom was.

I would just look at Brian and have the biggest smile on my face.

My mom is one of the reasons why I golf today.

I always tried to beat my mom at golf and

when I did, I thought I was ready for the PGA.

I love you mom, you are the greatest!

Love Jason

Jason, you have been a joy in my life.

I love you and hope all your wishes come true!

Happy Birthday honey!
Love, Mom

~Colton...on my mind~

2010-04-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

I was realizing today, how fast time flies....Colton is turning '18' in a few days

and it seems like yesterday that I was laying in my hospital bed,

looking at this little miracle that was given to us.

We have been so blessed to have him in our lives....

he brought so much joy and love to our family.

I know that Heavenly Father sent him to us to complete our family

and bring us all together. (All nine of us)

Five days after I delivered Colton,

I had a Cardiovascular Spasm,(heart attack)

that could have taken my life.

I know that my Heavenly Father had a plan for me

to continue to be there for my newborn son.

With the help of my loving husband and sweet children

they helped me regain my health, so I could be there for them also!

To my son Colton....

"Hold on to what is good, even if it's a handful of earth, hold on to what you

believe, even if it's a tree that stands by itself. Hold on to what you must do,

even if it's a long way from here. Hold on to your life, even if it's easier to let go.

Hold on to my hand, even if someday I'll be gone away from you."

Pueblo Indian Prayer

Rain /Snow go away....

2010-04-02T08:30:00.001-07:00

I'm so ready for SUNSHINE!

It's funny how the weather controls your moods.

I saw this picture and it totally describes how

I want to curl up and hide till the sun comes out....

Maybe if the rain and snow continues this weekend, I'll
curl up in a chair and start reading another
Nicholas Sparks book, "Last Song".
Dick and Colton are away for the weekend, visiting

Cody in New Mexico, for his graduation from the Border Patrol.
So I have the perfect time to do

some of the things I've been wanting to do.
I'll be visiting my grandchildren for Easter and
taking them an Easter treat from Grandma TeeTee.

Happy "60th" Birthday, TeeTee

2010-03-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

Birthday's aren't always a thing people want to talk about or even experience.

My birthday has always been something I look

forward to....

I share my birthday with my identical twin.

I guess that's what makes my birthday special!

It's been 60 fun-filled years with my sister...

Our birthdays consisted of....

Always taking the day off... to be together,

Lunch dates, shopping sprees, evening dinners with our husbands,

the excitement of seeing what each other gives, for a birthday present....

only to find, we've given each other the same thing or something very similar.

We've traveled to Arizona a few times to visit my daughter Jessica, to celebrate our

birthday with her (Jessica's birthday is 3 days before ours, on the 25th)

Our birthday cards to each other,

have always been something we try making a little more

personal and fun....

This one says...

You and I are proof that there can be room for

two princesses in one family

Two sisters...sharing precious moments....

This one says...

"Nobody nose me like, you do"....

This one... so typical of how we react to each other,

"If you did it, I did it too"...

Thanks, TeeTee for 60 wonderful birthdays!

Hope we have many more to share,

Love you,

TeeTee

Some of My Favorite Things....

2010-03-13T11:16:00.000-08:00

Listening to my grandchildren laughing contagiously....

Getting a Text from my grandchildren...just because

Listening to the song. "I'm Yours" by Jason Miraz...

It makes me happy when I hear it

I have many collections....glass cloche's are one of them

Sitting in front of a toasty fireplace...

Soaking in a nice hot tub.....

Did I mention Green is my favorite color....

A garden like this to relax in....

White ceramic dishes of all kinds...

Tulips...my favorite flower....

What are some of your favorite things? Please share....

My Favorite Time of the Year!

2010-03-03T05:53:00.000-08:00

SPRING IS.....

My favorite time of the year!

After a long drawn out winter,

I am so ready for the snow to be gone and see the joys of Spring appear.

I look forward to:

Seeing my favorite flower, the tulip, poking up out of the ground

Waking up to birds singing outside my window

Bringing in a fresh picked bouquet of flowers to brighten up my kitchen

Opening the windows for fresh air to clear out the stale air of winter

Feeling energized for spring cleaning

Pink and white blossoms on the trees

Decorating for Spring with, nests, eggs and most importantly bunnies

Taking an evening walk with my honey

Feeling the warmth of the sun and inhaling the smell of Spring

Walking out the door with just a light sweater on

Putting away the layers of winter clothes and replacing them with Spring/Summer clothing

Enjoying my flowering plants on my front porch

Take a moment and write down a few of your favorite things about Spring...

and then....watch them happen!

"60 things in the 60th year of your life"

2010-01-27T17:17:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about what I could do different to challenge myself to do things
I haven't done before. I will be celebrating my 60th birthday in March.
Luckily, I have been blessed with good health, a beautiful family and a good life.
I decided, instead of creating a "bucket list",
I want to challenge myself to "60 in 60". Sixty things to do in my sixtieth year of life.
I've been wanting to take my dad's old chair, I inherited and reupholstering it.
We moved into a new home last year and this spring we will be putting in a yard.
Designing my own yard is something I think would be fun.
More than anything, blogging creates excitement in not knowing what you're going to
reveal about yourself, your family and your interests from one day to the next.
I hope to make this year, one I won't forget!

Annual Pearce Snow Party 2010

2010-01-23T08:22:00.000-08:00

We had another beautiful January day for our
Annual Pearce Snow Party.
It wouldn't be the BEST Snow Party, without....
Ed, Stephanie and their family, hosting at their house in Hobble Creek Canyon.
Unfortunately, this year we were missing some of our family members...
Jason, Heidi and their kids, Jessica, Rocky and Samantha, and Cody.

Haley and Cole's kids Tanzynn and Ty look forward to this

activity every year...but couldn't make it.
We also missed, Jennifer (Nick's wife). Hopefully next year we can all be there.
A party wouldn't be a party without all the extras....
wassail and hot chocolate simmering on the stove; a pot of Dick's famous chili;
Christie's chewey carmel popcorn; Uncle Ed's firepit (set up to keep us warm);
and of course our very own photographer,
Heather Telford to catch those famous candid moments!
Thanks to all, for making memories....never to forget!

Keeping toasty by the fire...

Grandpa holding Krew....
Haley with her mom....The two Tee Tee'sGrandma Tee Tee with Krew....Grandpa Dick catching a few rays.... Ma and Pa Pearce....Colton and Carson flying down the hill.... Colton loving his mom....Jeff and Holly.... Jeff giving "Q" and Corbin a ride on the 4-wheeler... Holly and Quinton....

Corbin all bundled up.... Quinton...gorgeous blue eyes!!Deagan and his mommy.... Haley, Krew and Cole...."say cheese"Krew with his mommy....Krew laughing with his daddy.... Brandon and Nichole, catching a moment together.... Dylan with his million dollar smile....McKenzie checking out the hill on her sleigh...Carson enjoying the ride.... The Host's...Stephanie and Ed....Nicholas, loading up the 4-wheeler.... Ashley, Conner and Caden....hanging onAllie, the brown eyed girl...

Already...a month of change

2010-01-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

Cody Pearce 2009

This month has already been a month of change.

Our son Cody was accepted into the Border Patrol on January 11th.

He took a plane to Bellingham, Washington

to report and then flew to Artesia, New Mexico for Post training.
He will graduate from Post Acadamy on April 2nd.

Following Post, he will start a rigorous eight weeks of Spanish Language training.

Cody will then fly home to pack up his car and drive to Kingsville, Texas

for a 6-8 months training on the Texas/Mexican border.

His final destination will be in Bellingham, Washington

on the Washington/Canadian border.

This last December, Cody graduated from the University of Utah with his bachelors degree.

Cody has always wanted to go into Law Enforcement...with a focus in FBI work.

He will be following in the footsteps of his Grandpa Pearce,

who retired with the Salt Lake Sheriffs Department after serving for 31 years.

Also, Cody's dad has worked for Utah State Corrections for almost 20 years.

We are very proud of Cody and his accomplishments.

We'll miss you Cody, and we will be praying for you.

We know that you will be very successful in your new career.

My Sweet Samantha

2010-01-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

When Jessica called me, to ask if I could come down to Arizona and watch Samantha

while she and Rocky go on a cruise,

I jumped at the chance to get out of this bitter cold weather and enjoy seeing my kids and bonding with my Sweet Samantha.

Samantha and I had a great time. She had a cold and not feeling up to going to school Friday, so we took the time and caught up on all that's going on in her life. We enjoyed reading together, getting pedicures, eating out (her favorite....Wendy's hamburger with ketchup only) went to see Princess and the Frog and went to a birthday party

(my nephew, Dusty Heal's 30th).

Samantha showed me one of her favorite toys she received at Christmas, her ZuZu pet.She named her, Mrs NumNumz. She is a mechanical hamster that has her own play place.

I told Samantha that Mrs. NumNumz needed a playmate, so we went to Toys R Us and got another ZuZu pet. I'm not sure what she named her?

Samantha got to spend some time with her 2nd cousin, Kimball. What perfect timing to have all my nieces and nephews there to enjoy the celebration with them.

Happy 30th Birthday Dusty...

Landon Heal (I think he should be in the movies!)

Dallas and Colleen's sweet little boy...

Dallas and Colleen

Peter and Jessie
Dusty and Mandy
Thanks for a great weekend! Until next time.....

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-01T14:08:00.000-08:00

It's been a whole year since I started this blog. In the past, I've usually started projects that I really want to do and then they usually fizzle out, due to losing interest in them.

However, I feel pretty proud of myself for blogging about the people in my life and my interests. I enjoy looking back and feeling that I have accomplished something worthwhile.

It's been a year of wonderful happenings and some sadness.....

In March the County Sheriff's Office offered me a job in Sex Crimes. It has been a very interesting department to work in. I have been fortunate to work with some really good people.

Knowing that I would have to work 6 months without taking time off, I decided to go to Arizona and had a great time visiting my daughter Jessica, my son Jeffrey and their families.

Jeff and Holly announced they were going to have their third child in October. Three kids under three years....happy days, another grandchild.

My oldest son, Jason married his sweetheart Heidi on April 6th. Heidi brought to our family two more grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

We now have 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Welcome to our family.

This year we said good-bye to a wonderful lady, Judy Young (Grandmother to 3 of my grandchildren Dylan, Carson and McKenzie). She battled cancer for 11 years but always had a will to live out life to its fullest. She is missed, but I believe that families are forever.

Till we meet again, Judy.

In May, Dick and I decided it was time for us to buy a house. Colton was going to be a senior in high school and had one more year before graduating. We decided to stay in Spanish Fork and have Salisbury Homes build us our home.

We received a call from Jeffrey that his work had accepted his transfer to Utah. They had a month to get ready and move...we all scrambled to try to find a place for them to rent. They found one, but two weeks before the move they found out the house had extensive smoke damage due to a smoke bomb the owner had put in a whole in the ground to kill a rodent and it caused smoke damage to the house. The owner had to gut the house.

Jeff and Holly moved in with us for the three weeks it was going to take to finish the house.

Two months later. the first of July, they moved into their home in Provo. It's been a great place for them, they live just 4 blocks from Haley and Cole.

We have several BYU fans in our family....this year was the start of the BYU

tailgate parties. Cole and Haley take their trailer down and park it on BYU campus.

We enjoy barbeque's, sitting by the fire roasting marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate.

This summer some of our future Olympians came away with medals...McKenzie (11 years old) took the gold in the Utah Summer Games in Tumbling.

Samantha (5 years old) took overall 3rd place in the backstroke at her swim meet.

We're so proud of them.

We closed on our new home in August and have enjoyed it so much. Especially this winter, having a nice fireplace to curl up to (something I've been wanting for some time).

The first of September our little grandson, Krew Christensen, (age 3) started school at Giants Steps. This is a school that primarily helps children that are developmentally delayed or has been diagnosed with autism. Cole and Haley were so surprised when they got the call, that he had been accepted, knowing that there was a 1-2 year waiting list.

Krew has loved going to school and is learning new things all the time.

Jeff and Holly had their new addition....

Deagan Jeffrey Moss, October 21st.

It was their first time giving birth to a child in Utah.

Corbin and Quinton both were so excited to have a new little brother.

The economy has been a tough one this year, Grand Canyon University, where Jeff was employed closed their doors in Utah. Jeff has been looking for new employment for a couple of months now. With the help of loving family and friends they have been able to survive.

We had three of our children get their degrees from college this year.

Jeff graduated from University of Phoenix with his Bachelors Degree,

Cody graduated from University of Utah with his Bachelors Degree and

Cole Christensen our son-in law,

graduated from Utah Valley University with his Bachelors Degree.

We are very proud of all of them and know that they will be blessed for their hard work.

Cody received a call from the Federal Government to serve on the Border Patrol. He will be stationed in Northern Washington on the Canadian/Washington border. We wish Cody success in the start of his new career.

November 17th, Dick and I celebrated our 20th year Anniversary.

Time flies when you're having fun...

Life is great with my best friend for eternity!

We didn't do anything special...however we did take time

to reminisced about those 20 years and what it has brought us.

We are so thankful for our children,

and how they all have grown up and made us so proud!

We are looking forward to the next 20 years...... growing old together!

The Holidays have been different this year as I have seen wonderful acts of love. I especially liked the quote of President Uchtdorf, who says.....

"It is a season of charitable acts of kindness and brotherly love. It is a season of being more reflective about our own lives and about the many blessings that are ours. It is a season of forgiving and being forgiven".

We all spent more time with our loved ones this year. We truly felt the spirit as we watched and received the actions of people truly helping others in such hard times. We are so thankful for our Savior and the example He set for us.

We are looking forward to a new and prosperous year. May we all stay in tune with our Heavenly Father and be of service to our fellowman, to love one another everyday and throughout the whole year.

Love to all,

Dick, Christie and Colton

Family Pictures

2009-12-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

A year and a half has gone by since our last family picture.....

The stress begins: What photographer to go with;

When to schedule it; Where to have it taken;

What to wear; make sure everyone can be there when scheduled;

Worry about the weather if it's an outside photo shoot;

etc. etc. etc...

We lucked out, everything turned out great:

Thanks Heather for making it worth it!

Here are some of our favorites....

We'd like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Year!

Love, The Pearce's

A New Du....

2009-11-02T18:54:00.000-08:00

So, after losing the 25lbs that I've been wanting to lose since the first of the year...

(another New Years resolution to cross off my list)

I decided it was time to do something with the hair.

For the last 5 years my hair has been thinning and losing body...

something that I have to live with.

Luckily, my daughter Nichole (my personal hair designer) can do wonders.

I even have people tell me I look younger...how can you beat that?

Thanks Nichole I needed that!

Happy 37th Birthday Nichole!

2009-09-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

I bet you didn't know that the summer before you were born

your dad took me to Disneyland....

There was an artist that was drawing charactures of people...

This is one of me carrying you!

This is your dad in his 1970 Chevelle Super Sport.

Just thought that would be a fun thing for you to know...

You brought so much joy to my life when you were born,

(Nichole 3 months old)

(Nichole 18 months, the year she won Future Miss Orem 1974)

listening and sharing in things that were important to you taught me a lot

about the responsibilities and joys of being a parent...

(Nichole 3 years old)

And watching you turn out to be the wonderful woman and mother you are

has made me realize something I've known all along....

you're a very special daughter!

Happy Birthday, I love you,

Mom

(Nichole with daughter McKenzie)

Happy 88th Birthday Mom!

2009-09-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

Mom, if you feel special today,

it's because it's your birthday

and everyone's wishing you

all the happiness you deserve.

You are being celebrated as a wonderful woman,

an amazing mother and a great GG.

I want you to know,

I feel honored to have you as my mother,

and very proud to be your daughter.

Hope you have a great birthday and many more to come.

Love, your daughter, Christie

Christie and her Mom

The Finished Product....

2009-08-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

We are finally in our new home. We are excited and feel very blessed to have a beautiful new home. The experience was full of changes, anticipation and even tears, but we feel it was worth it. Our home is a 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths with a full unfinished basement. We have alot of work ahead of us....put in the yard, add a deck, fencing and much more. However, we are looking forward to adding our own touches to make it more our home.

Please feel free to come and visit us at 22 N 1650 E, Spanish Fork, Utah, 84660.

Jessica, here are the pictures you have been waiting for. We can't wait for you, Rocky and Samantha to come stay.

August 2009

The Pearce Home

Loft area at the top of the entry

Colton's Bedroom

Guest Bathroom

Study

Laundry Room

Master Suite

Master Bath with a walk-in closet

One of my favorite things.... a soaker tub!

Stairway to entry

Sitting Room (waiting for furniture)

Great Room

Great Room from dining area

Dining Room

Kitchen

Half bath

Update on Our "Abode"

2009-07-19T11:16:00.000-07:00

Progress is in the making....

We are shocked at how fast things are going on our new house.

I finally decided I needed to start packing....

the scheduled move-in date is August 15th.

I am still feeling like this is a dream...I will finally have a home

to share and enjoy with family and friends.

Dick is wondering if he bit off more than he can chew with 1/4 of an acre

to landscape and fence.

"Oh well, honey, we will have a football field for our grandkids to play on!"

Drywall has been installed and mudded, the outside

has been prepared for stucko, the front steps poured...

Framing completed, roof and windows added and

porch and driveway poured...

It's starting to take shape...

Framing is started...

Basement and foundation was poured...

The foundation is ready to be poured...

Footings have been poured...

Happy Birthday "Q"

2009-06-08T14:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon we were invited to celebrate Quinton Royd Moss' FIRST year birthday. We all gathered at the Canyon View Park, up Provo Canyon. It was a beautiful sunny day and we had lots of yummy food to eat. Jeffrey grilled the hot dogs and everyone brought a potluck dish. Needless to say everyone had a great time!

Here are a few pictures taken during the birthday party....

"Q" opening his birthday presents....

Thinking.... "maybe I shouldn't have eaten that much,

I'm feeling a little sick"....

Carson looking on, while Mom and Corbin help "Q" open his presents....

Dick and Cody (Father and son) enjoying the party....

A Pyramid made by:

front row; Ashley, Tanzynn, McKenzie

second row; Conner and Alie

top; Corbin (with the help of Aunt Nichole)

McKenzie and Tanzynn, basking in the sun...

GG and Grandpa Gordon staying cool in the shade...

Cole and Krew (Krew not wanting to leave the party)

A New Dwelling

2009-05-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

The time has come for us to make a move. Due to the great tax credit, both the Federal and the State are offering to new construction home buyers, we couldn't pass up the GREAT DEALS! We chose to build our home in the Sunny Ridge Development, west of the new Maple Mountain High School.

Colton has still got another year of high school left, keeping us here in Spanish Fork City. Colton is still undecided as to whether to begin his Senior year at the new Maple Mountain High School (The Golden Eagles) or stay where he has been going for the last two years, at Spanish Fork High (The Don's).

Here is a view of the lot we have chosen. We are still surrounded by the beautiful mountains, which we have loved so much.

Keep posted for the day to day updates.......

Memorial Day

2009-05-23T16:55:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Memorial Day. This coming Monday will be Memorial Day. It has always been a family tradition to go to the Provo Cemetery, on the morning of Memorial Day.

When I was a kid, our family would get up early and help mom pick several bouquets of flowers from our garden. We would take them and deliver them to our Grandparents graves. The Cemetery was filled with people and beautiful flowers everywhere. If we got there early enough we would be able to listen to the memorial service of the fallen soldiers.

Last year my Sister, Stephanie and I went to visit our brothers grave in Mesa, Arizona. We were surprised to see not many people keep the same tradition as we do. The temperature, in Arizona, that time of year is in the 100's. That could be the reason people in Arizona don't decorate the graves like we do in Utah. The flowers would not last a day.

Memorial Day is a day to reminisce and think of those loved ones that have passed on. I shall always remember them and keep their memories with me forever.

Christie and Stephanie visiting their brother Kim's grave

Memorial Day 2008, Mesa Arizona

Kim Michael Heal

Born, April 25, 1955

Died, March 5, 2004

Birthdays, Birthdays, Birthdays!

2009-04-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

April 25, 1998
Carson Ward Young and McKenzie Nichole Young were born to Brandon and Nichole Young.

Our first and only set of twins so far..... They will be 11 years old on April 25th.

Happy Birthday Carson and McKenzie! Love you, Grandma Christie

Carson and McKenzie (1 month old)

Carson (10 years old)

McKenzie (10 years old)

April 27, 1971

Jason Coy Moss was born to Royd and Christie Moss.

Jason was our first baby and his grandparents first grandchild. A couple weeks before my due date,

Dr. Wendall Vance was concerned with my weight gain and put me in the hospital to lose weight.

I lost 7 lbs in three days and I was going home, till I started into labor and stayed for another 24 hours.

I had my beautiful baby boy, Jason on the 27th of April. Jason will be 38 years old.

Happy Birthday Jason! Love, Mom

Jason with his Grandmother Heal (1 month old)

Jason with his Mom

April 28, 1992

Richard Colton Pearce was born to Richard and Christie Pearce. Twenty-one years and one day from having my first child, Jason. I was 42 years old and Dick and I were excited to have our first child together. When we got married in 1989, Dick had a son, Cody (6 years old), I had 5 children ranging from ( 17-10 years of age) So when Colton came along it gave us (His, Mine and Ours) Perfect!!!!

Happy Birthday Colton! Love, Mom

Colton (1 month old)

Colton (16 years old)

Happy Birthday Haley!

2009-04-08T05:13:00.000-07:00

Today is my baby daughter's birthday. Haley is 32 years old today.

The day she was born her dad decided for the first time

to watch his child be born. Back then it was rare that the father was able to watch the births.

He hadn't seen his other three kids come into the world and he decided it was time.

It was a special time for all of us.

Haley at 3 months old

Haley with the love of her life, Cole

The Sun is Great Therapy!

2009-04-04T11:55:00.000-07:00

Before starting my new job, I decided to take a week to relax and enjoy the sun. It has been over a year since Dick and I have been able to take a vacation together. It was now time!

We packed up the car and drove to St. George for the weekend. It just happened that Haley, Cole and Krew were going to be there for the weekend also. The guys got in golf, Haley, Krew and I soaked up some sun by the pool. I did get some shopping in.

We then drove to Mesa, Arizona on Sunday and spent the rest of the week with

Jessica and her family and Jeff and his.

We had gorgeous weather all week long, while it was snowing and cold in Utah.

We couldn't have picked a better week.

We enjoyed morning walks together, golf, shopping, eating out at our favorite spots, playing with the grandkids and relaxing in the warm sunshine.

I don't know who said "Sun is good therapy?" But I totally agree!

We had the best time, thanks kids for making it a great vacation!

Haley and Krew playing in the pool

Haley, just got back from Mexico, that's why she has the awsome tan.

Samantha was so excited to show me her very own garden.

She and her Papa plant a garden every year.

I got to pick one of her very first strawberries. (Yum, Yum)

Corbin showed me how he can read his book all by himself.

Such a smart kid!!!!

Quinton, did what he likes to do best....eat!

....Happy Birthday Tee Tee....

2009-03-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

Not many people get to celebrate their birthday on the

same day together. (March 28th)

Fortunately, I have been able to celebrate my birthday

with my identical twin sister for 59 years.

This year I was away for my birthday...

so we'll just have to extend our birthday for a few

more days.....That won't hurt us! More presents..hehe!

Thanks for the memories Tee Tee! Happy Birthday!

Christie and Stephanie

Happy Birthday Jessica!

2009-03-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

For the last few years I've planned a get-a-way from the winter weather in Utah and go to the Sun State (Arizona) where two of my children live. It usually happens around birthdays, Jessica's birthday on March 25th and my birthday on the 28th. Usually I come down with my sister, Stephanie and we make a trip of pampering ourselves, celebrating our birthday and Jessica's birthday and shopping till we drop. This year, it happened that Dick and I were able to spend a well deserved week together. It happened that we picked probably the best week to be away, since it's been snowing in Utah since we left.

Yesterday, was Jessica's birthday (34 years old) she still looks 20!

I remember the day I had her. Utah had an earthquake and I remember my hospital bed moved. I was on the third floor of the hospital, so I felt it pretty good.
I also remember bringing her home from the hospital on my birthday and thinking it was the best birthday present I could ever ask for!
Jessica has been my daughter who has always been very independent, always knowing she can do anything if she puts her mind to it. But, she has always known, her family is most important to her. We love you Jessica and are proud of the person you have become.
Samantha wants you to know, you are the best mom she could ever have.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Things happen for a reason....

2009-03-10T14:58:00.000-07:00

Two days before Christmas Day I was notified by my supervisor that they were laying me off .

The sheriff's office was downsizing, due to their budget...I was one of the unfortunate ones.

I was upset and scared, when I thought we weren't going to have

a second income coming in....

my work did give me a month severance pay. I was thankful for that.

On the positive side....

Jeff and his family were coming up to spend 10 days with us.

Jessica and her family were coming up a couple days after Christmas. My whole family was going to be together for the first time in about 7 years, leaving me home to enjoy my family!

Haley's babysitter was just going on leave to have a baby. Haley was needing someone to watch Krew three days a week for 6 weeks. (you don't need to pull my arm too hard)

It brought back memories of me tending the little Krewton, the first year he was born....

I think, he thinks I'm his second mom. (I love it!)

....Things happen for a reason....

It's been two months. Last week, I was offered a job with the Sheriff's Office

to come back and work for them in their Sex Crimes Division.

I'll be starting the first of April.

Conclusion:

Make every day count, appreciate every moment and take from it everything that you possibly can, for you may never be able to experience it again.

Thanks to my family for being such a support through this time of transition...I love you all!

....A Remembrance of Our Loved Ones....

2009-03-01T18:03:00.000-08:00

This week will mark the passing of two of our loved ones.

Dicks dad passed away March 1, 2004. Five years ago today.

Dick's dad was one of the most loving and caring people I have ever known.

He left us way too soon in life, but left us with many wonderful memories.

I felt his love, as if he were my own dad.....

Dickie and I miss you dad, and we're thinking of you every day.

My little baby brother passed away March 5, 2004. Four days after Dick's dad died.

My sister, Stephanie and I loved having a baby brother.

We both were 5 years old when he was born. We loved taking care of him like

he was our own baby.

Kim grew up to be the best son, brother, husband, dad that any of us could ever want.

He is now a grandfather, and I know he is looking down and boasting with pride.

His only daughter will be getting married this summer and I know that he will

be watching over Jessie with all the love a father could give.

We miss you little brother and know that you are out of pain and in a loving place.

Photo Tag...I'm it.....

2009-02-26T19:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, so here are the rules:

1. go to the document/ my pictures site on your computer
2. go to your sixth file
3. go to your sixth picture
4. blog about it
5. tag 6 people

It's interesting that Holly tagged me and the photo is all about her and Jeff...

September 2005, Jeff and Holly purchase their first home.

March 2006, my son-in-law, Cole, Dick, Colton and I, drove down to help Jeff

put a new roof on his house.

Cole was the supervisor, (he had roofed before and had the roofing tools)

Jeff, Dick and Colton followed his lead. The first day, they were blessed with cloud cover.

The second day, due to the heat (90's) they weren't able to finish.

The third day, they started out early and finished around noon.

It's great what you can accomplish when you work as a team!

The end result.....you would have thought the professionals did it!

I had to include the 7th picture to show Colton was there....

Now I tag:

1. Stephanie

2. Kevyn

3. Mandy

4. Brittany

5. Michelle

6. Nichole

Have fun!

Happy Birthday Samantha!

2009-02-23T11:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday dear Samantha,

Happy Birthday to you!

...She's 5 years old today.....

I can't believe my grandaughter,

Samantha Muriel Arredondo is 5 years old!

It seems like only yesterday when my little Samantha was

born February 23, 2004.

I don't get to see her very often....maybe three times a year.

But, she always seems to remember her Grandma Tee Tee when we see each other.

Here is a picture of Samantha's mom (Jessica)

....she was just about 5 years old....

....Just a few of my favorite pictures of Samantha....

....Samantha Muriel's name sake ....

(GreatGrandmother Muriel)

Face lift Finale

2009-02-21T20:20:00.000-08:00

I've finally finished my living room face lift. I can't believe how hard it is to bring everything together. I'm pretty happy with the end result. The rug was the biggest dilemma....trying to find that perfect one. I found this lucious/shimmery cream shag at TJ Maxx's in St. George. It barely fit in the car. All the way home I kept questioning whether it was the right one. I got it home and it was perfect. Next, trying to find a grouping for the living room wall. I think I picked up 4 or 5 different things and took them back before finding the right grouping. I still need to find pillows, but that will happen in time.

It was a fun project and I now can sit and enjoy.....

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T07:50:00.000-08:00

.....The beginning....

November 17, 1989

Dick and Christie's Wedding Day

How love changes us...

Valentine...... Be Mine!

I want to publicly wish my sweetheart a Happy Valentine's Day...

Thanks for being my wonderful husband,

In so many ways, you're the hero of our family- the one who holds us all together with your devotion and support- the driving force behind so many good things that happen in our lives...

There's no way I could ever thank you enough for everything you do and for all the ways you're such a terrific husband, but on Valenine's Day, I want you to know how much I cherish all we have together and that I love you with all my heart.

All my love, Christie

....My Valentine gave me 2 dozen tulips for Valentines Day

(he knows they are my favorite flower)....

She needed it more than me????

2009-02-10T16:52:00.000-08:00

Does anyone have a conscience anymore?

This is my story........

I had to exchange an item back to Victoria Secret. (No it wasn't what you're thinking, no matter how sexy they are they don't make me look like the models) I walked into the store and was pleasantly surprised, the store was empty. The girl working there asked if she could help me. I got what I went in there for and was checking out. The girl had to call her manager from over on the other side of the store to approve the exchange. I left and went home. About 2 hours later I noticed my wallet was missing from my purse. I immediately called Victoria Secret and asked if they found a wallet? They told me that it was there. I called Dick and asked him to pick it up. He went to get it and called me. He asked me how much money I had in it. I told him that I had over $100.00's. He said there was only $25.00's. I called the store and asked for the manager. I told her about the missing money and she seemed very surprised. She took my name and told me that she would look into it further. Meanwhile, Dick went back to the store and talked with the manager. She told him that the girl who had helped me, had left for the day. Dick told her that he wanted the girl to call him the next day at his work, at Adult Probation and Parole. (The girl picked the wrong person to steal from)

I figured atleast $80.00's was taken from my wallet. I know that I made a stupid mistake in leaving my wallet, but it still irritates me that someone would do that. I don't know why she didn't take all of the money.....she probably thought, no one would notice it missing if she left some money in the wallet. She must have needed it a heck of alot more than me....

Stay tuned for the finale.....

"Tagged" 25 things about me....

2009-02-08T20:08:00.000-08:00

1. I enjoy decorating and accessorizing things in my home.

2. I never go out of the house without my make-up on and my hair done. I'm afraid I'll run into an old boyfriend.

3. My wardrobe consists primarily of black and white. I've vowed this year to add color to my wardrobe. I did it...I bought a colorful dress for Valentines Day.

4. I'm dependant on my husband to wake me up every morning. I hate to wake up to an alarm clock.

5. I am an impulsive shopper. Another bad habit I'm working on this year.

6. I make my bed first thing when I wake up in the morning. It really makes the day start out right.

7. I get a pedicure once a month. Sometimes twice.

8. I love kissing my husband. We try to give each other a 10 second kiss every day.

9. I sleep with 3 pillows... One under my head, one between my legs, and the other under my arm.

10. I love the sunshine. It makes me happy.

11. I love being a grandma. Grandchildren are the best!

12. I want to lose 10 lbs. this year.... and keep it off!

13. I hate being alone at night. Actually, I just hate being alone.

14. I iron my sheets. There is nothing like fresh ironed sheets to slip into at night after a hard working day.

15. I'm a romantic. Nothing like curling up to a good love story, ( movie or book) and being taken away.

16. My husband is my best friend. He is the man I can love, trust and respect all of the years of my life.

17. Spring is my favorite season... I love seeing the tulips and daffodils pop up in the springtime after a long winter.

18. I hate the cold weather... but can't see me living anywhere else but here in Utah. I love the four seasons.

19. What makes me feel good.....doing a service for others.

20. I wish for a healthy/happy life for my family.

21. My favorite color is green.

22. My favorite shop is TJ Maxx in St. George, Utah. I broke my record and spent 7 hours straight shopping.... needless to say I literally shopped till I dropped.

23. I love taking walks with my husband. We love doing anything together... except he doesn't like shopping with me......I can't understand it...(hee, hee)

24. I love being the mother of 7 children, and 9 grandchildren. Hoping more will come!

25. I get teary eyed and cry in church.

I tag everyone....Do it, it's fun!

Time for a Face Lift.....

2009-02-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately not for my face, but for my living room. It's been about 12 years since we had a new sofa and loveseat. Since the living room is the only room we watch Television in, we were due for a new set. I've been looking for quite a while and found a brown Velvet set at IM Home. It was the floor model and they were giving it away at a great deal! I couldn't pass it up. My problem now is finding a rug and pillows that coordinate. Decorating can be exausting!! I get frustrated when I can't find everything in one store. I'm having to cart the loveseat cushion in stores to match colors. So far, right now my room is half finished because I can't find the complete items.

Dick thought he would contribute his item of decor...... a 50" Plasma TV and stand. You all

say, " what's wrong with that????" What took me soooo long, to find the right sofa and

loveseat, was to find a pair that would not be oversized for our small living space. Now, when we are watching TV, it feels like we're literally in the movie.... I know, it is a man thing.

Now, we don't ever have to go to the "Daytona 500," it comes to us in High Definition, in our own small but homey living room.

Dick's 50" Plasma High Definition TV

A Break from the Snow

2009-01-23T06:33:00.000-08:00

Lucky me! I was asked to go to Arizona by my daughter Haley and her husband Cole. (Twist my arm) Haley had bought tickets for the BIG game with the Arizona Cardinals vs. the Philadelphia Eagles. ( A surprise for Cole) Cole has been a huge fan of the Cardinals for years and had never seen a game in person. This game was determining who will go to the Super Bowl. So of all games to see, this one was it! The Cardinals won, they are going to the Super Bowl! It was a chance of a life time, Cole will never forget! (Thanks to his cute wife)

The weather was incredible. Eighty degrees all week. It was a week well deserved, after accomplishing so much in my basement. The timing was perfect, I was also there to celebrate my daughter-in-law, Holly's birthday and my son, Jeff's birthday. Holly turned 27 on January 21st. Jeffrey will be a big 30 years old on Saturday January 24th. Holly had a day of pampering and shopping.... Hope you had a Happy one....

To my son Jeffrey, I had to leave before your birthday but I want to wish you a Happy Birthday. I can't believe it has been 30 years! I want you to know how proud I am of the Son, Husband and Father you are. I hope all your dreams come true! Love, Mom

Jeffrey with Corbin on a boat ride with Holly's family....

I spent some time with my daughter Jessica and her family. We came just in time to help her put together a pair of book shelves. Actually, Jessica and Jeffrey put them together,

we watched. The book shelves completed her living area.

It was really good to see my granddaughter Samantha, her birthday is February 23rd and she will turn 5 years old. She will be starting kindergarten this year and she is so excited.

It's a New Year....Time to get organized!

2009-01-15T13:07:00.000-08:00

After the hustle and bustle of the Holidays, I have decided it's a New Year and time to get DOWN and clean and organize my basement. I really wanted to do it before my kids got here for Christmas, but that didn't happen. Plus, I have the time in between jobs right now which makes it a perfect time. It took me two weeks! I'm done and I feel so much better:) I should have taken pictures before, just to show you what an accomplishment I've made.

Believe me it was major! At least I can prove that I did it......

With the help of my handy dandy husband I got some new shelving...

Notice, I still have shelves to fill. That's a first....

Again my honey saved the day and bought me another cabinet for all of my nick-nacks,

antique dishes and misc. trinkets. Trust me, they are both filled......

I know this isn't what your 2 year food supply is supposed to look like, but now I can start working on it...... (one of my new years resolutions)

This is my office/work area... Notice the books are on book shelves and not in the boxes. It's quite exciting to see all the books I didn't know I had.....

I have been collecting flowers for quite some time. These are just a few...
more are in labled boxes....

Again, with the help of my handy man,
I have more shelves and places to hang clothes....
Thanks honey for everything you do!

It was easy keeping my wash up in the 2 weeks I was down in the basement.
It feels sooooo good.....