Lauri-O

Button Lamps–A Pioneer/Liz Tip

2012-01-25T19:12:00.001-08:00

Liz is at my house! Talented, fun, organized Liz. We have been trading skills lately, and, today she is here to help tame my kitchen pantry. There’s the bucket of lard I haven’t any idea what to do with. I never use the stuff. I am in a I’ll-do-whatever-you-suggest-mood and brace myself for adding another item to the ‘give to someone who’ll use it’ option. (who do I know that uses LARD ?!) But no – Liz is not only talented, fun and organized – she is frugal. And SHE says, “I’ll show you how to make button lamps and you can put it in your emergency supplies.” I am intrigued. A What Lamp?

Here’s what I needed: the now-interesting lard (or any fat or oil), a 3x3 in. piece of 100% cotton fabric, a penny (the pioneers would have used a metal button, hence the name), thread, and a plate to set it on to burn and, of course, matches. Set the penny in the center of fabric and gather the ends up with the thread into a charming li’l bundle.

Ta-da. See? Isn’t it as cute as a Hershey kiss?

Coat the whole thing with the lard and set it into a smearing of the stuff too.

Now, strike a match! (yelled the NOSM-private family joke-sorry. Call me to name where that saying comes from.)

Add fuel to your little button lamp by pouring a tablespoon of oil or melted solid fat to the base. It will wick up the oil and burn quite brightly for about a half hour per tablespoon. Keep adding as long as you want light. But remember, this little baby is a one time burn. After she goes out, you’ll have to fashion a new one. If you’re using a solid fat and have no electricity, just melt it over the flame in a metal measuring spoon or cup.

Liz tells me that Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about doing this in her book The Long Winter. I remember loving that book, and read it while enduring a long, Canadian winter. But I don’t remember that part. The boys are going to love this while we finish reading Farmer Boy. My Wolf Cubs are going to hear about this too. I maintain that being frugal is most fun when you don’t HAVE to be.

Funner ‘n Legos OR Redwall

2012-01-21T18:11:00.001-08:00

I’m sitting in the office when I overhear:

Mark: Redwall!

Kyle: Legos!

“Redwall!”, “Legos!” back and forth endlessly. Then, “Redwall!” and “Legos!” are punctuated with “Oof!”, “Ow!” I decide to interfere with a logical solution to this escalating argument.

Me: “Hey, Mark , why don’t you read Redwall, and Kyle, why don’t you play Legos?”

Silence. Stiff, prolonged silence. My motherly advise spurned. Clearly, logic and peace are not the aim here. And apparently, the wrastle is a lot more fun than Legos or Redwall – combined.

Nothing to do but grab the camera.

“Your chin’s so spinney, it’s a sword!” (I think Kyle said that)

Now, if I stick around a little longer with the camera I’ll be able to record some tears. You know, it’s all fun and games until . . .

Various and Sundry January

2012-01-20T19:07:00.001-08:00

Here’s the New Year Crew. I got to ‘take them home with me’, but only for a couple days. Wish I could scoop them all up in one big group hug. Hurry back, kiddos, so we can try that.

My favorite artist at work.

Crafters at work. So pretty and fun were these felt flowers and wreath that ‘almost I was persuaded’ to change my favorite color to purple.

Christmas clean up time. I wish, wish I had a “before” picture of this buffet Caitlin helped me organize. Just picture stacks of homeless cards and projects and books and magazines and dishes. She made short work of it and made it so fun too. This is now a school center. Even the binders and their innards are labeled.

This is not my idea of what to do with our only grandson when he comes to visit. But he decided that Meg’s kennel would be a great place to hang out in, especially if . . .

you can fit inside with your uncle and his lollipop.

Mom’s Eightieth birthday and I only have these two pictures to share. It’s because I was so excited being with my brothers and sisters and mom that I forgot about manning the camera. I just enjoyed good food, great company and stories. I did get one of the Lady. She has such a meaningful and expressive eyebrow arch.

The twins and I have already enjoyed many cuddle and book reading times under this beautiful new afghan Caitlin’s mother sent. Thank you, thank you.

Kristen finished table runners for me. The fabric is so beautiful I just can’t make it so on camera. Come and eat with us and see it in person, I say! Thank you Kristen (aka Miss Christmas at our house).

A New Year For:

2012-01-20T17:08:00.001-08:00

New Year for: Reams of fresh, unwritten-on lined paper - kinda like days of fresh, unwritten experiences ahead. Oh! the possibilities.

Bouquets of freshly sharpened pencils, all with their soft, effective erasers at the ready. Mistakes? Pshaw! No problem!

Stacks of Stuff to Learn,

Timelines to fill up, and reluctant young scholars to encourage.

Senior Man TR

2012-01-12T19:42:00.001-08:00

I dunno, there’s just something about the indigo of denim, the richness of weathered wood and a handsome young man that my camera just loves.

Your pics are done. Come and get them and try not to get Senioritis before it’s time. Good luck, TR, it was a pleasure photographing you.

Summer Glow in January

2012-01-04T22:53:00.001-08:00

Taking a break from some seriously manly photo editing (hang on TR, Ben and Josh, your images are coming, and they’re great), I took a little break for some flowers and the prettiest girl and her little guy ever to be. Can’t wait to see these two yummy people. She just had another birthday, you know. She was the New Year Baby in the Mt. Pleasant hospital that wonderful year when she came to us. Love you Anna.

O Shoot! Another Birthday

2012-01-01T22:13:00.001-08:00

When another birthday rolled around for Jay, there was nothing better to do than go shooting, dine on lemon chicken and razzelberry pie. So we did.

Way fun.

A Baby to Celebrate

2012-01-01T14:04:00.001-08:00

A Princess from on high graces us with her presence. Hello ! Your Highness, Your Sweetness, Your Pinkness, Your Softness, Your Loveliness.

Is it just me? Or does Aubrey look like Mary must have 2000 Christmases ago?

Mr. Blue Eyes Pays a Visit

2011-12-29T12:18:00.001-08:00

Not feeling too well, he and me had a nice long, warm play bath to chase the sniffles, sneezes and coughs and grumps away. It worked.

A little off-season football just before lunch. Gosh the holidays are fun.

Kasey and Kara

2011-12-20T06:17:00.001-08:00

A cold December day did not take away the warmth of this wedding.

It WAS awfully cold wasn’t it McCall? But you were just so darn cute I had to record those alligator tears.

It was much warmer at the reception . . .

Christmas Ball

2011-12-17T19:46:00.001-08:00

As I post, this group is still having a ball at the Senior Ball. When I left they were just getting ready to have cordon bleu, and it smelled soooo good. Just time to post one. I had a ball too.

A New Activity

2011-12-09T20:35:00.001-08:00

As I was going through past years cards that I just couldn’t do away with before, I began to particularly enjoy the many, many artists’ renditions of the Nativity. I decided to begin ‘collecting’ them in earnest and put them in a photo album all together. How fun would that be – page after page of Nativity eye candy. I can never get enough of this glorious story – and the music, words and art that depict His 1st coming to earth. I hope our children and grandchildren can’t either.

I will begin with this one. Kathi send it to us so many years ago I can’t remember when. It was an instant favorite.

You don’t get a peek at His dear toes and baby chubbiness in very many renditions. That’s only one reason I love this one so much.

Deliberating–It’s a Date!

2011-12-09T20:13:00.001-08:00

Jay and I haven’t been ‘dating’. Or, maybe we have been – we just haven’t called our one big LIFE together one big DATE together, which is how I’ve looked at it all these years.

Our Non-Date life has been great. Perhaps “ True Steady Dating” would be a better way to put it.

My big idea to try joining the millions of married daters came when all the planets lined up: Twins with more energy than their mother and muscling out my daily plans; Jay’s responsibilities ever increasing; reading an inspiring, lofty book about motherhood secrets that Anna gave me (Thanks Anna! see below); and a gradual realization that counseling and deliberating together could be very powerful. And how could I take counsel with my Jay unless we actually carved out a block of time alone to do that.

Hence, Friday Forum Dating was born in my mulling, malleable mind. It came to me this morning and now we’ve had our 1st one. We like it. It makes so much sense. He already had the happy obligation to attend Friday Forum, and dressed up in the morning for it. I just dressed up too – for him AND Friday Forum. The talks are inspiring and then we came home and had candlelight ‘dinner’. Downstairs, if I pull the blinds, it’s like night time. I have candles and pretty dishes. There are pinecones, big golden jingle bells, a big golden bow that came on a carrot pudding gift (thanks Linda) and that became my instant table décor. Dipped the glasses rim in water, then sugar, and placed them in the freezer for a few minutes. When they come out they are frosty and crystal-ly.

The Menu:

Soup and salad and grilled tuna/cheese sandwiches.

The soup was left over, and this meal preparation was so simple. All was ready! He was supposed to be home at 11:30 (FF is at 12:30). It didn’t happen. No worries. I’m not like I was in my twenties and get offended at these things. It ended up being even better! We darkened our bedroom and moved everything up after FF instead of before. The table is there permanently now for this very purpose. Sure, the twins were home, but when they heard what was on our agenda (Christmas Planning) there was no shout, pout or cry-I’m–tellin’-you-why, and they left us carefully alone.

Living deliberately – I think I like this planning with your one-and-only.

Bedecked, Bejeweled, Bedazzled Me

2011-12-09T09:12:00.001-08:00

Costume jewelry is on my Christmas fantasy wish list this year. Shallow of me, yes. But there was nothing shallow about the overwhelming display of gifted jewels that dazzled me this morning on a winter morning run. I cried for the beauty of it ,and tried to say thank you with my camera.

This image also treated me with a tiny star. Christmas symbols everywhere!

I think my favorite symbol of Christ at Christmas time are the lights. The effects that light has upon the world are infinite and joyous – so fitting that He is the Light of the world. I love how the light is glowing through the leaves here.

There was more beauty at every turn – I just can’t capture it all! But it’s so fun trying.

Have a Merry Christmas day today.

Belly-Bouncing Visitor at 1st Ward

2011-12-08T04:20:00.001-08:00

1st Ward trivia. Any 1st Warder adult who can call me and identify whose leg is wearing this festive sock will get a fresh baked Razzelberry Pie. (Now, no cheating and asking your kiddos.)

Hint: It is NOT Gary Cox’s.

One Great Elder Comin’ Up

2011-12-06T15:51:00.001-08:00

A Hunting We Will Go

2011-11-29T22:11:00.001-08:00

It was time for the annual Tree Hunt. As always, we found the one and only perfect tree for us on the whole mountain. It’s always a miracle. Here’s Jay with the final result. But, before that . . .

There was some snow to plow through.

When falling is a pleasure.

Kyle’s sharp eyes spied the bunny tracks.

Meg took to her first romp in the snow like every Christmas puppy should. And when she got tired of plowing, she had this new friend to take pity on her and carry her through.

Neil’s Kentuckian friend, Caitlin, joined us for our Thanksgiving celebrating this year and made it even more fun. Meg showed her appreciation.

“And wonders of His love” is how the Christmas carol goes. The grandeur and serenity of the mountains was a wonder.

Wow. Caitlin and winter oak trees are made for each other today. Next time I’ll ask her to take off the not-so-lovely-albeit-warmer-jacket. She is holding her ‘tiny tip of a Christmas tree’ (a line from Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree, see below )– a lacy little juniper begged her to take it home with her.

“Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree” is one of our favorite reads. The illustrations are adorable too. It went out of print for years and then Kristen found it again – republished in color.

This is a charmer too. It makes you laugh and be happy about the holiday stresses of getting everything just NOT right. Thanks, Keli, for introducing this one to us.

It is best to carry one’s Christmas Tree find home on a toboggan or (in a pinch) in the back of a cherry-red pick up.

If I had known the colors would be so stunning and the lighting so soft, and if I had remembered that this was the only time we all would be together before Christmas Card time, I would have coached us on our choice of apparel and given the ‘don’t Cheese it’ lecture to our twins. Thanks for the great shot Caitlin, it was fun to be on the other side of the camera this time . We are perfectly imperfect in it.

Genna-Vee

2011-11-26T19:24:00.001-08:00

Grabbed this purdy gal on our way out from the Kennington feast.

Mug Shots for Geneology

2011-11-26T18:54:00.001-08:00

Apparently, there are a lot of blank picture places in the family group sheets. We tried to remedy that today at the Saturday Thanksgiving feast.

I know I’m missing a whole bunch, but we’re glad to have rounded up this bunch for starters. Such neato people – hope everyone loves someones like I love these someones.

Merry Thanks

2011-11-24T18:32:00.001-08:00

Kristen worried about her meringue pie sweating. I think it looks like amber beads – pie jewelry! The prettiest pie for Pie Morning.

The pie artists. I counted 17 different pies this year.

Bridgets house was full of wonderful things to see and eat.

Cheers and Blessings

The joy of goofing off.

Puppy Pleasures. Gotta love a doggie kiss.

Happy Thanksgiving 2011.

Christmas Puppy Photo Shoot

2011-11-21T13:07:00.001-08:00

I wanted to get this little puppy-girl in a Christmas setting before she wouldn’t be so puppyish. This first one is her ‘noble’ look. The others . . . not so noble-ish.


You have to work fast with puppies and props. Meg had this candy cane snapped in half in, umm, a snap. And she wouldn’t hear of wearing a hat.

The nutcracker was in peril every moment and I had to whisk him away before His Charming became His Splinters. The bow was almost swallowed. Next time, I’m going to have an assistant for sure.


Okay, I think this Meg-girl’s puppyhood is documented well enough.


She wouldn’t hear of wearing the hat until she was fast asleep

ZZZZZZzzzzz It’s so exhausting being so cute.

Boy Trio

2011-11-11T14:50:00.001-08:00

Nan’s Christmas piano recital is coming up, and this year Sam and Kyle and Mark are excited to perform their newly prepared trio. Linda and I were excited to hear how well they played together for the first time.

Our Meg is decidedly a part of us already. She has had her first bath/shower, come to enjoy her crate, escaped her boundaries of the tiled floor several times, and is trying to figure out her name is Meg and when she makes eye contact (are they grey or green ?– I can’t decide) when her name is used she’ll enjoy a miniscule puppy treat. Whew, hard work for one so young - time for another nap.

In Which Meg Joins Us

2011-11-10T09:43:00.001-08:00

Nutmeg (short for Meg) became ours last night. True to her breed (she’s a purebred border collie) she is eager to please and wants a job to do. She is a cuddle-pup too. Mark and Kyle can’t wait for her to sleep in their room. Come see her! And put your order in for when SHE has pups because they will be brilliant – just like we’re sure their mother will be.

First night behind us, and we’re all still smiling instead of yawning. Good night sleeps were had by all.

A Ring-Wraith and a Gentleman

2011-10-31T18:43:00.001-07:00

The Elementary school Halloween parade was progressing nicely – down, around and back up from the park. Scores of princesses and cowboys and little harmless monster characters were filing by. It was splendid weather - nothing chilling about the whole affair. Then . . .

A lone figure appeared atop a grassy knoll just across the street from the school. It was silent, wary. Even the horse stood still, its presence more startling because of its unflinching, unnerving control. The cloaked figure carried a broad sword, intricately and wickedly carved, close to its side.

It was my good luck that I was armed and dangerous myself. I had my trusted 50D Canon with my powerful 24-70 mm ready to shoot. And shoot I did. First at respectful distance. Then, gaining confidence, I approach the thing, winging off better and better shots. It didn’t speak, only reaching out its metal-cold hand in silent warning. Incredibly, I venture to engage in conversation. Would it know English? I would send a print of my favorite shot back to the school with our 4th grade boys. They were in Mr. Clarks class. Or perhaps he would share his mailing address – if Ring-Wraiths had such a thing? “I have a 4th grader in Mr. B’s class.” It spoke!

In reality I found him to be almost jovial, very friendly, obviously full of tender and paternal feelings, a great civic-minded citizen having appeared on other such occasions for the shivering enjoyment of many. This new exchange left me with the only conclusion I could make. Ring-wraiths have been severely misunderstood. But not today. Not here. Not on Halloween.

A Cake for Liisa

2011-10-31T14:58:00.001-07:00

We had a birthday celebration for my lovely Finland-born mother-in-law Liisa yesterday. Here’s the cake that marked the once-in-a-lifetime event (you only begin your 70th decade once in your life! She is such a young 70. Alas, I left the camera home and don’t have the portrait to prove it on my blog.)

I saw Keli use these adorable edible acorns last week and decided to imitate the best. She used a Hershey kiss for the bottom and a Nutter Butter Bites cookie for its cap. I didn’t have those so I used our Grandma Nebeker’s Ginger Crinkle Cookie recipe instead.

3/4 Cup shortening

1Cup sugar

1 egg

1/4 Cup molasses

2 Cup flour

1/2 tsp. salt, 2 tsp. soda, 1/2 tsp. ginger, 1/2 tsp. cloves, 1 tsp. cinnamon

Cream shortening and sugar. Mix in egg and molasses. Add dry ingredients. Form small balls of the dough. Roll in sugar. Flatten slightly and bake @ 350 F for approx. 12 min. Roll tiny balls for the acorn buttons.

Monticello Man

2011-10-22T19:10:00.001-07:00

I’m just a little partial to this handsome trooper. He happens to be provider and protector of our grandson and his mommy. His favorite thing is NOT posing for his camera-happy mother in law, but he is always such a good sport. And who can resist snapping pictures of a man in his uniform? Not me.

Ben and Josh Seniors

2011-10-20T16:31:00.001-07:00

Loved his black and red cowboy duds. And his Western smile.

Dark and handsome, the guy and his trumpet. A black trumpet!

Bling on the Farm

2011-10-11T18:52:00.001-07:00

Today Jay asked if I could take some pictures of the Agriculture Day held at Snow College. About 1800 FFA members from high schools across the state come together to compete in horticulture, livestock, farm machinery, soils and dairy judging.

I was surprised at all the beautiful bling that showed up in the arena.

I indulged in some critter photos too.

Some great cowboys, cowgirls and Future Farmers of America converged in lil’ ol’ Ephraim today.

What Will Become of Them?

2011-10-04T17:05:00.001-07:00

Specially selected pebbles from Log canyon have a high purpose. Mark and Kyle don’t know it yet, but they are about to do the transformation. I’ll post tomorrow with the finished creations.

Garden Produce

2011-10-04T17:01:00.001-07:00

Besides the raspberries (being the undisputed queen of the garden), I think the cosmos and zinnias and their colorful companions have been my favorite garden produce this year.

Standin’ Guard

2011-10-04T16:20:00.001-07:00

Autumn roared in last night. We were up Log Canyon viewing vistas we’d never seen before. Just in time too. After the wind and storm came through it won’t be the same until next years’ autumn. It was dark on the way home and we were treated to a lightning show. Wind and lightning put our boys on edge and this morning I found their critters had been set up for guard duty.

I turned them around so you could meet them. l-r Teddy-dog 1, Tige, Teddy-dog 2, and Coug. I am glad Kyle and Mark are not too old to still need their buddies when it’s a dark and stormy night.

T.R. IS A S.E.N.I.O.R.

2011-09-24T11:46:00.001-07:00

He plays bass and trumpet too. Such a great guy to point a camera at. It was the perfect morning to traipse around town and capture his handsome smile.

We Are Daughters . . .

2011-09-20T16:20:00.001-07:00

On Sunday I got to stand and recite the YW theme with this group of sweetness. I was their guest photographer – any reason is a good reason to mingle with this smiley, happy bunch.

Lookie how beautiful they are - inside and out.

Yay for Zion!

Kiss Bliss

2011-09-13T16:47:00.001-07:00

“Oh Mildred, his eyes are so blue you could swim in them!”

Kathrine O’Flannigan in one of my favorite books Mrs. Mike

This little guy is coming to our house to stay! We are NOT baby- proof, just baby hungry. Yum, yum, we’ll eat him up.

A Dog’s Life, and Casen is One Year Old Today

2011-09-03T22:31:00.001-07:00

The Sheep-Dog Trials were going on at Soldier Hollow, and this year we were there. I LOVED this sport/art, and could have watched and watched and watched. Amazing dogs.

Speaking of amazing dogs . . . Reggie is pretty amazing himself

I wanted to capture how joyful and smiley Reggie was being, and got this Ferocious image instead. Scary.
Little Red Riding Hood: “Reggie, what BIG teeth you have!”

Ice cream sandwiches at Anna and Kyle’s with friends and a colorful hammock topped the day off nicely.

Keep Away with Kristen.

Anna’s counting “One . . . Two . . . Three . . .” with Casen, but I’m seeing “Two . . . Four . . . Six . . .” He’s such a genius, he’ll figure it out.

This little guy is one year old today. He has managed to fill our year with wonder. Can’t wait to see the next one, and the next . . .

Gosh, that was a fun day. We missed Kyle though. He was busy keeping everybody SAP (safe as possible).

Schedule? What Schedule?

2011-08-23T21:50:00.001-07:00

Summer vacation came to a close yesterday. Kyle’s legs speak of summer adventures, not a few. Surely, this was the fastest summer on record – for me anyway. Still, it will be good to have a SCHEDULE. I’ve never really gotten the ‘schedule’ thing down, but it’s fun to dream that THIS might be the year that I do.

This image also records the chronic untied shoe lace condition we suffer from around here.

Fresh is Besh (Best)

2011-08-22T03:22:00.001-07:00

Kara was in town, Amy invited, Janene knew pasta – it was the makings for a Girls Night Out.

A year ago this gal was whooping it up in Italy, hob knobbing with the Italian restaurants and learning the ins and outs of PASTA. She taught us! Now I must put ‘Pasta Maker’ on my Wish List

A not-to-be-forgotten meal. Amy’s bread and salad, and Janene’s fresh pasta. I really will try to edit this post with recipe and instructions, it’s just that nothing was exact (yes, one of THOSE recipes) and it’s the first morning of School. But here’s what the sauce began as:

Delicious fun.

Senior-ita Mikala

2011-08-18T16:29:00.001-07:00

Sweet, beautiful and ready to begin her Senior year in HS. I couldn’t pick a favorite image of her intelligently, so I closed my eyes and pointed - and got this edgy, vivid one.

8/22/11 Here are a few more!

Sanpete Country roads and Classical music come together in Mikala. That was unique fun – a harp in the early morning light being played by an Earth-Angel.

Wow. I could just gobble her up! Today is her last day of First-Day-of-school. (ouch Mom and Dad!) Go Seniors.

Daisy Lore for a Young’un

2011-08-17T11:49:00.001-07:00

Older, wiser.

Entry for Casen’s journal: Note: Daisies are yucky for me. Kkkkkkkkkkk!

Daisies make lousy fodder – but great photography.

Anna and Kyle have a beautiful yard full of this cone flower, daisies, aspens and flowers we don’t know the names of yet.

Boy and Girl Cousins

2011-08-16T20:12:00.001-07:00

A little cousinly merriment was going on. I interfered with my camera so we can always remember this evening of ‘relative’ fun. This side of Keli’s yard was all pink and purdy; a lot of Prince and Princess role playing going on.

Bizzy is all eyes. All big, brown, beautiful eyes.

So is Kiara.

We don’t see our Washington kinfolk enough, no way.

The other side of the yard was all about strategy and targets.

I’m not sure what game this one is. It would appear to involve wings, which would make sense since his daddy-o is a pilot.

I am about to be shot in cold blood by my own nephew, Liam. The photographer must risk much to get the best images.

Owen decides how best to proceed with his turn at backyard golf.

Didn’t anyone teach him not to rough-house with things in your mouth? Whose kid is that, anyway?

Thanks Bishop Bing-Man

2011-08-15T21:59:00.001-07:00

He’s been our bishop for almost all of the twins’ life. Long enough for us to have called Bishop Bingham, Bishop Bing-man while they learned the finer points of the pronunciation of his name. He was (is) a household name (pronounced correctly now) here at our home. And many, many other homes.

We listened to him speak yesterday for the last time as our bishop. There could be much to say about this Gentleman Farmer/Teacher/Disciple/Bishop/Family Man . . . , but in keeping with my personal blog philosophy of Big pictures and Little text, I’ll condense the pages and pages of insights and notes, truths and doctrines I ate and drank under his leadership to these 5:

Don’t Pout, and don’t Doubt. He didn’t say those words, he just never did either of those things, and made me want to be like that too.

Cameron and Matt and their Dad.

Matt and Kimmie

2011-08-13T00:43:00.001-07:00

Matt and Kim – signed and sealed August 12. This might be the most tender and solemn image of the day. After that . . .

Gotta love a sister.

The accouterments of a wedding.

Brotherly love causes a little anxiety.

Most comfortable in Matt’s arms.

I love how Matt holds her bouquet like a baseball bat. (He didn’t swing.)

Tending to the details of a best man.

I think Kim’s colors brought out the fun in everybody. They are the yummiest colors, and you can’t help but smile when you see them. And jumping for joy is not too hard when you’re so joyful.

The ‘Hunny Wagon’ brought honks of approval and congratulations, and slowed traffic on Manti Main Street today.

Here are a few eye candy images of the evening.

A Cookie Demo

2011-08-12T06:58:00.001-07:00

Greys River got rained out so the party was moved to Keli’s one evening. Her famous Reflector Oven was a hit.

Getting ready to put the box over the cookies. Each briquette equals 35 degrees.

Richard’s anticipation was high. Here, he’s checking out the cookies progress through the window (she made it with an oven bag duct taped over the square hole she cut into the foil-covered box! so cool)

Sorry about this picture Mom, but had to use this one of Blaine.

Some eating, visiting, and reclining went on.

Our favorite Cristina, straight from Washington.

A Difficult Subject

2011-08-10T16:48:00.001-07:00

Oh yeah. He is so handsome and all photo-gen-ick here, but look at the tomfoolery I had to put up with to get it:

(jk!) Sure love my JK brother.

PS Way to go landing the Prof. Henry Higgins role in the Hale Center Production of My Fair Lady! Can't wait to see it.

Barry-On

2011-08-09T22:19:00.001-07:00

Due to the bouncing, bumper crop of raspberries, and the dismal results of the rest of our garden, yet another post about raspberries becomes necessary.

Yum.

Can You Do the Can-Can?

2011-08-09T21:39:00.001-07:00

This is the only group shot I could get from this unruly crew. Can you imagine the moans when “Could everybody please line up for a group picture?” is heard? I got no power here.

Now Nathan is supposed to stack five dice onto his stick.

Doing the Can-Can:

From the uncle who convinced her to apply a Cream-of-Tartar poultice on her sore knee long ago comes the annual ‘Invitation to the Dance’ spin for Anna around the floor during clean-up time.

The Aaronnese Waltz, I believe, has its roots from the Viennese Waltz, and is complete with dizzying and spectacular spins and skillful maneuvering.

However, this year, The Waltz was reduced to a mere Race. The Arts suffer.

Go Bizzy!

Spenser and Kourtney Marry Today

2011-08-09T20:45:00.001-07:00

Happy day to Spenser and Kourtney. I became so fond of them capturing these moments of their fresh, new happiness. They are a couple who will make a happy difference in the world. Congratulations! And Happy Life – you’ve got it all – health, goodness and beauty.

Black and White. So timeless, so classic.

Maybe just one color.

Family 2011

2011-08-07T22:42:00.001-07:00

It is with a twinge of trepidation that I post tonight.
I fear my family may not appreciate my playful shenanigans with my camera at the reunion. But, really guys and gals, I hold you in highest regard – you must believe that. Please do not confiscate my camera at our next one, or worse, take it over and make me be on the other side of it. Remember, it is a family’s obligation to forgive and forget. Fortunately (or unfortunately) the ‘forgetting’ part will prove very difficult now with these pictures . . . !

Kirk and Karren and Alison had us in teams competing in the most ridiculous and hilarious feats of skill. When, at the first jump of the rope, I aggravated an already pulled muscle, I turned in my jump rope for my camera. It is a thankless job, but somebody has to do it.

“Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to get the cookie from your forehead to your mouth without using hands”. Many accepted the challenge.

The raw emotion! I mean, wow.

The focus here is on Katie, but check out the silliness surrounding her!

Again, the focus is on Blaine, but I can’t take my eyes off Erin at his elbow – or Andrew paying homage to the cookie gods behind him.

You could tell the victorious ones by their arms in the air and blissful expressions.

After such effort, Rebecca is the picture of satisfaction

Sydnee shows her cookie who’s boss.

Another round had us running across the floor to the cookie table where Karren had made a delicious cookie for everyone. You had to sit in the chair, eat it as fast as you could, swallow and run back to tag the next victim, oops, um, err - team player.

It usually went like Alan’s – First you attack the cookie with great adrenaline and confidence. Then, the difficulty of the task manifests itself as your mouth gets drier and cookie gets bigger. Finally, you just get the thing down any way you can so your team will stop screaming at you to hurry up! Oh, so fun.

So glad this little guy, Camden, is with us this year. He is the newest of 6 that have joined us since Reunion 2010.

To be continued. If your picture didn't show on this post, think not that you escaped being recorded too. Tut, tut. 'Twould be a mistake. Check in tomorrow, or maybe the next day. Certainly at the Thanksgiving Family Slide Show 2011. Be there to defend or explain yourself.

Progress of a Pony

2011-08-04T16:08:00.001-07:00

Hidalgo (Dalgo) is a week old and thriving. He’s curious, and friendly and adorable. Check out that muscled chest and overly long whiskers.

Mother’s and Father’s Day

2011-07-30T21:19:00.001-07:00

Sometimes a day comes along that celebrates a Mother’s and Father’s day without prior planning or worrying. An unexpected, impromptu visit from Anna and Casen led to an unexpected, impromptu drive up the canyon. It’s been a long time since these four- Our Four! - were recorded together portrait-style.

Kyle: bright, kind, never forgets to blow me away each night with his powerful pucker-and-blow.
Neil: strong, fun, handsome, just right
Anna: beautiful inside and out
Mark: smart, sweet, love his silent sneek-up-behind ambush hugs

Someday, when you’re (all) grown up tall

And you’re no longer small

I’ll remember it all,

just thinking of you

And the way you looked tonight.

(Rewritten for my own purposes from the beautiful lyricist Dorothy Fields hit “The Way You Look Tonight” sung by Frank Sinatra, Harry Connick Jr. and others)

THAT being said, this is how 99.6% of the images got captured. Admittedly, guys and flowers don’t always feel comfortable with each other. But we had Anna which made the shoot legit.

Flowers AND hugs from girls? (even your sister) It was almost too much loveliness for our 9 year old swashbuckling heroes.

Back to the ‘real’ thing.
But I am SO happy I have a portrait of our kids; in a field of flowers, smiling, all together, at the same moment in time. It was Mothers Day.

Berried Treasure

2011-07-29T13:14:00.001-07:00

For the willing and patient there is treasure in them thar bushes.

A couple of less willing and patient treasure seekers.
My Mother used to give Keli and me a wide mouthed jar with a yarn string through a lid screwed onto the jar to tie around our waists. That way, we had both hands free to pick the rows and rows of our amazing raspberries in Central British Columbia. I think she gave us 5 cents for every quart, and they (the rows)went on and on. For two miles, uphill both ways!

The (Utah Standard) Mother Lode

I feel some fresh raspberry shortcakes and freezer jam coming on. Most of them will be flash frozen on cookie sheet trays and then bagged. Then we get to do it again in a couple of days!
I should be running an extra ? miles to balance this treat out. But I shan’t. Anyone for cake?

Sneak Peek–Family Fife

2011-07-29T05:55:00.001-07:00

The mountains are abloom, the family is together, everyone is in their navy, greys or lavenders – time to capture some of all that goodness. Enjoy this tiny slice of Fife Life. There are so many more images. So, so, so, many . . . . . many, more to come…….

Getting married TODAY!

NOT getting married today.

This was carefully, thoughtfully choreographed and orchestrated by . . . nobody.

I fell in love with these little guys.

“You Are My Sunshine – My Only Sunshine. You make me happy . . !”

Kiddos Kute

A Baby Bump – Not quite as wonderful as a Bumpy Baby, but she’ll have one of those soon! This Megan-gal is so beautiful, it would have been fun to have had a full session just with her!

Good times! Your CD should be ready in about 4 weeks, Dana. I need not tell you, but it never hurts to say it again - your family is amazing.

A Horsey Soul Joins Us

2011-07-28T13:14:00.001-07:00

Mares are not to be outguessed. I was so sure Polly would have her foal Tuesday evening. Not so. And Wednesday we had plans to be gone. At 4:00 we talked to Neil and found out that Polly was still ‘just standing there”. I thought for sure we hadn’t missed the Event. But by the time we got home a short time later . . .

The morning sun gave our first good look at his adorable horsey personage. Mark and Kyle have named him Hidalgo. Hidalgo doesn’t know it, but, as they raise him through horseyhood he will be raising them through boyhood. Such a happy arrangement.

In Which Casen Stars Again

2011-07-28T12:56:00.001-07:00

No matter the other things that may happen in a Day Trip, seeing Casen and Anna and B. Kyle tops them all.

A Day Trip

2011-07-28T12:15:00.001-07:00

Maybe the best part of hiking around Cascade Springs is getting a long drink of water at the end. Apparently, when you’re a twin you can even share water fountains.

What may be lurking under the water and bridge is as interesting as what’s growing above.

Pioneer Day Morning

2011-07-25T14:50:00.001-07:00

Running this morning was an extra treat. I was thinking about my guys back home picking raspberries, and having a pioneer breakfast together when I got home. The sun was behind a huge cloud, so as soon as I got home I grabbed my camera to have a little photo fun. Everything seemed so colorful and interesting. I temporarily abandoned my people portrait lens and made Nature my only subject.

Look who showed up for a portrait anyway! I’ve never seen such a creature before – all the look of a honey bee: size, shape and fat pockets full of pollen. But its color! My camera just couldn’t capture the glorious green. Had to be there.

And then this fuzzy guy bumbled into my sights. I’ve felt the luxury of a beaver and mink pelt, but I wonder what his would be like? (I did not try to find out)

Wonder how many wishes will come true because of this little beauty.

And how many years did it take for all this lichen to form on this fence post? And who was the cowboy who put it up? Some unanswerable questions I thunked about this morning.

The Glory of Brome trumps the Glory of Rome today.

When I got home there was a bear in the berry patch. No worries though – it was just my own Hunny Bear.

Here’s one of the Little Bears, but that’s not porridge. It’s Pioneer Pudding, a recipe we tried from the Friend magazine.

Hope this afternoon holds more of the same – blessings aplenty, good company aplenty, and beauty all around.

11:00 pm It WAS a great afternoon/evening. Here are a couple more shots of our day.

It’s fun to see Neil enjoying Little Joe again. We went up the canyon and did some horseback riding, dutch oven dining, and hiking.

Then we went back to Manti for some hob knobbing with the Olsen’s.

Summer Times

2011-07-20T22:17:00.001-07:00

This evening my guys played a little soccer just as the sun was leaving us for the night.

Goal!

A day trip to Salt Lake City began with a visit to Kennecott Copper Mine. We all were fascinated and would have liked to stay longer but more Salt Lake called.

So we waited in the hot shade for the bus…

…and watched a classic Bugs Bunny/Roadrunner episode as we were taken back to our car.

Jay and I had fun with our cameras trying out new places. Can any Salt Lakers guess the place?

I never tire of seeing what Jay captures on his. He always does something beautiful with temples.

He let me come home and play with photo shop and do this to his image. But then, I really took it over the top. (see below)

Scruffy Temple. “Scruffy” and “Temple” don’t usually fit together, but a gal must have her fun.

Jay caught this one too. Kyle (you only see a whisper of him on the left) and this beautiful fish share a moment of mutual curiosity at the Salt Lake aquarium. Thanks Kristen!

What’s More American than Apple Pie?

2011-07-13T23:24:00.001-07:00

Might I suggest this dessert on the 4th of July? Created by our lovely Anna, who hosted us for a patriotic feastie at her and B.Kyle’s home. So fun. Here are a few images of the event.

Casen’s 6, errr, 8 pack

A dog can always hope.

A story with the Unc’s.

Checking out Big Kyle’s BIG BAD BELT.

The Magic Chef.

Zzzzzzzzzzzz.

Ebbelskeevers (I just slaughtered that word, sorry) in the morning, blessed in Portuguese made our 4th of July eclectic for sure.

No matter the grey skies, there is always a bright spot somewhere on the 4th of July.

A Petite Piece o' Pageant

2011-07-11T22:53:00.000-07:00

Pageant 2011
One night I took my camera to backstage Mormon Miracle Pageant. Our family played a handcart pioneer family and had a fabulous experience. I had expected to get back the next night to shoot from some better angles and places and catch more family and friends before it got too dark, but, I'll have to wait 'till next year now.

Hope you enjoy this tiny tribute to Pageant. Thanks for the memory

Polly Wogs!

2011-07-07T16:39:00.001-07:00

The T’s have several new pets! Summer and pollywogs and boys – they belong together.

Last But Not Least

2011-07-04T17:34:00.001-07:00

Here’s a close up of the last cake created. It was for Andrew and Aubrey. The big, glorious broach in the center of the big, glorious satin bow made this cake so stunning.

Belated Post

2011-07-02T20:20:00.001-07:00

I have a few belated posts to catch up on. But this one is a biggie. Neil’s homecoming from his Brazil mission happened on May 26, 2011. Here are a few images from the airport.

Anna made it easy for Casen to break the ice meeting his missionary uncle for the first time. The card explained everything he just couldn’t put in words.

There were hugs all around. . .

It ain’t heavy – he’s my brother. Kyle finds out what a missionary carries and how heavy it is.

The other day I came home to find Neil just getting home from work. He was sweaty and grimy and he questioned my wanting a hug. I told him I didn’t care – I still can hardly believe we get to see and be with him everyday. I found sending a missionary son away for 2 years to be a Happy Heart-Ache. But I have found nothing achy about receiving him home.

Cole and Jennifer

2011-06-28T06:28:00.000-07:00

Spencer and Kourtney

2011-06-28T01:08:00.000-07:00

Spencer and Kourtney

Cole and Jennifer

2011-06-27T23:32:00.001-07:00

Sunny delight! Wasn’t that a happy morning spent among the Temple daisies? Thanks for such a fun engagement shoot.

Spencer and Kourtney

2011-06-27T23:22:00.001-07:00

Wow, that was fun Spencer and Kourtney. You are a picture perfect couple to photograph. How did it feel to exhaust yourselves smiling for the camera just before the Mormon Miracle Pageant? Can’t wait for you to see the other images – a whole bunch just as beautiful as this one.

Guess Who’s Getting Married?

2011-06-26T08:26:00.001-07:00

Check my blog tomorrow to see.

Guess Who Else Is Getting Married?

2011-06-26T08:22:00.001-07:00

Check my blog tomorrow to see!

Fit for a King (Wedding Post #3)

2011-06-21T21:51:00.001-07:00

‘Cause She’s the First

2011-06-21T21:35:00.001-07:00

So why would I be blogging a little dog I’ve never seen before and probably won’t again? Because she’s the first creature that came my way with expression and life to be captured by my New Dream Lens (a Canon 24-70mm f2.8). Yay for future fun and beauty and creativity.

A Morning to Remember

2011-05-24T22:23:00.001-07:00

What’s a bridesmaid for if not to cheer her lady’s happiness?

The temple was stunning that morning, as always.

Father of the bride duties are numerous and varied.

Where Bubbles Abound (and a sweet story)

2011-05-24T21:51:00.001-07:00

First to post of the big wedding day I choose . . . this one – the last one. The Off-To-Begin-Life-Together-After-A-Long-Wonderful-Day-Of-Celebrating one.

And the sweet story is: Aubrey told us at the wedding luncheon that she has been secretly, hopefully practicing handwriting “Aubrey Erickson” on slips of paper since she was 14. Now she doesn’t have to throw them away. Isn’t that a sweet story?

We are waiting for the couple to run through our bubbles.

Not to waste bubbles, Heather takes a practice run through them.

Finally!

Comin’ Home

2011-05-10T09:01:00.001-07:00

Actually, the beloved spiritual song’s title is “Goin’ Home”. But this Largo – Theme from the New World (Dvorak) is even sweeter sung this way because Elder Neil Olsen is Comin’ Home.
On May 26. Speaking in Sacrament meeting on Sunday May 29th, 12:00 NOON. Dinner at our house afterwards where much hugging, laughing, talking, getting reacquainted and scrumptious shenanigans (as my friend Becky would say) is expected.
Please feel very invited to join us! That would make us happier still if you were here.

16 more days. Mark’s onto that – he’s (we’re) counting days now. Originally, I wasn’t going to get the missionary countdown chart. I thought it would make the days drag. And I wanted them to FLY! But when his 1 year came ‘round, I suddenly had an urge to mark 365 days off all at once. (This proved to be very therapeutic and satisfying)

Soon, we will hear first hand from Elder Neil the stories behind the pictures.

Aubrey Bridal – In the Beginning . . .

2011-05-08T05:30:00.001-07:00

Aubrey and Andrew – Post 1
Okay mirror mirror on the wall , who’s the fairest . . . ?
I maintain that the fairest bride in the land is the one who is getting her portrait at the moment. So, that would be Aubrey.
The finished image looks so simple you just can’t imagine all the tweaking, arranging, tucking, hiding, pillow propping, laughing and spot removing that can (and did) go on for some of the formal portraits we got yesterday.

Full color

A touch of vintage.

Pink texture

Vintage pink

Black and white.

May 10, 2011

Post #2

Here are more glorious images of Aubrey and Andrew.

Whew! Andrew is even more handsome than that amazing watch.

A sunburn isn’t so obvious in black and white.

Dimples deep enough to get lost in. (I think Aubrey did – quite a while ago)

Aubrey, your hazel green eyes are a gift.

We never did get to the gazebo, did we?. No matter, I like it as a reflection even better.

So glad you brought the umbrella prop. Pop! Wow!

The BYU Alumni House is the only place I’ve seen a ‘tulip bush’. Aubrey far outshines everything she’s placed in front of!

Photo tip: Bring someone else fun with you on a photo shoot – they might have just the right ideas. Like sticking tulips into an otherwise plain bush. Love the subtle color. Thanks Keli.

She’s so elegant, sweet, pensive, funny – all rolled into a lovely package. Maybe this is one of my favorites. Or maybe . . .

This one. I don’t know. You can decide!

Mothers’ Secret Horse Racing Life

2011-05-07T23:06:00.001-07:00

Kentucky Derby Post - Part 1
I grew up with her. Knew she liked horses. She told me about her dads special team (back when a man depended on his horses like a close friend). I even think I remember hearing she had attended Wyoming Downs. I dismissed that bit of information with a careless toss. Horse racing? Mom? No way.

Then, a year ago I happened to be with her and Keli visiting the Vancouver, WA part of our family. With all our touring and visiting that day of the 136th run of the Kentucky Derby, Richard somehow knew that we had to be back at 3:00 so she could call Aaron. Aaron, we soon were to find out, shared our mothers interest in this very exclusive and illustrious sport seeped in tradition and pomp. Keli and I shared surprised and incredulous glances as we were listening party to a one-sided conversation about the finer points of horse racing. Our soft-spoken mother, it seems, is a soft-spoken horse racing fan too.

I’ve been wanting a portrait of our mother/horse racing fan for some time now. Today I got it! Happy Mothers Day to you! It was so fun to experience Kentucky Derby 137 with you and Aaron today! “Pants on Fire” and Rosie were great picks even though “Animal Kingdom” bested them all. There’s always next year. And next year – we’ll wear our hats.

Hey my 9 brothers and sisters, you'll be getting your own prints of these (I only posted one) in your mailbox soon. Happy un-birthday. Kathi, the flowers in Mom's portrait are the ones you sent her. Beautiful!

Bubble Fun

2011-05-05T21:35:00.001-07:00

A playtime with Shannon and Morgan where we blew bubbles and threw grass and smiled for Aunt Lauri. They are so pink and purttie.

Heber City Girls Night Out

2011-05-01T15:36:00.001-07:00

We filed into Gennas adorable apartment for a charming tour of it, dinner, yummy conversation and a demo on gift towel construction by Anna. Heber was fine! Very fine.

Casen’s sweet potatoes began taking on a Fred Flintstone 5 o’clock shadow appearance.

I forgot pictures of the tour and demo! Sometimes(no, a lot of times) I just want to be in the moments and experiencing the moments without trying to record them. Some fun.

Erin and Tyson

2011-04-26T21:29:00.001-07:00

So Soft.

So Tender.

So Jubilant!

So Dapper.

So ? (it’s late - I can’t think what this one is so _____, please help. My fuzzy brain would be ever so grateful.)

So Yin Yang. So Black White. So classic. So wonderful. I love this couple.

Farewell Breakfast

2011-04-26T10:55:00.001-07:00

Thank you Angela, Caitlan, Chantel, and Allie for one “final” impromptu temple breakfast this morning before finals and flying away. Ow-wee, my heart hurts, but not as much as your Bishop’s. Your visit represents the close of a sweet, unique time. It went so fast. Thank you for sharing it with us.

Good luck. Shine on. Be brilliant.

Glorious

2011-04-22T13:10:00.001-07:00

A glorious day for celebrating the Spring wedding of Erin and Tyson. Wow! She’s so beautiful – he’s so handsome.

Of Marbles and Men

2011-04-20T18:57:00.001-07:00

We had a Family Home Evening where marbles took the center stage. In cub scouts that afternoon I had taught our cubs about the almost forgotten game of marbles. For FHE Kyle taught us all about it again. Lucky for us Anna AND Grandpa were visiting!

Marbles! They’re so pretty. Like tiny pieces of art. Hatches gave us this beautiful set of Solitary. It’s quite habit-forming.

Grandpa added to the fun with his skill and knowledge. We learned words like “scootch”, and '”knuckling down” and playing for “keepsies”.

There were smiles all around.

I think he’s laughing because he beat us all.

A Sunday Walk With Grandpa

2011-04-18T09:13:00.001-07:00

I am still wrapping my mind around the idea that I’m married to someone’s Grandpa. Love it! Just still amazed that we have arrived at this stage so quickly. How does it happen? and glad that it does.

Loved Ones Visit

2011-04-17T17:06:00.001-07:00

Our favorite girl-child playing with her favorite boy-child on a chilly Sunday afternoon.

Upside down works too.

Monster PEEPS

2011-04-12T15:29:00.001-07:00

Jay introduced our children to the delights of Monster PEEPS long ago. It must have been a rite of passage while he was growing up. Instructions are pretty simple: Every April, buy a box of your choice of Peeps (purple, pink etc. We tend to go with the classic/traditional yellow, because we are a classic/traditional family. But not yellow.) I do wonder if yellow doesn’t have a more mellow flavor . . . ?

Then, microwave and watch the hilarious contortions the little chick makes. This is especially funny if you’re an eight year old cub scout, or a cub scout leader/mother deprived of her 7- 8 hours sleep. (yawn)

One chick has obviously already had a run in with aforementioned cub scout.

The final bow.

The best part.

Wouldn't it be fun to visit the Peeps factory? I wonder if they give tours.

Eye Candy

2011-04-12T10:38:00.001-07:00

Two main missions in my life are to: 1) Feed my Twinner Boys and 2) photographically record these dear blue eyes. #1 is going alright thanks to great exemplary cook examples, and here’s the latest of #2.

Here, look closer. Sacred as a Church’s stained glass window, yummy as a blueberry Jolly Ranchers candy. And look! There’s my silhouette smack dab in the center! I love photography - it's so . . . full of suprises.