Hey everyone!!!! I haven't written for a while, but I have now set up an account for YouTube. Right now I have posted 4 movies. Strange Wanderer, Strange Wanderer Remake, Strange Quest Preview, and Rosey, I have finally posted you music video. If you type in Strange wanderer, all the movies should come up, if not just put in max or richard and it should come up. Feel free to watch them. I would love to get feed back on them too!!
HOPE YOU GUYS ENJOY THE SHOWS!!!!!!
Max
P.S. I will be posting some more movies in a little while! Can't wait!!!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
A request...
I love the advice I get from all of you. Stake Conference is coming up, and I would love any thoughts, or stories, or scriptures which you love which would touch on these two topics.
1) Listening to the word of Christ. - He who has ears to hear, let him hear. I want to emphasize that when the Lord speaks he speaks in still small voice, but that what he says should have a powerful, life changing affect on us. Don't make him have to hit us over the head before we listen to him.
2) Keep your eye to the Glory of God. This is about how when you have a spiritual testimony born in your heart, that things of the world, just don't look important anymore. That when you see the glory of god (his work, his creations, his plan in action, etc) that you don't see what's so great about the world...and you want to seek after his Glory above all else. Nothing else satisfies.
So if you have any thoughts - please leave a comment, or call, or email me, or whatever. Love you all.
1) Listening to the word of Christ. - He who has ears to hear, let him hear. I want to emphasize that when the Lord speaks he speaks in still small voice, but that what he says should have a powerful, life changing affect on us. Don't make him have to hit us over the head before we listen to him.
2) Keep your eye to the Glory of God. This is about how when you have a spiritual testimony born in your heart, that things of the world, just don't look important anymore. That when you see the glory of god (his work, his creations, his plan in action, etc) that you don't see what's so great about the world...and you want to seek after his Glory above all else. Nothing else satisfies.
So if you have any thoughts - please leave a comment, or call, or email me, or whatever. Love you all.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Smart Cookie Adventures
Happy Anniversary Blaine and Kris. I got done with work on V-Day around 8, and remembered it was your Anniversary. I was going to call, but decided to let you guy's have your own evening together. Anyway, sorry it is so late.
Here is my BAWB/Bark letter. I know you all already got this, but I wanted it to go in our family record too.
I have been getting complaints that I don't write often enough. I'll be honest, the main reason why I don't write often is my life is rather predictable. I go to work and make cookies, come home have dinner and maybe watch a movie, go to bed, and then the whole process starts over again. Occasionally I'll go on a date, but there haven't been any developments in that area of my life so I haven't felt a need to write. But, this past week has been crazy and one I will never forget! Have you ever felt like you were in a movie? Last Wednesday night I felt as though I could have been on a Hollywood set, but I wasn't, I was just at my little work in American Fork. Let me start by saying that this has been the craziest week of work in my life. I am just sure I have made over 3000 heart shaped sugar cookies in the past week. I knew that Wed. (the day before Valentines) and Thursday (Valentines Day) were going to be busy and very long days. On Wed., I got to work about 7 am and started working my little heart out. The weather was beautiful as I started my busy morning, but I knew there was a winter storm warning, so I was expecting a little snow to come our way. I didn't really think anything of it because we have had so many storms lately. Later in the afternoon around 4, when I was starting to get worn out, the storm came in. Looking out our windows we could see snow and wind, but it seemed like a pretty typical storm. I still wasn't worried because had hours ahead of me finishing up cookie orders and get everything ready for the next day, that I figured the storm would pass and I would be able to make the usual 35 min. drive home. As the night went on, we started getting phone calls with people canceling their orders because of the crazy weather. The other baker I was working with, Quinn (girl), lives in Alpine, only 15 min. away. She started getting phone calls from her family saying that it was taking hour's to get anywhere. We started hearing from customers all these crazy stories about children being stuck at school and on buses. As the night went on, we heard stories that people were stuck in traffic for hours and hours and that roads were starting to close. By about 7 that night (yes, I am still at work) Quinn told me that I could just sleep at her house. I took her up on the offer and she called her Dad to come pick us up. We knew we were still going to be there for a few more hours, but he said it would take him 2 hours just to come pick us up, so he jumped in his car and started coming to get us. Quinn and I talked it through and decided that it would be dumb to have him get us because it would take a few hours to get home, and then we would just have to turn around and come back because we needed to be there by about 6 the next morning. So, after only 20 min. Quinn called and told her Dad to go back home because we were just going to sleep in the store. So, we kept working and working. The weird thing was, business didn't really seem slow. The storm didn't seem bad at all where we were, people just kept coming in. I almost felt like everyone was lying to me because we didn't have a TV so I couldn't actually see what was happening, and the weather wasn't that bad at all where we were. Quinn and I worked until about 11 that night, and then decided to go to Walmart (across the parking lot) to get some of the "essentials." So, the whole "feeling like I was in a movie" portion of the story happened as we drove across the parking lot to Walmart. Nothing seemed wrong, but it felt like the world was coming to an end. I felt like we should be the heroines of the story who drive into the storm to save all those kids stuck in school...but instead we bought a toothbrushes, new matching sweat pants, pillows, blankets, deoderant, and food. As we walked around Walmart, we heard someone say over the intercom "if you are staying with us for the night, we will be showing a movie in the [whatever] corner of the store." This again confirmed to me that although I couldn't see this crazy storm, it was going on somewhere, and having a very real, and scary effect on people not very far away. We drove back to Smart Cookie, and set up camp for the night. Quinn had a queen size air mattress in her car, so at least we had something to sleep on. I moped the floor so our blow up mat would be on a clean floor it is now 12:30 am. While I moped, Quinn called her parents to see how they were doing, and her Dad (after 4 hours) was still stuck in traffic and couldn't even make it home because their exit was blocked by a school bus, not allowing anyone to get off the freeway (her house was right in the middle of the storm.) We couldn't decide where to sleep because we didn't want to sleep in the back (in the kitchen) where it would be safest, because we had just spent the last 16 hours there. We didn't want to sleep in front because there were a whole bunch of windows and we wanted to be safe. So, we slept between three different freezers which went on and off all night. Every hour we would both wake up because the air mattress needed to be blown up. At one point in the night we put on our winter coats so we wouldn't freeze to death. I have never wanted it to be morning, but in this case I could hardly wait to get up and make another million cookies.Six o'clock finally came and we got up and got going on our busy, busy day! It was way busier that we would have imagained and we weren't prepared. It ended up being a very emotional and long day. I was grateful when it was finally over. Quinn and I think back on that day and don't know how we worked so quickly when we were so tired. Throughout our Valentines day, we recognized so many tender mercies. Quinn and I were wearing thin but Heavenly Father helped us make it through the day!Well, other than that I gave a talk today in the Spanish branch of our stake. It was a very interesting and great experience. Earlier in the week, I turned in my application for the Dietetics program. I am still not sure if I am going to do Dietetics or Speech pathology, but I figured I needed to at least apply to the program.I love you all! Until my next letter, just know that my life is "predictable."Love, Janey
Here is my BAWB/Bark letter. I know you all already got this, but I wanted it to go in our family record too.
I have been getting complaints that I don't write often enough. I'll be honest, the main reason why I don't write often is my life is rather predictable. I go to work and make cookies, come home have dinner and maybe watch a movie, go to bed, and then the whole process starts over again. Occasionally I'll go on a date, but there haven't been any developments in that area of my life so I haven't felt a need to write. But, this past week has been crazy and one I will never forget! Have you ever felt like you were in a movie? Last Wednesday night I felt as though I could have been on a Hollywood set, but I wasn't, I was just at my little work in American Fork. Let me start by saying that this has been the craziest week of work in my life. I am just sure I have made over 3000 heart shaped sugar cookies in the past week. I knew that Wed. (the day before Valentines) and Thursday (Valentines Day) were going to be busy and very long days. On Wed., I got to work about 7 am and started working my little heart out. The weather was beautiful as I started my busy morning, but I knew there was a winter storm warning, so I was expecting a little snow to come our way. I didn't really think anything of it because we have had so many storms lately. Later in the afternoon around 4, when I was starting to get worn out, the storm came in. Looking out our windows we could see snow and wind, but it seemed like a pretty typical storm. I still wasn't worried because had hours ahead of me finishing up cookie orders and get everything ready for the next day, that I figured the storm would pass and I would be able to make the usual 35 min. drive home. As the night went on, we started getting phone calls with people canceling their orders because of the crazy weather. The other baker I was working with, Quinn (girl), lives in Alpine, only 15 min. away. She started getting phone calls from her family saying that it was taking hour's to get anywhere. We started hearing from customers all these crazy stories about children being stuck at school and on buses. As the night went on, we heard stories that people were stuck in traffic for hours and hours and that roads were starting to close. By about 7 that night (yes, I am still at work) Quinn told me that I could just sleep at her house. I took her up on the offer and she called her Dad to come pick us up. We knew we were still going to be there for a few more hours, but he said it would take him 2 hours just to come pick us up, so he jumped in his car and started coming to get us. Quinn and I talked it through and decided that it would be dumb to have him get us because it would take a few hours to get home, and then we would just have to turn around and come back because we needed to be there by about 6 the next morning. So, after only 20 min. Quinn called and told her Dad to go back home because we were just going to sleep in the store. So, we kept working and working. The weird thing was, business didn't really seem slow. The storm didn't seem bad at all where we were, people just kept coming in. I almost felt like everyone was lying to me because we didn't have a TV so I couldn't actually see what was happening, and the weather wasn't that bad at all where we were. Quinn and I worked until about 11 that night, and then decided to go to Walmart (across the parking lot) to get some of the "essentials." So, the whole "feeling like I was in a movie" portion of the story happened as we drove across the parking lot to Walmart. Nothing seemed wrong, but it felt like the world was coming to an end. I felt like we should be the heroines of the story who drive into the storm to save all those kids stuck in school...but instead we bought a toothbrushes, new matching sweat pants, pillows, blankets, deoderant, and food. As we walked around Walmart, we heard someone say over the intercom "if you are staying with us for the night, we will be showing a movie in the [whatever] corner of the store." This again confirmed to me that although I couldn't see this crazy storm, it was going on somewhere, and having a very real, and scary effect on people not very far away. We drove back to Smart Cookie, and set up camp for the night. Quinn had a queen size air mattress in her car, so at least we had something to sleep on. I moped the floor so our blow up mat would be on a clean floor it is now 12:30 am. While I moped, Quinn called her parents to see how they were doing, and her Dad (after 4 hours) was still stuck in traffic and couldn't even make it home because their exit was blocked by a school bus, not allowing anyone to get off the freeway (her house was right in the middle of the storm.) We couldn't decide where to sleep because we didn't want to sleep in the back (in the kitchen) where it would be safest, because we had just spent the last 16 hours there. We didn't want to sleep in front because there were a whole bunch of windows and we wanted to be safe. So, we slept between three different freezers which went on and off all night. Every hour we would both wake up because the air mattress needed to be blown up. At one point in the night we put on our winter coats so we wouldn't freeze to death. I have never wanted it to be morning, but in this case I could hardly wait to get up and make another million cookies.Six o'clock finally came and we got up and got going on our busy, busy day! It was way busier that we would have imagained and we weren't prepared. It ended up being a very emotional and long day. I was grateful when it was finally over. Quinn and I think back on that day and don't know how we worked so quickly when we were so tired. Throughout our Valentines day, we recognized so many tender mercies. Quinn and I were wearing thin but Heavenly Father helped us make it through the day!Well, other than that I gave a talk today in the Spanish branch of our stake. It was a very interesting and great experience. Earlier in the week, I turned in my application for the Dietetics program. I am still not sure if I am going to do Dietetics or Speech pathology, but I figured I needed to at least apply to the program.I love you all! Until my next letter, just know that my life is "predictable."Love, Janey
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Government Warning - Don't swallow your bubblegum...
This is what will happen! Just say no to swallowing your bubblegum!
If you Think You're in Love Now. . . .
Thank you, Bret, for your very kind Valentines Day tribute. (Don't worry family, I totally thanked him in person on Valentines Day!) Now I want to share my thoughts about dad.
Grandpa Winder used to always say something in his wedding "talk" before performing temple ceremonies that went like this: "If you think you love him/her now, just wait until you get a little milage on it. It just gets better and better." I keep thinking about that as far as dad is concerned. Oh yes, I was soooo in love with dad when we met and while I wrote to him on his mission. And by the time we had known each other three and a half years and knelt at the alter, I thought that I was pretty much in love as I could be. But grandpa was right, it has just gotten better and better. Time has magnified that love. So in "dad style," here is the short list of what I love about dad.
I love dad because he is great to talk to. While dating, our favorite thing to do was just talk and talk. We could talk until the buildings closed at BYU or until he got kicked out of Heritage Halls. Even before his mission, dad knew the gospel better than anyone I had known. I could tell he took it all very seriously, too, and that his thoughts were deep about important things. But he could also talk about lots of other things, too. And he didn't take himself too seriously so that was good, too.
Dad has always been a great leader. Our first encounter was on the telephone our freshmen year when he, as a counselor in the Sunday School presidency, asked me to give a talk in Sunday School opening exercises. (Yes, this was in the old days when SS had an opening time.) It wasn't until after my talk that he called me back to finally ask me out. But the point was, he was given a leadership position as long as I have known him. He sat up on the stand every Sunday our freshman year and he was very pleasant to look at! I still love looking up and seeing dad on the stand!
Dad is unselfish and kind. From the beginning I knew he was looking out for my needs. I mean think about it, do you really think dad wanted to stay in what was considered a "starter home?" But dad knew how much it meant to me to be close to family, and he loved the family, too, and so here we stay. He even commuted two hours a day for many years, while being bishop, just to keep us all in Salt Lake. He also commuted to Portland, just so as not to disrupt all of our family as he pursued his career. He always thinks of me and us before himself.
Dad is patient and wise. I think over the years of the many times that a challenge has come up that seems overwhelming to me and, when I discuss it with dad, he is able to help me put it into perspective. He has a calming effect on me. I trust his judgement and advice. He is a good listener and a good thinker and he helps me to see things in the proper light.
Dad is good at not judging others and respecting other opinions. And he is always so kind to respect my opinion and my way of doing things. Many times he has sacrificed his way to let me do things my way.
Dad has a great sense of humor. He loves to laugh. Sometimes different things will strike us funny but I love to hear dad throw his head back and laugh and laugh. He is happy and pleasant.
While I seem to resist change, dad is open to new ideas and learning new things. He helps me move forward in life through that example. I think we were the first one on the block to have a computer and a printer. And years later, I still look to dad to figure it all out. Granted I may resist some of these changes, but in the end I realize that he is right and I love him for it.
Funny as this one sounds, dad is quick at "shifting gears." I learned this as he was bishop and would have the weight of the world, or just the ward, on his shoulders, and he could come home and put it all aside and jump right in to whatever we were doing as a family and have a fun time. Even now he can get off the phone, heave a big sigh about whatever problem he just heard, and get right back into the movie or game or whatever. That quality amazes me!
You all know that dad is a hard worker, too. And not just at work, but at whatever he is doing. He is so good at sticking with a task until he figures it out. He has always been a wonderful provider for our family. When he lost his job at CBI soon after Blaine was born, he didn't sit around just hoping for another, he took a rather unexciting job at a pharmaceutical company until he could find something better. The family proclamation says that fathers are to provide the necessities of life and protection for their family and dad is great at doing that!
I know the best decision I have made in this life was to marry dad. Our love and trust for each other goes deep. We are both human enough that all of you kids have seen that we have our differences. But I hope you all know, too, that there is no one on the earth that I love and respect more than dad. He is my rock. And the only reason that I get upset with him eating too much ice cream or steak is that I really want him on this earth as long as I am around! I, too, am thankful Heavenly Father let us find each other. I'm so thankful that we are united eternally because of our temple covenants. I love you, hon, more than words can say. And kids, you really ought to know that!!
Love, Wendy/mom!
Grandpa Winder used to always say something in his wedding "talk" before performing temple ceremonies that went like this: "If you think you love him/her now, just wait until you get a little milage on it. It just gets better and better." I keep thinking about that as far as dad is concerned. Oh yes, I was soooo in love with dad when we met and while I wrote to him on his mission. And by the time we had known each other three and a half years and knelt at the alter, I thought that I was pretty much in love as I could be. But grandpa was right, it has just gotten better and better. Time has magnified that love. So in "dad style," here is the short list of what I love about dad.
I love dad because he is great to talk to. While dating, our favorite thing to do was just talk and talk. We could talk until the buildings closed at BYU or until he got kicked out of Heritage Halls. Even before his mission, dad knew the gospel better than anyone I had known. I could tell he took it all very seriously, too, and that his thoughts were deep about important things. But he could also talk about lots of other things, too. And he didn't take himself too seriously so that was good, too.
Dad has always been a great leader. Our first encounter was on the telephone our freshmen year when he, as a counselor in the Sunday School presidency, asked me to give a talk in Sunday School opening exercises. (Yes, this was in the old days when SS had an opening time.) It wasn't until after my talk that he called me back to finally ask me out. But the point was, he was given a leadership position as long as I have known him. He sat up on the stand every Sunday our freshman year and he was very pleasant to look at! I still love looking up and seeing dad on the stand!
Dad is unselfish and kind. From the beginning I knew he was looking out for my needs. I mean think about it, do you really think dad wanted to stay in what was considered a "starter home?" But dad knew how much it meant to me to be close to family, and he loved the family, too, and so here we stay. He even commuted two hours a day for many years, while being bishop, just to keep us all in Salt Lake. He also commuted to Portland, just so as not to disrupt all of our family as he pursued his career. He always thinks of me and us before himself.
Dad is patient and wise. I think over the years of the many times that a challenge has come up that seems overwhelming to me and, when I discuss it with dad, he is able to help me put it into perspective. He has a calming effect on me. I trust his judgement and advice. He is a good listener and a good thinker and he helps me to see things in the proper light.
Dad is good at not judging others and respecting other opinions. And he is always so kind to respect my opinion and my way of doing things. Many times he has sacrificed his way to let me do things my way.
Dad has a great sense of humor. He loves to laugh. Sometimes different things will strike us funny but I love to hear dad throw his head back and laugh and laugh. He is happy and pleasant.
While I seem to resist change, dad is open to new ideas and learning new things. He helps me move forward in life through that example. I think we were the first one on the block to have a computer and a printer. And years later, I still look to dad to figure it all out. Granted I may resist some of these changes, but in the end I realize that he is right and I love him for it.
Funny as this one sounds, dad is quick at "shifting gears." I learned this as he was bishop and would have the weight of the world, or just the ward, on his shoulders, and he could come home and put it all aside and jump right in to whatever we were doing as a family and have a fun time. Even now he can get off the phone, heave a big sigh about whatever problem he just heard, and get right back into the movie or game or whatever. That quality amazes me!
You all know that dad is a hard worker, too. And not just at work, but at whatever he is doing. He is so good at sticking with a task until he figures it out. He has always been a wonderful provider for our family. When he lost his job at CBI soon after Blaine was born, he didn't sit around just hoping for another, he took a rather unexciting job at a pharmaceutical company until he could find something better. The family proclamation says that fathers are to provide the necessities of life and protection for their family and dad is great at doing that!
I know the best decision I have made in this life was to marry dad. Our love and trust for each other goes deep. We are both human enough that all of you kids have seen that we have our differences. But I hope you all know, too, that there is no one on the earth that I love and respect more than dad. He is my rock. And the only reason that I get upset with him eating too much ice cream or steak is that I really want him on this earth as long as I am around! I, too, am thankful Heavenly Father let us find each other. I'm so thankful that we are united eternally because of our temple covenants. I love you, hon, more than words can say. And kids, you really ought to know that!!
Love, Wendy/mom!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Life back in Provo
Hi Family,
I am sitting here on the bus riding to school on Valentines day. There is a fresh (cold) layer of snow on the ground outside but it all looks beautiful as I ride in the warm bus. Thanks dogger for convincing me that the bus isn’t too bad…I really enjoy it. In fact, this part of my day is often one of the highlights as me and 2-3 other guys--all up and coming lawyers, accountants etc—discuss important current events. We discuss anything from the faulting economy, to the election, to whatever may need discussing at 7:30 in the morning. Today none of my friends are on the bus so I thought I would take a minute to write and say hi.
Stef and I are both busy as can be between work and school. All of my classes are from 8-11 mon through Thursday with a religion class on Wednesday nights. Right after school, I walk from the Tanner building to the MTC (a 20 minute walk) and work until 3:00 in the bookstore. Then, I walk back to campus, and do homework until I catch the bus home, or Stef comes and picks me up. Once a week or so I have a b-ball game, and Stef and I always make sure and have FHE, and some form of a date night. Life sped up quick after an enjoyable internship down in Dallas.
I haven’t written for a while because I just finished my first ‘wave’ of tests. I have been studying every spare second I have had trying to keep up and do well. I must be a little shabby in my academic skills, because all of my best efforts didn’t seem to quite cut it. I am not discouraged about it, only driven to be better. Blaine and I have talked before about natural talents. We were talking about my natural ability to run, and his natural ability to take standardized (or any form of) tests. Somehow I think Blaine’s talent will get him a little bit “farther” than my good legs. I wish I were a good test taker but I struggle with it.
Stef is starting to show a little bit with the baby in her. We still can’t seem to come up with the name we both feel like is the right name but we have lots of fun talks about it. She is doing well in school and we are both so excited for her to graduate. (She is going to walk and anyone who is interested is invited to come cheer her on). She works hard keeping the house clean, and doing all that she does while working part time at the MTC. She just loves her missionaries and they all seem to really love her. They will come into the Bookstore sometimes and tell me that they are Stef’s missionaries. She teaches mostly Asians who are learning English. She always comes home with lots of fun stories about their interpretation/understanding of things. One of our favorite stories deals with her being pregnant. After Stef and I found out that we are having a little boy, word made it around to most people but she was the one to tell her class. When this group of Asian Elders found out it was a boy, they all cheered out (in a thick Asian accent) OOOhhhhh…PRIESTHOOD!!!! These good elders were so thrilled that we were having a boy who would someday hold the priesthood. We thought it was so fun that that is what they would think of when they first heard it was a boy.
So, we press on. We are grateful to be close to our families again but we miss Powell’s in Dallas, and Blaine, Kristi, Gwen and Ben in Austin. Sure love all of you!
I am sitting here on the bus riding to school on Valentines day. There is a fresh (cold) layer of snow on the ground outside but it all looks beautiful as I ride in the warm bus. Thanks dogger for convincing me that the bus isn’t too bad…I really enjoy it. In fact, this part of my day is often one of the highlights as me and 2-3 other guys--all up and coming lawyers, accountants etc—discuss important current events. We discuss anything from the faulting economy, to the election, to whatever may need discussing at 7:30 in the morning. Today none of my friends are on the bus so I thought I would take a minute to write and say hi.
Stef and I are both busy as can be between work and school. All of my classes are from 8-11 mon through Thursday with a religion class on Wednesday nights. Right after school, I walk from the Tanner building to the MTC (a 20 minute walk) and work until 3:00 in the bookstore. Then, I walk back to campus, and do homework until I catch the bus home, or Stef comes and picks me up. Once a week or so I have a b-ball game, and Stef and I always make sure and have FHE, and some form of a date night. Life sped up quick after an enjoyable internship down in Dallas.
I haven’t written for a while because I just finished my first ‘wave’ of tests. I have been studying every spare second I have had trying to keep up and do well. I must be a little shabby in my academic skills, because all of my best efforts didn’t seem to quite cut it. I am not discouraged about it, only driven to be better. Blaine and I have talked before about natural talents. We were talking about my natural ability to run, and his natural ability to take standardized (or any form of) tests. Somehow I think Blaine’s talent will get him a little bit “farther” than my good legs. I wish I were a good test taker but I struggle with it.
Stef is starting to show a little bit with the baby in her. We still can’t seem to come up with the name we both feel like is the right name but we have lots of fun talks about it. She is doing well in school and we are both so excited for her to graduate. (She is going to walk and anyone who is interested is invited to come cheer her on). She works hard keeping the house clean, and doing all that she does while working part time at the MTC. She just loves her missionaries and they all seem to really love her. They will come into the Bookstore sometimes and tell me that they are Stef’s missionaries. She teaches mostly Asians who are learning English. She always comes home with lots of fun stories about their interpretation/understanding of things. One of our favorite stories deals with her being pregnant. After Stef and I found out that we are having a little boy, word made it around to most people but she was the one to tell her class. When this group of Asian Elders found out it was a boy, they all cheered out (in a thick Asian accent) OOOhhhhh…PRIESTHOOD!!!! These good elders were so thrilled that we were having a boy who would someday hold the priesthood. We thought it was so fun that that is what they would think of when they first heard it was a boy.
So, we press on. We are grateful to be close to our families again but we miss Powell’s in Dallas, and Blaine, Kristi, Gwen and Ben in Austin. Sure love all of you!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
The best thing a father can do for his kids...
No...it's not take them on a cruise. That's the second best thing a father can do for his kids. The first thing he can do is show them how much he loves their mother. And so let me take the opportunity on this Valentine's day to tell your mother - my sweetheart - why I love her so much.
You're beautiful. You still turn my head after all these years.
You made sacred covenants with me so many years ago, and you've kept those faithful!
You help me when I have problems without judging me
You trust me that I'm doing the right thing - which motivates me everyday
You are kind and gentle
You are loved by all who know you, and I'm the beneficiary of your good friends
You set an example of righteous living to me everyday. You want more than anything to do right...to please Heavenly Father. So you makes demands on yourself which I could never keep up with, but which you seems to do with consistency and with seeming ease...
- You keep your journal so we can recall our family and our lives
- You faithfully read the church magazines and church magazines
- You do regular service for all around you
- You read the Book of Mormon every year (if not more often)
- You keep up on studying your SS lesson - even though you can't attend from Nursery
- You go out running every day (even if it's on Nancy's treadmill)
- You cope with me and all my weaknesses.
- You selflessly give to all of us of your time, talents, etc... even working til late with Max on his science project, or cleaning up at GMa Bassett
I love you because we are connected to each other through thick and thin and eternity
I love you my love because Heavenly Father gave you to me (or me to you - I'm not sure), and I feel humbled and grateful that he would give me such a wonderful gift as you, and I hope I never take you for granted.
Okay - kids you can stop gagging now. And stop complaining, you know you love it.
Have a sweet day!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
We did not doubt, our mothers knew it
Janey is one busy gal. She goes to work early, and doesn't come home till 8 or 9. This week she is particularly busy as she's got a billion cookie orders to fill for valentine's day - and she's speaking in Church on Sunday with our high council. So wish her luck, as I'm not sure when she'll have time to prepare.
As a sidenote, she is going to speak in the lighthouse branch which should be fun as that is our hispanic branch and Janey doesn't speaka da espanol. We had our ward conference with them last week so anyone who doesn't speak both English and Spanish gets a headset. And when the Spanish people speak, the translater translates to English. When the English people speak, the translater translates to Spanish. When Pres. Nielsen spoke, he told the people that he wanted to wear the headset while he was speaking so he could hear himself in Spanish…it was funny at the time.
So, because Janey's so busy I told her that I've give her some thoughts she could pull from for her talk. The topic is "Helping Youth prepare for the temple". It's a topic the Stake Presidency came up with to support the "Raising a righteous generation" topic from the leadership broadcast which was given last weekend. I thought I'd share these thoughts with you guys also, So here goes…
"Our Mothers Knew It"
When the son's of helaman survived in battle against overwhelming odds because of their faith in Christ, they were asked how they had come to have so much faith in God that he would preserve them. They said "we did not doubt, our mothers knew it". Note that they didn't say, "we did not doubt our mothers taught us" - but rather, "our mothers knew it." Our testimony is more powerful than our teachings. What we "know" will have a more lasting impression on our children and grandchildren than what we "say". What we are and what we do, speaks louder than our words.
As a sidenote, she is going to speak in the lighthouse branch which should be fun as that is our hispanic branch and Janey doesn't speaka da espanol. We had our ward conference with them last week so anyone who doesn't speak both English and Spanish gets a headset. And when the Spanish people speak, the translater translates to English. When the English people speak, the translater translates to Spanish. When Pres. Nielsen spoke, he told the people that he wanted to wear the headset while he was speaking so he could hear himself in Spanish…it was funny at the time.
So, because Janey's so busy I told her that I've give her some thoughts she could pull from for her talk. The topic is "Helping Youth prepare for the temple". It's a topic the Stake Presidency came up with to support the "Raising a righteous generation" topic from the leadership broadcast which was given last weekend. I thought I'd share these thoughts with you guys also, So here goes…
"Our Mothers Knew It"
When the son's of helaman survived in battle against overwhelming odds because of their faith in Christ, they were asked how they had come to have so much faith in God that he would preserve them. They said "we did not doubt, our mothers knew it". Note that they didn't say, "we did not doubt our mothers taught us" - but rather, "our mothers knew it." Our testimony is more powerful than our teachings. What we "know" will have a more lasting impression on our children and grandchildren than what we "say". What we are and what we do, speaks louder than our words.
What was it these mothers knew and did which was so convincing to their sons? They knew they had been forgiven of their previous grievous sins, and they knew that Christ had taken their guilt from them. And because of this knowledge, they covenanted with him to NEVER take another human life. And so these marvelous mothers and fathers buried their weapons of war, even though they knew that the lamanite army was pursueing them, and would eventually come to destroy them. When the Lamanite army arrived at their lands to kill these mothers and fathers who were converted and covenanted to Christ, the parents of the stripling warriors chose to lay down before the lamanites and give them their lives, rather than to break their covenant with the Lord. And they did it praising God. Could there be a greater testimony from one generation to the next of putting your faith in God? Of keeping your covenants at all costs? They were willing to give up literally EVERYTHING even their lives, rather than break their covenant with the God who had taken their sins from them.
If we want to raise a righteous generation, one that is prepared to endure in righteousness through trials of temptation, we must be that kind of parent ourselves. We must be willing to give all for our testimony of Christ.
Thankfully we don't need to give our lives to keep our covenants, but there are subtle sacrifices which we are called upon to make, which our children watch. And depending on how we respond to these small and simple sacrifices, they will know if we know, or if we are merely talking like we know:
- Do we accept callings to serve in the church?
- Do we speak ill of our church leaders? Or do we listen with respect and seek to receive testimonies of their words?
- Do we sustain a change of leadership as we've been asked to do with the change of a new prophet?
- Do we keep our covenants to attend our church meetings? To keep all the laws and ordinances of the gospel?
- Do we pay a full tithing? Do we keep the word of wisdom?
- Do we keep our covenants we made in the temple?
- Do we show love in the home, even when poor choices have been made, do we continue to show forth love?
If we want to raise a righteous generation, we should remember to follow the instruction given to us in the leadership broadcast last week. Some of the instruction included these points:
- Seek to have a family by following the perfect pattern set by the Lord
- Study the proclamation to the family and ensure it's principles apply in our lives
- Remember that church is here to support families - and not the other way around. However, oft times it is when we as a family jump in and sacrifice to help at church, that we are being blessed as a family to stay close to each other and the Lord.
- Work at love - work at building a good marriage
- Build a strong family culture, that eats together, reads scriptures together, prays together, works together
- Make decisions based on principles of the gospel, not on whimsy or worldly ways.
- Recognize that the way will be opened up for the faithful, even unforeseen ways.
- Bind family together at dinnertime. Sing "Love at Home" even if through clinched teeth. :)
- BH Roberts said "In non essentials let there be liberty, in essentials let there be unity, but in all things let there be charity."
- Lean on strength of the extended family.
- Church can be part of that extended family.
- World has numerous ways to pull us out of the home. The church tries to find ways to encourage families to come back home.
- Parents create a climate that let's things grow. A place of peace, safety, nourishment where people can question, challenge, and make choices which allow them to grow.
- Father needs to help kids to learn how to work
- Mother needs to build homemaking skills with kids so they feel a safe place
- There is a distinction between housekeeping and homemaking.
- Make the sabbath a delight - make it a family day.
- Pres Monsons 3 things we need to do to ensure we bring more of heaven into our homes: Pattern of prayer, Library of Learning, Legacy of Love.
Finally, if we want children who look forward to going to the temple, who would sacrifice anything to be able to go, we need to be that kind of person ourself.
- We should work hard so that we are worthy to hold a temple recommend.
- We should keep the covenants that we make in the temple
- We should partake of the sacrament each week with a broken heart and contrite spirit.
- We should go to the temple regularly and invite others to go with you.
May we honor our covenants as the mothers and fathers of the armies of helaman honored their covenants… that our children will not doubt, but that they may have faith to go to battle the world, and put themselves in the hands of the Lord when they do it.
Happy Valentines
I realize Valentines isn't for a few more days (okay, only 2) but I figured today was the best and only day to do it...Happy Valentines. Work has been so incredibly busy I want to pull my hair out!!!! I have been working super long hours. We have a million orders for tomorrrow (the day before Valentines), and then more on Valentines. People just can't live without Smart Cookie Company heart shaped sugar cookies.
Today is my day off and I am off to Provo. I am turning in my application to get into the Dietetics program. I still haven't decided what I am going to do, Dietetics for Speech Pathology, but I figured I just needed to keep my options open.
So, I had a super cool missionary experience last week when I took my car in to get the oil changed. I was sitting in the waiting room and writing an essay for my application. After a few minutes this guy came in and sat down next to me. Since there were about 10 other chairs, but I thought this was interesting, but he soon engaged in playing with his cell phone and didn't bother me. After a little while, I noticed he kept looking at what I was writing. Since it wasn't super personal, I decided not to say anything. At one point in the essay I wrote that I had served an LDS mission. Later, he asked me what I was writing my paper for. He told me he had seen the part about me serving a mission. We got talking and I found that he wasn't a member of our church, but a baptist who planned on going to school to be a pastor. He knew a bit about our church and was even reading the Book of Mormon. I suddenly was so grateful for the few months I had on my mission. I didn't feak out and try to feel like I needed to convert him. We were able to just talk about our religions and I felt the most important thing was just to bear my simple testimony that the Book of Mormon was true and tell him my favorite versus of scripture. It was a testimony building experience for me. I am just sure I didn't convert him, but I know that with each testimony he hears, that is one step closer for him finding the truth.
Anyway, that is the experince I wanted to share. I wanted ya'll to know I am set up and ready to start Blogging like crazy. :) Now it's back to finishing the application and heading down to Provo! Love you all. Happy Valentines.
Love, Janey
Today is my day off and I am off to Provo. I am turning in my application to get into the Dietetics program. I still haven't decided what I am going to do, Dietetics for Speech Pathology, but I figured I just needed to keep my options open.
So, I had a super cool missionary experience last week when I took my car in to get the oil changed. I was sitting in the waiting room and writing an essay for my application. After a few minutes this guy came in and sat down next to me. Since there were about 10 other chairs, but I thought this was interesting, but he soon engaged in playing with his cell phone and didn't bother me. After a little while, I noticed he kept looking at what I was writing. Since it wasn't super personal, I decided not to say anything. At one point in the essay I wrote that I had served an LDS mission. Later, he asked me what I was writing my paper for. He told me he had seen the part about me serving a mission. We got talking and I found that he wasn't a member of our church, but a baptist who planned on going to school to be a pastor. He knew a bit about our church and was even reading the Book of Mormon. I suddenly was so grateful for the few months I had on my mission. I didn't feak out and try to feel like I needed to convert him. We were able to just talk about our religions and I felt the most important thing was just to bear my simple testimony that the Book of Mormon was true and tell him my favorite versus of scripture. It was a testimony building experience for me. I am just sure I didn't convert him, but I know that with each testimony he hears, that is one step closer for him finding the truth.
Anyway, that is the experince I wanted to share. I wanted ya'll to know I am set up and ready to start Blogging like crazy. :) Now it's back to finishing the application and heading down to Provo! Love you all. Happy Valentines.
Love, Janey
Monday, February 11, 2008
I am here and kicking!
Well I have finally gotten onto my email and I am super excited about this blog thing. I think it is brillant! Although, I think there is a better name for it out there somewhere! :) Dad I wanted you to know that the introduction post you wrote was awe-inspiring. I mean I just had to write. I will try to share my deep thoughts with everybody! Well I need to head out but I just wanted ya'll to know I am in it to stay!!! FOREVER! Have a great day. Love you all.
Love, Rosey
Love, Rosey
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Ready, Set, Go...
Hi everyone this is Stef. Nick and I just wanted to write a little bit about what we have been up to. It may not amount to more than school, work, and homework, but we will try our best.
I am having so much fun teaching at the MTC. I have the cutest missionaries that are so fun and its a blessing to be around them. I love it even more because before most of my shifts start, I just walk down to the bookstore and say hi to my hub. Its been fun to go on a couple of dates to the MTC cafeteria and load up on a $3.70 all you can eat buffet.
Something that has been so fun for us lately is seeing my little bump mutate as little Bret wiggles and goes to swimming lessons. We usually just laugh our heads off, its such a neat thing. Today we team taught our first lesson on the sacred role of mothers in the marriage and family class for sunday school. It went well and it will be fun to teach with Nickerbocker.
School has been going well for me. Its so fun to be in my last semester and I love when people who just got into the program ask when I graduate and I get to say April. Its sweet! I have been trying to work a little bit more on Nick's mission scrapbook, (I am still on his first area), but its looking good so far.
Well I love you all and miss Blaine, Kristi, Gwen, and Ben like mad. Makes me wish we had gone down to Austin more while we were there. Sure look forward to seeing everyone real soon. Love--STEF
I am having so much fun teaching at the MTC. I have the cutest missionaries that are so fun and its a blessing to be around them. I love it even more because before most of my shifts start, I just walk down to the bookstore and say hi to my hub. Its been fun to go on a couple of dates to the MTC cafeteria and load up on a $3.70 all you can eat buffet.
Something that has been so fun for us lately is seeing my little bump mutate as little Bret wiggles and goes to swimming lessons. We usually just laugh our heads off, its such a neat thing. Today we team taught our first lesson on the sacred role of mothers in the marriage and family class for sunday school. It went well and it will be fun to teach with Nickerbocker.
School has been going well for me. Its so fun to be in my last semester and I love when people who just got into the program ask when I graduate and I get to say April. Its sweet! I have been trying to work a little bit more on Nick's mission scrapbook, (I am still on his first area), but its looking good so far.
Well I love you all and miss Blaine, Kristi, Gwen, and Ben like mad. Makes me wish we had gone down to Austin more while we were there. Sure look forward to seeing everyone real soon. Love--STEF
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Kids - you gotta love em!
Kristi - we loved your fun dance date story of Gwennies and Blaines. I love the comment on how she must have had a little too many cookies and too much punch. That's the story of my life. Thank heaven we don't have the attitude towards kids that this cartoon portrays. Loves.
Wall Street got it right, but it was all wrong.
I just wanted to get any comments ya'll might have on Mitt Romney's exiting out of the race for President. It's bugged mom and I all week. We didn't realize how much we had hopes for a change in government that might make a difference. Upon his announcement Nick sent out an article which ran on the first page of the WSJ telling about all the things that happened in the media regarding Mormons and Mitt, which have left Mormon's with a sour taste in their mouth.
> http://online.wsj.com/wsjgate?subURI=%2Farticle%2FSB12024332372185241
When I first read the article, my rage was hot as I recalled all the ways in which the church was maligned through those months Mitt ws running. Then I realized that I needn't be angry, I know the truth about who we are as a religion. We aren't psychos or weirdo's. We aren't poor and uneducated people whose wifes are always pregnant and whose families are barefoot. We aren't sitting around talking about ways to disrupt or destroy other religions. We aren't polygamists. We aren't anti-non-member. We don't hold to doctrines that are so far out there as to be considered fantasy by 'right-thinking' people. We don't disassociate ourselves from others. Au contrare. We try to find ways to serve and help bless others. We are educated, we work hard in our chosen occupations, we participate in community government and strive to make the world a better place where all can grow. We are happy. We are content with the blessings the Lord's given us, and strive to help our children work for blessings in their own lives. We don't drink, smoke, or adulterate. In fact in numerous places, it was pointed out that Mitt was the only one running that wasn't on their second or third wife (spouse). And the cool thing about mormons is that Mitt isn't unique. Our families are drawn together with real gospel teachings. We help our own when it comes to welfare needs - in fact we help any amongst us, member or not, who have real needs.
There is much about mormonism which would bless and strengthen the country, if the country would just look into what we really are. And that's the rub. As long as there are people who misrepresent us so that people are scared of us, the country will not be blessed. May we all continue to live so that people will not believe those who are seeking to malign us.
Thanks again Nick.
Below is Sid's good comment on his response to the article as well.
Sent: Saturday, February 09, 2008 11:37 AM
To: Bassett Bark
Subject: Re: WSJ.com - Mormons Dismayed by Harsh Spotlight
Thanks for sending this along Nick. I too felt the "open season" agenda in the media and will long remember the distasteful way they dealt with the unsaid religious bigotry during this campaign. I'm not sad, angry, shocked, or ashamed. Disappointed is I guess the best way I would describe my feelings. Not unlike most followers of Christ from the beginning of time. Another good reason to have the scriptures...they remind us of who "our people" really are. I had my eyes wide open throughout the campaign and duly noted the manner in which we as a religion were treated. Those that stepped out in defense of the church were far braver than those that took cheap, pointed jabs along the way, using the popular media as a dark shadow of protectionism.
Oh well, my faith is strong, my testimony is sure, and my abiding love for my Heavenly Father grows daily. Say what you want about the Romney campaign, but as for me and mine, I am energized and recommitted by his unwillingness to take the cheap shots along the way and hold strong. Perfect he isn't, but unlike the many minions that groveled in the mire of amoralistic correctness, I was proud of how he dealt with the pressure of being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints!
Sid
Any other comments?
> http://online.wsj.com/wsjgate?subURI=%2Farticle%2FSB12024332372185241
When I first read the article, my rage was hot as I recalled all the ways in which the church was maligned through those months Mitt ws running. Then I realized that I needn't be angry, I know the truth about who we are as a religion. We aren't psychos or weirdo's. We aren't poor and uneducated people whose wifes are always pregnant and whose families are barefoot. We aren't sitting around talking about ways to disrupt or destroy other religions. We aren't polygamists. We aren't anti-non-member. We don't hold to doctrines that are so far out there as to be considered fantasy by 'right-thinking' people. We don't disassociate ourselves from others. Au contrare. We try to find ways to serve and help bless others. We are educated, we work hard in our chosen occupations, we participate in community government and strive to make the world a better place where all can grow. We are happy. We are content with the blessings the Lord's given us, and strive to help our children work for blessings in their own lives. We don't drink, smoke, or adulterate. In fact in numerous places, it was pointed out that Mitt was the only one running that wasn't on their second or third wife (spouse). And the cool thing about mormons is that Mitt isn't unique. Our families are drawn together with real gospel teachings. We help our own when it comes to welfare needs - in fact we help any amongst us, member or not, who have real needs.
There is much about mormonism which would bless and strengthen the country, if the country would just look into what we really are. And that's the rub. As long as there are people who misrepresent us so that people are scared of us, the country will not be blessed. May we all continue to live so that people will not believe those who are seeking to malign us.
Thanks again Nick.
Below is Sid's good comment on his response to the article as well.
Sent: Saturday, February 09, 2008 11:37 AM
To: Bassett Bark
Subject: Re: WSJ.com - Mormons Dismayed by Harsh Spotlight
Thanks for sending this along Nick. I too felt the "open season" agenda in the media and will long remember the distasteful way they dealt with the unsaid religious bigotry during this campaign. I'm not sad, angry, shocked, or ashamed. Disappointed is I guess the best way I would describe my feelings. Not unlike most followers of Christ from the beginning of time. Another good reason to have the scriptures...they remind us of who "our people" really are. I had my eyes wide open throughout the campaign and duly noted the manner in which we as a religion were treated. Those that stepped out in defense of the church were far braver than those that took cheap, pointed jabs along the way, using the popular media as a dark shadow of protectionism.
Oh well, my faith is strong, my testimony is sure, and my abiding love for my Heavenly Father grows daily. Say what you want about the Romney campaign, but as for me and mine, I am energized and recommitted by his unwillingness to take the cheap shots along the way and hold strong. Perfect he isn't, but unlike the many minions that groveled in the mire of amoralistic correctness, I was proud of how he dealt with the pressure of being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints!
Sid
Any other comments?
Building Up A Righteous Posterity
Dad and I just got home from the World Wide Leadership Training. All adults in the church 18 and older were invited. (Only Max was off the hook!) If you weren't able to attend, I do hope that you take the chance to read it. I was so inspired by the messages we heard. Yes, inspired to tears. Thanks for being such good kids and having faith to get married and then bring children into the world. Thanks for your obedience through the years, for your trust in dad and I and in Heavenly Father's plan for you individually. I know that as a family we surely aren't perfect, but I felt happy for the things we have done right and that all of us have hearts that desire to do good and to learn and to grow. I love you all.
Love, Mom
Love, Mom
Gettin' jiggy with it
There is a little Rec center down the road from where we live. It is where I go work out in the mornings. They have had this big banner up for a while advertising a daddy daughter dance. I decided that I would buy Gwen and Blaine some tickets. The big day was last night. I got Gwen all dazzled up (including using the make-up that Janey gave her for her birthday!) and let her answer the door.
Blaine showed up with a big plush tiger that had a rose (also plush) in it's mouth and a sugar cookie. Gwen was so excited! She kept talking about the cookie and hugging Blaine. I thought the tiger was a good idea because now she can always have it whereas flowers would have wilted away too soon!
Blaine showed up with a big plush tiger that had a rose (also plush) in it's mouth and a sugar cookie. Gwen was so excited! She kept talking about the cookie and hugging Blaine. I thought the tiger was a good idea because now she can always have it whereas flowers would have wilted away too soon!
I guess the parking lot was so crowded that they had to go park in a grocery store parking lot and ride the bus to the dance, which is an added bonus for a girl crazzzzy about school busses!
Looks like she was a party animal at the dance!
And judging from her utter exhaustion and emotional instability I think she had a few too many sugar cookies and a little too much punch!
Overall I think they had a good time. Gwen had a great time but Blaine was a little frustrated because they spent half the time standing in line for pictures only to find out when they got to the front of the line that the pictures were about $40 (gulp!), so they waited in line for nothing.
They loved the few minutes they got to dance though! And it was so fun to get Gwen excited about it during the day! Enjoy the pictures!!
Love,
Kristi/daughter-in-law/sister-in-law ;) Just teasing. I think the slash thing is pretty funny.
Friday, February 8, 2008
One Happy Mama!
I'm so excited I don't know what to write. Thanks to Kristi for sharing her knowledge and talents to help get this set up. Thanks to dad for being so patient with me and teaching me how to do this! And thanks to all of you who will hopefully write and share your lives. I almost feel guilty because this seems so easy! I'm so excited and hope this will work as a way to keep us close as a family. I am so happy that one of my 2008 New Year's resolution is being fulfilled!
I'll start with a couple highlights from January. Of course the Bassett Mexican Riveria cruise was the highlight! We missed Emery and Kent but that was their loss. Royce and Mardette joined us so we had a total of 14. It was a wonderful week as we have told you. Besides great food, great ports of call, and great weather, we had a fun thing we did every night called "gathering time." We tried it the first night in grandma and Curt's stateroom but that was waaay too tight so we moved it to the Horizon Court (Tiffany's) and each couple took a turn being in charge. On our night dad and I had everyone write down their favorite three movies and then had everyone guess who said what. Then we went around the circle and had everyone say something they had learned from grandma. That was really fun and I think appreciated by grandma. One of my favorite moments on the cruise was in Puerta Villarta on a sunny afternoon in Janey's swimsuit on the beach at the Crystal Villarta. Dad swam in the ocean with me and I just got such a charge out of it. Then we floated in their freshwater pool and I just loved it. It was one of those moments that I wanted to last and last. So that is your taste of the cruise. Maybe I can figure out how to post a photo.
Another January highlight was ward conference where dad spoke on this year's stake theme of Service. It has prompted me to create a little service book where I record acts of service. It's been an interesting exercise. I'm still trying to keep up my temple goal same as last year - one visit to the temple for every year of life. So basically that is almost weekly.
I think you all heard that at ward conf. we got a new bishopric. Tom Wynn is our bishop, Wayne Poulson is first coun. and Paul Nelson is second coun. I think this is the first time I've seen Wayne or Paul in a full suit! They are doing a great job and seem so excited and happy and humble about their callings.
February brought the elections. I was an election judge this year. I was at Hunter Library on Super Tuesday from 6 am to 9 pm. Wow that is a long day. And we aren't allowed to leave (except for a bathroom break) Nice dad brought me food. The precinct boundries have been changed so I didn't know very many people who came in but I did see Stef's family so that was good. And while I'm talking elections, I have to say how SAD I am that Mitt had to withdraw. I was grumpy all day Thursday because of it.
So that gives a taste of my life. I love dad and I love all of you more than words can say. I guess I don't write "Love, Mom" I just push "publish post."
I'll start with a couple highlights from January. Of course the Bassett Mexican Riveria cruise was the highlight! We missed Emery and Kent but that was their loss. Royce and Mardette joined us so we had a total of 14. It was a wonderful week as we have told you. Besides great food, great ports of call, and great weather, we had a fun thing we did every night called "gathering time." We tried it the first night in grandma and Curt's stateroom but that was waaay too tight so we moved it to the Horizon Court (Tiffany's) and each couple took a turn being in charge. On our night dad and I had everyone write down their favorite three movies and then had everyone guess who said what. Then we went around the circle and had everyone say something they had learned from grandma. That was really fun and I think appreciated by grandma. One of my favorite moments on the cruise was in Puerta Villarta on a sunny afternoon in Janey's swimsuit on the beach at the Crystal Villarta. Dad swam in the ocean with me and I just got such a charge out of it. Then we floated in their freshwater pool and I just loved it. It was one of those moments that I wanted to last and last. So that is your taste of the cruise. Maybe I can figure out how to post a photo.
Another January highlight was ward conference where dad spoke on this year's stake theme of Service. It has prompted me to create a little service book where I record acts of service. It's been an interesting exercise. I'm still trying to keep up my temple goal same as last year - one visit to the temple for every year of life. So basically that is almost weekly.
I think you all heard that at ward conf. we got a new bishopric. Tom Wynn is our bishop, Wayne Poulson is first coun. and Paul Nelson is second coun. I think this is the first time I've seen Wayne or Paul in a full suit! They are doing a great job and seem so excited and happy and humble about their callings.
February brought the elections. I was an election judge this year. I was at Hunter Library on Super Tuesday from 6 am to 9 pm. Wow that is a long day. And we aren't allowed to leave (except for a bathroom break) Nice dad brought me food. The precinct boundries have been changed so I didn't know very many people who came in but I did see Stef's family so that was good. And while I'm talking elections, I have to say how SAD I am that Mitt had to withdraw. I was grumpy all day Thursday because of it.
So that gives a taste of my life. I love dad and I love all of you more than words can say. I guess I don't write "Love, Mom" I just push "publish post."
Greetings from Max!!
Hey everyone,
Dad just showed me how to use this blog. I am so, so excited to put some movies on it. I will be putting a bunch on. Well, I hope to. And now since I have a new great editing program, we will be making a bunch more. Blaine and Kristi haven't seen most of the new movies we made. Can't wait to show you guys!!! I will probably be making an account in YouTube and sending links to go there so you can see my movies. Thanks
Max
Dad just showed me how to use this blog. I am so, so excited to put some movies on it. I will be putting a bunch on. Well, I hope to. And now since I have a new great editing program, we will be making a bunch more. Blaine and Kristi haven't seen most of the new movies we made. Can't wait to show you guys!!! I will probably be making an account in YouTube and sending links to go there so you can see my movies. Thanks
Max
Welcome family to BAWB
Families change over time. They add members and lose members. They move around - different cities, states, and perhaps even countries. One day they all fit in a sedan and then as they grow they won't all fit in a 50 passenger tour bus. They are at one level led by a mom and dad, and at another level led by a great grandma and/or grandpa. And as families grow and change, so does the family's culture.
Mom and I feel that no matter how we change as a Bret and Wendy Bassett family, and we will change over time, that we can still stay close to each other. Thank heaven for technology which can help pull us together if we'll all just put forth a little effort. First, thanks to Kristi for pulling this site together. I'm sure it will evolve, but it's a wonderful start! Thanks.
Now we want to invite you to come out weekly, daily, monthly, or whenever works best for you to share your lives with us. Make comments to others letters. Make letters of your own. Post pictures, slideshows, or whatever you like. Post links to your favorite websites and your own personal blog (if you have one). Wax philosphical on topics which inspire you. I think it was Socrates (pronounced SOW-CRATES - thanks Bill and Ted) who said, "The unexamined life is a life not worth living." Let this be a place where you examine and think and feel. And then share it with us. Those of us on the aging generation (still in denial) will be delighted with anything you want to share.
So that's it. I know there will be some learning that needs to happen to get us all comfortable out here, and maybe this won't even work and we'll change to something else. But in any case, let's think about each other and share what we can and will.
Loves to you all...
Bret/Dad
Mom and I feel that no matter how we change as a Bret and Wendy Bassett family, and we will change over time, that we can still stay close to each other. Thank heaven for technology which can help pull us together if we'll all just put forth a little effort. First, thanks to Kristi for pulling this site together. I'm sure it will evolve, but it's a wonderful start! Thanks.
Now we want to invite you to come out weekly, daily, monthly, or whenever works best for you to share your lives with us. Make comments to others letters. Make letters of your own. Post pictures, slideshows, or whatever you like. Post links to your favorite websites and your own personal blog (if you have one). Wax philosphical on topics which inspire you. I think it was Socrates (pronounced SOW-CRATES - thanks Bill and Ted) who said, "The unexamined life is a life not worth living." Let this be a place where you examine and think and feel. And then share it with us. Those of us on the aging generation (still in denial) will be delighted with anything you want to share.
So that's it. I know there will be some learning that needs to happen to get us all comfortable out here, and maybe this won't even work and we'll change to something else. But in any case, let's think about each other and share what we can and will.
Loves to you all...
Bret/Dad
Thursday, February 7, 2008
They call me NiBAWBer
Hey Ya'll,
I need to learn how to blog. I am sure I will pick it up with practice. I have been on campus since 8 this morning and have been working, in school, or doing homework until now (10 pm). Stef gets off work any minute and I can't wait to see her.
Life is good. School is unbelievably busy. It is fun being in school and married though. There is much less pressure to be so social, and it comes a little more naturally to work hard in school. It is also fun as well understanding how what I am learning will apply in the real world. Finances and economics are interesting, but I hope to get involved in an industry that interests me as well.
Anyway, the church is true. Carry on carry on carry on.
I need to learn how to blog. I am sure I will pick it up with practice. I have been on campus since 8 this morning and have been working, in school, or doing homework until now (10 pm). Stef gets off work any minute and I can't wait to see her.
Life is good. School is unbelievably busy. It is fun being in school and married though. There is much less pressure to be so social, and it comes a little more naturally to work hard in school. It is also fun as well understanding how what I am learning will apply in the real world. Finances and economics are interesting, but I hope to get involved in an industry that interests me as well.
Anyway, the church is true. Carry on carry on carry on.
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