Senior Weston's

Confort of the

2012-01-24T16:54:00.001-08:00

Tempur- pedic Bed

2012-01-08T22:57:00.000-08:00

Our grandkids came over to visit this evening and tried out our new Temper-pedic bed which adjust and has a vibrator on each side. It was a thrill for all of them!

Christmas Cactus

2012-01-08T22:54:00.000-08:00

We have had a Christmas Cactus since Michael was born. This one is a start from the original one and decided to bloom this year There is a bloom on each stem. We are excited that it really began on Christmas and continues to bloom

New Year's Eve

2012-01-04T01:06:00.000-08:00

Breakfast at Black Bear Diner with Matt and Rachel

Our New Years Celebration with Rachel, Matt, Calvin, Adon, Kael and Paige

We had Rachel and Matt for a few days and over New years and Cal, Adon, Kael and Paige too for an overnighter for New Years. It was so fun and they all seems to have a blast together. it has been a tradition for a few year and they all look forward to the activities, food, food and celebration!!

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-29T21:27:00.000-08:00

We send you all a wish for a happy and peaceful New Year with good things for your families. We have been blessed to see some of our family and talk to all the others and spend more time with my Mom this year. We are so grateful for being blessed with a terrific family and appreciate their love and and friendship as well! Our Father in Heaven has been good to us in our aging years. There are aches from just getting older, but we appreciate that we can travel and enjoy our family and friends!

2011-12-22T22:32:00.000-08:00

A very cute video on Christmas!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-22T00:11:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all of our friends and family. How blessed we are to have the Savior in our lives as a directing influence. We send our love to all of our family and friends
and wish you joy in the coming year!!
Enjoy the following link from children

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=ki8EcnVbd-Q Full Screen

Nativity Collection

2011-12-17T21:40:00.000-08:00

We enjoy the Nativity and have begun a collection for our home and have decorated our tree with nativity oraments. Here are a few of the sets which have been given to us by our children and friends.

Christmas Picture 2011

2011-12-17T00:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2011

Our talented daughter, Amanda took a picture of us today - we were pleased with the results and appreciate her skill and time spent with us. Thank you, Amanda!

Joseph Smith Building Displays

2011-12-10T16:43:00.000-08:00

This chandelier is huge and sparkles over the top of the tree

There was a large display of different types of nativity sets - these are just a few

This tree goes clear to the ceiling chandelier - just stunning- there is a balcony all around where musical groups sang Christmas music - just beautiful!

I spent some time in the Joseph Smith Building where we had lunch in the Garden Room n the 10th floor, then sat and listened to high school choirs which were very good and viewed the huge tree in the center and the display of nativity sets. Very much got me in the mood for Christmas

Christmas at Temple Square

2011-12-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

Patsy and Malcolm in the Garden Room Restaurant on the 10th floor of the Joseph Smith Building in Salt Lake with a view of the Temple

The Salt Lake Temple lit up for Christmas with lights all over the Temple grounds!
Pictures just don't do it justice!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T00:29:00.000-08:00

Paige and Rachel

Miles and Mason

We had such a wonderful Thanksgiving week. Brian, Deb, Rachel and Matt came up on Tuesday and stayed through Thanksgiving so the cousins played together and we enjoyed some R&R with Brian and Deb. On Thursday, Mike, Annette and Miles joined us and Amanda and Tyler and their children came over and we had our usual big Turkey and the trimmings. Just a great day and everyone assisted with the meal so it was very relaxed and fun. Our only glitch was a tumble into the wall for Carson who eventually went to the hospital and had six stitches in his head. He is doing fine now and was so brave. Thank you all for coming and making the day so full on memories!! We love you all!

Mason, Carson and Brian with the Ipad

Annette and Debbie

Our brave little Carson

Amanda and Tyler with Mike and Paige

Canning Time Again!

2011-11-19T21:20:00.000-08:00

We got some apples a couple of weeks ago so today I made applesauce and apple pie filling and some apple,raspberry, pomegrante, strawberry jam. It is always such a good feeling to have all my jars filled up for winter!!

To Mariposa

2011-11-09T00:13:00.000-08:00

Mariposa County courthouse

Malcolm and I took off for a few days to check out an area called Bass Lake for a possible family get-together, then to Mariposa for Malcolm to check out some family names and dates. We booked some very nice motels and had some good dinner out too. Unfortunately, I got a cough on the trip so we spent quite a bit of time in the motels just relaxing. I was grateful for the rest. Mariposa was a very fun town to visit at the old cemetery and library. Malcolm found some interesting material and I took advantage of friends of the library sale at the library and purchased a couple of books. We enjoyed the time spent together so much!

2011-11-08T23:57:00.000-08:00

Love these kids and what a trio!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FfGzeM27zg&feature=share

Just highlight the link and right click open link to view.

Wasp nests

2011-10-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Wasps in one bird feeder

Another home for wasps

Even our raspberry bushes have wasp homes

We have been plagued with wasps in our yard so I have been stung several times with a bad reaction. Malcolm found some in a cement mixer and other places, but today I found them in our bird feeders and even in our raspberry bushes. They made a big mistake because Malcolm will fix them!

Carson and Malcolm

2011-10-24T23:37:00.000-07:00

I just love this very cute picture of Carson and Malcolm looking over the edge at Yosemite. The power of example in children is so special!!

Pictures from vacation

2011-10-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

Malcolm at Temple Square

A beautiful Mural in one of the buildings on Temple Square

A view of the temple from the Church Office Building

A visit to the Tabernacle

Patsy at Temple Square

Malcolm at the Seagull Momument

An unusual cloud formation near the freeway going home.

Some pictures from our recent trip to Utah. It was a good vacation!

2011-10-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Rylie in her Baptism dress

Rylie with Amy and Trent

Mal and Patsy at Temple Square

Mal in the tunnel in the Joseph Smith building on our way to lunch

Beautiful Salt Lake Temple

Malcolm and I have had a wonderful journey visiting with Amy, Trent and their children for Rylie's baptism and celebrating our anniversary, then on to Utah for a few days with Gram Eastland. We did some errands and fix-it jobs for her and just enjoyed her company and got plenty of rest and spend quite a bit of time in Salt Lake City visiting new places we had not seen and just generally enjoying ourselves. We had dinner at a place called the Flemming Steak House and had a super dinner - wonderful evening. We also did plenty of walking everywhere.

Snowing

2011-10-06T14:21:00.000-07:00

Snow in Idaho Falls

Rylie on Buck and Bronco

Mady and Lexi making sand necklaces

We are at Amy and Trent's and were lucky enough not to get caught in the snow following us. However this morning, it began to rain, then snow, then heavy snow. We got some great pictures of all the fluffy white snow in their back yard, front yard and our car. It feels cold to us because it is in the 37-39 range. Kind of exciting to be here with the first snow of the fall season. We did not expect it!! This is quite a change for us from California! We are enjoying our visit with grandchildren and attended their school carnival last evening. They had a ball playing games and collecting tokens to cash in at the end of the fun!

Our Roses

2011-10-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

We love these red and yellow roses which seem to bloom all year long. Malcolm just picked some today

Trip to Apple Hill

2011-10-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

Our grandchildren, Mason, Paige and Carson with Fireman sprinkler

Fireman Sprinkler

Malcolm and I spent a wonderful and fun day at Apple Hill. We got some placemats, Apples and a delightful fireman sprinkler for our lawn. Our grandkids loved seeing it work. It looks like a person from a distance. A very clever wood worker from Oklahoma made these works of art. We had a delicious apple turnover and lunch, then came home and stored our apples. This is an annual event we take advantage of each year and enjoy just as much every time we go.

New Bedroom

2011-09-23T00:55:00.001-07:00

We bought a new split king memory foam bed and some new bedding. I had to add a blue edge to the coverlet because it was not long enough and then made some curtains to match. We love the new look and comfort of our master bedroom. Now we are finished fixing up the house and repairing things. We are grateful for our comfortable little home!

A new soaking walk-in tub and water softener

2011-09-23T00:41:00.000-07:00

We ordered a new water softener because our water is so hard. We notice a great difference in bathing, washing clothes and dishes. Everything is just very nice and sparkling clean.

Malcolm surprised me by ordering a walk in tub while I was at my Mom's house. It will be so much easier to get in and out to soak my legs. I am blessed and so appreciative of such a thoughtful and wonderful hubby!! I followed the progress in a few pictures including our very competent contractors who had a wonderful attitude even when things were difficult and new fittings had to be picked up, etc. They even had to make a door opening in Malcolm's office to have access to the plumbing. It is a wonderful addition to our home!!!

Eureka Ward Reunion & Trip

2011-09-15T14:40:00.000-07:00

We didn't miss time for ice cream - Malcolm's favorite dessert

Dan and Ben at his Soccer game. Dan coaches - then we met up with Kristina and went to yogurt Bliss- a yummy shop where you get your own yogurt and your own toppings (there are tons of choices and ours were all different, but delicious!

The pictures below are of some of our friends from Eureka, CA . We had not seen most of them since 1983 so it was quite a reunion.

Matt Stockwell's family

Rhonda Kilpatrick Hancock and Hubby Doug

Sherrie Kilpatrick Van Orden

Bob Sorensen

Lane Kilpatrick

Ron Kilpatrick

John Ruell

Peggy Buchanan's Son Ryan and his wife

Carole Melanson and Peggy Buchanan

Ellen Miller Messerly

Malcolm and I drove to Utah to participate in a Eureka Reunion. There were many people there so it was just wonderful to visit with everyone who came. There was a park reserved, we all brought our own dinners and just had a grand visit for hours.

Old Days

2011-09-15T14:37:00.000-07:00

Mom (Naomi) 2011 during our visit this past week

Easter 1947 with Dad, Patsy,Valerie and Linda

Easter with Mom and Linda

This is an old church we walked by every day going to school in Fairbanks, Alaska

Reno

2011-09-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

Our Room had a great big whirlpool tub, but it did not work so we just got a picture

We stayed in the Ramada Inn 12th floor and had a terrific view of Reno at night
We stopped in Reno on our way to a visit with Mom. Dad and I also had Eureka reunion. We also visited a very interesting quilt shop next to the hotel who was giving out patterns for a special day when hot air balloons were up!

Our Children 2011

2011-09-05T02:32:00.001-07:00

Us with all of our children - July 2011 after Michael and Annette's wedding

Todd, Russell, Michael, Brian, Daniel
Valerie, Amy & Amanda
July 23, 2011

Dinner in Napa

2011-09-01T00:21:00.000-07:00

Malcolm and Rachel enjoying a fun moment

Matt sitting on a frog near the fountain outside the restaurant

The fence outside Brian's new office has a mural painted - very realistic

The three sculptures are in the fountain outside the restaurant in the garden

A beautiful pink rose in the garden by the restaurant

Brian and Deb relaxing after dinner

We drove to Napa for the afternoon and evening for a visit with Brian, Deb, Rachel and Matt. We drove over to Brian's new office complex which is an old victorian home they have converted and decorated with period decorations and accessories. It is very nicely done and fun to explore all the features They have landscaped the outside and really done a nice job!
Then we went to an Italian restaurant with a garden where they grow their own veggies and very delicious food. We had a great time and enjoyed our time with the whole family

Canning Tomatoes

2011-08-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

Our good friend Brad Stewart gave us 10 gallons of tomatoes so yesterday I made tomato soup and chili sauce. We got 46 pints and 6 quarts of tomato products. Thank you Stewarts!! We are blessed to have such thoughtful friends. This is especially nice because we did not have a garden this year.

Visit with Mom

2011-08-16T22:09:00.000-07:00

Bradley and Grant

An Amish couple at the train depot in Sacramento

Erin and Katya

Gram Eastland relaxing

Kylie at Cafe Rio

Malcolm and I just spent some time with my Mom in Utah and had a wonderful time. I traveled on the train for the first week and spent some time cleaning freezer, refrig., organizing and cleaning, cooking and enjoying visiting with my Mom. We bought her car so I spent some time having it serviced until Malcolm flew in the next week. My cousin, Denise let me use one of their cars the whole time so I could run errands to the store to shop for Mom and post office, bank, etc. It was a privilege to be able to help her and give Denise a couple of weeks off. She is so helpful to Mom with meals, shopping and Dr. appointments. I also got some wonderful visiting time with Mom and talked about growing up and some family history. She is so alert and bright and a joy to visit with. We plan to visit more often now that we have the time available. I am blessed to have a great Mom! We also took Dan's family to dinner as Cafe Rio and enjoyed it so much. The first week Steve's family came and brought dinner and I made rolls and potato salad and had a great time with them too. It was such a good time with family.

Mike and Annette

2011-07-26T00:56:00.001-07:00

Mike and Annette's Family at the wedding

Michael and Annette asked me to make their cake

Mike asked Dad to perform their wedding - it was wonderful!

Just the two of them

Official wedding portrait
(Erik and Amanda took some great pictures)

Mike and Annette were married July 23rd at the Gridley Stake Center. Malcolm performed the marriage at Michael and Annette's request. It was wonderful and we had all of our children and grandchildren in attendance. It was a beautifully prepared ceremony and reception. We all enjoyed each other and celebrated their special day!

Pageant of the Masters and Beach Time

2011-07-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

We spent some time at the Beach prior to attend the Pageant and the waves were just sooo good That day!

Some of the art we viewed prior to the show

The festival building

Malcolm and I at the Pageant

Mike and Annette at the Pageant

Just Goofing off taking some pictures

Malcolm at Red Robin's for dinner

Patsy at Red Robin's for dinner
( We took each other's pictures)

A perfect day at the beach. We walked a long way on the sand

Malcolm and I had a great repeat week in Laguna Beach and Newport Beach last week when we met Mike and Annette for the Pageant of the Masters. It is a terrific Art show with people injected into the painting for over a minute. There is always a theme and this year was Make Believe so there were very cute dragons, Peter Pan and many contemporary artist portrayed. It was just amazing and time went by so fast. There were many paintings so the show lasted two hours. Prior to the show we viewed the art, pottery, jewelry and sculpture done by gifted artist from the area. We took two days for the drive so we had time when we arrived to go the beach and watch the waves and look in some cute shops and dream about a beach house for a week. ( we checked the prices and decided the motel was just great) We had dinner out by ourselves, bought me a new dress for Mike and Annette's coming wedding , had dinner with Mike and Annette and took in the show. On the way home we visited with our friends the Goss; in Fresno and enjoyed a great evening with them too. It was a wonderful week! Thank to my honey for all the driving and taking such good care of me!!

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

How blessed we are to live in a land of freedom! We are grateful to all those who have sacrificed for our country and freedom. We love America the Beautiful! Happy 4th of July1

Paige helping clean silver spoons

2011-07-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

Malcolm and I shared the 4th of July with Amanda and Tyler. We made potato salad, beans, all kinds of fresh fruit, hamburgers and hot dogs, corn on the cob and rootbeer floats. It was delicious. Afterwards Paige and I went home and cleaned my silver spoons. It was Paige's first experience and she was enthusiastic and very cute.

New Car

2011-06-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

Malcolm with our new Subaru Forester

Our New Car - We love it!
It was time for us to get a new car for traveling. We had lots of miles on our other cars so we traded in the Sebring and got this new car. It has lots of fun things on it - a back up camera, moon roof and places to plug in phones, warming seats, and lot of features that make it a handy and fun traveling car plus it is very comfortable..

Sarah's Graduation

2011-06-10T22:54:00.000-07:00

Sarah, Andrew and Brittany

Sarah and Malcolm

Malcolm flew to Tillamook for Sarah's graduation. I could not go because my leg is not healed enough. We have managed for at least one of us to attend all of our grandchildren's graduations and it was wonderful that Malcolm could share the day with her and her family. He had a great time. Sarah is our 7th grandchild to graduate - Congratulations, Sarah!!

1st raspberries

2011-06-06T07:44:00.000-07:00

We picked our first huge, sweet raspberries from our garden today! They were so yummy!!

Happy Birthday, Malcolm!!

2011-05-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

Then - May 31, 1941

Now - May 31, 2011

Happy 70th Birthday to my Angel Husband! He is an incredible Husband, Father and Man. I am blessed to be married to him for almost 48 years this Fall. He is a talented man who has plaedy every kind of ball and worked in an interesting area of employment. Malcolm has a great sense of humor, and love for outdoors, hiking and backpacking. Several of his friends and Brian have joined him on his adventures in Alaska. He also took young men on great hikes in Yosemite and Marble Mountains. When we moved to Live Oak, he took on beautifying our home with some very creative and beautiful planters and patios. He also served on our city council and has been an asset in his calling at Church. Wow! What a guy - I love him sooo much Happy Birthday my darling husband!

Grandma (Elizabeth) Weston

2011-05-31T14:08:00.000-07:00

Our Dear Mom and Gram passed peacefully away Sunday, May 29th . She led a wonderful and full life with many friends and Grandchildren who loved her dearly. She played games with them, made them eat healthy foods and was delightful to be around. She always had a special feeling for babies and made certain all her granddaughters had baby dolls as long as she could give them. Many of our children would spend some time in the summer working with grandpa and enjoying games afterwards with them. She and Grandpa belonged to a dance group and several times took grandchildren with them to watch the fun. We have been blessed to be around gram and grandpa all of our married life so our children have had some rich and wonderful memories! Malcolm and I have been particularly close to Gram and Grandpa since we moved to Live Oak and they to Marysville. We spent some time shopping, doctor appointments and family outings together for the past 6 years. and have had so much fun!

New Knee

2011-05-28T23:01:00.000-07:00

The new knee with stitches out

The new knee with staples in

May 3rd I received a new knee at John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek. I had a rocky start, but thing have been better since all the meds were corrected and I got home with Malcolm's excellent care. He had to give me shots for blood thinner every day for 20 days and lots of physical therapy to get the range of motion I am glad it is now done and life can move forward. Many wonderful friends and our daughter provided some excellent food for a few days to help us and we are so very grateful. Thank you everyone to came to visit and for the flowers, books and upbeat visitsl

Carson and Mason's sleepover

2011-04-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

We took Carson and Mason for a sleepover while Tyler and Amanda were on their cruise. Stephanie is staying with their children this time. We took them out to dinner for happy meals and ice cream. They ate every bite. We love our little talkative grandsons!

Yellow Roses

2011-04-27T19:34:00.001-07:00

Malcolm has picked several bouquets of our yellow roses too. Our whole house has the scent of roses - love it!

First Rose

2011-04-20T21:37:00.000-07:00

Malcolm picked our first Lincoln rose for me ! It is one of our favorites!

Gram Weston

2011-04-16T09:49:00.000-07:00

Grandma Weston is now recovering from her fall in a skilled nursing facility in Gridley. This is close to us so we can visit every day. She is alert and enjoys visits. We have brought some of her favorite things to wear to lift her spirit. She is eating ice cream in this picture. Friday is ice cream day. She isn't crazy about the food, but otherwise is doing reamarkably well.

Jam Project

2011-04-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

I just make two batches of low sugar jam (our favorite). One is boysenberry/Pomegranate jam and the other is boysenberry/pomegranate/blueberry jam. They taste delicious when you taste more berry than sugar. I have already given away several jars to family and friends.

Flowers

2011-03-28T00:55:00.000-07:00

Spring Flowers

Potted Pansies

Purple Bush

Pansies and Violets

In spite of our hail, rain and wind, I had one good day to plan some Spring flowers and put in some pansies with our violets and dianthus plants. We love the color and sturdy pansies.

Our Children Visiting Gram

2011-03-18T23:24:00.000-07:00

Val and Malcolm

Amanda and Todd

Kathi, Malcolm's Sister

Annette & Mike
Although it is sad that Gram is injured, it is also wonderful to have caring children who come and visit or call and send flowers. We are grateful for their sweet spirits and how much they care about their grandmother

Gram Weston

2011-03-18T22:39:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken just before she fell -

We have had quite a week since last Sunday. Sunday morning, I went with my friend, Marietta to visit Malcolm's Mom and found her on her face on the floor. She had fallen when her walker and TV table got tangled and caused her to fall and hit her face on a wooden footstool. EMT came and took her to the hospital so I called Malcolm and he met her at the hospital and I delivered Marietta to Fairfield and returned to the hospital to meet Malcolm there. His Mom has a fractured C2 vertebrae and was put into cervical collar and on medicine for the pain in her neck. The neurologist said the neck was fractured many months previous to this fall, but apparently this was really a bad fall and a miracle she is ok for now. She was in the hospital for a few days and then transferred to a skilled nursing facility to take care of her until she can recover. Kathi Erick, Lisa and our children, Todd, Val, Mike, Amanda have been here to visit with here. We appreciate the flowers and calls to inquire on her. It has been a tough week for us all, but we are hopeful that all will go well and know she is in God's hands.

Cherish & Joey

2011-03-12T22:19:00.000-08:00

My niece, Cherish just got married to Joey - Congratulations to them and wishes for a wonderful life together!

Gram Weston

2011-03-02T23:28:00.000-08:00

Gram Weston is not feeling too good. We took her to the Dr. Tuesday and she ended up in the hospital. She has legs that are leaking fluid to the outside of her skin and bowels that are not cooperating - her hemoglobin was very low too so they decided to hospitalize her and find out the cause of her troubles. She is not happy about being there, but by today has adjusted to the situation while they do some testing on her. We have had some good visits and a little TLC helps a lot. he looks remarkably good for 92 years. She just shared a birthday dinner and party with Paige because they both have birthdays a few days apart. Everyone keep her in your thoughts

2011-02-24T12:32:00.000-08:00

Our daughters got me a certificate for pedicure and manicure in Yuba City so yesterday I went and had two heavenly hours! Thank you darling daughters for your generosity and for pampering your Mom! The girl took more time with me than she needed to and we had a ball. Here is a picture of the pedicure!

2011-02-24T12:29:00.000-08:00

Our family loves the food at Costa Vida so I experimented with a recipe to make a similar enchilada and it turned out really good. We had it for lunch today. I made it with pork loin roast and a sauce made with green enchilada sauce, garlic, brown sugar and Dr. Pepper topped with cheese and sour cream. Yummy

Window seats and valances

2011-02-21T18:04:00.000-08:00

Malcolm and I got some seating foam, fabric and dacron wrap so I could upholster the cushions in our window seats and enough fabric to make new valances for the three windows in the room. We really like the change and the touch of color it adds to our room. The window seats also have hinged tops so we have additional storage for blankets, pillow, etc.

Valentine Day

2011-02-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

Malcolm got me a beautiful peach rose for Valentine day. I love the vase too. It is such a sweet experience to be remembered by my honey! Thank you, Angel Face - you are loved and so appreciated!

Paige's 7th Birthday

2011-02-16T20:21:00.000-08:00

Paige ordered chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. It was fun and tasted delicious! she is adding the candles !

This is the finished product with us enjoying the time together!

For Paige's 7th birthday, we had her stay overnight, have dinner and bake her cake and decorate it. We had such a good time and we are such buddies. She loves to come over and cook and hang out with us. The next day, we took the cake and some other food and had dinner with her family and Great Grandma Weston whose birthday is the same week. This is now a tradition for them both.

Subway art for Valentine

2011-02-16T20:18:00.000-08:00

In our Relief Society in Liberty Ward we made these subway art projects. We had a black frame and tore up pieces of paper and just glued them on in a haphazard pattern. They turned out quite nice. Thanks to Lisa Hunter for all her work on this project.

Violets

2011-02-16T20:16:00.000-08:00

I was given a start last year on these violets and this year they have spread and blossomed. They have a wonderful fragrance and are a dainty and beautiful addition to our front planter.

2011-02-11T15:01:00.000-08:00

A current Picture of Russell

Malcolm and the Jelly Belly Car

Malcolm and I went to Martinez for some doctor appointments and stopped on our way home at the Jelly Belly factory and had a fun time picking out our favorite flavor of jelly beans. Later we met Russell for dinner at Red Robin's prior to going to Wyatt's wedding reception. We met some old friends and had a nice visit with them during the reception. It was a full day and we were weary when we got home - and crashed!

Window Seats

2011-01-26T20:50:00.000-08:00

We have been wanting to have a window seat near our windows to increase our seating area in our living room for family events and finally contracted a contractor to put them in. We will have storage for blankets and pillow and soon I will cover some foam cushions for comfort seating. We are excited and love the way they turned out!

Knee

2011-01-26T20:47:00.000-08:00

I met with a new doctor today who did a weight bearing xray on my knee which showed the bone on bone area so I'm on the list to have it done sometime.

iphones

2011-01-15T23:01:00.000-08:00

We are trying to keep up with our children, technology wise (not really) We just needed new cell phones so we got a good price and took the plunge. There is quite a learning curve on all the applications, but how fun to be able to read scriptures, bank, read a book, take pictures, email, etc without a huge brief case. It is good for our minds to stretch anyway. We are grateful for all these modern conveniences!

New Years Eve With Grandchildren

2011-01-01T10:01:00.000-08:00

Grandpa joining in the fun with New Years Eve Fun!

Calvin trying to wake up

We had four of our Eccles Grandchildren and Brian and Deb's children for New Year Eve and had a grand time. We ate until we popped (ice cream caramel corn, chips, dips, etc. Then the kids played games and watched movies. The goal was to stay up until midnight. Everyone, except Calvin made it so they blew their horns, popped poppers and yelled until he woke up and joined us. What fun and memories for some of our grandchildren New Years Eve 2010. They just screamed the countdown to 2011!

Our Grandchildren Playing Games Before the New Year Comes In

Paige Blowing Her Horn

Rachel Blowing Her Horn

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-22T22:22:00.000-08:00

Our Snowbaby collection given to us by our children and friends!

Our eight GREAT children!

This message is for all eight of our children! We love you and want you know what a blessing you have brought into our lives. We have just super memories and still are making them. How fun and enriching it has been to watch our little children grow, learn through the challenges and the wonderful times. We love that you all enjoy each other so much and all the antics when you are together! Thank you for the memories, love and teasured moments with each of you. We cannot imagine life without each one of you and the talents and goodness you have brought into our family. We are blessed beyond measure. Love, Mom and Dad

Christmas Decorations

2010-12-11T14:35:00.000-08:00

Our old tree gave up so we got a new slimmer tree to fit our home. We love it. It has its own pot and is very nice. You can click on the pictures to see the details.

This is the Grandkids corner with all of our snowmen. I love it too! They all light up and change colors. The little white snowman have the name of each of our children and us - a gift from Brian and Deb in a past Christmas!

We have our traditional Christmas Village up and lighted between our kitchen and dining room. We really enjoy this display with nativities at each end.

Tree Planting at the Depot

2010-12-10T11:16:00.000-08:00

Malcolm has been working with the Sacramento Tree Foundation to beautify our city. This day he was assisting with planting live oak trees at the newly refurbished train depot. It has turned out so nice and will be a very nice addition. The trees will add a needed softness and emphasize the name of our city - Live Oak

Malcolm and Live Oak City Council

2010-12-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

Malcolm's final remarks!

Malcolm finished his term on the Live Oak City Council last evening and new council members were sworn in. I am so glad Malcolm was able to serve for the past 18 months with his background in flood control, working with the school on tree planting and other areas, he has been a wonderful asset to the city. We both have enjoyed our association with all the city staff, council, and family members who attend council meetings. We live in a great little city with a rosy future and good things are happening!

Christmas Food Court Flash Mob, Hallelujah Chorus - Must See!

2010-12-02T13:21:00.000-08:00

Grandkids and Thanksgiving

2010-11-27T00:44:00.001-08:00

Kylie and Paige are such great friends and had a joyous time together

Dan's youngest son, Grant was enjoying the last drops of 7-up!

Our computer whiz kids grandchildren found a place in our hall to sit down and play games together - These grandchildren had two days of just having fun and enjoying each other. We love to watch and listen to their enthusiasm! We had five of our children with us...Amanda & Tyler, Dan & Kristina, Mike & Annette, Val and Don, and Brian and Deb with all their children- a total of 14 children. Wednesday evening we had a spaghetti dinner with Dan's, Amanda's and Brian's families. Next morning we all gathered for French toast, bacon and orange juice. Fortunately, everyone helped with dinner and we had turkey and the works. Tyler did mashed potatoes, Mike did snacks, Val did rolls and everyone pitched in to put it all together. Malcolm and I did the turkey & dressing and the day before pies were made. Great day! Thanks to all of our children who came. We also got a wonderful call from Todd. We are so grateful for all of our children and grandchildren and the joy they bring us. They are doing a great work with their families. How blessed we have been this year. Thanks to our Heavenly Father for all we have and greatly appreciate!!

Our last harvest of the season

2010-11-27T00:41:00.000-08:00

We have had such fun and success with our garden this year. This picture is the last of our produce ...squash, cauliflower, peppers and our first mandarin oranges. Everything is so delicious

Planting Trees at School

2010-11-17T22:42:00.000-08:00

Malcolm has been working with a committee to plant trees at the elementary school that Kael attends. Malcolm met with a tree foundation in Sacramento and helped make arrangements with the school for planting many trees around the school. They got the classes involved too and had a great adventurel! Amanda went over too and got some pictures. Aren't they cute!

Memories of children and grandchildren

2010-11-06T00:40:00.000-07:00

I could not resist sharing this cute Family Cartoon. It reminds me of our children and grandchildren when we were trying to discipline. I spent a bit of time on the phone so this made me chuckle!

2010-10-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

Most of the time a legend is decreed after one passes on. However, we know that Patsy is a living legend! Just south of Live Oak she is honored with a permanent monument to her greatness. I could say that I used my influence as a city councilperson, but I won't! There is a story here, but for now, enjoy!!

2010-10-14T22:02:00.000-07:00

We just spent a couple of busy and fun days going to Apple Hill. We decided to do the trip in two days so we made reservations at a wonderfully nice hotel as well. I felt pampered. We invited our friend Mary McCormick to go with us and she was delighted to join us. We drove up early Wednesday morning and were there when everything opened up. We have a favorite place to buy apples and did our purchase there first, then went to High Hill Ranch and looked at all the shops - especially the Chocolate Factory - yummy. We have a tradition that we each get our own favorites! Then we went on a tour of the rest of the many apple farms and stopped at the one below because of the beautiful display of flowers. After our Apple Hill tour, we stopped in Placerville and had lunch and looked in some shops, stopped at the Hotel and checked in, then had dinner at the Spaghetti Factory. We had a leisure ride home! Nice Get-away!

There were just an amazing array of flowers of all colors!

We so enjoyed seeing all the flowers and wondered about how hard it was to get them all watered.

More of the beautiful selections of flowers

This shop had wooden boys with hoses attached to water your yard - very cute

We stopped at the temple so we could see it all lit up at night - What a glorious sight!

Conference Breakfast Cake Tradition

2010-10-03T13:06:00.000-07:00

Our breakfast cake baked just a few minutes ago - yummy!

My original 45 year old recipe ( pretty worn and old now) for crunchy coffee cake

For 45 years I have been baking this wonderfully delicious cake during conference sessions on Sunday in October and April. We all love it and some of our children have adopted the same tradition. I found the recipe in the bottom of a pan I purchased when we were first married and did not have many recipe books -
It has been a a fun and memorable time every time I bake it!

McCormick's Cabin

2010-10-02T23:02:00.000-07:00

Malcolm and Jack

Mary and Patsy

Wonderful waterfall

Malcolm got up early and got this shot of the mountain at sunrise

Another of Malcolm's great pictures of the trees, mountain and sunrise

Sunrise

One of the many lakes in the area

A picture of the trees looking down the mountain

We just spent 3 days with our friends the McCormick's in the mountains about 2 1/2 hours from home. We just rested, had dinner at some wonderful resorts and had a memorable time visiting with our good friends.One day, Jack and Malcolm went exploring at the lakes and interesting points of interest. My only problem was being carsick going and coming on the winding roads but it was still such a terrific few days that it was worth it all. Their cabin has two bedrooms, 2 baths and a large great room with kitchen and lots of windows to see the gorgeous scenery of trees, birds and peace!

Two Wolves

2010-09-20T01:15:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite stories and many people have asked for a copy so I am sharing it on our blog:

One evening and old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.He said, "my son, a battle is going on inside of all of us; One wolf is evil--he is fear, anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self pit, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, competition, superiority, and ego. The other is good--he is joy, peace, love, hope, sharing, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, friendship, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith. The grandson thought about it for a minute, and then asked his grandfather, "Which wolf will win? The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed

Our friendly flamingos

2010-09-13T22:49:00.000-07:00

We came home from an outing and found these dolled up flamingos in our front yard. We had some idea of who was thinking of us - either the Fawson's or Robert Tripplett. Bob, Robert and Randy were on their way up to Chico for an outing and decided to visit our yard and treat us to the flamingo! We laughed ourselves silly. So great to have wonderful friends with great sense of humor! We feel blessed!

My Office

2010-09-13T22:45:00.000-07:00

I relocated a bookcase this week to better organize book, binders, DVD, movies and other things that were stashed and not handy. Now I know where everything is and enjoy the organization.

Projects

2010-09-02T18:49:00.001-07:00

We needed a partial curtain for our front door window so I did a little creative sewing and am happy with the results. It gives us a bit more privacy and filters the sun in the afternoon.

Just finished canning and dehydrating lots of pears - 3 boxes and the are yummy!

Getting ready for fall with a new table runner and a pumpkin

Eric Whitacker virtual Choir

2010-09-01T17:31:00.001-07:00

This is a facinating rendition - enjoy

Ten Axioms to Guide Your Life

2010-08-23T12:11:00.000-07:00

I found this very interesting helpful article from Robert D. Hales and thought I would share the essence of it:

1. It's not the obstacle that counts, but how you overcome it.
2. Pursue your goals with all your heart, might, mind and strength. You are doomed to failure if you pursue them in a vacillating manner.
3. From a tiny spark can come a large fire.
4. Our greatest strengths can become our greatest weaknesses.
5. Failure is one of the greatest teachers if we have the faith to learn from it.
6. It is not how you start the race or where you are during the race. It is how you cross the finish line that matters.
7. If you wish to get rich, save what you get. A fool can earn money; but it takes a wise man to save and dispose of it to his own advantage.
8. You cannot learn the Lord's will without exercising your agency and becoming accountable for your decisions.
9. The more things change, the more they stay the same.
10. The temple of God is the greatest university.
Robert D. Hales, Ensign, Feb. 2007

Tyler

2010-08-22T01:12:00.000-07:00

Our son-in-law, Tyler has been in the hospital for several days with an infection stemming from an appendix operation. He has really struggled with the combination of medications given him and developed pneumonia as well. This certainly gives us a moment to pause and be thankful for our health and try to be positive when challenges come, as they most certainly will. We are thankful for blessings and prayers and help of family and friends in their behalf. It has been our privilege to help with their children and are grateful for the opportunity to be there for them so Amanda can spend some time with her hubby at the hospital.

Garden

2010-08-08T21:37:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying our garden with green beans, tomatoes, peppers, zucchini & plums. Today we had a vegetable medley (peeled tomatoes , cucumbers, green peppers and onions cut to bite size and poured good seasons Italian dressing over with salt and pepper and stirred ) It was easy and very tasty. Of course there is nothing finer than fresh green beans, cooked and seasoned with salt and pepper and butter. Yummy! I made jam with the plums.

Bear Quilt

2010-08-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

When I came home, Amanda brought in this beautifully quilted bear quilt Udell Smith made for me. It is gorgeous lavender color with hand stitching all over. She is an expert quilter! She has made hundreds of quilts and never thought I would be a recipient of one! I love it. Thank you Udell! What a delightful - another surprise!!

Udell stitched my initials on the purse of the bear - what a darling quilt!

A's Ballgame

2010-08-06T12:29:00.001-07:00

Todd got tickets for an A's baseball game for the Monday after my party. Todd & Billie, Andrew and Sarah Kathi & Erik, Brian Deb,Rachel & Matt and Jon Malcolm and I went. It was a perfect evening and an exciting game. We all ate the ballgame food and loved it! The game began at 7 PM and we got home about 1 AM

The kid's having a blast and enjoying the spirit of baseball

This was Jon's first major league game so he was thrilled and took home a green ball, hat and a big foam finger!

Jon and Gram

Rachel and Gramp

My 70th Birthday

2010-08-05T01:32:00.001-07:00

It is not often that I am surprised, but Malcolm began many months ago to plan this party of our family for my 70th birthday! He really pulled if off with class and lots of family, fun and with the help of Amanda and Deb and my Sister planned the food and reserved the cultural hall at our Church so we would have room for our very large family group. How blessed I am and so love all of these special people in my life! This first picture is my first realization that there are a lot of people at our home. We had been on a vacation on the North Coast - Malcolm's plan to get me away so the girls could arrange the party. It has been a double fun weekend!

It has finally set in that there is a celebration!

Finally, I am overwhelmed at the magnitude of what is happening!

My wonderful Family organized a surprise 70th birthday party for me on my 70th birthday. All of our children, most of our grandchildren, My Sister, Linda, Brother Steve and Malcolm's Mom, Sister and nephew were all there. We had a huge family reunion together. When Malcolm and I returned from a trip to the North Coast I was met with his sign and family as the garage door opened!!! I was shocked and delighted!

Most of our grandchildren were with us on this glorious day!

Malcolm and I with our children and their spouses.
Val and Don, Dan and Kris, Russ, Trent and Amy, Todd and Billie, Amanda and Tyler, Brian and Deb, Michael and Annette, Malcolm and Patsy

Our eight children
Back row: Dan, Russell, Michael, Todd and Brian
Front row: Amy, Amanda and Valerie

Kathi, Malcolm and Mom

My Brother Steve and some of his children

Malcolm's Sister Kathi and Son, Erik and Malcolm's Mom, Elizabeth

My Sister Linda, Brother Steve and Me

Todd and Billie's Family

Val & Don'sFamily

Mike and Annette's Family

Brian and Deb's Family

Russell

Dan and Kris' Family

Amanda and Tyler's Family

Amy and Trent's Family

Northcoast Trip

2010-08-05T01:05:00.001-07:00

Malcolm planned a glorious and peaceful vacation to the coast for us. Our first stop was Eureka where we used to live for a few years We stopped and visited with some neighbors who were surprised and delighted to see us. We drove around and stopped at one of our favorite places to eat, the Samoa Cookhouse near the beach. They have family style food which is delicious and make their own bread. We had ham and fried chicken. They offer a different menu each day. It was yummy! Then we drove to Ferndale and walked to all the fun shops and looked at the colorful Victorian homes. We drove a little further South bought some cheese and French bread for lunch then down to the Redwoods for pictures and shopping. Malcolm gave me an open budget so I found some treasures from the area. We enjoyed driving through all the forests and took pictures and finally drove home. We got lots of sleep and just enjoyed being together!! Thank you to my honey of a husband for a terrific few days!!!

Redwood Grove of Trees. It was so peaceful and beautiful. We never tire of going there and appreciating the great beauty of these magnificent trees

Victorian Inn in Ferndale. We plan to spend some time there next time we are up North. It is just beautiful and historic. We shopped in this quaint little village and bought some treasures to bring home

Malcolm shot this amazing view of a Redwood tree

We went to the Redwoods and took picture of each of us at the Founder's tree - one of the largest trees in the Redwood forest. It is an awesome sight

Malcolm at the Founder's tree monument

Patsy with Fisherman Statue

Malcolm with the Fisherman Statue dedicated to fisherman lost at sea in Eureka

Carson Mansion in Eureka - historic home

Happy Birthday Andrew!!

2010-07-25T17:21:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Andrew. We love you and hope you had a fantastic birthday!

With Sarah and Brittany at a summer outing

Andrew and his boy cousins at a family reunion

Andrew with Sarah, Billie and Courtney

Handsome Dude, Andrew at Graduation

Ball game

Having a great time with Dad

24th of July

2010-07-25T16:19:00.000-07:00

OH! How cute they are...Val and Jon

A fun shot with Jon and Gramp and their big eyes!

Jon and Grandpa!

Val, Don, Nicole and Jon gave us an unexpected and fun visit on the 24th so we invited them to join us at the 4th barbecue and had so much fun and a delicious meal at the Liberty Pavilian

Jon and I shared some very yummy cotton candy!

Nicole 's cotton candy - she's lovin it too!

......and Val shared some with Jon too!

Happy Birthday Amanda!

2010-07-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

From Little baby Amanda to....

This lovely young woman!
We wish our darling daughter, Amanda a wonderful new year! She is a gifted young woman and a great mother and wife to her family! We are so happy to live so near and love her dearly!!

Pageant of the Masters

2010-07-18T01:07:00.000-07:00

This is a huge picture advertising the Pageant outside the entrance to the theater - This years theme is Eat, Drink and be Merry. Every year there is a different theme and different art works. The finale is always the Last Supper which is just marvelous! My descriptions don't do the production justice.

A picture showing some of the costumes and make up on the actors

I love cups so Malcolm bought me a cup with a copy of one of the paintings on it.

Mike and Annette who invited us and got tickets months in advance to attend. Also took us to dinner. Thanks to them for a wonderful adventure at the Pageant!

Malcolm and Patsy inside the art display area

Some of the unusual and interesting art

Malcolm and I spent the morning at the beach with beautiful skies and wonderful temperatures

A great shot of my Honey having some lemonade at Ruby's at the end of the pier
Malcolm and I drove to Laguna Beach to See the Pageant of the Masters - an amazing production which features great works of art and has real people made up, designed, painted, etc to replicate the real piece of art. A backdrop is used and special lighting. Also a very interesting and humorous narrator tells the story and history of the art piece. It is so incredible and interesting to see. We could not take pictures inside, but we also viewed work of some artist from the area in paintings, pottery, jewelry and other forms. We spent hours just viewing all the very funny, beautiful and crazy ideas that gifted people put together.

Paige's Sleep-over

2010-07-10T23:01:00.000-07:00

We made a tooth fairy pillow for Paige's loose 2 front teeth

Popcorn and a new video

Paige's favorite night shirt is my pink T-shirt pinned back to fit her

Our pies and cookies

We had what Paige calls a "sleep over" yesterday and today with our little Paige. She felt it was her turn to have some special attention. We did it all...popcorn, movies, rootbeer floats, stories read, etc. We even made pie and cookies which she helped with and today went to the store and did some shopping We picked veggies from the garden and she has mastered popping the ends off green beans. Our last project was to make a tooth fairy pillow for her front teeth which are really loose. We had so much fun!!

4th Celebration

2010-07-04T23:12:00.000-07:00

Mal and Todd got two ladders to set off the fireworks so they would be up higher

Our neighbor, Todd did the fireworks lighting

Some of the fireworks!

Every year a few of our neighborhood get together and set off some fireworks. This year our neighbors, Roxanne, Todd and Sean got some spectacular fireworks and we spent about half an hour watching some colorful sprays of color and sound. We are blessed with just great families on our street and enjoying getting together for these special events! We are grateful.

This poem is a reminder of all we have....

2010-07-03T00:25:00.000-07:00

If tomorrow all the things were gone
I'd worked for all my life,
And I had to start again
with just my children and my wife,
I'd thank my lucky stars
to be living here today,
'Cause the flag still stands for freedom
and they can't take that away.

I'm proud to be an American
where at least I know I'm free,
And I won't forget the men who died
who gave that right to me,
And I gladly stand up next to you
and defend her still today,
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.

From the lakes of Minnesota
to the hills of Tennessee,
Across the plains of Texas
from sea to shining sea.
From Detroit down to Houston
and New York to L.A.,
There's pride in every American heart
and it's time we stand and say

~ Midi: "God Bless The USA ~

Each day I live, I am grateful for living in this wonderful free land, despite all the challenges we are faced with. We have opportunities that most do not have and can worship as we wish and dream to become anything we desire if we work and pray for success. What a blessing to live in America!!

Sunday

2010-06-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

Matt ready for Church today!

Matt and Adon building a fort in the sewing room

Matt and Grandpa getting ready for Church

Adon and Matt discovered a top and played forever with it.

Today was Adon's day with Matt. We brought him home from church, had dinner, then they played, read, built a blanket fort, snacked and watched a couple of BYU programs....then snack again! Boys have bottomless tummies! Loving it all!

Matt is with us this week!

2010-06-26T14:36:00.001-07:00

Adon, Matt & Calvin playing a handheld video game
We have Matt this week so he can spend some time with us and his cousins who he dearly loves! They have such a good time together and do so well. They seems to be able to find or make up things to do. Matt brought his guitar and a game which he shares with the boys. We have gone to the park, the water park, out for pizza and just generally have a good time together.

Matt at the Water Park

Calvin and Matt at the Water slide

All the boys swimming at the pool

Amanda with Carson and Mason at the pool

Matt and Kael watching a movie and having a snack at bedtime

Matt and Kael having dessert

A puzzle I have been working on for several weeks and finally finished at 3:30 Am this morning. I have been working on this while the boys are busy with games.

Grandkids

2010-06-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

Today We spent part of the day with Amanda and Tyler's children while Amanda had some dental work done and tried to sleep off the sedative. I took Carson and Paige home for a little while to do some chores and took this picture of them on our front bench. The kids were so good. We had lunch together, then put Mason down for a nap. Then everyone just did what they wanted for a little while. Nice peaceful day!

Happy Father's Day, Malcolm, Dad, Grandpa!!

2010-06-21T00:33:00.000-07:00

Paige and Grandpa having a well deserved rest

Kael, Lindsay and Gram talking about baseball

Mason Enjoying a 3D story book with his glasses

Adon, just looking sweet

We pampered Malcolm for Father's Day. I gave him a basket filled with goodies that are yummy and good for him and fixed one of his favorite dinners and cream cheese cherry pie. I picked up his Mom and Amanda and Lindsay, and some of our grandchildren came over (Tyler just left for boy scout camp)and had dinner with us. Amanda fixed a very clever frame with a picture of her children for Dad. Then we just relaxed and visited all afternoon while Dad received calls from our Children wishing him a Happy Father's Day. I hope your day was special, AF!! Much love from your wife and family!!!

Rock, Paper Scissors

2010-06-10T21:23:00.000-07:00

We had quite a chuckle watching Mason play rock, paper scissors with Amanda when they stopped by our home this morning. He is just so cute and has his own twist on accomplishing a new thing - enjoy: