For those who are also collecting baby stuff there are a few deal-a-day websites that have saved us some money and we enjoy:
Babysteals
Mamabargains
Greenbabybargains
Tottlers
Mockstarbaby (Better if you have a boy toddler age, but still good to keep track of)
good luck!! Hope it is helpful.
Tuesday
Memorial Day Weekend
Once again, I forgot the camera, so we have to get those added later. It really was sitting on the kitchen chair waiting to go.
We had a great weekend...thanks to Craig Bitton who told Ty that there are no real car shoppers on Memorial Day weekend. His words about staying open for the weekend were "a waste of time." That was all it took. We both were ready for a break from the long work days (for Tyson) and rushing around. We loved LaPlatta. Saturday night, when everyone got up there, was a blast. Price/Hirst's made their famous dutch oven chicken and potatoes. We just had fun with good food and better friends. Sunday Jared spoiled us with an amazing breakfast and the boys went to be tuff in their trucks. Chopper was not ok being left and kept trying to run after them even 10 mins later so we sat in the tent and read. It was very rainy and it kept scaring Chopper, but it was so nice just to chill.
Monday was so relaxing, even though we got next to nothing done except going to Trav's. I can't believe how big Chuck and Becky's boys are. So adoreable. I just loved Andrew's chubby legs!! Once again, it was a blast just to hang out and catch up with people we hadn't seen in a while.
It had an interseting thought. Bangeter was at Trav's and was talking about being a parent. He said he was excited for us and I mentioned something about yes it was exciting...and SCARY. He laughed and started talking about his family, particularly his daughter. After we finished I couldn't help but hope that I don't let fear keep me from doing things. This is something that I think about from time to time. I know I used to let it stop me a lot but considering where I'm at...Married (commitment), knocked up (family - both fears I have had), and what I have done, particularly since I met Tyson such as the trips we took, the places we went, the things I have tried etc. I think I'm doing better. I still hope that I don't let fear ever get the better of me.
I'm so glad that AnnMarie will have Tyson to teach her not to hold back on life experiences because of fear. There is so much out there to miss.
We had a great weekend...thanks to Craig Bitton who told Ty that there are no real car shoppers on Memorial Day weekend. His words about staying open for the weekend were "a waste of time." That was all it took. We both were ready for a break from the long work days (for Tyson) and rushing around. We loved LaPlatta. Saturday night, when everyone got up there, was a blast. Price/Hirst's made their famous dutch oven chicken and potatoes. We just had fun with good food and better friends. Sunday Jared spoiled us with an amazing breakfast and the boys went to be tuff in their trucks. Chopper was not ok being left and kept trying to run after them even 10 mins later so we sat in the tent and read. It was very rainy and it kept scaring Chopper, but it was so nice just to chill.
Monday was so relaxing, even though we got next to nothing done except going to Trav's. I can't believe how big Chuck and Becky's boys are. So adoreable. I just loved Andrew's chubby legs!! Once again, it was a blast just to hang out and catch up with people we hadn't seen in a while.
It had an interseting thought. Bangeter was at Trav's and was talking about being a parent. He said he was excited for us and I mentioned something about yes it was exciting...and SCARY. He laughed and started talking about his family, particularly his daughter. After we finished I couldn't help but hope that I don't let fear keep me from doing things. This is something that I think about from time to time. I know I used to let it stop me a lot but considering where I'm at...Married (commitment), knocked up (family - both fears I have had), and what I have done, particularly since I met Tyson such as the trips we took, the places we went, the things I have tried etc. I think I'm doing better. I still hope that I don't let fear ever get the better of me.
I'm so glad that AnnMarie will have Tyson to teach her not to hold back on life experiences because of fear. There is so much out there to miss.
Thursday
Tired boys and a Shed
I have had some pretty tired boys lately. After I drag myself out of bed and start getting ready I come back into the room to find my place has been occupied and neither of them can quite get their heads up to say bye...although Chopper usually at least opens his eyes. I can't help but understand though with all the work that they do...and last night was a big night!
Although I have always known that I have to share my spot in Ty's heart with Chopper and now AnnMarie and new item has taken up some of my room...that's right, it's big, light colored, heavy, has ample storage inside and Ty and his friends and family moved it into my backyard last night. Vern was so sweet to give us his shed when he moved, but I really didn't expect to find Ty sitting out next to it after midnight and hear about how wonderful it was all night long. I guess I'll have to live with sharing Ty's love with an object. It's fun to see him so excited though!!! :) And as he says: "I'm sorry that we have to have to the biggest shed on the block, but that's just more room for camping stuff." ;)
Although I have always known that I have to share my spot in Ty's heart with Chopper and now AnnMarie and new item has taken up some of my room...that's right, it's big, light colored, heavy, has ample storage inside and Ty and his friends and family moved it into my backyard last night. Vern was so sweet to give us his shed when he moved, but I really didn't expect to find Ty sitting out next to it after midnight and hear about how wonderful it was all night long. I guess I'll have to live with sharing Ty's love with an object. It's fun to see him so excited though!!! :) And as he says: "I'm sorry that we have to have to the biggest shed on the block, but that's just more room for camping stuff." ;)
Saturday
Monday
Earl
For those of you who may have known my Grandpa Earl or heard me brag about my hero, he passed away peacefully last night in a care center in Bountiful. He was 89 years old and just had an amazing outlook on life and had much to teach those around.
Love ya Grandpa!! You will be missed.
Love ya Grandpa!! You will be missed.
Thursday
AnnMarie is a rocker!
I have discovered that AnnMarie always wakes up and moves around when Xavier Rudd is playing. I noticed it when we put the CD into one the of the cars I drive sometimes. At first is was just one song in particular - "Land Rights"...below, but now every time he comes on at all she moves. I have many playlists at work that I listen to including the one linked to this site. Each of them includes Xavier Rudd as he is one of my favorites. It doesn't matter the time of day or what I am doing she always moves around when he comes on. We discussed that she probably loves the digereedoo and the vibrations.
We have been taking her to as many concerts as we can. She reacts to the music each time...Donavan Frankenreiter, Brett Dennen, and last night to Michael Franti. Unfortunately after last weekend we decided it was best if I didn't go, but Tyson went and called me so I could hear some of my favorites. I shared with AnnMarie by holding the phone to my belly. She seemed to love Cherine Anderson's remake of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song," and of course who couldn't love Michael Franti. I can just feel her dancing around. Last night would have been her third Michael Franti show. Before she was big enough to feel we took her to 2 others.
I guess it runs in the family...she is already taking after Tyson in her love of music.
We have been taking her to as many concerts as we can. She reacts to the music each time...Donavan Frankenreiter, Brett Dennen, and last night to Michael Franti. Unfortunately after last weekend we decided it was best if I didn't go, but Tyson went and called me so I could hear some of my favorites. I shared with AnnMarie by holding the phone to my belly. She seemed to love Cherine Anderson's remake of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song," and of course who couldn't love Michael Franti. I can just feel her dancing around. Last night would have been her third Michael Franti show. Before she was big enough to feel we took her to 2 others.
I guess it runs in the family...she is already taking after Tyson in her love of music.
Tuesday
The "Toad" that got away
Lately we have taken some time to get out into nature with the fishing poles.
About 6 weeks ago Tyson's dad called giddy about his day fishing at Bear Lake. He had just reeled in a 14 pound cutthroat. Yes, 14 pound trout. Of course, our plans changed and we headed up there after work Saturday and spent Sunday on the lake. I was beautiful and we ended up with some really nice fish...although none quite like that. In fact, if Wes hadn't caught a lake trout the same size I might have called fish story on Mike, but there it was.
Two weeks ago we headed up the canyon from Challis, ID for 5 days of Steelhead fishing. Last year Tyson allowed me to tag along on this fishing trip with his Dad and brother. I think the only reason I was invited back this year was because they didn't have to eat hot dogs the whole time. For whatever the reason, I really loved it both years. Last year I caught one more than Ty. This year one less...but I will argue that because of my big belly weight pressing on my feet I also didn't fish as much as Tyson and if I had I would have once again out-fished my husband. It was so nice to be up there on the beautiful Salmon river. I took a couple books and finished two that I had been reading. I loved Edgar Sawtelle...but it has a plot very similar to Hamlet so be warned if you plan to pick it up.
Mike's friend Terry was up there too and was so sweet to take me under his wing and show me a few fishing tips. He is a great fisher, and a great teacher!! One tip he had was a secret spot he fishes from. When I dropped the jig in the water a huge fish took it. I mean huge!! Tyson said it was bigger than any Steelhead he has seen. For those of you, like myself, who don't know a big fish is referred to as a "toad." My toad unfortunately was a little upset by the hook, understandably, and jumped out of the water twisting and turning and running the line out. He was a smart old fish, and he twisted the hook right out of his mouth. :( In the end, I did hook the biggest fish, but didn't get it to the shore so I can't technically say I outfished Tyson this year, but the five of us that were there know the truth.
On a side note: a) we left our camera sitting on the table at home so until I borrow Mike's I can't show off our pictures. b) As we visited my grandpa last Sunday he informed us that he cannot remember a time that his wife did not out-fish him. Then again, I do have her middle name...Marie. AnnMarie also was given that name so Tyson may just have to get used to the idea of his wife and soon daughter out-fishing him. :)
Ode to my Toad...and a future fisher
The Fish
By Elizabeth Bishop
I caught a tremendous fishand held him beside the boat
half out of water, with my hook
fast in a corner of his mouth.
He didn't fight.
He hadn't fought at all.
He hung a grunting weight,
battered and venerable
and homely. Here and there
his brown skin hung in strips
like ancient wallpaper,
and its pattern of darker brown
was like wallpaper:
shapes like full-blown roses
stained and lost through age.
He was speckled and barnacles,
fine rosettes of lime,
and infested
with tiny white sea-lice,
and underneath two or three
rags of green weed hung down.
While his gills were breathing in
the terrible oxygen
--the frightening gills,
fresh and crisp with blood,
that can cut so badly--
I thought of the coarse white flesh
packed in like feathers,
the big bones and the little bones,
the dramatic reds and blacks
of his shiny entrails,
and the pink swim-bladder
like a big peony.
I looked into his eyes
which were far larger than mine
but shallower, and yellowed,
the irises backed and packed
with tarnished tinfoil
seen through the lenses
of old scratched isinglass.
They shifted a little, but not
to return my stare.
--It was more like the tipping
of an object toward the light.
I admired his sullen face,
the mechanism of his jaw,
and then I saw
that from his lower lip
--if you could call it a lip
grim, wet, and weaponlike,
hung five old pieces of fish-line,
or four and a wire leader
with the swivel still attached,
with all their five big hooks
grown firmly in his mouth.
A green line, frayed at the end
where he broke it, two heavier lines,
and a fine black thread
still crimped from the strain and snap
when it broke and he got away.
Like medals with their ribbons
frayed and wavering,
a five-haired beard of wisdom
trailing from his aching jaw.
I stared and stared
and victory filled up
the little rented boat,
from the pool of bilge
where oil had spread a rainbow
around the rusted engine
to the bailer rusted orange,
the sun-cracked thwarts,
the oarlocks on their strings,
the gunnels--until everything
was rainbow, rainbow, rainbow!
And I let the fish go.
Monday
100% Perfect
Just a quick update on us...AnnMarie was given a "100% Perfect" bill of health at her perinatal ultrasound. We were relieved by that. After seeing her deal with the nurse and doctor poking at her with the ultrasound we decided that she takes after Dad (and maybe Mom, but only a tiny bit) as she is stubborn. She would not turn how the doctors wanted her to even after I got up and walked around.
Other than that we are working hard...especially Tyson. He works 60+ hours a week at the car lot and I am very proud of him and the growth he is bringing along there. I'm not surprised though, he is so smart!!! I'll be glad when we are big enough to hire someone else and give him a much deserved break. Also, we are working to get our basement done so we can rearrange and create the nursery. It's all very exciting and very tiring.
We are taking a short break to go Steelhead fishing in Idaho this weekend. Both of us are so excited we can barely wait. I think Tyson is starting to get resigned to the fact that his wife out-fishes him...(last year I caught one more than his big whopping zero, but we had a blast!!) however, I also cook better so Mike and Justin wouldn't hear of me being left behind. :) We'll let you know how that turns out.
AnnMarie's little foot...she had had it with the ultrasound!
Other than that we are working hard...especially Tyson. He works 60+ hours a week at the car lot and I am very proud of him and the growth he is bringing along there. I'm not surprised though, he is so smart!!! I'll be glad when we are big enough to hire someone else and give him a much deserved break. Also, we are working to get our basement done so we can rearrange and create the nursery. It's all very exciting and very tiring.
We are taking a short break to go Steelhead fishing in Idaho this weekend. Both of us are so excited we can barely wait. I think Tyson is starting to get resigned to the fact that his wife out-fishes him...(last year I caught one more than his big whopping zero, but we had a blast!!) however, I also cook better so Mike and Justin wouldn't hear of me being left behind. :) We'll let you know how that turns out.
AnnMarie's little foot...she had had it with the ultrasound!Thursday
Monday
Tuesday
Tyson!!
Man Tag....
I'm stealing this from Marisa, I've never done a "tribute" to Tyson. So, here goes:
1. Where did you meet your husband? At the Depot during a Unwritten Law concert. I actually walked right up to him during the opening band when no one was watching but him and some friends. Of course, then I chickened out and found myself standing inches away from a stranger in the middle of an empty floor...lucky me he started a conversation with me.
2. How long have you been married? Three months
3. What does he do that surprises you? Just when I think I fully know how lucky I am to have him, I am surprised to realize he is more incredible than I thought. He is always surprising me with little things.
4. What's your favorite feature of his? Have you seen him...there's no way to pick a favorite!! He's what any girl would dream of.
5. What is his best quality? I can't just pick one, but I love how smart he is, how nice he is (but if he asks, I said he was mean. You know, he can't lose the tough guy persona), how strong he is, and just all around a good guy.
6. Does he have a nickname for you? Actually buns...ask him.
7. What is his favorite food? Favorite? I don't know if he has a favorite, but he likes Tuna casserole, stuffed pork chops, Alfredo, and Brats and Potato bake.
9. When and where did you first kiss? um, at the Depot at a concert.
10.What's your favorite thing to do as a couple? Going to concerts, four wheeling, camping, snowmobiling, hiking, playing with the dog
11.Do you have any kids? Soon.
12.Does he have any hidden talents? What can't he do.
13.How old is he? 30
14.Who said I love you first? I did, but I think we were both thinking it.
15.What is his favorite music? Good stuff. Lately we listen to a lot of Brett Dennen, John Butler Trio (as always), Michael Franti, and Amos Lee
16.What do you admire most about him? Everything. I can truly say he is everything I would want it a husband, friend, person and soon a Father.
17.What is his favorite color? Camo and bright orange :)
18.Will he read this? Him, on a blog? Not likely.
I'm stealing this from Marisa, I've never done a "tribute" to Tyson. So, here goes:
1. Where did you meet your husband? At the Depot during a Unwritten Law concert. I actually walked right up to him during the opening band when no one was watching but him and some friends. Of course, then I chickened out and found myself standing inches away from a stranger in the middle of an empty floor...lucky me he started a conversation with me.
2. How long have you been married? Three months
3. What does he do that surprises you? Just when I think I fully know how lucky I am to have him, I am surprised to realize he is more incredible than I thought. He is always surprising me with little things.
4. What's your favorite feature of his? Have you seen him...there's no way to pick a favorite!! He's what any girl would dream of.
5. What is his best quality? I can't just pick one, but I love how smart he is, how nice he is (but if he asks, I said he was mean. You know, he can't lose the tough guy persona), how strong he is, and just all around a good guy.
6. Does he have a nickname for you? Actually buns...ask him.
7. What is his favorite food? Favorite? I don't know if he has a favorite, but he likes Tuna casserole, stuffed pork chops, Alfredo, and Brats and Potato bake.
9. When and where did you first kiss? um, at the Depot at a concert.
10.What's your favorite thing to do as a couple? Going to concerts, four wheeling, camping, snowmobiling, hiking, playing with the dog
11.Do you have any kids? Soon.
12.Does he have any hidden talents? What can't he do.
13.How old is he? 30
14.Who said I love you first? I did, but I think we were both thinking it.
15.What is his favorite music? Good stuff. Lately we listen to a lot of Brett Dennen, John Butler Trio (as always), Michael Franti, and Amos Lee
16.What do you admire most about him? Everything. I can truly say he is everything I would want it a husband, friend, person and soon a Father.
17.What is his favorite color? Camo and bright orange :)
18.Will he read this? Him, on a blog? Not likely.
Monday
Happy New Years.
What a year! I think I’m glad it’s over and to be moving on, but there have been so many amazing things happen this year. Here’s an abbreviated list (Make note of the last item…the highlight of our year I think!!)
• Tyson and I didn’t kill each other after moving in last Dec. I think we enjoy each other’s company even more now than then.
• Tyson took me on my first snowmobiling trips. Something we look forward to repeating this year!
• We saw many amazing concerts. Topping the list were Xavier Rudd and Michael Franti both at the Depot.
• We picked up a four wheeler and a Pitster and spent some fun hours riding around above Bear Lake…and at Arla’s cabin.
• Chopper learned that he is a tease!! If we are both there he will blatantly refuse to listen to Tyson until I repeat the command. Then he is all too happy to comply with the request.
• We both got new jobs…Applegate and Summit View Auto Sales.
• I think there were only two maybe three weekends this summer we were actually home.
• We spent a lot of fun times with family and friends in a variety of places.
• We officially united our family at a beautiful little marriage ceremony at Bear Lake.
• Christmas Eve we were able to see our baby’s heart beat for the first time…giving us something to look forward to August 11, 2009 when we get to meet the baby.
• Tyson and I didn’t kill each other after moving in last Dec. I think we enjoy each other’s company even more now than then.
• Tyson took me on my first snowmobiling trips. Something we look forward to repeating this year!
• We saw many amazing concerts. Topping the list were Xavier Rudd and Michael Franti both at the Depot.
• We picked up a four wheeler and a Pitster and spent some fun hours riding around above Bear Lake…and at Arla’s cabin.
• Chopper learned that he is a tease!! If we are both there he will blatantly refuse to listen to Tyson until I repeat the command. Then he is all too happy to comply with the request.
• We both got new jobs…Applegate and Summit View Auto Sales.
• I think there were only two maybe three weekends this summer we were actually home.
• We spent a lot of fun times with family and friends in a variety of places.
• We officially united our family at a beautiful little marriage ceremony at Bear Lake.
• Christmas Eve we were able to see our baby’s heart beat for the first time…giving us something to look forward to August 11, 2009 when we get to meet the baby.
Wednesday
Christmas Tag...as Marisa said...the gift that keeps on giving
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping Paper, what's the fun if there's no bow?...or if all else fails put it in a basket with some candy and stuff.
2. Real tree or Artificial? I love the smell, but hate the mess, so usually artificial.
3. When do you put up the tree? Unless my Husband & I decide to take a last minute trip to Denver to see Michael Franti, the day after Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? Usually New Years Day or the day after
5. Do you like eggnog? Yes
6. Favorite gift received as a child? A big box...literally. My Dad made a Castle out of boxes that was like 8 feet high. He even added supports and we played in it for months.
7. Hardest person to buy for? Who's name did I draw this year? That's who. :)
8. Easiest person to buy for? Chopper, he just gets excited if you are.
9. Do you have a nativity scene? No, basically just a tree and some snowmen
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail
11.Worst Christmas gift you ever received? a fender...no not really, I actually loved that gift!
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Miracle on 34th Street...the newer one
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? All through the year
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? I'm sure, but I can't remember a specific incident
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? I don't know...not really feeling food right now.
16. Lights on the tree? Usually, but not this year...I blew the breaker (not so you can just flip it to fix it) and we have to rewire something...it just sounded too difficult!
17. Favorite Christmas song? Echoing Marisa as she said "Ugh, not a huge fan of Christmas music. I know, that sounds bad, but they are sooo overplayed. I'm sorry but Christmas music the day of Halloween is not cool."
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Does running around trying to hit all the families homes count as travel or just crazy?
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixon, Commet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and of course Rudolph
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star...but this year we considered a cowboy hat.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Last year we did our presents the night before because the day of was so crazy (see #18.)
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? People, people, and people...I swear, once Halloween hits, and especially Thanksgiving, no one can think anymore to drive, park, or shop...the all become idiots on the verge of blowing up at anyone.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I haven't had a tree that long, and still haven't forked out the dough to get decent ornaments...so I have marshmallow snowmen and some cute ornaments that Karen handed down.
24. Favorite Christmas dinner? Depends on how many times I'm eating that day...and how many I have been to already.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? I don't want anything. I have my family!
Ok, tag to Jenn, Jaimie, Amy and Heidi.
2. Real tree or Artificial? I love the smell, but hate the mess, so usually artificial.
3. When do you put up the tree? Unless my Husband & I decide to take a last minute trip to Denver to see Michael Franti, the day after Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? Usually New Years Day or the day after
5. Do you like eggnog? Yes
6. Favorite gift received as a child? A big box...literally. My Dad made a Castle out of boxes that was like 8 feet high. He even added supports and we played in it for months.
7. Hardest person to buy for? Who's name did I draw this year? That's who. :)
8. Easiest person to buy for? Chopper, he just gets excited if you are.
9. Do you have a nativity scene? No, basically just a tree and some snowmen
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail
11.Worst Christmas gift you ever received? a fender...no not really, I actually loved that gift!
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Miracle on 34th Street...the newer one
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? All through the year
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? I'm sure, but I can't remember a specific incident
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? I don't know...not really feeling food right now.
16. Lights on the tree? Usually, but not this year...I blew the breaker (not so you can just flip it to fix it) and we have to rewire something...it just sounded too difficult!
17. Favorite Christmas song? Echoing Marisa as she said "Ugh, not a huge fan of Christmas music. I know, that sounds bad, but they are sooo overplayed. I'm sorry but Christmas music the day of Halloween is not cool."
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Does running around trying to hit all the families homes count as travel or just crazy?
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixon, Commet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and of course Rudolph
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star...but this year we considered a cowboy hat.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Last year we did our presents the night before because the day of was so crazy (see #18.)
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? People, people, and people...I swear, once Halloween hits, and especially Thanksgiving, no one can think anymore to drive, park, or shop...the all become idiots on the verge of blowing up at anyone.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I haven't had a tree that long, and still haven't forked out the dough to get decent ornaments...so I have marshmallow snowmen and some cute ornaments that Karen handed down.
24. Favorite Christmas dinner? Depends on how many times I'm eating that day...and how many I have been to already.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? I don't want anything. I have my family!
Ok, tag to Jenn, Jaimie, Amy and Heidi.
Monday
Friday
My Hero
It's not often you come across a person that you admire so much you can title them hero. When you do interact with such a person I don't think your life is ever the same. I have one such man in my life that we both have been thinking about an awful awful lot lately...Grandpa Earl. What an amazing man. Unfortunately he is in the hospital and has been for three weeks. He will be 89 years old December 1st and is strong enough to survive a valve replacement surgery.
Nov. 2 he was admitted to the VA with chest pain that turned out to be a narrowing of his aortic valve (his valve was only the diameter of a needle). He explained to the cardiac staff that he has lived alone since Grandma Billie passed away 15 years ago and needs his independence. He was a construction superintendent (I think that was his title, but you get the jist of it) and is a strong old bugger.
I just can't stop thinking of the life he lead. He married my Grandma Billie (whom I was named after...we both have the middle name Marie). They enjoyed many activities together that i enjoy doing with my husband. Camping, Fishing, Hunting, Traveling, Picnics, Hiking, Family events and good food.
Two nights ago I stopped at my parents to help them with an event they had planned and sitting on their table was a stack of get well cards for Grandpa. Even though I have a lot in common with him, this is what I most remember...his affect on people. Last night we almost lost this man who is so dear to me, and I just want to share some antidotes that I remember of him.
Nov. 2 he was admitted to the VA with chest pain that turned out to be a narrowing of his aortic valve (his valve was only the diameter of a needle). He explained to the cardiac staff that he has lived alone since Grandma Billie passed away 15 years ago and needs his independence. He was a construction superintendent (I think that was his title, but you get the jist of it) and is a strong old bugger.
I just can't stop thinking of the life he lead. He married my Grandma Billie (whom I was named after...we both have the middle name Marie). They enjoyed many activities together that i enjoy doing with my husband. Camping, Fishing, Hunting, Traveling, Picnics, Hiking, Family events and good food.
Two nights ago I stopped at my parents to help them with an event they had planned and sitting on their table was a stack of get well cards for Grandpa. Even though I have a lot in common with him, this is what I most remember...his affect on people. Last night we almost lost this man who is so dear to me, and I just want to share some antidotes that I remember of him.
Tyson and Grandpa
Sometimes we get so busy rushing from one place to the other, trying to squeeze that one last thing in or take that phone call that we forget to think about the important small things in life. A few months ago, I took my periodic day trip to Evanston, WY to visit Grandpa Earl. We have always been close and when I go visit he is very excited. I usually offer to drive him around so I can “get back sooner” and don’t have to be bothered with his pace of life. My last visit I took Tyson with me and suggested he drive when we got there. He did this and to my dismay he drove 20 under the speed limit (as my Grandpa does) and pulled over many times to let the other busy traffic get by.
When I finally calmed down enough to remember I was here to see my Grandpa, I had time to sit and listen to stories of his younger life I never would have heard if I didn’t slow down and pay attention to the small things like holding his hand as we drove down the road enjoying our time together. Driving home I couldn’t help the tears than snuck out as I smiled and couldn’t remember the last time I so enjoyed my visit. It just took a few minutes for Tyson to realize just how great this man is!
Now that he is in the hospital I think the only thing that pulled him through was the promise Tyson made to him that once he was better he would once again be able to go hunting (from the truck) and fishing. These men are two peas in a pod...no wonder I love Tyson so much :)
Earl's Jam
I know Grandpa misses Grandma Billie very much and lonliness makes it so easy to become bitter and self absorbed. One thing he has done to spend his time is learn to make jam. Once he started he went gun-ho. He makes the usual strawberry, raspberry, peach, apricot and the not so usual pomegranate, choke cherry and a variety of mixes. Once he has this jam he keeps some with him always. I love going places with him and watching people around him. They all know him because he is so friendly and genuine. They also all know his jam. He gives it to: Family, friends, church members, waitresses, cashiers, people at the senior center, business owners and anyone else he might run across. I went to breakfast with him once and instead of a tip he gave the waitress a bottle of jam. I was mortified, but it meant so much to the waitress that her usual customer (who usually tips money) would take the time to make her jam. She was so touched. Over and over I watch him affect people's life for the positive. Over and over I watch him and say to myself when I'm that age I hope I'm not onry at people like most older people who are in some pain and/or discomfort. I hope that I can be just a glimpse of this man.
Pool Tournaments
For about a year I worked for Verizon Wireless answering customer service calls. Most days I enjoyed the interaction, but one of my favorite aspects was a weekday off. I worked Wed-Sun afternoon/evenings. That meant Mondays I would drive to Evanston. It was during these times that Grandpa took me to the Senior Center and tried (unsuccessfully) to teach me to play pool. He had a group of buddies that were nice enough to let me play with them. They all love Earl. He can kick any one of their butts when he wants to, but he never won. He would challenge these gents and play hard with them...shit-talking the whole time :). But when it came down to it he let one of them win. Jack, in particular, took losing hard. It took me a long time to realize what was happening. It wasn't due to my lack of knowlege of pool. It was because he didn't let them know he let them win. They thought they really beat him. He was humble enough to enhance their days. He has a multitude of senior pool tournament prizes...all second and third places because he watched each day to see who needed the win the most.
One last...Earl and Jaclynn
I have had the wonderful opportunity to be close to Grandpa Earl my whole life. When I was younger...3 or 4...I don't remember this, but have the pictures. (i'll put some on later) Grandpa lived in Springville with big trees in his yard. He raked all the leaves the day we went to visit. After all that work he tells the story that i ran and jumped right in the middle of the pile and started spreading them back out. The other adults at the time tell me that Earl leaned over with a twinkle in his eye and "suggested" that what a pile of leaves was good for was to jump in and pointed to the pile of leaves. Another time we went to visit Grandpa in Evanston. Like most newlywed couple my parents were struggling and I didn't have boots. Grandma sent Grandpa to take me to get some pull over boots (a cheap and effective alternative). Grandpa took me down to the store and said which ones do you want? I was probably 4 because they moved when I was 4 and I don't remember this story either. I picked out the boots just like grandpa's. Work snow boots (size 4 and still $60.00) and of course picked out the same ones for my baby brother ($40.00). Although I don't remember these, I do remember him teaching me to fish that next summer. He loaded the pole and hooked a fish and then handed it to me...I got all the glory for catching the first fish. He also taught me to gut a fish that same day (that the part I really remember...I was 5). I remember him teaching me about quaky aspens and how the deer hide in them. I remember helping to skin the moose when he was lucky enough to draw out a moose tag. I remember eating his prized raspberries. I remember learning that a cowboy hat is the sexiest piece of clothing a man can wear. We weren't allowed to touch Grandpa's Stetson cowboy hat, but it now sits at home where he handed it down to my husband. I remember him taking the cover off the boat so we could sit in it and pretend to fish. I remember all the times he would tell us to do something we normally couldn't get away with...and perhaps we got scolded but the twinkle in his eye made it worth it...and the punishments less serious:
- putting olives on our fingers and not eating them after
- chasing the dog
- watching scary movies...such as Jaws
- Getting another cookie after we were told we couldn't have one
- Using some of the adult tools we weren't allowed to (he was always patient and there to supervise) such as the dremel tool etc.
- Putting rocks into our mouths to get the dust off and see what color they really are
- Taking home fossils and arrowheads we found when we were hiking with him
- Steering the car long before we could reach the pedals
- Driving the car after we could reach even longer before we even thought of a learners permit
- Learning just where a jeep can go that you think it can't.
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