Thoughts From Kathy

Tell It Like It Is

2009-06-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening Mackinsie and I were making plans for Thursday. At some point I said that I would put on my "thinking cap" about that. She responded, "Grandma, I don't think that you have a thinking cap anymore". LOVE IT! I always tell her it's a good thing I have her. She's the "smart and beautiful one".

I need to record this story:

Mackensie has a really deep understanding of death. Awhile ago we were having one of our classic breakfast conversations. We were talking about our bodies and spirits being two different things. The body is where our spirit lives while on earth. She ask me, "Grandma, do you think our spirits knew each other in heaven?". Oh, I believe we did, I told her. "That's it! I knew it! I think our spirits are twins. WE ARE TWINS! We like the same things, what's your favorite color? Purple, I respond. Mine to, she says. What's your favorite food? Chocolate, I respond. Mine to, she says. We play question and answer for a few minutes. Then I suggested that we come up with names that rhyme. She wanted to keep Mackensie - so my twin name is Madaline.

Thoughts from Mackensie

2009-06-04T22:04:00.000-07:00

So, I have developed a bad habit lately of talking with my mouth full of food, or eating to fast. Who knows why! My lip is really taking a beating. Today Mackensie and I were driving and eating a bag of Gold Fish (that was lunch!). I bit my lip, talking with food in my mouth. I expressed myself to Mackensie and showed her my lip.

She thought for a moment and then said, "Grandma, you need to start doing lady practice." I ask what that meant. "It's where you learn not to talk with food in your mouth and eat like a lady." Where did you learn that, I ask. "On ICarly. Sam (a girl) wanted a boyfriend, so ICarly taught her how to be lady like. Lady Practice, I just made that up myself right now."

Apparently TV does have value!!!! I love that little girl. Another GREAT THURSDAY!

I LOVE SPRING!

2009-04-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a perfect spring day! We went outside to play and Mackensie discovered that she is now tall enough to get on the swing and the glider by herself! Grace, Peyton and Angie came over and while Angie and I visited in the swing the girls rode the glider and visited. After they left I was pushing Mackensie on the swing and all of a sudden she yelled out as loud as she could
"I LOVE SPRING!!!!" Me to my sweet angel, me to!

Austin News

2009-04-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

For those of you that don't know, Austin is 11 almost 12. He is in the sixth grade and getting nervous about junior high. Ryan and Valerie got an email from his principle this week telling them that he had nominated Austin for National Junior Leadership! If he wins this honor he will go to on a Washington DC trip. He was full of compliments about my smart and compassionate grandson! He shows great leadership qualities, when he finishes his work he loves to walk around and help others. His teacher does appreciate that! He reads over 12th grade level and they have him doing advanced math. He may not always make the right choice at home (what 11 year does?), but he is showing greatness at school. His Dad was really proud of him. He still can't beat his Dad at basketball, but give him another year and he'll probably be taller than him! I love you Austin and couldn't be prouder!

Mackensie Fun

2009-03-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Mackensie and I were saying our goodbyes, we exchanged the original I love to the Moon and back, back and forth we went. Then I said, "I love you to Minnesota, stop and find Dean, and back again". She looked at me and said, "Can I go with you? I want to see Uncle Dean". !!!!

At Preschool they have what they call your special day. That means you get to bring show and tell and invite someone to snack with you. Her last one was last Monday. I talked with her on the telephone Tuesday for something else and ask her how her special day went. She told me that I needed to talk to Mommy about that. So Valerie told me that she had stood up and "read" her book to everyone. Thursday I made a comment about how proud I was of her etc etc. She looked at me and said, "Grandma, we don't have to talk about that anymore. It's just the way I am now." I asked her if it was OK for me to still tell her that I'm proud of her? She answered, "Yes, and I will tell you Thank You". So, being brave is just who she is now! She also told me she doesn't like the boys anymore, except for Andrew. She has made girl friends now, even goes to Little Gym again with one of them, Hannah. Yes, the one who told her she didn't want to play with her months ago. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I LOVE THAT LITTLE BRAVE RICKS GIRL!!!

More Comfort Foods

2009-03-01T15:28:00.000-08:00

turkey thigh supper
3 medium red potatoes, cut into chunks
1/2 pound fresh baby carrots
2 medium onions, cut into chunks
4 turkey thighs, skin removed
1 can ( 10 3/4 ounces) condensed tomato soup, undiluted
1/3 cup water
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt

In a 5-qt slow cooker, layer the potatoes, carrots and onions. Top with turkey. Combine the soup, water, garlic, Italian seasoning and salt; pour over turkey. Cover and cook on high for 7-8 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 180 degrees and vegetables are tender. yield: 4 servings

You can substitute chicken breasts for the turkey or honey-flavored barbecue sauce for the soup mixture.

Mackensie Funny

2009-02-14T16:57:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday night, I was sitting in the family room visiting with Valerie, when Mackensie came in and stood in front of me. She said, "Grandma, I feel sorry for you". I ask her why? "Because you are missing out on all the fun, since you are not playing with me". !!!!!!!!!!!

oh so easy comfort foods

2009-02-11T15:09:00.000-08:00

I recently picked up a magazine with slow cooker and casserole receipes. I thought I would share one with you every now and then. This one sounded really good. Mom, Grandma Ricks use to make Salmon Loaf, I loved it. Please let me know if you try it and how it is.

salmon loaf
2 eggs lightly beaten
2 cups seasoned stuffing croutons
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan chees
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
1 can (14-3/4 ounces) salmon, drained, bones and skin removed

In a bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Add salmon and mix well. Transfer to a 3 sq. slow cooker coated with cooking spray. Gently shape mixture into a loaf. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees. Yield: 6 servings

Tip in the magazine: some people like to remove the bones from canned salmon, but they are edible and can add calcium to your diet. If you don't like the texture, mash the drained salmon in a bowl with the back of a spoon. The bones will disappear in seconds.

Read, Learn, Grow

2009-02-08T10:49:00.000-08:00

I have a friend that is studying in Israel. Her blog is linked to mine as "Shan's Story". Her writings are very interesting. I am looking forward to learning more about this holy place. I challenge each of you to read her writings and we can all learn together. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

SO THIS IS LOVE

2009-02-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

Mackensie funny: She leans into me and whispers, "Grandma, I don't think I'm going to have children". Inside I'm shocked and disappointed, all she's ever talked about is being a momma. So I ask her why? She says, "Well, you know that I'm going to marry Daddy, and Daddy can only have children with Momma". I agree with her but mention that she might find someone she loves when she gets older. She says, "No I won't. Grandma, you know I love my Daddy very, very, very, very, very. very much". You can't argue with that!

She has been a little under the weather lately. Cough and cold time. No one hates their child to be sick, but you sure do love all the snuggle time! She loves to lay on her daddy on the couch and watch TV. Daddy will even watch cartoons with you if you're sick!

Snow Day Fun

2008-12-22T18:37:00.000-08:00

What's more fun than snow? Having your Daddy home to play with you in it!

Yes, Mackensie, Santa doesn't bite!

2008-12-20T12:03:00.000-08:00

No problems this year! What a difference a year makes. Austin didn't really want to sit on Santa's lap, he is 11 after all. But he'll do just about anything for his little sister. Mackensie had no fear this year, she really has turned into a "brave Ricks girl". Happy Holidays everyone.

GOOD THOUGHTS

2008-12-17T14:27:00.000-08:00

This should probably be taped to your bathroom mirror where one could read it every day.

You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.

1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.
2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.
10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.

Christmas Fun

2008-12-13T15:31:00.000-08:00

Every year I give my grandchildren an ornament. It's a tradition my mother started with her grandchildren. I decided this year to make them Christmas pillow cases. So, on Thursday I had wrapped them and put them under my tree. Mackensie is sooooo into it this year and was really curious about the gifts. She ask me, " Grandma did you get Austin the same thing you got me?" I told her yes. About 5 minutes later she said, "How about you tell me what you got Austin, I promise not to tell him". She also ask her Daddy if he knew where Mama was hiding the presents, he told her yes. She whispered to him, "why don't you tell me and I promise I won't tell Mama you told me". She cracks me up! Don't know what I'd do without her, the older she gets the more precious the time. As you can tell from her picture, she isn't a baby any more.

This year I am increasingly grateful for my family. No gifts are necessary, just spending time together seems to bring us even more happiness. I wish the same for all of you. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

LOOK! NO TEETH

2008-11-24T12:50:00.000-08:00

Here's my angel with her bottom teeth missing! She lost her second one last Friday while eating dinner. She was very happy that she didn't swallow it!

BEST STORY EVER

2008-11-11T16:49:00.000-08:00

ONE OF THE BEST STORIES I'VE EVER HEARD! As she stood in front of her 5th grade class on the very first day of school, she told the children an untruth. Like most teachers, she looked at her students and said that she loved them all the same. However, that was impossible, because there in the front row, slumped in his seat, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed that he did not play well with the other children, that his clothes were messy and that he constantly needed a bath. In addition, Teddy could be unpleasant. It got to the point where Mrs. Thompson would actually take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold X's and then putting a big 'F' at the top of his papers. At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review each child's past records and she put Teddy's off until last. However, when she reviewed his file, she was in for a surprise. Teddy's first grade teacher wrote, 'Teddy is a bright child with a ready laugh. He does his work neatly and has good manners... He is a joy to be around..' His second grade teacher wrote, 'Teddy is an excellent student, well liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle.' His third grade teacher wrote, 'His mother's death has been hard on him. He tries to do his best, but his father doesn't show much interest, and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't taken.' Teddy's fourth grade teacher wrote, 'Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and he sometimes sleeps in class.' By now, Mrs. Thompson realized the problem and she was ashamed of herself. She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas presents, wrapped in beautiful ribbons and bright paper, except for Teddy's. His present was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper that he got from a grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in the middle of the other presents. Some of the children started to laugh when sh e found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones missing, and a bottle that was one-quarter full of perfume. But she stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume on her wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed after school that day just long enough to say, 'Mrs. Thompson, today you smelled just like my Mom used to.' After the children left, she cried for at least an hour. On that very day, she quit teaching reading, writing and arithmetic. Instead, she began to teach children. Mrs. Thompson paid particular attention to Teddy. As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more she encouraged him, the faster he responded. By the end of the year, Teddy had become one of the smartest children in the class and, despi te her lie that she would love all the children the same, Teddy became one of her 'teacher's pets..' A year later, she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her that she was the best teacher he ever had in his whole life. Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy. He then wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she was still the best teacher he ever had in life. Four years after tha t, she got another letter, saying that while things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with it, and would soon graduate from college with the highest of honours. He assured Mrs. Thompson that she was still the best and favourite teacher he had ever had in his whole life. Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a little further. The letter explained that she was still the best and favourite teacher he ever had. But now his name was a little longer.... The letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, MD. The story does not end there. You see, there was yet another letter that spring. Teddy said he had met this girl and was going to be married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago and he was wondering if Mrs. Thompson might agree to sit at the wedding in the place that was usually reserved for the mother of the groom. Of course, Mrs. Thompson did. And guess what? She wore that bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. Moreover, she made sure she was wearing the perfume that Teddy remembered his mother wearing on their last Christmas together. They hugged eac h other, and Dr. Stoddard whispered in Mrs. Thompson's ear, 'Thank y ou Mrs. Thompson for believing in me. Thank you so much for making me feel important and showing me that I could make a difference.' Mrs. Thompson, with tears in her eyes, whispered back. She said, 'Teddy, you have it all wrong. You were the one who taught me that I could make a difference. I didn't know how to teach until I met you.' (For you that don't know, Teddy Stoddard is the Doctor at Iowa Methodist in Des Moines that has the Stoddard Cancer Wing.) Warm someone's heart today. . . pass this along. I love this story so very m uch, I cry every time I read it. Just try to make a difference in someone's life today? tomorrow? just 'do it'. Random acts of kindness, I think they call it! 'Believe in Angels, then return the favor'

FALL RECEIPE

2008-11-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Spread

4 oz cream cheese softened
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/4 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Beat cream cheese, sugar and syrup til creamy. Add pumpkin, spices and vanila and beat til smooth. Refrigerate for at least an hour. Enjoy!

END OF A FUN AFTERNOON

2008-11-06T22:23:00.000-08:00

We have so much fun hanging out with the McLaughlin girls! Mackensie loves Grace and Peyton and I have to say I love Angie. We have the best discussions and I really look forward to being with her. After dancing today the girls wanted to watch a video. This is the three of them laying on the floor together. AH THE QUIET!

MACKENSIE

2008-11-06T21:53:00.000-08:00

So today was sooo fun! I am still amazed at how smart Mackensie is. I mentioned to her that we have a new president. She said, "I know, his name is Senator Barack Obama. I'm so glad he won I wanted to vote for him." I ask her how she knew that, did she learn it at school. She said no, she saw it on the news. She was just really excited about it. Later at lunch we started talking about Thanksgiving and what she is grateful for. Then we started talking about being thankful that we live in America. I was telling her about other countries and how women and children are treated. She really listens and has so many questions. After we talked for awhile she said to me that she really was thankful that she lives in the United States of America. I just love her open mind!

Another story: She wanted me to do scissor jumps and the splits with her. I told her I was just to old to do that. I reminded her that I was 52 years old. She said OK I didn't have to do it - and that when she is seven and old, she won't do it either!

INTERESTING ARTICLE FROM FRONTDOOR.COM

2008-11-03T14:32:00.001-08:00

Mortgage Rescue: Where McCain, Obama Stand
Senators both offer proposals to let homeowners keep what they have
By Holden Lewis, bankrate.com Published: 10/28/2008
The politics of housing have changed in four years.
In 2004, George W. Bush campaigned on a platform of increasing homeownership, especially among minorities. He wanted the government to insure zero-down payment mortgages. "In changing times, ownership can bring stability to your lives," Bush told a rally in Michigan.
It turns out that homeownership brought instability to the lives of people who bought houses when they weren't ready. Perhaps as a result, Bush's replacement isn't running on a platform of extending homeownership. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., both offer proposals to let homeowners keep what they have. They have modest goals, born of the bitter experience of the mortgage meltdown.
McCain and Obama agree on the broad outlines of housing policy, and disagree on some particulars.
Both major-party candidates voted for the $700 billion bailout.
McCain said in the second debate that he prefers to call it a "rescue" instead of a "bailout." "So this rescue package means that we will stabilize markets, we will shore up these institutions," McCain said.
Obama explained that he voted for the bailout because, otherwise, frozen credit markets "could end up having an adverse effect on everybody," including mass layoffs.
Both major-party candidates say the government should reduce foreclosures by buying distressed mortgages from lenders and allowing homeowners to refinance into government-insured loans.
Obama has said that many Americans bear part of the responsibility for the mortgage meltdown. "Part of the reason this crisis occurred, if we're honest with ourselves, is that everyone was living beyond their means -- from Wall Street to Washington to even some on Main Street," he said in early October.
McCain said something similar in March: "It is not the duty of government to bail out and reward those who act irresponsibly, whether they are big banks or small borrowers."
Although McCain and Obama agree that the government should buy distressed mortgages, they disagree on who should lose money on the deal.
The Great Bailout gives the Treasury $700 billion and a lot of leeway on how to spend it. The government is giving money to banks in exchange for an ownership stake that can be sold to investors later, and the government can buy distressed mortgage-backed securities. The Treasury has another, more direct option: It can buy individual mortgages on which the borrowers have defaulted. That's different from buying mortgage-backed securities.
By buying bad mortgages, the government would allow homeowners to refinance their loans for smaller amounts that reflect the reduced values of their homes. Under such a plan, someone has to take a financial loss -- lenders, the government, or homeowners. The candidates disagree on who should take that loss.
McCain says that, in cases where homeowners were responsible enough to make down payments, the government should eat the loss.
The Treasury would pay full price to the investors who own the loans. Under this plan, the homeowner would refinance for a reduced loan amount. The government would accept a loan payoff for that reduced amount, so the government would take the loss. The plan could aid up to 11 million homeowners, McCain says.
McCain compared his proposal to the federal government's Home Owners Loan Corp., which was founded in 1933, at the dawn of Franklin Roosevelt's administration. In those days, most mortgages were interest-only balloon loans that came due after three to five years. Borrowers expected to refinance their loans before they expired.
Congress addressed the problem in 1933 by forming the HOLC. According to the book "History and Policies of the Home Owners' Loan Corporation," by Lowell C. Harriss, the federal government eventually bought one-fifth of the nation's mortgages. About half of the HOLC's borrowers ended up in foreclosure. Still, the program is considered a success. The HOLC came to an end in 1951, at a slight profit to the government.
Obama says he favors a structure like the new Hope for Homeowners program, in which lenders take the loss.
Hope for Homeowners is for delinquent borrowers who owe more than their houses are worth. Under the program, these homeowners get government-insured loans for 90 percent of the home's diminished value. The original lender loses the difference between the amount of the original loan and the amount of the new loan. The program is optional, and presumably lenders will reject deals in which foreclosure would be less of a money-loser.
Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.scrippsnews.com.

Fun Craft Ideas For Children

2008-11-01T14:36:00.000-07:00

I found this website and it has some fantastic ideas for children of all ages. Go to www.familycorner.com and check it out. I thought of a fun twist on the one with the children hands on the tree trunk. Since most of you don't have very many kids yet, make 27 hands and each day have your children tell you something they are thankful for. Write it for them and watch your tree grow!

BIRTHDAY AND HALLOWEEN

2008-11-01T12:41:00.001-07:00

Sorry, no pictures, Grandma had a senior moment and forgot her camara. BUT both days were fun and exciting! The first four years Mackensie did not enjoy her birthday. She was afraid of the candle, did not liked to be sang to, but she did like the presents! This year she enjoyed it all. I think the gift she loved the most is her new bike! She was so excited and hopped right on. Ryan got the lights fired up on the sport court and took her out to ride. She did fantastic! She looked so big with her helmet on. I'll try to get pictures another time.

Halloween; Austin was old enough this year to go out with his friend Brandon. I thought it was interesting that he and Brandon came to trick or treat at the house and he really wanted to see Mackensie. She was out with her parents and he was disappointed. But then they ran into them. He told Valerie before he left, I hope I don't feel like I did on Fourth of July. He had gone with Brandon to do fireworks, but he really missed his family. It's hard to grow up when you love your family so much. I'm happy he feels that way.

Mackensie dressed up like a monkey. They said she had fun trick or treating, but she really loved answering the door and handing out the candy. Every time the doorbell rang she yelled for me to hurry - we had customers! She looked adorable. Another fun year. Hope you all had fun also. Can't wait to read your posts!

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY MACKENSIE!

2008-10-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it - Mackensie is going to be five on October 25th! It really does seem like yesterday that she was born. I cannot believe my good fortune that I have an awesome daughter in law, an exceptional grandson, the best son in the world and of course my little BFF Mackensie. By experience, I know that every age is enjoyable and fun. But just when I think her and I couldn't have any more fun together - another phase is entered into and we have just as much, if not more, fun together. I am so looking forward to the future, but make no mistake, I'm not trying to hurry her. I am enjoy the present WAY to much. Happy Birthday my sweet angel, I love you to the moon and back!

CAN YOU HELP A COLLEGE STUDENT OUT?

2008-10-15T19:35:00.000-07:00

If you have a moment would get on Neil Robert's blog and participate. He's a hardworking college student who just needs a little help!!!!!! No, he just needs us to rally and give our opinion, something we all have. The link is on the right.

THANKS FOR THE TAG DELEE

2008-10-04T15:46:00.000-07:00

Delee did a tag of 6 Random Things About Me. This gets me back into blogging, I've been slacking off .... so here are some things about me.

1. I like watching TV, especially at night. I'm really happy that the new season has started. I like soap opera type shows. I like Desperate Housewives (not to sure about this season) and my new favorite is Lipstick Jungle, The Closer and Saving Grace.

2. I like sleeping in. I use to be a morning person, not any more! I like to stay up and watch my new favorite shows!!

3. I cry when I think about my family. I really miss the ones that are gone (both dead and living a distance away!). There was a time when I could take it or leave it when it came to family. But now, I know that my sisters are my best friends.

4. Ryan IS my best friend. You may have already known that - but as we get older it gets stronger not weaker. So, yes Delee, it is good to have your parents as your friends. Aunts are great friends also!

5. I think Jeremy and Steve are awesome nephews in law! I hope they like me as much as I like them!

6. I want to live with my sisters when we are old. I want Ryan etc to build us a big rambler that we can all live in. We would have our own rooms, a big kitchen and family room. We could then have one nurse/doctor. Think of the money you kids could save. And then you would only have to go one place to visit the old Aunties!

I'm tagging: Natalie, Chrissy, Margaret

SUMMER FUN!

2008-09-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

Grace Mackensie Peyton

What a fun end to the summer! We finally got to play with the McLaughlin girls outside, in the sunshine! They had such a great time playing in the little pool, running through the sprinkler and throwing buckets of water on each other! This is the three of them enjoying their fudge bars. SO MANY LAUGHS!

Thursday

2008-08-29T18:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first Thursday in quite some time that Mackensie didn't want to go to Auntie Margaret's' house and see Polly. She "just wanted to stay home and play with Grandma". We had a great day together. People often ask me what we do on Thursdays. If I'm with Mackensie we look at each other and shrug our shoulders! We don't know - we just do. Yesterday we did some art "experiments". We always read and watch a few cartoons together. Mackensie played office and told me to turn down my music, I was being to loud and she had projects to finish. Robbie had called so I ask her if I could call my sister - she said yes, if I didn't talk to loud and "bother" her. She looks and sounds just like her mother when she says stuff like that!!!! Valerie likes the influence she has on her!! We laugh about that. Once she finished her project we put up her tent, got our dogs, packed a picnic and went up the mountain, camped out, and then made it to the tent. About that time we needed to go home to her house. I guess her parents like to see her! So another fun day doing "whatever we want"! I love that girl!

PS..her tooth still hasn't come out

Best Week Ever

2008-08-25T20:29:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been in the middle of having the best time and you just don't want it to end? That was how last week was! Having Terra, Delee and their families home was just the frosting on lifes cake! Paul and Jaxson couldn't have lifted my spirits any higher. They are old enough now to remember me - and they really showed how much they love me. Sam is about the sweetest 18 month you'd want to meet. He can say Auntie Kathy the cutiest way. He reminds me so much of Dean at the age. Cute, smart and most of all, sweet. Paul's excitment of getting to be with his cousin Mackensie was so cute. We sat by the window together and watched for her to come last night. When a black car with a "M" on it came into the driveway, oh, the excitement, he sure can jump high in the air! The feeling is very mutual from Mackensie. Jaxson with his little happy feet and motorcycle hands! He is so sweet also, but very funny! He is fun to joke and snuggle with. He is always willing to give me a kiss and a hug. And then, little Ehlana - oh what a sweet baby she it. Very quick to give a smile. The cutiest little chubby legs, she is just one you want to squeeze! But I think the best is having Terra and Delee here. They are my girls. I love them like daughters and they give me mothers' love back. Thank you girls for all your love.

Now the boys. You don't see a lot of the Spencer boys, they tend to work a lot! But, they are a major part of the equation. After Ryan these boys are always quick with a big hug. I hope they know how much I love them.

To Dean, he knows how much I will miss him. He has always been my special friend. From birth to being a toddler and loving to be at Aunt Kathy's house working in the yard, to working for me last summer. My wish for him is for comfort and success. I hope he meets many new people that will appreciate his good spirit and take good care of him.

And, of course, thank you Margaret and Darwin for sharing your family with me. I know we joke about it, that I'm never invited, I just show up. But I know that I am always welcomed in your home. Thank you for all the happy hours.

Chrissy Information

2008-08-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

For those of you that want to contact Chrissy here is her information:

Nate is in his second year resisdancy for Surgery. He has 6 more years here. Still not sure what to specialize in. But he is happy hopefully. Ours phone number is 717-531-0003 ext 286243.

GRANDMA TAG

2008-08-07T22:46:00.000-07:00

Favorite Activities: playing with Mackensie
Favorite Movie/TV Show: my favorite TV show is Flipping Out on Bravo
Favorite Places to Go: my favorite place to go is Mackensie's house
Favorite Vacations: Mexico was fun
Favorite Things to Eat: chocolate
What she Wants to be When she Grows Up: Do I have to grow up, I don't want to!
Favorite Preschool Activities: singing
Grandma Tags: Neil, Dean and Carl

MACKENSIE TAG

2008-08-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

Favorite Activities: Play pony

Favorite Movie/TV Show: my favorite movie is Toy Story and Toy Story II, and all three Cinderellas, Dumbo, and I like Sponge Bob

Favorite Places to Go: my favorite place to go is Grandma Kathy's' and my other favorite place to go is home

Favorite Vacations: go to the Seahawks game

Favorite Things to Eat: macaroni, fettuccine, I like ice cream and I like fudge bars

What she Wants to be When she Grows Up: a momma

Favorite Preschool Activities: my favorite thing to do is math and reading

Mackensie Tags: Grandma, Kara, Grace

Losing Teeth, ALREADY!?

2008-08-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Mackensie has her first loose tooth! SHE is very excited. Mom, Dad and Grandma are pretty much bummed out. Can she really be growing up that fast? Her and I went to toothfairy.com and found some interesting items. We found one web site that had a forest background. Mackensie said, "I just knew the tooth fairy would live in the forest. I wonder if she knows the bebe fairy? Maybe I can get my bebe back". Then she laughed and hit herself on the knee and said "Oh, I crack myself up! I'm too big for a bebe". (if you don't remember she called her binkie a bebe).

MACKENSIE FUNNY

2008-07-20T22:23:00.000-07:00

Friday was Valerie's 30th birthday. We celebrated it tonight with her mom and dad, grandpa and new friend and her ex-brother in-law. We are a strange bunch! We sure have fun together now! Anyway, Mackensie made her momma a birthday card. She loves to write in note cards. She handed it to her momma and told her it was a birthday card with a debit card in it. She had drawn a square and printed some letters. It was so cute!

I Wish You Enough

2008-07-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

I received this in an email and thought it was an awesome story. To those I couldn't email it to, I hope you enjoy it.

Recently I overheard a mother and daughter in their last moments together at the airport. They had announced the departure.. Standing near the security gate, they hugged and the mother said, 'I love you and I wish you enough'. The daughter replied, 'Mom, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Mom'. They kissed and the daughter left. The mother walked over to the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see she wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on her privacy but she welcomed me in by asking, 'Did you ever say good-bye to someone knowing it would be forever?'. Yes, I have,' I replied. 'Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever good-bye?'. 'I am old and she lives so faraway. I have challenges ahead and the reality is - the next trip back will be for my funeral,' she said. 'When you were saying good-bye, I heard you say, 'I wish you enough'. May I ask what that means?'. She began to smile. 'That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone'. She paused a moment and looked up as if trying to remember it in detail and she smiled even more. 'When we said , 'I wish you enough', we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them'. Then turning toward me, she shared the following as if she were reciting it from memory.

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright no matter how gray the day may appear.

I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun even more.

I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive and everlasting.

I wish you enough pain so that even the smallest of joys in life may appear bigger.

I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.

I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.

I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.

She then began to cry and walked away.

They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them but then an entire life to forget them. *Only if you wish send this to the people you will never forget and remember to send it back to the person who sent it to you... If you don't send it to anyone it may mean that you are in such a hurry that you have forgotten your friends. TAKE TIME TO LIVE... To all my friends and loved ones, I WISH YOU ENOUGH .

Memory Game

2008-07-15T14:48:00.001-07:00

I got this game from my friend (well she is my friend!) Delee's blog:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

TAG, I'M IT

2008-07-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks Delee for the tag. Mackensie and I are reading the collector's edition of Charlotte's Web, by E.B. White, with pictures by Garth Williams (they are beautiful!). We are on chapter 3. So here are the rules of the tag:

1. Pick up the nearest book (at least 123 pages). 2. Turn to page 123. 3. Find the 5th sentence. 4. Post the 5th sentence on your blog. 5. Tag 5 people.

Templeton's eyes were blazing. (This chapter is "Off to the Fair)

I tag, Margaret, Natalie, Dean, Neil, Jeremy G

Do You Remember Your First Kitty?

2008-07-06T21:31:00.000-07:00

Auntie Margaret has a new kitty, her name is Polly. Mackensie is so in love with this kitten! Unfortunately her Momma is allergic to cats, so she can't have one. The last two Thursdays we have been spending time playing with Polly at Auntie Margaret's house. Thank you Auntie Margaret!

YOUR OPINION COUNTS WITH ME

2008-06-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

I am considering becoming a demonstrator for a product called Uppercase Living. Will you please go to their website http://www.uppercaseliving.com/ and let me know what you think? I don't have pricing yet, but understand that it is very reasonable. Thank you!

NEW PICTURES

2008-06-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

If you would like to see the proofs from Mackensie's lastest photo shoot, go to www.brandystonephotography.com, go to proofs, password is mackensie. She has really grown up since her last pictures. She did a great job, she is "cracking" herself up in several pictures. These pictures really captured her personality! Hope you enjoy.

FIRST PARTY INVITE

2008-06-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

Just about the first words out of Mackensie yesterday was telling me that she had been invited to a birthday party! She was so excited! She just loves having friends. This was her last week at school and she is definitely looking forward to fall. She did super on her evaluation. I really think putting her in early was a good decision. She has really grown up this year. Right now she is into putting puzzles together, playing the piano, her favorite cartoon is Tom and Jerry. (if I had a better memory I would probably remember the episodes, but...) She can't wait to swim this year. Good times!!!

MACKENSIE FUNNY

2008-06-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Mackensie and I played in her playhouse last night. We decided it should be our "club house". I suggested that we give our club house a name. Here is what she came up with; ONE DOG, TWO GIRLS, ONE SHORT, ONE TALL, CLUB HOUSE. You are all invited to play when you come to visit!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AUSTIN

2008-06-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

Austin's birthday is coming up the end of this week. I can't believe he's going to be 11! Right now he's into video games, reading, spending the night with his buddy Brandon, basketball, tormenting and being tormented by his sister, and he's finally trying to conquer riding a bike! If you have time to send him a birthday wish I know he would be thrilled.

I LOVE TO BLOG!

2008-06-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

I love to blog and I love to read blogs! I feel like I get to see the family that lives so far away when ever I want. Thursday Mackensie and I got on the computer so she could see the new pictures of Elle. Then we had to go to Terra's blog so she could see Paul and Sam. Then we went to the Spencer's site so she could watch Uncle Neil disco dance (again). And, can you believe it, she remembered the OLD blog of Uncle Dean and Uncle Neil doing the hula! Her and Grace laughed so hard and did the entire dance with them, like 20 times! So please keep it up, WE LOVE IT!!!

Quote From Thursday

2008-05-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

In between organizing and reading her books, I told Mackensie that I got to go to a birthday party the next night. She ask me who's birthday it was and I told her Auntie Nancy's. She then ask me how old she was going to be and I told her 60. Her little head spun around and with her eyes big she said, "Oh my! She's almost to heaven".

HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY TO ALL YOU FABULOUS MOMS

2008-05-12T14:05:00.000-07:00

Before I was a Mom -
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous
I never thought about immunizations.
Before I was a Mom -
I had never been puked on
Pooped on
Chewed on
Peed on
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts
I slept all night.
Before I was a Mom -
I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests
Or give shots
I never looked into teary eyes and cried
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.
Before I was a Mom -
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put him down
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much
I never knew that I could love someone so much
I never knew I would love being a Mom.
Before I was a Mom -
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.
Before I was a Mom -
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache,
the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

Another Great Thursday!

2008-03-27T20:28:00.000-07:00

I never believed the old saying, absence makes the heart grow fonder, but today it was proven to me. Last Thursday I was sick, sick enough to call off Thursday. Well, today could not have come soon enough. Valerie was not in the house 5 minutes when Mackensie was telling her she needed to leave. Then we were off! The day was full of fun. We went to the grocery store so we could make dinner. I took her little shopping cart that Auntie Margaret had given her with us. She made her own list, so she could be organized. She so stinking cute that everyone loves looking at her in the store. Then we came home and made crock pot pork chops and our favorite, rolls! She loves to bake with Grandma. Then we started to play with cardboard houses that we had craved the last Thursday. We have Winnie The Pooh stickers so we decorated our houses. In between playing it was snowing such big flakes that we went out back and caught snowflakes with our tongues. Then we got Christmas wrapping paper and wrapped presents for some of her "friends". Eeyore, Bath Baby, Black Bear and Piglet. She opened the gifts for them soon after she had wrapped them. Then Mackensie set the table while I finished making dinner. We had a great dinner with her family and then she helped me clean up. She loves to organize the dishes in the dishwasher. As we were cleaning up the toys she told me that next week we need to organize the doll house. Because, as she says, "organizing, that's what I do!" Exhausted and feeling totally loved - yes that me - Grandma Kathy. When I ask her today who she loves the most she said, "You - and a few other people too".

Starting Pre-School

2008-03-05T13:45:00.001-08:00

This week Mackensie started going to Pre-school. Valerie found a school that happened to have an opening for the rest of year - so they put her in only two days a week. When they went to visit the school for the first time the director was talking to them about what days she would be attending. Now, Mackensie was at another table playing (but still listening) and overhead the question. Ryan said she turned her head and said to the director, "I just want you to know right now that I will not be coming to school on Thursdays". Hey! I'm still her best friend and Thursday is still sacred! She did great on Monday, no tears, just marched right in. I think her Daddy was more nervous about it then her. I remember following behind the bus on his first day of school. He wanted to take the bus with his friends. And with just a little wave and a quick kiss good bye he was gone. I know I cried all the way to work. So hard to let go, but the rewards are so worth it.

I've been Tagged

2008-02-29T21:46:00.000-08:00

I've been tagged...10 years ago...I had my real estate license and was just getting started selling. I was having fun being forty one and free!

5 things on my list to do today...1. wow I don't have five things to do! I will be on site up in bonney lake where we have five houses left to sell. I guess I need to sell all five houses today!

What I would do if I were suddenly a millionaire...Pay off my bills, start a construction business with Ryan, give some money away, find a really crummy neighborhood and buy all the houses, then fix them up and sell them to lower income families. Build myself a new house on some property were Mackensie and I could have a little farm with horses, dogs, cats, chickens, sheep, pigs and a cow. (Her and I have a dream!)

3 of my bad habits...1. not eating right, watching to much TV, buying stuff for Mackensie

5 places I have lived...1. Tacoma, Puyallup, Eatonville, Rexburg ID, Boise ID

5 jobs I have had...1. Babysitting, working at gas station, working at Tacoma General in the laundry room, Day Care, feeding the blower for Darwin.

5 things people don't know about me...1. Um that's a hard one (at least what I'm willing to share!) I would like to have a little farm to retire on 2. I would like to learn a foreign language 3. I love going to school and learning 4. I really don't like being in charge, I'd rather enjoy the party 5. I hate shopping

WHAT WILL BE GOING ON IN TEN YEARS...Boy oh boy, I'll be 61. I'll be able to get the senior discount, I'll be working for Ryan (part time of course with full time pay). I'll be in good health and enjoying a great life!

I tag...Stephanie and Paige

What To Be When You Grow Up?

2008-02-16T22:12:00.000-08:00

Mackensie loves animals...dogs, cats, fish, you name it, she likes it. She was enjoying a dog that belongs to a neighbor of Grandma Porters. She was talking about how much she loves doggies and kitties. I suggested to her that she be a veterinarian when she grows up. She said, "I don't want to be a veterinarian . . . I want to be a dog catcher". She cracks me up!!

Thursday Quote

2008-02-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Mackensie and I were playing Mister Potatoe Head (her latest passion). We use pipe cleaners for their hair. It makes them look very silly! Anyway, I had a pipe cleaner wrapped around my finger and was lightly stroking her face with it. She loved the feel and was very relaxed. I told her that I was going to hypnotis her. While I was stroking her face, I was softly giving her the command that she would not grow up....she would stay four forever.

She opened her eyes after I was done and said, "Don't worry Grandma, I WILL stay four until my next birthday". .......Always thinking........

For All Of You That Love The Wizard of Oz

2008-01-31T20:29:00.000-08:00

Well, the time has finally come. Mackensie loves to play dress up! It started a few weeks ago with the simple things I had for her. Then last week we watched the Wizard of Oz, which she has fallen in love with. So we got on the computer and found a very inexperience set of costumes. They came this week and when she opened it this morning she said that they were "groovy". That's her new word. She dressed up like Dorothy and I like Glenda the good fairy (actually I can only wear the crown and carry the magic wand). Then we put the movie in and acted out the part of the movie where Dorothy lands on the wicked witch of the east or is it west and then we sang Follow the Yellow Brick Road! We then mixed and matched the rest of the costumes. And as you can see she did get a pair of rubbie slippers with the costume! We did order some Disney princess costumes today along with a Toto and basket. I LOVE BEING FOUR!!!!!

Thursday Quotes

2008-01-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

Thursday is Grandma and Mackensie day and yesterday, as always, was a fun day. The day goes very quickly and it is very hard to say goodbye at the end of the day. Yesterday somehow we ended up in the upstairs hall landing with Grandma on her back and Mackensie laying on her back ON Grandma. She looked up and noticed the smoke detector and ask what it was. That sparked a conversation about fire and what to do if her house was on fire. I told her the first thing she was to do was stay in her bed and yell for Daddy. We then talked about other things to do and she listened very intently. Then she said the sweetest thing. She said, "You know what's special about that Grandma"? "My Daddy will always save me". Oh, to have the trust and love of a four year old. Her Daddy turned 32 on the 16th and I can honestly say I have never loved him more. I am so proud of the man, the husband and Daddy that he has become. He has always been an awesome son and I believe he always will be. I can honestly say, just like Mackensie, my son will always save me. He did 32 years ago and keeps on doing it. I don't know what I did right - but I am proud of myself and especially of him for the kind of man he is. We had, and continue to have alot of help from friends and family. We thank you that. You know they say it takes a village to raise a child. I am especially happy to be a part of several villages.

Mardi Gras Girls

2007-12-29T18:43:00.000-08:00

Mackensie and Grace came down Thursday for a "fashion show". They were all dressed up, including lip gloss, and ready to go! I knew the beads I got while in New Orleans would come in handy again some day!

PLEASE TAKE A LISTEN

2007-12-29T18:32:00.000-08:00

I heard the most beautiful song on the radio today. When I got home I searched for it and found the artist's web site. The song to listen to is Cinderella. I know that it will probably bring a tear to your eye if you have children of any age, married or not. I love hearing music that says what you would say if you only knew how. I hope you enjoy it. Here is the web site address http://www.stevencurtischapman.com/thismoment.htm

Going To "SEE" Santa

2007-12-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

"Grandma did you know I went and saw Santa?" That was the question I was asked on Thursday by Mackensie. I asked her if she talked to him and she said "No, brother did the talking". Then I ask her if she cried and she said "NO". I told her how proud I was of her, you see she hasn't been willing to sit with Santa the last two years. Then Valerie gave me this picture. At first I thought that she had fibbed to me - but then I heard her words, "Grandma did you know I went and SAW Santa". She never said she sat on his lap! She sure does have the world figured out. I hope you are all having fun getting ready for Christmas. We had snow today! Wow, I don't even have my tree up yet.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY FAVORITE GIRL!

2007-10-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? On October 25th Mackensie will be four years old! Here's what she is enjoying right now. Playing games, Old Maid, Slap Jack, Go Fish, Hungry Hippo, Junior Yahtzee and playing with her BFF Grace McLaughlin. She still considers Thursday the bestest day of the week and loves to just hang out with her Grandma. We love to cook and bake together, dance, sing and be as loud as we want to be without Daddy telling us to calm down! (It's great being a four year old again). She is my greatest joy.