Holladay Friends

Jane, Trish, Michelle, Marianne, Joey, Cindy, and Elaina
(I have to put a disclaimer on this photo. I had just gotten back from a little league football game in the pouring rain.)

Saturday, I got together with some friends from my childhood (or teenager-hood). We all grew up in the Holladay area. These are friends from the Holladay 10th and 26th ward. Several were unable to attend, but those of us in attendance had a great time catching up and reminiscing.

These are some friends that I don’t see often, but when I do, it is as if nothing has changed. We all still seem to think we are as young as ever.

I was reminded of how unpredictable life can be. Who would have ever imagined that two of the seven of us present would be widows, while still in our forties? Who would have imagined some of the challenges, and difficulties people in this group have experienced in such a short life-time.

Difficulties aside, everyone is happy and enjoying life to its fullest, and today we are enjoying our long lasting friendships.

Colors

Halloween Dance


Preparations ~ Thanks to my many friends for letting me borrow their Halloween decorations. The decorations looked great!

At Katelyn's request, I made my kids favorite sweet and sour chicken for dinner.....70 pieces to be exact...yikes! Katelyn wanted to make sure we had enough for the buff men in the group.
Katelyn and her date Ty Hayes, with their group, the color blue.

Lots of colors, lots of cute couples, and lots of fun!

The Woes of Skateboards

Friday night I ran out through the garage to get my purse out of the car. When I opened the door from the house to the garage, it was very dark, but I decided it was such a short distance, I’d be fine without light. NOT a good idea.

As I sprinted across the garage, my feet landed on the boys’ skateboard. I took a brief, unexpected, ride, before I flew into the air, knocking down the bikes as if they were bowling pins, with the side of my face.

That may sound bad, but it actually cushioned my blow to the hard cement garage floor. I laid there in silence, dizzy, and dumbfounded from the fall. After decades (well maybe just minutes), I came to my senses, and was able to walk back into the house, still bewildered, and groggy.

I went to a movie that night, feeling slightly disoriented and light-headed, but desperately needing a night out. I thought things were fine until I began to get flu like symptoms. I was so nauseous; I spent hours feeling like I was getting a bad case of the flu. No flu.

In the morning, I felt like I had run a marathon. My legs, arms, back, neck, head, every part of my body hurt.

I have fully recovered from my little mishap, but after this, and Mike breaking his ankle on a skateboard in July, I am convinced that our family should be a skateboard-free family.

Tina The Tumor

Sarah posing the night before surgery. Sarah, and Julie Keyes (Julie is 19 weeks pregnant). Sarah gets her first baby gift from Megan Larsen.
Pre-surgery: Sarah begged not to wear the "ugly hospital socks", she even brought her own from home. It was a "no go".
Tina is born (6 litters of fluid were drained before they could remove Tina).
Tina and the surgeon's hand.
Post surgery: Best Friends by her side, visitors, flowers, feeling crummy, and finally going home.
Comparison shot: Pre-Tina; Post Tina (I made her wear the same shirt).

Sarah has been complaining about her protruding stomach for some time. We have seen numerous doctors who believed it was a result of exercising improperly, thus the stomach muscles have formed outward. We accepted this explanation for a couple years, until recently, when Sarah googled the causes of a protruding stomach, and informed me that she may have a fibrous tumor. The next day I made two appointments , with two different doctors, to have her examined (different than the doctors she had previously seen). The appointments were several weeks out.

In the meantime, she met with her friend's dad (who is a physician) who immediately requested an ultrasound. On September 15, she went to the IHC hospital for an ultrasound on her lower and upper abdomen. The ultrasound results revealed a 19 centimeter tumor, that was attached to her ovary. It was so large that it was backing one of her kidneys with fluid.

Sarah laughed and laughed as we sat in the "bad news" room, getting her results. I was in shock, and quiet terrified. I quickly called my OB, who, when he saw the results, wanted to see her the next day.

The next day we met with the OB who informed us, that the tumor was as large as a small watermelon. The tumor was either attached to or leaning against the ureter, and kidney. He wouldn't know exactly what it was attached to until he began the surgery. He did know that it was attached to an ovary, and that the ovary would most likely would have to be removed. He informed us that it was important to dissect the tumor off of the things it was attached to, and get it out in one piece, in case there were cancer cells in it. Surgery was set for September 30th.

A CA 125 blood test was performed. If the test came back "normal", there was little chance of the tumor being malignant. If it was elevated, the chance was greater. Early the next week, her results came back showing her level to be slightly elevated.

Even with the blood results, Sarah maintained a positive, cheerful, outlook. She was always laughing, joking, and even named her tumor - Tina. I tried to follow her example, but wasn't very successful.

Surgery went better than expected. He removed the tumor that was larger than expected, draining 6 litters of fluid out of it before he removed it from her tiny little body. He removed 4 other small cysts, reconstructed her ovary, and removed the fallopian tube that was engulfed in the tumor. The surgeon informed us that based on the amount of fluid that was drained, and by other examination, he would be very surprised if pathology came back showing a malignant tumor.

Sarah remained to good spirit even up to the very end. The surgeon said she was laughing and joking with them, up until the time the anesthesia kicked it. What a trooper!

She is doing remarkable well, considering just having major surgery. Pathology came back, and it was a non malignant tumor. Cancer free yay!

We are so grateful for the many prayers, fasting, and the amazing priesthood blessing that she received prior to her surgery. We felt that the Lord blessed us, and watched over Sarah during this difficult time. What a blessing it is for us to have such wonderful friends and family that continue to support us as we experience life's bumps along the way.

Homecoming Senior Year

Senior Year Homecoming with Coulter Crowell

The homecoming festivities began the night before with a group activity to the Haunted Corn Field in Alpine. Anyone who knows Katelyn, knows that she scares easily. The scary creatures at the Haunted Corn Field must have felt those vibes. They seemed to focus completely on the most scared person in the group, namely Katelyn. I think she may have made a public spectacle out of herself, but was a good sport and had a good time anyway.

Saturday night was homecoming. They all went to the Olive Garden for dinner, and of course the homecoming dance was held at Bountiful High.

She looked beautiful, and had a wonderful time.

Labor Day Weekend

On Labor Day, we decided to go on a hike in our very own Bountiful mountains (or hills, depends on who you ask). We took a very popular hike, but one I have never been on before, up Hollbrook Canyon.

It was a beautiful hike with lush, flourishing, greenery, lining the narrow trail. There was a picturesque stream that followed the trail, where we found hikers paused to catch fish with their bear hands. I likened our hike to our hike to Secret Falls in Kauai, but there was no consensus.


Our hike ended here due to a certain family members need to wear cute shoes instead of practical ones. If you look closely, you might be able to determine who that might be. The same family member had a slight melt down and can be seen hiding in the greenery. Or, better yet, maybe this person was playing a fun game of Where is Waldo, and just forgot to inform us. Whatever the case, we cut our hike a tad short.

We ended our excursion at a Burger Establishment, to nullify all our expended calories.

Ben's Baptism

Invitation to Ben's Baptism

Baptism Pictures by Jodi Fulks Photography
Quinn & Ben

Ben's baptism came with much anticipation. Ben talked about his baptism only days after Steve's passing. Ben had just turned 6 two days before Steve passed away, but many of his questions and thoughts were about his baptism. I think his questions were Ben's way of expressing his feelings about the loss of his dad. He missed him, and continues to miss him, so much.

Ben wanted to know who was going to baptize him. My heart broke into a million pieces, as I quietly told him he could choose whoever he wanted to baptize him. He wanted his big brother, Michael, to baptize him. What a great choice that would have been. However, I knew that if we baptized him in September of 2010, that Mike wouldn't be old enough to perform that ordinance.

Eight months after Steve's passing Meagan married Quinn. Quinn is such a delight to have in our family. He quickly become an important part of our family, and has been like a brother to Ben. As the time for baptism approached, it was an easy choice for Ben to choose Quinn to baptize him, and Grandpa Brown to confirm him. Two of his favorite men in his life were able to participate in the ordiances on this special day.

As Ben's baptism grew closer I began to be filled with anxiety about the day. I wanted it to be a perfect day for Ben, but I knew we would miss Steve's presence.

We were so blessed to have so many wonderful friends and family members in attendance at Ben's baptism. I'm not sure if I stopped crying the entire time. My heart broke as I watched all the baptism candidates sitting next to their dads.

Our home teacher talked at the service. He gave a great talk on baptism, but also talked about ministering angels, (specifically Steve) that were present. You could feel Steve's presence, you knew he was there watching, and so proud of Ben.

Quinn did a great job baptizing Ben, and Steve's dad gave a wonderful confirmation. Meagan and I were able to say a few words after the ordinances were performed. It was a very spiritual day for our family. We were so grateful to be able to share it with great friends and family.

Afterwords, we were able to celebrate at our house. The festivities were great! I hope with all my heart, that Ben will always remember his baptism as a happy, special day.

Missing Him

Lake Como ~ Italy

Flaming Gorge with the Girls'

Hunting with Mike

The Outdoors with Ben

Some days are so difficult, all you can do is just put one foot in front of the other. It is one of those days. It has been two years since the passing of my wonderful husband, and my children’s father. Time has not healed my broken heart.

It has been a very emotional day for me. I couldn't seem to pull it together today.

I was listening to the girls’ play their harps, and became so overcome with emotion. They were playing primary songs that are tender and dear to me. Harp music is heavenly to me. I keep thinking that there must be harpist playing angelic music on fluffy white clouds in heaven. Maybe it’s not exactly like that. Maybe it's just my imagination or my subconscious desire. I hope there is at least some kind of music in heaven.

I remember 2 years ago tonight when I was playing hymns on the piano waiting for Steve to change and come downstairs for dinner, when I heard, “Cindy, come quick, I’m not feeling so well.” I ran to the stairs and saw Steve’s frightened face as he quickly instructed us to call 911, and hobbled down the stairs. I yelled for Meagan to come help. She at least had some medical training. We made him comfortable at the bottom of the stairs, and talked to him, until the EMT’s arrived. Steve continued to give us instructions, and told us who to call and what to do. He wanted a priesthood blessing.

When the EMT’s arrived things took a turn for the worse. We were all quickly ushered into the kitchen, while they worked on Steve. We gathered together, as I prayed with all my heart with my children that all would be well. I think I was selfishly praying for what I wanted, rather than the Lord’s will. I wanted so desperately for Steve to be alright. I couldn't imagine life without him. I have never felt so frightened and helpless in my whole life.

At the hospital Steve received a priesthood blessing. I couldn't go in. They would only allow two people back at a time. I'm not sure what was said, but Steve's received his final wish, a priesthood blessing. I desperately wanted a miracle, but it was not to be. It states in D&C 42:48 “And again, it shall come to pass that he that hath faith in me to be healed, and is not appointed unto death, shall be healed.” I have to believe that it was his time to move on.

Even though I have faith, and a strong belief system, it is still difficult. I keep hoping and wishing that he would walk through the door and come home. We miss him every day. I am grateful to know that this is a temporary separation, and that we will be with again.

First Day of School Pictures

Ben: 2nd Grade at Valley View Elementary with Mrs. Whitesides.

Lizzy: 6th grade at Valley View Elementary with Mrs. Fararri.

Mike: Sophmore Bountiful High. He has to wear a boot to school the first day. I'm sure he loves that. His ankle ended up being broken rather than sprained. He is 5'- 9", wow has he grown.

Katelyn: Senior Year at Bountiful High.

Stormy Days

Today would be a good day to wait out the storm, and let it pass. It is the first day of school, a difficult day. The first day of school is filled with intense sadness for me. It was on the first day of school 2 years ago that Steve suddenly passed away.

Instead of focusing on our incredible loss, I wanted to put on a happy face and celebrate my baby boy’s 8th birthday. Today is Ben's birthday. There is nothing more important to me today, than making sure his birthday is great. What a blessing he has been in my life. He brings me such joy and happiness.

We started out the morning with scriptures, family prayer and our traditional “big breakfast”. During family prayer, I prayed that we would be blessed with peace and comfort. I need extra strength to get through this day and make the cutest little 8 year old happy.

The kids seem alright today. They all went to school. I’m not sure if Ben remembers this day the way I do. I hope not.

Someone came to our door this afternoon with flowers for me. Ben answered the door and I was right behind him. The person gave me flowers, and a hug. Not many words were exchanged, just tears, the words go unspoken.

Ben couldn't understand why I got flowers today. I haven’t wanted to tell him.

I could feel Steve's presence around us today. Even though my heart felt like it was broken in thousand little pieces, I felt peace and comfort. I felt like he was walking beside us.

Ben said he had a dream last night about Steve. He said that his dad told him, “Happy Birthday”, and that he was proud of him for playing football. That’s all he could remember. I dream about him too. They are peaceful dreams, that seem so real to me.

We continued to celebrate Ben’s birthday throughout the day, trying to stay focused on his wonderful life, rather than our incredible loss.

Ben said it was the BEST birthday ever. I am blessed.

Ben is turning 8

Today Ben had a birthday party to celebrate his up-coming birthday on Monday. We went to the Sky Box at the Gateway. I LOVED this party! The kids had fun, eating pizza, playing in the arcade, and eating cake. They all got along so well. They were very kind and inclusive. I always appreciate that. I loved watching these 8 little boys play together.

We had a party room with a plasma TV to watch sports on while they dined on fine cheese and pepperoni pizza. After they had their fill of pizza, they were each given a bag of tokens to use at their discretion in the arcade room. They were so kind to each other, sharing tokens and tickets (prize tickets). I was somewhat amazed that their favorite part of the arcade was......THE PRIZE TICKETS. Who would have thought that those silly penny prizes would become so valuable. I couldn't stop laughing to myself about the complete obsession with the tickets.

Alex, Josh, Shad, Mitch, Ben, Jon-o, Dallas, and Luke.
The ticket obsession! Love the stashes (silly prizes). I had to laugh at the top left picture of Ben and Dallas playing a game that was out of order. I don't think they even noticed that it was out of order.

Thanks to Kate, Lizzy, and Mike for helping with a fun party!

Last Chance

It was our last chance to go boating at Pineview before school starts. It was a beautiful day, with the sun shinning brightly. The water was a little choppy, but the kids got in some fancy wake boarding before the water became unbearable. Yes, you heard it right, the kids only wake boarded today. I'm not sure if Mr. Brown would approve, he loved the kids to ski. They still love to ski, but wake boarding was our new toy this summer.

We have tried to lure, bribe, (and other tactics) to get Ben into the water this summer but have not been successful. Each boating trip, Ben has refused to get in the water. I enrolled him in swim lessons these past two weeks, in hopes that it would help. I think it worked. We FINALLY had success with getting Ben into the water. Once he finally got in, his confidence level rose and he became a lean, mean, swimming machine. He jumped off the back of the boat, the bow of the boat, and went tubing.....SWEET SUCCESS!

Marrissa, Jordan, Lizzy, Katelyn, Sarah, and Mike.

Ben finally getting his courage up, and Helen wake boarding.

Sarah and Jordan, the three tubers, brothers, and lunch.

I must say, in my humble opinion, the boat driver does such an excellent job pulling skiers, tubers, and wake boarders.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

Ben has been SO excited about football. He will be 8 at the end of this month, so he barely makes the cut off to play football this year. He has been looking forward to this for years. He LOVES football, and will play anywhere, any time.

A new football was on his list of necessities to have prior to beginning football. At night when I would go to his room to check on him, I would see arm wrapped fondly around his new football that was sleeping with him. It made me smile.

The 8-9 year old's have been conditioning for football Monday through Thursday 6-8. I thought Ben would come home complaining and tired. Instead, he is excited and full of energy. He can't wait for the next day. Tonight was the first night they got to "dress" for football. What a happy boy!

Cherry Hill

It is so sad to see summer quickly coming to an end. I love summer! We are down to the last week and a half. We are trying to squeeze in as much last minute fun as we can. Today we went to Cherry Hill with the Fulk Family. We love those girls! We had so much fun!

Pirate Ship
Lazy river, and hanging out.
Magic Matt's.
Cardiac Canyon.

Back To School Shopping

This year, ALL of the kids wanted Sarah's help in the selection process for back to school clothes. Should I be offended that they think Sarah is cooler, and has better taste than me? Ummm...nope! The boys' weren't very excited about our adventure, but we insisted the come along.

We have only just begun.

Are we done yet?
Goofing around.