Kansas and Oklahoma!

I just got back from a great trip to visit family and walk down memory lane. I saw my sister, Patti, and her family. I saw cousins, and my aunt. I don't get to see them often enough so it was very special to be able to have this time with everyone. Patti is so fortunate to have all of her children within 45 minutes driving distance. They are a beautiful close knit family. They all work hard and help each other with the kids.


Patti and family


Patti and her husband, Larry


I had fun with Leslie's daughter, Gabby


Carrie holding Krissy's son, Nathan


Leslie and her kids, Christian, Gabby and Jeremiah


My niece, Krissy, and her daughter, Hannah


2 of my nieces- Sophie and her big sister, Leslie

After a couple of days, I rented a car and drove down to Oklahoma. My Aunt Rosemary came home from the nursing home to stay at my cousin, Kathie's. Rosemary was my mom's older sister. My mom died over 30 years ago- so it was Rosemary that I went to whenever I needed a mom's advice. She was in great spirits despite her health issues. My cousins, John and Suzanne, showed up for a surprise visit. I also saw Kathie and Ike's youngest daughter, Danielle, and her family. I love being connected to so many people- so many people that I love.


My cousins, John and Suzanne, came down from Wichita to visit with us at our cousins', Kathie and Ike's in Cherokee, OK


Kathie and Ike just celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary!!!


I loved having time with Rosemary


Danielle and Chad, with their children-Colton, Tabor, Sagelynn and Davin.

Before leaving Oklahoma I took the time to go down to the cemetery where my mom, grandparents and aunt and uncle are. It is a quaint country cemetary. I hadn't been there for 26 years. I also went to see the house that used to be my grandparents' then my dad's house- in Enid. It was a very reflective and spiritual day for me.


Just like something in the movies- a true country cemetery.


These guys are right next to the cemetary.


This is the house that I grew up going to visit my grandparents in- then my dad lived there before he died.

After my visit to Oklahoma I went on back to Patti's for one night. It was such a great visit. I am back to work- getting ready for my next trip in 10 days to go see Ian and his family. I loved seeing my sister, her family, my cousins and my aunt. It makes me sad that we live so far apart. I am so grateful to have such a loving family.


Saying good-by to my sister at the airport.

Valentine's and 4 Days with Kenzie!

Valentine's was pretty low key for me... Cute candies on my desk from co-workers.... and that was about it ---Or at least it was until I got flowers at work from Ian, Anayansi, Reagan, and Jenna. Tulips are my favorite too!! They are so beautiful- I even brought them home and took them with me to Brooke's since I was going to be gone for 4 days, I wanted to enjoy them completely. How lucky am I?????



So---------- What goes non-stop from sunup to way past sundown, never stops asking why, never ( I mean NEVER) sits still, has a crazy imagination, sings constantly, and has the cutest giggle around? Anyone that knows her knows I am talking about my precious little granddaughter, McKenzie. She is a bundle of love. Brooke, Evan and Brynn went up to Seattle for 4 days. She kept reminding me "It's just you and me, Grandma!" We did puzzles, played games, did crafts, went shopping, went out to lunch, played grocery store, painted ceramics at a craft store, and read a ton of books. We "heart attacked" Brooke and Evan's bedroom (put hearts we made up all over their room) and also made a cake and cupcakes for their homecoming. I am exhausted!!! But it was a blast. I laughed constantly! She is one hilarious kid. I wrote a few things down that she said - so I wouldn't forget.... like-- "Grandma- what is under the street? the earth?", "I think my dad would let me get out of bed" (this was said at 10pm....), When playing grocery store- after she gave me my change back- she said "thank you! Have a nice day!", and a heart breaker when she said "will I be 4 when my mom gets home?" I could go on and on....It was so fun. I love that kid! Now- back to work for a few days ( to get some rest!!). Then I am off to Kansas to see my sister, Patti, and her family, and then Oklahoma for a few days to see my Aunt Rosemary.

We played games


We did puzzles


We went to church


We walked in the rain.


We made hearts.


We went to Chevy's for lunch.


SSSSHHHHHHH!!! Don't tell mom and dad we ate cupcakes in the morning!

Happy Birthday Brooke and Leigh!!!!!!

Today is my beautiful daughter, Brooke's, birthday!!! Happy Birthday honey. I love you with all my heart and hope your year to come is the best ever. You are the best mother and wife and daughter!!! I wish I could get over there for the day but will see you this weekend- at least on the way to take you and Evan to the airport!!! From a quiet little baby to a strong willed child to an awesome athlete to an amazing woman (and still the athlete) and mother. I am so proud to have you as my daughter!!!!

Happy Birthday to my sister Leigh!!!! I also wish I could be in Houston with you for your birthday!!! You have been the best example of being positive in no matter what the challenges. You have always been there for me. A great friend and a great big sis. I hope you have a great day!! Just know that I am thinking of you and miss you!!


2 of my sisters, Leigh and Patti

25 REASONS I OWE MY MOTHER

Thanks to Lynn for sending this to me. I know I am guilty of having used many of these - but especially #s 19 and 25!!!

25 REASONS I OWE MY MOTHER

1. My mother taught me TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
'If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning.'

2. My mother taught me RELIGION.
'You better pray that will come out of the carpet.'

3. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL .
'If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!'

4. My mother taught me LOGIC.
' Because I said so, that's why.'

5. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC .
'If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me.'

6. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
'Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident.'

7. My mother taught me IRONY
'Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about.'

8. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
'Shut your mouth and eat your supper.'

9. My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM .
'Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!'

10. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
'You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone.'

11. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
'This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it.'

12. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.
'If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!'

13. My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
'I brought you into this world, and I can take you out.'

14. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.
'Stop acting like your father!'

15. My mother taught me about ENVY.
'There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do.'

16. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
'Just wait until we get home.'

17. My mother taught me about RECEIVING .
'You are going to get it when you get home!'

18. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
'If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way.'

19. My mother taught me ESP.
'Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?'

20. My mother taught me HUMOR.
'When that lawn mower cuts off your foot, don't come running to me.'

21. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
'If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up.'

22. My mother taught me GENETICS.
'You're just like your father.'

23. My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
'Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?'

24. My mother taught me WISDOM.
'When you get to be my age, you'll understand.'

25. And my favorite: My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
'One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you.'

Back to my routine......

After 2 weeks of pretending like Cami lives in California- they are now back in Stockholm and I will go back to work in the morning. I worked some while Cami and Klas were here but I managed to get a few days off. It was so nice to have them here. Lots of talks, lots of laughs, too much food, and wedding plans... They managed to get a lot done in 2 weeks so I think it was a successful trip. Now the countdown begins.... 6 months, 2 weeks and 6 days until the big day! I am not sure yet when I will get out there.


On our way to the airport.


We stopped and had lunch with Brooke's family on the way to the airport.

After taking Cami and Klas to the airport I went on over to Brooke and Evan's. It was a short but great visit. Brynn has a cough but for the most part was still her smiley self. It was fun to see McKenzie go to Primary this morning- to her 3-year-old Sunday School class. They had substitute teachers today which she was not happy about--so I ended up staying with her. But it worked out and she had fun.

Ruby and Jade were glad to see me when I got home this evening. Poor cats! They pretty much think they live alone. Thank goodness for Judy and Hailey who come over to feed them every day when I am gone. I am actually looking forward to work (what????). So much to catch up on. I am so thankful the weather has been pretty wonderful these past two weeks. In Stockholm they are now up to about 6 hours a day of daylight and the temp is up to about 32 degrees! I sure take California weather for granted.

Party time!

I have had the most fun past 4 days!!! Cami and Klas got into San Francisco last Thursday and stayed at Brooke and Evan's for 2 nights. Then on Saturday I went over to Brooke's to see everyone. After spending a fun lunch at Brooke's, Cami, Klas and I headed off to Pleasanton for their engagement party that was happening that night at friends', Marsha and Greg's. It was a fantastic evening with friends and family. Everyone there got to meet Klas- he was charming! Everyone kept telling me how perfect he is for Cami-- which he is! There was a lot of food, laughter, little kids and babies, and wonderful conversations.


Klas made fast friends with Brynn!


Cami and Klas looking fabulous at their engagement party!


The guests of honor answering questions.


Lifelong friends, the Vasquez Family and Mike Zahuta with Cami and Klas.


Having a great time listening to the answers to the questions!


Cami has known Maryrose since they were both 6 years old!

Sunday was a quiet down time day- everyone was so tired after the long day on Saturday. We had a great day at Chrissie and Bill's. The sunshine was wonderful- the warm weather has been so rejuvenating- especially for Cami and Klas who are in the dead of winter back in Stockholm.

Klas enjoyed playing with Ivy, Brianna's daughter

I took Monday and Tuesday off since Cami is here... so not going to work was a treat in itself!! Monday we went to San Francisco Zoo with Brooke's family. Another day in paradise with amazing weather!! I had so much fun with McKenzie and Brynn too at the zoo. Kenzie was afraid of the goats in the petting zoo.... but from a distance she loved all the other animals. After leaving the zoo and saying good-by to Brooke's family- Cami, Klas and I headed over to the beach- just across the road from the zoo. I have said it before but the ocean fills my soul! The warm weather and beautiful ocean was perfect. After driving back to Sacramento- we went to dinner at Kelly and Marcus's, who weren't able to come to the engagement party. It was fun to catch up with them and spend time with their family.


Evan and McKenzie checking out the giraffes


Brynn was all smiles as usual!


Family pic at the zoo.


Cami made friends with the goats!


After the zoo we went to the beach.


It was an absolutely gorgeous day!!!

Today was a landmark day!!! We went to lunch with friends of mine from work. Everyone hears me talk about Cami and Klas and it gave them a chance to meet them. Then after lunch Cami and I went off to look at wedding dresses. Lo and behold-- she found the dress!!!!! We are so excited! It is absolutely gorgeous and fits her personality exactly! We didn't really expect that to happen but I was dying to be involved somehow since most plans will be made 7,000 miles away... so we thought we would go look at dresses. She knew sort of what she wanted and had already looked at some. I can't spoil the surprise so I there will be no description of the dress. For those of you that can't come to Sweden in August - you will have to look at my blog after the wedding!!!

Tomorrow is back to work. Cami and Klas have places to go and people to see. So for a few days it is back to reality for me. But I will see them some more next week. I am in heaven when I can be with my kids. It is especially fun for me to have Cami and Klas with Brooke and her family all at the same time. I guess with Ian in Dallas, Cami is Sweden, and Brooke in Menlo Park the times I will have them all together will be far and few between. For now I have the wedding to look forward to for that! I just hate that my job interferes with my personal life!! When I win the lottery or more realistically, when I retire, I will be able to have that freendom. For now I will take what I can get as far as time with my kids.

Cami is coming!!

I have been too busy with work and not a lot going on otherwise these past 2 weeks....... I have been able to see some great movies- Doubt, Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons, Seven Pounds. Last Saturday before I went to work for a couple of hours I had fun going to my friends', Bryan and Lisa, son's birthday party! He is so adorable. He turned 3. Every present he opened he said "Oh My Goodness!!!" I am so fortunate to have them as friends- they are a wonderful family. The kids made their own pizzas and had a blast!


Ayden making his pizza!


Lisa with Bryan while we were singing Happy Birthday!

This week I will be putting in the hours but have a few days off next week- Cami and Klas are coming to California! They will be in the States for 2 weeks. Part of that time they will go to Texas so that Klas can meet Ian and his family. So I am very excited- we will be talking wedding, wedding, wedding!!