Brad & Dana's Most Excellent Adventure

We're expecting . . . . .

2012-02-07T12:31:00.000-08:00

a new grandbaby! Yippee!

Happy Birthday Oakley, we LOVE you!

2012-01-23T14:57:00.000-08:00

My New Years Resolution

2012-01-23T14:46:00.001-08:00

Gotta love a kids meal . . . .

2012-01-11T07:51:00.000-08:00

It just brings a smile to your face, and makes you feel like a king and queen for a day.

Finally, a dusting of SNOW!

2012-01-07T16:11:00.000-08:00

The first snowfall of Winter has been a long time coming. We had a small taste of it this morning. Not enough for much of a snowman, but the grand kids tried anyway. After putting in a carrot for the nose, and raisins for eyes, Dayton asked, "When will the snowman talk?". We laughed, and Amy said, "He's watched way too much Frosty the Snowman this Christmas season. True, very true!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T18:26:00.000-08:00

And did I forget to mention how much I love these little gifts from Heaven?

Once again, a GREAT Christmas

2011-12-26T18:06:00.001-08:00

It's all about family, fun, and remembering the reason for the season. Our traditional family Christmas Eve party was memorable,and a sabbath day Christmas celebration is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas. Thanks kids, and grandkids for making our Christmas special!
Oakley's ready for some Family Christmas Fun!
Christmas Eve dinner, Sam and Shawnee.
Kurtley and Megan
Christmas Karaoke.
The traditional, and deadly family Christmas wrap game!
A visit from Santa during our Family party.
Ring a round the Rosie with Santa.
Santa left Dayton a jeep just like Grandpas, and in Grandpas favorite color!Today is December 26th, and the Christmas decorations are officially boxed and put away until next year!

With LOVE

2011-12-05T19:31:00.000-08:00

We're so grateful for her example, her unconditional love, and devotion to each and every one of us. What an incredible lady. We will miss you Eve . . . .

Just in Case.....

2011-11-26T19:44:00.001-08:00

Just in case Santa is still looking for toymakers, he may want to look OUR WAY! Shawnee and I took a page out of the Mans Man book and put together this awesome dollhouse today for the grandkids! And this was NO easy project, with over 100 parts and pieces, we deserve to be proud as punch of ourselves.

This christmas - kiribati style

2011-11-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

This is the Christmas video our missionaries made for us while we were in the mission. Just wanted to share it . . . .

Happy Holidays

2011-11-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, you do hear Christmas music! Just ask my kids, I always take my Christmas CD's out the day after Halloween. I love the music, the holiday, and the feeling of Christmas. And I only have 51 days to enjoy it! Merry Christmas.

Our Annual Family Fear Factor Party

2011-11-01T10:38:00.000-07:00

Just sippin blood!
It's always fun to get together with family, but our annual "Family Fear Factor" is a highlight of the year!
Mama birds, and baby birds retreiving worms!
Megan and Dayton.
Parker & Lisa
Jordan & Lindsay as each other. Jordan, the dance teacher, and Lindsay the Accountant.
Sam & Shawnee aka Leprechaun and his pot of gold.
Jamie, Rob, Haws (The bun maker, and two little buns in the oven!)

Beetle juice challenge.
Lindsay and Parker fight to win the Ding Bat stack.
Taylor and Shawnee win the Mummy Wrap challenge.

Mission Memories

2011-10-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

I love Conference! And, to kick off Conference weekend, we begin with our Mission reunion. We enjoy lunch at our home with all of our incredible Senior Missionaries, followed by a trip to the Temple, and then an evening of visiting with all of our fabulous missionaries. What a great way to invite the spirit for conference. I was too busy entertaining to take pics of our gathering at night, but here are our Senior missionaries at lunch. JoJo (from Majuro,and our office, mission home employee), Sister Teichert, Elder and Sister Lytle, Elder and Sister Bell, Elder and Sister Crandall.
Elder and Sister Hewstone, and Elder Phippen.
Elder and Sister Phippen.
Sister Steed, Elder Steed, and Elder and Sister Moser.

Aaaah, Rest and Relaxation . . . . .

2011-10-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

Just what the Doctor ordered- a good book, the warm sun, and comfy lounge chair on the ship, and plenty of time to do absolutely nothing except relax! Woo hoo!
Chillin in Key West.
The turtle farm, grand cayman islands.

Swimming with the stingrays in Grand Cayman Islands
Hiking the Dunns River Falls in Jamaica.
Do we really have to go home tomorrow?

Happy Birthday Dayton!

2011-10-02T19:26:00.000-07:00

It's so fun to celebrate a birthday!
Haws checks out Daytons favorite gift -a gun!
Jersey tries out Daytons birthday scooter and spiderman helmet.
Parker shows the grandkids how to play with parachute man.
Happy Birthday Dayton, we sure love you!

2011-09-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

We've had our wonderful friends from the mission, the Hewstones visiting from Australia. We took them South to Zions National Park. It was a beautiful day!
God's creations are incredible!
Our hike up the Narrows. Can't wait to take the trail again.

People Who Inspire Me!

2011-09-16T12:45:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of me and my cute sis-in-law Cheryl in Midway. I helped her with a golf tourney to benefit Autism. She is the President of the Utah Autism Society, and a huge advocate for everyone touched by Autism. She is well known by lawmakers, schools, and families with Autistic children. She inspires me! For info on what she has dedicated her life to, go to www.autismcouncilofutah.org. You're the best!

Jersey Turns 2 years old

2011-07-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

I had to share these absolutely darling pictures of our grandaughter Jersey on her 2nd bithday. We are so grateful for these wonderful little people in our lives.

Aaaah, There's Nothing Like Vacation . . . . .

2011-06-21T17:05:00.000-07:00

to melt away the stress!!
We completely checked out of reality for a week.
We did a lot of fun, exciting, and crazy things in Mexico . . . . .

We spent lots of time at the beach.

We spent lots of time in the ocean, and the pool.

We sipped on lots of tropical smoothies.
It was a wonderful week in Puerto Vallarta.

Grandpa's Little Fix It Man

2011-05-17T12:11:00.000-07:00

Dayton loves to help his grandpa work. He likes to help him put the shelves together, build a thing-a-ma-jiggy to hold the top to the jeep, and then take a ride in the jeep to work. It's a guy thing!
All tuckered out after all that work in the garage with papa.

Happy Graduation Hadley

2011-05-17T12:07:00.000-07:00

It's on to bigger and better things for Hadley. She graduated from pre-school today!

Easter Joy

2011-05-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

There is a wonderful feeling of gratitude and thanksgiving that comes during the Easter season. The focus on our Savior, and the opportunity for new beginnings brings a peace, and joy in this earthly life. What a blessing it is to share this earthly journey with wonderful children and grandchildren. Easter joy, Easter blessings.

Yippee, We're Back at the MTC!

2011-04-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

Gotta love those missionaries! It's a great calling.

It's been a Great Day!

2011-04-09T15:43:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day. Taylor was baptized, and Oakley was blessed. What a wonderful event, and opportunity to gather as a family. Thanks Amy, Tyler, Taylor, and Oakley for the fun and special day.

We Love You Taylor!

2011-04-08T11:54:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is Taylor's baptism day! We can't believe she has just turned 8 years old. We are so proud of you Taylor and your decision to be baptized. You are a blessing in our lives. We love you.

Mission Reunion Fun

2011-04-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

It was a wonderful weekend, with important counsel and direction from Prophets and Apostles at Conference, and a reunion with missionaries from the Marshall Islands, Majuro Mission. Thank you to everyone who came, attended the Temple, and stayed for the weekend. It was a great and memorable weekend. See you in six months!

To all missionaries who have served in the Marshall Islands, Majuro Mission!

2011-03-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

There will be a Mission Reunion hosted by President Bradley J. and Dana Smith on the first of April, 2011. We hope that every missionary (and their significant others) who has served in this wonderful mission will try to attend. We are planning an opportunity for you to associate with other missionaries, and to reflect on your wonderful missionary service. Below is the outlined schedule of events, and times. Please let every other missionary you know who served in this mission. If you can attend, please leave a comment so that we can include you in our count for food.
Friday, April 1, noon -Sr. Missionaries luncheon at the home of Brad and Dana Smith
Friday, April 1, 3:30 p.m. - Temple Session at the Mount Timpanogas Temple
Friday, April 1, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. - Mission Reunion at the Manila 7th Ward BuildingHope to see you all there!!

A Year Later . . . .

2011-02-18T20:20:00.000-08:00

This week we celebrate the one year anniversary of Megans accident. We feel grateful for her second chance, and the wonderful progress she has made this year as she works hard to get better. We love you Megs and Dayton!

I love being Grandma!

2011-02-12T19:41:00.000-08:00

What to do in dreary Winter Months . . . . .

2011-02-07T08:28:00.000-08:00

When Shawnee turned five, we had a "tea party" birthday party. She and her friends dressed up in their most beautiful "tea party" hats and gloves, and have always enjoyed the memory of that day. Shawnee and I decided to invite her friends together again, fifteen years later, along with Mom's (who are all my friends) and have another "tea party". We served our strawberry lemonade tea, and lunch, and had so much fun. It brightened the smog filled, dreary month of February with good food and friends!

Here are our fun, framed pictures of Moms & Daughters.

Shawnee and I are wearing my great grandmothers everyday hats.
It was a fabulous get together with friends!

February - A Month to Celebrate LOVE

2011-02-07T08:22:00.001-08:00

Every time I look at my honey, I'm reminded that the best decision I've ever made was to marry him! Happy Valentines to MY BEST Man!

A NEW Grandbaby

2011-01-27T09:46:00.000-08:00

We have a new grandbaby! Amy delivered an 8 lb. 15 oz. girl this morning. None of us knew if it would be a girl or a boy, and so Taylor and Hadley were prepared with the names "Jack or Jill". She's beautiful, and we are all so blessed to have a new little one in the family.
Amy worked yesterday and then she and Tyler went to the BYU -San Diego game. With all the noise in the Marriott Center, I'm sure this baby thought the cheering and shouting signaled her arrival!
She's a really chubby little girl with lots of dark hair.
What a great big sister Taylor will be to this new little one.
Hadley wants to call the baby, Babycakes!Welcome Baby Flynn!!

No Bones About It

2011-01-20T16:40:00.000-08:00

No Bones About it, the Dinosaur Museum at Thanksgiving Point is kid friendly. We took the kids last Saturday, and they had a blast investigating, participating, and playing with the big boned creatures from the past. And, of course there's always fun involved when the grandkids spend time together.

Age Verified!!

2011-01-11T15:25:00.000-08:00

Taylor had a friend over after school today.
Taylor said to me, "Grandma, you look really young!"
Turning to her friend, Taylor says, "Erica, don't you think my grandma looks young?"
Erica says, "No, she's old, look at her wrinkles!"
Yup, age verified. Oh well, chalk it up to life experience I guess.
Kids are too funny.

WELCOME 2011

2011-01-09T22:05:00.000-08:00

Good riddance 2010! I'm a much older woman because of you! I'm looking forward to 2011, and hoping I can regain my youthful energy and outlook on life. Today after Sunday dinner, Shawnee wanted to plan a family vacation. This is how it went. . . .

Shawnee; Lets go to Havasupi this summer!
Me; NO, you'll never get your Dad and I there. To treacherous!
Shawnee; You can fly in by helicopter.
Me; Yeah, right! Nope.
Shawnee; I know, lets do a family camping trip!
Me; Yuk. Whenever I get back from camping, I'm ready for a vacation I'm so exhausted.
Shawnee; You love camping!
Me; No, I just pretended to, because I had to go to twenty-something years of girls camp.
Shawnee; What about renting a houseboat in Lake Powell?
Me; I'd never enjoy it. I'd worry the whole time about the grandkids falling off the boat, or heat stroke.
Shawnee; Hadley, do you want to go with Nana & Papa on vacation to the Rest Home?
Hadley; YES!
Me; Wow, now that sounds relaxing, with a capital REST! Lets do it!!

2010-12-27T18:19:00.000-08:00

Once again, our Christmas Eve tradition was wonderful. We enjoyed a great dinner, a special reminder of the reason for the season, some joyful caroling, while the grandkids did some of their own jingle bell rock, and lots of fun time together. We only wish Brad felt a little bit better. But, we had a great time, as always, getting together with family celebrating the season. Grandma D knitted slouch socks for all of the kids and grandkids! ! We're a very competitive family . . . We played some mean ping pong, with the usual winners (Lindsay & Shawnee doing their victory dance) Santa came to visit as he made his rounds, and took the time to pose for pictures and play "ring around the rosies" with the kiddies.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!

MAD HATTERS

2010-12-18T15:49:00.000-08:00

Brad purchased this lovely yellow hat, against my better judgement, and threats that he never ever wear it in public! It stays hidden most of the time. He brings it out on special occasions,like meeting one of our childrens friends for the first time. And, of course, wouldn't you know that Sam owned the same hat, only in a different color. Yes, they are quite a twosome in their interesting hats!

I think I'll let him keep it, it looks sooo cute on Dayton!

TAH DAH! Merry Christmas to Me!

2010-12-18T15:28:00.000-08:00

Five years ago we moved into our new home with six bedrooms. Every bedroom was occupied. They quickly became unoccupied as our children married and moved away. When we gather together for get-togethers now, we seem to be busting at the seams. So, we decided to tear down a bedroom, and expand our gathering place. Just a little home makeover, in December!

Dayton watches the workers, with tool box in hand, wondering what he can do to help.
Two weeks later, the dust is gone, and the finished product is just what we'd hoped for.

Merry Christmas to Me! Yippee!

Christmas Cookie Party with Nana

2010-12-15T16:03:00.000-08:00

Today, the grandkids and I had a great Christmas experience. We made Christmas cookies together. The two youngest lost interest fairly quickly, but Taylor and Hadley had a great time. We'll look forward to next years cookie party, and hopefully Dayton and Jersey will be a little more interested in the cutting and frosting, and not just the eating!
We put on our aprons, and prepared for the messy job at hand.

Half the fun is making a HUGE mess in Nana's house.
Jersey had her own version of cookie cutters.
Roll, roll, roll the dough.
Cookies are best with a little bit of frosting, and a LOT of sprinkles!
Hey, these are tasty!
All of the sprinkles have been vacuumed up, and the globs of frosting on the floor cleaned up and mopped, and the finished product is ready to be taken home and eaten!

Making memories with the grandkids is sure a lot of fun!

Waiting For Santa . . . .

2010-12-15T15:58:00.001-08:00

I picked Hadley up from Preschool/Daycare the other day. She was wearing her Rudolph hat, and had written a letter for Santa that I just had to share because it was soooo cute!
This is the letter Hadley dictated for her teacher, to be sent to Santa.

Christmas Can Be Painful!

2010-11-30T10:44:00.000-08:00

Our family is quickly growing, and finding a time and the right opportunity to take a picture for the family Christmas Card can be difficult! It took a LONG Time, a dozen grownups, bribery, new jammies, and FORCE, and we still didn't get everyone to cooperate at the same time for a picture. But we had a lot of fun and laughs working on it! So our Christmas Card this year is the real deal.

Our Budding Artist

2010-11-18T19:49:00.001-08:00

Cute Julie Lewis, in our ward, has been teaching an art class to kids in the area a couple times a month. Because Taylor stays with me each day after school for a couple of hours, we decided to sign her up. She loves it! And, thanks to Julie's wonderful artistic talents, Taylor is becoming quite a little artist. We are proud of you Taylor.

Title of Liberty, from the Marshall Islands

2010-11-18T19:39:00.000-08:00

We've been waiting patiently for our "stuff" to arrive from the Mission. It's finally here. We are most excited about the crate holding a carving of Captain Moroni. A man in the Marshall Islands named "Sonny Boy", took a picture of Captain Moroni and carved a four foot replica out of the trunk of a popular tree on the islands. It now stands guard in Brads office. We love it, thank you Sonny boy!

I know, I know,

2010-11-02T15:50:00.000-07:00

But I really love Christmas music! So I always pull it out as soon as the Halloween decorations are put away. It drives my kids nuts! But, I just love it! It's all about the wonderful memories it creates, and allows me to enjoy just a little longer, than just December only. So please humor me, and try to enjoy it too!!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

We had a great family halloween "Fear Factor" party. Lots of great and disgusting challenges, and family fun.
King & Queen of the party.
Cindy Loohoo and her little ones.
YeeHaw, it's Jordan, Lindsay, and Jersey.
Senior' and Seniorita
The Ninja group, Rob, Haws, and Jamie
Lisa & Parker
Jordan & Lisa digging for worms without hands.
The baby food challenge. Parker dominated, because Lindsay was completely grossed out by the thought of eating baby food.
The Gourymet Food Challenge. Gotta love that coagulated cows blood!
Our grand prize winners are: Rob "Most Fearless", Taylor "Best Costume", Amy "Best Actor", and Jamie "Party Pooper" (Poopy Diaper Challenge).

We Sure Love This Little Boy!

2010-10-04T15:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dayton! It has been so fun for us to have you live with us these past few months. You are a bright light in our lives! We love you.

Fun in Florida

2010-09-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

We spent the last four days in Tallahassee, Florida for the BYU Game. There is nothing in Tallahassee, but we had a great time anyway. We stayed in the beautiful Hotel Duval, and had a great time just hanging out together. I went with some of my kids, while Brad was in Korea on business. The game was a real disappointment, but the company was great.
We visited the Pebble Hill Plantation in Thomasville, Georgia the day before the game.
Getting ready for the game.

The whole group in front of the Stadium. Mike & Sherilyn, Me (husbandless), Sam & Shawnee, Jordan & Lindsay, Chris & Gabi, and Brett & Kellie.
Sherilyn and I make hats out of the program to get a little relief from the sun.
A beautiful, HOT, stadium holding 84,000 tomahawk chopping fans.
What a disappointing game! Actually, Sam couldn't keep the smile off his face! He's a big Florida State Fan. As soon as we landed in Provo he had his FSU hat on. Darn Seminoles.

Mo the Monkey

2010-09-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

Megan and I took Dayton to "Build a Bear" this week. He loved it, but cried when they stuffed his monkey "Mo". He thought they were hurting him! "Mo" is his new best buddy - and yes, I guess they are both Ute fans!

Yahoo!!

2010-09-05T11:08:00.001-07:00

Let the Games Begin. Go Cougars!

Too Long . . .

2010-08-31T13:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's been way too long since I have blogged. Life has been a little hectic, and uncomfortable of late. But with the approaching change of seasons, I have been thinking about the seasons of our lives. These too come and go, and become only distant memories. But the lessons learned, and experiences embraced, change our lives forever. No matter the season, family and friends are always the most important ingredient. I feel fall in the air, and a season of thanksgiving. Giving thanks for a wonderful husband, children, grandchildren, and many wonderful friends. Let the blogging begin . .

A Bicycle Built For Four

2010-07-17T20:04:00.000-07:00

Tyler put together this bicycle built for four. It was a hit!

TOE FUNNY!

2010-06-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

I forget how funny it is to raise kids! They say and do the funniest things. Hadley decided to paint her own toenails the other day. She climbed up on a very tall counter, and found a very small box containing the bright pink nail polish. She then carefully placed a towel underneath, just in case of spills. She was so proud of her work! Aren't they fabulous she asked her mom? We love you Hadley.

It's a Post we Hate to Write . . .

2010-05-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you know, if you don't already know, that Brad and I will not be returning to the Mission field. We have decided that it will be best for Megan's continued recovery to stay at home and help her through these last few steps. We hope to be able to serve again in the future. But for now, the most important work that we can do is within the walls of our home and family. We love and appreciate each one of you, and the prayers that have been offered in behalf of Megan, and our family. We will be eternally grateful for the power of prayer from so many, and for the blessings that have been poured down upon us during this difficult time.

A Mothers Day Treat

2010-05-09T20:47:00.001-07:00

Tyler made the most delicious french toast this morning, and then Taylor and Hadley served their mom breakfast in bed, and Nana & Papa too. Papa got breakfast because he may not be in Utah for Fathers Day.
And then these two darling grandaughters climbed in bed with us to eat it!
And yes, I know how unlovely I look in the morning, but they love me anyway!!

Happy Mothers Day

2010-05-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

Couldn't resist posting this picture! Tyler took the girls to Lowes today to plant a flower for their Mom (Amy) for Mothers Day. They're all decked out, like "Home Improvement". The cutest Mothers Day Picture ever!

Our St. George Get-Away

2010-05-04T17:18:00.001-07:00

We drove to St. George for a long weekend of rest and relaxation. Thanks to some very kind friends who offered us their beautiful home to stay in. The weather was cold, so we stayed inside . . .
Then it warmed up for a minute, so we ran to the pool and stayed until our lips turned blue!

Then we shut the door on the cold and played inside.
And then, we played outside again, just because we could! It was a great family get-away weekend. Thanks to our dear friends!

Happy Birthday Megan

2010-04-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Today is Megans birthday, and we celebrate not only the day of her birth, but life. How grateful we are to celebrate her 25th birthday after the events of the past two months. Happy Birthday Megan, we love you and are so grateful for you in our lives.

2010-04-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

Grandchildren are so precious! We are grateful for our four beautiful little ones. It has been fun to spend time with them these past few weeks. Here are pictures of sweet Taylor and hysterical Hadley
Darling Dayton
And adorable Jersey

Some of our Heroes

2010-04-08T20:42:00.000-07:00

After a Doctors appointment today, we dropped by the fire station to thank some of the fireman who helped Megan and Dayton the night of the accident. Some of them were not working, and we will have to visit again, but we really appreciate these wonderful people who respond to the scene of an accident. Dayton really enjoyed roaming around the garage full of firetrucks too.
Megan and Dayton are standing next to the "jaws of life" that was used to cut the car apart, so that they could get Megan and Dayton out.
Everyone at the station knew of the accident, and the miracle little Dayton was. They praised Megan for securing Dayton in his carseat properly.

It's Hard To Believe!

2010-03-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe how far Megan has come in such a short time! She still continues to heal, but is making remarkable progress. Yup, she's our MIRACLE MEGS!

Papa Pancakes

2010-03-26T20:06:00.001-07:00

It's been great having Brad home to help with Megans rehabilitation. Dayton had his first taste of Papa pancakes this week. Delicious!

Wedding Bliss

2010-03-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Parker & Lisa Smith. It was a beautiful wedding day.

Getting Better Every Day

2010-03-09T08:31:00.000-08:00

It has been three weeks since Megans accident, and she is doing fabulous! We could not hope for more than she/we have been blessed with. Physically, she continues to amaze us. The injuries to her brain and fractured skull will take a little longer to heal, but she has made so much progress, especially in the last four days. We feel so grateful to have our Megs back. She gives everything that is asked of her every day by therapists to regain her strength, and memory. We are so proud of her, and we know that she has been abundantly blessed. She has been surrounded by wonderful Doctors, nurses, and therapists who have truly loved her back to healthy! We have a new appreciation for the caregivers of the world, and for those who care for our loved ones at the scene of an accident. This is Kevin, a member of the life flight team who cared for Megan. He checks up on her regularly.

Working Hard!

2010-03-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

Each new day brings progress for Megan. The process is difficult, painful, and rehab is grueling, but she is a trooper! Work hard Megan, we love you!

Tsunami Warning

2010-02-27T15:22:00.000-08:00

I know that many of you are concerned for Brad. The Islands in our Mission are on the Tsunami Warning list. All of our missionaries are together, and accounted for, and we have a plan in place specifically for this type of emergency. I spoke with him on the phone just a few minutes ago, and he will contact me with any new updates, but they are ready and prepared.

Megs

2010-02-25T20:39:00.000-08:00

As a family we want to thank each of you who have blessed our lives these past few days. Each day we see a glimpse of our beloved Megan, and feel such gratitude. As a family, we have been strengthened. Individually, we have reflected. And together, we are forever. From this day forward we want to focus on Megs recovery, and the wonderful memories she will begin to make here and now. Physically Megs is healing, and now our focus will be on her mental and spiritual health and well-being. The Dr.'s have asked that we limit visitors to only immediate family, and we know that this is in Megan's best interest. We hope that you will understand, and we know that Megan will post her own expression of love and appreciation to all of you sooner than we think -because of course, she is our miracle Megs!

This Pictures Worth a Thousand Words

2010-02-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

One Step at a time, we know Megs will make it! We love you Megs!

The Power of Prayer

2010-02-22T12:47:00.000-08:00

We feel such gratitude to each of you for your prayers. We have been abundantly blessed. Each day brings hope and new progress for Megan. She continues to improve each day, and the Dr.s are amazed at how well she is doing. Today, the Plastic Surgeon visited her. He put over one thousand stitches in her face. She has dozens of fractures in her forehead, cheek, and eye. Many nerves were shredded. He did not believe that she would have the ability to move her eyebrows or forehead again, but today she did. How blessed we have been, and continue to be, and how grateful we are to each of you for your love, concern, faith, and prayers.

My Sweet Megs

2010-02-20T17:06:00.001-08:00

I arrived in Utah this morning and went straight to the hospital. After a lot of encouragement, and patience, Megan opened her eyes briefly and gave me a little three finger wave. Oh my sweet Megs, how we all love you! There are so many who love you! I feel more optimistic, and filled with hope today, and I know that our prayers have and continue to be answered. You are now our sweet little miracle megs, and we love you more than ever.

Please Pray for Megan

2010-02-18T15:08:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much to all of you. We are overwhelmed with the outpouring of love for Megan and our family. You will never know how much it means to us. Especially the tender care for our children while we are so far away. If you would like updated information on Megans condition you can go to Jordan and Lindsay's blog under my friend and family list. I will try to keep everyone updated as much as possible. I am catching a flight tonight to Hawaii, and then on to SL and will be there Saturday morning. Again, thank you, we love you all so much! Please continue to pray for her.

We Need Your Prayers

2010-02-18T00:47:00.000-08:00

Our daughter Megan was in a serious car accident tonight, and is in critical condition with a skull fracture. We are so very far away from her, and from our other children who are by her side. We are asking you to please pray for her, for us, and for our family. It is all that we can personally do right now from here in the Mission Field, and we would appreciate every prayer heavenward on behalf of our family. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, we love you.

Our New Home Sweet Home

2010-02-10T20:06:00.001-08:00

The Church is building a new mission home for the mission. It is literally next door to where we live now, and even closer to the ocean. It will be fun to watch it go up, and to have a little more room for incoming and outgoing missionaries visits. It is in the framing stage right now -concrete style framing! It keeps the rats out. Yippee!!

I'm Eggstatic!

2010-02-10T19:46:00.001-08:00

Oh, the incredible, edible egg! The Island of Majuro has been without eggs for a couple of months now. Before that, we were unable to get butter for a couple of months. Returning home from Utah, I found the freezer empty of Missionary birthday cookies. So what does a Mission Presidents wife do, when Missionaries are hungry for birthday cookies? I found some recipes on line, and began baking. I spent most of the day trying out several eggless cookie recipes, and filling the freezer once again with some tasty treats, only to receive a call from Sister Bell at the end of my baking spree, who said, "The eggs are in!". So, if you ever find yourself in a predicament like me, without eggs, and need to make some tasty cookies just let me know. I've got a couple of great recipes to share!

Engaged

2010-01-28T10:24:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share a picture of Parker & Lisa, who will be married in March. It's a strange feeling to know that all of your children are married! Congratulations you guys -we love you.

More Pictures from Kona- Because you Asked!

2010-01-26T21:25:00.001-08:00

Lots of New Beginnings!

2010-01-24T09:32:00.001-08:00

Life is filled with new challenges, experiences, and beginnings. This past year has blessed our family with a new grandchild, new mission call, a new son-in-law, and a soon to be daughter-in-law. We feel very blessed. Congratulations Shawnee & Sam, and welcome to the family Sam!

A Beautiful Day in Kona

2010-01-15T21:04:00.001-08:00

Today was a beautiful day in Kona, Hawaii. Even lost luggage couldn't dampen the day's events. What a special experience we all enjoyed at the Temple today. In a sealing room with seats for forty, the six of us listened to beautiful counsel from a member of the Temple Presidency, and then rejoiced in the spirit of that sacred sealing ordinance that will bind Sam & Shawnee Crossley for eternity. The former Temple matron made beautiful leis for each of us, and a bridal bouquet for Shawnee. A member who lives in Kona took pictures of the bride and groom at the Temple, in the town of Kona, and on lava rocks at the oceans edge. It was just perfect, and will be a beautiful memory forever.

A BIG Thank You

2010-01-07T14:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much to so many of you who have sent gifts to the Mission for the holidays. You have blessed so many lives with your generosity! The environment in this Mission is harsh on Missionary clothing, and most of the missionaries in our mission do not have the family resource to replace what wears out! Many of them asked me to thank you for them, and to let you know how grateful they are for their new shoes and shirts.
The nice shoes Missionaries bring with them quickly look like this.

After climbing off the mission boat, and walking quite a ways in the ocean water, we held our missionary meeting without our shoes, which were drying out.
On our last trip to Ebeye, we waded through the water in the streets after a short but heavy rainstorm that morning. The missionaries do this daily.
These shoes were almost like new before heading out to an outer Island to serve! This missionary was very grateful for the new pair of Crocs he received!So from all of us here in the Marshall Islands, Majuro Mission THANK YOU, we love and appreciate you!

Hawaiin Holidays

2010-01-01T23:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays from Honolulu! What a great Christmas week we enjoyed with our children and grand children. It was great to see them all after a six month separation. The only problem, it was so hard to say good bye again! Here are a few of the highlights from our Hawaiin Christmas Vacation.
The kids all went snorkeling at Haunama Bay. We stayed at the hotel with the grandkids. It was great!
We all went to a movie on Christmas Day. Most of the group went to the new movie "Avatar". Sam was a little obsessed -thus this family "Avatar" picture on the Church grounds Sunday after Church.
All tuckered out from a day at Pearl Harbor and the swap meet! The kids were troopers.
Lindsay, Taylor, and Jordan prepare us for a little Hula action before we go to the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Aaah! Fresh flower lei, fresh pineapple, and warm sunshine! A Christmas treat!
Our final night together at the Polynesian Cultural Center. What a great holiday vacation we enjoyed togther. Now, it's back to work, mission, and school . . . . until the next big event - Shawnee & Sam's wedding in two weeks in Hawaii!

It Was A Great Birthday in the Mission Field

2009-12-17T23:15:00.000-08:00

It was a great birthday! It began with a beautiful gift from Brad. A black pearl necklace made on the Island of Arno. The entire day was filled with birthday cake (a gift from Sister Bell), birthday songs, missionary visits, and cards. Here are just a few clips from some of the Elders cards.
"I'm so happy you're my mum in this mission." Love you always, Sister Kitiona
"Happy Birthday Sister Smith, you are a really good substitute mother for my mission." Elder Stoker
"Happy Birthday! I won't guess at your age, after having learned from my mom that's rude". Elder Haddock
"Happy Birthday Sister Smith, you are aging much better than your husband". Elder Corry
"Hippo Birdies to ewe, Hippo Birdies to ewe, Hippo Birdies Sister Smith, Hippo Birdies to ewe!" Elder Gardner
"Happy Birthday Sister Smith, thank you for all that you do for us, you make a really hard task look easy. It's cool to think that we will be here next year for your 31st birthday too!" Elder Nawahine and Elder Bulloch
"Happy Birthday Sister Smith! 28 years young, and nothing but adventure on the horizon!" Elder Mackey

My Birthday wish? Two more years with these wonderful missionaries!! It was definitely, a Happy Birthday to ME!

Beautiful Flower Gifts

2009-12-06T20:12:00.000-08:00

Everywhere we go, and whenever we speak we are given these beautiful flower gifts. They are such a treasure. The headdress and necklace Brad and I are wearing in this picture were made by the Relief Society Sisters for Stake Conference. They get up very early to pick the flowers. They weave them with coconut fronds and beautiful leaves. They smell wonderful, but die within a couple of days. The leaves were a little long on this particular head dress, and I had trouble seeing through them when I spoke in Stake Conference. They are such a treasure, and made with so much love by the women here in the Islands.

Mission Presidents Seminar in Sydney

2009-11-22T01:24:00.000-08:00

We just enjoyed a fantastic Mission Presidents Seminar in Sydney, Australia. It was a beautiful time of year to visit, and a spiritually uplifting and restful week. We were able to reunite with good friends who were in the MTC with us, preparing to leave for service in other areas of the Pacific. It was good to see them again. We also enjoyed time and instruction from Elder Quentin Cook, Elder Callister and the other Area Presidency.
The Sydney Harbor Bridge at night while on a dinner cruise.
Cruising Darling Harbor five months into our mission.
We were able to enjoy Sunday in Sydney. We attended Ward meetings in Hyde Park with President and Sister Simmons, Brother & Sister Sorenson (IFR for the Pacific Area), and Elder and Sister Nielson (first quorum of the seventy). We enjoyed a wonderful dinner with all of them at the mission home of the Simmons afterward.
We have loved sharing this missionary experience with the other wonderful Mission Presidents that came out when we did, the first of July. These are our great friends, Jeff & Diane Simmons serving as Mission President in Sydney, Australia.

Parker & Shawnee Visit

2009-11-17T21:56:00.000-08:00

The past two weeks have been wonderful! Shawnee and Parker came to the Marshall Islands to visit. We were really worried that they wouldn't enjoy it, but they loved it, and received a real education. The week was packed with fun, and the spirit, and we wish they could have stayed much longer - but they had to get back to their significant others!
We took a day trip to an outer island (Enecko) to do some snorkeling, picnicing, and just laying on the beach. It was a great day, and snowing back home in Utah!

They spent a lot of time with the missionaries, and of course the missionaries loved it!
Shopping for amimono's was a highlight.
Standing at the highest point of the Island.
Tasting coconut milk for the first time - not so tasty they decided.
The people, and especially the children loved them!
It was so great to spend time with them, but hard to say good-bye again!

Just Have to Say . . . . .

2009-11-07T13:02:00.000-08:00

Yippee! Congratulations Shawnee and Sam. We are very excited for the January Wedding. You're a darling couple. We love you both.

Next Time You Think You don't Have Enough Cupboard Space in Your Kitchen, Think Again . . . .

2009-11-03T11:28:00.001-08:00

Wondering What To Do With Your Old Worn Out Suitcases?

2009-10-28T22:48:00.000-07:00

Just cut off the top, and use as a wagon!

Coconut Holders

2009-10-25T15:09:00.001-07:00

While inspecting missionary apartments on Friday with Elder and Sister Phippen, we were left a treat of fresh coconut juice by some of our Elders. Sister Phippen mentioned that we needed built-in coconut holders in this Toyota Van! Yup, that we do. The missionaries drink coconut milk everyday while out teaching. They shimmy up their own trees outside their flats, and prepare their own drink.
Oh, and by the way, the apartments looked great too!

You've Got Mail!

2009-10-13T13:03:00.000-07:00

My cute card group friends sent me a package of the homemade cards I missed in July, along with some chocolate. It took two and a half months to get to me, but I was so excited to receive it! I just wish they'd sent me a STRAW! Thanks friends! I love and miss you.

And I Thought I was a Woos!

2009-10-09T15:42:00.000-07:00

Thursday we picked Sister Teichert, our new mission nurse, up from the Airport. We decided as couples to eat lunch over at the Hotel since the electricity was out at home - again. They set up a beautiful table for us, with fresh flowers in leaf bowls. But what immediately drew my attention, weren't the flowers, but the large cockroach on the ceiling above our table. I told Elder Bell, he had to kill it before I could eat lunch. He told Elder Lytle to kill it before we ate lunch. Elder Lytle told the hostess at the restaurant, who shuddered at the thought of a cockroach in the restaurant. A few minutes later, a whole team of people,carrying brooms, spray, and cloth's covering their mouths, came to kill that one cockroach! They asked us to step aside, as they swatted it, stomped on it, jumped around in fear, and ultimately eliminated the problem. Wow, and I thought I was a woos! I'm feeling pretty darn brave today, because I've killed one all by myself. Oh yes, and the flower centerpiece was beautiful!

Random....

2009-10-04T22:11:00.000-07:00

So today I went to the little store across the street. I handed the lady behind the counter three twenty's to pay for my purchase. One of the twenty's slipped out of her hand, onto the floor. She didn't even look down at it. She just picked it up between her toes, and brought it up to her hand at the cash register! I know, random, but these people can do amazing stuff with their feet! I just had to share that.

I JUST HAVE TO SAY . . . . . .

2009-09-30T23:30:00.000-07:00

I GOT MY STUFF ! ! ! ! !

TSUNAMI WARNING

2009-09-30T13:18:00.001-07:00

As many of you may already know, our Mission Area was given a Tsunami Warning yesterday. We have a Mission Emergency Plan in place, and were prepared to use it yesterday, if necessary. Fortunately we did not have too. Our Mission, and missionaries are safe and well. No Worries! Pray for Samoa, Phillipines, and now Indonesia. We have had many concerned friends and parents contact us, and wanted to post our "alls well" message for those still wondering.

BETYA NEVER.....

2009-09-24T22:10:00.001-07:00

Betya never buttered your toast with one of these.
Betya never reroofed a house this way.
Betya never cooked dinner this way.
Betya never played this kind of instrument.
Betya never had a lobster lunch straight from the ocean.
Betya never had one of these parked in your front yard.
Betya never had a primary room like this one!

Sponge Bob Square Pants Day

2009-09-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

It's a Sponge Bob Square Pants Day!! Look what came up Elder & Sister Stellmons toilet - a live crabby patty !!!

UNIQUE TO ISLAND LIVING . . .

2009-09-07T00:46:00.000-07:00

Milk in a box that you keep on a shelf
Beautiful flowers all year long
Sand Crabs in the House
Bananas by the bush
The Crashing waves at our backdoor
Island Ping Pong
And a Coconut Frond Picket Fence

Sometimes You Just Have to Improvise . . .

2009-09-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

So, once again their is more hair trauma in my life. Shortly after arriving in Kiribati, my hair dryer decided to die. Due mainly to the difference in electrical current here. The real problem is that there are no hairdryers to be found in Kiribati. So whats a woman to do? I guess wear giganto, enormous velcro curlers in your hair to straighten out the Island frizz. All I have to say is, WHATS NEXT?

Happy Anniv . . . .

2009-08-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary Honey! It's the shortest celebration ever! We only enjoyed a few hours the morning of our anniversary on the 30th in Hawaii before leaving for Fiji, on our way to Kiribati. Fiji is a day ahead and two hours behind. Just a few hours in flight, the 30th ended, and the 31st began. I'm not sure that I know anyone else who can claim they celebrated their anniversary in both Hawaii and Fiji. Woo hoo! What an exotic and very short 30th Anniversary! Hardly time to wish the one you love Happy Anniv.......

Language Barrier

2009-08-29T23:22:00.000-07:00

So, we've been trying to get some local workers to come fix a few things that need fixing in the mission home. They finally came. Only there was a bit of a language barrier. I was able to explain most of the items on the list to the workers that needed to be fixed, but not the broken toilet that rocks when you sit on it in the bathroom on the main level. I told Brad, and he said he'd take care of it. So when they came the next morning, he went to explain it to them, and sat on the toilet and started rocking. They got it! It's fixed! And it was really funny!!

My Stress Level Just Went Down . . .

2009-08-29T23:17:00.000-07:00

Aaagh, Hair Relief! I found a great beautician in Hawaii to take care of my hair fiasco. Her name is Kathy. I think I'll be visiting her every time I travel through, until I return home to my favorite beautician Megan.

Recipe For Blonde

2009-08-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

So, the time has come to recolor my hair. I've been dreading it, because Megan has always taken such great care of my hair needs! Just thought I'd share with you her directions, or her Recipe For hair (as she calls it), that she sent to me;
1. Put on a shirt that you don't mind getting color on . . .just in case something spills.
2. Crack a window so that the fumes from the color don't hurt you and the Old President.
3. Get out your tube of color, your 30 and 40 volume, your color brush and bowl, your little mixing cup, your cape, and last, but most important, your hairstylist happy pants!
4. Very gently so it doesn't squirt everywhere, squeeze half of the tube of color into the color bowl.
5. I believe the tube contains 60 ml...or aka 2.1 oz...there is a half mark on the color tube so follow that.
6. Now get your little measuring cup and fill it to the 3/4 oz. line with your 30 volume.
7. Now pick up your 40 volume developer and pour that in with the 30 volume until it reaches a little past 1 oz., just barely past 1 oz. though mommy . . .
8. How are we doing? Are you listening carefully? I know how you have always had a hard time listening mom.
9. Just so you know it is equal parts. Half color and half developer. Now pour your developer into the color bowl with the color.
10. Mix them together real good with your color brush . . .until it is smooth and beautiful, this part will probably be easy for you because it is kind of like mixing cake batter all together.
11. Start applying the color to your sweaty head...I would start with the hairline in front, around the ears and then on the neckline. Then I would move to the very top,where your part is. Just apply it to the roots where you see regrowth. Use the pointy side of the brush to take like 1/4 inch sections and just keep applying the color to each section all the way down . . .Do you remember this mommy???
12. Once you have color applied to your entire sweaty head go show daddy and make sure you didn't miss any spots. . . oh and make sure he has his glasses on k?? Now put your gloves on and gently in a circular motion massage the color into your roots so it gets every single hair. . .
13. Okay! Now leave the color on for thirty to thirty five minutes. . .whatever your heart desires.
14. Once the time is up go turn on the water and begin to rinse the color and sweat from your hair . .
15. Yay!! You did it Mama! I knew you could. Now go dry it and make sure it looks okay. And email your amazing daughter with results . . . .
Results this first time around - not so good! I'm not sure where I went wrong, but I now have blue grey hair around my face! I really miss my beautician!! HELP Megan!!!