Christmas has arrived in Sandy. The trees are just the right size for the cottage and Paul carefully climbed on the roof to hang the icicle lights. 'Tis the season to be jolly!

Hannah's Recital

We went to Hanna's piano recital a few days ago. She is shown here with her Mom, Teacher, Duet Partner, and her Mom. The music was fabulous and Hannah is a very talented musician. Her grandparents were honored to be there and are very proud of Hannah.

Thanksgiving In St. George!

Here are a few photos of our family on Thanksgiving Weekend! You may think they are surrounding the table in prayer, but in fact... they are playing "Speed Scrabble" and totally focused on figuring out their individual strategies.


The grandkids surround the kitchen counter anticipating one of Grandpa and Grandma's sensational breakfasts. With turkey only a memory, the oven pancakes, scrambled eggs with cheese, and bacon were quickly consumed.

It was a fabulous weekend with some wonderful memories. Remember... it's all about family!

Karen's Kids Together

Karen's kids all came to SLC for a short visit. Everyone got together at Grandma Lorraine's house to celebrate being together and also Stephanie's birthday. Nate came from College Station, Texas and Amy from LaJolla, California. There are 4/8ths of the grandkids pictured here too. What could be more fun than that?

A Kokkola Birthday Party!

Little Hallee Kokkola had her first birthday! Part of her birthday is her own birthday cake! You can tell that she is having a great time diving into the frosting and everything underneath it.

















Her dad, Jason, also had a birthday on October 25! Happy Birthday to the two Kokkolas. It was a great party with the Timmreck's too!

Fun with Adam & Richie

Last weekend Adam & Richie (Dan & Lisa's adorable two sons) spent the weekend at the West Cottage. It was a birthday/sleepover and a trip to the Aquarium! These two little boys are full of energy and questions and fun. Here are a few images of the adventure!
Nana and Papa shared a pasta lunch with these two handsome boys. Was there more food on the floor or in their tummies? We'll leave it up to you to decide...
Birthdays with grandchildren are the best! Presents are out... memories are in!!

A Must-See Movie

On this very cold, wet day here in SLC, Paul and I took the opportunity to go see a highly recommended movie. (Even though our favorite thing is to go to movies on a weekday afternoon when the theaters are pretty empty, today was a perfect day to go.) This movie is about the Highland High Rugby Team and how it shaped the lives of the young men on the team. It's a true story and very touching. Your time will be well spent as you enjoy the wholesome message of the story. For an afternoon of great entertainment... see Forever Strong!

The Colors of Utah

As Fall has finally come to our beautiful state, the colors are unfolding. With the limited moisture this year, the colors are not as brilliant as some years, but worth savoring. Paul took a few shots while golfing at the Wasatch State golf course in Heber and Hobble Creek in Hobble Creek Canyon above Springville. You can also get a view of Paul's golf form... very nice!

Some Photos from London's Baby Blessing

We finally got the photos off of Paul's memory stick from London's blessing a few months ago. The dress was made by my friend Sue Somsen and really is a beautiful creation. It doesn't compare to our sweet London. What an adorable family!

More From South Pacific

Here are a few more photos from South Pacific.

We Went Flying

Last Saturday we took a flight with our friend Max in his new airplane. It was so beautiful to see the Salt Lake Valley on a peaceful Saturday morning. This valley is really changing with building going on everywhere. The photos will show some of the sights. Thanksgiving Point Golf Course birds-eye view of course would be included and a shot from the Southwest corner of the valley looking East. We really live in a beautiful place. Just wait until the leaves start changing. We'll probably get to fly again to see the colors unfold. Stay tuned... Life is good... Love is great... Happiness is priceless...

South Pacific is Over

My latest adventure is over for the Summer of 2008. In mid-May I auditioned for Sandy Utah's production of "South Pacific". Thinking I was too old for most of the parts, the role of Bloody Mary was one I thought would be fun. When I actually got the part, I never dreamed it would be such a transformation for me. After 2 1/2 months of rehearsals, we opened on August 15th at the Sandy Amphitheater. I dyed my hair dark black and worked each night for an hour making my face dark, wrinkled, and ugly. I wore a "fat suit", hair extensions, and blackened my teeth. Many of the people that came to the show did not recognize me. I came down with a cold the week before the show opened but it contributed to a low, gruff, Tonkinese voice. I guess I really pulled it off. The role was challenging and rewarding all at the same time. Paul was so very patient with the time away from him for rehearsals and then came to almost every performance. I even spent my birthday on the stage with most of my family and Paul's family in the audience. What a great birthday!

Yes this is a picture of me and the girl that played Liat, my daughter in the show. I'll let you figure out who is who. The experience has taught me that I can transform myself into a part like this and actually make it believable. Theater is in my blood now... very deep! I look forward to more roles in the future! Stay tuned... I'll let you know the next performance.

Welcome to our Blog

As older, technically challenged, new bloggers... we would like to welcome you to our first attempt of this kind. Please be patient as we try to post information and happenings in our life that will be of interest. We welcome your feedback, comments, and suggestions. Come back often and we'll try to make your time worthwhile.