The Walsh Family

A Visit to the Pumpkin Patch...and Other Scary Stories

2011-10-29T23:03:00.000-07:00

So we decided with Mario's parents here and Adam at school that the grown ups out numbered the kids so it was safe going to the pumpkin patch to pick a a few pumpkins to carve. Spooner Farms is a locale patch that is quite popular to visit. They had a cute activity barn with chicks, small pigs, bunnies and even a couple of turkeys. Tyler and Alex liked watching them once they were sure the animals were locked in pens. They also have a large corn maze but Linda won't go in a corn maze because she is pretty sure there are rodents in those.

We lucked out with the weather because as soon as we got back into the car it started pouring down rain. Since things when so smoothly at the patch we decided to attend my ward's Trunk or Treat dinner that evening. I kind of felt bad for Mario's parents because there were kids running around and all sorts of crazy costumes. I asked if there is anything like this in Ecuador where they are from and they said no, but they did join in the fun. After dinner everyone goes out to the parking lot where the kids go around and trick or treat to the cars. It was very dark and hard to keep track of the kids. We are happy to report that we managed to get through the evening without loosing anyone so I call that a successful day!

Now Open

2011-09-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

This last week we have had a "soft" opening of our new SubZero. We had a few glitches getting the sneeze guard (I know that is a terrible name) installed. It came from Utah with a big crack but we decided to order a new one and use the cracked on until it comes.

Installing the "sneeze guard"

On Tuesday night we had an open house for friends and family of our crew and the construction crew. It was a great opportunity to train our crew (and us).

making fresh ice cream...Yummmy

Once we got everything put together it was a great night.

some of our biggest fans!

We feel blessed to have such fun kids working for us! The store is almost in perfect shape. Our official "grand opening" will be October 6th.

Building Update

2011-09-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

The walls finished before painting. We can finally see the size and shape of our store.

Plumbing. Check. Electrical. Check. Now the real transformation begins.

This week they delivered the nitrogen tank to the store. It is actually starting to look like a SubZero. We are very excited for the grand opening coming up soon.

Cabinetry almost assembled, next granite

The front door and window pane had to be removed in order to get the tank inside

Daniel (standing) is our hard working contractor

moving the tank into place

TaDa this is the tank's new home

Farmer's Market - Liquid Nitrogen Edition

2011-09-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

While our store is under construction we have been selling our ice-cream at the Federal Way farmer's market and at the International Sand Sculpture Competition.


Justin playing with liquid nitrogen, it is only -320 degrees

Laura and Sarah making the freshest ice cream in town

Sub Zero

2011-09-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

We have been hard at work getting ready to open our very own SubZero franchise. Here are some pictures of the progress. We have also been getting lots of practice selling ice-cream at our farmer's market and at the International Sand Sculpture Competition.


This is the before, the store was previously a Quiznos that went out of business


First we had to Demo the old store


Don't worry no children were electrocuted in the demo of this store

Linda is a gangsta slave driver


making children work for their supper


Break time with Papa


Jennie and Laura scraping glue off of the walls


Justin determined to break into the safe. He got $11 in nickles

Updates from Argentina

2011-09-05T12:06:00.000-07:00

Lots of stuff going on with Daniel in Argentina. Only 15 weeks left on the mission. elderdwalsh.blogspot.com

A Visit From the Grandsons

2011-08-21T18:55:00.000-07:00

The boys and I had a fun day at Steele Lake Park.

Congratulations Adrian and Laura

2011-07-26T11:45:00.000-07:00

All graduated from BYU-Idaho and on the way to life in the O.C.

Celebrating in front of the Jacob Spori building

My Family

2011-07-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

My Family is INSANE:

but, I sure do love them!!

Pizza Day - The Aquabats!

2011-06-07T17:40:00.000-07:00

If You Give a Toddler Chocolate

2011-05-18T20:12:00.000-07:00

Tyler has a way of turning 6 chocolate chips into a big adorable mess.

Freedom

2011-05-18T20:08:00.000-07:00

Today is a huge day for Laura. She got her drivers license! I will admit it is a little scary. Even though she is the youngest of 5 kids and I have been through this 4 times before...I will worry. She is a great driver so I am sure she will be fine.

Justin

2011-05-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

This is Justin.
He said that I needed to update my blog.
He is married to Jennifer.
He isn't in many of our pictures yet because he is kind of a new addition to the family.
The amazing Laura Watts Walsh took this picture.
So happy that my kids married up.
Man, I love my family!

In Case

2011-03-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

Just in case anyone has forgotten Daniel....Here is his blog elderdwalsh.blogspot.com Argentina is really far from home and he sure could use some letters.

Day 30 - A Photograph of Yourself and Three Things That Have Happened Today

2011-02-27T21:46:00.000-08:00

This is a post that I wrote a while ago and I just noticed I never published it. Sorry I am sure you have been anxiously awaiting this post.

I am pretty tired of posting pictures of me lately so I decided to post one of me when I was much much younger and cuter.

1. I went to the Chiropractor and got all cracked up.

2. Went to Target to buy a bunch of make up and stuff we were out of.

3. Spent way too long messing with three different computers to print silly envelopes for a mass mailing. It was fun getting spend more time with my best girlfriend Laura.

Now I will cut some vinyl orders and then sit and do nothing for the remainder of this day. All in all I would say it was a good day.

Day 29 - Something That I Could Never Get Tired of Doing

2011-02-07T19:40:00.000-08:00

Watching my grandsons play.

Shopping with my daughters

Hanging out with my friends especially somewhere warm with water.

Being silly with my brothers and sisters.

Day 28 - Your Favorite Music

2011-02-03T08:58:00.000-08:00

I love music of all kinds. It depends on my mood and what I am doing. If I am doing housework I love old school rock (funny that it is now called old school), Journey, Styx, VanHalen, Cheap Trick. In the car I like music you can sing to. Right now I really enjoy the Glee soundtracks because there is a great mix of old and new. I also love to listen to Death Cab, Postal Service, The Aquabats and even Atomic Steve, because they remind me of great times with the kids. For dancing I love the oldies like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and the like. Michael Buble is a great mix of those artists. The one thing I am sure of is that music can create a mood so it is so important that we remember that before we pick something to listen to.

Day 27 - A Picture of You Last Year and Now and How Have You Changed since then?

2011-02-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

This is me in January last year:

This is me at Christmas this year:

I have really not changed much since then. My hair may be slightly longer and I no longer have my braces. Oh but I am soooo much wiser. I have learned one thing in writing today's blog. I am pretty much always the one taking pictures so there are very few of me. That is just fine, I am not a fan of having my picture taken.

Day 26 - A Photo of Somewhere You've Been

2011-01-29T13:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Jack and I on our continued quest to find some cabinets we can re-purpose went to a super cool store. It is a place where there is everything you can imagine to use in remodeling a home, all salvage.

There is lots and lots of junk with some treasures mixed in. We didn't find exactly what we were looking for this time but we will certainly return again for some cool stuff.

http://www.seconduse.com/

Day 25 - What's in Your Purse?

2011-01-29T13:31:00.000-08:00

Mostly junk that doesn't need to be there.

Four checkbooks, personal, mission fund, Windmill Lettering and Daniel's. Pill Bottle with lots of Tylenol. Lip gloss, chapstick. Wallet. Glasses, both sun and regular. Keys. Weeding hook, Dental floss. Planner (I should try using this). Paint color swatches. Camera in case anything interesting happens. (as you can see by this post, nothing has)

Day 24 -A Photo of Something that Means A Lot to You

2011-01-27T10:51:00.000-08:00

Since I have already posted so many pictures of my family I decided to go another direction. Being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the reason I am the person that I am. The gospel has blessed me with so much, a sense of why I am here and what this whole life means. It has also blessed me with the knowledge that my family, who I love so much, can live together for eternity. That means everything to me.

Day 23 - 15 Facts About You

2011-01-26T19:29:00.000-08:00

1. I was born in Hollywood, California

2. I have 3 sisters and 2 brothers (and 3 brother-in-laws and 2 sister-in-laws)

Old picture with my sisters, brothers and parents

3. I have lived in more than 10 houses, 6 states and 3 countries.
4. I LOVE being a mom!!!

5. My husband proposed to me in Interlaaken, Switzerland

the day we were engaged

6. I said yes
7. I graduated from Utah Valley State College

8. I am part owner of a successful vinyl business

9. I adore my grandsons and miss them everyday
10. I love rock music
11. I wish I was still a good dancer. I was great at disco.

12. My children (and spouses) are brilliant and super talented and I am not ashamed to admit it.

13. I crave sunflower seeds and diet coke.
14. I sing loud in the car when I am driving by myself.
15. I am very shy before I get to know you.

Day 22 - A Letter to Someone Who Has Hurt You Recently

2011-01-26T07:50:00.001-08:00

Sometimes it is better to just let a sleeping dog lie. My feelings can be easily hurt.

Day 21 - A Photo of Something that Makes You Happy

2011-01-25T11:57:00.000-08:00

This is easy.

My "super sized" family.

Day 20 - The Meaning Behind Your BLOG Name

2011-01-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

The reason that I picked this name for our blog is that we have been raising our children in this beautiful area. To me the northwest is such an amazingly beautiful place that I never get tired of. We have more than our share of rainy days but on a clear day...WOW. I love it here.

Adam and Tyler on a Sunny Day!

We are very close to the water, ocean and mountains.

Day 19 - Another Picture of Yourself

2011-01-24T14:01:00.000-08:00

Not a great picture of myself but it comes with great memories. This Christmas we went up to the cabin and had a great time. (thanks Ruth) The birds there are very friendly and will come to eat out of your hand.

Day 18 - Something You Crave Alot

2011-01-22T17:45:00.000-08:00

Enough said. I am weak

Day 17 - A Photo of You and Your Family

2011-01-22T17:37:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of me with my kids and some of my family that made it down to Adrian and Laura's wedding. Our family has grown since then. We are missing Justin and Alex in this picture.

Laura did family pictures last Christmas. Still no Justin (on his mission) or Alex (in Linda's tummy)

I sure do love these people!

Day 16 - Your Celebrity Crush

2011-01-20T10:16:00.000-08:00

Don't have one. I have been wracking my brain trying to think of one but sorry, no crush.

Day 15 - Something You Don't Leave the House Without

2011-01-19T14:51:00.000-08:00

Two things:

Chapstick

My Cell Phone, I always have it with me but whether I hear and answer it is another story.

Day 14 a TV show you're currently addicted to

2011-01-18T14:14:00.000-08:00

There is no one show that I am absolutely addicted to but I do have a few favorites. The channel that I am addicted to is HGTV, or Home and Garden T.V.

I have such a love of decorating and anything associated with it. A few of my favorite shows are:

Get it Sold. Sabrina Soto is a master at staging and cleaning up clutter. She always has great low cost decorating ideas for the home.

Designed to Sale. Again great staging, color selection and clean up.

Finally, Divine Design with Candice Olsen. She is the one TRUE designer on the channel. They never tell us what her budgets are for rooms but I am pretty sure they are high. Her style is right along with the styles I love.

Day 13 - Your Favorite Musician and Why?

2011-01-17T11:13:00.000-08:00

Right now I really enjoy listening to Michael Buble. I love so many genres of music that it is very difficult to pick one. I really like the old time 50's crooners

Day 12 - A Photo of the Town You Live In

2011-01-16T17:26:00.000-08:00

We are so blessed to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Federal Way, Washington. We love it here.

We have beaches

Mountains

And plenty of parks and trails to enjoy!

Day 11 - What's in Your Makeup Bag?

2011-01-16T17:25:00.000-08:00

Um...make up. Anything that I can put on my face while driving to work. Haha

Day 10 - Your Favorite Place to Eat Out

2011-01-14T19:52:00.000-08:00

Wow this is a hard one because I love eating out anywhere. Some of my favorite places are. Olive Garden, Japanese Steak House and Outback.

The place I go to have lots of fun with friends. Red Robin.

Place I probably go to the most often. McDonalds.

I like to eat cows.

Day 9 - A Photo of Something You Last Purchased

2011-01-13T19:32:00.000-08:00

Two of the things I purchased today that stand out are:

Laura's passport. We are preparing for our cruise and Laura gets to come with us this time. Therefore, she needs a current U.S. Passport.

New yoga pants for Laura. They are what she wears to ballroom dance classes. My conclusion.....Laura is expensive.

Day 8 - A Song to Match Your Mood

2011-01-12T10:17:00.000-08:00

Day 7 - Your Dream Wedding

2011-01-11T19:15:00.000-08:00

My dream wedding would be to marry somebody that I love, am crazy about and is my best friend. We would be sealed for eternity in the house of the Lord.

Oh wait, I did that. Awesome.

Day 6 - A Photo of an Animal You'd Love to Keep as a Pet

2011-01-10T09:56:00.000-08:00

Anyone that knows me knows that I am not a pet person. I am allergic to cats, don't like dog hair, fish stink....... I guess the only pet that even appeals to me would be a helper monkey.

A helper monkey could do my housework and take care of itself.

On second thought it didn't go very well for Mojo or Homer. Mario said that they had a monkey and it was bad and would throw poop at them. So....I guess no helper monkey for us.

Day 5 - A Photo of Yourself Two Years Ago

2011-01-09T16:33:00.000-08:00

Two years ago we went down to Logandale for a Robison family reunion. We were celebrating the 100 year anniversary of Jack's grandparents entering the Moapa Valley. This is a picture of our family with grandma Walsh.

Day 4- Your Favorite Photograph of your Best Friend

2011-01-09T16:15:00.000-08:00

Obviously my very best friend is Jack. He knows me better than I even know myself. He is the most supportive and wonderful husband I could ever hope for. Oh, and he loves his family unconditionally and would do anything for them. What a great guy.

Jack taking Adam on a birdwatching hike

I am also very blessed to have wonderful girl friends. Laura and I have been friends for many years now. We have had so many adventures together from a cross country drive in her new car, Mexican vacations, a Cruise, going to The Price is Right and even a kid less trip to Disneyland. She can make me laugh and cry. We have been there to support each other through good times and bad. Even our daughters have been best friends since they were little. My fifth child Laura is named after her. She is always fun to hang with. If I were ever to be arrested I can pretty much be sure she would be there with me. HA

Years ago I served in the stake young women presidency. Two of my best friends Ruth and Julianne served with me. Since that time we have become such great friends. Our favorite thing to do is go to Red Robin for 3 hour lunch "therapy". They are wonderful friends who listen. Julianne always has the best advice and so much wisdom. We can really laugh at ourselves and have wonderful conversations. Ruth is one of the most giving Christlike people that I know. I have even seen her give her coat to a girl at camp because the girl was cold with no concern for herself. She shares all that she has. She is the best example of service that I have ever seen and we have had some great laughs at girls camp. I love Julianne and Ruth for the women they are.

Jullianne, Kelli, Ruth and I

Wow as I write this and think of the wonderful people who surround me, my family, friends and husband I am so blessed!

Day 3 - Your Idea of the Perfect First Date

2011-01-07T18:44:00.000-08:00

Seeing that Jack and I have be happily married for over 28 years now it has been many many years since I have had a first date.I will just give you some of my random thoughts on first dates.

First dates can be a very awkward thing. Especially if you are set up with a total stranger.

Or when you think you are going out with several people and it ends up to be a "date".

Movies are probably the most common first dates. I don't think that they are a very good idea. After all the reason you go out on a date is so that you can get to know each other. Movies are a terrible place to have a conversation.

I think a great place to go for a first date is somewhere like a Japanese Steak House. Here you have entertainment and great food. You can talk to each other but when things are awkward and the conversation drags you have something to watch and comment on. So if any of you are trying to think of something fun to do on a first date or any date, look for a Benihana you will love it. At least my grandson did.

Day 2 - a photo of something you ate today

2011-01-06T18:05:00.000-08:00

This is the breakfast of champions. Almost every day I have a sesame seed bagel for breakfast.

A Diet Coke at work to help keep me awake.

Jack made a "Chicken Bake Casserole" for dinner with a Caesar Salad. It was one of his experimental recipes. He is a very good cook and comes up with some pretty great recipes.

Nothing like knowing you need to blog your food to make you think about what you eat. Till tomorrow!

Day 1 - a photo of yourself and a description of how your day was

2011-01-05T18:00:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of me and my very best friend. We were in Paris right outside of Notre Dame.

Today was a work day for me. I work three days a week for Dr. Whimpey. Not much very exciting happened there today. Put braces on kids...took braces off of kids and adjusted the rest. I am the office manager so I get to work at the front desk and visit with patients and their parents all day. I am also working on us having more of an online presence through facebook and website.

Today in the country however, it was a good day. The 112th congress was sworn in. I have high hopes for this new Republican led congress. One of the biggest things for me personally would be if they can repeal or at least improve "obama care". This healthcare bill has really messed up our insurance and it has only cost us hundreds more each month. grrr Oh an I loved to see Nancy Pelosi loose her job as speaker.

Anyway, any day that ends with me exhausted and watching TV on the couch is a good day.

30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-01-05T11:42:00.000-08:00

Jamie Duka had this posted on her Blog and it looked like a fun challenge (way more fun than some diet challenge) I think I will try.

30 Day Blog Challenge

Day 1 a photo of yourself and a description of how your day was
Day 2 a photo of something you ate today
Day 3 your idea of the perfect first date
Day 4 your favorite photograph of your best friend
Day 5 a photo of yourself two years ago
Day 6 a photo of an animal you'd love to keep as a pet
Day 7 your dream wedding
Day 8 a song to match your mood
Day 9 a photo of something you last purchased
Day 10 a photo of your favorite place to eat
Day 11 what's in your makeup bag?
Day 12 a photograph of the town you live in
Day 13 your favorite musician and why?
Day 14 a TV show you're currently addicted to
Day 15 something you don't leave the house without
Day 16 you celebrity crush
Day 17 a photo of you and your family
Day 18 something you crave a lot
Day 19 another picture of yourself
Day 20 the meaning behind your blog name
Day 21 a phot of something that makes you happy
Day 22 a letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 23 15 facts about you
Day 24 a photo of something that means a lot to you
Day 25 what's in your purse?
Day 26 a photo of somewhere you've been too
Day 27 a picture of you last year and now and how have you changed since then?
Day 28 your favorite music
Day 29 something that you could never get tired of doing
Day 30 a photograph of yourself today + three good things that have happened in the past

Halfway There ~ Livin' On A Prayer

2010-12-16T10:19:00.000-08:00

Today marks the one year mark on Daniel's mission.


Leaving, Excited, Apprehensive and Ready to Serve

Working, Praying, Baptizing and Wearing his Favorite Clothes!

Halfway There

Still Loving the Mission!!!

Grand Weekend

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

This weekend I was so lucky. Linda and her friends went to "Time out for Women" in Portland. I got to go down to pick the boys up and watch them for the weekend. It was so fun. Linda came up on Saturday to pick up the kids a stay a couple of days. I sure miss them and hate that they live all the way in Medford, but I cherish the time they are here. We took a picture to send to Daniel in his email today.

Today is also missionary letter day so we got to hear from Daniel. Here is a recent picture. You can read his weekly letters on elderdwalsh.blogspot.com he would love to hear from you.

Halloween

2010-10-31T19:26:00.000-07:00

Halloween is just not the same without little ones. Laura and Braylee did go to a dance at Pacific Ballroom. They decided to dress as their heros, Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked. Here are some pictures (they are so silly);

Boys Club

2010-07-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

How in the world do you get 9 boys under the age of five to sit still for a picture? As you can see I have no idea!

My Grandsons

2010-07-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

This is Adam. He will be 5 this month.

This is Tyler. He will be 2 this month.

This is Alex. He is 3 weeks old

I consider myself to be the luckiest Nana in the world.

Justin and Jennifer

2010-07-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

On Friday we were so blessed to gain a new son, Justin McKell, as he married Jennifer in the Seattle Temple. It was a beautiful day with family and friends. I am so grateful to all who helped to make it a perfect day.

Welcome Alex

2010-06-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

We are so blessed to welcome our new grandson Alex Marius Aguirre. He is of course adorable just like the other two.

I Believe....

2010-06-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

I have never seen it rain as hard as it was just doing!

Happy Memorial Day

2010-05-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

Last night we went out to the National Cemetery in Eagle Point. It was so beautiful to see all of the American flags. We are so grateful to all those who have served our country to protect our freedom.

We were recently in Normandy, France and Maargraten, Netherlands at the American cemeteries it was truly sacred ground. We love this country! God Bless America!!!

World Cup Missionary Style

2010-05-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

Daniel and one of his companions, Elder Picket, gearing up for the world cup of soccer.

Nice to see that even though Daniel is in Argentina he is still representing the homeland. To catch up on what our elder has been up to follow his blog at elderdwalsh.blogspot.com

Good News

2010-04-25T21:11:00.000-07:00

Jennifer is engaged to Justin McKell. It looks like they will be getting married July 9th. We are thrilled!

Puyallup Daffodil Parade

2010-04-10T21:34:00.000-07:00

A great sign of spring in this area is the annual daffodil parade. We decided to go to the Puyallup parade today. It was such a beautiful day and a terrific day for a parade.

It is so great to have Jennifer home from school for the summer and she was very anxious to experience all of the great activities we have here in the Northwest!

After the parade was over, we walked over to the Firehouse deli across the street from Sparks Stadium. Again, it was such a beautiful day that we enjoyed amazing food outside on the patio.

Apparently Sarah thought we were making her eat too much.

Well then it was time to get home and get to work to be ready for our next craft show. The spring fair in Puyallup.

Medford Temple

2010-04-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

Easter Eggs

2010-04-08T18:40:00.000-07:00

Having fun dying Easter eggs.

Egg Hunt

2010-04-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

Adam and Tyler got to go to an Easter egg hunt at one of Linda's friend's home.

It was amazing to me that we had a big group of kids and they were all boys!

Tyler finally got the hang of it ter a while and he figured out that those eggs had candy in them.

Adam knew the drill and did a great job finding his eggs.

Big Boy Room

2010-04-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

Laura Gabel and I went to visit Linda in Oregon so that we could help her set up and decorate a bedroom for Adam and Tyler in anticipation of the new baby's arrival in June. Laura (my laura) and Braylee were a big help also.

Look What I Made magnet board to display art work.

We painted this wood table and chairs so that Adam and Tyler have a place to do their art work.

Name boards on painted canvas to personalize their space.

The kids are huge fans of books so this way they are accessible to Adam.

Linda will add some pictures of the boys into these frames.

Adam is pretty excited to be big enough to sleep in the top bunk!

The room is just flooded with great natural light and vaulted ceilings.

Monday

2010-03-15T21:48:00.000-07:00

I used to hate Monday but now that is when Daniel sends us an e-mail and if we are lucky....we are able to e-mail back and forth for a bit.

My Missionary

2010-02-23T19:42:00.000-08:00

Daniel and his first companion Elder Jackson getting ready to head to Argentina.

District

What???

2010-02-22T18:17:00.000-08:00

Are you kidding? It couldn't possibly be February. It feels like May. We have been very spoiled with great weather lately. While it is snowing in most of the country, we have had nice warm sunny days. This week end we had our first family get together of the season. We are all very anxious to see the warm weather return.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2010-02-16T18:55:00.000-08:00

Today, Daniel called from the Salt Lake City airport on his way to Argentina. It was great to talk to him. He has loved the MTC and is excited to head to Argentina. Tomorrow morning he will find himself in the middle of the summer in the land of beef and pasta. It's hard to imagine that it's been more than 30 years since I was there. I'm exited for him and just a bit jealous.

Jack

2/15/2010

My Missionary

2010-02-04T17:32:00.000-08:00

Daniel is in his eighth week at the MTC and doing wonderfully! His letters make his parents feel happy that he is learning so much!

To catch up on him, I post his weekly letters on his blog.

elderdwalsh.blogspot.com

Mozambique???

2010-01-23T21:46:00.000-08:00

Jacob Sirrine opened his mission call today. We all tried to guess where the Lord would send him.

We thought he was joking when he said Mozambique.

I guess he wasn't

Congratulations Jake! You will make a wonderful missionary.

A Visit From the Hardys

2010-01-23T21:37:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago we had a visit from one of Jack's friends from growing up in Moapa Valley, Jim Hardy, and his wife Cindy. It was fun to take them around the Seattle area and play tourist. Seattle is such a beautiful place...even in the rain. We went down to the waterfront for lunch and took a trip out to Snoqualmie Falls.

Thanks Laura, You are Amazing

2010-01-07T19:06:00.000-08:00

While we had the whole family here, we talked Laura into taking a bunch of family pictures. You can't tell by the pictures but it was sooooo cold out there.

Having a daughter-in-law that is a talented photographer is one of the many perks of Adrian marrying Laura.
I sure do love these folks!!!

A VanderHoeven Christmas

2009-12-28T19:39:00.000-08:00

It is tradition in our extended family to spend Christmas Eve together. We are usually at the Lutz home in Redmond, as we were again this year. It is pretty fun to squeeze around 30 people into Karen and Bob's living room.

Karen always plans the menu with LOTS of good food (in our family nobody is ever in danger of starvation). Jacki and Tijs are here making a delicious punch.

We always have a program complete with Opa reading the Christmas story from Luke. Terrence read the Book of Mormon account of the birth of Christ. Pam read us a very cute story about a family a Christmas time.

This year for Christmas, we asked the family to write notes to Daniel our new missionary that is in the MTC.

The closing part of our program is always the singing of Silent Night is all of the languages we know. This year we had English, Dutch, German, Spanish and Albanian (Landi wasn't too sure how it goes but since he is from Albania we had to try). It is always a very touching part of the evening and I have a hard time not tearing up during especially the Dutch part.

Then we total loose control and move into the "White Elephant" gift exchange. It is fun every year to come up with some really crazy gifts. We have had a fruit cake (the same one) going around the family for 10 years now. Whoever gets it signs and dates the bottom of the can and passes it on the next year. It is so fun..of course the little ones didn't quite get why we were stealing their presents and why such a pretty wrapped present held such a crummy gift. Christmas Eve is always a great way to start our Christmas celebration.

Daniel's Mission Blog

2009-12-18T23:34:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out Daniel's mission blog at elderdwalsh.blogspot.com I will try to keep it up with letters and pictures from the mission. He will need everybody's support so write him a letter sometime.

Harvest Ball 2009

2009-12-17T13:24:00.000-08:00

Just a picture of Laura and some of her friends at this years Ballroom Dance Harvest Ball.

Can't Write.....Crafting

2009-12-04T07:43:00.000-08:00

We are at the Victorian Country Christmas this week. Come see us at the Puyallup Fairgrounds. Maybe next week I can catch up.

Groovy Halloween

2009-11-03T14:01:00.000-08:00

Laura and Braylee all ready to go to a Halloween party.

Stupid Pigs

2009-10-30T16:56:00.000-07:00

So the big news of the day is the H1N1 virus or the "swine flu". My friend, Ruth, had it a couple of weeks ago and says that it should be called the "evil ferrel pig disease" because swine flu doesn't sound bad enough.

Working in the healthcare field we are around many people everyday, I have been meticulous about hand washing and have used up a bunch of hand sanitizer. However.....it still found a way to attack our family. I am sick and hoping that I don't get any worse, I hate staying in the house all day.

Last week while Linda was up visiting, Mario called and said that he had it and the Dr. said for Linda and the boys to stay up here until he was better so that they don't get it. Than Gina, who lives with them got it. Linda was obedient and stayed here until the coast was clear. On the way home....Tyler started to run a fever. Linda took him to the Dr. right away and he has been bitten by the swine flu. Now she has it and we are hoping that Adam is safe. What a rotton bug!!

Moral of this story is....if you must go out don't cough on anyone and wash your hands. Mostly just stay home.

Tacoma Dome Holiday Fair

2009-10-27T07:01:00.001-07:00

This last week was this years long awaited Tacoma Holiday Food and Gift Festival. We have been preparing for months for this show and it turned out great. It required hundreds of hours cutting wood, sanding, painting, sanding some more, cutting vinyl and lots of weeding vinyl. We were so grateful to our family that helped so much with everything. Jeffrey built wonderful counters for our booth. They are extremely heavy so we used lots of manpower loading and unloading them.Linda came up for the week to use her awesome sales skills (having the grandkids here was definitely a big bonus!!!). Daniel got to see what it was like to be a stay at home mom with two kids and gained quite and appreciation for what Linda does everyday. Karen took off a couple of days of work to help out. Jacob was ready to lift and carry anything we needed…..it just goes on and on. Our family is a huge blessing.

Our new product, glass name frames were a huge hit and we sold out, but not to fear we will carry them again. We loved how busy it was and all of the wonderful comments we heard from customers.

Another Gator

2009-10-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

The first week of September was the beginning of another school year. This year Laura starts high school. She is our fifth and final child in our family and like her siblings and I did, she will be attending Decatur High School. The school has changed quite a bit since I went there (I was there the first year it opened), but it is fun to still root for the same navy blue and gold.

Called to Serve

2009-10-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

In September Daniel received the call that a faithful son waits 19 years to get. I was down in Oregon at the time so we set up the web cams so we could all be together for the big opening of his mission call. He has been called to spend the next two years in the Argentina, Buenos Aires West mission.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaFLaAdegz0

We were all so excited! All of the men in our family will speak fluent Spanish (Adam pointed out that he can speak Spanish too)! Jack was in the Buenos Aires South mission a short 30 years ago.

Buenos Aires has a temple that was dedicated in 1986.

Argentina is well known for it's great soccer. The world cup will be going on while he is there. Also it is the home of the Argentine Tango although Daniel will be sworn off of being that close to girls for two years. We are so excited for him and feel so blessed that we will have another full time missionary in our family. I have no doubt that he will be a great example to many.

Promises, Promises

2009-09-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

I SWEAR that I will update this blog soon. It has been an amazing summer with so much going on. When I have some time I will get right to it. In the mean time look at my windmill lettering blog to see why I am too busy to write.

Wow, I am so lucky!!

2009-09-10T17:49:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday and I came home from work to a wonderful surprise. Linda schemed with Ron and Laura Gabel and they built me this gorgeous AMAZING headboard.
Hanging over the bed is my present from Jack. My very favorite Joseph Brickey painting. Apparently Laura has been hiding it since she visited Joseph back in July. I feel so blessed not to mention spoiled.

Happy Birthday Daniel

2009-08-14T17:31:00.000-07:00

Today is Daniel's 19th birthday, how time flies! Daniel is so much fun to have around, he is very talented he can sing, dance, play guitar and tell some pretty funny stories. Daniel volunteers at Pacific Ballroom as a teaching assistant.
Daniel also enjoys hiking and showing off his mad skills.
We are anxiously awaiting his mission call so that we can find out where he will be spending his next two birthdays.Happy Birthday Daniel!!! We love you lots!

Adrian and Laura (now we have two)

2009-08-01T21:47:00.000-07:00

We just returned from Twin Falls, Idaho where Adrian was married to Laura Watts. We are so happy for them and so excited to have another Laura in the family. The sealing, lunch reception and trip went perfectly (except for the unfortunate 6 stitches in Benjamin's finger, I am sure Valerie will write more about that on her blog). Laura is from a wonderful family and we so enjoyed getting to know them just a little better. Also to my family, thank you for coming all the way to Idaho I appreciate and love you all, I know it was a sacrifice to come but I sure did love having you all there!We won't get too rested because the reception up here will be in just a week. Lots to do!!

Today is Adam's Birthday

2009-07-26T16:11:00.001-07:00

Hooray for Adam! He is turning four today. I love Adam he is so full of fun.

Tyler is One!!!

2009-07-21T21:20:00.000-07:00

How time flies! Today is Tyler's first birthday. I was so blessed to be in the room when he was born, I even got to cut the cord (Mario was too scared to do it).

Tyler is such a sweetie I wish I could be there for his birthday.

Love you Tyler, Have a Happy Birthday!!!

Love Nana and Papa

A Visit from the Aguirre Family

2009-07-05T17:54:00.000-07:00

Recently we were blessed to have Linda, the boys and Ginita visit us for a week. Linda has a new puppy, Jasper, so she brought him along too. One of the main reasons for the visit was that one of Linda's best friends growing up, Amy Gabel, was getting married. The ceremony was at our friends the Edward's house that overlooks the Puget Sound. It was a beautiful day and the wedding turned out great.

Laura, Braylee and Olivia decided to take some pictures down on the beach.
While the kids were here we did shopping, playing and even did a craft sale in Puyallup for Meeker Days. Jack got to show Adam around the tractors and he was super excited to ride the "circus" train around.My favorite part of any visit that Linda's family makes is being home with the kids just playing and enjoying thier company.

Good Bye Saghalie

2009-06-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

Today Laura graduated from Middle School. All of our kids went to Saghalie and she is the last one. Now she will be moving on to Decatur High School, where I graduated some ......years ago. Time sure does go by so fast. It seems that it wasn't so long ago that I had a house full of little kids, now I usually have a house full of teenagers.

Moving Truck

2009-06-15T17:51:00.000-07:00

Mike's truck broke down and needed to be towed to Dad's house. The tow truck left it on the driveway parked very crookedly. The best way to get the guys in our family to do something is to tell them they can't.The VanderHoeven Machine boys were able to pick up the truck and move it straight.

Maple Valley Days

2009-06-15T17:42:00.001-07:00

This week end we had a craft sale in Maple Valley. It was held at Lake Wilderness Park. We have been working hard so we had a lot to sell. By day three the park was getting pretty dusty so we had quite a job keeping things clean. Here are a few pictures.

Hair Cuts

2009-06-15T16:42:00.000-07:00

Jennifer has been saying for a long time that she wanted to get her hair cut. Jack loves her long hair and would always encourage her to keep it that way. One day I took both Jennifer and Laura for their long awaited haircuts. Jennifer said that she was to scared to go without me.

They both turned out great. Laura wasn't so sure about her cut, but she looks cute as ever.

Graduation

2009-06-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

We have had a very busy few weeks and it isn't letting up yet. Last week we had a niece and nephew graduate from High School. In our family between college and high school graduations there have been, I think, like eight! Patricia VanderHoeven graduated from Fife High School on June 9th at the Tacoma Dome. She will be heading to the University of Utah in the fall. I wasn't able to get pictures of her graduation.

Jacob Sirrine graduated from Bonney Lake High School on June 10th at the Puyallup Fair grounds. He is working full time to get ready for his mission.Jacob at his graduation ceremony.

The Sirrine family (the part that still lives here) with Opa in the background.

We've Been Making Plans

2009-06-04T22:15:00.000-07:00

Mike was so excited to get started. All he had available was oven mitts.
Watch out pesky berry vines!

Putting our creative minds together! The VanderHoeven machine getting ready for a party!

This will be a lot of fun!!!! Just wait, only two months to go.

Camp Muir to the Operating Room

2009-05-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Jack and Daniel were invited to join Jeff, Joe and Dave on a mountain climbing expedition. Camp Muir is the base camp before groups make the final assent to the top of Mr. Rainier. You will probably never catch me on such a grueling hike but I guess the guys think it is fun.On the way up Daniel, who insisted on wearing canvas shoes and shorts, dropped one of his ski poles down a steep hill and had to go down to get it. Apparently it is a pretty tough climb back up.The views from the camp are spectacular!On the way back down there are places that you can sit and slide making it quite a bit faster than the uphill hike. Jack, unfortunately, got sliding so fast that he twisted his knee tearing his meniscus. So sometime next week he will be getting surgery to repair his knee. Yikes!! Way to make make the weekend last.

After a good time Daniel was ready for a good long rest.

Stake Enrichment

2009-05-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

I was asked to do a table display at our stake enrichment a couple of weeks ago. My table theme was how family traditions help to deepen our family roots. I divided it up in four categories.

Play Together
Work and Serve Together:Celebrate Together:Worship Together:I had a good time putting together this display. Our family is so steeped in traditions and we enjoy being together so much, it was fun sharing.

Life is Best in Your Own Backyard.

2009-05-22T22:52:00.001-07:00

I Love Summer.

I think that our backyard is a nature preserve now. The squirrels some running when I call them. They like peanuts. The goldfinches like having pool parties in our fountain, a possum likes to walk along the fence at 10:00 every night, and now we even have a wild cottontail bunny that keeps showing up in the yard. You would think that we lived in the country instead of a big city.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

2009-05-22T22:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my friend, Ruth, had an extra ticket to the Mariners game. Knowing that I am a big baseball fan she called me to see if I wanted to go. I love the Mariners but also the prospect of spending the evening laughing it up with Ruth sounded like lots of fun!

We have some friends that are season ticket holders and have AMAZING seats. They are members of the Diamond Club and we sat in their box seats. Our seats were located about 3 or 4 rows behind the Mariners dugout. Ruth says that no matter how good her seats are or how empty a movie theater is the tallest person with the biggest head will always sit right in front of her. This is her view.

So we moved down a couple of seats and .......This is her view.No in all seriousness we had great seats with a terrific view. Once we spent our life savings on popcorn and hot dogs we settled in for great baseball.
This is Ruth after spending almost $10 on a small drink and about 2 cups of popcorn. Boo Hoo! Or maybe she just didn't want me to take her picture. Sitting behind us was this couple on a date, we decided that he was certain to be the most boring date in the entire world. I think he was a lawyer or something and spent the game time talking about this client or that and estate planning. The poor girl with him, I'm sure, was just hoping the game would end soon. He caught us taking his picture. Opps. (this is totally the BEST picture of me ever taken :( )Back in the old Kingdome days my kids used to love going way up into the nosebleed section and try to get onto the "diamond vision" scoreboard. This is the best we could do last night. Luckily Adrian Beltre hit a double, or maybe they were just talking about my Adrian.
We are also used to sitting up where the crowds are a little louder, and sometimes a little more drunk. In our usual seats you may here fans yelling at the players "You Suck" or maybe "Kill the Ump" but not in the "box" seats. We heard such things as "that was a very disappointing play". Who yells that!! We were so in the nerd section.I am so grateful to have such good friends that I can laugh with and play with!!

Mother's Day

2009-05-17T22:40:00.001-07:00

Last week on Mother's Day I spoke in church. Several people have asked for copies of my talk, so I decided to post it here with a few photos added.
Jack

A baby asked God

A baby asked God, "They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?"

"Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you."

The child further inquired, "But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy."

The Lord said, "Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy."

Again the child asked, "And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?"

The Lord said, "Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak."

"And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?"

God said, "Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray."

"Who will protect me?"

The Lord said, "Your angel will defend you even if it means risking her life."

"But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore."

God said, "Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you."

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, "Lord, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name."

"You will simply call her, 'Mom.'"

Abraham Lincoln said: "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother."

The First Presidency of the Church wrote in 1935: “Motherhood is near to divinity. It is the highest, holiest service to be assumed by mankind. It places her who honors its holy calling and service next to the angels.”

I cite a Jewish proverb: “God could not be everywhere, and so He gave us mothers.”

Are all mothers perfect? Of course not. But motherhood is the holiest service, and as the First Presidency said, those who honor its holy calling are placed next to the angels.

Today is a day to give special honor to mothers. It is a day to give hope, encouragement and inspiration to mothers and to all women, and it is a day to inspire others to honor, encourage and help mothers.

Mothers in the Scriptures

The scriptures provide examples of not only righteous mothers, but also of the sacrifices mothers had to make and the heartache they experienced.

Eve

When God first placed a woman in the Garden of Eden, he asked Adam what she should be called. Adam replied Eve, for she is the mother of all living. Adam and Eve were instructed by the Lord and by angels whom he sent. They were commanded to multiply and replenish the earth. We can be assured they were righteous parents and taught their children God’s commandments and the fullness of the gospel. Imagine the heartache and despair Mother Eve must have felt when she learned that her son Abel had not only been murdered, but he had been murdered by another son, Cain.

Mother of Moses

Turning to the Book of Exodus, we learn of a righteous Israelite mother. She bore a son at a time when the wicked pharaoh of Egypt had ordered all the boy babies of the children of Israel to be drowned in the Nile River. She successfully hid her baby for three months until he was too big to hide any longer. Desperate, she devised a plan to build a basket of bulrushes, put the baby in it and place it at the edge of the river. She sent her daughter Miriam to watch over the baby from afar. The scriptures tell us that Pharaoh’s daughter found the child and although she knew it was a Hebrew child she had compassion on him. Miriam offered to call a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby and thus the infant’s own mother was called to care for him. Because of the wisdom of a mother, one of the greatest of the Lord’s prophets, even Moses, was spared and in time was able to deliver the children of Israel from bondage.

2000 stripling warriors

One of the greatest examples of influence of righteous mothers is from the Book Helaman in the Book of Mormon. You know the story. The people of Ammon were Lamanites who had been converted to the gospel. Because of their great wickedness before their conversion, they made a covenant with God that they would never again shed the blood of another person, even if it meant giving up their own lives. When the nation and the liberty of the people were in grave danger 2000 of their young sons volunteered to go to war under the leadership of Helaman to defend their country, their families, and their liberty. In an epistle to Captain Moroni, Helaman wrote:

“And now I say unto you, my beloved brother Moroni, that never had I seen so great courage, nay, not amongst all the Nephites.

For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth; we would not slay our brethren if they would let us alone; therefore let us go, lest they should overpower the army of Antipus.

Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.

And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it.”

After the great battle, Helaman recounted:

“And as the remainder of our army were about to give way before the Lamanites, behold, those two thousand and sixty were firm and undaunted.

Yea, and they did obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them; and I did remember the words which they said unto me that their mothers had taught them.”

This account not only is a great example to the youth of courage, faith and valor, but it is also a great example to every mother of the power of mothers teaching their children with faith and testimony. What a blessing it would be in the world if every young man or woman could say with conviction, “We do not doubt, our mothers knew it.”

Grandma Robison

In my own life I have witnessed the great attributes of mothers. I have but a few memories of my dear sweet grandmother, Nellie Hinckley Robison. She passed away at the age of 91, when I was only four-years old. She lived in an apartment on the back of my uncle’s home. Every morning with me in tow, my mother would go there and cook breakfast for her. I remember that I would ask her for a piece of the bacon my mother had put on her plate. Mom would gently scold me telling me that was grandma’s bacon. Then grandma would share it with me. When I was much older I learned more about the example and heritage she left her family. She was born in 1870 in Cove Fort, a fort Brigham Young had sent her father to build in central Utah. As a child she became crippled and had to walk with the aid of a crutch her entire life. Although her body was weak, she had an iron will. She gave birth to eight children and grieved as three of them died before reaching adulthood. She supported my grandfather in a move to the scorching desert of Southern Nevada. They cleared land to farm and 100 years ago this spring they planted their first crop. It was nearly time for a successful first harvest when a great flash flood inundated the valley and destroyed their crop and nearly all they had. Their livestock died in the desert heat, and yet they persevered. Grandma never let physical handicaps or challenges stop her. Her surviving children grew up strong in the gospel and with the sure knowledge of her strength and her willingness to serve the Lord. I believe they could all say “We do not doubt, our mother knew it.”

My Mother

My own mother, Josephine Robison Walsh, celebrated her 93^rd birthday two weeks ago. She is my grandmother’s last remaining child. I will mention but two of her great attributes of motherhood: first her sense of humor. Her cousin, President Gordon B. Hinckley said, “In all of living have much fun and laughter. Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured.” Mom truly lives with that philosophy. The very fact that she fell in love and married my father proves that she had a sense of humor.

My parents were born in the same community and lived the first few years of their lives on neighboring farms in Logandale, Nevada. My father’s family moved when he was a six or seven and they did not see each other again for many years. My father joined the navy and while stationed at Pearl Harbor joined the church.

In his life history my father tells the story of how they became reacquainted when he was on shore leave in California: “On Sunday morning Oct. 3, 1937, my navy buddy Monty and I walked into Sunday school at the Long Beach Ward and sat down about halfway back in the chapel. Shortly two young women walked in and sat down in the seats directly in front of us. We hadn’t been able to get a look at their faces, but being young sailors, and perhaps a bit brassy, we were determined to make them look back at us, so we could wee what they looked like. Monty looked at me as though to say, you’re the mouthy one. Say something dumb and startling.” I shrugged and I guess he felt he should prod my creativity, so he asked in a loud whisper, “and what are we going to do after church today?” Then in one of my bursts of spontaneous idiocy, I replied, “Oh get drunk as usual, I guess.” Both of those pretty heads instantly swiveled around to see what sort of cretins were sitting behind them. Their faces were vaguely familiar to me but it didn’t really ring a bell in my memory. Later when we went to Sunday School Class, the teacher started introducing visitors. He looked at the elder of the two girls who had been sitting in front of us and said, “Rose, we’ll start with you. You haven’t been here for several months. How about introducing yourself and your sister” Rose announced. I am Rose Robison of Logandale, Nevada and this is my sister Josephine.” One could have knocked me over with a feather. The Robison girls—our nearest neighbors when I was a small boy.”

After an introduction like that, Mom had to have a sense of humor. Still at 93 she laughs and jokes. She lives the principle that life is to be enjoyed, not just endured and she has passed it on to her children.

The other great attribute of motherhood that I would like to mention is service. Growing up there was an elderly woman, Mrs. Lyman, whom my mother would visit every week or so. Some of my earliest memories was my mother taking me along on her visits to Mrs. Lyman. As soon as I was old enough to push a lawn mower, that it what I would be doing when Mom made those visits. I never questioned why we visited Mrs. Lyman or why I always mowed her lawn. That was just the way it was. It was years before I realized that considering some of the challenges that my own family was facing, that my mother must have been making quite the sacrifice to so diligently visit and help this elderly lady. I’m quite sure that Mom wasn’t her visiting teacher, she was simply doing what she knew she should do.

I also never questioned why we nearly always had other children living in our home. I must have been four or five when Craig, a little boy a year or two older than me lived with us. There was Della. She was the daughter of one of my father’s distant relatives. Here parents were apparently going through a difficult time and our home provided a more stable environment. LouIra was a young Indian girl that lived with us during the time that my parents were called to serve a stake mission in the branch at the Moapa Indian Reservation. When my brother, who is 13 years older than I am, was a missionary in Mexico there was a family in a ward that he served in that had some type of problem. Teresa, their teenage daughter lived with us for two school years. When I was in high school one of my cousins who was a single mother was having a hard time raising her teenage son. Danny was soon living with us. Until I became a parent, I never realized the sacrifice that my parents and especially my mother made by raising other children in their home. Growing up I simply thought it was what everyone would do.

Judy’s Mom

My mother-in-law, Jennie VanderHoeven, is another great example of motherhood. A great part of her legacy is the strong family bonds she forged. As Judy’s siblings married and moved back to this area, Mom’s influence created the tradition that Saturday afternoons and evenings were the time for the entire family to get together. Though she has passed on, her children, grandchildren and now great grandchildren still get together nearly every Saturday evening—mostly recently last evening—to visit, laugh–and invariably eat—and to keep our family bonds strong over the generations.

Judy

The most important mother in my life is the mother of my children, my eternal sweetheart, Judy. I am continually amazed that the Lord has blessed me with such a amazing wife. She is an example of many wonderful attributes of motherhood. One that I will mention now is how she a friend to our children. When the kids have problems or concerns they know that she will listen and that she is always there for them. Our family may be a little different. When our children have headed out to college and are on their own, if they have a question about cooking they call me. But with most of life’s trials it is Mom that they call. How often do teenagers consider their mother to be one of their best friends? But in our family Judy had cultivated a relationship of trust, friendship and respect. She is truly among their best friends and they are her best friends.

Finally my sweetheart is also a peacemaker. She hates contention and strives to create peace in our family and in all of our relationships. Friday night we were out on an exciting date enjoying the 99 cent menu at Wendy’s. As we observed the interaction between other couples and families I told Judy that I was thankful we did not fight with each other and that I could not remember the last time either one of us raised our voice to the other one. She simply replied that she thought we were both to lazy to fight. It takes a lot less energy to get along with each other, she said. I’m not quite sure that it is laziness, but what ever it is, I’m thankful that Judy is a peacemaker and that she is setting an example for our children to be peacemakers as well.

Motherhood: the Holiest Service

As I said before, are mothers perfect? Of course not. None of the mothers that I just talked about are perfect. But motherhood is the holiest of callings and those who honor that calling are placed next to the angels. God has blessed women with the seeds of something special that is more than simply biological. Just as my mother served unselfishly mothering children she did not bare as well as her own children, women can serve as mothers to adopted children, foster children, nieces, nephews, children in the church and in the community. The need for mothers is great. Carol, a wonderful lady who I worked with years ago, one day told me what her little grandson who was adopted said to her: “Most babies come from their mommy’s tummies, but I came from my mommy’s heart.” It is my hope that all babies, whether or not they come from their mothers’ tummies, will come from their mothers’ hearts.

I pray that mothers of all types will be ever mindful of the holy calling that the Lord has given them and that each of us will always honor, love and support those angels we call Mom.

Happy Birthday Laura!!

2009-05-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Laura's first birthday
Wow the last fourteen years have just flown by! My youngest, Laura, is turning 14 today. Laura is such a fun girl, she loves to dance and hang out with her friends and cousins. She is growing up to be such a beautiful young woman. Happy Birthday Laura, We love you!!!

Happy Birthday to Sarah too. Her birthday is next Saturday.

Don't Miss This

2009-04-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

The Pacific Ballroom Dance annual concert is coming up. This is a great show that you will not want to miss. For tickets and more information go to pacificballroom.org and please remember to credit your ticket sale to Laura Walsh!! Thanks, and see you at the concert.

Earth Day in the Park

2009-04-19T18:26:00.000-07:00

Jack is our stake's community affairs director and for several years now he has helped to organize a volunteer project with the city of Federal Way, Tacoma parks and King County parks. We try to get neighbors in the community to come out and help with efforts to clean and maintain our parks. It is always such a successful undertaking. This year there were several hundred volunteers in six parks. We were also blessed that is was such a beautiful day.

Federal Way, Jovita Creek and Hylebos wards cleared vines at Celebration Park
Dash Point ward members at Alderwood Park

Our ward, the Silver Lake ward was at Wedgewood Park

Kaleb Travers, Jonah Jepson and friend hauling branches

Bishop Swanson

Ron Cross

Janell Siens, Twila Hoffman and Curtis Hoffman
Gary Sabin raking berry vines (he had blisters today)

Food Storage Gone VanderHoeven Machine

2009-04-19T17:40:00.000-07:00

The prophets have been telling us for decades that we needed to gather in our food storage. Our church leaders have counseled us to “prepare every needful thing” (see D&C 109:8) so that, should adversity come, we can care for ourselves and our neighbors and support bishops as they care for others."

Our family has tried through the years to follow this counsel but we haven't always been very successful. Since I come from an extended family that works very well together (thus the nickname VanderHoeven Machine) and as my mother used to always say, "Many hands make light work", we decided to work this out together.

Pam's livingroom totally full of empty cans

Pam checked out the canning machine from the Kent bishop's storehouse and Jacki brought one from the Marysville storehouse. Pam picked up 400, yes that is right, 400 empty #10 cans with lids and oxygen packets. Each family purchased what ever they wanted to drypack can and we were ready to work. I wasn't able to get too many good pictures because we were all busy.

Kirsten working the caner with Jennifer labeling

Valerie and I filling cans

Pam with a whole tub of rice or something

It felt good to be following the counsel of the prophets and we had a lot of fun working together. Luckily we had Mike and Adrian there to haul cans and garbage out. Pam said it took her about four hours to clean her house the next day because of flour, rice and other food stuffs that the kids were able to track throughout the house. Now the next big issue will be where am I going to store all of this stuff!