Kristi's Page

Cruisin the Panama Canal!

2012-01-16T10:34:00.000-08:00

We had an entire day to watch the process of crossing through the Panama Canal! What a neat experience it was...so much to see...so much to learn about. This was the sight of us first entering the canal lanes on the Atlantic Ocean side. There are two lanes, and you can see the cruise ship in

front of us as it's being raised in the locks ahead.

These are the "mules" they attach to your ship. Six mules in all, two in the front and one on the back of each side. They have guide wires that keep the ship straight and in line to move along the canal.

Here we are coming into the first lock, and then they close the lock behind you and start filling it up. It rises fairly fast, 28 ft. and then you are ready to go into the next lock, three in all for a total of 84 ft.

This is how much room there is on each side! Only about a ft. and a half to two ft!

A look ahead as we approach the last lock, out onto Gatun lake where they built the dam that supports the rise in water for the ships to pass across Panama 84 ft. above sea level.

This is the thick jungle they had to cut through to be able to dig the canal.

Grandpa and Brent at the back of the boat, as the locks close behind us!

Views from out in the lake where we spent the better part of the day.

Approaching the Continental Divide, the highest part! There is a beautiful Centennial Bridge there for Panamanians to cross from one side to the other. These are views of the cuts and terracing that needed to be made for them to dig through the Divide!

Our ship barely clearing the bridge!

Entering into the set of locks on the other side, to start going back down.

You could see the spires of the Temple amidst all the greenery and towards Panama City in the background.

The double set of locks in the last bunch. The second doors are just a safety thing!

Looking back through the last locks that we had just passed through,

going on to the Pacific Ocean side.

Here are some of the pics from our ship The Queen Victoria, Cunard Line. It was very beautiful,

and all decorated for Christmas. It was very "British" and classy!!

The main swimming pool area.

The grand lobby area.

The huge theater and balconies.

Brent and I headed to dinner the night of my Birthday.

The Winter Garden room.

The buffet areas.

The "Queen's Room" a beautiful ballroom and tea time area.

The day after we crossed the Panama Canal, we visited Puntarenas, Costa Rica.

We went on a bus tour with Mom and Dad. We enjoyed Costa Rica very much!

This is the plant that the cocoa beans come from. They are in the white core of the plant, in pods.

We also got quite a treat, they took us to a park and some school children came and danced for us in their native costumes. They were beautiful children!! We enjoyed seeing them so much!

Just some of the sights along the way...the sugar can fields...

The coconut and mango trees...

Awesome fruit stands line the streets...

Everything was so green and pretty, with so many different trees and flowers and fruits growing everywhere!

They have so many different species of trees, that they gather them all together to make different crafts. These trays are an example of all the beautiful woods .

More of the crafts and carvings they do out of the various woods.

And their beautiful brown sand beaches!

One of the main cathedrals in the town square, and the grounds around it!

C is for Carter, B for Brielle...

2011-11-28T15:12:00.000-08:00

A great big birthday wish for Carter Jaron Simonson....age 9 on November 23rd! Carter is such a sweet and considerate young man. He is quiet and polite and always thinking of others. I can't think of a bigger sweetheart!! We love him and miss him so much!

On November 30th, little miss Brielle Lynn Larsen will turn 2 years old! She is such a beautiful little girl! We want to wish her a very Happy Birthday, also. She has a mind of her own...but is generally happy and sweet and is such a little doll. We love her so much and miss her a ton also!

It's never fun being away from your grandchildren...We are grateful for the chance we had to spend with each of them this year in our travels, and their visits here for the wedding. I hope they will all be back closer to home very soon!! Happy Birthday!

My Family....

2011-11-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

My family never cease to amaze me! I don't think anything I do myself is very amazing, unless you count the amazing love and pride that I have in my family! My kids get it from their dad...Brent, who has always been a busy guy. He is a little of a workaholic! Throughout our lives together, there have been many times that he will say, "I can do that!" And I think, "????" and then just to prove me wrong...he does it! He takes on jobs that seem impossible and makes them possible...he does anything he puts his mind to! Now I must say in this spot that he isn't always great at it...he sometimes comes up with some shoddie things, or 'half baked' ideas that don't quite pan out the way he wants...and he's not a perfectionist, but his ambition makes up for the lack of skill!

In his life I have seen him build toys for the kids, sew, build trailers, have a welding business, build a house, make a canoe from scratch, repair cars, trucks, snowmachines and other machines and maintain them, build shops and garages, start businesses, make concrete countertops, remodel homes...etc, etc, etc. He always seems to have a new project going and never seems to get tired!

Most of our married life he has risen before the sun, sometimes 5:00 or 6:00 and gone to work, and then gotten off work early, like 2:00 or 3:00 and gone on to another job, remodeling, or working on countertops until 10:00 or 11:00 at night! He makes things, he builds things, he fixes things!
All of which I am grateful for immensely! Most of all, I am grateful for the example he has set for our kids.

I see Brent's work ethic in Jaron, who puts in timeless hours of work and still has ambition for other interests as well, who loves to cook and is an amazing chef, and who has made things for his own home and kids. Whenever he is around, he is always willing to pitch in and help me when it comes to getting food ready for big groups and such...he can get it done!

I see Brent's drive and creativity in Trisha, who pitches in and helps with ANY project there is...loves to put things together and work with tools. In her first house she spent countless hours tearing out the old floor and helping to put a new one in. She has started her own craft business now working with tons of tools and things that I couldn't even imagine doing, turning out the most remarkable things! She is also an amazing homemaker, cooking wonderful dishes, decorating and painting her house!

Clinton also takes after Brent, loves to build things, helped build his own house, did all the rock work, has taught himself to do amazing tile work and has his own little business doing it. He also encouraged his dad to enter into the concrete business...learning, working, and being a great partner in that with us! He also is great at cooking and making things for his home and boys! While working in Boise, his car broke down, and he didn't know anything about it, but he looked it up, talked with his dad, and went and got the new part and fixed it himself!

Tanessa is so talented and ambitious as well. She often takes on projects of making quilts, clothes, accessories and other things for her home and kids. She taught herself how to make and decorate beautiful wedding cakes, creative cupcakes, and is an excellent chef herself. She made a Simonson family cookbook for all of us with our favorite recipes. And when asked what she wanted for Christmas, she said, "A chop saw!" With buying a new house, I think she will be following in Trisha's footsteps as a decorator and crafter!

And lastly, Jacob is probably the very most like his Dad. He is diligent as a worker, never shirks any kind of work, he is good at everything he does, and he IS a perfectionist! He has developed quite the talent in his school work for art and architecture and has created so many projects of drawing, models, and such. Each one has endless hours of work in them and are remarkable! He is also good at building things, remodeling things, working on cars, and projects of crafts and household things. He was a great help to Brent in many jobs these last few years of remodeling, countertops, etc. The other day he ordered a printer, that came broken...so he took it apart and fixed it!

Just something my husband would do also!

My family truly amazes me!
I am so proud of them all!

Happy Birthday, Addi and Grant!

2011-11-03T21:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to two of my beautiful grandchildren!!

I love you both so very much!

Addisyn Larsen, Oct. 29th - 5 years old

Smart, Precocious, Charming, Sly, Adorable, Inventive....LOVED!!

Grant Evans, Nov. 1st - 4 years old

Sweet, Talented, Handsome, Ambitious, Smiley, Fun....LOVED!

These two are delightful and a joy in our lives!!

September? Where did it go?

2011-09-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

September is a big month for the Simonson family! We celebrate a few birthdays...

Just wanted to wish all of them a Happy Birthday!

Brent on the 13th...Happy Birthday, Honey!
We all Love you...you're the best!

Ali on the 18th...What a lovely 9 yr. old!
You're a doll...and I love ya! Happy B-day, Ali!

Trisha on the 24th...my beautiful 31 year old daughter...Happiest Birthday, with lots of love!

Jaron on the 27th...my oldest son, 33 & dear
to my heart...Love you much! Happy Birthday!

This month is such a special one...
It's Birthday time for us!

Cannot believe it has come and gone...

We'll sing a song that we all know...
Happy Birthday, to You!

New Arrivals...

2011-08-17T16:19:00.000-07:00

Well, the end of July has come and gone, and we are well into August with Fall right close behind! Here in Inkom, school starts in just 5 short days, and I'm not liking the part about summer being over! It was way too short! A lot of things have been happening these last few weeks, so here's the summary:

We have a new grandbaby!

Pierce Von Larsen made his arrival on July 27th.

I had a day in between the Dworshak trip and Florida to get some clothes washed and packed and then it was time to fly out! It was good to see Tess and Jake and the little girls! I even had a few memorable encounters along my way! I ran into John Wayne Shultz (American Idol contestant) in the Salt Lake airport. He was also a missionary in the same mission as the Nelson's in our Ward, so I led with that! We had a nice visit and he was very sweet and fun to talk to! Then when Jake picked me up in Orlando, we all of a sudden noticed a black truck in front of us with a "Prisoner Transport" person standing next to it...and low and behold, he was taking hand cuffs off from Casey Anthony! I guess she had been in hiding, and no one knew where she was, but we saw her being transported to the airport that night...just 20 ft. in front of us! So those were my airport encounters.

Anyway...it was wonderful to be there with Tess and we got to go to Stake-n-Shake first thing!

Addi and Brielle

It was not long after we got home from lunch that we took Tanessa to the hospital, and she delivered Pierce even before suppertime! Super quick! He weighed 7 lbs. 14 oz., was 21" long and was born at 5:03 p.m.

He is such a doll!

While I was in Florida, Brent was busy finishing up his big concrete order. They got them all installed on Saturday, July 30th.

Kitchen area

Bathrooms and hand painted sinks...

Wet bar and laundry room.

They all turned out great! He got them in just in time to go for a motorcycle ride, get tipped off, and break his other collar bone! lol (He is mending quickly and is almost as good as new!)

Along with our little trip to Dworshak came the arrival of our new pickup!! Well, new to us. Brent sold our pickup just days before our trip, so we had to hurry and buy another one so we could go!

We were able to find this Avalanche in Salt Lake and we rather like it. I have affectionately named it G.G. (gas guzzler), but it has a lot of power, and the leather seats inside are nice and comfortable, so I guess we will enjoy it for awhile!

Also, on August 15th my mom and dad celebrated their 59th Wedding Anniversary! So I will wish them a very happy anniversary here. They are wonderful parents, so giving and loving! I appreciate all they do for us and are so very proud to call them "Our Family".

(My Mom will kill me, but she sent me her official Anniversary picture...and this is what I got!)

While they were out celebrating, mom stubbed her toe on some uneven ground and took a fall...right on her face!! She says she is doing better, but she doesn't look so hot to me!! Get well soon, mom!

Dworshak...the experience!

2011-08-09T15:47:00.000-07:00

We had the opportunity to go back up to Dworshak Reservoir the end of July. We were there 2 years ago with Trisha and Danny and had so much fun! This year Jake and Janelle were able to get off work and go with us, and Danny was able to take a couple of days and they met us there on Wed. the 21st. We hauled all the stuff across the lake and set up our camp.

We were right on the edge of the water, up on an embankment...it was so pretty to look out over the lake at night with the moon shining.

There was a little sandy beach right below us.

Jake and Janelle and Ali and Grant going down to explore.

On Thursday, we woke up to kind of a cool morning. We were all wearing our jackets and staying near the fire for a while. But the sun broke free and we took off for the dock. They have these cool freestanding docks out in the middle of the Reservoir. They are big squares that have an open area in the middle for swimming. We set up our chairs and canopy on the dock, where there's a picnic table and such. It's so fun to hang out there! Here's some pictures of the dock, and you will notice a few white boys...farmer's tans...to go along with them!!

Like father, like son!

"We need a little sunshine!"

Grandma hanging out with the kids...
notice we have tans!!

We were all alone on the dock...we could come and go as we pleased. It's so pretty with all the trees!

We did a lot of boating. Jacob and Danny tried out the new Wakeskate.
A little harder than it looked!

Trisha, Dan, Jake, and Brent all skied, and Janelle tried slalom for the first time.

Ali even tried skiing for the very first time! She did so well and got up a couple of times...not for very long, but she did Great!

The tubing is always fun! Here's Trisha and Danny's family all tubing together!

That afternoon while they were tubing, they found some cool rocks where they could climb up and jump off. They all took turns, higher and higher, even Ali jumped! We got the best pictures and videos...until the last day when my camera flew into the Reservoir...never to be seen again! (So these pictures are courtesy of Danny and Trisha!!) Sorry, no rock diving pictures this year!

That evening back at camp, we had a great dinner (thanks to Trisha) of pulled pork sandwiches! Their family went on a little hike and picked some wild blackberries and she made us a super yummy cobbler, which we all snarfed up so fast! Later as we were walking around we kept seeing all these little frogs. We told Janelle, and she just went right over there and scooped one up! Before the night was over she had grabbed two more! "George" was the first one. "Larry" the BIG one!

Ali and Grant showing off the frogs!

Jacob couldn't be outdone! He had to hold "Larry"!

The next day, we headed back over to the dock for a little more fun!

Complete with snacks...

and sun bathing...

swimming...

...and a little "showing off" for the camera!!

There's never a time with Danny and Jacob that there's not some kind of game or competition going on! They played a little "Football Dive" off the dock!

Not sure why Danny was diving so soon??
That ball's not even close!

Get that ball!!!

It was a little cooler that day, so the "Kid Rock" outfit made it's appearance!

And now, "Kid Rock" is married!! So the matching suits came out!!

Along with the fashion shows...

Then it was time to get down to some serious tubing!

Jake and Janelle got some wild rides, and then Danny joined them.

Trisha and Danny got their crazy rides next.

They all had a "screaming" great time!

We all had a really awesome time...
smiles all around!
Hopefully another year we will have more family that can go with us!

And what do you do when the need arises

and you're on the lake?

Now THAT's a tan!

(thanks to Trisha and Danny for their pictures!)

July...

2011-07-12T21:28:00.000-07:00

June has come and gone...a very busy month for our family! All of our children were able to come home for Jacob's wedding, along with most of their families. It was a chaotic, but fun week, with preparations for the wedding, lots of food prep, building a wedding cake, some social events, and lots of visiting and hanging out! What a joy it was for Brent and I as parents to see all of our children in the temple together! It was a joyous day as Jacob Von, married his sweetheart, Janelle Marie.

As they emerged from the Logan Temple...our first look at the newlyweds!

The Wright's, some of our best friends...and now we're related!

Our forever family...Grandparents, kids, grandkids...it's what it's all about!

June 18, 2011 - The Logan Temple

Jacob and Janelle Simonson

Daniel and Trisha Evans, with Ali and Grant

Clinton and Katie Simonson, with Corgin and Linkoln

Jake and Tanessa Larsen, with Brielle and Addi

Our grandchildren, Carter, Emmy, Ali, Addi, Grant Corgin and Ashton
with Brielle and Linkoln in front.

Jaron was able to come with 3 of his children, Emmy, Carter, and Ashton, but we didn't get an individual picture with them. Heather and Lily were unable to come, and their family was not complete, but we were so happy that some of them were here. It was great to see them!

Our Simonson family! Love them all!!

Which brings us to July, and our only birthday of the month
(until later this month, maybe!)

Tanessa Lynn, our youngest daughter, will turn 26 on July 15th!

She is a joy and blessing in our lives, is a wonderful mother to Addisyn and Brielle, is an awesome wife to Jake, and is presently expecting our 11th grandchild...

a baby boy, due around the end of this month!

It was quite a sacrifice for her to come to Idaho for the wedding this late in her pregnancy, and also very uncomfortable for her, too, but there was nothing that could stop her from being here! She is so fun, and extremely talented, and we love her so much! Happy Birthday Tessy!

The wedding cake that Tess made for the reception, along with help from Jaron and Trisha!

May... as in MAYbe Spring will come??

2011-05-27T07:26:00.000-07:00

Before I get too far ahead of myself...I must mention that our newest little grandson, Linkoln Paul...turned 1 the end of April.
April 27th to be exact! He is such a smiley little guy, and so cute!! We love having him so close by
so we can hug and kiss on him so often! Happy Birthday Linky-poo!

Then moving on into may, came the engagement, and then the end of school and moving home, of Jacob and Janelle! We are heavy into plans for a beautiful June wedding. June 18th to be exact! We are hoping the weather will finally be nice and our yard can have some time to recover, but are looking forward to having everyone home for the event!

In May, Katie and Clint went on a dream cruise for their vacation...a Mexican Riviera cruise for a week...and we got to watch the boys! A week with these two wild indians!! haha...
They were a lot of work, but a lot of fun too!

Then brings us to the end of May, and we celebrate twice on the 27th! It's Clinton's Birthday!! Yes, he was born on our 5th Anniversary, so that makes him 29! He is always up for fun...he loves to joke and tease us and would be pretty good at it, if he wasn't so honest...he always confesses too quickly!! haha He loves to fish and do things outdoors, is an excellent tiler and helps his Dad alot with the concrete work, he is a great Father and Husband and is so good with the boys!
We wish him a very Happy Birthday!! Love you, Clinton!

And today...well, it's our 34th Anniversary! Yes...I've been driving Brent Crazy for 34+ years!!

I am happy to say that I think we are in a "good place" and are enjoying our empty nesting years. We love our kids and grandkids, and enjoy living in Inkom, in our new home that we built together. We will celebrate together with a little weekend "getaway", and I'm sure we will have a great time!
Happy Anniversary to my wonderful husband...I love you!

So much for May...it has come and gone SO fast...on to June...
family + wedding = FUN!!!

Random trip to Lewiston/Moscow

2011-05-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

I took a little trip up to Northern Idaho. There was a lot going on up there, and I just wanted to see them all and be a part of it!

AND, a trip to Lewiston would not be complete without a trip to Waffles and More!

Grant and his funny face waffle.

Ali enjoying the hot chocolate

And Grant's favorite!!! The Whipped Cream!

I said there was a lot going on...well, I was able to be there when the ring finally showed up, so I got to be a part of the engagement! Jake and Janelle are engaged to be married on June 18th! We are excited to have her as part of our family, although she already has been...it will finally be official!

While I was there, the Young Women of the Institute Wards gave her a little bridal shower, and she invited Trisha and I. It was fun to be there and take part. She was so cute! and funny!

There must be something in the water in Moscow...all six of these friends got engaged in the last few months and are all getting married right away! Janelle was the youngest engagee!!

Then, the main reason I went to Lewiston...because Danny invited me to come see him for his Birthday! Sorry to say, but I had to leave the day before his birthday, and his present I ordered him didn't even make it in time...so I felt pretty bad about that! I didn't even get a picture of him on this trip, so I will use one from an earlier birthday...he still looks the same! haha

He is a great part of our family, we enjoy his smile, his antics, his charisma, his charm...and we are so proud of the person that he is and has become! Happy Birthday, Danny, love you!

Cruise 2011...

2011-04-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

With such a belated Spring, a cruise was a huge delight this year. We left on April 13th for a 10 day cruise to the Eastern/Southern Caribbean! It was so great to see the sunshine!! I just can't tell you how happy it made me feel! We were aboard the Princess Star, which was a lovely ship (just like our Grand Princess we had sailed on with our kids).

Our first stop was in the Bahamas, at Princess Cays...

It was a fun first stop, with a lot of relaxing in the shade for Brent, and some sun and swimming and food...then back on board to our next destination, St. Thomas. Usually, I have not much loved being in St. Thomas, but this time, we took our snorkel gear and headed to Paradise Beach. Wow...what a beautiful beach, with some really fun things to see while snorkeling.

I saw a huge starfish, and swam a little ways with a sea turtle...we also saw this cool iguana on the beach.

We ended up in a cab with a little family from Beaverton, Oregon, The Watts...who, turned out to be LDS and a cute little family that we spent quite a bit of time with, snorkeling and hanging out on the ship. They were awesome, and so much fun!

Chris, Joe, Ivan, and Elaine

After snorkeling, we took a little drive around, a lot of things we had already seen, and a quick stop to the linen shop...and then back on board to our next destination...Dominica...our favorite always!

This year, since we had toured Dominica previously a couple of times, we decided we would go up to the tram and take a ride through the rain forest.

What a beautiful sight! So many different trees and ferns, and flowers and follage!

A look out over the River Gorge.

At the top, we got off the tram and walked down a ways, across a huge suspension bridge and through the forest, then another amazing ride down, way up on top of the tram with a whole different view!

We really enjoyed the tour and once again, found more reasons to love Dominica!

Our next destination was Grenada, which we had toured previously, and we were in the mood for a little down day, so we got off the ship just shortly to smell the spices and do a little shopping. We bought some fresh nutmeg and a few things like that, and then just spent the rest of the day on the ship watching movies, and eating!!

Our next stop was Bonaire...we have never been there, so we were excited to see something new! When the ship docked, it was a very different view from all the previous islands...which are mountainous and green. Bonaire was FLAT!

Still very green and pretty...and lots of awesome beaches and coral reefs for snorkeling! We heard it was the best in the world for scuba and snorkeling...so we teamed up once again with our little Watts' family and headed to Eden Beach. (The locals called it Bongo Beach, and said it was the BEST for snorkeling!)

It was a little overcast that day, but still the snorkeling was awesome! # 2 best place for us...(#1 has to be Longhouse Beach in Kauai!) I think if the sun had been out in full force, the colors and fish would have been even better, but they were amazing, and a very fun day on the beach!

Brent will kill me for this picture, but I thought it was cute! His funny little smile when he's eating...

Then of course...on to Aruba! It's been 12 years or so since we've been there...and wow has it changed! We decided to take a tour of the island...which was fascinating, but after I saw the beaches, I kinda wished we had just gone to the beach for some snorkeling...they were Awesome!

We stopped at some cool rock formations...

And we saw this cute little church out in the middle of the cactus...

We also visited the California Lighthouse...

I was impressed by how clean everything was, and how sharp all the houses were painted and taken care of. We saw so many amazing houses...

And the strip by the beaches had some pretty impressive hotels...

And the beaches...again...very AWESOME!

Then it was time to get back on the ship for a couple of days AT SEA!! Which was really a great two days to lay in the sun...watch some shows...eat a TON of food and just relax!

We opted this year to take a tour trip when we got back into Ft. Lauderdale, before going to the airport for the flight home. We took a great Airboat ride through the Florida Everglades and saw some great alligators, complete with a little alligator wrestling...

And then we went to the Flamingo Gardens for a tour of the botanical gardens and the beautiful flamingos and peacocks there...

It was a wonderful 10 days...so very blessed to be able to go and spend time with each other, we are so spoiled!!

Spring Break!

2011-04-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to have Trisha and Ali and Grant come down from up north to spend their Spring Break with us! We had planned some fun things for the week. Little did we know that Spring Break would include a couple of snow storms along the way! They weren't too sure about everything when they saw the snow...SPRING??! But we took off for Salt Lake anyway, and much to our delight...Katie and Clint and the little boys were able to come also and meet up with us! So we spent a few days at Grandpa and Grandma Hamblin's house...messing things up and running in and out!! They were good enough to let us all crash there, whenever, and make us lots of food, that we didn't finish up...and also take us all out to Golden Corral for dinner our last night also!! Thank you for being our Bed and Breakfast and for putting up with all our mess!!

Monday was spent just getting there...we had to stop along the way at Smith and Edwards, and Tai Pan...and Clint had to do some tiling before they could leave...but we all met up Monday evening at Grandpa and Grandma's. Then Tuesday morning, we all took off for Hogle Zoo. The sun was shining when we left...but it was still pretty chilly! It was okay with jackets on, and we managed to have some fun and see quite a few animals along the way! The kids had fun playing together and looking at all the different animals. Grant and Corgin got to ride in their own little zoo safari jeep...We had a good time and didn't freeze to death!

Corgin, Ali, and Grant by the Tigers

Corgin was not going to take his eyes off of that Tiger for a picture!

Ali and Grant checking out the cool giraffe!

The kids all loved climbing on the animal statues all over the zoo!

We had a great time there, and then got to go have a wonderful lunch together and visit and eat to our hearts content! Then Clint and Katie took off to go to Ikea and do some shopping, but we wanted to take Ali and Grant to Temple Square, since they had never seen it. We had a great time there looking around and touring things. Ali took a ton of pictures...she was really INTO it all!!

Ali and Trisha were also able to go down to the Bountiful Temple where Grandpa and Grandma Hamblin work, and they met them for a tour.

On Wednesday, we had a fun filled shopping day to include Target and Kohl's...but had an anticipated trip to Chuck E Cheese!! Grant was so excited he could hardly stand it!! Aunt Katie got a picture of the kids with Chuck E Cheese...

Thursday brought about one more shopping spree at Kohl's and then on home for some hair appointments and dinner with Grant and Ali's other grandma...Grandma Nelda. It was so fun to have them here, and its always fun to spoil the grandkids, or maybe it's grandma that's spoiled!

Spring Fair...finally ready!

2011-03-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

Yes...our new business is debuting tomorrow at the Spring Fair! We are looking forward to getting our name out there and drumming up some business!! Simonson Custom Works is ready for business...and hopefully it will be a busy and full weekend! Here's our booth (just set up). We still need a few adjustments, but that's it!

www.simonsoncustomworks.com

Spring is Here!!

2011-03-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

I always get so excited to see the date and hear that Spring has finally arrived. You all know how much I love the warmer weather and sunshine to come back after an especially long winter. This winter started clear back in November...early snow, and it has just stayed and stayed. Just this last week, we started getting a little warmer temperatures and the snow was finally starting to melt off from my front lawn. I was beginning to see a thaw!! So now that Spring is here...this is what we woke up to this morning!!

Yay!! Get your swimsuits out...and get ready!!

March...forward

2011-03-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

This month brings about the anniversary of our younger daughter, Tanessa and Jake. They have been married for 6 years on March 5th. The are currently residing in FLORIDA...which is WAY too far away...but they seem to be happy there with all their friends and are active in their Ward, and a great asset. Jake works for Lockhead Martin, and Tanessa is a stay at home mom, with her two beautiful little girls, Addi - 4 and Brielle - 1. They are expecting a little boy to add to their family in July. We are so glad to have Jake in our family, and they are such a good team! Happy Anniversary, Tess and Jake!! We love you both.

On March 9th, we celebrated my Dad's 81st birthday. He continues to be such a great example to me and to all of my family. He is so dedicated to the building up of the Kingdom, as a diligent Temple Worker, a patient Primary Teacher...and endless Historian and Record Keeper! He is our Nephi!! He not only loves life and serving others, but has a great sense of humor, he loves watching sports and follows BYU diligiently, he is a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandpa! He teaches us all patience, love and honor through his mighty example. Happy Birthday, to my Dad, Ray Hamblin...we love you tons!!

March 18th is a great day in our family, because Jacob was born on that day! My baby...Jacob Von will celebrate his 22nd Birthday this Friday! After being gone for two years on a mission to Belgium, it is great to have him home for his Birthday and be able to spoil him (once again)! I can't express how much joy Jacob has brought into our lives, how much he makes us laugh, and how much we love him. We are so glad he is part of our family.

He is dedicated to the things he believes in, he is diligent in the things he undertakes, he is ruthless in his teasing (probably from all the teasing we put him through being the baby of the family!), and he is a wonderful son, and a great brother, grandson, and the role he loves most...an Uncle! He loves the neices and nephews to death! He has a big heart, a kind spirit, and makes us all smile!

I have often referred to him as our mighty warrior in these last days...I truly believe that, corny as it might sound to the rest of you...he is mighty! I love him and wish him the happiest Birthday!

Life's finally slowing down...catch up time!

2011-02-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

In JANUARY...we came home for a week to spend New Year's here. We were able to spend Corgin's Birthday with him on the 1st, and also we were able to spend Grandpa Simonson's last birthday with him and the family also. We got to bring Jacob and Grant home with us during the holiday break, since we weren't going to be here for that long. It was really a fun week here!

Then it was back up to Lewiston for Me, Jake, Janelle, and Grant. We drove two cars and helped Janelle move up to school. And I went back to stay with Miss Ali and Grant while their mom and dad went to Hawaii!! We had a few mishaps while they were gone...the first one being only a few hours after they left...Grant happened to be running right in front of Ali when she swung at a ping-pong ball with the Wii remote! It caught him right beneath his right eye and split it open. Thank goodness we had medical info, and a GPS, and Janelle to hold Grant! We got him steri-stripped up, and hopefully good as new!

Grant and I were also sick while Trisha and Danny were gone, but he was so good to take his medicine, and I didn't have much to do but relax and read...and we felt much better when they came home! Then it was time again to say good-bye and head home. Always the hardest part for Grandma! Grant was ready for me to leave...Ali, not so much...and me neither!

I was only home a few days and then I flew out to Orlando to see Tess and Jake and the little girls. Tanessa was feeling a little homesick after spending the holidays at home this year, with no visits home. So it was great to see them!! Florida was cool...as usual when I go to visit, but Jake and Tess treated me to a really nice vacation! One of the first things we did was go to Steak-n-Shake...MY FAVORITE!! They also took me on a little adventure to St. Augustine. On our way, we stopped by the Datona International Speedway! We had gone by there before, but this time, they were running some trial runs and letting people come in for free to watch the race cars. It was so fun to get to go inside and hear the thunder of the cars!

Then it was off to St. Augustine. What a beautiful old city that was!! It was a little chilly, but the sun was shining, and it was just a gorgeous day! We went and saw the old fort right on the beach and then walked around town to see all the fine buildings and such. It was really pretty!

After St. Augustine, we went on up to Jacksonville and met up with Tanessa's friend, Tenille and her family. We had a good visit and got to eat at a great chicken place with them. It was a really fun day!

Also, one day while I was there, Jake arranged for Tess and I to take the girls into Disneyworld, and we had a really fun day there, just walking around and taking the girls on a few rides...always fun!

While I was there, I was able to spend Birthday time with my son-in-law, Jake, the end of January. Jake is such a blessing to our family, always positive and optimistic and full of hugs and smiles! He is a great husband and father and treats us with the utmost respect. We enjoy having him around...wish he didn't live so far away in FLORIDA!!! But it was fun getting to spend his birthday with him...We love you Jake (Happy Belated Birthday)...again!

Then of course, it was home again, only to face the rather abrupt passing of my father-in-law, and with funeral, family stuff and all the kids coming home suddenly, it was kind of a whirlwind...but a very blessed one! My how we enjoyed all the kids being together with us for a few short days!

Then FEBRUARY started off with our Sweetheart retreat at the Leslie's cabin in Island Park. We couldn't have asked for better company, better snow, or more fun! We have some really awesome friends and enjoy laughing, riding, and eating together. A special thank you to Holli...she is AMAZING!! We love having special things to do and to eat...and she is always prepared...even with a heart shaped box of chocolates left on everyone's bed pillows! We enjoyed great fajitas, a chocolate fountain with tons of fresh fruit, Belgium Waffles...and much, much more. And the snowmachining was great this year! Lots of snow, and smooth trails...tons of sunshine and fun sleds to ride...it started off our second month of the year JUST RIGHT!

Now...it's time to settle in for a little down time, a lot of dieting...and some quiet nights at home! I'll keep you posted.....

Thanks for the memories!

2011-02-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

This last week, we were so privileged to have all our kids here for the weekend. Even though it was under circumstances that were not so good...it was a wonderful weekend for Brent and I. We had a great time visiting and reminiscing, and felt that we had some very special moments with each and every child. We cried together, laughed together, and just felt a special spirit. We have 5 wonderful kids...who have made good choices in their lives, who have chosen good partners to spend their lives with, who have followed the counsel of the prophets, who have served missions, married in the temple, and are true and faithful. We see the Gospel being lived in their homes, with taking their kids to church, teaching them how to pray, having them blessed and baptized. For all of this, we are so blessed and so thankful. I never much felt like a "good" parent, but I have always known I had "good" children! Thank you to each of you, for living the things you were taught, for doing the things you know you should...and for the wonderful weekend we had together last week! To us it was priceless. I love you, I know that Dad loves you, and we appreciate all the sacrifices you had to make to be with us at this special time...

February! Did I hear "a birthday?"

2011-02-08T09:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday today to Ashton...who turned 6! He is just a good looking young man!!

Ashton is full of life and always so animated about everything! He is a cutie and we miss him so, so much! Happy Birthday Ashty-poo!! We love you!

And tomorrow, is our Daughter-in-law, Katie's birthday! We won't tell you how old she is...but we are so blessed to have Katie in our family and part of our lives! She is a great mommy and wife, and is so very accepting of us! We are glad that her and Clint live so close to us...and we wish her the very happiest of birthdays! We love you K-T!

On the 17th is also another special birthday...our oldest Grandchild...Emmaline! Can you believe that she is 10? I can't! She is such a sweetheart...she cares so much for her family, and is such a good big sister to her siblings and a great help to her mom and dad.

Happy Birthday Emmy!! We love you and miss you so very much!

And since February is also a time for love with Valentines and everything... I can't pass up the chance to wish Trisha and Danny a Happy Anniversary! My first kids to get married, and already 11 years now...wow, how time flies! Seems like just yesterday they were here and we were having so much fun together, going to lunch, watching movies...etc, etc!

We are blessed to have Daniel in our family, and Trisha and Danny both are so good to us...we get to do a lot of things with them, and feel so welcome in their home...for that we are so grateful. We love you both! Have a very Happy Anniversary!

Funeral

2011-02-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

On January 27th, Brent's dad, Von Simonson passed away. He had fought Alzheimer's Disease for the last 10 years. It is a blessing for him that he can finally be free of this crippling disease, and that he can be in a better place. It was hard for all of us, probably because we didn't expect it this soon, so it was kind of sudden. All of the kids wanted to be here and started making arrangements immediately to fly home. By Saturday afternoon, they had all arrived and it was good to have all our kids under the same roof again!

Jaron (32), Trisha (30), Clinton (28), Tanessa (25), Jacob (21)

The Family Viewing was on Sunday and the funeral on Monday. All of the grandkids sang at the funeral, "How Great Thou Art". It sounded so beautiful! And Jaron and Tanessa sang Grandma's favorite love song, "Somewhere, My Love" which was really touching. Brent had to speak right after, and it was hard for him to get his emotions in check, but he did a wonderful job. It was a beautiful funeral and a great tribute to his Dad.

Brent's family: Eric, Linda, Wilma, Paula, and Brent

All of the Grandsons were pallbearers.

He was laid to rest in the Grace Cemetery

All of the Simonson grandchildren (except Dustin)

The Von Simonson family:

Brother - Eric and Eva Jean Simonson

Sister - Linda and Randy Hubbard

Mom - Wilma Simonson

Sister - Paula and Terry Larson

Brother - Brent and Kristi Simonson

Happy Birthdays all around!

2011-01-16T21:55:00.000-08:00

Throughout the Holidays, we have a few birthdays in our family that get a little overlooked! Even though it is a little late, just wanted to wish these three a Happy Birthday! I know how it is to get swallowed up by a December birthday, and our early January Birthdays aren't much better!

So on December 30th it was my Daughter-in-law's birthday...Heather. Heather is in Pennsylvania right now pursuing her career attending PA school. It is quite an undertaking for a mother of 4, but she is holding tough and working hard!! She is outgoing and friendly, and is happy and positive about most everything. I hope she had a very Happy Birthday, and will have a great year in school! We are very proud of her accomplishments, and excited about her scholarship award that she was presented earlier this year!

On New Year's day, it was time for our little guy, Corgin Ray, to turn the big three!! Corgin is so expressive and excited about life and everything in it! He loves to play and help Grandma and Grandpa with anything. He is such a good little boy, at minding his mom and dad, and loving his little brother. He is curious, energetic, a little mischevious and a lot of bubble!! Happy Birthday Corgie! We love you.

(I love this picture! It is just Soooooo Corgin!)

Corgin Ray Simonson - age 3

Right behind her cousin, Corgin...came our little Lillian Kristi!

She was born just a few days later, in Boise also, on January 6th. She is the last of my little triplets...I have three, three year old grandchildren, all within a couple of months of each other! Lilly is just the cutest little girl. She has a sweet smile and a loving little heart. She is also the youngest of 4, which keeps her just a little spoiled!! She can pitch a fit when she wants to...but also brings a lot of joy to her mom and dad! It was so fun to get to spend some time with her this last month. She is growing up so very fast...and is bigger than Grant or Corgin (her seniors). She's an adorable little namesake.

Happy Birthday Lilly Mae...I love you so much!

Lillian Kristi Simonson - age 3

Happy Birthday to mommy and daughter...Heather and Lilly!

Christmas in Clarkston!

2010-12-29T14:19:00.000-08:00

This year we traveled to Trisha and Danny's house for the Christmas break. Brent had a week off, and Jacob wanted to work, so we went there for Christmas. Danny and Trisha were excited to spend their first Christmas in their new home and it was a start to a new Christmas tradition for us...with no one coming home for Christmas anymore...we can travel around and spend it with the kids and grandkids in their own homes. Our vacation started the first night we got there, Monday, with a visit to the "Train Park". Lewiston has a park with an old train in it, and they light up all the trees and play music and the kids love to go play on the jumping pads that turn different lights on...and ring the bell on the train...and dance to the music with all the dancing penquin lights...and walk through the tunnels of arches that change color as you walk through. We have gone before, at Thanksgiving time, and have had a lot of fun, so it was good to go back, and the lights were even prettier than ever!

For Christmas Eve, we had a very informal fondue night. Jacob made us real Swiss Cheese fondue, with amazing bread to dip in it... and Trisha had lots of fruit and Chocolate...and for my birthday, they had given me a marble stone grill for cooking meat, so we had steak and chicken to cook on the marble slab. It was fun to stand around the island in the kitchen and just dip and eat and visit! Then the elf brought jammies for the kiddies, and it was time to hang stockings and read the Christmas stories. Ali read us all, "The Shiniest Star"...it was so cute!

Jakey in his new Christmas Eve PJ's...

It was fun to be there Christmas morning when the kids came to see what Santa had brought them! Grant was so excited, he was shaking! We had a wonderful morning opening presents...we were all spoiled rotten! Brent and I were especially blessed with so many nice things. It was a great Christmas, and so fun to get to spend the entire day with family. So many times at home, we would all open presents and then everyone would leave for the in-laws...leaving us to spend a long, quiet day alone, so this year was very rewarding to play all day together and have so much family time!

And no...Danny has not gotten chubby in the cheeks...he was just having his mini muffins for breakfast and I caught him in the act! Sorry Danny... We want to give a special thanks to everyone for the nice Christmas we recieved. We got a new soundbar for our flatscreen, a GPS for the car, a new large set of beautiful silverware, an awesome new canopy for our boating times, a new SodaStream machine for making all the pop we could ever need (even Brent). We also got a gift card for dinner, a new blu-ray movie, some coveralls for Brent, some perfume, a Cricut cartridge, and decor for Kristi...and we still have some presents yet to open!! We were truly blessed and very appreciative to all of you for your thoughtfulness!

Trisha's family got a Wii for Christmas, and it was fun to play games and dance. Jacob and Ali had a great time dancing to "Just Dance 2" We even got some video, which I'm sure we will be saving for the perfect time to (blackmail)...umm, I mean view! We also had a great meal with Prime Rib for Christmas dinner. All in all, it was one of the funnest Christmases we have had in a long time. Many thanks to our hosts for entertaining us, and also spending time watching movies and playing games with us. We had a Great time! Hope all of you had just as nice of a Christmas!

(Well this may not be the perfect time...but I guess it's as good as any! lol :-)

Visit to Pennsylvania and Carter's Baptism!

2010-12-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

We were able to fly to Pennsylvania this weekend for Carter's special day. We brought Grandma and Grandpa Hamblin with us and arrived in Philadelphia on Thursday afternoon, Dec. 2nd. Tanessa and her girls, Brielle and Addisyn flew in from Orlando and joined us there. We rented a couple of cars and drove into Catawissa to Jaron's house. There they were all waiting for us! It was great to be there and see all the kids and get hugs from all of them. It's been a long time! We just got reaquainted that night and everyone lined up with sleeping arrangements. Jaron's heating was out and we were all wrapped up in coats and blankets trying to keep warm...it was about 55 degrees in the house!! But they got it fixed by about 11:00 that night, and the heat started pouring out! By morning we were all toasty warm again!

On Friday, Jaron wanted to take us to Ichiban, a Japanese grill for an afternoon dinner. So we all set off to Williamsport for food! It was snowing light flakes when we got there...Addi was way excited to see SNOW!

Jaron was excited to get his sushi!

The kids loved watching the chefs toss the food around and seeing the flames come up from the grill! It was nice and warm in there, and the hot food tasted so good!

All of us know that Ashton is one that speaks what he's thinking...so we all laughed when Heather told us the story of Ashton visiting Ichiban for the first time. He had asked if it was Chinese food, to which the chef told him, "No.... Japanese!" (In his VERY Japanese accent!) to which Ashton looked him straight in the face and replied, "I can't understand a WORD you're saying!" haha

Friday night, we gave Carter his Birthday/Baptism present. He was pretty proud of his new Scriptures and his carrying case, and excited to try them out!

Saturday morning everyone was on the move to get ready for the Baptism. Grandma and Jaron were busy making Texas Sheet Cakes for the refreshments...Tess, Heather, and I were trying to help all the kids get their baths and their clothes on, hair done...and Carter looked so handsome in his new suit!

The little girls were all so cute in their red Christmas dresses...Brielle did not want to be in the beautiful picture, however!

Jaron and Heather's darling family!

Our handsome Carter...ready for the baptism by his dad.

Carter Jaron Simonson...December 4th

We were so very proud of Carter that day. He not only looked handsome...he was just so sweet and pure! At the baptism, Emmy and Carter sang the special number about the Holy Ghost...they did such a great job! We were very priveledged to be there!

Saturday night, Grandpa and Grandma Hamblin wanted to pass out their Christmas presents to the little kids so they could be there when they opened them. The kids got so excited to get to open presents early!!

Lilly

Carter

Emmy

Addi

Ashton

Of course, Tess' girls got presents too, since they won't be here for Christmas either.

Little Brielle

Tanessa had presents of her own to give to Jaron's family. She had drawn his name for Christmas, so they got to open their presents early also.

Here is Jaron opening his new Temple picture from Tanessa and Jake.

Sunday...the Simonson family after church. They all look so cute!

Carter's family with the Grandparents and Great-Grandparents!

Little Brielle is growing up...she is so adorable, and we just love her to death!

Miss Lilly! She loved to have her picture taken! She is getting so big!

Emmy has grown into quite the young woman...she is such a special girl!

Last but not least...Carter. What a sweet, tender spirit he is! He has grown up so much and is so caring and kind. There wasn't a day go by that he wouldn't come up to you to give you a couple of hugs or so throughout the day. He is a great young man, and is happy to be the newest Simonson member of the church! We love you Carter!

We set out for our journey home on Monday morning with hugs all around for the kids. We drove down to Amish Country in Lancaster County. It was fun to see all the farms and green rolling hills (and yes, they were still green!) Tanessa and Brent really enjoyed seeing everything. We spent a couple of hours at the Kitchen Kettle Market, tasting the food, admiring the Amish handicrafts and such. Then it was back to Philly for some last minute Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches and then on the plane for home! It was a very fast trip, but wonderful to see everyone and Jaron's and Heather's 'new' surroundings...their three story 'mansion' house was so big and interesting! Thanks to them for their hospitality, and we had a wonderful time....congratulations Carter!! Love you all...

Happy Birthday!

2010-11-30T06:48:00.000-08:00

This month is such a special one, it's Birthday time for Carter! On the 23rd, Carter Jaron Simonson turned 8 years old, and will be baptized this coming Saturday! Carter is such a sweet and caring young man. He is very loving and a super good brother to his siblings. He has a tender heart and is quiet, yet charming. He loves to play video games and Pokeman cards...and he loves Lilly, his little sister! I am so very proud of him and what a great person he is becoming. I can't wait to be there and give him a hug and watch him be baptized! Happy Birthday, Carter! I love you!

On the 30th, our little Brielle Lynn Larsen will turn 1 year old! I am so very excited to be able to see her again also! Both Carter and Brielle live WAY too far away from Grandma, on the other side of the country! Brielle is a brilliant little girl...learning to crawl and walk so very early. When it was time for her birthday, I had a hard time believing she was only 1! She has been walking for some time now, and loves to jabber and toddle around. She loves her big sister Addi and will follow her and jabber at her for attention, and she has the most adorable little smile! She can melt your heart! I love you Brie-brie and wish you the happiest birthday!

Ouch!

2010-11-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

So I went to peel an apple for Corgin yesterday, and while I was using the knife Corgin kept saying..."Grandma, be careful!" "Grandma, don't cut yourself, ok?" "Grandma, don't cut your finger with that knife!" And so on, and so on...to which I reassured him each time that I wouldn't. Well, after it was all peeled and cored (the more tricky part) I simply set it on the granite to cut the piece in half...and it slipped off the granite and the knife proceeded to chop my thumb instead of the apple! Good job, Corgin...you jinxed me! lol

You can see the flat part where I cut a chunk out of the tip of my thumb.

MoDgE - POdGe

2010-11-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

I had a chance to get away for a few days and run up to Lewiston to see Trisha's family and Jacob over the Halloween/Grant's Birthday weekend. The drive up there was so pretty with all the leaves changing colors, and fall well underway.

It was fun to make cookies with Grant and Ali for Halloween!

Ali was a cute sourceress for Halloween...

and the man behind the Iron Man mask is our very own little Grant!

Then there was Danny..."you might be a red-neck..."

Their Ward had a nice Trunk or Treating and the kids got tons of candy. Grant was a little shy to pose with this weird stranger sitting on his Dad's truck!

Ali, or course, recognized her Dad right away...not much difference!

Then it was the big day Grant had been waiting for! Birthday time!!

We got up before the sun came up, to open presents...

We gave him a new little scooter...he got lots of fun things and was a very happy boy the whole day!

I thought this was a great picture of Trisha and the kids!

Our very own big 3 year old!

This was the sun rise just breaking before the dawn that morning! It was gorgeous!

Then it was time to come home...and with the last trip in the fall...you never know when it will start snowing and the weather will turn bad. This year, it came a little early, November 9th!

We got about 4 inches, and it snowed all day!

A look up at the ski resort...still buried in clouds and snowing!

I guess it's time for the holidays...a fun Thanksgiving, with Trisha and Danny and Jacob and the kids all coming home...Yay!

And then we will be ready to fly to Jaron's for Carter's baptism! We will get to see all the kids and Tanessa and the little girls will fly up to meet us there...So I am very blessed to have Clint living here close, to have Trisha and Jacob coming home to visit, and to be able to see the other two, Jaron and Tanessa just a week after that! My kids are all spread out now, so I am thankful to be able to see all 5 within such a short period. Look forward to LOTS of pictures!!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2010-11-05T12:25:00.000-07:00

Already the stores are putting up decorations, the radio stations are playing Christmas Music, the toy catalogs are arriving in the mail!! And to think it's still three weeks til Thanksgiving!

Anyway, this is my early plea for all my family out there...I NEED CHRISTMAS WISH LISTS!! I need to start my shopping early, because I will be going to Pennsylvania right after Thanksgiving, and I also will need to send gifts with people, or in the mail...due to lack of attendance this Christmas!! I love you all, but have no ideas what you need, want, or are wishing for unless you tell me...so PLEASE! You can respond to this blog, or email me your personal list at bksimonson@hotmail.com.

Those who don't wish, can't complain!!

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

I headed up to Lewiston/Clarkston to spend a few days with Trisha and her family for Halloween and Grant's Birthday.

Grant was excited to make some cookies and decorate them for Halloween!

He was a pretty intense cutter...

With a little help from mom to get them in the oven...

But he didn't need any help when it came to deocorating them or eating them!

Ali is a great cook, and an old pro at making cookies now!

She's pretty artistic and talented when it comes to decorating. Can you spy the "twins" she made?

It was fun to spend time with the kids and get to see them out in their costumes "trick-or-treating"!
Ali was a cute Sourceress...and of course...Grant was Iron-Man!

We're not sure who the 6'6" tall "Joe Dirt" person was in the center, but he creeped me out...alot!

I also got to go to Ali's last soccer game of the season. They will get to play in the tournament next Saturday! They only had one loss all season, and we were able to be there when Ali scored a goal for her team back in September, but she had gotten even better!

It's Birthday Time!

2010-10-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

On Oct. 29th, our little Addisyn will turn 4 years old! She is a funny and charming little girl, with quite an imagination. She loves to have tea parties, and "cook" all sorts of things for you. She loves her movies and to be in her "princess world" where she can dress up and pretend play. She is such a great big sister, and so loving of her Grandparents who live so far away. She is delightful and smiley, a gracious little sweetheart and we love her tons! Happy, Happy Birthday Addi!

Addisyn Edie Larsen - age 4

November 1st is a special day for our 6th grandchild. Our little Grant turns 3 years old! Granty-poo is chucked full of personality! He is the most smiley child...and loves to tell you all sorts of stories or sing you his creative songs. He loves to watch his favorite movies or ballgames with his dad. He is very talented at throwing balls, playing soccer, and especially batting! He is loving and sweet and such a happy little guy! We want to wish you the Happiest Birthday, Grant! We love you

soooo much!

Grant Von Evans - age 3

A Halloweeny Family Home Evening

2010-10-25T22:04:00.000-07:00

We had Clint and Katie and the little boys up for Family Home Evening. Corgin and I made some Halloween cookies. He was pretty good at cutting them out.

When they were done, it was time for the decorating...

All the cookies looked pretty good, but they tasted even better!

The Wright family and Karen Whitier came to eat and play with us also. We had our usual grilled cheese and tomato soup...along with baked apples and apple cider. Then it was time to carve the pumpkins.

Janelle and Corgin had great plans for thier Jack-o-lantern.

Katie was really concentrating on her intricate design.

Corgin with his and Janelle's masterpiece. He was trying to look just like the pumpkin.

Toni and Karen enjoying the cookies. Karen was the designer for mine and Corgin's pumpkin!

This is mine, with a little help from Karen's design, and Brent's de-gutting.

Brent was a pretty good sport to dress for the occasion!

Linkoln was just having fun watching!

Ali's Baptism

2010-10-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

We were able to travel up to Lewiston/Clarkston for Ali's baptism this last weekend. There was a lot of company there...Brent and I were there, along with Grandpa and Grandma Hamblin, Clinton and Katie and the little boys, and Jacob and Janelle. From Danny's family, his mother, and sister, Pam and 3 neices were there also. It was a large crowd, but a special event. It was great to see Ali enter the waters of Baptism and be confirmed by her Dad along with her Grandpa's and Uncles. We are so very proud of her!

Daniel, Trisha and Ali

Happy B-Day...

2010-09-22T22:18:00.000-07:00

On the 24th...my oldest daughter, Trisha will turn 30 years old! She is a wonderful wife, mother, and daughter...creative and talented...an awesome cook, a dependable and caring young woman...and just a
joy in our lives! I love you Trisha...Happy Birthday!

On the 27th it is my oldest son's Birthday, Jaron will be 32! Where has the time gone??? He is a great dad, husband, and son...very talented, with a beautiful voice...a good leader, a wonderful cook, and a very busy man!! We miss being closer to him and his family so much.
I love you Jaron...Happy Birthday!

I knew a little girl...

2010-09-17T20:26:00.000-07:00

My Ali has just grown up! She turns eight years old on Sep. 18th. I think she is such a sweetheart, always willing to help with anything
you ask of her...such a caring and good big sister...and she is just so lovable! Every time I visit, she is so quick to come give me a great big hug! She has lots of friends and is happy and fun. I'm so proud of her and all that she has accomplished so far. She is a very good reader and does very well in school, is learning to play the piano and practices alot! She will be baptized next Saturday, and I'm so happy for her! I just want to wish her the Happiest Birthday...and tell her how much I love her, and I can't wait to see her in a week and be there for her special day! Love you, Ali-pali!! And Happy 8th Birthday!

5 + 6 = BRENT!

2010-09-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

So most of my posts are what I want to say and pictures I like or want to use...and since Brent is about as different as night and day when it comes to me...I decided for his Birthday, I would post what he would like. (maybe???) He is a man of few words, so here are a FEW to describe him...

hard working, mis-understood,

adventurous,

no respect, stubborn,

quiet,

Rodger...

(and maybe his favorite) grandpa...

Happy birthday, Brent!

Thoughts of a normal "crazy" woman...

2010-09-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

We don't always have life figured out...even when we look arranged and sane. Sometimes we are going crazy trying to make the lemonade...but the lemons keep coming and coming...or do they ever really stop coming? Life is a journey, and many of us carry burdens, even hidden burdens...not upon our backs, but upon our hearts. I believe, or at least I hope that we all feel this way sometimes...a sweet acquaintance of mine made a comment about something she did each day, an insight into her life...and then immediately asked us to please not judge her, or commit her! It made me laugh...it made me think of the many times I have "lost it" and wondered when they would commit me! She has her life all together...doesn't she? She seems like the most normal of all people...and that's when it hit me. Normal is this...the hidden heartaches people carry, family problems, personal failures, loss, regret. Normal is crazy...the crazy that we feel when we mess up once again, when we can't control everything around us, when we feel all alone. Normal is grief, let-downs, stumbling blocks, sin...Normal is this world and everything around us...which is controlled by whom? Think about it...who is the one in control of this earth? Who takes control of our lives when we allow that? We don't always have life figured out...sometimes we are going crazy...but can I only hope that I'm not alone in this feeling. I imagine there are so many things out there that no one will ever know about...that every person deals with on a daily basis...or maybe even hourly, or minute by minute. I imagine that...because I have felt that...I have experienced and still experience those intimate feelings, that you cannot share with another human being. But there is someone that we can share those feelings with...someone that can carry those burdens of the heart...someone that knows us, and knows our "normal" and knows our doubts and fears, our mistakes and heartaches. I can only wish that I have not heaped upon others burdens, by my actions, my comments, my own mistakes and faults. I hope that in my insane thoughts and fears, I have not injured someone else...but that too, is only a hope. I know that I have...unknowingly I have spoken out of turn, or been too honest, or struck out in defense...and I'm sure that I offended someone, not purposely, but even that is not a good excuse. I wish I could change so many things in my life...this being one tiny one of them...so many others, that are huge...some that I can't ever take back, some that I probably haven't even done yet. We don't always have life figured out...at least I don't...

Happy Belated Birthday to Tess!

2010-09-02T06:59:00.000-07:00

Our family only
has one summer birthday...and that's my Tanessa. On July 15th, she turned 25! The only problem with that this year was that it coincided with our return from Europe and a huge gathering of chaos and comotion at our house!

So unfortunately, Tanessa's birthday got somewhat overlooked this year. I'm so sorry Tess! But I wanted everyone to know how much I love my delightful daughter, and a few things about her!

Tanessa is a go-getter...anything she sets her mind to, she can do!
She is a little slower going about things than some people...we always teased her when she was younger about how SLOW she moved...She just takes her time, I guess...and enjoys life along the way! I think her speed is getting a little faster now that she is a mom and has to chase after two little girls!

She is a great wife to Jacob...she loves to cook and makes him all kinds of specialties! She supports him in all his callings and his school, and loves to spend time with him.

She is a great mom to Addisyn and Brielle. She was such a little princess when she was growing up, and now has a couple of her own!

Tanessa has always been a loving and sweet person, one who can go crazy with her imagination, crack us up with her silly comments, and has brought much joy and happiness into our family.

She is a great daughter, grand-daughter, sister, wife, and mother...she is always thinking of her family and friends and does so much for all of us. She can cook a gourmet meal, plan a great party, decorate the coolest cakes...but she doesn't like doing dishes much!

We tease her about her potty mouth...not that it's that dirty...but she tells it like it is, and doesn't beat around the bushes much. (hmmm...sounds a little like her mother!)

She is creative...ambitious...loving...and sensitive. She loves a good party, and for that Tess...I am sorry yours was so lame this year!

It was so fun to have her and the two little girls home with us this year for her birthday! We miss her so much now that she is in FLORIDA!! Happy birthday, Tessy-poo...I love you so much...you mean the world to me, and I miss you!!

Family Boating Day...

2010-08-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome Home Jacob!! We had a family boating day as soon as we got home from Europe. It was great to have all the kids here...Jaron was able to join us by the afternoon as well...so all of the kids were together. We had a great time tubing and skiing, and just hanging out and visiting.

Always some fun banter back and forth...

Who took this picture??? Kristi ready for her tube ride...

Tess and Brent waiting in the boat.

Clint and Corgin

Jake and Linkoln...having a little breakdown...

Ooooo....

Grant and Trisha hanging out in the relaxation station...

Our watermelon eaters...Ali, Corgin, and Grant.

Danny loves a camera!! ha ha

Brent enjoying his time to sit and relax in the shade with his beverage!! One of the few times we let him off the boat!!

It was a great, fun day...and so nice to have all of our children here. Wish that we could have had the whole family together, we were missing Tess's husband, Jake, and Jaron's family, Heather and the four kids, but we had a great time and so fun to have Jacob and welcome him home!

on to BELGIUM! - Brussels

2010-07-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Brussels... and treked to our trains, trams, and hotel room, luggage in tow. It was much cooler than in Paris, and a lot cleaner! Everything seemed much less crammed together and with air to breathe! It was very beautiful with sights like this down every street...

We walked with Jacob the first day...man, could he outwalk us!! But it was fun to see where he had served and walk the streets he had walked. I was always a few feet behind...either because I couldn't catch up, or I was engrossed in everything or trying to take pictures of all the awesome buildings! It was amazing! Jacob took us down to the Grand Place...which is quite the tourist sight...lots of people, and beautiful buildings and cobblestone square...it really is a gorgeous place!

I felt like Brent...I just kept looking and looking at all the sculptures, and architecture...it was breathtaking!

Jacob showed us this place, where he said there is a superstition of some sort, that if you rub this statue, you will marry within the year...I made him rub it!! ha ha

Here is the ever popular, Manneken Pis...Brussels is famous for this and everyone knows about it and he is quite the tourist pull...which is all fine and dandy, until you see the little guy in person! I was expecting much more...he was TINY...and just stuck in a little corner by some of the souvenier shops...

This is the real size, when you can see it in comparison to people and buildings! Don't quite know what all the fuss is about...but Jacob said that they also dress him up on many holidays...so I guess he's a novelty, even if he is small!!

One of many shopping malls that connect to the Grand Place...they are so pretty!

This is Saint Michel. Jacob loves this church and wanted to show it to us...I thought it was so awesome...I even thought it outshown Notre Dame...maybe not in size, but in majestic beauty alone.

It is quite intricate, and the inside is beautiful and not dark like in the Notre Dame Cathedral.

The stained glass is so beautiful and the wood carvings...very intricate and exquisite!

Another view point of the outside - this is along the side...it's so amazing!

This is Le Palais de Justice...their government building.

We got to visit the Atomium...It was quite the modern sculpted piece in it's time...built back in the 50's for a World's Fair in Brussels....it is still amazing and an awesome sight to see!

There are cool passages between the spheres with escalators and stairs...

We rode an elevator up to the top and this is some of the view overlooking Brussels.

Very cool indeed!

This is all for right now, but this isn't all of my Brussels pictures...more are on Jacob's camera...so stay tuned for more...I will get them up shortly!

London, Paris, and Jacob!

2010-07-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

On the morning of the 4th of July, Brent and I flew to London, England to start our journey. Our plan was to have a couple of days in London, and then proceed to Paris, where we could pick up Elder Simonson at the France Paris Mission Home on July 8th. We had a great time seeing all the beautiful sites in London. This is Brent in front of Buckingham Palace...

The Palace is still guarded by the Queen's Guards, even though they are backed up "heavily" by men with really big guns walking around!

Me by the Memorial that sits directly in front of the Palace...in the center of the square.

Just the square and grounds that are around Buckingham Palace.

Then we walked a little way down to some government buildings and came upon the Queen's Royal Guards and Band practicing in the square.

When they were finished, they went marching down the street playing and heading toward the Palace, for the changing of the guards.

This is Westminster Abbey...the side that faces the Palace.

This is the front of Westminster Abbey...it is a huge building...very beautiful!

Then as we walked on by the Abbey...We crossed the street and around the corner was the most gorgeous and spectacular building!! It was the English Parliment building...it took up an entire block and the detail was just breathtaking!

Here is Big Ben that stands just on the end of the magnificent Parliment Building.

Te detail is just as impressive.

Trafalgar Square...

We also visited the London Bridge...

...but since the old one 'fell down' and moved to Lake Havasu, Arizona...

the new one is a little less impressive!

This one was a little more spectacular!

Then it was time to go to the Train Station for our train trip through the English Channel Tunnel and on to Paris!

So Farewell to London...on to Paris...

The train ride was amazing...the French countryside was awesome...and before we knew it, we were arriving in the (less than clean, overly crowded) Paris!

Paris had some amazing sites...of which I will post a few, but my favorite site of all, was the one of my son's face!! Two years, and finally a hug...it made the less desirable Paris my favorite place on the whole earth!

We were able to go the Mission Home in Paris and meet our son, Elder Simonson, and officially pick him up from his mission. This is Pres. and Sis. Staheli with Elder Simonson.

It was great to meet with them and hear all the good things they had to say about Jake. He seemed very happy and in good spirits...feeling like he had done all that he could and given his best for 2 years, he was ready to leave, no regrets...and we were so excited to get to spend time with him again!

Our first stop was the Arc de Triomphe in the heart of Paris...

So awesome...so BIG! It was just beautiful, and the view from the top was very amazing!

And of course...the Eiffel Tower, once again...very BIG!!

We went to the top that night...it meant very long lines, and the temperature was sweltering...but the view was wonderful, and the company even better. We stood in line with the Schmutz family, who also picked up their son, Andrew, from the mission at the same time. They are a very delightful and fun family...it was great to get to know them and spend time with them!

Then on to the Louvre Museum...it was very interesting and HOT!

Everyone took advantage of the fountains!

Once again...much larger than I ever could have imagined!! Could it be that everything in Paris is larger than imagination? Except for the Mona Lisa...

This is the Seine River in Paris...there were locks all along the fence...all of them with engravings or writings of love...it was interesting.

Then a visit to the Church in Paris...one of the most expensive properties owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints...it is right downtown Paris and dates back hundreds of years. It has a courtyard in the middle, where cars were parked...and either residents or businesses above the church rooms on the first floor.

Also a visit to the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, which was very intricate and beautiful on the outside...very dark on the inside!

Just a few of the other sites we saw in Paris...buildings by famous architects...

...beautiful fountains and statues...

Paris was just amazing...au revoir!

My LAWN!!

2010-06-09T18:18:00.000-07:00

I know that probably no one cares about lawns the way I do...or so Brent seems to think...but I have an obsession with lush, thick, green lawns that are cut pretty long, and have the prettiest lawnmower swaths. Yes, I am totally jealous of Pres. Troy's lawn, and also the Brower's! So I have bugged and bugged Brent to fertilize, to spray, etc. etc. etc. for the last 4 years...and finally, about 2 weeks ago, I took matters into my own hands and headed up to Blackfoot to the Co-op to get me some of that "magic fertilizer"!
Well...my lawn finally looks just lucious!! I mowed it on Saturday, and again today...it had already grown a good 3". Anyway, since no one is here to sink their toes deep into it or to see it (Clint won't even drive up...) I thought I would post some pictures! I'm sure pictures don't do it justice, but here you go anyway!!

These last few are of my flower beds...they are looking pretty good from last year's planting.

We only had a few plants die that had to be replaced.

And yes, that's clover you see in the last picture. Brent sprayed last night, but it hasn't killed it yet...just made it curl a little which makes it stand out in pictures...but soon it will be DEAD! Yay! I love my lawns! I hope they will stay looking this good for the rest of the summer, but of course we have had tons of rain and cool weather too, so they probably won't! Thanks for bearing with me...I know...I'm strange!

Random Stuff...

2010-06-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

Over Memorial Day Weekend, we took a quick trip up to Clarkston, to deliver countertops to Trisha and Danny's house. It was fun to see the kids and the countertops Brent made turned out pretty sweet!

And Grandpa's ipad could certainly draw a crowd! It was a hit...

When we got back...it was time to move Clint and Katie back to their house :( But not until another bowl of ice cream...which seemed to be an interesting topic for Corgin...

Once Grandpa's was gone...he moved over to help his mom finish hers. He comes with his own spoon!

We also attended the blessing of little Linkoln yesterday...it was awesome! Sorry, I forgot to take my camera...but thanks to Grandma, here's a couple of pictures. And might I just add here that we have totally loved having their company for the past 6 months! They will be greatly missed!

Also...just one more month until Jacob is home!! He is on his last transfer as Elder "Von" Simonson!! haha...we look forward to his return. Release is on July 8th, but we will be picking him up, so we won't fly into Salt Lake until the evening of the 14th...his report will be Sunday, the 18th of July! Yay!

Just a couple of pictures that Grandma Hamblin had on her camera of our trip to Carribean/Florida. This is the little outfit we bought for Addi on our cruise...

and a couple of pictures at our hotel with the little girls...

This one cracked me up! Quite the passionate kiss there Addi....lol!

One last thing...I hear there's a recent opening on the Mariner's team...is there room for another pitcher??

Grant's available for the job! hee hee hee...awesome, I KNOW!!

Happy Birthday Clinton!

2010-05-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my son, Clinton's Birthday...he will be 28 years old! Wow...he was born on our 5th anniversary in Provo, UT. My only Utard! (I was also born in Provo, UT!) He always jokes about being the middle child and being neglected all these years...but we are making up for that now!! He is our only child that lives close now, and we have enjoyed having him and his family around so much!

Clint is a happy, bouncy, and very funny guy. We try not to laugh at his jokes, or fall for his silly practical jokes, or buy into his malarchy...but he has such a fun personality, it's hard not to like the guy!! He is a great son...always obedient and honest to a T...and has always brought joy and goodness into our lives.

He is a great husband to Katie...and they are so cute together. They enjoy the same things, can laugh at the same things, and seem to know just how to handle one another.

Clint is a great father...takes such good care of Corgin and Linkoln, and isn't afraid to pitch in and bathe, feed, change, wrestle...whatever, he just enjoys being a dad and loving his boys.

He's always loved to fish and just recently took up a little hunting, of which he was pretty pumped about!

And if you know Clint...he is probably reading this and saying..."What the heck?" He cracks me up with his many faces, his jolly attitude, his weird sense of humor...etc. But most of all, I appreciate his helpfulness, his love and support, his sense of responsibility, and the fine man he has become! I love you so much Clinty-poo...and wish you the Happiest of Birthdays!!

Can it really be Spring??!!

2010-05-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

When I went for a walk on Friday...the actual first day that it has been nice enough to go out and walk...it was just beautiful to see the green coming out, and the blue sky...in contrast to the snow we still have lingering on the mountains. I just had to snap a few pictures.

Yes, the ski area still has quite a bit of snow...considering less than two weeks ago, they were still skiing up there...it is going quite quickly now with the warmer temperatures.

A lot of the trees are just budding out, but the spring green colors are starting to emerge! Yay!

I LOVE the SUNSHINE...I LOVE SPRING!!

The newest little addition to the Simonson Family

2010-05-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

Linkoln is growing each day...and getting more alert and cute!

Corgin and Linkoln in their matching jammies!

Corgin loves his new little brother.

The new and improved Simonson family...Katie, Clint,

Linkoln, and Corgin

Grandpa enjoying the new baby...

Linkoln is the proud model for Grandpa's newest toy...the ipad!

a few days in Florida...

2010-05-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Besides our trip to Epcot/Disneyworld, and the graduation pictures that I already posted...we had a couple of days to just spend with Tanessa and Jake and do a few little things. One day we drove out to Daytona Beach. I was excited to go to Daytona...mostly because of all the things you hear about the Daytona Speedway...who knew it was right on a BEACH!!

Obviously a lot of people...

We had a good time sitting out in the sun, it was a cooler day, so the water was still a little nippy, but we caught some rays...

Addi chased a few seagulls...

made a few sandcastles...

...and we had a little lunch. It was a fun few hours on the beach!

Then as we were heading home. Jake took us into the parking lot of the speedway. Nothing much was going on there, but we could hear some cars doing some practice runs...that was cool.

Here's Brent in front of the Stadium with our rental car.

It was neat to see where the Daytona 500 is run, and many Nascar events.

On our way home, we saw this little building...All covered and groomed with ivy...I thought it was interesting! and cool!

We enjoyed being with our little granddaughters, and being there for Jake's special day. We have missed Addi so much, and really enjoyed playing with her and loving and hugging her. She is such a sweetie!

And little Brielle...we really just got to know her. She has the cutest smile and giggle, and we so loved holding her and loving on her. She won our hearts over!

Even wrapped for sleep with a binkie in her mouth...she can still crack a smile!!

We will miss our little girls...so hoped that they would get a job closer to home and move back so we could see them more...but I don't think that is going to happen now.

As of today, we have been informed that Jake has been offered a good job, staying right there in Florida, and it looks like they will be staying...SO SAD! But congratulations to them, and best of luck in your plans and adventures. We miss the babies...we miss you...thanks for being such good hosts and we had a great time! Hope to be able to visit again really soon!

Happy Birthday Danny!

2010-05-08T08:09:00.000-07:00

Today is the birthday of my son in law Daniel. He was the very first of the in laws to join our family and we have never quite been the same! We have had so many laughs and he has brought lots of excitement into our family! He is always quick witted, has a sunny outlook on life and continues to make me smile, except when he succeeds in making me cry!

He has quite a love for life, for his wife Trisha, his kids

Alissa and Grant, his truck, and his Mariners.

He is fun and funny, he is a great dad and a great eye doctor...he approaches life with gusto, for which I am always envious...his good attitude and positivity.

And as for today...may you always keep smiling...may you always get the things you want out of life, and may you always remember those who love you the most! Happy Birthday...I love you!

Jake's Graduation!

2010-05-07T07:21:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 1st...we attended the graduation of our
son-in-law, Jake Larsen, at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. Jake has been attending there for the past two years and just completed his MBA. We are so very proud of him and his accomplishments!

Jake also graduated in the top of his class and was inducted

into Beta Gamma Sigma with honors.

The cute little Larsen family...Jake, Tanessa, Brielle, and Addisyn

Jake and his parents, Terry and Rick Larsen

All of us after the graduation. Lots of good company!

The beautiful Larsen Family

Congratulations Jake and Tessy...we love you

and wish you the best of luck in the future!

Disneyworld/Epcot Center...

2010-05-06T08:22:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, we went back to Disneyworld with Tess and Jake to explore Epcot Center. We had visited before, but didn't take any time to go around to all the world exhibits. It was a beautiful day, only about 78 degrees and it was so comfortable and nice!

They were having a week of botanical floral displays...so all over the park were beautiful floral arrangements and these awesome characters all made out of flowers and shrubs.

Addi with Goofy, Daisey and Donald Duck

Jake, Tanessa and Addi with Mickey and Minnie

Addi at the Princess and the Frog Garden

First we went on a few rides...which HAD to include one of our favorites...and Addi's especially...the Nemo ride!

Then we visited all the countries.. first stop Mexico!

And Norway...Then on to China...

Addi and I are in there somewhere...(Brent took the picture!)

Some more cool floral things floating in the waters!

Addi got to meet Mulan..

Then on to Germany to this quaint little village where Brent and Jake got some amazing Bratworste and Sauerkraut.

And this little diamond studded castle, worth a mere $37,500!

We visited, Marraco...

France...where we ate the most amazing French Pastries EVER!

United States of America!

Japan...

Then on to England, where Jake and I ate some scrumptious fish and chips!

A last little stop at Canada to see the Waterfalls...

and that was about it...our Epcot Adventure...

the only thing left to do was to get some Ears for the kiddies!!

Thanks so much Tess and especially Jake...that made it all possible on a tight budget...we had a GREAT time! Couldn't have been a more perfect visit!

Carribean Cruise...

2010-05-04T09:57:00.000-07:00

We arrived in San Jaun, Puerto Rico on Sunday, the 18th of April. It was a beautiful, gorgeous day, the weather was very warm and humid, the skies were deep blue and clear...the ship was awesome! We sailed on the Carnival Victory, seven glorious days and nights!!

Our first stop was on Monday...St. Thomas. We took a taxi into town to do a little shopping. We HAD to visit the Linen shop there. I have waited over 10 years to go back. They still had my white linen/lace slippers that I wear to the temple! I wanted to get a new pair...mission accomplished!!

We took a tour around the Island...guided by a funny little black man who referred to himself as SpiderMan! It was great to sit in the open air little bus, and feel the breeze and see and smell all the great things that were there.

The first stop was a private beach that he called Lover's Bay/Beach, because of the heart shaped landscape. Several celebrities and Presidents have stayed here, because of it's secluded place.

Overlooking St. Thomas into the bay where we docked.

Our next stop, Tuesday...Dominica! Our most very favorite place...it is what I consider the Garden of Eden must have looked like. It is plush and green, and beautiful flowers and banana trees growing alongside the roads.

It has so much rainfall each year, with 365 rivers and so many waterfalls...it keeps it so beautiful!

We were able to shop the little roadside shops and find some good vanilla and flavorings, and some really cute necklaces and stuff!

Our next stop on Wednesday was Barbados! My mom and dad were very excited to go back once again and see their beloved home of their first Mission. We talked them into going with us to the Rum factory to see how their famous rum was produced. They offer lots of free samples at the end...but we had to pass on those!

My dad told us of a place called Harrison's Caves that sounded really interesting, so we went up there to tour the caves.

They take you on a little shuttle train down into the caverns...really, really cool! This is us waiting for our tour and shuttle, under these really cool vine trees!

I thought this one kinda looked like a nativity scene...with Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus.

Our next visit was on Thursday, to St. Lucia. Mom and Dad had already seen the Island and just wanted to stay in town by the boat and do some shopping, so Brent and I went off on an all day tour of the Island and then they dropped us off at an awesome beach for swimming. This is the city center park.

It was one of the cleanest, prettiest Islands. People really took great pride in their homes and surroundings. It looked pretty prosperous, and beautiful!

On Friday we visited St. Kitts. We took a short tour that day (we were all getting pretty worn out!) and we had our driver take us up to the big Fort there. This was an old Sugar Cane Mill that we saw along the way.

The Fort was so green and pretty, with views (of course) of the entire Island on every side and a look over the ocean and the Carribean both. It was very interesting...and HOT!!

Beautiful view towards the Carribean Sea. I loved the green everywhere!

Saturday, Brent and I booked a trip to go on the Rhino Riders in St. Martin. They brought us from the ship across the Island over to the bay and we took these little watercrafts (half jet ski/half rubber raft) through rows of big yachts and sailboats...through the French bridge, and out to the ocean!

Once we were out in the ocean...we traveled clear up the coast to a place called Happy Beach where we soon found out why it's so happy! Apparently no one in this little bay or on the beach care to wear clothing! We spent about an hour there snorkeling...and watching the 'wild life'! LOL

Mr. Happy himself!! You know me...I had to take a picture! But I didn't take any pictures of the people on the beach. They were a little too up close and personal for that!!

This was the view of our ship and the Carribean on our bus ride back in St. Martin. It had some great shopping, and was a really cool Island!

A few pictures on the ship. This was the main corridor where the stairs and elevators were. You could see up or down about 8 floors....it was really pretty!

This is where we ate every day, in the buffet/dining area. Plenty of soft serve ice cream/frozen yogurt to keep mom and Brent happy!!

The grown up pool on the back of the ship!

Our waiter each night, Sheward from the Phillipines took very good care of us...and helped us all gain about 10 lbs. for the week!!

At the main big pool, there was a huge screen, where we watched a few movies at night and had lots of entertainment throughout the day. Laying on the beach chairs, watching "The Proposal" on the big screen under the stars was pretty fun!

We never quite took advantage of the waterslides or mini golf...but it was fun to watch others!

This is the classic shot of Brent! Waiting...ever waiting...doesn't he look Happy?! Maybe he is just wearing too many clothes...

We returned to San Juan on Sunday the 25th, and caught one of the first flights out of there to Orlando to spend the week with Tanessa's family and attend Jake's graduation. We had a marvelous time cruising...and it was fun to have mom and dad along with us!

New arrival in our Family!

2010-05-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

On April 27th, Clinton and Katie had a new baby boy, Linkoln Paul Simonson. He was 6 lbs. 5 oz. and he is a real cutie pie! Grandchild #10 for us...5 girls, 5 boys, all just adorable!

We were away on vacation when this little guy came...in Florida visiting Tanessa and Jake for Jake's graduation. So we didn't get to see Link until he was 5 days old! It was fun to get back home and get to hold the new baby and see Corgin again... he is a pretty proud big brother!

We were glad that we got to visit these two beautiful girls! We really miss them and don't get to see them very often, so it was fun to spend a week with them and get reacquainted with little Brielle. Addi and Brielle were both so fun and they are such happy little girls.

That smile of Brielle's is infectious!! We had a very hard time leaving her behind to come home!

Grandparenting is the best!

Happy, Happy Birthday, Mother dear!

2010-04-11T17:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Mother, Donna Hamblin, today! What can I say, my mom is great! She can run circles around me...always busy, always ambitious...she never slows down! She can make a mean macaroni salad in a few minutes flat...whip up about a dozen or more homemade pies every holiday... continues to find some project or job, no matter what. Sometimes she makes me tired when I watch her hustling around. My mom once told me that as a punishment when she was a child...she was made to sit and watch while everyone else worked, and she wasn't allowed to, and that it was the worst! ( I could only hope for such a punishment! lol!)

She met my Dad when he went off to BYU to school, and he was living with my mom's grandparents...they fell in love, she waited for him while he served a mission, and they were married just shortly after he returned. They are still sweethearts today! They have served 4 missions together, and countless hours in the temple, etc. They enjoy traveling, and many other things together.

My mom is and has always been the best example to me. She tried tirelessly to teach me what I needed to know, although I wasn't a very good student. She makes her bed everyday...I do not...she washes the dishes immediately following a meal...I do not always...she can sew, can, cook, clean, etc. etc...which I do now also, I just don't always choose to do it or with the vigor that she does it. I know she has a testimony...I have heard it, I believe it...She is charitable, loving, dependable, a little stubborn, and very much in control!

She is a living legacy, of which my children have learned...and my grandchildren are learning from...so even if I wasn't a very good 'student'...she continues to teach us all...and maybe someday I will grow up and be more like her! Happy Birthday Mom.....I love you!

PenNsyLvAniA!

2010-04-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

I was able to fly out to Pennsylvania to visit Jaron and Heather and the kids over the Easter Break. What fun it was to see the kids again, I have missed them! I was able to do some fun things, got to see where Heather is attending school, where Ashton and Lilly go to preschool everyday, where Jaron works now at Panera Bread (yummy food, by the way...) and where Emmy and Carter go to school. It was fun to walk around Catawissa and enjoy the beautiful spring weather and warm sunshine and finally see where this little Simonson family lives! I brought some little Easter dresses for the girls...they looked so cute in them. Lilly has grown into a little girl since I saw her last, and Emmy is such a lovey young lady...

On the Saturday before Easter, the Easter Bunny brought the kids some wonderful surprises!

Emmaline

Carter

Ashton

and Lilly

Gramma Kristi got them all new PJ's for Easter, since Ashton had gone to bed in tears the night before because "he didn't have any jamas!" to put on to come downstairs and cuddle with Grandma.

Then I was able to go out with Jaron and Carter golfing. The weather was awesome, so nice and warm and GREEN! It was fun to ride in the cart and watch them golf. (I sooooo wish I could golf!!)

After that, it was time for a good old fashioned Easter Egg Hunt! The American Legion had hardboiled and colored a gazillion eggs, and had scattered them all over the lawns for the kids to pick up. We didn't really understand that they had numbers on them, in which they would turn in for prizes at the end...that would have been a good thing to know...but the kids had fun anyway, and still ended up with a few prizes!

After a nice couple of days of watching Conference and visiting, which also included a trip to Rita's for some outstanding Italian Ice and Frozen Custard, a "High School Musical" marathon, and some delicious egg salad sandwiches...it was time for a little trip down to Lancaster Co. to visit Amish-land!

On the way to take Grandma to the airport...we decided to visit Intercourse, PA and go to some quaint Amish shops and villages and eat some good Amish food...we had planned to visit Hershey also, but the time got away from us on a fun buggy ride around the countryside...so I guess that will have to wait for another visit! It was a lot of fun, and great to see the kids! Thanks, Jaron and Heather for the FUN time!