Had a Thought

I am in Vernal right now away from my family and I hate it. I forgot to tell Michelle this on the phone but after we talked on Tuesday, I sort of went into a daze and I could have sworn that I felt Julia crawling on my lap, up to my neck, and embrace me with her little but tight arms! I snapped out of it suddenly and found myself around Jared's family in their living room propped on their rocking chair; the hint of the very real event still lingering on my soul. I love my family!
That was not the thought though... this is:
After administering to Ashley (Jared's youngest daughter) I realized that for every sealing there is an anointing. I may be behind all of you here but it accured to me that we are washed and anointed in the temple.
Many more implications come to light and many more questions show me how much in the dark I actually am... it is so fun!

Reunion

I am so excited! I hope everyone else is too. (Yes, this includes you Bryce...) Just an update on cost and such. There will be no charge for anyone for food, unless you choose to buy food I don't choose to have readily available (DAD). :) I think the paper product charge will be no more than $10 per family. This leaves you the cost of water park, babysitting, and adult dinner . We would like to have dinner at Paisanos in Richmond. It is more expensive, but so well worth it. The portions are large, so meals could be shared. Here is their website so you can let me know. paisanosonbroadway.com. We are making the reservation now or we won't get one. If you think this won't work, let me know and we can go somewhere else. If you have any questions about cost, let me know. I would also love to know when people are coming and who needs rides from the airport. See you soon.

Girl's Camp

Last time I went to girl's camp, I was sure it would be my last; so, I'll not say this should be my last time at girl's camp, but I can say, I was definitely one of the oldest sisters there--at least in the top 5. But as usual, it was a great experience, despite a few communication issues with mothers of our girls, and the fact that the toilets flushed only every 15 minutes, and not at all if the showers were being used (sometimes the showers would just stop working halfway through the shower--a water pressure issue.)

I realized, again, that girl's camp is not about teaching skills, although that keeps the girls busy, it's all about testimonies and unity, etc. James, you will be happy to know that nearly every young woman that bore her testimony actually bore her testimony of the Savior, of the Book of Mormon, of the modern prophets. We had very few "friend-a-monies".

I played a double role in camp this year--young women's president of the Front Royal Ward and Stake Camp Committee. It kept me busier than I had imagined, but it was great to be on the Stake Committee, because I got to know so many more people than I would have otherwise.

All in all, I would have to say it was a tremendous learning and growing opportunity for me. I LOVED IT! Kind of sad to be back in the real world with cell phones and tv's and worries. But, it was nice to be back with Dad. Girl's camp is the one week ever that we do not communicate, even when he is halfway around the world, we talk to each other. Maybe next year, if there is a next year, I can talk him into taking the whole week off and spending it there with me?????

By the way, Marquie was stellar YCL, but that's a post for her.

Cornmeal

We had ants.

Everywhere.

Summer does that, you know.

I remember Bryce telling me that cornmeal sprinkled around ant collections would get rid of them. They're not repelled by it, but apparently they carry it back to their food store, eat it, and then they can't digest it and they die. Sounds horrible, but very effective. I know it worked in my kitchen! Thanks, Bryce!

And there was light...

I finally got the flood lights installed on the front of our house!

That means everyone (Justin and Jodi) can see their way to their car. When everyone has the chance, come to our house and see them. They are awesome!

We Went a Fishin'

I couldn't sleep anymore so I got up and cleaned the house, most of it left from mom and Marquie packing for camp and I have not minded helping with the pick up. Then I decided to catch up on family stuff. I had the blog already hours ago but had problems posting so just started over.

OK, the Photo PHriday picture was taken in August of 1974. Dad had a meeting in Portland, OR and made arrangements for us to go salmon fishing at the mouth of the Columbia River. Interpreted to mean Pacific Ocean! It was a fun trip and the last "family vacation" I had with my parents before my mission and our marriage.

We left Portland in the evening and got what I think was supposed to be a motel somewhere just to get up again at 02:00 to catch the boat out. The boat was about 30 feet long and really "rode" the waves. Dad got sick but I survived without loosing breakfast or lunch. We caught several fish, mostly salmon, but to my knowledge, this in one of the only pictures we took of the trip. And even then, it was not taken until we got home.

As for the watch and shirt. One of my favorite shirts and yes, that is how I wore my watch. Something to do with irrigation and working on machinery. Love you all and the ladies come home tomorrow. YEA!!!

Summer for me is a fffffwwwwhhhhpppp... and it's gone.

For all of you to know, I took days off for the reunion. Even though I think it is rediculous to have reunions every six months.

I have applied to a billion jobs (in Michelle language, that's ten jobs that took twenty hours to apply for) and even a few in the church headquarters, and on your end of the world.

-Happy summer days-

P.S. James, I know you hate what I wrote up there but the repetitive letters where a must for the wanamakapia effect (whatever it's called).

A Very Big House!

I had forgotten just how lonely it is without Mom and Marquie around. They left Monday morning for girls camp and I have been shuffling through the house alone the last two evenings. I do not like it! To make matters even more interesting, our Dish receiver went out last week and the replacement has not arrived. I have been enjoying the time reading. Well, Joint calls with the VP today, in Atlanta tomorrow, Friday evening at girls camp. I should make it through the week.

Picture you will recognize as the back yard of my youth. Well, you may not recognize as many things changes. The concrete where the dog houses are was taken out in the late 1960's as was the apricot tree. I do believe some of you climbed the birch tree showing on the right. Just thought it would be fun to share. Love you all.

A summer day

I think yesterday was our first real summer day. We started off with a little garden club for the girls at the library while the boys played at the park. Then, the boys had a friend over for lunch and swimming. This swimming continued for the girls until about 3:00 while the boys stayed out until 4:00. All of them begged me to go to bed when they came in, but I insisted they eat first. Collin stopped halfway through dinner and just swayed back and forth saying "sleep" over and over again. All of them were in bed by 6:30. I love summer days! Joe is at high adventure all week, so it is nice to have the kids worn out! What is summer like for all of you?

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO YOU ALL!

Justin's Crazy Day

The end of this term is here and that makes for a few hectic days for Justin.  Last night, he finally got into bed at about 3:30am (I think, I was asleep)!  At the time I couldn't tell if he was going to sleep or getting up already.  He skipped the first part of work, but still had to wake up at 7:30am to shower and get ready.  Now, he's at work, and will soon go to school.  He still needs to get his portfolio printed, turned in, and present the research he's been working on all term.  All this on about 4 hours of sleep!  If you can spare a simple prayer for him, we would both appreciate it.

The Great Wall of Fire(place)

So we turned this historic scar of what used to be the "Trading Post" into 1 billion times better of a wall... and we are still not done.

It was great to have James around. He proved that musicians can hammer a nail or two! Justin showed up in time to hang drywall and Jodi was definitely the most fashionably dressed for this momentous occasion.

Liz kept us on task and cut drywall (as the picture will prove).

Michelle wants me to let everyone know that she did something. Okay, once again, Michelle is the reason this even started in the first place.

Good-times!

P.S. - The dress socks belong to Justin's wardrobe choice. We got a good laugh over it.

Hi everyone...it really is the Packards. You'll take what you can get...I know it's true. We have been having so much fun with the James and Liz family. They helped us build an awesome wall around our fireplace. If you want to see pictures check out James and Lizs blog. Justin and Jodi also helped. Everyday is a party until James and Liz leave. I'm not looking forward to their departure. We have some super cute photos of Julia...yeah they're cute. She started crawling and it's so fun. It kind of went in phases. When she started she would only crawl on grass but she quickly discovered the freedom and swiftness of crawling and is all over the place. Ella has big news, she lost her first tooth and it's so exciting. The Tooth Fairy came last night...so fun! Bryce is feeling totally lost with life. I hear it is the new graduate symptom. He is looking in the business realm for a new career and he is looking everywhere so if you know of anything he may be qualified give a holler. Daniel is just fun. He is so sweet but so tuff...tuff as in strong. I am just here, it's what I do. I was called as the compassionate service leader and am still the primary pianist. I was finally released as the Enrichment leader today and am quite relieved. It is however kind of bitter sweet. I loved it, but it was really hard to do all three callings. The last activity turned out great. We had an Interior Designer come and then I came home and re-decorated with the help of James of course. Well, you can thank James and Liz for this post. We love you!! Talk to you soon...like next month at the family reunion. Bye!

Home again

Mom is right, there should be so much to tell. Loved our vacation. Joe said it is the one of the best vacations he has ever had. I even took time to be lazy. We never even made bread... gasp! Our lives have been an absolute roller coaster since coming home, but whose isn't? Good news, bad, news... the pattern just continues. If you want real details, you must call. I will tell you Joe is going ahead with his software. They are planning to launch mid-July. Yeah! He has been in contact with the owners of Chicago Brick Oven and incredible things are happening. These things include a mention of the software from Rockefeller Center in New York! You have to call for that one. I know, I am so mean. All in all, crazy as usual. We are blessed. Hey, I made freezer jam from our own strawberries today. It is so yummy. I am making peach strawberry jam shortly. Strawberries ours, but not the peaches. Can't have everything. Love you all. Want to hear from you!

Photo Phriday!

A couple of pictures from our memorable Petersen visit and trip to Washington, D.C. This is as close as we got to the Washington Monument. The kids were just too tired, after the Natural History Museum, to trek to the monuments. (Didn't hurt my feelings!) Many of you have been on vacation the last couple of weeks. There has got to be something noteworthy you all can blog today! Let's hear and see.....

All-State!

WOOT! That's right. I found them! oh, and our director talked a looot. fair warning. :)

The Roller Coaster

Marquie has already told you of the efforts she and Joe put in to get 236 out of 200 on her Physics project, but she didn't post the pictures so here they are.

How?

How did I end ip the only person here watching the 5 kids? I think every child in the photo engaged me at one point or another to ask me to lost then up of move then around. Yeah, as a general rule I don't ever ever EVER touch other peoples children. Safer that way.


-- Post From My iPhone

Ethan

just occurred:

Ethan is going to the bathroom, and Grandma is getting out stuff to make him a sandwich when she sees leftover Mac and Cheese in the fridge.

Grandma: Would you rather mac 'n' cheese than a sandwich?
Ethan: What?
Grandma: Would you rather mac 'n' cheese than a sandwich?
Ethan: Don't Worry!!! I Flushed!!!

Ethan comes out of the bathroom

Heather: Do you want a sandwich or mac 'n' cheese?
Ethan: A sandwich. Mac and Cheese isn't appropriate [for Sunday].

Ethan has just clarified--Mac and Cheese isn't appropriate at NIGHT. apparently it's only lunch.

Boxing

I just had to blog these pictures because, well, they rock!  James had tons of fun and we had tons of fun watching him!  I especially love the pink gloves!

foto friday

Um, well, dad hid the pictures of Wizard of Oz, and I know you already saw some. whatever. I don't really have anything new. You saw my hair. soooo, here is another picture of my hair, and a pretty flower. :)oh!! I thought of something else. I apparently have a "fan club" at school. (name courtesy of Leah). And it's full of guys. so yeah. if you want stories or updates on that, you can call. loooove you!
OH!!! ANNND. i'll take a picture of my amazing roller coaster that Joe basically put together and I got a 236/200 on. ANNND. I have a 95 in Physics! 95/100 on my final! (atleast that's what it says online!)
5 more days of schooool! +1 and I'll be a Senior...

Photo Friday

Lonely recipe

My cake recipe is so lonely on our recipe site.  Has anyone made anything fun?  I know Michelle has some pancake action she's going to share as soon as I force her to do it, but nothing else is culinarily happening for us, is it?  Let's share!

I thought these were funny

Recipes

I created a new blog for us to share recipes.  I actually created my own you can see here, but I decided the family needed a good recipe share forum as well.  You might disagree, but I'm not really concerned about that right now.  So, view it here, and accept the invite to be an author.  Let's see those recipes!

I even thought about using them to compile a yearly cookbook, but again, we'll see.  

for real

yep, this is my real hair this time!!! :D I really really did it!!! and I donated it to locks of love! i'm so proud. I didn't cry, and Heather didn't have to hold myhand! although, it was REALLLLY close! :D

Moving Party!

We were here at just the right time methinks, and tonight we jumped in for a great Workman family evening.  We spent a play day at IKEA and stopped at Cabela's to admire the wildlife, then headed to Grandma Workman's to help clean and move stuff in preparation for their move out.  It's good we went—Bryce and I hauled most of the furniture, Liz and Michelle cleaned bathrooms, and Joshua only made Jessie cry once (or twice . . .)  Finally Grandma declared the evening's work done, and magically, almost the entire clan arrived for home-roasted Roast Beef Sandwiches and magic salads—especially Michelle's magic salad, which you'll all have to ask her about . . .

After dinner we slowly, and seemingly randomly, sauntered one by one over to the flower beds where we puled weeds and turned up earth until half the family was on hands and knees beautifying Grandma's already beautiful beds.  We kept at it until they were done, despite the increasing tempo of the rain on our heads.  What an amazing family.

So, here are some photos from our evening.  We missed you all so much, but we were rather impressed that three of our five siblings and their families were present; Grandpa even commented on it.  We represented you well, Mom, and I hope we were extra helpful.

She Rocked the House

OK, so I am the dad and I will accept the notion that I am partial and prejudiced. That said, so you will understand that what I say is vouched for, I will take my lead from the patrons to the play who said to me such things as: "What a blessing that your daughter moved to our school", "Your daughter is an answer to my prayers", "There was never a question on who would be playing the role of Dorothy", "What an incredible voice", "I could not believe what I heard when she opened her mouth", "She was front and center the whole play and you could feel the part through her. When she was nervous, I got nervous, when she was strong I felt it", "The cast really rallied around her leadership, not just the theatrical but her personal and spiritual leadership as well". OK, you get the message that it is not just a prejudiced dad who is pre-disposed to bragging on his children (OK so I am and I will heartilly admit it), it is that she really did rock the house! She knew not only her lines but those of her fellow cast members and when they missed a line, particularly cue lines, she had it right there and gave the line just as though it were hers and the show went on!

The director asked Marquie to run the last cast meeting as not only the lead and the leader on stage but as noted above, as the leader of the cast. She made it through without the flood gates crumbling away and she did an outstanding job. Thank you Marquie for sharing your talents so well and allowing me to so closely share this experience with you.