A Day in the Life

Remodel Completed!!!

2012-02-17T14:51:00.001-07:00

It took a little longer than planned, but it was well worth the wait~

Tape and texture…done

Hardwood added to match

Walls & ceiling painted…cabinets delivered

Cabinet installation started

Floor sanded and refinished…almost a perfect match

The completed room!!! Oh how I love all of the storage and no more computer wires, it is all in the cabinets!

Thanks to “my guy” and his “guys”!

REMODEL

2012-01-25T21:11:00.001-07:00

So we are not happy unless something is torn apart…right?

For quiet awhile I have wanted to change our office. It had a desk built into a closet with some shelves that Kevin had installed. It was okay, but I knew it could be better. If you notice in the picture the walls on each side of the desk…dead space. Almost 5 feet of dead, wasted space!

So I have “a guy” that is pretty amazing. I tell him kind of what I want, and he draws up a plan and its is exactly what I want!

On Monday he came to start “the plan”. First order of business…taking down those useless wall.

YEA!!! No more wasted space!

Tuesday…take down the rest of the sheet rock. “My guy” also knows “a guy”…an electrician…He was my friend on Tuesday. When the sheetrock came down, there was some crazy electrical stuff behind there! He took care of that, moved electrical boxes added more boxes and put in lights in my ceiling!

Crazy wiring!

“My guy” and his “guy”! Oh another thing we found in the wasted space was some funky plumbing (on the right side) any way, “my guys” guy is also pretty good at plumbing. He took care of that for me also!

Wednesday…today. The electrician came again today to finish up all he needed to do until the painting is done and the cabinets are in. One crazy thing (it seems “crazy” is the theme for this project"), when the electrician/plumber was looking for my main water valve to shut off so he could fix my plumbing he couldn’t find it. It wasn’t for lack of looking, we both looked in every closet, room, storage space even the garage…no luck! In fact I called my friend who has my exact same floor plan to ask where her valve was, she knew exactly where it was, so I looked in the same area…not there! I have to find it. If we ever had an issue and we needed to shut off the water, we would be in sorry shape! Anyway….back to today, “my guy” also has another “guy”…the “tape & texture” guy! After “my guy” hung the sheetrock today, his “other guy” came to tape. The office is starting to look amazing!!!

Milestones

2012-01-20T10:34:00.001-07:00

So I have decided not to to a “major” update! It would take too long. So here are some milestones that have occurred since the last “big” post in Jan 2011.

I guess the first milestone is that we bought a small vacation home in Donnelly, Idaho. That will be its own post since right now “before & after” pictures are on my laptop that has been non-functioning since about March.

The next milestone is the addition of our newest grand daughter, Hannah Kay. She arrived happy and healthy on August 20.

She is perfect and we are all so happy she is here!

The final milestone is that we are gaining another son-in-law!

Andy & Michelle were engaged on Saturday Jan 14th! They will be getting married this summer! We are so excited for them!!!

Update?

2011-11-09T15:07:00.001-07:00

This is how my life feels….

This is how I would like it to be!

Update coming soon!

More from the Philippines

2011-01-20T02:55:00.007-07:00

I have added a picture of Kirk Nichols. He is a nurse anesthetist from Utah who worked with us during the 1st week. This is the hotel we are staying at. It is quite nice and the wi-fi is helpful. The little girl with the smile gets my vote for our happiest patient. Always waving and blowing kisses.

Philippines - End of week one

2011-01-16T02:41:00.006-07:00

Here are a few more pictures. The girl who seems to be unhappy to be with Geoff is little Reza. We did her cleft lip and palate on previous missions. She was so malnourished that Geoff provided nutrition for a year before doing her palate surgery. Now she is doing well. The picture of the pig roasting over open coals is a reminder that the there is a festive atmosphere here in Kabankalan and a lot of people milling about because it is the time of the annual Sinalog festival.

More from the Philippines

2011-01-15T05:37:00.005-07:00

This cute little girl had surgery cancelled on two previous missions because she was sick. When she arrived this time she had a fever so it looked like it might happen again. She looked like it might happen again. The next morning she seemed OK so we went ahead. The photo up above is me getting IV fluids after two days with the flu or food poisoning.

More from the Philippines

2011-01-13T08:48:00.004-07:00

I have added some more pictures of the patients and their parents. It is always fun and touching to take the children out to their parents after surgery. They are waiting so anxiously to see what the change will look like. All of the preop patients and their families as well as the post surgery patients are in one room. They seem to bond with one another and help one another. We worked until after midnight last night and today looks about the same. Geoff was concerned that we might not have enough patients. Turns out it is the most we have ever had. The OB business continues to be booming here. I will add some pictures of the benches where they wait to go and deliver as well as the delivery table inside.

Philippines 2011

2011-01-12T09:52:00.005-07:00

We have gotten off to a good start on our humanatarian mission to repair cleft lips and cleft palates here in Kabankalan, Occidental Negroes, Philippines. After leaving Boise on Friday and traveling to Portland, Tokyo, Manila, Bacolad and a two hour car ride, I arrived at my destination on Sunday evening. On Monday we evaluated about 45 patients and then did one operation on Monday night. This is my 5th trip to the Philippines and my third to this specific hospital, so I feel a lot more comfortable and my anxiety level is not so high. Still it is off the beaten path and there are always challenges to overcome. On Tuesday we did three operations and got back to the hotel by 9:30 PM. That is a bit unusual. I have become accustomed to much later nights. Because of my familiarity with the environment and the process, there are things I can do to improve efficiency throughout the day. I am writing this on Wednesday and we are just about to complete our fourth case today. No major problems with any of the cases so far. I am sharing the work with Kirk Nichols this week. He is a nurse anesthetist from Utah. His journey to the Philippines turned into a saga after he had boarded his connection in Los Angeles. It seems that the luggage people bumped against the plane with their vehicle and knocked a hole in it. I do enjoy the Philippines with its 80 degree temperatures in January and lush green vegetation. The people are wonderful. I even like the little geckos on the lunch room walls. Several people have asked “where is Miss Sandra” and I have to explain that she couldn’t make it this year. Sandra would be amazed that there are even more babies being delivered at this little hospital this year than last and as always the women barely make a sound as they go through labor without an epidural. Sandra would appreciate that Kirk and I rode a “trike” back to the hotel last night. That is a motorcycle with a side car that serves as a taxi. The locals will often get 10 or 12 people on it at one time.

Just Because…

2011-01-09T23:05:00.001-07:00

I have been terrible at updating my blog lately, so this picutre is “just because”.

No Emma does not wear glasses, she just found a pair of her Auntie Kelsi’s old ones and thought she would try them out!

I love this girl!

FAMILY PICTURES & OTHER ACTIVITIES

2010-10-21T11:22:00.001-06:00

All the kids were home last week, so we thought it would be fun to go the the Boise Train Depot and take some family pictures.

We also went to Emmett to the orchard and picked some very delicious yellow delicious apples. Emma’s favorite was the extra large red delicious!

We also made a some apple pie filling.

Kelsi & Michelle getting the apples ready

Danielle filling the bottles

Batch #1 finished!

We also went to a Centennial High football game and the to the Boise Fry Company. I love having my family here. We had such a fun week!

Summer Fun!

2010-08-24T22:16:00.001-06:00

(This is going to be long)

It has been way to long since I have updated this blog. We have had a fun and busy summer.

JUNE

In June mom had a condo in St. George for a week. We were able to go spend a few days with her. It was a little chilly but we managed to have some fun!Cindy & Mom at Tuachan

Kevin, Sandra & Kelsi Matt

RussMatt with one of the “original” Tarzan’s (I think he was like #15)

Also in June I went with my girls on a trip to New York City! We had so much fun I loved every minute of time I spent with them!

Lunch in the SLC airport. Waiting to board our plane.

Snacks on the plane (our own of course!)

On our way to find Carlo’s Bakery

A little blurry, but on the PATH heading for New Jersey (I think) We got a little confused and started out the wrong way!

We made it!

OH YUM!!! It was delicious!

Our first shopping stop, it definately wasn’t our last!

How much did you say this was going to cost?!!!

Going to see “Wicked”

Dinner after the show. Yes that is french fries and ice cream! (we are on vacation!)

At the “Top of the Rock”

On the tour bus.

We were able to take a few tours around the city.

The Museum of Modern Art

Harbor Cruise

On our way to Ground Zero and more shopping!

Inside Grand Central Station

Central Park after church

Waiting for about an hour to get into Serendipity

I think it was worth the wait! Frozen Hot Chocolate and Cheese cake!

We left early the next morning to come home. It was such a fun trip. I have amazing daughters!

JULY

In July we had a fun neighborhood parade and pancake breakfast for the 4th. (no pics)

Also Kevin, Matt and Kelsi went on our ward Trek. There were about 94 youth and 40 adults. It is such a great experience for all of those that participate.

Kevin is the trek “doc” some of the kids called him Colonel Sanders because of the tie!

While they were Trekking, Danielle and Emma came to visit for a few days.

At the end of the month we went to the Munro Reunion. I thought I had some pictures, but I can’t seem to find them, ummmm.

To finish off the month, we spent a week at a friend’s cabin, Lessley, Ryan and their family were able to come and spend the week with us!

At the end of the week Michelle’s best friend Tamari was married, we were able to attend her sealing ceremony.

Congratulations, Tamari & Chase!

AUGUST

August started out with the annual Kartchner family reunion. Our family was in charge this year and Kevin decided that he wanted to paint Margaret & Gene’s rental house (3rd North). So that is what we did. It was a big job, but it turned out great.

Before

Kelsi, Jessi & Leah put together school kits and hygiene kits while the others painted.

Having a little break!

Looking good!

After

Thanks everyone for all of your help!

After the painting was done, up to the canyon for yummy dutch oven chicken & potatoes and a little fun and s’mores!

After the reunion, Kevin, Matt, Kelsi & I headed to Jackson Hole and Yellowstone for the scenic route home!

At the Bar J

Antler Arch in the middle of Jackson Hole

The beautiful Tetons

Waiting for Old Faithful

There she goes!

The only wildlife we saw

Milkshakes in West Yellowstone.

Beautiful sunset on our way home!

I know this was a long post, but it was a very fun summer. Now it is time for kids to go back to school and the weather to turn cooler!

Mother’s Day

2010-05-14T09:41:00.001-06:00

For a lot of years Mother’s Day was not my favorite day, for a few reasons. But for the last few years my thinking has changed and it isn’t so bad. This Mother’s Day made me realize just how blessed I am to be a mother.This is why:

These were delivered to my house the Tuesday before from three of my favorite people

Then on Wednesday before Mother’s Day a visitor arrived:

I love this girl!!!

Then the actual day arrived and it was really a good day! I received very thoughtful gifts:

A very “sweet” candy bar poster from Kelsi

Beautiful hand made cards with heartfelt thoughts on each one from Michelle.

And from this guy what do I get? A great big bear hug and a sweet testimony,

Steak, Cream Cheese Filled Strawberries, Funeral Potatoes, Grilled Corn on the Cob and Pasta Salad

No Mother’s Day would be complete without a delicious meal prepared by my great family!

The one thing that I always say I would like most on Mother’s Day is peace, love and harmony in my home. This year I truly got that.

Something else that makes me thankful I am a mom is that I have the privilege of being a grandma to this beautiful, crazy, sweet little girl.

WEEKEND IN PHOENIX

2010-04-26T12:02:00.001-06:00

Okay, it was really only about a day and a half, but we were traveling for the weekend!

My niece, Kristen, invited us all down to Phoenix to visit her a couple of weeks ago. I was the only one from my family that was able to go, so, I rode down (yes in a car) with my sister, Cindy, brother in law, Russ and luckily…my niece, Lessley. I say luckily because it would have been a pretty long total of 20 hours (or 500 hours, depending on who you talk to) in a car!

We left Salt Lake on Friday morning and after a couple of stops were on our “scenic route” way. The Scenic Route meaning we left the freeway and went on 2 lane roads through places like Panquich, Ut. Where the gas station had the nerve to put “soda” water in their soda fountains instead of just “plain” water! We also drove through Kanab, UT where they save money in their city budget by hiring “dummy” cops.

I guess it works, we slowed down, and even turned around to take this picture!

Cindy:There is a dummy in that cop car.

The rest of us: No way.

Cindy: Yes there is, turn around!

So we did, and she was right!

We made it to Phoenix, Anthem, Scottsdale….at about 7pm AZ time.

It was such a great weekend spending some time with Kristen and her cute family.

We played the WII

Well, Sierra played the wii and was very good!!!

Lessley got a short lesson on how to ride a rip-stick.

Judge for yourself how well she learned!

I think she improved!

We went to dinner on Saturday night to celebrate my mom’s 76th (yes I said 76) birthday.

We had to wait about an hour to get into eat. We were all able to keep ourselves entertained.

We finally got in and were able to eat and then sing Happy Birthday!

Love ya mom!!!

Before we left the next morning, Jared wanted us to meet his fiance’ Victoria. So we all went to breakfast to spend a little more time with the “fam” before we left.

Jared and Victoria are getting married next April! Congratulations!!!

It was so fun spending the weekend with family. Thanks Kristen and Matt for inviting us down!!!

See you November!

February & March Update

2010-04-21T20:22:00.001-06:00

So I have been frequently reminded (from some that are very close to me) that I really need to update my blog, so luckily I took some pictures in Feb. & Mar.

In February I spent some time in Plain City with Danielle, Steve & Emma. I was there to help celebrate Little Miss E’s 1st birthday. Danielle made a very cute cake and it was fun to help her get the party ready. Unfortunately, Emma was really sick and didn’t really enjoy all of the festivities that were planned.

In March, Michelle came for a little visit to show us her new car (that we bought but hadn’t seen). It is always so fun to have her come home!

Also in March, Kelsi & I spent spring break with Danielle, Steve & Emma. While we were there Danielle had a book party, she has started selling Usborne books. In the first picture you will notice Cindy & Danielle at the computer. The funny thing about this picture is that Cindy is teaching Danielle how to do something on the computer and not the other way around! It was fun to have a relaxing week. Matt spent spring break in Moab, UT mountain biking, but on Saturday on their way home they were able to drop Matt off with me, so he was able to spend some quality time with the Little Miss, teaching her the ins and outs of the game boy!

Highlights

2010-01-28T16:41:00.001-07:00

Now that we have been home a few days, and I am slowly getting back to normal. I want to just finish this adventure with some photo highlights.

Witnessing how people drive without traffic signs Understanding that geckos are my friends gecko=no bugs!

Seeing the need for why Geoff does what he does.

Seeing this. . .go to

this. . .and finally tothis.

Watching Kevin do his job!

Being a part of children receiving a gift of ice-cream, some for the first time.

Making new friends!

Feeling blessed for what I have and realizing people can be happy no matter their circumstance.

Being in the OR and taking this picture! Observing Geoff removing stitches and not even passing out!

Seeing first hand the love and concern Geoff has for the children he does surgery for.

Enjoying the beauty of Mag-aso Falls.

Kesh, Julie, Dr. Majong, Kevin,

Geoff, Sandra, Kring-Kring, Flor & Mitch

Spending a life changing two weeks with these amazing people!

THE NURSES

2010-01-28T15:45:00.001-07:00

I am almost finished with my Philippine Adventure, but I couldn’t finish without a tribute to the nurses.

Kring-Kring, Mitch, & Julie--Taking a “Break”

A little background on Filipino nurses. There are quite a few nursing programs in the Philippines and they graduate a lot of nurses.

Nursing Students

The problem is that they don’t have a lot of jobs for them. So, they are basically required to volunteer for at least 1 year before they can get a job, and even then it isn’t guaranteed.

The one thing that caught my eye from the moment I met the nurses is that they are always smiling.

They never once complained about the long hours they spent working. Even when it was 2:00 am and they had to be back at the hospital at 8:00 am.

Julie & Mitch

They are an inspiration to me and a great example of generosity, kindness and happiness.

Thanks for letting me spend 2 wonderful weeks with you. I know my attitude about a lot of things have changed because of “The Nurses”!

Mitch, Kring-Kring, Julie, Flor

Day Care Visit

2010-01-20T01:49:00.002-07:00

The first time Kevin came to Kabankalan, Ray took him out to a day care center. At the time it was located close to a river, and was prone to flooding. Ray had told Kevin they were hoping to build a new school that wouldn't flood. They were able to do that!

Today I visited the new school that they have been in almost a year. We were able to take them a double gas burner so they could prepare food for the children instead of cooking over coals. While we were there Ray had mentioned that they would really like to tile the floor. Well, one of the mother's said something to Paul about a tile floor and he donated a $100us right there! They were very excited. That should be a big help towards them getting their new floor!

Ice Cream--again!

2010-01-20T01:40:00.002-07:00

As promised, ice cream was again delivered to the school on Tuesday!

It was so fun watching over 400 children enjoy a small cup/cone of ice cream and a cookie---before lunch!

We had enough for the 1st-4th grades.

When Paul found out that there wouldn't be enough for the 5th & 6th grade, he ordered more for the next day for them!

I think that little ice cream man made more money in 2 days than he usually makes in a 6 months!

Sinulog-Festival

2010-01-19T04:12:00.006-07:00

On the 3rd Sunday of January, in Kabankalan, Philippines they have Sinulog-Festival.

Leading up to Sunday, they have beauty pagents, drum competitions and vendors covering the town plaza.

Sunday is the BIG day. They start the day with a parade of all of the tribes or barangays.
They have drums, dancers and beauty queens.
In the photos above notice my nice clean face.

After we watched the parade and went to church, we met at Fleurs for lunch. Now just so you know why the faces are black. It is tradition during the festival on Sunday to paint your faces black, now you can either do it yourself or the locals will gladly do it for you.

It looks like Kesh and Geoff had a little painting done!

After a yummy lunch we headed to the town plaza for the tribal competition. Lots of tribes, 15 in all. Loud drums and great costumes and dancing.

The handsome man in the corner of this photo is Efriam. He was our trusted driver at all hours of the morning and night and he got us VIP seats for the competition!

Kevin and I escaped many attempts at face painting. We actually made it to church without any incidents. But as we walked to the plaza for the competition, we had a few who wanted to paint the tall white americans, so we let them. That was the top picture. We left the competition before it was quite over and got mobbed! We ended up looking like the bottom picture. yuck!

This was one of those experiences where once in a lifetime is enough!

Elma's House

2010-01-19T02:33:00.018-07:00

One thing I really wanted to do on this trip was to go visit Elma at her house.

Elma is little girl who was born with a cleft lip and cleft palate. She met Geoff 3 years ago when he came to the Philippines on a medical mission. At that time she had her cleft lip repaired. They never do the lip and palate at the same time, so Elma and her mom were told that they could have her palate repaired the following year. Well, the following year was 2 years ago, and Kevin's first medical mission with ICSF. He met Elma and was instantly hooked.

Elma holds a special place in Geoff's heart also. She is sort of his "poster child" for his missions this year.

Anyway, after hearing so much about sweet Elma and looking at her picture for 2 years, I wanted to meet her for myself.

Luckily, Geoff wanted to go visit her! So instead of going to the beach or the waterfall, we went to visit Elma.

The following are pictures of our trip.

Following the sugar cane truck. These are everywhere. Sugar cane is their major crop.

Looking out over a sugar cane field, up in the mountains.

We were not able to drive all the way to Elma's for a couple of reasons. One was that you had to drive on a dirt road, and since it had rained we had to walk up the dirt road.

This is the other reason we couldn't drive. We had to walk on a cow trail through the field, up the hill to get to her house.

Still walking.

Our first glimpse of Elma's houses. A picture is worth a thousand words.

Elma and her little brother weren't quite sure what to think of all of the strangers at their house.

But she was happy to see Geoff!

Elma's beautiful mom and little brother.

Elma's dad. I think he liked having us come and visit.

We took Elma a teddy bear and a coloring book and crayons.

She loved the bear.

She colored with Geoff, after she got her bear comfortable!

There was a water buffalo (caribou) in the field above their house.

There was a goat under the house.

Getting ready to leave before it gets dark.

This is a little family that lived along the dirt road, the mother went with us to Elma's.

It was very humbling to see the circumstances that they live in, one room shack no water & no electricity. But they seem happy. They really don't know any other way of life.

Elma was a sweetheart, as I had expected.

It was worth the trip.

This is why I am here

2010-01-15T01:28:00.002-07:00

OUR SCHOOL VISIT

2010-01-15T00:12:00.012-07:00

This post is a little long, but I didn't know what not to say :)

School Principal, Grace, Paul, Fleur, Me, Ray
With the donations (Including Ice Cream, courtesy of Paul)

One of the things I was looking forward to doing when I came was visiting a school the Rotary Club sponsers for a lunch program. The Rotary Club and the JC's are very active in Kabankalan. They do a lot of community service and they are the ones who help out ICSF when they are in town. They are the one's who provide food (lunch & dinner) while the team is at the hospital. They are the transportation to and from the hotel to the hospital (sometimes very late at night). They are just great organizations that do a lot of good.

So, back to the school. The Rotarians chose this specific school to help because they have quite a few children who do not get the nutrition they need. Some days if the children didn't have anything for lunch at lunch time, they would go home and usually not go back. Therefore, not getting their education. The Rotarians asked the school to choose 50 0f the most undernourished 1st grade children, so they could provide them a nutritious lunch. They are providing lunch for 40 days for these children. I asked if they were going to continue to this project and Grace said that they were only doing it for this one time. I am going to talk to her more to see what we can do to help out. I realize there is a lot of need out there and we can't do everything, but maybe there is a little something.

The Rotary Club was also able to donate a TV and DVD player and a clean water tank and pump. Those items also arrived the day we visited. We were lucky enough to watch the pricipal open the boxes, then she invited us to have our picture taken with her and the donations.

Before we actually went to visit the children while they were eating lunch, the told us they had some snacks for us. So off we went to the Principal's office!

Here is "that" Grace eating her snack of boiled bananas and sweet potatoes.

Now it was time to go visit the children. We arrived just at the teachers were serving the lunch. There was a big pot of rice and another pot that had some sort of vegetable soup. It is the responsibility of the parents to take turns preparing the food for the lunch. The children also provide their own plate and cup and spoon.

They wait in line for their turn to receive their food.

Now it's time to eat!

I commented to Grace that they didn't seem undernourished and she said that they have been doing the program since November and all of the children have gained weight! They were pretty healthy and very happy!

And you know, not one of them said "I don't like this!"

They loved it!

In the first picutre you may be wondering who Paul is. Paul is a guy who had a friend that recenty passed away and left Paul in charge of a large amount of money with instructions to do something good for the children of the Philippines. Pauls friend liked to go to schools and buy ice cream for the children. Paul recently heard about ICSF and wanted to help the foundation in some way, so he is. He has donated money and he is making sure the team is well cared for while here. For example, the first 2 days we ordered our breakfast individually and it took quite a while for it to come and our driver would have to wait. Paul took care of it. We now have a buffet style breakfast every morning. Paul found out the team didn't have cold drinks during the day. He goes out every morning gets 2 coolers full of ice and drinks. Paul is a good guy to have around. So not only is Paul providing little extras for the team, he wanted to provide extra for the children at the school when we went to visit. In keeping with his friend's tradition, he brought ice cream!

Sandra, Paul & "Amazing" Grace

After scooping out ice cream for not only the 50 lunch program children, we scooped out for the whole first grade!

While we were scooping, Fleur asked the children how many had never had ice cream before. There were about 85% of the kids who raised their hands.

(You have it good, Matt!)

When we were done scooping for the 1st grade we had some left. There were kids peeking in the door watching, so we scooped up what we had left and gave it to them.

Unfortunately, there wasn't enough for all the onlookers.

But not to worry. We'll be back on Tuesday with more ice cream!!!

The Tricycles

2010-01-13T05:39:00.005-07:00

The main mode of transportation here is the "tricycle". It is great, you flag it down like a taxi or there are specific places that they will pick you up, like a bus stop.

My first tricycle experience was our clinic day. I left before they started the surgery for the day. I was a nervous to go on the tricycle myself, but Fleur assured me it would be fine.

Luckily, Dr. Majong came to my rescue! He hadn't checked into the hotel yet and needed to, so he rode with me. He sat on the back of the motorcycle and I sat inside.

Thanks, Dr. Majong for letting me stay dry!

My driver.

He thought I was a little crazy for wanting to take his picture!
Kevin took this picture to show how they can get a lot of people on one tricycle. Fleur said that 20 people can fit. I would like to see it.
The more people that get on, the more money they make.
Just to let you know how much they make here's the breakdown:
About 45 pesos make 1 dollar.
It costs 7 pesos per person to ride from on place to another in town.
They are not making a lot of money.

This is a lovely shot of Kevin & I both riding in the little cart.

It was cozy!

Days 2 & 3

2010-01-13T04:57:00.007-07:00

So, day two the work really began. They had a full day of surgery. I was able to go in and see what Kevin does all day to provide for our family! For those of you who know me well, know the operating room is probably the last place I would choose to spend my time (something about the sights and smells).

Since the reason I came to the Philippines was to really see what Dr. Williams does, the best place to be was in the OR.

My daily attire is scrubs, hat and occasionally a mask when I go into the operating room.

Yes I really am in there, sitting on a stool behind the anesthesia machine. This is as close as I got to the patient! The following pictures are what I took, to prove I was in there!

Dr. Majong, Kevin and Kesh getting the baby put to sleep.

Kevin, Dr. Porter, Fleur, Dr. Williams, & nursing student.

Yes, I took this picture! From behind the anesthesia machine!
See Kevin doing his job? That's what he does, watch the patient, watch the moniter, listen to the machine, write down how the patient is doing every 5 minutes. Actually, there is a lot more that he does, and I have heard and now seen he does his job well!

Today is day 3.

When we arrived at the hospital, Kevin and I went to the ward to see the kids who had had their surgeries and who would be getting them today. Yesterday we had given some coloring books and crayons, today,the little girl on the right,who was having surgery when I left today, wanted to show us the pictures she had colored! She was a sweetie. The boy on the left was another one who stole my heart the first day. He is 13 and so handsome and has the best smile. He had his lip repaired last night, you can't see it that well in this picutre, but it looks great. I can't wait until he comes back next week to get stitches out.

Day One. . .Evaluation Clinic

2010-01-11T04:09:00.004-07:00

Since Kevin has done these missions before, I knew there would be a clinic where they would do evaluations to see all of the patients and decide if they would be able to help them or not. I can not describe the feeling I had today when we walked out into the waiting room and saw all of these beautiful children and their families. We saw about 40 patients and were able to schedule about 33 surgeries. This little girl stole my heart the moment I saw her. And her mother is beautiful!
We have a picture similar to this one from when Kevin went on his first mission with ICSF. The kids are facinated with the stethoscope!

It is amazing to me the time and attention Dr. Williams and all of the members of the team gave to each person that came in. I think the youngest was 6 months and the oldest was 27 years. I would love to share all of the pictures I took today, but it takes way to long to load them on blogger. I will try before the end of the week to have some before and after. I am sure the outcome will be amazing as always!

Thanks to Dr. Geoff Williams for letting me share this experience with him!

More New Friends . . .

2010-01-11T03:55:00.006-07:00

These guys are everywhere! Maybe the ones this big aren't every where, I have only actually seen one. This is it & it was at Grace's house last night!
The ones this big really are everywhere. These are in the room where we ate lunch today.

This is just a close up of one in the room of lunching.

And. . .there is one in my room right now! I had to choose between it and the mosquitoes! I chose the gecko! The problem is, I am not sure where he is. Hopefully Kevin will find him when he gets back tonight. I'm not sure how excited I am to sleep with a gecko hiding somewhere in my room!

A Little Sunday Drive & New Friends

2010-01-11T03:12:00.009-07:00

We flew in to Bacolod, Philippines from Manila on Sunday morning. Our new friend Fleur was there to meet us, along with the rest of the team.

Geoff was planning to go to Cadiz, which is about 2 hours in the oppisite direction from Kabankalan. He is doing a mission there in Feburary and wanted to check on a couple of things. He was also planning on attending church, so Kevin and I went along. I have to admit, it was the first and probably the only time we have attended sacrament meeting in shorts and t-shirts.

Like I said the drive was about 2 hours there and 4 hours back this is what a lot of the roads looked like. The little tricycles, busses, and people. Lots and lots of people!

There were also lots of sugar cane fields, rice fields and water buffalo. Hopefully a better picture to come!

More new friends. These were some of the kids at church. A little shy at first. But warmed up quickly!

These are the nurses that will be helping this week "Mitch" "Kling-Kling", Julie aka LL Cool J, and Fleur.

The Philippine people are so kind and happy. This is Geoff & I with Grace. She made dinner for us on Sunday night. We were supposed to be there about 7, but didn't make it until 8:30 because after our Sunday Drive we still had to set up the OR.

More posts to come!

PHILIPPINES 2010

2010-01-08T09:36:00.003-07:00

Kevin enjoying the tradional Mcdonalds Breakfast at the airport.

Our journey has begun.

We are at the airport waiting for our plane. So we thought we would just post a little with a picture.

We are hoping to post some while we are there, but not sure how the internet connection will work.

I am excited for the adventure.

Looking forward to helping where needed.

Nervous to be away from my family for so long.

But, knowing they will be fine!

Thanks to Mom and Lessley for spending your time to make sure my kids are safe and cared for.

What!? It’s December. . .

2009-12-14T17:19:00.001-07:00

If I would keep on top of things, I wouldn’t have to play catch-up with this blog! So December is already halfway gone and I haven’t even posted anything that happened in November. Sad, because November was a great month, but not to worry, here is my “catch-up”.

MEXICAN CRUISE

For an early Christmas present, Kevin’s parents took us and his siblings and spouses on a cruise to Mexico. It was so much fun spending “adult” time with Kevin’s family. They are so much fun. So here a a few pictures of our fun week.

One night we thought it would be fun to all dress up for dinner.

Cabo San Lucas

Mazatlan

Puerto Vallarta. We did a zip line tour with Jayme and Richy. That is probably the most fun thing I have done!

The fun people we spent our week with.

Beautiful sunsets.

THANKSGIVING

Less than a week after we got home from Mexico it was Thanksgiving. Kevin’s parents invited us down for dinner and since Kevin had the time off (that doesn’t happen very often) we decided to go. At that same time Danielle and Steven were moving into their new home, so they asked if we wanted to come and help them (of course we will!). So after dinner in Logan, we were off to Plain City to visit Danielle, Steve and our Little Miss “E”.

I don’t have any pictures of dinner in Logan, but here are a few of Emma. There are no pictures of actually working!

She loved sitting in this basket. It kept her confined and happy!

Danielle and Michelle cooking up some yummy breakfast.

Oh, I did have one picture of someone working. Kevin was a great blind installer!

So after we finished at Danielle’s we made our annual trek to Bancroft, Idaho to have our traditional turkey dinner and go to Lava Hot Springs and then out for pizza.

Mom & Aunt Del

This is how many places were set. Before we were through we had to add a few more. It is so much fun to have so many people there. We missed Kim, Krista, Kristen, Jared,Angie, Brian and Shawn and their families.

If you can’t tell what this is, It is a turkey pinata. Thanks to Russ! The kids love this tradition.

After we had our turkey lunch and pinata, we head over the hill to Lava to the hot springs and pizza. No pictures of the hot springs, but a few from the pizza place (where we take our own ice cream and chocolate sauce for milkshakes).

This is Danielle and her good friend Rani. It has been quite a few years since they had seen each other and Rani and her family happened to be at the same pizza place we were. It was so fun for them to see each other.

We had a great November and are now ready for December!

OCTOBER UPDATE

2009-11-04T09:33:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe that October is gone and November is already here. I’ll give a photo tour (with some narration) of what we did fun things happened in October.

The first weekend I spent in Elko, Nv with my mom and two of my sisters. We were able to tour Barrick Gold Mine where Randy (my brother-law-works). Just a little fyi…the trucks are HUGE!

Spent a lot of quality time with the ones I love!

Kevin, Matt, Kelsi & Steven also included, just no pics!

Did a lot of driving to go “window shopping” never buying, only looking.

Kelsi carving our only jack-o-lantern (Oct. 31 at 5pm)

Kelsi had some friends over for pizza and “spookiwi” soda before trick-or-treating.

Finally, the annual donuts and cider for those parents who go out with their kids. I always think they need more than candy, and it gives me the chance to visit with people I see driving in the neighborhood, but never talk to!

Arrow Rock Reservoir

2009-09-24T10:51:00.001-06:00

The week before school started our friends and neighbors, the Doelman’s, invited our family to go with them jet skiing and wakeboarding at Arrow Rock. We had never been there before and were happy for the invite, and Matthew and Kelsi were more than happy to join them. Below are some pictures of our afternoon, including some “unexpected” happenings.

Kelsi, Joy and Matt

Kelsi, Elle and Tim

Matt

Kelsi

The following picture is something you should never have to be exposed to on a public beach! Although we couldn’t believe what was happening, we couldn’t stop laughing.

These next few pictures are what not to do when you are trying to take out your boat on the beach.

It looks like you are kind of stuck, maybe you should unhook your boat and try loading somewhere else. Nah, we can do it.

Wow, you are pretty deep, maybe unhooking the boat would be a good idea.

How many trucks does it take to pull out a truck that is in mud up to it’s axles? Oh, about 3 plus a lot of shoveling. (They did end up unhooking the boat after about an hour and a half)

This is a much easier way to get in and out of the lake!

Time Our For Women…

2009-09-24T10:15:00.001-06:00

Every year I get together with my mom and some of my sisters and go to Time out for Women. We try to go to the one in Boise (I love having people come and visit!), but because of conflicts with the date the past couple of years, we have missed the Boise one and have gone to Logan instead. That works out well for us though, because of the generosity of Kevin’s parents, we are able to stay with them. Now having said all of that, this past weekend was spent in Logan at Time out for Women. We had so much fun and really enjoyed the presenters. This year we did Friday night and Saturday. We weren’t sure we would stay for the whole thing on Friday (3 hours) but it ended up being so good we didn’t want to leave.

Cherie Call

Cheiko Okasaki

Michael McClean

Mark Mabry ..He has a book of photographs “Reflections of Christ” it is beautiful.

Saturday proved to be just as good.

Cherie Call, Emily Watts, Mary Ellen Edmunds, Jill Manning, Brent L. Top

Thanks Cindy, Becky, Mom and Teresa for helping me have a much needed fun and uplifting weekend!

Only if you are interested…

2009-09-03T11:53:00.001-06:00

I have had some who have said they would like to see my 24th of July fireworks pictures, I did a little slide show, let’s see if it will work…

I think it did!!!

24th of July in Bancroft

2009-08-04T15:45:00.001-06:00

I don’t get to Bancroft very often for the 24th of July, so it was fun to be able to go this year. Kelsi had spent the week with Danielle & Steve helping with Emma while they were packing to move and she needed a way home. Cindy & Russ were going to my mom’s to sell shaved ice at the parade so they let Kelsi ride with them, and I drove down and picked her up. Kevin had to work and Matt stayed home to take care of the dog, so it was just me. Here are some fun pictures of our fun weekend.

Kelsi helping with the Shave Ice

Russ & Kelsi

Waiting for the paradeEli getting as much candy as possible!

Russ getting our fireworks show ready

George with the goods.

Lots of “showers of sparks were emitted”!

And the crowd goes wild!!!

Where we have been & what we have been doing. . .

2009-07-20T17:24:00.002-06:00

Blessing, Bear Lake, Birthdays, 4th of July, Weddings, Roofing, Reunioning!

I realize it has been months (2) since I have posted anything. Maybe because we have been a little busy! So in my normal fashion, I will do a picture post because a picture says a “thousand words”.

First item Little Miss “E”’s baby blessing.

Miss "E"'s Great Grandma Kartchner made Miss E’s beautiful blessing dress

Next. . . Bear Lake

It was a little chilly but we all had a great time.

Steve, Kelsi & Matt on the jet-ski

Where is that dang horse shoe?!

Matt,Sandra & Danielle’s birthdays (we also had Michelle, Steve & Kevin’s birthdays, but no photos).

4th of July fun with our neighbors

Stacy & Stephanie’s Wedding

My mom needed her roof reshingled, so she enlisted the help of her daughters and son’s-in-law and grandchildren. Thanks mom for letting us help you!

There is an easy way and a hard way to get shingles on the roof. We preferred the easy way!!!

While at Grandma’s, Matt got a little practice driving a stick shift. He decided being at and helping grandma wasn’t so bad after all!

The Reunion

It has been a crazy couple of months but we have had a lot of fun. There is nothing better than being with family and friends!

Memory Lane

2009-05-11T21:53:00.001-06:00

So I know some people think that Disney is “of the Devil”. But I have to say our family’s favorite vacations have been to Disney World.

I have been going through some old pictures and came across these and they brought back some really fun memories.

So I invite you to take a walk with me down memory lane!

This particular time was in June of 2005 when we went to pick up Danielle after her 5 months of working there (her dream come true!)

Danielle in her FAVORITE: Test Track Uniform

Matt ,Sandra, Kelsi and Michelle in front of….you guessed it, EPCOT

It’s not a Disney vacation without the Character Breakfast!

Remember this was 4 years ago!

Check out Matt’s face…He did not like this waitress. She made him finish his dinner before he could have his dessert (not really, but it was so funny)!

Michelle, Danielle, Kelsi, Matt, Sandra & Kevin

Thanks for letting me take that little stroll. I hope you enjoyed it too!

I’m thinking it’s about time to go visit Mickey again!

FAMILY & EASTER

2009-04-19T15:45:00.001-06:00

Every year for Easter we usually have Sean and Dianne and their family come and visit (every year but last year). This year it was spring break for Danielle and Michelle so they came (with Steve and Miss E). Then on Wednesday, Lessley called and wanted to know if we wanted more company and we said sure, so she came with Eli and Hallie. So the total number of people that inhabited our home from Thursday until Sunday was 16 plus 2 dogs! it was crazy FUN!!! I took about a hundred (or more) pictures, so I decided to group some for your enjoyment!

We made and ate “cake pops”. This was Steve’s favorite activity (eating the cake pops!)!

We relaxed, played the piano, watched movies and had a fun easter egg hunt.

We colored Easter eggs.

Thanks for coming everyone! Hope we can do it again next year!!!

What season is it anyway?

2009-03-06T14:17:00.001-07:00

I am not the only one who thinks spring should be here.

This is what I saw this morning when I got home from walking.

If you ever wonder…

2009-03-06T14:14:00.001-07:00

sometimes I wonder if my kids really like each other.

I was thinking that the other day then I walked by Matt’s bedroom door and saw this …

Then I did this…

Then I walked in his room and saw this… (little notes)and this…

I think they do like each other (at least Kelsi likes Matt!)

Aunt Kelsi meets Miss “Em”

2009-02-17T13:41:00.002-07:00

So every day since February 4. (Miss Em’s birthday) Kelsi has really, really, really, really (you get the idea) been wanting to go meet her new niece. Since last weekend was a long weekend and I was sort of missing Little Em myself, I decided we would go for a visit. Kelsi was so happy and loved every minute of being with her, even when she cried (which really wasn’t very often). Thanks Danielle and Steve for letting us come for another visit.

A busy day…

2009-02-09T17:23:00.001-07:00

So today was a pretty busy day in Little Em’s life.

First activity: Bath

Then it’s off to to Dr. to check weight & billiruben. Everything was great!

When we got back, there were gifts to open from the baby shower Danielle missed because she was in the hospital.

We thought the hat was the cutest!!!

Grandparents…

2009-02-08T21:46:00.001-07:00

I have loved being here for the first few days of little Emma’s life. It is really a feeling that I cannot describe. It was so nice to have Grandma and Grandpa “Great” (as Danielle calls them) come by and visit her on her first day of life here on this earth. I was also so happy to have Kevin drive down with me to witness this miracle!

I am really going to love this grandparenting thing!!!

Day 3 of Baby “Em”’s Life

2009-02-06T19:50:00.001-07:00

We took Baby Em home from the hospital today. I felt privileged to be able to drive her and Danielle. It has been a good day and think both are happy to be home.

She was a good girl for the car ride home.

Auntie Shell & Baby “Em"

2009-02-06T17:26:00.002-07:00

BABY EMMA IS HERE

2009-02-05T11:36:00.001-07:00

Mom and baby

Look at those “tiny” feet!

This is just a teaser, more to come!

A Little Bit of the Philippines

2009-02-02T19:22:00.003-07:00

This is just a taste of Kevin's Philippine Medical Mission. We will post a few more in the coming days. Dr. Williams, Flore, Kevin, Emily & Kellie
This is "little" Riza. She is a one year old that only weighed about 10 lbs.

Notice the scrubs "normal" blue. No purple silk this time!

This is the first day. There were 51 children waiting to be evaluated.

They were able to do 34 surgeries.

It Worked!!

2009-01-12T12:28:00.008-07:00

Don't ask what I did differently, but I got a few pictures to post. Michelle mixing up our drinks

Grandma and Kelsi watching the excitement

Steve, look at that "warrior" pose!

Cindy & Russ, watching is just as good as actually doing!

Danielle, what a cute pregnant girl!

Grandma can bowl!!!

Last Quick Catch Up--New Years 2009

2009-01-12T12:12:00.003-07:00

Again, no pictures. I am not sure what is going on or what I am doing wrong. HELP!!! But, since I am already here I'll fill you in on New Year's. Cindy & Russ came on Tuesday and Danielle & Steve came on Wednesday. We had a great time, Michelle was our "bar tender" and made us all very yummy "mocktails". We played Wii Fit, worked on a puzzle and had a great time together. When midnight came we got a little loud and apparently Sadie, our dog, didn't like it. She sat on Kevin's lap just shaking. Loud noises never used to bother her, maybe she is just getting old? Cindy and Russ had to leave on Friday so Russ could go to work. On Friday we went bowling. Mom said she hadn't been bowling in about. . .a long time! She did great and we all had a fun time. Mom, Michelle, Danielle & Steve all had to leave on Sunday.
I loved having everyone here, it was a great way to bring in the New Year!
Maybe I'll figure this thing out and get some pictures posted?!

Quick Catch Up--Christmas

2009-01-12T11:57:00.004-07:00

I was going to do my quick catch up with pictures, but for some reason, they didn't want to upload, so I only have one. It just might say it all though!
We had a white, snowy Christmas. Michelle came home on Saturday before Christmas and mom was supposed to come on Monday or Tuesday. Well the weather was crazy and she was pretty much snowed in. I was feeling kind of sad because I didn't want her to spend Christmas alone. Well, Wednesday morning we woke up and Kevin checked the weather and said if she left right now the roads look good. I called her about 7:30 am told her what Kevin said and she said she had been thinking about leaving and my call helped her make up her mind. She made it here safe and sound Christmas Eve!
The first Christmas we lived in Boise it snowed on Christmas Eve, but I can honestly say I haven't ever seen as much snow in Boise as we had during the holidays this year. It was fun as long as we didn't have to travel in it!
It was so nice having Michelle and my mom here.

Quick Catch Up--Anniversary

2009-01-12T11:53:00.002-07:00

Time sure goes by fast! I can't believe we have been married 25 years! 4 Kids, 1 dog, 1 son-in-law and almost grandparents!!! I have loved every minute of the past 25 years (mostly), and can't wait for the next 25!

Traditions

2008-12-15T08:10:00.003-07:00

I love traditions and I love my neighbors. But better than that is I love traditions with neighbors! For about the past 8 or 9 years we have gotten together with our neighbors to decorate gingerbread houses. We started out making our own gingerbread and icing, but since we have graduated to having a really great friend make the gingerbread and icing we we get to enjoy the decorating. Over the years we have had some different families, Martells, Grahams, Buzillinos, Doelmans and Ipsens, but there are always 3 constants--Moss, Johnson & Kartchner. The group has grown over the years, but this year we noticed a bit of a decline-- Danielle, Michelle and Nathan have all moved from home and weren't able to be with us for this fun tradition. We missed you guys.

The gingerbread "Parade of Homes"!

Kelsi...The Novelist

2008-12-04T11:00:00.002-07:00

At the end of October Kelsi came home and said that November was National Novelist month and that there was a writing club that she wanted to join so she could write a novel. I said "Great, sign up!" So she did. The goal for 6th graders is to write a 6,000 word novel. I knew it would be a big challenge, they couldn't start writing before November 1 and had to stop writing by midnight November 30. Kelsi & I figured she would have to write 200 words a day to complete her goal. She started out on fire, writing every day. By the last week of November (Thanksgiving week) the excitement had sort of worn off and she was slowing down. But we kept encouraging her. On Saturday at Grandma's she said she had 1,400 words to go and didn't think she could get it done. I told her if she really wanted it to just keep at it and she could do it. Then she asked if she did get it finished by Sunday night, if I would buy her a Build-A-Bear Penguin (her story was about penguins). How could I refuse? As you can see by the picture she finished her novel, got her certificate and her Build-A-Bear penguin. Her novel along with the others who finished will be published and put in her school library. WAY TO GO KESLI!!!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T10:36:00.006-07:00

I love Thanksgiving, and it isn't just because of all of the yummy food. Although that doesn't hurt! Thanksgiving at my own home is usually pretty quiet with just my immediate family. But the Saturday after Thanksgiving is when all of the fun happens. We all, my sisters their families and my mom, get together in Bancroft, Idaho to have a wondeful post Thanksgiving Dinner. It is really the only time all year we all are together, mom, sisters, husbands, kids, grandkids, neices and nephews. It is amazing to be a part of this wonderful family. There were 48 of us there this year and that wasn't everyone! We missed those who were not able to be there, I especially missed Kevin and Steven. They both had to work. Lava Hot Springs was just not the same without you! Getting ready at Grandma's before packing it all up to take to the church.
Luke, I love your eyes!

Russ, how is Kelsi supposed to hit the pinata?

Hallie and Kelsi

Sisters

Aiden (I hope the spelling is right) and Teresa

Cindy and Mia

The only picture I could get of Matt.

Thanks Mom for putting up with all of us!

We LOVE you!!!

Carving Pumpkin...

2008-10-30T14:20:00.002-06:00

Yes you read that right, pumpkin, uno, one. That is all we (Kelsi) did. And if it wouldn't have been for Kelsi we wouldn't have even carved one.

So Kelsi, this post is for you!

Great job!!!

ps...who needs to go to New England to see the fall colors? I have this right next door!

New England Cruise

2008-10-30T12:54:00.009-06:00

So this year is our 25th wedding anniversary (not until December) and we wanted to do something really fun for that occasion. Since traveling in December is kind of difficult, we decided to do a cruise out of New York. And we like to have others with us when we vacation, so we thought it would be fun to invite Kevin's parents to go with us. So this is a long picture post of our very fun cruise. We arrived in New York on Saturday afternoon to beautiful weather, considering when we left Boise it was a balmy 30 something degrees. New York was about 75. When we got there we took a cab to our hotel; taking a cab in New York is an experience in and of itself! I should have taken a picture of the stairway that led into our hotel, let me just say that it was pretty steep, and not only that, there were no elevators and we were on the third floor, Sorry Margaret & Gene:( . It was a bit of a work out, but we all survived.

We went to the play "A Tale of Two Cities". We weren't quite sure how it would be because it is a brand new play that just opened in September. The critics didn't like it so much, but the people's reviews were good. So we took our chances and we LOVED IT!

This is Kevin in the middle of a street market just off of Broadway. There were a ton of vendors.

On Sunday morning we had a while before we got on the boat, so Kevin and I ventured out and took a short walk to Central Park. It was such a beautiful morning and the park was so peaceful.

This was the first clock we saw when we got on the ship, and pretty much for the next 5 days that was how we felt!

Gene & Margaret ready for any 'mis' adventure!

The New York City skyline.

The beautiful Statue of Liberty. When we went by this the band started play "Proud to be an American" and it just gave me chills.

We were "freestyle" cruising so we didn't have to dress up. But we wanted to!

The harbor at Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Margaret & Gene up on the top of the double decker bus.

Kevin

Sandra with the guard in front of the Haifax Citadel. We saw him after the guard changed and he can smile.

Kevin on the grounds of the Citadel

We went to a glass blowing company and watched them blow some glass for a while then we went into the store. It was all beautiful crystal.

Sandra in front of the Maritime Museum. We found out about the great Halifax Explosion and I think we found some of my ancestors who were killed in that explosion. I'll have to have Teresa check on that.

St. John, New Brunswick, Canada

Me by the Reversing Rapids. Actually the rapids are to my left, and behind a rock!

If you look real close you can see me, Margaret & Gene up on our balcony on the 11th deck.

Boston, Mass. Mike's Pastry. What more do I need to say?

Margaret & Gene in front of Fanuiel Hall in Boston

Gene, with "Old Ironsides" aka The USS Constitution, in the back ground

We took a harbor curise in Boston and this was the boat we went on.

Our last stop of our cruise was Martha's Vineyard. In the city of Oaks Bluff is this little "village" of these gingerbread house cottages. I think there was about 300 of them. Cindy would love this!

Margaret & Gene

Just thought this was cute.

Love this picture.

The tree on Martha's Vineyard that had fall colors!

Thanks Kevin for a wonderful anniversary trip and thanks Margaret & Gene for going and putting up with us!!!

Also, Thanks to my mom for coming to Boise and staying with Matt and Kesli so we could go.

love ya!

IT"S WAY PAST TIME FOR AN UPDATE! #2

2008-10-30T12:14:00.007-06:00

So, I had a little technical difficulty finishing this on my last post. That is why this is #2.

Danielle, Steve & Michelle came for conference weekend. I love having all of my kids home. We decided that it would be a good time to take some pictures. So below is a sampling of our family picture taking time. Danielle & Kelsi

Kelsi being a "charger"?

Matthew

Michelle

Steven & Danielle

The family

Helping with the ICSF rummage sale.

Shay and Kelsi did their best at selling brownies! Nina, Jackson and Matthew helping collect all the money we raised!

Thanks for all of your hard work!

IT"S WAY PAST TIME FOR AN UPDATE!

2008-10-30T11:55:00.007-06:00

In September, Kevin, Mattew and I went to McCall to Liz's wedding reception. Sorry for the bad picture, Liz and Margene both looked beautiful! I don't have any pictures of Kevin & Margene together. I thought this one turned out pretty good.

TIME OUT FOR WOMEN

In September I went to Time out for Women, in Logan, with my mom, Cindy, Becky and Teresa. While we were there we ran into Patty and Kathy. It was a really great week end. We had a great time eating, learning, eating, shopping and did I mention eating? Thanks for a fun time!

A New School Year

2008-08-26T16:52:00.003-06:00

Kelsi and her best friends!

Matt & Kelsi started a new school year on Monday. They both were experiencing "firsts". Kelsi-middle school; Matt-high school. We are looking forward to a good year!

Summer Fun

2008-08-26T16:07:00.002-06:00

We had a really fun and busy summer.

Here are some of the highlights.

Kartchner Family Reunion

Steve and Matt at Herrick "pond"

Kelsi, Matt & Steve playing cards at our friend's cabin

Look at those River Rafters! Grandma's first white water at 74 years young!

Danielle was with us, she was taking the picture.

Kevin & Michelle on the Halker's dock in McCall, Idaho.

It was great having Danielle & Steve come and spend some time with us. Michelle didn't do the cabin and white water trip with us, but it was great having her home last week for camping, boating and Starlight.

Kelsi's Work is Done

2008-07-07T17:01:00.003-06:00

For quite a while (at least a year) Kelsi has wanted to re-do her pink room. It has been a slow process. Gradually getting bedding and other things. Well we finally did something! When we remodeled our bathroom, we had our friend who did our closet also do closet organizers for Matt & Kelsi's rooms. (Sorry I don't have a picture). Well that got me going on getting Kelsi's room painted, since I had her closet cleaned out, I decided I might as well get it painted. Well you know, one thing leads to another and we did get her room done. She helped with "cutting in" all of the corners and the baseboards. She really worked hard. The reason this post is titled "Kelsi's work is done" is because of a telephone conversation she had with her dad the day we painted her room. It went something like this:

dad: Hi Kelsi

kelsi: Hi dad!

dad: tell mom I'm done with work and I'm on my way home.

kelsi: well, I'm done with my work too!

So here are the results of Kelsi's work

Nice job of cutting in
Well you can't do this standing up!
Working hard
The finished product!

Matt is 14

2008-07-07T16:52:00.003-06:00

He has wanted a suit for about 2 years!
My two handsome boys
A new set of golf clubs
Need I say more?
Blowing out the birthday candles on a Cookies & Cream ice cream cake. YUM!!!

I am a little late on the birthday post.
Matthew wasnt't the only one with a birthday in June. Michelle & I also celebrated, but with no pictures to show for it!

PAINTING GRANDMA'S HOUSE

2008-06-20T21:45:00.003-06:00

We went last saturday and painted Grandma Munro's house. It was going to be just Kevin, Matt, Kelsi & me. But during the week I had talked to Danielle and she said her and Steve would love to come and help. Then I talked to Michelle, and she was feeling a little home sick and wanted to come home. I told her we weren't going to be there, but would be painting grandmas! Michelle (I loved the saying on the shirt, so true!)
Just getting started. Everyone helping.
Matt, Steve, Michelle
Matthew
Of course, there had to be a little down time too!

With everyone helping the work went quite quickly. We finished in about 4 hours. The saying "Many hands make light work" was really proven.

Thanks everyone for your help!

All Done with Elementary!!!

2008-06-11T17:00:00.003-06:00

On June 1st Kelsi had her 5th grade performance and Promotion. They did awards such as perfect attendance, academics and such. Well we were a liitle surprized when they called Kelsi's name for the American Citizenship Award. We didn't know she was going to be getting any awards. We were very proud of her and she was very excited. After thinking about it for a while I remembered a conversation I had had with her teacher about a month before. In the elementary they have "Awesome Ambassadors" which are awards that the kids can work towards in any area they choose, art, science, math, citizenship, etc. Well Kelsi had worked hard and recieved an "Awesome Ambassador" earlier in the year but was under the impression (as was her teacher) that you could earn more than one. So, as most of you know she wanted to help raise money for the International Children's Surgical Foundation and did it at school and was working on a second "A.A." in citizenship. Well the conversation I had with her teacher went something like this.

Mr. Williams: Kelsi is a little upset today.

Me: Why, what is going on.

Mr. Williams: Well, she found out she wouldn't get the narrator part for the 5th grade program, and also, she can't get two "Awesome Ambassador" awards.

Me: Really?

Mr. Williams: Yeah. I feel really bad about that because I know she worked very hard to raise the money. I really want to do something to recognize her.

Me: That would be great. Thanks.

Well, Mr. Williams came through. He was such a great teacher and really looked for the kids strenghths.

Way to go Kelsi!!!

GIRL'S TRIP!!!

2008-06-09T17:15:00.015-06:00

Michelle, Ramazan (our head waiter) & Danielle

Danielle, Cornell (our assistant waiter) & Grandma

Grandma Munro by our Puerto Vallarta city tour bus

Michelle & Her favorite waiter, Ramazan

Michelle's dessert menu thanks to Ramazan
If you can't read it it says "Everything!"

Having some chips in Mazatlan

A great purchase "$1 off!"

Enjoying Pina Coladas (Yummy!)

Grandma, Danielle & Michelle--Cabo San Lucas

Who is the guy in the back?
Danielle & Michelle on the pool deck

Grandma Munro & Danielle
Dinner Time
Roscoe & Michelle

On May 25 to June 1 the older girls (grandma Munro, Danielle, Michelle & Sandra) took a very fun Mexican Riveria Cruise. We had seven days of FUN, FUN,FUN!!! Grandma loved it because she had never been on a cruise before, Danielle loved it because it was a great beginning to her summer, Sandra loved it because I just love a vacation and Michelle loved it because. . .she met some really fun people, right Michelle?! Here are a few pictures of our very fun week.

GRADUATION!!!

2008-04-30T14:56:00.003-06:00

YEA!!!
GRANDMA MUNRO
THE FAMILY
GRANDMA & GRANDPA KARTCHNER

What a proud moment to be a mom!

Congratulations, Steven and Danielle!

Sweet Stitches!

2008-04-23T21:33:00.002-06:00

Before

After

At least that is what Michelle says. Yesterday she had her trademark eyelid mole removed. Now she has some "sweet stitches", but in a week or two she will have a beautiful mole-free eyelid. If you notice she also had her mole on her nose removed.

A New Smile

2008-04-20T22:07:00.003-06:00

After being away from the orthodontist for almost...um....I don't know 9 or 10 years. Okay, maybe not that long when you consider expanders and retainers, but it has been some time since regular visits! We are now back on track. Kelsi got her braces put on Wednesday and will have them for about a year and a half.

To keep her brushing and flossing, we have the great picture of "good dental hygiene vs bad dental hygiene" stuck up on the bathroom mirror. It worked for Danielle and Michelle, I'm hoping for the same results from Kelsi!

This is a picture of Kels the day after she got them on. She was in as much pain as she looks!!!!

The Last of Spring Break Pics

2008-04-03T11:20:00.004-06:00

While we were on the "party boat" Kevin saw an old friend that he had done his residency with in San Antonio. Apparently there was an anesthesia conference going on on the cruise.
Kelsi & Matt
Sandra & Kevin
Matt & Kelsi playing in the hammocks before the show
Our own "James Bond". Handsome, isn't he?!

That is our room he is standing by.

More from Spring Break

2008-04-03T11:11:00.003-06:00

Blake, Matt & Mason
Peyton, Kelsi, Brielle, Brianna & Brenna, playing in the pool at the condo while we were waiting for lunch
Kelsi & Matt--Puerto Vallarta
Kevin & Matt
Matt & Kelsi enjoying their pina colada on the "party boat" on the way to the "Rhythms of the Night"

I noticed the beach pictures only had the Halker kids so I added some with the Davidson's.

Spring Break Suprise!

2008-04-03T10:42:00.003-06:00

Matt & Kelsi with their "suprised" happy faces
Getting a head start on the ice cream
Kelsi & Peyton
Matt & Mason
Kevin in a little town in the hills above Mazatlan

Kevin doesn't always get spring break off, but this year he did and we wanted to do a fun vacation with Matt and Kelsi. We had some friends who were going to their condo in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and had said if anyone wanted to come it could be really fun. Well Kevin checked air fair and the cost for us to stay at the same condo, and it was really pricey. Then he decided to look and see how much it would cost for a cruise to Mexico. Well needless to say, the cruise was a lot more cost effective. The fun thing was that the cruise was going to stop in Cabo.

Well I thought it would be fun to keep it a secret from Matt and Kelsi. The problem was that we had to go get their passports and when you get a passport they ask where you will be traveling, so I said Mexico. Matt and Kelsi immediately assumed we were going with our friends, but I assured them that we weren't, that we were going to San Diego (the ship was leaving out of San Diego) and maybe we would go across the border to Mexico.

I had to keep this little "secret" for many months and it was a little difficult. But I did it. Some of the friends (little) found out we would be in Mexico and told Kelsi, but I assured her that her friend was mistaken. I am pretty sure Matt and Kelsi knew something was up because every time they made a suggestion as to what we could do in San Diego, I would say, "That's a good idea, we'll have to see".

Well the day finally came and we flew to San Diego, we got into the taxi and the kids didn't hear where Kevin told the driver we needed to go, so when we pulled into the port where the cruise lines were, they asked what we were doing there, I said we were just going for a little drive by the ships and they said, "We can do that?" I said, "Sure." Well, they were pretty excited when the cab driver got out, opened his trunk and unloaded our bags!

I was tired of keeping the secret and they were loving life!

We had such a fun time and we did get to stop in Cabo and spend the whole day with the Halker's and Davidson's. The kids loved the beach and sunshine.

We also stopped in Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta.

Bathroom Update

2008-04-03T10:33:00.004-06:00

So it has been a while since I have updated. Things in the bathroom remodel move slowly. So not a lot to show. But we now have tile (some) and a vanity. Still waiting patiently for the heated floor, so the tile can be laid on the floor. They say "maybe next week".

Entertainment Center

2008-03-11T10:41:00.002-06:00

Not only are we remodeling the bathroom but I decided I really didn't like the hole in my wall where we had our tv. It really is not a "hole" but a closet with pocket doors that I just really disliked. Anyway, while Kevin was in the Philippines I had a friend design a build my new entertainment center that I LOVE. We are just waiting to get the final doors for the top, but that should be happening this week. This for you Danielle & Steve!

The carpet is now tucked and no longer up on the bottom.

The Mirror

2008-03-11T10:33:00.003-06:00

The mirror was going to be a challenge to get out because it was so big and glued to the wall. But the glass guy came with a really cool suction thing and was amazingly enough, able to get it down in one piece instead of shattering it.

New Tub and Shower

2008-03-11T10:29:00.003-06:00

This is the framing for our new "jetted" tub. I can hardly wait to relax in it!

Also, the framing for our walk-in tiled shower. No more calking to get the lovely black mold!!!

No More Shower

2008-03-11T10:18:00.001-06:00

So these picture now may come up backward, but eventually I get this figured out!

Week 1 of Remodel---DONE

2008-03-11T10:08:00.003-06:00

We have finished up the first week and a lot has change in the bathroom. I tried to post some pictures a couple of days ago and it wasn't working so I hope this works today. It hasn't been too bad. It is actually quite interesting to imagine what it will look like.

Things with the computer are working a little slow so each picture will be a new post.

Day 1 Demo Day!

2008-03-05T16:03:00.001-07:00

Okay, so demolition actually started on Monday, I just a little behind. It is really exciting to see all of the stuff coming down and out. The shower was my most unfavorite spot in the bathroom. So when that came out I pretty much jumped up and down with joy! It is a little crazy and a little inconvenient, but I think I can live with it for now, knowing what I have to look forward to.

The Bathroom Remodel

2008-03-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

The remodeling has begun. Here are a few before pictures. It has been an adventure and I know we have a long way to go! Things so far are going pretty smooth, but I am sure there is some glitch out there just waiting to happen.