December 27, 2023

 Bryson finished his one week service at the Temple and headed for home. I started feeling sick later the day he left and for the next 24 hours I was having some real problems. I wasn’t sure if it was food poisoning or if I had a flu bug. Biglers came to visit me Friday evening and bring me a gift. After their visit things started to improve for me but out of caution I arranged for Marie Cruikshank to work my Temple shift for me on Saturday. By Saturday I was feeling better and guilty about not being in the Temple but probably needed time to get back on my feet. 

Christmas Eve fell on a Sunday and I was now feeling confident in going to church. Linda Rolfson was visiting and sang ‘O Holy Night’. Beautiful. Nice to see her and others and have a little visit. Cindy had me over for her lovely Shepherd’s dinner in the evening. They have been renovating their living room and it is beautiful. They also had new furniture and so all was a surprise for me. They are excited about their creation and I am happy for them. 

Christmas Day arrived and I realized that it was the first Christmas I had ever awakened all alone. I had made my orange rolls and Cindy made soufflé and they arrived later that morning along with Ross and Sarah to have presents and Christmas breakfast. They went back to their place to open more gifts there and rest before returning to have turkey dinner here. While they were gone I did the turkey, stuffing, brussel sprouts and finished the layered salad. I was tired by now and when we all confronted the food later I felt overwhelmed and could hardly eat. Cindy kindly helped divide and pack the food up. I think I need to improve and simplify in the future. We just don’t have as many to feed now. 

I have been cleaning up the last couple of days and relaxing a bit. I think I may have had the wind knocked out of me with my sick spell but I have had a lovely Christmas Season with  neighbors, friends and family being so good to me. The children have all kept in touch with me. Joanne and I have been in touch. Kind messages, cards, floral arrangements and gifts have come and I appreciate everyone and all that has been done. 

The Burgess family spent Christmas at Big White ski mountain with Brendon’s family. They celebrated their own Christmas before Brendon’s family arrived. Liza has a difficult time with the pressure of being all together but she loved their own family’s time together. The Bull and Walker families remained home. Zach was with Monica’s family and Justin and JayLynn with JayLynn’s family but JayLynn was having a bad day and ended up in hospital. I am so concerned for her and I am praying. Max and Jacqui were with her family. I love them all.

I love my Savior and I love this time of year when we honor his birth. I loved Christmas when I was little and I just knew that baby represented in our nativity set was the Savior of the world. I think that is where and when my testimony took root. I love him.

I miss my boy and he is part of all I do and all I feel. I love him too.

December 17, 2023

 I am having trouble keeping up with a weekly blog the last weeks. I have Bryson with me this week serving in the Temple. He was able to receive his Patriarch Blessing and then make arrangements with the Temple Presidency to serve. They have had him doing the morning shifts since Wednesday and then the afternoon shift with me on Saturday. I also served Friday morning with him, subbing for Diana Baker while she took Diane Andrews to the cancer clinic at the Abbotsford Hospital. Bryson and I have done shopping for his mission and taken missionary pictures of him outside the Temple but he wants N’Leah to take other ones when he comes down with her and her family December 29 for her to receive her OE. He has gone to Institute on Wednesday evening and to the YSA branch today for church. We have kept him busy and He has done well at the Temple and I think enjoyed it. He is planning on returning home on Thursday as they leave for their Christmas at Big White on Saturday.

Trevor had shoulder surgery on Friday and passed out as they were prepping him with a spinal bloc. They were concerned as his blood pressure dropped and they thought he coded and/or had a small heart attack.  His ECG was not right either but they carried on with the surgery once he was stable. They are checking into it further and having him see a cardiologist. I worry about all he has put his body through during his life and want him to take better care of himself. I am praying.

We had the ward party last night and they decided to have grandmothers as the angels so Maureen Fairbairn and I were the angels in the frame of the Picture a Christmas nativity production. When Bryson and I went over pick out my costume for it on Thursday evening, the YW were eating Chinese food and offered us some so we had our dinner there.

Cindy, Paul and Sam to me to the VSO movie night of the Home Alone movie on Wednesday evening. The Symphony plays to movie music while you watch the movie. I loved it but was shocked with popcorn, pop and audience talking and cheering etc. Not like any symphony I have been to at the Orpheum Theatre but I loved the movie and the symphony. That was my Christmas present and I loved it.

Had my Telus box replaced and my TV is working better. It was very outdated I guess. I delivered Christmas plants to Biglers and the Lai family. Had a quick visit with Joshua Lai and a longer visit with Pamila and David. Delivered nuts to my neighbors, the Harveys and finished my Temple prep class with my ladies and gave them nuts. Melissa and Phil Harvey had me along with Cindy’s family for dinner last Sunday evening and that was very nice. We really had a good time. I carry on working my Saturday shifts at the Temple and attend the Temple for myself on Tuesday mornings. Colton celebrated his 7th birthday on December 15. Our cute youngest.

I am slow doing the blog but I have been busy and all is good. My family and others are so good to me. I am blessed. Miss my boy but blessed.

December 5, 2023

 A lot has happened since my last blog but if truth be told I thought I had written regarding my trip to Tennessee. I worked hard getting my Christmas shopping done and my house decorated before I set out for Thanksgiving with Trevor’s family. I left early in the morning on the 21st so we got the dog situated at Cindy’s the night before. Dear Paul got up very early and drove me to the airport and I was at my gate in plenty of time. My route sent my thru a Dallas and a lengthy stop but I kept myself busy and had something to eat and a good walk around. Trevor was waiting for me at the Nashville airport and said Justin and JayLynn were arriving in twenty minutes so we gathered my luggage and had a good visit while we waited for our little family. Treyson was excited to see his Papa and we all gathered up and got home where Tammie had some food ready for us. Tired and I think we all slept well. Tammie had the house decorated beautifully for Christmas with just her trees left to be done. Trevor drove to Knoxville the next day to pick up gym equipment and Tammie and I drove Trey to a footfall practice and then did some Christmas mailing for me and grocery shopping for Tammie and stopped to look at a ladies store too. We did some cooking that day but Thursday was Thanksgiving and most of us got involved in the marathon of cooking that went on as we watched the parade in New York and that transitioned into watching football. I enjoyed visiting with the family. JayLynn was doing well as she is on steroids right now and getting ready to start a new treatment. Jadyn seemed to be doing good with her school, work and life plans. Trey’s girlfriend was away so we had a little more Trey time. We had a lovely meal at the conclusion of all the preparations and it was fun to be together. Watched a movie. I gave Trevor’s family their gifts to open on Christmas Friday morning and Justin, Jaylynn and Treyson opened theirs that day. Tammie and Trevor drove me back to the airport around lunchtime and I caught my plane home retracing my previous flight route. Cindy and Paul were there to pick me up at the airport and had my dog all settled back at home. Quick but lovely trip and I had a good time. Tired and had a sub at the Temple so took Saturday to regroup and pick up groceries. Home for Christmas now.

I started last week with a doctor’s appointment to check my finger and a PT appointment for my back and neck concerns. Rosemarie had suggested a new hairdresser that I visited on Wednesday. I gave the dog her bath on Thursday and taught my Temple Prep lesson here at the house again that evening. Did some baking that day too. 

Cindy called me early Friday morning to tell me that Sam had been in a car accident on the way to seminary. As our understanding of situation unfolded we realized that miracles had been involved and Sam was safe and okay despite the fact that things could have turned out very differently. He was turning left on the green arrow at 88th and 208 when a Ram pickup ran the light and hit him on the driver’s side spinning his car 180 degrees so he ended up facing east. Suddenly John Merryman, a traffic policeman from our ward, was there with him recognizing who Sam was and evaluating his situation and taking witness testimonies and gathering information. When Sam called his parents he was able to tell Cindy that John as with him and that calmed her heart. Paul got there soon afterward and was shocked to see all the emergency vehicles and the condition of their car. Sam seemed okay but was taken to the hospital by ambulance for an evaluation. The truck driver was saying he had the green light but John Merryman’s retrieval of the light camera information showed differently and John said he would testify himself if needs be as he was in the car next to Sam at the intersection. The whole family was shaken and took the day off. I feel Tom near many times and he let know that he was there with Sam and that Sam had been surrounded by many angels. Grateful for all the miracles involved.

It was Stake conference weekend and Cindy and Paul were involved in early meetings, meals and such as they had a general authority visitor. After my Saturday Temple shift I drove out for the Saturday evening meeting with Marilyn Rolfson. I drove out with Melissa Rolfson Sunday morning and home with the Bishop. Sam drove with the Bishop too as Cindy and Paul had a lunch to attend. Paul gave an excellent talk Saturday evening on creating a heavenly home. Julie sang and that is always a treat. Good conference.

I have begun another week with sorting out a busy upcoming Saturday of living ordinances and then attending the Temple today as I usually do and picking up groceries on the way home. 

My life is busy and as I have said, busy is good for me. Heavy rains yesterday and had to literally drag the dog out. I was concerned about flooding it was so bad behind our house. 

Trying to get things done Tom would be doing and I am washing and ironing all  his shirts to be made into a quilt. I am going to wash five a week. My heart is aching but I am trying. Some days are worse than others. ❤️❤️

November 20, 2023

 Ready for my trip to Tennessee and waiting for Cindy to come pick Kona up. Paul is going to drive me early in the morning. It will be a quick trip and I have packed all their Christmas gifts. I am taking very few clothes to save space. I will have an empty bag coming back.

Bryson and his friends came to stay the day after Rissa and her friends left. They were on a road trip to Seattle. A very bad wind and rain storm was starting when they arrived and blew thru much of the night. Power went out in some areas but thankfully our power remained on. It left a lot of leaves in the yard. 

Saturday the 11th I did my shift at the Temple and then went to visit Tom at the cemetery as it was Remembrance Day. Cindy and family went to my parents graves and then to Tom’s. It was getting dark and rainy when I arrived at Fort Langley but glad I as there.

Cindy and family came over on Monday as it was a holiday and helped me get my Christmas lights up outside. I have started back to the PT for my neck and shoulders and I think it is helping. I didn’t help myself though by doing all my Christmas shopping - at Roots in Guilford - on one day. I looked at all the bags and said, “I cannot carry all of those.” I did carry them but in instalments. I have also been working an my Will and have that complete and just need Cindy and Liza to sign the executors and power of attorney. I spoke at a Stake Primary event this past Sunday evening to the children advancing to YMYW and preparing for to enter the Temple. I love to see the Temple and love to talk about the Temple. I have started on my Christmas cards as well and put all my decorations up on Friday, November 17. It has been a busy time on every level. Mary Harvey invited me to luncheon to celebrate Virginia Tower’s birthday and that was nice to be part of too.

Now on to Tennessee and the rest of the holidays.

November 10, 2023

Larissa, her friend Courtney and Courtney’s Nana have been with me here this week. They were celebrating Nana’s birthday with a visit to Canada and an opportunity to visit with Nana’s good friend Jean. They are both from England and have been friends for years. It has been a busy four days with their arrival on Monday, a meal out with Cindy’s family that evening, then a visit with Jean in Surrey on Tuesday while I attended the Temple and we had a meal here that evening. I made soup. On Tuesday we went to Fort Langley and had High Tea at the Little White House, did some shopping then visited the cemetery. Jean came and picked Nana up for further time together and Rissa and Courtney went downtown to meet an old friend for dinner. I drove them back to the airport Thursday morning and spent the rest of the day catching up and cleaning up. I received a call from Bryson last night asking if he and some friends could stay over tonight on their way to Seattle, so more company on the way. I am blessed that I can accommodate everyone.

Life is challenging for all with wars raging around the world and wars raging in individual’s lives. I received word that Judi Johnson’s husband Ron died suddenly on Sunday and that Karen Shirley is in the hospital with some serious health concerns and heart surgery scheduled imminently. Everyone has personal trials. JayLynn’s health took a dip again and both she and Justin are discouraged and feeling down. Zach is taking awhile to get over his hockey concussion. I wish I could put my arms around all of them and assure that the angels are circling them and the Savior is walking right by them. 

I worked to have the Bull family Christmas ready for Rissa to take when she came and I must get things organized for the Walkers and the Burgesses before I go the Tennessee in just over a week and Kelowna as soon as I get home. I need to get the house ready for Christmas before I leave too. A busy week ahead.

Our Stake YW Presidency was released last Sunday as Cathy had been in for over four years and she has also been struggling with heart problems recently. It was a privilege to serve and it made me feel needed. It pushed me along when I needed a push. I still have my two Temple callings and teaching Temple Prep.

It is Remembrance Day tomorrow and we remember all the BRAVE and in our personal lives  it will be Remembering Mom and Dad. Their bravery and example has blessed our lives and continues to do so. I will also be REMEMBERING my brave boy.❤️❤️❤️

November 3, 2023

The fall or change of weather has really affected me and what appears to be arthritis pain. My hands, arms and back are really hurting and I have booked an appointment with the physio, hoping to at least help my back and neck. Now having said all this, I have been doing extra yard cleanup, moving deck furnishings and using the hand trimmer to cut all my plants back. I no longer have the grass to care for but I do have leaves, gardens and plants. It is annoying as you age because you used to be able to do all these things, plus more, with energy and stamina.

I am trying hard to be independent and not have to call on others for assistance. Early last Monday morning my fire alarm began to beep and realizing that I had no fire concerns, I tried to ignore it, however the dog could not. She was distressed and I finally got up and took her for a walk in the dark and returned home to work on the problem. I got the ladder and thanks to Tom’s foresight in always having necessary batteries in the freezer for every need, I managed to make the battery change by MYSELF! I have to cheer for myself whenever I accomplish something that was normally not in my realm. I miss Tom in every way and am grateful everyday that he has put so many things in order for me and continues to bless me in ways I did not think enough about when he was here.

We celebrated Halloween on Tuesday and Kona handled it quite well. I held her when the doorbell rang and we handed out treats together. She got used to the fireworks that continued far too late. We had mobs of children and their parents on the street and well over 100 that received treats. I ran out of treats and turned my lights out but they still tried to ring the bell. 

We were asked as Stake YW presidency to come to see the Stake Presidency on Wednesday evening. We knew it was for release due to Cathy’s health concerns. President Officer had already released me a couple of weeks ago and failed to let them know before the invitation went out so I drove out to the Stake Center and Paul released me for the second time. The calling has been hard for me but it did bless me this past year when I needed to feel needed and I hope I did some good. It was fun being with grandchildren at activities.

I got all the washed and borrowed tablecloths back to their homes. Paul kindly took the Stake Center cloths when he went there for meetings. I have run thrift errands, changed my fall mums for pansies by the front door and got an array of pumpkins for the Halloween decor by the front door as well. I attended tithing settlement on Sunday, paid a chunk of tithing (always in advance) and took my material to the lawyer to redo my will. I have been talking to him and to Phil about some changes to be made. I have asked Cindy and Liza to act as my personal executors and Ross to act as executor for my two numbered companies. Cindy and I went to visit Melodie Richards  before her move to the Sunshine Coast. She worked for the funeral home when Tom passed and blessed us in great ways. I am so sorry to see her go but we are praying for her. I have also been getting ready for Lara Lyn’s visit next week.

I carry on but miss my precious, beautiful boy so much❤️❤️. Kona is with the groomer Gabriela.

October 26, 2023

 It has definitely been a busy week with church responsibilities. We have been trying to give Cathy a break  so that she can get her heart concerns under control. I think we have managed to do that. Marcy and I did Leadership on Wednesday evening and we had a pretty good turnout. We gave our presentation and then broke into two groups and allowed the ward leaders to discuss suggestions for activities and using FSY. Junki was there supporting us as he always does. I picked up tablecloths for the Senior Youth Conference. I had to gather tablecloths from Willoughby and Brookswood wards as well and we needed pretty well everyone of them.  The youth began to gather at Crash Crawly’s in Coquitlam Thursday evening. Rosa Harper drove Breya and three other girls down from Kelowna and went directly to the activity. They were tired and happy to get here afterward. We were up early and got to Temple View Chapel for breakfast. They got the kids fed and organized. My responsibility was to be with the FSY workshop where the missionaries, Gabby Burnham and President Engen participated. I introduced each of the four workshops with a brief talk and and explanation. We did two workshops in the morning and two in the afternoon. They youth had Temple options and other workshops throughout the day too. We worked with youth and got our dinner tables set and decorated. We had over 200 youth registered so it was hard work to get ready. Our dinner crew had a lovely roast beef dinner prepared and we all helped serve it after I gave a brief etiquette presentation before they ate. After cleanup I took the tablecloths and went home to my puppy. Others washed the dishes. I had in been home during lunch to take her for a walk as well. Rosa helped us with the dinner and then came home too and we visited at until the dance was over, at which time we both drove back to pick the girls up. I drove the girls back in the morning and Rosa had a break and slept in. I got ready and set off for my Temple shift and Rosa got ready and picked the girls up and set out for home. I think they had a good time and the conference went well. Surrey Stake had headed the multiStake event. My grandchildren - Breya and Sam - are so kind having their grandmother at their youth events. I started washing the 25 tablecloths Saturday evening. Oh boy!

I had a Stake speaking assignment on Sunday at Maple Ridge and dear Myrna Olson came with me as my companion. I had prepared my talk in advance. We had a good time and Myrna did well. We had expected to be released on Sunday but were not so I assume the new presidency has not been fully called. Carry on.

Monday was exhausting. I finished washing all the tablecloths, did my cleaning, laundry and got my deck furniture ready for winter. I have been trimming plants outside for fall and raking leaves this week too. There are definitely more leaves to fall so it will be an ongoing project. I am teaching Temple Prep this evening at the church for Cherly and Tina. I have also been getting tablecloths back to their homes. 

I have booked flights to Trevor’s for American Thanksgiving and Elton’s Lake house for a week in the summer. Trying to take care of my business affairs and my callings and my family. Started shopping for Christmas. 

Blessed but busy!

October 19, 2023

Somehow I have missed updating my blog for nearly a month and was shocked when I saw the last date I had entered. Sooooo here goes with an overview of the last month in a nutshell.

The beginning of October we experienced General Conference. Kona and I listened to every session as we usually do in the household and it was wonderful. President Nelson had, had a fall just after his 99th birthday and was still recovering so watched from home and delivered his recorded talk at the end of conference and admonished all of us to “Think Celestial!” and follow God’s Fabulous Plan. The whole conference was outstanding as they always are. 

Thanksgiving was celebrated the second weekend of October and the Burgess family came down to be with us. We decided to have the dinner on Saturday. I got the turkey and the stuffing ready and bought a pumpkin pie then went to serve in the Temple. Liza and Brendon’s Ward did baptisms at the Temple in the morning and then the girls worked on the rest of dinner and I helped out more when I got home. We invited to sister missionaries too. Jean flew to Toronto to be with Cheyenne and Bryson is in Montreal working on the Temple for pre - mission work. After church on Sunday, Sayde stayed with me and the rest of her family drove up to the Cultus lake area to go for a hike. I had leftovers ready when they got home. On Monday morning Brendon went for a swim, Liza a run, Breya shopping and Keaton to the school to play basketball. Missy and I were home getting breakfast ready. We went for a Derby Reach walk with the Hardy family and then to the Hardy’s for pizza. I came home and the Burgess family headed for home and the Hardy family went as far as Chilliwack with them to have ice cream at their favourite ice cream spot. I was tired and needed to take care of the puppy too.

Cathy Combs, our Stake YW president, has experienced some heart problems and ended up in emergency twice. She has so much on her plate and is under a great deal of stress. We have a lots going on this month and we have been trying to keep her calm and carry on by ourselves. We had Stake training on the 18th and have the Senior Youth Conference this weekend and also Stake talks to give this month. Marcy and I did the training last night, I filled in for Cathy at a TriStake meeting regarding the conference and Marcy and I will do our parts at the conference this weekend. I will be billeting a Mom and group of girls from Liza’s ward, including Breya. I am giving my Stake talk on Sunday with Myrna Olson as my companion in Maple Ridge Ward. Prior to the TriStake meeting, as we were waiting online for it to begin, President Officer told me we would be being released this Sunday. Cathy has been in for over four years I believe and, with her health concerns, I think they are hastening things. The month has been full of preparations for leadership, the Tri Stake Conference and preparing my talk, as well as trying unsuccessfully to get together with my Temple Prep ladies for a lesson. I have made cookies and soup in advance for a supper I am to provide for a family whose new baby is to be born eminently. I have my two Temple callings as well and attend the Temple each Tueasdy morning. Cindy arranged for us to do sealings last Friday evening with Ross and Sarah and that was lovely.

The rain has been starting in earnest which the dog does not like and I have been trying to get a few things done for fall preparation outside. Brendon and Keaton trimmed the dogwood tree when they were here and I trimmed some plants in the front yard. I have got more trimming to do and furniture to winterize. 

Cindy had an upsetting week when Jack received an email from Sianne saying that she had heard that Cindy was telling everyone that she was going to get Jack and Sianne together again when he got home and that she, Sianne, had a serious boyfriend and did not want any trouble. When Cindy mentioned Jack in her YW lesson, one of the YW said she felt so badly about things as her cousin is the boy Sianne is going with. Cindy just tried to end the conversation by saying “Everything will be alright in the end.” We think the young woman misunderstood and was telling her family Cindy was going to correct the situation. Cindy wrote to Sianne to try to rectify things. Jack and Sianne’s relationship has caused him a great deal of upset on his mission and it hurts me that it is continuing to do so. He tries to put it behind him and move on and then something else comes up. We don’t want him hurt again when he comes home in a couple of months.

We have a busy weekend coming up and I hope I am prepared. That’s my update of the month. Busy but blessed!

Picture is of a stunned puppy when she knows she has to go out in the rain🙁

September 27, 2023

 I just reread the blog I posted over a year ago. It was written mainly for me and my family so we could remember all that had transpired around Tom’s passing and the sacred yet difficult experience that had been. It was and still is the most difficult experience of my life but it was also filled with miracles and a great deal of love. I have learned that great loss and pain can live side by side with peace and comfort. Life is a challenging experience but the Lord never ceases to love and support us on this bumpy path back to him.

I attended a Muir luncheon and information session last Wednesday held at the Morgan Creek golf course in the White Rock area. That was the first one I have gone to alone. I work pretty well daily on my church callings and I am getting ready to teach another Temple Prep series of lessons to two sisters in the ward. I review the Temple schedule regularly to check for upcoming live ordinances and then make the necessary LOW assignments. I attended the TriStake Youth dance held at our building on Friday evening and hosted by the Vancouver Stake. Dear Sam attends his youth dances with his grandmother there but he seems to handle it well. Fall has certainly arrived and I am trying to get my yard and outside prepared. It has been cool and raining and I have even turned the heat on. Robert Kearl referred me to a lawyer to help me rewrite my will and power of attorney. I have forms to fill in now for that to be accomplished. Kona is adjusting to the rain and cool weather and has been having some more accidents inside. Little scamp! Tammie and Trevor were out to visit Justin and JayLynn last week and JayLynn seems to be making some improvement. Max and Jacqui called as I was leaving the dance to inform me that they are expecting a BOY! They are excited and I am excited for them. Ross and Sarah have not formally announced their pregnancy yet and do not know what they are having. Zach and Monica are preparing to move to upstate New York for Zach to play hockey this year. Jack is nearing the end of his mission as Bryson prepares to leave. It has been a bit of an adjustment for Jack with his new mission president. I made muffins for Mary and Lincoln and Jean and I had the Hardy family for dinner on Sunday. We will do Thanksgiving here with the Hardy and Burgess families. This is my week in a nutshell so to speak. I attend the Temple every Tuesday morning and serve every Saturday afternoon. My days a generally full and filling.

September 20, 2023

 I talk a little about my feelings and how I am doing but today I thought I would elaborate a bit more. Tom’s passing has been and is the greatest loss and sorrow I have ever experienced in life. No one can fully explain it to one who has not gone thru it but perhaps also one has to have a Tom Walker in their life to completely understand. He is special and unique and I have never met a man who could, in my eyes, compare. I am certain there are couples who love each other as much as we do but I do not believe anyone can love each other more. I have been so blessed in this regard and I have always been fully aware of it. I still and will always feel, during this earthly life, a tremendous loss but along side it I also feel a tremendous peace and comfort knowing that even this will pass and we will be together again. As Alma and his people who were under bondage in the Book of Mormon, my burden has not been removed but my shoulders have been strengthened to carry the load. In true Tom form I am fully aware of his concern and his love and even now he is never far from me and I in turn pray for him always in the work he has been called to do. We are still a companionship and developing our relationship on another level. I am so grateful to our children who supported and loved us in great ways and literally ran to us to carry us thru this sorrowful and sacred time even when their own hearts were heavy. Tom wanted them to know of his love for them and his love for the Savior before he left and they showed Christlike love in return. We have marvellous children and grandchildren and we want to claim them for eternity. Eternity, eternity and blessed future day when we will all be together again! 

This week has been full of my callings, my family with Bryson popping in after a trip to the Temple with his friends and celebrating Ross’s birthday with dinner at Cindy’s on Sunday and full of friends with Sandra returning dishes and bringing me muffins, Mary sharing her cancer challenges and Jean sharing dessert and personal worries with me. Sharing, caring and serving one another, that is what life is all about.

I got the car washed and serviced this week and helped the Hardy family distribute bags for the BC food drive, an event which Tom helped get going first in the Vancouver Stake, then the community and finally all of BC. His influence is still being felt by many and especially by me.

September 13, 2023

 Fall is here with a few cooler days but we are still in need of rain as we are really in drought conditions. This day started cool but has warmed up considerably.

I am always busy with my church callings. We had a Moroni’s Quest fireside reunion on Sunday evening and I went to Costco and bought over 200 individual chocolate milks for that event. I trained Brenda Molnar on Thursday evening as a LOW at the Temple and I taught Cohen his last Temple Prep lesson on Sunday and he is now waiting for his mission call and is ready to go to the Temple. I love all my callings and I don’t want releases from them. 

I have been trying to clean up the falling leaves that are starting now off my artificial turf which is a different experience. I have partly trimmed my dogwood tree but I need help doing the upper branches that are a little beyond my reach.

I was desperate for a hair cut as Trish has a frozen shoulder and it is not getting better, so after my Temple session on Tuesday, I stopped at Great Cuts and got a cut there.  I feel much better and she did a pretty good job. Kona on the other hand went to Gabriella on Monday for a grooming and looks beautiful. No trouble getting her done. 

I had trouble with my car on Saturday when I came out of the Temple. My phone would not open it and I could not find my key card. Rosemarie drove Mary and I home and, once there,  I went more thoroughly thru my wallet and found the card. Rosemarie drove me back for my car but it continued to need the card for being put in gear. I stopped by Tesla on my way to get the car washed and they fiddled with the phone and it is working now. I am getting the car serviced tomorrow.

Everyday seems to fill up and life goes on. Mary called me today to tell me that her cancer is back. I will pray more fervently for her. She is a dear friend. Life has its challenges all along the way. I am grateful for better days ahead.

September 3, 2023

 Liza and family left for home later this afternoon. I was happy to have them visit again. Brendon, Bryson, Keaton and Sayde arrived Friday evening as Liza was working that day and Breya at a friend’s home. The two of them came down Saturday morning with some other ward members for youth baptisms. Brendon took Bryson over to The Distribution Center in the morning to acquire Bryson’s Temple clothes and garments. I got Sayde showered and dressed ready for baptisms and insured Keaton as ready, then walked the dog before leaving for my Temple Shift. Liza met Brendon in the parking lot and they went back for the younger children. I had a break and was able to slip down to the baptistry in time to see Keaton help Sayde into the water after Sam had baptized him, then watch Sam perform the ordinance with Sayde and Breya assist her out of the water before Sam baptized Breya. What special grandchildren! Brendon and Bryson then left with Brother Streibel to prepare Bryson for his endowment. Ted had driven down and was staying with George and Bev. Just before the session for Bryson was to start, Ted began having heart problems and they got him down resting in the Bride’s room. I had asked to be the sister OW on the session so I could be with everyone. Cindy, Paul, Ross, Sarah, Bev, George, Liza and Brendon were there for Bryson. It went well and Ted met us in the Celestial Room at the end. We had everyone over to our house afterward for pizza except Bryson who flew immediately out to Edmonton to spend the week with friends and George, who had to work on his SS lesson for the next day. We went to church today and I taught Cohen his Temple Prep lesson with his Dad. After dinner and the family zoom the Burgess family left for home. I always feel lonely after the children leave.

August 26th was our 23rd wedding anniversary and the children were very kind - the girls all sending messages and Trevor and Tammie calling. Cindy brought some flowers over for me too. They are so good trying to fill in for their father and helping me thru difficult days. I was blessed with an amazing husband and he still is influencing my life everyday. I feel him near and I am grateful for that. He left me amazing children too. 

I was surprised when I returned from the Temple on Tuesday, after a session and then giving Sister Clarkson some specialized LOW training for our Spanish upcoming sealing, when I was upstairs changing and heard someone in the house. It turned out to be Cindy and Sam. Their complex’s water system was cut off suddenly and she and Sam were here to shower. Sam was already in the shower before I determined who was in my home. They had already been here earlier with their neighbor getting some water. All goes to show we need emergency preparedness.

Week went on with regular YW Zoom, other church callings, making cookies for kids coming and changing my summer flower pots to fall mums. Always busy and I know that is good for me.

August 25, 2023

 The summer has been busy, ever changing and flying by and as a result I have missed  recording another week.

I have been working on getting the boys through their Temple Prep classes and it has been a challenge. Bryson has completed all six lessons with our FaceTime meetings and Keidis completed his on Sunday, whereas Thomas has one more class (two lessons per class) and Cohen needs two more classes as he has only been with us once. Sorting it all out keeps my brain active. 

The Temple opened on Tuesday the 22nd and I was on the first session which was wonderful. With the opening we are now back at making LOW assignments and I have had some challenges and sorting to do with that. Judy Laurie will be receiving treatments for non Hodgkin Lymphoma for the next while and we have replaced the Laurie’s with Brenda and Rick Molnar. I will be praying for my friend. We had the OW devotional last Sunday evening and while there I learned that Wayne Lavender has been dealing with shingles. So many concerns. Mary told me that her blood tests indicate the return of cancer so she is getting more tests. I hope not.

I went to the Barbie movie with the Hardy family. It was not my favorite. I attended the Relief Society BBQ on the 16th.  Got the garage cleaned with the help of Cindy and Sam and hosted the Burgess family last weekend when they voluntarily evacuated Kelowna due to the terrible fires up there. The fires were in West Kelowna but jumped the lake to create some damage there as well. Many homes have been lost or affected. The airport closed and Brendon’s sisters were trying to get home so Courtney drove a rental car to Vancouver to catch her flight to Australia and Ted, Brendon, Liza and family brought Alyssa and her family down, pulling their bikes in a trailer behind one of the two cars and Alyssa’s group managed to catch their flight to Grand Caymans. I was happy to have them here and safe but Bryson refused to leave because of desire to attend a YSA activity. Oh, dear! Brendon painted sealer on my driveway and they took home our lawnmower and some other garage items. Bob and Pat were visiting Mandy and came up to visit me last Monday. We made an emotional trip to the cemetery to visit the grave. I so appreciated them coming so much and love our dear friends. Cheyenne left today to go back to school at Queens. Kona and I will miss her regulate visits. We had the TriStake beach activity last Saturday, August 19 at Cultus Lake and I took Breya and Keaton, as well as Kona, out with me. It was a busy day with a large turnout. I think the youth had a good time.

Jack had a sudden and unexpected transfer from his area while serving as Zone leader and he has had a difficult week but Sam health seems to be improving.  Ross and Sarah told us they are now expecting. So exciting! Justin and JayLynn are struggling as they find their way thru the minefield of life’s tragedies. The good, the bad and the ugly. Bryson works with his anxieties. I pray for them all. With family concerns and because of where Tom is now, I sometimes say to him, “This one is on you” and pray that Heavenly Father will allow him to be near our children in their struggles when I cannot.

❤️❤️Tom and I love them ALL!

August 13, 2023

 I am late writing the blog this time and I actually was forgetting as the week went on. 

Sam’s mysterious illness has continued. He was unable to eat without vomiting for a number of days and now he is able to get a little bit in, mainly fluids. He has been to emergency and received IV for hydration a couple of times. He has been to the doctor twice and also on the phone with her. He has lost a lot of weight and though we have improvement, we do not have recovery or a certain diagnosis. His bowels have been blocked up and probably causing the nausea. They have considered a virus, ulcer and today Cindy was suggesting a parasite. I am certain we will get it worked out but he is exhausted and so is Cindy. Ross came one day to try to lift his spirits. When he has been bad, he really hasn’t even wanted to talk, watch TV or do anything but he did play video games with Ross. We fasted for him last Sunday.

I have been teaching Bryson and working on teaching Keidis, Cohen and Thomas Temple Prep lessons. I teach Bryson on FaceTime and I taught Keidis one night at my place with the Sister missionaries sitting in and then Keidis and Thomas another evening. It is difficult to pin them down long enough during the summer to get them prepared for their Temple Endowment when the Temple reopens. They are all preparing for missions and three already have their calls so insuring they have some Temple time and experience before they leave on their missions is important. I am working at it. I taught Willoughby YW today for Cindy as she has been consumed with Sam and his needs. I took them dinner one night and I am taking the Hung Family dinner tonight as Junki’s wife is pregnant and very sick. I took Marie bran muffins this week as both her dogs have had medical procedures and they are taking things slow over there.

Jack and Jeannette returned from their Alaska cruise on Monday and took me out for dinner that evening. I made them bran muffins the next morning for breakfast before they left for home. Bran mufffins are Grandma Tanner’s recipe and Jack enjoyed them as his mother made them too and they reminded him of home. It has been nice having them spend time with me as they were coming and going and they enjoyed Kona too. Everyone loves her.

I drove out to Surrey to pay Stefan for the completion and placing of the headstone and to pick up the Temple granite on which they had carved REMEMBER - our family mission statement. I love it and have it sitting on the shelves by the fireplace.

The summer has been busy and flying by with still more to come but busy is a blessing for me and keeps me going.

August 2, 202

 The summer has been busy and last week was no exception. Moroni’s Quest was certainly a large part of the week. Jack and Jeannette came the first day and I returned home for their overnight stay and had a lovely visit and time with them. They got off on their cruise last Thursday and I remained home that day to get a few things done and have a break. Cindy helped with food at MQ that day and Paul play the part of Abinadi while Ross took several parts, including the character which scalped Elder Wolsey (they provided him with hair so he could be scalped). I left Kona on Friday and drove back up to the site. Cindy was home that day and came to take Kona out before her YW activity with the younger girls who were not involved in MQ. I arrived at the Price’s farm just after the arrival of the Savior. As I walked down to the area where the youth and leaders were gathered to greet the Savior I could tangibly feel the spirit. At this point the Savior was standing in the midst of them greeting them individually, hugging them and talking to them. The youth were visibly touched and President Engen, who was taking the part of the Savior, was very loving and kind. After the youth had greeted him, the leaders started going up and I went up too. He was so kind to me and called me by name. At the conclusion he called a number of youth to teach and minister to the others and they broke up into groups to allow that to happen. I went to Sam and Keaton’s group and made the comment that if they felt this way with someone representing the Savior, could they even imagine how they would feel when the real Savior comes. The whole event seemed to go well taking them thru the Book of Mormon with live actors, a beautiful Tree of Life night scene, 85 full time missionaries walking down the road toward them singing “Called to Serve”, battles in which they participated and then the coming of the Savior. They had an outdoor dance Friday night and participated in the conclusion of the Book of Mormon and the handing over of the plates to Joseph Smith Saturday morning before departing for home. The weather was perfect, the food good, injuries few, crafts and activities fun and hopefully we had youth leaving filled with the spirit. Success! A year of hard work and planning was blessed by the Lord.

Paul picked Keaton and Sam up at the Stake Center and brought them home. Keaton quickly packed up, ate some lunch and I drove him to the Abbotsford Airport to catch the bus home to Kelowna. He has done well selling some of my items online and making money and he also had the MQ experience.

Sunday, July 30th was Tom’s 75th Birthday and we as a family celebrated by doing a Random Acts of Kindness Day by putting on our Aloha clothes and doing acts of kindness which may or may not have included ice cream sandwiches (a favorite of Tom’s). Even Max and Jacqui, who have Australian winter weather wore their Aloha clothes. Everyone did things a little differently and that was great. It was fun as we thought of Tom and remembered the Savior. Tom would not have wanted the focus on him. We love him so much though and miss him. Angela Leemhuis wrote me yesterday to say that she visited Tom’s classmate Ara, who Tom referred them to years ago because of their special dental needs. Ara was talking about an upcoming class reunion and his hopes of seeing Tom. She informed him of Tom’s passing and they both cried and talked about what a special man Tom was. We all love and miss him.

My puppy had diarrhea again and we were up several times one night getting her outside. She is seeming to be much better now and is on a medication which perhaps is helping. I don’t know why this keeps happening. She seems happy and lively but never eats a great deal. I bathed her, her bed and blankets. I washed down the turf in the backyard too. Oh dear!

Busy times but busy with good things (even if they are puppy problems) and good people. Blessed!

July 27, 2023

 We started the week with much needed rain but the weather has improved and the long awaited for Moroni’s Quest TriStake activity has begun. Keaton stayed with me after Liza’s family returned home on Sunday following their family hike on the Island and Sayde’s Easter seal camp. He had received permission to join Moroni’s Quest and I took him to the Stake Center yesterday for registration and then Kona and I drove to the site location on the Price’s farm in Mission. The kids arrived in buses and after being fed lunch began their Book of Mormon Quest experience. I stayed until after the water activity game our Stake had planned was complete and then headed for home.

Jack and Jeannette flew in yesterday and spent the night with me before they set out for their Alaskan cruise. I had made chicken salad ahead for them so that I could get ready easily for dinner when I got home from Quest. We have had a nice time visiting and they took me for breakfast this morning in Fort Langley. We went to the cemetery too and walked around. They have left now and I am having a quiet day with the puppy.

Keaton has kept busy this week selling some of the things I don’t need. He has been selling on Facebook Marketplace and doing quite well. I have been letting him keep the money he makes so it is not a bad little job. He is going home on the bus Saturday after Quest concludes.

Cindy and Paul have kept Max and Jacqui busy right up until their departure yesterday for home. They have been to the Island, to Whistler and every other place on their list and to see everyone they had wanted to see. I had them for dinner on Sunday and also went with Cindy and Jacqui to an outdoor Shakespeare production put on in Langley while the men had a boys’ night. We are excited about their baby announcement and are praying for a safe arrival the end of February.

I have also been busy cooking and baking for everyone’s visits and cleaning in between guests. I love having them come. I am blessed with a good family,

July 20, 2023

 Most would think my life would be quieter, with not a great deal to fill my days but that is not the case and every week seems to be full to the brim. I actually think that is probably best and I have said that I believe Tom is whispering in everyone’s ears “Keep her busy!” Life would be harder if it were not so busy. I am also overwhelmed with everyone’s kindness and concern and feel I should be doing more for others. These are my thoughts of the week and pretty well every week.

I made lasagna ahead and fruit pizza before Liza’s family came on the weekend. Cindy and Paul took me to see the live performance at the Stanley of “The Carole King Story”. She has been a writer and performer of her own music over decades and most of her songs are well known to generations. It was fun to go. Max and Jacqui arrived later on Saturday for their summer visit and Cindy took them immediately to the outdoor symphony. I was able to see them on Sunday at church before they were off to spend time with the Hardy family. Liza’s family arrived later Sunday evening and we then had a late supper. On Monday we all went blueberry picking with the Hardy Family and then to A+W for lunch with them. Cindy picked up flowers I had asked her to order and we all then met at the cemetery where we had a family gathering to commemorate the placing of Grampa’s headstone. Liza played the Tabernacle Choir singing “Be Still My Soul” on her phone and Max offered a family prayer. They were all pleased with the headstone. We then ordered Chinese food and spent the evening at my home. The Burgess family left the next morning for a hike on Vancouver Island while Sayde does the Easter Seal camp on the island. Bryson received his mission call the day they left but doesn’t want to open it until this weekend so we are all waiting in anticipation.

Kona went to the groomer last Friday and to the vet for a follow up visit on Monday. She ended up getting some vaccinations too. 

I went out for lunch with Tanya and Judy Leemhuis on Tuesday. They drove out to take me for lunch and brought me a plant and some apricot cake. It was so kind of them and it was fun visiting and catching up. Cheyenne also needed a ride to her swimming class on Tuesday morning and I ran to the bank after as my credit card had been used fraudulently to purchase over $5,000.00 worth of merchandise at Crate and Barrel. I had cancelled my credit card on Monday, then got cash at the bank Tuesday and received my new card by courier Wednesday. So disconcerting! Tuesday was a busy day. 

I cleaned after Liza’s family left and have now made another lasagna for the Hardy family who will come for dinner this Sunday after Liza’s family leave for home. I need to prepare for Jack and Jeannette as well. They will come next week during our Moroni’s Quest TriStake Youth Event but I will take time away from the event for them. They are off on their Alaska cruise and will spend a couple of nights with me as they come and go.

 

Summer is busy, life is busy and it is all good.

July 13, 2023

 Justin is 27 years old today. Hard to believe that our eldest grandchild is that old. He and JayLynn bought a one level home in Saint George this week and are moving in this weekend. Family is helping them do both to get them into a home that is more permanent and easier for JayLynn to move around in. Trevor and Tammie have been with them this week helping them out. They have also been able to spend time with Jeff and Lisa Slarks and will have lunch with Bob and Pat tomorrow. Both couples are dear friends and I wanted them to know that Justin and JayLynn are living there in town. We are still praying for this little family and for JayLynn’s  recovery and long term health solutions.

Cindy, Paul and Sam took care of Sayde in Kelowna last week while the rest of the Burgess family participated in Trek. They arrived back home on Sunday. 

I spoke in the YSA branch on Sunday with Cheyenne as my speaking companion and she also sang “Day by Day”. I was concerned about my voice holding up as it has been a little problematic since covid. I had a long speaking time remaining for me but my voice miraculously held up. I wanted to introduce Cheyenne to the YSA and hopefully get her feeling comfortable about going. She did well and even read some of Tom’s words she had recorded from a blessing he gave her. I had no idea she had recorded that blessing and she said it blessed her again at school this past year when she was struggling and she found it on her phone. It touched my heart. I have been giving one talk a month for the last three months. I feel a little lost with no talk to prepare.

Max and Jacqui arrive this weekend and we planned on the headstone being placed on the grave while they were here, however, Stefan had it completed and it worked better for them and for the cemetery to place it yesterday so I went by myself to watch it placed. It is lovely and I am so pleased with it and I am so grateful to now have the grave beautifully marked. I have had a hard time with it left unidentified. We will still have our family gathering on Monday with a prayer, flowers and music. Liza and her family are coming too. 

I continue to handle my business affairs and church callings. I am trying to set up a time for Thomas, Cohen and Keidis to receive the Temple Prep lessons and we are getting ready for the TriStake Moroni’s Quest youth event the end of this month. Jack and Jeannette will be coming thru town on their way to their Alaska cruise and spending a couple of nights with me as they come and go. Kona is showing improvement from her bowel infection after her kennel experience and I am pretty well back to normal after my covid experience. It really was not too bad. All is well! All is well!

July 6, 2023

 It is my sister Joanne’s birthday. I called her this morning and found she was recently released from the hospital after having emergency surgery for a bowel blockage. I was so sorry to hear that because I had the same situation after my appendix surgery. It is so painful and you feel so sick. Unfortunately, Tom experienced it too during his last few months. She is fine now and feeling much better. I ordered her flowers and apparently they are a bit disappointing. She is sending pictures. I am sorry about that too.

Well my trip home last Thursday did not transpire. Tammie and Trey drove me to the airport, I checked in, checked my bag and went to my gate only find that due to bad weather, my flight was delayed for several hours and I would not make my connections so they rebooked me for early Saturday morning. The storm they were worried about came thru and they retrieved my bag when that settled down and luggage handlers were allowed back on the ramp again. Tammie returned to pick me up and I went back home with them. It is hard to be prepared to leave and then be turned around. I was starting to feel a little ill as well. Trevor had been sick all week with what he assumed was a cold. Liza was sick back home and Cindy had been trying to hold out all week and finish her work year. Cindy tested positive for covid, as did I after I eventually made it home. We have determined that we all had it. Obviously shared by someone during the wedding weekend. Jadyn was sick during the week but tested negative for covid.

On Friday Tammie and I dropped Treyvn off at his work and then did some Target shopping. Another big storm blew thru that evening again and I repacked and got organized once again. My Saturday flight was very early in the morning and I was grateful for that because the storms during the hot weather usually hit later in the day. The airport was very crowded but Trevor had me organized and I got thru and on my way to Las Vegas. I had a four hour layover there and thought of Justin and JayLynn nearby. Paul picked me up in  Bellingham as Cindy was now confined with covid. They had picked Kona up from the kennel Thursday evening and Sam had her at my house. I was tired, not feeling well but glad to be home. We did not attend church on Sunday.

Kona has had loose bowels with blood showing as well so I have been concerned about her too. We finally got to the vet today and have her on numerous medications. I hope we all get back on our feet soon. Cindy and family went up to Kelowna to stay with Sayde while Liza, Brendon, Breya and Keaton participate in Trek. I hope everyone does okay.

My finished front yard looks beautiful and I paid  Ryan for it today. I am done! Ryan will replace the back turf for me in the fall when I am assured that the awnings are preventing the turf burning at all seasons. 

The weather is very hot and wildfire smoke is in the air. 

I speak at the YSA this Sunday with Cheyenne as my companion. She is also going to sing Day by Day. I have been working on my talk and have that ready now. Life goes on and I am feeling better as are my three sick children. Lara Lyn missed the wedding but also missed the after illness.

June 28, 2023

 I am in Tennessee with Trevor’s family. The wedding has occurred! We arrived in Philadelphia Thursday evening and finally got our rental car from Dollar - very slow. We arrived at the Marriott Hotel after midnight and got into our room. The trip had gone well and I enjoyed flying Air Canada except - except when about an hour to forty-five minutes out of Montreal, as I was looking out the window, another plane was right on our wing a little way off and was gone immediately leaving an air stream. Nothing was said by the pilot but I sure it was or should have been reported. It could have been a catastrophic mistake by pilots or ground control. It really could have been a midair collision. It appeared to be another Air Canada passenger plane. I was not frightened but it was startling and concerning. Certainly we had my father and Tom as our angels as we made that trip. I am sure my father was on alert.

Trevor and I were the first ones up the next day and went to visit in the lobby. Justin and Treyson joined us and finally the girls and others. Cindy and I went shopping at Target nearby and picked up some gifts for the baby and a few other things. Liza had a good rest in bed later to catch up. We had the rehearsal dinner after the rehearsal at the venue. We went to an Italian restaurant for the dinner and Trevor and Tammie hosted that. Trevor, however, would not pay for alcohol.

June 24 - The wedding day! The wedding did not start until late afternoon but Tammie and all the girls had to go early for hair and makeup and the boys went a little later making it a long day. The girls and I went to Target again and had a little breakfast at Starbucks in the store and did some shopping too. We got ourselves ready and drove back to the venue which was a farm in the beautiful countryside. We even had a long wait after that before things got started. They had a shuttle bus bringing people from the hotel and prepared to take them back later after a night of drinking. The weather was hot and humid and we had a rain shower before the outdoor ceremony. Trevor performed the ceremony and he did well. Mo and Zach had written vows and Trevor added a bit more of his own. Justin, Treyvn, Treyson and Jadyn were all part of the wedding party and they did well. Zach also had Mo’s brother and two of his hockey friends and Mo had her sister and friends along with Jadyn. We moved into the barn for the reception. It really was lovely and well done and Mo’s parents wanted to make sure we were having a good time. There was lots of food, music and a bar for those who were drinking. There was lots of dancing too, especially as the night moved on. Zach’s host family that he lived with in Michigan drove down and that was very kind. They are church members. Everyone loves Zach. Mo is cute and very outgoing. We did like her family although her sister would not talk to us. I think she is jealous of Monica and does not seem to like Zach, I believe because of that jealousy that seems to be going on. I am grateful for Cindy and Liza for being there to support Zach and the family and to support me. Overall things went well.

Justin is struggling with JayLynn and his concerns back home but he did well and is a good little father. He and Treyson left early Sunday morning, Cindy and Liza left early too and the rest of us left for Tennessee later after we had a wedding breakfast at the hotel with guests staying at the hotel and Mo and Zach, who were at the hotel too. Zach tries to make sure everyone is taken care of and even had two of his hockey friends stay with he and Mo at the beach house for the next couple of days. I told him a honeymoon is not a team sport.

Tammie and Trevor are renovating their kitchen and bathroom so their home is a construction zone even though the completed work is looking great. They do have a lot of corrections be made and Tammie is making lists and connecting with contractors. It is a difficult process to renovate. Liza is struggling with her pool construction too and with errors being made.

We have been doing some shopping and such here in Tennessee and driving Trey to football etc. Trevor has got a bad cold and today Jadyn came down with it. Justin is also not feeling well and that could be a concern for JayLynn. I have also met Trey’s girlfriend Jaya and Jadyn’s boyfriend Jack Jack and yes,  it is two Jacks.

I return home tomorrow flying to Oakland and then up to Bellingham. I have been concerned about Kona and apparently she is not eating too well. She is a pumpkin. I have asked that they keep her until Friday morning as I arrive late in the evening tomorrow. Cindy and Paul will pick me up.

I am grateful for my children and all they do for me. I am missing my husband but I am certain he is near us throughout these celebrations and sorrows. 

June 22, 2023

 Cindy, Liza and I are in the Calgary airport on our way to Zach’s wedding in New Jersey. We will fly from here to Montreal and on to Philadelphia which is near New Jersey. The girls are returning home on Sunday and I will go back to Tennessee with Trevor’s family for a few days, flying home on Thursday. I have put Kona in a kennel and that was difficult as she was crying and upset. I hope she manages alright. I was upset too because they would not let me tour their facility. 

I have spent the last few days getting everything in order at my home and with my business affairs. I have completely shut down the Alberta numbered company with the help of Phil our accountant. I also got the year end information sent to Phil for the two BC companies and I had a meeting and with Eric and Sherri my financial planners. I met with my friend Rosemarie to discuss her home decor. Jamie and his son Brock are staying at my house on Friday night while they are here for Brock to run a race so I have tried to have things ready for them and food in the fridge and freezer. 

JayLynn is at her parents home right now but is experiencing pneumonia. She is having such a difficult time. Tammie took Treyson home with her and Justin is flying out for Zach’s wedding this weekend and will take the baby back with him. This is very hard for this little family and they are trying so hard. I just hope and pray that some solution is found to help stabilize her.

I have had the house and the windows washed this week and I also got the car washed. I am doing my best. I have also made arrangements with Ryan to complete my front yard. He should be doing it in the next couple of weeks. Hopefully the house will be in shape then but I do need to put sealer on my driveway and possibly the back patio stones. I need to clean the garage too. I guess there still is more to be done. Always more and I miss discussing all the needs and decisions with Tom.

As we fly across the country today we will pass thru all the cities I grew up in - Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal. It is literally a tour of the cities where we were based and during my Dad’s flying career. I am taking my girls on a tour of my childhood.