We're home! Safe and sound - a little chilly here in Texas compared to Las Vegas, NV (yeah baby). It's late - more to come on the past week.
Jim
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Saturday, April 19, 2008
A bottle
I need a bottle to trap time in! I last blogged in March, now it is the past the middle of April (hope everyone sent in their taxes before the 15Th).
We had a wonderful Easter with our "Waco family" (this is defined as a any of the dear friends we have met here in Waco), enjoyed watching General Conference, especially Elder M. Russell Ballard's talk - his face in describing his wife's expression while he tended to his little children was priceless, and we have enjoyed some cool weather, some warm weather, and some stormy weather - without the tornadoes.
I have travelled so much, I feel like I have forgotten where I've been and what I've done. It is a sorry state to get old and lose your memory.
Today I have a special assignment. I have been asked to sing at Haylee Jacobsen's baptism. What an honor for me. I didn't think that Haylee even liked me, and she certainly surprised me with the request.
Afterwards, Princess and I and the girls will be gone for about ten days. This too is an honor. We are travelling home to spend time with my Mother. I fear that, I know that her time here on earth is limited and with my work/travel schedule, I desire to spend some time with her while I can. The cancer in her body is causing more and more problems with normal functions, and she has just returned from her ninth hospital stay since the end of January this year. It is truly a privilege to make the drive home to see and spend time with her. She has proven to all of her children that every single day is worth fighting for to live. Heck, she was only given 18 months to live when they diagnosed her, and that was in May 2003! This may sound a little selfish (rightly so I think), but with Princess and I having lived in Texas for almost seven years, we know that the call will come telling us that she has left this life, and I want to take advantage of each opportunity I can to express my love, my gratitude, my honor and privilege for having the wonderful, glorious duty to be her son and call her Mother.
I know - I'm too sappy and sentimental - can't help it for cyring out loud - she's my Mom! Our wonderful friends (family) will be taking care of the house - I even had offers from someone to mow the yard while we are gone - thanks, but I'm anal about the pattern I put in the grass with the mower.
I still need a bottle - to capture the memories and the time in - I guess that's why the Good Lord gave us memories instead.
Jim
We had a wonderful Easter with our "Waco family" (this is defined as a any of the dear friends we have met here in Waco), enjoyed watching General Conference, especially Elder M. Russell Ballard's talk - his face in describing his wife's expression while he tended to his little children was priceless, and we have enjoyed some cool weather, some warm weather, and some stormy weather - without the tornadoes.
I have travelled so much, I feel like I have forgotten where I've been and what I've done. It is a sorry state to get old and lose your memory.
Today I have a special assignment. I have been asked to sing at Haylee Jacobsen's baptism. What an honor for me. I didn't think that Haylee even liked me, and she certainly surprised me with the request.
Afterwards, Princess and I and the girls will be gone for about ten days. This too is an honor. We are travelling home to spend time with my Mother. I fear that, I know that her time here on earth is limited and with my work/travel schedule, I desire to spend some time with her while I can. The cancer in her body is causing more and more problems with normal functions, and she has just returned from her ninth hospital stay since the end of January this year. It is truly a privilege to make the drive home to see and spend time with her. She has proven to all of her children that every single day is worth fighting for to live. Heck, she was only given 18 months to live when they diagnosed her, and that was in May 2003! This may sound a little selfish (rightly so I think), but with Princess and I having lived in Texas for almost seven years, we know that the call will come telling us that she has left this life, and I want to take advantage of each opportunity I can to express my love, my gratitude, my honor and privilege for having the wonderful, glorious duty to be her son and call her Mother.
I know - I'm too sappy and sentimental - can't help it for cyring out loud - she's my Mom! Our wonderful friends (family) will be taking care of the house - I even had offers from someone to mow the yard while we are gone - thanks, but I'm anal about the pattern I put in the grass with the mower.
I still need a bottle - to capture the memories and the time in - I guess that's why the Good Lord gave us memories instead.
Jim
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Sunday...
EASTER SUNDAY THAT IS!
Happy Easter!!
Here is a little ditty that I did last night at a bar-b-cue
Can you tell what the little
shapes are? Take a wild
guess!
Keep Guessing!
They're PEEPS!! LOL - It was too much fun!
I did it all by myself and Princess was most
proud of me! The cookie was delicious too!
Happy Easter!!
Here is a little ditty that I did last night at a bar-b-cue
Can you tell what the little
shapes are? Take a wild
guess!
Keep Guessing!
They're PEEPS!! LOL - It was too much fun!
I did it all by myself and Princess was most
proud of me! The cookie was delicious too!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Boring
That's how my life has become lately. Travel, home on weekend, travel, home on weekend, rinse, lather repeat, you get the picture.
So dear readers, not many of you commented on Princesses new car! I am disappointed in you. That thing is a major investment of time (and let's not forget money) for us both. It drives like a dream, and if you are considering a new car, I say, no shout it out, check out the Murano!
This past week has kind of been a downer (uhoh, it's Debbie Downer wah huh). I hurt my back last Saturday and have been working from home to recover and recuperate. I don't mind the getting old part of life, it's the getting fat part that just bites the big one! I know, I know, exercise, moderation in diet, exercise, will all help those old body parts feel better. Thanks for the lecture.
So, I thought I would post some more random pictures - no not the car - you jealous people, but of our trip home for the wedding.
So dear readers, not many of you commented on Princesses new car! I am disappointed in you. That thing is a major investment of time (and let's not forget money) for us both. It drives like a dream, and if you are considering a new car, I say, no shout it out, check out the Murano!
This past week has kind of been a downer (uhoh, it's Debbie Downer wah huh). I hurt my back last Saturday and have been working from home to recover and recuperate. I don't mind the getting old part of life, it's the getting fat part that just bites the big one! I know, I know, exercise, moderation in diet, exercise, will all help those old body parts feel better. Thanks for the lecture.
So, I thought I would post some more random pictures - no not the car - you jealous people, but of our trip home for the wedding.
This is the bride and MOTB (her mom- figure it out!) dancing - it was cute and they had a great time.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Colder Than..
So, Sunday the temperature was 76 F for the high! In MARCH! Then Monday, the temperature was a cool 41 F for the high! Oops, did I say cool? I meant to say Freezing with the wind chill driving the temperature down into the mid 20's.
Now most sane people are at home, with heaters on, or with fires in the fireplace, but no, not us! Princess used my only scheduled day at home to go out and get her new vehicle. See, the car she has been driving was a lease, or as I like to call them a "fleece". The lease was up, and we had batted around keeping the car and paying it off. Well, mathematics took over my brain and after adding up 3 years of "fleece" payments, and then 3 years to pay off the car - I about fainted!
We were smart this time, we got pre-approved for a loan, researched the car we wanted, price, options, taxes, etc. We even tried to do an online deal through our insurance company, but they didn't have that feature here in Waco. We walked in to the dealership, got our salesman, looked at the car, then we said, here's the deal. He accepted, and in under two hours, we left with the new car, saying adios to the 2005 Murano.
AND HELLO
TO THE NEW
2009
NISSAN MURANO!!!!
Here's the exterior - this is about the color we purchased, called tinted bronze.
Here's a picture of the interior, it's black with some dark gray and it has leather seats, with the front ones heated (which came in handy yesterday)! She's happy, I'm happy, and my budget is happy too. In my book, a win win. One other thing, she better get used to this car - she'll be driving it quite a while!
Jim
Now most sane people are at home, with heaters on, or with fires in the fireplace, but no, not us! Princess used my only scheduled day at home to go out and get her new vehicle. See, the car she has been driving was a lease, or as I like to call them a "fleece". The lease was up, and we had batted around keeping the car and paying it off. Well, mathematics took over my brain and after adding up 3 years of "fleece" payments, and then 3 years to pay off the car - I about fainted!
We were smart this time, we got pre-approved for a loan, researched the car we wanted, price, options, taxes, etc. We even tried to do an online deal through our insurance company, but they didn't have that feature here in Waco. We walked in to the dealership, got our salesman, looked at the car, then we said, here's the deal. He accepted, and in under two hours, we left with the new car, saying adios to the 2005 Murano.
AND HELLO TO THE NEW
2009
NISSAN MURANO!!!!
Here's the exterior - this is about the color we purchased, called tinted bronze.
Here's a picture of the interior, it's black with some dark gray and it has leather seats, with the front ones heated (which came in handy yesterday)! She's happy, I'm happy, and my budget is happy too. In my book, a win win. One other thing, she better get used to this car - she'll be driving it quite a while!
Jim
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wedding Photos
Princess and I outside the wedding/banquet hall - aren't we dapper! 
My Brother Rich gives Nicole a last kiss before "giving her away" to Steve. This was a fluke as my camera is not an SLR kind and the lens closed right as he kissed her.I know, I know - my Mom had changed out of her dress shoes to sandals, and her sandal got caught on the floor! I was mesmerized and couldn't stop filming. The whole time, Princess is yelling at me "Jim, Jim...go help your Dad!" And I still couldn't move. The posterior of the person at the end of the video is my brother Bert. Then I stopped filming, ran with all the others to help, and Mom was just fine - no major bruises or sores.
We had a good time and I will post more pictures soon - Enjoy!Monday, February 25, 2008
Busy - It's no Excuse
So, I am finally taking a minute to blog.
We drove to Vegas with our girls and the new boys (puppies) for Bill and Linda. Linda was not surprised or happy! She shook her finger at all of us, but by the time we were ready to leave the following Saturday, she had bonded with little Duke and Elvis.
My niece's wedding was a smash. Not your typical Mormon wedding, no Temple ceremony, no cultural hall reception, instead, they were married by a non-denominational minister outside in a beautiful gazebo, on a warm February night. We danced, did the money dance, danced some more ate good food, had cake, and Princess broke her phone doing the African Ant Eater dance - picture the movie, Can't Buy Me Love with a very young Patrick Dempsey (not to worry, we came home, got her switched over to Verizon with me and she got a cute pink razor.
Princesses nephews wedding was on Valentine's Day in the Boise Temple, with the reception to be held this Friday in Idaho (no we are not attending). Reports from the family said it was a beautiful ceremony and the spirit was felt by all.
I have been travelling like a madman - so much so that I ended up with my famous sinus infection/upper respiratory infection - feeling just a little better today, after seeing the doctor and getting the antibiotics along with about 90 catnaps in between my work phone ringing off the hook.
I have pictures to post, I just have to figure out how to do the whole slide show thing again.
We drove to Vegas with our girls and the new boys (puppies) for Bill and Linda. Linda was not surprised or happy! She shook her finger at all of us, but by the time we were ready to leave the following Saturday, she had bonded with little Duke and Elvis.
My niece's wedding was a smash. Not your typical Mormon wedding, no Temple ceremony, no cultural hall reception, instead, they were married by a non-denominational minister outside in a beautiful gazebo, on a warm February night. We danced, did the money dance, danced some more ate good food, had cake, and Princess broke her phone doing the African Ant Eater dance - picture the movie, Can't Buy Me Love with a very young Patrick Dempsey (not to worry, we came home, got her switched over to Verizon with me and she got a cute pink razor.
Princesses nephews wedding was on Valentine's Day in the Boise Temple, with the reception to be held this Friday in Idaho (no we are not attending). Reports from the family said it was a beautiful ceremony and the spirit was felt by all.
I have been travelling like a madman - so much so that I ended up with my famous sinus infection/upper respiratory infection - feeling just a little better today, after seeing the doctor and getting the antibiotics along with about 90 catnaps in between my work phone ringing off the hook.
I have pictures to post, I just have to figure out how to do the whole slide show thing again.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Exscuses
Been Busy! Haven't Blogged or thought of blogging in a while - too darn busy! Arrived home yesterday from East Coast - late - Princess was up with the new puppies. NEW PUPPIES! Yikes! Whew, they are not for us but for Bill and Linda. Two little male dachshund puppies, one red, one dapple silver.
New Puppies
I hope you enjoy this. They are soooo cute and cuddly! Here is a still photo of each of them
New Puppies
I hope you enjoy this. They are soooo cute and cuddly! Here is a still photo of each of them
Monday, December 31, 2007
2007
Well, here I am again, in the den, the house is ice cold (anything higher than 63F and Princess starts having hot flashes), in my sweats typing. And where pray tell is Princess?? She is fast asleep in bed, with about 4 blankets on top of her!
I have always been a creature of habit, up at the same time, and to bed at the same time. I can't even sleep in on the weekends (my brain goes a million miles an hour and I think of all the things I could/should be doing), even as a kid, I was always first one up, unless I was sick, then stay away from Oscar the grouch!
As this year fast closes, I wish to express my thoughts and thanks.
First - I am grateful for a loving wife. Princess is so talented and so Christ like in her love for myself, our little doggies, and for everyone she meets. She has a heart bigger than the state of Texas.
Second - I am grateful for having such a wonderful job that I love. I have a great group of people that I work with, both at our plant and at our corporate office. I am grateful for a boss who is patient, directing, and motivational. His execution of meetings, of getting things done is exemplary for me. I am also grateful for the team of associates that I work closely with (all my VA bud's).
Third - I am grateful for friends! Texas friends, Nevada friends, Utah friends, no matter where you are, I am grateful for you. When I meet someone, I feel my spirit connect with theirs. This may not always happen at first for the other person, but it does for me. We become instantly kindred spirits! And for all of my/our friends out there, to both Princess and I, you are family (heck aren't we all children of Heavenly Father) to us, and we appreciate your Love and support.
Fourth - I am grateful that I woke up six feet above ground today - it means there is hope for me yet, and that God is not done molding my clay!
Happy New Year's Eve! Be Safe everyone! By the way, I hear Princess blow drying her hair - She's up! Gotta run!
Jim
I have always been a creature of habit, up at the same time, and to bed at the same time. I can't even sleep in on the weekends (my brain goes a million miles an hour and I think of all the things I could/should be doing), even as a kid, I was always first one up, unless I was sick, then stay away from Oscar the grouch!
As this year fast closes, I wish to express my thoughts and thanks.
First - I am grateful for a loving wife. Princess is so talented and so Christ like in her love for myself, our little doggies, and for everyone she meets. She has a heart bigger than the state of Texas.
Second - I am grateful for having such a wonderful job that I love. I have a great group of people that I work with, both at our plant and at our corporate office. I am grateful for a boss who is patient, directing, and motivational. His execution of meetings, of getting things done is exemplary for me. I am also grateful for the team of associates that I work closely with (all my VA bud's).
Third - I am grateful for friends! Texas friends, Nevada friends, Utah friends, no matter where you are, I am grateful for you. When I meet someone, I feel my spirit connect with theirs. This may not always happen at first for the other person, but it does for me. We become instantly kindred spirits! And for all of my/our friends out there, to both Princess and I, you are family (heck aren't we all children of Heavenly Father) to us, and we appreciate your Love and support.
Fourth - I am grateful that I woke up six feet above ground today - it means there is hope for me yet, and that God is not done molding my clay!
Happy New Year's Eve! Be Safe everyone! By the way, I hear Princess blow drying her hair - She's up! Gotta run!
Jim
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
The day after
I'm sitting here in the den as Princess is sound a sleep. We had a wonderful Christmas day. With only about 5 hours sleep, we stumbled out of bed to start the day. We put on the Christmas music, lit the tree, and began the contest of opening presents. Suffice it to say, we are very happy with or without the gifts (okay, who am I kidding, we got a Wii, and I was thrilled)!
We had a friend over for brunch, two different breakfast casseroles, pannetone (sweet bread with walnuts and cranberries), and then just vegged out!
The Elders and Lynn, and the Lackmeyer's all came over for dinner. Princess prepared a prime rib roast, scalloped potatoes, jell-o and cream corn. Lynn did bread and Shannon did green bean casserole. Lynn and Shannon also did dessert, a spice cake and famous apple pie (respectively).
We spoke to family, all except my older brother (I lost his phone number and forgot to get it from a family member in Vegas, so I'll be calling him today).
Jim
We had a friend over for brunch, two different breakfast casseroles, pannetone (sweet bread with walnuts and cranberries), and then just vegged out!
The Elders and Lynn, and the Lackmeyer's all came over for dinner. Princess prepared a prime rib roast, scalloped potatoes, jell-o and cream corn. Lynn did bread and Shannon did green bean casserole. Lynn and Shannon also did dessert, a spice cake and famous apple pie (respectively).
We spoke to family, all except my older brother (I lost his phone number and forgot to get it from a family member in Vegas, so I'll be calling him today).
Jim
Monday, December 24, 2007
Merry Christmas
To our Dear Family and Friends, From our home to yours, We wish you the Merriest Christmas and desire that you receive not only material items, but spiritual feasting at this sacred time of the year.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Preparing
I'm sitting here in the den preparing my Sunday School lesson. It's going to be a tough one today. It is on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I have so far wept through the whole lesson preparation.
I know that at this time of the year, we are to celebrate the birth of the Savior, but this is the lesson assigned me. I know that I am not often very preachy here on the blog, but today I my heart is so full for the love I have for my Savior, for his birth, his life, his mission and especially for his gift of the Atonement. When I think of what he did for me, for us, I am especially grateful for his birth. I am thankful for his earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, and what they must of felt that night some 2,000 years ago when that precious child was cradled in a humble manager.
I am so grateful for my family, for my parents teaching me correct principles, for showing unconditional love even when I made mistakes. I am thankful for a wonderful wife who practices this gift of unconditional love. I am nothing without her, not one good thing would I have accomplished in these past 20 years, let alone this year without her Love, her encouragement, her faith in me to develop and grow and take on more responsibility in my professional life, my spiritual life, and my physical life.
Please forgive the weeping, please forgive me if I'm too preachy today. My heart is overflowing with the love the Savior has poured out upon me, upon us. My heart is full for the love of my older brother who celebrated his Birthday yesterday without a card from his forgetful younger brother. Happy Birthday Rich!
Continue to be good, do righteous works, follow the Savior, that is what this life is about, preparation.
I know that at this time of the year, we are to celebrate the birth of the Savior, but this is the lesson assigned me. I know that I am not often very preachy here on the blog, but today I my heart is so full for the love I have for my Savior, for his birth, his life, his mission and especially for his gift of the Atonement. When I think of what he did for me, for us, I am especially grateful for his birth. I am thankful for his earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, and what they must of felt that night some 2,000 years ago when that precious child was cradled in a humble manager.
I am so grateful for my family, for my parents teaching me correct principles, for showing unconditional love even when I made mistakes. I am thankful for a wonderful wife who practices this gift of unconditional love. I am nothing without her, not one good thing would I have accomplished in these past 20 years, let alone this year without her Love, her encouragement, her faith in me to develop and grow and take on more responsibility in my professional life, my spiritual life, and my physical life.
Please forgive the weeping, please forgive me if I'm too preachy today. My heart is overflowing with the love the Savior has poured out upon me, upon us. My heart is full for the love of my older brother who celebrated his Birthday yesterday without a card from his forgetful younger brother. Happy Birthday Rich!
Continue to be good, do righteous works, follow the Savior, that is what this life is about, preparation.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Travel and BRRR
That was my day today. But before I get started on that, let me recap the weekend at Texaspricetags!
Friday I arrived home from Tucson - to very warm weather. I set up the laptop, checked e-mail, made some calls, did some work. Then I trimmed the "older" bushes and gave the "newer" bushes a bit of a haircut too.
Saturday, Princess and I put lights on many of the bushes and spent a good deal of time stringing lights on the big crepe myrtle in the front. We tested everything and all of the lights worked fine. I also had to replace the one extension cord that I cut through while trimming on Friday. We had Princesses work party and even though Princess stated "we're leaving at 9:30 sharp", we arrived home at 11:30 PM!!
Sunday, up at 5:30 AM left for Stake Conference at 7:15, had a harrowing ride to Jilleen with weird fog that would white out the exterior of the windows - I'm talking really freaked me out all three times it happened! Stake Conference went really well. We were spiritually feed and uplifted, which hopefully will last for the next six months.
Monday, I worked from the plant, then off to the Midway High School Christmas concert! Which totally rocked! The music really helped to bring me more into celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Deborah Vance, Kylie Jacobsen, and Alex Christensen did awesome jobs. We even saw Lane West (our neighbors son's friend) and he had an awesome duet. It was a great evening, with the exception that the Blackhurst's had to leave early cause the girls were getting antsy.
So I arrived in Detroit after getting up at 3:30AM, expecting to wait until 5:30 PM to travel to South Bend, Indiana, only to find an earlier flight, which I got on, which allowed me to get here before some of the freezing rain hits... about now! The temperature is right around 33F! It's cold, wet, and soaks right to the bones. I am grateful to have arrived safe and sound, and to know that I only have a short drive tomorrow to do my audit.
Be safe and WARM out there! Jim
Friday I arrived home from Tucson - to very warm weather. I set up the laptop, checked e-mail, made some calls, did some work. Then I trimmed the "older" bushes and gave the "newer" bushes a bit of a haircut too.
Saturday, Princess and I put lights on many of the bushes and spent a good deal of time stringing lights on the big crepe myrtle in the front. We tested everything and all of the lights worked fine. I also had to replace the one extension cord that I cut through while trimming on Friday. We had Princesses work party and even though Princess stated "we're leaving at 9:30 sharp", we arrived home at 11:30 PM!!
Sunday, up at 5:30 AM left for Stake Conference at 7:15, had a harrowing ride to Jilleen with weird fog that would white out the exterior of the windows - I'm talking really freaked me out all three times it happened! Stake Conference went really well. We were spiritually feed and uplifted, which hopefully will last for the next six months.
Monday, I worked from the plant, then off to the Midway High School Christmas concert! Which totally rocked! The music really helped to bring me more into celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Deborah Vance, Kylie Jacobsen, and Alex Christensen did awesome jobs. We even saw Lane West (our neighbors son's friend) and he had an awesome duet. It was a great evening, with the exception that the Blackhurst's had to leave early cause the girls were getting antsy.
So I arrived in Detroit after getting up at 3:30AM, expecting to wait until 5:30 PM to travel to South Bend, Indiana, only to find an earlier flight, which I got on, which allowed me to get here before some of the freezing rain hits... about now! The temperature is right around 33F! It's cold, wet, and soaks right to the bones. I am grateful to have arrived safe and sound, and to know that I only have a short drive tomorrow to do my audit.
Be safe and WARM out there! Jim
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Tuggs ON
Say it out loud - This is where I have been this week. TUGGS ON - you know, Tuggs On Arizona! ;-0. So really it is Tucson, Arizona, but after I got a call from Mexico and explained that I was in Tucson, my person on the other kept calling it Tuggs On - I laughed my butt off.
This week was scheduled to be at home, but late last week, I got a call from an associate within our company that this vendor Needed to be audited as quickly as possible. So after about a dozen e-mails, we got the date set and here I sit in the hotel room blogging. The mountains are beautiful, the weather is warm about 80F, and there are beautiful mountains!
I'm looking forward to tomorrow - traveling home, doing some laundry, and working on some reports. Then, no more putting up Christmas Decorations - just putting some empty boxes into the attic so we can park at least one car in the garage.
Sunday is Stake Conference in Killeen with our Ward singing right after the opening prayer and then the closing song! We practiced hard, the songs are beautiful, and more important, I'm looking forward to being rejuvenated spiritually.
Gotta go to sleep - early flight tomorrow!
Jim
This week was scheduled to be at home, but late last week, I got a call from an associate within our company that this vendor Needed to be audited as quickly as possible. So after about a dozen e-mails, we got the date set and here I sit in the hotel room blogging. The mountains are beautiful, the weather is warm about 80F, and there are beautiful mountains!
I'm looking forward to tomorrow - traveling home, doing some laundry, and working on some reports. Then, no more putting up Christmas Decorations - just putting some empty boxes into the attic so we can park at least one car in the garage.
Sunday is Stake Conference in Killeen with our Ward singing right after the opening prayer and then the closing song! We practiced hard, the songs are beautiful, and more important, I'm looking forward to being rejuvenated spiritually.
Gotta go to sleep - early flight tomorrow!
Jim
Monday, December 03, 2007
Blogging...
Or lack thereof. This is what I was hit with yesterday at Church.
I had a really good lesson planned out. Reviewed it, studied it, planned it, printed it and then the Spirit and my emotions got to me and I boobed out again. I must say (without being too preachy), that I have a soft spot for my Savior, Jesus Christ and when I teach about is sacrifice for all mankind, It gets to me, in the throat, eye ducts, nose...well you get the picture.
We had a very long day at Church, early choir practice before Sacrament Meeting, then the three hour block, then another choir practice for 1.5 hours, that just really rocked! We got a lot accomplished and it sounded great.
Next week we sing in Stake Conference in Killeen, so if you are in the neighborhood, and want to hear a great choir, come here some inspiring speakers and some beautiful music sung by people who love to sing.
I got to see our friend Karsten last week in Chattanooga, TN. He looked great and seemed to be doing ok. We miss him and also Molina (his ex).
I'll try to be better at posting - it's hard with all the travel and then the laundry, then putting up Christmas lights, the tree, and about 4,000 boxes of Christmas Decoration!!! We have too much stuff (crap as I call it) and I'm thinking that E-bay looks good right about now! Anywho - I haven't died and Princess has posted anything either so you can tell we're busy!
Happy Safe Holidays!
I had a really good lesson planned out. Reviewed it, studied it, planned it, printed it and then the Spirit and my emotions got to me and I boobed out again. I must say (without being too preachy), that I have a soft spot for my Savior, Jesus Christ and when I teach about is sacrifice for all mankind, It gets to me, in the throat, eye ducts, nose...well you get the picture.
We had a very long day at Church, early choir practice before Sacrament Meeting, then the three hour block, then another choir practice for 1.5 hours, that just really rocked! We got a lot accomplished and it sounded great.
Next week we sing in Stake Conference in Killeen, so if you are in the neighborhood, and want to hear a great choir, come here some inspiring speakers and some beautiful music sung by people who love to sing.
I got to see our friend Karsten last week in Chattanooga, TN. He looked great and seemed to be doing ok. We miss him and also Molina (his ex).
I'll try to be better at posting - it's hard with all the travel and then the laundry, then putting up Christmas lights, the tree, and about 4,000 boxes of Christmas Decoration!!! We have too much stuff (crap as I call it) and I'm thinking that E-bay looks good right about now! Anywho - I haven't died and Princess has posted anything either so you can tell we're busy!
Happy Safe Holidays!
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Grattitude
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone. Both Princess and I wish all our friends and family a wonderful, safe holiday.
We are spending Thanksgiving at home. Princess has put the 25 LB Tom in the oven, basting him every half hour. Pies have been made, casserole dishes prepared and waiting to bake, and jell-o is in the fridge.
This year, Princesses Mom Linda is with us. Her dad is in San Jose, CA helping the big guy up at the North Pole obtain all the little kids wish lists along with who has been naughty, who has been nice. He will spend today with some surrogate family in California, then back to the mall on Friday.
We also have Princesses Aunt Marcia and Uncle Howard here too. They arrived around 1:00 AM this morning from Utah. We spoke throughout the day and they had one doozy of a storm in Wyoming from SLC to Denver. We're glad they're here, safe and sound.
What am I thankful for this year? A list that most of you would probably not want to peruse it would be so long. So here is my short version.
Technology: It allowed us to track Aunt Marcia and Uncle Howard as they drove here. Also the advances in medicine that have kept my Mom battling her Cancer.
Family: The most important of all, and not just those of you who are blood related, but those who have chosen us and vice versa we have chosen. The Blackhursts, The Jacobsen's, The Mocks, The Lackmeyers, The Criblez, The Jones, The Estradas, The Castenedas, The Whites, The Nielsens, The Hammers, The Kellers, The Prusseys, The Winnermarks, Our Waco 2ND Ward, the list goes on.
Jobs: In these trying times, I am extremely grateful for a job that I am passionate about and love doing. I have a terrific boss who keeps me motivated and growing. Co-workers on my team that are the best people the world has ever known. And of course, those "customers" that I serve in Commercial, R&D, and our individual plants.
I am deeply grateful for my faith. For the soldiers and others who fought to make and continue to keep this country free. I am grateful for a man who came to earth, who I have not met, who gave his life for all of us.
Whether you're near or far, know this, we Love you all, we wish you only the best and safest Thanksgiving holiday ever.
Jim
We are spending Thanksgiving at home. Princess has put the 25 LB Tom in the oven, basting him every half hour. Pies have been made, casserole dishes prepared and waiting to bake, and jell-o is in the fridge.
This year, Princesses Mom Linda is with us. Her dad is in San Jose, CA helping the big guy up at the North Pole obtain all the little kids wish lists along with who has been naughty, who has been nice. He will spend today with some surrogate family in California, then back to the mall on Friday.
We also have Princesses Aunt Marcia and Uncle Howard here too. They arrived around 1:00 AM this morning from Utah. We spoke throughout the day and they had one doozy of a storm in Wyoming from SLC to Denver. We're glad they're here, safe and sound.
What am I thankful for this year? A list that most of you would probably not want to peruse it would be so long. So here is my short version.
Technology: It allowed us to track Aunt Marcia and Uncle Howard as they drove here. Also the advances in medicine that have kept my Mom battling her Cancer.
Family: The most important of all, and not just those of you who are blood related, but those who have chosen us and vice versa we have chosen. The Blackhursts, The Jacobsen's, The Mocks, The Lackmeyers, The Criblez, The Jones, The Estradas, The Castenedas, The Whites, The Nielsens, The Hammers, The Kellers, The Prusseys, The Winnermarks, Our Waco 2ND Ward, the list goes on.
Jobs: In these trying times, I am extremely grateful for a job that I am passionate about and love doing. I have a terrific boss who keeps me motivated and growing. Co-workers on my team that are the best people the world has ever known. And of course, those "customers" that I serve in Commercial, R&D, and our individual plants.
I am deeply grateful for my faith. For the soldiers and others who fought to make and continue to keep this country free. I am grateful for a man who came to earth, who I have not met, who gave his life for all of us.
Whether you're near or far, know this, we Love you all, we wish you only the best and safest Thanksgiving holiday ever.
Jim
Saturday, November 10, 2007
"Cause You're..."
So this week I was in Idaho for company business doing audits. I flew into Boise, ID and then drove the 113 miles to Twin Falls. I love this drive, the grassy, rolling plains with the mountains on either side of the interstate.
When I got to Boise, I headed straight to Taco Time for some lunch. Princess turned me onto Taco Time over 20 years ago when we went to SLC planning the wedding. I love their crispy meat burrito and chips and cheese. After lunch - I headed out on my drive, i-pod in hand, connected to the radio listening to Christmas music (I know, it's not yet Thanksgiving, but I can't get enough of Christmas music).
Arriving in Twin Falls, I was in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Express (see, now you know why I'm so smart)when my Commercial buyer walks by on her way out for a walk. Well, "A" accompanies me inside, I check in, and we both head out for the walk. We walked the rim of the canyon where the twin falls are, saw some beautiful landscape, and while we're talking and walking age comes up. I tell "A" that I just had a birthday, she replies that hers in on the 17th of November (Happy early Birthday), then she states, "You're older than me". To which I reply, "so, the fat in my face smooths out the wrinkles and makes me look younger"!
Well, the next couple of days, "A" is saying things like "Cause you're older than me" and "oh, I see, it must be an age thing" to which we both laughed. I really like "A" and we have a good working relationship and I consider her a very good friend, at work and away from work.
Wednesday, I got to see Princesses sister, brother-in-law and nieces and nephews. We had a good visit, but it went late into the night. Thursday I was going to go see them, but the audit went late, I got some dinner, and by the time they were home from parent teacher night, I was bushed, and decided to just call it a night. I was in bed by 8:30 PM.
I arrived in Austin, got my car, and headed out onto I-35 North. Oh wait a minute, that wasn't I-35, it was a PARKING LOT! I sat there for 30 minutes inching my way up to the next exit, exited with all the other people, but got turned around and went south to 71 West to get onto the Mo-Pac and skirt around downtown. Seems there were three accidents all on I-35 Northbound in about a 7 mile stretch. I zoomed up Mo-Pac, worked my way back to I-35 thinking I was smart to avoid the toll section, only to discover another accident and traffic standing still. This one however I got past and got home about 4:30 PM.
I reached our humble abode, greeted the girls and started laundry. Right now there's one of the last batches in the washer, when it's done, I'm showering, then I've got a bit of work to do this weekend before I head out to Portland on Monday. Oh, and Princess is with a group, no a gaggle of women at a "stamp/scrap booking" retreat weekend, where all they will do is make projects, and bash our husbands :-).
When I got to Boise, I headed straight to Taco Time for some lunch. Princess turned me onto Taco Time over 20 years ago when we went to SLC planning the wedding. I love their crispy meat burrito and chips and cheese. After lunch - I headed out on my drive, i-pod in hand, connected to the radio listening to Christmas music (I know, it's not yet Thanksgiving, but I can't get enough of Christmas music).
Arriving in Twin Falls, I was in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Express (see, now you know why I'm so smart)when my Commercial buyer walks by on her way out for a walk. Well, "A" accompanies me inside, I check in, and we both head out for the walk. We walked the rim of the canyon where the twin falls are, saw some beautiful landscape, and while we're talking and walking age comes up. I tell "A" that I just had a birthday, she replies that hers in on the 17th of November (Happy early Birthday), then she states, "You're older than me". To which I reply, "so, the fat in my face smooths out the wrinkles and makes me look younger"!
Well, the next couple of days, "A" is saying things like "Cause you're older than me" and "oh, I see, it must be an age thing" to which we both laughed. I really like "A" and we have a good working relationship and I consider her a very good friend, at work and away from work.
Wednesday, I got to see Princesses sister, brother-in-law and nieces and nephews. We had a good visit, but it went late into the night. Thursday I was going to go see them, but the audit went late, I got some dinner, and by the time they were home from parent teacher night, I was bushed, and decided to just call it a night. I was in bed by 8:30 PM.
I arrived in Austin, got my car, and headed out onto I-35 North. Oh wait a minute, that wasn't I-35, it was a PARKING LOT! I sat there for 30 minutes inching my way up to the next exit, exited with all the other people, but got turned around and went south to 71 West to get onto the Mo-Pac and skirt around downtown. Seems there were three accidents all on I-35 Northbound in about a 7 mile stretch. I zoomed up Mo-Pac, worked my way back to I-35 thinking I was smart to avoid the toll section, only to discover another accident and traffic standing still. This one however I got past and got home about 4:30 PM.
I reached our humble abode, greeted the girls and started laundry. Right now there's one of the last batches in the washer, when it's done, I'm showering, then I've got a bit of work to do this weekend before I head out to Portland on Monday. Oh, and Princess is with a group, no a gaggle of women at a "stamp/scrap booking" retreat weekend, where all they will do is make projects, and bash our husbands :-).
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Fun Times
Our Saturday was quite fun.
I got up at 6:00 am and let Princess sleep in. I quietly started the laundry, then came into the den to boot up my laptop. While going through the close to 400 e-mails, I would get up and do the changes from washer to dyrer. Well the phone rang and I jumped up to get it so as not to disturb Princess (little did I know she was up and showered. Well my neighbor called and informed me the "farm" was out front. You see, across from her, one of the neighbors has about eight chickens that they keep in their back yard (and let me tell you, there are no pens there).
Well, neighbor X had left for the weekend and left his back gate open. I went up and knocked on the door to try to wake up their teenage son, but that didn't happen, and in the meantime, Princess had come up the street to see the commotion. We could have been on America's funniest home videos - Princess and I decided to round the chickens up and put them in the backyard. It was too funny, Sue kept laughing and then Nita another neighbor came out and she laughed, then Princess and I started laughing, it was a riot! Picture, me with a stick running around a neighbors driveway shooing chickens through the back gate. Afterwards, we stood around and laughed about it.
Later, Princess, Sue, Macy and I went to see the Bee Movie (really, the kids did not get the jokes - more sienfeldish than kid funny). I would rate it a "Bee" :-D
We then did errands, watched "In the Land of Women" on DVD and went to bed. Now it is Sunday, lesson prepared, and going to iron my dress shirt. Have a great Sunday!
Jim
I got up at 6:00 am and let Princess sleep in. I quietly started the laundry, then came into the den to boot up my laptop. While going through the close to 400 e-mails, I would get up and do the changes from washer to dyrer. Well the phone rang and I jumped up to get it so as not to disturb Princess (little did I know she was up and showered. Well my neighbor called and informed me the "farm" was out front. You see, across from her, one of the neighbors has about eight chickens that they keep in their back yard (and let me tell you, there are no pens there).
Well, neighbor X had left for the weekend and left his back gate open. I went up and knocked on the door to try to wake up their teenage son, but that didn't happen, and in the meantime, Princess had come up the street to see the commotion. We could have been on America's funniest home videos - Princess and I decided to round the chickens up and put them in the backyard. It was too funny, Sue kept laughing and then Nita another neighbor came out and she laughed, then Princess and I started laughing, it was a riot! Picture, me with a stick running around a neighbors driveway shooing chickens through the back gate. Afterwards, we stood around and laughed about it.
Later, Princess, Sue, Macy and I went to see the Bee Movie (really, the kids did not get the jokes - more sienfeldish than kid funny). I would rate it a "Bee" :-D
We then did errands, watched "In the Land of Women" on DVD and went to bed. Now it is Sunday, lesson prepared, and going to iron my dress shirt. Have a great Sunday!
Jim
Saturday, November 03, 2007
World Traveller
Well, since it has been a while and I received so much grief about it that Princess had to blog (for the first time)to defend me.
It is true that I have been very busy with work. Busy enough to work on Saturday and sometimes, print out my auditing templates and itineraries on Sunday for my trips. Because of this, I put blogging aside to concentrate on what is really important, my family. I know, my friends are very important also, and for you dear readers of my blog, extended family and friends,I am sincerely sorry for any disappointment I have caused.
Let me give you a breakdown of my travels in October:
First Week - I travelled to our plant in Pennsylvania to support a group of technicians in our company that my group works very closely with in resolving issues at our plants.
Second Week - Princess's birthday, I got to stay in the plant for two days and I travelled to St. Louis, MO, for a very important meeting with a vendor which has struggled to supply our company.
Third Week - As acting group manager, I was in charge of our bi-annual meeting between my group and our purchasing group. It was a good meeting, and it was also the meeting where our newest team member started working in our group full time.
Fourth Week - I just returned from performing 5 audits in 3 different countries, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. In Ecuador, my hotel room looked directly out onto this most gorgeous view of the Guayaquil temple! And I didn't even plan it that way. I have pictures, and I will post. In Colombia, we saw some beautiful countryside in Medellin and Bogota. In Venezuela, we saw a beautiful country, but felt for the first time in the trip that we were not safe. The country, once very rich and prosperous, struggles under oppressive government policies, and there were very poor people everywhere we went. All in all, it was a good trip.
During all of this, my Mother has had setbacks dealing with her cancer. Her numbers soared to almost 12,000, then dropped to 1,000 (normal is under 30). She has been admitted to the hospital twice - once I do not remember the reason, once for a bowel obstruction (very serious), but again, she was blessed by my Dad and Uncle and her body healed itself with her faith and antibiotics, and no dangerously invasive surgery. She is a pillar of strength and her faith is a testimony to me of the power of prayer and Priesthood Blessings.
Next week, I will be off to Idaho, where I will see much of the state driving between Boise and Twin Falls, and also around the Caldwell area. The best part is that I will get to see Princess's sister, brother-in-law, and the wonderful nieces and nephews! I am stoked.
After that it is on to Washington and Oregon for some audits, then the IN-LAWS are coming for Thanksgiving along with Princesses Aunt and Uncle! Very excited, as it has been over a year since we have had any out of town visitors.
So Dear readers, keep the faith in me alive, keep patience with me, and I promise to blog when able (like early on a Saturday morning to keep you updated)
Jim
It is true that I have been very busy with work. Busy enough to work on Saturday and sometimes, print out my auditing templates and itineraries on Sunday for my trips. Because of this, I put blogging aside to concentrate on what is really important, my family. I know, my friends are very important also, and for you dear readers of my blog, extended family and friends,I am sincerely sorry for any disappointment I have caused.
Let me give you a breakdown of my travels in October:
First Week - I travelled to our plant in Pennsylvania to support a group of technicians in our company that my group works very closely with in resolving issues at our plants.
Second Week - Princess's birthday, I got to stay in the plant for two days and I travelled to St. Louis, MO, for a very important meeting with a vendor which has struggled to supply our company.
Third Week - As acting group manager, I was in charge of our bi-annual meeting between my group and our purchasing group. It was a good meeting, and it was also the meeting where our newest team member started working in our group full time.
Fourth Week - I just returned from performing 5 audits in 3 different countries, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. In Ecuador, my hotel room looked directly out onto this most gorgeous view of the Guayaquil temple! And I didn't even plan it that way. I have pictures, and I will post. In Colombia, we saw some beautiful countryside in Medellin and Bogota. In Venezuela, we saw a beautiful country, but felt for the first time in the trip that we were not safe. The country, once very rich and prosperous, struggles under oppressive government policies, and there were very poor people everywhere we went. All in all, it was a good trip.
During all of this, my Mother has had setbacks dealing with her cancer. Her numbers soared to almost 12,000, then dropped to 1,000 (normal is under 30). She has been admitted to the hospital twice - once I do not remember the reason, once for a bowel obstruction (very serious), but again, she was blessed by my Dad and Uncle and her body healed itself with her faith and antibiotics, and no dangerously invasive surgery. She is a pillar of strength and her faith is a testimony to me of the power of prayer and Priesthood Blessings.
Next week, I will be off to Idaho, where I will see much of the state driving between Boise and Twin Falls, and also around the Caldwell area. The best part is that I will get to see Princess's sister, brother-in-law, and the wonderful nieces and nephews! I am stoked.
After that it is on to Washington and Oregon for some audits, then the IN-LAWS are coming for Thanksgiving along with Princesses Aunt and Uncle! Very excited, as it has been over a year since we have had any out of town visitors.
So Dear readers, keep the faith in me alive, keep patience with me, and I promise to blog when able (like early on a Saturday morning to keep you updated)
Jim
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