Anniversary Trip to South Padre Island - 29 years

 As soon as I returned from our wonderful family reunion my mind kept thinking about our Anniversary, and although it wasn't a BIG one (25), (50) it's still very special to me.

I decided to take Mark to the beach as my present to him.  We decided to go the weekend before our Anniversary to avoid Labor Day rates and crowding.

Not having visited a Texan beach before we asked around for advise.  Everyone said to go to South Padre Island.  So that's where I booked our 4 day weekend get away.  Unfortunately, it is a 6 hour drive south, almost to the boarder of Mexico.

Another unfortunate happening - I took a job that requires her to work 8-5 PM NO MATTER WHAT!  They are so strict. Our original plan was to take off around 2:00 PM (after Mark got off work) arriving in South Padre Island around 8 PM, but with me not being able to get off early, we will not arrive until 11:00 PM.

Friday - In preparation, I packed my suitcase the night before and had everything in the car.  Mark dropped me off at work, so we didn't have to leave a car there.  He picked me up from work at 5:00 PM.  Traffic was heavy!  We enjoyed the peaceful drive down - Austin to San Antonio (2 hrs), San Antonio to Corpus Christi (2 hrs), Corpus Christi to South Padre Island (2 hrs).  

Our hotel room overlooked the pool and the beach!  IT's the best view! (like Bear Lake).  We had a wonderful night's sleep.  In the morning I had to go to the Post Office to mail an order.  Mark and I drove around a little bit to get a look at the island in daylight, and then went back to the hotel to relax at the Beach!  

 

There was plenty of sunshine to be had - you couldn't get away from it unless you brought an umbrella.  We rented an umbrella and two lounge chairs to relax and lay out on!  

The beach was wonderful - strong rolling waves (but watch-out - there's a huge undercurrent).  We laid out, walked along the beach, body surfed and played in the water.  We also enjoyed the refreshing pool!  

 

Anniversaries are a wonderful time for reflection:  We have a wonderful marriage, but as with all things it could be better.  I could be more patient and understanding when there are misunderstandings, Mark could be more compassionate and sensitive to delicate feelings.  We are who we are and we love each other for who they are, but we can always improve.  When I reflect back, it always makes me feel sad for the times I wasn't very patient or understanding.  Then I don't feel worthy, I don't feel like I belong. 

Sometimes I wonder if it would have been better if I didn't marry.  Then I wouldn't let the people I love and care for so much down.  I wouldn't unintentionally forget to do something someone is expecting that I am unaware of, or unintentionally give too much attention to one of my kids so that another feels like I am showing favorites... or unintentionally upset someone without even knowing - not trying - completely unaware!  My husband deserves a better wife and my kids deserve a better mother.  One that's perfect - because I try so hard - every day - in everything I say and do to be kind and thoughtful but all they remember are my mistakes of the past, and judge me for it.  It haunts me!  I know Christ atoned for my sins and mistakes as long as I have repented of them, and I have repented of everything I know about.  I am so sorry that I have let my kids and husband down.  I don't mean to... why would I???  Seriously  - All I have ever wanted it to be there for them, love them, support them, comfort them, be a positive influence in their lives, be a good example.  Of course my intentions do not always match my actions - and thus I make mistakes!  I repent!  I try again!  

Anyway!!!

Mark and I had a wonderful time Saturday - we ended the evening with a delicious all you can eat seafood and prime rib dinner at Louie's!  The BEST part of Louie's, and why we picked it, is the view!  Louie's is right on the water bay side.  It has the most beautiful sunsets.  We toasted (virgin drinks) our anniversary, our love, our laughs, and our trials!  

 

 

After dinner we played Mini-golf for 18 holes!  Mark had a whole in one - I did too, but he won - as always!  

 

We took a nice night time walk to see the sights.  One of the unique things about South Padre Beach is that everyone rents or owns golf carts - and not just a regular golf cart, but a souped up one with lights and fancy horns.  They drive the golf carts up and down the main strip and honk and wave at people.  

IT's such a friendly place.  Very quaint and small.  The only business on the island is apartments, condos, houses, hotels and beach supply stores.  There is one PO and a few drug stores and markets, but everything else is back on the main land. 

Sunday Mark and I slept in until 10 AM!  That's so late for Mark.  We walked along the beach and rested for a while.  Mark got too much sun on Saturday, so he laid in the shade under the umbrella while I laid out in the sun.  We body surfed some more, walked along the beach, laughing and talking along the way.  We watched the other families and reminisced about our adventures.  That night we ate at Del Mar Lobos.  It was a friendly casual atmosphere but Mark didn't like the food very much.  We chose it for the location - right on the bay hoping for another beautiful sunset.  Tonight's sunset was not as glorious as yesterdays!   One amazing tidbit about this restaurant is they have a marching bagpipe group play at sunset.  It was incredible - youth, adults together!

 

 

Monday the waves were huge!  Mark and I body surfed for a bit but it was too much for me.  We hung out at the beach and the pool in the morning and then cleaned up and checked out by 11:30 AM.  All that is left is the 6 hour drive home.

 

 

 

Happy 29th Anniversary!!!

One Order for 12 Quilts

 Just before my trip to Utah I was contacted by a tender woman whom lost her husband recently.

She wanted to order 12 - twelve quilts.  Wow!  That's a lot.  We worked out all the details over the phone and she made the order.

While I was in Utah the shirts arrived - in a HUGE box.

As soon as I returned from Utah, I started working on them right away.

What a blessing!

Disagreement with Jessica - broke my heart

 Although this day was mostly fantastic - it had a very dark side too!

I was talking with Jessica about how happy I was that everyone seemed to be getting along.  I expressed my apology again that Tate did not get to go to dinner with Robert, Devon and Sierra and I on the first night - it was just an oversight, and I felt terrible.  I said I felt bad about other things that had happened in the past between Tate and me.  Because of things that I had done in the past that were insensitive or upsetting to Tate, I didn't feel he and I had as good of a relationship as I would like.  I didn't know if he would ever not see me as "that person" or "move on to greener pastures".  At first Jessica understood and told me it was all okay.  But after we got home from the water park, she expressed to me that she felt it was I that didn't like Tate.  I can't even express how absolutely false this is!  I was in shock.  I didn't even know what to say.  I always get him something when I get Jessica something (I didn't used to, but I have for quite some time now).  I always ask about him, I think about him and pray for him and his family daily.  I feel like I go out of my way to make sure Tate knows how grateful I am to have him in our family - he is so good to Jessica and Cayson!  I literally adore Tate.  He is so thoughtful and kind.  I even wrote all of that in his last Father's Day card.  I just can't believe this - so I asked her to explain.  She said I don't listen to him and that I look at my phone while he's talking.  I really don't know how I will even convince them.  This is a horrible Disagreement that has just shattered my heart.

Saturday in PROVO - Splash Summit

Today is the day I've been looking forward to all week because we are going to Splash Summit for the day.  I'm disappointed that Robert isn't here to have fun with us, but I am happy he has this chance to be with his mission buddies. 

 

 

I love water and sunshine and today is filled with both of them.  Jessica, Tate, Cayson, Marissa, Michael and Mark and I arrived at the park at the same time.  Tate got us free parking and he also got Mark and I passes.  Oh my gosh - he is so thoughtful.  Jessica stayed with Cayson (since she isn't allowed to ride the rides due to her pregnancy), while Tate lead us to the best rides to do while there were short lines.  I had a blast.  I love water and rides - I love the thrill of it all.  Mark and I did as many rides as we could together.  There were some single slide rides, and others were for two people.  We had such a good time together.  Mark and I tried to do things with the kids - with Jessica and Tate too - we did the lazy river with them, and then with Michael and Marissa we did the toilet bowl (called that by Mark).  The only sad part was that Sierra didn't want to go, so Devon only stayed with us for about an hour. However, while he was there we had a blast doing the craziest rides - and we sneaked in a group photo! 

 

 

 

 

 

Tate and Jessica treated everyone to lunch from Subway - delicious and healthy all in one.  We didn't leave the park until around 4:00 PM.  What a fantastic day!

 

 

  

I was exhausted from all the sun and walking but the family wanted to go play tennis.  Mark, Tate, and Michael ended up playing singles after the family hit the ball around for a while.  We called Sierra (Devon had to go to work at 4:00 PM) to see if she wanted to join us for dinner.

We decided to do take away from Noodle and Company and go to the park so Cayson could play.  It was fantastic.  The dinner was delicious, the park was mostly empty, and we all had a fun time.  I took Cayson to play on the playground while everyone finished up eating.  We finished on the swings - we counted over 100 swings... too fun.  Cayson loves learning and playing at the same time and I love doing it with him.  After everyone finished dinner we played a few games of Volleyball.  What a blast - just wish Devon and Robert could have joined us.  

Friday in PROVO - Shopping, Bowling and Brookers

 I am having such a wonderful time in Provo.  I love having time with my kids and their spouses, and especially time with Cayson.  Today Mark and Michael worked at the hotel until 2:00 PM - Mark decided to get off early so we can enjoy some family time together.  In the meantime ...

Robert left this morning to go to St. George to see his mission buddies.  Luckily I was able to say goodbye!

I went shopping to find Jessica some maternity clothes but didn't have any luck.  I also went to Walmart for Robert's necessities.  This took most of the morning and cost about $450.  I am surprised how much prices have gone up since Jessica moved into her first apartment nearly 10 years ago.  The kids called and I finished up shopping to have lunch with the girls.

 

Once Mark and Michael got off work we all met together at Jessica's to wait for Tate to get off.  We decided to go Bowling at Fat Cat's.  Betsy got two lanes next to each other.  Tate got us a great coupon so it was only $5 per person for the lanes and the shoes.  It was all just a great time.  Sierra went over to Costa Vida and got nachos for everyone to share!  Drinks were part of the bowling package too so we all had plenty to eat and drink.  Even Cayson bowled with us using the ramp!  HE's so cute!!!!  It was a bunch of couples:  Jessica & Tate, Mark & Betsy, Marissa & Michael, Sierra and ... well not Devon (he had to work), but we tagged her with Cayson.  The hour of bowling went faster than imagined.  

 

 

 

  

From there we went to Brookers Ice Cream to see Devon.  I also arranged to meet Ali Hodge and her fiance' Chris Collard there.  I'm so excited for her!!!  They take us for a ride in their new Tesla.  We talked for over a hour just catching up!  It's great that we are close to Ali and Chris.  I'm so happy for them.  

 

Mark and I were going to drop Sierra off at her apartment, but she invited me up to watch a movie with her.  Mark went to do something, and then came back later.  Sierra and I watched Aeronauts - what a great movie!  So amazing what they did - and a true story at that!  I'm so glad that I got to spend so much time with Sierra!  It's been great to deepen our relationship!  She is a special soul. 

Thursday in PROVO: Hike Y & Canyon Glen (add photos)

 Thursday morning I went over to spend time with Jessica, Marissa, and Cayson

Shopping!  This morning I did more shopping - It's all I do.  I tried to find some cute maternity clothes for Jessica but there just weren't any she liked. 

Lunch with Robert and Jessica:  Today I treated Jessica and Cayson and Robert to lunch at my favorite place in Provo - you guessed it - Zuppa's.  It was so nice to have more time with them, just talking.  Robert had other plans for the day and then he was leaving for St. George so this would probably be the last I see him, unless he makes it back before we leave.  Also, Cayson will be going down for a nap, and Jessica's not been feeling well so she will too.

It was such a beautiful day.  Jessica and Cayson went down for a nap, so I decided to go back to the hotel, but there really wasn't anything to do there, so I decided to go hike the Y.  Marissa called so I asked if everyone would like to go with me.  They all said yes, except we let Jessica and Cayson sleep.  (Jessica is recovering from a flu/cold).  

Why Not Hike the Y - Robert, Devon and Sierra, Marissa and Michael and I hiked the Y.  The Y is a hard hike - short but very steep!  I did well... I was surprised how well I did.  Robert was the first to the top; Devon would have been first, except he came back to walk with Sierra whom was taking it very slow.  He is such a good husband!  I enjoyed a leisurely walk with Michael and Marissa for most of the hike and had a chance to talk with them.  They are so cute!  Then I somehow moved on and ended up at the top second.  WOW!  We all waited for Devon and Sierra to get to the top to enjoy the view.  You could really see for miles.  You could also visibly see the smoke from the California fires coming into the valley.  There were 11 strikes of lightning in California that started several fires that have spread out-of-control.  It's terrifying how fast fire spreads. I couldn't believe the smoke has traveled as far as Utah.  After a short break and some photos, I decided to run down the mountain.  What a scare!  Trying to slow down is about all I really did.  I felt so out of control most of the time.  Luckily Mark called to see where everyone was - we were supposed to have dinner at 6:00 - oops.  Once we all reached the bottom - I dropped off the kids and headed to the hotel to pick up Mark. 

Mark and I went to shop for food then meet everyone for a picnic at Canyon Glen.  Betsy laid out a massive spread of sandwich meats, cheese, toppings, sides and fixings.  We had chips, pickles, watermelon galore. 

At the Picnic at Canyon Glen we tossed the football, frisbee and played with Cayson a ton.  It got dark before we were ready to leave - it was such a fun night.  We had wanted to play volleyball but all the nets were down.  bummer!

Wednesday in Provo - Sierra's Graduation from UVU (add photos)

 Today is a great day - want to know why - because it starts with me getting to Babysit Cayson in the morning.  Cayson and I played and had so much fun at the apartment.  We also cleaned up the boys bedroom, making room for some of Robert's stuff and organizing his toys.  We cleaned up the kitchen as well.  Then we went for a walk up to Target (because I needed more cleaning supplies).  On our way there we stopped at Chick-fil-A to get Cayson some Chicken Nuggets to munch on while we shopped.  HE liked that.  At Target I found a Mickey Mouse backpack that was perfect for Cayson.  I ended up buying too much - I forgot all I had was the stroller, but somehow I made it work.  I got fruit, and fruit drinks for Mark and I, cleaning stuff for Jessica, and always socks and snacks for Cayson.  

On the way back to the apartment we went to the park to play!  Oh my goodness.  Cayson has grown up so much since the last time I had been to Provo.  Now he can get on the slides and play equipment all by himself and really enjoys it.  We had so much fun running, sliding, swinging and singing.  I took a lot of photos and a video of us singing together. 

While on our way back to the apartment, Jessica called.  She was getting off work, but realized Tate dropped her off so she didn't have a car.  I hurried home, loaded the car seat, loaded Cayson and drove over to get her.  She wasn't feeling very well so I offered to get her lunch.  We stopped at Zuppa's and got lunch to go.  I ate with her since I really hadn't had much time with her, but I was also supposed to be shopping with Sierra - oops - I double booked myself again.  

I leave Jessica's and go pick up Sierra to go shopping.  She is unhappy with me because I am late.  I feel terrible, but hopefully the shopping experience will make up for it.  We went to five stores / 2 malls (Ross, JC Penneys, Dillards, MikaRose, and one more) - but still didn't find anything she liked or that was in her size - again.  We ended up getting Cinnabun and calling it a day.  She had to get back to her apartment to get ready for the graduation ceremony.

In the mean time, without Sierra knowing, I have been in communication with Devon and Sierra's mom to find out what we are doing to celebrate - nobody really had any plans so I offered to host a party.  Sierra's mom said we could have the party at her house.  After dropping off Sierra, I ran to the party store, bought plates, cups, tablecloth, decorations and balloons!  Then I raced back to get Mark.  Then we raced over to pick up Cayson and Jessica.  

Mark, I and Jessica and Cayson met Tate and Robert at IHOP and before heading over to the graduation ceremony.  Unfortunately, the UVU ceremony didn't happen as it was explained - which meant we missed seeing Sierra Graduate.  We missed it by minutes - literally because they directed us to the wrong parking lot (lot 4, not lot 14) we missed it.  Luckily, Jenn (Sierra's mom) video recorded it).  We all laughed about it and took photos with Sierra.  I'm glad I stopped to get balloons first.  The balloons were a big hit.

Sierra and her family went to take more photos of Sierra - while Mark and I ran to pick up the ice cream cake and pizza.  We met back at Sierra's parent's (Eric and Jen) house at 6:45 to enjoy festivities, food and conversation. 

It was a great night.  The house looked great after I decorated and everyone helped!  It was so fun to celebrate this special occasion with her.  

Sierra's Graduation from UVU (add photos)

 Sierra actually graduated from UVU (Utah Valley University) back in May when she was supposed to graduate, but the university moved the promotion ceremony to August due to the Coronavirus.  

This worked out better because now all of the family can be there to celebrate with her.

The ceremony itself was uneventful in that Devon and Sierra  drove up, she got out of the car... she walked up and they handed her a diploma cover, they took a photo - let others take photos and then that was it!

Luckily we all there to celebrate with family, friends, balloons and cameras.

After the photo opps, I arranged with Sierra's mom to have a celebration at Jenn and Eric's house.  Mark and I ordered an ice cream cake from DQ, and pizza from Little Caesars.  I also got tons of decorations at Zurker's Party Store, so when we arrived at Jenn and Eric's house - we decorated and partied!  Everyone hung out, ate and enjoyed each other's company.

It was especially nice for Mark and I to have more time getting to know Eric and Jenn.  They are some of the nicest people!  We are so blessed to have such wonderful in-laws for our children. Russ and Debbie are the same - just the nicest people!  

Tuesday in PROVO (add photos)

Mark and I are so excited to be going to Provo to see the kids - even though it has only been a month since we last saw them.  

I was coming out for Sierra's graduation and Education Week, but then when Robert was already living at Jessica and Tate's place, (meaning I was going to have to stay at a hotel) Mark decided to come along. 

We had a bumpy flight in - and a horrible car rental experience at Fox Rental (never use them again).  We were so happy to be on the road.  We arranged to get everyone's food order from Chick-fil-A for lunch and met everyone back at Jessica and Tate's apartment to enjoy lunch.

Since Cayson was down for his nap, Mark said he would babysit so I could take Jessica and Sierra with me to get our nails done.  I did a lavender and white combo, Jessica did a bright melon color and Sierra went very neutral.  It was such a fun time with the girls. 

I took Jessica back to her apartment, and the went shopping with Sierra at the Provo Mall - we looked at DownEast (tried on some really cute clothes - bought some too) too bad she didn't find anything she liked.  Glad to see her friend at the Lip Sense stand.  I felt so bad for her that her son of 33 years passed away.  We were in a bit of a rush because we had to get back so Devon could have the car to go to work.

Jessica left with Cayson - she went to see Tate, and then to go to Young Womens.

Mark went to have dinner with his Thai missionary friends while I was going to take Devon and Sierra to dinner.  Well, Robert came home so we invited him to come too.

Well, we didn't know, but Tate was on his way home too, but we left before he got there.  He felt left out and I felt terrible after Jessica told me what happen.  We didn't even know - and Robert said Tate was frantically busy with his APEX apartment move in thing.  Needless to say - I messed up again.  I feel terrible.  WE had a wonderful dinner and it would have been even better if Tate were there.

So happy to be in Provo.  Later that night Marissa and Michael arrived!!! YAH!!!

Working temp jobs

Well I’m looking for full-time employment I decided to apply for temporary work as well. I signed on with a temporary agency hoping that I could find a temp to permanent job within my skill set. I have been lucky to have a two week assignment at Independence Title - just before we went on vacation. For the past two days I had a two day assignment which was nice. Starting Monday I have a two month assignment which seems a little long but I’m grateful for the work.  My two month assignment is at Capitol City Insurance. 

Betsy goes to ER in pain

So it was a normal night where Mark and I were doing our typical activities… Ate dinner together, Marc had a church meeting so I did some sewing and yard work. Around 1030 we did come follow me together and then Marc went to bed. I still had some sewing to do so I stayed up until midnight. When I went to bed I had a small uncomfortable feeling on my right side just under my rib cage.  I had a difficult time sleeping all night because of the pain or discomfort. The next day I went around the day running errands, shopping,  sewing and doing yard work.  The uncomfortable feeling stayed with me throughout the day and into the evening but as each hour went by it got a little worse. At bedtime I was concerned about the pain but thought I could sleep it off. I knew Marc would not want me to go to the doctor at this time of night because of the extra cost. I was not able to sleep at all, not one minute!  The discomfort became pain and the pain became constant. It also moved to the back of my lungs and to my abdomen. Around 5 o’clock in the morning I just couldn’t take it anymore. I wasn’t comfortable sitting or standing or walking or moving. It was just uncomfortable and painful no matter what I did. Marc drove me to the emergency room where I was admitted and given pain medicine. The pain medicine worked within 10 minutes and I was relieved.  They also did a series of test on my liver gallbladder and pancreas.  They all came back normal. They did an ultrasound on my gallbladder and found a tiny stone inside but said that the stone could not because in this much pain. It’s a mystery. After three hours at the ER I was discharged. I slept or rested most of the day because of the pain medicine. After the pain medicine wore off I did not have any more pain. The doctor thinks it was a gallbladder spasm or attack. I’m just glad I’m not in any more pain!!!

Robert starts Internship with Tate's company

Mark and I are excited for Robert.

After the Reunion, Robert went to Provo with Jessica and Tate to start an internship at the company where Tate works.  He will have the opportunity to see jobs in the "Finance" division.  It is a great experience for him.  We are so happy and grateful to Tate and Jessica for thinking of him for this position.  We are also so grateful to them for opening up their home to house him while he is there before school starts.  

Robert starts internship in Utah

Instead of coming home with us from the Family Reunion, Robert went to Provo with Jessica and Tate. 

Tate offered him an internship position at his company.  This is awesome!  It gives Robert an opportunity to build his resume and learn from Tate and his co-workers.  

It will be quiet around the house without Robert around.  We wish him the best!!!

Family Reunion at Bear Lake - Biking Day with Marissa and Michael (Tuesday) (add photos)

 Tuesday is our last full day at Bear Lake.  Jessica, Tate and Cayson along with Robert, and Devon and Sierra had to leave last night due to work commitments today.  Robert decided to go back with Jessica and Tate to start an internship at Tate's company.  He will be working with Tate to learn more about the Finance Industry.  Mark and I are very excited for him to have this opportunity.  

Today, we are blessed to have Marissa and Michael still with us for one more day.  We started the day with a delicious breakfast and a bicycle ride.  We walked down to the bike rental place.  There we were able to rent two single bikes and a double seated bike cart (it has four wheels and you get to sit side by side while you bike).  Marissa and Michael started with the double bike cart, while Mark and I took off on the single bikes.  We were able to go far and fast.  We road them down to the lighthouse and back.  We arranged to meet Marissa and Michael at Heritage Park to swap bikes.   Mark and I road the two-seater back to the bike shop and gave Marissa and Michael an hour on the single bikes.  Everyone had a great time together.  I am so happy for Marissa - she and Michael seem to really get along so well.

After our bike ride, Marissa and Michael decided to head back to Rexburg, ID.  Mark and I enjoyed lunch at the condo, played some tennis, relaxed at the pool and hot tub and cleaned up the condo so it would be ready for our early check out tomorrow morning.  Betsy did what seemed like 100 loads of towel laundry, haha - but she got it all done.  It was also very nice to have a day to unwind and relax after a very eventful week with the kids!  

Wednesday morning Mark and I will leave around 8 AM to catch our flight back to Austin!  We had a wonderful time - literally the VERY BEST!!!

Family Reunion at Bear Lake - Kayak and ATV Day (Monday) (add photos)

 It's another beautiful day at Bear Lake - the sun is shining, there is a gentle breeze, and the lake looks amazing! 

Breakfast this morning was prepared by Marissa and Michael.  The are so sweet to make breakfast for us!  Everything was delicious.

Devon has to do online school from 10 AM - 12 PM so the rest of us left the house around 9:50 AM to allow him so peace and quiet while taking his class.  We walked over to the marina and rented kayaks and a paddle board.  Oh my gosh!  What a blast we had.  Mark and I started out in a two-person kayak, Jessica and Robert were also in a two person kayak, Tate was with Cayson in a one-person kayak, and Marissa and Michael were on the paddle board.  We had so much fun and got so many photos!  We rented the equipment for two hours.  After a while, everyone traded around so that everyone got a turn on the different equipment.  Mark and I had a ball on the paddle board too!  He sat or knelt down in the back while I stood in the front.  (It was too hard for both of us to stand).  I had done a paddle board before in the ocean with Marissa - but wow that was hard to find my balance - the lake was so much easier!  Mark and I had a great time.  We then let Tate and Robert have a go on the board.  Watching everyone have a great time in the water was all I needed to make my day!

Devon and Sierra were a little late coming down to rent the ATVs but luckily no one had rented them after us so the rental company let me move my rental from 12-2 to 1-3!  YAY!  We rented two ATVs.  Mark, Jessica, Tate, Cayson, Marissa and Michael took one ATV, while Devon, Sierra, Robert and I took the other one.  We each went in different directions.  Robert drove our ATV to Fish Haven where we found some wicked trails to ride.  He did an awesome job!!!  The Devon drove - YAHOO!  We had such a great time.  Sierra drove us down the mountain back towards Fish Haven and then I drove us back towards the rental.  We had some extra time so we found more trails and WOW, these trails were even more steep and treacherous than the first ones.  I loved that I was the driver for those.  I traded with Robert for the last drive!  We filled up with gas and took the ATV back - all in one piece without rolling it (or popping a tire - like Landon did a few years ago).  

Mark and his crew drove the trails that we found in the end FIRST!  They said it was crazy!  Dad drove the whole time.  At some point Jessica, Tate and Cayson got off because it was just a little too bumpy for a pregnant woman and for Cayson!  We met up with Mark at the gas station!  Our crew was looking for them the whole two hours we were out - so crazy that we eventually ran into them but just at the very end.  It sounded like they had a great time too! 

After ATV riding, Marissa and Michael made sliders for lunch for everyone - wow - those things are delicious!  We ate them all up!!!

The rest of the day was at the pool, tennis and basketball.  

Today has a sad ending, because - two families are leaving!  For dinner we were supposed to have pizza, but I decided to take everyone out to the Raspberry Shake place (which is a diner).  We got hamburgers, cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets along with delicious shakes for dinner.  This is where we had to say good bye to Jessica, Tate, Cayson and Robert.  Devon and Sierra left just an hour later!  It's so sad to see them go but we had a great time with everyone. 

Before they left, I asked, "What could we have done better?"  Everyone said it was GREAT!  They loved it!  That made me so happy!  I'm so glad everyone had a great time!!! 

Family Reunion at Bear Lake - Sunday (add photos)

 Sunday was such a fantastic day to have all the family together.  We were able to sleep in for the fist day on the vacation.  I love to sleep in - however I couldn't really sleep in so I went on the balcony overlooking the lake and read my scriptures in the solitude and solemnity of the beautiful morning air.  (I did have to spray for wasps once again).

That morning, Jessica and Tate made breakfast burritos - heavenly made!!  So delicious!!!  

After breakfast everyone got dressed for church.  Mark made assignments the night before so everyone knew their roll in the Sunday service.  I was so excited in anticipation of everyone being together and imagining the wonderful discussions we would have - more than just Mark and I (and Robert).  I was right - was a super spiritual experience.  Mark asked Tate, Devon, Robert and Michael to bless and pass the sacrament.  Then we shared a conference talk and discussed it.  What was really fantastic was dividing up the Come Follow Me discussion and listening to everyone contribute.  Church went a little longer than normal (2 hours) but it was fantastic, and I felt uplifted and spiritually fed. 

We had a bunch of left overs for lunch - salad, sliders, and sandwiches. 

Mark and I went for a lovely walk.  When we got back we ran into Jessica, Tate, and Cayson - we went with them to the playground where we played with Cayson and talked for a while.  It was so nice to have some one on one time with them.  I love our group, but I also love one on one time.  I am so happy for them.  They have such a beautiful family, that is rooted in the gospel and they share their love for each other and their child so admirably.  Tate is such a wonderful father and husband.  I feel so blessed that Jessica married such a wonderful man.  Jessica is truly a wonderful mother; she cares so much for Cayson.  She and Tate have a beautiful relationship!!!

For Dinner Tate and Jessica made the most delicious barbecue ribs for dinner along with fantastic sides of peas and potatoes.  We are spoiled - um um good!!!  Tate grilled the ribs outside - so good!!!!  

Tonight was also the perfect night to take family photos.

Tate picked a perfect spot on the lake shore.  As we arrived a family was just packing up - we quickly asked them if they would take the group photo, and they agreed!  It is one of my absolute favorite family photos!  Then we took a WHOLE LOT of photos of different groups!  So wonderful!  Everyone was patient while we rotated through the different combinations of photos wanted and needed.  

Family Reunion at Bear Lake - Horse Back riding Day (need photos)

 Today was fantastic!!! - It's HORSEBACK RIDING DAY!!!

I get to wear my "real" "live" cowboy boots!!!  I'm so excited. 

We started with a delicious breakfast.  Mark and I made french toast with syrup and whipped cream.  We served it with fresh strawberries and blueberries.  We also had bananas and small oranges available.  

The weather is perfect - the serene 

We drove down in two cars to Laketown to go horseback riding!  I was so excited I could hardly sit still.  Everyone except Sierra went.  She didn't want to go because she has a sunburn that hurt too much.  It was a 20 minute drive - super easy to get to, although we had to call because it wasn't marked very well.

We had to divide into two groups so that someone could always be with Cayson.  Mark, Betsy, Marissa and Michael were one group - they went trail riding first.  Jessica, Tate, Robert and Devon (and Cayson) were the second group - they did the obstacle course and grooming first.  

For our group we drove with the horses for about a mile to another part of the ranch.  From there they owned hundreds of acres.  My horse was Sassy.  She liked to eat and eat and eat.  I love riding horses!!!  Most of the time we were walking but we got to trot and gallop some one the trail.  It was a calm and peaceful ride.  Everyone just seemed to take in the beauty and joy of where we were.  On on ride it also gave us some time to get to know Michael better.  We got to ride for an hour.

Our second hour we rode different horses back at the original ranch barn.  We got to run the horses in races and through an obstacle course.  My horse did not want to cooperate - actually most of the horses didn't, but that's probably because the other kids had already done this for an hour before us, but they did enjoy eating and drinking.  Mark and I traded off taking Cayson off for nature walks, to play on the playground or find something else to do to be safe while the other group was on their trail ride.  While I was taking Cayson through the barn, Mark, Marissa and Michael got to take the horses out for a run.  WoW!  That looked fun!  Cayson got to sit on top of the roping calf - Mark pulled him around the paddock.  He was loving it.  Later, Michael, Marissa and I tried roping the calf - it's a lot harder than it looks. Michael was able to do it after about 100 attempts, I never did - nor did Marissa, but we sure had fun trying.  It was amazing that this 10 year old girl, Sarah (the owners daughter) was able to do it so fast and accurately!  She was amazing!

The other group took more of a spirited trail ride.  Robert, Devon, Tate and Jessica played around more than we did and were told to control their horses more!  Sounds like they had a lot of fun!!!  

I wish we could have all ridden together, but they only allow groups of 5-6 out at a time.  Even so it was a great experience.  

We were only supposed to be there for two hours, but she let us ride for three for the same price (mainly because the trail rides went longer than expected).  We finished up around 1:00 PM.

YAHOO!!!  What a great morning!  Extra blessing - both Devon and I did not have any allergic reaction to the horses!  YIPEE!!!

We returned to have lunch made by Devon and Sierra!  YUM stuff - They made Qesadilla and Nachos for everyone - Mexican is a win win in this family!

It was 2:30 before we finished with lunch - several people went to play tennis or basketball.  Some went to the pool / hot tub!  I enjoyed the pool and hot tub with Jessica and Marissa!  It was nice to enjoy some girl time.  I wish Sierra felt better and could be with us.  

Missing Sierra - I went back to the condo to spend some time with her and Devon - we had a great conversation!  I love how open and loving they are!  We are so blessed to have a beautiful couple like them in our family!

From there we went out to play more tennis - the weather was perfect and the courts were open - so we played doubles and singles for a while.  We were having so much fun that we lost track of time.  

Mark and I were in charge of dinner - tonight is grilled STEAKS!!!!  I invited my dad and Alison to join us - but that we were running later than expected.  They did not want to wait that long.  I misunderstood - I thought they were coming so I asked them to bring the salad.  Instead, they came (a little upset) dropped off the salad stuff and left (BOO).   Despite that, we had a wonderfully delicious dinner of ribeye steak, salad, rolls, and baked potatoes with cheddar cheese, butter, and sour cream.  YUM!  DELICIOUS!! 

What a super fantastic day - I am just sad that my dad left because he is leaving for SLC in the early morning tomorrow - I would have loved to have him come over for church.

Family Reunion at Bear Lake - Boating Day and Family Home History (need photos)

 Oh what a happy day!

I'm so excited for this day - I'm like a kid in a candy shop.  I've been looking forward to boating with the kids for EVER!!!

We got down to the dock a little late (did not make me happy - but oh well what can you do with 10 people).  I signed everything and paid everything and okayed everything  - okay let's go already!!!  I rented a 17 person Wakeboard boat, along with a tube for 3 people, wake board and wake surfer.  

Mark was designated driver of the boat - he wanted to stay in the shade. 

After I got everyone loaded up on the boat, I ran over to another dock (didn't know they weren't together) to rent the Seadoo Jet Ski.  Oh my goodness!  I love the power and speed of the Seadoo Jet Ski. 

I rented the boat and Jet Ski from 10 - 4:00 PM (should have done it longer).

Everyone had a chance to ride the Jet Ski and everyone had a chance to ride the boat!

I loved watching everyone have a blast.  Unfortunately, Devon got a little sea sickness, but nothing too bad.  He laid down in the front of the boat.

Robert, Michael and Tate did the Wake Board

Robert, Michael, Tate, Sierra, and Marissa did the Wake Surfer.  Tate was so kind - he was trying to help me get it, but I was the last to go, and we ran out of time before I could get up on the board.

Robert drove the boat while Mark and I were riding the tube.  He went, what felt super fast.  It was all fun until we crossed the wake and I went flying.  When I hit the water I heard something crack in my neck.  I went into shock/panic.  I was shaking and so scared.  Luckily, it doesn't seem to be anything of importance.

ALL in ALL - A Super fantastic day!

Devon and Sierra had Pasta Dinner for us that night - oh wow - it was perfect - we were all so hunger from a long day on the lake.

My dad and Alison came over for dinner.  They were excited to be with us and I was super excited that they could be with us.  Dinner was a little crazy because we didn't have all the ingredients, but it worked out.  

After dinner we my dad share his childhood experiences and then we went around the room having each person ask him one question - we went around twice.  Any question about work took a long time to answer.  He loved his work.  It gave him a great sense of value and pride. 

Family Reunion at Bear Lake - First Day (need photos)

 Today is the travel day -

Mark and I cleaned up the Air BNB that we stayed at in Rexburg and headed down the road to Bear Lake.  The trip would have been 3 hours - it was an easy drive; however, we had to stop at the grocery store before arriving at the Condo and that took at least an hour.

We bought $500 worth of food WOW! and that's not even all of it, but it is also a ton cheaper than eating out every night with 10 people.

Marissa and Michael arrived at the Condo before us.  She was so excited to show me the view.  She was right - I LOVE THE VIEW.

We are right across the street from the Lake with nothing interfering with our view.  The first thing we did was make room assignments.  I feel super bad - we invited Michael and in doing so it throws off the sleeping dynamics just enough that Marissa will move. 

Mark and Betsy - Master bedroom

Devon and Sierra - upstairs bedroom

Jessica and Tate - Queen bed with bunk bed in same room (for Cayson) - hopefully Marissa can sleep above Cayson (not the original plan).

Robert and Michael - two bunk beds (queen and twin). This is where Marissa and Robert were going to sleep, but then it wasn't appropriate to have Michael and Marissa in the same room, so Marissa volunteered to move out.  

Marissa ended up sleeping on a mattress in the family room.  It was just too difficult trying to be quiet and not wake up Cayson.

One by one as families arrived, I got more and more excited.  Jessica and Tate were the next to arrive.  They loved the place.  We took them around to see the tennis courts, pool, and play ground.  

Devon and Sierra are not arriving until around midnight, but I stayed up for them to welcome them to the vacation reunion!  I'm so excited that everyone made it!  It's going to be a GREAT VACATION!

Marissa Graduates from Nursing School at BYUI (add photos)

Mark, I and Robert flew out to Salt Lake City on July 21st.  We rented a minivan and drove up to Rexburg for Marissa’s graduation the next day. On the way up to Rexburg we stopped and saw Mark’s friend Walter Holiday, from Hawaii. We also stopped in Pocatello to pick up a congratulations cake at Costco. Betsy rented a house in Rexburg for the family to stay in so we could be together, however Jessica and Tate, and Davon and Sierra were not able to take a lot of time off from work so they didn’t come.  They will celebrate with us at the reunion!  

My dad and Alison drove up from Phoenix for her Graduation!  

Upon arriving in Rexburg we met Marissa and her boyfriend Michael at the hotel were my dad and Alison are staying.  We had a lovely visit and dinner with them.  

Wednesday- August 22, 2020!  Happy birthday Mark Lowe!!!  Today we got up and played tennis.  Then we met my dad and Alison to your BYUI campus.  We took Mark to Cafe Rio for a birthday lunch and then separated.  Betsy and Marissa went to get their nails done (but had no luck), Dad and Alison went to rest, and the boys went to play basketball.  

Graduation was at 5:00 at Porter’s Park Pavilion. It was a lovely program.  Betsy bought Orchid leis for Marissa!  Our Hawaiian tradition!  We are also proud of Marisa for her accomplishment and graduating from the nursing program.  She was even mentioned in one of the speeches!  She graduated summa cum laude from her program and will soon take the NCLUX and start looking for work.  

We celebrated after with pizza, cake and ice cream cake at Michael’s parents, Suzanne and Derrick Rhoton’s house.  We did zip line, played games and enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate Marissa’s accomplishment!  

Growing my Sew Amazing business

 Over the summer I took a course through the LDS Business College - How to Start and Grow Your Business.  

The purpose was to learn how to develop and improve my Sew Amazing business.  I learned so much!  

While I was doing the course - I learned so much.  I started the following practices:

- Advertising

- Record Keeping

- Accounting

- Separate account for business

- communication is key

- Charge the right amount

Implementing these changes brought better organization to my business, but better than that, it also increased my orders by 10X.

I finished the course on July 19, 2020~  What a great experience.  

My business is booming!  I now have a 1, 3, and 5 year plan!

Frisbee Golf (need photos)

Sunday activities outside are perfect in Texas.  The weather is so comforting to me.  I love feeling the sun's rays sink deep into my skin.

Mark and I started playing Frisbee golf on Saturday or Sunday evenings.  The course is approximately 3.11 miles long through some rich forest land in Georgetown.  Since Robert starting living with us, we are taking him with us.

There are 18 holes.  Robert has become a pro at flying the disc.  Mark is very good too.  I just do not have the same strength they have.  I can't seem to get my disc to fly like they can get their discs to fly.

Nevertheless, we enjoy the company, competition and the scenery.   It's a wonderful way to spend the afternoon.

Top golf (add photos)

 Another day of fun and adventure!  Today we went to Top Golf to have some fun.  Mark was given a gift card for Top Golf from Jessica and Tate so we thought it would be a good outing to do with Robert.

We enjoyed the golfing games, food and conversation.

Robert has an amazing swing and can achieve amazing distance with the ball.  He was able to hit it all the way to the back - Brown, White!!!  

The way the games work is you aim for targets.  The first targets are closer and they get farther away as the game progresses.  I was in the lead for the first half of the game getting almost every Red, Yellow and Green, but once the targets went beyond Green, I had a hard time hitting them, but both Mark and Robert had ease in hitting them.

We had a great time!  Robert won in the end!

Zipline at Travis lake with Robert (add photos)

 I'm so excited.  (We took Marissa Zip lining at Travis Lake Adventures last year, and I knew I wanted to take Robert when he got back from his mission.)  So the day finally came that we are going Zip lining with Robert.

Today Mark and I are excited to go, but Robert doesn't want to go because 1) we had to leave by 12:00 PM (he was still asleep), 2) he wants to do things with his basketball buddies, 3) probably because it's with his parents - how fun can that be. 

Anyway, we woke him and and dragged him out (not really) into the car to go.  I know once he gets there he will like it.

We had a small group, but we still had to wear our masks due to COVID-19.  The first part is taking a boat over to ZIP Island.  Then training on how and what we will do ... then it's ZIPPING from then on out.

We get to do 5 ZIP lines all together.  Two of them are small - to make sure everyone is comfortable with the process.

Then we do three super long runs - over the lake even!  The photos don't show how much fun it is! 

Such a great day with my two guys!  I had a blast!  Just as good or even better than the first time - but this time it was way more HOT!!! 

Temp job for two weeks

Perfect timing - I was offered a job as soon as I applied to work Temporary work.  It was for Independence Title.  I am the receptionist.  I clean for COVID-19, answer phones, restock the frig with drinks and the coffee machines.  I also restock all the snacks, because we offer drinks and snacks to all the clients that come in for a closing. 

I really liked working with these people and doing the CLOSING work.  The receptionist position was very boring.  I was able to bring in my computer and finish two scrapbooks while working for them!  YAY - silver lining!!!

The job ends just before we leave for Idaho and Utah - so Perfect timing!!!