Stellarhoff

Shoulder Surgery For Barron

2010-08-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

Barron had surgery on his rotator cuff on July 8th. He did well and the surgeon was able to reattach the main tendon to his rotator cuff as well as his bicep muscle that was 50% torn off. Recovery has been stressful but I'm hopeful we're beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel. He's not use to sitting around and is wanting do something other than watch TV and walk around Target and Walmart with me! He has started physical therapy so that will keep him busy. We see the surgeon tomorrow and he'll tell us when he can go back to work.....LIGHT DUTIES!!! They say it'll be 4-6 months to recover 100% and that's only if he really works at the physical therapy.

One of the pictures is right after I got him home from the surgery and he was not a happy camper. The other one is from his first physical therapy that started last Friday. I keep telling him that by Christmas he'll be back to normal (whatever that is)!

It rained today and he enjoyed walking around the backyard in the rain. I had to make him take his sling off so it wouldn't get wet! I happened to look out and caught him pulling a couple of weeds...oh well, it made him happy!

Happy Birthday Barron!

2010-05-17T05:47:00.000-07:00

Barron and I drove to Flagstaff on Friday and spent the night in celebration of his birthday. It was a much needed break on so many levels. Saturday turned out to be "Armed Forces Day" so that was an unexpected treat....we caught the tail end of a parade and there was an air show at the airport. Between seeing the planes and visiting the train station Barron was in 7th Heaven!

I love the show "Diners, Drive In's, and Dives". Last year the spot lighted a diner on Route 66 in Flagstaff. I've been wanting to go ever since. It's called "Salsa Brava" and it was yummy. It's mexican food and they brought Barron fried ice cream for dessert. He loved it....I've had better!

All in all a great week-end. Looking forward to hearing from Barron later this morning. He sees the surgeon at 8am. His shoulder hurts all the time now and seems to be getting worse. He's ready to feel better.

My Special Delivery For Mother's Day

2010-05-01T19:48:00.001-07:00

My new favorite picture of Lali! This is her at the Tulip Festival in Seattle. She's so beautiful I can hardly stand it!

An Update On Sam

2010-04-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

It feels like things are finally coming together for Sam. He's got a great job making fairly good money, looks like he might have a government grant for school, and he's finally decided what he wants to do....at least for now.

He and I spent the whole of Tuesday together (his only day off). We went to Gateway Community College and got information on the respiratory therapy course they offer. He needs about a years worth of pre-recs before he can start...he enrolled yesterday for those at EMCC. We won't know until May how much his grant is. If it's enough, he may quit work and do school full time. That would be great. So school wise, he's finally on the right track!

Barron and I took him out to celebrate last night at Ruby Tuesday. They have an awesome salad bar and great burgers. Plus we had a buy one get one coupon! We had a wonderful time just eating and talking with each other. We were there for over two hours! It was the best.

Barron has been working alot of hours and I think it's finally starting to catch up with him...both emotionally and physically. He hurts all over, he's tired, and he needs some time off. Unfortunately, that won't be happening for a while. Looks like he may have to work Saturday AND Sunday this week. Poor guy.

We are hoping to get to Vegas sometime next month...once Honeywell is finished the project their working on now that keeps him there so much. And our plan is to drive to Seattle sometime this summer. We haven't done a big drive like that is some time so it will be interesting. Keep your fingers crossed for us!

That's all for now. Hope everyone is well and happy. Love you all!

Dinner With Kay

2010-03-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

My best friend in 5th grade was Kay Fritz....and she has continued to be my best friend ever since. There have been times when we have gone for years without seeing each other or even speaking to each other. In fact, I lost track of her about eight years ago. Well, she found me on facebook last week! Would you believe she lives fairly close to us?! Sort of anyway. About a twenty minute drive. At least for the next two weeks when she'll be moving...it'll be a forty minute drive then!

We met up last night at Islands Burger for dinner. It was wonderful. It was like we'd never been apart. We just picked up where we left off. It was three hours of laughing, eating, talking, and just having a great time. It was so fun being with her again. We're both looking forward to spending more time together. We may even invite the husbands next time!

I'm so thankful for friends. Heavenly Father certainly knew what he was doing when he "invented" girlfriends! Where would we be without friends? I remember in grade school learning a song with the words, "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other is gold". How true. But, eventually, new friends become old friends and your life is surrounded with gold! Just a thought!

Family and friends. Life is good.

Catch Up

2010-03-20T15:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been this long since my last post...actually I can. It seems I blog as well as I journal. Not my strong suit at all. But, and I know I've said this before, I'm going to try harder.

I really can't even catch you up on all that has happened because I don't remember! My memory is awful and I seems to have passed this fine quality on to Valerie! Sorry, Val.

So I'll just say that we went to Seattle in February to spent time with our three beautiful granddaughters. We had a wonderful time. They are growing so fast. I miss them and wish we could all live closer. Or one of us could win the lottery so we could afford to visit every week! My fantasy is to buy a house in Seattle so we could summer there and winter here in Arizona! I really don't think that's asking to much, do you?

We are now planning a trip to Vegas. We usually go in August and meet up with Barron's brother and sister. This year we have decided we need some alone time. So we're going in April while it's still cool. The problem in August is that it's just to dang hot and we don't get to walk around outside very much. We love doing that. Anyway, we're looking forward to some time alone. You know, alone........me, Barron, and a slot machine! KIDDING....sort of!

It'll be interesting to see how long I go before I blog again. At least I haven't gone a whole year! Later....love you all.

2009-07-28T05:16:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week with Taylor and Addy over. I've forgotten how much work having two little girls can be! It makes me wonder how I ever managed with my own six....all I can imagine is that I must have been fantastic! And much younger.....much more energetic.....etc.

We are leaving Thursday morning for Vegas. I'm not looking forward to the drive.....actually maybe I am. I should start being more positive about it. It'll be great to have Barron's undivided attention! I won't have to compete with the garage, or yard work, or other things he wants to do around the house! And the scenery between here and Vegas is beautiful! I do love the desert and mountains.

I wanted to get my hair cut and colored before our trip to Vegas. So, as usual, all I had to do was mention it to Valerie. She came over yesterday and did it for me. What would I do without you, Val? Thank you for always being so willing to do my hair. I love you.

I'll post again after our trip.

P.S. Cheryl, you're in our prayers!

Taylor and Addy

2009-07-23T19:59:00.000-07:00

This week I've been babysitting Fran Bylinowski's granddaughter, Taylor and Addy. I have to admit, I've been having a ball. It does make me miss Cheska though! We have played outside in the water, imagined trips to Disneyland together, gone to Taco Bell for lunch, played restaurant, and painted each others fingernails! It's been great fun. I had to share a couple pictures with you.....

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WOW....Where Have I Been?

2009-06-23T01:26:00.000-07:00

It's been much to long since my last post. I was just really getting frustrated with "dial-up" and taking hours to post if I wanted to add a picture. Then Valerie started a family blog and I ended up just going with it. So, for now, I'm back. Thanks Cheryl....you mentioned that you missed me posting on this blog....so this is for you!

Since my last post, we have added a new granddaughter to our clan. Seth and Barb were blessed with little Penelope on Feb. 18. She is beautiful. We were able to travel to Seattle in April to see her. We enjoyed a wonderful visit with Seth's family. They spoiled us rotten....so much for us going to help them out! We got to get to know Barb as well as wee Penelope and love them all so much and are really missing them.

We also got to spend time with Nathan, Clare, Cheska, and little Lolly. Another beautiful family! I couldn't believe how much Lolly had grown in just over a year. She's a little girl now. But, to show her love for grandma, she waited until I got there to take her first step! That was an exciting time for me! Cheska is 9...turning 10 in Sept. She is learning Irish Dancing and wowed us with her abilities...and she sings like an angel. Nathan and Clare also spoiled us and we are missing our Seattle families. So much so that we are going back in August!!!!

More good news....our Sarah is pregnant! She is due January 1st. Another grandchild that lives much to far away...Oklahoma. I now call Jon, Papa John! He loves it!

Anyway, it's late and I'm tired. I'm going to try and do better at posting on this blog. It's hard for me to remember yesterday let alone the past year so that's my memory or the time I've neglected blogging. Hope everyone is well and I look forward to hearing from you!

My Sweetie Little Lolly

2008-11-05T17:50:00.000-08:00

Look how cute my darling little granddaughter is. I thought being a mommy was fun, I had no idea how fun being a grandma would be. Too bad I only get to see her grow up over the Internet...sad day for me. Maybe one of these days I'll have a grand-baby that lives closer to me...hint hint ;)

Theresa The Invalid

2008-10-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Monday I spent the night with Theresa. She wouldn't give me her bed so I made her share it. She actually was very nice about it. I even managed to get a good two thirds of it without her complaining AT ALL!! I think she knew that she would be at my mercy the rest of the week and knew better than to rock the boat!

Her surgery went very well. The doctor talked to me right after and said that the tear in her tendon was substanual and she had every right to complain about the pain she had been in. Plus it was fill with fluid which didn't help matters. He even took a picture of it that he'll show her next week at her apt. Said he would make her a copy for her scrapbook....or blog!

I brought her back to my house from the hospital so she could recover here. So far she's been really good. Although if she doesn't stop saying, "Mom could you please"....I'm going to gag her and put her in the closet for the rest of the week! Not really. Just gag her. Not really. Truth be told, she's been really good. Although she did throw up in the car on the way home....that was swell. She barfed into a plastic bag and I got to look at it all the way home! YUCK. Then she threw up again this morning when dad helped her into OUR bed....good thing she had a bowl and managed to get it all in there....unlike when Nathan pukes! Good times.

When we finally got out of bed, I made her a nice breakfast. She took two bites and thought she would throw up again. And I really knocked myself out making a nice breakfast. Valerie loves my breakfasts and would NEVER say it made her sick!

It's actually been nice having her here. It's company through the day. I even made her play a game with me this morning. We played "Sequence". I won the first game and she won the second one. We both like to win so it was brutal with neither of us giving the other a break!

She really does whine alot. I came into the bedroom to blog and she wanted to come in so she wouldn't be in the family room alone. It sounds inocent enough but in reality, moving her is such an ordeal. I have to help her up, give her the crutches, and make sure she doesn't fall. No lie, it takes ten minutes to move her ten feet! She has to take a break every couple of feet and cries over how hard it is. BooHoo! Getting her into a chair or on the couch is fairly entertaining. She positions herself in front of the chair and lets herself flop down. My furniture was already on the way out but this will insure I get new stuff alot sooner. If you think Theresa should go halves on it, please let me know and we'll all sign a petition!

I spent most the day Monday cleaning my house then Theresa invaded! When I mentioned to her that my house was a bomb since her arrival she said, "Mom, I had foot surgery, not a lifestyle change"! Little brat!

Anyway, this is it for now.....me signing off and looking forward to Saturday when I get to take Theresa home! If anyone can come over and help in the meantime, I'll give you a dollar!

Words of Wisdom from Dad!

2008-10-16T08:50:00.001-07:00

I just got off the phone with dad. He told me that he had been thinking on his way to work this morning and had come up with this quote....

"A testiment to the Lord is manifest in the life you live".

I think that's a pretty neat quote and I wanted to share it with you.

Have a great day!

This Can't Be Right!!!

2008-10-12T14:59:00.000-07:00

Last month dad had a doctor's apt. I went with him and listened as the doctor told him that he has high blood pressure and needs to be on meds. You know your dad, there was no way he was going to take meds......he insisted that he doesn't have high blood pressure. So, he told the doctor that for the next month he was going to work out more often, watch his diet, and keep track of his blood pressure daily. He's done fairly well with the first two and excellent with the third....every day he sees the doctor at Honeywell and has his blood pressure taken. It's always around 126/77. So, thank goodness he didn't take the meds because I understand that once you start taking high blood pressure meds, you're on them for life! In the meantime, I talked him into buying our own blood pressure machine. Well, his blood pressure is great! Mine on the other hand is AWFUL! If the doctor saw it, he'd insist I go on meds! NO WAY! Instead, I'm going to work out more often, watch my diet, and keep track of my blood pressure. I'm giving myself a month. If I can't get it to improve, I'll conceed and see the doctor. OUCH.

Dad had to work today so I went to church by myself. It was a great meeting. The sacrament meeting talks were on enduring trials and the peace of Christ. The same kind of things were discussed in both Sunday School and Relief Society. Really a good day. I came away feeling spiritual feed. I have realized over the past year that we're given trials to make us stronger. I think sometimes we see trials as a punishment. I've been reading in Helaman and I've learned that the Lord gives us trials to keep us close to him. When things are easy we tend to neglect our relationship with the Lord. But, at the first sign of trouble, we're on our knees! At least that seems to be the way it works for me. Trials keep us humble. Amen to that. One of these days I hope to learn that lesson well enough that I won't need the trials to stay close to that Lord. I can finally say that I'm thankful for the trials I've had over the past few years. I would like to think that I'm a stronger, better person because of them. I KNOW that the Lord answers prayers because he's answered mine. I also know that He's always with me....even when I don't think He is. I love the gospel! My children are my joy and I love you all.

Conference

2008-10-05T16:39:00.000-07:00

Well, another conference has come to an end. Kind of sad. We stil haven't been able to watch what we recorded from Saturday. This week for sure. All in all, a great conference. Dad and Sam went to the Priesthood session and they both really enjoyed it.

After the first session this morning there was a comercial about keeping a journal on-line. So I went to the site and signed up! It great! You really have to do it. It's going to be so much easier than writing in a book. They even spell check it for you! Anyway, check it out.

My Favorite Dog at Dogtoberfest

2008-09-29T09:31:00.000-07:00

Cutest Dog at Dogtoberfest

2008-09-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

2008-09-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

Downtown Prescott where sleeping dogs lie

2008-09-29T06:06:00.000-07:00

Sixty Degrees In Prescott!

2008-09-29T05:05:00.000-07:00

Dad and I planned all week to go to Prescott on Saturday and maybe even stay the night if we could find a hotel that was affordable. That's about as spontaneous as we get these days. Any-way we went, we stayed, we came home!

It was great fun! Mostly just nice to have some alone time with dad. The drive there was so nice. I LOVE Arizona.......unlike my older boys! I think Arizona is beautiful. I love the landscape, the mountains, the sunsets.......I love it all. I also love Ontario.......but right now we're talking Arizona!

It's neat watching the landscape change from desert to high desert. And every half hour or so I like to roll the window down and check the weather outside. It's so much cooling in Prescott than Phoenix. And the closer we got the more cloud cover there was.

At one point, dad and I were sitting on a bench on the cornor in Prescott and within 15 minutes the temperature went from 78 degrees to 66 degrees. We even sat in the rain for a couple of minutes.......more of a hard sprinkle than a rain, but it was fun. The clouds turned black, there was a bit of thunder (or as I like to call it, Funder), it rained a bit, and the temp dropped!

Anyway, we walked downtown Prescott for a couple of hours and enjoyed being outside in the nice weather. Dad even bought himself a hat! How unlike him, eh? Our day was fun, relaxed, and very enjoyable. We even went shopping at Target! My kind of day!

When we got up on Sunday morning, it was much warmer than the day before. We went to "Dogtoberfest". That was really cute. Dogs all over the place.

Sam stayed home on his own and had a good time also. We got home in time to take him to church. Then I called Sarah and her and I were on the phone ALL evening! Over four hours talking, sharing photos, and playing pool on the computer. It was great fun. By the end, poor Sarah just wanted to hang up, shower, and go to bed. But Sam, who was now home from church, convinced her to play one game of pool with him so he could beat her (I couldn't). Long story short, SHE WON!

Cheri called last night and told us that Jim had a heart attack yesterday afternoon. I think he's ok now but keep him in your prayers.

Now it's Monday morning, dad and Sam have gone to work, and my day is also beginning. I'm looking forward to a great day! Love you all.

Happy Birthday, Heather

2008-09-20T23:16:00.000-07:00

We had a really fun and nice day today. Heather's family threw her a surprise birthday party this afternoon. It was fun being around her family and seeing some of her friends that I know. Her parents are great and they always make me feel so good. And I love her kids. It's wierd to think that when we first met, Griffin was just a newborn baby! Now look at him! Her daughters are more beautiful every time I see them. I can't believe that Meghan is getting married in just three weeks...how freaky is that? They are all great kids and it was fun being with them. I seemed to be the only one with a camera so I made sure that I got a picture of Heather with all seven of her kids. It was a great time. Heather and I have been through so much together.....

the best of the best and the worst of the worst. I'm so thankful for her friendship.

Dad's New Towels

2008-09-19T09:53:00.002-07:00

I've been trying to download this pictures for three days now...hope it works this time or I may just call it quits!

And The Winner Is....VALERIE!!!

2008-09-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Valerie! You have just won a fun filled day with mom! I know you're busy and probably don't have the time so.......instead, you get to pick what I serve for dinner on your birthday! It's on a Sunday this year, so it works out perfectly. Let me know what kind of cake you want too. Sorry Theresa, you'll have to have what Val's having. Next time be the first to answer the quiz question if you want to pick! So, this is an open invitation to all the kids, dinner at my house on Oct. 19th to celebrate birthdays for Theresa, Nathan, and Val.

The New Bedspread

2008-09-18T13:52:00.002-07:00

OoooAhaaa, Target, my favorite!

2008-09-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

I went out this afternoon to Target. All I needed was a "ring" for the quiet book I'm making for Lolly. Of course, I can't go, get just what I need, and leave. Target isn't just a store, it's an experience! Especially when they have lots of new mark-downs! So, as usual, I walked the circuit! What fun. Backpacks are 75% off...let me tell you, it's hard to walk past and not buy one when the price is SCREAMING at me! But I did...not without first texting Theresa and Valerie to ask if they needed one (birthdays are coming up and "clearance" stuff is always a big hit!). At least for the credit card! Oh, no! I should have texted Nathan too as his birthday is also on the horizon! Nathan, if you're reading this, let me know!

Ok, pay attention, there's going to be a quiz at the end of this post...

Also, all their linens and bathroom stuff was on sale. So, I bought us a new bedspread. First off the old one is getting ratting...really...the stuffing is coming out! Also, I'm tired of it. It's been around for over five or six years now! BORING! Our bed needed a facelift! Naturally, I've been keeping my eyes on the look-out for a while now. Well, you guessed it, today was the day! Unfortunately, the selection was pitiful at best. Two colors to choose from. BUT, I found a fairly nice, much needed bedspread. Regular price, $49.99. My price, for being at the right place, at the right time, $12.48! That's right, boys and girls...$12.48! You heard me correctly, I said $12.48! Let me say again, also, I LOVE TARGET!!!

At first I debated because the color wasn't exactly what I had in mind. But the price was right. And I figured for $12.48, I couldn't go to wrong. Well, I got it home, put it on our bed, and I think I really like it...now I just have to make sure dad likes it. Not that he really has an opinion on this sort of stuff, but it's always nicer if he likes it also. I'm sure when he finds out it only cost me $12.48 he'll LOVE it!

I'm also posting pictures of a couple of towels I've made dad in the last little while. Mind you, they weren't as expensive as the $12.48 I paid for the bedspread! I found these at Walmart for $2.00 each. Dang, I'm good! No wonder dad keeps me around!

Ok, quiz time. How much did I pay for our new bedspread? The first one to comment back on this blog with the correct answer, wins! This is NOT an open blog question so you'll be on the honor system!

UPDATE: Pictures not downloading right now for whatever reason so I'll post them later.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JON

2008-09-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

Just a quick happy birthday greeting going out to Jon! When we talked to him he and Sarah were eating Mexican food...his favorite! He did manage to get Sarah to a real restaurant as Sarah would have taken him to Taco Bell! She's her daddy daughter! Actually, Barron is always really sweet at taking me somewhere nice for my b-day.

I was looking at different blogs today and came across a very neat quote. I wrote it down so I could blog it! This is to my family...

If I know what love is, it's because of you.

I love you all! Happy Birthday, Jon.

Remembering

2008-09-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

Until an hour ago, I hadn't realized that today is 9/11. I happened to turn the TV on and I'm watching the History channel..."The Day The Towers Fell". I've seen it several times and it never ceases to amaze me how those images put me right back to that day. I remember thinking how surreal it all was. How could this be happening in the U.S.?

That morning Barron and I were still in bed. Val and Sam were getting ready for school. The phone rang and I answered it. Sarah, who was living in New York, called to tell us that a plane had just crashed into one of the Twin Towers. It was a short conversation as we immediately turned the television on. I don't think we had it on more than five minutes when we saw the second plane hit the second tower. It was so hard to digest what was going on. Suddenly there was talk about it being a terrorist attack and no one knew if or when another plane would target another place. We debated about having the kids go to school. I don't remember how we came to the conclusion to let them go, I just remember that they went. I don't remember the time frame but then the Pentagon was hit. Then the first tower fell and I remember thinking that if the first one fell, the second one was going to fall as well.

I was glued to the TV for the next month or more. I must have watched that plane hit the second tower a hundred times. It was so unbelievable. The news reports were bleak at best. The hospitals were expecting hundreds of patients and they waited and waited and waited. The hospitals never got the flood of patients they expected...there were few survivors. That night I heard a report that there were children who hadn't been picked up from daycare.

I hate remembering that day. It's so sad. Our country changed. I hate to admit it but that day I learned not to trust anyone who looked like a Muslim. Even when we went to Vegas a few weeks ago, I noticed that there were several young guys that looked like they were Muslims waiting for the same plane as us. I got myself into such a panic! They ended up leaving and I felt better. I HATE that I think and feel that way.

Anyway, I just wanted to remember and pay tribute to all those who died or lost loved ones that day.... to firefighters and police who died trying to save others...and to the human spirit that helps us to move on. I don't know anyone who died or anyone who lost someone from 9/11 but I do feel like I mourn with those people. I think in some small way, we all lost someone that day.

I haven't really been able to capture my thoughts very well....maybe there are no words. I'm thankful for my testimony of the gospel. That testimony helps me to understand why bad things happen to good people. I do love this counrty and I'm proud to be an American!

What The.....

2008-09-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting for two days for a comment on my blog....I live for comments! So I got on this morning and found this comment from Sarah (AKA "poopie").

poopie said...
FINALLY!!! Yeah photos are great, but it was getting painful waiting for a new blog from one of you guys!! I miss you!

HELLO!!!!!!

I can't believe you, Sarah, of all people would write that!! According to my records, you haven't posted in.....

4 weeks!!!

I'm not complaining.......oh, wait, YES I AM COMPLAINING!!! Post a blog every now and again or at least pick up the phone and call!!! Did I mention that I love you too? Well I do.

This blog is also intended for THERESA!! Val...good job with the blogging!

"Hail" Freezes Over In Tolleson!

2008-09-10T06:10:00.000-07:00

WOW...It's been a while. How time flies. I've thought about posting many times over the past couple of weeks but I think I figure I need a picture to go along with my post...so I haven't. Not that nothing has happened because it has...just no pictures.

Yesterday, however, I got pictures! I hope they work out on this blog. Anyway, Sam and I were sitting watching a movie ("Grace Is Gone", very sad but really good) and Barron was on the computer. I noticed it had started to sprinkle a bit and by the time I informed Barron to the time he acknowleded my comment it was POURING! Then we realized that there were little pieces of hail in the rain. Then the wind started and there were these little tapping sounds on the windows...just as we figured out the hail was now large enough to make a noise when hitting the window the speed and intesity of the hail picks up. It was a bit scary because they were hitting so fast and so hard that we were worried that a window might break! The storm only lasted for about 5-6 minutes but the rain was heavy enough that it almost crossed the road in front of the house and there was enough hail that we could scoop it up in our hands...it was the size of a large pea. I've never seen hail that big so it was exciting...especially to see it here in the valley! Anyway, hope you like the pictures!

My Day!

2008-08-28T23:52:00.000-07:00

I keep thinking that I need to write something on this blog but my life really isn't that interesting. I'm NOT complaining at all......I have learned that boring is a good thing.

But I did have a good day today. I haven't been in a cleaning mood for many months now and one finally hit me today! Our bedroom is a disaster! So I went to town........it's still not finished but it will be tomorrow. I couldn't believe the dust in here, I'm sure it was half an inch high! I did my wall unit today so tomorrow I'll get dad's in order. And I need to dust the window sills. They are especially bad. Bored yet?

Dad and I were getting ready to go to the gym tonite when I got a call from Cheryl. She's a young mother in our ward with cancer. I'm the compassionate service leader in our ward and I'm in charge of making sure that Cheryl is being taken care of. It's been a great experience for me on many levels. Getting to know Cheryl has been a blessing. Her courage is remarkable. I'm not sure I could handle what she's going through with the same grace as she. It's not just that I've never seen her without a smile.......there's something else but I'm not sure what it is. I do admire her and have really learned to love her. The women in our ward have been great. I usually have three meals a week going into Cheryl's home. I would say that 95% of the time, these women thank me for calling and giving them an opportunity to serve! WOW. I've done this calling before and it was like pulling teeth trying to get people to take a meal to someone. So it's been a true example of love and kindness to me. Makes me think of the scripture, "In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these.....ye have done it unto Me". I have to admit that I have never thanked someone for asking me to take a meal to a family in need! So it's been a good lesson for me.

Anyway, she called and told me she was going to enrichment tonite. Her husband works nights so it meant taking three kids with her. She had mentioned earlier in the week that she wanted to go but the thought of taking three kids on her own was hard. I told her that I'd go with her if she decided to go. So instead of gym, I went to enrichment with Cheryl. I have to tell you here that this is only the third time I've gone in the four years we've been in this ward!

Well, both Cheryl and I had a great time. The meeting was on service. Everyone wrote down a service that they were willing to do on an index card. All the cards were put in a jar and we sat in a circle taking turns picking a card from the jar. They did it like we do our white elephant gifts. You could either choose a new one or steal someone else's. There was everything from a meal, to cleaning, to babysitting, to homemade Christmas cards! My service was to make a dessert.....the bishop's wife got it. So this Sunday I'm making their dessert. I'm getting a carrot cake from a gal in our ward who got the recipie from a professional chef. She can bring me the cake but isn't allowed to share the recipie. Well, I make a dang good carrot cake so I'm looking forward to seeing if it's as good as mine! It'll be fun.

When we were coming home the lightening was all around us! It was so pretty! So, you know me, I had to come home and take a picture of it! It took a bit of doing but I did manage to get some pictures! So that's what I'm posting tonite.

Anyway, I'm thankful today for good examples! And I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve in the relief society. I love the Lord. Have a great day!

2008-08-22T00:53:00.000-07:00

126 Sleeps Until Christmas!

2008-08-22T00:33:00.000-07:00

It's 12:35am. I went right to sleep but then woke up and had to go "potty". Now I'm wide awake. If it were Friday night I'd be able to wake dad up to keep me company! Actually, if it were Friday night, I'd just be going to bed!

I didn't get a chance to blog yesterday so I'll do it now. I had a great day. Sarah called first thing in the morning. We didn't get to talk long but it was nice to hear her voice. Then I called her back last night. So we had a good visit.

Later in the morning, Clare called. So I got to talk to her, Cheska, and Nathan. I even heard Lolli in the background! Plus we did the webcam thing and Clare sent me some more pictures! I love when that happens!

I managed to get Nathan to at least think about coming home for Christmas. I wish money didn't always have to be such an issue. It's so much cheaper to have them come before Christmas.........but I WANT CHRISTMAS! With all my kids! Sarah and Jon could probably come for Christmas because that's when Jon's leave is. Seth worries that Barb will be to pregnant so doesn't want to risk it.........besides, we'll be there after the birth of their baby. I'm going to work this out! Come hell or high water this is going to work! I hope. Do you guys realize there's only 126 sleeps until Christmas?!!! Wouldn't it be great to all be together this year...........along with Cheska and Lolli!!! Let's make it happen.

I love you all!

Dinner at the Chinese Cultural Center

2008-08-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

Today we all met at the Chinese Cultural Center and had dinner at the buffet there. Dad ate frog legs and duck! Theresa and Valerie tried a clam. Sam decided that he couldn't eat anything that still looked like it did before it died. Chris enjoyed his sushi. And I played it safe and stuck with tried and true dishes! We had alot of fun being together. It seems like these times are getting fewer and farther between. A great time was had by all!

My Dad

2008-08-16T10:32:00.000-07:00

This past Tuesday my dad had surgery. The carodid artery in his neck was more than 80% blocked. So they made an incision from behind his ear down to his collar bone. Poor dad! They opened the artery and cleaned it out, then stitched it together again. The doctor said he was a stroke waiting to happen. He was suppose to go home yesterday but he was having trouble swallowing and then he felt like he was struggling to breathe. So they put him on steroids and kept him another day. He should be going home (they are summering in Richvale,Utah) this morning. Mom sent me a picture of his battle wound so I'll post it with this blog. Anyway, please keep him and my mom in your prayers. Get better, dad! I love you.

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Our Las Vegas Trip

2008-08-12T05:39:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Vegas was so great. We had a really good time. We have decided that flying is the only way to go. It's faster for us to fly to Vegas than drive to Theresa's or Val's! Anyway, it was nice to get there so fast. When we got our car, we got an upgrade because I'm a travel agent! We went from a compact to a mid-size car for the same price. When we got our hotel, we got an upgrade because I'm a travel agent! We went from a standard room to a room on the corner which is not only bigger but has windows on two sides, and a jacuzzi tub. It was great! We also used my concierge service for all sorts of stuff.........to see if our flight was on time, how do we get from here to there, where is a Walmart. Sounds dumb but we loved it!

Friday night we went to a show and saw "American Superstars". It was so fun, and we had front row seats! We saw Elvis, Tim McGraw, Michael Jackson, Rod Stewart, and a couple others that I can't come up with right now! My favorite was Michael Jackson. I love watching him perform. He was a great entertainer! We sat next to a family from South Africa and had a nice visit with them before the show. After the show we went to Eldon's hotel room and visited with his family for a bit.

Our hotel room was on Freemont St. so we also watched the lights that first night. We barely made the last show! It was great. They had the whole thing to the song, "Bye Bye Miss. American Pie". We loved it. The light show is the reason we stay on Freemont and we only saw two shows the whole time we were there. Sad.

On Saturday morning we decided to have breakfast on our own so we went downstairs thinking we'd eat somewhere on Freemont St. They had a breakfast for $5.99 or a breakfast buffet for $6.49. We had already decided no buffets but then thought maybe we should because they would have fresh fruit. So we went for the buffet only to find out that it was now $11.99 because it was Saturday! Long story short, we went to the main strip and ended up not eating until after 11am and sharing a sub at Subway! We now know where Val gets her indecisivness from! Sorry Val.....it's your dad!

After "brunch" we decided to walk the strip. It was HOT but fun. I thought I did ok but I think I ended up with a touch of heatstroke. When we met everyone for dinner I hadn't eaten since subway and I felt like I was going to throw up and or pass out. So dad and I went and sat down rather than stand in line with everyone else. Cheri got me a drink (she had to threaten a waitress) and that made me feel alot better. So I think I was dehydrated. By the time we got our table I was much better but not feeling like a buffet. I did get one plate of food and did eat it.

But by then I was working on this horrible headache. I managed to stick it out for a couple of hours then had dad take me back to the hotel. We did have a great time there though. It's always fun being at dinner with Eldon and Cheri! I wish we could have had more time there.

Sunday we slept in until after eleven and freaked out because we were suppose to be out of the hotel by noon! Met the gang at Eldon't convention center and had a pot-luck lunch. That was fun. We said good-bye to Cheri and Jim (those crazy people drove). Then Eldon went back to class and we took Carol and Chevy to the Fashion Mall............where we watched a fashion show! Then back to their hotel. When Eldon got back they all went swimming and dad and I took a nap. After that we said our good-byes and left. Had dinner, returned the car, and sat at the airport for two hours waiting for our plane. Got home after 2am. Thank goodness dad had the day off because we slept till 11am again! Anyway, we had a good time! Thanks Theresa for staying with Sam and driving him all over hell's half acre!

Arizona Monsoon Sunset!

2008-08-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been so into clouds and sunsets! They are just so beautiful. They always have been but now that I have a decent camera, I just seem more aware of them.....or at least more aware of capturing them.

This picture was taken last night around 7pm, just before the sunset. It looked like we were going to get a much needed storm but we didn't. Other parts of the valley did, but we were passed by. Oh well, maybe next time.

The picture doesn't do it justice. Like snowflakes, I've discovered that no two clouds are alike. There was so much red in the sky last night, it was incredible! I love the beauty that surrounds us. We are so blessed.

Have an awsome day!

Nathan & Lolli

2008-08-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

Lolli-gag

2008-08-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

My Morning With Nathan & Lolli-pop!

2008-08-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

Just a quick blurb (is that even a word?). I got a call from Nathan this morning and he was home babysitting Lolli. He called to see if I wanted to see her on the webcam.....DUH! Of course I did! Anyway, it was so fun watching her. She's growing so fast and it made me miss her and Cheska. Lolli is rolling over, and getting up on her hands and knees and trying to crawl! It's the cutest thing. She seems so strong to me. And CUTE......I've never seen a more cute baby (other than my own!). Her hair seems to be growing in nicely.....no more bald spots that I could see. I even got to talk to her on the phone. She smiled so big for me. Then when Nathan took the phone away, she started grabbing for it! My head is swelling!
I'm hoping that when we get some more ram put in this computer that I'll be able to post some more pictures of Lolli. I'll try with this post but it may or may not work.
And of course, it's always nice seeing how proud her daddy is of her! Nathan is a wonderful dad. I always knew he would be. This afternoon he was going to take Lolli to her aunt's and then take Cheska and three other kids to the science center. He loves that stuff!
That 20 minutes made my day! Thanks, Nathan.
Dad and I are getting excited for Vegas! Only three more sleeps! Dad is so in need of some time off and away from Honeysmell.......or Honeyhell and he calls it.
That's it for now. I love you guys!

Theresa To The Rescue

2008-08-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

This was a fun week-end for me. Especially Saturday. I went to a World Ventures convention all day.......from 9am-3pm. I went with Heather and her parents. I learned alot and hope to get this business up and running SOON!
Sam had a date with Heather's daughter Amilyn that afternoon. So.....poor Theresa gave up her Saturday morning to sleep in so that I could drop Sam off at her house on my way to Heather's. I just couldn't see driving all the way to Mesa in the am, just to go home, pick Sam up and drive him back. Also, that way Amilyn didn't have to drive all the way to Tolleson.
Sam had a great day because Theresa and him spent most of the day together. They always have a good time messing around.
Then instead of driving home just to turn around again to pick Sam up, I stayed with Theresa most of the evening! I'm sure Theresa is familyed-out!
After Sam left I offered to take her to dinner. Well, both of us are dieting so she had other plans. Instead we went to the fruit market to get stuff for a stir-fry. The market was packed! I'm sure we spent half an hour in line! But it was well worth it. We went back to her place and she made me an incredible stir-fry. I told her it rivaled dad's......he makes an awsome stir-fry. The jury is out as far as who's is best! After dinner we talked, laughed, and watched u-tube videos.
Thanks Theresa, for a great evening.

Fun With Val & Mom

2008-07-31T18:26:00.000-07:00

I had a great day today. Val came over early this morning and we mostly just played all day long. And, we both stuck to our diets! How great is that. I love when one of the girls comes over to play.
As always, we ended up at Joann's. We love that place and I had two coupons. Val ended up buy fabric to make a quilt for her bed. Twelve different prints of black/white fabric. It's going to look awsome. We came home and cut out all the squares so now she's taking them back to her house to sew them together. Sarah, she saw the quilt you helped me finish and it inspried her! We are turning into a bunch of quilting "bee's"!
When dad and Sam got home she cut dad's hair. Now she's on her way to Gary's. I miss her already.
I'm really looking forward to our Vegas trip. One week from tomorrow!

A Great Muffin Recipe!

2008-07-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

I made muffins on Sunday and we really liked them so I decided to share the recipe.

Breakfast Cereal Muffins

1 egg
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup honey
1 cup flour
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
3 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
2 cups breakfast cereal (Raisin Bran, All Bran, Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, etc)

Preheat oven to 350. Grease 12 medium muffin cups. Beat egg and whisk together with oil, milk, and honey. In another bowl combine the dry ingredients; mix well. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until flour is moist (batter should be lumpy). Fill muffin cups 2/3 full and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

I doubled the recipe and added ripe bananas, blueberries, coconut (it was a weak moment for me), dried cranberries, and pecans. For cereal I used Bran Flakes, All Bran, Cinnamon Life, and Grape Nuts. Yes, you guessed it, I was into putting in as much fiber as I could! They are so healthy, but GOOD! Let me know if you try this recipe. I've made it several times and they always turn out great. I think next time I'll try oatmeal.

2008-07-27T17:26:00.000-07:00

I just talked to Sarah. She was here visiting a couple of weeks ago and I already miss her. We had so much fun. Theresa came over one night and the three of us were up until 3am making quilts. Now she's home and has already made another one! Then Val came over and did her hair and we all had such a great time together. I'm really proud of Sarah as she has quit smoking. Now she has to get Jon to quit! I miss you, Sarah!

2008-07-27T15:15:00.001-07:00

OK, here goes.......my first post totally on my own! I'm use to Val doing this for me as I'm new at the blogging business.
This morning we went to church. It was really nice. I have to say that I do love going to church. I'm not always excited about getting up early but I always love being there. In Relief Society today our lesson was on being born again. Funny as I seem to always use the term "born again" to discribe people who I consider fanatics about religion. So, I've now repented.....and I'm working at being more Christ-like and less judgemental.
I talked to Seth last week and he gave me Feb. 24th for Barb's due date. We are excited about having another grandchild. Seth is going to be a great daddy! When I saw him with Lolli last March I knew a baby would be good for him. I'm just surprised he figured it out as soon as he did! We're (I'm) hoping for a boy this time around. The fact that this baby will be born perfect with no health issues goes without saying.....that's why I can hope for a boy!
We are also looking forward to going to LasVegas on Aug. 10th. We'll be hooking up with Eldon and his family, and Cheri and Jim. We do this every year and it's awsome! I love spending time with family!
Now that Val has got her sisters and I blogging I'm hoping that her brothers (or Clare and Barb) will jump on the band wagon and join us. It'll be a great way of keeping in touch. I will continue to look forward to my webcam sessions with Lolli and Cheska so this will NOT replace that!
Just a quick note to my kids.........all of them, including Jon, Chris, Clare, Cheska, Lolli, Barb, and our expected little bundle.........I love you all! You each bring me so much joy. Life without family would hardly be worth living. Thanks for being.

My First Post

2008-07-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Stellar-Hoff Blog. My most favorite number 3 daughter, Valerie, convinced me to start this blog so she could add me onto her list of friends. She felt that is was missing something without me on it. I'm just learning about the wonderful world of blogging, so bear with me as I try to figure this all out. I am hoping to be able to share with all of you some of my feelings and other ramblings about my day to day activities. I feel that it will make my hours of time spent on the computer a little more productive. Hope you enjoy. Blog ya later :)