The VIP's of Idaho

Getting lost on the way home

2011-08-19T21:57:00.001-07:00

We spent a wonderful week with Julie & Frank (my sister and brother-in-law) and their children at the first Eisenhauer Reunion. We had such a wonderful time renewing our relationships with all who attended. We spent time around a campfire every night, and visited every day. On Saturday, we finished up the big weekend by celebrating Frank & Julie's 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Everyone knows we always get lost in Portland, Oregon and it wasn't long until we found ourselves on the Oregon Coast. It was a beautiful day!! The sun was warm on the sand, and the waves brought in seashells. There was no wind and we didn't even need our sweatshirts on the beach. I loved it but Rick was not so happy.

Rick loves the coast because he likes to fly stunt kites. He had conveniently put in the kites in case we were close to a beach. We went to Lincoln City, the Kite Flying capital of the U.S. He was so sad there was no wind. We stayed over night and got up to a windless morning. So, we got in the car and headed up the coast on a search for wind.

We stopped along the way at a few beaches. Still no wind. As we drove into Seaside, Oregon, we reminisced of all the fun times we had enjoyed in Seaside. We walked the street with all the little tourist shops and worked our way to the beach. As we stepped on to the beach, we could feel the wind in our hair and see kites flying in the sky. The wind was blowing and Rick was in heaven. He flew his two kites for a couple of hours. We then packed up and headed for Idaho.

All in all, it was a wonderful week. We loved being with family.

We also loved enjoying the beach just the two of us.

I'm thankful for. . .

2010-11-22T22:11:00.000-08:00

SNOW DAYS!!!!! We just got word that there will be no school in the Twin Falls School District. Am I excited? Yes!! I don't remember the schools being closed since Ariane was in Kindergarten. She was so disappointed because it was just before Christmas and they had a Christmas program planned. Every day she would ask if she could go to school and cried when I told her there was no school today. (She did get to do their program, it was after the new year and was still wonderful.)
Anyhow, I am looking forward to waffles with Ari, Derek, and Brody tomorrow.
Yeah!! A snow day!!

BYU vs Nevada

2010-09-23T21:44:00.000-07:00

Hoping this weeks game with Nevada is more exciting than last week's game.

GOOOOO COUGS!!!!!

Fun At Grandma's

2010-09-19T15:53:00.000-07:00

This summer has been such a wonderful summer. I so enjoyed having Ari, Derek, and Brody here. Early last winter, I had promised that I would watch Drage for the summer. I really enjoyed having him here, along with everyone else.

One day, Ari and I were not so aware of what was happening outside. We knew the boys were outside having a good time. This is what we found.

It's always fun at Grandma's house!!!

(And, Yes, he was bathed and clean by the time Mom came to pick him up.)

"Bring it on"

2010-09-19T15:37:00.000-07:00

This morning, the bishopric was informed that next Sunday the three wards in our building will be realligned to make four wards and our bishopric would be released. We knew it was coming, as our bishop has been in his calling for over five years, however, it was quite a shock to me to know it was happening this next weekend. This has been a wonderful experience for me and especially Rick. He loves working in the Bishopric as a second councilor. Our home has been engulfed with the Holy Spirit through these last two years. And I have loved to see him grow and progress in the gospel. We love the men he has been working with. They have watched miracles happen and have accomplished much. It has been a good ride. I will miss all the blessings that we receive from service to our God in this capacity. Now, I look forward to what will be. Life changes, the work moves on. What will our role in this new adventure be? Well, as a member of the ward council said today, "Bring it on."

Chillaxin' at the Beach

2010-07-29T22:52:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite pictures I got at the Oregon Coast. The two people sitting on the log are my granddaughter, Audrey and my son, Justin. They are just chillaxin' on the beach watching grandpa fly his kite (the pink kite on the side of the picture). One of the few quiet moments on the beach during our trip.

All the Blogs you Missed

2010-07-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

I got up and got ready to go to the temple. As we drove up the road to ward the temple, I realized I had forgotten to take my recommend. We are so lucky to have it so close, that Rick and I decided to catch the 11:30 session instead, so I thought I would get this blog done.

I have had so many ideas for blogs, but haven't taken the time to actually blog. Here are some you missed.

Justin's 30th Birthday Wingding!

Spring Break--A trip to Nevada to bring Ari and Brody home for a week visit. (This included a stop in Salt Lake City to visit with Scott, Lyric, & Gregory)

A Thai Recipe using Hamburger!! Delicious!

Idaho Capitol Building!! aka The Castle--a visit with Justin, Becky, and Audrey and a tour of the capitol to prepare myself for our 4th grade field trip to Boise.

Schools out for Summer

Cleaning like crazy to prepare for the summer activities

A Greyhound ride to Las Vegas

Bringing Derek, Ari, and Brody to Idaho (Derek got a job in Twin Falls. They will be living with us until they decide what to do)

Gregory Visits for a week!! (this picture shows how Gregory can eat with his toes)

The LDS Missionaries move into the Basement

Williard Reunion at Newport Beach

Finally Warm weather, Maybe summer can start.

If you are interested in one of these blogs, let me know. I can try to catch you up. In the meantime, summer is finally here, things have settled down (as well as they could with a house full of people) and Summer vacation is here.

I think I had better head to the temple.

For My Grandchildren!!

2010-05-22T20:36:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to dance.

2010-01-23T08:48:00.000-08:00

After watching the dance video on Hannah's post, I remembered this "new version" of the poem, 'Footprints'. This will be a good place to put it so I don't loose it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. And, don't forget to dance.

FOOTPRINTS
A NEW VERSION

Imagine you and the Lord Jesus are walking down the road together.
For much of the way, the Lord’s footprints go along steadily, consistently, rarely varying the pace. But your footprints are disorganized stream of zigzags, starts, stops, turnarounds, circles, departures, and returns.
For much of the way, it seems to go like this, but gradually your footprints come more in line with the Lord’s, soon paralleling His consistently.
You and Jesus are walking as true friends.
This seems perfect, but then an interesting thing happens: Your footprints that once etched the sand next to Jesus’ are now walking precisely in His footsteps.
Inside His larger footprints are your smaller ones, you and Jesus are becoming one.
This goes on for many miles, but gradually you notice another change. The footprints inside the large footprints seem to grow larger.
Eventually they disappear altogether. There is only one set of footprints; they have become one.
This goes on for a long time, but suddenly the second set of footprints is back. This time it seems even worse! Zigzags all over the place. Stops. Starts. Gashes in the sand. A variable mess of prints.
You are amazed and shocked. Your dream ends. Now you pray: “ Lord, I understand the first scene with zigzags and fits. I was a new Christian. I was just learning. But you walked on through the storm and helped me learn to walk with you.”
“That is correct.”
“And when the smaller footprints were inside of Yours, I was actually learning to walk in Your steps and followed you very closely.”
“Very Good. You have understood everything so far.”
“When the smaller footprints grew and filled in Yours, I suppose that I was becoming like you in every way.”
“Precisely.”
“So, Lord, was there a regression or something? The footprints separated, and this time it was worse than at first.”
There is a pause as the Lord answers with a smile in his voice.
“You didn’t know? That was when we danced.”
To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven:
A time to weep, a time to laugh,
A time to mourn, and a time to dance.
(Ecclesiastes 3:1,4)

"I Love to See the Temple"

2010-01-16T08:38:00.000-08:00

My new picture is of the Salt Lake City Temple. This last December, I was able to join the YM/YW of Twin Falls 8th ward to enjoy a day at Temple Square for a youth conference. It was amazing. This picture was taken from the top floor of the Joseph Smith Building. What a beautiful building and day.

And the blanket of snow on this nativity shows the reason why the Savior wasn't born in December in the Salt Lake Valley.

Christmas Forever?

2010-01-14T22:03:00.000-08:00

Don't get me wrong, it's not that I don't enjoy Christmas, because I do. And it's not that I want that Christmas feeling to go on forever, because I do. But I would like to change my blog to something more timely. However, it's the end of the quarter and report cards await. So, until they are done and I am caught up......Merry Christmas!
(In other words, I know my blog is out of date!! I will try to change it soon)

Joy to Everyone

2009-12-13T22:13:00.000-08:00

Check out this link. It's a very good video and an awesome new Christmas song.

Joy to Everyone

Before I leave Thanksgiving Behind. . . .

2009-12-03T22:40:00.000-08:00

After reading Becky's blog, I reminisced to the wonderful holiday and all that happened. Here are some of my thoughts.

Wednesday, November 25
It was a busy day, filled with shopping and preparing for the Thanksgiving feast. As Scott, Lyric, and Gregory drove in I knew the holiday had officially started. And as we waited for Derek, Ariane, and Brody to arrive safely, I took my first picture of the holiday weekend, a turkey floating in a tub, and posted it neatly onto my blog.

Thursday, November 26
Picturable moments:

Marc and Derek returning from the YM Turkey Bowl
Grandchildren getting to know each other.
Justin, Becky, and sweet Audrey driving in for the big day.
A 28 lb turkey making it's entrance into the kitchen.
Drage taking a tumble down the stairs
Food galore and all of us enjoying it
Football in the background
Adult children visiting and renewing their friendships until 1:00 am.

But no pictures, just a picture of a turkey floating in a tub. Maybe tomorrow.

Friday, November 27

Picturable moments

Pumpkin Waffles
No early shopping, just laying around waiting for turns to the showers
Worried parents watching grandchildren play around my glass coffee table
Brody learning how to go down the stairs
Ari, Lyric, Ashlee, and Maudie were escorted to New Moon by Derek. How sweet that he was willing to make sure we got there safe.
Everyone bundled up and headed to Christmas in the Nighttime Sky (local fireworks)
Gregory's eyes when he realized he was on a school bus!!!
Brody warming up to his grandfather.
A late night of playing games and visiting.
Listening to my children laughing around the kitchen .What a beautiful sound!!!

But no pictures, just one picture of a turkey floating in a tub. Maybe tomorrow.

Saturday, November 28

Picturable moments:

Audrey helping Grandma with the Breakfast Burritos
Justin, Becky, and Audrey pack up and leave
BYU Blue day as we prepare for the game
Tacos for game day
Ariane and Derek packing up to go home
BYU win over Utah in Overtime
a quick trip to target for fun

But no pictures, just one of a turkey floating in a tub. Maybe tomorrow.

Sunday, November 29

A slow relaxing morning
Sacrament meeting with dad conducting
A roast that Marc and Ashlee donated
Goodbye's to Scott, Lyric, and Gregory

There are many memories etched into my mind from a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday along with one picture of a turkey floating in a tub.

May Christmas bring more pictures.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T23:35:00.000-08:00

Well, we are now into Thanksgiving Day, 2009 for 30 minutes. I think you should all know what is going on at my house.

I was so excited when I found this huge, 28 lb turkey at Winco today. But I forgot I would have to thaw it before I cooked it. After it sat in my kitchen sink for most of the day, Ashlee suggested it might be a good idea to put it into the tub. So here it sits, defrosting in my tub. If my calculations are correct, I should be pulling it out and getting it ready at about 2:00 am this morning. The good news is, that should be about the time Ariane and Derek will be driving in from Las Vegas, Nevada.

Lyric and Scott arrived at around 6:00 pm this evening and we had sloppy joes with them and Marc and Ashlee here at home.

tomorrow, Justin and Becky arrive. It is going to be a great Thanksgiving. I just hope we are able to have Turkey.

I guess I had better go check on the turkey.

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-17T19:59:00.001-07:00

We had a great time Labor Day weekend. I took two pictures, on of Saturday morning and the other one is Monday Morning. We enjoyed the weekend at the Bruneau Sand Dunes with Ed & Barbie Weigt and their three boys, Adam, Charles, & Cody and their friends. It was so good to spend time with all of them. Here are some things we did.

Saturday morning Breakfast Burritos and several attempts at setting up the satellite so we could watch the BYU-Oklahoma game on ESPN. (this was one of several places tried but not the last & final spot that gained the signal and gave us the enjoyment of the game.)

Other things that we did:

A trip to Walmart in Mountain Home
Buying watermelon and cantelope from two cute little girls at a fruit stand outside of Mountain Home
Lots of food
BYU Football game in Barbie's motorhome
More food
Trip to the Observatory where we looked through several telescopes. Looked at the moons on Jupiter, a nova, and close-up of the moon.
Searched and found scorpions with blacklights. Coolest thing ever, the scorpians are a flourescent green under the black lights.
A nice quiet sunday enjoying one another's company
A game with money moving all around the table a nd eventually into someone's pocket
A visit with Justin, Becky, and Audrey. (you'd think I'd get a picture of them)
Rick's Dutch Oven Cobbler (chocolate, it was amazing)
Monday was Breakfast and a quick gather up to head for home.

Here is Drage, the next weekend just chillin before the big BYU-Tulane game.

Go BYU

Camping????

2009-09-05T16:43:00.000-07:00

It's Labor Day weekend and we are camping. 'Camping?' you say but you are adding to your blog. I know. Crazy. This is not the way I grew up camping but I love it. We are at the Sand Dunes near Bruneau, Idaho. I am sitting in an air-conditioned motorhome watching the BYU-Oklahoma game and adding to my blog on Uncle Ed's computer. Ed & Rick spent the morning setting up the Direct TV dish so we could watch the game this evening.
Also, this is one of two state parks in Idaho that has free wifi for computers. How fun. We have all enjoyed checking our email and surfing the Internet.
Happy Camping.

Summer Vacation is over?

2009-09-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

I have been overwhelmed with school. Starting a new grade has really thrown me for a loop and I have struggled getting it together. It's sad to look back and realize that summer is over and school is in full swing. Here are the pics I was going to blog about. Enjoy.

For Ari & Lyric:

2009-07-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was the Vipperman Reunion. This family reunion is unique as we all come together on a Sunday afternoon and listen to some talented family play music. Others float the group, visiting and catching up. And, of course, there is always plenty of food. Some of you may not enjoy this blog but I know that Ariane and Lyric will love it.

Uncle Rod, Aunt Barbara, Aunt Carolyn & Uncle Don

(That's Sid Vipperman in the back between Aunt Carolyn

and Uncle Don. His son is to the right with Dale)

Becky & Audrey enjoying some dessert.

Tejay and Addey enjoying some quiet time. (Ashley didn't come)

Drage is enjoying his mom and dad's attention.

(That is Alexis White's head)

Justin & Chandra catching up.

Your Aunts enjoying one another.

We missed you girls. Maybe next year.

Handcart Trek

2009-07-01T23:45:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, Rick and I was invited to be a Ma and Pa for our Stake handcart Trek. It has been a concern for me every since I found out that we were going. A few years ago, I was over a 4th year hike and made a real fool of myself. It was very embarassing and I certainly didn't want to have it happen again. so, I tried to prepare for the trek. I asked lots of questions, and proceede to do some walking around the neighborhood. Here are some things I learned while on the trek.

Knee-high hose works!!! I wore a pair of knee-highs and then a sock and shoes. NO BLISTERS!!!! (which is more than Rick can say. H said he should have worn them)

This picture if of a friend of ours in our ward. He went barefoot the first and last day of the trek. Pretty amazing.

When I hear any stories about Rocky Ridge, I know what they are talking about. Although ours was not as long it was tough.

Ice cubes thrown into a stream doesn't come close tot he actual Sweetwater Crossing. However, Young men carrying their young women peers across a stream brought tears to my eyes, imagining the sight from the past.

I can't imagine taking small children across the U.S. in handcarts. I thought many times about my grandchildren and how hard it would have been having them along.

Four ounces of flour makes a very boring, small biscuit. When the gave the kids their 4 oz the leaders made them believe that was dinner. We were all glad to see the BBQ pork later.

Tears streamed down my face as they called the 'men' to be a part of the Mormon Battalion. Not for fear of what was ahead for me but what the men were doing for a country that had betrayed them. When the the prophet had asked them to do this, the men stepped forward to serve their country, their prophet, and their God.

When the leaders tell you the 2nd day should only be 6 miles, don't believe them. We walked 10 miles the second day.

Justin Elmer, a young man from our ward who is soon headed to St. Petersburg, Russia for a mission , is unbeatable in the stick pull.

Yes, the latrine truck can get stuck in the mud. (clear above its axles!)

One of my 'daughters' said, " I think if we had been in a handcart company that left early in the year, I probably could have been a part of a handcart company." I agree. Although we hear a lot about the trials of the Willie and Martin handcart companies, there were many who walked the trail and made it safely. They must have become very close as a group and were thrilled to arrive in the valley.

As we walked and walked and walked--and walked-- I thought how the saints must have felt knowing that each step led them to Zion and to a prophet of God. How exciting it must have been for them.

The youth of this dispensation are awesome!! Their testimonies are so strong. I personally had my own Sweetwater Hero in our family. He pulled the cart 90% of the time and bore a strong testimony at our devotional. The Lord's church is going to be in good hands.

The trek was trulya wonderful experience.

Early Father's Day

2009-06-11T20:34:00.001-07:00

Rick got his father's Day gift early. It arrived today and

the kids (Marc, Ashlee, and I) couldn't

wait for him to see it.

It's a tie!!

But wait, what's on the tie?

It's pictures of his Grandchildren!!

Grandpa is so excited!!

Look at those beautiful kids.

Happy Father's Day early Grandpa!!
We all love you!

Memorial Day weekend

2009-05-30T22:04:00.000-07:00

Grandchildren pictures on Memorial Day Weekend!!

This is a little long but has some fun spots in it. (This is proof that I shouldn't plan a career in filming)

Mother's Day with Audrey

2009-05-13T19:46:00.000-07:00

It's about time I wrote on my blog. I have several sets of pictures I want to share. I will start with the most current and add the others later this week.

For Mother's day, Justin, Becky, & Audrey came visitng on Saturday. Here are some pictures of our lovely princess in her new dresses Grandma & Grandpa gave her for her birthday.

Notice the lovely shoes grandpa had to get for his princess!!!

Here she is having her drink of choice (I believe it's Pepsi)

I believe the princess has left the building!

Here is my wonderful Mother's day gift from all my children. It's a new type of charm bracelet. There are little people inside that represent my grandchildren with birthstones and a "Best Grandma" medallion. Pretty cool! I LOVE IT!! Thank you!!

Conference Weekend

2009-04-05T10:36:00.000-07:00

When Ari and Derek told us they were coming to Utah for Derek's mission reunion, we couldn't resist going to Utah to enjoy our three grandsons first meeting together. Here are some pictures of the Saturday.

This is how all the boys crashed after a big day playing and then swimming at the end of the day.

Audrey and her purse

2009-03-27T22:09:00.000-07:00

Well, after seeing Gregory grab his purse and head to Grandma's house it reminded me that I had some similar pictures of Audrey I wanted to share.

Audrey put her purse over her shoulder and headed to the door. She was ready to leave.

Thanks goodness I have this lovely mirror beside the door. None of the grandchildren can ignore it. They all love to check it out.

I love Sundays!

2009-03-22T22:49:00.001-07:00

After reading Becky's post for a perfect 'math' day, I thought I should share my perfect Sunday.

Kissed Rick as he headed out of the door to his Bishopric meeting. (Ok, I admit it, he had to kiss me while I was still in bed before he left)
Layed in bed until 9 am
Checked the blogs, email, and Store Ads online
Rick comes home from meetings to find I haven't gotten ready for church yet. We have a bowl of cereal together and I head out to take a shower.
I followed Rick back to the church. ( we have to take two cars so I can come home after church. but we still like to walk in together)
I visit with all my sweet elderly sisters on the way in to the chapel and prepare for Sacrament meeting.
After Sacrament meeting I talked to friend who is moving. We cried together.
Atter church, I came home and baked chicken and mashed potatoes.
Got to visit with Justin on the phone
Rick comes home for dinner. We enjoy catching up for the days activities
I visit with Lyric about how to make egg sandwiches and the Draper Temple Dedication as I wave good-bye to Rick (he's on his way to do his home teaching)
Called Marc to find that he and Ashlee were also able to go to the Draper Temple dedication
Ariane calls for her Sunday visit. We talk about everything and everyone.
After I hang up from Ari, Rick and I rewind the DVR to watch Celebrity Apprentice
Graded a set of papers, put them in the grade book, checked the blogs and . . .
realized what a wonderful Sunday it has been.

I love Sundays!!!

Brody Loves Grandpa

2009-03-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

When we were visiting Ari and Derek for Brody's blessing, I shot this video. This video shows how our grandbabies love their Grandpa Vipperman. I'm taping the video and Grandpa is at the left talking to Brody.

It's a good thing I don't take this seriously. Brody has told me secrets no one else knows.

Drage Cameron

2009-03-04T20:32:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of DC Vipperman. Enjoy!

Proud Dad (son in BYU Cap)

Drage loves his Mom

Grandpa & Grandma Vipperman with Drage

Grandpa, doing what he does best

Drage is dressed and ready to go home.

Grandma enjoying the new grandson

Dad & Drage on their way home.

Drage was born on February 27 at 10:00 p.m.

He was 7 lbs, 20.5 inches long

Drage Cameron's name came from two former BYU Football players.

The nurse said his middle name should be 'stubborn'.

Welcome to the family Drage!!

Trip to Vegas--Brody's Blessing

2009-02-14T11:32:00.001-08:00

I am finally caught up with all the goings on here. So I am going to blog today. Here are my pictures of our trip to Las Vegas. It was so much fun!! And we had such a great time with family. Well, here, see for yourself.

Chocolate Fountain--Amazing

M&M Store--Tons of Fun

Brody glad to have family visit!

Big Announcement!!

2009-01-21T20:40:00.000-08:00

Tonight I went with a good friend to see Twilight. I have been worried about seeing the movie for fear it wouldn't live up to the pictures in my mind. I was pleasantly surprised. It was wonderful. I loved it. I would go again but instead, I'll just buy it when it comes out. Or maybe a Mother's day gift?

Anyhow, I have teased everybody about who they liked. My friend is definitely an Edward. She said she has always liked the 'bad boys'. I liked Jacob but he always seemed a little young for Bella. My favorite story is about Lyric being a 'Mike' person. As I watched the movie I could see why Lyric was a 'Mike'. He would be my choice of boy for my daughters to date.

However, tonight I found out who I am. I'm a

CARLISLE

WOW!

Zech & Emiley's Sealing

2009-01-17T21:17:00.000-08:00

Today, Rick and I drove to Rexburg to witness the sealing of Zech and Emiley Rios. What a wonderful experience. We enjoyed visiting with Donna and John. We got to meet Emiley's family and some of their friends. (Hannah, Zech's old roommates were really cute!! I tried to give them your number but I didn't have my cell with me. sorry) It was just a lovely day, in a lovely place, with lovely people. Here are my poorly taken pictures. Enjoy.

2009-01-10T16:23:00.000-08:00

A wonderfully quiet Saturday. I have been doing the weeks laundry and couldn't help notice all the shirts I was folding for dad. The picture is missing his two white dress shirts that have been hung neatly in the closet. These are the shirts left. What am I to do?

2009-01-09T22:25:00.000-08:00

To all of you who noticed I spelled school wrong, I thank you for not making some wise crack remark. This is quite amazing, considering my family and their quick wit. You won't be surprised to know that I didn't notice it until the other night. I was so embarrassed!! I almost changed it. Oh, well.

Back to Schol

2009-01-05T22:00:00.001-08:00

Well, today it was back to school. Yipppeeee!! Actually I was quite excited about the day. And then half way through it, after looking at tired, uncaring students I lost my enthusiasm. The good news, tomorrow is another day!! My students should be more rested and ready to learn. Hopefully I'll be more exciting and get them excited. I am going to show them a Rosa Park Video that is really good. It talks about how the blacks were treated and how they decided to do a bus boycott. Everytime I have shown it, the students are really into it. I'm looking forward to
it.

My highlight of the day was watching the 2 hour special of the Bachelor!! No, my highlight was discussing the 2 hour special with my daughters on Messsenger. Every one is welcome!!

Flashbacks of Christmas Vacation

2009-01-03T21:58:00.000-08:00

Although the new year started on Thursday, it really doesn't start for me until Monday. Here are some flash backs to my Christmas.

Mighty Fine in 2009!

2009-01-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

Bringing in 2009 with family at Shari's!!!

Happy New Year!!

Last Day of 2008

2008-12-31T09:49:00.000-08:00

Crazy, another year has passed and I spend the first three hours of the last day at the computer. I have got to get a life.
Please note the new song on my blog. It is an oldy from Rare Earth, "I just want to celebrate", a good way to bring in the new year.
I would like to share some odd thoughts about the past year:

1. The Bachelorette picked the wrong guy. I knew it wouldn't last. (Admit it Lyric and Scott, He was a fun, nice guy but no experience in commitment)

2. The United States is ready for a black president but not a mormon. Odd. However, blacks were freed before Utah was recognized as a state. A sad note, women didn't get the right to vote until long after both. A long wait for a woman president.

3. The motorhome was moved three times, the Williard Reunion, Labor Day weekend to Ketchum, and the move to the new house on Monroe Circle. A good reason why not to buy a new motorhome.

4. Lesson learned: Don't watch a marathon of Criminal Minds, it will blow your mind.

5. I can find my way around Vegas (or at least from the Riddle's to the Sunrise hospital)

6. The Twilight books are great reads, but can take up your whole summer.

7. Thanksgiving dinner at Golden Corral isn't too bad. But if you don't want to wait in line, go after 2:00 pm.

8. I may actually become a good teacher. I was really excited all summer for the new school year to start, and I have really never lost that enthusiasm.

9. I have had 4 new cell phones this year. I finally got the phone I had dropped in the toilet traded for one that worked better. Then Dad decided to get a new phone and ordered me a new phone on the new AT&T plan. It came back black, which was hard to swallow when his was a green. I threw a fit and dad sent that one back and ordered me a pink Sony/Ericsson. Over Christmas vacation, I somehow dropped it on the driveway and Marc and I drove over it. It worked but the face was broken. So back to AT&T for another pink phone. This is ridiculous. No wonder dad gets frustrated over my phone situation.

10. I finally decide to be a 'silent' BSU fan so I could cheer on a team that would win and then they lost!!! I give up. I think I'll start cheering for BYU Idaho!!!

Bring it on 2009!!

2008-12-20T22:25:00.000-08:00

Grandpa is in Heaven, He has another baby to hold.

Ariane and Derek arrived today to spend the holidays with us. We are so excited. We have got to hold our new grandson and enjoy his sweet spirit. Grandpa is proud of himself as he has gotten him to sleep. It's going to be a great Christmas.

Cleaning out the Cell Phone Camera

2008-12-03T21:33:00.000-08:00

So, I needed to take a picture with my cell phone the other day and it was full. I thought I would share some of those pictures I have taken this last month.

Gregory's Visit in November

Randy and Janice Nieffenegger at His mother's funeral.

This was just before we called Scott so President Neiffenegger

could visit with his missionary.

Fireworks from Christmas in the Nighttime Sky.

I wish I had more memory. I would of had more pics on this blog.

The Christmas Village is up!

2008-11-28T23:45:00.000-08:00

I know it's the 29th of November by the time I am doing this post, but my heart is still in the 28th of November. After I read Becky's blog about her anniversary, I put up my village. I felt like I had walked down memory lane with these two kids as I put up my village. Let me share some of those thoughts.

Justin and Becky bave me this piece after they were married. It was in remembrance of the year we both took Astronomy at CSI.

This piece was given to me the year I spent at the dentist office. I must of done a lot of complaining to get this piece

This was given to me last Christmas. It was to remind us of the year Justin and Becky started the adoption process. This year it, as I pulled the Law Office from it's box, I remembered the sweet little girl who is part of our lives. What a wonderful, growing year this has been.

Happy Anniversary, Becky & Justin!!

Happy Birthday, Ariane!!

2008-11-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

Twenty four years ago today,

Ariane Michelle Vipperman

was brought into this world.

The world has been a better place because of this angel.

Mom Vipperman, Ariane, & Grandma Mecham

Ari asleep at Grandma Mecham's House.

Happy Birthday Ariane!!

Your Mom and Dad loves you!!

Time for Bed!

2008-11-02T00:54:00.000-07:00

It's almost 2:00 am. It's a good thing we get to turn the clocks back tonight. But I had to share this priceless picture of dad before I wake him up and put him to bed. Goodnight.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T18:31:00.000-07:00

Halloweeeeeen!

I really don't like halloween. If my children have fond memories of Halloween, it is because of their father. Right now, as I write this blog, he is in the living room watching for more trick-or-treaters. I offered to clean the temple tonight, but dad isn't going because there might be more little goblins showing up after I need to be there. When the children were little, I made sure we had something to eat before the children started on there quest for candy. If you remember, it was dad that painted your face and got excited over costumes. It was dad who stayed to hand out candy while I took you 'treating'. It was dad who helped carve pumpkins. He loves halloween like his father and father-in-law before him. So, may you all appreciate your father for the memories he has given you.

As for me, with Halloween over it means I can start thinking about where my Christmas Village is going this year!!!

54486-338-859D93A685031D0F5F2F8E98746E85B9

Audrey and Gregory

2008-10-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Pictures of our grandchildren on the weekend of Marc and Ashlee's Open House. What a fun weekend, even if we had to share it with the snow.

Notice the toothpick. We have pictures of Justin with a toothpick in his mouth when he was younger. Pretty cute.

Lorenzo & Donna Mecham

2008-09-07T21:37:00.001-07:00

There was never a day in my life that I ever doubted that my father loved my mother. He was the same age as Aunt Marge and during his growing up years, only knew my mom as one of Marjorie Wilcox's little sisters. He met Donna at a dance. They loved to dance and Preston Idaho had a place that held dances every Wednesday and Saturday night. They had dance cards in which they would enter the dance, fill out the dance card with those people they were going to dance with and proceed to dance with those on the card. You usually danced with your date during the first song and the last song of the night and sometimes before and after intermission. It was just a great way to socialize. I don't know how long they dated, but one night after a dance, Lorenzo asked Donna if she would marry him. Mom told him she wouldn't answer that question unless he asked it in broad daylight. Well, he did.

Lorenzo's dad was worried because he wouldn't be able to help them much. It was at the beginning of the Great Depression and money was scarce. But Grandpa said that when a young man's heart was set on something it didn't matter. They were married in the Salt Lake City Temple on September 13, 1931. (Dad said he had to wait until after mom's birthday, August 31, so she was 18 when he married her.)

Great Grandma and Grandpa Mecham were not able to attend the temple. And Grandpa Wilcox had died when mom was a young girl, so Lorenzo, Donna, and her mother, Julia went together to the temple. Mom said it was rather funny, because after the wedding, her mother took her shopping for some clothes. Lorenzo had to follow them around while clothing and hats were bought. That was the beginning. Lorenzo and Donna spent the next 8 years in the mountains at a sheep camp.

Grandpa Mecham

2008-09-06T23:24:00.000-07:00

Well, we will try another blog. This coming week will be the anniversary of Grandpa Mecham's death. (September 9, 2003) So, I am thinking I will dedicate a few blogs to him. Memories of him. This picture was taken a few days before he died. Aunt Julie and Uncle Frank had taken him on a church history tour. He really loved it. He loved the gospel of Jesus Christ. He loved to serve everybody, from Pearl, who he did all kinds of errands, to his family. There were a lot of widows that were pretty sad when he left this earthly experience. I believe he is still serving. Here is my testimony of this truth.

A month or so before Lyric and Scott's wedding, Dad and I were in the Boise temple on a ward assignment. We were doing sealings and happen to be with a couple who had many family names. It was a small sealing room and it was even smaller when I shut my eyes and felt all the spirits in the room. Even the sealer mentioned that he had other records we could be doing, but felt there were many here for this work to be done, so he was going to continue with the family names.

As I enjoyed the feelings of the temple veil so thin, a 'door opened' and my dad's presence walked into the room. In my thoughts, I expressed my love for him and mentioned Lyric's approaching wedding in the temple. I also conveyed that I would not feel his presence as I knew I would be quite caught up in everything else. He conveyed to me that he would be there but that he had things to do now. His presence left the room.

He had worked in the temple for several years after his mission and before mom's death. He loved every minute of it I'm sure he was thrilled with the chance to continue the work on the other side.

My First Post

2008-07-21T23:16:00.000-07:00

Well, I have joined the ranks of bloggers. It's about time as I have been enjoying other blogs and I should probably have my own. I don't always feel I have something important to say. We will see how this goes. Today, Rick is at Scout camp. This gives me time to play on the computer and do absolutely nothing. After a phone call from my daughter Ari, I decided to take her advice and go to Target for something to do. I thought I should drive to the school and pick up a few things there, first, and then go to the Dollar Tree and Target. It would be a nice ride (so I thought). It has been cloudy here all day and had tried to sprinkle a little rain but nothing to get anything really wet. So I gathered up and headed out toward the school. The farther south I drove, the more water on the roads. As I got close to the Bickel school, I looked down. I was covered with brown and black polka dots from the waist up. I couldn't believe how bad my shirt looked. So, I decided to come home and get the mustang. When I walked into the door, I looked at my self and was shocked to see this:

I know i am not very pretty to look at, but if you look really close, you can see the spots all over my face and shirt. Pretty funny, huh. I was not undaunted. I cleaned up, brushed my hair, changed my shirt, and went to Target in the Mustang. Probably a good idea.