On the photo below, if you zoom into the middle section, you can see an entire line of train cars (tankers) that were blown over. Pretty surreal. I didn't know that's what I was taking a picture of at the time, or I would have gotten closer, but noticed it today.





Here are some more pictures.

This is the view from a friends house in Windsor, which got hit by the tornado. Our house is fine, thank goodness. It's a good long story about what we all went through, and I'll post the video of that when I get power back to my house.

We have water, cold and hot, and the kids are actually having a blast "camping" -- we even set up the tent in the back yard. Why not? We're cooking on a camp stove, and using camp lanterns for light, might as well go all the way. Of course I'm sleeping in my own bed. I had enough of camping last weekend.

I bought a 'tiny' camera for camping, cycling, hiking, etc., a Casio something -- funny, that was my first digital camera. It has better video than my (5 year old) $800 video camera -- and it's digital video, so there's no capture involved (which can only be done in real time -- a total pain). Pretty awesome. The depth of field for scenery and group shots is really good. Anyway, I took it on father and sons with the boys, took hundreds of photos and videos, and after downloading it to my computer, through a series of unfortunate events (pretty sure it was when I was downloading photos from someone's web site to put together a slide show for swim team), that the entire directory got purged. Sucked bad. I found some undelete software (called "undelete plus") which worked great, and recovered a few dozen pictures, but the rest, including all the movies, were gone forever. Oh well, at least it wasn't someone's wedding! The sad thing is I spent probably three hours sorting, cleaning up, etc. the pictures before I lost them.

Father and Son's camp-out was a riot. It's always fun -- all except the whole sleeping outside thing. I'll never get used to that. The daylight hours were really a good time, though. Ryan, Alan, and Jordan were all there. I took Friday off and went up early with the boys, we took our time getting there, and did a mountain bike ride when we got there.

Saturday was a lot of hiking. Ryan did great, outlasting us all. He's like a mountain goat. We hiked up hill from about 9am to 1pm. The kid's amazing. Jordan and Alan spent their time bouldering everything they could find. Mom was not happy with some of the pictures of the boys hanging off rock walls. Mom's will never understand that sort of thing. It would have been more fun had we remembered our rock climbing gear...so we tried to stay 20 feet or less off the ground....but that was a grey area.

I'll put some of the pictures up that I salvaged. My favorite one did survive, luckily enough, because I made it into my desktop image right off the bat.

Happy Mother's day!

Jordan finished his swim season with his best time in breast-stroke, beating his old time by almost two seconds. He was excited to do so well, and lettered as a freshman this year. We're looking forward to seeing him progress through High School. He's also excited to start up again in football this summer.

It's going to be a busy summer for all of us here. Too much to do, every day will be packed. We've got some fun family vacations planned already. Now, if I could just figure out how to play hookie at work for a few months. Think they'd miss me?

Lacey finished a play she was in, she had a good role as a tree -- a talking tree, and she did great.

I did a 125 mile bike race last weekend (still recovering from that ordeal), but I finished in the lead group, technically tied with two other riders (there's no sprint finish). It was pretty cool.

Dyllan is just insane lately, pretty sure he's figured out how to take over the house, and he's planning a coup. If he gets Cassidy and Lacey on his side, my only hope is that I can use Ryan as a spy, and Jordan as my muscle. Alan could go either way, but he's mostly pre-occupied with his own world domination plans, and probably considers a take-over of the house beneath him.

We're glad we all have our health, at least, and are stoked for the school year to end. Julie may be fearing having four extra kids home all day but she's always managed to plan awesome activities for them most days...especially days when I work from home and plead for her to have a field trip.

Dyllan can climb up on top of the bunkbed without a ladder now. We found how he did it by climbing on the window-sill. Pretty good for a 17 month old. He's a good climber. We took him out of the room and shut the door, and so he learned how to open a door.

Grandma Lula passed away 11/28/07. Most of us were able to attend the funeral (Juliette, Polly, and Andrew couldn't make it), and it was very nice to see everyone. Some of the anecdotes that were told:

Gigi told of staying with grandma and having lots of fun with her as a teenager. Grandma would stay up late with them and giggle like a 13 year old. Grandpa would call from the bedroom "Lula, quit acting like a teenager and come to bed!" She would continue to giggle as her false teeth would about fall out.

After Gigi snuck out of her window a few times, she tells how grandma never confronted her about it, she would just do an "end-around", and she nailed her window shut.

Gigi's and her friend kept sneaking out the front door to the freezer room to eat ice cream -- straight from the container. After a few times, one night they found two bowls and two spoons sitting on the freezer.

Everyone told of how hard she worked and saved. She was supremely frugal with money and learned to do without and to make something out of nothing. She was a good example to all of us how to live simply.

We drove 24 hours total to get there and back, but it was worth it. We had a good time together as a family on the way, and it really wasn't too bad. I'm sure it was a memorable experience for everyone.

There are some pictures of our trip here: http://www.meteorbike.com/2007_12_04

Thanksgiving cometh. Looking forward to some time off. In preparation for T-day, both the dishwasher, and the refrigerator decided to quit working. Long story short, I called the service people, who promptly came out and told me they hadn't a clue on the fridge. They fixed the dishwasher (a simple heating element) for $220. Seems steep. The fridge was not defrosting, but worked fine other than that, until the repair man came. After he left, it wouldn't even turn on. I figured his poking around the motherboard had loosened some wires.

I googled the problem and found numerous solutions posted. After the barely educated tool jockey put the fridge back together (the second visit) and left declaring no joy, I promptly went to work, pulled everything back apart, re-seating all the connectors that he loosened, and then fixed the original defrosting problem. The fridge is currently regulating and cooling like brand new.

Why we have "professional" technicians who don't seem to have the first clue when it comes to their own business, I have no idea. It would seem to me that if I went around repairing appliances and such, that I would want to know more about appliances than your average doofus. Apparently, this just isn't the case. If it isn't really obvious what's wrong (like it's not plugged in) they are clueless. My guess is they go around pressing the reset button on grandmotherly type's refrigerators and collect a pretty good living.

In all fairness I'm pretty much a jerk when it comes to technology.

So, looking forward to T-day. Julie's sister and husband are coming with their three kids. Should be a blast. Full house, for sure, but nothing I can't handle. The weather looks to be really bad, too, so getting out of the house might be more difficult than usual. I'll find a way, though, for sure. I don't know him very well, but he seems like a very pleasant chap. Julie's sister stayed with us several years back for something like a year. It was nice having her around, she's very helpful.

So, here's to long naps, sleeping in, and over-eating.

Juliette has kept an amazing blog of her family here: Julie's Blog

Check it out. I think this is the best way to keep a scrap book.

Wow, it's been a long time since this thing has been updated. Frankly I'm surprised it even still exists. If Andrew hadn't created a BLOG on blogger I wouldn't have remembered I had one here.

General Conference was awesome. Julie especially liked Sister Beck's talk because it basically validated her entire philosophy as a mother. Read it. Live it. You know it's true.

Life here is great. Teaching seminary is a riot. Tough to get up that early every day, but we're all managing.

Work is going great. Lots of cool new development going on right now. The coolest new thing are "hybrid" disk drives. You know what FLASH is, right? Like those memory sticks you put in your computer? Well, we're making hybrid disk drives that are half flash, half normal spinning disk. You can store your OS (like Windows) on the flash portion and everything else on the disk. That way Windows boots and runs like a ton faster. They are the future of computing, for sure. Lots of cool new projects going on at Seagate right now. It's pretty cool to be developing this stuff. When I first started here, three years ago, the stuff I worked on is just now beginning to go into real products.

Just posted some new pictures on my website. Enjoy. I've actually had a few people come to me asking for me to take their portraits. I think they turned out nice.

The interview went well but Andy probubly won't take the job. It is for a little tiny mine 2 1/2 hours south of here. But there is like an 1 1/2 commute both ways 4 days a week. He is just not so sure how much he would like the drive and how small it is there. We will just keep looking.
Other than that not much happening on the home front.
Thanks Polly

Whitehead Family Forum

How did the interview go Polly? When will you guys hear about a job? Hope all went well!

Hi Joe, I guess this is a very in-frequently visited place, but it's not totally dead yet! I would like some pictures if you want to send them. Do you need my address, or are you just e-mailing or what? How is the newly-wed life? I hope you are doing well.

I wish I could get some desire to actually do some studying tonight...but it is one of those cold, rainy lazy Sunday's and I would rather just veg out. We are doing well, just had a nice weekend with Lestie and Tim. We went to the pumpkin patch, and got gouged for kids rides etc, but they loved it. I am getting fatter daily, it is so fun to feel the little one squirming around in there though. I can't remember if I mentioned it, but it is a girl! I am so excited to finally be able to buy pink girly things! She will be well loved by her big brothers. Ok, that is about it...not much else new- school, church, blah blah all that jazz. :)
Love,
Juliette

Hey Joe I would like some family pictures. That sounds great . Hey I know, but e-mail works for almost anything. Everyone has e-mail. Well, We are doing well. We are currently looking for a new job. Andy has an interview on Fri. at a place about 2 hours away. We are just sick of promises and no action. Andy was promised a position in July and still has not seen any indication of that happening. So we look. Well not much else is up. We are doing well and hope you all are too!
Lots of Love Polly

this sucks my entire life i wanted to be on the in. now that i know about this blog thing nobody used it from what i hear. if anyone does and would like wedding photos of us that means you to, then just give me a hoot.

Dear Family-
Grandma Gwynne is having her 80th birthday and we have all been asked to write her a note addressed to Aunt Corrie. I don't know what you want to say but something nice would be good! I can now say I have contacted you all. Love you and hope everything is well with everyone.
Love, Lisa

We are still around, just having the kind of summer that doesn't feel like summer except it is too hot to be anything else.  I just finished my 6 credit CNA course this week, that ran for 7 weeks, 4 days a week.  It was hard to spend most of the day Sateurday and sunday at the hospital for clinicals instead of with my family doing fun summer stuff like swimming and camping!  Now that I am "free", I am not really free.  We are expecting a new little one in January, and the doctor has put me on bedrest.  I had an ultrasound and he found a chorion amniotic separation.  It is a pocket of fluid between the amniotic sac and the uterus, and I guess could rupture and cause a miscarriage.  So, until I see the specialist and hear otherwise, here I sit.  Hopefully he will give me good news so I can finally get up and clean my house, that is very rapidly deteriorating.  Other than that, we are doing well.  The boys also love swimming, although Jackson still likes to use a lifejacket most of the time.  Conner is getting braver and braver with his doggie paddling, and thinks he can swim in the deep end.  He also just taught himself how to ride his 2 wheeler, and in spite of a few minor contusions, loves it.  Jackson is a little socialite, and knows all the kids within a 2 mile radius.  He is getting very hard to keep track of lately.  Bryce, our "baby" is 20 months now, and has quite the attitude.  He is very cute with strangers though, and will turn up the sweetness for them.  He is fun to have around, especially since he still naps 2x a day.  When not watching the boys for me, Chris is busy with his projects at work.  He is going to Portland in August to present his research at an Ecological Society of America conference.  Then, hopefully we will see some of the family at Joe's wedding! 

Where is everyone?  I have been terrible at posting, but I will try to update this at least once a week.  Most of the plans for Joey's wedding seem to be solidifying.  We'll definitely be there (just Julie and myself).  Polly, why don't you have an answering machine?  Polly was supposed to take care of the Hotel reservations or something, but due to her car accident and now, from what I heard, Lisa having a mishap on her front porch, she may have forgotten to get back to us.  I assume we have a room somewhere.  Really looking forward with seeing everyone.  Actually, I'm just looking forward to eating out...I've been really strict about my diet this year and haven't eaten out hardly at all, so it's a real treat for me to get to go to a restaurant.  Saved a lot of money that way, too.

I am now the stake physical activities director guy.  So I get to run the sports seasons and the 5k run and such.  It should be fun.  I'm also a ward missionary, well I have been this whole time, I just didn't do anything because of my other callings.  Now that I have the time, the missionaries and I have been teaching the wife of an old missionary friend of mine.  She's not a member and he hasn't been back to church in 7 years.  Weird, huh?  Anyway, I'm his home teacher and thought we should try to meet with them, and it turns out she's totally golden.  She's getting baptized August 7th.  And, he's coming back to church, with her of course.  Great experience.

Jordan and Alan have been competing in the swimming thing.  Jordan won 1st place at his last meet in the breast stroke.  He's pretty fast and I'm very jealous of his great abs.  Both he and Alan are lean racing machines right now.  Alan did fine except for the individual medley, which normally you have to be older to compete in.  He was dead last, and by about a minute.  I was proud that he did it, though, it's not an easy event.  They secretly wish they could eat ho-ho's and twinkies like their friends do, but it's good for them that Julie keeps the house stocked with good food and has not allowed any junk for years.  When they get on their own, they're going to rebel and eat all the junk food they can.  The other three children, yes I have five, are doing marvelously.  Lacey is going into first grade, while Ryan is still not old enough for kindergarten.  He just missed the cutoff.  He's a tank, that one is.  His favorite cereal is oatmeal, and asks for it over just about anything else.  Cassidy is over one year now and at that very cute stage where she can't talk at all, but walks around communicating with mutant baby talk.  

See everyone in August.
  

 

Hey all, just checking in. Ben, you are so great to keep up with this! With all that you have on your plate, I am impressed. I forget about the blogger, until we get an e-mail about family stuff. Speaking of, we are looking forward to Joe's wedding, it should be lots of fun. It will be especially nice that we only have to drive about 3 hours. :) Not sure where we are staying yet, I am still thinking about leaving my kids with a friend overnight to make things a bit easier. If not, then we might stay a bit longer to check out the sights.

Things are great here, school let out last week and it sure feels great! Chris has to go to Vegas more often, but with no school we still feel like we see him a lot. I am starting summer school in June, a CNA class to get me more points for the RN application. Chris is still the financial clerk at church, and I am the activity days leader. I teach the 8-11 year old girls every other week, we work on completing their awards. The boys are boys! They are excited for the pool to open this weekend, and to go up to Lake Tahoe soon. Conner starts year around school in July, and Jackson starts preschool in August. It will be nice to have a couple of hours in the morning with just one kid! Bryce is growing fast, and hitting the terrible twos quickly. He has a great mad face, and throws tantrums daily. He is terribly cute too, which explains why we haven't given him away yet. We are all healthy and happy!

How is everyone? With all that's going on, I'm sure no one has cared to blog much, but I'd like to hear from you all. So, what's new with us? Not much. Still riding a lot. Jordan's school scored the highest in the state on the standardized tests, 95%. Pretty cool, they're actually learning there. I'm still in young men's trying to do what I can for these guys. I'm the teacher's advisor and I'm reminded what a tough age 14-15 is for boys. It seems that if a boy is going to be a rebel they start making those moves in the teacher's quorum. It's just a really troubling world out there, and I try my best to give good lessons and have good activities. Father and son's outing is this Friday, should be really fun. For the fireside, I asked a Iraq war vet from our ward, who just got back, to talk about his experiences and his priesthood, etc. Should be good, he's a really cool guy. Father and sons has become a real tradition for my boys and me, they love it and look forward to it all year.

We get this newsletter from my sister-in-law every couple months. It's just about hillarious. She sends it out to over 100 people (no kidding), and it reads like the Corrie newsletters of past. It starts out, "sorry we didn't get this out on time, and we know how much each of you enjoys hearing about our family..." I thought that it was an attempt at self-depricating humor, but after reading on (3 full sheets of paper, front and back, single spaced -- I only got through 1 1/2). The thing that strikes me is, she got married like last year, she just barely had her first child, and she's convinced that everyone is dying to sit at her feet and take part in her vast wisdom of parenting and motherhood. It's comical. Not that I'm all experienced, I honestly haven't the first clue how to be a parent, but I've been around long enough to know most people don't either. Plus, all throughout the thing she's taking mild digs at her husband, 'cause you know, men just is stupid and can't figure out things like child-birth and such. Anyway, just so you know -- there's one in every family.

Nothing else new here. Hope you all are keeping your testimonies intact. Half of the questions I ask my teachers during lessons, one kid always responds with his canned answer "go to church, read the scriptures, pray, and yes." He's usually right. Not much to add to that if you think about it. With all we've been through lately, we need it now more than ever. On a side note, I'm just waiting for someone to come up with an all-encompassing newsletter covering the last few months in our family. Yeah, hold your breath for that one.

Gosh, Lisa that is terrible!!! I am glad you got your money back, but it is so sad that the kid will learn the hard way.

It was great to see everyone at the family gathering. I am sorry I had to duck out Friday and missed all the fun on Saturday but sometimes I guess you do what you have to. At least I was able to retrieve some sanity on Saturday just in time to find out that we were robbed on Friday while we were in Salt Lake at the wedding. Our neighbor is a policeman and caught a young man in our ward staking out houses and searched his car. They found our savings bonds on him ($4000)! Thants how we found out. He then confessed to breaking in to our house and stealing our strong box from our file cabinet...anyway, all is recovered and the kid is in prison with two other local teenagers. The heart breaking thing is that it is the son of a Bishoprich member and he and his wife are good friends. Also, nothing else was stolen...wierd. We will have fun in September and in August as we gather again. Love you all!

Jacob's wedding in T minus 7 days. For those of you who haven't heard, we're staying in the courtyard marriot off 106th south. Call Jake for info. Word is Joey has a prospect of his own he's working on. I for one am not going back to Utah for another wedding in a month. Between Julie's and my family, this is out of hand.

We just finished our pinewood derby here at work. It was fun, there were some cars that were flat out unbelievable. The car I made last night, just so I could enter something, won fifth place. I missed 4th by 0.0012 seconds, but I'm glad I did, because I figured it wasn't a good career move to beat the VP. My boss bought a very cool electronic track that times everything. There were 33 cars total, and I got a $15 Best Buy gift certificate.

I'm taking Jordan and Alan to a hockey game tonight, the Windsor Eagles vs. Oklahoma City. I've heard the games are a total riot.

Ben, you telling Jordan to beat everyone up and down the court made me think of Dad, he always told me that too. Sounds like your family is doing great, and your kids are all growing in the things they enjoy most. I remember being in the spelling bee and loving it-I was such a nerd. :)

We are doing well too, school is back in full swing again. Chris is really busy trying to submit a presentation for ESA(Ecological Society of America), as well as finish a progress report for the Department of Energy so that their grant is continued another year. I am plugging away as well, taking 6 credits again. Conner is loving preschool, and the other day when I picked him up his teacher told me that he was the most well behaved, well mannered kid she had! I was a proud momma. Jackson is still Jackson, a little odd but one of a kind! Bryce is learning to walk (finally! He is 15 months old) but gets so giddy he falls down laughing most of the time. He is starting to show his true colors that include a bit of a temper, but is still very sweet. It is fun having Lestie and Tim closer, the boys love playing with their cousins. Gabby and Conner get along like nobody else! They are cute together. Anyway, that is about it for now- looking forward to seeing everyone in about 3 weeks!
Love, Juliette

Hello all, and yes, Happy New year (as it's almost February). We had fun in Utah for New Years in the massive snowstorm of the century.

We will be at Jake's wedding. Can't wait to travel to Utah again...ahem. We'll see you all there!

And in other news. Not having anywhere else to write this, I will now brag about my kids. They all tried out for the Missoula Children's Theater again this year. Only Lacey made the cut. She worked hard all week learning her part, which consisted of jumping up and down and yelling "baaaaaa", (she was a lamb). Come performance time, she nailed her part. So, she was a star for a day. Alan got straight A's, which was almost more than Jordan could stand. Alan's report card was like something out of the twilight zone for someone like myself who always looked for ways to change the F's into B's. My teachers always wondered why I wasn't a good student, "like Tyler". Alan got that similar rare genetic defect where he actually cares what his teacher thinks and tries to please them. They have spelling tests and, trying to challenge Alan, the teacher had to add bonus words. The spelling lists look like this: call, ball, wall, mall, hall, and bonus words, philanthropist, cellular, circuit, and dodecahedron. True. Alan has yet to miss any of the bonus words to date. I guess it's okay for now, but it is kind of eerie. Jordan, is not stupid either. He got second place in his school (which goes to 8th grade) in the Geography Bee. He was in the paper for that one. Actually, I sit back in amazement as Julie does so much work helping these kids reach their potential. It's exhausting just to watch. Jordan is getting better at basketball, too. His team came back to win a game where they were down 11 points at the half. He is no real offensive threat, but he's a great leader and rallied the troops on defense and hustled up and down the court. I told him I wanted to see him beat everyone up and down all day long, and he darn near succeeded. That was one of the few times I saw his face go flush because he was actually working hard. They are now 2-0.

So, that's the news.

I have a new email address. It is valisa@frontiernet.com. I haven't thought as far ahead as Jakes wedding but I guess it is coming up isn't it. I am enjoying my job but it does make my time a bit scarce, so I apologize if I haven't been very good about keeping in touch with anyone. I know I have a babysitter or two available if anyone needs them but please ask them so they won't think they are being picked on. Shari also has several friends who could help out and that have experience in the babysitting profession. Analise is also excellent for someone who has just a few kids. She is really growing up. Ben we sure enjoyed seeing you at Christmas/New Years. You and Julie have a great family. I hope you know that you are always welcome at our house. Well, I had better get going. Love, Lisa

Looking forward to Jake's wedding. Anyone have babysitters in mind or lined up? What about hotels?? Let us know, we are planning to go but would like to know what you all are planning as well.
Love, Juliette

Just stoped in to say,

Happy New Year!!!

Hey Ben,
You never call me :) ! I really have a little bit of time for sleeping but that is about it right now. I was stupid and took on remodeling...and anyway I am sure at least some of you know the story. Working keeps me busy all day and my kids keep me busy all night. Other than that I have not been doing much except help mom move and keep Dan's suitcase packed with clean stuff. I have gone out of my way to not make anything this year. I will get my Christmas cards out if it's the last thing I do. By the way I am still waiting for life to slow down. I would love to see you Ben. We will most likely be here through the holidays working on this house and getting caught up. Let me know if you want a place to stay. I know Tlers house is empty right now as well. Anyway, I love you all and think about you a lot more often than I write or call.
Love, Lisa

Christmas is almost here, so who is doing what? Julie and I will be in Utah for Raelynne's wedding to a nice guy there. Not for Christmas, but after, for about a week. I am not suggesting any sort of gathering, but I would like to stop in and spend a few hours chatting, or perhaps dining with, any family in the area. We will likely make a trip up to Idaho as well to see Angela and Jarom while we're at it. Oh the joy of traveling with five children. Anyway, drop me a line if you'll be around.

did you hear about Granma Lula's heart attack? I guess that she is doing OK and will get through it. But you know we should post things like that on here so people are informed. I heard this from Angela. She went and saw her last weekend.
I heard that she (Angela) is going to mom's for Thanksgiving and so is Lisa. So it should be fun. Tyler is going to Ruth's family though so he won't be around.
I wish we could be there. We are hosting Andy's family though. His mom and dad and a brother and sister are all comming so we will have a full house.
We are doing pretty well. I am just counting down the weeks until I can have this baby. something like twelve I think.
Well I hope you all have a happy holiday and remember we are all thinking of you even if we can't be there.
Polly and Andy and Family!

Our trip to Sanfransisco is cancelled, and we are using our free tickets to fly to Salt lake for thanksgiving. We are going to spend a couple of days with mom, then a Thanksgiving with Chris' family. Maybe we will get to see some of you.
Juliette

Hi everyone, I can't believe it is almost Thanksgiving time! I wish we had the dough to go somewhere, but we are trying to save to go to Idaho for Christmas. I guess we will be hanging out here by ourselves, but since I never see my husband anymore, any kind of time with him is great! We are all well, Conner had croup a couple of weeks ago and ended up in the ER, but he is fine now. He is attending a 4 day a week preschool, and thoroughly enjoys it. Jackson is my little pretender, he has quite the imagination! He was diagnosed with a moderate hearing loss in one ear, but we have yet to be referred to a speech pathologist to see what we can do to help him. He is doing well with language, but I worry that he misses so much. Bryce is finally pulling himself up on things, but still does the army crawl at 11 1/2 months! He is a great baby though, and I much prefer that to one that is running by now. Chris is doing great in school, and is steadily racking up the free airline tickets from going to Vegas every weekend. I am doing well in my classes, and actually like the time away for a few hours a week. We hope to go to San Fransisco in December, but our plans may be on hold because we just found out Chris' mom has breast cancer. We are praying that she will get through this, but don't know much yet. If you think about it, a few extra prayers from my family sure wouldn't hurt. I guess that is it, we love you and think of you often!
Love, Juliette

Dan headed off for Switzerland yesterday. He will be there a week. We had a great time in Breckenridge. The place we were at was really beautiful. There was just a skiff of snow on the mountains and the weather was definitely cooler but beutiful for hiking and biking. We went to a gold mine and hiked to a lake, went four wheeling over a mountain and spent a day cruizing the outlet mall in Silverthorn. The scenery was gorgeous. I thought of you Ben but remembered you had said your kids were not out of school and we were about 2 hours south and west of where you live. Tyler and Ruth were wanting to come but they had things come up as well. I should have called but I was positively running to get "on vacation" and by the time we had mellowed out enough to call, the trip was almost over. I was just thinking how sad it is that we are all so busy running around that we don't take time to stop and smell the roses as it were...or to remeber our neighbors, let alone our families. It's that trouble of having to prioritize everything until you have prioritized your life right out of control. I must be doing something wrong...Anyway, I do love you all and think of how you are doing. I hope it is well.
Love, Lisa

Well Ben I admire you and Julie. I wish I ran more. I guess I need one of those jogging stroller things I always think I will just wait until I can leave them with Drew (I walk in the AM with friends) this year has been so pleasant for so long that we have not had to quit yet. But I don't think I will be running walking is enough. Although there is a lady in my ward who can walk the 10K in 12 minutes but maybe it is the 5K I can't remember but a bunch of ladies in my ward who walk each morning were very impressed. Anyway I beleive in taking care of yourself. If I have to get old I better look good doing it.

All is well in Idaho. The weather is beautiful and the kids are fine. We have had the usuall colds and stuff but nother major yet. Max is growing fast and loves to smile and laugh. He has more of the personality of his sister than Sam which is good and bad. He got his shots today and was very offended by them. Every time he wakes up he just cries really sad like. Sam has always been one who was very tough and he never cried when he got his shots or when he falls down. In fact now he runs staight to the mirror so he can see the blood, he wont even let me put a bandaid on it till he had stared in the mirror for a while.
Marissa made it into the nutcraker again this year. But that means not going to far for Thanksgiving because of practises. We have tickets to the Utah game the weekend before so we will be at moms then and Drew has the whole week off. We thought we might head over to Denver to visit Drew's aunt and uncle and stop by Ben and Julie's but if you are not going to be there let us know. Take care.

Love,
Angela

I can't believe I forgot Dan and Lisa were going to be in Colorado. You should have called as I only read this thing once a month or so. It will make a nice family history someday.

Julie and I took the kids and did our stake sponsored 5k/10k run on Saturday. We had a pretty good turnout, around 80 people ran. It was fun, and I'm getting to be a better runner, usually I'm sore for a week afterwards, this time it was only a day. There were missionaries at every aid station, and it was well organized. Julie got 4th overall (men included) which rocked. I was, ahem, somwhere in there, too. I pushed the runner and herded Ryan, Lacey and Alan on their bikes. Ryan made it the whole way, and many people were pretty surprised to see a three year old riding a bike like that. The church is sponsoring things like this now, and I think it's great. It's going to be an annual event because one of the new requirements to get the Duty to God award is that the 14-15 year old boys run a 5k in 30 minutes, and the 16-18 year olds have to run a 10k in 60 minutes. I think that's great, and reflects well the fact that as a church, and as a society in general, we need to pay more attention to our health. I think many of us take our health for granted, and assume that if we don't drink coffee or beer, we'll always be healthy. To "run and not be weary" implies to me that you should be running sometimes. The promise is not to "surf the channels and not get a finger cramp". I was especially glad to see a few of our larger members out there huffing and puffing away at it. Good for them, I hope they keep at it. We heard more than once that "of course the Whitehead's are here," which tells me we're setting a good example, I guess. Either that or they think we're whacked.

I am currently the first counselor in the young men's, which means I teach the teachers. There are a few of them that are on the verge of turning their life into a tragedy, but most of the others are good kids. Julie is the primary president. We just got a copy of a picture the ward took of all the mothers with new to ~6 month old babies. It's unbelievable, there are about 20 mothers, including Julie, holding their babies, one lady with twins. It's unreal. When I peaked into the Relief Society room to see them taking the picture, I saw all of these beautiful women lined up, smiling for the camera with their children. It brought tears to my eyes, it was overwhelming. I had to duck out, lest someone see my less than manly demeanor.

Sorry such a long diatribe, hope all is well with each of you. We currently have no Thanksgiving plans, so feel free to start the invites now (hee hee). We're spending Christmas at home. Anyone is welcome to come, and we'd love to help with any travel expenses you might have getting here. Take care.

Lisa, I hope you feel better soon! I am sick too, going on a week and a half wondering if I have allergies or a really long lasting cold. Glad to hear you are all doing well anyway.

We had a fun weekend, we went to a wedding near Calaveras Big trees national park. The wedding was ok, the groom was plastered and could hardly cut the cake. But the camping was the best part, it was really beautiful there. I need to figure out how to post some pictures so everyone can see...anyone willing to help?

Polly is coming to see me today! She has an ob visit, and I get to babysit her kids. Guess I'd better get cleaning!
Juliette

Hi everyone,
I was really bummed Friday. I sat down and wrote this nice long message for everyone and updated you on the latest and then I am not sure what I did but it erased it and I didn't have the energy or heart to write it again. I have been really sick with Brochitis and I am home sick today from work. I wish I felt better I could get something done! Oh well...Julie, I was inspired by your note about your family. It was really nice to hear whats up at your house. Everyones doing well here except me and I guess it's that new teacher thing. They say they all get really sick their first year. Great! We are remodeling our back room into an office and dining area, so my house is a mess and things are crazy with kids in four different schools, work and Dan is traveling again. Ben we are headed to Brekenridge Colorado on the 11th of October. You are still welcome to come up and stay a night or two if you feel like it and your kids are out of school. We will be staying until the 18th. It will be nice to get away for a minute even if it is cold. I hope everyone is doing OK. I love you all. Love, Lisa

It's been a while since anyone posted...must be busy with school starting and everything. We are doing well, time is flying by and soon it will be summer again. Conner was bummed when they finally drained the pool and covered it, I was a little too. It was nice to lay in the sun and get those endorphins or whatever you get from it- felt great anyway! It is starting to cool off here, I love the fall weather- Even if it means that it takes 20 minutes to finally get out the door going anywhere, trying to gather socks, shoes, jackets and other various items. Conner will turn 5 next month- I can hardly believe I am a mom of a 5 year old! Jackson is 3 1/2 and will be attending a 9 week high school run preschool. It is supposed to be really good, I met the head teacher and she is so warm and friendly. They get to play, and learn at various stations and they even feed them lunch. It is 3 days a week, and 3 hours a day for only 8$ a day. He will love it, he has carried his lunch box full of various treasures around for a week asking when he gets to go. Bryce is getting so big, he is now 10 months and weighs nearly 25 lbs. and 30 inches long. He only does the army crawl, but is getting pretty quick at it. He is still very laid back, and will go to anyone who wants to hold him. He gives cheezy grins to those he loves, showing off his 6 teeth- which he will also bite you with if you get close enough. Chris is doing well, and loving what he does. He is the ward finance clerk, and enjoys that because it isn't too time consuming. I am a primary teacher to the 6 year olds, which is fun. I guess it gives me a glimpse of what is to come. I am also taking 6 credits at the community college, and that is really fun. I am taking classes that are in the nursing program, and I love them. I guess that is about it, we are all happy and well (besides a bout with pinkeye this week- yuck). We have an extra bed if anyone decides to make a trip to lovely Reno! I hope everyone else takes a minute to catch up, I'd love to read all about it!
Love, Juliette

Well I sent a regular e-mail, but just so everyone knows we did have a boy on August 14 he is quite cute and eats all the time. I would have e-mailed sooner but I did not come back to work for a few weeks. I am back now with Max in tow and I just hope he sleeps long enought for me to get something done. I will finish the birth anouncements at some point and get them out to you all. I tried to convince Drew that after 3 you no longer had to send one but he thought that was just mean. He also got mad when I told Missy she no longer got a birthday party every year or new clothes for school. He keeps saying that three is just not that many but I still feel that we are now in over our heads and outnumbered.
We are blessing our baby September 28 and all is welcome but we will be going to Jaroms so maybe we can just see you there.

Love,
Angela

Hmmm, that might be fun! I guess if you are willing to brave the drive all the way from Colorado, with 5 kids, we could go 6. We saw Jarom's baby on our way home last week. She is a cutie! Angie's little Max is cute too- we just have good genes in this family! :)
Juliette

Yes, congratulations, Jarom. I'm sure everyone is aware that Joey is home now. Jarom is having his baby blessed on September 7th, and if we can make it, we will. We just may. Haven't been to Twin Falls for awhile, it might be nice.

OOPS...

She was 19.5 inches, not 195 inches! (That would look scary!)

Hey all -

Yes its true... we had a baby girl on August 5th. She was 7 lbs 13 oz and 195 inches long. She has a mas of chestnut hair (like her mother's) and a cleft Whitehead chin. We named her Emma Celeste and she is the most beautiful baby girl I have ever seen. Pictures will be forthcoming as soon as I get around to it. Love and miss you all. - Jarom

Dear kids, this is Mom. Congratualations to Jarom and Jen. I'm so glad their baby is doing well. I hope to hear from Angela one of these days soon. I've been talking to people involved with Joey in France. He's still depressed and he has a month to feel better or they are sending him home. Pray for him. this doctor who's a member of the church is treating him with flax seed oil. I had arranged to send him medicine, but they won't let him be treated with medicine over there, so pray the flax seed oil works. Other than that, Andrew and Jacob seem to be doing fine. I have realized lately than I haven't quite got the boys raised yet, and I don't think I'll ever get beyond worrying about all you kids. All I can do is worry and pray, as far as Joe is concerned, anyway. His mission pres went to bat for him and got him another month. Church policy is to send them home. He likes the kid, anyway. I feel just awful, but I love him and hope he gets better. We've lived through worse things, though. I love you all. Love, Mom

Congrats on the girl Jarom and Jenn!!!

The reunion (according to Ben) sounded fun and well fun. I am sorry I missed it, but I hada mini reunion of my own with Lesti and her family here. She is always fun to be around. They camped at Jane's at night and that helped out a lot. We hope to get our addition going soon and then I can host even Lesti's brood. With Andrew here I have 4 boys in one room. He doesn't complain much. Keitra's privileged life is unaltered and she continues to have her own Queen bed and post signs declaring her 15x15 territory. The luck of being the only girl. Lesti's kids are really adorable, it was fun to watch them interact with my boys. I loved leaving them all behind to go shopping with Lesti, too. She was really hilarious....I laughed my self sick through "Ross." I forgot how funny she was. we had fun in town while Kip and Tim played on the river. We'll see if things work out so that they can be closer. Andrew is doing fine, even under our Nazi regime. He may or may not stay for Fall, he can decide if he can stand us that long.

Well that's it...congrats to Jarom and Jenifer on their little girl Emma. How exciting to have a little girl....I don't think they realize that girls are more emotional, sensitive and require double the wardrobe, shoes and attention that little boys demand! But they are very fun and oh so sweet. I hear she has dark hair like Mommy--So Jarom has a mini me and so does Jen! Later.

Ben, how do you post pics on the Blogger?

I want to put together a package to Joe this week, any ideas on what he might like or need? Also, if anyone has already done one, anything I need to know about what NOT to put in it or anything?

Things are good here, We had our second rainfall all summer friday and saturday. It was really nice to finally cool off for a day or two. Chris is leaving for Vegas tomorrow, and will be gone all week. The kids and I have made lots of friends though, so we keep busy with playgroups and lunches etc. School starts in three weeks, so we are planning the week before it starts to go to Utah and Idaho for a visit. If anyone wants to get together, let us know!

Angie and Jennifer, hope you are doing well and those babies are growing big! Don't foget to let us know when they make their grand appearance, we are praying for you and hope it all goes well.
Juliette

Hello everyone,
I just got back from taking Polly home to Round Mountain...Andy got us a tour of the Gold mine. It was really cool! They are doing really well. Polly seems to be feeling OK and her kids were really cute. It was fun to see everyone Saturday for the reunion. Time together is getting harder and harder to come by. I appreciate the willingness of all to be there and support each other. Our prayers are with all and we are mindful of each other in our personal struggles. Shari is spending time at Angela's helping her with Sam and Dan is at Scout Camp this week. I hope Lestie and Tim made it home safely as well as everyone else. Ben I love your rendition of the reunion!

Thanks for the message mom. It was a good reunion, and we won the beautiful, hand-made quilt. I never win anything, so I was really surprized. The quilt is worth far more than we all ended up paying for it, and we will treasure it greatly. Thanks to all those who made it. Mom, send me Joey's account number via e-mail, or call me with it. I wrote Joey a very lengthy e-mail empathizing with him on his current struggles. I hope he receives it well, I also printed it out to send him a hard copy. We had fun at Lagoon and had a great spot for just hanging out and talking. Jarom, with his imposing stature, chased the Indians away from camp; Alan and Corbin on scout duties from the tree house. In-your-face smoking was kept to a tolerable minimum, and our own public nudity was tasteful and integral to the plot. We had more than enough food on hand, and plenty of drinks. Thanks again to Valisa for the food, and Tyler for the drinks. Tyler, Jarom, and I got away for a nice bike ride up the canyon later in the day from his house. Tyler let me use his full-suspension mountain bike half-way down the hill, where I realized I need my own full-suspension mountain bike as soon as possible, and Tyler suddenly appreciated his fine ride after having to try to control mine over the many rocks and bumps. I will now auction the quilt I won to the highest bidder in order to purchase such a bike. The starting bid will be $2000, do I hear two? We made it home to find everything in the disorder we left it in (unfortunately no one broke in to clean the mess we left when packing for such an outing).

All in all, it was wonderful to see everyone. The kids had a total blast playing together and I hope they grow up continuing to be as close as they seem to be now. Any or all of them are welcome at my house any time you want to put them on the plane and send them here. We're planning on sending Jordan and Alan to grandma's house next Spring (or sooner) when she hosts the cousin's camp for 5 and older at her house (no this is not a sick joke, she really offered--just tell us when, mom).

Chris, I managed to finish all my work by Tuesday at 8 pm by working many more hours than I'm used to, and getting some very lucky breaks in the process, thus hastening the need for a vacation.

That is all.

Hey Jake! So what is the scoop then, why did mom think that? When are you coming back?

Just for the record, i haven't been mugged. I am having fun here in Chicago though. I have visited three diferent temples here the Chicago, Navou, and Saint Louis. I love Chicago it truly is a pretty city. The members are wonderful. well gotta run.

You could add us in there too- winning the lotto or something would help! Just kidding. I will try to be better in e-mailing Joe. I didn't know Jake got mugged! I am out of the loop I guess. Thanks for the reminder mom, we love you too!

Dear Kids, I just wrote to Joey. He sure could use a weekly letter from any or all of you. Also, if you have a spare nickle, it seems his food allotment, 150 per month just isn't adequate, and I really believe if he had a little more money he would not be so depressed. Hunger can do that for a person like Joe. If you want to help him, go to any us bank and put some in his account. They'll give you a deposit slip. Or send it to me. He sounds cheerful in his general email, but you should read the ones I get. He has even called me twice. I am so glad to be part of this family. You have all been so good and so willing to help each other. It's kind of likd the saying, "Christ has only our hands to help others." I love every one of you, but I am only one person. It makes me so happy to see how you help each other. I appreciate Gigi and Kip for their interest and help with Andrew. They will surely get stars in heaven for helping Whitehead teenagers. And I hope you all appreciate your oldest sister, Valisa, for the quiet way she has helped so many. My prayer for her right now is that she won't get carpel tunner syndrome from making baby quilts and blessing outfits. Just kidding. But there is a list of things I am praying for that I would seriously appreciate you adding your faith and prayers to. With so many of you, and your strong faith, Heaven will surely hear us. Pray for Joey every day that he'll feel joyful an stong in missionary service, have success and get beyond depression. Pray Jacob stays safe in Chicago and doesn't get mugged again. Pray Tim gets the job in Mattawa. Pray Polly gets over her terrible morning sickness and that all three girls, Jen, Angie and Polly have healthy babies. I love you all. You are the bomb, as Andrew would say. I miss that kid. Love, Mom

What happened to your work obligations Ben??

Gigi, don't worry about it, I am sure we all understand.

We are planning a trip to Utah around the 15th of August to see family and do a little family vacation.

We will be traveling this week to Utah and will be going to Lagoon. Those of you who can be there will be great to see you. It should be fun.

I am sorry. I have Lesti and Tim coming to my house (They couldn't make it to the reunion) and it seems silly to drive across country to see all of you whom I saw in February and miss her when I haven't seen her for over a year. They need my support right now and I had three trips back to back that were causing me way too much stress. Again I am sorry if I have undone something, but I get the idea that it was a financial hardship for many and it just seems silly to go forward with something that just wasn't working out! I would really like to get to gether and hope we can plan for another reunion.-gg

Hello all. Gigi is the latest family to cancel going to the family reunion. This comes after Juliette and Lestie cancelling. I hope this doesn't come as news to many of you, but the only people left were like those in Utah, and me. Yesterday a work issue came up that will require my undivided attention for the next two weeks, and so Gigi's call was actually a welcome one.

A reunion will happen, but more than likely it will be a marriage, funeral, or some other family get together. Gigi suggested a Blogger reunion, where everyone sits down and composes a family newsletter and posts it to Blogger for everyone to read. I'll post mine later.

hello

Well, we tried but it doesn't look like we are going to make it. I am really bummed, and Conner cried for a long time when I told him we weren't going to Lagoon like we planned. Our car just isn't up to the long trip, and since I would have to drive by myself with 3 kids there, I am not going to risk it. We hope to make a trip in August, with a newer car- but that remains to be seen! Hope everyone has a great time! Love Juliette

Hey Ben,
There is a guy (Carlos) that works in my lab that is heavily involved in cycling. He is a CAT4 rider and is working to become a CAT3 before the pro race that is here in Reno next year. Anyway, I was telling him about you and he was curious as to wat CAT you are. I told him that I did not know, but that you were just as consumed with cycling as he was. So, what CAT are you? Also, Carlos said to invite you out to visit and you could go for a few rides up to Lake Tahoe. The invitation is always open. Take care, hope to see you next week in Utah.
Chris

That's really funny to read after the fact. I didn't even know all this was going on until yesterday. I am trying to make my arrangements for this reunion so that they include a stop by Grandma's house, possibly meeting Lesti there if she can't come to Utah and then going through to Angie's house. I am nuts to do this, but I'll leave the 19th and get back home the 3rd. So who will be at the reunion? It will be nice to see you who ever you are. It's fun to be with everyone at once. Ben thanks for putting all this together and I'll see you in Utah!!

Thank Goodness! It was fun seeing Jarom, Lisa and their families for the Fourth. There weren't many fireworks very close, but we enjoyed sitting outside and looking at the beautiful view and sunset, the evening darkening around us, the lights coming on, with bursts of color lighting up places down in the valley. On the 24th of July, though, they go whole hog around here and shoot off fireworks on the nearby rodeo grounds. There's also a rodeo and parades if some of you come then to Salt Lake. Pioneer Day is big in Utah.

Just a note about the quilt raffle. I already have Lisa (four tickets), Grandma Lula (4), and my friend, Joanne, (five tickets). I hope the rest of you will do it, and even the older kids might buy a ticket, if they understand only one person gets the quilt, but they are all helping Joey's mission fund. I told Joey about it. He is a little lonesome, but I think is doing well.

I look forward to seeing you all who can come to the reunion. As I think about it, we should have prizes for every kid, I think. Polly said today she'd try to come. I love you guys. Mom

Okay, it's settled (again). Jarom and I will go to the airshow and everyone else can go to Lagoon! Just kidding, of course. Well, that's what I wanted, some feedback, and it sounds like everyone has thought it over and Lagoon is the best place to go. That's fine with me. Shade and water really do sound like the ticket in the late July. I love airshows, but my kids would rather go to Lagoon.

So, any other issues? Should be fun, looking forward to the trip.

Hi Ben and all,
After a gathering of family members at Tylers for the fourth, the decision that Arco is not the best place to hold a reunion seems to be the general consensus. I have rethought my own opinion and agree that although fun an airshow in Arco is less than optimal place to gather. It sounds like Polly will not make it, or Angela and there is always the chance that that others will not be able to come as well. Lets go on as planned, come to Lagoon on Saturday, if Ben is in agreement, and those that can't will be forgiven. Anyone can show up when they can and want to. A whitehead gathering is a monumental task. I have heard many opinions (there are so many in our family) about reunions for this family. We have to take what we can get, where we get it. I so appreciate what Ben is trying to accomplish, under the circumstances I think we should stick to plan A. There just isn't much in Arco...

Hi guys, this is Mom, because Jarom is here and I don't know how to get on Blogger, but he has a password. We sat around and talked about this last night, but everyone is wishy washy about saying anything negative about Ben's latest plans, so I will risk it. Anyway, I don''t understand this whole airshow thing. I don't want to travel to Arco and sit around in the hot sun with things booming overhead. I would like to visit with my kids and grandkids. Arco sounds too far away from everything. I can't imagine hanging around Arco or even Idaho Falls as a group, even though Angie is there and for her sake we could hang around in a hotel there, I guess. Still, I think Ben's original plan seemed to be working for most of us and it has worked out fine before to have this house serve as home base and have you guys in nearby hotels. Lagoon was a good place to have our main event. Lots of families and big companies have meetings there and there is endless entertainment if you get tired of just sitting around visiting. It works for both seeing each other and fun because it it has a place to sit in the shade, tables to eat on, and rides for the kids, etc. You don't have to pay to ride rides if you can't or don't want to and yet you can see all the shops and free shows. It would also be possible to see everyone without even going to Lagoon. I hope to see all who can come. I guess I just can't imagine the logistics of holding a reunion at a field in the middle of nowhere, unless we are all planning to camp in the desert or something. I haven't seen any info on this. Ben, what is the deal? Can you explain this at all except that you love airplanes? I appreciate your efforts to organize something, and will back you no matter what just because I love you. Can you please send details of this new plan? Love, Mom

That reunion would be a ton of fun. But it does not look like Andy is going to get toleave town this month at all. He has a project at work that he needs to be here for. But we wish we could be there. We will probubly come to Utah sometime this fall when we get the chance.

Mom that was very inspirational. I love talking to people about our family. It is really quite amazing what you and dad have accomplished as parents. I hope that somehow I manage to instill some of what you taught into my children.

Angie, I sent you a present it shipped today so I hope you get it before your shower. I appreciate your invite. One car makes it pretty impossible to leave town with out my husband though! We are working on that and maybe by next year we will have a second vehicle and I can visit who I please. Plus being pregnant I have to drive 4 hours to my OB so any other trips are going to be tough to swing.

Well I whish we could go but I hope you all have fun! We will try and see some of you this year!
Love Polly

Oh thanks guys, we leave Idaho and you decide to all come visit!!! That sounds like alot of fun, we heard about it before we left. It is going to be pretty huge I guess.

Angie, how are you feeling? I got the invite to your shower, wish I could come!!!

Mom, that was a beautiful e-mail! I have to laugh when you say you can't talk about us or you would feel like you were bragging. :D I feel sad that grandma is not doing so well, I wish we could go see her.

We are doing well, we are going up to Lake tahoe to see fireworks tonight, and then just stay in town for the ones tomorrow. Happy 4th everyone!!!

Airshow! Need I say more?
Love.

From MOM, since many of you probably didn't get it:

Hi everyone! I just got back from visiting grandma Lula in Salmon. She is pretty chipper for a very old lady, but is weaker than I've seen her and she cannot walk very well. Valisa came with me, and Quinn and Analyse, and we made a lovely quilt to raffle off at the reunion. I have told some of you about this, but decided to send an all points bulletin! You can buy a ticket to win the quilt and take it home from the reunion for $5. You can buy as many tickets as you want to. The money will go to Joey's mission fund.If you cannot come to Salt Lake for the Reunion this month, you can still buy a ticket for the quilt, just let me know. I will reserve your tickets if you send the money. You need not be present to win, but it would be fun to see you! I look forward to seeing all the little grand kids. I hope they have a lot of fun together, too. I sit here in my very quiet apartment and think about how many years I wished for this kind of quiet and time to meditate. I feel so grateful for wonderful children and grandchildren. It is almost overwhelming to contemplate. Sometimes a person will tell me about their family, and I will just keep quiet about you guys, because it would seem like bragging and make the poor person feel bad. At Grandma Lula's a gal came to take care of Grandma. She was Jane Tolman, one of Beth Tolman's daughters. She had nine children, she told us. She was married in the temple, and after 24 years her husband left her. He also left the church. Her children are almost all "having nothing to do with the church." She feels sad, but of course she loves them. She asked me about my family. I did not say that all of you are married in the temple, tell Joey and Jacob's missions, out of deference to her sad story. I just said I had 29 nine grandchildren, and you are all doing well in your lives and professions. Anyway, when I can do it in all modesty, I do brag a little. You really are such a fine group of people and I am proud of you. If you will always live up to your covenants in the temple, you will not be letting Satan into your lives and letting him get his foot in the door. Love each other with total commitment. Please don't ever let selfishness or worldliness make you forget the importance of the Gospel in your lives. If you find yourselves becoming complacent or negative about your spouse or the Church, REPENT! as Dad would say. Please remember always the example of your mom and dad who were totally committed first to the Gospel, then to each other no matter what, even though we were imperfect people. Well, I guess its my job as mom to give you a little lecture now and then. I do love you all.

Love, Mom

Also keep in mind that it is only 2 1/2 hours to IF so you really could do both if you wanted to.

I saw the signs for the air-show and was going to let you know Ben but I had not gotten around to it yet. My boss says it is a pretty cool one. You could always get hotels in Idaho Falls, that is where most people who go to Arco commute from then some of the poorer folks could crash on my floor. I only have one guest bedroom.
I was going to let you know that I would probly not be able to go to lagoon because my doctor wont let anyone travel very far after 36 weeks and I will be almost 37. But I don't think it should be planned around me. Just let me know what is up and I will let you know if I will be there. Either way I am trying to find someone who wants to take Missy with them because she will be very sad if she can't attend. Love you!
Angela

Ben, I ran into Shawn Dahle on Sunday in Salmon. He was there with his wife and kids. He gave me his address and phone number. He is a Physical Therapist in Logan and works at Cache kids. Many on my colleagues worked there and we knew a lot of the same people. Anyway he is really into biking and would love to see you and your family when you come. He wants you to call him. Also, we would love to go to see the airshow! That sounds lioke a lot more fun than Lagoon but thats my opinion. I am all for it. I haven't touched base with Dan yet but knowing him I would say the airshow would be a lot more fun. Also Dan's parents live 30 minutes from there and we actually have a lot of family in the area. If people needed a place to stay we could set up a few place really easily. Let me know what you decide since you are in charge.

Okay, another change of plans (because I'm in charge). There just so happens to be an airshow in, get this, ARCO, Idaho, on July 26th featuring the Blue Angels and several other attractions. It looks to be a very cool airshow, and in Arco of all places. Anyhoo, several people I've talked with said they would be interested in going to this.

Airshows can be a load of fun if you bring a few things for every person, a chair, a gallon of water, and a hat. Oh, and 1000 spf sunscreen. Then, you're set. I don't know how many people are interested in doing this. We could change Lagoon to Friday, or just blow it off entirely. The airshow would be a lot cheaper, especially if you get your tickets online before hand. The web site is arco air show. and it has a link to buying tickets.

So, give me your feedback. We have the Lagoon tickets, and we don't have to cancel them or anything. But, if we went to the airshow instead, that would be okay by me. I can't stress enough, if you are prepared and early, airshows are some of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences we have had as a family. Being prepared (especially with little kids) is the only thing. Chair, water, hat, sunscreen.

Lisa, as far as our plans are concerned, that's okay. There is another (small) airshow in Cheyenne on the 23rd that we have gone to every year. The Thunderbirds fly over this small community college, they don't even land, but they do their show and it's really cool. We'll probably go to that on Wednesday and then head to Utah.

And, needless to say, this sort of nullifies everything about the hotel arrangements in Draper, if we go to the airshow. I guess we'll need to find lodging, we could even go on to Salmon, for those who dared. Or, we could drive back to Utah, I don't know.

The reunion sounds like it will be lots of fun! I hope we can make it! We are so broke from the move, and keep getting unexpectedly high bills for changing over our phones etc. Anyhoo, we are loving summer here! Having a pool in your backyard certainly helps. :P The boys both have lifevests, and they swim around like fish. I have made some good friends in the ward already, and it really feels like home. The whole month of july here they have "ARTOWN" where they have free concerts and such by the river. We are going to one tonight with a friend, hope the kids like it. Chris is out of town, has been quite a bit lately. He has his masters project in the Mojave desert, so he has to fly to Vegas every week. I miss him, but have kept busy in his absence. It will slow down when school starts too.
I guess that is it!

Congratulations to Polly and Andy! Julie I hope you are all moved in and doing OK. I went to visit Lestie this weekend. Things are pretty crazy at her house. Her baby is really cute and hes so mellow. I am sorry I haven't got on the blogger for awhile. Ben I investigated camping on the Wednesday Thursday of that week and found out it will be really hard to get anything because everyones leaving twon to go camping. However, we do have a great fireworks show and demolition derby that we attended last year and the kids really enjoyed it. It is samll town entertainment but it was fun. The fireworks are right by our house and we like to set up a table and play cards and let the kids play night games before hand. Anyone who wants to come is invited. Life is busy with teenageers and tweenagers to keep up with. No one wants to go to bed in the summer and getting anything productive done is a miracle but we are having lots of fun and I love having the summer off! Julie I miss having you close but I am sure glad you can go see Polly. I think it is so cool all of you younger girls have each other to keep in touch with as you all have babies and are going through the same kinds of things. I love you all.
Love, Lisa

Talk to Angela Ben she got a better rate for some reason the last time. Maybe she could help us all get a better rate this time. I want a king bed in my room!
Polly

Tyler has said we should get a block of rooms in Draper so that we can do stuff at his house, just not sleep there. So, I'm going to try and reserve the same old hotel we always stay in there next to the outlet thingy.

This particular weekend is a good one for Utah because most people from Utah are leaving Utah for the holiday.

Right now it is going to be July 25th - July 27th. We have the Uinta Terrace reserved for 50 people in the Northeast (quiet) section of the park with trees and grass. We got discounted tickets you can purchase from me for 19.50 each, children three and under get in free and can ride the ferris wheel, the merry go round and the train for free. The other rides will cost 16.00 if you want an all day pass.

I will try to get a block of rooms at a nearby hotel (Centerville) and a few suites. The plan is to check in Friday night and chit chat, and then Saturday party at Lagoon until you drop. One more night at the hotel and free for all on Sunday. Food will be planned, so don't worry about it. If we contact you to bring something, please do. Plan on bringing a cooler, though, so you can help carry all the food into the park. Should be a party.

Ben, our e-mail is cdholmes4@hotmail.com

We are sorry that you went through so much trouble with the reunion Ben, we thought it sounded like a ton of fun. We could possibly get to Utah in August if we want to have a get-together then. You could all come to Reno and gamble and go to Lake Tahoe! There are lots of great trails to kill yourself on a bike too! he he

I will see you tomorrow Polly, you know I must love you if I am driving 4 hours with 3 screaming kids!

Chris and Julie - what is your e-mail address? Send me it to my e-mail address, which I'm sure you have.

REUNION NOTICE:

REUNION NOTICE:

There is no reunion.
That is all.

Mostly kidding. Here's the deal: We went to a bit of trouble setting up the reunion at the Snow Mountain ranch, and that fell through because of lack of interest, lack of money, and lack of some people being able to attend. So, you can't say we didn't try.

There are "gatherings" going on, one in July in Salmon which we have yet to decide if we're going. There will be others, no doubt. Anyway, Julie is freaking out wanting me to let everyone know what the plan is and all that. This family is just too big to have an annual reunion placable to everyone involved. And, I've learned, I'm not the one to be in charge of these things. That being said:

I think it would be great, for those who can, to get together sometime this summer, and if there is some event more than one family is going to, we should piggy-back on that. Here are some of the ideas I've heard so far:

Cedar City (Zions National Park) in August.
Salmon over the 4th of July.
Lagoon in Utah for a day (maybe the same time frame as 4th of July in Salmon, maybe do both).

Any other suggestions? Please let me know. More importantly, please let me know any time you CANNOT attend (scout camp, business trip, liposuction...), or if you have any desire whatsoever to get together. A lack of a response will be an indication of you don't care, in which case I will drop this subject like a Frenchman dropping his rifle.

Hello All,
We have been in Reno for about two weeks now and are pretty much all settled. We like the town so far, It has taken a little getting used to. Reno is a little bit bigger than Pocatello! Our new phone numbers are:
Home: 775-747-0556
Juliettes cell: 775-224-5416
Chris cell: 775-224-4976
Juliette has been called as the CTR 8-year-old teacher, but I have not recieved a calling yet. We are hoping to be able to go to the reunion in July but we will have to see how the work schedule and the finances work out. that's about it. Take care, Chris

Sweet you guys. Hope everything works for you in Reno. I will make note of the addresses and numbers.

Nothing new on the reunion or the Salmon river trip. I haven't heard. I will let you all know when I find anything out.

I finally graduated, graduation is tomorrow, but I wont be attending. Just send me the diploma, that's all I want. Julie and the kids are doing fine, the boys and I are going camping tonight for the fathers and sons thing. Should be interesting.

So what is up with the Salmon reunion? I haven't heard anything about it till now... Ben????

Here is our new address:
1295 Grand Summit Dr.
Apt. #D228
Reno, Nevada 89523
Juliette cell 208-520-6825
chris cell 208-520-6819
These numbers are only temporary, we will post the new ones when we get to Reno. We will be there on May 22.

We are so excited to see you guys at the end of the month! Let us know how everything goes and make sure to give me your new address and phone numbers.
We hope everyone is doing well.
Ben I heard about the possible reunion in Salmon Let me know how that is evolving. I think Salmon is a great idea I really need to get to Salmon and see Grandma as you all do probubly.
Andy is probubly going to move over to Engineering sometime this month he will be their new dispatch engineer.We will probubly take a pay cut but it should wiegh out in the long run.
We are all doing well.
Polly and family

Hello??? Anybody come here anymore?

Well, Chris recieved the "official" offer yesterday!!! We are going to Reno for sure now. I am excited! I had a garage sale today, after "dejunking" and made $250! Not too bad eh? That will help with u-haul costs for sure. Anyway, Chris got into U of Idaho too, but turned them down because Reno has a better offer.

Sounds great we are excited to have family move closer!

It looks like we are heading to Reno for graduate school. It is not official yet, but Dr. Nowak made me an offer over the phone and I accepted. It still has to be approved by the department head and the graduate school. We are pretty excited about this. Kansas State was our first choice but I was placed on an alternate list there and the prospects of me getting in did not look good. UNR was our second choice with U of I being the third choice. I will be awarded a research assistantship (full tuition waiver and $15,000 stipend) in Dr. Bob Nowaks lab. Bob is a nationally recognized plant ecologist and a "big hitter" according to my advisor here at ISU. I will be working at the Mojave Global Change Facility near Las Vegas studying the effects of predicted global change models on desert plants (ie. increased precipitation, increased nitrogen deposition, and increased CO2). I am excited to work in a lab that actually has some money and nice equipment. We will be moving towards the end of May. That is about all for now I guess. Take care, Chris.

Thanks for the tip Polly, I have been wondering where that site is!

Well, Reno was awesome- we really like most of the town. If we can manage to keep our gambling urges in check- it will be nice. :) Just kidding, the strip is kind of trashy with all sorts of strip joints and such, but that is very avoidable- in the center of the town. We would never have to go there if we didn't want to. Otherwise, the interveiw went well. Chris is pretty impressed with Dr. Nowak, and hopefully he was just as impressed with Chris! We should hear by the end of this week. They would want him there as soon as he graduates, so we have alot to do in one month!!

Hey eveyone Joey let me know an easier way to write him. It is called Dear Elder.com They will print off and deliver your letter for the cost of a stamp. It is cool. They also have packages they can mail him freshly baked cookies. Everyone needs to support him and write their missionary.
We are doing OK Brock has herpies. He has cankers all over his mouth and hasn't ben sleeping or eating. It has been a long week.
Congrats to Ben! She is beautiful. I love her name! what fun!
Well I better go!
Polly

Polly, so I deleted your e-mail address before I added it to my book...um could you send it again??? Thanks! So did you figure out if you are going to be able to meet me in Reno or not? Call me, or e-mail in the next couple of days so we can solidify some plans if you can.

Congrats on the boy Angela! Did you get my e-mail??

Where is everyone? Do you ever check this anymore???

Hey Ben, you will be glad to hear Chris just applied to Colorado State! Just covering our bases per say...it would be fun to live near you though.

Ben, CONGRATULATIONS!!! She is a cutie! So glad all is well.

pictures of Cassidy are up HERE

Hi all. I'm getting ready to post some pictures of our latest addition, Cassidy. Julie and Cassidy came home from the hospital Tuesday, she was born Monday morning at 4:30. I'm still recovering from it all...Julie's fine. I got to take the week off and work sent a big beautiful bouquet of flowers, far nicer than what I had gotten Julie.

I'm trying to start my final project for graduation. I'm procrastinating it big time. When I finish the project I'm done forever, so you might think I'd be more motivated to get it out of the way, but you'd be wrong.

Juliette and Chris, if you move to Kansas we will come out and see you. We also need to get over to see Julie's sister and husband out in Missouri. That would be quite a trip, but it would be fun. Of course if you move to Nevada, well, that would be great for Polly.

Hope everyone is happy and healthy and all that.

Polly,
Hey, I got your message about not coming up here- shame on you! :) Just kidding, I understand. It is hard to have so many people that you know in one area, pretty impossible to visit them all. I do have some good news though, Chris and I are coming to Reno! I decided that if I was going to live there, I wanted to see it first. We are coming in on Sunday April 13, and will be there until Tuesday. We fly out at like 1:30 Tuesday afternoon though, so not much time that day. We will be staying in the University Inn, and are renting a car. I guess Chris has a bunch of stuff to do on campus Monday so maybe you could come and show me the town? I am just bringing Bryce along, so we could have some fun! Let me know if you want to come, it would be fun to see you!
Love, Juliette


Polly I tried to e-mail you this and it was rejected. Can you e-mail me your new address? I tried the andnpolly@desert-express.com?

We are still torn as to go North or South after Andy's house. I think that we will probubly end up going to Mom's because she has my portacrib. I accidently left it in our hotel room and she went and got it for me. So I really need that. We will see though. It all depends on Andy. I will call you though and let you know.

Hi Polly, I wish I could go to Reno too, but alas the extreme lack of money stands in the way. Oh well! It would be nice to see you. I would love to have you come here and see us! Just let me know and I can arrange a dinner or something. The dentist sounds awful! Sounds like Abbey inherited my teeth, they are bad! Fortunately my boys haven't had any cavities yet, and they love the dentist, they are due for their cleanings pretty soon. Well, I guess that's it, let me know when you are coming!
Juliette

Juliette and Chris taht is really exciting. We hope you get to go where you want to. Let us know the exact dates you are going to Reno maybe we could meet you there. Let us know.
I just got back from Reno on Friday. I took Abby to the dentist. It looks like I am going to pay to put her under to get her two cavities drilled. She had two last year and she screamed the whole time. So this time they are going to sedate her. I can not believe it.
Well nothing else is really going on here. We are going to Andy's parents house this weekend. We will probubly stop by Lisa's and I am going to call Angela and tell her maybe we will meet at your house Juliette?
Polly

The trip to Kansas was very nice. K-State has a whole bunch of money and very unique research opotunities. The eastern part of Kansas where the campus is located is not the stereotypical Kansas. There were lots of rolling hills and lots of trees. I am still wating for an official offer from the school, which should be coming in the next week. I was also contacted recently by the University of Nevada Reno and I will be heading there for a visit in about two weeks. This is another well respected school in my field, but I don't think they have quite as many resources as K-State. We are trying to keep an open mind about all of our options. We should know by the middle of April where we are going.
Chris