Okay technology is great! However, buyer beware, when you put all of your trust in technology and it fails to perform. Well you're just up the creek.
This past week or two or maybe it's been all summer long, my laptop just hasn't performed. Takes three, no five times the duration to perform a simple task and some not so simple. Okay, I finally gave up to it to the Geek Squad. First, we performed a quick diagnosis and then determined that some of my issue was I needed more RAM. Install 8MB of RAM and learned that Windows 32 would not handle it so let's try the computer with only updating to 4MB. Nope that didn't work.
Next was to reinstall the 8 MB and upgrade Windows to Windows 64. Okay no problem other than this will totally delete your hard drive. Okay do a backup and restore the data. Do I have all of my program keys? Who saves all of those strings of numbers and alpha digits when they purchase new programs. Okay it wasn't so bad but it did take some time.
Finally, got the laptop home and tried a few programs. Hm...wait a minute none of the programs can find my data. The data is all there but the programs can not locate. Okay back to the squad room and spent two hours waiting for them to re-map all of my data. At least I'm up and running to share some of my frustrations with computers with you. Enjoy my sentiment below:
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=computer+frustrations&view=detail&mid=973B216AE50D50177A39973B216AE50D50177A39&first=0&FORM=LKVR8
What would we do without our computers???
Showing posts with label Reflections. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reflections. Show all posts
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Ramblings of the Past Two Months
Well it's only be a few...months since I last posted any happenings on my blog. It's not like anything hasn't been happening in my unusual dull life. Hm...let's see.
Christmas came and went with the New Year. Cheryl and I actually went to our timeshare and crashed for the New Year weekend there. Puzzles and videos occupied the weekend. It was a much needed break from everything.
Amongst the Christmas bustle, I was focused and able to select and announce my Core Leadership for our new Heavy Division. Now with the Core Leadership on board, it was time to begin the transition and strategies. The new year brought two strategic planning meetings, two annual business meetings, project site visits and sharing of strategic plans, engineer training, union negotiations and the usual day to day functions of keeping a business viable and profitable.
January was also filled with the on slot of projects to bid. Hm, in the last two weeks we have bid four projects in one day and three or four other projects. We are aggressively pursuing the work and almost had two or three projects by less than $50,000. They always say that second place is the best position to be when bidding the work because you probably didn't leave anything out of the bid. However, it just doesn't pay the bills.
Cheryl is off to visit her mother in the valley of the sun, while I freeze my tush off here.
Jenny also announced last week that we are now expecting our 6th grandchild. Boy do these kids know how to make me feel old. We are excited and thrilled with the news. She has been really facing a battle with the pregnancy and the usual cold flu season that has taken more than it's fair share with their family.
Rachel is planning on coming out in March and so we are preparing for their visit and look forward to seeing them.
Finally, Taylor well he didn't show up to work on Friday. Figured he had sluffed work to hit the slopes and yup, I was right. Came home Friday night to find him in bed with a dislocated shoulder. Work would have been more fun but he still doesn't believe it.
Now I'm in February and wondering what I'm going to do for the remainder of the year?
Monday, December 14, 2009
Last Week in a Glance
Monday woke up to icy roads and snow. Flew to LA to ARTBA Western Regional Meetings. Dined with the stars at Crafts Restaurant. Of course us contractors didn't realize that to the side of us was Andie Mac Dowell and behind us was Jeff Bridges. Thanks to our supportive ARTBA staff we realized the facts after our stars had vacated. Oh well our dinner conversation was much more interesting. Tuesday, awoke to a phone call from our department of transportation official who was schedule to present to the ARTBA on the state of affairs in our state. What's that you missed your flight. Oh and you want me to do what? Yup, I ended up presenting the state of affairs to 50-60 individuals for the state. Even had the Texas Transportation Director ask me to give his presentation. Flew home to snow and cold.
Wednesday received official notice that we were not successful bidders on the $1.1 billion dollar project that we were all counting on. Thursday, met with the University's CM Chair and reviewed Advisory Board Agenda. Presented to a construction management class on upper managements perspective of safety. Attended a dinner to express appreciation to our team who pursued the work. Friday focused in on reorganization and pursuing work and completed the day by conducting the Advisory Board for our University's Construction Management Program.
Saturday was the day to Christmas shop. Bought a large expensive gift for my wife and then had buyer remorse and returned the gift. Hm, ... hopefully, she will forgive me. Sunday more slushy snow. Family get together and a bit of accordion playing to top the evening off.
The start of another week has begun.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Ramblings & Family
Well you all know that I'm concerned about the reorganization of our company and how I will structure my area of responsibilities. Decided two weeks ago that I would wait and see what will happen. Hm.., no changes or indication of movement. Well I take that back our support group is moving forward and HR and Safety have begun to move out of our office and consolidate into a central location.
Last week, attended another SLT and found out that not everyone is on the same page as evidenced in the meeting. Opinions were expressed from top management to senior management have how the meeting should be conducted and what should be covered. Makes it a bit difficult if everyone is not on the same page. I'm sure sooner or later we will get there.
Attended sister company strategic planning so as to demonstrate a unified effort and become more acquainted to how they conduct business and the challenges they faced. Came away frustrated and discourage. Truthfully, do not see a united front and concerned with no action. Determined that the only way that I'm going to obtain answers is to move forward until someone says no.
Put up Christmas Lights yesterday before the cold winter weather strikes. Beautiful day to be out and about. Started new exercise program with our new WII Fit program. Makes working out fun. Maybe I will lose that 25 plus pounds.
Missing my family this week. Thought a lot about Rachel and her family in Ohio. Thank goodness for blogs. She does a great job of keeping us updated on the family and the fun events in their life. Blessed to spend a few hours with Jenny today. Wished we could have seen the kids but it's that time of year when sickness abounds. Always makes me proud and happy to see my grandchildren.
Thankful to find my son with a gleam in his eye as he has found someone that appears to be special to him to date. He hasn't stopped talking about her for two days now. Time will only tell.
Thank goodness that through all of this journey called life, I have my best friend and wife to support me and my children and grandchildren to bring me joy. Life might be tough but the family makes it all worthwhile.
Last week, attended another SLT and found out that not everyone is on the same page as evidenced in the meeting. Opinions were expressed from top management to senior management have how the meeting should be conducted and what should be covered. Makes it a bit difficult if everyone is not on the same page. I'm sure sooner or later we will get there.
Attended sister company strategic planning so as to demonstrate a unified effort and become more acquainted to how they conduct business and the challenges they faced. Came away frustrated and discourage. Truthfully, do not see a united front and concerned with no action. Determined that the only way that I'm going to obtain answers is to move forward until someone says no.
Put up Christmas Lights yesterday before the cold winter weather strikes. Beautiful day to be out and about. Started new exercise program with our new WII Fit program. Makes working out fun. Maybe I will lose that 25 plus pounds.
Missing my family this week. Thought a lot about Rachel and her family in Ohio. Thank goodness for blogs. She does a great job of keeping us updated on the family and the fun events in their life. Blessed to spend a few hours with Jenny today. Wished we could have seen the kids but it's that time of year when sickness abounds. Always makes me proud and happy to see my grandchildren.
Thankful to find my son with a gleam in his eye as he has found someone that appears to be special to him to date. He hasn't stopped talking about her for two days now. Time will only tell.
Thank goodness that through all of this journey called life, I have my best friend and wife to support me and my children and grandchildren to bring me joy. Life might be tough but the family makes it all worthwhile.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Time of Change
Life comes at us in a blink of the eye. If we are not paying attention we missed the train. This has been a roller coaster ride for me over the last month. I thought that I should start recording some of the my thoughts before I have forgotten all.
Hm, in the past week...
Drove to Twin Falls to attend an Initial DRB Meeting and to see progress on project. The drive gave me good time to reflect on the reorganization changes in the company and how they will affect me and others. How should I organize my division? Who should I choose as my second in command? Who should I seek out for advice?
Drove home same night and wonder if I should attend the Rapid Bridge Replacement on Pioneer Crossing at midnight. Decided to not attend and laid awake all night thinking about it. Spent weekend creating a movie to show neighbors of our adventure to Greece last May. Sunday, rested all day and wonder if I should go down at midnight and watch the second bridge replacement. Too tired went to bed and laid awake all night wondering about the how I should organize my division.
New week and a new day. Rearranged schedule to accommodate meetings of my staff to begin transition into new organization. Would be nice to know that my staff has been called to such a meeting. Conducted performance review of Executive Assistant, met with Communications Director and discussed a number of items including reorganization, and tried to discuss more in detail reorganization with my supervisor.
Newly formed SLT Group met and discussed how to begin transitions to new organization. Hm, when are we going to educate all of our employees on changes. I'm handling numerous questions from employees now. Stressed the need to announce to employees ASAP. Met as a individual company and discussed reorganization, came out of meeting totally confused and frustrated. Hm, this doesn't seem to be what I envisioned. Laid awake all night considering organization of division. Tried to visit aging grandmother unable to due to flu. Wife concerned that I will contract flu bug.
Received advise on divisional organization and fielded more questions concerning the reorganization. Met with project teams and discussed project progress and scheduling concerns. Reviewed financials -worried about how to obtain more profitable work. Concerned with charitable donations committed by senior staff members and the cost. Who approved? Considered more reorganization structure. Suggested potential organization structure to supervisor.
Discussed organization changes with my wife. Been discussing with her for months. Wife is probably tired of discussion. Thankful for a supportive wife.
Drove to Duschene and met with project team and Owner reps. How can we work together better? Concerned with project team's frustrations. Concerned with Owner's perception. Thought more about division organization solidifying my organization. Received a phone call from a disgruntled, frustrated, and disappointed employee concerning his new role in organization. Concerned that we might lose this employee now.
Met with Carpenter Union and listened to a new proposal to settle our Agreement. Consider proposal. Received phone call from son asking if I could make a presentation to college in 40 minutes. Hm, sure why not. Reviewed backlog report and variance reports, discussed further reorganization structuring with supervisor still no clear direction, wondered if we would see an announcement today to employees.
Drove to university, presented to construction students why I love heavy highway work...hm look at the impact I have on every one's life. Also discussed with them the importance of gaining experience in the field and what we as employer look for in potential employees.
Back to office, thought more of how to organize division, reviewed estimate for mine project in Wyoming, reviewed several contract agreements and noted concerns.
Breathed a sign of relief to see a communicatoin to all employees concerning reorganization. Read communicaton. Concerned about communication and how employee will understand. Not well done! Recieved second communication just from a different person. Same communication.
Discussed project pursuits and divisional organization with VIP. Wonder more what should I do. Concerned about outfall of overall organization.
Okay, did I cover everything now. Hm...I wonder what will happen this next week?
Hm, in the past week...
Drove to Twin Falls to attend an Initial DRB Meeting and to see progress on project. The drive gave me good time to reflect on the reorganization changes in the company and how they will affect me and others. How should I organize my division? Who should I choose as my second in command? Who should I seek out for advice?
Drove home same night and wonder if I should attend the Rapid Bridge Replacement on Pioneer Crossing at midnight. Decided to not attend and laid awake all night thinking about it. Spent weekend creating a movie to show neighbors of our adventure to Greece last May. Sunday, rested all day and wonder if I should go down at midnight and watch the second bridge replacement. Too tired went to bed and laid awake all night wondering about the how I should organize my division.
New week and a new day. Rearranged schedule to accommodate meetings of my staff to begin transition into new organization. Would be nice to know that my staff has been called to such a meeting. Conducted performance review of Executive Assistant, met with Communications Director and discussed a number of items including reorganization, and tried to discuss more in detail reorganization with my supervisor.
Newly formed SLT Group met and discussed how to begin transitions to new organization. Hm, when are we going to educate all of our employees on changes. I'm handling numerous questions from employees now. Stressed the need to announce to employees ASAP. Met as a individual company and discussed reorganization, came out of meeting totally confused and frustrated. Hm, this doesn't seem to be what I envisioned. Laid awake all night considering organization of division. Tried to visit aging grandmother unable to due to flu. Wife concerned that I will contract flu bug.
Received advise on divisional organization and fielded more questions concerning the reorganization. Met with project teams and discussed project progress and scheduling concerns. Reviewed financials -worried about how to obtain more profitable work. Concerned with charitable donations committed by senior staff members and the cost. Who approved? Considered more reorganization structure. Suggested potential organization structure to supervisor.
Discussed organization changes with my wife. Been discussing with her for months. Wife is probably tired of discussion. Thankful for a supportive wife.
Drove to Duschene and met with project team and Owner reps. How can we work together better? Concerned with project team's frustrations. Concerned with Owner's perception. Thought more about division organization solidifying my organization. Received a phone call from a disgruntled, frustrated, and disappointed employee concerning his new role in organization. Concerned that we might lose this employee now.
Met with Carpenter Union and listened to a new proposal to settle our Agreement. Consider proposal. Received phone call from son asking if I could make a presentation to college in 40 minutes. Hm, sure why not. Reviewed backlog report and variance reports, discussed further reorganization structuring with supervisor still no clear direction, wondered if we would see an announcement today to employees.
Drove to university, presented to construction students why I love heavy highway work...hm look at the impact I have on every one's life. Also discussed with them the importance of gaining experience in the field and what we as employer look for in potential employees.
Back to office, thought more of how to organize division, reviewed estimate for mine project in Wyoming, reviewed several contract agreements and noted concerns.
Breathed a sign of relief to see a communicatoin to all employees concerning reorganization. Read communicaton. Concerned about communication and how employee will understand. Not well done! Recieved second communication just from a different person. Same communication.
Discussed project pursuits and divisional organization with VIP. Wonder more what should I do. Concerned about outfall of overall organization.
Okay, did I cover everything now. Hm...I wonder what will happen this next week?
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Fifty Years Worth
I celebrated my 50th birthday a little over a month ago. In doing so I have begun to reflect upon the progress and changes in the world that I have been fortunate enough to have witnessed. I was always amazed to hear my grandparents speak of seeing the progress of society in their life. For example, my grandfather's first job on a construction project was to keep the team of horses watered. Now we are using GPS controlled machines that practically operate themselves. Hm...what have I seen in my lifetime? Well here's my list:
In the Entertainment World -
Black and White Television broadcasting favorites such as Rin Tin Tin, Lassie, and the Rifle Man. Sunday evening at my grandparents to watch the Wonderful World of Disney. Now days we have the "real thing" reality shows such as Survivor, Bachelor, American Idol and Dancing with the Stars.
We went to movies at the Drive In with be a large screen outside where you placed a speaker in the vehicle window to watch the show. Yes, there were also the standard movie theaters downtown but with only one screen, not the Cineaplex Theaters with a dozen screens to choose from.
Speaking of Technology...
Let's see... school teachers instructing the class on how to use a "Slide Ruler", then came the calculator era. Wow, my college professor would even let us use an HP41C to take our exams; however, we had to submit our program formulas ahead of time to him if we were to utilize any program features. The first computer I can remember took up a "small area" in our business. Small area defined as a room that was 15 feet by 12 feet. Just enough room to walk around the computer admiring the "State of Art". We've come a long way now with laptops, dual screens and the smart phones.
Oh how we could not reminiscent about the evolution of the phone. Remember the standard black rotary dial phone that was accompanied with usually a two or three party line. "Hello, Who's that other person talking to someone else on my phone?" At least in those days we always knew where the phone was... on the counter top. Now days with a remote in nearly every room we run around the house trying to find a phone to answer when it rings and yes I did check the cradle it's suppose to be in.
I remember also receiving my first "Cellular Phone" nearly as large as a small military combat walkie talkie. Man, was I hot then out on my projects with my new "brick phone" I was one productive machine. Finally, I have my cell phone now that plays all my favorite music, surfs the internet, texts, twitters and even tracks my schedule. Oh, yea, you're right I can even make a phone call with this smart phone.
I can't say for sure but I would dare say that in my half century of life, the average life span of the human being has also increased. Amazing what our medical knowledge can now do. Hmm, forty plus years as a diabetic has witnessed testing my urine 4 times per day to pricking one's figure 4 times per day. You can now obtain your A1C results within minutes instead of days. Don't forget about insulin applications, one, two injections to one injection every time I ate and now i wear a funny looking pager on my belt that they call a pump. But who would ever think that the strict adherance to a schedule would now become flexible for a diabetic.
If you think that that is amazing look at what we are doing with heart treatments. Speaking from experience, a quintuple (5) bypass one day and two days later, I'm up walking and beginning my rehab. Six weeks, and I'm back to work and feel better than ever.
In my lifetime, I have seen President Eisenhower to now our first black American President, President Obama. President Nixon who resigned, to President Clinton who truly defined the word "is". Transportation has gone from old black model Fords to fancy Corvair, to Hummers and now hybrids. I think that there is even a movie similar to the modes of transportation I have seen called Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.
Styles from short hair to long hair to back to short hair. Bell bottom pants and plaid pants to just plain Levis. What ever happened to the Converse Tennis Shoe?Where did Nike and Addidas all come from? Yes folks, I survived the 60's,70's,80's and 90's. I think fashion is just going around in circles. Kids today are wearing the same clothes I did in Jr. High and listening to the same rock groups. Remember, we were the originals!
Yup, I have seen a lot of things in my life time and will continue to experience many more awesome progressions as my life continues. Indeed, I have seen a heck of a lot of events and things but more importantly, my life has been blessed by these great events and makes me appreciate the good and bad. I look forward to another fifty years of progress.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
My Best Friend
Cheryl and I celebrated our 19th anniversary today. Wow, it only seems like yesterday that we were just getting married.
Hm, they say time flies when you are having fun. I would have to say the last 19 years have been not only fun but great.
I'm a lucky and blessed man to be married to my best friend. Cheryl has blessed my life and my children's life. Cheryl treated my children has her own and she blessed each one with her influence and her love for life. When life was tough, it is Cheryl who finds the humor in life and brings the life to the party. We never know from minute to minute what fun and zanny thing she might do that keeps us all smiling and loving her.
Thanks Honey, for the last 19 years. I'm looking forward to many more and you will always be everything to me. You are my best friend!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Life Keeps Changing
Well in the next few days (yes there is wagers on when) the family photo above will change. Philip and Jenny will have a new addition to there family; and John and Rachel will also have a new addition. Two new grandsons will soon enter the J Clyde Family. I keep telling my daughters that April 1 would be a great day to have both grandsons enter the world. We could really celebrate April Fools Day then and only in a good way. Hm, April Fools could be a day for Papa and all of his grandsons or maybe even all of the grandchildren to get together and celebrate. After all Papa is a April baby too.
Cheryl and I had to get out of the house this afternoon. It's been a busy week let's see. First, time for goal setting at work and determining what should be our goals. One filed lawsuit with a subcontractor to deal with, no make that the same sub but now two lawsuits. Careful how I trend, I don't want to step on any ones toes here; but I may just drop a a ten ton hammer on them toes. North Star Course is getting closer and closer and I'm still not quite sure if all of my staff is fully committed. I'm going to have to make some phone calls and press for the hard commitments now. Let's see. Grandma Clyde is in a care facility and I haven't been up in several weeks to see her. Dad has is test result back and we are concern about what the future might hold here. Yup, Life never changes!
So as you can see we must run away this afternoon to just reflect and enjoy. What a day it was, a perfect spring day to enjoy on the ski slopes. The snow was great and Park City Resort wasn't too bad for crowds but the lines seemed to move quickly. It was perfect short sleeve weather skiing and enjoying the outdoors.
The drive up the canyon was beautiful and we kicked open the sun roof to let the cool spring air in as we drove and discussed our upcoming trip to Greece. Now that trip will generate a blog or two.
Checked out the Provo for fishing and just about stopped in a place or two but I'm sorry I was just to lazy to put all of my gear on for an hour and then strip it back off to move on. I settled for just imagining the river and being on it with the fly rod.
We then decided to swing into Park City and check out the ski slopes and they were as good as anyone could imagine. In fact, they were great. After checking out the slopes we were hungry and so we ate at the Mexican Cantina there at the resort and enjoyed a great meal.
Travis and Carrie Jensen happened to see at us the Cantina and said hello and we visited for quite awhile. They are celebrating their 14th anniversary, Happy anniversary.
What a day it was, came back home fully refreshed and ready for another week of hell. Oh yea, remember us checking out the ski slopes and snow was great. That is as far as I went. I'm not a skier and never did say that we went skiing. Sorry Tay, I'll let you experience the real thing.
Cheryl and I had to get out of the house this afternoon. It's been a busy week let's see. First, time for goal setting at work and determining what should be our goals. One filed lawsuit with a subcontractor to deal with, no make that the same sub but now two lawsuits. Careful how I trend, I don't want to step on any ones toes here; but I may just drop a a ten ton hammer on them toes. North Star Course is getting closer and closer and I'm still not quite sure if all of my staff is fully committed. I'm going to have to make some phone calls and press for the hard commitments now. Let's see. Grandma Clyde is in a care facility and I haven't been up in several weeks to see her. Dad has is test result back and we are concern about what the future might hold here. Yup, Life never changes!
So as you can see we must run away this afternoon to just reflect and enjoy. What a day it was, a perfect spring day to enjoy on the ski slopes. The snow was great and Park City Resort wasn't too bad for crowds but the lines seemed to move quickly. It was perfect short sleeve weather skiing and enjoying the outdoors.
The drive up the canyon was beautiful and we kicked open the sun roof to let the cool spring air in as we drove and discussed our upcoming trip to Greece. Now that trip will generate a blog or two.
Checked out the Provo for fishing and just about stopped in a place or two but I'm sorry I was just to lazy to put all of my gear on for an hour and then strip it back off to move on. I settled for just imagining the river and being on it with the fly rod.
We then decided to swing into Park City and check out the ski slopes and they were as good as anyone could imagine. In fact, they were great. After checking out the slopes we were hungry and so we ate at the Mexican Cantina there at the resort and enjoyed a great meal.
Travis and Carrie Jensen happened to see at us the Cantina and said hello and we visited for quite awhile. They are celebrating their 14th anniversary, Happy anniversary.
What a day it was, came back home fully refreshed and ready for another week of hell. Oh yea, remember us checking out the ski slopes and snow was great. That is as far as I went. I'm not a skier and never did say that we went skiing. Sorry Tay, I'll let you experience the real thing.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Papa in TROUBLE!
Thursday this past week, my wife hosted a bridal shower at the home. Okay no problem, being the social man that I am, I gratefully consented to hosting the party and figure that I would just retreat to my Bear's dungeon in the basement. Also realizing that my 4 year old granddaughter, Adyson, would be attending the bridal shower I prepared the Bear's dungeon to be tempting just in case she became bored with the bridal shower. Nothing serious just some videos and Mario Kart to help her make her mind up.
Adyson was a good sport and attended the shower and would come to the Bear's dungeon for a couple of short visits but returned immediately to the shower festivities. Finally, as anticipated, Adyson could stand the festivities no longer and ventured to the Bear's dungeon to asked Papa if we could watch a movie.
No problem, who wouldn't want to watch a great movie with his granddaughter. Now let's see Papa was careful not to let her pick from "Friday the 13th" or any of his Bruce Willis "Die Hard" movies.
Let's find something PG and fit for a little princess. Adyson carefully reviewed the assortment of DVD's and selected one she had not seen but asked about what it was all about. Papa quickly exclaimed: "Are you kidding? Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles..." I thought Adyson responded with "Doesn't sound too bad. I'll try to stay awake." Papa responded, "As you wish" and we gathered on the couch and snuggled up and began the movie.
That day, Papa was amazed to discover that when he was saying "As you wish", what he meant was, "I love you." And even more amazing was the day he realized she truly loved him back.
I would have never thought that a simple story of a princess' search for her "true love" would have created so much commotion. Soon my wife came down, just about the unspeakable time that the princess dove into the infested waters of shrieking eels. "What are you doing, letting her watch this movie. She'll be up all night with nightmares!"
Okay, Okay, there are a few scary moments in the movie. As those moments came such as the shrieking eels and the dark black forest scene, Adyson would turn and ask if she could snuggle up close to Papa and all I could say of course was "As you wish." Now remember Adyson is no dummy, she had already covered her eyes and let out a sigh of disgust at the first kissing scene and was appreciative of the movie noting the same. Besides who wouldn't love the famous trio of villains/heroes in this movie.
Next it was Adyson's mom who firmly wanted to know what I was doing watching this movie with her. Lighten up mom, it's a fairy tale and all little girls like fairy tales.
"All right. Where is the poison? The battle of wits has begun." "You're that smart? I can't compete with you physically, and you're no match for my brains." Needless to say Papa was in trouble, Inconceivable!
"This is true love - you think this happens every day?" How could anyone have nightmares with stories of "Mawage. Mawage is wot bwings us togeder tooday. Mawage, that bwessed awangment, that dweam wifin a dweam... And wuv, tru wuv, will fowow you foweva... So tweasure your wuv. Inconceivable!
Adyson slept peacefully that night, she actually stayed over night with us. I think her mom thought nightmares, I'll show you Papa. May have been that she was exhausted, after all it was 10:00 pm when the movie ended and she went to bed. Let me put it this way. Have you ever heard of Plato, Aristotle, Socrates? Morons in my opinion, I'm sure Adyson slept with dreams of the many lessons learned from Princess Bride such as:
*You rush a miracle man, you get rotten miracles.
* Not much can get in the way of true love.
* There's not a lot of money in revenge.
* Beware of princes who smile too much.
* Overconfidence can be deadly.
* Inconceivable does not mean impossible.
* Getting fired can wreck a person's self-confidence.
* Revenge doesn't pay too well.
* Remember that a chocolate coating can help things go down easier.
* Sometimes there are happy endings.
* Even if you're the best, there's always someone better.
* Assets don't always look like assets.
* Don't give up! It ain't over 'till it's over.
* Even when it appears to be over, it might not be over.
Papa in trouble? I think that Adyson would probably put it best. INCONCEIVABLE!
Adyson was a good sport and attended the shower and would come to the Bear's dungeon for a couple of short visits but returned immediately to the shower festivities. Finally, as anticipated, Adyson could stand the festivities no longer and ventured to the Bear's dungeon to asked Papa if we could watch a movie.
No problem, who wouldn't want to watch a great movie with his granddaughter. Now let's see Papa was careful not to let her pick from "Friday the 13th" or any of his Bruce Willis "Die Hard" movies. Let's find something PG and fit for a little princess. Adyson carefully reviewed the assortment of DVD's and selected one she had not seen but asked about what it was all about. Papa quickly exclaimed: "Are you kidding? Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles..." I thought Adyson responded with "Doesn't sound too bad. I'll try to stay awake." Papa responded, "As you wish" and we gathered on the couch and snuggled up and began the movie.
That day, Papa was amazed to discover that when he was saying "As you wish", what he meant was, "I love you." And even more amazing was the day he realized she truly loved him back.
I would have never thought that a simple story of a princess' search for her "true love" would have created so much commotion. Soon my wife came down, just about the unspeakable time that the princess dove into the infested waters of shrieking eels. "What are you doing, letting her watch this movie. She'll be up all night with nightmares!" 
Okay, Okay, there are a few scary moments in the movie. As those moments came such as the shrieking eels and the dark black forest scene, Adyson would turn and ask if she could snuggle up close to Papa and all I could say of course was "As you wish." Now remember Adyson is no dummy, she had already covered her eyes and let out a sigh of disgust at the first kissing scene and was appreciative of the movie noting the same. Besides who wouldn't love the famous trio of villains/heroes in this movie. Next it was Adyson's mom who firmly wanted to know what I was doing watching this movie with her. Lighten up mom, it's a fairy tale and all little girls like fairy tales.
"All right. Where is the poison? The battle of wits has begun." "You're that smart? I can't compete with you physically, and you're no match for my brains." Needless to say Papa was in trouble, Inconceivable!
"This is true love - you think this happens every day?" How could anyone have nightmares with stories of "Mawage. Mawage is wot bwings us togeder tooday. Mawage, that bwessed awangment, that dweam wifin a dweam... And wuv, tru wuv, will fowow you foweva... So tweasure your wuv. Inconceivable!Adyson slept peacefully that night, she actually stayed over night with us. I think her mom thought nightmares, I'll show you Papa. May have been that she was exhausted, after all it was 10:00 pm when the movie ended and she went to bed. Let me put it this way. Have you ever heard of Plato, Aristotle, Socrates? Morons in my opinion, I'm sure Adyson slept with dreams of the many lessons learned from Princess Bride such as:
*You rush a miracle man, you get rotten miracles.
* Not much can get in the way of true love.
* There's not a lot of money in revenge.
* Beware of princes who smile too much.
* Overconfidence can be deadly.
* Inconceivable does not mean impossible.
* Getting fired can wreck a person's self-confidence.
* Revenge doesn't pay too well.
* Remember that a chocolate coating can help things go down easier.
* Sometimes there are happy endings.
* Even if you're the best, there's always someone better.
* Assets don't always look like assets.
* Don't give up! It ain't over 'till it's over.
* Even when it appears to be over, it might not be over.
Papa in trouble? I think that Adyson would probably put it best. INCONCEIVABLE!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
What happen to the blogging!
I was accused today of not keeping up on my blog. As you can see it's been a day or so since I..., okay it's been a month and 10 days since I last blogged. SORRY!
Life can be busy. Since my last blog I have experienced in some way or fashion the following:
*Dealt with one, two, three, a lot of difficult people
*Faced the reality of I'm getting old
*Experienced the sadness of having my grandmother suffer and placed in a care center
*Consider future employees future
*Assist others who are unemployed, underemployed, or don't like their job.
*Prepare for a mediation and claim settlement
*Go to mediation
*Meet with the State on another project and claim - more difficult individuals
*Follow the Stimulus package and wonder what the impact will be
*Answer media questions in regards to the stimulus package
*Plan a vacation
*Wonder about how my children are prepared and their families
*Organize my photos and back them up
Well as you can see life is busy and I have set the blogging to the side for a moment. The blessings of life that we do have is the little times when great things happen and we can just enjoy. Like the three days amongst all the madness that two of our grandchildren, Adyson and Lexi spent with Cheryl and I. Just some pure heaven every evening to come home and spend a few minutes with them before they went to bed.
This blog is in honor of my daughter, Jenny, who got after me for not blogging. Okay, I got the message there's something always to share with those we love. So find the time and
Life can be busy. Since my last blog I have experienced in some way or fashion the following:
*Dealt with one, two, three, a lot of difficult people
*Faced the reality of I'm getting old
*Experienced the sadness of having my grandmother suffer and placed in a care center
*Consider future employees future
*Assist others who are unemployed, underemployed, or don't like their job.
*Prepare for a mediation and claim settlement
*Go to mediation
*Meet with the State on another project and claim - more difficult individuals
*Follow the Stimulus package and wonder what the impact will be
*Answer media questions in regards to the stimulus package
*Plan a vacation
*Wonder about how my children are prepared and their families
*Organize my photos and back them up
Well as you can see life is busy and I have set the blogging to the side for a moment. The blessings of life that we do have is the little times when great things happen and we can just enjoy. Like the three days amongst all the madness that two of our grandchildren, Adyson and Lexi spent with Cheryl and I. Just some pure heaven every evening to come home and spend a few minutes with them before they went to bed.
This blog is in honor of my daughter, Jenny, who got after me for not blogging. Okay, I got the message there's something always to share with those we love. So find the time and
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Happy Holiday Thoughts
Well the Holidays have come and gone and I have been so busy enjoying the family that I haven't even taken time to post a blog. Therefore, I need to post a least a brief recap of the Holidays.
First, Christmas Day was wonderful. Taylor stayed Christmas Eve and we finally rolled out of the sack and began the Christmas Day. This year was particularly awesome because we were able to spend time with each of our children and their families. We enjoyed the miracle of Webcams talking to Rachel on Christmas morning and seeing Gabe, and John in the background opening presents and playing. Rachel even was sharing her Christmas with Jan a good friend while her husband Jim is serving in Afghanistan.
Jan shared with us a story of what encourages Jim when he becomes discouraged with the war efforts in Afghanistan. Jim carries a picture of our grandson Gabe and looks at the picture and it helps him to understand why he is where he is and what he is fighting for. To all of our military service man thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Now back to Christmas Day, in the afternoon after we had talked with Rachel and opened our Christmas with Taylor, we went to the movie "The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons" and just enjoyed the afternoon together with Taylor.
Later that afternoon and evening, Jenny, Philip, Adyson and Lexi all came by and we had dinner and opened gifts. It was a wonderful Christmas spending time with my children and grandchildren. Couldn't have asked for anything more.
New Years Eve, Cheryl and I went to the movie, "Seven Pounds", an interesting movie and then came home and kinda of twiddled our thumbs waiting for the New Year to come. About 10:00 pm, I was hoping that it was later than I had thought, we heard some banging of pans from the neighbors home. Turned out to be a "practice run" from what we could ascertain. At midnight, Cheryl went out on the porch and banged a pan with the neighbors, a nice kiss to wish each other a Happy New Year and to sleep we went.
Let's not forget our football teams this past year. BYU struggled all year and hoping to prove their worth failed to perform in the .....Bowl. Arizona proved to be to tough for them. However, we won't forget about Utah playing in the Sugar Bowl and beating Alabama ranked #2 at the time. Now Utah is ranked #2 and is undefeated 13-0.
Okay, I'm now caught up for the time being. Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and and Happy New Year.
First, Christmas Day was wonderful. Taylor stayed Christmas Eve and we finally rolled out of the sack and began the Christmas Day. This year was particularly awesome because we were able to spend time with each of our children and their families. We enjoyed the miracle of Webcams talking to Rachel on Christmas morning and seeing Gabe, and John in the background opening presents and playing. Rachel even was sharing her Christmas with Jan a good friend while her husband Jim is serving in Afghanistan.
Jan shared with us a story of what encourages Jim when he becomes discouraged with the war efforts in Afghanistan. Jim carries a picture of our grandson Gabe and looks at the picture and it helps him to understand why he is where he is and what he is fighting for. To all of our military service man thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Now back to Christmas Day, in the afternoon after we had talked with Rachel and opened our Christmas with Taylor, we went to the movie "The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons" and just enjoyed the afternoon together with Taylor.
Later that afternoon and evening, Jenny, Philip, Adyson and Lexi all came by and we had dinner and opened gifts. It was a wonderful Christmas spending time with my children and grandchildren. Couldn't have asked for anything more.
New Years Eve, Cheryl and I went to the movie, "Seven Pounds", an interesting movie and then came home and kinda of twiddled our thumbs waiting for the New Year to come. About 10:00 pm, I was hoping that it was later than I had thought, we heard some banging of pans from the neighbors home. Turned out to be a "practice run" from what we could ascertain. At midnight, Cheryl went out on the porch and banged a pan with the neighbors, a nice kiss to wish each other a Happy New Year and to sleep we went.
Let's not forget our football teams this past year. BYU struggled all year and hoping to prove their worth failed to perform in the .....Bowl. Arizona proved to be to tough for them. However, we won't forget about Utah playing in the Sugar Bowl and beating Alabama ranked #2 at the time. Now Utah is ranked #2 and is undefeated 13-0.
Okay, I'm now caught up for the time being. Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and and Happy New Year.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Tough Times
For several months now we have all watched and wondered what the future will present to us as a nation and as individuals faced with everday challenges. We now have a new president who has yet to prove himself to the nation and the impact for success or failure that he can make. Our financial institutions are failing, governmental agencies are crying for more funds, large businesses are saying we won't survive without govermental assistance and we, the individuals continue to wonder what is in store for us.
This past week has been a stressful week for me personally. Even before the Thanksgiving weekend, I knew that we would have to make changes in personnel at work and had made the necessary preparations to start the "triming back" after the holiday. Monday, needless to say came too quickly. Monday, I laid off two engineers with a reduction in force. Tuesday, one more engineer laid off with a reduction in force. That now accumulates to 4 engineers laid off in the last month. Tough times bring tough and uncomfortable decisions.
Everyday, the media is blasting us with the "bad news", more lay-offs, more business failures, and bigger deficits and downturn in the economy. How can anyone not ignore the obvious? I'm afraid that we are just seeing the start of something more large than we want to all imagine.
Just as we are faced to make the tough decisions with our business, we should all start making tough decisions in our personal lives, too. I hope that each of my family members will evaluate their needs and wants at this point in time and determine what they can do in their own families to prepare for a rough road ahead.
"If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear" Let's all prepare ourselves, make the necessary adjustments and look for opportunities. Even in tough times there will be opportunities presented that will bless our lives and others.
This past week has been a stressful week for me personally. Even before the Thanksgiving weekend, I knew that we would have to make changes in personnel at work and had made the necessary preparations to start the "triming back" after the holiday. Monday, needless to say came too quickly. Monday, I laid off two engineers with a reduction in force. Tuesday, one more engineer laid off with a reduction in force. That now accumulates to 4 engineers laid off in the last month. Tough times bring tough and uncomfortable decisions.
Everyday, the media is blasting us with the "bad news", more lay-offs, more business failures, and bigger deficits and downturn in the economy. How can anyone not ignore the obvious? I'm afraid that we are just seeing the start of something more large than we want to all imagine.
Just as we are faced to make the tough decisions with our business, we should all start making tough decisions in our personal lives, too. I hope that each of my family members will evaluate their needs and wants at this point in time and determine what they can do in their own families to prepare for a rough road ahead.
"If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear" Let's all prepare ourselves, make the necessary adjustments and look for opportunities. Even in tough times there will be opportunities presented that will bless our lives and others.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Food for Thought by Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr at one time said:
In reference to this comment, a recent author said:
What is everyone elses thoughts on this subject?
Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
In reference to this comment, a recent author said:
Loyalty is not a synonym for blind obedience or mindless conformity, and taking a stand does not equate to being a troublemaker. After twenty years of studying successful businesses, we have learned that irreverence in an organization can be healthy. In fact, great leaders not only tolerate it, they need it, they want it, and they should expect it. Groupthink--even among the most cohesive and well intentioned members of a team - has been the source of monumental errors and tragic disasters.
What is everyone elses thoughts on this subject?
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Building a Better Community
The past month, I have completed two major projects that the citizens of the state will benefit with the added infrastructure.
The first project was the Jordanelle Hydro Power Plant at the base of the Jordanelle Dam. The project team, despite the numerous challenges and obstacles encountered stayed on track and completed the project. The 3rd largest hydro power plant in the state required us to install a secant wall in the river, excavate, construct the building and install the Owner furnished Turbines and Generators. This project is being recognized as an alternative means to energy sources much needed in the state.
The second project has been some 25 years in the works and yesterday became a reality. Cheryl and I were able to participate in the opening of the 14 mile stretch of highway known as the Legacy Parkway. We were responsible for the most complex of the three segments. Segment III was only two miles in length and had 8 major strucutres. The stuctures if lined up end to end would span over a mile in length itself. Four of the structures spanned not only spanned I-15 but also spnned the Union Pacific Rail Road Tracks and the new Commuter Rail Line. All of this had to be completed in twenty-two months. Our team came and we conquered! Qouting an article in the Deseret News on September 13th in regards to the naming of the interchange that was our project:
Both project ribbon cutting cermonies provide the opportunity to mingle with the Govenor Huntsman. Here is a picture of him leading the way as we open Legacy.
It has been challenging and amazing to be part of these project in the state and to see all of the publicity centered around the proposals, lawsuits, injunctions, agreements, construction and finally utilization. At the end of the day, I can hold my head high and say that our projects are indeed a betterment to the community that we live in and we were a part of it all.
The first project was the Jordanelle Hydro Power Plant at the base of the Jordanelle Dam. The project team, despite the numerous challenges and obstacles encountered stayed on track and completed the project. The 3rd largest hydro power plant in the state required us to install a secant wall in the river, excavate, construct the building and install the Owner furnished Turbines and Generators. This project is being recognized as an alternative means to energy sources much needed in the state.
The second project has been some 25 years in the works and yesterday became a reality. Cheryl and I were able to participate in the opening of the 14 mile stretch of highway known as the Legacy Parkway. We were responsible for the most complex of the three segments. Segment III was only two miles in length and had 8 major strucutres. The stuctures if lined up end to end would span over a mile in length itself. Four of the structures spanned not only spanned I-15 but also spnned the Union Pacific Rail Road Tracks and the new Commuter Rail Line. All of this had to be completed in twenty-two months. Our team came and we conquered! Qouting an article in the Deseret News on September 13th in regards to the naming of the interchange that was our project: 
Davis now has the Wasatch Weave
By Joseph M. Dougherty
Deseret News
Published: Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008 12:31 a.m. MDT
It's the only officially named interchange in Utah selected through a public vote.
Clampitt and Flynn said they wanted the interchange to reflect more than just Farmington and its environs, such as Lagoon, and both wanted to make the name alliterative
But they both recognized that the interchange, which connects I-15, U.S. 89 and the new 14-mile Legacy Parkway, involves strategic bridge work to function correctly.
"It's a very complicated weave to put this together," said UDOT executive director John Njord before the unveiling. Nevertheless, he'd asked Clyde-Geneva Constructors to "lift heaven and earth" to get the bridge work done in 22 months
Both project ribbon cutting cermonies provide the opportunity to mingle with the Govenor Huntsman. Here is a picture of him leading the way as we open Legacy.It has been challenging and amazing to be part of these project in the state and to see all of the publicity centered around the proposals, lawsuits, injunctions, agreements, construction and finally utilization. At the end of the day, I can hold my head high and say that our projects are indeed a betterment to the community that we live in and we were a part of it all.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
18 Years of Memories
Okay folks this posting is intended to be an interactive posting of sort. Cheryl and I celebrated our 18th anniversary Saturday. We went out to dinner and as usual Cheryl in an attempt to create discussion began one of her lists: "Share with me a good memory you have in the last 18 years" So almost two hours later as we pulled into the drive we were still sharing some of the good times with each other.
So I am going to list some of our memories and as you read them and you think of some of your own, please share them with us in your comments. I think that you will find out as we did that the last 18 years has been worth it all!
So here are the memories in no particular order:
1. First date and meeting Cheryl's folks at the basketball game. Dorothy knew I was going to become their son-in-law.
2. Second date, the next day, driving up the canyon and showing Cheryl the project I was working on at the time.
3. Vacation to England, Wales, and Scotland.
4. Building our dream home.
5. Selecting our first lot in Highland and our realtor couldn't believe that we picked the same lot without conversing with each other.
6. Observing Cheryl's waggle as she addresses the golf ball.
7. Paul McCartney Concert in Tempe: running out of fuel nearly at Mount Carmel and coasting into Kanab
8. Jenny and Rachel's Weddings
9. Family Canada trip: Frost Heave Signs, Jasper Cabins and glaciers.
10. Having all of our children at the temple for Taylor's Endowment.
11. Learning about Horsemanship with Rachel which included: learning to ride a horse, purchasing a horse named Sister Vester, cost of boarding a horse and hauling the horse to shows.
12. Skeleton racing: first experiencing the race ourselves (Jeff, Matthew, and Jim) and then Taylor showing us all how it is done and winning third in the Junior Nationals.
13. We can dance: Jenny's dance lessons, school dance activities and the awesome trip to New York.
14. Beau our faithful friend and family pet: Can you recall when he was small enough to sit on the dashboard of my vehicle when we would go out and check the night shift?
15. Beau is a sled dog: We all enjoyed the times he would pull us on the sled. It was the inability to control where he went with the sled that caught us all off guard.
16. Deep sea fishing in Cabo: We looked forward to the opportunity and were more grateful for when it ended. Something to do with those Frost Heave Signs again.
17. A night at the R&R Motel, let your imaginations run wild with this one Cheryl and I will be happy to share but trust me it's not what you think.
18. Get-aways to Little America and the Grand America
19. Disneyland vacation: a foreshadowing of the "Frost Heave" signs we would experience in Canada and Cabo.
20. The night before my heart surgery and our family council.
21. Our Honda Prelude: our first family car that barely held all five of us.
22. Kidnapped by Cheryl to Nauvoo for my birthday. She was so excited about the trip she let me know a day ahead that I would be kidnapped.
23. Boston trip and the getting to know Issac Davis better.
24. Our Kirtland trip with John, Rachel and Gabe and our acquaintance with the Deschamps.
25. Taylor's mission tour to Vancouver.
26. Birthday celebrations with crazy cakes and crepe paper.
27. Surprise birthday parties for Jeff and Cheryl. Cheryl is still mad about me not taking her to the parade of homes for her 40th surprise party.
28. Births of Adyson, Gabe and Lexi.
29. Papa's sign
30. Sailing in San Diego.
31. Jeeping in Moab. You're just going to have to hold it Rachel.
32. Other trips to Washington D.C., Savannah, Atlanta, & San Antonio.
33. Neighborhood block parties at our home and the Harris home.
34. Serving in the Bishopric, family pulling faces to make me laugh while on the stand, ward parties, and blessings received.
35. Halloween costumes: Mom, don't call the police it's Jeff in that hideous outfit and the old twin folks.
36. Cheryl meets the clan at Kevin's birthday party, yes those our my children with painted faces and screaming like Comanches.
37. Driving to Garrison, how would Cheryl and the kids ever find Garrison without Dad's map?
38. Christmas mornings and surprises that were totally unexpected.
39. Remodeling the basement: remember it always feels better when you swear.
40. Playing this dumb game.
This is only a "few" of our memories and is not intended to be inclusive. Remember to share with us some of your memories we have had as a family over the last 18 years together. We look forward to more great laughs and tears.
So I am going to list some of our memories and as you read them and you think of some of your own, please share them with us in your comments. I think that you will find out as we did that the last 18 years has been worth it all!
So here are the memories in no particular order:
1. First date and meeting Cheryl's folks at the basketball game. Dorothy knew I was going to become their son-in-law.
2. Second date, the next day, driving up the canyon and showing Cheryl the project I was working on at the time.
3. Vacation to England, Wales, and Scotland.
4. Building our dream home.
5. Selecting our first lot in Highland and our realtor couldn't believe that we picked the same lot without conversing with each other.
6. Observing Cheryl's waggle as she addresses the golf ball.
7. Paul McCartney Concert in Tempe: running out of fuel nearly at Mount Carmel and coasting into Kanab
8. Jenny and Rachel's Weddings
9. Family Canada trip: Frost Heave Signs, Jasper Cabins and glaciers.
10. Having all of our children at the temple for Taylor's Endowment.
11. Learning about Horsemanship with Rachel which included: learning to ride a horse, purchasing a horse named Sister Vester, cost of boarding a horse and hauling the horse to shows.
12. Skeleton racing: first experiencing the race ourselves (Jeff, Matthew, and Jim) and then Taylor showing us all how it is done and winning third in the Junior Nationals.
13. We can dance: Jenny's dance lessons, school dance activities and the awesome trip to New York.
14. Beau our faithful friend and family pet: Can you recall when he was small enough to sit on the dashboard of my vehicle when we would go out and check the night shift?
15. Beau is a sled dog: We all enjoyed the times he would pull us on the sled. It was the inability to control where he went with the sled that caught us all off guard.
16. Deep sea fishing in Cabo: We looked forward to the opportunity and were more grateful for when it ended. Something to do with those Frost Heave Signs again.
17. A night at the R&R Motel, let your imaginations run wild with this one Cheryl and I will be happy to share but trust me it's not what you think.
18. Get-aways to Little America and the Grand America
19. Disneyland vacation: a foreshadowing of the "Frost Heave" signs we would experience in Canada and Cabo.
20. The night before my heart surgery and our family council.
21. Our Honda Prelude: our first family car that barely held all five of us.
22. Kidnapped by Cheryl to Nauvoo for my birthday. She was so excited about the trip she let me know a day ahead that I would be kidnapped.
23. Boston trip and the getting to know Issac Davis better.
24. Our Kirtland trip with John, Rachel and Gabe and our acquaintance with the Deschamps.
25. Taylor's mission tour to Vancouver.
26. Birthday celebrations with crazy cakes and crepe paper.
27. Surprise birthday parties for Jeff and Cheryl. Cheryl is still mad about me not taking her to the parade of homes for her 40th surprise party.
28. Births of Adyson, Gabe and Lexi.
29. Papa's sign
30. Sailing in San Diego.
31. Jeeping in Moab. You're just going to have to hold it Rachel.
32. Other trips to Washington D.C., Savannah, Atlanta, & San Antonio.
33. Neighborhood block parties at our home and the Harris home.
34. Serving in the Bishopric, family pulling faces to make me laugh while on the stand, ward parties, and blessings received.
35. Halloween costumes: Mom, don't call the police it's Jeff in that hideous outfit and the old twin folks.
36. Cheryl meets the clan at Kevin's birthday party, yes those our my children with painted faces and screaming like Comanches.
37. Driving to Garrison, how would Cheryl and the kids ever find Garrison without Dad's map?
38. Christmas mornings and surprises that were totally unexpected.
39. Remodeling the basement: remember it always feels better when you swear.
40. Playing this dumb game.
This is only a "few" of our memories and is not intended to be inclusive. Remember to share with us some of your memories we have had as a family over the last 18 years together. We look forward to more great laughs and tears.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Each life that touches ours for Good
It has been said that "life is fragile". Others say "that you just never know what life will bring". I believe it was Forest Gump who says that "life is like a box of chocolate, you never know what's inside". And others just say "that nobody knows when their time is up."
Yesterday, tragic news flashed across the TV screens. A massive earthquake in China, 7,000, no 9,000, no now over 12,000 people killed. As this news was unveiled thoughts of those that we know who are China brought concern. What about Jason, who is with a college group teaching English to the Chinese people? What about Kay Lin an employee, who was able to go on a vacation with family to China? As thoughts and prayers were offered, the communication came from each of them that they were okay. Shaken a bit but all was well.
Again this evening as I watch 3 life flight helicopters fly by my home within a matter of minutes, I ask myself: "Where is my family?" "Is everyone accounted for?"
Grateful again as we take count and learn that all is well.
But what about those that all is not well. Who are they? Do their families know? Why them?
Another news flash today hits Cheryl and I like a brick. News of a missionary killed in Ohio and the shock and horror sets in when we learn that Sister Deschamps was killed this morning in a car accident and Elder Deschamps is in critical condition.
Saturday, in Kirtland, the Deschamps were the missionaries that so gratefully escorted us on the tour of the Kirtland Historical Visitor Center. Only a few days ago, we spent two hours with them and learned from them and enjoyed conversing and getting to know them a bit.
They were so wonderful and we had commented that the Lord doesn't do things by coincidence and we felt that we had received them as guides for a reason. Sister Deschamps was splendid with Gabe and made John and Rachel feel at ease as we toured the grounds. I told Cheryl this evening, as I reflect back to Saturday, that I was impressed with Sister Deschamps and kept admiring her Christ like qualities, which is unusual for me to repetitively continue to admire individuals.
Elder and Sister Deschamps, thank you for sharing with us The Sweetheart Tree and like the tree the love that you shared with us as you served the Lord. We will cherish this memory.
Despite all of the tragedy in the world and our gratitude that our family is well; our hearts are heavy this evening as we mourn a loss of an "elect daughter of God" and the pain and grief that Elder Deschamp and the Deschamp family must feel at this time. We can only say that we will cherish the few short hours that we were able to spend with them.
Love Jeff & Cheryl
Yesterday, tragic news flashed across the TV screens. A massive earthquake in China, 7,000, no 9,000, no now over 12,000 people killed. As this news was unveiled thoughts of those that we know who are China brought concern. What about Jason, who is with a college group teaching English to the Chinese people? What about Kay Lin an employee, who was able to go on a vacation with family to China? As thoughts and prayers were offered, the communication came from each of them that they were okay. Shaken a bit but all was well.
Again this evening as I watch 3 life flight helicopters fly by my home within a matter of minutes, I ask myself: "Where is my family?" "Is everyone accounted for?"
Grateful again as we take count and learn that all is well.
But what about those that all is not well. Who are they? Do their families know? Why them?
Another news flash today hits Cheryl and I like a brick. News of a missionary killed in Ohio and the shock and horror sets in when we learn that Sister Deschamps was killed this morning in a car accident and Elder Deschamps is in critical condition.
Saturday, in Kirtland, the Deschamps were the missionaries that so gratefully escorted us on the tour of the Kirtland Historical Visitor Center. Only a few days ago, we spent two hours with them and learned from them and enjoyed conversing and getting to know them a bit.
They were so wonderful and we had commented that the Lord doesn't do things by coincidence and we felt that we had received them as guides for a reason. Sister Deschamps was splendid with Gabe and made John and Rachel feel at ease as we toured the grounds. I told Cheryl this evening, as I reflect back to Saturday, that I was impressed with Sister Deschamps and kept admiring her Christ like qualities, which is unusual for me to repetitively continue to admire individuals. Elder and Sister Deschamps, thank you for sharing with us The Sweetheart Tree and like the tree the love that you shared with us as you served the Lord. We will cherish this memory.
Despite all of the tragedy in the world and our gratitude that our family is well; our hearts are heavy this evening as we mourn a loss of an "elect daughter of God" and the pain and grief that Elder Deschamp and the Deschamp family must feel at this time. We can only say that we will cherish the few short hours that we were able to spend with them.
Love Jeff & Cheryl
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