The Motley Crew

Another Image Quiz

2012-01-25T09:09:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since we had an image quiz. This one is two fold: what is going on here and where is it? This is in the United States, although I think few of you have been in this area.

Saturday's Funeral

2012-01-24T16:37:00.003-07:00

This is the picture from the funeral of my first cousin, Martha Tanner. She died during the week. She was ninety-five years old. I knew Martha fairly well and had been to her home many times. She lived in Payson. She did a lot of family history, wrote some poetry, and raised six kids. Those kids are all your second cousins.

Martha was an Ashby. My mother and her father (Tom) were siblings. They were the children of Samuel and Emma Ashby.

Her funeral was wonderful, mostly because was she was wonderful. She sang, she wrote, she had a great sense of humor, and her work in family history was very important.

Her husband died at age 95 about five months ago. He and Matha in their younger years ran the furniture store in Payson.

I just wanted you all to know of her, even though you have never even heard of her. You have lots of great cousins. I have only met them in recent years because I lived away most of my life. Most of my first cousins are now dead. I am the second to the youngest of the first cousins.

Dad Clark

2012-01-23T11:37:00.001-07:00

My fabric flowers got a friend today so they aren't so lonely on top of my pantry in the craft room. It might be too much blue and pink for me. But, it works for now. Eli has to get his cavities filled today. Wish him luck. I"m really nervous for him.

Strangest Weather Ever

2012-01-21T15:45:00.005-07:00

We had quite the cloud show display this afternoon. A huge black cloud approached the mountains to the west of Elk Ridge and then began to split apart, ripping up like strands of angel hair as it passed over the town. It was like a cotton fireworks in the sky. Incredible!

We have had the strangest winter weather I've ever seen this year. Little moisture at all for two months. This week we've had rain and the high mountains have finally received a lot of snow. Lucikly for us, the snow did not reach our bench area so driving was not a problem this past week. It has rained for the past two days. Spanish Fork had standing water everywhere as it poured down this morning. I was worried that we would have another basement flood but we did not receive so much rain. We have had sun while the clouds above whipped across and split apart. But a darker cloud has followed and now it's snowing like crazy. I have never seen a week quite like this past one.

On another note, Jim finally got his suit from Jos. A. Banks that he bought as his Christmas/birthday gift. It took them a month to get it but he sure does look nice in a suit that fits! I don't think we would ever by from this company again. We were not impressed with their service.

Look at this handsome dude!!

grocery budgets?

2012-01-19T22:44:00.002-07:00

I wrote a post about my recent grocery store trip and our grocery budget. I am curious what your budgets were when it was just the two of you or what you think about ours. If you are interested, you can check out my bloggity blog.

We recently started an account up with mint.com and we LOVE it. It helps you see more clearly where your money is going in and out of and emails you when you get close to going over budget or whatnot. Its free too, so if you havent tried it out, you should. I could be the only person on the earth who recently heard of it though, so if you already have it and know it, you don't have to tell me how last year that was. ;) haha. I am a little slow sometimes! The thing I am most proud of is that we now have $3000 in our 'savings' account!!!!! We have never had that much in it, and it feels so great to have it in there. We actually call our savings account our emergency fund, because when you have the money you need for emergencies, it turns out that the emergency isn't an emergency anymore because you were prepared. Really we have tried so hard to build that savings, and granted, a LOT of it is from pelgrant money over the last two semesters but at least we have it. We will have to use $500 of it to get our timing belts replaced on our car, and then we are thinking of putting $1000 of it towards my hair school loan that isn't paid off for yet, but then keeping the rest in our savings.

Just had to brag for a second because if most of you know me, I have never been that great at money until I married Kevin. Mostly because I never had time to work when I was going to hair school or in ambassadors. So YAY us.

Even though we have lots in our savings, we are still super poor. barley can pay our rent, and all that crap, but hey, I will always love this time of our life when I look back on it because we struggled together!

A boring post where I brag about my kid and say I hope I can keep them humble

2012-01-18T09:07:00.001-07:00

I just got Will's report card and I didn't want to brag on my own blog--so can I brag on here? I know, it's annoying. It was interesting because I know that Will is pretty smart but I live with him so I just think he's normal and then I got his report card and remembered, Oh yeah, he's kind of smart. Not to put myself down or anything, but I just never had experiences like this growing up. To Mike it's normal--he's report cards were always showing he was advanced (except for the time they told him he was dumb and put him in remedial classes...). Anyway, I was not naturally intelligent and I had to work hard for it and even then, I did not get scores like this. So it's weird to me that my boys are so smart. I'm grateful, it's just weird. I've talked to Mike about it in the past and we were very different students. I worked really hard for my 3.98 GPA and it was not easy. Mike did not work hard at all and didn't do assignments and just passed with flying colors. Now, he's a really hard worker in school but before, he just didn't even try. I personally would love my sons to have my work ethic in high school and Mike's natural ability.

So, to hopefully achieve that goal, we started reading a book called Mindset. It is a good book. Mike finished it but I haven't yet. I basically says that if you praise their natural ability or call them "smart" it actually makes them preform worse. The thought being that they don't want to try harder for fear that they will fail. If you praise their effort, then they will do much better. So, even though I am saying to you all that Will (and Isaac and Eli) are smart, I am not going to be saying that to them. Mike really liked the book and what I've read of the book I like too. It also talks about famous sports guys and how some do so well because their effort was praised not their ability. You should check the book out and tell me what you think.

Anyway, to give you an idea of Will's performance:

He is above grade level in Reading and Math. He's performing at a high proficiency in Spanish and Social Studies and then at grade level for everything else. Though, his writing stinks. He really needs to work harder in that area (his letters and numbers are all backwards and he just schooshes every word together with no spaces. He actually got worse in that area).

For his reading his scores were as follows: (I wrote the benchmark score, or score he needs to be at to be proficient, and then his actual score)

Letter naming fluency/Phonics: 37, 60
Phonemic Awareness: 35, 46
Nonsense word fluency/Phonics: 50, 84
Reading fluency: 40, 84
Retell: 10, 38

Again, Will's scores were the second number compared to the benchmark which is first.

I'm not writing this to be like, "Guys, my kid is so much smarter than every one else's kid" because I know that isn't true--I know how smart all your kids are--but rather to say that it is not a normal thing for me. It just was not one of my gifts to be naturally smart. He's been my son for for almost seven years but still, he will say things to me and I'll look at him and think, "Where the heck did you come from?" I wouldn't say Will is proud but he certainly isn't humble about it. His teacher said to him, "Will, I don't want you to answer. You know all the answers and probably know everything I know." He said, "Well, not everything, but most stuff." So, back to the Mindset book. What ways do you guys keep your kids humble with their school work, sports, musical abilities, or whatever they are talented in?

(Isaac is doing really well in school too but I haven't seen his report card yet so that's why this is about Will. Even though, I should mention that Isaac seems to have more of what I am hoping for all my boys--he is a very, very hard worker. He is much more particular than Will is and I think in the end, that will get him further in life)

Manipulation

2012-01-16T14:24:00.003-07:00

This is an update on the knee situation. Friday morning (5:00 a.m.), I went to a surgical center in Provo to have my knee maniuplated. They put me out with general anesthesia (only a mask and a light bit of it) and gave me a block in my upper thigh. The doctor then bent my knee as far as it is meant to be bent and then manipulated it to break up the scar tissue that had adhered to the incision site and around the knee. The procedure took about 10 minutes. When I woke up the pain was acute in the back of my knee so they blocked the back of my leg. They knew that Percocet didn't fit well with me so they gave me Lortab and let me get fully awake. By 8:00 a.m. we were ready to leave. I had to use crutches and boy was it difficult to stand up. I didn't realize that legs weigh about 600 lbs when they are dead! Jim had to almost drag me out to the car. I could not do one thing for myself. He had to lift the leg, help me get in the car, etc.

We went straight to physical therapy. When I got there I felt quite nauseated but it passed and they were able to work with the knee a little bit and bend it quite a ways. Since I couldn't control the leg that's all we did for the day with physical therapy. After I took my second dose of Lortab, the nausea really set in and I threw up all the rest of the day. So Lortab is out - I won't use that again. Jim got me some anti-nausea medication and that settled things down a lot. I switched to a different drug that doesn't make me sick.

I was completely dependent, again, on Jim. I hate being dependent on someone. He rose to the occasion and took great care of me. Ammon had to go on the trip with us and we had been up since about 3:30 that morning. It was a long day and we were all glad to go to bed. The next day we were all grouchy. I guess we are all getting tired of this situation!

I went to therapy again Saturday morning and they did a lot more work on the knee. They strapped my foot on the bike peddle so I could work on the bike. Ice and further bending completed the stay there. By 7:00 p.m. I was able to get rid of the crutches - it was an "all of a sudden" thing - I just didn't need them. The front of my thigh down to the ankle on the inside of the leg was still numb until this morning but I could control the leg and do a lot of work with the leg.

All Sunday I worked on exercises, stretching, sitting, bending, etc. because I wasn't going to physical therapy and we didn't want to have a set-back. This morning (Monday), I felt so much better. I had a very hard work-out at therapy. He bent the leg way back (which hurt!) and everybody was very happy with the results. I did teach my Sunday School lesson on Sunday and was grateful for the Lord's guidance and help to get there and get through the lesson without difficulty. I will be going back to work tomorrow and I feel like there is definitely a light at the end of the tunnel now.

I'm glad I did the procedure. I'm grateful for all of your prayers and fasting. I'm sure that spiritual strength added to the success of the procedure. I have been constantly aware of the small blessings that just keep coming from the Lord. Some come by way of my private prayers, some have come through the numerous (specific) blessings that Jim has given me and some have come from the family's united efforts on my behalf. All I know is that the Lord has been by my side through this tough journey and I am indebeted to Him even more.

Sunset

2012-01-15T18:24:00.002-07:00

I caught this sunset the other night on my way home from work. It was too beautiful to pass up.

Cleaning up your spiritual corners?

2012-01-13T14:05:00.004-07:00

Just ran across this talk while preparing for my lesson on Sunday. I don't remember hearing or reading this before, but it seems appropriate for the beginning of a new year. You should read this one.

http://lds.org/general-conference/2000/10/discipleship?lang=eng&query=discipleship

Result of Fasting

2012-01-09T20:42:00.003-07:00

I really appreciate everyone that was willing and able to fast for me yesterday. It was a peaceful day full of prayer and reflection about the past seven weeks of recovery. I had asked you to keep me in your prayers so I would receive direction as to what I should do concerning the possiblity of having my knee manipulated to break up the scar tissue or if I should just let nature take it's course. This morning as I went to work, I thought my decision was made to see if I could talk the surgeon into letting me wait a couple of months to see how my knee would do with continued physical therapy. That would also allow me to build up some more time. I felt pretty good about that decision. I checked to see how many hours I had left of sick/vacation time and was surprised to find that I still have 76 hours of vacation time that I have not had to take. That put my mind at ease a little more.

At 2:30 this afternoon, Jim and I went in to see Dr. Wallentine to talk to him about the knee. Unfortunately, he did not want me to wait and felt that I definitely needed to have the procedure done this week. I asked him if we could wait but he said the maximum time for best results is between 6-9 weeks after surgery. I am now in my 8th week of recovery. We talked quite a long time about the cause of the scar tissue build-up, how to avoid it after the manipulation and what the protocol would be concerning work, missed days, drugs and recovery time. It has been decided that I will have it done Friday morning and then go to physical therapy Friday afternoon and every day (except Sunday for the next week). They will be able to give me a shot for numbing in my leg and simply use a mask to put me to sleep rather than to risk intubation. We did not want to do the spinal because I would have to stay in the hospital for a longer period of time. The doctor will bend my knee back as far as it is physically meant to bend and will then work with the knee to break the scar tissue free. It takes about five minutes.

When we got home, I called my boss and talked to him at length. He is very supportive and told me to go ahead and get it done. We chose Friday because Monday is a holiday, giving me four days for recovery. Most people are pretty good after a couple of days.

I have no illusions about the simpleness of this situation. I am sad that I have to do it but am hopeful that it will speed up the recovery and lessen the physical therapy visits in the next month or so. Dr. Wallentine said that no two knees respond the same way and no person responds the same way. There are several contributing factors to the build-up of the scar tissue:
1. Excessive bleeding (which I did have) can be a large contributor.
2. A body simply builds up scar tissue quickly.
3. I lost two days of much manipulation when my leg was numb while in ICU.
4. I have had difficulty with narcotics and found that I was more comfortable using Tylenol than the hard drugs. That may have contributed to my inability to withstand excessive pain during therapy.
5. I'm a boob.

I tend to think reasons #1 and #5 have everything to do with this recovery. Oh well. Don't I have a sign in my house that says, "It is what it is" ? Yeah, I think I do.

I believe that if we find I cannot get to work the following week, I might be allowed to work from home and may be able to get one of the programs set up on our computer so I can do it. I certainly would like to be able to do that because work is pretty messy right now. As it is, it will probably take me a month to dig out of the problems that arose while I was gone. It feels good to be at work. It feels good to have my mind fixed on something else and someone else. I dread going backward. I hope that doesn't happen.

Once again, thank you for your prayers. I felt strength all day yesterday and while I feel sad about this decision, I feel it is right and feel a sense of peace for the overall recovery process.

(Don't ever get your knees replaced, folks. Six months from now I'll see if I still say this.)

Fund Raising

2012-01-08T20:32:00.001-07:00

This is a random church post. Ever since I served in Young Men's, I've struggled with our stake's policy to not do fund raisers. As a leader, I didn't really want to do them because undoubtedly the burden of administering them would have fallen to me. However, after taking all my Scout training (up through Wood Badge) it was clear that we didn't have enough money to really run the Scouting program in our ward as I'd been instructed to do. Due to that, I wanted to do fund raisers.

Our stake's policy to stay away from them was always a bit puzzling to me. I'd attend Roundtable and everybody there did fund raisers; the Scout leaders encouraged doing flags, or popcorn, or something else to raise money. I'd have to sit there and gloss over while they talked finances.

I finally had the opportunity to sit down with the stake president last week and discuss the policy. He first directed us (the bishopric) to these talks from the 1990 General Conference:

Then we talked about Victor Brown's 1975 talk about The Vision of the Aaronic Priesthood, which was a talk Dad incidentally gave to me as soon as I was called as YM president.

The point of these talks was to say that each ward has a budget assigned to them that should be sufficient for the activities and supplies. If not, we ought to simplify. However, even in these talks, they make exceptions for Scouting.

Then we went over the handbook instructions (Handbook 2, 13.6.8). It says we could possibly do a fund raiser to help pay for a week-long camp or supplies, but then severely limits what's allowed. Take a read:

If a fund-raising activity is held, it should provide a meaningful value or service. It should be a positive experience that builds unity.

Contributions to fund-raising activities are voluntary. Priesthood leaders should take special care to ensure that members do not feel obligated to contribute.

Stakes and wards that sponsor fund-raising activities should not advertise or solicit beyond their boundaries. Nor should they sell products or services door to door.

Examples of fund-raising activities that are not approved include:

1.
Activities that would be taxable.
2.
Activities completed with paid labor, either by employees or by contract.
3.
Entertainment for which the stake or ward pays performers for their services, when admission is charged, and when the intent of the activity is to raise funds.
4.
The sale of commercial goods or services, including food storage items.
5.
Games of chance, such as raffles, lotteries, and bingo.

Any exceptions to these instructions must be approved by a member of the Presidency of the Seventy or the Area Presidency.

The Friends of Scouting fund drive in the United States will continue as a separate, voluntary solicitation.

After reading over this, the stake president basically threw his hands up in the air and said, "What can we do as fund raisers that fits within these parameters?"

One of the hardest things for me to reconcile was the very last paragraph of the handbook section referring to Friends of Scouting. Our (as a church and a ward) involvement basically goes against all instructions. I told the stake president I felt a bit like I was in the Garden of Eden: Fund raisers shouldn't go door-to-door, don't solicit funds from your members, don't make them feel obligated to contribute, it should provide a meaningful service, etc. Oh, but go ahead and do Friends of Scouting, which is a door-to-door solicitation of funds that provides absolutely no benefit to the actual wards. And we specifically ask those members who gave last year to give this year -- so we're breaking the "no obligation" rule. It doesn't make any sense.

Back to fund raising: I'm really curious what you guys do in your stakes (now and previously) and how they've justified doing fund raisers.

Hardly Able to Contain

2012-01-02T08:37:00.003-07:00

On April 3, 1963, Patriarch Blaine Hansen laid his hands on me and made this prediction: ". . . he [God] will pour out a blessing upon you that you will hardly be able to contain."

Over the years I have puzzled about this, and I have had many blessings that have been almost overwhelming. But there is one thing that fills the glass of happiness for a parent to the brim. I have decided that whatever else may come, this thing certainly fulfills Brother Hansen's prophesy.

It is my family. First, not many fathers are even able to have eleven children, and raise them to maturity as I have been able to do. Ammon is now sixteen, and before you know it, Kaitlin will be madly in love with someone, and he with her.

But think of this group of kids, and spouses. Temple marriages; faithful covenant makers; lovers of children and spouses and siblings; head on doers, taking challenges by the tail and riding them into the future; humorous and fun loving; knowledgeable; seekers after righteousness: these are just a few of the traits that you have manifest in our family. Wow, it is hard to contain the joy of such a posterity.

Will the next generation be more of the same? Most are young, but some are now getting close to missions, college, and good lives. There is no end to such a family. One grandchild has already obtained the celestial kingdom. She gives us all something to look forward to.

I thank you all for being who you are and sticking with Chris and I. In the pre-existence we told you that we would bring you here; we did. And you apparently told us that you would make good on the chance to be in the family; and you have. Again, it is hard to contain the joy of such a posterity.

Dad Clark

Happy 2012

2011-12-31T22:26:00.002-07:00

Happy New Year to everyone!
Here's wishing for stronger individual gospel commitments, more economic stabilty, better health, new friends, closer family ties, increased job skills, more intense study habits for school, and overall joy in living.
May the year 2012 bring us all joy and peace.

Golf in December

2011-12-30T09:51:00.002-07:00

We are having a crazy winter so far. Last year at this point we'd already had >20 inches of snow in the Salt Lake Valley. So far this year: 5 inches. The month of December was dominated by 3 weeks of a serious inversion. We are having an unseasonably warm day today with temperatures nearing 55 degrees -- on Dec. 30!

Adam and I are going to take advantage of this great weather by hitting a round of golf. I bought a Groupon back in August with the intention of taking Adam golfing for his birthday. Neither his schedule nor mine seemed to jive until fall was in full swing and we never got a chance to redeem the round of golf at Fox Hollow (formerly Tri-Cities in American Fork).

Today is the day! We're heading out this afternoon. We will be battling some wind but beggars can't be choosers, right??

Jake's 6th Bday

2011-12-27T09:24:00.004-07:00

If any of you folks in Utah would like to join us, Jake will be having a little bday get together tonight at Planet Play. It's located right off the freeway (about 120th south) behind Cowabunga Bay. There's a lot of fun things to do: mini bowling, mini golf in the dark, go carts, bumper cars, arcade games, etc. Here's more info about the place:

http://planetplayutah.com/index.php

We'll meet there at 5 pm if you're able to come. Your ticket into the place includes a pizza/salad buffet (not the best food, but do-able) and unlimited games for 2 hrs. Let us know if you'll be able to make it.

Happy Birthday

2011-12-26T12:07:00.000-07:00

Happy b'day daddy-o! Hope today is a great one for you! Love ya!

Mike and his soft elbows

2011-12-24T21:28:00.002-07:00

It has come to my attention that many of you in the family believed this post. I just want to clarify: Mike does not wear lotion and then put socks on this hands, arms, and elbows. It was a joke.

Madness!

2011-12-21T11:39:00.001-07:00

There is something strange happening in Elk Ridge...

Little white specs are falling from the sky, not a lot, but there is still a presence of them. They are slowly but surly covering the ground. The earth is becoming white right before my eyes!

What is this madness?

Snow. I gladly welcome you. :)

Happy Christmas!

Family Christmas Party Final Details

2011-12-19T14:46:00.002-07:00

I don't mean to take away from mom and dad's anniversary post- make sure you wish them well!

Here are all the final details for the family party coming up this week. This is just the easiest way to communicate with all of you!

It's going to be Friday, Dec. 23rd at 5 pm, at Chelsey's house.

We are not doing a dinner- just appetizers. There will be plenty of appetizers I assume but if you are worried about your kids needing dinner, just feed them a little earlier before you come.

Everyone needs to bring an appetizer to share. So far, this is what I know people are bringing:

Adrianne: bacon wrapped smokies
Jen: a pizza roll
Chels: A veggie/fruit tray
Me: A Velveeta dip with chips and some pasta/cheese kabobs

So we just need to know what mom & dad will bring (im sure Katy can make something for them so that they don't have to do it) and if Adam and Amy can bring something.

Chels, would you want to make your yummy holiday drink too? I loved it at Thanksgiving!!!!

Anyone can bring more than one appetizer too if you want.

As for the activities, we really wanted it to be a 'family' party this year, instead of just socializing and doing our own thing. So, we will be doing a family program. Each family needs to come prepared to either play the piano, guitar, sing, or read a poem/story that are all Christmas related. We thought that would be a fun way to get everyone involved.

After the program, we will do a white elephant gift exchange. Every family needs to bring ONE gift that is something they have around their house already. Don't go buy something. We will have a contest to see who comes up with the funniest gift. So not one gift per person, just one gift per FAMILY.

Adrianne said she wanted to do this snowman donut activity, and she said she would take care of that activity. So this will be super fun for the kids!

At the end, we will have dad read Luke 2 while the kids act out the nativity scene. Chels even has costumes for this.

It will be super fun and I am really excited. I am sad that not ALL The family can be there, and we will really miss all of you that can't be there!

If you can comment and let us know that all of this works out for you- that would be great. If you have questions, give me a call. Thanks, love you all!

42 years and still goin' strong.

2011-12-19T06:34:00.001-07:00

Congrats to two very wonderful people who have held on (even if it's been for dear life) strong. You have set a wonderful example to us all. Here's to many more years of happiness. Cheers!
We love you both!

P.S. Kaitlin posted this picture last night on her blog. Go check it out.

The Fabric if the Cosmos

2011-12-18T21:05:00.001-07:00

This is part of my journal entry for yesterday. I think you will find it interesting.
In the afternoon today I started to watch a TV program on BYU TV called NOVA. It was a many segment program narrated by one Brian Green, an author and physicist at Columbia University. It was one of the most fascinating programs I have ever seen. The series was called The Fabric of the Cosmos named after a book by the same name. It covered some of the same things that I have been reading in the book I mentioned a couple of days ago in this journal about quantum reality. The startling thing was that it got to the kernel of some scientific knowledge that fits nicely with the doctrine of the Church. It even spoke of the scientific possibility of passing through so called solid walls like Jesus did when he appeared to the Apostles in ancient times. It talked of an uncertainty that sounds like the universal freedom that the Church teaches. Then there were the strange ideas about the relation of particles over long distances with no known form of communication, yet a definite relation of activity. There was even a segment on physical transportation like the Beam me up, Scotty from Star Trek. The discussion of alternate universes was fascinating: kind of like worlds without end. The concept of eleven dimensions being required for the current string theory also leant credibility to the spirit world being very real and very much a part of every moment’s life on this earth. It was one of the most mesmerizing things I have ever watched. I watched the program for several hours. Chris could not believe that I had wasted so much time. It was not a waste for me.
Dad Clark

Famous Segal

2011-12-16T15:40:00.004-07:00

Last evening while watching the O'Reiley Factor Chris and I were very happy to see our oldest son on national TV. He had been attending the visit of Newt Gingrich at U of Iowa and almost next to one of the Occupy hecklers calling out "Mic check," and other disruptive comments. The security soon came in and took the hecklers out, and the movie showed Jason as big as life standing watching the event. So he is now very famous, at least to us. I think it is the first time one of the family has been on national TV. I am sure glad he was not one of the hecklers!

Dad Clark

Attributes and Characteristics of Mary & Joseph

2011-12-16T10:06:00.003-07:00

I'm giving our xmas lesson in YW on Sunday. Our lesson is about the characteristics/attributes of those involved in the story; begining with Elisabeth and Zacharias. I've done some reading and come across some really interesting talks and articles. The point of the lesson is to help the girls understand the importance of becoming as the Savior. Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, etc. were all undoubtedly prepared to be instruments in God's hand. The YW should be too. We'll also be tying it into a personal progress project the girls have been working on for a few weeks (Divine Nature).

Anyone have any interesting tidbits, thoughts, etc that perhaps I haven't thought of? This was one of the interesting reads I came across this morning:

http://lds.org/ensign/1974/12/mary-and-joseph?lang=eng&query=characteristics+mary+joseph

Question for Family Scholars

2011-12-15T07:55:00.002-07:00

I started reading the Book of Mormon again a few days ago. I have read it each day since Adam went on his mission. I have read it many times now, almost twice a year. This time I bought a notebook to record some questions that I have and have not answered. I thought someone in the family might help me.

Look at the introduction to the 1st chapter of 1st Nephi. The last phrase says ". . . or in other words, I, Nephi, wrote this record." Did Nephi write this introduction? Was this part of the original edition of the Book of Mormon. The introduction is not in the first person like the last phrase. The Book of Mormon in the first part is in the first person because it is the translation of the small plates and not an abridgement. But what of the introduction?

Dad Clark

Late Thanksgiving Post

2011-12-13T21:07:00.001-07:00

I realized I never blogged about Thanksgiving. It doesn't matter, but I had a few pictures I wanted to share. Chelsey and Brent hosted a great feast and we're really grateful we were invited. Some pictures are below.

We spent some time at the Ellett's home and Mike and the boys had a great time chasing the 4-wheeler around.

If everyone would just sit still for a second, they wouldn't be so blurry!

Brent's contribution to the Thanksgiving dinner. Ha ha ha.

There were some great root beer brews; some not so great. Barq's holds its own.

I was trying a technique here of showing motion. I panned my camera with Eli's face in an attempt to keep his face in focus while blurring the background. It worked alright but his face isn't quite as sharp as I'd like.

Did you know Henry could levitate? He's a talented kid.

Ammon and the Sacrament

2011-12-13T16:25:00.002-07:00

On Sunday morning, Ammon blessed the sacrament for the first time. I went to Sacrament meeting so I could hear him say the blessing. He did a perfect job! Breaking the bread is a little difficult for him because he tends to break the pieces too small. We have gone through several pieces of bread while he practices. He and two other priests broke the bread and one other priest stood nearby to hold the mike for Ammon so we could hear him. They got him a large card with the prayers printed because he can't bend his neck to see the prayers on the table. He did a perfect job reading the prayer. It touched a lot of people in the ward as evidenced by their testimonies during the meeting.

It seems surreal that Ammon is 16, holds the office of Priest and is now blessing the sacrament. It's tender to watch the other priests help him be successful in whatever he tries to do. It was also a bit funny to see just his face above the table. I forget how small he is until something like this happens. It was wonderful to see the joy on his face as he participated in this sacred ordinance. There will never be a question in anyone's mind as to whether he is worthy to bless the sacrament.

Richards G. Scott

2011-12-10T21:54:00.002-07:00

We went to the adult session of Stake Conference tonight. Elder Scott came to speak to us. He basically just did a question and answer thing. He asked us a question and then had members in the congregation give answers and then he had us ask question. He then spoke for a few minutes. One of the things he said was very interesting. He said basically, "Men, be kind to your wives because many of you will be surprised when you die to find that your wives are given a choice and many of them will say, 'I spent my life with you and I don't want to spend my eternity with you because of the way I was treated.'" He was really funny too, which was refreshing and surprising. I'm glad I was able to go tonight--we had reserved a babysitter a week and a half ago knowing that they were all going to be used and this morning got a call saying that she was sick. I called every young women I could think of and finally told Mike I was done calling people and if he wanted me to go with him, he would have to find the babysitter. He went upstairs and called a co-worker that is in the other stake. So, I'm glad I got to go and I'm excited for tomorrow.

Christmas

2011-12-07T07:39:00.002-07:00

Hey family,

We are trying to decide when to come out. The boys get out of school on the sixteenth but we probably won't leave until at least the 20th. We would like to go to Temple Square to see the lights and Rachel Allen wants to visit with us. Also, we plan on spending an evening with Adam and Amy. I guess I'm just wondering if anyone has plans they want us to be a part of so we can figure out days and such. Thanks guys.

Adrianne

Also, we invited a family over for our Christ-Centered Christmas dinner and it was an epic fail. They nicely declined our invitation to come. Too bad for them--they would have gotten a nice free dinner and a gift.

mommys battle wounds!

2011-12-05T18:26:00.001-07:00

you all need to step it up and go see mom. ;) shes bored and needs visitors. here is a picture of her battle wound as of today:

her knee is still pretty swollen, but it looks MUCH better than it did.

seriously though, if you can make it down there to see her, I know it would really cheer her up. Go play boggle with her or wrap your presents at her house or something. She just needs some visitors!

I For one am glad she is getting better. I think she is still struggling to find the right mix of pain medication to keep her comfortable and let her have an appetite and sleep, so I know thats been hard. She was walking with a cane today though, and looking GREAT! you go super woman!

hans birthday

2011-12-05T13:12:00.001-07:00

we all missed hans birthday! so happy late bday hans, I know it was Dec. 3rd and I hope it was the best day ever!

unfortunately I was sleeping most of the day (feeling sick) and didn't have a chance to blog a happy birthday, but I didn't forget! what did you guys do for your birthday? how old are you now?

Update

2011-12-03T13:12:00.002-07:00

Hi ya'll! I hope this post finds all of you well and happy, anticipating Christmas which is just around the corner. I have a hard time getting in the Christmas mood every year. I love the music but I get really tired of the radio stations just playing the same ones over and over. Today I finally feel in the mood to listen to Pandora and other music stations to hear the sound of Christmas.
Gillian came over Monday night and set our tree up for us and helped decorate the living room. No other rooms are decorated but I don't care - simple is better for me. I can sit on the sofa now and stare at the lights and tree and I love it. Thanks, kiddo, for your help!
I am making really good progress. I have a couple of good days and then have one or two bad days which I think is mostly related to the narcotics. I am slowly weaning myself off them with lots more time in between doses. Since I am only taking the smallest dose, I don't think it will be too long before Tylenol will be all that is necessary. Of course, I may change that tune when I start going down to the physical therapists next week and they have me on a bike, etc. I might have to dull the pain but not sure. My knee is looking pretty good. The swelling is mostly gone but I'm still very tender under the knee and all the way down the back of my leg due to enormous bruising. The bruising is beginning to diminish. It is getting easier and easier for me to sit on a regular chair and I only use the walker in the mornings when my leg is stiff and has not been used for several hours. For the most part, I use a cane or nothing at all. I'm excited to keep progressing. I'm excited to be able to go downstairs (which will probably not happen for several weeks yet).
I am able to help out around the house more now. I can load and unload the dishwasher, cook some meals that don't take a lot of time while standing, make Ammon's bed, help Ammon shower and I can now cath and clothe Ammon as long as I don't do the lifting. I hope that helps Jim a bit more. All in all, I am happy that we're getting past the toughest part of this recovery process. Whew...

I saw this little YouTube blurb today and it made me happy so I'm sharing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uH8FvERQHtM&sns=fb

Love all of you.
Mom

Happy birthday to Willy

2011-12-02T08:36:00.002-07:00

Today is that fateful day in existence when Gilly Willy decided to expose her self to the outside world. Things have never been the same.

And that is a good thing. She has made so many lives better, and continues to try to help others as much as she can. Chris and I have been especially thankful for her help with Mom during this time of her pain.

She is getting big, however. So in about four months she will be duplicating herself to the world. This is going to be quite an event for us all.

Chris and I wish her the best of everything, and a very Happy Birthday!

Dad Clark

here are some xmas gift ideas.. i need your help!

2011-11-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

family, i need your help!

So my goal this week was to get $500 sales in Mary Kay. I took the week of thanksgiving and the week before off to spend time with family and help out mom when she got surgery, so I need to get going on this goal.

I am not sure if any of you really use Mary Kay, but I actually love the product. Here is my product plug: I was never able to use face wash or anything to wash my face at night growing up. I always would break out or get a really red face. So, I always used vasaline on my eyes to get the makeup off and baby wipes for the face. When I got invited to a Mary Kay party a few months ago, I thought hey, why not. I went and tried on the skin care/wash and my face didn't get red or break out. My skin has been looking really good and feels really soft. So that's my experience, truthfully. That's one of the reasons I got into selling it because It was the only thing that works on me!

So, I got a big inventory and Kevin is kinda freaking out because I am not selling it as fast as I had hoped. Sure I only got it a month ago, but I want to prove to him that I can do this and that I can make a second income selling this.

This is where we come back to my goal. We are financially struggling right now and would love to sell as much of this product as I can and get into this business full force. My goal is $500 this week and if any of you want/need to order anything, PLEASE do so to help us out!

The shipping is free, and I will have it to you before Christmas. This is a great time to get Christmas Gifts too. They sell yummy smelling Mens Cologne too!

Take a look at my website: http://www.marykay.com/gmohlman/default.aspx you can order online at that website using any type of credit card (amex, visa, master, discover) or you can call me on the phone and I can fill out an order form for you. You can also send me a check or pay cash. Either way. This would really help us out and take a lot of pressure off of me to prove to Kevin that we made the right choice doing this and that I can succeed!

I am not going to call you individually to do this, I don't want to pressure you. Just do it if you can and want to, if not, thats ok too. Just thought I would put my plug out there! Thanks again all, love you.

I found this very interesting...

2011-11-30T01:54:00.000-07:00

I couldn't agree more with this woman! What are your thoughts?

Are ’opt-out’ parents and unvaxxed kids a health threat?

The Pains of Hell

2011-11-27T20:46:00.004-07:00

Please see Mom's post from a little earlier today--I'm not trying to step on it...

I'm becoming more and more convinced that the "pains of hell" are guilt and regret felt by people who haven't accepted the atonement and repented of their sins. It seems that every few days I find something else in the Book of Mormon that makes this clear. Today I read,

"...and his soul began to be harrow up under a consciousness of his own guilt; yea, he began to be encircled about by the pains of hell." (Alma 14:6)

What were these pains? His guilt.

I think this understanding makes it clear why those who die "without the law"--those who are unaware that they are breaking commandments, including small children--aren't accountable for them. They don't have any remorse or regret, they feel no guilt for doing things that they never knew were wrong.

Again, this idea helps us understand the necessity of faith in Christ. When we are brought to be judged, we will recall all our guilt: "Wherefore, we shall have a perfect knowledge of all our guilt, and our uncleanness, and our nakedness...". (2 Nephi 9:14) This guilt will make us want to separate ourselves from God: "[Our words, works, and thoughts will condemn us...] and in this awful state we shall not dare to look up to our God; and we would fain be glad if we could command the rocks and the mountains to fall upon us to hide us from his presence.... [We must]... acknowledge to our everlasting shame that all his judgments are just." (Alma 12:14) We're commanded to prepare ourselves for judgement so that,"...[we] may not shrink with awful fear; that [we] may not remember [our] awful guilt in perfectness...". (2 Nephi 9:46) I'm not exactly sure how it will happen, but I'm inclined to think one of two or a combination of both things will happen:

1. As we repent in this life, our guilt is permanently removed. Enos experienced this, "I... knew that God could not lie; therefore, my guilt was swept away. And I said, 'Lord, how is it done?' And he said unto me: Because of thy faith in Christ..." (Enos 6-8) Alma the younger had a similar experience, "...I was racked with eternal torment, for my soul was harrowed up to the greatest degree and racked with all my sins. Yea, I did remember all my sins and iniquities, for which I was tormented with the pains of hell, ... yea ... the very thought of coming into the presence of my God did rack my soul with inexpressible horror. Oh, thought I , that I could be banished and become extinct both soul and body, that I might not be brought to stand in the presence of my God.... As I was thus racked with torment, while I was harrowed up by the memory of my many sins..." He recalled his father's teachings about Jesus Christ, and cried unto him for forgiveness, "...When I thought this, I could remember my pains no more; yeah, I was harrowed up by the memory of my sins no more." (Alma 36:12-19) With faith in Christ, we will not recall our guilt because true repentance will have removed that guilt from our minds.

2. I don't have much scriptural evidence for this one, but I'm inclined to think it's partly true. I believe, even those who have lived very righteously, will still feel guilty for things that they never repented of in this life (weaknesses they never overcame, sins they had forgotten from the past, sins they only then recognize for how bad they were). At that moment, Christ will say, "Father, behold the sufferings and death of him who did no sin...wherefore, Father, spare these my brethren that believe on my name." and "Come unto me, ye blessed of my father." I believe, when we hear those words spoken on our behalf and to us, our guilt will, again, be removed--provided we have faith in Christ.

There are other scriptures that support this view, though I'm not going to take the time to find them all now. If you have this in mind as you read the scriptures, I think you'll find lots of evidence, as I have.

As a closing, unjustified thought: People suffer the pains of hell in the spirit world prior to judgement in addition to (and not only) after the final judgement. The pains of hell, then, must not be physical pain because in the spirit world those experiencing them are disembodied spirits--no physical pain is possible.

Thoughts?

Slow but Sure Recovery

2011-11-27T18:30:00.002-07:00

I can now stand to sit up long enough (and have clear enough focus) to get on the laptop for a while so I thought I'd let you know that I am recovering very slowly but surely. I had hoped that I would be a stellar physical therapy patient and that Von Hill (our therapist) would think I was the best patient he had ever had. I don't think he would ever say that and I have lowered my expectations a bit, but nonetheless, I am making progress. I have a certain routine to my very (!) boring days. I can now shower and dress myself, do my own hair and make-up and get ready for the day. The only thing I can't do for myself yet is to put on a warm fuzzy sock on my left foot. I can get the right foot but not the left one. Once I am dressed (only in pjs still) and when Jim is finished with Ammon, then I lay down on the couch and Jim helps strap my left into a CPM machine which bends my knee and then straightens it out. The goal is for me to reach 120-130 degree bend in the knee. Today I got to 86 degrees. Still a ways to go! I stay in that machine for about an hour and a half and then, when that is done, I put a pad on the knee that has ice water circulating through it and leave that on for about 30-45 minutes. When things are a bit loosened up, I do my physical therapy exercises or with the PT who comes to our house very other day. A home health nurse comes in every other day as well to check on my vital signs and to make sure there are no clots and no pneumonia.

The PT has a goal for me to get rid of the walker by the end of this week. He is teaching me how to slide it in one slow, equal movement rather than a jerky movement where I stop and start while I shift my weight or hobble. I need to put more equal weight on both legs. I'm getting it! I will be so glad to get rid of the walker because it really hurts my shoulders and hands to put extra weight on them. Hopefully by next week I will be going down to Peak Physical Therapy to begin working out there. I know they will work me on a recumbant bike and the pool besides other things.

In between the above things, I basically sit or wander around the house. I am bored out of my mind. I hope to be able to be a little more help in the kitchen as the week goes on. Jim brings me the clean laundry and I fold that and I even ironed Ammon's Sunday shirt this morning. Every little task I can do indicates more and more that I am, indeed, recovering.

I actually get on the machines three times a day to help loosen up that knee. I watch a lot of TV while I'm on those machines. How many times can you watch a cheesy Christmas movie and how many football games can you watch in one week? Good grief!! I've got to come up with some different, more things to do during the day.

Kaitlin has been great help this weekend. She fixed dinner today after church, she helped with Ammon and cleaned my kitchen yesterday. It has been nice to have her here and to give Jim a little break.

Jim has done the laundry, fixed me meals, helped me get into and out of machines and has taken care of Ammon for the past 10 days. It hasn't been easy on his hands or back, but he is doing it without complaint.

I'm really glad that Chelsey had Thanksgiving dinner at her house. I didn't worry about a thing and I was glad that so many of you were able to be together.

Just wanted to let all of you know that I am grateful for all of you..... and I'm really grateful for knees, too. I am going to write an ode to my knees.... maybe I'll share it with you! :)

Home

2011-11-25T22:39:00.002-07:00

Just so you all know, we are home now. We spent Thursday night with gut issues. Myself and Isaac spent a good portion of the night throwing up and Eli and I both had a fever. Eli spent the majority of the night moaning and crying but refused to throw up. We woke up at 8:30 and tried to decide if we should make the drive home or wait until the next day. When the boys woke up they said they felt fine and thanks to Brent and Chelsey, who helped us load our car up and finish cleaning the Ellett's house, we left Salt Lake City at 11. We stopped at Gilly's house to pick up a red doggy (Isaac has to have his red doggy!) and then continued on our trip. Twice one of the boys said they had to go to the bathroom "right now!" so we pulled over and both times they continued to stand on the side of the road saying, "Oh, sorry, I don't have any pee now." Anyway, we made great time until we ran into a snow storm that required us to stop and put chains on the tires (good thing we bought some for the trip just in case....unfortunately, we didn't know how to put them on so we spent a good 30-45 minutes reading the instructions and putting them on). So, a few stomach aches, false peeing alarms, and snow storms later, we are here...and it only took us 11 1/2 hours! That's my report and now I'm going to bed and hoping to wake up with a perfectly healthy tummy...It was great seeing you all and thanks to everyone for hosting us and we hope none of you get our yucky tummy issues.

Thanksgiving Dinner

2011-11-24T22:18:00.002-07:00

I've posted about our Clark/Pugh family Thanksgiving dinner on our blog. I'm simply too tired (and lazy) to post it twice, so you'll have to hop over to my blog to see a few photos. Thanks again to all for your help with dinner. We missed those of you who were unable to be with us, but certainly hope your day turned out well! I'm thankful for all of you and love you dearly.

happy birthday Katydid!

2011-11-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

'I can't believe you are 20... growing up SO fast! haha! Happy Birthday! I love you!!!!!!!!!!!!

Birthday Wishes

2011-11-22T08:32:00.001-07:00

Take one look at this face. Isn't he just the cutest thing in the world? Man I am so lucky to be able to share a birthday week with one of the most adorable boys ever!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUSTIN! I can't believe that he is one already.

Ward Council training

2011-11-21T12:29:00.002-07:00

This last Thursday night, we had a three stake ward and stake council training meeting with our area seventy, Elder Real, and Elder Boland of the 1st quorum of the seventy. Elder Real got the meeting started and then turned the next 75 minutes over to Elder Boland. Elder Boland started by asking organizations to stand. All the Bishops, Primary presidents, RS presidents, EQ president, and so on until he finished up with the HP group leaders. He asked us to look around as organizations stood and then asked a question. "Why are you here?" One brave soul raised his hand and said, "I don't know other than my bishop told me that I needed to be here." This is what I call Adam's answer (not our Adam). It is a good, faithful answer - not the one Elder Boland was looking for however. Elder Boland said that we were there because we understood the doctrine. A rather simplistic yet profound answer. I believe this answer addresses why most wards have so many prospective Elders and attendance issues. It also addresses why people have trouble accepting callings or simply doing what they have been instructed to do by their local and general leaders (why does home teaching hover around 30-50% in most wards?). Elder Boland than proceeded to spend the rest of his talk instructing us as ward councils how to better fulfill our stewardship with regard to the missionary efforts in our wards. It was a very interactive discussion that gently required us to account for our efforts and then ask how we can make changes to better accomplish the goals we have all set.

As intended, I came away from the meeting determined to do more and be more faithful not only as a group leader but as an individual.

We organized a mission plan as a HP group back in Janurary. We have managed to accomplish a couple of the goals we set but have failed miserably on several others. One of the things we are going to be doing in the coming year is keeping our mission plan posted throughout group meeting on Sunday's so that it remains fresh in everyone's mind. We will also make this a priority in PPI's which we will begin holding on a more frequent basis. The handbooks says we are to meet with the members of our group at least once a year. We will at least double that. I am not so interested in browbeating the members of my HP group with the goals we set as I am in teaching correct doctrine so that we all change our own behavior to accomplish our goals.

Iowa City is ripe for the harvest. We just need to make the effort.

Austin's birthday plans

2011-11-21T12:00:00.003-07:00

Hey guys, we were supposed to hold a 1st birthday party for Austin yesterday (Sunday). However, we were in no shape to pull something like that off given sickness, so we've decided to change the "party" to Tuesday, his actual birthday.

This is a no-big-deal sort of thing, so if you're in the Salt Lake Valley Tuesday night at 6pm, come on over to Jen's parent's house. We don't want to force Austin's birthday on the Pugh clan who has already partially arrived, so we'll avoid Chelsey's house for this get together.

No gifts, obviously. He's just gonna be eating cake for the camera. The party will end at 7:30pm so we can get our kids back home and I can attend a church meeting at 8:30pm.

update

2011-11-18T10:56:00.000-07:00

I just talked with both Mom and Dad. Mom is going to stay one more night at the hospital to give dad/the doctors at primary childrens some time to figure out whats going on, but mom is feeling much better today. She got up and had a shower and was in good spirits today. She said the pain isn't as bad right now either. They have her on lots of medicine still but it's helping so thats good!

They admitted Ammon to the hospital last night, and still haven't seen the urologist to figure out what exactly is wrong. All I know is that his room number is 3038 and to call the hospital it's 801-662-1000 if you need to get a hold of dad.

Just talked to Adrianne too, they left at 8 this morning and have about 6 1/2 hours still till they arrive here. They are going through the south- so through grand junction to avoid all the snow storms that were coming this morning and all day.

thats all the updates I know.

Update on Mom, Ammon & Holiday info

2011-11-17T19:15:00.003-07:00

Thanksgiving is coming up really quick! I think I've finally come up with the basic menu and made a few assignments, but I'll email the rest of you coming to see if you can also help with a few of those. It should be a fun holiday with lots of laughter, music, food, games, etc. (in other words...happy noises-- bring earplugs if needed).

On another note, mom asked me to make sure everyone remembered who they have to shop for this year for xmas. I remember buying for Lance and Nancy's family last year, so the list for this year should look like this:

Jason buying for Lindsey and Hans
Adam buying for Lance and Nancy
Chelsey buying for Dave and Tana
Jess buying for Gillian and Kevin
Adrianne buying for Kaitlin
Lindsey buying for Ammon
Lance buying for Jason and Michelle
David buying for Adam and Amy
Gillian buying for Brent and Chelsey
Kaitlin buying for Jess and Jen
Ammon buying for Adrianne and Mike

That looks right. Let me know if I'm off on this. We can all do our own thing for mom and dad or go in on another group gift if anyone is interested. Email me privately if you are.

I spoke to mom tonight and she seems in good spirits overall, though she's had quite a bit more pain today. They already have her walking up stairs! She's bionic woman! Hopefully, she'll be able to go home tomorrow, but that might not happen. Dad is currently on his way to Primary Children's with Ammon. He's had a pretty high fever and Dad can't extract fluid at all from him, so they were told to get him to the e.r. asap. Dad sounds a bit tired, so keep him in your prayers too. I'm sure everyone will be fine, but I'm sure it's a bit stressful for them all right now. Please keep them all in your prayers. You might already have mom's contact info, but if not, her number at the hospital is: 801-465-7000 ask for rm #2008.

Under the Knife

2011-11-15T07:00:00.001-07:00

Good luck in surgery today, Mom! Hope everything goes as planned and that your new knees allow you to leap tall buildings in a single bound.

Cooking Adventures

2011-11-13T14:23:00.001-07:00

My friend Kayla Pickett and I decided last night that we are going to start this cooking/baking blog together. We almost always make something when we are together. Sometimes it turns out fantastic, but there has been one occasion where they have turned out just weird. Here is the site that we will be posting on. We are going to get on it today as we are now five or so recipes behind on what we have made.

An update on almost everyone

2011-11-12T09:29:00.007-07:00

This week I talked to David, Lance, Adam, Jason (via email), Kaitlin, Dad, Mom, and Chelsey. Everybody's got lots of great things going on.

Dave just sent his business partners to do an after party at the CMAs (CMA stands for Country Music Awards for you country neophytes). Apparently they were doing a photo wall at a music label's after party and lots of stars were there. He was pretty excited. He's also excited for the job they're going to do for Wired Magazine in Times Square. Good things happening there.

Lance is curing breast cancer...just as soon as he gets a hair cut. He said he went camping last weekend and I said, "Oh yeah, because it's warm enough for you to still do that." (Remember, it snowed 4-6 inches on us last weekend.) His response: "No, it's finally cold enough for us to go camping."

Adam and Amy are moving to a house just about 7 miles from ours. We will pass their new place on the way to the temple. He's now about a mile or two away from the temple. He also just returned from two days "work" in Mesquite for a hotel resort.

Jason had a mid-life crisis last week apparently. Jared defines a mid-life crisis as "Jason just took us all out to dinner." He's also planning on re-roofing his house next spring. I have intimate knowledge of that job since I just did my own roof. Boy, it looks great!

Kaitlin is busy working, dating, dancing, and probably still eating her dinner at Chili's (she wasn't the fastest eater in the world...kinda like Lauren). They went shoe shopping at DSW Thursday night after coming to dinner with us for Jen's birthday and I hope she found something she likes.

Dad and Mom are both preparing for Mom's knee replacement surgery. She's going to be bionic by next Tuesday night. Good luck to them and here's to hoping Dad's able to figure out how to feed himself when Mom's down. :)

Chelsey is busy planning for a giant Thanksgiving feast at her house. I'm excited to listen to the music jam session with Brent, Brad, Charlie, and Adam. Then I'm sure I'll go outside because I'm not a big crowd kinda guy. Here's to hoping the weather's nice, eh? Maybe with enough men around we could do a flag football game???

Speaking of flag football, our season ended today. We got to the semi-finals but lost today in a hard fought game. It rained all night, so at least all the snow melted from last week, but it was very windy and a bit chilly this morning. I'm glad it's over because my Saturday's are so valuable, but it was a heckuva lot of fun this season. We are having someone come quote us for new windows this afternoon. Not sure we can afford to have them all replaced, especially by someone else. But I at least want to see what we're up against.

Looks like I need to catch up with Adrianne (whom I emailed this week), Lindsey, and Gillian (whom Jen talked to this week).

2011-11-10T08:06:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday, Jen. I hope Jess spoils you rotten and that your children are angels (like normal, right?).

Thanksgiving plans

2011-11-08T06:42:00.002-07:00

We plan on leaving here Friday, the 18th and spending the week there. We will be leaving to come home Friday the 25th so we can have our Saturday to get groceries and wash clothes and be ready to start school that following Monday. We are excited and nervous to come out. We plan on spending time with some friends from Ohio (our best friends from Ohio) on Monday and go to the temple probably Tuesday or Wed. Those are our plans. We are excited to see you.

Christmas Around the World

2011-11-06T16:45:00.001-07:00

Get your Christmas Around the World tickets you guys! I am in it this year and will actually be in this costume along with others... sorry if it is kind of blurry.

You can get your tickets at the Marriott Center, or at http://ev9.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetEventList?groupCode=CAW&linkID=byu&shopperContext=&caller=&appCode=
Please come if you can! It would mean a lot to me. The show is December 2-3.

Winter's on its Way

2011-11-02T20:21:00.002-06:00

Stay warm everybody. Winter's on its way. We received about 3" of snow yesterday and it was bitter cold this morning. More coming this weekend. Our tree that's in the middle of the deck lost all of its green leaves today (in one day as usual). We hadn't lost any leaves from our trees yet so it's going to be messy and difficult to get them raked. Goodbye, lovely autumn! I will miss you!!

Sneak Peak at the finished room!

2011-11-02T16:40:00.002-06:00

Our room is officially finished with the construction phase! There's still plenty to do in terms of decorating it though, so you just get a sneak peak today.

Morning Sunshine

Mid afternoon

Halloween Activities Part 2

2011-10-30T19:08:00.018-06:00

Saturday events actually started when Jess and family came up early so Jess and Adam could disassemble our old swamp cooler and close in the hole. We had noticed some leaking from that area last winter. They took the cooler apart and got it off the roof and then filled in the hole, did tar paper and shingles to finish off the job. We are so grateful to have that job complete and we express our thanks to the guys. Adam for his help and Jess for his expertise and direction.

The photos below are all out of order. We had a contest between adults to see who could eat their donut from a string without using hands. The little kids had their own contest.

I believe this Detroit punkster, Kevin came in second. He's eyeing his competition.

We had a pie eating contest. Brent and Chelsey were way too dainty. (They didn't win.)

Adam won but wasn't nearly as messy as Jess.

Some of the women had half pies - Amy won that competition.

Jess won for the messiest mess on the face of the earth. He doesn't even like pumpkin pie so he was a good sport for trying and not throwing up his peas all over the table.

Like father like daughter! Abby was one messy girl.

Here are all the little kids lined up to start their competition. You can't see Geoff in this picture but he's there. He's so there he won the competition. I think that Ella only got hers licked. I don't think she got any bites until we let them take them off the string.

Jen won the adult competition. She was awesome!!!

Here's the old gang all lined up ready to go.

Jess and Jen came up with a bowling activity. They carved holes in small round pumpkins for the balls.

These toilet paper ghosts were the pins. I believe Abby was the only one to get a strike (more than once). it was a very clever idea. And the pumpkins rolled really well, too.

Gillian was a nurse and Ammon was a member of the Blue Man Group.

And we definitely can't leave out the cute little penguin, Sam.

We had a great time together. I loved all the costumes. We ate chili, soup and salad and then got sick from all the sweets at the end. Thanks to all for participating. I had a great time!

First Ever Clark Halloween Party Part 1

2011-10-30T18:52:00.010-06:00

We had our first official Clark Halloween party last night. Everybody came up and we had a good time together.
The scariest costumes of the night were the ones Jess and Jen wore.

Geoff was one of the Blues Brothers

Jake was a Ninja.

Sarah was Sherlock Holmes. (Love her hat and jacket!)

Kaitlin was a peacock. This isn't a great picture, but she made the skirt and did some fancy hair and make-up. Clever!

Grandpa -- well, he didn't dress up but he did play the part of a witch (or warlock) stirring up some good brew. The kids loved the homemade rootbeer and loved watching the ice and smoke (or whatever you call it).

This is the cutest little dragon I've ever seen. Austin really scooted across the lawn in his glory.

Let's see - Gracie was a cupcake with frog boots (her choice), Ella was a lady bug, Henry was a motorcycle racer, Leah was a fairy full of color and glee, Lauren was Lola from Hannah Montana (looked exactly like her by the way), Austin was a dragon, and Abby was a princess (looked like Tangled but not sure I have the right princess here).

This is part 1. Here comes another bunch.

Gabriel

2011-10-26T10:39:00.000-06:00

Adrianne mentioned that she wanted to hear about the boy I am dating. Well, what do you guys want to know?

His name is Gabriel Lee. Yes the same Lee family that most of you know very well from high school. I have been best friends with Gabe's younger sister Celeste for 16 years. We started dance together with Miss Debbie in Spanish Fork. I never thought that I would be dating her brother and he never thought that he would be dating me. I was always the best friend of his sister so when we started to notice the attraction between us it shocked us. I must say though... when we first held hands, it felt, for lack of a better word, familiar. And not just because I have held hands with someone before. It felt familiar with him. He said it first, and then after thinking about it a bit, one night it just felt right, it felt familiar.

So now what else do you want to know?

Random

2011-10-25T12:14:00.003-06:00

I didn't comment on the last post and meant to. So, I hope your "surprise" dinner was good. We love you Amy!

Besides that, I just have random things to write. Hope you don't get bored.

1. We had a Halloween party here and Isaac and Will have asked to be zombies. Isaac wants to be a heartless zombie and Will wants to be part mummy, part zombie. When I got Isaac ready for the party, I painted his face and in trying to figure out what I should do to make him look zombie-like, the horrible thought that came to my mind was, "What did Laila look like the day she died?" Horrible. Not a thought I would ever imagine having before and something felt very wrong about painting Isaac's face like his sisters. I almost made him be something else. Just as a side note, things have been hard this week for me. I am doing better today. When you guys call and ask how things are doing I generally say, "Fine." That's how things are and I'm not sure how much you really want to hear. So, if you want more than fine, just tell me. Otherwise, that's probably what you will hear.

2. I have parent teacher conferences this week and last week. Isaac is doing great and I think Will is too. They are both being challenged a lot this year. Isaac's teacher said he doesn't ever offer information. She has to pull answers out of him. But, he always knows the answer and always works hard. I told her he's used to a brother that always has the answer and always wants to give it and he would just rather let someone that wants to give the answer do so. I personally don't see any problem with Isaac just doing his own thing.

3. I got a new calling--cub scouts. It's a very specific assignment and I'm kind of confused about what I'm expected to do so hopefully I'll figure it out. I'm happy with the assignment they want me to but it's all the other stuff I'm worried about. They want me to basically put together kits for the den leaders to use each week.

4. Yesterday the high was 79 and tomorrow the high is 29. I'm reminded of Oklahoma. Tomorrow we get snow again--our fourth snow (twice in the mountains and twice on the ground).

5. I realize that painting the bathroom down here yellow was a mistake. It smells and I've scrubbed the toilet and the floor around the toilet. I'm worried it's on the walls and I can't tell. Gross, I know. My boys have to sit when they go or they get in trouble but I think someone is breaking the rules--someone ought to teach them how to aim...I'll stop with the potty talk.

6. Hope you all are happy--Katy, you need to call me and tell me about your man. Or, I guess I could call you....

Happy Birthday Amy!!

2011-10-21T11:00:00.001-06:00

Amy, Happy Bday! I hope you get spoiled and have the best day ever! Love you LOTS!

Photo Winner

2011-10-19T13:26:00.000-06:00

I just got this in my e-mail. Yeah me.

Dear Team Member,

I am pleased to announce that you are one of the winners for the 2012 “Mission, Vision and Values” Calendar photo contest. You have won a $25.00 BYU Bookstore gift card.

Thank you again!

Alisa Johansson
Assistant to Brian Evans
Chief Financial Officer &
Administrative Vice President
Brigham Young University
B-346 ASB, 801-422-3760
alisa_johansson@byu.edu

dreaming of...

2011-10-18T18:48:00.001-06:00

currently i'm sitting in my pajamas, pinning cool pics on pintrest, listening to christmas music, and dreaming of this... :

there is something so inviting about snow on the ground, and a lit up beautiful christmas tree... now if I only had a fireplace.

Yup, gotta love them Hawkeyes

2011-10-17T13:55:00.002-06:00

Our high school music program set up this card stunt in Kinnick Stadium this last weekend. It was pretty cool. Our music program made $5000 with this.

GO HAWKS!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vxYiEUTqK3Y

Construction update

2011-10-17T13:33:00.001-06:00

Check out our blog for an update on the construction at our house.

San Francisco

2011-10-17T11:20:00.002-06:00

I am going to San Fran for work this weekend. Its no Rome but I am pretty stoked! Maybe I will go see AT&T ball park. Either way the client is putting me up in the Fairmont which is enough for it to be an awesome trip. That is all.

Gratitude

2011-10-16T08:49:00.011-06:00

When the snow comes and buries our mailbox and the road and our car, and I sit huddled in front of our drafty living room window looking out in dismay, I will pull up this blog post and remember that I live in one of the most beautiful spots in the world. I started taking photos of the fall colors very early because I thought we were going to hit the peak. Conference weekend when we went up Payson Canyon I thought, surely, there would be no more color. Snow came and things seemed to dull a bit. And then, the explosion really came and it takes my breath away. I have never seen my "backyard" so incredibly vibrant and beautiful. As I walked up on the bench at the top of Elk Ridge yesterday, I gasped when I saw all the little draws full of color. Loafer Canyon is exquisite. I felt a great sense of gratitude to God for giving me such a gift to be able to view His handiwork.

Public restrooms in Germany

2011-10-14T20:59:00.004-06:00

As we drove from Wiesbaden to Traben-Trarbach on the Mosel River, Gabe alerted all of us in the car that he had to go potty. Then he repeated his desire. Then he started crying, indicating he was pretty serious. We either had to stop or he'd make the Durango smell something pretty.

Luckily, Hans found a great spot to pull off providing some privacy away from all the cars making the same drive we were. After stopping, I hopped out with Gabe because I had to get out to let Gabe out anyway. I "helped" him yank his drawers down so he could freely pee. After a few seconds of bladder relief, Gabe said, "I need a toilet!" I had a brief panic moment, realizing what that meant. I looked down and suddenly saw other human waste come out of his body.

I took a step backward, laughing, and said to Hans and Lindsey, still in the car, "This is now your problem!" Hans jumped out and dealt with the mess Gabe was creating on his clothing. Cracks have been blurred out to keep me out of jail.

All of a sudden, Eva says, "Mom, I need to go potty, too!" So Eva jumped out and in an effort to not replicate the fun Gabe created, Lindsey actually held Eva up in the air arranged so everything would fall without making a mess on her clothes. Lindsey laughed and laughed and laughed, all while exclaiming over and over how she couldn't believe what was happening. Mind you, Lindsey had a baby two days prior to this experience and here she was holding this little girl up while she relieved herself.

It wasn't over at this point. Gabe literally messed his pants and therefore had nothing to wear as we walked around the quaint little German towns of Traben and Trarbach. Luckily, Jen and I had our luggage with us so Jen pulled out a shirt and figured out a kilt-like arrangement for Gabe. She had him turn the shirt upside down (neck at the bottom), then step into the arm holes. He pulled that up to his crotch, placed a belt around his waist, and then let the bottom of the shirt (now up around his armpits) hang down with the belt holding it up. It worked perfectly. However, when he lifted the shirt up he shared some cheekage with the rest of the world. Evidence of a working kilt are in this picture on our blog.

Again, cracks have been blurred out for legal reasons.

Anniversary

2011-10-13T11:01:00.000-06:00

Someone I know is celebrating 10 years of wedded bliss today.

Stir Babe

2011-10-11T15:37:00.002-06:00

This last Sunday I ordained the Stir Babe to be a Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood. What a privilege this was. It will be the last time I will ordain one of my boys to be a priest. I think I have done it now six times.

We recently got hold of his scouting leader and expressed our desire to see Ammon work on an alternate set of requirements for his scouting awards. When he gets his Eagle, it will be almost the ultimate thing. I am so proud of all six boys, and the five pretty ladies that they call sisters. What a great bunch I have.

And of course, when asked the question: How did you get to be so wonderful (cute, handsome, smart, neat, industrious, accomplished, spiritual, etc.)? The answer is always: It is because of my mother! How did I get to be so happy? It is because of Chris.

Dad Clark

Uh...

2011-10-08T15:17:00.002-06:00

Welcome to Colorado!

Happy Birthday Ansleigh!

2011-10-08T09:06:00.002-06:00

I believe that Ansleigh turned one year old today! We love you, baby girl, and hope you have a happy, fun day. We hope your parents spoil you rotten on this special day! (Hear that, parents?) If I had a picture to add, I would. Maybe David and Tana will add some as the day goes on.

HaPpY BirThDAy!!!

Yes Folks, We Got Snow

2011-10-06T20:37:00.005-06:00

Yes, folks, we got snow today. Can I cry yet? There was such gloom in the office as we watched the rain come down - and even a few snow flakes in Provo. Luckily the snow was melted on the yard by the time I got home, but the evidence of the snow storm is all over. More is supposed to come in from the north tonight and tomorrow. Hopefully it will warm up over the weekend. I am definitely NOT ready for winter. Our fall has been too spectacular and the summer weather was the best one I can remember in years. Eat your heart out Jess... you missed it.

Happy Birthday

2011-10-05T07:05:00.001-06:00

Ammon, Buon Compleanno! From your brother and sister in law in Rome! -Jess

A Christmas Request

2011-10-04T11:51:00.003-06:00

As all of you know, I am having a full knee replacement surgery on my left knee November 15. Because of that, I have to get my Christmas shopping and projects well on their way or even finished before the surgery. I hope to be back to work by Jan. 2. That is the goal.

So, I have a request for a project I'm doing for the family. I need each family to send me a digital photograph of your children. I don't want the parents in the photo unless you need to be there to hold a baby. It doesn't have to be formal of any sort, but I need all your kids to be together for one picture. I don't want individual kid pictures - they need to be in a group. It can be goofey or fun or serious or beautiful or whatever - just a photo with your kids (kid if only one). Please send this to me by October 15th if possible. I know you all have them because you post them. If the kids don't want to cooperate, tell them that this is for their crippled grandma. Maybe they will let you take one then. If you have one or more photos and can't decide, then send them and I'll decide. What I plan to do is really fun and I'm excited to get it done. If one family doesn't do it, then it won't work well. So PLEASE --- send me a photo. Send it to the family e-mail address at jcc011@msn.com.

Thank you!

a lil update

2011-10-03T11:15:00.001-06:00

I got my AFP test for the baby and it came back completely normal! Such good news. Just wanted you all to know. I feel truly blessed and I am just overwhelmed with happiness for this baby to come! I can't wait to be a mommy.

Also, update on kevs dad, I guess I mis-heard the information I was given. He does have to do radiation. He will have to take a pill form of chemo as well probably for the rest of his life. it wont make him super sick though, the doc said it should only bother him the first minute after he takes it. The tumor is in his face where there are too many nerves to remove it so he will have it for the rest of his life. He starts radiation tomorrow I think. (or maybe next week?) So if you could all keep him in your prayers that would be much appreciated!

kevin got a raise at his work. wahoo! hes working really hard and still loves his job. School is going great for him, and he doesn't seem too burnt out yet.

well, thats it for a little update. hope you are all having a good day!

More Fall Photos

2011-10-02T20:03:00.008-06:00

This weekend we made a trip up Santaquin Canyon and over the top down into Payson Canyon. The news has been featuring this canyon through the week. Luckily, we left pretty early and missed the worst of the traffic. I don't think we've ever seen so much color in this canyon ever. It may be due to the high amount of water we had last winter. I'm not sure, but it is really gorgeous this year. Some of you will recognize some of the spots.

Santaquin Meadows was my favorite spot this year. Notice Mt. Nebo in the background with snow still on it. The weather is forecast for snow this weekend up this high. I'm very glad we made the trip up. I believe Jim took this photo. We both took turns.

I think Jim took this one, too. He seems to like roads and I don't. He captured some nice color.

Photo below is for Jess -- I did it!! Silky water - and I did it all by my lonesome without having to be talked through it. So proud, I'm so proud!

I hope you are all enjoying the beauty of fall. I believe this has been the most spectacular one I've ever seen.

Pictures

2011-10-01T14:43:00.003-06:00

The first pictures you'll see anywhere of baby Cecily! She was 10 lbs. 5 oz. and 23 or 24 inches long. She's officially bigger than me. She and Lindsey are doing great!

New grandbaby has arrived!

2011-10-01T05:46:00.002-06:00

Cecily is here. Lindsey just called and reported that the Eva look-alike arrived and is healthy. Apparently she was over 10 lbs. and Lindsey, despite asking for an epidural, never got one. Congrats to Hans and Lindsey!

Cecily is on her way

2011-09-30T23:43:00.002-06:00

Lindsey woke us up at 7:30am (local time) and said, "Hey, my water just broke, so...".

Hans and I gave her a blessing and they are off! Looks like Jen and I are going to party with these two adorable kids here and take it easy. This is exciting. We are glad we'll get to see Cecily before we leave next Tuesday morning.

What was that you were saying, Mom?

2011-09-30T11:34:00.003-06:00

I seem to remember a conversation with Mom just yesterday about how dead the blog had been lately. Then I looked on here today, and there's 3 or 4 new posts! See, we're just saving it all up for ya, Mom!

Here's my contribution:

We've been busy digging out a few halloween decorations from the boxes still buried in the basement. The kids (and I) were delighted to find the forgotten treasures from last year. I had forgotten about these cute vinyl decorations I'd found at Home Goods (my secret love -- who'm I kidding...it's no secret I LOVE Home Goods). These were on clearance for 4 bucks for the whole bunch last year. Gotta love a good deal!

Don't you love the picture of Christ next to the spiderwebbed chandelier? :)

On a sadder note, poor Chester has been sick. Last night Brent and I noticed his nose looked swollen. After closer examination, we realized his nose was actually bleeding. He wasn't acting like his usual chipper self, and this looks terrible this morning. I called the vet first thing and took him in.

I'm crossing my fingers that the ointment and medications the vet prescribed will work and clear this up. If not, we could be in real trouble. The vet said the symptoms he is displaying also mimic autoimmune diseases, like Lupus. Needless to say, I'm worried. We're supposed to keep a close eye on his wound and make sure it doesn't get worse. If it does, we'll have to take biopsys and hope for the best. Feel free to keep our poor dog in your prayers!

I'll try to get a few more posts done on our blog in the next few days, with some of the recent events we've had going on too.
Enjoy Conference weekend, everybody!

2011-09-29T21:23:00.002-06:00

My dilemma: I have a friend who is going through a terrible tragedy with her daughter. You can read about it here. We decided after Laila died to do a family service project once a month (we try to write down all the service we do throughout the month but want to do at least one family one). Anyway, I thought we should do one as a family for my friend. I thought perhaps a hot chocolate stand or something along those lines and all the proceeds would go towards the expense for the surgery or whatever. But Mike doesn't feel comfortable trying to sell something to earn money. So, any ideas? He thought perhaps we just have the boys do service around the neighborhood and then we pay them from our own pocket for what they do and that money goes to my friend. But I feel like it might mean more if we involve the community in a way that we do service and they have a chance to contribute to that service. Thoughts? Ideas on something we could do that is a nice compromise?

He's 6

2011-09-29T09:39:00.000-06:00

Happy birthday to Henry!!!!!! How is it being 6? Almost ready to date?

And we're (nearly) off

2011-09-28T22:25:00.003-06:00

Jen and I are off to Europe tomorrow (Thursday) morning. We've very excited for this trip. For Jen, it's a bit of a walk down memory lane as she lived in Germany for 14 months as a kid and still remembers much of her time there.

I, on the other hand, have heard of Europe. Apparently it's got a lot of old buildings or something. And a sort of zero population problem (no workforce to support the aging population that does nothing but take holiday).

We fly SLC to Frankfurt and arrive in Germany Friday morning at 9:30am local time. Lindsey or Hans will pick us up unless they're at the hospital having their baby girl. If that happens, they've already arranged to have Renee pick us up. How lucky for us that we've got options in Germany.

We'll spend conference weekend with the Lokodi family and then fly to Rome on Tuesday, Oct. 4. I will spend the next four days trying to stay away at a conference full of geologists from all over the world. I will then attempt to wow them with my geospatial mojo on Friday in my 15 minute talk. Yes, I've given church talks longer than that and now I'm flying all the way to Rome to "work" for 15 minutes. Holy cow, that's lucky. I can see that, so you don't really need to remind me.

Saturday morning (Oct. 8) Jen and I fly to Paris. We'll do all the touristy stuff for two days / two nights and then fly directly home from Paris to SLC on Monday, Oct. 10 (federal holiday). I report back to work on Tuesday, Oct. 11 if I can stay awake. Jen and I celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary on Thursday, Oct. 13. Can I count Europe as my present?

Fall & Mt. Loafer

2011-09-26T21:23:00.005-06:00

Mt. Loafer is a very beautiful mountain year round. We are on the north side and so we see all the trees. It is riotous during the fall with the trees. The red comes first and moves down like a blush on a cheek. The yellow fills in amongst the dark pine. There is every shade of red, peach and yellow imaginable. It is in full bloom right now and it is gorgeous!!

Happy autum, everyone!

bathroom

2011-09-26T20:51:00.003-06:00

I've been painting my guest bathroom. I couldn't get good pictures of the room so the ones I'm posting are blurry and not very good but it will give you an idea of what I'm doing. I'm going to try and tie in the same blue color that are in my curtains in the family room and dining room. I think that will be a good complimentary color. Projects are good for me right now....I'm not sure what I'll do when I run out of projects but we'll figure that out when we get there. I saw a vinyl or stencil for sale on pinterest and thought, "I can save money if I paint it." So, here's my attempt to recreate it. What do you think? The yellow is actually pretty pale.

Flying over trees. Yay.

2011-09-22T22:17:00.003-06:00

I went to Richfield, UT, a week ago to hop on a helicopter. The Fishlake NF was taking flights over a few year-old burn scars to see how their treatments were doing. I was trying out a process for data collection on another project I was working on. I learned: it didn't work!

It was overcast and raining the entire flight so I had to post-process these photos to get anything out of them. I took about 115 photos and during the first 100 (and first hour of the flight), I felt great. Then the nausea hit and I slowed way down. I didn't barf, but I probably could have!

Yeah, burned forest.

Evidence of floods; water came from bottom left, hit the bank on top right and ate a bunch of it away, then flowed to top left. I think. I'm no hydrologist.

Evidence of more floods; pile of logs in this area outside the fire is a result of debris coming off the mountain.

The helicopter I flew in.

Cute Children and All that Jazz

2011-09-22T19:41:00.003-06:00

Now these are serious lashes!

I don't think I have ugly children - so I'm putting this photo on of Kaitlin. This was her costume for World of Dance performance. She rocked!! (Get it -- 70's, rock, polyester/spandex one-piece with flare legs, disco). I don't remember ever seeing anyone wear eyelashes like this when I was growing up in the 60-70's, though. Hmmm....

Sod

2011-09-21T20:55:00.003-06:00

Since Mom wants a post, I thought I'd post the pictures of our awesome new sod. I love it. We can't really play on it for a month. Mike woke up at 6:45 and started prepping the ground. At 9 I came out and began helping him. Just as we laid the first roll of sod the neighbor boys came in the backyard and asked if they could help. I worked until 9 until 12 and then I had to shower because Will and I were off to Denver with a friend. At 12 we had laid almost the entire lawn--I actually laid the majority of this. Mike was still raking the dirt and the boys were bringing the sod from the pallets in the front to the back. We were both really sore the next day. Mike finished the rest after I left at 1--I'm not sure how much longer he worked after I left.

Anyway, we all love it and Diamond acts like it's the best thing in the world. We still have some other landscaping to do back there but it looks so much nicer.

Boring Lives

2011-09-21T16:57:00.001-06:00

You all must have very boring lives and ugly children because nothing is going on here. Where are all of you?!?

A Bug's Life

2011-09-14T19:53:00.012-06:00

This has been a busy week but it's been a fun one for photos -- Bugs and Bees everywhere.

Mike, this goat is just for you -- he's a pack animal and he was one big goat!

We attended the State Fair on Monday night. It always brings back lots of great memories in my mind. I loved going to the fair every year when I was young and spry. Ammon refused to go on the ferris wheel with me. I've convinced him two different years but this year it was a "No thanks."

There is so much color and noise at the fair!

The roses at the Provo Temple were buzzing with bees. I've never seen to many bees in one place at one time.

Two different kinds of bees on these flowers.

While this is not spectacular like Jess' photo of the moon was, it was still a pretty scene early one morning on my way to work.

Funny for the Day!

2011-09-14T08:13:00.001-06:00

I laughed so hard this morning that I had tears coming. Can't think of a better way to start the day than through laughter.
Enjoy.
http://www.eligr.com/2010/08/why-never-to-ask-favors-from-the-graphic-designers/

Mom

2011-09-13T09:09:00.000-06:00

Finally blogged about the trip to Malibu. Just in case you're curious.

a new tradition

2011-09-12T20:26:00.000-06:00

I propose a new tradition. I was on pintrest tonight and found this ADORABLE idea.

A family annual santa breakfast! We can have everyone bring a breakfast dish to share, and maybe mom (or me I guess) can make the homemade donuts we all love and at the breakfast we can shake them in powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.. I love that idea..

The lady who came up with it had this table set up, and yes, those are stacks of yummy donuts!

oh, and don't forget the hot chocolate bar!!! We all love moms home made hot chocolate! How fun would this be?!!

You have to check out the blog that the idea was originally posted on:

http://www.nofussfabulous.com/?p=12000

So, check out that link above, tell me what you think. I am planning on putting this ALL Together. I want to be in charge. BUT, I have to know who would want to come and what weekend in December would work best. I know it's early to be planning these things but December is always booked for everyone it seems like, and I want people to be there. We can do it over Christmas break before xmas if you want..

thoughts???

Shmeat

2011-09-09T07:56:00.000-06:00

Check out this blurb from LinkedIn: ‘Back To The Future Sneakers’ Might Become Reality and The Futuristic Meat Called ‘Shmeat’

The shoes may be great but I think I would definitly become a vegetarian if shmeat takes over.

no excuse now dad!

2011-09-07T13:49:00.000-06:00

dad, you said you didn't have a recipe, so I found one that I know I will like. Now lets get makin it! wahoo!!! this is a copy cat salsa from chilis.

About This Recipe

"You can make this sauce easily at home. From Copykat.com (http://www.copykat.com)"

Ingredients

1 (14 1/2 ounce) cans tomatoes and green chilies
1 (14 1/2 ounce) cans whole canned tomatoes ( plus the juice)
4 teaspoons jalapenos ( canned,diced, not pickled)
1/4 cup yellow onions ( diced)
1/2-3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon sugar

Directions

In food processor place jalapenos and onions.
Process for just a few seconds.
Add both cans of tomatoes, salt, sugar, and cumin.
Process all ingredients until well blended but do not puree.
Place in covered container and chill.
A couple of hours of chilling will help blend and enrich the flavor.
Serve with your favorite thin corn tortilla chips.

Our mini-farm

2011-09-06T20:21:00.006-06:00

I thought I'd show all of you what we have grown this year on our mini-farm. We have very limited space because of all the trees we have in the backyard. So we are using the south side of the house and it is surprising how much we have been able to produce on such a small strip of land.
The picture below, obviously isn't food to eat. It's a blossom off our Rose of Sharon tree. This year it has tons of blossoms and is beginning to really be beautiful. We planted two of them about 4 years ago. They are now beginning to look very nice.

This is the stip of yard we are using. We grew lots of onions which store well throughout the winter. Jim fertilized the rasberries this year and some are taller than I am. They are just beginning to come on so I have lots to pick tomorrow. In front of the raspberries, we put wire fencing for the peas to grow up and we got a lot of peas once the weather was dry enough to plant! We have taken that fencing down now so we can get into the raspberries.

We have carrots coming up - a lot of the seeds didn't germinate so we won't get too many of those. We won't pull the carrots probably until snow comes. We planted 4 green pepper plants and I already have enough frozen chopped and sliced green peppers to last us through much of the winter. Still a few more to go that are coming on.

We have more tomatoes than I know what to do with. Anybody want some? I'll make some fresh salsa this weekend. If I could find a good salsa recipe, I would bottle some but I don't have a good recipe. We'll give lots away. (That's how to make friends.) :) Unless you are a Clark child and don't like tomatoes.

The onions were the first thing we planted this spring. They are huge. Adam dug them up for us and they will lay on the ground while the tops dry up and then we'll store them in the pantry for winter.

If any of you Utah kids want to come pick some raspberries, let me know. We have tons and tons! I will freeze most of what I have this year and maybe make jam at a later date.

We are trying to raise as much food of our own as we can. I like to bottle fruit a lot more than vegetables because I don't like canned/bottled vegetables. I either like them frozen or fresh. Our strawberries were a bust this year - we only got about 6 berries total. We're going to have to address that problem by next spring. This just proves that you can produce a lot in a small space. I'd encourage all of you to grow whatever you can. (And Chelsey or Jen, I'd be happy to help you bottle some fruit if you buy some. It's not hard, just time consuming. With more than one person working on it, it goes quickly.)

Mini Farming and Mike's Craziness

2011-09-04T23:25:00.003-06:00

I posted this on my family's (mostly dormant) blog and asked Adrianne if you all would think I was crazy based on what I wrote. She suggested you would, but also mentioned that you might find the post interesting...

I just finished reading the book Mini Farming, Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre by Brett L. Markham. I've enjoyed the book. It's an introduction to a lot of the things involved in growing your own food. It's pretty light on the details needed to actually do a lot of the stuff he discusses, but I think he's done a sufficient job of helping me know whether or not I'll pursue certain activities, and he's provided a (limited) bibliography at the end of his book for further reading. I've already read one of the books in his bibliography and I own another (it's next on my list after the one I'm reading right now).

For those of you who haven't heard, I've been living my life for the past few years with two fairly opposed views of the future. The first is the one that most of you know--I'll save and invest for retirement so that I will be relatively wealthy by the time I'm done working. Because of that view, I've maximized my Roth IRA contributions every year since I've had a job until this past year when we stopped to save money for the house. The other view is that I don't really believe the country will survive the next twenty years without some major (and likely painful) changes--probably including some sort of restructuring of our economy and government. I've envisioned things ranging from a minor disruption of services to catastrophic upheavals possibly including the entire collapse of the government and society. Something recently brought these two contradictory views of the future into my mind at the same time and I wondered why I was investing so much of my resources into a system that I have little confidence will exist when I need it.

That question worked on me for a while and I decided that I ought to put a portion of that money into something that would actually be valuable to me if the country fell into anarchy. Just to help you think about what that means, imagine that the population ceased conforming to the law (for whatever reason). There would quickly be no food or fuel and money would be worthless and traveling would be dangerous. So, what would be of value at that point?

As I've thought about it, the first and obvious thing is food. I have been feeling for a couple of years now that my family needs to get at least a year's worth of food storage. We've been working on it an we will continue. But, I'm not convinced that everything will be resolved and back to normal within a year. It seemed like the next most important thing to own would be productive land that would enable me to produce my own food. Unfortunately, with my current employment, this is not a realistic option for me. Sure, I could buy some land, but I couldn't improve it and make it productive because I won't be near it for more than 3 years.

My mom and dad suggested that I ought to buy tools that I'd need in the situation I'm envisioning. I think that's a great idea, and I have begun a list of tools that I will acquire over the next while. However, the more I think about it, the more I'm convinced that the first thing I need is the skills that would be required to live on our own.

So, with that in mind, I have purchased a number of books (from which I am generating my list of tools), and I will read them and put into practice what I can of what they describe. This book on mini farming was a good introduction. I also have books on composting, trapping, butchering live stock and game, preserving meats, and a couple other generic books on homesteading/traditional skills. I'm currently reading a book on fruit trees to help me out with the trees I planted.

I hope I'm just being crazy and that this will all be a waste of my time (at least I think it's fun and interesting for now), but it certainly seems like something worth doing to prepare. If nothing else, some of these skills will reduce our expenses. The gardening skills will certainly help with the grocery budget.

Once I get done with these books, I'll look into skills and equipment needed for "going off the grid". While I'm preparing to (temporarily) live a life without electricity, I'd like to be able to provide my own and not depend on a power company. Right now my plan is that when we retire from the air force, I will buy some land and have a passive house built on it. A passive house is one that is very well insulated and energy efficient in general. It requires little to no heating or cooling to stay at reasonable temperatures all year round. I'll install some power producing equipment (wind turbine and solar panels), a well, and a septic tank. I'll have a big garden, some fruit and nut trees, and some animals, and I'll hope I've wasted my time and money doing all of this, but I'll be prepared in case I haven't.

Now, as most of you know, I like to get obsessed with things, so it could just be that I'm suddenly obsessed with this idea. What worries me a little is that other people whom I respect have told me they've been feeling the same things for a while. For example, I mentioned this to my former bishop and he said his brother-in-law, a real-estate agent, has been watching for land for them for the very same reason.

Any way, that's what I've been thinking about recently. I'll report on the other books I read and I'll share my list of tools if any of you are interested, once I get it done...or at least further along.

It's okay if you think I'm nuts.

2011-09-04T12:40:00.002-06:00

I couldn't help but notice that we didn't have a family dinner during the month of August. Why is that? Will we be having one during September? I hope so. I look forward to those.

Colorado Springs

2011-09-02T21:55:00.005-06:00

I had a wonderful trip to Colorado Springs. I'm not sure why I felt so compelled to go but I knew I had to go back even if it was for the selfish reason of spending some one-on-one time with Adrianne and her family. My heart was hurting before I went back. By the time I left, I had received some personal answers to questions I had about myself, my role, and the welfare of this little family. We talked for hours. I have never had this special kind of opportunity to spend so much time alone with one child since Jason turned four and Adam joined the family.

My respect for Mike and Adrianne continues to increase the more time I spend around them. We had some really interesting conversations that were stimulating and thought-provoking. We didn't have answers to a lot we discussed, but just the discussion seemed to help us organize our thoughts and express our feelings about life's events.

And those boys --- well, what can I say?? They are simply adorable. They are high-energy kids. I don't think I've ever seen kids fly off so many items of furniture as these kids do. They climb on everything, they catapult themselves into the air trusting that someone or something will catch them. They love to be tickled and they love to wrestle with anyone that will play with them. Eli is famous for his "What if...." imaginative stories. William and Isaac are now both going to school and seem to like it a lot. Eli loves to spend time with his mom and I think she loves to spend time with him.

Mike invited me to attend one of his classes on Monday morning. How many of you will ever get that chance?? Attend a mechanical engineering class at the Air Force Academy. How cool is that! Of course, I didn't understand how they did the problems, but I did understand what he was trying to teach them to do. He will win those students over before long because he has such an engaging personality.

I attended church and got to hear them speak about discipleship and the plan of salvation. They gave fantastic talks full of the spirit. One woman told me after church, "There wasn't a dry eye in the building." They gave very spiritual talks, well written and well thought out. (Eli fell to sleep between the bread and water during the sacrament and slept through the rest of the meeting so I had no trouble listening to the talks. I didn't drug him, really.)

There is still sadness in all their hearts. Eli told me when I got there the first day, "Grandma, if you get scared or sad, I'll sing you a Laila song." He used to sing to her whenever she fussed. Isaac is afraid to go up to his bedroom alone and they are trying to help him work through that. They openly talk about Laila and I'm very glad they do. The boys talk about the fun things she did and how much they love her. The grief that hits comes like waves of the ocean. For a while they go forward, they can laugh and have moments of joy. And then the wave crashes over them and they seem to deflate like a balloon. However, I think they are doing remarkably well with the trial they have been given. They will always need our prayers.
Mom helping Eli reach the ceiling - what a monkey!

Mike just finishing up his class.

We went to a High Priest Social on Saturday. Adrianne swam with the boys while Mike helped get the BBQ set up. They all had a great time swimming.

The boys playing in the play area at Focus on the Family.

Eli with unbounded energy and excitement.

Adrianne's Craft Room

2011-09-01T18:53:00.004-06:00

I got to help Adrianne organize her craft room. Mind you, the room was not messy when I got there. She had everything in bins but she wanted to re-organize so the mess you see in the third picture is after we dumped out everything and put it all on the floor while we organized. She already had the cute wall hangings (below) on the wall.

She finished the pink ball while I was there. Did you know that I can't cut circles in a consistent size? So that isn't one of my talents. The circles kept getting bigger and bigger. Go figure. ??

She hung all the balls in the corner of the room and they look so cheerful and cute.

Here is the room after we tore it all apart.

Here is the finished cupboard. We put the large bolts of fabric on the shelf in the closet and then went to the store and bought some little organizing containers. We hung (with Mike's help) the shelves on the doors and we got one door hung without Mike's help. He had to do the final door. Doesn't it look great?! Now she has a wonderful room to work on crafts of all kinds. It was a fun little project.

More to come about my trip.

Wildflower Circle

2011-08-30T22:04:00.006-06:00

As most of you know, I'm in California this week. Unlike most my California trips, this one actually made it to the better half of the state (yeah, Northern California!). I flew to Sacramento and visited with a Forest Service colleague who's office is actually at McClellan Air Force Base, which really isn't an Air Force base anymore (1935 - 2001). After looking at a map of where this office was, and then seeing just how close American River College was to that, I realized that Wildflower Circle was awfully close to that.

After my meeting with the colleague, I drove the 10 minutes to our old neighborhood and knocked on Bill and Diane's door. I was lucky to catch both of them home with their dog, Ginger. Both are doing well and as happy as they ever were. Diane suffers from arthritis and some spinal issues and therefore isn't a mobile as she used to be, but they are as peppy as ever. They've expanded their house 12 feet into the backyard and put their kitchen there and Bill's done some awfully impressive work in there. He was preparing to lay new flooring in their front room when I knocked, so I guess he can thank me for the break!

I took one picture of our old house but the sun angle wasn't conducive to much. The old pine tree fell not long after we moved out. The owners have since planted a new tree in the grass. I made sure to include the light pole in the picture because I have many memories...shaking that light pole to the point I swear the top was going to fall off.

It was really nice seeing them again. They both still speak highly of our family and I had to comment, "Do you really remember what it was like?" They did relate that when we first moved in, they saw all these little kids running around and since we looked alike, they figured we were all moving in together. Then they saw us unload the drum set and they looked at each other and said, "Oh no." However, Diane said they never heard it. Does that mean Jason gave up on those drums after moving to California? Fun times; Adam and I ruled the sports world on that circle. Even when it was Will, Sten, and Tim against the two of us, we'd usually win. At everything...football, baseball, and basketball.

By the way, Lindsey, they both said you sing like an angel. As if I didn't already know that.

By the way, pt. 2: I love and miss Jen even though I saw her this morning.

Stiches, Running, and Lonely

2011-08-29T17:15:00.002-06:00

Today I saw my Doctor, Todd Cook. He did my eye lid surgery. I finally got the stitches out! For the first time in ten days there is not something under my eye lid to scratch my eye. It feels great. I can see like a normal person, and do not have medication driping from my eye all over the left side of my face. I am very pleased.

This place on my eye is the area that was cut when Jason and I were involved in the head on collision in California. It has not bothered me until now, and I do not know why it did. But it did. Todd, who does this type of surgery as a speciallty, said that contantly pulling the curled lashes out would only cause my eyelid itself to curl into my eye, thus part of it was actually removed.

Now, you all must know something about Todd. He is forty-three years old going on twenty-five. He is what people who know call a trail runner. Not Iowa or eastern trails, he runs to the top of mountains. This year, including yesterday after church, he has run to the top of Mt. Timpanogos 57 times! He goes up any way he can, including up the face. He has also run almost every major mountian in Utah. In a couple of weeks he will be involved in a hundred mile trail race that goes up to the top of the Ogden mountains and then along the top ridge accross the interstate and then on to conclude the 100 mile race. He is a nut. I love it.

I talked to his nurses, two of which went running with him recently and said he is crazy, and they could not ever keep up with him. They run marithons, and said he will not do that because it is just too boring. Really?

Last of all, I am really lonely. My love is gone and I sleep alone. I talk to myself, and struggle to even do a little more than I normally do. Chrisser is the best wife and the most fantastic mother ever. She will be home late Tuesday night, none too soon for me.

Dad Clark

Made it

2011-08-27T11:27:00.002-06:00

Well guys, you are now reading a post made by the newest member of the 12 couple Back Up International Folk Dance Ensemble! Am I excited? Why yes, yes I am.