Rains Family News

Beautiful Tan and Adorable Linus

2009-12-10T12:07:00.000-08:00

This was just a random shot that Leila took of Tannie and Linus after we were done taking family pictures on Thankgiving day. I absolutly LOVE LOVE this picture of both of them. They both just look so sweet and so adorable. Thank goodness for random pictures.

Mr. Ed does Exist

2009-12-04T11:43:00.000-08:00

Joseph and this horse were carrying on a conversation. I didn't get a good enough picture of this horse talking, but he would life his lip and talk with his teeth and everything. Joseph would then talk back and the horse would nod his head and then would go bad and forth, it was hilarious. There is something about that petting zoo at Thanksgiving Point and their animals. I told this horse to smile for the picture, and look at him, he looked straight and me, and did. They were alot of fun that's for sure.

The Talking Turkey

2009-12-04T11:35:00.000-08:00

Claire is not convinced that this turkey is not going to get her, but Linus is pretty interested. That turkey was pretty interested in us too. Since I knew how to speak it's language, I got it right up to us, but poor Claire. We had to move on pretty quickly.

Tannie vs. the Lama

2009-12-04T11:27:00.000-08:00

Hmmmm, does this Lama bite? The ears are laid back, but it looks nice otherwise. Tannie wins, the lama is nice and it's head is so soft. And she didn't even have any food to give it. We all got to pet it. The Thanksgiving Point petting zoo was great!!

Grandpa Milking while Claire and Sarah Ride

2009-12-04T11:22:00.000-08:00

Grandpa milking the beautifully fake Cow while Sarah and Claire ride it. That is quite the feat, riding while milking. This was at the petting zoo at Thanksgiving Point the Day after Thanksgiving. We all had so much fun. Even Claire who was scared of the peacocks.

2009-12-04T11:15:00.000-08:00

My beautiful Claire and I getting struck by Lighting at the Thanksgiving Point Museum the day after Thanksgiving while I had my beautiful Grandbabie's and of course their amazing parents with us for the weekend. We had so much fun at the Museum and just hanging out. The kids were so good, even though we spent alot of time there doing and looking at so many thing. They are so awesome and well behaved.

Michael hangin' with long time friends

2009-10-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

Michael and Jon Tomkinson

Big Birthdays for Tyler and Ethan

2009-09-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

We have so much fun going to Winger's for family Birthday Parties, when we can, and especially this time when we get a 2-fer. Tyler and Ethan's birthdays are only 5 days apart, which makes it fun. They are such big boys that I could hardly come up for air between them here in this picture. They are so much fun and I love them so much. They make me laugh!

Birthday Boy Ethan Double Scoopin'

2009-09-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

Make sure you use both hands and 2 scoops so that you don't miss a single bite of the 2 1/2 pieces of Asphalt pie that you packed away. Hey it's your Birthday, eat it how you like it.

Birthday Boy Tyler and Milly

2009-09-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Ty, but are you seriously doing that? Of course you are, what was I thinking. You always have to be having fun.

Sari and the Dad

2009-09-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

Again, here is a picture at the "Double Birthday Party." Pictures of Dad's and Daughters is always so sweet. We had lots of fun that night.

Happy Birthday To You

2009-07-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

SO. . . . My Sweet Ty Man's Birthday was on Saturday! When asked what he wanted, he thought, I'm gonna shoot big. He said I want to drive dad's GTX around town, thinking no way, and then said, how about if you ask him mom. So I did. Then early Saturday morning he heard the car start up and thought NO WAY, I just dreamed it snowed. He bounded up the stairs so fast and asked if I thought dad was serious. He was even more flabbergasted when dad told him that he could drive . . ALONE. .. this just didn't happen. I guess you can tell by the huge smile on Ty's face that this is probably the best birthday present he has ever received. I am so glad that they respect what took Joseph over 10 years in blood, sweat and tears to build.

Happy Birthday Dear Tyler

2009-07-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

And of course we love THIS Angle! So of Course Tyler couldn't just ride in the car alot. He had to savor in it with 2 of his best friends. One of which, Hyrum Marchant is leaving on his mission this Wednesday to head to Australia. At the end of the day, after chirping the tires, and romping on the gas, several too many times, thinking they were outside of Joseph's earshot, they came home and Joseph said, "So Hyrum, what do you think about riding in a car that is about twice as old as you are?" Hyrum was quick to say,"I think that was the best day of my life!! Just wait Hyrum, just wait!

Happy Birthday to You!!

2009-07-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

And then their is This Angle. Hold Her Steady. So. . . There is a missionary story that goes with this whole day. Honest! So you know he took a couple of his buddies is in the car with him for part of the day and and they said, "Hey Ty, maybe you will get called in the States and you can take your dad's car and it will attrack alot of interest and that will be the bait, which is alot of the battle right there, then all, when not all, but then for lack of another word all you and your compaion would have to do is teach them the Gospel and let the Spirit do the rest.

My Handsome Russell Son

2009-07-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

This is my cute picture of Russell that I stole from somebody's facebook. I don't have as many pictures of him lately because he had major car problems and wasn't able to make it up to our Rains Reunion. This picture was taken on a day that he was having alot of fun with some of his friends, and I'm glad because he works. . . alot, as do most of my kids, who need a break sometimes. Love ya lots Russ.

Me and My Loves, Claire and Linus

2009-07-20T11:35:00.000-07:00

OK, so we all weren't looking at the camera at the same time in any of the shots (me in this one, my bad), but hey, we at least were all in shot at the same time and that is what matters. I love my little sweeties so much. Have I said that before? Just in case I haven't, I am reiterating. I'm certain they are a handful for their momma, one is so smart and wants to spread her wings and the other also smart and wants to get around however he can and get into things. But Tan, being a great mom knows how to chase them around. It tires me just thinking about it. I guess that is why I don't have anything younger then a 12 year old who wears me out enough. Lots of Love to my Dollies though!

Me and My Linus Hangin' Out

2009-07-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to steal some time with my cute baby before they went back to Logan after their triple vacation. He is so adorable and wanted to crawl around Grandma, and I just wanted to kiss his kissy cheeks. I was sad when the short time came for them to leave, and I always look forward to spending time with them again soon, I love them so much.

Playtime with Linus

2009-07-20T10:42:00.000-07:00

The Many Faces of 2009 Rains' Reunion

2009-07-08T12:43:00.001-07:00

Tyler after his collision with the Tree at the Reunion

2009-07-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

We used Tyler as the test pilot on the Zip Line. Unfortunately he drug his bum on the middle and collided with a tree at the end. Needless to say the tree being a stationary object. . . won. But no worries, he was willing to go on it again once Richard had it fixed. Maddie was sitting on his lap and comforting him while waiting for dinner.

I Don't Want to take a NAP!!

2009-07-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

I'm Camping and I'm Not Tired! I Don't Want to take a NAP! Who could argue with this adorable face? Why is it that when you are young you don't want to quit playing long enough to take a nap and when you grow up you are trying to find a few minutes long enough to sneak in a nap?

I didn't feed Linus a Marshmallow, I Promise!

2009-07-08T11:05:00.000-07:00

Michael and Linus hangin' out, and look at those smiles. Two adorable boys. Michael is a diehard camper and you just can't help but enjoy it when you are around him. He sure loves his niece and nephew and they definitely love him back.

Milly Camping with a Book? Doesn't Get Much Better!!!

2009-07-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

Milly was able to be off work the ENTIRE time we were at our Rains Reunion this year! Yeah!! She is a fabulous camper - Recipe: Just add book, campfire, lots of good food, starbursts, talk and laughter about lots of family memories, and lots of family, specifically a gorgeous little red head niece yelling Miwwy, Miwwy and you have a Happy Camper. We Love our Milly!!

Sarah on Richard's Zip Line

2009-07-06T12:53:00.000-07:00

Every year at our Reunion Richard is kind enough to build something fabulous and scarey with his expertise. This year he built both a swing and a Zip Line. Sarah is coming down off the Zip Line. Unfortunately I didn't get the picture until after the screaming had stopped. I didn't go off of it this year, but apparently the ending is pretty intense, well so was the beginning, and I guess the middle was too. Hats of to Richard, Again!!

Hangin' in the Hammock

2009-07-06T12:26:00.000-07:00

Tan and Linus relaxin' in the Hammock together. They got so relaxed that they both ended up falling asleep. She is at the point now where she will let Linus sleep where ever he will sleep and that happened to be one place where he did. Isn't he gorgeous? His mom is pretty beautiful herself. She had spent the morning being chased by smoke from the fire and got tired of everyone telling her that smoke follows beauty. The reunion weather was perfect. Short sleeves during the day and sweatshirts in the evening.

Ethan Smiling while camping at the Rains Reunion

2009-07-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

WOW! Smiles just don't get much bigger then this. We had such a great time talking around the camp fire and sharing family stories and memories from past trips and reunions. It was a little chilly the first night after it dumped about an inch of rain so the blazin' fire felt really good, but after that the weather warmed up and we didn't see anymore rain so it was really nice.

Maddie taking Claire for a Walk at our Rains Reunion

2009-07-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

The first evening that we were there Claire loved being hooked up to Maddie, although though it was hard to tell which one was being walked and which one was doing the walking. Although, you could tell which one was enjoying it and which one wasn't. But we were all laughing so much at the moment that it really didn't matter. Claire seems to love animals already and they are going to love her back, no matter what. Linus loves them from a distance, but if they get too close then he gets a little scared. I'm sure by next year's Rains Reunion that Claire will be big enough to take Maddie for a walk instead of the other way around. What an absolute cutie she is.

Let's Hear it For The Girls!

2009-06-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

I decided that it was time for some smiley faces in my life right now, so. . . . . I decided to post a picture of my smiley girls. I am proud of my beautiful girls, including my gorgeous little Claire who makes all of us smile and laugh. Not that my boys don't make me smile, and laugh as well because they do, alot, it's just that I don't currently have a picture of all of them together, so I'm working on that. As soon as I do, I will be posting that too. Happy Summer!

Claire Gathering Candy From the Sky

2009-05-26T15:30:00.000-07:00

Fun, Fun, Fun! The Harward Reunion had so much of everthing, including food, adorable children, Birthday Cake for ME, and all of my siblings and grandkids to share it with. It was fabulous! This is a picture of Claire gathering up candy and handing it to her mommy as fast as she could after the pinata was successful smashed and the scene of glorious candy falling from the sky. What more could you ask for?

Grandpa with his sidekick Claire

2009-05-26T15:20:00.000-07:00

Isn't she one of the most beautiful red headed little angels you have ever seen? Claire is here hangin' out with Grandpa and pulling grapes off of the vines so that her mommy can make a scrumptious grape salad to take to the Harward Reunion. I think that she pulled them off as fast as Grandpa did and slipped a few in her mouth as well. With all of the Aunts and Uncles that she has at our house, she is one very loved and adored little girls and rarely has a moment where someone doesn't want to hold her or play with her. We LOVE you Claire.

I'm Bored. .. How Come I Can't Hit The Pinata?

2009-05-26T15:14:00.000-07:00

Linus is such a little sweetie. He was so good all day long. Grandpa absolutely loves this "little man" and will hold him forever and cradle him in his arms where Linus is so content. He loves to pull on my hair while I hold him and I actually love that about him. It shows me that he is comforted. I know that he does that with his mom and that is how I know that he is comforted when he does that with me. He is such a sweetheart and most generally very content. He is so very loved at Grandpa and Grandma's house.

Richard the RockClimber

2009-05-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

Richard came down over the Memorial Holiday and took a couple of the brothers and one sister, Michael and Ethan and Sarah, along with Abby to go climbing. Unfortunately they had to deal with inclement weather which as you can imagine would be hard for anyone to climb with but especially the Lead Climber. He is so generous and patient, but most importantly incredibly talented. I know that I don't have to worry about him or my other kids who are with him because he will not make a bad judgement call but they will always have a great time. They also made it to the Harward Reunion, which we were happy to see them, and I know Richard's little family was really excited to see him.

Grandma and Grandpa with the Little Angels

2009-05-15T10:41:00.001-07:00

These are my beautiful babies. Claire is almost 3 years old. She has the most beautiful red hair that people often stop and look twice. Linus is almost 7 months old and even though he was born with dark hair, it looks like he's going to be a blonde haired, blue-eyed boy. I love them so much and they bring me so much happiness when I am with them. Everyone thinks they have the best grandbabies, but I am SURE I do.

Happy 29th Birthday Again Daddy-O

2009-04-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

For Joseph's Real Birthday we gathered up our troops and went to Winger's. That was where Joseph wanted to go because he loves there asphalt pie,I think and the boys wanted to go because of their all you can eat special going on right now. Ethan and Ty got into a competition until they almost got sick and who do you think backed out first.. . . .. . if you said Tyler then you were right. You may notice in the picture that Ethan has almost a sick look on his face. That's because he should have stopped eating before he did. But we had such a fun time together. Michael couldn't go with us because he is on a hockey team and they had a practice that night that he couldn't miss. So he just gave Joseph a gift before we left, that was very kind. Restaurants always Love us.

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

2009-04-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

These two lovely Rains Girls love each other so much that their play bantering back and forth will often appear to others to be not so nice, and also more then play, when in truth that is just how they love to laugh and play. I'm so glad to have kids who are still willing to be kids at heart. I know that Joseph and I are, and will always be. One thing I remember about mydad was that he was a kid to well over 40 kids and Grandkids who loved him for and will attest to that. Keep it up girls, and to the rest of my kids. I love you forever and always.

Rains 2009 Family Pictures - What A Riot

2009-04-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, literally, our family pictures always seem to turn out to be such a riot. Actually we have alot of fun. We always take very nice pictures, but have to end up with some fun pictures, because we are all very strange in our own way. But of course the babies haven't caught on yet and they are just absolutely adorable. Claire is 2 1/2 years old now and Linus is 6 months (just shy). Claire looked so beautiful with her gorgeous ringlets in her many shades of red hair. They were both such good sports for the entire time of our picture taking poses inside and out. Everyone was getting tired and hungry, which is what was partially showing in this picture which was one of the last pictures. I love my beautiful family and will be putting on some of the beautiful pictures and soon as I pick through about 130 shots that Leilani took. She is an amazing photographer and my family loves her to death and appreciates her more then words can say. She has become just one of the bunch.

Claire's Hair Cut After Shot

2009-04-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

I couldn't get Claire to look at me to take a picture of her "After" shot. But her hair looked so cute after her hair cut. She just has gorgeous hair no matter what. It is such gorgeous colors of about 3 different colors of red weaving through it, I think people probably just want to touch or at least comment on how pretty her hair is when they see it. But she's just our "pretty girl" for now. We Love You Claire. Thanks for being such a good girl!

Claire's 2nd Hair Cut Before Shot

2009-04-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

This is a before shot of Claire getting her 2nd Hair Cut at age 2 1/2. I gave her her first hair at 2 years old and it has grown and thickened up so much. I absolutely love cutting her hair, but it is starting to depress me because I think she now has more hair then me. She is such a dolly, and I I love her so very much. She is such a good girl. She is so loving and respectful to everyone. It was so much fun to have them over the weekend. At the age of 2 she already knows all of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles by sight and can pronounce their names. She is so smart. It's obvious that her mommy and daddy have been teaching her.

Am I Your Favorite??

2009-03-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Uncle Michael and Claire, what a pair. they are. These two light up when they see each other and laugh most of the time they are together. They absolutely love each other. Claire loves all of her Aunts and Uncles and they in return, but Michael insists that he is the favorite and from the looks of this picture, it would appear that he is leading the race, with a margin of error maybe(he insists). Heavenly Father works in wonderful ways. This beautiful little red head niece, who has claimed his heart, has helped to heal Michael's wounded heart that was left that way from his little Rowan that was called home way too early. We love them all, for obvious reasons.

Our Smilin Linus, What a Cutie!!

2009-03-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

I was looking back on Tannie's Blog and couldn't pass up on this adorable picture of Linus with this beautiful laugh/smile. He is just such a cutie and so full of fun. When he laughs his entire face lights up. We just love he and Claire so much. Hopefully it's OK that I stole this picture, but I thought it was worth another look/see on someone elses blog for more people to see. Grandma loves you sweetheart.

10 THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT MY HUBBY

2009-03-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

1. He brings me breakfast in bed (cereal) every morning (weekdays). . . I think it's to wake me up and get me going though, but it's still very sweet.

2. He cooks Sunday Dinner EVERY week And cleans the kitchen afterward. His dinners are great. We had grilled BBQ Pork Chops yesterday and we had a turkey dinner last Sunday. I very rarely have to help him, and I feel guilty, but he always says that he has it under control. He Always makes JELLO and Kool-Aid and Green Salad to go with the meal. It's fabulous.

3. Through the years even when we have had rowdy kids he has never put a child in between us in Sacrament Meeting. He appreciates being able to sit together in church every week and so we have for 20 years with no exception. Even when one of our kids has tried to sit between us he just says NO and puts them next to him or next to me. It took me a while to catch on, but since I did I have always appreciated that.

4. We talk to each other several times during the day, and he tells me that he loves me every time we end our conversation, without fail. I know that he loves me, but sometimes it is so wonderful to have it reinforced.

5. He can fix ANYTHING. Those of you who know him, know this. He invents things that are incredible. His mind just works differently. We save so much money because we rarely have to pay for more than part for appliances or vehicles or things around the house because he can fix them, or invent better ways to make them better than they were before. He is amazing!! He could be a millionnaire if just one of his invention ideas was sold to the right person and then took off. Maybe someday.

6. He absolutley ADORES his grandkids. That is probably no secret, but if he could, that would be his full-time job. He would just have Claire in a little red wagon and/or perched up on a stool or walking around holding her hand and Linus in a front pack so that he could be in the shop or house or wherever inventing things or working on projects and talking to them or singing to them and he would love this incredible experience that he just doesn't get. But when he does get to see them, he eats them up.

7. Since these are not in order of importance I must say, and reiterate, He LOVES the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He is currently teaching in Elders Chorum, a calling that he wouldn't have wanted because he gets extremely nervous teaching men whom he feels are more knowledgable then himself. I think that this has to do with the fact that he converted to the church when he was already 30, and most of these men were raised in the church. But I know that he does an amazing job and his knowledge of the Gospel is at least equal to those he is teaching and when you add to that, that he has been set apart to be their instructor and how much he prepares for these lessons and that they love him as an instructor, he is fabulous.

8. He loves and worries about his kids. He does much for them in his quiet way. It seems that with so many kids there is a never ending list of items that need to be fixed from cars to 4 wheelers and motorcycles, back to cars. Often times these things unappreciated not knowing just how much time, money and effort was required to fix their project. On top of that he ends up cleaning up the house frequently. But, things are about to change. We are initiated an "If you want your back scrated then you better be prepared to scratch mine." Basically everyone gets their turn on helping out inside for their week and in turn he will help them out with their projects outside.

9. Joseph is a wicked, wicked Chess player. He plays online opponents everyday while he eats his lunch. When I ask him how he is doing, he says that you win some and you lose some, but I know that he wins the great majority of the games that he plays because every once in a great while he will say, "whoa, that was a hard opponent."

10. Last but not least, he is the most compassionate person that I know. Because of my illness, there are some days that he has to get me up in the morning, get me through the day and put me to bed at night. He never complains or acts like it's a burden on him. On the contrary. He just feels bad that I have to endure what I endure with my illness'. Don't get me wrong, we have great days too, which get us through the hard ones and which remind us how much fun we can still have together. I love him without fail. He is the Love of my Life, and I appreciate him and everything that he does for me and our family.

Michael's Piggy Bank

2009-03-05T12:13:00.000-08:00

Michael's financial genius started at a very young age. He knew every trick in the book.

Rough and Tumble Girls

2009-02-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

Sarah and Milly love to rough house and wrestle with eachother. No Holds Barred! They laugh so hard their faces turn purple. Its a good thing I have great health insurance, but I love them both to death and wouldn't have it any other way. They are the best of friends.

Me and Mimi the Cooking Queens

2009-02-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful to Mimi for helping me out with cooking freezer meals. She is absolutely amazing! We are having so much fun together. I just love her so much! And love the fact that she hasn't gotten sick of me... yet!

Christmas Jammies--- Two for the price of One!

2009-02-01T15:45:00.000-08:00

Santa Update: Tyler only needs jammies made for one, not two. But this arrangement worked out well for Sari and I. We had a nice laugh when both of us climbed in. This is a new twist on conjoined twins!

Teacher Prep Day / Student Day Off

2009-01-22T11:57:00.000-08:00

Meant Sarah Brought the PARTY to me and Leila

We had way too much fun when Sarah was here Tuesday as you can see. We even got Joseph involved--against his better judgement. Sadly, we had to take Leila off payroll, cuz Leila's gone WILD!

Leilani . . . What a Beautiful Person. . .Inside and Out !!

2009-01-09T14:52:00.000-08:00

Leilani is the most precious friend that I could ever ask for. I don' t know what I would ever do without her, and I don't know what I did to deserve her, but I feel very blessed to have her as such a big part of my life. As you can see from this picture she just glows and radiates which draws people to her beauty and warmth. I could never repay her for all of her kind acts, all of her concern and prayers on my behalf. She has literally become a part of my family. My children LOVE her, but don't get to see her enough. She is also loved by my sister's and their families as well as my mom. Thank you so much Leila for everything that you do for me, for everything you have taught me and for just being there for me. Like I said above I don't know what I would do without you. I love you dearly.

Rain's Holiday Season '08

2009-01-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

PSI Christmas '08

2008-12-18T13:33:00.001-08:00

These are pictures of my work family. We had our Annual Office Christmas party this year catered by Red Lobster and exchanged gifts. These are some pictures of us at our party. They are some of my favorite people. Merry Christmas to them and to all of my family out there that I love so much!!

2008-11-18T11:11:00.000-08:00

Tis, the season to think more and more about one of my best friends, which was my dad who passed away during these holiday seasons. I'm certain that many miss him as much and some like my mom extremely more then me, but since he is on my mind so much more and more each day I thought that I would put a blog about him that I could look at and read, and maybe that would help me feel some comfort. There are few people who live up to the legacy of who this was was. He was beyond amazing and there for so many people. for me personally, he was there for me when I was diagnosed with my Lupus and comforted me on so many days that followed. He cried many tears with me, as did my mom on the days that followed, but at the same encouraged me to be strong for those around me who needed me. I know that my brothers spent so much more time with him snowmobiling, but I always knew that he was there for me, and I spoke to him several times per week. He was such a wonderful example of a father and a husband. He treated my mom so sweetly and she in turn just as sweetly and respectfuly. They had a wonderful relationship.

In my mind sixty-nine years old is too early for us to lose this wonderful man, even though we know he is in a better place. But I know he is doing a far better work up there then he could be doing here. I guess that I just wanted to put down that I miss him and think about him everyday and love him beyond measure. And that is what I would tell him if I could.

2008-11-07T12:02:00.000-08:00

Tyler is being made an Elder this Sunday is Stake Conference. He has been working so hard towards this and is so excited. He has been attending a Book of Mormon Institute Class and a Missionary Institute Class at SLCC and thoroughly enjoying them. I think that he has more side notes in his scriptures then scriptures. A couple of weekends ago he attended what our Stake puts on, which is called a PMA or Priest Missionary Duty. It was fabulous. They invite all the priests from all of the wards in the Stake meet with with all of us parents, the Stake Presidency, Bishoprics, and many other people. So, we went and bought Ty a suit for his mission ahead. The Stake President called them up one by one and gave them their Missionary badge and then they assigned them their missionary companion. When the Stake President called Tyler's name he said, "Wow Elder Rains, Looking Good!" And he did look good in his new fitted missionary suit. (he better anyway it wasn't cheap) We then went into an assigned room where they gave them each of them special blessing with the strength and intuition to be able to find those who might need be looking for them these special weekend, among other special blessings. Then they were assigned a host family to live with for the weekend who would help and guide and provide them for their needs, and then assigned them a Zone Leader. It was amazing. They also were asked to fast after a meal together on Saturday night until they broke the fast together on Sunday night, which is when we all met to pick them up. When we did it was so cute because Ty saw me and ran toward me through the crowd and picked me up and twirled me around (he's 6'3) and said there's my mommy. Two of the other mom's said why don't you do that with me, to their sons, who just shook their heads. Anyway we had a testimony meeting that was incredible. Many tears were shed about the lives they touched the experiences they had and about the people who were waiting for them to come. In the end Tyler and his companion taught 26 discussions of their testimonies of the Book of Mormon and how it has changed their lives and how Joseph Smith is a true prophet of God, as is Thomas S. Monson today, among other true teaching of our church. Ty came home with a strong testimony, then the one that left, and that was only a weekend of doing nothing but serving our Heavenly Father. We're excited to see what two years of service will do.

Flashback: Sarah's Halloween Crime Spree

2008-10-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

ONE: She obtains the murder weapon; while carving pumpkins, she pockets the carving knife.

TWO: She buries the victim along with the murder weapon in a pile of leaves.

THREE: She dresses up in her Halloween costume hoping to flea the crime scene along with all of the other trick-or-treaters.

FOUR: Cleopatra sees through her disguise and captures her in the end and shows her the error of her ways.

2008-10-22T09:23:00.000-07:00

What a darling Datwyler family with their new addition Linus! He is SOO Beautiful!! And as you can tell, Claire is pretty excited about the Idea as well. Tannie and Richard are such awesome parents. While I was up there for a week, they never skipped a beat of going to the hospital every three hours to go over and feed and take care of their precious little one. Although I didn't get to spend the time with Linus that I wanted to since he didn't get to come home until the day before I left, it gave Claire and I a great opportunity to have tons of fun playing togeher and having lots of fun together. I love her to pieces, and I can't wait to get to know our new little man. Linus.

Linus R. Datwyler entered this world us prematurely October 10/10/08

2008-10-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

IT JUST DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THEN THIS!!! ASK GRANDPA, SHOWN ABOVE!!!!

My turn. finally after being up there for a week, I finally got to see and hold Baby Linus for a few hours before I have to go home and it was all worth it. He is the more beautiful baby. He is seriously gorgeous. He also has Aunt Sarah was wrapped around his finger the first 1 1/2 seconds that she saw and held him. It's absolutely hard not to be. He is absolutley so beautiful! Tannie and Richard have been such awesome parents. Claire and I have watched them run around like crazy hile Linus was in he hospital. They have been so devoted and I am indeed in awe of them, and Claire and I have become such best buds hanging out doing all kinds of things. I can't wait to play with her again soon.

Me and My Baby Girl Claire

2008-10-20T14:30:00.000-07:00

Ooooh!! Scarey toenails! Claire and I decided to paint our toenails twinner orange and then purple and then orange and then purple, you get the drift. We had lot of fun doing it. Just one of the many things we did during our week of fun filled activities.

Claire loved putting on my make-up while I was up spending the week with her after Linus was born. I think that we had far more fun then a Grandma and Granddaughter should be allowed to have to. I did her frenchbraids in her hair and she did our make-up. Quite the trade-off don't you think? I just love her and miss her this week so much. I hope that she misses me this week too, since we spent every waking moment together. She's my girl!

My Halloween Craft Project with Claire October 5th

2008-10-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

Tannie, Richard and Claire came down for My nephew Janson's wedding reception over the weekend and stayed for conference. While they were here I absolutely loved my time with my beautiful angel Granddaughter Claire. This is one of the craft projects that we worked on while she was here. She is my sugar and spice and everything WONDERFUL and I love her to pieces.

Sarah's Bath Adventure

2008-09-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday night Sarah took a bath in my jetted tub. She is a little scared of my jets thinking that they might suck her in, but we convinced her that though she was thin, she wasn't quite THAT skinny-- she'd be fine, just turn them on. Well after a little while, she yelled "Mom! Come here, it's eating me!!!" I laughed and told her it wasn't. "Not the tub, the BUBBLES!" When I went in, she was trying to poke her little nose above all the growing, overflowing bubbles. We had to scramble to shut off the jets. This picture was taken AFTER the jets were off and the bubbles settled a little. Next time Sari, "One capfull fills a tub full!" HAHA

Claire's 1st Haircut

2008-09-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to do Claire's First Haircut after her Birthday Party. She was so good the whole time and never impatient. Claire's Grandpa and Grandma Datwyler stayed and watched as well and that was fun, so it was definitely Claire's special day.

I just did a trim but it made such a big difference and thickened it up. She's adorable and I love her to pieces!

Me & My Grandbaby Girl

2008-09-29T10:58:00.000-07:00

It just doesn't get any better than this. I'm holding an angel in my arms, and loving every minute of it. I guess you can tell by the big smile. This was at Claire's 2 yr old Birthday Party and it was lots of fun. She is so beautiful, just like her mama. I love you, Claire.

Janeene's Shower

2008-09-29T10:51:00.001-07:00

Janeene pregnant- isn't she cute? And of course the always beautiful Stephanie. They are "my hood". Every Monday we laugh so hard and tell the best stories and eat the best food. I am excited for Janeene who is due any day with a beautiful red-haired little girl of which I'm told I will be "Auntie LoRene" to. The shower was tons of fun.

SLACKER

2008-09-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

I am the "Worlds Biggest Slacker" right now on my Blog. I am so far behind, but I have been so busy. I have several pictures that I need to post, but haven't. Hopefully tomorrow (September 20th) when I go to my beautiful Granddaughter's Birthday Party, I will have lots of wonderful pictures to post. She will be 2 years already. WOW! I wish that I had more time to publish, but unfortunately I am going into my really busy time of year at work so it will probably get worse before it gets better.

Mud Pies

2008-08-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Camille and Tyler play in the mud at Yuba Lake... SWAMP THING! Actually everyone, including the Papa was at one time buried in the mud. We have had so much family fun with our Wave Runners this year, but it is also funny to see them parked and see the siblings have just as much fun on the rafts and tackling each other in the mud or sand. We have been to so many Lakes and Reservoirs this summer including Yuba, Bear Lake, Gunnison Reservoir, Utah Lake, etc. and some several times.

Family Reunion 2008

2008-07-09T11:38:00.001-07:00

Zip Line Fun!

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

Each year at our family reunion, my son-in-law, Richard is kind enough to put up a zip line for everyone's enjoyment. This has been a family tradition that EVERYONE looks forward to. We decided to take a video of us using it because it has become legend among our friends. It is SOO much fun! We really should take a video of him climbing the trees to set it up because he really has talent. It almost looks like he's wearing anti-gravity shoes. Go Go gadget!!

Dad - The Outlaw

2008-05-07T12:26:00.002-07:00

Both you and your machine! Glad you and your boys can share in the fun.

Check out all this AIR

2008-05-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

Ty! The picture cut off your head... luckily you came home with it still attached. Thankfully, as much as you love this sport, your injuries have been minimal. We look forward to more awesome pictures to come.

DAREDEVIL BEEFY!!!!!!!

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

This Kid feels better up in the air than on the ground. Thank goodness he came home safe. If he's got more than one wheel on the ground, he just ain't happy!

We May not Have it All Together

2008-05-07T11:58:00.000-07:00

But Together We Have it All

Michael Rippin' up the Slopes

2008-05-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

Michael riding the rail at Brighton this year. This kid is FEARLESS! I am glad I only get to see him in pictures, otherwise.....

Look Ma! My Hair Matches my Eyes

2008-05-07T10:21:00.000-07:00

Russell had to dye his hair for 'Miser', the school play. Thank Goodness it falls a month after his prom which this is a picture of with Shay.

2008-04-25T09:38:00.000-07:00

Look at my cute boys! Prom 2008 West Jordan "Beautiful as You".

What a Stud!

2008-04-15T14:53:00.000-07:00

Michael poses for a business card. This boy simply cannot take a bad picture. This week he is in Arizona finishing up school. When he 'walks' he'll have their equivalent of a financial and business degree. WAY TO GO!

Poor Beefy's Big Broken Owie

2008-04-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

Just in time for motorcycle riding season (Ethan's first favorite passion), Ethan decided to break his ankle playing basketball (Ethan's second favorite passion). So now he gets to wear this super sylish boot to school every day for three weeks. He swears there's no way it's going to hold him back from riding his motorcycle. We'll see.

2008-03-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

My baby girl sledding. What a blast! On a swimming pool floaty, but Who Knew!