The Pages

My Favorite Christmas Gift

2011-12-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

Christopher is SO happy, words can't even describe it. We had a wonderful chat with him for 1 1/2 hours and it went so fast! He was able to speak and see all his Baughan cousins, so that was good we were at the Baughan get together last night.
He expressed such sweet feelings with us, and we are so grateful!!!
He sends his love to everyone!
It's been a wonderful weekend! I love being with family... mine and extended, and feel so blessed.
Merry Christmas Everyone!

How could I EVER forget this one!

2011-12-05T11:29:00.000-08:00

Our nephew Keaton, has to be one of the sweetest, friendliest young men I know. And he up and surprised his parents on Mother's Day that he was filling out his mission papers!

We were SO excited, because we knew the potential this guy had.

I'm not kidding when I say EVERYONE loves him, because it is true. He has a permanent job at Costco, because he is so great.

He entered the MTC in September to serve in the Philippines, and when our cousin Zach entered, Keaton was his guide!

So here is my Aunt Gypsy dropping off Zach and getting to see Keaton!

He is having a great time, loves the food, and is SO happy!

He told a story in one of his letters, that one house he was in, the lady opened the refridgerator and a cat came out. GROSS!!!!

He has had some very interesting stories, ones that his kids will find very funny!

We love him, and know he is doing great!

I'M BACK ON THE BLOCK...AND READY TO ROCK!

2011-11-22T09:56:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am back, and it's been so long, I forgot my password to get in here! SOOOO much has been going on these last few months, or should I say ALL OF THE SUMMER!

I cannot believe it is already time for Thanksgiving and soon Christmas.... and then a drumroll please..... dom dom dom... A WEDDING!

First and foremost, Tyler is getting married! He met Savannah Barker in January and they haven't slowed down yet. We are excited to have her join our family! She is a kind, sweet, smart, beautiful girl, and she LOVES MY SON! Oh yeah, and to make Tyler and even Barry happy(grandchildren)... she a freakin athletic machine!

They became friends, and then started dating. She almost went to BYU, but decided to stay here and get her degree in middle school education.

They are getting married December 31st in the Raleigh Temple, and we will bring the New Year in with a BANG!

So we are pretty much in wedding mode around here. Thanks to her super organized mother, who loves a good party, it has been a VERY easy ride for me!

But the wedding dress fittings, and deciding my part of things has been fun.

In May, Christopher came home from Guadalajara for a little 6 month visit. He just wasn't quite ready to go out. BUT, he leaves this Monday, the 28th to go back to Guadalajara! Bless the heart of his wonderful mission president, who wanted him to come back there so much, he had Christopher go renew his FM3, which allowed him back into the country, so he didn't have to wait another 5 months for a visa, OR go to a different mission. He is going right where he needs to be.

It has been a wonderful experience for us to have him home. He has a light around him that I have watched progress. It has truly been a blessing for us to have him come home.
It wasn't easy, and I am so grateful to so many that have kept him in their prayers, and have been so kind to him. We received phone calls, emails, and cards from family and friends and throughout the entire time, because of these things I have been at peace.

I am so VERY grateful to my Heavenly Father, who is very mindful of us and of our hearts.

I am very proud of Christopher, who knew he needed to do what is right, when he could have just stayed and would have not been ready to give his all.

He is blessed to have a wonderful mission president, who when all is said and done, gets to decide if he wanted him to come back to his mission, and he did, and is full of compliments of Christopher.

So for the second time... my heart will be ripped out. But I am excited to see what is in store for him.

We have had missionaries leave and missionaries come home. Our nephew Jordan left for Peru in August, and he is having a great time, and I'm sure being the best missionary Peru has ever seen! As well as Zach, our nephew is in Japan now. I think last time I posted he was still in the MTC. He too, being the best Japan has ever seen (hope my boss doesn't read this... he went to Japan :))!

And our cousin Zach Baughan is heading to Paris France! Exciting times and lots of prayers for these guys!

Our nephew Matthew came home from Tucsan Arizona with honor, and a HUGE smile as always, and it is so good to have him back with us, only to see him go back to BYU in the winter.

Our cousin Derek Baughan came home from Uruguay with honor, and SKINNY! But it was so good to see him and hear about his time there.

Derek and Zach Baughan

WHEW.... So much to write about, and so little time!

And of course, how could not mention a our new addition... Mr. Jeff Hunt!

Aunt Leslie got married!

She and Jeff started dating early this year, and he just fits right in. We are so happy for the both of them, and hope they will have alot of happy years ahead!

These are just the highlights, I will TRY to be better at this, because there is so much more to come!

***I wrote this post earlier in the week, and I am just getting it posted. Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive of Christopher. He leaves tomorrow, and he appreciates so much the phone calls, and love he has received from everyone, especially tonight.

His Stake President (which is his uncle), set him apart, and it was a very moving, sweet time for all of us. The bond between Christopher and his uncle Joey has been a very special, loving one. I am so grateful for all the love we surrounding us.

Christopher updates...

2011-03-10T10:52:00.000-08:00

I'm a terrible blogger.... PERIOD.
I will try to do better!
We are receiving great letters from Christopher and loving it! He is happy!

He is in a "pilot program" which one of the Elders in our ward told us about before Chris left.
They are basically changing the way they teach and they are starting with the MTC. Some districts in the MTC I hear. Anyway, Christopher is in that group. Which from what I understand will begin in May for all of the missions around the world.

He says because of this he was put on calls the second week of being there with Spanish speaking people. So, needless to say, he has had to learn really quick the language. He said in his last letter that he can communicate pretty well and he contributes it to this pilot program.

So at least he is feeling alittle easy about the language.

He doesn't say too much else about things other than showing his gratitude and reminding us of his love.
My kids are so dang private! Every letter we get he adds, don't share this... and it is something REALLY sweet and touching. But we understand, and so we don't share. But just know that he is doing great, he is learning and growing and having fun! Of course he is... he always does :).

And I am glad that he can have some fun while he is working so hard.

My nephew Kyle bumped into him after Chris did his temple session at 6:30 AM Monday.
And went and got Chris and Elder Jones(he was on splits) McDonalds for breakfast.
So thank you Kyle for taking care of your cousin! He looks very happy, and sleepy in the pictures.

Now for even greater news. You may remember from Tyler's mission this family...

Hermana Lilia who took such wonderful care of Tyler in Veracruz? This is one of the families that Tyler still talks with and just found out that the young man (beside Tyler) is heading to the Mexico MTC this week. And will enter the Guadalajara East Mission.... on you guessed it, March 28th!!!!!

Now if we can get Christopher's Visa and get him there then too! What an incredibly small world this is! Tyler is SO excited! Tyler used to go on splits with Johan, and wouldn't it be sweet if someday Christopher and him would be companions, or at least go on splits together too.

He's Doing Great!

2011-02-16T16:27:00.000-08:00

I have yet to receive any pictures from Christopher... BUT he is a really good letter writer!
I have received more handwritten letters in 3 weeks than I ever thought I would.
He loves his district. He says they have fun while they are learning. He really likes one group, but they are leaving in a couple of weeks.
He said the language is coming along. He is trying not to get frustrated. Which I am sure is easy to do.
We got a note and he was told that they have "completely stopped giving visas to Mexico". We are not sure what this means, but we were pretty sure he wouldn't leave when he was supposed to anyway. So many countries are having visa issues.
So we will see. He may go to Wisconsin like the dream I had afterall :)!

Thanks for the prayers and the letters to him. He loves all the support and appreciates it.
So do we!

Time to catch up!

2011-02-02T16:25:00.000-08:00

So much to catch up on. Finally got some pictures downloaded so I will start at the beginning... and it has been awhile!
Early December, Barry had a business trip to Chattanooga... now for those of you that don't know, I LOVE Tennessee! I love Gatlinburg, I love Knoxville, and now I love Chattanooga! What a cute city. So when he said he was driving not flying, I said...I'm there!
Dumb me didn't take a picture of the actual Chattanooga Choo-Choo, but it was very quaint.
But as I try to do in whatever city I am in, I went to antique stores... and I hit the mother-load!
I LOVE going and looking at old things and love thinking about how people must have lived with these items.
So I did have my camera so I took pictures of fun things.

This looks like my Aunt Helen... and this lady had one rockin wardrobe.
REALLY?Now, I'm not racist, prejudice or against an Asian Navitity...but this was a first for me.
My Grandma had a tree just like this green one, and I have sweet memories sitting in her front room playing with the lights. She was the holiday decorating queen! Love thinking about the lady that served her family with the fancy silver.

Now on to Christmas...
Always fun times with the Baughan and Page families!
Here are just a few pictures.

Oh those funny, funny grandkids. Giving G'pa a whip...
Aunt Leslie doing what she does best...loving on little David.

Best buddies, Abby and Cameron

Jordan, Zach and Christopher

My babies.

All 19(20 with Kate) of the Baughan cousins together finally, and it could be years before we have them all together again.Aunt Marcia got Christopher this so he wouldn't forget his Nana while in Mexico.His reaction..."there will be no question that I have a girl waiting back home".

Cousins

Chris,Kate,Nana and Keaton

Austin, Chris and Keaton...something from a tv show.

Kasey, Kyle and Tyler...the three oldest.

Laura LOVES her Pop-Pop.

.
Christopher's farewell.
January 16th was Christopher's farewell. We have such great supportive families.. we are blessed. Here are a few pictures from that day... of course I didn't get any with the Baughan family, but I did at the airport.
He left on the 23rd, entered the MTC on the 26th.
I can report from a very sweet letter I received... HE IS HAPPY!!!
He really likes his companion. There are 4 going to Guadalajara from his district, and he likes everyone of them.
Elder Willett from Arizona is his companion. He said he loves seeing his cousin Zach... and it gives him comfort. He is learning and actually enjoying it.
His branch president went to Guadalajara and he says he really pumped him up for going there.
SO GRATEFUL!
I miss him like crazy, but so happy he is where he wants to be, and that is the great thing... he is where HE wants to be.
Much more to come....

Now this is three peas in a pod... don't even get them laughing!
Uncle Chris, Andrew and Eli saying goodbye.
Lynn, Carla, Carson, Kalen, and Norah
Grandma and Grandpa Page
Aunt Leslie, Brandon and Will
Uncle Joey, Aunt Marcia, Kristian, Kenley, Karter, and Kade
Christopher loves his Grandma!
And his Aunt Leslie
Pop Pop and Nana Baughan

Chris and his best friends. They are the greatest most supportive friends and I am so grateful for them all!

My boys.

SO very typical.

Getting set apart by his Uncle Joey.

"the blanket" Barry had it in Honduras on his mission, Tyler had it in Mexico and now Chris takes it to Mexico.... Cameron will take it where?....

Uncle Steve, Aunt Lisa, Abby, Zach and Tory say goodbye!

A few days before Christopher left we had so much to get done we took off for the outlets and the mall to finish up. Barry's freshman year roomate was in Chapel Hill for business and they were meeting for dinner. Lucky for us we all went down and spent the day, visited with Dallin(Jaclyn had to work :(. ) And had dinner with Steve. What a nice guy!

It was so fun hearing stories from their freshman year... from Steve, not Barry!

Barry has always said that he could not have had a better roommate. That Steve was so kind. I am so glad I finally got to meet him.

Sunday Spotlight....and MUCH More to Come!

2011-01-16T17:24:00.000-08:00

First, I am sitting in a hotel right now with my boys Barry and Christopher and FINALLY able to blog!
I have SO much to update, but can't download pictures here, OR because my battery was dead, I could not document some of it... I am not a photographer AT ALL!

We have been so busy with getting Christopher ready, and everyday life. I am trying to just take it in and spend all the time I can with him.
We had a special night at the Temple, and I loved his humility, and his willingness to learn in the process up to going. His Nana was his Temple Prep teacher... lucky guy!
This is when my camera broke. So no pictures, but he was very sweet being there with both Tyler and Chris.

We are in Washington DC now and heading out tomorrow to take in as many museums that we can in one day... but the Spy Museum is top priority.

Barry likes to spend one on one with them before they go. They get to choose the place. Tyler went to Vegas for the a basketball tournament that Carolina was in. Christopher loves museums and has always wanted to go to the Spy Museum, and wanted me to go to! YAY ME!

I WILL update with pictures later... I charged the camera :)

Much more to come, even from our Christmas season... that is how behind I am!

Now for our Sunday Spotlight.... It is Miss Abby Page!

LOVE this girl!

Abby is 16, and as you can see such a DOLL! She is the fourth child and only daughter of Barry's brother Steve, and his wife Lisa. She is one of Cameron's best buddies, and when those two are together they will get on the four-wheeler, or golf cart and just ride around forever and laugh the entire time! It is fun to watch them together.

Abby is a junior in high school, and is so smart, and talented, especially in art!
She is a prima ballerina and is a Facebook PRO!
Her plans are to go to BYU, but I really don't know what she wants to study. I will have to find that out!

Abby has always been so special and such a little doll. I knew she would grow up to become such a beautiful outstanding young lady.

We love you Abby!!!

A Very Special Sunday Spotlight.

2010-12-26T16:27:00.000-08:00

Scanner problems...will post picture soon :)

Now that I can resume to blog again (VERY crazy month)... we didn't take a name out of the family name jar. This Sunday WE chose it.
On Saturday December 11th we lost a very important family member.
Barry's Grandma. Lucy Priscilla Page Page(now that is one rockin name!)
SO VERY many wonderful things to say about this special lady, I don't really even know where to begin.

For Barry, tons of memories of beach trips, Sunday afternoons at her house, front porch swing, Almond Joy candy bars...he said for years everytime he would see one in a store he would think of her.
Spending the night at her house and fixing breakfast for them and eating on a tray in front of the wood stove(the HOT infamous wood stove!)
Her wonderful cooking.
How she treated our little family and welcomed us everytime in her home.

For me, she gave me my love affair with iced tea (calm down Mormons...I only drink it when I get the flu).
We moved 5 houses down from Her and Grandpa when Tyler was 16 months old. One time I got really sick and had three little kids and could not keep anything down. Grandma had Grandpa bring me a gallon of iced tea... and BAM there it started. It is the only thing that I could keep down, AND gets me better every time...MAGIC.

Living so close, I became close to the both of them. They were both like my own. I would see them almost everyday.
She LOVED to take care of EVERYONE. She loved her children and grandchildren. She would always make sure you were fed, or at least had a drink when you were there.
She was a wonderful cook, and baked and "fried" like nobody's business!
She always had special treats for the great-grandchildren, and loved holding them as babies and was always so sweet to them.

One of my favorite memories with her is one day I walked down with the kids and we were on the porch swing and we were talking about her son Dale, who passed away 40 years ago(he was 19yrs. old.) She asked me that day "Do you think I will see him again".
I answered her that yes you will and we had a little talk about that. I couldn't help but think of that sweet reunion not only with Grandpa, but especially with Dale when she passed away.

Barry and I were able to be with her as she passed away and it was one of the sweetest experiences we have ever experienced in our lives.
Not knowing what to expect, the sweetness in that room was not what I expected.

Barry's Aunt Shirley and his dad had been with her, and for 10 years have taken exceptional care of her. I am so grateful for the tender care they gave her.

Lindsey told her he loved her, he told her she has been a "good mama' and they loved her, and with a tear in her eye, she took her last breath.
SO VERY SWEET!

You see this is a person that lived to serve her family. She ALWAYS did for someone other then herself. And I personally feel she didn't want to leave her children, as much as she wanted to be with her sweetheart. It took her child to tell her it was okay to go.

NEVER will I forget this night. NEVER!

Marriages would be better, relationships would be better if everyone lived like G'ma and G'pa Page lived and loved. They both were selfless, and caring, and would put others before themselves.

I am SO grateful that they were a big part of my life too.

We love you Grandma Lucy! Thanks for your wonderful life and the wonderful memories you gave us all!

Sunday Spotlight.... PRECIOUS BABY TYLER!

2010-12-05T17:35:00.000-08:00

This week we spotlight Tyler Elizabeth Baughan. She is the fifth child and only daughter of my brother Jonathan and his wife Lisa.
I call her "Tyler Too"... NOT Tyler #2! (Even though my Tyler is #1). She was born precious! She has quite the personality too. She is a talker and so happy! Her brothers ADORE her. She adores them as well.
She is such a good little gymnast that the owners of the gymnastics place where she went told them that she was born for it. She was a natural. Unfortunately, the gym was bought out by some Chinese owners and they pushed her so hard it was no fun...she is only 5! So they took her out.

There is always happiness around when Tyler is around! We love you Ty-Ty!!!

As promised, Dallin and Jaclyn's wedding pictures, or at least some. I haven't seen any from the beautiful reception, but hopefully soon!

It was such a nice weekend. We had a really nice dinner on Thanksgiving in Charlotte, went to Columbia and they were married Friday morning. Although raining and windy, there was alot of love and ALOT of smiles from those two!
Saturday we went to Concord for the reception and had fun being with family.
We are SO happy for those two!

Today I feel extremely grateful... I am grateful for another day on this earth, another day to be a mother, and wife, and grateful for a protection that I will never take for granted. Barry and I are blessed.

And just so you know, if you dent a guardrail in the state of NC... you have to pay for it... NOT a good weekend :)

Grandpa Lindsey!

2010-11-28T18:52:00.000-08:00

Lindsey, Barry and Tyler in Las Vegas at the Carolina game just days before
Tyler went into the MTC.

The Patriarch of this BIG family!

This week's spotlight is Lindsey, Barry's dad.
So Barry is helping with this one! Not that I couldn't say good things about him on my own, but I'm thinking Barry needs to get alittle more involved with this anyway!!!
He was the one that encouraged me to do this weekly anyway...

There are alot of great things we can say about this man. He is a great man!
He is a great family man and LOVES his family! He seems to always want to help and make sure his kids and grandkids are doing okay.
He was a high school teacher for his profession, but most known as the basketball coach, both boys and girls. He coached both his boys in high school(always being harder on them!) And he taught them in seminary too! He coached for 40 years and is admired by all his players.
He still hasn't slowed down any! He plays senior league softball and basketball and travels around on these teams. He teaches driver's ed, and still is very active.
I really can't imagine him ever slowing down.

Barry and Tyler both love going to ballgames with him and playing golf with him.
Tyler will choose his grandpa to go to ballgames with, sometimes over his friends.

I can't think of anytime in our married life that when Barry asked his dad for advice, or if he needed him to be at something, or needed something, that Lindsey didn't respond. He truly is always there when needed.

I love how he loves Barry's mom and how he loves the Lord.

I am grateful for Lindsey and the great example of a father he has been to Barry. Barry had someone wonderful to look up to, and to follow. I know he is the father he is today because of his dad!

We are grateful for you Lindsey and we love you Grandpa!!!

When we get pictures, we will introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Dallin Page!
We had a wonderful weekend celebrating their marriage! More to come on that....

Sunday Spotlight...on Monday :) Gratitude, and a wedding!!!

2010-11-22T10:29:00.000-08:00

Sunday Spotlight is Aunt Christi!
Christi is married to my brother Chris. They met in Ft. Wayne Indiana when he went to lived there for work. She had returned from BYU and they met at church.
They married and they moved back to NC soon after. They were married in the Chicago Temple.
Christi finished up her Communications degree at UNCG and later returned to get her Nursing BSN. The girl has some degrees under her belt!!!
I think she is one of the most determined girls I know. She tries everything when she wants to learn something, and does a great job with it.
She makes AWESOME homemade bread and beautiful jewelry. She is a great mother and she loves my brother! When Chris had his stroke at age 40, she was a wonderful nurse to him and took care of everything and jumped right in to help in his business too. Oh yeah... she has her insurance license too! Told ya she is skilled.
We love Christi!

Of course I can't let this week of Thanksgiving go by and not be SO grateful for all that we have.
We have a loving home. I am most grateful for that. Because that pretty much sums up ALL the things I am grateful for (faith,family,etc...)

The older I get Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it is SIMPLE!
No expectations and no stress (except for the ones that cook).

I have so much to be grateful for that I sometimes take for granted.

And of course this week we are grateful for a WEDDING! Dallin and Jaclyn are getting married this Friday and we are so excited to be able to share that time with them. I LOVE weddings!!!

Who Am I?

2010-11-12T18:08:00.000-08:00

SISTER IN-LAWS.... DO NOT READ (Barry's sisters don't like mushy)... I warned you:)

I attended a funeral of a great man today. John Redwine,and it honestly was the funniest, best funeral I have ever been to. Seriously, two of his daughters spoke, and everyone was laughing, REALLY loud! It was so honest, and true and loving, and gave insight to this great man and made me come away with; I love him even more, and do my children really know me and all that I love and wish for?
So here goes:

I wish every girl in the world could marry someone like Barry, (they just can't have him)
I pray every single day that my children will marry good people. And for Laura, someone like her dad.
I love that Barry and I laugh... all the time. I actually love that he is one of the corniest people I know! That makes me laugh even more.
I wish I could sing, because I really would be a good rock star. REALLY.
(lots of training with the hairbrush growing up).
I love that we still all cuddle in the same bed-all 6 of us.
I love the time I had with my kids when they were little.
I hate dementia! I have a friend who I stayed with this year for 3 hours a week to give her husband a break. It is HEARTBREAKING to watch this intelligent, loving mother and wife, who lived a wonderful life struggle and stare blankly at me because she can't remember her children's names. I have a great respect for the spouses and caretakers of people with this disease.
I hate cancer! I have lost good friends and have watched several friends go through their own personal trials with it.
I love people. I will talk to anyone. Which I am sure really annoys the people sitting beside me on a plane, but I really love hearing about people and their stories. Everyone has one, and I find everyone interesting.
I talk alot! Poor Barry who endures it so sweetly. Thank goodness for him, I have a best friend who I have had for 35 years, and she will always listen to me, because she talks as much as I do!
I wish I had a piece of the parquet flooring from the Boston Garden... I know REALLY?... But I do.
I love that Barry and I both love the Boston Celtics even before we even knew each other....
A perfect trip would be in Boston going to a Celtics game and this won't happen but a concert with the band Boston (one of my favorite bands ever).
I love music. I could drive across country all by myself if I had some really good music to sing with.
I wish I could play the piano like John Ondarsik (Five For Fighting) LOVE them too!
Guitar like Eric Clapton, and the drums like Peter Criss, because I had a crush on him when I was young and he would sing "Beth"...that is messed up! He wore makeup and I dont even know what he looks like... I just liked the song Beth. Don't even know if he is that good, but he was a crush.
I wish my children knew how much I wish I could take away everything bad they have or will go through.
I wish I had more patience when I drive. I wish I didn't say bad words when I get mad at bad drivers.
I'm SO glad I had a heart break in college. He was not for me.
I hope my kids know how much I love their father.
I love to dance. ALOT and I am usually the first one on the dance floor at a dance.
I hate the thought of a child hungry, or without.
One image I will NEVER get out of my mind was the day I spent at a Mexican orphanage, and the look in their eyes. A little 9 yr. old named Julianna would not leave my side that day... and I could not even communicate with her...we smiled alot.
I love that our beautiful home in Mexico was behind a gate in a VERY poor(dirt floor homes)area, because everyday my children had to be reminded of being very blessed in this life.
I want my kids to know how hard their dad works for our family. He is one of the hardest working, honest people I know. Rare these days...
I wish he could start his own business, and LOVE going to work everyday.
I love that everyone always tells me "how nice and sweet my husband is".
I love that he calls me Annie.
I love that he loves his mother and his sisters and respects them.
I really dislike rude people.
I really dislike cocky people.
I have learned that simple is best. At everything. I love simple, humble people.
I love elderly people. I love learning from them.
I love history.
I weep at the thought of the Holocaust. I can't think about it.
I hate the thought of slavery.
I also hate when people have the victim syndrome...
I love my friends.
I tell my kids and husband, and best friends everyday that I love them.
I cannot stand the thought of not.
I love giving people.
I love my parents. I love their love story. I love that they love the Lord. That they taught me to do the same.
I love my brothers. They are giving and funny and we have so much fun when we are together.
I love that they love Barry. They love him like their own brother.
I love my in laws. They raised a wonderful son.
They are good.
I love traditions, we have many.
I love that every Sunday night Barry tells me what he appreciated about me that week, and I do the same.
I am grateful for trials, even though they are hard to go through, they make me stronger.
I love my faith. It is who I am. Or who I should be.
I love that my dad made me drive a 1970 Chevelle when I got my license, and I was embarrassed and then all the boys at school thought it was the coolest car!(man I wish I had that car now!)
I love that I worked in high school and college. It made me independent and I learned to work.
I wish I would have finished college. Marriage and a baby took priority.
I wish I could go back. I still don't know what I would like to study though.
I love that I still miss Barry during the day and I love seeing him at the end of the day.
I love to entertain. I love having friends over and my kid's friends over.
I love to cook.
I love that we say the ESPN music is our theme song. It is on ALL THE TIME!
I have written a children's book, it is from a song I made up for Christopher when he was a baby... I just need to figure out how to publish it.
All my kids have a special song I sing to them.
I love the quote "the greatest thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother". SO much wisdom and truth in that. I was reminded of this quote today at the funeral.
I wish I could fix every ones problems.
I am not scared to die, I know where I am going. I just don't want to leave my kids motherless. Barry, pshhh women will be lined up at the funeral waiting for him!
I love how Tyler because he is 6'3, kisses the top of my head
I love how Christopher makes me laugh.
I love how Laura calls me in the middle of the night because she needs to talk to me.
I love how Cameron is so helpful and constantly asks me if he can help me in the kitchen or whatever I am doing. Seriously the sweetest child EVER!

I guess you can see a little bit more about me here. I hope my kids will know these things. I am so sure there are so many other things... things that are so personal and not to blog about, but if they just know two things that is all I care about. My love for my faith, my Savior, my Father in Heaven, and my family.
Because of these things I am happy. VERY happy.
And most of all I am grateful I am loved by them all!

Sunday Spotlight

2010-11-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

Austin with his siblings and mom in Washington

Austin with his baby sister Tyler

I REALLY need to update more often. I will get to it someday! But for now, our Sunday Spotlight is Austin!
Austin O'Neal the first child of my brother Jonathan and his wife Lisa. He, my Laura and his dad Jonathan all share this middle name. They are named after my grandma Highberger.
Austin is 17 and PRECIOUS! He has always been such a sweet, quiet boy and I love him!
He is a great athlete and played football for years, but took a break his senior year. He goes to a Charter School in Lake Norman where they live, and he doing great!
He is smart, and funny and has the cutest smile E.V.E.R.
He is the oldest of 4 boys and 1 girl, and she ADORES him. We are so glad you are in our family Austin and we love you!

HOLD THE PHONE.... and Sunday Spotlight!

2010-10-31T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hold the phone people.... our nephew Zach has been issued a different mission call!
He is now going to serve in the Sendai Japan mission!!! (we knew this last week, but I wanted his mom to have a chance to blog first :))
He enters the MTC the same day as Christopher now, January 26th. We are so happy for him and that they get to go in together.
私たちはあなたを愛しています！

Sunday Spotlight is Dallin!
Dallin is the oldest child of Barry's brother Steve and his wife Lisa. And he is the second oldest Page grandchild. We have some great memories with Dallin. He and Tyler were always buddies and are only 11 months apart.
He is attending UNC at Chapel Hill right now and soon to be MARRIED!!! He and Jaclyn are getting married November 26th. We are so excited for them!
Dallin is a quiet, serious boy, but has a funny sense of humor too. He is so smart and sweet too! He served a mission in Anaheim California and he was a great missionary!
He loves soccer and I heard through the grapevine is a guitar player now!
We are so grateful to have Dallin in our family and We LOVE you Dallin!

A Sad Day and Sunday Spotlight.

2010-10-24T08:10:00.000-07:00

Charlie's spot right beside the chair that I always sit in!

Our SWEET dog Charlie died in October 13th. It was a TERRIBLE day!!! Charlie was the BEST dog in the world. He was like a baby, cat and dog all together. He would cuddle with anyone, I mean literally lay in your arms like a baby!
He laid around like a cat... and everything else like a dog.
He lost his sight 2 years ago, lost his hearing, and by October was just losing control of everything.
We rescued him from the pound when his previous owner who was elderly had died. From that day on he was so good.
Cameron was very attached to him and took this pretty hard. I did not realize how difficult this was to do!
He has a sweet resting place and Cameron made this stone.
We miss him, but know he can run and play and see!!!
We love our Charlie!!!

Sunday Spotlight this week is yet another Baughan!
It is our nephew Kenley. He is the 5th son of my brother Joey and his wife Marcia. His name is James Kenley... so he is named after my brother Chris and my granddaddy Baughan... sweet!
Kenley is 15 and a sophomore at East Forsyth.
He and Cameron AND Christopher are great friends. He is athletic and oh SO SMART!
He plays the piano and the trumpet with Cameron at school.
He has a really funny sense of humor and I love when he hangs out at our house!
We love you Kenley! Glad you are in our family!

Sunday Spotlight and Our Trip to General Conference.

2010-10-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

Barry and I had a great time in Utah last week. The nice people at Continental Airlines needed someone to bump and offered Barry 600 dollars to do so! We needed to use the ticket by this month so a few months ago we decided a trip to Conference would be a nice get-away for us both. It was exactly what we needed!
There is nothing like hearing the Choir in the Conference Center!!!
We spent some time with our nephews on both sides of the family, friends and my college roomate that I have not seen for 14 years!
We only had tickets for Sunday morning and Barry and Zach and Jordan had tickets to the Priesthood session.
We just really missed our kids! Conference weekend at home is a BIG deal for us. I spend hours in the kitchen cooking for the weekend, and we literally lay around the entire weekend. So it was sad not being there with them.
We are grateful they kept the fort down here and everything went smoothly so we could have a nice trip.

My roomate Sarah and her awesome kids! LOVE THIS GIRL!!!
Our Nephews Jordan, and Zach, friend Kirby and their friends from BYU. CUTE KIDS!

Barry and me, Jaewon Song(Dallin's mission companion) and nephew Zach.
Barry, Zach and Jordan heading into the Priesthood Session. (They were a great replacement for his own boys on that night!)

Now for our Sunday Spotlight... this week is one of the cutest kids EVER...
Carson Baughan!
This boy is a CUTIE PIE! He is quiet, and bashful and has the cutest laugh ever!

He is a great football and baseball player and he is QUICK! He is tough when it comes to playing sports. He is the third son of my brother Jonathan and his wife Lisa. He is one of 4 boys and they have 1 sister... who Carson is so sweet to.

We love Carson and look forward to watching him grow up to do great things!

Sunday Spotlight and A Wedding!

2010-09-19T19:27:00.000-07:00

Our spotlight this week is....
Kalen Massey!
She is the daughter of Barry's sister Carla and her husband Lynn. This is a girl after my own heart! If she were my daughter we would craft everyday!
Kalen turned 12 this past July right in the middle of the Stake Girl's Camp... that is where the picture was taken.
She is a sweet girl who is really blossoming into such a pretty young woman. She is active and plays volleyball and soccer.
She is obsessed with fingernail polish and "painting" her nails. This girl NEVER goes without having her nails painted. I think I deserve a good manicure of better yet a good relaxing pedicure from her! I'm sure she would do it too!
We look forward to watching her grow and become a beautiful young woman.
We love you Kalen!
Now for some GREAT and EXCITING news... we are having a wedding in the Page family!
Our sweet nephew Dallin is marrying his sweet Jaclyn in the Columbia SC Temple on November 26th.
They are such a cute, precious couple and we are SO happy for them and can't wait to celebrate with them!
Congratulations Dallin and Jaclyn!

Mission Calls and A Sunday Spotlight!

2010-09-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

With great joy we announce that our second son Christopher has been called to the

Mexico Guadalajara East Mission!!!!!!!!!!

That's right... another son off to Mexico! We just couldn't be more thrilled for him to have this opportunity to serve the Lord with the GREAT people of Mexico!

A few days before he received his letter, Barry said to me " I feel we will have some connection to he place he will serve".... and a connection we do! Tyler is SO excited for him and will be such a help getting him ready to go there. Barry travels to Monterrey every month, and of course we lived there 11 years ago... so yes indeed, we have a special connection and a GREAT love for this country.

I emailed President and Sister Hansen that day and told them and told them who is mission president will be and Sister Hansen spoke so highly of Sister Jesperson and said that my son will be very loved there.... I bet she learned from Sister Hansen how to be like that! :)

This is President and Sister Jesperson(blond) with their two teenage sons. Sister Hansen also said she is beautiful and Sister Hansen is correct!

He reports on January 26, 2011 and he is ready to Go!

And what made it even better is his cousin Zach received his call the day before and he is going to serve in Tulsa Oklahoma and speak the language of Hmong! One of my seminary students last year speaks 5 languages and Hmong is one of them... It blew me away when I asked her to speak it for me one day!

We are SO excited for all the experiences that Zach will have and the love he will feel from these humble, loving people...the picture below says it all, Zach is truly a "Strippling Warrior"

Expect some GREAT things from these two missionaries! There will be many more updates and lots to blog about!

Our Sunday Spotlight this week is ... Eli Baughan!

Eli is the second son of my brother Chris and his wife Christi. He had a big birthday this week, he turned 12!

Eli is a SMART, SWEET young man who loves basketball, video games and when I am there he loves to play basketball on the trampoline.

He is a great brother to his brother and sister, and Cameron loves to hang out with Eli.

We LOVE you Eli!

What We Have Been Up To!

2010-08-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

WHEW! What a month... and where did the summer go?! June started out with graduations and although we didn't have any we had alot of friends and family that did. Our nephews Jordan and Zach graduated with honors and we are so proud of them!
Tyler went out to BYU to take a Spanish class and test out to receive credits and a whopping 19 he walked away with!!! I had no idea it would be that many. It wasn't as easy as he thought it would be, but really helped him "formally" study Spanish.
He lived in my brother's "frat" house with 8 guys who he really liked, and got along with well. Two of them were his cousins, and the rest friends. I wish I had a picture of all them together. They really got along well, and they are begging him to come back... and it worked! He is heading out in January.
He was also able to get together with several of his mission buddies and attend Elder Godfrey's (his MTC companion) wedding. And of course a highlight, to reunite with Elder Moyar! He came home a couple of weeks before Tyler left,and hanging out with him was fun I am sure... never a dull moment with James Moyar around :).
Laura moved out in July with her high school friends Liz and Lindsay, and I miss her BAD! She is only 30 minutes away, but I miss her smile, and her hugs!
She is enjoying school and still working 25 hours a week. I love when she comes home to visit and she brightens our home!
She and Tyler both spoke in the ward designated for the single adults today, and it was great to hear them both, and then to have them home the rest of the day was even better!
Christopher (#123) is doing GREAT at his job, and working so hard and LOVING those nice paychecks :).
His mission call at this moment is in the hands of the inspired men that will determine where he will be the next two years, and he is so anxious to receive it.
We should know this week or next. We have all put in our guesses(tradition in the Baughan family). I have a feeling Wisconsin for some reason...but said Texas for the state(we do one state, and one country).
Cameron started his sophomore year at East Forsyth, and is so far very happy with his teachers and his classes. He has already hit us up that his band is going on a cruise? His German class is going to Germany at the "special price of 3500.00", AND his finance academy is going to NYC???????????????
Sounds like he may need a job!
He is starting back with piano again, which I am thrilled, because he has a natural talent with music.
Barry is starting to travel every third week to Monterrey Mexico now, so his life has gotten more hectic.
I am enjoying NOT getting up for seminary, but I do miss the studying and the kids.
I LOVE my job at Tanglewood Research, where I really do work for the best boss EVER!
He wants me to work around my family and schedule and allows me to do all the things I need to do. I work part-time and I am the "Operations Manager" (sounds important huh?) basically I ship packages and keep customers happy!
We are a drug,alcohol and violence program for school age children. Officially it is called All-Stars.
I really do enjoy what I do.
I am sure there will be much to update in the coming weeks. We have a had a great summer with our trip to Washington for Kasey and Kate's wedding and lots of family time.... it doesn't get any better than that! We LOVE all of our BIG Baughan and Page family and times together make for fun and memories!

In front of the Temple where it all started! Missing Tyler though!Christopher dancing with his Nana... never a dull moment!
Our family with Kasey and Kate... isn't she beautiful?!

My La La and Me!

Sunday Spotlight!

2010-08-29T18:36:00.001-07:00

I missed last week because I was out of town, but these Sundays sure come around QUICKLY!
Our spotlight this week is.... Daddy, Pop-Pop, Tom, and he is loved by us all!

My dad is one of the kindest people I know. He cannot stand to think anyone is hurting. When we were growing up we had a man at church who had alot of kids and my dad always wanted to help him out. The joke among us kids is he would pay this man 100 dollars an hour(not really) to fix the smallest things around our house. He has a HUGE heart.
He always wanted us kids to be happy. I think the greatest blessing to me is how he loves my Mom. He ADORES her.
He is a very humble person, and is a very hard worker.
He loves the Lord and decided years ago to devote his time to serving Him.
He loves working in the Temple, and after their official calling there was over, they continue to work there each Friday.
Memories I have of my Daddy are many, but he taught me to work hard, and if it is not right the first time, do it again!
He taught me to love others.
I am glad my children have him as their granddad. He loves and worries about them like he did his own kids (he just doesn't have to wait up in his recliner like he did with us until we came home at night!).
We are grateful for him!
We love you Daddy!

Sunday Spotlight!

2010-08-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally have a Page to brag about! I told Barry "I REALLY did put the Page names in the hat!"
This weeks spotlight is none other than Myra, Barry's mom.
This could be a VERY long post, but I will try to keep it short.
This woman LOVES her kids! She worries about them like CRAZY and just always tries to make sure they have all they need, and one of her well known qualities is making sure everyone has a full belly!
She is famous (well by her family and friends) for her homemade sourdough bread. She mails it to her missionary grandsons, and the grandkids love being able to take a loaf home and usually it is picked on all the way home!
She is a great southern, comfort food, kind of cook. A few years ago Laura and I ate at Paula Deen's(Food Network's famous chef) famous restaurant in Savannah Ga.
We waited for 1 hour just to put our name on the list, and then ANOTHER hour or two to get in IF they called your name. IN 102 degree heat and humidity.
When someone asks me how it was and was it worth it, I HONESTLY say, my mother-in-law cooks better than that! She loves feeding us, and we especially loved when she would can and freeze all the garden food and we would go home with a goodie bag full of groceries.
I have watched her the past 25 years that I have been around her and she loves to do things for her family.(I have also watched her barely age!) She looks GREAT at her age!
Barry's favorite things about his mom and I quote "her pecan pies"... told ya!
He also said "she is always trying to help someone in her family".
My favorite things... the wonderful son she raised! Family and the Gospel are very important to her. I am grateful for the mother she is to him... even to this day!
I also am grateful for how she takes care of her father. He is 101 years old, and his age is rapidly catching up with him. She feeds him and looks over him on a daily basis. This is not an easy time in her life, but she AGAIN makes sure that he is happy, and taken care of.
She has been a very supportive wife to Barry's dad through the years as he coached basketball for the high school in their town, and I really doubt that she missed many games at all. She would even ride the bus with the team to the away games too!
I honestly can't imagine what our family would be like without her. And I don't want to!
She deserves way more than a spotlight from us,but all she wants is her family to be happy, healthy and well-fed :)

We love Grandma Myra!

Sunday Spotlight!

2010-08-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

Wow, Sunday's come quickly! But it makes me work on the blog. This week we drew the name....Keaton!
Now, this is the second week and already two of my brother Joey's boys! But with 7 boys in just his family, the odds are with them!

Keaton is the third son of Joey and Marcia, and he is a GREAT young man! He is going into his third year at BYU and LOVES it there.
He is SMART!!! He is one of the most dedicated young men I know. He is a very hard worker, and student. He literally has an open job at Costco that will always be there for him when he comes home from school because they love him so much.
He is so polite, sweet, and SO kind! I see why they love him there. We love him too.
He is trying to decide on what to major in, but I know whatever he chooses he will be great at!
My kids think he is a great cousin, and they love his sense of humor.
WE LOVE KEATON!

Spotlight Sunday!

2010-08-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

So trying to spice the blog up alittle, as ALWAYS I run ideas by Barry, and he usually doesn't really care...UNLESS it has to do with him :). That is a NO-NO in a BIG way!

But, when trying to really think about how my family would read this in the future I thought about what would be interesting.

That is when I came up with Spotlight Sunday. And Barry LOVED it! We are so blessed with ALOT of loved ones around us. We each come from a family of four kids each and with spouses and children and aunts and uncles and cousins and so on and so on.... we have a ton of love around us.

So what better way than to spotlight one person each week! We will draw a name from a hat, and either tell memories or why we love that person. This way we and you if you care, can see that person the way we see them.

I could not believe the first person I pulled out this week- my nephew Kasey!

It is not like he isn't getting any attention this week anyway... HE IS GETTING MARRIED!

So I am thrilled to write about him!

Kasey is my oldest brother Joey's second son, and happens to also be one of Tyler's best friends!

He is probably one of the most humble young men I know, and I DO NOT say that lightly.

He is so smart and athletic and funny and quiet! He served a mission in Pusan Korea where his dad served 30 years ago.

He hates any attention on himself, and told me yesterday he is not looking forward to the attention on him around his wedding, but wants it all on Kate - I know ,HOW SWEET IS THAT!

He and Tyler have been buds from the time they were very little, and have really enjoyed the last couple of months in Provo being roomates.

Kasey is very helpful and would do anything for anyone,a trait he gets from both his parents.

When he finishes up at BYU next year he will apply to law school (hopefully close to home!)

We are SO excited for Kasey and Kate( he is marrying one of the sweetest girl EVER! ) When someone asked me about Kate, I say, Kasey is marrying someone just like his Nana!

But we think Kate is one lucky girl herself!

We love you Kasey and can't wait to go this week and be with you in the Temple!

Kasey and Kate's engagement picture... SO CUTE and perfect of them!

Couldn't Resist Sharing This!

2010-07-26T17:42:00.000-07:00

There are certain things I either don't blog about, don't post, and am NOT ALLOWED to blog about. Pictures.... my entire family are not fans of putting pictures of themselves up, and so I don't put a lot of pictures of us, especially posing???! Why? it is bad enough for me to look in a mirror, why do I want to see myself on my blog!!! :)

Then certain things we do. (This is where my kids chime in) But in this case I really needed to record this because it is WAY too cute!
Barry has a calling at church that requires an office (that is all I can say :))

This is what he found on Father's Day when he came in to his office

Not the art work, but every single child in primary

And every youth!
Barry LOVES this!

They had to sneak in and put it up with some help with someone who has a key!

Perfect for him!

#123

2010-07-21T19:10:00.001-07:00

Blessing do come from having a missionary, but what a HUGE blessing came our way because this cutie pie is getting ready to serve a mission!

Barry received a phone call a couple of weeks ago from a man (Bro. McG.) who has a law practice and a business of working with law firms throughout the Triangle area of NC. He is opening a business in Kernersville to work between Greensboro and Winston-Salem.

He called because it is his desire to alway first hire prospective missionaries. Well as this tender mercy would just so have it... Christopher is the only one this summer preparing to go in the fall.

To make a long story short, after meeting with Chris this is how the conversation went.

Br. McG---"Chris, how much do you plan on saving for your misson?"

Chris--- "My parents would like me to save half, but at the rate now, we settled on 3500.00"

Br. McG--"Not Enough!!!"

Chris -- "okay"

Br. McG--- "Here is the deal and here are my rules. I was 28 when I joined the church, I never had the chance to serve a mission. When I was blessed with this business that is doing so well, I promised to help send missionaries out. You are # 123. "

(he gave Chris a calculator and asked him to multiply 123x8500.00 (just short of the 10,000 needed for a mission)-

Br. McG--Continuing on. "If you chose not to go on a mission, I will fire you. I have only had to fire 3 people. You will wear a shirt and a tie everyday, you will be cleanly shaven everyday.

You will have Book of Mormon CD's in the company van as you drive where you need to go."

Now here is what I loved...

Br. McG-- "You have a responsibility to represent my company, but most of all you are representing your family's name. You can let me down, you can let the world down... BUT NEVER LET YOUR PARENTS DOWN." ( I love this guy!)

He truly belives that young men should work for their missions. (And he and Chris settled on a bigger amount) YAY for us!

I remember talking with a friend of ours who was a mission president and his wife on how he recognized great missionaries. One of things he said was " I loved when we got a young man from Idaho!" "Hard working potato farmers make GREAT missionaries".

He also said " Young men that work to pay for their missions seem to really appreciate it too".

Now, I am sure that it isn't always the case, but we reminded Tyler during his mission of his Costco days that helped pay for it, and you better be darn skippy sure we will remind Christopher of his hard work too.

This job is not a piece of cake. It is intense and stressful and will make him grow up in 4 months (another tender mercy :) )

It is a well paying job, and comes with a promise that if he returns with honor, that job will be there for him when he gets back! (See why I love Br. McG?!)

This could not have come at a better time for our family. It was truly an answer to a prayer.

Br. McG actually said to Christopher and me(he wanted me to come meet the group too),

"It is no coincidence that you are sitting here Chris... I don't know why you are the one, but you are and this is a great opportunity for you."

I know why he is there, and no it is not a coincidence... it is a tender mercy, a blessing of missionary work, for more than just the financial reasons.

He will be on the board at work as... # 123!

YUMMY!

2010-06-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

I am writing a cookbook... yes after years of collecting them, and trying out different recipes, I am writing one. Cameron named it "It's A Keeper" because for years if I try something new, I look at my family and say "is it a keeper"? And sometimes they are brutally honest, but that is fine, that is exactly what I want. So I keep the ones they like, and this will be what is in it.
I am writing it for me to organize all my favorites, and I wanted to make one for Laura too.
So I thought I would every so often put some of my favorites on the blog.
I actually have a recipe and tip blog... but that is too much to do, I am condensing it to this one.

I LOVE fruit!
But I also unfortunately love fruit dip on my fruit too.
A few friends and I hosted a bridal shower a few weeks ago and Denise S. brought this dip and I lost control!!!
This is one of the best fruit dips I have ever tasted.
And SO easy.
Oh and I will give credit where credit is due! So thanks Denise Stafford for this heavenly dip!
Here goes...
8 oz. Cool Whip
Lg. can of crushed pineapple drained
6 oz. vanilla instant pudding mix
small can of Cream of Coconut(sold in mixed drink section).

Simply Mix.
YUM!

Family Updates!

2010-05-28T20:18:00.000-07:00

A special thanks to my mother in law who told me about a lady she met in Wal-Mart that did "House Parties" and got free stuff.... well on another visit she saw the same lady and got the information... I signed up and this is just one of the "house parties" I scored! Check out the awesome canner and looks like a great soup pot to me! Go to http://www.houseparty.com/ sign up for them and get great stuff like I did! We scored some great Digorno pizza stuff too!

My nephew Kasey and his sweet bride to be Kate! I still can't believe we get to have her in our family! She is the cream of the crop when it comes to girls!

(she didn't do too bad herself :))

Elder Matt in Arizona! Doing great and still smiling!
We love Matt!

My cousin Derek in Uruguay. I thought this was a great picture of him. But I love the one below where he has one foot in Uruguay, and one foot in Brazil!
Classic!
He is doing great and still smiling as well!
We love D!

And boy was this the greatest treat for me! I love Annie and on my last trip to Apex, I walked right in the room, and sat right beside her! I haven't seen her in years since she moved from Caswell and married this WONDERFUL man!
We had so much to catch up on and I have always cherished her friendship.
It was tough getting through a session and not being able to talk to her!
We made up for it afterwards and I am so thrilled for her and the love she has found.
I want my new night to go to the temple to be Wednesday's now, they are there every week.
And Annie you look so happy and BEAUTIFUL! Love is definitely all over their faces :)

We have been B-U-S-Y. A lot to update about

First Congrats to Laura our first college graduate!... well, her associates degree and now she is finishing her bachelors.

No pictures, because she refused to walk! And also informed us that she is not walking when she gets her bachelors degree either, which opened up a conversation with all of our children and all said they are not walking! I can't blame them. I wouldn't either. Barry didn't when he graduated either.
But we are proud of her. She has worked hard and still continues to work at her job at Costco and is moving out this summer.
She has decided on a Public Relations degree and will get it from NC A&T University. They are the only local university close that has that degree. She will be great in public relations.

Tyler is heading to BYU for the summer and will get his language credits which could almost get him a minor in Spanish and a full semester worth of credits! LOVE IT!
I am excited for him because he is going to live in a house full of cousins and best friends. He is going to have a blast!
I am glad he will have this experience. He is still working right now for Rudy Click's accounting firm and Rudy is so great enough to hold his job until he comes back.
He is heading to UNCG this fall, and then either transfer or stay here. He has decisions to make and I am excited for him.

Christopher finished his first year of college here at Forsyth Tech and did great! His final grades were great and this was a good choice for him.
He is now employed by Wal-Mart... ANOTHER job! He is actually in receiving and it is wearing him OUT!
He has learned many things by working there. One, that he really wants to hurry and earn his mission money fast. It has been an adjustment from being a life guard a couple days a week, to working 32-40 hours a week in a hard labor job.(It makes him tough). And I feel when he is riding a bike, or walking non-stop on his mission, he will appreciate all the hard work he did for those days. At least I hope so!
Cameron is in the final days of his freshman year of high school. He has done well, and worked hard to keep up the schedule and work he has had.
He had a major accomplishment when he was asked to be in the jazz band the next three years.
I had no idea how big this really was until one of my seminary students said to me it is rare anyone is asked to do this until they are juniors or seniors. Both he and his cousin Kenley are two of the four total trumpet players in the band.
We are proud of both of them!
He is counting down the days until EFY! That is the highlight of his summer.

I completed my fourth and final year of teaching seminary. It is the BEST calling in the church.
I have loved this so much. It was a calling I never aspired to... EVER and can't believe I said yes :)
But I am so glad I did.
I have so many plans for my nights now instead of studying! I hope I will never lose the desire to study though that intently. I have learned so much. I will definitely miss it.

As for Barry, he is still insanely busy, and he is still traveling to Mexico each month.
We are just grateful that cars are selling and airbags are still needed!
We are grateful for a job.

We are gearing up for a busy summer. We have so many weddings to attend this summer. I guess our kids are at the age that their friends are getting married. I look forward to that.

My nephew Kasey asked sweet Kate Hiatt to marry him and we are just pleased beyond words!
Kate was one of my young women years ago in the Summit Ward, and I just absolutely adore her! Everyone does around here though. As my brother Chris says... Kate Hiatt= family upgrade! They have chosen to be sealed in the Washington DC temple in August, so we are planning a vacation around that.
We love Washington!

Lots of plans and fun ahead.

Motherhood.

2010-05-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

Pretty much all summed up by President Thomas S. Monson...

"It is the mother who creates memories and righteous traditions. It is the mother who is the consistent force who never gives up on a child. It is the mother who stays up late and gets up early to work with a child to complete assignments and projects. It is the mother who worries. It is the mother who rolls with life’s punches and teaches her children to do the same. It is the mother who teaches her children, “There are no problems so great that we cannot solve,” and then sets about solving the world’s problems. God bless all the mothers of the earth. God bless all the homes of the world to develop and maintain righteous traditions."

I love traditions, I am grateful for the traditions in my home, the home I grew up in, and the home Barry grew up in...
I love traditions so much I am someday going to do a post about the ones we have developed through the years... I said someday!

Mother's Day was a sweet day as it always is and again I am thankful for this overwhelming role that has been given to me. Overwhelming because I want them to get so much of me out of the short time they are with me. I am blessed to have these sweet four children entrusted to me, most days I do not feel worthy.

I love being a mom!!!
(and LOVED the fact that Tyler called 2 of his "Mexican moms" yesterday, and of course his "mission mom" to tell them "Happy Mother's Day") It is a blessing to share that day with them, they took such good care of him. I also got to speak with Sister Hansen for the first time and it made my day!
I do love his mission mom!

Happy Mother's Day to our sweet Mothers, and all the mother's who make me better...
I LOVE learning from others and especially when it comes to mothering.

50 Years and Many More to Go!

2010-04-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

These two wonderful people were married 50 years ago today... and boy are we happy that we could celebrate it with them!

We all went out to dinner to celebrate. Most of us plus a few extra :)

We love them and they do so much for us. They always put us before themselves and always are willing to help.

Congratulations Myra and Lindsey and we can't wait to celebrate many more ahead!

We love you!

Long Overdue Here.... But Here is Our Latest Eagle Scout!

2010-03-30T09:39:00.000-07:00

His Scoutmaster David Lewis... who we praise!!!

Chris with his very supportive and wonderful Grandparents

Me with my boys! One more to go! (Tyler had to borrow someone's shirt!)

Here with his Dad, who helped him so much with this... we praise him too!

Christopher received his Eagle Scout award last year! But we FINALLY held the Court of Honor last week... for many different reasons... but anyway, it was a good night. We kept it VERY simple (didn't even send out invites). This was Christopher's choice.

Jake Shields received his that night too.

For his project he built a swing set and sand box in the "Grove" area behind our church building.

We have a lot of ward activities there, as does the other ward that meets there, and families use it for family gatherings as well. It was a rewarding project to do!

We are all proud of you honey!!!

New Ideas for The Blog.

2010-03-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

Looky, Looky at this SWEEEEET book I received in the mail this weekend!!! I am so excited and it was very sweet of my new friend Lisa Bearnson to do this.

Here is the story...

A few months ago a sweet family(Mortensons) that used to live in our stake and has since moved away lost their son. He was 19 I think? It was a tragic death, and not expected. When I was trying to find this family through the internet, I came across Lisa Bearnson's blog, who is best friends with Annette Mortenson.

A little bit of background... Lisa is the founder of Creative Keepsakes Magazine and I call her the "scrapbook queen". She frequented QVC until she "retired" from her company last year.

Long story short... I was reading her blog and noticed her son just came on a mission to NC a few weeks ago.

She misses him terribly.... I know that feeling!

So two weeks ago at a wedding luncheon at the Cheesecake Factory in Durham, low and behold two young missionaries are holding the door as I walked out!

I looked at his name tag, and it said "Elder Bearnson"!

I said "I read your mom's blog"!!! His face lit up and he could not stop smiling! He was as poised as a veteran 2 year Elder and was so sweet and polite.

I asked him if he wanted me to write on his mom's blog anything from him and he said " tell my mom I love her very much and I miss her".

SWEET huh?

So I went home wrote the note, and immediately got a note on her blog to leave my number. I did and she called and we had a wonderful conversation.

So this is where the book came from. (The white paper is covering a sweet note she wrote me)

But this is a GREAT book! It is mainly for how to scrapbook the important things in life and gives prompts on ideas. She states that it is to give prompts for blogging too.

Just what I needed!

There are a couple of blogs I read of people I don't know personally and I LOVE their blogs because of how they tell the story of their families.

I want mine to be something like theirs... and this book will help.

So thank you dear Lisa Bearnson! It was a pleasure meeting your sweet son, who is going to be a great missionary here in NC, and it was a pleasure meeting you over the phone.

Now I need to make time for blogging!

22 Years of Tyler!

2010-03-09T17:49:00.001-08:00

Barry is contributing to this post... finally!

22 Reasons we love Tyler!

22. The boy STILL has it on the basketball court!

21. He finally has a job! YAY!!!

20. He just bought his own car... AND already has the title to it. He LOVES his 1995 Honda Civic and LOVES the gas mileage since he pays for that too!

19. So I love that he is independent and self-sufficient.

18. Has decided where to go to school, AND what he will major in... for now!

17. Has made good decisions in choosing his friends.

16. Loves teaching the Teacher's Quorum every Sunday, and mission prep class.

15. Is VERY interested in dating, and dating every chance he gets :)

14. Attends the Temple and loves going.

13. Loves little children.

12. Keeps his room clean.

11. Loves the Single Adult program and "hanging out" with them ALL THE TIME!

10. Good at playing cards, but hasn't played for money in 2 and 1/2 years!

9. Is affectionate to his family... but don't bother him during a game :)

8. Loves his Grandparents, loves to visit them, and chooses his Grandpa Lindsey to
watch a ballgame with even above his friends.

7. Happy to help the missionaries in the ward, especially when he gets to go to
the "hispanic" area of town.

6. He is very appreciative of everything we do for him (always has been, but more
so now).

5. Is a great example to his non-member friends.

4. Is a great brother and a great example to them.

3. Is a great son. Always open, honest, and loving to us both.

2. He is faithful.

1. He loves the Lord, and has a grateful, humble heart.

So humble, I will probably get in trouble of saying these things :)

We love you forever Tyler, you are a joy to have in our family.

Feliz Cumpleanos!

23 Years...

2010-03-06T17:24:00.000-08:00

"Love is like the North Star. In a changing world, it's always constant."
— Gordon B. Hinckley

Thanks Barry for always being "my constant".
I love you forever!
Happy Anniversary!

I came home to this...

2010-02-26T11:36:00.000-08:00

We are lucky enough to live a few streets over from my parents. And my kids will just randomly go over for a visit. My dad who just LOVES to tell stories of me as a child, teenager, adult... whatever he can think of tells them ALL! Tyler went over to see them the other day, and my dad pulls a picture out of me.
So this is what I see on my refrigerator...

Sarcasm runs strong in this family, and growing up with three brothers I took ALOT!
My kids enjoy doing the same to me.
I just think it makes me tough....

Dallin's HOME!!!

2010-02-17T14:48:00.000-08:00

This is what Dallin saw as he came in!

Tyler excited to see Dallin after two years!

We welcomed Dallin home from his mission last week. He served in Anaheim California and returned with honor!
We love Dallin and were all so anxious to see that great smile of his! I know he did a great job. He is a sweet nephew and has always held a special place in my heart.
He and Tyler are great buddies, and have grown up together, even though they live in Charlotte and we don't get to see them too often.
Welcome home Dallin! We love you and are "righteously proud" of you!

I just love this picture!

2010-02-17T14:39:00.000-08:00

I know he is home, but I had not seen this picture until President Hansen posted it on their blog. I LOVE it! Tyler says that Elder Moyer has such a great way with children. He says that any place they would go children would just flock to him.
Tyler is pretty humble, because he has always had a great way with kids too.
I really love the faces of the kids here.

Want A Good Inspirational Read?... Go here!

2010-02-12T06:03:00.000-08:00

These stories are truly inspiring. (click on title)

What's In A Name...

2010-02-10T16:58:00.000-08:00

On my goal to turn this blog into our "family journal", I thought I needed to write about us.
So I thought I would start writing about normal, everyday things.
I thought it may be interesting to read 50 years from now about our names that we were given.

My mom in tradition after her mother named each of her children after a family member. Barry and I chose to do this as well. Actually all my brothers and their wives did this too.

We asked Barry's mom if she had anyone in mind when she named Barry and she said "I just liked it"... that is great too. It is something you give your child.
Barry's name is Barry Lynn... I always thought maybe Lynn was short for his dad's name Lindsey.

My name is Anne Elizabeth. Anne being given for my sweet, sweet maternal grandma Annis O'Neal Highberger (SO glad they didn't give me her real name Annis!)
Elizabeth given to me for my maternal great-grandma Elizabeth Vinson and my mom's sister Jenny or Virginia Elizabeth. Love her too!
So I LOVE who I represent! Strong, good women and of course my grandma who I adore is the sweetest woman I have ever known.

So when we started having children, I knew this was a tradition that would be continued.
So our first was named Tyler Philip. Tyler because I grew up with Tyler Bennett and I always thought it was different... well it is so common now! And ironically his sister Lisa married my brother, and later on we even moved next door to them!
Philip after Tyler's grandpa Lindsey AND his great-grandpa Curry Philip Alridge.
I liked the spelling of Curry's middle name (with one L), so we went with that one.
Three great men Tyler is named after! All have a strong work ethic, all are honest, good men.

Next we had Laura O'Neal. Laura because we just loved it. No one that we knew, just a good, old fashioned sweet name. O'Neal after again, my sweet maternal grandma.
Her maiden name. Laura LOVES her middle name. Loves it more than her first name.
My brother Jonathan and his son Austin have this middle name too... Laura also likes that they share the name.

Next we had Christopher Lynn. Christopher named after my brother Chris and we love the name. Lynn after his dad. Two great men for him to represent!

Last we had Cameron Thomas. We knew we were having a boy but did not have a name picked out. We were watching a basketball game... go figure, and UCLA was playing. A player named Cameron Dollar was at the free throw line and his name came up on the screen and I said that is it! I LOVE the name Cameron. Tyler was sitting there and said we should name him Cameron Dollar Page... sounds kinda gangster, but we chose Thomas for my dad, his grandpa. I love the name Thomas too. Such a good, strong middle name. All my siblings have used that name for a child.

I love how our names represent someone. I love how my kids can say... "I have this person's name".

My brother Joey and sister-in-law Marcia have seven boys. Everyone has a grandpa, their dad,or an uncle represented in their name. She said "I love how every important man's name in my life is given to my boys".

Who knows if my children will carry the tradition of giving family names. They may or may not, but the name they give their children will be important because they put thought into it and chose it for them.

Maybe My Mom is Right!!!

2010-02-08T18:06:00.000-08:00

When I pulled out my February calendar today... I was OVERWHELMED! My mom constantly tells me to slow down.
This doesn't even include my part-time job, and my seminary calling that takes at least two hours a day.
I just call it LIFE...this is almost ridiculous!

The Value of Good Friends!

2010-01-31T19:25:00.000-08:00

My kids are really good about choosing good friends! Even friends that don't have the same standards or the same religion. But everyone of my children have told me that their friends don't ask them to do anything they shouldn't do. That is a good friend! That is the difference between a "good" friend and an acquaintance.

Tyler spoke about this in a recent talk he gave at a Stake Priesthood meeting. He spoke of going to school with 6 LDS members out of 2000 students. He spoke of it not being difficult because people knew his beliefs, and didn't expect him to change for them. That is the value of a good friend. Tyler talked about the support his non-member friends gave him on his mission. He spoke of the respect they gave him.

Laura the same... Christopher the same... and Cameron just started high school, so I assume it will be for him. At least I hope.

Their friends may not have the same values in some areas, BUT how grateful I am one, that my kids don't judge them, and two, their friends don't judge mine.

And then there are the friends who do have the same religion, the same values, and the same goal to someday serve a mission.
And that is what I am grateful for today...

When Tyler was twelve we moved over to Kernersville, and Tyler, Chris Rice and Jason Hansen instantly became friends. It was a blessing.
It has been such a fun two years watching as each of these boys have served the Lord, and grown so much. Listening to the funny stories, the difficult situations, the struggles and watching as they had faith to go on. They were in different parts of the world, but they really helped each other knowing each of them were out there doing the best they could do. I know it had a major impact on Tyler's mission.
Jason was the last to come home and he arrived this past Thursday night. It was a sweet reunion for them and they have been waiting patiently for him so they can FINALLY work(baptize) with their other great friend Michael Bolin :)
They spent the day here today, and the house was back to it's normal state with laughter, and ballgames, and LOTS of food! It was a good day.

I once heard a talk when Tyler was a baby that each night in your family prayers ask that your children will choose their friends carefully, they will start catching on to what you are really asking for...
We have done that for 20 years each time we prayed... we also prayed for 20 years that they will marry a good person... we will wait on that one for now :)

This picture makes me happy!

Jason served in New Delhi India(alittle history too... he and his companion were the first two missionaries called to the New Delhi India mission.) Jason is one of the most humble young men I have ever been around and glad he could make history for that mission! Can't wait to hear more of his stories!
Chris Rice served in Sofia Bulgaria... I LOVE this kid! And of course Tyler... in his basketball shorts... some things NEVER change:)

Micheal Bolin... who doesn't even have a chance! These guys are returned and READY!
Along with Corey Coon who was their great young men's president, and I feel had a great influence on them as well.

The Temple...

2010-01-27T18:37:00.000-08:00

I'm trying so hard to do better about my blog and keeping my "online journal" going... but it is HARD! I live a WAY to busy life, and goals this year haven't provided a lot of extra time. I AM going to do better! I want to publish this thing one day and look back at what our life was like.

I wanted to post something in December about this post... but forget about that one, I barely survived December!

So this leads me to this...
I LOVE THE TEMPLE!

In December of 1999 we received our very own temple in Raleigh, we were thrilled!
And we just celebrated 10 years of having one so close. I have special memories of this temple and I am so grateful for it.
I remember walking with my little family through the open house and the feeling I had as I explained to my children the importance of it's beauty and symbolism.
I remember being with my entire family(Baughan side) at the dedication and how we felt being together.
I have warm feelings of being on the temple grounds with my little family, just on random trips to Raleigh.
I have a very special place for the night that my Dad was set apart by President Hinckley and given the very special gift of being able to seal families together and the thought of that gives me chills, knowing the importance of that sacred ordinance.
I was fortunate that very night to sit in a very personal setting with my family with President Hinckley standing literally 3 feet in front of us, telling the grandchildren to "be good", to "be good all their lives", and as he looked around at the 15 grandsons in our family, he told them to "serve missions, and serve with honor." Cameron was four. Christopher was 8 and Tyler was 11.
I remember leaving that night and Barry saying, "it must be difficult to speak and probably always feel like you have to say something important". He was speaking of Pres. Hinckley speaking to the grandchildren. But it wasn't so much what he said, but how he spoke to them, and how the room felt.
It was sweet.
The thrill for me that night was sitting beside Sister Hinckley and she held my hand and I was able to tell her my love for her and the gratitude I have for her devotion to the gospel, and her husband. It was one of the top highlights of my life to be able to talk with her.

But with these experiences, that I know are a chance of a lifetime, the greatest memories were just simply going. I set a goal, and I reached it in 2009.
I LOVED my monthly Temple dates. They were with Barry, they were with my girlfriends, who are GREAT temple goer's some even go two or three times a month. They are great examples, and influences on me. But some of my most memorable are when I would get in the car on a weekday morning, put on good music and go by myself.
It was exactly what I needed each time.

I love that my son loves the temple. He and his friend Chris went a couple of weeks ago, something they just wanted to do!
That warmed my heart.
I hope he will always love the temple as he does now.

2009 was a very stressful year, it was for so many... it was evident in how Raleigh Temple attendance shot up like crazy! Packed sessions every time we went!
Stress played a huge part of my year like others, and I am so grateful that the temple was other than home, the one place I could "forget the world."
And I did!

I love that the temple brings us closer to the other side, that we feel of our Father's love for us there, and that we feel a little closer to him while there.
I have had tender, special moments in the temple, too personal to write, or share, but these are the special feelings that remind me who I am and the importance of my life here, and my service here on earth.

I LOVE the Temple!

Reports and Gratitude.

2010-01-08T18:15:00.000-08:00

Three missionaries from our stake reported to the High Council this week. All friends who have known each other and have been friends for years. It was a wonderful night! Kenny Amacher served in Baton Rouge LA and was in the Spanish speaking area. Tyler of course Mexico and spoke Spanish, but the thrill for me was to hear Chris Rice who served in Bulgaria BEAUTIFULLY bear his testimony in this very difficult language!
President Baier read letters that each mission president had written him regarding each of these young men. (Thanks President Hansen for the very heart-felt letter for Tyler!)
Each served very diligent and through obedience returned with honor.
It is amazing to hear the details of Chris' mission. There were a total of 70 missionaries in the entire mission of Bulgaria, and after this last group left they are down to 55. They only dream of having stakes in this country, they really only have branches. Language is difficult, organized religion is laughed at and regarded as cults that eat their babies! No kidding :)
In the letter Pres. Baier read about Chris from his mission president, it praised him, and said "this mission is not for the faint of hearts and only for strong, great future leaders". No doubt!
Chris and Tyler have been best friends since we moved to K'ville 10 years ago. I am so proud of Chris!
Kenny served with honor and too had a wonderful letter that spoke highly of him. He did wonderful things in Louisiana. I am proud of him as well.
I couldn't help but think of how these missions have "molded" these young men, and they are so much better for having served with honor.
It took me back to a letter I read last year on a mission blog from a missionary who was serving in South America(I think Uruguay), and the mission was having a conference and one of the apostles was visiting. I can't remember which one for sure, so I am not going to put it in print.
At the beginning of the meeting the visiting apostle said "he felt inspired that one of the missionaries needed to ask him a question". No one replied.
At the end of his talk, he again asked if someone needed to ask him a question. It was then that a sister missionary said to him " I always wanted to serve a mission and when I received my call I could not believe that I would only be going a small distance from my home to serve,why did I not go further away". She and all the missionaries were told the process that goes into calling a missionary to the area in which they will serve, and then he told her... "you are called to the place you are to serve for reasons that the Lord has for you".
I know this, and believe this! If my child were called to serve in NC, I would know that there are reasons for this.
Listening to the experiences of these young men the other night, there is no doubt they were called to serve for reasons, only the Lord knows.
Chris Rice had no baptisms his entire mission... but his attitude and obedience caused him to go away and say, "these were my best two years!"
He was told that he may not ever see the fruits of his labors until the veil has parted... and he planted great seeds, that I know for sure.
Tyler and Elder Minetto were serving together in Xalapa when an investigator told them, "I feel I knew you in the pre-existence and you told me you would find me".
It was at that point Tyler and Elder Minetto fully realized how very important their role was.
I feel Tyler served in Veracruz for many different reasons. He made eternal friendships there. One lady called our home last year and said Tyler was "her angel".
Missionaries are angels in many ways.
It was really cute the other night, because each missionary spoke of their love for their mission president, and I thought we were going to have a debate over who had the best, because each of them said "I had the best", "no I had the best"!
Another reason I feel Tyler served in Veracruz... both of his mission presidents. President Johnson would call him just to see how he was doing at the beginning, and knew he had some difficult situations in his area. He and Sister Johnson were very loving to him.
And everyone who reads the blog knows my feelings for the Hansen's! I feel Tyler really needed them! They have been wonderful to him, and all of their missionaries.
They have been a blessing in Tyler's life in so many ways, and this is another reason I feel he was called to serve in Veracruz and another reason to express my gratitude.
As parents were we able to bear our testimonies as well, and I am most grateful for the opportunity Tyler had to serve. He chose to go on his own. He chose to be obedient, he chose to do his best. He had rough times, missions are not easy!
He had times he had to rely on the Lord, and I am grateful.
Barry said in his testimony the other night, "there are many people who are much better men, and better fathers than me, whose sons choose not to go, and I am just glad Tyler chose to go and serve." I too think this.We are not perfect, we are not the perfect parents, but how grateful I am that Tyler gave this opportunity to our family.
I am grateful for the support of family and friends whose prayers sustained Tyler through his mission. He felt this love and support, and will never forget it.
It has been a good two years for our family. I hope Christopher and Cameron will have the opportunity to serve missions and have the wonderful experiences that Tyler had.
I would only hope they will be as fortunate to have a President and a "mission mom" like the Johnsons, and Hansens! Maybe the Hansens can just keep serving for 8 years ;)

Kenny with his "best mission president"!

Chris with his "best mission president"!

Tyler with "THE BEST MISSION PRESIDENT"!

He's HOME!!!

2009-12-26T22:31:00.000-08:00

"My Best Two Years"

2009-12-01T05:33:00.000-08:00

I will just put a copy of his final email home, and hope I will not get in trouble :)
He is so private that I have had to be careful to put personal things he has said on this blog. BUT, I thought this was a good way to sum up his mission.

"Anyway, I really am grateful for my mission and the time that I have had to
serve the Lord. They have been the best two years of my life and I am surely not
regretting for doing it. I have learned so many things that I am going to use
throughout my life. Im grateful for the support that everyone has given me
through letters or through your simple prayers. I know that these small things
helped me get through the hard times of my mission. I love each one of you and I
cant wait to see you again on Thursday night.
Until Thursday,"

Will post more with pictures- thanks again to Elder Moyar!

He's Feelin' Trunky!

2009-11-23T20:14:00.000-08:00

Finally our first email saying that he is starting to get trunky! They watched the "The Best Two Years" today, and he said that really hit him and he was excited to get home to see all of his family, and watch sports, and he added, "that is just how I am" meaning, he is ready for his sports!
He and Elder Moyar have really had a great few weeks, and he is ending his mission in a fantastic way. I received pictures from President Hansen, and a note telling me they are setting a record in their area. Tyler never tells me anything like this, so this was great to hear.
They are a great companionship!
His letter today told us that he rode another donkey, and this is how he told the story.
"This week I rode a donkey again. But this time I actually rode it and went on a
little 15 yard trip. It was hilarious. I have it on video. I started going and I
didnt know how to drive a donkey and we were in the middle of the street. I see
a big truck coming and I didnt know what to do and then the donkey just stopped
right in the middle of the road on the yellow line. I was so nervous that the
donkey was going to go backwards and then we were both going to get hit by the
truck . The donkeys owner started running over there shouting my little donkey
dont move little donkey. Ill just have to show you the video when i get home in
9 days."
Can't wait to see that one! But I'm wondering, did the man care about Tyler?!
A couple of weeks ago they baptized a man whose wife left him and he is raising his 9 and 7 year old sons. He barely has any money to feed them, and he wanted to change his life so he could be a better father. He had to make a drastic life change, but felt like this was the answer to what he has been looking for.
His sons are Alexander and Jimmy- yeah, Jimmy! Not your typical Spanish name.
The youth in the ward are really helping them and love to go out with the missionaries, I know Tyler really enjoys this.
Here are a few pictures, thanks to Elder Moyar and the donkey ones are from President and Sister Hansen- thanks!!!

P-Day spent at the ruins.

When I first saw this I thought it was Tyler and Elder Moyar bungie jumping. The white shirts threw me!

Tyler with Elder Moyar, who has become a great friend!

Here with Elder Garcia

Here at the baptism of Alberto and Jimmy

Here is Alexander who was upset because he wanted to get baptized too! When Jimmy was in the water, Alexander ran up to the font and screamed, "no he can't swim!"
They calmed him with cookies!

0 to Go!

2009-11-03T09:23:00.001-08:00

Their Baptism with Jesus. His brother baptized him.

Would this guy not make you laugh everyday?!!!

Tyler usually begins his letter at the end or beginning of the month with how many down, how many to go, our email this week was no different.
Except it had the nice little 0 at the end. It was his last Fast and Testimony Meeting in Mexico!
He spent it in Vega de la Torre, at the smaller "House of Prayer" because they have another investigator there, which is getting baptized this week, and he is excited because they will baptize in the ocean! I think he has always wanted to do that while being there, but has not been in an area for it.
They did baptize a 12 year old boy named Jesus last week, and his mom and brother were baptized a couple of weeks ago. They are a good family, and Elder Moyar's blog has a good story about their conversion.

Sad news this week from him was that their greenie left the mission. He said he just couldn't do it anymore. He got really depressed and started being very negative.
Tyler and Elder Moyar really tried to help him, but he was just really having a difficult time.
So as Tyler said, he has "killed" two early (remember the first one went off and got married :)), and Elder Moyar has killed three early....
Are they working them to death?
But it looks like in the picture E. Moyar cracks the whip on them!
And that is good :)

Does he want to come home at all?

2009-10-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

Elder Moyar and this is just one classic picture I found of him!

Tyler is so happy I am not sure he wants to come home! But having Elder Moyar and Castillos as companions is making it more tempting to stay and helping him not be trunky.
He really likes his area in Martinez. They actually have two areas there and he goes over to Vega de Torre on Sundays to the "House of Prayer" ( it is smaller than a branch).
Elder Moyar is from Payson Utah, and is hilarious. I found his blog and cannot stop laughing. Tyler said in his letter that Elder Moyar just keeps him laughing everyday.
I don't doubt that at all after reading his letters on his blog!

Elder Castillos is from Mexico and he is a brand new missionary at the age of 23.
Mexican elders can go on their mission at the age of 18, so he is an older missionary. Tyler said he is a humble, laid back guy but a good missionary that has had a really rough past. He was a member of a gang, and I am sure Tyler and Elder Moyar are really hearing some interesting stories. Tyler really wants him to do well on his mission, and he can see alot of potential in him.
They had a baptism their first week together, and Elder Castillo baptized her, so Tyler said he is hoping that will be a good start for him and get him going.

He really doesn't even talk about coming home, and I am glad that he is not thinking of that so much. He told me he would give 100 percent until the end, and it sounds like he is.
So thrilled he is happy!

Leaving Xalapa with a BANG! And he is going "to die" in Martinez de la Torre

2009-10-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

****DISCLAIMER---the "he's on fire" saying in this post is not a bragging quote, but to tell you he doesn't want to give up, not trunky, and not ready to come home.
I HAVE SOME TOUGH CRITICS THAT DO NOT ALLOW ME BRAG ON THIS BLOG!!!!

What a couple of weeks Tyler has had! Two weeks ago they had two baptisms, and this past week four! He was so very pleased with all of them, but felt like the last week the four that they baptized are "really going to be good members and help in the church".
Elder Judd joined them last week, because his companion went to the office, and Tyler said "it has been the most fun he has had on his mission".
He really enjoyed being with Elder Judd again (last time they were in the office together).
He said the baptism last week of the four was really sweet and the three of them even sang. One of the new members played a hymn on his guitar and Tyler said that was really good. One of the new members is playing the piano at church on Sunday now.
He was so happy, and so happy in Xalapa, that when he wrote us last week that he was leaving, I was a little worried about getting a down letter this week.... BUT NO WAY, this boy is on fire, and his heart is in the right place. He is going to Martinez de la Torre, and it is HOT there! Over 100 degrees last week. And the area is new to missionaries, and is a small town. But he is very excited to get there he said.
His companion is Elder Moyar from Utah. Tyler really likes him and says that he is really funny and a really good missionary. He is also going to train a "greenie" so it will be the three of them for awhile.... and of course he will "die" (mission terms)in Martinez de la Torre and will return to the arms of his mother!
He is so happy, and loves his mission so much, I sometimes feel guilty wanting him home, but am so grateful for everything he has experienced.
I know he will miss it too.

Here are a few pictures of the baptisms this past week.

Missionaries We Love!

2009-09-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

No new pictures of Tyler, but he is still sending great emails, and really focusing on his time left. They are working with a few people, and one really good lady, whose husband joined the church in Canada.
He loves Xalapa, and the people there, but if the members took you to the country club to play tennis, have their housekeepers cook for you in your "mansion", and treat you like this, you would love this area too!
The members are so good to them there.
He told us about zone conference last week, where he and Elder Minetto had to teach a lesson on getting commitments and how to "ask". They got a little creative, got Sister Hansens' purse and pretended like they were a couple and the guy was asking a girl on a date. Well, this is the boy that said "I am not dating until after my mission, because why would I want to waste my money on someone elses' wife!"
Yep, not much of a dater.
But they were showing how to approach people the correct way.
I so wish I had a picture of this!

Here are some pictures we have received lately of some of our favorite missionaries.
Elder Chris(Bulgaria) sent us some in his letter, but I can not get them to open up, but I am so excited to see them. He is always having fun!

This is my cousin's son Derek leaving for Uruguay. Going out into the "unknown"
He will be great!

Here is Derek with his mom Sheila, and Meagan,and Colby.
Sunglasses needed... wish I would have thought of that!

Here is Elder Dallin(Anaheim CA) with children in his area. Little children always love the missionaries! And of course Dallin!

Here is Elder Jason(New Delhi India) with his new friend- Cobra-YIKES!

Elder Jason with a precious family. He is back out as a "normal" missionary now, and loves it. He is teaching seminary and institute now and loves that too!

Indian men and let's just say "Peace Out"

Elder Zach Buehner(Bangalore India) at a sweet moment on his mission.

We love hearing about all the missionaries we love!

Just a Glimpse...

2009-09-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

I sure hope President and Sister Hansen don't mind me taking from their blog, but I get a small glimpse of what it is like for the missionaries in Veracruz by looking on their blog, and boy is it ever inspiring!

In President Hansen's words:
"On May 26, Elder Oscar de Jesus Ortiz Bustamonte was set apart to serve a full time mission in the Mexico Cuernavaca Mission. It is the top baptizing mission in Mexico. Elder Ortiz is from San Andres in the Los Tuxtlas District. He has been serving as branch clerk and will be a blessing to his mission president. He is pictured with his aunts, mom, sister, and dad. The family is basically not active, but have returned to a degree of activity as Elder Ortiz has prepared for his missionary service. The women all wept in the short testimony meeting we held before the setting apart, and could not talk. The dad was brave and the missionary tried to be. His mission is a long way away to these folks. They have no car and don't often leave Los Tuxtlas. Cuernavaca is about 8 hours from their home, but that is two years and one world away. He is the first missionary from the family and is a convert of about 3 years. The other young men are friends from his ward and Elder Page, North Carolina, who served in the area."

If only Elder Ortiz could find our "Mexican family"-Goya's family, that we love in Cuernavaca!
Maybe Tyler told him about them, or maybe he can write Elder Ortiz and give him her address. Goya always loved Tyler, so maybe she would listen to the missionaries if they know him-- I hope so!

Tyler's companion Elder Minetto leading this sweet young girl into the water.
I Love this picture!

Elder Minetto giving her instructions, and I am quite sure calming any fears.

And of course... who wouldn't want this sweet lady taking care of their son!
I know she makes an impact on not only the missionaries in Veracruz, but the sweet, good people who live there too.
We love Hermana Hansen!

Baptisms in Xalapa!

2009-08-31T16:01:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from the baptisms in Xalapa with Elder Minetto.

And no need to worry about my boy getting trunky reading the days he has left... he doesn't read the blog. The ticker is for me!

100 DAYS !!!

2009-08-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we are down to 100 days, and now going into double digits!
Tyler is having the time of his life, working hard, and baptizing like C R A Z Y!
They baptized two young guys this past week... Ricardo, and Omar.
And working with a "a really good family" that was a referral from the counselor in the Stake. I LOVE when members are the missionaries too.
He is excited and if it wasn't for being right smack dab in the middle of football season when he comes home, I think he would want to stay.
Yep... my homesick, sports lovin son, would probably stay...
Miracles do happen!

ps. He promised pictures next time--YAY!

You Might Be A Redneck If....

2009-08-17T19:11:00.001-07:00

If you teach English to the Mexican Elders with a southern accent!
Tyler had a zone leader conference last week and President Hansen told them about a new program to help out the Elders that don't know English. He said their job is to teach them words they may not know, then said " just don't ask Elder Page... he is a redneck!" Tyler loved it! Of the 14 Elders in the meeting, 9 were American, so they knew exactly what he was saying, but the Spanish-speaking Elders, didn't understand. Tyler said it cracked them all up.

He loves learning from President Hansen. He wrote about the 2 hour lesson President gave them about the atonement and different perspectives of it.
He enjoys the time he gets to spend with him.

He has had a great couple of weeks, with Elder Minetto. They baptized Cuauhtemoc, the husband, and the wife Amalia and their neighbor Carmen.
So another family as he put it.
This past week he baptized Isabel, whose husband served a mission in Mexico,and lives in Greenville South Carolina,where his mother lives as well.
Tyler is hoping they will be sealed next year at this time, and if in SC he may be able to attend. I hope so for him!

Things on the home front... SCHOOL is gearing up!
Laura starts tomorrow, Christopher next Monday, and Cameron next Tuesday.
Exciting to get everyone going and especially Laura, who will get her degree(associates) and get started with her bachelors and then she says her masters... EXHAUSTING!!! We will see, she still has to decide where to get her bachelors at!
Too many decisions, but exciting ones!
All this and still works 25 hours a week, AND finds time to socialize-- that is the most important part, right???
Because of cutbacks at the Dr Jamison's office, she now enjoys 25 hours a week at COSTCO!!!
So glad she is organized and gets all this stuff in! AND she is now a counselor in the Relief Society Presidency in her ward, attends meetings, VT interviews, teaches, and so on and so on, and so on! WHEW, I'm exhausted thinking about it... good thing she is young!

Christopher decided to get his associates in Science, and then will decide a major, but he has plenty of time. He still is lifeguarding at the Y, and his favorite thing is to work with the camp kids. It is a great job for him.

Cameron is excited for high school. Tyler mailed each of the kids a letter, and in Cameron's gave good advice for high school, hope he listens to his brother!
He says he is not nervous, but we will see next week.

That's the low-down...

Never A Dull Moment! And "Olivia"???!

2009-08-05T10:14:00.001-07:00

This is at Dairy Queen, Elder Judd is now in this district too, and Tyler worked with him in the office, and they are great friends!

Elder Minetto, and his Iguana!(He caught at church!)

Tyler received a new companion last week, and in his words "there is never a dull moment"- this guy is hilarious! His name is Elder Tyler Minetto, and he is from Oregon- so an American-YAY!!!
Funny thing is I have read this guys blog for several months now after I googled "missionaries in Veracruz". His letters are SO funny- 2 weeks ago I mentioned in an email to Tyler that I found this guys blog, and did he know him.
The very next week, in his email to me was that this is his new companion!
I know Tyler will have fun with this guy, and Elder Minetto works hard, and has a strong testimony of missionary work, so I know he is a great missionary too!
Elder Minetto is more descriptive in his emails of "life on his mission", so I will learn about the area with his emails too.
This is Elder Minetto's first time as a zone leader, and came in with a bang! The very first night at 3:00 AM the phone rings, and he wakes up Tyler and said "Olivia is calling, and why is your girlfriend Olivia calling at 3 in the morning"!
Tyler said, It is the elders from the Olivo ward and their house has just flooded!
The ran over, and couldn't believe it, these elders were standing in waist high water, beds floating, along with all their belongings! Tyler said he just felt sick for these guys! They are fairly new Americans, with not much Spanish, and everything just washing away. They cleaned everything up, and all four went back to Tyler's apartment, until they could move into another one.
Welcome Elder Minetto into the world of zone leadership!
They did have a baptism last week and his name is Martin Jacome. His girlfriend was baptized several years ago by Brandon Zeller who is from our stake here in NC.
Small world this church is!
Tyler really feels good about Martin, and feels he will be a good member of the church.
He loves his life right now, he is so happy!
And good times are ahead!

They Rocked It!

2009-07-27T08:51:00.000-07:00

-I received this BEAUTIFUL picture by email this morning from Sister Hansen aka... the BEST mission mom EVER! It made my day!
President Hansen calls it "The Waters of Xalapa". I call it... look at these happy faces! And I loved looking at the new members faces and how they are holding on to their loved ones.
Sweet, sweet, sweet!
Thanks Hermana Hansen for making my day!

Now some fun with photobucket-- he really does think this... he really does! I KNOW HE DOES!!!

Missionaries Are ROCKIN Xalapa!

2009-07-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

Good letters from Tyler the past two weeks. He still loves the area, and still happy!
He feels he will get a new companion in the next couple of weeks, and it may be the last one he will get before he comes home--WOW, that is nice to say!
They have 7 companionships in the Xalapa zone, 5 companionships have baptisms scheduled for the same day! They are really trying to help the other companionships so it can be 100%. So they are having a day of baptisms all together. What a day!
He is excited because his is a family. He said in his letter, he loves to baptize a family together.
He is working hard, and achieving goals, and staying happy, and healthy(yay!)

We got this cute picture of Elder Chris from Bulgaria, and a sweet email.
He is happy, and working against the odds, he is loving his mission. This is a very difficult mission, and of course, Elder Chris knows how to make the best of it!

A Centenarian In The Family!

2009-07-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

Barry's Grandpa Aldridge hit a MAJOR milestone last week. On July 16th, he turned 100years old! This great man is full of history, and LOVES to talk about it!
He sat and talked to over 250 people for 3 hours (talk about your stamina!), and says that "he doesn't know why the Lord has kept him on earth this long, but he must have a reason to be here". He is here to teach us, and be a wonderful example of integrity, hard work, kindness, and his love for his family, especially his love for his Daisy, who passed away a few years ago.

His testimony is strong, his love for the Lord is without exception, and we are so grateful for his life!

We love you Grandpa Curry!!!

Judy and Mack Bingham(family friends) made this beautiful rocking chair for Grandpa, from a birch tree that was on the Aldridge Farm (Brannock Place), and Mr. Bingham first saw this tree in the 70's. It had Grandpa's name and birthday inscribed in it. It fell in 2005, and only a limb was saved, the rest was hollow. This chair was made from that limb. What thoughtful people! Thanks Mack and Judy Bingham-what a family heirloom!

(click on the picture to read)

A Good Week for Tyler, and Another Baughan Missionary in the World!

2009-06-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

My cousin Roger's son Derek (Mooresville NC) received his mission call last week to Uruguay! He will be a great missionary! The times that I have been around him he is so sweet, and HUMBLE! He will love the South American people in that beautiful country! Way to go Derek! He leaves for the Argentina Mission home in September.
We are thrilled for him!

Tyler's letter started as it does the end of each month... 19 months down...5 more to go! I can't believe I can count on one hand how many months he has left.
He is making it the best months of his mission, and has set some great goals.
He was actually sick last week, and said one day he had to stay in (the need to be by a bathroom every 20 minutes!) And he said he was SO bored! He hated it.
He really likes his companion, and LOVES Xalapa and the ward, and their love for the missionaries.
He baptized a 16 year old girl Alma Rosa, who is from a part member family, and they are baptizing a couple of people this week Graciela(I love that name!) and her son Aldo, and they were referrals, so the members there are so helpful.

Trek, and Kasey is Home!!!

2009-06-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Our stake does a "pioneer trek" every four years, and this year Cameron was able to go. They asked the single adults to go and be apart of the "families" so Laura, Christopher, and Cameron all were there together. They had a great time, and it was a rough terrain this time with more hills, and a lot of mud! So I was proud of the youth and the youth leaders in our stake for the great job they did.
Grandma and Grandpa Page started out, but Grandpa had an incident and ended up at Duke! Thank goodness he is okay, and they are still running tests. But he sure did give a lot of people a scare!

Later this week, our nephew Kasey came home from Pusan Korea after serving two years faithfully. We are so happy to have you home Kasey, but seeing you, just REALLY made me miss Tyler more! Congratulations on a mission WELL DONE!

And our letter from Tyler this week was one of my all time mission favorites! He is so happy!!! He LOVES Xalapa, and he said the ward is great! They average about 130 a week, the members are very missionary driven, and help the missionaries so much.
The weather is cool, he even asked for a sweater and long sleeve shirts!
He loved having Elder Grow of the Seventy there for a visit, he said he learned so much from him.
On that note, I received a very sweet email from Sister Hansen complimenting Tyler on his presentation at this conference. That meant so much to Barry and me. She amazes me!

And since he does not read the blog, I can put this sweet note he wrote at the end of his letter, and I won't get fussed at!
"I want to wish you a Happy Fathers day too.
Im glad to be your son and grandson. Im so thankful for the example that you
have given me and I hope I can live up to the expectations that you have set for
me. I love you. Ill talk to you next week.
Love,
Tyler

Missionaries We Love, and A New One!

2009-06-15T20:43:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Matthew(I could not find a picture of just YOU!)who just graduated and will go to BYU this summer and then leave for his mission in October to Tuscan Arizona!!! He will fall in love with the Spanish speaking people, who will treat him so well, and of course they will love that BIG SMILE of his
We love you Matt and way to go!

Elder Dallin in Anaheim with his companion Elder Song, who just went home to Korea, and just HAPPENS to be in my nephew Kasey's ward now-talk about your small world! Kasey said Elder Song's English is "off the charts for a Korean". So I know Kasey enjoyed being able to speak English for a little while!
Speaking of Elder Kasey--see you next week, and can't wait!

Elder Jason in Pakistan, where he "LOVES it there" and the people. He said "the members of the church are so humble, and hard working, and have the strongest testimonies". Elder Jason will be the "oldest" missionary in the mission after his president leaves in July.... so he has to stay on to help train the new president! funny huh? But has learned so much from being able to just travel throughout the mission, which includes Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, and his mission is New Delhi India!
He must be exhausted!

Speaking of India... Elder Zach Buehner loving his mission!

HE DID IT!!!

2009-06-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

Christopher graduated on Saturday and what a weekend! We are proud of him, and decisions he has made. We love you Bubba!
They had their commencement at 6 pm on Saturday, so we decided to have a "family get-together" on Sunday afternoon. It is always fun for family and friends to come celebrate, and yesterday was no exception. I can't believe my next graduation will be in four years! That seems like a long ways away, but unfortunately, it will go by way to fast!
Just a few picures from the weekend.

"The Mormon Seniors,(Ian, Natalie,Chris, and Amanda) and Junior Marshall Calvin

"Biting his Mama"- this how he shows his love!

Cameron leaves Middle School with a bang!

2009-06-12T10:04:00.000-07:00

Cameron with Ms. Howe, yes, this is his crush!

Cameron with Ms. Day

Cameron with Mrs. Corbett

Cameron and Mrs. Long

Cameron and Mrs. Norris... the sweetest teacher ever!
He was so blessed to have this awesome group of teachers, that loved my boy!

Cameron getting his science award

He received one of three awards, voted by his peers, and teachers for the "Citizenship Award", which is a high honor!

WARNING....I am emotional,so this may be too dramatic for some of you(meaning my 2 sisters-in-law!)
Today we graduated our baby Cameron from 8th grade, I was not prepared... and especially the day before Christopher graduates from high school. I was actually fine until the chorus sang "Like An Eagle", which is played at every high school graduation of my kids, and the words are very dramatic, and I thought I would share.

Like An Eagle
Carl Strommen

Now is the time
To follow the wind
To walk alone

And a star will show the way
Above the clouds
Beyond the sea

And now is the time
And now and farewell
And as we part

You taught me well
You gave me strength
You showed the way
I'll not forget you

Like an eagle I will soar above the clouds
I will spread my wings and fly into the sun
Like an eagle I will race above the stars

I will fly to places yet unseen
Go beyond my wildest dreams
Know that you are watching over me

And all alone
I will follow the stars above
As my guide

As my guide
I trust in you
To show the way to me
Beyond the sea

And now is the time
And now and farewell
And as we part

You taught me well
You gave me strength
You showed the way
I'll not forget you

Like an eagle I will race above the stars
I will spread my wings and fly into the sun
Like an eagle I will race above the stars

I will fly to places yet unseen
Go beyond my wildest dreams
Know that you are watching over me

Alone, I can fly with the eagle to the mountain high
Race with the eagle so far beyond my dreams
Like an eagle I will fly

Like an eagle I will race above the stars
I will spread my wings and fly into the sun
Like an eagle I will soar above the clouds

I will fly to places yet unseen
Go beyond my wildest dreams
Know that you are watching over me

Like and eagle I will race above the stars
Like an eagle I will fly
Like an eagle I will fly

I'm gonna fly the highest mountain
(Fly)
Fly above the clouds
Like an eagle I will fly

Like I said in the last post, I am NOT digging this growing up and leaving thing! But without making this a "bragger blog", we are so very happy with all the good our children have chosen to do in their lives. They are not perfect, because they don't have a perfect mother, but they are good, and they are good to others, and that is all I ever hoped for.

They will fly away, and when they do, as some already have, they can always come home to land.

See why I am emotional today!
I found it on YouTube if you want to hear it
(read the words)

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A New Home for Tyler! The home of the jalapeno pepper!

2009-06-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

Pico de Orizaba the highest mountain in Mexico, and a volcano. This is the view Tyler will see from Xalapa!(well he is a little further away than this). When we lived in Cuernavaca, his bedroom window faced another volcano, Popocatépetl. What a beautiful view to see each day!

Tyler's last week in the office, and then he is off to Xalapa! He is so excited about this. He said it was his "dream place"! It is the second largest city in Veracruz, and the weather is like "North Carolina spring", he said. You can't beat that! And it is the home of the jalapeno pepper, a little trivia for ya! Xalapa is pronounced Ha-la-pa if you care to know. His new companion will be Elder Martinez and he leaves the mission in September.
He is so grateful for his time with the Elders in the mission office, and of course President and Sister Hansen, who I just can't praise enough! I know he will miss his daily contact with them. He has learned so much from them all.
He is hoping to baptize the grandson of Reyna Mendoza the lady they baptized last week. He is supposed to come to church tomorrow and hopefully set a date.
I hope he can before he leaves.
They went to the "hill cumorah" today as an office, so he enjoyed that and sent these pictures.
Another good week, and thanks "office group" for taking care of my baby!

Tyler on top of the "hill cumorah"

The Office Group

Sacrifice Island- I love this picture!

A Good Week, and My Seminary Graduate!

2009-06-01T09:45:00.000-07:00

Barry and I watched our 3rd child graduate from Seminary last night, and it was tender! I am not digging this "letting your children go" thing!
Of course, I did not bring my camera, so I don't have it documented with pictures.
But as always, it was a sweet graduation ceremony. They recite their favorite scripture, and Christopher was teasing us that he was going to recite the famous "wife submit yourself unto your husband" scripture, but Barry and I were standing there sweating, under our breath saying "please recite Joshua 1:9,(he chose that one too), please oh please and...... he did! You see, we sweat when Chris gives a talk, or bares his testimony, or opens his mouth! We NEVER know what is going to come out! He is very funny, and a lady in church actually said to me " I wish your son would bare his testimony every month, because he makes me happy"
Sweet, BUT I sit on the edge of my seat every time he does!
But he does make us laugh, and that is one of my favorite traits of his.
We are proud of his accomplishments, and glad he could have the opportunity to study seminary for 4 years.
Tyler had a good week, and is "enjoying his last couple of weeks in the office" as he put it. Speaking of blessings, the relationship he has with his Mission President and his "Mission Mom" has been a great blessing for him, along with learning so much while working so closely with the other Elders.
The entire office had baptisms this past weekend! Which has not happened in two years Tyler said, so they were very excited about that.
Tyler and Elder Lopez baptized Reyna Mendoza and Tyler feels really good about her and how she will be a good member of the church. Her grandson wanted to baptized as well, but he is waiting.
Tyler's letters are funny because he writes in English they way he speaks in Spanish, so it sounds so confusing! I did notice on Mother's Day he speaks English with an accent, and sooooo fast!!! He had to repeat things several times, I couldn't keep up!
He says he is spending the next 6 months on taking advantage of giving 100%. It will be the only time that he will not be distracted from the "things of the world".
He also said he is excited to visit with Elder Grow, who is coming down this month for a leadership training. I know all the missionaries will enjoy that.
Here are a few pictures he sent this week.

This is him talking to ME!!!

P-day at the bowling alley, where he was the champ! "A casual 168" he said!

The baptisms of the office group

The baptism of Reyna Mendoza

2009-05-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU YMCA FOR EMPLOYING MY SON!
I hope he will be a good lifeguard for you, and will not be on his cell phone if he has to save a life.

A Good Week in Veracruz, and Is It Summer Yet?!

2009-05-24T16:42:00.000-07:00

The Multi-zone conference, and this is half of the Veracruz missionaries!

Scripture chase time at Zone Conference! If you look in the corner by the second window, you can see Tyler!

In front of the Olemca head that is in Santiago

Hermana Lilia and her family at the Temple after they were sealed.
I love this family for taking such good care of my boy!

Tyler had a good week last week, and said it is really heating up there. They had a multi zone conference this past week with half of the missionaries. He seemed to enjoy that. President H. has the new missionaries speak, and the ones getting ready to leave, he said he enjoyed that. They also have one of the secretaries in the office make a video of the incoming missionary, and then one for the outgoing missionaries. I really like that idea!
He said they are still working with the families, but a couple are having smoking issues. Hopefully they can resolve that. Tyler is hopeful.
He sounded really good, and he is enjoying his mission! He is excited to see where he will go next.

Around here, we are SO ready for the summer! May is one of the busiest months of the year for me, so I am READY! Seminary is now over, and the testing is out of the way, and now we are just ready to graduate, and move on to high school(Cameron).
The seniors had a busy week this week with their senior day (cookout, and party), and awards day, and Christopher was right up in there with the fun!
He is at the beach this weekend with one of his best friend's TJ's family. TJ's mom, Dee, loves Christopher's sarcasm, and his humor( it takes someone special to love it!)
Christopher has decided not to go to Idaho to school, and stay here and work on his general classes (yay!) I am a HUGE advocate of getting general or an associate degree like Laura is doing at a community school, and then moving on to a University. I have had several teachers at the high school tell me this is a great thing for the kids to do first. And I guess I am not alone in this thought, because a friend of mine who works at Forsyth Tech said their enrollment is up 22%!
Christopher has chosen to do this and I think he won't regret his choice.
Now, if we can just find him a summer job!
Laura is working hard to finish her degree, she had a great semester in school, and she works so hard in her job too! And STILL has time to socialize! I really love that she is here with us. She has a great group of friends, and they PLAY HARD!!! But they are really good for each other and do so many great things in the Single Adult Program.
Cameron is finishing his middle school years and ready for high school. He has really taken off with his trumpet and has decided to do this in high school too. He is musically talented and such a natural at it!
He LOVES being at home, and we love that he does! Barry and I never go out alone anymore, we love him coming along with us! He is so delightful to be around, I really hope these next four years don't go by so fast!
But I know they will.

A Grateful Missionary!

2009-05-18T14:17:00.000-07:00

Tyler had a good and very busy week this week. He said Monday all the missionaries that were leaving left at 10:00 AM and the native missionaries arrived at the VERY same time! So they shuffled them to their areas, only to be back at the airport at 7:00 PM to pick up the American missionaries! They brought them back to the office, had dinner and they were there until 12:30 AM with training meetings. I just felt bad for the new missionaries who left the MTC at 3 AM the morning before, getting in to this unfamiliar place and EXHAUSTED! Bless their hearts, they went in full force!
He was able to spend a few minutes with Elder Jordan Weaver, who his mother and I have become email buddies because of this mission, and I have been so excited for their family! They seem to be an awesome family from Utah, and Tyler said in his letter that "Elder Weaver is going to be a great missionary". Tyler was to give Elder Weaver a big hello from his mother when he arrived. I hope it was comforting, and it did not make him homesick!
So he said by Wednesday he was out doing the normal day to day things.
He did say that he would be a "real missionary" again next transfer. He is excited about getting back out, which shocked me some because of the luxuries(air conditioning) in the office. But he has really loved being around the Mexican people, and living among them. He has 4 baptisms on May 31st. Reyna (who he says looks just like his great-grandma Page)and her grandson Daniel. And than Rubi and Estela her daughter in law, who were taught 8 months ago, but never progressed with the discussions. Which I think is important for the missionaries to know that it is the seed they plant at the beginning, not always the baptism that is so important.
So a seed was planted and now they are ready! He feels really good about both families joining the church.
And he is sending a picture of this Mexican Great Grandma Page-- and I can't wait to see that one!!!
One of the most important things he said he has learned lately with being in the office, and out teaching, is how to balance everything.
He said President Hansen has taught them that this will teach them how to balance life, and how to keep focused on the important things that life brings to them.
Then he expressed his gratitude, and it is way to personal to print, but how I love that grateful heart of his!!!
And AGAIN... President Hansen rocks!

Elder Gonzales was our visiting General Authority at our Stake Conference this weekend, and last year he and Elder Bednar visited the missionaries in Veracruz. So I couldn't help but to think that he was with Tyler since I have been with Tyler-that made me smile! Tyler really enjoyed his visit too.
I really enjoyed him here, he was very personal on Saturday evening and opened it up to questions and everything. I enjoyed that.
But I REALLY enjoyed Sunday sitting with Barry after 4 and 1/2 years of not, and my La La, who goes to the singles ward, she was with us too.
So it was a good weekend.

Whoa... this picture is for each of you mothers with sons!

2009-05-11T14:33:00.000-07:00

Click on this if you cannot read the description of the painting above.

This picture cracks me up! Beware of that pork!!!

Looky, looky what I got in the mail today!!! Along with a sweet letter from Tyler, his "mission mom" wrote a personal one too! One thing he did say on the phone yesterday was how much he loves them.
This picture is exactly how I must have looked at the airport, except that I was balling, yes, I did... I balled when he left!
A good friend of mine whose son's are grown and married once said to me and I have felt the same way, "when you send them out, you give them back to the Lord."
And I have learned that you both go with faith.
Thanks Tyler, and President and Sister Hansen! And can you even imagine being the mother of 220 missionaries like she is right now! Talk about your angel!

Just Words....

2009-05-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

Because I am very, very tired, and emotional drained, and have a sweet little gig at 7 AM with 21 High School students every morning, and I STILL have to work on that, it is just words and no pictures with this post.

If you know me well, or ever been to my home, you should know... I LOVE QUOTES! I have them hanging everywhere, but mainly in my hall, which Tyler's middle school friends(a group of girls, boys would never say this), gave it the name "the inspiration wall".And my favorite quotes usually make me think of the people I love.
One of favorite quotes is from Abraham Lincoln and I couldn't have a better quote for my mom than this:
"All that I am and hope to be, I owe to my Angel Mother"
The great thing is that Barry can ditto this as well.

We have been influenced by two of the most unselfish women I know.
The influence has made it's way down to the next generation too.
They are angels.
I could give many examples, but the things they do are etched in our hearts and the hearts of many around them and both of them are not the kind of women who desire their actions to be placed for people to see, they just simply do.
We are very blessed to have them in our lives, and are grateful we can call them our Mother.

Lately I have reflected on all that Mother's do, and my thoughts have been on several of my friends who are single mothers. They are my heroes!
I have watched several of my friends over the years in different circumstances(that most of the time they didn't ask for) and I stand in awe at the work they do as mothers. I know they may not get the appreciation now for their efforts, but I know one day they will.

And of course, my day that I have waited for for 137 days... my sweet boy and his sweet voice! He is so happy, and it reflected in this phone call. We chatted about so much in just that one hour time! And I can't believe that is the last time I will speak to him and then he is home, in which his emotions are so mixed about this too.
He loves his mission, he loves the people of Mexico, and he is grateful. I love his grateful heart!

Now for the quote that I see everynight before I close my eyes...
" I count it a PRIVILEGE to kiss my children GOODNIGHT at the close of everyday"

It is GREAT and a PRIVILEGE to be the mother of Tyler, Laura, Christopher and Cameron!
And nothing in the world could ever be greater!
Happy Mother's Day to all of the great Mother's who have influenced my life in so many ways.

Making President Hansen a Tarheel, missionaries in the Jungle?No swine flu for these missionaries, and Prom!

2009-05-04T12:26:00.000-07:00

Making President Hansen a Tarheel fan, and PROUD Tyler of his team!

This makes me want to shout out "welcome to the jungle" in song! They are actually at a wild life reserve.(They were told to paint their faces.) Click on this one to make it larger. INTERESTING!

Chris here with his friends Jeff and Michael going to Prom.

Chris with his BFF Kristen and her sister Meagan and her date Matt.

Chris and Kristen- they are great friends, and had a great time because they are such good friends. They are so funny together too! She is from such a great family. We are so glad he has chosen such good friends to hang out with!

I was really glad to get a "healthy" update from Tyler this week. In case you have been out of "the loop" they think that this whole swine flu started from a pig farm in VERACRUZ! So, keeping the faith, and trying not to worry, they are all okay. He said they didn't have church on Sunday, but were going to have their own, but they were bascially obeying the President of Mexico who made that call.
He was disappointed because Elder Grow of the Seventy was coming in last week, and he couldn't fly into the country. He was looking forward to hearing him at their meetings.
The big group of missioaries that were coming in have to wait until next week to come down, so things are just changing with travel mostly, not teaching.
Hna. Lilia(his Mexican mom) and her family were sealed last week in the Veracruz Temple. He was so excited for them! He went over and actually got to see them and the 2 Elders that baptized their family came to Veracruz for the sealing, so Tyler enjoyed meeting them too.
On Wednesday he had to make a 5 hour trip south and he saw a couple of his converts in Santiago. He said they are doing really well, and said he was real happy to see that. Thursday morning, the mission van died, and Tyler said it was a blessing that they made it home safe from the long drive the night before. They did not get home until 9:30. But if the van would have died on the way home, it could have been unsafe. I am grateful they made it home safely! Tyler expressed his gratitude too.
Sounded like another good week. Of course next post I can tell you what we TALKED about, not just an email!!! I am so excited to talk to him.

Why I stalk President and Sister Hansen's blog!

2009-04-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Not only are they the greatest to Tyler, they have the greatest blog! Barry and I check in weekly to see if they have updates, and they did not disappoint this week!
I honestly think they should write a book with all the inspirational stories they share on their blog when they get home. What a great way to journal their mission, and a great way for them to share their mission with their family.
I want to share, two of the stories that they shared.

The little lady is 94 year old Delfina Salcedo Reyes.
Before the service, the missionaries were taking the traditional pre-baptism photos. After they were done, Hna. Delfina, who doesn't see well, walked closer to this painting of the First Vision. She touched it with her hands and began to weep, her tears coursing silently down her cheeks. Such is the testimony of this sweet grandmother. How stong are her feelings about the Restoration! Reverently and respectfully, Elder Olvera snapped the second picture.

Renewed, after her baptism she handed her cane to her daughter and said, "I don't need this anymore" and walked all the way home

After a special interview in Orizaba, we gave the elders a ride to another appointment. It was at the home of a little man named José Luís Amezcua. We met him and we heard his testimony. His story is really something special.

The missionaries had a referral from the bishop to look a less active for a named Luis. They had a bad address, but people seemed to know him and they were directed to a pink house on a back street. They found the house. The lady of the house invited them in. She said that Luis was not there, but that José Luis was. They offered her a message. She brushed them off but pointed to little José Luis and said that he is always talking about God. So, he invited them into his very humble little home which was next door. The missionaries are Elder Galvan from Acapulco and Elder Hunter from Riverton.

They sat down and began to visit. José Luís told them that his mother died about a year earlier. No one helped him. The churches didn't help him find solace. He had prayed often and cried in the night. In desperation he prayed again one night, not knowing what else to do. A voice came to him and said, "No te preocupes. Te mandaré lo que necesitas. No me pides más." "Don't worry. I will send you what you need. You don't have to ask me again." Then he dreamed a dream and saw a man, a gringo.

While we were in his little house, he recounted the story for us, pointed at Elder Hunter and said, "That night I his your face in my dream. He was wearing that brown tie and those brown pants." They taught him the gospel. His baptismal date was set for March 28th.

SEE WHY I STALK THEIR BLOG! THEY HAVE THE BEST STORIES!

And then of course this is the first thing I see....

They are having a farewell dinner for Elder Rangel and Elder Reyes who are going home. Tyler really loves these guys too. President Hansen cooked this meat for them, and Sister Hansen made her famous homemade rolls. I know Tyler misses his Grandma's homemade rolls, so this has to be a comfort food for him.

His letter was a good one this week. He was very busy getting housing ready for the new areas, and this week he is taking all the goods to all the areas. He will be able to travel around the entire mission and he is excited to see all the areas he has not, and will not be able to see again.
He is happy!

Here are a few updates of the world!
Elder Chris in Bulgaria is doing great, and his mom is sending new pictures for me, but said that he is getting a little sad that his mission is going too fast and winding down... he leaves in December! Great attitude Chris!
My nephew Kasey, who I guess I will post his homecoming picture(in his defense, his camera was stolen), will be home in two months! I can hardly believe this, I'm excited to see him home.

Elder Dallin is doing great and getting a new companion soon. And wouldn't it be great to pick an orange out of your front yard everyday?!
Elder Jason and the missionaries of New Delhi. His last letter said now they are up to 400 members in the area! That is alot compared to when he first went out. EXCITING TIMES!

And I LOVE those mission ties!

Around here, just a normal, busy week. Yesterday was our "Day of Service" throughout the entire Southeast region, and our stake cleaned parks, and had a blood drive and the Young Single Adults volunteered at the Greensboro's Children Museum and helped celebrate their 10 year anniversay. It was a busy day, HOT and fun. The turnout was great and we were so glad for the opportunity.

WHY DO WE LOVE THIS VIDEO SO MUCH?

2009-04-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

Over 100 million hits on YouTube last week.... why?
Why am I so obsessed with this video, and would RUN to buy her album if it came out tomorrow?
Because...
The Worth of A Soul is...GREAT!!!

I like the part where Amanda Holden says "we were cynical, and we should be ashamed"

I found this quote, just wish I knew who to give the credit to!

"But there may be something else that accounts for our delight, and for those millions of hits.

"The way we see Susan Boyle is very nearly the way God sees us: worthwhile, special, talented, unique, beautiful. The world generally looks askance at people like Susan Boyle, if it sees them at all.

"Without classic good looks, without work, without a spouse, living in a small town, people like Susan Boyle may not seem particularly "important." But God sees the real person, and understands the value of each individual's gifts: rich or poor, young or old, single or married, matron or movie star, lucky or unlucky in life.

"God knows us. And loves us... That's another reason why the judges smile and the audience explodes in applause. Because they recognized a basic truth planted deep within them by God: Susan Boyle is somebody.
"Everybody is somebody"

Don't you EVER change Susan Boyle(well maybe the eyebrows). And if you haven't seen this yet, and one of the very few that haven't... GO MAKE YOURSELF HAPPY- watch it now and enjoy!

(I tried to embed it, and not allowed so copy and paste)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

Anyone need a DVD in Spanish?-

2009-04-19T16:11:00.000-07:00

Tyler's letter was good this week, and he says they are staying busy. Right now they are having a campaign with the DVD "The Lamb of God", and they have posters all over the mission with the phone number to call and request one. Tyler's job is to answer the phone and get the information and pass it along to the Elders' in that specific area... WELL, how tempting is it for me to call that office and order a DVD! So if you want one, I have a better excuse! Just kidding!
President Hansen is opening 5 new areas in the mission because they had 18 new missionaries and only 4 left, so with that Tyler's job is to go buy beds, tables and chairs, and the things they need to start up the area. So he is keeping busy with all his office work. He is excited for Mother's Day but not as excited as I am! I can't believe this will be the last time I talk to him before he comes home.
He said things were picking up in the area as far as teaching, and he just sounds happy!!!
Around here, Laura planned, decorated, and had a great time at a single adult all day activity yesterday. And I realized, she is MY DAUGHTER for all she HAD to do for this thing. But she had fun, as she always does!
Christopher starts his lifeguard certification class this week, and hopefully a job will come out of this!
Cameron and Christopher were my helpers at a wedding reception this weekend that someone asked me to do. Cameron is the hardest working child I have ever seen! All my friends always tell me they want Cameron to help at whatever we do, and of course I hire him as my number one helper! He gets to save his money, Christopher's goes to his certification class that is outrageous... and that is why he needs to get a job after it is over!
Barry and I are just plugging along at everything we need to do. Last week was a hectic week for Barry, so I hope things will slow down for him. WISHFUL THINKING!

A good week for Tyler, A fun Easter with family, and A Very Happy Birthday to Barry!

2009-04-12T20:41:00.000-07:00

Weeks are just flying by it seems, I can't believe how quickly this one has come and gone.
We celebrated Easter/Barry's birthday in Caswell and had fun visiting family, I didn't take my camera, so no pictures to document this great day in history of Barry turning 47!!! Whoa!47!!!
But his mom fixed him a really good dinner, and desserts, and the primary children at church sang to him and gave him a Hershey Cake- yum-o. And Sister Kate, a lady who is always doing so much for us made him a pineapple upside down cake.
So today was not a good day to try to lower his triglycerides, as he is working on.
We went over to the Baughan get-together tonight, and one can never be let down for fun, laughter, and LOUDNESS there! It is always fun getting together with our families, and we love them all!
Instead of me saying the things I love about Barry here are a few things the kids said to me:
Tyler-"I am so glad I am his son"
Laura-" I love how grateful he always is, and how he always expresses his gratitude for what he has, even the simplest things"
Christopher-" I love what a good person he is"
Cameron- " I love that he gets us box seats at the coliseum"

I think my kids are pretty much on target! They love their dad so much, and I am just grateful he is their dad! Love you honey!!!

Tyler had another good week, and things seem to be picking up in the area with teaching. He said they have a couple of baptismal dates set in the next couple of weeks of some really good people. He works in the office in the morning, and he said he stays so busy with that that time goes quickly.
But he is just happy it has picked up when they go out. He was very excited about the Carolina game, glad they won for Tyler Hansbrough
Glad he could have good news about the outcome of the game!

The Office group in Xalapa the capitol of Veracruz

The Office group at the pyramids in Cempoala

The group outside a taco restaurant, I can't even think about this one
and what he is eating!

D.C for Cameron, Just a little NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP for the home boys, and BIFOCALS for me!

2009-04-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, when I start getting phone calls that my blog has not been updated, I think I need to do something about it! And that maybe really more than 3 people, meaning, Barry, Tyler and myself really get on this blog! Sometimes I really think that "do people REALLY care about our mundane little lives?" But I am doing this for Tyler and to keep up journal anyway, so I guess it matters for that.
Anyway... Cameron had a great time in Washington DC with his 8th grade class. He was told very sternly, "Cameron, don't just take pictures of places, put yourself in those pictures"... isn't that the way all the teenagers do it now anyway, sticking your arm out and doing those way too close ups?! Not that difficult Cam... but I get them and needless to say the only person he has a picture of out of two disposable cameras is, his "hot teacher". Yes, my 13 year old has a crush on his teacher, and she is a cutie.:). She even asked him to dance on the dinner cruise they went on, but of course I have NO PROOF of that... because I have NO PICTURES OF CAMERON!!!
But, the most important thing is he had fun at the expense of a $400.00 field trip!

Tyler has had a great two weeks. His letters have been very good, and he is having a great time where he is at right now.
Two weeks ago he was busy most of the week shuffling 16 new missionaries around from the airport to the mission home, to the buses, so that kept him busy that week. The best part of this letter of course came from his journey down to Santiago, to make the "group" become a branch.
He said it was one of the "best memories of his mission". He was there for almost 8 months, so going and seeing the people that he grew to love was very special, and in this setting made it extra special. I hope he will not get upset at me for this... but he said he was able to stand in the setting apart of 3 converts that he taught that had received new callings, one in the branch presidency, one the young men's president, and the Relief Society president. What a great feeling that must have been for him!
President Hansen had Tyler and the elders that are there(which is Elder Collins who Tyler had as his comp. there) come up and give their testimonies.
Tyler said he just thanked everyone for his memories there, and his time spent there.
I am so glad for this experience.
This past weeks letter was also a good one. He had spent the day at conference, so we did not get the email until midnight on Saturday, (10 his time). Ummm, and just in time to get an email about the Carolina, Villanova game... Tyler your timing is impeccable!
He said he really enjoyed conference, and of course getting to listen in English is a big plus!
He always loves President Eyring's talks, and wrote about this one today. Between the sessions, he baptized a 15 year old boy who was in his Brisas area a few months ago, he was the one that taught him, so he wanted Tyler to baptize him. Elder De La Cruz baptized the boys mother, who at the time was not interested in the church, but later was taught herself. Tyler said they are really good people, and really wants this young man to serve a mission, and hopes that now with his mother's support he will.
So that is the rundown on Tyler's last two weeks.
And of course... WE HAVE A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM FROM NORTH CAROLINA!!!!!
We had a great time watching the games with Michael Bolin, it is as close as we can be to Tyler!
This is one of his best friends. Barry LOVES when MB comes to watch games he can carry on conversations that he can't with me. MB said he will be back in a few weeks for the NBA finals.
Conference was great and we enjoyed our down time. Laura had a few friends over from the single adult group, so we had a good time with them.
Christopher turned in his senior project, and now it is just about that time to say goodbye to high school for him! What a relief to get that over with.
And last but not least... I AM OLD! I have noticed a change in my vision, I am so blind without contacts anyway, and went in for my check. Yes, I need bifocals. I said to him "doesn't that come around fifty"? Nope, early 40's. Yep, that would be me! Oh the joys of aging!

And speaking of aging... My little sweet Katherine Lee, who is like one of my own had her first little one on March 5th in Provo Utah. His name is Keaton Allen Thomas. He is a BEAUTIFUL baby, but look at his gorgeous parents! We love you Katherine and know you will be an awesome mommy!

NCAA Basketball and Tyler hanging with ROYALTY?!

2009-03-23T13:42:00.000-07:00

Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Norway

The Page boys had a fun weekend this past weekend with the NCAA games in town. Takata has a box at the Greensboro Coliseum, and fortunately for Barry, there are not many basketball fans that work there. They are outdoor men.

So we headed over and had a great time with GREAT seats! Grandpa Lindsey joined us, and our nephew Will got to see his first ever Duke game(he is a huge Duke fan). Will wasn't at the game yet when I snapped this picture. It was fun watching the Duke and Carolina fans go at it during each others game. They would never pull for each other, and of course the "Cameron Crazies" came up with some good ones as always!

Grandpa and Grandma are always doing so much for us, that Barry told him " I can only give you two things, basketball tickets, and to try to live a good life". I don't know what makes Lindsey happier of these two! But we all had a good time. Thanks Takata!!!

Now, as for Tyler, he is hanging out with royalty now! The Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Norway were in Veracruz, and the Governor held a dinner and ball for them. They came to the mission home and asked for translators. President sent over Tyler and his companion.

They basically had to walk around and ask if anyone needed help with translations.

He said they finally sat down with everyone and ate a very formal meal, and in his words " To the point where they brought out some sherbet ice cream to put it on the tongue to take the taste away so the people could keep on eating. I didn't understand it at first then my companion told me that he saw it on a movie one time that it was to take the taste away from the last type of food so you could eat something else." Okay Tyler... the movie your companion is talking about is "Princess Diaries"! Should have been watching your sister's movie collection!

This was a fun experience for him though. At least he can say he has been with royalty. :)

All in all his letter was good, he was asked by a guy he taught in his last area to come back and baptize him, so he was able to do that, and he is was very excited because the area Santiago, that he served in for 8 months, was made a branch yesterday! He was excited to be a part of that yesterday, and I know he was excited to see people he misses there.

I hope he took pictures of his Sunday in Santiago!

A good week for us all!

Spring Break for Laura, Tyler loves his new job, and missionaries we love.

2009-03-18T16:27:00.000-07:00

Laura had a great time visiting her best friends Lauren Hunter and Priscilla Vargas in Utah over her spring break.

These girls are so funny, and love each other so much. They were non-stop, and she didn't even get to visit our family out there, and she had planned to surprise them. Maybe next time, because she really loves my Aunt and cousin, and especially little Anabella!

Tyler had his p-day on Saturday and his letter was really good. He shares a room with 5 other Elders, they get up and he shoots basketball for 30 minutes, and they have study time and work from 10-2. They have lunch and they go out for the afternoon. He did mention the hot showers were great after a year of not having them.

What a WONDERFUL surprise I received in the mail today from Tyler! He made a video of his mission set to music with a personal note at the end. I was floored when I watched it!

He is so creative when it comes to this. It is by far one of the best gifts I have ever received.

Thanks honey! I will cherish it!

Here are some recent pictures of our favorite missionaries in the world. Of course, my nephew Kasey, who NEVER sends home pictures is still not on here. He got his release date of June 24th! We are so excited and I know it will be here before we know it.

Elder Jason with a cute, cute girl that reminds me of his sister Jenna, who misses him so much!

Elder Zach Buehner showing us it is OK to eat with our hands!

Elder Dallin walking along with his companion- I love this picture!

Elder Jason Hansen in Nepal.

Elder Jason with a family in Nepal

Priscilla, Laura and Lauren.

Girls with the "bug boys"

Lauren, Laura and Priscilla they are hilarious together!

Tyler has it "maid"!!!

2009-03-09T14:43:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday in your "cool" zone shirts!
Tyler in front of Sacrifice Island. This is their mission slogan, "that we sacrifice everything to serve."

The Zone after playing soccer on the beach.

Birthday party with a family in his ward. Look at that cutie sitting so close to my boy!

Back off girl!

Baptism of Miriam and Jennifer.

Ok, all of his hard work has paid off... this boy has it made. Being in the offices has its privledges, and in HOT,HUMID, Mexico, being in the office is pretty sweet. He has air conditioning for the first time in 16 months, and he has a maid that cooks breakfast, lunch and washes his clothes and cleans for him! Oh yeah, and I can't forget he will finally take a hot shower. Needless to say he is happy. He is excited too that there is a basketball court behind the office, and he has hardly picked up a basketball in 16 months, he is on his way to get a net and ball this evening. (thanks G'parents for b'day money!).
His new companion is Elder Lopez and Tyler has a great deal of respect for him. He said he is a really good guy and he speaks English perfectly, that made Tyler happy too.
They work in the office from 10 until 2 and then they go out and work. So he is glad he will still get to go out too.
The ward has been so good to him there. They had a birthday dinner and cake yesterday, and they are doing a farewell/birthday party tonight. Those Mexicans can PARTY!
He had a good day at the beach today playing soccer and football.
They had two baptisms last week, Miriam and Jennifer, and they are working with a girl this week. He seems so happy and seems to really be enjoying himself. I know he will miss the great people of Mexico and how good they are to him.
I'm glad he had a great day!

21 WONDERFUL years of Tyler!!!

2009-03-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

A little missionary!
Even cute in white back then!

And still cute in white today!

My baby is 21!!! This is so hard to believe. He has given me so much joy, and laughter, and tears (that would be the day he left!), and I am eternally grateful that he is mine. I could easily think of 21 great things about Tyler, but my favorite things are his sweetness, his humility,he is one of the most humble young men I have ever been around, and it is such a great quality. I love his playfulness, but yet his desire to do what is right. He is a great son, grandson, brother, and he has been an awesome friend to so many people. His buddy Michael came up Saturday night and spent the evening with us, and it is evident how much their friendship has meant to each other.

I love how non-judgemental you are Ty. What a great quality, and I think of great people that have this same quality. In my last conversation with him (at Christmas), he spoke of his high school friends and the good that they have in them. He ALWAYS looks for the good in people, and never judges them for what they may not know, or their imperfections. This too, is a very
good quality to have as a missionary!
Have a wonderful birthday honey!
I love you and next year... you will get steak!

No other place I'd rather be... than just like this!

2009-03-06T17:31:00.000-08:00

Barry and I celebrated our 22nd wedding anniversay today, and I am so grateful for another year to be together. We have had a wonderful, 22 years, and I thank my Father in Heaven each day for him. I love you honey!!! Now... let March Madness begin!

It doesn't get any better than this!

2009-03-02T11:51:00.000-08:00

Tyler got transferred this week and will be in the office (secretary) as of next Tuesday the 10th. The best part... It is March, and evidently his President loves March madness as much as Tyler... boy do these two hit it off!
They are going as a zone to the beach next Monday (his birthday) and playing sports on the beach with jerseys that they all made. I am anxious for those pictures to see what they made. It is kinda a farewell thing. I am excited for him.
He said they had two baptisms this week a mother and her daughter, and Tyler's words were, "it was a gift from above". He actually taught this mother last year in his first area. He was happy.
Anxious to hear all about his new adventures.

Snow FINALLY comes!!!

2009-03-01T16:02:00.000-08:00

We recieved 6 inches of snow last night and it is BEAUTIFUL! I don't really remember having such a pretty snow for a long time. We got outside last night and played, but it was too dark for pictures. I tried....

This should keep them out of school for a couple of days!

Hooray for sleeping in!

Jonathan my baby brother's 40th birthday party at Restaurant X in Davidson.

And if you live anywhere near this restaurant is it a must! The food is fresh and delicious.

The owners are neighbors of Jon and Lisa's.

We had a really fun night

Happy Birthday Jonathan

Here with my Dad, Marcia, and Joey

The wonderful Lisa that truly loves my brother and is so good to him.

My cousins' wives Sheila and Andi Baughan, they are wonderful girls, and Roger and Steve are so VERY blessed to have them.

The "roast" began.

Joey giving Jon a pair of "Gotcha" brand leather pants. One year for our white elephant Christmas gifts Jon HAD to have the red, white and blue pants from the movie Napolean Dynamite that were authenic. So he has a thing for "sexy pants".

Jonathan here with Barry, Roger, Sheila, Steve, and a couple from their ward.Jonathan with his other love, his mother....

Jonathan and Lisa

A dedicated camper, and a dedicated missionary!

2009-02-23T14:04:00.000-08:00

Some pictures from President Hansen's blog. This is one of the most beautiful missionary pictures I have ever seen! It was on Pres. Hansen's blog and it is Elder Moeller from Arizona. I love how this boy is looking up at him with his trust.

Pres. Hansen said there are alligators in this river too!!!

Elder Collins sent this picture to Pres.Hansen, it is pig skin.. and they eat it.

Gross!!!

Anyone would either have to be very dedicated to scouting, or just love camping to camp like Cameron and his troop did this past weekend! It was around 20 degrees and his leader said most of them ended up laying beside the campfire by the end of the night.

Barry and I both had trouble sleeping thinking of them "freezing" out there all night, but they survived! They got up on Saturday and did a six mile hike on Hanging Rock. Here are some pictures, that they should be proud of!

Tyler had a good week, he had to do a presentation for 12 missionaries, the Stake President, and some bishops in the area. He said he did a video, and power point presentation about members helping with the missionary work. He said he was glad to be able to do this, but he much rather be out tracting, and working with the members. He sounds really good, and happy again this week. He did say how grateful he is for all the experiences he is having, and realizes how time is going by so quickly. He seemed a little worried about his Aunt Leslie and several things she is going through, but Barry was able to tell him today, that things are looking up for her too, she received a good report from Duke today. We are grateful!

A good week and Elder Zach Buehner loves India!

2009-02-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

Click on this picture to see the detail of this elephant- really cool!

Tyler had a good week and is enjoying his companion Elder De La Cruz. He said he is patient and humble, and those are two of Tyler's favorite qualities in a companion. He did say he was a "pretty boy", which makes me laugh, because Tyler is so NOT! But he has enjoyed getting to know him and working with him.

Now, we all know, and if you don't that his love is the UNC Basketball team and sports, well how awesome is his mission president that CALLED HIM WEDNESDAY NIGHT AT 10:00 PM to tell him that Carolina just beat Duke!!! What a great man! That is how personal he is with his missionaries. That made Tyler so happy. Thanks President Hansen!

I am constantly amazed at how good he is to his missionaries. I look at his blog, and love how he and Sister Hansen just really seem like they are enjoying their callings. I am grateful!

It was cute to read that he and his companion were making invitations for the members to give out to their friends, I am curious to see those Tyler! :) He said the members are so good to them there, and help so much with missionary work.

The weather is heating up and he says the sweating is starting again.

A good week for sure.

My friend Becky sent me an email from her son Zach in India who has been out for two months and loving it! It is cute to read how he is trying to figure out how 14 missionaries can teach 12 million people! He said if he spoke to 15 people a day it would take them 175 years! Sounds like they need some more missionaries over there to help. We do have a couple of Page and Baughan boys going out in the next year or so , that would be neat for them to serve with Zach! I love his attitude though. He is working hard, and enjoying it. Thanks for the update Becky.

A new companion and a good letter

2009-02-09T19:39:00.000-08:00

Tyler's email this week was just a run down of his week. Elder Guiterrez went home and this affected Tyler more than I thought it would. He really liked him, and learned so much from him. But he has heard good things about his new companion, Elder De La Cruz. They have been out the same amount of time. Otherwise, things are going well, and their investigators are doing well so far. He sounds good and just working hard. He does miss his basketball season, and especially since the tournament is right around the corner. Basketball is his love for sure! But he will be fine. I have a feeling he will get plenty of emails during March from several people giving him updates :) His dad is the best at that!
But all in all it was a good week. I look forward to hearing more about Elder De La Cruz.
Hopefully he will send pictures soon as well.

Tyler's good week, and a Happy Birthday to Chris!

2009-02-02T18:08:00.000-08:00

Growing up with Chris was never dull! Here we are with our tanning bed tans!
At his wedding reception and I am 8 months pregnant.

Tyler's letter this week was upbeat and good again. He is enjoying his mission!!! And tells us that every week. His companion Elder Guiterrez, goes home this week. So another companion he will get! They baptized a young girl last week, and are working with a woman right now, but she is in the hospital. He loves the ward he is in. They had a member missionary day and they had 30 members go door to door, and they came back to Tyler and and Elder G with 35 referrals! That is amazing. Wish that would happen here. But we can't complain too much, our ward is great about that and most of our baptisms in the past two years have been through the members.

The letter this week was just a run down of his weeks, and some stuff about what he is going to do when he comes home, which for some reason he thinks we hit the lottery or something, because he actually told me he wants me to get him tickets to the Duke- Carolina game next year!- Yeah, that is funny, seeing that most people have to either win the lottery or camp out weeks before to get tickets!

It was a good week and made me a happy mama!

Happy Birthday to my brother Chris. I know I don't give birthday wishes to everyone, but I am grateful to have him as a brother. He is the sister I never had, and he knows that. We also could have lost Chris a few years ago. He had a stroke and was told by doctors that it was a 50% chance he could have lost his life. He recovered amazingly, and he was well taken care of, and I am very grateful to Christi for that, and have told her many times.

He is a good brother, and one of the most compassionate people I know. He often apologizes for being rough on me during my teenage years, but I just tell him it made me tough and am not a sissy girl for it. We have fun, and he brings out the silly in me. And he has a great relationship with all my kids to this day and they love him!

Happy Birthday Chris, and I love you!

I hate hackers!

2009-01-29T11:43:00.000-08:00

I am taking Tylers' email off this blog and soon may go private all together. I have noticed crazy emails coming in on my email account, and I do not want Tyler to get these too. It may be too late. I have heard that people search through blogs just for info. And my emails are from all over the world. Anyway, if you want the email address, feel free to leave a comment. I will let you know if I go private all together. I will need emails.

A good week for Tyler!

2009-01-26T13:34:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I now can count on just 2 hands how many months Tyler has left- time flies!!!
His letters are so upbeat and happy. I am glad for the experiences that he is having.He baptized Lucio Santiago last week, and they baptized a 9 year old girl whose mother is less-active. Tyler loves children so I know this has been a fun part of his mission to be able to teach and work with the younger kids as well. They do so much with the less-active members in their missionary work, and it has paid off for them. He said Lucio is a 50 yr. old man and he is "golden". He felt that from the start with him. They are doing baptisms on Feb. 7th, in the ocean! He is so excited about that and he and Elder G. have a commitment for that already, and hope more. It is a zone thing too, which I think will be awesome! I can't wait to see pictures.
Can't remember if I wrote about this or not, but we received last week a Christmas card from the entire mission. It was a beautiful card with pictures of EVERY (220) missionaries in the mission, Pres. and Sis. Hansen and of the Savior, and of Veracruz. Tyler had a handwritten message on there too, which was my favorite part, you see, I haven't received a handwritten letter since he has been in Mexico. He is diligent about great emails, and journal writing, but the cost, and time for handwritten, is too much. (And I don 't mind Tyler). You are doing a great job with emails and I love how much you write in your journal!
I didn't realize how many missionaries are in this mission. Now I have such a greater appreciation for Pres. and Sister Hansen, and how they do so much to keep on track, and they are so personal with them. That is the amazing part!
Things on the homefront are good. Jobs still here, and we continue to just have hope. I sincerely pray for our government. President Obama has so much on his plate, I only hope he remembers who to turn to when he needs help!

I've been tagged!

2009-01-25T21:55:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by cousin Mindee, and I love her, so I will do this.:)

How I met Barry
1. Where did you meet? Knew each other through his sister Leslie, and church.
2. What was the first thought that went through your head when you met? Nice and cute!
3. Do you remember what he was wearing? Not the first time we met, but probably a suit.

4. When was the first time you kissed this person? A couple of months after our first date, he was a real gentleman.
5. Where did you go for your first date? A friend's wedding reception, and the movie "Out of Africa"
6.How long did you know this person before you became a couple? A few years, but really a couple of months that we really saw each other around.

7. How did he ask you out? He asked me at church if I wanted to go to his parents to visit and see Leslie, I didn't think anything of it, except for I was excited to see Leslie! On the way home he asked if I wanted to go out. I about fell out of the car. I did not expect it.
8. Has this person ever proposed to you? yes, Sept. 9, 1986. At his apartment, we ate pizza and watched the TV show Moonlighting, like we did every Tuesday night!
9. Do you and this person have kids together? 4 wonderful ones!
10. Have you ever broken the law with this person? When I drive, yes, when he drives, no.
11. When was the first time you realized you liked this person? We got along great from the beginning, we would talk for hours. but probably REALLY liked.... about 3 to 4 weeks after the first date.
12. Do you get along with his family? Love the whole kit-n-kaboodle!(what does that really mean?)
13. Do you trust this person? a million percent!
14. Do you see him as your partner in the future? no one else!
15.What is one thing he does that gets on your nerves? REMOTE CONTROL-I don't need to say anything else.
16.Where do you see each other 15 years from now? Loving our 3 daughters in-law and 1 son in-law, and tons of grandbabies!!! And preparing for a mission.
17. What causes the most arguments? We both HATE contention, but if we argue, which is rare (I know, it is healthy too, but we really don't). I would have to say, that he cleans too much... and I know what you all are going to say, "but it's great", but there is a guilt factor.
18. How long have you been together? Dec.29 it was 23 yrs.
19. Are you married? For 22 years March 6th.
20. Who do you tag?An yone who wants to play!

Pictures of Tyler--YAY!!!!

2009-01-19T16:38:00.000-08:00

In front of the Veracruz Temple Dec.2008

Sign reads "Forming today, tomorrows leaders"

how appropriate!

This is how they make taco al pastor, Tyler loves them and Barry does too!

I think it is GROSS!

you all can't see the flies that fly around them, but while in Mexico, you can see it.

Tyler with Elder Gutierrez with a family that he baptized about a year ago when he was in Camino Real.

Elder de la o in front of the nativity scene at the Temple.

With Elder de la o eating tacos al pastor.

Elder Jason in India

He looks so happy!

Good email from Tyler this week. They baptized Luis Manuel last week and Tyler feels real good about him and his desire to be a member of the church. They also have several investigators and one has already commited to baptism.

He is working hard and he loves keeping busy. It was a sweet letter, and it ended with a thanks for the support, as it does every week. His exact words this week went like this " I really do enjoy reading them every week. Even if I dont remember what you said tomorrow I know that you wrote me and prayed for me. Hope you have a good week. I love you"

You are a sweet, sweet boy Tyler!

I added some pictures of Elder Jason too that I received. I wish I had more pictures of all the other missionaries, I just happen to work for Jason's dad and he emails them to me, or I threaten him too!

Cousins Christmas and A Happy Missionary!

2009-01-12T19:24:00.000-08:00

Rockers Tory and Chris

Tory going solo!

Cameron, Abby and Carson playing Catch Phrase

Norah rockin on Rock Band!

Chris and Will Rockin it too!

Abby, Jordan and Cameron

Each Christmas break we try to have all the Page cousins come over for a sleep over. This year we were short three. Wasn't the same, but they seemed to have a fun time. This year, Rock Band and Apples to Apples took up the night, but of course they had to get their game of Capture the Flag in. They woke up to the tradition of Barry making them waffles. My Mother-in-law says we are crazy, but we don't even care that they stay up all night, just so they are making sweet memories.

As far as Tyler updates, he is so happy! Two weeks of good letters, and a baptism last week and one possibly this week. He is excited about these baptism, because he says these guys will really help out at church each week, and that is so needed. He said he loves his area and how busy they are right now. He said he is really enjoying his mission right now because of being so busy. The Tarheels are letting him down, but I think secretly he is glad he not missing a perfect season for them.

He did tell me at Christmas that he has received some emails from his best friends, and how grateful they all are that have each other. I won't go into detail, but I am so grateful for these young men, and what great men and leaders they are becoming. We as moms talk about that and how grateful I am for his friends families too. These young men have been given a lot of support through the years.

Our stake is very supportive of our missionaries too. Keith Hiatt, who is family friend writes every missionary in our stake every week!!! He sends them the same thing, but it is so thoughtful, and he always sends uplifting letters. Tyler wrote about this once and said..." Dudes awesome!, he is so knowledgeable" Keith's wife Becky said, he took that (Dude) as a compliment. But I know it means so much to Tyler to receive these letters from him. And I am grateful for everyone that takes the time to write.

The "Sunday Group"

2009-01-01T17:05:00.000-08:00

Remember to click on the picture to make it larger

Tyler's mission President has a blog and we glanced at it and there was Tyler! He was visiting Santiago Los Tuxtla before Tyler was transferred. It was fun to see Tyler with the Sunday group, which is church every Sunday for him. I had not seen a picture of his apartment either, so that was a nice treat.

Thanks Pres. Hansen!

My favorite Christmas gift!

2008-12-29T15:47:00.000-08:00

Laura and Jordan(one of the sweetest boys around!)
We love our Abby! Don't do it Jordan!!!!
Don't hurt sweet Tory!
Life at the Pages' with Uncle Wilbur, Carla and Grandma
Our house is not divided! Just by sports!
Fun times in Chris's game room
Austin and his Nana
Chris and Grandpa Curry 99 yrs young
Baby Tyler-or as I say " Tyler too"

Of course my best gift ever would be speaking to Tyler, and it was! He sounded so happy!!! He is really enjoying his mission, and is very grateful for it. We were able to talk an hour, and it went by way to fast!
They played football and soccer that day, and they had a "fiesta" with a pinata and all. I had to smile when he told me he another Elder were in charge of getting all the food from Costco, and getting the party all ready... he learned something from his mother! He did say he liked Christmas in the MTC better, but who wouldn't?
His friend Michael came up and he got to speak to him for a few minutes, and Tyler really liked that. They are both Minnesota Viking fans, so I am sure that was part of the conversation! My parents came over as well, so I know Tyler enjoyed talking to them, and then Barry's parents and sisters called him, so he got a lot of love that day!
His email this week was really good too, his new companion is Elder Guitierez, and Tyler really likes this guy. He was Tyler's Zone leader and Tyler says he is "awesome". He has really been blessed with some good companions that have really helped him. He also said they have several investigators right now, so he is working hard with them.
As far as our Christmas, it was a good one, and I will admit, a lot better than last year, or least my family says I was more upbeat this year. Last year was a blur to me. We went to the Baughan's at Chris and Christi's house, and we were able to talk to Kasey in Korea! It was great to talk to him. He sounds so good, and I can't believe he will be home in 6 months!
Christmas day we had our traditional breakfast, and then we played games, and had a steak dinner.
The day after we went to the Page side, but Barry and Cameron were so sick they both missed out. Cameron was so excited to go that it made me sad he wasn't able to go.
But we had a fun time, and of course ate well! We are so fortunate to have such good families. We are so grateful for all we have, and this time of the year our greatest gift, the gift of our Savior.

9 days and counting the minutes! And Elder Kenny Amacher is loving the southland!

2008-12-16T14:39:00.000-08:00

I am literally counting down the hours and minutes until I get to talk to my baby! And in his sweet, sweet, funny letter this week, he is too! One thing about sending my kids away, is the appreciation that I have for the smallest things, like the sound of his voice. Christopher sounds a lot like him and he even laughed like him last night, and it just made me smile! Tyler had a great week, and really likes the area and his companion. They baptized a 16 yr. old girl named Flor last week and he so excited to be able to go to a sealing for a family that his companion baptized last year. They are going in a couple of weeks for that. I think that is what will be so touching to him, is to see the rewards of the blessings that will come to this family, through being sealed. His letters are so funny, and he does not sugar coat anything! If he likes it, you know it, if he doesn't-you know it too, but hey, that is Tyler.
I had asked my friend Patti to send some pictures over of Elder Kenny, so I could keep Tyler up to date with him. They did get to spend some time in the MTC together.
We love Kenny. He is serving in Louisiana and doing great things! He is teaching them in the ole Espanol- and has some great experiences. He has opened several areas in his mission, and he seems to really love it there. We have so many great young men serving from our area right now, it is so fun to hear all about their missions.
On the homefront, things are just rolling as normal, as normal as Christmas time can be... but we are pretty much low key this year, so things are done! We are just gonna enjoy getting together with friends and family for the next two weeks.
I am ready for some down time and to catch up on some reading that I have been wanting to do all year! Then it starts all over again.....

Busy Elder Tyler

2008-12-09T18:17:00.000-08:00

Tyler's letter this week was really good, but he said they are so busy. Which is a great thing. The church has a DVD they are promoting there, and so they are fulfilling those orders, and working with 6 investigators. He is really enjoying his time with Elder De la O, and says he reminds him of his friends he would have back home. They love talking about sports. They are working really hard together, so it is nice they have some down time to talk about things they enjoy.
Ever since my kids were babies, they have always had a Christmas tree in their room, with a theme... well our new tradition is our "missionary" tree. This one was fun, and I could not believe how easy it was to find Mexico ornaments. It will be interesting to see where the other boys go to see how we will decorate it. I love looking in on that tree each time I walk by it and see that sweet face in that star!
So I wanted to share a picture of it for Tyler to see.
Around the world missionary news...
Elder Dallin and his companions sent this sweet picture. His companion is Korean, and barely speaks English. And he is there to speak Spanish, I know that is fun!
Elder Jason in India recieved some exciting news, he is now one of the AP's in his mission, and it gets better... because of this, he will travel with the President all over the mission, which includes training in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal!
I am thrilled over this news, because just this past conference President Monson asked us to be prayerful for countries to open and accept the gospel. If I understand this correctly, we do not have missionaries in these countries as of yet, but native missionaries are there, and Elder Jason is helping to train them. Yes, our quiet, humble, Jason!
No recent word on our other Elders. We love hearing from them, so hopefully we will soon.
Right now, we are just counting down the days until we get to speak to Tyler on the phone... and that would be 16 days!!!

A REAL Thanksgiving for Tyler!

2008-12-01T18:05:00.000-08:00

Tyler had a Zone Leader Conference last week for the zone leaders in the mission, and afterwards, they went back to President Hansen's house for a REAL Thanksgiving meal! He was so excited, and I was so happy to hear that he had a traditional meal. He loved it! Sister Hansen and another American sister in the office fixed it for them. I am glad he wasn't eating tortillas and rice and beans for Thanksgiving!
He had a really good week and really loves this area. They had a baptism last week of an 11 yr.old girl, whose parents are inactive, but she started reading the Book of Mormon, and wanted to come to church and be baptized because she wanted the contention in the home to stop. Her parents did not want her to do this, but she wanted to so badly, they agreed. My favorite part of his letter this week, talks about how he notices the changes that people make in their life through the gospel as he looks around.
They had five investigators at church yesterday, and possibly another baptism.
Our family had a good Thanksgiving on both sides of the family. I took more videos, then pictures, meaning I took no pictures! My nephews Kyle from NYC and Keaton from BYU came home, so it was really good to see them. We are so blessed with good families. We enjoy our time together, and have a lot of fun together.
Now it is off to decorate for Christmas!

He loves the city!

2008-11-24T12:22:00.001-08:00

Tyler's email was really good this week. I think he learned to appreciate not having so much around him, being in Santiago(10,000 population). He is going to McDonalds today, and is actually excited about it! I think he is just glad to be back in a ward now. He said they average 145 per week, and yesterday they had 20 investigators! They only had 20 people at church total in Santiago, his expression was "it's awesome"! He really likes his companion Elder De La O. He said they have the same style of teaching, and he is really likes learning from him. I am so glad he is trying to learn all he can from the other Elders with more experience.
And of course, his letter started out with 1 YEAR DOWN.... 1 YEAR TO GO....
It is hard for us all to believe how fast this has gone, and now I think it will go even faster.
President and Sister Hansen have a blog www.felices2juntos.blogspot.com and we love going on there to look for Tyler. And we love hearing about the mission from their perspective. They seem to be such good people.
I love happy weeks!

An added note....

2008-11-17T20:37:00.000-08:00

As I have said before, our good little bishop, who I am not allowed to name on this blog :), has an insert in our weekly bulletin. And two Sundays ago he had this one in it. Pretty profound for a talk that was given in 1978!!!
Another testimony to me, to listen to the Prophet.

"Make no mistake about it, brothers and sisters, in the months and years ahead, events are likely to require each member to decide whether or not he will follow the First Presidency. Members will find it more difficult to halt longer between two opinions. President Marion G. Romney said, many years ago, that he had 'never hesitated to follow the counsel of the Authorities of the Church even though it crossed my social, professional or political life.'

This is hard doctrine, but it is particularly vital doctrine in a society which is becoming more wicked. In short, brothers and sisters, not being ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ includes not being ashamed of the prophets of Jesus Christ... Your discipleship may see the time when such religious convictions are discounted... This new irreligious imperialism seeks to disallow certain opinions simply because those opinions grow out of religions convictions.

Resistance to abortion will be seen as primitive. Concern over the institution of the family will be viewed as untrendy and unenlightened... Before the ultimate victory of the forces of righteousness, some skirmishes will be lost. Even in these, however, let us leave a record so that the choices are clear, letting others do as they will in the face of prophetic counsel. There will also be times, happily, when a minor defeat seems probably, but others will step forward, having been rallied to rightness by what we do.

We will know the joy, on occasion, of having awakened a slumbering majority of the decent people of all races and creeds which was, till then, unconscious of itself. Jesus said that when the fig trees put forth their leaves, 'summer is nigh.' Thus warned that summer is upon us, let us not then complain of the heat."

Elder Neal A. Maxwell, "Meeting Challenges of Today," BYU Devotional October 10, 1978

Headed to Veracruz!!!

2008-11-17T12:12:00.000-08:00

Finally a transfer for Tyler this week, after 8 months in Santiago he is headed up to Veracruz to an area called
Las Brisas. And he is going to be a Zone Leader! He is shocked and he said "I am not gonna lie, I am nervous". There are 24 elders in his zone, so that is why he is nervous. His new companion is Elder De La O, and he is leaving in February. He was an AP at one time, so Tyler is excited to get to learn from him. He is so grateful for his time in Santiago. He said he learned so much from being in this small town, and really loved the people. I think today will be a difficult day for him saying goodbye. I love Hna. Lilia and her family for all she has done for my son. I am so grateful to her for the care she gave him during his time in Santiago.
He attended both sessions of the re-dedication of the Mexico City Temple yesterday, and really enjoyed President Monson's talk in the second one. Barry, my mom and I all went to it last evening too. I think we just all wanted to feel alittle closer to Tyler. I have attended several dedications over the years, but I loved the feeling I felt at this one, and I couldn't understand most of it. President Monson and Eyring spoke and Anne Dibbs, Pres. Monson's daughter spoke, and they were so good.
When we moved to Mexico 10 years ago, the first place we asked the driver to take us on our way to Cuernavaca was to go see the Temple. It was such an emotional move, that I loved going and seeing the Temple then.
Tyler is really trying to learn so much and use this time to study all he can. I love watching his growth. Oh yeah, he and Elder Collins baptized Aldolfo last week. He is a 20 year old young man, and Tyler felt better about him. I know Elder Collins will work with him. But my biggest concern is the drunk bff- oh how he will miss Tyler! And I know Tyler will miss him too!

Follow the Prophet...He knows the way!

2008-11-15T19:36:00.000-08:00

I have watched for weeks and weeks the election coverage, because I am a Fox news addict! But my biggest concern has been the vote that took place in California this election on Proposition 8. I have not voiced my opinion on my blog, but I will now. We as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints are not discriminating people. We are taught to be good to everyone. PERIOD...
I take umbrage( I just like that word), at all the people who are accusing us of being discriminating against those that would like to wed each other of the same sex.
I don't care what others choose to do in their lives, I am not a judgemental person. But DON'T attack me and my beliefs. I know it is the last days when thousands are marching in protest at our temples, and churches, and I know it will only get worse. And this is why I am so grateful for a Prophet to guide us. The church may change its practices on things, BUT NEVER it's doctrine, and the scriptures are doctrine.
OK, I'm done.
And kudos to my nephew Kyle, who went to the Manhattan Temple this past week to do a session, and walked right through the group of 5,000(yes I said that) protesters, and went right through them and went right in, and knowing Kyle, he probably walked in the crowd smiling. And I thought what a great analysis of this life. We just need to walk right by and go and do the things that are right.
The Family, A Proclamation to the World.

http://www.lds.org/library/display/0,4945,161-1-11-1,FF.html