The Hunsaker Family

I am going to miss him....

2011-12-22T17:49:00.000-08:00

Argentina please be nice to my boy...cause you are getting one awesome young missionary!!

Heart Throbs!!

2011-12-08T19:18:00.000-08:00

Just so you know....these two melt my heart!!

Nearing the End....

2011-09-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

In less than two months I will get to see this cute face again....

Until then I am glad he is having the time of his life!!

Called to Serve

2011-08-25T14:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Elder Hunsaker:

You are hereby called to serve as a missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You are assigned to labor in the Argentina Neuquen Mission. It is anticipated that you will serve for a period of 24 months.

You should report to the Provo Missionary Training Center on Wednesday, December 21, 2011. You will prepare to preach the gospel in the Spanish language.

We couldn't be any happier!!!

Graduation

2011-06-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our Northridge Graduate

We couldn't be prouder!

Face

2011-05-09T12:50:00.000-07:00

Do you know how happy this face makes me...

It makes me VERY VERY happy!!

(We got to Skype on Mother's Day...and it was seriously the best)

Prom 2011

2011-05-01T19:35:00.000-07:00

Matt had his last prom ever this weekend. I had such bitter sweet feelings. I love that he is growing up but honestly I had a few tears knowing that it is my babies last dance. I think I will miss the dances more than my boys. I loved seeing the boys all dressed up and especially seeing all the fun dresses the girls wear.

Kaylee Fernandez was the lucky girl this year that Matt asked to Prom. They looked so cute in their yellow and black. What fun great memories they will have for the rest of their lives.

By the way....she has high heels on....as she said, "I have a height disadvantage"....LOL

LOVED her corsage if I do say so myself :)

So cute....while they were waiting for a couple of people for pictures they decided to just sit and relax...

Love it!

Friends for life!!

And they are off....for a fun night of dinner and dancing.

PS....Dang he is a cute kid if I do say so myself!!

Senior Pictures

2011-04-25T21:01:00.000-07:00

My sweet and very talented niece Cali came down from Idaho to take Matt's senior pictures.

From this....

Comes this....

I could have posted all 70 pictures because I LOVE them all. Cali gave me such a treasured memory of Matt who I can't believe will soon be graduating from high school. I am not sure where the time has gone AND I am not quite sure I am ready for him to grow up BUT he sure has grown into a fine young man that melts my heart.

I finally get it....45 years later

2011-04-01T14:16:00.000-07:00

It use to drive me nuts every year when I would ask my dad what he wanted for his birthday. He would always say, "Draw me a picture." Then later in life when I had kids he would say, "Have the kids draw me a picture...just something simple." Well, it use to bug me...why I don't know...maybe cause he was hard to buy for. But this morning I woke up on my 45th birthday, went downstairs and saw a banner hanging and a homemade card with some pretzel M&M's. Not that the boys haven't made me cards before...but today I finally got it. I was so touched that my almost 19 year old son would stay up after I went to bed and take time to make a banner and a card for me. It probably isn't the "coolest" thing to do, and it would have been easier for him to go buy something...but he didn't and I LOVE it. He spent time doing something so simple yet something that touched my heart beyond words. I really don't know how to explain this all very well...but at least I finally got what my dad was saying. It only took 45 years but today was so well worth it.

The camera lens that Larry got me and the blue sky was just icing on the cake!!

Times moving on....

2011-03-23T20:35:00.000-07:00

Did you know that in 8 months my boy will be home...

Did you know that in 3 months my boy will be graduating and putting in his mission papers...

Did you know I am starting to get a little emotional about it all.

L.O.V.E.

2011-02-20T19:04:00.000-08:00

WE LOVE the people of Chile!!

These sweet friends are from Jordan's last area of La Corvi. He was transferred 3 weeks ago to a new area called Esperenza and the people of Corvi have missed him so much that they traveled a hour and a half to go see and surprise him. They also brought him letters, candies and pictures from the ward members.

Pipe (the one on the right) said that many of the members in Corvi wanted to go visit Jordan soon!! The bishop joked and said that their ward would be empty if all those who missed and loved Jordan went to see him.

It totally melts our hearts to see the people love him as much as we do.

My little CHEF...

2011-01-16T19:48:00.000-08:00

One evening Jordan and his companion went to his momita's home to make treats for them. Not exactly sure what it was but I think scones. They were kind enough to send me pictures and a video of my little chef.

I especially LOVE the ORANGE apron!!

Football Banquet 2010...Most Improved Player

2010-12-15T21:34:00.000-08:00

We ended the football season with a great football banquet!! We had lots of players and family show up to pay tribute to this years team. (about 250 or so)

Banners I made for each side of the windows....

Matt was awarded several awards which included...2nd team All-Region, Black Knight (for having a 3.5 GPA or higher and leadership skills), Letterman's and...

Most Improved Defensive Player of the year!!!

We are so proud of him!!!

Matt presented Coach Medina with his coaches gift. They had a love/hate relationship...but created some great memories.

Some of the seniors that played many years together.

Such a great season....and memories that will be remembered for many years to come.

We love our "Boys of Fall" 2010

Isaac

2010-11-16T22:43:00.000-08:00

This is one of Jordan's best friends Isaac Bell.

This picture was taken right before Jordan left on his mission

Isaac was called to serve in the Lima Peru mission. He has been there since August. This past week he collapsed and went unconscious. He has a very rare and serious virus that has left him in a coma. It has attacked his muscles and nerves. We are asking for prayers on behalf of Isaac, his family and Jordan. (who is pretty upset about this).

On Tuesday night I received a call from Isaac's dad who said that Isaac did respond to some touch today and he moved his arms and legs a little. The most touching part was when he told me that Isaac had a few tears running down his face and especially when they read something Jordan had written to him.

It has been amazing to see what faith and power that Isaac's missionary friends have had on him. He has an Army of Missionaries praying for him throughout the world. I feel like the one praying the hardest (besides his family) is in Chile.

We love you Isaac!!

Please get better soon.

Life of a missionary in La Corvi

2010-11-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

What does a missionary in La Corvi do all day....

They celebrate their birthday with the members...

Get drenched as they walk the streets....

Climb big mountains on P-day (enough to be sore for a few days after)...

Have district meetings...

Hand out candy on Halloween (even though they are homesick and want to be out trick or treating themselves...)

Pound the payments to find the lost souls of Chile who are waiting to hear about our Heavenly Father.

Aren't missionaries just the best!!

What a Stud!!

2010-10-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would let you know that #14 is a stud. Enough said.

Senior Night...Boys of Fall

2010-10-16T13:37:00.000-07:00

I can't hardly believe that after so many years of football....we are down to our final games. This was our last home game and senior night. I am so proud of this team and what they have accomplished this year.

More importantly I am so honored to be #14's mom.

Matt is one incredible young man and I am proud of how hard he has worked over the years on his sports.

I am also proud that he was named defensive player of the week last week!! Way to go Matt!!

He is always a determined player, a fighter and a class act.

This is one proud mom....loving her #14!!

So Far Away...But So Close to Home

2010-10-13T15:24:00.000-07:00

How can you be a million miles away and yet be so close to home? This week Jordan emailed us pictures of his companion and two other Elders serving in Chile. Three of the four Elders went to Northridge High School and one went to Bonneville. (Thus the school hand signs in the pictures)

Then later that week Jordan went to visit some members in his new area La Corvi. The members wanted to see Jordan's pictures from home. Then the family pulled out pictures of former Elders that have served in the area. All of the sudden Jordan sees a picture of our neighbor Kyle Israelsen who lives across the street and served there quite a few years ago....Amazing!! (He is holding the picture of Kyle)

Isn't it wonderful how the church can be all over the world and you can send your son a million miles away but it makes us feel like we are all just one and so close to home.

Mission Update

2010-10-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

Elder Hunsaker has enjoyed serving the last few months in Santa Julia. This is just the tip of some of the great experiences he has had:

Sang in a Stake Celebration with the other Elders in his District for Chile's Independance Day...can't quite believe I am seeing him singing. LOL

Celebrated Chile's Independance Day with ton's of BBQ's

And even had a couple of baptisms....

He has now been transferred to La Corvi in the area Quillota. We are anxious to see pictures and hear experiences of his new area!! By the way his new companion is going to be Elder Adams who actually went to Northridge High with Jordan and is on his last 6 weeks of his mission. Jordan is pretty excited to have him as a companion :)

Last of Firsts

2010-08-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

I am experiencing the "Last of Firsts" or "First of Lasts" this year. It is all starting with Matt's (my baby) "Last" picture of his "First" day of school. It is fun he will be a senior but not so fun for mom that he will be a senior. It will be a year of "Lasts" which makes me sad....but also a "First" for a whole new season of life. For right now....I will enjoy his "First" day of school picture even though it is the "Last" one I take of his school years (college just isn't the same)....his "First" starting varsity football game of the 2010 season even though it is his "Last" year to play....his "First" at being a senior....

OK, I will go get my tissues now!!

Best of Friends since they were born....Sam and Matt....Dang, I love these two!!

Relief??

2010-08-11T14:36:00.000-07:00

So awhile ago I posted that something was going to happen....well it did. I was called to be the Relief Society President. Why? I have no stinking idea!! I have been so overwhelmed with the call, work (two jobs), football boosters and just being a wife and mom.

Is my house a mess?? Yes. Do I get my dishes done? No. Do I have to talk A LOT on the phone?Yes. Is everyone happy with this change in our ward? No. Do I have anxiety, ulcers, melt downs, tears and sometimes depression? YES!!

But guess what....through it all I have the BEST HUSBAND, SONS, MOTHER, and FRIENDS to help pull me through. The best person I have is HEAVENLY FATHER. He has truly blessed us since this calling that I could never doubt his blessings or serving him. We now have a permanent job, benefits, another car (no more sharing for Matt and me), good health AND I have a missionary being protected over in a scary area...What more could I ask for!!

As a friend said to me....If the Lord brings you to it, He will see you through it.

I love a parade

2010-08-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

The Northridge football team, cheerleaders, student body officers, band and ROTC all participated in the South Weber Parade. They had a lot of fun with cheers, throwing candy, water balloons, funny hats (OK, only two had funny hats and that of course would be Matt and Sam) and just plain great memories!! As their banner said...."NHS football U"KNIGHT"ED we stand....and that's what they all were....united as a school!! It was such a fun day.

In his element....

2010-08-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

We went to our neighbor DeAnn's cabin for a summer party. They have a one year old horse that they are starting to break and Larry took the opportunity to give a few pointers and thoroughly enjoyed being around horses again....he truly was in his element.

Summer Fun

2010-08-03T07:49:00.000-07:00

Matt and 6 other friends went to the Eichmeier's cabin over the 24th of July to celebrate Kaden's birthday. They had a couple of really fun days boating, playing cards, hanging out and just plain having a great time!!

Thankful

2010-07-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for sweet little Hermana's that keep my son fed.

Quoting from Jordan's email, "This is Hermana le Ping. She is the littlest old lady and she talks so quiet but she makes theeeeeeeee biggest lunches! She says she needs to make a lot for the missionaries because they walk all day. She had already given me a huge bowl of beans and sausage that filled me up and then she came out with this second plate and then dessert!! I literally felt sick after I ate so much!!"

Oh thank you sweet Hermana le Ping!

Eagle Scout

2010-07-12T06:50:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Matt on becoming an Eagle Scout!! We are so proud of him and his desire to obtain this award...even when asked, "What was your hardest badge to earn?" Matt replied "Plumbing"....what was your easiest..."Plumbing". Gotta love this kid and his sense of humor.

Videos that make me smile!!

2010-07-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

A sweet family in Chile took videos of Jordan and his companion Elder Mower and put them on facebook. Luckily Elder Mowers brother got them to download for me so I could put them on our blog. Elder Mower is coming home in two weeks and lives in Sandy so we are planning to go to his Homecoming!! These two boys have become great friends and I think you can see why!!

The new me....

2010-06-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

Not quite sure what got in to me when I went to get my hair colored today and I told her I wanted to go a little darker...not sure I meant this dark....might take some getting use to.

Pure Delight

2010-06-28T11:25:00.000-07:00

This just plain makes me laugh hysterically!!

Quoting from Jordan's email today..."We got to go down to Vina today to have Elder Mowers foot checked out. We have to go like 2 times a week and after a record breaking chicken and rice for lunch every day for about two weeks...We got permission to go to this restricted area to go to Subway!! I have never tasted anything so good in my life and I just can't wait for the day when I get home and can eat a Jr. bacon cheeseburger from Wendy's!"

This is his first Subway in the 7 months he has been there....and it just makes me smile.

I miss that boy!!

Do you know how much I love him...

2010-06-19T20:28:00.000-07:00

OK...this post is NOT just cause it is Father's Day but because I truly LOVE this man!!

I have been wanting a new camera for a long time. My camera just hasn't been cutting it lately and with it being Matt's senior year and last year of sports I really wanted a good camera. Well, of course this year has not been the best financially for us...but we are getting back slowly....so to my surprise I came downstairs early this morning to get everything ready to go to BYU and Matt's 7 on 7 football tournament and saw a box on the table with a note. At first I thought it was something Matt had done for Larry for Fathers Day....until closer inspection. The note that said, "Happy Fathers Day...We love you!" and right there was a brand new camera!!!

My sweet husband has been saving up his money from his extra job as a supervisor for Layton City Rec. to buy me something I really really wanted during the start of football. What is more is that he gives it to me on "HIS" fathers day weekend. I was so deeply touched and can't even begin to explain how much I love him. Thank you Larry for being the best husband, father and friend in the whole wide world!!

PS...I would have taken a picture of my new camera but I was using it to take Larry's picture. LOL

Pick your battles

2010-06-18T07:07:00.000-07:00

So I went to bed one night before Matt came home...and when I woke up in the morning his hair was uuummmmm....blondish/orangish!! A week or so ago he came home with a mohawk and now this!! It is a good thing I love this kid and that he is so good. That morning he got up and went and did a service project with our stake. (Sam and Matt didn't stay long...but the effort to go was there). I guess I would much rather have a blond, mohawk kid doing service than the alternative.

Anyone have some hair dye to dye it back though?!?!

Matt with his friends at Youth Conference.

These two are so weird!! Sam is Matt's best friend and hairdresser....I think Sam needs to find another profession other than hair...and maybe fix his own mohawk too. LOL (Welcome to football season...this happens every year before football camp)

Me...

2010-06-13T22:23:00.000-07:00

This is ME...Do I look old? Do I look frazzled? Do I look like I can handle the world? If you look real close I DO look old, frazzled, and feel like I have the weight of the world on my shoulders. I work two jobs and I am the football booster president and I think I should have the look on my face that my sweet niece Emmy has on her face.

Why all this you ask? Well...that is the burning question that I am asking myself and will share with you in a few weeks. Until then....all I can say is hummmmm.....really???

Cali

2010-06-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

This is my sweet niece Cali and her darling little girls...the cute boy is mine (LOL). Whenever I have a blog, camera, or picture question, Cali is my go to girl. She is so talented and kind to put up with all my questions. I loved how she helped me so that my pictures will be bigger.

Thanks Cali...I LOVE it!!

Here we go....

2010-06-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

It is that time again...the start of football season!! We have had two 7 on 7 tournaments (2 more to go) and have started off well! We won the first tournament and took 2nd (out of 32 teams) in the big Weber State tournament. What a fun way to start the season off....now for football camps, more tournaments, fundraisers, 2 a day practices...let the fun begin!!

Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-31T09:35:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we celebrated Mom's 82nd birthday with Linda and Ralph's family. We had a nice brunch and lots of visiting. We then all headed down to the cemetery to put flowers on Dad's and Jacob's grave. I think this is the first time that the family has all been down to the cemetery together since Dad died. It was a very nice day to spend together as a family.

Also today we honor the men and women who have allowed us to have this family time by serving and protecting our country. Thank you also to my own father who served in the Navy. I love you Dad!

Jordan's First Baptism

2010-05-25T06:12:00.001-07:00

Meet Pedro Romo. This is the sweet boy who's life will hopefully be changed for the rest of his life from two Elders. One which happens to be my son!

Quoting Jordan's email: We had a baptism!!!! It was pretty funny. So Pedro is way short especially for his age. We were going into the font and he was on the last step and he just kind of stopped and hesitated to get in. I looked back at him and the water was already at his chest. When he took the last step he was on his tippy toes and the water was to his neck! ha ha...everyone starting laughing and stuff, it was pretty funny. So while I was doing the baptism I kind of held him up...and then just barely dunked him and he was already all the way under. Everybody thought that it was pretty funny.

After the baptism Elder Hunsaker and Elder Cooper had gotten a cake for Pedro, his sister (both of who's birthdays it was) and also the mother who's birthday was the next day. They were really touched by the gesture of a simple cake. Even the bishop kept thanking them. As Jordan put it, "It was a pretty tight night!"

Elder Cooper, Pedro's family and Elder Hunsaker

The week before they had another baptism. This was Jordan's first to have out in the field. Elder Cooper did the baptism and Elder Hunsaker gave a talk at Ceasar's baptism. (He is 11 years old)

Elder Hunsaker's Videos

2010-05-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

This past week Jordan sent home some fun stuff from Chile...an apron, ring, necklace, money and his picture/video card from his camera. On the card was some videos that were so fun to watch. I love hearing him in the background speaking Spanish!! There were about 14 videos...I wont bore you with all of them....even though I want too!! He honestly just brings a smile to my face. I LOVE my missionary!!

Listen to his Spanish...not to bad!

After the earthquake (kind of fun to see his apartment in Quintero)

English class

Lost with Elder Haney (one of his favorite missionaries from the MTC). They both had only been out 2 months or so....

PROM 2010

2010-04-22T06:17:00.001-07:00

Matt and Mikarie had a blast at Prom. They started off the day with a BBQ and games at the park. Then they met for pictures with their group and parents, went to Salt Lake for dinner, then back to Weber State for the dance. They capped the night off with an outdoor movie at the Deckers. What a great day full of fun memories. If I do say so myself....they were stunning together!!

One Happy Missionary

2010-04-12T17:15:00.001-07:00

Elder Hunsaker enjoying what he loves the best....ocean and palm trees. (Well, minus the palm trees but you get what I mean)

Elder Hunsaker got to go on a 2 day split with Elder Haney...one of his favorite missionaries from his MTC district. It is their goal to be companions by the end of their mission. Can you see the happiness in Jordan's smile. He said it was one of his best two days yet!!

Trees

2010-04-09T12:02:00.001-07:00

Nineteen years ago we got some little tree starts from Larry's house in Honeyville. We planted and enjoyed the shade for many years but unfortunately all good things must come to and end. The trees have started to die off the last year or so so we decided to cut them down this spring. We got the chainsaw up and running...Matt climbing the trees to tie on the rope and we were ready to go.

It was quite the excitement for all the kids and our great neighbors were eager and willing to help. The funny thing is is now we are all having a hard time finding our homes since the trees were every ones landmark.

Before

After

Basketball Banquet

2010-04-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

The basketball season has come to an end and with it came the basketball banquet. Of course it had to be on my birthday...great way to celebrate right?? LOL.

Even though we had a rough season it was still a nice evening. They handed out awards to the seniors with the most points scored, most steals etc. Then they started handing out awards to the best offensive player, defensive player and so on...it was really nice for the seniors. They passed out the Most Improved Player and Brookes Carter went up and got it...then the coach said...we couldn't decide between two players on this so we are going to pass out another Most Improved. He then went on to talk about trying to decide whether to keep this kid on the team but thought they needed too and how hard this kid came out and practiced. He did everything he was asked to do and ended up starting most games. He went on for a few more minutes (even more then he did for the first kid that got the award) and then said this is presented to Matt Hunsaker. HOLY COW!!! Wow...that was such a nice surprise especially since he was the only JV player to get an award. Way to go Matt!!

The funny thing is Matt has been trying to decide if he really wanted to play next year or not...(Larry and I want him too so bad). So now I think the pressure is on a little more to tryout after getting this award.

So proud of my 6' 2" basketball stud!!

Some of the JV team with Coach Duckworth

Basketball friends: Carson, Matt, Mike and Blake

4 months

2010-03-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

Elder Hunsaker has been gone 4 months....Can you believe it? At times it is so slow but others it is just flying by. So in the last two months since he has been in Chile he has been bit by a dog, seen HUGE spiders, eaten horse, stomach and who knows what else, experienced a 8.8 earthquake, ran for higher ground from a tsunami warning, has been given the gift of tongues and had the time of his life!! Isn't it great being a missionary!!

A few of these horse and wagons are driven around town.

A view of the beautiful ocean in Quintero.

Elder Church, Elder Hunsaker and Hermana Clara. This sweet lady feeds them quite a bit :)

On Shaky Ground

2010-03-03T17:40:00.000-08:00

In Isaiah 41:10 it says, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

How powerful are these words as Saturday morning we got word that there had been an 8.8 earthquake in Chile. By the time I turned on the TV the earthquake had happened but they were worried of tsunami's. Knowing that Jordan and his companion live on a pennisula my heart sank. Please Heavenly Father let him be on high ground. As I watched CNN they showed the massive destruction in Concepcion...200 miles from where Jordan is...but then they interviewed people staying in Vina del Mar which is Jordan's mission and how these people had to run out of buildings and the destruction around them. Oh how my heart sank. I cried and trembled as I feared for Jordan and his companion. Larry was at work and I called him to let him know...and then my phone rang and rang and rang. My cell phone had text messages after text messages. I was being carried by the love and concern of many around us.

I had to go to work that morning and I feared to leave home. I wanted to know what was going on but I had an obligation to fulfill. I panicked at work and they were so kind to allow me to have my phone on me at all times and to check the internet for emails from the mission president, Jordan, the church or whoever. Larry was able to come home a short time later and keep me updated on nothing....no emails, no word, no anything. Around 1:00 I got a text saying that KSL had reported that all missionaries had been accounted for.

You would think that that would give you relief to hear that he was accounted for but it doesn't. I appreciated the fact and knowing that he had been accounted for...but was he without a home, water, food, clothes...how was my son living? But yet through the tears and fears I felt peace in a weird sort of way.

I had a couple missionary mom's email me Sunday and tell me they had just gotten a call from their son's and I should expect one soon...as the mission president asked each missionary to call home. Well, FINALLY Sunday night we got a call that said, "I am alive and ok. I love you guys. I felt the quake...is Johnie ok (his friend is in Santiago)...We have no water and the electricity just barely came on...I have to go...I will try and call tomorrow." Oh the flood of relief to hear his voice and know that he was ok.

On Monday we got an email which we didn't expect. He said, "I tell you...I have had more crazy stuff happen in one month then in my whole 19 years of life". He also said that there wasn't as much damage where he was at. He said that the members were all really worried about him and his companion and invited them to their homes and fought over who got to feed them. He said, "I don't get why cause I am pretty sure we were a lot better off then them but it was really cool of them". Oh how I love the people of Chile who care for my son!!

After this I didn't expect any more but Monday night we got a 5 minute phone call from him. He said that his companion was waking him up and he could feel the shaking but he wasn't quite awake. At first he thought someone was breaking in to their place. He said that his bed was in the middle of the room and that their tables had slid across the room. Some stuff had fallen off the walls but other than that not much damage to their pension. (This is what they call a home). After the quake they went back to bed and slept through most of the aftershocks. It wasn't until the next morning that they found out how bad it was. There were some buildings down in there area but not as bad as in Vina del Mar. (They went to the mission home on monday).

I have thought a lot about it since the quake and now know that Heavenly Father was holding us and protecting over Jordan. He gave me peace (even through my tears) and he gave Jordan peace to sleep through the aftershocks. He is always there for the peace in this trembling world...we just need to look and listen and feel that peace and comfort. I know that he protected over my son that day as he did all the other missionaries. He gave me peace in knowing that the Chileans love Jordan as much as his mother does in making sure he was ok...physically and spiritually. I know Heavenly Father probably feels the same as he waits and watches us...waiting to hear that we have made righteous choices. That we have chosen to follow him and gain that peace.

Fear not I am with thee...oh be not dismayed. For I am thy God....and I will give you peace.

Thank you Heavenly Father for watching over my boy!!

Matt + Mikarie = Sweethearts Dance

2010-02-22T12:53:00.001-08:00

More Chile pictures!!

2010-02-16T21:21:00.000-08:00

Jordan emailed us a few pictures from his mission!! It was so fun to see his "life" as he is living it now :)

Elder Church...Jordan's first companion and trainer in Chile

Playing soccer with some of the natives

The spider they found in their apartment...after they killed it with a whole can of bug spray to make sure it was dead!!

The house he helped build for a family

First Picture in Chile

2010-01-30T08:10:00.001-08:00

Dear Hunsaker Family,

We would like to thank you for supporting your son and for allowing him to serve in the Chile Viña del Mar Mission. We want you to know that he is doing very well and enjoyed the first week here. We are very blessed to have such a great young man and look forward to serving along with him. Upon arriving, he took a picture with President and Sister Gillespie in front of the famous flower clock here in Viña del Mar. Attached is picture which you may share with family and friends.

Elder Albrecht
Secretary
Viña del Mar Mission

MORP

2010-01-23T19:40:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago the doorbell rang and there was a cute snowman on our porch with a note saying..."There's "SNOW" other "MAN" I would like to go to MORP with then you." Mikarie Kelsey had asked Matt to go with her...It was darling!!

The theme for MORP was sports so their group all went as baseball players...the girls made up fun shirts with MORP and Northridge on the front and their last names and "10" (for 2010) on the back.

This is the other couple they drove with...Kaden and Conner

The whole big group (minus a few who didn't make it in time) before they went to dinner. It was so fun to see the group in all the different color shirts.

The "Call" and more MTC

2010-01-21T17:00:00.000-08:00

On Monday...we finally got the "call". We were so excited to talk to Jordan and hear is voice...what I didn't expect was the emotion I would feel with it. I thought for sure he would say "Hey fam..." or something is Spanish but it was "Mooommm" you know like that little voice that calls out to you in the night. It totally melted my heart and made me cry. Of course the phone was instantly handed to Larry while I tried to control my emotions. (Let's go with that I was really trying to get the other phone on speaker so we could all hear...LOL) I heard him say, "oh brother mom..." which made me laugh. We then spent the next hour and a half talking to a very humble and grown up Jordan. He filled us in on life and the MTC and we did the same. It was so wonderful to hear his growth. We had the opportunity to hear from him again shortly after that when his plane had been delayed and then again when he had a layover in Dallas. THREE times we got to talk to him that day!!

On the last time he called a couple of his friends were here to talk to him. One asked him to tell us a cool story. He said that it actually had just happened. On his flight down to Dallas he was sitting by a 20 year old guy in the military. The guy asked Jordan what is was all dressed up for and Jordan explained he was going on his mission. Well, I guess the guy ended up asking questions the whole flight...Jordan said he didn't have to ask him any cause the guy kept asking. Right before Jordan left the MTC he bought a small Book of Mormon to take with him...well, he asked the guy if he would like it and the guy said yes!! He also gave him a referral card. How cool is that!!

The hardest part was saying goodbye. I once again ached at not seeing him for two years but couldn't be prouder of what he is doing and accomplishing. He survived the MTC, was a Zone leader, and great friend and example to all of us.

The next day I got in the mail another memory card filled with over 100 pictures!! What a good boy I have...ha ha ha!! LOVE IT!!!

Elder Hunsaker and the "Map"

His District showing where they are all going

I don't know whoever would have taught them that move for a picture...LOL

His district and their matching ties from their trainer

His Itinerary...how cool is that!!

6 more days....

2010-01-12T14:35:00.000-08:00

6 more days till we get to hear a ring a ding ding and a..."Hello Family...it's Elder Hunsaker!!!" I can't wait and no I am not just a little excited I am ECSTATIC!!

2009 In Review

2009-12-31T17:33:00.000-08:00

Even though 2009 has been one of the hardest years of our lives, it has also been one full of excitement and fun. A family vacation to Hawaii, Larry's trip to Alaska, graduation, football, basketball, a mission call to Chile and just everyday memories. It has been a year full of wonderful memories.

MTC

2009-12-27T16:48:00.001-08:00

We got the very best Christmas present on Christmas Eve...a memory card with over 90 pictures of Elder Hunsaker at the MTC!! Just to share a few of our favorites...

Elder Hunsaker and Elder Kent...his companion from California

Elder Kent, Elder Hunsaker and Elder Hewlett (He loves Elder Hewlett...he is one of his roommates)

The "Name Badge"

Some days the MTC drives him up the wall...LOL

Elder Smith and Elder Hunsaker (these two grew up together)

I think this is his zone/district but not sure

Crutches....can you guess how....yep basketball!!

A Missionary Christmas Poem

2009-12-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas I skipped the sales after Thanksgiving
The thrill just wasn't there.
No pictures taken with Santa Claus,
my decorating has no flair.
His presents are shoes, shirts, and ties, two suits and socks--no fun.
I've bought him all white clothes because...
This year I'm giving Christ my son.

I've spent more time in the temple,
Felt strength come from His words.
I've reread November's Ensign, and my testimony stirred.
Our family prays more frequently.
My tears are quick to run.
Abraham seems closer because,
This year I'm giving Christ my son.

I wonder how those Lamanite mothers gave their sons to war.
Or how the Pioneers chose Zion - their sacrifice was so much more.
My loss will be his presence, I'll miss his smile a ton.
For two years we will pray for him.
I'm giving Christ my son.

I stare at his face when he's not looking.
I memorize his eyes, their shine.
He's always hungered for the part of him that makes his soul divine.
The stories and lessons he always heard.
His choice and mine are one.
I'll put my faith in God's hand.
This year, I'm giving Him my son.

Past gifts have lost their glitter,
I think I finally understand.
Christ's birth should be celebrated by giving Him a hand.
It's because I know Christ lives and reigns,
That all his packing is done.
My gift has taken years to make.
This year...I'm giving Christ my son.

Elder Hunsaker

2009-11-18T17:28:00.000-08:00

The Family (the night he was set apart)

Grandma Lu and Elder Hunsaker

Saying Goodbye to Coco

A brothers farewell...(this one hurts my heart)

Brothers

A quiet walk

Elder Hunsaker at the MTC

Getting ready to go...

The final wave...

Farewell my son...may Heavenly Father bless you and keep you safe. I love you with all my heart.

A mothers thought...

2009-11-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

What does a missionary mom do the week before her son leaves (besides stress out)...

1. Watches her son quietly sleeping early in the morning.
2. Melts when he puts his arm around her to tease her in the middle of the store.
3. Savors the quiet moments rubbing his back while we sit on my bed to watch a TV show.
4. Sheds a tear when he plays his silly ukulele from Hawaii...he only knows one song and I will so miss hearing it.
5. Take every hug he will give
6. Love when 6 friends are hanging out at our house laughing and teasing each other for the Jordan Hunsaker farewell weekend
7. Pray that I have thought him enough....
8. Pray that he can have the courage to fulfill a mission.
9. Remember not to look at baby pictures...that rips your heart out.
10. Soak in every minute, moment and memory that I have left with him before he goes to serve the Lord.

Congratulations Matt!!

2009-11-13T18:44:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Matt for making the 2009-2010 Northridge JV basketball team!! Way to go Matt...we can't wait to see you hoop 'em up!!

I love to see the Temple

2009-11-07T18:26:00.000-08:00

There is nothing better than being in the temple with your future missionary son....I highly recommend it!!

Happy 19th Birthday Jordan

2009-10-30T09:14:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to my handsome 19 year old today!! I love you to infinity and beyond!!

Mis-sion-a-ry (noun)

2009-10-20T22:19:00.000-07:00

Someone who leaves their family for two years so that others can be with their family for Eternity.

I have to keep reminding myself of this quote lately as my heart is just aching big time that Jordan will be leaving in less than a month. I truly will miss this boy with every fiber of my being...but he is doing it for other families and for the Lord so that is what is important.

Happy Birthday Coco!!

2009-10-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Today is our puppy's first birthday!! Ok so I am obnoxious putting pictures of her on the blog but she deserves a birthday wish too!!

Coco when we first got her. (She is actually 2 months old here)

Happy Birthday Coco-bean!! (I swear it looks like she is smiling)

Homecoming 2009

2009-10-10T20:12:00.001-07:00

What a fun ending to Homecoming Week!! After a great football win against Roy on Friday (35 to 0) the gang all got together on Saturday for a fun day and night at the dance. Half of the group (Matt's group) went miniature golfing in the afternoon and then later in the evening they all gathered at Blake's house for pictures before dinner. There were 25 couples all together in their group but not all made it to the pictures before....good thing, I could barely get them all in the picture as it was. LOL. They ALL went to dinner at Ruby River and then to the dance....what fun High School memories!!

My handsome young man!!

Matt and Alyssa (We were soooo happy to find a shirt and tie that matched her dress perfectly!!)

The group

The couple close up...

The "Boys"

Matt and Brock...doing who knows what?

Carson, Blake and Matt

Let the shopping begin...

2009-09-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

Eight weeks from today I will have said goodbye to my son at the MTC and he will have spent the first night of the "Best two years" of his life without me :( Well, since we only have a short time left....let the shopping begin!!

Traumatic Evening

2009-09-22T21:13:00.001-07:00

Ok...note to self...when you can't find the puppy and then find her out chewing on "something"...go check right away. I found Coco had "stolen" from one of the neighbors a tube of Desitine Cream. She had eaten through the tube and most of the cream. She had it all over her legs and mouth...and smelled pretty strong of Desitine. Well...a short time later she started to throw up...and throw up...and throw up...and well, the other end also. (Not to be graphic but you get my point.) She threw up twice in my house but made it outside for all the other times. Then she just layed around and hardly moved...making me pretty nervous. You could tell that she just didn't feel good.

Now...as I am worrying over Coco our carbon monoxide detector went off and wouldn't quit. Oh great...frantically calling my neighbor to see who I call...(she just had to call a few months earlier)...she says, "Check your batteries." Ok....so I have NO double A batteries in my house....I am sooooo not prepared for an emergency can you tell...What an eye opener!! I ran to the neighbors and borrowed some batteries from them and also an extra CO detector from another neighbor. The batteries were the problem thank heavens!!

Man it has been a traumatic night...and also, an eye opening experience that I need to go through some "basics" around our house and see what we have and need. Also, I need to take heed to council from a General Authority that came a few months ago and talked to our stake and then our stake president reminded us again Sunday to have a GOOD supply of water!!

By the way when I ran to the neighbors...Coco ran with me...and jumped around a dog out for a walk....I think she is feeling better and over it for the most part.

I have had enough for tonight....I am going to bed!!

Happy Birthday Matt--What a winner!!

2009-09-10T17:57:00.001-07:00

It is Matt's 17th birthday today! What does one do on your 17th birthday....well, you get up early for school...

In the afternoon you play in a JV football game...

With five minutes left in the game you have the score tied....catch an interception and run it back 25 yards for the touchdown....and WIN the game!!

What a great present for Matt!! Happy Birthday Football Stud!!

Future Missionaries....Party On!!

2009-08-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

Ok...so this was Jordan and Kolby before Jordan opened his mission call. They were "killing" time and trying to get Jordan's mind off of the call. I laughed as they came out dressed funky...and Kolby said, "the future missionaries are off to golf!!" It just brought a smile to my face.

So many of you have commented on the "party" we had for Jordan's mission call. Well if you know Jordan of course you know that he is Mr. Social. Anyone he saw was invited to the "opening" of his call. I LOVED it!! It was so fun sharing the day with 45 people in my back yard and 9 more that came later that night. Yes it was quite a party but we did it Jordan's way...and we couldn't be happier!!

Called to Serve

2009-08-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Elder Hunsaker:

You are hereby called to serve as a missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You are assigned to labor in the Chile Vina del Mar Mission. It is anticipated that you will serve for a period of 24 months.

You should report to the Provo Missionary Training Center on Wednesday, November 18, 2009. You will prepare to preach the gospel in the Spanish language.

(Jordan HAD to hold his cousin Kenlee...I think it calmed his nerves!)

There In!!

2009-08-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

That's right...the mission papers are in to Salt Lake and now the nail biting begins!! We should hopefully hear within the next week or two. We will be having a contest to guess where Jordan is going...let us know where you think he will go within the states and outside of the states.

We are so thrilled for Jordan and we know he will be a great missionary where ever he is called.

P.S. Yes, I am sick to my stomach...yes, I have all ready shed tears....yes, this is hard on a mom...and yes, I have never been so proud of him and his decision!!

Summer Fun 2009

2009-08-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

We have had a fun summer so far with Matt's sports camps, lagoon, swim parties, fishing, band concerts, Jordan becoming an Elder, parades, BBQ's and just hanging out with family and friends. What great memories!!

Alaska Adventure

2009-07-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Larry had a great opportunity to go to Alaska with his brother-in-law Larry Knight. They have a group of about ten that tries to go each year for a few days and catch a year supply of salmon. This year started off VERY slow and they didn't catch anything the first two days. But on day 3 they were able to catch some halibut and salmon. This is always something Larry looks forward too and he has a great time in his true element. He LOVES to fish and this is one way he can get away from the cares of the world and just enjoy life.

Larry and his BIG catch...a 40 pound salmon (45 inches long)

Larry and Mike Shipsey. I am told that Mike is a "famous" outdoors man that has been published in lots of magazines and has hunted and fished some big "trophy" animals. He ended up being their guide that day.

Larry and his other brother Larry....LOL

Mitch, Larry and Larry weighing in their big catches.Our Larry won this one...but the largest salmon caught this trip was 70 pounds by Larry Knights nephew Cody.

Deja Vu

2009-07-24T16:09:00.001-07:00

Larry's brother Kip has two boys, Jaxon and Stockton, who are the same age apart that Jordan and Matt are. We marvel how it is a Deja Vu watching these two little boys act just like Jordan and Matt...It really is the circle of life. The funniest thing is that they are a "salt and pepper" look just like our boys. (Blond hair and Brown hair)

Jordan and Matt LOVE these two little guys and Jaxon and Stockton ADORE their big cousins.

Jordan and Jaxon

Matt and Stockton

Of course do you think they "really" posed that nicely for the pictures the first time?!?

Congratulations Craig

2009-07-10T11:09:00.001-07:00

Any of you that know Jordan...surely knows Craig. These two boys could cause quite the bit of trouble with all there fun, outgoing personalities. There was more than once that Lori (Craigs mom) and I would worry about these two and what they were up to...riding a shopping cart down Antelope Drive, getting in a wreck at the Wendy's drive up window, hopping ALL the neighbors fences while the mom's were at girls camp...and the list goes on and on. After years of football games, vacations and who knows what else...these two always added excitement.

Most of you know the story that shortly after our trip to Hawaii, Craig was in a motorcycle accident and had a traumatic brain injury. Life was touch and go for quite some time...and after 109 days in the hospital, many blessings,prayers,faith and hope...Craig came home.

So fast forward...now through the pictures of time.....

Craig and Jordan in Hawaii

Becky and Craig at his "going home" party at the hospital

To the best day ever...some 2 years or so later....Craig receiving his mission call!!!

Craig will be going to the South Dakota Rapid City Mission on Sept. 9th.

CONGRATULATIONS CRAIG....WE COULDN'T BE PROUDER!!!!

Blast from the Past

2009-06-15T20:24:00.000-07:00

We found this picture of Matt at his 6th grade graduation. The "plumbers" band closed the graduation that day with quite a number...it was one of the funniest thing I have ever watched...seeing as they really didn't know how to play the instruments. Larry was a little worried that they might take over his gig's but I don't think his band needs to worry. It was fun at the time to see him take after his dad...and he is so dang cute and young!! It was a fun blast from the past to come across.

The Champions!!

2009-06-12T21:17:00.001-07:00

Congratulations goes to Matt and his JV basketball team who won the UVU basketball camp championship!!!! After having a rough season this is sooooooo exciting for them.

By the way he got home at 4:50 from basketball camp...changed his clothes...and was out the door at 5:00 for a 7 on 7 football camp at Woods Cross. This is after playing 4 basketball games today.....I think he will sleep good tonight!!

P.S. On Saturday, Matt's team went on to win the 7 on 7 football championship. Ok not to brag...but I WILL...the other team had one last play to score, they threw up a hail mary and in the clump of boys jumps up Matt and almost intrecepts it but then bats it away from the other team...thus winning the game!!!!!!!!

The kid makes me tired....

2009-06-10T10:05:00.000-07:00

I wish I had an ounce of Matt's energy. The last week of school he had NR basketball camp at the school, then went to 7 on 7 football practice then back to help at the basketball camp for the younger kids or off to work umpiring baseball.

Then on Saturday he played in a 7 on 7 Weber State football tournament...left Monday for UVU basketball camp for the week. He will get home Friday just in time for another 7 on 7 football tournament Friday night and Saturday morning in Woods Cross.

Honestly, I don't know how he does it...but so proud of his determination and stamina to be involved!!

Hunsaker Men DON'T....

2009-06-08T15:12:00.000-07:00

According to Jordan and Matt...Hunsaker Men DON'T do laundry, toilets, dance, cry...and the list goes on and on and on and on.

Well, for future reference for my future daughter-in-laws...proof is in the picture!!

Graduation

2009-06-07T16:41:00.001-07:00

The Grad!!

Getting his diploma

The family

Proud Parents

The football gang!!

Friends

Brothers!!

Kaleb, Ben and Jordan (Best friends...the 3 Musketeers)

Congrats Jordan!! (I have a 100 more pictures we can post at a later date...LOL)

Seminary Graduation....let the ride begin!!

2009-05-31T20:38:00.001-07:00

Tonight was seminary graduation and the start of an exciting week for Jordan and his friends with all the different activities that go along with graduation. It was a very nice and spiritual meeting that represented the last 4 years of hard work and determination in attending seminary.

The gang that grew up together...Amanda, Lauren, Jordan, Dave and Ben

Craig and Jordan (boy these two use to cause trouble...LOL)

Lauren and Jordan (best of friends since they were 2 years old...also their birthdays are 4 days apart.)

Taryn and Jordan (ok...this made me laugh cause it looks like it could be their kid but it was Taryn's niece)

Jordan and Ben (Very best friends since birth!!)

The family....(please send tissues for mom for the rest of the week!)

Congratulations Jordan!!!

Smore Fun

2009-05-20T13:20:00.001-07:00

For Mother's Day we celebrated with Larry's family...Kip and Mindy and their cute kids and Grandma Betty. We also celebrated Stockton's 5th birthday. We decided it would be fun to pull out the fire pit and have smores. The kids LOVED this and Stockton couldn't get enough.

Cute birthday boy and the start of his smores...

Our expert marshmallow roaster...

Rylee and Jaxon...and yes they would eat all 3 marshmallows and come for more.

Becky and sweet baby Kenlee

It was a fun relaxing day with the family.

Testing...can it be true??

2009-05-18T14:31:00.001-07:00

So, just throwing out one of Jordan's senior pictures (tell you the story about it in a minute) to see if this blog is working. For about 2 weeks I haven't been able to see pictures on blogs including my own. I couldn't even load pictures on...see your pictures on your blog...and all that not fun stuff. Well, I came on today and suddenly there are some pictures. (Not all are up on other blogs). I sooooo don't get it.

Anyway, we went and got Jordan's senior pictures done a few weeks ago. In the process of changing shirts the photographer was snapping some of Jordan just for fun...making him feel good about what little muscle he has...anyway, when we got them back this is one that ended up being one of our favorites. To funny!! We didn't put them on the graduation announcement pictures (Jordan thought that it was showing off) but just laughed how they ended up.

Still can't believe that my baby is graduating in a few weeks. Please send tissues!!

I just don't get it....

2009-05-15T21:48:00.000-07:00

Can anyone see my pictures on your blog? I can't get my pictures to display...now I can't upload any and some of your blogs I can read but I can't see the pictures!! I don't get it....any suggestions or helps.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T19:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to a great mom and grandma!! (Do you love how they all color coordinate!)

Tennis anyone?

2009-05-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

Jordan and his friend Dave decided that they were going to try out for the tennis team after "playing" around last summer. I laughed because Jordan didn't even have a racket and borrowed Dave's dads racket. Well low and behold they made the team!!They only won one match all season but they had a great time playing...Go figure!!

WISDOM...

2009-04-24T13:40:00.001-07:00

teeth are not much fun to get out...

...unless you have Loratab to knock you out!!

Do you love the "drool" towel!!

Prom 2009

2009-04-18T19:42:00.001-07:00

The "sophomores"...going to meet the rest of their group for dinner.

Kara and Matt

The "senior" group...I think there ended up being about 19 couples but this is all that showed up for before pictures.

Jordan and Kiersten

The two Hunsaker studs...to bad their mom can't get a decent shot without the sun glaring.

Hawaiian Highlights

2009-04-17T15:57:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time in Kauai...eventually. When we first landed and was driving to the house we were staying at, we saw roosters EVERYWHERE. In fact at 4 am they let you know that they are around. Larry loved feeling like he was back on the farm.

The next shock for us was all the RAIN. Boy does it rain in Kauai. In fact it rains 365 days of the year and we were there also during the rainy season. How lucky for us...NOT!!

But once we got use to the roosters and the rain, we had a wonderful week. We rode tubes down ditches with tunnels...we had to wear headgear with lights for the tunnels. (pictures to follow later). We snuba dived, shopped, laid out on the beach, hiked, snorkled and took a raft tour of the Napali coast. This had to be one of our favorite activities as we saw dolphins, whales, turtles and seals.

It was a wonderful trip filled with great family memories.

Just saying ALOHA....

2009-04-04T05:33:00.001-07:00

We leave this morning for the beautiful island of Kauai....I was looking back at some of the pictures from 3 years ago when we went to Oahu. I can't believe how grown up my boys are now...it will be fun to compare pictures when we get back. I am so looking forward to getting away but at the same time it is bitter sweet knowing this is our last big family vacation until the boys get home from their missions (or maybe in between the two). So....we are off for some family fun. ALOHA!!!

The Countdown has Begun....

2009-03-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

Only 5 more days until Hawaii...

FYI...Larry's Band

2009-03-21T09:52:00.000-07:00

Just an FYI...mark your calendars for July 11th. Larry's band will be playing at Cherry Hills (in Kaysville). They will maybe be playing in August also...but July is a definite!!

Continuation of Jordan's Modeling Career

2009-03-18T21:30:00.000-07:00

A few blogs ago...we shared some pictures of Jordan "modeling" or as he puts it..."helping out" at a prom dress fashion show. Well, they now have some of the pictures on You-tube...so if you are totally bored and have 4 minutes take a peek. The first guy they show is Kolby, one of Jordan's best friends.

Feeling your prayers...

2009-03-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you for your prayers....we are feeling them!!!

There is a quote by Pres. Hinckley that says, "In my ninty-plus years, I have learned a secret. I have learned that when good men and women face challenges with optimism, things will always work out! Truly, things always work out! Despite how difficult circumstances may look at the momont, those you have faith and move forward with a happy spirit will find that things always work out."

So with optimism and faith we will move forward...for now we still have a job and insurance. We feel half of something is better than nothing...(meaning the major paycut). We are still looking strong for another job and hope that something will come our way soon. Thank you again for your continued prayers and support. Believe me...we feel them like we have never felt them before!!

Prayers and humility....

2009-03-14T20:16:00.000-07:00

This is very hard for me to do or to ask....so in humility, I am asking for friends and family to pray for our family. We found out friday that the economy has finally hit the Hunsaker home and Larry is either losing his job or taking a HUGE paycut. This came as a complete shock to us as we had no idea whatsoever that it was going to happen. As for now we are going to take the paycut so that we can keep the insurance...for you see we got the go ahead to start Jordan's mission papers. He needs to have his wisdom teeth out and a physical...so we feel this is what we need to do. Larry is looking for a new job as he continues to work...and hopefully this is what we will be able to do. We just found out yesterday and Monday he needs to tell his boss his decision. We really hope he will continue to let us work there with the paycut.

It is very hard for me to ask anyone for anything...but we would so appreciate your prayers for us. I am sure the Lord has something in mind for us....what I don't know...and why now...I don't know. I guess this is part of those trials we are given. We just pray we can at least get through everything for Jordan's mission.

Thank you so much for the support from our family and friends...we are eternally grateful.

Flashback

2009-03-03T16:35:00.000-08:00

Larry's band played at our ward "Sock Hop" this past Saturday night. Wow...did they do good. They go by the name Bishoprock or Flashback. Most of the members (excluding Larry, and let's keep it that way) have been a bishop or in the bishopric, thus the name Bishoprock. There have been a few times and places they played that they really couldn't use that name so...last summer they came up with "Flashback." I really wish they would play more than just ward parties and work parties...they need to start getting paid!! They have a lot of fun for a bunch of old guys getting together to relive their earlier years...and they are pretty talented too. If you ever get a chance...come "rock" with them. By the way I LOVE being Larry's groupie!!

Today I am so thankful for...

2009-02-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

Today I had a friend lose her husband to a heart attack. He was in his mid 50's. He was out of town for work and died alone in his hotel room. It comes as such a shock and makes me realize how precious life really is. So, today my heart breaks for my friend more than words can explain...but it helps me to hug my family a little tighter and thank them for being in my life.

Don't forget to tell your family how much you love them daily because you never know when it will be to late. I love you Larry, Jordan and Matt...and all the rest of my extended family!!

PS..to the Sweethearts Dance

2009-02-21T18:32:00.000-08:00

PS....to our previous blog. Poor Jordan and Matt have a mom that is a dork when it comes to pinning on corsages. Jordan ended up doing Matt's (Taylor's hands were shaking) and Kirsten Castell who had come with Mykell to pick up Jordan, had to do his. Well, she did half and I tried to finish. Why is it so hard to pin a silly flower on a shirt?

Sweethearts Dance

2009-02-21T18:27:00.000-08:00

You "sher-bet" (see previous blogs) the boys had a great time at the Sweethearts Dance. Their dates looked beautiful and I was able to actually get a couple of pictures before my batteries died in my camera. UUGGGHHHH.
The boys ended up being in the same group for the dance...how much do I love that for the pictures. On their day date they went to lunch and then laser tagging. For dinner they were going to Kobe in South Ogden and then on to the dance. Maybe I am a proud mom but I think they looked pretty handsome tonight...and I hope they had a great night filled with fun memories. By the way Matt's date was Taylor Jolley and Jordan's was Mykell Hass.

Enough!!

2009-02-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

So the last few weeks we have all gotten some snow...but I swear our area gets hit like no other. We had another 16 inches today. Our snow blower can't even blow the snow over the banks they are so high and we haven't been able to get to our mail box for a few weeks because of all the snow. (We have been using buckets in the snowbanks to collect our mail.) Our neighbor brought home is tractor tonight to get us all out of our driveways and uncover our mailboxes.

The trees were all hanging heavy also...so Jordan got up on ours and our neighbors shed and shook the snow off and then he jumped off the sheds into the snowbanks to get down.

All I have to say is ENOUGH...or else I am moving to Hawaii.

Cute Valentine Pillow...

2009-02-11T11:49:00.001-08:00

See Cute Valentine Pillow I made...

See cute hole in Valentine Pillow....

See cute puppy by Valentine Pillow...hummmmm......

The Color PURPLE...

2009-02-10T07:55:00.000-08:00

So every girl Jordan goes to a dance with wears the color PURPLE!! I told him for the Sweethearts dance that NO PURPLE was allowed. So...he comes home yesterday laughing and says "Guess what color Mykell's dress is?"...Please don't tell me purple?!? YEP..that is the color. Now, I don't have anything against the color purple, but do you know how many shades of purple there are? Well...there are enough shades that any of the ties or shirts he has from the previous dances DON'T match the color that the next girl has!! I swear for PROM he better tell the girl straight up that NO purple is allowed. (By the way Matt's date has a sage green dress...any suggestions for shirt colors on that?)

Psycho Pet Owner

2009-02-07T16:21:00.000-08:00

Ok...I am officially a psycho pet owner. I NEVER would have done this before and actually made fun of people being such GOOFY owners...but I have now joined the ranks and took a picture of Coco at the Vet.

Honestly...please someone turn me in if I ever take her to the store with me.

Happy Birthday Ralph!!

2009-02-05T07:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to a great brother who is the life of the party.(Of course the fake teeth help). He is a wonderful friend and I am honored to be his sister.

From one extreme to the next....

2009-02-04T16:15:00.001-08:00

Ha Ha Ha...so Jordan goes from this Saturday morning....

...to this Saturday night!!

It was MORP at the High School and a group of him and his friends went as Hannah Montana and friends. You had to go as someone from Disneyland or the Disney Channel. They were all one of the characters from that hit show. (Hannah Montana). At one point at the dance the DJ put on a Hannah Montana song and their group got up in front of everyone and put on quite a show. (By the way he is the one on far left with the white skirt) What a proud moment for his parents. HA HA HA

PS "Hannah" in the picture is Jordan's friend Gavin Farr who is one of the star football players and is being recruited by 4 or 5 schools. (Hopefully, he will pick USU.) Who would have guessed he would dress like that!!

PSS (This is added the next morning...) Gavin signed with SUU. Jordan's friend Penni signed by BYU and Chris by Utah. They were all on TV last night. The friend in the picture with the blue tights is probably going to Harvard, Standford or Yale on a full ride academic scholarship and baseball scholarship. Way to go boys!!