Oh, Brian

A few days ago I posted a blog on birthdays. It was mostly in fun but there was a serious note in regards to my parents.

Yesterday was Brian's birthday so Teresa and I went out to wish him well. He is, after all, nearing the big three-oh and we don't want him to suffer alone.

When it came time for presents, we started to give his out and he said:

"Dad, you have to go first." 

I had no idea what he meant until he reminded me of my blog from the previous week. As a good son, he went out and got a present for me, giving thanks that I had not eliminated him from the earth during his teens.

Wireless Headphones

Teresa will love these because I won't have to turn the TV on so loud

To say I was surprised would be putting it mildly. Now I guess I need to get something for my own parents.

Thanks mucho Brian!!!

And Happy Birthday for the 29th Time.

BTW, Paula surprised Brian with the following:

He was pretty dang excited.  Now we have another reason to go visit.!!??!!&&##

Politics Again

The other day I was invited to write a personal review of the Republican debate that took place on Wednesday, February 22.  The idea was to get some ‘everyman’ thoughts on each candidate and their views.  Since my time was limited right then, I decided to decline the offer but here is what I might have said had I accepted.

Teresa and I watched the debate together and our common take was that Mitt Romney was the pretty clear winner.  While there were a few moments where he was attacked very strenuously, he was able to answer quite effectively and put the others on the defensive.  He seemed well prepared and I particularly liked his response to John King (the moderator for CNN) when an answer was challenged.  Without missing a beat, Mitt said “you get to ask the questions any way you want so I will answer them how I want.”  

Nice to see him stand up for himself.

Rick Santorum was the frontrunner so he got most of the abuse from the others.  It was interesting that he admitted he had made some poor judgments in his voting while serving as senator and congressman.  His dodging, by suggesting that politics is a ‘team sport’, really backfired on him – as it should.  Probably the most concerning thing with him was his voting for “Planned Parenthood” when his personal ideals are so against it.  He had a rationale for the vote but it seemed lame and really made me wonder how committed he is.  I am unabashedly a Mitt Romney backer but if it turns out that Santorum gets the nod, I will still feel like we are in pretty good shape.  But dumb votes like the one mentioned above make it harder for me to be totally happy.  (Personally, I don’t think he can do well against Obama but I hope I’m wrong).

For the first time in all the debates we have watched, Newt Gingrich was solely an afterthought and jester amongst the others.  He had a couple of good lines (calling himself Cheerful) but my impression was that he was relegated to the back of the pack by most folks.  Sitting here, two days later, I can’t remember one idea he presented that was new or interesting so I guess that might be the biggest statement of his current standing.

My wife asked me why Ron Paul is still running in this contest and it took me a moment to find the right answer.  There is no chance he is going to win this nomination so my only guess is that he is jockeying for power at the convention.  He has yet to win any primary or caucus and most of his constituents are the Libertarian crowd – the ‘nut jobs’ of the party.  I think his whole purpose is to get enough delegates to force one of the others to come to him for support and then he can get some of his own agenda on the platform.  If that ISN’T the reason, then he must have a lot of money he wants to get rid of in a campaign. 

Just a funny side note.  Our son Joel and his friend Gabe were watching the debate with us.  Both are young men, recently returned from missions, so they were trying to learn a little about the political process.  During one of the breaks, Gabe and Joel went into the kitchen and Gabe whispered to Joel, “Do you understand anything that is being said?”  To which Joel replied, “Not a thing!” 

Here’s hoping things become clearer to them and others in a very short time so more effort can be spent defeating that guy who lives in the White House.  We don’t need four more years of his silliness.  

Another One

For years, I have held that we celebrate birthdays incorrectly in our world.  What, exactly, did the "birthday person" do that is so worth celebrating?

Really, the one honored only had to live!!

It was the parents who provided all the amenities of life and helped the celebrant continue to exist.

What we should do is send a present to our parents every birthday to show them how much we appreciate them not killing us as teenagers!


You might have guessed -- I had another birthday yesterday.  It was grand and I am now that much closer to the dirt bath that is coming.

The family was really nice and even the kids at school got in on the act.  Thanks to you all.

And maybe I will get a present for my folks to thank them for the things they made possible when they decided not to terminate my existence during those horrible years.  :-)

Thanks Mom and Dad.  I love you both.

He's Back

Well, he finally made it home.  On Wednesday, February 8th, we went to the airport and picked Joel up from his two year mission to California.  He looks good and acts pretty normal (or at least as normal as a newly returned missionary acts) so we decided to keep him.

When he got home, the whole family gathered round and let him regale us with stories and experiences of his travels.  There was a lot of noise so I'm not really sure what he said.  Maybe we can go over it later, when I don't have so many distractions.

These little folks were most excited to see "Uncle Joel" because he is their favorite uncle.

I took some pictures at the airport but when we got home I discovered they were really videos (too big to put here).  For some more good shots, chug on over to Missy's blog and take a gander.  I will have more on the whole experience in a few days.

BTW, those of you waiting for more pics of Mom and Dad's anniversary, hang in there.  I haven't gotten any from the dudes who were doing the picture taking.  I WILL get some and put them up as soon as I can.  

Big 50

In December my parents celebrated their 50^th anniversary.  Sure doesn’t seem that long to me but I guess since the calendar says it is so I will have to agree.

Better picture coming soon.  

Catherine at 22

As dutiful, loving children, we all decided it would be nice to get together and see if we could encourage them to extend their union for another fifty years.  Only seems reasonable that since it has been so productive for so long that it should continue on.

Rex at 27

Seriously, we wanted to have a party but with 9 living children and many, many grandkids, friends and celebrators, it was difficult to get things done before the year ended.  Last weekend (January 28-29) was the chosen date for the little soiree.  Some of those closer to home made the arrangements and we slackers who have moved from Arizona did our part by simply attending.  It was a great festival and I think Mom and Dad were pleased with all the things that happened.

Dec. 23, 1961

Same couple -- NOW

When the pictures of the event are available I will post them.  Until then, these will just have to do.  But aren’t they sweet!!!

OOOOO, Politics

I have avoided this topic because it is so polarizing.  Sometimes it can even affect the way people treat one another.

With the primary elections going on in the Republican Party, it seems like a good time to come out of the weeds and offer a few observations.

(BTW, while I am more inclined toward the Republican’s message, I am not one who votes solely on party affiliation.)

My wife and I have watched a few of the debates on the different venues and have come to some conclusions concerning the candidates.

1.    Mitt Romney looks and acts the most presidential—he will probably receive our support in the coming election

2.  Rick Santorum seems to be a good man and wants to do the right thing – we would have no problem voting for him

3.  Ron Paul and his Libertarian ideas are not palatable to us – too crazy with all the war, drug, etc. ideas

4.    Rick Perry doesn't express himself very well – he seems to be a slightly slower and less committed Bush (and this morning he dropped out of the race)

5.  Newt Gingrich is a snake and cannot be trusted – his morals and deceit are too much to ignore

Many disagree, and that is the greatness of this country and the political process.  We are blessed to have a God given constitution that, while not perfect, is much better than anything else offered in the world (think of Egypt, Russia, Pakistan, Venezuela, Cuba, China, etc.).

Much of what happens here is “rough and tumble” politics but it NEVER degrades (or at least not yet) into violence that costs human lives.  I wish it were different but the way has evolved to this and unless we have people who choose another path, it is what will be done.

My respect for Mitt Romney has grown as he has attempted to make the discussion more about the difference between himself and Obama but even he has slipped as of late.  Unfortunately, if one candidate begins with the mudslinging, all feel they have to respond in kind. 

Wouldn't it be nice if we could just be shown the differences, in a quiet and considerate way, and be allowed to make a choice?  How refreshing it would be if most (there are some who really seem to want to help) candidates were interested in the welfare of the people instead of looking for ways to accumulate more power for themselves and their followers (or handlers as the case may be).

I am reminded of Alma the Younger as he served as the first Chief Judge for the Nephites (see Alma 4).  After only a few years, he recognized that the spiritual welfare of the people was much more important that the political challenges he faced.  His love for people and country caused him to resign his office in government and focus the rest of his life on the spiritual needs of those he served. 

Would that we had more people like that in our midst so that we might be protected and guided by love of man and not love of power.

Choosing wisely is often difficult but if we focus on the long term needs of our nation, I believe that we will make decisions that will benefit our children and grandchildren for centuries to come. 

Please be involved and please do not let the vocal minority destroy what the majority needs and wants.

Landmarks

Some days are more special than others so we call them ‘Landmark’ days.  We recently had one with our young grandson Parker.

Parker’s birthday is the day before Christmas.  You might think that his mother (birthday also in December) would have made a greater effort to protect from the curse she hated.  Ah, but that is for another story.

So on the first Saturday in January, the family gathered and witnessed a ‘landmark’ day in the life of a young man who has been a real joy to all of our family.

Parker and his proud Papa.

This little boy (oops) fine specimen of manhood is growing up to be a fine son of God.  We love him and know that he will accomplish much in his wonderful life.

Congratulations Parker – we love you!!!!

Christmas Deceit

Christmas is over and life is trending back to normal.  Here are a few thoughts and experiences that made this Christmas memorable.

On Christmas day we were able to talk to Joel again.  He is doing well and only has a few weeks left in his mission.  He’s trying to not get excited about coming home but these things are always hard.  We are anxious to have him back…….mostly.  Sometimes I wonder if it wouldn’t be cheaper to let him continue for another couple of years.  But we are glad he is happy and teaching and serving faithfully.

Our family party was excellent, with great food, pleasant company and the roar of 13 little grandkids echoing off the walls of our “casa vieja.”  Who knew the power and joy these tiny (well, some aren”t really tiny anymore) souls can bring to our family.  Thanks to our kids for doing their part to perpetuate the family tree. J

I tried to be tricky this Christmas and it backfired on me. 

Teresa and I decided we would not get presents because we are going to Arizona for my parents 50^th anniversary celebration.  Our present was the tickets and stuff for the trip.

Mom and Dad when they came to Utah earlier this year.

But I decided I would be sneaky and get her a little something – usually she is the one doing that but I was pretty sure she would play it straight.  So I got a few books and some clothes and little things and put them under the tree.  She was delighted and I felt great cause I had done what she has done so many years before.

The afternoon of Christmas we had all the kids over for dinner and to talk to Joel so it was a crazy time.  When things were done on the phone, the kids put a box in my lap and said it was a present for me.  I thought it was something from them and thought maybe they had gotten together to do something nice.

The box was wrapped in a whole roll of duct tape and they wanted me to take it off, piece by piece, but I decided to cut it with a knife.  When I opened the box I saw one of the pillows off my bed in the top of the box.  Very strange!! 

Underneath was an old briefcase that had seen better days.  I didn’t want to be rude so I tried to act excited and took it out to examine it.  Beneath it was a NEW pillow that I was glad to see, but the briefcase had me perplexed. 

(Why would my kids get me an old briefcase for a Christmas present?  I don’t even use a briefcase anymore.  This is really strange.)

Josh (or someone) said “Open it.” 

So I did and on top was a piece of purple poster board. 

When I pulled that off, this is what I saw.

All fives.

Now I was really perplexed.  What was this about?

One of the kids made a joke and said they had gotten the case from a drug dealer.  Maybe so!!

As I sat there, stunned into silence (yes, I had no idea what to say) I wondered why they would give me a briefcase full of money – they didn’t, it was from Teresa.

My first question was, “What is this for?”

As one, they said, “Look at the purple poster board you threw away.”

Taped to the top or board was a small little “Hot Wheels” truck (it didn’t look much like a truck ----------- Teresa said it was the only one they could find).

The Little Truck

Then I realized that my little sweetheart had beaten me again. 

Here, I thought I was going to win the “who cheated best on the Christmas gift” award!!!  Not this year (or probably any year in the coming century).

Thanks Teresa, for a wonderful surprise and for showing me I’m just not deceitful enough.

BTW, this is what that case full of money looks like now!!

Christmas Viewing

It's not often that I endorse a movie because generally there aren't many that really strike me as worthy of sharing.

 

But it's Christmas time and there is a film we discovered a few years ago that continues to be a favorite for both Teresa and I. It's not a 'real' Christmas movie but some scenes celebrate the season and the intentions are to share feelings that come with thinking and acting like Christ.

 

We actually came upon it completely by accident when Teresa's sister accidentally left the DVD at a family Christmas party (we didn't realize where it came from for a while but have since confessed our sins to that sister).

 

Frankly (or Susanly), I was not impressed with the quality of the production when we first started viewing but became enthralled with the message and story so much that I soon forgot my quibblings.

 

 

The movie we all enjoy so much is called "the Ultimate Gift."

 

It's smarmy, predictable, cute, and somewhat disjointed…

 

BUT

 

There is a marvelous story about change and redemption and becoming something you aren't yet.

 

If you haven't seen it, rent, buy or borrow (but remember to return)
the DVD and then sit back and enjoy 117 minutes of feeling good about the world and the possibilities that are out there.

 

Merry Christmas to All.

 

A few other movies we like this time of year:

The Man in the Santa Claus Suit (TV movie with Fred Astaire)

White Christmas

A Christmas Carol (George C. Scott version)

The Bishop's Wife (Cary Grant)

It's a Wonderful Life (again, not a true Christmas movie but …)

Miracle on 34^th St. (Natalie Wood)

 
And here are a few we would never recommend because they just aren't Christmasy enough!!!

A Christmas Story (just wrong)

    Home Alone (all iterations)

    How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Jim Carrey ruins everything)

    The Santa Clause (and its follow-ups)

What is a Smile

So how come some of us can’t smile when required.

A happy day but the smile just isn't there.

I consider myself pretty happy but whenever our family gets together for pictures I take lots of grief because I am completely incapable of showing a smile on demand.

The usual forced smile look -- OK, not usual but still forced

My wife will poke me and my kids will chide me but no matter how hard I try, my smile in a picture looks pained, forced and totally unhappy. 

I really did enjoy Jamaica and especially with my sweetheart.

It’s gotten so bad that I don’t even try anymore.  So Teresa pinches me or makes fun of me, hoping there might be a small miracle – but nothing good ever happens.

I think my “smile on demand” gene is broken and I am doomed to failure. 

Sure hope the mortician doesn’t have trouble after I’m gone.  That could really be embarrassing.

Anyway, keep smiling (however you do that) and live happy, no matter what your face looks like. 

Pre-loss-of-smile days.

BTW, this is a picture of me when I was 19 so it is possible but I seem to have forgotten how.