The summer after Merrill and Mary were married and before Alan and Suzanne got married, Wayne invited me to go to their ranch that was located in Avon, Utah. Wayne's dad was a Wyoming cowboy and so he really loved his ranch in Northern Utah.
My dad was concerned about me flying around with Wayne in a small airplane. He hadn't ever met Wayne and probably envisioned me flying around with an inexperienced entertainer in some old airplane. After Wayne invited me to go to the ranch, he suggested flying up to the Bountiful airport to pick me up and fly us back to Provo. We were then going to ride up to Avon with Merrill and Mary.
My dad offered to take me down to the airport to meet Wayne. He must have liked Wayne's shiny, new, orange, Cessna Skyline because I was surprised that he never suggested that I not fly with Wayne again.
We flew back to Provo to meet Merrill and Mary and Merrill drove us up to the ranch. At one point of the trip I remember us stopping for gas and Wayne getting his drivers license out. I asked to look at it and he handed it over just to grab it right back before I could look at it. That really sparked my curiosity so of course I insisted on seeing it. I knew he was hiding something, but what?
Wayne didn't want me to know that his real first name was Melvin. I actually had a friend named Mel, so I like the name, but he doesn't. I think he finally accepted the fact that his name is Melvin and I call him Mel or Melvin quite often now. What was really interesting is that after obtaining a copy of his birth certificate just recently, it didn't have Melvin mentioned at all, just Wayne Osmond. Melvin must have been an after thought or something.
Monday, May 31, 2010
"The Wii Fitters"
How is everyone's exercise program going? I don't think that I've met my goal this week but have tried to do some exercise because I read something once that impressed me. Every day that you stay in bed all day it takes 7 days after to catch up to the same strength level. Maybe some of you nurses out there knows if that is true. It makes sense because even after surgery in the hospital they get you out of bed and walking as soon as possible now. Many years ago I heard that women would stay in the hospital for two weeks after having a baby. Is that right?
Sunday, May 30, 2010
"An Apple a Day Bunch"
How is everyone doing on their healthy lifestyle diets? I have no idea if I have gained weight or lost weight this week. The travel scales yo yo up and down every time that I get on them. I usually take the average of many recordings but the amounts have been so extreme that I've decided I might as well get rid of the scales. They're useless. I've felt nauseated almost all week so I've been eating a lot of carbohydrates and haven't written down one thing that I ate.
I'll start again keeping track of my calories this week and will be able to weigh on my scales at home next Monday. Hope everyone has kept track a lot better than I have this week. Let us all know how you did this week.
I'll start again keeping track of my calories this week and will be able to weigh on my scales at home next Monday. Hope everyone has kept track a lot better than I have this week. Let us all know how you did this week.
"Wonky's Book Worms"
Wayne and I finished our reading for the week. Wow, did Saul have pride or what? The main thing that Wayne was impressed with was how the Lord protected the righteous and how the wicked were destroyed. That should give us a big hint of how we should live our own lives.
David had amazing faith. He knew that the Lord protected his people and was willing to stand up to Goliath because he had no doubt that the Lord would preserve his people. What lessons did you learn from your reading this week. How can we apply these teachings in our own lives? We love to read your responses.
This week we will be reading 1st Samuel chapter 20 to the end of the book and 2nd Samuel chapters 1 and 2.
David had amazing faith. He knew that the Lord protected his people and was willing to stand up to Goliath because he had no doubt that the Lord would preserve his people. What lessons did you learn from your reading this week. How can we apply these teachings in our own lives? We love to read your responses.
This week we will be reading 1st Samuel chapter 20 to the end of the book and 2nd Samuel chapters 1 and 2.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
First Time Meeting the Osmonds
The first time I saw all the Osmonds together was at Merrill and Mary's wedding reception. Mary and I were in a service/social club together at BYU and she had invited me to their reception. Almost everyone in the family was standing in a line, greeting those that attended. I took a date with me to their reception and spent some time dancing with my date after going through the line. I remember looking over and glancing at Wayne standing there the whole time in the line, greeting all the people that attended.
Alan and Jay were on the dance floor dancing with all the girls. I had met Alan and Jay earlier at a Church activity. I thought they were really friendly and nice but they would make the rounds from one apartment to another at Riviera so I didn't take their visits to my apartment too seriously. My cousin roomed with one of Alan's girlfriends and she kept me updated as to what he was up to at her apartment.
I remember greeting the Osmonds that were standing in line at the reception and was especially interested in Wayne because Alan and Jay had previously told me how weird he was when I had asked if they didn't have another brother that I hadn't met. They told me that he liked to make bullets and sit in his little orange tool room and play with his tools. Wayne doesn't remember me going through the wedding line, but I wouldn't expect him to with the hours of people that went through the line or want him to since I came with a date.
I'm sure I met Donny that evening but he was so much younger than I was that I honestly don't remember it specifically. Donny has a very special charisma that attracts people. I remember recognizing this quality immediately, along with his friendly, down to earth personality. He was so unassuming, humble and easy to talk to. I remember a couple of his brothers teasing him right after we were married because he liked to spend the little free time that he had engaged in all his interests instead of spending all his free time dating. Donny is really intelligent and was always rigging up some new electronic device or learning how to run the recording board, etc.
One evening Wayne and I were watching television at their home in Riviera Apartments. Marie came into the room with a silver platter that had crystal glasses, Mormon champagne (non alcoholic), nuts and mints. I thought that was so thoughtful! That was the first time I really got acquainted with my future sister-in-law. She was so happy, sweet, unaffected, and beautiful with a cute sense of humor, freshness and innocence. I loved her from the beginning.
Jimmy was the only Osmond that I remember watching on television before Wayne and I were married. He was this precocious, cute 12 year old that sounded like an adult talking to Johnny Carson. He was already using his business talents making buttons for the Osmond Fan Club to sell. Jimmy always had a business venture going but still had to finish his high school education with correspondence courses. Mary was Jimmy's tutor most of the time but I remember helping him a couple of times on the airplane as we were traveling around the world. Jimmy was always especially nice to me I thought. He'd go out of his way to make me feel like part of the family. I always felt that he was the little brother that I had never had.
The first time that I actually got acquainted with Father Osmond was at his ranch the summer before Wayne and I were married. I immediately liked him and felt the feeling was reciprocated. This is another story all by itself so I'll have to write about this experience another time.
I only remember meeting Mother Osmond a few times before Wayne and I got married. She had so many projects going all the time, traveling with Jimmy, trying to keep up with all her other children and grandchildren that it wasn't until after we were married that I really had a chance to get acquainted. She was my birthday Mother since we shared the same date and I soon learned that we shared a lot of the same interests. Wayne had spent a lot of time with his mother helping her with the dishes and other chores because he felt that she genuinely needed some assistance. I'm sure that he also enjoyed spending that special time with her. Wayne is a lot like his mother so how could I not totally love his mother!
I hadn't ever been around hearing impaired people so I was a little nervous around Virl and Tom in the beginning. Virl was really kind and a little more reserved than Tom. Tom was very outgoing and would try to make me feel more comfortable by joking about his hearing loss. I wasn't quite sure how to respond in the beginning. Virl and Tom were just the most amazing guys having been born in a family with so much talent and not being able to perform like the rest of the family because of their hearing disability. I probably admired them the very most.
The members of the Osmond Family were all so warm, friendly and likable that I felt like I already knew them the first time that I met them. I'm sure many of you, if not all of you, have felt the same way. Each individual of the family is so different from the others yet as a unit they are so strong. I wasn't aware of the extent of their popularity in show business. Because they all performed together as a family at that time, I'm sure I didn't realize until later that Donny was such a superstar and teen idol.
Alan and Jay were on the dance floor dancing with all the girls. I had met Alan and Jay earlier at a Church activity. I thought they were really friendly and nice but they would make the rounds from one apartment to another at Riviera so I didn't take their visits to my apartment too seriously. My cousin roomed with one of Alan's girlfriends and she kept me updated as to what he was up to at her apartment.
I remember greeting the Osmonds that were standing in line at the reception and was especially interested in Wayne because Alan and Jay had previously told me how weird he was when I had asked if they didn't have another brother that I hadn't met. They told me that he liked to make bullets and sit in his little orange tool room and play with his tools. Wayne doesn't remember me going through the wedding line, but I wouldn't expect him to with the hours of people that went through the line or want him to since I came with a date.
I'm sure I met Donny that evening but he was so much younger than I was that I honestly don't remember it specifically. Donny has a very special charisma that attracts people. I remember recognizing this quality immediately, along with his friendly, down to earth personality. He was so unassuming, humble and easy to talk to. I remember a couple of his brothers teasing him right after we were married because he liked to spend the little free time that he had engaged in all his interests instead of spending all his free time dating. Donny is really intelligent and was always rigging up some new electronic device or learning how to run the recording board, etc.
One evening Wayne and I were watching television at their home in Riviera Apartments. Marie came into the room with a silver platter that had crystal glasses, Mormon champagne (non alcoholic), nuts and mints. I thought that was so thoughtful! That was the first time I really got acquainted with my future sister-in-law. She was so happy, sweet, unaffected, and beautiful with a cute sense of humor, freshness and innocence. I loved her from the beginning.
Jimmy was the only Osmond that I remember watching on television before Wayne and I were married. He was this precocious, cute 12 year old that sounded like an adult talking to Johnny Carson. He was already using his business talents making buttons for the Osmond Fan Club to sell. Jimmy always had a business venture going but still had to finish his high school education with correspondence courses. Mary was Jimmy's tutor most of the time but I remember helping him a couple of times on the airplane as we were traveling around the world. Jimmy was always especially nice to me I thought. He'd go out of his way to make me feel like part of the family. I always felt that he was the little brother that I had never had.
The first time that I actually got acquainted with Father Osmond was at his ranch the summer before Wayne and I were married. I immediately liked him and felt the feeling was reciprocated. This is another story all by itself so I'll have to write about this experience another time.
I only remember meeting Mother Osmond a few times before Wayne and I got married. She had so many projects going all the time, traveling with Jimmy, trying to keep up with all her other children and grandchildren that it wasn't until after we were married that I really had a chance to get acquainted. She was my birthday Mother since we shared the same date and I soon learned that we shared a lot of the same interests. Wayne had spent a lot of time with his mother helping her with the dishes and other chores because he felt that she genuinely needed some assistance. I'm sure that he also enjoyed spending that special time with her. Wayne is a lot like his mother so how could I not totally love his mother!
I hadn't ever been around hearing impaired people so I was a little nervous around Virl and Tom in the beginning. Virl was really kind and a little more reserved than Tom. Tom was very outgoing and would try to make me feel more comfortable by joking about his hearing loss. I wasn't quite sure how to respond in the beginning. Virl and Tom were just the most amazing guys having been born in a family with so much talent and not being able to perform like the rest of the family because of their hearing disability. I probably admired them the very most.
The members of the Osmond Family were all so warm, friendly and likable that I felt like I already knew them the first time that I met them. I'm sure many of you, if not all of you, have felt the same way. Each individual of the family is so different from the others yet as a unit they are so strong. I wasn't aware of the extent of their popularity in show business. Because they all performed together as a family at that time, I'm sure I didn't realize until later that Donny was such a superstar and teen idol.
Friday, May 28, 2010
What Wayne learned on our first date?
The first time I went with Wayne he just bopped up to apartment 13 at Riviera Apartments. He wanted to know if I would go with him for a ride in his new airplane. I hadn't eaten all day and remember blurting out that I was hungry and needed to eat first. He offered to take me out to get something to eat before we went to the Provo airport.
Talk about me being blunt. I wasn't hinting around, it just came out. From the very beginning I felt really comfortable and could say whatever I wanted to Wayne. I didn't feel like I had to be careful or watch what I said like I normally did with other people. It wasn't long until Wayne discovered that one way to my heart was through food. We went to Big Boy's Restaurant.
Being a student I only remember cooking a few times and that was usually using a box of Hamburger Helper. My favorite staples at the time were milk, bread, orange juice, baloney, bananas and cottage cheese. After that first time together, Wayne knew how much I loved to eat.
Before we went out he would borrow his mother's credit card and we'd make eating a part of every date. I didn't know that he was using his mother's credit card until one day when he forgot to get it before he came over to pick me up for a date. I also didn't know that he hadn't ever written a check until after we were married, so I taught him. Wayne was really good at using a credit card though, so he taught me how to use one.
We went to "The Four Winds" in downtown Provo several times. It was probably the nicest restaurant in Provo in the early 70's. I remember going to Denny's and getting take out at Kentucky Fried Chicken. It didn't matter what we did together we always had a lot of fun.
Talk about me being blunt. I wasn't hinting around, it just came out. From the very beginning I felt really comfortable and could say whatever I wanted to Wayne. I didn't feel like I had to be careful or watch what I said like I normally did with other people. It wasn't long until Wayne discovered that one way to my heart was through food. We went to Big Boy's Restaurant.
Being a student I only remember cooking a few times and that was usually using a box of Hamburger Helper. My favorite staples at the time were milk, bread, orange juice, baloney, bananas and cottage cheese. After that first time together, Wayne knew how much I loved to eat.
Before we went out he would borrow his mother's credit card and we'd make eating a part of every date. I didn't know that he was using his mother's credit card until one day when he forgot to get it before he came over to pick me up for a date. I also didn't know that he hadn't ever written a check until after we were married, so I taught him. Wayne was really good at using a credit card though, so he taught me how to use one.
We went to "The Four Winds" in downtown Provo several times. It was probably the nicest restaurant in Provo in the early 70's. I remember going to Denny's and getting take out at Kentucky Fried Chicken. It didn't matter what we did together we always had a lot of fun.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Response to Leslie's comments
Leslie, thank you for your comments. I respect and appreciate them. I fully agree with your cited texts, and most of your interpretation. As to the points that you seem to take issue with concerning my beliefs, it appears to me that there are two main reasons for that.
First, it would seem that you have some misconceptions concerning my beliefs; Second, I believe in modern revelation, modern prophets, that God speaks today through living prophets just as he did anciently (i.e. Moses, Abraham, Peter). As such, some of my beliefs go beyond that which is clearly taught in the Bible.
If you would like to further pursue the questions and issues that you have highlighted, I recommend you go to mormon.org where you can read about issues like these, as well as ask questions to a live, online, missionary. They will be a better resource for you, and I would prefer not to delve into these issues here on this blog. Thank you so much.
First, it would seem that you have some misconceptions concerning my beliefs; Second, I believe in modern revelation, modern prophets, that God speaks today through living prophets just as he did anciently (i.e. Moses, Abraham, Peter). As such, some of my beliefs go beyond that which is clearly taught in the Bible.
If you would like to further pursue the questions and issues that you have highlighted, I recommend you go to mormon.org where you can read about issues like these, as well as ask questions to a live, online, missionary. They will be a better resource for you, and I would prefer not to delve into these issues here on this blog. Thank you so much.
Thank you for all the get well wishes!
Reading about all your favorite old shows brought back some good memories. I don't ever remember watching the Osmonds on the Andy Williams Show. Maybe I did, but I don't remember ever watching them. My aunt that was three years older than I was remembered watching them on The Andy Williams Show and Wayne was her favorite. She thought he was the cutest - that is what she told me.
Thank you for all your get well wishes. I'm feeling a lot better today. Hope you are all doing O.K.
I missed seeing Annette at the show last night but enjoyed reading thoughts from "The Friendship Book" of Francis Gay that she gave to Wayne to deliver to me. He had unwrapped it before bringing it to the room and apologized. He thought the gift was for him but then probably noticed the really pretty silver book marker that had "Kathy" spelled in silver beads along with the purple and white pearls and a flowered ornament at the bottom. It's really cute and matches the book. Thank you for being so thoughtful Annette!
In the book there is a thought, quote, verse, poem, or story for every day of the year. I couldn't stop with reading just one because they are all so good. There are also some inspiring photos. I thought I'd share one of the stories that I read last night because I thought it was really inspiring and that you all might enjoy it as much as I did.
"Ed Roberts was the inventor of the world's first commercially viable personal computer. To help him with the business side of things, he hired a young software writer called Bill Gates. Eventually Roberts sold his company and trained to be a doctor, while Bill Gates went on to become one of the richest men in the world.
From his practice in a small town Ed Roberts had this to say,'The implication is that inventing the PC was the most important thing I ever did, and I don't think that's true. Every day I deal with things that are equally, if not more important, here with my patients.'
Proof, if ever it were needed, that it's not what you get in this life that matters, but what you give!"
Thank you for all your get well wishes. I'm feeling a lot better today. Hope you are all doing O.K.
I missed seeing Annette at the show last night but enjoyed reading thoughts from "The Friendship Book" of Francis Gay that she gave to Wayne to deliver to me. He had unwrapped it before bringing it to the room and apologized. He thought the gift was for him but then probably noticed the really pretty silver book marker that had "Kathy" spelled in silver beads along with the purple and white pearls and a flowered ornament at the bottom. It's really cute and matches the book. Thank you for being so thoughtful Annette!
In the book there is a thought, quote, verse, poem, or story for every day of the year. I couldn't stop with reading just one because they are all so good. There are also some inspiring photos. I thought I'd share one of the stories that I read last night because I thought it was really inspiring and that you all might enjoy it as much as I did.
"Ed Roberts was the inventor of the world's first commercially viable personal computer. To help him with the business side of things, he hired a young software writer called Bill Gates. Eventually Roberts sold his company and trained to be a doctor, while Bill Gates went on to become one of the richest men in the world.
From his practice in a small town Ed Roberts had this to say,'The implication is that inventing the PC was the most important thing I ever did, and I don't think that's true. Every day I deal with things that are equally, if not more important, here with my patients.'
Proof, if ever it were needed, that it's not what you get in this life that matters, but what you give!"
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Food Poisoning?
Monday, right before we left to drive to Las Vegas, Wayne and I decided to get something to eat at a restaurant. The whole band came in about the same time to eat. About an hour after eating I wasn't feeling too well. On the drive to Vegas I felt nauseated but that's about all that happened luckily.
Since arriving in Branson I've been taking it easy, but still not feeling too well. I know something is wrong when I don't even feel like playing on the computer and all I want to do is watch TV and sleep. Not sure if it is food poisoning, the flu or I'm just getting too old to skip a night's sleep. Maybe it's a combination of them all. Who knows?
All I can say is that when I don't feel well, I really appreciate the times that I do. I know there needs to be opposition in all things so when it comes to health issues I really appreciate having good health. I have been planning on going to the shows to see some friends but I doubt I'll be there again tonight. I'm sure that they would appreciate not getting my illness anyway. I know I would.
Jeff, Amy and family sent me some DVD's of "The Lucy Show." That show and "I Love Lucy" have always been my favorite comedy shows on television. I had totally forgotten about the shows until they sent me the DVD's. I used to watch all the reruns but haven't noticed that they've been on TV lately. My favorite cartoon growing up was "Little Lulu." For some reason I never saw an Osmond cartoon until after Wayne and I were married many years. I didn't even know that they had one.
What were your favorite TV shows and cartoons growing up? Television just isn't the same anymore. Don't you think?
Jeff and Maia have really been into "American Idol" this year. I'll have to admit that this year I've only caught a couple of the shows real early in the season. I don't know who is left in the competition but don't they announce the winner tonight? What are your thoughts on the show. Is it going to continue with the same success when Simon is gone?
Since arriving in Branson I've been taking it easy, but still not feeling too well. I know something is wrong when I don't even feel like playing on the computer and all I want to do is watch TV and sleep. Not sure if it is food poisoning, the flu or I'm just getting too old to skip a night's sleep. Maybe it's a combination of them all. Who knows?
All I can say is that when I don't feel well, I really appreciate the times that I do. I know there needs to be opposition in all things so when it comes to health issues I really appreciate having good health. I have been planning on going to the shows to see some friends but I doubt I'll be there again tonight. I'm sure that they would appreciate not getting my illness anyway. I know I would.
Jeff, Amy and family sent me some DVD's of "The Lucy Show." That show and "I Love Lucy" have always been my favorite comedy shows on television. I had totally forgotten about the shows until they sent me the DVD's. I used to watch all the reruns but haven't noticed that they've been on TV lately. My favorite cartoon growing up was "Little Lulu." For some reason I never saw an Osmond cartoon until after Wayne and I were married many years. I didn't even know that they had one.
What were your favorite TV shows and cartoons growing up? Television just isn't the same anymore. Don't you think?
Jeff and Maia have really been into "American Idol" this year. I'll have to admit that this year I've only caught a couple of the shows real early in the season. I don't know who is left in the competition but don't they announce the winner tonight? What are your thoughts on the show. Is it going to continue with the same success when Simon is gone?
Monday, May 24, 2010
We're in Branson
Everything went smoothly on our trip to Branson. The only hitch we had was getting our key to the hotel to work. I ran over to find Donna at the Music City Center and she gave me two new key cards which work beautifully.
We were snoozing by 1:30 pm and got up about an hour ago so Wayne could get ready for the show tonight at 8:00 pm. I hope the show goes O.K. tonight. Maybe Merrill has enough energy for all three of them.
Jay was supposed to arrive in Springfield at about 1:00 pm and I don't have any idea when Merrill got back from his convention. I think he spoke for a health company that specializes in medical billing. I could have gotten that all wrong but that's the idea I got.
For Mother's Day Greg, Kaylynn and family sent me a book with some very fluffy, comfortable slippers in my favorite color, blue, to relax in while I'm reading. The book is a true story of crime and art. Kaylynn and I were avid Nancy Drew readers growing up and enjoy mystery books. I especially love books and movies that are true stories. It's always fun to have a book ready to read whenever we are traveling. It helps make the trip so much more enjoyable.
We were snoozing by 1:30 pm and got up about an hour ago so Wayne could get ready for the show tonight at 8:00 pm. I hope the show goes O.K. tonight. Maybe Merrill has enough energy for all three of them.
Jay was supposed to arrive in Springfield at about 1:00 pm and I don't have any idea when Merrill got back from his convention. I think he spoke for a health company that specializes in medical billing. I could have gotten that all wrong but that's the idea I got.
For Mother's Day Greg, Kaylynn and family sent me a book with some very fluffy, comfortable slippers in my favorite color, blue, to relax in while I'm reading. The book is a true story of crime and art. Kaylynn and I were avid Nancy Drew readers growing up and enjoy mystery books. I especially love books and movies that are true stories. It's always fun to have a book ready to read whenever we are traveling. It helps make the trip so much more enjoyable.
On our flight to and from Vegas I have been reading the book they gave me that is written by Matthew Hart called "The Irish Game." It's about the biggest art heist that took place in 1986 at Ireland's Russborough House. By the time they finally recovered a Vermeer painting it was worth two hundred million dollars which led to a remarkable discovery about the way Vermeer achieved his photographic perspective. If you love art and mystery, this is the perfect book for you! I've got to go finish the last chapter before Wayne gets back and turns on the TV.
Good Morning Everyone
We left Laughlin, Nevada around 1:30 am this morning. Steve Mason, our drummer, did a terrific job of driving us safely to Las Vegas in a rental van with Gene, Bryan, Scott, Jay, Wayne and I. Wayne and I are sitting here at the gate at McCarran International Airport and it's almost 4:30 am Vegas time. The airplane doesn't leave until 6:30 am so I have some extra time to blog and walk. After taking the rental van back to Dollar, we took a shuttle to the airport and checked in at Allegiant Air. That is everyone except Jay.
Jay is traveling to Springfield on United Airlines for some reason and has a stop in Denver on the way. Our flight is straight without any stops which will be nice. We arrive before noon and have arranged a shuttle to drive us to Branson. By 1:30 pm Wayne and I will probably be in our hotel room taking a long nap before the performance at the Music City Center which begins at 8:00 pm tonight.
Thank you for all your tips on everything from child discipline, sinus remedies and weight loss. After reading everyone's comments I've decided that I need to cut out sugar and fat to have a healthier me and make it permanent. Thank you for all your suggestions. I enjoy reading your comments. I hope everyone has a wonderful day!
Jay is traveling to Springfield on United Airlines for some reason and has a stop in Denver on the way. Our flight is straight without any stops which will be nice. We arrive before noon and have arranged a shuttle to drive us to Branson. By 1:30 pm Wayne and I will probably be in our hotel room taking a long nap before the performance at the Music City Center which begins at 8:00 pm tonight.
Thank you for all your tips on everything from child discipline, sinus remedies and weight loss. After reading everyone's comments I've decided that I need to cut out sugar and fat to have a healthier me and make it permanent. Thank you for all your suggestions. I enjoy reading your comments. I hope everyone has a wonderful day!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The "Wii Fitters" Report Here!
I've really enjoyed walking this week. It's been beautiful walking down by the Colorado River. It takes about 15 minutes to walk down to the end of the walkway from the Riverside Hotel and then 15 minutes back. I've done that every day that we've been here.One day I walked twice for 30 minutes. Wayne wanted to go for a walk after he ate all his pancakes with butter and maple syrup after a show.
There is a bridge at one point on the walk and if you look down you can see all these big colorful fish on both sides of the bridge. I've seen a couple of raccoons, birds, ducks and a lot of bugs, especially gnats. If I walk when it's still hot I don't have a problem with all the bugs and after dark they leave us alone because they are swarming around the lights. At dusk around 7:00 pm the gnats are swarming all over me.
"An Apple a Day Bunch" Report for the week of May 17th thru May 23rd
This has been an interesting week with having free tickets to the buffets here at the Riverside Hotel. I don't have any scales here with me so I'm not going to be able to weigh in until we arrive back in Branson Monday. I've tried to fill my plate up with lettuce using cottage cheese as dressing, vegetables, fruits, fish and a few mashed potatoes. For dessert I've had fruit and jello mostly, but did try a taste of a few of Wayne's fattening desserts and foods.
The worse thing I did was eat a Butterfinger, Milky Way and Momentos. Wayne bought a bunch of candy bars after the shows and we kept throwing them back and forth until I finally gave in. After that, I know I didn't lose a pound but hopefully I didn't gain. I only have a little over 2 weeks until I have to take another cholesterol test so I'm going to be stronger. Watch out Wayne!
I did learn a few dieting tips from a friend from Arizona after a show here at the Riverside. She showed me a photo that she carries of herself everywhere that reminds her of what she looked like before she decided to lose weight. The photo doesn't look like her at all now. She is so thin that I don't think I would have been able to recognize her in her former photo. The photo motivates her not to go back to that weight again.
For me the hardest part is to keep the weight off after I've lost it, as I'm sure it is for all of us.
Her tips:
1. Keep a "before my diet" photo with me to remind me that I don't want to go back to that heavier weight.
2. Eat lots of salads and totally give up the really fattening foods.
3. When your friend or husband has a really fattening dessert and you can't resist, just take one bite to taste it.
Any tips that I missed? Thank you so much for sharing your success with me! Every little idea helps to motivate me more. After these great tips I started over again today and am determined to not give up the fight!!!
The worse thing I did was eat a Butterfinger, Milky Way and Momentos. Wayne bought a bunch of candy bars after the shows and we kept throwing them back and forth until I finally gave in. After that, I know I didn't lose a pound but hopefully I didn't gain. I only have a little over 2 weeks until I have to take another cholesterol test so I'm going to be stronger. Watch out Wayne!
I did learn a few dieting tips from a friend from Arizona after a show here at the Riverside. She showed me a photo that she carries of herself everywhere that reminds her of what she looked like before she decided to lose weight. The photo doesn't look like her at all now. She is so thin that I don't think I would have been able to recognize her in her former photo. The photo motivates her not to go back to that weight again.
For me the hardest part is to keep the weight off after I've lost it, as I'm sure it is for all of us.
Her tips:
1. Keep a "before my diet" photo with me to remind me that I don't want to go back to that heavier weight.
2. Eat lots of salads and totally give up the really fattening foods.
3. When your friend or husband has a really fattening dessert and you can't resist, just take one bite to taste it.
Any tips that I missed? Thank you so much for sharing your success with me! Every little idea helps to motivate me more. After these great tips I started over again today and am determined to not give up the fight!!!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
"Wonky's Book Worms"
We loved the reading this week. Wayne commented that you better do whatever the Lord wants you to do or there are serious consequences.
The story of Ruth and Naomi was touching. Not only because of Ruth's love for Naomi but because Ruth put the Lord and His gospel before her own family. She probably missed her family and wanted to go home but knew that they weren't living the Lord's gospel and were worshiping idols. She put her love for God before anything else which can be very difficult. I am in awe of many people that leave or are disowned by their families in order to follow the Lord and His gospel. I have ancestors that have been disowned by their own families in order to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I loved the faith of Hannah and how she gave the Lord her son, Samuel. In return Samuel not only became the prophet but she had other children to bless her life. It would be so hard to see my son only once in awhile, bring him a larger size of coat as he grew and then leave him behind to return to the rest of my family.
The story of Eli's sons is a wake up call for all of us that are parents and grandparents. It seems that we are responsible for our children no matter how old they are. From the reading I gathered that Eli wasn't able or more likely didn't want to discipline his sons in the way that the Lord wanted him to. Do we as parents shrink from our responsibilities because we don't want conflict or fear that our children won't like or love us if we try to help them realize the mistakes that they making or have made? I'll admit that it is easier just to let some things slide than confront my children and grandchildren on many things that are small at the time, but could develop into larger problems unless they realize their errors.
What lessons did you learn from your reading that you can apply in your live? We love to hear your comments and ideas. This week, May 23 - 29, we will be reading 1 Samuel 6 - 19.
The story of Ruth and Naomi was touching. Not only because of Ruth's love for Naomi but because Ruth put the Lord and His gospel before her own family. She probably missed her family and wanted to go home but knew that they weren't living the Lord's gospel and were worshiping idols. She put her love for God before anything else which can be very difficult. I am in awe of many people that leave or are disowned by their families in order to follow the Lord and His gospel. I have ancestors that have been disowned by their own families in order to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I loved the faith of Hannah and how she gave the Lord her son, Samuel. In return Samuel not only became the prophet but she had other children to bless her life. It would be so hard to see my son only once in awhile, bring him a larger size of coat as he grew and then leave him behind to return to the rest of my family.
The story of Eli's sons is a wake up call for all of us that are parents and grandparents. It seems that we are responsible for our children no matter how old they are. From the reading I gathered that Eli wasn't able or more likely didn't want to discipline his sons in the way that the Lord wanted him to. Do we as parents shrink from our responsibilities because we don't want conflict or fear that our children won't like or love us if we try to help them realize the mistakes that they making or have made? I'll admit that it is easier just to let some things slide than confront my children and grandchildren on many things that are small at the time, but could develop into larger problems unless they realize their errors.
What lessons did you learn from your reading that you can apply in your live? We love to hear your comments and ideas. This week, May 23 - 29, we will be reading 1 Samuel 6 - 19.
Do you have sinus, congestion or allergy problems?
Wayne has had problems with his sinuses his whole life. He had an allergy skin test when he was a teenager and it showed that he was allergic to everything. They then decided that it was his dermographic skin that was reacting to all the skin scratches, so that test didn't help him at all.
Lately he has been having problems hearing on stage because one ear in particular has been plugged, which has been really frustrating when he's trying to sing on pitch. He's tried many different medications but we've found one thing that helps, so I thought I'd share it with you in case there are any of you that have problems with nasal congestion, allergies and/or sinus infections, etc. I mentioned it to one of my sons who has horrible allergies and he told me yesterday that it works awesome for him too.
Many of you have probably heard about a neti pot. I've used the neti pot before and I thought it really helped me. This nasal rinse is a lot easier to use and I read a report that stated it works better than the neti pot. It's not too expensive so it's worth a try, especially if you have a chronic condition. The antibiotics weren't helping Wayne at all.
The nasal rinse is a spray bottle that you fill with distilled water or water that you have boiled. You add a packet of their saline solution and shake. You can use it at room temperature or warmed up a little to make it more comfortable. You squirt it up your nostrils one at a time and sniff in softly at the same time so it will go up into your sinus cavities. You are supposed to keep your mouth open so the solution will drain out your mouth or the other nostril so you don't have to swallow it.
Wayne started using the nasal rinse twice a day in the beginning and now he uses it once before the show. In the beginning it would keep his ear open most of the show and now his ears are clear for the whole entire show. It has not only helped him physically but he's so much more optimistic knowing that he'll be able to hear.
Please let me know if or when you try this nasal rinse. I'm just curious if it works well for others.
Please let me know if or when you try this nasal rinse. I'm just curious if it works well for others.
The Osmond's?
The Osmond's what?
Thought you might like to see the Riverside Hotel and Casino sign out in front. Do you like the apostrophe?
Don't you love this photo with all the Arizona and California girls?
This photo was taken from my seat in the audience. Not very good. Huh. It's the best I could do with my IPhone.
Jason, Jay's son, was selling the merchandise tonight. It's really, really good to see him! It's been two years since he just recently returned home from his mission. I know you can see why all the ladies were gathered around the merchandise table. He's such a happy, handsome young man!!!
Don't you love his Osmond smile?
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Hi Grandma!
When I was walking down by the river today a teenager yelled, "Hi, Grandma!" I think that was the first time anyone has called me grandma outside of my family. I thought about it for a second and decided that I was really happy to be a grandma so I might as well look like one. Ha! I'm really content to be where I am in life and wouldn't go back and relive one day.
This experience reminded me of the first time someone called me a "lady" and the day I walked up on BYU campus and realized that I was a lot older than the other students walking around. There is also the first time I was called "Mrs. Osmond" and looked around for Wayne's mother.
The most defining incident that I was getting old was when the brothers did that music video, "Never Ending Song of Love." Jay's fiance at the time was young enough to be in the video, but Suzanne, Mary and I were too old so they hired some young models to take our place. I wasn't even 30 years old yet. Someone thought that The Brothers would look a lot younger if they were paired off with younger women? Do you think that helped?
The different stages of life have all been enjoyable and interesting for me. I'm not sure what the psychologists list as the different stages of life but am I in the last stage? Is there a psychologist out there that knows that answer?
It's been really fun here in Laughlin. We have a beautiful room at the end of the hall so there are two large windows, one that slides open to walk out on a small balcony. I love all the sunlight. The one with sliding door faces the beautiful pool and the other hotels that are lined up along the bank of the river. The other window faces the Colorado River so we watch people doing their water sports which is entertaining. I just went out on the balcony and took these photos to give you an idea of the view.
Last night Wayne was starved after the show so we went down to the restaurant and he ordered pancakes, sausage and scrambled eggs. I was trying to be really good and ordered some cold cereal with sliced bananas. I finally gave in and had some of Wayne's pancakes with butter and maple syrup. What a treat! He claims they still aren't as good as the pancakes at IHOP. I haven't ever had the pancakes at IHOP so I guess I'll have to give them a try. What do you think? Are IHOP's pancakes the very best?
This experience reminded me of the first time someone called me a "lady" and the day I walked up on BYU campus and realized that I was a lot older than the other students walking around. There is also the first time I was called "Mrs. Osmond" and looked around for Wayne's mother.
The most defining incident that I was getting old was when the brothers did that music video, "Never Ending Song of Love." Jay's fiance at the time was young enough to be in the video, but Suzanne, Mary and I were too old so they hired some young models to take our place. I wasn't even 30 years old yet. Someone thought that The Brothers would look a lot younger if they were paired off with younger women? Do you think that helped?
The different stages of life have all been enjoyable and interesting for me. I'm not sure what the psychologists list as the different stages of life but am I in the last stage? Is there a psychologist out there that knows that answer?
It's been really fun here in Laughlin. We have a beautiful room at the end of the hall so there are two large windows, one that slides open to walk out on a small balcony. I love all the sunlight. The one with sliding door faces the beautiful pool and the other hotels that are lined up along the bank of the river. The other window faces the Colorado River so we watch people doing their water sports which is entertaining. I just went out on the balcony and took these photos to give you an idea of the view.
Last night Wayne was starved after the show so we went down to the restaurant and he ordered pancakes, sausage and scrambled eggs. I was trying to be really good and ordered some cold cereal with sliced bananas. I finally gave in and had some of Wayne's pancakes with butter and maple syrup. What a treat! He claims they still aren't as good as the pancakes at IHOP. I haven't ever had the pancakes at IHOP so I guess I'll have to give them a try. What do you think? Are IHOP's pancakes the very best?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Answers to Leslie's Questions
I'm not sure exactly what Leslie meant by some of her questions but I'll try to answer them. By membership I mean a person is added a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There isn't any monetary requirements for membership in the Church. We need to have faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ, repent, be baptized and confirmed by the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Baptism by water is but half a baptism and is good for nothing without the other part - baptism of the spirit. Most important is that these first 2 ordinances, baptism and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, must be done with one having the authority to act in God's name or someone that has been ordained and received the priesthood of God.
Before the Savior came in the flesh, the people were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ to come, because there never was any other name whereby men could be saved. John the baptist held the Aaronic Priesthood which gave him the authority to baptize Jesus Christ, the son of God. Jesus Christ recognized John as a worthy priesthood holder and asked John to baptize him. John was a little reluctant because he knew that Jesus Christ was the only begotten of our Heavenly Father and felt unworthy. Jesus Christ knew that it was necessary for him to be baptized by one that had the correct priesthood power. John the Baptist was the forerunner to prepare the people for the Son of God.
All priesthood comes from God. There are two priesthoods in Christ's Church; the Aaronic Priesthood and the Melchizedek Priesthood. The Aaronic Priesthood administers ordinances such as baptism and the sacrament. Worthy adult males will eventually receive the Melchizedek or higher Priesthood. Worthy Melchizedek Priesthood holders can confer the gift of the Holy Ghost, ordain others to the priesthood, etc.
A man can receive priesthood authority only by proper ordination by the laying on of hands by one who has the authority. Baptism by immersion can be administered by a holder of the Aaronic priesthood. Only someone that has been ordained to the Melchizedek priesthood is able to complete the second part by the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Jesus Christ ordained his apostles.
Eventually the apostles were killed and taken from the earth and the true gospel and priesthood authority of Jesus Christ was no longer found on the earth.
Joseph Smith received the Aaronic priesthood from John the Baptist (who baptized Jesus Christ) and the Melchizedek Priesthood from Peter, James and John (apostles of the Lord, Jesus Christ) in these latter-days. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in 1830 and all the ordinances by the correct authority that are necessary for us to live with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ again are found in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In John 14 1-3 Jesus says to his apostles,
"Let not your heart be troubled; Ye believe in God, believe also in me.
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you so. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
In 1 Corinthians 15: 40-41 it says,
"There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial; but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory."
These are two instances in the bible that states there is more than one level of salvation. Everyone that has been born on the earth will be saved because of the atonement of Jesus Christ. What glory of resurrection and inheritance we receive will depend on what we do with our lives here on earth and whether the necessary ordinances have been completed by the proper authority.
There are many people that have lived on the earth when Christ's true church wasn't here. There are many others that haven't been given the chance to hear and join the true church. That is one of the reasons for our temples. All the necessary ordinances for our ancestors are done for them by mortal people so if they accept the gospel in the next life they are able to go on with their progression to inherit the highest degree of the Celestial Kingdom.
There is only one Church on the earth today that has all truth, authority and ordinances to be able to live with our Heavenly Father and His son, Jesus Christ in the Celestial Kingdom. I know it's very audacious and bold for me to say that there is only one true church on the earth that has all truth and authority from God so we may live with him and His son, Jesus Christ again after this life. I know we would all want to share this knowledge that we have with others so that they have the opportunity for themselves to receive this knowledge also if they desire.
If I did not know this to be true myself, I could not share the knowledge that I have with others. Jesus is the Christ, he lives! His gospel has been restored in these Latter-days by the prophet Joseph Smith and we have a living prophet today, President Thomas S. Monson that receives direct revelation from God to guide us and Christ's Church in these turmultous times. I know this to be true!
If you would like to read more about our beliefs, have an authorized representative answer your questions online, order a free Book of Mormon and other free materials please go to http://www.mormon.org
You can also schedule missionaries to come into your home to teach you and your family more about what you need to do to live with your family forever. I'm sorry if this comes across too preachy, but I believe it with all my heart and hope that you will take it in the spirit that it is given.
Heavenly Father and His son, Jesus Christ loves us no matter what we believe and practice and would love to give us all their blessings. Even though they want to give everyone that has lived their highest blessings, there are certain laws that are Eternal and must be obeyed and followed in order to achieve the highest degree of glory in the Celestial Kingdom and be able to live with them and our families Eternally.
Baptism by water is but half a baptism and is good for nothing without the other part - baptism of the spirit. Most important is that these first 2 ordinances, baptism and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, must be done with one having the authority to act in God's name or someone that has been ordained and received the priesthood of God.
Before the Savior came in the flesh, the people were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ to come, because there never was any other name whereby men could be saved. John the baptist held the Aaronic Priesthood which gave him the authority to baptize Jesus Christ, the son of God. Jesus Christ recognized John as a worthy priesthood holder and asked John to baptize him. John was a little reluctant because he knew that Jesus Christ was the only begotten of our Heavenly Father and felt unworthy. Jesus Christ knew that it was necessary for him to be baptized by one that had the correct priesthood power. John the Baptist was the forerunner to prepare the people for the Son of God.
All priesthood comes from God. There are two priesthoods in Christ's Church; the Aaronic Priesthood and the Melchizedek Priesthood. The Aaronic Priesthood administers ordinances such as baptism and the sacrament. Worthy adult males will eventually receive the Melchizedek or higher Priesthood. Worthy Melchizedek Priesthood holders can confer the gift of the Holy Ghost, ordain others to the priesthood, etc.
A man can receive priesthood authority only by proper ordination by the laying on of hands by one who has the authority. Baptism by immersion can be administered by a holder of the Aaronic priesthood. Only someone that has been ordained to the Melchizedek priesthood is able to complete the second part by the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Jesus Christ ordained his apostles.
Eventually the apostles were killed and taken from the earth and the true gospel and priesthood authority of Jesus Christ was no longer found on the earth.
Joseph Smith received the Aaronic priesthood from John the Baptist (who baptized Jesus Christ) and the Melchizedek Priesthood from Peter, James and John (apostles of the Lord, Jesus Christ) in these latter-days. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in 1830 and all the ordinances by the correct authority that are necessary for us to live with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ again are found in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In John 14 1-3 Jesus says to his apostles,
"Let not your heart be troubled; Ye believe in God, believe also in me.
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you so. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
In 1 Corinthians 15: 40-41 it says,
"There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial; but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory."
These are two instances in the bible that states there is more than one level of salvation. Everyone that has been born on the earth will be saved because of the atonement of Jesus Christ. What glory of resurrection and inheritance we receive will depend on what we do with our lives here on earth and whether the necessary ordinances have been completed by the proper authority.
There are many people that have lived on the earth when Christ's true church wasn't here. There are many others that haven't been given the chance to hear and join the true church. That is one of the reasons for our temples. All the necessary ordinances for our ancestors are done for them by mortal people so if they accept the gospel in the next life they are able to go on with their progression to inherit the highest degree of the Celestial Kingdom.
There is only one Church on the earth today that has all truth, authority and ordinances to be able to live with our Heavenly Father and His son, Jesus Christ in the Celestial Kingdom. I know it's very audacious and bold for me to say that there is only one true church on the earth that has all truth and authority from God so we may live with him and His son, Jesus Christ again after this life. I know we would all want to share this knowledge that we have with others so that they have the opportunity for themselves to receive this knowledge also if they desire.
If I did not know this to be true myself, I could not share the knowledge that I have with others. Jesus is the Christ, he lives! His gospel has been restored in these Latter-days by the prophet Joseph Smith and we have a living prophet today, President Thomas S. Monson that receives direct revelation from God to guide us and Christ's Church in these turmultous times. I know this to be true!
If you would like to read more about our beliefs, have an authorized representative answer your questions online, order a free Book of Mormon and other free materials please go to http://www.mormon.org
You can also schedule missionaries to come into your home to teach you and your family more about what you need to do to live with your family forever. I'm sorry if this comes across too preachy, but I believe it with all my heart and hope that you will take it in the spirit that it is given.
Heavenly Father and His son, Jesus Christ loves us no matter what we believe and practice and would love to give us all their blessings. Even though they want to give everyone that has lived their highest blessings, there are certain laws that are Eternal and must be obeyed and followed in order to achieve the highest degree of glory in the Celestial Kingdom and be able to live with them and our families Eternally.
We're at Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort in Laughlin Nevada!
We finally made it to Laughlin after waiting around the Vegas airport for two hours to pick up a van to drive to Laughlin. I thought they must have been building it by scratch but they were just having it cleaned they said.
Steve, the drummer, did a great job of driving the van with the six of us in it and all our luggage and equipment. Everyone was so hungry that we made a quick stop at McDonald's in Vegas to pick up some dinner before we started our hour and a half drive.
We arrived before it got dark so Wayne and I took a river walk along the Colorado River. It was dusk and so beautiful. I posted some more photos on Wayne's website for those who haven't ever been to Laughlin, Nevada and would like to view them.
Steve, the drummer, did a great job of driving the van with the six of us in it and all our luggage and equipment. Everyone was so hungry that we made a quick stop at McDonald's in Vegas to pick up some dinner before we started our hour and a half drive.
We arrived before it got dark so Wayne and I took a river walk along the Colorado River. It was dusk and so beautiful. I posted some more photos on Wayne's website for those who haven't ever been to Laughlin, Nevada and would like to view them.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Sitting at the Springfield Airport
Wayne and I are just sitting here at the gate at the new Springfield airport waiting for a flight to Vegas. The band is off getting lunch. Wayne bought crackers and cheese, M & M's, a Snickers bar, Milky Way and 2 packs of cinnamon Mentos for his lunch. He knows I have a weakness for cinnamon so guess who is eating the Mentos? There aren't any calories listed on the Mentos so I guess they're calorie free. Ha!
We did have some breakfast in Branson before Mary drove us up to the airport to drop us off. She is so nice to make a special trip up to take us so we didn't have to take a shuttle. Mary was sharing some stories of the Merrill Osmond Family camping trips that they take all the time together. Sounds like they have a lot of fun together as a family.
Wayne and I have never taken our family on a camping trip. Camping out to me is in a hotel room, so I'm camping out most of the time. Ha!
Jimmy, Jay and Jason are picking us up at the Las Vegas airport on their drive from Utah to Laughlin. Hope they aren't too late. Ha! It is about 1 1/2 hour drive from Vegas to Laughlin. We'll be at the Riverside Resort Hotel/Casino. Gotta go board now! Hope to see some of you there.
We're here waiting for a van in Las Vegas. Jimmy and Jay informed the band to make sure that we rode with them to Laughlin. Jimmy and Jay aren't coming until tomorrow. It's a good thing Wayne and I didn't wait at the airport for Jimmy and Jay.
We did have some breakfast in Branson before Mary drove us up to the airport to drop us off. She is so nice to make a special trip up to take us so we didn't have to take a shuttle. Mary was sharing some stories of the Merrill Osmond Family camping trips that they take all the time together. Sounds like they have a lot of fun together as a family.
Wayne and I have never taken our family on a camping trip. Camping out to me is in a hotel room, so I'm camping out most of the time. Ha!
Jimmy, Jay and Jason are picking us up at the Las Vegas airport on their drive from Utah to Laughlin. Hope they aren't too late. Ha! It is about 1 1/2 hour drive from Vegas to Laughlin. We'll be at the Riverside Resort Hotel/Casino. Gotta go board now! Hope to see some of you there.
We're here waiting for a van in Las Vegas. Jimmy and Jay informed the band to make sure that we rode with them to Laughlin. Jimmy and Jay aren't coming until tomorrow. It's a good thing Wayne and I didn't wait at the airport for Jimmy and Jay.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
"The Wii Fitters" report here!
Have you reached your goals this week for your exercise? I have exercised at least 30 minutes 5 times this week.
One day this week Wayne decided that he wanted some pancakes and eggs, so we walked all the way from the Music City Center to the other end of highway 76 to IHOP. It took us about an hour to walk there and we enjoyed our dinners. Wayne ordered 3 eggs and 3 large pancakes and I ordered a low calorie dinner with chicken, broccoli and a dinner salad.
It was much more difficult to walk back to the hotel because our legs were tired, so we sat down to rest a couple of times on our way back. It took us about 1 1/2 hours to walk back to the hotel. Our legs actually burned a little but we were back to normal by the next day.
Wayne loves the pancakes at IHOP so I'm sure we'll be taking another walk to IHOP before we leave Branson in June.
Tomorrow we leave for Laughlin, Nevada for a week. It might be nice to have a change of scenery.
One day this week Wayne decided that he wanted some pancakes and eggs, so we walked all the way from the Music City Center to the other end of highway 76 to IHOP. It took us about an hour to walk there and we enjoyed our dinners. Wayne ordered 3 eggs and 3 large pancakes and I ordered a low calorie dinner with chicken, broccoli and a dinner salad.
It was much more difficult to walk back to the hotel because our legs were tired, so we sat down to rest a couple of times on our way back. It took us about 1 1/2 hours to walk back to the hotel. Our legs actually burned a little but we were back to normal by the next day.
Wayne loves the pancakes at IHOP so I'm sure we'll be taking another walk to IHOP before we leave Branson in June.
Tomorrow we leave for Laughlin, Nevada for a week. It might be nice to have a change of scenery.
Why does a child need to be baptized at age 8?
Thank you for the opportunity of answering your questions about my religion. I've really enjoyed reflecting and thinking about them. It's also been challenging to actually write the answers down on the blog instead of answering them verbally.
I guess it would be more accurate to say that a child doesn't need to be baptized BEFORE the age of 8. There are many individual circumstances where a child may not be ready to be baptized at the age of 8.
Since our Savior, Jesus Christ, was baptized and he is perfect, there are more reasons that we need to be baptized than just to receive a remission of our sins. Jesus himself was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. Baptism symbolizes death, burial and resurrection and can only be valid when baptized by immersion by the correct priesthood authority. It is clear that John the Baptist baptized in that manner. By being baptized Jesus obeyed the law himself and set the example for all mankind.
"And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water; and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
(Matthew 3:15-17)
Baptism by immersion has several purposes. It is for the remission of sins, for membership in the Church and for entrance into the highest degree (Celestial Kingdom) of salvation. For baptism to be complete, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost must be conferred by someone with the power and authority from God (Priesthood).
Baptism is the introductory ordinance of the gospel and must be followed by baptism of the spirit in order to be complete. Baptism is not optional. Jesus said a person must be born of water and of the spirit.
You can click on the label: confirmation of the gift of the Holy Ghost below and then on the comments to read Diane's comments and personal account of her baptism and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
I guess it would be more accurate to say that a child doesn't need to be baptized BEFORE the age of 8. There are many individual circumstances where a child may not be ready to be baptized at the age of 8.
Since our Savior, Jesus Christ, was baptized and he is perfect, there are more reasons that we need to be baptized than just to receive a remission of our sins. Jesus himself was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. Baptism symbolizes death, burial and resurrection and can only be valid when baptized by immersion by the correct priesthood authority. It is clear that John the Baptist baptized in that manner. By being baptized Jesus obeyed the law himself and set the example for all mankind.
"And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water; and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
(Matthew 3:15-17)
Baptism by immersion has several purposes. It is for the remission of sins, for membership in the Church and for entrance into the highest degree (Celestial Kingdom) of salvation. For baptism to be complete, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost must be conferred by someone with the power and authority from God (Priesthood).
Baptism is the introductory ordinance of the gospel and must be followed by baptism of the spirit in order to be complete. Baptism is not optional. Jesus said a person must be born of water and of the spirit.
You can click on the label: confirmation of the gift of the Holy Ghost below and then on the comments to read Diane's comments and personal account of her baptism and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
"An Apple a Day Bunch" Report
"An Apple a Day Bunch" please report for the week May 10-17th. I'm having a hard time maintaining my weight here in Branson. Because the travel scales aren't accurate it is even more frustrating. I can get on the scales 5 different times in a row and get 5 different numbers of how much I weigh. I really don't know for sure how much I weigh. Need to find a solution to this. Any ideas? I've been snacking on Birthday and Mother's Day candy too, which doesn't help either. Oh well, it's another week so I'll start keeping better track of my calorie count.
Some of us have been on this diet since January so maybe it's time to find a way to help us get motivated again. Any suggestions?
Some of us have been on this diet since January so maybe it's time to find a way to help us get motivated again. Any suggestions?
Saturday, May 15, 2010
"Wonky's Book Worms" Report Your Reading
Wayne and I finished our reading for the week tonight. The story of Samson was really interesting to read again. It's hard to believe that after Delilah told her people the secret that Samson revealed to her as the reason for his strength three previous times and she ran and told her people that he finally told her the real truth thinking that she wouldn't tell the 4th time? Why did Samson finally trust her with the real truth the 4th time?
Could Samson have been deceived so much that he trusted her and didn't think that she was going to tell her people the secret of his strength after he revealed it to her? What would make him think that she wouldn't do the same thing that she had already done three times before? Did he feel that he was too strong to ever allow anyone to cut his hair?
Why do you think Samson finally gave in to her and told her his secret? It doesn't make any sense from a logical standpoint so it must have been an emotional decision. Maybe there is more behind the scripture Judges 16:16 that wasn't recorded.
"And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words and urged him, so that his soul was vexed to death; that he told her all his heart..." Did Samson finally give up because he loved her more than God, was his faith gradually weakened to the point that he didn't care anymore, or did he have so much pride in his abilities that he didn't think that he'd lose his strength even if his hair was razored.
From Judges 16: 20 we get the idea that Samson still thought he had his strength when he was awoke out of his sleep. At what point do you think he realized that his hair was shaven and his strength gone? What are your thoughts?
From this example, I realize even more now that I need to stay strong by continually praying, obeying the Lord's commandments, repenting of my mistakes, hold on to the word of God and endure to the end. I'm sure Delilah exposed Samson to unrighteous practices and beliefs that eventually weakened him. We know that Delilah's love of money was her weakness. She loved money more that Samson and God but then again she was an unbeliever. How can we all apply what we have learned here in our own lives?
This week we are reading Judges Chapter 17-21, Ruth 1-4, through 1 Samuel chapter 5. It's never too late to join "Wonky's Book Worms." Just jump in and start reading. We'd love to have everyone start reading that has a desire to join us at any time. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas. It adds so much!
Could Samson have been deceived so much that he trusted her and didn't think that she was going to tell her people the secret of his strength after he revealed it to her? What would make him think that she wouldn't do the same thing that she had already done three times before? Did he feel that he was too strong to ever allow anyone to cut his hair?
Why do you think Samson finally gave in to her and told her his secret? It doesn't make any sense from a logical standpoint so it must have been an emotional decision. Maybe there is more behind the scripture Judges 16:16 that wasn't recorded.
"And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words and urged him, so that his soul was vexed to death; that he told her all his heart..." Did Samson finally give up because he loved her more than God, was his faith gradually weakened to the point that he didn't care anymore, or did he have so much pride in his abilities that he didn't think that he'd lose his strength even if his hair was razored.
From Judges 16: 20 we get the idea that Samson still thought he had his strength when he was awoke out of his sleep. At what point do you think he realized that his hair was shaven and his strength gone? What are your thoughts?
From this example, I realize even more now that I need to stay strong by continually praying, obeying the Lord's commandments, repenting of my mistakes, hold on to the word of God and endure to the end. I'm sure Delilah exposed Samson to unrighteous practices and beliefs that eventually weakened him. We know that Delilah's love of money was her weakness. She loved money more that Samson and God but then again she was an unbeliever. How can we all apply what we have learned here in our own lives?
This week we are reading Judges Chapter 17-21, Ruth 1-4, through 1 Samuel chapter 5. It's never too late to join "Wonky's Book Worms." Just jump in and start reading. We'd love to have everyone start reading that has a desire to join us at any time. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas. It adds so much!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Wii Fit Plus with Balance Board
Has anyone tried Wii Fit Plus instead of the regular Wii Fit? I miss doing Wii Fit and this seems like a better option.
There are probably not as many breaks and so you can get through your exercises faster?
I didn't know until I saw this on Amazon that I could buy the combination of a balance board and the Wii Fit plus software together.
First, I need to buy a Wii system because I've been using Joe and Michelle's Wii. Can I only buy the Wii console with Wii sports? What else do you all suggest?
It would be fun to have one here in Branson especially when we are here for over 3 months straight in the fall. It will probably be too cold to walk outside every day.
There are probably not as many breaks and so you can get through your exercises faster?
I didn't know until I saw this on Amazon that I could buy the combination of a balance board and the Wii Fit plus software together.
First, I need to buy a Wii system because I've been using Joe and Michelle's Wii. Can I only buy the Wii console with Wii sports? What else do you all suggest?
It would be fun to have one here in Branson especially when we are here for over 3 months straight in the fall. It will probably be too cold to walk outside every day.
That has to be Wayne Osmond!
"That has to be Wayne Osmond! Only Wayne would wear a pair of reading glasses with the price tag still on them." exclaimed Debbie.
Wayne and I have been doing a lot of walking here in Branson. One evening this week we decided to walk up to Walmart and while I was browsing around the store, Wayne decided to play his Facebook scrabble friends on his IPhone, so he plopped down on a bench near the pharmacy.
Later when I saw him sitting there wearing these reading glasses, I suggested that he buy another color since they were a reddish purple. He replied that he wasn't planning on buying them, just borrowing them while he was waiting for me.
Debbie just happened to be at Walmart at the same time and was walking by when she noticed this guy sitting there with a big price tag on his glass. I noticed that she was looking at him and struck up a conversation with Debbie.
I met a new friend that night. Debbie is so friendly, positive, and sweet. We talked for quite awhile about everything while Wayne was in another world immersed in his scrabble games.
Osmondportal.com
Have you had a chance to look at the new Osmond Portal? Go to http://www.osmondportal.com
Amy set it up for everyone free of charge. She's so sweet! Wayne and I think it's really cool looking. You can click on the website to go immediately to one of the original 9 Osmonds. It's clean looking and easy to find your favorite Osmond website. Let us know what you think?
Amy set it up for everyone free of charge. She's so sweet! Wayne and I think it's really cool looking. You can click on the website to go immediately to one of the original 9 Osmonds. It's clean looking and easy to find your favorite Osmond website. Let us know what you think?
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Amy's Dissertation
Elma, I had to look up the word dissertation to get an exact definition myself. I never knew the difference between a thesis and dissertation so thank you for asking that question.
"A dissertation or thesis is a document submitted in support of candidature for a degree or professional qualification presenting the author's research and findings. The word thesis is used as part of a bachelor's or master's course, while dissertation is normally applied to a doctorate."
Amy graduated with a bachelor degree in English and a master degree in English. I remember reading her thesis that she wrote for her master's degree. She just graduated with a doctorate degree so she completed a dissertation.
Amy's dissertation explored organizational identification in one of the polygamous organizations in Utah. She took the theory of organizational identification and tested it by applying three rhetorical research methodologies to the data. Polygamous organizations are different but there are common rhetorical devices used that may be generalized. She was able to make conclusions about rhetoric surrounding one of the most interesting, complex and frustrating social issues in the state of Utah. It's very interesting reading.
My three girls have been training for a triathlon since January. They are all meeting in St. George to compete together on Saturday. I think Jeff might be also be participating with them. They'll be biking, running and swimming. Sounds exhausting to me.
Amy's dissertation explored organizational identification in one of the polygamous organizations in Utah. She took the theory of organizational identification and tested it by applying three rhetorical research methodologies to the data. Polygamous organizations are different but there are common rhetorical devices used that may be generalized. She was able to make conclusions about rhetoric surrounding one of the most interesting, complex and frustrating social issues in the state of Utah. It's very interesting reading.
My three girls have been training for a triathlon since January. They are all meeting in St. George to compete together on Saturday. I think Jeff might be also be participating with them. They'll be biking, running and swimming. Sounds exhausting to me.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Sadie, Kathryn, Kathlyn and Kathleen
I had fun talking to Kathryn, Sadie and Kathleen this weekend. One of them mentioned that they didn't really want me to put up their photo on the Internet and I said I wouldn't if they didn't want me to. The only problem is I can't remember which one said this and if it was a definite "no." You can let me know if you don't like the photo and I'll take it off. I think it is a cute photo of the 3 Kathys and Sadie. Don't you? Wayne was the photographer that used my IPhone for the great picture. Sadie's Kathy even gave Jay, Wayne and I a ride to church on Sunday. Everyone was giving her different directions in the car on the best way to the church. Hope it wasn't too stressful. Thanks Kathy! If we walked to church we would have to get up really, really early and we're on show business time.
Did Maia choose to be baptized at 8 years old?
"We believe that men will be punished for their own sins and not for Adam's transgression."
[Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith]
"We believe the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost"
[Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith]
I'm not a scholar of religions but I'm going to answer Cathy's question as I understand it.
We believe babies are born innocent and aren't accountable for their own mistakes or sins until they are 8 years old. That is why we don't baptize babies. We believe that if a baby or young child under 8 years old dies before they are baptized that they will automatically live with God again.
By age 8 years old a child has been taught and knows right from wrong. They understand the covenants or promises that are making at baptism. An 8 year old child is interviewed by their bishop to make sure that they have faith in Jesus Christ, understand the process of repentance, realize what an important step they are taking, understand the covenants they are making with God, are willing to live the Gospel and have a desire to be baptized. The child decides whether they want to be baptized. It is their choice. They are not forced or compelled in any way.
An interesting tidbit from Wayne:
Wayne has always been interested in science and wants me to share with you that science has proved that at around the age of 8 years old the alpha brain waves make a significant shift very distinctly which could mean that the person has matured to a different level of understanding. It's just interesting that this takes place at the age that we believe a child is accountable and knows right from wrong.
[Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith]
"We believe the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost"
[Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith]
I'm not a scholar of religions but I'm going to answer Cathy's question as I understand it.
We believe babies are born innocent and aren't accountable for their own mistakes or sins until they are 8 years old. That is why we don't baptize babies. We believe that if a baby or young child under 8 years old dies before they are baptized that they will automatically live with God again.
By age 8 years old a child has been taught and knows right from wrong. They understand the covenants or promises that are making at baptism. An 8 year old child is interviewed by their bishop to make sure that they have faith in Jesus Christ, understand the process of repentance, realize what an important step they are taking, understand the covenants they are making with God, are willing to live the Gospel and have a desire to be baptized. The child decides whether they want to be baptized. It is their choice. They are not forced or compelled in any way.
An interesting tidbit from Wayne:
Wayne has always been interested in science and wants me to share with you that science has proved that at around the age of 8 years old the alpha brain waves make a significant shift very distinctly which could mean that the person has matured to a different level of understanding. It's just interesting that this takes place at the age that we believe a child is accountable and knows right from wrong.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Is it possible for an atheist to marry a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
Nathalie from France asked me this question so I'm going to attempt to answer it. This is just my opinion - not an official stand or statement of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
"We claim the privilege of worshiping almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience and allow all men the same privilege. Let them worship, how, where or what they may." [Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith]
We all have our free agency to worship and marry whoever we wish. An atheist can marry a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My main question is why would they want to?
Our lives as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are centered around God. What would an atheist have in common with someone that worships God and his son, Jesus Christ? We aren't forced to spend time going to church and participate in church activities. We don't have to do anything at all but we desire to.
Because of the knowledge of the plan of life, we desire and want to spend our time sharing our knowledge of what we know to be true. It is a natural expression of our love for God to want to learn more about Him by attending Church, studying His Word, keeping His commandments, doing what he would want us to do and trying to become more like Him.
I know a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wouldn't be happy being married to an atheist so I'm assuming the opposite would also be true too. How can someone be convinced or prove that there isn't a God?
"We claim the privilege of worshiping almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience and allow all men the same privilege. Let them worship, how, where or what they may." [Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith]
We all have our free agency to worship and marry whoever we wish. An atheist can marry a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My main question is why would they want to?
Our lives as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are centered around God. What would an atheist have in common with someone that worships God and his son, Jesus Christ? We aren't forced to spend time going to church and participate in church activities. We don't have to do anything at all but we desire to.
Because of the knowledge of the plan of life, we desire and want to spend our time sharing our knowledge of what we know to be true. It is a natural expression of our love for God to want to learn more about Him by attending Church, studying His Word, keeping His commandments, doing what he would want us to do and trying to become more like Him.
I know a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wouldn't be happy being married to an atheist so I'm assuming the opposite would also be true too. How can someone be convinced or prove that there isn't a God?
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Wayne's a mother!
Before the end of Sacrament Meeting today the bishop announced for everyone to stay in their seats a little longer after the meeting because the young men had a little gift for every adult woman 18 years and older. I don't know if Wayne couldn't hear him or if he forgot but when it was time to give out the gifts Wayne was the first one up and standing. I pulled on his slacks to get him to sit down. He looked around to notice that he was the only male standing and probably the only person standing in the area we were sitting.
After he sat back down he explained to me that he was a mother too because he helped me sometimes. There were snickers and smiles coming from almost a whole room full of people that were sitting behind us. Maybe Wayne sensed that there was candy in the little boxes because on the drive home Mary gave Wayne her Mother's Day box. You know how much Wayne loves chocolate so he really enjoyed his little Mother's Day gift.
I loved all the attention from my children today! It was fun to hear from them and have them wish me "Happy Mother's Day." What is better than hearing your children express how much they love you? I am also blessed to be able to wish my own mother "Happy Mother's Day" even though I wished I could have shared the day with her. Of course we couldn't tell Mother Osmond "Happy Mother's Day" but I'll always think about her on Mother's Day and believe that it is more than coincidence that she passed away on this special day.
After he sat back down he explained to me that he was a mother too because he helped me sometimes. There were snickers and smiles coming from almost a whole room full of people that were sitting behind us. Maybe Wayne sensed that there was candy in the little boxes because on the drive home Mary gave Wayne her Mother's Day box. You know how much Wayne loves chocolate so he really enjoyed his little Mother's Day gift.
I loved all the attention from my children today! It was fun to hear from them and have them wish me "Happy Mother's Day." What is better than hearing your children express how much they love you? I am also blessed to be able to wish my own mother "Happy Mother's Day" even though I wished I could have shared the day with her. Of course we couldn't tell Mother Osmond "Happy Mother's Day" but I'll always think about her on Mother's Day and believe that it is more than coincidence that she passed away on this special day.
The "Wii Fitters" Report Here!
We didn't rent a car here in Branson so we have been walking almost everywhere. Even though I walked at least a 1/2 hour 6 days this week I'm probably not getting as much exercise as I do at home. Living in a hotel room you don't have to move very far but I'm still trying. How is everyone else doing?
"An Apple a Day Bunch" Report
How are you doing with your healthy eating? It's been a lot tougher living in a hotel room than at home. We tend to eat out more in restaurants and even when I'm careful I don't always know how many calories I'm eating. Does anyone know how many calories are in Star Bucks vanilla steamers? I've been drinking one every night after the shows.
I think I lost a pound this week. I wouldn't recommend the travel scales that I have. I get on them about 6 times and they have a different weight each time, then I just take the average. They're called "Fold A-Weight Scale." Does anyone have a really good travel scale that they can recommend?
Saturday, May 8, 2010
"Wonky's Book Worms" Report Here!
Wayne and I caught up on our reading tonight since he didn't have a show. The reading for next week is Judges Chapters 3 - 16. We had a lot of fun trying to say all those names and places. Ha!
One generation after Joshua and the children of Israel are already forgetting the Lord and worshipping other gods. It's unbelievable. But then I look at the change of attitude toward God before 9/11 and right after where it was suddenly acceptable to pray and talk about God. Where do you think we are now in the cycle?
Happy Mother's Day!!!
Happy Mother's Day to all mothers, which means all women. Even if you aren't biologically a mother to someone you can still be a mother. Many women aren't able to have their own children but use their nurturing qualities to help others. Judy emailed me awhile ago and she was throwing her niece a birthday party at her house and had invited all her niece's friends. Wow! I call that mothering. I know that many times another person instead of a parent can touch a child and make a lasting impact that changes the whole direction of a child for the positive. .jpg)
I know you've all heard, "It takes a whole community to raise a child." That is so true. I'd like to thank the numerous people that have had such a wonderful influence and impact on my children through the years. Many I know about and I'm sure there are others that I'm not aware of. Parents and family members of my children's friends, teachers, professors, church leaders, soccer coaches, music teachers, grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc. The list goes on and on. Thank you for all you have done to help Wayne and me with our children.
I'd especially like to thank my own mother, Donna Rhees White, on this Mother's Day for all she has done for me. She has always been there and I know has felt unappreciated and taken for granted at times. We all forgot to wish Mom "Happy Birthday" one year and it was that day I realized that a mom was actually a normal person with normal feelings. We've never forgotten her birthday since. For some reason as a self-centered child I thought it was my mom's job to do what she did for me. It took quite a few years I'm ashamed to say for me to realize that it was her choice to help me and to start appreciating all the service that she did in my behalf. Until becoming a mother myself I didn't realize all the sacrifices and unselfish service that she gave and still gives me.
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Thank you so much mom for all those nights you stayed up late waiting for me, sewing my drill team outfits, and helping me with my school projects. Thank you for driving me to all my music, dance, baton, ice skating lessons and then waiting for me so I'd have a ride home. Thank you for sacrificing many of your own wants so I could have a new prom dress and a college education. Thank you for all the delicious home made meals and for making our home a secure and beautiful place to live. Thank you for sharing your faith with me and being such a good example for me to try and emulate. Thank you for your unselfish attitude, love and for sensing my needs. Thank you for listening to me go on and on about all my complaints and for your support in all that I do. Thank you for sharing your prospective of life when I needed some reassurance and direction. Thank you for loving me even when I was unlovable. Thank you for always being a woman with great integrity, perspective, faith and love. The list goes on and on. I couldn't even begin to list all that my mother has done for me.
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I love these photos of my mom. Don't I have the most beautiful mother? I love you so much mom and will be eternally grateful for all the sacrifices you have made to make my life so secure, rich, and full. You are an angel mother!
Friday, May 7, 2010
Amy received the Degree of Doctor today!
The convocation was for the College of Humanities at the University of Utah. Amy received the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy under the heading of Communications. Jeff, Jacob, Maia, Lizzy, Jenny, Sarah, Michelle, Grandpa and Grandma White, and Jeff's parents were all there to see her receive her diploma. You can see them hooding Amy in the black gown between a professor in the purple and black on the left and the professor in black and blue on the right.
Wayne and I were sad that we weren't able to attend because we know how hard she has worked to accomplish her goal. Amy's professors told her that it was really rare that someone followed through to receive their degree after they got married and moved out of the state. One professor suggested that she wait to get married until after she had finished her doctorate degree. When she was expecting Lizzy she was afraid to tell her professors but after having Jenny 13 months later she was really nervous that they might not approve.
Jeff should have been up there receiving the diploma with Amy. She would never have received it without Jeff's unselfish support and encouragement to keep her going, helping with the children so she could finish her dissertation, etc. Amy is so relieved to have it all finished and we are so proud of her. Jeff is finally going to find out what it's like to have Amy out of school. We love you Jeff!!!
Amy finished all her class work at the University of Utah before she and Jeff were married but continued her research, passed her oral exams, wrote her dissertation and defended her dissertation in front of her committee of faculty members, etc. On top of all her school work, she added two more beautiful girls to their family, has been a faculty member of Arizona State teaching online classes, taught piano, violin and singing lessons, performed in a community production as Maria in "The Sound of Music," and started a publishing company, etc. Now the question is, "What will Amy do next?"
Most important is that Amy has her priorities in order. She's a wonderful wife and mother, active in church and community affairs, and an awesome daughter, sister and friend. Amy is loved by everyone she meets because she is so sweet, genuine, and trusting of others. She always looks for the best in others even when they aren't looking out for her best interests. She loves people and they can feel her sincerity and concern for them. She's so special to us - our first little colicky baby that kept us up every night for her first year. She was too busy learning to have time to sleep. Congratulations Amy!!! We really wish we could have been there to share our joy with you. We will have to have a second celebration when we see you! She's the young lady with the black and red gown in the photo below.
When Wayne was out of town for one of the children's birthdays, they didn't seem to mind as much because that meant that they had two birthday celebrations. One on their real birthday when dad wasn't there and another birthday celebration with dad when he got home from his tour. No one complained but you'd have to ask Amy, Steve, Greg, Sarah and Michelle if they were disappointed when their dad wasn't home on their real birthday. They realized that it was necessary that their dad wasn't home so I don't remember ever hearing them complain. I loved what a home teacher said to them one evening. "Thank you for being willing to share your dad with the world."
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Kandi's Korner
Wayne and I walked across the street from the Music City Center to have a salad at Applebees. We then visited The Apple Tree Mall that is located in the same area. It was fun to browse all the crafts and collectibles. We visited Kandi's Korner and I wanted to take a photo but remembered seeing a sign before we entered the building that said no one was allowed to take photos. Kandi's Korner is really cute with a quite a variety of items.
If you look on Jay's website and click on Kandi's Korner on the top menu, you can see photos that she has posted in her April 22, 2010 newsletter of her beautiful displays. If you're in Branson you should go take a closer look. It's a fun place. Wayne even enjoyed it.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
What's the earliest memory that you have?
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My earliest memory was when I was sitting in a high chair in my grandpa and grandma Rhees' kitchen. I had on one of those old hard plastic bibs that comes out in front with a place to catch all your food. I had eaten all my food except my cottage cheese. My mom must have told me that I couldn't get out of the high chair until I had eaten all my food. I really didn't want to eat the cottage cheese so when no one was looking I scooped the cottage cheese into my bib and said I was finished.
I felt so guilty because I had put the cottage cheese in the bib on purpose and knew that I was supposed to eat it. I hoped that no one would notice and they didn't. I got out of the high chair without anyone questioning why the bottom of the bib was full of cottage cheese. I know that I felt really guilty because I haven't ever forgotten what I did.
I probably wasn't over three years old or I wouldn't have been sitting in a high chair. This thought came to me today. The light of Christ (our conscience) was with me when I was born. Even at three years old or younger I knew I was supposed to obey my parents and in this case - eat all my food and I chose not to. I knew what I had done wasn't right, but I did it anyway. I made a wrong choice.
Everyone is born with the light of Christ. When we make choices that are wrong the light gets dimmer and we aren't as sensitive. When we continue to make right choices the light stays strong and we maintain a strong conscience that guides us throughout our life. I learned at an early age how I felt when I used my free agency and deliberately chose to make wrong choice.
I guess I should tell my parents after 55 years. Maybe they'll read my blog post and I won't have to. Ha!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Thank You Dad and Mom For My Birthday!
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In this photo I was 24 hours old. Today I'm 57 years old. Isn't that crazy. Only three years until I turn sixty and that's starting to sound old. I actually like getting older. I'm a lot more comfortable with myself now than I was in younger years. Is that how everyone else feels?
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My dad was in the army in Korea when I was born. He received a telegram to notify him that he'd become a father to a little baby girl, Kathlyn Louise White. He didn't actually see or hold me until I was 3 months old. This photo was taken after he returned from the Korean war.
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I was a colicky baby which was difficult for my mother because she was staying with her parents for the year that my father was in Korea. Every night she would have to hold me and pace back and forth to keep me from crying and waking up her sisters and my grandparents. If she put me down for even a minute I'd start crying and screaming. I've had a couple colicky babies so I know how much fun that is. NOT!
I'd like to thank my dad and mom for being such wonderful parents. I have always felt really safe and secure. I knew that they would do anything for me and they have done everything for me. They are both beautiful people inside and out. They are really bright, sensible, and practical people. They have always made very wise decisions so I really trust them and any advice that they give me. They've helped me through some tough times which I will appreciate eternally! I've been so blessed to have their support and love throughout my life. They are still strong, hard working, caring, wonderful parents. Thank you for all the wonderful birthdays. I love you both so much!!!
Monday, May 3, 2010
"The Wii Fitters" report here!
I reached my exercise goal this week. How did everyone else do? The weather is beautiful here in Branson. A little too hot to take a walk in the middle of the day but we did anyway and I got a little sunburned. Wayne and I found the guest laundry room here at the hotel tonight. We're having an exciting evening relaxing, washing clothes, Wayne playing Scrabble and me on my computer. This is great having access to a washing machine and dryer without having to go to the laundry mat in the mall like we usually do. It's also only $1.00 a load. Quite a deal. The only disadvantage is that we can only do one load of clothes at a time instead of several loads all at once and get it all done in just over an hour. We have to use our room key to get into the laundry room but there is a dead bolt on the door too, so it's really safe.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
"An Apple a Day Bunch" Report
How is your healthy diet going? All the vanilla drinks from Starbucks have hurt my diet. I'm afraid that I've gained weight this week. It's hard to tell now that I'm using the travel scales again. I'm going to cut out all Starbucks drinks this week and write everything down. I'm hoping the extra weight will slack off this week.
Maia was baptized yesterday!
Maia has turned 8 years old and decided to be baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We are so happy that she made such an important decision. Yesterday, Maia, was baptized and confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She's such a darling, sweet granddaughter. Wayne and I are really disappointed that we weren't able to be in California to attend her baptism. We love and miss her so much! We wished that we could have been there to participate in one of the most important events of Maia's life. Doesn't she look like an angel?
"Wonky's Book Worms" Report Here!
The reading for next week is Joshua Chapter 12 through Judges Chapter 2. Wayne and I have 2 more chapters to read in order to catch up. I love the the story of Joshua and the wall of Jericho falling down. How is your reading coming?
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Joe's Graduation
I loved these photos so I thought I'd post them for you to see. I wrote about Joe's graduation in a former post "Sitting Here in the Kansas City Airport" but didn't have any close up pictures to share at that time. Joe graduated with a Masters degree in Accounting at Brigham Young University. We love Joe so much and appreciate all that he and Michelle do for us. It's so nice not to be concerned about our home in Utah because they are taking care of everything. Aren't they a darling couple? Their love story is just like a fairy tale.
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