Decker Family

Photo Book

2012-01-17T23:44:00.001-08:00

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Amanda's Top Ten of 2011

2011-12-30T23:11:00.000-08:00

August to December : Living with the Huntsmans :D cutest family alive.

Coming Home to my family and BEST FRIEND Eve Smith! :D

Plane Ride with Vince and Dane!

Lake Powell with the Taylors! Labor day weekend

Temples with Sandra :D

Trek with Suncrest 10th! the. best. ever! July

DC trip with mom!! :D June.

Graduating from OREM HIGH! :D generations of tigers ;p.

"chip", Springville Museum of Art, Congressional award and all that came with it!!

Seattle Choir tour!! :D :D I LOVE THAT PLACE!!! April

Scott Family

2011-11-15T18:46:00.000-08:00

Ben eating his 1 year birthday cake.

Derek

Cooper

Donny

James

Jayden

Jayden and Addie.

I thought I should swipe a few pics from Amryn's laptop since it is here at my house. I will eventually 'slurp' my blog- so this is a great place to keep them in the meantime. Love these kids!!!!

Getting In The Spirit Of Halloween

2011-10-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time
since anyone carved pumpkins around this house.

Actually we did the deed at Andi's new place.

Andi's pumpkin is real cute with an Owl perched on a branch

and a cool effect with reversed carving of leaves.

I hope to get a pic. I think Amanda has one on her cell phone.

Glowing from within.

I poked holes and stuck string lights from the inside.

Amanda free handed this beauty!

House Hunting

2011-10-21T23:52:00.000-07:00

Yup, I saw this on someone's fridge.

This crane mobile was in a charming

master bedroom.

A bright painting in a colorful home.

Colors of Autumn in a pretty neighborhood.

Beauty at the steps of a tidy home.

I saw this one today :)

In Honor of October

2011-10-18T23:42:00.000-07:00

This glowing creature was in a web twenty feet up

between two very tall trees.

I am glad to say he was not athletic,

(as in the jumping kind)

and he didn't seem to drool.

(thank goodness).

I hope I never view a web this large, close up.

Photo Book

2011-09-21T22:46:00.001-07:00

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Photo Book

2011-09-19T21:47:00.001-07:00

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Do you think Heaven might look like Lake Powell?

2011-09-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

The ideal way to finish the summer.

Stuck like glue.

Perfectly comfortable being in the sun,
on a boat, with a good looking guy.

This smile never left her face, I'm sure of it.

I love you, Amanda.

Love MOM

Flying!!!

2011-09-06T11:49:00.001-07:00

Talk about icing on the cake-

After an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G weekend at Lake Powell

this girl gets to go flying!

Girls take note- Date guys who know people with boats and planes.

Who needs a plane?
This girl is flying high on joy alone!

Too cool.

Spectacular view!

Perfect way to lock in those memories

of a perfect weekend.

Thank you DANE!

Missing Amanda

2011-09-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

When Andi married and moved away I missed her a lot. The sound of her voice, the little conversations we had, knowing what she was doing, where she was going, when she would be home . . . all that ceased abruptly one day. Even though Andi is missed, Amanda was here so even though the house became quieter- it was not silenced. Amanda and I have since traveled to Washington DC together, We have cleaned the house together, smashed, created photo books, sewed, blah, blah and blah together. I kinda got used to the conversations we had and hearing her sing as she hung out at home. Now it is quiet.
The upside is that I can chew my gum as loud as I wish, but I sure do miss Amanda's smiling face and positive outlook on everything. Good thing she is close enough to come home during college breaks. Miss YOU, Amanda!

Playing With The Boys

2011-08-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

What kid can resist water?

Tyler and Blake came over to play while

mom, dad and Tanner went to a wedding.

We had a great time!

We watched Shark Tale while the clothes dried. :)

The Fridge- The Proper Place To Display A Childs Artwork

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

Amanda was inspired to draw this picture

of herself and her friend for his birthday gift.

This is a photo I took of Sean and Amanda

the morning they left on Trek.

Okay- so this picture only hung on my fridge for a few days.

Sean- I hope you realize just how lucky you are!

To have Amanda as a friend, and

to have a bit of her talent hanging in your house.

5x7 Folded Card

2011-07-31T15:17:00.001-07:00

Birthday Colors Blue Birthday 5x7 folded card

To view our collection of birthday card designs, click here.

View the entire collection of cards.

Playing With Tanner

2011-07-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

This is Tanner, one of my Grandsons.

One day he and I got to play a whole day together.
It was so much fun to play with this little guy.

We made faces, sang songs, chewed on fingers,

slobbered, and had a great time together.

We even took a dozen photographs

. . . or so.

He is such a happy, easy going kind of guy.

Love you, Tanner!

Drowsy Drivers Please Pull Over

2011-07-11T22:59:00.000-07:00

I took this pic earlier this year in the spring. This was not an unusual occurance for a Sunday afternoon. Amanda would have her scriptures, phone, journal and Personal Progress book close by.

How I Made 5-Gallon Bucket Cushions For Pioneer Trek

2011-06-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture tutorial on how I made a seat cushion for a five gallon storage bucket to be taken on Trek. Actually I have now sewn many cushions and yet have a few more to sew. I created this pattern and instructions so the Young Women in my ward could have a cushy seat for their Trek experience coming up soon. I had searched the Internet for ideas and patterns and I was not pleased with what appeared to be not-too-comfy seat cushions I found advertised for sale or the 'stuff and glue' MIY versions I found.

I happen to have bolts of Cordura stored in my craft room so I donated the fabric for this project. I did purchase 3" foam (from JoAnne's Fabric store) and cut 12" foam circles for the cushion insert. The cordura comes in 54"-60" width. I cut two 3.5" strips for each seat cover. I also cut two 13" circles from the same fabric.

To begin sew rights sides together of one circle and one strip.

I folded the beginning edge to create a finished seam. The end will overlap by at least an inch so it will be a finished seam w/o stitching.

This is the tricky part. I sewed three pieces at once to save time. The second circle piece is sewn to the first strip WRONG sides together. On the other side of the fist strip you attach the 2nd strip with right sides together.

I only needed to utilize pins just to get it started smoothly.

After the stitching is started I was able to sew all three layers at once by guiding the fabric as it came to the pressure foot.

Leave a 4-5 inch opening .

Stuff the foam circle into the hole.

Pin just the 1st strip with the second circle.

Zig-zag closed.

This is the tough part- holding the project close enough to get under the pressure foot.

Finish pinning the 2nd strip to the nearly finished cushion.

Clip off any extra length from the 2nd strip. This is where the end overlaps the beginning.

Straight stitch the three levels of fabric together.

Pin the beginning to the ending. I tacked these together with a zig-zag.

Zig-zag 1/4 " elastic to the inside edge of 2nd strip. Pulling elastic as you go. I held the cushion with one hand and pulled elastic with the other as my foot controlled the speed.

Ta-Da!

Here's how it looks finished. And on the bucket. This one is for Nicole M.

Art In The Making

2011-06-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

These are a few of the photos Amanda and I took in attempts of creating a visual for an oil Amanda wants to paint with reflection and color being the focus. I love the patterns depicted in the shaped portions of the glass.

Washington DC or Bust!

2011-06-11T00:12:00.000-07:00

The airline ticket vouchers finally arrived from Southwest Airlines. Now it may finally sink in that Amanda and I will be traveling to Washington DC in less than two weeks! We will be attending a ceremony for the Congressional Art Award winners on the steps of the capital on June 22ND.

Wahoo! Yay! OMG!

WZTV FOX 17 :: Newsroom - Top Stories - ER Uses Essential Oils to Relieve Staff Stress

2011-06-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

WZTV FOX 17 :: Newsroom - Top Stories - ER Uses Essential Oils to Relieve Staff Stress

My Newest Grandson!!!!

2011-05-26T20:49:00.000-07:00

Amber and Aaron blogged a few pictures of Kay Tobias Decker. This certainly made my day!!!!

Great Big Accomplishment

2011-05-22T21:56:00.000-07:00

Andi and I were able to view Chris' Master's Project
when it was being presented last month at Trolley Square.
It was a quick event, yet very fun and interesting for me.
So much creativeness, art, design, knowledge,
graphics, guidelines, and long days and all-nighters
went into each of the Master Presentations.
I was impressed with most of them.
Bet you can guess which one I loved best!

What Am I?

2011-05-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

Yup- I like taking pictures of common things.

What is this a photo of?

Mom's Day Photo's Are Scrapped!

2011-05-10T11:24:00.000-07:00

The family photos that I received on Sunday

are already on 12 x 12 paper and behind glass.

Thank you Katy and Liz for giving me

such cute photos to play with.

And a special thanks to Archiver's

for having a page 'make & take' on Saturday

so one of the pages was mostly done.

I love that!!

The Dress Chosen

2011-05-02T22:51:00.000-07:00

Amanda found a gorgeous dress in a 'color'!

Spring is pretending to arrive,

the recent snow has melted,

but the temperature is like a late winter chill.

My beautiful daughter!

The sandals Amber wore on her wedding day.

Perfect Prom attire.

Corban and Amanda have been friends since kindergarten.
Corban and his family were so sweet
to allow Amanda a little girl fantasy . . .
To have her date glimpse her at the beginning of a date
looking up at her from the bottom of a staircase.
Very princess and fairytale like.

The Grand Entrance

2011-05-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

He's coming up the walk!

There is a magic which happens
when you combine a beautiful girl,
a glamorous dress,
and a curved staircase.

Such a magical way to begin the evening.
Enchantment is sure to occur.

The happy couple ready to create a memorable night.

Pinning on the Boutonniere

2011-05-02T22:33:00.000-07:00

Notice the jewel in Amanda's hair-

It is from the collection of jewelry from Granny.
Making sure Adam is safe from the sharp pin.

"Oh, they match."

So beautiful!

A nice way to begin the date.

P.S. Better view of the vintage jewels.

Prom 2011

2011-05-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

Adam and Amanda ready to party the evening away!
Thanks to Trish for the gorgeous up-do.

Soccer With Tanner

2011-04-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

Most recent photo taken on my camera.

Isn't he A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E ?!!!!

The Dress Not Worn

2011-04-17T23:27:00.000-07:00

Even though we have several very beautiful dresses in the downstairs closet, Amanda is in search of a gown to wear to this years prom. Some unwritten rule dictates that a dress can not go to the same building, or event on the same girl more than once. One of the dresses in the closet has not yet been worn by Amanda, but there is a slight problem with it. The dress has already been on a date with the gentleman who has asked Amanda to this years prom. How often does that happen?

The beautiful gown Amanda is modeling belongs to friend who has offered to allow Amanda to wear it to the dance. This is a dress both Amanda and I have been in awe of ever since we saw it on Amanda's friend in last years pictures. Amanda wanted to wear this dress so intensely that she tried to convince herself that it fit even though it didn't. Thus the sash to tighten the waist and other hidden attempts at creating a better fit. The color and beading details are amazing. Certainly a dress made for a princess to wear to a very special event. Before we returned the gown to the owner we had to take a few pictures to keep the memories of this perfect dress alive in our hearts forever. Well, at least until the next 'most gorgeous' dress comes along.

The One That Shattered

2011-04-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

Sugar eggs are a fragile thing. My cute niece, Ashley was doing such an awesome job putting decorations in her egg- then I helped put the two sides together. Aack! The two sides shattered in my hands. Over the next days I glued (royal icing) the shell back piece by piece. The decoration on the outside is to cover/hide all the repaired areas. Eggs are like people- don't give up on them even when you think they are broken beyond repair.

Orem High Choir Tour 2011 - Seattle Washington

2011-04-03T23:57:00.000-07:00

Seattle Skyline

Butterfly Museum at the Pacific Science Center

In Idaho on the bus ride to Seattle.

This choir tour is merely the first

of two Washington's Amanda will visit this year.

Amanda is having a great time in Washington State

with Orem High's Choir.

I would hate to spoil her fun by telling any of the details.

She arrives home late tomorrow-

we will just have to wait to hear from her.

Addison's Baby Shower

2011-03-28T21:10:00.001-07:00

Hugs from one of the guys!

"But I don't want to share!" The ever calm daddy.

I found a beautiful smile among the party streamers.

Amryn and Jayden- Mom and daughter

Addison Marie Scott

was born 1-24-11

American Fork, Utah

at 3:04 a.m.

8 lbs. 2 oz., 20"

(yes, I will post pictures . . . eventually)

A Bit O' Green

2011-03-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

On a whim I put together this St. Patty's Egg.

I love green and I was very

excited to use this 'perfect' egg shell.

Some of the St. Patrick icing decorations

were acquired in years past,

but when a few shamrocks were among

the awesome stash acquired this year

I decided it would be very appropriate

to create an egg to display next March 17th.

Love You Mom

2011-03-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

Here's the gal I get my artistic genes from.

She claims she isn't creative or artistic.

Ya, right.

Beautiful color choices.

My mom loves flowers and I was hoping

she would find a way to use a

few of these large pink roses.

Considering I have a ten years supply of them.

The roses that is.

The First Sugar Eggs Of The Season

2011-03-24T15:12:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the adorable scene Debbie created with

that adorable bunny collecting carrots in a wheelbarrow.

I am so excited to make Sugar Eggs this year! We kinda skipped doing them last year. There were other more important and time involved things to do like have a wedding and move. This year I am prepared! I have over THIRTY sugar egg shells molded, set and ready to decorate.

My sweet friend, Debbie was the first to decorate an egg with me this year. She did an A-W-E-S-O-M-E job at creating a beautiful masterpiece! Her daughter, Rachael came over after school and made a fun egg using a multi-colored shell. Thanks girls for joining me in one of my favorite spring activities!

Past Nap Time

2011-03-24T15:10:00.000-07:00

The day Tanner was born

his brothers got up really early

to play at Grandma's house.

They hadn't realized how tired they were until

they got in the car to go with their dad

to see their new baby brother.

What's Amanda's excuse?

After school nap time. :)

Third Congressional First Place Winner 2011

2011-03-24T15:08:00.000-07:00

Amanda's art was chosen to be displayed

in the annual Springville Student Art Show.

That honor alone is something to be pleased with.

And then to receive an award

was exhilarating, to say the least!

And I am just the mom here.

As part of the experience of receiving an award

Amanda had a fun day going to the State Capital

with other award winning students to meet the Governor.

It was there that the students saw the Springville Art Catalog

for the very first time,

. . . and there was Amanda's painting printed on

the cover of EVERY one of those catalogs!

When we first heard the awesome news that

Amanda had won 1st place in the Third Congressional District

the big question was, "What does that mean?"

Amanda's high school art teacher

said it meant Amanda was going to Washington D.C.

We didn't wish to blab the news till we knew for sure

if this were true. IT IS TRUE!!!!

Southwest Airlines provides two round trip tickets.

Amanda does NOT have the tickets yet-

but she has met with a representative from Southwest Airlines.

The winnings DO NOT include the stay or transportation

so Amanda had better choose Moi to go with her.

Someone has to pay for those significant extras.

Amanda also received an American Flag

which has 'certifiably' flown at the United States Capital.

She was also presented with a NASA pen.

This isn't just any kind of pen- it can write in space,

under water, and in extreme temperatures.

That will come in very handy the next time she is at the north pole,

cooking underwater and she thinks of writing a thank you note

to congressman Chaffetz and his staff for choosing her artwork.

Baby Boy Huntsman

2011-03-15T21:12:00.000-07:00

Love those Barksdale lips.

Born this morning at 9:45 a.m.

7 pounds, 11 oz. 19 inches.

Only took 2 hours 15 minutes to get here-

(not counting the nine months)

When I met this guy for the first time

he was in a much better mood than this.

He was looking around, cooing,

and making sucking noises.

Look at this POUT!

What a talent!
Congratulations Chris and Liz!

'My Savior' Prints For Sale

2011-03-11T23:22:00.001-08:00

In a few weeks,

Amanda will be traveling to Seattle with the

OHS A Capella choir for tour.

Amanda has decided to attend SUU

in Cedar City beginning Fall 2011.

Amanda is still selling prints of her

oil painting titled, MY SAVIOR.

All proceeds go towards her

never ending education expenses.

We have printed bookmarks

which shows a small version of this painting

and includes a spiritual message in Amanda's own words.

They make for a memorable visiting teaching gift-

or token of love and appreciation.

To order call

801-221-9563

5 x 7 $6.00

8 x 10 $12.00

11 x 14 $20.00

12 x 16 $28.00

bookmarks .75 each

Thanks for your continued love and encouragement!

Bravissimo!

2011-03-11T23:04:00.000-08:00

Doesn't everyone deserve a Daily Dose Of Happy? Check out the new site created by the wonderful people at Making Memories. aDailyDoseOfHappy.com
The happiness will be fueled by the wonderfully extraordinary people like you and me. :)

Christmas Visitor

2011-03-11T10:28:00.000-08:00

We do not have a cat.

This kitty came to visit us several times.

As most cats do- this feline enjoyed

basking in the glow of the Christmas tree lights.

Obsessed?

2011-03-11T10:26:00.000-08:00

How many peacocks sacrificed their plumage for this dress?

I have no idea- but the result is awesome and amazing.

I bet it is prettier in real life.

Deeds Dog

2011-03-07T10:44:00.000-08:00

There is now new product available to purchase to help with the fundraising for Deed and his dog. I couldn't get the link to work (user malfunction), but you can find out more by clicking A DOG 4 DEEDS from the list of blogs we like to check in on. The list is there to the right. ----->

What I Love About Spring

2011-03-05T14:34:00.000-08:00

I love the arrival of the birds back from their winter vacation, the healthy green of fresh grass, the vibrant colors of new blossoms, and the smile which always appears once I feel the touch of warm rays of the sun on my face.

Maggie- Sooooooo Cute!

2011-02-28T14:16:00.000-08:00

Such a beautiful girl!

She gets prettier every time I see her.

I can tell that Amanda took this photograph,

because of the direction I had to

flip the picture from the photo file.

I hold the camera in the same direction

every time I take a side shot.

My girls holds the camera in the opposite direction.
So in photo manager all my pics

which are on it's side are flipped to the left,

Amanda's and Andi's to the right. Just an odd fact.

So I thought of my darling girls and smiled. :)

Love them!!!

Waiting To Meet The Governor

2011-02-23T22:23:00.000-08:00

Cell phone cameras come in real handy

when you are a person standing in the Gold Room

waiting to meet the Governor of Utah

and you suddenly have the urge to tell someone about it.

Can you spot Amanda?

A Rose A Day

2011-02-18T10:19:00.000-08:00

On Friday Amanda received a pink rose

from an admirer during school.

It brightened her day

and kept a smile on her face for hours.

Saturday night, as the car sat in the parking lot

of Mountain View High School

during the choir concert,

words and hearts were painted on the car windows

and two perfect white roses were

set gracefully on the dash.

Late at night and intoxicated by the beauty
and rarity of such a gift.

All of the windows were decorated.
So much fun!

Monday, after school this . . .

. . . showed up on our door step.

Sean took Amanda to The Cocoa Bean to spoil

her with cupcakes.

Take notes guys-

The simplest things can melt a girls heart.

Bandana Guy- A Favorite Photo

2011-02-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

I have favorite pictures located all over the place. Some are on this computer, some on the other computer, others are on one of two external storage things, more are stored with Shutterfly, a few thousand are stored on Cd's, some are printed and scrap booked. Some just printed.

And a few are found on other peoples blogs. Like this one!

And NOW it is on MY BLOG!!!!!

A Bunch of Monk Keys

2011-02-11T11:19:00.000-08:00

For Halloween last year

Aaron was a Monk, Amber was keys,

and little Thomas was the monkey!

I miss these guys!

So Adorable!

Caden's Blessing Day

2011-02-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

Michael with Great Grandpa Coombs.

Grandpas are for hugs and kisses,
and lots of teasing and tickles.

Michael with Grandpa Maxwell.

Katy's sister playing with baby Caden.

Caden in his blessing clothes

snuggling with Great Grandma.

Dad and his little guys.

It is so much fun to see these handsome men.

So much help and input from Michael and Braxton!

Can Grandpa see what he is doing?

Big smiles from

Michael and Great Grandpa Coombs.

Close ups of Caden.

Showing off!

Chad received his High School Yearbooks

as a gift from his darling wife, Katy.

You can see a corner of one of the books

peeking out from behind Caden.

Father and Son

Gorgeous Mom!

Rough-housing with uncle Derek.

Michael Michael.

Smiles from Caden.

Robert's Birthday Party 2010

2011-02-01T23:01:00.001-08:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Testimonies

2011-02-01T22:56:00.000-08:00

Our testimonies are as fragile as moonbeams. (Quoted from Harold B. Lee, I believe). A person must live the gospel every single day. We must constantly work at keeping our testimonies bright and shiny.

I Treasure You

2011-01-11T23:00:00.000-08:00

The gentleman pictured above is Bruce's dad,

Thomas Richard Decker.

Amanda sketched this charcoal from

a black and white photograph of her grandpa.

The writing on the back of the photograph

indicates Thomas was age 12 at the time.

The charcoal is Amanda's Christmas gift to her dad.

I took a picture of the original charcoal

and printed a copy for this scrapbook page.

I had most of today to PLAY!

I have been looking forward to this day

for about three months now.

I chose to play with pretty paper, scissors,

paint, ribbons, glittery stuff, and photographs.

I like 'play days'.

There Really Is A Good Reason

2011-01-10T21:16:00.000-08:00

If you had received these adorable ornaments as a Christmas gift you would want to leave your tree up a little bit longer, wouldn't you? So I took the tree down and all the other Christmas decorations today. Everything is boxed up . . .well . . . except a few wooden blocks which I forgot I had set on a bookcase. I guess they will just have to sit there a few days more.
Shucky darn, They will sit there out in the open and I will have to look at them everyday until someone finds the time to put them away for next December.
P.S. Just another amazing thing made by Liz. :)

A Few Fun Pages Created By LIz

2011-01-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

My very beautiful and talented daughter-in-law, Liz, creates the best super cute and fun scrapbook pages using on-line digital format. I have only recently figured out how to post copies of them onto my blog. (I feel so accomplished.) Now I just need to figure out the simplest way to get these printed on 12 x 12 paper so I can add them to my scrapbooks. Then I will feel VERY accomplished. Thanks Liz for sharing moments of your life, even the tough ones, like those of scopes and being sick. P.S. My favorite page is the hot air balloons. I LOVE the photo angle of Tyler watching the balloons.

My other favorite is that adorable frowny face you captured on Chris. They are ALL my favorites!!!!

A Wish Come True

2011-01-02T23:12:00.000-08:00

Aurelia's birthday wish for 2010

was to have as many of her siblings and family

as possible to attend a temple session together

in the Manti Temple.

Knowing this would not likely happen on it's own

I set a date and invited family to attend.

Saturday September 9th a small group of us

were privileged to perform baptisms and receive

temple endowments for deceased persons in the Manti Temple.

A kind gentleman took this picture (above)

of Amanda and I after Amanda took a photo

of his group on his camera for him.

Melanie, Aurelia, Mom, Nani, and myself

after the session and baptisms.

It was a treat to get together with a few of my extended
family to create Aurelia's birthday wish.
Greg, Bradley, Nani, Mom, Celestia, Aurelia, Ben,
Jessica, Melanie, Amanda, Karen (me), Sarah.

The youth in our group.

Amanda, Jessica, Bradley

Photo shoot while we wait for the rest of our group to join
us after we completed proxy baptisms.
An endowment session takes more time than baptisms.

The Manti temple is built on the side of a hill.

This door is normally not used.
Except, as in this case, as a prop for picture taking.

On the drive to Manti

we drove past a Llama farm.

We didn't have time to stop on the way there,

but the occupants of my car allowed me five minutes

to indulge in getting closer to the animals

and take a FEW pics on the way home.

Obviously the 'black sheep' of this group.

Is your Momma a Llama?
Mines not.

Architectural Details of a Magnificant Castle in Manti, Utah

2011-01-02T23:03:00.000-08:00

I LOVE the details in the construction

of the Manti Temple in Manti, Utah.

My parents were married here in 1955.

Mt. Timp

2010-12-30T23:33:00.001-08:00

Just a reminder of of what the mountain looks like without fog and snow.

Christmas Eve Sledding 2010

2010-12-27T12:02:00.000-08:00

I will be deleting this post eventually. I have yet to figure out how to make the photos post in the order I want them to be. Here is a peek at what we did on Christmas eve. The snow was not very deep, but the fun was!

View The Best Christmas Lights Ever

2010-12-19T23:56:00.000-08:00

Go to holdman.com to view videos of award winning synchronized home Christmas lights. My brother Paul helped set the lights this year. They are impressive, awesome, beautiful, and amazing!

My Savior

2010-12-14T20:09:00.001-08:00

Picture In Portrait 5x7 folded card

Unique party invitations and announcements by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

A Dog For Deeds

2010-12-11T23:14:00.000-08:00

Deeds is a little boy with autism and other special needs. Deeds recently qualified to have a special trained dog to be his buddy. The dog would help keep on eye on Deeds and help him in his daily activities and improvement. You can read more about Deeds and his dog buddy at dog4deeds.wordpress.com. Deeds family needs to raise $13,000 for the initial expenses of getting this amazing dog for Deeds. Through the generous donations of many, many people the family is half way to their goal. Please donate if you can, but in the very least please find a way to share his story. Thank you!

Happy Birthday Surprises To Me

2010-12-08T16:40:00.001-08:00

Amanda is very clever. And thoughtful.

To give me this cute surprise

she had to be prepared and think ahead.

The morning of my recent birthday

I was pleasantly surprised

to find this adorable message in the car

as I was dashing off to work.

What a perfect way to begin a day!

Even Amanda's 'stick figures'

are more artistic than the ordinary. :)

It's Official- Amanda is now PERFECT.

2010-12-02T10:51:00.001-08:00

When Amanda was young she had her front baby teeth knocked out. When her new teeth were coming in she was able to wear braces to help the new ones grow in properly. We could not afford a retainer at that time so her teeth were never perfect again. As Amanda grew up and asked for braces; as parents our response was that Amanda is so beautiful and talented that if she had straight teeth she would be deemed 'perfect' and perfect people are translated. If that were to transpire we would miss her very much. Thus we just couldn't allow braces for her. That reasoning did not sway Amanda one bit. She suspected the real reason was we just didn't want to pay for them. Want. Afford. How similar are those two words? A year and a month ago arrangements were finally made for Amanda to have braces. She cried out of pure joy when she was told the news. She never once complained of the discomfort or any of the hassles of wearing braces. To Amanda this was her biggest dream come true.

Yesterday the braces came off. Amanda is now PERFECT in every way. Sure hope she hangs on to some imperfection so she is not translated yet. We sure would miss her TONS!

Morning Hair

2010-12-02T10:17:00.000-08:00

As depicted in the above photos I am one of those people who HAS to wash my hair and take a shower each and every day. I know of many women (Liz and Amanda come immediately to mind) who look radiant and beautiful even on the days they claim they haven't done anything except thrown on clothes to be ready for the day.
I am a firm believer everyone has a responsibility to do what they can to make this world a prettier place, which includes taking time to care for themselves and making themselves beautiful everyday. I also believe the time spent should be realistic, as we do not want to become vain. I once heard a smart woman say, "Do what you can- then forget yourself and think of others". IF you ever chance to see me in my morning hair please pretend you don't recognize me. It will make me believe the time I do spend each morning getting 'ready' is time well spent.

An American Tradition

2010-11-29T20:58:00.000-08:00

Twenty-Seven people converged on the Scott home one the fourth Thursday of the Eleventh month for an annual American eating tradition. Somehow we over calculated on the amount of edibles needed for this event. Possibly the miscalculation involved the fact that over half of these people were age seven or younger. Who would have thought they wouldn't eat their weight in food? Everyone was contentedly full, so much that the pies were reserved for another day.
The detail which made this chaotic event so important is the fact that fourteen of my fifteen grandchildren were all under one roof. The one grandchild missing celebrated Turkey day about 18 hours previous due to the side of the world he is on at this time.

Missing from this pic: Chad, Jim, Becky, Aaron, Amber, and Thomas. They were thought of and greatly missed. I am VERY grateful to be surrounded by so many of my family- even if it was only for a day.

Andi's Blessing Day- 1990

2010-11-21T21:10:00.001-08:00

So this picture is brought to you via a scan. Way before digital cameras were in use there was stuff called film. It was manually put in a camera to portray images on a film to be developed into photographs at a later date. Usually a person took their role of film contained in a metal cylinder encased in a dark plastic canister to a camera establishment to pay them money to have their professionals develop the pictures. You had to decide beforehand if you wanted singles or duplicates. Days later you would return to said establishment and pay a small fortune for pictures you may or may not want depending on how still your subjects had stood at the last event you attended. A person didn't dare throw out a questionable picture 'cause it might be important to someone decades later.

The important event was the day Andrea was blessed. This is taken on our front porch just before we headed to church. We lived on Blue Sky in Salem. Oregon. Eldon and Jane drove from Utah to be there. Vickie and Sammi are included in this assortment of kids. Everyone is related to Jim, Chris and Chad. We are all family!

Starting from the center going clockwise: Aaron (squished in the middle), Chris holding Sammi, Jim, Amryn, Rachel, Andi (in Jim's' arms), Chad, Vickie.

Shutterfly(dot)com

2010-11-17T21:41:00.000-08:00

I will let you in on a little known secret . . .
I L-O-V-E Shutterfly!
Those of you who really know me know that :
1- I take tons of photos.
2- I have tons of grand kids.
3- I take tons of pics of my grand kids.
4- I love to scrapbook and create photo books.
5- I frame pictures and display them in my house.
6- I love personalized photo calendars.
7- I take pictures of my daughter's art.
8- I take pictures of band kids and color guard competitions.
9- I take pictures of the sky, the clouds, light, color . . .etc.
10- I did my research to find the best company to order photo products through, and I have been pleased with their service ever since.

This year I am doing my Christmas cards through Shutterfly, (the best company to order photo products through. Refer to #10 above).
I love the design of the card I chose since I am able to share several pictures of my family plus there is room to brag a little bit. (refer to previous post to view the card I made on Shutterfly). I am so excited to get these adorable cards sent out to my friends and family.
I made a cute little 5 x 7 folded card for two of my grandsons with pictures of them on the front of the card. Their faces are on round Christmas tree ornaments. I just ordered that one this evening. I can hardly wait to see their reaction when I give their unique card to them.
You don't have to take my word only, (but why wouldn't you?) you can find Shutterfly cards on-line by clicking on one of these links. http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/photo-christmas-cards
For those of you who are REALLY ambitious here is a link to get started on your Valentine cards. http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/valentines-day-cards-and-stationery
I believe in making this world a better place one beautiful picture at a time. :)
Bloggers get 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly… sign up: http://bit.ly/sfly2010

Oki Diner In Kuaui, Hawaii

2010-11-17T21:26:00.001-08:00

Blurred Edge 5x7 folded card

Unique party invitations and greeting cards by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Wishes of Joy and Magic

2010-11-17T21:20:00.001-08:00

Joy Sage Story Christmas 5x7 folded card

Make a statement with custom Christmas cards at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

My Savior

2010-11-15T09:18:00.001-08:00

My Savior

Oil painting by

Amanda Joelle Decker

Since Amanda is way too busy to have a time clock job, her mom has decided to peddle her paintings. Much to Amanda's embarrassment. Amanda never looks on our family blog so it will be months before she even gets a clue what I have done. Last August, the week before school began, Amanda had the opportunity to study for 3 hours a day for five days with LDS artist Jared Barnes. Jared encouraged Amanda to find her own style of painting. This oil painting of Christ is a step towards that. Here Amanda is using color to create a painting which is uniquely hers. The original is displayed in our home and the vision of it speaks softly to my heart. I am melted by His loving gaze as His eyes penetrate my soul. I am reminded to follow Him.
By purchasing prints of Amanda's artwork you would be helping her further her artistic education and training. Amanda wants to attend BYU in the fall of 2011. She will be paying for that education through scholarships (hopefully) and the sales of her artwork. We have decided to start with offering prints of her piece entitled . . .

MY SAVIOR.

Prices

5 x 7 $6.00

8 x 10 $12.00

11 x 14 $20.00

12 x16 $28.00

Please contact me to place your order. Thank you very much! Love Karen

Nelson's Grove

2010-11-14T18:53:00.000-08:00

If you look closely and have a great imagination you can see the duck and turtle sitting on some reed hiding in the brush.
For a windy day and a cell phone camera these aren't so bad. NOT.
The colors on these fowl are beautiful. Guess you will have to go there and find out for yourself, cause the pic did not capture the hues and vividness.

So I had NO IDEA there was such a beautiful park so close to home. I had heard mention of "Nelson's Grove". But not enough to spark enough interest to find where it was. Now I know- GO if you get the chance. Make up a reason to take the grand kids here. They will L-O-V-E it!

Next visit will include a picnic blanket, food for the people, bread for the ducks, a camera, and relatives under the age of seven.

My Dad, Einstein

2010-11-14T18:39:00.001-08:00

For Halloween I suggested to my dad that he dress up- as Einstein. He has always had the IQ for that role. Now he has the hair.

One day I spent my lunch break going for a walk with Dad and Olivia. Dad was eager to get out of the house for a while. It is such a blessing for my dad that mom got this motorized chair when she was so sick this time last year. (she never used it) Dad was ready to go before I drove up to his house.
I didn't get to eat much for lunch- but who needs food when you have sunshine and family?

Walnuts and a Puddle

2010-11-04T09:16:00.000-07:00

I drive by our old house often since my parents live on the same street. On one such drive-by I was reminded of yet another thing I will not miss from that house. The Black walnut trees lining the front property are gorgeous in the fall as their leaves change from a young green to a very vibrant yellow. The sight of those gorgeous trees always brought a warm smile to my face. It was the plop, plop of nuts hitting the tops of vehicles or the hard thumps as the nuts hit the driveway which were tiresome. Just walking across the lawn took extra care as a foot trying to balance on one of those nuisance nuts could sprain an ankle of at the least make exasperating words escape a persons lips.
Another silly memory is of the day MANY years ago, where we had to repair a sunken driveway. Part of the driveway is built over an irrigation ditch. One day, after years of being a good driveway, the pressure of A VERY LARGE and HEAVY piece of construction equipment used by the city was too much for our old fragile driveway to withstand. For a short time we had a marvelously dangerous hole in our driveway. This specific memory is of the day the cement was poured and two adult men were in the front yard arguing on how to level the wet cement as to prevent water from accumulating on the surface when bad weather would arrive. Neither of them would listen to me or my idea. I could see that what they were planning was not the solution to this pending problem. My experience with the male species is that it is usually more important to 'just get it done' than it is to get it done correctly. My suggestion was completely overlooked. From that day forward whenever it rained, snowed or anything of that like, I was reminded of that day and that conversation and how two men would not, could not put a bit more thought and care in the task at hand. Yes- EVERY time I was out sloshing water and slush from that spot in the driveway I was reminded of how bull-headed some men can be.
So as I drive by this home with walnuts in a pool of water in the driveway, I smile and am glad it does not belong to me.
Life really is grand. :)

Observance = Cleverness = 'Ah ha'

2010-11-01T11:42:00.000-07:00

Decades ago I had a teacher who passed out a quiz to each of the students telling us it was to test our ability to follow instruction. At the top of the page were the instructions to read through the test before beginning. One of the first items said to stand up and twirl three times. Another required the test taker to call out their favorite color. You get the idea. It was a noisy quiz. At the bottom of the page it said something like this: Now that you have read through this quiz sign your name here and turn this paper into the instructor. I was one of the few who completed this task correctly. What did I do differently than the other students?

I Love Vintage Stuff

2010-10-25T21:52:00.000-07:00

. . . including my husband. Found this pic (on Bruce's desktop) taken in 1955. My bet this is his mom's mom who is holding him. Most likely taken in or around Elma, Washington.
How adorable. Love this guy!

I Looked Out My Window

2010-10-13T22:30:00.000-07:00

Two of my bird feeders are in view from the kitchen window. Don't get any ideas in your head that I spend any significant amount of time in the kitchen- cause I don't. For the rare times I do venture in the kitchen I generally get a peek at a few cute birds.

Sometimes they peek at me.

Sometimes this bush jiggles
due to the quantity of birdies hiding there.

And sometimes I take pictures even though

the sky is cloudy and a screen is between me and my subject.

Repentance Requires Forgiveness

2010-10-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

I would like to share a few of the notes I recorded during Relief Society lesson this morning. The topic of Repentance was presented by Liz Lambert, a new gal in our ward- yup even newer than me.
What I recorded in my spiritual journal were comments shared by sisters in the class. One of these days I will actually know the names of each of these gals. Hopefully that doesn't take me fifteen years cause I'm not sure all of these girls have that many years left. I love these ladies because with all their wisdom and life experience comes the ability to laugh at life itself. Their testimonies of Christ and their faith in the gospel they strive to live each day shows in their faces and in the endless service and love they give.
Here is a summary (in my words) of bits of knowledge and testimony shared during RS meeting today.
- The commandment to forgive is one commandment which the promised blessing comes very quickly. The peace comes completely and quickly to the one who truly forgives in their heart. (I have experienced this one many times for myself.)
- Having a constant state of forgiveness makes it so others have no power over you. (think of the feelings you harbor or the poor choices you have made when you have allowed someone's wrong towards you overcome your thoughts.)
- Christ has already paid the price for that sin against you- He asks that YOU forgive.
- Not forgiving yourself is a tool Satan uses against us in attempting to make us miserable like unto himself.
- Forgiveness equals Freedom

The Water Hole

2010-09-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

Kids, Sunlight and Water

are perfect ingredients for cute pictures.

Braxton's Birthday in the Park

2010-09-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

This is the guy turning four.

The reason for the cake and presents.

Michael hung on to this football

for quite some time.

Coming back for seconds and thirds.

Four Generation Photo

2010-09-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

Is it too much to ask for all eyes to be on the photographer?

Smaller groups are easier to photograph.
Wish we had one more person in this pic. Where's Bruce?

Even with it's imperfections I feel privileged to have this picture.

Chad and Katy came from Cedar City to provide a fun way

for family to celebrate Braxton's fourth birthday.

Little Caden had celebrated his 'birth' day just days previous.

(refer to previous publication)
Thanks to all who made this rare photo moment possible!

The Numbers

2010-09-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

I am the third child of fifteen. Chad is my third born. He and his cute wife now have three sons. I kinda like the number 3.
I verified the count- my parents now have 25 great grandchildren. Tish has two grand kids, Aurelia has eight, I have fifteen. (hmm, there's that number 15 again).

Caden James Huntsman

2010-09-14T22:03:00.000-07:00

This cute guy was born this evening shortly after 8 pm. He is the third son of my third son. He was born in Cedar City, Utah on this day, September 14, 2010. He is 8 lbs. 5 oz. and 20 inches long. He has grandparents in Utah County anxious to see him and hold him. Congratulations Chad and Katy!

What was Lost is now Found

2010-09-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

Orem High School Marching Band

Provo Freedom Festival Parade

July 4Th 2006

For several years now I have been wondering where I had put a whole parades worth of OHS marching band pictures. I had actually given up thinking that I had somehow mistakenly deleted them forever. They were found this evening as I was searching for a couple of photos of sugar eggs. Thank heaven for sugar eggs!

As a reminder to myself these files are found on the 'f'' drive under what is this\july4th\actual parade only :) And of course these five photos are not even a hundreth of what was found. YAY!

Marching Band Tour

2010-09-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

Ran across this pic of a spider

I attempted to take while on tour

with OHS Marching Band.

This was a year Andi was in color Guard

and the band went to California

where Van Guard is held.

This guy was nestled in a web

he had spun between two trees.

I bet he was predicting 'fly by' bugs.

Bruce and Karen in South Carolina

2010-09-02T19:45:00.001-07:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Derek's Family

2010-08-31T21:58:00.000-07:00

We were able to meet more of Derek's sisters on Andi and Derek's wedding day. The sun was bright and intense, but we wanted photos before the reception began. You can still tell how beautiful each girl is despite the need to squint. (my apologies). Andi and Derek recently took a vacation with this side of his family. Andi had a G-R-E-A-T time with her new sisters! I am sure she will post pics on her blog soon.

Beauty of Wyoming

2010-08-27T23:04:00.001-07:00

The clouds kept me in constant aah.

Wind energy.

Pretty good for driving and

shooting pics at the same time.

When you are the only person

who is in the car

sometimes you have to take

the pics on your own.

I was surprised at what I was

able to shoot one handed.

So many trains in Wyoming.

I did slow down a bit for this shot.

I love the rock formations.

So much history and story

with each layer of sediment

and with every wave and line.

Above: Pulled off the road for this one.

B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L

I Believe in Christ

2010-08-22T21:51:00.000-07:00

This original oil done by my T-A-L-E-N-T-E-D
little girl is displayed in my home

as a visual display of our belief in Christ

and a reminder of the beauty which is within us all.

Wow! What a talent!

2010-08-16T22:18:00.000-07:00

Amanda has the A-M-A-Z-I-N-G opportunity to study with a professional artist for a week. Today was her first session with him. He demonstrated a new technique for her to try. The top sketch is what she did. The bottom is his. My Grandpa Rigby and Uncle Neal (both artists themselves) are watching from heaven doing a little dance. Most likely the same dance I am doing right here.

Pages by Becky

2010-08-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

Becky and Jim have been staying at our home for the past few days. Jim had an appointment at the Moran Eye Center in Salt Lake City to see what can be done about the scar tissue growing over his eye. (He will be back in another month for the surgery.) So Becky and I got a few days to play...so we chose scrapbooking! And stocking up on scrapbooking stuff!

These are some of Becky's pages I had scanned to add to my albums.

Anyone have suggestions on where to get amazing and amazingly cheap 12 x 12 prints made of these?

Aqua Play with the Boys

2010-08-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

I FINALLY got to play with Tyler and Blake.

I was very excited to play with the Aqua Play toy.

I had found a place on line where I could order the parts I wanted

rather than having to buy a whole new set.

The parts had arrived and I needed some kids to play with me.

Lucky for my these guys were willing to try out the aqua toy.

This is the coolest toy!

Notice that mischievous look on Blake's face?

He suddenly thought of something else he could do.

He forgot all about playing with the water toy-

and commenced hitting a shrub with the water pump.

Whatever 'floats his boat'.

Silly boy!

Thanks Blake and Tyler for playing with me!

You made my day!

Sunday Evening Walk

2010-08-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

Two Sundays ago Bruce, Amanda,

the camera and I took a stroll around the block.

It was the call of the sunset

which enticed us out the door.

I loved the chromatic grey blue purples

of the mountains in the last light of the day. My FAVORITE color of green.

The suns rays entwining
through the purple leaves of the trees.

The sun visiting in a neighbors home.

The sky full of imagination and dreams.

Donny with 'Donny'

2010-08-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

What fun!

When Donny saw the painting of himself

for the first time

he was wearing the same shirt

as the one from the day the original

photograph was taken.

Photos from the Past Few Weeks

2010-08-01T18:32:00.000-07:00

One of the little visitors to our back patio.

Snow White and Superman had foster parents

2010-07-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

The back of Amryn and Jason's van.

Ever wonder what it is like to have

an infant seat, two car seats,

and three boosters all in one vehicle?

Lambert Family Annual Swim Party

2010-07-05T18:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Rob & Jenn

the Lambert's get to celebrate

the 4Th of July

each year playing together in a pool

and enjoying a great BBQ.

Great times are had playing with

siblings and cousins.
Abbie Poulson and Bradley Bertola.

Jacob and Kerrie Lambert

Tyler had a great time squirting people.

His mom was certainly one of the most tolerable.

Blake loved exploring more than being in the water.

Amanda did glitter toes for Andi.

So pretty.

Danial King was visiting

with his Pumpa and Grandma Poulson.

Blake did not like the water at first-

he especially did not like his suit.

Liz getting Tyler and Grandma back.

Proof that Blake did get in the water.

This photographer was quick to get this shot-

cause Blake did not last long in the water.

Liz is so adorable!
I am soooo glad she came and brought

Tyler and Blake with her.

That made the day great for me. :)

Of course there was food!

Robert is the official cook for this annual party.

Katie Larsson is always so adorable.

Stephen Rust should not have made this face

while someone with a camera was standing near.

Jacob Lambert practiced his walking skills.

. . . and his being cute skills.

A Beautiful Visitor

2010-07-05T08:23:00.000-07:00

This guy visits often at our home.

This is a birdhouse in view from our kitchen window.Handsome fellow, isn't he?

Backstreets BACK!

2010-06-25T09:44:00.000-07:00

Zoe and I at Energy Solutions livin' our Childhood Dream
I drove to Salt Lake and no one died! YAY!

Anxiously waiting for what we came for. BSB's Dj was playin some great dancing music. Zoe and I had a blast mimiking the weird dancer girls behind the big screen.

Do you see Aunt Michelle?! I sure did!
I saw lots of people I know there. The Arena was Full!

Full of adult women who were teenagers

when the BSB were popular! HA love it!

After a Whole lot of waiting we saw the Backstreet Boys right before our very eyes!
UNBELIEVEABLE!!! Oh and they danced too! YES! haha. I Loved when they sang their old songs! I was obsessed between ages 7-9. Brian will always be my Favorite!! Kevin was the only one not returning to the BSB after 11 years.