Why I'm Wierder Than Usual at Christmas Time!

As for those of you who know me well, know that I am a little...what's the word....emotional, moved to tears easily, just plain crazy at times. Particularly at this time of year, I find myself weeping uncontrolable for the most benign reasons. Examples:

A few days ago, I tried to call Tiffany, I dialed the wrong number and the lady on the other end said..."You're just fine. Have a great day!"

Every moment I am home, I have to listen to one of those cheesy Christmas movies from the Hallmark Channel. I don't have time to sit and watch them, but I have to have them as background music to this crazy life of mine.

In my car, starting the day after Halloween, only Christmas music is played. I cry everytime I hear "Ava Maria" or "O Holy Night"

A genuine smile from a stranger or my father!

A grandchild running into my arms the moment we see each other.

Christmas lights on my house when there are no bulbs burned out!

Driving away from the Post Office after I have mailed my Christmas cards!!!!

The smell of Christmas trees when I walk into the Grocery Store!

Unexpected company from dear friends or our children!

Unplanned activites! ex: Dickens Christmas Festival with my granddaughters in St. George

Planned activities that were better than you could of imagined! ex: "The Forgotten Carols Christmas Concert" with Tiffany, Jessica and Kourtney

The FOOD!! What a treat to come home and find a plate of some yummy goodness for me to devour!

Participating in the Ward Choir at Christmas time. Even though I have no real musical talent to speak of....I just love being surrounded by people who do, and singing those beautiful words. Sometimes, I can't get through them.

Watching my children watching their children performing at their recitals.

Witnessing pure excitement and joy over a gift given from my family.

Jess, Sabrina, Kourtney and Whitley do St. George!!

So, we have been promising our oldest five grandkids a special trip to St. George with their G Dawg and Grandma Kat. It's been postponed twice due to circumstances beyond our control. So the first weekend in December, we finally made the trip. Gunnar had to back out at the last minute due to school commitments and his friend canceled on him. We'll make it up to you Gunn! So Grandpa got some good football watching in while the girls and I took in the sights and shops of St. George. We especially had fun at the Christmas Dicken's Festival. I was able to finally start my Christmas shopping and the girls decided we need to make this a yearly tradition! Pictured above is the girls watching the magic of the new washing machine in action!! Everything we did was pure fun--they made it fun!! I will always cherish the time we had laughing, eating, shopping, swimming, baking, sightseeing and sing Christmas songs!!

Seeing St. George through the eyes of my granddaughers...

St. George Temple

Brigham Young's Winter Home

Granddaughters in St. George!

St. George with 4 Granddaughters!

Sabrina, Kourtney and Whitley possing with the Ghost of Christmas Future! Too scary for Jess!!

A delightful surprise was finding the Christmas Dickens Festival in St. George. The girls and I had a blast!

Jess and Sabrina sharing their texting secrets!

St. George photos shoot

The Peters girls were willing partipants as a did a quick photo shoot!

In & Out Burger- Good News!!

Besides the fact that we are enjoying the delightful, mouthwatering burgers and fries at In & Out Burger in St. George. We received a phone call from Telisa and Clay announcing the fact that their new baby is a BOY!!!! Owen clapped and we all hollered for joy!

Ninja!

My handsome sons with their beautiful wives!!!

Games and Silliness!

Two Thanksgivngs- twice the fun!!

Thanksgiving in St. George!!

This was a first!! On Thanksgiving Day, we stood in a long line and waited to eat at....."Golden Coral"!?! Only place, other than "Chuck a Rama" that was open on Thanksgiving Day. It was actually too fun and the food was pretty good! Especially because I didn't have to cook it! Travis, Kim and family, along with Treavor, Sara and family joined Dennis and myself for a trip to St. George for our first Thanksgiving in our new home in St. George. I was so grateful for their company, the laughs, the shopping, the games and the silliness! It was a quick trip because the BYU/Utah game was on Saturday so we packed a lot of fun in just a few days!!

Thanksgiving 2009- Let the feast begin!

Our second Thanksgiving feast was at our home on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. We seriously didn't even make a dent in the food. It was delicious however!!! We were joined by Todd, Sheryl and my dad. I feel blessed when I am surrounded by my family.

Blood is thicker than sports!!

Proof, that the Cougs and the Utes can get along and even love each other!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Don't Cry Steph!

When I was visiting Lena on Tuesday, she burned me a copy of these photos from a trip Den, Gary and I took to California. I can't remember the year. Steph probably does however! I had been looking all over for them! I love to see a happier, healthier Gary!

Sansom Family Photo Shoot 2009

Sansom Family 2009

Tara wanted her family pictures done at Memory Grove because it was close to Stephen's work. I love the bright colors she choose!! It was stressful for Tara, but fun for me!!!

Thankful Thursday!

It's been awhile since I stopped to take note of the things I'm grateful for. Since October 12th, 2009 my world has been shaken. However, I still have many reasons to be thankful.

1. I'm thankful my brother Gary's physical suffering has ended.

2. I'm thankful Kim invited me to hear her beautiful talk on Sunday about Gratitude!

3. I'm thankful the following day Tiffany invited me over for a day of crafts. Tiff and I made a day of it, lunch, crafts, dinner and Home Depot!

4. I'm thankful our basement flooded because now we're getting a new floor, new painted walls and our basement won't smell like a Motel 6 anymore!

5. I'm thankful for Stephanie's phone call this week-for her genuine concern.

6. I'm thankful for the colors of the leaves all around our neighborhood!!

7. I'm thankful for the support from Tara, Travis and Treavor at Dad's fabulous Eagle Court. And, I 'm thankful for Tiffany, Tristen and Telisa who would have loved to be there if they could.

8. I'm thankful Adam and Tristen had a much needed vacation which they loved! Tristen even snorkeled!

9. I'm thankful for the cooler weather so I can wear my cozy UGG boots!

10. I'm thankful Travis spent four hours at my house fixing my Hard Drives!

11. I'm thankful the Bell family let me take their family picture, invited Den and I over for dinner and spent time visiting with us.

12. I'm thankful for our trip to St. George for Thanksgiving!!!

13. I'm thankful when Tara does my hair so we can just hang out!! What service! She feeds me and let's me cry a little.

14. I'm thankful Telisa is recovering from her Swine Flu! I'm grateful Tara is all recovered and wish all the Van Leeuwen's here in Utah a speedy recovery!

15. I'm thankful I have so many reasons to feel thankful!

Our Crazy Mad Insane Halloween Party 2009

Aragorn and Queen Arwen (or as Treavor suggested "the Principal from 17 Again") Lord of the Rings--Den and Kat

Princess Pyper needed a hug from her handsome cousin Zach!!

Beus Halloween!!

Beautiful Witch----Tiffany!!
Snow White---Rylee Jo

Cave Girl---Kourtney

Scary Monster----Gunnar! He made all the girls scream!!

Zach as the football star that he is!

Cave Woman----Jessica

Why we love Halloween!

Pretty Princess Pyper!

Snake Eyes---Luke! He was even able to sneak an attack on his Uncle Chad! Pretty funny!

Storm Shadow---Cade!

Giesha Girl Mikel with her darling little Bumble Bee Lily!

Our little Redd Lion!

Super Girls!

Spider Girl--Bailey

Batgirl---Sabrina

Wonder Woman---Whitley

Super Girl--- Mylee! All tuckered out from saving the world!

Super Heroes!!

Wonder Girl- Morgan

Robin aka Kim preparing a super salad!

Phantom and Batman battling for truth and justice!

If any family could save the world, it would be this family!!

More Craziness Halloween style!

Three Blind Mice!!! Treavor, Sara and Owen

Tristen as Christine! Tiffany as a Beautiful Witch!

Adam and Tristen as Phantom and Christine

More Halloween 09

The Phantom of the Opera and Christine

Peace and Love---Trinity

Hanah Montana aka Grace

Cinderella---Jovie

80's , Hanah Montana and the Princess

The Sansom family ---work it baby!!

Sara noted that Treavor looks like Elf with all the kids playing a game!

Halloween 09 cont.

Halloween came and went with a bang this year!! Tiffany hosted the big bash AGAIN! As always, she knocked it out of the park! Fun games, goulish food, great decor and fabulous costumes by EVERYONE!!!! Next year we are looking for a new host or a new (easier) tradition! Any volunteers or ideas??? It's time to retire the black plastic!

Boston/ New Hampshire Trip

Den and I were fortunate to take Treavor and his lovely wife Sara to Boston and New Hampshire. We arrived in Boston the evening of October 7, 2009. The following morning we got up and headed for Plymouth Rock- a lot smaller than I had envisioned, but the town was a riot! The trip was a blast in every way, the company, the vistas, the food, the weather. Unfortunately, Sara's sweet Grandma Bell passed away while we were there, which she felt ready and blessed to do so, but then the trip ended abrubtly when my brother Gary passed away suddenly. But I will be eternally grateful for the week prior to heartache. That week was filled with much laughter, great conversation, delicious food and breath taking sights!

Plymouth, Mass. aka- Ghost town

This Tea and Curiosity Shop is where the man told us that actual ghosts were in the room with us right now. He had a special little contraption he pulled out of his pocket to detect their presence. "Captain Taylor is with us right now!" He informed us that his shop and building next door had most ghosts in all of New England!

New England Towns

My dream Hotel and a cool library!!!

New England

Martha's Vineyard

What About Bob?- Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee area

New Hampshire Countryside

Castle in the Clouds!

Harvard University- I feel smarter already!

Harvard University cont.

Harvard University cont.

Fenway Park!!

A highlight of the trip! Even for me!!

Boston's Hamburgers!!

Treavor didn't know what he was asking for when he asked for a double!!! Seriously the best hamburger I have ever tasted! It was basted in beer! (secret ingredient)

Treavor and Sara being Treavor and Sara!!!

Honestly, they didn't even know I was taking these pictures!?

State Capital Building & Soldiers Cemetary

Treavor took these photos! I think he did a pretty good job!!

Sights and tastes of Boston

"Cheers" Where everyone knows you name!

Dennis pictured at the Old North Church- our last stop on the Freedom Trail. Our last night in Boston we visited the bar where they filmed "Cheers", then we couldn't get that song at of our heads.

Warner, New Hampshire

We happen to drive upon this little town that had just started their annual fall foilage parade and fair! Pretty cool! We ate homemade scones!

Bed and Breakfast!

The home I want to buy!!!

Our Bed and Breakfast!

We only stayed one night in this charming B&B! We loved it!!! Sara would have loved the squeakly wood floors. The breakfast was first class. I got the recipies to try out on my family!!

New Hampshire-"Is this heaven?"

These are the grounds of the Bed and Breakfast we stayed in the town of Bedford. "Beautiful, wish you were here!"

Gary Harold Stout- my little brother!

Gary Harold Stout’s physical suffering which endured for many years ended Monday, October 12th, 2009 as he passed away suddenly in his sleep. His life will be remembered with passion for his wife Lena, his children, music, sense of humor and the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Growing up in Glendale, California, Gary’s hands were always busy at work, creating space ships and buildings with his Erector sets, painting original modern art, playing the drums, playing the drums, and playing the drums! Did I mention he liked to play the drums? I think he could sit for hours and play and not notice the time pass. It was his little slice of heaven on earth. He, his brother, Michael and his friend, Chuck Jonkey formed a band in our garage in his early youth.
Gary attended Herbert Hoover High School in Glendale. After Graduation he served a successful mission to the Independence, Missouri Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter -Day Saints. He missed his family almost as much as he missed his drum set!
After attending BYU for a time, he, along with Michael and their friend Randy Graves formed a progressive rock band called Kalaban. They collectedly wrote several songs and sold many CDs.
Gary married Carin Schaeffer who became my cherished sister, and had two beautiful children, Stephanie Danielle and Christopher Thomas. They lived in the Taylorsville area for a time before dissolving their marriage.
Sometime later Gary married Pamela Haven, another dear sister. Pam brought to their union two darling little boys, Christopher Todd and Justin Adam. Gary loved them as his own! Pam and Gary had two more wonderful children, Andrew Nicholas and Jennifer Nicole. After their marriage broke up Gary spent some time in China. Gary has always had a deep abiding love and admiration for the people of China. Gary was introduced to his soul mate, a woman named Lena who had a 13-year old daughter, Ashling. They fell madly in love and were naturally sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. As soon as he could, Gary adopted Ashling and had her sealed to him as well. Gary and Lena felt that they were born for each other.
Gary was a no-nonsense, brilliant man who excelled at drafting and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM); which he used for his vocation. Gary was an inventor and a perfectionist who had no trouble dedicating enormously long hours for his various work projects. Gary has worked and lived in the Salt Lake, Bountiful and Farmington area his entire adult life. Unfortunately for Gary, his trials and health issues were right up there with Job from the Bible. He fought the good fight, but is now reunited with his loving mother Joan. I hope you a have golden drum set in heaven Gar!! I miss you!

Gary !

Gary and me posing in our new clothes made by our mom!!

Gary and me in 1960! Also wearing outifts handmade by our mom. I remember she also made my dad a shirt to match Garys'.

Gary and Dennis shortly after Den and I were married at a Stout Family Reunion in Utah.

Elder Gary Stout at the Language Training Mission looking a little nervous as he leaves for his mission. I think I'm about two weeks pregnant here, (with Tiffany) but so excited that I am already wearing maternity clothes!

Gary's Graveside Service

My Uncle Parley and Aunt Charlene, cousin Karen, her husband and Mike
My mom's brother, Uncle Parley, Karen, husband and Todd

All of Gary's sons and his best friends were the Pallbearers. I thought I didn't have any tears left after the viewing the night before, but apparently I did. Mike and Randy were in charge of the music. Since there were no plugs at the Cemetery, that was quite a task, but they did a remarkable job. You can see Dennis holding his ear plugs in place which they passed out to all of us, but I had heard some of these songs before from Gary, and I loved them.

Graveside Service Cont.

My cousins, Toby, Julie, Diane and Susan

Ron, Gerry, Jolene and LuAnn

The Stout Cousins!!

Telisa, you were missed every second! Chad was home sick and Tara was also very sick and has been in bed ever since the luncheon ended. The purple shirts were given to all Gary's kids by Randy Graves, one of Gary's best friends and band buddy. They have the name of Gary's band "Kalaban" and the album cover that Gary designed.

The Three Wives Club- My Sisters

On October 12th, 2009, as Den and I were stuck on the 93 North freeway from New Hampshire to Boston, I received the most shocking phone call of my life. My brother Todd called to tell me he thought our brother Gary had passed away. He was standing outside his Condo, the police wouldn't let him in; just told him that there was a deceased man inside. I immediately called his wife, Lena and she confirmed through wails of tears that Gary was indeed dead. Shock, sadness, grief, bereavement and heartache ensued for me and my entire family. There was a small part of me that was relived because of Gary's intense physical pain for years and years, but my heart bled for his wife and 7 children. Gary's is my younger brother and he truly suffered physically like no else I know. Even though I knew, I still wasn't prepared for his early death.
Gary's wishes were for no funeral, just a viewing and a graveside service with an opening and closing prayer, the eulogy read and four songs of his choosing played loudly! I had my concerns, but it turned out the songs were very appropriate and quite lovely. I could just see Gary sitting at his drums playing his heart out to these tunes. After, his Chinese Ward provided a very nice luncheon at a nearby chapel. For me the day was very uplifting and healing. As you see pictured are me with his two former wives and current wife, the love of his life; Lena, Pam and Carin, whom I love very dearly. Telisa was unable to attend, so she sent a cookie bouquet to me and Stephanie. We loved it!!!!! I'm trying to understand what I need to learn from Gary's untimely passing. Maybe, that in life, we need to love our family more, forgive faster and never ever ever judge one another!!

Thankful Sabbath!

It's been two weeks since I posted my last "Thankful Sabbath", so as they say on "Dancing With The Stars" (yes, I admit I watch it!) here are the top thirteen reasons, in no particular order, for me to be thankful:

1. My wrist surgery went well, and I have less pain than I have had all year!

2. Experiencing morning scripture study with the Peters' Girls this past week--they know 24 hymns in Spanish and their Scriptures are used and worn, evidence of daily study.

3. Treavor and Sara dropping by on Sunday to show us how well Owen is walking now! It's especially endearing because after about 3 or 4 steps, he burst into laughter!! He is happiness in motion!

4. Getting a phone call Saturday night by Tiffany inviting me over to Tristen's house for the purpose of sewing Halloween costumes! Tristen and Tiffany have taken on very elaborate Princess costumes for their daughters! I remember those days! I made it until after midnight!! Are you proud girls? They were going to pull an all nighter!

5. Women's Conference at some random chapel, Dinner at Zupa's, Ice Cream at 31 Flavors and Shopping with Tara, Tristen and Sara--FUN night!! Laughing is my favorite!!

6. Receiving a cute new Halloween decoration made by Tristen!!!

7. Gunnar sharing with me that he finished reading the entire Book of Mormon!

8. Receiving an excited phone call from Telisa telling me that Bodie can say: Grandpa, Jesus and Ball!

9. Sabrina's volleyball game! She's quite the blocker!

10. Unexpected sleepover Saturday night with Sabrina and Whitley. Grandpa brought them here after the BYU game!

11. Listening to Mylee break out in song and dance! So cute!!!

12. General Conference Weekend! talks by Elder Bednar, President Uchdorf, President Holland and President Monson!!!!!!! There was more that I loved, but those hit home!!!

13. Watching Dennis spend time with his sons! After Priesthood Session they came back here, barbecued some steaks, corn on the cob, watched Football and Movies!

Reflections of Christ

Thankful Sabbath!

Today in church the Primary gave the Sacrament Meeting. I bawled through the whole thing! Not only because I was moved by the songs and the darling children who sang them, but also, I was reminded of the many years I sat in the congregation watching my own children sing and say their parts at the microphone! I have been wanting to do a post a week on what I am thankful for, so I decided to start today!!! Here is what I am thankful for this week:

The announcement that came in the mail from Bodie that he is going to be a Big Brother sometime in April!

Redd survived his horrible fall from the stairs and his eight staples are now removed!!

I got to watch my Grandson Gunnar play football with my Granddaughter Sabrina!! I needed her there to explain the game to me! (Proud grandma alert!!) Gunnar is one awesome athlete!

Taking a ride in Travis and Kim's beautiful new family van-"Gladys"!

My YW lesson is over for this week!!

Den and I finally made it to the temple Thursday late afternoon!

My clothes smell so clean now!!! (New washer and dryer!) I love love the smell of clean clothes!!

Fall is coming which means less yardwork!!

Spent an unexpected couple of hours with Travis yesterday before the BYU game! (long story!)

Was able to see and spend time with most of my family members this week.

I only made my bed once this entire week!

Tiffany's post in Joan's Girls reminding me why I love my dad. Thanks Tiff!

The sweet letters that Den and I , as well as my dad have received for the past three weeks, from all the Peters' girls!

Treavor chose to attend his Saturday Session of Stake Conference over the BYU game!! Wow Treav!

September 11- Hope and Healing

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkWc_EKLs4E

Travis loves Kim equals five daughters!

Peters family revisited!

Garden Park Ward has sentimental reason for Travis and Kim, as well as, Treavor and Sara. Their engagement pictures were taken here! So, it was a thrill for me to revisit the place where their first photo shoot together all started!

Travis, Kim and Girls!!

Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication

Kim's prayer was answered when she was called to be a member of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication Choir! They performed at the final session in the Celestial Room for the first Presidency, as well as, all those who were in attendance by satelite. Dennis and I accompanied Sabrina, Whitley and Bailey to their Stake Center where the girls excitedly and emotionally watched their talented mom. The plan was after the meeting and a yummy dinner made by all the Peters, we were going to take family pictures, as well as, Morgan's birthday photos. Kim particularly wanted some shots of the family at the Temple. Everything was going as planned except for the rain storms that showed up and quite literally put a damper on things. I got a few shots of Morgan before it started to pour. About an hour later, we drove to the temple and had about a 15 minute window between the dark clouds and rain showers! So, this is session one. Look for session two photos next week, if the weather cooperates!

Jovie Hazel!

Jovie just wanted the prize at the end of the shoot! (a popsicle!) But she is so photogenic!! I love it!

Grace and Trinity

The Charmer!

The Model!

Sansom Sisters!!

Grandpa Dennis and I babysit these adorable granddaughters for a few days last week. I couldn't resist in taking the opportunity to snap a few photos while their parents were away since summer is fading away fast! One of the reasons why I love photos so much is to see their personalities shine through!!

Gunnar, Jessica, Kourtney, Zach & Rylee Jo

The Beus gang!!!

Beus girls and boys!!!

Tiffany was able to convince her kids to pose for yet another set of photos taken by their grandma kat! Kourtney and Rylee needed their birthday photos taken. I think the girls enjoy the attention and are super awesome models, the boys would rather castrate a cow!? Beautiful kids never the less!! It's fun for me to see their growth from year to year! I'm stunned!

Cade, Luke, Pyper and Redd's parents!

The Van Leeuwen Families!!

Bodie and family!

Clay, Telisa and Bodie came to visit their collective families for a few weeks. Connie, Clay's mom desperately wanted a family picture since this was the first time in about 10 years her entire family was all here in Utah at the same time. We did our best. The day of the shoot, Bodie was throwing up and running a fever and Pyper was not in the mood for a photo shoot!? A week later, we redid a few of the individual family shots with more success! The best ones I am saving for our Christmas card, but here are a few other fun shots!

Oh Owen!!!

Owen's family!!

Owen loves the camera and the camera loves him! He just lights up when I point the camera at him!! This photo shoot was so fun!! We shot at Garden Park Ward near the U! Sara and Treavor had their engagement pictures taken there. I believe Travis and Kim did too!

24

For me there will always be a new meaning to 24 hours! On Wednesday, July 15th Dennis woke up around 4:30 am with a familiar pain in his kidney area. He woke me about 7:30 am and told me he thought he was passing a kidney stone. He started downing water. Coincidentally, he had a doctor's appointment with his back doctor at 8:45 am. At that appointment, the pain became so intense that he left during the exam, called me and said he needed the phone number of his Urologist. Dr. Labaski told him to come right in. When I met him at Dr. Labaski's office, the news was much different than either one of us anticipated. He told us, Dennis didn't have a Kidney Stone, he thought he had a Pulmonary Embolism. Naively we replied, "Oh thank goodness, it's not a kidney stone!" The doctor said, "Yeah, you need to go to emergency right now!" In emergency, we were quickly escorted to a room where myriads of tests were performed. The diagnosis was indeed a Pulmonary Embolism. The doctors reported that there were several blood clots in his right lung. Now the fear set in, as well as intense pain for Dennis! The man who prides himself on never needed pain meds even after back surgery was begging for more morphine. By 5 pm, Den was finally admitted to AltaView Hospital. His pain continued through the day and into the night until the next morning. After that, the blood thinners that they put him on started to work and the pain subsided as the minutes ticked on. Tristen came to the hospital on Wednesday around 1 pm to hold my hand, give comfort to her dad and make sure his room was all sterilized. Kim watched her 4 kids all day along with 4 of her own. One of the blessings of being a member of the Church is I was able to call on my son, Treavor and two dear friends, Rulon Horne and Paul Seppi to give Dad a blessing that evening. It was both a comfort to Dennis and myself. The rest of the family had to bit their fingernails and kneel in prayer from long distances. I know it was particularly difficult for those who couldn't be there, but we felt your love and prayers!
It's Sunday now and Dad attended church and his pain is virtually gone. No pain meds, just the blood thinners that he will need to take for another six months or so. Whew! I just feel grateful today!

Sabrina Leigh Peters 13 Years Old!

Sabrina 13 years- cont.

July 6th Sabrina turned 13 years old. Her mom brought her over to my house for her photo shoot. Here are the results! I blinked and we have three almost five teenage grandkids!! You're beautiful Sabrina on the inside as well as the outside!

A Dream Come True

Den recently came up with a plan to buy a home in foreclosure mode with a couple other families in St. George. The looked, they found and here is the result! Within three weeks of closing on the home, Den and I worked hard to get it all put together. We hope it will bring much enjoyment to our family and friends.

A Little Slice of Heaven

St. George Home

St. George Home cont.

Den turns 60!!!!! WOW!

Today, June 28th 2009, the extraordinary man that I married turned 60 years old! Neither one of us can believe that we are this old, however, with the passing of time, our love grows and our lives have been blessed abundantly! Dennis is the love of my life since I was 18 years old. We grew up in the same ward since we were infants, so we pretty much have known and loved each other our whole lives!! I knew the moment we had our first date that he had a strong and abiding testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I knew he was a remarkable missionary, I knew he was a hard worker, wise in business, loved sports, loved to make others laugh, was a loyal friend, brother and son. However, I didn't know when we married what a devoted and unselfish father he would be to our children. I KNOW his children will agree that his love, devotion and wisdom has sustained them their whole lives!
To that end, we celebrated big this year! It started with his annual Dennis Peters' Golf Tournament and then we had a birthday celebration at Spring Water Park in Orem. I think we fed about 120 people, so it was big! Dennis is a huge Patriot, so to pay honor to their Grandpa Dennis, his grandchildren sang "God Bless the USA", with Grandpa Howard Peters' flag in the background. Telisa really surprised him by making an amazing DVD of highlights of our trip to Egypt, Jordan and Israel! We think it deserves an Academy Award!
The pictures below are only is small sample of who came. Thanks to Tara, who took 95% of the pictures!!! People trickled in even up until the time we were all packed up and ready to leave. Dennis is truly loved and respected by so many. I believe that is the measure of a successful man, not money, power, titles, but the loved ones you surround yourself with!

HAPPY 60TH BIRTHDAY DENNIS!
I LOVE YOU!!!

Winners of the Tournament!

Scott Hill, Steve Archer, Dennis Peters and Rulon Horne

I love the look on Dennis' face watching his grandkids sing!

Family and Friends of Dennis!

Todd Stout and Travis Peters

Tristen VanLeeuwen and Tara Sansom

Treavor, Sara and Owen Peters, Ron Beach and Susan Scollick

Nancy Horne, my BFF who is always there for me!! She spent the whole day with me helping me pick up everything and set the whole thing up!

Family and Friends cont.

Steve and Trina Metcalf and Jody Done

Owen get kissed by his Grandmas!!! Kathyn and Liane Bell

Owen and his Grandpa Justin Bell

Cupcakes and Friends

Ken and Jody Done

Luke checking out those amazing cupcakes!

Dennis' siblings- Lee Peters and Susan Scollick

Family and Friends cont.

Dennis and Anne Vincent (former missionary of ours and his wife!)

Chad, Tiffany, Gunnar and Jessica Beus

Evelyn and Andrea Barlow Rounds! Friends from Glendale. Andrea was my roommate at Dixie College. She and Dennis were in a Church Film about the LA Temple. She and Dennis played a couple getting married. Dad and I were engaged. So he posed with her for the pictures and then came over and kissed me. He got a lot strange looks!

Below is my sweet and beautiful niece Mikel Stout Blake with Whitley, Kourtney and Trinity

Family and Friends cont.

Treavor and Sara Peters

Dennis Mission Presidents and their Granddaughter, Robert and Helen Wells

Adam and Tristen VanLeeuwen

Past and present

Gary and Lena Stout

Gil and Paula Fellingham

David and Diane Noble

Steve and Jan Booth

Past and Present

Todd and Sheryl Stout

Steve and Britney Finch and family -another one of our wonderful missionaries

Sabrina Peters

Gordon, Master of Ceremonies, Lambert!!

Fabulous friends!!

Rulon and Nancy Horne

Wendy Powell and grandson. Kim, her husband was there too, but no picture!?

Mitch and Kim Olsen

Special Guests!

Ike and Leslie Egan

Debra Johnson and Kat. Larry was also there, but no photo. Sorry Larry!

Mike VanLeeuwen with his beautiful Daughter in Law

Paul and Jill Seppi

Special Guests! cont.

Jovie Sansom

Kimberlee Peters

Gordon Lambert- Loyal friend to the end!

Zach Beus and Cade VanLeeuwen

God Bless the USA!! Grandpa Dennis

Redd Van Leeuwen

Rylee and Jessica Beus

The whole gang! (well all who can sing!) Gunnar is holding up with flag, with the help is his mom!

The Gate Beautiful Painting

Dennis received this painting of Old Jerusalem from me. Of all our trips, this was the highlight of his life! Dennis is of course surrounded by his loving children, Travis, Tiffany, Tara, Tristen and Treavor. Telisa is, of course, there in spirit!

Lovers Leap and Den's favorite gifts!

Gifts from the heart--
The first photo is the Menu of the DVD Telisa made for her dad. Frankly, we were blown away by it's professionalism and creativity! We both cried and laughed. Wonderful job Seis!
Next, Dennis' sister Susan, found all of Dennis' letters that he wrote home during his mission. She put them in binders for him, but beyond that, she read through them all, typed up some of his stories and quotes from the letters and made a little booklet for each one of his children! Pretty amazing!
And last, Sandra Rast, one of our favorite artist, recently painted Old Jerusalem. I happen to see the original in her home. When we returned home from our trip, I went to work at getting a copy to give to Dennis for his birthday. It wasn't ready until about two hours prior to his party! Whew!

Tara, where's Jovie?

A favorite family game!! Tara's partner Jovie, is having a hard time holding her mom up!?

It was a day to remember for our family. It was not without incident! It started with me omitted the date on the invitation! Then on the day of the party rainstorms, wind, cold temperatures for June (in the 60's), I left the plates, cups and napkins at home which I realized when I arrived at the park in Orem. Thankfully our good neighbors, Steve and Trina Metcalf came to our rescue. Tara came about three hours early to help me set up (she was there before I was!!)
But at the end of the day, Dennis was overcome with joy and emotion for all the love and support from his family and friends.

"We Are Family! I Got All My Sisters With Me!"

A miracle occurred last week when all my daughters and my niece were able to come together for a Girls Trip to St. George, Utah! Den and I bought a home down there with two other families about three weeks prior to our trip. The home was new, and had been vacant for about 3 years. There were numerous repairs, and the job of getting it furnished and livable seemed impossible! However, somehow we pulled it off moments before the first carload of girls (Tara, Kim, Sara and Telisa) arrived at approximately 4:39 pm on Wednesday, June 17th! (Not that I was excited or anything!!) For me it was like Christmas morning when the kids were little! About five hours later, Stephanie and her newborn baby boy Joshua drove up from California! And then the last carload arrived around 1:00 in the blessed AM carrying Tiffany and Tristen! We all waited up and were thrilled that everyone finally made it all safe and sound! Our last night Tristen friend, Teresa drove down from Cedar City and spent the evening with us, as well. She was delightful! We enjoyed great food, laughing until we peed our pants, games, the pool, the hot tub, shopping, spa treatments, a movie and screaming at the sight of cockroaches running across the floor, which we learned love the sweet desert of St. George! Who knew?! I celebrated my 56th birthday on the 19th! I appreciate the sweet cards and gifts I received. I love all my girls so much! Next year we hope Mikel can join us! A million thanks to all the mothers, dads, grandpas, neighbors and mother-in-laws who cared for my grandchildren so the girls could have a much needed break!

My Girls and their Games!

This is pathetic, but there was too much going on to remember to take any photos of the shenanigans during our girls trip!! This was the last night, Stephanie was putting Joshua to bed and Sara wasn't feeling well, and needed more than three hours of sleep a night! So sadly, they are not pictured in these photos! If any of you girls have any other pictures you took, please share....

One of my Heroes!

This is Maude Zundel. She passed away last week in American Fork, but she lived for many years in Glendale, California where Den and I grew up. She was one of the most positive and delightful example to me during my childhood and teenage years. She was always laughings, always serving, always making quilts for anyone who looked the slightest bit cold. She taught me how to quilt in the wee hours of the morning before Seminary and School. Her home was an open door. Time and time again my friends and I would show up at her door around 5 am. She would squeal with delight, take us into her living room and let us quilt until we had to go to early morning seminary. She often fed us homemade cinnamon rolls. She was the mother of five daughters, she worked full time at Forest Lawn and was the wife of a Bishop. A quote that I must of heard a thousand times from her, no matter what the situation was: "Isn't this fun!" Some people come into your life and make such an impression and impact, Maude was one the individuals for me. We loved her very much!

37 YEARS!!

Den and I are a little stunned that 37 years have passed by so quickly! However, we are reminded pretty quickly when we see our large posterity, as well as, the MIRROR! We had a fabulous time yesterday. Our first priority was to send another round of birthday postcards for Dennis' birthday. As you probably noticed, the card I made --yeah, I accidentally omitted the date of the party!?! So we printed up a postcard, cut and stamped them and headed to the post office. After which, we went to the new Draper Temple for a Session, which was beautiful. We lunched at Tsumani and then went to Mall and shopped! (Dennis' idea!) I know, wierd huh? Dennis hates to shop. Dennis bought me a much needed purple purse and perfume. (that's a joke) I bought Dennis two Tommy Bahama shirts, (his favorite) a white dress shirt and some dress shoes. After we attempted to see a really good movie, but sadly there were none! We had already seen Star Trek, Angels and Demons and Wolverine, so we tried to see Land of the Lost with Will Ferrell! We left after about 25 minutes! It was a huge dud!! So we left and went to Deseret Book. Dad bought books, I bought chocolate cake! After we went home, ate and watched the movie "Masada" which is a historical place we visited in Jordan. It's a six hour mini series. We got half way through! It's was very good, we were just tired! The toilet paper is front and center because it has been a tradition since our kids were little that they would TP the inside of our home laced with cards. So yesterday when we came home, Tara and girls had TPed our family room and kitchen!! Thanks Tara and thanks to all our kids for their phone calls, e-mails, text messages and cute homemade card from Telisa!!