Misty and Rick's 10th wedding anniversary

Of course you will notice that there are no photos of Misty and Rick and that is because they were on a vacation in Dana Point for four days. I watched the kids and we had a blast doing all kind of crafts and watching movies! I am such a fan of pbskids.org now - what an amazing site for kids! The kids were so good and I got to know Simon so much better - what a smart little whip! Anytime he hears a siren he raises his finger and waves in the air (the sign for sirens.) Simon really adores his sister and loves to cuddle with her. She is so good with him. You see I have converted another grandchild to Pepsi? I love the look on his face like he is really getting away with something! We never left the house for the four days. But, I have to say I was tired at the end! Wow, so much energy! Happy Anniversary Misty and Rick!

Silly Sisto Sewing Seminar in Scenic Midway

The gingerbreak competition was great fun to see (and snag some new ideas) The barn with the nativity scene inside (all made of cookies) was stunning! We think it went for about $300.




We went to the Nativity exhibit at one of the Stake Houses in Midway and we almost didn't go - whew, what we would have missed. This is the largest collection of creches in the world! They were made out of everything you could imagine! Very impressive! They had a puppet show for the children and at the end the children sang "Silent Night" - that started my Christmas season. They also had a stable scene set up and costumes that you could dress up as the nativity scene. This is done every year and is a don't miss if you are in the area. Amazing exhibit and beautifully done!








This was our home for 3 nights and 4 days - thanks Carole for setting that up, it was perfect!

Dana and Bob came up and visited us and Carole was showing them what she made and then we all had to do "show and tell!" It was great to see them and catch up with them for a short visit!

We did release the ankle chains in order to go out and have lunch one day and do a little exploring. We ate at the new Zermatt Resort - it was empty. Very sad - lovely walking weather however.











This is my new house, backyard and my own deer - what a beautiful home and the backyard was adorable. How much? I have no idea, but it is for sale!



This is one of many hot pockets around Midway - very deep!

In Midway there is a crater that you can go in and be certified to be a scuba diver. The water is warm and is 65 feet deep. I was floored that this has been here all the time and I didn't know about it - either did Marci.


Here are the silly sisters sewing -



The sibling gathering - Marcus and Marci playing uke together was so fun! Vicki played a little too! Marcus is in a play for the Christmas season and so that is why he has the beard. Had to believe that is my brother and not Santa. Devin made a great ham and bean soup, Carole made homemade French bread and Becky brought a delicious salad.

Our trip to Manteca~

Misty and I drove Friday after Thanksgiving to Nan and Chad's house. We had a little "fun" on the way up as we got a flat tire! But it did not dampen our spirits. We got the tire changed and then had to buy a new one. We did it! We got to Nan and Chad's in time for dinner. Nan had made gingerbread houses for Chad's family to do on Thanksgiving and she made an extra for the kids to do together. It was so much fun! Unfortunately I had a small camera that did not take great photos, but here they are. We also visited the Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield, California which is always a "treat"! Emma played the piano and guitar and sang. Then Piper wanted to play the instruments, so it looks like she is playing the piano for the group. Piper just loved her cousins and didn't want to leave. When we got in the car she asked, "if they would still love her." Geat fun to get them together. Simon was just running around and loving all the attention.
We played the game called Quelf and we had about a 20 minute laughing session! My ribs hurt the next day! Thanks Hunter family for all the fun and thanks Misty for driving up.

I realize how blessed I am

November 25th -

My biggest blessing this day is my son Mark! Okay, just with that sentence I choke up! Mark has been a constant blessing since he was born. He was an amazingly good child growing up and he continues being an amazingly good young man (I have to say young man or I will really sound old). He is a super Father and a supportive and kind husband, from what I see. Mark has always supported me and he has always been loving and understanding in my times of need. He was always so kind to his grandparents and they loved him more than I think he realizes. They were also so very proud of him. A mother truly could not ask for a better son than Mark. I was blessed to have him first to be a brother to his sisters and he has always been there for them. I love you so much Mark! Happy Birthday, Mark and Happy Thanksgiving!


November 24th -
1. Having my fingers and toes done! Such a simple spoiling that I love so much.
2. Sending my camera in for repair AND buying an upgrade - how spoiled am I? Don't answer that!
3. Buying tickets to Italy, unfortunately about an hour too late, but they are purchased! Ciao!
4. The house being clean!
5. Getting ready to go to Nan's house with Misty and kids - such fun! Can't wait!

November 23rd -
1. Grateful for good friends at work.
2. Not coughing all day.
3. Honest conversations with family members and sweet understanding and same heart!
4. My very healthy family - we have been so very blessed with all the kids and grandkids.
5. Getting a free room in Rome! Yeah!