Happy 4th of July. What a privilege it is to live in our land of freedom and opportunity.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
The Jacksons were all infected with colds this week. Last week Stacie became ill and unfortunately she passed t on to Kevin and Henry. On Tuesday Henry had his 4 month check up where he weighed in at 13 lbs, 11 oz and measured at 25 inches tall. He is developing well and smiling more and more each day.
On Thursday Kevin's summer course ended and Stacie, Kevin and Henry went to a barbecue at their friend Nick's house with Kevin's classmates. Friday was Henry's last day at day care for a little while. Kevin is excited to spend the next month and a half with his buddy. On Saturday Kevin helped a couple people from the ward move and Stacie made lots of cookies. Today they will celebrate Canada Day with some grilling. This morning they were excited to witness Henry rolling over for the first time.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
It has been sizzling here in the great midwest. Thankfully we have not lost power like the Washington D.C. region. It has been a busy week last week with Logan having soccer games on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Their team won all of them. Logan has several games this week and a tournament on July 14th to round out his busy soccer season. He made some really nice plays.
Lanette has been attending school Monday through Friday. On Mondays and Thursdays she has stayed to work at the day care. This week one of the senior citizens gave her a bracelet that she really enjoys. She is very excited about spending time at the Elmhorst home in mid July. Lanette is pretty certain the the North Pole is melting this week and the the Day After Tomorrow is sure to happen in 2012.
Emily came to visit this week. She is working hard and becoming excited about Trent and her upcoming wedding. The date is pretty much set in stone for October 30th. She plans on keeping the plans very simple. Mom and her bought the wedding dress today online so things are going forward step by step.
We have a new car. Mom and I bought the car on Friday night. It is a Mazda CX-7 which is a cross over vehicle. Mom loves the buttons and sunroof. She picked it out and did the lion share of the paperwork and figuring out how to get it into our budget.
Mom and I had the privilege of meeting Julie and Jeff at the temple on Saturday. We were able to accomplish a great deal of work for our family including initiatories done by Mom, an endowment done by me and sealings done by Julie, Jeff and me. Mom enjoyed her grandmotherly opportunity to watch Alex while Julie and Jeff enjoyed the blessing of the temple. We really have a wonderful temple here in St Paul which a delightful temple president and matron. They welcome us going in and leaving and always make us feel important.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
June 26, 2012
Grant's News
Grant's week was pretty busy at work. For the last two weekends, there has been a youth baseball tournament in town, and that causes the restaurant to be filled to the brim with sweaty and hungry twelve year olds. It ain't cute. On Wednesday he had a day off and he was able to plant a new pine tree in the yard with made him happy. He hasn't planted any trees since the two willows earlier in the spring, so his green thumb was itching. In honor of Midsummer, he read Midsummer Night's Dream. This week he also hit the point where it is less than a month until he gets to go to Albuquerque. He listens to "Santa Fe" from Newsies at least once a day. Grant will get to be there for a week and a half in late July.
The Colorado Haws News
This week has been full of mixed emotions. On Monday we went to Texas Roadhouse to celebrate Melanie’s birthday. The food and the service were excellent. On Tuesday the girls had a swim play date with Sydney and Ryan. Then on Wednesday was the big emotional day for Melanie because we were first told that we would be going to Germany where Andy would have been deployed as soon as we got there, and then after Andy fought with branch “big Army” for a little bit we were told that we are going to be moving to Fort Wainwright (Fairbanks), Alaska before school starts. So now we are trying to look at the positive side of things and need to make the best of it. On Saturday we enjoyed the day walking around the temple; and as I enjoyed doing a session Andy took the girls to Deseret Book and Target so they could spend their hard earn dollar on a kite. I am grateful that we have a temple so close which will not be the case at Fort Wainwright because the temple is a 6 hour trip each way. On the way back from the temple, we saw a black bear on the side of the road; the girls thought that was pretty exciting. Sunday at church Haley and Kayla were being a bit rambunctious in sacrament meeting. But all in all it was a great day.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
This week we celebrated Grant's birthday. It was a lot of fun. Julie and Jeff and Emily joined us for the celebration. Grant's special birthday meal was delicious. He received some memorable gifts from family.
Logan and dad went on a campout to Mt Olympus in Wisconsin Dells. There were 7 scouts and 2 leaders. We all had a really good time and Logan went on the very awesome roller coaster called "Hades". It was a great ride but I could only do it once. I think Logan had a great time with all his fellow scouts.
Lanette had a relatively quite week but was excited to know that she will be able to attend Tiny Tigers during the period between the end of summer school and the beginning of the new school year.
Mom and Lanette spent Friday and Saturday together because I used the car for the trip. Mom was able to get some work done on her back room. She has shifted her interest to the shopping for a new car. That is a very exciting possibility on her horizon.
Hope you will all have a great week.
Love,
Dad
Grant's week was pretty busy at work. For the last two weekends, there has been a youth baseball tournament in town, and that causes the restaurant to be filled to the brim with sweaty and hungry twelve year olds. It ain't cute. On Wednesday he had a day off and he was able to plant a new pine tree in the yard with made him happy. He hasn't planted any trees since the two willows earlier in the spring, so his green thumb was itching. In honor of Midsummer, he read Midsummer Night's Dream. This week he also hit the point where it is less than a month until he gets to go to Albuquerque. He listens to "Santa Fe" from Newsies at least once a day. Grant will get to be there for a week and a half in late July.
The Colorado Haws News
This week has been full of mixed emotions. On Monday we went to Texas Roadhouse to celebrate Melanie’s birthday. The food and the service were excellent. On Tuesday the girls had a swim play date with Sydney and Ryan. Then on Wednesday was the big emotional day for Melanie because we were first told that we would be going to Germany where Andy would have been deployed as soon as we got there, and then after Andy fought with branch “big Army” for a little bit we were told that we are going to be moving to Fort Wainwright (Fairbanks), Alaska before school starts. So now we are trying to look at the positive side of things and need to make the best of it. On Saturday we enjoyed the day walking around the temple; and as I enjoyed doing a session Andy took the girls to Deseret Book and Target so they could spend their hard earn dollar on a kite. I am grateful that we have a temple so close which will not be the case at Fort Wainwright because the temple is a 6 hour trip each way. On the way back from the temple, we saw a black bear on the side of the road; the girls thought that was pretty exciting. Sunday at church Haley and Kayla were being a bit rambunctious in sacrament meeting. But all in all it was a great day.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
This week we celebrated Grant's birthday. It was a lot of fun. Julie and Jeff and Emily joined us for the celebration. Grant's special birthday meal was delicious. He received some memorable gifts from family.
Logan and dad went on a campout to Mt Olympus in Wisconsin Dells. There were 7 scouts and 2 leaders. We all had a really good time and Logan went on the very awesome roller coaster called "Hades". It was a great ride but I could only do it once. I think Logan had a great time with all his fellow scouts.
Lanette had a relatively quite week but was excited to know that she will be able to attend Tiny Tigers during the period between the end of summer school and the beginning of the new school year.
Mom and Lanette spent Friday and Saturday together because I used the car for the trip. Mom was able to get some work done on her back room. She has shifted her interest to the shopping for a new car. That is a very exciting possibility on her horizon.
Hope you will all have a great week.
Love,
Dad
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
June 19, 2012
Happy Birthday to Melanie. We will are so blessed that Melanie is part of our family!!!
The Haws Family of Colorado
This past Tuesday the girls were excited to have their aunt Vanesa and cousins Wyatt and Luke visit. They were especially excited to have them come to their swimming class and watch them jump off the diving board. Wednesday Andy and I enjoyed going on a date especially because we had a free babysitter at the house. The girls were sad to see their cousins leave, but easily got over it by taking them to the zoo where they were able to feed the giraffe and see a sleeping grizzly bear. On Sunday Haley and Kayla were very glad that their daddy was here to sing to him in church and also for him to hear Kayla say the scripture and prayer in primary.
The Jackson Family of Albuquerque
This week Kevin and Stacie enjoyed some wonderful times with Henry. Kevin likes to eat Henry's many chins, which he calls Henry's jowel bacon. It makes Henry laugh hysterically. On Friday the day care hosted a breakfast for dads. Stacie and Kevin enjoyed the extra time with Henry. Kevin received an imprint of Henry's foot which is now proudly displayed on his office window sill. On Saturday Stacie and Henry ventured out to find something to show Kevin how much they appreciate him. They settled on some grilling things. On Sunday they had a nice breakfast together and enjoyed laughing and singing and playing with their baby boy.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
This week has been a stormy week but despite that we enjoyed some good times. On Sunday for Father's day Logan played the accompaniment for a song sung by the youth and young men/young women's leaders. He did a great job and was complimented by many people in the branch.
Lanette enjoyed time with the Elmhorst family. The disaster was one of her SD cards had some type of malfunction. She has desperately contacted almost the entire family, the high school computer staff and probably everyone else within a hour mile radius looking for the answer. Thankfully Jeff solved the problem and peace has returned to our home.
Emily and Trent joined us for dinner on Sunday. It was fun to have them with us. They are planning on getting married in October but exact details and dates are not set. Emily is learning a lot about financial matters and is making some important choices. They would very much like a car but have found that bicycling and waking works too.
I booked a lot of miles on cars and planes this last week. I traveled to Chippewa Falls and Minocqua on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively. Then on Friday I drove to Minneapolis and flew out to Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina. I arrived at the hotel a little of midnight then got up about 7 pm and spoke at the meeting in the morning. I enjoyed listening to other speakers during the day and then caught a plane that afternoon and flew back to Minneapolis arriving at home at 2 AM on Sunday. In my patriarchal blessing I was promised that I would have many opportunities in my life. That promised has been fulfilled on many occasions. This is one more of the opportunities.
One of the sad events in my life this week was the death of one of my very special patients in a car accident. It was really sad. I did have the opportunity of going to her viewing and funeral on Sunday and Monday. Life is very fragile. Please be careful in your driving.
Mom has been busy with doing so much for all of us. She had to rent a car for some of her travels while I was out of town. I think she kind of enjoyed that! She has enjoyed time with each of her children whether by long distance calls or personal time at home. She has enjoyed finding special gifts for her son-in-laws and sons for Father's Day. For me she gave me a framed picture of our family for my office and some money to buy hiking shoes.
We hope you will have a wonderful week. We love you all.
Dad
The Haws Family of Colorado
This past Tuesday the girls were excited to have their aunt Vanesa and cousins Wyatt and Luke visit. They were especially excited to have them come to their swimming class and watch them jump off the diving board. Wednesday Andy and I enjoyed going on a date especially because we had a free babysitter at the house. The girls were sad to see their cousins leave, but easily got over it by taking them to the zoo where they were able to feed the giraffe and see a sleeping grizzly bear. On Sunday Haley and Kayla were very glad that their daddy was here to sing to him in church and also for him to hear Kayla say the scripture and prayer in primary.
The Jackson Family of Albuquerque
This week Kevin and Stacie enjoyed some wonderful times with Henry. Kevin likes to eat Henry's many chins, which he calls Henry's jowel bacon. It makes Henry laugh hysterically. On Friday the day care hosted a breakfast for dads. Stacie and Kevin enjoyed the extra time with Henry. Kevin received an imprint of Henry's foot which is now proudly displayed on his office window sill. On Saturday Stacie and Henry ventured out to find something to show Kevin how much they appreciate him. They settled on some grilling things. On Sunday they had a nice breakfast together and enjoyed laughing and singing and playing with their baby boy.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
This week has been a stormy week but despite that we enjoyed some good times. On Sunday for Father's day Logan played the accompaniment for a song sung by the youth and young men/young women's leaders. He did a great job and was complimented by many people in the branch.
Lanette enjoyed time with the Elmhorst family. The disaster was one of her SD cards had some type of malfunction. She has desperately contacted almost the entire family, the high school computer staff and probably everyone else within a hour mile radius looking for the answer. Thankfully Jeff solved the problem and peace has returned to our home.
Emily and Trent joined us for dinner on Sunday. It was fun to have them with us. They are planning on getting married in October but exact details and dates are not set. Emily is learning a lot about financial matters and is making some important choices. They would very much like a car but have found that bicycling and waking works too.
I booked a lot of miles on cars and planes this last week. I traveled to Chippewa Falls and Minocqua on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively. Then on Friday I drove to Minneapolis and flew out to Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina. I arrived at the hotel a little of midnight then got up about 7 pm and spoke at the meeting in the morning. I enjoyed listening to other speakers during the day and then caught a plane that afternoon and flew back to Minneapolis arriving at home at 2 AM on Sunday. In my patriarchal blessing I was promised that I would have many opportunities in my life. That promised has been fulfilled on many occasions. This is one more of the opportunities.
One of the sad events in my life this week was the death of one of my very special patients in a car accident. It was really sad. I did have the opportunity of going to her viewing and funeral on Sunday and Monday. Life is very fragile. Please be careful in your driving.
Mom has been busy with doing so much for all of us. She had to rent a car for some of her travels while I was out of town. I think she kind of enjoyed that! She has enjoyed time with each of her children whether by long distance calls or personal time at home. She has enjoyed finding special gifts for her son-in-laws and sons for Father's Day. For me she gave me a framed picture of our family for my office and some money to buy hiking shoes.
We hope you will have a wonderful week. We love you all.
Dad
Monday, June 11, 2012
June 11, 2012
The Jackson Family of Albuquerque
Last Sunday Kevin and Stacie celebrated Henry's 100 day old birthday. On Monday Kevin started his summer course on Paleography (the study of ancient handwriting), which meant that Henry had to start day care. It was hard for Stacie and Kevin to leave him there, but Henry seemed to have a good week exploring new things and playing around other babies.
On Saturday Stacie enjoyed taking Henry on a walk to the park in the beautiful weather. In the evening Kevin, Stacie and Henry went to a barbecue at his professor's house. It was fun for them to be around friends and, of course, everyone loved Henry.
This upcoming week they hope to see Henry roll over for the first time. It looks like he is getting really close!
The Colorado Haws Family
June 10, 2012
Welcome home Andy!!! We had long awaited the time for the home coming on Monday night. Haley and Kayla thought we were going to the airport to meet someone else. Needless to say they were very excited that the person we were waiting for was daddy! The rest of this week Haley and Kayla had swim lessons and were even able to jump off the diving board. On Friday we were sad to see my mom fly back to Utah. We had such a great time with her here and Andy and I were even to get in a few dates while she was here.
June 3, 2012
We had a lot of fun this past week hanging out with family and friends. On Monday Haley and Kayla helped my mom with the garden, make bread, feed the dogs and chickens, roasted hot dogs around a campfire (which Haley and Kayla were very excited to do), light some fireworks, and Haley put together a wonderful family home evening on respecting all of Heavenly Fathers creations. On Tuesday went met up with one of my wonderful friend’s Mariam who I have not seen in over 7 years. It was so great to see her and her children. Wednesday we went fishing up Parowan canyon at Yankee Lake where Haley caught her first fish! We were all very excited for her. Both Haley and Kayla even helped gut it, but Haley was the only one who ate some of the fish. Later that night she even asked if she could eat more fish! On Thursday as we were headed up to Manti, my mom started having engine trouble in Beaver. With the result of that, the girls were able to spend three hours playing at the McDonalds play place while we waited for DJ to pick us up. All in all it turned out okay. Friday I was able to spend another wonderful couple of hours at the temple with my mom. I love going to the temple and feeling the peaceful solace. Later we took pictures of Haley and Kayla at the temple. The city has recently put in a reflection pond down from the Manti temple which I thought was beautiful. After taking pictures we went to my sister Jodi’s house. We had a really great time seeing her. I also tried on her stilettos…yeah they are not for me. I had to hold on to both Jodi and my mom to walk in them. Later that night Haley made a scarecrow out of sticks at my dad’s house. On Saturday morning we headed back to Colorado. When we arrived home Haley and Kayla had made some signs for Andy, but they think the signs are for my friend Lisa. Andy’s flight was suppose to leave Kuwait on Saturday, but was delayed until Sunday because of a sandstorm. So he should be here by Tuesday! Sunday we went to church and later my mom helped Haley and Kayla make cookies.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
This has been a busy week for us here in Wisconsin. Logan and Emily both had soccer games so Mom and I had to divide and conquer. We were able to go together on Tuesday to Wisconsin Rapids but Thursday we split up to go to Wausau and Eau Claire. Emily ended her high school soccer career playing against a very good Eau Claire team. She did very well and can be very proud of her success. Logan's team won both games last week.
Lanette has started summer school today and had a really good time. She loves to go and spend time with the kids and adults at the daycare center. She continues to enjoy reading and talking with many people.
Logan and I enjoyed a hiking trip in an area called Levis Mound. It had beautiful overlooks from the "mountains" of Wisconsin. We are preparing as a troop for a 50 mile hike in the Porcupine Mountain State Park this August. We plan on doing preparation hikes throughout the summer as we prepare for the big one.
Mom has been the bastian of stability in our home this week. She nutures all of her children with great love, insight and concern. We are very lucky to have her. I am not so sure how happy she has been with having me. I schedule her, Logan and Lanette on Saturday to go a food storage activity. For some reason she is not too excited about canning peaches this weekend while I am out of town.
Well, I love you all and hope this update finds you in good spirits.
Love,
Dad
Last Sunday Kevin and Stacie celebrated Henry's 100 day old birthday. On Monday Kevin started his summer course on Paleography (the study of ancient handwriting), which meant that Henry had to start day care. It was hard for Stacie and Kevin to leave him there, but Henry seemed to have a good week exploring new things and playing around other babies.
On Saturday Stacie enjoyed taking Henry on a walk to the park in the beautiful weather. In the evening Kevin, Stacie and Henry went to a barbecue at his professor's house. It was fun for them to be around friends and, of course, everyone loved Henry.
This upcoming week they hope to see Henry roll over for the first time. It looks like he is getting really close!
The Colorado Haws Family
June 10, 2012
Welcome home Andy!!! We had long awaited the time for the home coming on Monday night. Haley and Kayla thought we were going to the airport to meet someone else. Needless to say they were very excited that the person we were waiting for was daddy! The rest of this week Haley and Kayla had swim lessons and were even able to jump off the diving board. On Friday we were sad to see my mom fly back to Utah. We had such a great time with her here and Andy and I were even to get in a few dates while she was here.
June 3, 2012
We had a lot of fun this past week hanging out with family and friends. On Monday Haley and Kayla helped my mom with the garden, make bread, feed the dogs and chickens, roasted hot dogs around a campfire (which Haley and Kayla were very excited to do), light some fireworks, and Haley put together a wonderful family home evening on respecting all of Heavenly Fathers creations. On Tuesday went met up with one of my wonderful friend’s Mariam who I have not seen in over 7 years. It was so great to see her and her children. Wednesday we went fishing up Parowan canyon at Yankee Lake where Haley caught her first fish! We were all very excited for her. Both Haley and Kayla even helped gut it, but Haley was the only one who ate some of the fish. Later that night she even asked if she could eat more fish! On Thursday as we were headed up to Manti, my mom started having engine trouble in Beaver. With the result of that, the girls were able to spend three hours playing at the McDonalds play place while we waited for DJ to pick us up. All in all it turned out okay. Friday I was able to spend another wonderful couple of hours at the temple with my mom. I love going to the temple and feeling the peaceful solace. Later we took pictures of Haley and Kayla at the temple. The city has recently put in a reflection pond down from the Manti temple which I thought was beautiful. After taking pictures we went to my sister Jodi’s house. We had a really great time seeing her. I also tried on her stilettos…yeah they are not for me. I had to hold on to both Jodi and my mom to walk in them. Later that night Haley made a scarecrow out of sticks at my dad’s house. On Saturday morning we headed back to Colorado. When we arrived home Haley and Kayla had made some signs for Andy, but they think the signs are for my friend Lisa. Andy’s flight was suppose to leave Kuwait on Saturday, but was delayed until Sunday because of a sandstorm. So he should be here by Tuesday! Sunday we went to church and later my mom helped Haley and Kayla make cookies.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
This has been a busy week for us here in Wisconsin. Logan and Emily both had soccer games so Mom and I had to divide and conquer. We were able to go together on Tuesday to Wisconsin Rapids but Thursday we split up to go to Wausau and Eau Claire. Emily ended her high school soccer career playing against a very good Eau Claire team. She did very well and can be very proud of her success. Logan's team won both games last week.
Lanette has started summer school today and had a really good time. She loves to go and spend time with the kids and adults at the daycare center. She continues to enjoy reading and talking with many people.
Logan and I enjoyed a hiking trip in an area called Levis Mound. It had beautiful overlooks from the "mountains" of Wisconsin. We are preparing as a troop for a 50 mile hike in the Porcupine Mountain State Park this August. We plan on doing preparation hikes throughout the summer as we prepare for the big one.
Mom has been the bastian of stability in our home this week. She nutures all of her children with great love, insight and concern. We are very lucky to have her. I am not so sure how happy she has been with having me. I schedule her, Logan and Lanette on Saturday to go a food storage activity. For some reason she is not too excited about canning peaches this weekend while I am out of town.
Well, I love you all and hope this update finds you in good spirits.
Love,
Dad
Monday, May 28, 2012
May 28, 2012
The International Haws Family
So I am a day early, or several weeks late, depending on your point of view but thought that I would take a moment to tell you about our week and the happenings of our lives.
Really, nothing has changed. I am serious, nothing has really developed over the last couple of weeks.
Lucas is doing exceptionally well at soccer and if we are here he will be participating in a tournament hosted by a professional team in a professional stadium in Sao Paulo. It is a sort of try out/scouting arena. It is quite a privilege. I even had the chance to watch him play a bit and was impressed.
Felipe has had a rough couple of weeks. He decided to break up with a girl that he had liked for almost a year. It was a tough decision but he is certain that it is important for him. That has left him a bit lost, for what is the reason to facebook when you are tortured with pictures of the person you so loved and what is the purpose for life without facebook. Wait, news coming in ... new facebook romance has begun and life has resumed and all is beautiful again.
Derick is doing well. He has struggled lately as some of his friends do not have to go to school and he would like live the life of Huckleberry Finn as well. We had a fun evening last night as the two of us talked about when he was little and the fun things that we used to do together, like how I carried him on my shoulders to school everyday and how he loved Dallin Dalmatian (Renata gave Dallin away while I was gone and Derick has missed him almost as much as he missed me).
Renata is doing well. Busy as mother's tend to be. Renata has worked hard to make sure that I can work in peace while working from home. She has been trying to be more regular in her church going and has been very regular in her Bible study, she tells me that she is in Lucas and enjoying it very much.
As for myself I have been having far too much fun. When I came to Brazil I decided that I wanted to try a new operating system, I have always used Windows at work (as most workplaces do) and have used a Mac regularly for the last two year while working on iPhone/iPad development, now I wanted to get familiar with Linux. I decided to start with the easiest form of Linux to learn, Ubuntu. It has been fun and much easier than I had originally imagined. With this I have become closer to new programming languages and have started to learn Perl. The entire experience has been thrilling! The best part almost everything is free, that is amazing, I have not had to pay for a program yet. I won't even start my rant on the costs in programming environments on Windows or Apple policies for programmers, let's just say 'free' is not an option.
I hope that you are all well.
Love,
Jeff
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
The weeks seems to be flying by for Stacie, Kevin and Henry. Henry turned three months this week and is getting bigger, smarter, and cuter day by day. Kevin is very thankful for his opportunity to spend the last two weeks with his little guy and will miss him very much while he is taking his summer course over the next month. The three amigos are enjoying the long weekend together as a family. On Saturday they redeemed a Groupon for candy covered apples and they did some delicious grilling. They hope that the weather and air are nice on Monday so they can enjoy a walk in the bosque by the Rio Grande. On Sunday Stacie baked some homemade bread, which was lovely, and in the evening they enjoyed Skyping us here in Marshfield. It was neat to have Henry and Alex on Skype together.
The Colorado Haws Family
This week has seemed to fly by. On Monday Haley went on her field trip to an animal sanctuary. Her favorite part of the field trip was seeing the tigers. On Wednesday Haley had her Renaissance assembly and was her last day of school. She was sad to leave the first grade but is very excited to be in second grade next year. On Thursday we made it to Utah to visit family. I was so glad that the girls did very well on the trip, but I was surprised that they stayed up from 3:00 am (when we left) to 9:00 pm that night without even taking a nap! On Friday we were able to enjoy a barbeque at my dad’s house with some of my siblings and their families. I was also very glad that I was able to go to the temple that day with my mom. It is always a wonderful place to be. On Saturday morning, Haley and Kayla ran the first block of the 5k run that my mom was running, not by choice, but because they were with my mom when it started while I was parking the van. They were glad that they did not have to run all of it, but were excited to see Grandma Nancy cross the finish line. Later that morning we met up with Jessica, one of my really good friends that I have not seen in a couple of years. It was so wonderful to see her and her family even though we were getting blown away by the wind. We also were able to visit with my Grandma Keisel for a few minutes before we headed down to Paragonah. Sunday after church the weather was very beautiful so my mom let Haley and Kayla take the dogs for a walk, which Kayla has been begging my mom to do ever since we arrived here. Andy is doing very well because he is headed to Kuwait tomorrow and then is suppose to fly to Georgia on Saturday. We will hopefully be able to be together next Sunday, but if not next Monday for sure. Haley and Kayla still do not know he will be coming home. I have been telling them that they need to make posters for Lisa’s (my friend) friend. I hope that they will be surprised. This has been a long year but being around wonderful family and friends and being positive has made it a whole lot easier!
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
What an amazing week this has been. We saw Emily graduate from Marshfield High School. Logan became our family's newest teenager. Lanette had her nearly weekly visit to the Elmhorst family and finally Mom, Logan and I had a wonderful trip to the St Paul Temple. We were accompanied by Sister McSweeney for the temple trip which was extra special.
Today was a day of work around our place. Many of you will remember the unfinished fence around the fruit trees. Well today it was finished! Now the chicken coop has migrated out there which was no small feat. It looks good.
We enjoyed a wonderful dinner and family home evening planning tonight. Grant has encouraged us to make a list of activities to do this summer. We did it last year too but did not get many of the activities done. We hope to do better this year.
The most important news this week is Mom and my anniversary. We have been married 32 years ago as of May 30th. I have been blessed with the best friend I could every dream of. She is my confidant, my advisor, my friend and my encouragement. I hope you know what a wonderful mom you have been blessed with.
Dad
Monday, May 21, 2012
May 20, 2012
It is Logan's birthday this Sunday. Please give him a call or send a card.
Grant's News
May 13, 2012
Grant's work-week was painfully slow. Even Mother's Day, a pretty eventful day in the restaurant business was disappointing. On the upside some of his favorite work buddies, like Goalie, are back from college for the summer and work is a lot more fun with them there. Grant's days off have been spent doing a lot of gardening. Monday he planted willow trees, Wednesday after work he planted ferns, and then on Thursday Mom and him went and hit up Menards and he planted a bunch of new perennials in the garden. He is super excited because his pumpkins and sunflowers started sprouting this week. Grant also finished reading the epic novel Les Miserables this week and is starting on a biography of a woman that was a refugee from Somalia and became a political activist.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
May 20, 2012
This week Stacie returned to work while Kevin enjoyed caring for Henry. Henry had some difficulties with the transition, refusing to eat much on Monday and crying through most of the day. However, by Friday he seemed to be much more adjusted to eating from a bottle and being apart from his mama. Although Stacie missed Henry very much, she is very grateful for the blessing of being employed, especially after receiving news that due to a lack of enrollment Kevin won't have a teaching job over the summer.
After a long week of being apart, Stacie, Kevin and Henry cherished a wonderful weekend. They caught up on lots of cuddling and re-planted their garden (which suffered from an accidental overnight watering). I the evening they went to a baseball game with some friends. It was lots of fun taking Henry out to his first ball game and Kevin really enjoyed watching his favorite sport. Stacie treasured being with her two best friends all day.
Tonight they look forward to watching the solar eclipse from the foothills of the mountain. But don't worry, they won't watch too closely.
May 13, 2012
This week Stacie cherished lots of snuggle time with Henry. She returns to work tomorrow and will be missing him very much. While Kevin was on campus working on finals, Stacie and Henry played at the park and their backyard whenever they could. Since there has been lots of stormy weather in Albuquerque they spent the rest of their time inside cuddling while listening to the severe wind outside. Today Kevin and Henry showered Stacie with love. They picked out some cute new clothes for Henry, a craft store gift card, and beautiful flowers for Stacie. They also made her a delicious dinner ending with chocolate covered strawberries. Needless to say that she feels like a queen.
The Haws Family of Colorado
May 20, 2012
This week Haley had her field day at school and Kayla her end of school celebration. Kayla was sad to leave her teachers Ms. Carrie and Ms. Angelika, but she is excited to move on to Kindergarten next year. I feel like we have been running around all week trying to get things ready for our trip to Utah. Earlier this week Andy received his end of tour awards, and is getting ready to pack up so he can come home. We are all excited because he should be home within the next two weeks!
May 13, 2012
This week seemed to be such a busy week that I don’t remember half of what we did. On Wednesday after Haley had her doctor’s appointment I took them to Coldstone Creamery to get an ice cream. The weather was so beautiful that we decided to eat the ice creams outside. As you can see Kayla very much enjoyed hers. Then they convinced me to let them run though the splash pad by the movie theater. On Friday, Haley was a little sad that her field day had to be rescheduled for Monday because of the weather. I was a little relieved because I had so many things I needed to get caught up on. On Saturday when we went to the commissary the girls were able to take a picture with a big olive and the Egglands Best egg. They thought it was pretty cool. Andy seems to stay busy. We have about 21 more days until he will be home! We are trying to have a surprise homecoming for Haley and Kayla, so they still think he will be coming in July. So please keep it a surprise if you talk to the girls.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
Well it has been a interesting couple of weeks. Mom was hospitalized on May 11th with right sided weakness. I deeply appreciate your prayers including those of you that put Mom's name on the temple rolls of your temple district. Mom stayed for several days including Mother's Day but we are so happy that she came home with no evidence of a stroke. We have enjoyed time together as a family. We celebrated Mom's birthday as a family enjoying a special dinner together at El Mezcal. Last night we had the joy of having Julie and Jeff, Emily, Grant, Lanette, Logan and Mom and me for dinner. It was really nice. Mom joined me for hometeaching two of my very special hometeaching families last night. You have a wonderful Mom.
Logan has been busy with a school play. He did a very good job. He goofed up on one of his lines but I think everyone agrees that it may have been the funniest line of the whole play. Logan and I went camping together at the Eau Pleine flowage on Friday night. On Saturday Logan helped us get the lawn done which was sorely needed.
Lanette has finished her school year. She is very happy and has been making plans for a number of activities. Lanette has mastered the cellphone and the agenda. She will be spending several days this weekend with the Elmhorst and then attend a graduation party.
Emily will be graduating this week from Marshfield High School. She is working two jobs to make ends meet. She is planning to attend the University of Minnesota in one year after she has raised the needed finances. It was fun to have her over on Sunday and to listen to her piano talents once again.
This coming week will be Mom and my 32nd anniversary. It will be wonderful to celebrate such a wonderful experience. I cannot tell you how much it means to me to be married to Mom. She is awesome. She is a friend, a counselor, a confident and the love of my life.
Dad
Grant's News
May 13, 2012
Grant's work-week was painfully slow. Even Mother's Day, a pretty eventful day in the restaurant business was disappointing. On the upside some of his favorite work buddies, like Goalie, are back from college for the summer and work is a lot more fun with them there. Grant's days off have been spent doing a lot of gardening. Monday he planted willow trees, Wednesday after work he planted ferns, and then on Thursday Mom and him went and hit up Menards and he planted a bunch of new perennials in the garden. He is super excited because his pumpkins and sunflowers started sprouting this week. Grant also finished reading the epic novel Les Miserables this week and is starting on a biography of a woman that was a refugee from Somalia and became a political activist.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
May 20, 2012
This week Stacie returned to work while Kevin enjoyed caring for Henry. Henry had some difficulties with the transition, refusing to eat much on Monday and crying through most of the day. However, by Friday he seemed to be much more adjusted to eating from a bottle and being apart from his mama. Although Stacie missed Henry very much, she is very grateful for the blessing of being employed, especially after receiving news that due to a lack of enrollment Kevin won't have a teaching job over the summer.
After a long week of being apart, Stacie, Kevin and Henry cherished a wonderful weekend. They caught up on lots of cuddling and re-planted their garden (which suffered from an accidental overnight watering). I the evening they went to a baseball game with some friends. It was lots of fun taking Henry out to his first ball game and Kevin really enjoyed watching his favorite sport. Stacie treasured being with her two best friends all day.
Tonight they look forward to watching the solar eclipse from the foothills of the mountain. But don't worry, they won't watch too closely.
May 13, 2012
This week Stacie cherished lots of snuggle time with Henry. She returns to work tomorrow and will be missing him very much. While Kevin was on campus working on finals, Stacie and Henry played at the park and their backyard whenever they could. Since there has been lots of stormy weather in Albuquerque they spent the rest of their time inside cuddling while listening to the severe wind outside. Today Kevin and Henry showered Stacie with love. They picked out some cute new clothes for Henry, a craft store gift card, and beautiful flowers for Stacie. They also made her a delicious dinner ending with chocolate covered strawberries. Needless to say that she feels like a queen.
The Haws Family of Colorado
May 20, 2012
This week Haley had her field day at school and Kayla her end of school celebration. Kayla was sad to leave her teachers Ms. Carrie and Ms. Angelika, but she is excited to move on to Kindergarten next year. I feel like we have been running around all week trying to get things ready for our trip to Utah. Earlier this week Andy received his end of tour awards, and is getting ready to pack up so he can come home. We are all excited because he should be home within the next two weeks!
May 13, 2012
This week seemed to be such a busy week that I don’t remember half of what we did. On Wednesday after Haley had her doctor’s appointment I took them to Coldstone Creamery to get an ice cream. The weather was so beautiful that we decided to eat the ice creams outside. As you can see Kayla very much enjoyed hers. Then they convinced me to let them run though the splash pad by the movie theater. On Friday, Haley was a little sad that her field day had to be rescheduled for Monday because of the weather. I was a little relieved because I had so many things I needed to get caught up on. On Saturday when we went to the commissary the girls were able to take a picture with a big olive and the Egglands Best egg. They thought it was pretty cool. Andy seems to stay busy. We have about 21 more days until he will be home! We are trying to have a surprise homecoming for Haley and Kayla, so they still think he will be coming in July. So please keep it a surprise if you talk to the girls.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
Well it has been a interesting couple of weeks. Mom was hospitalized on May 11th with right sided weakness. I deeply appreciate your prayers including those of you that put Mom's name on the temple rolls of your temple district. Mom stayed for several days including Mother's Day but we are so happy that she came home with no evidence of a stroke. We have enjoyed time together as a family. We celebrated Mom's birthday as a family enjoying a special dinner together at El Mezcal. Last night we had the joy of having Julie and Jeff, Emily, Grant, Lanette, Logan and Mom and me for dinner. It was really nice. Mom joined me for hometeaching two of my very special hometeaching families last night. You have a wonderful Mom.
Logan has been busy with a school play. He did a very good job. He goofed up on one of his lines but I think everyone agrees that it may have been the funniest line of the whole play. Logan and I went camping together at the Eau Pleine flowage on Friday night. On Saturday Logan helped us get the lawn done which was sorely needed.
Lanette has finished her school year. She is very happy and has been making plans for a number of activities. Lanette has mastered the cellphone and the agenda. She will be spending several days this weekend with the Elmhorst and then attend a graduation party.
Emily will be graduating this week from Marshfield High School. She is working two jobs to make ends meet. She is planning to attend the University of Minnesota in one year after she has raised the needed finances. It was fun to have her over on Sunday and to listen to her piano talents once again.
This coming week will be Mom and my 32nd anniversary. It will be wonderful to celebrate such a wonderful experience. I cannot tell you how much it means to me to be married to Mom. She is awesome. She is a friend, a counselor, a confident and the love of my life.
Dad
Monday, May 7, 2012
May 7, 2012
This is a month of many birthdays- Andy, Jeff Lane, Haley, Logan and of course Mom, my sweetheart. I hope that everyone will have a wonderful birthday.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
May 6, 2012
It has been a crazy week for the Jackson family. Unfortunately, on Monday Stacie became very ill again. She was prescribed an antibiotic for the infection she developed the week before and, like all antibiotics, it destroyed both the good and the bad bacteria in her body. Her symptoms worsened on Tuesday and Kevin decided to take her into the ER. They were very thankful for a good visiting teacher who was willing to take care of Henry while they were there. She was sent home a few hours later feeling much better.
Stacie spent the rest of her week enjoying lots of time with Henry. Kevin and Stacie took Henry to the pediatrician on Thursday. He weighed in at 11 lbs 7 oz! Afterwards they went out to a great hamburger restaurant and enjoyed a delicious meal. On Saturday Stacie had fun taking Henry to the park while Kevin played at a baptism. In the evening they went to a BBQ cook-off hosted by their Elder's Quorum.
This week was the last week of instruction for Kevin's courses. He has been working diligently on tests, presentations and papers this week, in addition to his grading duties for the courses he teaches. We wish him the best of luck for his exams next week. Kevin looks forward to the time he gets to spend with Henry before his summer course commences.
April 30, 2012
Last Tuesday Kevin and Stacie celebrated Henry's two month birthday. They are always amazed by how quickly he is growing and developing. They'll be going to the pediatrician soon to check on his status. Kevin finally cut off his long locks this past week. On Thursday Kevin, Stacie and Henry took tours around some nearby child care centers. They were thankful to find a lovely place near their chapel. On Friday they went disc golfing with their friends.
On Sunday Stacie enjoyed going to church with Henry for the first time in several weeks. She realized that she should soon become good friends with her new visiting teaching companion who had a baby a week after Henry; they often run into each other in the mother's lounge or in the foyer to comfort heir babies on the same schedule.
On Monday Stacie started to experience some severe side effects to some medication. On Tuesday the symptoms worsened and so she went to the ER for assistance. She was sent home with new medications and she is feeling much better; however, she is still experiencing some pain and discomfort. As it is the end of the semester, Kevin is very busy with school and is unable to help as much as he would like to. Please keep them in your prayers as Stacie continues to recover and as Kevin works extra hard this week to complete his work & help his family. Thank you!
The Haws Family of Colorado
Happy birthday this past week to Andy on Thursday, and to Haley a big 7 on Sunday! This week has been very busy for us, mainly running around. On Monday and Tuesday Kayla played with Emma. Wednesday after I helped in Haley’s class, Kayla and I was able to talk with Andy. Kayla let him know that he was getting really, really old because he turned 31. After talking with Andy, Kayla and I enjoyed playing outside in the beautiful weather. On Friday we surprised Haley by eating lunch outside with her at school. She was excited to give her classmates popsicles for her birthday treat. On Saturday I let Haley open up her birthday presents and eat her cake a day early, which she did not oppose. Later that morning we went to see Kayla’s water painting in the art fair at school. Her picture is the one right above her head. On Sunday Haley was very happy that she was able to give a talk in primary on her birthday. Her favorite gift that she received on her birthday was to be able to talk with her daddy twice! Andy is working nonstop, and is ready for his replacements. We are very excited because he will be making his way back to the states in a few weeks!
From Andy:
Dad,
It was great to hear from you, thank you for the email. Things have been going great out here, but I am so ready to re-deploy back home to Melanie and the girls. I am not sure if Melanie told you that GEN Dempsey stopped by and visited us out here(I attached a picture)? As well as, I will be receiving the HONORABLE SAINT CHRISTOPHER Award (I attached a copy of what it looks like)? Then additional I was selected for promotion to Sergeant First Class (SFC/E-7), which is great because I was in a secondary zone (harder to get selected in), with only 9 years time in service which most people do not get picked up for E7 till about 15-18 years.
Things have been going great as far as work, I really do enjoy my job out here, I think that this is the first job that I have ever done that I felt like I have been able to make some major impacts (positive) to an entire Combat Operations. I will have to tell you more of what I have been able to do when I get home, but it has really been a great deployment. That and I have not yet had to fire my weapon at people or have been blown up, like I have in my prior deployments; so that is an added plus. I am excited to get to be coming up to visit you and mom shortly after I redeploy. I think that will be fun going out to Nauvoo and spending time as a family. Well dad thank you again for everything. I love you.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
I have not given you an update on our lives for the last two weeks. I was in Boston last week and did not post anything to the blog. Thank you Stacie for your contributions to the blog both weeks.
For Logan it has been a fun couple of weeks. He along with his friend Audry submitted a project to the school art and science fair. It was a replica of the Washington monument and part of the Washington Mall. It was pretty cool because as soon as you walked into the gym area you saw this huge white pillar towering over everything else. It was the landmark for the entire fair. It turned out great. Logan has made remarkable progress in his grades this last quarter but was disappointed not to be selected for the honors math program. He seems much more focused on doing well in school which makes Mom and me very happy. He has played in a soccer tournament this last Saturday after staying up all night for a school shut in. Needless to say it was probably not his best games ever played.
Emily has continued her soccer season. They are a great team but not with the record anyone one on the team would like. She will have two away games this week and a tournament out of town this weekend. I had the opportunity of going with her to the Solo & Ensemble State event this weekend in Stevens Point. Emily did exceptionally well including her solo. The judge told her that he had been a music teacher for 45 years and he had never heard a high school student play her selection better. I agreed with him despite my strong biases.
Lanette enjoyed the annual Elmhorst pancake breakfast in Neillsville. She had a great time and came home with some interesting stories. She is looking forward to school being out this coming week on May 18th. She continues to arrange visits to people in our branch. She loves to visit the Weiers and the Elmhorst with occasion visits to the McElderry family.
Mom has been keeping our family going with taxi driving and nurturing and loving each one of us by addressing our individual needs. She has been recovering from her relatively recent back surgery and I can tell she is particularly sore after a busy day of physical therapy.
I had the wonderful opportunity of traveling to Boston. It was for a convention called the Pediatric Academic Society which is the big meeting for us pediatric nephrologists. I met up with a number of colleagues and it was fun and stimulating. My greatest privilege was going to the Boston Temple. I rode in a taxi with a gentleman from the former Soviet Union. We had a delightful discussion about the gospel. In the temple I was impressed by the beauty and spirit there. After performing an endowment for one of our ancestors I walked out of the Celestial Room. I was greeted by a temple worker that looked to my eye just like President Monson. It was an amazing similarity. I felt this sudden overwhelming feeling of love exude from this man. He came up to me and asked if I would help with sealings. Of course I said "yes". It was an amazing sealing season. I felt a deep and wonderful spirit that evening and realized in new dimensions the power of the temple sealing. I came out of the temple a renewed man. I encourage each of you to go to the temple and do the work for our ancestors. They are anxious to help us as we make possible their eternal progression in a small but extremely critical way.
Well, Jeff is back with his family and things are going well. We hope that they will be in the States by this summer. Julie and Jeff celebrated Jeff Lane's birth last week with a special dinner at Royal Tokyo. His actual birthday is today, May 7th. They are getting into the swing of things here and Alex is adorable.
Grant is busy planting and replanting trees and bushes in our yard and it is really looking great. His work has varied from too slow to too fast. He is off tomorrow for a well deserved day of rest. He continues to enjoy the marsh next to our home, the yard and of course, teasing his sister, Lanette.
Love,
Dad
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
May 6, 2012
It has been a crazy week for the Jackson family. Unfortunately, on Monday Stacie became very ill again. She was prescribed an antibiotic for the infection she developed the week before and, like all antibiotics, it destroyed both the good and the bad bacteria in her body. Her symptoms worsened on Tuesday and Kevin decided to take her into the ER. They were very thankful for a good visiting teacher who was willing to take care of Henry while they were there. She was sent home a few hours later feeling much better.
Stacie spent the rest of her week enjoying lots of time with Henry. Kevin and Stacie took Henry to the pediatrician on Thursday. He weighed in at 11 lbs 7 oz! Afterwards they went out to a great hamburger restaurant and enjoyed a delicious meal. On Saturday Stacie had fun taking Henry to the park while Kevin played at a baptism. In the evening they went to a BBQ cook-off hosted by their Elder's Quorum.
This week was the last week of instruction for Kevin's courses. He has been working diligently on tests, presentations and papers this week, in addition to his grading duties for the courses he teaches. We wish him the best of luck for his exams next week. Kevin looks forward to the time he gets to spend with Henry before his summer course commences.
April 30, 2012
Last Tuesday Kevin and Stacie celebrated Henry's two month birthday. They are always amazed by how quickly he is growing and developing. They'll be going to the pediatrician soon to check on his status. Kevin finally cut off his long locks this past week. On Thursday Kevin, Stacie and Henry took tours around some nearby child care centers. They were thankful to find a lovely place near their chapel. On Friday they went disc golfing with their friends.
On Sunday Stacie enjoyed going to church with Henry for the first time in several weeks. She realized that she should soon become good friends with her new visiting teaching companion who had a baby a week after Henry; they often run into each other in the mother's lounge or in the foyer to comfort heir babies on the same schedule.
On Monday Stacie started to experience some severe side effects to some medication. On Tuesday the symptoms worsened and so she went to the ER for assistance. She was sent home with new medications and she is feeling much better; however, she is still experiencing some pain and discomfort. As it is the end of the semester, Kevin is very busy with school and is unable to help as much as he would like to. Please keep them in your prayers as Stacie continues to recover and as Kevin works extra hard this week to complete his work & help his family. Thank you!
The Haws Family of Colorado
Happy birthday this past week to Andy on Thursday, and to Haley a big 7 on Sunday! This week has been very busy for us, mainly running around. On Monday and Tuesday Kayla played with Emma. Wednesday after I helped in Haley’s class, Kayla and I was able to talk with Andy. Kayla let him know that he was getting really, really old because he turned 31. After talking with Andy, Kayla and I enjoyed playing outside in the beautiful weather. On Friday we surprised Haley by eating lunch outside with her at school. She was excited to give her classmates popsicles for her birthday treat. On Saturday I let Haley open up her birthday presents and eat her cake a day early, which she did not oppose. Later that morning we went to see Kayla’s water painting in the art fair at school. Her picture is the one right above her head. On Sunday Haley was very happy that she was able to give a talk in primary on her birthday. Her favorite gift that she received on her birthday was to be able to talk with her daddy twice! Andy is working nonstop, and is ready for his replacements. We are very excited because he will be making his way back to the states in a few weeks!
From Andy:
Dad,
It was great to hear from you, thank you for the email. Things have been going great out here, but I am so ready to re-deploy back home to Melanie and the girls. I am not sure if Melanie told you that GEN Dempsey stopped by and visited us out here(I attached a picture)? As well as, I will be receiving the HONORABLE SAINT CHRISTOPHER Award (I attached a copy of what it looks like)? Then additional I was selected for promotion to Sergeant First Class (SFC/E-7), which is great because I was in a secondary zone (harder to get selected in), with only 9 years time in service which most people do not get picked up for E7 till about 15-18 years.
Things have been going great as far as work, I really do enjoy my job out here, I think that this is the first job that I have ever done that I felt like I have been able to make some major impacts (positive) to an entire Combat Operations. I will have to tell you more of what I have been able to do when I get home, but it has really been a great deployment. That and I have not yet had to fire my weapon at people or have been blown up, like I have in my prior deployments; so that is an added plus. I am excited to get to be coming up to visit you and mom shortly after I redeploy. I think that will be fun going out to Nauvoo and spending time as a family. Well dad thank you again for everything. I love you.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
I have not given you an update on our lives for the last two weeks. I was in Boston last week and did not post anything to the blog. Thank you Stacie for your contributions to the blog both weeks.
For Logan it has been a fun couple of weeks. He along with his friend Audry submitted a project to the school art and science fair. It was a replica of the Washington monument and part of the Washington Mall. It was pretty cool because as soon as you walked into the gym area you saw this huge white pillar towering over everything else. It was the landmark for the entire fair. It turned out great. Logan has made remarkable progress in his grades this last quarter but was disappointed not to be selected for the honors math program. He seems much more focused on doing well in school which makes Mom and me very happy. He has played in a soccer tournament this last Saturday after staying up all night for a school shut in. Needless to say it was probably not his best games ever played.
Emily has continued her soccer season. They are a great team but not with the record anyone one on the team would like. She will have two away games this week and a tournament out of town this weekend. I had the opportunity of going with her to the Solo & Ensemble State event this weekend in Stevens Point. Emily did exceptionally well including her solo. The judge told her that he had been a music teacher for 45 years and he had never heard a high school student play her selection better. I agreed with him despite my strong biases.
Lanette enjoyed the annual Elmhorst pancake breakfast in Neillsville. She had a great time and came home with some interesting stories. She is looking forward to school being out this coming week on May 18th. She continues to arrange visits to people in our branch. She loves to visit the Weiers and the Elmhorst with occasion visits to the McElderry family.
Mom has been keeping our family going with taxi driving and nurturing and loving each one of us by addressing our individual needs. She has been recovering from her relatively recent back surgery and I can tell she is particularly sore after a busy day of physical therapy.
I had the wonderful opportunity of traveling to Boston. It was for a convention called the Pediatric Academic Society which is the big meeting for us pediatric nephrologists. I met up with a number of colleagues and it was fun and stimulating. My greatest privilege was going to the Boston Temple. I rode in a taxi with a gentleman from the former Soviet Union. We had a delightful discussion about the gospel. In the temple I was impressed by the beauty and spirit there. After performing an endowment for one of our ancestors I walked out of the Celestial Room. I was greeted by a temple worker that looked to my eye just like President Monson. It was an amazing similarity. I felt this sudden overwhelming feeling of love exude from this man. He came up to me and asked if I would help with sealings. Of course I said "yes". It was an amazing sealing season. I felt a deep and wonderful spirit that evening and realized in new dimensions the power of the temple sealing. I came out of the temple a renewed man. I encourage each of you to go to the temple and do the work for our ancestors. They are anxious to help us as we make possible their eternal progression in a small but extremely critical way.
Well, Jeff is back with his family and things are going well. We hope that they will be in the States by this summer. Julie and Jeff celebrated Jeff Lane's birth last week with a special dinner at Royal Tokyo. His actual birthday is today, May 7th. They are getting into the swing of things here and Alex is adorable.
Grant is busy planting and replanting trees and bushes in our yard and it is really looking great. His work has varied from too slow to too fast. He is off tomorrow for a well deserved day of rest. He continues to enjoy the marsh next to our home, the yard and of course, teasing his sister, Lanette.
Love,
Dad
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