Grant's News
It has been a pretty quiet week for Grant. There is always a transition time at the restaurant when school starts and suddenly it gets very slow. One day of being slow is fine, but after a week or two Grant goes a little insane. During his time off this week Grant worked on the flowerbeds, pruning things back and getting it ready for planting bulbs this coming week.
News from the Jackson's
I apologize that I haven't provided an update for some time. We are down to one computer and it is also on its last legs. We'll do our best to continue to provide updates. Here is what happened to the Jackson Clan this week:
Last Sunday Stacie and Kevin gave talks in Church on the Atonement and finding peace. After church they invited their friends Jimmy, Terry, Nick and Veronica over fr dinner. Jimmy and Terry are two men from their ward with some mental disabilities, who love to sing hymns and eat enchiladas. They did both.
Last week Kevin witnessed their car suffer through a hit and run while parked in the parking lot by the bus stop. He was able to take it in to the body shop this week and get a rental for a few days. The car was fixed more quickly than anticipated and is back at the Jackson's home, looking much better.
On Saturday Stacie took Henry to his first swimming lesson. He did a wonderful job! They look forward to four more weeks of fun lessons. Afterwards, Kevin, Stacie and Henry went on a nice walk. The temperature has dropped in Albuquerque and they are enjoying the beginning of Autumn. On their walk they saw a coyote, a hummingbird, an inch worm, lots of lizards, lots of dogs, a roadrunner, and a very scary spider. Unfortunately, the spider was on their front door. In the evening they grilled some sausages and enjoyed being together.
This upcoming week Kevin will continue to search for school's to apply to for his doctoral degree. Stacie will try to keep her head above water at work and Henry will get some extra play time on Friday at day care as they have their monthly Parent's Night Out event. Stacie and Kevin are looking forward to their date night.
News from Home
This week we learned the sad news that Jeff Lane's job will be closed down here in Central Wisconsin. That makes it likely that Julie and Jeff will be moving in the new future. We don't know where life will take them but it has been delightful to have them so close for a while. As part of that time together we were able to have family picnic at the Big Eau Pleine Flowage this last Saturday. It was really beautiful. We arrived just before sunset and enjoyed the fall colors, the cool breeze and good company.
We have enjoyed a wonderful garden season and are counter space is filled with cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, peaches, cantaloupe, peppers and much more. Some items we were given, some we bought at the farmer's market and some at the store but the most wonderful blessings have come from our own garden. It has been really wonderful. I must brag that this has been my very best garden ever. Mom did put up lots of canned tomatoes and we are in better shape for the coming winter.
Logan and I have worked on insulating his chicken coop while at the same time the chickens have been very stingy with the eggs.
We have rejoiced in the news that Andy and Melanie spent last Saturday in the Manti Temple. We are delighted with the news that Jeff and Renata are getting closer to completing their documents. Emily and Trent's wedding date is coming soon.
We love you and wish you the best this coming week.
Dad
Monday, September 17, 2012
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Update from Melanie and Andy
September 9, 2012
These past two weeks have been very bitter sweet for us. I was able to spend some time with my dear friend Lisa and her family at the parade in Fountain on Monday. The rest of the week Andy and I were trying to pack and prepare for our movers to come on Tuesday. We have been also able to enjoy some quality time together. Haley and Kayla had a fun time playing with their friend on Saturday. On Sunday it was very emotional because it was the last time being in our ward at church and my last time teaching my Sunday school class. It made me feel better to know that my class really enjoyed my teaching and asked if we could Skype on Sunday’s so I can teach them from Alaska. It was hard to say goodbye to many people from church, but I am very grateful that we were able to live here, meet and become good friends with those Brothers and Sisters from church. I know that the Lord puts us in the places that we need to be either to touch someone’s life or for our life to be touched by them. We have been very blessed to be in this ward and will truly miss it.
These past two weeks have been very bitter sweet for us. I was able to spend some time with my dear friend Lisa and her family at the parade in Fountain on Monday. The rest of the week Andy and I were trying to pack and prepare for our movers to come on Tuesday. We have been also able to enjoy some quality time together. Haley and Kayla had a fun time playing with their friend on Saturday. On Sunday it was very emotional because it was the last time being in our ward at church and my last time teaching my Sunday school class. It made me feel better to know that my class really enjoyed my teaching and asked if we could Skype on Sunday’s so I can teach them from Alaska. It was hard to say goodbye to many people from church, but I am very grateful that we were able to live here, meet and become good friends with those Brothers and Sisters from church. I know that the Lord puts us in the places that we need to be either to touch someone’s life or for our life to be touched by them. We have been very blessed to be in this ward and will truly miss it.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
September 9, 2012
Grant's News
August 26th Entry
This week Grant had a bit more than expected time off due to some scheduling issues at work. And he used it to catch up on some reading and savor the last bits of summer. He ended up reading Julius Caesar, The Audacity of Hope by President Obama, and finally, half of a Princess Diana biography...which has involved a lot of crying. The most traumatic thing that happened this week was when Lanette asked Mom "Why can't Grant just be normal?" Apparently, Lanette meant a different Grant... likely story. Grantis looking forward to this final week of summer and reminds the kids daily of how many days until school starts.
August 19th Entry
This week has been a bumpy one at work. Some days the restaurant is hopping, the next day it is dead. So Grant goes in each day not even knowing what to expect. He is looking forward to school starting because that seems to add some predictability to work and what is going on. On his day off this week Grant worked on dividing some of the perennials in the garden and transplanting them to other areas. On Friday, somehow Grant wasn't working, and he ended up watching the movie Flight 93 with Lanette... which was a difficult movie to describe to her since it jumps from scene to scene pretty rapidly.
The Colorado Haws Family
This is the last blog update as the Colorado Haws Family!
August 26th Entry
These past two weeks have been filled with excitement and blessings. First, Haley started 2nd grade and Kayla started Kindergarten which they were both very excited for, especially because Kayla was with her friends Becca and Emma. Last Monday I was able to spend the day with Andy while he cleared post. While clearing we received a call from the housing office on Fort Wainwright offering us a house in the Junior NCO housing area to stay in. Of course we accepted it and signed the acceptance letter. On Friday however Andy made the SFC (E-7) list for September which was very exciting news, but it made it so we wouldn’t be able to have the house that we accepted. I ended up calling the housing office and as a result of a lot of prayer and faith and having the housing office talk to their supervisor we were able to still keep the house that we were offered. One of the best parts of having that house is we will already know one of the neighbors who I have been corresponding with that will also be in the same ward at church. Another blessing this week is we have been able to sell the things that we needed to prior to moving to Alaska. With both Haley and Kayla in school, Andy and I have been able to go on many lunch dates and just spend time together, which has been long overdue with all of the deployments.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
I have really fallen behind in updating the family blog. We have passed Jeff's 30th birthday and Emily's 19th birthday. We have had campouts, visits to New Mexico, garden's producing all sorts of food and many good memories.
Highlights of the weeks include the following:
School started!!! Grant, Mom, Logan and Lanette were all happy to get back into the more usual pattern of life. This is Lanette's last year in high school and Logan's last year in middle school. Logan will be attending Columbus Catholic School. He has some good friends there. The Saturday before school started he joined with about 6 friends to go canoeing. They had a great time.
Mom's trip to see Henry. That was really great. Henry is very cute and Nana had to go for a visit. Pictures of Henry will be on the flickr account for you to view. Stacie and Kevin were great hosts to Mom. They enjoyed a trip to Tucano's for a great meal. Mom enjoyed every minute of time with Henry while Stacie and Kevin had a chance for a date.
Boy Scouts- Logan and I went on an awesome trip to the Porcupine Mountains along the coast of Lake Superior. We did a 6 or 7 mile hike through some beautiful trails that ran along side two different mountain lakes along with wetlands and forests. Logan received today in a court of honor both his Star and Life Advancement as well as 4 merit badges. Pretty awesome.
Temple opportunities. Logan, Mom and Lanette along with Jeff and Julie were able to attend the St Paul Temple and do temple work on Saturday. I was privileged to watch Alex. It was a great day. Earlier in August I was able to go and do initiatories. We have lots of temple work to do so please contact me if you can help.
Canning. We have had a bumper crop of tomatoes along wtih cabbage, carrots, brussel sprouts (yet to be harvested) and squash. Mom and I have canned quite a bit and have more to go.
Well, I hope that you will enjoy this new update. I would love to hear from you.
Love,
Dad
August 26th Entry
This week Grant had a bit more than expected time off due to some scheduling issues at work. And he used it to catch up on some reading and savor the last bits of summer. He ended up reading Julius Caesar, The Audacity of Hope by President Obama, and finally, half of a Princess Diana biography...which has involved a lot of crying. The most traumatic thing that happened this week was when Lanette asked Mom "Why can't Grant just be normal?" Apparently, Lanette meant a different Grant... likely story. Grantis looking forward to this final week of summer and reminds the kids daily of how many days until school starts.
August 19th Entry
This week has been a bumpy one at work. Some days the restaurant is hopping, the next day it is dead. So Grant goes in each day not even knowing what to expect. He is looking forward to school starting because that seems to add some predictability to work and what is going on. On his day off this week Grant worked on dividing some of the perennials in the garden and transplanting them to other areas. On Friday, somehow Grant wasn't working, and he ended up watching the movie Flight 93 with Lanette... which was a difficult movie to describe to her since it jumps from scene to scene pretty rapidly.
The Colorado Haws Family
This is the last blog update as the Colorado Haws Family!
August 26th Entry
These past two weeks have been filled with excitement and blessings. First, Haley started 2nd grade and Kayla started Kindergarten which they were both very excited for, especially because Kayla was with her friends Becca and Emma. Last Monday I was able to spend the day with Andy while he cleared post. While clearing we received a call from the housing office on Fort Wainwright offering us a house in the Junior NCO housing area to stay in. Of course we accepted it and signed the acceptance letter. On Friday however Andy made the SFC (E-7) list for September which was very exciting news, but it made it so we wouldn’t be able to have the house that we accepted. I ended up calling the housing office and as a result of a lot of prayer and faith and having the housing office talk to their supervisor we were able to still keep the house that we were offered. One of the best parts of having that house is we will already know one of the neighbors who I have been corresponding with that will also be in the same ward at church. Another blessing this week is we have been able to sell the things that we needed to prior to moving to Alaska. With both Haley and Kayla in school, Andy and I have been able to go on many lunch dates and just spend time together, which has been long overdue with all of the deployments.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
I have really fallen behind in updating the family blog. We have passed Jeff's 30th birthday and Emily's 19th birthday. We have had campouts, visits to New Mexico, garden's producing all sorts of food and many good memories.
Highlights of the weeks include the following:
School started!!! Grant, Mom, Logan and Lanette were all happy to get back into the more usual pattern of life. This is Lanette's last year in high school and Logan's last year in middle school. Logan will be attending Columbus Catholic School. He has some good friends there. The Saturday before school started he joined with about 6 friends to go canoeing. They had a great time.
Mom's trip to see Henry. That was really great. Henry is very cute and Nana had to go for a visit. Pictures of Henry will be on the flickr account for you to view. Stacie and Kevin were great hosts to Mom. They enjoyed a trip to Tucano's for a great meal. Mom enjoyed every minute of time with Henry while Stacie and Kevin had a chance for a date.
Boy Scouts- Logan and I went on an awesome trip to the Porcupine Mountains along the coast of Lake Superior. We did a 6 or 7 mile hike through some beautiful trails that ran along side two different mountain lakes along with wetlands and forests. Logan received today in a court of honor both his Star and Life Advancement as well as 4 merit badges. Pretty awesome.
Temple opportunities. Logan, Mom and Lanette along with Jeff and Julie were able to attend the St Paul Temple and do temple work on Saturday. I was privileged to watch Alex. It was a great day. Earlier in August I was able to go and do initiatories. We have lots of temple work to do so please contact me if you can help.
Canning. We have had a bumper crop of tomatoes along wtih cabbage, carrots, brussel sprouts (yet to be harvested) and squash. Mom and I have canned quite a bit and have more to go.
Well, I hope that you will enjoy this new update. I would love to hear from you.
Love,
Dad
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
August 15, 2012
Sorry for the lack of updates on our family blog. I hope that you will enjoy the news.
The Colorado Haws Family
August 12, 2012
This week has seemed to fly by for all of us. On Monday Andy and I were able to set up transportation and then have a date night while Vanesa watched the girls for us. On Tuesday Vanesa and I took the kids shopping at the mall. I took the kids to the play place while Vanesa enjoyed peace and quiet while talking to the sales person at the cell phone company. On Wednesday we took all of the kids to the park and then out for some ice cream, which kind of ended up being their lunch (very healthy I know!) We then adventured off to the commissary with 8 extra hands wanting to get things off the shelves. Luckily nothing ended up broken or ripped opened while shopping. On Thursday we were sad to see Vanesa, Wyatt and Luke leave. Both Haley and Kayla cried for a good hour. They started to cheer up when their friend Sydney came to play. Haley was so excited because Thursday afternoon Andy was able to pull out her loose tooth! I think Andy was kind of excited also because that was the first time he was able to do something like that for Haley. Friday was cleaning day for us, especially going though Andy’s military gear so he can turn it in next week. Saturday was another cleaning and de-clutter day for us. Sunday Kayla gave the scripture and prayer in primary at church which she said she did really good. We also enjoyed having Brother Stewart come over for home teaching.
August 5, 2012
This past week we were very grateful to finally receive the amended orders to go to Alaska. Now we can try to get transportation set up and other tasks accomplished for our move. On Thursday and Friday I took Haley and Kayla to two different end-of-summer parties at two different libraries where they were able to have fun doing activities and eat ice cream. Haley and Kayla were very excited to have their cousins and aunt come for a visit. On Saturday we all went to the zoo. It was a very good day to go because the temperature was 70 degrees with a good breeze. Later that night Vanesa had to take Wyatt to the ER because one of his blisters became infected. On Sunday we all enjoyed the day at church.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
August 5, 2012
Stacie's work has become increasingly busy and crazy this week (making her even more grateful she took that week off to play with Grant and the Hirzes), with lots of changes in administrative staff. However, for the first time in six months she has a supervisor, for which she is grateful. Kevin has been enjoying his last few weeks at home with Henry. This upcoming week will be his last week of vacation until work and school start up. While together, the Jacksons have enjoyed watching the Olympics, making a birthday cake for Harry Potter, and playing with Henry. On Saturday, Stacie tripped and fell while holding Henry. Thankfully both of them are fine, though a little traumatized.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
We have enjoyed some great opportunities since my last addition to the family blog.
In late July and early August Logan and I went to Camp Freeland Leslie for our annual scout summer camp. It was the LDS encampment and we had scouts from all over Wisconsin and Illinois. Elder Gibson of the General Young Men's Presidency attended the camp which was terrific. Logan completed 3 merit badges and partially completed 3 other merit badges. On Sunday he met the Scout Board of Review and earned his Life Rank. That is a huge milestone for a 13 year-old boy.
Lanette of course enjoyed some time with the Elmhorst family and will be having an opportunity to spend time with Julie, Jeff and Alex later this month. She has been attending a program that is a combined daycare for older adults and children. Lanette really loves being with older adults just as much as with little children. She loves talking with them and laughing together.
Emily was able to join us for dinner last Sunday. She is working on her wedding plans but the big challenge for her right now is finding the right dress.
Mom will be making a special visit out to see Stacie, Kevin and Henry in the near future. We wish so much that we could spend time with all of you. She has had the opportunity to spend time with Alex while Julie and Jeff did some activities. She has been getting a lot of her things organized that she inherited from Grandma Stewart. One of these days her craft room will be just right.
I have been having fun with scouts and look forward to an upcoming activity in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We will be hiking on the coast of Lake Superior. I have been busier that usual at work which is really nice. Mom and I will be going to the temple this week which I greatly look forward to.
For news from our family-
Jeff and his family are coming closer to being able to come to the USA. We are very excited. Felipe was able to participate as a player in a celebrity soccer game that was held in Angra. Apparently one of the celebrities was unable to attend so Felipe was recruited.
Jeff and Julie are making progress in getting the Lane's home up and ready for sell. Hopefully that goes smoothly. Alex is crawling and playing and doing all the things a healthy little boy should do.
Grant keeps working hard. Tips go up and down. He has witnessed the tip differential between a pregnant server and a male server. He is trying to figure out how to level the playing field.
The Colorado Haws Family
August 12, 2012
This week has seemed to fly by for all of us. On Monday Andy and I were able to set up transportation and then have a date night while Vanesa watched the girls for us. On Tuesday Vanesa and I took the kids shopping at the mall. I took the kids to the play place while Vanesa enjoyed peace and quiet while talking to the sales person at the cell phone company. On Wednesday we took all of the kids to the park and then out for some ice cream, which kind of ended up being their lunch (very healthy I know!) We then adventured off to the commissary with 8 extra hands wanting to get things off the shelves. Luckily nothing ended up broken or ripped opened while shopping. On Thursday we were sad to see Vanesa, Wyatt and Luke leave. Both Haley and Kayla cried for a good hour. They started to cheer up when their friend Sydney came to play. Haley was so excited because Thursday afternoon Andy was able to pull out her loose tooth! I think Andy was kind of excited also because that was the first time he was able to do something like that for Haley. Friday was cleaning day for us, especially going though Andy’s military gear so he can turn it in next week. Saturday was another cleaning and de-clutter day for us. Sunday Kayla gave the scripture and prayer in primary at church which she said she did really good. We also enjoyed having Brother Stewart come over for home teaching.
August 5, 2012
This past week we were very grateful to finally receive the amended orders to go to Alaska. Now we can try to get transportation set up and other tasks accomplished for our move. On Thursday and Friday I took Haley and Kayla to two different end-of-summer parties at two different libraries where they were able to have fun doing activities and eat ice cream. Haley and Kayla were very excited to have their cousins and aunt come for a visit. On Saturday we all went to the zoo. It was a very good day to go because the temperature was 70 degrees with a good breeze. Later that night Vanesa had to take Wyatt to the ER because one of his blisters became infected. On Sunday we all enjoyed the day at church.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
August 5, 2012
Stacie's work has become increasingly busy and crazy this week (making her even more grateful she took that week off to play with Grant and the Hirzes), with lots of changes in administrative staff. However, for the first time in six months she has a supervisor, for which she is grateful. Kevin has been enjoying his last few weeks at home with Henry. This upcoming week will be his last week of vacation until work and school start up. While together, the Jacksons have enjoyed watching the Olympics, making a birthday cake for Harry Potter, and playing with Henry. On Saturday, Stacie tripped and fell while holding Henry. Thankfully both of them are fine, though a little traumatized.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
We have enjoyed some great opportunities since my last addition to the family blog.
In late July and early August Logan and I went to Camp Freeland Leslie for our annual scout summer camp. It was the LDS encampment and we had scouts from all over Wisconsin and Illinois. Elder Gibson of the General Young Men's Presidency attended the camp which was terrific. Logan completed 3 merit badges and partially completed 3 other merit badges. On Sunday he met the Scout Board of Review and earned his Life Rank. That is a huge milestone for a 13 year-old boy.
Lanette of course enjoyed some time with the Elmhorst family and will be having an opportunity to spend time with Julie, Jeff and Alex later this month. She has been attending a program that is a combined daycare for older adults and children. Lanette really loves being with older adults just as much as with little children. She loves talking with them and laughing together.
Emily was able to join us for dinner last Sunday. She is working on her wedding plans but the big challenge for her right now is finding the right dress.
Mom will be making a special visit out to see Stacie, Kevin and Henry in the near future. We wish so much that we could spend time with all of you. She has had the opportunity to spend time with Alex while Julie and Jeff did some activities. She has been getting a lot of her things organized that she inherited from Grandma Stewart. One of these days her craft room will be just right.
I have been having fun with scouts and look forward to an upcoming activity in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We will be hiking on the coast of Lake Superior. I have been busier that usual at work which is really nice. Mom and I will be going to the temple this week which I greatly look forward to.
For news from our family-
Jeff and his family are coming closer to being able to come to the USA. We are very excited. Felipe was able to participate as a player in a celebrity soccer game that was held in Angra. Apparently one of the celebrities was unable to attend so Felipe was recruited.
Jeff and Julie are making progress in getting the Lane's home up and ready for sell. Hopefully that goes smoothly. Alex is crawling and playing and doing all the things a healthy little boy should do.
Grant keeps working hard. Tips go up and down. He has witnessed the tip differential between a pregnant server and a male server. He is trying to figure out how to level the playing field.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
July 29, 2012
Grant's News
Grant had a great ten days with Stacie, Kevin, Henry, Brent, Claire, and Carolyn in Albuquerque. The trip included adventures to the zoo, a baseball game, Santa Fe, and lots of time playing with the two babies. He was very grateful to spend so much time with such awesome people. Grant flew back early Saturday morning and has been spending the weekend resting before he heads back to work on Monday.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
From July 22nd- late entry
Stacie, Kevin and Henry are giddy with excitement about having Grant and the Hirzes arrive this upcoming week. Work has been increasingly stressful for Stacie, so she especially looks forward to taking a week off to spend time with people she loves. This past week the Jackson's enjoyed eating lots of apricots falling from their neighbor's tree. They recently purchased a Bumbo seat to help strengthen Henry's back and they were glad when it finally arrived. Henry isn't thrilled about it, but he'll warm up to it eventually. Henry still has a cough, but it looks like he is close to recovering.
From July 29th
The Jacksons enjoyed a wonderful week with Grant and the Hirzes. In between trips to the zoo and Santa Fe, they enjoyed playing games, talking, and laughing together. Also, while together both babies reached milestones; Claire Hirz turned 6 months old and Henry turned 5 months old. On Wednesday they were all sorry to say goodbye to the Hirzes, but grateful to continue enjoying time with Grant.
On Thursday they introduced Henry to his first solid- avocado. Henry loved it and kept reaching for more. Stacie and Kevin are excited to help him discover new foods. They also enjoyed a trip with Grant to the Bosque (forest) by the Rio Grande. Then on Friday they took Henry to get professional pictures taken at the mall. It'll be a few weeks until they can share the pictures, but they guarantee that Henry looks very cute.
Kevin and Stacie were sad to say goodbye to Grant on Saturday, but were very thankful for the wonderful time they spent together. They are now counting down until the grandparents can come visit! In the meantime enjoy the many, many pictures that they have shared.
The Colorado Haws Family
These past few weeks have been very busy for us. We had a couple of birthday’s that we went to and finished off the girls swimming lessons. We also have been trying to get things taking care of for our move to Alaska…right now it seems to be at a stop until we get the official orders so we can set up transportation. Despite all of the stress from moving we had a wonderful week. We were able to enjoy some time with Andy’s family in Nauvoo, IL (a church history site). It was very peaceful to be in that area. We learned more about what the saints had to go through, and how they built the beautiful Nauvoo temple and then were driven out by the angry mobs and again had to leave everything that they had to head west after the Prophet Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith was martyred in Carthage, IL. Being in Nauvoo had made me very grateful for those before me who kept the faith and never gave up even with all the hardships that they had to face.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
Lanette had an absolutely great time this last week. She stayed at the Elmhorst family and did all sorts of fun things. She treated them to dinner at A & W. She learned that "Celestial Seasonings Sleepy Time Tea" was really good. Grant has had a great time teasing her about the tea. She enjoyed meeting new people, attending a birthday party, watched movies and all sorts of other things.
Logan, Mom and I had an absolutely wonderful time in Nauvoo. We met up with Julie, Jeff & Alex along with Andy, Melanie, Haley and Kayla in Ft Madison on Friday night. Before we arrived they had a great time swimming. On Saturday we moved into our cabin in Nauvoo. Julie, Jeff, Logan and me were privileged to do baptisms for the dead. Jeff did the baptisms and I helped with confirmations. We were able to do the work for a number of our ancestors. That evening we were able to attend the pageant. It was amazing.
On Sunday we attended church and later enjoyed dinner together. Julie, Jeff and Alex had to take off to return to Wisconsin. The rest of us went to Carthage and enjoyed a really great musical "fireside" called "And the story goes on..." The performers were excellent and I could picture many of you as performers in such an exhilarating performance.
On Monday Melanie and Mom enjoyed temple service while we got ready and later joined them in fun activities in Nauvoo including a horse drawn wagon ride through Old Nauvoo. We had fun at the Browning Gun shop, the brickyard and the a midday children's play. That evening we traveled to Carthage and toured the Carthage Jail and then ate pizza together.
Tuesday included an opportunity to ride a horse drawn carriage ride around the perimeter of Old Nauvoo. The narrator was a spirit filled wonderful senior missionary. We were all touched by his testimony. Later we went to the Blacksmith shop and toured the stores of modern day Nauvoo. That evening we watched a play then headed home to our cabin after a terrific meal together at a Mexican restaurant.
That evening I thought a great deal about the meaning of family. I considered the individuals in our own family tree that had waited so long to have the sealing work done. I had in my possession the sealing card for a couple that was dated back to my research work in Higley, Arizona. I knew that they wanted to be sealed as an eternal family. That feeling propelled Mom and I to go to the temple again on Wednesday morning to do the sealing for some of our ancestors. The temple was an amazing place and was the crowning jewel of Nauvoo. I surely appreciate your help in getting this work done for our ancestors. I feel a constant drive to do more for the salvation of our ancestors. Thank you for your help.
After leaving the temple, Mom, Logan and I did a couple of more things and headed home. We had a few missed roads and ended up in Marshfield after Melanie and Andy and the girls were home.
We enjoyed having Emily over for a night. She is working very hard. Logan and I enjoyed lunch at her restaurant on Saturday. Today we enjoyed dinner with Julie, Jeff and Alex.
Love,
Dad
Grant had a great ten days with Stacie, Kevin, Henry, Brent, Claire, and Carolyn in Albuquerque. The trip included adventures to the zoo, a baseball game, Santa Fe, and lots of time playing with the two babies. He was very grateful to spend so much time with such awesome people. Grant flew back early Saturday morning and has been spending the weekend resting before he heads back to work on Monday.
The Jackson's of Albuquerque
From July 22nd- late entry
Stacie, Kevin and Henry are giddy with excitement about having Grant and the Hirzes arrive this upcoming week. Work has been increasingly stressful for Stacie, so she especially looks forward to taking a week off to spend time with people she loves. This past week the Jackson's enjoyed eating lots of apricots falling from their neighbor's tree. They recently purchased a Bumbo seat to help strengthen Henry's back and they were glad when it finally arrived. Henry isn't thrilled about it, but he'll warm up to it eventually. Henry still has a cough, but it looks like he is close to recovering.
From July 29th
The Jacksons enjoyed a wonderful week with Grant and the Hirzes. In between trips to the zoo and Santa Fe, they enjoyed playing games, talking, and laughing together. Also, while together both babies reached milestones; Claire Hirz turned 6 months old and Henry turned 5 months old. On Wednesday they were all sorry to say goodbye to the Hirzes, but grateful to continue enjoying time with Grant.
On Thursday they introduced Henry to his first solid- avocado. Henry loved it and kept reaching for more. Stacie and Kevin are excited to help him discover new foods. They also enjoyed a trip with Grant to the Bosque (forest) by the Rio Grande. Then on Friday they took Henry to get professional pictures taken at the mall. It'll be a few weeks until they can share the pictures, but they guarantee that Henry looks very cute.
Kevin and Stacie were sad to say goodbye to Grant on Saturday, but were very thankful for the wonderful time they spent together. They are now counting down until the grandparents can come visit! In the meantime enjoy the many, many pictures that they have shared.
The Colorado Haws Family
These past few weeks have been very busy for us. We had a couple of birthday’s that we went to and finished off the girls swimming lessons. We also have been trying to get things taking care of for our move to Alaska…right now it seems to be at a stop until we get the official orders so we can set up transportation. Despite all of the stress from moving we had a wonderful week. We were able to enjoy some time with Andy’s family in Nauvoo, IL (a church history site). It was very peaceful to be in that area. We learned more about what the saints had to go through, and how they built the beautiful Nauvoo temple and then were driven out by the angry mobs and again had to leave everything that they had to head west after the Prophet Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith was martyred in Carthage, IL. Being in Nauvoo had made me very grateful for those before me who kept the faith and never gave up even with all the hardships that they had to face.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
Lanette had an absolutely great time this last week. She stayed at the Elmhorst family and did all sorts of fun things. She treated them to dinner at A & W. She learned that "Celestial Seasonings Sleepy Time Tea" was really good. Grant has had a great time teasing her about the tea. She enjoyed meeting new people, attending a birthday party, watched movies and all sorts of other things.
Logan, Mom and I had an absolutely wonderful time in Nauvoo. We met up with Julie, Jeff & Alex along with Andy, Melanie, Haley and Kayla in Ft Madison on Friday night. Before we arrived they had a great time swimming. On Saturday we moved into our cabin in Nauvoo. Julie, Jeff, Logan and me were privileged to do baptisms for the dead. Jeff did the baptisms and I helped with confirmations. We were able to do the work for a number of our ancestors. That evening we were able to attend the pageant. It was amazing.
On Sunday we attended church and later enjoyed dinner together. Julie, Jeff and Alex had to take off to return to Wisconsin. The rest of us went to Carthage and enjoyed a really great musical "fireside" called "And the story goes on..." The performers were excellent and I could picture many of you as performers in such an exhilarating performance.
On Monday Melanie and Mom enjoyed temple service while we got ready and later joined them in fun activities in Nauvoo including a horse drawn wagon ride through Old Nauvoo. We had fun at the Browning Gun shop, the brickyard and the a midday children's play. That evening we traveled to Carthage and toured the Carthage Jail and then ate pizza together.
Tuesday included an opportunity to ride a horse drawn carriage ride around the perimeter of Old Nauvoo. The narrator was a spirit filled wonderful senior missionary. We were all touched by his testimony. Later we went to the Blacksmith shop and toured the stores of modern day Nauvoo. That evening we watched a play then headed home to our cabin after a terrific meal together at a Mexican restaurant.
That evening I thought a great deal about the meaning of family. I considered the individuals in our own family tree that had waited so long to have the sealing work done. I had in my possession the sealing card for a couple that was dated back to my research work in Higley, Arizona. I knew that they wanted to be sealed as an eternal family. That feeling propelled Mom and I to go to the temple again on Wednesday morning to do the sealing for some of our ancestors. The temple was an amazing place and was the crowning jewel of Nauvoo. I surely appreciate your help in getting this work done for our ancestors. I feel a constant drive to do more for the salvation of our ancestors. Thank you for your help.
After leaving the temple, Mom, Logan and I did a couple of more things and headed home. We had a few missed roads and ended up in Marshfield after Melanie and Andy and the girls were home.
We enjoyed having Emily over for a night. She is working very hard. Logan and I enjoyed lunch at her restaurant on Saturday. Today we enjoyed dinner with Julie, Jeff and Alex.
Love,
Dad
Thursday, July 19, 2012
July 19, 2012
The Haws Family of Brazil
Mom and Dad,
And they're off! Felipe and Lucas have left for a week and a half at
soccer tournaments. That is the big news for the two of them. Both seem
to be doing well and phone conversation suggests that they would prefer
that we called less and just let them have fun.
Derick has been doubly spoiled during with the absence of his brothers.
On Saturday we went to see Ice Age 4 in 3D in the movie theater. The 3D
movie was quite fun. Following the move we did hamburgers and brought
home a neat toy. The toy was a dinosaur clad in clay that we had to use
wooden finger-picks and brushes to clear the clay and uncover the
dinosaur. While Derick and I found our first archaeological dig to be
great fun, Renata decided it was messy and ruled out the hopes of having
another dig.
Renata is doing well. She has been busy as always and missing the boys
while they are gone. Renata's sister is dating and Renata's joy is the
game of cupid and listening to the excitement of her sister's stories.
For me things are going well. At work I am going through a bit of
growing pains as we have set up too many routines and I need to rebuild
some to better manage the computer resources.
Outside of work I have had the chance to learn lots of new things. I
ditched the high costs of Windows and Apple when I came to Brazil
turning to Linux as an alternative. I used Ubuntu since I arrived and
confess that I thought it much better than Windows or Apple. Feeling
adventurous I moved from Ubuntu to a different version of Linux called
Fedora. I continue impressed. I am not sure which version I prefer.
Ubuntu is certainly easier for the non-programmer but Fedora offers some
added simplicity for the power-user (myself). For now I will continue
with Fedora but I might revert back to Ubuntu in the near future.
My suggestion for the week, if you are fed up with having all of the
viruses and headaches of your Windows machine, it might be time to try
Linux. If you are interested you might try out Ubuntu. Highly
recommended.
That is all for me.
Love,
Jeff
The Jackson Family
Stacie, Kevin and Henry are giddy with excitement about having Grant and the Hirzes arrive this upcoming week. Work has been increasingly stressful for Stacie, so she especially looks forward to taking a week off to spend time with people she loves. This past week the Jackson's enjoyed eating lots of apricots falling from their neighbor's tree. They recently purchased a Bumbo seat to help strengthen Henry's back and they were glad when it finally arrived. Henry isn't thrilled about it, but he'll warm up to it eventually. Henry still has a cough, but it looks like he is close to recovering.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
This is kind of strange preparing this blog update. Lanette is gone to the Elmhorsts. Grant is with Stacie & Kevin (and Henry, Carolyn, Brent & Clare). Julie, Jeff and Alex are in Nauvoo. And Molly is at the kennel. Logan, Mom and I ate a very quiet dinner. We had one pizza and lots of left overs. This is really weird. We will be taking off soon to go to Nauvoo. It will be a wonderful chance to see family and perhaps friends (maybe the McKendricks). I need a break from work and Mom and Logan can use some fun.
This past week was wonderful because we had several good and much needed rain showers. The garden and lawn very much appreciate the rain. I must have saved several hours in watering time. My garden is looking pretty good and we are anticipating a good harvest. I do love to go out to the garden early in the morning and enjoy the bird's songs and the cool breeze. This Saturday we attended a branch picnic called heritage days on Saturday and later I was able to help a bit with painting at Julie and Jeff's.
I have been doing quite a bit of family history work this week so that we can do the temple work for our ancestors this week in Nauvoo. At work I have called Jeff for help on computer stuff. Reading his recommendation on computers makes me think that Linux may be my next move.
Mom has been working in her room trying to get it the way she wants. Logan enjoyed a back to school picnic. It was a good opportunity to spend time with friends. He has redecorated his room and had a wonderful time doing it. He is very proud of it.
We enjoyed having Emily over on Sunday.
We love each of you and hope that this finds you happy and safe.
Love,
Dad
Mom and Dad,
And they're off! Felipe and Lucas have left for a week and a half at
soccer tournaments. That is the big news for the two of them. Both seem
to be doing well and phone conversation suggests that they would prefer
that we called less and just let them have fun.
Derick has been doubly spoiled during with the absence of his brothers.
On Saturday we went to see Ice Age 4 in 3D in the movie theater. The 3D
movie was quite fun. Following the move we did hamburgers and brought
home a neat toy. The toy was a dinosaur clad in clay that we had to use
wooden finger-picks and brushes to clear the clay and uncover the
dinosaur. While Derick and I found our first archaeological dig to be
great fun, Renata decided it was messy and ruled out the hopes of having
another dig.
Renata is doing well. She has been busy as always and missing the boys
while they are gone. Renata's sister is dating and Renata's joy is the
game of cupid and listening to the excitement of her sister's stories.
For me things are going well. At work I am going through a bit of
growing pains as we have set up too many routines and I need to rebuild
some to better manage the computer resources.
Outside of work I have had the chance to learn lots of new things. I
ditched the high costs of Windows and Apple when I came to Brazil
turning to Linux as an alternative. I used Ubuntu since I arrived and
confess that I thought it much better than Windows or Apple. Feeling
adventurous I moved from Ubuntu to a different version of Linux called
Fedora. I continue impressed. I am not sure which version I prefer.
Ubuntu is certainly easier for the non-programmer but Fedora offers some
added simplicity for the power-user (myself). For now I will continue
with Fedora but I might revert back to Ubuntu in the near future.
My suggestion for the week, if you are fed up with having all of the
viruses and headaches of your Windows machine, it might be time to try
Linux. If you are interested you might try out Ubuntu. Highly
recommended.
That is all for me.
Love,
Jeff
The Jackson Family
Stacie, Kevin and Henry are giddy with excitement about having Grant and the Hirzes arrive this upcoming week. Work has been increasingly stressful for Stacie, so she especially looks forward to taking a week off to spend time with people she loves. This past week the Jackson's enjoyed eating lots of apricots falling from their neighbor's tree. They recently purchased a Bumbo seat to help strengthen Henry's back and they were glad when it finally arrived. Henry isn't thrilled about it, but he'll warm up to it eventually. Henry still has a cough, but it looks like he is close to recovering.
The Wisconsin Haws Family
This is kind of strange preparing this blog update. Lanette is gone to the Elmhorsts. Grant is with Stacie & Kevin (and Henry, Carolyn, Brent & Clare). Julie, Jeff and Alex are in Nauvoo. And Molly is at the kennel. Logan, Mom and I ate a very quiet dinner. We had one pizza and lots of left overs. This is really weird. We will be taking off soon to go to Nauvoo. It will be a wonderful chance to see family and perhaps friends (maybe the McKendricks). I need a break from work and Mom and Logan can use some fun.
This past week was wonderful because we had several good and much needed rain showers. The garden and lawn very much appreciate the rain. I must have saved several hours in watering time. My garden is looking pretty good and we are anticipating a good harvest. I do love to go out to the garden early in the morning and enjoy the bird's songs and the cool breeze. This Saturday we attended a branch picnic called heritage days on Saturday and later I was able to help a bit with painting at Julie and Jeff's.
I have been doing quite a bit of family history work this week so that we can do the temple work for our ancestors this week in Nauvoo. At work I have called Jeff for help on computer stuff. Reading his recommendation on computers makes me think that Linux may be my next move.
Mom has been working in her room trying to get it the way she wants. Logan enjoyed a back to school picnic. It was a good opportunity to spend time with friends. He has redecorated his room and had a wonderful time doing it. He is very proud of it.
We enjoyed having Emily over on Sunday.
We love each of you and hope that this finds you happy and safe.
Love,
Dad
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
July 11, 2012
The Haws Family of Angra
Mom and Dad,
With a little spare time I thought that I would write a short note on our week.
The boys just went through the last week of testing for the semester. Wednesday begins winter break, yes that was winter I said. Winter break will last until the end of the month and I already feel tired.
Felipe and Lucas should be going to soccer tournaments. Felipe will be playing in Rio and Lucas will be participating in try-outs in São Paulo at a professional team. Both are excited.
Derick is pleased to get a break from school. He has done well and is a very good student.
Renata has been busy. Several of us have been sick on and off over the last couple of weeks and Renata has been overwhelmed trying to take care of everyone.
As to myself, I have been having a lot of fun at work. There are several interesting projects that I have been working on. I had been working through weather data for some time, now that those applications are stable I have been working on a distribution system for managing the increasing number of reports that are being sent. I have also been working on expanding our current set up so that I can manage more computers easily. These tasks have been exciting for me and have taught me to think in very different ways than I had a few months ago. I am very pleased.
That is all from us. We are well and hope you are too.
Love,
Jeff
Grant's News
Grant had a bit of a bumpy week at work. Nothing catastrophic, just a couple of rough days. A friend from work has been gone for the last week on vacation and that throws him off his groove a bit. Otherwise, Grant was excited to be off work the 4th of July, because working in a restaurant over a big grilling day is kind of cruddy. No business at all. So he was thankful to get the spend the day at home relaxing rather than guarding an empty restaurant. Thanks to the hot and muggy weather, the wildflowers here are springing up all over the place. Some of the wildflowers are over a month early. And of course, Grant was excited for July 5th, the official start of back to school sales at stores.
The Haws Family of Colorado
This past week we have been trying to stay busy doing activities as a family. On Monday we went to a Sesame Street play put on by the USO. It was kind of ironic that we went to it because it was about moving to new places and meeting new people. On Wednesday we went swimming to celebrate the 4th of July since they had cancelled all of the other celebrations around town due to the fire. On Thursday we enjoyed the morning at the zoo. The girls were excited because they were able to see the gorillas eating. Saturday Haley and Kayla made a Penske truck at home depot. Luckily we went in the morning, because by the afternoon it was pouring down rain. It also poured down rain after church on Sunday. We are very grateful for the rain even if it does come down all at once.
The Jackson Family of Albuquerque
Kevin, Stacie and Henry has a wonderful week and enjoyed extra time together on Wednesday, since Stacie had the day off of work. They celebrated Canada Day and Independence Day with grilling. On Saturday Kevin was grateful to take some time to golf with his friends. Stacie spent lots of time snuggling Henry. The Jacksons are counting down the days until Grant arrives, along with Carolyn, Brent and Claire Hirz.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
Wisconsin continues to swelter in the heat. Thankful it is a bit cooler but this week compared to last but heat is heat and we specialize in humidity. We could really use some rain for the crops but my garden appreciates the fact that hoses can bring water when the clouds don't.
We have enjoyed soccer games and family time this last few days. On the 4th we went to the branch pancake breakfast. Later that day Logan, Lanette and I went over to Julie and Jeff's to do some painting and helping out. Logan mowed the lawn and Lanette helped hold Alex. It worked out pretty well. That evening we can home to a delicious meal that Grant and Mom had waiting for us.
Logan's final soccer game was last night. They lost but overall they had a very successful season. Logan will be joining the Columbus soccer program in a few weeks so it is nice to have a break for awhile from practices and games.
One of the fun things we have been doing is eating healthier and exercising more. I know that I feel better and I hope everyone else is too.
We are all looking forward to vacations. Grant will be off to Albuquerque. Lanette will stay here. Yes, of course, with the Elmhorst family. Logan, Kellie and I will be off to Nauvoo to meet up with Julie, Jeff, Alex and Andy, Melanie, Haley and Kayla. It will be great to be together and we look forward to seeing all of you during the coming year.
Love,
Dad
Mom and Dad,
With a little spare time I thought that I would write a short note on our week.
The boys just went through the last week of testing for the semester. Wednesday begins winter break, yes that was winter I said. Winter break will last until the end of the month and I already feel tired.
Felipe and Lucas should be going to soccer tournaments. Felipe will be playing in Rio and Lucas will be participating in try-outs in São Paulo at a professional team. Both are excited.
Derick is pleased to get a break from school. He has done well and is a very good student.
Renata has been busy. Several of us have been sick on and off over the last couple of weeks and Renata has been overwhelmed trying to take care of everyone.
As to myself, I have been having a lot of fun at work. There are several interesting projects that I have been working on. I had been working through weather data for some time, now that those applications are stable I have been working on a distribution system for managing the increasing number of reports that are being sent. I have also been working on expanding our current set up so that I can manage more computers easily. These tasks have been exciting for me and have taught me to think in very different ways than I had a few months ago. I am very pleased.
That is all from us. We are well and hope you are too.
Love,
Jeff
Grant's News
Grant had a bit of a bumpy week at work. Nothing catastrophic, just a couple of rough days. A friend from work has been gone for the last week on vacation and that throws him off his groove a bit. Otherwise, Grant was excited to be off work the 4th of July, because working in a restaurant over a big grilling day is kind of cruddy. No business at all. So he was thankful to get the spend the day at home relaxing rather than guarding an empty restaurant. Thanks to the hot and muggy weather, the wildflowers here are springing up all over the place. Some of the wildflowers are over a month early. And of course, Grant was excited for July 5th, the official start of back to school sales at stores.
The Haws Family of Colorado
This past week we have been trying to stay busy doing activities as a family. On Monday we went to a Sesame Street play put on by the USO. It was kind of ironic that we went to it because it was about moving to new places and meeting new people. On Wednesday we went swimming to celebrate the 4th of July since they had cancelled all of the other celebrations around town due to the fire. On Thursday we enjoyed the morning at the zoo. The girls were excited because they were able to see the gorillas eating. Saturday Haley and Kayla made a Penske truck at home depot. Luckily we went in the morning, because by the afternoon it was pouring down rain. It also poured down rain after church on Sunday. We are very grateful for the rain even if it does come down all at once.
The Jackson Family of Albuquerque
Kevin, Stacie and Henry has a wonderful week and enjoyed extra time together on Wednesday, since Stacie had the day off of work. They celebrated Canada Day and Independence Day with grilling. On Saturday Kevin was grateful to take some time to golf with his friends. Stacie spent lots of time snuggling Henry. The Jacksons are counting down the days until Grant arrives, along with Carolyn, Brent and Claire Hirz.
The Haws Family of Wisconsin
Wisconsin continues to swelter in the heat. Thankful it is a bit cooler but this week compared to last but heat is heat and we specialize in humidity. We could really use some rain for the crops but my garden appreciates the fact that hoses can bring water when the clouds don't.
We have enjoyed soccer games and family time this last few days. On the 4th we went to the branch pancake breakfast. Later that day Logan, Lanette and I went over to Julie and Jeff's to do some painting and helping out. Logan mowed the lawn and Lanette helped hold Alex. It worked out pretty well. That evening we can home to a delicious meal that Grant and Mom had waiting for us.
Logan's final soccer game was last night. They lost but overall they had a very successful season. Logan will be joining the Columbus soccer program in a few weeks so it is nice to have a break for awhile from practices and games.
One of the fun things we have been doing is eating healthier and exercising more. I know that I feel better and I hope everyone else is too.
We are all looking forward to vacations. Grant will be off to Albuquerque. Lanette will stay here. Yes, of course, with the Elmhorst family. Logan, Kellie and I will be off to Nauvoo to meet up with Julie, Jeff, Alex and Andy, Melanie, Haley and Kayla. It will be great to be together and we look forward to seeing all of you during the coming year.
Love,
Dad
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