Skousen Seven

MY BIRTHDAY!!!

2011-09-07T20:17:00.000-07:00

First off , I need to thank Shawn for a very heartfelt and amazing post for my birthday! You can go here to see it http://www.coloradobeckers.blogspot.com/ My computer won't let me comment on her blog. So the next best thing is to tell her on mine how much she means to me and my family. It was quite a journey to get to this point in both of our lives. I've posted many feelings already but I can never express how I truly feel in writing. We have missed many years together, but have many years to catch up!!
I would also like to tell my parents that I love you and thank you so much for being such a support in this journey.
Now to my birthday --- It has been such a great day, went out to lunch with my in laws and friends, then met up with my mom at Sassys and got a pedicure!!! We came back to the house where my mom had a birthday cake waiting for me:) Dave surprised me with a trip to CHICAGO! I'm going with my BFF Sandi to see Shawn and Erin run the Chicago Marathon:) I haven't met Erin or her family yet, so I'm so excited to see them. We leave October 7 and come home the 10th. Short weekend, but will make a lifetime of memories:) Love you Dave, as I said on Face Book, your the red hot jelly on my pb sandwich:)

ROUND TWO :(

2011-08-27T13:46:00.000-07:00

We have been keeping an eye on Skyler's scoliosis. It has caused a bulge in his lower back, so we have been going to a local orthopedist and he just wanted to keep an eye on it. The last little while it looked like it was getting bigger so I checked into a specialist in Flagstaff. His name is Dr. Hales, and he is a great doctor! They took x-rays and found that at the top point of the scoliosis, its at a 45 degree curve and at the bottom its at a 55 degree curve. Dr. Hales said that at over a 40 degree curve its automatic surgery. So Skyler will go to Flagstaff Hospital on Dec. 13 and have the first surgery, they will go in just below the belly button with a 3 inch incision. That surgery will be about 6 hrs. Then he will go back in on Dec. 16 for the second portion of the correction. This will be on his side and will take another 6 hrs. He will have plates, screws, and rods from the bottom of his spine to about the middle of his spine. We are hoping to have him home just in time for Christmas!!!

Summer went through scoliosis surgery when she was a freshman. She has a scar that is from the middle of her front to the middle of her back. It took almost 6 months to fully recover because they had to go through all her muscles in her stomach. Dr. Hales said that Skyler should have an easier recovery since he will have smaller incisions. He will miss about 6-8 weeks of school, so will be home schooled under the direction of the school.

He is taking it pretty well, considering all that he has gone through with his eye. He is such a trooper, I know the Lord gave him a lot of strength and endurance!

We figure he will probably be close to 6'11" when this all done. The doctor hopes that the surgery will take him to a 20/25 degree curve.

HE'S BAAAAAACK!!!!!

2011-08-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

Skyler has decided to go back to Blue Ridge High!! Needless to say we are thrilled:) There are a few reasons for his decision to return, I'm just glad its what he wants. So all my boys will be at BR!! He will start BR tomorrow morning!

BIRTHDAYS!!!!!

2011-08-18T08:17:00.002-07:00

August and September bring three birthdays to our household within a few weeks of each other! Clay had his birthday on August 5, we celebrated it in St. George this year. He turned 12 and will be ordained tonight to become a deacon:) He will also be going to the temple to do baptisms for the dead tonight for the first time!! We are so proud of Clay and his worthiness to be a priesthood holder. He is excited to start passing the sacrament on Sunday.
Skyler is celebrating his birthday TODAY!! He is now 17, I can't believe how fast time goes by. He is such a good person, trys to be a good friend, even if they aren't. He is a junior in high school this year, so only one more year:( He has an incredible spirit about him.
Hunter was my birthday present, being born the day before mine:) He will celebrate his birthday on September 6. He will be 15, I think I'm getting really old!!!!! He is also a worthy priesthood holder like his brothers, he is such a great example to his friends. I have 6 sons from another mother because he has chosen some awesome friends!! I love when they come over:)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY AWESOME BOYS!!!!!!

SCHOOL DAYS! WOOHOO!!!!!

2011-08-14T16:12:00.001-07:00

I never thought that these two mascots would be in our home together!! But Skyler decided that he wanted to go to Show Low High School this year. It was a very difficult year for him last year at BR. So after much pleading, begging and more begging we finally gave into him. I went with him to register and get him into his IEP program. I have to say, I'm really impressed with their IEP counselors. He is really happy there and has made a lot of friends! I think his height and shoe size makes him the talk of the campus:) He is 6' 10 and has a size 21 shoe!!! Yes, I found shoes for him at Ross and they were only $20!!!

Hunter is fitting right into his freshman life at Blue Ridge! He is going out for football and of course checking out all the girls?!?!? His classes are going well and has some with his good friends.

Clay is in the 6th grade and likes his new teacher. He is such a good student, so I don't worry too much about him:) He is such a good kid and really makes friends easily, he likes to be sociable and got into trouble last year for talking too much :(

Being the first week of school, we will see what the next couple of months brings! Hope everyone is having a good start to the school year!!!

I GOT TAGGED!!

2011-07-18T21:49:00.000-07:00

So I click on to my blog today and my birth mom Shawn tagged me to answer some questions, then I tag 8 of my blogging buddies! Should be interesting to read all of the responses from everyone.

1. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE HOT?
Now, if this is about looks, then according to Dave definitely yes!!!! If it's about the weather, then yes again! I LOVE the heat, I HATE being cold, so the weather is perfect right now:)

2.UPLOAD A PICTURE OR WALLPAPER YOU ARE USING THIS MOMENT

I LOVE this picture of my families!!!!!!!

3.WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU ATE CHICKEN?
I eat chicken a lot!!! I don't care for hamburger to much, but will eat it :) I guess the last time I ate something with chicken was in Page, AZ. Clay was playing in the All Star games and we had a pizza with chicken, spinach, feta cheese and Alfredo sauce. It was really good!

4.WHAT WAS THE LAST SONG YOU LISTENED TO?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ak4jFODlj7c.
It is a song by CREED called WITH ARMS WIDE OPEN. It is put to a Thank a Soldier video. Really good:)

5. WHAT WERE YOU THINKING WHILE YOU WERE DOING THIS?
That I really should be in bed:) This has been a lot of fun actually!

Now I need to pass this on: This is the hardest part, to pick eight bloggers that I hope will be able to complete the task! Summer is such a busy time and if you can not get to it now, save the questions and answer at another time!

Kristal Joy
Dawna Greer
Kandra Owens
Sandi Brimhall
Kimberly Jensen
Lynnette Kish
Gayle Orth
Corie Turley

Hope you enjoyed this little tidbit into the mind of a mindless blond:) Have a great week and hope these girls will have as much fun as I did!

MORE BIRTH FAMILY!!!!!

2011-07-01T18:49:00.002-07:00

Today, I met Shawn's brother Kevin and his beautiful family! They are visiting their daughter Autumn in Phoenix this week from Texas. Debbie called me and we decided to meet in Heber at my parents house. We were running a little late and met them at the Dairy Queen in Heber. I can't tell you how much love I felt from them! Kevin and Debbie brought 4 of their kids and they are the cutest kids ever!!! Their son , Tristen and Clay look so much a like. Tristen is actually adopted too! We got to the house and visited, had a great cookout, and a little slip-n-slide for the kids. Our families have so much in common. Meeting Shawn and her family has been such a blessing to me :) Ending the "unknown" chapter and beginning the "get to know you" chapter has been such a great experience for me. My story is one of the lucky ones for adoptees, and I know that Heavenly Father knew I needed this at this time! I have the love of two families, how much luckier can a girl get?

INDEPENDENCE DAY

2011-06-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

http://youtu.be/qTZn9ZRw2Bw

This is well worth linking on to! The group is THREE2U, they are such an amazing trio! They do a great job in singing this and the video is so appropriate for this Independence Day!!!

THEY BOTH MADE IT!!!!

2011-06-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

Hunter and Clay both made the All Star teams:) We are so excited for them, they are having really long practices, but have the best coaches! Hunter is on the Juniors team and Clay is on the 10-11 yr. olds. They are learning more about their positions, batting and playing as a team. Good luck to the Blue Ridge All Stars!!!!!!

2011-06-09T16:08:00.001-07:00

2011-06-07T14:51:00.002-07:00

TARIK AND SUMMER KOJAH---JUNE 3, 2011

2011-06-04T21:55:00.005-07:00

What a wonderful day we had yesterday in Las Vegas! I surely don't recommend doing a wedding in a month, but what my mom, Kristal, Kandra, myself, and Debbe, (Tariks mom) did, I think it turned out amazing!!! A huge thank you to my sister, Kristal, for making the wedding invitations. They looked great and for Kristal being so sick I truly appreciate her for that! Thursday night, my sister-in-law, Shannon, put on a bridal shower at The Cheese Cake Factory. Tarik's mom his sister, Michelle, mom, me, Summer, Kandra, Shannon and her girls, and Jessica ( Summers new friend from her ward) came. We really had a great time, embarrassed Summer and had good food.

Friday, I wanted Summer to be able to have some professional photos done, so we went to the Galleria Mall and went to Picture People. I think they did a great job on the pictures and we were able to take the photos and cd when we left the session!!!! Kandra went over really early with her boys to do Summers hair and make-up, I think she did an amazing job!!!!

The ceremony was so good, the bishop said so many neat things to them and I hope they heard all of it:) The bishop actually made a copy of it so they can read it anytime they want to! We had about 50 people come, including my Uncle Paul, Aunt Lee, Royce, Rhonda, Garth and Bonnie. I was so appreciative that they would come and support Summer and Tarik. That meant the world to her, also her Mia Maid advisor Tammy Borrego came from Lakeside with her daughter and friend. Tammy has been a big part of her life so it was extra special that she was able to be there. .

Summer had a few members from her ward come and Tarik had many of his family members and friends come. It meant so much to them that so many people care for them.

Another special guest was my birth mom, Shawn and her husband Bill. I haven't met Bill till yesterday and what a great guy! He and Dave hit it off right away. We were able to have breakfast with them this morning before we had to leave. That was a lot of fun!

Dave's family was not able to come, and they were so missed. Hopefully Summer and Tarik can come down to Az so that we can have a party for them :)

More photos to follow, I haven't loaded them in yet, laundry and house cleaning are getting in the way of that unfortunately :(

HELP!!!!! NEED IDEAS FOR A WEDDING THAT WILL BE IN 1 MONTH!!!!!!!

2011-05-02T15:23:00.001-07:00

Summer and Tarik are getting married!!!!!!!!!! The clincher, it will be on June 3. I have no idea where to start, plus it will have to be very inexpensive. We are having it in Las Vegas in Summers ward building. Her colors are black, dark blue and white. If anyone has any ideas or things we may borrow, I will be so grateful!
Just a quick thank you to all the sympathy wishes this past week. It has been pretty tough, but we have seen many blessings too. I will eventually write about the memorial and graveside services, right now its just a little too hard.

HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY AUTUMN!!! (MAY 2)

2011-05-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

Its hard to believe my girl is leaving her teenage years tomorrow! Autumn you have such a beautiful heart and you always try to do whats right. I know its frustrating sometimes for you, but your Heavenly Father loves you and knows what's best for you! Your family loves and wishes you the best birthday ever:) LOVES and HUGS!!!

NEEDING IDEAS

2011-04-19T07:42:00.007-07:00

To all of my blogging friends and family, Autumn is in charge of her Young Single Adult (18-30 year olds) Family Home Evenings for April 25 and May 2. She needs some ideas, it seems that they always play some type of ball games and she is tired of those!!! If you have any suggestions we would greatly appreciate it :)
Not much to report on in our family. Autumn has been staying in the Valley helping a friend who just had a baby. She was able to be in the delivery room with her and was with her the whole 27 hrs of labor! It was a neat experience for her.
Summer is so anxious to have Eric!! We are going to Las Vegas on May 29 and her doctor is going to induce her the next day, which is my mom's birthday!!! It is also the 1 year anniversary that I found my Birth Mom, Shawn!!!! We are so excited to meet this special baby boy:)
Skyler is still active in the Police Explorers program and goes to that every Monday night. He will be umpiring the Blue Ridge Little League games also.
Hunter and Clay both got on fantastic baseball teams with the most awesome coaches!!!!! Hunter is with Coach Hall and Clay is with Coach Chavez and Coach Burgess. We are so excited for this seasons games! Hunter will also umpire some of the games for the Little League.
Dave and I are just running around with the kids. We had an amazing Stake Conference this past Sunday with Elder Nielson.The boys really liked him, he told a lot of football stories of when he played for BYU and the Houston Oilers. What an amazing man!!
Hope all is well with you all and look forward to many suggestions for Autumn :)

AMAZING!!!!

2011-03-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

My mom sent this to me in an e-mail, I thought it was truly amazing. Autistic people are special individuals that DO have a purpose on this earth!!!!!!!!
http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2MBBxU

DAD'S SURPRISE PARTY

2011-03-21T09:37:00.002-07:00

Saturday we had dad's surprise birthday party in Heber. We have been planning this for quite awhile, and boy did we get him good! We thought that he had found out several times these past weeks but as he put it "Its a good thing I'm deaf"! He really had no clue until we walked him into the auditorium. He was so shocked, there was about 85 of his family and closest friends there. The theme was the "50's".

Our good friend and neighbor, Sarai Franco made this amazing cake!

I love this side of the cake, he was a referee for over 30 yrs and a coach to my sisters

The next few pictures of the party, Lance was the emcee for the night and did a great job. Some of the things that were said were so dang funny and some were just touching. My dad has truly had an impact on the community and our family!

Autumn with Lance's newest, Porter

Aunt Sadie, Uncle Bud, Kristal . In the right background is my mom's sister, Laverne and her husband Gene.
To the left of Kristal is Uncle Paul's bride to be, Lee and Shannon

Hailey, Lance, Brinlee, Mom, Dad and Uncle Paul

Sky and Summer. In the background Shannon had a table full of 50's candy.

Mom and I put a few pictures together of dad.

Dad, Aunt Colleen, Uncle Paul, and Uncle Bud

Aunt Colleen and Lance

Kandra and Skyler-- Who needs a stake dance when you can dance with your aunt?

HAPPY 70th BIRTHDAY DAD!!!!! HAPPY 29th BIRTHDAY KRISTAL!!!!

2011-03-13T21:55:00.002-07:00

Today was my dads birthday, and I just want all my blogging friends to know how much I love this awesome guy! I have been the luckiest girl to have been placed in such a loving home. Dad has been there for me through many fun times and was there when the times were tough for me. He is such an amazing man, always has words of wisdom, encouragement, and many blonde jokes. I don't think there has been a time that we have traveled that he didn't know someone. He is so loved in his community, and here in Lakeside. Hope your day was an awesome one, I LOVE YOU:)

It is also my sister, Kristal, birthday today too!!! You have been such a great sister to me! I was so excited when mom told us she was pregnant with you, I wanted another sibling so bad. You really livened up our family since the day you were born. I remember dad trying to find Alka Seltzer when mom went into labor. He couldn't find it any where in the house. Then Alice and Carol Sue came over to clean the house and found a packet of them in every room!! I hope your day was awesome, Happy Birthday:) I love you too!!

CLAY IN HIS 5TH GRADE PLAY

2011-03-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

My darn finger got in the way but Clay still looks calm, cool and collected

This is most of his class minus 1 student. They did a terrific job:)

Clay had his 5th grade play yesterday, it was called "Joust!" He was so nervous to do it because he had the part of narrator. He has a really hard time memorizing things and this was a big part for him. They have been practicing for quite awhile and I must say they all did a great job!! Clay knew all of his lines and spoke loudly and clearly. The pictures are from my cell phone, so they aren't the best. I cut his hair the night before and he wasn't happy with it being so short. I think he looks great:)

SAD, SAD, DAY:(

2011-02-24T20:47:00.001-07:00

I received this from a friend, very sad :(

Please join me in remembering a great icon of the entertainment community. The Pillsbury Dough Boy died yesterday of a yeast infection and trauma complications from repeatedly being poked in the belly. He was 71.

Dough Boy was buried in a... lightly greased coffin. Dozens of celebrities turned out to pay their respects, including Mrs. Butterworth, Hungry Jack, the California Raisins, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies, and Captain Crunch. The grave site was piled high with flours.

Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy and lovingly described Dough Boy as a man who never knew how much he was kneaded. Born and bread in Minnesota, Dough Boy rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with turnovers. He was not considered a very smart cookie, wasting much of his dough on half-baked schemes. Despite being a little flaky at times, he still was a crusty old man and was considered a positive roll model for millions.

Dough Boy is survived by his wife Play Dough, three children: John Dough, Jane Dough and Dosey Dough, plus they had one in the oven. He is also survived by his elderly father, Pop Tart.

The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes.

If this made you smile for even a brief second, please rise to the occasion and take time to pass it on and share that smile with someone else that may be having a crumby day and kneads a lift.

CHANGES

2011-02-21T23:31:00.001-07:00

Last Wednesday night I went to a candy making class for Relief Society, right in the middle of getting the directions, I got a call and didn't recognize the number so I put it on ignore. Well, after we were dismissed to go to the kitchen, I called the number back and it was President Jensen of the Stake Presidency!!!! He wanted Dave's number so I gave it to him and waited patiently (NOT) to call Dave and see what was up. Dave said that he wanted to meet with us the following afternoon. Do you know the anxiety that in tells? I was a nervous wreck, we thought that maybe he would be getting released after 3 years of being the 2nd Councilor in the Bishopric. Thursday afternoon finally came, Pres. Jensen talked to us for a while and could see that I was so nervous, so finally he said that they wanted to release Dave from 2nd Councilor and put him in as 1st Councilor. We are so excited that he was not released yet. Since he was put in, we have felt the prayers in his behalf, and this calling has brought so many blessings to our family. We will do what ever the Lord wants us to do, and this is where Dave needs to be. We will miss Dave Sargent in the Bishopric, but know he is where he needs to be too! Craig Brady has taken Dave's place as 2nd Councilor. He is a great person, and has an awesome family.
Dad and Mom came on Sunday to see this all take place. Dad was able to stand in the circle when Dave was set a part for this calling. There was such an awesome Spirit in the room. I love being a member of this Church, the Lord truly is in charge of all things!!!!
I'm a "widow" for 6 days while Dave is in the Valley for some training related to the certification that he just got. He called and said it is quite an eye opening experience. He is a really fast learner so I know he will do great and will learn a lot from this training!! Love ya Babe. so proud of you:)

CATCH UP TIME AGAIN

2011-02-16T07:59:00.002-07:00

There really hasn't been a lot going on in our family. So I will try to catch you all up on the past month.
Hunter began having really bad headaches about 2 weeks ago. They started after he had fallen off the bunk bed, I didn't think he hit that hard because they don't have a floor, they have clothes piled about 2 feet deep. So how could he get a concussion? Well he did, Dave took him to the doctor and they did a CT Scan. A few hours later the doctor called and said that there was a spot on his frontal lobe and they wanted to him to get an MRI stat! Dave rushed him to the lab and they did the MRI but it didn't show anything.. What a relief!!!!!!! He is still having headaches but I think they are subsiding.
I have had the dang coughing junk but it hasn't been the gross stuff. So I can live with that. The kids are pretty healthy, Clay does have the stomach bug today.
Dave and I went to the Valley February 5 so that he could take a huge test for work.This is the test that he has tried to pass several times. However he took a different one that in the long run will be better. He PASSED it!!!! He is now a Certified Transmission Operator!! He studied so hard with his friend Jimmy, and as a present for passing, Jimmy and his wife, Linda, took us to the Out Back Steakhouse. YUMMY:) He and Jimmy are now certified and they will be going to different trainings throughout the year. His other co-workers haven't passed theirs yet. Hopefully a raise will be coming too?!?!?!
Summer is getting bigger with her pregnancy, I never showed until the 7th month, but she has been showing for about 2 months now. She is due June 3, we can't wait.The ultra-sounds show he is growing and doing really well. The doctor can't find one of his kidneys, which is scary, but I have a friend who was born with only one, and he went on to try out for a professional football team. He didn't make it because they couldn't insure him. But he has led a full active life, and this little guy will too:)
Hope you have a great day!!!!

PAY BACK IS AWESOME!!!

2011-01-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

So 2 years ago, when I turned 40 my brother surprised me by putting my 8th grade picture and cell phone # in the local paper. I swore I would get him back, he didn't think I would do anything!! Well NEVER underestimate the older sister grudge:) I had a long 2 years to think of something to get him back, I went on Vistaprints .com and ordered an 8' x 2 1/2' poster. My parents had to go to St. George so I got them to take it up for me. I believe my sister-in-law, Shannon, put it up this morning in their neighborhood!!! Think I did a pretty good job:) HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRO! YOUR THE BEST:)

IT'S A --------BOY !!! ERIK RYAN

2011-01-04T21:13:00.002-07:00

The doctor put that!! Look at it sideways

His cute little face:)

Our grandson!!!

Kissing moms belly-- So precious

I love this picture of his hand, so sweet!!!

We are so excited for this little boy to come into our lives!! What an awesome miracle:)

23 YEARS OF BEING MARRIED TO MY BEST FRIEND!!!!!!

2010-12-30T11:02:00.002-07:00

December 30, 1987 Heber Reception

Taken a couple of years ago. Guess we need to get a new one:)

Yesterday, Dave and I celebrated out 23rd Anniversary!! It is so hard to believe that much time has gone by already! I am so blessed to have Dave in my life and have him as the father of our children:)

He took me to the Valley Sunday night to the Xona Resort in Scottsdale. It was a nice room, a little small, but cozy. We took Summer down with us so that she could catch her flight out on Monday. That was a little hard to let her go, I guess because she is pregnant and I feel my motherly instincts kick in to want to be with her during this special time. But we did let her go, then we spent the next couple of days just going to malls or seeing movies, dining out and just spending some good quality time together!! We left the other kids at home by themselves and they did great! Not one call about fighting or arguing, even though I know they did a lot of it. The house was semi-clean and still standing so I was so grateful for that:)

On the way back home, we left Wednesday at noon from Mesa, by the time we got to Payson the roads were starting to get really bad from the snowstorm that moved into AZ. We decided to go on and try to get up the rim. Dave had to be to work the next day at 6:00am., so we had to get home. Well half way up the biggest curve and bridge on the rim, my car couldn't make it any further. We slid back a little toward the guardrail and stopped! Dave tried to get going but the tires kept spinning. Finally we called my nephew, who has a 4x4 and had him start coming to help. About 10 min. of being stuck we had a Highway Patrol Officer stop and said that he would turn us back towards Payson, but wouldn't help us go the other way. Dave told him he had to be to work and we had help coming, so he left us. Dave kept trying to get us unstuck and each time there was a gap in the traffic we would slide backwards trying to get some leverage. About 20 min. later a snowplow came by and put a bunch of cinders right by our car!!!!! I was never so glad to see a snowplow!!! Dave was able to get back on the road, we called our nephew, who hadn't left yet, that we were out and ok. Up the road a ways we came on to a rollover accident, which would have stalled our nephew anyways. So all in all we had a pretty fun/scary trip.

I love you Dave and can't wait to see what the next 23 years will bring:)

CHRISTMAS WITH IPAD, CELL PHONES ETC.

2010-12-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

North Point's iBand from North Point Web on Vimeo.

Thought this was really neat!!

SNOW

2010-11-28T13:47:00.000-07:00

Out my front window

I love the snow, just not the cold!!! It is so pretty right now. We left for church with clear roads and lots of wind. After church it was a blowing blizzard, I couldn't hardly see the road because of the fog. I did make it safely and now am watching it come down and blanket my yard!!! Kids are hoping for a snow day, don't think it will happen though.

MY GRANDBABY!!!!!!!

2010-11-15T18:18:00.003-07:00

The baby is upside down. You can see the arm and hands!

The left side is the heart rate and the right side is the baby

Here is the first picture of Summers baby!! They said everything looks great and she is 11 weeks. She was able to hear the heartbeat today too! Can't wait for the end of May or beginning of June:)

A HEART FULL OF THANKS AND BLESSINGS

2010-11-15T15:24:00.003-07:00

Yesterday we had a special Stake Conference that was broadcast from Salt Lake. It was for the whole state of Arizona! What an amazing 2 hours!! We heard a talk on how we need to be thankful and to express our thankfulness. So I decided to put some things down that I'm grateful for and it may be long winded but I want to have it for my blog book. So if you get bored, sorry, you can scroll down to other sites or just click out :}
My first thing I'm grateful for is the knowledge I have that there is a Heavenly Father that knows ME and loves ME! It is so awesome to think that with all the people in the world, He knows each and everyone of us!! I know I have a long ways to go to be a "perfect" person, but having the gospel in my life helps me to know that as long as I try to do those things that are right I can make it back to him someday.
I'm very grateful for Jesus Christ and for his atonement that I can repent of my daily sins. I'm also so blessed to have the gift of the Holy Ghost in my life. I've had some pretty neat experiences by listening and some experiences I wish I would have been more in tune. I'm so grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints!!!!!
I'm so very grateful for the Book of Mormon and the other books of scriptures. How blessed we are to have the words of prophets of long ago! I'm so grateful to have a living prophet today to lead and guide us.
I'm so thankful to a selfless, amazing, loving, kind and beautiful Birth Mom, Shawn. If it wasn't for her I wouldn't be where I am today. I know she never wanted to give me up, but by doing this she gave me to the best parents I could have ever asked for. I have been so blessed to have found Shawn and my three sisters. They are so amazing and fantastic! I can't put into words how much they mean to me. Shawn , you are an angel, you have been so great to my family and we LOVE you!!!
Mom, dad, Lance, Kristal, and Kandra, I LOVE YOU ALL!!! You have always been there to support me in whatever I am doing, even when it might have been a little on the blond side. I couldn't have asked for a better family to be adopted into. I get so much strength from all of you.
I have much to be grateful for in my children. Summer, we love you and are excited to be grandparents! We will love this precious spirit that Heavenly Father has sent to us. You will always have a home to come to . We know the future will be hard for you and Tarik, but with prayer and guidance, you can do it!!!
Autumn, you are such a sweet girl and you have such a loving heart. Whatever you decide to do in life we will help you achieve it! Always stay close to the church and you will have happiness:)
Skyler, you are such an amazing young man, we don't know what the future holds for you either, but you have been chosen to do some awesome things! You are such a great example to your brothers and your friends. Always stay close to the Lord and you can get through anything:)
Hunter, you also have a very tender heart and so sensitive to peoples needs. People love to be around your fun sense of humor. You have always known when I have been a little down and always try to cheer me up!
Clay, being the youngest you have put up a lot with your siblings. I still don't know where you came from with all your smartness, sure didn't get it from me! You keep us on our toes with all of your wit and wisdom.
Now to my eternal companion, David, I LOVE you so much!!! Ever since June 6, 1987, I have been so lucky to have you in my life. You have such a great spirit about you all the time. Thank you for choosing me as your bride and treating me as your queen. I'm so grateful that you hold the priesthood in our home, it brings such a peace to our family.
As you can see I'm truly blessed to have the life I have. At this Thanksgiving season, I hope all of you can see the blessings in your life.

HALLOWEEN!!!!!

2010-11-01T09:31:00.001-07:00

Autumn and Emmi ( best friends)
Pirate and Red Riding Hood

Clay as Jason from Friday the 13th

Hunter -- The Gangster that got in a brawl

The kids had a really fun time Saturday. Its kind of sad that they are all growing up and going with friends instead of us driving them around. Skyler didn't dress up, he had to go with the Police Explorers to help with the community Trunk or Treat. It was a just Clay left with us so we took him to the trunk or treat and then he came home and went to a few homes around our neighborhood.
In other news, the Primary Program was AMAZING!!!!! I don't know if there was a dry eye in the congregation. The children sang their hearts out and did their speaking parts! I had a few children that didn't show up but it still ended on time. Bishop Lindsey spoke at the end and it could not have been more perfect! He restated some of the childrens parts and reread a song that we sang. It was such a spiritual high for me :) For doing such a fantastic job, we made rice crispy treats for them and watched a movie! Needless to say they were so excited !
I love these precious children, they have such a special spirit about them. I'm so honored to be their Primary President!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUMMER!!!

2010-10-16T18:18:00.000-07:00

Summer's fun picture in Tucson

I can't believe Summer is 22 today! I'm officially OLD, but at least i still think I'm young:) I wish you lived closer to us so we could celebrate, but we will get to Las Vegas as soon as we can! We love you girl:)

NEW CALLING AND GRANDPARENTS??!!!

2010-10-10T19:57:00.000-07:00

Well I've known about my new calling for 2 weeks now but since General Conference I couldn't say anything. I have been very humbled, overwhelmed, flabbergasted, shocked, and terrified over these last 2 weeks. What? You want to know what it is?? ( Drum Roll) PRIMARY PRESIDENT!!!! What the heck were they thinking? Actually the week before GC as I was sitting in Sacrament Meeting and they were releasing the presiding primary president to put her in as Stake YW President, the thought came to me--This is why.
I knew immediately that I was going to be the next president. I was put in as the Sunbeam teacher to get used to primary again. What a rotten trick!! Seriously though, I am very excited for this extreme challenge:) I have the most awesome councilors and secretary that I will depend on immensely, so I hope they are also up to the challenge. My first councilor is Sandi Brimhall, second is Amber Novak and my secretary is Stephanie Platt. I was truly inspired to have these amazing women. Sandi was actually the one I really tried to replace, she had just gotten released as primary president not more that a year ago!! I am so glad that she did accept the call though:) I have never had such spiritual experiences in my life as I have had these last 2 weeks. I do love the children that will be in trusted in my care, and will miss teaching the Sunbeams, but I still get to see them every Sunday:) However, I am being put in 3 weeks before the primary program. UGH!!! At least the last president wrote and distributed all the parts to the program. All I have to do is direct it, which by the way, I have no idea how to. So we will be winging it big time!
As some of you know, our daughter Summer has been living in Las Vegas with her boyfriend now for about 20 months. Well she just informed us that we will be grandparents around the month of May! We have very mixed emotions right now, but our number one priority is the health of the baby and Summer. We are excited to have this special miracle come into our lives, but also know that it will be a struggle for Summer and Tarik. We love our daughter and will be there to support her every step of the way:) She is feeling pretty good so far, so hopefully she got my genes for not getting sick till the last month! It is pretty weird thinking of ourselves as grandparents but what a neat new chapter we are beginning:)

FAMILY PICTURE

2010-10-02T17:09:00.001-07:00

Well I finally got one of our pictures to fit on the blog!! 'Course now it is outdated because Lance and Shannon just had their 5 child and 2nd boy!!! They had a scare and raced Shannon to have an emergency c-section. The baby was born healthy and is 7' 9 oz. and 21" long!!! His name is Porter Dallin Greer and he sure looks like a Greer so far:) Congratulations Lance, Shannon, and family! Can't wait to see him in November!!

ANOTHER BELATED BIRTHDAY WISH

2010-09-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

My red headed, athletic, funny, sexy ( his words, not mine), awesome boy turned 14 while we were in the Valley meeting Shawn and Amber. He just got his interview with Bishop Lindsey so he will be ordained aTeacher 2 weeks from yesterday. We would have done it next Sunday, but our stake is having a special Stake Conference with Elder Richard G. Scott! We aren't sure why he is coming to our area but we are so excited:) We are so proud of our boys for their advancement in the priesthood and their willingness to do what's right!

My GQ boy

PICTURES

2010-09-10T10:17:00.001-07:00

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Seeing each other for the first time:)

MEETING DAY

2010-09-10T10:09:00.002-07:00

I thought it would be nice if I told my feelings on meeting Shawn. This has been a wish of mine for many years! When I was walking down the hall I couldn't believe I would turn the corner and see Shawn and Amber. That first hug was amazing, so many emotions came out and I did cry! Shawn is so amazing, I can't believe how much we do look alike. We do have the same laugh lines, crinkle in our nose when we smile and some of our expressions are the same!
We hung out for awhile and looked at pictures, I could tell it was a little difficult for Shawn to see the baby pictures, but she said that I did look like the 3 girls as babies. My dad took us to the Cheese Cake Factory. It was yummy, and we had such a nice visit. I couldn't stop staring at Shawn and Amber. I never really looked like any of my family and so it was so neat to see who I look like:) After the dinner we went back to the hotel and talked awhile longer. It was such an emotional few hours that we all decided to call it a night.

Sunday Shawn's BFF was in town so they spent the day with her and her family. It was really okay with me, I think I needed some time to process things. Monday we went out to lunch, I didn't realize we were there for 3 hrs! I felt I took a lot of the time in talking, but they were asking questions and I tried to explain the best I could about church, my growing up, school, dating, and any other questions they could think of! We then went back to Shawn's hotel, she gave me a Willow Tree statue of a mom and daughter hugging, a picture of herself when she was 8 months pregnant with me and a DVD of her, the girls and their families. These were all special gifts that I will treasure always!!!!! We then went to the Sugar Bowl and had ice cream. It was really good and we had a lot of laughs there. We ended the night by talking in their hotel room for about an hour. I didn't want it to end but the kids were tired and Shawn and Amber's flight was early in the morning. So we hugged and said our goodbyes until next time:) I am so blessed to have Shawn and the girls in my life, they are amazing women and I can't wait to get to know them even more!!! My kids are blessed to have another Nana, and 3 more aunts. Shawn is such a good Nana to all of her grandkids and now to have 5 more to get to love is something wonderful!
I have been trying to download some pictures that my kids and Dave took, but its not working out how I wanted it to. So I will just put the pictures in and hope it looks good.

MY NEW FAMILY!!!!

2010-09-09T20:41:00.001-07:00

Well I was going to post everything about this past weekend, but Shawn beat me to it. I told her I was going to direct everyone to her blog, and she said that would be okay. Everything she posted about, I was going to post the same thing! So go to http://www.coloradobeckers.blogspot.com/ and you will see all the exciting adventures Shawn, Amber and my family had this past weekend. Shawn did go to her bff house on Sunday, I was so glad she was able to go to the bbq. Friendships are so important!!

FRIDAY IS HERE AT LAST!!!!!

2010-09-03T06:58:00.000-07:00

Friday is finally here, and we are heading to the Valley to meet Shawn and Amber! I can't believe it's here. I am having butterflies, my heart is racing and beating so fast right now. I know this is going to be a forever friendship and love for my new family. I am so grateful for this chance to get to know them:) This has really been a dream come true. I don't have to look at every blond woman in the malls anymore! I will finally be face to face with my birth mom. No more wondering who I look like, I am so glad of this! I will be posting when I get back. Love you all:)

FREE GIFT!!!

2010-09-02T23:11:00.001-07:00

http://www.canvaspeople.com/freegift I just got this from my sister, Kristal, it is so cool. I actually got a bigger size so paid a little more, just pay S&H. Really easy to do!!!

CLAYS ARROW OF LIGHT

2010-08-31T20:47:00.001-07:00

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Clay walking over the bridge from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts

Tonight was Clays last Cub Scout pack meeting. This is 2 fold for me, I'm glad its our last one, but I'm sad its our last one. This means that my little boy is growing up:( His leader had me list the Scout Oath characteristics and have his family say something that he protrays in that character. They were: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Thrifty, Cheerful, Brave, Clean, and Reverent. With every word he tied a ribbon to his Arrow of Light stand. It was really nice how it turned out! He has had the best leaders through out his Cub Scout career! Thank you to everyone who has touched his life in one way or the other, we love you dearly!
The first picture is blurry, but this is his new Boy Scout leader, Bro. Webb. The second one is Clay and his Arrow of Light stand.

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN!!

2010-08-28T20:01:00.001-07:00

As of this writing, there is 6 days and 15 hours left till I meet Shawn and Amber!! I can't tell you how slow this week has gone by. Now just one more week to go, I sure hope it goes by faster. I do have things that will keep me busy, 2 game nights to do tickets for and Clay gets his Arrow of Light at Pack Meeting on Tuesday. Hunter has a home football game on Thursday and we meet Kandra that night to pick Summer up too. I do think this week is going to fly by now that I've mentioned everything I have to do.
I'm so proud of myself, I actually scrap booked my wedding pictures! I had them in a really nice album but after 22+ years, it fell apart. So I called my awesome, talented, amazing, always there for me, crafty friend, Sandi to help me out. It literally took all day yesterday to complete it, but it looks great! Hugo thanks to you, Sandi :) It will be so neat to show the book to Shawn and Amber.
I'm still having a hard time thinking of something really special to give them, but I know just seeing them and actually touching them, will be a huge gift to both of us:)
In other news, Skyler is finally free of the intense pain he has been suffering with since May 19!!! His eye is not quite so red, he still wears his sunglasses, but we will do that over heavy drugs any day!!
Until next time bloggers........

MY BOY IS A PRIEST/13 MORE DAYS!!!!!!!!

2010-08-22T20:27:00.012-07:00

Skyler--his GQ pose/ Spencer Boerup Photography

I can't believe I forgot to post Skylers happy birthday post!! UGH -- Well he turned 16 on August 18. Its so weird to have a 16 yr old boy now. Even though he is 6'8" he is still my little boy, course he towers over me and loves to show that by putting his arm around me so that I have to look UP to him! He was ordained a priest today by his dad. I was able to slip out of Sunbeams to witness this exciting event! Bishop Lindsey had him come up to the podium to be sustained by the ward. Skyler is so much taller than him and so Bishop commented on that and then there was a friend of Hunters that just turned 14 who is 4'8' who also went up to the podium.So it went from one extreme to the other, it was quite funny:) Sky is such an inspiration to me, he has never questioned why he has had to go through this huge trial. He does complain about the pain, which is very severe at times. Love you big guy!!!!!!

Great-grandma Eve, Shawn's mom,Mardele(They both have passed away) Kevin (Shawns brother), Debbie (Kevins wife)

I only have 13 more days till I meet Shawn and Amber!! I'm so excited, I don't really know why I'm not nervous, but probably because I have waited for this day to come for so long. Shawn started a blog after reading mine. She has shared her experiences from the time she found out she was pregnant with me until she gave birth to me! This has been such an eye opening experience. I have so much love and admiration for all that she went through. I can't put into words how grateful I am to her. I was just able to post pictures of my grandmother and great-grandmother, who Shawn stayed with while she was pregnant with me. I love seeing my relatives, it will be full circle for all of us! I truly believe that angels and our Heavenly Father have been apart of this reunion. I'm so blessed to have found her and my sisters!!
I am bummed that Uncle Kevin and Aunt Debbie won't be able to meet this time. Their daughter Autumn, who lives in Phoenix, will be able to be there though! They will be in Phoenix during the Holidays so we will meet then:)

The photographer told him to do something silly- that's what we got!

PS>>
I also forgot to mention Clays birthday on August 5. He turned 11 and is so excited to be 12 next year!! He is loving his 5th grade teacher! I feel bad because I was at Girl's Camp and Skyler had his surgery the day before so he kind of got left out a little bit. He did go out with his dad for the day and picked out a few gifts. He is growing up and keeps us on our toes! He will be testing for Horizons again this year, he can't wait! We love you Clay Bubbles!!!

SUNBEAMS:)

2010-08-17T13:43:00.000-07:00

Okay everyone, I am loving the Sunbeam class! They are so dang cute and innocent!!!!!!!!! I still am having a hard time being in sharing time/ singing time. There are so many unruly kids in there, I want to pop some of them. I don't mind you, but it is an act of great self-control not to. Autumn and I make a great team, and I even got one of the little girls to smile at me during class:) I think that the Lord needs me to learn patience and this is the best way to get it!!!! So I am hear to admit that I have been to several AA meetings (Attitude Adjustment) and it is helping a lot!! Thanks for all of the encouraging words, you're the best:)

Emotional Week

2010-08-09T16:05:00.001-07:00

Sky had his latest surgery last Wednesday. Didn't go as well as we had hoped for. They went in and removed both bubbles and the buckle around his eye. Then worked around the retina, but there is so much scar tissue around it that Dr. Sipperley said that there was no hope of Sky seeing out of it again. I wasn't able to be there because I was at Stake Young Women's camp. Dave said the Dr. came in told him he wouldn't be able to help him and pretty much left the room. I am so ticked, this is a 15 year old boy your telling he won't see out of his eye again and you walk out of the room? What kind of dr. are you? I don't care if your nation renowned. You take the time to have compassion and help Sky out with this devastating news. Barnet/ Delany will get an earful from me on Thursday!!!! He is handling it really well though. We are sending his file to St. George and seeing if there is anything the Dr's. can do up there. Lance knows some of the Opthamologists there. I'll keep you posted on this.
I was able to go to girl's camp this year, it was the most awesome experience I've had in a long time!! Before I left, my bishop called me into his office and told me I was being released from the YW. I was so upset, I love my Beehives. They are so amazing and great girls. I cried, threw tantrums, and screamed but to no avail. The Lord needs me to be a Sunbeam teacher! I'm still not sure this is where I truly am needed but I'm not going to argue with Him:) I will miss my girls soooooooo much, they have taught me so much these last 2 1/2 years. Change is something that is really hard for me, especially since I'm a nervous wreck when I even walk by the Primary room!!! I may never know the reason why this is happening right now, but I just have to trust in the Lord.
Bishop gave me 3 weeks to mourn this change, so I actually have 2 weeks left. This will be a great challenge but I will learn to love those special 3/4 year olds. Plus I will be in the class with Autumn!!!
Well until next time-----

JUST SOME FRIENDLY ADVISE

2010-08-01T23:35:00.000-07:00

When your in church bearing your testimony, NEVER say that you are glad you have friends who will go with you to get a coke when you need to talk! Especially when the 2nd councilor in the Stake Presidency is visiting your ward!! Totally blonde! Just a little FYI for you all :)

RANDOMS

2010-08-01T13:24:00.000-07:00

Just a couple of things going on here at the Skousen household! We went down to the Valley this past Tuesday for Skylers surgery to remove the bubbles. The surgery was actually Thursday but I wanted to go down and have a little fun with the kids before the surgery. We went to the mall, drove around a lot, went to David's cousins house for dinner. It was so fun to be with Brian, Gina and the kids. We had a wonderful dinner with an awesome dessert:) Hunter and Clay went swimming, and we watched Avatar. It was such a nice relaxing evening. Thanks Gina--- LOVE you!
Thursday we went in at 7:30 am, got Sky checked in and they took him into the surgery room. I waited while Dave took the kids to breakfast. While I was waiting Dr. Sipperley came out and told me that he couldn't do the surgery because they couldn't get Sky sedated enough. He had given him 3 huge doses of Morphine and he wouldn't go under. He thinks that since Sky has been taking so many Rx drugs since May 19 that he has become immune to anything. He was afraid that if he put any more drugs in he could stop breathing. So we decided that we will do the surgery next Wednesday here at the Show Low hospital so that they can put him completely out!!! I will be at girl's camp starting Tuesday, good thing there is phone service. I know Dave can handle everything, but Sky is still my little boy:)
Dave got our hotel rooms for Labor Day!! WOOHOO!!!! I can't wait to meet Shawn and Bill. It will be so awesome to finally meet my birth mom and give her a hug! To finally be able to thank her in person for giving me life and a wonderful family that raised me has been such a dream of mine. Pictures and posts next month on this:)
The Summer has been fun and as usual not long enough for the kids. Hope yours has been fun and has drawn your families closer together.

Family Update

2010-07-02T09:43:00.000-07:00

A little update on my new family. Shawn and I have been talking on the phone quite a bit lately! She is such a loving person and is so funny! We have had some really good conversations! I haven't been able to talk personally with the girls but we get on Face Book a lot!!!! We are still planning to meet on Labor Day. Not sure who will get to come this time, Shawn for sure, though:)

My mom found this picture of Amber when she was about 3 yrs old. I think I look just like her!! I wish I had the picture of me when I was that age but I can't scan yet so that you could see a side by side. Maybe my mom can help me do that sometime. Those of you who knew me, might see some resemblance.
Things are so awesome right now!

HAPPY FATHERS DAY

2010-06-20T14:47:00.001-07:00

I want to wish my awesome, amazing, spiritual, generous, caring, gorgeous husband, Dave, a happy Fathers day! I don't know how you have put up with me for 22.6 years of marriage!

I am glad that the Lord gave you a lot of patience to handle me and the kids! You are such a great example to us! Thank you for being on this new journey with me and for being a huge support. You are my rock and foundation!! I love you more each day and am thankful that I have you for eternity:)

I know this isn't a picture of me and my dad, but I love this one with Kandra! I just want everyone to know how much I love this strong, determined, hard working, spiritual, and honest man. He has taken this horrible cancer and is fighting with all he has. He knows the Lord is in charge, but has kept an amazing attitude about it. I talked to his bishop one day, and he said he goes over to see my dad so that he can be uplifted! That says a lot about my dad. This Fathers day has been a little more meaningful to me. I guess I'm just reflecting how wonderful it is to be his daughter! l love you dad, you're the greatest!
Also a special shout out to my father-in-law, Eldon. Thank you for being such an example to Dave. He is what he is today because of you! We love you and are grateful you are in our lives.

My New Found Family :)

2010-06-10T22:51:00.002-07:00

This is a picture of my birth mom Shawn, and my half-sisters. Their names are Erin, Tiffany and Amber. I am so excited to show this to all of my blog friends and family. They are amazing women and even tho I barely know them, I already have such a love for them, its really hard to explain it unless your living it like I am right now. We will hopefully get to meet on Labor Day, that will be quite the birthday present to me!
Just wanted to thank everyone for all of your support through this. Mom and dad you have been amazing and I love you all the more for it! Thanks for embracing this with me. I love you both!!!!!!!! Also thanks to my sister's Kristal , Kandra and my brother Lance for being excited for me. Love you lots too!
My mom found a picture on Ambers facebook that looks like me when I was about 4 years old. Its so fun to see some resemblances in them.
More updates as they come in:)

New Adventures!!!

2010-06-04T10:42:00.002-07:00

As some of you know, I have been searching for my birth family for quite along time. I have put so many hours on the computer and even enlisted my best friend Sandi. Actually she has been the one to push me!!!
In the past year I have had people come up to me and ask if I was related to the Davis'. (I have always known my birth mothers name, she is a Davis). I think this was my wake up call to really start looking. Sandi has been there to make calls for me (I'm a chicken) and pushes me to get out of my comfort zone!!! After months of brick walls, Sandi found a site called Search Angels. I actually went on there a couple of years ago, but didn't think they could help me. I went on last Tuesday and put my information in thinking that this would be just another road block, and that I wouldn't hear from them.
My family had planned a reunion in Oro Valley a few months ago. So we went there on Thursday. What an amazing time we had! My dad looked so good and we were able to get professional pictures done. On Saturday we were on our way to Kartchner Caverns, I got a call from Sharon, my search angel. She found my birth mother!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sharon had to e-mail her and confirm everything. On Monday my family was at the studio picking out our pictures, Sharon called and said that she had just spoken to my birth mother! I can't tell you how excited I was. She said that my birthmom was so surprised that I was looking for her! My mom started crying and gave me a huge hug! She has been so supportive in me finding my birth family. I LOVE YOU MOM:)
When I got home on Tuesday, I started talking to her on face book. I have 3 half sister's and 5 nieces and nephews! They have really accepted me. My birth mother told me that she never wanted to give me up, but she was so young and had no family support. She is finally at peace and feels that a heavy burden has been lifted!
I haven't told her I was going to blog this, so I don't want to use her or my sister's names until she is ok with it. I am so blessed, I have been putting her name in the temple prayer rolls. I have two wonderful families now!
The kicker to all of this is that she and my sisters are only 5'2! I have no idea where the height comes in. I can see some resemblances every time I look at their pictures. I'm not sure when we will get to meet in person, I hope soon:)
This probably sounds all jumbled but it has truly been a whirlwind for all of us. A special thanks goes out to Sandi for always being there for me and making me do things I didn't want to do! Love you girl:)
On another note-- Skyler is doing a little better, still has eye pain, but as always he's a real trooper.

Skyler

2010-05-16T15:10:00.001-07:00

Well , I have been putting this off for too long! I guess I was wishing it was going to be a different outcome! We saw Dr. Graff last Wednesday and he agrees with Dr. Sepperly (sp?). I told him of my frustrations with Dr. S and he listened to what I said and then agreed that yes, Dr. S doesn't have the best bedside manner, but is extremely knowledgeable in this field. Dr. S is the only Dr. that can do this type of procedure on Skyler. So we will go in Wednesday to Summit Hospital in Show Low at 12:00 pm. Sky is not happy at all, but knows that Dr. Graff wouldn't do anything that would harm him. We trust his judgement (He prays before every surgery), so we feel its the best thing to save Sky's eye sight. This is the 3rd reattachment, so it should be the lucky one:) They will be scraping out the scar tissue and putting in two different oil bubbles. One will be on the lower part of the eye, which will be heavier to keep the retina from detaching and the other one will be on top of that. I don't understand all of it, but Dr. Graff assured me we are in great hands.
On a brighter note, I failed to blog about my mom on Mother's Day. I just want her to know how much I admire her and love her endlessly!! She has been a great support in trying to find my birth mother. I am so touched by the way she is caring for my dad while he is facing his cancer head on! She has been such a strength to him. She is the best mom in my book!!! Love you always mom:)
Also I couldn't miss writing about my mom-in-law, Marlene! Even tho she doesn't read my blogs, I want her to know how much I love her!! If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't have my best friend, David. She cares and loves her children endlessly! She gives strength and courage to her family and accepts them no matter what.
She has always made me feel apart of this family from the very beginning, even tho she thought I was mad all the time! (Guess I should smile more often)! Love you tons, Nan:)
Hope all you beautiful women had a great Mother's Day!

WAY BEHIND!!!!

2010-05-05T14:55:00.001-07:00

First off I wanted to wish my "Season Daughter," Autumn a very happy belated 19th birthday!!! Her birthday was May 2, I can't believe its been 19 years ago that I gave birth to a 9lb baby girl. She was so cute (and still is)!!
Not much going on in the Skousen household, baseball season started!?!? Clay is in his last year of Minors and Hunter is in his first year of Juniors. They are both doing really well. Clay hit the ball clear to the fence last night! Hunter's team has lost both games, but they are really trying to work as a team, which I think is more important anyways. He is also umpiring between games.
Skyler was going to go out for the Seniors league, but his retina is detaching for the third time, UGH!!!!
Dr. Graff suggested we see another doctor at Barnett/ Delany. He is nationally recognized. So we did and I was not impressed at all! He told us that we could take out the bubble and leave it alone ( he can't see without it in), or have another surgery and use 2 different bubbles. I asked what he would do and couldn't get an answer. His assistant came in and started talking about another case! I was not happy with him, I was so confused on what to do. So I decided that we will go see Dr. Graff on May 12 and see what he says. I went ahead and scheduled surgery for May 19. I only want whats best for Sky, and I feel we have to do everything humanly possible to save his sight. He is so not looking forward to another surgery, I can't blame him! I feel so bad for him, I don't know if another surgery will help, but I told Sky that we would do what Dr. Graff suggests when we see him on the 12th. If Dr. Graff doesn't think surgery will help, I'll cancel the surgery. Just hope I'm being a good mom on this!!!?!?
Summer is doing well in Vegas , and Dave is still the greatest husband ever!!!!
I finally got internet so I will hopefully update more often.

HERE WE GO AGAIN:(

2010-03-17T15:02:00.000-07:00

We went to Dr. Blair's office on Monday, he was so excited about how well Skylers eye was looking! He said that things were right on track, and that he should heal up quickly. So last night about 10:00 pm Skyler came to me and said he couldn't see anything but darkness. I raised my fingers to see if he could see any of them, but all he could see was a slit of light. He told me that since he got home from school at 3:30 his eye was starting to darken, by 6:00 it was totally dark. I knew we had a very early appointment to see Dr. Graff today in Show Low so I didn't call the office last night. We went in and sure enough the retina detached AGAIN! We are going to Mesa, AGAIN, tomorrow and having surgery. He will have another oil bubble put in and it will probably stay in for at least 4 months.
Sky is disappointed, but is happy to miss more school. He is still a trooper about things and just goes with the flow. Not sure how this will effect next years basketball season. Only time will tell.

SURGERY

2010-03-11T10:33:00.000-07:00

We took Sky down to Mesa yesterday and they were able to remove the oil bubble!!!! He is in pain, but is handling it pretty well. At one point the dr. came out and told me that he thought he would have to remove Sky's lens. I was freakin out to say the least, but once in there the lens was okay and they were able to leave it alone!!! Dr. Graff told us that we are doing something right, because he should have taken it out. Dr. Graff is AWESOME!! He is LDS and really likes Skyler, so we are getting the best care for him!!!!!!
On another note, my dad is fighting cancer right now and it has gotten worse. My sister Kandra wrote about the cancer and treatments they are going to do on him on her blog--- http://www.kandjowens.blogspot.com/ She really did a good job explaining it. Please keep him in your prayers.

UPDATE ON SKYLER

2010-03-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

I don't think Skyler thinks that this eye problem will ever end:( He has been such a trooper tho. Last Friday night he came in to our room with his hand over his eye and in so much pain. I text his doctor in Snowflake, but he didn't answer, so I called the Phoenix office trying to get his surgeon. He wasn't on call so they told me that they couldn't do anything anyways because they were in Phoenix. So they told me that they would try to get a hold of the doctor on call in Show Low. Dr. Stewart calls me and tells me that he is in Phoenix, but that he would get a hold of his son, who is also a dr. He calls and wants to see Skyler right away! SO we go to Snowflake at 10:30 at night. Get to the dr's. office and looks at Sky. His eye is pretty irratated and suggests we use more drops and to call him the next day. By the next day, Sky is feeling much better finally!
His dr. in Phoenix called us personally Saturday night and wants him to get the oil bubble out right away. We are going to Mesa on Wednesday to get it out! WOOOOHOOOO- Sky is so excited. Hopefully, he will recover fast from that. He may need contacts in the near future, but thats better than no sight at all!!!
Skyler has had the best doctors, I know he has been watched over through this whole ordeal. We have been so blessed!
I have been going over to my awesome friend, Sandi's house to make homemade wheat bread!! She has a Kitchen Aide mixer, which mixes it so much better than doing it by hand. I love making bread! It makes me feel somewhat like Molly Mormon:) My kids really like it too, so that is great because they may have to eat wheat a lot more! Thank you Sandi for putting up with me all the time, your the BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hunter finished his basketball season, they ended up even on wins and losses. He really improved through the season, which is great and hopefully he will get to play next season! He is such an athelete, and we are very proud of him!

THIS IS FOR YOU SUMMER!!!!

2010-02-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well I got an e-mail yesterday from Summer, telling my blog hasn't been updated in awhile. So here I am with really nothing new. I'll try to think of some happenings. I am doing a few games still, I forgot about playoffs! I really like doing these because I get double pay:)
Autumn is one weekend away from completing her 3 weekend child development class. She has enjoyed it and will be getting cpr and first aid certified. So hopefully that will enable her to get a daycare job easier!!!
Sky's eye is doing really well, the doctors are very happy with how he is healing. He will be able to get the oil bubble out in March. We can't wait, he will be able to see alittle better without it in. He might have to get contacts, but he can live with that.
Hunter is on the 7th grade basketball team, and is loving it! The team is doing pretty good and he is playing quite a lot! He is such an athelete, besides being a ladies man! He is so funny, he likes to show off his "guns"! He is such a good kid and always keeps us on our toes.
Clay was accepted into Horizon's, which is an advanced class for 4th grade. He is really being challenged in it, his regular work isn't so challenging so this is really good for him. He is enjoying school and can't wait to be in 5th grade to play basketball.
Dave is now on the 7/7 shifts. He is really enjoying it, he has more time now to spend with us!!! Also he can focus more on his bishopric stuff :)
We are still trying to shovel all the snow off the driveway, more snow to come I hear:( We will see Lance, Shannon and the kids this weekend. Should be lots of fun!!!!!!
Hope all my blogging friends are doing well :) See ya in the next blog.

P.S. Hope you're happy now, BOO BOO!!!!

UGHHHHHHHH NO SCHOOL TILL WEDNESDAY/ THURSDAY

2010-01-25T19:38:00.002-07:00

Well we have recieved so much snow that the new Jr.High and Mid School flooded, the parking lot at the High School has so much snow that they can't get it all cleared. So that means the kids can't return to school till Wednesday and that's only 9-12 grades. They are hoping the new school will be open by Thursday, but the K-4 will be out for the week. I have enjoyed spending time with the kids, but I think we are ready to go back to normal life!!!!!!! The games sceduled for this week are still on, don't understand that? Can't complain, tho, its my last week of ticket taking until September.
Dave will work 6 of his 7 days off , good money, so can't complain on being so blessed with overtime!!!They are working round the clock with all of the crews they have. Pinetop got 6 ft of snow so they are having a lot of power trouble. We hear there is more snow on Wednesday and Thursday.
Everyone be safe out there and stay SANE!!!!

SNOW,SNOW AND MORE SNOW!!!

2010-01-22T18:13:00.001-07:00

It has been snowing for days!!! School was out Monday for Civil Rights Day and has been out ever since!! As one of my friends said, "This is why I don't homeschool"!!!!!! Dave has been working a lot of overtime so that will be good money for us:) Poor Hunter has been shoveling and has quit until it stops snowing. Can't blame the poor kid. We've been playing dominoes, apples to apples and baking. Hopefully they will have school Monday. The kids are ready too! Hope you all are staying dry and warm:)
The first picture is of my little HHR, doesn't it look so cold???? I've threatened the kids not to play in the front yard, I love my yard when there's no footprints in it. The second picture is of my neighboors fence, its about 6 1/2 feet high.

Haiti Relief Effort

2010-01-18T14:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!
My sister Kristal is putting together hygiene kits and blankets for the Haitian relief efforts. She is asking for donations or money to make 20 blankets and 200 hygiene kits. She wants to deliver them to the LDS Humanitarian Service Center by March 13. You can go to her site--- http://www.joyclan.blogspot.com/
She has information on how to make the kits and the blankets. This is a great way for all of us to come together and help in a great way!
Thanks,
Wendy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY AMAZING HUBBY!!!!!

2010-01-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday Dave!! Just think 2 more years and your an AARP member!!!! I love you tons, your my bestest friend and so much more!!!!!!!!!! Hope your day was great. Thank you for being such an amazing husband, dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend. YOU ARE THE BEST!

Sky's surgery

2010-01-08T13:58:00.002-07:00

What a day we had yesterday! Sky had to go down fasting which didn't make him happy at all!! We arrived at the clinic at 11:00 am and waited and waited and WAITED! He finally went in to be prepped at 1:30 and went in for surgery at 2:30. Then Dave and I waited and waited and WAITED till 5:00. Finally, Dr. Graff came out and told us that the initial hit to the eye actually did more damage than they first thought. Skyler now has an oil bubble, buckle, and fixed tears in his eye. The oil bubble will be in for 6-8 weeks. The dr. also said that the blow to his eye caused his lens to shift. So that will probably cause a cataract. When we finally got out of the clinic, we went to get something to eat and then went to Walgreens to get his prescriptions. By that time it was 8:00 pm, he had also developed a migraine besides having his eye hurting. So we decided to stay the night, and thought that would be better for Sky to not have to be cramped up in the little car. He didn't sleep well, but coming home he slept more.
Sky had a checkup with Dr. Blair in Show Low today, he had taken a Vicadine without eating, the nurse put a drop in his eye to check his eye pressure. Since he hadn't eaten he got really dizzy, he freaked out the nurse to say the least! They gave him some juice and granola bar. He was fine and Dr. Blair says everything looks great. He is optimistic that Skyler will be able to play next year with protective eyewear, of course.
He will be out of school till at least Tuesday or Wednesday, which really worries Sky because of missed assignments from his classes. I'm sure his teachers will understand.
Thanks to all for the thoughts and prayers, they were felt!!

BUMMER NEWS FOR SKYLER

2010-01-06T10:22:00.001-07:00

We just came back from Sky's eye appointment and found out his retina is detaching again and he has more tears in it. We have to go to Mesa tomorrow for emergency eye surgery. He can't finish the basketball season, which is such a bummer because he was going to play more:(
He is not very happy now, but to be apart of the team he is going to be their manager and hopefully will be able to at least workout in practice with them. It will only be low impact practicing but to be with the team is really important to him. He is such a trooper, we love him so much. Hopefully this little bump in the road will be a blessing in disguise! Don't know whats ahead for Sky, but he is taking it all in stride.

Grandma Burnham's 95th birthday

2009-12-28T12:27:00.000-07:00

This first picture is of me and my Grandma Burnham. We went to Mesa Saturday, and had a birthday party for her.
The second picture is of my mom, her siblings and my Grandma Burnham. There are two sister's missing, Shirley died when she was a few days old and my Aunt Marion died sometime back. My grandma is a fire cracker, she is still active and lives on her own. I love her so much!!! We had a nice time visiting family and meeting new cousins. I think my mom takes after her a lot, she is always doing things like sewing, community service or doing things for family.

OUR CHRISTMAS HOUSE!!!

2009-12-24T16:14:00.000-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-23T09:04:00.002-07:00

Wish I had some pictures to post but I have lost the disk that all of our family pictures were on and my little computer does not have away of downloading pictures either:( So just decided to post some happenings in our family.
Summer is doing well in Las Vegas. She is with her boyfriend that she met there in February. She did pass her Phlebotomy test in May and is still in the process of getting her Nevada license. She is anxious to start working. It's no fun not having any money! We worry about her being so far away but having Aunt Kandra 30 minutes away from her helps!
Autumn is loving not going to high school anymore, but is anxious to start some schooling in the near future at NPC. We just signed her up to take a 3 weekend course in preschooling. It is through the Yavapi college and will be held at the NPC here. She will miss 3 Sunday's, which bumms us, but know this will help her in the future. She is the young single adult rep for our ward, and is in the primary doing whatever they need her to do.
Skyler is just centimeters away from 6'6"!!! He really towers over me now and even his dad!!!! He has had some playtime on the basketball team. He is really learning to be aggresive.(It just isn't in his nature)! He is getting quite a few rebounds. He will have a lot easier school load this next semester, this last semester just about made him, and mom, go nuts!!!!
Hunter made the 7th grade basketball team! He is so excited, his best friend is the manager, and they can't wait for the first game. He is growing so fast now. I predict he will be towering over me in less than 2 years! He is such a ladies man, even though most of them come to him for boyfriend advice. He is doing well in school and is getting good grades.
Clay is enjoying 4th grade. His best friend Elysse is moving to PA on Christmas day, so he is kind of sad, but thinks he will survive! She was taller than him by 2 inches so now he will be back to being the tallest in his class. He makes friends so easily, and is popular in his class.
Dave and I have been so blessed to have such awesome children entrusted to us! We love them all so very much:)
Dave is going to take the big electrical test in January! Makes me nervous for him because it is such a dificult test. He is studying hard and trusts the Lord knows what's best for him. He loves going to work and really likes the people he works with. He will be going from a 4 on 4 off schedule to a 7 on 7 off next year! We are so excited, it will be a more steady schedule. It will be 7 days, 7 off, 7 nights, 7 off. We can plan for trips or activities better and have a consistant paycheck!
He keeps busy outside of work with bishopric, kids and lots of basketball games!
I'm keeping busy as a Domestic Goddess and love it!!! I really love this chapter in my life. I still have kids at home, but can leave for awhile if I need to. There are still challenges, especially with teenagers but I'm learning to trust my Heavenly Father that he won't give me anything I can't handle. I have been blessed with many wonderful friends and family that makes life so much easier!
I have 13 Beehives now and love everyone of them! They have so many personalities that make it very interesting. I also take tickets for the high school games which is fun and gives me alittle extra money.
Well guess I have rambled on too much now. We wish you the Merriest Christmas and Happy New Year!

ITS ABOUT TIME??!!!

2009-11-24T22:03:00.000-07:00

I guess I've put writing off long enough! Besides having major computer issues and everyday life, I guess I haven't felt like posting. So not much has happened since I last posted. Summer turned 21, I can't believe she is that old/young! Guess that makes me old! She is doing well, trying to get her Phlebotomy license for Nevada.
Autumn is doing a little babysitting for my nephew James' son. She really loves to watch him, he is such a cutie!!!She is wanting to move somewhere, Utah or Phoenix but not sure about jobs, or places to stay. I don't blame her, there's not alot of things for young adults around here.
Skyler made the basketball team!! He was at practice 2 weeks ago, they were doing a drill called Hamburger. Its a no rules drill to help them with players that play dirty. He had the ball in the air and alot of hands trying to get to him, being 6'5" he is the tallest on the team, the boys could only reach up to his face. One of them accidentally hit him in the eye. When I picked him up he was complaining that he couldn't see. The next day was Veteran's Day and luckily Dr. Blair was working that day in Snowflake. He got Skyler in right away, after some tests he sent Sky to Show Low to see Dr. Graff who is an eye surgeon. He had Sky in emergency laser surgery! Sure didn't see that coming(no pun intended).There was more damage than we thought. His retina was torn in 3 places and blood had collected in his eye. He has healed really well. He wasn't able to practice for 2 weeks, so won't play in the first game at least, maybe two. I'm hoping he will be able to play Dec. 9 so he can play against Heber:)
Hunter is doing well also, he will have basketball tryouts in a couple of weeks. He is still quite the ladies man. He has a ton of "sisters" in his group of friends.
Clay is also doing well, loves his school teacher. She is pretty amazing!!
David is trying to get his big electric test passed, it is a pretty intensive test. There are 150 questions in 6 categories. They take 125 of those and he needs to pass with 96. He took the first try in October and got 84. So he didn't pass, but he is studying with one of his co-workers who just passed it. He is really smart and is helping Dave alot!!!
I am staying busy with the family duties:) I'm still with the Beehive group, I now have 13 giggly girls that keep me young and updated on all the latest news in the entertainment and fashion industry!! Gotta love 'um.
Well better go, I think I have taken the whole page and your probably wondering when this will ever end. Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Especially to all of my family, I love you all so much!!!!!!!!

Girls Weekend in Vegas

2009-09-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

I don't have my pictures right now, but if you go to my sister's site (Owens family) you can see alot of what we did. I actually drove my car up there and took Autumn and my mom. Dave knew how blonde I am so he made sure that I had a GPS!! I have wanted one for along time. I drove all over Las Vegas and didn't get lost!!
When we got up there I went and got Summer, it was so good to see her! We stayed in a time share that my mom and Shannon have. It was really nice. Kristal came with her 2 girls, Shannon and her 3 girls, mom and Kandra, me and my 2 girls.
The first night we went to the pool and had pizza. Saturday, Summer and Autumn went over to Shannons room and helped watch the little girls so that we could go to the Temple. We did 45 inititories (sp?). What an amazing experience!!! The temple is so gorgeous, and to share this with my family was so neat. We all went bowling in the afternoon, it has been awhile since I've been, but we had a blast!!
That night we went to the Lion King. If you ever have the chance to go you better GO!!!!!! The costumes are so incredible, the imagination for putting the animals together is awesome!
Sunday, Shannon and her girls had to go back to St. George so the rest of us went to Kandra's ward. Then went back to her house for lunch. Mom, Kristal and her girls left for St. George to see Kristal's in-laws. Autumn and I took Summer back to her place and then went to Kandra's to babysit Gavin while they went to a special fireside for their stake. We had so much fun with the G-Man.
Monday, Autumn and I traveled the long road home. Thanks to my mom and sisters for an awesome weekend! May have to make it a couple of days longer next year:)

NEVER FORGET!!!

2009-09-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

I saw the video below and thought it was amazing!! My thoughts and prayers are with all the families whose loved ones were murdered 8 years ago today.
I just wanted thank all of those who are serving or have served in the Armed Forces. I respect you all so much and am so grateful I have my freedoms because of you!
I especially want to thank those in my ward, Justin Hall, Thomas Montoya,and Austin Gwynn, who have just recently joined. Thank you so much and also a huge thanks to their families for their sacrifice in sharing their loved ones to keep us free!

2009-09-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 13th BIRTHDAY HUNTER!!!! (Sept.6)

2009-09-05T10:17:00.000-07:00

Still don't have my big computer working so no pictures to embarrass you! I can't believe you are in the teenage club. You were the best early birthday gift ever!!! Thank you for being one amazing kid!!! We love you and hope your birthday is awesome!!!!!!!!

HERE WE GO AGAIN!!!!

2009-08-29T17:51:00.000-07:00

Well, school has once again started. Skyler is a freshman and is really liking it. He has made alot of Senior friends, lots of "girlfriends", and is doing well in his studies. He's anxiously waiting for open gym to start so he can start playing basketball. Hopefully they won't pass him up this year! He also just made it to Star ranking in Boy Scouts!!!!

Hunter is finally in the 7th grade. He has waited a very long time to be able to play football. His team has a record of one tie to St.Johns and one loss to Snowflake. He is working hard at practice and likes his coaches. They are alot different than the ones Skyler had!!! They are very encouraging and build the boys up. He has also started the process to the world of braces. He has an expander in the roof of his mouth, which will be there until December, then the braces. Not too much fun on that end.

Clay is in the 4th grade this year. We actually switched teacher's because the one he had Skyler had and I wasn't impressed with his teaching skills. The one he has now is Hunter's 4th grade teacher. She is so amazing. I love how she teaches the kids to be creative and to take on more responsibility for their work.

Autumn is trying to get into the work force!1 She was pretty burnt out on schooling so she is trying to get a job at a daycare center. She's also trying to get into a program that Summer is in through DES job services, they can help her financially. She will enroll in the January session for NPC.

I have renewed my volunteer paperwork so that I can help out at the Elementary School. They are desperate for lunch help. The teachers are doing it right now because of all the budget cuts, so they don't get a lunch. Then I will also help out a teacher in the 2nd grade. I'll do it about 2-3 times a week. I'm also taking tickets again. Not alot of money, but I really enjoy it! Dave is doing the chains for the JV football games when he is off work.
Hope everyone's school year is off to a good start!!

HAPPY 15TH BIRTHDAY SKYLER -(Aug. 18)

2009-08-17T16:00:00.000-07:00

I wish I could put some pictures up, but my main computer is out. Any how, I am so amazed that you are 15! It seems just like yesterday that I was pushing your 9lb 7 1/2oz body out!!! You had the biggest smile that would go from ear to ear! Your hair was platnum blonde and every girl would want it. Even though you are now 6'5" you will always be my Sky Boy!! Love ya lots

Thanks Bunches!!!!!!!!

2009-08-14T14:20:00.001-07:00

Man, I have the most awesomest friends and fellow bloggers!!!! I finally figured out how to show recent blog events! I feel empowered (even though it took FOREVER)! Thanks for coming through in my time of need. I knew I could count on you:)

Help!

2009-08-13T23:14:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to figure out how to put the updates on my friends and family list so that I don't have to keep going through the whole list to see new posts. Any step by step directions would be most appreciated!!!!!

CLAY HITS THE DOUBLE DIGITS!!!!!!

2009-08-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is 10 tomorrow! It has gone by so fast. I am so proud of you, Clay, you are such a good boy! Thanks for all of your love and kisses and being an awesome son.

Summertime news

2009-07-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

Well as you can see we have been busy, so I haven't blogged for awhile. Hunter made the 11-12 yr. old all stars!!! He played outfield and pitcher. The boys were awesome, we played in Taylor this year which was really nice. We ended up getting 2nd in Division. We beat out all of the White Mountain teams!! The team that beat us to win the championship was from Flagstaff. They were more like men-children than 12 year olds. They were huge compared to us. I am so proud of our boys, they always showed great sportsmanship!!!
Clay tried out for the 9-10 year old all stars but didn't make it. He needs one more year of fundamentals. He'll try out next year.
Skyler is hanging out with his friends, can't wait to be a freshman.
Autumn is visiting my sister, Kandra, in Las Vegas this week and will go stay with my brother, Lance and his family next week.
Summer is going to start looking for a job at the hospital in Vegas. She is doing well.
Dave is finishing up a 12hr/15 day straight stint. It will be great overtime (89 1/2hrs) but it sure is getting old fast. He is pretty busy with bishopric things too.
I'm just trying to stay sane in my old age. Hope your summer is going well!

Other happenings

2009-06-13T18:12:00.002-07:00

Autumn had an awesome graduation! It rained that day so they had it in the gym which was nice because we had seats that were to the side of her, so we got to see her the whole time! Boy, did it get hot in there! Thanks to all the family that came and endured the heat. We love you.
The boys finished up their baseball season. Clay's team ended up with a 1-12 season. Hunter ended with a 10-6 season. Just waiting to see if they make all stars.
We received some exciting news this week----SUMMER PASSED HER PHLEBOTOMY CLASS!!!!!
She is so excited, she can't wait to see what job she can get. We are so proud of her!

2009-06-13T18:12:00.001-07:00

FAMILY PICTURES

2009-06-13T17:48:00.000-07:00

My good friend Becky Montoya was awesome enough to take our pictures while Summer was home visiting!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!

2009-05-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

I wanted to wish my mom an awesome birthday tomorrow!!! You have been such a great support to me. Thank you for all you do, you are always there when I need you. Thank you for adopting me and loving me! Your the BEST!!

HAPPY GRADUATION AUTUMN

2009-05-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

We are so proud of you and all the hard work you put into graduating. Great things are heading your way. We love you!!!

HAPPY 18TH BIRTHDAY AUTUMN

2009-05-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday Autumn! I can't believe you are 18 already. You are such a beautiful, thoughtful and caring young woman. You have blossomed so much this year. Hope your day is a special one. We love you!!!!!!

Poor man 1 Thief 0

2009-04-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

Being the poor girl that I am, I finally won out! The police caught the people that broke into my car and several others in my neighborhood. It was actually a girl, she tried to use my Bank of America credit card at the Splash-N-Dash in Show Low. The card got stuck in the ATM and while she tried to get it back and try to use the other cards the surveillance camera caught her!!! She is 41 years old and was with a younger guy. The police sent me a victims right packet and informed me that she was in the County jail. A week later she was released on a $1,500 bond. I hope she has learned her lesson, I don't know of any court dates.
On to other things, I do need some help from my Valley girls or others who know the Valley well. I am taking my 10 Beehive girls to the Temple on June 6. They wanted to go to the visitors center and walk around the grounds. After that they wanted to do something like the zoo or museum. The zoo is a little pricey, but I can't find anything that isn't real pricey that they would enjoy. If any of you have some fun ideas please let me know ASAP! Thanks!!!!
We are all doing well. Autumn is so anxious for graduation! She will also be graduating from Seminary in May. She turns 18 on May 2, I can't believe it. She is planning on attending NPC to become a Preschool aide or teacher.
Summer is still waiting on her teacher to get her certification for Phlebotomy. She is living in Las Vegas and is hoping to get on with the hospital there. They have a $1,500 sign on bonus and will pay $14 an hour to start. My sister Kandra will be moving there in May so I hope that Summer can hang around her and not be so homesick!!
Hunter and Clay are in little league and are doing well. Clay is in the Minors league which scares him a little because the boys pitch now. I think he will be a great player. His first game is tonight. Don't know where he will play yet. He is hoping pitcher. Hunters first game is tomorrow, I think he will be catching, pitching, and outfielder. They both have great coaches.
Skyler is just trying to make it through the 8th grade. He enjoys most of his classes. He is ready to be in high school, I think.
Can't believe that Summer vacation is around the corner, it will be a busy one, but fun family time. Until next post take care!

LEARNING LESSONS THE HARD WAY

2009-03-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

Well this has been an interesting couple of days. I have learned two valuable lessons the hard way. Sunday night after returning from a fireside, I was getting out of my car and had the thought come into my head that I should take my purse in. I just decided to tuck my purse under the seat and locked the car. The next morning Dave came home after his night shift and asked if I had my purse in the car. I said yes and he said well you don't now. Sometime between 10:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. someone smashed my drivers side door and grabbed my purse. Dave called the Navajo County Sheriff, after Dave told them what happened they asked if we had reported it yet!DUH, that's why we are calling you. We had the sheriffs come out and filed a report. My cousin, Sarah, called to warn me about the break ins, I told her to late and she said she had also been robbed. They only stole her church bag that had a few diapers in it. We found out that there were 4 houses hit in my neighborhood. My credit cards can't be used (all maxed out) and they can't use my debit card or checks! So there's one up for the poor man!!
My two lessons I have learned is 1. ALWAYS listen to the promtings of the Spirit and 2. NEVER leave your purse in the car or at least leave the door unlocked to save on the window repair.

2009-03-14T14:10:00.001-07:00

1 minute, 6 seconds

RANDOMNESS

2009-03-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

Not a whole lot has been going on here but I haven't posted since last month. Yes, I am still here, thank goodness! My dad went to the doctors and found out that he has probably had this cancer for quite awhile. The calcium has not gone into the blood stream yet which is really good. They consider him at a level one. Which means they will monitor him for now. We are so grateful for this news.
Dad and Kristal just celebrated their birthdays yesterday. Hope they were good ones for both of them. Love you both tons.
Kids are doing well in school. Hunter brought the stomach flue home, Skyler got it the worst. He probably lost 10 pounds which is not good for him. He doesn't really have any room to lose weight.
Spring break is in a week so Autumn is going to the valley to stay with Dave's cousin Gina. She is so excited. Gina is one crazy girl and we love her!
Summer is just about finished with her Phelbotomy class. She is looking into hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes to work. We are very proud of her for finishing this, we know she truely loves it.

Special Valentines Weekend

2009-02-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

I have an amazing hubby! Last week we had to go pick up Autumn from my mom and dad's house in Heber because she had gone to a friends farewell in the valley and they were able to bring her home. Anyways, they were talking about the concert they were going to in St. George. Mom and dad had asked Summer if she would like to go too. My brother and 2 sisters were also going, so I was feeling abit left out, but not knowing, Dave had been talking to my mom to see if I could go. She called me late Wednesday and asked me if I wanted to go. I did but didn't want to leave Dave on Valentines weekend. He insisted that I go and spend sometime with Summer. I left with my parents, Kandra and her baby Gavin. We had a nice trip up. Summer had no idea that I was coming, and boy did I surprise the heck out of her!!!
We went to Marvin Goldstein's concert, how AMAZING! He is a pianist and can play thousands of songs by memory. He played different melodies of Sound of Music, Phantom of the Opera, and one other, he can transition into different songs and you can't even tell when one song ends and the other begins. I had so much fun and could have listened to him all night. He asked for requests of different songs, he wrote down about 15 and started playing them. He didn't have the sheet music for any of them, I have never seen such talent in my life. He has been performing for 50 years and is celebrating with a concert in Provo UT. on June 6, 2009. If any of you can go you will not be disappointed.
I was able to sleep over at Summer's apartment because they have a spare room. It was so fun to be there with her. She is doing really well in her Phlebotomy class. She loves it so much and is excited to get her career going.
We did have some shocking news about my dad last week also. He has Multiple Myeloma. It is a rare blood cancer that isn't really curable yet. His white cell count has been low for quite awhile now and the new doctor he just got ran some tests and had dad go in for a bone marrow biopsy. They believe they caught it early so they are hopeful that the procedures they do will give him more time. It will eventually take over his bones and his kidneys. He and mom go in next Monday to talk to the doctor about their treatment options. I love you dad and will be here anytime you need me!!!!
Also want to put a get well wish out for Kandra's father-in-law, Roger Owens, he had an accident recently and is in a back brace for awhile. We wish you all the best!
Hope everyone had a special Valentines Weekend.

Young Womens Program

2009-02-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

Just letting you know how New Beginnings went. I talked to one of my friends before the evening started and made arrangements for her to call and text me through out the evening. She did exactly that, I was getting so many dirty looks! Even Autumn, who was conducting, kept telling me to turn it off. My part wasn't until about the end of the program. I got up and started explaining what we do on Wednesday nights, when my friend called me. I got the phone out and pretended to talk to someone telling them that I was right in the middle of an important meeting. Everyone was like what the heck is she doing? After a few more rules, I brought the phone out again and explained how disrespectful it is to be texting during a lesson that the advisor had been trying to teach. I explained that I have a phone basket that has a suckers in it. If they give me the phone before the lesson starts they get the candy. It has been working out pretty well. I give them the phone back after class. Even the Stake President liked the idea when I told him about it!
After the program was over, the adults were quite impressed with how I presented my talk. So I guess it went really well. I stressed out for nothing!

YOUNG WOMEN-- NEW BEGINNINGS

2009-01-30T14:42:00.000-07:00

I need help! I am in charge of giving a talk at New Beginnings about the young women's program. I am supposed to talk about some of the "rules" that the girls need to be aware of. My problem is I don't want to come off as an ogre, or too soft that they don't get what I'm trying to accomplish. Any ideas out there? I have to give the talk this coming Wednesday!
I was thinking of having someone call and text me right in the middle of my talk and then say how hard it is for our teachers to teach when the girls are texting. I want it to be kind of a fun talk.

HOW MANY OF YOU ARE THERE OUT THERE?

2009-01-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There is
1
person with my name in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Rusty's Funeral

2009-01-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

First I want to thank everyone for their prayers and thoughtfulness. We as a family have truly been blessed by friends, church members, and those who knew Rusty but we didn't know. There has been so much service received to my parent-in-laws, we are so grateful and blessed!
The funeral was held this past Saturday, at our ward building. What a beautiful service, Dave's mom gave the life sketch and did such a wonderful job explaining some of the trials that Rusty had his whole life. She talked of how he loved going into the woods and just roaming. He loved to collect arrowheads, and just being in nature was such a joy to him.
Dave, Darren, DeeDee and our niece Charlotte sang Amazing Grace. I have never heard it sung the way they did. It sounded like the angels were there. I know I can be biased because they are my relatives but if you could hear it I think you would all agree!
Rusty's 3 kids talked and shared their memories with us. They did such an awesome job. They are doing as well as can be expected. I know they don't read my blog but just in case, I want them to know how much Dave and I love them. They are great kids. Dustin and Cassie have married really neat people that have carried them through this. Little Dave has great friends that we are also grateful for.
We had the burial in Alpine, it was such a beautiful day there, just like Rusty would have loved to be at.
We know that he is at peace, we have read many articles concerning suicide, and we know that our Heavenly Father is so merciful and loving. He is the only one who can do any judging. We are so blessed to have the gospel in our lives. Thank you again for all of your comments, I am so blessed to have all of you in our lives.

IN LOVING MEMORY

2009-01-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday afternoon Dave's older brother, Rusty, took his own life. He has been depressed but we had no idea how bad it had gotten. He was holding down a job and had an apartment. He had gone into work last week sick and decided to go home at half shift. When he went back the next day he was fired. I guess they were laying people off anyways and this was their way of doing it to Rusty. Then when he got to his apartment there was an eviction notice on the door. Dave and I didn't know any of this till we got to the hospital. He has had a pretty hard life and though a lot of it was caused by the decisions he made, he was still a big part of our family.
He was a really good uncle to our kids, and tried to be a good brother. I hope that he is finding peace now.
I hope that people will not judge his actions to take his life. He had to be feeling pretty desolate and alone to do something so drastic. He is a child of God and God is the only one who can know what was in his heart.
I feel so bad that I was critical of him at times, but Dave stood by him every step of the way. We loaned him money when we could and got him groceries if he needed it.
He will be greatly missed, and I hope that my family can take this and learn from it. I want us to be a more caring, thoughtful, service minded, and closer family.
Those who have shared their condolences already we so appreciate it. We love you all!
I hope this didn't sound to rambled but you know me and my thoughts!!?!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVE

2009-01-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

TODAY IS DAVE'S 47TH BIRTHDAY AND SINCE I DID THE 21 TRIBUTE FOR OUR ANNIVERSARY I THOUGHT I WOULD DO AN A-Z TRIBUTE.

1.AMAZING
2.AWESOME
3.BRAVE
4.BRILLIANT
5.CARING
6.COURAGEOUS
7.DEPENDABLE
8.DARING
9.EXCITING
10.ENTHUSIASTIC
11.FUN
12.FANTASTIC
13.GORGEOUS
14.GREAT
15.HANDSOME
16.HANDYMAN
17.INCREDIBLE
18.IMITATOR
19.JOKER
20.JOYFUL
21.KIND
22.KID
23.LISTENER
24.LIKABLE
25.MASCULINE
26.MACHO
27.NICE
28.NOBLE
29.OBEDIENT
30.OVERSEER
31.PRIESTHOOD
32.PATRIARCH
33.QUIET
34.QUACKY
35.REVERENT
36.RESPONSIBLE
37.SEXY
38.SIBLING
39.TERRIFIC
40.TEACHER
41.UNDERSTANDING
42.UNCLE
43.VENTUROUS
44.WITTY
45.X-TRODINARY
46.YOUTHFUL
47.ZESTY

MY EYES R GREEEEAAAAAAAT

2008-12-31T11:52:00.000-07:00

As I am writing this I am not wearing my glasses!!! My prescription is way to strong now!!! I am now legal to drive without the aid of glasses. I think I will still need to have glasses but they won't be near as strong. My old glasses are so blurry now, I can't believe the difference! I am so excited for this new change! You all have been so supportive, thank you so much!
I hope everyone of you has a wonderful and exciting New Year. I hope that it brings joy and much happiness to you and your families. Love ya all!!

21 AWESOME WEDDED YEARS!!!

2008-12-28T10:14:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is our 21st anniversary and I just want everyone to know how much I LOVE this AWESOME guy!!!!! Here are my 21 tributes to Dave:

1. Who else could put up with the "Queen of Blondes"?!
2. He is an AWESOME dad and husband!
3. He is so spiritual and holds his priesthood responsibilities sacred!
4. He treats me like a Queen and shows me that everyday!
5. He is a good provider for our family!
6. He is the biggest 46 year old kid I know!
7. He is so DANG handsome!!!!!!!
8. He is my safe haven and protector!
9. He is my best friend that I can tell things to no matter what it is!
10. He makes my heart jump a beat whenever I see him!
11. He cooks dinner often, and makes incredible meals!
12. He encourages me to be the best I can be!
13. He gives me massages and foot rubs!
14. He helps with the housework whenever he can!
15. He is the most kind hearted and sensitive person!
16. He really listens to me when I talk to him!
17. He gave me 5 awesome kids!
18. He is the funniest person and does great imitations of people!
19. He takes me out on date nights!
20. He is so Freakin handsome--did I already mention that?!
And last but not least
21. I LOVE YOU DAVID SKOUSEN, you are my world!! I am so blessed to have you in
my life!

No Surgery Tomorrow, BUMMER

2008-12-17T19:04:00.000-07:00

I was just informed today that my surgery had to be postponed because of the bad weather in Flagstaff. The doctor can't make it to Show Low so I did reschedule for December 30. I will have to go to Flagstaff again. Hopefully the weather will be good for me to travel in. I will update later!

Happenings

2008-12-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

I will be having cataract surgery on my left eye this coming Thursday. I am so excited to see if it will do the same thing the right eye did! It is so amazing to me to be able to see the clock from my bed or to see tv ads without glasses. I have really taken for granted my sight I guess.
Some bumming news for our Skyler. He tried out for the 8th grade basketball team this past week. He had gone to all of the open gyms they had and really worked hard. He got passed the first cuts and then got cut on the last one. I am really disappointed in the selection process. I know he is still trying to grow into his 6 foot 2 inch body and is still a little awkward but the boy is going to be at least 6 7" when he's through growing. He just needed the chance to be on the team to learn. He didn't need to be the starting player, he just wanted a chance. I had talked to one of the coaches last year when he didn't make it and he told me that if he made every open gym and tryout he would be on the team this year. I guess its who you are, which is really sad, especially for the kids like Skyler. He has been a real trooper about it, so I give him big kudos for that.
We finally got our Christmas tree up! The kids were a little miffed at me for not having it up on Thanksgiving day. Dave put some lights up outside so we that we won't be exiled by our neighborhood!
Hope your week goes well.

TWILIGHT

2008-12-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

Another Eye Update

2008-11-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

Well I had cataract surgery this past Tuesday in Flagstaff. It went way better than the last 2 surgeries I have had! I went to Dr. Blair and he said that my vision is now 20/30 in my right eye!!!!!!! I had been 20/200, and still am that way in my left eye. I have decided to have my left eye done now. There is a very high risk that it could detach also, but he thinks if we go in and tack everything down in my eye before the cataract surgery that it will have a better chance of not detaching. I can't tell you how exciting this is. I have worn glasses since I was in first grade and I have never been this low before. I can actually see the clock without my glasses on for the first time! I will let you all know more when I go in next week for my appointment.

My Castle Profile

2008-11-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

The Castle Personality Test

You have no problem diving into new experiences. You're so brave that you don't even notice how courageous you are.

You like to think that people see you as dramatic and fascinating. You do your best to seem mysterious.

You are a very romantic person. You can't help but see the world as it should be.

Right now, stress occasionally makes you feel trapped in your life. You usually have a clear perspective on things though!

Overall, your life is calm and steady. Not much stirs you, and each day is full of joy.

You feel like the fate of the future partially rests in your hands. You believe you need to help make the world a better place.

The Castle Personality Test