New Year's Eve -2010

Another year has come and gone. It is now 10:30 p.m. and if you know me at all, you'll know that it is way past my bedtime. However, I was going to try and manage to stay up for the big moment. But I'm also quite sure that isn't going to happen. I've been up since 6:00 a.m. and am getting very tired. I'll admit that I'm not a spring chick anymore. More like a winter bear, wanting to hibernate. But before I begin my ritual of snoozing, it is time to wish each and everyone a very Happy New Year. I hope and pray that 2011 will bring you great joy and happiness.

Now for my top 10 Resolutions!
10. Smile at someone every day.
9. Be kinder than I was last year.
8. Keep my house clean.
7. Plant a new tree in the spring.
6. Put a new front door on the house.
5. Practice not having road rage (especially on I-215)
4. Spend more quality time with my hubby.
3. Lose 15 pounds (isn't that what all of us say for a Resolution).
2. Spend more time with my family (although we already do spend a great deal of time together.
1. Get out of debt!

I'll Be Home for Christmas!

As we go through life, we don't think much about being "home" until of course that time of year, when it's all about being "home". And then there's the music, and the movies, and the memories, and the magic. Well, Christmas is my favorite time of year, and as it is every year, I have a deep longing for home! And what is it exactly. Well it's the memories of course. And it's the dear loved ones that are there continually making those memories year after year. But then you realize they are not all there any more. Some have moved on, like me, and some have passed away. The trick is to keep those memories dear to your heart and pass them down from generation to generation. And hopefully, just hopefully, all those feelings of goodness and joy will come seeping through from generation to generation, passed down from ancestor to ancestor, reaching through time and binding us together forever.

Sentimental? Who me? Why of course! Isn't that my nature. And I wouldn't change that part of me for anything in this world. I am so grateful to my Father in Heaven for giving me that gift in my heart.

And as I'm sitting watching the many Christmas movies, feeling my sentimental self, one line in one of the movies goes something like this "that tree needs some Cape Breton starlight". And second movie I was watching has a line that mentions Nova Scotia. Looks like I'm not the only one out there with back east attachment.

Merry Christmas to all and may God Bless!

Guilt Trips

What is it about guilt trips? I think we are all "guilty" of them, pardon the pun. But I believe that most of us are not even aware that we use such a tactic to manipulate others to do what we want. For example, recently during an exchange with some loved ones of mine, (12 of them to be exact) a simple question was asked by one. I won't go into detail because I don't want to hash up any hard feelings, and I definitely don't want to start a war or be accused of having favorites. That is not me. But, a simple question was asked, a simple request was made. Then the answers started coming in. All that was needed was a simple answer....yes or no. What is it about us human beings that we just can't accept a simple yes or no? Why do we need to have a "yes I can because (and now you have to hear how wonderful I am because I am saying yes to your question)", or "no I can't because...(and now you have to hear all about how my life is so tragic/busy that I can't help out or do whatever it is that was asked in the first place)". I recently read an article which talked about ownership of our words. If I ask someone to do a favor for me and they say no, I need to accept the fact that they said no and leave it at that. I don't need to probe and over-analyze every thought that comes into my mind about why that person said no. I just need to accept the fact that they said no and move on with my life. It may have nothing to do with me and probably doesn't. The fact that they may be too busy, the fact that they may not want to participate, the fact that they may not want to use their allotment of time to do something that I want, is entirely THEIR choice and it should not upset or anger me in any way whatsoever. But most importantly, it should not reflect their feelings towards me. In other words, just because they say no, doesn't mean they have an ulterior motive and that they don't want to because they don't like me or they don't want to be around me. That is ridiculous. If they say yes, then all is well - right? I get what I want. It's when I don't get what I want, that the world turns upside down and we go into a tailspin.

It is true as we get older, that life takes on different and more difficult challenges. But just because every request can't be fit into everyone's schedules, especially the bigger the circle of friendships and families become, doesn't mean that everyone has a motive to participate or not participate in that request. It is what it is, and shouldn't be taken as a threat against the one making the request, and I hope that the person making the request understands that she is loved no matter what.

Oh how much energy and time we waste in trying to manipulate people into doing what WE want them to do. Instead of just asking, inviting and accepting. I have found that when I invite and ask, pleasantly, there is a much warmer spirit in my home and in my life. I admit it took me a long time to learn and understand this very important principle in human kindness. I ask, I invite, and I receive those who want to partake and we enjoy. For those who do not or cannot, there will be other opportunities and other moments to strengthen and bond family ties and friendships.

The Strangest People are at Walmart

Okay, so the McDonald's story reminded me of another time that I had a strange encounter. It was Christmas a few years back (don't you like how I sound all elderly and knowledgeable)and I had to pick up something at Walmart that I just could not find anywhere else. Yes, we've all been there. So I walk into the store and head directly for my destination. I know what I need, I know I only have one hour for lunch, and I know I need to hurry. So I find the coveted object to be purchased and tenderly wrapped to be opened on Christmas morning (I can't even remember for whom or what it was). A man walks directly up to me (I believe he was hispanic or something like that) and looks me right in the eye and says, "You would be one good looking woman if you lost 40 pounds." Well I just stood there with my mouth open and didn't quite know how to respond to that. Oh I could think of lots of things now as I look back on it, but I probably shouldn't post any of them. But my mother's words quickly come to mind..."If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all." I wish I'd said that! Why is it that I seem to attract these kind strangers? Or maybe it's that I bring out the worst/best in people. Sometimes leaving the house for me is like going on an adventure. I just never know...what next!

McDonald's Rage

This is a weird story. On my way to the bank, I stopped at McDonald's to get a drink. Now this particular McDonald's has two separate drive up lanes, side by side. I'm sure you've all seen them. Anyway, as I pulled up there was a van, followed by a car in the first lane, and the second one was empty. So naturally I pulled into the second one...I mean, who wouldn't right? So I pull up to the speaker just as the van was pulling out of the first lane. The "lady" in the car behind him then pulled up to give her order. However, I was already in the process of saying "one medium coke please". All of a sudden, I heard her screaming at the unsuspecting McDonald's employee, very loudly - "Hey you! I was here before "that" woman over there." I quickly look around and realize of course that she must have been talking about me, because I was the only other person there. So I continue on my merry way, feeling sorry for the employee who would have to deal with her rage. All I could think of was "Give that woman her food!" So I pull up to pay for my drink, and she comes flying up behind me, literally, doing at least 60 miles per hour to go only 10 feet. I thought I was a goner! Now I'm thinking this woman is not only hungry and desperately needs her McDonald's nourishment, but she is nuts! The best thing to do in a situation like this is TAKE OFF EH! So I purchase my drink and head out. I pull out onto Redwood Road and head south, because after all, I still need to hit the bank. About 2 yards before the bank's driveway, this crazy lady comes screaming down Redwood Road and cuts me off and pulls in front of me. She was laughing at me as if to say..."see, now I'm in front of you." And at that exact moment, I quickly turn right and pull into the bank. I turned to look at her and she was gesturing some kind of signal with her finger, I'm not sure what! But I walked into the bank with a smile on my face, and a gratitude in my heart, that I never leave the house hungry, only thirsty.

10 Things That Make Me Happy

#10 - Clean Sheets
There is nothing I like better than crawling into bed and snuggling into clean crisp sheets. I just lay there and get so excited, that I even get butterflies in my tummy. And I sleep so well on nights like that. Ahhhhh!

#9 - Sunday Drives
We don't do this as much as we used to, but I love love love Sunday drives, especially in the Fall. No TV, no house to clean, no meals to fix, just driving with the family. I find it very relaxing and I love having the opportunity to bond with the fam!

#8 - Rain
I love the rain. I love the feel of the rain on my face (oh I think that's a song), and love the smell of rain, and love the fresh feeling of rain. I love rainstorms, especially back east. They have the best rainstorms...Nova Scotia, Massachusetts and New Jersey!

#7 - Quilting
I love to quilt. I love to make quilts and give them away. It's an artful creation that I enjoy seeing in my mind, then putting together.

#6 - Painting
I have discovered a new love - oil painting. Who would have thought! But I can't get enough. I go to classes once a week and I wish it was 5 times a week.

#5 - Pajamas
One of my favorite things to do when I come home from work, whenever possible, is to climb into my pj's. Total comfort is what life is all about at those moments.

#4 - The Smell of Coconut
I spend a lot of time seeking out lotions and shampoos that smell like coconut. I love that smell, and I breath it in deeply when I use those products.

#3 - Scrapbooking and Pictures
I think these two go hand in hand, because I can't scrapbook without pictures. I take pictures whenever and wherever I go, and I am constantly writing stories in my mind as I am taking pictures.

#2 - MY CAT, TOPAZ!
I love my cat and he loves me. No, really he does! He is so spoiled and practically runs the house.

#1 - Cape Breton Island
My heart is there and always will be. I love my heritage and where I came from. My roots are deep in that island and my heart will forever long for its beauty and serenity.

So to sum things up, I would be at my happiest, cozied up in my pj's, somewhere on Cape Breton Island, painting a picture, while Topaz sits on my lap, and I had a coconut candle burning in the room, while NCIS is on the tv (snuck that one in there...I couldn't resist). Charlene is right, I had a hard time thinking about my favorite 10, but once I got started, I could have kept going and going and going.

Cape Breton Tear Jerker

My friend Myrna said to me on facebook, "go to my blog and see some pictures of Cape Breton and that will really make you cry for home." So I did. I watched this video and, yes I did cry, and want to get into the car and drive straight to where my heart lives. So what could I do but to snag it from her blog and put it on my blog also. Now I can watch it and cry everyday. What is it about Cape Breton Island? Once it gets into your heart and under your skin, it's there forever! And every time I drive home, it doesn't matter what part of Cape Breton Island I am on, it is HOME! As soon as I see the Causeway, I am HOME! There is a deep, strong heritage there and definitely a Welcome Mat for all. I absolutely love who I am and where I came from. I thank my Heavenly Father for giving me such a special and permanent ground for my heritage and who I am. I've often heard that "pictures don't do a place justice" but...what can I say. Cape Breton is not just a place, it's a state of mind, an inner peace. Maybe you have to be a Cape Bretoner to get it. This video is true to the core. I LOVE CAPE BRETON!

Bryant Turns 25 - February 24, 2010

A cake for Bryant and what else would it be....the Boston Red Sox. Made by his sweet wife Elisha, but Bryant says he made the "B".

Elisha's niece...her ONLY interest was the cat!


Bryant with Grandma Joyce and mother-in-law Geri. (Isn't that the coolest thing, he has 2 Grandmothers named Joyce. And here's another thing, this Grandma Joyce has a son named Gordon...so does the other!


Parker, Elisha's nephew couldn't wait to get into the "B" cake. He is very proud of his blue tongue.


Bryant and his good friend, Nolan.

Attempting to get a good picture of Bryant & Elisha. Nolan steps in...

Jake steps in...

And finally...thank you for your patience!

Bryant and Andrew (best buds and brothers).


Andrew and Nolan cutting the cake. Is there something wrong with this picture?

Hmmmm, we must always be joking around...

Bryant and Charlene ("Big Sister")

Bryant and neighbor Nick. Howdy neighbor! (Nick just had to have his picture taken too).

Bryant and Tricia - sweet little sister.

And then there's Jake. What is it with the Jake's in our family??? No problem here for Bryant, but...

Jake looks constipated! Hold on JAKE!!!

Bryant & Elisha's Wedding, Oct. 8, 2009

I need to step back in time for a moment, but not too far back. Since I am behind in posting, I thought I'd better get some wedding pictures on here. The day turned out beautiful for October and we couldn't have asked for anything better. Everyone was happy and this wedding was a blessing to both families. Welcome Elisha, our new daughter-in-law, into our family. We love you and hope that you feel as much a part of this family as we want you to be.


Just coming out of the temple, Elisha hugging her Mom.

Jake congratulating the groom.

Is that not the best look of relief on Bryant's face?

Families and friends.


The Brown Family - growing in numbers.

Bryant & Elisha with Bryant's Grandma & Grandpa Brown.

Ooo, la, la!



I LOVE this picture!

The wedding cake was gorgeous!

This is the quilt I made for Bryant & Elisha. I think it turned out pretty good!


The table centerpieces were beautiful.

Bryant, ever hungry, needed to eat before the reception got underway.

Handsome groom and groomsmen!

Spencer, all gussied up.

Thinking about Memories

Isn't thinking a wonderful thing? I find myself doing just that quite a bit lately. If I let myself, my thoughts wander to things of the past, memories almost forgotten. I also find myself in the present, thinking about ways to make memories for my loved ones. And then, just to keep myself from getting bored, I will allow my thinking to jump to the future, of dreams and hopes, always looking forward.

When my thoughts wander to the past, the first things that come to mind are family and friends. I don't remember, nor do I care to think about material things. Always people. That's me, I guess I'm just a people kind of person. Although, my thoughts do bring me to blueberries, and the Atlantic ocean, and roller skating, and shopping (there is always shopping in every thought). But even each of these brings a memory of someone dear.

Shopping - with my grandmother, affectionately known to everyone as Ma Gillard. How she loved to go to "the K-mart" on Friday nights! Before I left to pursue my own life, I spent a lot of time "shopping" with Ma. I can't ever remember her buying anything, but it was the highlight of her week to climb into my little Mustang Cobra and head to Sydney on Friday night. How many teenagers spend that kind of Friday night time with their grandma? Well...I wouldn't trade those moments for the entire world and so, I think about her often.

Blueberries - what can I say? It's almost a way of life in the summertime. But then there was the time that I had picked an entire roaster full (I used a roaster because I thought it would be easy to carry). It wasn't. I set it down and went to investigate a beautiful bush of berries that had just caught my eye. When I turned back, there was Pops, our loyal dog, eating the berries from the roaster. How he loved blueberries. But he liked them best when someone picked them for him.

The Atlantic ocean - I remember spending many, many moments standing on the cliff, just staring out over the Atlantic. My most vivid memory however, is the day I took my grandfather, Da Gillard to the hospital. As we pulled away from his house, he asked me to please stop the car for a minute. He got out of the car, and stood as close to the cliff as possible. He very carefully scanned the horizon of the Atlantic from his home, a scene I'm sure he wanted to impress into his memory forever. After a few minutes, he got back into the car and said, "I'm ready to go now." Da never came home again after that. When I have the opportunity to gaze out over the Atlantic, whenever I am home, I am brought back to that moment in time, and I can feel my grandfather standing beside me.

So many other memories also. I feel the need to start writing them down, to keep a journal of them. So this is my promise to myself, and to my children so that they will know who I was, who I am, and hopefully who I have yet to become.

25 Things About My Family...

Ok, so I saw this on Charlene's blog "25 Things About Me" and I thought this might be fun to do! But then as I started to think about it, I probably won't be able to think about "25 Things About Me". But I can definitely think about "25 Things About My Family". So I decided to change it up a bit. So here goes.

1. Our family consists of my husband and myself, four wonderful children, and two married in-law children.
2. We have a cat named Topaz, who thinks we all exist to please him.
3. We have a dog named Sammy, a black lab who we were told would be out of the puppy stage within 3 years. Going on six years, NOT HAPPENING!
4. My husband, Spencer is the best lighting designer in Utah!!! In fact, not just Utah but everywhere.
5. My daughter Charlene, married 5 1/2 years, is quite a crafter.
6. My son Bryant, married 3 months, wants to be a school teacher and will be great!
7. My son Andrew, 16 and learning to drive, AHHHHHH - can NEVER find anything to eat in the house ???? Go figure.
8. My daughter Tricia, 13 1/2 - loves loves loves to write and wants to be an author.
9. We love to spend time together as a family.
10. When a new movie comes on scene, we all MUST go together (as long as it's acceptable for all ages.)
11. Christmas is our favorite time of year and we MUST keep to our traditions - NO MATTER WHAT!
12. We all love the Gospel and work very hard to keep it foremost in our lives.
13. We love our friends and try to make them feel like they are an important part of our family.
14. We have an extended family member named Jake, who either adopted us or we adopted him. No matter, he's as important as the rest (along with his sweet wife Chante and baby Xan).
15. We love music and as a result, have a few musicians in the family.
16. The owners of one violin, one piano, two saxophones, a few guitars, a set of drums.
17. We lived in Massachusetts for 3 years (when Charlene & Bryant were young).
18. We lived in New Jersey for 9 years (where Andrew & Tricia were born).
19. We bought an old farmhouse in West Jordan, Utah and are enjoying its "personality".
20. I was born and raised on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia and am very proud of it.
21. Spencer was born in Pendleton, Oregon but raised in Utah.
22. Although we spend a lot of time with the daily routines of life, we always remember to say "I love you" and "You are important to us" to our children
23. We have tried to teach our children that the true mark of a disciple of Christ is how kind you treat others.
24. Sunday dinners and summer bbq's are the best.
25. WE LOVE OUR FAMILY MORE THAN ANYTHING IN THIS WORLD!

Procrastination!

So here it is, the end of January 2010 and I decided to take a look at my blog. According to my blog, I'm still in the Fall of 2009. I think I'd better get my act together and get posting....