My Old Friend

*Written in October 2014

I am laying on my bed surrounded by three of the most adorable fur-balls ever. Jazz, my very own senior dog (18 years and counting); Crazy a.k.a. The Vicious Licker and Buddy the Couch Critic. How did I get to be so lucky to share my life with them?

Each of them has their own unique personality and special quirks that make them even more loveable. Crazy will not eat a potato chip unless you dip it. Buddy is the sweetest, kindest dog unless he is behind a fence and you happen by our house.

And Jazz. My little circus dog who has lived beyond the last three Christmases even though odds were against her. She has been called a great many things; Jazz, Jasmine, Jazzy Girl, Skinny, Eeyore and Princess. She was chosen as the puppy we would keep from our dear Sadie's last litter before she was even born. Bryn asked if we could keep the runt and lucky for us it was Jazz.

She was supposed to be ours. No doubts about that. She quickly melted our hearts with her perfect puppy eyes and prance-y walk. She still prances around during bursts of happiness. It is during those moments that you would never believe she is 126 in human years.


















Most recently she has taken on the name "Old Friend". She greets me with the giddiness of a child being reunited with their mother after being "lost" at the grocery store. Her favorite place to be is, and always has been, wherever I am. She insists on having a meal promptly at 4:00 PM and any delays in that will be brought to your attention. She loves food, cuddles, sleeping under the covers, going on walks and treats.

Jazz is as much my child as the two I gave birth to. How does one feel this way about an animal? It is easier than you think. I watched her come into this world, bathed her, fed her, cleaned up her messes, potty trained her, held her, cleaned up some more. We have played, camped, cuddled and cuddled some more. I am not sure who enjoys the cuddles more, me or her.

****December 8, 2014
Kirk and I just returned from the garden where we have laid our old friend to rest. After several days of great discomfort we knew it was time to let her be at peace. I can picture her frolicking with Sadie and enjoying every minute of her reunion. How blessed we feel to have been the recipients of such unending love from this little gift. Jazzy Girl....we love you and can't wait to see you again.


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Location:N 300 E,Mapleton,United States

Watching

I am laying a well rested body into bed tonight and feel so grateful to have had such a peace-full weekend.

I did not shop or pack for this trip. I did not load the four wheelers or make sure all of the camping gear was there. This was all done by my sweetheart, and some help from the kids. I packed a bag with just the essentials and drove to a bit of heaven secreted in the beautiful mountain of Weber Canyon.

The next two days were spent visiting, laughing, riding, eating, napping, reading and the best part...watching.












I watched my dear in-laws enjoy their children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren as they tightened the bonds beyond just family into friendship. I watched my girls have a long-awaited cousin sleepover akin to those magical nights years ago when they would make their beds in the floor and talk and giggle until the wee hours of the morning.







I watched 15 pounds of bacon, seven dozen eggs and countless pancakes get gobbled up. The breakfast part of a Bertelsen campout is dripping in tradition, particularly on how and who should cook each item on the menu. One of my favorite things to watch is my sister-in-law's beautiful hands as she cooks the eggs and pancakes. I shared this secret with Bryn so she too could enjoy the view.

I watched the four generations enjoy all of the same things and learn many more things that will most likely become favorites too. My eyes welled with tears so many times as I watched this beautiful family that I am so blessed to be a part of, enjoy each other, pray for each other, tease each other.

It was a perfect weekend.

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Macaroni and Cheese Promptings

Today is Sunday.
My favorite day of the week.

Why is it my favorite day of the week? Well, it's a day of rest. An actual day that a good amount of people in the world believe we should "rest from our labors". A day that is different that the other six, stress-filled, I-can't-wait-to-get-home days of the week. For me that means, I don't need to face crowds at the store. I am not expected to drop everything and take care of a crisis at work. I don't need to participate in the hustle and bustle of the typical Monday through Friday craziness. It is a day to rest my weary brain and tired body in one way and a day to draw my focus to the most important things in my life; my family, my Heavenly Father, those dear friends of mine and even to me.

For someone else, it may mean something totally different.



For years my girls have boasted that I make the best homemade macaroni and cheese around. I, like many of their friends, believed them. I could be coaxed into boiling water, melting butter and grating cheese with the mere mention of my abilities in making this life changing dish. Friends would come from far (south of Center Street in Springville) and wide (Cedar Hills) just to partake of this amazing concoction.

One day, after stirring in the last bit of cheese, dishing up the bowls and sitting down to enjoy my macaroni and cheese, I wondered out loud, "Why do we like this?" The look of utter shock was on their faces! Bryn quickly said, "What? Because it's cheesy and creamy and... Why would you ask that?"

There are not a lot of times I can think of in my life that I wanted to dig deeper than the surface of a situation. I am a 'roll with it' kind of gal and it has served me well. But, at that moment, something in me wanted to know more. Why did we like it? Was it the way it felt on our tongue? The salty, creamy comfort of the melted cheese? Did we like it just because we have liked it for a long time or because there was something about it that made our life better, something to look forward to.

I just finished a bowl of my world famous dish (it was wonderful) and caught myself thinking about that day a few years ago when I asked the question, why? At the time I almost felt guilty for asking. How could anyone question such a precious tradition? Maybe it's just my age, (which of course brings much more wisdom) but lately I find myself asking 'Why?' even more. To have a sure knowledge of my interests, my dreams and purpose. My macaroni and cheese seems to be prompting me to dig a little deeper.

So.....here goes....

Sunday is my favorite day of the week. It helps me feel rejuvenated and ready to meet Monday head on. I love seeing my adorable primary kids and hearing about the best part of their week and trying to plant a seed of my testimony somewhere inside them. I love planning a family dinner and laughing and talking together with those that I love so much. I even love football with my man! I look forward to solitude and thoughtfulness. I look forward to a nap and a good book and reminiscing about those who are gone. I love long rides in the canyon, sitting on the patio and even listening the the clock tick tock in the quiet living room.

I love Sundays.

For those who would like to make the worlds best macaroni and cheese, i share my top secret recipe:

1.5 lbs. elbow macaroni, cooked and drained

Sauce:
1 cube butter
1/2 C. Flour
2 C. Milk
2 C. Diced sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 C. Grated pecorino romano cheese

While macaroni is cooking, melt butter in saucepan, stirring constantly over medium heat. Let butter brown or caramelize slightly. Whisk in flour and continue to stir as you slowly add milk. Lower heat and let simmer. Add cheeses and continue to stir. Drain noodles when they are done and place back in pot. Pour cheese sauce over noodles and stir to combine. Let macaroni cool for five minutes before serving. Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired.


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Happy Birthday Beautiful!

Our lives changed forever 27 years ago when this amazing little soul arrived. Dani Lou; soft spoken (don't let that fool you), animal loving, creative, brilliant, inspiring, lover of Steve, world traveling, tender hearted, diligent, determined, big sister to Bryn, sun loving sweetheart.

She has taught me how to follow your dreams, make goals, be open minded and most importantly, to love unconditionally. The best thing she ever did for me was make me her mom.

Love you so much Lou!





























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What's For Dinner? Pasta Caprese Salad

I couldn't help it..... I had to satisfy a craving for my favorite summertime staple, Caprese, beautiful tomatoes, real mozzarella and fresh basil topped with olive oil, sea salt and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Nothing tastes more like summer.



How do you recreate summer in the middle of January? Here's my recipe....let me know what you think.

16 oz. Bowtie pasta cooked, cooled under cold running water and drained.
1 cup grape tomatoes
1 12 oz package fresh mozzarella balls
4 cups fresh spinach/kale blend (in lettuce section)
4-6 fresh basil leaves washed, dried and sliced up
1 cup Gena's "Life Changing Dressing"* (recipe below)
Salt and pepper to taste

Toss together and enjoy!

Gena's Life Changing Dressing

1/3 cup lemon juice
1 T fresh minced garlic
2 T white sugar
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup good olive oil
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup Kraft grated Parmesan cheese

Mix well and enjoy on everything from salad to pasta or as a dip for some great crusty bread. Store in refrigerator.

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My Girl....Happy Birthday Bryn

Each day I like to post something inspiring, something that sparks an emotion, a giggle, a smile, thoughtfulness. Something that makes the world different and hopefully better for those who see it. Most of the time it is some simple quote or picture shared on facebook. When time allows I'll put my thoughts down here, on my blog.

My inspiration today, and most days, arrived exactly 24 years ago in the form of a squishy little pink bundle that has forever changed my world.















Kirk and I had chosen the name of Brandi for her and we had spoken her name often as the due date arrived. It was engraved in our minds. Imagine my surprise when I learned that Kirk and His sister Peg had decided this little sweetheart could not be named after an alcoholic beverage and thus changed her name whilst I slumbered in the hospital. She would now be known as Bryndi.

I had not heard this name before, nor had Peg or Kirk. They said they made it up. It was unique, beautiful and one in a million. It was definitely the right name for her. She has been called Bryndi, Bryndi Boo, Boo Girl, and most ironically, Boozer. So much for being non-alcoholic.

The girl can do just about anything she puts her mind to. She has danced since the age of two and even taught dance for a few years for Orem Recreation. She took gymnastics for a few weeks, okay, maybe a whole semester, and claims she won a blue ribbon because of her skill;). She played soccer for many years during grade school, played the piano and the recorder and went on to simplify different songs for her 4th grade class so they could play them on their recorders. She was even asked to play a solo at an assembly.

Bryn won the DARE essay contest in fifth grade and participated in the science fair where her and her friend Kimmy showed off two bunnies and made a poster all about how often they reproduced. We were so proud as we watched other parents come through and read the poster and giggle. Bryn excelled in socialization in school.....really....grades, not so good. Friends, EVERWHERE!

She joined the FFA in her sophomore year and absolutely loved it. She raised a lamb for auction, served as the recorder and was even chosen as the FFA Sweetheart her senior year. No one was more shocked than Bryn! It was beautiful.

Bryn has been a nanny for two of the most adorable faux-grandchildren anyone could ask for, a CNA, worked at a gas station, a restaurant as a waitress, a dance teacher, a receptionist, done medical records, and is currently preparing to take her test to be licensed as a Master Esthetician. Just imagine what she can accomplish in the next 24 years!

I love this girl! I love watching her become such an amazing example to so many. I love how she inspires me, sometimes with anger, mostly with her passion and love.


Here's to your year Boo!

Thanks A Million....And More!

What a beautiful Saturday it has been. Lots of laughing, laundry and lounging. I have needed this day for way too long.



I have actually had the last three days off of work and today is the first calming and relaxing day of them all. Of course, the two days leading up to that were sheer craziness as we (me and the most amazing staff and volunteers you could ask for) made all the preparations for the big New Year's Eve dance. By Tuesday afternoon we had made 12 gallons of salsa, 8 gallons of pasta salad, cooked 24 pounds of chicken breasts and made 6 gallons of chicken salad for more than 300 croissant sandwiches not to mention all the veggies, cookies and punch.

The volunteer dance committee, Bob and Judy Womack, Kitty Bair, Debera and Rich Hill and Noreen Hansen, decorated tables with confetti and balloons and made the ballroom look like a million bucks. My service workers, Debbie Robinson and Larry Martin, are so much more than I could have ever hoped for. Debbie is a natural in the kitchen and I told her we could probably go into he catering business together after this last week! Larry has a way of making sure every last detail is taken care of which puts all of us at ease. Else Morgan manned the front desk while her husband David pretended to be the "bouncer".

The bottom line..... I could not have accomplished any of this without them! In fact, I depend on them daily to keep the Orem Senior Friendship Center running smoothly and me from the edge of insanity.

How do you thank these people for all that they do? I'm not sure but I am open to suggestions!


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Right Back Where I Started From

One year ago today, I began a beautiful journey at the Orem Senior Friendship Center. And what a ride it has been!

I was recently pondering the pathway that led me to my dream job when I realized, "I'm right back where I started from!" Eighteen years ago I jumped into the job force when both of the girls were in school. I was lucky enough to get hired with Community Action Services, a wonderful program that helps those in need, especially seniors, with things such as food, tax services and utility help. One of my duties in my 20 hour work week was to spend a few hours at the Orem Senior Friendship Center helping the seniors with tax abatement forms. The office I used while there each week is just down the hall from my current "resting place".

Wow! Eighteen years!

Every opportunity I have taken from that starting point has been blessed with the association of senior citizens whether serving them or teaching them as they serve others.

I have learned so much from them and I look forward to many exciting adventures in the coming years.

I am right where I belong and it feels wonderful.






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Life in The Fast Lane

Where has the time gone? Is it really January 1, 2014? How did this happen?


Have you ever been so totally exhausted, mentally and physically, that when you get home, pull into the garage, turn the car off and walk in the house you wonder how you even got there? Like, you cannot even remember driving home? I have more of those days in the last two months than I care to divulge.

I am thoroughly enjoying spending my days at the Orem Senior Friendship Center and find myself loving these people more and more every day. I find so much inspiration, beauty, determination and honor in their actions, words and laughter. They continually teach me to be more patient, more understanding, more gentle and more than what I am today. I am so grateful for those lessons.

There is a wonderful quote that speaks so deeply to me; "When a passion and a career come together, it is a beautiful thing." I have not felt this fulfilled in any other job since being in the throes of raising the girls. It is exciting, crazy, difficult, lightening fast, ever changing, on the tips of your toes, out of breath beauty. 92.7% of the time it is perfect. It's the 7.3% that is giving me a run for my money. Add one little sprinkle of menopause into the mixture and I believe it is what a Weather Man calls "The Perfect Storm".

I find myself asking Heavenly Father to just give me a minute to breathe; please let my brain shut down; please. Unfortunately, these prayers have not been answered quite yet which also signifies that I have not learned whatever it is that I need to learn. Sigh.....


So, how do I catch my breath? That has been the question plaguing my mind for quite some time. I can lay in bed, even with the mental and physical fatigue, combined with a good dose of ambien, and still think of 13 things I need to do in the morning when I show up at work, what will I make for dinner tomorrow and do I need to get something out of the freezer? Pray. Just pray. I decided to try thanking Heavenly Father for everything I have been blessed with. Have you heard that question, "What if you woke up tomorrow with only the things you thanked Heavenly Father for tonight."? So I tried this. Several times. Turns out a bit like this... "Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for Kirk, he is my love and I don't know what I would do without him. I am so thankful for Dani and Steven and Bryn and even my cute grand-dog Hank. I am thankful for Crazy and Jazz and especially Buddy, he just makes me smile. I am thankful for the jobs we have been blessed with and that we are able to live in the Non'ts home. I am so thankful for our ward and the Amazing people we have here. I am thankful for the trees because they give us such beauty and shade and....oh, I've got to remember to put the leaf rakes away.....oh, and bag the patio furniture pillows up for the winter and...wait, wait.... I am so thankful for the blessing of having enough food...crap, did I get that casserole dish out of the garage fridge? I cannot believe I have forgotten that again! I will get it tomorrow, when I start the washing machine for the third time with the same load of clothes in it.

Am I the only one?!!

So......I have started my own mind control program. Have I mentioned that I am a control freak? If not......news flash.....I am. My program consists of me......trying to control my mind. So far things are not really going according to plans. Actually, I haven't been able to stop my thoughts long enough to introduce the "Plan" to myself. Truth be told....I am not even sure there is a "Plan". It all sounds really good....and controlled.....but, it's not.

I have read several articles about reducing stress in your life and the following remedies have been suggested; long, warm baths, aroma-therapy, read, write in a gratitude journal, breathe deeply, go outside.

After compiling this list I realized that I could take a nice, warm bath with some of those Dr. Teal's lavender bath salts wafting through the air providing a sense of calm. While relaxing in the tub I will read this month's Country Living magazine which will inspire me to jot down some wonderful things that I am grateful for. Afterwards, I will take some deep breaths, walk outside and realize that I have yet to cover the patio cushions for the winter. Clearly, this is not going to work for me.

Fortunately, I have been blessed with an amazing hubby, fantastic kids and a couple of furry friends that welcome me home no matter what.

I am so excited for the possibilities of 2014. I am certain I will find plenty of crazy days but I am also certain that everything happens for a reason.






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