Saturday, May 30, 2009

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CASSIE!



Today is a anniversary of a birthday girl, who would be 20 today! This picture is a little out of season, but is great because she is w/Santa Dad! For the 11 years she was with us we are grateful for she taught us a lot about endurance and none of us can claim the right to "life isn't fair." She had a capacity for patience and joy (as "Santa" could make her giggle with joy!) We miss her, but rejoice that she is doing the things now that her physical limitations kept her from like talking, walking,dancing, singing and just rolling over. We love her and are grateful that her parents taught her so well. 'Til we have a reunion--Happy Birthday. Love, Grandma K

Monday, May 25, 2009

MEMORIAL DAY

Today is a beautiful 70+day! We don't get to many Memorial Days like this! (Does this mean 4th of July will be cold?) The cemetery was beautiful in the early morning and peaceful. It made me wonder what Cassie was doing today. Does she know that there is an empty spot in our family? Does she wonder how we can make so many mistakes? Does she know that love is eternal? Does she wait for us and wonder why we accomplish so many meaningless tasks? Does she know that her brief life touched so many? We love her and know that she has just gone on ahead--maybe to make our path easier. Will she be there to show us what to do and where to go? I truly hope so. We love you little Grand-daughter!

Sunday, May 10, 2009

HOW GRATEFUL I AM TO BE A MOM AND GRANDMA!

Thank you family for all you do. I appreciate being the Mom to such great kids and grandkids! We are truly blessed and Mother's Day makes me feel so unworthy of your applause. We had the opportunity of using your "slave labor" to accomplish a new "fire pit" (yeah! hot dog lovers) and add rock on the North side of the rose garden. Thanks to all involved! Love, Grandma K

Happy Mother's Day to Some of My Favorite Moms!

I have had such great examples in mothering, and I just wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to some of my favorites! (plus i saw this on my friend Tamara's blog, and i thought it fab, so thanks for the idea Tam!)
Mom-You are such a pillar of strength, determination, and devotion! You are the most Christ-like person I know, and you have gone through a lot! I have often wondered how differently my life would have turned out had you not recovered after Kelli's birth. I am so grateful that the Lord spared your life because he knew that I needed you! Thanks for being such a great mom! I love you!

Jeri is such an example to me. I remember being little and seeing her struggle to have children. When she was finally blessed with 3, she dedicated herself to them! She read books, attended classes, and truly has done a wonderful job raising her children! She has taught me through her example, and I am so glad to see that even through challenges she has NEVER given up! She is such an inspiration to me! I love you Jeri!

Kelly B. She has been such an example to me at NEVER complaining about the difficulties dealt her! She will NEVER know the impact that has had on ME and I'm sure everyone around her. I have also loved the talent for music she has passed down to each of her children. This talent has enriched and blessed my own life! I love you Kelly B!

Kelly F. has also been such a great example in motherhood. I have never seen someone SO devoted to everything that her children are involved in. She never misses a chance to cheer on her children in sports, especially! I love how she shows her dedication to them in their endeavors! I love you Kelly F!

Jana has almost been like a second mother to me. I remember when I was little, she would sometimes clean my room and help me with my homework. She has shown me a lot of great examples in motherhood, but the biggest one is that even when you're busy with several little ones, you can still serve others! She is constantly serving in the church, in her home, and in our extended family. What a blessing she is to me and to those around her! Thanks for showing me to serve! I love you Jana!

Lisa was also very mothering to me, even as a teenager. I remember sometimes her advice was the only advice I would take. She never gave up on me! She has also perserviered through several trials in having children. She is such a strong person! She does such a great job at balancing motherhood, work, and the church. It is truly inspiring how much she accomplishes! I am amazed she has any energy at all! I love you Lisa!

Wendy is one of the kindest people I've ever known. I honestly do not believe I have EVER heard her raise her voice to her children. She is patient, kind, and caring! She probably doesn't know this, but I often find myself TRYING so hard to speak in calm, quiet tones to McKay because I've seen her do it so often. It has really helped me to keep my temper in check. Thank you Wendy for being such an example to me! I love you!

Becky is the mover and shaker in our family! She is constantly working hard at everything she does. She juggles several jobs as well as motherhood, and she is ALWAYS up for pitching in wherever needed. I swear she has more energy sometimes than the energizer bunny! What a strong example of putting your shoulder to the wheel. In turn, she has taught her children to be such hard workers! What a blessing in their lives. Thanks Becky for showing me how to work hard for everything!

Marci is such an inspiration to me. When I think of someone who has gone through a lot of trials in life, I think of Marci. She has dealt with a lot, but she has always made it through! I am also so grateful for her knowledge and education. She is one of the first people I call when I have a question about McKay or when I need advice with him. She always takes the time to listen, even with her busy job, and I always appreciate it! I love you Marci!

Sonja has such fun, energetic kids! She does a lot of the parenting alone because of Laron's job. I have never heard her complain, ever! She has such a fun sense of humor, and her children are also funny! I also love that she has taught them to be independent, to come up with a way to solve the problems while she is working. She also runs such a successful business and balances motherhood! It is amazing to me that her house is not in shambles, but it never is! I love you Sonja!

Nichole is my current example of motherhood. I remember being pregnant with McKay and her being able to tell me things to try and to do. She is someone I call when McKay has a fever, gets a cut, or really, anything. She always seems to know the answers. She has such great kids, and I often try to be more like she is. She has also been there anytime I've needed help with McKay. She won't ever know how much I appreciate having her as an example and mentor! I love you Nichole!

Kelli is not quite a mother, yet, but I know that she will be a great mother! I have seen her help in so many ways not only with McKay, but with a lot of other children as well. She is such a quiet example, and I cannot wait to see her with her own children! She is such an inspirational person, and I consider her one of my best friends! I love you Kelli, and even though you're not a mom, I want you to know you make a difference in MY child's life, and it means a lot to me!
I hope that all of you wonderful women in my life have a Happy Mother's Day! I love you all, and I hope you realize how blessed and lucky I am to have your examples!
~Mikaela

Thursday, May 07, 2009

I HAVE TO POST THIS PICT OF GRANDPA!


Congrat! Jase!

Kind of sad that I haven't put Jase's great news on our blog: He going to Dominican Rep to serve a 2 yr mission! We are excited and happy for you! Love, Grandma K

Monday, May 04, 2009

'Tis Spring?

Wow! I just wonder when it's going to be spring! I just went out to check my roses and I pruned them when it was time--but, I think they've gotten some frost damage and hopefully, they will come out of it! I've quite a bit of yard work to do, but Jeri, Kelly B, and Becky came and cleaned up high(inside)--sure humbles one to have someone else clean their (your) messes. But, anyway THANKS!
I got a cortisone shot last Thursday and it hurt like a severe toothaches for several hours, but after I whined to the Dr. & got hydrocordone it has felt so much better. I told the doc to schedule surgery for June, but now I'm wondering if I'll keep feeling better...sure feels good to not be in pain! O-don't get old! Love, Grandma K

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

This and That

We were able to see Kyle and Caleb and Jana and Tom and their kids over conference. It is always really fun to spend time with family. We really have missed everyone since moving here to Utah. So if you haven't come down yet, come on down for a visit!

McKay had Spring break for 3 days ending on Monday. We are slowly getting back into a routine. I don't know why I don't want to get up in the mornings. I've always been a morning person.


Lately McKay's been locking Cici in rooms. Poor cat! This morning Charles found Cici in the garage, where she spent the night. McKay must've put her in there before he went to bed. This morning, he locked Cici in my bathroom. I was downstairs and I heard some thrashing around and the toilet lid slam down. I ran upstairs, and there she was! Last week, he locked her in the downstairs bathroom, and she used the sink as the facilities! YUCK!


So life is moving along for us. I just thought I'd say hello to the family. Also, has everyone gotten the picture information for the family pictures? If not, let me know!


I'll leave you with a cute picture of McKay, just because...well...he's cute!

Sunday, April 12, 2009

SUCH A BEAUTIFUL DAY!

Today was one of the most spiritual Sacrament/Testimony meetings I've been to! I loved the sweet spirit. Saturday, after moving Laron and Sonja into their new home, we had the traditional Easter get-to-gether @ Mark's. From the basket's of booty, there probably wasn't any left in the stores for anyone else! It was great to have Kortney and Jase there, home from BYU-I and Dane from China.

Today, Scott and Kelly hosted the Connell Tribe for ham dinner--yum-yum--that is, all except the Eskildsen's, who already had dinner guests coming! It was a day to count our blessings and to remember the great gift our Heavenly Father gave to us by allowing His Son to suffer and atone for me. For this, I can hardly comprehend, but I am grateful. Thanks family for your faithfulness! We love you--Mom

Monday, March 30, 2009

NO FAMILY EASTER @ GRANDMA K

Guess Grandma K is getting old!!! Anyway in lieu of the family getting together for our 5oth Anniversary in June, I've decided to cancel the Easter gathering. Do something fun as a family and hopefully it (Easter Party) will resume next year!
I'm not sure that spring is ever going to come??? Have a fun spring break!! We love ya 'all. Grandma K

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Whoo-hee!

Katelyn, you are just beautiful!--guess I'm a little prejudice, but WOW! And you looked so graceful and I was sure that you would win the physical fitness and poise! Guess it just wasn't to be--but you did us proud! Love, Grandma K

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Jr. Miss!






Hey family! Here are four of the million pictures from Jr. miss. I got to say it was one of the most funnest things I have done in a long time and I miss it alot. I come home from track practice thinking I need to go to Jr. miss practice. I miss it allot and enjoyed being with all of the girls and of course the ESCORTS!!!ha ha my escort was Blake Neilson. I won the talent award which i sang "For Good" from the Broadway musical Wicked. Thank you Kent for picking out the song and helping me with it. Thank you Nicole for helping me with my bio sheet and the scary interview. O and thank you Mikaela for helping me pick out my dress. Thank you grandma for letting me use your jewelry and stool for my talent.

Katelyn

Thursday, March 05, 2009

Slowing Down

Ray and I got back last week from a week in Utah, Idaho and Nevada. Spent a couple of days with Mikaela and Charles and that was fun to see how McKay has improved with his speech. We were able to go to UofU Girls BB game. Sorry Cyd didn't get to play, but was wonderful to visit with her and her famly (who were also there for the game.) Kris had his surgery and has arrived back in Utah--still with headaches, but we hope it is just the aftermath of the very invasive surgery on his neck--for now he has just traded one headed for another. The Dr. said it may be 6 months before he knows if the surgery has releaved the headaches.

It was good to sleep back in our own beds again. But, I've decided that Connell looks good compared to the middle of Nevada--I have a new concept of barren!

Saturday, February 28, 2009

MIKAELA!

I cant seem to read your blog. Im pretty sure I gave you my email adress. alanandkorrine@hotmail.com Anyways, I was trying to get to it today and it said private and that I didnt have permission. Add me! Thanks! Love you!

Korrine

Thursday, February 12, 2009

I Have The BEST Grandma and Grandpa!

Grandma and Grandpa-
I was so happy to receive your card in the mail today for Valentine's Day! I opened it right away! My mom told me to show her the card and the contents inside. I did that, but I covered my face in the process and then said "cheese"! I hope you enjoy my cute pictures, and I want to wish everyone in the family HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Love,
McKay (the favorite grandchild)








Thursday, February 05, 2009

Private!

Hi family! I just wanted to let you all know that I have made my personal blog private. You are all welcome to view it. If you would like an invitation, just email me (see the family phone list) and I will add your individual email, or you can just log into THIS family blog, as I have added it to the "safe to view" list. So again, I can add you individually, or you can just log into the rayknightfamily.blogspot.com addy and password and view it that way, if interested, I should say!

Thanks,
Mikaela

Thursday, January 29, 2009

MOre Pictures





These are a few more Pict: The first three are in Guatamala. Top one is a Spanish "Castle" on the Dulce River. It was built in 1595 by the Spanish to keep there "loot" in before sending to Spain and was called "Isabella" (after Queen Isabel). But, pirates tried to get the booty too and it was used to store the treasures and also to prison the pirates. Included cannons on top. The second pict is part of the group inside the castle. Next pict is taken from inside the van--we had to stop to let bananas cross the rode! The last is the "singing brothers" doing karaoke on the boat. Ask Mark about it! Oh, what fun, why did we have to come back to the cold!!

FUN-FUN-FUN



















Second picture was taken @Oak Plantation in New Orleans, where we met Scott and Kelli to go on a "Bayou" boat ride, then to the Plantation. We experienced Biegnet's for breakfast at Demonds in the French Quarter. Third pict is after a hour or more van ride in Belize and then 25 mi ride up the New River to Lamanai to see ruins. 1st Picture: Our ventursome group: Scott, Kelly, Mark, Wendy, Chris, Becky and Dewain and Lisa climbing the "pyramid"! @ Lamanai. In Cozamel Grandpa is "wearing a monkey"--who snatched his cochlear implant!!! We had a great trip. I'll include a few more picts later. Love, Grandma K

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

WE ARE Going SOUTH

I'm ready to leave cold Connell and head South. We should be in N Orlean by Thursday evening. Hoping to do some sightseeing and then leave on a Carribean Cruise the weekend. Wishing you could all come along. Love, Mom

Friday, January 09, 2009

2009 it's here!

Seems that Christmas came so fast and left just that way. We enjoyed baby blessings, Ordinations and lots of food and family. It was good to have the Stapleton's here for the season--we even got to the cabin thanks to Mark and his family and their snowmobiles! We almost needed snowmobiles to get around our yard!

The only bad thing was that Mikaela and Charles were not here. I kind of bailed out and had only a breakfast w/ marrieds and spouses--we missed Wendy and Sonja too, but it was fun and I had pressed my youngest "slave" and her husband into "combat" duty. Thanks to Nichole for the great "banditos" for place-cards.
As usual, Christmas was a busy busy afair, but it was one of the best thanks to Dave and Marci. We Missed Selbe's and Kyle's family. From what I've heard, I think that every Grandkid must have been EXTRA GOOD because I didn't hear of anyone left out!
We even got to sleep in until 8am--give you a few years and you can too! Love, Mom