Going to Girls Camp

Lucky me!  I still get to go to Girls' Camp this next summer!  I was just called to be one of the SYL Leaders!  I am so excited; SYL girls are the bubbles, the happy greeters, the goofy cheerleaders, the more mature examples, the spiritual leaders, the big sisters, the pranksters, the fun each year at camp!  Evan has already agreed to be our chef, so I can focus on other matters.  I get to serve with one of the most amazing ladies in our stake.  I nearly jumped out of my chair with excitement when I was asked to serve.  I've already got my camp ideas turning around in my head.  So much fun!  I LOVE GIRLS' CAMP!

The Stockings Are Hung

It's been a crazy holiday season already and not in the usual way.  It all began the weekend prior to Thanksgiving when the old furnace at Panaca Elementary caught on fire.  Fortunately, no one was there.  School was cancelled for two days for cleaning up the grimy soot which was belched out through the duct work.  What a mess!!  Everything was covered, but we had to clean it up for school to be back in session the following Monday.  Meanwhile, push came to shove with contractors, insurance, administration, and a principal who really looks out for the best interest of his students and faculty--and we were finally granted the powerful "Certification of Occupancy" for our brand new school.  The insurance company came in and completed our work, boxed up our belongings and moved each classroom, one by one, into the new building.  I came home from Thanksgiving in St. George to over 100 boxes in an empty classroom.  It was overwhelming, but what else could we do, but get to work.  We've been in our beautiful new school for a week now and things are slowly getting organized.  We feel so very lucky to have a new school.  There is still so much I need to do to get myself organized, but I am looking forward to Christmas Break when I can rest up and enjoy the simple pleasures of home, holidays, and family.  The whole cleaning up of things covered in ashes and soot has cured me of the traditional entrance for Santa.  I'm totally fine with him using the front door this year!

Our Turkey Turns 15 Today

It was Thanksgiving Day fifteen years ago when I woke up early in the morning with what I thought were contractions.  (It had been over 5 years since having a baby, and nothing had happened naturally then).  I didn't want to wake anyone up, so I showered and tried to go back to sleep.  Still uncomfortable and feeling them nearly 5 minutes apart, I finally called the hospital around 9 am.  The nurse said to get in right away.  Taylor was born around 11:45 am before any of the football games or Thanksgiving dinners were ready.  It was perfect timing and so typical of her little personality.  She still likes to get up early, and time management is of utmost importance to her.  We felt very blessed after such a long span to have a perfectly round little baby in our arms once again.  She reminded me of a butterball turkey when the nurse handed her to me all wrapped up tight.  That evening as everyone had gone back to their houses to enjoy their Thanksgiving dinners, I was left alone to cuddle my new baby.  I had a window in my room looking across to the St. George Temple.  As I looked across and saw it all lit up, I wept with such gratitude and happiness to be so blessed.  Happy Birthday, Taylor aka "Chicka". . . our lives are still so blessed with you in them!

Total Gleeks

Evan and I have become total GLEEKS!  He was hooked last season, but I didn't feel I had time to watch something every week.  Whitney would come home and play the reruns and music from each episode and I enjoyed it.  It almost makes me wish I could go back to high school and perform again.  Sue Sylvester says things that I wish I could say and get away with!  Dinner and homework now revolve around Glee on Tuesday nights!  I guess you could say we're definitely GLEEKS!

Though I have never claimed to have any musical talent, I do enjoy singing for fun.  The first singing group I was a part of was during Jr. High.  Mr. Coleman, our beloved band teacher wanted to start up a mixed choir.  Since there weren't any interested boys, he made a group called Girls Glee.  We sang all the sappy songs girls would cry over like Carpenters, Grease tunes, and Barry Manilow hits.  We had great fun!  Then I tried Chamber Choir in high school which was a lot of fun, but very serious.  At Dixie College, I was in Program Bureau which was completely fun and a welcomed break from the academics.  It was under the direction of Roene DiFiore.  Anyone could join (talent or not) and we never looked at a sheet of music.  Occasionally she'd write words in chalk on the blackboard, but we mostly just sang and caught on to the songs easily since they were catchy and upbeat tunes from long ago.  We performed for college functions, community banquets, care centers, grand openings, weddings, holidays, you name it. . . Program Bureau was there with bells on to entertain.  Many a match was made in Program Bureau!  We all LOVED Mrs. D.  To me, she was one of many people who made my Dixie experience amazing and memorable.

Thank You Veterans

I've been telling my students about Veterans this week in preparation for an essay contest and an assembly.  I remember in my youth seeing Veterans Day Assemblies each year, but not really understanding and certainly not appreciating what they represent.  Evan and I were privileged to chaperone 6th graders twice in the last few years to Arlington Cemetery for decorating headstones of Veterans.  We went in December 2007 with Taylor's class and again in 2009 with Abby's.  I would love to go again to spend more time seeing historic sites.  It was a humbling, sacred, and honorable experience for me.

Taylor looking at thousands of names on Vietnam Wall.

Washington Monument in background.

Taylor in the Korean War Memorial gardens.

Arlington Cemetery-Wreaths Across America

Abby at the Vietnam Wall. (above)

Placing another wreath at Arlington. (below)

My paternal grandfather served in the Army as well as my father and several uncles.  My brother and nephew served in the Marines.  They were some of the fortunate ones who were able to come home to tell of their experiences.  I wish I had pics to post of all of them, but at the time, I only have one representing the Rosie Riveters of the day.

 When I truly think about the sacrifices made by our forefathers and their families for our country's causes, I feel deep gratitude and love for them whether I knew them or not.  I was thinking of my immediate family who have served.  My maternal grandfather served in the Navy while my grandmother became a "Rosie Riveter" helping the cause at home. I am thankful for all Veterans past and present.

Girls Weekend

After talking about it for five years or more, Sue, Dana, Mom and I set a date for a mother-daughter weekend.  We spent the weekend at a spa/resort in Scottsdale, AZ.  It was our first annual Girls Weekend!  It was a wonderful get-a-way for all of us!  Sue flew in from California, Dana from SLC, and Mom and I from Las Vegas.

Day one:  Work-out, breakfast, shopping, lunch, movie, more shopping, and dinner.
Day two:  Spa treatments, pool, sun, lunch, more pool, sun, reading, naps, elegant dining, and another movie.
Day three:  Bicycle rides around the resort, along the rivers and golf course. 
Our four-course meal was delicious.  It was sweet to have a peaceful and quiet dining experience without being in a hurry or wondering when the waiter or food would arrive.  My sisters and mother behaved appropriately as well, so that was a unique dining experience!  (he he....had to through that in)

Thanks to my world traveling sisters, Dana & Sue, I have now discovered two more fun stores for retail therapy.  Sue introduced us to Charming Charlie, a colorful shop for every kind of accessory a girl could ever imagine--in every color and size--at very reasonable prices!  Dana introduced us to LUSH, a delectable shop of all natural bath and body products which are amazing.  Walking in, you'd think you were in a sweets shop.  All the products we tried were incredibly moisturizingvarious (No wonder they have a store in the hot desert of Arizona!) Many of their products are sold by the pound like a fudge shop!   We also shopped at H & M which is about the only store I know where I can still find clothing that my picky girls will like without seeing first!  I bought more for them than anyone else!  Such a mom thing to do! 

Ahhhhh!  89 degree weather in October is like a boost of endorphins straight to my brain!  Loved it!  We visited, laughed, and totally relaxed together.  Is it good for man to be alone?  No, but a little break now and again makes for a strong and lasting marriage!  Same time next year girls, no matter what!!

More Surprises for Bro and Sis Schimbeck

Shock! Surprise! Evan has been released as Scoutmaster after much murmuring and whining! We have been called to serve together as the Ward Nursery Leaders! The last and only time we've served together was 19 years ago while living in Cedar City. We taught a Primary class and loved it. The last time I was in Nursery was when Taylor was a toddler (14 yrs ago). This will be a big change for us, but a fun one. We are both excited to play blocks, cook, read, and many more imaginative games. We want to create a friendly environment where toddlers love to hang out and learn about simple gospel truths while their parents are teaching. Evan is excited about wrestling with the boys and snacktime. I am excited to read to little ones who still want to sit on my lap and hear stories. (I'll have to remind Evan about what's appropriate for church and the age level!)

Future Elementary Teacher

This is Whitney--about 13 years ago--in 2nd grade. We are so proud of her accomplishments at Dixie State College. She is in her first year of the education program and spends each Wednesday in a 2nd grade classroom as part of her practicum experience. I love hearing her stories from the fresh perspective of a new teacher. It's enlightening and reminds me of why I chose this profession for myself. She phoned with good news today. She's been asked to be a note taker for a student in the program who has cerebral palsy. Basically, she'll get paid by the school for taking notes in class which will benefit her classmate as well as herself. What a blessing and opportunity! I've seen her notes; they are beautifully organized, descriptive, and useful. Whitney is such a joy! She is responsible, wise with her money, disciplined with her studies, spiritually balanced, and happy. I am so thankful to have her for a daughter. It seems like yesterday she was in 2nd grade losing her first tooth, and yet she's a mature adult now. We love the weekends when she is home; we all feel complete when we're together as a family!

A Glimpse of Halloween Past

Halloween is here again. Evan and Taylor are usually more excited to get the Fall decorations out and carve pumpkins than the rest of us. (Abby and I get more excited about warm weather months that involve sun and water.) Evan, Taylor and Abby are out deer hunting as I sit here alone tonight blogging, but I'm okay with that! As I reminisce through family scrapbooks, I kind of miss the days when the girls were little and we'd take them out around the neighborhood trick-or-treating. This year, I haven't purchased any candy yet and would rather not work the annual Halloween carnival at the school. I'm tempted to turn all the lights out and not be home, but I don't think I could get away with that where I live.

Meet the New Ward Activities Director

I'm so excited and relieved to finally know what my next church calling is.  Bishop said we needed a "party girl" in this calling.  (He meant that in a good way!)  This is right up there on my top five favorite callings!  The biggest activity of the year, which brings out many members and nonmembers alike, is the annual Christmas dinner.  My wheels are already turning with ideas, decorations, food, and entertainment!  What fun this will be!  I just need to select some "party animals" from our ward to complete a committee and make it awesome!  Sure wish my talented mother-in-law, sisters, and sister-in-laws were in the ward...then it would be a snap!  My motto will be:  Friendly, festive, and fun for all families!

Shakespeare, Schultz, and Student Council

Our little freshman, Taylor, has been very busy lately. We encouraged her to get involved, so she jumped into dance and drama with both feet. She learned leadership skills through student council responsibilities during homecoming week. The annual Renaissance Feast is the Drama Club's entertaining fundraiser. She dressed as a wench and enjoyed serving the guests inspite of flying grapes everywhere!

Not wanting to try out for the play, she was asked to assist and given the title of "Prop Mistress".  She was in charge of keeping track of the props, helping with scenery, and the set up and take down between the scenes.  The play was, "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown".  Cousin Aryn was the co-director and did a great job.  It was a funny play and Taylor enjoyed her experience. 

The Drama Club heads for Las Vegas next week to see Phantom of the Opera.  She is learning to manage her time to keep up with her homework and extra-curricular activities, but she is glad to be focused on dance now.  Aunt Mindy has formed a dance team called Team Elite.  She will have her first performance at the next home football game.  There have been more trips to Panaca this year, but we enjoy seeing her involvement in these areas. 

Good-Bye Young Women

This past Sunday, I was released as Young Women's President in our ward.  I was surprised and shocked.  Still am.  In the nine years we've lived in Caliente, I've served in the YW's program nearly six years with the exception of a few years in the Primary.  It hasn't been quite a year since I was made President, and though I initially felt very inadequate, I have managed the calling and found joy in doing so, but changes have been made.  It's hard for me to not wonder if I did not serve well enough or could have done more.  I have loved this calling.  I enjoy the girls, the activities, the lessons, the firesides, the Personal Progress program, and camp.  Now that Abby and Taylor are in YW's, it seems like the perfect season of my life to serve in this capacity.  Each Sunday we recite our theme in opening exercises:
We are daughters of our Heavenly Father, who loves us, and we love Him.
We will "stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things,
and in all places" (Mosiah 18:9) as we strive to live
the Young Women values, which are:
Faith
Divine Nature
Individual Worth
Knowledge
Choice and Accountability
Good Works
Integrity and
Virtue.
We believe as we come to accept and act upon these values,
we will be prepared to strengthen home and family, make and keep sacred covenants,
receive the ordinances of the temple, and enjoy the blessings of exaltation. 

It has been the weekly reminder I need to help me know of God's love for me and what my purpose is.  I know I should be joyful about not having to attend so many meetings and having more of my time freed up, but I feel like a fish out of water not really knowing what to do.  I am happy for the new leaders, and I have no doubt they'll be awesome.  Fresh change is always good, but I also feel concern for them.  They are all young mothers with little kids who need them.  Will they be able to balance it all without neglecting their own kids or our YW?  I know they can do it because they will have help from above, but in the meantime, I can't stop thinking about everything and wondering what's next for me?  I am grateful for the many things I have learned by serving; I hope that somehow, someday I'll be able to see that perhaps I have made a difference or helped one of our girls in some way.  I will truly miss this calling, more than any calling I have ever had. 

Elder Tibbitts Update

Elder Tibbitts has been out one year now. He loves his mission. He loves teaching people and seeing their lives change. He rides a bike most of the time and has tried many new foods. He has had good health without any problems with his diabetes.   It is so neat to read his emails and letters to see how much he has grown.  (His mom forwards emails to me.) His writings sound just like him talking, and he always expresses such great love and appreciation to his family.  What a blessing that would be to be the mother of a missionary.  He's still quite a character, just more spiritual.  This picture is one of their recent baptisms. 

He is currently living with members in a mansion in Goldsboro. Here is a glimpse of the movie room.  I'm sure he would have loved to watch Ironman, but The Testament will do for now. (He's very well taken care of.)  He and Whitney still write on a regular basis and no one has come even close to winning Whit's heart over.  We shall see what the next year brings!  Nearly all of her close friends are either engaged or already married.  Crazy!  She's only 20, so I keep telling her she's smart and she'll never regret getting her education completed before marriage!!  By the time Trent's home, she'll be student-teaching!  So....if things work out, she'll be nearly done and ready for the working world and a wedding.  Time will tell.

Life is Good....All is Well

Ahhhhh!  What a great weekend it has been!  I had time to get some things done on Friday so Evan and I could go to the temple on Saturday.  (His overtime hours freed up a day for him!)  I couldn't believe how everything came together and we were up early and out the door without any hitches.....well, I shouldn't say any because the dogs had escaped sometime in the night.  (I think Satan was out there.)  Even so, we left the girls in charge of everything and they did just fine.  It always amazes me how I can enter the temple doors and it's like all my worries and stresses are left behind so I can focus on the beautiful interior, the sacred purposes and covenants, and feel the calming influence of the Spirit.  I did a session for a woman from the 1800s, named Soffie Carolina.  I felt like she was rejoicing with me in spirit.  I went with real purpose and intent this time and it made such a difference.  My mind was on overload with all the answers and impressions that I had been pondering and praying about recently.  Inspiration for myself, my family, my students, my Young Women, my friends, and more.  That is why I go to the temple; there is nowhere else on earth I can receive that kind of peace, inspiration, ideas, and answers to my prayers.

Following our temple session, we went for lunch at one of my favorite cafe's--Twenty-five Main.  Whitney discovered this cafe, and we all love going there now.  The food is delicious, very reasonable, and their cupcakes are to die for.  We started out our lunch with a coconut cupcake.  (Eat dessert first....life is uncertain!)  I had the chicken fettucine alfredo and Evan had the turkey artichoke panini.  Mmmmm!   So  delicious!
  
After lunch,  it was on to the other "have to's" for the day:  oil changed while shopping Wal-Mart, Home Depot, and Costco.  It has been a few months since we've really stocked up on everything so our carts were over-loaded.  All that AND we were done by early afternoon!!  Evan surprised me by stopping in to see his Grandma Ruthie.  We don't get to see her nearly as often as we'd like to.  She will be 90 next June and is still so sharp and independant.  She happily squealed like a young girl when she saw Evan at the door.  Then she cried cause she said she'd just been thinking about Evan and he shows up out of the blue.  (Apparently, he was inspired at that moment!)

She is known as the "Polka-Dot Grandma" by all the grandkids and great grandkids.  She LOVES the color red, and anything polka-dot.    She is the ONLY person who can give Evan a big bear hug and he not resist.  Widowed in her early 30s, raised 6 boys and 3 girls on her own, never married again,  and to this day she is so happy, optimistic and grateful for anything and everything.  She never complains about anything.....EVER!  We always leave her little home feeling uplifted and grateful to have her still with us.  It was so fun to visit with her and catch up on things.  We are so thankful for our angelic Grandma Ruthie!

Monster Wife/Monster Mamma

Sometimes I have moments when the monster inside me cannot be tamed. This afternoon was such a moment. Evan has been gone the past three days on another "special assignment" for his job, therefore, I have had to do more than the usual which always assures me that I am not cut out to be a single parent. Feeling relieved that I did't have to make another trip back to Panaca to pick up Tay from play or dance practice, I rushed home from school to get money deposited for Whit's tuition before bank closed, then onto hanging up posters for my boss for upcoming school play, phone call saying we are out of dog food and grab some buns for dinner and some chips for Tay's opening social. Back to Jerry's to get Abby's treat for YW's. I remind girls and Evan that their chores, basement and bathroom must be cleaned PRIOR to YW/YM's since activity is at our house. Grumbling...murmuring...etc. from them. I come home to see good things are happening. Yay!

I go upstairs to make our bed and ask Evan to come pick up his crap on his side of the room to which he replies, "What crap?" He knows exactly 'what crap' because it's the same old crap we've discussed for 23 years now; he just likes to get me going. I am thinking to myself trying not to overreact, trying to remain calm. However, after tripping over his size 12 shoes and boots throughout the house, his cop crap, styrofoam cups,wrappers, receipts, dirty clothes, belts, and remotes alongside the bed, I can no longer hold it inside! I begin to explode!! The monster is coming unleashed!!

I say: "Really?!?" "How old are you?" "How can I expect the kids to pick up after themselves if you don't do it?" "I have had enough of your being a slob!" "I want a separate bedroom if you can't clean up your crap." I leave the room before I kill him and finish up last minute things before dinner and YW's. I notice Abby upstairs scrubbing her toilet. I see Taylor in the kitchen doing dishes, cleaning off counters, and everything put away from dinner. I am shocked! They both have the look of fear in them. I think to myself....Hmmmm? Hmmm! Maybe this little monster inside me needed to come out. (Not what I like to do, but it did get results and then some.) I am always a little stressed once school starts because I no longer have the extra time to keep up with the house, laundry and all that being a wife and mother entails, so this back-to-school adjustment typically requires a few heated discussions over chores, privileges, consequences, communication, scheduling and whatever else it takes to keep our family and household running smoothly.

Whoever reads this blog post is probably going to think of me as an evil, wicked person, who should just get off my whiny butt, but this little venting outlet just may have saved someone from serious injury tonight. Buahahaha! I'm taking me and my little monster to bed now. Good-night!

Taylor's Hair Bows

Taylor has been very busy creating hair accessories the past few weeks. They just keep getting cuter as she experiments and tries new ideas. She took pics for those interested in buying some and will be selling them at the craft fair over Labor Day. The first two sets of bows are $3.00 each and all others are $5.00 each.

23rd Wedding Anniversary

Twenty-three years ago on a very hot summer's day, August 28, 1987, Evan and I were sealed in the St. George Temple. That time has flown by as we finished our education, had our family, transitioned with job and career changes, a few moves, in debt, out of debt, various church callings, death of loved ones, a major flood, a premature baby, and endured many challenges and celebrations along the way. It has definitely not always been easy, but through all of our life's lessons together, we have each grown individually and together. Our love seems to expand with each test of time. I am thankful we both set a goal in our youth to marry in the temple and to be selective in choosing our eternal companion. I'm grateful Evan was willing to serve a mission, for the way it helped him grow and mature in the gospel. His experiences have helped us in many ways. I'm thankful we were both raised by wonderful parents who provided the things we needed to become self-reliant adults, who taught us to serve others, to love the gospel and enjoy the blessings of eternal families.With all the busyness of school starting up this past two weeks, and one last trip to Davis, CA, we were able to get away for a night and a day to St. George. It was nice to be able to VISIT without distractions or interruptions, eat where WE like to eat, shop where WE like to shop and BROWSE as long as we wanted. Later, we met up with family at the annual Corn Fest in Enterprise for a BBQ. It was a great weekend! I hope the next 23 years are even better than the first! I love you Evan; you still make me grin!

First Day of School

The first day of school has come and gone once again. This year brings new changes for all three girls. Taylor is a Freshman, Abby in Middle School, and Whitney beginning her first year in Dixie's education program. It is an exciting time for everyone with new friends being made and new life experiences. I think they looked too cute...probably should have made them wear a brown paper bag over their heads!



As for me, I'm just pleased that I could get up early as I head out the door on the first day of school to face my little class of second graders! (Only 11 students this year!!) Unheard of, but awesome! Low stress for me this year! Woo-hoo! My theme once again is: "Camp Read-A-Lot"...I'm holding a newly recovered cushion for our reading bench! I love teaching! It's always exciting to see the kids' excitement on the first day of school!

Manti High School - Class of 1985

This past weekend was my 25th class reunion in Manti, UT. It seems that over the past several years I only get up that way for funerals, so it was nice to get reacquainted with old friends and classmates for a happy occasion. Evan wasn't able to get the time off work, therefore, Whitney was willing to accompany me. It was comic relief for both of us listening to stories (and the stories within the stories) that were revealed and/or confessed. This is approximately one-third of our graduating class.Doug Haymond & Kenneth Nielson.My highschool sweetheart...Dan Macfarlane. 25 years ago we said our goodbys at the airport as he left for his mission. Life is always full of surprises! My good friend, Julene. We grew up in the same ward together and have kept in touch through the years. She's also a teacher and lives in southern Utah. Julene is always good for a laugh!
LeeAnna & Doug Haymond.

(LeeAnna cheered with me and Doug was a close neighbor.)

Angie Larson, Paul Blad, Me, Brooks, Nielson
(Angie's parents owned the Cow Palace Lanes...bowling alley) Paul was my first grade school crush, and Brooks and I were nominated Biggest Flirts our Senior Year.
Paul, Roger, Brooks, & I all met up at McDonald's the next morning by surprise. Whitney & I were at the drive-up about to order when we heard this sexy, masculine voice coming from the speaker saying, "You can have anything you want, honey!" Out jumped Brooks and Paul from behind. We about wet our pants laughing so hard. We all visited for a few more hours. It was so fun hearing of their lives since high school and remembering fun childhood memories.Whitney had to hear all evening how much she looks like me. I think she is a much better version of myself. Road trips are always fun with Whitney along. She entertains and keeps me awake by playing, "Name that tune" with her I-pod. Good times!!I always loved being able to see this beautiful sight from nearly anywhere in the valley. We often went there for baptisms, firesides, and performed in the annual Mormon Miracle Pageant each summer. I always enjoy reading about the early pioneers that settled the Sanpete Valley and sacrificed so much to build this temple. The best event that took place here was in November 1989 when my parents were finally sealed for time and all eternity!

I feel so incredibly blessed to have been raised by great parents, to have lived so close to the beautiful Manti Temple, and to have been always surrounded by good friends who brought so much joy and laughter in my life during my childhood and teenaged years. When you grow up in a small rural town such as Ephraim, most of your classmates are with you from Kindergarten on up through your Senior year of high school.