It's December already?!

I just saw that I missed blogging for the entire month of November... I have been reading Liana's blogs and I so enjoy her thoughts and words.  She is a great writer and it is fun to read her  thoughts on life.  She is a great gal and I am so glad to have her as a daughter-in -law. 
Tonight I am watching Burn Notice and starting with episode one on Netfllix - I am starting to understand a whole lot more of the reason for the story.  November has also been a great month for watching The Biggest Loser and Amy and I are now into Season 5.  I am learning some interesting things about how people gain weight to cover for other problems that they have.  I probably have eaten most of my life because I like to eat!  I don't know if I have a lot of negative things to influence the eating - i just like food.  On the other hand, watching the Biggest Loser has helped to make me feel a determination to watch the food I eat and try and make it worth the calories... now the exercise, well, that's another story.  Skipped 2 Zumba sessions over the last two weeks and now I need to get back on track and at least get in two sessions this week.  It is one of those hard things to do and yet you feel so good after you go.  hope i can keep doing it!
Seems like I have not got a lot to say after a whole month of not writing.  I know there were some significant things I wanted to write about this last month but i just never got there.  Lesson learned:  write it when it is fresh.
We are waiting to hear about what is going on with Jim.  He has been miserable over the last 3 weeks and hardly able to eat anything.  Yesterday he went for at Cat scan and should find out on Monday what is wrong... then we'll have to work on how to fix it.  Jim is a quiet patient and doesn't really complain much but he can also walk around like a zombie.  I think he will be better after he knows what he is dealing with.  I am trying to stay positive but this is another anxious time.  I can feel it in my whole soul just like in the past when things have been hard for us...I truly hope he can come through this, I can't bear to think of what it might mean otherwise.
So anyway, it is December and Christmas is around the corner.  We are busy at the store and in the restaurant.  I need to get presents put together and I do so hope we can go to Disneyland...  Hoping for the best!

CEDAR FAMILY SUNDAY NIGHT ACTIVITY

We had our first Sunday get-together for the Cedar Fontanos tonight.  We met for dinner and then a lesson/activity.  I felt good about it although got some complaints that it was long... too bad Grandpa!
We had some fun talking about why each person was special.  I think G-pa was just ornery about it cause he, being the oldest, was the last one in the special seat and so he had to wait awhile to hear some good comments about himself! It was fun to hear nice comments and observations made about each member of the family and how they are doing.  I also liked that the younger set found good things to say about each other!  We plan to do this once a month, on the third Sunday... I hope it works.
On another note, I heard Saturday that my New Harmony neighbor Martha Coe on 3430 passed away.  She is just a year or so older than me and was such an active woman.  I have great memories of the time that we lived by each other... we were good friends and I have missed her.  We had a lot in common at the time.  We both had children in the same age range and we had both had 8 children.  She was a great example to me of enthusiasm and hard work.  I am remembering that we served together as activity day leaders.  I know she had such a loving and giving personality and I loved being around her.  We did a lot of family things and she and Bill were always so good to our children. 
I was mentioning to Laura on the phone tonight that her passing makes three of my very best friends now have died... Ellie Grover, Shanna Reed and Martha Coe.  All three were what I would call kindred spirits.  I just loved them and they were just natural friends who I felt I could share anything with.  I haven't had a lot of friends like that in my life.  Glad for them and their influence for good.

I've been hacked!

Last week my Yahoo email was hacked.  I lost all of my contacts and it makes me sick.  Some of those addresses have gotten posted on the Little Brick House account but none on my gmail account.  My Carson City friends, my "family" group, my New Harmony friends... I just don't have anything on them.  Hope someof them will send me there addresses again so I can get them on the list.
This weekend Amy and I spent some time with Laura and Nigel and family.  We just mostly shopped and talked but it was a good time.  I just love to be with those little grandkids.  Shey is so wonderful.  I love her so much.  She treats me like I am just the best grandma ever.  Donovan had his first birthday.  He took 4 steps for his Dad but then fell down and wouldn't get up again.  He got lots of little cars and made car sounds and pushed them all over the floor and furniture.  He loves Amy and he will let me hold him.  We had a fun time at Texas Roadhouse for dinner on his birthday when he got to ride the saddle!
Got back about 8:30 Sunday night and then spent Monday with Susan in St. George.  We went to the temple and to lunch and then did a little shopping.  Today I worked in the shop and we sold some good stuff... Diane Delport's buffet to a young couple.  I could tell she loved antiques.  I am starting to move some things into the back room and was able to rent a space today and have another vendor ask me to apply the money they had made to their rent!  Yeah, I have been so sick about owing different vendors and consignors money and now these people come forward with money right when I need it!  I think my prayers are being answered!
That brings me up to tonight.  Not much happening except that Jim tried another type of fudge.  While I was gone he made Pumpkin Pecan and Butterscotch Penuche that were both delicious and tonight he tried to make some Gingerbread... I sampled a little and couldn't really taste the ginger but perhaps as it sits out overnight it will get better...
I read Liana and John's blogs tonight and they both brought tears to my eyes.  John talking about Jack and how he is progressing in school.  He had a tantrum the other day and then the next day apologized to the aide and said he would do better (that was all on his own, John didn't even know about the incident).  Liana talked about being cold in their house and using her peppermint bath stuff (I had some of that because she gave me it for Christmas and I loved it) also how she helped her mom by bringing in wood and how she loves her mom's toasted homemade bread with hot cocoa (my favorite)... I love reading both of these blogs because they bring me closer to these special people.  Both are great and entertaining writers.
So I am going to read a chapter or two in my book and then head for bed.  Seems like today was a day of getting up, getting dressed, going to work, coming home from work, getting ready for bed again...  No complaints really... I love the challenges at work, the kids make me sandwiches at work and I get to see lots of old friends and make new friends.  I also made three fun baskets today for the Apple Fest and like I said earlier I felt the Lord's hand in helping us get through some challenges at the business.  Life is good.

Keep on blogging

I've already written a blog tonight but then I read John and Liana's blogs where both talked about quitting the blogging world... I must say that I hope they do not.  I thoroughly enjoy their blogs.  I also read Laura's blogs and feel like all three keep me up on what is going on in their lives and in their thoughts.  I love to read Liana's blogs because I don't know her as well and they teach me so many things about her and about her thoughts.  I also am amazed at the things John writes.  I love to read his comments about the kids and also about how he is getting along in life.  Tonight I read about Rachel telling him how she was sorry for the way she had treated him and that he was a good man... brought tears to my eyes.  Not only because he deserved to hear that but also because I am grateful that Rachel has had her heart softened.  I enjoy Laura's blog as well.  She shares frustrations and struggles that otherwise I doubt she would mention to me... she also puts on pictures of the kids which I so enjoy.   I am just so glad for this medium of communication.  I hope all of these guys just keep on blogging!

Which witch

Last weekend a lady brought a truckload of furniture to the store.  It was actually Friday and I was off but thought I would be nice and help her unload it even though she didn't have an appointment.  After unloading, I told her that I would send her an inventory in the next couple of days.  She must have taken that to mean Saturday... After she had gone, a lady came in and wanted to buy her chairs.  Dani sold them at what I considered to be a fair price.  Well, somehow the seller called on Monday and found out the chairs had been sold before she got the inventory and they were sold without the table which she claimed I said I would sell as a set ... never said that but oh well.  Anyway, we had a day with that lady let me tell you.  She yelled first at Amy, then at Dani, then wrote me a mean email and then came in to the store and had a yelling match with me and I guess with Jim as well.  I don't know how much John got into it with her... Anyway, we all agreed she was a witch - full blown, Jim says actually a witch with a capital B.  So I was so upset I had to leave and Jim worked things out.  She wanted the chairs back... no way could we do that, we don't even know who bought them.  Well, I am dumb but Jim figured out what she really wanted was for us to buy the table so that she would n't lose money on the set.  He did that.  We also had her load up the rest of her stuff and take it back.  No way were we going to work with her on other stuff also.

It was so upsetting to me and it certainly brought out the worst in me.  I have had such an experience a few other times in my life when I got so angry with someone I just couldn't hardly handle things.  I remember one was yelling at the owner of Mcdonalds in Carson City because of something he did to one of my boys... now I don't remember which.  Anyway, I had such a stomach ache from the experience and I was so ashamed of myself.  I tossed and turned over it all night and then after praying realized what I needed to do was apologize for my behavior.  I know it was her behavior that started the whole thing but I reacted in a very rude and embarassing way.  So I ended up writing her an email saying I was sorry for being rude.  The cool thing was that every since I did that I have felt much better - I didn't want to be a witch or atleast wanted to let her know I was sorry if I had been one.

So after all that, we bought the table and put it out on the floor... without the chairs.  Interestingly, I lady came in today and was very interested in the table - without the chairs even.  Imagine that. 

Good by to Celeste

Last week Celeste Barrick passed away.  She has been sick for awhile but I had no idea that she was so close to death.  She got pneumonia and then blood poisoning and her body just shut down.  Saturday we went to her funeral.  It was a great spiritual experience.  The girls gave loving memorials to their mom.  It was a reminder to me of how life is precious.  I know it will be hard for her children, especially for Savannah and Anikan who are still young and in school.  I always feel for families where the mother or father dies and there are still young children or teenagers.  I have been there... I know how hard it is  
Celeste's death was a reminder of how precious life is.  She was a good woman, a good mother, a good wife.  She wasn't perfect but she lived a good life and she was an example to me of trying your hardest... of working and working and working.  She never stopped.  She loved her family.  She was devoted to her husband.  She lived the gospel.  I hope that I can remember and follow such an example.  I am glad to have known her!  I hope that I can be supportive for her family and not forget that they will need encouragement and love.

Disneyland???

Mike called tonight to ask about Disneyland in December between Christmas and New Years.  We haven't really spread the word much to the family but if anyone reads this and wants to go... we are on board I believe.  Mike is looking up places to stay.  We are hoping we can get it together for little funds - like the trip being our Christmas...  Amy and Dave and Dani and Mike and Liana all want to take the trip.  Perhaps those with children can also save up.  Come if you want is my philosophy.  I am not making demands or requests or invitations.  It would be so fun for everyone to be there but at the same time it can be a hardship too.  So this is just a matter of we're going, come if you can!

It was a restful Sunday today.  I read my scriptures after church, started reading a Clive Cussler book, took a nap for about 3 hours, fixed dinner, finished the book, talked to Mike on the phone and now I am writing this.  It isn't yet 10 pm so I might find a movie to watch and then we'll hope that I can sleep tonight after that long nap.

I need to work on JMA stuff tomorrow at the store and perhaps we can get the office in the basement somewhat organized.  Guess we have a Stake party at the institute Wednesday night.  Glad for that since I will beable to see a lot of people I haven't seen for awhile.  I miss that interaction at the YSA stake and I only get nursery in the ward... it is something I like - to hide out - but not really good for me to do it because themore I hide out the less I want to interact with the people in the ward.  They don't know me and I don't care if they do.  It was good when Jim and I were both working in the ward but since we are not right now, there are just more and more people who we don't know.  Glad we are still in the Stake until the spring...

Nothing to say

I have not got anything to say but wanted to write.  I have been catching up on emails for the last hour or more and it is fun to hear from people and realize that there are those that mean so much to you.  Liana wrote me back and said she was doing pretty well since her operation.  That was probably two weeks ago and I just now read it.  Clorinda had written to say they were coming up for Labor day and bringing 15 pkgs. of hot dogs.  Mack had sent me a newsletter from her 6th grade class.  She is having a hard adjustment to middle school and to especially riding the bus.  Laura had written on facebook to say that she gave her last taco to Shey - proof of her motherly love.  I saw a picture of our 40th year reunion in Pleasanton in 2008.  I also saw some pictures of some of the kids in Castro Valley when they were in grade school.  Didn't really recognize many of them even though probably most of them graduated from Castro Vally with me but I did recognize Jack Kuhn III - I think he still looked the same at the 40th year reunion! 
So although I haven't much in the way of introspection or enlightenment, I do have to say that it is good to check your email once in a while because there are good things to remember and fun things to learn.

Testimony and Temple

Last week we were able to go to the temple.  We haven't been to the temple since last March.  I kept thinking we would get there but our time has been so filled up with the shop that to find a time together to go has been almost impossible.  So I was so excited when the time opened up and we could go down together and enjoy a session.  I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed it!  I kept finding myself tearing up as I felt the spirit  I was an incredible high for me to just be at peace and feel my Heavenly Father's love.  I am so blessed to be a member of the church.  It amazes me that I could be so lucky and have the Gospel.
I remember back as a young girl, deciding between being a Mormon (Mom) and a Catholic (Dad).  I liked the idea of Catholic because in those days they wore a hat to church every Sunday and I was a hat girl in those days.  I would stand in front of my mother's antique dresser mirror and try on all of her hats frequently... I love to do it.  Even when I had already been baptized a Mormon.  So glad I made the right choice then because now I wonder if I would have listened to the Missionaries or made the decision to be baptized.  Glad the Lord let me choose while I wasn't quite so stubborn.
Anyway, the Temple was great and much needed right now.  I hope to go again soon with Susan who also hasn't been able to go because of caring for her bedridden mother these last months.  Since her mom passed away last week it will free her up somewhat.  She still has her dad to care for but she should be able to get out now and then.  I will enjoy my day with her, including lunch, Coldwater Creek and a pedicure!
So we are headed to Salt Lake today to pick up some things for the store.  I am hoping for a nice day and one to just relax a little bit.  Well Jim just said he is ready to go and I still haven't brushed my hair or teeth, so I will let this go and get on my way!

Chicken Salad Salad

At the Brickhouse Cafe they make a great chicken salad salad.  It is just a salad and you add chicken salad on the top.  I love it!  I don't really like the chicken salad for a sandwich (as much as all breast meat) but for the salad it is perfect.  YUM!
I worked today and never really stopped - as usually happens - until about 7:30 tonight.  I think Dave got the LBH (original) all cleaned out and so I will go in and vacuum and clean the bathrooms tomorrow.  That is one less headache to think about.  We hope they can get it sold or rented soon so we don't have to keep paying for it.  The move to the bigger place has been very good for our business and we don't regret moving.  I also don't regret the business at all.  We are doing very well and each day brings a new adventure!  It puts us all out there... I watch John, Dad, Amy and Dave all conversing with customers.  They are good at visiting and making people feel comfortable.  The atmosphere in the cafe and in the shop is good.  I also enjoy talking to people.  I can almost tell immediately the ones I am not going to like but the ones that are nice make it fun to be doing what I do.  It is also great to see some old friends... New Harmony, Greenslake, people in the YSAStake and others.  I love it when they come in and we can hug!  It is a nice plus to working hard!

Diane Delport

When we first opened our shop, a lady called and wanted us to come and pick up some things to sell.  Jim and I went to her house and I remember that she had a large table, 4 white chairs, an old white shabby chic table, a long white shelf and several other things.  With the little house, I wondered where we would put them all.  The large table took up half of the room in the "fireplace room".  We stacked things on top of it and never moved it the entire time we were in the little house.  We bought the shelf and ohn painted it red.  I love that shelf and it now hangs in the restaurant.
Diane would come in and visit our shop periodically and brought in several other items including a big duck tureen and several other interesting pieces.  She also bought my secretary and she loved it.
I found out that she was suffering from cancer and she had some good days and some bad days.  Her husband had alzheimers and she was taking care of him all by herself when we first me.  It was wearing her out.  One day she came in and she looked happier... she told me that she had gotten rid of Henry and it had eased her load!  He meant that she was able to put him in a care center but it came out a little more seriously... 
She called several more times with a beautiful buffet and a dresser as well as a yellow chair with strawberries in the material pattern and a matching ottoman.  There was also a darling yellow mirror and a white chair with a pink floral fabric.  I came to appreciate her style.  Recently she called and had Jim pick up another chair with matching pink floral fabric, an old iron, a chocolate bunny mold and the cutest thing ever that she called duckie butts.  It was a piece of wood with the hind ends of three ducks and their feet that looked like what you might see under the water.  I loved it and I wanted it.   I think it sold last Monday and I missed out... we all loved the duckie butts. 
A lady was interested in buying one of the floral chairs and I said I would call and see if Diane would take a discounted price.  I called for three days with no answer.  I thought maybe she had changed her phone number since she had just moved... I was planning today to call information or even go to her house.
Sitting in a meeting today, Dani mentioned that some ladies had come in because a friend and relative of their's had died this week and they wanted us to take some of the furniture.  She then mentioned Diane Delport's name.  I was shocked.  It has just been this week when I have been thinking about her so much that I really recognized how much I had come to enjoy and appreciate this lady.  She was small, she suffered with her own illness, she had moved three times in this year that I knew her, she took care of her ailing and feeble husband and at the same time she died her hair a new color, she bought fudge, she enjoyed antiques and she was a friendly face that I enjoyed seeing.  She touched my life and it was sad to hear that she had not made it through an operation that she didn't think would be a big obstacle. 
Today I met her daughter (who looked like I would imagine Diane looked when she was younger) and her sister who was just a bit chubbier but looked very much like Diane as well.  Neither of these women live here in Cedar and so they came in with a couple of friends that Diane knew and who were helping with the sale of this furniture and other items.
I am glad to consign these things and hope to sell them.  Each piece has suddenly taken on a new meaning.  Her cute little teapots, the bunny mold, the tole painted chicken, the duck tureen will be treated with special attention when we sell them... in memory of a lovely little lady who touched our lives at the Little Brick House.  A sweet and tender mercy of running this business.

Cookies

We ordered cookies from Nicholas for the restaurant.  We didn't really like any of them and decided to make our own.  I am interested about the cookies as well as the sandwiches and chili and soup and even fudge etc.  I think many of the fast food restaurants around any more use food that is premade etc.  In our restaurant almost everything is done from scratch.  Obviously we buy our bread but we find the most success with the food that we make by hand... so the cookies are a part of that and we are working on what to make.  Amy has the recipe for the chocolate chips down pretty good.  Tomorrow I am going to try some oatmeal raisins and I think some peanut butters as well.  John makes a good white choco macadamia nut. Our cookies might not be way different or creative but I think they will be delicious! 
So with the cookies in mind, I have been thinking also about how many new things there are in today's world.  I deal in antiques and old things now and so I am constantly reminded of how things used to be.  Beautiful and creative furniture, clocks, gramaphones, telephones.  People used to take a lot of pride in things they made and took time to make them.  In this fast food, fast everything world, I wonder about how things are going to end up.  I watch people who never stop playing video games, or talking on cell phones, or driving fast, or wanting immediate answers to questions.  I am glad that I had an opportunity to grow up in a slower world.  I know I am stupid about a lot of things in this electronic age but I also realize that some skills that I have come from the day when I had to work things out on my own.  I can add a list of figures in my head, or spell words without using word check, or wash a car by hand or cook a meal without everything coming from a box.  I am glad that I can do those things.  I am glad I know what a good cookie should taste like as well as real bacon, pulled turkey, and chili from scratch.  Hope we can keep up with some of the old ways of doing things in the shop.   Hope that I remember how lucky I am to have enjoyed my life in different stages and different paces...

I'm an oldie

Today a lady came in to the shop with a horse that she wanted me to see and probably buy.  I told her that I couldn't buy it but looked at it in the back of her truck.  It was a metal horse with wheels and if you pushed down on the foot pedals the legs go out and then it moves forward.  It was really old looking and since she had it as a child I thought that it was probably from the 40's... the woman looked over  70 at least.  Then she told me that she got the horse when she was about 1 year old which would be 1952... 1952 means she is only 60 but she looked at least 70 - a smoker, maybe that means she has aged but my gosh she was younger than me and she looked 70 or more!  Yikes that calls to my mortality.  I am OLD and I am older than someone who looked way old!  Scary!

Love it!

Dave was talking with Jim and I about how much we enjoy having the LBH... It is a great experience every day and it is fun to be working together.  We are excited to see the new items coming in everyday... it is great to know that there are people who trust us to "house" their items.  Yesterday we got some great items... it was so exciting to have these surprises come into the store - earlier in the week we got the duckie butts and the chocolate rabbit molds... it makes this a great business.  It is fun to see what new things will happen each day.  We have met some great people as well.  Last night a fellow came in to talk to Jim about our merchant account.  His name is Gary and he was raised in Liverpool England.  His great uncle was George Harrison of the Beatles... he had so many interesting things to tell us about his observations of the US.  It was a pleasure to talk to him.
And I was mentioning to Jim and Dave how meeting such interesting and nice people is a great part of the job.  We also have some great people that work with us... the girls are hard working and dependable. 
Some days I get down and feel like this is a lot of work for a small compensation but when I think about so many of the good parts on a day like today, I am glad for the LBH - gotta love it!

Two River Days

Glad that I have had the chance to play Grandma a couple of times this week.  We went to the river and the kids had a great time.  I enjoyed so much sitting on the rocks with my feet in the water and I loved just enjoying watching the kids play in the water.  I feel like my summer has been too short this year.  I noticed today some leaves turning yellow - how can it be?  I hope we have a few more days for outings!
Tonight I watched the kids play at Jay and Sara's and had fun especially playing with Tommy.  He can throw a mean soccer ball and it was a fun time!
I know school and soccer and all those things put a lot of pressure on families and parents.  I hope I can be of some help to both Jay and John's families.  It is hard sometimes because I have a lot of "home" work but days like I've had this week remind me of how much I enjoy these little guys.  I hope I can spare some time for them that will help their parents a bit too.
Off to bed now... my sleeping pills are kicking in!

Hear not here...

My last blog said here but it should have said hear... what is wrong with me, am I getting old or something?
Went to the river today with Sara and kids and John's three.  It was so fun.  It was a perfect day to wiggle one's toes in the water and enjoy watching the kids play in the river.  I haven't been able to do that all summer and I so enjoyed myself.  I think we are going again on Wednesday... I hope it doesn't rain and mess things up.

Diane Delport sent in some great new stuff today.  A duckie butt hook rack which is so cute and different.  Also some rabbit forms for chocolate rabbits ... only one side - I want both things.  Guess I can't but sure would love to put them in my house.  Hope some other customer likes them as much as me!

School will start on Thursday.  I am sure the kids are a little nervous but it will make things easier for John and for Sara.  I remember when my kids used to have that "first" day of school.  I would be so worried for them and hope so hard it would be good for them.  It pretty much always was... they would come home happy and excited about their day.  I went through it every year for each one of them.  Worried, all day and then so relieved when they got home and were okay  Wow, this brings back some interesting memories.  Back to school time was hard - new clothes, shoes, school fees... and then the day of getting everyone up and off to school... so much tension and stress- I had forgotten. 

Keeping up - its good to here what is going on...

I just read John and Laura and Liana's blogs.  Liana has changed her format again... Each one is so darling.  Laura has changed her house and I loved seeing the pictures on the wall... Funny how some people just put one picture on a wall - Laura was taught to hang many pictures on a wall.  She knows how to balance them and they look great!
I have been catching up on these posts for about the last hour or more.  Haven't sat down lately and read any... John posted many since the last time I read his since he didn't have internet to work with until yesterday or the day before.  It was fun to read about all that is going on with him and his newly returned children... he is back to being soooo busy - he was sooo busy while they were gone but now keeping them fed, bathed, entertained and all the rest in addition to all that goes on at work is an enormous challenge.
I am also feeling challenged to keep up with work and keeping books etc.  Seems like there isn't enough time in the day.  I go in for a couple of hours tomorrow to cover for Dani and then I will probably spend some time with Jack, Natty and Andy.  I think we'll try going over to Canyon Park and the river.  We had so much fun there last year... I hope the water is still running. I remember last year it started to dwindle and then we had major rain about this time and the river got all muddy.  Hope we can get there before all that happens again.
Well, I have my scripture reading to do now.  I am in Mormon and should finish the whole Book of Mormon by the end of next week.  The challenge was for the summer and it has been a great blessing to read everyday.  I can definitely feel the spirit as I read... 

Bitter

it is 12:30 am and I just wrote a post about enjoying the posts I read by my blogging buddies:  John, Liana and Laura.  They all have some deep insights and laughable ones as well.  Well when I went to post there was some problem and so everything is lost and I am too tired to write it all again...
suffice it to say that I laughed my head off tonight at Liana's stories about riding her bike with her roller skates on and  with the baby carrier on the back.  Also enjoyed Johns thoughts about the dissolving of the Cedar 7th ward and how wards really are families. 
Well, the first post was much more interesting but too bad... I'm off to bed.

Fudge, fudge, fudge

We are selling so much fudge at the LBH that we have to make some now every night.  It is okay, it is good but I am tired by the time I get home and thinking of making more fudge isn't fun.  We actually are waiting for our gas burners to get here and when they do then we'll make the fudge at the shop - or someone else will. 
We had our first real lunch rush today with people lined up to the door to get sandwiches.  It was Five Frenzy Wednesday which means that every sandwich is $5 with the purchase of a drink.  It is a good deal... I can't finish most of the sandwiches by myself and so I know people are getting their moneys worth.  We had every seat taken at one point - awesome!  I hope it continues - I think it will.  Everyone seems to like the sandwiches so that is a good sign.
I was at the shop all day until 9 pm - same as yesterday.  My knee is killing me, I think I twisted it and now it is hurting to walk and go up and down stairs.  I did this to it a few years ago when the gals from Carson were here and we hiked up to the third pool in Zions.  I had problems with that knee for a couple of months after.  I will try to stay off of it for a few days or wear a brace if I can find it... it is hard getting old - things happen for no good reason!
I think we have almost rented out all of our spaces.  Connie Sowards has a space where she is selling leggings and  without even being totally up, I sold two of her packages today.  Cool.  I have had to move all of my stuff out of the back room because someone is moving in there next week.  It is actually kind of a good thing to have people moving in with their stuff so that I don't have to keep buying and decorating.  I miss that part of it however but if I can make the money I need to for the rent and so forth from vendors it will take some of the anxiety of making enough money out of it.
Today the Mayor Burgess' wife came in and ordered 3 baskets for a ting the city is doing.  She wants each basket to value at $100.  That is great - I talked her into putting a $50 gift certificate in each basket which will mean that they can use the gift certificate for food in the restaurant or for items and then I can put the rest of the baskets together with goodies.  It will be a fun project.  I haven't been putting as many baskets together lately so this will be great!
Well I am feeling much better about things this week than last.  We might even make payroll and also pay the vendors and consignors!  Now we just have to work at getting me, John and Jim paid!

BLT

Oh my gosh - I have a new sandwich love.  Actually I have loved BLT's for years but the one we are making at the LBH with peppered bacon on focaccia bread is out of this world.  Soooo good.  Also today, John made me a BuffaloChicken Philly and that was darn good as well... that is DARN good - Laura sent me an email with the word darn that looked like dam and I had to question her about it.  Although I realize that dam that is swearing has an n on the end.  She said she wrote DARN and I believe her.
Doing well on my scripture reading - tonight I read Helaman 7-9.  I always enjoy reading those chapters because once in Carson I spoke with two other ladies on those chapters and because of that I know them pretty well. The scriptures are so soothing to me.  I am having a lot of hectic days right now, both at the shop and at home trying to catch up with all of the things I am not getting done.  When I sit down to read the scriptures it brings some peace to my life.  I know it is the spirit because some times while reading my mind will wander and I know that I haven't really "read" the words but I have felt the spirit none the less.
Moving things out of the back room to make space for renters.  With these two renters from the last two days and a couple more we will be full up.  I am sad to take everything out of my back room - it was fun to do and now I have had to do some crowding in the front room.  I am hoping I can figure things out so I don't start looking way junky.
So heading for bed.  I am tired - was at  the LBH for 11 hours straight today but it is always fun to be there with family.  I am happy to stay in the shop and let everyone else do their thing in the kitchen.  All of my kids are great cooks... I am proud of them.  I think they have inherited their dad's love for cooking and his abilities too.  It is too bad with all these great cooks, I am the one that has done most of the cooking over the years.  Have to say I made a great and delicious meatloaf on Sunday - it really was yummy.  I think I can make a good meatloaf and good fudge and if I can think about it for a while, I might come up with another couple of good foods I do...  well maybe not!

Surprise!

Yesterday I was working at the shop and a little boy walked in the front door.  I thought to myself that little boy looks an awful lot like Jeremy...then Abbie came in and then Ben... that little boy was Jeremy.  What a surprise and what a great surprise!  I was overwhelmed - I actually screamed.  I was so excited.  Thanks to Pete and Tara's planning and my husband keeping such a secret I enjoyed the rest of the day and all day Sunday with these cute Houston grandchildren.  We were able to throw together a picnic at Canyon Park which included all the Cedarites as well as Laura and Nigel and kids here for the weekend and of course our surprise guests.  The cousins enjoyed themselves - taking dips in the creek and playing together.  We adults had a fun visit which included our usual  "who will play us in the Fontano movie"... I am relieved to hear that I might be played by the gal from Home Alone and Beetlejuice (Kathryn Ohara?) rather than Marie from Everybody Loves Raymond.
The old standards "Kurt Russell for John, Bill Murray for Mike" are still on the list.  New ones included "Mr. Bean for Nigel, possibly Carrie Underwood for Amy, Matt Damon for Dave although some discussion about some new guy from Friends for Dave, and Tom Hanks for Jim"  I am voting Debra from Raymond for Tara but there is some disagreement about that.  Right now I can't remember who it was for Dad but the Mall Cop guy for Jay.  If anyone wants to comment they are welcome to get this all down in writing.  I know I am missing quite a few.
So anyway, after a fun dinner with all the clan we separated to different houses and Laura and Nigel became John's first house guests in his new house while Dad and I sported the Houston kids and their mom at our house.  Jeremy took the couch "shirtless" and Abbie and Ben tried out the blowup beds although I understand Ben spent most of the night with Tara in the guest room.  He did say however that he loved the blow up bed and it was very comfortable.
Sunday we got to church and then laughed watching Jeremy play baseball on the Wii .  Making comments to all of the players and umps decisions...  It was certainly entertaining and very much like seeing his dad in action... Tara tries to blame that all on "Fontano genes" but I am reminding her that it is a 50-50 division there.  Ben is watching Jeremy carefully for tips in behavior as well.  Not a bad thing at all - we enjoyed all three kids so much and it was such a sweet surprise to have them with us for these two days.
I forget that each time Jeremy leaves us or we leave him, it is pretty traumatic for him.  Today, Tara drove off with all three kids crying their eyes out in the back seat.  We were all crying our eyes out as well.
It was a great surprise to have them here - it is always hard to have them go.
I am not forgetting that Laura and Nigel were here as well and it is always fun to have them down.  Shey would like to stay indefinitely and gets pretty miserable as well when it is time to leave.
So all of these cute grandkids we have - what a blessing.  We are so grateful for those who live close-by.  We have missed John's kids this summer and look forward to their return on August 2nd.  We were lucky to have Marien, Clayton and Kathryn here over the 4th.  They are getting so big - it is fun to watch them mature.  Jay and Sara's kids keep us all happy here all the time - this week we watched the twins and Anna while the girls (and Tommy) and their parents had a Harry Potter activity with dinner and a movie!  I hope they had as good a time as we had with the boys and Anna and their dinner of cold spaghettios!
So tonight I am grateful for a great family.  Grandchildren and children alike bring me such joy.  I am still tearful to think that I was able to have such a great surprise.  I was so glad that Laura was here to see her niece and nephew as well.  Tara says they will see the LV cousins this week.  So with the exception of Mike and Liana we covered the bases and I am grateful that family got to mingle a bit.  Perhaps not a complete family reunion but at least a very good time.

LBH Ideas

We had a meeting last week and came up with some ideas for the LBH Cafe etc.  We have had some great suggestions from others as well.  We are selling bread and I think that will develop into a good thing.  Also Judy told us about a lady who might bake pies at our place... that would be awesome.
David came up with an idea to do a Farmer's Market in our driveway and we have been doing some research on that... we think we'll do it on Friday nights from 5-8 when it is cool and still light out.  We hope that will make people aware of the place.  We think we might also have some fun stuff like face painting and balloons for kids etc.  Maybe we can sell our bread and other goodies too.  Maybe Jim and group can sing and we'll get some other singers too. 
John took around some free samples today and we got an order from Dr. Gunn's office.  Dani also ordered some goodies and I think it was successful there too.  Tomorrow more free samples. 
I plan to work on John's house tomorrow and get the linen closet in etc.  The kids will be home in two weeks.  The time has gone fast - at least for me.  I miss them but it has been a blessing to have them gone so that their dad could devote so much time to the shop.
I had to let Katelyn go yesterday and I felt so bad.  I have actually felt bad for the whole weekend as I anticipated having to tell her that we were just to slow to keep her on.  She was good about it but I felt terrible none the less. 
We did have two great prospects come in today - one a guy who does antiques through Ebay and he was very knowledgeable.  I think he would be a great asset and he will teach us alot.  He also said that he would let us list things on his account and then just take a percentage.  That would be great because he already has the connections! 
Another lady, Susan, has had 4 craft type stores and she wants to take a space.  It sounds like she will do some fun stuff also.  It give me hope.  If I wake up at night, I can lay there for hours wondering how this is all going to come together and getting sick to my stomach.  Then someone like Susan or this fellow Wes come in and rave about the place and say we are going to do great... I hope that is true - at least like I say it gives me hope. 
I have to say that I do think our place has charm.  The food is going well and people seem to like it.  We are excited about the pies!   We think also we'll start making our own cookies - they can only be better than the ones we are buying from Nicholas. 
So things are good I guess.  Just so we can juggle enough to make things work. 

I Passed!

Today I took my Food Handler's  "Assessment" as they call it. and I passed.  I am now a legal food handler and proud of it.  It is a stupid test because you go through the whole training and then when it comes to taking the test they ask you questions that were not in the training... excuse me but how can I know how many parts of chlorine bleach to water it takes if you don't ever tell me...  Several what I would call "trick" questions were in the exam as well.  But I passed with a 93% so I must not have done all bad and  since they don't tell you which ones you missed... I guess I'll never know what I did wrong.  Well, in the meantime - I am legal and although I don't want to, I guess I can work in the restaurant . whoo hoo!

61 and still counting

Well I turned 61 on Saturday.  We had been to Susan and Richard's the night before for a delicious steak dinner and creme brulee' for dessert.  I love how Susan always makes such great desserts - she experiments on us!  She is a wonderful cook and everything is always so delicious at her house.  We played some hearts and I know Susan lost - I don't know where I fell in the numbers or even who won... probably Richard.  He wiped us all out once.  Susan tried to once but I think lost by only a few cards.
Saturday I opened up the cafe for Amy since she was in SLC and then Dani and Dave came in and worked for me so I could have the day off.  It was so nice of them.  We went to dinner at Costa Vida and did dinner and a movie so we went to see 17 Miracles.  It was about the Willie Handcart company and told about documented miracles that happened to various people on the trek.  I really enjoyed it and was humbled by it.
Sunday I went to Sacrament at the YSA stake and enjoyed visiting with several people including Terry Worthen who is such a great guy.  Dave is very lucky to be in their family.  They are good people and we always enjoy some good laughs with them.
I did my stint in the nursery.  I feel so bad for some of those little guys who cry and cry.  One little boy, Ethan, has cried everytime I have been there for most of the time.  He loves to chase the bubbles at the end of the time but that is about all he likes except he will sit and have some treats pretty good.  One little boy came in screaming at the top of his lungs (last week he cried like that the entire time except for about a 20 minute nap.)  This week though, he actually stopped crying a played with the other children after the first few minutes... that was a miracle! My friend Susan Greenburg suggested that I might not like the calling but she thought I would love the little children and she is absolutely right.  I already have a soft spot in my heart for Ethan, Lydia, Sloan, Kate and Cooper.  Lydia, Sloan and I played barrel of Monkeys for the entire first hour...it was crazy.
After nursery, I came home and read some of my Book of Mormon.  I am keeping up pretty well with me ward reading assignment for the summer.  Tonight I am right on track with Alma 28 - actually I am one chapter ahead... good for me!
We went to Jay and Sara's for Hawaiian which was delicious and we also had home-made ice cream and chocolate cake from Costco.  Jim got me a new blow dryer and a lovely piece of pottery from Leapin' Lizards... Amy got me a bracelet that has some kind of Anion thing in it and is supposed to cure all the things that ail you... I hope it works.  Pete and the kids called w/ a recording for my birthday and it sounded so cute.  I talked to Jim and Mike and enjoyed both conversations so much. 
So all in all a good birthday weekend.
Spent today getting John's kitchen organized and then tonight we helped him clean the other house.  I know so well the feeling of wanting to get in to the new place but having all those little things you have to do at the old place.  Amy and Jim were both great to come help too... Amy did the downstairs mopping and cleaned the refrigerator... Jim vacuumed the entire house in perfect little back and forth motions!  John has to go back tomorrow and clean the carpets as well as mow the lawn.  The house looks really clean... I hope they give him his deposit back.
So that is about all for now.  It is almost 11 and I am not feeling too tired (it must be my bracelet!)  We are planning to go to St. George and to the temple tomorrow.  I am so looking forward to it!  Haven't been in several months and I really feel the need.

We are making it!

I think we are making it at the LBH.  Today was our second day of cooking food and even had repeat customers (the Sowards - but none the less).  I feel that Amy and John want to kick me out of the kitchen and I think that is actually okay with me.  I get too intense and as I mentioned on John's blog I hate food safety!  I can't stand having to put on and take off gloves 25 times a day...  I figure if I can wash my hands that should be enough - now John tells me that I have to sing the ABC's all the way through while I wash my hands - pitiful.  On top of that - then I have to put gloves on! 

We have some cute girls working for us and I think they like that kitchen work so I am glad to turn it over to them.  I don't mind cleaning up the garbage and wiping down tables but I think Amy, David and John are doing great on their own. 

We had a great weekend and I just realized I haven't written anything about it.  It started out with a bang when Jim crashed on the mountain bike and ended up with two broken bones in his left and and a broken humorous bone in his shoulder.  He was badly skinned up and unable to even feed himself for the whole weekend but what a great sport -though in pain he didn't keep us from celebrating both on Sunday with a family dinner and on Monday with a BBQ at Jay and Sara's house.  John mentioned that he had a good time playing with the cousins and I think he did!  Having uncles and aunts and gmas and gpas is fun!  I remember wonderful Christmas eves with my Aunts and Uncles  and other occasions when we all got together.  I am glad that Jim and Clorinda and kids come up as often as they can and also Laura and Nigel and Mike and Liana.  Of course we haven't seen John and his kids too often until this year but now he is here for some good times.   Only wish that Pete and Tara could be here more often. 

Well, I have taken my sleeping pill and so about to fall asleep.  I think I get tomorrow "day"off and Dani is going to work.  I have to work tomorrow night but looking forward to a few hours of just doing what I want - hope I get to.  I know I have books to do and a few other things but I am hoping to work in the yard a bit and maybe go to the library.  I am missing the river that we spent so much time at last year (meaning Natty, Jack and Andy and me)  haven't even been over to see how it looks - don't know if the Jay Fontanos have been over either... maybe if it doesn't rain we could take a trip to the park.  Would be fun.

So that is it... looking forward to a good sleep tonight. 

Life beyond xmen

Tonight Jim and I went to see Xmen... Not the best show I have seen but entertaining enough.  I have had the thought however that I am so glad there is more to my life than gong to movies or following movie stars or keeping up with fads.  I came home and read my scriptures tonight.  I am reading Mosiah right now and the story of Abinadi.  So grateful that Alma listened to Abinadi... that he didn't follow the crawd and that he was willing to run and then to teach.  Truly an example of courage and faith.  A far greater hero than any of the Xmen could ever be. 
I doubt that I could ever truly express my deepest gratitude for the Book of Mormon... for the fact that I was raised in the church and taught the principles of the Gospel.  What a good life I have had because I have a testimony.  Not to say that I always live righteously "enough".  I find that I often fall short or that I am just lazy but my intentions are generally good and I do love my Heavenly Father.  I love the prophets who have all been such great examples to me in my growing up years... from President McKay to President Monson.  Each has been such a great light in my life.
So I guess I go back to "who are the real heroes"  Just men who live by the rules... who listen to the Lord.  Who have faith and courage.  So grateful for the examples they have all been to me.

Nursery...oh my

I've had a feeling for sometime that my next calling would be in the nursery... and tonight oh yes it came true.  I think I might be in store for special blessings!  I haven't worked in nursery for many years and I haven't wanted to!  But I am glad to have a calling and perhaps by my being there every week I will be a source of help to these little ones!  We shall see!  I must say that it will be a chance for me to really serve!  I will be one of those people they say... "oh yes there is a sweet old grandma in there that takes care of our little one!"  Well better me than some young girl who has a house full of children and never gets to escape .  I am sure it'll be GREAT!

Cheaper by the Dozen

I am watching Cheaper by the Dozen... one of my favorite books and movies too.  I believe my Mom introduced me to it.  A great movie... so funny!  One of those movies that you can watch over and over again and enjoy it every time.  My favorite is watching them all in their open aired (convertible car) fitting in somehow and driving all over town laughing and singing. 
Got some sad news tonight from Jim... Clayton has been diagnosed with osteomylitis... a bone infection.  I understand it is the same disease that Joseph Smith had when he had his operation.  Clayton will have to be going in for tests this next week and then we'll see if he needs an operation.  From what I read they go in a cut out the dead bone and then give anti-biotics over about 6 weeks or so.  He is certainly in our prayers.  And I am hoping it is a mild case... I guess we'll find out in the next few weeks.
As far as the shop goes... well it is coming along.  The guys got the plumbing finished today!!!  Now we just have to add a few more cooking items and shelves.  Next week?///

Coke machine means progress

I think we are going to make this project!  Today I came in to find that we had an operating coke machine with light lemonade! and two drains that work in the kitchen.  We are waiting for a faucet for the triple sink but it should be here by Weds. and the guys should get the other faucet in tomorrow for the mop sink. Awesome!
Never thought a coke machine would mean so much to me!  Oh, and we also have a security system installed... bravo!   Plus: somebody bought 2 of the wreaths today - amazing! 

A different Father's Day

Yesterday we had the "Cedar" family for dinner.  It was hectic but it was fun.  Grandpa received many favorite food items (including Hawaiian Sun samples from Jay and family). A cute "Home Depot" apron from John complete with Jim written on it and some Asian mix.  Dave and Dani packed a box titled "Mr. Home Depot" with favorites like pretzels and mustard and a Mtn Dew (oh and also a can of Dap - "a little Dap will do ya" has been a current comment while working in the shop.  Amy had a cute picture of herself and her Dad that she made on a board that said I love you.  Very creative gifts that took some time and thought.and I am sure he appreciated it. 
I guess all we "old" people really want at this stage of our lives is just to be remembered and occasionally thanked.  Life is hard and having kids is a lot of work.  We don't really need anything of material value (although it is often appreciated) but a phone call or a card (yes Laura and Jim and families both saw that cards were sent) is all we are hoping for.  I reflect at the days when my Dad was alive and I just didn't take the time to write or call like I should have.  I am sure that hurt him far more than I realized then.  He was always so good to us and I know he did his best to see that we were taken care of.  Many a time I would get something in the mail from him that would have some money in it that would come at a great time.  It was a blessing beyond what I realized at the time.  Not to say I didn't appreciate it, just that it was his way of expressing his love and that I don't think I appreciated as much as I should have.  He was a great dad and I wish I could have just been more caring to him.
The odd thing today was that in John and Jay's ward (see John's blog) the High Council rep spoke on Divorce and said many insensitive tings about divorce.  In today's world where families are surrounded by those going through divorce it ruffles some of my feathers to have someone over the pulpit be so insensitive toward those who have been victims.  To think that all of the pain and struggle John has gone through this year to pick up the pieces after his divorce makes me want to lash out.  Perhaps he was just trying to help those contemplating divorce but sadly there were probably many in his congregation who have been the ones left hanging and who struggle everyday being a single parent.  In John's situation, I don't know what is the best answer when divorce is contemplated... I know that I came from parents who were both divorced and much better in their second marriages.  They provided a good home for us... sadly I know that both of my brothers suffered from my mom's divorce but other factors can figure in there as well - her first husband was an alcoholic among other things...
So I am not getting on a boxtop about divorce but I do feel that it was sad that on a day celebrating fathers my son who is a great father and who struggles with his insecurities about how well he is doing, had to be blasted about a circumstance he had no control over...  sorry John.
Well that is all for now.  Speaking of John, I am going to pack up his kitchen as he will be moving around the corner next to Jay and Sara in the next couple of weeks.  Not enough that we have this project at the LBH but both he and Jim and I have also moved in the interim... 
One more thing:  Happy Father's Day to my husband who is a great and loving man.  I am glad we have been together these many years.  He has provided me with a good and an adventurous life!

Dinner and a movie

Every week Jim and I go to dinner and a movie - sometimes we do it a couple of times.  The last two weeks we have gone with John and Dani and Dave.  Last week to celebrate having our first day open in the new building and this week to just go mostly to see Super 8.  It was a well done movie and we had some good scares as well as some laughs.  We usually eat at Wingers because they do the dinner and a movie deal.  This Monday Jim is going to talk to Westgates theaters and see if our Little Brick House can do "dinner and a movie".  It would be a good deal for us I think.  We are looking forward to opening the restaurant soon.  We are now working on the plumbing and after blowing a fuse with the icemaker being a little heavy on the power we got that fixed up.  I guess I say "we" but should really say "the guys."  Dad does the Home Depot runs and John and Dave work at the physical stuff.  They are a great team. 
Today was a good day because I had one lady come in to buy fudge (specifically) and one many come in to buy a basket for his wife's birthday.  Like they came in to the store for a purpose that only we could fill and that is awesome!  Sara's booth also did well today and sold a cape, a tutu, a couple of swords, and a want and head ribbon thing!  I think her little booth will do well.
Hoping that things pick up.  I sent out another email with a 20% sale coupon.  That will run this week and I hope some folks come in for that.  I am ready for the new part of this to start working.  The shop is cute but we need some energy! 
I am proud of myself also this summer because I have kept up with my Book of Mormon reading schedule. I think by tomorrow I will be through 2nd Nephi - awesome.  Reading the scriptures helps me so much each day to feel a peace and calm I don' otherwise feel. 
Tomorrow is Father's day... I am so uncreative but I did get a book for Jim and a couple of shirts.  Hope he likes them okay.  He'll probably hate me for inviting all the family over - oh well,   We enjoyed a fun meal last night in St. George at the Texas Roadhouse thanks to Laura and her sweet card and gift card.  It was fun to run down there and hit Costco and DI.  I let Jim pick up the $120 or so tab for Costco and I put the $15 bill on my debit card... 

To the Basement

Today we moved the basket making area back down to the basement in the new building.  I was hoping to have a nice area upstairs but it was unrealistic.  We need the space upstairs for selling and I can easily make baskets or florals in the basement.  There is a lot of room to work so I really shouldn't complain.  Perhaps it is the 500 lbs. of cherry chips stacked next to where I will work that bother me... what does one do with all of those chips... I don't even want to carry them upstairs and yet I think they need to go to the dumps - they have to be 5 or 6 years old .  I have tasted some however and they don't taste bad.  We might decide to make some cherry chip cookies with them.  Maybe we could make some cherry chip fudge.  Whatever we do, I don't think we'll ever get through all of those bags!
The basement also smells like the bakery or at least a bakery.  I doubt that smell will ever go away.  One day we need to clear out all of the old pans and other junk down there. I think we're going to put in a sink and work table for doing flowers.  Perhaps it will end up to be a great hangout for all our little projects... Even if it is, I doubt I'll ever like being down in the basement. 
That is kind of funny too because I used to have a basement club when I was about 6.  We met in my aunt's basement where we were living. all of my parents stuff was stored down there and we would crawl in behind some boxes and play club.  Later, at Susan Pollocks we had an attic club in her attic of course.  That club had a bit more culture and we would produce plays.  At the same time, we had a basement at our house and that basement club would buy and sell various items found in the basement. 
So in my early years I guess I was preparing myself for being relegated back to the basement... like it or not. To bad this building doesn't have a real attic...

The Day of Rest

I don't know that I have ever looked forward to resting on the Sabbath day like I have this week.  We have been going strong for 6 full days with little time at home and most of the time at the shop.  The time at the shop has been busy with moving and building and all the other things that we had to do to get ready to open.  I just kept thinking that I could take a nap on Sunday.  I slept int til 9:30 am (because we don't have church until 11 am) and then when I came home this afternoon I took a short nap while I waited for a pie to cook in the oven.  It seemed like I had barely dozed off when the timer went off but it was enough to give me a second wind and it felt good.
John came to dinner tonight and it was fun to have hm but I know he is missing his kids and would much rather be with them.  It is a hard adjustment to go from constant direction from a group of children to having too much of your own time on your hands.  I know... I am still adjusting - although I do enjoy being able to call my own shots after so many years of being directed by my children's wants and needs.
I just read Liana's blog about her sister.  It was a darling tribute to her little sister who she loves and misses.  I know that there is something about having a sister or sisters that is amazing.  I have a bond with my sister that still exists although we haven't seen each other in years again.  We can talk on the phone after months of not hearing from each other and it is like we just talked yesterday.  I see that same bond with Laura and Amy.  There is a kinship that is such a blessing. 
the opening of the shop went well yesterday.  We had about 60 or so people come through and they seemed excited about our new place.  I wish I had a little more control over how people decorate but I guess they are renting the space.  I might talk to Marie about how to handle that.  I want to re-decorate three no actually four spaces badly but don't know how to broach it with them.  We'll see what goes and if I get tougher.
Tomorrow is another day of getting ready but I think we'll lighten up a little bit.  People can come through but we can work around that.  We'll try to get our menu together (again).  The guys want wraps and salads that are just the other sandwiches in a different style.  Interesting! 
Well, I think I am off to bed now.  Life is good and I am grateful for the Sabbath.  I read six chapters in the Book of Mormon and several articles in the Ensign.  Grateful for words of the Prophets.

A light at the end of the tunnel

Tonight I think I saw a light at the end of the tunnel.  It was after 10 when I left the shop but I felt encouraged that we just might get this thing finished and pulled together.  Tomorrow we will have a Sneak Peek and hope that we will get some people to come in and check things out.  We are offering some free food so we just might get a few friends and interested parties to show up.  We hope so.
Anyway, I felt like things looked good today.  I am just about done - at least with my moving in of my stuff, Kay Benson has a nice display of photography, Sara brought in her cute dress-ups, I got the jewelry in the case and it looks good, I like the way the tables are set up in different parts of the store so people can eat all over.  Just thinking we need to pipe in some music and get some candle smells going.  Jim got  a lot done today with kitchen metal covers and the gondola for the back room.  Also John got old doors and the door divider started.  I'm feeling good.  Now I am going to get to bed because we need to get up and make soup for however many tomorrow... 

SNEAK PEEK

I had an idea to have a SNEAK PEAK for the Little Brick House on Saturday.  Our usual soup/bread fare with fudge and cookies.  Waters but perhaps they can be cold since we do have a huge fridge and freezer.  Hope some people come in.  It could be fun.  I am please with the results and thinking that it is a big help to have our consignors and our vendors.  I hope they will invite people to come in as well. 
We got home tonight by 8 pm and that was so nice.  We are hoping to get done in time tomorrow night to go to a movie.  We have been working so many long hours it gets hard on the body but good results are coming from it.  We bought (leased) signs today for the top of the building.  It will cost quite a bit but should be worth it if people can see our shop and come in. 
I am thinking how focused on the shop I am right now with little time for other interests.  I have started a summer reading of the Book of Mormon program and right now I am up to date - already in 2nd Nephi and just been reading for a week.  We will actually finish by mid  August.  I will pick up then on and finish where I was when the challenge started... finishing The Book of Mormon twice this summer... cool.
I am trying to also read Dorian Gray which I read in High School I think.  It is by Oscar Wilde so written in the late 1900s and a bit odd.  I loved it the first time I read it... this time not so much.  Perhaps I'll get more into it as I get deeper into the story.  Having recently read the Importance of Being Ernest... I do see similarities in the writing but where the play is quite comical, the book is not...
Well bed is sounding good about now.  It's 10:15 and I'm aching all over.  One last thing I want to say however... I have noticed already that people are seeing things in the shop they didn't see before.  I have had two people comment on the big table I bought from Diane Delport and no one ever saw it in the other shop. Funny.  I think this may be a very good thing.

Every inch of me hurts

I am amazed that we have made it for yet another day.  The shop is not done but we keep plugging along and one day I know that we will be finished and people will come and love the store.  It is turning out great but there is so much to do.  I am having trouble fitting it all in.  I was disappointed tonight when I got my order from Victoria something or other that it wasn't up to the quality I was hoping for.  I keep doing that and hoping that the bargains will be better than they are.  I did get some cute aprons... I doubt that they will last too long but we'll make them work for awhile.
We had people come in today who make jewelry from flat-ware.  It is what Jim has been looking for.  They are going to get a display case and will be coming back soon.  That was exciting.  Kay Bensons pictures are exciting.  The Hamptons furniture is wonderful.  Joan brought in some great furniture to display her pottery.  I am really please with it.  John did a great job at the two black cases and I filled one with baskets.  It looks great - like people can see what we sell easily.  The tables in the back rooms look like they will work great... things are looking good.
I am exhausted and headed for bed.  Need to get the menu put together again.  Hope we get things pretty much complete tomorrow - hope to open Saturday for the shop at least.
 

Yeah... I'm in!

Over the last number of days I have been trying to post and haven't been able too.  My limited computer abilities were not at work but I just got in!  I am so excited.  I doubt that I have anything to say but at least I have the ability to say it.
Well I guess I could say how exhausted I am.  We are now a full week late in opening the store and we are not ready yet... but we are getting there!  The plumber didn't show up today.  He was the one who showed up last time when the first one didn't show up.  Now since he didn't show up Jim called Bruce Thompson and guess what... he didn't show up either.  Maybe tomorrow.  That is how it goes with services in Southern Utah - they suck.
For the most part the new LBH is coming along.  We only have about 3 or 4 big pieces of furniture to move over now.  I should get most of my stuff done tomorrow.  Only one disappointment with our renters so far.  This one lady rented a room but really only needed a wall and so her stuff is spread out all over and looks lousy.  Dave and John are very irritated.  Jim wants me to tell her that we need to get her stuff off the floor - which we do. 
I don't seem to have half the space I want.  I took over one room that was for renting and I have filled it up.  Most of the stuff in that room however is junk but I am going to work at replacing it with fun stuff.  Several of our renters have not shown up to put up their stuff.  We were going to open tomorrow but with that being the case and the fact that we are still behind, I don't feel too badly that we might have held them up. 
So much for jabbering on about the shop.  I am pleased with the way things are looking and think I'll even be more excited when we get things moved around a little more tomorrow! 
I did get a double bed today!  Elmalynn Prince brought in a bedroomset that was her father's.  The bed wouldn't go together... it needs some bolts and so then we couldn't set it all up and we have this mattress.  I decided I could bring the mattress home and just pay for it.  John took the twin mattress for Natty's trundle.  So it all worked out good.  I also brought home my wicker couch for the front porch and it looks awesome.  I also got the rug from the entry room to put in my entry because it matches my livingroom rug... Life in the consignment business can have it's rewards!

Learning from your kids

So many things have happened in my life that I didn't really expect.  One I am recognizing tonight is that I have learned so much from my kids.  When I read John's blog, I always learn something.  He is an amazing individual.  I am so glad that he shares his thought and experiences on his blog.  This last year has been such a treat to have him and the kids here in Cedar.  I love seeing them so often and I love hearing about their experiences.

I also learn so much from the other kids.  How they face their trials... each one certainly has them.  I marvel when Sara tells me how she advises not only her own children but John's also... (and I guess Jim's sometimes).  She has such wisdom and I learn a lot from the things she tells me.

I am grateful for this blog experience.   I learned today that Mike and Liana have a blog and I can't wait to read it.  I know Laura shares a lot on her blog and I enjoy reading that too.  I don't know if anyone ever reads my blog but they are welcomed to.  I appreciate being able to review things going on in my life whether or not they are read by others. 

I know for awhile I was writing some comments about things I had learned each day or things I was grateful for.  I stopped doing that and just now remembered it.  On Sunday one of the girls talked about recognizing God's hand in your life in three different ways and listing those every day.  Maybe I'll try that approach ...
1.  enjoying my new house and I know Heavenly Father helped us to get it
2.  met some great ladies who came into the shop today and actually bought things... this little shop has been such a fun experience and I recognize God's hand in helping us to put it together... it brings me out of my self when I have to talk to new people and I actually think I am pretty good at it
3.  there is a little sister that comes into the shop often and just looks around.  I thought she was a little crazy at first and the more I get to know her, the more I appreciate the spirit she brings with her.  She came in today and we had a sweet little chat.

Cruisin... the way to live

Well we took a cruise up the coast of California, Oregon and Washington last week.  We stared in LA and ended in Vancouver BC.  It was delightful.  We needed the rest and we were well pampered.  The last half of the week was a little chilly but we managed to get in some time by the pool on the ship and we got to the places we wanted to go in the ports.
San Francisco
We loved San Francisco of course.  We went first thing to the old Ferry Building.  I remember my dad and mom telling me about the days when people took the ferry from Oakland to San Francisco because the Bay Bridge was not yet done.  While we were looking across the bay a fellow told us about the Bay Bridge being rebuilt on the East Bay side and sure enough we could the new structure.  He said it was costing much more than expected and was still not complete after quite a few years... what a surprise.  Speaking of bridges, we got up early and were on deck to come under the Golden Gate.  It was so neat to me.  I love that area and the opportunity to just take some time and not only see the bridge but also the wharf, and the city was great. 
For lunch we went to Fisherman's Grotto #9... it was awesome, my favorite shrimp, clam chowder and Sour Dough bread.  We sat where we almost always seem to sit, looking out at the boats.  I am so amazed at how many years have gone by and that restaurant - tables, chairs, carpet, bathrooms, and waiters has stayed the same.  We went to that restaurant when we got engaged because it was a favorite place to go while we were dating.   I even took a little book that I have collected over the years that is the same with the same recipes in it... 
Astoria
Astoria is a darling town full of Antique shops.  We got some great "oddities" there in a thrift shop for just a little bit of money.  One is a tiger and another a leopard - both remind me of things Jim's grandparents used to have.  We brought them back for the shop.  We didn't buy any other things that I can think of but we did eat at a cute restaurant called the Urban Cafe and it was fun.  It was so much like what we would like to do with the Brick House Cafe.. they had old door hanging, old windows with menu items. and curtains to separate areas.  I was amazed that so much of our creativity was reflected in that place.  They even took orders at the register but then served people.  They used plastic fruit to put numbers on when you ordered.  They had checkerboard paper in baskets for sandwiches etc. similar to what we plan to do. 
We also went to the old Astoria theater that they have restored... it was called the Liberty Theater as I recall and it was beautiful and beautifully done.  Another place that was fun was a great antique store in an old hotel.  The floor must have been a hundred years old and done in those old white octagonal shapes... they had all kinds of stuff and we were kind of glad we were on the boat and couldn't take it home, although we might just have to go back up there.
We found a window and watched us sale out of the Columbia river into the ocean.  It was so beautiful but made Jim a bit seasick... he's getting old.
Victoria
We had a day at sea after Astoria and then found ourselves in Victoria.  It was not a beautiful day, rather cold and wet but we still found some great things to do.  Another fun restaurant with a avocado and shrimp sandwich which was delicious.  We then went to the Empress Hotel and looked around and then over to the BC museum which was as wonderful as I remembered it from 21 years ago when we cruised to Alaska with Costa and since the boat "the Daphne" had hit a submerged log we got to take a tour of both Vancouver and Victoria Island.  We went to Bouchart Gardens on that trip and it was so beautiful but this trip they said it was about $50 a person and since the weather was not cooperating we opted to stay in town and see some shops and of course the museum. 
Nanaimo
We were the first cruise ship to ever visit Nanaimo.  It was a cute little town on Victoria Island and for being the first ones to ever have been entertained by these folks, we were impressed.  Again the weather was very wet and windy.  We even bought umbrellas at the dollar store... and the wind blew mine inside out so it didn't even make it out of Nanaimo.  We found a really cute shop there where we bought a Pinocchio puppet.  I don't know if we will take it to the shop or not.  I like it so much.
Vancouver
I wished we had stayed for the day in Vancouver.  We thought we needed to get back home but we still didn't make it home Sunday and we could have probably arranged to stay overnight in Vancouver and then fly early Monday to LA... Oh well, hindsight...   Our trip home was okay but long and tiresome.
NCL
Just so that I remember... NCL was not my favorite cruise line.  Not to say that I am not grateful for the trip, nor am I totally disappointed with the service... it just isn't quite what Royal Caribbean has been in the past.  I did have one EXCELLENT dessert called Chocolate Decadence.  It was so fabulous.  We also enjoyed the buffet upstairs.  They had a great variety and especially for breakfast - I got one of my two favorites everyday...  Eggs Benedict or Omelet with everything.
The entertainment was wonderful.  Two crazy guys called Sharkbait performed and a group who sang Frankie Valley songs was very enjoyable.  There was also a comedian who had done a documentary on laughing that was very, very good.
Our main problem was the attitude of much of the staff, particularly the waiters.  Weren't really as friendly as we found on all of the other ships we have been on.  We had what they call Freestylin' and that meant we could eat when we wanted and where we wanted.  Since there were only two of us we went and different times and never really connected with any waiter.  We did that also on the Princess ship but the food there was so much better.
Well anyway, it is good to be home with wonderful memories.  The weather here the last two days has been so nice.  I even mowed the lawn last night and Jack and Nattie came over and helped me move rocks... it seems like I am always moving rocks! I am liking my little house a whole lot.  It is just the right size for us.  I finished the living room yesterday and I guess the family room too.  I am stealing a brass pot back that we had for sale here that Mike and Liana gave us to sell or keep and I have decided I want to keep this one.  I'll put it on the kitchen cupboards.
Back to work.  I wrote quite a bit here but then I haven't written for awhile.  Oh one more thing... I am learning how to text although Jim says the last text I sent him didn't go through.  I'll keep practicing!

Basket day

Today I am making baskets.  I just found out that Mother's Day is May 8th and I will be gone so I need to get a variety of baskets available in the store for people coming through and HOPEFULLY buying.  I also have 3 baskets to make for some Mother of the Year competition - of course a donation... we always get into these businesses where everyone wants us to donate...  When you are a small business it isn't that easy to do.  Hopefully it means that people will taste the treats and come in to buy a basket for someone else or buy something else in the store.

I do like making the baskets however.  It is fun to pick the theme and tie the ribbons.  I love cellophane I have to say.  It is cool to see how fun a basket can look all dressed up in ribbon and cellophane.  I keep having to change out the things in the baskets however.  The candy lasts a good long time but some of the other things like cookies just don't last all that long.

I am kind of excited... making baskets takes up my time.  Here it is 3:10 PM and that is just about all I've done today is make baskets and clean the shop.  Cool!  I am getting hungry however and Jim hasn't come back with anything to eat or to give me a break.  So I've been eating candy and that isn't good.  I had a great bag of chocolate covered toffee that was in a basket remake from Valentines.  Couldn't sell it but sure could eat it myself even if I know I shouldn't.  It was still fresh and good.  Too bad, I ate it!

The Little Brick House is getting bigger

Things are going good across the street.  I think Jim and John (and Dave) are feeling tired from all the work we have had them do...  including our move in the middle of it all.  I am excited to see what happens to the store itself.  We have had quite a few people tell us that they want to put some things in the shop and have booths as well.  Today a lady told me that she was a great baker and might want to make some pies etc. for us.  That might work out great since we were just saying last night that there wasn't any place in town where you can get great desserts.  Hope it works out.

We are heading to California on Sunday for our Anniversary trip.  We are excited and probably just to relax and rest up as much as anything... and eat of course.  I think I already mentioned that I am so looking forward to going under the Golden Gate Bridge.  It should be awesome.

The Green house is coming along.  There is a lot of Green in that carpet but I am finding that other colors blend in okay.  I have tried to get most of the pictures up and just might finish tonight.  I am not crazy about the birdhouse shelf - it is a little too high but not much I can do about it now.  The wall looks to plain to me so I am working on it.  I find that I get emotional when things don't go right but I know that I will work on it until it feels right and I am happy.  I know that Jim thinks I am a freak about this stuff... but sadly enough it is just in my soul.

Well, my customers just left so I need to head downstairs and finish up a bit more work before closing time.  It is a beautiful day outside and I am excited to get out and feel it!

Egg Salad and fudge...

We have been moving all morning... Jim, John, Jay, Dave and Dad and me... this is a much smaller move than in the past but it is at a bad time for the guys.  They have been working like crazy at the LBH trying to get the floors ready... the sanding went pretty well but trying now to get the glue off the cement floors has been a bear.  I don't know what time Jim got home last night but Dave said it was after 10:30 pm when he did and I am sure the same  for Jim... I know I was asleep.
Last move we also set up the LBH and so it was complicated too.  It seems like we seldom take a breather. I am glad that we will have employees over at the LBH and may be we can all take some days off without being so busy.  The thing is that it isn't so hard, it just doesn't make much money for the amount of work we do.  I didn't realize how tired I was today until I started getting the furniture in the house and could see that the colors were gross together.  I mean, what do you do with green carpet... especially when your green is olive and drab and the carpet is bright green.  So anyway, I was feeling frustrated and here comes Clorinda with turkey and egg salad sandwiches... I had to come over the the LBH to work and so I grabbed an egg salad on my way and enjoyed every bite.  I think I can take on the rest of the move.  This is going to be a trial for me... I know we don't have money for new carpet so I'll have to make due with what we have and be patient until we can change the brite green for something a little more our color.
I am sitting here typing and looking at a book Mike sent by Gary Taubes again.  It is on Why We Get Fat... just looking at the title made me want some fudge... so I ate a piece (a large piece) and it made me about as happy as the egg salad.
Who says that food isn't the great pacifier.  I think we'll go to dinner with the kids tonight to say thanks for their help... That will probably give me my second wind and I'll be able to get that house together!

The Dunes

Today we went to the Sand Dunes in Snow Canyon with Jay and Sara and kids, John and kids, Clorinda and kids.  It was a fun afternoon and we got covered with sand - especially those children with runny noses who seemed to keep diving head first into the sand.  Many of them dug deep holes and crawled in and then covered themselves with sand... laughing all the time.  Tommy adored the sand and several times headed down the hill crawling as fast as he could.  The adults were also good participants and enjoyed digging with the children.  Mack brought a kite and flew it quite successfully when the wind came up a few times.  We came home with pink cheeks following our trip to Baskin Robbins for ice cream cones.

We had dinner at Johns with rotisserie chickens and potatoes and other goodies that Clorinda brought.  The kids hung out in the back yard on John's rope tree where they built a hammock as well.  Jim and I returned home to take a peek at the new house now that we have paid for next month's rent and have a key.  It looks very clean and should be quite good.  The carpet of course is green and could be a tough match for some of our furniture but I am going to try to make it all work.  We don't have the funds to re-carpet right now so I think we'll have to be happy with what we have.  I am excited to have a little office area.  I have found it hard to mix home with office both when we have our office in the home and when we have the home stuff on the office computers.  I am hoping this will work.  I plan to keep the home bills and church activity stuff on the computer in the house.  Hopefully I can work out of the house a couple of days a week when I am not assigned to be at the office.

Anyway, the new house looked great and I am excited to get moving.  Hopefully we will get some things over there tonight.  I would like to do the stuff that I can put in closets and cabinets... kitchen and bathroom... etc.  I think the insides of the house shouldn't take much doing... the garage is another story as always.

Well, I need to go to work again.  Not that anyone is here but I have some computer stuff to do and hopefully the internet is back up... should be since I am typing on this..

Spring has sprung?

I keep thinking that spring will spring but we see to get a few good days and then several cold and blistery ones.  That is the Cedar City Spring...  I am enjoying the budding trees and daffodils and tulips.  John's yard is full of them and they are so pretty!  I already wrote a post about daffodils and tulips but I don't seem to see it posting - I don't get things right everytime.  Anyway I mentioned in that post that I had observed some green plants in John''s back yard last summer through fall and wondered when they would bloom.  Never thinking that they might have already bloomed.  Well such is the case.  They are a small purple flower that is through out his back yard and beautiful right now...

We have $19 in our LBH account right now.  Not good.  I am really  hoping it is going to pick up soon.  Can't really afford to buy anything it sell.  We haven't had more than a dozen visitors all week but perhaps today.  We have had one visitor this morning and it was before 11 am!  It is Friday so sometimes that means good things...  While I'm thinking about it I need to put out our sign and some little furniture to draw people in so I'll be going back to work now!

Low Back Pain

Several years ago when Amy was between 3 and 5 I really had a bad time with my back.  I went to Doctor Dudley weekly and was in so much pain.  I discovered that many years of luggiing babies and doing laundry were the main problems.  When we moved to Las Vegas and Amy became old enough to get places on her own and I think when some of my other routines changed a bit, my back just seemed to heal itself.  I haven't really needed to go to a chiropractor since... at least until last year and that was when my upper back gave me a few problems.

When we were in SLC for our anniversary trip I wrenched my back and ended up in Dr. Murie's office on Tuesday.  He helped me through it until this Monday when it flared up again and then Tuesday I bent over to brush my teeth and thought I was going to die.  By the afternoon I had a pain that went from my lower back to my knee and Dr. Murie wasn't available.  I took some ibuprofen and some excedrin.  I tried to walk but the pain kept getting worse...  Jim gave me a blessing last night and I was able to sleep in one position most of the night but when I got up to go to the bathroom I had to hunch over like a little old lady to make the nerve pain better unfortunately that made the lower back pain worse.  Finally I rubbed my self on the front and the pain went away in the back... go figure.  I got into Dr. Murie again and I hope that works for awhile.  I am not supposed to bend and twist... hope I get better because we have a lot of moving to do.

We went to Jack's 7th birthday party last night and to Amy's 22nd on Sunday and Monday.  Monday was at Milts with Dave and Amy and we had a good time.  Amy and I also spent her birthday just hitting a few stores and going out to lunch.  We had a nice time together.  Tonight we are going to Dani's for a girls night and watching Tangled.

Tomorrow I plan to work on JMA stuff and also on some menu and works shifts.  Hope I get it all done. I made about 7 or 8 Easter Baskets today and hope to sell them some time.  Not much business coming through right now and people seem to resent the fact that we are moving across the street when I mention it and yet the quaint little house isn't making much money as a museum.  We get a few people in everyday and then we are lucky if they spend $10... hopefully over there we can make some money too!

Well I am out of here.  Have to go home and see if my ice bag leak from this morning has dried up on my quilt.  I fell asleep and it just kept melting all over.  I am getting so old... back aches, and wettin' the bed!

Happy Birthday Nigel

I understand Nigel woke up to a phone call this morning (on his 31st birthday) telling him he has a new job!  I am so excited and glad for him and for Laura.  I hope all goes well and that this will develop into a career...  at least if that is what he wants.
I am glad to check them off my prayer list.  Now hoping for good news for Jay and Dani - jobwise.  So many things to worry about - jobs, new homes, children, having babies, what school to go to.  It seems like it is never ending and worrying about everyone is hard work.  Heck worrying about myself is hard work. 
I didn't take my drops this morning and I can tell that I am more emotional today.  Perhaps it is the threat of snow again that has me upset or maybe just the pressure of the new store.  I am glad for it, believe me.  When I spend a day and no one comes in to the LBH that is upsetting to me.  People seem to be glad we are there but no one seems to have the time or money to visit. Hope they will start soon and that the cafe/shop combo will invite more people in. 
I am exhausted tonight and I think I will just watch a little TV or a movie.  Watched the tourist last night and enjoyed it inspite of knowing how it was going to end up! 
I am on a chocolate fast this week... but I am dying for something sweet - it's hardly worth it if it isn't chocolate. Got into the Spumoni ice cream last night and was just about to have some of that delicious chocolate when I remembered my goal - so had a little of the cherry and pistachio and that was okay but it needed the chocolate to make it really good.  I hate being on this diabetic deal... I knew it was coming but I am such a sweets person and especially more-so when I know I can't be.
Well that is about it for tonight.  Hope I remember my drops tomorrow so I can have a good day... hope Nigel had a good day inspite of getting soooo old! 

Conference Weekend

I love Conference weekend.  This time I was able to watch every session without interuption.  It was wonderful.  I love the feeling of conference and especially enjoyed the Sunday Sessions.  Amy and I were both bawling by the time the afternoon session was over.  I was so touched by Richard G. Scott's stories about his wife, but also loved the other talks as well.  Elder Hollands thoughts about conference were very close to my own.  His comments about Pres. Monson having served as a General Authority (and I think as an apostle) since he was 36 was amazing.  What a dedicated leader he has been.
I will look forward to when the Ensign comes and I can review the talks I heard as well as the Priesthood session.  I spent the Priesthood session with John's sweet children.  We at nachos and played Wipeout.  Andy was feeling better and ate some Nachos also.  I even played some Wipeout with the boys and even though I am terrible at it, I am glad they let me play.  Natty came and took over after awhile.  She is quite the Wii player.
Other things this week have been limited.  I am trying to pack some things up for the move(s).  Will be glad to get the LBH moved and the restaurant up and running.  Ran into one of the girls who used to work at HY at the movies tonight and she doesn't have a job right now and might be interested in working for us again.  She was an awesome worker so I hope she gives us a call.
Not much more to say tonight.  Just glad to repeat how much Conference means to me.  I am so grateful for the spirit that comes and the whole experience.  Hope I can be better.

Anniversary Weekend

What fun we had this weekend in Salt Lake with most of the adult family, only Clorinda, Dani, Pete and Tara were missing.  We went to the temple and enjoyed the live performance there.  There is an amazing spirit that comes while watching the live actors... they do an incredible job.

 Following the temple we ran through the wind to the hotel so Sara and Jay and Jim and John could all register for their rooms.  Amy had watched the baby boys and they had given her a rough time so they were crying.  The wind blowing didn't help and Sara and I moved as quickly as possible to get them to some warmth... and of course feed them.  People were laughing as we hurried past.  Anyway we got checked in and babies fed and then we just hung out until we headed to the Joseph Smith building for dinner at the roof.  We had a room to our selves with a huge round table.  It was great fun with everyone trying things from buffalo to creme brulee. John sampled 20 out of 26 desserts and loved every minute of it.  We had a great waiter named Stephen who took pictures of us and served us well. 

After dinner we went back to the hotel for swimming.  We enjoyed the pool - it was warm!  We also dried off in the sauna which made it nice to get back to the room without freezing to death.

Sunday morning we went to the Tabernacle to hear the Choir and the Spoken Word.  We all found Cal Simmons in the middle of the sixth row up.  It was a powerful experience to hear the Choir in the Tabernacle.  The BYU singers also participated and it was a wonderful time.  After that we went to Laura's complex and enjoyed a nice lunch she had prepared complete with octopus - most of us passed on trying it including Amy who had Laura buy it.  Most of the gang left for home following the lunch but a few of us went back to Laura's house and talked, watched AFV and had more food! 

Monday Dad and I got to Ikea where we bought some great red shelves and also from Standard Restaurant got a great oven and proofer plus a set of bread shelves.  Things are starting to come together for our cafe!  We also went to Rodworks where we found ribbon holders and got ideas for a counter and for ways to hang bags and tissue.  looking good!

Last night we ended our great weekend with Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat which was put on by some Cedar City youth.  It was darling.  Joseph was just a little 9 or 10 year old kid and there were four girls narrating.  It wasn't professional by any means but the efforts were certainly appreciated.  Ben and Connies two daughters were in it, Kadie Norton was Judah, the Espinoza kids were also there with Chelly playing the butler!  So fun.

So I am writing this instead of dusting the store which I must now do.  I pulled my back out over the weekend and will be going to see Dr. Murie this afternoon.  Jim gave me a blessing yesterday which helped a lot but I am still in a sufficient amount of pain and hope the Dr. can help me.

This week we should start clearing out and moving in over at the new store.  There is a lot to be done!  We still need a toaster, grill and two burner stove plus several stainless tables and a triple sink.  We are excited to pull everything together.