Cactus Kat

Cape Cod Adventure

2009-06-03T16:47:00.000-07:00

A humpback whale rolling over and showing his flipper.
A whale blowing
Cranberry Bog
Cape Cod Lighthouse
Whale Tale
The Mayflower
Plymouth Planation
My college roomate and I were able to ake a week long trip to Cape Cod when school let out the end of May. Here are some picturs of that trip.

Remnants of Grandkids

2009-04-05T12:11:00.000-07:00

I was out doing yard work last week and stumbled upon these two items left by my grandsons when they were here for Zane's wedding. I am going to leave them where they are so I can look at them and remember all my sweet cherub grandsons!I love you: Kreed, Dawson, Ryker, Beau, Riggs, Nathan, and Samuel.

A yellow block and the top of ?
The last of a blue Valentine sucker propped by a palm tree.

Cousins

2009-03-22T15:12:00.001-07:00

Cousins 2005 Andersen Side Left to Right:
Amanda, R.D. (front)
Matt, Zane, Tracy, Rachael, Robyn (back)
Cousins 2009 Frentheway Side Left to Right:
Leslie, Matt, Vinnie, Zane, Zach, Seth, Marcus, Rachael

Wedding Day- Feb. 28, 2009 Zane & Hailey

2009-03-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

Meet Mr. and Mrs. Zane Frentheway

Number Seven

2009-02-08T13:45:00.000-08:00

Welcome: Grandson Number 7. Samuel Nicholas Ice

February Already?

2009-02-07T17:58:00.000-08:00

Well, even though Jan. is a long month with 31 days, it surely sped by. I had a great new year's plan to lose a few (ok, a lot) of pounds and did fairly well for the first week of Jan. Then the stress monster crept in and I succumbed to her. I really know what they mean by "Comfort" food.
I have a new grandson, Samuel Nicholas Ice, born Jan. 15, 2009 in Louisville, KY. I flew out there just after he was born and was able to see him, hold him, hold him, until his Mom said it was her turn since I didn't have the working equipment to feed him. Dang! It was a great visit, just a bit cold for this Arizona gal.
This week Zane called me and told me he and Hailey had gone down to get their marriage license. Then reality hit. They really are getting married! In 21 days! They have an apartment and all that, too. We have been making the wedding plans for a few months now, but the license thing is the clincher. My baby is getting married.
I know it will take me some time to get my mind around this fact. Where is that comfort food!!

Weddings

2009-01-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

Well, I went to a dear friend's daughter's wedding over this Christmas Break. It was in Salt Lake City. The reception included some dancing, which was way fun! However, the occasion caused me to recall the "songs" of my children. Matt and Melissa liked "The Colors Of the Wind'" and Rachael and Jon liked 'At Last." I don't know what Zane and Hailey will choose. I have included them on my play list if you want to hear them.

Three Years

2008-12-21T13:58:00.001-08:00

Ah, it has been three years since Chuck died.In our thirty-eight years of marriage he did teach me some important ideas. Let's see, here are some "Chuck-isms" that I have learned:
-Remember, today is the only day you have.
-Don't let the thoughts of the past hold the future hostage.
-The chief cause of failure and unhappiness is trading what you want most for what you want at the moment.
-History repeats itself, so learn from the mistakes made in the past.
-Trust your gut feelings.
-You should love the sinner, but not the sin.
-We are all responsible for our own salvation.
-You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink.
-Families are forever.
-We have guardian angels.
-Heavenly Father loves us.
-We will live again after this life.
-We can repent and begin again.

Merry Christmas.

The Three Magi

2008-12-11T16:05:00.000-08:00

I was talking to a friend today at school who has three older boys. She said it has been a tradition in their family to limit their individual Xmas list to three things they may want. Jesus only received three presents from the Magi. I thought that that was a great idea, especially in this day and age. All you parents with kids may want to consider this idea.

Winter in Arizona

2008-11-29T17:11:00.000-08:00

Yep! Those are almost ripe oranges on my tree. In December no less. This is the land of 75 degrees, sunny, no WIND, oranges, green grass, and petunias weather. Only an insane person would leave here in the winter time. If you need your snow fix just drive 75 miles up the road. I have room at my house for those of you who need extra vitamin D and crave the ability to play outside all winter without a coat, hat, gloves, boots, long underwear, snowsuit, etc.And for my son-in-law, Jon,--GOLF!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-29T16:51:00.000-08:00

Well, we ate out this year. My Dad, my brother,Ray, his daughter,Amanda, and her daughter, Lucy, drove over from Albquerque to enjoy my pies and eat out. We joined some other family at the Cracker Barrel in Sun City. That is like driving to Ft. Collins from Cheyenne, about 40 miles. We had a nice meal and then came home and really devoured my pies. I missed all the traditonal turkey , dressing, sweet potatoes, etc. that I usually fix. But, the up side was I wasn't as stressed nor as tired.I'm all about relieving stress, you know.

Stress

2008-11-15T15:35:00.000-08:00

A picture is worth a thousand words. This picture tells it all! This is what I felt like doing last week while I was trying to upload/download (I don't know which) MUSIC onto this blog. Ahhhhhhhh! No, I wasn't going to pull my cats' hair out, but MY OWN! Anyway, I have few diverse songs on my playlist which reflect my varied tastes in music and the different eras. "Brown Eyed Girl" was one of Chuck's favorite songs. Enjoy, the list is a work in progress.

Veteran's Day and Cupcakes

2008-11-11T11:38:00.000-08:00

Now I know you are all wondering what Cupcakes have to do with Veteran's Day. You are, aren't you? Well, I'll tell you. Nothing, really, except that I have the day off from work because of Veteran's Day and I had to make 3 dozen cupcakes for my class "Cupcake Geology" science activity tomorrow. These cupcakes are no ordinary ones. They are representing the earth and its different layers. So I made up two yellow cake mixes and colored one part red, one part blue, and one part chocolate plus the left over yellow. That means I have four different layers I can combine into one cupcake. Tomorrow, I will talk about how scientists drill into the earth's crust and bring up a core sample which they can then analyze. Our core sampler tool is a clear straw which they drill down into their cupcake with. When they bring up the straw you can see all the layers of the cupcake. They then draw and color a picture of each core sample. It is one of the most fun and educational science activities I do all year. Of course, the kids get to eat their earth when the core samples have all been retrieved and documented.
Now back to Veteran's Day. This last week I had the son of one of our workroom aides come in and speak to the fourth grade about his experience at Marine boot camp in California. He wore his dress uniform but brought two of his camouflage uniforms and let the kids try them on. The boys and girls had some very thoughtful questions and were very interested in his infantry job. We also made cards for the Veteran's Hospital. One of my goals for my students this year is to help them appreciate and respect our Country and all those who serve us so that we can have the freedoms and rights that we have. We did Kids Voting at school and the whole student body got to vote, cast ballots, and get a sticker. It was neat.
Well, now you know what cupcakes and Veterans Day have to do with each other, at least on my planet. If you have the day off, enjoy, but remember you are getting the opportunity to rest and relax because there are now, and have been, men and women risking their lives for you to have the day off.
God Bless America!

VOTE

2008-11-03T17:18:00.000-08:00

Hey, you all living in America! Don't forget to vote!!!! Vote so you will be able to vote next time. It is one right we can't afford to take lightly!

Trip to Louisville

2008-10-19T19:20:00.000-07:00

Zane and Hailey in front of the Louisville Slugger baseball bat museum.

Rachael's home in Louisville Ky.

Zane, Hailey, Rachael, and Nathan at a covered bridge in Indiana. Falling leaves! So peaceful!

Whiteboard Follow-Up

2008-10-19T17:22:00.000-07:00

I love my new whiteboard! It is so much fun to write on, and I purchased a package of Mr. Clean Magic Erasers and they work so well on the board. I decided to fore-go the blackboard paint and just put up fabric for another bulletin board. Anyway, I just thought you'd be really interested in one of my mundane things that have truly made my days brighter.

In With New and Out With The Old Part 2

2008-09-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it happened today at about 2:45. My school blackboard went to the land of the retired blackboards. Remember last year I was lamenting whether I could change my blackboard for a clean, white, pristine whiteboard? During recess our custodian, Ben, came across the playground hauling a BIG box with the new whiteboard in it. "Is that one for Me?" I asked tentatively. "Yes," replied Ben with a huge smile. "Today?" I asked. "Yes," stated Ben, "Right now." "Oh, I don't know if I'm ready for the change!" I moaned. In 30 minutes my choice was determined and I had on my wall the new whiteboard. It will take some getting used to, but it was sure fun writing on it with dustless blue marker. It is smaller that my old chalkboard and so there is a three foot space on the side that Ben said he would paint with blackboard paint if I wanted, so I could have the best of both worlds.

Another Birthday

2008-09-27T16:14:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday was my birthday.I woke up kind of depressed because on my next year birthday I will be 60! So, I only have one more year to prepare for that milestone. You see how this all works? As you get older you have less time to prepare for the times you don't want to have happen! That philosophy could drive anyone to drink! It drove me right to my chocolate box and Dr. Pepper. I eat chocolate all the time but only have DP when I am really stressed!! Anyway, the day turned out amazing! Here is a list of all the things that happened today:
-phone calls and text messages
-flowers
-chocolate
-stuffed bears
-cards
-dinner
-movie
-silly string
-millipedes at school
-visitors at school
-lunch from Pei-Wei (Chinese)
-seeing old friends
-love
-hugs
-money
-letting go of fears

I am so blessed to have a rich and full life, one filled with good health and much love. Thanks to all who expressed "Happy Birthday" wishes to me in what ever form they took. I love you.

Like Father, Like Son

2008-08-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

The Dad

The Son

The Cat In the Bag!

2008-08-24T16:18:00.001-07:00

Well, School has started again and I have a room of 31 "cherubs"! I truly do love my job but some days I want to do what Snickers is doing....hiding her head in a bag and just knowing that she is invisible!!!

Who Is This Guy?

2008-08-24T16:09:00.001-07:00

Who is this hairy guy? Oh, it's Zane. He grew this "beard" on his backpacking trip with the family a couple of weeks ago. I'm not so sure about it, but if that is his sign of "rebellion," than things could be worse. He still has not shaved it off. That's ok. We'll love him anyway.

38 Years

2008-08-03T16:47:00.001-07:00

August 1 was my thirty-eighth wedding anniversary.On our wedding day, Aug.1,1970,in Park City,Utah, we found a skinny aspen tree and carved our names and wedding date into it. In October, 2005, Chuck and I were visiting Matt in Utah and we decided to try and find our tree.It was still in the same place, undisturbed, although a bit fatter (like we all get as we get older). Rachael called me and asked me how I was doing, it being my anniversary and all. I replied that I was very happy this day because of all the wonderful memories I have of my husband and our life together.May you all cherish the memories you have and the ones you are making with your loved ones. You can take those with you when you leave this earth.

Home Again!

2008-07-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

Well, after 8 weeks away from home I finally was able to leave my Dad's home in Albuquerque and come home on July 23, 2008.Things weren't quite the way they were when I left, but what do you expect when 2 twenty-something guys are maintaining the house. At least my cats were ok! I have included some pictures of some interesting things that reflect the "goings on" of this past summer.

Our family cabin in the Jemez Mts. in New Mexico. A real home away from home!

My brother-in-law's llamas on our ranch in Cheyenne, Wyo. They use them to pack in stuff for the guys annual "50 miler" hike into the Wind River Mts.

Matt's boys in front of "BIG Tire" at the Bingham Copper Mine in Utah. G'Pa Andersen was born on the side of this mine in 1925. These tires are on the big dump trucks that are used to haul the rocks they dig out from the side of the mountain. Each tire costs $25,000.

A July hail storm at the Jemez cabin. I was lucky and did not get any dents from the hail. It was marble size.

Missing?

2008-07-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

Have I been missing? No, I've been in New Mexico since school got out. My Dad lives in Albuquerque and I have been here helping him get some of his health problems resolved. It has been interesting and I have appreciated the time he and I have gotten to spend with each other. One thing I like is the weather! It is MUCH cooler than Gilbert in the summer. Plus, there has been some cloudy and rainy days as well. We have been to the movies, out to eat at Wendy's many times, and up to the Jemez Mountains and stayed in my Dad's cabin. I will probably be heading back to Gilbert around the 20th. School starts for me Aug. 1. Adios!!

Memorial Day

2008-05-25T20:32:00.001-07:00

This is my favorite photo of Chuck. I know his outfit doesn't match but he is doing what he loved and he is where he loved to be. He was truly the happiest out in the wild.

A Tribute To Chuck

2008-05-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of the tribute bench erected in Chuck's memory at the hospital in Globe, AZ. While Zane was working with the Globe fire department he noticed a plaque they have on the wall. It too, is a tribute to Chuck.

It reads;

WWCD
What Would Chuck Do?
Remember: Today Is the Only Day You Have

Chuck loved teaching the EMTs and the firemen. They loved him, as well, and respected his opinion on medical matters and tried to emulate his treatment of our fellow man. I was touched by the tribute, as I was unaware of it.

A Perfect Day

2008-05-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

"So what is your idea of a perfect day, Kathleen?" Well, one occurred on Thursday, May 22,2008. It was the last day of school ( no more kids), it was cloudy, and it rained all day. The proof is on the stones. That is my idea of a perfect day in Arizona.

Mother's Day Part 2

2008-05-25T17:05:00.001-07:00

Zane took me out for dinner on Mother's Day. This is what I look like after a large dinner. Ha, ha! I didn't want my kids to spend a lot on me this Mother's day. Money is tight all around. Zane insisted he treat me. And a treat it was: a dinner I didn't have to cook myself, no clean-up, and time spent with my sweet boy.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T14:36:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all! These two flowers, the gardenia (white)and the hibiscus(pink), are considered flowers of royalty. So, all you royal women out there, Mothers or not, enjoy these flowers. Remember who you are. You are daughters of God, therefore Royalty!

Saguaro Cactus Blossom

2008-05-01T18:55:00.000-07:00

Isn't this a pretty flower?
By the way, you pronounce Saguaro: sa-wa-ro

An Amazing Sight

2008-04-29T16:41:00.000-07:00

The Saguaro Cactus is native to Arizona. Its blossom blooms only once a year and for only 24 hours. The blossom is also the Arizona state flower. There are only about 25 Crowned Saguaros in existence. This one is located near Beth and Fred's(Jon's Mom and Step-dad) Scottsdale home.It truly is an amazing sight.

2008-04-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

Backyard Fun in Arizona

2008-04-29T16:28:00.001-07:00

Nathan loved climbing up to the tree house and sliding down the slide as well as going "We-e-e" on the swing.

2008-04-29T16:23:00.000-07:00

2008-04-29T16:15:00.000-07:00

2008-04-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

Nathan loves putting rocks of any kind in my beat up fountain. He spent hours doing that while he and his parents (Rachael and Jon) visited in April.

Sweet 16

2008-03-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

Remember when you turned sixteen? I do! I remember I was so excited to be able to officially date, drive a car, and hang out with my friends until my, now later curfew of, midnight. For my 16th birthday party, I just wanted my friends (only) and I to do something that we hadn't been allowed to until that age. I also remember that I was selfish, self-centered, and thought my folks were "square."

On Friday night, I got to be an honored guest at a Sweet 16 party. I know I am way beyond 16 and I don't even teach 16 year olds. But at one time, I did teach kids who are now turning 16.

So, about three weeks ago, I get a phone call at school from a father of a former student of mine. He said,"We are having a surprise 16th birthday party for Erin on Mar. 28. We are inviting adults who have made an impact in her life and who have helped us mold her into the extraordinary young woman she is today. We would be delighted to have you come. You are one of only two teachers whom she remembers as really learning from and admiring and considers a role model." Needless, to say I readily accepted and showed up to surprise Erin. She was not at all embarrassed to be surrounded by 15 "Old" women and was truly touched that we would come to honor her. Little does she know, that that honor was what I felt as a result of her acknowledgement of me and my efforts as her 4th grade teacher. This experience is why I get up each morning and go to school hoping to make an impact in a 10 year old's life. Not necessarily an academic one, but one in which their character is changed for the better.

I completed a scrapbook page for her book and I included these words of wisdom:

"The chief cause of failure and unhappiness
is trading what we want MOST for
what we want at the moment."

Enchanted

2008-03-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, I woke up this morning so excited. Today was "Enchanted" day. Today was the day I could go to Target and buy the movie,"Enchanted." I didn't want to seem too eager (a 58 year old women pounding on the door at 7AM), so I waited until 9:30AM and hopped into my car and took off. I parked and non-chalantly strolled in pretending to look for paper clips or toothpaste. But, guess what, right by the check out counters, there they were, a whole display case full of "Enchanted." I walked over and said "excuse me" to about six other people standing in front of the case and plucked one from the back of the stack(Rach you know what I mean). I was so excited. I made sure I had the full screen version. I hate letter box. I put it in the seat of my cart and decided that I needed to roam around the store like I really needed something else to buy besides the movie. What would people think if they knew I had just come to Target for ONE thing? So I did buy some paper clips and some card stock paper and then I decided that I could check out. Which I did, and then carefully took the movie back home.
Well, how many times have I watched it since I brought it home? Are you ready?
NONE. It has set on my bed all day. I feel like I do when I have a new book to read. I sometimes hesitate to begin because then it will soon be over. I tried to coerce Zane into watching it with me, but he said, "Mom, I'm not quite ready for it." Whatever that means. Then I asked Eddie if he wanted to watch it with me. He said he was going to Devin's to watch the Sun's game. Then I asked Stuart if he wanted to watch it with me. He said he was going to Buffalo Wild Wings to watch the Sun's game. Well,I guess that leaves me and the cats. Or, maybe I will save it and watch it on Friday night when the "boys" are going to have an "Enchanted" party. At any rate, I am still excited that today, Mar. 18, was "Enchanted Day." Tomorrow is another story. It is "Tax Day."

Easter and Orange Blossoms

2008-03-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Remember: Easter is this Sunday. For those of you who have kids, don't forget to buy the eggs to color, and the dye. Also, remember the Easter Bunny comes and hides the eggs and gives baskets full of sugar.I am just reminding you because your kids will never forgive you if you forget about this part of Easter.

Remember: This Sunday is Easter. For those of you who have kids don't forget to tell them the true story of Easter. Don't forget to read it yourself and remember the real reason why Easter is the most joyous holiday we celebrate. Remember: it because of the resurrection of Christ that we can all live again and see and be with our loved ones who have had the privilege of going on before us.We can also be with Him and our Heavenly Father again.

As I walked around Target today, I was struck by all the cute Easter stuff for sale. Yes, there were the bunnies, chicks, egg dye, jelly beans, the baskets, the grass, and the chocolate. But I was also pleased to see the books about the real meaning of Easter and Bible stories placed next to those about Peter Cottontail.

When I got home, I went out into my backyard and surveyed my orange tree. There on the tips of the branches, nestled in the dark green leaves, were the white orange blossoms. They were still closed, but by the end of this week they will be open and diffusing their heavenly scent into my backyard air and into my nose. What a wonderful smell. The blossoms caused me to contemplate the true meaning of Easter and have joy, peace, hope and thankfulness in my heart for this wonderful season and what it promises to all of us.

May you enjoy both spirits of Easter. May you enjoy the smiles and wide eyes of your kids as they discover their Easter baskets and hunt for eggs. Finally, may you all smile and have your walks uplifted in the knowledge of the true reason for this season!

2008-03-03T18:23:00.000-08:00

Matt and I at Chuck's grave in Wyoming.

2008-03-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

A Quick Trip

2008-03-03T17:37:00.000-08:00

Well, last week was one of those you would call a whirlwind week. I received notice on Tuesday that I would need to appear as a witness in a court case in Cheyenne, Wy. on Friday. Stress!!!! Not only was it short notice but now I had to develop and write up lesson plans for a sub. Unless you have ever taught elementary school you can't appreciate the time and energy it takes to write a script for a sub to be you for the day. The whole day is planned out in 15 or 30 minute increments with papers pulled and pages assigned and textbooks bookmarked for the sub to use. In a fourth grade classroom the sub needs to know if she/he has crosswalk duty, recess duty, what to do at lunch, pages to be taught, any games to be played, incentives and management rules (bathroom, discipline etc.)It goes on and on. Anyway, I alerted my school secretary that I would need a sub for Fri.and so she made arrangments for that. Then on Wed. morning I got word that I would be needed in WY on Thurs. as well as Fri. STRESS!!! Now I had to create plans for Thurs. Luckily, I didn't have to make the airline reservations. The US Government did that. They say that I got to fly for free, but you and I know that that is where part of our tax dollars goes.I did fly Frontier and it was a nice airline. The seats were comfortable and there were little TV screens on the back of the seat in front of you. For $5 I could watch cable TV and for $8 I could have watched a movie. First run no less! To top the trip off I rode a puddle jumper plane to Cheyenne from Denver and didn't have to hassle renting a car and driving it to Chey.
Being a witness is a scary thing. Thank goodness there was a pitcher of water and cups by the witness stand.(The chair was comfy.)My mouth got so dry I could hardly talk. It is also very hard to remember what you have just said. Thank goodness the court reporter is sitting directly in front of you and you can have your previous words read back. Man, she writes down everything: coughs, sneezes, and yes, the judge did fall asleep a few times.
While there, Matt and I got to visit Chuck's grave. Neither he nor I had seen the headstone after it was placed on his grave. That happened last summer and neither one of us could be there for that occasion.
Lastly, in spite of the stress I had a wonderful reunion with many nieces and nephews whom I hadn't seen in quite a few years. We also went out to eat at a place called "Twin Dragon". It has to have the best Chinese food on the planet. The trip was worth it to just be able to go there and eat. The company of 18 members of the family helped too.

Cat Fight

2008-02-17T14:46:00.000-08:00

Well, here are my two cats, Madison(no tail) and Snickers (calico), fighting over who gets to drink from the faucet first. This ritual happens every morning about 5:45 AM as I am getting ready to go to school. Now, I am not one of those old ladies who dotes on her animals and treats them as children, but I do turn on the faucet for them. The nice thing about the whole situation is that I have two sinks, so I just turn on the other one and then let the cats decide who gets to move.Remember, I am not one to dote on her cats, but I do let them take over my bed at night and turn my king size bed into a single size for me. They have the rest. Now remember, I am not one to dote on my cats, but when Snickers wants to go out at 2:20AM, I get up and let her out. Then at 3:15, when she wants back in, I get up and let her back in. No, No! You can't call me controlled by my cats!!! I wonder why I put their special canned cat food on separate plates for them each morning or buy them special evaproated milk for them to drink? Yikes! The more I reveal the more I do sound like one of those old ladies who spoils her pets.Well, at least I don't have four or five of them like others I know. That's a comforting thought, don't you think?

In With the New and Out With the Old

2008-02-03T10:26:00.000-08:00

In my classroom I have one white board and one real blackboard. For the last 10 years I have held on to that blackboard because of what it represents. To me, a school teacher has a blackboard. I never felt I could be a very good teacher if I didn't have the chalkboard to write on. When I was a little girl I always played school. Of course, I had to be the teacher. My parents bought me a blackboard and chalk to use in my pretend classroom.

I am one of only two teachers at Burk who still has a blackboard. So the princpal asked me the other day if I wanted to replace it with a new white board. I told him I had to think about it. The only positive reason to keep it is for the sentimental value. I took a very hard look at that board from a student's persepective. One, you can't read what is written on the blackboard as well as you can on the whiteboard. Two, it way more fun to write on the whiteboard than on the chalkboard. Now from my point of view. One, I am allergic to chalk and so I get to sneezing from the dust. Two, I won't need to have my overhead screen because I can use the white board for that. Three, the white board is smaller than the chalkboard and I will gain some wall space. Four, a white board is much easier to keep clean. No chalk dust.

So, I went back to the principal and told him I would venture into the 21st century and replace the old blackboard with a new white board. Now, I am debating on whether I am going to have to take some days off for grieving when the change is made.

An Address Book?

2008-02-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

This week I had a phone call from one of my older cousins who lives in Utah. Dolores is my Aunt Louva's daughter. (my mother's side) She is quite a bit older than I am and I don't remember when the last time was that I saw her. I think it was when I was six or so and had the measles while on vacation visiting her family in Toole,UT. Anyway, she said she was wondering about my Dad and how he was doing. She hadn't heard from him in two Christmases and was concerned. She said she was looking through her address book and came across my name and address. She googled me and got the phone number etc. We had a nice visit and I told her that my Dad was still living in Albuquerque but his short term memory was going, and so he probably had forgotten to send any Xmas cards at all. After our talk, I got to thinking about the status of my family members' addresses. They are on post- its scattered through out the house, or I have torn them off envelopes and they are in a little wooden basket by my desk, or some are on a list in my desk drawer. Bottom line is: they are not in any organized format. So one of my New Year resolutions is to take all those post-its, ripped envelopes, and the list, and compile it into a new address book. I have to admit, going to buy a new book will be fun. Not only do I get a high going into book stores, but I get high going into office supply stores as well. Go figure. I want someone to check on me at a later date to see if I have accomplished this task. If I know I will be accountable to someone, the job will most likely get done!

Shallow and Deep

2008-01-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

Today I will write about some very deep thoughts and then some extremely shallow ones. First, the deep.

We had Stake Conference today. Usually I just go to conference out of obligation and/or fear of being struck by lightning. Today was no different. I armed myself with my purse, scriptures, and the new Ensign. All of these I could use if the speakers were boring or their talks were not relevant to me. I sat down in the back (the back meaning; deep in the bowels of the cultural hall). I always sit on an end seat, probably so I can get up and go get a drink or use the restroom and not have to climb over a bunch of legs or kids' toys on the floor. So I sat down and there were about five chairs between myself and the next person. I sat there for a few minutes enjoying being by myself, when I felt a tap on my shoulder and looked up. Standing there was one of my neighbors He is about 65 years old. He asked me if he could sit next to me. I said ok. When he sat down, I asked him where his wife was, and he said she was home sick. Now, I am definitely not in the market for a new companion and so when he sat there and then NO one else came to sit beside him, I panicked. Will strangers think we are together? Will friends think he is hitting on me, or vice versa? Will busybodies run and tell his wife we were together? Will I be receiving a phone call from the Bishop when I get home, wanting to "talk" to me? Will there be a Church Court? How will I explain my excommuniction to my kids? Will I ever see Chuck again? Will we be in different kingdoms? Is it really hot down there?
I'm sure my breathing was labored and my eyes were dilating! Is this what a panic attack is like?

Then the Stake Choir began the opening song, and I woke up! (fooled you, didn't I? ha, ha)

The conference was really wonderful. First of all, one of the speakers was a woman in the Stake YW presidency and a convert. I have had three of her eight kids in my classroom. A few years ago, our stake president challenged each family to write a Family Proclamation. She spoke about how profound her family's was, and how writing it had brought them together and how it had showed love for each other. I started thinking about our family proclamation and what a wonderful experience it was to work together to decide on just what our family stood for and what our eternal goals were. I would like to share it with you.

THE FRENTHEWAY FAMILY PROCLAMATION 1998

Friendly, faithful, followers of Jesus Christ

Repentant, righteous, always remembering Him.

Excellent examples of His love, as we

Nurture one another.

Teachable, thoughtful, thankful for one another.

Humble, helpful, honest, and happy.

Eternally goal seeking.

Willing, warm workers

Accepting, accountable and active,

Yearning for and yielding to the Spirit of God.

I hadn't read it in a long time and it seemed a good thing to review at the beginning of this new year. Another profound thought she presented came from a talk by Dallin Oaks. He said: " At the final judgment, it's not about what we've done in life, but it's about what we've become. Have we become more like the Savior?"

Each and every day, I think back about that day and try to come up with

things that I am grateful for. That thought is on my list for today.

Now for the shallow. I have had a really long three day weekend and I was looking forward to that. It was MLK holiday. But, I have literally wasted the time. I went to get my nails done, went to Target, went to a movie (Atonement- don't spend money on it), bought four tacos at Jack in the Box (they are very greasy and good), watched Pride and Prejudice (1939) on TV, read the People magazine, surfed the Web, watched more TV, slept in until 7AM, ate tons of chocolate, bought a Vanilla Creme at Starbucks (thanks, Rach, for getting me hooked on those), fretted about money and taxes and why my car insurance is so high, killed some weeds in the front yard, transferred photos from my camera into my computer, checked my e-mail 15 times, read the newspaper, washed dishes using the dishwasher, and just enjoyed myself being lazy and doing irresponsible things. I was definitely throwing Chuck's adage about life out the window. You know:" Remember, today is the only day you have." But, what a theraputic and freeing weekend it has been. I will put this frivolity on my list of things to be grateful for, too.

2008-01-13T14:10:00.000-08:00

Hoping to fill these boots!

Payday and It's Gone

2008-01-13T13:27:00.000-08:00

Well, this was the first week back to school after the Christmas (yes, I'm going to say it) break. My students were very well behaved until Friday. Thank goodness for the weekend.
I got paid on Friday and signed my income over to the air-conditioning guys who just replaced my 15 year old unit. The job took them all week, but I think they did a great job. It seems like each month something comes along which is very expensive and just wrecks the 'ole monthly budget. Now I need to replace my garbage disposal. That may have to wait until next month. I have been trying very hard to not use my credit cards except for travel. It is a personal challenge and so far, two weeks into the new year, I have been doing great.
Many of you know how much I love the movies. In fact, years ago, family members would call me up to give them a movie review. That stopped when Rachael got involved with Sundance and we all know she loves the movies just as much as I. Wonder where that came from? Anyway, here are my movie reviews for this year.

National Treasure- very entertaining, no bad language, no sex, some kissing, a lot of action

The Debaters-great acting, some disturbing lynch scenes, great dialogue, an underdog movie, happy ending, some sex, no bad lang., true story

P.S. I Love You-funny, some sex, bring Kleenex, happy ending, no bad lang. , a chick flick

Juno-funny, great dialogue, great acting, some sex, language is teen age slang and may be offensive if you have forgotten what it was like to be 16 and hormonal, happy ending, probably one of the best I've seen this year (even Zane and Jonathon liked it)

Enchanted- part fairy tale, great music, some kissing, a love story, fun, makes you want to sing and dance, kids will like it

No, I haven't seen Alvin and the Chipmunks. Some one else will have to go and review that one.

I haven't updated you on the Zane man. This week he starts his EMT training. His goal is become a firefighter :) I understand the process is hard in order to get accepted into the fire academy. But, it seems like everyone I talk to has a family member or friend who is doing this job and can help Zane out. He did very well last semester at Chandler-Gilbert Community College. This week he had to be a squeaky wheel and bug the Red Cross to get his CPR card. Apparently, the fax that came through to them didn't print his name out clearly and they just ignored it, instead of trying to find out who it was so they could submit his card to the proper school authorities. He had to drive all the way into north Phoenix (it's like going to Ft. Collins from Cheyenne) to get the card and then had deliver it to the school. But, all is well and he is set to start on Tues.He doesn't live here with me anymore. He lives with a friend not to far away and I see him quite a bit. He gets all of his mail here, does his laundry, and if he wants some food other than Top Ramen or crackers and cheese, he comes here. He is trying to date as many different girls as he can, and so, on Sunday he attends a different singles ward in hope of meeting someone new. When we were in Heber he even went to the singles ward there. Nothing shy about that boy. He has been such a help and support to me. Thanks Zane!

2008-01-06T13:37:00.000-08:00

Grandpa Andersen (my Dad) and Buffy

Albuquerque, NM 2008

2008-01-06T13:34:00.000-08:00

Grandma and all the Frentheway Crew!!

Left to right: Kreed, Riggs, Beau, Dawson, Ryker

2008-01-06T13:32:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Riggs 2007

2008-01-06T13:29:00.000-08:00

Kreed, Dawson, Ryker and Beau getting along playing some "monkey in a tree" game on a snowy afternoon.

2008-01-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

No sibling rivalry here. Rachael and Zane.

2008-01-06T13:24:00.000-08:00

It's Ready!!

2008-01-06T13:21:00.000-08:00

Perfect German Pancake!!

Christmas 2007 and I'm Back

2008-01-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

Well, I got to experience all kinds of winter weather while I was gone. Rain in Kentucky, snow in Utah, and cloudy and windy in New Mexico. I arrived home late on Sat., Jan. 5. and received the best Christmas surprise ever when I stepped into my home. Zane, Stuart, and Eddie (two are my boarders) took down my Christmas tree and outside lights for me. I hate that job. I was very happy. And the house was neat and clean. ( I wonder how long they had to work to get it that way for me :) I finished taking down the rest of the decorations today. Now it is back to school and 4th graders tomorrow.
I had such a wonderful time at every one's homes. It was fun helping Rachael prepare her very first turkey dinner and helping to play Santa with Jon and Rachael. At Matt and Melissa's, the boys were so good and well behaved. I had forgotten how long it took to get a three year old dressed so he could go out and play in the snow. My goodness! I got to ring in the New Year just the way I liked, lying in my bed reading a great book. By the way, that is my favorite pastime ever. In fact, I brought along a separate suitcase just for my reading material. I had a variety though. Some books were romance novels, mystery books, finance books, political reading, church books and magazine, and a couple of trashy, celebrity magazines. I read all the magazines and three novels, and one half of each of two other books. The airlines were very cooperative also. My bags arrived at each destination safely.
Did I make New Year resolutions? Yes and no. In my head I am resolving to do some of the same things I resolve to do each day: pray, read the scriptures, and try to get to the temple bi-monthly. I haven't written down the usual "go on and stick to a diet" resolution yet. I really have to gear myself up for that one. I am such a stress and emotional eater. I would not do a good job at Overeaters Anonymous! I think the best stategy is to tackle each day as it comes along. I wake up each day, put my shoes on, and go do what the day requires of me. I do find joy and happiness each day. I am alone but not lonely. I have my family and the Gospel to fill my life. How blessed I am. Maybe, instead of making resolutions, one should just make a list of all the blessings and positive things one received the previous year. In other words, a gratitude journal. Changing the focus a bit results in a different outlook on life.
Enjoy the pictures!!! Happy New Year 2008!!!

2007-12-28T13:36:00.000-08:00

Nathan and Grandma

Dec. 27, 2007

A Day In Between

2007-12-28T13:21:00.001-08:00

Well, Zane and I had a great time visiting Rachael and her family in Kentucky. No snow, but the temps made it really feel like December and not June. We had fun going to Jon's grandmother home for Christmas Eve dinner and present opening. Rachael cooked her first turkey as well as all the trimmings for our Christmas Day dinner. We received just as much as we needed and it was not a day of excess. The last thing anyone of us needs is more "stuff." We flew home to AZ yesterday and I have been utilizing this day in between trips to clean, shop for books using my gift card, and take down decorations. Tomorrow we are off again to visit Utah and Matt and family. Zane and Matt already have a snowboarding excursion planned for Park City. As odd as it seems, Matt is not a good snowboarder. That is strange because you all must remember the huge halfpipe he and Chuck built in our "backyard" in Cheyenne. He loved (lived) to skateboard. Anyway, while they are playing in the snow I will go to their house and play with the boys. This little trip will take us until Jan. 2. Then Zane will come back to Gilbert and I will go visit my Dad and brother in Albuquerque. I hope you all had as wonderful family filled Christmas as I did. Happy New Year!

Random Pics

2007-12-26T18:40:00.000-08:00

Frentheway Family 2004

Rachael, Jonathon, and Nathan 2007

Matt, Melissa, Kreed, Dawson, Ryker, Beau, and Riggs 2007

Chuck and Kathy 2002

Zane and Kathy 2007

Past and Present

2007-12-26T18:22:00.000-08:00

The day Chuck and I were married, 1970, we walked into the woods around Park City, Utah, and carved our names and wedding date into a skinny aspen tree. Thirty-five years later, 2005, we again walked into those same woods and found our tree. Thank you, God, for that wonderful last anniversary with my husband.

The Story In the Stone

2007-12-26T17:16:00.000-08:00

The story of Chuck's headstone began in the summer of 2005. Chuck and the boys were on their annual "50 Miler" into the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming. Maybe while hiking, or fishing, or sitting around the campfire, Chuck mentioned that when he died he didn't want some manufactured, "one size fits all" headstone. He wanted just some rock from the mountains with his name written on it in magic marker and then plopped on his grave. Nothing fancy, ostentatious, or loud. The only loud thing he liked was the color of his shirts. He really never wanted to call attention to himself. Laughingly, the boys agreed to his wishes, knowing all along that he would probably outlive them.
In December of 2005, Chuck got to spend Christmas with Christ. His lifelong goal of being with the Savior was granted. As his loved ones grieved, funeralized, and buried his body, one question remained unanswered. What should Chuck's headstone look like? Where will it be purchased from and how much will it cost? The answer came one day from either Matt or Zane, reminding us all of their Dad's previous summer wish. The quest for the 2006 "50 Miler" was to find and bring out of the mountains Chuck's headstone. So Uncle John brought along his horse trailer for the horses and for the purpose of having a way to haul out Uncle Chuckie's headstone. The perfect stone was found on the last day just as they were walking out of the green meadow that flanked the parking lot. There it sat just glowing as if to say, "Here I am. Choose me!" So, with the super human strength of 4 or 5 men, the heavy granite stone was loving put into the back of the horse trailer and hauled to the ranch. Patiently, it sat and waited behind the farm house shed through all that cold winter and windy spring until the summer of 2007.
I decided that the summer of 2007 would be my Road Trip Summer. I drove to see everyone, within reason. ( I did fly to see Rachael in Kentucky). While in Heber, Utah, I knew this was the time to take care of Chuck's headstone. So I called Tri-State Memorial in Cheyenne. The owner knew the Frentheway family and he said he could engrave the stone. Furthermore, he said he would even go out to the ranch and bring it in to his shop , do the work, and then bring it back out and set it for us. We set up the time for the work to be done by so that when I drove to Cheyenne, I would be able to be there when the stone was set. However, Tri-State had a death in their family which prevented them from finishing the work when I was there. Reluctantly, I wrapped up my Cheyenne visit and went home to Arizona. I felt really negligent and unsettled when I flew to Rachael's in July. I felt that I had let Chuck down and that everyone was judging me because I still hadn't gotten a headstone for Chuck. You know, that sick Al-Anon thinking. I expressed these feelings to Rachael and she reminded me of our family philosophy: "Things always happen for a reason, and good things always come from seemingly bad events." I had to exercise some faith here, and accept the fact that the timing for the placing of the stone was not in my hands. While at Rachael's, I received an e-mail from Tri-State informing me that they could set the stone on July 19. I knew I couldn't be there but Rachael could!!! Here is where the Lord's hand came into play. Unknown to me, Rachael had made plans to visit her friend, Val, in Denver on July 19th. She would arrive in Denver early enough for her and Val to drive to Cheyenne and be there to set her Dad's headstone. The miracle of all this is that each one of my children had a significant part in procuring and placing the memorial on their Dad's grave. What I learned is this whole dying and honoring our loved ones business is not just about me, the widow, doing it all, but about allowing my children to have a significant and poignant part in the process, as well. Also by the miracle of modern communications, Rachael was able to let me listen as Uncle Mike dedicated the headstone and she also sent me Pix messages as well. The Lord does work in mysterious ways and He works in all our lives to bring to pass the best opportunities for us to grow closer to Him. We just have to allow Him to help us and accept His Plan. I know that He lives and that Chuck is with Heavenly Father and Christ doing the work he lived to die for.

In the Beginning

2007-12-26T16:41:00.000-08:00

In the beginning, the written word was chipped into hieroglyphics, then painted on handwritten scrolls on papyrus, type set in the Guttenburg Bible, printed in rag paper books, air mailed, e-mailed, and now blogged on the Internet. The written word has always been a source of enjoyment and knowledge for me. I enter a bookstore and get a physical high. I open a brand new book or magazine and become someone else or transported to another place. Then the world of blogging hit my desktop. I was enthralled. I checked the blogspots daily to see and read something new. I felt connected to loved ones more than an e-mail or snail mail letter could ever do. I really enjoyed reading the blogs from my daughter and some of my nieces. So, I thought to myself , that if the "younger " kids can understand and manage this form of journaling, I can too. After all, I have a master's degree in education, 36 years of parenting and 35+ years of raising a husband. In all honesty, this blogging should be a piece of cake! Let's hope so.

Actually, I would like to dedicate this blog spot to my late husband and eternal companion, Chuck Frentheway. He would have loved and embraced this form of keeping a journal. I always admired him for his diligence in writing in his paper journal on a daily basis for 30 years. He was always on the look out for an electronic way to record his thoughts, testimony, and daily events. Now, however, he is using the heavenly version of keeping a daily record. I will just have to wait to read it until I am with him again.

I won't promise that this spot will be updated on a daily basis, but I will promise that it will be updated. I am going to start out by posting a picture of Chuck's headstone. It is beautiful and he loves it so. I post it because the story of how it came to be is a story of faith, love, and accepting the Lord's timing of events and knowing that everything happens for a reason.