Richly Blessed

2011-09-22T19:46:00.001-07:00

A Scandinavian Sonnet

Off o’er the Atlantic the ‘sibs’ were aglow,
Rob and Liz, Jan and Brent, Marg (but not Jim and Jo)!
A timely planned outing to ‘Norway or bust’,
Was the plan, and a ‘plan’ for this group is a must!

At home Jim and Jo into action they sprang,
So excited they were to meet up with their ‘gang’!
Notions and lotions and vitamins packed,
They were off with every known trip artifact!

Arriving in Oslo, Jim and Jo Rich,
Were to meet with their ‘clan’, but this plan had a glitch!
One last tour in the city was simply a must,
But the tour ended badly - a car robbery bust!

The Pattersons now without passport or ‘purse’
Saturday too, so it all just got worse!
No way to board the ship was their fate,
Rob and Liz in Oslo, would just have to wait!

So sad were the others, but onward they cruised,
Grand staterooms and food to keep all quite amused!
First stop Copenhagen, a beautiful sight,
A walk into town by dawns early light!

Now, while on the trip, Janette had been ill,
With a darn old flu bug that nagged at her still!
But drugs brought by Jo from the U.S. took hold,
And in a short time they killed that old cold!

Disembarking the ‘Mermaid’ sat perched on the coast,
‘Little’ was right, after history’s boast!
Saw Hans Christian Andersons house by the water,
Then on a boat tour, we thought that we aught-er!

A walk thru the city we spotted a ‘bike
It had ‘several’ seats in the ‘round’, we were psyched!
‘All’ hopped on board with a driver quite funny,
Down the street we all rode, it was well worth the money!

Then to Tivoli Gardens, the center of town,
It was Sunday and busy with crowds all around!
Weathered by years, decidedly so,
So we dined, Danish style, then proceeded to go!

Down Stoeget Street for shopping some flew,
Others took off for castles to view!
Bought a Royal Copenhagen trinket to tote,
More souvenirs then back to the boat!

Monday at sea exploring and resting,
Playing trivia games and a lot of ‘food testing’!
Excited to rendezvous with our ‘two’
Who’d been stuck back in Norway trying to get thru!

Riga, Latvia was where we would meet,
We walked from the pier and there on the street…
Were our long lost companions, so happy were we,
Finally together, the whole family!

Of course Rob and Liz were both in their glory,
With a ‘tale’ to tell, their lost passport story!
Miracles happen, prayers make things right,
‘Course a ‘BYU’ intern didn’t hurt in their plight!

The adventure continued in Riga the city,
Buildings like castles, fairytale pretty!
A beautiful day, some ‘amber’ to buy,
Back to the ship ‘let’s eat’ was the cry!

Next day at sea we played games to unwind,
Jungle Speed, Pit, yes the relaxing (?) kind!
More great entertainment when evening rolled ‘round,
Then into our cabins to sleep safe and sound!

Thursday dawned in St. Petersburg’s port,
So much to do in one day, just too short!
Our able guide ‘Tatiana’ was ready,
To spout Russian history cool, calm and steady!

To “Catherine’s Palace’ we ventured by van,
Scenery spectacular as our tour guide began…
Explaining the history with details complete,
The ‘Amber room’, truly an awesome treat!

Another canal tour with cool sites to view,
Winter Palace, the Hermitage, to name just a few
Then a nice hotel lunch, the ‘business buffet’
Had us ready to finish this fabulous day!

Off to the Hermitage, history insightful,
Impressionist paintings, unique and delightful!
Russian performers for the evening cruise shows,
Then a midnight buffet brought the day to a close!

Helsinki Finland our first day of ‘rain’,
O’er beautiful landscapes we traveled again!
To Parvoo, an old fishing village we stopped,
For hot tea and cake and a ‘chocolate shop’!

Last night on the boat the sunset was splendid,
In fact it seemed that it never quite ended!
We lingered up deck-top as long as we could,
Then went to pack up as we knew we all should!

Stockholm Sweden, our last port of call,
For the Riches and Pattersons, not long at all!
Marg and the Sonnenbergs planned to stay on,
A few more days of the trip to pro-long!

From Stockholm to Amsterdam flying we went,
Then into New York, we were all pretty ‘spent’!
A wonderful trip to a beautiful land,
Memories to cherish, company grand!

The stragglers will have to end this last line,
I’ve not got their ‘details’, but surely they’ll ‘shine’!
So add what you will and I’ll try not to edit,
Giving you all you’re rightly earned credit!

Trips are….. ‘So Happy Together’
JPR

SCANDINAVIAN CRUISE with the SIBS - JULY 2011

2011-07-31T07:31:00.000-07:00

Land of the Midnight Sun!

'Wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen!

2011-07-31T07:21:00.000-07:00

Riga, Latvia (Rob and Liz join us on the cruise)

2011-07-31T07:09:00.000-07:00

Parvoo, Finland (North of Helsinki)

2011-07-31T07:03:00.000-07:00

St. Petersburg Russia

2011-07-31T06:57:00.000-07:00

TWO in the NEWS!

2011-07-31T06:39:00.000-07:00

Chance Ballsteadt Rich
Ben and Whitney's darling
May 5th, 2011

2011-07-31T06:33:00.000-07:00

Amelia Marie Rich - Pat and Anna's darling
June 10th, 2011

GREAT TRIP TO SEE BOB AND SARA IN PITTSBURGH

2011-04-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful trip to Pittsburgh - Washington D.C. in March! Bob and Sara gave up their nice bed for 'ol Jim and me and we just loved seeing their little abode and the 'haunts' around Pittsburgh. We 'car toured' (it was raining) around the University of Pittsburgh where Bob is getting his Masters of Prosthetics degree, ate pizza made with french fries, enjoyed some of Sara's home cooking then made a quick decision to head 'south' to D.C. for a couple of days. The weather was a bit better there and we were able to see all the famous monuments in the National Mall, the White House and tour some of the Smithsonian Museums. Our Marriott for a couple of nights proved to be a fun place to play games and even dip in the hot tub...feels good in cool March.
Bob and Sara were perfect hosts and the highlight, of course, was being able to play with our ADORABLE Duncan! He turned one on February 10th and is walking and chattering and dancing up the cutest toddler storm. What a 'charmer'!
It was so great to be able to share a few days with all of them and take home some wonderful memories!

Pittsburgh and Washington D.C. - March 2011

2011-04-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

The PITTSBURGH Riches

2011-04-18T15:06:00.000-07:00

KONA WITH LINDSAYS AND ELDREDGES - JANUARY 2011

2011-03-08T18:48:00.000-08:00

FRIENDS, FUN IN THE SUN

, FABULOUS TIME

BIG ISLAND adventure, January 2011

2011-02-17T07:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas Adam 'The night before the night before'!

2011-02-17T05:57:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS 2010

2011-02-17T05:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Hollidays check out our sweet moves!

2010-12-25T08:55:00.000-08:00

A Tale of Italy 2010

2010-11-08T18:17:00.000-08:00

Viva Italia

Around the first month of two thousand and ten,

A St. George outing created a yen..

To ‘trip off’ to

Italy

, land of romance,

The seed had been planted, did it have a chance?

Jim, feeling not quite in traveling form,

Resisted the idea, but he would soon warm,

So winter turned spring and with Lindsay’s on board,

The planning began and the trip was assured!

‘Bishop’ Bruce worked hard to determine the route,

Joanne figured hotels with ‘Amex’ clout!

Trains, planes (no autos) worked into the plan,

Then with ‘Rick Steves’ uploaded the journey began!

Direct flight to

France

on September one/nine,

Carry-on’s loaded we four feeling ‘fine’!

Ten hours later, safe landing for us,

Bruce and Shari to Venice, Jim and Jo ‘ahh Paris’!

Airport shuttled right onto the Champs Elisee‘

Dragging luggage and looking for our ‘place to stay’!

Jim’s French was quite helpful, if not ‘apropos’,

To get us around and to quite delight Jo!

Starving we soon dined at chic ‘Chez Andre’.

Then the Eiffel Tower was just minutes away!

Up, up to a view of the city of love,

Miles of Paris were sited above!

Then quick to the Bateau Mooches for a ride,

Down the Seine, with a tour group of Chinese beside!

Dusk turned to dark passing sites long admired,

Loved it all (with full moon) even though…oh so tired!

Slumber at the Francois Primier, ooh la la,

The back of our eye lids was all that we saw,

‘Till early to rise and brunch buffet delight,

We were off to the airport to catch our next flight!

Fourty five minutes to sweet

Switzerland

The rain ride to Lausanne was really quite grand!

Hotel Angleterra on Geneva’s blue lake,

Ice cream on the pier then to bed in a shake!

Up early next morning and off on the train,

Headed to

Italy

(are we insane?)

No, just way excited to join with our peers,

Bruce and Shari, ‘we’re comin’ - Cinque Terre, cheers!

The email said only eight minutes up stairs,

To our room with a ‘view’, but right then, hey who cares!

Up, up and up climbing Verazza’s grand peak,

Would we get there before the end of the week?

Our room built right into the side of the hill,

But the view of the village and ocean, a thrill?

A good laugh was had as we dined near the sand,

Company charming, scenery grand!

Thursday by now and we’re off on our hike,

In between village landscapes, a wondrous sight!

On the lovers hike over Via d’ la more

Our sore feet and sunburns would soon tell our story!

Back to Vernazza to take a cool dip,

Into the harbor to finish our trip!

Boat ride to Monterossa, food a bit pricy,

But couldn’t have ended a great day more nice-y!

Florence on Friday was next on our plan,

The train ride a breeze as we four caravanned!

Stepped out of the station to sheer ambiance,

Transporting us back to the Renaissance!

Right in our bath the D’Omo appeared,

More awesome it loomed as the busy crowd cleared!

Lindsays went left, Riches went right,

And soon our hotels were clearly in sight!

Hotel Brunelleschi did not disappoint,

As ‘four stars’ go, a pretty nice joint!

But happy travelers are busy ones too,

So we dropped off our bags and joined up with our crew!

The Uffizi museum was first on our list,

Alter tops, paintings, well you get the jist!

Beautiful view of the river Arno,

A scene from above to the city below!

Musicians and mimes could be seen here and there,

Adding their artistic charm with such flair!

But more beauty even to add to this show,

Was seen as we crossed the bridge, Ponti Vechio!

There on the opposite side of the city

A view putting to shame that old trite word, ‘pretty’!

Up on a hill near the old city wall,

Breathtaking Florence was viewed over all!

From here we could sense earth’s beauty thru time,

Created with Gods own palate divine!

Then humanity entered this wondrous scheme,

Adding their talents to His grand earthly theme!

All right now, so much for the flowery prose,

Let’s talk about food, that’s how this next part goes!

Have I mentioned ‘gelato’ and ‘pasta’ galore

Was our everyday menu, “could we please have more”?

Speaking of ‘fetishes’ we had quite a-lot-o,

Of that smooth classic favorite, Italian gelato!

Even Rich Steves had a favorite place,

Not yet, that’s in Rome, our next traveling place!

Our waiter at restaurant ‘Lion’ was real swell,

Noticed we were from Utah, (‘no wine!?’), he could tell!

Had worked for Bill Marriott back in the states,

Brought tasty delights to garnish our plates!

Sleep was a dream on our soft hotel sheets,

Then up the next morning to more arty treats,

The Accademia and ‘David’ a highlight for all,

Michaelangelo’s marvel, amazingly tall!

Shopping on street ‘Calazone’ ( not sure),

Suddenly things are beginning to blur,

Morano glass jewelry for Shari and I

Trying on diamonds (wow) hey girls, nice try!

Met the boys at our table, the two were a ‘hoot’,

Thought we ditched them, how could we, when they had the lute!

Laughs and good food to complete our short stay,

In beautiful Florence, ‘long

Italy

’s way

Up Sunday morning, nice breakfast to eat,

Then a taxi to church made our Sabbath complete!

Be it ever so humble, wherever you ‘roam’,

The church in the world makes you feel right at home!

Speaking of ‘Rome’, we hustled, well sort of,

To the train bound for ‘Roma’, the city of LOVE!

Just off the platform and out on the street,

Loomed the famed Coliseum, a marvel, a treat!

Was it days without drugs or a lash in her eye,

Or sheer ‘overwhelm-ment’ that made Shari cry?

There we stood awestruck by ancient Rome’s wall,

Amazingly beautiful for one, for all!

Rolling our suitcases not far away,

To the Hotel Nerva, our home for this stay

Asked where a good place for pizza would be,

Unpacked and took off, so much more left to see!

Rick Steves on our ipods our night walk began,

All this a part of our big three day plan!

Italians and tourists out walking the night,

Made the atmosphere thrilling, a wondrous sight!

A marvel, the Pantheon right there – for real,

And the Fountain Treve, a long awaited thrill!

Jim gave advice as photos were shot,

Me thinks those Italian girls thought he was ‘hot’!

We noticed Bruce keeping a quick lively pace,

Come to know he was looking for ‘Rick’s’ favorite place!

To have, yup you guessed it, gelato delight,

One scoop or two, big decision all right!

Next day to old Rome’s magnificent places,

The Coliseum and Forum with such well kept traces,

Of Romans and ruins and Christian reform,

Talk about these tours not being your ‘norm’!

Jim had called Luke, our nephew from home,

And planned to meet up at McDonalds, (in Rome?)

A bit late, we worried, had we missed our boy,

Then two white shirts appeared and great was our joy!

How wondrous to know that the Lords work goes on,

In this land where the Romans jut had it…all wrong!

That the Gospel restored had come to this place,

With hard work and surely God’s infinite grace!

A trip to the Pantheon by light of day,

Then dinner at Cul’d Sac restaurante!

Luke started in with questions of kin,

Then the day ended sweetly (gelato), for all a win-win!

Last day in Rome and it didn’t prove dull,

St. Peter’s Basilica, Pieta’s and all!

The Vatican Museum and Chapel ‘Sistine’,

Right out of a Dan Brown novel, this scene!

Oblisque’s, paintings and frescos galore,

Halls and ceilings and then halls some more!

Romanesque busts in plaster to view,

Many who looked like some people we knew!

With our tired feet and well worn out shoes,

We stopped at the souvenir shop to peruse!

Dined at a quaint little street-side café,

A find way to end a wonderful stay!

Goodbye to our company, travel stuff one,

Next day off to Paris before break of dawn!

The airport Marriott, our room for the night,

Then bus ride to Paris to more tourist sites!

Quick paced our steps to the Musee ‘d Orsay,

Impressionist paintings on ground floor display!

And we were ‘impressed’ yes, that’s for darn sure,

Then to Notre Dame to end our day tour!

Stained glass windows of Chapel St. Chappell,

Artistic marvels with stories to tell!

But alas we were weary and needed some food,

And a Champs Elysee café now set a fine mood!

Back to the Marriott tired and fulfilled,

Cheesecake to share and milk glasses chilled!

We settled right down on our mattress of down,

And quiet enfolded we two, all around!

The story ends here, well at least the FUN part,

‘Cause the airport was crazier than at our start!

But then what to our wondering ears should we hear,

But an ‘ooh ooh ooh ooh’, from the Lindsays’ now near!

Back together again, what a great way to end,

Trip made complete ‘cause we shared with our friends!

‘VIVA ITALIA’, might sounda a bit trite,

But THAT it was NOT, now to all a ‘good night’!

END

jpr

ITALYSeptember 2010

2010-11-08T15:53:00.000-08:00

PARIS:

We began at the Arc D'Triumph - our first view of Paris!

Jim's french came in handy looking for our room for the night!

Our room at the Francois Primier was ****four star!

The Eiffel Tower - no disappointment!

2010-11-08T15:41:00.000-08:00

Buffet breakfast at the Francois Primier

Just had to take a picture....caviar and all!

The Eiffel Tower in the glow of Paris night light!

Starting our Seine River boat trip....he full moon in the background....WOW!

2010-11-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

Notre Dame!

Museum Musse D'Orse (Monet, Dega....the impressionist artists)

The shop windows in Paris are artistic wonders!

Alexander the Great - on our family tree!

2010-11-08T15:33:00.000-08:00

CINQUE TERRA
This was literally our view from our room.... (the cover of the Rick Steves travel CD)

On our balcony with....the VIEW!

Once we made the trip up - it was funny - and so worth it!

Probably our favorite room - carved right out of the mountainside!

2010-11-08T15:29:00.000-08:00

Cinque Terra towns are all steep and uphill from the coast!

Vernazza!

On Bruce and Shari's bedroom balcony!

Someone carved our name into the cactus in front of our 'room at the top'!

2010-11-08T15:24:00.000-08:00

Via de l'amore hike....LOVE-ly!

Jim and Jo begin the hike!

Bruce and Shari!

2010-11-08T15:20:00.000-08:00

After the hike - a welcome swim in the Vernazza harbor!

One of our delicious and elegantly executed dinners!

On the hike thru Cinque Terra!

The view of the Mediteranean on the hike!

2010-11-08T15:12:00.000-08:00

FLORENCE
A Wine Parade happening just outside our Hotel Window. Some sort of Celebration of the Grape Harvest.

In front of Hotel Brunellecci.

At the LDS branch in Florence

One of our famous pasta dinners...just after Shari and I got 'lost' diamond shopping!

2010-11-08T15:08:00.000-08:00

With the Arno River in the background....we cross over the Bridge Ponti Veccio.

Illegal picture of Michaelangelo's 'David' taken by Jim just before he was chastised!

Shari and I overlooking Fabulous Florence.

Jimmy and I.

2010-11-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

The D'Omo is in the center of Florence! Spectacular!

Had to blog our Hotel Brunellechi room. Fabulous four ****!

The beautiful 'bath'!

Gelato. We had 'alot-o of Gelato'!

2010-11-08T14:47:00.000-08:00

Ah ROME! It's everything anyone has ever said. Wonderful, beautiful city! Here we are at Vatican City. Behind is where you see the Pope wave to his public!

Inside of the St. Peters Cathedral. Amazing!

Night in front of the Coliseum. Our hotel is minutes from here!

The Fountain Treve of 'Three Coins in a Fountain' fame!

2010-11-08T14:36:00.000-08:00

Here we are in Rome - CITY OF LOVE and our last stop on our fabulous journey. With the Lindsays at the Coliseum our first day there!

This is the arch which the Arc d'triumph in Paris was modeled after, celebrating Charlemagne's success in establishing Christianity over the Roman Empire

Here is Jim, smack in the middle of the two football field long Forum - the center of Rome in it's beginnings.

We met up with Elder Luke Busico (Ann and Joe's son) with his companion. GREAT REUNION!

2010-10-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

What, SUMMER'S gone?

2010-09-15T19:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't taken any pictures on my camera since Palm Springs....but summer is always here and gone before you know it.
To recap, after Palm Springs it was the 4th of July. Most of the family went to Bear Lake. Ben got warning ticket for shooting off fireworks that I asked him to buy, the boys all worked at making home-made anchors for the boat and raft, Poppy and Ben made and shot off rockets that everyone loves to watch and we enjoyed boating on my favorite lake. Whitney, Sammi and Lulu went to Ohio later in the month so Jim and I watched Mason for a few days. He is a tall, lanky and awesomely active 3 1/2 year old who doesn't stop moving, even at night. But it was fun to do some one on one bonding with him and we learned that he has alot of energy and.....tenacity (hang-on-to-it-iveness). This, I'm sure will serve him well in life.
I spent quite a bit of time at the cabin - just me. In between busy weekends, it was fun to 'chill' with Marg and Jan, who are often up their by themselves too. They have BIG ideas, as usual, and are trying to put together a Scandanavian Cruise for we sibs next summer. Sixteen days is a long time to be gone for Jim and I....but it will be hard to miss this trip!
August brought the BIG WEDDING of Kate Lindsay and our Richie. It was a lovely day (although Rich got Mono the day after). The next week our boarders Bob, Sara and Duncan moved to Pittsburgh for Bob to start his studies in Prosthetics. We got a scype account and are really loving seeing them all - especially our darling Duncan, up close and 'almost' personal, in the scype camera. We SURE MISS 'EM ALL!
Also, sometime during the hot summer months, I convinced Jim that we needed to L-I-V-E, and take a trip to Italy with the Lindsays. Soooo, we're off this weekend for Paris, Lausanne Switzerland and Italy! YIKES! We're excited and hoping it's everything we've anticipated for three months. Hoping we can really relax and enjoy the ambiance of Europe! PICTURES WILL BE FORTHCOMING.

I am loving my darling grandchildren. Corbin and Sammi just started kindergarter, Mason is a wild and crazy 3 year old and our babies Jaden (14 months), Luella ((10 months), Duncan (7 months),and Olivia (5 months) are growing and getting more lovable by the second. We just started up with our weekly 'cousins club' every Thursday afternoon, where we get together (Moms and kids) and visit and play. Besides enjoying them, I am really relishing my time with MOOTSIE lately. We just celebrated her 89th birthday here at our home this week. She lasted almost 3 hours and, although she is getting quite frail since we moved her to SUNRISE in March, she is still such a GOOD SPORT. I think she is really in better form mentally than she was for her birthday last year. We feel so blessed that Dad left her with the means to be taken care of in such a great mannon. The workers at SUNRISE say Mom is their favorite; often the hardest and busiest, but the most FUN! I hope I can take a leaf our of her book as I age.
Arreviderchi until our return in October!

PALM DESERT 2010

2010-06-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

Wow - the FAMILY is GROWING! In June we all escaped to Palm Desert, California to spend a week in the dry desert heat of the Marriott Shadow Ridge Enclaves. This was a little 'surprise' gift for Jim's 60th and scheduling a time when everyone can get together is becoming a real challenge. Jim and I with Marsie, Lance and baby Olivia traveled in one car, followed by Ben and Whitney's gang. Cob's family, Pat and Anna-Lisa and Bob, Sara and baby Duncan followed the day after. Marse, Whit and I made a mad dash to Costco and Walmart upon our arrival to get all the food for the pre-planned menus for the week. We packed three refrigerators full of food and headed for the pools. The weather was perfect, despite the 100+ degree heat. The trick is to stay wet - and we did spend much of our time poolside. Besides the kid-popular pool time, the guys golfed, the girls outlet shopped, some played tennis and shuffleboard and everyone found time to enjoy a little R and R! We even managed to get a family picture (color coordinated and all) taken and, as you can see, Jim and are are very RICHLY BLESSED indeed. There isn't anyone we would rather spend time with than the original FIVE, their spouces and children. We say SIXTY is SENSATIONAL!!!

St. George Joanne's 60th!

2010-04-05T11:25:00.000-07:00

We had cooler weather this trip, so headed for Sand Hallow indoor pool for a fun birthday swim with the Ben Rich and Bob Rich families. Poppy and I are still so fun, yes? A great outing...we do love our St. George home!

Ben, Whitney, Sammi, Mason, and Lu Lu

2010-04-05T11:20:00.000-07:00

We had a great time celebrating my 60th birthday in St. George with Ben and Whitney's cute little family, Bob and Sara and new little Duncan James!

Bob, Sara and our 'dunky-doodle dandy'!

2010-04-05T11:17:00.000-07:00

EASTER

2010-04-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

All the Rich Bunnies gathered on Plum Creek Lane for Easter/Conference Brunch this past Sunday. What a joy to have all our family living so close. We are so blessed to have wonderful children, 'children-in-law, and adorable (we must add) grandchildren to enjoy whenever schedules permit.
I was asked recently (again) who my 'favorites' were and am always baffled that anyone would ask! It is an 'impossible' question. I might add, it is also 'impossible' to always be 'fair' with your children. Now that most of our gang are themselves parents. I hope this is becoming more clear. When Coby was born and I was expecting Ben, I worried how I could share this love. Then Ben was born - WOW! Then Pat, Bob, Marianne....WOWEE! All I can think to describe it is to say it's like the heart grows a new chamber or the home adds a lovely new room with each new life. It is just BIGGER and BETTER and your love grows as needed. Then your children marry, grandchildren arrive and it expands even more. There is no part of the chamber or home that is more special than another. One can't even exit, it seems, without the other. At times, one of the rooms may need a makeover and the other rooms may feel a little abandoned, but they are never needed or loved less. Sooner or later, its their turn for a fix up and hopefully, everyone is happy. That is, at least, our hope!

I am so grateful for the wonderful deminsion that each of our children adds to our lives. I love how they all make me laugh. As they say, "if they never make you cry, they'll never make you laugh: and so goes parenthood! Each has been blessed in choosing a companion that has brought new colors to our family art pallet. We are learning new ways to do things and adjusting to new ideas that once again enrich and expand our lives. Then there are the precious new little ones who remind us again, how great life is; grandchildren! What amazing spirits they all come with! Each has their own distinct personalities and set of instructions that surely take time and patience to read, but it's always worth it. We, as grandparents, not only know that we're NOT in charge, but are grateful our children ARE! Still, we hope our influences are positive and that they all feel deeply and equally loved! They are so important in lives and each is very special to us.

So, that is the latest! Let's call it my 'Sixty year old Sermon'! A new decade has begun and the 'winds of change' are blowin'. We have recently put Mootsie into a retirement home and that is both a blessing and a loss. I've missed her for a decade and miss her even more now, but it is part of the circle of life. I know we will once again adjust and expand our hearts and horizons. I AM grateful for all of it ...this wondrous life I've been blessed with. I look forward to fabulous fun and times ahead with Jim, family and friends! Vive le present and future, the ins and outs, the ups and downs and all the love time can permit! Happy days ahead!

Bunnies Anna-Lisa and Pat

2010-04-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Little bunnies 'take five' after hunt

2010-04-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

Lance's # 1 Bunny and # 2 close by

2010-04-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

Bunnies Mason, Ben and Lu

2010-04-05T09:45:00.000-07:00

Bunnies Tif, Corbin, Coby and Jaden

2010-04-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

Coby's down!

2010-04-05T09:39:00.000-07:00

Ben and little Lu Lu

2010-04-05T09:38:00.000-07:00

The Easter hunt apparently wore everyone out!

Easter Hunt

2010-04-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

Finding Jim and Jaden under the piano was surprise part of the Easter 'hunt'!

Rich Family 'Sacred Second Sunday' Dinner

2010-03-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

March Birthday Kids
Mason, Mama Jo, Bob

2010-03-19T16:45:00.000-07:00

The RICH MEN
Lance (Welch), Jim, Coby,Ben, Bob, Pat

2010-03-19T16:36:00.000-07:00

The RICH WOMEN
Whitney, Marianne, Anna-Lisa
Sara, Tiffany....at Pat and Anna's house
for our Sacred Second Sunday Dinner
in March

VALENTINES DAY 2010

2010-02-19T16:21:00.000-08:00

Corbin and Sammi

Lu Lu, Honey and Jaden

2010-02-19T16:20:00.000-08:00

Honey and Poppy

Valentines Dinner

2010-02-19T16:18:00.000-08:00

Anna, Johnny, Tif, Coby, Jaden, Ben, Lance, Marse

Valentines Dinner

2010-02-19T16:17:00.000-08:00

Lance, Marse, Whitney, Ben, Mason, Sara, Bob, Duncan, pat

DUNCAN JAMES RICH

2010-02-19T16:12:00.000-08:00

Bob and Sara and wee Duncan James

Born 2/10/2010 6lbs. 6oz 21in long

Blog in a Fog

2010-02-08T06:45:00.000-08:00

So, I'm not the best BLOGGER. To tell the truth, if something turns out well on these pages, it's purely coincidental. Having everything at your 'fingertips' as we seem to in this modern high tech world, is a blessing and a curse. If you hit the wrong button, ZAP - it's all history. I've been working this morning to do a little 'catch up' but finding my work disappearing before my eyes. So - here is a little recap of the last few months, without the visuals (hopefully to be added later).

Since the birth of our darling Lu Lu (Ben and Whitney's daughter born in November) I've been on roller-skates. My fabulous troupe, 'Songkeepers' rehearsed and perfomed throughout December, raising my holiday spirits, as always. Now we've begun work on my 6th 'musical readers theater' production, "Accentuate the Positive". Why, why, why do I do these things. I guess because I do LOVE words and music and performing it all! Ok, back to Christmas.

As usual we loved being with our children. We had a fun pre-Christmas dinner (just the adults) at Gardner Village, put on the first annual 'Breakfast with Santa' with all the Patterson grandkids, and spent Christmas Adam (the night before the Night before) with children and grandchildren here at home; dinner, entertainment, presents and all. Christmas day was the usual bedlam too - but we managed to enjoy it all! On to VALENTINES DAY!

Our family now numbers 18 and counting and are truly the light of our lives. Spending time with them is always my favorite and being 'Honey' (grandma) is JOY beyond measure. You might say it's serious 'busy-ness' keeping them all content, however. Let me explain...the BUSINESS. I've elected Sammi (Ben and Whitney's 4 going on 10 year old) President of 'Talkaholics Anonomous' (talk, talk, talk) with Corbin (Coby and Tif's 4 year old) VP of Public Relations (he's the 'smooth it over' guy)! Add to that our nearly three year old Mason (Ben and Whitney's), VP of Sales (his HIGH energy level and vocal volume won him this position) and you've got a winning team. Of course, the new babes are essential players in the company's success. Six month old Jaden (Coby and Tif's 3rd son) is a real team player, jabbering 'Da Da' at staff meetings and always approving agendas with his fabulous GRIN. And our little Lu Lu is setting new high standards for beauty and style! And yes, we're adding to the team the next couple of months; Bob and Sara with a boy in February and Marianne and Lance with a girl in April. Our empty- nester days may have arrived, but the BIRDS are still flocking to it ....with gusto!

Speaking of we 'empty nesters', Jim and I will both be 60 this year!!!!! I suppose in 10 years, that's going to look GOOD, but for now I think I'm in denial. It's hard to realize that the decades are flying by so quickly. We both still feel fairly young and lively, although Jim is on the C-Pap machine at night (yes, I sleep with Darth Vadar) and suffering a ruptured disc in his neck and I've recovered from my bulging disc, but everything else seems to be bulging! Oh well....we still like each other...ALOT... and are looking forward to fun in the future; no matter WHAT!

Did I mention the dogs. Well, it hasn't been the best year for them. Ten year old Toby is going on three years with diabetes and is pretty blind and not in great form. Ginger is going on 15 and deaf and (I was going to say dumb - but she is so sweet). Then our children had to have dogs so now we have three grand-dogs; Jasmine, Molly and little Berkely. It's ok until they all come to visit!!!!! Oh why did I ever encourage this love of animals!!!!!

Well, the sun is up and the dogs want to be fed and let out. (My day; let the dogs in, let the dogs out). So until next blog, HAPPY DAYS! Let it be said, I've POSTED!
HAPPY DAYS AHEAD to all.

2010-02-08T06:10:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS 2009...Catching Up!
Here are the Union 1st Ward High Priests singing 'Brothers' (adaptation of 'Sisters' from White Christmas - new lyrics by Rich and Hammerstein) at the annual Ward Christmas Party!

2010-02-08T06:05:00.000-08:00

A little shot of our first BREAKFAST WITH SANTA. Never underestimate the intelligence of your grandchildren. A few guessed our 'guest' Santa. The Patterson gang decided this will be an annual event.

2009-11-10T19:24:00.000-08:00

Baby 'Luella' has arrived!
Sammi and Mason Rich are the proud sister and brother of little 'Luella' Rich, born to Whitney and Ben on Monday, November 2nd at 1:45 p.m. She weighed in at 6 lbs. 8 oz and most of that weight was in thick black hair! She is our newest black beauty and we are so happy to welcome her into the Rich Clan. We now stand at 18 - with 4 grandsons and 2 grand daughters. LUCKY US! Congratulations! Well done!

BIG SURPRISE LETTER!

2009-09-14T08:05:00.000-07:00

Last night at the Marriott Mountainside resort, our family met for our monthly dinner, (we call it the 'Sacred Second Sunday' dinner) and were interrupted by a knock on the door! A Marriott employee appeared with an envelope which Jim proceeded to open and read. It was on official Marriott letterhead, so we were impressed that they would send us a special 'welcome' note! Instead this is what was written...!
"We would sincerely like to thank you for your choice to stay with us at the Park City Mountainside Resort through the Marriott Vacation club! Aside from thanking you for our stay we would like to announce and congratulate the newest proud parents to be, Lance and Marianne Welch, whose little blessing is due to arrive April 5th, 2010! Congratulations and enjoy the rest of your stay here with us!

Sincerely, The Welches

My 'baby' is having a 'baby'! Just wanted you all to know how happy we are!

'SUMMER'-izing Summer '09

2009-09-02T13:10:00.000-07:00

Where do they go, those lazy, hazy, crazy days of Summer? We began with the joyous new birth; our 5th grandchild Jaden James Rich, born to Coby and Tiffany on June 30th. From there we enjoyed some wonderful weekends at the lake, including a JEMCO family reunion and a Sternling R. and Beth P. Rich Reunion. The 'Alaska Cruise' was a highlight, along with more baby news, announced to Jim and I in the celestial room of the Jordan River Temple. Yes, Bob and Sara are expecting February 26th, 2010! Of course, first we have to hear the 'surprise' news from Ben and Whitney in November. (the surprise is the baby's sex)! Jim and I also just enjoyed a Pocock Family Reunion in Rexburg (Beth's family) where we learned the ropes of 'choke-cherry picking' and enjoyed getting to better know Jim's cousins. Now we're into September, and although Fall is not yet 'in the air', we know it's coming - as life seems to race faster and faster each year. This month will also mark the passing of our darling, sweet Jackie. We miss him and often feel him so near. Wish our eyes were more 'spiritual' to really see him, but our faith is steady in the knowledge that we will again someday! Here are a few picture highlights of the last few months!

MEXICAN RIVIERA CRUISE '08

2009-08-10T16:27:00.000-07:00

Here we are on a Mexican Riviera Cruise one
year ago this month. Much has happened in
a year - but these couples are still, 'the best'!

2009-08-10T16:25:00.000-07:00

Honey and Poppy

ALASKA OR BUST!!

2009-08-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

Jim and I enjoyed a FABULOUS ALASKA CRUISE this July with my siblings, Marg, Brent and Janette, and Rob and Liz. We visited the ports of Skagway, Juneau (Sara Pallin's hometown) and Ketchekan. We also sailed into Glacier Bay and, on the way to Vancoucer, had a beautiful day in the 'Inside Passage'! I especially loved playing games with the sibs, the ship entertainment and trivia games, the food and time alone with Jim. Our ship, The Sapphire Princess, even made the local news, sailing into Vancouver with a 'Fin Whale' impalled on it's front!

2009-08-03T16:39:00.000-07:00

BOATS IN PORT - ours far left!

2009-08-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

BABY HUSKIES - SO CUTE!

2009-08-03T16:31:00.000-07:00

We crossed over into Canada and the Yukon on our day in Skagway

The 'Sibs' in Alaska

2009-08-03T16:27:00.000-07:00

Our mighty leader in Skagway, "OZ"!

2009-08-03T08:31:00.000-07:00

Glacier Bay

2009-08-03T08:27:00.000-07:00

GIRLS OUTING TO BEAR LAKE

2009-07-14T19:59:00.001-07:00

Last week a few of my favorite ladies spend a night and day at the cabin. I still need to blog the other group picture - but here are the former Duncan girls (Chris and Suzi) and Sue Ryser. The day they left, Cynthia, Cherie, Wendy, Jan, Sandy and Jacque arrived. Love sharing with good and FUN FRIENDS!

2009-07-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

2009-07-13T09:23:00.000-07:00

JEMCO FAMILY REUNION '09

2009-07-13T09:14:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Mindy McGrath, Kim Peterson, Coby Rich and Doug Sonnenberg, JEMCO committee members, for another fabulous reunion at BEAR LAKE. We have some 80 plus family decendants of Edna Mae and John Edwin McMullin - with Barbara McMullin Patterson and Ruth Fisher McMullin the surviving matriarchs. Here are a few photos from the 'big bash'! Love to all!

2009-07-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

'LIFT OFF' for baby JAYDEN JAMES RICH!

2009-07-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome Jayden James Rich - born June 30th, 2009!

Coby, Tiffany and Corbin are grateful for a sweet, beautiful

healthy newbaby boy. Heaven-sent, we all feel 'baby Jayden James'

has spent a few months with his 'heavenly' brother, Jackie -

who will always be part of this wonderful family. Blessings

and love to all!

VEGAS OR BUST!!!

2009-06-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

HOW ABOUT THESE BABES? Here we are on our first official RICH/WELCH SIX girls outing to VEGAS. We stayed in a timeshare on Tropicana, a couple of miles west of the strip. We sunned, shopped the outlets, walked and walked, chatted, saw a great variety show 'V' at Planet Hollywood, ate, chatted, slept, toured hotels, had FREE makeovers at Sophora (make up store), watched movies, even exercised a little and made some fabulous jewelry (necklaces, watch bands etc. ). I am so LUCKY to have smart SONS who married so well. Not to mention a beautiful daughter (and her 'Lance'-alot) who makes life's colors, brillant! Here's to many more fun outings!

2009-05-21T17:04:00.000-07:00

BIRTHDAY MEMORIAL FOR JACK
This past Sunday, May 17th our family met at the Memorial Estates Cemetery to commemorate what would have been Jacks
2nd birthday, May 20th. Coby spoke and reinforced his great faith in the plan of exhaltation and eternal families. Tiffany brought
mini-cupcakes for friends and family to share. Baby blue balloons were let go heavenward with many special thoughts for our sweet
Jackie, who I'm certain is quite aware of us and longs to be close. We add our faith to Coby and Tiffany's that we will see, hold and make memories with Jackie again. He is still such a blessing in our lives and we can only imagine the great JOY we'll all have seeing each other
again. Love to a special family (Coby, Tif and Corbin). Can't wait to hold the new wee one, knowing he will have been with Jack in heaven.

TEA PARTY TIME

2009-05-13T16:31:00.000-07:00

Darling Sammi and I attended a tea party at Gardner village last weekend, where we were
treated with a tiered tray of 'tasties' (including Engish scones with clotted creame) and dresses galore for Sammi to try on, one after the other. We had lovely china tea cups and Sammi drank pink hot chocolate. Each dress fit Sammi perfectly (age 4 must be the meen age for tea parties with Moms and Grandmas). Sammi was DELIGHTFUL and we both had a wonderful time, just the TWO OF US!

Pat's Graduation -U of U

2009-05-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

May 8th, 2009
Congratulations to Pat who graduated with a BS in Mass Communications this week. Anyone looking for an amazing and creative mind, please contact him for employment! We're pretty proud Pat. You're a WINNER!

2009-05-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

MASON, CORBIN AND SAMMI:

Our darling grandchildren Easter egg hunting and enjoying the joys of push-up pops
on the porch. Mason turned two in March and Corbin and Sammi will be four in
July. Oh joy and bliss.....GRANDPARENT-HOOD!

2009-05-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

MARIANNE'S GRADUATION - UVU '09
Today our darling Marianne graduated in elementary education from UVU, first class of the University status. Lance graduated from BYU last August and the two love birds (still) have just bought a home in Sandy. We'll miss them living in the basement and all the swoons and giggles from 'down under', but are so happy they will be near by.
CONGRATS MARSIE....You did it and we're so proud

MOVING FORWARD

2009-04-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

JACKSON BURTON RICH 5/20/07-9/ 23/08

It is impossible to describe the loss of a child, especially your own. We have survived and are moving forward with faith, but we will not be the same - ever! Jackie is deeply missed! We have all lost our innocence. We are grateful for our faith as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the promise of our family living all together again, eternally. It's amazing how his short life has touched not just our own, but countless others. Tomorrow, May 1st, 2009, a large photo of Jack will be on its way to Kenya where it will hang in a newly constructed library for some special African students who have been helped by a program called 'Koins for Kenya", instigated by our Aunt Shelley's sister, Rinda Hayes. The inscription will read, "Share your learning as he shared his love"! So our sweet blue-eyed blonde angel will forever be seen through the eyes of these dark-eyed, dark skinned children who cherrish their opportunity to learn. We love you Jackie, and know you are about the Lords work, on earth and in heaven!

2009-04-30T15:48:00.001-07:00

2009-04-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

Hi family: Just seeing if this works. I haven't blogged for several months and don't know what I am doing.....testing, testing!

Bob and Sara Duncan wed May 9th

2007-08-07T20:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm a little new at blogging and
things are a bit out of order - bear
with me! Still waiting for wedding
pictures from our newlyweds. Will
post later. Happy days!

March to August. We're catching up!

2007-08-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

Jim is really enjoying being a 'Poppy'!

Pat and Anna

2007-08-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

Pat and Anna Lisa Osmond
were married on March 16th.
They just honeymooned in July
to Norway, visiting many of Anna's
family who still live there. A
fantastic trip for a fabulous new
duo!

Hawaii 07

2007-08-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

Marianne, Sara Sargent and Elisa Patterson
did a spring semester at BYU Hawaii. We Mom's
went to pick them up and had a BLAST!

2007-08-07T20:07:00.000-07:00

July Hawaiian Luau at Bear Lake with
Lance Welch, Marianne and Kuku
Munga Rob! (Lance is a 'good' friend
of Marianne's!

2007-08-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ben, Whitney, Sammy and Mason
at Bear Lake. Love em!

Spring baby boom!

2007-08-07T14:05:00.000-07:00

March madness: Mason Ballsteadt Rich - born March 11th
May Mayheim: Jackson Burton Rich - born May 20th
They just happened to have the same nighties on! Love it!

summer '07

2007-08-07T14:00:00.000-07:00

Two of our best blessings, Corbin and Jackson Rich (Cob and Tif's) are having early morning lessons!
See them on skis next summer!

Summer -07

2007-08-07T13:53:00.000-07:00

Here it is! Proof that once again 50 'somethings' can get it done!
Beautiful Bear Lake, July '07. Thanks Coby for getting me out of
bed and into the water! I LOVED it!

La Caille with Tiff and Cob

2007-07-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

Hey Good Lookin'

First Blog

2007-07-11T19:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
This my first attempt at blogging. Wish me luck. Pictures to come.

Love,
Mama Jo