"And in the end, it is not the years in life that matter, but the life in years."

In the 40's he arrived, the only son of Ruth and Earl.
In the 50's he started school,


and fell in love with the "neighbor girl".


In the 60's, he moved around, played his guitar, and joined a band.


Until it was time to serve the Lord, as a missionary in a foreign land.


In the 70's, that neighbor girl


...was his wife and he was glad.


He practiced law,


... bought a home, and four little girls called him "DAD."


In the 80's, his sons were born, but his father passed away.


He changed his job, packed a van and took all his girls across the USA.


In the 90's he did lots of fishing,


...paid for weddings,




...and wrote liquor laws.

He lost his mother,


...took Mom to England, and became know as the "Grandpa".


From 2000 to 2010, he enjoyed and endured a lot.
Bought Mom her dream home made of "providence" brick, and trimmed every tree on the lot.

He welcomed all his children, one by one, they moved back in.
His girls brought many grandkids,


...one son got married, and one served a mission.


He was happy, he was content, ready to begin his "golden years".


But 2008 would be different, filled with heartache and many tears.

The "Love of his Life", the "neighbor girl" he loved so young,


Passed away and went to heaven, her earthly work was done.


He was lost, his heart was broken, he was sad, yet he was strong.


He spent time reflecting, being thankful, then realized he had to LIVE on...

He squared his shoulders, took a deep breath and with his children by his side.


He met a lady, got to know her, and asked her to be his bride.


So, you see he has been busy, especially this last little while.
But looking back on his life thus far, he can only stand and smile.


He learned, he served, he wed. He has GREAT posterity. :)


He has accomplished and done so much and he's only 63!!

Happy Birthday to this man - who leads and guides our family.
Have a Great Year and many many many many more....
Happy Birthday to YOU from ME.


Happy Birthday Dad!!

It's Derby Time...

Mackay and Aaron participated in their first Pinewood Derby.

They started working on the car 3 weeks ago. Whoa.... Where was I when my brothers were doing this?? I must have been in my selfish-years, because I don't recall Dad and the boys stressing over every aspect of the derby. It was crazy to see how “in-to-it” the boys, and I mean the DADS were. I had to laugh watching the men try to figure out if it was better to have the weight in the front of the car or the back, on top of the car or underneath. The testosterone in the room was unreal. Then there were the Cubs – they stood patiently next to their dads, looking up with nervous eyes, waiting to be told they can now touch their cars.

I was a bit nervous walking in, I wasn't sure if we would leave with tears or smiles. I almost took a magazine to distract me from the competition. I entered the gym and was greeted with a familiar voice saying, “Hello, Dawn!” There was Don Allen. I grew up in the Butler 8^th ward with Don Allen. We moved in when I was three and I moved out when I got married at 19 years later. Don Allen has been a family friend for many years. He fishes with my dad and has done many electrical projects (like halos) for my mom. He has been doing Pinewood Derbies for 30 years!! It was so fun to see him.

He asked if I would help.

I spent the next two hours recording the times of 17 cars race four times each. I was stressed and sweaty by the end... hoping I recorded everything correctly. Occasionally, I would look up to see Mackay jump up with excitement when his car would race. I loved seeing Aaron raise a fist of success when his, I mean THEIR car did well.

Mackay's car won "Best Decals"...not sure what that means. I loved how Troy Polamalu's face sits in the windshield and the back of his head is in the rear window- mighty clever!! Troy drove a sweet looking car, not the fastest, but definitely sweet!

Hayden loved the excitement and even got to race a banana car.

We left with smiles!! All in all, it was a great night.

Oh, except for the fact, that my face turned red and splotchy and my throat got really tight, now I have NO voice and I didn't do any screaming – Aaron thinks I may be allergic to graphite??? Lovely!!!

Way to Go Mackay & Aaron!!

INSPIRED...

My friend, Kelly Webb Massey, lost her husband, Joe, last month. He needed a new liver and passed away while waiting.

Kelly was my friend. Joe was my sister Ashley's friend. When Ash and I talked about our experiences with these two people, it was as if we were talking about the same person. Kelly and Joe were sincere friends to those they met. They cared about the people around them. They took time to say, “Hello”. They didn't duck in a grocery store aisle because they didn't look cute or didn't have time to chat. They made sure you knew they cared. Both Kelly and Joe were GOOD people.

I talked to Kelly a few weeks ago to see how she was doing. She was inspiring. She said -

-She has bad moments, but hasn't had a bad day.
-She hates hearing it's going to be hard, she knows it and doesn't want to be reminded.
-She is grateful Joe worked from home for the past few years. He spent more time with his family then some husbands/dads do in a lifetime.
-And, of course, she said she misses her best friend and cries.

Unfortunately, they did not have health or life insurance. So, on top of the emotional ache of losing her spouse, she is hurting financially.

Last night Ashley, a few of her kids, Kenzie, and I attended a Benefit Concert for Joe's family. Many of their friends gathered donations for a silent auction and invited local artists to perform.

I was inspired at the many people who performed. Life is busy and one more night away from family is a sacrifice. I know some of the performers didn't know Joe and Kelly personally, but they were willing to share their talents to help a young mother in need.

I was inspired at the many people that came. It didn't cost a lot, yet every penny spent will go to Kelly and her children. The auditorium at Jordan High School was packed. Ashley and I expected to see many of our friends from high school. We didn't, but we saw a lot of families. My neighbor sat behind me. When I asked how she knew Joe and Kelly, she said, she didn't - she heard about the concert and decided to bring her daughters. Another lady that exercises with me saw a poster around town and decided to make it a family night. Strangers in our community brought their families to contribute to a good cause. That in itself was inspiring.

The performance inspired all ages in different ways. As I sat with gratitude in my heart, feeling inspired to be more thankful and serve more often, my daughter sat memorized and couldn't wait to get home to get her guitar out and play, inspired to use her talents.

It was a great night. I can't imagine what Kelly is going through. I hope to never know. I came home INSPIRED to be a better person, to kiss my kids and to tell my husband how much I love him. Inspired to take more pictures, send more cards, smile more often, and to spend more time playing “Old Maid” instead of acting like one.

I kissed my kids goodnight and crawled into my bed - grateful to have my husband next to me. Then I listened to my sweet little girl, unknowingly, serenade me to sleep.

These are a few of my favorite things...

I went to a church gathering last Wednesday for just women. The party theme was based on the song from Sound of Music and the line, “Brown Paper Packages tied up in string, these are a few of my Favorite Things.” Our assignment was to bring a brown paper bag with our favorite thing in it. We would then give our favorite thing away.

I gave it plenty of thought and wanted to come up with something different and unique. Something that I LOVE but that not anyone else would bring. Of course, I thought Diet Coke, but knew there would probably be several other bags filled with Diet Coke – to my surprise, no one brought Diet Coke – shame on you all.

I began asking those close to me, “What are my favorite things?” My husband's first response- “Put a party hat in your bag – you love to throw parties.” He is right, I LOVE hosting parties. Then he said, “Lip Gloss – you love make up.” Some of you may be giggling right now, especially if you have accompanied me to St. George without my sweet husband. It isn't a pretty sight...

I, of course, asked my sisters. To my surprise they answered almost the same way. First, they all said “Diet Coke”... and then they said, “Think of the things you love. You love your family, your church, and your mom.”

I was glad that my sisters knew that I loved my family. But does my family know that I love them?? Do I say it enough? Do I show them? I do LOVE my family. I adore my husband and feel privileged to be his wife. I adore my children and am grateful to be their mother. I don't feel like I am very good at being either one, but hope they know how blessed they have made my life and how much I LOVE them.

I love my church. I am thankful for the gospel of Jesus Christ, for the comfort and peace it gives my life. And especially for the HOPE that one day, I can be with my family forever. My testimony is strong. I know without a doubt that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. I do LOVE my church.

I love my mom. I knew that I loved my mom, but losing my mom, made me realize just how much I LOVE her. She was my best friend. I miss her terribly.

Yes, those are the things that top my “favorite things” list, but I still didn't know what I wanted to put in my brown paper package.

I continued to ponder and realized, I wanted my family and friends to know ALL of my favorite things. You can learn a lot about a person, if you know some of the things they love.

When my mom passed away, each one of my siblings got to speak at her funeral. I chose to share some of the things that SHE loved. I was so glad that I knew the things that made her happy. She made sure we knew her favorite things. Some were trivial, like large chocolate milkshakes, lime sherbet, and lemon candles. Her favorite color was red and she loved tulips. I knew her favorite scripture was 3 John 1:4. I knew that her favorite holiday was the 4^th of July and that her greatest joy was her family.

So, I decided it is time for a blog. I have learned a lot about many of you because I read your blogs. Unfortunately, I am not a good writer, like my brother Josh. I am not calm and collected in my thoughts and life, like my sister Amanda. I am not funny, like my mom's best friend Debbie. I am not good at giving advice and finding the silver-lining, like my best friend Alyssa. I am an open book and not a good speller, like my cute daughter Kenzie. I am dramatic and get worked up easily. I sweat the small stuff. I get sad and feel sorry for myself often because my mom died. I love sharing ALL the details. But that is what I want for this blog. I want my children to read how much I love them. I want my husband to know how lucky and blessed I feel because he “chose me”. I want my siblings and dad to know how grateful I am for them. I want my family, friends and extended family to know my favorite things.

So Read, don't edit. Read, don't judge. Read, and smile- knowing I hit “send” before I hit “spell-check”.

I love raindrops on roses, I don't love whiskers on kittens (I hate cats), I love bright copper kettles (especially for a centerpiece) and warm mittens (not wool because it's itchy). I love brown paper packages tied up in strings (that come in the mail). ...These are a few of my favorite things.

BTW – I put a pair of flip flops and sunblock in my bag. I love the sun - thus the flip flops. And I hope to live longer then 59 years old – thus the sunblock. :)

Written By Kenz (Holy Cow)

HOLY COW!!!!!!!!!!!!! July was my last post. I guess being a teenager with a blog is difficult work! (: Sooo many things have gone on! Umm.. Where the heck do I start!? August- School started.. 7th grade is very different that elementary! More classes, no recess):, and more SCARY odd teachers. I took French, mom says it a feminine language, I saw its the Devil. But now that I am in my second tri-mester. I am thinking again. Pretty sure that German and "Frau" Miskin is Satan. Lets just see what Spanish has to offer-since I chose that for my Language ALLL year next school year.. It better be good. Ha. September..Uhh.. October.. November.. December. CHRISTMAS(: Yah. That is all i got. A new year began.. 2010. I have such difficulties writing that. I will start writing 09, stop at the 0 and squeeze a 1 in there(: January was a crazy month! Umm. January 9, the twins were born! My twin (ADORABLE) boy cousins. Ben and Colin(: Now, I just need to meet them... It was my daddy's birthday so my parents went on a cruise! Mexico-without me(: Dang. But Jessica came and babysat! That was the funniest weekend. Got to do a lot of Dance Parties with my best friend. Short Shorts, V-Necks, Knee-high socks, blasting music! Ahh. Good weekend. Except I sort of became a women that weekend...Yeah, that was a downer. BUT I thought of the positive and kept it a secret. Ha! When my parents came home. It was sorta like "Disneyland Depression". No offense mom.. January, you could say, when down hill. On the 28th my great gma Betty died. :( She was so great and I will miss her. We all will. So my family went down to Reno for her funeral. I was able to stay with the Allen's. Thanks Jenn! That was a way fun weekend too!! Late nights watching movies(: But I had some Valentine drama during that. My BEST guy friend asked me to be his Valentine! But I rejected him. Didn't want to make it awkward was my excuse(: I told him if anyone else asked me, I'd say no.. Another guy asked me. I said yes. I lost a friend.. DRAMA! Ugh. I'm 13 for crying out loud, wanna give me a break!!! Yeah. So i have a valentine(: .... I am not sure what else to say.. So I am going to stop here.(:

Written by Kenz (My Close Family)

My Close Family...... I LOVE EM'!

Now the Hatch Family has left the building.... :( Their little family plus Ashley left around 9ish this morning to go on their long journey back to Indiana. Even though it is hard to say goodbye, we had some very fun times while they were here. We had tons of family parties, boating every weekend, Gpa Earls encounter with "dying" ( He had a mild heart attack) A Dorius/Tyler Party, Going to the pool, Gpa Earl and Roe's Wedding, Sleepover with Joshie and Megan and The Allen Boys, Going to the Gateway and seeing movies, Finding out that Megan and Josh are having TWINS!!!, Me babysitting, Plus, doing Alyson's nails and makeup. Whenever her mommy would leave the house, she would immediately start to cry and the first idea I would say was, "Aly, do you want to do your nails?" And she ALWAYS said yes!! I loved it! They are the cutest family and the best cousins and Aunt and Uncle anyone could ask for! I feel so lucky to have an extended family that is so close to each other! Sometimes when you feel "down" you usually go to your parents but I know I can ask an older cousin or even a close aunt to uncle (preferably someone who plays "C.O.D" if you know what I mean ;) ) and I feel so blessed to have that kind of relationship with my family! So I guess even though the Hatch Family is gone, (Plus Ash :) ) We are still so close that it will feel like they never left! :)

6 COMMENTS:

1. 
   Alyssa HanzonJuly 22, 2009 at 3:22 PM

   You do have a great family. Hopefully you will see Manda, Brett and the kids again soon. Maybe a trip to Indiana? I must be old and out of the loop, though, because I do not know the term COD. Oh, well...have a great week.

   Reply
2. 
   DawnJuly 22, 2009 at 4:37 PM

   We packed a lot of things into a short amount of time... WOW!! Maybe I should pull the "too much fun" rule and stop planning so many fun things... ha ha ;)
   
   I am very grateful for my brothers and sisters. I am lucky to have them. You and your brothers are really lucky too. They all love you guys, more than you will ever realize.
   I love that you and Josh have such a great time together. He is one of the kindest people on the earth - so is his wife.
   I love you Kenzie!! You helped out a lot while Manda was here - babysitting and helping with the kiddos. Thanks!!

   ReplyDelete
3. 
   DebbieJuly 23, 2009 at 6:24 AM

   You are a GREAT girl, McKenzie! I bet your aunt Amanda loved your help. This has been such a year of ups and downs for your family.
   
   Yesterday, Susan B and I went to your Grandma's grave and sat for an hour and talked under an umbrella. It was so nice.
   Is C.O.D. -cash on delivery??? I don't know either.

   Reply
4. 
   KenzieJuly 23, 2009 at 3:39 PM

   You were a big help while Manda was here. We do have a great family and we sure do a lot of fun things together. You can always count on us if you need anything. We love ya.

   Reply
5. 
   amandaJuly 25, 2009 at 8:00 PM

   I was so sad to leave, and now that I am home, I want to come back:( I miss you guys already. Thank you for tending the kiddies and doing Aly's make-up and nails. She loved it.
   You are so sweet. We just love you. Can't wait til next summer!!!

   Reply
6. 
   amandaJanuary 15, 2010 at 4:41 PM

   poot sum picshers on - love jane

   
   

Written by Kenz (The Hatch Family)

The Hatch Family has arrived! Amanda, Brett, Jane, Tobe, and Alyson have made it here to Utah! They came on Wednesday, the 24th , and the party began. Even though Brett had to cut his visit short with some business needed to take care of at home, we will still party without him. Sorry Brett.... Some things we are thinking about doing while having them here is boating, (A LOT) Jungle Jyms, bowling, parties, sleepovers, and swimming! So I will keep you updated on those things when we do them! :) Until then, have a great day. (That was way cheesy)

1 COMMENT:

1. 
   Alyssa HanzonJuly 2, 2009 at 2:25 PM

   Have a great time! Enjoy the holiday weekend. Love, Alyssa and the family