The Roberts' Report

2012-01-21T10:01:00.001-08:00

Love. As the holidays and now January flies by, February the month of Love is soon here. (I know that then we are heading towards spring, my favorite time of the year!) February gives us a holiday dedicated to those in love. It is traditionally a day on which lovers express their love for each other by presenting flowers, candy or sweets and send cards know as valentines. I know that this time of year gives me a time to recall those whom I love and have loved.
There are so many different kinds of love, friendship, romantic, unconditional. Our Savior Jesus Christ showed the ultimate in love for us by giving of Himself as shown through his lifetime of serving others and ultimately offering His life as a sacrifice for all of us. I know this is the kind of love God wants each of us to exemplify in our lives and particularly in our marriages.
I have been cleaning out the boxes of "stuff" from my mom's things. I had a box from the cedar chest of all the cards and pictures she had saved throughout the years. I sat down last night and had the most bittersweet experience. I saw a woman who gave of herself tirelessly making others feel special. There were so many cards of thanks for the gifts the notes and the help she had offered so many. From Mother's Club at St. Emydius, The Junior Catholic Daughters, friends and family, my mother was there to help or offer a card, gift or support. All the cards from high school, college graduations, marriages, baptisms, funeral cards were there. I had a walk down memory lane with all the names I read. I also read all the thank you cards that were sent to my mom. What sweet notes everyone wrote to her. They were all so special and she kept everyone! I had such a great example in front of me my whole life of a loving and caring woman. She was emulating our Savior, that I know. The things that were in her life are now gone. (I did save some of the cards and notes) I pondered that with my daughter and husband the other day. How we are here in our lives and how it can all just be gone. I know this is the way it is planned, we are born and we are here just like that and we go just like that as well. I hope that we learn as we are here to be like our Savior, like my mom tried to do, as we make this journey home. To have the unconditional love for others. To serve our fellow man, to love each other!

2011-11-20T18:31:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving week is here and then the Christmas Season will begin. I know it will all zoom by as the days have a way of doing! Remember to take the time to be with friends and family. I mean to be with them, not just be there but to give them your attention and love. Life moves so fast. It really is short as I am realizing lately as I will never get it all done unless I live to be a 120 years old! (without disability)

We don't have to get it all done, just give it our best with no regrets! Enjoy your Thanksgiving, count your many blessings and have a fun and joyous Christmas Season.

Bittersweet

2011-04-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

October was the last time I posted here? Wow, how time can fly. Well, I have two blogs, a caring bridge and a family and much has happened since October. Excuses, that is what I am good at coming up with! I see the last post was when we were having issues with my mom, Helen. She has been having issues for quite some time actually with her Alzheimer's and medical issues.
Alzheimer's is a horrible disease, slowly taking your loved ones from you. My mother was kidnapped by this disease but Helen passed away peacefully on April 8, 2011. There were three of us there, my brother, my daughter Michelle and myself. I saw her take her last breath and we were all there for her. She was at peace finally and although I miss her and have been missing her, I am so grateful for this. I had prayed for her to go to Heaven for such a long time. I was angry at God, frustrated she had to live like this. I resolved my frustrations, counted my blessings and dug in with caregiving and making sure Helen was safe and taken care of through all this. We had many nights of calling out. Many nights of me saying, "mom, just go to sleep." I know she just couldn't as her brain did what it does as connections are lost. So many are going through this now. I pray for them. I know that now my sweet angel mother is looking after me again. I am so grateful to my parents, Aaron and Helen,for their love, a love I never doubted and it was unconditional! They are together again, looking down on me! No disabilities, smiles and joy are thiers! Thank you Heavenly Father for holding them in your arms. I am at peace as I know they are now!

Mom out of the Hospital

2010-10-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

Helen was so happy to be out of the hospital, I taped her joy. Now she repeated what I told her to say but on the way home she said she was going to say, "yahoo!" when she got back inside her home and in her chair. I kept to her promise. Much has been happening over the past few months. Caregiver change, mom changes and now a hospice consult as she never wants to return to the hospital again. This past year has seen many changes and little by little Helen is leaving us. She still has many things she remembers and knows us all still. I am grateful for that. I want her to have dignity in this disease process and only want the best. To keep her safe and happy is now the primary goal.

Pictures from the Play!

2010-10-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

Had a great time doing a play in Hollywood. Had my doubts initially and then, wow, what a great time. All the cast was a wonderful talented group. Our Director Drew was just a great guy! I could do this again!

2010-09-28T14:33:00.000-07:00

I am in a play. I am Mrs. Robertson and it runs for four Wednesdays ending Oct.13th. Contact me for tickets if you are heading into Hollywood or just want to go to see the play.

A Blog Holiday

2010-08-20T22:01:00.000-07:00

Since my last posting there has been so much happening that I can not even write it down. Caregiver issues. Caregivers needed and caregivers obtained has been a full time job. Mark's dad, as well, now needs the help of caregivers.
I am now the manage health care provider for my mom, the personal shopper, the accountant to name a few. She has progressed in her disease but still knows all of us and remembers many of the old times. I have now tried to really listen to what she talks about. I know that the stories have sometimes gotten mixed together but they are interesting just the same.
I have a safe return bracelet that she needs to wear as she had a "adventure" the other day with getting lost with in Leisure World.
Many mornings she will weigh herself and she has been 103#, 113# and then returning to her average weight of greater than 160#. I smile when she tells me of her weight.
Nothing is wrong with Helen at this time according to her. She does ask why she needs to have he caregivers. There is nothing wrong. I look for the smiles, and do the best I can keeping her safe and happy.

Letter to all

2010-05-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Everyone,
I'm writing to share the news that my mom, Helen, has been diagnosed with symptoms of Demnetia/Alzheimer's disease. We've all been noticing changes and are relieved to have an explanation. Helen has begun treatment to slow the disease's progression and is unfazed. She still thinks that there is nothing wrong with her and her behaviors at this time.
Please know that Helen is still the same person she was before this diagnosis. Although some activities are more challenging and her short-term memory is poorer, Helen 's general health is now back to where she was priviously. Doctors explain that this disease affects everyone at a different pace and in different ways. It usually progresses pretty slowly. Our hope, of course, is that my mom remains stable for years and, with everyone's love and support, continues to live a happy life. There is no cure today -- but we remain hopeful that there will be one in time to help my mom and millions of others. Please keep us in your thoughts at this difficult time -- and don't be a stranger. Helen still likes to play cards, take short walks and see friends and family. She'll enjoy short visits to talk about old times. Alzheimer's experts say families, too, need the support of friends and family as this disease progresses and takes up more of our time and energy. Your continued
involvement will cheer all of us. Feel free to ask me if you have any questions or want to know specific ways to lend a hand. I'll keep you posted on her condition and changing needs. Thanks for caring.
Sincerely,
Laurie

In Minya

2010-05-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

Old Friends in Minya. Some of the women returned again to hear us speak!

Starting the Medical Mission In Egypt

2010-05-08T07:01:00.000-07:00

We began our Mission April 19, 2010

The train to Minia.
Our group, Laurie, Lucinda, Nancy, Minia our translator, Ragaa and Brooke
Cairo. A view from my room of the Nile and the surrounding city. Always busy, a city that never sleeps, there is always someone up driving around honking thier horns.
When I first arrived to Maadi outside of Cairo, where my cousins live, I was wisked away for a wonderful, relaxing trip to Ain Sokhna on the Bay of Suez. Ain Sukhna, the Arabic for "hot spring", was named after the nearby sulfur springs. The springs originate at Gebel Ataka, the northern most mountain in the Eastern Desert. As we sat on the beach, the cool wind blew and we could see the Sinai across the beautiful blue water. The young ones got into the water, but I was just too cold to attempt it.

I missed March!

2010-04-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

Time can fly by, that is for sure. March was fun. So many birthdays and I turned 50! It is not so bad. My family had a GREAT party for me as I wanted to celebrate for this big birthday. I have put is some pictures of the event and I know we all had a great time. Michelle, Greg, Mark, Jen and Becky and Mike did so much to help so that it was a special event in my life. Thank you to all. I love you!

Yummy Dinner for two!

2010-02-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

Stuffed Portabello Mushrooms for 2
2 large portabello mushrooms
2 cups apple cider
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 sweet onion, diced
8 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped finely
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 (5 oz.) bag of baby spinach
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, roughly chopped
4 oz. low-fat cream cheese

1. Remove stems from mushrooms, brush off any dirt or debris and roughly chop.
2, Marinate the caps in the apple cider mixed with balsamic vinegar (use a ziplock bag or wide, shallow bowl) for at least 2 hours.
3. Heat a large saute pan over medium-high heat and cover the bottom with water. Add garlic, onion, chopped mushroom stems, sun-dried tomatoes and cook briefly or until garlic is fragrant. Add spinach and thyme and cook until spinach is wilted.
4. Transfer spinach-mushroom mixture to a bowl and fold in cream cheese.
5. Remove mushroom caps from marinade and fill with mixture. Place in a preheated 350 degree oven for 10 minutes, until mushroom caps are heated through.

Serve with brown rice and squash puree, if desired. A nice garden salad and some dark chocolate for dessert!

Mathamagician

2010-01-31T14:54:00.000-08:00

You have to check out this guy! A mathamagician! Wow is all I can say! I can barely do my times tables! CLICK HERE to see Art at work!

Airport, Santo Domingo and Jimani

2010-01-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

Stops along the way

2010-01-30T08:23:00.000-08:00

We stopped along the way and met a team on the way back from Jimani. The doc filled us in on what to expect. The driver took us to a fast food restaurant which I did not eat. I fell in love with the cute Dominican boys on the street!

On the road to Jimani

2010-01-30T08:14:00.000-08:00

Good Samaritan

2010-01-30T08:02:00.000-08:00

We arrived to the Good Samaritan Hospital in Jimani after our long drive. We were greeted and given a quick tour. All of us were anxious to get started. It was very busy and people and vehicles and supplies were all over. It looked like some military scene and we found out soon how our mash unit was run.

Scenes

2010-01-30T07:42:00.000-08:00

Much was always happening in different parts of the hospital, the orphanage, the chapel, the OR, the tent. We had sick (septic) patients and throughout our stay there were no deaths. The people there from all over the world, Spain, Canada, USA were an amazing group of people. Our goal was to get this hospital up and running like you would find in the States. We were on a roll and those that came after hopefully were able to follow those before to maintain and improve the health care these people received. I have never started IV's in the dirt with blowing winds from helicopters or the breeze that came up every night. Foleys placed with headlamps. Dressing changes that had to be timed as not to have too much dust blowing when you removed the dressing. Through their pain there were always smiles. I had to work at getting them sometimes, but once they came the white teeth showed and the smile was ear to ear. It seemed that once they smiled at you they remembered and smiled often. I carried medicine in my fanny pack so I was ready to medicate and try and keep the edge down for them. A touch helped and we were constantly holding hands and a stroke of a face, a touch on their shoulder or chest sometimes was the pain relief. All of their pain was not from the broken or missing limbs but from the terror of the quake. The knowledge that their whole family was killed, their sons and daughters were missing, or that they would never walk again from the spine injury they received when the ceilings came down on them.

Earthquakes

2010-01-29T05:47:00.000-08:00

While we were there we had an earthquake or aftershock each day. I think there was one day when we did not have some movement. The first one occurred towards afternoon, evening and I only really heard a sound as I was busy getting the people organized by room and name onto paper so we would have some kind of record who was in our area and names. I was in the last room when I heard a noise and a woman grab her son who had a full leg cast and possibly a broken pelvis and started dragging him out side. He was crying I thought from pain but I realized it was most likely from fear. Everyone had terror in their face and started grabbing their loved ones to get them outside, no matter the injuries all were dragged from the room. A man jumped from the second story of the building. I stood there with other nurses and doctors watching the scene. I felt the fear they had and imagined the big quake and what must of been felt that day. It brought tears to my eyes and we all just watched the commotion and the fear. As it was getting darker they had sheets up for some protection around their areas. They were very close together and started to sing. A whole group, a large group of people singing acapella the same song. It was something I just can not explain. We then with out head lamps went out and checked every single person to make sure they were not injured more and had their folder with them. I learned throughout the week that they were very good about keeping that folder near and close.

Getting it all together

2010-01-28T22:15:00.000-08:00

The leadership was amazing. Imagine coming to Mission with everyone and their family laying on mattresses on the ground the patient only having a card tired to them with a misspelled name and brief information about the injury. Now you have all these supplies coming with many people standing around wanting to help. You have hours to get it all together. We arrived after they started to "get it all together" I respect those that were there in the initial chaos and those that were trying to achieve some organization to the masses, be it the injured and the care givers. What an amazing group of doctors!

2010-01-28T08:28:00.000-08:00

The Children

2010-01-28T08:11:00.000-08:00

I saw so many children with injuries! They were casted with cuts, abrasions and amputations. Such suffering! They cried out as a child does and we did our best to comfort them. Some of them lost their parents in the quake and are now orphans. I was walking on evening to a secret bathroom (that was always a challenge for us) I saw a sweet little girl probably near two years old. She laughed and we played tagged. There was a bandage on her hand, which really did not phase me as many people and children had some kind of dressing or missing limb. I tried to ask the mother how old she was using my fingers. The mother proceeded to show me how many fingers and part of her hand she lost with her injury. I aknowledge that by touching her shoulder and then continued to run and play with her child. I wanted to grab her and take her with me to a safe place! The sweet little girl smiled and laugh not even caring about her injury at that time but to be a child and play with me. How grateful I was for that experience!

New Friends

2010-01-28T07:30:00.000-08:00

We made so many new friends! The other nurses were amazing. we all worked so well together and enjoyed each other's company. The Hatians were also amazing as when we got there there were not many smiles! As we cared and touched them and helped they improved and smiled, I think Jeanette was actually laughing at me most of the time as I tried to mimic her Creole. Her daughter Bridgette advanced so fast and was walking using crutches! (She had a broken pelvis) Mryline had such a big smile and a cell phone. She said she would call me! I am not sure how that will go and she spoke no English and I said my Creole is not! I love the phrase "Pa gen problem." No problem and used it frequently. Nadia and her neighbor Stephanie were our princesses and made us smile with their contagious smiles. They were in constant pain but smiled when they saw us and held our hands. Nadia love to kiss my hand and just hold it stroking my fingers. I took care of her after surgery and as she woke up she was praying to Jesus and reliving the trauma of the earthquake. She was on the stairs and lost her son and whole family to the quake. She cried and raised her arms and hands praying to Jesus and asking for mercy. I cried as she was coming out of sedation and held her. She said she had a book, a bible, it was her protection but could not find it. Stephanie t shared her bible with Nadia and you should of seen how she cherised that book, feeling it protection! Another woman next to Stephanie was trapped for five days and knew English well, which I did not know. I looked at her and told her how beautiful she was and she answered, "yes, I am beautiful." I laughed and enjoyed her answers to my statements of her beauty." All of these people were beautiful, inside as well as out. I had a sweet older lady, she had to be over 90, with a broken pelvis and she was blind with no family. When the people were inside the rooms of the orphanage building they all took care of each other no matter who they belonged to. I lost her in the mass exodus when the first aftershock occured and then lost her again in the chaos and commotion. I did find her to have no one taking care of her. She was by herself in a room with no one around. Allison an American nurse from Honduras sat next to her for hours trying to get her to eat and gave her fluids.

Rescue

2010-01-28T07:09:00.000-08:00

We happened to be down near the field when this helicopter took off. The man walking through the shot was a translator we had, Fabrice. He was great along with Kelly and Louis. The translators were needed and used day and night. I think they did not sleep much and were constantly being called from one pt to another. Kelly helped me so much, actually helping me turn and clean patients. These men were the heroes as well!

2010-01-28T06:54:00.000-08:00

Towards the end of the trip. We had many evacuations of children and the ones that needed a higher level of care. Helicopters landed daily to take these people out. I am sitting here and just heard a helicopter outside and my thoughts went immediatly back to those days when they would show up and we knew some would be able to get out. Many are still waiting for the trip out. Paraplegics those with spine injuries wait in the tent for a chance to be evacuated! Jim Keaney spoke to KFI's Bill Handle daily, reviewing what we found and what we were doing to help. The stories of the people each day touched our hearts and pulled at our emotions. Things were changing daily sometimes hourly and the military presence had to be kicked up a bit with incidences happening throught the compound. I never felt unsafe during my stay though. I just knew that it would be OK and kept doing what I had come to do, taking care of people who had suffered greatly just a week or so before we arrived.

Our Get Together After My Return From Jimini

2010-01-28T06:36:00.000-08:00

The best part is always coming home! We all went to CPK for my request of a salad! I enjoyed my family and the salad, grateful to live in such a beautiful area with such great blessings!

Humanitarian Trip

2010-01-19T07:01:00.000-08:00

I will be leaving tomorrow, Wed. with a group of nurses and doctors to help with the aide to Haiti. I am not sure what we will find. I will post when i return.

De Stuffing My Life, A journey from Over Abundance to Simplicity

2010-01-11T13:18:00.000-08:00

Gratefulness is the key to a happy life that we hold in our hands, because if we are not grateful, then no matter how much we have we will not be happy-----because we will always want to have something else or something more.
" Just one more thing and that will make me happy. If I get this it will make things easier and I will feel better."
My motto: Keep it Simple and I will add the stupid part to the end of that sentence as well. 2010 the new year and new goals. Many of us have so much stuff. I have to much stuff and I hope to de stuff my house and life this year. I do not want to spend the time taking care of the stuff, paying for the stuff, organizing the stuff. I really can get by, live with less stuff. I wish this epiphany came to me at least ten years ago, think of how much further i would be ahaead in my de stuffing goal. Today is always a good day to start and continue de stuffing.
A house full of stuff can be very depressing. A cluttered room saps one's spirits. One reason, obviously, is that there's less room for people in a room full of stuff. But there's more going on than that. I think humans constantly scan their environment to build a mental model of what's around them. And the harder a scene is to parse, the less energy you have left for conscious thoughts. A cluttered room is literally exhausting. Walk through the house and ask your self these questions, "Is it functional? Is it fulfilling to own? is it priceless?" Hey just found a place to sell DVD's, CD's, games called SECOND SPIN Trying to get all my CD's on my Ipod with back up so.....out the ones go that I do not want any longer. Hey I might even get a check in the mail!

New Year Resolutions

2009-12-28T21:34:00.000-08:00

Did you know it takes 21 days to establish a new habit.
That is 21 days of doing this new habit!
Brain circuits take engrams (memory traces), and produce
neuroconnections and neuropathways only if they are
bombarded for 21 days in a row. This means that our brain
does not accept new data for a change of habit unless
it is repeated each day for 21 days (without missing a day).

Top 10
1. Spend more time with family and friends
2. Fit in fitness
3. Tame the buldge
4. Quit smoking
5. Enjoy life more
6. Quit drinking
7. Get out of debt
8. Learn something new
9. Help others
10. Get organized
Just some food for thought!

Enjoy

2009-12-11T15:29:00.000-08:00

Turn off music on Blog before starting this clip. Scroll to the bottom to the playlist and turn off music.

Our New Grandson, Elijah

2009-12-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

Born today at 1:22 pm 7.5# 20 inches long.
Becky did great, Mike was so excited when he came out and I tried to capture the moment with pictures and a few "push, push, push encouragements!

Eli's coming!!!!

2009-12-03T07:08:00.000-08:00

Becky and Mike are in the hospital, waiting for the coming of Eli. We received the call early this morning that she is in labor. New post to follow.........

Christmas is coming!

2009-11-30T19:29:00.000-08:00

WOW! Thanksgiving is over the tree and Christmas decorations are up. The lights on the house are next. I feel behind though, as we celebrated Thanksgiving early because of Becky's due date and I am just getting it all done now. I should of had it done by now. Busy, Busy days. It will all get done and my favorite day is always tomorrow! I found a book as I unpacked the decorations, A Simple Christmas. This is going to be my motto this year: A simple Christmas. We need to focus on the spirit of Christmas!
I think of Martha: Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named aMartha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. Luke 10:38-42
I must remember to not be like Martha and get too carried away with all the activity of the season, the dinners, the gatherings. I must be like Mary and take the time, to sit and listen. To sit and enjoy the message.
Let us adore Him, let us rejoice! We can remember the simple birth of the Savior and give thanks for the miracle of His life. Let the season begin!

Medical Mission Trip 2010

2009-10-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

Again I am planning on heading to Egypt on a Medical Mission Trip. As many of you heard and saw my pictures from last years trip, what a worthwhile experience for all. There were four of us a physician, medical student and two nurses that braved the travel and headed to Egypt. We all worked hard and slept occasionally to help community leaders, physicians and people of the communities with instruction and service. I think the same group are planning to return along with me to continue with our efforts to educate, treat and increase intercultural understanding and develop partnerships with Americans and Egyptians. I am trying to make it easy for you to help me out financially for this worthwhile cause. If you can help me financially, even a small amount will be appreciated, thank you. I am ever so grateful. If you can not, I understand times are tough but will you please support me with your prayers.

Finally, lunch for Mark's birthday!

2009-09-26T16:08:00.001-07:00

Off we went today, up in the skies to Big Bear for lunch. I am still amazed that this metal device can actually fly! Even when I am in a 747 I am in awe! What a great thing it is to fly. It was a beautiful day, a little rough at times, but so fun! I think Mark got a bit queezy on the way back though. He won't forget this birthday gift!

Our friend Dave flew the plane and his grandson Nells came along for the ride!

Hiking at Whiting Ranch

2009-09-15T15:16:00.000-07:00

Malia had a great time in the carrier, she even took a nap!

Can you see the woodpecker? Gabe's favorite part was the dead lizard, such a boy. ( he even tried to smash it with his foot, yuk!

Pride and Hatred (turn off music at bottom of blog before watching)

2009-08-31T23:01:00.000-07:00

Heading Back To Egypt.......Medical Mission #2

2009-08-26T05:43:00.000-07:00

It is official. I am hoping to return to Egypt on my second medical mission in that area. Last year was such a great experience, I learned a lot about the needs of the women (we had a few men in our classes too) in their communities. I feel that I can bring more knowledge and help through education. We worked hard and still had fun with these sweet women, who are trying to better their communities and lifestyles for their families and the people of Egypt. There were long days, but the smiles and gratitude from these people made it feel so right to do this type of work. This investment in the people of this area is required to equip them with the skills necessary for the future success of the region. We will be working with CEOSS, a group in Egypt who's mission is to promote the sanctity, equity, and harmony of life. It seeks to contribute to the transformation of society by nurturing moral and spiritual awareness, enhancing a sense of belonging, promoting respect for diversity, addressing conflict, and advancing social justice for individuals and communities.

The mission of CEOSS is implemented according to the following major goals:
To improve the quality of life in impoverished communities
To empower communities and individuals with sustainable development
To promote a culture of dialogue based on pluralistic democratic approaches and respect for human rights
To promote religious and social enlightenment

Through HANDS, an organization that is committed to building bridges between the people of Egypt and the US. their programs of exchange and dialogue have helped create an environment in which democratic ideals can flourish and those susceptible to radical ideologies find peaceful and productive means of pursuing their life goals.
I truely beleive that this calling is something I have to do and I am grateful for the oportunity in my life right now to be able to do so. So thank you for your prayers and help to achieve this goal of returning to the communities in Egypt to further develop a relationship with the people of Egypt.

Time is free, but it's priceless.

2009-08-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

Time, we have it everyday, but we seem to run out of it so often. Well, now is the time for me to get back into a healthy lifestyle. I have been "dieting", really paying attention what goes into my mouth (still having trouble with what comes out of it though).
I am doing an organized bike ride in October in Arizona,(Tour de Scottsdale) so back in the saddle. I have a problem with my hip but it seems to be that surgery is the next step and I want to try and do everything to avoid this. I am hoping less weight on my bones and healthy eating and some stretching and PT, acupuncture can help to avoid this procedure. My time is mine. I love to share it and want to use it to be the best I can be!
Off I go.............

Thirty two years!

2009-08-14T21:23:00.000-07:00

It's our anniversary Sat, Aug 15th. I can not believe we have been married for 32 years. I remember some highlights from that day many years ago. Family and friends accompanied up to the courthouse, we forgot wedding rings so made do with rings we had on our fingers at the time. We then had a reception at a restaurant in Long Beach near the Queen Mary and then stayed on the Queen Mary before heading to Tahoe to camp for our honeymoon. ( it was a long drive for us and we were so tired). As we opened the equipment which we borrowed from Mark's parents, notes were tied to things, the hammer , the tent and in various places within the truck, again something we borrowed from Mark's parents. Each note had something witty about the item and about us written on them. We laughed as our campsite came together. Thanks Tom for doing that, it was perfect. We felt so special as a couple and three girls and almost five grandchildren later we still feel special.

Colorado July, 2009

2009-08-07T23:28:00.000-07:00

We headed off to our yearly adventur in Steamboat Springs this year in our Volkswagon, Eurovan. Mark had it all worked on and we packed it up, brought an extra family member (Maty our grand niece from Missouri) and we were on the road for our drive north. We heard some noises, but it wasn't bad they came and went, mostly went, so we listened to a book on tape and drove! Here are some pictures from Colorado and after this post will be a few more from Colorado along with soom from Albequerque, a place we ended up after dropping Maty off at Denver airport. Our van started making more noise and it was constant, so we drove to a dealer to see if they could help. (yes they did but had to order apart and it too three days for it to arrive.

Back Home!

2009-07-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

Home sweet home. I have not posted since May! My many travels have taken me from one end of the North american Continent to the other! Orange County to Newfoundland, Colorado, New Mexico and north to Alberta. I love to travel and have leaned that doing all the trips back to back is a bit more stressful as I came home pounded out some work and getting things done around home to run and catch a plane again. Next year I am going to space out my adventures! Here is a picture of the Newfoundland Coast as I hiked the East Coast Trail.

Make a tote

2009-05-31T06:43:00.000-07:00

I found this cute and easy tote bag directions. I am going to make some. I really should "catch up" on my sewing that is sitting on my sewing desk, but these look so cute and easy I have to whip out a few!
Click here for directions

Seasonal allergies?

2009-05-25T21:21:00.000-07:00

FOR FULL ARTICLE CLICK HERE
Here is something that I think totally helps with sinus problems, colds or any upper airway problems. It really works and helps to cut down on symptoms. I have a Neti Pot and have been using it for some time now. Check out the article and decide for yourself. You can even pick them up at CVS!

Hog Heaven!

2009-05-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

Mark is in hog heaven for sure!

Mark came home today with his newest toy! He is so excited about getting a Harley.He has a BIG birthday this year and this is the gift. Now for the comfy back rest (wrap around) for me so I can actually fall asleep back there and not fall off.

2009-05-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

SOLAR POWER

I love hanging the clothes on the line. How great they smell. I washed all my bed linen and getting into bed last night was heaven!

Why not take advantage of the free solar and wind energy available in your back yard, help reduce the dependence on oil and gas, lead the way and feel better by doing your bit to reduce carbon emissions and help prevent climate change and improve the environment for the next generations to follow.

This sounds like a commercial but it is so perfect. I get to be outside in my yard as I hang my clothes enjoying the plants too!

Bike to work week!

2009-05-12T22:25:00.001-07:00

Well, it is "bike to work week." I have decided to get back on the bike! I have ridden everyday this week. We have had such beautiful weather as well.

Tomorrow I will be officially riding to work. The last few days have just been riding. So, if you can get on your bike. Save the world!

Swine Flu.....

2009-04-29T05:31:00.000-07:00

Just thought you might like to read this article regarding the Swine flu "pandemic". I have not got a flu shot and do not plan to ever! CLICK HERE for related article. Just keep yourself healthy, diet and exercise plays a very important role in this.

Back from Egypt!

2009-04-22T08:26:00.000-07:00

I have returned! It was a good trip. I am finally getting my jet lag in check and not soooo tired at 2pm. I actually make it to 9pm before I just have to go to bed. I do wake early though! I have put my pics on my website. CLICK HERE TO VIEW

Why should you care about pesticides?

2009-03-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

Eating healthy is all about fruits and vegetables as we know. CLICK HERE to go to a site with a printable guide to use when you are at the market. Times are tough and all of us need to watch our pennies. Not all veggies have to be organic (it usually costs more to have the same fruit ot vegetable with out the pesticide, although I never understood why buying something with less cost more? I am sure it has to do with subsidized farmers...another discussion for later.) Use the guide when you are at the store.

Strawberries are coming into season (check out South Coast Farms for the best, yummy and organic ones!) they are my number one to always buy organic. There are over seven types of pesticides used on these yummy fruits, topical and systemic. Carrots, apples, lettuce (anything green leafy), cherries, grapes, stone fruits, heck I do try and buy everything organic. Just use the guide to make you choice if you want to buy the non organic ones. Happy shopping!

DID YOU KNOW?

2009-03-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Check out this video..don't forget to turn off the play listat the bottom of my blog as this has music in the back round.

PMP...Pink Monster Party

2009-03-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

Malia turned ONE! We had a great Pink Monster Party here at Gramy's house. She came all dressed in pink with a special shirt made by the monster's mommy, Mrs. Jones. Monster Pita sandwhiches, Monster Punch, you get the idea! It was a beautiful sunny California day but a bit chilly. On with the sweaters and we were outside in Gramy's yard! CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ALBUM

Great TJ'S video!

2009-02-27T07:30:00.000-08:00

CLICK HERE

My friend's journey/ my patients journey

2009-02-25T06:16:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox photobook

Don't forget to turn off the music on the blog prior to opening this because there is great music on this creation as well.
This is what I do at work!

Lunch with Karen and Susan!

2009-02-21T22:20:00.000-08:00

WOW! That is all I have to say, WOW! To see Karen walking over to the group at the "Center" was a joy that can not be described. Karen was in the hospital at Mission with a brain aneurysm. Watching her get to this point has reminded me that what the doctors, nurses, resp. therapy, and the whole team at Mission Hospital do for these kind of patients. The smile on Karen's face, her great "one liners" are such a joy to see and hear. Susan has been there for her through it all. What a great friend and companion. We all should have someone like that in out lives. I sat there listening to Karen and Susan's friends talk about Karen's journey as people who work at the Center walked by and came over to say hello. How cool that I get to be in their lives. OK, it's gardening with Laurie and Karen next!

Dinner at Tom's

2009-02-18T05:30:00.001-08:00

Just a few pictures from a night over at Tom's house. Susie is in town and we had dinner, chicken noodle soup (without the noodles), pasta, bread and salad. A few (ok a bunch) of bite size cupcakes too! Look closely at Helen, she is smiling. She really does smile, it is just hard to capture that in a photo. Happy Feb.
Oh, the eye, that is Matrte, she had a little mishap. She is fine, just a bit bruised!

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

2009-02-05T23:29:00.000-08:00

We just returned from BC, Canada. Staying with Willi and Jackson as always, was perfect. What yummy breakfasts and dinners we had courtesy of Willi. Mark and I headed up to Whistler with Jackson for some good 'ol Canadian skiing. The B&B in Pemberton was, as always, perfect as well. Margit outdid herself with lots of food for breakfast and dinner (something new she is doing at her B&B). We went to our usual 'night out' at Wildwood and had a great time listening to stories and just hanging out! The weather cooperated and we had sunny days for our skiing!

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE PICS! All photos by Mark Roberts

2009-01-27T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from the Gala I attended for work in December. It was a great dinner and the band they had was like a broadway production with props! We all had a great time.
CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE PICS

2009-01-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

Well, it is the Chinese New Year of the OX. I looked up my horoscope for this year of the Ox, for me, born in the year of the rat. The RAT!!! I can't escape this rat thing! I am still keeping my eye on everything in the garage and NO rats have returned. It is all clear but I still have nightmares and still trying to get all the "stuff" I took out of it's place in the loft, put away. It is a long drawn out job.
My outlook for 2009 looks good, so maybe this rat thing is a good thing after all. I will have to avoid over-committing, something that I do have to work on, so good advice. So, for the persistent and conscientious rat, the rewards of the year can prove substantial!

In My Daughter's Eyes/ For my little girls! (Turn off the music on the blog site,on the playlist gadget below, to listen to the video)

2009-01-24T07:23:00.000-08:00

Hanging out in January, temps in the 70-80's

2009-01-14T20:52:00.000-08:00

What a fun day last week when we all went to the Santa Ana Zoo. The zoo has changed since I went last and I think that Gabe really enjoyed himself.

We saw a lot of monkeys and rode a train and merry-go-round. I didn't get a picture but we saw two of the biggest pigs I have ever seen. I later learned from a lady at the Corner Bakery where we had lunch in Tustin that the two pigs are smaller than they were, they have been on a diet. We sat next to a couple and the man was the director of the Santa Ana Zoo!

Then on Monday, very last minute for me. Tanner ( the little guy I babysit) and I headed to Disneyland to meet the Jones and Haddad families. CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS

New Year and a trip to Big Bear!

2009-01-05T14:00:00.000-08:00

We are back from a trip to the "cabin in the woods." (a place where the gnomes live) We have some friends who always make us feel welcome at their cabin in the woods. We had a lot of fun "hanging out", eating and taking long morning walks, as well as some extreme sledding at nearby Bow Canyon. Enjoy the pics! CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS

A babysitting day!

2008-12-29T18:32:00.000-08:00

I babysit on Mondays and today I had Gabe, Malia and Tanner. (I usually have Tanner or the twins but I had the grandkids because Mrs. Jones, their mom was getting their official name at the social security office today. (THEY ARE OFFICIAL JONES' NOW) They all had fun this morning getting used to each other and I snapped a few photos. I sent the Tanner story to his mom Megan but thought I would put Gabe's story by photos here on my blog. Tun off the music on my blog (see the bottom of the blog to hit the stop button) as there is music on the little slide show. If you don't you will be playing both at the same time..yucky!

2008-12-27T22:05:00.001-08:00

I felt the need to post this small slide show. See below. Enjoy and turn off the music on my blog because there is music on the slide show.

Christmas Poem

2008-12-26T14:47:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house

Creatures are stirring, including a mouse (actually it is a rat in the garage)

Though Laurie is nestled all snug in her bed (with cute Christmas linens)

She can't get the pesky rat out of her head.

She is learning about traps and how to place the cheese (or peanutbutter)

Laurie would sure love to get him, as you can see!

We had a good year

With some travel abroad

Mark was gone frequently to Ireland, London and Prague

(It was France but Prague rhymed better)

We stayed with my cousins

To Egypt we flew

When we got off the plane we exclaimed, "Peeuw!"

(In Egypt they are burning the sugar cane fields in October, very smoky and stinky)

The smoke gave a luster to lights all around

We waited for Mohammed to take us through town

When what to our wondering eyes should appear

But minarets in the sky with the sound of good cheer

(it was the call to prayer, broadcast from speakers on all minarets five times a day)

The pyramids, the temples and tombs we did see

Coming back to my cousins in Maadi for some rest and some tea

We look forward to next year

What will be in store?

Some travel and family get togethers

Who could ask for anything more?

2008-12-26T09:53:00.000-08:00

Well, It is the day after Christmas and all through the house are messes from the holidays as I sit here and play with my mouse. The computer is plugged in and picture slide shows I make. I need to get up because my butt is flat as a pancake.

Ok check out all the pics and have fun. The Gnome's vacations slides are great (click n music Gnomes from down below to play while you are watching this slide show)) and we are hoping that they get back up to Big Bear soon, as they miss their cabin home! If you think about it and do not know the story of the gnomes, ask me. I will fill you in on the adventures of these cute garden guys.

2008-12-25T13:55:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas, and Mark and I are sitting here working on the computer getting our pictures organized. Look for my scrapbook of pics from Christmas Eve. We woke up early this morning, went to mass at St. Killians and then breakfast at Harbor House in Dana Point. I should of taken a picture of the bowl of oatmeal we all ordered. It was a tureen of the stuff and we each (Jen, Laurie and Mark) got one. It is raining outside so we are trapped in the house. Not bad, I actually got to take a nap! I have found out that some of you are not keen on my quote usage, well.....too bad. I like it and it stays! Now the count down until the new year..........

White Elephant

2008-12-22T05:24:00.001-08:00

Don't forget the White Elephant gift for Wed. night, Bring a gift you have received or have around the house for our game (if you want to participate). It is a lot of fun!

Christmas at the Roberts House

2008-12-21T15:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve. Come one, come all! We will be having Christmas Eve dinner at our house on, you guessed it, the 24th of December. Come on over around 4:00 pm. Treats and yummy food with our usual gift opening extravaganza. Let's take out time this year to actually see what everyone has received!

Christmas if forever, not just for one day,

for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away

like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.

The good you do for others is good you do yourself....

Norman Wesley Brooks

Time is free, but it's priceless.

2008-12-20T09:09:00.000-08:00

It is about four days until Christmas. How time can fly! I know that as a young girl I could not wait until Christmas or summer or a fun trip that was planned. It seemed so long until that day would come. Now it comes so fast and it is over before you know.

Are these the ponderings of an "older" woman?

2008-12-15T22:18:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is: The Roberts' blog. I am giving up on the web site and trying my hand at this. I want to keep all of you guessing to what is next in my adventures on the web and keep up with the Jones!