Matching scarves :)
All the crazy kids... 
The whole family!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Christmas 2010
Here's some fun Christmas photos from this year :) 
Matching scarves :)
All the crazy kids...
The whole family!
Matching scarves :) All the crazy kids... The whole family!
MY YOUNGEST SISTER JANALYN
To my dear sister Jana; here is my memory of you. I may not get everything so bear with me. My goodness, a sister at 15. You are so Saturday's Warrior but no rebellion or drama just love and who gets to hold you next! I remember dad taking care of you when mom had to work. You couldn't go wrong there. How did he dress you? Okay who did your hair? Why sis, what talent you have! Did you ride the bus? Did you like school? Can we say every wonderful minute? Okay... I do remember when you took dancing and gymnastics. I do remember your kind service when you baby sat my kids. I remember the Miss Clinton pageant like it was yesterday. When you sang "Spanish Eyes" you looked and sang like an angel. I remember your wedding it was very pretty all night, the perfect rainy day at the temple. I remember all your schooling to become a nurse. What dedication you have. I have always loved the medical profession but since my diagnosis, it's a deeper love and humble respect for them. I remember when you let us make a quilt in your big family room. How you graciously held family parties in that room year after year! I remember every child you brought into this world. Your husband working hard and you working allot with those cute newborns. [someone had to do it] right sis? I'm glad you have your current job and you love it!
I remember your hips going bad and your operations to replace them. So sorry you had to go through that. I found out just how much you like ice-skating. Brianna ice-skating is one thing that makes me believe, but sitting there watching on your computer while your sister sat in the other room and watched the BYU game, that tells me you love ice-skating! But you also love your family, your wonderful husband and kids, your young woman who you serve every week. And your heavenly Father. I know you love the church. I will reluctantly close with my love. dear sister, thanks again for all you do. Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
I remember your hips going bad and your operations to replace them. So sorry you had to go through that. I found out just how much you like ice-skating. Brianna ice-skating is one thing that makes me believe, but sitting there watching on your computer while your sister sat in the other room and watched the BYU game, that tells me you love ice-skating! But you also love your family, your wonderful husband and kids, your young woman who you serve every week. And your heavenly Father. I know you love the church. I will reluctantly close with my love. dear sister, thanks again for all you do. Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
MY YOUNGER SISTER MARILYN
Hello there my dear wonderful sister Marilyn;
this is your memory letter from me. You have already gone down memory lane so bear with me.
I believe we slept in trundle beds Marilyn. I remember how great you were with our horse, Lady. We loved that horse. We had so much fun on her. I remember Mr. Shupe teaching you the violin. Do you remember walking to primary from school every Tuesday? How our wonderful teachers taught us to crochet, knit and cross-stitching this pillow that says "I Will Bring the light of the Gospel into my Home". Did you like our school bus driver Clod Drayer; who was our first boss, because we worked in the bean patch? Was Mrs. Mitchell your favorite teacher in elementary school. I remember trick or treatment there. I was so sad when she left this world.
I remember you stayed in music in junior high school and sang with Mr. Davis in private lessons. I remember an assembly where you sang "The Sounds of Silence ". That's my sister up there! Wow it rocked my senses. Do you remember the Christmas where Jerry and Stanley were gone on their mission or was it Stanley and Roger? Mom just told me how she kept Roger out of the military so he could serve a mission.
Remember our cool old church that was built in 1912? Just visiting there after it was renovated was weird to me. Our chapel was gone! Just like our hospital we were born, our North Davis Junior High we attended, all gone. Just our memory is still there.
Did you enjoy your mission to Alabama? Did you enjoy your six years at BYU? I know the answer is yes, every wonderful minute. Dad was so proud and such a BYU fan. The games he took us to were so fun and priceless. Brian and I are still fans.
Your musical talent inspired Brian and I to sing in the ward and Stake choirs. Your wonderful ideas helped Brian and I to have some great and wonderful ward Christmas parties for three years! My only regret there was not delegating enough. I'm worn-out just thinking of it! I don't know how mom does it!
Well sis, I hope you know I love you, it's been great having you for a sister. I know I was a bratty sister in our teenage years and I hope you can forgive me. Can't get mushy because it makes me cry and it just proves the two heavy meds I get don't stop the tears. I believe adequate sleep and rest is the best medicine.
I know how active you are in tennis and what your kids play. So sorry your knee went bad. No fun there.
Softball isn't the same today as it was when we played. But we didn't play on high school teams like Mandee Lue did. I think our experience was much more fun playing for Clinton and Sunset City. I'm glad we got to play ball together. I also had fun playing coed with Brian, Karen, Roger, and Jerry at some point. It was fun until I was thirty. Time to let the kids take over. Danny has been playing softball for most of his adult life. Scott has also but his hips bother him now. Mandee is more into hiking with her husband Scott. Tarra and Daniel are into Karate! Ahhh the injuries! [ankles, Achilles, black eyes, etc] time for crutches.
Last but not least your CD. Thanks so much for your beautiful voice. I remember when you sang 'Where is Heaven' in my old ward and my heart just melted, and my bishop's eyes were moist also. Remember my two funeral songs are the 1st and 2nd tunes on your CD.
Thank you for your strong testimony. for loving our 'Savior'. I will reluctantly close now. Love you dear sister, Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
this is your memory letter from me. You have already gone down memory lane so bear with me.
I believe we slept in trundle beds Marilyn. I remember how great you were with our horse, Lady. We loved that horse. We had so much fun on her. I remember Mr. Shupe teaching you the violin. Do you remember walking to primary from school every Tuesday? How our wonderful teachers taught us to crochet, knit and cross-stitching this pillow that says "I Will Bring the light of the Gospel into my Home". Did you like our school bus driver Clod Drayer; who was our first boss, because we worked in the bean patch? Was Mrs. Mitchell your favorite teacher in elementary school. I remember trick or treatment there. I was so sad when she left this world.
I remember you stayed in music in junior high school and sang with Mr. Davis in private lessons. I remember an assembly where you sang "The Sounds of Silence ". That's my sister up there! Wow it rocked my senses. Do you remember the Christmas where Jerry and Stanley were gone on their mission or was it Stanley and Roger? Mom just told me how she kept Roger out of the military so he could serve a mission.
Remember our cool old church that was built in 1912? Just visiting there after it was renovated was weird to me. Our chapel was gone! Just like our hospital we were born, our North Davis Junior High we attended, all gone. Just our memory is still there.
Did you enjoy your mission to Alabama? Did you enjoy your six years at BYU? I know the answer is yes, every wonderful minute. Dad was so proud and such a BYU fan. The games he took us to were so fun and priceless. Brian and I are still fans.
Your musical talent inspired Brian and I to sing in the ward and Stake choirs. Your wonderful ideas helped Brian and I to have some great and wonderful ward Christmas parties for three years! My only regret there was not delegating enough. I'm worn-out just thinking of it! I don't know how mom does it!
Well sis, I hope you know I love you, it's been great having you for a sister. I know I was a bratty sister in our teenage years and I hope you can forgive me. Can't get mushy because it makes me cry and it just proves the two heavy meds I get don't stop the tears. I believe adequate sleep and rest is the best medicine.
I know how active you are in tennis and what your kids play. So sorry your knee went bad. No fun there.
Softball isn't the same today as it was when we played. But we didn't play on high school teams like Mandee Lue did. I think our experience was much more fun playing for Clinton and Sunset City. I'm glad we got to play ball together. I also had fun playing coed with Brian, Karen, Roger, and Jerry at some point. It was fun until I was thirty. Time to let the kids take over. Danny has been playing softball for most of his adult life. Scott has also but his hips bother him now. Mandee is more into hiking with her husband Scott. Tarra and Daniel are into Karate! Ahhh the injuries! [ankles, Achilles, black eyes, etc] time for crutches.
Last but not least your CD. Thanks so much for your beautiful voice. I remember when you sang 'Where is Heaven' in my old ward and my heart just melted, and my bishop's eyes were moist also. Remember my two funeral songs are the 1st and 2nd tunes on your CD.
Thank you for your strong testimony. for loving our 'Savior'. I will reluctantly close now. Love you dear sister, Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
MY OLDER SISTER KAREN
Hey sister Karen, growing up with you was great. I don't even remember arguing with you. But I do remember how you helped me drive those push button cars. How we got stuck on the old wooden bridge and we either panicked or whatever but it's etched in my mind. I remember you in high school and your kind example you set. Getting most modest award when mini skirts were the craze.
I remember you letting me chum with you and Mary Ann Nelson, Luanne Nelson, and Andrea Child. My favorite TV show was Dark Shadows and we watched it with Mary Ann.
I remember you asking me to be nicer to Marilyn in high school and it is one of the things I truly regret.
Do you remember all the cool records we would listen to? My favorites were Gene Autry, Herb Albert, and we wore out the Sleeping Beauty record and the cool pictures. Did you enjoy working for Clod Drayer, our bus driver?
Do you remember the family vacations? Yellowstone, the Uintahs, Grand Canyon or Dead Horse point. When did dad leave you? I remember you sipping that pop when we pulled up.
Do you remember the walks from school to primary every Tuesday? Do you remember the kind primary teachers that taught us to crochet and knit? We also filled up our bandalos with jewels and awards. And the cross-stitch pillow?
Thanks for the kind words at our support group you said about playing softball together, I enjoyed playing with you on the teams also.
How much karate do you remember? Your niece Tarra can give you a few reminders. Her and Daniel go religiously every week.
Did you enjoy your mission to Holland? The pretty stuff in moms glass cupboard reminds me of your service there. The trek from New York to home in dad's truck and trailer must have been priceless in great memories.
I must admit, I really liked Bruce Dodenbier, he was a great gospel doctrine teacher and neighbor. I still remember him kneeling in my backyard planting sod for us we got from a park.
I remember floating the river with you without Brian. Its embedded because we sang the little canoe song and it was peaceful and beautiful.
Loved watching you sing 'Santa baby'. And later the countless choirs you and Gene sang in. I think we both love music.
And last but not least the motorcycle affairs. What were you thinking? HA HA. Brian and I were planning to join the Temple Rider's Club. Maybe it's not too late for him as long as I don't wear him out first. Ride safely dear sister. Sorry we didn't get to ride together, I would have liked that.
Well it's getting late and I want to close this letter with my love. So many memories. My brain is tired. I'm happy now. No more stress! Yeah
Remember all the temple sessions we did, so thankful for that. So thankful for your testimony. you are a great example! Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
I remember you letting me chum with you and Mary Ann Nelson, Luanne Nelson, and Andrea Child. My favorite TV show was Dark Shadows and we watched it with Mary Ann.
I remember you asking me to be nicer to Marilyn in high school and it is one of the things I truly regret.
Do you remember all the cool records we would listen to? My favorites were Gene Autry, Herb Albert, and we wore out the Sleeping Beauty record and the cool pictures. Did you enjoy working for Clod Drayer, our bus driver?
Do you remember the family vacations? Yellowstone, the Uintahs, Grand Canyon or Dead Horse point. When did dad leave you? I remember you sipping that pop when we pulled up.
Do you remember the walks from school to primary every Tuesday? Do you remember the kind primary teachers that taught us to crochet and knit? We also filled up our bandalos with jewels and awards. And the cross-stitch pillow?
Thanks for the kind words at our support group you said about playing softball together, I enjoyed playing with you on the teams also.
How much karate do you remember? Your niece Tarra can give you a few reminders. Her and Daniel go religiously every week.
Did you enjoy your mission to Holland? The pretty stuff in moms glass cupboard reminds me of your service there. The trek from New York to home in dad's truck and trailer must have been priceless in great memories.
I must admit, I really liked Bruce Dodenbier, he was a great gospel doctrine teacher and neighbor. I still remember him kneeling in my backyard planting sod for us we got from a park.
I remember floating the river with you without Brian. Its embedded because we sang the little canoe song and it was peaceful and beautiful.
Loved watching you sing 'Santa baby'. And later the countless choirs you and Gene sang in. I think we both love music.
And last but not least the motorcycle affairs. What were you thinking? HA HA. Brian and I were planning to join the Temple Rider's Club. Maybe it's not too late for him as long as I don't wear him out first. Ride safely dear sister. Sorry we didn't get to ride together, I would have liked that.
Well it's getting late and I want to close this letter with my love. So many memories. My brain is tired. I'm happy now. No more stress! Yeah
Remember all the temple sessions we did, so thankful for that. So thankful for your testimony. you are a great example! Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
MY BROTHER ROGER
My dear brother Roger; here is my memories of you! My memory of you goes way back! I was more emotional with you because you teased me really lot. I so remember that old coin I found. I wish that I would have given that to you. So sorry you lost your coin collection. Of course I remember all my brothers hauling hay, milking cows, working in the garden, we shucked alot of corn, peeled alot of potatoes. I remember your tanned body walking home from working for Jay Child, carrying a shovel over your bare shoulder. I remember you made the best french fries! And popcorn! Very good stuff! I remember getting measles with you and we watched The Wizard of Oz together. You bought me a necklace when I got a bad earache. I can still see it in my mind. You were fun to watch in sports. Dad would take me to alot of your ball games. My last softball team I was on was with you! I was somewhat burned out but I still had a love for the game. It was good for me, thanks for that. I remember when you left on your mission to England. I cried, I admit it. When you came home mom was pregnant with Janalyn. I remember your wedding even though it was long time ago. Wow my brother Roger tied the knot! And with a great girl like Jill! I remember your first home in Riverdale, Utah and your first home in Clinton, Utah. Such an active brother, you love nature just like your brothers. Your mailman job goes way back. I remember you delivered mail to where I worked at Marveon sign company on Riverdale road in 1976.
I remember your love of music. If the piano wan't being played, the stereo was.
We watched you and Jill raise four great kids. It was so much fun having diners with your family throughout all the holidays and family gatherings any time of the year. Your my only Army brother; what a great career move for you. I hope you are glad its over. I'm sure it doesn't slow you down any! I remember when you got decked at a basketball game. It was bad enough it required surgery on your cheekbones and eye. Such a stressful time for you but I feel you have put it behind you because I remember all the jokes and laughing about that crazy day in court with Jill. I remember driving to Hyram to tell Stanley what happened. It shook up the whole family.
Last but far from least, I remember your great talks in church. Your mission was a great seed for your strong testimony I see today. Your service in the church goes back a long time. My mind can only think of one statement. "Well done my good and faithful servant". I see more service and callings in your future. May you enjoy retirement one day, Roger Lafe Fisher. Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
I remember your love of music. If the piano wan't being played, the stereo was.
We watched you and Jill raise four great kids. It was so much fun having diners with your family throughout all the holidays and family gatherings any time of the year. Your my only Army brother; what a great career move for you. I hope you are glad its over. I'm sure it doesn't slow you down any! I remember when you got decked at a basketball game. It was bad enough it required surgery on your cheekbones and eye. Such a stressful time for you but I feel you have put it behind you because I remember all the jokes and laughing about that crazy day in court with Jill. I remember driving to Hyram to tell Stanley what happened. It shook up the whole family.
Last but far from least, I remember your great talks in church. Your mission was a great seed for your strong testimony I see today. Your service in the church goes back a long time. My mind can only think of one statement. "Well done my good and faithful servant". I see more service and callings in your future. May you enjoy retirement one day, Roger Lafe Fisher. Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
MY NEXT BROTHER STANLEY
My dear brother Stanley; here is my memories of you. Wow, my first memory is when I was six or seven. You were a very quiet and reserved brother; you were also very persuasive because you talked me into biting an onion!! I remember how much you loved our horse, Lady. I believe you taught me to ride her because after all my falls, something in me was putting me back on her. Even after mom took me to a chiropractor because I walked funny. Even after going head first off that horse and broke my arm.! At 10 or so your nice friend Dean Hill let me ride his horse one day. He let me ride this tan colored stallion on the field across from our home. I remember to never ask again for that stallion had more power than Lady! Did you enjoy school? [Utah State] Did you enjoy scouting? I believe the answer is yes ecause I remember your work with leather. Such talent. And I remember your piano playing was mild and very good! Did you love sports? I'm sure you did because you turned to refereeing for a spell. When you brought your bride to be to our home, Carol was loved immediately. I remember your wedding like it was yesterday, okay some. We wore blue and it was very pretty. Carol was a great role model. I remember
your house in Hyram, Utah. It was always fun to visit. It was great watching as you and Carol raised five awesome children, and along comes grandkids! As you and Carol accepted callings, rode bicycles, enjoyed the outdoors, and served the Lord. When you moved to Idaho it was a little traumatic for mom and me. But we soon learned you were in a great place. After all, we were married in Malad, Idaho! Brian's relatives are all over Idaho. We so love Idaho potatoes! Thank you for your forgiveness, it is very humbling. Now we remember your dear son who passed away two months after our father. With sincere reverence I bring myself back to the funeral. Your testimony about the Book of Mormon ' will be forever etched in my mind. The
ride to the cemetery is also. What grand respect I felt for Matthew. I think I told you about the ride home that day. How we got a flat tire right by the Malad exit. How we looked for and found an old friend there by the name of Grant Hielson. Grant was an older gentleman from our ward that served on the high council. He was known for his witty poems he would recite with his talks. That day as we visited he bore a strong testimony of this book called 'The Message '. Well you know the rest because I told you about it when we were RVing at the Camper World in Coalville, Utah. That's when you told me the author lived in Idaho Falls and that you heard him speak. Thanks again for being a great brother. Your example to me is very humbling and I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is true and I know the Book of Mormon is true. My favorite scripture is the last verse in 'Enos' Love you brother; Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
your house in Hyram, Utah. It was always fun to visit. It was great watching as you and Carol raised five awesome children, and along comes grandkids! As you and Carol accepted callings, rode bicycles, enjoyed the outdoors, and served the Lord. When you moved to Idaho it was a little traumatic for mom and me. But we soon learned you were in a great place. After all, we were married in Malad, Idaho! Brian's relatives are all over Idaho. We so love Idaho potatoes! Thank you for your forgiveness, it is very humbling. Now we remember your dear son who passed away two months after our father. With sincere reverence I bring myself back to the funeral. Your testimony about the Book of Mormon ' will be forever etched in my mind. The
ride to the cemetery is also. What grand respect I felt for Matthew. I think I told you about the ride home that day. How we got a flat tire right by the Malad exit. How we looked for and found an old friend there by the name of Grant Hielson. Grant was an older gentleman from our ward that served on the high council. He was known for his witty poems he would recite with his talks. That day as we visited he bore a strong testimony of this book called 'The Message '. Well you know the rest because I told you about it when we were RVing at the Camper World in Coalville, Utah. That's when you told me the author lived in Idaho Falls and that you heard him speak. Thanks again for being a great brother. Your example to me is very humbling and I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is true and I know the Book of Mormon is true. My favorite scripture is the last verse in 'Enos' Love you brother; Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
MY OLDEST BROTHER JERRY
My dear brother Jerry, this is my memories letter of you! Wow that's kinda hard because my first memory of you is when you left on your mission to Brazil. All the neat letters mom read and the cool picture slides you took. I remember when you spoke in church when you got back, and I remember that it went a little long! I remember you didn't like the book I was reading when I was about 15. Yes it was a romance novel; promise I grew out of that phase. I remember you trying to help Brian and I when we had financial trouble. I remember you dating a lot but never married until an angel named Lorraine came along. I think I can name all your professions; a guard at the state prison, a parole officer, a year in Mexico, a year in Korea. I remember a letter I got from you there. It was the year President Hunter passed away and Bishop Edgley spoke at a conference in Korea. He explained how the mantle changed to President Hinkley in almost the same way as President Brigham Young did. I know this because of our great grandmother Irene Garner Fisher; who wrote almost the same words when she was nine years old. The letter from you, Jerry, is so spiritual and so special to me. I remember you living in Salt Lake city. How you enjoy the city and all the perks, HEY DUMPSTER DIVING IS COOL; IT WAS ON OPRAH! You have been helping mom and dad for years, through the good times and not so good. Thank you for loving my salsa; for your great appetite for good nutritional foods. Love your willingness to serve. To share your talents with others. Thank you for sharing your love of nature and watching our feathered friends. For sharing your love of traveling through your great pictures and fun stories. Thank you for your love of family; for taking mom, nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters to shows, theaters, and church functions. For your love of genealogy and our great ancestors!
And now you are an investment counselor. This job fits you perfectly because you learned what all your siblings did. STAY OUT OF DEBT! you are nearing the age of retirement. No problem there, retirement rocks! I remember when you needed and finally went under the knife for new hips. This life changing operation set you back a spell. But I was in awe as you struggled and worked those legs to walk and even hike with me clear up Adams Canyon! You even river rafted at Flaming Gorge with us! You rock!! Thank you for sharing your testimony and the fascinating stories around the dinner table; for your love of the scriptures and learning through church classes. For loving the gospel. May you always have peace of mind and love for our Savior, my brother Jerry Ronald Fisher.
Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
And now you are an investment counselor. This job fits you perfectly because you learned what all your siblings did. STAY OUT OF DEBT! you are nearing the age of retirement. No problem there, retirement rocks! I remember when you needed and finally went under the knife for new hips. This life changing operation set you back a spell. But I was in awe as you struggled and worked those legs to walk and even hike with me clear up Adams Canyon! You even river rafted at Flaming Gorge with us! You rock!! Thank you for sharing your testimony and the fascinating stories around the dinner table; for your love of the scriptures and learning through church classes. For loving the gospel. May you always have peace of mind and love for our Savior, my brother Jerry Ronald Fisher.
Love Colleen Joyce Fisher Chatterton
Thursday, December 30, 2010
DECEMBER MEMORIES 2010
Hello there awesome family! I decided that it was so much fun doing those memory letters I decided to write more. I so enjoyed being together on Christmas Eve with everyone at Janalyns home! It was great just watching everyone enjoying it also. Mom gave me a little slush, yummy.
I'm officially paranoid of showers now! I don't care if I never get one again! It's not Brian, he does a great job! I just don't feel secure in that chair yet. Last shower was Monday night, and it didn't go well at all. It left me in tears so long I begged Brian for tranquilizers! I just don't like being naked and I don't like showers anymore. I'm going to insist on a priesthood blessing and some meds before any shower again. I don't care if I stink, stank, or stunk ed. watched the Grinch few times
Other than that life is great! So much to be thankful for! My two puppies are wigging out right now, they love us; mostly they love Brian. Brian gets my morning meds every day, night and in between. He even gives me a litte chocolate. He makes life simple for me. I get to stare at a computer all day! But I get to listen to Pandora radio and write in my blog. Hospice is still coming 4 days a week and they get a B plus. Maybe it's because they don't stay long enough to get an A. I'm very good at delegating. Hah hah. My ALS is slowly taking my left arm and hand. But this computer mouse is still clicking away. I even got addicted to the game 'hearts', but writing is more fun! Who knew..Brian can even edit so it sounds better! I knew...
Christmas was great this year, nice tree that our two toddlers wouldn't leave alone so just cloth ornaments, nothing glass. But it was just great watching them open gifts. And it was great having family come and go. I spent the last week before Christmas writing memory letters to you siblings. Brian had to buy a new printer just to get them ready. But the most fun for me is when all our granddaughters, all five of them sat around my kitchen table making picture place mats. We just gave each one a bunch of pictures of themselves. They glued, put stickers, ect. On color paper, then it got laminated with contact paper. I believe you guessed I like crafts. Especially scrap booking with glue and a pen. I missed that craze where you go all out. My daughter Mandee redid allot of my old pictures. You could say they went 'acid free'. Favorite gift for sure!
Brian is off this week. You will have to ask him how it went, staying home with me. I love it because he gets all rested up. He took me to SLC to get new tires on my chair yesterday! The old tires were getting so worn out.
As soon as I got home I could tell the difference! Very smooth just like a Lexus should be! Right now he went shopping for a new cushion for my tush. Ahh life is good! Oh shoot, not Epsom salts. again? good-bye now got date with Mr. Baa-day! LOVE COLLEEN JOYCE FISHER CHATTERTON
I'm officially paranoid of showers now! I don't care if I never get one again! It's not Brian, he does a great job! I just don't feel secure in that chair yet. Last shower was Monday night, and it didn't go well at all. It left me in tears so long I begged Brian for tranquilizers! I just don't like being naked and I don't like showers anymore. I'm going to insist on a priesthood blessing and some meds before any shower again. I don't care if I stink, stank, or stunk ed. watched the Grinch few times
Other than that life is great! So much to be thankful for! My two puppies are wigging out right now, they love us; mostly they love Brian. Brian gets my morning meds every day, night and in between. He even gives me a litte chocolate. He makes life simple for me. I get to stare at a computer all day! But I get to listen to Pandora radio and write in my blog. Hospice is still coming 4 days a week and they get a B plus. Maybe it's because they don't stay long enough to get an A. I'm very good at delegating. Hah hah. My ALS is slowly taking my left arm and hand. But this computer mouse is still clicking away. I even got addicted to the game 'hearts', but writing is more fun! Who knew..Brian can even edit so it sounds better! I knew...
Christmas was great this year, nice tree that our two toddlers wouldn't leave alone so just cloth ornaments, nothing glass. But it was just great watching them open gifts. And it was great having family come and go. I spent the last week before Christmas writing memory letters to you siblings. Brian had to buy a new printer just to get them ready. But the most fun for me is when all our granddaughters, all five of them sat around my kitchen table making picture place mats. We just gave each one a bunch of pictures of themselves. They glued, put stickers, ect. On color paper, then it got laminated with contact paper. I believe you guessed I like crafts. Especially scrap booking with glue and a pen. I missed that craze where you go all out. My daughter Mandee redid allot of my old pictures. You could say they went 'acid free'. Favorite gift for sure!
Brian is off this week. You will have to ask him how it went, staying home with me. I love it because he gets all rested up. He took me to SLC to get new tires on my chair yesterday! The old tires were getting so worn out.
As soon as I got home I could tell the difference! Very smooth just like a Lexus should be! Right now he went shopping for a new cushion for my tush. Ahh life is good! Oh shoot, not Epsom salts. again? good-bye now got date with Mr. Baa-day! LOVE COLLEEN JOYCE FISHER CHATTERTON
Sunday, December 19, 2010
The Dark side Chapter 2
It is Sunday December 19, 2010 and we just got home from our second sacrament meeting of the day. We first went to Karen’s (Colleen’s older sister) Roy 11th ward meeting to hear Karen in the ward choir. What a wonderful treat that was, they have an awesome ward choir. We made it home just in time to get Colleen’s medicine and needs done and head for our meeting. We made it to the final song, and then had to leave quickly to get Colleen home to her cough assist machine. That along with the suction machine and we were ready to finally give her morning feeding. It is hard to get everything done when you have time lines to meet, and try as we might, no one will hold up a meeting for us to get there. Yesterday we had our family over for a Christmas party. We did it this weekend as Danny had his girls for the weekend and that way all could be there. It went well, and when it was over Danny and Scott and some friends went up to the base and bowled in Casino night. We used to go and bowl with them occasionally but not for a while now. Well back to our story, where did I leave off?
I believe that I stated that Colleen could hit the softball a country mile, which was no exaggeration. We played a lot of Co-ed softball over the years, and back in those days, they did not have the 150 foot line that outfielders could not come in front of when a lady is at bat. This played well into Colleen’s game, as the outfielders would move in to just behind the infielders when she came up, and she would promptly ask them to show her their backsides as they chased the ball out to the fence when she hit it over their heads. She said that she learned how to hit the ball so hard by hitting a tire with a bat in her backyard. Glad that tire could bounce back because if she hit me, I don’t think I would bounce, except maybe off the cement as I hit it. We played ball together for many years and I well remember one game where our team was down by 20 runs and came back to win the game and fielders turning tail and running to get to a ball that Colleen hit to the fence during our wild rally to catch up and go on to win.
Colleen also loves the outdoors and our most favorite place to go is to Flaming Gorge. We visited our favorite place as often as we could, and our kids have grown up knowing how to run a river. We have owned rafts since we were married 2 years. Prior to that time, I used my dad’s raft. The Green river below the dam, is not a major river for rapids, but if the water is up high, it can give you some really good rides. Unfortunately it is not that high very often, but we have found that if you venture over there in early June that it normally is as high as it will be for the summer. I have been going to Flaming Gorge since I was about 8 years old. I fell in love with the place then and have maintained that love affair ever since. Thank goodness I found someone who loved it as much as I did. Back in the days when I went to the gorge with my family (before I married), I remember that Greendale was dad’s favorite campground, but we would camp in any campground that was available, and the memories I have of Greendale are fond, but foul. (Referring to the outhouse) Dad used to call it the duck house, because it was so fowl. The only reason for bringing that campground up is that Colleen’s family had bought a membership to Camperworld, which had a private campground at the gorge, right behind Greendale, and we have been camping there ever since. We have added our own family membership so that we can get additional camping spots as we always seem to take a crowd over there with us. From rafting, boating, fishing hiking, geo-caching and just relaxing, that is one of my favorite spots to be in the outdoors. If you are not familiar with the phrase geo-caching, and wonder what in the world that is all about, you can go to geocaching.com and learn all about it. My son Scott introduced it to me in 2005, and I have been a fan ever since. Not that I am breaking any world records in caching, but when the opportunity presents itself, I definitely make the most of the chance, and log a few caches. As of this writing, I am sitting at 503 caches, but have also hidden 14. I like to place the larger caches out for younger kids to have the opportunity to learn and enjoy geo-caching. Our user name is BrandCo (can you figure out where that came from?) and in our family we have the following cachers, Scottypiper, Frog Lover, The Dancin K’s, The Snooper, The Quiz's, Guatamelon, and Kelsyboowho. We started our oldest granddaughters (The dancing K’s) geo-caching on New years day 2006 at about 12:15 AM. We decided that we wanted to quickly get out first cache of the year, and it happened that it was a cache that had plenty of items for the granddaughters to trade so we had them hooked immediately. We have done some crazy things in geo-caching, but had some great times. Scott and I did a 24 hour cache where we wnet down around Payson to Orem area to see how many caches we could find in one day. We logged 86 (I think) but that was in about 22 hours minus time for eating and other necessities. There is a reflector cache over at the gorge that you have to do at night, you hunt for reflectors in the night. We have been to that cache about 4 times over the years as we always wind up with someone new who has not been there before. This is by East Park lake, and it it so far removed from the main areas that the peace and silence you hear when out there is unbelievable. And stars, you can see so many stars out there it is hard to imagine. One time after going to that cache, we decided to do another one that was ab out a mile away, and while retrieving that one thought we were in the middle of a den of coyotes. There were so many coyote pups howling you could not hear yourself think. We also have placed some caches, including a reflector cache , at the gorge, our second home. We were actually looking for a possible place to buy over there, but the right opportunity has never came up. The last two years that we have been there, Colleen has been in her wheelchair, so our plans have been adapted to the times. Where we used to river run, swim, fish and hike, we have added going out on the lake on a pontoon boat that we can get Colleen on in her wheelchair. Of course we have done some geo-caching of caches that are only available by boat while we were out, what kind of cachers do you take us for??? More to come in my next installment.
I believe that I stated that Colleen could hit the softball a country mile, which was no exaggeration. We played a lot of Co-ed softball over the years, and back in those days, they did not have the 150 foot line that outfielders could not come in front of when a lady is at bat. This played well into Colleen’s game, as the outfielders would move in to just behind the infielders when she came up, and she would promptly ask them to show her their backsides as they chased the ball out to the fence when she hit it over their heads. She said that she learned how to hit the ball so hard by hitting a tire with a bat in her backyard. Glad that tire could bounce back because if she hit me, I don’t think I would bounce, except maybe off the cement as I hit it. We played ball together for many years and I well remember one game where our team was down by 20 runs and came back to win the game and fielders turning tail and running to get to a ball that Colleen hit to the fence during our wild rally to catch up and go on to win.
Colleen also loves the outdoors and our most favorite place to go is to Flaming Gorge. We visited our favorite place as often as we could, and our kids have grown up knowing how to run a river. We have owned rafts since we were married 2 years. Prior to that time, I used my dad’s raft. The Green river below the dam, is not a major river for rapids, but if the water is up high, it can give you some really good rides. Unfortunately it is not that high very often, but we have found that if you venture over there in early June that it normally is as high as it will be for the summer. I have been going to Flaming Gorge since I was about 8 years old. I fell in love with the place then and have maintained that love affair ever since. Thank goodness I found someone who loved it as much as I did. Back in the days when I went to the gorge with my family (before I married), I remember that Greendale was dad’s favorite campground, but we would camp in any campground that was available, and the memories I have of Greendale are fond, but foul. (Referring to the outhouse) Dad used to call it the duck house, because it was so fowl. The only reason for bringing that campground up is that Colleen’s family had bought a membership to Camperworld, which had a private campground at the gorge, right behind Greendale, and we have been camping there ever since. We have added our own family membership so that we can get additional camping spots as we always seem to take a crowd over there with us. From rafting, boating, fishing hiking, geo-caching and just relaxing, that is one of my favorite spots to be in the outdoors. If you are not familiar with the phrase geo-caching, and wonder what in the world that is all about, you can go to geocaching.com and learn all about it. My son Scott introduced it to me in 2005, and I have been a fan ever since. Not that I am breaking any world records in caching, but when the opportunity presents itself, I definitely make the most of the chance, and log a few caches. As of this writing, I am sitting at 503 caches, but have also hidden 14. I like to place the larger caches out for younger kids to have the opportunity to learn and enjoy geo-caching. Our user name is BrandCo (can you figure out where that came from?) and in our family we have the following cachers, Scottypiper, Frog Lover, The Dancin K’s, The Snooper, The Quiz's, Guatamelon, and Kelsyboowho. We started our oldest granddaughters (The dancing K’s) geo-caching on New years day 2006 at about 12:15 AM. We decided that we wanted to quickly get out first cache of the year, and it happened that it was a cache that had plenty of items for the granddaughters to trade so we had them hooked immediately. We have done some crazy things in geo-caching, but had some great times. Scott and I did a 24 hour cache where we wnet down around Payson to Orem area to see how many caches we could find in one day. We logged 86 (I think) but that was in about 22 hours minus time for eating and other necessities. There is a reflector cache over at the gorge that you have to do at night, you hunt for reflectors in the night. We have been to that cache about 4 times over the years as we always wind up with someone new who has not been there before. This is by East Park lake, and it it so far removed from the main areas that the peace and silence you hear when out there is unbelievable. And stars, you can see so many stars out there it is hard to imagine. One time after going to that cache, we decided to do another one that was ab out a mile away, and while retrieving that one thought we were in the middle of a den of coyotes. There were so many coyote pups howling you could not hear yourself think. We also have placed some caches, including a reflector cache , at the gorge, our second home. We were actually looking for a possible place to buy over there, but the right opportunity has never came up. The last two years that we have been there, Colleen has been in her wheelchair, so our plans have been adapted to the times. Where we used to river run, swim, fish and hike, we have added going out on the lake on a pontoon boat that we can get Colleen on in her wheelchair. Of course we have done some geo-caching of caches that are only available by boat while we were out, what kind of cachers do you take us for??? More to come in my next installment.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Our cat Lucky is a quiet, shy, loving feline. She has white paws, white down her neck and the rest dark gray. She was found under Scott and Tara's trailer home they resided for a spell. Barely clinging to life she was nursed back to health by the loving hands of Tara. Lucky arrived at our home when Scott and Tara moved in. Not sure when but sometime before Cherish. She had to get used to the dogs, Chewy and Izzy, with little problem. But her cat food was always put higher up so they wouldn't eat it. Lucky usually spent her time out side or perched high up by the furnace in the winter.
That all changed when Meg and Micah moved in. Now she spends her time upstairs with us usually sleeping in the pet bed Brian got for her under the table. She likes to jump in your car when you are trying to leave. One time she jumped in with Tara and she almost got on the freeway when Lucky jumped up front with her. Tara had to turn around to take her back home. Occasionally she jumps on my lap to visit.
Today she got a treat. When she jumped up on my lap she landed on my heating pad. Lucky stayed a little longer than normal enjoying the warmth. And she only gets one small spoon full of tuna-fish.!
That all changed when Meg and Micah moved in. Now she spends her time upstairs with us usually sleeping in the pet bed Brian got for her under the table. She likes to jump in your car when you are trying to leave. One time she jumped in with Tara and she almost got on the freeway when Lucky jumped up front with her. Tara had to turn around to take her back home. Occasionally she jumps on my lap to visit.
Today she got a treat. When she jumped up on my lap she landed on my heating pad. Lucky stayed a little longer than normal enjoying the warmth. And she only gets one small spoon full of tuna-fish.!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
MY BEEPER
I've been beeping at Joshua for over a year now and we have this bond that I should explain. Today is December 11, 2010, my ALS status is better said on what I can do. I can still click the mouse,[left hand only] scratch a little bit and smile. I can't turn my power chair on but I can still drive and control it mostly except my beep button is too hard to reach. [mostly] I would use that beeper if I needed help with anything at first. Then I started beeping at the kids when mom left the room for a minute. My beeper was used religiously so much that little Joshua would stop what he was doing and behave. So today as Joshua, who is so smart you can just brag, was planning on pulling the baby wipes out one by one he got beeped. I stretched my arm just right and beeped at him. He immediately looked at me with his baby blues and stopped with destroying the baby wipes.
Last night we were at our ward Christmas party. There was Brian, me, Tarra, Kelsy and Joshua. Brian got the honor to hold and keep Joshua happy while Tarra and Kelsy got food. Brian let Joshua push my buttons, on my chair. When Brian showed him the beeper button he didn't want anything to do with it. He would push the on, off button or any other of the 16 buttons but not the beeper. That just means this smart sweet little boy, who is not even two years old yet, did not forget my beeper.
I would be done now but Joshua just bit his sister. ohh dear!
Last night we were at our ward Christmas party. There was Brian, me, Tarra, Kelsy and Joshua. Brian got the honor to hold and keep Joshua happy while Tarra and Kelsy got food. Brian let Joshua push my buttons, on my chair. When Brian showed him the beeper button he didn't want anything to do with it. He would push the on, off button or any other of the 16 buttons but not the beeper. That just means this smart sweet little boy, who is not even two years old yet, did not forget my beeper.
I would be done now but Joshua just bit his sister. ohh dear!
Friday, December 10, 2010
LAST LEAF ON OUR TREE
My dear daughter Tarra was born in my 30Th year in this life. My only baby born a week late and and almost 9 pounds to boot. But by far the easiest because by May 30Th 1986 the epidural was invented and praise the Lord it was. It worked so well I think Brian did more by getting me to push. She was my baby and her siblings baby sister. She was a fast learner just like her little son Joshua is. The influence of siblings and her parents made it good for Tarra growing up. All though a certain brother did a lot of teasing when ever we got into a car. Tarra missed a lot of kindergarten because of sore throat and infected tonsils. That's when our chiropractor, Dr. Steve Taylor came into our lives. He saved her tonsils and have helped the whole family for almost 20 years now. Tarra learned well in school until boys came into the picture. That's when I sent her off reluctantly to Virginia to get married. Little did we know what adventures were in store for us. From Virginia to San Diego, California where her navy husband Daniel was assigned to the USS Ronald Reagan. We watched our baby girl turn into a mature married woman fast. Tarra set up home there for three years until she was pregnant with Kelsy. That's when she came back to Utah to be with family while Daniel was out to sea. It was a very special time for her family to have her there at Kelsy's birth. Daniel finished his four years in the Navy and they settled in Salt Lake City.
Next they settled in Nampa, Idaho to stay with Daniel's mother. That's where our first grandson was born, little Joshua. Clearfield, Utah was next because they wanted to help take care of me. And that's where we are today, December 8th 2010. Tarra and Daniel are definitely a godsend along with Kelsy and Joshua. They have been taking care of me for over a year now. They have been there for my care and all I can do is write my thanks and express my love. I think I even love Meg, their big, big, big dog. That's saying a lot because my family will know I have not been a fan of big dogs.
I've watched Tarra sew, cook, clean, canning, computer, and mother her kids. I've watched Daniel cook, clean,do gardening, mow the lawn, cut down our huge dead pine tree and be a Father to his kids.
My wish for you is to stay strong in the church, Daniel thank you for honoring your Priesthood, and just keep learning like you are. Love mom
Friday, December 3, 2010
MY THOUGHTS FOR MANDEE LUE
My dear daughter Mandee is my first girl born after two boys. She was so wanted all I could do on my spare time was sew with pink. I don't think they had or used ultra sound back then but they did use x-ray. Unfortunately it was a stressful time because of financial problems and it caused me to get bell's palsy, a condition that caused the left side of my face to freeze. I went to the doctor and he said Mandee was going to have to be born a month early, so they could start me on medicine to treat the palsy. That's when they took an x-ray of my tummy. Mandee had the prettiest eyes, and I knew right there that she was a girl. She can even brag that my hard labor only lasted 20 minutes. The doctor delivered her right in the hallway.
Mandee was blessed with talent for dancing and gymnastics. She plays the piano beautifully. Every school teacher she had in school had good and wonderful things to say about her. One of my fun experiences was with Mrs. Weeks, her fifth grade teacher. Mrs. Weeks and her husband ran a mortuary in Ogden. She invited us to visit on Halloween and boy do I ever remember her husband Matt giving us a tour of the place. It was cool and spooky at the same time.
Mandee was our first cap&gown walker but second child to get a diploma at Clearfield High school and she attended Utah State University in Logan as well as University of Utah. She met her husband Scott at the U of U while majoring in psychology. She received her BS from the U of U, and did her Master's at Utah State in Psychology and Counseling.
The high school play 'Barnum' was one of many fun experiences. After she was married, Mandee was in 'Music Man', 'Bye Bye Birdie', 'Oklahoma','The Wizard of Oz', and there's more coming I'm sure. I know I've just scratched the surface on what you have accomplished. Bless you Scott for your wonderful support.
My hope for you Mandee is to have children some day. The way you take care of your nieces and nephew, not to forget being a school counselor to many children, even raising the cutest puppies on this planet, you are more than ready.
May you and Scott remain active in the church, keep on doing what you do best, service to others and to each other. Love you and may God continue to bless. love mom
Thursday, December 2, 2010
MY Thanksgiving AND BLESSINGS
Today's the 29Th day of November. Just wanted to talk about thanksgiving this year. It was great because all my kids were there. I am so thankful for my blessings. Especially all my caregivers. I am so thankful for my wonderful husband Brian. He takes good care of me. But we have our bad nights, but mostly good ones. A good night for Brian is when I sleep all the way through. Last night was not one of those by far. Something woke me up; I was just plain hot and sweaty. It was hard communicating this because my speech has been gone almost 6 months now. Then an old itch came back to haunt and torment the both of us. Its a bad one because you cannot sleep; it's located right below my left butt cheek. We dealt with this when I could still talk some which caused a few sleepless nights back then. If Brian got any sleep last night it would be more than me. Brian applied anti itch cream twice because he forgot where it was. So after I tormented Brian by sitting in my chair since Brian's frustration caused me to chuckle and cry, woke up my bladder. After trying to get comfortable in the chair, I asked him to put me back into bed this time minus the extra blanket and heating pad that was making me hot. I spent the rest of the night on my side trying to scratch my back side trying to be quiet so Brian could sleep the last few hours before the alarm went off around 5:30. Now after Brian went to work I fiddled around trying to get warm and comfy so I could sleep. I zonked until the kids woke me up around 8:30. Then Becky, the hospice nurse came in to give me my breakfast and take my vitals. Then zonked out again until 11:00 when the kids woke me up. I feel better now but worrying about Brian. We are solving this nightmare by putting my computer close to our bed so we can communicate better. I've wanted this for a long time. My pet peeve is Brian asking me something when my computer is not available. Especially in bed or sitting on our amazing commode.
Not sure where or what caused this Koranic itch; whether it's the heat, my crazy meds, sitting all day butt naked from the waist down [its a potty thing] or a combination of all. But we are determined to fix these problems because we love each other and that's why I'm so blessed with a wonderful man. Dated 29 November 2010
Not sure where or what caused this Koranic itch; whether it's the heat, my crazy meds, sitting all day butt naked from the waist down [its a potty thing] or a combination of all. But we are determined to fix these problems because we love each other and that's why I'm so blessed with a wonderful man. Dated 29 November 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
MY SON SCOTT
My son Scott is a wonderful guy. We celebrated his birthday yesterday. As I think back on the day you were born, you were the scariest. You woke me up about midnight, wanting to see the world and didn't want to come out until 8 AM. I honestly don't remember much because you wore me out. Your dad later told me you were blue and had to be woke up by the nurses. You were very easy going and kinda shy, kinda just like your mom. But you are smart and learned well in school. You was also gifted in sports like your brother Danny, and not to forget your dad. I remember your left handed swing served you well in baseball,golf, and bowling.
You married a sweet and wonderful girl that we all love. You have been a great husband and a great father to your daughter, our special granddaughter Cherish. My hope for you and Tara is to be blessed with more children. That some day soon you will take your lovely wife and cherished daughter to the temple to be sealed for eternity. May our Heavenly Father continue to bless you always. Love mom
[ BORN November 20, 1979] WOW 31 YEARS OLD!
Friday, November 19, 2010
A Note from the Dark Side
You may be wondering what this title means................
It means the other side of this couple, yep me.... The hubby.
I don't know exactly what I should be talking about, but it is time that I added my 2 cents worth to this blog.
Colleen is still able to function very well considering how much she has lost the ability to use her limbs. Her legs have been gone for over a year now, that is not saying that she didn't lose some of them before, it's just when she could no longer operate independently using the walker when needed. She has been fully dependent on someone else moving her for the last 13 + months now. She has shown great courage and a beautiful spirit as she has struggled with her ALS. She always has kept smiling and brightening up everyone's spirits. Imagine that.. The one who has the most to worry and complain about is the one who lights up our lives and lifts our spirits. All of the posts that she has been making has been done at a great effort on her part. She has maybe 20% of her left hand and arm left and that is it. She has had to do everything with an on-screen keyboard from her Dynavox voice computer.
Some people may not know our whole story so I will give you the first small installment here, and tell you how we met.
In 1974, I was working at Utility Trailer in Clearfield's Freeport Center. My older brother, Jerry, also worked there. He approached me in late April one day, at lunchtime, to ask what I was doing after work. I was 19 at the time and had been working there since January of that year. I told him I had no specific plans, so he asked me if I would come and help him coach his ladies softball team (ASA fast pitch for Clinton City), as his assistant coaches were out of town at the time. I told him I would and went to Clinton Elementary school ball field with him, and started something new. I was a softball umpire and basketball referee, doing mostly church games, but had not coached softball before. There was a particularly pretty girl there, who caught my eye immediately, and of course, I had to tease her throughout the whole practice. After we finished for the evening I went home and did whatever for the rest of the night. At work the next day, I hunted my brother down to ask him who the girl was. When I described her, he kind of laughed and said her name was Colleen Fisher, and we had nothing in common..............
Obviously we did find something in common, and have been together 36 1/2 years (yesterday), since our first date. She was only a Junior at Clearfield High when we met, but neither of us dated anyone else since that first date on May 18th 1974, at Ye Lion's Den in South Ogden.
Colleen was a very very very very very good softball player, and we played Co-Ed softball together for many years, playing in many State tournaments. The year we were married, 1975, Colleen was only 18, and as such could play in the 18 and under league for ASA. The coaches of the Sunset City team, Clinton City team and Layton, put all their 18 and under girls together, entered them into the State ASA tournament, which of course they won, and she got to travel to the nationals that were held in Binghamton, New York. They did not win, but they had a great time, and she was the only married member of the team. She could hit the ball a country mile and put the ball out of a men's field in a tournament in Moab, Utah in 1975.
Well, I won't go into a lot more at this time, but needless to say, she was quite the athlete and raised her kids to be pretty good athletes also.
It means the other side of this couple, yep me.... The hubby.
I don't know exactly what I should be talking about, but it is time that I added my 2 cents worth to this blog.
Colleen is still able to function very well considering how much she has lost the ability to use her limbs. Her legs have been gone for over a year now, that is not saying that she didn't lose some of them before, it's just when she could no longer operate independently using the walker when needed. She has been fully dependent on someone else moving her for the last 13 + months now. She has shown great courage and a beautiful spirit as she has struggled with her ALS. She always has kept smiling and brightening up everyone's spirits. Imagine that.. The one who has the most to worry and complain about is the one who lights up our lives and lifts our spirits. All of the posts that she has been making has been done at a great effort on her part. She has maybe 20% of her left hand and arm left and that is it. She has had to do everything with an on-screen keyboard from her Dynavox voice computer.
Some people may not know our whole story so I will give you the first small installment here, and tell you how we met.
In 1974, I was working at Utility Trailer in Clearfield's Freeport Center. My older brother, Jerry, also worked there. He approached me in late April one day, at lunchtime, to ask what I was doing after work. I was 19 at the time and had been working there since January of that year. I told him I had no specific plans, so he asked me if I would come and help him coach his ladies softball team (ASA fast pitch for Clinton City), as his assistant coaches were out of town at the time. I told him I would and went to Clinton Elementary school ball field with him, and started something new. I was a softball umpire and basketball referee, doing mostly church games, but had not coached softball before. There was a particularly pretty girl there, who caught my eye immediately, and of course, I had to tease her throughout the whole practice. After we finished for the evening I went home and did whatever for the rest of the night. At work the next day, I hunted my brother down to ask him who the girl was. When I described her, he kind of laughed and said her name was Colleen Fisher, and we had nothing in common..............
Obviously we did find something in common, and have been together 36 1/2 years (yesterday), since our first date. She was only a Junior at Clearfield High when we met, but neither of us dated anyone else since that first date on May 18th 1974, at Ye Lion's Den in South Ogden.
Colleen was a very very very very very good softball player, and we played Co-Ed softball together for many years, playing in many State tournaments. The year we were married, 1975, Colleen was only 18, and as such could play in the 18 and under league for ASA. The coaches of the Sunset City team, Clinton City team and Layton, put all their 18 and under girls together, entered them into the State ASA tournament, which of course they won, and she got to travel to the nationals that were held in Binghamton, New York. They did not win, but they had a great time, and she was the only married member of the team. She could hit the ball a country mile and put the ball out of a men's field in a tournament in Moab, Utah in 1975.
Well, I won't go into a lot more at this time, but needless to say, she was quite the athlete and raised her kids to be pretty good athletes also.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
MY SON DANNY
It is Wednesday, November 10, 2010. The weather has turned cold now with little snow, lot of rain, and lots of falling leaves. I am in my bedroom with the light out sitting in my chair. It's mostly comfortable but little cold. 4 year old Cherish is in the living room on the couch and Tarra is in the green rocking chair. Both asleep I'm sure at this early hour of 6am. It's fine except my medicine hasn't worn off yet. Part of me wants to sleep and part wants to write in my blog. My son Danny turned 33 yesterday. As a mother you think about him as a baby and a small child. You think it was just yesterday that I was rocking him to sleep or pitching a ball to him when he was 3. But he is all grown up now. He's got his father's happy disposition. He is so loving and always has a hug for me. I LOVE HIM SO!
And he still likes playing ball; weather it's softball on the field or the Red Sox playing on TV, or a good golf course to play on with his brother, father, or friends. He has 3 daughters, an ex wife, and just recently an ex girlfriend named Danielle. I was sad to see her go because she is a wonderful girl and I love her so.
Danny, my wish for you is that you come back to church and find a girl that will go with you. That you will find peace in your life.
Thank-you for taking care of grandma Chatterton's house. She always talks highly of you. Your mom and dad will always be there, your family also. I see good things happening in your future as you watch your beautiful daughters grow along with their wonderful dad. Love MOM.
MY HARD WORKING FAMILY
Today's November 13, 2010. We got to bed after midnight because we went to one of our favorite theaters, Desert Star. It was called Welcome back Potter ' a spoof from Harry Potter and an old TV show from the 1970's called Welcome Back Cotter '. It was so funny and we had a great time. But the real story is our wonderful adult kids. They planned on cleaning out the top level of our shed because it was out of control. Mandee, Tarra and later Scott S. Would join the fun. The treasures, nick knacks, clothes and junk were all sorted. Did I forget something, ohhh yes the toys! Kelsy and Joshua had Christmas early. They had so much fun they didn't even care it was frickin cold. So today is going to the dump, going to the D I,labeling and just hanging out day. But something happened to me today, when Brian gave me breakfast it made my stomach queasy so Brian stopped feeding me and brought out the barf bucket and towels. But nothing happened, just pure misery for a few hours. Brian was afraid to feed me after that but gave me water around noon. When evening came he tried feeding the rest of breakfast but it didn't work so out came the towels and you know what. Brian thought it was probably the new protein powder he got from Melaleuca. For the last 3 months we used the older stuff I bought a few years back.
So this morning November 14Th Brian gave me something else and it worked fine but I still slept most of the morning. But everything is good outside because the hard working kids got what needed to be done! That's so cool but my poor house inside is kinda trashed, Brian, Tarra and Daniel are taking it easy on the sabbath, Brian goes in the bedroom, grabs some candy, puts a whopper candy in my mouth,gets the laptop,and plops in the rocking chair. In all fairness though he is on the third load of laundry....the price we had to pay to get the shed and yard done yesterday. And he is going to bathe the dogs today. He is my knight in shining armor!
So this morning November 14Th Brian gave me something else and it worked fine but I still slept most of the morning. But everything is good outside because the hard working kids got what needed to be done! That's so cool but my poor house inside is kinda trashed, Brian, Tarra and Daniel are taking it easy on the sabbath, Brian goes in the bedroom, grabs some candy, puts a whopper candy in my mouth,gets the laptop,and plops in the rocking chair. In all fairness though he is on the third load of laundry....the price we had to pay to get the shed and yard done yesterday. And he is going to bathe the dogs today. He is my knight in shining armor!
Saturday, November 6, 2010
WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME
Today's November 3rd 2010. Wow time is flying by the ever celestial way. The grandchildren looked so nice in their costumes. Too bad it rained, the trick or treaters got wet. A nice but quiet Halloween.
Today started with me crying; do I want to talk about it? Not sure, why is my heart achy? At times like this I've wanted my dear mother for her love and comfort. Where can I turn for peace? My savior and my family.
Which brings the question, why do I think the worst possible thing will happen to me? What are my biggest fears? Now that I'm writing about it, the stresses release from my body. There is a scripture from Psalms; be still and know that I am God. I shouldn't cry, I should accept change as it happens with a grateful heart. But there's also a scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 119 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God; okay that says it all. My goodness that's all I want is to have the perfect home, the perfect schedule, to see everything in my house have its own home. But am I being a drama queen? An ungrateful person? What is wrong with me? Am I going to have to get heavy medication so I can stay calm? Was I this emotional when I didn't have ALS?
Yesterday morning everything was going so smoothly except Brian was rushed because he needs to leave at 6am to pick up Scott at the train station. Brian gave me a nice shower and he got everything done except my medicine and hair. No problem, Kelsey is coming over (the aid from Summit Health care). Kelsey comes over her usual sweet self and does my hair ever so wonderful. Then I tell her I needed my medicine. Sorry she says, my boss won't let me feed you any more! What! She explains something about hospital policy and I thought ohhh no you are upsetting my idea of the perfect schedule; getting me taken care of so Tarra can have her rest so she can take care of our next generation, my grand kids ages 1 and 3. Kelsey is so sweet and understanding and sorry and flustered herself. How can I cry over this? I don't know! But I cry for the next two hours.
And when Brian gets home from work the crying continued. Honey, you need to call them! Honey, they are so fired! Honey, can I have that pink medicine that helps emotions? Honey, maybe I need the other stuff the one with the long name! Honey will you wipe my nose? Okay honey will you break out the cold wash clothe? Ohhhh this so sucks! So sorry about this, just put me in a corner, ohhh we need to go to support group tonight, your mom and Danny are coming! Okay the medicine kicked in, we're good to go; my sunglasses where are they? Let's go!
So today I am searching my scriptures that were downloaded right here on this wonderful computer. It's a big contrast to yesterday when all I could do was vent and look up every bad thing said about hospice on the all knowing web (it's spinning my brain). I so don't want to repeat a day like that so I'm taking hold of what the Saviour has for me and never going that way again. Why yes dear, a priesthood blessing would be so welcomed.
Today started with me crying; do I want to talk about it? Not sure, why is my heart achy? At times like this I've wanted my dear mother for her love and comfort. Where can I turn for peace? My savior and my family.
Which brings the question, why do I think the worst possible thing will happen to me? What are my biggest fears? Now that I'm writing about it, the stresses release from my body. There is a scripture from Psalms; be still and know that I am God. I shouldn't cry, I should accept change as it happens with a grateful heart. But there's also a scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 119 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God; okay that says it all. My goodness that's all I want is to have the perfect home, the perfect schedule, to see everything in my house have its own home. But am I being a drama queen? An ungrateful person? What is wrong with me? Am I going to have to get heavy medication so I can stay calm? Was I this emotional when I didn't have ALS?
Yesterday morning everything was going so smoothly except Brian was rushed because he needs to leave at 6am to pick up Scott at the train station. Brian gave me a nice shower and he got everything done except my medicine and hair. No problem, Kelsey is coming over (the aid from Summit Health care). Kelsey comes over her usual sweet self and does my hair ever so wonderful. Then I tell her I needed my medicine. Sorry she says, my boss won't let me feed you any more! What! She explains something about hospital policy and I thought ohhh no you are upsetting my idea of the perfect schedule; getting me taken care of so Tarra can have her rest so she can take care of our next generation, my grand kids ages 1 and 3. Kelsey is so sweet and understanding and sorry and flustered herself. How can I cry over this? I don't know! But I cry for the next two hours.
And when Brian gets home from work the crying continued. Honey, you need to call them! Honey, they are so fired! Honey, can I have that pink medicine that helps emotions? Honey, maybe I need the other stuff the one with the long name! Honey will you wipe my nose? Okay honey will you break out the cold wash clothe? Ohhhh this so sucks! So sorry about this, just put me in a corner, ohhh we need to go to support group tonight, your mom and Danny are coming! Okay the medicine kicked in, we're good to go; my sunglasses where are they? Let's go!
So today I am searching my scriptures that were downloaded right here on this wonderful computer. It's a big contrast to yesterday when all I could do was vent and look up every bad thing said about hospice on the all knowing web (it's spinning my brain). I so don't want to repeat a day like that so I'm taking hold of what the Saviour has for me and never going that way again. Why yes dear, a priesthood blessing would be so welcomed.
MY VENT
To whom it may concern; This is just to vent. Who ever made a stupid rule as to not let a CNA or any one trained to take care of the sick and handicapped? To not be able to feed someone with a 14 inch tube sticking right out of their tummy is beyond me. My three year old grand daughter can almost do it she has seen it enough. This is just like saying my surgeon who put it in for me with ease and expertise I might add,doesn't know what he's doing . You just got to be mistaken, don't you mean a pick-line for narcotics? Because a peg tube is for milk or juice, not narcotics. I have no desire for them now or on my death bed. The ideal situation for my feeding tube is to make it easier to get nutrition since she can't get it through her mouth.
I honestly had a smooth thing going, My daugter was getting the rest she needed, so she could take care of her two kids when she awakes. By the time they were up and fed, I'd have already been fed, so she could actually eat herself! Then she was more prepared to get the dogs and cat happy too! Believe me, they count too! And maybe clean up a little or is that too hard to swallow. If this is what hospice is then I DON'T WANT IT!
I honestly had a smooth thing going, My daugter was getting the rest she needed, so she could take care of her two kids when she awakes. By the time they were up and fed, I'd have already been fed, so she could actually eat herself! Then she was more prepared to get the dogs and cat happy too! Believe me, they count too! And maybe clean up a little or is that too hard to swallow. If this is what hospice is then I DON'T WANT IT!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
MY TALK IN CHURCH
My dear brother's and sisters, I need to start my talk by saying how my Heavenly Father was very mindful of my adversity. As I look upon my youth and all the way to adulthood in my safety, my spirituality, my prayers, my family and now my disease. I have listened to the comforter when life was hard. When I think back I remembered a time when I was 34. I was sitting in the temple quietly waiting and pondering when a voice whispered in my head you're going to die first ". Now being 34 I was very surprised and scared, but it sure got me thinking about the future. The next week when I was at work we were introduced to a 401K plan, and I didn't hesitate to sign up. Scrolling up to 3 years later, my husband Brian and I were just getting home from work and we had a visitor. It was a lady from Myers Mortuary selling funeral insurance. Brian and I didn't put out much resistance, if anything we were extremely curious. She sold us both a policy and left a whole bunch of paper work for a will. We looked at it and shying away from it we filed it somewhere unfinished.
My next experience was seeing my mother taking care of my dad when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer disease. The examples and patience she showed the family were Christ like. It was a long but loving 10 years. When my dad passed away in 2001, Brian was asked to remodel my mother's kitchen. When he was finished mom asked about paying for all the labor. I spoke up and said we wanted burial plots by my father and my mom said that's a good idea. So now you know family planning for the future is so important. And you know that our parents gave us great examples in caring during adversity.
In doctrine and covenants section 121 it tells us that Joseph Smith's suffering is not as Job's. That his friends and family rally around him. I testify dear brother's and sisters that this has happened to me by your love and kind service not to mention words of support. The prayers on my behalf are felt so strongly. The love and support from family members is very humbling. I will close now by saying I know the church is true in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
My next experience was seeing my mother taking care of my dad when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer disease. The examples and patience she showed the family were Christ like. It was a long but loving 10 years. When my dad passed away in 2001, Brian was asked to remodel my mother's kitchen. When he was finished mom asked about paying for all the labor. I spoke up and said we wanted burial plots by my father and my mom said that's a good idea. So now you know family planning for the future is so important. And you know that our parents gave us great examples in caring during adversity.
In doctrine and covenants section 121 it tells us that Joseph Smith's suffering is not as Job's. That his friends and family rally around him. I testify dear brother's and sisters that this has happened to me by your love and kind service not to mention words of support. The prayers on my behalf are felt so strongly. The love and support from family members is very humbling. I will close now by saying I know the church is true in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
My Feeding Tube
I got my feeding tube the third week in June. It was placed about 4 inches above my belly button, and was so welcomed except the first week that I was recovering from the surgery. The pain was about a 9 out of 10 but liquid loratab saved the day. My liquid 'high' only lasted about 4 days until it wouldn't allow food to stay down.
The nurse kindly showed Brian and Tarra how to properly feed me through this pec tube. I am writing this on October 24, 2010 and it has been about 3 weeks the feedings have gone smoothly. The problems? Thought you would never ask. First one was not using a towel because it always leaked either allot or a little. The milk or juice would splash on the floor or all over me, on my chair, and on my computer. When they were not feeding me the tube would be stashed in my bra or just rested between my legs or sides. Not comfortable.
A small miracle happened about a month ago. Brian retrieved my jewelry from storage. Now those jewelry boxes also stored our beloved collection of decorative pins. Pins with holiday markings, blood donor pins, etc. This gave us the best idea since buying poodles. Why not just pin this pec tube up by left or right shoulder? Then one day this month Tarra started feeding me through the top of my shirt instead of pulling my shirt up to retrieve tube from down under. Wow, the food went right down! Now once or twice a week a little coke was poured through the tube because it kept the tube flowing smoothly. [Kinda like Drano.] So happy the bugs were tweaked out. The only thing we can't fix is the burbs and sometimes spit ups. Yep, just like a baby. So I get a little taste of the protein drink or juice which is okay, unless they put hot peppers in my drink, the burb burned all the way up! But that only happened once. And today I never felt better! Not only is it comfortable, the fresh juice is everything its cracked up to be!
The nurse kindly showed Brian and Tarra how to properly feed me through this pec tube. I am writing this on October 24, 2010 and it has been about 3 weeks the feedings have gone smoothly. The problems? Thought you would never ask. First one was not using a towel because it always leaked either allot or a little. The milk or juice would splash on the floor or all over me, on my chair, and on my computer. When they were not feeding me the tube would be stashed in my bra or just rested between my legs or sides. Not comfortable.
A small miracle happened about a month ago. Brian retrieved my jewelry from storage. Now those jewelry boxes also stored our beloved collection of decorative pins. Pins with holiday markings, blood donor pins, etc. This gave us the best idea since buying poodles. Why not just pin this pec tube up by left or right shoulder? Then one day this month Tarra started feeding me through the top of my shirt instead of pulling my shirt up to retrieve tube from down under. Wow, the food went right down! Now once or twice a week a little coke was poured through the tube because it kept the tube flowing smoothly. [Kinda like Drano.] So happy the bugs were tweaked out. The only thing we can't fix is the burbs and sometimes spit ups. Yep, just like a baby. So I get a little taste of the protein drink or juice which is okay, unless they put hot peppers in my drink, the burb burned all the way up! But that only happened once. And today I never felt better! Not only is it comfortable, the fresh juice is everything its cracked up to be!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
OUR SUPPORT GROUP
When I was diagnosed with ALS in April of 2008, I was still working. And I had to get used to the idea that life as we know it was taking on a new chapter. We didn't attend an ALS support group until December of 2008. We were picking up our first wheelchair from MDA when 'Dave' [Ricketts] invited us to attend. It was a nice Christmas party that we really enjoyed. From then on we attended fairly regularly. They were very informative; guest speakers from social security to funeral planning. They showed gadgets and then the very popular doctor Bromberg would speak. Then for October 2010 SG Brian was asked to speak. 'Of course' said my extroverted husband. The night turned out great because my sweet sister Karen spoke how we had fun together growing up and a lot more. My mother spoke on my grandma Fisher, who died with ALS clear back before I was born. Mandee was next and she spoke on our fun hikes we used to do down the green river trail. Then she showed some of the afghans I crocheted for her. Brian spoke very humbly and our daughter Tarra read from my blog about a bad night, [one that i didn't pick] and my tears flowed. But the people were touched by it so it turned out fine. The pictures posted are of Dave Ricketts with me; and part of my family that came to support group to hear us speak.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
MY VERY LONG CLINICAL VISIT;
Its Wednesday morning October 13, 2010. I got woke up early, like 4am. The mask is so uncomfortable and my mouth is so dry. Brian took the mask off, just like other mornings. I'm beginning to think the smaller size is to blame.
Well, enough of that, Brian's home today to take me to my quarterly visit to the U OF U, a clinic by the John Huntsman cancer center.
Here they weigh you, take pulse, blood pressure, all that stuff. Then you are assigned a room so up to 9 different professions can visit you. A new lady, Anna from MDA is first. So sweet and so willing to help; and she loves my blog! Then Jennifer, the occupational therapist comes in. She helps us with our shower chair woes, and she reads a story in my blog and she likes it! Then we get Kari, the nutritionist. No problems there, wait, how much protein per day? The discussion ends with me promising that I would make a food journal for a few days so I can email it to her. By the way, she reads the same story in my blog. Then we get Kathy, the social worker, very easy going and always listens. She reads yet another story on my blog, this one's about my love for Prozac! She so understands. Next is Kristy, our very smart pharmacist. What's this, you drug your wife so you can sleep? Joking aside she says try Melatonin, it helps you both sleep and could help your dry mouth problems. [sleep aids tend to do this]
Long story, not done yet, we have a small break. Brian says hi to some other patients we have gotten to know for a while. By this time its after 4pm and have not seen the doctor, but we get a resident that checks my very weak limbs and asks a lot of questions. Last we see Dr. Bromberg; he brings in 3 more med students and asks if they can poke and prod. I tell him I'm too tired and then I ask if my swallowing was going to stop working any time soon. Then I ask a question about dying naturally; he answered both questions in his kind gentle way how not to worry. The rest is a blur because I was crying by then so we finished up and Brian took me home. The crying started again Thursday and poor Brian thinking it was his fault finally understood that I was still tired. You can only guess what Brian drugged me with that night. It was so welcomed! I slept late and feel great!
Well, enough of that, Brian's home today to take me to my quarterly visit to the U OF U, a clinic by the John Huntsman cancer center.
Here they weigh you, take pulse, blood pressure, all that stuff. Then you are assigned a room so up to 9 different professions can visit you. A new lady, Anna from MDA is first. So sweet and so willing to help; and she loves my blog! Then Jennifer, the occupational therapist comes in. She helps us with our shower chair woes, and she reads a story in my blog and she likes it! Then we get Kari, the nutritionist. No problems there, wait, how much protein per day? The discussion ends with me promising that I would make a food journal for a few days so I can email it to her. By the way, she reads the same story in my blog. Then we get Kathy, the social worker, very easy going and always listens. She reads yet another story on my blog, this one's about my love for Prozac! She so understands. Next is Kristy, our very smart pharmacist. What's this, you drug your wife so you can sleep? Joking aside she says try Melatonin, it helps you both sleep and could help your dry mouth problems. [sleep aids tend to do this]
Long story, not done yet, we have a small break. Brian says hi to some other patients we have gotten to know for a while. By this time its after 4pm and have not seen the doctor, but we get a resident that checks my very weak limbs and asks a lot of questions. Last we see Dr. Bromberg; he brings in 3 more med students and asks if they can poke and prod. I tell him I'm too tired and then I ask if my swallowing was going to stop working any time soon. Then I ask a question about dying naturally; he answered both questions in his kind gentle way how not to worry. The rest is a blur because I was crying by then so we finished up and Brian took me home. The crying started again Thursday and poor Brian thinking it was his fault finally understood that I was still tired. You can only guess what Brian drugged me with that night. It was so welcomed! I slept late and feel great!
ANOTHER KELSY MOMENT:
Kelsy [age 3]is on her way to becoming an awesome big sister to her baby brother Joshua [18 mo]. Its probably a good thing because he is going to be bigger and stronger. Kelsy helps mom and dad by keeping Josh out of [trouble] when they are not in the room. So for the umpteenth time it happened today [Oct. 12] Josh got into the craft box. Kelsy took it away, leaving Josh mad and crying; he came after Kelsy. But she wasn't going to let him get her, smart Kelsy ran away from him. Something magical happened. She started running in circles. This caused Josh to stop crying and run in circles with her! Both just laughing and no one saw but me. What a special moment.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
BIRTHDAY AND RECAP
TODAY IS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9TH 2010 – this morning we got up I drove out to the living room and found little Chewee scratching at the back door! Now this tells us that he's a little escape artist! The back yard is all fenced in even to the back door. I could hear him an hour sooner but too groggy to wake up. I'm still a little tired and I can't get comfortable because its a little cold. Brian is tired too, he gets all cozy with a blanket and our two poodles. They like to snuggle too. Now the kids are up, time for breakfast.
Today Cherish's birthday! She is now 4 years old! Our little Guatemala girl is so sweet and smart. Her parents, Scott and Tara have done so well with her. She gets to spend Mondays and Wednesday with us because her and Kelsy have preschool. Now were heading to SLC to the gateway. Kelsy is invited to a party at Build a Bear workshop. So Brian drops Kelsy and Tarra off and we head to our favorite store, NPS [Market Square]. We buy needed supplies and some we don't need. When we got back Brian wanted to go again, this time to find a Geo-cashing spot on a trail just south of Free port Center. You can sure feel that Fall is here, but a pleasant 65 degrees. Now we are watching our favorite team play; BYU. They won a nail biter 24 to 21 against San Diego.
Brian seems more rested this week now that the potatoes are all sold and delivered.
We had a busy week but Brian had Friday off and got much needed rest. We got a treat last night by seeing a great show at Rodgers Theater. The show was 'CLUE' just like the board game only better. Very funny and very good acting.
Today Cherish's birthday! She is now 4 years old! Our little Guatemala girl is so sweet and smart. Her parents, Scott and Tara have done so well with her. She gets to spend Mondays and Wednesday with us because her and Kelsy have preschool. Now were heading to SLC to the gateway. Kelsy is invited to a party at Build a Bear workshop. So Brian drops Kelsy and Tarra off and we head to our favorite store, NPS [Market Square]. We buy needed supplies and some we don't need. When we got back Brian wanted to go again, this time to find a Geo-cashing spot on a trail just south of Free port Center. You can sure feel that Fall is here, but a pleasant 65 degrees. Now we are watching our favorite team play; BYU. They won a nail biter 24 to 21 against San Diego.
Brian seems more rested this week now that the potatoes are all sold and delivered.
We had a busy week but Brian had Friday off and got much needed rest. We got a treat last night by seeing a great show at Rodgers Theater. The show was 'CLUE' just like the board game only better. Very funny and very good acting.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
MY WONDERFUL NIGHT
TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6th 2010
Last night was great! We had support group and they asked Brian and I to speak. Its located in Salt Lake by the University of Utah campus.
Well, not many people came but allot of my family did! Karen, my sister talked first and she talked about growing up in Clinton and all the fun we had growing up playing softball. She said some nice things so thank you Karen! Then my mom talked about taking care of my grandmother clear back in 1954! wow, she had no power chair or all the gadgets {especially this wonderful computer}that I have today. I look forward to finally meet her and all my grandparents I haven't met. Then Brian talked about our love for motorcycles and all the doctors he took me to before my diagnosis of ALS. Last one was Tarra, my daughter talked about my bad night and how Brian was so kind and patient with me. Well, that started my tears and mom, Karen and Brian helped me stop. Well that prompted me to talk about my good night! I slept very well last. My by pap mask was clean and comfortable and it really helps the breathing! A little discomfort when Brian got up to get ready for work, my mouth was dry and the top of my nose hurt a little from the mask. After Brian is done getting ready, he gets me up and dressed and off to work. Tarra is sleeping on the chair and little 3 year old almost 4 in a few days is Cherish. Her and Kelsy have preschool later today. Okay, time for breakfast.
Its 11:30 am and i'm dosing off still. Dang it I need caffiene or something. My mom comes over and brings my laundry, puts it away. She sits on the bed and we talk. I LOVE THIS COMPUTER! She reads to me from a book about President Monson for a while. I love this woman!!!
Last night was great! We had support group and they asked Brian and I to speak. Its located in Salt Lake by the University of Utah campus.
Well, not many people came but allot of my family did! Karen, my sister talked first and she talked about growing up in Clinton and all the fun we had growing up playing softball. She said some nice things so thank you Karen! Then my mom talked about taking care of my grandmother clear back in 1954! wow, she had no power chair or all the gadgets {especially this wonderful computer}that I have today. I look forward to finally meet her and all my grandparents I haven't met. Then Brian talked about our love for motorcycles and all the doctors he took me to before my diagnosis of ALS. Last one was Tarra, my daughter talked about my bad night and how Brian was so kind and patient with me. Well, that started my tears and mom, Karen and Brian helped me stop. Well that prompted me to talk about my good night! I slept very well last. My by pap mask was clean and comfortable and it really helps the breathing! A little discomfort when Brian got up to get ready for work, my mouth was dry and the top of my nose hurt a little from the mask. After Brian is done getting ready, he gets me up and dressed and off to work. Tarra is sleeping on the chair and little 3 year old almost 4 in a few days is Cherish. Her and Kelsy have preschool later today. Okay, time for breakfast.
Its 11:30 am and i'm dosing off still. Dang it I need caffiene or something. My mom comes over and brings my laundry, puts it away. She sits on the bed and we talk. I LOVE THIS COMPUTER! She reads to me from a book about President Monson for a while. I love this woman!!!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
ALL MY WONDERFUL CAREGIVERS
I have been greatly blessed with good people in my life. I need to start with my wonderful family. When I first started falling and tripping, they were there to pick me up. When diagnosis finally came, we all cried together. My 3 brothers and 3 sister have all helped me any way they could. The prayers and sweet letters on my behave were felt so strongly and helped me overcome my fears. My husband Brian has been wonderful. My mom has helped so much. She's cleaned, cooked and countless other things. She even let me stay with her while the house was being remodeled, which took about 4 weeks. She's a temple worker and just recently helped me go through a session and even being my voice for me. She still helps with laundry almost every week. We all love this 81 year old mother.
In summer of 2009, Ward members signed up to take me to the temple and it was so fun with these ladies. Friends, neighbors and ward members put in countless hours cleaning and organizing during and after the remodel. Tarra, Daniel, and their 2 kids Kelsy and Joshua moved in with us in October 2009. The timing couldn't have been better because that was the same time my legs didn't want to work any more. I couldn't write enough on the countless hours they put in to help run our house hold. Even 3 year old Kelsy is so willing to help. She is definitly a special child. The lawn and garden have never looked better because of Daniel's magic touch.
This year we have hired a cleaning service to help with our bedroom and bathroom. We got an angel named Jan. She cleans so well I don't want to lose her. She will always be a special friend. Then there's Kelsey, a nurses aid that helps on Tuesday bath day and Thursday for a few hours to help take the burden off Brian. Both these ladies are a godsend.
Mandee, my daughter who lives with her husband and 2 dogs, Annie and Ally in West Jordan, also helps when she can. Yesterday she cleaned out our van and wants to clean the truck and car too.
In summer of 2009, Ward members signed up to take me to the temple and it was so fun with these ladies. Friends, neighbors and ward members put in countless hours cleaning and organizing during and after the remodel. Tarra, Daniel, and their 2 kids Kelsy and Joshua moved in with us in October 2009. The timing couldn't have been better because that was the same time my legs didn't want to work any more. I couldn't write enough on the countless hours they put in to help run our house hold. Even 3 year old Kelsy is so willing to help. She is definitly a special child. The lawn and garden have never looked better because of Daniel's magic touch.
This year we have hired a cleaning service to help with our bedroom and bathroom. We got an angel named Jan. She cleans so well I don't want to lose her. She will always be a special friend. Then there's Kelsey, a nurses aid that helps on Tuesday bath day and Thursday for a few hours to help take the burden off Brian. Both these ladies are a godsend.
Mandee, my daughter who lives with her husband and 2 dogs, Annie and Ally in West Jordan, also helps when she can. Yesterday she cleaned out our van and wants to clean the truck and car too.
Monday, October 4, 2010
SUNDAY OCTOBER 3RD 2010
Today is General Conference and the apostle Dallon Oaks is speaking on the two lines of communication with the Lord. The personal line and the priesthood line. This reminded me of when Dallon Oaks walked into our sacrament meeting unannounced. It was at the chapel up by the Clear-field Library. I remember that dear sweet woman Debbie Buckley was speaking and it turned into a very spiritual meeting. We attended that chapel in the late 1980's until one was built in our neighborhood.
"To enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven." -Pres. Thomas S. Monson
Mandee's little white poodle named Ally had four puppies. The dad is a Yorkshire so the puppies are yorkie-poos. Today she sold the last one. This all started when we bought Dakota, a male red poodle puppy for Mandee's 21st birthday. We fell in love with him immediately. My son Scott and his wife Tara picked up a female red poodle puppy about 6 months later named Isabelle. Isabelle went on to have 3 litters right in our basement. Thats where Ally came from, she was in the last litter, and Annie too. Dakota has since passed away and Isabelle lives with us as well as Chewy, a male from Issy's first litter. Tarra and Daniel have a golden lab named Meg and we have Lucky, a very timid cat.
"To enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven." -Pres. Thomas S. Monson
Mandee's little white poodle named Ally had four puppies. The dad is a Yorkshire so the puppies are yorkie-poos. Today she sold the last one. This all started when we bought Dakota, a male red poodle puppy for Mandee's 21st birthday. We fell in love with him immediately. My son Scott and his wife Tara picked up a female red poodle puppy about 6 months later named Isabelle. Isabelle went on to have 3 litters right in our basement. Thats where Ally came from, she was in the last litter, and Annie too. Dakota has since passed away and Isabelle lives with us as well as Chewy, a male from Issy's first litter. Tarra and Daniel have a golden lab named Meg and we have Lucky, a very timid cat.
MY BAD NIGHT
Its 6am this Saturday morning October 2nd 2010. I'm sitting in my chair the only one up except the mosquito and fly buzzing around. Last night was great except I got woke up by my cotton mouth or something I'm not sure. I never know what time it is but I used to have an alarm clock right by my head. I had Brian turn me a little which was fine except the pillow felt a little uncomfortable. My by pap mask was working fine so I tried to go back to sleep. But I couldn't. I could hear Brian snoring. I used to kick him when my legs worked. Then the itching started, first my right cheek then my nose. My hands are too weak to scratch so I moan through the mask. Brian gets up turns on the light in the closet, [where are the flashlights when you need them.] Brian doesn't know what I'm mumbling so he takes my mask off. Ahhh relief, I can scratch now. Brian puts the mask back on but it leaks air all over. He tries to adjust it, bless his heart. Then he turns me toward the window a little, puts the pillow behind my back but its too big and bulky, just not comfortable. I try to explain but can't, so Brian tries to guess and move me over even more. No, I say, so I decide its okay. We try to go back to sleep yet once again. But that won't last because the mask leaks air, if only it was a quiet leak. Its loud and bubbly which tells me my chin and around my mouth are wet.
By then my bladder woke up so I mumbled for Brian yet again. He gently picks me up out of bed and into my chair. I roll to the bathroom while my thoughtful Brian gets the toilet warmed up. He installed a Bayda which has that feature! How cool is that?
That is why I'm up early. Its not 6am any more its 8am. I can't type fast with one hand but at least I can! I can hear Brian sleeping in the bedroom. I sure hope he gets the sleep he so needs. I see better nights because he deserves it!
This is general conference weekend, how cool is that! What a great day with the sun up so pretty.
I am trying to use my eye gaze and I am very slow. Hope its a long time before I have to use it!
Brian showered me today. [it feels great] Except I am too far forward so Brian is going to adjust the chair, or we'll get a new one. He also adjusted my arm rest, it was too high. This is my life.
By then my bladder woke up so I mumbled for Brian yet again. He gently picks me up out of bed and into my chair. I roll to the bathroom while my thoughtful Brian gets the toilet warmed up. He installed a Bayda which has that feature! How cool is that?
That is why I'm up early. Its not 6am any more its 8am. I can't type fast with one hand but at least I can! I can hear Brian sleeping in the bedroom. I sure hope he gets the sleep he so needs. I see better nights because he deserves it!
This is general conference weekend, how cool is that! What a great day with the sun up so pretty.
I am trying to use my eye gaze and I am very slow. Hope its a long time before I have to use it!
Brian showered me today. [it feels great] Except I am too far forward so Brian is going to adjust the chair, or we'll get a new one. He also adjusted my arm rest, it was too high. This is my life.
OUR TRIP TO WALLY WORLD
September 30, 2010. Yesterday, Tarra took me shopping for new garments and Wal-mart. Today it was the same, only Tarra was in a hurry. Well, a trip to the bathroom for me and 3 year old Kelsy in, you guest it, Wal-mart.
Tarra practically ran through the store while Kelsy and I struggled to keep up. Kelsy started holding onto my power chair a few days ago and today was no different. Well, going down the isle Kelsy spotted the pillow pets and stopped to look. Tarra kept on walking and soon disappeared. Kelsy and I started looking but a 3 year old in Wally World you would think it was Santa's workshop! Finally I told her to 'find mommy'. Next thing I hear “mommy where are you”? The more she said it the louder she got. People stared and I smiled, what a special girl, her parents have taught her well, and it worked, Tarra soon answered and all is well in Wally World.
Tarra practically ran through the store while Kelsy and I struggled to keep up. Kelsy started holding onto my power chair a few days ago and today was no different. Well, going down the isle Kelsy spotted the pillow pets and stopped to look. Tarra kept on walking and soon disappeared. Kelsy and I started looking but a 3 year old in Wally World you would think it was Santa's workshop! Finally I told her to 'find mommy'. Next thing I hear “mommy where are you”? The more she said it the louder she got. People stared and I smiled, what a special girl, her parents have taught her well, and it worked, Tarra soon answered and all is well in Wally World.
MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND BRIAN
Brian is a kind and gracious husband. Since my diagnosis in April 2008, he has been my hero, picking me up when I fall, dressed me, bathed me, wipe my many tears. The list is endless. By 2009 I was graduating from my walker to a power chair. Retirement soon followed with Brian so graciously taking me to an experts home to fill out the massive mountain of paperwork needed to accomplish this. After retirement, he started the remodeling to help me get around easier. Wooden floors, a nice ramp outside, a new bathroom. With help from Brian's brother Jerry, our sons Danny and Scott, our sons-in law Daniel and Scott, friends, neighbors and kind ward members, this big project was accomplished! Brian definitely knows the meaning of service. With both our dads passing away, Brian stepped to plate helping the needs of our dear mothers. Brian loves to golf, cook dutch oven, Geo-cashing with his kids and grandkids, traveling with his family. One of our favorite things to do when we travel is visit the closest temple and find the nearest cash. The purchase of a GPS unit has been worth its weight in gold. Most of his hobbies are on standby for a while and not even complain about that.
Brian loves the church, serving in his callings ever so willingly; with his last calling being cut short, that of high councilman. Our wise Stake Presidency seeing the need to take care of me. I am so thankful he honors his priesthood. I've had many wonderful blessings and so have the kids.
He doesn't just work at HAFB, he pours his heart and soul into his work and the war effort. Helping others understand their work as well as helping friends and family members get employment there. [including me] Retirement is planned for next summer, which is JULY 2011, yeah baby!
I am writing this September of 2010. It has been a stressful month for Brian. September is potato season which means truck and trailer loads full of 50 pound bagfuls not just once but three times; to fill potato orders for friends, family, coworkers. Not only that his 88 year old mother has been in an assisted living [very unwillingly]. With all the drama she created its taking its toll on him, and also his brothers Jerry from West Point and Roger from Seattle area. One positive note from this is that its brought us closer to Jerry and Roger. The long phone conversations have been so enjoyable as well as therapeutic for him. That old saying, “when moms happy, everyone is happy” has switched rolls to 'when dads happy everyone is happy'! Hence his stress is my tears.
It is coming up to October, may this month be less stressful for us we pray.
Brian loves the church, serving in his callings ever so willingly; with his last calling being cut short, that of high councilman. Our wise Stake Presidency seeing the need to take care of me. I am so thankful he honors his priesthood. I've had many wonderful blessings and so have the kids.
He doesn't just work at HAFB, he pours his heart and soul into his work and the war effort. Helping others understand their work as well as helping friends and family members get employment there. [including me] Retirement is planned for next summer, which is JULY 2011, yeah baby!
I am writing this September of 2010. It has been a stressful month for Brian. September is potato season which means truck and trailer loads full of 50 pound bagfuls not just once but three times; to fill potato orders for friends, family, coworkers. Not only that his 88 year old mother has been in an assisted living [very unwillingly]. With all the drama she created its taking its toll on him, and also his brothers Jerry from West Point and Roger from Seattle area. One positive note from this is that its brought us closer to Jerry and Roger. The long phone conversations have been so enjoyable as well as therapeutic for him. That old saying, “when moms happy, everyone is happy” has switched rolls to 'when dads happy everyone is happy'! Hence his stress is my tears.
It is coming up to October, may this month be less stressful for us we pray.
MY LOVE OF PROZAC
The first thing I can say is WHAT TOOK ME SO LONG! The kids and my husband will so agree with that! Raising 4 teenagers I could have used those happy pills. I got them shortly after my ALS diagnosis. At first, nothing bothered me. Not even almost crashing in Nancy Lyday's truck and Brian almost hitting some elk bother me. But when Brian started putting me on the toilet something came over me I can't explain. The giggles started; most of times went smoothly but Brian would crack a joke or if he set me on there funny or if he forgot something it was over. Brian had to leave the room until I stopped. We finally lowered the dosage and things improved a lot. Now I giggle just off and on. Prozac is history now. It was replaced by something I can't pronounce. But works great, it lets me close the tears faster and thats just fine.
MY STAY WITH MY SISTER KAREN
Last Wednesday, September 22, 2010 Brian did his yearly potato run. It's too hard for me to travel without my chair so I spent the day with my year and half year older sister, Karen. Oh boy! What a sweet and forgiving person! The day went fine, until feeding time. I got a feeding tube [another story] in June and boy was I ready! We had juice and what she had to do was use this 2 ounce syringe which wasn't a problem since she is a caregiver herself [she takes care of her husband Gene who had a stroke over 3 years ago] but she didn't know all the tricks of the tube to get the juice down and I couldn't help I was giggling! Its a good thing she got a towel cause the juice didn't want to go down very well. And I couldn't stop laughing, in fact to top it off my bladder couldn't hold it! Thats where the forgiving comes in. Along with that, somebody should have written her instructions on all this and more.
Karen read to me for a few hours that day and then we watched an old movie 'American Graffiti'. When we went to leave Karen couldn't get my computer off for the ride home. So the fiasco began but we were prepared for the heavy giggles. All I can say is Karen is an angel.
SHOPPING THESE LAST FEW YEARS
Shopping for me has never been the funnest for me. But when you add two wonderful grand kids going any where with them is an adventure. Little Joshua our only grandson, would let me hold his little hand at 7 months old when his mom and dad are driving. It always seemed to keep him calm. I'm in the back in my chair right between Kelsy and Josh. Kelsey is always good natured and fun to play with. She used to always ride on my lap but not so much now since I got my voice computer. She is always wanting to help me no matter what it is. One day this summer, my daughter Tarra took Josh, Kelsey and myself on some errands in the van. Tarra stopped to get the kids some food leaving me with the kids in the van. I dropped my pen or sunglasses, I can't recall, but sweet Kelsy unbuckled her booster seat and picked it right up for me risking discipline for unbuckling. Kelsy tried and tried to buckle back up but her 3 year old hands could not do it. So thinking grandma could help, Kelsy says; “come on gram ma move your hand right to the buckle” then she proceeded to pick up my poor useless right hand and all I could do was laugh! She did get talked to but in my ever failing voice came to her defense.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
MAY JOURNAL
May 9 2010
Kelsy fell backwards into my feet pedals and bumped her back and said sorry grandma. Then she started crying because it hurt. Daniel kissed it better and she said thank you daddy, then ran outside to play. Daniel said that is the power of kisses.
One morning Kelsy and Joshua were upstairs with only me. Joshua was playing with the dog food. This made Kelsy mad so she tried to put the dog food back in their bowl but Joshua just kept taking it back out onto the floor. So Kelsy got excited for reinforcements so she hollered mama, dada and took off on a mad dash for the stairs. She only made it to the gate before slipping on the wooden floor right on her back. A Kodak moment.
May 10, 2010
I love my kids. Yesterday was mothers’ day but every day is mother’s day for me because I can’t take care of myself anymore. Mandee and her husband Scott planted my flowers for me. They are so pretty. Tarra will fix my hair today which is a bonus for me. Daniel helps me every day. Yesterday he cooked steaks for everybody and built a fire in our pit out back. He keeps the lawn mowed and beautiful. Brian gave me a great shower and dressed me very well. The foot rubs are divine. The list is endless on what my caregivers do. Hence, every day is mother’s day!
May14, 2010
It’s Friday morning and I slept until ten am! My garden is growing! Tarra planted a zucchini, a cucumber, 4 red pepper plants, some cilantro and 2 tomato plants. My peas are coming up nicely. This reminds me that my dad always planted a big garden. He had a big area in the sunshine. He planted everything from corn to potatoes and everything in-between. One summer he actually grew pop corn and Indian corn. Both turned out great and his green thumb and love of gardening spilled over to all us kids. Last night Danny came over and brought Kaytlyne, Kortnie and Kennidy. He ordered pizza, his usual. But it was goooooooooooood. And we celebrated Kortnie’s 14th birthday.
May 19, 2010
This morning it was raining. Brian got me up early to shower. The shoes need to go, they are a hazard. Brian can get hurt when they fall off during transport. I could tell it was a bad morning for him. Bless his heart.
But the sun came up and the rain is gone now. Our dead pine tree in back has a birds nest on a broke off branch. It used to have a robin red breast there and I think a few eggs. But some bad weather came last week with heavy winds. She disappeared until this morning when Tarra and I spotted her taking her nest somewhere else bit by bit. It was so fun to watch. I really like sitting on our deck. I can hear a dove cooing.This reminded me of a plane trip I was on to Atlanta, Georgia and then Salt Lake City. I met a nice man who talked like Earnest from television fame. He told me a story I will never forget. He said he loved to watch birds and one morning he decided to climb a tree with his camera and get a picture of this beautiful blue bird. But bad luck befell this guy and he fell out of the tree right on his head. His wife helped him up and he was in such pain she took him to the emergency room. X-rays were taken and the doctor said he just sprained his neck and sent him to a chiropractor. For three months he went to the chiropractor but his neck still hurt. So they went back to the hospital for more tests. After the tests were done, this southern gentleman was surprised to have not one but 13 Doctors show up in his room. “Did you know you have a broken neck?" They said. "Well it’s about time," he said. And finally he could get better and he felt very lucky because he could get better; after all he broke his neck like ‘Superman’.
Kelsy fell backwards into my feet pedals and bumped her back and said sorry grandma. Then she started crying because it hurt. Daniel kissed it better and she said thank you daddy, then ran outside to play. Daniel said that is the power of kisses.
One morning Kelsy and Joshua were upstairs with only me. Joshua was playing with the dog food. This made Kelsy mad so she tried to put the dog food back in their bowl but Joshua just kept taking it back out onto the floor. So Kelsy got excited for reinforcements so she hollered mama, dada and took off on a mad dash for the stairs. She only made it to the gate before slipping on the wooden floor right on her back. A Kodak moment.
May 10, 2010
I love my kids. Yesterday was mothers’ day but every day is mother’s day for me because I can’t take care of myself anymore. Mandee and her husband Scott planted my flowers for me. They are so pretty. Tarra will fix my hair today which is a bonus for me. Daniel helps me every day. Yesterday he cooked steaks for everybody and built a fire in our pit out back. He keeps the lawn mowed and beautiful. Brian gave me a great shower and dressed me very well. The foot rubs are divine. The list is endless on what my caregivers do. Hence, every day is mother’s day!
May14, 2010
It’s Friday morning and I slept until ten am! My garden is growing! Tarra planted a zucchini, a cucumber, 4 red pepper plants, some cilantro and 2 tomato plants. My peas are coming up nicely. This reminds me that my dad always planted a big garden. He had a big area in the sunshine. He planted everything from corn to potatoes and everything in-between. One summer he actually grew pop corn and Indian corn. Both turned out great and his green thumb and love of gardening spilled over to all us kids. Last night Danny came over and brought Kaytlyne, Kortnie and Kennidy. He ordered pizza, his usual. But it was goooooooooooood. And we celebrated Kortnie’s 14th birthday.
May 19, 2010
This morning it was raining. Brian got me up early to shower. The shoes need to go, they are a hazard. Brian can get hurt when they fall off during transport. I could tell it was a bad morning for him. Bless his heart.
But the sun came up and the rain is gone now. Our dead pine tree in back has a birds nest on a broke off branch. It used to have a robin red breast there and I think a few eggs. But some bad weather came last week with heavy winds. She disappeared until this morning when Tarra and I spotted her taking her nest somewhere else bit by bit. It was so fun to watch. I really like sitting on our deck. I can hear a dove cooing.This reminded me of a plane trip I was on to Atlanta, Georgia and then Salt Lake City. I met a nice man who talked like Earnest from television fame. He told me a story I will never forget. He said he loved to watch birds and one morning he decided to climb a tree with his camera and get a picture of this beautiful blue bird. But bad luck befell this guy and he fell out of the tree right on his head. His wife helped him up and he was in such pain she took him to the emergency room. X-rays were taken and the doctor said he just sprained his neck and sent him to a chiropractor. For three months he went to the chiropractor but his neck still hurt. So they went back to the hospital for more tests. After the tests were done, this southern gentleman was surprised to have not one but 13 Doctors show up in his room. “Did you know you have a broken neck?" They said. "Well it’s about time," he said. And finally he could get better and he felt very lucky because he could get better; after all he broke his neck like ‘Superman’.
My attempt to open the door
Saturday Sept. 21st was a typical weekend morning with poor Brian being dead to the world because he works so hard. That week was tiring because he took two trips to Grace, Idaho getting truck loads of potatoes for family, friends and neighbors. So he gets me up and I try my best to be quiet. But 2 little poodles are scratching at the back of our deck wanting to come in. So I try my darndest to open the door and let them in. MY left arm is getting weaker so it only opened a little but not completely. So I TRY to think what I could do to use my strong power chair to open the door. A little rope would work good and so would an old belt. Not wanting to wake Brian I THOUGHT I COULD use a plastic bag. So I thought wrong, and the bag just split apart. SO my very imaginative brain tells me to use my bra. SO I hook one arm hole to my chair and the other to the door handle. IT worked beautifully and the door OPENED! But the bra got stuck in my chair controls rendering my chair useless. Brian finally woke up and came to my rescue . LAUGHING of course. BRIAN is my hero and I AM BLESSED!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Fill The Boot!!
MDA Fill the Boot kick off campaign. After asking Colleen to be a star last year during the MDA telethon, she was asked to help with some fundraisers. She was the guest of honor last August at an Ogden Raptors MDA night where she got to throw out the first pitch. She was asked to help kick of the fill the boot campaign this year. She has a wonderful attitude that everyone she meets picks up on.
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| Colleen was asked by MDA to be the guest of honor at the Sunset City fire department "Fill the Boot for MDA" kick off campaign. It was just a mile west of this fire station that Colleen met Brian for the very first time on the softball field at Clinton Elementary some time in May of 1974. We went on our first date, May 18th 1974 and have been together ever since that first date. |
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| Aunt Karen came to help out and take pictures for the family. |
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| Kelsy and Joshua practicing to be in a future parade. They were looking for candy to throw. |
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| Why does Bobo always get the drivers seat? |
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| How's this for a parade wave? |
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| Will this do instead of throwing candy? |
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| Bobo already has his sights set on being a fireman. Wouldn't you? |
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| One more picture and then we have to go talk to the fire fighters. |
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| Do we have to go, we like it up here! |
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| Why couldn't they have put that ladder on this end of the firetruck? |
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| Okay, since you have cookies inside for us, we will get off the truck and go inside with you. |
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| Colleen laughing at the comment she just had her voice machine direct to the group. |
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| Bobo looking for his favorite firefighter, where is she? |
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| Brian explains all that MDA does to help not only ALS patients, but also how every dollar helps out in the local area for all persons afflicted with one of the Nero-muscular diseases that MDA works with. |
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| Bobo, you can't be a real fire fighter without your hat on! |
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