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
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