Welcome to Château Benoit

9-11

2010-09-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

On this day of 9-11-2010, I thought I would share the piece that was sent around the country and the world to let people know that we will not be beat down! This piece was done on 9-11-01

Happy Valentines

2010-02-08T10:54:00.000-08:00

For my Beautiful Wife, who I owe all that I am, I gave this kind of Artsy Rose in a Vase. I had the idea from something I saw on TV, but I figured it out all on my own. Nice suprise for my sweetheart.
-Love Rudy

My Nightime Work

2009-05-19T01:25:00.000-07:00

Well, I am up in the night, "ha ha" now that is a play on words, but I am so proud of all the changes Carol has made to the blog. I did add the Osmond music, it's a surprise for her. You can even watch an Osmond video from way back when the Osmonds debuted in Disneyland. You can stop or pause the music. You also can go forward or backwards in the music list by using your up or down arrows and clicking with your mouse to play the song.
-Enjoy, we will when we see Donny and Marie!!!!!!!!!!
-Rudy

We made History / Wicked Step-Mother Day

2009-05-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

I guess we made history yesterday. You will never find it in a history book, but only on the records of the Church. We are now members of the new Pleasant Grove Utah West Stake or is it Pleasant Grove West Utah Stake? Either way, you get the picture. A new stake was made by taking six or seven wards from two other stakes and making this new one. All of the speakers kept saying what a historic this day was and I believe what my church leaders say. But we must not be the only new stake organized yesterday with the way the Church is growing!!!
Bishop Able is now President Able. He was called to be the second counselor. I need to find out for sure the name of the new president and other counselor. That means we will getting a new Bishopric. With this change and Bro. Valletta moving it will be a good time for it.

I heard of a new thing on TV today. They called it "Wicked Step-Mother's" day. Right up my alley, if ya get my drift. Instead of trying to visit every one's in-laws and out-laws on Mother's Day, Step-Mothers celebrate on the Sunday after Mother's Day. (I guess you could do the same for Step-Fathers too). I am going to tell Rudy we need to celebrate this day, since I am one, of course...(a wicked step-mother, among other things!!!) Sounds like a plan. So all you wicked Step-Mothers out there UNITE and let's all have a party! Oops...I think we are a day late. Oh well, any excuse for a party!!!

We are getting ready to go to Las Vegas to see Donny and Marie!!!! I knew Rudy would come through...he always does. They are performing at the Flamingo, so that is where we will be staying. It will just be easier for us to stay at the same hotel. I know one thing for sure, Rudy will want to go to the Star Trek adventure at the Hilton. Yes folks, he is a semi-Trekkie, or one in training, because we haven't been to the new movie yet. It opened last weekend and we are a little slow. Really, I guess it is me dragg'ng my feet. I have been a little bit lazy. My knee hurts pretty bad and it is easier not to walk a lot....and we are going to Vegas???? Can you say electric scooter??? I have rented one and it will be waiting at the hotel when we get there. It will be so much better on both of us if I can scoot along!!! Someday I hope not to have this problem!!! I was checking out the rentals on line and they say that even healthy people are renting scooters in Las Vegas, because you walk so much and it is pretty inexpensive to rent a scooter!! Imagine that. I would be so thankful to be able to walk!!!! Though, I am glad that I have this alternative now,when I need it.

Night Ramblings and Dental Trauma

2009-05-15T21:42:00.000-07:00

So we made it through another Mother's Day. Ray and Paula invited us to dinner. We had a wonderful Mom's day feast. It was so nice to be with family and we had a very good time. Mother was there and it was nice to honor her. Paula read an inspirational story that added to the spirit of the day. Thanks to the Coddingtons. You done did good.

Mother had shoulder surgery on May 5th. It was on her rotator cuff and ligaments. The doctor was unable to do all he wanted to do. She had probably injured it so long ago that is was unrepairable. So he cleaned a bunch of gunk out and that was it. The doc said she was a tuff old girl to go through the pain for so long. He need not tell us, because we already knew she was a tuff broad. You rock Mom. She is doing so much better, and healing well. We thank the Lord above for blessing her so much.

This week Rudy went under the knife...I guess it was more like the drill! He went to the dentist. She told him his mouth was on "fire" and there were a few places they needed to put the fire out immediately. He had to have one tooth extracted. The dentist decided it was a 5th wisdom tooth. I always knew he was full of wisdom...but I just assumed it was in his brain and not his mouth. He is still swollen and his one little cheek looks like a chipmunk cheek!!! He had some other "fires" put out and has to go back for more work. I don't think he minds, because we have a female dentist and all of the assistants look like models. No kidding they are all beautiful and fun and oh so nice. He even told the one assistant he didn't mind coming to the dentist with all the pretty girls they had working there. Guess I will be going to the dentist with him all the time to watch and keep him in line... hahaha :)... I told Dr. Jorgenson she could hit him with his cane if he got out of line. I really felt bad for him. He looked like he had gone through "H E double hockey sticks". He had blood all over his mouth and the pouty eyes. It made me sad...they can hurt me, but not my Rudy!!! He is my sweetheart forever and ever!!!! I love him and I'm glad he is feeling better after the dentist trauma. You Rock Rudy!!!!

Mother's Day tomorrow!

2009-05-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it is Mother's Day tomorrow and I am so grateful I have a wonderful mother. My parents are the best! I am glad we have a day to honor our Mothers (and Fathers too). But, I must admit I kinda have a hard time on this day...because I have not been blessed to be a mother. People always say there are many ways of mothering other than just giving birth. And, I guess there is a lot more to being a mother than just giving birth. Still I can imagine there is nothing better than having a little one look into your eyes and say "I love you Mommy". There cannot be anything better when your child comes home with a dandelion and says "I picked this flower just for you." I think there probably is nothing better than getting a hug and a kiss goodnight. How a mother must feel when she sees her child's firsts like...their step, a lost tooth, first day at school or even a date. A mother's heart must swell when she sees her child's accomplishments like high school and college graduation, a mission and temple marriage. It must be wonderful when a mother's child has a child of their own, and hears the word "Grandma"! One day the Lord, I hope, will see fit to give me the honor of being a mother, but until then...thank you, all of you mothers out there who let me share a little of your child's love. To all those mothers I know, you are the best!!! Thanks for raising your children the way you do. They are our future and I know we will be in good hands. Thanks for all of your sacrifice and struggles. Thanks for going through the challenges of dirty little faces, dirty diapers, dirty little hands and showing me that at the end of the day you still give love unconditionally. You are truly an example of Christ-like love.
And last but not least, thanks to my Mother. You have loved me through good and bad, thick and thin, and sickness and health. You have taught me through words and example. I love you, Mother. May God bless you always.

Earth Day and other Carol Sagas

2009-04-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

Hip Hip Hooray!!! It was Earth day on Wednesday. I guess I am not a very "green" person, as so many people are, but I did do my best to plant a tree yesterday. I went to the movie. "The movie" you say, how can that be earth friendly or tree planting"? " Well, I say back, it was the new Disney movie...Earth". Anyone who goes to this movie in the first week, will have a tree planted in their honor. So there!!! How many of you planted a tree this week? Not many I bet!!! Yes, we finally made it to the movies this week. We have not been to the movies in about a gazillion years. Rudy wanted to see this movie so bad, so I gave in and went...(my motivation---can you say popcorn??!!) As you know I loves my popcorn!!! Anyway back to the movie...it was along the lines of Planet Earth, that was on TV. I really did enjoy it, but I would have liked to seen something a little different. Anywho, we went and that is a big accomplishment for us couch potatoes ( or is it potatos without the e...ask Dan Quail...who is he you youngsters may ask...he was Vice-President of the United States!!! and there was this big scandal about how to spell potato or potatoe) however, I digress (what does "digress mean???). We did get out of the house on a beautiful spring day and got some fresh air!!! We had a fun day and it was good as always to be with my Rudy.

After the movie we went to eat at Rib City in AF. They have the best sirloin steak and I am a steak and POTATO (?E or no E, that is the question...spellcheck says no E. Just a little attempt at humor there...a very little attempt!!!) I digress again (by the way...digress means to leave the main subject temporaily in a speech or writing.) kind of gal. We saw Tony the owner and she talked with us for a bit. Her brother is Vincent Di'Nofrio(sp) of "Law and Order: Criminal Intent" fame. Rudy has been begging her for a photo with an autograph, because anything "Law and Order", he worships. She said she had a pic for us and gave it to Paula. Somewhere, somehow he did not get it. So he bugged her again and she is going to get another one for him. Long story to tell how much I loved eating at Rib City!!!!

Do you want to hear another saga? If not, don't read on. This is a warning...BEWARE OF ONCOMING SAGA!!!!! I guess it is not really a saga, just another example of what a big mouth I have!!! Sarah Larsen and Lisa Ramey (thanks Ladies) invited me to lunch with them and some other of the youngsters in our ward. We went to Olive Garden.( I also love the OG.) So I decided since they invited me I would go. I wondered why they wanted an oldie moldie like me to tag along. Anyway we had a very nice lunch and had some fun conversation. It was a really nice lunch with some really nice ladies. (I would call them girls, but they are all cute little Mommys).
At the end we ( I mean me) got a little silly. What did they put in that frozen raspberry lemonade?? I was thinking of what Rudy calls me (in jest), when I get all "gussed" up with all my jewelery and stuff on, when right then and there I said it in my "out-loud" voice!!! Slap my hand over my mouth would someone, please. They must think I am a real slug and that Rudy is one too. How embarrassing!!!! And no I am not going to say it here!!! clue---W_ _ _ _ of Babylon!!! In any event they laughed hysterically. I hope they know he just calls me that to tease me. Still I need to sew my mouth shut or at least have a filter. However, I guess when you think about it, it is kind of funny. When will I ever learn...never!! Anyway this is who we are and ya gotta love us or think we are wierd or I guess you could do both! and if you don't you are missing a good laugh now and then. We are quite entertaining!!!

I just re-read this whole post and I do "digress" a whole lot!!! I guess focussing is not one of my strong points!!!

Thoughts and other Ramblings!!

2009-04-20T17:05:00.000-07:00

I hope we are so through with spring snow. Yes, I said snow!!! Last week we had about 8 inches of snow. Right in the middle of April. Maybe it was because it was tax day, who knows. There's a lot of snow in them there hills. I just hope we do not get any flooding. This week sounds like it is going to be a wonderful springish type week. I cannot wait. I love spring and all the new little flowers and the new baby animals and all that new clean fresh air!!! I have had a cold for over a week and it seems to keep hanging on. Is sunshine a cure for the common cold? It must be, because I am feeling much better this afternoon. Sunny days just seem to lighten my mood. I looked out at the beautiful day and just had to say, "Hello gorgeous!"(My imitation of Barbra Streisand in Funny Girl...I love that movie).

Because of the cold thing and other sundry problems (just what does sundry mean?), we didn't make it to Stake Conference. I guess you could say we "called in sick". That would be something if you had to call in sick for church. I wonder if we would get more people to church??? It's a thought.... I hate a week to go by without going to church. I sat in my recliner and read the Ensign and some other uplifting stuff. But, it is not like the real thing. Rudy has now got the dreaded cold. So I hope that means he will not be giving it back to me, but I am not counting on it. I will keep thinking Vitamin C, D and all the rest of them vitamins and cross my fingers.

Tomorrow I think I will open the windows and get some of that wonderful fresh air in the house. That is one of the best smells, right up there with home-made bread. Oh by the way, FYI... sundry (sun-dree) means various problems not important enough to mention each one individually. Not to be confused with sun-dry (sun-dri) which is to dry in the sun, like sun dried tomatoes (not to be confused with fried green tomatoes). I knew what it meant (hence I used it properly in a sentence) all along, but was just test'ng ya'all. Did ya pass??? It was a little blog humor...!

Since going to Hawaii, I have been wanting to go on another vacation...a little shorter this time however!! I really would like to go to Las Vegas and see Donnie and Marie at the Flamingo. That is what I would like for my birthday (hint hint Rudy). I checked it out and it is a family friendly show and the tickets range from "not to much", to, "we need to sell the house range". I would like to get tickets in the "somewhere in between" range. Actually they really are affordable for Las Vegas and you can get rooms that look pretty nice for about $55.00 a night during the week. (at the Flamingo). Sounds so fun to me. If there is anyone out there that wants to go with us, let us know. (because Rudy loves me so much, I know he will get tickets for me. He is such a wonderful husband and such a good Rudy!!! he is my knight in shining armour and my Prince Charming...do ya think I got him buttered up enough???? Rudy is a good guy for sure and I really don't need to butter him very much!!! And he is truly all of that to me. So if anyone wants to go to Vegas....

Easter and other boring days

2009-04-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

Well, we had quite a boring Easter weekend. No parties, no egg hunts, no wonderful Easter dinner. We are such slugs. Pemberley had an egg hunt on the Sat. before and we slept in. We were to lazy to get up and go watch all the little chicks find the eggs. No one in the family even had a party, at least one we were invited to. Who knows they may have been partying hardy for all we would know. Easter Sunday was a very spiritual one for me. I set my mind to think and ponder the reason for this season, and it worked. It was very inspirational for me. After church we went to see Mother and take her an Easter basket (bag). We bought her a couple of church books to read. I hope she likes them.

Rudy did come through for me however!!! As always, he is so thoughtful. My Easter basket this year was an adorable canvas bag with a bunch of useful goodies inside. This bag is so styling!!! It is way cute and it is so me. He also bought 3 other ones, so I can trade off. They are just right for my Sunday bag. It holds my scriptures, RS book, bottle of water and a few small toys for my little ones!! I have so many cute little Sunday friends, and I love them all. Of course we have to fit in the candies for all, why else would they be my friends. Also inside the bag o' Easter goodies Rudy had bought me a new brush and comb. I think he was sick and tired of seeing my old, dirty, hair filled ones. Of course they were in a red color!!! Then he had tucked in 3 church books. Just what I need for a lift of this depressed soul. He always knows what I need. I have read one already and have started on the second one. They are small and easy reads...just right!!! There was this cute, fuzzy little pink thing...come to find out it is a computer duster. It is soft and can clean in those tight computer places!!! Last but not least, he snuck in a bag of peanut M & M's and a can of almonds. I love almonds and they are good for you. I don't know how good the chocolate is but I am sharing so all's good.

Friday night we have a AF girls night out. Girls and their guys night out! We are meeting at Rib City, so we haven't got far to go. I love these monthly night outs!!! I wish we had some close friends to go out with, that live around us. Maybe we are too old for some and not old enough for others. Anyway, I wonder why we don't have closer friends. I guess everyone is busy with their own lives and we are just boring or slugs or something!!! Any suggestions on how I can make friends???? I have lots of friends, but not ones who ask us out to do things or to play games or whatever. Both of us do bathe every now and then!!!! Oh well!!! blah blah blah...woe is me!!!

This week is Stake Conference. We will just go over to our ward and not fight the crowds at the stake center. I hope to see some of my cutie patooties (is that how you spell it???) there. So it will only be 2 hours in church this Sunday...maybe the Rudster can stay awake. Just kidd'ng honey. Well I have complained enough for one night....until later!!!!

Rudy won't Cooperate!

2009-04-10T09:21:00.002-07:00

I have been wanting to write about our recent vacation but Rudy will not get the pictures down-loaded so I can blog about it. Guess I need to learn how to do it myself. First I need to find out where he keeps the camera.

We loved our cruise to Hawaii and time with Gordons in San Diego. But, I think it took a lot out of these 2 old codgers! We took along time to get back in the swing of things. I still don't know if we are fully recovered!!! But it was a much needed time away from home. I think when you go on vacation you get such an appreciation for the beautiful world our Heavenly Father has made. I also think you appreciate how good it is to be home. I know I really found out how thankful I am for our BED!!!

This weekend is Easter. It is suppose to be rainy. Not so good for Easter egg hunts, but wonderful for the water situation. We will be thankful for the ability to drink a cold glass of water this summer. Pemberley is having an Easter egg hunt Saturday morning. I love to watch all the little kiddies hunt for eggs. Hopefully it will hold off raining until after.

Easter is also a time to reflect on the Savior, his atonement and resurrection. Sometimes I get caught up in all the secular stuff and fail to remember what Easter is all about. This weekend I am going to keep in my mind the real reason we celebrate Easter.

Home Again

2009-03-17T15:08:00.000-07:00

Aloha!!!
Yes, we are home from Hawaii! We had a grand time! This trip was a very interesting and longer than usual for us. I will write more in my next post. I just needed to let y'all know we are safely home. We are cruise lagged!!! So we will rest up and then tell all about it!!

Getting Ready for HAWAII!!!

2009-02-22T06:10:00.000-08:00

I sure am excited about this trip, this will be fantastic.

Darn Computer

2009-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, I go to write a new post and I cannot get into my blog. What the hay!?!? It took Rudy and his skills to rectify the problemo! So here I am.

Just a few (4) more days until we leave for the "sun and fun". I still cannot believe we are even going anywhere. But, I better start believing and get my packing started. It is so hard to decide what to take and what not to take. We will be gone a long time and how do you know what you will feel like wearing? And how many shoes can you fit into the suitcase? If you ask me, you never can have enough shoes!!!! As for clothes, is it alright to wear the same thing more than once? For the sake of space I guess I will have to. (even though I would rather not) Traveling is so different the last little while. You cannot have a bag that weighs over a certain amount or you have to pay for it big time. If you have extra baggage you have to pay to check it! What do the airlines expect you to do???...pay for it!!!! I am going to stuff and stuff to get in everything I want, most likely I will be paying extra. What a pain and I can just hear Rudy now..."Why do you need so much?" Men just do not understand.

Every month, a bunch of high school friends of mine meet for dinner or lunch. We usually bring the hubbies along. Today is our Feb. day and I am excited. We are going to the OG (Olive Garden), one of Rudy's favorites. Also, I found Lori Bennett on facebook and she and Jeff will be joining us again...after a few years absence. I can't wait to see Lori and hear all about what has been going on in her life. We were such good and dear friends in elementary thru high school. I have to remember the camera!!! I really need to learn how to post pictures and not rely on the Rudster!

Last night Rudy and I watched the movie "Wall-E" for the first time. It was such a cute movie and I just fell in love with that little robot. It was a love story and I did not know that...at least I thought of it as a love story. All these animated movies are so well done now days. What an art. Animation is mostly what we watch. We have recently seen Madagascar 2. I love those little penguins in that movie!!! And the song..."I love to move it, move it" is such a catchy one. We are singing it all the time!!! I guess we are in our second childhood. Oh well, at least we are having fun and can remember it!!!

I Just can't Wait, I can hear the Music and the waves now...

2009-02-16T17:48:00.001-08:00

Aloha! HAWAII HERE WE COME...

2009-02-16T17:46:00.000-08:00

Back Again

2009-02-16T17:39:00.000-08:00

My sweet Rudy!!!! He is responsible for the Hawaiian pictures and music. I think he is a little excited for our upcoming vacation, don't you? I have to admit I am excited also. I cannot believe we are going. I guess I won't believe it until we are on the plane to San Diego!!

I have been neglectful of my blog. I have really been facebooking (is that even a word) so much lately that I have forgotten to blog. Catching up on what has been happening is a very hard task, but I will put my memory cap on and try to think what's been up.

While sitting and doing what I love...reading...I was chewing some gum and all of a sudden my tooth broke apart and half fell out of my mouth. Oh no!!! Just what I did not need. I had heard about a female dentist and called to see if I could get in. They got me in right away. At first she thought I might need a root canal, so I needed to come in the next day to get that taken care of. Might I just say here, I have never been to a female dentist and I thought she (Dr. Michelle Jorgenson) was excellent!!! It is kinda like going to a female gynecologist, they just get you. Not only that, she gave a dang good deadening shot!! Upon further drilling and pounding and irrigating and suctioning, Dr. Jorgenson decided I did not need a root canal. Hooooray!!! But with good news sometimes there is bad...the tooth next to the broken one, had a big cavity so it would need a crown just like it's sister!!! Well long story short...I have the temporary crowns on now and will get the perms on the day before we leave on vacation. She made sure I would be permanent to go. What a good dentist!! I highly recommend her if you want and need a good dentist! She is great and the staff is just as wonderful. They have a bread maker in the office and make home-made bread...just imagine the smell!!! What a cosy, homey little office. I like to go to the dentist now. (No more hairy men's fingers in the sterile gloves coming at your mouth...I swear I must have had the most hairiest handed dentists!!!and I hated the matted finger hair in those gloves...gag me!!)

We just celebrated Valentine's Day a couple of days ago. Of course, my sweetheart was very good to me!! When is he not???? A few days before Rudy came home from one of his "errands" with a string of pearls. He had accidentally left the price tag on the bottom of the box. I could have strangled him when I saw it. Too much money to even say here!!! He assured me he did not pay that much. I made him pinkie swear, so I am pretty sure he didn't!! The next day he brought home some pearl earrings to go with the necklace. They are so beautiful. I told him he shouldn't have, but I am really glad he did!!! On Friday he sent me flowers!! The biggest, bestest, good smelling bouquet!! There were roses, carnations, lilies and other kinds of flowers. It smelled so good and still is as beautiful today as it was then. Next it was my turn. I told him I would take him out to dinner. (I also made a homemade card). I know his favorite place is OG (Olive Garden). We thought we would go early to beat the dinner crowd, but after lunch. I guess everyone else had the same idea. We had to wait 1 hour and 10 minutes to be seated. But, it was worth the wait, because I know he loves it so!! I am glad we went when we did, cuz when we left it was over a 2 hour wait!!! After OG, he wanted to take me to Karma (my favorite jewelery store in the world) He wanted me to get some new charms and with charms you need a new charm necklace. He just kept showing me things I loved and said "Get it, don't worry"! Needless to say I left with so many new things. He spoils me so much.

While at Karma we found a mother charm and a neat crystal and pearl necklace for Mother! We had planned on giving it to her for her birthday, but could not wait, so we took it to her that night. She loved it and was excited (not only for the present, but to see us!). We had such a nice visit. So good time was had by all!!!

Indeed my Rudy is such a sweetheart. I love him so much. He treats me like a queen!! I am so glad I will be with him for eternity. He is my rock and my guide. We have such a good time and laugh a lot. We have silly games we play and just have a plain good time. And yes, Amber, if you read this, he has juicy lips and I love to kiss him!!! I thank my Heavenly Father everyday for my Rudy!!!!

Dennis

2009-02-07T09:54:00.000-08:00

Here is a recent Pic of Our Grandson Dennis Playing Hockey, He is the one in Blue-going a mile a minute!!!!!!...Go Dennis!!!!!!

Catching Up

2009-02-06T14:40:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness! It has been ages since I did the blogo thing!!! To much fun riding around in the nice ride. We definitely love our new car. At first Rudy didn't want to drive it cuz, "he didn't want to break it." But now he can't be stopped, of which I am glad. I love to drive it also. It is fun and so smoooottthhhh!!! You can hardly hear the motor running. It has been so nice to have a brand new car. Nothing like the new car smell!!

Lately I have been doing the facebook thing. I have found lots of friends on it, old and new. It has been fun to see the pictures of family and friends. I think this computer thing can get addicting. I have to watch myself. Oh well.

I decided it was finally time to catch up on my blog so here goes...Life has been very busy and that has been good and bad. It keeps us on our toes, but at the end of the day, our toes are not the only thing that hurts and is tired. But it does keep my mind off my aches and pains and I can sleep through the pain.

We have planned a vacation. Can you believe it??? We can't!! It has been about five years, at least, since our last one. Jennie Gordon, our good friend lives in San Diego, so we decided--- after her encouragement--- to go see her and her family for a few days. We leave the latter part of the month. I am so excited to see her and have a good visit, like we used to do once a week (not counting church, book club etc), before we both moved from SLC. She is going to be our tour guide while we are there. Shamu here we come!!!

After visiting in San Diego we will leave on a 15 day cruise to HAWAII!!! 15 days on a slow boat to Hawaii. What more could we want! We will visit the big island of Hawaii, Maui and Oahu. We decided to go all out and get a mini suite with a veranda. I can see us sitting out on the balcony with a glass of something tasty(non-alcoholic of course) and reading a good book while catching some rays. This sounds like heaven to me. I will believe it when we are on the ship in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Well, actually it was real when we wrote the check for all of it. But enough about money. You only live once (on this earth) so go for it!!! It is all paid for and who wants to think about dollars when we will have so many other wonderful memories of Paradise together??? Rudy is getting us in the mood by playing all sorts of Hawaiian music (can you say Elvis and Don Ho) I am so excited for him. I have been there and he has not. His excitement makes me more excited. I cannot wait to see him do the hula!!! Having been on many a cruise, we know what is in store. Sun, fun, rest, relaxation and all the food you could ever want and it is all paid for in advance. Can you tell we are both excited??? YAHOOOOOOO

Exciting News

2009-01-15T19:15:00.000-08:00

Remember from the last post how much I loved that cute little red car? That cute little red car in now parked in our garage. Yes! We bought little red! It is a 2009 Nissan Versa. I have named it Vissa...you know, Vissa Versa...(I don't know if that is how you spell it)...V-eye-saw, is how you sound it out...lol... or you could do it like Vice-saw. Ok stop. Enough about it's name!!! She is so cute and so little, compared to the Jimmy. I was sad seeing Jimmy left behind, sitting in the parking lot, as we drove off into the sunset. I bought that car new in 1993. He took me through many a snow storm. I know I would not have gotten anywhere without Jimmy. I remember when I bought him, all my friends made fun that I had a new "fire-truck". But they weren't laughing when we got into 4-wheel drive and made it through the snow!!! I truly got my moneys worth from good old Jimmy. We had fun times and went lots of places. It pulled the trailer on many camping trips, and took us on many adventures. Thanks Jimmy for all the good times. You served us well!!!

Onward and upward. I know we will have good times in Vissa!! I can feel it!!! We (Rudy and I)are both so excited and happy we were able to buy her. And, our financial advisor would be so proud of us. Long story short...We checked out a lot of other kinds of cars, (Honda, Toyota, Chevy, Ford etc). We liked the Nissan the best. And lo and behold we had a message from Ken Garff's in Orem to come back and the "big boss" aka General Manager, wanted to talk with us and let us know what kind of deal he could give us. So after all day looking at many other cars, and a little discouraged I might add, we went to OREM! (remember the running joke, Orem=H-E-double hockey sticks). Boy did they change and did some serious crunching of the numbers. They offered a deal we couldn't pass up. With such a good deal, we could pay for the car out right, so no debt or car payments here. I know President Monson would be proud!!! We are very happy we have her safely home. It is almost like a dream. If you would of asked me a week ago if we would have a new car, I would have laughed my guts out!!! You just never know what is around the next corner. Life is so interesting and exciting, you just have to keep finding out! Sometimes it's not so good and some times it's not to bad, and sometimes it is unbelievable.
The secret is to just keep going when times are tough, and be so thankful when life is good!!

Thanks Pres. Monson

2009-01-14T06:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a very eventful day. First thing in the morning we had to take Aunt Lorraine to get her car inspected, oil changed, emissions etc. She likes to go to Gene Harvey Chevrolet where she bought her car. So I drove her and her car to the dealership. We got everything taken care of and while we were doing that my dear, sweetheart Rudy decided to check out the new cars. We had been talking about getting a new car, but I just thought it was talk. Well, anyway we liked the Aveo. It is a small little car that is suppose to get good gas mileage. Talk about sticker-shock!!! I guess you can tell we have not been shopping for cars for a very long time. I took a big breath...which was hard because of the red-alert inversion... and a big gulp. $29.000 dollars for this cute, TINY little car. No way, no how and I going to pay that much. Well, it burst my bubble. Dear Aunt Lorraine suggested we go out to breakfast. Who can turn down breakfast out? So we drowned our sorrows in syrup.

After eating we took Auntie home and went on our way to do some errands. While doing our many errands, Aunt Lorraine called to see if we would mind taking her to Wal-mart. So we finished running around and went back to A.F. to pick her up. I decided to stay in the car, because of the inversion and I wasn't breathing so good. She had said she wouldn't be very long, so I made myself comfortable. (Where is a book when I need one?) I would hate to see what her long was, because about an hour and a half later here they came. The Rudster is such a good sport to take her in and follow her and her walker around the store. "Kudos" to Rudy!!!! He just rolled his eyes and I knew not to ask any questions. After the Wal-mart shopping spree, we decided her car must be done. Off we went to the dealership to get it. When we got there, the Rudster when to check. Trauma time!!! They told him that her brother had picked it up. Knowing that Uncle Lyle lives in Arizona, he told them that was impossible! So they had to check again. They had made a mistake, which made us all about have a heart attack, thinking they had given her car to someone else. The car was done and parked around the back,. Trouble averted, we got her and her car safely home.

Still having the new car bug, we decided to go to Orem. We have a running joke at our house...instead of telling someone to go to H-E-double hockey sticks, we say they will be going to Orem. I know we are strange, but that is what makes us unique! We had been looking at a Nissan Versa, so we stopped off at Ken Garff's Nissan. Well, I found the car I loved. A brilliant RED one. It had the moon-roof package and all the bells and whistles you could want. We both fit really good in it...which is one of my fears about a little car, because we are not small dainty little things! The salesman new we both loved it. We went into the office to crunch some numbers. They didn't crunch the numbers at all. I guess they thought because we loved it so much we would buy it on the spot. The sales boss came and did some fancy car salesman talk and by the time he was through it was above sticker price. Rudy has to think things over and it was the first one we had looked at. So we told him we had to think it over. Well, you know those high-pressure salesman, but we stood our ground and said no way, not tonight and not for that price. He said he really wanted to sale a car and he would give us $500 more for the Jimmy. We were tempted, but Rudy said his financial advisor has told us not to get in debt. (President Monson...it went right over the sales manager's head when Rudy told him who his financial advisor was). Mr. "Slick" told us we would regret it in the morning (which I don't, I feel much better realizing what a jerk he was to us) and I almost told him to go to Orem! Oh, wait, he is in Orem. I think we might be making a trip to Sandy, Murray and SLC. I also think we might want to check out some other makes and models. Dang it, I still love that little red Versa!!! Like I said, "What a day."

Pics of Jack

2009-01-11T20:45:00.000-08:00

We watched Jack Mac for a little while, when his mother had some RS business. He is such a cute little guy! I love his chubby cheeks. They are so kissable. We were sitting on the sofa reading when we remembered we had our camera. Rudy flew into get it so we could take some candids of Jack. We had a good time reading all the books and pulling the toys out of the toy bag. He loves to watch the fishy and have Rudy feed the fish. It seems his favorite book that day was"Finding Nemo". He kept saying "Nemo" in his little Jack voice. Fun was had by all.

Speaking of fish. Our Leon fishy died. Rudy gave him the "Royal Flush". I could not watch because I felt so sad. It is weird how attached you can get to a little fish. It must be heartbreaking when you lose a dog or cat that has lived with you for years. (M. Ovard's Darcy, Helene Davis' little Anna, or Smith's Rolly...just a few examples) Anyway Rudy sent our little Leon. on the water slide of his life or death I guess it is. The next dayRudy came home with a new little beta fish which we named Seymour. We had been singing "Suddenly Seymour" from the movie "Little Shop of Horrors", for some odd reason...who knows why. So it just kind felt like that would be his name. So I guess his official name is Suddenly Seymour Benoit. Rudy calls him anything and everything like "son" or "boy" and once in a while Seymour. I just usually call him "fishy". The poor fish will have an identity crisis before to long. Rudy bought him a new house...it is not a bowl...that has a pump and a light in it (it is kind of triangle shaped). He also bought a bridge to go with the old helmut and plant from the old bowl. I am really glad Seymour has a new home. I would not be able to see him living in the old bowl Leon died in. Yuck. We also moved him up on the counter instead of the table. His house is just to big and has too many accessories. All this talk about a fish. My-o-my! Good luck Seymour...we have been known to boil our beta fish before...can you say Magellen?? (Jelly for short). Long story...if you want to know the whole story about the" Benoit boiling incident", we would be embarrassed (but willing) to tell you.

Just Jack

2009-01-07T12:07:00.000-08:00

Jack

Say Cheese!

Oh My Goodness!!!

2009-01-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe my last post was on Christmas Eve. How last year!!! So much has happened since then. We had a wonderful Christmas. Santa brought us everything we wanted and even more!! I guess we were very good during the year. It was nice to spend time with family and friends. As usual Jane had wonderful food prepared! We ate both breakfast and dinner there. She is a great cook. From turkey to ham and salads to desserts, we had everything. Thanks Janie!! We spent some time at Mother's and Ray's homes. I love being around family. I think Rudy took some pictures and I need to get him to post them. I have no idea where he keeps the camera. It was suppose to be Christmas for both of us. I think he must think I will break it or something. Who knows? Something wonderful did happen Christmas morning...our adopted grandkids (Alli and Blake) called to thank us for their Christmas gifts. To hear their cute little voices telling us they loved the presents made our day!!!!

It snowed all day on Christmas and seems like it has snowed ever since. Yesterday it snowed all day. We have had lots of snow storms and the snow gets deeper and deeper! The roads just get cleared and then they are snowy again. I am certainly glad I don't have to travel far. I can just sit home and watch it snow and snuggle with a good book...I got several for Christmas, no shortage here!

We did not do anything for New Year"s Eve. It was pretty boring. Rudy fell asleep at about 10:30pm, so at midnight, I quietly said "Happy New Year" to myself. After about an hour of channel-surfing, I went to bed. Fun was had by all...NOT!!! Come to think of it, we have never done to much on New Year's Eve. We have been to a few small parties and we did go to a "First-Night" party in SLC. It was so cold and not to fun. Many, many times I have been on call that night and rang the New Year in with hospital patients and ornery Radiologists. That is how we rang in the new century...on our way home from the hospital, we stopped up in the aves to watch the fireworks...what a fun way to bring in 2000!!!

Santa brought me so many card making goodies, I had to make room and re-organize my whole office space. What a good reason to organize. I got so many cute things, it is hard to decide what to use first. I spent the morning making B-day cards for Relief Society. I think I have lost my knack!!! I need to get some new inspiration!!! :( I got a new machine for digital craft cutting. It is called the "Silhouette". :))) It is kind of like the Cricket cutting system from Provo craft, except you can hook it up to the computer and down load any kind of shape etc. Rudy has set it up for me, I just need to learn how to use it. It looks like it is not to hard, but for me, who knows. (I break cameras, remember :0 hahaha oh no!!!)

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

Well it is Christmas Eve and I am waiting for Rudy to come home from the store. We needed to buy some milk etc. for Christmas breakfast at Jane's. We always have breakfast at her home, and we always bring the milk, OJ and choco milk. It has been one of those "perdition" things. (Terek used to say perdition instead of tradition). I hope Rudy gets home soon because we have neighbor gifts to take around...I wanted to last night, but as you can see Rudy got his way. I cannot believe it is Christmas eve already. December has flown by so fast. Where has it gone. I guess with all the shopping, candy making, visiting and parties, I have lost track of the time. The older I get the faster the years go by!!!
I wish for everyone a very Merry Christmas. I hope we will not forget the "reason for the season", and remember the birth of the baby in Bethlehem. May we keep the joy of the season in our hearts all year long!

MERRY CHRISTMAS !!

If I only had a Brain!

2008-12-21T18:15:00.000-08:00

I think I need to go see the old Wizard of Oz and get me a new Brain...me and the Scarecrow!!! Yesterday was filled with shopping day and night! Not again, you may be saying!!! Oh yes, it is true. However, we didn't go at 2:30 in the morning, only from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm. Then off again at 10:00pm. You would think I would learn a lesson. I guess, I have to learn the hard way. Good thing it was Sunday today, so we had a time limit last night! Midnight was the curfew, so we pulled into the garage at 12:30.( It took us a few minutes to get home ). I have asked myself, why do I put myself through this torture. I have no reasonable explanation. I thought you were suppose to get smarter with age????? Apparently, not me. You see for the last few years, we didn't have a lot of extra money. Now that Rudy is getting his SS we have a little more. Not much, but we have been saving, so we can get each other Christmas presents this year. The last four years we decided to forgo presents for each other, so we could get presents for family and friends. It was much simpler then! None of this crazy shopping all day and all night! I focused more on the reason for the season, back then. I think this year I have gone way over-board! Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy getting Rudy surprises for Christmas. It is so fun to see his face on Christmas morning, opening presents. And to be honest with you I like getting presents too! But this year I have been so focused on the gift buying and not the gift that Heavenly Father gave to me. Even though it is better to give than receive, I am going to focus on the gift of my Savior and receive him in my heart this Christmas season. Without his birth we would not have the Savior's life or Atonement. There is no better gift to receive than the gift of eternal life. Maybe you can teach an old dog a new trick, or least an old codger like me. I think I have definitely learned my lesson this Christmas season.

We are NUTS!!!

2008-12-19T15:09:00.000-08:00

You might say we are certifiably crazy! We are looney toones, nutso bravo, insane and a bunch of other things. We had an adventure last night. We had a quick nap in the early evening and then got out of bed and messed around with the new camera and Rudy's new iPod thingie (which he opened before Christmas...bad boy, no tacos for you!..now he won't have anything to open on Christmas morning). We played around until about 2:30am. We had planned from the beginning to go shopping in the middle of the night (morning) all along, but I didn't think Rudy would go along with the plan. So at 2:45 we left for the all night shopping spree! This was our "black Friday", only we didn't wait out in the cold and we had the store all to ourselves. I swear I didn't see anyone else in the store, except employees. We went to the Lindon Wal-Mart at 2:45 in the morning!!! Now think about that. Carol and Rudy Benoit going shopping in the middle of the night. It blows your mind, right? Well, it blows mine!! We just don't do anything like that. We decided to live a little and besides there are no crowds to contend with. There are some pros and cons with this adventure...if you know what you want or just want to browse it is great. If you have any questions, forget it. Those employees don't know anything about anything. I guess they mostly clean-up and restock the shelves etc. We pretty well knew what we wanted so we didn't have to bad of a time. We went up and down and all around until I was no longer in the adventurous mood. It was stink'ng 6:00am. Three hours is all about I could handle! I was dang tired. When we got home, I took my water pill and went directly to bed. I slept for about one and a half hours, before the pill kicked in. When I got up, I had a second wind. But, Rudy did not take a nap, he has been up since we got home this am. Can you believe it? I cannot!!! He had to go over all we bought, and made sure we got all on our list (and more, I might add). Then back to the iPod Touch thingie. He is obsessed with it! But as I recall the last hundred years we have been married, he gets so excited around Christmas time...remember the post where I explained he has to show me what he bought for me???? I think he will soon crashing. He really needs to rest, because tomorrow he is doing the "elf" thing again for a ward in Lehi. But, I might be going again tonight with CJ, Ardis and Sarah. We will have to see if I can open my eyes. To think about going again, I must really be out of my mind!!!! It was fun and oh what an adventure we can laugh about in the future!!! Ya gotta love it!

Snow for Christmas

2008-12-18T13:35:00.001-08:00

It has been snowing all day! I am so glad we do not have to go anywhere. We can just snuggle here and watch it snow. I am up for some hot chocolate...Rudy makes the best...then it is some more Christmas movies. I think we have gotten 6 or 7 inches of snow just today. Like I said before, it is to cold for it to all melt. Also I think there are more storms coming.

We had Jack over again today. He loves Rudy!! All the little ones are drawn to Rudy, he just has a knack with them. Jack loves our fish and he likes the movie "Finding Nemo", so we watched our fish and Nemo. He snuggled right up to the Rudester and was so good watching the movie. We got some pics of him waving etc. I will have to have Rudy post them, so all can see how cute he is.

I think it is now my turn to snuggle with the Rudester. Until later!!

Great Day with my Rudy!!

2008-12-17T21:31:00.000-08:00

Rudy and I had so much fun today. We went shopping and got a few gifts for Christmas. We went to several stores, from the mall to a scrapbook warehouse sale. It was so busy and the traffic was insane. I offered to drive...big mistake!!! It was like Salt Lake traffic at it's worst. Maybe even worse than Salt Lake traffic. Where do all the cars come from. I will never know. But even with that, we laughed and had such a good time. It is always a good time when I am with my Rudy. I loved the scrapbook sale. We got so many bargains. Rudy is such a better scrappie, crafty shopper than I am. He always finds the cutest things at the best prices. I think he knows my taste better than I do. Some of the stuff was suppose to be my Christmas present, but as usual, Rudy can't wait to let me see the things he chose for me. So I guess part of my Christmas came early today. I try and tell him to wait, but he is so excited to give me stuff, it is hard to tell him NO! So this is probably futile, but, hey Rudy, no more early Christmas presents. Wait until Dec. 25th to give me a anything else. Do you think he will wait?? If you want to, vote yes or no, but smart money is on NO.

Tonight we were just hang'ng out here at home and the doorbell rang. There was Becky with her little Jack. She needed us to watch him for a bit, she had an urgent meeting and Jayson wasn't home yet. Anyway, Jack stayed with us for awhile. Not long enough!!!! He watched Rudy's train go round in circles. He looked at all the Christmas decorations and loved the Santas. Then we got to the business of playing. He wanted me to read to him, so we got "Finding Nemo" and looked at all the Nemos and Doris etc. He knew who they were. He is so dang cute. I love his cheeks, they are the chubby, good kissing kind! He snuggled right up to me and then gave me a kiss. I was in seventh heaven. Before we knew it his dad was here to pick him up. He got bundled up and waved good-bye and off they went as quick as that. We were so glad he came over and "played" with us. He had not been over in a while. We will take any of our littles friends whenever we can. We love them all!!!!

Thank you Rudy

2008-12-17T21:23:00.000-08:00

Rudy has taught me a great lesson today. When he wrote the post about forgiving, I was humbled. I need to forgive and forget those who trespass against us. I will follow Rudy's lead and try not to harbor feelings. See what a great man and husband he is. I love him so much. What a good example for me. I know it will feel good to let those feeling go. We can only do so much and then put it in the Lord's hands. Thank you honey...I feel so much better.

OK. So I Have Some Work to Do!

2008-12-17T04:25:00.000-08:00

After reading an article in LDS Living, I was reminded that we must forgive those who hurt us...
Please Read #2 especially-

"31 Ways to Make Christmas Meaningful

A shiney red ornament on a Christmas treeThe holidays are so full of things to do: presents to buy, goodies to bake, cards to write. We get wrapped up in accomplishing so many things that a lasting feeling of joy and happiness never takes hold enough to sink in. But you can make this holiday season one to remember for all of the right reasons. Here are 31 ways to make your holidays a little more special this year.

1. Declutter and donate. Help your kids go through their clothing and toys and donate them to a local charity. Also, go through your holiday decorations and donate any you no longer use or love.

2. Forgive someone. We only end up hurting ourselves when we hold onto grudges. Give yourself a gift this holiday season and forgive a person who has wronged you. Forgiveness doesn’t mean you condone their actions, but allows you to let go of the pain. We may think of forgiveness as a sign of weakness, but it shows strength of character.

3. Take a day off. We often get caught up in the hustle and bustle and forget to enjoy this time of year. So give yourself a day off from shopping, gift-wrapping, and baking. Take a walk and breathe deeply the crisp air. Or call a friend and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

4. Call someone you love. Our days are often filled with piano lessons, carpools, and field trips. Take time out to call a loved one that you haven’t talked to in a long time. Let them know how much you truly care about them.

5. Write a thank-you note. I’m not talking about a “Thanks for the pink sweater, Aunt Esther,” but a from-the-heart letter full of gratitude. Maybe you want to thank your mom for enduring your rebellious adolescence or finally write your third-grade teacher who sparked your love of science.

6. Find a way to serve others. This could be a year-round goal, but we often feel more charitable around this time of year. Do something that you enjoy to help others. Read aloud to an elementary school class. Knit scarves to donate to a homeless shelter. One friend of mine who is Jewish volunteers at a soup kitchen on Christmas Day so that the regular volunteers can celebrate the holiday at home with their families."

We will forgive My Daughter and clear our hearts of anger and hurt because that is what the Lord would have us do and we Love her and hope the best for her and their little Family, we hope and pray that their hurts will heal some day and accept we cannot change the past only mend feelings to build a future. -Rudy

Christmas Cards

2008-12-16T10:23:00.000-08:00

Can you believe anyone would be offended by getting a Christmas card?It is true! Crystal Powers, someone we use to know, wrote us a nasty email telling us she wanted nothing to do with us anymore, after receiving our Christmas card. It was a simple card wishing her a Merry Christmas.We couldn't believe someone would be such a "Grinch" or "Scrooge" at Christmas time. We have been estranged (not by our choice, but hers) for a while now. She didn't like our blog because she was not mentioned in the first post. She blames Rudy for every wrong thing that happened in her life. You see, her mother left Crystal's father and took the children off to Montana and wouldn't let their father see them. The mother told the children all sorts of stories (lies) to her daughters about how terrible their father was. When he sent money or presents, the mother told them it was from her. The girls learned to hate their dad. Even when he tried to get in touch with them, the mother wouldn't have it. Crystal has been carrying a big block on her shoulder for many years after hearing all of this hatred. A few years ago she decided to get married and ask Rudy to walk her down the aisle. So we went to Montana, very happy I might add, to be part of her life. It has been such a roller coaster ride since then. It seems if we don't do what Crystal expects us to she gets mad and wants nothing to do with us. We kept trying to get to know her better and Rudy even apologized for all the wrongs he had done. He told her his side of the story (because there are two sides to every story) but she didn't like his version. Well, we just kept trying until finally it began to be to hard to hear all of the negative crap she would spew about her dad. Yes, Rudy sadly is her father. I, being not as patient as Rudy, wrote off a email and told her to grow up and put all the bad stuff behind her and give her father a chance to be in her life. Because I think she would see what a wonderful man her father is, if she would just let him in, I told her to stop being such a brat! Now after getting our Christmas card she wrote back and said she wants nothing to do with us ever again. So, sadly we are going to comply with her wishes. After so many years of trying to be a father and friend to her, we cannot take it anymore. It hurts to bad. We have taken her off our Christmas card list, our email list and every other list we have. It saddens our hearts but what can you do. She has two wonderful little boys (Rudy's grandchildren) that she will be depriving them of the best grandfather that could be. And she is depriving herself of a father who loves her so much and wants nothing but the best for her. I just wanted to be her friend, never would I take over being her mother. I too, love her with all my heart and wish her well. I love those little boys and know how much Rudy loves them. It hurts our hearts that we cannot see them grow and mature and give them all of our love. I hurt for Rudy most of all, because he has tried so hard. I know he thinks about her every day and we pray for both of his daughters. Someday I hope she realizes what she is missing and decides differently. But, for now she is someone we tried to get to know, once upon a time.

Thankfully, we have many friends around us. We love you like we would our own. There are so many of you who love us for who we are and accept our faults. I hope you all know what that means to us. We have so much love to give. It is so nice that you all (and you know who you are...everyone) loves us back unconditionally. Thank you for sharing your children with us. We are proud to be called Grandpa or grandma or just plain Carol and Rudy. They mean more to us than you will know. Thanks again to all of our dear "family".

It is Snowing

2008-12-16T10:15:00.000-08:00

I looked out my window and low and behold, there is snow. Finally, we will have snow for Christmas. I hope it doesn't melt by then. It has been to cold to melt!!!

We had a wonderful FHE at Ray and Paula's last night. I love being around family. Knowing how much we love each other is such a blessing. The little kids (their grandkids) opened up the "cousins" presents last night. It was so cute to see their excited little faces. We forgot the camera!!! We are not use to having a camera, so we completely forgot to take it. We need to write notes to ourselves...or have a secretary!!! We had pizza and tacos and I read my Innkeeper story. Ray and Paula gave us a beautiful book of Christmas stories. It was a great evening! I wish Rudy had family closer. Bill and Randy are not to far, but far enough to not see them often.

Colder than cold

2008-12-15T09:24:00.000-08:00

How does the saying go...It's colder than a step-mother's kiss? I think that is it.
Anyway it was very cold this weekend and continues to be cold today. Saturday was a lazy day for us. We sat around and did nothing. One thing Rudy did however, was make us hot chocolate. It warmed me clear down to my toes. What a great guy!!! Sunday was a kinda snowy day. Not to much snow, just enough to make it slippery. Church was very uplifting and I enjoyed it all. I love to sit in a class and hear every ones comments. I can see different perspectives, which helps me learn.
I sat by the Smith girls in RS. They are such good people. I love to sit back and listen to them sing with Angelic voices. I want to adopt them (or at least rent them once in awhile). Cute Ardis brought me back a beautiful silk scarf from her trip to China. That was so thoughtful. How nice was that???? So nice!!! Sarah is home from Idaho for Christmas break. I was so glad to see her. I just love those two!
My wonderful visiting teachers, Lindsay and Melissa came by yesterday. Melissa gave a very inspiring message. I am grateful for caring visiting teachers. This is the second month for these sisters to come. I am getting to know them better each visit. Change is good and I am happy for the chance to get to know others in our ward.

Shake the Benoits!

2008-12-13T02:27:00.001-08:00

Click the Globe to Shake things up!

Snow Globe Toy & MySpace Layouts at pYzam.com

One of my Favorite Things!

2008-12-12T11:01:00.000-08:00

Last night was book club. It is one of my favorite things to do. I love, love, love those girls and enjoy being around them. I love, love, love to read, so when you combine the two things, there is so much love go'n on. To be serious for a moment...I seriously enjoy book club. I enjoy the discussions about the books. I always learn something new and can see the book through others eyes. I have read many books I probably would not have chosen to read (and liked). Through book club I have read books I had never heard about (and liked). It has expanded my horisons. Thanks to all you book clubbers!!!

Hooray for Home and Visiting Teachers!

2008-12-11T07:17:00.000-08:00

My poor Rudy is still suffering from his cold/cough/feeling awful! Our Home Teachers, Bro. Hussy and Bro Anderson called and said they were bringing dinner over last night. Right at 5:30, here they were at our door with a wonderful dinner. How nice of them. I think it made Rudy feel somewhat better. I cannot leave out my wonderful Visiting Teacher, Sis. Budge. She brought dinner last week when I was feeling under the weather. Both of these acts of service are what VT and HT is all about. What good examples to emulate.

Since we have been down with colds etc., we have spent alot of time watching TV. We have been watching the Hallmark channel. At this time of the year they have so many of those "two-tissue or more" movies. We cuddle under blankets on the sofa, with the Christmas lights on and watch these shows. It has really brought the spirit of Christmas to both of us. This is the only good reason I have found to suffer through a cold... Christmas movies (down-side...we have gone through tons of tissues, both blowing our noses and wiping tears! TMI). If you channel-surf you can find all sorts of Christmas specials. Lifetime channel has had some good ones too.

New Background

2008-12-10T09:16:00.000-08:00

I loved the background with the Three Magi, but felt it was a little hard to read. I guess I complained a little to much, so Rudy changed it. As you can now see we have snowmen and snowflakes. I collect snowmen, so this is apropos. (look close to the background behind the posts for the snowmen...I had to too). I really think I should learn how to change the backgrounds, but I want Rudy to feel needed, since he rarely writes posts. Next I need to learn how to do the pics. Oh ya, I forgot to announce we now have a NEW CAMERA!!! Christmas came early to the Benoits. It is a beautiful new Cannon and is very easy to use. It has to be for electronically-challenged me. In fact I took the pictures that are posted of the Christmas party. Good job, huh...no it is just a good camera.

Ward Christmas Party

2008-12-10T05:38:00.000-08:00

Isn't he the cutest Santa ever!!

Hey Cute Alli Girl

Smile Noah...I love his golden curls!

Santa, I want....

Bryce wants his two-front teeth for Christmas

Emails up the wazoo!!

2008-12-09T15:40:00.000-08:00

I probably shouldn't say wazoo (if that is even how you spell it) cuz it sounds kinda crude. Oh well, this is me! Love me, like me or leave me!
Back to the emails. I opened up my inbox yesterday and had 87 unread, new emails. I did what everyone else would do... or not...I promptly closed her up. I was in no mood to go through all of them. That's what you get when you let your computer collect dust and not use it for a few days...weeks!!! So today when I went in and I had exactly 100. Bugga!!! I started going through and read those I wanted to and deleted a bunch of craft and catalog ones, got bored and decided to blog. So here I am. Oh, I had forgotten facebook too, so I wrote on lots of walls. That is pretty fun. I like seeing what everyone is doing. Can you say stalker??? Not really...I do not stalk...I snoop...just kidding. I am nosey. That's it...I confess, I'm a busy-body. It is really entertaining to me to see what people are doing, or complaining about, or having fun and I'm not!!! You know how it is...come on confession time. I guess I also should confess, I blog-stalk. Is that what it is called? I like to look at friends and neighbors cute kiddies and fun times. They are so cute. I enjoy seeing what high-jinx the children are getting into. Having no little ones of my own, I live vicariously through others. Can you say "Grandma Carol" Alli girl??? So thanks goes to all you mothers (and fathers...how many fathers blog???) for letting me visit
(I know, I know...stalk) your blogs.

My cute Alli came over today for a play-date. She is so funny and adorable. She would say "thank-you" when I gave her something or did something for her. Can you believe at 2 years old she knows manners. Some adults haven't learned them yet. When her Mommy came to pick her up, we gave her and Blake some before Christmas presents. (it was suppose to be for Christmas, but as usual we couldn't wait) Blake got a cute movie and a M&M's watch. Alli got "princess lights" (and watch). They have Disney Princesses and are like Christmas lights. I think you can hang them all year round. They are so dang cute and she was so excitement she remembered to say thank-you and give both Rudy and I a kiss and hug! So did Blake. How can you not love little ones like them. We forgot Tyler!!! I just thought of that. Oh no!!! Memo to Rudy...Tyler!!!!

Blogging is so much more fun than going through some of my emails. Don't get me wrong, I love to email from real live people, but I hate all the ads and junk. I need to stop some of the on-line catalogs etc., or check it everyday like I used to. Ok, Ok, I will stop complaining and just do it! Like President Kimball said..."Just Do It". But right now I need something to eat!!! (just kidding)

Is it Larry the Cable Guy that says "Get 'er Done"??? Or Scarlett O'Hara that said "I'll think about it tomorrow"?? And then there is Rhett Butler.."Frankly Scarlett, I don't give a d_ _ _"?Besides being a busy-body, I am a procrastinator. I'm going, I'm going!!

December Already

2008-12-08T16:57:00.000-08:00

Rudy changed our blog background for Christmas. I hope you had a chance to shake the snow-globe. He does such a good job with the "artsy-fartsy" stuff!! So I thought I better get on the ball and do some blogging. It has been a mucho long time since I blogged. I get the hint and the nudge, honey! Thanks for keeping us current with the backgrounds etc. Your a good man!

Where do I begin? November was here and is now gone. It is now December 8th already! Wow how time flies when you are busy, sick and having fun! Which is what I have recently been doing (all three)! So much has happened in the last week or two. I just do not know where to start, so I will just start somewhere!!!
I didn't finish my month of Thanksgiving, bad girl...no tacos! I think I had five days left so I will write a short list of five things I am thankful for and call it good...
1. I am thankful for visiting friends from far away places---Jennie Gordon came to visit the day before Thanksgiving. She brought the children. My how they have grown. She was here from San Diego for the holiday and stopped to see us. It was so nice to see her and visit with her for a short time. Don't you love those kind of friends you can just start up with where you left off?Jennie is one of those friends. I just love her and love our visits. I miss her so much and was so thankful she stopped by!
2. I am thankful for the Holidays. To me, holiday means family and friends. That's just what Thanksgiving was this year. We had dinner at Ray and Paula's. It was a small gathering---Mother, Ann, Aunt Lorraine, Melissa (no boys, they were with their dad...missed them much!), Ray, Paula and of course Rudy and I! The other Coddingtons were at their in-laws, but dropped by later. We had a very good dinner and such a nice visit. Just before we left Jane and her Amy stopped by to plan out the usual "black-Friday" shopping spree. So it was a very family day!
3. I am thankful for "live" theater! We were treated to a night at Hale Theater in Orem, for the production of "A Christmas Carol". Nyle Smith was the "Ghost of Christmas Present" and other parts, like narrator etc. It was an enjoyable night. Before the play, we went to The Brick-Oven in Provo for dinner. We met Nyle and CJ there. Sarah brought a friend and we had a mighty good pizza dinner. It was a excellent way to start the Christmas season.
4. I am so thankful for cold medicine. Saturday the 29th I came down with a cold. (Rudy, poor guy, started feeling yucky at the play). So I promptly started with the "Day and Night Quils". It took over a week to finally feel better. I still have a bit of a cough. Poor Rudy is still not all the way over his cold. I guess I am just tougher than he is. (actually, Rudy took better care of me, than I did him).
5. I started my list with Rudy and middled my list with Rudy and I will end my list with Rudy. I have said it so many times before, but I am so grateful I have my Rudy. He is the love of my life, my eternal companion and my best friend. I love him so much!! He makes me laugh, feel like a queen, think, push my self to be better and lets me know how much he loves me!!! I am eternally thankful that we found each other and know without a doubt we will be together forever. I thank my Heavenly Father each day for his plan of salvation, and know I need to live so that I will be worthy to return to live with him again, and I will do it with my Rudy. I love you so much, Honey!!!

We have had a couple of Christmas parties so far this year. First of all we had a Relief Society Enrichment Christmas Talent night. It was such a wonderful night. Some of the sisters in the ward shared their musical talents with us. The music was so beautiful and soothing to the soul. I love Christmas music and love to see and share in the talents of others. I flimpantly (is that a word?) said I didn't have a musical talent to share and someone said I could read a story. Knowing I had a pretty good collection of stories I have saved through the years, I signed my name!! What had I done??? I looked through my stories, but so many had been shared before. I decided to write a story of my own...what am I thinking??!!!?? I had always thought the innkeeper in the story of the Nativity got a bum rap. I think most people try to do the best they can, so I decided to write how I thought the story played out (in Carol's world). Because who knows... the scriptures only say there was no room in the inn. Well, I think the story came out ok. Since reading it, I have tweeked it some and it is a little better. Rudy want me to try and see if it could be published. Published????now I am dreaming!!!! But he is pretty good at talking me into things---we'll see what happens. Up-dates later.

Saturday night we had our ward Christmas party. The activities committee did such a good job. It was decorated so nice...everything was done so nice. There was even a good program. I enjoyed myself. Rudy was "visiting with friends" so I had to sit alone and wait for him to finish. I didn't really sit alone though, Mabeys and Applegates sat at our table. Also Ellie Ables sat by and talked with me for awhile. Some of our other smaller friends came by and talked with me. The Munfords...Issac and Ethan, Jack McGinnis, Noah Harper and of course my Allie Palmer stopped and chatted!! I love all those little ones. How precious are children. They are so sweet and fun to be around. Both Rudy and I love when we get to talk or play with the little ones. Rudy even let me man the new camera. I took some good pics if I do say so myself!!

Behind Again!

2008-11-25T07:04:00.000-08:00

What is that saying...I am so behind I am ahead of myself??? Well certainly I am behind in my thankful days. Think of it, me busy!!! How about that? I will try and catch up now...

Sunday, November 23...
Today was the 4th Sunday of the month, so it is Conference talk Sunday! Amber Mann teaches Relief Society on these Sundays. I love it when she teaches. She gives such good lessons (all the RS teachers are excellent). Today's lesson was "Lift Where You Stand" by President Uchtdorf. What a wonderful talk. He is such a spiritual man. I enjoy his talks so much. So today I am very grateful for General Conference. I am inspired and spiritually fed every April and October. To hear the Prophet and Apostles speak gives me comfort in troubles times. Every talk seems to be what I need to hear and what I need to work on the most. I get guidance and direction, which in turn strengthens my testimony. I wait anxiously for the November issue of the Ensign which is the Conference one. I am able to read, ponder and study each talk in more depth. How thankful I am to have a living Prophet, President Monson on the earth today, to lead us and guide us. I am so thankful for the Twelve and the other general authorities and auxiliary leaders. I am such a better person when I listen and learn from them.

Monday, November 24...
I live in a wonderful time in the history of the world. Like I said before, I have all these modern conveniences to make my life easier. Today I am really thankful we have a car (2 automobiles to be exact). I was thinking about the pioneers trekking across the plains in the blistering heat and the freezing cold. I don't think I could have done it. What sacrifices they made for me!!! (I must say here that I am also thankful for the pioneers) But, all I need to do is go out into my nice, cozy garage and get in my comfortable car, start 'er up and I can be anywhere I need to be in a matter of minutes, not days. I have heat when it is cold and air-conditioning when it is hot. I have music to enjoy on my journey. How thankful I am for modern transportation. Here's a "honk-out" to my cars!!! Thanks!!

Today, Tuesday, November 25th...
I am so thankful today for wonderful neighbors! Last night we had a knock at our door. I opened to find sweet neighbors with a fun goodie for us. How thoughtful was that? Tons!!!!! Thanks Lisa and Max for the goodie and the fun visit. It was wonderful to get to know them better! We have such wonderful people that live around us. I might have said this before, but I am really, really thankful for sweet people like Lisa and Max who take time out of their busy life to think of me and Rudy. What a good example for me to follow. So a big shout-out and thanks goes to dear neighbors.
One funny side-line to go with this post. Max was checking out Leon (our fishy) and he said he could put his nose in the water. I said that he didn't want to do that because he would get "cucka" on ya, meaning fish goobers. He gave me a puzzled look and said, "What is "cuckaonya" (he thought it was all one word). What a crack-up! He is such a cute little guy. So beware of any kind of "cuckaonya"!!!!

Temples!

2008-11-22T12:30:00.000-08:00

Everyday when I turn on my computer, my screensaver is the Mt. Timpanogos Temple. I am so thankful for our temples! What a peaceful, restful, and most sacred place! When you are in the temple your worldly cares are gone and you can concentrate on the sacred work you are doing. I remember the first time I went to the temple. I was nervous, of course. But, I will never forget the feeling of peace that come over me. I had never felt the spirit so strong as I did that day. Every time I go back, I can still feel the sacred spirit and the peace I felt the first time. How blessed am I that I have a temple right here in my own back yard. In Utah we have so many temples all around us, that we can be to one in just a matter of minutes. Some Saints save a life-time to be able to go once to the temple. I am so humbled by their sacrifice. Thanks to my Heavenly Father for his love for me. I am thankful for the opportunity to go to his sacred house. As the primary song says..."I love to see the temple...to feel his holy spirit to listen and to pray. So today I am so thankful for Holy Temples.

2 days late and many dollars short!

2008-11-21T07:17:00.000-08:00

I have been really busy (for me) these last few days, and have gotten a little behind in my blogging. You know the old saying...Time flies when you are having fun! I think time flies when you are getting older, when you are very busy (and/or) having fun! Anyway here are my last few "thankful fors".

Wednesday, November 19...Rudy had procedure done on his back this day. He had injections into areas around his spine...I think it is steroid injections. We were at the Timpanogos Hospital a good part of the day. Everything went really well. He had 4 injections, so it took about 40 minutes to do (and several hours of waiting before and after)! But, after all is said and done, the most important part is praying that they will give him some pain relief. So today I am thankful for modern day medicine and medical procedures. We have come a long way Baby! I am grateful there are people who are willing to spend so much of their time to become MD's, nurses, technologists and other health care workers! Thanks to all the dedicated men and women!

Thursday, November 20...We have been going through lots of trials lately...(doesn't everyone!!). I guess it has been a little over-whelming to me. So I have had the uglies the last few days. Worry is a wasted emotion, and it gets the best of me! Yesterday I woke up on the wrong side of the bed and was pretty disagreeable to everyone around me. I hate when I am in those moods!! Grow-up Girlie... how old am I???!!! Anyway, I am so grateful for forgiveness and the people who forgive me. Having to ask for forgiveness and telling someone I love, I am sorry is hard for me. And I have had to do that a lot lately. So I am very thankful I am able to repent and ask for forgiveness. To all those I have annoyed I am truly sorry. Thanks for forgiving me!

Today Friday, November 21...Blogging has been a good thing for me. I have looked back and read over older posts. Wow! Some of the postings I had forgotten about. It is so nice to have this on-line journal to refresh my mind and re-live wonderful times. So today I am thankful for blogging. Not only my blog, but dear friends blogs. I think they call it blog stalking (or is it snooping?) but I enjoy seeing fun family pictures and reading about others lives. You find out some fun facts you never knew about friends. It helps me see that all of us have tough times now and again. I learn from others struggles with everyday things and everyday life. I can also feel of their happiness and enjoy the great times. It seems to bring us closer as friends. So today, thanks to all my blogger buddies. I am thankful you let me peek into your lives. I am also thankful I have my blog. I have learned a lot about myself. Here's a shout-out to blogging! Hip Hip Hooray!!!

Happy Birthday, Rudy

2008-11-18T08:18:00.000-08:00

Today is Rudy's birthday! I started the thankful list with Rudy and I am going to put a "thanks for Rudy" in the middle. I am so grateful to have a Rudy (the one and only) in my life. Like I have said before, he is the bestest in the Westest!(and Northest, Southest and even Eastest) I love him so much! He is so good to me and he is kind, considerate and loving. He honors his Priesthood and me! What more could a Carol want? Nothing!!! So, Rudy thankyou for you and Happy Birthday, Honey!!!

Last night we went to dinner with the "AF girls" (which includes Dennis and Rudy). We went to the Olive Garden. We celebrated our Wedding Anniversary and Rudy's birthday. Rudy was in seventh Heaven. He loves his pasta! Our waiter came up to ask us what we wanted to drink and all of a sudden he said he was in our Ward. He knew we lived in Pemberley etc. I guess he saw us at church (we are pretty unforgetable characters...one with O2 and one with a cane). His name was Branden Madsen. He said they live in Rockwell, but they went away for the summer to work. He showed us a picture of his wife, and I remember seeing her in RS. She has beautiful long red hair. They have a little baby girl. I think he said his wife's name was Becca. I told him to come talk to us on Sunday. I will have to watch for him. By the way, he was a very good waiter!!!
So thankyou Brandon!!! (and AF girls)

This morning we got a phone call, and who should be on the line but our cute Alli girl and Blake! They each sang "Happy Birthday" to Rudy. We both got kinda teary eyed. He put it on speaker-phone so I could hear them sing. (we could even hear their dog Lucy in the background, singing along with them) What a beautiful way for Rudy to start out his birthday! Thanks goes to the Palmers, you made our day!

Sixteen going on Seventeen!

2008-11-17T07:53:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for music. Music can change your attitude. It can set the tone. It evokes so many different emotions. I love music...from church hymns to classical, I love most kinds. Nothing can help you feel the spirit in church better than music. Reading the lyrics and listening to the beauty of the music can be a wonderful way to add to the worship service. There is nothing better to humble you than hearing primary children sing! Rudy and I love to watch the Mo Tab Choir every Sunday morning to set the tone for the day! When you are feeling the blahs, uplifting music can change your mood. Nobody can tell a story like a good ole country tune! There is nothing like a Disney song to make you feel like a child again. Golden oldies can bring back memories of long ago! Listening to love songs is a great way to "Huggle-McSnuggle"! But this time of the year has to be one of my favorite for music. Christmas music!!! It started on the first day of November. I love it!!! And thankfully Rudy does too. There are so many wonderful Christmas songs. There are reverent ones like "Oh Holy Night", "Silent Night", "With Wondering Awe". and "Away in a Manger", to name a few of my favorites. Then you have the fun ones like, "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" (you knew I had to name that one with a Rudy in the house!), "We Need a Little Christmas", "Deck the Halls" and "Silver Bells". Space is to limited to name all of my favorites, but you get the picture! We have even started to go to bed each night, with Christmas tunes taking us off into sleepy land and help us wake-up each morning! So I guess it is time to put on a Christmas CD and be thankful for all the wonderful music there is to enjoy!
p.s. did you get the sixteen going on seventeen clue? Yes, it is from The Sound of Music! Clever huh!!! I love movie songs also...they almost make you feel like a "Star" when you sing them! So "Don't Rain on My Parade", because "People" need people to help them "Climb Every Mountain"! Ok, ok enough already!!!

Movies

2008-11-16T16:50:00.000-08:00

Today is Nov. 16 and it is the 16th day of thanks. Today I am thankful for movies. Thankful for movies you ask. Yes, thankful for movies. They have to be good movies, I must add. No thanks for those dumb ones!!! Why movies....well the answer is, I like to be entertained, taken away on some adventure, learn new things, laugh, cry, use my brain to figure out the plot etc. I must confess we have not been to the movie theater for quite a while. We have watched movies on the Hallmark channel, or rented from red box. We even have pulled out our own DVDs (ones we haven't watched before). And may I say, we have a plethora of them! We have been really bored with plain old TV lately, so we have been movie watching. Why just yesterday we watched "Madagascar" (I have been singing..."I like to move it, move it...for 2 whole days). We both could not remember seeing it and we wanted to see the first one before going to the next one..."Madagascar 2". We are for sure going to see it!!! If anyone wants to go with...give us a call. Rudy and I both laughed out loud at that movie. It was pretty good and pretty funny (unless we were just in a silly mood). It fulfilled many of my qualifications...entertaining, adventurous, and made us laugh! So there you go! Today after church, we watched a movie we had recorded from the Hallmark channel..."Generation Gap". The title says it all. A teenage bad boy goes to live with his grandfather and becomes a good boy! Anyway, we both liked it. You cannot go to wrong with the Hallmark channel. It was entertaining etc and also made us cry. Here we both were, sitting on the sofa, blubbering, tears rolling down our cheeks, sniffling, old cronies watching a TV movie. That is one way to have a good time!!! The only way to make it better, would have been to have a big bowl of popcorn...but I will leave popcorn for another Thankful day!!!! So here's a cheer for good movies. I am thankful for them!!! Rah, Rah, Rah!!!

Mushy Post Alert !!

2008-11-15T07:25:00.000-08:00

This post contains mushy, lovey content, so reader beware!!!
This morning I was sitting in my office, in the recliner, reading Mr. Einstein (yes, I am still reading Albert Einstein...it is a long, long book). I had blocked everything out because when you read about the theory of relativity, you have to concentrate. Who should come up behind me, but my Rudy. He cupped his hands around my cheeks and gave me an upside-down kiss! He told me it was my first kiss of November 15...which was not true, cuz we kissed when we woke up...but anyhow, he wished me a happy 15th! If you are gagging at this point, I warned you!!! So today I am thankful for HUGS and KISSES! There is nothing better than a Rudy massage or a Rudy kiss! When I am hurting, he will massage me and make it all better. I told him he has "healing hands". I sometimes get bad headaches and he can gently rub my forehead and it takes some of the pain away. He can also "kiss and make anything better". Even when I am not hurting, it is great to have someone to hug and kiss on...just because you love them. HUGS and KISSES rock!!!

Four + Ten = 14

2008-11-14T15:51:00.000-08:00

I had to get up before breakfast this morning! (so did the Rudster) We had to be in Salt Lake at nine o'clock. Not knowing what traffic would be like, we left at 7:45 am. Needless to say we were early! Traffic was wonderful and I have that lead foot thing going on. Of course I drove so we would get there today and not tomorrow ("grandpa Rudy"). Rudy had a hearing at the Bennett Federal Building about his Social Security disability. After four long years and lawyers and appeals, the judge finally made the decision. Instead of waiting for him to decide, he made his decision part of the record today. Rudy is disabled...like we didn't already know...but it is legally decided now. Along with the judge, he had a physician and a guy that says if you can work at any job there (I cannot remember what they are called) to give feedback about what they thought about Rudy's case. All three came to the same conclusion...Rudy is disabled. Now I am not excited that he is disabled, but I am glad he will get disability payments (which he deserves). That will certainly help us out. Living from paycheck to paycheck has been hard. Maybe now we will be able to put a little money in savings, so when we have broken cars or whatever, we can pay it right off! So today I am thankful for the Justice system. Thanks to all the doctors and lawyers that have worked with us on this journey! And, thanks so much Judge K.

What a day!

2008-11-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

Alli Palmer came to over today so we could play. Today she called me Grandma again. I cannot think of a better thing to be called. We have so much fun when Alli comes. We play with the toys, we read books, we watch cartoons and have a treat! Today's treat was a banana. Bananas are Alli's favorite thing...along with many other things!!!(I hope I am one of her favorite things) What a wonderful way to spend 3 hours. Time really does fly when you are having fun with Alli. Can you tell I love that little girl??!!!

After such a good morning, Mother called to tell us Jane was taking Kay back to the hospital. He had stomach surgery last week and now he is in kidney failure! Last time I talked to her, they were still in the ER waiting to see if he was going to be admitted. If he truly is in kidney failure they better admit him. As of this posting we are still waiting to hear what is going on. Jane is suppose to call when she knows more. So up dates will come. Kay you are in our prayers!

Lucky number 13!

2008-11-13T16:40:00.000-08:00

Today is Nov. 13. Most people say the number 13 is an unlucky number. I try and look at it as being an unique number, not unlucky at all. If you look at it, it is kind of a pretty number. You have the sleekness of the 1 and the curves of the 3. You have everything in one number. So today I am thankful that everyone is unique, just like the number 13. How dull would it be if we were all the same. Yuck!! Boring, boring boring. Even though we are all different, we all are the same. We are all children of our Heavenly Father. He created each of us to be unique. He has given each of us talents to share. This helps us to grow...both in sharing and receiving the benefits of each others abilities. By sharing our talents, we enlarge them and they become better!! What a wonderful way things work out!! So rather than judging someone as strange or different, I am going to think of them as unique, with talents and abilities to share. I am thankful that Heavenly Father made me "unique"!

On the Twelveth Day of Thanks...

2008-11-12T14:40:00.000-08:00

Today has been a gloomy, gray, rainy day. Just the kind of day I like to snuggle under a blanket and read a good book. So that is just what I have done today. We went to the pool this morning and had a good work-out/time. It had rained, but was not raining when we got there. After our hour of pool "therapy", we get out to the car and it was sputtering or misting rain. Not real lots, but just enough to turn on the wipers now and again. As we got closer to home it was a little bit heavier. So what a good day to read. Today I am thankful for books and the ability to read. Thanks goes to all my teachers who taught me how to read. Reading is one of my favorite things. I just love it. I can tune just about everything out when I am engrossed in a book. I have read so many wonderful works of literary art in my life, and some not so wonderful. I guess you have to take the good with the bad. Right now I am reading a bio of Albert Einstein. I have to concentrate when they are talking all that physics stuff. Fortunately I took a lot of physics in school. I enjoyed it, I guess because we used lots of it in Ultrasound. (By the way...what an interesting man.) Also I just finished a book called..."A Girl Named Zippy"... for book club. It reminded me of myself growing up. These are two totally different types of books. I am glad I like so many different genre of books. I learn so much by reading. It takes me away to different places and times. Reading enlightens me and makes me think!!! I am also thankful for our neighborhood book club. I have read many books I probably would have never chosen on my own. After reading I enjoy our discussions, which enables me to understand the book and maybe see it in a different light. So I will be thankful for those rainy days...beside needing the water, I have an excuse to snuggle up and read...(like I ever need an excuse)

A Word from Rudy

2008-11-11T15:57:00.000-08:00

This is Rudy, I don't post much, but I just have to say that yesterday being our 13th Anniversary was great, we didn't celebrate by buying anything or eating anything fancy, we did have a wonderful dinner with family and that is the greatest, after all I married into an absolutely wonderful family. I love them all, I love Carol most of all and am so grateful for her love and example. I hope some day to be worthy of her.

"Adult Dinner"

2008-11-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Last night Paula and Ray hosted a dinner for my siblings and Mother. Aunt Lorraine was also invited. It was night to reminisce and visit. What a great idea Aunt Paula!!! She fixed dinner for all. We had yummy chicken noodle soup or beef stew in bread bowls. It hit the spot on a cold and rainy night. For dessert she had made an ice cream cake-roll or cherry pie. Well of course we all had to have a smidgen of both. It was delicious!!! After dinner we were each assigned to bring a memory of someone in the family. We laughed until we cried at some of the funny things we had done together through the years. It was so fun to hear fond memories of things I had forgotten. There were also very touching moments, which of course I had tears!!! It was so good to be together with each other. Rudy learned some things about me and I learned some things about Ann, Jane and Ray. It was touching to hear about Mom and Dad's courtship and some of the things we had not heard before. Mother also told us about their early marriage. It was great to catch up on each other's daily lives, and just visit. I love to be with my family. Thanks Paula and Ray for a perfect evening. Even though we get together a lot with the whole family, I think we should get the siblings together more like this. Fun was had by all!!!

Veterans day/ Day 11

2008-11-11T07:25:00.000-08:00

Today is Veterans Day. It is celebrated on November 11, no matter what day of the week it falls on. I celebrate and honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. How grateful I am to live in a free country. I think of the many who gave the ultimate sacrifice and thank and reverence their memory. I am thankful for those who now serve and pray for their safety. It sends chills through me when I see the flag waving in the breeze. Thanks goes to all those who have or now serve this free land of liberty. I appreciate and honor you not only on this Veterans Day but every day of the year!

Tenth day and Thirteenth year

2008-11-10T09:15:00.000-08:00

Today is November 10, 2008. Which means today is our 13th wedding anniversary! Lucky number thirteen. It was a cold and rainy/snowy day in 1995. A lot like today is. But it was one of my best days ever. In some ways it feels like only yesterday, but yet, I can't remember what it was ever like without my sweetheart Rudy. I am so thankful for being able to be married!!! It is the best thing ever to know I will have my eternal companion with me always. I waited a long time for Rudy. At times I thought I would never find him. Finally I decided to leave it in the Lord's hands and look what I got. An answer to my prayers. The best of the best, the cream of the crop, a number 1 and all those other cliches!!! We tease sometimes that we are misfits and it is great we found each other. But we are such a good fit and love each other so much, no one else would do! We are so meant to be together!!! So, Honey...I love you and I am glad you are mine for the eternities. Thanks for marrying me, because marriage is truly a wonderful gift and one that I am so thankful for!!!

My cute Alli

2008-11-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

On the way home from church we saw Amy, Blake, Alli and Tyler walking home from church. So after lots of begging (NOT) Rudy stopped to talk. Alli was so excited to see us. She got a great big smile and said her usual "Hi Caro and Wooody." She got in the truck and gave me a big hug. I ask her if she wanted to go home with me(not thinking she ever would). Immediately she said Yes and told her Mom good-bye and wanted her to shut the door. But shutting the door was not enough, she wanted the window up. I think she though Amy might get her through the window. She said "bye-bye Momma", several times and then we were off. We rode around doing a limited "Pemberley Patrol". Rudy then asked her if she wanted to go back to her Mommy. She said yes, but when we got back, she really did not want to stay. We talked her into eating her lunch and also told her she was coming over to play on Tues. So she waved good-bye, and off to home we went. I totally didn't think she would go, but it did this old heart good when she did. It really made my day!!! I love you, little Alli!!!
Oh and by the way...Jolene Mumford's little guy Isaac said "Hi" to us and called us by our names. I so love these little children in our neighborhood. They brighten-up our lives so much. How cute are they all!!!!

Nine and Counting

2008-11-09T17:07:00.000-08:00

Today is Sunday, and as usual we started the day by listening to the Mo Tab Choir. I love the choir broadcasts each Sunday morning. They help to start the day with the Spirit. After, off we went to church . In Sacrament Meeting we had 2 really good speakers. They each spoke about conversion. I enjoyed hearing both talks. Each helped me to reflect on my life and my conversion. It is good to remember when you felt those spiritual feelings of being really converted. Thanks to Bro. Komen and Sister Rasmussen for their excellent talks.
Then to Sunday School class. We had a new teacher today. Bro. Adams was the teacher and he is really a good one. Our discussion was about the Gift of the Holy Ghost. It was a great discussion. I enjoy when there is lots of comments. I learn so much.
After Sunday School, it is Relief Society. The lessons for the whole year have been about the Prophet Joseph Smith. Today was about the love he showed to his family, even while he was away so much or imprisoned. Most of the lesson had letters he wrote to Emma. He gave her so much encouragement in troubles times. He spoke of his love for her and the children. One quote I don't want to ever forget is..."My heart is entwined around yours forever and ever." That quote to me says it all. It is like...no matter what may come, the hardships we endure and the trials we may go through, I will love you forever and ever and we will be together through the eternities. I feel that way about Rudy. But, back to the Prophet Joseph...no matter what he went through, he loved his family and still testified of the truthfulness of the gospel. He wanted them to know that our Father will be there for us, come what may. It was a beautiful lesson.
So today I am thankful for Joseph Smith. I testify of him. He is a true prophet of God and did restore the Lord's church in these latter days. He indeed translated the Book of Mormon, and restored the Priesthood. I know he knelt in the Sacred Grove and prayed to a living Heavenly Father. In that same grove he saw both the Father and the Son, and heard both speak. I will ever be grateful to him for all he did to usher in this last dispensation. Joseph is one of my gospel Heros. Thankyou Brother Joseph!!

Already Day 8

2008-11-08T06:45:00.000-08:00

So I went to put in a batch of washing into the washer and I thought how much I love this washer/dryer set. It is the front-loading type and we purchased them when we moved here. How much easier it is for me to load and unload the wash! I realized how thankful I am for the modern conveniences that are available to us. No doing our wash on rocks, or putting it through the wringers. And, oh the days of hanging clothes out on a clothes-line to dry (I remember doing that, what a pain in the cold months). We have a dishwasher, a microwave oven, a refrigerator with water and crushed ice coming out the door. Yes, I remember the "old days" of the metal ice trays! We have a TV in the living room. One in the bedroom and in both of our offices. We don't even have to move to change the channels, because we have remotes. I even remember when we got out first color TV (when I was but a very,very young, little girl)! I think sometimes I take all this for granted. I don't take time to appreciate what we have around us to make our lives easier. Sometimes I wonder if we have it to easy, then I put that thought right out of my mind fast!!! I am so thankful I live now and have what I have. Thanks, thanks, many times thanks for those modern conveniences. Did I mention how grateful I am for "cordless/cell" phones?

It is day Seven

2008-11-07T15:47:00.000-08:00

Rudy and I went to the pool this morning and had a great time as usual. Even though it was a bit chilly, I still had a good work-out. I am so thankful I am able to go to the pool. Swimming has helped me overcome self-consciousnesses and not to worry so much about what others think of me. It has helped me to know I can do almost anything. I am grateful for my health and the "lack" there-of. I am able to breath (with some 02 help). I am able to see and hear. I can walk around...slowly but surely. I can talk (Rudy would say"boy,can she talk"). In general I do really well, even though I have some challenges. I am thankful for those challenges. They make me humble and more understanding of others. To be able to know the good, you have to experience some bad. I am able to live through tough times because I know better times are ahead. When I visit with others in the pool, we always say,"at least we are here, and at least we are moving." So I am thankful I am here and I am moving!!!! ( I am not ready for the alternative)

Day 6 of Thanks

2008-11-06T14:31:00.001-08:00

Today is Alli Palmer's birthday...Happy Birthday Alli!!! She is two years old today. Way to go my sweet little girl. Alli is one of my favorite people and friend. She is always so glad to see me and says in her little Alli voice "Hi Caro" sometimes it is even "Hi Grandma Caro". We call her one of our rent-a-grandkids. I love you Alli.So today I am thankful for all of our wonderful friends. From Alli Palmer to everyone of our other friends. We are so blessed to have so many friends. Every month we go to dinner with the "AF Girls". These are girlfriends I have had since High School...some even from elementary school. It is so nice to spend 1 night a month and keep our friendship alive and well.We still have many friends from SLC we keep in touch with. There are work friends and neighborhood friends, and even our old ward friends. Through emails and phone calls we keep abreast of the happenings of old and dear friends. Since moving to Pleasant Grove we have met and made new friends. I have become close to the Sisters I visit teach...Amy, Emily and Mel. I have gotten especially close to my partner Mary Ann Sellers. I love each one of them. They each are so unique in their own special way.I have also made many new friends through our neighborhood book club. I hate to name names because I am afraid I will leave someone out, but I have really gotten close to Lindsay, Amber, Jolene, Holly, and so many more. If I left your name out please forgive me. I have renewed friendships with Marianne Hampton through book club and swimming. Speaking of swimming, my swim buddies I spent the summer with are all so special to me. I love you Phyllis, Shirley, Helene, JoAnne and Pam. I cannot wait until summer to get back in the pool with these neat women. Then there have been wonderful visiting teachers who visit me. Jen I can never repay you for your gentle encouragement and support. You will never know what an impact you have had on me. Then there is Becky. Thanks for your love and support and for Jack. Mary Lynn, I am so excited to hear about your mission, through you, my testimony is strenghtened. I must also mention Katie Tucker. She started to visit me through her calling in compassionate service, but has become a good friend. We have had many visits and discussions about books. She has even loaned me books that have become some of my favorites!!!Space is to short to mention all the names of friends we have in the Garden 9th Ward. What a wonderful group, and fantastic ward family we have. Everyone has taken us in and has shown so much love to us. We love you ward family.One friend I know I will have forever is my BFF, CJ Smith. She is such a special and unique person. She builds me up and cheers me up. We know how each other works. We can confide in each other and know that is as far as it will go. She has introduced me to new ways of thinking and new ways to see life. I love her!! Along with CJ, I love her girls. Ardis and Sarah are such good girls. I have grown to love and appreciate them so much. Thanks Smiths!!!As we journey through this life it is so wonderful to have friends to share our experiences with. Each of these good people touch my life and help to make me a better person. How sad it would be not to have friends. I am so blessed with all the unique and special people I have met along the way. I know there even more wonderful friends to meet. So here is a great big thanks to all my friends. Thanks for being you, because I am better for knowing you! President Kimball said (and I am paraphrasing) that the Lord is concern about all of us and knows our needs. He usually answers our prayers and our needs through other people. He has sure answered my prayers by sending friends into my life along the way. Thanks again dear friends!

The "Castle Benoit" Halloween Party!

2008-11-06T06:11:00.000-08:00

Indiana Jones with his following!

Go Indy!

The Party is on "full force!"

Carol directing the Chaos!

The Witch is in!

Itchy Witchy-poo!

Love...True Love.

Our Rent-a-Grandkids...Alli & Blake.

Amber Mann & Her Little Pumpkin Sterling!

Alli Kat!

New President-elect

2008-11-05T08:05:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama won the election for president. I was of course disappointed, but now it is over and we need to move on. I have respect for the office of president. I hope he can pull the country together and get some things that need to be done, accomplished. So onward and upward.
It looks like the gay-marriage amendment in Ca. passed (It is opposed to gay marriage...marriage is between 1 man and 1 woman.) It's a good thing, as Martha Stewart would say. In the Utah elections I think most of the candidates won that I voted for. I hope things will improve in the State and Country. God Bless Us and God Bless the USA. I for one, am so glad it is over for a little while...too long and too much money spent. It is obscene!! All the money and time could be spent in a much better and productive way. Enough Said!!!

Snow/Fifth day of Thanks

2008-11-05T07:41:00.000-08:00

So I opened the blinds this morning and it had snowed and still is snowing. What a beautiful sight to see...fresh, clean, white snow! Today I am thankful for this beautiful place we live. Not only our condo, our city, state, country, but our world. Heavenly Father and his Son created this wonderful world for us. I love the changing of the seasons. The crisp air of a Fall day. The array of Spring colors. The warmth of a Summer afternoon. And the beautiful blanket of snow in the Winter.
I am thankful for our country and those who fight to make us free. I love the state of Utah and the way of life we enjoy here. Pleasant Grove people are so friendly and kind. I am thankful for our home. I love living in Pemberley Condos! We have the best neighbors we have ever had. There has been many a day when we opened the front door and someone has left us a goodie or something from their garden. I am so thankful for our home. It is cozy and homey. We have tried to make it welcoming. It is the perfect set up for Rudy and me. NO STAIRS! I am so grateful we made the choice to move here. What a wonderful blessing!!!

My Thanksgiving Blessing.

2008-11-04T16:48:00.000-08:00

I am Thankful for Carol, She has helped make me the man I have become, no one has shaped me like she has. I am a better man for knowing and Loving her, I am so happy that I have Carol as my Bride, What do you do when all your dreams come true? I thank Heavenly Father every day for having her in my life and seeing the example she is for me. My Parents said it all, they think the Sun and the Moon rises and sets with Carol, I agree...Rudy

Thanksgiving Month

2008-11-04T15:22:00.000-08:00

So I decided each day of the month I would post one thing I am thankful for. I decided this four days into the month, so I am behind already!!! So here are the first four...

November 1...I am so thankful for my Rudy!! If I had to start a gazillion lists it would always start with Rudy! He is my life, my best friend, my confidant, my hero, my love! He makes me laugh when I need a chortle! He is an example of faith. He is so smart and knowledgeable. He is a great cook and dishwasher! He treats me like a queen. He loves me for me and expects nothing more. And he is so darn HANDSOME!!! I thank my Father in Heaven everyday for Rudy! What a lucky girl I am. Rudy is such a blessing in my life! I am thankful to have Rudy for an eternal companion and I love you "no matter what" and forever x 2 !!!!

November 2...I am thankful for my parents. I have the best Mother and Dad! I know everyone says that, but for me it is the truth! Even though my dad is not with me physically, I feel him close around me every day. I hear his advice constantly and remember things he told to me when he was alive. I love and miss you Dad!
I am so thankful we live close to mother now. I love our talks on the phone. She is a good "pick-me-upper" and encourages me to do better. I am grateful for all she does for me and Rudy. I love you Mother!
My parents taught me by example. They taught me good values and to be honest. (And they still teach me). They love me and support me in all I do. They too, are a blessing in my life! Thanks Mother and Dad!

November 3... I am grateful for my two sisters and brother and their spouses. Jane is so talented and helped me to get started in crafty stuff! Ray taught me to "drag main". Ann and I were buddies since we were little. We have had so many fun and spiritual times through-out our lives.
We shared so many experiences together..."Buckboard Motel", Sunday popcorn, Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas bingo and Christmas punch, Camping in the trailers, Yellowstone, Disneyland and more... I am grateful that Jane has Kay and Ray has Paula and someday Ann will have someone too. I have so many memories of so many different things, but one thing I know is that we will always be there for each other. Thanks guys...I love you.

November 4... Today is election day! I am grateful to live in a free country where I am able to vote for our leaders. It is such a privilege to be able to vote. I can remember how excited I was when I turned 18 yrs old and was able to vote in my first presidential election. I have voted in every election since then. I am so thankful for that right.

So I have gotten the first 4 days of my"month of thanks" done. It feels good to be able to express my thanks. I really am so blessed.

Like I said it is election day today. We voted about noon time. We only had to wait about 35 minutes to vote. I thought it would be longer than that. Maybe all those early voters helped out. I voted for John McCain for President. I am hoping he will win. I hope we will know tonight...no more years like 2000!!! If Obama wins I will respect the office of President, but it will be very hard to respect the man. He really makes me worry. I guess life will go on. No one can tell the future. All I know is that we have to stay close to the church and follow the prophet. Thank heavens for a living prophet to guide us!!! (in these latter-days)

Thanks my cutie Rudy

2008-11-03T11:44:00.000-08:00

Just a short note to thank my sweetie for jazzing up the old blog!!! I told him I wanted the count-downs and low and behold they are on here. I couldn't have such a fun blog without him! Don't you all wish you had a "Rudy"? There is only one like him, so sorry ladies I got the original one and only! I am so lucky!

A lot has happened since last blog. I am still waiting for picture up-dates from friends and family (this means you Ann) hint hint. So I will post our fun times when I have a little more time to sit and reflect on all that has gone on... and if I get pics, I will post them too...hint hint!!!

TTFN

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

OK, so these children are not ours, but anyone that knows us, knows we Love Kids and Thanksgiving and just every other holiday, so watch the video to the right and enjoy!!!!! -Rudy

Catch up

2008-10-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

Ok so it has been over a week since our (my) post. I hope I can recall what has happened.
Halloween Party...
Our Halloween party turned out to be a hit. We had so much fun. About 35 kids and parents showed up...maybe more. It was neat to see those who dressed up and the clever costumes everyone came up with. Of course we had to have a costume contest, but being PC everyone won some kind of a prize. We played a few games and I really think the kiddies had bunches of fun. The guests were asked to bring a finger food (no human fingers please). We had wonderful, yummy treats. There were lots of different kinds, so it turned out well. Everyone who came thanked us so much and told us how much fun they had. I think we may make it a tradition. We had a gas planning and putting it on. Amy Palmer took lots of pics for us (still no camera).So as soon as she sends them I will post all the fun candid shots.

Family Halloween Party
On Saturday Oct 25th we had a family party at my sister Jane's house. Jane is such a party planner and giver. She had everything decorated so fun. First we had craft time. She had foam Halloween shapes that we could decorate. Rudy and I both decorated cute pumpkins, which are proudly displayed at home. Then I made a skull and cross-bones. All the kids...and grown-ups had fun being crafty. After crafting we had lunch. Jane had made pulled-pork sandwiches. Yummy, Yummy, Yummy!!! The rest of us contributed salads and dessert. It was a scrumptious meal. After lunch, she had all the kids meet in the basement where she had a spook-alley of sorts. It was dark and they had to feel a monster brain (wet sponge), witches fingers (pretzels) bat bones (small twigs) etc. You get the picture. To top it off she had "Rudy's toenails" (slivered almonds). They had a good time. When everyone was spooked she had them go outside to "Bob for doughnuts". You should have seen the chocolate faces. When all the fun and games were over, we had a good visit. We had not been together for a party since the 24th of July. Again I had to depend on someone else to take me pictures. Of course it was "Camera Ann". She said she would send them to me, so I could put them on my blog. I hope she does it soon. Maybe I need to bug her.

During the Week...
We had Blake and Alli Palmer over while Amy did some errands. We love when we get to have "play dates". We love them as if they are our own grandchildren. And they love us unconditionally. We have so much fun with them. They love the "toy bag", the Disney books and movies. I adore little Alli and her cute little voice. She makes my heart so happy. She is so smart and picks up things so fast. I will say something and the next thing I know she is saying it. She sat by me in Church on Sunday during the primary program. (Can I say I just love the primary program!!!) When the children were singing "I am a Child of God" I was singing in her ear and by the second verse she was singing.."lead me, guide me" etc. Blake is smart also. He has such a good time with the Rudster. It is a guy thing! Rudy is so good with kids. They just love him...see Noah Harper...and I do too.
Also so during the week Rudy has been decorating the house for Halloween. Did I mention it is one of his favorite holidays. He saw a craft on TV about how to make balloon spiders. Now we have a whole spider web full of them. The only thing I hate about his "Halloween things" is the air horn. I absolutely hate it. If I could chuck it I would. One more thing I could do without is the "shrunken Head" we have hanging from our living room fan. Can you say "hideous"? It gives me the creeps. But I guess that is what Halloween is all about.
What a long blog with no pictures...hopefully soon my dear picture-takers will send me the pics and all can see what fun we are having and not just hearing about it.

A Very Long Week!

2008-10-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

This has been a very long, hectic week. I taught a class on card making at RS Super Fabulous Friday. It took me all week to get ready for it. I had to pick all the paper, embellishments, glue etc. It was fun and rewarding but alot of hard work. To top it all off, we both had doctor appointments. I went VTing and swimming etc. I know to some it doesn't seem like very much, but to two old cripples it is! When we are used to sitting home and doing not much, going outside is a big deal. (just kidding)

We have our Halloween Party today at the Clubhouse. We have been getting ready for that also. We will be playing games, eating treats and having a fun time visiting with everyone. I hope to get some pictures from someone so we can get some pics posted. More on the party later.

Rudy has been working very hard on our blog. He put some scary movie highlights on it. (It is a short little video thingie) He included a countdown to Halloween also. Can you tell Halloween is one of his favorite holidays? There is now music for your enjoyment, while visiting Chateau Benoit. I am not very fond of music on a blog. I get distracted by the tunes when I am trying to read. I guess I am not very good at multi-tasking. Anywho, he wanted music, so whatever Rudy wants.... We may not have alot of pictures posted, but we have some other "bells and whistles". Thanks Honey! I love when you contribute to the blog. I just wish he would enter some posts about what he is thinking and doing. It would add so much.

It Snowed

2008-10-12T18:06:00.000-07:00

The weather-man said it would, but how often are they right? Well, it did! It SNOWED today. Oct.12, 2008. I think it is to early for snow. What can you do? It was a beautiful sight. The flakes were so big. At least it didn't last long. The sun finally came out and warmed things up a little. It was pretty while it lasted, but it is still to early for snow.

Rudy fell down this morning. Just before we were going to start to get ready for church, I heard a thud. It was the Rudster. That was all he needed to compound his aches and pains. Needless to say we didn't go to church. We put ice on his back and my knee. Not a fun time at Chateau Benoit. But as I said yesterday "life goes on." He is doing much better tonight, of which I am very glad of. I hate to see him hurt.

Life Goes On

2008-10-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

Let me see...what has happened since Tuesday? Well on Wednesday we went to the pool. I always love the pool. I talked to the instructor and she gave me more good suggestions. I could stay in the pool all day, but I can't because life goes on!

On Thursday night we had book club. I love book club as well. I find it interesting to have discussions about the current book and other life experiences. The women in book club are amazing. We are all different ages and at different stages in our lives, but we can talk about anything. They are all so intelligent and interesting. I learn so much from just sitting back and listening. But you know me, can I keep my mouth quiet for long...no! I have to get my two cents worth in. I need to listen more and then I will learn so much. I have grown to love these women so much and I am glad to call them my friends. Isn't it wonderful that life goes on when you have wonderful people to surround you?

Yesterday (Friday, Oct 10) was our Temple wedding anniversary. I love my Rudy so much. He is such a good man and he treats me like a queen. To start the day off, Rudy kicked my butt all the way to the pool. I was feeling a little lazy, but he knew how much I needed to go. Thanks Honey! After the pool, we stopped in to see Mother. It was a good visit, but a short one. I had left my swimming suit on under my clothes (lazy again) and I was freezing! When we got home, we did our Friday house cleaning. It was hard for both of us...my knee and back and Rudy's back and knee. What a pair!!! But life goes on. For dinner we decided to save money and eat at home. Rudy had the fabulous idea of french bread pizza. How good was that? Very good. Rudy made the pizza with lots of gooey cheese and love. Just the way I like it! We ate our dinner in the living room with our legs up! Even though we did not do anything spectacular, we spent the day working and having fun and spending time together. Isn't that what it's all about anyway? I love that life goes on with my Rudy!!! And I know life will go on for eternity with him. I am so blessed!

A Little Lonely Without Bryce

2008-10-07T09:18:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling a little lonely the last little while. Then I finally figured it out. I miss my little friend Bryce. During school time year last year he would come over to visit me every day. He was in Kindergarten so he went a half day, in the morning. We would play guessing games and tell stories and just visit. I miss him more than I thought I would. His family bought a new home in American Fork. I am happy for them, but a bit sad for me. One day Bryce asked me what my wedding rings were. I told him that it showed I was married to Rudy. He told me he would marry me, but I was already married to Rudy. How cute was that. At Christmas time we had our Nativity out. I told Bryce who each figure was...he knew Baby Jesus...and when I got to the Three Wise Men, I told him that they brought the baby gifts. I had him repeat after me...gold, frankincense, myrrh, several times. Then I ask him what the wise men had as gifts. Proudly he said, "gold, Frankenstein, and myrrh." I love that little guy. When Rudy would go to the store, he would find little goodies and treats to give Bryce each day. I think his favorite treat was candy corn. I hope he is getting his candy corn now. Bryce even had his own water bottle in the refrigerator. He knew where it was, so anytime he needed a drink he went and got it himself. I was happy he felt so at home he could do it. Bryce had the best manners. Every time he came in, he took his shoes off. I told him he could keep them on, but he said it was better if he took them off so he wouldn't get anything dirty. I guess now he is in school all day (first grade) so even if he lived near he might not come as much. It is much more fun to play with friends anyway. But I am really thankful I had that time with my special little friend, Bryce. They moved so quickly, I didn't even get a hug, I could only wave goodbye. I hope he remembers a little about the Benoits. We will always remember him and his unconditional love for us. Love you Bryce

Sunday

2008-10-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

Conference was wonderful. How do they know what I need to hear? Every talk was especially for me! I love President Monson. He has such a spiritual and soft way to teach the lessons we need to hear. How lucky are we to have a living prophet on the earth today. Between the sessions of conference there was a special on the TV about the Panama Temple. (Oh, the other temple announced was Philadelphia Pa.) Every boat or ship that goes through the Panama Canal sees the the temple. It is up on the hill in the most beautiful setting. Pres. Hinckley was so inspired when he chose that spot. They also told about an Indian Tribe (I think it is the Kunas...I can't remember for sure)that lives on this little island. Most of the inhabitants are LDS. You could see in their eyes and hear in the voices how wonderful it is to have the church and now a temple so close to them. All the Panamanian members felt the same way. It was a testimony building program. I love conference time. The two hours for each session goes by so fast. All of the music adds to the spiritual nature of the meeting. I cannot wait until the Ensign comes out. With all of the turmoil in the world, it is comforting to hear the words of the Brethren.

Later Sunday night the Smiths come over and we played games. Well, one game to be exact...Trivial Pursuit. Rudy loves that game and is so good at it. He had been waiting a long time to play it again. We had such a good time. We laughed and laughed. Ardis won, with a "little help from her friends". We all got clues from each other, so no one really had an advantage. Nyle does not like "give-aways". But it is like playing "Trivial Pursuit Charades". Finally he came on board and decided it was almost more fun to play that way. After the game, the "boys" exchanged card tricks, while the "girls" retired to the living room. Ardis did her homework while CJ and I gabbed. After Nyle had a short nap, they left about 11:30 (which by the way is very late for Rudy). It was such a fantastic way to end the day. Fun was had by all.

Saturday Night and I ain't got Nobody

2008-10-04T18:18:00.000-07:00

Yes it is Saturday night and I am home alone...Kevin!!!!...Rudy has gone to the Priesthood session of Conference. So here I sit! I guess it is a good thing I am home so I can catch up on blogging. Nothing much has happened that last few days. Same old, same old!

It has been raining all day today, which is good cuz we need the moisture. I don't mind rainy days. I love to cuddle up with a good book. But, I didn't do that very much today because I watched Conference. President Monson announced 5 new temples to be built. The one that caught everyone by surprise is in Rome, Italy. That is wonderful!!! The others (that I can remember) were...Calgary Canada and the greater Kansas City area. I think there was one in Argentina, but I cannot remember the last one. I will find out tomorrow in the newspaper and report back. The Church is really growing. Pres. Monson asked us to pray for those areas that have not approved for the church to be there, to open up their hearts and boundaries. I can't remember exactly what he said, but that was the jist of it. So I will do just that.

I have been working on my children's book, "Carlton". Rudy and I have been dividing it into pages, deciding where to put illustrations and revising it. I can't wait to see what Rudy has up his sleeves for the illustrations. He is so good at that. I think I need to figure out a title for it instead of just "Carlton". That is to boring. I need something about the dog house.I am trying not to let this seem like a pipe dream...but who knows what will happen.

I think I hear some popcorn calling my name...yes there it goes again. I better go answer the call. Later, gator!!!!

Back in the Water

2008-10-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

I have been swimming twice this week and it is only Wed. I went Mon. with Marianne Hampton. Rudy went with me today. It feels good to get back into somewhat of a routine. I talked with the instructor of the class about my knee. She gave me some really good pointers, so I think I will be doing the deep water class tomorrow. I love how I feel in the pool. It makes me feel so good!

I have been working on my children's stories. I like the concept of the Carlton (the dog) books I came up with. I have a bunch written. Now I have to decide how to divide it, revise it and where to go with it. I also have several short rhyming stories in mind. I have written "Relax Max", "Way to Go, Joe" and "Sit Still, Jill". I want Rudy to illustrate them, so I can see how they will look. I have a few more rhyming ones yet to figure out. It has been fun and challenging for my brain. That has been all I have thought about for the last week. No wonder why I haven't blogged since Fri. I guess I am not as good at multi-tasking as I thought.

For Super Saturday (which is really "Fabulous Friday" in our ward)I am teaching a card making class. You get to make 6 cards for $5.00. I think that is a fair price. Anyway, the Relief Soc. asked me to teach. Ha Ha Ha! What do I know about it? I just sit down and see what paper I have and go from there. I have made a bunch of examples for the sisters to see. I hope they will be okay. I am not a pro and I am sure there are many, more qualified than me. But, I love to make cards, so I hope it goes well...more later. I wish I had a camera. We could take pictures of the cards I make (RS B-day cards etc). Then I could see what I have done and get more ideas. Oh well, maybe for Christmas. I would like to post some fun pictures of family and friends on our blog. That would make it so much better. Do you hear me Rudy? I want a camera!!!!

Girls/Boys Night

2008-09-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

Last night my Rudy and Nyle went to the movie. ("Dark Knight") So not to be left out, the girls went out too. CJ and I went to BYU to pick up Ardis. After getting RDK we went for a nice little ride. What should we do? We weren't to hungry, but there is always room for ice cream. So we made our way back close to home to a new place called "SubZero". They freeze what ever kind of flavors you want into one wonderful bowl of ice cream. I had caramel and raspberry flavors with almonds. It was deliciouso! (Ardis is studying Spanish). They start with some kind of creamy base, then add the flavors and freeze it into ice cream with liquid nitrogen. It is cool how it is done. We sat down and had a good visit. We got there just in time. It got really busy while we were eating. It must be a very popular place.

After our fill of dessert we decided to go home, sit around and just talk. On the way home we decided to see if Verna Jo wanted to come over to my house with us. Well, she brought popcorn. Who am I to turn down popcorn. We laughed and remembered the "olden days". After doing some homework Ardis popped over for more laughs. It was so nice just to lounge around and have girl talk.

Just after ten pm, Rudy and Nyle got home. So we had some "boy plus girl talk. (of course we had to hear how wonderful the movie was, boy, was glad I didn't go to the movie... that would have been 3 hours I would have never gotten back). After a few moments of political debate, we settled into a more pleasing discussion. The Smiths left about 11:00pm. All in all I had a very good evening. I know Rudy did too...he wants to see the "Dark Knight" again. I guess he will be going by himself!

Bubble, No Trouble

2008-09-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

Rudy and I went swimming under the bubble today. I had heard it was hard to breathe and really stuffy. Well, we had no trouble. Actually, it was nice.The water was a little colder than usual, but other than that we had a geat time. It felt so good to be back in the water. Dell and Dolores Sanders were there. I talked with "Dolly" for a few minutes. She told me she was still using the cards I had made (to sell at the garage sale last year). As I remember she bought quite a few. She is interested in buying more. So I guess I will make some and leave with Mother to show her. She can get them if she wants some more.

I want to go up the canyon to see the leaves. I am trying to talk Rudy into going tomorrow. I hope he will take me. We could take a little picnic and have a fun time. CJ and Nyle Smith want to go, so maybe we could ask them. I love to see the leaves change. It is so beautiful. The reds, yellows and oranges are so vivid and bright. Heavenly Father sure gave us a beautiful world to live in. Each season of the year is so unique. We are so blessed.

Darn Knee

2008-09-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

My left knee has really been giving me fits the last week or so. I have not left the house because it hurts to walk. I didn't even make it to church, and I hate missing church. While in the shower, the knee gave out and I nearly fell. I didn't want to fall at church, so I stayed home. Rudy helped me and put heat on it. We have put cold on it and today a brace. We have tried everything, even an injection. I guess I need a new knee (besides a new body). Not being able to swim has contibuted to the pain, so I am for sure going tomorrow!!!

I haven't done much but watch TV (so boring) and reading (love It). I have made some cards for Relief Society, but I cannot sit to long with bended knee. So, I don't need to say I am going CRAZY!!!

Not Much Happening

2008-09-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

It has been a slow couple of days. Not much news. I went Visiting Teaching yesterday. I love the sisters I visit. Mary Ann Sellers is my partner. She is great. I love her as a partner. We visit Emily Ables, Mel Valletta and Amy Palmer. I am very happy when I get my VT done before the end of the month. I don't like to wait until the last day. Mary Ann is that way too, so we get along fine!
My visiting Teachers (just teacher) came to visit me last night. Jen Anderson came with out Becky Mc Ginnis (Becky was sick). Jen and I had such a good visit. We talked about Motherhood and children and babies. I feel close to both of my visiting teachers and love them so! Of course, I owe a lot to Jen. She got me to start walking. She had such a gentle nudge, and never gave up on me. She was encouraging and patient with me when we were walking together. I owe her so much.

I am getting a cold. YUCK!!! My throat is sore and lots of snot! Sorry about that, but what else can you call it? (nasal drainage, phlegm, boogers (gross) nasal congestion)I think you have the picture or, I better say idea. No mental pictures, please. Any way, it is drugs to the rescue. I love day-time and night-time Quils. And don't forget the Ziacam. Oh, and of course SLEEP!! nightie, night!!

Our little Princess was here today!

2008-09-16T16:40:00.000-07:00

Speaking of Palmers...Allison came for a "play date" today. We were so excited she got to come over. Amy dropped her off and she stayed with us for about 2 hours. I really know the meaning of "How time Flies when you are having fun", after her visit. It went by so fast. I love little Alli. She calls me "Grandma", "Grandma Caro", or just plain old "Caro". I love hearing her little voice as she jabbers on and on to the toys. Most of it I can understand...because she talks so well for being almost 2 yrs old...and some I can't. Some of the cute things she will say are:
1. I don't see it
2. I see it
3. My Princess
4. Fishy
5. Whoa
6. Ok
7. I don't know.
She talks so fast, it is hard to hear her sometimes. Wudy and Caro love her to come over to play!!! Rudy blew up a balloon and drew a picture of a Princess face on it, including the crown. She was so excited to have a pink princess balloon. So Blake wouldn't be left out, Rudy got a blue balloon and drew Sully (from Monsters Inc.) on it.(by the way Blake was at pre-school) I hope he liked it, cuz it sure was cute! We read lots of stories, watched the fishy, had some milk and treats, read more stories and played with the toys. It was a fun morning. I hope she comes again soon! It sure makes our day.:)

Amy and Tyler

2008-09-16T16:37:00.000-07:00

As it turns out, Amy did take a picture of her and Tyler. She sent it along, so of course we had to post it to show they swam with the rest of us on Saturday. We love the Palmer family so much. Thanks, Palmers for sharing your "little Loves" with us, cuz we love them too!

Amy and Baby Tyler at the Pool

2008-09-16T06:08:00.000-07:00

Later Sunday Night

2008-09-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I got rejuvenated last night when Hampton's called and asked Rudy to come over and fix their remote control. Marianne told Rudy to bring me along. It took about 2 minutes for Rudy to find out the problem and 40 minutes to have a good visit with Don and Marianne. They are such fine, good people and we had a great visit. Then we went out on what I tease Rudy as "Pemberley Patrol". We simply ride around the neighborhood (looking for someone to visit with). We stopped and talked to Rick Voss, then saw Mailani out with Darcy dog. Rudy needed a pet fix, so we stopped and visited with her for a minute. While there, CJ came out and said we must of ESP. She was getting ready to come to visit us. I told we would go home so she could come over. Her and Rolly showed up about 3 minutes later. We had such a nice visit. We lounged back on the sofa with our legs up and talked for about a hour. She just brightens my life. I love her outlook. She makes me "chortle"!! We both laughed and commiserated about our lives. We just understand each other so well! What a wonderful way to end the Sabbath!!!!

By the way Carol means "Song of Joy". So I am just "Song of Joy", while CJ is redundant and is "Song of Joy Joy". She truly brings JOY into this world. I hope I can live up to that name...by bringing a little joy here too!!

Sunday/ "It's a Good Thing"

2008-09-14T16:21:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I don't think of Sunday as a day of rest. I seem to be so tired along about 5:00pm. You get up in the morning, start getting ready for church, grab a quick bite to eat and then out the door. You are at church for 3 hours, then get home, get dinner ready, eat, do the dishes and then it is time to collapse! Why am I so tired?

I marvel at all the young mothers and fathers out there! Taking care of the little ones at church is a BIG job. I just don't know how they do it. We had little ones coming and going all during Sacrement Meeting. Trying to keep them quiet,from crawling all over the floor, from throwing the toys like a ball, from crying and most of all helping them to be reverent, is a full time job. Don't get me wrong...I love all of our little friends...but I must be getting old!!! It wore me out! Ah ha, maybe that is why I am so tired today!(but what about all of the other Sundays?)

I do enjoy going to church each Sabbath and hearing all the gospel nuggets. I feel so refreshed for the following week. I am always learning something new. That is how we grow in the gospel and help our testimonies. I really love our ward family! You can feel the sisterhood in Relief Society and feel everyone's love. As Martha Stewart says..."It's a Good Thing!"

Houston, we have pictures!

2008-09-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

Hooray!!! We now have some current pictures to show everyone. Like I said earlier, we went to the pool with the Palmers. We now have pics to prove it. Are they just about the cutest kiddies you have ever seen? I love my little Alison and Blake and even baby Tyler too.(don't forget mommy Amy) Although we have no photos of Tyler, he was there. We also need a picture of Amy to make it complete! To bad she couldn't take one of herself! lol
We played some Benoit "invented" games. There was that fun one..."Shark in a cage". And then the counting game of "One, two, three" (while twirling, of course). Last, but not least, "Ride the horse, Yahoo". They were just silly made-up games. All of us loved playing them. We laughed and had a good "chortle"! Now we just have to wait a gazillion months to swim again.

2008-09-13T19:08:00.000-07:00

The Day After/Pool time with the Palmers

2008-09-13T12:25:00.000-07:00

It is the morning after the fun party last night. What a fun time!!! Lots of girlies were there and lots of treats. No old codgers like me though. Wow, did they miss out. We played games and snacked and sang and snacked and snacked. Some of the girls played a video (I guess that is what it is called) that you have guitars and drums. I guess it is really popular and I guess I am really behind the times not knowing what it is called. I played Scatagorries and Tabu. We laughed and had a bunch of fun. There are some real smarties. I was totally impressed. I had a good visit with Jolene Munford and Amy Palmer. I was glad I went, but wished more of the more "mature" sisters would have been there...if ya know what I mean!

Amy Palmer called this morning to see what time we were going to the pool. We decided to meet her and the kiddies at 10:30. I got there just right after 10:30 and was just getting ready to get in and here came Blake, Ali, Tyler and Mom Amy. Ali said, "Hi Grandma Carol". I just love it when she calls me grandma. Sometimes she just calls me Carol and that is so cute too. She says CARO in her little 2 yr. old voice and it melts me. We all got into the pool (except baby Tyler). Blake is so brave, he jumps in and splashes all over. He laughs when he splashes you. Ali was getting use to the water and it took her a little while to feel safe with me holding her. Finally she let me hold her and we played and had so much fun. Rudy showed up after going to the store, and he played with us for about another hour. All in all we swam for about 2 hours. Time just flew by. Amy took lots of pictures and she is going to send them so I will be able to post up-to-date pics! Hooray!!! What a fun way to spend a fun day...playing with the Palmers!!! I love them all so much!

Girls night out tonight

2008-09-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

We went to AF's pool today. I wanted Rudy to experience the pool without the bubble on it. We went about 10:10, for about a hour. It was not to chilly. The pool is closed all next week and Pemberley's pool closes on the 15th...so no swimming for a whole week. While we at the pool, Shelley Elementary had a bunch of school kids there for PE. How fun is that...we never had that kind of fun for PE. While swimming we talked to some cute girls. Two of them looked very familiar. After asking some questions we found out they were Kathie Miller's (Adamson)daughters. How about that!!

Tonight the RS is sponsoring a "Girls night out" at Pemberley Clubhouse. Chick flicks, games, visiting, snacking and more visiting is on the schedule. We are each suppose to bring a snack to share. I think I will take Popcorn...what else...it is my favorite and is way easy. Rudy asked me if I was staying until 11:00pm when it is suppose to be over. Well, of course. What is one thing I do good? Visit!!!!! I hope someone takes pictures so I have some to post on this blog. Maybe they will share. It would be fun to have some up-to-date pics.

We stopped to see Mother after swimming today. We interrupted her cleaning. She looked very tired. We had a very good visit. It was nice to see her.

Sept 11

2008-09-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

It was 7 years ago that the World Trade Center was attacked (besides the Pentagon and Shanksville Pa.) It feels like it was yesterday. I was watching the news this morning and they were showing the news reports of how it happened that day. I remember where I was watching back then. It is surreal. I still watch the plane hitting the building and cannot believe it happened. I can remember those feelings I had that day. Feelings of horror, anger, worry, that something else might happen. We were glued to the TV both day and night. How that day changed the world we live in. We will never be the same. My prayers are that something like this will never happen here on our promised land again. How grateful I am to know we have a loving Father in Heaven who will never leave us in times of trial. I am so thankful for that knowledge. Today is a solemn day. A day of remembrance. A day of gratitude... grateful to be a United States citizen. A day to honor all those who fight for the freedom that I enjoy.And a day to pray for those families who lost friends and loved ones that horrible morning in September.
Also today is Rudy's father's birthday. So happy birthday Dad Benoit. We love you and miss you.

Rain Stayed

2008-09-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

The rain did stay most of the day. There was thunder and lightning. Our power went off (for only about 10 minutes). Just long enough that we had to reset all the clocks. What a pain!!! Rudy was my hero and did it promptly. What a guy!

I know, I know, I talk about swimming alot, but, remember it is an obsession. So back to swimming...none today. I tried to be in a good mood and I think I have been. I guess Raola's little girl is growing up. I hope the weather is better tomorrow, so I can keep swimming, swimming, swimming...Dori said that in Finding Nemo for all you movie buffs... it is one of my favorite sayings. When life gets tough, just keep swimming, swimming, swimming!!!

Rain, Rain go away

2008-09-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

Well, not really. We need the moisture. We just can't go swimming in the rain. I woke up really early...5:45...and saw it had been raining. I wondered if it was suppose to rain all day, so I tuned in to the local news. Yes, it is suppose to rain most of the day. Oh well. Maybe it will stop later and we can go to Pemberley Pool. I went back to bed for about a hour. Got up, took my pills and read for awhile. It feels kinda gloomy today with the rain and dark clouds. I think I will just snuggle with a blanket and a book for most of today. If I can't go swimming, reading is the next best thing. I guess I could do some cleaning up around here...maybe not...reading sounds better on a rainy day!

Chortle

2008-09-09T10:55:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love the word chortle? I was trying to find some differnt words for chuckle and laugh and found the word chortle. That is a new favorite word. Chortle...it just makes you want to snicker, giggle, titter and even chuckle or laugh.

So do you love the Melissa shoe site? I love, love, love those red Oswald shoes. I want some so bad. Of course I love the red ones, but they had them in black and white. What a hard decision. I guess I will have to get both. Yea, right. Maybe when we get rich (just rich, not rich and famous)I can get a pair.

I went swimming at Pemberley pool this morning. It was a little coolish until I got in the water. The water was warm. The pool girls were chit-chatting and swimming away and lo and behold who should show up...MY RUDY! He finally came swimming with the "girls". I had told him I didn't think many would be there this morning and he ask if I wanted him to come along. I tried to get him to come (I love being with my Rudy)and he said no way. I guess he changed his mind, cuz there he was. We stayed a little while after all the ladies left and had a nice time. We laugh...oh I mean chortle...and have a great time together. He is going with me tomorrow to the AF pool. I know he will like it there.

On the way home I stopped to visit with Amber Mann and Jolene Munford. They had their strollers out and were walking. They are such cute girls and their kids are so adorable. We have so many fun, younger women with little ones, that live here in Pemberley. I enjoy visiting with them. Amber and Jolene are fun to visit. They make me CHORTLE alot. While we were visiting, I stood there dripping. Jolene's little boys were giving me funny looks. I think she realized the boys were thinking my dripping was something else...if ya know what I mean. She explained that I had just gotten out of the pool and it wasn't what they thought it was. Well, we all had a good chuckle out of that. It didn't even dawn on me, the kids thought it was something else. I guess that happens when you are not around curious little children much. But mothers tune into those kinds of things right away. Yea for all you mothers out there!!!!

Melissa's Plastic Dreams

2008-09-08T14:31:00.001-07:00

Just today we found a must see site, check it out for the very latest in Shoes. This is just one of their styles.
http://www.melissaplasticdreams.com/collection/fall-winter-08-09/black

2008-09-08T12:04:00.001-07:00

A.F pool and Me

2008-09-08T09:10:00.000-07:00

I went to the AF pool this morning with Phyllis. It was my first time there. It was very nice. The water was warm and the temp outside was not bad at all. For 8:00am, I thought it would be a bit more chilly. They have a class for people with arthritis and it is a low-impact class. Just right for me. I could do most all of the exercises, but one or two that hurt my knee. I really enjoyed it. All the "old codgers" were fun. Some of the things they said made me laugh. Telling each other about their colonoscopies etc. It was almost a little to much info. I guess I am getting to the old codger stage, well "old codger in training" stage!!! I am not quite ready to tell about all my health troubles...but maybe I do, do that. Oh no...I am an "old codger in infancy" stage. One lady they call "Shorty" is 83! Good for her! I hope I am still swimming at 83 years old.
I told Rudy he is going with me on Wednesday. So he should just make up his mind now that he is going. I really think he will go, but we will have to wait and see. There was plenty of men there so he won't feel out of place

Religious Holiday

2008-09-07T18:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, so me and Rudy had a religious holiday today. We didn't go to church. It was a regional conference. We should have gone, but sometimes....
I did listen to The MoTab Choir...doesn't that count? Also I listened to a "Time Out for Teens" talk on channel 11 this morning.It actually was a very good talk. I know that was not as good as going to Conference. I really needed to take my water pill this morning, so that is my excuse and I am sticking to it.
The rest of the day I have just read and had a nap. I have been very tired and I took advantage of this "day of rest". All good excuses...right...NOT!!!! Oh well, I am not perfect by any means.
I am reading a book about Jackie Kennedy's cousin, Little Edie and Aunt(Big) Edie Bouvier Beale. It is called "Grey Gardens", and it very interesting. There was a Broadway play made about them. Also there was a documentary film made. They are very eccentric and off beat, with all kinds of animals (rats, raccoons,cats and other animals) living in this old broken-down, dirty mansion in the Hamptons. I would love to see the documentary. I hope I can find it somewhere...maybe the library or something. Very, very interesting.
I just found out John McCain's first wife was named Carol. His life story is very interesting. I remember reading the book "Hanoi Hilton". What torture those soldiers went through. His now wife, Cindy is worth about 100 million dollars. Like I said what an interesting story...
Boy all I can say today is interesting...I guess today has just been "interesting"!!

Friday and Saturday

2008-09-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to a really nice party at Joann and Don Able's home. It was a Harvest Dinner. She made the whole dinner...all but the chicken...out of fresh garden goodies. Everything was freshly picked and cooked yesterday. We had corn on the cob, fresh green beans with haselnuts, 2 different kinds of squash she had broiled, marinated chicken breasts (marinated in soy sauce and homemade grape juice from their garden),tomato and cucumber salad, a tomato and basil soup with french bread and for dessert fresh fruit. She had combined watermelon, cantaloupe,rasberries and grapes. It was so refreshing. We had a good visit with good friends (swimming buddies) and great food. Both Rudy and I loved it.

Pemberley had the final outdoor movie last night. We were not planning on going,but we stopped to see what was happening on our way home from the Harvest party. They had not started the movie yet so we decided to run home and grab jackets, chairs and blankets and go back and enjoy the movie. It was the movie "Hoodwinked". We had never seen it before. It was a cute,funny animated movie. I laughed alot. Noah and his mom sat by us, which was fun. All of a sudden, before I knew it there was Phyllis Yalovich. She sat down by us and then here came Helene Davis and she sat with us. We had yummy popcorn and really good Rootbeer. I do not know what kind it was but it was in a bottle and very cold and it hit the spot. The HOA also provided candy bars and other candy beside the drinks and popcorn. It was a great way to end the day. It was a very, very good day!!!

After such a busy day yesterday, we have just kind of hung around all day doing not much of anything. I did finish "Breaking Dawn"!!!!! Finally!!! What a boring, boring and many more borings book! She could have saved an entire forest by writing what she wrote, in 100 pages or less, instead of 754!!!. Talk about going on and on! Yes, I guess I have been going on and on about this dumb book. So it is over and done....enough said!!!

I did go to the pool around 1:30 today. We were there a little over a hour. There were a few people there so it wasn't my own private pool today. I guess you can't have it that way all of the time...only most of the time!

Our blog has sound?

2008-09-06T19:14:00.000-07:00

I started to re-read what I had written when all of a sudden I heard all of these weird noises. Bong! Splat! Pop! What was going on? "That Rudy. What has he done to our blog?" I had told him I didn't want music and now we were sounding like "Rice Krispies"! (you know snap, crackle pop) After a little bit more investigation, I realized it was the cute Toy Story picture frame he had around some of the pics. So if you hear any noises...you can thank Toy Story and my Rudy!!!!

Another day, another post

2008-09-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

Do you call it posting or blogging? I don't know. All I know is it has been fun. It is kind of like computer journaling. So I made it through another day of blogging and I promise not to keep counting down the days. It was an achievement to make it more than one day for me. Sometimes I start something and so not complete it!!!

I got up early this morning to read. Like I said I am forcing myself to finish "Breaking Dawn". I have less than 100 pages to go. Yea!!! Ann is coming to get the 3rd book of the "Twilight" series, so I would like to give her the fourth one also. I am not sure if I will complete it in time. I won't let myself start a new book until I finish this one. That is motivation right there!!!!!!!!!(see what I mean about not completing a task...I need motivation)

We stopped by to see Mother yesterday and had a good visit. She seemed very happy to see us. We had not been over to her house for a while, so it was good to see her. I usually talk to her almost everyday,on the phone, but don't go see her enough!!!We also did some errands for Aunt Lorraine, and stopped by to see her. Ann and Aunt Lorraine's house is looking like home now, and I really think they both are liking it alot. Ann has painted her front door and trim a bright red (of course). Is there any other color than red. It must be in our genes, because Dad loved red and of course it is my color!!! I really want to paint a red wall in our house...hopefully I can get that done before long.

We had a really good day yesterday.(even though I didn't swim...remember it is a obsession) It was great to get out and about. I love these fallish days. Not to hot and not to cool. Just right.

Where does the time go? I can't believe it is 8:30!!! I better get going. I need to get Mr. Benoit going!!! He has to go to physical therapy this morning and I need to do laundry...YUCK...and clean the house...YUCK...and go swimming after...HOORAY!!! I think after Rudy gets home from PT, I will make him go to the pool. It is suppose to be warm today. later gator...........

I am a blogger!!

2008-09-04T18:22:00.000-07:00

I told my Mother about my blog. She has no idea what I am talking about. Until a few months ago neither did I!! So maybe someday.... No I don't thinks so. She will never have a computer. My dear, sweet, non-electronic mother. I still love her though she is still so 20th century!
I did not go swimming today! Rats!!! I am so disagreeable when I don't. But...one good thing happen. I got, well both Rudy and I, got a membership to the American Fork Fitness club. A covered pool in the winter. My idea of a good time. I am so excited. We got a rehab/diability rate. Yea!!!
Tomorrow night we are invited to a Harvest Party at Joanne Able's home. I am pretty stoked to go. Phyllis Yalovich is her mother and both are swimming buddies. It will be fun and Rudy gets to meet her and others. I cannot wait.
Well the convention is coming on. I want to hear Cindy McCain. So ttfn (I think that is ta ta for now)