My cute Alli

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!!!!