April 26-30 Sam Newey and I ventured back to Jamaica. What a trip it was. Being there was both good and bad – good because I was able to renew acquatinces and see the island that I came to love so much as a missionary, but bad because of news of received.
Once CFNA was complete, Sam and I headed off from Miami to Jamaica. We arrived there on Wednesday, April 26, 2006 and arrived at 8:00. Like so many things in JA, getting the car and on our way took longer and was more of a hassle than what you would come to expect in the U.S. However, they have very little of the technology and infrastructure that we so readily take for granted, although the emergence of cellular technology has seemingly improved communications there.
We headed the first day to Ocho Rios to stay at a little hotel on the beach called Rooms on the Beach. Of course, we had to stop and get some Jerk Chicken at a little highway stop, and it was so very good. What a great dish that is. Right off the fire, coupled with a Ting soda, and complimented with a couple slices of Hard-do bread – it is hard to beat.
The next day we headed out to go to Port Antonio – right along the North Coast. Making the way is so time consuming – I totally forgot how hard it can be to drive there. In fact, the whole time we drove I was probably more uptight than I should’ve been. But seeing the country brought back some wonderful memories.
We picked up a couple of guests along the way. A little school girl on her way to school in Highgate and a lady who was doing flag man duty at one of the construction sites. The little girl was so cute – it made me think of how much I loved the children there. IN fact, Sam and I both got a kick every time we drove by a school and saw all of the school pickney outside playing. I asked the girl to teach me some Patios, to which she said she didn’t know any. Know it or not, she was definitely speaking Patios. The woman – Angela was her name – spoke with us about how difficult life is there for Jamaicans. It’s hard for me, or anyone really, to understand the plight of the Jamaican people. It’s a hard life that has very little in terms of consistency. It seems that a large percentage of the population scraps by mostly by the grace of God. How people make ends meet when they don’t have an education or steady employment is very hard to understand. I need to be more grateful than I’ve been because we have it so nice. I never wonder where my next meal will come from, and yet I still complain about my life.
The road to Port Antonio ended in a place called Annotto Bay. After 3 hours of driving, we simply couldn’t see ourselves making it there and back. On one little stretch alone, we got into a jam – I think it was construction related, and just sat there and waited. This happened on our way from Ocho Rios to Linstead as well. There is certainly a “no worries” attitude in the island which is refreshing if not alien to my current life. Everything for me is now, now, now. There, people move at a slower, more relaxed rate that means that we shouldn’t come with preconceived notions of how long something should take, cause it will always take more time than you think.
Sam and I journeyed out into town when we arrived back in Ocho Rios the first day. This time of year seemed very quiet – not many tourists. I was surprised how vulnerable I felt there – so conspicuous. I think that’s how I must’ve felt early in my mission, but soon afterwards really felt like I was Jamaican. Not this time. I think that impacted how I felt about interacting with the people. If I think back, I guess there was always a small sense of distrust in my mind when I was out in the open in Jamaica on my mission. But I had forgotten this, and was just a little surprised that both Sam and I weren’t more brave – or stupid – to wander out into the cities more. Evn places like Linstead, Bog Walk, and Kingston seemed so foreign to me.
The next day we checked out of our hotel and hit the road – this time to Kingston. We went through Bog Walk and Linstead, but they looked so different. I knew I had lived there, but couldn’t remember details. Things came so quickly too – I would recognize bits and pieces, but only on a small scale. I was surprised by this. And disappointed too. When I lived in Jamaica, I tried to take mental snap shots so I would never forget. But forget I have. Still, it was nice to see the Linstead chapel where I was impacted so much. The town seemed so very busy, though it was Friday. The chapel looked thrashed – the one in Kingston did as well. When we lived there they were very well kept – but now seem a shadow of what they were. People occupying their halls makes a difference, but time had aged them, no question.
From Linstead we headed through Spanish Town to Kingston. We were fortunate enough to arrive during a zone conference. It was funny to meet missionies and see them, They looked so young – and I’m sure I looked so old. We spoke to the Mission President, older couples, and many of the missonaries about our friends – the people we taught. WE were even able to locate President Brown, the distraict president. He gave me news that broke me.
I asked him about Deolores and her family. He didn’t really even know who I was talking about until I mentioned Delores hand. Then the bad new. He told me that sweet little Kerry Ann who I loved so much had been murdered 1 ½ years ago by some evil people. I didn’t really even hear any more. My Kerry Ann. Memories flooded my mind of us, as a family, gathered around their small little home in Grants Pen, with nothing more than candles, scriptures, and each other.
I loved Kerry Ann – she really took to the Gospel, and was only matched by Delores in faith. Erica and Marshare were along, but Kerry Ann was young enough, uncorrupted enough, to really believe and follow. The only news that bore me up in the moment was knowing that she died true to the faith. That she had been going to seminary, had graduated, and was beginning institute. That she had stayed true to the faith was the only news of that day that meant anything. I was so proud of her, yet so broken to learn what had happened. Plus, the details of how it had occurred…that kind of heartless, evil should not happen to such a sweet person. Kerry Ann must’ve been 19-20 when she was murdered. I prayed for her that day, and will continue to do so. I will also do her temple word soon, so she can enjoy the blessings that she has earned.
Though she is gone, I still remember her. I see in my mind flouring her on her birthday, and hearing her say “Hi Elder Kennedy”. I hope to never, ever lose those memories.
While in Kingston I had the privledge to see Kava Grant. He’s turned out so well – he’s in the district presidency, and is married. His wife has a baby from a previous engagement. He is a courier in Kingston and rents in Portmore. He looked so good – much like he did when he was younger. I cannt tell you how wonderful it was to see him. It made me feel that maybe, just maybe, my being there helped someone. He seemed to be on the right path. I hope to continue correspondence with him. I will also do his mother’s temple work, somoething I have neglected to do. I’m ashamed by that. He lost half of his foot in an accident, but fortunately he looked like he was managing thorugh.
Jamaicans are interesting. The live with such suffering and hardships. Because they live so close to these, they are not nearly impacted as I might be. It’s almost expected, and as a result, not surprising when it happens. I think this is one of the reasons they stay so close to God, in nothing else, in their hearts. Because they need that hope – cuase it comes from no where else. No one is there for them, no one is there ready to help them if they fall. It’s sad, but maybe that kind of humilty is what I and so many others need. The fall though, is great there. So much hardship and pain. I sort of understand it, but have only ever seen it. I’ve seen how hard some have to work, how difficult lives can be. But I’ve never felt it, and I hope never to.
Kingston is being overrun with gangs. Ruthless gangs who are organized and who fight in ways that exceed the violence I heard about.
We left Kingston and headed to Old Harbour. I only saw the town, and couldn’t find where Valcian, Angela, and Keisha lived. It just didn’t seem familiar to me. But there is a branch in Old Harbour, and I beilieve they told me that Valcian is the relief society president. I’m thrilled by that too, because she has stayed true to the faith in spite of difficulties and problems. I’m happy for her, and wish she would write me.
Sam had a good time in May Pen – I never lived there, but I remember it well. It hadn’t changed much. We stopped and had some Juici Beef patties and coco bread – what is that meat in there? I was a little intimidated running into Juici Beef on my own, but no harm came to me.
We traveled all that day, arriving in Negril at 7:00 PM, just in time to see the sunset. It was beautiful, no question. Our hotel was small, quaint, and it felt very much like a missionary apartment. No TV, hotter, etc. But it was nice in it’s own way because there weren’t all of the distractions.
I loved the beach there…I could just sit, and sit, and sit. The water was the most beautiful color, and the whole environment combined equaled paradise. I did one little excursion – went snorkeling by myself with Captain Mike. The water was so comfortable, and I was able to see many fish, spiky sea creatures, and some jelly fish. I was, of course, a little nervous, but I was so bouytany in the sea that I didn’t even need a jacket to float – one of the nice advanteges of being Mumpy.
Negril was nice – I felt relaxed at the end, and was happy to have seen it finally.
Jamaica is different than I remember it. Like most things, it has changed with time. Some of the changes are probably good – many are not. I was a lot more critical of the people – sad at the choices that they make. I didn’t like having that reaction but I did. I couldn’t help it.
And I’ve changed too. I have a family, a comfortable life, responsibilities. The people I love there are somewhere – I’m not sure exactly what they’re doing now. In some cases they’re gone – Kerry Ann, Cutie, Miss Mary, others?
I’m happy to have gone. I knew that going back would open the door to my mind, make me question the glamorization of the mission. It was hard, things weren’t easy, people were mean, there was hate. But I do know, and still feel, that though the island is hard, the lives difficult, the decisions bad, that Jamaicans are some of the most loving, compassionate, giving, and friendly people there. The one thing I couldn’t do this trip – that I will likely never be able to do again – is build those loving relationships. That ship has sailed. So I must be content with the memories of what was, and the feelings that someday I might be worthy to see those people, enjoy their company again, and renew the relationships. I guess I went back to relive the mission, and ended up seeing an island.
Sunday, January 17, 2016
Note about my girls
A single idea has troubled me for a long time, and that is this: how do I raise my children to be strong in the Gospel? How do I ensure that a new generation of Kennedys is faithful to their covenants and are doing the right things?
My brothers and sisters have been blessed and consecrated in many ways. We've been through a purification of sorts through the humble
My brothers and sisters have been blessed and consecrated in many ways. We've been through a purification of sorts through the humble
The Knight and Dragon
Across the sea was a kingdom. A kind King ruled it in peace, and kept 12 knights as part of his elite defenders of truth and goodness. The smallest of these knights was Archibald. He was not the strongest or the biggest or the flashiest, but he had a heart of gold.
One day the King came to his Knights and told them a dragon was attacking a village. Who would rush to the aid of these people?
Sir Bruno, the largest knight said, “I’m far too busy today working out, sorry,” as he lifted weights over his head.
"Today is not a good day to slay a dragon,” said Sir Ferdinand the Beautiful. “And anyway, I am receiving a special award from the Women’s Relief Assembly.” He flashed his winning smile threw his head backwards, swooshing his golden locks behind his head.
One by one each of the Knights had a different excuse for why they could not help, except for Archibald who simply said, “I will do it.”
From the armory he grabbed his sword (which was as short and light, and more of a knife than a sword) and jumped on his faithful steed Bill (who was no more than a pony) and was off to the village.
When he arrived, he saw the burning huts and screaming villagers. “Help us, help us” they all said. “I will,” he replied.
He followed the burned out homes and singed trees until he arrived at a dark cave with billowing smoke pouring from inside. “Come closer so I can burn you, little knight” called the dragon, her red eyes glowing from within the blackness of the cave.
“I’d prefer not, if you please. My name is Archibald, and I’m here to ask you why you are attacking the village.” He continued, “I assure you, I do not want to fight you; I’d much rather help you so we can both live peacefully together.”
The dragon whispered sadly, “No peace between you and me...not until IT is returned.”
"Until what is returned?” Archibald asked.
“My egg...my precious little child. It was stolen in the night by one of those villagers. If it is not returned to my nest by tomorrow morning, it will be too late and my baby will be lost to me. And if that happens, I will destroy their village and anyone who tries to stop me.”
Archibald understood what she meant. Dragon eggs were very valuable to collectors, and though dragons themselves were powerful, the eggs were delicate. If an egg went more than a day without the warmth of its mother, it would grow hard as a rock and the dragon baby would enter a deep sleep for a hundred years.
Where other knights would draw their swords and charge the dragon given what she said, Archibald used his brain and his heart. “I will not let that happen. I will work tirelessly until I find your egg and return it to you. There is no way I will let you lose your baby. But when I find it and return it to you, do you promise to not attack the village?”
“Yes”, and hope filled her heart for a moment.
Without delay he charged down the hill. He looked in every home, under every bed, and around every corner. He asked, begged, and pleaded with the villagers for help. Each of them looked and looked and looked, knowing their village was at stake. All day and throughout the night they turned over every stone, and still no egg. No one knew where the egg had disappeared to. Fear and dread approached as the sun began to rise over the mountains in the East. It was too late.
Archibald was exhausted. He hung his head and marched up the mountain towards the cave, wondering what he would say to the Mother, and what would happen next.
As he stood there, facing the cave he could hear the breathing from within. He walked closer, standing right at the edge between the light and the dark. She was there too, the heat and smell right in front of him. “I failed...and I’m so sorry”.
She breathed, and he closed his eyes.
But instead of fire, he heard a muffled cry and then a voice, “Thank you for trying, dear little knight.” She stepped out of the cave, but instead of a fierce creature he saw a sad, lowly mother. He hugged her scaly body as she cried over her loss.
As the dragon turned and headed for the cliff, preparing to fly to the Red Mountains, she said, “While I will never see my unborn baby or be his mother, there is still hope. Legend says that if a mother with a pure heart finds and nurtures my egg in love, he may yet be born.”
“I hope that happens,” said Archibald hopefully.
With a great beating of her wings, she was off. But that was not the last time he would see her. They would remain friends for years. The dragon (who he named Ruby, for her beautiful eyes) would help him deal with Ooze the Wizard and many other adventures. She would see the rise of King Archibald and his beautiful Queen Mary, and he would wave good bye as she flew to Dragon Island (where dragons go to live forever).
As for the egg. The thief had become so scared of getting caught that he ran and hid it miles away in the crook of an old tree. He went back later but could never find it again. There it lay for hundreds of years, only to be found by two little mothers who too had hearts of gold. Her baby would hatch and create new adventures for two sisters in a far off time. But we’ll save those adventures for another day.
One day the King came to his Knights and told them a dragon was attacking a village. Who would rush to the aid of these people?
Sir Bruno, the largest knight said, “I’m far too busy today working out, sorry,” as he lifted weights over his head.
"Today is not a good day to slay a dragon,” said Sir Ferdinand the Beautiful. “And anyway, I am receiving a special award from the Women’s Relief Assembly.” He flashed his winning smile threw his head backwards, swooshing his golden locks behind his head.
One by one each of the Knights had a different excuse for why they could not help, except for Archibald who simply said, “I will do it.”
From the armory he grabbed his sword (which was as short and light, and more of a knife than a sword) and jumped on his faithful steed Bill (who was no more than a pony) and was off to the village.
When he arrived, he saw the burning huts and screaming villagers. “Help us, help us” they all said. “I will,” he replied.
He followed the burned out homes and singed trees until he arrived at a dark cave with billowing smoke pouring from inside. “Come closer so I can burn you, little knight” called the dragon, her red eyes glowing from within the blackness of the cave.
“I’d prefer not, if you please. My name is Archibald, and I’m here to ask you why you are attacking the village.” He continued, “I assure you, I do not want to fight you; I’d much rather help you so we can both live peacefully together.”
The dragon whispered sadly, “No peace between you and me...not until IT is returned.”
"Until what is returned?” Archibald asked.
“My egg...my precious little child. It was stolen in the night by one of those villagers. If it is not returned to my nest by tomorrow morning, it will be too late and my baby will be lost to me. And if that happens, I will destroy their village and anyone who tries to stop me.”
Archibald understood what she meant. Dragon eggs were very valuable to collectors, and though dragons themselves were powerful, the eggs were delicate. If an egg went more than a day without the warmth of its mother, it would grow hard as a rock and the dragon baby would enter a deep sleep for a hundred years.
Where other knights would draw their swords and charge the dragon given what she said, Archibald used his brain and his heart. “I will not let that happen. I will work tirelessly until I find your egg and return it to you. There is no way I will let you lose your baby. But when I find it and return it to you, do you promise to not attack the village?”
“Yes”, and hope filled her heart for a moment.
Without delay he charged down the hill. He looked in every home, under every bed, and around every corner. He asked, begged, and pleaded with the villagers for help. Each of them looked and looked and looked, knowing their village was at stake. All day and throughout the night they turned over every stone, and still no egg. No one knew where the egg had disappeared to. Fear and dread approached as the sun began to rise over the mountains in the East. It was too late.
Archibald was exhausted. He hung his head and marched up the mountain towards the cave, wondering what he would say to the Mother, and what would happen next.
As he stood there, facing the cave he could hear the breathing from within. He walked closer, standing right at the edge between the light and the dark. She was there too, the heat and smell right in front of him. “I failed...and I’m so sorry”.
She breathed, and he closed his eyes.
But instead of fire, he heard a muffled cry and then a voice, “Thank you for trying, dear little knight.” She stepped out of the cave, but instead of a fierce creature he saw a sad, lowly mother. He hugged her scaly body as she cried over her loss.
As the dragon turned and headed for the cliff, preparing to fly to the Red Mountains, she said, “While I will never see my unborn baby or be his mother, there is still hope. Legend says that if a mother with a pure heart finds and nurtures my egg in love, he may yet be born.”
“I hope that happens,” said Archibald hopefully.
With a great beating of her wings, she was off. But that was not the last time he would see her. They would remain friends for years. The dragon (who he named Ruby, for her beautiful eyes) would help him deal with Ooze the Wizard and many other adventures. She would see the rise of King Archibald and his beautiful Queen Mary, and he would wave good bye as she flew to Dragon Island (where dragons go to live forever).
As for the egg. The thief had become so scared of getting caught that he ran and hid it miles away in the crook of an old tree. He went back later but could never find it again. There it lay for hundreds of years, only to be found by two little mothers who too had hearts of gold. Her baby would hatch and create new adventures for two sisters in a far off time. But we’ll save those adventures for another day.
A letter to my dad, written October 2000
Dear Dad,
I have always considered myself blessed to have such an incredible dad. You have always been such a great support to me, always encouraging me to succeed and try new things. I know that I am who I am, in large part, because of you.
You introduced me to the world. During my formative years you took us on vacations that helped us expand our knowledge and experiences. Even though we only were able to see you a couple times a week, you were always taking us to the library, the botanical gardens, or museums. I think these times helped me to become more literate, informed and well rounded. It was critical to my development to have so many positive interactions with the outside world and I know that it was you who made this possible.
You helped me learn confidence. I can remember a dozen or so one-on-one conversations with you that really helped me learn to appreciate who I am and where I came from. Let’s face it, when you’re a Kennedy, privacy and individual time is hard to find and is thus treasured when available. However, these individual times were totally important to me and I was always grateful for those times when we could talk together. It helped me get through tough times, like leaving for college and my mission. I hope we can still have many more of these talks in the years to come.
You helped me see the importance of working hard but also the necessity of having fun. I vividly remember watching you learn new sports and activities that reinforced the importance of doing things that you like to do. It helped me forge my own interests and abilities watching my dad do so many cool things. That was very important to me and I think has helped me find happiness.
You helped me see the importance of family. Your attention and dedication to us was always evident and generous. I know there were times that the job market was tight and you were offered positions out of the area that you promptly turned down because it would take you away from us. That means a lot to me and helps me to see how important we are to you.
I guess it’s impossible to truly understand the effect you’ve had on my life. There’s no gauge or tool to measure love, but I know that you love me and I hope you know I love you. I get sad when I think that we’ll probably never live together or spend time together like we once did. However, the memories that I have remind me of a sweet childhood and youth. I am grateful for that. Thank you for being a great dad. You are a stellar person and father and I hope that makes you as happy as it makes me.
I have always considered myself blessed to have such an incredible dad. You have always been such a great support to me, always encouraging me to succeed and try new things. I know that I am who I am, in large part, because of you.
You introduced me to the world. During my formative years you took us on vacations that helped us expand our knowledge and experiences. Even though we only were able to see you a couple times a week, you were always taking us to the library, the botanical gardens, or museums. I think these times helped me to become more literate, informed and well rounded. It was critical to my development to have so many positive interactions with the outside world and I know that it was you who made this possible.
You helped me learn confidence. I can remember a dozen or so one-on-one conversations with you that really helped me learn to appreciate who I am and where I came from. Let’s face it, when you’re a Kennedy, privacy and individual time is hard to find and is thus treasured when available. However, these individual times were totally important to me and I was always grateful for those times when we could talk together. It helped me get through tough times, like leaving for college and my mission. I hope we can still have many more of these talks in the years to come.
You helped me see the importance of working hard but also the necessity of having fun. I vividly remember watching you learn new sports and activities that reinforced the importance of doing things that you like to do. It helped me forge my own interests and abilities watching my dad do so many cool things. That was very important to me and I think has helped me find happiness.
You helped me see the importance of family. Your attention and dedication to us was always evident and generous. I know there were times that the job market was tight and you were offered positions out of the area that you promptly turned down because it would take you away from us. That means a lot to me and helps me to see how important we are to you.
I guess it’s impossible to truly understand the effect you’ve had on my life. There’s no gauge or tool to measure love, but I know that you love me and I hope you know I love you. I get sad when I think that we’ll probably never live together or spend time together like we once did. However, the memories that I have remind me of a sweet childhood and youth. I am grateful for that. Thank you for being a great dad. You are a stellar person and father and I hope that makes you as happy as it makes me.
I wrote this on July 4, 2002
A letter I wrote to my sister Beth on July 4, 2002
Things here are good. Our life continues to be crazy and hectic. As you may or may not know I started a summer internship at a company called Nutraceutical in May after coming home from Ireland. Well, while I was in Ireland I met the VP of a Sales and Marketing company that is Ogden and we connected after coming home and, well she offered me a full-time job. So, I accepted it, quit my internship and have been working there for a week now. It’s called MarketStar and it is a really nice company. They are growing, doing some good things, and I have a huge office. The downside is the commute—it’s 75 miles one way and takes me about 1 ½ hours to get there. That part is not the best, but we are probably moving in August so it won’t be so bad then.
Melanie and Abby have been in Boston for about a week now and are coming home Saturday. It has been so lonely here and I have missed them a ton. Melanie says Abby is getting huge—that makes me so sad. Honestly, you will find her so cute. She is an absolute dolly. Oh, and Melanie says she is teething. I can’t believe it—it seems like she was just born. It makes me sad to think of her growing up—I just want her to stay small forever. And teeth? Gosh, next thing I know I’ll be sending her off to college. Anyway, she is so excited to meet you when you get home.
HAPPY 4th of JULY!! Today has been quiet for me—with Mel and Abby not around it has been kind of sleepy for me. I slept in which was nice (it was the first time in 5 months I think) and went to see a movie called Minority Report with Tom Cruise. It was OK, not the best. The story was kind of confusing but was definitely cool looking. I’m skipping the fireworks tonight (they are about to start) for a quiet night at home.
Hey, if you see a cute baby dress that is TOTALLY Thai, can you pick it up for the cutey? Silk would be great if possible, but more than anything we would love anything that is pure THAI. If such a thing does not exist, don’t fret, but if it does that would be sweet.
Let’s see—what else is going on? Nate is excited about his wedding and so are we. I wish I could’ve met Lindsey before but Mom and Mary seem to really like her. It’ll be fun having someone new in the family and August will prove to be an important time foe this family.
Speaking of August, we sure wish you could be here for Abby’s sealing and blessing. We are so excited to be able to bless and seal Abby to us in August. Honestly, it is a dream come true to be able to have her in our family. She has brought such joy into our home and we love her so much. Honestly, I sometimes just stare at her picture and feel so blessed to have her as my daughter. She is just so perfect. I’m sure you will love her.
Anyway, that’s about it from our side. We hope you have a good last month or so and that you feel good about what you have done. I know the Thai people have loved having you there and will miss you so much.
Things here are good. Our life continues to be crazy and hectic. As you may or may not know I started a summer internship at a company called Nutraceutical in May after coming home from Ireland. Well, while I was in Ireland I met the VP of a Sales and Marketing company that is Ogden and we connected after coming home and, well she offered me a full-time job. So, I accepted it, quit my internship and have been working there for a week now. It’s called MarketStar and it is a really nice company. They are growing, doing some good things, and I have a huge office. The downside is the commute—it’s 75 miles one way and takes me about 1 ½ hours to get there. That part is not the best, but we are probably moving in August so it won’t be so bad then.
Melanie and Abby have been in Boston for about a week now and are coming home Saturday. It has been so lonely here and I have missed them a ton. Melanie says Abby is getting huge—that makes me so sad. Honestly, you will find her so cute. She is an absolute dolly. Oh, and Melanie says she is teething. I can’t believe it—it seems like she was just born. It makes me sad to think of her growing up—I just want her to stay small forever. And teeth? Gosh, next thing I know I’ll be sending her off to college. Anyway, she is so excited to meet you when you get home.
HAPPY 4th of JULY!! Today has been quiet for me—with Mel and Abby not around it has been kind of sleepy for me. I slept in which was nice (it was the first time in 5 months I think) and went to see a movie called Minority Report with Tom Cruise. It was OK, not the best. The story was kind of confusing but was definitely cool looking. I’m skipping the fireworks tonight (they are about to start) for a quiet night at home.
Hey, if you see a cute baby dress that is TOTALLY Thai, can you pick it up for the cutey? Silk would be great if possible, but more than anything we would love anything that is pure THAI. If such a thing does not exist, don’t fret, but if it does that would be sweet.
Let’s see—what else is going on? Nate is excited about his wedding and so are we. I wish I could’ve met Lindsey before but Mom and Mary seem to really like her. It’ll be fun having someone new in the family and August will prove to be an important time foe this family.
Speaking of August, we sure wish you could be here for Abby’s sealing and blessing. We are so excited to be able to bless and seal Abby to us in August. Honestly, it is a dream come true to be able to have her in our family. She has brought such joy into our home and we love her so much. Honestly, I sometimes just stare at her picture and feel so blessed to have her as my daughter. She is just so perfect. I’m sure you will love her.
Anyway, that’s about it from our side. We hope you have a good last month or so and that you feel good about what you have done. I know the Thai people have loved having you there and will miss you so much.
I wrote this on Sunday, May 2, 2002
Abstract from a letter to Beth on her mission in Thailand
First, I am out of school now and working at a company in Park City. They produce Nutritional Supplements and I am responsible this summer for preparing two product lines for market launch. Really, all that means is that I need to get things together in a way so these products can go to the retail channels for customers. It is pretty interesting—one is nutritional supplements for pregnant women called “Baby-Me-Now” and the other is a line of Herbal Teas called Miztique. The company itself is ok—I have yet to be bummed or dazzled by them but it is nice to at least have a job. The only bad thing is the commute, namely because it is an hour one way. Still, it is through the canyon so it is at least beautiful.
I got back 2 weeks ago from Dublin, Ireland. It was a breathtaking adventure. It was sponsored and paid for by the school which made it all the better. Our main purpose was to meet with international businesses and discuss what they do, but really the students were there for one reason—to party. And party we did. The non-LDS kids got drunk a lot, but I toured the city and the country with my friends and had a really cool experience. It was interesting to see the land that at least part of our family came from—it was absolutely stunning and green as can be.
We are having a good summer so far and have enjoyed the changing of the seasons. It’ll be an exciting time, no doubt, because we are getting sealed on the 11th, you are getting back the following Friday and Nate is getting married the next day. Can you imagine that? It will be utterly crazy and fun. We are trying to get the whole family to go which would be a blast.
I am glad to be out of school—it is such a drag. There is just so much to do when you’re in school which really wears me down. My grades were OK this last semester, but at least I passed everything and did OK.
Abby continues to brighten our days and throw us for loops. She is so unpredictable and is really developing a sweet personality. Don’t get me wrong, she has always had a sweet spirit, but she is becoming so aware and responsive each and every day and is able to respond with her little voice when we chat. Even tonight, we took a walk and were pushing her little stroller around and she is just talking and making the cutest noises, totally content and happy with the world. Her favorite song so far is “Zippity-Do-Dah” which we sing to her with gusto all the time. If she’s crying when we’re changing her diaper, for instance, one of us will do the dirty work while the other tries to distract Abby with literally a song and dance. It is so fun, and she laughs her little head off.
On Friday, Abby went to the doctor and got her 2nd round of shots. She is doing well even though she SCREAMED so loud when they gave her the shots. It is so hard to watch because there is no way to explain to her that it is for her own good. Anyway, we think she maybe felt a little drained over the weekend, but is doing just fine now. Oh, and she weighed 10 lbs, 13 ozs and was 24 inches long. She is actually under weight (in the bottom 5 % range) but is really healthy and strong otherwise. She does like to spit up after eating (the Dr. gave her a little Zantac to help keep it down) which maybe would explain why she is under weight a little, but really I think it is more a function of her being petite more than anything.
First, I am out of school now and working at a company in Park City. They produce Nutritional Supplements and I am responsible this summer for preparing two product lines for market launch. Really, all that means is that I need to get things together in a way so these products can go to the retail channels for customers. It is pretty interesting—one is nutritional supplements for pregnant women called “Baby-Me-Now” and the other is a line of Herbal Teas called Miztique. The company itself is ok—I have yet to be bummed or dazzled by them but it is nice to at least have a job. The only bad thing is the commute, namely because it is an hour one way. Still, it is through the canyon so it is at least beautiful.
I got back 2 weeks ago from Dublin, Ireland. It was a breathtaking adventure. It was sponsored and paid for by the school which made it all the better. Our main purpose was to meet with international businesses and discuss what they do, but really the students were there for one reason—to party. And party we did. The non-LDS kids got drunk a lot, but I toured the city and the country with my friends and had a really cool experience. It was interesting to see the land that at least part of our family came from—it was absolutely stunning and green as can be.
We are having a good summer so far and have enjoyed the changing of the seasons. It’ll be an exciting time, no doubt, because we are getting sealed on the 11th, you are getting back the following Friday and Nate is getting married the next day. Can you imagine that? It will be utterly crazy and fun. We are trying to get the whole family to go which would be a blast.
I am glad to be out of school—it is such a drag. There is just so much to do when you’re in school which really wears me down. My grades were OK this last semester, but at least I passed everything and did OK.
Abby continues to brighten our days and throw us for loops. She is so unpredictable and is really developing a sweet personality. Don’t get me wrong, she has always had a sweet spirit, but she is becoming so aware and responsive each and every day and is able to respond with her little voice when we chat. Even tonight, we took a walk and were pushing her little stroller around and she is just talking and making the cutest noises, totally content and happy with the world. Her favorite song so far is “Zippity-Do-Dah” which we sing to her with gusto all the time. If she’s crying when we’re changing her diaper, for instance, one of us will do the dirty work while the other tries to distract Abby with literally a song and dance. It is so fun, and she laughs her little head off.
On Friday, Abby went to the doctor and got her 2nd round of shots. She is doing well even though she SCREAMED so loud when they gave her the shots. It is so hard to watch because there is no way to explain to her that it is for her own good. Anyway, we think she maybe felt a little drained over the weekend, but is doing just fine now. Oh, and she weighed 10 lbs, 13 ozs and was 24 inches long. She is actually under weight (in the bottom 5 % range) but is really healthy and strong otherwise. She does like to spit up after eating (the Dr. gave her a little Zantac to help keep it down) which maybe would explain why she is under weight a little, but really I think it is more a function of her being petite more than anything.
I wrote this on Sunday, May 11, 1997
Sunday May 11, 1997
Today I begin anew my goal of writing a journal for me and my posterity. I will not attempt to go back in time to relive past events, though this may occur as I freely write this journal. Instead I will dwell on the present. Of particular importance to me is to produce a journal that will give additional insight to myself, and also to provide information to others about who I am. This is not because I am particularly important. Instead, it is because I feel there is a definite benefit in having this information when determining what someone is like. I want you to know me, and I want to better understand myself.
I hope this is a successful endeavor.
Today is Mothers day 1997. Maija has been visiting us this week and today we celebrated her birthday and Mothers day with her. We had an interesting adventure that is worth noting. We went up into the mountains, through Provo canyon to a spot called Squaw point. Just as we arrived at the top there was this man para-gliding. He through his chute out to catch the wind and took off right in front of our eyes. Unfortunately, the wind pushed him back and slammed him into this solid rock wall. I swear I thought he was dead, or at least seriously paralyzed. It was such a tragedy. Luckily he was fine, and was talking and doing well. It was exciting and scary, and was a definite adventure.
In conclusion, as it is Mothers day I want to say something about my mother. Never in the history of the world has there been a better mother. Mom has always been so sweet and caring and has always sacrificed herself for the good and benefit of us children. I think what touches me most is that through all of the sacrifices, trials, and weaknesses she has had to face she has always kept us close. She has never pushed us away but has gathered us in under her wing to teach and uplift. Any weakness that she has had, any failure she may feel is hers, any opportunity she has given up, she has done so for her children. Gracious, kind, sacrificing, humble, faithful, honest, trustworthy—these are virtues that honestly and accurately describe my angel mother.
Today I begin anew my goal of writing a journal for me and my posterity. I will not attempt to go back in time to relive past events, though this may occur as I freely write this journal. Instead I will dwell on the present. Of particular importance to me is to produce a journal that will give additional insight to myself, and also to provide information to others about who I am. This is not because I am particularly important. Instead, it is because I feel there is a definite benefit in having this information when determining what someone is like. I want you to know me, and I want to better understand myself.
I hope this is a successful endeavor.
Today is Mothers day 1997. Maija has been visiting us this week and today we celebrated her birthday and Mothers day with her. We had an interesting adventure that is worth noting. We went up into the mountains, through Provo canyon to a spot called Squaw point. Just as we arrived at the top there was this man para-gliding. He through his chute out to catch the wind and took off right in front of our eyes. Unfortunately, the wind pushed him back and slammed him into this solid rock wall. I swear I thought he was dead, or at least seriously paralyzed. It was such a tragedy. Luckily he was fine, and was talking and doing well. It was exciting and scary, and was a definite adventure.
In conclusion, as it is Mothers day I want to say something about my mother. Never in the history of the world has there been a better mother. Mom has always been so sweet and caring and has always sacrificed herself for the good and benefit of us children. I think what touches me most is that through all of the sacrifices, trials, and weaknesses she has had to face she has always kept us close. She has never pushed us away but has gathered us in under her wing to teach and uplift. Any weakness that she has had, any failure she may feel is hers, any opportunity she has given up, she has done so for her children. Gracious, kind, sacrificing, humble, faithful, honest, trustworthy—these are virtues that honestly and accurately describe my angel mother.
A Hoader's Christmas
‘Twas the night before Christmas,
And all through the house.
Lay a hot dirty mess,
Full of droppings of mouse.
The children were nestled,
In their beds oh-so-bare.
As they dreamt of the hoard,
And its mount of despair.
In the dark he appeared,
That big saint, Santa Claus.
He looked at the home,
Held his nose with a pause.
He peered down the chimney,
Down its sooty, black hole.
And knew in his heart,
This way he shant go.
The back door was jammed,
It simply was stuck.
Stacked with litter and trash,
Like an old garbage truck.
The windows were frosty,
Piles of junk strewn around.
Cobwebs in corners,
Food scraps on ground.
All around him was trash,
Up to his head, then some more.
He stepped on the rubbish,
That doubled as floor.
Something moved under foot,
Mice running fast on the go.
He sprinted outside,
And yacked in the snow.
He wiped the mess off,
And composed him anew.
But heaved one more time,
This time it was stew.
Back in the house,
He went to the tree.
To leave lots of presents,
For this hoarding family.
He cleared off a space,
Under that scant little tree.
And laid the gifts down,
For all them to see.
The deed was now done
The toys delivered with care.
He picked up the cookie,
And milk they left there.
The cookie he lifted,
To his mouth he did press.
Not realizing that he,
Was standing in dog mess.
“That’s the last straw”
Said the humble, old man.
And he wiped off his boots,
With some rusty old can.
With a twinkle in eye,
He said with a nod:
“I can do nothing for them,
Have mercy, dear God.”
He jumped in his sleigh,
He shot off to the border.
And yelled as he left,
“Merry Christmas dear hoarders”
And all through the house.
Lay a hot dirty mess,
Full of droppings of mouse.
The children were nestled,
In their beds oh-so-bare.
As they dreamt of the hoard,
And its mount of despair.
In the dark he appeared,
That big saint, Santa Claus.
He looked at the home,
Held his nose with a pause.
He peered down the chimney,
Down its sooty, black hole.
And knew in his heart,
This way he shant go.
The back door was jammed,
It simply was stuck.
Stacked with litter and trash,
Like an old garbage truck.
The windows were frosty,
Piles of junk strewn around.
Cobwebs in corners,
Food scraps on ground.
All around him was trash,
Up to his head, then some more.
He stepped on the rubbish,
That doubled as floor.
Something moved under foot,
Mice running fast on the go.
He sprinted outside,
And yacked in the snow.
He wiped the mess off,
And composed him anew.
But heaved one more time,
This time it was stew.
Back in the house,
He went to the tree.
To leave lots of presents,
For this hoarding family.
He cleared off a space,
Under that scant little tree.
And laid the gifts down,
For all them to see.
The deed was now done
The toys delivered with care.
He picked up the cookie,
And milk they left there.
The cookie he lifted,
To his mouth he did press.
Not realizing that he,
Was standing in dog mess.
“That’s the last straw”
Said the humble, old man.
And he wiped off his boots,
With some rusty old can.
With a twinkle in eye,
He said with a nod:
“I can do nothing for them,
Have mercy, dear God.”
He jumped in his sleigh,
He shot off to the border.
And yelled as he left,
“Merry Christmas dear hoarders”
Words of Life
I heard this poem first in 9th grade. My teacher read it and I was touched deeply by the words.
The Lake Isle Of Innisfree
I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made:
Nine bean-rows will I have there, a hive for the honeybee,
And live alone in the bee-loud glade.
And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow,
Dropping from the veils of the mourning to where the cricket sings;
There midnight's all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow,
And evening full of the linnet's wings.
I will arise and go now, for always night and day
I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;
While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey,
I hear it in the deep heart's core.
William Butler Yeats
The Lake Isle Of Innisfree
I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made:
Nine bean-rows will I have there, a hive for the honeybee,
And live alone in the bee-loud glade.
And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow,
Dropping from the veils of the mourning to where the cricket sings;
There midnight's all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow,
And evening full of the linnet's wings.
I will arise and go now, for always night and day
I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;
While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey,
I hear it in the deep heart's core.
William Butler Yeats
I wrote this on June 29, 1997
This is turning out to be a great summer. First of all I have two great jobs, one at Restaurant Roy, the other at Seven Peaks. Both jobs have been really good about paying well and that is a relief to me.
This week I received word that I was awarded a scholarship for $1200.00 this academic year. It makes me so glad namely because I struggled for so long as a poor student and am now am seeing the rewards of being a good student. I love school and miss it very much this summer. Actually I am enrolled in one class this semester so I’m not missing it too much. This summer really is nice.
This week we went to Disney World and had such a blast. I will not endeavor to discuss it here but instead will do so in a lengthier journal Melanie and I will write.
Well, this week I don’t feel particularly moved to write so I will stop now. Ciao!
This week I received word that I was awarded a scholarship for $1200.00 this academic year. It makes me so glad namely because I struggled for so long as a poor student and am now am seeing the rewards of being a good student. I love school and miss it very much this summer. Actually I am enrolled in one class this semester so I’m not missing it too much. This summer really is nice.
This week we went to Disney World and had such a blast. I will not endeavor to discuss it here but instead will do so in a lengthier journal Melanie and I will write.
Well, this week I don’t feel particularly moved to write so I will stop now. Ciao!
Love Letters to My Girls
Dearest Melanie,
Being away from you is so hard on me. You are everything to me. My advocate. My cheerleader. My counselor. My lover. My friend. You fill me with such hope and happiness. As long as we are together, I believe we can do great things.
Holding you this weekend gave me renewed energy and vive to keep moving forward. It’s tremendously hard and depressing being away from you, so that time together is so essential to me. It fills me, satisfies me, and reminds me why I’m doing this in the first place.
You have blessed me in so many ways. I know that I’m a better man because of you, and I hope that I can make you as happy as you make me.
I worry that sometimes I’m slow to show you love. That I’m more doting on the girlies. That I neglect you for them. If so, I’m sorry. I try to be a good husband and father, but I think it’s sometimes hard to be both at once. Hopefully you know how I feel; that you believe that I love you. That you know that I would do anything for you. That you’re continually in my prayers, and that you have fulfilled me completely and utterly.
I can’t wait to hold you again, to feel your loving arms and the comfort they bring. Until then, know that I love you and continually pray for you my sweet wife.
Dearest Abby,
My little Abby, I miss you so much! You’re the apple of my eye. You are so special, so unique, and so lovely in every way. I loved dancing with you tonight, and can’t help but think that someday I will be dancing with you at your wedding. That will be a bittersweet moment for me.
I can only find comfort in the fact that today you are mine, and that we can dance together and share our happiness and love together.
Abby, when you were a baby I blessed you to always be kind and loving to others. You’ve lived up to that blessing in every way possible. I hope you continue to always follow God and Jesus, and do what’s right at all times. Doing what is right will make it possible for us to all be together forever. Nothing matters more to me than that.
As much as it makes me sad to see you cry when I leave, it makes me happy to know that you love me that much. I have to tell you, I cry when I leave you too. I try to be tough and not show it, but I know exactly how you feel and can’t wait to see you again.
Give Mom a huge hug for me. Give Maddie a big kiss. And squeeze yourself and pretend that’s me holding you tight.
Dearest Madeline,
I want you to know that I love you so much. You are such a little princess, and I’m so lucky to be your Dad (and I guess that makes me a King too).
Spending time with you this weekend made me feel so happy. You are a joy to be around, and have such a sparkly personality. Everything you say or do is funny, and your personality is so happy and sweet. We’re all lucky to spend time with you each day.
I’m so proud of you for being so strong about stopping to suck your thumb. I know you love it so much, and that it gives you great comfort. I know it’s hard, which is why I’m so proud of you. You’re doing it! When I see you do great things like that, it makes me feel like I can do great things too.
You need to know that you’re prettier than any princess I’ve ever seen, and that Heavenly Father loves you so much – more than Mom, Abby, and Me. It’s hard to believe that someone could love you that much, but it’s true. No one loves you more on Earth than your family, and we’re one lucky family.
I love you my little Budsie. I love you so much.
Being away from you is so hard on me. You are everything to me. My advocate. My cheerleader. My counselor. My lover. My friend. You fill me with such hope and happiness. As long as we are together, I believe we can do great things.
Holding you this weekend gave me renewed energy and vive to keep moving forward. It’s tremendously hard and depressing being away from you, so that time together is so essential to me. It fills me, satisfies me, and reminds me why I’m doing this in the first place.
You have blessed me in so many ways. I know that I’m a better man because of you, and I hope that I can make you as happy as you make me.
I worry that sometimes I’m slow to show you love. That I’m more doting on the girlies. That I neglect you for them. If so, I’m sorry. I try to be a good husband and father, but I think it’s sometimes hard to be both at once. Hopefully you know how I feel; that you believe that I love you. That you know that I would do anything for you. That you’re continually in my prayers, and that you have fulfilled me completely and utterly.
I can’t wait to hold you again, to feel your loving arms and the comfort they bring. Until then, know that I love you and continually pray for you my sweet wife.
Dearest Abby,
My little Abby, I miss you so much! You’re the apple of my eye. You are so special, so unique, and so lovely in every way. I loved dancing with you tonight, and can’t help but think that someday I will be dancing with you at your wedding. That will be a bittersweet moment for me.
I can only find comfort in the fact that today you are mine, and that we can dance together and share our happiness and love together.
Abby, when you were a baby I blessed you to always be kind and loving to others. You’ve lived up to that blessing in every way possible. I hope you continue to always follow God and Jesus, and do what’s right at all times. Doing what is right will make it possible for us to all be together forever. Nothing matters more to me than that.
As much as it makes me sad to see you cry when I leave, it makes me happy to know that you love me that much. I have to tell you, I cry when I leave you too. I try to be tough and not show it, but I know exactly how you feel and can’t wait to see you again.
Give Mom a huge hug for me. Give Maddie a big kiss. And squeeze yourself and pretend that’s me holding you tight.
Dearest Madeline,
I want you to know that I love you so much. You are such a little princess, and I’m so lucky to be your Dad (and I guess that makes me a King too).
Spending time with you this weekend made me feel so happy. You are a joy to be around, and have such a sparkly personality. Everything you say or do is funny, and your personality is so happy and sweet. We’re all lucky to spend time with you each day.
I’m so proud of you for being so strong about stopping to suck your thumb. I know you love it so much, and that it gives you great comfort. I know it’s hard, which is why I’m so proud of you. You’re doing it! When I see you do great things like that, it makes me feel like I can do great things too.
You need to know that you’re prettier than any princess I’ve ever seen, and that Heavenly Father loves you so much – more than Mom, Abby, and Me. It’s hard to believe that someone could love you that much, but it’s true. No one loves you more on Earth than your family, and we’re one lucky family.
I love you my little Budsie. I love you so much.
My Dad
It’s funny what stands out to me these days. I know that there are hundreds, thousands of memories that I could share about you Dad. But these days I’m more touched by the memories that defined what it means to be a great Dad.
Some of these are like a colorful, pleasant collage. Here’s what I see.
You’re there in the football stadium bleachers or at the band concert, cheering me on. Next, you’re behind me as we hike on some long scout hike, probably with biting flies, but you don’t seem to mind. I also see you camping at the father’s and son’s campout, sitting with me around the fire. In another one you’re next to me helping me build a diorama of Hailey’s comet for the science fair – the comet looks funny, but it doesn’t matter - we did it together. In another picture you’re picking us up, honking the horn in your usual way to announce your arrival, taking us to your house for visits or to Dairy Queen for ice cream. One of my favorites is going to pick apples, and of course driving us around the orchard and letting us take the wheel. What fun!
But there are other images too. Harder. Less pleasant. But still important.
You’re giving mom the child support checks, week after week, year after year - they represent a lot of sacrifice, and none of the kids really understand how much. Another moment in time...you’re trying to decide how to stay in Ypsilanti so you can be near us, but the jobs in that area stink. No matter, you’re going to make it work - you need to be near your kids. In another we’re at Meijers. It’s back to school time, and you’re trying to figure out how to buy shoes for a bunch of kids on a tight budget. It means saying “no” to the fancy new shoes, and yes to the generic ones. You have to make it work, and you do.
A lot of people think being a Dad is easy, but it is actually very complicated. Like you, I want to provide the best that I can for my family. So we do mundane jobs, we make sacrifices, we put away our dreams, and we do it with a smile.
The older I get, the more I realize that the role of a Dad is to teach, train, guide, and lead. You cannot force your kids to be something that isn’t them. You can only recognize their potential and help them be the best they can be. You did that for me. You encouraged me to take a different path, and you supported me along the way. And I think it’s worked out for me. I’m happy and doing well for myself, in my own way. Without a parent who is willing to say “it’s ok to take your own path”, I don’t know that I would have done it. But you said it was ok, and you held my hand along the way.
I love you Dad with all of my heart. Thank you for the good you gave me, and for sheltering me through the storms of life. Thank you for being such a wise, thoughtful, talented Dad.
Some of these are like a colorful, pleasant collage. Here’s what I see.
You’re there in the football stadium bleachers or at the band concert, cheering me on. Next, you’re behind me as we hike on some long scout hike, probably with biting flies, but you don’t seem to mind. I also see you camping at the father’s and son’s campout, sitting with me around the fire. In another one you’re next to me helping me build a diorama of Hailey’s comet for the science fair – the comet looks funny, but it doesn’t matter - we did it together. In another picture you’re picking us up, honking the horn in your usual way to announce your arrival, taking us to your house for visits or to Dairy Queen for ice cream. One of my favorites is going to pick apples, and of course driving us around the orchard and letting us take the wheel. What fun!
But there are other images too. Harder. Less pleasant. But still important.
You’re giving mom the child support checks, week after week, year after year - they represent a lot of sacrifice, and none of the kids really understand how much. Another moment in time...you’re trying to decide how to stay in Ypsilanti so you can be near us, but the jobs in that area stink. No matter, you’re going to make it work - you need to be near your kids. In another we’re at Meijers. It’s back to school time, and you’re trying to figure out how to buy shoes for a bunch of kids on a tight budget. It means saying “no” to the fancy new shoes, and yes to the generic ones. You have to make it work, and you do.
A lot of people think being a Dad is easy, but it is actually very complicated. Like you, I want to provide the best that I can for my family. So we do mundane jobs, we make sacrifices, we put away our dreams, and we do it with a smile.
The older I get, the more I realize that the role of a Dad is to teach, train, guide, and lead. You cannot force your kids to be something that isn’t them. You can only recognize their potential and help them be the best they can be. You did that for me. You encouraged me to take a different path, and you supported me along the way. And I think it’s worked out for me. I’m happy and doing well for myself, in my own way. Without a parent who is willing to say “it’s ok to take your own path”, I don’t know that I would have done it. But you said it was ok, and you held my hand along the way.
I love you Dad with all of my heart. Thank you for the good you gave me, and for sheltering me through the storms of life. Thank you for being such a wise, thoughtful, talented Dad.
The Kennedy Christmas Poem
Twas the night before Christmas
And one little mouse
Was gathering his friends
To run through our house.
As they ate at our food and watched
And ran at our feet
I took in my hands
An old baseball Cleat
As I watched them move to
I watched them move fro
With swat on my hands
I let that shoe go.
Smack went the shoe
Against the mouse head
I laughed to myself
And hoped it was dead.
I looked at the corpse
Dead on my floor
And sat in my chair
Waiting for more.
Twelve years ago Abby would...
Things I wrote down in March 2004 about my dear Abby!
Dear Sweetheart,
I thought I would take a minute to express how much I love you. I cannot believe you are a little over 2. If you could see yourslef, you would be amazed, as Mom and I are, at the level of intelligence and the depth of your spirit. You are doing things that I did not expect for a long time…it is a great blessing to be a witness to your life.
Each morning when Mom or I come into your room you say “good dreams.” I think that is because we always ask you if you had good dreams.
You say the funniest things:
Breakfast of cereal; help mommy get your makeup on; alwasys wants to help with the chores (including the silverware)
Read books (parts, pirates, )
Abby pooped in the potty for the first time – twice in the same day – on Wednesday May 12.
Abbs told me a cute story the other day…Once upon a time there was a girl named abby. She played games. The end. We have a lot of fun telling stories together.
Yesterday, May 16, Abby seemed really quiet. I kept asking her what was wrong, but she wouldn’t say. Finally, she said really quietly to me, “I’m angry”. It was really cute.
Abby got her first water wings in Las Vegas on May 11, 2004. She loved to wear them and play, and is a real water lover.
Dear Sweetheart,
I thought I would take a minute to express how much I love you. I cannot believe you are a little over 2. If you could see yourslef, you would be amazed, as Mom and I are, at the level of intelligence and the depth of your spirit. You are doing things that I did not expect for a long time…it is a great blessing to be a witness to your life.
Each morning when Mom or I come into your room you say “good dreams.” I think that is because we always ask you if you had good dreams.
You say the funniest things:
- Watch raccoons
- Mommy I love you…
- Come on Daddy…
- Sings “where oh where is shadow”, ring-around-the-rosie, wheels on the bus
- Prayers, “Heavenly Father, thank you for this day, love mommy, love daddy, thank you for Jesus, name of Jesus, Amen.”
- Maybe tomorrow
- Please (making the sign language)
- Elephant behind the TV
- Dolly wants Disney
- You are such a good talker. So smart.
- Dinosaur shakes
- Barney & ernie
- Dolly
- Haircuts
- Baths
- Play with play doh and draw
- Watching TV
- Somersaults
- Hide and seek
- “Do you have any crackers?” I don’t have any crackers!
- Dora the Explorer
Breakfast of cereal; help mommy get your makeup on; alwasys wants to help with the chores (including the silverware)
Read books (parts, pirates, )
Abby pooped in the potty for the first time – twice in the same day – on Wednesday May 12.
Abbs told me a cute story the other day…Once upon a time there was a girl named abby. She played games. The end. We have a lot of fun telling stories together.
Yesterday, May 16, Abby seemed really quiet. I kept asking her what was wrong, but she wouldn’t say. Finally, she said really quietly to me, “I’m angry”. It was really cute.
Abby got her first water wings in Las Vegas on May 11, 2004. She loved to wear them and play, and is a real water lover.
Daisy
A yawn and a sleep
and a lay lay lay
That's how Daisy and I
Spend our day
A lick and a leap
And a run run run
That's how Daisy and I
Play in the sun
A yip and a bark
And a bite bite bite
That's how Daisy and I
Spend the night
and a lay lay lay
That's how Daisy and I
Spend our day
A lick and a leap
And a run run run
That's how Daisy and I
Play in the sun
A yip and a bark
And a bite bite bite
That's how Daisy and I
Spend the night
Sunday, August 7, 2011
A letter to Maddie
Dearest Maddie,
Hi. At certain times it’s good just to drop you a little note. So much has happened lately for you, and it would be a shame to let it pass by without a note or two from your Dad.
You are quite a wonderful girl, Maddie. You are bright and cheery. I’m amazed at how quickly you’ve gone from toddler to girl. It seems like just yesterday you were learning to walk and talk. Now, at 5 you are just doing it all. I think Mom and I are most amazed at your drive and determination. It seems like overnight you’ve learned that you can do anything with enough time and practice.
Like riding your bike. One night we were outside and you saw Campbell riding her bike. A switch went off, and immediately you wanted to try it. So we pumped up Abby’s bike tires and got you practicing. You just wanted to keep on doing it. Literally in a matter of minutes you were zipping up and down the street. You couldn’t get enough of your little purple bike. It was so awesome to witness you take it on head first.
Same with reading. When I first started teaching you to read, probably a year ago, you were just a crazy little kid. It was so hard focusing you on the words. It must have been boring to you. But now, a year later you are a little reading wiz. Last night we sat up in the flower chair in our bedroom and you zipped through 15 lessons in less than an hour. You didn’t even need me there; you were just reading and practicing your sounds. But I was glad I was there - I loved holding you and watching you grow right before my eyes
The monkey bars were the same thing. You wanted to do monkey bars, but couldn’t for the longest time. Remember how frustrating it was for you? Then one day – breakthrough! You could do them, no problem. What changed? I don’t know. Everything and nothing. But you told yourself you could do it, and with enough work you were able to do it Maddie.
It was the same with learning to ride your scooter and learning to swim. Neither was easy, but once you figured it out you just loved it.
As your Dad, it’s not so much about the actual activity; it’s about the qualities that make it happen: hard work, confidence, persistence, and practice. Even last night as we were at a badminton tournament for my work, you wanted to learn to hit the birdie. It’s not easy. It requires timing and coordination – something kids don’t always have a lot of. But you stood there with your little racket and swung and swung and swung at that little birdie. Even one of the other Dads said “she is so determined”.
Maddie, I want you to know that I am so grateful you’re my daughter. When I think of the waiting for you to come, and the realization that you might not be here had a miracle not happened scares me. Our lives would have been so different. But you are here, and you are part of our family. And we’re all better because of it.
You are a special girl. You have so much to offer the world. You have talents and abilities that are unique and awesome. God saved his choicest daughters to come to the Earth in these last days, and you and Abby are perfect examples of that.
Please know that I love you with all of my heart. You are so beautiful, smart, talented, and thoughtful. I pray that God’s choicest blessings will be with you forever, my dear, sweet daughter.
Love,
Dad
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Vacuum, Vacuum
The other day Mel was driving with the girls and listening to Natalie Merchant. The song "Thank you" came on, and they all were singing. But Mel noticed that they were singing it a little differently.
The usual chorus of:
I want to thank you, thank you...
Became
I want to Vacuum, Vacuum.
Hilarious little moment with the girls.
The usual chorus of:
I want to thank you, thank you...
Became
I want to Vacuum, Vacuum.
Hilarious little moment with the girls.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
The Seven Trials of Love
I decided this weekend that I'm going to create a literal "trial of fire" that I'm going to put possible suitors for my babies through prior to approving any requests for a hand in marriage. (This is in addition to a background and credit check) Yes, I know this is a while off, but there's no time like the present to plan ahead. While this is a placeholder, I'm more than happy to take suggestions for how I can literally test someone on these (I've got a couple of ideas already, but would love yours).
THE SEVEN TRIALS OF LOVE - A PROCLAMATION OF FATHERHOOD
Young men of the world, behold and listen! Any and all who desire to win the heart and mind of my daughters must pass "The Seven Trials of Love" before you are deemed worthy of such an honor and responsibility. You will be tested and measured at the time and place of my choosing on these merits.
Faithfulness – do you love my daughter with all of your heart, and will cling to her and none else all of your days?
Righteousness – do you love God and your fellow men and cling to the truth of the Gospel?
Intelligence – are you wise to the things of the world and the ways of the streets?
Courage – are you willing to defend those you love, even in the face of dangerous threats?
Creativity – are you unique and interesting, or dull and boring?
Prosperity – do you have the drive, ambition, and intellect necessary to earn a suitable living?
Humor – do you make her laugh?
Only the man who has shown himself able to pass these may ask for my daughter’s hands in marriage. Let he who is worthy approach!
THE SEVEN TRIALS OF LOVE - A PROCLAMATION OF FATHERHOOD
Young men of the world, behold and listen! Any and all who desire to win the heart and mind of my daughters must pass "The Seven Trials of Love" before you are deemed worthy of such an honor and responsibility. You will be tested and measured at the time and place of my choosing on these merits.
Faithfulness – do you love my daughter with all of your heart, and will cling to her and none else all of your days?
Righteousness – do you love God and your fellow men and cling to the truth of the Gospel?
Intelligence – are you wise to the things of the world and the ways of the streets?
Courage – are you willing to defend those you love, even in the face of dangerous threats?
Creativity – are you unique and interesting, or dull and boring?
Prosperity – do you have the drive, ambition, and intellect necessary to earn a suitable living?
Humor – do you make her laugh?
Only the man who has shown himself able to pass these may ask for my daughter’s hands in marriage. Let he who is worthy approach!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Spy Girls
This morning Mel and I lay in bed, enoying the opportunity to sleep in. As I began to stir, I could hear the girls laughing and giggling downstairs. Of course they didn't bother us (thanks girls), but of course I was interested to know what they were doing. So when I got downstairs, I was surprised and delighted to see how creative and crafty they had been.They had become...the Spy Girls. Mission: Spy on Mom and Dad. Here's what I saw:
Communicator - tethered high-fi communication device for communicating between spies only. 
Spy camera - micro-camera, used for spying on Mom or Dad when working in the office. See the pic of the girls above...that little white thing hanging on the door...that's the camera. I barely could see it!
Finally, for transportation they built this - Part car, part airplane, part boat - all weapon.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
A conversation
As Maddie and I were walking around the Polynesian resort the other night our conversation went something like this:
"What are your dreams, Maddie?"
"Oh, I have a lot of dreams. I think alot about my dreams, and I really really want them to come true. Sometimes when I think about my dreams I can't sleep, I'm just thinking about them. They are special to me, so special. And I always want to believe in my dreams, always."
She then told me that one of her dreams was that Peter Pan would come.
This is as much as I can remember.
But, I will say this: She was so passionate and deliberate in her voice that it took me by surprise and reminded me that I really have a special little lady here. I was totally taken aback, really. It was one of those short coversations that you wish could last a lifetime.
I'm so fortunate to have such amazing girls :)
"What are your dreams, Maddie?"
"Oh, I have a lot of dreams. I think alot about my dreams, and I really really want them to come true. Sometimes when I think about my dreams I can't sleep, I'm just thinking about them. They are special to me, so special. And I always want to believe in my dreams, always."
She then told me that one of her dreams was that Peter Pan would come.
This is as much as I can remember.
But, I will say this: She was so passionate and deliberate in her voice that it took me by surprise and reminded me that I really have a special little lady here. I was totally taken aback, really. It was one of those short coversations that you wish could last a lifetime.
I'm so fortunate to have such amazing girls :)
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