Day 2: The adventures of Annie's

Flat Eliza.

Today I went to the testing center again.  But, the weather was nicer, and I got to play outside most of the time (always where grandma could see me).  When we got home, we read the newspapers on the hammock.   The big news this week is that the terrorist, Osama Bin Laden, was found and killed. 

This was our view as we sat in the hammock.

Then we went inside to the craft room.  I wanted to take a picture of grandma organizing it, but she said it was too messy to take a picture of.  I just hung out with the Apron Girls while grandma cleaned.

We went to dinner at Chili's because we had a coupon for free Queso and Chips.  While we were waiting for our food I read a few books.  I was hoping there would be a "Flat Stanley" book, but there wasn't.

 Later in the evening, I went to a class with a bunch of ladies and made homemade cards.  I've never done that before.  

I think the cards I made are really cool.

 Annie's grandma said she thinks I fit into the family really well.

I think so, too.

Day 1: The adventures of Annie's

friend, Flat Eliza.

I arrived in Provo, Utah, yesterday by air mail.  I'm hoping I can have a fun week with Annie's grandma and grandpa. 

But, today I had to get up early to go into work with Annie's grandma.  It's too bad she has to work this week, or I could play all day long.

This is what I saw as I got to the school where Annie's grandma is helping with CRT testing.  This mountain is called Mt. Timpanogos  (sometimes grandpa jokingly calls it "Mt. Pick-a-noses" to his grandchildren)

We walked into this building, which is the temporary testing building.

I went right up to the front of the room and watched all the

classes come in and take tests all day.

 I was surprised by how quiet all the high school students were. 

They were not quite as wiggly as the kindergarten class I came from.

After Annie's grandpa came home from teaching school,

I went on some errands with him. 

He's kind of funny.

He put rabbit ears above my head for the picture.

Oops, I better buckle up.

We went to the bank, got gas,

and ate dinner at Cafe Rio (Yum)

 When we got home, I watched a fun show

with grandma about making cupcakes,

 But then grandpa had to watch a ball game, and I got bored.

It's nice and cozy in front of the fire,

but I can't believe it's cold enough to have one.

It's early, but I think I'm ready for bed. 

I have to get up early again in the morning.

I'm kind of homesick for Annie and her class,

but I'm having a good time so far.

I always have the best

intentions of writing notes and letters.  I don't know why it is so hard for me to actually sit down and do it.  I especially want to write to my grandchildren.  But, I get caught up in this thinking that if I send a letter to one, I need to send one to all 9 of the same time.  Then I decide that I will write a note a week and rotate.  That doesn't happen either.   Yet, there is really nothing more worthwhile I could be doing.  I think of and pray for them daily.

Recently I got a note from Hyrum that I treasure. 

For a "Faith In God" goal he was supposed to send a thank-you note.  He said that he appreciates that I am "nice and joyfull."  Thank you, Hyrum, your note means a lot to me.  It makes me want to be a better person, especially on days when I am not being as nice or acting as joyfully as I could be..  

Then today I got this little letter from Annie.  

To help her with a project in kindergarten, I'm supposed to take this "flat person" (which she named Eliza), with me wherever I go for a week.  I'm supposed to take pictures and write down what I do, and then mail it back to her.   (It looks like I've got my blog posts for a week all figured out!)  I'm going to have to be on my best behavior for a week while I have this "flat person" following me around.   

I should have had her with me today when I cashed in $180 worth of coins at the grocery store. On second, thought, I'm glad I didn't have her with me.    I wouldn't have wanted to take a picture.   I was using one of those machines where you pour the coins in and it counts it.  I had  two large jars full of coins that have accumulated over several years, and it took a while because I had so many.  It was so noisy that I was sure everyone one staring at me.  But, I swallowed my pride for the extra cash.  I felt a little bit like I was playing the slot machines and winning the jackpot.

And to all my wonderful grandchildren, who I don't write enough notes or letters to.   I want you to know that I love you each, individually, for who you are, for the special gifts you possess, and because you bring joy to my life.

I've finally gotten a little wiser

(or maybe more lazy) in my old age.  Rather than spend two days coming up with a poster for each of our Relief Society Activities,  I made a somewhat generic magnet board that I can change up with different announcements each month.  At least I don't feel like I am having to "reinvent the wheel"  every month.

Here is basic information,

Here is the poster with specific info for the next two months.

Much, much, easier!

I looked out

my window and what did I see?

Definitely not "Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree."

Sitting here

on the 29th of April,

in our winter pajamas,

bundled in a throw,

in front of the fire.

Where is Spring?

Hey, who's that

good looking guy on the right? 

I do believe it's Gary introducing the "Keys to Success Program" at the high school today.  It's one more thing he can "check off his list" before the school year ends.  Just working up there for the last week, and seeing how many roles he juggles, makes me appreciate him even more.  I have a hard enough time managing my numerous piles around the house.