THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2009!! Can you believe that the holidays are once again here? As I sat down to write our Christmas letter, I quickly looked over my past blogs and I realized that everything has been posted and not much news to add to a letter. Most or our family and friends are regular readers of my blogs, so I thought I would just direct everyone here to catch up on these past few weeks and to allow us to wish you the blessings of this past year. You may have to click back on older post to catch up.

Tom: Manager of Information Technology for Raytheon....he just returned from Boston. As an Eagle Scout, he is a troop leader for the boys. They love their big new home and are now settled in their new Church home.

Shari: Works part time as a Supervisor for American Airlines..... She is well known in Tucson for her involvement with Angel Charity and several other non-profit organizations. She keeps the family organized and is loved by everyone.

Rob (9) and Ted (7) are both on competitive swim teams....they are really excellent swimmers. They are the tallest in their class, and academically in the top of their classes. It is a blessing to watch them grow and be a part of their lives. They have adapted to the move and their new school very well.

Randy: A Director of Alaska Airlines, plus a part time Seattle Police Officer. Golf is his passion and he plays in all kinds of weather.

Dana: Flight Attendant with Alaska Airlines. She is happy that they now fly to Hawaii. Nordstroms loves Dana!! Dana loves her garden and flowers and her dog, Duffy.

Tiffany: (25).... now living with Randy in Seattle for a short time. It is a good move for her and we are happy that she is there. Tiffany previously groomed Show Dogs and she readily found work grooming dogs at PetCo. She is enjoying Dad/Daughter time together.

Wayne and I?? Well, we keep busy trying to keep up with everyone else. Wayne continues to do a little Design work, enjoys our Resort Park and developing his sketching. He basically is in good health. I am gradually recovering from my car accident and am learning to live with a very sore back....it will just be a way of life for me. Definitely could be much worse!! My Parkinson's is under control - thanks to Xango. We are in the process of looking for a couple of new business partners to add to our Xango team. A great opportunity to stay at home, make money and see amazing health benefits. I enjoy swimming in our Park pool, lunches with friends, knitting, reading and helping others with health issues. I am a computer nerd and would be totally lost without this machine. As you can see, we keep Starbucks busy. I just recently served a week of Jury Duty...an eye opener to say the least.

Miz Bailey.....our sweet abused rescued Yorkie is still a work in progress.....she had no human socializing for 4 years and it is so much fun to see her come alive in so many ways. We enjoy her so much and she is so responsive to attention and a lot of love.

We just enjoyed the annual Christmas parade in our Park.....we had lighted fire trucks, decorated golf carts...a big event here with people in the community coming to see. Wayne had our cart fully decorated....Rob and Ted were excited to ride on the back of the cart....Shari driving and I rode a long. Even Miz Bailey rode wearing her Santa Hat.

This was going to be a short temporary move for us....then the accident happened, and now we are firmly planted in this little community. Not sure what the future holds, but we are certainly not worried about it. It is nice not to be boggled down with 'things' and we are free to travel or do whatever God has in store for us.

I am posting some random pictures.....many have already been posted on facebook, but many of you have not seen them.

We have been sadened this year by the loss of several dear friends and major illness of others. We continually uphold these families in prayer.

We love this time of year. Mostly we love hearing from all of you and wishing each of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Blessed New Year. Remember to pause and reflect on the "Reason for the Season".

Mary Ann, Wayne and Miz Bailey

MIZ BAILEY UPDATE

Miz Bailey continues to be a challenge, but we are seeing little changes daily. She is such a sweet little dog and our hearts break just knowing how abused she was.

She is most comfortable staying entirely in her bed or up against the wall hiding her head, but we don't let this happen for long periods of time. She is beginning to be more social....not to strangers, but to me. She likes to sit on my lap and in my office. She loves riding in the car in her booster seat and sitting on the porch with me. Today I took her in the golf cart and she was great...as long as she could snuggle close to me.

At night I had put a small bed on the floor next to our bed, but she wouldn't have a thing to do with it. However, this morning when I woke up she was sound asleep in this little bed. I was so excited!! I had been leaving our bedroom door partially open, hoping she would eventually come in.....and yep, there she was. It is amazing how excited we get with the slightest improvements.

She was so frightened of her leash, so I put it on her and just let her walk around with it trailing behind.....she finally realized that it wasn't going to hurt her and now she is okay with it.....just time and patience. She will now stay by me when I feed her and she loves her food. In the beginning I had to sit her food down and walk away.....not anymore.

Her bath is traumatic....I end up as wet as she does, plus the kitchen gets a bath too. I am taking her to our Vet next week, and I think that is going to be traumatic also. Potty Pad training her will be a BIG challenge....we haven't started that yet, as I think it would be a lost cause. As soon as she has our entire trust, that will happen and then hopefully, the travel bag will follow.

As soon as I know it is 'safe' to let her out of the kitchen, she is beginning to venture into the other rooms and will run back and forth from kitchen to my office. That is really a biggie!! Eye contact for her is very difficult and when in her bed, she will usually face the wall. We are seeing marked improvement in this area.

We shower her with lots of love, which is very easy to do. We love her dearly and just knowing we have made her life much better is worth it all. Starting today, she has wanted to follow me and be with me wherever I am...that is really exciting!

Blessings galore with Miz Bailey, so I remain a Blessed and Happy Arizona Gramma

Randy and Tiffany's Visit

We all enjoyed Randy and Tiffany's visit, but time passed too quickly and there seemed to be so many things happening all at once, plus their time was so short. One of the purposes of the trip was to bring Wayne's car down from Seattle.....so, it was convenient for Randy to stop in Sacramento to pick up Tiffany....it was a great opportunity for some special Father-Daughter time together.

It was fun showing Tiffany around in our Park....putting around in the golf cart. They took my car to the garage for a check up. They came home with toys and treats for Miz Bailey. Soon it was time to head to Sahuarita where Shari had baked and prepared a special dinner for us. This was the first time that Tiff had seen the new house and the boys were soooo excited to give her a tour. Both Rob and Ted think their Uncle Randy is the best ever and they are always so happy to be with him. It was a delightful and fun evening for all of us.

The next day there was more running around and of course, we had to indulge in Sonoran Hot Dogs at BK's. They are famous for their Sonoran style hot dogs and the locals say you are not a true Tucsonan if you have never eaten these hot dogs. They are a delicious true Mexican treat. Tiff and I were also able to visit Shari again before she flew back to Seattle....staying one night with Randy and Dana before flying to Sacramento.

The above swimming pool is where I spend daily time and was the main reason that we moved to this Park. Not many place heat their pools during the winter months, but our Park keeps the pool at 88 degrees all winter - plus they keep the pool in pristine condition...very clean and beautiful. I couldn't find a condo unit that heated during the winter.

Definitely feeling blessed with my family and where we live,
ARIZONA GRAMMA

WOWSIE.......Today I received my new JUNI products from XANGO and tonight I had an incredible time using each product. The SHAMPOO is the best I have ever used......and, because I have had squamous cell cancer over the top of my scalp, I have been especially careful to use non toxic shampoos.....BUT, nothing has compared with what I used this evening!! All of the products contain the precious mangosteen and scented with a light touch of lavender.....gentle enough for the new born baby.....yep, MIZ BAILEY will be using this shampoo too.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING......many of my gift giving has been solved. I ordered the Holiday gift bag for myself, which included:
SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER, BODY WASH, BODY LOTION, AND A LARGE BAR OF SOAP. This comes with a very nice canvas tote bag with large wooden handles, priced at $65.00 + shipping and sales tax. Now, I wish I could afford to make this my gift to everyone (and I will to some).....but, since all items are also sold seperately, I will package two or three items in small bags for some my gifts. These are all items that anyone will be happy to receive.

The body wash was beyond my expectation and I followed my shower with the body lotion. Knowing that these products are from Xango, I knew they would be outstanding in quality.....but, they are far above and beyond what I was expecting.

Words of caution.....There is a tendency to use far more than what is needed.....A DAB WILL DO YA!!

This ARIZONA GRAMMA is more than pleased tonight and I will be more than happy to help you order these amazing products......
Mary Ann
520.440.3211
www.mymangosteen.com/reserve
Distributor #1188780
www.xanthoneeducation.com

OUR LITTLE MISSY HAS A NAME.....

SHE HAS A NAME.....finally after much family discussions, our new little dog has a name....MIZ BAILEY....she will be called BAILEY, we added the Miz because she is such a Diva and all my dog's names have started with an "M". Thank you everyone for all your good suggestions....Gary - Milly was a close second, followed by pumpkin.

Now that she has a proper name, it is fun to use it. I do believe she is more relaxed today, as she hasn't been heading to the corner to hide her head. She knows her bed is her safe haven. We hold and cuddle her, but she soon wants to return to her bed. I had no idea that these dogs could be so abused and it breaks my heart to see the pain in her eyes. Eye contact is very difficult for her.

THESE ARE SOME OF THE COMMON PUPPYMILL SURVIVOR BEHAVIORS:
TERROR AT HUMAN HANDS: The only time most mill dogs are removed from their cages, it's a painful experience. The dogs may be grabbed by the first reachable part of it's body: tail, leg, scruff, ears. This takes lots of patience and non-threatening touches to overcome.

AVERSION TO EYE CONTACT: Many puppymill survivors refuse to make eye contact with humans. This indicates fearful submission which decreases as the dog comes to realize he will not be harmed by you and begins to trust. Talking to your dog in a soft, calm voice helps speed the process. Wayne rocks and sings softly to Bailey....hymns, as that is all he knows.

AFRAID of FOOD; Anytime the cage door is opened on a mill dog, fear is the response, because an evil human is behind it.
This is definitely a problem with Bailey. It is necessary to place her food down and then walk away.

FEAR OF WATER: They are frightened of water hoses. Puppymillers generally don't bother removing the dogs before hosing down their cages.

They spend their entire lives in locked cages, unless rescued......They receive no veterinary care.....They are confined to overcrowded cages with poor quality food and dirty water.....They receive no human contact.....They often die of neglect or disease. Unwanted dogs are destroyed (even puppies just over 12 weeks old).

Miz Bailey is a beautiful little dog and my prayer is she will soon be romping around and playing, as she will know she is loved.

My eyes have been opened to this horrible treatment of animals......my niece, Kim, has been involved with rescue work and I so want to thank her for her involvement. It is so unbelievable that anyone could be so cruel to these adorable dogs.

If anyone is looking for another dog to add to their family, please take a look at a rescue dog.....they need you!! We found Bailey on a Yorkshire Terrier Rescue Website.

Bailey will be a sweet little dog.....she will probably always be a little shy and timid, but she will know how to show and accept a lot of love.

Because of Bailey, I remain a very Blessed Arizona Gramma.

OUR NEW FAMILY MEMBER

We are soooo excited......tomorrow we are adopting our newly rescued Yorkshire Terrier. As least I hope all goes as planned.
We have had two previous Yorkies, plus we had bought a Yorkie for our Granddaughter, Tiffany. All the dogs had been purchased by a well known Breeder for mega bucks. Several months ago, my good friend Paddi adopted a rescue dog and reading about all the dogs that have been rescued and need homes, my heart wouldn't allow me to do anything else.

Since our little Molly died, I didn't think I would be able to get another dog for a long, long time.....but, I realize I still have a lot of love and patience for another member of the family.

This little dog is a purebred, rescued from a puppy mill.....they were half starved and kept in cages crammed with other dogs. She is very timid and will need lots of love. She is very small like our Molly, but she looks like our little Muffin. A good combination of both. She is cut short because she was so matted and dirty. A crate or travel bag will scare her right now, so she will be held and loved until she has our trust and ready to venture out.

We have had to jump through hoops to please the rescue people and we have been told we are approved. Hopefully, we pick her up in Phoenix in the morning.

I'll keep you updated. I'm sure this bundle of joy will more than please this ARIZONA GRAMMA.

October Paradise

This time of year I feel like we live in a little bit of paradise.....we are in awe at the beauty of the Desert, plus the weather is totally beyond enjoyable. I totally understand why people flock to the Desert this time every year.

I am excited that my family will be together in another week. Randy is driving Wayne's car down and hopefully, Tiffany will be able to come with him. It will be a short trip and he has to fly directly back.....but, there will be time for us to all be together and share a few meals.

Wayne has been working a few hours a day delivering flu vaccine to clinics.....this is a temporary job, but he is enjoying it. A man in our Park is Manager of the operation and another neighbor also works at doing this......they asked Wayne to help and he jumped at the chance. He works several hours early mornings and again in the evenings. Hence the reason he could use the extra car down here.

I just finished knitting slippers for Rob and Ted and they are soooo excited. They were afraid I would keep them until Christmas, but they are coming by today to take them home. I'll have to get busy knitting other items for them.

I am doing great and am feeling better than I have for several years.....exception being my back. Pool therapy seems to be helping that. I try to swim a full hour 5 days a week. The boys will be here a half day tomorrow afternoon and again Wednesday morning. We are both looking forward to enjoying them. They have their house decorated for Halloween and we have promised to spend that evening with them. Oh, the fun and joy of having grandchildren. I would love for Tiffany to be that age again.....no, not really, as she is a delightful and pretty young lady.

I will post pictures soon.....until next time, I remain a very Blessed Arizona Gramma.

Autumn is in the air.....

Our early fall is in the air.....my most favorite time of year. This is true wherever we are living as I am continually amazed that God created His beauty all over the Country. October and November is absolutely beautiful in the Desert. Our hot summer is coming to a close....our mornings and evenings are much cooler (no sweaters needed) and entertaining family and friends begin to happen with real vigor. Our outside spaces come alive as patios and porches become additional living spaces.

Instead of 4 normal seasons, the Desert has about 8 mini seasons. During the coming weeks Snowbirds (winter visitors) begin returning to the Desert to enjoy our wonderful weather, but increasing our traffic. Plus flocks of birds migrate to the Desert to shower us with their beauty and beautiful songs. Our citrus is beginning to ripen and will be ready by late Fall. In the meantime, the fruit adds an array of beauty to our trees. I have just had the first ripe lime from my little tree in the front yard. Looking out my office window I can enjoy the ripening of orange, lemon and grapefruit trees. Nothing taste better than tree ripened fruit.

As our weather cools I bring out my knitting and begin projects of fuzzy hats, warm scarfs and slippers for the Grandchildren. Teddy has already ordered 'green slippers'. It is with total joy that I begin these small projects. Holiday thoughts and ideas begin popping into my head and I am looking forward to spending time with special friends. We have a very large pool in our Park, which is heated to 88 degrees all winter.....needless to say, pool time will continue to be a priority.

My heart is full of joy and and over flows with thanksgiving as we begin my 'favorite time of the year'.....it is so easy to remain a very BLESSED ARIZONA GRAMMA.

BUSY FAMILY LIFE

When a family is busy, it is a good indication that all is well and everyone is healthy and happy. What more could I ask for? As a parent, it is a blessing to see positive attitudes in your children. Their glass is always half full and never empty. And then, to see that positive attitude in the Grandchildren is a blessing beyond compare. Robby was remarking the other night that knowing God created him made everything about him just right!! We definitely please God when we love what He created and we choose to live our life with joy and thankfulness.

Wayne is enjoying retirement....he loves his morning walks and visiting with people in the Park every morning, plus he enjoys sitting around the pool visiting with friends as I swim. He would like to work a few hours a day....very part time....and I think that would be good for him. He is a workaholic, so I think he would enjoy just a few hours a day.

Randy and Dana are leaving this Friday for a cruise.....Actually I believe this is to celebrate Dana's birthday. I know they will enjoy their trip, as they have been on many cruises in the past.

Tiffany and Jordan are doing well. We hope their move to Seattle, after the first of the year, becomes a reality. Randy is especially excited about this.

Tom, Shari, Rob and Ted are totally enjoying their new home in Sahuarita....they are constantly going in many directions, but yet they have a very peaceful, safe and loving home.

I continue to recoup from my surgery.....I'm feeling great (except for my back). I enjoy the pool every morning and use pool weights to increase my strength. I'm thankful for the natural healing that Xango gives me.

It is a wonderful life and it is so easy to be..and remain...a Blessed Arizona Gramma

Create your own visitor map!

POLITICS

Politics can be an ugly subject (sometimes). However, as good citizens and having a love for our County, it is also a very important subject. I like to think of myself as being a very conservative Independent....voting for the best person that I feel will serve in the best capacity of whatever office they are running for. I hope that I will always look at all issues and make a complete study of that issue and not be blinded by whoever is popular.

It is so interesting that as I talk to people and ask them about the Health Care bill that the Senate will be voting for, their opinion is based on whatever they are hearing on the news or the fact that they voted for a person, so whatever they say is true.....oh my, that in itself is bad news! I am fortunate enough to have both friends and family that will dissect any bill line by line and actually know what it says and means. I try to do my part in this too. I also listen to both sides of an issue and hopefully use my own abilities to make my decision. Shari's husband, Tom...our Randy.....and good friend, Jim Swartwood, are all good at going line by line with bills and issues. I appreciate opinions from both my Democrat and Republican friends. What I don't like is someone saying "well, I voted for so and so....they must be right. That sounds pretty stupid to me. I voted for George Bush, but did I like everything that he did? Absolutely not! I have a responsibility to be the best that I can be for my Country. I take the time to listen to the liberal press and TV stations and after listening to many lies, I am happy to return to FOX news and Glenn Beck, where, as an Independent, he calls it as it is. He is also very honest.

I challenge you to listen to both sides of the issues and studying line by line before making up your mind. Be smart and responsible about your choices.

Thank You XANGO

I think most of you know how much I appreciate Xango's Mangosteen Juice....but, just in case.....this juice, I feel, is responsible for maintaining my Parkinson's Disease for the past 11 years without medication. Recently just having major surgery...and at 73 years old, I have bounced back like a young chicken....well, almost ha! Often after taking a supplement for a long time it is only natural to think it isn't continuing to do anything for you, or you don't need it anymore. However, we now know that all disease begins with inflammation - even heart attacks. The medical profession is even stating that the level of inflammation in the body is more important than Cholesterol levels. Taking this juice consistently allows the antioxidant to work within the body to attack the inflammation within your body. Wow....how cool is that! It continues to work without you even knowing it.

Xango, as a company, has such a respected name in the industry. Everything they do is superior and that includes research, science, quality control.....the best in the business. I am confident that whatever new products they bring to us, the consumer, will be only the very best.

It is with this excitment that Wayne and I began takiing ELEVIV..... This is a 100% Natural Product * Clinical Studies as well as 5 years of Science * Boost energy levels * Promote vigor (mental & physical energy) * Promotes relaxation * Reduce Stress * Improve mood * Promote restful sleep * Restore mental alertness/acuity. BELIEVE ME....THIS DOES WORK.

It is with this same excitment that we use our outstanding 3SIXTY VITAMIN & MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS This is whole food nutrition at it's best and easy assimilated into our system. Different formula for Men and Women. Please call me for additional information regarding these superior vitamins.

Another product that I would not be without...GLIMPSE SKIN CAREThis is topical skin nutrition at it's best. There are no toxins or chemicals in any product....just pure nutrition for the skin.

COMING THIS FALL: BODY CLEANSER, SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER AND BODY LOTION All products are non-toxic, nourishing and contain the potent phytonutrients of the mangosteen.

I could continue to write a book on these products...instead if you are interested in a product send me a note and I will be more than happy to send you additional information.

My biggest WOW factor in the hospital, was no one believing I was 73 years old.....All guesses came in much, much younger.
I attribute that to a toxin and chemical free body, including my skin care! THANK YOU XANGO from a very Blessed Arizona Gramma

Dreaming of Hawaii

I am sooooo far behind with my blogging and yet there has been so much happening lately. Now sure if I remember it all. Randy and I had a long phone conversation the other night and he remarked that life seems to get busier and busier instead of slower and slower. Right now I am dreaming of a nice Hawaiian vacation.....perhaps this Fall.

He and Dana are preparing for a cruise vacation.....I think the Caribbean. When they both fly all the time a Cruise is a nice diversion. It certainly isn't their first cruise.....they know what to expect and I am sure they will have a super time. Tom, Shari and boys were recently in Seattle and were able to spend a couple of night with them. Rob and Ted think their Uncle Randy is 'super stuff' and they love to invade his "Man's Land", where you are supposed to have special permission to enter. They were able to watch their favorite DVD there. Man's Land is in their 3rd bay garage.....very comfortable with all the bells and whistles and a total delight to Rob and Ted. They think everyone should have a Man's Land.

Randy and Dana are delighted that Tiffany and Jordan are planning to move to Seattle the first of the year. Randy said he is more than ready to have his daughter close by. We hope this becomes a reality.

I recently had abdominal repair surgery.....a surgery that my Cardiologist was insisting that I have done. I'm doing extremely well, considering my bad back and Parkinson's. In another week I will be back in the swimming pool and life will return to normal. Wayne has been my super caregiver....pampering me far more than necessary - but, I love it!

Rob and Ted delight us with their visits and we enjoy our visits with them in Sahaurita. They have a large play/game room that Grandpa must watch movies with them.....mainly Star Wars. They have been looking for their new Church home and I think they are narrowing down their search.

Wayne is leaving this afternoon for Bellingham.....this will be a quick visit to take care of business.

September/October are beautiful months in the Desert.....our temperatures are beginning to cool and the days are delightful.
We do have an awesome Fall season.

God continues to bring us many blessings and I remain a blessed Arizona Gramma.

First Day of School

As I reflect back through the years and remember the first day of school each year for Randy and Shari, it was always traumatic....and emotional.....for me!! I would always take them to school on that first day, but somehow I just couldn't make myself drive away once I returned to the car. I kept thinking that surely there was something they would need or I forgot to give them everything. Finally, I would have no more excuses and I would drive away with a very heavy heart. After the first day, they would usually ride the school bus and I would let the tears flow as the bus pulled away. It would take a good week before I would get my emotions controlled and see the brighter side of this picture.

Does it get better with the Grandchildren.....Noooooo!! I did a lot of praying this year when Rob and Ted started School in Rancho Sahaurita on August 4th. I told myself perhaps it was because they were entering a larger school in a new town, but I knew I had felt this way the beginning of each of their school years. Well, this Gramma had to drive down and be there when Shari picked them up after that first day of school. Besides it was fun and special to be there to share in their day activities.
We then went out for special treats to top off the school day.

Well....they each enjoyed their first day of school and they like their teachers and now I guess I can relax.....until next year!!
I am so thankful for the blessings of being their Arizona Gramma.

True Friends Are Priceless

I have many blessings to be thankful for, but true friends have to top the list. God has blessed me with the finest and best....friends that are always there at exactly the right time when you need them....they always know the right words to say and are quick to say they are sorry. They are people you love to be with..can laugh and giggle together, cry with and make special memories together.

When Shari was growing up, I tried to instill in her the importance of friends....you never take advantage of them and a true friendship is worth the time, effort and work it takes to nurture a relationship. Never smothering, but loyalty and honestly caring.

Sometimes we are deeply disappointed and hurt by those we care about and perhaps we soon learn that they are not true friends. The same is true within our biological extended families....hurtful words can cut deeply and walls are erected that can not be easily demolished. This is so sad, as perhaps those are the ones that care the most. Do you allow words to destroy those that love you? It is also easy to allow jealousy to creep into relationships.....how sad this must be to God.

God has also blessed me with an array of friends.....close friends from all over. I would like to think he chose each of them for exactly the needs that I have in my life, and hopefully I fulfill specific needs that they have in their lives. Regardless, I know that I love them deeply and am here for them.

When our little Molly dog died last week, it was our true friends who reached out and comforted us and allowed their caring hearts to be here. Thank you all so much.....you are the best!!

Arizona Gramma

Photo Credit: Bing images

Good Bye to our sweet Molly dog....

Precious little Molly was a member of our family for the past twelve years and it is with very sad and heavy hearts that we had to say goodbye to her early friday morning.

Molly was the most perfect dog that we would ever hope for. She was a tiny Yorkshire Terrier weighing a bit over 5 lbs, but she emitted a ton of love and joy. She was not a barker, however she would alert me at night if something was near our house. She never ate or begged for people food, but she enjoyed a little toast with butter. She was the most remarkable traveler and was excited to hop in her travel bag to go anywhere I went. Once she was in her bag there was never a peep out of her. She sat right at my feet on an airplane and was just happy to be there. She was completely trained to use her little potty pad.....I could put her pad down in a bathroom stall at the airport and she would immediately use it. She loved to go to Target with me....sit in the child seat and watch the world go by without one bit of noise. She loved the attention she would get and would act like a princess that expected it. The above picture shows Molly in the center of Muffin and to the right Timmy, who was Tiffany's little Yorkie. Now all of our Yorkies have passed away.

Very early this past friday morning, Molly began to have labored breathing and runny eyes. I thought she was having problems with allergies. I kept her right beside me and soon knew I had to get her to the emergency pet hospital. But, before I could reach for the phone she collapsed. I immediately called my neighbor, Jim, who came in seconds. Molly seemed to revive a little, but before we could leave for the hospital she died. Her little heart had just given up.

Wayne flew home immediately and arrived Friday afternoon. Our entire family has been grieving over this little Angel dog. Her DVM sent us a beautiful poem from Pawprints:

I am the wind blowing through your hair
and the warmth you feel in the air,

When that smile creeps on your face,
remember that I am in a good place.
And when you're feeling sad and down,
recall memories of me running around,

You don't need to look low and high,
just search way deep inside,
And know that we'll never be apart,
for I have left my pawprints on your heart.

Molly left more than pawprints in our hearts and she will be remembered with much love and happiness.
It is so sad to say farewell to this precious Angel dog who was my shadow for 12 years.

Thank you Molly for filling our home with many memories and happiness.
Your Arizona Gramma.

Another Birthday

Summers are one busy time for many family birthdays. July 15th was Tom's birthday, but he was in Boston on business. So.....we gathered on Friday the 17th to celebrate when he returned home. Rob and Ted are always elated when he is returning from a business trip that they wanted to plan a mini surprise party for him. Tom loves and prefers pies, so Shari made his favorite Banana Cream and Blueberry Cream pies. She is an excellent pie baker, which made him an extremely happy guy. The boys took their Dad to their local water park.....he couldn't understand why they were so eager to leave at a certain time, as they usually have to be pulled from the water. He definitely was surprised when they returned home to find us there waiting for him. Gleeful noises were made and birthday wishes shouted and yummy pie was devoured.

The following Sunday Tom's father, Rod, treated the entire family to dinner at McGraw's Canatina. Happy Birthday to a very special son-in-law that we dearly love.

With blessing like this.....it is easy to be a very happy
Arizona Gramma

This and That

Where o where does time go? Each day my mind has a long agenda that I hope to fulfill, but at the end of the day I haven't made a dent. Wayne made a remark the other day that he has never grown old before and therefore isn't sure what he is supposed to be feeling. I told him to just keep thinking those young at heart thoughts.

This will be the first time in many years that I will not be visiting up north for a few months. I will miss that time with family and friends, but until my back gets better I know I am more comfortable to stay at home. Hopefully by Fall I will be running around again. We are still planning a Hawaiian vacation this coming winter, so my back had better be back to normal by then. I will soon be beginning a new spinal treatment....I will give updates on this. The Insurance saga goes on and on.

One of the joys of staying at home this summer is enjoying our summer monsoon season. Yes, it is extremely hot, but we are well equipped for the heat....our mornings and evenings are delightful and afternoons are siesta times. You definitely learn to live in the Desert. But monsoons make the hot summers more than enjoyable. The National Geographic published a large report several years ago stating that Tucson is the lightening Capital of the world and I totally believe this.....the storms appear out of nowhere....they are violent with torrents of rain, blowing wind, lightening crashes and the roar of thunder beyond belief......and I love every minute of it. They can be over in a very short period of time and the bright sunshine will be smiling again. Flooding can happen rapidly, as our ground is very hard and bone dry and there is no place for the water to go. At least our rivers and washes finally have water flowing down them.

On the home front.....everyone is doing well. Rob and Ted are enjoying their new home and resort area. Our schools begin session the first week in August and they are excited to begin this new journey. They are looking for a new Church home to have like minded friends. Tom left this morning for a business trip to Boston.....we will be celebrating his birthday later this week. Shari continues to be busy with her fund raising activities for Children Charities. We are thankful that they are all well and happpy.

Randy and Dana, plus their two dogs, are doing well......they are looking forward to a cruise later this summer. I look forward to Randy's weekly phone calls. They so enjoyed their visit with Tiffany and Jordan and they wished they were living in Seattle rather than Sacramento.

As I write this.....our temperature is 110 and Wayne is literally enjoying an afternoon siesta. As I pause to reflect upon things around us, I have a joyful heart for our many blessings.
Arizona Gramma

Cowboy Rob's 9th Birthday

Cowboy Rob's ideal birthday celebration was spending the day in Bisbee and Tombstone, AZ with another side trip to Old Tucson. He loves the wild west and can tell you all the stories of Wyatt Earp and the other characters of that time. For over a year, he has been writing "his novel" transposing his friends to the wild west characters. He actually does a very good job and I can see a History Teacher and Writer in his future.

Rob is a very tender hearted boy, well mannered and appreciative, plus a very caring big guy. He is an excellent student, very obedient......loves Jesus and will be the first to lead everyone is prayer. He is a caring big brother and Ted calls him his best friend.......Needless to say, we are very proud of him.

He received his first "Stetson" cowboy hat for his birthday. We didn't think he would ever take that hat off! He was kind enough to tell everyone that their gift was his best, but that Stetson hat just could not be beat.

Rob had a hard time moving into the new house, as he is very sentimental......however, now he thinks his new room is pretty nice and he happy with the big house. He old house has become the "vacation" house and until it sells, he and Ted love to visit and enjoy their big pool.

We loved being with you on your birthday, Rob. We love you so much and we are so proud of you.
You are a big blessing to me and you definitely help make me a very happy and blessed
Arizona Gramma

JULY 4TH CELEBRATIONS

I hope everyone has enjoyed the Independence Day celebrations. We have so much to be thankful for in our independent nation. And, yet my heart is so heavy as we realize the freedoms that we are so slowly losing. Actually it isn't even slow...it is happening very fast! So fast, that as citizens I hope we wake up and start doing something about this!! What can we do?....well, we can make our voices and computers be heard.....calling and e-mailing our Representatives and Senators reminding them that they work for us and they can be fired.....to ask them to listen to the people and protect our freedom! We can attend local Tea Parties so others can see our presences.

On this day we are reminded of the many service men and women who have fought and died for our freedom.....never ever let this be in vain. My nephew, Mark, is presently stationed in Alsamabad, Pakistan and I ask for prayers concerning his safety. He has previously served 3 tours in Iraq and will be turning in his retirement papers in August.....pray for his safe return.

On the home front.....we had a nice day of celebration with Shari and family. BBQ at our home and then watching fireworks.
Fireworks are galore in Tucson, as every Country Club and Resort puts on elaborate displays plus the City of Tucson has a large display. My choice is the Tucson Golf and Country Club's spectacular display.....when in town we make a point to park where we have an awesome view and the boys love it. It is also in our part of town, so we don't have to go far.

Our Resort Park also has many activities.....people are coming and going the entire day.

Make it a point to be heard concerning our freedoms.....please don't sit back and take our freedom for granted.
Blessings to all......Arizona Gramma

TIFFANY'S 25TH BIRTHDAY

Birthday Greetings to our beautiful Granddaughter,Tiffany! She and her husband, Jordan, are in Seattle visiting her Dad, Randy. I just received a message from her stating they were having a very special time and were on their way for a birthday dinner. Knowing Randy, I know it will be at a terrific place on the water. This is Jordan's first trip to Seattle, so they have been enjoying all the sights and sounds.

They will be returning to Elverta, CA. later today where they manage a large storage complex. Tiffany has brought us so much joy throughout the years.....being our only Granddaughter has made her very special. It is hard to have her living far away, but we always want what is best for her and we live with the choices.

Again, Happy Birthday dear Tiffany. Know that you are loved very much and we are here for you. Come and see us soon.
You help make me a very Blessed Arizona Gramma.

Shari's Birthday '09

Wow seems like many of our family and friends events peak in June, July and August. Today, we celebrated Shari's birthday. 46 years ago I remember giving birth to a very tiny little girl that beat all odds for survival.....today she is a tall, beautiful and strong Godly woman, who is such a blessing to us and to so many others.

Tom, Rob and Ted showered her with a peaceful day and much love. They enjoyed brunch out and went to the theater. In the evening we all gathered for dinner and the boys helped her blow out the candles. Again, Mom's potato salad and baked beans were requested and Tom was chef of the grill.

Last night Tom's father hosted a birthday dinner for Shari at McGraws Cantina....a very western place that the boys love. Thanks Rod for a special evening

Since my Parkinson's days....Shari has completely stepped up to the plate and has all our family holidays and events at her home. I am so blessed to have a daughter who so willingly takes this responsibility. I remember having to do this at a young age when my Mother had severe rheumatoid arthritis and she turned the reins over to me. The Lord knew my future and gave me an awesome daughter to carry on our family traditions.

Thank you Shari for being so special.....my heart is full of love and I remain a very blessed and thankful
Arizona Gramma

FATHER'S DAY '09

How special to have the men in my life to be honored today. My husband, Wayne, Shari's husband Tom.....Tom's father Rod, Randy from afar, and of course, two boys who will probably be Father's in the future.

Wayne and I began Father's Day on a lazy note. However, we did go out for brunch and then home to put our feet up and read the papers and enjoy the peace and quiet of the morning. We had previously made the much requested "Mom's potato salad"and it was packed on ice to take to Shari's. Our Yorkie, Molly, just seems to know when we talk about Shari and the boys and she is one excited dog....so she was packed in her travel bag to head out the door.

We enjoyed grilled hamburgers, potato salad, baked beans and all the trimmings. Shari served cake and homemade applesauce served over icecream. The boys were so proud of pictures they had made for their Dad and each Grandpa.... and put into beautiful frames so they can easily be changed with each event.....and Tom and both Grandpa's left with beautiful new shirts.

We are thankful for the faithful men in our life and the examples they are to their children.

Birthday Club

Last week was Georgeann's birthday and, as usual, we celebrated with food, fun and lots of laughs. Georgeann is a very special friend, as we do many things together. We celebrated her birthday on the patio of Old Pubelo Grille on one of our awesome Tucson's warm evenings. This picture certainly does not begin to describe this beautiful patio, which is lined with lighted tall palm trees and flowing fountains. Our summer evenings are beyond description - you just stay inside during the heat of the day, which is easy when you know you have a fantastic evening ahead of you.

Georgeann's gorgeous foothills home was my last large design project before retiring with Parkinson's and she has remained a very close personal friend. We share a lot of fun and many concerns together. We always know we are just a phone call away and we keep the e-mails flying. They have a beautiful second home in Laguna Beach, CA. that overlooks the ocean. Her husband, Verne is retired and has a top of the line 'Rod Shop' in Tucson, which is the envy of most men. He recently finished a roadster (one of many) that is a show stopper.

We love our Birthday Club dinners and this evening was no exception. After all of our laughter, fun and fellowship and an evening spent with special friends, I know that I remain a very blessed Arizona Gramma.

Old Friends that are like family

My heart was so full the other evening when our former Everson neighbor, Michael Leidecker and his partner, Trevor, invited Shari, Wayne and me to have poolside dinner at the beautiful La Paloma Resort. Actually it is Dr. Leidecker now and I am so proud of him!! Mike's Mother, Steff, was the Manager of both of my Everson and then the Lynden Hallmark Stores, so Michael was always part of the scene, plus as our neighbor he was at our house a lot. His parents own Nooksack Valley Disposal.

I actually felt like part of my family had just returned home!! After graduating from High School, Mike travelled with "Up With People"....first as a performer and then was on staff for many years. Back to College he went and now has his Doctorate.... The good news is he will be returning to Tucson next month for a reunion with Up With People. We are looking forward to being a guest when they perform.

We were so impressed with Trevor, who is an Optometrist in Portland. A super neat guy who is easy to love.

Mike's sister, Chris, was also with Up with People and we were honored to be her host family when they travelled to Tucson....this was many years ago, but still a vivid and special memory for me.

Rob and Teddy enjoyed the beautiful pool at La Paloma the entire evening, as we relaxed, visited, ate and enjoyed another incredible, awesome Tucson evening.

Thanks guys for a great evening....Love to you from a blessed Arizona Gramma

Summer Parties

The heat of the summer is one of my favorite times in the Desert. Our mornings are so warm, fresh and beautiful and our evenings are beyond awesome. It is easy to stay out of the mid day heat as we know we are going to have a glorious evening to enjoy. Summer evenings are also the time that entertaining and parties take place. Our Snowbirds and winter visitors just don't know what they are missing!

We recently enjoyed celebrating our close friend Eileen's birthday with a delicious dinner on the patio of Vivance' Restaurant....an upscale Italian place.....an incredible evening with excellent food, fun, laughter and fellowship. Eileen is one of the top Realtors in Tucson and as I have described her in the past....always the "Hostess with the Mostess". This is our famous Birthday Club that meets and we have some amazing stories that could be told (but I won't) and laughter is high on the agenda. We are faithful friends that are always there for each other.

A few days after celebrating Eileen's birthday......Steve and Eileen invited a few couples over to their lovely home for a BBQ.
Another warm beautiful evening spent on the patio around the pool. You could literally sit outside all night without a sweater....just too glorious to describe. Steve has to be the "King of BBQ Ribs", as they are always the best fall off the bone ribs around. Thank you Steve and Eileen for another awesome evening.

Pictures from the top: Eileen - the birthday girl. Friends enjoying the evening. Bottom picture: Wayne and Georgeann.