Mom the Bomb

Super Bowl

2012-02-05T18:51:00.001-08:00

For any of you who thought the super bowl was exciting, watch this . . .

Engagement Party - Ashley/Landon Wedding Part 1

2012-01-24T18:01:00.000-08:00

Ashley and Landon were in SLC this weekend for an engagement party.

Landon started off well by bonding with grandpa and his guns. Grandpa was happy to show them off.

Scott and Connie opened their home to everyone. In true Texas tradition, the menu involved ribs and brisket.

The party was a huge success, with almost all of our Utah relatives attending. Landon was warmly welcomed into the family.

Kevin and his wife Nicole. . .

Suzanna and Ivan with Jaree and her darling baby . . .

Matt and Vanessa, Dave and Marla . . .

the beautiful Browns . . .

Stephanie (Lambie) and grandma . . .

Landon even whooped Scott in ping pong. Then he got beat by Wes.

Many thanks to Scott and Connie, who opened up their home to all of our relatives on both sides. Thank you, everyone for coming and sharing this exciting time with us. It was so great to see everyone and introduce them to Landon.

By the end of the party, so much snow had fallen the streets were icy and the mountains covered. One more introduction to Landon - driving on ice. Yikes! And, of course, beautiful Mt. Olympus.

The Wedding Planner

2012-01-06T20:45:00.000-08:00

Last week I flew up to Dallas to help Ashley try on wedding dresses.
We had a great time getting the dress altered, and buying shoes and accessories.
It was quite an efficient day, as we arranged the florist, booked Pappasito's, completed arrangements for the wedding site, picked out flower girl dresses and even ordered favors.
I flew up with my purse and wedding binder, as I was only staying one day.
In the middle of my flight back to Houston, the pilot announced a problem with the landing gear. Instead of continuing to Houston, as would be most logical, they decided to turn around and return to Dallas. Since they were anticipating a possible "crash landing" we circled for about an hour trying to eliminate as much fuel as possible. The stewardess then started yelling "HEAD DOWN, STAY DOWN." Before I put my head down I peaked out the window and saw the runway, complete with police cars, ambulance, and fire trucks, all with lights flashing. Our landing was fairly smooth and they weren't needed. (phew) But we were sent to a hotel that night to try again the next morning.
So much for my efficient day as a wedding planner.
Sure had fun with Ashley and Landon, though!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2011-12-31T22:08:00.000-08:00

Top Ten events for 2011
2011 - a year of progress - (more or less)

1. Mike accepted a job offer with Compucom and started working again (in Mexico City.) Which may not seem like progress, given that's pretty much where we were five years ago when I decided to join him in Mexico, but given the status of our retirement fund, believe me, it's progress.
2. We moved into and remodeled our home. Although we're not quite finished, we're quite happy with what we have completed. We have loved having family and friends come stay with us.
3. Enjoyed a Reed Family Reunion in March, when everyone came home for Mike's birthday. We even managed a group photo of the event.
4. Made a trip to Washington, D.C. to visit Poodle and help her pick out and buy a condo. (actually the only help I rendered was driving her around, as she made all of the decisions herself, but still, it was fun to be a part of it.) She ended up adding a dog to the mix as well. The best part, though, is that she is now driving herself around.
5. Made a trip to Nashville to visit Carrie and Shawn, just for the heck of it.
6. Bethany passed the boards. Hooray! Also, my practice has grown and we moved into a new, much larger office, giving us room for expansion.
7. Ran the St. George Marathon (#7 for me) with Poodle (#1 for her) and had a great time visiting Diane and Jerry. A week later Mike rode the 100 mile bike race in St. George with Ryan and Brandon (Peterson), who all did very well, I might add.
8. We became temple workers and have enjoyed serving every Friday evening.
9. Ashley got engaged to Landon Lee and will be married April 14, 2012!
10. We added our tenth grandchild - Charlie Babbel Harper on December 19.

Houston Zoo

2011-12-31T21:23:00.001-08:00

We took a trip to the zoo the day after Christmas.

Atley's favorite part was the snacks.

Asher's favorite was the drums.
Atley decided to be brave and ride the zebra, but had second thoughts as they started to go around.
Asher opted to sit by by Poodle.

And my favorite part was the ground hog bubble.

Christmas 2011- the photos tell it all . . .

2011-12-31T20:54:00.001-08:00

our Christmas tradition - the Nutcracker . . .

everyone's favorite Poodle . . .

Christmas breakfast at Ryan's . . .

with Brianna and Atley . . .

watching Asher with his favorite toy . . .

the beautiful Peterson girls . . .

opening stockings with Ashley and Landon

All in all, a wonderful Christmas!

Charlie Babbel Harper

2011-12-31T20:44:00.000-08:00

Charlie Babbel Harper
December 19, 2011
8 lb 5 oz

with big sister Violet

and a very happy mommy.
Delivered by an awesome OB/GYN.
Strong work!

I think I'm going crazy.

2011-12-13T20:45:00.000-08:00

Raise your hand if you agree.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-12T19:50:00.000-08:00

Coming soon . . .

posted a day late

2011-11-30T06:58:00.001-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY FAVORITE POODLE!

You're amazing!

I'm so proud to have you for a daughter.

Thanks for running St. George with me, even though you beat me

by more than an hour! You rock!

Love you!

Congratulations!

2011-11-28T17:43:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Ashley and Landon.
We're so excited for you.
You make a great couple!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T18:51:00.001-08:00

I can't believe another Thanksgiving has come and gone. It seems like just yesterday we were in Mexico inviting the missionaries over for Thanksgiving dinner in the evening, because it was just a regular day for everyone else in Mexico, pretending that nopales (cactus) were green beans, and missing our family.

This year was very low-key. We made several attempts to lure some company over for dinner, and were not successful. (Apparently they hadn't heard about our one pie per person rule) Lucky for us, the Harpers stayed in town and we had a great day with them.

Apparently, I haven't adjusted to cooking for less than a crowd, because we ended up with a 20 lb turkey, tons of stuffing (best ever recipe from Emeril) dad's potatoes, rolls, and five pies (actually exceeded our one pie per person rule.) The Harpers are going to be eating a lot of leftovers this week.
We're so grateful for family, church, employment, friends, and good health. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Renaissance Festival 2011

2011-11-24T18:24:00.000-08:00

After living in Houston for 19 years (altogether, not in sequence) we (I) decided to try a new adventure and go to the annual Renaissance Festival, an event that is hosted every fall for approximately one month in North Houston. It is quite the festive occasion, with people dressing up in authentic costumes, recreating the atmosphere from the Renaissance.

It draws HUGE crowds, as we discovered. I talked the Harpers into going with me (I had free tickets, which was a draw.) What we saved in admission cost, however, we more than made up for in gas. It took me almost three hours to get there, almost two hours of it on one stretch of road to get to the parking for the event. They were very good sports about the long drive.

We had a fun afternoon admiring the interesting characters we encountered.

We ate authentic Renaissance food (at least that's what they called it.)

And we watched a reenactment of a joust.
One of the fun events offered was an elephant ride, which Violet especially enjoyed.Until the elephant tried to grab her off the fence.
We had a great day, in spite of the long drive and the aggressive elephant. Thanks, Harpers for coming along so dad could stay home and write his talk.

11.11.11

2011-11-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

So grateful to live in the beautiful United States of America

Land of the Free. Home of the Brave

Many thanks to our dedicated troops who keep it that way.

Veterans Day 2011

I Phone (my phone)

2011-11-09T17:32:00.000-08:00

Do I have the best husband in the world?
Why, yes! Yes I do. Thanks for asking.
Perhaps that begs the question - Why is he the best?
Well among other things that I won't mention, he bought me a new iPhone 4S
Or as I call it - TECHNOLOGY FOR DUMMIES
Amazing!

Thanks, sweetie! You're the best!

HALLOWEEN 2011

2011-10-31T17:56:00.000-07:00

We had a great Halloween weekend . . .

starting with a picnic at Stephen F. Austin park . . .

and hike, of course
later some trick or treating . . . make that Trunk or treating

with a princess
a kitty cat
a chicken and cow

and lots of candy!
then Sunday dinner at Reed and Papa's with cookie decorating!Yep. Pretty busy weekend, as you can see!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FERNASH

2011-10-03T18:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful daughter! Hope it's the best one ever!

St. George Marathon 2011

2011-10-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday I finished the St. George Marathon for the very.last.time.
Why? (not why I ran it, but why I won't do it again)

Hottest day in the history of the marathon.

Due to a last-minute errand (dropping off our clothing retrieval bag) started way behind everyone else, and never found my friends I was planning to run with.

Forgot to bring my salt pills, which keep my electrolytes in balance during long runs.

As a consequence of two of the above, had severe muscle cramps in my feet sometime after the halfway mark and my feet contorted and turned in, tripping me. Ended up having to walk the rest of the marathon in order to keep my feet longer on the ground to control the spasms.

Decided to forgo the long line for the porta-potty at mile 7 to save time, but by the time I got to mile 9 (they are spaced conveniently every 2 miles along the course, just a few feet off the road) made a mad dash for the potty, and in my haste forgot to lock the door. Someone else with equal urgency opened the door and there I sat in front of a herd of runners.

*My apologies to anyone I may have made fun of in the past for not being able to complete a marathon in less than 5 hours.

So why DID I run the marathon again? Because Poodle wanted to run it with me. She did GREAT, running a 4:14 for her first marathon, on that hotter than HECK day.

And in spite of above complainings we had a GREAT time! We stayed at Jerry and Diane's and they were a blast! Poodle's friend Katelyn came to run with us and Laura to cheer us on.

Here we are the night before feeling pretty spry.

We laid our out clothes and took a picture of them - a tradition in Katelyn's family.

The pre-race bonfires, which are usually welcome relief from the cold, not so welcoming the morning of this race.
After race relief -

Jerry and Diane gave us a grand tour of St. George.

Congratulations, Poodle! so happy for you. so grateful you're doing better!

NASHVILLE CATS

2011-09-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to visit the Nashville cats for labor day. The weekend flew by way too fast, but we were able to enjoy being with the Funks. The best things about Nashville

The State Capitol is cool - on top of a grassy hill (that's fun to run down)

The Adventure Science Center - best hands-on science museum I've ever seen for kids (or adults) with blood vessels you can build yourself, a slide through the intestines that poops you out with a sound like passing gas, and a moon walk bungee anti-gravity walk.

The Pancake Pantry - with awesome sweet potato pancakes and even more awesome hash browns.

Country Music - free concert in the park - as a matter of fact, there are free concerts everywhere you go, including the airport!

Opry land hotel - one of the nicest convention centers I've seen.

but the best thing about nashville -

The Funks! Carrie, Shawn, Caroline, Devin and Graham - thanks for a wonderful time. We miss you!

Dear Ryan:

2011-08-05T13:32:00.001-07:00

Thank you for lending me your camelback hydration pack.
I almost made it to the end of the driveway.
Love,
Mom
p.s. the salt tablets worked wonders, though

Great run - kind of

2011-07-17T18:31:00.000-07:00

Beautiful long run saturday morning
Ran into six deer in total, one mother with three little fawns following her across the path, and another taking a drink out of the bayou,
wild boars, squirrels, and a few snakes.
Beautiful wildlife!
The run, on the other hand didn't go so well.
Let's just say complications arose.
Definitely not ready for the marathon!

Fun with Poodle

2011-06-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

I just spent a fabulous week in Washington D.C. with Poodle. We had many great adventures, (one of them being my driving.) Poodle was a perfect hostess. She let me borrow her blow dryer, toothpaste, and buy anything I wanted.

Good thing I remembered to bring my camera so I could share all of my great photos!

Here are some of the highlights:

We went house hunting.
and hosted a baby shower. (Of the eight people present at the shower, four of us attended the same elementary school in Holladay, Utah! Small world)

Poodle and I drove out to the country to pick raspberries.

and of course, we had to make a stop at Georgetown Cupcakes. MMMMMMM

But my favorite was kayaking on the Potomac River. As you can see, one of us did most of the rowing.

Thanks for the fun week, Poodle! You're the best!

Happy Anniversary

2011-06-17T18:51:00.001-07:00

Beautiful flowers
Romantic dinner at Parry's Steakhouse
a gorgeous new rug for our bedroom
=
Best Anniversary Ever

Thanks, sweetie

35 YEARS
AND MANY MORE TO COME

Summer in Houston

2011-06-12T19:07:00.001-07:00

and what's so great about summer?

ICECREAM, that's what!
first of the season - homemade raspberry
Yeah, baby!

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2011-05-23T19:06:00.001-07:00

to my baby. . .

the shady one. I LOVE YOU!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2011-05-15T19:42:00.001-07:00

to my beautiful daughter.

I love you, Bethy!

I WON THE LOTTERY!

2011-05-09T06:10:00.001-07:00

So did Poodle and Katelyn.
Which means we will be running the St. George Marathon on October 1st.
Anyone want to come cheer us on?

Sarah's Wedding

2011-05-08T18:02:00.000-07:00

We were in Utah this weekend celebrating the wedding of Sarah Brown and Jordan Hansen. President Eyring performed the sealing. It was beautiful! Here are some pictures of the beautiful couple, and other family members.
Sarah and Jordan leaving the temple
the happy couple and grandparents
the beautiful Browns

beautiful flowers at temple square
some of my family

Everything was in full bloom in Utah!

Easter 2011

2011-05-08T17:50:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind. Not unusual. We had a wonderful Easter enjoying our family in person and via telephone.

We are so blessed!

our back yard . . .

2011-04-08T18:32:00.001-07:00

(the part that we don't have to mow.)

Finally

2011-03-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

found my camera . . .

Reed Family Reunion 2011

Happy Birthday Bex!

2011-03-19T15:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Bex

Best.Teenager.Ever

also super mom. . .

and wife . . .

and daughter.

Got trash?

2011-03-13T19:03:00.000-07:00

The moving in process is almost complete. We have been through countless boxes - sorting, organizing, and sometimes just throwing out to the curb. Yesterday I heard Mike talking in our dining room. Since he was speaking in spanish, I went to see who our guests were. He was giving them a tour of our house and offering them some discarded items. Since I assumed they were the workers he had entertained during our rennovation process I joined in the fun and offered them some of the nicer items we had decided to discard - a very nice portable oven, space heater, etc. It wasn't until after they left that I found out he had never met them before. He saw them rummaging through our trash and told them they wouldn't find much there, then invited them into the house to continue their "shopping."

Itinerary

2011-02-27T19:32:00.000-08:00

Just so everyone knows:

While Bex and Shawn are here (Wednesday through Sunday) everyone is invited to eat breakfast and dinner with us in our newly rennovated (almost) kitchen.

Menu: (tenative)
Wed: Breakfast - Breakfast tacos, fruit, OJ

Dinner - Hamburgers on the grill, salad, guacamole and chips

Thurs: Breakfast - Muffins, berries,

Dinner - Shish-ka-bobs with rice, salad

Fri: Breakfast - Begnets, Fruit, Bacon, Hash browns

Dinner - Lupe Tortilla

Sat: Breakfast - Shipley's donuts and kolaches - before pictures

Dinner -BBQ and birthday cake

Sunday: No breakfast - fast sunday

Dinner - Shrimp linguine

Please let me know who will be attending what days.

Bad News

2011-02-23T19:49:00.000-08:00

Remember when we decided to move our furniture back from Mexico?
And the moving company told us it would be here in two weeks?
(plenty of time before Bex and Shawn were to arrive)
OK, maybe you don't remember, but I sure do.
Turns out, they lied.
What they meant to say was that it would take more than a month.
So . . . my stuff is still stuck in Mexico, and will be for quite some time.

Not to worry, Bex. We're making the necessary accommodations.
No hay problema!

This is me

2011-01-30T12:55:00.000-08:00

THURSDAY
Worst.Day.Ever
Something about eyelashes and glue
Don't ask.
Glad to finally go home and get to bed.
Set my alarm a little earlier -(babies to see at two different hospitals 30 minutes from one another in the am)
FRIDAY
Jumped out of bed at the first sound of the alarm
Showered
Make-up
Blow-dried hair
Packed a baggie of Swedish fish for lunch
Before backing my car out of the garage glanced at the clock on my dashboard:
12:37 am

Bayou Nature Park

2011-01-22T17:12:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of the nature park to entice the Funks to come visit so we can take them:

and if that doesn't entice you, this should:

cute little Atley, whom you've never seen!

anybody else want to come?

HAPPY 2011!

2011-01-02T17:44:00.000-08:00

Ode to 2010 - the year of transitions - Our Top Ten

Shacking up at Bethy's house because I was homeless (thanks Bethy and Brandon)
Accepting two job offers
Being fired from the first job before I started, then dad being fired after 12 years of service in Mexico
Graduations of Shady (BYU, Spanish), Brandon (BYU, Geology and Engineering) and Shawn (UT Medical School)
One trip to Nashville
Two trips to Mexico City
Three trips to Utah
An "almost" trip to Amsterdam
Buying a home and closing on it the last business day of the year
The birth of Atley Kae Reed - Grandchild #9 - Best transition of the year (actually more of a transition for them than us)

Christmas 2010

2010-12-31T21:19:00.000-08:00

Why do I love Christmas?

(sorry you weren't here, Funks)

This is why. What a great year!

Nutcracker

2010-12-19T19:01:00.000-08:00

This year I decided to start a new tradition and take all of the "girls" to the Nutcracker matinee performance. I knew Mabel would love it, but was a little worried about whether Annie would be able to sit through it. Annie was enthralled and Mabel had never seen so many "princesses" at once in her life. She was hesitant to leave during intermission because she wanted to make sure she would be able to come back for the rest of the performance.

Shady probably enjoyed the art as much as the music.

Bethany and her beautiful girls

Mabel wanted to share her drink with her nutcracker doll.
We missed Carrie and Caroline and Brianna and Atley, and Violet. Maybe next year!

Dancing with the Stars

2010-12-12T12:59:00.000-08:00

Anybody know Corky Ballas?
Yeah, me neither,
until last night.
He was at the Tomball Hospital Christmas Party.
They hired him to come perform.
As a side number he gave the group dancing lessons.
Then he and his partner roamed the room looking for "problem students,"
and guess who they found?
DTB danced with Natalia - his sexy, volumptuous and extremely talented partner,
and Corky took on me.
After a few short minutes of instruction we both looked pretty impressive -
until we got back together.
but that's where we're going to stay. In spite of the dance missteps -
he's still the one.

Poodle

2010-11-29T19:12:00.000-08:00

Happy 30th Birthday Poodle!
We love you!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T18:00:00.001-08:00

So grateful . . .

and so many more.

Nieto #9

2010-11-28T17:52:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Ryan and Brianna for making us grandparents again.
Little Atley is beautiful!
and Asher - well he's adjusting quite well.

Halloween

2010-11-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

We encountered quite a few spooky creatures on Halloween:

the beautiful Peterson girls . . .

brother, Shady and company

the cutest little cowboy EVER . . .

Paul, the octopus (predictor of the World Cup)

(I guess she would have to be his ghost, since he passed away this week)

Princess sock hop

Lego my Eggo Annie

and, scariest of all - the lovely Yoda!

One last hoorah

2010-10-17T17:48:00.000-07:00

So, I'm a little behind . . . but. . .
two weekends ago we returned to Mexico for one last goodbye party hosted by our good friends Oscar and Vanessa Roja.
While there, we visited a few of our favorite spots.

Tacos Chamisal - the best food in Mexico is on the street. (not the safest, mind you, but the best)
Now THIS is a taco!

our favorite bancas on Reforma . . .

other art on Reforma . . .

and wonderful friends!
We forgot to bring our camera to Oscar's party, so no photos of them. Thanks, Oscar and Vanessa for a wonderful evening!

Happy Birthday, Fernash!

2010-10-03T05:22:00.000-07:00

Today you turn 28.
I can't believe how fast the years have gone.
You came into the world in a hurry
and have not slowed down yet.
Every time I think of you
I smile!

Happy Birthday to a wonderful daughter!

Super Saturday

2010-09-26T21:58:00.001-07:00

an early morning run with a cool breeze +
hamburgers at Barnaby's with the Harpdogs +
splashpad at Discovery Green with Violet +
pomegranates from Kroger with Shady =
a Super Saturday!

The Nashville cats

2010-09-21T06:37:00.000-07:00

Highlights from our trip to visit the Funks:

Loveless cafe - the food: school lunch fries, flavorless, but juicy chicken, and great biscuits. the experience: couldn't be better! (and that's saying a lot for taking three kids out to dinner)

Caroline's soccer game: the photos tell it all

I'm not sure they were aware that they "lost" the game.

Cheekwood - a beautiful place, the kids were even excited about going through the museum. I loved every minute of it.

Here's how we occupied ourselves during Devin's surgery:

Poor little post-op Devin: hungry. drugged. hurting, but not knowing why.
The only things he said: to me "I want more crackers (or donuts, or . . .)", to Caroline - "stop looking at me!" (she was very interested in why his eyes looked "different.") Poor baby!
We can't wait to visit again!

Ladrones!

2010-09-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

I'm working in Spring, Texas, which is a very nice suburb in north Houston. I've found, though that even in nice suburbs there can be a little rifraf.

Yesterday when I arrived at the office the electricity was out. This time we couldn't blame a nasty hurricane or the power company. Apparently, the night before, a couple of thieves decided to steal some copper wiring behind the shopping center. The cut the large cable containing copper, hooked it up to their truck, and drove away, ripping the copper-filled cable out of the ground. And with it - all of the electric wiring. Although our office had power the next am, the power company shut off power to the entire shopping center due to the live wires.

So, for the small gain of about $50 worth of copper for the thieves, five businesses were shut down for several days, at a cost of thousands to each business. Our business was the only one that stayed open, thanks to Tad, my partner and the owner. Within a couple of hours he had a generator hooked up, fans throughout the office, lamps in every room, and sheets printed out to replace our computer system. Given the humidity from the tropical storm and lack of A/C, we looked pretty frizzed by the end of the day.

JERKS!

A Few Good Women

2010-08-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend I ran the Provo River Half Marathon with some chilanga friends from Mexico City.
These ladies can take on anything
and still keep smiling.
I'm proud to call them my friends.

Fun with Poodle

2010-07-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

Poodle was here last weekend and we had so much fun:

Yep, everybody loves Poodle! Thanks for coming!

Happy Birthday, America!

2010-07-04T07:37:00.001-07:00

Oh thus be it ever when freemen shall stand
Between their loved homes, and the war's desolation,
Blessed with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just
And this be our motto, "In God is our Trust."
And the Star Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.

Francis Scott Key - 4th verse

Thank you to our troops!

Love/Hate

2010-07-03T15:22:00.000-07:00

I love getting my hair cut and styled into a cute hairdo.
I hate getting caught in a flash flood without an umbrella 15 minutes afterward.

to my favorite son . . .

2010-06-27T13:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday!

You're the best son a mom could ask for.

The big 80th birthday bash

2010-06-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

Mom's birthday bash was lots of fun. It was great to see everyone again.

Matt and Vanessa with all their kids . . .
Dave and Marla with Stephie and Jackie - such cute girls!

"the cousins"- Matt and Paul (although it is a bit disappointing that they don't run to us and jump into our arms anymore)

Tiffany and Brian - they had an exciting announcement to share!

Aunt Ashley flew in from California and Bethany's family flew in from Houston. Here is Ashley trying to be the favorite aunt.

David and Alissa made it after an adventuresome day packing an entire apartment into a single axle U-haul trailer. Strong work, guys!

Bethy and Annie
Cindy was there with her entire family, looking beautiful, as always.

and, of course, the special attraction and guest of honor: mom. Happy 80th Birthday, Mom!

Congratulations, Dr. Funk!

2010-05-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

It's quite an accomplishment and we couldn't be prouder. Since you were occupied getting your diploma, I thought I'd give you a perspective of the process through the eyes of your 4-year-old.

Conversations with Caroline

Heard during the commencement exercises:

(as the band began to play Pomp and Circumstance)
Caroline: "Grandma, this is the music they play just before all the princesses come out."
Me: "So your daddy is a princess?"

(explaining to me the purpose of the event)
Caroline: "Now my daddy doesn't have to be a pretend doctor. He can be a real engineer and fix people's bones." - actually very intuitive.

(as the students were receiving diplomas)
Caroline (in her biggest outdoor voice): "YEAH!!! WAHOO!! WAY TO GO, DADDY!!!"
Carrie: "Caroline, shhhh. That's not Daddy."
(laughter all around us )

(as the program dragged on)
Caroline: "Grandma, how much longer until my daddy gets his scarf?"

He finally got it.

Congratulations to the entire family! Job well done!

and this is how Papa entertained himself during the program.

Happy Birthday, Shady!

2010-05-23T05:16:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to my baby . . .

who now has her own baby

Wow! That went by fast! I love you both.

what is this, Arizona?

2010-05-18T07:47:00.000-07:00

So last week Shady and I were driving on the Westpark Tollway when I was pulled over by a cop. Why, you might ask?

speeding? nope. I was well within the speed limit
driving without a license? nope. I had my valid Texas license
expired registration? nope. Registration valid, as was the insurance and state inspection.
driving on the tollway without a toll tag? wrong again. tag was clearly visible

He pulled me over because of my Mexican plates - plain and simple. Being frustrated that he could find no law broken he did give me a "preemptive" ticket - since my registration will expire in a month or two, he said, this ticket will become valid when it does. Then he told me he would be watching for me, and would pull me over again if he saw me on the tollway.
So, I didn't know you could give someone a ticket for something that hasn't happened yet. "Ma'am, you weren't speeding now, but I'm sure you will be in the future, so this ticket will become valid when you do. Please go turn yourself in."
Profiling? I may not look Mexican, but clearly - this is profiling.

Happy Birthday, Bethy!

2010-05-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

To the woman who can do it all:
Great mom!Fabulous cook
Amazing OB/GYN
Devoted wife
Wonderful daughter
Fun sister

You amaze me! Happy Birthday -(a day late)

Riddle:

2010-05-14T20:53:00.001-07:00

Q: What is more difficult than balancing the national deficit?

A: Getting a picture of eight children ages four and under - all looking at the camera at the same time. (These were the two best of around 50 shots)

what makes the perfect long run?

2010-05-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

beautiful, overcast skies

a cool breeze

winding trails through the forest

delicious wild dewberries flanking the paths

low humidity (well, relatively)

a "runner's high"

Oh yeah, baby!

The Graduates

2010-04-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

We celebrated the graduation of the Harpers this weekend

by going to Arches National Park -
where Violet graduated to solid food.

She had a great time

until she ran out of gas. (It's a tough job keeping Papa in line)

Our last stop - delicate arch.
So beautiful!

Congratulations!

Bluebonnets and more

2010-04-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

Some of the things I missed in Mexico . . .

the pretty bluebonnets
the beautiful parks

This park is in the center of downtown and is supplied with policemen on horseback, plenty of playground equipment, and a huge splash pad for the kids. Also - Mike and I saw Cats this week at Miller Outdoor Theatre.

and especially - my family!

Great Weekend!

2010-04-05T19:53:00.000-07:00

First up - asher's birthday party - all I can say is WOW!

Horseshoes, cotton candy, great food, stick-horse races, horse roping, and much more.

The cousins loved it . . . especially the cotton candy (pictures to come)

and Asher was adorable!

Match Day

2010-03-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

Carrie's reaction to Match results . . .

Happy Birthday Carrie!

2010-03-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

This says it better than I could.

Price list

2010-03-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

moving my things to Katy - $1,250.00
"repairs" to my car that worked perfectly in Mexico - $1,535.00 and counting
apartment - $813.00 per month
prescription pads with my name and the address of the pediatric office - $19.00
utilities for new apartment - $185.00 per month
new computer with appropriate software compatible with their office system - $899.00
start up fee for malpractice insurance - $250.00
applications for hospital privileges - $25.00 each
being told (after having the agreed-upon start date pushed back four times) that they didn't have enough money to hire me - PRICELESS!

It's official

2010-03-12T08:06:00.000-08:00

I'm TICKED!

El Lago de los Cisnes (Swan Lake)

2010-03-06T18:32:00.000-08:00

This weekend I took Dad-the-bad to El Lago de los Cisnes in Mexico City for his birthday. (I know, every man's dream.) It is performed outside in Chapultapec Park on the lake in front of Chapultapec Castle. The night was starry, the weather was perfect, the performance was enchanting, and dad even pretended to enjoy it. (Don't worry, I have a great present waiting for him in Houston that he's going to love.)

Since photos were "absolutamente prohibido," I snatched these off the web. Too bad, too, because they just don't capture the magic of the evening.

Thanks for being such a good sport, sweetie!

Mi Guapo

2010-03-04T15:48:00.001-08:00

Feliz cumpleaños, mi amor!

weekend

2010-03-03T20:14:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Brandon was in town being recruited by Rice University, where he is considering doing graduate work. We couldn't resist the chance to get together at a churrascaria, but then dad will use pretty much any excuse to go to a Brazilian restaurant. It was great seeing Brandon. Wish Lindsey and Violet could have joined him.

Home

2010-02-26T13:26:00.000-08:00

So we made an offer on a home here in Katy. The offer was accepted. It's a very pretty, one-story lakefront home with four bedrooms, which means we'll be expecting company. Yes, that means you! So I'm not so bummed about not going to Amsterdam.

Yesterday

2010-02-21T14:51:00.000-08:00

we went to The Dump to find a new bedroom set

hung out at Costco

drove around looking at houses

and even shared a frozen yogurt for dinner.

Pretty decent day! EXCEPT that we were supposed to be here.

so I'm a little bummed. On the bright side, we did spend the day together.

Valentines 2010

2010-02-15T17:25:00.000-08:00

Why was my Valentines great, even though the love of my life was in another country?

he sent me Ethel M chocolates, and called me on Valentines
I was invited to eat with each of my children in Houston
ate with the Funks, since they were the first to ask - Shawn's homemade pizza bread and mac and cheese were awesome!
had fun making cookies with Ryan and Brianna
saw each of my Texas grandkids
had leftover shrimp scampi with linguini with the Petersons tonight
Violet loved the package I sent her
and the best - I get to see Mike this week and have Valentines all over again!

I love you, guapo!

We're back

2010-02-02T08:30:00.000-08:00

we've just downsized - from 4,400 sf to 650. yep, pretty tight, but nice and cozy. love it!

strong girls

2010-01-28T12:14:00.000-08:00

I have discovered that my oldest two granddaughters are both very strong - albeit in very different ways. Recently, at their four-year-old check-ups they both received the appropriate immunizations.

Caroline wanted to impress her mother with her "big girl" attitude. She insisted that she was not going to cry, she was WAY too strong for that. She stood, stoic, received her shots and exclaimed "it really didn't hurt."

Mabel, on the other hand, was more interested in impressing us with her physical strength. Since she is quite aware the shots do, indeed hurt, she kicked so hard when the nurse tried to inject them that she bent the needle, forcing it out. That girl is STRONG! But she ended up getting the shot twice.

I LOVE these girls!

hp Pavillion dv4-2167sb

2010-01-21T19:24:00.000-08:00

Hi! I am posting from my new hp laptop. I used my fingerprint scanner to log into blogger. This nifty device is loaded with an Intel core i3-330M processor 2.13 GHz, with 4 GB memory, microphone and webcam built in, with a 14" screen. Wow!! And it comes with Windows 7 Professional, so I can use it at the office. I didn't know computers could be so fun!!

for Poodle

2010-01-14T16:12:00.000-08:00

a little glimpse of life
at the Petersons'

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2010-01-01T20:14:00.000-08:00

Top ten events from 2009:
10. Organizing the Intercambio de Ropa for Chapultapec Stake
9. Trip to Paris, France with DTB - complete with free Flip Video camera
8. Teaching Institute
7. Mission trip to Xalapa, Vera Cruz
6. Thanksgiving weekend at Bethy's and bargain shopping with Poodle
5. DTB´s "unauthorized" service in the Stake Presidency
4. Weekend in Huatulco with Fernash
3. Experiencing Semana Santa in Mexico City - observing Via Cruz and later watching the quemada de Judas
2. Turning a Pediatric conference into a wonderful family weekend in San Antonio
1. The birth of Asher, Leah, Violet, and Graham!

It´s been a GREAT year. I don´t know if it can get any better.
(pictures will be posted soon)

Christmas 2009

2009-12-30T18:08:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HUSBAND + HAPPY CHILDREN + HAPPY GRANDKIDS = WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS

No better way to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

and now for the pictures of all the happiness:
Bethy´s fabulous Chrismtas brunch
Mabel in her first (and probably favorite) outfit of the day
Caroline - very serious about her new bike
Devin - not so much the theme of the toys this year seemed to be mobility - from bikes to cars
to high heels
except for Leah, who was happy to sit on Papa´s lap
great Christmas with the happy Reeds,the happy Funks,and the happy Petersons
which makes me VERY happy! We missed you, Fernash and Poodle, but were happy you had fun together.

tomorrow

2009-12-20T21:11:00.001-08:00

tomorrow I leave

a place I have called home for nearly three years

with heavy heart

my mind whirling with memories

of friends I love

of experiences and adventures that have changed me.
I leave a country of beauty

and turmoil

a little more wise

a lot more grateful

sad that I could not have done more.

although we will shuttle back and forth

it will not be the same. ever.

tomorrow I return -

back to the home I love.

concrete

2009-12-18T11:09:00.000-08:00

Here in Mexico concrete is the method of choice for construction. They use it for practically everything. Houses are not framed with wood, they are built completely with cement.
Even the telephone poles are made of cement.
How do I know this?
because I ran into one while out running this morning.
yep. concrete.

Top Performers 2009

2009-12-17T14:40:00.000-08:00

This year's Top Performer trip was late - due to the recession and lack of funds earlier this year, but they pulled it off. Here is where we stayed - Huatulco, Mexico (for the second time this year.)We enjoyed four wheeling . . . (don't worry, they didn't let me drive)
playing games on the beach . . . (dad's team won) Did you see me? I sailed! I'm a sailor! I sail! With the wind and the waves-- ahoy! (compliments of Lindsey)
dancing on the beach (to dissuade any talent scouts, we're not disclosing pictures of us)and jet skiing (again, no driving for me - I think DTB considers me "high risk")It was a blast - one of the "perks" at Nextiraone. Thanks, Claudia for another fabulous Top Performers!

Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

2009-12-12T19:28:00.000-08:00

Last night fireworks went off all night and I thought it might be one of the many Synagogues near our home celebrating Hanukkah. Turns out, it was the celebration of "Dia de Guadalupe", who is Mexico's "Patron Saint". On this day thousands of faithful Catholics from around the country make a pilgrimage to the Basilica de Guadalupe, where it is believed she appeared to Juan Diego in a vision. Guadalupe is the Catholic icon of the virgin Mary, also known as Virgin de Guadalupe. According to the legend, Juan Diego, a simple indigenous peasant, saw a vision of a young girl surrounded by light on December 12, 1531. She asked him to build a church at the site in her honor. He immediately recognized her as the Virgin Mary and went to tell Bishop Fray Juan de Zumárraga, who asked for a sign. The virgin then told Diego to gather flowers (which were not in season and not indigenous,) which he did. She arranged them on his cloak, and when he presented the cloak to the Catholic Bishop, her image appeared on the cloak. This was taken as a sign, describing her image as containing a coded message for the "Aztec" people.

Since I was intrigued, we decided to go on another adventure. First we visited our temple in Mexico City, which is close by, after which we walked over to taste a bit of the Mexican culture. We found thousands finishing their pilgrimage to the Basilica, which was built in her honor. We also interviewed several people. Check them out on YouTube: click here and here and here.

This is where everyone was headed: The Basilica de Guadalupe Some were in costume, others dancing, some carrying her picture as an "offering"
One man we saw walked the entire distance on his knees. He was obviously in great pain.
Many vendors took advantage of the event by selling their wares.
and everywhere you turned, there was an altar to the Virgin.
Once again, a very interesting cultural experience - a very different experience from visiting the temple that morning.

Driving

2009-12-09T18:49:00.001-08:00

I recently had a discussion with my husband, in which he noted (after I had backed his car into our neighbor's car) that my problem (with driving) is that I pay attention to other things besides driving. Well yes, I do. Doesn't everyone? Are you really supposed to think about NOTHING when you're driving (except driving)? Seriously? (this is not a rhetorical question - I would appreciate feedback from anyone and everyone. We may be on the verge of a breakthrough.)

Merry Christmas 2009 - Christmas letter

2009-12-07T19:26:00.000-08:00

Dear family: Please review the following letter and make any corrections or changes that you wish before I mail it out. (aren't I nice to give you a preview?)

Dear family and friends:

Another year has passed, and with it, many events in the Reed Family. We are still enjoying our adventure in Mexico City (these events have not included being kidnapped, mugged, or caught in a drug shoot-out.) In fact, most of the exciting happenings have been in the states or other countries with our children. Read on if you're interested in the highlights.

Bethany and Brandon, during a wild ride to the hospital, welcomed a third beautiful daughter, Leah Bluebonnet, to their family (see the three girls in photo bottom left.) She joins big sisters Mabel (3) and Annie (1). Bethany is still practicing Ob/Gyn in Katy, Texas, and is a wonderful mom!

Ryan and Brianna were thrilled to add Asher Ryan (their first, and a boy!) to their family (see photo left upper corner.) He was born on tax day, April 15. Yikes, is there a career in accounting in his future? Ryan completed his second triathlon this past year with Asher and Brianna cheering him on.

Brittany is enjoying life in Washington, D.C. She is a physics teacher at Bullis Academy and she and Ashley travel the world.(photo center right) This summer's adventure took them to Dubai and Rome. I'm jealous! Brittany has become quite the athlete, completing a mud run, the 197 mile "Ragnar Run" (group effort), and a junk food half-marathon.

Ashley (also photo center left) is still working with an economic consulting firm in Dallas, but will be transferring to Menlo Park, California early next year. She made a great score on the GRE and is considering graduate school in her future. In addition to her escapades with Brittany, she joined us for a long weekend in Huatulco, Mexico.

Carrie and Shawn had their third child, Graham Rodney, who joined Caroline (3) and Devin (2). Carrie has been busy with the kids while Shawn has been interviewing for positions in Orthopedic Surgery residencies. We're hoping they stay close. They're hoping for the best program.

Lindsey and Brandon lost their newlywed status by becoming parents of Violet Alena. Lindsey is enjoying her journey into motherhood while she completes her last class at BYU for her degree in Spanish. In April, Brandon will graduate with a double major in Geology and Engineering. Then they'll be off to graduate school.

As you can see, we have had quite a prosperous year, now with eight grandchildren. Mike's company goes on and off the market almost as often as the power goes off in Mexico City (actually, a bit of an exaggeration, since that is usually several times a day.) Hence, we live life day to day and are enjoying being together and visiting our wonderful family. What could be better than that?

Grateful

2009-12-05T10:20:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays - family, friends, pies, giving thanks. This year as I was thinking about what I was thankful for, I remembered many of the small acts of kindness that I have been the recipient over the years. These are only a few of them:

my husband fills my water bottle every night and sets it on my nightstand (in case I get thirsty,) is able to get any stain out of my clothes, calls me "guerrita," and in spite of the many accidents I've had still lets me drive his car.
my children forgive me over and over when I am "not smart."
a friend of mine invited me to a movie after I'd heard some unpleasant gossip going around.
my son-in-law insisted on taking over my assignment of picking up an incoming family member from Hobby Airport, because it was too late at night.
one of my daughters is a bargain queen. she shares her good finds with me.
Devin confusing me with Poodle. I realize he is (was) almost blind, but still. Quite a compliment.
my daughters making dinner many, many times while I was in residency, or coming to the hospital to eat dinner with me.
once when I was 9 months pregnant I came out of the bathroom with my dress tucked into my underwear and Carol Burns chased me down and untucked it.
after my first major accident - I totaled my car and was a bit shaken up - my sister surprised me with a new pair of shoes.
my daughters recently invited me to go to a movie with them.
my granddaughter spontaneously threw her arms around me and said "I just love you, Reed."
my sister told one of her neighbors about my penchant for jelly rings and she (Shannon?) had a bag waiting for me when I came in town.
my parents do the same
my daughter writing me a note of gratitude when she was in college.
my son and daughter-in-law surprised me by cleaning my fridge while I was out of town taking a class for my board exams.
another daughter showing me that the scissor-tailed flycather (crazy bird) that was attacking me while I was out running was only protecting her young.

and so many, many more. I feel very blessed.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-01T06:47:00.001-08:00

We were invited to Thanksgiving at Bethy's this year. And if anyone is wondering, it was a "Martha Stewart" production. Excellent job.
very festive
with the entire Peterson clan attending, as well as most of the Reeds
dad made his famous mashed potatoes

there was even a "kiddy" table with place cards.
and after dinner a "craft hour" - taught by Patrice - while the guys were watching football. We made these cute ballerina skirts for the girls.

Thanks, Bethy!

Happy Birthday, Poodle!

2009-11-30T10:35:00.000-08:00

Hope you had a happy birthday yesterday. Here are a few reminders of how great you are!
a wonderful sister . . .
a great athlete . . .
with an uncanny sense of fashion . . .
a loyal friend . . .
a cool aunt . . .
the best teacher ever - and a perfect daughter!
We love you!

Driving

2009-11-30T08:44:00.000-08:00

Good job, Shady!

2009-11-19T10:26:00.000-08:00

I asked the Harpers to make me some pillows to decorate my new bedspread and this is what they came up with. The long pillow has gold stitching, but doesn't show up well here. Hopefully, they're washable, because I smashed a big black spider all over one of them yesterday in self-defense.

Black Monday

2009-11-16T18:22:00.000-08:00

Today I discovered the equivalent of "black friday," (the day after thanksgiving) - or the craziest shopping day of the year. Since Mexicans don't have a thanksgiving, apparently the holiday they use to set off the shopping frenzy is Dia de Revolución - which was today. It was crazy - just like in the US.
Today they celebrate a revolution that was spurred by Francisco Madero in 1910 against autocrat Porfirio Diaz, who was acting President of Mexico. Pres. Diaz was unpopular due to his exploitation and repression of the lower class. Madero eventually succeeded, and the Mexican Constitution was adopted in 1917.

Paris

2009-11-15T17:11:00.000-08:00

Adjectives that describe Paris:
interesting - i don't know what more to say about this one

impressive - The Eiffel tower, built in 1899 is quite an engineering feat

stunning - the Sacre cour was my favorite historical monument ,filled with intriquitely beautiful mosaiques

Historic - I went to this famous graveyard and took pictures of the graves of Chopin (for me) and Jim Morrison (for dad) but I'm posting this one, which was far more interesting. I did have trouble finding Jim Morrison's grave, until I saw a group of piercing-studded 20-somethings smoking in front of a grave. It was a dead give-away. (get it?)
Delicious - with a pastry store on nearly every corner we had a heyday. my personal favorite - apple tart
pedestrian-friendly - it is pretty easy to see the entire city on foot -and this "Promenade Plantee" was one of my favorite walks. very clean. very safe.

"beautiful and awestruck" - (Eiffel Tower interview)

and romantic - this ia a video we took during our Seine River 5-course dinner cruise.

Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead)

2009-11-06T16:14:00.000-08:00

Turns out, I didn't miss Dia de Muertos after spending Halloween in Houston! Yep. The day after I returned was Nov 2, and this lovely chocolate skull was waiting for me in the clinic. The celebration of Dia de Muertos dates back to the Aztec, although the customs have changed considerably. Probably the most popular image of the day is the Catrina skeleton, created by artist José Guadalupe Posada. He created her as a metaphoric representation of the upper class - kind of making fun of them. Although many enjoy a sense of "entitlement," they - like the lower class - cannot escape death.

She is so popular, in fact, that in one city they painted this street in her image.
You usually start seeing pan de muerte in October. It is decorated on top with two crossbones (los huesitos de la muerte or bones of death.) Mexicans think it's "riquisimo," however, I haven't developed a taste for it.

These paper cut-outs are ubiquitous during Dia de Muerte.

and people make altars to their deceased loved ones - decorating them with flowers, their favorite food, and remembrances. It is a day where they forget the abyss that separates the dead from the living. They also decorate the graves with the same purple and orange flowers (la flor del zempazúchitl) and treats. According to custom, the deceased return to their gravesite (or altar) that day. It is important to have plenty of their favorite beverage ready (usually beer) to quench their thirst after the long journey.

Pretty cool tradition!

Pink

2009-11-04T14:05:00.000-08:00

I love spending time with the grandkids. They make me laugh. While I was watching Caroline and Devin, Caroline gave me some insight into the Funk "house rules."
"Daddy. says. (to Devin) don't. hold. pink. things!"Apparently, he is allowed to ride around on a pink tricycle wearing pink sunglasses (at least when grandma is babysitting - oops!)

Halloween in Houston

2009-11-03T11:18:00.001-08:00

Halloween means different things to different people. For me, it was having fun with my grandkids.
to Annie - it was all about the candy!

for Mabel it was about the clothes. (these are just two of the outfits she tried on that day.

Devin enjoyed being with the cousins - especially Annie! and after one week of adjusting to a new baby brother, Caroline enjoyed the freedom.

Asher cared most about the cute bucket his mom made him - so much, in fact, that he tried to eat it.

and Leah was all about being cute! (She did enjoy some "reprocessed" chocolate, however)

It was great fun! Thanks for letting me stay for Halloween.

Nieto #8 - Graham Rodney Funk

2009-11-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

Welcome Graham
son of Carrie and Shawn
little brother of Caroline and Devin
cousin of Mabel, Annie, Leah, Asher, and Violet
8th grandchild of Reed and papa

Caroline is taking her role as big sister quite seriously.

I've never seen anyone so excited about a new sibling than Devin.

Month at a glance - first up - the Wedding

2009-11-02T10:10:00.001-08:00

Wow! I can't believe I've been gone for over a month! I'm back in Mexico City with my computer, ready to record some of the events.
The first event was the wedding of David and Alyssa Ashton. It was so fun to be there and see them sealed for eternity. Here is my beautiful sister and her family after the wedding.
and here are the Ashton girls - so beautiful!

Homecoming!

2009-10-16T18:38:00.001-07:00

Little Violet loved her "homecoming" outfit. Doesn't she look cute?

Lindsey didn't have quite such luck. She lost her shoes somewhere between labor and delivery and post partum, so the nurses lent her some "booties" to wear home.
the Harpdogs - such a cute family!

Baby's Baby - isn't she beautiful?

and she finally has a complete name - Violet Alena Harper. It took them awhile to come up with the middle name, but I love it!