The Isom Family

Akwaaba!!! Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T21:07:00.002-07:00

The year of 2011 sure came in like a bang this year! We went to our friends Thomas & Katrina Appiah's house. The Ghanaian community that exists here in Utah has literally enveloped our little family into their group.

They are a fabulous people. They are expressive, kind, laugh a lot. They like to have loud music in the background, people playing the Wii, an intense board game going on, and a bunch of people talking and laughing all at the same time. AND while eating food. This took a little bit of adjusting for me because its joyful chaos going on! And me being the anti-clutter person I am, I had to adjust. And I did and enjoyed every minute of it. We all did!

Jake struck up friendships all over again with the kids that were there that he met originally in October. He was off and playing before I even sat down.

Towards the end of the night some of the men got together and started playing a game called "Drift." Similar to the game checkers but instead of the checkers you play with round thin pieces of wood. It was very interesting to watch. In Ghana although the most spoken language is Twi and in Accra most of them know a good amount of English, there are more than 50 different languages spoken in the country depending on the region. Thomas and Ben we playing and several times they broke out into song and apparently Thomas was trying to speak Ben's language.

We LOVE these people! We are so glad they are going to be around for our Ghanaian children so they can know of their country and participate in some of the traditions from their home country.

We had sooo much fun I took very little pictures! I admit, it made me LONG for this adoption process to be over as I am very weary of not hearing anything for so long. Happy New Year! Make it 2011 the best yet!

Christmas Vacation with Yogi in 3D!

2010-12-29T23:16:00.014-07:00

The days are short, cold, and dreary this time of year in Utah so to liven things up during Christmas vacation, I took Jake and his good friend Dean to see a matinee of Yogi Bear. I got the show times mixed up and actually took them to the show in 3D (Which I did not know until today makes matinees several bukaroos more and 3D gives this Mama a headache). But what was done was done and I was not about to back out after seeing how excited they were to see the flick.

Thumbs up from these two cute boys.

Yes Jake ate that entire tub almost all by himself. Mama is allergic to corn.

These two were being good sports after the show as the snow started dumping on us! Glad Jake has good friends like Dean to be with!

13 going on Forever. Happy Birthday to us!

2010-12-27T23:33:00.001-07:00

The time has flown by and yet barely started. I can't remember what life was like before Jeff was in it. We've been together over 13 1/2 years and have now been married for 13. Oh how I adore this man! He amazes me still just how much he loves me. He knows I am quirky, spunky, high wired, dramatic, opinionated, sometimes neurotic, and have been told I have a "very strong" personality and yet he still loves me back!

We celebrated this year going to The Roof Restaurant. It has a fantastic view down into Temple Square year round, especially during the Christmas Season. The Roof is overpriced for the buffet they serve in my humble opinion. The Little America Buffet beats them hands down. But how to you compare with the ambiance of a Rooftop Restaurant overlooking a an iconic structure that took 40 years to build and is revered by millions of people around the world? You can't. And that's how it stays in business.

It was great to spend time just the two of us. He's still my favorite person in the world and my best friend. Happy Anniversary Babe!

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2010

2010-12-25T23:01:00.001-07:00

In one of my previous posts this year I spoke about my Uncle Grant passing away earlier this year. This left my crazy, sweet Aunt Valeen all alone for the first time on Christmas. I could not bear for this to happen. This great lady who has shown me so much love and support my entire life and is one of my favorite people in the world was not going to spend the day all alone!!!! So I called her and told her she was coming to stay with us for Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. She grumbled and tried to back out to spare us from her (whatever!) and I told her I would not take no for an answer. She said yes and I quietly went to work to make these two days special for all of us.

As a tradition in our little family we make a Christmas Eve trip to downtown Salt Lake and have lunch or dinner and take in the Christmas lights at the Gateway and Temple Square.

We decided on lunch this year and started our day at the Olive Garden downtown (one of my aunt's all time favorite places to eat). Below is a picture of Jake and Valeen heading into the restaurant.

Valeen is so fun to take places! Her classic "Oh Gad's" and ways she expresses herself and interacts with people is hilarious and uniquely Aunt Valeen. Jake adores her just like I did at his age (and still do).


Here we are in the Olive Garden. Nothing like yummy hot food on a cold day!

Our next stop was The Gateway. We walked around this jewel of the city and took in all the decorations and shops. Coldwater Creek which is on of Valeen's favorite stores next to Nordstroms was having a huge sale and Valeen was able to pick up a few super cute things for dirt cheap. She himed and hawed about buying it but I told her she could make it her Christmas present to herself. While we were inside the store doing our lady shopping bonding thing, Jeff and Jake were outside playing in the water fountain. Jake is definitely my child as he did not care that it was 25 degrees, he still ran through the water. Crazy kid!

Enjoying the fun at The Gateway

The great light rail system in downtown Salt Lake is great because you can ride it for free around downtown. So we parked at the JSMB building and hoped on the train over to the Gateway. Super slick and great for Valeen too!

As I mentioned previously, Jake and Valeen are bosom friends and I caught a fun moment between them on the light rail. See below. You can't beat memories like these!

Our last stop was Temple Square. It was about 5:00 pm and dusk. Valeen was a little tired and the crowd started to accumulate. So I searched around the square for a wheel chair so she could fully enjoy everything and not get trampled or slip and fall.

The new Nativity on the lawn next to the tabernacle is spectacular. Last year I posted a bunch of pictures of it because I loved it so much. Being able to watch the account of Christ's birth with the large statue of the Christus all lit up in the North Visitors Center always makes my heart swell in gratitude for our Savior, Jesus Christ and the sacrifice he gave for us. I am in awe! Valeen loved it and got a front row seat because of the wheels. She told us afterward that she had not been down to see the lights in over 20 years. It was a special treat for sure!


Not a bad little photographer if I do say so myself!! Course the subject matter was easy!


Here's another. I LOVE the red lights and the contrast. Magnificent!

All around the square and near the Church Office Building and adjacent gardens were life size nativities from countries all over the world. We looked at all of them. The luminaries were also fun to see the images and words about this glorious season.

I LOVE Luminaries!

We headed for home about 7:00 pm for our "Late Night" Christmas Eve Activity. As the adults all got comfy in our jammies Jake was a busy bee downstairs getting the couch all set up for us to watch the movie "Elf."

Here is our cute boy waiting for us to get started.


My place was next to Jake and Jeff and Auntie Valeen was so sweet to hold Rudolph and Frosty while we watch.

After Elf, Jake scurried to bed and Jeff and I prepared things for Santa to come. Valeen stayed up with us and chatted, told us stories and we had a fun time. 2:00 am rolled around and all was quiet until later that morning.

I promised Valeen I would not post any pictures without her face on, so there are no picture of her opening her presents on Christmas morning, because we did have some for her. She was floored we thought of her and I loved EVERY minute of her surprises! Below is Jeff and Jake opening up the presents!

A Christmas Morning Tradition in our house is a gigantic breakfast with every breakfast food you can think of. This meal is so big, we don't eat until the early evening because we are so stuffed. Jake is old enough now that he asked about this traditional meal way in advance. "It's tradition Mom, and the best breakfast of the whole year!" Love. That. Boy!

Grandma and Grandpa Isom are still serving their LDS mission to Vancover, Canada so we skyped them later in the evening. Grandma and Grandpa Clark came over in the afternoon to see Jake's loot and get their presents!


Jake showing off his new video camera.

Of course the meaning of the season was not forgotten as we reflect on the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ whom we owe our salvation to.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

An Annual Isom Christmas Tradition "Hayrides in the Park".

2010-12-19T21:53:00.021-07:00

We LOVE where we live! Love, love, love it! When you are at my house you feel you are in a rural little town. 2 miles up the road you have pretty much all the shopping you ever want or need. Our town has about 70 thousand people in it but where our neighborhood is situated, it still has that small town feel. I have the best of both worlds. And we have great little hometown burger joints like the Burger Stop.

Every year the Burger Stop partners with Layton City and does a free hayride in Layton Commons Park. They encourage you to donate $2 dollars to charity as admission to the hayride. This is perfect for little ones as it is not too long and takes about 15 minutes round trip. I usually can get a good round of caroling going on the hayride, this year it feel completely FLAT!!! I mean really, the lights, the hayride, all bundled up with red noses, snuggled in blankets, don't you just want to start humming Jingle Bells picturing it in your mind?? Que the music!

It was still fun and a tradition we will continue year after year. I love my little family and my life! We are so blessed!

On the Hayride taking in the lights.

Don't you feel like singing???


The Burger Stop has the cutest Santa Claus, real beard and everything.

This fun little hometown favorite even has a jukebox. They make fabulous shakes and their 4 cheese grilled cheese is one of my favorites. Yay for the memories! Hope your holiday season is going well too!

Welcome to the world Halle Girl!

2010-12-17T16:58:00.004-07:00

After an exhausting week overdue, my sis Kathy had her long awaited first child. Halle Ann Taylor was born on December 15th, 2010 at 3:23 PM and was: 8lbs. 15 oz. 22 inches long. We are thrilled for Kath and Derrick.

Halle looks a lot like her Daddy but also looks quite a bit like Jacob did when he was little. Kath and I compared Halle and Jake's pictures and some of them are uncanny how much they look alike.

Jake has loved that Halle looks like him. With no biological siblings, this is the first little cousin that has looked like him. We love you Halle Girl and are thrilled you are apart of our family.

This next pic is of Kath's doggy Malone who is getting his first look at Halle. It reminds me of Lady and the Tramp. Maloney is part human, I tell ya!

Jake ADORES Halle!

She's a cutie pie!

Poor Stockton! He is not sure of this new little person who cries a lot

and hogs all the attention.

Jake’s Choir Concert

2010-12-10T10:56:00.002-07:00

While I would love to say that Jake has inherited a fantastic singing voice from the Clark and Jones sides of his family, I cannot. He has to work really hard to sing on key.

His voice has improved greatly and he sings much better on key. This was his concert for his singing group at school. Singing in front of an audience is very scary for Jake, but he seems to be doing much better. I love how hard he tries.

Here are some pictures of the concert.


Can you guess what they are singing?

Below is a clip of the singing...

The Jowdza Fest with the Isom side of the Family.

2010-12-04T23:50:00.016-07:00

Jeff's siblings got together for the annual Christmas Party. They made a family favorite dinner called Jowdza which is a Chinese dish their Dad made for them that he learned how to make while he was in Taiwan serving an LDS mission there 40+ years ago. It's basically a rendition of Asian pot stickers that are steamed instead of fried. The entire family chows on these things. It's hilarious to watch. They eat until they are literally sick to their stomachs and can't move. Adam worked his head off to make this day special for everyone. Kudos to Adam, we love you, you are awesome.

They also exchanged presents. The funniest exchange is when Matt opened his present from his sister Linda and it was Bon Jovi tickets. He was speechless and looked like he might cry. Great night for all the cousins.

See what I mean?? Matt was floored!!!

The Fogotten Carols..... a new Isom Family Tradition

2010-12-03T23:10:00.013-07:00

This year we opted to got the Forgotten Carols rather than the Nutcracker. Although i have loved the music and spirit of this production for almost 20 years, I had never seen it on stage.

We saw it at the Dee Events Center in Ogden, it was spectacular! Totally worth the money. We are now lifers!

A few pictures from the performance. Really makes you think about what is important.

I met Michael McClain (pictured above) about 17 years ago, I sang a solo in his home ward in Heber City at Christmas time. He gave us a wonderful little fireside for the 28 of us who were in the choir. Great memories!

The view outside my Window

2010-12-01T22:38:00.001-07:00

I stepped outside today to see the splendor of this beautiful area of the world in which I choose to live. The air is frigid cold, but the views are spectacular. There is nothing like a winter sunset that fills the the sky and paints the snow-caped mountains pink. Proof to me that their is a God who left his hand print everywhere.

This is my view from my kitchen bay window. Just stunning!!!

I hope wherever you are, you can find beauty in your surroundings, happy winter everyone.

Feliz Navidad

2010-12-01T21:10:00.005-07:00

I volunteered to purchase and decorate the Charter School Christmas Tree at North Davis Preparatory Academy. All 12 FEET of it!

We are required as charter school parents to volunteer 30 hours a school year. Since I have no idea what 2011 will bring regarding our adoption, I knew I could get a bunch of hours by doing this. The vice principal wanted a Spanish theme since we are a International Spanish Academy. She also wanted all the decorations to be the same color's as Spain's flag.

In my research I learned that the three wisemen are celebrated there like we celebrate Santa Claus here. They are on tree's and adorn street decorations, everything. And they don't disperse presents until after Christmas, symbolizing the coming of the three wiseman to visit Jesus after he was born. Since we are technically a public charter school, we tread on dangerous ground putting too much emphasis on religion.

So, I stuck with the glittery colors and did my best to make things look "Spanish". I was pretty proud of my work on a shoe string budget, but the it was obviously not what the vice principal had in mind even though she approved and saw all the decorations before I bought them. Oh well, you can't win them all! Below is the tree:

The ornament balls had a nice mosaic look to them.


Note: I was smart this time and decorated the top piece of the tree before I stuck in altogether. It had to be tweaked a bit once it was on, but MUCH easier than decorating it on a 12 ft ladder.

See the gigantic Spanish roses?? They are my favorite.

The tree received TONS of compliments, just not to the liking of the VP. I think it's pretty darn cute for a public school tree!

A Tour Through our House

2010-11-29T22:08:00.000-07:00

To say I go a little over the top on Christmas decorations would be an understatement. I deck out the kitchen, entryway, front room, family room and Jake even has a little tree in his room because he is after all, "Mr. Christmas."

So come on over! You're about to get a free tour of the Jeff Isom Family's house at Christmas time!

One of the only benefits of being married around Christmas is you get lots of Christmas Decorations as gifts.

Here is the outside. You never know when there will be enough snow to get a good shot . So here is our cute little house.

If you look closely you not only can see the Christmas tree inside, but the glow from the Christmas Village that sits on top of the bookcase.


I always wanted a big porch to decorate with and it's been so fun to dress it up!


Here we are in the entryway. I decided to add some vinyl this year. Not sure if I will do that again.


Here is the ledge above the door.

The Christmas Village: The old church and Tinker's Toyshop

The Hotel, City Hall, & the Bridge & Sleigh

Noble Taylor, Hoffman's Cigar House, Frozen Pond

And the two homes. Christmas is not the same without a village. It makes Christmas magical for me.

The village sits on top of the bookcase because it is all ceramic and porcelain, it kind of looks like a mountain village to me.

My favorite Nativity. Joseph lost his hand a few Christmas's back, but it gets glued back on every year. It's become a tradition!

The traditional Nativity

The Jolly Old Elf Himself

I love my Christmas Plates in my Kitchen!!

This is above the hutch in the kitchen.

This is above the cabinets.


The basement family room tree: This tree I let Jake put all the ornaments he makes at school and all the ornaments Jeff had when he had when he was a little boy.

This saying goes on each tree.

Basement Bookcase


And last but not least, the Precious Moments Nativity for kids. Every year I put the baby Jesus in the manger and every year Jacob says, "Hey Mom Jesus does not go there, he wants his Mommy to hold him." And then he moves Jesus so that he is in Mary's arms. Out of the mouths of babes!! I sure love that boy!

I hope this tour through our home will make you feel just a little more in the Christmas mood and a window into our happy world. Happy Holidays!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-27T21:58:00.009-07:00

We had a very low-key Thanksgiving this year and it was nice. We rotate dinner between the two families and it was our year to have Thanksgiving with Jeff's family. But with his Mom and Dad on an LDS mission we spent it with my Mom and Dad, my brother Jon and his kids, and my Aunt Valeen.

My Mom, Aunt Valeen and I made the food. Valeen made her famous Shrimp and Cabbage salad which is a family favorite.

The best part for me was watching my 13 year old nephew Taylor (far left) who loved hearing stories from his great Aunt Valeen and his Grandpa. He's a good kid and it was nice to see his interest in listening to family history.

The buffet and kid's table and my cute Aunt Valeen.

Some of the food. Always yummy.

Notice the Thanksgiving garland on the fireplace mantel? Jake worked really hard to put that together for Grandma. Grandma loved it.

These two turkeys!!! They made up a song while playing together. They are kindred spirits, they both have very active imaginations and they laugh and laugh and laugh. My cousins Heather and Cameron were like that growing up. Still close to them today.

Jake and Hunter, love them both!

Jacob the Singer. Singing for the Layton City Lighting Ceremony

2010-11-23T23:27:00.004-07:00

Unfortunatly Jake is not a natural when it comes to singing on key. But he is improved greatly this year. He loves to sing and dance but get's scared when they sing in public. I put him in the choir this year so he could get used to singing with an audience. This boy wants to make movies so he might as well get over the stage fright early.

His choir group was one of the groups who sang for the Christmas lighting of the city park where we live.

That boy sang his heart out. He did so good I shed a few tears of pride and a few more that he was 8 and no longer a little boy. We have enjoyed each stage of his life and I love that he is always reading. Jeff and I have worked very hard with him this year to help him be a better reader and it is finally paying off.

No without further adieu, here are the pictures of the event:

Getting ready for the performance. He was so excited to sing a real stage.

He sang his little heart out.

I know I am biased but he is one cute boy,

Basketball Jake

2010-11-20T00:54:00.016-07:00

This year is the first year Jacob is eligible to play Itty Bitty Junior Jazz. He was so excited! It's hard when you are the only child to be able to play all sports well. A lot of kids in the neighborhood have that luxury. Still, Jake has fun and tries hard. At this age it's basically watching ball hogs. Whoever has the ball tends to not pass it to the other teammates too well. All the same, I like that it is Coed and he gets the experience of playing.

The sad thing was the season was short so there were only 5 games. Here's hoping there is more next year.

Waiting for a pass

Mom pllease quit taking pictures of me!

And he's ready to jump

We love our Jake!

The Clark / Jones Combined Baby Shower for Kath

2010-11-13T19:23:00.001-07:00

After sending 60 invites and a lot of food prep, today was the day for my sister Kathy's shower. My sister-in-law Lisa and I worked like slaves to make everything nice. Lisa has a great house and very large kitchen perfect for parties such as these.

Thanks to all those who came and made the effort to come. I know she was extremely grateful for each and every gift. Now onto the pictures!

The Food. We had a brunch, Yummo!

More Goodies

Our sister-in-law Heather made the party favors. Are they cute or what? Thanks Heather! We love you!

Aunt Valeen and Grandma Karen

Kathy opening up her loot.

Cute Kath and in the pink shirt, sweetheart Becca Hoxer

Cousin Heidi looking gorgeous with two cute babies who are cousins, Hadley Jones and Alley Ray

Grandma Karen keeping track of the gifts

Beautiful Aunt Sue. I adore this woman!


Cute as a button Hadley (Paige Jone's daughter)

Now I may be biased but I think we are all quite a cute bunch! Thanks ladies for a great day, we love you all!

Pine Wood Derby “Man” Style

2010-11-12T23:04:00.000-07:00

Our men's church group had an activity in which they all made Pinewood Derby Cars to race. The normal rules they use in Cub Scouts were thrown out the window and the only stipulation was that it could not be rigged with any electronic enhancements.

Jeff was in Santa Barbara, CA all week (the poor sap) for business so Jake and I helped out by painting his car while he was gone. Jake insisted on silver so it would be like the Delorean from Back to the Future (he has a thing for 80's and 90's trilogies). So I painted it silver and Jeff came home and added weights to it according to some instructions he read on the web.

For a bunch of dude's in their mid twenties to late thirties, it was hilarious to see how much work they all put into these cars. Jeff put in very little because of lack of time.

After catching flack for his simple car from those who had spend hours and hours working on their cars, Jeff smoked them all. His car came in FIRST place! It all had to do with the weight and the design. Not the simple paint job.

It was a fun activity and it was great to see the different ways the men came up with cars. One of our friends made a car shaped like a hot dog bun, to which he added an edible hot dog for the race.

I should have hooped and hollered when he won but instead I just did a few "Wahoo's." Jeff won the top prize and bragging rights. He's a modest man that does not gloat which made it even worse for those who worked their tails off.

WAY TO GO JEFFRY, YOU ROCK!

It may be ugly but it was FAST!

There he is with his name in lights!


The man in the striped sweater takes this track all around. He had it hooked up to the computer and everything. This proves that every man is truly still a little boy in many ways.

I belong……….

2010-11-06T23:16:00.020-06:00

Jacob Jeffry Isom was baptized a member of The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints today November 6^th 2010. He had to be baptized twice because his foot shot up the first time. He thought that was pretty cool.

What a bittersweet day for a parent. He received the gift of the Holy Ghost. He now is accountable for his actions. So the innocence of being a little boy is gone. He was prepared and excited to become a member.

I lost it and sobbed when we sang "When I am baptised." I was proud that he alone made this righteous choice and sad he was no longer a little boy.

Part of his birthday present was a party after his baptism. That was what he wanted most for his birthday. So I slaved in the kitchen making six roasts for French Dip sandwiches. We fed over 65 people despite the many who were not able to make it due to illness or other circumstances. Every single bit of the French Dip was eaten with very few leftovers. Jake was in his element.

Jeff stood up to greet everyone and do introductions, and Jake said he wanted to say something so here is what he said "Thank you for coming to my baptism and if you have presents"…… at that point Jeff stuck his hand over Jake's mouth.

He had observed people coming in with presents and wanted to make sure he received them. Eight year olds do not have tact, or rather our eight year old does not. We were mortified but everyone just laughed.
It was a tight squeeze but everyone fit, had a great time, and were well fed.

A BIG HUMONGOUS Thank you goes out to my cousin Heather, and my Aunt Peggy and Uncle Leon who stayed and helped clean up the kitchen. We would have been there hours without you. Another HUMONGOUS thanks goes to one of my Besties, Melissa Hughes who went over to the church early with her family to get everything ready. It's great to have good family and friends. We love you all and thank you soooo much!

I was so busy with everything I did not take good pictures of the dinner after. Here are a few.

Right after Jake was baptised.

The room we held the dinner.

Jake insisted it be decorated too.

Getting ready for all the people.

On days like this it pays to be organized. It makes life so much less stressful.

The guests at the party.

People clearing out after being well fed.

Thanks to all those who came out and supported Jake and help take down chairs or work in the kitchen. We LOVE you! It was a wonderful day.

Happy 37th Birthday to my favorite Man!

2010-11-02T23:38:00.016-06:00

Isn't this a fantastic picture of my sweetheart Jeff? I think so. It shows his handsome kind face, and twinkle in his eye.

I don't think words can express properly what I feel for this great man who is my husband. But I will try.

To my Jeff:

You are my world
You are my heart and soul
You build me up when I'm feeling down
You hold me tight when I need a good cry
You laugh at all my many weird antics and silly habits
You make me smile just seeing your face
You let me spread my wings and fly
You love me in my successes and celebrate with me
You even love me in many of my failures and tell me never to give up
You are a man of God who honors his priesthood faithfully
You are a fantastic father and Jake adores you
You make me feel beautiful despite all my flaws
You tell me when I'm wrong and don't put up with any nonsense
You are every cheesy love song

Our love is special. It is why cheesy songs are written, why Shakespeare wrote what he did. My greatest desire is to be a good enough person so that I can spend the eternities being with you and loving you.

So happy birthday to my best friend, the man who helped me find who I am today and the person I want to be. The person who taught me about unconditional love. I am lucky. I never knew what love was until I met you. Thank you for being my husband, thank you for being Jake's Dad. Thank you for working so hard for us. We have a great, blessed life. And I can't imagine a life without you in it.

Yes I turn into a Cheese Bum when I get sentimental about my sweetheart. I can't help it. He makes every day a great! Love you babe, you truly are the best!

There he is, cute as ever.

Jake and Jeff reading cards.

Jeff's birthday is traditionally busy. Every 7 years it's the day we vote. So

we did our civic duty before we celebrated.

We had the traditional Ice Cream Cake from Baskin Robbins. Jeff's favorite.

Happy Halloween

2010-11-01T22:58:00.001-06:00

I don't know what happened to me on Halloween this year. I took no pictures of pumpkins! We were glad Jeff was home this Halloween (last Halloween he was at the Ute Football Game) and Jake was the cutest Clone Trooper Ever! Happy Halloween!

Jake’s first Pack Meeting

2010-10-27T22:45:00.030-06:00

Jacob had his first Cub Scout Pack Meeting tonight. Jeff is in Santa Barbara on a business trip so I flyed as the solo parent to the meeting. He so was so stinkin excited! Jeff was the eleven year old Scout Leader for about a year and Jake loved having the boys in our home.

He had gone to his first scout den meeting the day before and he hardly could wait for the pack meeting the next day. I love this boy. He has so much enthusiasm for life it is contagious. He felt so important too. Here are some picts.

Reading what Cheer the Pack would do.

The Pack giving him a round of applause.

Listening how to play one of the games.

Playing one of the games, having a ball!

There, now Jeff will feel like he was there. I don't really like when he has to travel but I am such and independent person, I can do it. I just miss my best friend and having him sleep next me at night. Jake sleeps there instead but I put a barrier of pillows between us because he likes to kick me in the face, it's not the same. Love you Jeffry, you are the best!

The Taylor Shower for Kath

2010-10-23T21:36:00.019-06:00

My younger sister Kathy has had a very similar struggle trying to get pregnant as I have. After being married six and a half years, she got pregnant. Her baby girl is due the second week in December. I am thrilled for her! She will be a super great awesome Mom.

Here are some pictures of the Taylor family shower. Her husband Derrick's family gave her a great shower and she got some super cute things.

Kathy and our niece Lily. Lily was so excited about all the presents.

Lots of presents!

Cute!

Our Mom makes a Raggidy Ann doll for all the girls born in the family.

This one even came with extra outfits.

Lily the little helper.

Dosen't Kath look so cute?

Super Cute Cake.

Lots of quilts and blankets.

Adorable diaper holder.

We love you Kath! We can't wait to meet Halle Ann!

It’s great to be Eight

2010-10-20T23:00:00.006-06:00

Although this is a very hard blog post for me to write, I am so proud of my it is also a privilege. My baby boy Jacob is now eight years old. Words cannot express the joys that he is brought to me and Jeff these past eight years. The sad part is how fast the years flown by.

Thank heavens he still hops in bed with me every morning and wants to snuggle before going to school. And thank heavens he is still blowing me kisses as he heads off to school. But he is no longer a little boy. He is a boy.

Jake has had to deal with plenty of adversity in his young life. Before the age of three he was in Speech, Physical, and Occupational therapy. Because of my rough pregnancy they had to knock him out at three years old to fix his teeth. At five years old he had surgery on his feet and his eyes. Six months after the surgery his cognitive development took a giant leap forward. A little boy who was barely at the lowest part of the average is now at the top of his class.

Jacob is a very sensitive soul. He can get rowdy, but he is not naturally a rough person. He has an innate ability to chase the blues away and make people around him feel like a million bucks. He seems to sense when someone needs extra eencouragement.

This past fall Jake has struggled with a bully in school. For those of you who know me well you know I will fight to the ends of the earth for my kids, including the ones who are not with us yet. Thankfully the situation appears to be mostly resolved and Jacob's resilience is something to be admired.

Jake is a wonderful little companion. I can throw them in the car and run errands and go about my business and most of the time he cheerfully accompanies me without complaint. He is a great kid who rolls with it. We are fortunate.

Jacob understands the importance of what turning eight means to our faith. And he has taken very seriously the choice to be baptized. And it is his choice. I wanted to make sure he knew that he had a choice; it was not just expected of him.

For the past year, we have been reading with him all of the books of Scripture we believe in. We have read the Book of Mormon, the Bible, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. In fact, we have read through them twice. This was his request when he turned seven, because he wanted to know that these books were true in order to feel comfortable making the decision to being baptized. He loves these books. He loves hearing about the stories of the prophets and the people. His intellect and understanding of these things far surpasses where I was at his age. But the world that he is growing up in is far different from the world I grew up in. I hope that Jeff and I give him all the tools to succeed in life and help him grow spiritually as a person.

Jacob's request for his birthday was to frost sugar cookies. He's not a dessert person other than cookies. So we put a candle on top of a cookie and sang happy birthday to him. We love you so so much Jacob. Happy Birthday!

Grandma & Grandpa Clark came to Celebrate

Jake received Scriptures from his Grandpa and Grandma Isom

who are serving an LDS mission in Vancouver, BC. Thank you!

Lego Star Wars for the Wii from Grandma & Grandpa Clark

Cub Scout Uniform for Jake. He is so excited to be a Scout!

He is taking this very seriously.

Working in the Sugar Cookies. Serious Business.

Fun at a FREE Jazz Game

2010-10-15T22:11:00.022-06:00

The bishop of our LDS ward who is also a friend called us yesterday afternoon and wondered if we would like to go to the Jazz game that night. They had three extra tickets in the nosebleed section. Since Jake has had a rough go of it at school and it was a FREE outing, we made arrangements to go.

Our son Jacob is quite a kid. When he bonds with someone, you are his friend for life. The Bishop and Jake bonded a year or so ago and Jake wants to hug him every time he sees him. I think it's cute because the bishop (Mark) always put out his hand as Jake smothers him with a hug.

Jeff and I also wanted to see how he did at the game. Up until last spring taking him to a sporting event was torture. He would last for about 45 minutes and then start chanting; "Let's go home." He did great at the red and white game in the spring but that was a shorter game so we were anxious to see how he would do.

He was hilarious. He loved it! He got into all of the audience chants and cheered when they scored, the whole bit. It was great fun. Basketball is by far my favorite sport to watch, partly because I understand it the best. Guess we're going to have to schedule this as at least an annual event.

I love my boys and my life. They bring me more joy than I ever thought I would have in this life. Thanks Mark and Trudy for the tickets!

Da Boys

Checkin out my zooming capabilites on my camera

Jake is an offical Popcorn Addict.

Bishop Mark and Jake

The Ultimate Jazz Fan

So cute, he just grabbed Mark's hand at the end and off the went.

Our New Friends from Ghana

2010-10-09T23:41:00.003-06:00

I think it's amazing the way God works his miracles. Several months ago several friends connected me with a fellow member of our Church who currently lives in Ghana. His name is Stephen. He met his wife while attending Utah State. They moved back to Ghana after living here in Utah and in Alaska. He is an entrepreneur who has started a new business. He and his wife Sonja are also tireless Humanitarian workers doing so much work for those who are less fortunate.

We also have made friends with a man who works with Jeff who also is from Ghana. His name is Thomas. We have been humbled by these loving, giving people and their friendliness and kindness towards us.

By a miracle when I emailed Stephen he was here in Utah doing translation for our Church's General Conference. Thomas had invited us to a party where Stephen would be as well as other Ghanaians at his house in Bountiful. We met some wonderful people. We enjoyed their food and learning more about their culture and people. Jake had a bunch of kids to play with so he loved it too.

Stephen talked to us at length about our adoption, places to stay, etc. He was more than gracious and kind to people who were perfect strangers to him weeks before.

By the end of the night, we had exchanged numbers with several of the people there and felt adopted into their little group. Our adoption classes teach us that it is really good to have a mentor for our child who is of the same race to look up to. We found several living here which put my mind at ease.

This journey this year has been a phenomenal growth experience for me and for Jeff. Our testimonies have grown and our faith in God and his miracles increase.

The only down side was seeing all there beautiful children and thinking of our child(ren) there we are going to adopt. My heart aches to know who they are and for them to be home with us. Are they being well-cared for? Are they hungry? Do they feel alone? All these things that are beyond my control. I have spent many sleepless nights thinking about them, longing to hold them close to me and be their mother. I am an impatient person. I hate waiting. International Adoption is not for everyone. There are so many obstacles to endure and the waiting is so very hard.

I have had several people say; "This has to be harder than trying to get pregnant." Since I have been in both places I can tell you it is not. It's very hard. But after years and years of trying nearly everything to have another biological child, waiting for the "sure thing" although it takes a while, does not hold a candle to infertility.

So we wait and we pray. We pray for everyone involved in helping us adopt from our agency. We pray for the children we are planning to adopt. We pray for patience. And we pray for those who have not accepted the fact that we are adopting young children instead of waiting years and years and years to adopt a baby. Heavenly Father never wanted us to do that anyway. We have had multiple confirmations to adopt young children and that is what we are doing and we know we will blessed for following his counsel.

Me, Stephen and Jeff

A wild game of Table Tennis

The man in the suit was from Nigeria. He is a bishop there and works for the

LDS church in the travel department. There is a picture of him in the November Ensign. He was missing his family terrible that night with all the kids around.

Jake trying to get in the action

Jake and some of his new friends

The fam with Thomas and his wife Katrina. They have a lovely home a were gracious hosts.

Listening to God's word while enjoying God's creations

2010-10-03T19:20:00.002-06:00

For those of you who are active members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the first weekend in October we do not have church, ever. Instead we listen to inspirational talks and music from the leaders of our church. Prophets, Apostles and so forth. There are five sessions; four of those sessions are for everyone. One session that is not for everyone is for the men and boys 12 and over in the church. That session is held on Saturday night. Each of the five sessions is about two hours in length with two hours of a break in-between.

I look forward to this every six months. This gives me time to reevaluate the person I am, the person I want to be, and to seek help and inspiration in my quest to be the best me I can be.

For the last session on Sunday afternoon, we decided to pack up a picnic lunch, grab our radio, and head up to Snowbasin Ski Resort which is a short 25 minute drive from our doorstep. We invited my mom and dad to come with us and ended up being a fantastic outing. We had sandwiches and listened to the words of the prophets in the middle of one of God's amazing works of art. If you have not been up to Snowbasin and you live in Utah, you won't be disappointed in the drive. The splendor of the colors of autumn that cascades around us seemed only fitting for the wonderful messages we are receiving.

I adore fall! In fact, I feel really cheated if I have not driven up here every year to see the splendor of colors. The gorgeous yellows of the quaking aspen, the Reds mixed with a hint of green, and the deep oranges. It's as if it is God's canvas and he paints masterpiece every fall and we get to drink it in. Just call me a Mountain Mama and I'll be happy with that title.

Jake talking his Grandpa Clark's ear off. They are bosom buddies.

Jake and Grandpa went exploring.

Off they go!

This was our picnic spot! It was gorgeous!

A look at the gondolla. I have been up this gondolla several times to the Needles Lodge. Super yummy food and a spectacular view.

I turn my head for a moment and Jake had climbed on top of this bear!

We decided to head through Ogden Canyon on the way home. The music from "Dances with Wolves" accompanied the scenery.

More Ogden Canyon Splendor

Ogden River

Waterfall at the mouth of the Canyon. I took it in a moving car, that is why it is blurry. Fabulous afternnoon!

A Trip to the Zoo

2010-10-01T22:30:00.001-06:00

Okay so I need to admit something, I have a super WEAK stomach. I can't decide whether it's my smeller (Nose) or a combination of my smeller and stomach that easily nauseates me. Because of this I avoid places that have a Stench. The Zoo is at the top of my list. Although I love to see the animals, the thought of being at The Hogle Zoo on a hot summer day with the hot asphalt is not my idea of a party.

So we go to the Zoo in the Fall, Winter, and Spring. Granted it still stinks, but not near as bad. We have even gone on Thanksgiving a couple of times to see them have their Thanksgiving dinner. The only place that made me gag was the Hippo house. Happy Mom, happy outing.

Continuing on our little "Staycations" theme, we went to the Zoo in October. I must say they have made quite a bit of improvement since last I visited a few years back. We had lunch there and then went anywhere Jacob wanted to go. I love the little baby elephant and her sweet mama. I would have to say my favorite were the giraffes. I could've spent several hours watching these beautiful creatures. They are the epitome of the term "gentle giants". Jeff decided be a little bit of the smarty pants and create a dialogue between two of the giraffes. This provided quite a bit of comic relief for Jacob and I and we had a great laugh.

I so love being with my two boys. The happiness in my life far surpasses anything I could ever imagined for myself. We always have such a great time together. Here are a few pictures of our fun day at the zoo.

Cute Elephants.

Crocodiles freak me out!

Look at this beautful creature's sweet face!

There were signs everywhere to keep quiet. I guess the Giraffe's are easily spooked.

My Angel Boy and one of the male Giraffes.

The zoo train.

Neighborhood Block Party

2010-09-12T13:08:00.001-06:00

I guess one of the benefits of not having a fenced yard is that you can have a great neighborhood block party in two backyards.

Our neighborhood (street) had a block party yesterday. These are great because everyone is invited and it's good to catch up with people you don't see often and meet others that may have moved in recently.

A great little baseball game started up and all the boys played in our yard and had a great time.

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE where we live! We have a neighborhood full of kid's for Jake to play with and lots of great people around us. Life is great.

I love our flat, open backyard! So much fun to play games!

Optimism: What I've learned so far.

2010-09-07T10:31:00.006-06:00

Some people are naturally incurable optimists. I have not been blessed with this gift. I'm not wired that way. I wish I was. However, I am constantly striving to put aside my inherent negative attitude towards optimism. I have grown leaps and bounds in my quest. But alas, I am still a work in progress.

I have learned much in my journey. I've learned to set aside the negative thoughts and feelings that are almost second nature in my brain and leave them in the dust. I have learned to train my mind to think positively and try to pull out the positive in just about any situation.

There was a time that people who were inherently happy or optimistic annoyed me. I felt as if they lived in a fantasy world, they did not see the world around them. They did not see all the suffering. That's what I told myself anyway.

But in the last five years I have been enlightened. In my professional organizing business I work with people in every walk of life. I have worked with a woman in a double wide mobile home, a business owner worth tens of millions of dollars, and everyone in-between. A big part of my work is helping other people better themselves, clearing out clutter, creating a positive environment in their homes and businesses. Bringing them order, simplicity and peace of mind that comes with clearing out excess has changed me for the better.

In the process I have also learned how to clean out my own excess baggagee. My excess clutter is not in material things, but rather in emotions. I preach optimism, hope, and strength to follow that light at the end of the tunnel. I've watched lives transformed. I have had many clients write me extremely thoughtful and kind appreciation letters and e-mails that have humbled me and given me strength.

And in turn I have gained a new way of thinking, a new knowledge, and greater strength. How can I teach others how to clean out their excess if I did not clean out my own emotional and spiritual bucket?
So am I now the type of person now that thinks every thing's great, glass half-full, cup overflowing? Not completely but getting there. I have now have many of these wonderful glass half full days than ever before.

Those days can be as simple as my husband and son laughing and we are all together. They are my piece of heaven on earth. Those dark days still come around but they are few and far between. So I would say I am still a realist but an optimistic realist.

The remarkable thing about this process is the amount of anger and frustration that has literally been lifted from my soul. I rarely let anything get to me. I strive hard when there are situations where someone treats me or my family rudely, or I may take something someone has said who had good intentions, the wrong way. I think about their point of view or point of reference, rather than how the delivery of the comment was presented, which is much easier than becoming defensive or taking offense. I find myself a calmer, kinder person. I will still freely bear someone elses burdens when asked to or prompted to do so, but I will no longer allow it to dictate my life.

Who am I to take on such a task of trying to will others to make good choices? Who am I to think I had the power to change them? Only the Savior has the power. So I've relinquished taking ownership in other people's problems, and it has been a wonderful freeing experience. Will I still help those who are in need of comfort? Absolutely. Well I bear other is burdens that are worth bearing? Without question. While I have compassion for those who for whatever reason continue to make the same mistakes over and over hoping for different results? You better believe it. What I will no longer do is ingest it, dissect it, or make it my mission in life to help others who will not help themselves.

Bearing these burdens and trying to "fix" poeple who didnt really want the help, have wasted a lot of my time that I could have spent improving myself and doing good for other people and my family.

This is also brought me much peace and brought me much closer to the Savior. It helps me understand the plan of salvation and our divine purpose in this life.

I know part of this journey towards ultimate optimism is for my son Jacob and his brother and sister who are waiting to join our family in Ghana. I feel the growth that I have gained in the last year has maybe surpassed any time in my life. Increasing my faith and putting my trust in God has been a life changing experience. Jeff and I have commented about the little miracles and help we've received along this journey towards bringing our children home to us. I would not trade the life lessons I have learned this year for anything.

So I trudge on, gaining an absorbing as much new knowledge as I can along the way. And being grateful for the knowledge of loving Heavenly Father who knows me personally, and knows what is best for me and my family. I hope my optimism is contagious, and you put your trust and faith in Him and gain this knowledge also.

Fried Green Tomatoes and Fantastic Ribs from Chef Richard

2010-09-05T15:20:00.008-06:00

Makes me hungry just looking at them!!! Yummo!

We've had a fun summer with my brother and his family living so close to us. I have never had anyone live just 3 miles from where we live. Not only is it great to have a go to family member in an emergency that's really close by, it's been fun to collaborate on dinners and other fun things.

Anyone who knows my brother Rich well knows that he is a masterful cook on the BBQ grill. The man could easily have his own restaurant. Over Labor Day weekend we collaborated and had ribs, fried green tomatoes and a few other scrumptious food selections to say goodbye to summer.

It has been a while since I've made some fried green tomatoes. Jeff spent two years in Alabama and has raved about how good they were. I did not have super, super green tomatoes, they were more of a greenish yellow tomato. Nonetheless, they turned out scrumptious and were fantastic with the delectable ribs which he grilled. And the best part was all CALORIE FREE! Lol! I wish!

A lot of people have commented to me that I am a good cook. I don't own that but I do seem to have a knack in the kitchen. My waistline is an indicator of this. So I'll use skinny mini girls who wish you could cook, beware. You will have a greater chance of remaining thin if you do not learn to be a better cook!

Fun at the Antelope Island Stampede

2010-09-04T12:17:00.008-06:00

Sometimes I forget that I live by a Great Salty Lake and just 20 minutes away from an Island.

This year we decided to check out the Antelope Island Stampede which goes on during Labor Day. They have hot air balloons and professional kite flyers as well as lots of food and entertainment out on the island. We had heard about this event the last couple years and decided we would take a look and see what was out there.

The Stampede itself was a bit of a bust, but we made the best of it. I found it interesting with so many sponsors and so much hype that it was not better organized (my brain just goes there). The majority of the festivities were held at White Rock Bay which is on the west side of the island. The water has receded so much that you have to hike out to stick your feet in the salty water. We did not get a chance to do that this time.. Jake and his cousin Richy had a great time doing on the activities and Jake won a prize during one of the trivia contests. The unfortunate part of that prize was that they were cinnamon and sugar roasted almonds which were polished off by yours truly by the end of the day. My thighs grow in size just thinking about it.

Over the years I have come to appreciate the beauty of the desert landscape. Antelope Island is no exception. Although I prefer the lush shades of green in the Northwest, I have come to love my desert home.

While we enjoyed the festivities on the bay, the best part was being on the east side of the island at the Fielding Garr Ranch. They taught the boys how to rope and there was a bunch of historical homes and information regarding what the state use the island for. While driving to the ranch we also saw several herds of buffalo and we got to see the landscape of the Wasatch Mountains across the lake to the east to which we call home.

The jury is still out as to whether we will return next year. We missed out on watching the hot air balloons because the launch was early in the morning and then later in the evening with fireworks, but it was still a fun day to see something different. Another successful "staycation" for the Isom family.

These two think they are comedians! It's fun to have them such good friends!

Jake's prize that added several inches to my thighs.

Jake, climbing the wall. He did great till he looked down.

White Rock Bay. See what I mean by dessert beauty?

Since I such a history buff, I liked visiting the ranch the most.

The view of the Wasatch Range from Feilding Garr Ranch on Antelope Island

Jake is such a poser!

A professional roper teaching Jake how to Lasso. So much fun!

Fun little Museum. People lived out here in the 1940's and 50's.

Three tired boys at the end of the day. Love them!

Did you know there are no rattle snakes on Antelope Island? Neither did I. There are some fun hikes we'd like to go back to do and take our bikes.

Another view of the Ogden / Layton Mountains right before we got back on the Causeway to go home. I love the reflection of the mountains in the lake. Gorgeous!

Baby Shower for my one of my Besties

2010-09-03T11:40:00.015-06:00

Love, love, love this girl!

If you know one of my very good friends Amber Hill, you know she has had quite a year. She and her husband Gary were blessed with five sweet love girls. Last November 2009 their little Gracie who was just 15 months old, died after complications from an accident in their yard.

Words cannot describe the heartache that Jeff and I have felt for these two close friends of ours. Jeff has known Gary since high school, and I have been friends with Amber since college.

I have watched the spirit of the Lord comfort them, but this year has still been a very hard one for them. Thankfully, Amber does not have any problems getting pregnant. After five girls she is pregnant with their very first little boy. Thomas is due in a few weeks. Amber's ward members decided to throw her a surprise baby shower. Amber sister April, was kind enough to include me in the surprise.

What generous and lovely women these ladies are. They showered her with love and gifts and all things BOY. I imagine this is a very bittersweet time for their family. In some ways it is a blessing that they are having a boy so everything is different than when they had Gracie, and in other ways it is probably hard because it is so different.

What a gift we have with the knowledge of the plan of salvation. I've worked with many nonbelievers who have lost a loved one and I can tell you this; those who have the knowledge of being with their families in the eternities fair far better than those who do not have this knowledge. Here are a few pictures of the festivities:

Lots of cute boy clothes!

An overachiever made this adorable cookie.

Amber's cute sisters! Love them!

Uncle Grant's Funeral

2010-08-29T16:35:00.000-06:00

It was a beautiful day for a funeral. Clear skies and not too hot. There was a terrible rain storm the night before so we were worried that it might be rainy for the funeral. Here are a few Pict's from the graveside service and dinner afterwards.

He was buried next to my Grandparents at Leavitts Altorest in Ogden

(from the right) Ally Cox, Shauna Wood Cox, Aunt Valeen Wood, Rachel Cox

Some cutie cousins!

Katie Clark and Valeen Wood

Grant's Casket, very tasteful and classy

Jake and his Great Uncle Merrill. Jake loved him instantly. Uncle Merrill stayed with us overnight before the funeral.

Uncle Leon, Peggy, & Heather

Chip Cox, Shauna Cox, & Aunt Valeen Wood

Sweetie Lily

Cousin Harlan Clark and my Daddio (Brent)

Saying Goodbye to Another Family Member

2010-08-24T23:55:00.010-06:00

Monday we learned that my Uncle Grant had passed away. He was eighty-four. He had suffered a long time with many health issues. My Aunt Valeen had kept him alive all these years with her unconventional holistic medicine. He had Spinabifida and Epilepsy just to name a few. Let me tell you about the Grant Wood I knew.

My Uncle Grant was one of the kindest, helpful, and thoughtful men I have ever known. Growing up my Dad's brothers and their familieds lived mostly outside of Utah. So when the Clark side of the family would get together, it would be with Uncle Grant and Aunt Valeen & their kids & Grandpa and Grandma Clark and our Family.

I remember vividly as a little girl going boating on their ski boat and going to the Yacht Club at Pineview Reservoir. Grant was also a Car man. He loved cars and was a successful salesmen for many years.

Grant loved to work with his hands. He built an amazing deck on their house in Ogden that spanned the whole length of the house. I fondly remember cookouts on that deck, with the sounds of the creek and a bird's eye view of Mount Ogden. Great Memories.

Grant also was a budding artist. Grant painted the things he loved, including several pictures of his sweetheart Valeen. He was especially good at Landscapes and Nature Scenes.

Grant above all was the consummate gentleman. And the original GQ man. Always dressed to the hilt with a swagger only he could pull off.

He had a great sense of humor and put up with all of us (my brothers and sister). We sure love you Uncle Grant and you will be missed.

Here is his Obituary:

Grant C. Wood returned to live with his Heavenly Father on August 23, 2010. Grant was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho November 18, 1925 to Rulon Samuel Wood and Lorena Call Wood. He was sealed for time and eternity to his eternal companion, Valeen Clark Wood, 63 years ago on September 4, 1947 in the Salt Lake Temple. He had two children, Clark Grant Wood (deceased) and Shauna Wood Cox. He had 7 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson. He is also survived by 2 brothers, Dennis Wood and Lavor Wood.

Grant lived in Ogden, Utah most of his life. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Ogden Waterfall Canyon Ward. He attended Weber State College, and served as Student Body Treasurer and was a member of the Symphonic Choir. He and Valeen belonged to the Ogden Pineview Yacht Club and enjoyed spending their leisure time boating for over 40 years. He also belonged to the Kiwanis Club of Ogden.

He volunteered for many years as part of the Weber County Jeep Patrol and Boat Patrol volunteering many hours of time on search and rescue missions.

Grant worked at the family business, Wood Motor Co. until 1967. He went to work at Ken Garff Mercedes dealership for 19 years.

Grant was a very talented and gifted artist. He enjoyed music and performed with the Beehive Statesmen Barbershop Chorus for 21 years. He belonged to and performed with the Men of Song for 6 years. He spent his retirement years studying art and painting.

Funeral Services will be held at Leavitt’s Mortuary, Saturday, August 28. There will be a viewing at 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

Interment Leavitt’s Aultorest Memorial Park

Staycation No. 2: Snowbird Sky Resort

2010-08-14T23:21:00.019-06:00

For those of you who don't know, I am a certified Mountain Mama. I love the fresh air and the prestine magestic cliffs and gorgeous mountain lakes. I love to smell the pines and get my feet sore walking on a trail. I love the wildflowers and the rocky hills. Don't get me wrong, I love the beach and the salt air. But I would have to say I am the happiest when I am in the Mountians. The perfect home for me would be where I could see the mountains and the beach at the same time. Unfortunatly all those places are way out of our price range, but hey, a girl can dream.

I also feel closer to God. Although I don't know where heaven is exactly, one cannot deny the artistry of our Creator as he has painted his canvas of the Rocky Mountain range. Gazing toward the snow capped peaks and rugged rock formations, one can only drink in it's loveliness as it surrounds you.

Now back to the ranch ( I get a LITTLE carried away). With our funds limited due to the adoption, we planned a couple of staycations locally so we at least did a few fun things in the summer with Jake. This activity was probably my favorite. Now onto the pictures!

Ready to Rock and Roll on the Trampolines

See what I mean? Could you find a nicer spot for lunch???

If I can get the video to load, Jake taught himself how to do back flips while jumping. He LOVED it!

Heading up the tram. I try to stay disracted so I don't puke since I am so afraid of Heights.

Some of the gorgeous wildflowers at the top

Walking through the Peruvian Tunnel. In the Winter the Skiers hook onto a Conveyor Belt that takes them literally through a mountain ridge. Very cool!

More Pict's of the tunnel.

The Family at the top with the Albion Basin in the background

A look down into the Salt Lake Valley

Jake ready for his first solo Alpine Slide Ride. NO FEAR!

He was so excited to go down a few times.

There he goes!

We finished off the day at the Mayan in Murray and watched the Cliff Jumpers dive into the pool. The food there is still just nasty. The cliff diving must be the ONLY thing keeping it open.

Super FUN Day! Yay for Staycations! Cross your fingers and maybe, just maybe, I will be able to upload some video.

Homecoming for Elder and Sister Clark

2010-08-09T00:51:00.002-06:00

My Uncle Lean and Aunt Peggy Clark have been serving an LDS mission in the Washington DC area for the last year and a half. Their homecoming was today in Riverton. They both gave a wonderful, spiritual account of the experiences of their missions.

They had a nice meal afterwards and I got to chat with their daughters, my cousins. These girls grew up in Southern California so I did not see them very often but we have a bond and a closeness that is amazing. I love these girls!

From the right: Me, Sharon Jackson, Kristen Clark & Heather Petersen

Me and Heather, on of three cousins my age.

Sam, Sam the ladies Man!

2010-08-07T19:03:00.001-06:00

My cousin Shannon Thompson recenlty had a shower for her upcoming wedding. Lisa and her girls came with us along with the adorable Samuel.

My cousin Katie came in a short time later and Sam was walking around exploring. When he saw Katie's little girl right around his age he couldn't help himself. He wrapped his arms around her and starting kissing her. We'd pull them apart and he kept going back for more. It was a riot! Sammy definetly won't be afraid to go after what he wants in life! It will be fun to see him grow and get to know who he is. Love you Sam, Sam.

Congrats to the Sorensen's

2010-07-20T11:53:00.003-06:00

Well it looks like Linda (Jeff's sister) finally got her wish. Anna was born on July 19th and she came out with brown hair, olive skin and is the spittin image of her pretty Mom. Linda and Shane have 2 other daughters that are also adorable and look very much like their daddy Shane. They are both blond and blue eyed cuties. Congrats to Linda and Shane and the girls, we love you!

Wow, to look that good without make-up, how would it be???

I think she looks a little like her Great Grandma Black :)

Elder and Sister Isom the Skypers

2010-07-15T22:25:00.001-06:00

Jeff's Mom and Dad have been serving in the Vancouver, BC mission since November of 2009. They stay in touch with us with Skype. I could resist snapping a picture while we were talking to them a while back. We are so grateful for the blessings we are receiving because of their service. We'll see you in May of 2011!

What do we do we swim, swim, swim!

2010-07-14T22:32:00.001-06:00

Jake, Maddy and Rich all had swimming lessons at the same swim school this summer. Jake is still very afraid of keeping his head under watert for very long. I was the same way until at least his age and I am still not real keen on it as an adult. Jake had great fun and made friends as always. He loves the water and my hope is he will be able to swim like a fish!

Beautiful Backyard for a Pool!

Staycation No. 1 Boondocks vs. Lagoon??? Boondocks Wins!!!

2010-07-11T11:22:00.006-06:00

Since our funds are super tight these days with paying for our adoption, we set aside a little money to go to do several fun things over the summer with Jake. We gave him the choice for us to either go to Boondocks or Lagoon. Jeff and I both had season passes to Lagoon as teenagers and well, to put it bluntly, Lagoon is not a shiny happy place for us. We would have gone for our boy, but we were needless to say thrilled he chose The Boondocks over Lagoon.

We made a day / evening of it. We had an early dinner there in the restaurant in the fun center and then we did anything Jake wanted to do. It was a fun night and I love that we always have so much fun together. Here are my favorite Pict's of the night.

Jake had NO mercy on the water boats. Just ask Jeff!

Calculating his next move.

I get rather competitive playing Guitar Hero. And I am not afraid to dance. Jeff had to leave while Jake and I rocked out. We embarrassed him! Party Pooper.

Jake getting ready to put the pedal to the medal

Look at him go! Wahoo!

My all time FAVORITE Arcade game Skee Ball. Dropped the ball in the $10k hole quite a few times.

Anything is fun to do when I am with my two best guys!

The Papers are in Ghana

2010-07-07T23:54:00.001-06:00

I realize this stack of 300 pages of paper means nothing to you, but it means the WORLD to us. This is 3 months of blood (lots of paper cuts) sweat (Jeff's fingers do not fingerprint well) and tears (frustration, anger, anxiety,etc.)!!!!

My head aches thinking of how to explain to you all the information that it in this stack of papers and the time and money it cost to put it together. I had to make 5 copies of 80 pages. 2 of those copies had to be notarized. One of the originals, and one that was a copy of the original document with a letter stating that it was an actual copy. I FedEx'd this package last week to DC to a courier who took it to the Ghanaian Embassy. I was told today the the Dossier (which is all this paperwork) has arrived in Ghana. YIPPEE! Now we have another issue and this is the worst for me; We wait. God must have known I needed this trial in patience so that I will be a stronger person. Thanks to all of you who have been praying and continue to pray for us. We need your prayers, we feel your prayers, and we are grateful. Stay tuned.

The 4th of July Weekend Spectacular

2010-07-06T00:03:00.000-06:00

I have decided that Independance Day should be changed to Independence Weekend. Since the 4th of July was on Sunday, their were festivities in our area from Friday through Monday. We certainly did not miss out on the action ourselves.

Since Jeff's parents are on an LDS mission, we spent the weekend with friends and had a party at my brother Rich's on Sunday. Since he has a 1/2 acre lot we had a blast playing Wiffle Ball and tossing the ball around. We roated marshmellows in his firepit and had some fantastic burgers and dogs by Master Grill Ricardo (Rich).

Here are some picts of the events.

Chew'in the fat with the Fam. The girl on the far right annouced she was pregnant after almost 7 years of marriage and it's a GIRL.

The Piest de la Resistance! My homemade pies. Banana Cream and Key Lime. Yummo!
I love making pies! I love they are so festive!

The Jake man up to bat. He hit a good one.

What I LOVED about this day was that everyone played wiffle ball. My Mom and Dad even got in the action which was so much fun and all the grandkids loved it. My parent's have never been the type to sit on the sidelines, they just jump right in and I am so glad for that example.

BEAD MIS-HAP......What a world!

I brought my beads over to make earings for my niece Maddie who had recently pierced her ears and the container with the beads gaveway and spilled all over the floor. So just like a bratty brother, Rich took pictures instead of helped. Some things never change. I still love the big booger anyway.

More Partying on the 5th

On the 5th we went to the Layton City Parade, The Burger Stop for some grub, and The kid's carnival. Parents were very worn out; kid's not so much.

The Parade

Ricardo's Family (Minus Kate) at the Burger Stop

Little Rich on the Climbing Wall

Jake and Little Rich boxing eachother with the BIG gloves

Endless Slides

How could a Carnival be complete without Face Painting?

That night we were all but partied out. We lit the rest of the Fireworks and went to bed early.

Glow Man

Me and Lis, I love that girl! Forget the word "in-law" she's my sister period!

Sammy LOVES the toy Lawnmower

Pretty Maddy in her new earrings.

Another step closer to the Prize

2010-06-28T21:53:00.002-06:00

Yesterday we went down to the Utah State Capital to get what they call a "Authentication" with our Power of Attourney Document . We had to have the original Authenticated at the Secretary of State level. This document will separate from our dossier, but nothing can move forward without it.

We had to go to the lieutenant governor's office to obtain this authentication. So we made an adventure out of it and showed around Jake the Utah Capital building. We paid an extra $60 for each document that needed to be authenticated for them to expedite it that day rather than wait over a week for processing. The receipt was correct and we went home and I stupidly "assumed" the rest of it must be right as well (not following my own rules). When we got home I realized that they had not given me the correct documentation. The girl did not listen to me when I tried to explain the difference. The Lt. Governor's office remedied the problem the next day and I had to drive all the way back down there to get the right documentation. The state also refunded me $120 because the documents were not expedited. What floored me was it took the woman less than five minutes to produce the correct form. The fleecing of America, I tell you! Anyway, it's done and the docs are almost ready to be on their way. I will be dancing in the streets when all this is done, signed sealed, and delivered and on it's way to Ghana, Africa.

Jake loved the Grand Rotunda!

Perfect summer day in Utah

I have a picture of me on the old lion that they replaced. These lions cleary state you must stay off of them.

We had to climb to the third floor, Jake has to see it all. Love all the murals depecting the Native Americans, Lewis and Clark, and the Pioneers. I love the rich heritage of this land.

Cousins Moving Closer

2010-06-20T17:17:00.005-06:00

The month of June is a crazy one. We've been helping my brother Rich and his family moved from Salt Lake City to West Kaysville .They live almost approximately 3 miles south of us, which we LOVE!!!!We have never had cousins so close or any family or close for that matter . It's a great!

Maddy is Jake's cousin who is closest to him at age. They are about six months apart. Here are a few random pictures of them moving in June.

Sammy LOVED all the boxes

Got Peanuts?

Ricardo and Ricardo Jr. Classic Pic

Kate, Maddy & Richy on their new tramp in their new HUGE back yard.

My CRAZY bro. Ricardo

We have loved having them close to us for a variety of reasons. It's been fun to throw dinners together and have impromptu desert night and play dates and just have another family member to do something with that is close and wants to hang with us.

IN LOVING MEMORY

2010-05-31T09:14:00.001-06:00

Annually Jeff, Jacob and I make our annual pilgrimage to honor those who have gone before us and honor all the brave men and women who have died so this country can remain free. We missed last year, I can't remember why but we missed going for some reason. We travel around 100 miles roundtrip and travel as far south as Sandy, UT and as far north as Ogden, UT. We make a day of it and bring along sandwiches to eat in the car and talk about the memories we have of those passed on to Jake. Kind of a memorandum /genealogy lesson all wrapped into one long day. He was a good boy the majority of the day.

The Beautiful Salt Lake Cementary

The beautiful Murray / Sandy UT Mountains

Delroy and Elida Isom

Grandma & Grandpa Black's Grave

Jake finding a tree to climb and Grandma & Grandpa Black's Grave

The Gorgeous Ogden, UT Mountains

Minne & Dewey Fronk (my great-grandparents on my Mother's side)

The Marker for Cousin Austin Jones Grave (his burial was about 2 weeks ago)

Grandma Janice Jones and Uncle Scott Jones

Uncle Tom Jones

At the Leavitt's Altorest in Ogden where my Grandma and Grandma Clark are buried there was a beautiful tribute to fallen soldiers that was breathtaking as the sun started to set. I am so grateful to be in this free land and the freedom's we enjoy. I will do all I can to make sure these freedoms NEVER are taken away from us. Below are some pictures of the day.

Grandma and Grandpa Clark's Grave

May we NEVER Forget!

Fundraiser Success!!!!!

2010-05-24T14:28:00.000-06:00

At last!I am making a mad dash to update this poor pathetic blog.To say I have been busy in the last eight weeks, would be a gross understatement. Insane would be the only way to truly describe how things have been around here.

How did our garage sale fundraiser go, you ask? It went well, and exceeded our expectations. No, we don't have near the money we need to complete her adoption, but every little bit helps.

Forecast for the two days was severe rain. Friday ended up being a near perfect day and the rain started to pour down on us just as we were putting things away. Saturday morning was rainy early on before we started the fundraiser, and we have 2 1/2 hours of beautiful sun before the torrential rains came again. We moved everything in the garage and kept going. God's infinite grace has contiually plays a role in our journey.

What is continually amazing to me is those who give of themselves so freely to support us, and help us with this arduous task. The good Lord is in all the details and has touched so many people. We have felt and seen goodness beyond description. Our lives are changed forever.Jeff and I have vowed to be a stalwart when it comes to service and helping others. Whether or not it is convenient for us will never be an issue, we know of the blessings of serving others, and others serving us. I do not believe you can truly understand charity at its finest unless you give it and allow others to serve you to receive it. To accept service does not mean you are weak, it means that you fully understand the pure love of our Savior Jesus Christ. I urge anyone has not served and especially allowed others to serve them, to engage in this beautiful metaphor of giving and receiving. It is truly phenomenal.Below is a small slideshow of all the peopl who either came and supported us by buying something, or came and helped.

We were overwhelmed by how many people donated items for the garage sale. We had a 14 or 15 tables  full of items to sell. Now you all now I pride myself in being very organize as it is the trade that I work in, these skills were greatly put to the test in organizing this fundraiser. Now done it and very successfully pulled it off. One more large task to check offo of my list.

Special thanks go to: Teri, Trudy, & Vanessa, who manned the tables Friday morning as it was necessary for Jeff and I to head down to Salt Lake to obtain fingerprints for an adoption form (I-600A for those of you who know international adoption jargin) and if we canceled this randomly scheduled appointment, it could easily put us back a month or two. So we marched on the fundraiser starting at 11 AM. We were there by 10:30 AM and at least 30 people were already there shopping.  It's great to know that you have family and friends you can trust to represent in your behalf and are happy in doing so.

We are indebted to all of you. We hope there are enough Sundays left this year to invite all those who gave of their time,talents or came to support and shop, for homemade ice cream at the Isom's on Sunday night.    Give us a call what Sunday you would like to come and we'll make it happen!

The Garage Sale will continue today despite the rain. Everything MUST go!

2010-05-22T06:49:00.000-06:00

The garage sale continues today in our garage and on our porch!! EVERTHING MUST GO!!! Amazing Prices and PLENTY of good stuff left. FREE cookies and lemonade. COME ON OVER!

Can't make it??? Donate online!! Even a dollar makes a huge difference!

DONATE NOW! Even a DOLLAR makes a difference!!!! Online Adoption Donation Fundraiser & Garage Sale this weekend!!!

2010-05-21T06:08:00.000-06:00

In conjuction with our garage sale fundraiser this weekend, we are also having a online donation fundraiser as well. You can donate by clicking on the upper right hand corner through paypal. Even ONE DOLLAR makes a difference. Thanks for your support, you have no idea how much even the littlest donation means to us! God Bless.

~The Isom Family

Rain or Shine our Old & New Garage Fundraiser will Go Forward

2010-05-18T21:17:00.000-06:00

Greetings!! Since the newspaper ads leave us so little space to tout what we have available for purchase here is a more complete list of some the items for sale:

WHAT'S OLD & USED:

Patio Furniture

Picnic Table

Padded Rocking Chair

32 inch and 22 inch working Television Sets (with HD converter or regular cable / satellite service)

Twin Size Wood Headboard, Footboard, and rails (in great shape)

Wall Paintings

Picture Frames

Wall Mirrors

Norman Rockwell Collector Plates

Rare Books

Adult Books

Cookbooks

Children's Books

Wood Shelves

Women's Name Brand Clothing & Shoes (Gap, Calvin Cline, Old Navy, Ralph Lauren)

Wedding Dress Size 10-12

Women's Navy Suit, Women's Black Blazer

Men's Name Brand Clothing & Shoes (Gap, Old Navy, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hillfiger)

Men's Dress Slacks & Ties

Girl / Boy Name Brand Clothing & Shoes (Gap, Old Navy, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hillfiger, The Children's Place, Gymboree)

Infant and Toddler Clothing and Shoes Boy & Girl (Gap, Old Navy, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hillfiger, The Children's Place, Gymboree, Carters)

Holiday Decorations (Some never even opened)

Blankets (Infant, afgans, wool, comforters, knits)

Board Games and Puzzles

DVD's, CD's, VHS, DS Games

Home Décor

Toys for all ages

Adult Bikes, Children's Bikes

Infant Furniture and Strollers.

Kitchenware, Glassware

Clocks

And much, much more

WHAT'S NEW

Mini Craft Boutique:

Watch Bracelets

Earrings

Necklaces

Bracelets

Children's Jewelry

Vinyl Letters

Infant Gifts

Handmade Blankets

Home Décor

And more!

ORGANIZING PRODUCTS (MOST OF THEM NEW)

Storage Bins

Turntables

Snapware

Drawer Dividers

File Folders

Manilla Folders

Organizing Books

Paper Organization Binders

Shelves

Magazine Holders

Labels

and more!

NO EARLY BIRDS!!!

DATES OF FUNDRAISER: FRIDAY, MAY 21^st @11:00 am to 3:00 pm

SATURDAY, MAY 22^nd @9:00 am to 3:00 pm

ADDRESS: 414 SOUTH 1125 WEST, LAYTON

DIRECTIONS HEADING SOUTH: (From Ogden): Take the LAYTON, UT /HILL FIELD ROAD exit, EXIT 331. Turn RIGHT onto W HILL FIELD RD/UT-232. Continue to follow W HILL FIELD RD. Turn LEFT onto SUGAR ST. (West of Sam's Club and over the Railroad Tracks) Turn RIGHT onto W GENTILE ST. Turn LEFT onto S ANGEL ST. Turn LEFT onto W 345 S. W 345 S becomes S 1125 W.414 S 1125 W is on the RIGHT

DIRECTIONS HEADING NORTH: (From Salt Lake): Take KAYSVILLE, UT exit 328 /UT-273. Turn left at W 200 N .Turn right at N Angel St .Turn right at W 345 S. 345 S Becomes 1125 West. 414 S 1125 W is on the RIGHT.

Questions???? Give us a call at: 801-593-9566.
Ask for Linda or Jeff.

I want to be a Missionary Now.

2010-05-16T15:53:00.000-06:00

Thanks to our neighbors, the Petersens who cleared out some of the sod they had for a new basketball standard, we were able to use their grass to fix a couple of spots on our lawn we have not been able to choke the prairie grass out of. I bet it save us about 50 bucks. Even the little financial blessings right now are so apreciated.

Since I have been still plagued with the bulging discs in my neck and back, I was not a great help to Jeff who was shouldering most of the load.

The LDS missionaires, Elder Chidister from San Diego and Elder Conrad from Ohio came up riding up on their bikes and asked if they could help. Jeff brushed them off and said thanks but one of the missionaires was really persisitant (Elder Chidister). I felt like they really wanted to get their hands dirty (and shirts) and for some reason needed to take the time to help us.

Jake thought it was super cool. Because of his request to us to read all the books of scripture in our church before he is baptised in October (we are done, we are now reading them for a second time), he is facinated by missionaries and missionary work. They may as well be movie stars in his mind.

Jake is a sensitive soul. These missionairies brought the spirit with them and worked hard. He begged them not to leave but they did have another appointment. I hope JAke choses to be a missionary and experience what serving the Lord full time has to offer him.

You're a Grand Ol' Flag

2010-05-13T11:14:00.000-06:00

Jake participated in a great patriotic program thisyear and his first grade class. They learned a bunch of great patriotic songs and dances. Jake is one big hambone!!!He has pretty good rhythm which is shocking considering both of his parents struggled finding their rhythm. Here are some pictures and a small video of the performance. Sure love this kid!!!

You're a grand Old Flag!

God Bless America!

Jake's Patriotic Essay

Austin Quinton Jones 1986 -2010

2010-05-12T08:55:00.001-06:00

It's been a sad week around here as we learned on Saturday morning of the passing of my cousin Austin Jones. He was 24 years old. His Dad died almost ten years ago in the fall at the age of 41. Seems like too much grief for one family to bear, yet they trudge on, their testimonies strengthen and they rejoice in the day when they are together again. Austin has had a hard ten years fighting his own demons. I am grateful he is now free of those demons and is at peace and with his Dad.

There was a time that I thought if a tragic death were to happen in my life, I may not return to church or question my faith so much that I would not believe in the hereafter. I know now that if I did this, it would only be to my detriment and I would be in much worse shape than increasing my faith and testimony. I have watched several close to me this past year suffer tragic death in their lives. Each time they have increased their faith and testimony and the Lord has poured out his tender mercies upon their lives. The pain is still there and a lot of hard days…….But the "sting" of death that I have watched envelope and paralyze others who did not know the surety of the plan of salvation and forever families, is not there. God is waiting to comfort and carry you through dark hours such as these if you are open to receive his love.

Austin was a cutie pie as a kid, he was 10 years younger than me and I remember vividly when he was a toddler and lived in Bountiful for a time. He always had a trick up his sleeve and a grin on his face that always told you he was up to something mischievous. Even then his capacity to love others was prevalent. When Scot and Katie were fed up with their older sister Holley and she ended up crying, Austin would be the one to comfort her and try to bring people together. He was always genuine and generous with his love.

Although I did not know him much as an adult, I imagine he was still a peacemaker and kind to all. He is like his Dad in that way. Uncle Scott treated everyone the same whoever they were. He didn't care if they were a bum on the street or the Prince of England. Everyone was respected and treat with dignity and kindness.

I've lost three first cousins in my lifetime and one even before I was born. I've lost two uncles, an aunt, both grandmother's and my dear Grandpa Reuben. I've lost dear friends in tragic circumstance. As much as death still frightens me to some degree, I have a greater understanding that it is a part of life and one we all must face in one capacity or another.

So I try everyday to live life without regret. To do all I can to resolve conflicts and differences and make peace with those who are willing. I want at the conclusion of my life to be able to stand with the Savior and for him to say: "Well done thou good and faithful servant" and to be able to receive all the blessings as promised of living a good life. I hope to see you all there too!

You can read Austin's obituary here.

Got Junk??? Donate it to a good cause!

2010-05-10T23:32:00.000-06:00

Adoption Fundraiser: Old & New Garage Sale and Online Fundraiser

FYI, We are planning to have another adoption fundraiser on May 21st and 22nd. It will be an Old and New garage sale. I have some items left over from our fundraiser boutique we had in December, a bunch of organizing products I have never used that need to be liquidated, and a bunch of jewelry I have made. We also will have used furniture, clothing, and other items to sell for a very discounted price.

We are accepting donations until Wednesday May 18th, so if you plan on getting rid of something and donate it to the DI or another charitable organization, please let me know. Please do not feel like you need to donate something you are not planning to get rid of as you have already been so generous with your time and talents in our behalf. We are just asking to pass along things you are already planning on giving away that could be sold at a garage sale.

We have a lot of beautiful items donated that will be priced to sell. We don't want to have anything left on Saturday. EVERTHING MUST GO!! So come and shop if you have nothing to get rid of. You'll get a steal on everything!

In conjunction with the gargae sale we are also having a fundraiser online right here on our blog (upper right hand corner) where you can donate through Paypal. ANY donation is appreciated.

We are hoping this will be our last and final fundraiser before we go to Ghana.

Thank you in advance for anything you donate. We feel so privileged to be around such wonderful friends and family.

New Glasses for Jake

2010-05-06T15:32:00.000-06:00

I was so holding out hope that Jake would take after his Dad and not need glasses until he was in High School but alas, I knew he was falling in my footsteps when he told me he could not see the board when he sat at the back of the class.

We requested him to sit in the front of the class and then set up an eye appointment with our favorite optometrist.

Dr. Lincoln (Dygert) was thorough as always and much to the sadness to his Mom, Jake obviously needed glasses.

This is yet another bump, albeit a small bump, for Jake in his young life. After having eye and foot surgery when he was five, things have been good for him. His ability to be cheerful despite his adversity is inspiring to see.

He was a good sport about picking glasses and when we went to pick up the prescription and he cautiously put them on, it was bittersweet to watch him look at the world clearly. I remember that feeling and I now know how my Mom felt when I said to her after I got my glasses at the age of six (Jake is seven and a half) "I didn't know the mountains looked like that." It was like the world had had a bath and I was seeing it pristine and clean for the first time. Fortunately his eyesight is not near as bad at age seven as mine was at age six. Let's hope it stays that way.

Such a poser!

Off to school. So handsome, don't you think???

From Ethiopia to Ghana

2010-05-06T11:28:00.001-06:00

Random Ghana Orphans (Not ours)
Greetings Friends,

My apologies for taking so long to update this blog! To say we've been busy the last few months is an understatement. In fact, I don't know when we have ever been as busy as we are right now. Nonetheless, I promised updates, so here is one of several updates:

First off, yes we have changed countries from Ethiopia to Ghana.

In March while still on track to go with the Ethiopia program, we were informed of some major changes both on our government's side, but the changes for Ethiopia as well. The biggest change with Ethiopia was the government was seriously considering mandating that the adoptive parents to travel to Ethiopia twice. Previously there was a representative from our adoption agency, with Power of Attorney for our first court date in the country so we were not required to be present. Ethiopia was "thinking" of changing this but our agency was not aware of when they would get around to doing it. Jeff and I crunched the numbers for going to Ethiopia twice, our lodging, and plane tickets. The additional costs for going to Ethiopia twice looked like it would be around $10k. $10k on top of the $30k we were already budgeting for the full cost of the adoption. So total cost would be closer to $40k, an additional $10,000 we had not budgeted for.

Along with this, the US government changed their policy on International Adoptions. Here is the official statement from the U.S. State Department: "The Department of State shares families' concerns about recent media reports alleging direct recruitment of children from birth parents by adoption service providers or their employees. In response to these reports, the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa has implemented some changes to adoption visa processing. Adoptive parents should be aware that an I-604 (Determination on Child for Adoption, sometimes referred to as "orphan investigation") must be completed in connection with every I-600 application. Depending on the circumstances of the case, this investigation may take up to several weeks or even months to complete. Therefore, adoptive parents should not plan to travel to Ethiopia until they have confirmed with their adoption agency that their visa interview appointment has been confirmed." So in a nutshell it means that each adoption would need to be investigated by the U.S. government. Although we do believe this is a good action concerning recent events of Americans trying to adopt children internationally albeit illegally, it was a lot to take an in one setting.

Compounded with this, we were sent referrals of children each week. Beautiful, sweet, lovely children who just wanted a home and family. We viewed orphan brothers and sisters, who in order to be adopted, had made the agonizing decision that they would split up if it meant that they would each be able to have a family. These children who were making th decisions were only seven or eight years old. An unbelievable task for someone so young.
Day after day we looked into all those ebony brown eyes and saw their beautiful white smiles, despite the hand which they have been dealt, and our hearts ached for these children. The overwhelming sense of responsibility to take care of the orphaned as we Christians believe, has never struck me so deeply as it has the last few months. We inquired about numerous little boys; unfortunately the website was not quick in removing children whose adoptions for pending or has already gone through. Needless to say, we prayed, pondered about each little boy that we were interested in. The overwhelming task of picking just one was very difficult for us.

Our home study was approved in late March early April. The high court ruling in Ethiopia came back right around this time indicating they were going to mandate the adoptive parents to travel twice. All during this journey we have felt the hand of God leading us. With this ruling was set in stone, and our lack of confirmation regarding which child to adopt, both Jeff and I were very uneasy about pressing forward for the first time. We knew we were still to adopt, that confirmation was sure. We felt like we needed to regroup and seek further inspiration and knowledge from our Heavenly Father.

The first fast Sunday in April we, (all three of us) fasted for two specific things: First off, that the Lord would lead us and give us direction as to how to come up with the additional funds. Secondly, we fasted and prayed that when the time came to choose a child, we would get the confirmation that he was supposed to be with our family.

As with other things in life, the inspiration did not come right away, but a day later. Monday night as we were getting ready for bed, and I was sifting through a bunch of pictures of children who needed to be adopted, we started talking things over, Ghana was brought up by both of us several times. When we discussed the possibly changing adoptive countries to Ghana, a wave of peace came over both of us. Knowing Jeff as long as I have, and having the privilege of feeling the spirit of God fill our hearts and touch our souls countless times over the years, no words needed to be exchanged, we were both feeling the same peace and assurance.

So as we said our prayers that night and knelt together and prayed, we asked the Lord if Ghana was where our son was. Again the same peacful feeling washed over us.

Over the next few days, I spoke with our adotpion agency who also does adoptions in Ghana, and got the information and details. Because we were in the beginnings of the Ethiopian Dossier, switching over was not too difficult. We made the final decision later that week. Ghana was where we were supposed to be. The financial costs were also more in align with what we had budgeted for but certainly not the deciding factor of the change.

The country of Ghana has its own set of challenges. But the urgency and excitement to get our little boy here, to be with us, has not only returned, but accelerated.

In Ghana there are 1,000,000+ orphans in a country of 20 million with a land mass the size of the state of Oregon. Due to economic hardships many orphaned child's extended family is not able to take them in, leaving children and sometimes toddlers to fend for themselves on the streets. All of the children eligible are age 2 ½ years and up. Babies from time to time, but this is not an infant adoption program. There are many sibling sets. Most older children speak some English. All children are tested for HIV, Hepatitis B & C and are generally healthy. Medical information, photos and social history provided, in English to all adoptive families. Education is another common factor. In many countries, birth control is not widely offered nor is it taught in the family, community or in school. Birth mothers also can lack education on how to parent a child or have the capability to earn a living wage to support the child. So education can play a large part in children becoming available for international adoption.

In some situations, when a birth mother does become pregnant she may be shunned by both her family and her community. Many times this leads to desperate situations that force a birth parent to either abandon or relinquish their child.

Sadly, there are other factors that create orphans, war, worldwide famine, and drought and in some countries the AIDS epidemic has also created a need for adoptive parents.

The Adoption Process in Ghana:
Once your Dossier is completed (we are SO close!!!), our Adoption Agency will ship it to Ghana. We will be matched with a child in need of a family according to our terms which are: A boy between the ages of 2 to 4 with no special needs. A Ghanaian Social Welfare Officer picks our child or "referral" (as they are referred to) within our specifications. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of a particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child. Although this may seem a limiting it to some people, we are happy the child will chosen for us. The stress of trying deciding which one was to come to our home was overwhelming.

After the Dossier and the child's paperwork are sent to the Ghana Social Welfare Department, our Attorney will file the adoption petition with the High Court in Ghana. The High Court will award a 2 year interim adoption and our Attorney will file for permission to take the child out of Ghana. This child will become a permanent alien in the United States with a social security number, and we will become permanent Guardians until the adoption is final. There have been times when the high court has issued an adoption without the waiting period but it is not likely. To date we know of no children who have been taken away from families after the two years. Once we wait the two years, an attorney appointed by the adoption agency will represent us in Ghana for the final adoption two years after the interim adoption is granted.
Although all of this is subject to change, regardless we feel so prompted to press forward.

Yesterday it I wrote on my facebook wall: "It takes a village to adopt a child." We are so grateful for our little village. We cannot fully express the gratitude we have for those of you who have chosen to participate in the joy of this amazing journey. Because we are following what God has directed us to do, I have never felt closer to Him than I have over these past few months. Setting aside the fear if the many unknowns and fully submiting ourselves to do as He has asked us to do, has been worth all of the bumps along the way.

Below is a picture I cut and pasted from my adoption agencies website. Just imagine looking at little angels like this when trying to choose which one should be with your family.

Much more to come, we'll keep you posted!

The Annual Red and White game, Go UTES!

2010-04-18T20:14:00.000-06:00

Every year Jeff to the University of Utah red and white game. The last few years he and Jacob gone on their own. This year we took our friends the Poulson's and met up with our dear friends Gary and Amber Hill. Always fun to be together with these great people.

Jake, Abbey & Emily Poulsen

Jake the GREAT!

Amber, Livvy, Gary

After the game we took Jake around to get the players to sign his ball. They were all so nice to all the kids and really treated them great.

We waited in a line for a half hour to have coach Kyle Whittingham sign his ball. When we were right at the front of the long line, security told everyone that was it. Being the first one they would turn away within a foot or two from the coach I turned into Mama Bear and Coach Whittingham stayed another few minutes. All Jake could utter out to Kyle was "You're awesome." To which Kyle said, "Thanks, I sure like that hat." Poor Jeffry was proud and jealous all at the same time. Ute Pride I tell you. Football does funny things to a man....

After the game we had the Poulson's over for dinner. I love Saturdays like these!

Happy Birthday Gramdpa Clark!

2010-04-10T00:10:00.000-06:00

This is not the most flattering picture of Jake or my Dad, unfortunately it is the only when I have of this event. But for posteritie's sake, we say, "Happy 67th Birthday Dad/Grandpa. Here's to many more!

April in Utah!!!!

2010-04-08T13:46:00.000-06:00

I always find it funny with people, like myself, who have pretty much grown up here Utah, are always surprised when we get dumped on by snow in April?!?!?!

My answer to that is: When do we not get snowed on in April??

Here are some pictures of the annual April snow. Spring snow is always great because it usually melts in 24 hours. Ahhhh, it would not be springtime in Utah if we did not have it snow!

Look at that manly man shoveling the sidewalk! Mwah!

Spring Break with Cousins

2010-04-07T13:56:00.000-06:00

So my dear cousin Heather Clark Peterson, who is one of just three of my cousins who are my age, decided it that we needed to hook up during spring break.

I love this woman! I pick up where I left off every time I see her! Even though we have rarely lived close to each other, I still feel a closeness and love with her that is amazing. I feel the same way with our cousin Cameron who is also our age.

We met at the Kangaroo Zoo in North Salt Lake. Ethan and Jake were instant friends and Tyler played great with them too. It's still fun to watch someone you've known your whole life growing into an amazing mother, wife and person.

Saying Goodbye. So Cute!

Love ya Heather! Let's get together again soon!

The Neighborhood 2010 Easter Egg Hunt.

2010-04-06T15:33:00.000-06:00

This was a first for Jake, as normally we have an Easter egg hunt and his Grandma & Grandpa Clark's every year. We participated in the Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt. Jeff was on a business trip to Santa Barbara, California, so it was just me and my boy.

A giant Kudos to the ladies in my neighborhood who put this together. It was well planned, and well organized. Jake had a great time.

Jeff came home later that day and Jake decided to hide all of the eggs he had collected around the house for Dad to find.

That night we "attempted" two color eggs. Much to my surprise, I did not have any of those pills left in my decorations box to dye eggs. But being Karen Clark's daughter that I am, we did the old fashioned way, with real food coloring vinegar and water.

To say we are to artistes would be seriously stretching it. We had a great time anyway.

Don't Miss the Mark: Vote for Katie Clark

2010-03-26T13:28:00.000-06:00

I had the privilege of hearing my oldest niece Katie's campaign speech for Syracuse Junior High's student body office.

I'm amazed that this little girl was two, when we got married, has turned into such a beautiful, articulate young lady. Here are a few picts from the day. And by the way, she won!

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Adoption Update!

2010-03-06T13:36:00.000-07:00

We have just completed our Home Study. Hooray! Pending approval we now move on to the Dossier information. What is a Dossier, you ask? An Adoption Dossier a compilation of official documents about our family and is required for every international adoption. The list of documents is extensive but we are already working on it.

As exhaustive as the work is, it is also very exciting. And I will have to learn a new kind of patience when waiting for the governments to review the documents.

Life continues to plug away, Jake is still crazy and we love him and Jeff and I feel pretty darn lucky to have such a wonderful life.

We'll keep you posted!

Utah's Indoor Ocean

2010-02-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

We took Jake to Layton Surf'n'Swim this week. I went to exercise my aching messed up back and neck and to ride the waves with my two favorite people.

Those of you who are closest to me know of my weak stomach. My brothers can acount to memories of the Brent and Karen Clark family vacations consisting of how many historical sites / activites we could cram into one day and my infamous puking in the car, as my dad yelled: "Not in the car, not in the car!"

Knowing this about myself you would think I would not even attempt ride the waves on a tube in the water. Undeterred by past experiences, I sat on the tube with the artificial waves. Within 5 minutes, Jeff looked at me and said, " You look green." Quickly he helped me off of the tube to spare the embarrassment of me launching vomit all over the pool. That my friends, is what marriage is all about!

Once I realized I could not use the tube, we still had a fantastic time.

Note to self: Don't attend the impossible!

Proud as Punch!

2010-02-16T22:45:00.000-07:00

See this adorable face??? How can you not LOVE this face? Mwah! This is my angel boy Jacob. When Jacob turned seven in October he realized he would be eight on his next birthday. Eight is the age in which he can choose to be baptised into the Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints. He made one simple request: He wanted us to read through The Book of Mormon, Old and New Testaments, Doctrine and Covenants readers by the time he turned eight. In his words, he wants to know if it is true before he decides to be Baptised. It is February and he and his Dad have cruised through The Book of Mormon, and New Testament and are finishing up the Old Testament right now. They should be all done by April. Jacob wants to read them all again just to be sure but has loved every one of the stories of the prophets and people. What a kid! What a great spirit! I hope that I am a good enough Mom to teach him all he needs to know. He teaches me much everyday.

On another note, Jake is getting really used to the idea of a little brother and can't wait until we go to Africa and get him. He gave up a bunch of his old toys and is so excited to share them with him and to "teach" him everything he knows. Poor guy does not realize that he too, will have to make some ajustments. But, Jake has always been great with just "rolling with it". I imagine given time, this will be no different.

I am in awe of my wonderful life. Great husband, great son, awesome friends, a job I love, live really does not get better. We are just going to spread our love a little more when our new son comes to be with us. What an advetnture lies before us! Wish us luck in our travels!

Happy Valentines Day to two LOVE birds.

2010-02-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

So why was trying to think of an "out of the box" or in this case" in the box" gift for Jeff for Valentine's Day this year. My man would not appreciate flowers. Nor did he want his standard gift of Ju-Ju Hearts (we are allergic to corn).

So as I was coming home from a job and listening to talk radio, an advertisement came a for Shari's Berries.
What it is Shari's Berries, you ask?

Shari's Berries are chocolate dipped strawberries in many different varieties. They came via FedEx and looked absolutely,decadently perfect. They have some way of keeping them cool while shipping them.

Needless to say Jeff there was no way when if ever guessed this V-Day surprise. Here's to 13 wonderful Valentine's days babe, I love ya!

I LOVED the chocolate rolled in Pecans Best!

Oh Happy Day!!!!

2010-02-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

The ADOPTION Home Study papers ARE IN! Phew! What a trip!

After hours and hours of filling out paperwork and gathering information, and writing our life stories for strangers to read (the good, bad and ugly).........we are off and running. YEHAAW!

Check back and we will keep you posted! And thanks for all of your continued support, we love you!

Beyond Frustrated

2010-01-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

I have just spent hours and hours in the last few weeks looking at adoption loans, grants, etc. Before I get on my soap box of frustration, let me update you on our progress:

Things are rolling forward with our home study adoption and paperwork everything should be in and moving forward as of February 1st. The paperwork is exhasting, it is not something you can do all in one setting. The questions in the autobiograpy are hard to answer and very thought provoking. I would say the autobiogrpahies alone took in total 36 hours of time each to fill out. That is only the begining. For the home study alone, this is what needs to be gathered:

Photocopies of your birth certificates and marriage certificate.
Photocopies of your picture I.D. and your social security cards.
Photocopies of your most recent savings, checking account, and retirement account statements.
Proof of health insurance.
Proof of life insurance.
A photocopy of your most recent 1040 tax forms.
A statement from your employer verifying the length of employment and annual salary.
Three letters of reference from non-relatives, and one from a relative.
A statement from your physician verifying that you are in good physical and mental health.
A police letter from your local police office verifying you have no criminal history.
Certificates of completion for the five adoption preparation courses (10 hours ).
Completed Parent Resource Worksheet .
Guardianship form completed by the people you've selected to be guardians for your children.
Completed autobiographies for both husband and wife.

We have a few more adoption classes to complete but can move forward with the home study with what we have so things will start moving forward then.

I have been searching the internet looking for ways to help us with the enromous cost of the adoption. grants, no interests loans, etc. Here is what I have found out: Because we are members of The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints, we are not eligable for 95% of the options out there. They are only availiable to Evangelical Christians, period.

Presidents of these funds and foundations have abruptly and rudely informed us that because of our beliefs, or what they think, assume, or have been told of our beliefs, we cannot participate, with a backhand bite reference that we are not Christians.

Wow.

They do not know and have not been told that we revere and worship Jesus as our Savior and redeemer. We believe that He died so that we might live again. Jesus Christ is the center of our religion, our church would not be bear His name if this was not so. He is my personal Savior and I love and serve Him in all that I do. I guess this testimony is null and void to Evangelical Christians. I wonder how they would feel if they were told they were not Christian becuase of diferences in theology. They would be beyond insulted. All I have to say is "By your fruits, ye shall know them."

Please continue to pray for us.

One Mechanical Mind

2010-01-08T11:44:00.000-07:00

On a recent trip to Grandma and Grandpa Clark's, Jake used their blocks to construct a tower. The ideas that spew from this boy's head are endless! He thinks that he can make anything! I love his little mind and how naturally he believes that anything's possible...

A Christmas Story

2010-01-05T13:51:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time there was little family of three who loved each other very much. They had so much love that they desperately wanted to share it with another child. After many failed attempts of bringing another biological child into the world and having so much love in their hearts, they looked into ways to bring another newborn babe to their home from another loving mother who was not able to give the life she wanted to for her child. Tried as they may to feel it was the right direction to go, they did not feel comfortable about moving forward. This was very frustrating to the little family.

Time passed and the Lord in his infinite wisdom guided them in another direction. With much prayer and supplication, they were guided not to a baby, but to a child. A toddler, whom they would bring into their home from a distant land, and give a better life than he would have otherwise.

Knowing that it was the right thing to do, but not knowing much else about the process, this family moved forward. The little family was overwhelmed by the cost and the preparations of adopting a child. They began to explore any and all options available.

Times were hard for a lot of people. Banks were not lending money or offering loans even to the family, who whose finances were in good order. Options once available to absorb some of the costs of adopting, were not available at the present time.

Going forward with faith, and much trepidation, they decided to organize a fundraiser to cover some of the beginning costs of the adoption. The mother worked tirelessly for weeks feeling very awkward asking for crafters and friends, to donate one item for the fundraiser. The mother herself, not being particularly crafty, did as much as she could to contribute her own donations towards the cause.

Much to her surprise, many, many people came out in force to help. The mother found herself very grateful for those creative hands and giving hearts that did so much to help.

The family was extremely humbled at the outpouring of donations for sale, to supply their event. The next task rather daunting for the family was getting the word out.

One thousand fliers were printed, Five hundred of which were distributed thanks to the efforts of four teenagers who spent several hours in very, very cold temperatures, cheerfully passing out fliers, singing Christmas carols along the way.

Social networking sites, blogs, emails, were sent. Never had this family had the need to ask for help like this. They had no idea what type of response they would receive. Their faith in mankind was restored by all who helped with so much to prepare for the fundraiser. What they hoped was that those pure in heart, would hear their prayers, and would feel compelled to come and purchase some of the wonderful items that were generously donated.

The day before the fundraiser, two wonderful friends, spend the whole day helping the mother price over four hundred items that were donated. The mother was amazed that these women, cheerfully, helped her put things together. The mother thanked God, once again, for wonderful friends.

Donations were brought till late in the night the day before fundraiser to was to be held .One angel friend, and a angel cousin, stayed till the wee hours of the morning, to decorate a and help display all of the items that were donated. After all the work was completed, the couple knew there was no way they could have pulled this off on their own. Their humility was overwhelming,

Around 4:00 AM on the morning of the first day of boutique, everything was finally ready. Exhausted, the mother knelt beside her bed before retiring, and offered up, a fervent prayer. "Lord, I have done all I can do, I am exhausted, I need thy help, by touching people, with our story, compelling them to come." The mother fell into bed for a short sleep.

The next day, within one hour, of the beginning of the fundraiser, as many as forty people, showed up to buy products and contribute. The mother and father were overwhelmed.

In one hour's time, they were astonished at the donations they received. They were grateful for every donation, no matter how small. Family came, brothers and sisters. Cousins drove an hour's drive to donate and support. Perfect strangers saw the signs and generously open their pocketbooks, for the cause. Neighbors not only contributed by making items to purchase, but came out in force to see what was there to buy. The couple commented privately to each other, this was a glorious life reunion with wonderful friends and family they associated with throughout their life. Tears of gratitude, tears of joy, and tears of every emotion were shed that day.

The fundraiser was held two days, both were bitterly cold. Friday, although cold, the sun was shining. Saturday, was snowy, icy, wet and cold. Very few people came in the first two hours on Saturday.

Again, the Lord poured his tender mercies in abundantly blessing the little family. In the afternoon things picked up. The second day was also filled with reunions of past friends and associates, and new friends who took the time to care. The family felt possibly, that they've lived in one of the greatest places on earth.

The donations did not end with the fundraiser. Many, many checks and money came in the mail, during the next few weeks. Family members, cousins, passed associates, and friends were overwhelmingly generous to this family. The family reflected heavily upon the reason for the season. And they felt the pure love of Christ because of what everyone had done...............................

Just when they thought they had seen all of the generosity they could bear, on Christmas Eve the doorbell rang at about 8:30 at night. When the mother opened up the door, no one was there. As she went to shut the door, she looked down on the doormat to see this:

A canning jar full of mostly quarters and a note that said: "We heard about your desire to adopt a child and we think that is wonderful. We wanted to help so here is a Christmas jar from us to you. We hope your dreams come true! Merry Christmas, The Christmas Elves." The coinage in the jar exceeded $85.00. Once again, they were amazed and vowed to always believe in Christmas Elves. The donations did not stop there. More have come since then. They are grateful for every donation, no matter how small.

This is our family's Christmas story this year. The fundraiser was a complete success! We thank all of you so much for your generosity. We have learned much, our faith in God, has also strengthened. We're so humbled and grateful beyond words, for everyone, who has helped us.

We have been told by many parents, who have adopted that adoption is a journey. We are already seeing this in the short time that we have been involved in the process.

Just to clarify, we do not know who our child is as of late. There are several processes to move through before we are given a stack of pictures; (from what we have been told) to choose which child we feel like is to be a part of our family. We are looking between the ages of two and four years old. We understand the risks that are associated with a child who was not an infant. We are ready for the challenge! We're happy we can give it a least one child, who is orphaned, or whose family no longer can care for them, a better life. We know this is to be. And I, as a mother, am aching inside, until we bring this boy home to be with our family. This experience has been life changing. I am a born a cynic. A quality I wish I did not possess most of the time. This is experience has taught me much. And I am sure; I have much more to learn. There just no words to express our gratitude.

You may check back frequently on this blog and I will try very, very hard, to keep everyone updated on the process.

In the next several weeks we should have all of the paperwork done and processed to move forward with the home study. The home study takes two months. The information is then sent to the dossier. From there things start to move rather quickly. Check back every few weeks, and I will do my best to keep you updated.

How we feel is summed up by a familiar quote from the movie, It's a Wonderful Life: "Remember, no man is a failure who has friends."

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts and wish you and yours all the blessings and happiness in your lives that are possible.

Love,

Jeff, Linda, & Jacob Isom

One last BITE and a cute little Snowman!

2010-01-02T22:22:00.000-07:00

Look what I found my two boys doing the other day?? Biting off pieces of the gingerbread house before they were sent off to the burn plant!!!

Seriously????

Jake I can believe!!

Jake and his friend Abby decided it was high time they build a snowman with all this snow!! He's little but super cute!

Can you believe these two are the same age??? One of Jake's most favorite things in the world is making snowman and playing in the snow. He tells me every year he wishes it would not melt. Maybe he'll live in Alaska with the Eskimos when he grows up!

HAPPY 2010!!!

2010-01-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Partying too hard on New Years Eve, here is our sleeping giant finally zonked on the way home at 2 am. Happy New Year all!

Don't ya just LOVE the hat???

Hangin with the cousin's

2009-12-30T21:25:00.000-07:00

Taylor, Hunter and Lily came over for two days to visit and hang out with us. We had a great time. They are great kids, so fun to be with. They decided they wanted to all sleep by the tree and watch Elf. Hey, it's a holiday so we can ablige! Cousins sleepovers are the best!!!

Knestled all snug in their beds.

DO NOT STAY HERE!!!! FREE Room gone awry on 12th wedding aniversary.

2009-12-27T22:05:00.000-07:00

Best Western Landmark Inn in Park City

This still makes me so mad that I'll be as breif as possible to explain how we got kicked out of this second rate establishment.

We had a voucher for a FREE room. Between my rewards points and Jeff's points we even had enough for the free room in this Best Western in Park City. I set it all up with their reservations people on the phone, gave them my certificate number and such and thought I was ready to go.

Happily we drove for a one night getaway for our 12th wedding aniversary. When we got there, the front desk copied my rewards card and sent us on our way. About three hours later after we came back from dinner the guy at the front desk flagged me down before I went to our room while Jeff was parking the car. The man at the desk told me I did not have enough points to stay at the hotel. After going back and forth with him assuring him I did, he told me he could give me a discounted rate for the night at $140.00 to which we told him we'd rather leave than have to pay for something that we as rewards members were entitled to recieve (Jeff had made his way into the hotel by then).

He then told us that he was going to charge us for half a nights stay for the three hours our stuff sat in the room. At that point Jeff told him that if he did so, we would reverse the charges. We asked to talk to the manager and he went to go get her. Five minutes later he came back with no manager and told us to leave.

I called the BW rewards card people and told them what was happening as we were gathering our things and leaving. They told me I most certainly did have enough points and did not know why they were giving us such crap about it. So they called the front desk and told them their error. By this time Jeff was so mad he could not stay in the hotel. So as we were leaving Jeff told them not to worry about fixing it and the guy at the front desk told him he was glad we were leaving because he was sick of dealing with us and the problem.

The BW rewards people were able to get us a really nice mini suite at the BW on 5th south in SL and so we went there for the night. Much nicer than the room we had in Park City and for less points. Happy Aniversary to us, eh!