the crazy mixed up life of rhonda

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-19T18:21:00.000-08:00

Cote,Brexton and Nixin visiting Santa!

Of course we have our long standing Gingerbread House tradition. The kids love it more each year. Nixin was very determined this year. She knew exactly what she wanted to do.

Cote is a pro by now but you can see he still enjoys it.

Brexton was very excited to do a train this year. He told me it was his most favorite ever!

Job well done!

Today we did Christmas cookies. Nixin enjoyed cutting out and decorating her cookies. She made the star below for her G-Mama. Like I said, if sprinkles are an indication of love then.....I am loved!

Cote and Brexton decorated theirs when they came home from school. Cote was excited to eat his cookies and Brexton was excited to decorate and eat his cookies.

Brexton made this star for me.....notice the number of sprinkles on mine? Luv it!

It is important to have family traditions. Life can sometimes be hard and throw us a curve. We experience joys and sorrows within our families. Traditions are constants in our lives. During our hard times we can participate in our family traditions and we can also remember and reflect on the joy we experienced being together and the love we have for each other. I'm thankful that my parents started many family traditions like these that we are still participating in today!

My First Roundup!

2011-11-18T20:08:00.001-08:00

If I had composed a bucket list participating in a roundup would have definitely been on it. The cattle had already been rounded up and brought to the holding area where they would be branded,wormed,vaccinated and the bulls castrated. Our neighbors Bill and Marla Patrick along with Bill's mother Dee lease 100 miles of land just outside of Superior where they are raising some cattle. My neighbor Teri had participated in bringing the cattle in and she got an invited for me to tag along today.

If there is a windmill you know I am going to take a picture of it. This is a working windmill that Toy built. The water was pumping into the holding tank and into a pond behind where I was standing. This is not the holding area we were working in today, we drove up to this one to hang a sign that Teri made.

When Bill was younger he would swim in this holding tank.

Here's one of the no parking signs Teri made.

Frank preparing the fire for the branding iron and their coffee.

The branding!

Teri vaccinating a calf.

Bill and Marla

This calf is still a bull in this picture but.........

Teri is holding a testicle from the calf that is on the ground. They cook them in the fire and the men chowed down like there is no tomorrow. I was told for my initiation I needed to taste this delicacy. I did it and it tasted like chicken. I have to say chicken I will eat again but this other was a once in a lifetime experience.

Waiting for Toy and Devan to rope the first calf of the morning.

This is Black Jack, a one year old Jack Russell and he herded those cows all over the place. At one time he was moving 12 cows at once.

Meet Toy who works the ranch and Joleen a beautiful Palomino getting ready to rope.

Toy's cute daughter Devan roping a calf. She works full time with her Dad and she can outride and out rope most guys.

This little calf,Sweet Pea, got separated from her mama when she was only 3 days old and she walked all the way down a canyon till someone found her and called the ranch. Frank picked her up and has raised her at the ranch house for the past 6 months. Two days ago he took her out to the holding corral with the other cows who did not accept her. Sweet Pea got to go back to the ranch house today. When Frank brought Sweat Pea her milk bucket she drank the whole thing without even coming up for air. I think she is adorable.

It was a fun morning and I was glad I could participate. It reminded me of being in Panaca, Nevada (my mom's one town) during the summertime when I was a child. Still on the bucket list is to ride out and bring the cows in........Next time!

My Parents 60th Wedding Anniversary

2011-11-09T10:05:00.000-08:00

On May 24th 2011 my parents,George Paul Wimsatt Jr and Ina Mae Wadsworth Wimsatt celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary!

As part of our celebration held in July (I will have another post about that) I'm happy to say we had family pictures taken and I wanted to share some of those pictures on my blog.

I am blessed to have the most wonderful parents and as a result of that a great family. Unfortunately,not many marriages last for 60 plus years in the world today. I'm sure if you asked my parents they would tell you it wasn't always easy,that at times it took hard work. Why have they endured? Because they love each other,have the same goals and eternal perspective,keep their covenants, are committed to their family and each other and most importantly they are both selfless.

My Dad is selfless,dedicated,a hard worker,talented (he can fix,cook or build anything and do one heck of a job,sings and has a beautiful voice)humble,has a testimony, a sense of humor and he will always have your back even when you don't deserve it.

My Mom is selfless,loving,talented(sews,cooks,writes,crafts and so much more)has a testimony and love for her pioneer heritage and ancestors. One thing my Mom excels at is making every outing,activity or family tradition the most special experience for everyone involved.

I always knew my parents could do or fix almost anything. If it wasn't fixable I knew they were there to support,encourage and love me through it.

Now you have a little glimpse as to why I am so blessed. ENJOY!

The gang is all here!

From left to right,my younger brother Craig,me,parents and my older brother Paul

Adding my husband Steve and Paul's wife Joanne. Craig was feeling a little lonely but that will change in December when he marries his fiancé Tracey!

From left to right-Chris holding Ryann,Ethan,Jeni,Joanne,Paul and Justin

From left to right-Trey,Jenna holding Montana,me,Steve holding Nixin,Brinton,Brexton,Charlotte,Cote

From left to right-Miranda,Craig,Joshua,Hannah

My parents with their posterity-grandchildren and great-grandchildren

Granny's Mustard Pickle

2011-11-06T17:20:00.000-08:00

What a fun experience we have had! My Granny,Lois Wadsworth, was many things all of them wonderful! She was known far and wide for her superior cooking. There are so many things my Granny cooked that I personally adored such as pies,cinnamon rolls,chocolate cake with cherry frosting,chicken noodle soup with her homemade noodles,bread (to die for) and tuffies from the bread dough,donuts,the veggies straight from her garden(you could have corn on the cob and sliced tomatoes from the garden for breakfast and I always thought that was so cool) and I could go on and on and on. One of my all time favorites was mustard pickle.

My parents grew a garden when they lived in Descanso and they did a lot of canning at that time. They used to can Granny's chili sauce and mustard pickles from the veggies they grew. As a result even after my Granny passed away we still enjoyed her recipes. Recently we were talking about mustard pickle and we decided we would can some. Trey and Jenna were very interested also. All through the summer we looked for pickling cucumbers with no success. Finally Jenna found some and my parents ran right out and had to fight for the last 16 pounds at the farmers market! You go Mom! My folks gathered all the ingredients together, I got the jars and we assembled together at our home with Trey and Jenna to can our mustard pickle with Granny's recipe.

We made three batches yielding 11 pints each. Not only do they look so beautiful they taste just like Granny's! It was fun being together canning our mustard pickles. I couldn't help but reminisce about wonderful childhood memories spent in the kitchen with my parents and my Granny. Priceless!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CUTTER!

2011-11-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give a shout out to my boy Cutter (on the left) he turned one year old yesterday November 3rd! He is maturing into one intelligent,strong ball of energy! He and I are currently taking agility classes through Good Dog and we both enjoy it immensely!

2011-10-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

It was time for our annual Pumpkin carving and chili dinner. This year I still made the chili but we got together at Scott and Carrie's. I thank them for that as Steve and I have had a busy two weeks. It was a fun filled,perfect night and as you can see by my photos a grand time was had by all.

Boys love to carve pumpkins and make silly faces. You will see that Miller is pretty excited about the entire pumpkin experience.

Don't let this adorable,innocent little girl,our Gracie, fool you....she is a little pistol! Julie has her hands full. We know that Gracie will be able to hold her own with the Gunnell boys or anyone else.

Brinton was relaxing after throwing Nixin and Brexton's fabulous Happy Birthday parties.

We loved Mallory's ruffles and lace and she was happy with Aunt Amanda.

Ma-T was here this year with goodie bags for the kids! As I said Miller lovin the experience.

I don't think Cash wanted to touch the insides of the pumpkin!

Trey working on their pumpkin surprise. Everyone loved it except perhaps Montana....you'll see what I mean.

Miller showing us all the light inside his pumpkin.

Miller and Cash making sure the light was still shinning. LOL!

One of the few pictures I hve of Cole he was so busy playing ball with the big guys.

Trey and Jenna's pumpkin surprise is Montana! Last year Jenna was pregnant and they carved a fetus (Montana) on their pumpkin...this year the fruition.

This is how Montana really felt!

Can you guess who is the alien pumpkin?

Much better than that slimy orange thing my mom and dad stuffed me in.

Chillin!

Obviously Miller gets some of his enthusiasm from his big brother Martin.

The Trifecta is Complete- Brexton turns 6

2011-10-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

October 10th was Brinton's birthday,October 16th was Princess Nixin's birthday but today, October 22nd is BREXTON'S BIRTHDAY! It was a very Captain America Birthday.

These cakes that Charlotte brought were Captain American and oh so very,very yummy! I am not kidding! Chocolate peanut butter,cookies and cream and red velvet. Some of us had to sample all three.( You know who you are).

Someone's wish will come true because he blew out all his candles.

It was a very boy party but you might see one little girl in the middle of all these boys giving orders!

The yard was filled with super heros and villains. They made their Captain America shields.

So this is how the opening of presents starts.......everyone sitting calmly,watching. Brexton is a little timid........

and this is how it ends......Brexton is tearing it up and it is a wild rumpus!

His Dad,Cote and Nixin gave him this awesome skateboard!

Sweet dreams in new Marvel PJ's

A Troll shirt made just for him..video games + skateboard + legos=TROLL!

Fav drink....rootbeer!

The Skateboard Pinata was a hit...or should I say took a few hits!

Great Grandma Ina was there......

Papa and G-Mama were there.......

every party needs a Princess (even a bossy one)...

Brexton's too cute cousin,Montana...

another Princess cousin Mallory,so cute...

another cousin Miller, A.K.A. Indiana Jones...When asked if he liked the party he gave an enthusiastic YES!

Brinton is quite the party planner! Brexton and everyone else had an outstanding time! Brexton, we love you and are so proud of you! Happy Birthday TROLL!

Princess Nixin Turns 3

2011-10-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

Every Princess needs a Princess party and that is exactly what Princess Nixin got!

We love Nixin and were so happy to celebrate her third birthday with her.

Great Grandma Ina and Great Grandpa George provided the tiaras for the three Princesses in attendance. Her daddy Brinton made sure she had the oh so fabulously delicious cupcakes. They were so yummy!

She blew out all of her candles.

Everything was Princess and Pink!

Goody bags and wands for the Princesses.

G-Mama and Papa gave Nixin her tea set from the Beauty and the Beast.

Needless to say they loved having their strawberry milk in the tea set.

Montana,Trey and Jenna were there too. Montana loves,loves her cousin Cote! Brexton is anxiously awaiting his party next week!

She didn't want to put her Princess dolls and house down. Thanks Daddy!

Grandma Ina and Grandpa George gave Nixin a beautiful collectors Cinderella doll and Cinderella shirt. Trey and Jenna gave her some Princess books.

I think someone will have sweet dreams tonight! Sleep tight Princess Nixin!

Montana and Labor Day at Trey and Jenna's

2011-10-15T12:48:00.001-07:00

We have been so lucky to get to spend a little time with Montana on Wednesday afternoons. She has finally warmed up to Papa and G-Mama and we have a lot of fun! She loves to go outside and visit the horses,dogs,turtles and Kya. She truly enjoys the great outdoors. Tanna is already a seasoned camper just like her daddy was at her age.

Labor Day we had a cookout at Trey and Jenna's. There was food,swimming and family. Doesn't get much better than that!

My grandpup Spur

I love how Montana curls her toes when she sits for balance. She will be a little gymnast for sure.

Swimming makes you tired just ask Brexton and Nixin

Nixin slam dunk!

Brexton tackles the slide and luvs it!

My parents were also there and we enjoyed spending time together. Thanks Trey and Jenna for having us over. We love you!

Schnept Farms with Nixin and Cash

2011-10-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

Adorable! For the last few years I have been fortunate enough to go to Schnepf Farms with Brinton and his family in conjunction with the Busy Bee Pre School. This year I got to take Nixin and Papa consented and came so we brought Cash too. This has been a fun tradition and the kids just love it and so do I!

Nixin and Cash were feeding Papa hay and of course he was going along with it and loving every minute.

Cash fell in love with this airplane ride. He was so proud he could make it go up and down. He rode it three times and wanted to ride it again!

This was a pretty big slide that Cash wanted to go down but when he got there he thought it was ginormous so Papa hitched a ride.

Nixin wasn't too sure about the goats but she eventually gave in and enjoyed petting them.

I love this picture of Papa and the kids!

Too cute!

Nixin and Cash loved the Papa transport!

They loved picking out their own pumpkins.

Disneyland With Scott, Carrie,Martin,Miller and Mallory

2011-09-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

Anyone that knows me knows how much I love Disneyland and there is nothing better than going to Disneyland with family and your grandchildren! We were lucky enough to go with Scott,Carrie,Martin,Miller and Mallory this summer. Everyone had a fantastic time and I have some pictures to prove it. Enjoy!

Just starting our day-

The first rides we went on were Pirates and The Haunted Mansion- not the most kid friendly but Miller was awesome.

Here are some adorable faces for sure-

Miller and Martin found some resting places while we were waiting in line. Martin will ride just about any ride no matter how fast,dark or wild-NO FEAR!

Miller loved his real "Woody" doll...

Martin had a blast with his bubble gun...

Everyone enjoyed "Its a Small World". As Scotty said age appropriate rides are better!

Mallory had her first ice ceam and loved it of course!

Martin was working the tea cups. That is about the only ride I wont ride (too many spins with my brother Paul cranking that cup around and around and around and oh am I dizzy just thinking about it)

My New Saddle

2011-09-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

Just before I retired I decided to get a new saddle. My old one is still in great condition and we will have a lot of rides together still, but saddles are pricy so I thought it would be a good idea to get my backup saddle before I retired. Also I would have two saddles incase Psynna and Santanna were to ride out at the same time. What was a nice surprise was that Steve bought it for me! It was time to take it for a test run so I saddled up Psynna and we headed out yesterday. It is a Circle Y like my other saddle but if you look at the back of the seat you will see it is taller. It is supposed to help support the lower back and it felt good! Thanks Steve, I luv ya!

Family Fun and Celebration

2011-09-04T14:26:00.000-07:00

In preparation for our celebration of my parents George and Ina Wimsatt's 60th wedding anniversary family came to town,some a little early to spend more time with family. My brother Craig came with his three children;Miranda.Hannah and Josh. Craig's girlfriend Tracy came with her daughter Chasity and one of her sons Cameron. We decided to drive up to the cabin in Show Low,AZ. We thought it would be nice to show Tracy and her family a different side of Arizona and it was July so we knew it would be much cooler in the White Mountains.

We found some golf clubs and golf balls in the garage and decided to sneak out onto the course in between players and hit a few. If you look at peoples expressions you can tell this shot of Hannah's was an impressive one.

I think there was a swing and a miss on Josh's first attempt. I hate it when that happens. Steve always says to me when we are playing golf;"You can totally miss the ball, look horrible and the next shot hit right down the middle!" Josh was successful on his next atempt.

Chasity is looking like a pro!

Craig and Steve looking very,very serious!

The view of the fairway behind the cabin. Beautiful!

Getaway to Torreon-Vernon-Springerville

2011-08-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

Being retired is fun! Steve and I decided on the spur of the moment to take a trip to the cabin in Show Low. We left Sunday afternoon and drove the 3 hours. We like to stop in Payson and eat at Macky's Grill. They have delicious hamburgers and we all know that is Steve's favorite dish!

Monday we went for a drive up through Vernon and Springerville. We came back "over the mountain" as the locals say to Show Low, a very scenic drive.

We were driving through Vernon just for fun and we saw an interesting area to our left. We weren't sure what we were looking for. From the road we thought it might be a cemetery. There was a gentleman watering so we stopped and started a conversation. His last name is Applegate and the 3 1/2 acres we were looking at belonged to him. It was his yard. What made it so interesting was he had all these little areas divided by a corner of a white picket fence. These were filled with statues,figurines,bird cages,fountains and flowers. I was just so intrigued that I had to ask if I could take some pictures. He agreed but he did follow me around conversing. i would have taken more but I didn't want to intrude.

We had a great time. Enjoy the pictures!

The above birdhouse was my favorite. Steve was having a hard time figuring out why they had so many birdhouses sitting around with no birds.

The above picture is actually the Gunsmoke town made out of bird houses! It is awesome in color but I wanted to try the sepia since it is an old western town. LOL!

After we left Mr. Applegate's we saw a few young elk grazing on some lush grass.

If you double click on the pic you can see the elk better.

Vernon with Craig's Family

2011-08-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

In preparation for my parents 60th wedding anniversary celebration, yes I said 60th, my brother Craig and his family came to Mesa, Arizona a little early to spend additional time with family and each other.

Being that it was July and that translates to hot here in Mesa we decided to head up to our cabin in Show Low, Arizona to take a break from the heat for a couple of days. Unfortunately my parents could not join us as my mom has a difficult time breathing in the higher elevation. Craig,my nieces Miranda and Hannah,my nephew Josh, Craig's girlfriend Tracy,her son Cameron and her daughter Chasity accompanied Steve and I to the cabin. We had a relaxing time in the cooler temps,some good food and even better company.

One of the things I wanted to do while there was to make the drive to Vernon, Arizona about 20 minutes outside of Show Low on the way to Springerville. I wanted to take the drive as my friends and neighbors, Teri and Reggie, have some property in Vernon that I wanted to visit.

As we made the turn onto Vernon Road heading towards their property I glanced to my left and saw this wonderful old windmill in a fenced vacant lot. I had my camera as did Craig. I mentioned on the way out we should stop and take some photos of this windmill.

We climbed through the fence to take pictures. Craig came up with some great photo ops and I followed his lead. I think these pictures are some of the best I have ever taken. Everyone patiently waited in the cars while Craig,Hannah and I did our thing.

It was a beautiful day with cloud cover that enhanced the photos.

This photo reminds me of something I would see in Panaca,Nevada my mother's hometown.

The writing on the windmill said "The Aermotor Chicago.

We all took a turn climbing up the windmill. Craig took the photos of me with my camera.

Hannah is very photogenic!

This was Craig's idea and I had to copy it because I knew it would be a great picture.

A Beautiful Morning

2011-08-22T13:17:00.001-07:00

It was indeed a breathtaking sunrise this morning! I luv everything about our home. One of the times I enjoy the most is the mornings.

My dogs Cutter and Piper are eager to bolt out the back door to see what has happened in their world while they were sleeping.

My horses always great me with a nicker which basically says;"It's about time you got up to feed me!" Then they begin to pace in hungry anticipation. I feed them,water them,brush them,fly spray them and yes I shovel manure. I happen to love the smell of hay,horse and manure!

My African Grey, Kya, sings,talks and whistles the most in the mornings. She is also awaiting her smorgasbord of seeds,fruits and vegetables.

Occasionally as I am rushing back and forth I take the time to look up and really SEE the beauty that surrounds me. One such occasion was this morning and it sent me running for my camera. I am truly greatfull for this beautiful world Heavenly Father has created for me.

A beautiful sunrise!

Santannah waiting for me to feed.

Psynna a little jealous that I was taking Santannah's picture. She is a diva!

Cutter loves to play ball in the morning before the heat sets in. He found this one in the arena this morning and we played several rounds of fetch.

Cutter really wants me to throw the ball again and Piper just wants to go in the house because she is hot!

King of the Hill

2011-08-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Who says only kids like to pay King of the Hill?

Yes, you can tell that I have retired because I have the time to snap these pictures while I am feeding the horses in the morning.

Rhonda Retires

2011-08-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

I started working as Steve's dental assistant in January 2001. Steve and I were actually divorced at that time and I was working for TRW Systems Federal Credit Union at the TRW site in Mesa. I enjoyed that job but I needed more hours and better pay.

Steve had wanted me to come and work in the dental office for awhile but I had always refused. I had a couple of reasons why I had not accepted his offer:

1. We were divorced and I wasn't sure how well we would work together. No brainer, right?

2. In the past I had been known to have a weak stomach when it came to surgery and blood.

Examples:

Like the time Brinton split his head open running through the church while I was decorating for a young women's activity. On the way to the doctor's office I had stopped at the stop sign and opened the door of my Volkswagen to vomit into the street. Brinton asked me why I "throwed up" and I explained I had a stomach ache.

There was the time Steve was stitching up Brinton's eye or Trey's thumb and I was laying in the hallway in the dental office trying not to throw up and feeling faint.

The worst was when my cousin and college roommate Lisa fell and split her chin open. She had it stitched and when it came time to have her stitches removed I went went her to the infirmary for moral support. The next thing I know I wake up lying on a gurney in another room and I could hear Lisa and the doctor talking and yes, laughing, as he was removing her stitches.

Now back to my story. I think you can see why working in the dental office might not have been my first career choice. However, Steve made me an offer I could not refuse and I started as his dental assistant. Turns out we worked well together. I found that I enjoyed working with Steve. He is a maverick and you are never bored working beside him. He is a general dentist who also does, orthodontics,endodontics,oral surgery including implants and well you name it Steve does it.

I also saw a different side of Steve as we worked side by side. I saw how generous he is,how compassionate he is, how fair he is and how devoted he is to his patients. I began to truly realize what a fabulous dentist Steve is. One of his implant reps likes to refer to him as a "Rock Star"! Needless to say seeing Steve in a different light by working with him contributed to our getting remarried. In essence, this was the best job I ever had!

As time went on I ended up in the front office and I learned that aspect of the business. When Brannon came into the office I became his front office "girl friday". I have enjoyed watching Brannon grow with his practice. He is also a wonderful dentist with great skills who is

kind, compassionate and fair. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree!

Steve retired the first of May 2011. I planned on continuing to work for an undetermined time. I wanted to be there as Brannon transitioned taking over Steve's patients. Not long after he retired Steve came to me and said that his retirement wasn't really retirement if I wasn't retired. He suggested it was time I also retired. July 14th 2011 was my last day working at the dental office.

My life now is to be continued....................

I had posted a picture of the awesome rock Steve was given by the office when he retired but I wanted to post it again along with photos of my retirement gift from the office.

This is what you get when you retire after being a dentist for 40 years!

This is what you get when you retire after having worked in the dental office for 10 years!

Thanks Dr. Duffy!

I think they complement each other quite well in our front yard, don't you?

A side note. My first day as a dental assistant Steve was extracting every upper tooth on a young woman and delivering a full upper denture. He said; "Come on Rhonda, you are going to assist me with this." ..................I did not get sick!

"We Thought You Was A Toad"

2011-08-19T13:53:00.000-07:00

Trivia anyone? What movie was the line :"We thought you was a toad" featured in? It always struck me funny!

Anyhoo (as Aunt Martie would say)the other evening I was trying to get Cutter Boy to come into the house. He wasn't coming even with the promise of a cookie which pretty much gets him every time. I flipped on the outside light and saw that he was chasing something around and around the inside of his wading pool. I had a suspicion what it could be so I grabbed my flashlight and Hannah (she was visiting) and went out to take a look. Above is what we found swimming in Cutter's wading pool. The toad has since been back on several occasions. They are poisonous to dogs so we just bring Cutter and Piper in so Mr. Toad can hydrate.

The answer to the trivia question is "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou".

SPORTS WITH COTE AND BREXTON

2011-08-11T04:18:00.000-07:00

Life has been busy and I have not posted events in a timely manner. I want to post some of our activities even if they are out of sequence.

I have to say that Brexton was our most improved athlete this year. It wasn't that he couldn't play as well last year but this year he truly wanted to play. With Brexton that makes all the difference. The photos below are of one of his t bats. Nice hit and scoring after successfully running the bases. Way to go Brexton!

Now at the games we would have a various assortment of cheerleaders. I wish I had a picture of my mom and dad as they were able to attend a few games this season. That means that my mom was feeling much better after some pretty serious health issues.

Nixin has been to many games to cheer on her brothers!

Cote played flag football and baseball at the same time. He was a busy young man. I don't have any baseball pictures to post but I want to point out that Cote was the only player from his baseball team to be asked to play on one of the ALL-STAR teams. We were all very proud of his accomplishments. Below are some action photos from a flag football game. He is the one in the yellow socks and hat right in the middle of the action!

Cutter, Piper and the Golf Cart

2011-08-04T11:04:00.001-07:00

As you know I loved my two Queensland Heelers Rowdy and Cowgirl. They were the best two dogs. One thing thing they didn't enjoy was riding in the golf cart. Rowdy would ride in the cart when I was dragging the arena because that had to do with the horses and she felt that her sole purpose in life was to watch over the horses and keep them in line. Cowgirl didn't want to ride in the golf cart at all! She had better things to do like hunt chipmunks,rabbits and squirrels!

When I brought Cutter home he was 11 weeks old and I decided to initiate him to the golf cart immediately. I wanted him to enjoy going for a ride. Piper was four months old when I brought her home a few months after Cutter. I immediately put her in the golf cart. Well, I got my wish,both Cutter and Piper LOVE,LOVE the golf cart. In fact they are extreme golf cart enthusiasts. If we go for a ride they feel they absolutely must be going too. If they wander off my unfenced property (which they do occasionally as they are pups in training) I just turn the golf cart on and put it in reverse so the backup beeper starts and they both come running to beat the band! Works every time! If you leave them behind they whine,cry and are broken hearted. They are ready to go for a ride in the two pictures above. Don't they look happy?

Indoor SkyDiving Adventure

2011-06-15T19:26:00.001-07:00

Wow! What a BLAST!

For Christmas Brannon and Amanda gave Steve and I gift certificates for Indoor Skydiving.They had previously done this with Jim and Patti and they felt that Steve and I needed to experience this. They were right! We truly had a great time. We didn't do too bad for our first time out of the gate. When you leave an experience like this wanting to do it again that is success!

Brannon and Amanda were like old pros. Thank you so much for this gift and for experiencing this with us! We love you guys. We have a DVD if anyone ever wants to see it.

I forgot to mention that you get to wear these very stylish jumpsuits and attractive safety helmets.

Phoenix Zoo

2011-06-15T19:12:00.001-07:00

My Mom has always loved the Zoo! When I was young we went to the San Diego Zoo quit often. When we moved to Arizona my Mom became a Phoenix Zoo volunteer. In fact because of my Mom,Brinton was a Phoenix Zoo teen volunteer. We have taken many family excursions to the Phoenix Zoo. If is truly a wonderful zoo. You are up close and personal with the animals and they work very hard to create as natural an environment as possible for the animals. Thanks Mom for instilling the love for wildlife in all of us!

Brinton and Charlotte have loved the zoo and take their children often to enjoy! Steve and I went along with them on May 30th. Good times,noodle salad.

Nixin really,really wanted to ride the Panda!

Cutter and Piper

2011-06-15T18:58:00.001-07:00

They are growing up, physically anyway. They are still two very energetic puppies! I still miss my older more mature girls, Cowgirl and Rowdy. Although exhausting the young bloods can make me laugh. We were taking advantage of walking in Usery Park before it got really hot.

Easter Family Time

2011-05-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I am a little behind with my Easter post. I seem to have been very busy dealing with memorial posts and new addition posts.

We had a very enjoyable Easter dinner this year. We were small in numbers but thoroughly enjoyed those that could make it.

Scott and Carrie were here with Martin, Miller and Mallory. Martin with his new walking stick.

Miller with his Hungry Caterpillar. It is a pillow/sleeping bag/blanket.

My parents with Brexton and Nixin.

Brexton and Nixin with their baskets. We were happy that Brinton and Charlottte, Brexton and Nixin were here with us.

Everything is better when you are with the ones you love. Easter is a special time of year to reflect on the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I am grateful that families can be forever and that my Savior loved us enough that he suffered for all of our sins. If we live the gospel principles and repent and forsake our sins we will live with him once more. I love my family and I am thankful that so many live close and we can share special times together. Good times,noodle salad!

Dueces Pied Piper

2011-05-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

Am I CRAZY? Probably so, probably so!

Before I get to the crazy part had to post two pics just because. Cutter has decided that he should play with the horse's jolly balls. They are huge but he is strong!

This picture was taken after Nixin's first ride. She was thanking Santannah for letting her ride him. When I put her in the saddle he literally bend his head around to see what lightweight was in the saddle. He was so sweet I think he recognized our little girl was in the saddle and proceed with caution! Thanks Santannah!

OK- Now we are to the CRAZY part........Meet Deuce's Pied Piper, "Piper" to us. She is a 4 month old Australian Shepherd. When Rowdy died I got Cutter to keep Cowgirl company. When Cowgirl died Cutter was miserable so I decided after a lot of thought and against my better judgement to get Piper for Cutter. Now that I see how joyous Cutter is I'm glad I got her even though I have my work cut out for me trying to get these two trained.

Our first walk was very successful.

She is very sweet a much calmer than Cutter boy!

He is all over her like white on rice. She takes it well and is starting to let him know when she has had enough. I see alpha female all over Piper! Watch out Cutter!

Nixin Loves Horses- Oh Yes She Does!

2011-05-13T21:40:00.000-07:00

This is a dream come true! My beautiful two year old granddaughter Nixin rode my horse Santannah for the first time this evening and she loved it! I'm sure you noticed the "pink" cowgirl boots..........When Montana is ready Nixin can show her the way to "Get r Done".

Look at that smile, she was actually laughing from sheer joy, joy of riding!

This is Nixin ready to ride.

Cote put his new Lego set together in about 10 to 15 minutes! Amazing!

This was not Brexton's first ride. G-Mama was proud of him today cause he rode like an old pro . He also put together his Lego set.

Family Fun at the Gunnell Reunion!

2011-05-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

Easter weekend there was a Charles B. and Myrtle Gunnell family reunion. It will be the last reunion with the combined families of the children of Charles and Myrtle. Future reunions will be individual families such as the J. Darwin. Gunnell family.

It was a wonderful reunion, I think the best yet! I didn't take a lot of pictures so I will give you a brief outline of activities. Friday morning there was a scramble golf tournament at Apache Wells golf course with about 20 participants. This was organized by Steve and it went very well. While some were playing golf those that wanted hiked to Wind Cave in Usery Park.

Steve and I had Cote, Crew,Cole and Brexton sleepover. We ate pizza, roasted marshmallows for S'mores and the boys built their tallest tinker toy tower yet! They all went to bed in a tent set up in the living room but by morning there were four boys spread all over the family room and living room.

As you can see the four boys and I hiked Wind Cave a 3 1/2 mile hike round trip. I was so proud of all of them!

After 40 Years Steve Retires!

2011-05-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

For the past 40 years Steve has been a hard working dentist. I have been privileged to work with him since Jan 2001. I started as his chair side assistant and I am presently working front office. I am so thankful that I have been able to work for Steve because I was able to see another side to him that I would not have experienced as his wife.

Dr Steven Gunnell is loved by his patients. He is honest,fair and very,very good at what he does. What does he do? Everything! Oral surgery including implants,ortho,some perio,endo,prosthodontics and general dentistry. Most general dentists do not do what Steve has done. Patients would be referred to specialist much more often. He is bold and a pioneer. If a patient needed treatment and there was no textbook procedure Dr. Gunnell would find a way!

Steve never wanted to be the most expensive dentist or the cheapest. He wanted to be known as fair and he was. If he had charged according to his skills he would have been one of the most expensive around! He has great compassion for his patients and he never wanted to burden them financially beyond what they could afford for treatment. I can't even begin to count the number of people he has helped at no cost. These are just a few of the things I learned about my husband Steve while working for him. People used to ask me if it was hard to work for my husband. Honestly,no! He is after all the "Dental God" and he taught me everything that I know. Now at home it is a different story!

Dr. Duffy and the office gifted Steve with this sandblasted boulder! Isn't it AWESOME! Dr. Duffy also presented Steve with the old sign to the dental office and I will post pictures of that once we hang it.

Cutter likes it!

Now you will be home to play with me won't ya Doc?

Cutter is already helping Steve water..................

Cowgirl - Oct.20,1999 - May 4,2011

2011-05-04T19:10:00.000-07:00

Today we lost our "one of a kind" Cowgirl. It is truly the end of an era now that Cowgirl and her sister Rowdy are both gone. I can honestly say that there will never be any other dogs that will compare to these two special companions.

Cowgirl had a strong will to not only live but enjoy life to the fullest. She was born with a condition called Mega Esophagus. Dr. Adkins told me today that it is remarkable for any dog with this condition to live two months let alone 11 1/2 years like Cow.

When she was three months old my horses Tazazz stepped on her and broke her leg.It was hard to keep her down even with her cast. When she was 5 Steve's horse kicked her in the face, her nose was a little crooked for awhile.. A year or two after that she chased a chipmunk that had been harassing her into a prickly pear cactus and had 12 cacti spines removed from her left eye. She was quite the hunter, just last week she caught her last of many chipmunks. You can add squirrels,rabbits and rodents to her list. She loved walks in Usery Park,her family,her sister Rowdy,chasing a ball,bacon treats we brought home after we went out to breakfast. She would cool off by jumping into the horse's water buckets. Put her and Rowdy in the back of the pickup truck after a trail ride, stop for breakfast and they wouldn't leave that truck. She loved children and always wanted to give them a big kiss. When she was a pup if she didn't want to go somewhere or do something she would lie on her back,roll over and we would have to drag her to her destination. She would bite Trey in the head when she was a pup and she wanted to be left alone. LOL,Trey was glad when she outgrew that. She loved Trey and missed him when he went into the Marine Corp.

She was a happy soul who would actually smile at you. She earned her "cattle dog" stripes for sure. Cowgirl you blessed our lives beyond measure. You will be missed,always loved,never forgotten. I know Rowdy was waiting for you on the other side today

Cow, how joyous your reunion! There will be some herding in heaven tonight!

Nixin's Manicure

2011-04-15T11:41:00.001-07:00

Charlotte took Nixin to have her nails polished. Looks like she is liking it! G-Mama wishes she could have gone with but I was holding my horses for their dates with the farrier to get their hoofs done! We know there will be a next time from the looks of this! Luv it!

Cutter VS 100 Dollar Bill

2011-04-15T08:15:00.001-07:00

This is a picture (I know it is upside down) of 95% of a 100 dollar bill. Every morning Steve likes to lay his keys,his wad of money,his belt and whatever else he is taking to work that day,on the floor of his office by the door. He came into the bedroom with his hands in a cupping position holding the remnants of his 100 dollar bill. He said;"I didn't know he was in the house!" Of course he was referring to our puppy,Cutter.

I taped the bill together and took it to the bank for them to exchange it for me. We used to do that when I worked at the bank. I was informed that I had to send the bill into the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington DC with a letter of explanation and send it registered mail which cost me 13.50.

It has been determined that Cutter has expensive taste!

Bull Dog Canyon

2011-03-26T21:56:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a couple of my recent horse experiences.About a week and a

half ago I went on a horseback ride with my friend Mary. Mary and I have been in the same ward for almost 6 years. We were visiting teaching partners for a little over a year.

Mary rides horses and she has an Arabian gelding and a half Arabian filly about the same age as my Psynna. Mary trained her and started her under saddle. Let me tell you a little something about Mary. She is probably close to 60 and a Home Ecc teacher. She loves to ride horses and she is an endurance rider, which means she competes in endurance rides that can be 25 or 50 miles long at a trot or canter for most of the ride. For six years she has invited me to go riding with her and I have always declined stating that;"I don't ride like you do". She asked me again about two weeks ago at our Empty Nester Family Home Evening. I thought;"What the heck, just do it!" So we trailered out to Bull Dog Canyon and it was a ride that I had never done before. It is 6 miles in and of course,6 miles out and we did it at an extended trot or canter. As we were riding Mary said; "I thought you said you couldn't ride like me but you are doin it." I replied;"I said I didn't ride like you not that I couldn't!

I enjoyed our ride so much. I hadn't felt as free riding since my youth! I did actually get thrown off my horse Santannah for the first time but I survived with some ugly bruises and thats another story!

As I said, I enjoyed the ride so I decided Teri ,Ken and I needed to head out there on Friday,which we did. We did the ride at a walk for the most part. In Arizona we don't have a lot of opportunities to cross water. We rode to the river and I was proud of Santannh as he went into the water!

Ken riding Teri's horse Big Jim through the water. He takes to water like a duck. He hails from Kentucky and is used to water.

Ken on his horse Polk.

Bull Dog Canyon=

2011-03-26T21:55:00.001-07:00

Spur Meets His Montana

2011-02-28T18:08:00.001-08:00

Spur is such a good boy. He was very interested in Montana yet very calm and cautious. He did sneak in a kiss or two. I think these two will be best buddies and have some great times and a little mischief!

SHE TOOK HER SWEET TIME!

2011-02-27T08:05:00.001-08:00

Welcome Montana Louise Spencer. She arrived February 26,2011 @ 7lbs,9oz,20in.

They say good things happen to those that wait. In this case I would say that is absolutely true! Montana was a little late coming (maybe 10 days) but she is here,healthy,beautiful and content.

Props to Jenna who had a long labor and delivery with the flu! She is a champ!

It will be so much fun to watch Montana learn and grow with her wonderful parents Trey and Jenna.

Proud Daddy. Looks like Trey knows what he is doing.
After 24 hours of no sleep Trey is ready to nap with Montana.

G-Mama lovin this. My baby's baby!

Congrats to Grandma Janine. This is her first grand baby and as Toni said to me, "She will steel your heart ." Looks like she already has stolen Janine's.

Auntie Melissa who came all the way from Africa and made it here in time for delivery. Maybe that's what Montana was waiting for!

We feel so blessed to have this new little spirit come into our lives. We are thankful that Jenna and Montana are doing well. This is the beginning of a long,fabulous journey! Oh, Spur wanted me to tell you he is excited to meet his baby girl. I know he is going to like her a lot more than he likes my baby boy Cutter!

Disneyland with the "Gunnell Boys"

2011-01-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

Steve and I went to Disneyland with Ryan,Julie,Crew,Cole and Cash. Did we ever have a fabulous time! I know I have posted a lot-ta-lot of pics but everyone was having such a good time and lets face it these boys are too cute. Just had to do it!

1 Crew and Cole were collecting signatures and you need Mickey's!
Crew wanted to know why Cruella was so mean to him....need to watch the movie again Crew, she is mean. She wanted to know if the boys were from the same litter and if Cash was the runt! LOL.

Yep, Steve actually wore a Mickey Mouse shirt. I was proud of him.

My new fav ride is in California Adventure...Toy Story or Woody ride.

Cash wasn't having anything to do with this guy.

More Cash's speed.

You get to stuff as many potato head pieces in a box and as long as it closes 19.95!

Cash was OK here. First 3-D image that came flying his way did him in. He was saying BYE-BYE, meaning get me outta here Mom!

Bunch of HAMS!

Cash's first cotton candy, won't be his last!

One Ear Up!

2011-01-26T04:01:00.001-08:00

The ears of a Queensland Heeler are supposed to stand straight up. Yes, they are rather large but they serve as air conditioning,cool the body down. When they are born they fold over and it is always with great anticipation that we wait with the hope that they will indeed stand up. As you can see, Cutter now has one ear up and the other two-thirds of the way!

Cowgirl and Cutter In Usery Park

2011-01-16T19:01:00.000-08:00

Yes you will tire of my puppy postings! This is Cutter's second walk in Usery Park. Cowgirl is a good teacher. Normally she just runs on ahead of me but she is actually taking it slow so Cutter can follow along. He did have a run in with cactus and the cactus won! He let me pull it out and we were off again!

2011-01-14T19:49:00.000-08:00

I went to look at Queensland Heeler puppies in Queen Creek.

When I walked into the backyard here they came. I saw Cutter and knew I wanted him.

Heidi told me that Cutter was the first born,the first to walk,the first to run.

This was on 1/11/11

He was the ONE!

Introducing Cutter!

2011-01-14T19:11:00.000-08:00

Cowgirl said;"You got me what? I don't believe I recall specifically asking for a puppy"..........

I'll show this pup a ittle something about playing ball!

So what if I was a little sore the next day.

Craig and Tracy's Visit

2011-01-14T18:58:00.000-08:00

Craig and Tracy came to visit over New Year's. Our fabulous winter weather was M.I.A. It was so cold! We enjoyed meeting Tracy and getting to know her. She certainly was very patient as Craig and I worked on our "Fruit Ninja" addictions.My high is still only 433. I have a ways to go to beat Craig's 548! Definitely, "Good times,noodle salad"!

Jenna and Montana's Baby Shower

2010-12-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

I have fallen a little behind. I'm trying to catch up my posting. We have had so many fun things happening this past month. One of the best was Jenna and Montana's baby shower on Dec. 5th.

It was a lot of fun, with good food,entertainment and fab gifts for Montana.

The cow print blanket goes with the cow bedding we gave to Montana.

Jenna and her Mom, Janine. I know having her Mom there made the day extra special for Jenna. She came a long way!

This picture does not do this outfit justice. Black and white zebra,trimmed in red tutu and a matching cap! For sure a photo opp outfit!

Luv the cowgirl duds.

Jenna's Mom gave her Jenna's baby quilt and the one Jenna is holding was Janine's quilt.

Charlotte made this board to hold hair bows. Turned out just awesome.

Some played the multi-tasj game. You were timed while you held the baby and fed the baby while holding your drink,talking on the phone and hanging the laundry. There were those who spilled their drink and those who mangled the baby. Janine showing her skill.

Does that baby look very comfortable? I think Jenna has her in a headlock!

This gal, sorry don't remember her name has 5 children and she won this hands down!

Rowdy Oct.20th 1999--Dec.15th 2010

2010-12-15T15:34:00.000-08:00

My heart is breaking having to put Rowdy to rest today but her spirit is soaring! She will never be forgotten,deeply missed,always loved! Rest in Peace my sweet,sweet girl. Til we meet again!

My Rowdy Girl

2010-12-13T21:06:00.000-08:00

Isn't she magnificent!

I took these pictures in November while hiking in Usery Park
Not to be left out ,Cowgirl AKA the Huntress, Rowdy's sister.

Don't really want to pose for pictures, we wants to run!

I knew I was taking the picture into the sun but I wanted the Superstition Mountains in the background.

Rowdy Girl, I luv ya! You are one of the World's Greatest Dogs. Always faithful, always loyal,always there,always the athlete,always watching over the horses.

I have been privileged to be your caretaker for 11 years.

We have shared walks around the neighborhood,walks in Usery Park,trips to the river for a swim.horseback rides starting when you were so small half way thru our ride we would pick you up and drape you across our saddle horns because you were so tuckered out, you were only 12 weeks old. You might run ahead occasionally but you would always circle back to check on us.

I remember how you cried all the way home from the stables as I carried Cowgirl after my horse, Tazzaz, stepped on her and broke her leg. You were both 3 months old.

There were many times you sat with me,comforted me, as I cried over the ironies and cruelties of life.

You have never judged me,just loved me unconditionally. I always knew you would give your life for me if needed. Remember how you would go after Trey when he would pretend to smack me?

You could jump our six foot fence. I had to laugh at the neighbor who came to tell us that we must have something pushed up against our fence because you would be up on top walking the fence line. I told him there wasn't anything pushed up against the fence you could easily clear that fence. You only went over to chase a cat and when I would come home from work you would be sitting at the front door.

I used to love coming home from work to look out the window and see you swimming laps around the pool. You could pull yourself out of the pool by placing your paws on the cool deck. It was amazing. Funny how you loved to swim yet hate a bath.

I have seen very few dogs that would or could jump as high for a Frisbee.

How did you know when we would come home from going out to breakfast and we had bacon to give you? We could have just gone to Sam's Club ya know!

Yes, you were schooled after you killed Bro Ellsworth's chicken and you have never killed anything since (unlike your sister,Cowgirl).

There is so much more to do,sadly it turns we won't have the time in mortality. However,our journey my friend is not over.

Rowdy was diagnosed Sunday with Lymphoma and she will be with us for only a short time.

I'm Thankful For My Family

2010-11-28T12:37:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving hosted by Trey and Jenna!

Thanks guys, a good time was had by all plus the food was delicious! This was my first deep fried turkey and it was one of the best I have ever eaten.

Jenna was very ambitious being pregnant with their first baby, Montana and feeding all of us.

I know I have a lot pf pictures posted but there was a lot going on,check it out!

The kids collected eggs and fed the chickens. Crew was going to eat his egg for breakfast the next morning while Cote sat on his to keep it warm,I think you know what happened there.

I don't know why but I felt the need to post this picture of guess who? Yep, its Charlotte coming over to check out the chickens! I luv it!

Spur was the perfect host for his dogie pals............

I honestly feel that Muggles had the very best time. I think she went home one exhausted pup!

Brinton's Bocce ball set had its maiden voyage......read on to see who won.

Check out that form and the lift on her ball.......Yep, Mom beat um ALL! You go girl!

Who hasn't enjoyed blowing the petals off a dandelion? Brexton has.

Sweet little Gracie........
Grouchy little Gracie but you had to see this outfit, soooo cute!

We had bouncy balls for the kids. Nixin drug her Princess ball around all day. I had to convince her to leave it on one side of the fence so we could go see the chickens.

She likes to bounce,bounce,bounce.

The boys enjoyed it also!

Mallory Scott Gunnell

2010-11-16T17:12:00.000-08:00

She's here! Mallory Scott Gunnell arrived Saturday November 13th,2010.

7lbs 12 oz, 21 inches long and thankfully, healthy.

Mallory is the daughter of Scott and Carrie Gunnell and she is just beautiful!

Scott and Carrie make beautiful babies.

I think Papa Steve is going to be wrapped around someone's little finger!

Annual Zoo Lights Party-Time!

2010-11-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my Mom who has been a Phoenix Zoo volunteer for the past 20 years we have been able to attend the Zoo Lights as a family on the volunteer and family night. It is far less crowded and we get to see it before most everyone else!

The Gang's all here. We missed Ryan,Julie and Crew who were involved in a Flag football game. I believe the kids beat the parents! Amanda was busy with her Young Women's calling. Props to Carrie who is due anytime with baby girl Mallory for walkin the Zoo Lights!

Thanks Mom,we love the Zoo and you!

Cash and his new girlfriend. They were hangin out for awhile!

Does anyone know why Charlotte is so happy? Uh, can you see she is eating kettle corn? Yep, that's all it takes! Yummy as Nixin would say! Trey is practicing pushing the stroller, hold on Brexton.

My Mom bought this brick for Brinton and Trey when they were very young boys and the Zoo was raising funds for a new bear enclosure. I do have the certificate somewhere with the date on it. We have a fun time looking for it at the entrance when we visit the Zoo.

Here is some of the new colors they had on display this year. I liked them!

Work it Brexton!

Annual Chili dinner and Pumpkin Carving

2010-10-31T20:05:00.000-07:00

Some Awesome Trick or Treaters!

Cote, Nixin and Brexton

Howdy Pardner

Uh, in case you can't tell, it's Martin!

Miller getting ready to ride!

The kids enjoyed PaPa's Pumpkin Express!

Gracie opened her eyes for a little while :)

How cute is this?

Amanda and Brannon brought the scarry desert

Trey and Jenna didn't want to leave Montana out

Brexton's Disneyland Birthday

2010-10-25T20:33:00.000-07:00

Brexton, A.K.A. The Troll, turned 5 on October 22nd! What better place to spend your birthday then the happiest place on earth, DISNEYLAND!

Everything about this day was perfect.

Cote was picked to be a Jedi warrior and Brexton was picked the 2nd time around. Thanks to Cote showing Brexton how to get r done Brexton was able to defeat Darth Vader and Cote Darth Mall. (My spelling could be off, not up on my Star Wars vocab) Brexton told me how he was chosen to be a Jedi warrior and I replied that I knew he had been chosen because they knew he would be an awesome Jedi and that the force was strong with him....he replied simply,"I Know"!

Nixin saw Princess Aurora,Jasmine and Belle. She was Princess struck! There is video below of her in her very own Snow White dress.

Cote and Brexton loved Splash Mountain. Cote laughed at Steve on the Matterhorn, Nixin made it through Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion and the Jungle Cruise without freakin out.Happy birthday little man!

We love you!

Happy Birthday Rowdy and Cowgirl!

2010-10-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

Thats right my favorite girl's turned 11 on October 20th! Cowgirl and Rowdy are the best dogs! Not to take away from Nana,Monique,Schyla or Sybil....they have all been wonderful. Where else have I ever gotten such unconditional love and loyalty? They are always happy to see me...even if I'm late or I've messed up somehow. Can't imagine our home without them.

Nixin Turns Two

2010-10-17T07:24:00.000-07:00

Steve and I were lucky to spend some time with Nixin on her 2nd birthday yesterday. Charlotte's brother got married yesterday and they decided Nixin would have a better time with G-Mama and Papa- Ha! She did indeed have a good time and so did we! We gave her her first dollhouse and it amazed me that she knew just what to do. She had the Daddy use the potty and then wash his hands; "Wash,wash". She wasn't sure about her cake and candles but that was just warm up for her party today. She was a delight at the mall with G-Mama where everyone thought she was adorable. She picked out a cute pink puppy pillow talk pillow.

Psynna, Jetta and Big Jim's Trail Ride

2010-10-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

Beautiful morning for a trail ride. Terri and Big Jim are gettin along just fine. That's Ken on Terri's filly Jetta. She is just three and Ken has started her. She is still green but she was awesome today.

My little filly Psynna keeps up with the big guys just fine. Great way to spend your mornings.

Gracie Jade Gunnell

2010-10-08T20:20:00.000-07:00

She's here, healthy and beautiful! Congrats Julie, Ryan and the boys! We are happy to have a little Gunnell GIRL!

Big Jim's 1st Trail Ride-Usery Park

2010-10-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

When I got to Terri's this morning riding Santannah, Terri had decided she wasn't going to take Big Jim out on the trail.....she wasn't ready. She wanted to ride around her property and get a little more familiar with Big Jim. So we did and he was doing mighty fine. So.....I pushed the issue and told Terri we needed to head out on the trail because Big Jim is a trail horse and lets get him out there. She reluctantly agreed (I've been there,know the feeling). Off we went. We saw a lot! Rabbits,quail,bikes on the trail,dogs at fences and on the trail,other horses and hikers. Big Jim did well with all of it. He even had his first experience with cactus and that was sooner than any of us wanted. A big piece of jumping cactus jumped up and grabbed a hold of Big Jim's front leg. He bolted so Santannah bolted. I was doing the one rein stop with Santannah looking over my shoulder to see how Terri and Big Jim were doing and they were headed up the mountain. I'm doing the one rein stop and yelling to Terri to one rein stop that horse......she did and Big Jim just calmed right down even though he still had a few spines in his leg. Terri feels much more confident now that she has taken him out and she knows she can stop him. Luv the one rein stop,used it many times! Terri and Big Jim will be great riding companions and the best thing is Terri feels that way too! Thanks to the hiker who stopped to take our picture.

Santannah and Big Jim Together

2010-10-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

Terri and I put Big Jim and my boy Santannah together for the first time this morning. We were hoping they would just get along because we intend to spend a lot of time together riding. Thank you they got along just fine! Neither one is aggressive. Tonight we will do a little arena riding together and tomorrow morning we will hit the trails. Coming from Kentucky this will be Big Jim's first trail ride in the desert.

Big Jims 1st Ride

2010-09-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

Terri and Big Jim went for their first of many rides today. Big Jim did everything Terri asked of him, he really wanted to please. It is kinda like driving a new car...you gotta know what buttons to push etc. Big Jim is getting used to Terri and Terri is getting used to Big JIm. I thought it was awesome. We luv Big Jim!

Big Jim Is Here!

2010-09-29T20:34:00.001-07:00

Here is the story of Big Jim.

My friend,neighbor and riding compadre Terri fell in love, I mean in love with a buckskin stallion she saw in Usery Park as she was riding one day....His name is Polk. She decided right then that she would buy a broodmare and breed her to Polk and pray she would get her buckskin.

Terri bought Sunny a dunn and bred Sunny to Polk. Sunny had a filly named Jetta. Jetta is wonderful but alas, she isn't a buckskin. So Terri bought Flashy who happens to be a buckskin and bred her to Polk. She also bred Sunny,again, just before Flashy.

Sunny had a beautiful colt,Rueger, but alas, Rueger isn't a buckskin. Wonder of wonders Flashy delivers a stunning BUCKSKIN colt named Brazen.

Oh happy day! All was wonderful or was it? Now Terri has young horses either very green or to young to ride.

Terri works hard.....Its a lot of work taking care of horses and where was the joy!

Now I was online looking at horses and I see a buckskin for sale that looked so much like Polk I did a double take. Yes, I showed the picture to Terri and she was hooked. Big Jim is a cousin to Polk. Big Jim is here all the way from Kentucky and we are very happy!

Hope to have pictures of Terri's first ride soon. Big Jim will be ready in a few days!

Galladin"s Dinner Guests

2010-09-12T18:55:00.001-07:00

I stepped outside and I saw Galladin eating in the arena with two dinner guests. I didn't think I would be able to get my camera let alone get close enough to snap a picture but I did. I do love livin out here!

Crew Carrying the Ball

2010-09-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post this with the others ......Crew carries the ball at the end of this clip.

Crew's 1st Flag Football Game

2010-09-11T18:30:00.000-07:00

Crew played his first flag football game and it was victory 24-0! Crew scored a touchdown,he ran pretty much the entire field to score. After his touchdown he told me;"Offense is awesome!". He got three flags, two in the first three plays of the game. Way to go Crew! Can you tell he loves his mouthguard? Not!

Our Labor Day Ride

2010-09-06T15:12:00.001-07:00

Steve and I went for our Labor Day Ride early this morning. This is my Arabian gelding, Santannah and Steve rode his Arabian gelding Galladin. Steve took this picture just as we were leaving and I didn't take my camera with me on the trail. We had some cloud cover which helped with the heat. We had a good time, Steve ended up with a very sore back but I'm glad he went.

Dinner and the Phoenix Art Museum

2010-09-05T19:05:00.000-07:00

Brinton invited us to go to "The Old Spaghetti Factory" for dinner and visit the Phoenix Art Museum. We rode the ligth rail to the Spaghetti Factory and a short walk to the museum. It was a fun evening. Thanks Brinton! Good times,noodle salad!

Cote found an "old" phone booth. Wow, even I remember these booths.
This is how Nixin eats her ice cream from a bowl. She got it all!

Yeah, we like elevators. Well, everyone but my Dad, he was taking the stairs.

Great pic Mom! Should be your new profile picture. I'll e-mail it to you.

This was a moving tree. As the guy exiting the elevator said;"See the tree, it is moving through the cycle of LIFE"!

Steve's fav picture at the museum - Ha!

When The Grandkids Come To Stay

2010-09-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

Brexton is now an expert driver of the "Hummer". Looks like he was gonna beat PaPa in the golf cart!

Cote spent a lot of time shooting his air guns at the target. He can shoot!
We put together puzzles.

Paint ginormous insects.........

We have a great time!

Psynna and Galladin

2010-09-05T18:37:00.001-07:00

I put Galladin and Psynna together in the arena for the first time since she was a filly. This picture was taken after I removed Psynna from the arena. She is the Alpha mare for sure and she was pushing Galladin all around.......He can hold his own but its funny to see my "little girl" bossin around the big boys........

This is a dare, come on up a little closer so I can kick you....he is actually thinking about it!

Robyn and Rhonda

2010-08-19T21:37:00.001-07:00

Robyn and Rhonda were best friends 7th Grade thru 12th Grade. We lived two doors down from each other and we both had horses then and now.

We went our separate ways.........for THIRTY YEARS!

We have reconnected online and Steve and I were able to visit Robyn and her husband Don at their home in Deheasa Valley,CA on our way home from Pacific Beach.

It was awesome to see Robyn again and spend time with her. We will have more good times to come! Steve and Don had a lot in common (baseball and politics). Robyn and I had other things to talk about -LOL!

Hello Again!

Don, Robyn,Sadie and ? (I forgot) inside their barn that Don built.

Rooster Man, Robyn's Tennessee Walker and Zeke,Don's horse.

Pacific Beach

2010-08-19T21:27:00.001-07:00

Steve and i went to Pacific Beach and spent a few days with Doug and Ellen. We had a fabulous time! The company was GREAT and the weather was unbelievable...averaged around 75 degrees! Home was 107 plus.......Ugg!

This picture is La Jolla. There were a few seals swimming right off shore.

We had some great meals (Yogurt Land!),bike rides,took in a movie and best of all spent the day at the Del Mar Racetrack. It was the first time Ellen had ever been, not sure about Doug. Steve had a great day.......he won 400 bucks! Yeah!

Do Steve and Doug look like brothers or what?

Steve, Ellen and Doug

The San Diego Temple

My New Bedding

2010-08-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

My hubby refuses to give up our bedroom set while I on the other hand am ready for a change. No new bedroom set so I got new bedding! I think I like it! He He!

Beautiful Night!

2010-08-08T19:49:00.001-07:00

Cowgirl's lookin pretty happy! She likes the sunset too.

I like Rowdy hangin in one of her fav spots.

It was kinda a miserable day but I went outside to tuck in the horses and this is what I saw. Its a beautiful night! Glad I took the time to look up.

Do Ya Wanna Kick Some Dirt?

2010-08-01T20:05:00.001-07:00

Joanne, Jeni and Ethan came by for a visit. Trey and Jenna stopped by. Here's Trey's pony,Spur. Just hanging out in his corral having a long drink from the water trough!

Ethan wanted to see the horses and he wanted them to eat the carrots but he was gonna watch from someplace safe...with his Mom. smart kid, they are big aren't they Ethan?

Galladin our handsome boy!

I'll be darn....There are turtles under this cover! What are we supposed to do with them? Ethan told me the turtle was in a rock (his shell) and he wanted me to get him out. Had to laugh as I explained it was his shell.

And Ethan wins by a paw or foot.

Ethan likes to kick dirt. He can entertain himself for a very long time....kicking dirt. Guess what? We have an abundance of dirt out our way. It was fun to have Ethan, Jeni and Joanne. I really liked the big hugs,kisses and awwwws he gives you.

This is a very large playpen for anyone who likes to kick dirt!

Hay Is For Horses!

2010-07-31T15:24:00.000-07:00

Time for our annual hay purchase. I'm going to put the logistics of this transaction on my blog as I can never find the receipt when it comes time to buy again next year. Steve always wants to know when we bought the last hay and how much we paid. 64 bales of grass hay @9.50 per and 64 bales of alfalfa @ 8.00 per bale. Thanks Trey for the help. Trey and Steve had the first 64 bales put away and stacked in 30 minutes and the next 64 in 45 minutes! We couldn't have done it without ya.....well we coulda but it would have taken a lot longer. Ha! I love my handsome boys.

Santannah was helping put it away his way.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TREY!

2010-07-25T08:55:00.001-07:00

Trey is "25"

I don't know where the time has gone......Trey is my baby? CRAZY

We went to Flagstaff to CELEBRATE Trey's big day. Did I mention how cool the weather was in Flag. We had rain on the way home too!Look how Brinton distrusts us...all we wanted was for him to smell the pine tree.

We went to a bird show and on a little nature walk. The gangs almost all here.

Trey's self portrait.

Charlotte liked the pine tree, uh a lot. Weird.

We decided this pine tree smelled like butterscotch. A new flavor.

This is a Nixin hug. I luv it when she does this and its usually at a dead run.

Nixin loves her PaPa!

They had two Ravens that were trained to take a folded dollar bill from you and place it in the container. Smart birds the raven.

Nixin didn't want to do this at first but she finally did give the Raven a dollar.

Awesome!

Little imps with a little imp.

Umm, not sure exactly what Jenna and Nixin were doing but they had a good time.

Here is the nature portion of our walk.....There was much more. They had a plant called Lamb's ear. The leaves were as soft as a new born lamb. Unbelievable.

We went to Boot Barn and I tried these boots on Nixin. When it came time to put her shoes back on I tried but she said "No, boots"! Whatz G-Mama goin to do......give her the boots! They light up when she walks. Too cute! Brexton and Cote got walking sticks for our next hike.

We ended with a great dinner at Salsa Brava.

We luv you Trey and Jenna!

The Calgary Stampede

2010-07-18T14:28:00.001-07:00

We had a fabulous time at The Calgary Stampede! I wanted to experience it once in my lifetime and now I can cross it off my "bucket list". Don't have too many pics as the action is way to fast to capture and we did have some rain on and off. We attended the Rodeo, the Chuck Wagon races, participated in a Flap Jack flip and catch competition,did some sight seeing, had the best prime rib dinner of my life and the worst two hamburgers on the face of the planet(truly the worst) lots of walking,watched a cutting horse competiton, a miniature horse show (Amanda would have loved it) saw Bill Anderson of the Grand Ole Opry perform,a grandstand show with singing,dancing,motor cross and fireworks. WoW!

I found the people of Avatar in Calgary Canada! Very friendly........

Makutu's Island with the Boys

2010-07-18T14:17:00.001-07:00

Steve and I had a great time with Cote, Crew, Brexton and Cole. We took them to Makutu's Island where everyone had fun climbing,playing games and eating pizza. Crew showed us all how to play Deal or no Deal! Then the boys spent the night and we went to see "The karate Kid" movie and In N Out burger for lunch.

We missed Martin as he was out of town...I guess we will had to do it again!

Torreon with Brent and Judy

2010-07-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

Steve and I spent a short weekend at the cabin with our goodfriends and traveling compadres the Hanks the end of June. We took a drive around the area up thru Taylor to the Temple in Snowflake. The country and small towns and this old schoolhouse reminded me of Panaca. It made me want to visit. We had a very nice weekend.

Cowgirls Nemisis

2010-06-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

I came home last week and Cowgirl was going nuts out at Kya's cage. I looked out the window and on top of the cage was a squirrel. Steve noticed that she is a nursing mom. Cow was on top of the spa trying to get at Mama squirrel. She obviously came to feed off of Kya's dropped fruit and seeds. I locked Cowgirl up so mama could make her escape. We came home today to find Cow back on top of the spa because Mama squirrel was back. She is living in the wash between Teri's place and ours. Hope she steers clear of our Cowgirl.

Kya is in the upper left corner.Not sure what to think about mama squirrel.

I have been so excited that our Jacaranda tree bloomed this year. The first one we planted died in the frost a few years ago having never bloomed. We planted this one but it failed to bloom last year (pretty scrawny)......but this year its BLOOMIN AWESOME!

Family Fun In Puerto Penasco

2010-06-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

We had another fun family trip to Rocky Point. Almost everyone was able to come.

There was sliding,swimming,sliding,the beach,sliding,eating,sliding,shopping,sliding,relaxing,sliding,boogie boarding,sliding,skim boarding, sliding,massages,sliding,tattoos and did I mention sliding?

Sorry, I know I have lots of pictures posted......couldn't help myself!

Trey is not diving into shallow water, he is standing on the tree.........

Our braids. Nixin did so good, Jenna on the other hand......just kidding!

Cote's new sunglasses, they are neon green on the sides.

Awwwww!

Our babies, Cash and Nixin.

Nixin and Jenna sunbathing!

Cash warmed up to swimming and was jumping in to Ryan.

Papa Steve relaxing........

Nixin got a new purse.....

Our trip to the Rocky Point Sea World as Steve likes to call it.

Something was yummy!

We luv, luv breakfast at Xochites!

Cookouts