President Bush Summer Home on Walkers Point in Kennebunkport, Maine

Sitting on a small peninsula, the Bush Compound at Walkers Point is beautiful. I can't imagine waking up to such a magnificent sight each morning. The house is spectacular. However, it doesn't compare with the beauty that surrounds it. The ocean waves crash over the rocky shore creating a soothing sound. On the east is the ocean. On the west are incredible homes(The sad part for most of us is that these homes are summer homes. A majority of them only have residents sporadically. Some of them are gigantic.). Protestors are going to miss coming to such a beautiful place on earth. The residents of Kennebunkport will probably be relieved.

There is a main house, and then several other buildings. As you get closer to the road, there is a guard house with a formidable gate. There is always a well-known black suv parked near the guard house.

I cut the gate and guard house out of picture, but if you could keep moving to the left on your screen, you would soon come to the guard house. I am sure you noticed that there is really no fence because the natural barriers provide good protection. It really is even more beautiful when the leaves and the grass are green. I know it will never happen, but it would be wonderful to actually take a tour, and see how the other half lives.

Christmas 2008

Well another year has come and gone. Carrying on traditions that you have celebrated as an extended family can be quite challenging when you are down to five. We have tried, but things are never quite the same. On Christmas Eve, we had the traditional clam chowder and chicken noodle soup, but alas no oyster stew or spahettios. Next year I will get the spahettios, but I have no idea how to make oyster stew. We missed the recitation of Carol's "Ode to Oyster Stew," and Bob's "Rebuttal," but we are sure the poems were read. If anyone taped them, send them our way. I would really love to have them for posterity especially Kaleb. I would be happy with even a written copy of the poems. We could even try to recite them. I should have taken a few pictures, but I didn't think, and I knew I would get in trouble for using my Christmas present too early. Next Year????!!!!!

The rest of the night was quiet. We are used to lots of noise and confusion. This is quite an adjustment. Finally, it was time for bed, and the excitement of Christmas morning. At 6:00 A.M. , Jamie burst into our room and turned on the light. She couldn't take it any longer. At least it was an hour more than we used to get. I opened my present first(like on Saturday, December 20. I had to figure out how to use it.).



Jame and Dylan finally got their phones. Jake and I have been holding out as long as possible. Thank heaven Dylan is such a patient and understanding young man.

Kaleb was a bit surprised to get this gun because we didn't even have a system to use it with.

However that all changed very quickly!

By the time we were done, this is what Jake and I looked like. You don't think I am crazy enough to put a picture of myself zonked out like this. Besides Jake is sooooooo much more handsome.

Christmas Day was as quiet as Christmas Eve. We played games, and had dinner, but we missed all the love and excitement of family. We missed the prime rib and the story about the man with his bag. We did get to watch Jase open his presents with the webcam, and talk with Josh, Che, Zach, and Carly. The age of technology brings a little of that excitement into our home. I hope that all of you had a very Merry Christmas.

Snow (Blizzard) Day!

Weather is a strange and fascinating thing. Most of the time it is pleasant and nice: a few snowflakes here, a raindrop or two there. Sunshine abounds. There are those times though when Mother Nature is just outright angry (maybe playful), I guess. Yesterday was one of those days. Apparently if I were a true "Mainer," I would already have experienced these kinds of storms which were common years ago. I, however, come from the desert. At least, I didn't realize it until we moved here. I only remember it snowing like this once in Utah about 18 years ago. It was my only snow day in a 16 year teaching career in Weber County. This is the second snow day this year! I am highly amused that I have to go to school tomorow. One day this week and it just happens to be a Tuesday.

Living in a nice, comforting home, I can appreciate with awe and amazement anything Mother Nature does. When the snow began to fall, we were at church. With about an hour of church left, the branch president dismissed church and urged everyone to hurry home. On a normal day it is a 25 minute drive. Needless to say, it took us a bit longer yesterday. ( I keep hoping we will change times, but 9:00 is our time every Sunday. That's what I get for being so spoiled!!!!)

We did arrive home safely, and watched as the snow kept falling. We couldn't believe the snow attached to the windows, and it just kept falling.

Kaleb wanted in on the picture taking, so I told him to stand real still because I wasn't using a flash and it would take a second. Obviously it was a little difficult for him, but the rest of the picture is in focus.

Outside the storm rages, while I am tucked in my warm and comfy home.

When we awoke the next morning, about 16 inches of snow covered our yard. It was a beautiful sight. The pine trees were bent from the snow perched atop their branches, and the barren trees had grown a white leaf. Jake and Dylan dressed in their warmest snow clothes, and began the arduous task of diggin us out. Two hours later, the snow was moved.

What a cushy pillow that would be if only it wasn't sooooo cold!

The snow was packed in the wheels of the four-wheeler. When Jake had finished, there was so much snow that the plow got stuck in the up position. Thank heaven the cable wasn't broken because I think we will be needing it a little.

This will make for a dandy white Christmas. It really doesn't get much better unless you are with family.

Alas the days of Summer!

As I sit here watching the snow swirling around outside, staring at the piles of snow, hoping I don't lose my power, wondering if I will have school tomorrow, knowing we probably won't have school, and wishing my Christmas shopping was done, my mind wanders to a time that seems so far removed from today. Summer! As a family, we have had so much fun at the beach. The water never gets real warm, but warm enough to swim in by July. A smile spread across my face as I watched the videos of summers past. I can't wait to go looking for hermit crabs, starfish, and strange creatures. I can't wait to wander in the ocean hoping you don't feel anything wriggle beneath your feet. I can't wait to go looking for seashells. I can't wait to watch Jake fishing and the kids swimming. I will enjoy where I'm at, and be glad for the snow. However, I hope you get as much enjoyment out of this video as I did.
Happy Snow Days!!!!

If you can't beat them, join them!

Jake and I have never been too fond of video games. We did buy a game system some 27 years ago, and Jake enjoyed playing Mario's world. He was a little obsessed with it, but after he beat the game, he was done with video games.

We have thoroughly despised the games believing them to be an absolute waste of time, and so what do our boys do. You guessed it. Being part of the technology generation, they love them. We bought only the one game system, and ever since then if the boys wanted a game system, they bought it. Well, Dylan got him a little job at Shaw's, and saved the money and bought an Xbox 360. Games have come a long way in 27 years. Jake has finally relented and plays them every now and then. I am really bad, so I don't play often, but I did a pretty good job with MarioKart. I was quite amused tonight, as Dylan donned his headphones and began to play. Low and behold, Josh and Zach were on as well. It is amazing that they can actually talk to each other as they play. Jake decided he wasn't going to miss out on the fun, so he joined them. I couldn't resist.

Dylan and Jake are in Maine playing Zach and Josh in Utah. Unfortunately for Kaleb they could only have four players, so as usual he was stuck watching. He is a pretty good sport about it.

All I can say is HAPPY PLAYING!!

The Ice Storm!!

Being a relatively new transplant to New England has proven to be an exciting an adventure. We left the security of the mountains(and Kaleb's constant worry about earthquakes) to the security of trees and trees and more trees(and Kaleb's constant worry about hurricanes and sharks). We left a desert for a MUCH wetter place. I think it has rained here more in the past three years than in Utah my entire life. The word rain would include snow, sleet, hail, ice, freezing rain, etc. but mostly rain. On December 12 a major ice storm strolled up the coast. There was a small ice storm last year, but it didn't amount to much,but it was impressive.(That storm or any other storm gets all seasoned New Englanders reminiscing about the storm of '98. Yea, I don't know either, but apparently it was a doozy. I can't wait to get to school on Monday to hear the comparisons. ) The storm began late Thursday afternoon. A bizarre kind of moisture fell from the air. It was not snow or rain, but a wet ice that sticks to everything. I was so glad to get home, and then fretted until Jake got home. As we prepared for bed, the kids were excited about the prospect of a snow day(another story for my fellow Utahns). The night went well. I lay in bed listening to the freezing rain fall. It doesn't sound like rain or hail, but something in between the two. I tossed and turned all night wondering what would happen in the morning. Finally about 5 A.M. a text message on my phone announcing that Brunswick schools were closed. Now, if I was smart, I would have showered right then, but since I have no common sense. I got on the computer to watch for Durham's closing, and to get the confirmation from the Brunswick phone system. About 5:45 all was in, and I prepared to shower, but it was not to be. The power went out at 5:55. Thank heaven I didn't have soap in my hair. Living in the boonies does have its disadvantages. We are on a well, so we need the power to run the pump for the sewer or the furnace or the water, or the stove. Get the picture!! Needless to say, no power! No Pump! Therefore, we have to be careful how much we use the sewer system. No problem! I will shower when the power comes back on. Well, 29 hours later I finally got my shower. We were lucky! Some people didn't get the power on until December 17.

I decided that pictures could tell a better story at least one that is not as long-winded. Being the absolute moron that I am, I donned a most becoming outfit, combed a perfect hairdo, and meticulously applied my makeup (NOT!) and ventured forth into the wilderness. (I don't know why I am subjecting myself to such humiliation, but hopefully it will bring a smile to your face.) Hopefully these pictures will give you some insight not for how to dress, but the ice storm.

From the rains in July to the ice and water of December, our front yard has been a constantly changing wonder. Broken branches litter the front yard and I am not sure if we will be able to remove them before spring.

The lovely white stuff on the trees is not snow, but ice. Snow weighs trees down, but ice seems to push them to the brink of collapse. It was amazing to drive around after the storm and see the trees bent to the edge of breaking, and the actual number of broken limbs and branches around.

I remember the first time I saw the ice on the trees. As the sun shone upon the trees, the ice sparkled. It was almost as if the trees had been coated in plastic to protect them from the elements. I was in awe at the beauty of this phenomenon. I must admit it that even though the storm was dangerous and caused lots of problems, it was beautiful when the sun came out the next day.

The next day as I wandered around taking more pictures, it was extremely eery to walk out in the woods with the popping and cracking of branches and ice.

"See" What Is Important!

As the "hustle and bustle" of Christmas is upon us, make sure to take the time to remember the things that really matter. When you feel the pressure of all your responsiblities bearing down upon you, take a load off your mind and REMEMBER what matters most. I often get so bogged with the things I have to do that I fail to notice those simple little things that bring and brought me such genuine joy. As I was looking through my pictures trying so desperately trying to figure out what I could blog, I found these simple but joyous pictures. I realized that THESE GUYS are the reasons I do what I do and the ones who matter most. NO, it doesn't matter that his face is a mess, or the water is freezing and its raining, or that he could catch a cold, or that she loves to pout especially when she doesn't get her way, they are the ones who truly bring me happiness. The way they can find joy in such simple things like a buoy, or a kiss from their father. Their mischievious streak that pushes you to the brink of insanity. The frustration of taking a picture when everyone but ONE seems to be playing their part, or that everyone ends up in your bedroom because the house you are sleeping in just has to be haunted. These are the things that will remain with us forever.

Driving to and from who knows where, I was listening to John Tesch's radio program. The Christmas music was beautiful, but what he said really struck home. "As you are searching for the perfect gift, remember that the newness of that sweater will wane, and the grandness of that Porsche will disappear, but the memories we make will last forever. That vacation in a broken down van with lots of joy and laughter will remain forever." The excitement of hearing the "Ode to Oyster Stew" and "The Rebuttal" will bring a smile to your face each holiday season. The story of the man with his bag of Christmas things will be remembered when you see a candy cane, a wreath, or a star, so while you are running here and there, take the time to create those memories that will last a lifetime and beyond.

Thanks to all of you who have taken the time to create memories with me. I will be forever blessed by all the wonderful memories that I have. May you have a Merry Christmas, and in the words of Jon Bon Jovi, "Ya wanna make a memory."

Christmas Tag!

TAG: Christmas edition of getting to know your friends.

My daughter-in-law, Cheloni tagged me with this Christmas post. Since I am getting much better at doing things like this, I am willing to meet the challenge. Here goes!!!! Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your friends. Here is what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a SCROOGE!!! Copy this entire post and paste into a new post. Change all the answers so that they apply to you. Send this to a whole bunch of people you know......'tis the season to be NICE!
1. wrapping paper or gift bags? definitely WRAPPING! Besides your birthday what other time of year do you get to open soooooo many presents.

2. real tree or artificial? Artificial. I would love a real tree, but Jake is afraid the house will burn down. Now that we live in Maine, we are apparently the odd men out for having a fake tree. I guess you are supposed to cut your own!!!!

3. when do you put up the tree? During Thanksgiving break. If it doesn't go up then, it may not get done.

4. when do you take the tree down? During Christmas break. If it doesn't come down then, who knows when it will get done!!!!

5. do you like eggnog? yes! However, every time I go to get some, it seems to have disappeared. It guess everyone around here likes eggnog!

6. favorite gift received as a child? Hmmm! Do I have to pick one? There are so many. I would probably have to say Chatty Kathy(fits me doesn't it. I hope I didn't get this for my birthday. When you are as old as I am, everything blends together.) She was my favorite doll for a long time. My mom gave her to me a while back, and Jake sent it to the dumps. Jake just isn't as sentimental as I am. Yes, he was in the doghouse for a while!!!!!

7. do you have a nativity scene? Of course. Jake's parents gave each of his family a nativity set about 20 years ago. Ours is still in great shape!
8. hardest person to buy for? Parents. They always seem to have everything, and I am so busy worrying about myself, I never take the time to listen.

div>9. easiest person to buy for? My kids! I only wish I had more money to spend.

10. mail or email christmas cards? Mail. However, I must admit that until we moved I had never sent Christmas cards, but now I look forwarding to sending them, but even more important I look forward to receiving them.
11. worst christmas gift you ever received? One waffle stomper! For you younglings out there, they were equivalent to Uggs back in the 70's. My parents thought it would be oh so hilarious to give me only one. Needless to say I was devastated. However, I do remember getting the other one later in the day. Someone needs to make sure and ask my brother, Bruce about his worst Christmas present. It would probably be the doll he got!!! (You will have to ask him "why."
12. favorite Christmas movie? Charlie Brown's Christmas. If only we could have that same spirit and see the beauty of others.
13. when do you start shopping for christmas? I usually do everything at the last minute. That is when we have the money!
14. have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No!

15. favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Cathedral cookies. I love the german chocolate and the colored marshmallows.
16. clear lights or colored on the tree ? Color.

17. favorite Christmas song? The Christmas Shoes by Newsong. This always brings tears to my eyes.
18. travel at Christmas or stay home? For the first 26 years we traveled to each parent's house. However, last year and unfortunately I do believe that this year we will be home. Don't forget how much I love all of you1!!!

19. can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? DUH!! Only if I get to sing the song though.

20. angel on the tree top or a star? Star.
21. open the presents Christmas eve or morning? We have always spent Christmas Eve at the Jeppsons and opened presents. On Christmas, we open presents at the Andersens. When all of us Jeppsons were much younger(and dumber) we would get up early and go to Jeppsons to open presents. The best Christmas morning had to be the year, Jake's sister, Susie made rubber band guns for everyone. What a hoot! We had a great time shooting each other with the guns.
22. most annoying thing about this time of year? rude people in stores, expect to wait it line (This is Che's line, but I agree 100%.) I can't do Black Friday because people turn into animals and forget the real purpose of Christmas. I am a wimp!

23. favorite ornament theme or color? I love color! I would probably pick red though. My mom's tree was always flocked with red ornaments, and what a beautiful tree it is.
24. favorite for Christmas dinner? grandma's prime rib! its delicious!(I agree with Che! I hope she is talking about my mom???)

25. what do you want for Christmas this year?On the material side: a new dslr camera. On the sentimental side: For next year to be as good to everyone as this year has!!!!!!
26. who are you going to tag for this Christmas questionnaire?? I would love for anyone who reads this to take the time to do this. This was actually quite fun.

May you all have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

and

May you all remember the purpose of "Christ"mas!!!

Salem

Living near so much history has been quite the experience, and we have so much more to see. I guess it would have been better to put this up at Halloween, but I didn't think about it until I started thinking about the pilgrims. It is hard to believe that people could work themselves into such a frenzy over a false accusation. I would like to believe that as a society we have worked ourselves past such things, but I was appalled at the death of a Walmart worker this past Friday as thousands mobbed a store to save a buck or two. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family of this man.

Salem has a rich history of mystery and intrigue. Their is a quiet reverence in the small park dedicated to those who lost their lives in the pursuit of witches. It would be wonderful if we could all pause a moment, and learn from the mistakes of our past to prevent them from occurring in the future. I wish that "witch hunts" had gone out with the 17th century.

My soap box is finished. The first picture is of the Salem Witch Museum. They need to enlist the help of Disney to make this a better experience. It is a rather gruesome subject, but the exhibit was made so long ago that the message is lost in the silliness of the presentation. However, I did learn a lot.

This is where I wish I could put my kids on most days!! Especially when they are arguing over a game or who gets the tv remote or who gets to choose the tv show or who gets to sit in the front or who did the dishes last night or who gets the first pancake. You get the picture! (No pun intended!)

This statue was of an important person in Salem. Now if I had kept a journal like a good friend of mine, I would know his name, but alas I have not. I will do some googling to try and find out. Love the parking sign! Nothing like a little 21st century image to add to the picture.

On about an acre of ground in the middle of Salem is a small park dedicated to the vicitims of the witch hunts. Each stone that you see that looks like a bench has a name engraved on it of a person who was hung for witchcraft. Trees abound in the area. Next to this park is one of the oldest graveyards in the nation

One of the Mayflower pilgrims is buried beneath this gravestone.

Sorry for the quality of this picture, but hopefully you can make this a little larger to see who it belongs to. No one famous, but I found it quite fascinating.

May we all be a little kinder in our judgements of others and seek to know them before we judge them.

Beautifully Diverse World Part II

I am still fairly new to this blog thing, and these pictures were supposed to upload as well, but alas it was not to be! However, I am still a little smarter than the program, so here they are.

Grateful for the Beautifully Diverse World!

Although I have only visited a small portion of this vast earth, I am always in awe of the beauty that exists in Mother Nature. What more can be said! I am truly blessed to be able to visit different regions of the United States, and experience a minute portion of the grandeur of the world. From deserts to oceans, the world is truly magnificient.