You learn...

So, when trying to organize my family photos, I came across this saved article. I'm glad I saved it...


"The things you learn in maturity aren't simple things such as acquiring information and skills.
You learn not to engage in self-destructive behavior.
You learn not to burn up energy in anxiety.
You discover how to manage your tensions.
You learn that self-pity and resentment are among the most toxic of drugs.
You find that the world loves talent put pays off on character.
You come to realize that most people are neither for you or against you: they are thinking about themselves.
You learn that no matter how hard you try to please, some people in this world are not going to love you- a lesson that is at first troubling and then really quite relaxing."

(part of a John W. Gardner speech)

A Tie For Father's Day

Marcus was privileged to play in a tournament
in honor of Nathan's father,and
to provide scholarships for H.S. students.

With a little time to practice,
Nathan has this game!

Marcus said Lana had a great golf stance.
Which one?

So, as Marcus said, "It was lots of fun!"

Here's the score card and "tie"

that Lana sent him for Father's day.
Surely, that would never compare to the fun
at Royal Oaks Golf Course!

So, Lana, Nathan, & Zeb...this should be a tradition, right?

Her Daddy & Papa

Just sitting by Papa and reading.
Making sure Papa's place setting is right

Just plain sweet, together!

I see my daddy mowing (15 mo old)

Me and my Daddy!

Great Dad's make great people like...

Morgandy... Sweet, smart, reflective, independent


Alex...passionate, talented, funny, kind!


Lana...crazy fun, adventurous, people lover


Myra...goal setter, serious, determined, fun!


Me...shown the love of our heavenly father,

So thankful to know the greatness of these men,
and see them faithfully love their children.

Nathan & Morgandy

" I'll save you from a Lana attack, Uncle Nathan!"

"It's just goodnight, not goodbye, Uncle Nathan.":(

"You can't catch me, no sir-ree!"

"Uncle Nathan, I didn't know you made
the same funny face."

"I have to help you practice that funny face."

Park Play

Morgandy's been down bigger slides,
but today this just seemed the right size.

Morgandy tells Aunt Lana she has to
ride in the back. Glad Lana's hanging on.

"Aunt Lana, you can't catch me"

"Ready, set, going to go!"

These rubbery tiles are fun to run on,
just glad it was a cool afternoon.

Morgandy loved swinging and looking at the crane.

Saving Lana from the lion.

Preparing Breakfast is fun.

Myra, the Mom!

It has been a blessing, watching Morgandy's incredible parents.
I wish I had been the Mom, that I see Myra being...
I don't think I was a bad Mother...but there are some
"do-overs" that would have been better for all of us.

Myra has established great boundaries
and adjust her expectations within reason.

It's great to see Patrick step up, calmly, and help
keep things on track!

No doubt, Myra was blessed with her Dad's
easy-going calm spirit..that's a good thing!

Myra, you, Lana & Alex have become more than I had prayed for...
giving me assurance of a bigger GOD and that HE definitely
stepped in, just as I ask HIM to.
I am so proud of you...
a mother I wish I had been!

Time flies...

...when we're having fun,
like making a play-doh mustache
...as we enjoy the beach life

... when Nathan does the fish face for Morgandy
and has to tell her good-bye :(

...when Lana is indoor sky-diving with her Dad
...when we enjoy a little putt -putt!
So, I've been anticipating the visits of our girls
families and now they are gone. It was a great time!
Be safe Nathan & Lana and have a great visit in Montana.

The "I mean business" look!

or possibly saying "Cheese!"

More Morgandy

Hanging out at the beach park

Splashing Mama and filling all 3 buckets with sand

Car trip song...If your happy & you know it
clap your shoes!

Fun Times

Having a handful of pennies and two fountains to
throw them in, is a lot of work. One here, one there!

Sharing a snow cone with Daddy and
watching the birds...that's beach fun!

"I need to but the sand back in the waatur!"

Busy Day

After shopping at Ikea, Morgandy had a snack

She loves cinnamon rolls

Aunt Lana convinced her to eat Salad, so
she could have strong muscles!

What a pose...love 'em