Elrey Family Home Base

Pics from Brent's Homecoming

2011-03-10T18:15:00.004-07:00

Check out the "post" before this one to see the video of Brent coming into the baggage area......

Click on Older Posts

Brent's Homecoming!!

2011-03-10T17:51:00.004-07:00

Brents' homecoming was awesome! The most fantastic Patriot Guard was there. As you can see in the video it was an inspiring sight. I wish there had been a band as well. Talk about returning with Honor....thank Heavens he is home! Little Mr. Henry, has Mayberry blue eyes and Kevins' little chicken hair. He's a cutie.

U-Crane!

2010-12-11T02:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know if my folks will get around to blogging about this, but they're headed on an 18-month mission to Ukraine! I used to call it "the Ukraine", and mentally I still do sometimes, but thankfully I catch myself before looking goofy.

But enough about that...Uncle Ralph and Aunt Marti are headed on a medical mission to Kiev after spending some time in Provo. I need to get the details about opening their call and their reactions (they get separate calls...and Autumn told me my mom said she was going to Topeka, Kansas...what a crack up!), so I'll update this when I know more.

Congrats on the call, Mom and Dad! You'll be awesome!

Party Goers

2010-08-23T12:43:00.008-06:00

Thanks to everyone that came to the party and made it all so fun! We missed those that weren't there! Here are the pictures we got in the beginning...sorry if we missed some people!

Isreal

2010-04-27T13:17:00.001-06:00

Ralph, Scott and I are on a ten day trip to the Holy Land. We have been to Tel Aviv,Joppa,Haifa,Caesarea,Mt. Carmel,The Jezreel Vally,Megiddo,Nazareth, The river Jordan, Scott has walked where the Savior has walked and he has gone swimming where the Savior has walked(the sea of Galile). We are in Tiberas and are staying in a hotel on the shores of the sea of Galile. We watched the sunrise this morning over the Golan heights, upon the sea of Galile and felt the spirit of this place. We have such wonderful people on this tour with us and we really feel blessed to be here.

Jeff Update!

2010-04-07T13:05:00.002-06:00

Elder Elrey is doing GREAT! He'll be heading off to Mexico tonight at 8:30. Check out his blog often so you kow what he's up to!

Hey, everyone!

2010-01-23T11:28:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to get on here and let you all know that I will be keeping a blog of Jeff's letters, pictures, etc. from his mission. Click here to go to it. There aren't any post's yet because he hasn't left! Haha But I will be posting every time I get a letter or e-mail from him. If you wanna keep up with it, follow it! I'm excited to do this for him.. Love you guys! :)

Weekend At The Postums

2009-12-13T21:24:00.003-07:00

Cousin party and Matt's graduation! Enjoy!

Heidi and Jake making candy trains. Spiderman Spiderman got spiderman gloves for the white elephant gift! Mama got all us girls matching PJs for Christmas! I thought that was so sweet!

Chow time

Little bit of snuggle time for all of us. Two good guys doin' what they love. Being recognized before receiving his diploma!

Aaron and Matt accepting their Rock Hard Awards for exceptional physical fitness. Premonition?... Everyone likes to try on Daddy's hat. I love this picture. And finally, I looked back sometime during the ceremony to see all these Helena PD guys gathered up to support the new recruits during graduation. I thought that was cool.

Addie's Baptism

2009-11-23T01:19:00.002-07:00

First, congrats to the amazing bikers who toured Tucson this weekend--you guys are SUPER!

We missed you up here in Montana in our 50 mph winds!

We had a beautiful weekend celebrating Addie's 8th birthday and her baptism.Rich, Addie & Jamie
Dad and Daughter
***
It was a special and sacred day shared with so many loved ones. Our hearts are truly full of THANKSGIVING for the restored gospel, for a loving extended family and ward family, and for a beautiful daughter who is always trying to be like Jesus.
We Love You, Addie Rose!
CONGRATULATIONS!

El Tour De Tucson

2009-11-22T21:59:00.003-07:00

I was pretty impressed with this group of bikers Saturday. Ralph, Marti, Dave and Sam rode 36 miles, Steve rode 66 miles, and they were all still able to walk afterward! Would you look at that - they all ended up gold medalists. Way to go, guys!

our trip to Larch Mt.

2009-06-25T17:18:00.006-06:00

The Columbia River from Larch Mt. Us in front of Mt. Hood

T-bone contemplating the rock

Cody scaring us all! He's on the Otherside of the guardrail!!

The gorgeous view of Mt. Adams

Can you see Ty?
One of the cool stumps along the trail.

Yet, another

The clouds and sunset from my bathroom window

Syd, lovin' the smells of the forest

Sydnie, eating an ice cream, we bought one for Cody and he didn't want it, so Syd got her first one.

Codys' road rash, from a bike wreck

The view as we drove up to the look-out

The happy children

We thought we would get one more little bit of sightseeing done before we had to leave this beautiful place. We went to the Larch Mt. look-out, where you can see 5 Mt. peaks and 360. It was beautiful!! It is a nice hike ( with stairs...) to the top. I was totally worn out by the time we got to the top, but it was worth it!!

Slacker

2009-06-21T14:33:00.002-06:00

That would be me. I have found myself caught up in a world in which I can not escape. It isn't a very lovely place and I just keep hoping and believing that I can rise above the monster holding literaly on to my leg.I apologize for not posting the pictures of Alaska and our fun journey from Fairbanks to Vancouver. I have to let you know that it was the best thing I have gotten to do in very long time.Thanks to my sweetie for making this happen. Dad and Mom you guys Rock. You were patient and adventureous. Seeing the whales and the Bears,eagles and carabou was so amazing. Most amazing thing was being with the ones I love and seeing things through their eyes. Skagway :D just fun! Love you all. Happy Father's Day to all you wonderful Fathers out there. Hugs Papa. Know that you are deeply loved. Marti

HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY...

2009-05-10T21:17:00.004-06:00

...to all my fabulous sisters, aunties, cousins,

and especially to my Grandma & Mama!

from jamie's scrapbook, 1973

“Most of you are mothers, and very many of you are grandmothers and even great-grandmothers. You have walked the sometimes painful, sometimes joyous path of parenthood. You have walked hand in hand with God in the great process of bringing children into the world that they might experience this estate along the road of immortality and eternal life. It has not been easy rearing a family. Most of you have had to sacrifice and skimp and labor night and day. As I think of you and your circumstances, I think of the words of Anne Campbell, who wrote as she looked upon her children:

You are the trip I did not take;
You are the pearls I cannot buy;
You are my blue Italian lake;
You are my piece of foreign sky.

(“To My Child,” quoted in Charles L. Wallis, ed., The Treasure Chest [1965], 54)

You [mothers] are the real builders of the nation wherever you live, for you have created homes of strength and peace and security. These become the very sinew of any nation.”

Gordon B. Hinckley

Ensign, Nov 1996

2009-05-09T23:42:00.000-06:00

I hope all the Mom's in this family have the best day ever!!

Happy Mother's Day. Love you.

New Plan...

2009-04-07T17:56:00.004-06:00

I am moving back to Arizona June 16th. I don't know what I'll be doing after that, probably just Pima Community College to get my General studies done. I'm still planning on school in Utah, just not necessarily UVU.. I'm leaning more towards UofU, but it all depends on what I choose to major in. I still love you all bunches and bunches and I can't wait to see you all!

Love Pearl.

Change of Plans

2009-03-24T16:12:00.002-06:00

We have adjusted the plans for little Owen's blessing. We are moving the party to Tucson and we are going to do it at the Dever's home at about 3:00pm. After the blessing there will be some food and good times to be had to celebrate Owen's blessing and Grandpa's birthday. If you need directions or any further information, please give me call. Love Ya

Owen's Blessing

2009-03-10T18:18:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to let everybody know that we are going to bless Owen on the 29th of March in our Sacrament Meeting (1:00pm). We were also thinking we would also have a little birthday party for Grandpa. Please let us know if you would be interested in joining us. Love ya, Sam, Kristen, & little Owen.

2009-02-25T14:51:00.001-07:00

Feb.24

2009-02-25T12:20:00.003-07:00

Ok! Today was the most precious of days for me. I got to fly to Phoenix, cutie pie Lisa picked me up and drove me to Mesa. We met Mom and Dad and Sam and Elaine, Marti and Matt at the temple. Lisa visited for a few minutes and left, then we all went through a session. Waht a beautiful, sweet experience to be with MY family in the temple all together. They are the reason "Families are Forever" means so much to me, other than my sweet Mark, they are my best friends and I love them with all my heart! The next wonderful thing, was I got to see Sam and Kristen and little Seamus. Oh, my goodness, he is an angel baby and it is Dejavu to hold him! They are such a sweet little family. Kristen is such a calm, mellow mama. Sam was just glowing. Good job my little Laytons! I am using Dads computer, I will try to download the pictures I took last night,

Hello!

2009-02-16T10:50:00.002-07:00

Hey all. It's been a really long time since I've posted on here. I just wanted to let you all know how things are going with me! Life here in Mass is still going pretty good. I only have about three and a half months until graduation. I've completely changed my mind on whats going to happen after I graduate. I've decided to go to college and study either Biology or Art and Visual Communications. I applied to Utah Valley University in Orem and I got my acceptance letter on Saturday, the 14th. I'm incredibly excited but really scared at the same time. I'll be going all by myself and thats very frightening for me. I think I'll be okay though. In June I'll be returning to Tucson for two months befor I have to go up to school. I love you all and I love knowing whats going on with you guys!

Love, Pearly!

Draper Temple Tour

2009-02-10T19:35:00.004-07:00

Sunset on the way home

Lauren, Rachel and Adams little girl

Draper Temple

The new temple by Willys, just off Bangerter Hwy

My Addresses

2009-02-08T00:35:00.001-07:00

Email: michaeledrews@gmail.com

Temp Address:
29105 Goldenstar Way
Murrieta, Ca 92563

Phone Number: 832-228-4930

It's Me!!!!

2009-01-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

UPDATE!!

2009-01-24T21:59:00.003-07:00

I am in Riverside California working still for Stone Security! Installing those security systems!! Life is treating me great! My permanent address is still Texas. I am only here until May or Aug I will know closer to May!

Temp Address: 29105 Goldenstar Way Murrieta CA 92563
New Phone number! : 832-228-4930

Love you all!

Happy New Year, Lovies!

2008-12-31T12:03:00.002-07:00

Thanks to all you beloved Elreys/Mayberrys for making our holiday simply joyful! We love you all so much and wish for tons more time together and way fewer miles between...

We stand all amazed at the wonderful people growing from our family tree, and the wonderful parents our sibs and cousins have become.

We wish each of you best blessings in 2009!

Love, The Melins

The reason for the season...
Robby, James, Ryrley, Addie, Ben, and Heidi

Ben, Morgan, Travis, Penelope, Addie, Ryley, Livi, James, and Heidi

What a bunch of cuties!

Merry Christmas, Papa Bill!

Merry Christmas, Nana Lyn!

Merry Christmas from Granpa Bill

2008-12-25T16:55:00.001-07:00

Uncle Sam and Gram in uncle Sams office. Merry Christmas 2008

Montana Surprise Visit

2008-12-21T15:49:00.005-07:00

Hello everyone

Here is the ultimate surprise entry. Thanks

2008-12-21T11:05:00.001-07:00

Hey my dear family when you get the chance please read my latest entry entitled The Gift of Family! Love you all!

My sister Alysha and me

2008-12-17T23:01:00.001-07:00

Feliz Navidad!

2008-12-10T10:34:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas from the Melin Kids!

Only NINE DAYS til we're back in God's Country to celebrate Christmas with our Elrey peeps! YAY! Can't wait to see all of you down in Scary-Vista...

Happy Third Birthday to Ben Petersen!

2008-11-17T10:12:00.002-07:00

YAY, BEN!

PLEASE CHECK OUT MY BLOG

2008-11-10T17:50:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone I finally updated my blog please check it out!!
Love michael

ADDRESS UPDATES!!!!

2008-11-10T17:44:00.002-07:00

Amy Drews
1475 oakdale ave apt 16
El Cajon, Ca 92021

Michael Drews
12311 Split Rail Ln
Houston TX 77071
801-735-2124

Update...

2008-11-09T13:35:00.002-07:00

Hey everyone! I've been in Mass for two and a half months!! Time is flying by, and i love every minute. School has been good so far.. I am doing Home Study Seminary and its coming along great. It's very different from my released-time that i had at home, but i think its more beneficial, because I have to be proactive about it and take time out of my day to get it done. I love living with Amy and Aaron. It's really fun. Gabe is the cutest little busy body i have ever seen. He's so smart, it's amazing. I miss my family, but I'll be home for Christmas! Sadly, I'm going to miss Christmas eve at the Mayberry's though. I just wanted to let everyone know how things are going. I lvoe you all and i hope i get to see you all soon!! Love, Pearly.

The latest news

2008-10-30T15:32:00.004-06:00

At the Grotto

This is how it looks around here

This the trees on SE Edmunds and 39th st Abby's last game

Picking up Cody

Hi everyone, I thought I would give you an update, those of you that I don't talk to on a regular basis.......just want you all to know that I love you beyond measure and I am eternally grateful for you. I have a PET-scan scheduled on Nov. 6th, I see Dr. Simon on the 14th, then if things are still clear I will have my port taken out. I am still tired from radiation, but it's over and I will be ok. I am finally growing some hair! Life is good!

Mark is finally finished with SLave-A-Lot.....we are looking for a job in this area, we love it here. He has talked to a few places and sent a few resumes in. I know that the right job will come along. I know that the Lord is watching out for us, all we have to do is keep the commandments.

Hello everyone, I want let everyone know that I appreciate all of your prayers, support and love. It is a blessing that Lyndi is ok and doing well. I will be turning in my car and stuff Friday, it will be over. My dad coined the new name for SAL when he was out here that Lyndi mentioned above. My friend at the office in St. Louis thought it was pretty funny and replied " the word is out". It feels pretty strange looking for a job, this will be the third time I have actually searched for a job. Cody just got home from his first day at school and seemed pretty excited, not. He said he made some friends today, mostly the other gender. He has a little homework and starts his on-line class tomorrow. Mark

Dear Familia...

2008-10-29T16:35:00.002-06:00

You simply MUST read THIS and let Meeky know how much we love him!

Happy Birthday to Willy, Meeky, and Michael this week... (and Jill last Saturday). Having this many cool peeps born in one week makes you think there might be something to astrology, no? Heh, heh....

Love, Jamie

Hola Elrey Clan

2008-10-21T10:31:00.002-06:00

It's been forever since we said howdy on the family site, so here are a couple of recent pix for y'all... Here's Addie, Heidi, and James on 10/2 with some of the treats we brought from Europe. The girls are wearing liebekuken (?) cookies from Octoberfest; Addie has a castle pendant; Heidi & James have Bavaria Tshirts, and Bub has a British taxi, Cooper Mini, and Bus...fun!
Here we are on London Bridge on the last day of our trip (9/30)...

"Look, kids--Big Ben, Parliament!"
This is a little church in Wurzburg, Germany, where Richard was born. It is a depiction of the Annunciation that really cracked us up. If you look closely (click to enlarge), God teh Father is sending a tiny baby Jesus into Mary's EAR. Hm...I bet you always wondered how the immaculate conception happened, and now you know!

***

Happy Fall, Y'all! We are all well and enjoying our favorite season in Livingston. It's so beautiful and we'd like to remind all of you that you are welcome to visit ANYTIME!

Love, The Melins in Montana

Mexico

2008-10-06T22:32:00.007-06:00

Here we are in Mexico enjoying perfect everything. We are on the balcony looking at the moon's reflection on Cholla Bay. The breeze is pleasent and we are enjoying great conversation with Brent,Maren,Ralph and I.The babies are sleeping and we are ready to turn our selves. We had lunch at Flavio's in Rocky Point and the little girls had so much fun dancing to the music. Fun! Love You So Much. Marti

How have the Allreds been?

2008-08-29T22:45:00.005-06:00

Well let me tell you....

Morgan just celebrated her 2nd birthday yesterday. She's so much fun and very persistant. She's a big fan of movies, milk, and her baby brother Travis. She talks very well and learns loads of things every day.

This is the best I could do with keeping her still for a picture.

Travis is 7 months old, can sit, and got his 1st tooth on Tuesday. He smiles all the time, even when he's not feeling well. He's such a joy to have in our home.

Matthew is teaching at the high school. this is his 1st year. I am mom, and work once a week or so as a nurse at the hospital here. I'd write more, but one of my babies is crying. We love all of you! love, Maren

Movin' on up... To Massachusetts!

2008-08-21T12:44:00.003-06:00

This week has been totally insane.

I'm flying to Massachusetts to live with Aaron and Amy next Wednesday morning at 7:00. I am really, really, really excited for this awesome opportunity. It's really spur of the moment, I only heard about the decision I had to make Monday. I made up my mind by Tuesday night and we got my tickets Wednesday.

I'm starting my new Senior year on September 2nd.

I love you guys! Hopefully I'll be home for Christmas... but who knows?

Love,
Pearl!

Allred Cuties

2008-08-07T08:51:00.002-06:00

Hey, Maren--I have these photos on my computer from your email, so I posted them for the fam. Hope that's okay :) Love, Cousin Maj OOPS! Morgan holding Travis back in the spring
The Allred Family--Morgan, Matt, Travis and Maren

In the Wee Hours of the Morning...

2008-08-06T02:15:00.002-06:00

Here I am at 0115 awake and awaiting the passing of time. I'm at work here in the Willcox Hospital. We've got 7 patients (4 of which are basically nursing home patients). So it's been about a year since I've made a post, which is why I would be a very bad candidate for my own blog, if that makes sense.
In January we moved to Willcox, and had our baby Travis 2 weeks later. At home. The same midwife as the one Lacy used. :). I started working basically one night a week at the end of April. Matthew officially has started his new career as a High School and Middle School teacher. He will be teaching Personal Finance for Seniors, and Career Exploration for 8th graders (he got his Bachelors degree in Accounting). He also is an assistant coach for the football team, so we will be seeing quite a bit less of him from now through October. Go Cowboys!
Morgan will be 2 in a couple weeks. She is quite the jabber, and is getting pretty good at throwing fits and she just adores Travis. She gets pretty excited when he wakes up from his naps, "Travis Awaken!?"
Travis is 6 months old, a little bit underweight right now, but is just the smilin'est kid I've ever seen. He is super ticklish and loves to put his feet in his mouth. We're working on getting him to sit by himself.
We are one happy family. Sorry no pictures. Like I said, I'm at work. Maybe I'll get to that some time soon. :) Love ya'll.
Maren

At Mom's!

2008-07-18T20:13:00.002-06:00

After hours and hours of driving all night with bloodshot eyes, sleeping babies and teenagers, and a talkative husband all hopped up on Monsters, we made it to Mom's! yay! The funny thing is that, although we've never been to her house, it always feels like coming home where ever she is. It was just what we all needed to hug her and cuddle on her bed for a while when she got home from her Chemo treatment.

She's doing well. She only had half a treatment today cause her white blood cell count was low. She gets another dose of the good stuff on friday. She's sleeping right now and we all just finished dinner and are waiting for Mark to get home. They boys cleaned out their car and ours and Kristen and I snugged down for some movie time and kid play time after dinner. Tomorrow the boys go golfing and Kristen and I have plans to go visit her sister and go to this indoor pool in Portland. I think they'll enjoy it and mom will enjoy a more quiet house for a few hours, as much as she loves having us close by. :)

All in all we are very glad to be here. We've been looking forward to this trip for a while. It's good to see Sam and Kristen and be with Mom and Mark. Should be lots of fun and entertainment and we are already loving it!

Cousin Party

2008-07-18T19:27:00.003-06:00

Over the weeken the Melin family and Cody and Tyler came to visit! We had a great time with the usual good food and good company just hangn out. For the first time this summer we got to entertain company on our new backyard! wooo hooo! The kids had a nice time out there. The boys got into some arm wrestling and horsen around which is tradition. It was just so nice to all be together and enjoy each other's company.

It's been a little too long!

2008-07-13T02:27:00.006-06:00

Hey everyone! I know it's been a REALLY long time since I've posted any kind of update.. So here it goes!

~I'm getting ready to go into my SENIOR year of High school! I'm so excited!
~After I graduate I think I might go to Eastern Arizona for a while to get my prerequisites for veterinary school. I'm also considering Massage/Physical Therapy school but I'm kind of iffy on that..
~Tonight i started a ballroom dancing class thats just for fun a couple of Saturdays a month and it is REALLY fun. We learned the fox trot and I had a blast!
~I'm saving my money so i can get my Nikon D40 in November! I am going to start doing photography as a hobby, I've been interested for a couple of years and am FINALLY going to get my dream camera!!! It is really exciting!!
~I started m,y own little Blog, click here to go to it.
I'm going to start updating that every week or so.

Thats pretty much it for right now.. I love you all and hope to hear from you soon!

~Pearly

On my way to work!

2008-07-05T21:35:00.000-06:00

Michael and Amy's living update

2008-07-05T21:29:00.002-06:00

Amy Drews:801-735-9831
2285 S 1700 E
Salt Lake City UT 84106
amy.drews@yahoo.com

Michael Drews: 801-735-2124
1401 Merrill Creek Pkwy # 10038
Everett Wa 98203
michaeledrews@juno.com

2008-07-05T10:22:00.002-06:00

Dear Michael and Amy,

Please post your addresses and phone numbers (or email them to us) so we can contact you. No one knows where either of you are living or for how long, so it's hard when we have birthday cards and stuff to send and no address to send them to. I haven't heard from Amy in almost a year and I miss her, too. But I haven't moved for three years and I've had the same phone number for six years, so ...well, you get what I am saying: you have to tell people where you are and what you are doing in order for them to be able to contact you.

We love and miss you both! So glad you are having a fun summer!

love, Jamie & Rich

MY FAMILY

2008-07-04T18:27:00.004-06:00

My sisters Amy & Alena then me

My niece Alexis and me

My Nephew Avery

My Beautiful Sisters Alena and Amy

Nana Lyndi Update

2008-06-04T07:25:00.003-06:00

I (Jamie) am off to Vancouver to be with Mama Lyndi for her first chemo. Here is the info from my blog:

***

So Mama's oncologist got her treatment shedule lined out today and let her know that her cancer is "only" stage one--totally beatable! So she'll have six rounds of chemo (every 21 days) followed by four radiation treatments.

Here's the chemo schedule:
6/6, 6/27, 7/18/, 8/8, 8/29, and 9/19.

I'll be with her for her first round, Lisa and the Grandparents will be with her for the second, Sam, Kristen will take care of her 7/18, and August and Septmber are still open--Marti, are you still going the end of August? I can probably take August 8th if Matty Post can't do it. And Marti, do you want to come back on September 19th and celebrate our birthday with Abby and take care of Mom? We can celebrate it being her last round of chemo, too! Come on, it'll be fun! ;)

update: Michael is close by and can help mom, too, so maybe you can plan on August 8th, Mike.

Also, Jill and Sara will be with mom next week.

I also plan on bringing Abby and Marshall home with me on 6/18, so if anyone wants to plan some time or activities with them, let me know (Matt? Laura? Jill?).

Jill is taking Marshall to Utah after we swap Cody and Tyler in Idaho on June 20-something.

"Activate Operation MamaCare!"

HEY I AM BACK

2008-05-19T17:57:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone I have been crazy busy with everything. Please give me another chance I will do better. Check out my Blog! Love you all and wish nothing but the best for you guys!

Nana Lyndi's Diagnosis

2008-05-16T20:26:00.003-06:00

"LARGE B-CELL LYMPHOMA":

INTRODUCTION — Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a fast-growing, aggressive form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), a cancer of the body's lymphatic system. The lymphatic system includes the tissues and organs (including the bone marrow, spleen, thymus and lymph nodes) that produce and store cells that fight infection. Although there are more than 20 types of NHL, DLBCL is the most common type, making up about 30 percent of all lymphomas [1] . In the United States, DLBCL affects about 5 people out of 100,000 each year [2] .
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma can be fatal if left untreated, but with timely and appropriate treatment, up to half of all patients are curable. The following discussion will review the risk factors, classification, clinical symptoms, and prognosis of this type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
RISK FACTORS — Age, gender, and race/ethnicity affect a person's likelihood of developing diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Although DLBCL has been found in people of all age groups, it is found most commonly in people who are middle-aged or elderly. The average age at the time of diagnosis is 64 years. Men are slightly more likely to develop DLBCL than women. People who are white are more likely to develop this type of lymphoma than people of African or Asian race/ethnicity.
CLASSIFICATION — Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is a cancer of B lymphocytes. The lymph organs include the bone marrow, thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes. These help to fight infection throughout the body. The organs of the lymphatic systems are connected by a network of lymphatic and blood vessels, through which lymphatic fluid flows. Lymphatic fluid contains white blood cells called lymphocytes (show figure 1).
There are two primary types of lymphocytes: B-cells and T-cells. Almost all lymphocytes begin growing in the bone marrow or lymph nodes. T-cells leave the bone marrow before they are completely matured, and finish maturing in the thymus gland. However, B-cells continue to develop and mature in the bone marrow and lymph nodes.
In DLBCL, the abnormal B-cell lymphocytes are larger than normal. The presence of these large cells characterizes DLBCL; typically, the large cells present in DLBCL have nuclei at least twice the size of small lymphocytes. Researchers have identified several variants of DLBCL, including a centroblastic variant, immunoblastic variant, anaplastic variant, T-cell histiocyte rich large B-cell lymphoma, and T-cell infiltration. It is not clear whether understanding the differences between these variants can improve patients' symptoms or overall prognosis.
Genetic events and chromosomal abnormalities are suspected to be related to the development of DLBCL. In 30 percent of cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, an abnormal transfer (translocation) of part of a chromosome occurs (the t(3;14) gene translocation). This translocation causes a rearrangement in a gene called BCL-6. As a result, the abnormal gene signals the body to produce a protein that alters the growth and development of these cells [3] .
PRIMARY MEDIASTINAL LARGE B-CELL LYMPHOMA — Patients with this subtype of DLBCL have tumors within the chest cavity that usually involve the thymus, the gland of the immune system that is located in the front upper middle of the chest and extends from the base of the throat to the front of the heart.
Primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma comprises 7 percent of all diffuse large B-cell lymphomas and accounts for 2.4 percent of all non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Women are slightly more likely to develop this disorder, and the median age of diagnosis occurs in the fourth decade of life.
People who have this form of DLBCL usually present to their physicians with a malignant tumor in the chest cavity that causes difficulty breathing and a condition known as superior vena cava syndrome. If this subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma recurs, it can cause problems with other organs, including the liver, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, ovaries, and central nervous system.
This type of tumor is aggressive, but it is treatable with programs that combine chemotherapy and radiation.
SYMPTOMS — The first noticeable symptom that patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma experience is a quickly growing mass, which may be found either in the neck, groin, or abdomen.
In about one in five patients, tumors caused by DLBCL are confined to one part of the body. However, in about 40 percent of people diagnosed with this type of NHL, the cancer spreads from the lymph system into adjacent organs, a condition known as extranodal infiltration. In some patients, DLBCL spreads to the bone marrow.
DIAGNOSIS — Physicians confirm a diagnosis of DLBCL by removing an enlarged lymph node or a portion of an involved organ in a procedure known as a biopsy. This procedure may be performed under a local anesthetic if the involved tissue is relatively close to the surface. In other cases, a sample of tissue must be obtained under a general anesthetic. The cells from the removed tissue are then examined in detail, using a number of different techniques to determine the nature of the abnormal cell.
Physicians also order blood tests, x-rays, imaging scans, and bone marrow samples to obtain more information about the type of lymphoma and the extent to which it has spread in the body, a process termed "staging" (show table 1). The results of these tests will help physicians decide on the most effective course of treatment. As an example of the importance of staging, treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is generally more likely to provide a cure when the lymphoma is localized than when it has spread to other parts of the body.
Gene studies, such as the use of gene expression profiling, may allow clinicians to determine which patients have a reduced chance of remission after standard treatments and could suggest which patients would be candidates for more aggressive treatment [4] . These studies are investigational and are not yet part of standard practice.
TREATMENT — The standard of treatment of DLBCL is combination chemotherapy, occasionally with the addition of radiation to areas of large, bulky disease. The most common chemotherapeutic program for patients with advanced disease consists of 5 medicines (called CHOP-rituximab or CHOP-R) given every three weeks for 6 to 8 cycles. Patients with only localized disease may be treated with fewer cycles of chemotherapy in combination with radiation therapy to the involved area.
PROGNOSIS — The five-year survival rate of patients with DLBCL is between 26 and 73 percent, meaning that between one quarter and three quarters of patients with DLBCL will be disease-free for five years after diagnosis. Relapses tend to occur within the first two to three years after the diagnosis of DLBCL; the disease rarely recurs if the patient has been disease-free for four or more years.

The Test

2008-05-15T23:35:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share something that is dear to my heart and one of my greatest comforters, music.
I have no idea how to get a song to play on this post, but I am going to post the words.

Tell me friend, why are you blind?
Why doesn't He who worked the miracles
send light into your eyes?
Tell me friend, if you understand, why doesn't He with power to raise the dead
just make you whole again?
It would be so easy for Him.
I watch you and in sorrow question why
Then you, my friend in perfect faith reply;

Didn't He say He sent us to be tested?
Didn't He say the way would not be sure?
But didn't He say we could live with Him forevermore, well and whole
If we but patiently endure
After the trial we will be blessed,
but this life is the test.

Tell me friend, I see your pain.
why, when you pray in faith for healing
Does the crippling thorn remain?
Help me see, If you understand,
why doesn't He who healed the lame man
Come with healing in His wings
It would be so easy for Him.
I watch you and in sorrow question why
then you, my friend, in perfect faith reply;

Didn't He say He sent us to be tested?
Didn't He say the way would not be sure?
But didn't He say we could live with Him forevermore, well and whole
If we but patiently endure?

Tell me Love, why must you die?
Why must your loved ones stand with empty arms
and ask the question "why"?
Help me know, so I can go on
How, when your love and faith sustained me,
Can the precious gift be gone?
From the depths of sorrow I cry,
Though pains of grief within my soul arise
The whisperings of the spirit still my cries:
Didn't He say He sent us to be tested?
Didn't He say the way would not be sure?
But didn't he say we could live with H im forevermore,
well and whole, if we but patiently endure?
After the trial we will be blessed,
but this life is the test.

JKPERRY

I love pretty much all of her songs, this one and "How Great Shall Be Your Joy" and "Testimony" are my favorites . They are from "The Light Within" book. I hope the words will bring someone else comfort. Love ya'll

Nana Lyndi Update

2008-05-06T16:29:00.002-06:00

My blog and mom's have updates on her condition. Her surgery is Friday and they are pretty certain she has Lymphoma. Continued prayers and support...:(

Fast Sunday...

2008-05-03T15:34:00.002-06:00

Aunt Lyndi/ Nana/ Mama has lumps in her lymph nodes which will be biopsied on Tuedsay morning at 9am. Please include her in your fast Sunday prayers, and also pray that her family will be comforted...a few of us are having a tough time! She is keeping us updated at her blog, so look there if there's no info here next Wednesday or Thursday. THANKS!

Elrey Boys

2008-04-27T16:33:00.003-06:00

Sam got to join up with Grandpa, Uncle Matt, Uncle Sam and Cousin Bill for priesthood session. They all looked so cute I just had to take this picture!

Visit to Logan

2008-04-21T18:46:00.002-06:00

The Logan Tabernacle Grandma Jaynes' marker
Logan Temple

The soda fountain in the Bluebird

Just wanted to share the pics we took in Logan. I really wanted to stop by the cemetery and see Grandma Jayne, it has been a long time since I was there.
We also stopped at the Bluebird Cafe and had lunch before we hit the road again. Conference was wonderful and seeing all of our Utards was great. We had a super trip and we are happy we did it!

Tender Mercies

2008-04-01T11:32:00.002-06:00

Tender Mercies

We have experienced the tender mercies of our Heavenly Father these last two weeks. Spring break took Scott, Steven, Ralph and I to Calif. We went through PHX. to purchase mission clothing and things. WE drove to Six Flags Magic Mt. and spent 11 hours with roller coasters galore. So fun. Scott and Steve were running until the very last minute. WE then drove to LA and spent the night near UCLA. In the morning the boys went and ran on UCLA's track and Ralph and Scott did Stadium steps. Scott, Ralph and I did sealings in the LA Temple. It was so sweet. Ralph and I were sealed there 33 going on 34 years this DEC. Our sealer was a decendant of Philemon Merrill who settled St. David, Az. Scott was able to be husband and son in these sacred ordinences.
Back to Tempe/Mesa to pick up Scotts suits and attend the Mesa Temple's Easter pagent. Scott was able to see his Coach, David Barney and family, Eric Heryson, Jermey, Matt, and Emily from his Cross Country team at Paridise Valley Community College. Sam and Kristen found us too. It was beautiful and it really helped bring the true spirit of the Easter season.
Home to SV. We had two new water heaters put in on Friday. All our kids started arriving Friday night. Brent suprised us by showing up Sat. evening. We were looking forward to seeing him in Utah when we took Scott to the MTC. Scott ,Abenadi Flores and Clarissa King spoke in Church Easter Sunday. Scott used the missionarty skills as he challenged us to serve others and then commited us to do something. Scott was set apart as a missionary by Pres. Kevin Goates. He is our former Bishop and is our neighbor. He invited Grandpa Bill Elrey and Ralph to stand in the circle. It was very tender as we had all our children together and Scotts' friend, Clayton Griggs and our Abenadi with us. Ralph's brother Young and his wife Susan were there also GramaLyn too.
We left for Provo, Utah Mondaymorning. WE did stop at the dam and throw an orange around. It was so different than when we took Kevin up. It was just Ralph and I and Scott. So we laughed at our attempt to follow tradition and play pickle. We got into Provo around 10:30 pm. We stayed at the Hampton Inn @I 15 and University Park Way. Tuesday we got up and went to SLC. We attended Temple session ther and enjoyed that beautiful Temple. WE were able to go to the roof of the Confrence Center and learn about the incredable engineering that took place in building that building. We met up with Brent, Dave, Steve, Lacy and Sweet Pea back in Provo and went to Cafe Rio for dinner. To target for last minute items and back to the Hotel to Sleep. (of which there was very little)

Wed. Morning we arose early and got things ready. Brent came over early and helped Scott
repack his bags. It was really tender to watch Brent, Dave and Steve just hover around Scott and make sure he had every thing. Very sweet. THE BRICK OVEN . What can I say. I love this place. Great memories of our last meal with our missionaries. WE had fun! Then off to the MTC and that wonderful experince of being hit by a tidal wave of the spirit. Amazing. Scott never looked back. He hugged us and kissed us goodbye and that was that.
We have received his first letter written on the 27th the day after we dropped him off. He is well and is the Senior companion and is happy. Thats all he said and we are happy to know that. Thanks for letting me ramble about this great experience in our lives. I love you and I hope that you can feel the love I have for you as my family.

WE must be the happiest people on earth! WE have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I am overwhelmed at the tremendous blessings that our Heavenly Father has given us to enable us to return to Him. Embrace the gospel and let it enrich your lives. I stand all amazed!!!! Love You so Much !!!!

The Trunk of Our Tree

2008-03-29T19:35:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday, Grandpa Bill!

It has been a busy day full of service and chores and family fun, and now I am working at the hotel, hoping you've had a wonderful day. Even though we didn't get to call you today, I hope you know we were busy doing things you could be proud of.

On my way to work I was listening to the radio (Saturday is my favorite day on NPR: Car Talk, Wait-Wait-Don't-Tell-Me, This American Life, Midnight Special, Prairie Home Companion, All Things Considered Weekend Edition, and The Thistle & Shamrock). I heard the most beautiful song on the "Family Folk" edition of Midnight Special. It brought tears to my eyes and I looked it up when I got here. Even though it's about expecting a baby, it reminded me of my whole family tree, all of us branches and sprouts, and you, the trunk...and all the things we've handed down.

***

The Things We've Handed Down

by Marc Cohn (performed by John Gorka)

Don't know much about you

Don't know who you are

We've been doing fine without you

But, we could only go so far

Don't know why you chose us

Were you watching from above

Is there someone there that knows us

Said we'd give you all our love?

Will you laugh just like your mother

Will you sigh like your old man

Will some things skip a generation

Like I've heard they often can

Are you a poet or a dancer

A devil or a clown

Or a strange new combination of

The things we've handed down

I wonder who you'll look like

Will your hair fall down and curl

Will you be a mama's boy

Or daddy's little girl

Will you be a sad reminder

Of what's been lost along the way

Maybe you can help me find her

In the things you do and say

And these things that we have given you

They are not so easily found

But you can thank us later

For the things we've handed down

You may not always be so grateful

For the way that you were made

Some feature of your father's

That you'd gladly sell or trade

And one day you may look at us

And say that you were cursed

But over time that line has been

Extremely well rehearsed

By our fathers, and their fathers

In some old and distant town

From places no one here remembers

Come the things we've handed down.

***

Thank you for all the good things you have handed down to me and now my children. We feel so blessed and we're all so glad you were born!

Love, The Melins

Heidi's face in this picture just kills me everytime I look at it...that's how I feel everytime I hug my Papa!

I am so happy that my kids will always remember picking oranges with Papa Bill!

For months we waited for James to smile again the way he smiled for Great Grandpa and Grandma when he was only a month old. Grandpa was always the Baby Whisperer!

adios, scott!

2008-03-27T21:32:00.005-06:00

Just like at Prom, except instead of a pink carnation, Marti got to pin on a missionary name tag!

Elder Scott Mayberry, just before going through the portal...see Brent's blog for the mailing address.

"This is the last time you'll eat delicious pizza for two years!" Oh, wait. He's going to Jersey! Come on, we're all jealous of the pizza that awaits Scott there!

Best of luck, BIL!

What's that you say?

2008-03-18T16:08:00.003-06:00

Dad has a bright idea! teehee!

Things have detiorated here....we're so bored we've taken to using the ear candles to entertain ourselves! Seriously, we went out to breakfast after the kids went to school, and then went to Mike's Drugs and bought ear candles. Mom and Dad have never used them before....it was fun to see their reaction to the goo that came out of their (previously believed to be clean) ears. They are anxious to get home to the warm dry desert......They have had enough of the cold and rain......I will miss them terribly, we have had a wonderful time together.

The best day ever!

2008-03-06T22:21:00.006-07:00

The Lewis and Clark valley from the cemetery
Gramp and Abby and that beautiful old tree
The falls on the Youngs River
The Pier at Astoria

This Carl Fredricks marker
These are children, one only lived one day and the other was 14

Gramp and Marshall playing "One eyed Willy"
Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock and the little geeks
The beach at Seaside

Today we went to Cannon Beach, Seaside and Astoria. We founf the Lewis and Clark Cemetery and some of the Harders. We found the Falls on Youngs River, and the Lewis and Clark Valley where the Harder farm was, we have to go back to find the farm, but we know the general area. It was just such a rush to find them! Dad was excited too. Here are pics from today.

Genealogy

2008-03-05T00:40:00.002-07:00

Hey, my beautiful family! I've set up a family tree for us at Geni.com. I'd love for you to join me there and help the tree grow. You can post pictures, add ancestors to the tree, keep one another informed about what's going on...in short, all kinds of good stuff is there.

If you want an invite, send me an email: brentito at gmail dawt kom.

Trip to Vancouver

2008-03-04T16:52:00.004-07:00

Yea! Hot chocolate, we were cold! It was in the 40's and rainy........not good for desert folk!

In the mosilium at Charles and Lou Elreys' vault. Mary and Jesus at The Meditation Chapel in the Grotto
In the Grotto, outside the Meditation Chapel
At Vista House lookout, in the Gorge. Mom didn't want to get out of the car.
La Tourelle Falls in the Gorge

Helloooooooooooooo to everyone. Mom and Dad are here in Vancouver. We have been out scouting around. We went to the cemetery today, also the Grotto and the Falls. That stuff is all close and we could get back home before the kids got out of school. When we go to Astoria we'll have to take them with. So here some pics of today.

Happy Valenhearts Day!!!

2008-02-14T13:40:00.001-07:00

To my dear family, Happy valentines day! You are all such wonderful people and I am lucky to get to know you and love you! Have the best day with your loved ones, Tell 'em you love 'em! I LOVE YOU! YOU'RE THE BEST!

more Temple pics

2008-02-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

We found this headstone in the old county cemetery, it says Larkin on it.

The temple grounds.

Our Day off

2008-02-11T10:12:00.000-07:00

You can see Moroni through the glass roof of the atrium

This atrium is inside on the ground floor, by the recommend desk, and by the waiting room and the lobby. It is a perfect place for pictures.

Today we did no sleuthing, we did service. While looking for our deceased relatives is a good thing, doing their temple work for them is even better. So we went to the temple with Pam Rigby, from my ward and took 2 of her family names through for her. The Portland temple is beautiful and the same floor plan as San Diego.

Watch and Discuss

2008-02-08T12:22:00.001-07:00

So my friend here in my ward sent me this you tube link today and asked if I had seen it. I watched it--I hadn't seen it before, but I have heard the theories in part from Uncle Sam and Tom Hapgood (who used to keep a blog tracking the use f RFID technology--freaky stuff). What do all y'all think? Uncle Sam, I don't have your current email address, or I would have asked you about it directly. It's from a movie--has anyone seen it?

None of this conspiracy surprises me, but makes me more thankful each day for a prophet, who will always warn and forewarn us of anything that encroaches on our agency or on Heavenly Father's plan, if only we pay attention (get out of debt and emergency preparedness and feed your spirit). More and more I feel the desire to follow, to listen and have the faith to do the things that will keep us safe. Like President Kimball said, "in this there is safety and peace."

Olympia and Renton

2008-02-07T20:54:00.000-07:00

Abby being cool
Water, water, everywhere!!
Our chaperones for the day
Marti and a big driftwood
Tolme State Park, with a beach

This is by the capitol in Olympia, it is taken from Descheutes Rd.
Jimi Hendrix memorial in Greenwood Cemetery

This is the house that Roy and Peggy lived in at some point. 13301 Fairwood St. Renton, Wa.
This is a mossy and ferny tree

This is the capitol building in Olympia, very pretty!
This is honoring the men in the service, with a guardian angel
Peg didn;t die until 2000, but the date isn't on the marker yet.
This is the monument in the center of where they are buried, Holly Garden.
Guess who else is there?....Jimi Hendrix!

Here is the report of the 5th day. We drove to Renton and found Roy and Peg, they are together in Greenwood Cemetery in Renton. We found one house that we had an address for. So here are the pics........We also went to an address in Kent, possibly Susan Elreys' place. We called a number for Robert and were told to call tomorrow for him. So we will. :)

report of the 3rd day

2008-02-05T18:12:00.000-07:00

This is the view up the street, 37th ave.

The houses in this neighborhood are really cute, very well cared for .

We went to the records office and they don't have records for us to search....but we found Uncle Charles' house. We weren't dyslexic, there was a mis print in the obit, but we read the other paper and found the address typed right it is really 3103 NE 37th Ave. so there ya go.

Ships

2008-02-04T21:06:00.000-07:00

You know that bridge to nowhere? We almost drove across it.

Some of the ships we saw in the river, harbor, marina, whatever it is......

2008-02-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

Lewis and Clark on a bus.

This is the First Presbyterian church in Astoria
I thought this window in the church was pretty. This is Fort Astoria

This is the door to the city hall where you pay your water bill and parking tickets, no we didn't get one.

Marti and Lyndi reporting

2008-02-04T17:48:00.000-07:00

We are reporting our trip to Astoria. A very cute little town. The library and the historical society were closed today, however we did find out that the records are in Portland :) I can't get the pictures to go up....I'll try again later, blogspot is being retarded.

Sleuthing with Lyndi and Marti

2008-02-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

This is the house at 905 NE 78th Ave. in Portland

This is through the door, that was locked, because we were too late to get in.....

We found Great Grandpa Charles and Grandma Mary Elreys' house in Portland, we found Charles and Louella in the same cemetary, except they are in a crypt in the back. We looked for their house, and found the street, but the number didn't exist, so there is something not right in the information. We are having the best time ever!!!

Recent doings of Bill and Lynn

2008-02-02T13:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Maren's babyshower and a couple of shots of Uncle Sam without the mustache.

It's Me Michael from the Dead!

2008-01-27T21:56:00.000-07:00

Hey just wanted to say to make sure you click on older posts as well on my blog because there is more that i posted that didn't show. Thanks!

Maren And Matthew's baby boy

2008-01-27T21:25:00.002-07:00

Ok high fives to Maren for delivering her son at home on her bed. My little pioneer daughter. The midwife was there 20 minutes before Travis M Allred made his grand entrence to the world. He is beautiful. Maren looked super for having a baby 12 hours earlier. Matt was just grinning. Tired but happy. All is well! Here are the stats: Travis m Allred, 11:25pm.
Jan.25,2008. 6lbs. 14oz 52cm . Willcox,Az. WE are so thankful all went well and that we have a new grandson .

My heart is heavy tonight...

2008-01-27T21:25:00.001-07:00

at the passing of Gordon B. Hinckley, but it was time. If you haven't read his biography, I strongly encourage you to do so. The man is the epitome of a latter-day prophet, and I love him. I will remember him. He, and I can say this without any reservation whatsoever, is one of the greatest men I have ever known.

News at KSL.

News at Deseret News.

Hello!!!!

2008-01-26T21:56:00.001-07:00

Okay I did it i updated! Please leave comments and i will keep updating!

My Birthday Boys

2008-01-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Here it is 10:30p.m. on the 25th Kevin's 30th birthday. And in a few hours it will be Scott's 20th. How time has flown. These two are twins born 10 years and a day apart. It is really wonderful to see how they have matured and become strong, faithful men. I love you both more than I have words to express the feelings of my heart. Happy Birthday my sons. It has been GRAND! love mom

Happiest Birthday...

2008-01-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

...Grandma Lyn!!! We hope you had a wonderful day! We're all so glad you were born!

Clean-up

2008-01-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

Going home from Portland, I took a turn, looking for a way to get closer to the river, so I could take somemore pics, and I found this little swamp/pond area with these 3 geese and a whole bunch of mallards and mud hens and some muskrat looking things. Also evidence of the beavers.

Can you see the rainbow? I was on the bridge, driving home from the cemetary, and got this shot out the passenger side window(I know, I don't win the safe driver award today:)

This how the sky looked in Portland, after the tornado in Vancouver. It was really pretty and "partly sunny":)

These are the flowers I got. I wish there was a holder or vase, it would look better.

This the after the scrub.

This the before, all green and fuzzy.

I went back to the cemetary today, and scrubbed off the head stone and pulled the little sprigs of grass that were starting to poke through the cracks. I took some flowers too. There isn't a vase or holder on the headstone, so I just sat them in front of it. It looks better. I hope they know we love them!

Hey, we had a tornado today, about 8 miles away in Hazel Dell, Marks store was in the path. Lots of hail and roof and tree damage...........it is so weird, it didn't even rain here. (I thought we got away from that....yesterday there was an earthquake in the ocean 250 miles from Eugene. Now I know why there is a Tsunami evac sign at Cannon Beach......sheesh!

A visit with The Elreys

2008-01-09T12:01:00.000-07:00

This is on the way out. The trees have some sort of red berries on them, I think it is so pretty the way they are trimmed.
Front gate

I tried to get some of the fur off the head stone, so we could read it better

Marti, you were right the faucet is yellow.

This is the front gate

This is the office for the cemetary There is moss and stuff growing on the headstone...I am going to take a scrub brush and clean it off. I am also going to take some flowers......nobody has been to visit for a long time.

At Martis prompting, I went to the Rose City Cemetary to visit Great Grandpa Charles and Grandma Mary Elrey. I found them, the cemetary is a beautiful old, very well kept little cemetary in the old part of Portland. It is only about 10 minutes from my house. I took pictures....so here they are.

Scenery pics

2008-01-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

I was talking to Marti and she thought I should post some of the pictures I have taken since we moved here. Just to whet your appetite for the reunion over Labor Day 2008. So here ya go!

A Great 2008

2008-01-02T17:36:00.000-07:00

We will be staring off 2008 with Matt and Maren moving to Willcox, Arizona on Jan. 12,2008. Then comes All the B-days in a row Olivia Lyn 19th ,Grama Lyn 23rd, Kevin 25th, Scott 26th who by the way will leave for Morristown New Jersey mission 26th of March, MTC first, Then comes Baby boy Allred Feb 4, we hope ! So our New year starts off with a BANG! We appreciated all the cards and well wishes over the holidays. I am not up to writing much these days. I just want you to know that even though you don't hear from us we still love you and appreciate your efforts to keep us informed about your families. Well, just wanted to say hey, and let you know about Scott. Love you all very much. Marti

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T14:31:00.001-07:00

Happy New Year

from The Hamlins

(kaylee was napping)

Snow Fun

2007-12-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

Mikey taking a ride

The view at the ski lodge
Marshall and Abby

Mark and me

This is us on Christmas Eve

These pictures are of the view along the road on the way to Snow Bunny

I hope everyone had a perfectly lovely Christmas. We really missed everyone, so I thought I'd share some of our latest pictures with you. We are getting into the groove again, boy! moving takes it out of ya! I think I'm back on a normal chore schedule, the kids like school, although they don't go back until the 7th. Mark is getting a handle on work,(what a mess that is!!) so we're doing fine. It is pretty grey and gloomy most of the time, but the beauty makes up for that. We are anxious to see what 2008 holds for us, and all of you. May we all be worthy of the Lords richest blessings this coming year and always. We love you all and pray for your safety and success daily. Hugs!!!!!

2007-12-24T21:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a Picture of the group at Aunt Party's house taken by Grandpa on his new digital camera.
Merry Christmas everyone, we missed all who were not there. Love You.

Happy Festivus!

2007-12-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

Here we are with our traditional aluminum pole! Also, it's Joseph Smith's birthday--celebrate with us (AFTER the Airing of Grievances and Feats of Strength, of course) by reading 3 Nephi chapter one, Christmas in America (because there's no better way to celebrate Joseph smith's birth than reading about the Savior's birht in the Book of Mormon!).

May all your Festivus dreams come true!
Have fun at Aunt Marti's tomorrow, AZ peeps...we'll REEEEEALLY be missing you!

Happy Birthday

2007-12-14T17:10:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to All who is born In December

2007-12-14T16:34:00.000-07:00

Steve!

2007-12-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

Scott and Steve, back in the day. They OWNED the 2nd ward primary.

Steve in Mexico, October 2007.

Doin' the happy dance. Rend Lake, Ill., November 2007.

I just wanted to give mad props (a good deal of recognition for all those who don't speak the "lingo") to Steve for reaching the pinnacle of Scouting: advancing to the rank of Eagle. I'm proud of you, kid!

Oh, and happy "I'm now an adult" birthday! I love you!

2007-12-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas

from the Melins, Lehmans, & Posts in Montana!

(Jacob Post, Heidi Melin, Gabriel Lehman, Addie Melin, James Melin, Jared Lehman, & Sam Post)

A Christmas wish

2007-12-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

"This Christmas, Mend A quarrel, Seek out a forgotten friend, Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust, Write a letter, Give a soft answer. Encourage youth, Manifest your loyalty in word and deed, Keep a promise, Forgo a grudge, Forgive an enemy, Apologize, Try to understand, Examine your demands on others, Think first of someone else, Be kind, Be gentle, Laugh a little more, Express your gratitude, Welcome a stranger, Gladden the heart of a child, Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth, Speak your love and then speak it again." Howard W. Hunter Have a beautiful Christmas Season, I love you all!!!!

Has Anybody Seen This?

2007-12-02T17:51:00.000-07:00

I just read about a pilot ad campaign from the church. It looks beautiful. Click HERE to check it out (you may have to click play). The whole story is HERE.

The spirit testifies of truth, even through the TV!

I love and miss you all!

We are having so much fun preparing for Christmas! Hooray for new family traditions and a whole month to be thankful for Jesus! I will have new pix soon at my blog.

Josh Groban Noel (O Come All Ye Faithful) Jesus Slideshow i

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Amy

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MIKE

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Take a Look

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Take a look

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