Johnson Family

some news worth sharing

2010-02-12T15:34:00.001-07:00

Not sure who is still keeping up on this blog, but I thought I would announce our good news! Justin and I are expecting an addition to our little family! We couldn't be more excited. I am due Sept. 10th!

What a Man!!!

2009-11-12T15:22:00.001-07:00

Today I was lucky enough to have lunch with Grandma Johnson. After a delicious lunch that she made, I ran across this email that had been printed off... it caught my attention and as I began to read it, my heart was full of gratitude once again for the legacy that Grandpa left. He was so influential in the lives of so many people other than his family. How blessed we are to call him dad, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa. I am truly grateful for the people that have taken time to share these amazing experiences that cause us, his posterity, to pause once again reflect on the man that Grandpa was. I am certain he is doing this same kind of work on the other side of the veil... bringing souls to Christ and sharing his love for the gospel with all those around him! Enjoy!

Dear Sister Johnson,

I hope this is your correct email address as it was written rather differently on the note passed to me in Church this morning. I am Clarice Talbot Jensen and your husband was my first seminary teacher in Boise. My father, Wilburn Talbot, was the one who pushed getting that early morning seminary started because he knew I was starting High School that year and he had once been a full time seminary teacher, himself, and realized the importance of what it would do for our testimonies.

A few months ago when we saw the notice in the obituaries about Brother Johnson's death we were surprised to realize that you live here in Utah rather than Boise -- and even more surprised because just a few days before that my husband, Blaine Jensen, had asked me who was the most influencial adult in my young life. I had replied without hesitation that it was your husband because he taught us those first two years of seminary and was such a great influence on us. In those days the young people didn't have their own sets of scriptures and he was the one who opened my eyes, mind and heart to the scriptures and gave me such a love for them -- a love that has stayed with me throughout my life.

He was teaching Old Testament that first year and he made it come alive for us. My husband said he was one of the people who influenced him in his love for the Gospel as well. And that is really what he did for us. Not only did he help us appreciate and love the scriptures but he gave us fuel for our testimonies at an age when that made a big difference in how we thought and felt about the Gospel.

A few weeks after we read the obituary in the paper I was giving a lesson in Relief Society on being a disciple of the Savior, and I used your husband as one of my examples for I truly feel he lived what he believed. In my mind, those who are true disciples are those who not only talk about the Gospel being true but they live it in the way they know it is true. They are true to themselves, to the commandments the Lord has given us, and to their testimonies of the Gospel.

I will ever be grateful to your husband for those two years he arose early every morning and met with a group of young people in that room in the Boise Tabernacle with a smile on his face, a gentle kind patience with those who were not yet ready to open their eyes and their hearts to learn that early in the morning, and to teach us the stories in the Old Testament in such a way that they made at least some of us love those stories and believe in them as much as he did.

And thank you for helping him fulfill that calling -- which had to make a big change in the life style of your little family as well. None of us were smart enough to realize that you and your husband were sacrificing precious time together and with your family in order for him to meet with us so early each morning. Thank you both for your willingness to give of yourselves and your time to strengthen my testimony and give me that profound love of the scriptures that I treasure so much.

My uncle is, indeed, William K (or Bill) Dunkley and my mother, Mary Talbot, was his sister and their sister was Usa Cutler. I know they knew you well and cared for both you and your husband.

May the Lord bless you and comfort you as you adjust to a new life without Brother Johnson by your side. We are all getting closer to that age ourselves and feeling how precious the time together is for us. My husband was made the Stake Patriarch a few months ago so we will be able to live in our own home for at least awhile after serving many missions -- one as a Mission President of the London England South Mission, one as President of the Preston England MTC, one at the MTC here in Provo, one at the Church Offices in SLC, and several times as host and hostess for the Welfare and Humanitarian Missionary couples. Plus, some of the credit going to your husband and what he taught us and how he influenced us, we each served our own mission as young adults.

In case you should need to contact us our cell phone number is 801-380-3875.

Sincerely,

Clarice Jensen

Abby's First Day of Kindergarten

2009-09-03T11:13:00.001-06:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Proud to be a Johnson!!!

2009-08-20T23:08:00.005-06:00

This was the most wonderful celebration of Grandpa. I think we all felt a great sense of pride that day to be the posterity of such a remarkable man! So great to see everyone! Lots of love to our darling Grandma who we are so glad to still have around!

Johnson Reunion at Grandma and Grandpa's House

2009-07-17T12:45:00.004-06:00

What a couple!!!

How cute are these two!!?!?!

Mekelle got her apron at her bridal shower a couple months ago...

It was so much fun to see so many family members the other night at Grandma and Grandpas! We missed the people that couldn't make it! These were the aprons that grandma and Trudy made for all the granddaughters and granddaughters-in-law. Each one of them has special meaning. What a darling grandma we have....

Grandpa was doing well and had lots of smiles and handshakes to give out. What a great evening. Thanks to everyone who made it happen.

We're Getting Married!

2009-05-30T17:08:00.002-06:00

We also have a new site up; christianandalondra.com.
There you can read our stories, see the wedding details, and look at our pretty pictures.

We're actually both in Utah right now getting some things done for the wedding. We picked up the invitations which look amazing thanks to Alondra's creativity. This next week we will be getting the pictures printed and mailing the invitations, so be on the look out for them!

Walk Now for Autism

2009-04-22T20:52:00.003-06:00

As some of you may already know, our son Zachary Ryan (29 months), was recently diagnosed with autism. The diagnosis doesn't come as a surprise, Zac has been in therapy four times a week for the last six months.

With the official diagnosis we have decided to do what we can to become involved and Erin has volunteered to be a team captain for the Walk Now For Autism event at Soldier Field in Chicago on May 17th. Erin and I, along with other members of her family will be participating and if anyone is interested in supporting the cause you can follow the link below:

https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=288794&lis=1&kntae288794=EF0EB1355C4246538B901417B20BAB49&supId=253767528

Zac has made some significant improvements in the last six months and we are very excited to see how much he can improve as we continue with his therapy. We feel very blessed to have some great resources here in the community as well as wonderful friends and family.

We love and miss you!

Visiting Great Grandma and Grandpa

2009-04-08T21:52:00.007-06:00

Back at the end of February we came for a visit to have Grandpa see Ella and the rest of the kids. I am so happy Grandpa is feeling better and he looks so great. It was a great visit. We got to see Aunt Trudy and spend time with her also. The kids so enjoyed our visit, they thought it was great to see Great Grandpa. Grandpa was whistling to Ella. Was nice to hear him so upbeat.

Ella Grace Reese

2009-04-08T21:48:00.001-06:00

Well its been 4 months and I still haven't gotten my announcements out, so I figured this is the best place to post the late announcement to everyone!! Here is our newest addition to our family
Ella Grace Reese born December 10, 2008 at 7lbs, 8 0z and 20 inches long.
She is almost 4 months now! Will post some new updated pictures of her.
Love to all Scott, Kim, Tyler, Zack and Natalyanne

Grandpas 91st birthday

2009-03-23T08:24:00.007-06:00

We got to celebrate Dad's 91st. birthday. It was a wonderful dinner of course in remembrance of St. Patricks day. Corned beef and cabbage. A beautifully decorated table and the knitted dish cloths from mother for each of us. In one of Dad's journal entries he says, "A Mother who takes such an interest in her children (talking about mom) she just finished personal history books for Jerry, Ed and Bob.) is rare indeed!! We are a blessed family to have the wife and mother we have. And we are blessed to have the Father we have. Another journal entry on August 1977 says " Jogged a mile this morning w/Wanda. She can almost keep up w/me. Dad did exercise, kept a journal, read the scriptures and had family and personal prayer. He served in the church and has stayed true to the covenants he made at baptism. He truly is an example to us all. He has lived a great life to which we all should emulate and be grateful for.

A Day in AF

2009-03-14T13:09:00.002-06:00

Amberly and I spent the afternoon a couple Fridays ago down with Grandma and Grandpa Johnson. We were both nervous that the grandkids would wear Grandpa out, but he did great!

Annalyn wanted to read Grandpa a story, and successfully put him to sleep 3 different times.

Isaac loved playing checkers and Tic Tac Toe with Grandpa Brian.

And Elise just came for the babies.

In the 60th Wedding Anniversary book that we all helped to put together, Amberly is pictured holding this same dolly outside at the Boise house - she looks about 3 or 4 years old!! This one is definitely Elise's favorite!

(Who has that original by the way Sarah? I would love a copy of it as well.)

Update on Grandpa

2009-02-14T23:15:00.002-07:00

What a beautiful experience we are all having spending time with Grandpa. I have enjoyed every second I have had to be with him at this time. I feel his spirit so strong, and I am so grateful for the time I have been given with him here on this earth. He is strong and determined, and oh so darn so cute!!!

Today, he came out and sat in his chair. Grandma asked him if he wanted Trudy's kids to come and see him, since he had been sleeping most of the day. His reply was, "no" as he pulled Grandma onto his lap and told her she is all he needed!!! My mom ran and grabbed her camera, and took this picture.

I have had the priviledge of cutting Grandpa's hair and doing Grandma's hair, (it has always felt like an honor, not a service ) Tonight I was able to give Grandpa another hair cut. I can not write the feelings of love and admiration I have for him. Grandpa truly is an amazing man, and a man I am so proud to call GRANDPA!!!!

Reunion update

2009-01-22T11:46:00.002-07:00

Well I am sad but not surprised to say that construction isn't going as fast as we had hoped. I know a lot of people have connections to st george and could arrange their own housing and we could schedule 3-4 days of activities and utilize the spa for some of the activities. We could certainly have a few meals there for everyone and arrange some hikes, classes, and activities.

Christmas Break!

2008-11-22T10:22:00.003-07:00

This is your cousin/nephew/grandson . . . Jeremy. . .

Our little family is very excited to be able to finally make it out to Utah! It's hard to believe that it's been a year and a half since we've been able to make it out. We've had a lot of crazy/unexpected adventures over the last 18 months that have kept us away (including a new baby girl who is now 9 months old!), but we hope to be able to finally see as many family members as we can! It's been great to follow your individual blogs, we love reading and seeing pictures of all your adventures. We're flying in on December 17th and will be in town for two weeks. I realize that we will probably miss the big Johnson family Christmas get-together, but we will do our best to make the rounds and see whoever is in town.

We Love and Miss you!

Regarding Updated Addresses

2008-11-03T23:03:00.002-07:00

Just talked with Laurie and due to privacy and security reasons, which we faced last year, its best not to have addresses and personal info on the blog. Laurie has a pretty updated list, as do I from last year. So her thought was anyone who has moved in the last 6 months, please email me, Laurie or both of us privately and we will update our lists!!
Thanks so much
love to all

cr8storybooks@cox.net

Kim

ADDRESS UPDATE

2008-11-03T20:51:00.002-07:00

HI All,

Its Christmas Card Season, I was wondering what would be an easy way for all of us to have updated addresses to send cards out this year? I would like to update my list so I can send out cards and a soon to be baby announcement!!!!! Should we all post on the blog? Laurie any suggestions?? thanks all
lOve kim

Update from Michael - from Ed

2008-10-21T20:39:00.001-06:00

Michael’s e-mail continues to be very short. He seems to be very busy. They had two baptisms last week. He was excited about that. I’m pasting in a little of what he put in his e-mail today.

His reference to Takano is his high school teacher that taught evolution in 9th grade. Looks like he was successful in getting his companion to go to the YMCA and work out a little. His reference to me, Jacob and Spencer is about us spending a couple hours each Saturday out on the street corners holding up signs supporting Proposition 8 here in California, the proposition to protect the traditional definition of “marriage.” It has been a wonderful experience to do together. It feels at times we are holding up the ‘Title of Liberty’ that Captain Moroni held up in defending our beliefs. It was very interesting to observe the people that didn’t agree with us, they couldn’t honk their horns because honking in general means you’re in support. So they were constrained to just wave their thumbs down, flag us, and or yell out the window. In general it seemed to be more people in support than those that didn’t. It’s a battle here but with your prayers and support hopefully this important definition of marriage can remain in tact.

“ im eating better now- we had the 2 baptisms last weekend and hope to have MORE- sorry i didnt get to write u again this week- im really gonna try to write u and let u know about all my investigators and stuff- tracting is ok- some good experiences with it- some bad haha- tell takano i said hi and that theres no such thing as evolution of man LOL- LOVE YOU”

“i got up to 220 out here again haha but im back down to 209 and am trying now to get down and just stay steady around 200 probably- its hard cuz all the dinners here are BIG PORTIONS and then BIG DESSERTS haha- and u dont wanna seem ungrateful so u EAT haha- im just watching wat i eat throughout the day and cutting all junkfood and candy and soda out- they have a soda called Sun Drop its SOOOOO good- but i havent drinken soda since oct 1st and dont plan to for the rest of my life haha- but ya im doing good- we actually got to go to the YMCA in the mornings last week and workout cuz a member works there so she got us 1 week passes so i guess we'll just try to use them till they reject us haha- but i put up 225 (2 plates on each side) 10 times again- so i was happy. havn’t sung on the corners yet- my companion wouldnt do it haha- that is AWESOME about u jacob and spencer doing that with the signs- they r experiencing a lil missionary work but just tell them to NEVER be ashamed of what we stand for.”

Have a great week---Love Ed

Canning Pears

2008-10-15T19:56:00.002-06:00

My dad and I went down to Grandma's last Friday to can my pears. Well, the plan was for my dad and Diana to play with my boys, while Grandma helped me with the pears...that didn't quite work out!

My dad decided to just have me help Diana occupy the boys, and he and Grandma did them all!!

Isaac had fun reading some Halloween books with his great-grandpa!!

Max is still pretty much welded to my hip - so the plan worked out pretty well in the end. I wouldn't have been able to do much anyway!

Thank you so much Grandma and dad!!

Another "Classy" Birthday

2008-09-15T09:32:00.002-06:00

Our mother, grandmother and great grandmother celebrated her 86th birthday on sunday September 14th. We had a wonderful "zucchini" meal and of course it was prepared and served in style. Mother has grown tomatoes, and zucchini and green beans. She prepared chicken and rice and we had a delicious punch made with plum juice she had made. We had zucchini cake served with ice cream and peaches. Her centerpiece was a vase full of sun flowers grown in her garden. The sun flower follows the "light" as it blooms and grows, just as our mother has done throughout her life. We spent a few minutes giving fitting tributes as we reflected on her effect on our lives and the lives of our children. She was grateful for the gifts, but expressed to us her greatest gift is her children. Such a legacy of faith, courage and devotion, we all need to heed and pattern our own lives after.

More family highlights

2008-09-07T21:55:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple more...

Renae, Presley, Aaron, Avery, and Caleb

Megan and Presley, Amberly, Renae and Avery

Brian Jr., and uncle Brian

Erin, Megan, Amberly, and Renae

The Family BBQ

2008-09-07T21:44:00.002-06:00

Well, I'm so sorry this has taken so long (Leanne - thanks for the reminders), but here are some pictures from the family BBQ that we had up here in Sandy a few weeks ago.

As you know, Renae and her family were here from NC for a couple weeks. Then Megan and Pasquale came - overlapping their trips for only a few days. Amberly and I took advantage of those couple nights, and packed them full of FAMILY, FAMILY, FAMILY!!

Grandma and Megan

It was so fun to have the Johnson's stop by from California - just a few short days before Michael entered the MTC!

Joseph, Pasquale, Brian Sr. and Brian Jr. - trying to look tough during their 'old man's game' of Bocci!

Megan and Heidi

Pasquale, Megan, and Grandma

Please!

2008-09-04T22:39:00.002-06:00

ok, I heard about the fun evening on the 25th of August, and I really wish someone would post some pictures of Renae's cute twins, and of Megan(she came to visit right?), maybe tell us all that we missed out on, or how it went, isn't this what the website is for?:) :)

FYI!!

2008-08-27T15:27:00.002-06:00

I wanted to let everyone know, I have a high speed Kodak scanner that will scan your loose photos for you. 30 photos in a minute and so on. 100 in 1/2 hour and 4-5000 photos in 4 or 5 hours.

So if any of you have bins and bins of loose photos, old photos or new ones you would like to get digitized. I am going to be in Utah sometime in October helping Grandma with scanning some photos and a book, please let me know and we can work something out!!! I also have 1 gb flashdrives we can put your photos on!! It is so high tech I am loving this!!!

I can give you my price of .9 cents a photo or im sure if you have tons, your family so im sure there is something we can work out!!

love to all
kim
my email is cr8storybooks@cox.net

30 Years...

2008-08-24T23:11:00.003-06:00

Thanks to all of you that made it to the 30th Anniversary celebration for our parents! It was a great surprise, and we are so glad so many of you could make it!

Happy 30 years to a match made in heaven!

Finally Have a blog!! Please visit

2008-08-22T19:56:00.002-06:00

eveyone told me they were suprised I didn't have a blog by now, so I finally created one for our family, I have officially joined the family in blogging!! Please take note of our blog address and feel free to comment!!! Tami, hope you don't mind I stole your cute widget idea and background!!
Great taste!!

Love to all
Kim

http://scottandkimreesefamily.blogspot.com/

End of Summer Family Gathering

2008-08-11T22:00:00.003-06:00

Location: Storm Mountain Park 1000 East 11400 South, Sandy
When: Monday, August 25, 5:00PM
Phone: 801- 486-6778 (Amberly- call me with any questions)

I sent out an Evite Invitation, but realized that I didn't have everyone's email addresses, and some of the ones I had I'm not sure if they are the most recent. I know people see this blog so here is the invitation:

We are shouting out to any and all who can come to a Monday night celebration for our family. Brian and Diana are excited for their families to meet one another and celebrate their marriage. Renae and Aaron will be here from North Carolina (with their cute kids of course!!) and Megan and Pasquale will be here from Italy. What great reasons to try and get everyone together!!! We will have some BBQ's set up at the park and you can bring your own hamburgers or hotdogs to roast. Condiments and drinks will be provided. Bring your own buns, and something to share (salad, dessert). Bring your tennis racquets (if you have any) to join in some competition, and/or any yard games that would be fun to share. There is a fun playground for kids and a nice pavilion to sit under and visit. Hope everyone can come!! Aunts and Uncles, please tell your kids who might not be on this list!!! Thanks Thanks

Grandma's Sunflowers

2008-08-10T21:12:00.005-06:00

We stopped by Grandma and Grandpa's on Saturday and saw Grandma's giant sunflower! Isnt' it beautiful? Here's another picture so you can see just how big it is:

We also had a quick get-together with Grandma and Grandpa, Jordan and Jemma, and our pets - Lucky the miniature horse and Hooper the Yorkie (Jordan's holding the dog).

Water Skiing and Wake Boarding

2008-08-10T21:00:00.001-06:00

We spent some time at Utah Lake on Saturday, playing on the water.

Here's Grandpa, showing us his skills:

And Greg's latest trick - he's still perfecting it, but considering this was one of his first tries...

Jordan's working on his in-air and on-water wakeboard 180:

And Chris loves skiing:

Thanks!!

2008-07-27T10:20:00.002-06:00

Thanks to Trudy and Grandma for the ticket to that amazing concert last night at the conference center! We had a great time.
The conference center was filled to capacity! It was such an awesome feeling to be there! I just love that place!

This is Justin and I with my best friend, Jade, and her husband, Dusty.

Baby Kade is Here!

2008-07-11T13:47:00.003-06:00

Michelle and Cameron welcomed their 4th child Thursday July 10th. He is Grandma Trudy's 17th grandchild, and so cute. Check out Michelle's blog for more pics from the day.

Pioneer Day Concert with the Osmonds

2008-07-07T09:51:00.002-06:00

We have 8 tickets for the concert on July 25th and 4 on the 26th. On the 25th, 4 are in section 8 and and 4 are in section 14. If you are interested in going, please contact Trudy or Grandma Johnson.

2009 Family Reunion

2008-07-01T16:54:00.002-06:00

Fitness Ridge is building a new housing building that will allow us to accomodate up to 80 guests so it will be hard for us to reserve the entire facility however, we are also building 15 condos that will be beautiful. I have always wanted to do a few family weeks in the summer for kids to come with their parents to learn the importance of exercise and healthy eating so we have decided to do a family week the first week of August. This will make it easy for us to have a reunion at the same time because there will already be kids on the facility. We can rent out the 15 condos-which will be a lot less expensive than renting out the entire facility (which we should be able to do in trade with Barry and Richards help and anyone else) I am very excited because we will also have another large gym with a basketball court and a stadium seating lecture hall for movies. We will be able to plan a lot of fun hikes, and activities. We should be able to accomodate everyone very easily with the 15 condos. there will be some two bedroom condos and some one bedroom. All of the condos will be about 1000 sq ft. It would be fun to have everyone plan to come for the whole week. Again it will be the first week of august 2009. I would love to start to get commitments from people so we can start planning-it will come faster than we think. I would also love to have someone be incharge of putting a commitee together and organinzing the week-obviously I will be able to help give ideas of what would be possible to do but there will need to be a lot of different assignments made. I am not quite sure if we will just eat meals at the spa or prepare and assign our own-some things will not be able to be planned now but getting a count of who will be coming will be the first step so please leave your comments. Erin maybe you can email this post to everyone and they can email me or you back or just let them know to check out the blog and leave a comment.Thanks-Michelle

Trudy's Surprise Party

2008-06-10T16:12:00.002-06:00

The surprise celebration we threw for Trudy was a huge success! We were honoring her retirement from teaching violin and her birthday. There was a good turnout of people -- family members, neighbors, former students.... Thanks to all of you who made it! Click here to see the photos from the fun event.

Thanks to Grandma Johnson for securing City Hall, Leanne for organizing the program, everyone who brought refreshments, Cam for making the fun DVD, and Michelle for taking so many great photos!

Reunion dates, anyone...

2008-06-07T09:16:00.003-06:00

I know this is a silly post to do - but do we know yet the dates for our 2009 reunion? I know Michelle is almost ready to have her baby - does anyone else know???

Also, we need to see some of the fun 'Surprise Party' pictures...I unfortunately had to leave early, and didn't get any!! It was so much fun - what a priceless tribute!

Love, Erin

Taylor Ray...

2008-05-12T00:18:00.002-06:00

Tay was first attendant to the Prom King last night and his date, katie, was the Queen! We thought that was pretty neat! We like to brag about Taylor. He is an amazing guy. Are they a beautiful couple or what?!

Tay was

Christian Glen Taylor

2008-05-10T22:46:00.005-06:00

He has Arrived!

Born April 29th at 3:45 a.m.

Weighed 6 lbs. 7 oz.

18 inches long

Everything went well....we were scheduled to come in the morning of the 29th to be induced. But he decided to come about 6 hours earlier! I went into hard labor about midnight and had him about 4 hours later-

Mom and baby are doing well, we are adjusting to 3 children, but I couldnt ask for better daughters. They have been amazingly wonderful with him, and patient with me!

Hallie is a great helper and when I ask a favor she always (most always) replys "Id love to mommy"

And Savannah doesn't say much just gives Christian a quick kiss and rub on his head and then is back to what she was doing before:)

We love our little brother and are so grateful and feel so blessed to have him here and heathly!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-09T20:24:00.003-06:00

I had the greatest Mother's Day present today! Nicolas' nursery school had a concert for all the mothers. It was so fun...the kids had learned about 7 songs or so, and did such a great job in front of all the parents. I have attached a couple of still photos that I took, Nicolas is in the second row up from the bottom, right in the middle. I love the last photo because you can see the paparazzi of mothers trying to capture the moment. We are working on a website so I will be able to post the cute video I took and you can see them sing!

Race for Hope

2008-05-09T20:09:00.005-06:00

Last weekend I ran in my first race - Race for Hope. It was a 5k benefiting finding a cure for Brain Tumors, so I decided it was a good opportunity for me to try to get back in shape after Alex, while participating in a good cause.

It was a BEAUTIFUL day, not to hot, slight breeze, and NO HUMIDITY, which is such a bonus here in DC.

I have to say running a race - especially your first in the nations capital is an incredible experience. The race started just down from the Capital Building - and we ran up and near the building. It was so motivating and inspiring to see so many people who were out for this cause in support for loved ones lost, as well as inspiring to see SO many survivors participating.

All in all it was a great experience, it helped get me motivated to get back in shape, and I was able to raise money and feel like I was doing something for a good cause! Here are some photos of us at the race, and a memorial I put up on the Wall of Hope for my mom.

They just keep getting older!

2008-05-07T17:54:00.002-06:00

We celebrated Isaac's 3 year old birthday over the weekend. He is getting to be such a big boy. Wanting to do everything himself. He actually is a very good helper to mom and his little brother. Thanks to visits to Great Grandma and Grandpa Johnson's house, he has become quite the little puzzle expert!!

Grandma and Grandpa - we love you!

MOTHERS ARE FOREVER

2008-05-01T08:14:00.003-06:00

A friend is someone special..A person in whom to confide...Who knows your inner weaknesses, Yet is willing to stand by your side.

A bit more unique is a sister, and the comradery she shares; Through days of sunshine and darkness, You feel that she really cares.

Then a friend may run from trouble, A sister may leave you behind. They both may prove a bit faithless, when other interests they find.

But a mother is forever..From the moment your life had its start..From birth into eternity...You'll always remain in her heart!

She's friend..sister and confidant..One who'll forsake you never; No one in life will love you more..For a mother is forever!

This month is Mother's Day, We have been told we should Honor thy Father and thy Mother that thy days may be long upon the land that the Lord thy God has given thee.

Dearest Mother,

Sometimes I forget, Mom, to say important things----like "I Love You" I do.....and on your special day I want to thank you for being you. Thanks for being generous and teaching me what it means to be a friend...Thanks for your laughter and for teaching me how to smile at life. Even the tears we've shared helped me see that strength can grow from sadness. But most of all...even though I sometimes forget to say it.....Thank you for your love. What a legacy we have as your children and grandchildren. I am so thankful for the blessed opportunity I have had to share lifes experiences with you and for your Christ-like example dealing with these experiences. Happy Mothers Day Your Loving Daughter Trudy

The addition to our family has arrived!!!n

2008-04-29T23:10:00.002-06:00

Still no name, but baby Taylor is here, and healthy! Oh my, he is the sweetest little guy, and looks just like his daddy! He was born at 3:45 a.m. this morning and weighed 6 lbs 7 oz. He is so very precious! We'll let you know when he has a name.

gone private

2008-04-17T19:32:00.003-06:00

Justin and I have decided to have a private blog. If you would like an invite, please email me your email address at heidijohnson22@gmail.com

Johanson's on the move...

2008-03-20T20:25:00.002-06:00

We just wanted to update all of you on what is new with the Provo Johanson's. We are officially becoming Draper Johanson's next weekend!! It has been long awaited...but we have sold our home here is Provo, and are headed up to Camden Park Ct. I have been frantically trying to pack, sort, clean, and chase around my three kids!!! (so sorry we haven't come to visit lately Grandma and Grandpa)
We hope Grandpa had a wonderful 90th birthday! And we will visit soon. Love to all!!

Sheri's Birthday

2008-03-17T13:35:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to our beautiful Mother Sheri! We are so blessed to have such a mother of full of strength, joy, selflessness, testimony and love. She is one remarkable lady! We love you Mom!!! Love, your family.

Taylor was out of town, we missed him!!

PS, happy birthday to grandpa from your grandchildren. We love you!

Happy 90th Birthday Grandpa Johnson

2008-03-17T10:04:00.003-06:00

Grandma Johnson had us over for a nice corned-beef and cabbage dinner, to celebrate Grandpa Johnson's 90th birthday. Grandma has worked very hard to keep the memories alive and to help us understand our ancestory. We sang through the songs Dad would sing to us as we grew up. We caught the vision of detailed record keeping. Entries from Dad's journals were shared, one from now Prophet Thomas S. Monson who set Dad apart as Stake President in Boise, Idaho.
When asked what advice Dad would give us as a faithful, enduring to the end father, he raised his arm pointing upward and said, "Stay on the road, Stay on the road, Stay on the road", (Which road), "The road to Right". What great advice from our 90 year old Father and grandfather, who has stayed on the road.

Tyler's Baptism March 1, 2008

2008-03-11T23:05:00.003-06:00

Tyler was baptized on Saturday March 1, 2008. I am so grateful that Trudy, Grandma and Grandpa Johnson were able to come to Tyler's baptism. Thank you for making such a special day even more special!

I loved every moment on Saturday and made sure I didn't stress too much! Tyler was so excited to have all his friends and family around him. Thank you to Grandpa Greg for coming and being apart of our special weekend. Here are some pictures, How blessed I feel to have gotton a 4th generation picture! We enjoyed every bit of that day.

Love to all Kim

Happy Valentine's day

2008-02-21T11:41:00.002-07:00

We took the kids to Build-a-Bear workshop this year for Valentine's day. Here is a group shot with their completed stuffed animals. Isaac chose a dinosaur and named him Spikey, and Annalyn chose a bunny and named her Seraphina. Max just hung out in the stroller the whole time!

We hope everyone had a great day!!

Family Gathering

2008-01-28T12:59:00.000-07:00

We are grateful to our mother who has tirelessly and thoughtfully created moments for us to get together and enjoy each others company and good food. We are grateful that she is able and willing to host these special times. Yesterday was just another great experience for sharing feelings and good food. We missed those who were not able to come and appreciate the efforts made by Brian and Diana for the special treats and to all who brought such good food and treats. We wish the best for Renae and Aaron and their beautiful twin girls, so glad they were able to come and visit. The pictures are random and not all inclusive, but to just give you an idea. It was Erin and Joseph Johansens little boy Max's 1st birthday. Christian and Michael and Mikell came from BYU. We were visiting with Heidi and Justin, Christian and Michael and Greg came over to tell us he had recieved several texts telling him that President Hinckley had passed away. This was about 8:00, so of course we were all sadened but grateful for his wonderful life and his leadership in our behalf.

Sunday - Jan. 27th

2008-01-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

We have been spoiled having Renae and Aaron and their beautiful family here from North Carolina for a week or so. We were able to participate last week in the twins' blessings. It was such a wonderful night.

Grandma wanted to invite everyone over to her house Sunday night to come and enjoy some food and visiting with Renae and her family before they are off again to NC.

5:00 pm Grandma and Grandpa's Home

a light buffet will be served

Hope to see you there!

Each life that touches ours for good

2008-01-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

Aaron, Presley, Avery, Caleb, Renae

What a treat it was to stand next to Grandpa and bless three newborn babies. I wonder just how many he has been a part of over the years...children...grandchildren...and now great- grandchildren. The words from one of my favorite hymns comes to mind...

Each life that touches ours for good

Reflects thine own great mercy, Lord;

Thou sendest blessings from above

Thru words and deeds of those who love.

Thank you Grandma and Grandpa for exemplifying the life and love of Christ. I believe I speak for everyone when expressing great gratitude and love for you.

Aaron Syrett, bless his heart, gave three wonderful blessings right in a row. His brother's little girl, and then his own prescious twins, Avery and Presley. They were marvelous blessings.

Great Grandpa and Grandma Johnson with the twins!

Great Grandpa with Avery
Great Grandma with Presley

A Special Day!!

2008-01-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

This morning at 8:31 a.m. we welcomed Ava Rose into our little family. She weighed in at 8 lbs 2 oz. and measured 20 inches. Both mom and baby are doing well. We've uploaded a few more pics on our family blog. We love and miss you all!!!

Love,

Jeremy, Erin, Zac, and Ava

The Johanson's

2008-01-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

We sure had a wonderful time at the Johnson Christmas party. Thanks so much Barry and Tonya for having us all over, and for the nice gift. Joseph and I are so very grateful for a wonderfully supportive family. We love to see everyone and get together. I hope you all had a great holiday season and are geared up for the great 2008!!

The Eagles Nest Welcomes... TAYLOR!

2007-12-06T16:20:00.001-07:00

Taylor was welcomed by Grandpa Johnson, uncle Richard, cousin Taylor Harston, his dad Jerry, brothers-in-law Jake & Justin, and brother Barrett, last night into the Eagles Nest!! He received his Eagle Scout and we are so proud of him!! Thanks to those of you that came to support him in this great accomplishment! He is an extraordinary young man!

Happy Birthday Myrle 95 Years old on Dec 3rd 2007

2007-12-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS AUNT MYRLE

2007-12-03T10:34:00.000-07:00

Myrle turns 95 years old today, we want to wish her a very Happy Birthday and tell her how proud we are of her long and gracious life. We have all learned so much from her and have gained so much from her example. Thankyou Myrle for all you have done for us.

Together at Last

2007-11-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

What a fun event! Thanks to everyone that came and supported Barrett on "the best day of his life":) They are so cute and so in love! We are so happy to have Jeanine ("Neener") in our family. We now have a family of 12 and in May, Steph and Jake will have their 3rd... making us 13!!!

More Great Grandma and Grandpa moments

2007-11-28T22:56:00.000-07:00

Payton and Bryson singing for Grandma and Grandpa. Cy Meacham turned 3 years old on Thanksgiving day.

We Love Our Great-Grandparents!

2007-11-28T12:56:00.000-07:00

I really like Brian's last post. It's so great that many of our children -- the next generation -- have the opportunity to know their great-grandparents.

Grandma Johnson with Jemma at Barrett's wedding reception

Grandma with Brigham (Leanne's new little boy)

Jemma with Sunshine, one of Grandma & Grandpa's parakeets (notice the rubber glove!)

Generations...

2007-11-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

Jayce is so grateful that he has such sweet great grandparents!

Baby Jayce Brian Johnson

2007-11-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hello family! My name is Jayce Brian Johnson. I'm two days old already! This new world is a little different, but I think I'm getting the hang of it. My Dad says I am a fast learner just like him...He also tells me it took Mom 23 hours to get me out. Believe me, I was tryin' my best. Mom was so brave, she was so patient and calm. When I came out, Daddy did something I wasn't too happy with...he cut our embilical cord. When the doctor tried pulling me away I had no choice but to grab back onto the cord and hang on! I didnt feel quite ready to leave Mom's tummy...Mommy and Daddy sure love me though. They wrap me up tight...kiss me all the time...Mom even feeds me. She is so patient...its so hard to learn all these new things. Sometimes it takes me over an hour to eat. I'm slowly catching on to this sucking thing...
We got to come home today. Dad was a bit nervous to drive with me in the car...but we made it safe and sound. Home...a little different than my last home. Still, its warm, cozy, and I can still feel the peaceful feelings the Spirit brings. Sometimes I miss my real home...so many friends and family there. Sometimes I dream about Heavenly Father and Mother...I remember them assuring me my daddy and mommy here on earth would take very good care of me. They said I was coming into a marvelous family...lots of different grandmas and grandpas...lots of cousins...aunts and uncles...even puppies! Its so comforting to know they all love me. I am so grateful for their love. Last night I even got to sleep in Great Grandma Joy's arms...
I am real excited to meet everyone. I hope I can learn from everyone's great examples...I hope I can grow up real strong and serve a mission one day. Dad keeps telling me I have to learn chinese...he even gave me a chinese name! Sounds a bit weird, but he says the translation means little flying dragon. He says maybe one day I can serve a mission in China...
Mom thinks I got her hair...lots of dark hair...she also hopes I keep my blue eyes like Daddy...Dad doesnt share the same optimism. Dad gave me small lips and big hands...it looks like I got mommy's nose. I feel great all over...I feel so blessed that nothing went wrong. Heavenly Father is kind...
Hope everyone can come and see me. Mom gets tired...she likes to take naps with me...Dad's got big circles under his eyes...
Love you all!

Love,
Baby Jayce

If you'd like to visit our family blog to see updates on Jayce, we would love to have you. Just email Brian xiefamily06@gmail.com and we'll send you an invite!

puppies!!!

2007-11-08T01:11:00.001-07:00

We have nine black lab puppies at our house that are the cutest things you have ever seen. Yes, we did it on purpose. We have always thought it would be fun to do puppies at least once. Sage is a great mother. She is our almost five year old lab that is out of one of my dad's dogs, Voodoo. She had nine puppies....a huge litter....and it has been so much fun. I have set up a blog for the puppies....maybe after they go to their different homes I will get on the ball and start blogging for my family!! I have relived some childhood fantasy moments these past five weeks. I always loved getting right in the doghouse with my puppy when I was little, and I watch Elise wanting to do the same thing. It is so fun. We have sold five of the nine puppies and I am looking for three or four more great homes. If you know anyone that wants a puppy for Christmas send them my way. They are pure bred, papered puppies. We are asking $500, but if the demand doesn't take them all for that much I will be taking whatever offers I can get. If someone in the family wants one....let me know!! That would be so fun....and I might just give it away....maybe after some compensation for the first eight weeks of life!!

Check out this blog: www.sageandninepups.blogspot.com

Stinkin' Cute!

2007-10-31T21:24:00.000-06:00

We couldn't think of a better way of being stinkin' cute for Halloween than being a little skunk. This was Zac's first Halloween and next month he'll be turning one. He has been such a blessing and the joy of our lives. We have enjoyed the last few months in Chicago and are now preparing for the holidays and the cold. If you haven't already heard, we are expecting a little girl near the end of January. We love seeing the updates from all of you! We love and miss you.

Matthew Reber's 4th birthday

2007-10-30T22:08:00.000-06:00

Cameron and I, Leanne and John and all the kids took a weekend trip to visit Travis and Lauralee and below is what we found! It is scary what Flagstaff can do to someone. They threw a fun birthday party for Matthew. The cousins were just happy to be together. It was fun to see their new home. It is a really beautiful place. They have the forest in their backyard with great trails. They live right off of route 66.

Carving Pumpkins for FHE

2007-10-30T17:10:00.000-06:00

We missed Dad, but the rest of the family got together and had a fun evening of yummy soup by mom and carving pumkins. We also got to meet Barrett and Jeanine's new Boxer puppy Bo.

Hope you all have a Happy Halloween!

Mom, Haley, Heidi, Justin, Steph, Hallie, Jake, Savvy, Jeanine, Bo, and Barrett...

Our family just keeps on growing. Steph and Jake are expecting in May! It's so much fun!!!!

Great update to Blog - THANKS Laurie!

2007-10-30T13:09:00.000-06:00

I love the family picture Laurie put up on the Blog - what a good looking family!! Thanks for the work Laurie!!

Update on Family Addresses

2007-10-29T13:00:00.001-06:00

Email Kim with your addresses using the link on the sidebar. She even said she'd be willing to share the list with us all!

Family Addresses

2007-10-29T11:29:00.000-06:00

I am getting a jumpstart on my Christmas Cards this year!! Could I have anyone that has moved in the last 6 months, post their address for me!! I have most of them from Sarah's invitation list. But Laur I know I don't have your new one, maybe its on your blog, Renae I don't have yours, again these may be on your individual blogs, but just to be safe could you post them!
thanks
love Kim

Barrett's Sweetheart

2007-10-29T09:33:00.000-06:00

So on our wedding day Barrett was the one that proudly fought for the garter and he got it!!! That's when Jeanine came into his life... They are so happy and we are so happy for them. They will be married on November 24th. We love Jeanine and are excited to welcome her into our family! What a gorgeous couple, huh?

Justin and Heidi

2007-10-24T09:31:00.000-06:00

For those of you who were not able to be at our wedding, here are a few pics... Thanks again for all of you that made it and those of you that helped out. It was definitely the greatest day of our lives. We love you all.

Spykids!!

2007-10-23T00:22:00.000-06:00

Tyler, Zack and Nataly. My new spykids!!

Arn't they cute.

Kim's Heritage Mall Booth

2007-10-22T21:55:00.000-06:00

Kim's Mall Booth

2007-10-22T21:48:00.001-06:00

Just got finished a couple weekends ago doing my Heritage booth at the mall, it was really fun to have my kids help take down, they thought it was really fun to come to the mall in pajamas!!

Im also doing a "Mission Possible" operation with my Heritage team, so I took some pictures of all of being spy's. The kids thought they were so cool they were my "Spy Kids"!!

Kim

Alexander the Great!

2007-10-22T20:24:00.000-06:00

Hello all-

I apologize for the delay in getting something on this blog.

As some of you may know - our Alexander Christopher arrived September 18th. Alex surprised us and came about a week early, which is probably a good thing since he weighed in at a healthy 10 lbs 8 oz (just 4 ounces shy of the Syrett girls put together!) and 21.5 inches long. We were a bit shocked by the full head of BLOND hair he has . . .looks like the Johnson side came through on this one! He seemed to come out smiling from day one, and was impressing us with his facial expressions in the hospital. He has continued to smile and "coo" even more each day - - looks like he will be a talker just like his brother (and mother)!

He is a WONDERFUL baby and we have been enjoying him so much. Nicolas is such a great big brother and has been in love with him from the moment he arrived. He always wants to be around his baby brother and give him as many kisses as he can.

We enjoyed a visit from Dad and Edda shortly after Alex's arrival - they were both a HUGE help to our expanded family.

We are truly in awe of this little miracle and truly thankful for this new blessing in our lives!

2007-10-22T14:06:00.000-06:00

Grandma Johnson's beautiful fall flower garden and the orchid Sarah sent her for her birthday.

Syrett Sisters!!

2007-10-22T02:23:00.000-06:00

We are excited to announce the arrival of Avery and Presley Syrett. The girls were born October 19th and doing great. Avery was 6 lbs and Presley was 4 lbs 12 oz. Renae and Aaron are thrilled to finally have their little girls here and are planning on being able to leave the hospital on Monday or Tuesday. Caleb is wondering what he is going to do with two little little sisters!!

St. George Marathon

2007-10-13T21:30:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Heidi for keeping this blog going!

Did everyone know that Barry, Michelle & Cam all ran the St. George marathon last weekend??

You can check Michelle's post about it on her blog, and we'd love to have Barry post here too!

Email me so I can add you as an author...and anyone else who would like to be an author. We'd love to hear from you!

New Baby

2007-10-04T09:15:00.000-06:00

Check out Michelle's blog to see photos of Leanne and John's new baby boy, born Tuesday, October 2nd!

Labor Day at the Lake

2007-09-17T22:51:00.000-06:00

We spent a wonderful weekend with the family at Bear Lake. Anyone that knows our family knows that we are obsessed with Bear Lake! There is no better place than this beautiful lake in the company of our whole family. We had a wonderful time.

The happy little newly weds Justin and Heidi

We took a hike to Bloomington lakes and here's a picture of the boys.

Tay and Hay

Here are our cute parents...

Barrett and Jeanine...Isn't this place gorgeous???

Here is Haley and Dad on the family boat.

Is this cute or what??? Jake and his little girlie girls.

This is a great picture of Barrett in his new Malibu...

Barrett with his little princess Jeanine.

Some of you will recognize the cabin behind us... we have many many memories there.

Here is little Hallie with mommy Steph

Savannah is getting a tan.

Notes from Trudy about 2009

2007-08-20T22:31:00.000-06:00

Richard has started the ball rolling for the 2009 reunion at Fitness Ridge in St. George. He is donating time and marketing expertise to try and help the spa bring in enough money to be able to compensate Michelle and Cam financially so they can block out a week for the family. Should be really nice if it works. Richard and Melanie came and spent friday night, Doug and Trudy took them on a horse back ride, and Richard and Doug came back and went for a swim. Then Saturday, the spa's best hiking guide (Leanne, 7 months pregnant) took them on a great hike, we came back and Richard met with Michelle and Cam and Tami their partner again to finalize some marketing details and then they left for home. We will keep you posted . -Trudy

Lyrics from 60th Celebration

2007-08-16T16:43:00.000-06:00

Grandma Johnson requested the lyrics from the song Trudy's grandkids sang at 60th Anniversary Celebration Program:

Set to the music of I Have a Family Tree (in the Primary Children's Songbook)

I have a family tree, with branches by the dozen

I have grandmas, I have grandpas,

I have uncles, aunts and cousins too

We're here to celebrate our Grandpa and our Grandma
We love Grandpa and his songs

We love Grandma and we love her treats

How do you do says Grandpa, but watch out for the handshake

Grandma loves to hear us singing,

Always smiling when we sing for her

Tyce and Rachel's Wedding

2007-07-21T14:39:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Rachel and Tyce who were married on July 6, 2007!

Happy 4th of July!

2007-07-05T19:54:00.000-06:00

Jacob, Michael and Spencer with one of Doug & Trudy's horses.

Hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July holiday!

Wedding Dinner for Rachel & Tyce

2007-07-05T19:43:00.000-06:00

Rachel & Tyce had their wedding dinner on Tuesday evening, July 3. It was at Soldier Hollow, in Midway, Utah. Their wedding is coming up this Friday, July 6!

Moving Day for the Rebers

2007-07-02T20:47:00.000-06:00

Lauralee, Travis and their family moved today to Flagstaff, Arizona.

Here is their new address:

2485 West Coronado Ave.

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Good luck to them!

60th Anniversary Celebration

2007-07-01T18:33:00.000-06:00

We just celebrated Clair and Wanda's 60th Wedding Anniversary in Logan, Utah. It was a huge success, thanks to the many hours of volunteer work and sacrifice of family members who made it possible! Thanks to Grandma (Wanda) for this vision she had of getting family members together to share their memories of their beginnings in beautiful Cache Valley, and to acquaint us with our heritage. We want to carry on this tradition of reunions and memory making. Grandma and Grandpa are our link to understanding and knowing our heritage and our ancestors. We appreciate so much their efforts to make this possible.