It was a very good paddle

Good news (for a change)

We just got a call from the urologist. The biopsy Chuck had came out negative. That has got to be the really first good news that we have gotten concerning his health in a long time. Well, that and he no longer sees the endocrinologist.

airshow

I havnt been to an airshow for several years. Last time I went I took mom and dad and I think that was in 93 or so.

At about 2:30 they made and announcement over the intercom, that they were going to have a moment of silence to remember the people that were killed in the 9/11 attack and those that have sacrificed so much serving and giving their lives.

Before this there was the hussel and bussel and the noise of 60,000 people. People milling around. Jet engines blasting, Just the noise you would expect at an event like this.

When they asked for the moment of silence you could hear a pin drop. It was almost errie. EVERYBODY stood and there seemed to be no motion. It seems like everyone gave respect and honor where it was due.

At the end of the moment of silence, 3 p38s flew in a missing man formation and taps was played to honor the lost.

I have to tell you the whole experience brought tears to my eyes. Not only for the lost, but for the apprecation and respect that was shown to all those that have made the ultimate sacrifice.

( the 2 smaller planes are P38s, the other is a fa-22

Picture of Nathan

I thought you might like this picture of my son Nathan, he was a little guy; sure has grown

Now I know where agates come from!

Sandi and I took a walk on the beach last week after school, and you'd never have guessed what I saw.....so I took a picture. This finally answers the question for me. I'd post a picture of a Bigfoot on the beach but you probably wouldn't believe it.
Jim
P.S. BTW, those comment deletions are mine. It was a test.

Jess cousin

Just wish to have the family know, that Sunday, we are going to Gaston, to attend, his cousins, ashes being spread, over his mom and dad's resting place........ He lived down in Mexico, and fell dead in the bathroom.

We saw him shortly when he came up here to see the doctor, and was having problems with his legs. It happened fast, that is the way I hope it goes for me, when the time comes.

lets see where this one goes.

I have wet ear-wax. thats funny, thats what 23&me told me also. never paid to much attention to it.

Accusations about comments

Dick's right, deleted comments always show that it was "deleted". As far as I know, there is no way to delete a comment without a record that it was once put there. But I'll look through the blog and see what I can find. In addition, to my knowledge, no one has been censored. The only time a comment has been removed is when there was a sensitive situation with a child, and the 'parent' of that child asked that the comments regarding 'their' child, might offend said child. AND, I should add here, though 'none' of your comments have been deleted, some personal responses are better said via personal email. For instance: "Peter, you are a total idiot, I want you to quit robbing little old ladies and torturing pacific coast squid". Something like that should be reserved to email, and settled one on one.

I'll let you know if I can find record of Lili and Jess's comment. But at this point, all evidence looks like computer or server error.

Just when you thought the worst part of caring for someone has passed. NOOOOO.
Lets put it this way'
I would rather get an enema than give an enema.
It wasnt really that bad. just a new adventure. the hard part was making sure the patient was comfortable and relaxed. Once he got comfortable all "went" well.
So he had his biopsy and we will get the results in the next 10 or so days.

oh, and we may get rain. woohoo :)

STORAGE

So far we have the unit, done that was the stuff from Longview, and finishing off the garage where Jess is at, so that will be done this next week. Also working on the two small unites at storage, and look to have that finished next month. I would like to have it done sooner, but I can only do so much.

Jess is keeping what he wishes, but am trying to talk him into sale the bikes on eBay, then he could get his dream bike, laugh!!! Oh, by the way, if and when he does so, I will be getting my bike also, so we can ride, would like a bike with the side car, so Tipper and Sadie can ride with us, also would like a custom bike for Jess, to have fun with. As he says, he needs to learn to have fun....... laugh, and I would like to see him doing this. I told him for all the years he has paid on storage and stuff, he could have bought his Harley, laugh!!!

We are looking forward to see the Mustang and Crown Vick done, and take a road trip to California,.......... I want Jess to see the car's at the place where Chuck and I visited, and also look at some locations down that way to show him........

We are down sizing, and I am going to have a downsize sale, asap, he is seeing the light on this, also looking for a location in Vancouver. He can go out to see his friends, in St. Helen's, but he does not wish to live out there, as there is nothing to do, and he's learned to like to go out for his coffee, in Vancouver.

We drove around today, and went to Camas, then ended back in Vancouver to do something. I am letting Jess figure out what he wishes, and he's put his sight's in Vancouver to make his home.

I am going out to St. Helen's to work on the place and be with Tipper, our Border Colley, who has cancer. It is getting bigger, on her, we have a full size bed, she is on, in front of the fireplace. We plan to her there at the place until she goes, and then, we will see if we keep it, or sale it. Jess does love his pet's, and we at least are not going to have any more kittens, as all the cat's are fixed, yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!

So, I at times have had to put my foot down, as Jess just is not up to stuff like he used to be,, and I wish to see him, have some fun, so, downsizing I am. Such a horrible person, but I don't like messes, as it also speaks of how your mind is. Laugh. Once we find the place in Vancouver, then I really will sale what we don't need,.......

This way when I do leave, I know all are setup, with what they need, and they each can manage, then off to the real work, so I can have a break. Jess, can have his fun, and I can do the job I so love. It is so much easier to work, to me work is play!!! It's hard work, in what I do, but so rewarding seeing it come into being, what we all are striving for, in the work. I am a trouble shooter, and go and look at, what I am asked on, in problems, then help see it through, and the setup, for the desired plan,that takes place, then move on........ It's not always easy, as sometimes things are complex. But it is work I love, and the problems of working for systems, for others and the need that needs to be done.

Jess wishes to stay home, as he could join me if he wished, but that is his choice and I wish to have him have what he wishes in his personal life. That is all the counts for me, and for me to work to make that happen for him.

My plan is to see all done, with the storage, by winter time, so I can go back to work, as Jess said, he is overwelmed by it, but he does look at what I am doing, and I keep what he wishes, that belongs to him. I do wish to take a break when the car's are done, so that we can drive down to California, to the place I wish Jess to see. Looking to have the Pink Crown done, as MacKenzie, can drive it for her test, in January...... Would be a sweet deal, and the tested, would love it,... that way the person, would see, if they allow her to drive this, then she's a good driver, laugh. Mustang will also be done.

Lueria Son (Max)

Hello everyone in my wonder family(:

This is Max Miller, Lueria's middle son, hope eveything is going well for everyone lately. And I just wanted to take this momant and speek to everyone about just our life in the family home. I'm sorry I havn't spoke or seen anyone lately, and I deeply miss you all, it's been to long.

McKenzie

So to start off our family has my sister back McKenzie, we've all have missed her, and thank you for all of the prayers. And now she has been doing great, she has reattached to our family and is doing wonderful(: As of 9/1/2010 (September 1st, 2010) she got her driving permit, she sadly failed her first try, but she tried again. And now Kenzie is going into the 10th Grade at Gresham High School.

Christian

Christian is doing really well he is Tae-Kwon-Doe and he is going Blue belt, he is now 6 away from black belt(: I'm really proud of him just like the rest of the family, and once and awhile Uncle Jesse and Aunt Alicia pops in and takes Christian out to Tae-Kwon-Doe and sometimes a lil' treat(: In the summer of 10' me and Christian went to a hunting camp to get our hunting license, We passed with a 90% and now we are legal hunters in the state of Oregon. Christian is going into the 5th grade.

Me (Max)

I've have been realgood lately(: Just today mom (Lueria), FYI whenever I say mom I mean my wonderful mom Lueria(: So continuing, mom today just took me to Niketown OMG I loved it there. I got a new pair Jordans, and a new coat(: I love it! But we were shocked to see a total of like $300! Haha.. But lately I've been getting ready for my new High School: CHS (Clackamas High School). I've been Jailbreaking iPods, iPhones, and iPads then after I just get on my Xbox and play the night away. This year I've had the chance to get my some licenses of my own(: I am now, in the state of Oregon, a legal: Hunter, and Boater(: I can opperate aquatic vessels now(: Pretty happy about that. I'm going into the 9th Grade.

Dad

Dad has been very well lately. He has been workin some swing shift it sucks, I miss him but what can he do. He has to provide for the family, and we all understand that, it's just hard sometimes. And Daddy got a new toy, can you say 97' CORVETTE(: This Dino graduated in 88'?

MOMMY(:

MOMMMY! She really wonderful yall. Like belive it, she helps me through the hard times, cooks for me, treats my father well(: I wish I could show her the same unlimited love she gives me, I'm really short wit her and I sometimes fell bad bout' it. I love her a lot(: I'm happy you came in my life mom(: This young Dino graduated in 90'(:

Well thats it keep you all posted erry 2 weeks, love you all. Keep safe.

Maxwell Mathias Miller

9/1/2010

10:53pm

Suzy's family

Suzy is without her computor right now so asked me to send a note on blog about the accident Bianca and Jordon and Michael had. They were playing on the dunes at Florence and crashed into eachother when they went over a hill. They are all home but Judy's boyfriend Michael. He has broken ribs, collar bone, pelvic bone and punctured lung. Last I heard he was still in ICU. This happened this last weekend. Please pray for him. You can call Suzy for more info. I hope I got this right.
Bonnie

kind of funny, but not

I think i might of mentioned this before, but when ever Chuck and I go someplace where we have interaction with people, inevitably some one will say "take care of your dad".

On the other hand, maybe they are complementing me on how young I look.

nah

Jess.......... :)

Jess just found out the bank has agreed with lower the interest rate from 8% to 4%. Also have downsized one unit at storage, Lis, Lili unit from Longview, so that is finished and been removed. Starting to work on the garage unit at the apartment, so that we can put the Mustang in it, once it's finished.........

Some of the trees around the place (Cider) has a bug in them so they are dieing, but not the one in the front,...... so these are going to be taken down.

Tipper is doing ok, and Lili is moving out to the house, to be with her, but the cancer is getting bigger, but she's still playing, and Sadie, is having a problem with it, as she can smell the cancer in Tipper, has made her new home under the light table in the bedroom area....

The house is getting ready to be remodeled now, with the placement of new wiring and plumbing. The dogs love it that they can see through the studs, and they look forward to when Jess and I go out to take care of them.

We will look forward to see the storages, cleared and all is downsized, but we are also looking to find a place in Vancouver for Jess, as the hospitals and care he needs is so great. Jess is happy in Vancouver and loves it that he can step out for his coffee, when ever he wishes, and is doing so great,........

All is good on this front, as we are working to make life better for the both of us, love allllllllll, and so happy with all in the care that those in need have, in their life.

So, family, what's the news?

Certainly you have something more exciting than going to a workshop to learn the new and improved way of teaching Language Arts to 5th grade students don't you? Tell me how much your garden has grown, or maybe tell me of how hot it's been in your local area. Come now, at least share the new beer that you've discovered. How about that piece of trivia that you're sharing with a coffee buddy.
Can you tell I don't want school to start yet?
Jim
P.S. Read any good books lately?

Lisi and Lili------------60th

Just wanted to let you know we had the greatest, Lisi Uncle and myself at Lueria's, place.

We were talking about our 60th and I would like to have Lueria help me with this, for my sister, and her mom. As it would be so special.

Lisi and I are in this kind of thing, and as Lis and all have missed out on the last year, and we have so much to be grateful for, Mac safe with mom, healing time going on within the family, Dick being there for me, while I was east, and wishing to heal between Jess and Dick, understanding all the problems this last year. God has been good, Chuck is in the best of care, so grateful with the news, and Dicks perfect for my little brother, treasure both of them.

Our family is spicy, and so like each other in way's, but so much love.!!!!!

Lis and I told Lueria about how much I loved our time at Suzy and here place also seeing, my sister Joyce. I don't wish to miss the next family reunion. We were talking about the coast, Forance as Suzy and I visited it......... it's a beautiful place. Lisi needs to be in a location for her treatment if she needs it, also for Jess and myself, a hotel to stay and a coffee location.

Also I would like to see where all member's are together, not spread out where we can't meet.
Love to see everyone, and also it would be great to have a date set,...... Lisi likes the location where it would be easy for here to come.

Put date down,............ please, it does help that we have the RV and I know Lisi and I would like to see ALL the family. We need to have it where Suzy can get away from work, also, lough!!!!!

As she needs a break also,,.... love her, family, let's heal and love,...........

ALSO KNOW THAT I WISH PEACE IN OUR FAMILY, UNDERSTANDING WE ALL NEED TO VALUE EACH OTHER, NOT RUN AWAY FROM EACH OTHER, we are family and raised if different homes, and have picked up those teachings also. We have raised our families, and be there for others, adding extended families, what a treasure we are to each other and learn, from each other and the lives we have lived. Giving space to heal if need be, but remember to always have the door of love open, understanding each point of view. That is the best treasure we could give each other.......... Loving God and the Power He, gives us in understanding and forgiveness God has shown for us to follow in our life.

God is Good.

Family thank you all.

My Aunt and I had dinner tonight and laughed like i did when I was a kid. My mom and I had a great time too, but i feel my heart and God need to reach out and start fresh...................................
I just want to say Thank you to all my Uncle's and Aunts for the past few years helping me deal with a lot. My Aunt Alilia and I have been thru our ups for the last 40 years, and harder last 5 years of hard times. lol. I know we have both been their venting to family to get us thru this. Some think good some will think bad. I can't say, but I am wrong if anyone feels it was hurtful. I will be glad and happy to say we are at a great place now and have been for a few months. God has taught me so much thru this.  I know she has a loving heart and we all make mistakes or have misunderstandings at times. I know that in life the best relationship go thru hard times. I am blessed to have all you in my life and can't imagine life with out you guys. I wonder if that was the lesson for me, to see how important each one of you are in my life and to lean on others too. I am a upfront kind a girl. And I can't say that if my Aunt and I didn't go thru this hard time if I would have not reached out for understanding to others. I hope each one of us learns forgiveness Like uncle Peter has been talking to me about for the last 2 years. It's hard. but important to understand and learn we are all human. I and others do let each other down and we respond with anger, bitterness, and shun . Life is short and loving each one for the individual strengths and forgiving their mistakes takes a lot. I know I have hurt some and not meaning to. I love this family and having any misunderstandings is hard. I hope each one of us always puts our difference aside and enjoys each other for the next family reunion. I can't imagine my aunt Alilia not being at one, nor Uncle Dick, or any other person.  My kids all year can't wait to see everyone ( not just some people). Just know I love each and every one of you. Thank you for all you have done. And thank you for working with my Aunt Alilia and me thru this patch. We are stronger and better then we have been in the last 5 years. 

also on another note, my daughter is doing fantastic. She was gone for 4 days and went to intense counseling for  extreme ADHD. I am happy to share that is what she was diagnosed with. She is a little me and doing great. We have an amazing relationship and I have learned so much in the last month. I can't imagine life without her. Thank you for the calls and prayers. I needed them. At night when Rich went to work I would cry myself to sleep worried about my child. She even wrote a letter that states I'm her hero. She learned how much I cared about her. My kids have been my rock, but not only them but a lot of you. Thank you more then words can say. Uncle Dick, Peter, and Jim for checking in with me and Aunt Glenda. Aunt Glenda for all the wisdom, and uncle jess and aunt alilia for doing signs and taking care of my boys while i was working. I know many didn't know details. I was so weak i couldn't call. This might seem strange and weird post but again Im an upfront kind of girl. Sorry again for hurting anyones feelings including my Aunt's. I pray for peace, love and to forgive. Lord knows If me and Aunty can do anyone can. lol. 

Sorry the reunion didn't turn out in Calif. We all had a really awesome time with Suzy and her clan and Lili and Jess and a awesome surprise visit from Jim and Sandi, (wish their kids and grandkids had been there, I was really looking forward to seeing our new babies and of course the Gonz.) And I missed seeing Kara. At least she's back home in Oregon now.

What a awesome couple days. We took the RV down and Lisi and Rick and I had a ball with it. I have wanted to try out a motor home for years. It was more fun and so great for Lisi. We are planning a camping trip to Frog Lake with Lisi on the 23rd in the RV. It's opened up a whole new world to her. Unfortunatly, I realized after a booked those days, which were also the only days available, that the 23rd is also Suzy's Bday. Crap!!!

Jim and Sandi, we (Lisi, Lili and Jess and Rick and I) are planning a trip in MH to see all of you in Oct. Just let us know when in Oct is best for you.
Forgot to thank you for the wine.

I am getting my 2 cent's in early but I prefer to call our reunions get togethers. Reunions put a pressure on those that find it hard to make arrangement for what ever reason to make it.
I for one find that the majority of those that are able to get together or have health issues that make it harder to travel far live between Jimbo and those in Vancouver. I for one think Suzys location is just the right distance and since she has the biggest family that has to make the most arrangments for time off together, that we should let her make the dates and locations and then each of us can see how we can work it in. I know she is able to have some flexability but not a lot.
There are always those that still may not be able to make a get together, but with our family growing so big that has to be expected.
I also know Jim and Sandi like to get away but also with our new babies in their family, it might be an issue.
Just my 2 cents.

We just got pictures of our new grand daughter Aria, born the 9th of August, pictures are on my facebook under Josh Lange.

Well, good news.

We went to the Endocrinologist today. She was very pleased with the last blood test that Chuck had. She said his A1C is very good. A1C gives a total breakdown on the blood glucose levels for the last 3 months and is more accurate for measuring over a period of time. Monitoring is good to see what BS levels are at a given time.

Anyway the Dr. says we dont have to see her anymore unless his BS goes high or low on a consistent basis. Like 3 readings in a row.

So no meds and fairly good diet has made a real difference.

So that makes 1 specialist down, about 4 more to go.

found Jack

Took Chuck over to mitches for a little while on Sunday. Decided to drive down to Manteca and go to Bass Pro Shoppe (got some really good Rocky Road) and then over to Sanora and up thru Angles Camp, San Andreas, Jackson up hwy 49.

Jack enjoyed the view at New Melones Lake.

It would of been nice to have more time so i could enjoy seeing more, but i had time restraints.

Ive driven this route about a dozen times while i was working and always enjoyed the scenery,

Happy Birthday Bianca

We wish you the best.

PnK

Got to go kayaking today

Happy B-day Sandi

happy birthday Jim

Joyce

My sister Joyce is having a gathering, for her marriage, on the date of the family reunion, and we'd like to attend it, so Jess and I will be going to her event, and Lisi would also like to attend.

It has been a long time sence the sister's have been able to gather unless is was for the dealth of a memeber of the family. It came on the date of the family gathering for the Garcia and Rouzaud, I hope all will understand. Joyce is very special to us, and we'd like to be there for her, at this time............. I hope that you all understand.

Thanks, it will be great having all the Lange sister's gathering for this, joyous time, we will miss not have our sister JoAnne at this time, so we wish to attend, as we also lost JoAnne this last year. She was Joyce the true blood sister of Joyce, and was adopted also. As Suzy, Lisi and myself we adopted by the Langes.......... So it will be great to have all the sister's at this, just will miss Glenda.

Love to all Jess and Lili

We shoulda maybe said.....

Happy Birthday Glenda (10th), but she's never on the blog anyway! But in case you see this, we love you.

Talked to....

Bonnie AND Rick this morning. Contrary to popular belief and urban legends they did not fall off the face of the earth. In addition to being Lisi's caregivers they've been in the unenviable position of moving into a new residence. Hearing about their pain and suffering in the moving process made me tired just listening to them. They've not had internet service in about a month, so I'm sure they'll make up for lost time and news as soon as they get connected.
Jim

When the good Lord...

calls me to where ever he feels that I should end up, I will fall down on my knees and thank him for the experiences I've had and the life I've lived.
Carpe diem

Crescent City

Life is Good!

So, how was your 4th?

Here's mine. Click the title.
Jim

Happy Birthday Bonnie

what is it now, 39 1/3 ?

Is it an impression of a big foot or a print of Bigfoot?

Sandi, Calvin, and I went to a lake called Sanger Lake about 1-1/2 hours from here. Dick knows as he's been there. It was foggy and cold in town when we left, but it was nice and sunny about 20 miles east. It was really nice and warm there and I ended up getting an endorphin rush, maybe two. We took the kayaks up and the chainsaw. The lake was in his classic shape; beautiful and pristine. We had it to ourselves. There was snow along the sheltered side of the lake and that's where I found the print in the snow. I wanted to take a dip in the water so I cut a load of wood and worked up an honest sweat before getting in the water. Yes, it was a "10" day on on scale of 10.
Jim
P.S. Actually, I "found" the print after I took my shoe off and stuck my foot in the snow.

Happy Birthday, Chuck

Click the title to see more

I took Chuck for Lunch at the Red Robin.

Then we went to the Grace Foundation horse ranch. They rescue abused horses and allow people to adopt or sponsor a horse. They also hold special events for children with Autism, ADD, and other disorders.

Then we went and saw the A-Team movie. I think he had a full day. I know i did.

its a cats life

Dick

Gonz is helping mow the yard

Yeh, Gonz is getting the hang of mowing the yard. He really took to it quickly. "This ain't so hard, Gramps." Pretty soon he'll figure out how to start the engine. Gonz today, Alex and Gabby tomorrow.

Joyce

My sister is now, married, so happy for her............

Graduation

Glenda came down on Thursday evening, spent the night with Lueria and family. Karen and I picked her up on Friday. Saturday was the graduation, Sunday the reception. Then we had brunch with Jesse and the family on Monday, then off to Portland to take Glenda back to the airport. Whew.... it was a busy weekend, but well worth the time to celebrate his life.

It seems like just last week when we talked to our pastor and his wife about them wanting to adopt baby Jesse. Now Jesse will be working through the summer and then on to U of O for their forestry program. Pastor Ron is a little younger than I am, and often comments on how hard it is to keep up with his family. There are two more after Jesse, one 17 and one 14, and one older and in college. When I look back on the life they have given Jesse, with the continued sacrifices of finances, time and energy, it causes me to again give thanks to God for his continual blessings on our family.

The fam is growing

This is the first time where the kids came over and all the cousins were together. It was a good morning. Yes, we feel blessed and fortunate.

Gabriela is here!!!~

At this point she is 18 minutes old.

My new little sister was born at 1:17 AM this morning, June 4. She weighed 8 lbs. 12 oz. and was 20” long. She is a really pretty little sister with a lot of dark hair. Mom and Dad are coming home with her this afternoon. Mom is doing very well considering what she just went through.

When I get older I can tell Gabriela stories that start out with “It was a dark and stormy night….” (It really was). Wait a minute, I have to think about that, if it’s night it’s dark, so dark and stormy night is redundant. Oh well, by the time I’m able to tell her a story I’ll come up with a different beginning. Yes, this is Gonzo again. Kids of my generation are born with an extra computer gene, at least that’s what my grandpa thinks, but now I have to go take my nap. I’ll give you another report later.

Big brother,
Gonzo

My baby sister is on the way!!

We all went to the hospital this afternoon about 2:00 and Mom was admitted into the hospital. Both of my grandmothers are there with my dad. My cousin, Alexander, is taking Uncle Andrew and Aunt Rachael to see my mom before her labor gets too crazy.Grandpa is here with me at the house and I'm going to be taking a nap soon. He'll probably just sit out there and watch TV. He may even do some of his work from school, but I doubt it. I'm expecting my sister, Gabriela, later this evening.
Gonzo

Does anyone see happy moms here?

It was a good day.

Baby Watch Part II

I'm really not sure who is doing most of the talking here, but whatever it is they're deep in thought. Claudia is due any second now.

Jim

A picture only a mother, father, son, daughter, brother, sister, grandmother, grandfather, uncle, aunt, or cousin could love.

Meet Alexander James Hooper

Rachael's parents did arrive in time for the birth. Everyone came through the experience in fine shape. Alexander weighed 8 lbs. 6 oz. and was 21" long. We all tried to guess the weight and length ahead of time and the price was a $100,000 bar. I'm not going to even get a crumb as I was way off.

welcome Alexander

8lb 60z 21 inches

Dick

Done deal

and we are 1 more strong :)

Congrats to Andrew and Rachel.

Dick

Jim and Sandy

are waiting in the hall 5:27pm

family reunion Emigrant lake Aug6-8

please save a site at 1-541-774-8183 or Jacksoncountyparks.com

sites at $18 per a night for tents. Im in site #35 i think. under lueria miller by the RV area's . Check in is at 2pm. 8 people per site 2 tents max

Waterslide  $7 for 1 1/2  and $12 for 3 hour play on waterslide.

only 2 cars per a site and the second car is $6 a night added. 

5505 hwy 66, Ashland Ore

from 1-5, take Ashland exit 14, east on highway 66 approximately three 1/2 miles to park turnoff.  

Hi, just a update about Alicia. My mom.........

Hi, I talked to my mom and she said she would like you to know.  She is having surgery June 3rd at 9am . They will put some tube in her, her kidney is not working well.  She has had some tough news for her and I. She needs to start dialyses. She will be having it 3 times a week i believe and go to a clinic for it.  I don't know the name of the hospital. I know its in Vancouver Wa. I feel so sorry about this news.  I took her to the beach for mothers day weekend. We had a blast together. She says she wants to come to the family reunion. But we will see how she feels.  Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Rick has been helping her with these issues.  I don't much details so any questions please ask Mom or any of them. My mom does not mind them sharing information.  Uncle Jess and Alilia have also been invited to all the meeting. Its great to know she has great support group. I feel blessed mom has her sister's there for her. She is happy. Please feel free to call my mom Alicia anytime. She is a night owl now days so call anytime. hugs

Baby Watch-Wednesday

No baby as of 7:44.50 PM.

They're ready, just add baby.

Rachael and Andrew are ready for a baby! She is due on Wednesday, May 19. Alexander will be making his presence known any time now. In fact there are already large signs around town that say things like 'Alexander for D.A.' (Daddy's Adulation).  Randy and Claudia are due on Friday, May 28. As I said before, we're going to be knee deep in Hoopers around here pretty soon.

Jim

Family Reunion

Hey All;

Well every year my kids and I have tried to make it. But as our family grows and finances grow shorter, it is not easy to take the time off and travel each year. Well this year, Bianca turns 21. Big year for us. She chose the place to celebrate; not Las Vegas as we were sure she would, but Florence, because she has a quad and her mom and her are addicted to the dunes. So we've rented a vacation house and will be there for the weekend of July 30-Aug. 1. If anyone cares to join us there, you are welcome. It's under an hour from Eugene. So the Lange/Schells will be having thier own family reunion..we'll miss you all. Hopefully all 30 + family members that are north will consider driving to Florence for the weekend.

Suzanne

Sandi and I went to see the Lupines on Saturday.

Click on the title.

not to over ride PnKs post...

But i made a major accomplishment tonight. I made fish for Chuck. This is a first in my 35+ some years. and he ate it. Which in its self is an accomplishment.

Thats all i have to say.

LOOKS LIKE 3/C !

OK, looks like 3/C. Let's go for it! Anyone who wants to go into a family camp site, Lueria has a large group tent site spotted. It'll hold a bunch of people, and it appears large enough where we can have our meals. Contact Lueria she'll fill you on the cost- which split up does't sound like very much. We're looking forward to seeing all who can make it. Love you all, PnK

A man (eventually) and his remote is a beautiful thing.

Now that I have your attention let's vote on a possible time and place. As I see it we have three possible places (1) Florence (2) Valley of the Rogue Campground in Rogue River (3) Emigrant Lake Campground and Waterslide in Ashland, that have been suggested and three possible dates. (A) June 18-20, (B) July 30-Aug. 1. I think that this is the where Suzi and family have a prior plans. (C) August 6-8.

Speak now or forever hold your peas.

Jim

just trying to get a clear picture.

So it looks like the reunion this year is a bust? Seems we all cant make a decision on when, where, or who can make it. Last I saw posted was the idea of June, which only makes it a month away.

Some other locations have been suggested, but to far for us down south to drive or to far for those up north to drive. Dates are an issue for others that already have prior commitments that dont make it feasible to take time of so close together.

Trying to get a reservation this late in the year could prove to be a challenge.

Not trying to be negative. Just want to keep the possibility of it still happening a probability for those that can make it.

Dick

This was in my creek a while back

I thought since we don't have a whole lot going on the blog you might be interested in some of the creatures that visit our creek. I snuck up on it as it was easting huge quantities of periwinkles. Love you guys. PnK

Future plans

An article on CNN caught my eye a month ago, and I mentioned it on the blog. Thanks to everyone that e-mailed me privately about their future hopes, objectives, and desires. I feel that goals, plans, and aspirations can include many things. They can be large or small, long-term or short-term. They can be kind gestures, long-term goals, personal achievements and travel destinations. It made me think about the future but more importantly to focus on enjoying the present.

Like I said, I would post mine later. I have two lists, one for specific goals to be accomplished during 2010 and one for long-term goals. For me, I find that if I don’t have goals written down they are not likely to happen and life leads me rather than me leading life. This will  be an evolving list, but it's a list.

Camp / fish on lake in Alaska with HB   
Hike the Chilkoot Trail again this time w/ HB   
*Many many road trips with HB
Many many road trips with HB 
 *Share as much time as possible with kids, girls,  and grandkids
*Get to understand biological family better
See Death Valley with HB    
*Hike portion of PCT (Seiad to Mt. Ashland) 
*Put a geocache on Hooper Peak 
Take grandkids on trips with HB  (road, kayaking, fishing) 
Go on motorcycle trip with HB  
See the Great Wall of China with HB  
Search out unique geological experiences with HB
Find a volunteer program to support with my time  
Write a book 
Make another list.

* means the summer of 2010
HB means Honey Bunny (Sandi)

Jim

MRI

We went in for the MRI tonight, I asked when they would have the results. I expected them to tell me 6 weeks. Well come to find out they will have the results tomorrow and in the system by wednesday.

So hopefully we will be hearing something by the end of the week.

Ill update via e-mail.

im to tired to give this a title so you figure it out

My 'graduation' acknowledgement tonight

Click on the title.

Sandi's Good Idea

Let's try to get everyone to say when they CAN meet. Make your connections give you at least 5 different weekend that work for them. Then we can match dates and get the greatest common factor. The sooner we can get these dates, the sooner we can make a plan. Sandi (and Peter says) By the way. Florence is good, but a bit far for some perhaps; and a bit cool for others.

reunion

http://www.loonlakerv.com/oregon-coast-weddings-locations-family-reunion-sites.html

Just a suggestion. We've already paid for a vacation house in Florence for the weekned of the 30th. Bianca's 21st Bd. Florence is a lovely little town.

LET'S KEEP TRYING!

OK, it looks like we hit a major snafu. Let's try this again. As I see it, neither of these dates work. If we choose either date, we'll be missing a very large block of the family either way. Let's try anther weekend. Let's try to chime in early on a suggested weekend. WE CAN DO THIS, KEEP TRYING!

This we know: Chuck, Lisi and anyone close to them can't commit to any date, but we know they will come if they can---it's the larger (connected) family groups that have so many obligations that have the most difficulty. Karen and I, and other 'independents' have more open schedules. The reality is, it's up to the busiest of us- the big connected families, to arrange these dates (sorry). So get on it! By the way, Karen and I really want to see each of you- even the black sheep. (I think it's our sister Glenda this year)

long walk off a short pier.

Well not quite. im not Jim ;) I did think about going for a swim, then i used common sense.

I got to get away for awhile today. I have been looking forward to going up to Donner Lake for 4 years. Driven past it many times, but never gat a chance to stop. So i decided that i would take the trip today.

Donner Lake is about 35 miles west of Reno, which I thought seriously about going to, but thought best to save that for a better time.

The lake is at 6800 foot elevation. The weather there was BEAUTIFUL, as you can tell. I just hung out by the lake and enjoyed the mountain air.

I really do love this are, only problem it is California.

Emigrant Lake link

Click the title.

Emigrant Lake for the reunion?

I'm going to suggest Emigrant Lake for the reunion. If you click on the title it'll take you to a link that tells more about it. I've taken my class to the waterslides there before, and we've always had a great time. I'm thinking of doing it again if I can put it together as an end of the year field trip. It's really close to Ashland and just before you get to the lake there's a KOA. Since it's a good halfway point for everyone it would entail equal amounts of travel for all that choose to come. BJ, it's only about 15 miles from the Rogue River campground but there's more to do that is closer. I'm thinking the first part of August???

Click Here for Reunion Discussion

I took the boys fishing today. The girls stayed home and did a craft project. This is Noah's largest Trout he's caught so far- 17.5"! We weren't even sure if they could fish, it's the first day the pond has thawed enough to get a hook in. Noah is 14 years old, and still likes hanging with grandpa!

On the Road

Karen and I are off to see the kids in Colorado. Right now we're in Grand Junction, CO. On the drive today we got out and enjoyed a walk down the main street of an old mining town, Helper, Utah. This poster was on the door of one of the buildings. It's titled 'child miner'. Just a kid with a pipe & pick. There was almost no occupied building, just a lot of old buildings, circa late 1800's, with updated facade to various times. 70 today in Grand Junction, just beautiful. We'll reach our destination and our grandchildren tomorrow.

Family reunion

Are we planning a family reunion this year? We for one family needs to plan around family trips, kids vacations and Bianca's 21st BD.

Living as if they had only one day left

I just ran across an interesting article about what I queried everyone about. The article inspired me to add to my list. The last thing on my list now is 'Make another list.' It's interesting to read the comments at the end of the article. Click the title.
Jim

Broken Hearts

What Bon and Sandi were speaking of ("emotional intelligence" and "love held back") it reminded me of all the people I've read about, or known who have died of a broken hearts. Do you suppose there is a relationship to people getting sick from depression, anxiety, stress etc. What about these rich guys who end up in prison, then get sick. What was that Enron guys name? Then Madoff, he ended up in the hospital soon after his incarceration. Just recently, and elderly couple I know, died within two months of each other! Happens all the time. Do you know anyone like that? I think there's a lot to 'the joy of the Lord is our strength' kind of disposition. Think about it, how many people do you know who have died of broken hearts?

Susan Davis

Chuck and I got togeter with Susan last night at Mitches place. For someone that just had a major surgery, she looks real good. I think the last time i saw her was in 92 ish.

She will be here for 2 months, so hopefully she will be able to spend some time with Chuck. she has a busy schedule on her hands, so we will see.

What is LOVE anyway?

As an attempt to contribute to this blog- per Jim's hopes for the family's involvement. However, not wishing to overwhelm this blog by being too wordy. Here's a subject I think is relevant to everyone; You can click on the title to see these thoughts.

WHAT IS LOVE?

Have you ever thought about it? What is love? What actually happens when two sets of eyes meet and they 'fall in love'? Is there something physical, or is it something spiritual? What is the actual mechanism that triggers this feeling of 'being in love'?

If you watch much TV, you hear it all the time, “I just don't love him anymore”, or, "mom, I think I'm in love". When you hear something like that, shouldn't it provoke questions like, what has happened? What actually ceased or started, that was there or stopped in their relationship?

Love is often defined as an emotion, an action; a.......

Sorry I've not been as active.  I'm just popping on to say that I love you all, turned in the last of my work for Japanese Thought, got an 85% on my term paper (whoever wants to read it, email me and I'll send an attachment in my reply) and an A-  that the professor hadn't gotten a chance to post, but he sent me an email letting me know my grade.  So, 3/4 classes for the semester are done, and the 4th 1/2 way done, and a 4.0 average so far.

I'm bushed.  And I'm probably going to take my last English class next semester, just to get it out of the way...

Kids are doing well.  Athena had her open house last night.  I forgot to take the camera with me, so I didn't get a picture of her mission project, so I'll have to take a picture of it once it gets to come home again.  She worked really hard on building her model.

Merlin also decided that he wanted a "boy haircut."  So he has short hair nnow, which he likes.  I knew that waiting until he was ready for and wanted one, instead of fighting him, would pay off.

Good night family.  We love you.  Those that are not so healthy, I'm looking forward to you feeling better.  Those that are healthy, stay that way please.

today

was a busy day. we had our last PT visit today. now one of the challenges is to get Chuck to cooperate in continuing on with the things that she gave us.

after she left the VA nurse came and did an evaluation and checked out what i was doing. :)

one of the things that she asked chuck was "what is your goal?" he said to start driving again. She made the comment that that probably wasnt going to happen. then asked him his realistic goal. he really had no comment.

so the plans are that we will finally have a dietician come in and go over his diet and help to do meal planning.

they are also going to have a psychologist come in. she could see that there are some mental issues there. why ? who knows for sure. and how to treat them.

i did talk to her personally about some of the things that i have that concern me. she told me that what i was doing was the only way to handle things sometimes. i really dont want to be specific on the blogg. what she told me was a reiteration of the same things that Suzi told me also. Thanks Suzi.

chucks eye app

we are trying to get his MRI to a earlier date. as per the eye Dr. his vision is 20/25 and he sees color very well.

so far this is what the Doc is saying. this refers to what is know as 3rd nerve palsy, he dosnt think that there is a tumor or damaged gland behind his eye. The damage may of been a result of his lack to maintain his BS and his mini strokes. I think that one led to the other. But thats just my thought.

here is some reading.

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1198462-overview

Family

I enjoy this blog and would like it kept active. I do read it to keep up on family. I enjoy the pictures, I just have so little time and to tell you the truth, I am not sure what to say to family. We're like strangers at times. But I love you all and hope we decide to be more active on this family blog !

Who knows what this is?????

Jims ninja rabbit

Proton Description and Pictures

I've written a description of the proton treatment process and had the technicians take some pictures. Click on the title.

Gonzo is walking......or dancing.

He starting walking since I've been down in Loma Linda. Randy and Claudia sent me a video and he looks really cute. Actually, now that I look at him he could be leading an orchestra.
Jim

eye dr

took chuck to the eye exam today. the nurse made the comment that she thinks that it looks like the issue with his eyes may be related to a thyroid issue. so they made 2 more appointments with some specialist. we see them on the 25th. in one eye he has 20/25 the other wasnt as good. but dont know what it was.

Big announcement

Follow the title link for details on an anthology for kids and by kids.  If you know any kids (or people that know kids) that would like to send submissions, please feel free to spread the word.

~Teresa

Summer is Coming!

This was last summer. The girls were running our .001 class rapids.

Do you mean this one?

Jim

I need one of those signs that you saw in the bathroom ;)

Saying Hi.

BJ's in the Paper!

Left to Right

Front Row:
Explorers Todd Cain, Dylan Baldini, Kody Williams, and Zack Fernandez

Row Two:
Firefighter Ben Garcia (yay bro!), Assistant Chief Alan Bodiford, Firefighter Coleton Baldini, and Firefighter Paul Fernandez

Row Three:
Firefighter Ralph Dalessio, Firefighter Wes Brow (he got Firefighter of the Year for the Department), Captain Rick McGowan, and Captain Debbie Kleinhans

Row Four:
Firefighter Tim Ferguson, Firefighter Tim Dickinson, Firefighter Bruce Robison, and Chief Rick Dexter.

new friend

Sunday Glenda and i went to the Embarcadero. I dont ever remembering being there before. walking along jack made a new friend. You should of seen the look on the guys face when i asked him if i could take a picture with my jack-a-lope and his pet. It was the kind of reaction you would expect in San Francisco.

Anyway it was a good day and the air was fresh and fishy.

Sandi came down for the weekend!!!!

We had a great time. On Saturday we went to Palm Springs and saw where the tram operated, marveled at all wind turbines in the area, drove around town, visited an art festival, and almost viewed the longest playing movie in town 'The Sex Life of Dates.' A town near there is reputed to be the Date Capital of the California. I'm not a big date fan as they're too close to raisins, and I'm not a big raisin fan either.

Sunday we drove out to the desert to Joshua Tree National Park and I almost froze my tail off. It got down to 33* at the higher elevations. We had to turn around when we tried to go over there by way of Lake Arrowhead as there were chain restrictions in effect.
While at the park we saw a sign that said "Exhibit" but we drove past it as I thought it was too cold for any kind of exhibiting. Maybe if we come here later on I'll consider it.

Gonz March 6, Sat.

 

 It's been awhile since I've posted a picture of Gonz, but here's one that Randy and Claudia sent us today.

Jim

I thought of Illa when I saw this:

No, it's not a story on angels. It's a story on hyper-sensitivity to radio waves and such. Illa doesn't have it this bad, but apparently there are people out there who can't be around technology at all. One wonders about so many allergies; odd miladies like Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue; a myriad of auto immune diseases, and on and on. I remember June Lange telling me that women had narrow hips because of all the hormones in beef cattle. I think about what she said every time I hear of someone with one of these odd ailments. Click on title above.

Chuck

The nurse came in today and was very pleased with Chucks BS readings. And his Carb intake for meals. Infact she was so pleased that we have been maintaining the levels, that she told us that she saw no reason that she needed to come out anymore. The VA will be sending one of their own nurses out once a month.

We will still have the PT here 3xs a week for the next month. Yesterday she put Chuck thru a good work out. I had to go out of the room because it reminded me of the PT that i had to do for 6 weeks after my motorcycle accident. But he only gets about an hour compared to my 4+.

We went for a walk today around the block. Remember the first time it took 2 hours? Well this time it took about 45 minutes. He even walked a pretty good pace. Sometimes even without shuffling.

alls quiet...

around here. The PT came today and spent about an hour with Chuck. Looked over the house, as far as safety, and did some strength evaluations with Chuck. I would think that she did that to evaluate what kind of PT shes going to give him.

She will be here 3xs a week, for 4 weeks at this time. She told Chuck that she wanted to see him walk every day :) So that is good . for both of us.

At the end of the week we have a Dr. appointment with an Endocrinoligist. I guess they examine Glands that are responsible for the secretion of hormones into the blood stream, from what i see. But ill have to look for more info on it.

Anyway thats it for now.

Thanks for all your encouragement and support in this adventure.