Grandma Sherry Brklacich

2010-10-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

Come little leaves said the wind one day, come over the meadow with me to play.
Put on your dresses of yellow and gold. Summer is gone and the winter grows bold.

Goodbye Sweet Summer

2010-09-27T14:39:00.000-07:00

Flying kites was the best at Bear Lake. Thanks Hilary for suggesting it. This was such fun.

Already looking forward to August 2011 and Old Historic School House. Start looking for your T shirts now to tie dye and tie dye kits.

2010-09-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

Home Sweet Home. At least if you are a cliff dweller. This was an amazing site. Guess you could sweep your kitchen dirt right over the side of the cliff.

2010-09-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

Is this just the coolest? It is a mural on the Walmart (of course) in Cottonwood Arizona. You have to be a teenager of the 50's and 60's to really appreciate this. Why were we in a Walmart in Arizona--long story.

And the days dwindle down

2010-08-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

It is in the air. That feeling of soon to be autumn. Watching the kids walking to school, new backpacks, new school clothers, yellow school buses: all of that moves us into the new season of our life and our families. Gardens now heavy with produce remind us how blessed we are and how our own lives are heavy with produce. It's all good.

Well, that didn't last long.

2010-08-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

So...The fella replacing Dad has quit and Dad is back to work full time again, until he can be replaced again. There is just no replacing that man is there? We will still take the days we had planned for Bear Lake and for Arizona. They have placed adds in their trade papers, and will be looking very hard, so hopefully this won't last too long--We won't let it last too long.

It is strange--so many people are out there looking for jobs, and we can't get rid of ours.

xxxxx

2010-06-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

perfect

2010-06-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

My friend Julie and I share fries once a week with our burgers--for my retirement card she found a one that says Your fries are my fries--- with a picture of a bag of fries on it------how perfect is that?? Friends are the best.

letters from grandma

2010-06-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

Just finished a new batch of letters to grandchildren. Look for them in the mail this week.
I am so.o.o.o.o.o ready for the next phase of my life here. I cleaned out my office way too soon, have nothing to do now.

A week from tomorrow

2010-06-07T14:30:00.001-07:00

It has been an enlightening ride--these past 17 years at prison. Finally, got my face on TV at the end of it all. Really am excited for this next chapter to start. I must admit that the gene pool here in prison could use a little chlorine. I did help get the "jumper" graduated. She even got out of mental health into regular population in time to put on the cap and gown. We couldn't give her any science credit for her attempted sucide--thought maybe we could do something about gravity, inertia, etc, but since she failed and lived she had to do a multitude of hours worth of packet work for it, and did pass the test with a 92 percent. Actually, we are very jealous as the "voices" speak only to her.

Birthday doings

2009-12-07T13:52:00.001-08:00

So--THE man in my life turned 67. Goodness, how did that happen. Took him to see Christmas Carol (Jim Carey) IMAX--3D--it was wonderful. Feels like you are right in the room with the actors. What a wonderful story--to be given another chance to make things right in our lives. But, I guess those of us who understand the Gospel, have each day to do better.

Another day in prison

2009-11-24T06:13:00.000-08:00

Vice Principal did my evaluation yesterday, and it was wonderful. Made me feel appreciated. However, I mentioned to him that some days I go home wondering what a nice girl like me is doing in a place like this. But, the best thing was just as he finished up an inmate came to my office door, and in front of the VP proclaimed her gratitude for me and how I have kept after her through the years of her in and outs at the prison. She was so grateful that I didn't let her take the low road, and whine on and on. Sometimes she thought I was being so harsh, and then it dawned on her that I cared about her welfare and maybe she just better start really applying herself. Now, her grades have improved, so has more self confidence, and feels really good about the future. I quickly advised her that she did all the work, but was happy to have been an effective cheerleader. When she left, the VP looked and me and said, "That is why a nice girl like you is in a place like this". Sometimes life just comes together perfectly.
Thanks to all my children for helping me hone my skills in the life skills department.

Wake Up Little Pilgrims

2009-11-18T16:02:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is soon upon us. Received an interesting e mail:

I'm thankful for:
The wife who says it's hot dogs tonight, because she is home with me and not out with someone else.
The taxes I pay because it means I am employed
The mess to clean after a party as it means I have been surrounded by friends.
The clothes that fit a little too snug as it means I have enought to eat
Windows that need cleaning, gutters that need fixing as it means I have a home
All the complaining I hear about the government as it means we have freedom of speech
My heating bill as it means I am warm--or almost
The lady behind me in Church who sings off key as it means I can hear.
The pile of laundry as it means I have clothes to wear.
The alarm that goes off in the mroning as it means I am alive
The crazy people I work with as they make work intersting to say the least.

Some things to think about, especially at this time of year.

Put on your dresses of yellow and gold

2009-11-08T16:22:00.000-08:00

I am still wallowing in Autumn. Dad and I took a ride yesterday out into the west desert to hunt down some dead cedar/juniper trees to cut for fireplace logs. We got a nice load--the ride was lovely. The little mining town of Eureka is still something right out of the past. I remember one year, Grandma and Grandpa Bateman cut a Juniper tree and used it as their Christmas tree. It was a funny ole thing--but, as fragrant as could be. Glad Shayne is better--and yes, it the midst of the flu the blessings are still overwhelming--and now Hilary is ailing--Melissa is on the upswing, and Vynessa is trying to get 'something'. Keep saying your prayers.

let me try that again

2009-11-04T16:07:00.001-08:00

These last few Autumn days, are a present pure and simple. They are summer's gift to us. My most favorite autumn memory is when I was conducting music for Primary in England, and I was asking the children what season it was when the nights get colder, and the leaves turn red and gold, and we can see our breath in the air. My Shayne shouted out "Deer Hunting Season"

Come little leaves said the wind one day. Come over the meadow with me to play. Put on your dresses of yellow and gold--summer is gone and the winter grows cold.

Autumn days

2009-11-04T16:06:00.001-08:00

No possible picture for this.

2009-11-03T14:34:00.000-08:00

My life at my job today is beyond words and pictures. The wonderful part is that I am totally calm--have no power to change it so why get in a dither.

Halloween was a bust at my house. 16 kids is all--so by 8 p.m. I was taking a walk out in the parking lot--but that was just plain haunting as I could see the spirit of ole Murphy dog running out ahead of me, and the crazy cats--what were their names--sneaking along the brick wall.
Ah, ghosts of memories past.

Hot summer Days

2009-07-17T17:33:00.000-07:00

This has got to be the best way to enjoy the summer--silly siblings, water, and nothing else to do but have fun, fun, fun.

Monkeys Up a Tree

2009-07-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

Another Tree Picture at the Jensens. This was so much fun, and we are so grateful that Hilary and Shawn like to have family come invade them.

This is for Dawn

2009-07-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

Here I am with my 5 crazy grandkiddos in Rexburg. I know you are missing me terribly, so this is just for you. And what is Dawn missing about me----well she is missing me singing to my desk and computer, and dancing in the hallway, and knocking on her office window, and bossing her around, and shredding, and shredding, and shredding.
Have a super day without me. And I miss you too, but I will never admit it. Tell Susan hello.
See you

This one is for Lindsy

2009-06-28T15:42:00.000-07:00

For the Flower child--by the way--what kind of remover do I use to take off the "sparkly toes and nails?

Dads are so important

2009-06-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

Macey is so happy to be able to hand out with her Dad.

Let's see if i can do it again

2009-06-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

Look at all these handsome men.

learning curve

2009-06-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

I am going to learn how to add pictures--by gum!! I did it.

Easy rider

2009-06-24T06:11:00.000-07:00

Guess whose husband surprised her with a bicycle for her birthday. Yep! And I have already ridden it around the church parking lot. Felt just like kid again. AND--it has a niffty detatchable basket so I can carry around my water bottle and 2 point snack. Jordan Riverparkway here I come.---I need someone (Lindsey) to come to my house and show me how to move pictures from my adobe photo shop to my blog. Tried it last night, but couldn't get it to cooperate.
Hilary, your pix of Rockwell in the hot tub was so.o.o. cute.

The ungame

2009-06-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

Had an interesting experience on Father's Day playing the Ungame with the kids, and a couple of grandchildren. The females were fine with answering self discovery questions. The males did OK, if they first couched the answer in some humor. Just goes to show once again how different we are. The best part was how Camille and Kiser were so willing to answer questions and gave lots of detailed information. Which proves that kids really do like to talk if asked questions that stimulate their brains and it does gives them a chance to explore their FEELINGS. Anyway, I had an insightful time with it all.

I'm Back

2009-06-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

I nagged Hilary, Lindsey and Shayne for not updating their blogs, and here I am--the worst of all the game. I am caught in a whirlpool of wanting my vacation to come, and wanting it to be August, so I can officially say, I have one more year. It is a very strange feeling, however, 16 years is a long time and a big chunk of life to spend in a consecutive career. I don't want to wish a year away, and yet I wish it was next year at this time, and yet, I can't quite fathom what that will be like. I am re reading Wanting More--The challenge of enjoyment in the age of addiction. So much to learn.
Today, I got a sourdough start that has been living for 23 years. I am truly committed to keeping this one alive. Now, that I have found out that you can freeze it when you are sick of stirring, etc. Anyone want a start form this oldie?

project ion

2008-12-25T17:54:00.000-08:00

So, tonight Shayne got my slide scanner set up and we scanned a few slides into the computer. the following is an example of our little trip down memory lane.

Merry Christmas

life in prison

2008-05-23T19:31:00.000-07:00

It never ceases to amaze me that I find the women at prison so interesting and so resilent. One gal came to me apologizing that she had missed my financial lit. class, but it was her baby that was backed over and killed by her sister's 14 year old daughter. She had been in another head state to say the least, but she picked up her homework and got it done so she could get a completion in her financial literacy class. We are going crazy trying to get the last of their credits in to get them graduated from high school. Our graduation is June 4th.
Vynessa called and at her doctor's appt., they tell her that Franchesco is at least 7 lbs. now. We are both grateful that she is on FMLA next week and won't have to work. Her C section is scheduled for the 30th. The folks who own the house the Jensen's want to buy called, and it looks like they will send them a contract. Happy days!! They will be coming to visit in Utah middle June until their house is ready for them in Rexburg.

Especially For Youth

2008-05-03T16:59:00.000-07:00

Took 3 girls from WestRidge to the EFY at the U of U institute center today. The 3 speakers were fabulous and so full of the Spirit. The main thing they tried to help the kids understand was that Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father loves them. I think I have just always taken that as a fact and at face value. I have just always felt His love even when I wasn't loving back. What a blessing that is. It is just so sad to think of those people who do not have that sort of comfort to know that we are loved by these two beings---one loved us so much that he gave up his son so that we could all return to them. One of the speakers was a lady who has summitted Mt Kilamengaro and Mt. Arat. She was really an inspiration. I would encourage all you Moms and Dads when you start having teenagers, to make sure they go to a couple of these. It is true that it really does take a village. And we need all the good people in the village to help inspire our children.

Baby Lunch

2008-04-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

We did a baby lunch for Nyssa and Franchesco--is that how you spell itl?It was wonderful to spend time with the Bateman, Oliver and Campos ladies. But, we missed Hilary. Lunch was really, really good--especially when the waiter threw the bread at us. This is going to be such a big year--with 3 babies and a big move for the Jensens. Exciting and exhausting.

Done Deal

2008-04-14T17:57:00.001-07:00

Shayne ordered our Dell-green--color not state of the environment-laptop yesterday. When the kids stated that I would never use the computer in my office , I explained that I would use it, I just don't want Dad mess'en with it. It is like when Pres. Monson in his talk explained how his wife left a note on the microwave which said don't let Dad use the microwave, or dryer, or stove, or........Dad is proficient at all of the above, he just leaves such a mess around them when he uses them---candy wrappers, hammers, tape, dirty dishes, crumbs.....
Today in Victim Empathy I did the Drunk Driving modular. I have some great video for this, and had lots of women in tears. Will they stop drinking--probably not---will they get a designated driver--one can hope so. Did you know that the liver circulates our entire blood supply every 4 minutes through out our bodies. Is that amazing or what?
Planted some pansies in my new pots out front on Saturday---and wiped down the green porch swing. So it is ready for a sweet, spring night of just swinging and thinking. Say, you all need to read Dandelion Wine--or re-read it.

2008-04-05T16:53:00.000-07:00

Conference was really historical wasn't it? I am so grateful that I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When they showed on the TV screen that this was the 178th conference, I remembered listening to it on the radio and they announced it as the 125th conference. I would have been about 10 years old.

I have a request for Mother and Father's Day for dad and I------a laptop computer----Dad and I can make up the rest of the finances for it. I need you computer geeks to start looking out for a great deal, and something that will work for us. Dad has even agreed that he needs to get more computer literate and would use a lap top. S0---there ya go.

I thought it was so great to hear Bro Eyring in his talk today, give hope to parents who are rearing children in such a difficult world. He counseled us to live the gospel and teach it to our children, and they will be blessed.

let me explain

2008-03-30T17:38:00.001-07:00

The pix of Michelangelo is me trying to figure out how to add a picture to my blog--and I did it. Didn't think it would work, but it did. Yahoo--The picture did not have anything to do with the blog post, but I didn't have a picture of a barnacle. However, the soap beard could be considered something like that.

barnacle on the blog

2008-03-30T17:23:00.000-07:00

I guess you will just to check on the Mommie Dairies to see what I have to say these days. Well, I guess I do have more to say--surprising isn't it? We look like a green house--just bought 3 flats of geranimums. Since it snowed today, we are hoping we can plant them by July.
I am really looking forward to General Conference this weekend---Yes, it is a nice break from WestRidge, and we don't have to be up at 6 a.m., but best of all, it is going to be a spiritual feast Sat, and Sun. I am sure.

Sunday

2008-03-16T17:28:00.000-07:00

Today in Sacrament meeting, our speakers were two of the house parents. I was really touched with their talks. The first gal spoke about being Christ-like and she said that those people she regarded as such were those who took Gospel knowledge and then really did something with it--really used in in their lives. Knowing it is one thing, implementing it is quite another. The guy who spoke told a story of his friend who in elementary school was getting bullied. And one morning he was given an orange for breakfast, and this particular morning he peeled the orange in one long peel and then put it on his arm for a bracelet, and for whatever reason he decided that the orange bracelet gave him special powers, and would protect him from the bullies. He prayed that this would be so, and all the way to school he told himself it would be so, and that he would be protected.
Before he got in the school door, a couple of bullies started advancing on him and he just knew that with his orange bracelet and his prayer he would be OK. As the boys got quite close to him, he held up his bracleted arm, and just screamed : A-A-R-R-GHGHG and waved his arm in the air.
For whatever reason, the boys retreated and never bothered him again. He asked us if we had that kind of faith in the Gospel and if we knew that it was that powerful for us with prayer and faith.

And now I would like you all to remember my brother Larry with your power of prayer, as he recovers from his first radiation treatment for his prostate cancer. He is feeling quite weak, and naeuseated, and a bit sad. He is a kind, unassuming person and the prospect of these treatments not working is a heavy weight. So your prayers of faith in his behalf for recovery, and peace of mind would be appreciated. Thank you.

What a life

2008-03-15T09:11:00.001-07:00

See--here I am again. Yesterday, I was with Laura getting my hair all beautiful, and she asked me about how I met Ron, etc. Well, I gave her the shortened version of meeting by accident on the phone, and how he told me on the 2nd date we would marry, but a mission would come first, and the interesting way in which he purposed to me, and then all our adventures for 20 years in the air force--all the traveling--the babies--his operations. And, it struck me just what a fantastic life Dad and I have lived. I mean it really has been so full of so many wonderful adventures--some scarry, some sad, some challenging--and I guess I wouldn't change a day of it. While I was recounting it all, it just struck me that WOW what a life we have lived. We are so blessed. And the past 19 years in Utah--yes, 19 years--almost as long as our time in the Air Force--have been filled with so many milestones: Marriages of all our children, grandchildren, careers, and the building of another entire chapter of our life. And we aren't finished yet !!!!!

Getting the hang of this blogg'en stuff

2008-03-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Sooner or later, I will get good at doing this--or at least be more consistent. I am grateful today, that Mike was safe while in the tornado in Atlanta, Georgia, and that Zeke has managed to be a wonderful kiddo with all these allergies, and that I got to spend some time with James--he can talk as much as Sunni when she isn't around. And, that we will soon be on our way to Oregon, and that Camron is willing to give his talents to people in Mexico (April 7 through 19th) However, that is such a long time that I don't blame Missy if she has a new husband by the time he returns. And that Vynessa's pregnancy is going well, and that Anne of Green Gables was on TV again--it just always restores my faith is the goodness of good people. And that Spring will be here before too long, and that I have such an interesting and challenging career at Utah State Prison, and that I don't need any huge and expensive items to feel this kind of gratitude.

Sunrise, Sunset

2008-02-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

It seems that my days melt into each other like so much sugar in hot water. How can that be when I don't have to run after little kids all day. Well, I guess I run after inmates all day. Good day at WestRidge Academy. We met with a gal after church and what a delight. She really is trying to apply the program, and at least says she is glad she got sent to Westridge as other wise she would either be pregnant or in jail. She admits that she was out of control, and was so hanging with the wrong crowd. Never underestimate the power of friends. My advise to you parents is to curb "Entitlement" with your children at first sighting.

Time in a bottle

2007-12-08T15:06:00.000-08:00

Dad and I have spent the entire day together, and it feels like it has only been a few hours. How I wish time would drag on and on instead of melting away like sugar in hot water. Of course, it would help if we could move a little faster--but those days are over. Just the fact that we accomplish all that we do is a blessing. Dad shoveled all the driveway, I did laundry, mopped the kitchen floor, then we went grocery shopping, put it all away, fixed lunch, took a short nap, and now on to Christmas craft projects and lesson preparation for tomorrow.

poor, poor hilary

2007-12-01T11:13:00.000-08:00

What would I do with out the technical support of my kids? Hilary has been on the phone with me for 45 minutes setting up my new blog spot as i forgot, lost all my passwords or whatever for grandma behind bars blog spot. So here we go again.
It is a wonderful snowy day. Ron has been shoveling driveway--can't get the snowblower to work.
I have been here in my office all morning--Christmas music going, and getting paperwork organized.
Here is one of my favorite poems by John Updike for this wonderful season:

First snow! The flakes so few so light. Remake the world in solid white. All bundled up, we feel as if we are fat penguins, warm and stiff. Downtown the stores half split their sides, and mother brings home things she hides. Old carols peal. The dusk is dense. There is the mood of sweet suspense. The shepherds wait, the Kings, the tree--all wait for something yet to be. Some miracle. And then it's here, wrapped up in hope-----another year.