Who's your mama

My couch is my friend

2012-02-10T20:29:00.000-08:00

It is the Grand Central Station of my home. I camp out here a lot lately. Reading, using my I-pad, writing cards,etc. Sometimes I am sitting, other times reclining. I have spent so much time here this past week that I have a laundry basket close by to hold various items of little or no value.

Lest you worry, I went to work today and put in my time there. I also did several errands, loaded the dishwasher and a few other chores. (I may be relaxed but hopefully not a sloth.) Preston and Les decided to go and see Star Wars 1 in 3D tonight and even though I was invited along I didn't want the couch to be jealous that I was spending an evening out. So, here I am happily reclined and enjoying a very quiet Friday evening. The couch is not complaining and neither am I.

I feel like Chuck Noland

2012-02-07T18:24:00.001-08:00

You know, the guy that Tom Hanks plays in the movie Castaway? The scene where he has a really infected tooth and he is in the cave and resorts to knocking out the tooth with the ice skate... I cringe just thinking about that. You just have to close your eyes when you see that scene.

This is the part where I feel like Chuck Noland. (refer to above description) The pain began last Sat. and I thought I had bit down on a popcorn kernel. Strike 1. The next day i determined it must be a sinus infection. That can cause tooth pain, right? So i promptly made a Dr.'s appt and got some antibiotics. Pain worsens and yes, Strike 2. Finally on day 5 after several days of sitting with a heating pad attached to my face and taking MUCH more than the allotted dosage of Ibuprofen to keep a level of trying to maintain sanity, I decided I must as a last resort call the dentist. They graciously got me in this afternoon and yes I will be having a root canal at 8 am tomorrow morning. Through this week of extreme pain i have a new appreciation for people who deal with this as a fact of life.

Last night in desperation I was googling remedies for tooth pain and was seriously considering a trip to buy some whiskey. That didn't pan out but I did get a laugh from this one person's remedy.
I kid you not, this was a posted comment on a site.

I had this bad toothache twe on the same side of my mouth and its annoying
i have read some of these remedys as well as added my own and so far so good!

1. swish vinegar around on the sore tooth/teeth

2. smoke pot

3. listen to led zeppelin.

4. pain free

Best. idea. ever ; )

SKYPE-ing with our girl!!

2012-02-07T16:27:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I got a text from Aleah saying that the Romano's had gotten the Internet at their house! That meant a chance to Skype and get to see her face! It was wonderful getting to talk with her and hear more details of their time in the Dominican Republic. David is in L.A. This week at an Envision Conference so we missed getting to "see" him too. Each time we speak we get to hear stories of how things are for them. They even had pizza delivered for the Super Bowl on Sunday but they had to call back about 2 of the pizza's because the cheese was bad. That, and trying to find cookie cutters in Santiago is not an easy task!

So proud of Aleah and David and the way they are adapting thus far. Thank you on their behalf and mine for all those who have been praying! What a blessing to see our sweet girl's face yesterday! Thank you Jesus!

Saturday fun for under $10

2012-02-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

The sun was shining brightly as I drove to the bi-monthly book sale this morning. Nothing was going to dampen my day, even a horrible night's sleep brought on by my extremely congested head cold. The lure of a crowded room filled with book treasures just waiting to be found is hard to beat!

I found a bag full of books just waiting to be read and then I drove back home to ferry Preston over to Zak's place. The band is playing in the San Jose area tonight. Next Susie, my partner in crime, and I stopped by Melissa's house to drop off the amazing find we scored for Drew. Drew has been reading Nancy Drew Mystery stories and there was a huge box of them at the sale! Susie got 40 books for $8. Children's books at the sale are 5 for $1.

Our next stop was Costco for lunch (hot dog). Everyone was out doing pre-Super Bowl shopping so we took our gourmet meal to go and headed to the lovely benches outside Winco. "Nothing could be finer". Lunch was followed by a walk with Annie (my sister/dog) who brought along my dad and mom to drive her. The warmth and beauty of the day was a joy. All that walking made "us" (actually me) hungry for a sweet treat so we went to Weiner Schnitzel for some yummy ice cream. In my opinion they have the best soft serve in Redding! Following that was a stop at Michaels for some note cards and a last stop at Home Depot to see what sort of tile selection they had.

A sunny Saturday filled with fun for under $10

Bag of books:$5

Lunch @Costco: $1.62

Hot Fudge Sundae at WS: $2.89

Not having to get up at 7 a.m.: PRICELESS

Fowl weather in Redding,Ca.

2012-02-03T21:33:00.001-08:00

It was a beautiful springlike day in Redding today. After work I headed to lunch with Harper at Carnegie's. We had a delicious time! After lunch and before picking up Preston at school I had some free time so I just parked my car and decided to read for a bit. I chose a spot overlooking the Sacramento River where we used to feed the ducks when the kids were small. While I was reading this pigeon kept flying onto the hood and looking into the car. I finally grabbed my camera to capture a shot and then decided to try out my new camera's telephoto and macro capabilities.

It was a nice interlude of beautiful skies, gorgeous colors, God's creatures all combined on a sunny February afternoon.

What has 4 wheels, 5 seat belts and sometimes holds 13.....

2012-02-02T20:35:00.000-08:00

And the answer is: The Nishizaki's new car! Isn't it beautiful? We are so happy for them. They found it through some people that were with YWAM in the DR and were selling it. It has a little over 100,000 miles but looks in great condition! They said that the people that owned the car previously said that since there are no seatbelt laws in the DR and that they had up to 13 people in the vehicle at one time. Now that would be creative seating I'm sure. But with all the teams that are coming their way I would imagine that they will get to see if that holds true in the future as well!

So congratulations on the new ride David and Aleah! Can't wait to go for a ride around the block with them!

Life in the fast lane....

2012-02-01T19:39:00.001-08:00

About 10 days ago while driving down I-5 I heard a rock hit the windshield. Little did I know that this would lead to a cracked windshield that would keep growing larger each day. Because of this fact we decided to get our windshield replaced and called our insurance agent. (Actually the "we" would be Les who made the call. Thanks hon.)

1 day later Imagine Auto Glass showed up at my work to replace the w/s. The entire process took less than an hour to complete and after talking with the technician Cade I learned a lot about the entire process. Did you know that 40% of a car's structural integrity is based on the w/s? If it is not properly installed or if there is rusting, that hampers the integrity of the w/s. After removing the old windshield Cade showed me where rust could potentially show up as well as the primer process he uses to make sure you are protected against that happening.

I was very happy with the service of Imagine Auto Glass and the pride they take in their work. They were educated and took the time to let me learn more about the process too. I am also thankful for our insurance agent who referred us to a competent and safe local business to use for this repair. Thanks Wayne!

So, if you live life in the fast lane beware of flying rocks ; ).

*coming soon: a new vehicle for the Nish's!

Before the priming, after windshield was removed

After priming was completed

Lunch date at Wilda's Grill

2012-01-27T16:29:00.001-08:00

Kelly and I had lunch today at a new-ish place in Redding. The name is Wilda's and it was pretty amazing. It is a little tiny joint with like seats for 10 inside and a few seats outside. Thankfully it was a sunny day so we lunched al fresco. It is located on Placer St. near Court St.

"Talking about the signature hot dog at the new Wilda’s Grill on Placer Street just east of Court: An all-beef additive-free hot dog (made in Shasta Lake by Premiere Brand Meats), served on a fresh-baked roll with Wilda’s sweet mustard (a Redding-area tradition since 1980), sauerkraut, bacon crumbles and grilled onions. Perfection, in a word.". Redding Record Searchlight.

I had the above mentioned Wilda dog and it was yummy. Kelly had a Budha bowl which was a generous serving of cabbage, rice, beans, chicken or tofu, & special dressing. It looked delicious! Nothing on the menu more than $6 either. So, if you live in the North State go and eat at Wilda's Grill.

We also had a healthy serving of girl talk which totally hit the spot! Thanks Kelly!

What's up in Faires-land

2012-01-26T08:28:00.000-08:00

9 days since Aleah and David left California and headed to the DR. Here are some things that have been keeping us occupied at our house:

*Les got a chest cold. (feeling better this week)
*Preston has had a lot of music practices after school. The Starship Variety Hour is coming up next month and it is going to be amazing!! Feb. 23-25th in case you want tickets to see this amazing group!
*I have done some scrapbooking.
*We are losing our roommate. Nate got a new job in Sacramento.
*I have been playing a lot of Words with Friends.
*Prayer. Friends with cancer, Aleah and David as they begin their new work in the DR, another person in the hospital, a close family friend whose husband died, general direction and thanks. "Pray without ceasing"
*Cooked 3 new recipes from Pinterest.
*Ran some errands for the Nish's.
*I gave blood.
*Went to the movie's with Karen and Susie.
*Went to see Preston play drums at NCR celebration service
*Had lunch with Becky and Julie.
*Women's small group at our house.

That along with work, cooking,and regular chores have filled the days. Of course some reading and computering as well. What's up in your land??

Happy Birthday David!

2012-01-24T08:20:00.000-08:00

It is a big day for the Nishizaki's in the DR today. They are moving into their new apartment AND it is David's birthday! It will be a busy and eventful day, probably a birthday David will never forget! check out davidandaleah.com to keep up to date with their happenings...

"David, We are sending you our love and hugs from Redding! We thank God for the man of God that you are. Talented, smart and the perfect match for our beautiful girl. You love God and care about others, it is a great combination. Enjoy your birthday! I am anxious to see if you like the present from Papa and Gram ;). (pretty sure you are going to love it)"

p.s. Susan Nish, I am thinking of you today as well. I am sure you are remembering 27 years ago quite well! Thank you to you and Bob for your huge role in raising him to love God!

Wedding beauty from Tyler Faires Productions

2012-01-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

Kyle & Jennifer from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Tyler enjoyed shooting this wedding in Kyle, Texas very much. You can tell how amazing the couple is without even knowing them. I love Tyler's talent at letting you see the love and uniqueness of each persons special day.

Top 10 books of 2011 (Kim's Version)

2012-01-21T20:24:00.000-08:00

I read 101 books in 2011. That is a pretty big jump from last year which was in the 80's I believe. There were some great ones in the mix and others not so much. I chose my top 10 with a few honorable mentions thrown in for good measure.

My top 10 are in no particular order

1. Alice's Tulips by Sandra Dallas
* one of my favorite authors. Consistently great stories and I like her writing style.

Alice Bullock is a young newlywed whose husband, Charlie, has just joined the Union Army, leaving her on his Iowa farm with only his formidable mother for company. Alice writes lively letters to her sister filled with accounts of local quilting bees, the rigors of farm life, and the customs of small-town America. But no town is too small for intrigue and treachery, and when Alice finds herself accused of murder, she discovers her own hidden strengths. Rich in details of quilting, Civil War-era America, and the realities of a woman's life in the nineteenth century, Alice's Tulips is Sandra Dallas at her best.

2. The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
*excellent book about cultures and families

THE NAMESAKE follows the Ganguli family through its journey from Calcutta to Cambridge to the Boston suburbs. Ashima and Ashoke Ganguli arrive in America at the end of the 1960s, shortly after their arranged marriage in Calcutta, in order for Ashoke to finish his engineering degree at MIT. Ashoke is forward-thinking, ready to enter into American culture if not fully at least with an open mind. His young bride is far less malleable. Isolated, desperately missing her large family back in India, she will never be at peace with this new world.

Soon after they arrive in Cambridge, their first child is born, a boy. According to Indian custom, the child will be given two names: an official name, to be bestowed by the great-grandmother, and a pet name to be used only by family. But the letter from India with the child's official name never arrives, and so the baby's parents decide on a pet name to use for the time being. Ashoke chooses a name that has particular significance for him: on a train trip back in India several years earlier, he had been reading a short story collection by one of his most beloved Russian writers, Nikolai Gogol, when the train derailed in the middle of the night, killing almost all the sleeping passengers onboard. Ashoke had stayed awake to read his Gogol, and he believes the book saved his life. His child will be known, then, as Gogol.

3. The Wives of Henry Oades by Johanna Moran
*well written and thought provoking

When Henry Oades accepts an accountancy post in New Zealand, his wife, Margaret, and their children follow him to exotic Wellington. But while Henry is an adventurer, Margaret is not. Their new home is rougher and more rustic than they expected—and a single night of tragedy shatters the family when the native Maori stage an uprising, kidnapping Margaret and her children.

For months, Henry scours the surrounding wilderness, until all hope is lost and his wife and children are presumed dead. Grief-stricken, he books passage to California. There he marries Nancy Foreland, a young widow with a new baby, and it seems they’ve both found happiness in the midst of their mourning—until Henry’s first wife and children show up, alive and having finally escaped captivity.

Narrated primarily by the two wives, and based on a real-life legal case, The Wives of Henry Oades is the riveting story of what happens when Henry, Margaret, and Nancy face persecution for bigamy. Exploring the intricacies of marriage, the construction of family, the changing world of the late 1800s, and the strength of two remarkable women, Johanna Moran turns this unusual family’s story into an unforgettable page-turning drama.(less)

4. House Rules by Jodi Picoult
* I like this author's books about 50% of the time. This one was good.

When your son can't look you in the eye...does that mean he's guilty?
Jacob Hunt is a teen with Asperger's syndrome. He's hopeless at reading social cues or expressing himself well to others, though he is brilliant in many ways. But he has a special focus on one subject - forensic analysis. A police scanner in his room clues him in to crime scenes, and he's always showing up and telling the cops what to do. And he's usually right.
But when Jacob's small hometown is rocked by a terrible murder, law enforcement comes to him. Jacob's behaviors are hallmark Asperger's, but they look a lot like guilt to the local police. Suddenly the Hunt family, who only want to fit in, are directly in the spotlight. For Jacob's mother, Emma, it's a brutal reminder of the intolerance and misunderstanding that always threaten her family. For his brother, Theo, it's another indication why nothing is normal because of Jacob.
And over this small family, the soul-searing question looms: Did Jacob commit murder?(less)

5. The Lost Mother by Mary Morris McGarry
*felt very authentic as to the time period and circumstances. Good story.

Since the publication of her astonishing debut Vanished, Mary McGarry Morris has been compared with John Steinbeck and Carson McCullers and widely praised as one of our finest American writers (The Miami Herald). Now Morris has achieved new heights with her riveting chronicle of the Talcotts, a family in rural Vermont during the Great Depression.
Abandoned by his beautiful wife, Henry and their two young children spend a summer in a tent on the edge of Black Pond. As he searches for work, Henry often must leave the children alone. When a prosperous neighbor intervenes, the consequences may cost the Talcotts everything. Powerfully imagined and intensely felt, The Lost Mother is a haunting masterpiece and McGarry Morriss strongest novel to date.

6. Shanghai Girls by Lisa See
* I promised myself I would never read another book by this author but ultimately I am glad I did. This one was great!

In 1937, Shanghai is the Paris of Asia, a city of great wealth and glamour, the home of millionaires and beggars, gangsters and gamblers, patriots and revolutionaries, artists and warlords. Thanks to the financial security and material comforts provided by their father’s prosperous rickshaw business, twenty-one-year-old Pearl Chin and her younger sister, May, are having the time of their lives. Though both sisters wave off authority and tradition, they couldn’t be more different: Pearl is a Dragon sign, strong and stubborn, while May is a true Sheep, adorable and placid. Both are beautiful, modern, and carefree . . . until the day their father tells them that he has gambled away their wealth and that in order to repay his debts he must sell the girls as wives to suitors who have traveled from California to find Chinese brides.

As Japanese bombs fall on their beloved city, Pearl and May set out on the journey of a lifetime, one that will take them through the Chinese countryside, in and out of the clutch of brutal soldiers, and across the Pacific to the shores of America. In Los Angeles they begin a fresh chapter, trying to find love with the strangers they have married, brushing against the seduction of Hollywood, and striving to embrace American life even as they fight against discrimination, brave Communist witch hunts, and find themselves hemmed in by Chinatown’s old ways and rules.

At its heart, Shanghai Girls is a story of sisters: Pearl and May are inseparable best friends who share hopes, dreams, and a deep connection, but like sisters everywhere they also harbor petty jealousies and rivalries. They love each other, but each knows exactly where to drive the knife to hurt the other the most. Along the way they face terrible sacrifices, make impossible choices, and confront a devastating, life-changing secret, but through it all the two heroines of this astounding new novel hold fast to who they are–Shanghai girls.(less)

7. The Autobiography of Mrs Tom Thumb by Melanie Benjamin
*the story is a fictionalization account a the real Mrs. Tom Thumb. Interesting and entertaining.

She was only two-foot eight-inches tall, but her legend reaches out to us more than a century later. As a child, Mercy Lavinia “Vinnie” Bump was encouraged to live a life hidden away from the public. Instead, she reached out to the immortal impresario P. T. Barnum, married the tiny superstar General Tom Thumb in the wedding of the century, and transformed into the world’s most unexpected celebrity.

Here, in Vinnie’s singular and spirited voice, is her amazing adventure—from a showboat “freak” revue where she endured jeering mobs to her fateful meeting with the two men who would change her life: P. T. Barnum and Charles Stratton, AKA Tom Thumb. Their wedding would captivate the nation, preempt coverage of the Civil War, and usher them into the White House and the company of presidents and queens. But Vinnie’s fame would also endanger the person she prized most: her similarly-sized sister, Minnie, a gentle soul unable to escape the glare of Vinnie’s spotlight.

A barnstorming novel of the Gilded Age, and of a woman’s public triumphs and personal tragedies, The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb is the irresistible epic of a heroine who conquered the country with a heart as big as her dreams—and whose story will surely win over yours.(less)

8. Cutting for Stone Abraham Verghese
* Best seller for several years. Well worth reading!

Marion and Shiva Stone are twin brothers born of a secret union between a beautiful Indian nun and a brash British surgeon at a mission hospital in Addis Ababa. Orphaned by their mother’s death in childbirth and their father’s disappearance, bound together by a preternatural connection and a shared fascination with medicine, the twins come of age as Ethiopia hovers on the brink of revolution. Yet it will be love, not politics—their passion for the same woman—that will tear them apart and force Marion, fresh out of medical school, to flee his homeland. He makes his way to America, finding refuge in his work as an intern at an underfunded, overcrowded New York City hospital. When the past catches up to him—nearly destroying him—Marion must entrust his life to the two men he thought he trusted least in the world: the surgeon father who abandoned him and the brother who betrayed him.

An unforgettable journey into one man’s remarkable life, and an epic story about the power, intimacy, and curious beauty of the work of healing others.(less)

9. Choosing to SEE by Mary Beth Chapman
* Excellent book. Inspirational and heart wrenching

Mary Beth Chapman is the wife of Grammy and Dove Award winning recording artist Steven Curtis Chapman. Together they began Show Hope, a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for the world's most vulnerable children by providing financial assistance to families wishing to adopt, as well as increasing awareness of the orphan crisis and funneling resources to orphans domestically and internationally. Mary Beth serves as president of Show Hope and is a speaker for Women of Faith 2010 with her husband. She is also coauthor with Steven of the Shaoey and Dot series of children's picture books. Mary Beth and Steven have six children: Emily, Caleb, Will Franklin, and adopted daughters Shaohannah Hope, Stevey Joy, and Maria Sue, who is now with Jesus. The Chapmans live in Tennessee.

10. Brava Valentine by Adriana Trigiani.
* A follow up to Very Valentine by one of my favorite authors!

In this sumptuous follow-up, a once-in-a-lifetime business opportunity takes Valentine from the winding streets of Greenwich Village to the sun-kissed cobblestones of Buenos Aires, where she finds a long-buried secret hidden deep within a family scandal. Once unearthed, the truth rocks the Roncallis, while Valentine is torn between a past love that nurtured her, and a new one that promises to sustain her.

HONORABLE MENTIONS
*The Sweet By and By. Todd Johnson
*The Castaways. Elin Hildebrand
*Veil of Roses. Laura Fitzgerald
*The Crying Tree. Rakha Naseem

5 minute Friday

2012-01-20T08:27:00.000-08:00

Vivid

Bright blue skies dotted with white clouds, green grassy fields, the swirls on a towering vanilla soft serve ice cream atop that lovely pale cone, the clear almost transluscent water off the sandy shore of a tropical island.

The world outside my window today holds none of those things. It is cold, dreary and rainy. My spirit rejoices in the vivid days filled with color, sunshine and promise. But today I will choose to live my life as if the grey drizzle and chill is not there at all. I will place my outlook on the vividness of God's grace in my life, even if I don't feel it. I will press on and thank Him for every good and perfect gift because I know that beautiful things are on the horizon.

The journey begins

2012-01-18T14:42:00.000-08:00

Our children left on Monday afternoon at 12:23 p.m. They are embarking on an incredible journey to the Dominican Republic where a new lifestyle is waiting. They will encounter a new language, new culture, and new surroundings. They know that this is where God has called them and we are behind them 100%.

I am not going to lie and tell you that tears have not been shed. It is a loss for we as family and friends. But I can also tell you that with the sadness there has been an overwhelming sense of peace in my heart. I KNOW that the DR is where God wants David and Aleah, I KNOW that He has equipped them to do what they are called for, and most importantly I KNOW that God has them in His hand and will watch over them. Comforting truths to those who are grieving the miles separating us from those we love.

From the moment I woke up on Tuesday morning until I went to bed I had many evidences of people caring about how I was handling the departure. Texts, phone calls, dinner and a movie with Karen and Susie, treats and a evening visit from Peg. So many that care about ME through the transition time. Even with the overwhelming peace I felt, i also was struggling with insecurities and doubt. "Was I ever going to be needed by my daughter again" and "Was the love we shared lost now across the miles that separate us?". As the doubts rocked my world I suddenly saw them for what they were, lies Satan wanted me to believe. The deceiver didn't like the peace I felt so he attacked me at my most vulnerable point. That being the value I place on being a mom. The good news is that I saw that ploy and did my best not to dwell on it. SO thankful for the peace of placing our children in God's hand. I am working on the issues of self doubt but know that I must lean on God for my security and position as His child first and foremost.

I will tell you the text I received this morning was priceless. "We are here safe and sound, but very tired."
The journey begins....for all of us.

Commissioning Service for David and Aleah

2012-01-16T15:45:00.000-08:00

Commissioning David and Aleah Nishizaki from Neighborhood Church of Redding on Vimeo.

Video love from TFP

2012-01-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

Craig & PJ from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

The Last "Dinner"

2012-01-10T18:30:00.001-08:00

My kid's think I am going nuts, but they still complied.

Takin it to the Streets

2012-01-07T22:16:00.001-08:00

Last Friday night's DATE NIGHT was delicious and eventful. We started out the evening with a yummy dinner at Fat Daddy barbecue. I highly recommend the onion rings (which Susie had ; )

After dinner we went to see Courageous. It was a good movie with excellent values and a worthy message. It spoke to the real needs for men to be Godly examples to their families. Usually "Christian" movies are poorly made and cheesy. Even though this film did have some of those characteristics, it did have some great comedy lines and exciting scenes. I was pleased to see the entire theater filled as well.

About 30 minutes into the movie the film stopped abruptly and the lights went out for a second. As I was thinking " what the heck", a theater employee came into the theater and said there was a fire alarm and we I would all need to exit the building. We "courageously" left the theater in an orderly fashion and went to wait outside. Within 15 min we got the all clear sign and headed back inside to finish watching the movie. Overall I was impressed by the calm and efficient staff and fellow film goers. Additionally, we started 2012 Date Night's out on an exciting note!

Fairezaki Fun in Disneyland

2012-01-05T17:44:00.001-08:00

11 people in a van for around 10 hours to reach "the Happiest Place on Earth" is not a great advertisement of how you would choose to spend the first day of 2012, but since you know us we count the cost to be worthy.

2 days in Disneyland with our family, my parents, our nephew Isaac, Bob and Susan Nishizaki, Kelly Reck, and Kent and Jo Lines was very fun! We also met up with Wes, Harper and Lucy Jensen while there. Unfortunately, Tyler was not able to make the trip because he was finishing up his documentary for the Sundial Film Festival in March. We missed him very much.

As is our normal plan we spent 2 days in Disneyland. The first day Jan 2nd was fairly light crowds but the 2nd day it was almost the busiest we have seen in several years. We enjoyed particularly the new and improved Star Tours attraction, the new Ariel ride in Calif. Adventure and Tom Sawyers Island. The tried and true favorites were still just that, perennial favorites as was our 2nd chance to see "World of Color."

Preston's girlfriend Megan was there on our 2nd day which he enjoyed and in our ever popular vacation game Susan Nish saw the person she knew "first" and won the kitty.

Here are a few of my favorite shots from our time of magical memories!

* I am using a new blogger app for my I-pad and it arranges the pictures very randomly. But it is a lot of time to change that so here you go in all it's randomness.

Counting Blessings

2011-12-31T18:24:00.001-08:00

When I'm worried
And I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
I faal asleep, counting my blessings

When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep, counting my blessings

I think about a nursery
And I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them
As they slumber in their beds

So, if You're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings.

By Cole Porter

In case you are too young to have heard this song by Cole Porter it is a beautiful tune and words with a great message. It was also in the movie "White Christmas" with Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney.

It seemed a fitting way to close out 2011.

Photog fun

2011-12-29T13:09:00.000-08:00

3 boys in masks.

Picture courtesy of David

Loved the creativity and how even with the exact same mask on,

it still "looks like them.".

Crazy, huh?

Trains on Tuesday

2011-12-27T22:54:00.001-08:00

One of my Creative Memories customers MaryAnne and her husband have an antique train set that they set up during the Christmas season. The train was originally Dale's fathers and one of the steam engines is from the 1940's. Both Dale and MaryAnne have spent many hours on the decor of their train town. They made a Mt. Shasta in the distance as well as places depicting Redding, Shasta Lake and some scenic spots.
A good reason to go and visit the train today was Riley, Drew and Collin. They enjoyed seeing all 3 trains running and getting to make the whistle blow. Collin was especially fascinated with the model water tower and the little miniature man that was positioned near it. He kept having the little toy climb the little ladder up to the top of the water tower and then fall off the roof of the tower head first! It was pretty comical. Drew was intrigued by the 2 dogs that lived at the house and enjoyed playing with them.
It was a fun afternoon outing to see some really great trains and spend some time with some very special kids.

A few Christmas Day photographs....

2011-12-26T18:53:00.000-08:00

Can you spot 3 of my kids in this pic? Taking a little rest after presents and before lunch....

With my new CAMERA,

Pretty thrilled that I was the recipient of a photo taking device from my hubby for Christmas. Obviously he knows that the way to this girls heart is through capturing memories. It is a very nice Nikon CoolPix, and it also comes with some photo classes which will be fun to redeem.

We spent yesterday starting with a breakfast here at our house with the whole fam plus Bob and Susan Nish. Aleah made pumpkin cinnamon rolls (DELISH) and i did an egg dish. We opened gifts and then hung out until going to my parents house for a delicious lunch and some Bunco. After everyone left to their respective homes and my dad decided to watch a football game, my mom and I took the opportunity to go see "We Bought a Zoo". It was a good movie and we enjoyed the time together very much!!

All in all a very relaxed and wonderful day with the ones I love! So glad B&S came to share the day with us as well! Made the events even more special :-)

Some wedding fun to brighten your holidays

2011-12-21T16:14:00.000-08:00

Tyler has done it again! He has been working non stop lately on some big events at the Cascade Theatre, a mini documentary, and of course weddings.

Kevin & Lindsay from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Gentle reminders

2011-12-19T08:26:00.000-08:00

One of Aleah's best friends and bridesmaid Carsen is a blogger. We have known Carsen since she was in high school and have loved having her in our lives. Carsen was married last Spring and within a few weeks had to tell her husband goodbye as he flew off to serve our Country. I have been following Carsen's blog during these past months and have been blown away by her honesty and the way she shares her heart.

With Carsen's permission here is an excerpt from her blog yesterday:

" A teenage virgin gave birth to a baby that would one day die to save our souls. That is no simple thing, but his love is. I'm not interested in religion or arguing over whether to say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays. All that is just noise drowning out what we need to hear. He appeared and the soul felt its worth. I hope your soul feels its worth today. My love is far away and I miss him so. The inner most parts of my soul know something is missing. Yet, it knows its worth. Laws and religion and political noise fill us with rules and regulations and arguments about things that don't matter. But his law is love and his gospel is peace. I wish you glowing hearts, a thrill of hope, and for your weary soul to rejoice this season."

Last week was an emotional one for me. My best friend at work found out she has lung cancer. The knee surgery she was anticipating this week has been postponed because a new life threatening ordeal is staring her in the face. I felt great joy when I drove to Sacramento to pick up Aleah and David from the airport upon their return from Colorado. Giving them hugs and hearing some of what they had learned was great and yet just steps away was the realization that in less than a month they are flying away to a new life. I KNOW in my spirit that this is the path God is leading them on but in my flesh it is so painful. I want to be strong for them but I can't stop the tears. Then I read Carsen's poignant post and it hit me like a ton of bricks! Yes, my soul DOES feel it's worth and my weary soul rejoices. A gentle reminder that the baby who came is indeed the same God who brings love,peace and comfort.

Carsen's blog: http://lovecamoandotherstuff.blogspot.com

These made me laugh SO hard

2011-12-15T11:45:00.001-08:00

Ryan Gosling: Very Handsome
These posts on Pinterest: Hilarious!

I hope you enjoy them as much as I have....

Some Saturday Fun

2011-12-14T11:29:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday was an adventurous day. Susie and I went on a road trip to celebrate my birthday in Nov. I didn't know the destinations but that made it even more fun...

First stop:
Anderson Library Book Sale
Not the traditional barn burner that Shasta County Library host but of course we didn't leave without buying some books. A great way to start the day!

Next:

We went to this very interesting and fun Winter Press in Corning. There was amazing fresh pressed olive oils and balsamic vinegars and other fun things. We were happy to see the crowded venue for the local businesses.

And then:
On to Red Bluff where we visited Gaumer's Jewelry and Gems Store. What an interesting shop. We browsed and they even cleaned our rings for us! Bonus :)

Also in Red Bluff:
The House of Design. We looked at all the gorgeous Christmas decor and felt like we were in beautiful Holiday overload!

On to Redding:
Ran a few errands like Costco, Michaels and the Dollar Store. They were fun errands though. Nothing too pressing...

At 5 p.m.:
We headed over to Turtle Bay for their Member Event that was a Christmas Themed evening. We saw some cool animals, looked in their great gift store, walked through the Avenue of Lights ;)and looked at a few exhibits. We didn't wait to visit Santa but instead....

Dinner at CR Gibbs:
ended our fun day with a dinner at the above mentioned restaurant. It was a totally fun day. Both Susie and I have decided that instead of gifts from now on spending time doing things together is the best way to go. We even briefly discussed that on our Friday Night Date Nights with the guys we might try eating from all locally owned restaurants next year. Might be a fun thing.

So, I think this is the conclusion to my birthday festivities. Drawing it out for 2 full weeks and 1 week beforehand is pretty much a record for me. Now we can safely say full steam ahead for Christmas.

2011 Team Faires Review

2011-12-09T09:46:00.000-08:00

The year is drawing to a close and with it the annual Christmas letter. If you are reading this right now you may have gotten a Christmas postcard from us and decided to see a more detailed report of the events of 2011 for us.

We began the year with several trips travelling to Spokane, Wa. where Les' dad was in serious condition after a severe car accident in Dec. 2010. Bill was moved to a skilled nursing facility on his birthday, Jan 8th and passed away on Jan.11, 2011. We were blessed to go back for the funeral which all of Les' siblings attended and got things squared away at Les' parents mobile home for sale later. Les' mom, Ruth is in a care home that was located right next door to their home in Othello, Wa. We were also thankful to have Aleah and David drive up to the funeral with us as well as being able to make the drive several times in very snowy weather and never needing to chain up! PTL!

In last years letter I mentioned that my dad had been in and out of the hospital with an acute Pancreatitus problem. He ended up having a feeding tube installed and was unable to eat any food by mouth until March 2011. It was a long and frustrating climb out of that but he and my mom perservered with grace and stamina. After he had his feeding tube removed he was actually doing well enough to take a trip he had planned over a year before with his siblings riding burro's down into the Grand Canyon! What a wonderful trip they had and how thankful we are for Dad's recovery. He is doing well now and up to riding his normal 100+ miles of riding his bike each week.

Our children continue to amaze us with their varied passions and seeing the path God is leading them on. Tyler has had an amazing year of seeing his film making business flourish! How we praise God for this. During the year he filmed 27 weddings as well as other projects like some commercials, helping with a motorcycle video, a music video and assorted films. Tyler also bought a new house in May which was HUGE! He now is the proud owner of a 3 bedroom home in Redding. He has a couple of roommates and has been making improvements here and there since moving in. The house is pretty close in proximity to our home and we enjoy having him in the area. Tyler has done a lot of travelling in 2011 also, both work related and just for fun! He is enjoying this time of his life.

Aleah and David have spent the year working their respective jobs at Shasta Lake School (Aleah as an interpreter) and Neighborhood Church (David as Graphic Arts/Small Group Co-ordinator). They celebrated their first anniversary in July . Near the beginning of this past year Aleah and David began discussing a new Missionary opportunity for them to be involved in with the Rick Romano family who had been serving in Ensenada, Mexico. After prayer and stepping out in faith David and Aleah will be leaving for Santiago, Dominican Republic on Jan. 17, 2012. They will be opening a new short term mission station there through Envision, a branch of the Christian and Missionary Alliance. The Romano family will be moving at the same time as well so they will be ministering together. God has really opened doors that confirm that this is the direction He is calling them to. Right now they are in Colorado Springs, Co. on a 3 week training for international workers. It has been very beneficial and thorough. Everyone has been asking how I feel about this move, and I must say that even though I know we will miss our children VERY much it is also my hearts desire that they be where God wants them to be. I guess a trip to the D.R. will be in order during the summer too ;)

Preston is continuing with his love for music and following that passion to the fullest! As a member of several bands both with school and a personal group, he is drumming many hours a day. As a member of Enterprise Starship, a show band/choir, their group got 3rd place in a regional competition and then continued on to the National Show Choir finals in Indianapolis, Indiana! My mom and I went on this trip with the group and I was so impressed with their behavior and incredible talent and fun attitudes. Preston is back in Starship this school year as well and also in Jazz Band I and the Percussion Ensemble. Preston's true love is his band Long Live the King which is more his style of music. There are 5 members in the band and they recently released an EP (like a short CD, with 4 songs) and have been signed to a label. They are hoping to build up their shows by touring this summer in the Pacific Northwest. Preston is also excited for one more year until graduation!

Les and I have been busy as always with work and church ministry opportunities. Les made a big purchase this spring with this new Kawasaki motorcycle. He took a road trip with his biking buddy Dan to Oregon where they put many miles on their bikes and made trips all over the area. We both enjoyed a trip to Pacific City, Oregon to spend a few days with Les' siblings over the summer. We also went to see a play in Portland, Or. with a group from Corban. Mary Poppins was the play and it was a lot of fun to be there. Then just a few weeks ago we took another short trip to Sedona, Az. over my Thanksgiving break from school. We went with Tyler and loved seeing the gorgeous scenery of the red rocks and a day trip to the Grand Canyon. It was a wonderful time of relaxing and spending time together. I have had a few medical procedures this year including a 2nd recurrance of some skin cancer on my scalp. The last surgery was 11 years ago and this time I went to Sacramento for a MOHS procedure to remove the cancer and then the next day reconstructive plastic surgery in Redding. 50 stitches and a fairly invasive surgery but today you can hardly tell that just a few months ago my head looked pretty gnarly. Everything is clear at the moment and we are praying it will stay that way. Thankful to God for His healing power! The only other news is that we now have another person living at our house. Nate has been living with us since February as our roomNate (as Les fondly calls him) I am in a world full of testosterone, but Nate likes to read as much as I do which I think is pretty cool.

As I always reflect on the year gone by it is an excellent reminder of how much God loves us. Even when there are rough days the presence of our Creator and his GREAT love envelops and encourages us. Also, the many family and friends that have walked this journey with us has been a blessing. Our love and thankfulness for these gifts is heartfelt and immense. Wishing each one who reads these words a Merry Christmas filled with the love of Jesus in your hearts!

Love always,

Kim :-)

where to keep up on our lives during the year:

www.kimfaires.blogspot.com (Kim's blog)

www.tylerfaires.com (Tyler's work website, go watch some of his great work here)

www.davidandaleah.com (David and Aleah's new website and blog where you can keep up with their new ministry and life in the D.R.)

Color, on Five Minute Friday

2011-12-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

COLOR
I love color. You will know that if you have been to my house. I actually feel cozy when I have color all around me. When this writing prompt was given my mind instantly went to the Sunday School song I learned as a child, "Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world."

God has put color into our world even by the shades of our skin. Wouldn't it have been a boring one dimensional blase' earth if we all looked the same? And who better than our loving Creator to form us with colorful exteriors to match the unique inner portrait of who we all are.

Couldn't close without one of my favorite songs on this very subject by DC Talk:

Pardon me, your epidermis is showing

I couldn't help but note your shade of melanin

I tip my hat to the colorful arrangement

Cause I see (the) beauty in the tones of our skin

We gotta come together, and thank the maker of us all

We're colored people, and we live in a tainted place

We're colored people, and they call us the human race

We've got a history of mistakes

And we are colored people who depend on a Holy Grace

A piece of canvas is only the beginning

It takes on character with every loving stroke

This thing of beauty is the passion of an artist's heart

By God's design, we are a skin kaleidoscope

We gotta come together, aren't we all human after all?

Ignorance has wronged some races And vengeance is the Lord's

If we aspire to share this space Repentance is the cure

Well, just a day in the shoes of a color blind man

Should make it easy for you to see

That these diverse tones do more than cover our bones

As a part of our anatomy

Who's your daughter?

2011-12-08T20:11:00.001-08:00

I think I win an award for being the first person to ever hack your blog...good thing you use the same password for everything :) Since you don't have your camera I thought I would post a picture for you. Surprise!!! Thanks for being a super supportive Mom, you love us well. I am excited to see you very soon.

I love you to the moon and back,

Aleah

TFP project!

2011-12-06T10:43:00.001-08:00

Well, the camera I lost on our Sedona trip has not shown up. : ( I am very sad. This makes me not that excited about blogging recently. So instead of blogging about my Christmas tree and how lovely it looks in all it's finery, you are now getting a recent wedding video that Tyler did!

Enjoy!

Justin & Brianne from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

5 minute Friday

2011-12-02T10:50:00.000-08:00

TIRED

I smile to myself when I listen to young mom's say how tired they are. I am not doubting that they are physically exhausted by the constant demands of young children and what sleep deprivation can do to you mind and body. Sometimes I wish I could just stop them and say "You, think you are tired now...."

As the mom of 2 grown up children and 1 teenager I can tell you from years of experience that physical exhaustion is nothing compared to the mental and emotional fatigue that comes with the teen years. The days of charting the waters of "on the brink of not being a kid anymore" and all that goes along with it. The constant pull of trying to bestow unconditional love and acceptance when it is not the thing that your flesh wants to do. Consistently parenting and setting reasonable expectations while coaching your children from the sidelines. Seeing them make mistakes and loving them in the midst of that process. The constant state of mind that asks if you are doing it right or if another way of handling the situations would be better. That coupled with the re-telling of the "someday you are going to have to deal with all sorts of people in your life" speech, can be exhausting.

So the word tired can mean many different things to whatever stage of life you find yourself in. A mom of young children, teens, empty nesters, or caregiving to parents as they age. I try to remember to give it all to God because I know that He has my best and my children's best in His very capable hands.

Lately my mantra has been this:

Matthew 6:34
The Message (MSG)
34"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.

Birthday Blessings

2011-11-30T10:38:00.000-08:00

Today I turn 49 years old.

It is not a tragedy though with the blessings of well wishes from family and friends! After my "Just Dance" party on the 19th (which was amazing) I also got to have a birthday lunch with our family on Sunday afternoon before Aleah and David left for their conference in Colorado Springs.

Then, this week my mom has brought a present to my work every day for me! She is spoiling me! And cards from family all week arriving in the mail have added to my joy! I always feel a bit uncomfortable with all the extra attention during my birthday week but I cannot tell a lie, it really does make me feel good inside.

So, for all the text's, facebook messages, cards, gifts and hugs I feel blessed right down to the tips of my toes. It is hard for me to express in words how much those tokens of love speak to my heart!

*ending out the celebrating tonight with Les and Susie who celebrate their anniversary on the 30th as well! We are going to dinner at Dry Creek Station :)

**the school also gives me a check every year on my birthday too....(isn't that nice of them ;) Even though it is payday I feel extra special.

The Thanksgiving Week Trip

2011-11-28T09:50:00.001-08:00

Back in September I started thinking about taking a trip during my Thanksgiving break from school. While in the thought process I saw a Groupon deal for Sedona, Az. I didn't know much about Sedona, but the deal for 3 nights at a nice resort sounded appealing and I also expected that Arizona would be warm so we decided to go for the deal! Tyler decided to come along with us which was very great too. It isn't often that we get the chance to have a trip with our kids (even grown) one on one.

So, after my dance party on Sat. the 26th we left Redding's very rainy landscape at 2:30 a.m. to drive and catch our flight to Phoenix in Sacramento. Flight went well and we arrived early on Sunday morning. Got the rental car which had plenty of head room for our tall son (yay!) and headed to Sedona. Upon our arrival about 2 hours later we were instantly in amazement of the beauty and grandeur of the beautiful rock formations that filled the valley. Simply breathtaking.

Over the next few days we did plenty of sightseeing, eating and relaxing. Included in our groupon was a couples massage so that was quite nice for Les and I. (Les' first massage) We also drove to the Grand Canyon one day which was gorgeous. We hiked a bit (staying longer than the average of 38 minutes by most tourists) and also saw the Watchtower on the East end of the Canyon. Back in Sedona one of the highlights was the Pink Jeep Tour which took us way up into the rocks. Our tour driver also told us about the numerous movies filmed in Sedona. One spot was the parking lot from Family Vacation when they discover grandma has expired in the backseat. We even saw the place where John Wayne had etched "The Duke" into the side of the canyon . Walt Disney also had a home in Sedona and the ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is patterned after Sedona. After the guide said that it made perfect sense to us as we thought about the ride and how it really does look like the landscapes in the area. We flew back home on Wed and had a rainy drive back to Redding.

It was a lot of fun to see some new landscape in the beautiful United States and to spend time with 2 of my guys. The only bad news is that I think I left my camera in the rental car and have yet to hear back from them. Les took quite a few pics but I haven't had time to see them yet. So, I hope to post some more pics from the trip soon. And praying I can get my camera back as well. My planking at the Grand Canyon picture was on it. : (

Just Dance Birthday Party!

2011-11-21T09:14:00.000-08:00

Saturday was the day of my spectacular Just Dance birthday celebration!

A lot of my friends came to share in the fun! Aleah put on the whole thing and had delicious snacks, Kelly made a delicious punch and we all had fun dancing, laughing, sharing and eating. My mom came even after driving from L.A. all day. What a trooper!

I am super blessed with so many friends. I love them all for their uniqueness and their place in my heart. A few of you will be reading this from a far and let me tell you, we missed you! What a fun celebration, thank you Aleah for making it perfect!

Five Minute Friday

2011-11-18T10:46:00.000-08:00

GROW

My thumb is not green. Never has been and probably never will be. So growing things in the traditional sense is not my forte'.

I do have a knack of cultivating and growing other things though. I love the process of relationship farming and take a lot of joy in that. Tending the people in my life, husband, children, family and friends are things I enjoy putting time and effort into. Just like a real garden there is all sorts of steps that go into that process. Planting the seeds, watering, pulling weeds, waiting at times and then a beautiful harvest of beauty.

My growing accomplishments cannot be seen by the naked eye like a traditional garden, but it is just as beautiful to me as any I have ever seen!

A Christmas Commercial from TFP

2011-11-17T09:09:00.000-08:00

A Cascade Christmas 30[s] from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Tyler did an an amazing job shooting and editing this commercial on a very short time frame.

I can hardly wait to go and see "A Cascade Christmas" myself. Think I will hop on over to http://www.cascadetheatre.org/ to buy our tickets! We went last year for the first time and it was fabulous!

2011-11-13T20:48:00.000-08:00

Pinterest is like crack for the Internet. One hit and you can't help but go back for more and more...

What is Pinterest, you say? It is an on-line site that you can "pin" things onto boards that interest you. The things are from all over the Internet like recipes, crafts, photos, quotes, fashion etc. it is very hard to explain but it is very addictive. I have especially been enjoying the different recipes. So far I have made about 4 different, fun and delicious recipes. Tonight I made homemade Butterfinger candy. It only took 3 ingredients and was a fun and tasty experiment!

One unusual thing about Pinterest is that you need an invitation to begin on it. I would be happy to invite anyone that is interested :). Les has been happy with all the new things I have been cooking. 4 more things on themenufor next week. I wonder if that is a good enough rationalization for all the time I am spending on it....

Follow the journey

2011-11-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

Most of you who read my blog know that our daughter and son in law are leaving in January for the Dominican Republic (DR). They are going with Envision Culture, a division on the Christian and Missionary Alliance. David and Aleah will be living in Santiago, DR which is the 2nd largest city in the country. They will be starting a base for short term missions trips to help local churches with projects in their country. The Romano family is also going at the same time with D&A to begin this ministry. The Romano's had developed a similar ministry in Ensenada for the past 7 years. We are really happy that D&A will be going with an experienced family and how connected they feel with the Romano's.

This past week we have held 2 information nights to share the news of this move with friends and family. David and Aleah are raising support as well as asking people to pray for them during the transition of leaving their home and going to start a new life in the DR. They will be flying to the DR on Jan. 17th and beginning language school right away, finding somewhere to live, buying a vehicle and preparing for teams to come. The main language is Spanish. David knows Creole and Aleah knows sign language so this will be new to them both. There are already 12 teams scheduled to come in the summer of 2012 so they will hit the ground running!

If you would like to learn more about this new ministry for David and Aleah please visit their website at: davidandaleah.com

Five Minute Friday...Remember

2011-11-04T23:14:00.000-07:00

Remember

The first time you held my hand felt like we were meant to be within that grasp of intertwined fingers forever. Those days of dating and the anticipation of how excited I was to spend more time getting to know you. The night I got back to my dorm room to be greeted by a dozen roses and how all the other girls were jealous of my thoughtful boyfriend. All the times I left little notes for you while you were working security on campus and how much thought I put into them being creative and unusual. Actually, I might have put more work into those than actual homework.

I remember being unsure if I could trust you with "the real me", would that be enough for happiness? Those days of walking from friendship, to dating, then onto engagement and marriage were filled with wonder and excitement. Even in the throes of being in love I remember wanting to be sure we could make it through the long haul. And now 26 years, 3 children, numerous dogs, cats, a turtle and parakeet what I remember most is how dedicated you have been to my happiness. And how much i love holding your hand and remembering how it feels just as great as that first day.

Enterprise High School Choir Show - News Story - KRCR Redding

2011-11-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Preston was on the local news last night!

It would be very cool if they won the best show choir in America too! You can vote for them on the link from the article!

click on this link to see the interview they did on the news and you can also vote...

Enterprise High School Choir Show - News Story - KRCR Redding

Living with a Teenager....

2011-11-02T08:43:00.001-07:00

That is if I can remember which child's name to call him.

Reading Log....Oct. 2011

2011-10-31T11:12:00.000-07:00

The Sweet By and By

by Todd Johnson
A-

I have been waiting for this book for awhile on Paperbackswap.com. It is the story about 2 ladies living in a rest home and a few of the people in their lives. A caring nurse and a woman who comes to do hair at the facility. I enjoyed this book very much. It really made you think about the growing old process and the importance of treating each season with great respect and love.

Sweet Water Creek

by Anne River Siddons

C-

Nope, couldn't get into it or follow it. A young girl living with her father and brothers who is raising hunting dogs. A beautifuly young college girl comes to live with them also to learn about dog training. Her fractured life becomes the focus of all the characters lives.

Plain Language

by Barbara Wright

B-
A quaker woman marries late in life to a rancher who she has only corresponded with. It is a story of their beginning year and the difficulties they face. It was a very interesting and good book. I thought the characters were well developed and you could follow the people's journey quite well.

The American Heiress

by Daisy Goodwin
C
A young spoiled girl at the turn of the century finds her love life lacking and decides to marry a titled man in England and then has to overcome the stereotypes and cultural differences of being a new wife in a foreign land. It was a little too Harlequin-esque for my taste. Pretty predictable.

Look Again

by Lisa Scottoline

C

Good premise but not that great of a book. A woman looks on the back of a milk carton and discovers what she thinks is her adopted sons picture. She decides to hunt down the facts before she goes to the police with her information. Parts of it were good, just not a favorite overall.

Veil of Roses

by Laura Fitzgerald
B

A young middle eastern girl is given a plane ticket by her parents to go and visit her sister in the U.S. They are hoping that she will find a suitable husband so she can stay. It is a very good story of how amazingly different it is from going to a culture that is so repressed to our American freedoms. I thought the author did a great job of showing how it might realistically feel to be that girl. There are some twists and turns to the story as well.

The Measure of a Lady
by Deeanne Gist
D+

Even despite the good setting and premise for this book I was not impressed. 3 siblings arrive by boat in San Franscisco in the early 1900's. Parents are dead so they are on their own in a very rough town. Of course it turns into a love story but it was just so contrived. All the reviews praised the book highly but I was far from impressed.

The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins
B+

So many had recommended this book I decided to give it a try. Being sci- fi made me initially wary but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. The story is set in the future where each year 2 names are drawn from each district and then the 24 people have to battle to be the last one alive. It was believable and had a story that made you want to keep reading. This is the first book in a trilogy.

The Power of One

by Bryce Courtenay

A white boy living in South Africa right when apartheid is starting. At the age of 6 he meets a man on a train who puts hope in his heart to be a world class boxer. This dream keeps hope alive through all sorts of obstacles in the boys life. There is a lot of boxing in the book and I really did not like the ending.

Perfect Match
by Jodi Picoult

C+

A mother finds out her young son has been molested. Thinking she knows the perpetrator the mom kills him in the courtroom. As it turns out he is not the offender. I like Piccoult's writing style but this was not one of my favorites by her.

A Summer Affair

by Elin Hildebrand

C+

I like this author a lot but don't think I can rate it higher because of the nature of the story. Just because the affair ends does that make it o.k.?

Five Minute Friday...Relevant

2011-10-28T08:50:00.000-07:00

RELEVANT

I strive to be relevant in my life. But, while thinking about that word today I realized something very important. What if I struggle to be relevant in my daily life but what I really should be focusing on is being relevant with God. In that act of honesty we are truly laid bare and opening ourselves for the help from Him that we desperately need. Relevant to me, is being current and up to date, not stuck in past patterns of behaviour or thinking. But along with keeping up with the times the more important issue might being up to date with my heart. Wherever we are on the journey He sees, knows, understands and LOVES! What could be more relevant that that?

This song by Amy Grant says is perfectly:

BETTER THAN A HALLELUJAH

God loves a lulluby
In a mother's tears in the dead of night
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes

God loves the drunkard's cry
The soldier's plea not to let him die
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes

We pour out our miseries
God just hears a melody
Beautiful, the mess we are
The honest cries of breaking hearts
Are better than a Hallelujah

The woman holding on for life
The dying man giving up the fight
Are better than a Hallelujah sometimes

The tears of shame for what's been done
The silence when the words won't come
Are better than a Hallelujah sometimes

We pour out our miseries
God just hears a melody
Beautiful the mess we are
The honest cries of breaking hearts
Are better than a Hallelujah

Better than a church bell ringing
Better than a choir singing out, singing out

We pour out out miseries
God just hears a melody
Beautiful, the mess we are
The honest cries of breaking hearts
Are better than a Hallelujah

Dots descend on Redding

2011-10-26T08:40:00.000-07:00

This year was my turn to host the Dot's gathering. The Dot's are some college friends that I have been getting together with for the past 3 or 4 years. I must admit that I was a bit nervous this year about hosting the gals since each year they always plan really fun things to do!

Colleen, Nancy and Shelia arrived on Friday afternoon after driving down from Salem, Or. Peggy joined in on all the festivities too! That made the weekend extra special.

The first activity was riding Segways down at Turtle Bay. Despite my fears I thought this would be a fun way to start our weekend! The three travelers did not know that we were doing this so it was pretty great to see their reaction when they figured out what was going on. We took a 2 hour trip around the Turtle Bay area and then over to the Diestlehorst Bridge area. The weather was beautiful and we couldn't have asked for a better day to enjoy Redding's fall loveliness.

As with each Dot outing there were many jokes and jabs of each person's riding ability. I personally was the best fodder for these as my anxiety level was high with my segway learning curve being low. The good news is that I didn't crash even one time.

After Segways we went to In-n-Out for dinner where we were met by Les and Perry who also went to school with the Dot's. The guys headed to the River Bowl next and we girls went to see the Sundial Bridge in all it's "Think Pink" glory. It was pretty amazing. Finally I took N.,C. and S. out to my parents where they spent the night. Everyone needed their rest before another day of fun in the sun to come!

Wedding MV by Tyler Faires Productions

2011-10-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here is the newest offering from TFP! I love the song he chose for this video especially. Hope you enjoy watching it as well.

Josh & Stephanie from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

5 minute Friday- Beyond

2011-10-21T08:39:00.001-07:00

21 October 2011Beyond
Five Minute Friday, brought you by The GypsyMama. Write for five minutes, no editing, no perfecting, just writing.

Beyond sounds like it is far away and a long ways off in the distance but actually it is right here on the fringe of where I am now. I live mostly in the here and now because it seems to be "right in my face" and what needs to be done in order to keep life in balance.

But here is the thing, Beyond, here on this earth is filled with questions.

"Can I handle gracefully the changes coming when my daughter and son in law move to another country?"

"Will I be able to transform my mom life into being an empty nester with my husband when our youngest child leaves home?"

"What will life look like around the bend in the land of Beyond. Filled with uncertainty and anticipation? Can those two things go together even?" In my particular case, I guess so.

Then I think about Beyond in a different way. The beyond that lies in my eternal home, the one that I should be focusing on more than the here and now. I know what that "Beyond" holds. Not clearly, because I don't think that is possible with our clouded view of reality, but the Bible promises someday I will understand it!

1 Corinthians 13:12 (The Message (MSG) 12We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!

So basically Beyond is uncertain but I will dedicate myself to keep on striving to live out my faith until then. Trusting, loving and encouraging on the journey.

Mr. Baugh runs for Senate seat

2011-10-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Supervisor District 5 Les Baugh makes official

announcement to run for Senate
Les and Susie
It was a big day last Thursday as our friend Les Baugh announced his intent to run for a State Senate position in the next election. I went to the County Courthouse to be the official announcement! I believe that Les would do a wonderful job as a Senator representing our state of California. I appreciate his heart for people, his committment to making things better in our state and his personal convictions. He definitely has my vote and it would be pretty cool if my best friend was a Senator's wife too!

Face Time!

2011-10-15T16:06:00.001-07:00

I recently traded my I-pad 1 for and I-pad 2. I can already tell I am going to enjoy the added capabilities of having a camera! I can now face time with Les, Tyler and Preston on their I -phones. Also my BFF Susie! David and Aleah just got an I -pad 2 also so it is going to make talking to them in the DR (Dominican Republic) much easier. They are leaving in January!

Now I am trying to convince Bob and Susan Nish that they should get an I -pad 2 too!

Five Minute Friday

2011-10-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

CATCH

Did I catch this cold or did it catch me? I think it is the latter because when you feel the tell tale signs of sickness coming on normally we do what we can to fight it off. This bout has been no different. The scratchy throat, sinus' that feel so blocked you can barely breathe and of
course the nagging persistant cough that signals the next stage of sickness.

Perhaps I should feel lucky to have been chosen by an extra special germ that wanted to grace my body with it's presence. Cold germs are ones that aren't afraid to share what they have with others. Even if you aren't looking for a ride on the "horrible week when I'm feeling like crap" train, this is an unavoidable trip. Thankfully I have Mr. Nyquil and other assorted members of the cold remedy family to bring with me on the journey. I also have the unfortunate joy of trying to sleep at night propped up on Couch Central so I don't hack all night and keep my hard working husband awake.

So, I would like to propose a toast. Here is to the never invited but annoying cold who came to visit. May the next time you try to catch me find me better at dodging your persistant jabs to get me down and until then may the united forces of sleep, medicine and boxes and boxes of kleenex perservere until you are gone. (And yes, even though effective Mr. Nyquil tastes nasty)

Five minute Friday (on Saturday)

2011-10-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

ORDINARY

Being ordinary is just fine with me. Vanilla ice cream is delicious, and besides that you always know what to expect. Ordinary is reliable and something you can count on. I like that too. That can be quite comforting if you have ever been in an uncertain situation. I have friends who are quite extraordinary and I love the contrast they add to my life! It is such a blast to be around them. They are the Jamocha Almond Fudge and Coconut Pineapple in my vanilla world. They encourage me to be a little less ordinary at times like maybe Chocolate Chip. : )

So from the girl who grew up in a town and never moved away, who has stayed married to the same guy for 26 years, the same one who can be found most evenings sitting on the couch reading.....

being ordinary is just fine with me, as long as it is where God wants me to be!

TFP, with guest second shooter....Les Faires :)

2011-10-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

Les enjoyed helping Tyler shoot this wedding in Lake Almanor, Ca. Les said he was impressed with Tyler's professionalism and work ethic. He also said his feet were VERY tired at the end of a 12 hour plus day.

Gabe & Christine from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Five Minute Friday

2011-09-30T09:41:00.000-07:00

ON FRIENDS

Friends are one of my favorite things in the world! I enjoy the friendships I have cultivated over the years and those special people whom I can turn to for laughter, hugs and sympathy.

Being real with people I trust is one of my favorite things about friends. These are the people I know who will love me for exactly who I am, warts and all. I have said often to my friends in jest "Well, you gotta love me...", but in truth that is what I love most about them. No pretenses, free to show a silly side, go on adventures together, cry with, pray with, and have the mutual acceptance we are all longing for. Sometimes I just call my BF up to shoot the breeze because I know she will do that for me. She also listens when I vent and sympathizes with me.

She "hears me". The real me.

I feel blessed beyond measure for the many friends I have in my life. They are all ages and stages and each one fits in to make me a better person. I work hard at maintaining relationships because I believe it is something Jesus would do. It is one of the investments that I have seen great returns with during my life. My bank balance may not be over the top but I can say happily that my friend balance is! That portfolio is filled with vibrant color, amazing insight, precious faces, warm embraces and pure joy!

"True friendship is seen through the heart not through the eyes"

Anonymous

Reading Log....Sept. 2011

2011-09-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

Wow! I read a LOT in Sept. A few of the books were quite small and so I was able to finish them in a day or two. I have also decided that one of the reasons I read so much is that it is much cheaper than shopping! I like to look for bargains but reading is more affordable and it is way more fun than cleaning.

*Olive Kitterdge by Elizabeth Strout

This is always at the bookstore and Costco and after reading it I know why. BOO! Depressing vignettes of poor Olives life and people in her town. Not my cup of tea at all. Really glad I didn't buy it.

*The Lost Mother by Mary McGarry Morris

Good book about some children living during the depression. Their mom runs off and they are with their dad trying to survive the days of no work and hard times. I thought it was probably a pretty good rendition of how things were during this time in many people's lives.

A Company of Swans by Eva Ibbotson

SO much drivel. Got this one at the library book sale and I'm not sure if it was worth a quarter. Girl escapes her evil father's clutches to run off and join the Russian ballet. Of course she meets a handsome benefactor who charms her from beginning to end. BLEH....

*Shanghai Girls by Lisa See

If we are on a good book, bad book rotation then this definitely was a good one! I actually promised myself I would never read another Lisa See book because I didn't like her first two at all. This one was excellent though. 2 sisters living in China as pampered wealthy teens must flee to America when their father marries them off to strangers to pay his gambling debts. The book goes through their struggle of getting to America, living on Ellis Island and then their years as foreigners. This one is definitely worth reading.

Never Change by Elizabeth Berg

This book was one of those short ones that I read in one day. A wallflower during high school grows up to be a caring and devoted nurse as an adult. One day she gets the call for a job to care for one of her old classmates who is dying. It sounds depressing but it was actually not that much. I enjoyed the stories of her other patients and how she touched their lives even when she felt like she was the frumpy girl who became the frumpy middle aged lady.

*Silver Girl by Elin Hilderbrand

This was my 2nd time to read an Elin H. book. It was part mystery and part reflection of the characters life before. She is an enjoyable author. This book was a nice easy read and it drew you in to the story.

*A Dangerous Woman by Mary McGarry Morris

So, I read this author earlier in the month and loved that one. So, I ordered this book from paperbackswap.com only to be so disappointed. CRAZY lady stalks people she works with and her family. Creepy and bad. No thank you.

*The Beet Queen by Louise Erdrich

I loved the Master Singers Butcher Club by this author so decided to give this one a try. Had a similar beginning plot line but it kind of detiorated towards the middle and end. This one was written before TMSBC, so maybe it was just a trial run for the real thing. I don't think I would recommend this one. The Master Singers Butcher's Club was much better.

"The King and WE"

2011-09-26T09:45:00.000-07:00

Peggy had a birthday a few weeks ago and I wanted to surprise her with something special. I saw a play that was being performed in Davis and decided that it would be a fun thing to do with our girls! So, we kept the days events a secret and planned a day of fun in Sacramento and then on to the play in the evening.

To say we enjoy Peggy would be an understatement. She is one of the most fun people I have ever had the pleasure to be around. All week leading up to our getaway I sent her random texts asking obscure questions to throw her off the path. "Do you have any freeze dried food?" "Are you adverse to skinny dipping?" Things like that. Finally Saturday arrived and we all met to pick up the birthday girl and begin our adventure.

We began the eating in Sacramento at a cupcake store called Vanilla Bean, with amazing gourmet cupcakes. We decided that the S'more one may have been the favorite, but they were actually all amazing. They even had a "Chuck Norris" cupcake which Jenn had, another great one was the maple bacon cupcake with a piece of bacon on the top. YUM :) After that snack we headed to Old Sac and the K Street mall to do a little shopping followed by dinner at Fat City in Old Sac. Then we were off to the play "The King and I". That part of the day was not exactly as I had envisioned but it was especially memorable. I had originally thought, "Davis has a big university there so this must be a pretty great local production. It was interesting to say the least in the casting and production value. Much of the ride home following was trying to determine what quirky parts was everyone's favorite. It was a good effort is the nicest way I can describe it. We will never forget it, that is for sure!

I am always happy to celebrate my dear friend and having our "girls" there to be a part of the fun made it even more special! Happy Birthday Peg-leg! Love you!

Wild Blue Yonder

2011-09-26T09:43:00.001-07:00

2011 Air Show in Redding, CA. Sunday, Sept. 25th

We had seats right up near the runway! What a treat!

We also had a delicious lunch of bbq sandwiches, chips,

coleslaw and ice cream!

This was a Canadian jet. It was fast.

The Air Force Thunderbirds doing a manuever

Even though the skies were very overcast when we arrived the blue skies broke through by the end of the day. We had a terrific time with Les and Susie, Mike, Melissa and kids!

Never stop growing

2011-09-23T08:18:00.001-07:00

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Go a little overboard encouraging the writer who linked up before you.
OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Growing…

The decade of my 40's isn't that far from being history and the older I grow the more I realize we should never stop the growing process.

I was born in the 1960's and spent a good 20 years in the normal way of learning and becoming a person who loved God and made as few mistakes as possible. Then the
1980's and 90's were filled with more growing as I became a wife and mom. Learning more of who I was and how that even though I was trying not to make mistakes it was harder to keep the ugly truth under wraps. My life was busy and productive and full of great memories. Now in the decade of 20-teens I am realizing I have so much work to do on myself to be more fully a true reflection of Christ. I am working on dealing with deep issues of my core, working on my marriage, prayer and identity.

I laugh to myself when I hear the question, "what do you want to be when you grow up?" What I thought I wanted at 18 was nowhere near where God has taken me through the years. If I would have stopped growing at that point and put the bloom of my life in a vase it may have been pretty but not as unique and surprising as the result of 30 additional years of growth now. The seeds that we scatter as we pour into other's lives are the result of years of great weather, some of dry years and times when we felt as if the growth was completely finished. So, instead of a single bloom in a vase I'm praying for a garden full of beauty.

Tyler Faires Productions is keeping busy.....

2011-09-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

Ryan & Erin from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Wes and Harper Get Married!

2011-09-19T11:26:00.001-07:00

The decorations were AMAZING!

The bridesmaid was beautiful!

From the save the date, the invitations and all the decor it was
so cute and fun! They had a circus theme. Very festive!

The many cakes....

David and Aleah
David performed the ceremony for the happy couple!

Adorable handmade pinwheels

delicious cake pops made by the grooms cousin :-)

Wes and Harper
The happy couple!!

bridesmaids bouquet's

besties! Aleah and Chels

Harper's bouquet. Made out of antique pins.
Gorgeous and very heavy

Tyler was able to come at the end of the night. He was shooting another wedding at a different location. He was disappointed not to be there the entire time since he and Wes have been friends since the 8th grade. They had their first band "Haywire" together and then went on to play in Constancy together and Wesley Jensen and friends. It was a gorgeous evening and one of the most fun weddings I have ever been to. The location was "The White House" in Redding and I would recommend it highly as well. From beginning to end it was incredible! So happy for Wes and Harper and their new life together! May God bless them and their families!

Five Minute Friday

2011-09-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

The Prompt this week from thegyspymama.com

(Writing for 5 minutes without editting
on the topic she gives).

JOY

Joy is something that comes from deep down inside of us. It is one of the fruits of the Spirit listed in the Bible and makes our life better by the cultivation of it. When I think of Joy, it is normally associated with different sayings like

*There is a joy in the journey

*The joy of the Lord is my strength

*Jesus, Others and You what a wonderful way to spell Joy

*Joyful, Joyful, We adore you!

Joy is something that comes from deep down inside of who you are. It isn't based on things like money or status, it is bigger than that. Joy is like a quiet well inside my soul that keeps me balanced. It is something that is beyond circumstances that want to become our focus. In the hard times it is the deeper emotion that reminds me that even if I may not be "happy" at the moment I can choose to be joyful.

Joy is security. Number 1, my place as a child of God who see's me through the sacrifice of Jesus who paid the price for my sin. It is feeling the warm embrace of my husband who has been with me through the ups and downs of 26 years. It is looking at my children's faces as they laugh and share being a part of our family. Happiness is seeing the silver lining of a cloud but Joy is knowing that the Creator of the clouds is who I put my trust in.

Just because

2011-09-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

Chuck Norris can strangle you with a cordless phone.

Chuck Norris can hear sign language.

Chuck Norris knows Victoria's Secret.

Superman owns a pair of Chuck Norris' pajamas.

Time machine Concert?

2011-09-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

Music is an amazing thing. Upon the hearing of certain tunes we are instantly transported back to another time and memories come flooding in. I really don't believe that time travel is possible in a literal sense, but I totally agree with it in some cases of sights and sounds.

Amy Grant wasn't the first album I ever bought but it was one of the first cassette tapes I remember listening to over and over again. Her "My Father's Eyes" was my first exposure to her as an artist and I was hooked. Next up was "Age to Age" and that amazing song "Sing Your Praise to the Lord". I remember riding in my friends car with that song cranked to the limit and singing along at the top of my lungs. Perfect memories.

Over the years I have still loved Amy's projects especially her Christmas project "Home for Christmas "means the Holiday's are here" to me to her current "Somewhere down the Road", I love it all. So it was with great anticipation that I waited for this concert in our fair city. Even though the tickets were pricey I decided to surprise Les with tickets for the event. I love Amy's music but I think Les is even beyond me in being a devoted fan. If I'm not mistaken the first concert we attended as a couple was her Straight Ahead tour where Michael W. Smith was her piano player.

To say that Amy Grant "still has it", would be 100% correct. It was a small band of keyboard, drums and another guitar/vocalist. Her easy relaxed style was true to her roots of excellent songwriting and beautiful melodies. I felt like singing along to every song and was renewed in my heart and mind by her years as an artist and her heart for God. No flashy sets or slick arrangements, just a girl with her guitar singing. And it blessed me.

So happy to go with our "date buddies",

Les and Susie!

We got to see Ruthie and Drew too! They got engaged on Saturday!!

In Real Life,

2011-09-09T09:20:00.001-07:00

The Prompt this week from

(Writing for 5 minutes without editting
on the topic she gives).

"In Real Life"

I am a lover not a fighter.

I value relationships and love when you want to spend time with me.

I wish I was more motivated.

I am realizing the older I get, the more I have to learn.

Less is often more.

Cherish the moments.

People matter, things don't.

I'm perfect in God's eyes.

You don't have to cook every night to be a good wife/mom.

Rest is important.

God is in control!!

What say ye?

2011-09-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Les painted the kitchen for me. When I painted most of the walls red 6 years ago I was not happy with the way it turned out. I loved the color but not the look of the paint consistency, and with my new pale green cabinets it looked a little like North Pole Central. Les is an amazing painter. His precise personality makes sure things are done well and for this I am very grateful. He takes his time to do the job correctly.

So what do you think? I actually think the old tile countertops look kind of cool now. Next up replacing the overhead flourescent light. THANK YOU HONEY!

Another wedding from TFP in honor of Labor Day

2011-09-03T09:59:00.000-07:00

Tyler is in LA this weekend shooting a wedding and so what would be better than posting a wedding MV that he recently did! He and David flew down yesterday. So, they are both laboring on Labor Day weekend and also enjoying themselves I hope!

Enjoy the video!

Kevin & Krissy from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

2011-09-02T11:17:00.000-07:00

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.2. Link back here and invite others to join in.

REST

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me- watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn how to live freely and lightly."

Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message)

Rest is something we crave. Often we feel we don't have enough of it. Other times we may want it, but are not really sure "how to do it"? I myself look forward to rest in the form of unstructured mornings when I do not need to wake up tired to go to work. Rest is a good thing. Something we need whether we want it or not.

When I saw the word prompt for today I immediately thought of the verse listed above. I know I have felt burdened down and tired of living life status quo. What a blessing to see that God doesn't want us to be oppressed, worn out, stressed out and exhausted. Plus, he wants to give us the tools to learn how to REST.

"Learn the rhytms of grace." God's grace is without measure, unfailing and LARGE!

Here's to finding REST in Him!

My Dr. is taller than me!

2011-09-01T09:46:00.001-07:00

SAM_2367
Originally uploaded by Faires Photos

Yesterday I went to see my surgeon for the last look at my surgery site and get the all-clear. Everything is looking very good. Stitches out, healing well, hair growing, etc.

When I asked Dr. Tate if I could take a picture of him for my scrapbook I said maybe I should sit so I wouldn't look taller than him. That elicited quite a response! He said, "Stand up, I know I am taller than you." He even made us stand back to back and take the picture so I could see for myself how much taller he is.

He was an excellent surgeon and I would recommend him highly. Very caring, great skill and his office staff is awesome too. I got a little choked up when I left his office yesterday. Praise to God for the healing he has worked in this situation.

Book Report...August Edition

2011-08-29T18:54:00.000-07:00

August 2011
5 books read

The Crying Tree. B +

By Naseem Rakha: family tragedy leads those left to deal with grief, forgiveness and memories. I liked the writing style.

What She Wants. C +

By Cathy Kelly: what I would call a "typical Brit lit" book. Family moves from London to a small town and how it changes them.

Oh My Stars. B +

By Lorna Landvik: 2nd time I have read this one. So great! One girls life from the factory working girl to living through the 1940's with a traveling multi-racial music group. The first LL book I read and I have been hooked since then! I like her writing style!

The Space Between Us. B -

By Thrity Umrigar: story of Indian maids life versus her employers. Interesting concept.

Cutting For Stone. B

By Abraham Vergese: 2 identical twin boys are born at a mission hospital in Nigerian hospital to an Indian mother and American father. When their mother dies and father runs off they are raised by a couple at the Mission. The story follows their life through adulthood and takes them to America and back again. The story was good but seemed a little tedious at times, especially with a lot of detailed medical procedures,etc. Overall it was a really good book. I am glad I read it!

A pretty good month of reading even though I didn't seem to add many titles to my list.

5 minute Friday.....

2011-08-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

Recently I was checking out blogs of other people I know and this particular post caught my attention. One person does something called "5 Minute Friday". On that day they write for 5 minutes about a subject. I think they suggest a topic on the originators site each week. I thought it might be a fun thing to try out. Want to join me?

(I picked something easy to start with)
SUNSHINE
I have always lived in a hot climate. It's what I'm used to and what I like. During the cold dreary days of winter I long for the sunshine and warmth that is hopefully waiting just around the corner. At times we get a peak out from behind the clouds and warm weather pays a short visit. It always makes me so happy. Other times during those months when I feel like I can't stand another day of cold I wish that I could get in my car and drive to a state that is perpetually sunshiney. Arizona perhaps? Will I be a snow bird when I retire? The thought sounds inviting.

So, these days of 100 degree weather are a joy for me. I must admit though since my re-occurrance of skin cancer recently that I have determined that it will need to be more controlled and careful. Hats a must when out in the glorious rays! Yesterday after working I met some friends over at their swimming pool. Floating, talking and relaxing were on the agenda and it was really great. Even though I love warm weather I am not a particular water LOVER, but floating is purely lovely.

Here is to warm summer days, glasses of frosty iced tea, conversations with friends, and the comfort of air-conditioning when I am in my car! Thank you God for the blessings of the sunshine and YOUR Son in my life. May they both shine brightly for all to see!

Assorted pictures from the last few weeks....

2011-08-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

Mom and I go on Hellgate Excursion in Grants Pass, Or.

We got SOAKED, and it was so much fun!!

Preston's first day of 11th grade!

On Sunday Susie and Riley drove up to Starship Camp with me to see Preston perform. The camp is the same one that Susie and I went to as kids (a million years ago)

Starship performed 5 songs! They did an amazing job!!

Catch up......

2011-08-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

I have been remiss in blogging the past few weeks. I have been keeping "busy" so to speak in healing up from the head surgeries I recently had. I am blessed to report that all is well with the scalp in question. Some of the stitches came out last Friday and the hair is beginning to grow back where they had shaved it. In fact, Dr. Tate did such a wonderful job that when all is said and done, it looks like the new scar will be SMALLER than the previous one! Isn't that amazing? The surgeries were quite a breeze overall and recovery speedy. All the cancer is removed for which I am very thankful. The one drawback was going back to work one week post-surgery. The first week back after summer break is brutal and this year no different. My boss at work told me not to come back until I was ready, but I knew it was just prolonging the inevitable. It was stressful and by Thur. night I had a bad migraine. Les took me to the walk in clinic that evening and they were able to provide some relief.

My profound thanks for all those who were praying for me during the past month. Each person who encouraged, helped, prayed and was there for me made the healing even better. I know the outcome is God's and I also praise Him for being the Great Physician. I am happy that this is one more chapter behind me.

*I have pictures from last month to post but couldn't upload them from the computer at home. Hope to get to that tomorrow....

Until next time~

Same day edit another TF Production

2011-08-12T22:25:00.000-07:00

Tyler shot background footage for this video several weeks before the wedding. Then on the day of the wedding he added in footage from the ceremony. This entire video was shown at the reception which was very special. I actually attended this wedding and enjoyed so many aspects of their celebration! Congratulations Jeff and Stephanie! Thanks for letting us share in your day!

Jeff & Stephanie SDE from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Isn't there an old saying "2 head surgeries are better than 1?"

2011-08-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

It has been an eventful week for my noggin.

Monday morning had us in Sacramento at Dr. Fazio's office for a MOHS procedure on my scalp. We arrived at 8 am and were there until about 3 p.m. They removed 2 dime size patches of basal cel carcinomas and 1 nickel size. Not much pain and overall a stress free operation.

Drove home and then after a short nights sleep? arrived at Patients Hospital in Redding at 5 a.m. for surgery #2. This was a reconstructive surgery by Randy Tate. It was my first time at Patients and what a nice change of pace that was. It is a 10 bed private hospital with very attentive staff. Out of that surgery around 11 a.m. or so and all went well except bad post op nausea. After a few hours of throwing up they gave me something that quieted things down and we headed home about 3 p.m.

I am very bandaged up and will be able to take the BIG bandages off tomorrow. Stitches will stay in for longer and won't be able to wash my hair for awhile. I was going to post the pictures of what the surgery site looks like but it is pretty graphic. I'll let you see my Nun/wrap instead and call it good.

All in all things have gone very well. Pain has been minimal and help and support have been HUGE! Lots of love, food, treats and prayers. All mean the world to me! Let's pray this is the final chapter in this saga and will give God the Glory for his watchcare and healing. I have much to be thankful for.

PWF turns 16!

2011-08-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

Last weekend marked the day of Preston's birth. Wow! The good news is that a birthday in July means swimming.....

and hanging with friends......

and having birthday lunch with your family and a delicious dessert made by Grammy!!

Preston shares his birthday with Matt Baugh, my cousin Andie, my great aunt Betty and his kindergarten teacher Mrs. Garcia! Many reasons to celebrate! Love you PW....More than the Most!!

Cardboard Testimonies

2011-07-31T19:14:00.001-07:00

During these past few months at "The Well" we have been sharing "Stories". Things in our lives that have shaped us and how God has changed the outcome of those stories for His glory. Each and every story that was shared was unique and an encouragement to see where and how God has led.

Today was the culmination of that series and along with the last person that shared anyone at our service was invited to come up and add their own cardboard testimony to the group's. It was so uplifting to see God being glorified as the ONE who has saved us and is continuing to change us. One of the things that struck me most is when David shared today and said that when we see people standing on the corner with a cardboard sign we never get to see "the rest of their story". Those cardboard signs are one sided. But ours today (and always) are on one side proclaiming what we were and on the other, what God has shown us about ourselves and how He has changed us! From broken to healed, insecure to seeing our identity in Christ, addicted to free from addiction, losing our minds to having God renew us daily.

I was deeply moved by everyone who shared and although I didn't have the courage to go forward during the service I did go up and make a sign to add to the group.

Here is my cardboard testimony below.

What would your piece of cardboard say?

Coffee with HB

2011-07-28T20:36:00.001-07:00

Haleigh is home from college for the summer and we finally found a time to get together and catch up. I enjoyed visiting with her SO much and hearing how life is going and all the great ways God is leading and guiding her. We had so much to chat about we stayed for 2 1/2 hours! Love that girl!

Deal of the Day.....school shopping style

2011-07-28T20:16:00.000-07:00

You know it is getting to the end of summer fun when you have to go school clothes shopping. Preston, Aleah, Gram and I went today to Chico to shop at Forever 21. They were having some great sales for guys and Preston ended up with 4 t's, 2 sweaters, a light sweatshirt and a long sleeve shirt for around $70. 8 items all told. One store and we were done. Now he just needs some new kicks (shoes) and a backpack!

Happy 1st Anniversary Mr. & Mrs. Nishizaki

2011-07-25T15:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday was David and Aleah's first anniversary. Throughout the day I was recalling the happy memories of one year previously. In fact, I was scrapbooking that day and was working on the week prior to the wedding in the family album.

To say I am proud of them would be an understatement! To see their love and care for one another has been a blessing and encouragement to me. I know that God is blessing them because they have Him first in their lives.

Wedding season for TFP

2011-07-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

I am very thrilled to post this wedding since I have known the groom's parents from before they were married. Another rainy wedding but Tyler said the bride and groom were so much fun to work with! And what a huge wedding party!!

Garrett & Jennifer from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Mt. Shasta Lavender Farm

2011-07-17T16:56:00.000-07:00

The Labrynth

they serve you lavender lemonade when you arrive!

Last Sunday I went to the Lavender Farm with Susie and Melissa. It is about 20-25 minutes from Weed, CA. You have to drive on a really long, dirty, bumpy, red dirt road uphill to get to the destination. Once there it is worth it though. Beautiful views and lovely lavender to see. I am very glad I was able to see it in person. And it is a nice day trip if you are in the area.

Houseboat Camp 2011 with HM Redding

2011-07-14T18:51:00.000-07:00

Preston and 93 other high school aged students have been out on Shasta Lake this week since Monday afternoon.

David and Aleah are along as adult help with David is leading worship for the camp. I went out on Wed, afternoon with my dad to pull some tubers around. The kids seemed like they are all having a super time! The lake is very FULL and the various hues of blue, green and browns were breathtaking. Redding has been having unseasonably cool weather this week and they got quite a bit of rain out on the lake last night. I am sure it was an adventure. "Remember the year it rained during houseboat camp?"

Aleah's adventure was having to leave houseboat camp to be at jury duty on Tue. She was Juror #2 until just before noon on Wed. when she was excused. I could tell by the big smile on her face that she was happy to be back with her hubby! I am also very glad to have MY hubby home from his week long motorcycle trip. He traveled 1,500 miles and enjoyed the glorious Oregon scenery and landscapes. I told him that a whole week was a little too long to be gone next time.

We are looking forward to having Preston home and hearing about all the good times he had. I am also guessing that he will sleep 24 hours straight!

Unexpected rainy wedding from TFP

2011-07-12T22:18:00.000-07:00

This wedding turned out so well! Even with the unexpected shower there was dancing and joy!

Jared & Karissa from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Hooray for Red, White and Blue!

2011-07-06T23:13:00.000-07:00

On the 4th of July we went to Burney Falls with the family and then to the fireworks at the Convention Center with Les and Susie! We had a great day! (Sorry pic's are out of order)

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Dropping by to say Hi!

2011-07-06T19:36:00.001-07:00

Sunday evening I got a wonderful surprise telephone call from my friend Shari. She was traveling through Redding with her family and they stopped for dinner and we went to meet them! Shari was my last roomie in college while I was a Resident Assistant in the dorm. We had some fun back then but I must say that the friendship has deepened and gotten incredibly more sweet over the years. It was wonderful to see her boys and hubby and spend some time visiting. The time wasn't long enough but we laughed and wished that we lived closer together. It was a lovely surprise and even though I gave them the wrong exit to get to Del Taco, they were still speaking to me when they left. That's a true friend!

Vaca with a capital V!

2011-07-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

Last week we spent some glorious time with friends and family in Oregon. We began the trip in Salem seeing our friends Jerry and Karen and Brian and Sandy. I also got to see a great friend Laura which was a lovely surprise. On Sunday evening we drove from Salem to Portland to see Mary Poppins-The Musical. We got to sit with some friends from Corban College. The play was excellent and Les really enjoyed himself. I think he was a bit surprised at that in fact!

On Monday we drove over to Pacific City, OR where we met all of Les' siblings, their spouses and 3 of our nephews. We had one full day of sunshine (which was terrific) and one day of rain (which meant we HAD to go shopping at the outlets and the guys went to the movies). We enjoyed seeing all these precious people and catching up on what is going on in their lives. We had some laughs, shared lots of delicious food, excellent coffee and of course a picture or two. We felt the absence of Dad Faires each moment since this is the first year he has not attended. There were others from our crew not there for other reasons and we missed all of them as well.

Thought I would share a few pics of our time and the wonderful rest we had.

At Mary Poppins with Anne Jeffers, Nancy Martyn and Kim Hughes

Les and Brian (aka furry face ;)

My first roomie!

Jerry H and Les

This was the crew that made it up the HUGE sand mountain!!

Watch this wedding by Tyler Faires Productions

2011-06-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on vacation this past week! I will post soon about all the fun! Until then, please enjoy the newest released wedding from TFP!

Ryan & Nicole from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

First week of Summer

2011-06-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was the official Summer Solstice as well as when the heat began in earnest for our Redding summer. I am happy for the warm temperatures and the relaxing days of vacation.

Here are some of the things I did this week, it has been divine!

Happy Father's Day

Preston, Les and Aleah (Tyler was shooting a wedding in Grass Valley, CA)

Kim, Fred and Ken

celebrating our dear friend Karen's birthday! Dinner and a Movie...

Not cars, but the promo looked good ;)

Mosquito Serenade (week #2)

Blue's Band "the most fun you can have for free

on a Wednesday night in No. Cal

Have you been enjoying Summer so far? What have you done that was

interesting/fun/or relaxing?

A "FAIR" date

2011-06-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

A balmy June evening, a trip to the Fair with friends, having it be just exactly as it has been each year I have attended PLUS cinnamon roasted almonds!

"Thanks God for happy memories....."

A joyful reunion

2011-06-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

You know the feeling you get when you see someone that you haven't seen in a long time? Someone who was such a close and dear friend that you wonder how did it ever work out that it has been _____ years since I have seen them?

I was blessed with feeling that tremendous joy today! Lory was someone I knew since my teen years. In fact, she was the person who took me to see the movie "Strange Brew" before I left for college. Her family is like family and I remember watching her little girl Amber grow up over the years. So many memories of Christmas candy making days, Lori's excellent cooking skills, having Amber as one of the junior servers when Les and I got married and much more. Eventually Lory and her family moved and it was harder to keep in touch. We went to Ambers college graduation and since then haven't seen them.

But this is how God works. A few months ago when my dad was just beginning to get back on his feet from his horrific ordeal I ran into Amber at a small local taco shop in Redding. At first I thought it was her and hoped I wasn't wrong! We hugged and tried to quickly get up to speed on each others lives. We vowed to try and get together and hoped it would happen.

Today was that day! We saw Lory again for the first time in 12 years AND met Ambers sweet 18 month old son. We all shed some tears as we rejoiced over seeing these dear friends after such a long absence. I cannot begin to tell you what a blessing it was to hear how God has worked in their lives and that the divine appointment a few months ago at a taco shop would bring so much joy. Amber has been instrumental in linking us with a specialist in Sacramento too which was no accident in God's agenda! Today I am thankful for the joy of a friends hug and renewing connections!

Deal of the Day!

2011-06-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

Crunchwrap Supreme from Taco Bell 99cents

*Limit 2 per customer

Through 6/18/11 at Participating Stores

(only 540 calories)

Getting away

2011-06-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

There are times when we all need to do it. Take a break from the normal activities and do something to recharge your batteries. This is a good thing for your physical, spiritual and emotional well being.

This past weekend I did just that without having to drive more than 5 miles from my home. I was able to spend 2 nights at a hotel with my bf Susie where we scrapbooked, talked, read, watched some movies and just hung out. It was terrific getting away but still be close to home. I truly love having time to work on our family history via the scrapbook and as I completed pages I kept reflecting on God's goodness and provision. I am currently up to June 2010 in the album and was working with pictures from our Faires Family Reunion. The pictures immediately took me back to the wonderful time we had with our family and the things we did. There were so many great shots of laughter and love and just being together. Bittersweet are the pictures of Dad Faires, who is now in Glory. Last June we did not realize this would be our last get together with the patriarch of the Faires Clan. That made the memories that much sweeter as I recalled the trip. How thankful I am that David was able to be with us and that he was able to meet Grandfather Faires as well. How happy I also am that we "force" everyone to do group shots each year! They are priceless images now.

So, that was how I spent the last 2 days. Reminiscing, recharging and relaxing. It was well worth the drive!

one of my favorite shots from last June!

Disappointed

2011-06-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

I think the word above describes how I felt yesterday.

11 years ago I had surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma from the top of my head. Being blonde and living in Northern California all of my life gave me greater odds to have this occur. At the time of the surgery it was invasive and riddled with post operative setbacks including a staph infection and a large area of my scalp that is now "hair free" aka....bald. I have adjusted and thankfully a side part and comb over means most people never notice that smooth patch on my head.

Last week I was at our family doctor and asked him to check "my head". Sadly, he said it looked like the cancer had returned and so he took a biopsy and sent it off to the lab. Results were phoned in and an appointment with a local plastic surgeon ensued. At that appointment yesterday I was sorry to hear that the skin cancer cannot be removed here in Redding. I have been referred to a specialist in Sacramento and am waiting to hear from them.

The emotions I have felt are varied. Mostly I am disappointed that this has to be dealt with again. I am also feeling like there are so many others with bigger battles than this and I shouldn't be concerned over such a minor issue. One thing I can say with certainty is that God is in control and his ways are bigger than mine. I chose to share the news because I appreciate the prayers and I hope to use this to help someone in the future.

As always check the blog for more updates.....and thank you for walking this path with me.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

12 By yourself you're unprotected.
   With a friend you can face the worst.
   Can you round up a third?
   A three-stranded rope isn't easily snapped.

The Message (MSG)
Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson

Another new wedding from Tyler Faires Productions

2011-06-05T21:41:00.000-07:00

Adam & Crystal from Tyler Faires Productions on Vimeo.

Memorial Day 2011

2011-05-31T18:46:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for the many who gave so I can enjoy

the freedoms that I have today.

Jo and Kent drove over to Othello yesterday from their home to see William Edward Faires' flag flown on the Memorial Day presentation at the cemetery. They also stayed for the service to honor all the veterans. I am quite glad that they were able to be there to witness

and enjoy the day.

Here in Redding, we battled grey skies but still enjoyed a barbecue indoors with our favorite people Bob and Susan Nishizaki. When they come and visit we all fight over them (no lie). Bob and Fred even tried out "Just Dance" and did a mean rendition of Viva Las Vegas!

(not pictured, but present: Tyler, Preston and Kim)

Deal of the day! 23 cent shirt!

2011-05-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

It does not get any better than this....

I hit the Old Navy in Redding today and caught some of the half off the clearance goodness! There was a rack near the door with sweaters and sweatshirts for $1.47. I grabbed one for Les (plus some other goodies) and when I checked out the henley thermal knit shirt rang up at .23 cents! WILD, HUH?!

A lot of cute things there to choose from at rock bottom prices!

My advice is check it out!

Our favorite drummer

2011-05-25T09:44:00.000-07:00

Last Friday evening was EHS Coffeehouse Jazz. What a wonderful night of Jazz vocal and instrumental groups. All were so very talented. We loved all the music, delicious desserts and cheering Preston on. The PWF fan club included Grammy, Papa, Aunt Deana and Dick, Les and Susie Baugh and of course Mom and Dad :-)

It is my favorite concert of the year actually. Next May you should all come and see it for yourselves.

Special thanks to Les for taping this for me and posting it onto Vimeo so I could share it via the blog. If you want to see the other number that featured Preston just go to Vimeo.com and search Les Faires. The song is called Back Burner and he really tears it up on that one.

Preston Faires, Drummer - EHS - Coffeehouse Jazz - May 20, 2011 - JAZZ CALLING from Les Faires on Vimeo.

Cowboy Up, from the best seats in the house!

2011-05-23T10:51:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you what a great time I had at the rodeo on Saturday night! We had spectacular seats courtesy of Les Baugh and that made it so much fun! We were front and center in the first row of box seats directly across from the announcers booth. The seats were actually SO good that I joked about feeling like I was a Make-A-Wish child. It was a treat! Tri-Counties bank was the sponsor's for Saturday night so we all got these great cow bells and bandana's too. That was an added bonus!

We were there from the very beginning of the action to the very last bull rider. We saw Mutton Busting, bronc riding, barrel racing, roping, drill teams, bull riding, the Clydesdales, and the One Armed Bandit! I think my favorites were the bronc riding and the Clydesdales. Man alive, those are some BIG horses!

I felt really honored to get to be a part of the fun of the Redding Rodeo, up close and personal! We got mud flung into our box from the galloping horses that raced by. I should have picked it up and saved it for the scrapbook, but I didn't. A super fun spring evening, the weather was amazing! And like my friend Becky said, "We all got a hillbilly bone deep down inside ..."

Susie and I

Bronc Riding

This was the rodeo clown!

Look at the decorations in the Clydesdales mane. Their tails were very fancy too!

Tom Brown, our friend is a part of the drill team! I was pretty excited to

see him and he waved too :-)

The One Armed Bandit with 2 bisons on top of his trailer.

He trained the bisons himself. It was amazing!

Preston Paradeo: Have drum will travel

2011-05-22T14:32:00.000-07:00

Preston is playing the "quads" 4 drums. It is pretty heavy

but Preston is a stud. ;)

The 63 annual rodeo parade took place yesterday morning. Preston was there playing with the EHS band. This is the 4th rodeo parade that he has played in a band for. It was a lovely day for the event, with sunshine and mild temperatures. It did feel a "little bit" hot by the end of the parade route, but nothing like previous years when it was close to 100 degrees.

Both my mom and I were there to help and cheer on the Hornets! I always enjoy being with them and getting to walk a few steps behind the band as they go along the route. We haven't heard who won the marching band competition yet, but if Enterprise won 1st that would mean all superior ratings for this past year which is the first time since the 80's that has happened. It HAS been a spectacular season for the music program!

So here are photo's of our morning. Tomorrow I will post about the rodeo that I attended last night. So many fun things this weekend I had best portion them out a few at a time to make my good blogs hold out for a week or so ;-)

*special thanks to Kent for the title idea for this post

We got home from the parade and look what Les

had brought home....a new motorcycle~

Pancakes in the early morning hours

2011-05-20T16:21:00.001-07:00

Asphalt Cowboys cooking up the "cakes". There are multiple lines

of these stations and they really can get alot of people served.

My mom is always an early riser. Look how great she looks!

I do not relish waking up any earlier than I absolutely have to. Ever.

Normally when it is the annual Redding Rodeo Pancake Breakfast I choose to not attend and take my time getting ready for work at home. Defying the odds this year I decided to go and make a memory with our family. Up at 5:45 a.m. and then to our meeting spot at 6:30 am. was brutal but doable.

The Pancake Breakfast is one of the biggest Rodeo week events Redding has to offer. 10,000 people go each year to get their fill of pancakes, sausage and juice or milk. Usually breakfast is something that Les does with the kids, but I did enjoy getting up earlier than normal for one day. The pancakes were delicious, and the juice divine. Even though I didn't think I was hungry I actually was the first one done my breakfast. We did miss Tyler and David though. They don't know what they were missing....but I guess they were NOT missing any sleep.

Tomorrow I'll be downtown once again to see Preston tear it up for the Rodeo Parade, and then tomorrow night "I'm going to the Rodeo". If anyone knows any great Country Western songs I can use for a title, please leave a comment for me!

Wishes

2011-05-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

If wishes were fishes I'd have my limit today....

*I wish the sun was out
*I wish it wasn't cold and gloomy today
*I wish I had something great (fun) to blog about
*I wish cleaning the house sounded more appealing....