* * * * * * Chippin' In ................Together Forever *

Tucanos March 2010: Sibling Bday Celebration

2010-03-26T22:57:00.000-07:00

Bryson and Christopher both have birthdays in March and they were "big" birthdays this year. Bryson turned 16 and Christopher turned 25.

All the siblings decided to get together for dinner at Tucanos, a Brazilian Grill, to celebrate.

Here's a picture of the Birthday Club card Bryson received.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Bryson and Christopher!!

Christopher's Orange Julius Recipe

2010-03-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

Christopher called home today.

"Can you give me the recipe for Orange Julius that’s in the cookbook on rings?”
“Okay,” I said, “let me see if I can find it and I’ll call you back.”

Sure enough, page 5 in the ‘cherry’ colored section of Grandma Lynn’s old West Valley ward cookbook was this recipe, complete with Christopher’s handwritten changes

“Wow, you’re good to remember exactly where it was.” I said, when I called back.
“It was one of the recipes I really enjoyed making while I was growing up.” he said.

It must have really impressed him! He hasn’t lived at home since 2004.

Bryson's 30-point Piano Solo Cup

2010-01-11T19:25:00.000-08:00

Bryson decided at the end of school last year that he wanted to stop taking piano lessons. Larry and I weren't very excited about that, but after several discussions with him, agreed to let him do so, once he completed a couple of things. One of those was to earn his 30-point Solo cup.

Cups, in Federation Festival programs, are earned by performing in front of 3 judges and receiving a score from 1-5, with 5 given when the piece is performed as closely to perfect as possible. At the end of last summer, Bryson had 29 Solo points, earned over 6 years, which means he had received a 5, or "Superior" rating 5 years and a 4 or "Excellent" rating one year. A score of "1" is given when a student performs poorly, and our kids' piano teacher won't even let them participate in the Festival if they aren't prepared to at least a performance level of 4.

Bryson prepared his number, albeit with some foot dragging and grumbling - because he was SURE he wanted to quit piano, went to Festival, received another "5", and promptly quit. Our piano teacher is also a secretary at his high school. Rather than have him come back several months to an awards and recital night after he stopped taking lessons to "present' his cup to him, which he didn't want to do, she brought it to school and he brought it home.

So, finally...now...he has his 30-point cup.

He plays the piano beautifully. It is a joy to listen to his music, and at times he will also sing along, which we enjoy.

And last month, after taking some time on his own to reflect on what matters in his life....

he wants to take piano again.

(Can you hear the smile of both "knowing" as well as relief and gratitude coming from his mother's heart? He doesn't think he can fit it into his schedule right now, but I hope this summer he'll really try to make room for it. It is a talent that will bless his and others lives forever.)

A Carriage Ride on New Year's Eve 2009

2010-01-01T20:04:00.000-08:00

Two days before the end of 2009 I was going through some 'saved' memories and came across a white envelope with my name on it written in Larry's handwriting.

When I opened it, I found the card and money shown here. There is no date on it, but he and I figure it is about 10 years old. That's how long it has been since Larry has used those cards to write notes to me. Neither of us know why the money was still there, but I decided right then, on the spur of the moment, to plan a date doing something we'd never done before. It only took a moment before I thought of a carriage ride on Temple Square.

Checking the web site, I found that the price for a ride during the Christmas season was $50 ~ it was meant to be!

Since 4 could ride for the same price as two, and neither Larry and I were in the romantic mood, I decided to ask another couple to join us.

First I asked my mother. I don't think she's ever been on a carriage ride and I wanted to thank her for all the hours she has spent at my house for the last several months, helping me in so many little (and big) ways. I called her and explained what we were doing, but sadly, she didn't feel up to it.

I called Niki next. I love sharing things like this with my kids. I'd already asked Bryson and he'd said, "No offense mom, but it doesn't sound like a lot of fun as a single guy going on a carriage ride with married people."

Christopher and Bri were in California and I knew Dustin was working. It turned out Niki and John could go the next night, which was New Year's Eve. I was so excited!!

I asked Bryson to come downtown with us, even though he wouldn't be riding, so he could roam Temple Square and other celebration locations with us, and he agreed, so off the 5 of us went.
It was a beautiful night for a ride ~ not too cold, a clear sky but no wind. Our first stop
after parking was to the pick-up spot at the South Gates on Temple Square, since it was a first-come-first-served basis for the rides. I was in my wheelchair, of course, all bundled up snug and warm.

When our driver came, Larry asked if all 5 of us could ride and the driver said, "Sure, no problem." ~ what a great attitude, what a
great guy! Bryson still didn't want to come, but he was a good sport about it.

It was beautiful, as you'll see on the video. And so fun to hear the clip-clop of the horses hooves.

Afterward, we did wander around Temple Square for a bit, looking at all there is to see there. We even went inside the South Visitor's Center and the Joseph Smith Memorial Building and partook of some of their activities there.

We stopped to take a group picture in front of this tree, and just as a friendly volunteer pushed the button to take the picture, the darling, oblivious young man you see walked right in front of us and
just kept on going, even after the flash went off. We all started laughing. We took a couple of pictures at the tree, but when we got home and looked at them, this was the only one that wasn't fuzzy. We still laugh when we look at this picture, so I decided to include it in our post, even though we have no clue who our "new" family member is.

It was the perfect way to get the New Year's Eve celebration started! And it all started with Larry's gift from many Christmas' ago.

I made this (4 minute) video from the clips we took during the ride. Hope you enjoy it!

Family: Isn't it about time??!!!

Driving Lessons with Bryson

2009-12-26T22:44:00.000-08:00

Bryson has his learner's permit for driving now, he's actually had it for a while - the kids can get it when they turn 15. I was primarily the one who took the older 3 kids out to practice driving when they had their learner's, so I excited to be able to go out with Bryson. This picture was taken the first and last day I took him out on the road. We'd already spent time during earlier days practicing in the parking lot and neighborhood. Bryson did such a good job. I was impressed with his calmness. H really is and will be a good driver.

It isn't his driving at all that causes me to stop driving with him. It's my heart. I wasn't really nervous driving with him, but because he's just learning and I was the one teaching him, I had extra adrenaline flowing in my veins - and that made my heart stress out. It calmed down easily once we came home and I was able to take my meds, but there isn't any reason to stress my heart when I can prevent it.

(I don't know why that first line is underlined, and can't figure out to to take it off - oh well. haha)

Christmas 2009

2009-12-26T22:21:00.000-08:00

Bryson putting ornaments on the tree.

Cathi unwrapping bells and ornaments for Bryson to put on display.

Our Christmas animal collection.

My Christmas Village.

Just before turning out the lights on Christmas Eve.

Bryson's excited to open his gifts.

Larry laughing because Cathi gave him the exact same music CD last year: C.W. McCall's Greatest Hits - and he still hasn't listened to the first one! (Maybe that's why she didn't remember giving it to him.)

Cathi got a bird feeder that will hang from her bedroom window.

Larry opening his book of letters.....

and realizing what it was.

Bryson gave Larry a gift certificate to Weapon Blender, so Larry could get his own airsoft gun and join Bryson in using them.

Niki Got a Haircut

2009-12-23T22:38:00.000-08:00

She said she was still getting used to it - it had only been a couple of hours by the time this picture was taken.

John said he thought it looked great! (Smart man!)

"Smile, You're on Candid Camera"

2009-12-23T22:36:00.000-08:00

Random.....

Ya.....I know :)

Beware the Wrath of the Children Grown-Up!

2009-12-17T09:15:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, all of our kids happened to be at home on a single day, though not at the same time. It also happened that these boxes of cereal were sitting on the counter top in the kitchen. TWO of our four kids, at separate times said, in almost angry, accusing tones of voices, "Since when did you start buying boxed cereal??"

Larry and I laughed and laughed and laughed. Obviously we seriously deprived our children of something very valuable when we only bought "bagged" cereal during their young, tender years.

So, to our 'concerned" children who will remain anonymous, (hee, hee):
We bought the corn pops so I could eat them when everyone else is eating popcorn. (I don't like have pieces stuck between my teeth.) The crisped rice is left over from rice krispie treat making; the two chex cereals are there because I LIKE chex cereal - and I like to mix wheat and corn together. The frosted flakes and blueberry frosted mini-wheats were only $1.25 a box and we bought them to take on our Oregon trip.
And they were all on the counter top because G&G Chipman had spent the night and we'd gotten them out as possibilities for their breakfast and they hadn't been put away.

Are we forgiven yet?

Hahaha - I hope you've had fun reading this. I've certainly had fun teasing and poking you all a little. Love you tons!!! Mom :-)

Bryson's Solo in "Miracle on 34th Street"

2009-12-16T09:43:00.000-08:00

There was a pre-show act for "Miracle on 34th Street", the play Dustin and Bryson were just in. They had various groups sing Christmas carols to help create the right mood for the play. One of the pieces was a young man, dressed as a soldier, singing "I'll Be Home for Christmas". The person who was originally singing the solo had to miss two performances and the play director asked Bryson to fill in.

They included this song because that was the era the play took place in, but it seems equally as fitting for our holidays this year as well.

Bryson did such a great job!

Dustin is standing on the floor below Bryson, slightly to the left, next to the lady in the green coat. He is easier to recognize once he turns around and puts his black dress hat back on.

Enjoy!

The Many Faces of Bryson in "Miracle on 34th Street"

2009-12-15T09:29:00.000-08:00

Newsie calling out the headlines.

Full view as a Newsie

A member of the Macy's Annual Christmas Parade Band

Caroler

Macy's toy department store employee

The Many Faces of Dustin in "Miracle on 34th Street"

2009-12-14T21:15:00.000-08:00

Santa's Helper

Health Care worker caring for Kris Kringle

Radio D.J.

Court Bailiff

Juggler in the Macy's Christmas Day Parade, and yes, he rally does know how to juggle. That is his own costume and set of juggling balls.

As a Father

Snuck this one in on a time warp...

2009-12-12T20:51:00.001-08:00

Doors locked, Engine Running...

Yeah, I'm just that good. B-) , haha

Group Date to "Miracle on 34th Street"

2009-12-10T12:29:00.000-08:00

Dustin and Bryson are both in our city's Christmas production of "Miracle on 34th Street". The evening after Thanksgiving was "Family Night" as well as the final dress rehearsal for the cast. It was especially fun to attend with so many wonderful family members. And the play was delightful!

Ice on the Bathroom Window

2009-12-09T12:26:00.000-08:00

This is what we found when we woke up this morning. Part of this is because we need new windows, which have been ordered and might be here next week. The other reason there is so much ice is because this is the master bathroom, and we run a vaporizer all night in our bedroom to help my nose from getting too dry.

A view from our front door this morning...

2009-12-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

For a contrasting view see A view from our front door this afternoon

Congratulations to Robert on his Externship!

2009-12-05T19:37:00.000-08:00

Robert Stratford is Cathi's brother-in-law on her dad''s side. He was just awarded this outstanding externship in Hong Kong, a city both he and Lynda love.
Congratulations!!! We are so excited for you!!!

Announcing the 2010 ICLRS Student Research Fellows

The International Center for Law and Religion Studies announces the Student Research Fellows for 2010,
and the locations of their summer externship assignments.

Keith Barlow – Salt Lake City, Utah
Heath Becker – Guatemala City, Guatemala
Kristina Hardy – Mexico City, Mexico
Bryan Holm – Auckland, New Zealand
George Monsivais – Salt Lake City, Utah
Rebecca Nelson – Lima, Peru
Lori Olsen – Johannesburg, South Africa
Julie Slater – Accra, Ghana
Robert Stratford – Hong Kong, China
Jordan Teuscher – Kiev, Ukraine
Adam Thompson – Auckland, New Zealand
Elizabeth Willian – Frankfurt, Germany
M. Preston Gardner – São Paulo, Brazil

The Student Research Fellows Program provides an opportunity for law students to combine an international externship with significant research and writing in the area of freedom of religion or belief. The Center congratulates the outstanding students who have been selected this year and looks forward to the contributions of these fine young scholars to our ongoing work, worldwide and here at the J. Reuben Clark Law School.

Chipman Family Newletter and Collage 2009

2009-12-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

December 2009
Dear Friends and Family,

How grateful we are for this wonderful season of the year. It is a time to reflect on the life and teachings of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It is a time to more fully focus on the many blessings we have been given. And, thankfully, it is a time that creates a desire to reach out and connect with those we love, but may not often see.
It’s been a couple of years since we sent out a family newsletter and there have been several changes in our family. We hope you enjoy reading about them.
Dustin lives in an apartment in Murray, not far from us. He earned his Associate Degree in General Education in 2007 and plans to return to full-time school in the near future. He works as a trainer and quality assurance staff member for the courier department of IHC. He has organized several social events at work, including softball teams and fantasy sports leagues. He also enjoys reading and playing video games.
Christopher married Briana Beatse on December 27, 2008 in the Mt. Timpanogos Temple. “Bri” brings many new talents to our family and we enjoy having her in our family. She will graduate from BYU in December 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts Education. Christopher plans to graduate from BYU in April 2012 with a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering and Technologies. They enjoy live theater and playing board games.
Niki married John Adams on September 12, 2009, also in the Mt. Timpanogos Temple. John also brings new talents and we feel blessed to have him in our family. John and Niki live in Orem and are both working full-time, saving money for school. Niki has completed 1 1/2 of 4 years in her American Sign Language Interpretation and Deaf Studies program and currently works in the bakery department at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center. John works as an assembly technician at Traco Manufacturing. They enjoy walks in the park and cooking together.
Bryson, 15, is a sophomore at West Jordan High school and enjoys almost every minute of it. He loves soccer: is the keeper (goalie) on both a community competitive team and his high school team; his favorite professional team is Liverpool (England), followed closely by ReAL Salt Lake. He also loves all things World War II and anything having to do with the Marine Corp. We are grateful for all the help he gives us at home and are especially grateful he is still at home. We are not ready to be empty-nesters!!
Cathi is happy to be at home and enjoys spending time with family and friends. Although her health is slowly declining due to side effects of systemic scleroderma, she continues to be as active as possible. She loves to participate in book club; family gatherings; and create picture books and other memories for her children and extended family. The greatest blessings in her life are the gospel; Larry and their 6 children; the many family and friends who provide assistance and bring her joy; and her new support team, Rocky Mountain Hospice. She serves as ward website chairman and ward historian.
Larry is THE MAN!!! He is the one who keeps us all going. He is Manager of the Refuse Collection Department of Salt Lake County; does all of the shopping, cooking, cleaning, laundry and redecorating of our home; as well as giving loving, compassionate care to Cathi; and serves as High Priest Group Leader in our ward. When he actually has a few minutes to himself, he enjoys watching movies, hiking to waterfalls and photography.
The newest member of our family hasn’t formally arrived yet. Christopher and Bri are expecting their first child, and thus our first grandchild, the middle of May 2010. We’re going to be GRANDPARENTS!!! Of a sweet, precious angel who, even as we write and read this, is in the presence of our Father in Heaven and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Which brings us back to the beginning: We stand as witnesses that Our Father in Heaven and His Son, Jesus Christ live. More importantly, we know They Love us – and you. We know this because the Spirit has testified of these realities to us many times.
May you feel Their Love and Our Love with you this Christmas season and always.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Doors locked, engine running....

2009-11-28T20:42:00.000-08:00

Family to the rescue!!!

N had that split-second-too-late-gut-wrenching feeling when the door clicked shut just as she realized her keys were still in the ignition. J couldn't be contacted by phone, so Dad and brothers worked for 30+ minutes diligently...and won!

Brothers and Dads...we love 'em more and more every day!

A view from our front door this afternoon

2009-10-25T21:06:00.000-07:00

For a contrasting view see A view from our from our front door this morning

Celebrating Dad Chipman's birthday

2009-09-15T20:51:00.000-07:00

Some of Larry's siblings got together to celebrate Dad Chipman's birthday. Dad's 2nd wife, VK, organized it. She's really wonderful about things like that.

On the left are T and KL, and V. KL is Larry's only sister. V is married to Larry's oldest brother, R, who sadly, had to work that night.

On the left is VK and Dad, L and I.

Not pictures are Larry's younger brothers: DD, who also had to work that night; and DM and B, who live out of state.

One interesting note: Dad's 2nd wife, VK, is the mother of T (husband of KL, Larry's only sister). Did you follow that one? So KL's mother-in-law is now also her step-mother. Dad and VK decided that since their own spouses had passed on, they could keep each other company for the duration of earth life. We're glad they have each other.

John & Niki ~ Together Forever (movie)

2009-09-13T14:23:00.000-07:00

John's and Niki's wedding day was peaceful, beautiful and fun! Here's a short (10 minute) movie that gives an overview of the major events.

Bri's a Star!!! Suessical the Musical

2009-08-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

Briana was "Sour Kangaroo" in "Seussical the Musical" presented by the Sandy Outdoor Theater at the end of August. She was wonderful! She had just the right voice and great character movements!

Christopher, Briana, Niki, Lynae, Cathi in front

I wish we had a picture of her 'baby' kangaroo, who also was a great actress.

Here's a few pictures from one of the nights we attended. Just before this picture was taken, a little girl asked for Bri's autograph. That was fun!!

This was closing night and Bri had already receieved several bouquets, so instead of flowers, Christopher surprised her with a copy of "Somewhere in Time".

Niki and John Engagement Photo Slide Show

2009-08-15T09:04:00.000-07:00

Too close to Call!

2009-08-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

Who wins??? You decide and let us know :-)

Random July and August pics

2009-08-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Bryson participated in two soccer camps in July. The first was a ReAL camp, 5 days long - 2 hours a day and was held at Churchill Junior High.

He also attended a week-long BYU resident soccer camp.

Christopher had fun using his engineer skills to build this Lincoln log tower, and then allowed Jason the honor of "blowing it up"!

Announcement!!!!!

2009-07-01T12:42:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I'd thought I'd let you all know that I'm engaged! My
fiance's name is John Adams. I met him through work. We're getting
married in the Timpanogos Temple. We're not quite sure of the date yet
but we'll let you know :).

A little bit about John. He grew up in Kaysville and is starting
school this fall at UVU going into mechanics. He's a great guy and I'm
excited for you all to get to know him :). Just thought I'd share my
good news with all of you.

Love you all!
Niki

Originally sent as an email from Niki

Random Photos for May and June '09

2009-06-30T19:13:00.000-07:00

It must have been funny, whatever it was!

Ostrich anyone?

Zoboomafoo Bryson!

Bryson and Cathi had a date to go see "Treasure Island" at Hale Center Theatre. Bryson had given Cathi the tickets as part of her birthday present. Cathi gave Grandma Lynn a ticket for her Mother's Day present, and Larry and Cathi gave Dustin a ticket as part of his birthday present. It was an evening of laughter and fun.

An exchange for an exchange...

On Mother's Day, Cathi received two copies of "Fiddler on the Roof", so she exchanged one for a copy of "The Sound of Music", which she had forgotten she had received the year before. Sio that was exchanged for "Somewhere in Time" and it arrived in the same box that Larry's Father's Day DVDs arrived in.

A moonlit view from our front porch.

Celebrating Dustin's B-day and Father's Day

2009-06-19T22:10:00.000-07:00

Dustin's birthday, June 17th, is frequently close to Father's Day, so we occasionally celebrate the two at the same time.

We started out the evening with Dustin's dinner request: KFC fried chicken, homemade mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, and biscuits.

Grandma and Grandpa Lynn came by for a few minutes after dinner, bearing plates of homemade candy (which disappeared quickly!), and additional pages to add to the scrapbooks she has given us in past years. We really enjoyed their visit.

Then we all went to see the movie "UP". It was a cute movie, and one you should see with someone you love.

Afterwards, we went back to the house for presents and dessert.
In keeping with our family tradition, Dustin is looking for one of his gifts, which is wrapped in newpaper, and hidden in the recycle box. He is being guided by "hot and cold" statements from the person who hid it. He also found them hidden in potted plants, the hall closet and somewhere in the front room, I think.
"This isn't what I thought it was, but I like it."

He thought it was a bread maker, which he had requested, but it turned out to be a wok, which he had also requested.

He also got a game, a movie, a pizza pan and cash (always a welcome gift).

Larry also had to go on a "hot and cold" hunt for his Father's Day gifts.

His wish list consisted of a long list of DVDs he wanted to add to his collection - and he got what he wanted. He was a happy guy!

Once all the gifts were done, we celebrated with rootbeer and orange soda floats and freezes.

It was a fun night for everyone!

Happy Birthday, Dustin!
Happy Father's Day, Larry!

A Change of Seasons

2009-06-05T15:28:00.000-07:00

Where have the days gone? It seems that only yesterday I was standing in line with Dustin, waiting for him to begin his first day of kindergarten. Now we are finishing our last days of middle school with Bryson. Only 3 years of high school and all of our children will have finished their public education. It doesn't seem possible! I don't feel old enough to have all my children grown and on their own (almost).

I've said many times, "It's a good things mothers can't decide when their children grow up. We would have them jerky through time so unevenly. Stay little and precious for too long, race through the trying toddler years, stop, start, grow, stop growing. What wisdom their is in having one day follow another. Some days it is so hard to let the peace and joy and celebration go. Other days we don't think we can possible live through the first hour of the day - let alone the hours that follow."

These are a few random pictures of Bryson's last days in middle school.

Bryson was the Vice-President of the National Junior Honor Society at West Jordan Middle School. In mid-May, part of his responsibility included the induction ceremony of the newest NJHS members. This first picture is of his all decked out after that event.

"The Boyzz in the Band"

Then, of course, we attended the final band concert of his middle school career. Dustin, Christopher and Niki also played band during middle school. Dustin choose to take other classes beginning his 8th grade year. Christopher and Niki took band all the way through high school, including AP Music Theory - for which they both earned college credit. Bryson is focusing on computers in high school and would love to take band as well, but doesn't have enough hours in the day to fit it all in.

All of our kids participated in car pool for the three years they were in middle school, then took the bus to the high school.

Bryson's car pool group was pretty much the same kids all three years, or at least the same families. This picture was taken on the last day they all attended West Jordan.

And of course, any reason to celebrate is a Great Reason for ice cream!!!

Congratulations on a job well done!!!

Memorial Day '09

2009-05-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the week, Larry and I thought there would just be the two of us and Bryson at home for Memorial Day, so Larry planned to get a few projects done around the house.

As the week went on and week talked with the kids, inviting them one by one to come over for a BBQ, we found they were all available. Yay!

It turned out to be quite a productive day.

Larry went to a local nursery and bought plants and flowers for our gardens.

Christopher got the oil changed in their car while Bri was able to finish up some homework.

Niki and John (Niki's friend) went with us to Sam's Club to get food for the grill. While we were there, John volunteered to grill salmon for us - a new experience since most of us had never had salmon, and none of knew how to grill it.

Chris and Bri started the flower planting in the front yard. Then Dustin came along and pointed out the huge spider - complete with egg sack. That made everyone stand back for a second and watch where it went.

I loved finding these summer colors on the front porch!

While the front flower garden was taking shape, Larry, John, Niki, Dustin and Bryson were also planting the vegetables in the back garden.

Then the grillin' started! Yum! Besides the salmon we also had steak and chicken.

But it was the company of loved ones that brought the most joy of all!

Happy 27th Anniversary to Us!

2009-05-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

27 years...a long time for some. Barely half way for others.

What an adventure it has been.

And the best adventures are those you take with your best friend, for which we are both very grateful!

We're even more grateful, however, to know that 27 years is just the beginning of eternity!

Celebrating the anniversary of our wedding day - May 14th, 1982 - at Madeline's Steak House.

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day was perfect this year! I couldn't have asked for anything more (except that Niki, who had to work, could have joined us).

Larry, Bryson and I spent time together before church doing our family council and weekly calendaring session. Larry also gave me a mini pedicure. Normally this isn't something we would do on a Sunday, but it was a sweet treat today!

Church was lovely, the Spirit was present. Sacrament meeting was packed because David Guzman was giving his last talk prior to leaving on his mission. The Bishopric gave all the sisters in the ward some chocolate turtles - absolutely delicious!!

After church Dustin, Chris and Bri and, of course, Larry, Bryson and I, spent the evening together. We barbequed pork chops, steak and halibut for me. It was the first time Larry had ever bbq'd halibut, and he got it exactly right! He also made me a beautiful and yummy fresh fruit salsa to go over it. He ended up making a 2nd batch because the red pepper flakes in the first batch made it just a bit too spicy for me (as in flames were shooting from my ears - hahaha). The 2nd batch was just right! We also bbq'd fresh pineapple. (I wish we had taken a picture! I've lost my camera (so sad about that) and so I don't think about pictures as readily now.)

The weather was sunny and calm. We ate on the deck with the umbrella up. What a treat!

Afterwards we opened gifts - a dozen red roses (wish I had a picture again - sigh), a gift card to Deseret Book and a dvd "Phantom of the Opera".

For Home Evening, we asked Chris and Bri to choose a question from the journal jar, and we took turns answering it. The question was, "When, where and how did you learn to drive? Share any driving related stories you might have." That was a lot of fun.

Then we played "Ticket to Ride", a board game, and ate New York cheesecake with fresh strawberries and sauce. I had the longest train in the game, but Larry completed the most trips, so he won.

Spending time together was the best gift of all. I love my talented, beautiful family! Thanks for creating the "Perfect Mother's Day" for me!

Slow Dancin'

2009-03-24T19:21:00.001-07:00

A couple of nights ago, just before bed, we were listening to "Love Songs" on the radio - not something we usually do, but it was fun.

The radio program allows listeners to call in make requests and dedications. One lady called dedicated "Unchained Melody" to her husband, whom she fell in love with in high school. She had special memories of dancing barefoot with him to that song. Before "Deliliah", the radio personality, played the song, she said, "Turn down the lights, go get your hubby and re-create those memories."

I jokingly said to Larry, "You should follow her advice."

And to my happy surprise, he did. Bryson snapped a picture so we can keep the memory fresh.

Aren't spontaneous acts of love perfect?!

(One funny note: We were doing the old-fashioned slow dancing, where you basically just spin slowly in a circle. About 2/3's of the way through the song, we had to start spinning the other direction because my oxygen tubing had wrapped around our legs, making it difficult to keep going. )

Happy Birthday and Congratulations!

2009-03-05T19:05:00.000-08:00

Happy 15th Birthday, Bryson!!!

What a terrific young man he is! He excels in almost everything he decides he is going to do. He is heavily involved in school, has completed his Eagle project, is looking forward to earning his last few merit badges and getting his driver's permit. He's thrilled that he keeps growing! When we measured him on his birthday, he was 5 feet 9 1/2 inches tall - still trying to catch and pass those older brothers.

Of course, the one thing that keeps him sane throughout his busy life - the thing he really has passion for is SOCCER!!!!

And that's what the congratulations are for: the day after his birthday, he found out he had made the high school soccer team - as keeper - just what he wanted! I don't think he could have gotten a better birthday present! (We tried to top that - by taking him to Golden Corral, his favorite restaurant, for his birthday - but I think making the team still won out.)

We love you, Bryson. Have a wonderful year!

A Father's Love

2009-02-16T15:03:00.000-08:00

What else can we say? All is right with the world!

Family Formal Dinner 2009

2009-02-16T14:58:00.001-08:00

We started a family tradition several years ago that has become known as the Family Formal Dinner.

Everyone helps out with the set-up,

meal preparation and clean up.

Niki was in charge of organizing it this and did a great job!

Hugs and Heart Attacks

2009-02-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago we had a surprise visit from some dear friends, Kent and Sharon Bateman. It was so fun to spend a few moments with them.

As they were leaving, the doorbell rang, and Kent - always the one for fun - decided to answer it for us. We were all surprised, and I think Kent was a little disappointed, when there was no one there.

On closer inspection however, we realized that we had been given a 'heart attack'. Our front lawn was covered in hand-decorated paper hearts and there were more hearts on the doorstep, along with yummy cookies.

What a treat! We feel so loved!

Monday Memories - Brotherly Bonding

2009-02-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

The Challenge...

Oh yeah!...I'll take you on!

The Head Lock

Now that's a close shave!

The Safety Roll

Slide and Drop

Resistance is Futile!

The Pin!!!

You'll notice that life pretty much goes on without disruption while we witness this display of brotherly love. These boys bring lots of energy with them - and I love it...most of the time :-)

(May 2007)

Monday Memories

2009-01-26T19:28:00.000-08:00

I've noticed on a couple of other blogger friends (thanks Melissa) use Mondays to catch up on Memories for their blogs. I think it's a great idea - so here's a walk down memory lane:

Niki

Niki has always loved working alongside her dad, and now she's learned enough to do it while he offers support - what a woman!

Somehow, even with her hands and face smudged, she managed to keep the white tips of her nails clean

These pictures were taken December 2008

2008: A Year in Review

2009-01-03T15:05:00.001-08:00

There were lots of changes and memory making events in our family in 2008.
Here are some of them:

Family
Christopher and Briana's wedding
Our trip to Disneyland in March (Larry, Cathi, Dustin, Bryson)
Nicolas - our foreign exchange student from France

Larry
Promotion to Manager of Refuse Collection for Salt Lake County Sanitation
Released as 1st Counselor in Bishopric
Called and sustained as High Priest Group Leader
Remodel of Master Bath and Bedroom - right down to the studs
Repainted Laundry Room
Purchase of new dishwasher, washer and dryer

Cathi
Going on dates to the plays at Hale Center with Larry and each of my kids.
4 hospitalizations in one year (after years with none)

Dustin
Moved home after ending his engagement to Emily
Moved to his own apartment in Murray
Promoted to 'Dispatch' and then 'Trainer' at IHC courier department
Beginning school at Weber (Jan 2009) - "Criminal Justice and Forensics"

Christopher
Married Briana Beatse on December 27, 2008
Became 'pepper spray' certified
Continued schooling at BYU
Switched major from mechanical engineering to manufacturing engineering
Continued employment as security guard at BYU Harold B. Lee Library and IHC courier
Served as ward activity chairperson
Moved twice

Briana
Married Christopher
Got to go to London to do study abroad over the summer
Continued education at BYU - Drama Education Major
Moved twice

Niki
Turned 20!!!
Continued schooling at UVU - majoring in Sign Language Interpretation and Deaf Culture
Moved apartments (they turned her 1st apartment into married student or men's housing)
Continued employment at IHC
Switched IHC departments from food prep to housekeeping in the nutrition offices
Highlighted her hair red
Pierced her ears
New clothes style, new makeup - blossomed!
Had both previous employers (IHC and Salt Lake County) say they HAVE to have her work
for them during the summer - they can't live without her. So...she worked long crazy hours for
both of them.

Bryson
Soccer!!!! Bryson has said several times that soccer is what keeps him sane. He plays year round
- indoor (winter) and outdoor (spring, summer, fall)
4.0 GPA for 1st quarter of 9th grade
Finished 8th grade as an SBO officer and Secretary of the SBO organization
Started 9th grade as a member and officer of National Junior Honor Society
Completed Operation DPC (Dry Pack Canning) - His Eagle Scout Project
Decided on his own to apply for a 'sweeper' position at Heartland Elementary - and got it.
Received "Excellent" for his duet festival and "Superior" for his concerto festival

New Year's Game Fun

2009-01-03T14:44:00.000-08:00

We love to play games at our house and getting a new game - or games - at Christmas is traditional.

Here we are playing an old favorite - Pictionary. It is only 'old' in the sense that we've owned it for a while. I don't think we've played it in years - but we really enjoyed it this time.

And the new 'favorite' for this year is Bananagrams - which is a kind of speed Scrabble. Larry gave it to Cathi. (Dustin was also with us for the game session, but got away before we snapped the picture. Chris and Bri were on their honeymoon cruise.)

In this game, everyone creates their own interlocking words with their own set of tiles, and when needed, takes new tiles from the center 'bunch'.

We've played it several times already and look forward to many more rounds of 'splitting' and 'peeling'.

We'd love to have you join us for a round or two!

Introducing the newest Mr. and Mrs. Chipman

2008-12-27T21:27:00.000-08:00

It was a beautiful day, filled with memory making moments. Aren't they a handsome couple?

Christmas Day Memories 2008

2008-12-26T13:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day Memories 2008 part 2

2008-12-26T10:23:00.000-08:00

Several years ago, Dustin gave Niki a box filled with 'extras', along with her regular Christmas gift. Those 'extras' have now become part of the Chipman family tradition, with a new person getting them each year. This year it was Christopher and Bri's turn.

Bryson's 9th Grade Science Fair Project

2008-12-20T16:10:00.001-08:00

Bryson's 9th grade science fair project was on whether or not the location of the weights on a pinewood derby car would affect the speed of the car during the race.

He made a new pinewood derby car, made arrangements for Officer Jewkes from the West Jordan Police Department to come and test the speed with the laser gun, set up the track and ran the tests. As far as they could tell...the location of the weights didn't make any difference at all.

Bryson's Christmas Concert 2008

2008-12-11T21:10:00.000-08:00

Here's a (2:30) clip of Bryson playing one of the songs at his Christmas Concert 2008. Hope you enjoy it.

Bri's Birthday Party

2008-12-10T15:46:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Bri's birthday, which is really on
December 4th, on December 6th. We have a tradition of hiding the birthday presents and then giving "hot and cold" clues to the birthday person as they go in search of their gifts.

Happy Birthday, Bri!

Bryson's Eagle Project: Operation DPC (Dry Pack Canning)

2008-11-20T11:06:00.001-08:00

Lion of the Quarter

2008-11-20T10:48:00.001-08:00

We received a phone call from one of Bryson's teachers a couple of weeks ago, telling us he had been selected as Lion of the Quarter at his school for the 1st quarter of his 9th grade year.

Lion of the Quarter students are nominated by the teachers as students who truly represent the values of the school. After the nominations are in, the teachers vote to determine the actual recipients. Four times a year, 6 students from each grade are given this award - so a total of 72 students per grade for the entire time they are at the school. It is a great honor.

As an officer of National Junior Honor Society, Bryson also had the opportunity to present the awards for the 8th grade.

Happy Birthday, Niki!

2008-11-11T22:52:00.001-08:00

Isn't She Lovely?
(by Stevie Wonder)

Isn't she lovely
Isn't she wonderful
Isn't she precious
Less than one minute old
I never thought through love we'd be
Making one as lovely as she
But isn't she lovely made from love

Isn't she pretty
Truly the angel's best
Boy, I'm so happy
We have been heaven blessed
I can't believe what God has done
through us he's given life to one
But isn't she lovely made from love.
~~~~~
We truly are blessed to have one as lovely - physically and in every other way - as Niki is!

Happy Birthday, Niki!!

Love, Your Family

Family Scripture Reading

2008-10-16T23:44:00.001-07:00

Family Scripture Reading....

College Age Style....

Halloween Fun

2008-10-15T23:10:00.001-07:00

Take one fun-loving talented man and add one small seedless watermelon.

After removing dark green portion of the watermelon rind, cut a small portion off the bottom of the watermelon, providing a flat resting surface.

Using a sharp knife, begin cutting designs in the watermelon.

Try to replicate the tucks and folds of a human brain.

Remove all unnecessary parts.

Celebrate with a spooky grin.

Shrink wrap - to prevent some-timers from setting in.

Take to potluck.

Perform lobotomy as needed and desired.

Thanks Dustin, for being such a creative genius!

Trying Tilapia

2008-10-14T07:21:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, when I was at Sunflower Market, they had tilapia there for a really good price. So I decided to be adventurous and get some. Then I went to Macey's to get some seasonings. I got some lemon pepper because I've had fish with that on it before and really like it. I also asked the people at the meat counter what they suggested and they recommended Spade L Ranch: Fish and Seafood Seasoning. So on Sunday, I cooked up both fish, each one with a different seasoning. The fish on left is the one with the lemon pepper and the fish on the right has the seafood seaoning. I put too much lemon pepper on the one fish so I didn't particularly care for that one and it didn't completely cover the fishy taste. But the fish with the seafood seasoning, on the right, was absolutely amazing!!! It was so good! So I have to buy some more tilapia and maybe some day I'll be adventurous again and try another kind of fish.

Christopher and Briana

2008-10-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Surprise!!

2008-10-08T15:34:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody,

I have some exciting news to share. I'm engaged! My fiance's name is Briana Beatse (pronounced "bri-on-a" not "bri-anna" and Beatse is said "bates").

We're getting married Dec. 27th in the Timpanogos temple. I just wanted to share some of my excitement with you.

Enjoy,

Christopher

(Originally sent by Christopher via e-mail.)

Trying Out for Something New

2008-09-16T17:39:00.000-07:00

Bryson and Dustin both completed auditions for A Christmas Carol at Hale Center Theatre last Saturday. Neither one of them received a call back, so they won't be in the show this year, but I think it's wonderful they were willing to try out. The photos above were their 'head shots' which are required when you audition at Hale.

And We're Off!

2008-09-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

Welcome! So glad to see you....

We decided it was time to create a 'family sharing place', where we can keep each other up-to-date on our lives. We hope our extended family and friends will drop by and visit once in a while too.