Another Year Older for Our Brandon

Heavenly Father knew what this family needed as the "oldest child" when he sent Brandon Jason. Today is Brandon's birthday and he a whopping 29 years young. Brandon has always been the one to keep excitement and laughter a part of this family. His laughter is highly contagious. He certainly fills the role of his "big brother" and "oldest child" responsibility and always was such a help and don't know what I would have done without him. One is always the better after spending time with him. Brandon came into this life caring, loving and a most compassionate soul. I am not surprised with the occupation he chose - for that is BRANDON!

Not only was Brandon such a help and joy, but some of the other things he loved; Brandon loved to rope, he always will work like a man , he was and still is, full of energy (mischieveous and playful), he loves the stories of history, family history, church history and US history. He remembers ....with everthing that word means....he remembers! He knows where he came from, he remembers people and their cares, he remembers his Father in Heaven and His Son. He remembers, "when ye have done it unto the least of these...ye have done it unto me".

In May he gave us all another happy moment when he included Marcy into the family. Thank you Brandon for all that you do for each of us and wish you the best day and many many more to come. Happy Birthday to YOU!

Happy Birthday Alena Janae - 19 Today!

Today is Alena's Special Day - you're #1 in the Skinner's Book.

From Arizona to BYU - Idaho.....Happy Birthday to our SWEET / HAPPY little Alena. There is so much that can be said of Alena. She answers to many nicknames; Ali, Alikins, Lena, Leaner, and Brandon had a couple for her. °Ü° .........It doesn't matter what name you call her, she answers with a SMILE. Alena always is known for her smiles. And she never takes a bad pictures. She is so photogenic...she never has a bad picture.

That's because you can't hide wonderful, you can't hide beautiful.

If it weren't for Alena's insisting and teaching, The Skinner's would not each have their own blogspot. This was one of her project that she foresaw, being a link to one another and insisted we each participate. Thanks to Alena for that!
She is such a caring, giving, sweet, loves to laugh and I will emphasize sharing. It is very evident Alena loves each one of the family - and we love you back sis.

There are very few pictures of Alena by herself, she shares her pictures with her baby sister.

We each send a HUG!

Mother's Weekend @ BYU Idaho

Saturday, Karen, Hannah and Dalen picked me up at the SLC Airport. Off we went in the wind and snow to Rexburg. Hannah was a great driver and we had a fast trip as we chatted the whole way. After gathering all the families (Karen's and Alena/myself) we headed off to eat and shop. Karen had purchased tickets to Mother / Son Banquet - that was very nice. Nick had given an appreciation segment in the presentation. Karen was so excited she didn't get to listen to what he was saying. CUTE, CUTE!
Then we headed off to watch Alena in the International Dance Evening. Many cultures were represented during the activity. Alena danced with the Polonysian group. She had loads of fun. I hope she publishes her video. She REALLY dances - shake, shake, shake. Woohoo! We just all smiled and smiled - so proud of her.

After a late night with lots and lots of kids, finally got to bed. Sunday, Karen, Hannah, Krisjana, Nick, and Dalen, Alena and myself all attended church. Listening and enjoying a college ward was such a nice experience for me. There is such a spirit there. The weekend was so wonderful - I loved every minute.

Also wanted to show pictures of Nick in front of a huge poster. The pic on the poster is Nick himself posing for a Communication Symposium.

Happy Birthday #18 KenZ Jae

It's Sunday morning and snowing at BYU Idaho. Wishing you a long distance Happy Birthday! A couple things that I'm reminded of today.
I worked from Glendale on Friday, so Thursday night I drove up there. Late that night Kensey came in from somewhere with friends. It was fall break and she was trying to enjoy each moment. About 1:30am I woke up again to find Kensey's light still on. Thinking she was reading or something, I got up to find she had fallen asleep on her knees. It was the cutest thing ever. I woke her and she sleepily climbed up in bed.
Friday night she comes in late again from a friend giving her a birthday party. One gift was so cute I hope she tells about it but she had mentioned to a guy friend ask what she wanted for her birthday - her response was to sleep in and be a princess all day. He gave a tiara!
I am not with Kenz today due to Mother's Weekend at BYUI - but I called her early WOKE her up from what she desired most; SLEEP. Kensey is SO very busy - by design. She keeps an unbelievable schedule. Little doubt she will feel like a princess today - but I wanted her to know that is exactly what she really is...A daughter of Royal Birth and she has brought with her to this earth such majesty ...and to our family - what an honor. We love you KenZ and Wish you the best of another year.

Home of the Cowboys - Class of 1978 (30th Reunion)

First weekend in October the Class of 1978 celebrated our 30 year Reunion. Had THE best time. ENJOY a few pictures of the parade.

Baby Skinner Shower

Couple Saturday's ago (sorry been busy) we all went to St. David / Benson area for a shower for Jet and Brian-cito. Our baby boy will be warmed and loved with so many family members, friends and the many gifts. Enjoy the pictures of our day with Jet.

Happy Birthday to MARCY

Today is Marcy's Birthday - and I just want to tell Marcy how much we enjoy her laughter, smiles and all that she shares with us. I hope you have the BEST day ever and totally ENJOY. I am so thankful that Brandon found you or you found Brandon - either way, what a pleasure. This year when we go (if you can go) to TIME OUT you can say - this is MY FAMILY!!! Thanks for putting up with us and loving us anyway. LOVE YOU BACK.

Now I'll sing to you.....Happy Birthday to you ...Happy Birthday to you - Happy Birthday to Marcy - Happy Birthday to you. ....and MANY MORE!

Here is a card for everyone to sign / send to Marcy.

marcyskinner@yahoo.com

Send this eCard !

Week in Montana

Last Sunday through Thursday, 9/11, spent a week in the Butte / Anaconda Montana area at a National Summit of Mining Communities.

The presentations, visiting the town of Butte and the Berkely Pit were great but my favorite was the tour to Anaconda area by train. It is hard to tell by this picture, but this is an old turn table that is still used. I thought it was so cool I just had to have a pic

We saw the miles of reclamation projects the area is involved in and visited / had lunch at a tailings area reclaimed to a 18 hole golf course designed by Jack Nicholas (Old Works),

toured the townsite; took pictures in the historic Washoe Theater, Hearst Library, and my favorite time of the tour was visiting at close range THE largest smoke stack in the world. Times like this makes my job not a job.

Alena Arrives at BYUI

SHE'S BACK AT BYUI..........Last Friday, Alena and I flew / drove to SLC/Rexburg. After a full 2 days of packing and unpacking, shopping and making sure all was well, I came back late Saturday night leaving Alena to 4 cousins; Nick & Kristjana Howard (Karen's) and Ty & Tara Skinner (Randy's) and many friends / roommates. She was so excited to be back - how could I not be so happy for her. During the 6 week break, she was able to spend that time working with me, a memory I'll treasure forever. She accomplished so much; archiving boxes and boxes of files. She filled hundreds of boxes. Alena is a great worker and we very much appreciated the blessing it was. MAKE it a GREAT semester sis! We love you....."isn't she beautiful, isn't she wonderful". Yep she was already checking email and on the phone. She's at "home".

Happy Birthday to JET

HapPy BiRthDaY to you...Happy Birthday to you - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JET...happy birthday to YOU...and many more!
I've have scanned YouTube looking for a fun Happy Birthday wish, my connection is so slow and I just can't find anything worthy of you....I couldn't sleep without posting a birthday wish to Janette today though.
A few things about Jet....
Jet loves to laugh and is such a social person. She loves sports, action, life...she's creative, strong and articulate.
A couple memories of Jet...
The first time I met Janette was at a EA Football game. Jet's parents, Brian, Jet and her friend sat behind me and I listened as they talked about her friend on the football team that they drove all the way over just to watch, a pregnant girl and how darn cute she was, she spoke with her mom and dad, Brian....everyone around.
I especially remember laying on my bed talking to Jet on the phone for over an hour before she and Brian got married. She was so worried about how she spent her "wedding budget" and wanted to make the most of her choices. She included me in those plans.
I so enjoyed her staying with me a couple weeks while they got the fitness center up and running.
Finally, Finally (smile) she and Brian are giving me a little something special in return. Can hardly wait.

Jet here's wishing you a wonderful day. May your wishes come true!! THIS IS YOUR DAY - ENJOY!!

My Sister Turned 50 Sept. 1

Katharine Lea Stephenson Curtis - A Classy name for a classy lady. ... That's my sister! She's Katharine the Great! Kathy was always the peace maker in our home. She continues to take that role and many many others. Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother of 7, Grandma....she's a worker! Happy 50! Now this means I'm next...I'll cry with you and you can cry with me. Life is just turning way to fast. ENJOY!

Yesterday and Today -Class of 2009

Kensey is now a senior at Millennium High School. This is the first and last school picture that she will take. I cant believe how fast time goes by.

Wishing you a great year! go get em tiger!!

Happy 25th Birthday to Rusten

Rusten Kenneth Keime - August 3, 1983

Happy Birthday to you...Happy Birthday to you - Happy Birthday to Rusten - Happy Birthday to you...and many more!

Rusten wants the best for all; every day working hard to make it that way for anyone he associates with. Rusten is a hard worker, great father / husband, he likes to fix / tinker with things, enjoys every techno-game - loves the challenge and wants to share what he has learned, he's artistic and if he doesn't, he should sing in the choir. Most of all, Rusten loves spending time with his own little family - He is good to his brothers / sisters and Danae's family as well. Thank you for all you do to ensure the best for Danae, Tanner and Porter! ...Here's wishing you the Best.

August 3rd is your day! Happy 25th!

Week of Relaxation...

Special Thanks!

Wednesday, I took the day off to have an "it's great to be a female" out-patient procedure. All went well and just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated being thought of and pampered. Special thanks to Danae for all you do. A cute little story: I went to Danae's that morning to have Tanner run up to me, "Nana, why you sick"? ........Aren't little kids the greatest? I am catching up on all kinds of movies - which the kids will say, "you won't remember them tomorrow".......which maybe true - I'm not having any interruptions, so maybe I will remember what I've watched...life is good. SMILE ...Next week plan to spend some time at Rocky Point. I'm sure after next week I'll be ready to be back to work...but for now - I will enjoy the time off. I'm catching up on everyone's blogs - what a hoot...thanks to each of you. Enjoy reading about you and your family. Hope all is enjoying your summer!

Happy Birthday Brian K.

Thinking BACK of Brian - A few of my favorite thoughts:

Brian was just such a sweet, quiet and pretty little child. Always just had a Skinner grin. Cannot forget those lovely curls - head full of curls.
Brian loved being a cowboy. He worked hard and long with the men. He was a little man. First song to blurt out - no, not a primary song..."lonely woman ...". We decided we listened to country music way too much. After that they went to bed listening to "good music".
Brian always made funny faces. One minute serious, in his own little world, the next, wit.
Brian did not enjoy doing the dishes. Throw himself on the floor, hated dishes. Now he loves the kitchen.
Brian read his scriptures nightly, no matter what time. What an example of dedication and "True to God"
Brian loved history; church or nation. George Washington on his knees near his horse; a favorite picture. That says it all.
Brian respected and loved his parents, grandparents, and leaders. He demonstrated "Immediate Obedience"!


TODAY as I think of Brian - he is the same!



Brian Kent was born early Sunday morning, June 21st, a timely Father's Day gift. His name could have been John Thomas, but as I held him alone, the name Brian came to mind. His first prayers; he always said, "bless our blessings". Brian, you are a blessing.

As a mother, I say, Brian, you are still sweet, quiet and pretty! The curls are gone and the grins have turned to big smiles. You still love to sing, laugh, pray, read, obey and love life, share opinions and experiences of your life. I notice you desire immediate and continual best of self and truly want best for all you associate with. I love our talks and ....You truly are a blessing! -

Happy 27th Birthday Bubby!

Colorado

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Alena is ....Up, Up and Away

Alena came back for a couple days to say farewell to friends and FFA members for the last time as a 2008 MHS senior. Thursday evening we enjoyed participating in the FFA Banquet / Closing Ceremony at Millenium High School..."UP, UP and AWAY". Officers relinquished positions (Alena was Treasurer), awards were presented and senior slide shows were "ahh"ed over. A & K both received awards. Oh course Alena stole hearts with her huge smiles and giggles.

Tonight Kensey will receive in behalf of her sis, Alena's 4 year Seminary Graduation Certificate...4 years of early morning seminary. As she started in Morenci, the Sandoval's were so gracious to pick Alena up for almost 2 years. She returned the favor by driving and/or giving rides every day after that. She is so loved by her many friends. (and appreciated by many parents I'm sure).

The Bishop gave Alena her YW Recognition Award a few weeks ago but will be also recognized by the Stake later this summer. She is an example of goodness and happiness. Alena stands as a witness at all times and in all things and in all places. We are very proud of our little Miss Alena Janae. I cannot thank her enough for being such a wonderful big sister. Alena and Kensey compliment one another, when one is not bossy the other is.

As a baby Alena would laugh and I would laugh back, the more we laughed at each others laughs the more hysterical we became. Once she cried when someone told her she might be short like her mom. (and she hasn't grown much since). We are proud of you sis. Keep laughing and being an example of greatness; great daughter / sister, great student, great girl!

Brandon and Marcy

It's a done deal - Congratulations to Brandon and Marcy. They were married yesterday, Tuesday May 6th at the Salt Lake Temple. In spite of the distance many people traveled to witness the special day. Thanks to each of you for that. What a special time. Sunday each of the kids (except Alena - missed her) and families met in Glendale - love having the kids together! We all left Monday very early to fly together. Spent the day enjoying the sites of SLC. What a treat Monday night to have Alena meet up with us and so many meet at the Lion House for a family dinner - the Skinner and Player families! The weather could not have been more perfect Monday and Tuesday. The couple were married by J. Richard Clark of the Seventy...beautiful sealing. I am so appreciative (surprized and yet not surprized) to so many who traveled to share the day with Brandon and Marcy. The flight back to Phoenix was fun with Tanner as he loadly announced his excitement of his first flight experience; rows around just laughed. ..."here we go"....oh an airplane ride through the eyes, mind and excitment of a child. I couldn't help but remember when Brandon was that age and the excitement / love of life he enjoyed -...remember when! Brandon and Marcy, love and enjoy your lives as husband / wife, and best friends.

Thatcher at Playoffs

My nephew Wayne plays first base for the Thatcher Eagles. Last weekend the Thatcher team traveled to the valley to begin the playoffs. Had a great time watching Wayne and the Thatcher team. Thanks Wayne for the fun and also it was great fun having Darrell, Lori, Katie, Shannon and Jason up for the weekend. Thatcher won the first game and was edged out of the playoffs Saturday by Morenci. GREAT Family Time - Wayne graduates this year. It was fun to watch the Basketball and Baseball playoffs. Best Wishes to Wayne.

Appreciation Day

Several days out of the year a girl is given a special day to say "thank you for all you do". I am so thankful for the caring people I work with... The whole week was very much appreciated.

tears of joy - byui - alena

Alena has been delivered to BYU-I. I feel somewhat comfortable with her so far away. Cousins, Nick and Krisjana are in the same apartments. What a blessing that is. It would have been much harder to leave her there had they not been there. I thank them both in advance for all the love they have and will continue to share....they are just that type. Alena is #4 of the kids to "move on"...as wonderful as it is, it is not so wonderful. ....tears of joy. Alena is our little peace maker - she is full of love, giving, sharing, laughter - ........and we LOVE our little Alena Janae! Wishing you the one of your best of times! FOREVER SMILES!

Marcy's Bridal Shower

Saturday we all had such a great time at Marcy's Bridal Shower. Love hearing her laughter and know she and Brandon will have many days filled with laughs and smiles. They both have such a sense of humor. Her sister Melissa was such a gracious hostess and invited so many to clutter her beautiful home. Marcy we love you and appreciate you being apart of the family. Side Note....It is an interesting thing that my mother and daddy was the Player's home teachers and was well acquainted with her granddad. Her father's band played at Toby's and my reception and will play at Brandon and Marcy's reception I've been told. Of course Brandon and Marcy didn't know all of this until later. It's a small world....Looking forward to the many memories.

Shout Out to Torie

The past few months sharing through this blog stuff has been interesting. How much I appreciate all you young mothers that still have time to share your interests, families and YOU. Love ya back! One particular family I have enjoyed watching are the Derrick's. We shared Morenci experiences with the Derrick family years ago. The boys had left home and there was emptiness. I had spent many years in the Stake YW program and after being released was soon called to be a Sunbeam teacher. I had one little "sugars" that filled our hearts. She was there every Sunday, and many times the only child in the class. It didn't hurt that she totally loved her baby sitter, Nae Nae and I was Nae's mother. Many Sundays, she would tell me, "no, I don't want a lesson". We took walks, picked flowers, watched/listened to the creek, ate, drew on the chalk board and just enjoyed "the love". That little "sugars" is growing into a beautiful girl. Torie - thanks for being you. You are loved. This shout out is for you....Hi back! The Y is a good choice. Thank you Derricks - Love ya back!

Happy Birthday Nae Nae

Today Danae is 24. When I was 24 on March 19, 1984 around 11:00pm, our first girl Lisa Danae Skinner(LDS) joined our family. We all were very excited to have besides me another girl. Today we got to spend the day together again. Here's wishing you a happy birthday - "Just you and me kid"

FFA - Alena & KenZ

Alena and Kensey joined FFA after moving to Millennium HS. The FFA program is dedicated to make a positive difference and to develope youth to their fullest potential through leadership in an agricultural setting. As I have watched the girls experience High School, Church, personal, and FFA activities I realize (again) the importance of our youth - and they thrill me. A & K are beautiful girls inside and out. Their personal progress makes me a PROUD MOM. This past Friday, Alena and team placed 6th at State FFA competition in the livestock judging and Kensey took 1st place in the interviewing portion; career being Sports Medicine. This will allow Kensey to compete at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. They both showed their enthusiasm and humility ....you are so cool. Love and appreciate all that you do.

Nana loves her Birthday Boys...

Porter birthday was last month and Tanner TODAY....I'm so blessed! LOVE THESE LITTLE GUYS! Nana loves Tanner - Nana loves Porter. Happy Birthday Tanner.

Sugar Babies Sent in the Mail...

What a fun surprize for each of us to receive a package of Sugar Babies in the mail to announce the new arrival of a "little Brian - little Jet". Of course Nana could not be more happy to let everyone know what her order is....pink! I'm ready for a pink bundle, but will adore what we get. Can you just imagine this little blue smiley baby in pink??? ...add Jet's eyes and laugh....oh we are in for a treat.

#1 Baby getting MARRIED!

Guess what .......It's official!! Brandon and Marcy are getting married. Welcome to the Skinner Family Marcy - we are so happy. This is the only picture I have - This is just the start of many "girl's time out".

About 12 years ago I worked in the Stake Young Women Presidency with these wonderful ladies. The friendship/ times was so fun! I appreciated so much Carol's business knowledge (Secretary) and Karen's accomplishing personality / wit (Counselor). They taught me so much....Such great times! This weekend, after all these years, we finally got to meet up and enjoy the weekend, catching up on each other's lives; our "female heart moments". Carol and I drove to Bagdad Arizona and stayed with Thor and Karen. Friends / Sisters; we need each other!!!