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.